**Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from New Rochelle, NY to Elizabeth, NJ****Route Overview**Embarking on a journey from New Rochelle, New York, to Elizabeth, New Jersey, offers an exciting mix of urban scenery, fascinating landmarks, and varied waterways. This trip is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who are comfortable navigating through diverse conditions. The distance between the two locations is approximately 20 nautical miles, and while the journey can be seamlessly conducted within a few hours under optimal conditions, careful planning is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.**Starting Point: New Rochelle, NY (Lat: 40.8957, Long: -73.7770)**- **Departure:** Begin your trip early in the morning to take advantage of favorable winds and to avoid late afternoon congestion.- **Marina:** Consider departing from the New Rochelle Municipal Marina, which offers a well-equipped launch and docking facilities.**Leg 1: New Rochelle to Throg's Neck**- **Estimated Distance:** 4 nautical miles- **Navigational Points of Interest:** - As you leave New Rochelle, keep an eye out for the historic **Bartow-Pell Mansion**, located in Bartow Pell Park, making for a picturesque sight. - **Navigational Aids:** Head towards the Throg’s Neck Bridge which serves as a significant navigational landmark - a clear point to gauge your heading southwest on the East River. - **Hazards:** Watch for ferry traffic as you approach the bridge, and maintain a safe distance from any commercial shipping lanes.**Shelter Options:** **Hunting Island** provides an excellent place to take shelter if the weather turns unexpectedly choppy.**Leg 2: Throg's Neck to East River (Queens)**- **Estimated Distance:** 5 nautical miles- **Navigational Points of Interest:** - At this point, the impressive skyline of NYC unfolds before you, including the iconic **Manhattan skyline** and the **United Nations building**. - **Navigational Aids:** Pay attention to buoys marking the channel next to the East River. The area has commercial traffic with ferries and tour boats; vigilance is key.- **Hazards:** Be cautious of strong tidal currents typical of the East River. **Shelter Options:** **Hells Gate**, a short distance north of the city, is a recognized spot for temporary anchorage if needed.**Leg 3: East River to Newark Bay (via Upper New York Bay)**- **Estimated Distance:** 7 nautical miles- **Navigational Points of Interest:** - You will pass by the **Statue of Liberty** and **Ellis Island**. Consider a brief detour for aerial views; many boaters find this a memorable highlight. - Keeping southward, you will also see the **Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge** in the distance.- **Hazards:** Maintain a safe distance from commercial vessels, particularly around the active shipping lanes into and out of the Port of New York and New Jersey. **Shelter Options:** The **Newark Bay** features multiple bayside options for shelter and should you need to break for an extended period, the marinas along the bay will provide excellent facilities. **Leg 4: Newark Bay to Elizabeth, NJ**- **Estimated Distance:** 2 nautical miles- **Final Approach:** - Keep an eye out for the **Elizabeth Marine Terminal** as you near your destination. This area can have increased vessel activity with various commercial traffic. - **Navigational Aids:** Various local buoys will guide you toward the Elizabeth docks, marking your final approach.**Final Destination: Elizabeth, NJ (Lat: 40.6463, Long: -74.1869)**- Upon docking, you’ll find local attractions, including various waterfront parks offering a pleasant stroll post-journey.**General Safety & Regulations:**- Always check the weather prior to departure; conditions can change quickly on the water. Use boating apps such as Savvy Navvy for real-time updates and route planning.- Be aware of local regulations concerning speed limits especially in marinas and crowded areas.- Maintain communication by having a VHF radio on board and familiarizing yourself with local channels for safety communications.This planned route strikes a beautiful balance between urban excitement and soulful serenity on the water. Remember, as you navigate from New Rochelle to Elizabeth, safety comes first, but with each landmark you pass and bay you explore, the journey transforms into a memorable adventure! Always be prepared and alert, and you’ll ensure that your trip is not just safe but enjoyable. Happy boating!