Northport to Sewaren by boat

Pilotage Plan: Northport, NY to Sewaren, NJ

Overview:
This journey from Northport, NY to Sewaren, NJ offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, navigational challenges, and opportunities for relaxation. As you navigate the coastal waters, keep an eye on weather conditions and be prepared for potential changes. This route is particularly suitable for experienced boaters comfortable with tidal currents and busy waterways.

Leg 1: Departing Northport, NY

1. Start Point: Northport Harbor

• Coordinates: -73.3566666667, 40.8916666667
• Northport is well-sheltered, providing a safe starting point. Ensure you’re familiar with local marina protocols and check the latest weather forecast.

1. Navigational Considerations:

• Depart straight out of Northport Harbor, keeping to the marked channels.
• Pay attention to depths and avoid the shallows near the entrance. The harbor can occasionally have shoal spots at low tide.

1. Point of Interest:

• As you exit, consider glancing at the stunning Northport Village waterfront; it’s a charming area to explore if you have time before your departure.

Leg 2: Cruising to the Long Island Sound

1. Route to the Sound:

• As you head south from Northport, navigate towards the eastern part of Long Island Sound. Monitor your chart closely for any shifting shallows in the area, especially near the mouth of the harbor.

1. Shelter Bays:
   Huntington Bay:A lovely bay to port side that provides a great stopping point if conditions become rough. Enjoy the views of historic homes along the shoreline.
   Cold Spring Harbor:Further inland, this harbor is another potential refuge with good anchoring options.
2. Navigational Aids:

• Look for the navigational buoys marking the channel leading into the sound. Check your chartplotter and match buoy descriptions against markers.

Leg 3: Entering Raritan Bay

1. Transition to Raritan Bay:

• After making your way south through the Sound, prepare to enter Raritan Bay. Keep an eye out for fast-moving ferries and local fishing boats, especially near the Outerbridge Crossing.

1. Important Hazards:

• Be mindful of tidal currents that can be strong here, particularly around tidal changes. You may feel the push as you navigate past the bridges. Make adjustments to your heading accordingly.

1. Shelter Opportunities:
   Sandy Hook Bay:Offers protection from prevailing winds and can be a great stop if you need to wait out inclement weather. There are lovely beaches and nature reserves here.

Leg 4: Approaching Sewaren, NJ

1. Final Stretch:

• As you approach Sewaren, begin to look for the navigational markers that will guide you toward the entrance to Arthur Kill.

1. Navigational Considerations:

• As you reach the final navigation points near Sewaren, watch for commercial traffic, as you’ll be entering a more industrial part of New Jersey, with larger vessels and cargo ships in the vicinity.

1. Local Regulations:

• Be aware of any No-Wake zones as you approach Sewaren. Keep an eye on your speed to avoid unnecessary wake and stay compliant with local regulations.

1. Arrival Point: Sewaren, NJ

• Coordinates: -74.255460027, 40.556233413
• Sewaren has a small marina and is a perfect end to your trip, with local dining options and a charming waterfront pedestrian area.

Apps & Navigation Tools:
Make sure to have a reliable boating app to support your navigation. Recommended apps include:
Savvy Navvy:This app offers comprehensive charts, route planning, and real-time weather updates.
Navionics:Useful for detailed maritime charts and community updates regarding local hazards.
Windy:Helps keep track of tides and weather conditions throughout your journey.

ThisPilotage Plan from Northport to Sewaren emphasizes safety but also invites you to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and potential stops along the way. By following this route, you'll not only complete a safe journey, but also encounter the charm of New York's and New Jersey's waterways. Bon voyage!