**Pilotage Plan: New York, NY to Nyack, NY****Route Overview** Embarking from the bustling harbor of New York City to the serene shores of Nyack, this trip offers a splendid mix of urban and natural beauty, making it suitable for intermediate and experienced boaters looking for a delightful getaway. Covering approximately 25 nautical miles, the journey offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, historical landmarks along the Hudson River, and inviting bays for safe harbour should conditions change.**Key Sections of the Route**1. **Departure from New York Harbor** Piloting out from New York Harbor, it’s essential to navigate around numerous navigational hazards, including commercial shipping lanes and busy ferry traffic. As you head north, follow the channel marked by buoys #3 and #4 out of the East River. Stay vigilant to the various vessel movements, and keep an eye on the VTS (Vessel Traffic Service) announcements for any local traffic updates. You will pass by notable features such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, perfect for a quick sightseeing detour, albeit from a safe distance.2. **Navigating the Upper New York Bay** Once you clear the harbor, you will find yourself in the Upper New York Bay. Maintain a course toward the Hudson River, keeping your depth sounder close at hand as you navigate through areas with varying depths. Look for the large, green navigational buoy marking the Hudson River entrance; it’s a vital marker as you begin your journey up the river.3. **The Hudson River** As you cruise up the Hudson, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the Palisades cliffs on your starboard side and the Manhattan skyline behind you. Be mindful of recreational vessels, as the Hudson is a popular spot for both local boaters and kayakers. The river can sometimes experience strong currents, especially near bridges, so adjust your speed and heading as necessary.4. **Notable Landmarks Along the Way** Along this stretch, consider stopping at various points of interest, including: - **Governors Island**: A former military installation, great for a picnic or a leisurely walk. - **Fort Lee**: Spot the historic fortifications on the New Jersey side as you draw closer. - **The George Washington Bridge**: A fantastic photo opportunity and a helpful navigational landmark.5. **Sheltering Bays** Should the weather take a turn, there are several local bays where you can find refuge: - **Hoboken Cove**: Sheltered and easily accessible, it’s excellent for a quick stop to assess weather conditions. - **Piermont Pier**: Located at the mouth of the Sparkill Creek, a cozy spot to anchor with amenities if you need to wait out a squall.6. **Approaching Nyack** Further upriver, as you approach Nyack, watch for the buoys marking the channel. The downtown area of Nyack offers various attractions, including shops and eateries, perfect for a post-cruise stroll. The Tappan Zee Bridge is also an iconic landmark to appreciate as you arrive at your destination.**Navigational Aids and Safety Considerations** Throughout the journey, keep an eye on navigational aids and adhere to local maritime regulations. Noteworthy aids include: - Commercial shipping lane markers: Maintain a safe distance. - Fixed bridge heights: Always check your vessel's air draft against bridge clearances. - Traffic separation schemes: Use these when navigating busy channel areas.Make use of common boating apps, including savvy navvy, which can assist you with route planning, tidal information, and navigational alerts.**Conclusion** This route from New York to Nyack presents an exciting opportunity for boaters to experience the majestic Hudson River corridor—ensure thorough preparation for safe navigation. While the journey is packed with captivating sights and ideal stopping points, your safety remains the top priority as weather and traffic can change. Bon voyage!