Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, NJ to Sea Bright, NJ
Starting Point: Jersey City, NJ
Coordinates: Long -74.041634057384, Lat 40.702606315108
Your journey begins in the bustling waters near Jersey City, which offers a lively harbor with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. As you prepare to set sail, familiarize yourself with the local marinas, choosing one that fits your needs for fuel and provisions.
Route Overview
Your course will take you through a mix of urbanized waterfront, serene bay scenery, and dynamic estuarine waters. The journey spans roughly 30 nautical miles, and depending on your vessel's speed, expect to be on the water for about 4-6 hours, factoring in any pauses or detours along the route.
Leg 1: Jersey City to Upper New York Bay
As you depart, steer towards the Upper New York Bay, passing the Statue of Liberty to starboard. This iconic landmark is a moment to appreciate and perhaps even snap a few photos as you glide by. Be aware of the ferry traffic; they can be large and swift, making it crucial to maintain a safe distance.
Hazards & Navigation Aids:
Pay attention to the numerous buoys marking navigable channels. The tidal currents here can be strong, particularly in the Hudson River, so plan your course accordingly and consider tides when leaving.
Leg 2: New York Harbor to Sandy Hook Bay
As you leave the city skyline behind, navigate toward Sandy Hook Bay via the Lower New York Bay. This section will lead you through a busy shipping lane, where large vessels transit regularly. Keep an eye on your chart plotter and make good use of navigation aids like the Ambrose Channel Light and Sandy Hook light.
Shelter Spot:
If conditions worsen, Sandy Hook Bay serves as an excellent refuge. It's a wide expanse of water with several small inlets. The beach area is great to stretch your legs, and during off-season, you may even spot some wildlife.
Leg 3: Sandy Hook Bay to Shrewsbury River Inlet
Upon reaching Sandy Hook, you can pop into the protected Shrewsbury River Inlet. This area is known for its tranquil estuary, where you can find an array of local wildlife, especially during migratory seasons. The inlet opens up to a variety of navigational opportunities with close access to fun attractions like Monmouth Beach and local eateries renowned for fresh seafood.
Important Navigation Considerations:
Pay heed to local regulations regarding speed limits, especially in the Shrewsbury River area, which can be sensitive to wake impact on the fragile shoreline ecosystem. Watch out for fishing boats, as this area tends to be a popular spot for recreational fishing.
Leg 4: Approach to Sea Bright
As you make your approach to Sea Bright, follow the New Jersey Intracoastal Waterway to ensure a smoother ride and protection from choppy seas. You'll be pleased to find the mouth of the river provides stunning views as you close in on your destination, characterized by charming beachfront homes and the local yacht basin.
Final Destination: Sea Bright, NJ
Coordinates: Long -73.9755833333, Lat 40.3586666667
Upon arrival in Sea Bright, you can dock at one of the local marinas or the public boat ramp if you're looking for a more rustic experience. The waterfront area offers a delightful blend of local shops, fine dining, and plenty of opportunities for beach activities.
Conclusion
This route from Jersey City to Sea Bright is a delightful blend of urban adventure and serene natural beauty, perfect for seasoned boaters seeking both leisure and excitement. Ensure that your safety equipment is checked and life jackets are at hand for all passengers. Also, keep your onboard communication devices charged and consider using boating apps, like savvy navvy, to enhance your navigational experience and stay updated on weather changes.
Enjoy your journey, respect the water’s power, and most importantly, have fun out there!