Pilotage Plan: Hull, Massachusetts to Beverly, Massachusetts
Route Overview:Embarking on a journey from the picturesque Hull, Massachusetts, to the charming coastal town of Beverly, MA, is an exciting venture for both novice and seasoned boaters. This route offers stunning coastal views, the opportunity to witness wildlife, and access to excellent anchorages. The overall distance is about 14 nautical miles, and the trip can be comfortably completed in a few hours, making it an ideal day trip.
Sections of the Route:
1. Departure from Hull, MA
Starting at Hull, you'll depart from the Hull Gut, navigating through the vast stretch of the Atlantic Ocean. The Hull Gut is a narrow passage; it’s crucial to be mindful of the tidal currents, particularly during times of peak flow. Smart navigators will check tide tables prior to departure, as currents can run 2-3 knots.
Points of Interest:
- Nantasket Beach: A perfect spot to stop for a stroll or a quick swim before setting off. It's known for its lively summer atmosphere and beautiful sandy stretches.
2. Head towards Scituate
As you start your journey, steer northeast, keeping Scituate Harbor to your port side. Pay attention to the offshore shoals and rocks in this area, particularly when navigating the changing tides.
Hazards:
- Be wary of the “Scituate Light” - the lighthouse can help with your bearings, but the approach to Scituate has shallow areas that need to be navigated with care.
Shelter Options:
- Scituate Harbor: This is a good spot to seek shelter if weather conditions deteriorate. The harbor offers multiple mooring options and local amenities.
3. Navigating to Cohasset
Continuing northward, you’ll pass Cohasset, where you can appreciate the stunning coastal landscape characterized by rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. Here, you should be attentive to local fishing boats and static fishing gear in the waters, as the area is known for its lobster traps.
4. Approaching Hingham
As you continue on, you will enter the Bay at Hingham. There is significant boating activity in this area, so keep a lookout for navigation buoys marking shallow waters.
Points of Interest:
- World’s End: A notable landmark, this beautiful park offers trails and vistas over Hingham Bay. If time allows, you might want to anchor for a picnic.
Shelter:
- Hingham Harbor: Another excellent option for seeking shelter, Hingham Harbor has facilities and restaurants for a bite to eat if you plan for a longer stop.
5. Heading towards Salem
After leaving Hingham, set a course for Salem, keeping an eye out for Happy Hollow and the marinas in this area. Salem is rich in maritime history, so consider a brief detour into its harbor for a bit of education and exploration.
Hazards:
- The infamous “Devil’s Bank” is in the vicinity, marked by navigational buoys. Exercise caution to avoid grounding.
6. Final Approach to Beverly
As you head to Beverly, you’ll navigate through the waters of Salem Sound. The water in this area can be subject to strong tidal currents, making it essential to check tidal information.
Points of Interest:
- Cove Beach & Endicott Park: These are beautiful areas to explore. If you have family on board, they’ll enjoy the park’s amenities.
Shelter Considerations:
- Beverly Harbor: A secure and amenity-rich harbor that can accommodate transient boaters.
Navigational Aids & Regulations
- Be sure to keep your Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) radio on channel 14 and monitor for local traffic updates.
- Familiarize yourself with the navigation aids along the route. The most critical are the buoys marking the channels in Hingham, Salem, and Beverly.
- Adhere to local speed limits, especially around residential areas and in the vicinity of marinas.
Conclusion
This route from Hull to Beverly is perfect for boaters looking for a scenic getaway filled with opportunities for exploration, dining, and natural beauty. A steady hand on the wheel, awareness of your surroundings, and a sound mind will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
For navigational assistance, I recommend using Savvy Navvy, Navionics, or C-Map to keep your journey efficient and safe. Happy boating!
