Pilotage Plan: Middletown Township, NJ to Brick Township, NJ
Embarking on a journey from Middletown Township to Brick Township offers an intriguing blend of scenic waterways, local wildlife, and the opportunity to explore diverse points of interest. This route spans approximately 15 nautical miles and is well-suited for recreational boaters, ranging from those with modest experience to seasoned skippers looking for a leisurely day on the water.
Departure: Middletown Township
Starting your voyage at Middletown Township, the first task is to ensure a thorough check of your vessel. Make sure you have all required safety equipment on board, such as life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a VHF radio. It’s also wise to check the local weather conditions and tide schedules for a smooth navigation experience.
Route Overview
- Shrewsbury River: As you depart, set your course to the Shrewsbury River, following it downstream toward its confluence with the Atlantic Ocean. The scenic beauty here is remarkable, with lush shorelines that are perfect for wildlife spotting. Be vigilant of local traffic, as this area can be busy with smaller boats, particularly on weekends.
- Navigation Aids: The Shrewsbury River is well-marked with buoys and channel markers. Pay close attention to the green and red channel markers to stay within navigable waters. The Shrewsbury River Lighthouse is an important landmark—though no longer operational as a lighthouse, it serves as an impressive piece of local history.
- Hazards: Careful navigation is essential due to shallow waters and small islands. Look out for Tullis Pond, where submerged hazards can be present, especially at lower tides. Maintaining a careful watch and adhering to the depths outlined in your nautical chart will enhance safety.
- Points of Interest: A recommended stop along the way is the Hartshorne Woods Park. Accessible from the river, it offers beautiful hiking trails and picnic spots. For onboard relaxation, you can anchor here, keeping in mind local regulation on mooring to ensure you do not obstruct small craft navigation.
- Entering Sandy Hook Bay: As you continue towards the bay, your course will lead you under the Sandy Hook Bridge. Shelter can be found here should inclement weather arise. Sandy Hook Bay provides adequate protection from winds and heavy seas, making it a preferred stopover for many boaters.
- Navigational Aids in Sandy Hook Bay: Notice the Sandy Hook Light and various buoys marking the entrance. This is a busy shipping area, so use caution when transiting, particularly being mindful of deep-draft vessels.
- Manasquan River: After navigating through Sandy Hook Bay, your course will then follow the Manasquan River southward. This is a scenic stretch where you can admire quaint riverside homes and explore spots such as the quaint village of Point Pleasant. The river is navigable and lined with additional local guides if you choose to anchor for a meal along the waterfront.
- Arriving at Brick Township: Approaching Brick Township, prepare for the final leg of your journey through tranquil waters. Look for local landmarks, including the Brick River and the scenic waterways that interlace the township. Brick Township offers ample space for anchoring if favorable conditions invite you to extend your stay.
Safety Considerations
Weather: Continuously check weather forecasts before and during your trip, as conditions can change rapidly, especially in coastal areas.
Tide Awareness: Being familiar with the tide tables will prevent unexpected grounding in shallow areas.
Speed Limits: Observe local speed regulations, particularly in no-wake zones in the rivers and around Point Pleasant, where recreational boat traffic is higher.
Recommended Apps
For navigation and safety, download applications such as:
Savvy Navvy: An excellent tool for route planning with live tide information, essential navigational aids, and weather integrations.
Navionics: Great for real-time charts and marine information.
Weather apps: Stay updated with excellent weather monitoring options.
Conclusion
This boating route from Middletown Township to Brick Township represents an exciting opportunity to explore the New Jersey coastal waters with safety as a priority. With proper planning, awareness of navigational aids, and potential stops for fun and relaxation, it creates a perfect day on the water. Enjoy the journey, taking in the beauty of the landscapes while remaining vigilant to ensure a pleasant and safe experience on your adventure.
