**Pilotage Plan from Jersey City, NJ to Keyport, NJ****Departure: Jersey City, NJ** Your journey begins at the bustling waterfront of Jersey City. This area presents a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline, so make sure to take a moment to soak in the sight before embarking. The Hudson River is your pathway, but be aware of local traffic because this is a busy shipping lane and vessel interactions are frequent.**Weather Considerations:** Before setting off, check the weather conditions from reliable sources, and keep an eye on local reports for sudden changes. As you navigate, always have a backup plan should the weather become adverse. **Notable Navigation Considerations:** As you proceed down the Hudson River, observe the prominent landmarks. Watch for the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as you approach the entrance to Upper New York Bay. Along the way, you’ll be cruisin past Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty—great photo opportunities!**Shelter Bays Along the Route:** If conditions turn bad, consider heading into the Newark Bay or the Raritan Bay. Newark Bay provides a sheltered anchorage, away from the open waters, while Raritan Bay offers good options for shelter, especially at places like Keyport and Sayreville. **Points of Interest:** Stop at Liberty State Park for a leisurely walk and an open view of the harbor. Continuing to Raritan Bay, you can moor at a marina and spend time at the refreshing beaches or simply enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants overlooking the bay.**Navigational Aids:** As you chart your course, you will encounter navigational aids such as buoys and markers. Pay close attention to the buoyage system in Upper New York Bay—these yellow and green markers guide you to safe channels. **Local Restrictions and Regulations:** Adhere to the 5 mph speed limit in certain areas like the waterfront of NYC to ensure safety for all water users. Always keep a lookout for any designated no-wake zones—especially around marinas.**Preparation for Arrival at Keyport, NJ** As you inch closer to Keyport, be prepared to navigate the Raritan River’s channels carefully, keeping right to avoid shallower areas. Keyport offers a picturesque waterfront and ample docking facilities. **Marina and Shelter Information** Keyport itself has a lovely marina and waterfront restaurants where you can dock and unwind. Keyport is known for its local fishing communities, and catching a glimpse of the fishing boats can add a slice of local flavor to your trip.**Suggested Boating Apps:** For navigation and safety, I strongly recommend using savvy navvy to access detailed charts and weather conditions right from your mobile. This app will assist in plotting your route and navigating the waters proficiently. Other useful apps include Navionics for real-time information and Windy for weather forecast checks.**Conclusion** This route from Jersey City to Keyport is perfect for leisure boaters who prioritize safe navigation while still enjoying the sights. The blend of urban and natural scenery is captivating, making it a memorable trip without disregarding the essential safety measures. Always navigate cautiously, respect the marine environment, and enjoy the beauty that New Jersey's waterways offer! Safe travels!