Lower Township to Bear by boat

Pilotage Plan: Lower Township, New Jersey to Bear, Delaware

Starting Point: Lower Township, NJ Ending Point: Bear, DE

Embarking on a journey from Lower Township, New Jersey to Bear, Delaware offers an exhilarating opportunity to traverse some of the Mid-Atlantic's hidden gems while ensuring you maintain a vigilant focus on safety. This route provides a thrilling combination of scenic vistas, historical landmarks, and safe havens along the way.

Route Overview

The journey primarily spans along the coastline, navigating through a mix of bay waters, and ultimately merging into the broader estuarine system leading to the Delaware River. This route is particularly well-suited for intermediate to advanced boaters due to tidal influences, variable weather conditions, and the need for precise navigation in certain sections.

Starting Point: Lower Township, NJ

Notable Landmarks:

• Cape May Lighthouse: Before setting sail, ensure to catch a glimpse of this historical landmark built in 1859. It’s not only a great photo opportunity but also a navigational reference.
• Bellevue State Park: Ideal for pre-departure walks along the scenic trails, helping you stretch your legs before hitting the water.

Navigational Considerations

1. Heading East: Depart from Lower Township and navigate towards the mouth of the Delaware Bay.2. Hazards: Keep an eye out for shallow areas, especially around the mouth of the bay. The tidal currents can be strong, so good judgement is critical.

Sheltering Bays

As you maneuver through the Delaware Bay, you may want to consider nearby bays for shelter if weather conditions deteriorate.:

• Brandywine Shoal: While not a bay itself, this marked navigational aid warns of depths and shoals. If conditions worsen, retreating to Cape May Harbor or the more sheltered Raccoon Creek could serve as safe havens.

Navigational Aids

The route includes several essential buoys and markers:

• Delaware Bay Shipping Lane Buoys: These will guide your passage to avoid the more trafficked shipping lanes. Pay close attention to the directional markers to maintain a safe and easily navigable course.
• Weather Aids: Continuously monitor VHF radios for real-time weather updates, especially during the summer months when storms can rapidly develop.

Points of Interest

As you cruise along the route, consider taking brief stops for fun activities:

• Reeds Beach: A peaceful, less-crowded area where you can enjoy a picnic or take a quick swim during the summer. Be cautious of shoaling areas.
• Fort Delaware State Park: Accessible by boat, the fort offers a glimpse into 19th-century military history.

Local Regulations

Keep an eye on local boating regulations which could include speed limits in certain zones, especially near marinas and residential areas. Check for any no-wake zones or special considerations in tidal marshes which are vital ecosystems.

Navigational Apps

To enhance your safety and the overall cruising experience, consider downloading some useful boating apps. Savvy Navvy is an excellent choice for navigation and route planning, but also explore:

• Navionics: For a detailed nautical chart and real-time updates on tides and currents.
• Windy: For weather forecasts to help predict changing conditions during your voyage.

Conclusion

The trip from Lower Township to Bear, DE is a delightful nautical adventure with plenty to offer, from picturesque scenery to historical stops. While it has its challenges, meticulous planning and attention to navigational aids will ensure a safe journey. Always prioritize safety and remain aware of changing conditions to fully enjoy this unique coastal experience. Safe boating!