Pilotage Plan: Ocean City, NJ to Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Route Overview:
This journey takes you from the picturesque coastline of Ocean City to the serene shores of Little Egg Harbor Township. While the route is filled with delightful points of interest, it prioritizes safety and offers options for shelter if the weather takes a turn. The trip is particularly suited for recreational boaters who have a love for the coast and enjoy both exploration and tranquility.
Section 1: Departure from Ocean City
Starting your voyage at Ocean City, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this popular vacation spot before you set sail. Before you leave the marina, ensure that you conduct a full safety briefing and make sure that everyone onboard is wearing a life vest. Ocean City is well marked with navigational aids, but be cautious of the busy waterways, especially during the high tourist season.
Points of Interest Near Ocean City:
Ocean City Boardwalk:An ideal last stop before casting off, the boardwalk offers shops, restaurants, and attractions for last-minute fun.
Navigational Aids:
Be mindful of the buoys marking waterways; these assist with keeping a safe distance from shallow areas. A good practice is to monitor your chart plotter or reliable GPS to keep track of your route.
Section 2: Heading Toward Corson Inlet
As you maneuver through the channels, make your way toward Corson Inlet. This area can have shifting sandbars, so it's crucial to keep an eye on tidal changes and avoid navigating during low tide. Corson Inlet is a natural area that provides a picturesque view and a peaceful environment for a brief respite.
Shelter Option:
Corson Inlet itself can serve as a safe harbor in case of unexpected weather changes. Look for navigational buoys guiding the way.
Section 3: On to the Great Bay
Once past Corson Inlet, you can proceed towards Great Bay. This part of the voyage offers a wider channel with deeper waters, making it more accommodating for larger vessels.
Points of Interest:
Great Bay Marina:A stop here allows you to refuel, grab food, or simply relax on the water.
Important Navigational Aids:
Pay attention to the markers and keep to the shipping channels to avoid any hazards or shallow waters. There are areas marked for no-wake zones, so be courteous to the local wildlife and fellow boaters.
Section 4: Approaching Little Egg Harbor
As you leave Great Bay, you'll navigate closer to Little Egg Harbor. The area can be quite scenic, with plenty of wildlife. Keep an eye out for local boat traffic and crab pots, especially as you get nearer to marshlands that dot the harbor.
Shelter Options:
Little Egg Harbor itself has several spots that provide shelter from the winds, should conditions change. Look out for local marinas that welcome transient slips for overnight moorings.
Navigational Considerations:
There may be local restrictions regarding speed limits, especially in narrow channels and near residential areas. Again, relying on your navigation apps like savvy navvy can provide real-time updates and charts to ensure a safe passage.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Journey & Safety First
This route not only offers an enjoyable experience filled with beautiful views and points of interest, but it also emphasizes safety and preparedness. Always stay updated on the weather and remain vigilant about your surroundings, particularly when navigating in crowded or challenging areas. Make sure you have essential safety gear onboard, including life jackets and a well-stocked first aid kit.
Lastly, I recommend using savvy navvy along with other boating apps for comprehensive navigation support, easy plotting, and real-time weather alerts. The combination of stunning scenery and the tranquil waters of Little Egg Harbor Township makes this a journey worth embarking on. Enjoy your adventure out on the water!