Swansea to Wakefield by boat

Pilotage Plan from Swansea, Massachusetts to Wakefield, Rhode Island

Overview

Embarking on a boat trip from Swansea, MA to Wakefield, RI offers a delightful journey through coastal New England, ideal for intermediate boaters who enjoy a blend of stretches on open water and opportunities for exploration. The route showcases beautiful scenery, charming coastal towns, and safe havens in case the weather takes a turn.

Route Outline

• Departure Point: Swansea, MA
• Destination Point: Wakefield, RI

Sections of the Route:

1. Swansea to Mount Hope Bay - Distance: Approximately 5 nautical miles - Navigation Considerations: Depart from Swansea and head east toward the entrance of Mount Hope Bay. Keep an eye on the NOAA charts to avoid shallow areas. After leaving Swansea, position yourself to align with the navigational markers leading into Mount Hope Bay. Be aware of the Sakonnet Point Lighthouse located at the east entrance, a key visual reference. - Point of Interest: The bay itself is a beautiful area to pause and soak in the scenery. If you feel up for a stop, the nearby town of Bristol, RI, offers historic sites and lovely waterfront parks.

2. Mount Hope Bay to the Sakonnet River - Distance: Approximately 3 nautical miles - Navigation Considerations: As you navigate through Mount Hope Bay, look for the clearly marked channels to follow. The Sakonnet River is a busy channel; thus, stay clear of any commercial traffic and adhere to the speed limits in specific sectors. The river is prone to currents, especially during tidal changes. - Shelter Option: If needed, you can find shelter in one of the coves on the east side of the river.

3. Sakonnet River to Point Judith - Distance: Approximately 7 nautical miles - Navigation Considerations: The Sakonnet River leads you to the open waters towards Point Judith. Stay vigilant for navigational buoys marking the shipping channels. Watch for recreational fishing boats - this area is popular for fishing, and some might be unmarked. - Points of Interest: Point Judith Light is a notable landmark and serves as a great photographic opportunity. The waters around here also open into picturesque vistas.

4. Point Judith to Wakefield - Distance: Approximately 6 nautical miles - Navigation Considerations: As you approach Wakefield, you transition back into calmer sections of water. The route from Point Judith is relatively straightforward. Keep track of the channel markers as you enter the Narrow River, where you will find the entrance to Wakefield. Be cautious of the changes in tides and shallow areas within the mouth. - End Point: Arriving in Wakefield, you can dock at the local marinas. Great sights include waterfront dining options and local shops.

Navigational Aids & Regulations

• Important Aids: Pay close attention to the various buoys and markers throughout, particularly the red right returning navigational rule (keeping red buoys on your right when heading back towards the harbor).
• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local boating regulations regarding fishing permits and anchoring restrictions in specific areas, particularly around the river mouths and points of interest. Maintain a safe speed, especially near populated areas.

Safety and Weather Considerations

• Weather Monitoring: Carry a reliable weather radio (or use boating apps, such as Savvy Navvy) to keep updated on changing conditions.
• Emergency Shelter Locations: Be aware of the bays and larger coves where you can find emergency shelter, should weather conditions worsen.
• Safety Gear: Ensure you have appropriate life jackets, a fully stocked first aid kit, and emergency flares. Always maintain communications via a VHF radio throughout the trip.

Conclusion

This pilotage plan provides a fantastic opportunity for intermediate boaters to explore the beautiful waters between Swansea, Massachusetts, and Wakefield, Rhode Island. It offers suitable navigation strategies with required safety measures, coupled with tempting points of interest for a fun yet secure boating experience. With the right precautions in place, this trip is bound to be memorable while instilling a sense of adventure and exploration in the beautiful coastal New England.