### Pilotage Plan: New York, NY to Carteret, NJ#### OverviewEmbarking on a voyage from New York City to Carteret, NJ, offers a blend of urban sailing and vibrant waterfront experiences. This route is particularly suitable for experienced boaters looking for a blend of exciting cityscapes and the potential for smoother navigation along the New Jersey waterfront. The distance is approximately 12 nautical miles and should take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on wind and tidal conditions.#### Departure: New York, NYStarting from New York City, you’ll want to ensure your boat is prepared for both the local waterway conditions and any potential currents. New York Harbor can get busy, with commercial traffic, ferries, and recreational vessels, so vigilance is key.**Safety Advisory:**- Monitor VHF Channel 13 and 16.- Pay attention to the busy shipping lanes and follow the traffic patterns to avoid collisions.#### Notable Points of Interest- **Statue of Liberty**: Departing from the southern tip of Manhattan, a quick detour to sail around the iconic Statue of Liberty provides breathtaking views and is a symbolic highlight of your trip.- **Ellis Island**: Another point of interest where you can enjoy the historical significance of America’s immigration station. While you won’t moor here, it’s a stunning site to pass by.#### Navigational ConsiderationsAs you depart New York Harbor, keep an eye on the following navigational aids:- **The Battery**: Marked with sea buoys and lights, leading you towards the New Jersey waterfront.- **South Brother Island**: A notable landmark guiding you as you navigate towards the Kill van Kull, providing excellent visual reference points.#### Route and Hazards- After passing the Battery, you’ll enter Upper New York Bay. Keep following the markers as you head towards the tidal waters. Be aware of the barge traffic, especially on the Hudson River.- Proceed carefully through the **Kill van Kull**, known for its strong currents. This section can be tricky, especially during peak tidal flows.**Shelter Options**:- **Bayonne**: You can find some shelter along the shores of Bayonne if weather conditions turn unfriendly, and it’s also a good place to refuel if needed.#### En Route HighlightsPassing near the bustling port cities of Kearny and Newark, the industrial landscape transforms before reaching Carteret. This part of the waterway showcases the interplay between urban development and nature.**Navigational Aids**:- Look out for **buoys and lights** that mark the channel. Utilize your chart plotter or paper charts to stay aligned with the marked channels to avoid potential hazards.- **Carteret Light**: As you near your destination, the Carteret Light will guide you into the waterfront area, marked clearly on most nautical charts.#### Arrival: Carteret, NJOnce you arrive in Carteret, the marina facilities are welcoming and offer various amenities for boaters. The area around the marina features parks and waterfront activities where you can engage in fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoy the views of the Arthur Kill.#### Local Regulations and Best Practices- Ensure that you are compliant with local boating regulations, including speed limits in respective zones.- Be mindful of fishing regulations in the waters you traverse, and obtain any necessary permits if you plan to drop a line during your trip.#### Recommended Boating Apps- Savvy Navvy: Essential for user-friendly navigational charts and route planning.- Navionics: Offers comprehensive charts and updates for marinas and navigational aids.- Windy: Helpful for real-time weather updates to stay ahead of changing conditions.This route from Manhattan to Carteret offers not only a chance to witness some iconic American landscapes but also presents a primarily safe and navigable pathway for experienced boaters. With appropriate preparation and attention to the changing elements, you’re bound to have an enriching maritime experience. Enjoy your adventure on the water!