New York to Edgewater by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York, NY to Edgewater, NJ

Overview

This is a well-planned route for a leisurely but cautious boat trip from New York City to Edgewater, New Jersey. The route primarily follows the Hudson River, showcasing a blend of urban as well as natural environments. Perfect for both seasoned sailors and weekend warriors, the voyage combines moments of solitude with vibrant views of the bustling Manhattan skyline and the lush greenery of the riverbanks. Safety is paramount; therefore, we'll navigate through crucial considerations, potential docking points, and local regulations along the way.

Points of Interest & Hazards

As you set off from New York, you’ll be greeted by the iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The southern tip of Manhattan hosts busy ferry routes, so exercise caution in your navigation.

• Battery Park: A scenic departure point with solid facilities if you need a quick stop before heading out.
• Governor’s Island: Another potential stop, especially if you want to explore its parks and attractions. Keep in mind any ferry traffic here.
• Liberty State Park: On the New Jersey side, heralding yet another excellent spot to consider for docking and a stretch.

As you continue north, be mindful of the following hazards:

• Strong currents in the Hudson River, especially during tidal changes. Check tide tables prior to departure!
• Ferry traffic: Numerous ferries operate across the harbor and up the river, carefully heed all traffic patterns.
• Commercial shipping traffic: The Hudson is an active waterway used by large vessels; always keep a lookout for the 'big guys.'

Navigational Aids and Regulations

Navigational aids along the route are quite comprehensive with numerous buoys and marker lights. Pay close attention to:

• The Hudson River Traffic Separation Scheme: This system divides the flow of smaller vessels from larger commercial ships to minimize collision risks. Follow these designated routes.
• Buoys: Clearly indicated by the US Coast Guard, particularly red (right returning) and green (left returning). Always navigate accordingly based on your outbound journey.
• Local regulations: Be aware of no-wake zones, particularly in more populated areas and near marinas.

Route Description

Starting at your coordinates of New York, NY, set your course for Edgewater, NJ, making your way up the Hudson River. Departing Battery Park, head slightly southwest toward the tip of Liberty State Park. Make sure to adequately plan your bearings as you pass through the harbor—this area can be busy with ferry and commercial vessel traffic.

As you transition into the Hudson River, keep in mind about maintaining a safe distance from the shipping channels. The current is typically stronger here near the George Washington Bridge, so adjusting your boat speed is advised.

• Palisades Interstate Park: As you near this area, consider dropping anchor temporarily to relish the breathtaking view of the Palisades Cliffs towering over the river.

As you approach Edgewater, be on the lookout for the Edgewater Harbor, a good location for docking should you want to explore the area for a few hours.

Bays and Safe Havens

If midway through the journey you encounter unexpected weather changes or wish to stop for a break, Haverstraw Bay is an appropriate bay where you can anchor down, refill provisions, and recharge. Always keep local weather forecasts updated and visible.

Useful Apps

For the modern boater, I recommend using valuable apps such as:

• Savvy Navvy: Exceptional for plotting routes, tide predictions, and potential hazards.
• Navionics: Offers detailed nautical charts and navigational data.
• Windy: Keep on top of weather patterns and detailed wind data for safe passage.

Conclusion

This journey offers an excellent blend of safety and enjoyment; you’ll be surrounded by remarkable sights while keeping a vigilant eye on currents, traffic, and navigational markers. Embark on this inspiring trip to Edgewater, and you shall find a voyage steeped in urban charm and natural beauty. Safe travels out on the water!