### Pilotage Plan: Port Washington, NY to Staten Island, NYEmbarking on your journey from Port Washington to Staten Island offers a blend of beautiful coastal scenery, remarkable landmarks, and vital navigation considerations. This pilotage plan will guide you through a safe and enjoyable passage while highlighting essential points along the way.#### Route OverviewStarting from **Port Washington**, you'll head southwest, skirting the coast of Long Island, making your way through the bustling waters of New York Harbor before reaching **Staten Island**. This trip is ideal for intermediate to experienced boaters, especially those comfortable with navigating through busy channels and accustomed to changing weather conditions.#### Hazards and Navigation Considerations1. **Port Washington to Western Long Island Sound**: - As you exit Port Washington, be mindful of commercial traffic. The nearby ferry terminal is busy with both ferries and recreational boats. Pay close attention to the navigational aids such as buoys marking the channels. - The area can have shoals, particularly near the North Shore, so keep to the marked deep-water routes. 2. **Western Long Island Sound**: - Monitor surroundings for any private and commercial vessels, especially heading through the Execution Rocks area. This is critical as the channel can become crowded. - **Execution Rocks Lighthouse** serves as a useful reference point. Maintain a safe distance, as the waters around it are heavily trafficked. 3. **Navigating into New York Harbor**: - Approaching the harbor requires heightened awareness of commercial shipping lanes. Maintain a lookout for cargo ships, tankers, and cruise ships, all of which can be unexpected due to their size and navigation speed. - Key navigational aids such as buoys and beacons will assist in safe passage, particularly when crossing between Westchester Creek and the Arthur Kill.#### Points of Interest Along the Route1. **Sands Point Preserve**: - Just past Port Washington, consider a quick detour for a scenic stop at Sands Point. The picturesque views and hiking trails are worthwhile, and it allows a chance to enjoy some time in nature.2. **Manhasset Bay**: - Should inclement weather occur, Manhasset Bay offers calm waters surrounded by numerous marinas, making it an ideal shelter spot. The Bay is also home to several restaurants and parks if you decide to linger longer.3. **City Island**: - A charming stopover known for its seafood restaurants and quaint shops. It's a favorite among boaters and offers a great chance to stretch your legs and sample the local fare.4. **Staten Island Ferry Terminal**: - As you approach Staten Island, enjoy the views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. The Ferry terminal itself gives you the chance to dock and explore the island’s rich history and parks.#### Navigational Aids and Regulations- **Important Aids**: Keep an eye on the **Hudson River and East River channels’ markers**; notable for their day and night visibility, they guide boats safely through these busy waterways.- **Regulations**: Familiarize yourself with local speed zones, particularly around heavily populated areas and marinas where lower speeds are strictly enforced to protect paddlers and swimmers.- **Communication**: Consult your VHF radio for channel updates on traffic, especially when entering New York Harbor. This is crucial for safe crossing where many vessels converge.#### ConclusionThis route from **Port Washington** to **Staten Island** is perfect for any seasoned boater looking for a balance of adventure and safety. Along with your maritime skills, leverage boating apps like **Savvy Navvy** to uphold your navigation standards, ensuring efficient route planning and real-time updates. Remember, safety should come first, but with careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your journey will certainly be memorable. Safe travels!