### Pilotage Plan: New Haven, Connecticut to New York, New York#### Overview This route from New Haven to New York City offers a blend of coastal beauty, historical landmarks, and bustling harbor waters. Suitable for experienced boaters and those seeking a scenic journey, this trip demands attention to detail regarding navigational aids, local regulations, and weather conditions. We’ll ensure safety while enjoying the splendid sights along the way.---#### Route Highlights**Starting Point: New Haven, CT** New Haven sits on the northern shore of Long Island Sound, offering a rich maritime history and several recreational options including the scenic West Haven Beach. Before you set off, ensure your vessel is well-prepared with necessary safety gear, sound signaling devices, and navigational tools.**Shelters Along the Route:** - **West Haven:** Just south of New Haven, this area has pockets of sheltered waters ideal for a quick stop.- **Milford Harbor:** As you navigate southwest, Milford provides a nice stopping point with amenities and protection from prevailing winds.- **Bridgeport Harbor:** A large, well-protected area ideal for shelter. It's a bustling urban harbor with services for boaters, including fuel and provisioning.---#### Points of Interest- **The Lighthouse at Stratford Point:** An iconic landmark marking the entrance to the Housatonic River, offering great photo opportunities.- **The Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport:** If you’re traveling with family, consider a short detour into Bridgeport for some time at this small, charming zoo.- **Gorham’s Pond:** A hidden beauty just off the Connecticut coast, perfect for a peaceful picnic or relaxed fishing. ---#### Navigational Considerations1. **Navigational Aids:** Pay close attention to the USCG navigation markers along the Way, particularly the lighted buoys that mark key channel turns and hazards, like shoals and rocks. Key aids to note include: - The Stratford Point Light - The buoys marking the entrance to safe harbors.2. **Local Regulations:** Be sure to follow local speed zones, especially as you near populated areas and marinas. Maintain a safe distance from other vessels, particularly fishing boats which may have lines in the water.3. **Weather Info:** Check local conditions prior to leaving and along the way. Sudden weather changes can occur, so keep an eye on forecasts. Having apps such as **Savvy Navvy** for marine weather updates is invaluable for real-time navigational data and weather alerts.---#### The Route1. **Departure from New Haven:** Set a course to head southwest, ensuring you stay clear of the shallows around the harbor entrance. Enjoy the coastal views as you cruise along the shoreline.2. **Housatonic River and Milford Point:** Passing by the mouth of the Housatonic River, be cautious of the current. Keep clear as it can be quite strong, especially after heavy rain. The scenic vistas around Milford Point offer great photo opportunities.3. **Bridgeport to Norwalk:** This section of the journey is marked with both commercial and recreational traffic, so remain attentive. As you transition past Bridgeport, look for the major navigation aids to help maintain your course, particularly near the busy Bridgeport harbor.4. **Entering Norwalk:** Before reaching Norwalk, you’ll encounter some small islands. This area is popular for day anchors but always check local regulations regarding anchoring to avoid fines or penalties.5. **Final Approach to New York:** As you approach New York City, expect heavier vessel traffic. Yale your vessel’s speed and be prepared for the impressive skyline. Stay within navigational channels and keep right unless overtaking another vessel.---#### Perfect for… This route is particularly well-suited for seasoned boaters who appreciate the need for vigilance in busy harbors while enjoying the exceptionally scenic Connecticut coastline. Whether you’re on a leisurely day trip or participating in a longer cruise, the blend of natural beauty and urban excitement makes this a memorable journey.Safety is paramount, so ensure you have life jackets for all aboard, adhere strictly to navigational markers, and stay informed on weather updates. With the right preparations, the trip from New Haven to New York City promises adventure and scenic charm. Happy cruising!