**Pilotage Plan from New London, Connecticut to Groton, Connecticut****Route Overview:**This short cruising adventure from New London to Groton, just a few nautical miles apart, is perfect for boaters looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the water while prioritizing safety. The trip provides an exceptional opportunity for novice to intermediate boaters to gain experience, while still keeping a watchful eye on safety and navigation.**Start Point: New London, CT**Your journey begins in New London, a historic seaport nestled on the shores of Long Island Sound. This bustling harbor is marked by its distinctive waterfront, with the New London Ledge Lighthouse standing watch. Before you set sail, ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, a first aid kit, and fully charged communication devices to stay in contact with marinas or other vessels.**Notable Harbors and Points of Interest:**As you depart New London, check local conditions and ensure that the weather is suitable for boating. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can find sheltered spots like:1. **Jordan Cove**: Just south of the New London Harbor Light, this small cove can provide a good refuge in inclement weather. This area also holds some interesting historical sites, such as the remnants of old shipbuilding firms.2. **Whiting Harbor**: Located a bit further south past the entrance to Fishers Island Sound, Whiting Harbor is another excellent spot to find shelter. It’s calm and often has moorings available.**Navigation Aids and Considerations:**As you navigate your way from New London to Groton, keep these important aids and considerations in mind:- **Navigation Aids**: Look for buoys and markers along the route. New London Harbor is well-marked, but stay vigilant for any unmarked floating obstacles, especially closer to shore.- **Current and Tides**: Be aware of the tidal currents which can be quite strong in this section of the Long Island Sound. Consulting tide charts will help you choose the best time to leave, typically around slack water to make the journey smoother.- **Local Regulations**: While both New London and Groton have their specific harbor rules, always adhere to the boating regulations of Connecticut. This includes speed limits in certain zones and areas designated as no-wake zones, especially around moored boats and in channels.**The Route:**Your route will primarily follow a southeast trajectory along the coastline. To make the most of your journey:1. **Depart from New London Harbor**: As you head out, pass by the historic New London Ledge Lighthouse. Make sure to stay aware of boats entering or leaving the harbor.2. **Sailing Towards Groton**: Maintain a course of roughly 170° to follow the coastline towards Groton. Ensure you have your navigation chart and appropriate apps ready, such as Savvy Navvy, which is fantastic for real-time data and route planning. 3. **Watch for Local Traffic**: You might encounter commercial vessels moving through this busy maritime area. Keep a lookout for ferries operating between New London and Long Island, and maintain a safe distance.4. **Arriving in Groton**: As you near Groton, you’ll find the scenic views of the Thames River appealing. The Groton Utilities Water Filtration Facility and the U.S. Naval Submarine Base are notable landmarks, but your primary focus should remain on safe docking practices within the harbor.**Conclusion:**Your trip from New London to Groton offers a manageable range for boaters looking to embrace the charm of Connecticut’s shoreline, while enjoying the sights and sounds of coastal life. Don't forget to explore the local attractions in Groton once you dock—there's plenty to see, from parks to eateries.Safety should always be at the forefront of your boating adventures. As always, practice good seamanship, stay aware of your surroundings, and you're sure to enjoy a delightful day on the water. Happy cruising!