New York to Croton on Hudson by boat

Pilotage Plan for Boat Trip: New York, NY to Croton on Hudson, NY

Starting Point: New York, NY (Coordinates: -74.011666, 40.745333) Ending Point: Croton on Hudson, NY (Coordinates: -73.889883, 41.197217)

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Overview of the Trip

Embarking on a boat trip from the bustling harbor of New York City to the serene landscape of Croton on Hudson is a delightful journey that showcases some of the finest views along the Hudson River. This route is suitable for recreational boaters and weekend adventurers looking for a mixture of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. While the journey offers scenic vistas and interesting landmarks, safety remains the top priority, especially considering the busy waters surrounding New York City.

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Route Description

Segment 1: Departing New York City As you depart from the docks in New York, it's essential to navigate through the East River and past the iconic skyline. Pay attention to the busy shipping lanes and the various ferries that operate in the area. Ensure you have the latest tide data as the East River can have strong currents.

Notable Navigational Aids:

• Governors Island (Northwest): Keep this island to port as you venture into the Upper New York Bay.
• Statue of Liberty (South): A perfect spot for photography as you pass by, but maintain distance due to high boat traffic.

Points of Interest

• Battery Park: Offering views of the harbor and Lady Liberty, you may want to anchor briefly here for a quick scenic break.

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Segment 2: Journey Up the Hudson River As you transition into the Hudson River, enjoy the sweeping views of the waterfront and the changing landscape. The riverbanks will start revealing the historical significance of the region, including forts and lighthouses.

Shelter Options:

• Haverstraw Bay: Should the weather suddenly turn, this expansive bay provides good anchorage and shelter from winds.

Navigational Aids:

• Tarrytown Light: This iconic lighthouse guides you while navigating towards the Tappan Zee Bridge (Mario M. Cuomo Bridge).
• Maintain a lookout for buoys marking the shipping channels; it's crucial to respect the marked paths to avoid potential hazards.

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Segment 3: Approaching Croton-on-Hudson As you near Croton-on-Hudson, prepare for a more tranquil boating experience with stunning natural vistas. The river widens and offers a more relaxed docking experience.

Docking: Croton-on-Hudson has several marinas and docking points, such as the Croton Yacht Club where you can receive transient dockage. This area is calm and well-indexed for new boaters.

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Safety Considerations and Local Regulations

1. United States Coast Guard: Keep a lookout for any announcements or advisories that could affect your trip.2. Traffic Rules: The Hudson River has specific navigation rules. Always give way to commercial vessels, which have the right of way in the shipping lanes.3. Weather Check: Before departure, verify up-to-date weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes. Apps like Savvy Navvy can provide live weather updates.4. Anchoring Regulations: Understand the local regulations regarding anchoring, especially near sensitive ecological areas.5. Personal Flotation Devices: Ensure all aboard are wearing PFDs and that you have all safety gear readily accessible.

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Conclusion

This trip from New York, NY to Croton-on-Hudson, NY, encapsulates the charm of the Hudson River, offering a blend of safety and allure for every boater. The advantageous entry points, abundant natural features, and opportunities for shelter make this route a pleasurable yet mindful adventure. As you navigate your way, ensure that you respect the waterways and enrich your experience with respectful exploration of the beautiful landscapes that embody the spirit of New York’s waterways.

Happy boating, and enjoy the journey!