**Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Edgewater, NJ****Departure Point: Staten Island, NY (Latitude: 40.5428, Longitude: -74.1398)**As you set sail from Staten Island, you'll embark on a route that encapsulates a blend of urban adventure and serene nautical landscapes. Your journey to Edgewater, NJ is about 10 nautical miles, making it a suitable trip for a half-day outing or a leisurely afternoon sail.### Section 1: Departure from Staten Island**Planning Your Departure:**Before casting off, be sure to check the local weather conditions. Staten Island can experience sudden weather changes, especially in spring and fall. Keep an eye on wind direction and speed, as this can affect your navigation.**Navigational Aids:**- **Staten Island South Ferry Terminal:** Mark this as a significant point; large ferries frequent this area, so give them wide berth and monitor VHF channel 13 for advisories.- **Staten Island Light (52):** Manage your course to keep this light bearing on your port side as you begin navigating north along the coastline.### Section 2: The Route Northward**Key Landmarks and Points of Interest:**- As you head north, you will cross the **Arthur Kill**, a crucial waterway where you'll encounter commercial shipping traffic. Be vigilant and adhere to the nautical charts which indicate the shipping lanes.- **Goose Island:** Right off to the starboard side, a small island that may offer coves for fishing or exploring, though be cautious of shallows.**Bays for Shelter:**If the weather turns unfriendly, you might consider detouring towards **Newark Bay** for shelter. Easily recognizable, this bay provides refuge against strong winds and adverse conditions, equipped with several marinas.### Section 3: Approaching Edgewater**Navigational Considerations:**As you approach Edgewater, make sure to monitor your speed and maintain a safe distance from the shore, particularly near industrial areas. Utilization of your nautical charts as well as real-time navigation apps like **savvy navvy** will provide you crucial information about water depths and any potential hazards.**Port of Entry: Edgewater, NJ**- **Light and Buoys:** Upon nearing Edgewater, you will observe several channel markers guiding you into the edge of the **Hackensack River**. Look for the buoy marking the approach to the waterfront along Edgewater. - Pay attention to **speed limits, especially in the river**, where some sections have a 5 knots maximum to protect the local ecosystem and reduce wash.### Section 4: Arrival and ActivitiesUpon reaching Edgewater, you will find a bustling waterfront with a variety of restaurants and recreational opportunities. Notable sights include:- **James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park:** It offers beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline and is perfect for a shoreline picnic.- **Edgewater Marina:** An ideal spot to dock and restock supplies or refuel. Engage in local activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, which are popular here.### Final Safety TipsAlways prioritize safety on your journey. Keep your life jackets accessible, ensure your boat is equipped with necessary safety equipment, and continuously check for any local regulations or potential hazards as noted by your navigation app or chart.Maintain communication with other boaters and the coast guard as necessary, particularly as you navigate through busier shipping lanes.This route promises both adventure and scenic views, making it perfect for both experienced cruisers and enthusiastic weekend sailors. Enjoy the camaraderie of the boating community and embrace the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks along the Hudson River on this enjoyable jaunt from Staten Island to Edgewater. Safe travels!