Pennsville Township to North East by boat

Pilotage Plan: Pennsville Township, NJ to North East, MD

Introduction

Embarking on a boat trip from Pennsville Township, New Jersey to North East, Maryland offers a delightful adventure filled with natural beauty and historic landmarks. This route, while requiring careful navigational awareness, is well-suited for experienced boaters and provides several opportunities for shelter and exploring interesting spots along the way.

Departure from Pennsville Township, NJ

Coordinates: Long -75.49167, Lat 39.58333

1. Navigational Overview: Start at Pennsville, situated near the Delaware River mouth. Head downriver towards the Delaware Bay, ensuring you're aware of shipping traffic, particularly on weekdays. A good practice is to monitor VHF Channel 13, which is dedicated to bridge communications and vessel traffic.

2. Weather Considerations: Since the Delaware Bay can be particularly challenging with strong currents and rapidly changing weather conditions, keep an eye on forecasts. If forecasts predict a change in weather, you might want to consider staying close to the New Jersey shoreline.

Route Highlights

1. Delaware Bay

As you navigate into the Delaware Bay, watch for navigational aids such as buoys and markers indicating safe passages.

• Hazards: Be cautious of shoals such as the Brandywine Shoal and the Packhorse Shoal which could pose a risk to deeper-draft vessels.
• Shelter: If conditions turn adverse, consider pulling into the safe harbors of Salem or the nearby Artificial Island area.

2. Upper Chesapeake Bay

Continue your journey by entering the Upper Chesapeake Bay, a beautiful stretch of water where you can find scenic views and wildlife.

• Points of Interest:
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Situated on Pea Patch Island, this historic fort is an interesting stop often accessible only by boat, perfect for a picnic or exploration. -

A charming spot for photography and often frequented for its scenic vistas of the bay.

Navigational Aids and Considerations

As you travel further, follow carefully placed buoys as you approach the C&D Canal. This canal is vital in your journey:

• Buoys: Pay close attention to green and red marker buoys guiding your path. Use apps like savvy navvy to keep track of your location and route, particularly in this busy commercial waterway.
• Local Regulations: The C&D Canal has specific no-wake zones—ensure you adhere to all speed restrictions and keep an eye out for larger vessels.

Final Approach to North East, MD

Coordinates: Long -75.96278, Lat 39.55805

1. Final Stretch: As you approach North East, MD, prepare for a busy entrance. The town is often teeming with other recreational boaters and fishing vessels.

2. Sheltering Options: The North East River offers multiple anchorage points where you can safely dock or anchor should conditions become rough. Choosing spots like Near Shore or at the Marina will provide protection from prevailing winds.

Arrival in North East, MD

Upon your arrival in North East, take the time to enjoy the quaint town and its waterfront charm. Whether it’s visiting local restaurants or exploring the waterside parks, there’s plenty to appreciate.

Safety and Preparations

Always be prepared with a solid understanding of maritime safety regulations, including life jackets for all passengers, flares, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Stay hydrated and have a reliable means of communication onboard. In addition, ensure you have all required licenses and registrations for your vessel.

Conclusion

This journey from Pennsville Township to North East, MD not only showcases the beauty of the Jersey and Maryland shores but also the necessity of safety precautions and navigational awareness. It’s a thoughtful blend of exploration, adventure, and a touch of history; a perfect route for the adventurous boater prioritizing safety while still yearning for memorable experiences on the water. With the right preparation, this trip will be both safe and fun, inviting all adventurers to create lasting memories.