### Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Merrick, NY#### Start Point: Staten Island, NYCoordinates: Long: -74.1398333333, Lat: 40.5428333333#### End Point: Merrick, NYCoordinates: Long: -73.5396666667, Lat: 40.6426666667---### Route OverviewThis waterfront adventure takes you from the diverse and bustling shores of Staten Island to the more tranquil coastline of Merrick, NY. The route is approximately 30 nautical miles long and is suitable for recreational boaters with intermediate to advanced skills, as it requires navigating busy waters, respecting local regulations, and being aware of tidal conditions.---### Notable Points of Interest & Sheltering Bays1. **Staten Island**: Before leaving, explore some local attractions such as the Staten Island Ferry, which provides a scenic view of the Manhattan skyline if you haven't experienced it yet.2. **Great Kills Harbor (SP)**: After exiting the Arthur Kill, consider making a stop at Great Kills Harbor. It's a sheltered area perfect for taking a break, having lunch, or waiting out inclement weather. The harbor is surrounded by parks and offers amenities that can cater to families.3. **Sandy Hook Bay (SP)**: Upon crossing the Lower New York Bay, you can divert slightly to Sandy Hook Bay for another excellent shelter should you need it. The Cape May/Lewes Ferry and regional fishing charters frequent these waters, adding to the vibrant maritime backdrop.4. **Navesink River (Optional Stop)**: If you have extra time and want a scenic detour, you can visit the Navesink River, known for its stunning waterside homes and beautiful scenery. A choice for those who enjoy picturesque settings and extra leisure time.5. **Merrick and Surrounding Areas**: The final destination, Merrick, offers beaches, parks, and quaint local shops. A celebration at Merrick's waterfront restaurants could be a delightful way to conclude your journey.---### Navigational ConsiderationsAs you embark on your journey, here are some critical navigational elements to consider:- **Channel Markers**: Pay close attention to the navigation markers as you cross the Lower New York Bay and head towards the channels approaching Merrick. Maintain the recommended distances from all channel markers as set forth in maritime regulations.- **Tide Currents**: Familiarize yourself with the tide tables before departing. The tidal currents in these areas can create challenging conditions, especially around the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Jamaica Bay. Aim to time your travels to coincide with favorable tides, reducing overall travel time and workload.- **Shipping Traffic**: Expect a fair amount of commercial shipping and ferry traffic, especially near Staten Island and as you approach the New York Harbor. Maintain an appropriate distance and heed the right-of-way rules.- **Weather Monitoring**: Always check marine forecasts before and during your trip. Being prepared for rapidly changing weather patterns is crucial for safety on the water.---### Safety FirstWhile the journey has its fun spots, prioritizing safety is key:- **Life Jackets**: Ensure all passengers have access to properly fitted life jackets and that they are worn at all times while underway.- **Emergency Equipment**: Check that you have all the required safety gear, including a fire extinguisher, flares, a first aid kit, and an operable VHF radio for communication.- **Navigation Apps**: Using navigation aids such as GPS devices is pivotal while on a boating route like this. Consider utilizing applications like **Savvy Navvy**, which helps in route planning and can alert you to nearby hazards and conditions in real-time. Other useful apps include Navionics and MarineTraffic for real-time data on marine traffic.---This route from Staten Island to Merrick not only showcases the natural beauty of New York’s coastal waters but also emphasizes the importance of safety and navigation skill. Enjoy your journey, stay safe, and soak in the remarkable scenery that New York’s waterways have to offer!