### Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from Manasquan, New Jersey to Staten Island, New York#### OverviewThis trip from Manasquan, NJ to Staten Island, NY is an exhilarating journey, perfect for experienced sailors who appreciate beautiful coastal scenery while navigating through well-marked waters. Spanning approximately 30 nautical miles, this route combines safety with opportunities for fun and exploration. #### Departure: Manasquan, NJStart your journey at Manasquan, located at the mouth of the Manasquan River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Before you set sail, ensure that you check the weather conditions and tides as they can have a profound impact on your trip. **Important Local Hazards:**- **Manasquan Inlet:** Pay close attention to the entrance due to shifting sands and strong currents. Make sure to follow the marked channel and heed any buoys indicating shallow waters.#### En Route1. **Point Pleasant Beach:** Just a short journey from Manasquan, Point Pleasant offers well-known beaches. If you wish to take a break, consider anchoring here for a swim or a picnic. Ensure you’re aware of any local regulations regarding anchoring.2. **Barnegat Bay:** As you head north, you’ll enter Barnegat Bay, a sheltered area where you can stop for the night if needed. This bay is popular among boaters for its calm waters. It’s also a good place for fishing or enjoying local cafes along the waterfront.3. **Island Beach State Park:** On your starboard side, enjoy the natural beauty of Island Beach State Park, an unspoiled stretch of coastal land where you can take a break to hike or explore the shore.4. **Township of Toms River:** As you continue, you’ll pass near Toms River, where you can find facilities for refueling and restocking supplies if needed.5. **Shark River Inlet:** Before you get closer to the Raritan Bay, there’s the Shark River, another potential shelter spot should the weather take a turn. It can be a wise choice to check this area when strong winds are forecasted.#### Approaching Staten IslandOnce you navigate past the markers of the Raritan Bay, keep an eye out for the following important navigational aids:- **Buoys and markers:** These are critical especially near active shipping lanes. The Port of New York and New Jersey sees commercial traffic, so stay vigilant and adhere to navigation rules.- **Verrazano-Narrows Bridge:** As you approach Staten Island, you will navigate under this iconic bridge. This spectacular sight offers a landmark many mariners find memorable.**Local Regulations:**- Be mindful of the speed limits and no-wake zones as you approach populated areas. The waters around Staten Island can get congested, especially near boat ramps and marinas.- Watch for any local fishing regulations; certain spots might have restrictions during the spawning season.#### Arrival: Staten Island, NYAs you enter Staten Island, consider docking at one of the local marinas such as the Snug Harbor Marina for a comfortable place to rest. Staten Island offers a variety of activities, including visits to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal for a unique view of the Statue of Liberty or exploring local parks and historical sites.#### Summary and RecommendationsThis journey offers a perfect blend of tranquil waters, exciting landmarks, and safe harbor options in case of adverse weather conditions. It’s particularly suitable for cruising enthusiasts who are well-versed in coastal navigation. Throughout the trip, stay tuned to your VHF for current weather reports, and ensure that you maintain a proper lookout at all times.For enhanced navigation, consider using apps such as **Savvy Navvy**, which will help you plot your course while keeping an eye on tides and currents. Other useful apps include Navionics for its comprehensive mapping and Windy for accurate weather forecasts.Have a wonderful trip, stay safe, and enjoy the scenic waters along the way!