Pilotage Plan: Maurice River Township, NJ to Chesapeake City, MD
Overview
Embarking on this boating journey from Maurice River Township, New Jersey to Chesapeake City, Maryland presents an exhilarating opportunity to explore beautiful waterways while navigating through notable landmarks and amidst natural beauty. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate and experienced boaters, as it can expose one to varying conditions and requires attention to navigational details.
Route Description
Starting Point: Maurice River Township, NJ
Coordinates:Long: -75.0119, Lat: 39.23345
- Departure from Maurice River Township requires careful consideration of the tides, as the Maurice River can be shallow in places. Ensure your vessel has the necessary draft clearance before setting out.
First Leg: Up the Maurice River
- Head northwest along the Maurice River and proceed to intersect with the Delaware Bay.
- Watch out for buoys marking channels; in particular, navigate the narrow passage carefully, particularly around active fishing zones.
Points of Interest:Wilson's Beach is a wonderful stop near the beginning if time permits.
Transition to Delaware Bay
- After approximately 4 nautical miles, you will reach the mouth of the Delaware Bay. This part of the route can be exposed to wind and current changes, emphasizing the need for strong seamanship skills.
- Keep an eye on the "Delaware Bay Latitude: 39.1956 N, Longitude: -75.1616 W" marker to ensure you are on course.
Rounding Cape May
- Once past the Delaware Bay entrance, head southwest towards Cape May, NJ. This area can be bustling with seasonal boat traffic, so vigilance is key.
Shelter Option:If you encounter inclement weather, you can take refuge in Cape May Harbor, which offers various facilities.
Proceeding Down the Delmarva
- After rounding Cape May, steer southeast towards the C&D Canal entrance. Although this leg is slightly longer, it provides splendid views of the coastline.
- Watch for navigational aids and shipping traffic as you enter the canal, which can have significant commercial activities.
C&D Canal
- Upon entering the C&D Canal, it's important to adhere to the speed limits and watch for sailboats, barges, and other vessels navigating this busy channel. The canal takes about an hour to traverse under normal conditions.
- The surrounding areas are stunning, with opportunities for wildlife viewing—egrets, ospreys, and other aquatic birds frequent the shoreline.
Final Leg to Chesapeake City, MD
- Upon exiting the C&D Canal, you’ll approach Chesapeake City. Pay attention as you navigate the twisty waters.
Nautical Landmark:The Chesapeake City Bridge is a prominent landmark; the height clearance must be verified if you are operating a taller boat.
Destination:Chesapeake City, MD (Coordinates: Long: -75.8952833333, Lat: 39.4866666667) offers beautiful waterfront attractions, great dining options, and charming shops.
Safety Considerations
- Tides and Currents:Be mindful of the tidal changes particularly at the entrance of the Delaware Bay and C&D Canal. Always check tide tables prior to departure.
- Weather Monitoring:Keep a close watch on weather patterns. If adverse conditions arise, utilize local bays for shelter or prepare to head to available marinas along the route.
- Navigation Aids:Use charts and GPS devices alongside reliable boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which can provide real-time updates and routing options.
- Local Regulations:Stay informed about local rules, especially regarding speed limits in the C&D Canal and areas where fishing is prohibited.
- Suggested Activities
While the primary focus is on safety and navigation, upon arrival in Chesapeake City, consider exploring the town’s rich history and enjoying a meal at a local seafood restaurant or venturing to nearby parks for a peaceful afternoon.
By following thisPilotage Plan with careful attention to navigation, safety preferences, and local attractions, boaters can relish the journey, creating lasting memories on the water. Enjoy the experience, and safe travels!
