Pilotage Plan: Middletown Township, NJ to Oceanside, NY
Starting Point: Middletown Township, NJ
The journey begins in the tranquil waters of Middletown Township. As you prepare to embark, ensure your vessel is seaworthy, and all safety equipment is on board, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and a VHF radio.
Route Overview
Your destination is Oceanside, NY, a charming coastal town known for its beaches and local harbor activities. The trip will navigate through some busy waterways, but with careful planning and awareness, this route is manageable for intermediate to experienced boaters.
Leg 1: Navigating the Shrewsbury River
Start by heading east along the Shrewsbury River, a scenic route that offers protected waters ideal for a smooth start. Pay close attention to the navigation markers, particularly the red and green buoys, which mark the channel. The river is relatively narrow and winding, requiring careful handling of your vessel, especially when encountering other traffic.
Notable Points of Interest:
Count Basie Park: As you cruise, consider pulling up to the park area to stretch your legs. It’s a lovely spot with picnic areas and views of the river.
Hazards: Be mindful of occasional submerged objects and shifting sandbars during low tide.
Leg 2: Raritan Bay
Exiting the Shrewsbury River, you’ll make your way to Raritan Bay. This area can be a bit busier with recreational and commercial vessels, so maintaining a lookout for large ships is essential. The bay is generally open but can become rough in inclement weather, so keep an eye on the forecast.
Shelter Options:
If conditions turn unfavorable, consider heading to:
Sandy Hook Bay: Nestled to the northwest, it offers ample shelter and is a popular anchorage point.
Navigational Aids:
Watch for the Sandy Hook Light, a prominent lighthouse guiding mariners safely. The light is a great visual reference as you approach the open water.
Leg 3: Approaching New York Harbor
As you navigate toward the entrance of New York Harbor, the waters may get choppy, especially near the Ambrose Channel. Make sure to adhere to all navigational markers and call ahead on the VHF channel if you plan to transit through shipping lanes.
Important Considerations:
Notable Sites:
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island come into view; consider taking photos or even a small diversion if time allows.
Leg 4: Final Approach to Oceanside
Once through the harbor, set your course towards Jacob Riis Park on the Rockaway Peninsula, which is a picturesque sight as you make your way south. This area is a hotspot for beaches and local culture.
You’ll finally round the western side of the Rockaway Peninsula towards Oceanside. The entrance to Oceanside Harbor is well-marked, with clear signage and channel buoys guiding you home.
Conclusion: Destination - Oceanside, NY
Arriving in Oceanside, you are greeted by a vibrant community with beautiful beaches. Here, you can safely moor your vessel and enjoy local attractions or enjoy the serene atmosphere that this area provides.
Safety First:
Throughout your journey, always monitor weather updates and stay tuned to your local marine radio channels for potential weather alerts. Employing applications like Savvy Navvycan enhance your navigation experience, as it provides real-time updates and weather forecasts essential for safe boating.
This trip is perfect for boaters who possess some experience and are looking to explore scenic waters with a mix of relaxed cruising and bustling harbor environments. Enjoy the journey and stay safe out there!