**Pilotage Plan: Mattituck, NY to Riverhead, NY****Route Overview:**This scenic trip takes you from Mattituck to Riverhead, traversing through the enchanting waters of Long Island’s North Fork. This route is ideal for recreational boaters seeking a delightful blend of safety and adventure, providing ample opportunities for exploration along the way.**Starting Point:**- **Departure:** Mattituck, NY (Coordinates: 40.9812° N, -72.5282° W)- **Notable Features:** Mattituck is well-known for its marina facilities and picturesque views. Before departure, ensure your vessel is fully equipped for safety—life vests, flares, a first-aid kit, and a functioning VHF radio are essential.**Navigational Considerations:**- Pay close attention to the tide charts and current conditions as you depart from Mattituck Inlet. The inlet is narrow and can be challenging at low tide, where a draft of less than 4 feet is advisable.- As you leave, follow the marked channel carefully to avoid the sandy shoals that flank both sides of the inlet.**Waypoints and Points of Interest:**1. **Peconic Bay**: Upon exiting Mattituck Inlet, you'll enter the open waters of Peconic Bay. This expansive area provides stunning views, and you should keep an eye out for various recreational vessels. - **Shelter Options**: If weather conditions quickly deteriorate, Greenport Harbor to the northeast is a good refuge with services available at the marinas.2. **Southold Bay**: As you navigate towards Riverhead, consider stopping at Southold Bay. The area is famous for its charming charm, local wineries, and sweet corn stands—perfect for a leisurely afternoon. - **Activities**: Enjoy a picnic, local seafood from a nearby restaurant, or explore the Southold Lighthouse—an iconic landmark that offers a great photo opportunity.3. **Mattituck Creek**: Alternately, if strong winds or choppy waters are forecasted, venturing into Mattituck Creek can provide a calm anchorage. The creek is narrow, but the lush surroundings are scenic.**Route to Riverhead:**- Depart from Mattituck Inlet heading southwest across Peconic Bay, following the designated channel well-marked by buoys.- Make note of *Peconic River* entrance navigational aids; these are critical as you near Riverhead. The entrance can be tricky with strong currents, especially during tidal changes.**Approaching Riverhead:**- As you get closer, be aware of the traffic in the waterways, as Riverhead is a hub for recreational and fishing boats. Observe local speed limits, particularly in congested areas.- The scenic journey along the Peconic River is dotted with residential areas, parks, and the stunning surroundings of the local vineyards.- **Final Destination:** The Peconic River leads directly into Riverhead's bustling waterfront. Here, you can find ample docking options, restaurants, and attractions, including the Long Island Aquarium—a fun ending to your expedition.**Safety Tips:**- Always check weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.- Keep an eye on floating debris and seasonal fishing activity, as these can affect visibility and navigation.- Ensure you have proper documentation, including boater education certification, if needed, and adhere to local fishing regulations if you plan to fish along the route.**Recommended Apps:**- Always stay informed on navigational data; consider downloading boat navigation apps like *Savvy Navvy*, which will improve your situational awareness on the water.- Other insightful apps include *Navionics* for chart plotting and *Windy* for reliable weather updates.This journey from Mattituck to Riverhead epitomizes the charm of Long Island's waterways while prioritizing safety and enjoyment for every boater. Enjoy the journey!