### Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, NJ to Bay Shore, NY#### Departure: Jersey City, NJYou’ll start your journey from the bustling docks of Jersey City. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear—life jackets for every passenger, a first aid kit, navigation charts, and a VHF radio. The waters can be busy, particularly with commercial traffic, so keeping a vigilant lookout is key.#### Step 1: Navigating the Hudson RiverLeaving Jersey City, you’ll head northward initially before making your way down the Hudson River. This stretch can be busy with ferry and cargo traffic, so it's essential to stay alert and maintain a proper lookout. As you travel upriver, keep an eye on the prominent Manhattan skyline—a fantastic backdrop. You might want to consider a brief stop at Liberty State Park, not merely for the stunning views of the Statue of Liberty but also for sheltered water if the winds pick up. The marina here offers amenities and a nice break from your journey.#### Step 2: Into Newark BayAs you continue south, your next notable landmark will be Newark Bay. Take care as this area can experience strong currents, especially during tidal changes. The bay also hosts the Port of Newark, a hub of shipping activity. Stay clear of large vessels, and keep an ear open for any traffic information on your VHF radio.If conditions start getting rough, the shallow coves along the bay provide some potential shelter. There are also several marinas along the waterfront if you need to dock for any reason.#### Step 3: Crossing Raritan BayAfter navigating through Newark Bay, you’ll approach Raritan Bay. As you make this crossing, expect wave action depending on wind conditions. Communicate your intentions clearly on the radio, and pay attention to navigational markers, particularly the spotted buoys marking safe channels.While crossing, take a moment to enjoy the sheer beauty of the bay—a good spot for some scenic pictures. The historic Sandy Hook is visible to your left, and depending on time, it’s a great option for a fun exploration on land—miles of tranquil beaches and hiking opportunities await.#### Step 4: Entering Great South BayUpon reaching the other side of Raritan Bay, you will find the entrance to Great South Bay. Here, the navigation becomes slightly more intricate due to shoals and shallower waters. Be vigilant about sticking to marked channels. A local favorite is Fire Island, which offers breathtaking views and lovely beaches, perfect for a lunch stop. The channel to the Fire Island Inlet is well-marked, but maintaining a map and radar is advisable.#### Step 5: Approaching Bay Shore, NYYour final approach to Bay Shore will take you along the shores of Great South Bay. As you near Bay Shore, pay attention to any local boating regulations, especially related to no-wake zones. The exit into the Bay Shore Marina is smooth, but as always, perform a controlled approach.#### Points of Interest and Shelter1. **Liberty State Park:** An ideal first stop with marinas available.2. **Sandy Hook:** Great for recreation and securing shelter from foul weather.3. **Fire Island:** A beautiful nautical escape with lots of exploration opportunities.#### Navigational Aids and Regulations- **VHF Channels:** Familiarize yourself with local channel usage. Channel 16 is for emergencies, while others are specifically designated for specific areas or traffic.- **Chart Reading:** While the route is well-marked, having a physical chart on hand or using a navigation app like Savvy Navvy will enhance your confidence as you navigate.- **Local Regulations:** Be aware of speed limits, especially in residential or heavily trafficked areas, to ensure safety for yourself and the spectators.#### ConclusionThis itinerary from Jersey City to Bay Shore offers a blend of excitement and tranquility, perfectly suited for coastal cruisers of moderate experience. You will encounter busy waterways, serene bay landscapes, and ample opportunities to connect with nature while staying safe. Happy boating!