Long Beach Township to Jersey City by boat

Pilotage Plan: Long Beach Township, NJ to Jersey City, NJ

Overview:Embarking on this delightful journey from Long Beach Township to Jersey City offers an excellent mix of coastal cruising and navigating through urban waters. This route is suitable for experienced boaters who appreciate both the beautiful maritime and urban landscapes, but it demands attention to safety, especially due to various navigation hazards and busy waterways.

Departure Point: Long Beach Township, NJStarting your voyage amid the scenic coastal beauty of Long Beach, there are stunning views and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the serene surroundings. Make sure your vessel is stocked with all safety gear, and verify all navigational equipment before setting out.

Section 1: Long Beach Township to Barnegat Inlet

• Distance: Approximately 8 nautical miles.
• As you head north towards Barnegat Inlet, keep an eye on the local weather conditions; coastal winds can shift suddenly, and shallow waters abound. This stretch is an open water passage, so be vigilant for fishing boats, paddleboarders, and small vessels.
• Navigation Aids: Pay attention to navigational buoys marking safe passages along the way. The Barnegat Light Lighthouse can serve as a prominent visual reference as you approach the inlet.

Shelter Point: Barnegat BayUpon reaching Barnegat Inlet, you can seek shelter within Barnegat Bay. This expansive bay allows for several anchorage points like the protected area near Island Beach State Park, perfect for taking a respite from unpredictable weather.

Notable Stop: Barnegat Lighthouse State ParkIf time allows, consider stopping at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The lighthouse offers beautiful views and a short climb up the tower for panoramic vistas of the bay.

Section 2: Barnegat Inlet to Lavallette

• Distance: About 5 nautical miles.
• Moving into Lavallette, you’ll cruise along the peaceful shoreline. Navigational channels are well-marked, but ensure you adhere to the local speed limits, especially near residential and fishing areas.

Shelter Point: LavalletteThe Lavallette area provides excellent opportunities to anchor safely and enjoy some shore activities if desired. This picturesque seaside town has stunning beaches for a quick break during your journey.

Section 3: Lavallette to Sandy Hook Bay

• Distance: Approximately 18 nautical miles.
• After Lavallette, you’ll need to navigate the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway along the Jersey coast. The route may become crowded; stay aware of other vessels and maintain a lookout for local fishing operations.
• Navigation Aids: Follow the well-marked ICW. Frequent checkpoints include the entrance to Shrewsbury River, which later diverges toward Sandy Hook Bay.

Shelter Point: Sandy Hook BayAs you approach Sandy Hook, you are met with excellent anchorage spots. This bay can be a refuge should weather conditions deteriorate, allowing you to safely ride out a storm if necessary.

Notable Stop: Sandy Hook National ParkA perfect place to explore, featuring picturesque beaches and historical sites. Take a break, stretch your legs, walk along the beaches, or learn about the area's rich history.

Section 4: Sandy Hook Bay to Jersey City

• Distance: Approximately 12 nautical miles.
• Now heading into the urban complexity of Jersey City, you follow the Hudson River past the iconic skyline of New York. The current can be strong here, particularly during tidal changes, so plan your approach accordingly.
• Navigation Aids: The Hudson River is reinforced with numerous bouys and navigational aids. Be attentive to the various ferry services operating in this busy corridor.

Arrival Point: Jersey City, NJAs you steer into Jersey City, it’s essential to keep clear of larger vessels and commercial traffic. Pay close attention to the rules governing the navigational channels in this bustling area.

Safety Tips:

• Always don life jackets and ensure all passengers are briefed on emergency protocols.
• Monitor local weather updates frequently during your trip.
• Utilize maritime navigation apps like Navionics and savvy navvy to support your route planning and navigation.

Conclusion:This journey from Long Beach Township to Jersey City is a thrilling exploration of both serene coastal landscapes and dynamic urban settings. You will have ample opportunities to engage with nature and history while keeping safety as a top priority. Enjoy the adventure of the voyage, taking in the sights and experiences along the way!