**Pilotage Plan: Boat Trip from Point Pleasant Beach, NJ to City Island, NY****1. Overview of the Trip:**This cruise takes you from the picturesque shoreline of Point Pleasant Beach to the vibrant City Island in New York. Covering a distance of approximately 30 nautical miles, this route offers experienced boaters a delightful blend of coastal scenery, bustling harbors, and tranquil bays. Ideal for those seeking a day trip or a weekend getaway, this plan is well-suited for both power and sailboats, allowing for a leisurely pace while maintaining safety as the primary consideration.**2. Suggested Route:**Departing from Point Pleasant Beach, navigate north along the coastline through Barnegat Bay and past several local points of interest. The following route will guide you through safe waters, avoiding hazards while providing options for exploration and relaxation along the way.**3. Key Sections of the Route:**- **Leg One: Point Pleasant Beach to Manasquan Inlet (Approx. 6 Nautical Miles)** - Depart from Point Pleasant Beach, keeping an eye on navigational aids such as buoys marking the channel. This leg is relatively straightforward, but watch for fishing vessels and recreational traffic as you approach Manasquan Inlet. - **Point of Interest:** The picturesque town of Manasquan offers charming shops and eateries where you can take a brief break before heading out on your way. - **Leg Two: Manasquan Inlet to Barnegat Bay (Approx. 7 Nautical Miles)** - As you navigate out of the inlet, be cautious of tide changes and currents, especially when approaching Barnegat Bay. This area can be busy, as it is a hotspot for boating and fishing. Look out for the Manasquan River Golf Club on your starboard side as you enter the bay. - **Sailing Tip:** If the weather permits, try to sail instead of motor if you can enjoy the breeze!- **Leg Three: Barnegat Bay to the East River (Approx. 15 Nautical Miles)** - Proceed northwards through the bay, making a note of the channel markers to ensure safe passage. If conditions worsen, you can find shelter in a few coves along the way. Look out for the Barnegat Lighthouse, which provides a beautiful backdrop and a good navigation reference. - **Bays for Shelter:** If weather conditions shift unexpectedly, you may consider diverting to the sheltered waters of Sandy Hook Bay or Raritan Bay, providing calm refuge from rough conditions.- **Leg Four: East River to City Island (Approx. 6 Nautical Miles)** - Upon reaching the East River, follow the navigational aids closely. Beware of increased boat traffic as you approach the busy harbors of New York City. Be mindful of commercial shipping lanes and watch for the Staten Island ferries. - **Point of Interest:** As you enter the waters near City Island, enjoy the views of the skyline, and prepare for a delightful range of seafood restaurants, unique shops, and waterfront parks.**4. Navigational Aids and Local Regulations:**- Regularly check your chart plotter and have a traditional chart as a backup. Most relevant navigational aids will be visible on your route, but be sure to reference local tide tables to account for tidal current changes.- Pay attention to local regulations; some areas may enforce speed limits to protect wildlife or preserve tranquility in residential areas. **5. Safety Considerations:**- Keep a lookout for changing weather patterns, particularly along the coast, as storms can develop quickly. Ensure your VHF radio is operational for real-time updates.- Ample life-saving equipment should be onboard, including life vests, flares, first aid kits, and an anchor in case you need to secure your vessel during adverse weather.**6. Recommended Apps:**- For navigation and planning, utilizing apps such as **savvy navvy**, Navionics, or NOAA Weather can enhance your cruising experience. They offer valuable insights into tide patterns, weather conditions, and local maps to aid your journey.In summary, this boating route from Point Pleasant Beach to City Island provides a splendid blend of adventure and safety, suited for seasoned boaters looking for a fulfilling day on the water. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy a fun and secure trip while navigating New Jersey's beautiful coastal waters.