Philadelphia to Worton by boat

Pilotage Plan: Philadelphia, PA to Worton, MD

Overview

Your journey from Philadelphia to Worton, Maryland, offers not only an exciting adventure on the water but also a chance to explore some beautiful landscapes and key points of interest. This route is well-suited for intermediate to advanced boaters due to the various navigational challenges and the need for awareness of local waters and maritime regulations. This plan prioritizes safety while still ensuring an enjoyable experience.

Departure: Philadelphia, PA

• Coordinates: (Lon: -75.150973, Lat: 39.887164)
• Start Point: The scenic Philadelphia waterfront, with easy access to the Delaware River. Before setting off, it may be wise to check local weather conditions and tide schedules since they can significantly affect your departure and navigation through the Delaware Bay.

Route Highlights

1.

- As you exit Philadelphia, you'll be navigating the wide expanses of the Delaware River. On your way downriver, keep an eye out for commercial traffic, particularly large barges, so be prepared to adjust your trajectory as needed. - Notable points along the Delaware River include: -

- A picturesque sight. -

- One of America’s first botanical gardens located along the bank.

2. Entry into the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal - After navigating south along the Delaware River, you'll make your way towards the entrance of the Chesapeake and Delaware (C&D) Canal. The entrance can be busy with both commercial and recreational boat traffic. - Make sure to follow the marked channels and pay close attention to the navigation lights and buoys. Keep an eye on your charts as the C&D Canal can experience strong currents.

3. C&D Canal to Chesapeake Bay - Transiting through the C&D Canal will lead you directly into the Chesapeake Bay. This area is heavily trafficked with various types of vessels, so vigilant navigation is crucial. - Take note of bridge heights and any restrictions regarding vessel sizes. - Landmarks include: - Fort DuPont State Park - A lovely area for potential stops with good shelter from rough weather.

4. Chesapeake Bay – Kent Narrows - Once in the Chesapeake Bay, you’ll pass through the Kent Narrows. This section is known for its congestion but offers stunning waterside views and plenty of marina options for refuge should the weather deteriorate. - Keep an eye out for the "Narrowing" buoys which will guide you through this section. These are crucial for safe navigation.

5. Approaching Worton Creek - As you approach Worton on the eastern shore, Worton Creek is your final destination where you’ll find plenty of shelter from inclement weather. - The entrance to Worton Harbor is marked with buoys to facilitate safe entry. This area offers various recreational activities and is rich in local heritage.

Notable Points of Interest

• Historic Chestertown: By making a short detour after reaching Worton, you can visit this charming town with rich colonial history.
• Sassafras Natural Resource Management Area: Great for nature lovers, providing trails and stunning views along the water.
• Shuttle Services: If you dock at any of the local marinas, many offer shuttle services into local towns.

Navigational Aids & Regulations

• Chart Plotting: Always ensure your charts are up to date. Utilizing boating apps like Savvy Navvy can enhance your navigation experience significantly. Pair this with traditional paper charts for redundancy.
• Radio Communication: Maintain a VHF radio to stay informed on weather updates and communicate with other vessels, especially in busy waterways.
• Speed Restrictions: Pay attention to speed zone markers in the C&D Canal and surrounding areas, particularly near residential zones.
• Wildlife Protection: Be aware of no-wake zones and areas designated for wildlife protection, especially as you navigate through sensitive ecological areas in the Chesapeake Bay.

Conclusion

This trip from Philadelphia to Worton, MD, is not just a journey across open waters, but a fantastic culinary and historical experience waiting to unfold. With careful planning, attention to navigation, and an eye out for the local environment, this adventure promises both safe travels and memorable experiences. Enjoy the versatile beauty of the waterways, embrace the serenity of shelter bays, and take the time to explore the charm of the regions along the way. Safe sailing!