Staten Island to Babylon by boat

Pilotage Plan for Boat Trip from Staten Island, NY to Babylon, NY

This pilotage plan will guide you from the bustling shores of Staten Island to the serene waterways of Babylon, all while ensuring you remain safe and enjoy the journey. Covering approximately 25 nautical miles, this route is perfect for experienced boaters seeking picturesque landscapes, quiet bays, and worthy landmarks.

Route Overview

You will start your voyage at Staten Island, well-known for its urban charm, and navigate through the New York Harbor, across the Raritan Bay, ultimately arriving at Babylon on Long Island. This journey encompasses a mix of vibrant city life and the natural beauty of the Long Island coastline, making it suitable for seasoned cruisers as well as adventure-seeking weekend warriors.

Section 1: Departure from Staten Island

As you leave Staten Island, it’s essential to monitor your navigation closely. The waters are busy, particularly with commercial vessels due to proximity to Manhattan. Make sure to take a course towards the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, while following the marked channels. The presence of marine traffic is significant, so maintain a vigilant watch for ferries and large ships.

Navigational aids: Keep an eye on the buoys marking the channels and be guided by the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as a prominent landmark.

Section 2: Entering Raritan Bay

After passing beneath the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, you will enter Raritan Bay. This expansive waterway can be challenging with its variable currents and weather conditions. However, it offers several options for shelter:

• Sandy Hook Bay: Positioned to your north, this bay is an excellent option for seeking refuge if the weather should turn inclement. The protected waters here provide safe anchorage and a chance to explore Sandy Hook, a historic destination with beautiful beaches.

As you proceed through Raritan Bay, keep in mind the possibility of sudden squalls during summer months. Ensure your vessel is equipped with adequate safety gear.

Section 3: Heading Towards Babylon

As you make your way southwest along Raritan Bay, you’ll eventually approach the entrance to Great South Bay. This beautiful stretch of water is home to numerous small islands, recreational activities, and fishing spots. Consider taking breaks and enjoying the natural scenery.

Points of Interest:

• Fire Island: Just south of your route, it's worth the detour for a sandy beach day or some hiking in the Fire Island National Seashore. This area is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
• Jones Beach: A popular spot with recreational facilities ideal for a relaxing break.

Section 4: Arrival at Babylon

Your final leg will take you into the Babylon area, where the Great South Bay leads you to the town’s charming waterways. Be cautious of local waterspouts, especially around the mouth of the Babylon Canal.

Upon arrival, the Babylon area offers a variety of attractions:

• Babylon Village: Full of quaint shops, eateries, and parks, making it a lively spot to explore.
• Captree State Park: A perfect area for fishing, with boat slips and a marina to dock.

Navigational Considerations

Along your journey, ensure that you adhere to local regulations, particularly in terms of speed restrictions and anchoring guidelines in these protected waters. Pay particular attention to the marine traffic management and any advisories from local maritime authorities.

Safety Recommendations

Before setting out, ensure your vessel is equipped with:
• Life jackets for all crew members
• First aid kit
• Flare signals
• Emergency communications device such as a VHF radio

Recommended Apps: For added safety, use boating apps to stay informed about weather conditions and navigational aids. A popular choice is Savvy Navvy, which offers comprehensive tools for plot planning and navigation.

Conclusion

This route offers both a delightful boating experience and takes you through some of the most picturesque expanses of Long Island waters. Balancing adventure with safety, it can be enjoyed by experienced boaters who appreciate a sense of freedom on the open water while being mindful of the potential hazards along the way. Enjoy the journey, respect the waters, and make lasting memories in your nautical adventure!