Port Washington to Bronx by boat

Pilotage Plan from Port Washington, NY to Bronx, NY

Departure: Port Washington, NY Coordinates: -73.728, 40.8262

Begin your journey in Port Washington, a charming waterfront village known for its vibrant marina and scenic views of Long Island Sound. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is adequately stocked with supplies and that all safety gear is onboard and functioning. Check the weather forecast and tidal times; plan to leave at high tide if possible to maximize your draft and reduce grounding risks.

Route Overview The journey from Port Washington to Bronx is approximately 25 nautical miles, primarily following the northern coastline of Little Neck Bay, entering the East River, and ending in the Bronx River.

Notable Bays for Shelter 1. Little Neck Bay: Just south of your departure point, Little Neck Bay serves as a great shelter option. The bay provides calm waters protected from prevailing winds, ideal for anchoring if weather conditions worsen.

2. Throgs Neck Bay: As you approach the Bronx, Throgs Neck Bay offers another outstanding shelter. Its deeper waters provide a refuge from potential squalls.

Points of Interest and Landmarks 1. Welwyn Wastewater Treatment Plant - As you navigate through the northern boundary of Hempstead Harbor, you'll pass near this facility where several large vessels can be seen coming in and out, which can be entertaining for those interested in maritime operations.

2. Fort Totten Park - A historical fort and military installation located at the mouth of the East River. This park also offers beautiful views of the city skyline and is accessible by boat, providing a possible excursion point if you choose to explore further.

3. City Island - This quaint island community is famous for its seafood restaurants and vibrant maritime culture. It’s a great spot for a little detour. Ensure to keep an eye out for local fishing vessels and sailboats while navigating there.

Navigational Aids and Considerations

• Navigational Buoys: Pay careful attention to the navigational buoys, especially in the Little Neck Bay and the East River, as they will guide you through channels and warn of shallows. The "G" and "R" buoys will help navigate out of Hempstead Harbor toward the East River.

• Vessel Traffic: Monitor AIS to keep track of larger vessels when transiting through busy areas, particularly in the East River, where ferry traffic can be heavy, and large container ships enter at the Upper New York Bay.

• Tidal Currents: Be mindful of strong tidal currents, especially around the Throgs Neck Bridge and towards the Bronx River. Plan your passage around slack tide to minimize the effects of current during your transit.

Local Regulations and Restrictions Ensure compliance with all local regulations. Keep speed limits in mind, particularly when nearing residential areas—most waterways have speed restrictions to protect marine life and ensure the safety of small craft.

• Manatee Zones: If you’re enjoying the leisurely scenic route, maintain a lookout for manatee zones indicated by posted signs and buoys. These areas require extreme caution and reduced speed.

• No Wake Zones: Within harbors and near residential areas, adhere strictly to no wake zone regulations to ensure the safety of the local community and to conserve the integrity of the waterfront properties.

Arrival: Bronx, NY Coordinates: -73.7925, 40.8572

As you approach the Bronx, follow the navigational aids carefully around the entry to the Bronx River. This area is subject to shallow waters, requiring caution. Once you've arrived, enjoy the urban waterfront, and take time to explore the vibrant area that merges the hustle of city living with the charm of watersside activities.

Conclusion This route promises a good mix of scenic views, local maritime culture, and the thrill of city navigation. It is particularly suitable for intermediate boaters who are comfortable with navigating through urban environments while being prepared to respond to sudden changes in weather and tidal conditions. A reliable navigation app like savvy navvy will enhance your journey, allowing you to keep track of tides, currents, and hazards in real-time. Be sure to have your smartphone charged and your app of choice ready for a safe and enjoyable adventure on the water!