Jamestown to Southold by boat

Pilotage Plan: Jamestown, Rhode Island to Southold, New York

Introduction:
Embarking on a boat trip from Jamestown, Rhode Island to Southold, New York is a delightful way to experience the natural beauty of the North East coast. This route offers a variety of scenic views, potential wildlife sightings, and charming stops along the way, making it not just a safe passage, but an enjoyable journey for both novice and experienced boaters alike.

Route Overview:
The journey covers approximately 50 nautical miles, taking you across the calm waters of Narragansett Bay, through the Long Island Sound, and into the picturesque eastern point of Long Island.

Departure Point: Jamestown, Rhode Island
Coordinates:Latitude 41.50525, Longitude -71.3828333333333.

• Begin your adventure from Jamestown, known for its stunning coastal scenery and friendly marina. You can fuel up here and pick up any last-minute provisions to make your trip smooth.

Planning the Voyage:

1. Initial Course:

• Track a direct course south from Jamestown through Narragansett Bay. Make sure to keep an eye on the local weather conditions, especially during late afternoon as storms can develop quickly.

1. Key Navigation Aids:

• Pay attention to the Block Island Sound Light, which is a critical navigational point that guides sailors through the outer edge of the sound.
• Approach Sakonnet Pointcarefully, as it can be a tricky area with significant currents.

Shelter Points and Landmarks:
Newport, RI:Ideal for a first stop and approximately 10 nautical miles from Jamestown. Newport is famous for its vibrant sailing culture. Here, you can explore the historic mansions or enjoy a meal at one of the many seaside restaurants.

Brenton Cove:Just off the coast from Newport, this sheltered cove can provide a safe haven should the weather turn. It's a peaceful anchorage surrounded by beautiful shorelines.

Quonset Point:As you continue southeast, this area offers some industrial sights but is nevertheless a landmark worth observing, especially if you're into maritime infrastructure.

West Passage to East Passage:Proceeding through the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, stay aware of the naval presence, including the Newport Naval Base. Maintain a safe distance from any military vessels and obey any local traffic regulations.

3. Entering Long Island Sound:

• Once you navigate past the south entrance of the Bay, you will find yourself in Long Island Sound. Keep a good lookout for commercial traffic as well as fishing vessels. It’s highly recommended to use your charts and verify the positions of any underwater obstructions while in this busy waterway.

Notable Wildlife and Points of Interest:

• While transiting through the sound, enjoy the captivating views of lighthouses and the chance to see seals or dolphins playing in the waters.
• As you head towards the North Fork of Long Island, consider a stop in Mattituck, where quaint shops and beautiful vineyards await. It’s a fantastic spot for those who enjoy gastronomy and local produce.

Final Approach to Southold, New York:

• Your final leg towards Southold involves navigating through the Peconic Bay. Make sure to watch for changes in water depth as you approach the bay's various fingers.
• Look for the Southold Town Beachas a reference point before landing at Southold’s marina. This area can be busier, especially during the summer months, so watch out for recreational boating traffic.

Safety Considerations:

• Always check up-to-date weather forecasts and be prepared to alter your plans should conditions become unfavorable.
• Keep up with local regulations regarding speed limits and no-wake zones, especially near marinas and populated beaches.
• It’s also wise to have navigation aids handy like marine charts, a compass, and navigation apps such as savvy navvy, which helps monitor your course in real-time.

Conclusion:
This journey from Jamestown to Southold merges vibrant coastal culture with natural beauty while prioritizing safety. It's perfect for both recreational boaters looking to explore and seasoned mariners who appreciate beautiful seascapes along with measures to stay secure. With these guidelines and landmarks in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting memorable experiences awaiting you on this journey. Happy sailing!