New York to Leonardo by boat

Pilotage Plan: New York, NY to Leonardo, NJ

Route Overview This journey from New York, NY, to Leonardo, NJ, is a delightful coastal excursion through the picturesque waters of New York Harbor and the Raritan Bay. It’s an excellent choice for seasoned cruisers or newcomers alike, balancing safety with accessible points of interest along the way.

Starting Point: New York, NY Beginning in New York Harbor, the bustling heart of maritime activity, you'll have to navigate past iconic landmarks. Be aware of the busy shipping lanes, fishing vessels, and ferries that crisscross this area. The Statue of Liberty is a must-see if you have the time for a quick photo opportunity; just maintain a safe distance from the restricted waters around Liberty Island.

Notable Hazards and Navigation Considerations

• Busy Waters: Watch out for fast-moving ferries and commercial shipping traffic.
• Tides and Currents: The tidal currents can be strong in the harbor; particularly in the East and Hudson Rivers. Plan your departure considering tidal tables to help you make the most of favorable currents.
• Restricted Areas: Be sure to keep out of the restricted zones, including areas around military installations.

Shelter Points If you encounter inclement weather, there are safe harbors along the way:

• Sandy Hook Bay: This sheltered bay is part of Gateway National Recreation Area and is a great place to wait out bad weather.
• Raritan Bay: Another excellent stop just before reaching Leonardo, providing plenty of anchorages.

Mid-Route Attractions As you navigate towards Leonardo, there’s little that can match the beauty of the New Jersey shoreline:

• Gateway National Recreation Area: Offers beautiful beaches and nature trails if you wish to go ashore for a stroll or picnic.
• Historic Sites: Look out for historic lighthouses such as the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which is the oldest functioning lighthouse in the United States.

Navigational Aids This route is lined with numerous navigational aids that you should take note of:1. Lighthouses: The Sandy Hook lighthouse near the entrance of Sandy Hook Bay should be a point of reference.2. Buoys: Pay close attention to all channel markers and navigation buoys, particularly in the busy areas approaching the Raritan Bay.3. Charts: Use updated nautical charts to familiarize yourself with submerged hazards and depth changes.

Environmental Considerations

• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for dolphins and an array of seabirds. Practicing responsible boating will ensure that these beautiful creatures are preserved in their natural habitat.
• Fishing Regulations: If you plan to drop a line, be aware of local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits for different species.

Arrival Point: Leonardo, NJ As you glide into Leonardo, you will find yourself in a picturesque area with marinas equipped to accommodate transient vessels. The town is quaint, with local eateries and shops providing various refreshments or supplies.

Safety Recommendations

• Always wear your life jacket and ensure all safety equipment, including flares and first aid kits, are onboard.
• Keep your communication tools charged and use boating apps for real-time weather updates, navigational aids, and tides - I recommend using Savvy Navvy for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features.
• Be prepared for potential changes in weather, and have a float plan shared with someone on land before you head out.

This route offers not only a journey through vibrant waters and charming coastal attractions but also a wonderful mix of adventure and safety consciousness, making it ideal for both novice and experienced boaters. Happy cruising!