**Pilotage Plan from New Haven, Connecticut to Brooklyn, New York****Route Overview:**This coastal journey from New Haven to Brooklyn spans approximately 70 nautical miles, taking you through the scenic waters of Long Island Sound and into the bustling New York Harbor. This passage makes for an adventurous outing, ideal for experienced boaters looking to enjoy both the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the area, yet equipped enough to face changing weather conditions.**Section 1: Points of Interest and Shelters** - **New Haven Harbor:** Before departing, take some time to explore New Haven's waterfront, including the historic Lighthouse Point Park. This scenic spot features a charming old lighthouse and picnic areas perfect for a pre-departure meal. - **The Thimble Islands:** After leaving New Haven, a slight detour north will lead you to the Thimble Islands, an archipelago that offers stunning views and a chance for leisurely exploration. The islands feature quaint cottages and beautiful landscapes and are a fantastic place to anchor briefly, making for a great lunch stop or a swim, weather permitting. - **Black Point:** Continuing southeast, head towards Black Point, a well-known local shelter should storms arise. This area provides an anchorage with excellent holding ground, making it a reliable stop to wait out inclement weather.- **Clinton Harbor:** As you progress, consider a quick stop at Clinton. Its harbor offers amenities and restaurants, along with a welcoming waterfront atmosphere. The marina is well-equipped for fuel and other supplies.- **Guilford Harbor:** Another potential stop; Guilford offers beautiful beaches and a chance to stroll along the charming town. It’s a great place to rest and recharge before the next leg of your journey.- **Port Jefferson:** As you continue down toward Long Island's North Shore, Port Jefferson is a delightful harbor community. It has a vibrant maritime feel and offers an array of marine facilities. A great point for replenishing supplies or simply enjoying the local eateries and shops.- **Astoria, Queens:** As you approach the end of your trip, Astoria offers a slice of New York City life with cultural spots like the Museum of the Moving Image and vast parks. It's a good point to refuel and take a breath.**Section 2: Navigational Considerations** As you set sail, be attentive to the following navigational aids and considerations:- **Chart Usage:** Make sure to reference nautical charts specific to Long Island Sound to avoid hazards, including shoals and buoys. These charts will provide necessary depth soundings and mark hazards that might come into play. - **Long Island Sound Navigation:** Keep in mind that the Sound can be busy with traffic from larger vessels, ranging from ferries to commercial boats. Suitable attention to VHF radio updates and AIS information will be paramount in keeping your vessel safe. Be prepared for possible wake turbulence that could affect your smaller boat.- **Navigation Aids:** Pay attention to important markers such as the New Haven Breakwater Light and the Faulkner’s Island Lighthouse as you navigate through the Sound. They are both reliable visual cues to help with your navigation while also providing picturesque backdrops for photographs.- **Tides and Currents:** The current in the Long Island Sound can be strong, particularly near the entrances to major harbors. Calculate your departure time to be in sync with ebb and flood tides for an easier passage.**Section 3: Adhering to Regulations** - Always check the local rules and regulations for each harbor you plan to visit or pass through. This will include any local speed limits, no-wake zones, and seasonal restrictions. Be aware, for instance, that some areas may have no anchoring regulations that can prevent you from stopping.- Furthermore, the waters around New York are busy and require adherence to COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). Ensure your navigation lights are functional and keep a lookout for commercial vessels.**Conclusion:** This trip from New Haven to Brooklyn offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and urban exploration. It's well-suited for experienced boaters who appreciate the tranquility of coastal navigation while having the expertise to handle sudden changes in weather. Emphasizing safety with ample opportunities for shelter and exploration, this pilotage plan equips you to enjoy a safe, memorable journey.**Recommended Boating Apps:**For navigation assistance and real-time weather updates, consider using:- **Savvy Navvy:** An intuitive tool that provides easy navigation planning and tracking.- **Navionics:** Known for its comprehensive marine maps and charts.- **Windy:** Great for weather forecasting and tracking sea conditions.Make diligent preparations and have a wonderful trip! Safe sailing!