### Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Highlands, NJEmbarking on a boat trip from Staten Island to Highlands is not just a journey; it's an experience filled with natural beauty and a taste of coastal culture. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to advanced sailors with a moderate level of experience in navigating busy waterways and coastal regions.#### Departure: Staten Island, NYStarting your journey from Staten Island, preparing your vessel and checking the weather conditions are crucial. The area around Staten Island can experience strong tidal currents and shallows in various spots, so make sure to set off at slack tide whenever possible.**Points of Interest:**- **Staten Island Ferry Terminal:** A great place to admire the iconic skyline of Manhattan before you head out.- **Snug Harbor Cultural Center:** For a quick visit before boarding, this is a beautiful spot rich in history and culture.#### The Route: Navigating the Hudson River and Raritan Bay1. **Leaving Staten Island:** As you depart, navigate carefully through the various shipping lanes near the Arthur Kill and the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge. Keep a sharp lookout for large vessels, as the area is quite busy.2. **Hazards and Landmarks:** - **Sandy Hook Bay:** This is a particularly noteworthy area where the Raritan Bay opens into the Atlantic. Watch for shifting waters and boat traffic from larger vessels. - **Earle Naval Base:** Located on the eastern shore of Sandy Hook, some large vessels may be coming in and out, so maintain a safe distance.3. **Navigational Aids:** Make sure to keep an eye on the navigation buoys, especially near the shipping channels. The **East Coast Navigation Charts** will be invaluable, alongside your GPS capabilities for real-time tracking.4. **Caution Areas:** - **Barnegat Bay:** If your plan entails further adventure, this area can be an excellent return point but has many shallow areas best suited for skiffs. Be cautious of shifting shoals. - Avoid unnecessary maneuvers in congested waters and be aware of the local fishing spots where smaller boats may be present.#### Possible Shelters and Attractions- **Raritan Bay:** Should weather conditions take a turn for the worse, this bay provides several areas to duck in. Keep an eye out for safe docking opportunities in towns like Keyport or Union Beach. - **Keyport:** A charming spot with local eateries and shops. A great place to taste the local seafood and enjoy the waterfront views if you choose to drop anchor here.#### Arrival: Highlands, NJAs you approach Highlands, reduce speed and prepare for docking procedures. It's advisable to check with local marinas about availability and ensure you’re aware of their docking regulations.#### Local Regulations and Final ConsiderationsAs always, adhere to local boating regulations, which include:- Maintaining a proper lookout at all times.- Complying with speed limits in congested areas.- Ensuring life jackets are readily available for all passengers.#### Apps for Safe NavigationFor an enhanced navigation experience, consider using:- **Savvy Navvy** to plot your journey and stay updated on weather conditions.- **US Coast Guard Navigation Tools** for real-time updates on local maritime regulations.- **Navionics** for detailed charts and navigational support.#### ConclusionThis route from Staten Island to Highlands offers a perfect blend of necessary navigation experience, thrilling scenery, and local charm, making it one of the best coastal trips in New Jersey. With careful planning and an eye on safety, this journey can provide not just a transit from point A to B, but a memorable adventure on the water. Whether it's the thrill of navigating between bustling channels or the peace of quietly anchoring in a bay, you're sure to have a remarkable experience. Safe travels!