### Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, NJ to Rye, NYThis trip from Jersey City to Rye is an exciting venture through a blend of bustling urban scenery, scenic waterfronts, and tranquil bays. It is particularly suitable for experienced boaters looking for a combination of safe navigation, opportunities to explore local attractions, and beautiful vistas. Below, you’ll find a detailed pilotage plan focusing on safety while highlighting points of interest along this urban-to-suburban route.#### Route OverviewThe journey spans approximately 22 nautical miles, ideally taken over a half-day to allow time for leisure and exploration. The route involves navigating through the Hudson River, with a transition into Long Island Sound before reaching Rye.#### Starting Point: Jersey City, NJ- **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -74.041634, 40.702606- **Departure Consideration:** It’s essential to check on tides and currents in the Hudson River as they can influence your start. Aim for a departure during a favorable current.#### Navigational Aids and HazardsAs you head north from Jersey City:- **Navigation Aids:** Keep an eye on Hudson River Buoys—especially B32 (to help you navigate around submerged hazards) and the famous Statue of Liberty, which is an excellent visual reference.- **Hazards:** Be mindful of ferry routes in Upper New York Bay and avoid tightly packed areas around the commercial port. The tidal currents can also be strong, particularly in the vicinity of the George Washington Bridge.#### Sheltering Bays- **Haverstraw Bay** (along the route): This large bay is a great stop if the weather turns foul. It’s wide and offers good depths, making it a safe harbor with amenities. The nearby town has lovely eateries and parks for a brisk walk. #### Points of Interest- **Liberty State Park:** A fantastic place to anchor and enjoy views of the statue up close. Visitors can explore the park's paths, historic sites, or enjoy a picnic. - **Yonkers Waterfront:** Before you reach Rye, consider stopping at the Yonkers Waterfront, where you can find restaurants and charming little shops, perfect for a meal break.#### Transitioning to Long Island SoundAs you navigate north and approach Tarrytown:- **Important Navigational Aids:** Pay attention to Tarrytown Light (a good visual marker) and the numerous buoys that guide you well into Long Island Sound.- **Local Restrictions:** Keep informed about any local fishing or anchoring restrictions in the area, as nearby marinas may have specific guidelines. #### Final Approach to Rye, NYThe last leg leads you smoothly into Long Island Sound, where boat traffic can increase:- **Buoys & Markers:** Be on the lookout for the various navigational buoys marking the way into the harbor. Ensure you stay outside of restricted channels, as some areas are heavily trafficked by commercial vessels. #### Destination: Rye, NY- **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -73.697717, 40.940667- **Arrival Consideration:** Once you arrive, Rye offers several amenities including marina facilities, restaurants, and parks like Playland Park, a historic amusement park that might add a fun twist to your trip.### Safety Considerations- **Weather Monitoring:** Keep a close watch on the weather. Apps like Savvy Navvy are invaluable for real-time data and navigation assistance.- **Communication Equipment:** Ensure that you have a VHF radio on board and familiarize yourself with local channels for emergency updates.- **Life Safety Gear:** All aboard should be wearing life jackets where appropriate, and check that all safety equipment is operational.This route is perfect for experienced boaters seeking both a challenging but manageable journey, rewarding views, and potential stops for fun activities—always keeping safety at the forefront. Make the most of it, enjoy the sights, and have a fabulous time out on the water!