**Pilotage Plan: Sag Harbor, NY to Providence, RI****Departure from Sag Harbor, NY**Your adventure begins in the charming village of Sag Harbor, located on the eastern end of Long Island. This picturesque harbor is a perfect starting point, offering facilities for refueling and provisioning. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is in optimal condition and double-check your safety equipment—life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit should all be on board. Additionally, it's wise to check the local weather forecasts to plan for any potential changes in conditions as you traverse the waters.**Route Overview**The journey from Sag Harbor to Providence spans approximately 75 nautical miles and takes you through some stunning coastal waters and scenic landscapes. This route is suitable for recreational boaters and has ample options for larger vessels, though the waters can be challenging at times. **Points of Interest & Shelter Locations**1. **Three Mile Harbor**: Just a few nautical miles from Sag Harbor, this is an excellent first waypoint. The harbor is spacious and provides a good shelter from adverse weather conditions. It’s also a great spot to relax if you decide to stretch your journey across two days. 2. **East Hampton**: This nearby inlet offers beautiful beaches and a chance to explore local shops, making it worthy of a brief stop. 3. **Gardiner’s Bay**: The wide-open waters of Gardiner's Bay are often calm but monitor the winds. Be vigilant of boat traffic and local fishermen. 4. **Block Island Sound**: As you circumvent the tip of Long Island towards Block Island Sound, plan your route carefully; currents and tidal changes can create challenging conditions. This area is renowned for its fishing opportunities and stunning views.5. **Napatree Point**: As you enter the waters off Watch Hill, RI, Napatree Point is an iconic stopping point with beautiful sandy shores. If you choose to anchor here, it's a fitting pitstop for a picnic and a swim, depending on the weather.6. **Point Judith**: This major navigational landmark is essential to locate as you approach the entrance to Narragansett Bay. The harbor at Point Judith also offers protection if conditions worsen. 7. **Narragansett Bay**: Entering the bay, you’ll encounter several islands—such as Dutch Island and the very scenic Conanicut Island, which is fun for a day trip.**Important Navigational Aids**Navigational aids along this route will be crucial, especially around the busy or hazardous sections. Ensure your chart plotter is updated:- **Buoyage Systems**: Pay attention to the starboard markers, particularly around the Thimble Islands and Fishers Island Sound. The Red Right Returning rule will guide you in keeping to the correct channels.- **Lighthouses**: Key lighthouses to note include Montauk Point Light (located south of your route) and the Point Judith Lighthouse. These will be pivotal in navigating the coastal hazards.**Local Restrictions and Regulations**As with all boating trips, adherence to local regulations is paramount for safety and environmental protection:- **Speed Limits**: Observe posted speed limits, especially in crowded areas.- **Fishing Licenses**: If you plan to fish, make sure you have the necessary licenses for both NY and RI waters.- **Anchoring Regulations**: Be mindful of designated anchoring areas in both Sag Harbor and Providence to prevent damage to local marine habitats.**Conclusion**As you embark on this maritime journey from Sag Harbor to Providence, take time to enjoy the scenic beauty and wonders nature offers, but always remain vigilant. This route caters to experienced boaters looking for coastal exploration and natural beauty, but it demands respect for the elements and the sea. Make sure to utilize modern boating apps such as Savvy Navvy and Navionics for up-to-date GPS navigation and charts, providing you real-time conditions and assistance throughout your journey. Have an incredible trip, safe travels, and smooth seas ahead!