**Pilotage Plan for Trip from Port Washington, NY to Huntington, NY**Embarking on this captivating journey from Port Washington to Huntington along the North Shore of Long Island offers visually stunning landscapes along the way, rich nautical history, and several safe havens for unexpected weather changes. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters since it blends scenic navigation with a few areas that require careful pilotage.### Departure from Port Washington**Starting Point: Port Washington, NY (40.8261666667, -73.728)**You’ll begin in the heart of Port Washington, a bustling waterfront community. Before leaving the marina, it’s prudent to check the latest weather updates and tide tables. The waters around Port Washington are typically well-marked, but being vigilant about local vessel traffic is crucial.### Along the Route: Notable Points of Interest1. **Manhasset Bay**: As you depart from Port Washington, your first encounter is with Manhasset Bay. This is a lovely area to anchor if conditions worsen. The Bay is relatively sheltered and offers several marinas and restaurants. You can take a pit stop to enjoy a meal or explore the beautiful waterfront parks like North Hempstead Beach Park.2. **Sands Point**: Almost immediately after leaving the bay, glance to your right to see the impressive Sands Point Historic Society, which showcases the region's history. From the water, the estate's architecture adds to the picturesque backdrop, making it a delightful sight for any boater.3. **Execution Rocks Lighthouse**: Continuing your journey towards Huntington, pay attention as you approach the Execution Rocks Lighthouse (Nautical Chart #12334), located off the coast of Sands Point. It’s a significant navigational marker, easily identified from a distance, and is well worth a photo opportunity. Stay at least 500 yards away as per maritime regulations.4. **Little Neck Bay**: As you navigate through these waters, consider stopping in Little Neck Bay if the weather turns unfriendly. This bay provides sufficient shelter and is just a short jaunt from the bustling city vibe, granting you a moment of quiet and respite.### Navigational Considerations**Navigational Aids**: As you head northwest towards Huntington, keep an eye on the navigational aids, especially the buoys marking the Inwood and the Cold Spring values. These aids are crucial, particularly around the busy shipping lanes entering and exiting the East River. **Local Regulations**: Be mindful of speed restrictions in and around both Manhasset and Little Neck Bays, where local regulations help safeguard the local boating populace as well as wildlife within the waters.### Arrival at Huntington**Destination: Huntington, NY (40.8855, -73.4188333333)**As you approach Huntington from the west side, you’ll glide past the picturesque waterfront views of Huntington Harbor. The harbor is bustling with activity, including fishing boats, yachts, and waterfront dining options that offer excellent local cuisine. Huntington is known for its vibrant arts scene and various events. If time allows, consider a short land visit to explore local parks like Heckscher Park or check for any cultural activities happening in the area. The harbor is well-marked and navigable, making it an easy destination for any kind of boater.### Safety and CommunicationPrioritize safety by staying informed about changing weather conditions and ensure your navigation equipment—like charts and GPS—is up-to-date. A recommended app for navigation and maritime information is Savvy Navvy, which provides real-time updates to help you safely maneuver your route. In concluding this pilotage plan, the trip from Port Washington to Huntington combines the best of recreational boating with safety and practicality. The journey offers a sense of adventure while ensuring you have the necessary precautions in place for a fulfilling day on the water. Enjoy your adventure!