**Pilotage Plan: Jersey City, New Jersey, to Town of Mamaroneck, New York**Welcome aboard! Get ready for a thrilling yet safe journey from Jersey City to Mamaroneck, where the scenic waterways are brimming with opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. This route is perfect for recreational boaters, particularly those with moderate cruising experience, looking for a blend of natural beauty, rich maritime history, and safe anchorages should conditions change unexpectedly.### Route OverviewOur journey begins in the bustling waters of the Hudson River, taking us northward along this iconic waterway, before transitioning eastward into the picturesque Long Island Sound. Throughout the trip, we’ll navigate past bustling cities, serene waterfront vistas, and charming coastal towns.### Leg 1: Departing Jersey City**Start Point:** Jersey City, NJ **Coordinates:** 40.702606, -74.041634As you pull away from Jersey City, keep an eye on the Upper New York Bay. The skyline of Manhattan provides a stunning backdrop, but stay alert for commercial vessel traffic, as this area is a busy maritime thoroughfare. Prepare to transit around the southern tip of Governors Island, paying close attention to the marked shipping channels. Make sure to note the navigational aids, including buoys and channel markers, which will guide your way. **Point of Interest:** Liberty State Park offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Consider a brief cruise past; while tourism is great, remember to maintain a respectful distance, especially in busy periods.### Leg 2: Up the Hudson RiverAs you continue north along the Hudson River, you’ll experience the change in scenery from urban landscapes to more open vistas. This stretch can be quite busy with boat traffic but is marked clearly with navigation aids. **Hazards:** Be cautious of tidal currents, especially around the George Washington Bridge. Check tidal charts before departure to time your journey favorably.**Notable Landmarks:** The Tappan Zee Bridge offers a majestic view. While it’s a vital transport link, do watch for vessels maneuvering in this area.### Leg 3: Transition to Long Island SoundUpon reaching the Haverstraw Bay, this is a good point to review weather conditions and ensure you have a plan should the weather worsen. The bay is spacious and provides ample opportunity to find shelter if needed.Follow the river further upstream, and as you pass the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, look for the Croton Point Park—a lovely spot that offers trails and impressive views along the shore. ### Leg 4: Navigating to MamaroneckMaking the turn eastward from the Hudson River into Long Island Sound, aim for the Mamaroneck River entrance. The waters may become more challenging here, especially in inclement weather, so always keep your eyes on local nautical charts to stay updated regarding any local hazards or shifting sandbanks.Upon arrival at Mamaroneck, the harbor is well-marked and has designated mooring fields. ### Bays and Shelters- **Haverstraw Bay:** A preferable spot to take shelter — spacious and removed from heavy current areas.- **Mamaroneck Harbor:** Upon entry, this is a reliable location to dock and explore or stay overnight, ensuring you’re safe from storm surges and wind.### Navigational Aids and Regulations- **Navigational Aids:** Pay close attention to markers and buoys, particularly in the transitions from the Hudson to Long Island Sound. - **Local Regulations:** Be mindful of the speed limits in constricted areas and the designated no-wake zones throughout Mamaroneck Harbor. Also, watch for fishing zones, as they are strictly enforced.### Apps to Have OnboardBefore you embark, ensure you download revered boating apps like **savvy navvy**, which offers comprehensive route planning, weather updates, and navigational charts. Other useful applications to consider include:- **Navionics:** For chart plotting and local depth information.- **Windy:** To stay updated on weather conditions.- **Coast Guard App:** For access to crucial safety information and notifications.This route from Jersey City to Mamaroneck is not just a means of transit but a delightful exploration of New York’s scenic waterways. Prioritize your safety, heeding all navigational aids and local regulations, and enjoy everything this journey has to offer! Happy boating!