**Pilotage Plan: Monmouth Beach, NJ to New York, NY****Starting Point:** Monmouth Beach, NJ, US **Ending Point:** New York, NY, US**Overview:**This journey from Monmouth Beach to New York City presents a mix of picturesque coastal views, bustling cityscapes, and various navigational challenges that make it both exciting and suitable for seasoned boaters and adventurous weekenders alike. You'll navigate through significant waterways while absorbing the vibrant maritime culture along the Hudson River.### Route Description**1. Departure from Monmouth Beach** Starting from Monmouth Beach, your route will take you eastward into the Shrewsbury River, known for its sheltered waters. Ensure that your navigational equipment is calibrated, as this area may have shallow spots. Look out for local fishermen, especially during peak seasons as they can provide additional real-time information about water conditions.**2. Navigation to Sandy Hook Bay** Follow the Shrewsbury River as it opens up into Sandy Hook Bay. This is a great spot to drop anchor if conditions worsen, offering protection from winds that may whip through the open waters. Sandy Hook itself features nice beaches and the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse, an excellent stop for a leisurely exploration.### Points of Interest Along the Route: - **Sandy Hook Lighthouse:** The oldest lighthouse still in operation in the U.S., providing a rich historical experience.- **Fort Hancock:** Explore the remnants of this coastal defense fort, dating back to the Civil War.**3. Passage through Upper New York Bay** Leaving Sandy Hook, you’ll navigate into the Upper New York Bay. Be mindful of the busy shipping lanes, especially as you approach the major ports of Elizabeth and Newark. Keep an eye out for large vessels and use your AIS (Automatic Identification System) to track maritime traffic in real-time. **4. Circumnavigating Liberty State Park** As you make your way toward Manhattan, pass by Liberty State Park where you can see the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in the distance. If time allows, consider stopping here for a quick dock at the Liberty State Park Marina – it’s a perfect opportunity for photographs and a tour of the area.**5. Entering the Hudson River** From Liberty State Park, you’ll transition into the Hudson River. This stretch offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s vital to maintain regular communication with the VHF radio channels, especially Channel 16, to stay informed about any traffic advisories and vessel movements. ### Navigational Aids and Precautions:- **Lighthouses:** Pay attention to the various lighthouses such as Sandy Hook and the lighthouses around lower Manhattan.- **Markers:** Keep an eye on the navigation markers indicating ferry lanes and commercial shipping routes. Heed information regarding the Staten Island Ferry as it can pose risks given its size and operational patterns.### Local Regulations:- Be aware of the no-wake zones, particularly around Liberty State Park where boats are prohibited from creating excessive waves that can impact the park's shoreline.- Understand the environmental regulations within the waters of NY Harbor, and do not discharge waste or pollute.### Emergency Shelter Opportunities:- **Sandy Hook Bay:** As mentioned earlier, a safe harbor in an unexpected storm.- **Liberty State Park Marina:** Easily accessible and well-equipped should you need a place to dock temporarily.### Conclusion: This route from Monmouth Beach to New York City is an incredible journey that blends the thrill of open waterways with the allure of urban exploration. It's perfectly suited for seasoned cruisers looking for a manageable day trip or weekend getaway, as well as novice boaters eager to absorb the maritime experience. Make sure to prepare adequately by checking weather conditions, ensuring safety equipment is on board, and utilizing reliable navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy and Navionics for real-time tracking and planning. Above all, enjoy the breathtaking views, rich history, and vibrant culture along your journey!