Starting Point: Newport, Rhode Island (Longitude: -71.3254666667, Latitude: 41.4788) Ending Point: New Bedford, Massachusetts (Longitude: -70.9245333333, Latitude: 41.6084166667)
The journey from Newport to New Bedford spans approximately 20 nautical miles and offers a delightful mixture of scenic coastal views, various points of interest, and safe harbors. This route is ideal for recreational boaters, both novices and experienced cruisers, looking for a day trip or a leisurely weekend adventure.
1. Departure from Newport Harbor: - Upon departing Newport, ensure you follow the marked channel to avoid hazards. Newport Harbor is well-marked with navigational aids. Pay attention to the buoys indicating the shipping channel leading to the East Passage, which is generally safe and deep.
2. Narragansett Bay: - The route will have you pass through Narragansett Bay, which is an excellent area for shelter in case of unexpected weather changes. Consider stopping at one of its many coves, such as Fort Adams or Jamestown, where you can enjoy some shoreline activities or explore historical sites.
3. Entering the East Passage: - As you navigate northward, keep a lookout for the elegant cliffs of Beavertail State Park. The lighthouse here is a beautiful photo opportunity and offers a lovely vista of the open ocean. The East Passage features generally deep waters, but always check depth charts for any changes before setting out.
4. Passing Close to Conimicut Light: - The Conimicut Lighthouse is an important visual navigational aid. Maintain your course and keep a safe distance as this section can be busy with commercial traffic.
5. Transition to Mount Hope Bay: - After passing through the East Passage, you’ll head into Mount Hope Bay. This area opens up wide views and can sometimes experience a bit of chop, especially if winds are contrary. Remember to keep your speed in check and maintain a proper lookout for other vessels.
6. Approaching Fall River and the Braga Bridge: - As you near Fall River, don't miss the impressive Braga Bridge, which marks the transition into the Taunton River. The bridge is an impressive sight and a good spot to assess weather and wind conditions before making further progress.
7. Reaching New Bedford Harbor: - Once you pass through the Fall River area, you will soon be approaching New Bedford. Upon arriving in New Bedford Harbor, heed the navigational markers leading into the harbor to avoid any shallow spots, especially near the commercial wharves.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water, I recommend utilizing navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy, which provides easy chart plotting and route planning. Additionally, consider apps like Navionics and Weather Underground for onboard navigation and weather updates.
This route from Newport to New Bedford offers both excitement and tranquility, allowing you to enjoy the majestic New England coastline while offering all the necessary safety measures for a worry-free boating experience. Happy cruising!