Menemsha to Scituate by boat

Pilotage Plan: Menemsha, MA to Scituate, MA

Overview
This journey will take you from the serene waters of Menemsha, located on Martha's Vineyard, to the coastal charm of Scituate. This route is ideal for skilled boaters who enjoy a mix of peaceful coastal navigation along with a few open water stretches. You'll encounter beautiful landmarks, safe anchorages, and ample opportunities for activities along the way.

Starting Point: Menemsha, MA
Begin your voyage in Menemsha, known for its picturesque sunset views and quaint fishing community. Before setting out, be sure to check the local weather forecasts, as conditions can shift rapidly in New England waters.

Route Planning

1. Heading Out of Menemsha Harbor:

• As you depart, navigate carefully out of the harbor, avoiding the shallow waters, particularly near the entrance. Use the navigation aids, such as the Menemsha Harbor Light, to steer you safely.

1. North toward Cuttyhunk Island:

• After exiting Menemsha, head towards Cuttyhunk Island. This is a great first leg of your journey, with good shelter if the weather turns rough. The beaches here are lovely, and the island has some great walking paths.

Hazard Note: Stay alert for fishing boats and local traffic, especially as Cuttyhunk serves as a popular fishing spot.

3. Crossing Buzzards Bay:

• After navigating around Cuttyhunk, you’ll cross Buzzards Bay. This stretch is more open, and it can be subject to the wind and chop, so a suitable boat for handling open waters is recommended. Maintain a lookout for navigation aids like the Buzzards Bay Lighthouse.

3. Entering the South River:

• As you proceed, you'll enter the South River towards Duxbury. This area features beautiful scenery and recreational spots. It's advised to watch for tidal currents that can be tricky and affect your navigation.

3. Shelter and Activities at Duxbury Bay:

• Duxbury Bay is an excellent place to take a breather. This sheltered bay is suitable for swimming and appreciating the local wildlife; it offers ample opportunities for kayak excursions or just relaxing on the boat.

3. Navigating to Scituate:

• From Duxbury, continue along the coastline toward Scituate. This is a delightful stretch where you can see classic New England coastal architecture and possibly spot sea turtles!

Important Landmarks:
Duxbury Beach: A pristine barrier beach ideal for a brief stop.
Scituate Lighthouse: The iconic lighthouse marks the entrance to Scituate Harbor and is an essential point of interest.

Navigational Aids:
Pay close attention to the following navigational aids:
Bouys and Markers: Carefully follow the channel markers as you navigate the coastal waters to avoid shallows.
Scituate Harbor Entrance: The harbor can be narrow and busy, particularly during high seasons. Always heed posted local regulations and be cautious of commercial vessels.

Local Regulations:

• Be aware of fishing regulations in both state and federal waters. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and adhere to catch limits.
• Always check for any local boating advisories or restrictions, especially when approaching harbors.

Apps and Resources:
To ensure a safe and navigable trip, consider utilizing the following apps:
Savvy Navvy: A great resource for route planning, real-time weather updates, and tide information.
Navionics: For detailed nautical charts and community reports.
Marine traffic appsto monitor vessel traffic in crowded areas.

Conclusion
This route from Menemsha to Scituate is perfect for boaters looking for a beautiful yet challenging passage that offers both adventure and safety. With the right preparation, knowledgeable use of navigational aids, and the awareness of local regulations, you can enjoy a memorable journey along the stunning New England coastline. Safe travels!