Ithaca to Lansing by boat

Pilotage Plan: Ithaca, NY to Lansing, NY

Overview This pilotage plan outlines a scenic and safe waterborne journey from Ithaca to Lansing, NY, encompassing notable landmarks, potential hazards, and ideal shelter bays for when the weather turns. This trip is especially well-suited for recreational boaters, families, and those looking to appreciate the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

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Route Description

Starting Point: Ithaca, NY

• Coordinates: Latitude 42.4588333333, Longitude -76.5131666667
• Launch Site: The safest and most popular launch site is the Cayuga Inlet, which provides easy access to Cayuga Lake. Ensure your vessel is equipped with life jackets, a first aid kit, and essential safety equipment.

Legs of the Journey: Ithaca to Lansing

1. Departing Ithaca As you leave the bustling waterfront of Ithaca, head northeast into Cayuga Lake. Keep an eye on your charts and GPS for any submerged hazards near the Cayuga Inlet, particularly in the early morning when visibility may be reduced.

2. Navigational Aids Follow the navigational buoys that mark out the channel. The buoys are generally well maintained, allowing safe passage. - Hazards: Watch for underwater rocks and shallow areas, especially near the northern end of Cayuga Inlet. Keep your speed manageable to avoid kicking up the bottom.

3. Points of Interest Along the Route As you navigate further along, no stop is more recommended than Taughannock Falls State Park. This area features one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, with beautiful trails leading to viewing overlooks. Keep this in mind as a potential stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery, particularly if you have kids or family on-board.

4. Shelter Bays: Should inclement weather approach, the Cayuga Lake State Park located toward the mid-lake region is an excellent shelter. The bay provides ample room to anchor and wait for conditions to improve and offers picnic areas for a quick break.

5. Approaching Lansing As you steadily move toward Lansing, become more vigilant of the local boat traffic; the area can become crowded, especially during weekends. The coordinates to reach the Lansing area are: Latitude 42.5353333333, Longitude -76.5461666667.

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Local Restrictions and Regulations In Cayuga Lake, boaters must adhere to the following local regulations:

• No wake zones, particularly near marinas and river outlets entering the lake.
• The maximum speed limit is typically 5 mph within 100 feet of shorelines unless otherwise posted.
• Ensure that all required safety gear is on board and in compliance with New York State regulations.

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Safety Considerations

• Weather Monitoring: Always check marine weather forecasts before departure and keep an eye out for changing conditions. Apps such as Savvy Navvy offer excellent weather updates and navigation support.
• Traffic Awareness: Stay vigilant for other vessels and be aware of fishing activities, particularly swaths of marked fishing areas with nets.
• Night Navigation: If you plan to return after dusk, ensure your boat is equipped with proper navigation lights, as well as a well charted return route to avoid hazards.

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Conclusion This route from Ithaca to Lansing is not only navigationally friendly but offers splendid views of the lush landscapes that define the Finger Lakes region. With carefully planned stops and considerations for safety and local regulations, this trip can be both pleasurable and safe. Ideal for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to appreciate the out-of-doors, this pilotage plan has laid out everything needed for a memorable sailing experience. Enjoy your journey!