**Pilotage Plan: Staten Island, NY to Wantagh, NY****Overview** This journey from Staten Island to Wantagh offers a fascinating nautical adventure, showcasing the beauty of New York’s waterways while keeping safety at the forefront. The trip stretches approximately 25 nautical miles and is particularly suited for intermediate to experienced boaters who are comfortable navigating both busy waterways and sheltered bays.**Starting Point: Staten Island, New York** - **Coordinates:** Lat 40.5428333, Long -74.1398333 - **Departure:** Before setting off, conduct a thorough check of your vessel, ensuring all safety gear is aboard, including life jackets, flares, and a proper first-aid kit.**Leg 1: Navigating the Arthur Kill** As you depart Staten Island, you will enter the Arthur Kill, which separates Staten Island from New Jersey. Keep an eye on shipping traffic, as this waterway can be busy with commercial vessels. - **Hazards:** Watch for strong currents, especially during tidal changes. - **Navigational Aids:** Look for buoys marking the channels, particularly the red and green lateral markers that will guide your way.**Shelter Stop:** If weather conditions deteriorate, you can find refuge in the nearby Perth Amboy, NJ, which offers reasonable shelter and basic amenities.**Leg 2: Raritan Bay** Once you emerge from the Arthur Kill, you’ll venture into Raritan Bay, a large body of water that provides an expansive view of the horizon. This part of the trip is marked by scenic shorelines.- **Points of Interest:** On the western shore, you can spot Sandy Hook, which offers beautiful beaches and historical forts. It’s a great spot for a quick anchor if time permits.- **Safety Note:** Be aware of shifting currents and watch for recreational boaters and fishermen.**Leg 3: Navigating to Jamaica Bay** Continuing from Raritan Bay, you will head towards Jamaica Bay, making your way through the narrow shipping lanes and past the bustling Brooklyn waterfront. Here’s where you need to pay particular attention to navigational aids and local traffic.- **Navigational Aids:** Make sure to follow the marked channels, as there are many shallow areas in Jamaica Bay. Use your depth sounder to monitor water levels, especially around the bay's entrances.**Shelter Stop:** Jamaica Bay itself offers several inlets, including Broad Channel, which is ideal for taking shelter in bad weather. There are also numerous bird sanctuaries and parks to explore when conditions are favorable.**Leg 4: Approaching Wantagh** As you exit Jamaica Bay, keep the Great South Bay to your side. Stay parallel to the coastline, as this is a popular area for yachts and fishing boats. The approach to Wantagh allows you to enjoy a more serene environment.- **Hazards:** Be alert for sandbars and keep a close watch on the weather as it can change rapidly in the Great South Bay.**Final Destination: Wantagh, New York** - **Coordinates:** Lat 40.6448333, Long -73.5151666667 - **Arrival:** Once you reach Wantagh, you'll find beautiful parks and recreational areas along the waterfront to explore. It's a serene and friendly boating community, perfect for relaxation after your cruise.**Important Regulations** - Be sure to familiarize yourself with local boating regulations. Both New York State and local municipalities have specific guidelines regarding speed limits in certain zones and no-wake areas, particularly around marinas and residential areas. **Recommended Boating Apps** For navigation and safety, consider using apps like Navionics, Boating Suite, and, importantly, **Savvy Navvy** for easy route planning and to access live data, which helps to enhance your overall experience on the water.This trip not only provides safety and beautiful vistas but combines the thrill of navigation with potential explorations, making it an ideal outing for boaters eager to discover the New York coastline. Remember, always prioritize safety, and enjoy every moment on the water!