New York to Rumson by boat

Pilotage Plan from New York, NY to Rumson, NJ

Route Overview:This scenic journey from New York, NY, to Rumson, NJ, covers approximately 25 nautical miles, navigating through one of the busiest waters in the country while offering captivating views of both the urban skyline and the natural coastal environment. The trip combines the thrill of urban boating with the tranquility of New Jersey's waterways. This route is particularly ideal for experienced recreational boaters looking to enjoy a multi-faceted experience, from the bustling city to serene bays and waterfront parks.

Starting Point: New York, NY

• Coordinates: 40.7453° N, -74.0117° W
• Departure Location: Choose a slip at a marina such as the North Cove Marina or Chelsea Piers, which provide amenities and are close to the city’s attractions.

Leg 1: Departing ManhattanAs you leave the marina, ensure you're aware of commercial traffic and any advised restrictions in Manhattan’s busy harbor. Head south towards the Hudson River, keeping an eye on notable landmarks such as Battery Park and the Statue of Liberty.

Navigational Aids:

• Battery Park City: Mark your course here to adjust for any upcoming currents and boat traffic.
• Statue of Liberty: As you approach, maintain a safe distance (at least 1,000 feet) as these waters can be trafficked significantly by ferries.

Shelter Option:

• Hoboken Cove: Just a little west across the river, this bay offers good shelter and a picturesque view of Manhattan. It's a great spot to take a break if you need to reassess due to worsening weather.

Leg 2: The Journey Up the Hudson RiverContinuing up the Hudson River, follow the eastern shore while maintaining a safe distance from the navigation channel. This is a busy commercial waterway, so vigilance is key. Use your chart plotter or apps like Savvy Navvy, which provides updated navigational aids.

Points of Interest:

• Explore waterfront parks such as Liberty State Park in Jersey City for a picnic or short stroll.
• Keep an eye out for the impressive views of the Palisades on the New Jersey shore.

Shelter Option:

• Weehawken Cove: A peaceful area to dock and wait out any inclement weather, complete with views of the Manhattan skyline.

Leg 3: Transitioning to Sandy Hook BayNavigating down towards Sandy Hook Bay, you'll begin to see the landscape change, focusing more on natural beauty. Pay attention to the markers and aids as the water conditions can change.

Navigational Aids:

• Sandy Hook Light: A key landmark indicating the entrance to Sandy Hook Bay. Be aware of potential strong currents as you approach the mouth.

Special Considerations:

• Maintain a safe speed and be aware of recreational boats and fishermen in this area.
• Secure all necessary permits for your intended activities and check local advisories on fishing or 'no wake' zones.

Leg 4: Approaching RumsonAs you pass through Sandy Hook Bay, you can enjoy the calm before the final leg over to Rumson. The shoreline here is dotted with beautiful estates, making for a scenic approach. Prepare to follow the Shrewsbury River up towards Rumson.

Final Considerations:

• Watch for local traffic and be prepared to encounter vessels of various sizes, including sailboats, kayaks, and fishing boats.
• Check for tidal information as the entrance to the river can be tricky during low tide.

Arrival: Rumson, NJ

• Coordinates: 40.3780° N, -74.0125° W
• Docking: Upon arriving in Rumson, consider docking at the Rumson Boat Ramp or local marinas.

Conclusion:This route from New York to Rumson not only offers a variety of experiences, from navigating a lively urban setting to exploring the peaceful coasts of New Jersey, but it also emphasizes safety and good planning. It’s perfect for boaters who wish to merge adventure with calm exploration, all while keeping a keen eye on navigational safety. Remember to prepare your navigation tools, bring along a reliable weather app, with Savvy Navvy being highly recommended, and always have a contingency plan in place for unexpected weather changes. Enjoy your journey!