Staten Island to Bayside by boat

Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Bayside, NY

Overview of the RouteThis route from Staten Island to Bayside takes you through a vibrant slice of the New York metropolitan waterways, showcasing both natural beauty and urban charm. Covering approximately 18 nautical miles, this trip is perfect for experienced boaters who can handle some coastal navigation, offering opportunities to explore sheltered bays, enjoy picturesque views, and stop at interesting landmarks along the way.

• --

Starting Point: Staten Island, NY Coordinates: 40.5428° N, 74.1398° W Launch from one of the several marinas on Staten Island, such as Great Kills Harbor or any local marina offering transient slips. Make sure to check in for local marine notices before setting out, as marine traffic can be busy.

Navigational Considerations:

• Safety Gear: Ensure you have all required safety equipment onboard, including life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
• Weather Check: Prior to departure, consult the latest weather forecasts and sea conditions.
• Traffic Management: Be mindful of ferry routes and shipping lanes, especially around the Staten Island Ferry route.

• --

Key Staging Points:

1. Great Kills Harbor - A well-defined harbor with good shelter should you need to take a break or wait out inclement weather. There is ample space for anchorage, and various amenities nearby.

2. Raritan Bay - After leaving Staten Island, you'll enter Raritan Bay. Keep a lookout for navigational buoys that guide vessels safely through the area. You may experience more chop in this open water, so adjust your course and speed accordingly.

3. Marine Park - As you head toward the Jamaica Bay area, you'll pass by Marine Park. This can be an excellent area to explore, as it offers natural sights and a serene environment, making it a potential stopping point for eco-tours or simply enjoying nature.

• --

Points of Interest Along the Route:

• Sandy Hook, NJ: A notable landmark, this point of land offers views of historic military forts and beaches if you're looking for a side trip to explore.
• Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: A fantastic opportunity to take a break, stretch your legs, and witness the rich bird life this sanctuary has to offer.

• --

Approaching Bayside, NY

As you near your destination, you'll navigate through the bustling waters around the Throgs Neck Bridge. This area can be quite busy, so keep your radar and lookout active:

• Throgs Neck and Whitestone Bridges: Pay close attention to the clearance heights and any restrictions due to tide. Large vessels frequent these waters, so stay alert to avoid collisions.

Ending Point: Bayside, NY Coordinates: 40.7795° N, 73.7682° W Bayside has several marinas catering to transient visitors. It’s a fantastic final destination, featuring waterfront dining, parks, and local attractions.

• --

Safety and Regulatory Considerations:

• Navigational Aids: Keep an eye on the various markers and buoys throughout the route, which are critical for safe navigation. Use your charts in conjunction with electronic navigation tools.
• Local Regulations: Be sure to adhere to any local boating regulations, including speed limits and no-wake zones, especially in marinas and near residential areas.

• --

Recommended Apps:

• Savvy Navvy: This app will help with route planning, tide and current predictions, and real-time weather updates, ensuring you're always navigating safely.
• Navionics: Offers a comprehensive set of charts and community-sourced information.
• Windy: Perfect for checking wind conditions and weather patterns along your route.

• --

This journey from Staten Island to Bayside is beautifully packed with interesting sights and places to explore, while also requiring attentiveness to local conditions and navigation. Enjoy the experience, take your time, and ensure safety remains your top priority throughout this captivating waterway adventure!