Staten Island to Leonardo by boat

Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Leonardo, NJ

Overview This route from Staten Island, NY to Leonardo, NJ offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, navigable waters, and notable points of interest, ensuring a memorable boating experience while prioritizing safety. The distance between the two points is approximately 15 nautical miles, making it well-suited for both novice and experienced boaters. The waters are generally protected, with ample safe havens should the weather turn unfavorable.

Starting Point: Staten Island, NY You’ll begin your journey at the coordinates 40.54283° N, 74.13983° W, right amidst the charming scenery of Staten Island. Before setting out, it’s wise to check local marine forecasts and conditions, as the waters can be influenced by various factors.

Navigational Aids & Hazards As you exit Staten Island, pay close attention to navigational aids marking the various channels and shoals. The Ambrose Channel is key for maritime traffic, so remain vigilant for larger vessels, especially near the ferry routes. Keep an eye on the Staten Island Ferry approach as well, where high-speed vessels frequently operate.

Points of Interest Along the Route

• Liberty State Park, NJ: As you make your way across the Upper New York Bay, take a moment to appreciate the iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Liberty State Park has ample opportunities to anchor up, stretch your legs, and enjoy a picnic with spectacular views.
• Kill Van Kull: As you pass through the Kill Van Kull, check out the Bayonne Bridge. This area is known for its shipping activity, but also offers fascinating maritime history. Be cautious of the shipping lanes and the associated vessel traffic.

Shelter Bays

• Raritan Bay: Should the weather take a turn, Raritan Bay is a favorable place to seek shelter. It offers multiple inlets and safe anchorages. The water is usually calmer on this side, and you’ll find refuge in places such as the Sandy Hook Bay where the coastline provides good wind protection.

Final Approach to Leonardo, NJ On your final stretch toward Leonardo, at 40.42133° N, 74.06133° W, navigate past the Gateway National Recreation Area, which is a beautiful natural escape with untouched landscapes. Note that this area is a haven for wildlife, so be mindful of local restrictions concerning any wildlife preserves.

Useful Tips

• Safety First: Always keep life jackets readily available for anyone on board and make sure you have a working VHF radio for potential emergency communication.
• Apps for Navigation: Equip yourself with handy boating apps like savvy navvy that offer real-time GPS tracking, and crucial information about tides, weather, and navigational aids right at your fingertips. Other useful apps include Navionics and BoatUS which serve as great supplements.

Conclusion This route from Staten Island to Leonardo is perfect for boaters keen on a short, scenic cruise while balancing the elements of safety. The presence of local attractions and potential sheltered bays transforms it from just a transit journey into an enjoyable excursion. Make sure to enjoy the views, adhere to navigational regulations, and keep an eye on the weather. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced sailor, this trip ensures both safe passage and pleasurable exploration. Happy cruising!