Jersey City to Blauvelt by boat

Pilotage Plan from Jersey City, New Jersey to Blauvelt, New York

Starting Point: Jersey City, New Jersey, United States Ending Point: Blauvelt, New York, United States

Overview

This route takes you from the urban backdrop of Jersey City, navigating north along the Hudson River through scenic waterways and giving you a spectacular blend of city views, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. This pass is particularly suited for intermediate to experienced boaters, as it combines urban navigation with some areas that require attention to local conditions and boat traffic.

Route Highlights

1. Jersey City to Hoboken: As you depart from Jersey City, the iconic Manhattan skyline greets you, offering stunning views. Head across the river to Hoboken, a charming waterfront city worth a brief stop. Known for its parks and restaurants, it serves as a wonderful first stop. The relatively sheltered waters here provide a comfortable ambiance to adjust to the journey.

2. Hudson River Tide Flows: As you proceed north along the Hudson River, be mindful of the strong tidal currents, especially around the areas near the George Washington Bridge. It's crucial to check the tide charts; riding with the tide can considerably reduce travel time and enhance fuel efficiency.

3. Englewood Cliffs and Fort Lee: Continuing up the river, to starboard, you’ll encounter the picturesque towns of Englewood Cliffs and Fort Lee, where you’ll not only appreciate the lovely residential areas but also have the chance to spot the historic Fort Lee Park, where you can stretch your legs and take in the views of the Palisades.

4. George Washington Bridge: The George Washington Bridge is a real navigation landmark towering over the river. Maintain a safe distance from the bridge, keeping in mind the positioning of vessels with limited maneuverability in this area due to both the bridge structure and traffic.

5. Piermont Pier: Just past the bridge lies Piermont, a small village that's a popular stop for boaters. The Piermont Pier is an excellent place to drop anchor. Should the weather take a turn, the village offers good shelter in its marina. Don’t miss out on delicious local eateries and perhaps a walk in the nearby Piermont marshlands.

6. Tappan Zee Bridge: As you approach the Tappan Zee Bridge, maintain a lookout for the navigation buoys marking the shipping lanes. Traffic can be heavy here—stay alert and ensure you follow the Convention on the Law of the Sea. The waters can be busier with both commercial and recreational vessels.

Navigation Aids and Local Considerations

• Buoys and Markers: Pay attention to all markers set by the Coast Guard. Specifically, the red and green buoys will help in determining your safe path.
• Weather Conditions: Always check weather forecasts before you set out. Conditions along the Hudson can change rapidly, especially with afternoon thunderstorms in summer months.
• No Wake Zones: Be aware of the no-wake zones in various locations, especially near boat docks and marinas, to ensure safety for smaller vessels and swimmers.

Shelter Points

Should weather conditions change or if you face any challenges on the water, consider the following points:
• Haverstraw Bay: This large bay offers ample space to anchor and wait out bad weather. The shores are mostly residential but picturesque.
• Nyack Marina: Another convenient stop offering facilities and shelter. A great place to refuel your confidence, grab some food, and check in with friends or family.

Points of Interest

• Tarrytown: This quaint village is a historical landmark. You might want to make a stop to visit the Tarrytown Lighthouse or the nearby Kykuit estate, which boasts stunning gardens and architecture.
• Rockland Country: This area offers beautiful views of the Palisades Interstate Park—a fantastic area for hiking and observation.

Recommended Boating Apps

To ensure a smooth and safe journey, I highly recommend utilizing nautical navigation apps. Savvy Navvy is excellent for route planning and offers real-time weather updates. Other notable apps you might consider include Navionics and Windy, which provide detailed navigational charts and wind forecasts.

Conclusion

This itinerary is designed to not only provide a safe passage from Jersey City to Blauvelt but also to encourage enjoyment and exploration along the majestic Hudson River. Tread with caution, stick to your navigational planning, and take the time to enjoy the stunning views and rich history that this route has to offer. Safe travels!