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South Boston to Danvers by boat

South Boston to Danvers

Distance - 24.1 Nm

Avg Speed
5 kts
10 kts
20 kts
30 kts
Time Estimate
4 hr 48 min
2 hr 24 min
1 hr 12 min
0 hr 48 min
South Boston to Danvers

South Boston to Danvers

Pilotage Plan: South Boston, MA to Danvers, MA

Overview

This itinerary will take you from South Boston, a vibrant urban waterfront city, to Danvers, a quaint town with rich history along the North Shore of Massachusetts. The journey offers a mix of bustling urban scenery and serene coastal landscapes, all while prioritizing safety and enjoying the beauty of New England waters. This route is ideal for seasoned recreational boaters looking for a leisurely trip that balances enjoyment with navigation precision.

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Starting Point: South Boston, MA

    Begin your adventure at the bustling marina in South Boston. Before casting off, ensure that you’re aware of local regulations, including any restrictions on anchoring or mooring in public spaces. Here, you’ll find various amenities, fuel docks, and marine services that can prepare you for your trip. As you set sail, be mindful of commercial traffic and recreational vessels, especially in this active harbor environment.

Navigation Tip: Keep an eye on the navigational aids, particularly the buoys marking the channel. The busy waters of Boston Harbor can be challenging, so remain vigilant as you navigate out into the open water.

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Legs of the Journey

1. Boston Harbor to Deer Island

  • Distance: Approximately 3 nautical miles.
  • Navigational Aids: Pay attention to the Deer Island Light and the charted buoys. Staying within marked channels is paramount; the harbor floor is riddled with rocks and off-limits areas.
  • Points of Interest: Deer Island offers picturesque views and historical significance, perfect for a brief stop if time permits.

Hazard Awareness: The rapid current around Deer Island can be a challenge if you arrive close to the tidal changes, so plan your timing accordingly.

Sheltering Bay: If weather conditions turn unfavorable, Boston Harbor has several coves where you can seek refuge.

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2. Deer Island to Winthrop

  • Distance: About 2 nautical miles.
  • Navigational Aids: The inner harbor can be tricky; focus on your charts and electronic navigation systems. The Mason's Island and the high rock formations around this area can block your view.
  • Points of Interest: Winthrop Beach is a lovely spot to take a short break; enjoy the sandy shoreline and local eateries.

Hazard Awareness: Be cautious of the shallow waters near the beach and the sandbars that can shift with the tides.

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3. Winthrop to Lynn Harbor

  • Distance: Approximately 5 nautical miles.
  • Navigational Aids: The approach to Lynn involves passing by the Lynn Harbor Light. Watch out for any local fishing vessels as this can be a popular area for anglers.
  • Points of Interest: The Lynn Shore Reservation is a beautiful area of coastline, ideal for taking pictures or enjoying the scenery before continuing on.

Sheltering Bay: Lynn Harbor offers additional shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

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4. Lynn Harbor to Salem Sound

  • Distance: Roughly 4 nautical miles.
  • Navigational Aids: Keep track of markers around the entrance to Salem, particularly around the historic Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
  • Points of Interest: Salem is famed for its witch trial history, and you can opt for a leisurely stop here to explore or grab lunch.

Hazard Awareness: Pay attention to local water traffic and watch out for any boats associated with the tourist trade.

Sheltering Bay: Salem Harbor can offer adequate shelter should a storm threaten.

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5. Salem Sound to Danvers

  • Distance: Approximately 3 nautical miles.
  • Navigational Aids: Follow the designated channels while keeping a lookout for visibility markers and the Danvers River emergence. This area may have fluctuating water levels, particularly with the tides.
  • Points of Interest: Upon reaching Danvers, don’t miss the historic sites like the Danvers State Hospital or the local parks, perfect for a relaxing end to your journey.
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Safety Consideration

    Before embarking, ensure your vessel is seaworthy, equipped with essential safety gear including life jackets, a sound signaling device, and a first aid kit. Check local marine weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for sudden changes typical of coastal conditions.
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Recommended Apps

    To enhance your navigation experience, consider using the following apps:
  • Savvy Navvy: Provides excellent route planning and real-time weather updates.
  • Navionics: Useful for detailed charts and navigational support.
  • Weather Underground: For accurate and localized weather forecasts on the go.

Conclusion

This route from South Boston to Danvers is rich in scenic beauty and historical context, providing recreational boaters with a delightful mix of safe navigation and opportunities to explore unique coastal towns. By adhering to safety measures and keeping an eye on local conditions, you’ll enjoy a memorable experience cruising along this beautiful stretch of Massachusetts' coastline.