Stamford to City Island by boat

Pilotage Plan from Stamford, Connecticut to City Island, New York

Route Overview

This planned journey from Stamford, Connecticut, to City Island, New York, stretches approximately 20 nautical miles, navigating through the Long Island Sound and offers a delightful mix of beautiful coastal scenery, notable landmarks, and several safe havens should the weather turn. This route is particularly suited for recreational boaters looking for a pleasant day out or those venturing into coastal cruising.

Starting Point: Stamford, Connecticut

Coordinates: Longitude -73.5465, Latitude 41.01716667

As you begin your journey, the bustling Stamford Harbor is a great departure point. The harbor is well-marked and offers amenities such as fuel docks and restaurants, making it an excellent first stop before heading out.

Hazards and Navigation Considerations

1. Stamford Harbor Entrance: Approach the harbor entrance with caution, aware of the boat traffic and underwater structures. Follow local navigation charts and heed buoys and markers, particularly avoiding the shallow areas near the marina.

2. Long Island Sound Conditions: After exiting the harbor, pay attention to weather forecasts. Long Island Sound can have unpredictable winds and conditions; it's wise to stay updated through a reliable app or VHF radio.

3. Buoys and Aids to Navigation: As you make your way east, you will encounter buoys (specifically, the day markers marking the Main Ship Channel). Always stay within the designated navigational channels to avoid hazards such as sandbars and submerged rocks.

Points of Interest Along the Way

• Cove Island Park: On your starboard side, this lovely park offers views and an opportunity to explore. If time permits and the weather is nice, consider stopping here for a leisurely stroll or to have a picnic on the beach.

• Greenwich Harbor: Just a few nautical miles east of Stamford, this picturesque harbor offers a scenic harbor view along with high-end boutiques and restaurants on the shoreline. Look for opportunities to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a stroll alongside the waterfront.

• Great Captain Island Lighthouse: This historical landmark located slightly north of your route is a sight to behold. This small island is perfect for a brief detour and presents a lovely spot for photography from your boat.

Safe Havens

If conditions deteriorate:
• Greenwich Harbor: This is an excellent anchorage spot with available moorings and courtesy docks.
• Old Greenwich: Sheltered by a breakwater, it’s a good place to stay until weather improves.
• Port Chester Bay: A bit off the direct route, but a well-sheltered bay where you can drop anchor.

Approach to City Island, New York

: City Island, NY

: Longitude -73.78833333, Latitude 40.84066667

Upon nearing City Island, you'll notice the idyllic backdrop of maritime life and charming homes. The approach is straightforward, but be mindful of the docks and marinas in this busy area. The City Island bridge should be on your starboard as you enter, a notable geographical feature.

Local Regulations and Important Reminders

• Water Traffic Control: The waters around City Island can be quite busy. Watch for all types of vessels, from pleasure crafts to fishing boats and ferries.

• Speed Restrictions: Pay attention to specific speed limit areas; some sections may impose slow-speed limits to reduce wake and protect marine life.

• Environmental Regulations: Be aware of marine protected areas along the route, particularly within Greenwich bays and around certain shorelines—keeping a respectful distance is crucial.

Conclusion

This cruising plan is crafted to offer both a safe journey and instances of joy along the way. You're inclined to experience stunning views, local charm, and relatively straightforward navigation, all while keeping safety at the forefront. For additional safety, you can navigate using boating apps like Navionics and savvy navvy, both of which provide real-time updates and navigation support. Embrace the adventure ahead, and enjoy your trip to City Island!