### Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, NJ to Mantoloking, NJ#### OverviewEmbarking on a boat trip from Jersey City, New Jersey, to Mantoloking is an exhilarating journey through rich waterways, stunning coastal vistas, and diverse marine environments. This plan emphasizes safety, significant navigational points, and a few delightful stops along the route.#### Starting Point**Departure:** Jersey City, NJ **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -74.0416, 40.7026 **Destination:** Mantoloking, NJ **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -74.0538, 40.0378 ### Route Description#### Section 1: Jersey City to Upper New York Bay**Distance:** ~5 NM As you depart off the scenic waterfront of Jersey City, head southeast towards Upper New York Bay. Expect to cruise past the iconic Statue of Liberty, a must-see monument. **Navigation Aids:**- **Liberty Island**: Visible and easily identifiable.- **Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge**: A navigational landmark to keep to your starboard side as you enter the wider expanse of the bay.#### Section 2: Upper Bay to Kill Van Kull**Distance:** ~8 NM From Upper New York Bay, continue towards the Kill Van Kull strait that channels you toward the Arthur Kill. This area can have busy shipping lanes, so maintain a lookout for commercial vessels. **Hazards:**- Heavy commercial traffic. Keep a safe distance from larger vessels.- Shifting tides in this part can create substantial currents; be mindful of tidal changes.#### Section 3: Through Arthur Kill to Raritan Bay**Distance:** ~10 NM Heading south through Arthur Kill, you will navigate a series of bends and shallows. Remaining anchored in mid-channel is crucial for safety.**Navigational Aids:**- Lighted buoys mark the deep-water channel. Make sure to have your charts updated and pay attention to local navigation markings.- As you approach Raritan Bay, be on the lookout for the **Carteret Range Lights**.#### Section 4: Raritan Bay to Barnegat Bay**Distance:** ~10 NM Raritan Bay will lead you toward the mouth of Barnegat Bay, known for its stunning natural beauty and relatively calm waters. This area is ideal for relaxing or dropping anchor if the weather takes a turn.**Safe Havens:**- **Sandy Hook Bay**: It offers excellent shelter with ample anchorages. Great for a lunch stop should you need a break.- Stop at **Island Beach State Park** for a unique, scenic getaway, enjoying nature trails or sandy beaches.### Section 5: Barnegat Bay to Mantoloking**Distance:** ~10 NM As you now weave through Barnegat Bay, you’re venturing into calmer waters with shallows that provide diverse marine life. **Points of Interest:**- Notable landmarks include the **Barnegat Lighthouse**; a perfect spot to enjoy the vista.- Keep an eye peeled for **Little Egg Inlet** to your north, a sheltered spot should you need to divert for safety.### Final Approach: MantolokingAs you navigate into Mantoloking, reduce speed and ensure you respect local no-wake zones to protect the sensitive shoreline environment. **Before You Dock:**- Pay attention to local mooring regulations; areas may require permits.- Be mindful of seasonal regulations that may restrict certain activities such as fishing or crabbing. Always check the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations.### Safety Considerations- The Atlantic waters can be unpredictable. Always listen to local weather forecasts and monitor for changing conditions.- Make sure you have appropriate safety gear onboard, including life jackets for all passengers and signaling devices.- Ensure a chartplotter is on hand; navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy can assist greatly with route planning and hazards detection.### ConclusionThis journey from Jersey City to Mantoloking seamlessly combines adventure with safe, navigable waters. It is particularly suitable for coastal cruiser boats and day sailors seeking both scenic beauty and the excitement that comes with navigating New Jersey's vibrant waterways. Always prioritize safety, but don’t shy away from soaking in the beauty and richness of this coastal paradise. Enjoy your trip, and remember to embrace the water responsibly!