Setting sail from the serene waters of Neptune Township, New Jersey, and heading to the vibrant shores of Brooklyn, New York, this route is an exciting adventure for any cruising enthusiast. This journey of roughly 30 nautical miles will take you along picturesque coastlines, through bustling waterways, and past interesting landmarks. This plan caters to intermediate to experienced boaters with an appreciation for both safety and exploration.
Before casting off, take a moment to enjoy the view of the local landscape. Neptune Township is well-situated along the Shark River, providing a calm channel to begin your journey. Make sure your vessel is seaworthy and you've conducted a thorough pre-departure checklist focusing on safety equipment, navigation tools, and communication devices.
1. Depart from Shark River - Exit the Shark River by heading southeast. - Stay mindful of local traffic, including fishing boats and recreational watercraft prevalent in this area.
2. Navigating Horse Shoe Cove and the Atlantic Ocean - Once you exit the Shark River, make your way south along the coast toward Asbury Park. - Horse Shoe Cove is a nice spot for a preliminary stop if you encounter rough weather. It provides good shelter from easterly winds.
3. Point Pleasant Canal - Upon reaching Point Pleasant (roughly halfway through your trip), you have the option to enter the Point Pleasant Canal for a scenic detour. This allows you to cruise through calm waters before re-entering the open seas. - While navigating, keep an eye out for local fishing activity; monitor your sonar for any obstructions.
4. Barnegat Inlet - Consider skirting around Barnegat Inlet if you wish to explore entrancing Barnegat Bay, with its friendly marinas and quaint waterfronts. This bay is another optimal choice for shelter should storms develop suddenly.
5. Proceed Toward New York Harbor - After Barnegat Bay, proceed north towards the Raritan Bay and the Ambrose Channel, heading towards Brooklyn. - Maintain a safe distance from commercial shipping lanes and watch for large tanker vessels entering and exiting New York Harbor. Hazards such as strong currents at the channel entrances should be prioritized in your navigation.
6. Brooklyn Bridge and the East River - As you approach Brooklyn, the iconic Brooklyn Bridge rises majestically in view. This is not only an essential navigational landmark but also a stunning backdrop for your journey. - Navigate the East River carefully; this area is busy with recreational and commercial traffic. Use your charts and ensure your navigation aids are tuned to avoid local tidal changes.
This pilotage plan offers an exciting, safe route from Neptune Township to Brooklyn. It includes notable stops, anchorages, and the essential navigation details every boater should consider. While safety is paramount, the attractions and scenic views of this journey make for a thrilling adventure filled with the vibrancy of the New Jersey coastline and New York’s iconic skyline. Happy cruising!