Philadelphia to Wildwood Crest by boat

Pilotage Plan: Philadelphia to Wildwood Crest

Departure: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania As you prepare to set sail from Philadelphia, the Schuylkill River is your starting point. Cruise down towards the confluence with the Delaware River. Keep an eye out for commercial traffic along the Delaware, which is busily navigated by freighters and barges. Remain vigilant and maintain a safe distance from these larger vessels.

Route Overview Your journey to Wildwood Crest spans approximately 70 nautical miles, largely along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic coast. It's well-suited for recreational boaters with moderate to experienced skill levels due to the blend of river, bay, and ocean navigation, each with its own nuances.

Key Waypoints and Navigation Considerations

1. Delaware River - As you exit Philadelphia, stay close to the marked channels. The river can be quite busy. Pay attention to the various aids to navigation (ATON) signs, especially the buoys signaling commercial shipping lanes.

2. Burlington Island - About 20 nautical miles from Philadelphia, this area can serve as a break for lunch or contemplation. Keep Burling Island to your starboard as you approach the confluence into the bay.

3. Delaware Bay and Approach to Cape May The mouth of the Delaware Bay offers a significant point of interest. As you head toward Cape May, keep a watchful eye for changes in currents and tides, which can be strong, and utilize your charts to navigate safely. This stretch of water is usually frequented by dolphins and seabirds, providing a pleasant backdrop to your trip.

4. Cape May Harbor - Navigating around the tip of New Jersey, Cape May Harbor is a great stop for a break. Known for its historic architecture and beaches, this is a perfect spot for refueling and provisioning. The harbor is well-marked, and many amenities await.

5. Wildwood Crest - The final leg takes you up along the Wildwoods. The beaches here are a major attraction for visitors. As you approach Wildwood Crest, remember to monitor your depth carefully, as you’ll encounter some shallow areas along the way, especially near the shoreline.

Navigational Aids

Throughout your route, keep an eye on various navigational aids, including:

• Lighthouses: Ensure to GPS Cape May Lighthouse which marks the entrance of Cape May Harbor.
• Buoys and Markers: Follow them closely, as deviations may send you into shallow waters or lead to navigational hazards.

Sheltering Bays and Safety Considerations

• Sheltering Options: Should weather conditions worsen, consider heading back to Cape May Harbor or seeking refuge in the calmer waters around Avalon and Stone Harbor, areas known for offering good shelter from sea swells.
• Weather Information: Always check weather conditions prior to departure and while on the water. Sudden storms can materialize in this region.

Local Regulations and Best Practices

• Adhere to all local regulations, including fishing licenses if you plan to fish.
• Keep a keen eye on speed limit signs as you enter and exit harbors and inshore waters.
• Practice safe boating by having life jackets on board for every person and ensuring your VHF radio is functioning clearly.

Apps to Aid Navigation

As you plan your journey, consider utilizing navigation apps to enhance your experience. Recommended apps include:

• Savvy Navvy: This user-friendly app provides detailed charts, safe route planning, and tide data, making it an invaluable tool for your trip.
• Navionics: Another excellent resource for up-to-date marine maps and navigation data.
• USCG Navigation Apps: Useful for finding information about local aids to navigation and marine safety resources.

This trip from Philadelphia to Wildwood Crest combines splendid scenery, diverse wildlife, and vibrant coastal towns with necessary safety and navigational considerations, making it a wonderful choice for your next boating adventure. Enjoy your voyage!