Salisbury to Plymouth by boat

Pilotage Plan: Salisbury, Massachusetts to Plymouth, Massachusetts

Route OverviewThe journey from Salisbury, Massachusetts, to Plymouth, Massachusetts, covers a distance of approximately 25 nautical miles along the picturesque coastline of the North Shore. This route is particularly suitable for cruising sailors and experienced powerboaters, offering a blend of scenic vistas, historical landmarks, and safe havens along the way.

Starting Point: Salisbury, Massachusetts

• Launch at Salisbury Beach State Reservation, which has a ramp for boats and immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean. Be aware of the tidal changes as they can affect launching times.

Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest:1. Plum Island: As you depart from Salisbury, enjoy the view of Plum Island. This barrier island is home to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which is perfect for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.2. Newburyport: While not directly on the route, Newburyport is just south of the Merrimack River's entrance and an interesting detour. This charming coastal town boasts maritime history, shopping, and restaurants.3. Salisbury Marsh: Keep an eye out for the expansive marshlands, great for wildlife observation and photography as you navigate southward along the shore.

Mid-Route Considerations:

• As you make your way down the coast, monitor the weather closely, particularly wind and tides, as these can change swiftly.
• The area is generally well-marked, but take note of buoys indicating safe passages and rocks, particularly around the Gale Force Shoal.
• Utilize navigational aids such as Lighthouses like the Cape Ann Lighthouse, which can be a reliable point of reference along with GPS systems.

Shelters/Friendly Bays:1. Ipswich Bay: Midway through your journey, Ipswich Bay serves as a great refuge in case of bad weather. It’s broad enough to provide safe anchorage, and the scenic beauty is nothing short of amazing while you ride out any storms.2. Annisquam River: Should the weather turn south, the Annisquam River provides multiple points for shelter and facilities nearby.

Navigational Aids and Hazards:

• Tides can be quite significant in this area; plan your travel times around them. The tidal currents can be strong, especially near the mouth of the Merrimack River, so approach with caution.
• Look out for local boats and fishing activity, particularly around popular fishing spots as you approach Cape Cod Bay.

End Location: Plymouth, Massachusetts

• Arrive at the historic Plymouth Harbor, deep within the scenic inlet. Home to the Mayflower II and Plymouth Rock, this area provides ample opportunities for sightseeing and docking facilities.
• The harbor is well-equipped for visitor amenities, offering safe berths for boats and nearby restaurants to enjoy local seafood delicacies.

Apps and References for Safe Navigation:For the best experience on your trip, consider downloading navigation apps. Savvy Navvy is especially recommended for its user-friendly interface, providing charts, tide information, and route planning tools, ensuring your journey is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Other useful apps might include Navionics for nautical charts and weather overlays.

This cruise along the North Shore presents a wonderful opportunity for the boater to explore, whether for a leisurely day trip or a longer adventure. With careful planning and vigilance to navigational aids and weather conditions, this route promises safety and enjoyment—or an escape into Massachusetts’s beautiful maritime history.