### Pilotage Plan from Norwalk, Connecticut to New Haven, Connecticut#### OverviewThis route from Norwalk to New Haven is a delightful journey along the picturesque coastline of Connecticut, showcasing stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and charming waterfront towns. It particularly suits recreational boaters looking for a blend of safety, scenic views, and accessible attractions.#### Departure Point: Norwalk, ConnecticutYour adventure begins in Norwalk, a bustling city with a rich maritime history. Before setting off, take time to explore the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium, which provides insight into the local marine ecosystem and serves as a great start to your journey.#### The Route1. **Leaving Norwalk Harbor**: Upon departing from Norwalk Harbor, ensure you respect the navigational markers (green 2, red 1) as you make your way out of the harbor. These aids will guide you safely through the adjacent shallow waters.2. **Navigating the Pitch of Long Island Sound**: As you head northeast, you'll encounter beautiful stretches of Long Island Sound. Maintain your course while being mindful of tidal currents, which can vary and may surprise you if you’re not attentive. It’s best to plan your departure around the tides to use them to your advantage while cruising.3. **Sailing past Westport**: Keep an eye out for Westport, where you can enjoy amazing views of the coastline. If time allows, consider pulling into Compo Beach for a quick respite or a picnic— a great spot to relax and enjoy the flavor of coastal living.4. **Entering Bridgeport**: As you approach Bridgeport, the area is marked by the Black Rock Harbor navigational buoys (red 12, green 11). It's essential to stay within the marked channels here, as the surrounding waters can be tricky with shifting sandbars. This harbor is a good area to anchor briefly if conditions worsen.5. **Navigating the Waters of Stratford**: Through the Stratford area, watch for the Stratford Shoal Light, which assists in keeping your bearings as you make your way along the shoreline. Fishing enthusiasts may find this section of the Sound fruitful for some recreational angling.6. **Arriving at New Haven's Lighthouse Point Park**: Before reaching New Haven, take note of the Lighthouse Point Park. This iconic landmark not only offers a picturesque view but is an ideal location for shelter should the weather suddenly change.#### Arrival Point: New Haven, ConnecticutUpon reaching New Haven Harbor, you’ll have plenty of options for docking in either the State Pier or the nearby yacht clubs. Once docked, take the opportunity to explore the historic downtown, home to Yale University, with its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Many restaurants and cafes along the waterfront make for a pleasant evening.#### Hazards and Considerations- **Tides and Currents**: Be vigilant of tidal changes, especially when nearing shallower waters; currents can be substantial.- **Weather**: Always keep an eye on the weather forecast. If conditions seem unfavorable, make the decision to seek shelter early.- **Marine Traffic**: Monitor for commercial shipping lanes, particularly in the deeper waters closer to New Haven. Use channel 16 for communication with other vessels and maintain a keen lookout.#### Points of Interest- Norwalk Maritime Aquarium: A fun start to your journey.- Compo Beach in Westport: Perfect for a picturesque break.- Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven: Both a landmark and potential safe harbor.#### Useful AppsFor a smooth journey, consider these boating apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: A fantastic resource for navigation and planning your route.- **MarineTraffic**: For tracking other vessels in the area and keeping up-to-date with marine traffic.- **Windy**: To monitor weather conditions in real-time, particularly useful for forecasting winds.This trip from Norwalk to New Haven is not just a navigational journey; it’s an experience filled with the beauty of Connecticut’s shoreline and the joy of exploring new places. Maintain your focus on safety, enjoy the landmarks, and you’ll create memorable moments on the water. Happy cruising!