### Pilotage Plan: New Rochelle, NY to Peekskill, NY#### Departure: New Rochelle, NYStarting from New Rochelle, a vibrant city located along the Long Island Sound, you’ll embark on a journey that boasts both scenic beauty and useful points of interest. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is well-prepared, checking fuel levels, safety equipment, and the weather forecast specifically for marine conditions.#### Route OverviewYour route meanders up the western shore of the Long Island Sound, passing various landmarks and natural attractions. This journey is ideal for recreational boaters, weekend cruisers, and those looking to enjoy a mix of tranquility and beautiful scenery.#### Section 1: Leaving New RochelleAs you depart the busy marina of New Rochelle, be mindful of the harbor traffic and maneuver through the designated channels. The coordinates will take you northeast, parallel to the shoreline. Keep an eye out for navigational buoys and markers, particularly the “R” and “G” buoys indicating the safe passage in the channel. #### Points of Interest- **Hartsdale**: Known for its charming waterfront, consider a brief stop for lunch or to take in views.- **Whitestone Bridge**: A notable landmark in the distance, it offers stunning views of the skyline and elevates the journey's visual appeal.#### Section 2: Continuing NorthAs you proceed northward, you’ll transition into the deeper waters of the Sound. The water can get choppy, so be prepared for swells. This area is generally well-marked with navigational aids, so pay close attention to your charts and GPS while following the buoys. If the weather worsens, **Huntington Bay** offers a reliable shelter option. It is also a beautiful area to stretch your legs if conditions allow.#### Section 3: Reaching Yonkers and TarrytownUpon reaching Yonkers, keep a lookout for the impressive vantage of the Palisades cliffs. This section is also rich with recreational opportunities. You could consider docking briefly at Tarrytown, where you can explore the nearby Tarrytown Lighthouse and restock on supplies.Be vigilant of the container ship traffic navigating the Hudson River as you move through the Yonkers-Tarrytown stretch. Maintaining proper radio communication on channel 16 is crucial here.#### Section 4: The Final Stretch to PeekskillAs you draw closer to Peekskill, prepare for the changing nature of the Hudson River. The river can vary greatly in width and depth, so continuous attention to your chartplotter and depth sounder is important to avoid grounding.Navigational aids here include both lateral and cardinal buoys, with the river having a noticeable current. This makes it vital to maintain a steady speed while considering wind conditions.Points of interest in Peekskill include the **Peekskill Museum**, which is great for a historical overview of the region. The nearby waterfront offers lovely park spaces for relaxation and enjoying a picnic.### Safety and Regulation Considerations1. **Weather Monitoring**: Always have a reliable method for checking weather updates. Be particularly alert to sudden changes in conditions.2. **Vessel Safety**: Ensure all safety equipment is present and operational, including life vests, flares, and a fire extinguisher.3. **Local Regulations**: Adhere to speed limits and no-wake zones, particularly near marinas, residential areas, and the parks along the route.4. **Navigation Apps**: Use boating apps like Navionics and Strava for tracking your course but make sure to have **Savvy Navvy** installed—it's an excellent all-in-one app that offers detailed charts and weather information.### ConclusionThis pilotage plan lays out a picturesque and safe route for your journey from New Rochelle to Peekskill. The mix of tranquil bays, interesting landmarks, and manageable challenges makes this a perfect trip for family boaters and leisure seekers alike. With proper planning and adherence to safety protocols, you can enjoy a memorable day on the water, filled with both adventure and tranquility. Remember, safety first—and the fun will follow!