Pilotage Plan: North East, MD to Shady Side, MD
Overview:Embarking on a journey from North East, MD, to Shady Side, MD, is not just a cruise, but a delightful exploration of the Mid-Atlantic region's waterways. This route caters primarily to recreational boaters who appreciate a blend of stunning vistas, local attractions, and the assurance of safe harbor should the weather change.
Route Details:Starting from North East, you will traverse through the scenic Chesapeake Bay area, rich with history, wildlife, and boater-friendly facilities. The entire distance is approximately 32 nautical miles, making it a manageable day trip or a leisurely weekend outing.
Section 1: Departure from North East
- Coordinates: -75.9627833333, 39.55805
- Upon departing, be mindful of the North East River's narrow channel. Look for buoys marking the channel: red on the right as you head out.
- The vibrant town of North East offers a charming marina with restrooms, fuel, and dining options. Take a moment to check the local marine weather forecasts before setting off.
Section 2: Navigating the Elk River
- As you enter the Elk River, keep an eye on the navigational markers. The river opens up, providing an opportunity to enjoy a variety of wildlife, particularly around the marshy areas.
- Take advantage of Elk Neck State Park on the western shore, a great spot for those wanting to stretch their legs or take a short hike. The views of the Chesapeake from the park's cliffs are spectacular.
Section 3: Crossing the Chesapeake Bay
- Clear of the Elk River, you will head into the broader Chesapeake Bay waters. Keep a lookout for:
- The
, an iconic marker, and a perfect backdrop for photography. - Various sailing vessels and fishing boats—it's busy here, so maintain a watchful eye and be prudent with your speed.- Ensure you have your VHF radio ready as you’ll want to monitor Channel 16 for any crucial communications from other boaters or the Coast Guard.
Section 4: Arriving at the Patuxent River
- As you reach the Patuxent River entrance, the navigational aids will become particularly important. Pay close attention to the channel markers guiding you into the river.
- This area is known for its delightful small coves, like Broadneck Cove, where you can tuck in for shelter if the weather shifts. It’s an ideal spot to anchor, unwind, and perhaps cook up a meal.
Section 5: Approaching Shady Side
- As you near Shady Side, check your charts thoroughly for water depth; this region can have shallower spots, especially at low tide.
- The Bayside Marina in Shady Side is welcoming to transient boaters offering amenities like showers and a small convenience store. It’s a good place to refuel or grab provisions.
Points of Interest:
- Sandy Point State Park: Located to your east, just off the Bay Bridge, it's a great potential detour for picnics and beach lounging.
- Calvert Cliffs State Park: Worth a visit if you're interested in hiking and enjoying beautiful coastlines and fossil hunting.
- Reedville: If time allows, consider a brief stop here to explore its maritime heritage and various local seafood eateries.
Safety Considerations:
- Always check the marine weather conditions prior to each leg of your trip. Sudden storms are possible on the Chesapeake Bay.
- Keep an eye on vessels around you and comply with the local speed limits, especially in congested areas.
- Familiarize yourself with the local regulations, especially in quieter waterways where wildlife is abundant—wake zones may apply to protect marine life.
Recommended Boating Apps:For this journey, I recommend using savvy navvy for its easy-to-use interface, along with Navionics for comprehensive charts. Windy offers great weather updates, and VHF Radio applications are essential for communication.
This trip from North East to Shady Side ensures both safety and opportunity for enjoyment, offering everything from tranquil nature spots to bustling marinas, making it a well-rounded adventure for boaters of all types. Bon voyage, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Chesapeake Bay!
