Toms River to Barnegat by boat

Pilotage Plan: Toms River, NJ to Barnegat, NJ

Departure Point: Toms River, NJ Coordinates: Long -74.1113, Lat 40.0138

Your journey begins at Toms River, a renowned starting point for many boaters. As you prepare to leave, ensure that you check the local weather conditions and highlight any changing tides that may affect your navigation. The Toms River offers ample docking facilities and services should you need last-minute provisions.

First Segment of the Journey: Toms River to Barnaget Bay

Embarking from Toms River, you will navigate northeast toward the Toms River Inlet. Exercise caution as you approach the inlet; visibility can change rapidly due to shifting winds and currents. The waters here can be busy with recreational vessels especially during weekends.

Once you’ve successfully made it through the inlet, head towards Barnaget Bay. The bay provides an open and spacious area that’s relatively sheltered, offering a great spot to take a break. Barnaget Bay is famous for its scenic beauty and wildlife - keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and various waterfowl. Consider dropping anchor for a leisurely lunch or to simply soak in the view.

Points of Interest in Barnaget Bay:

• Island Beach State Park: Located directly across the bay, this pristine coastal park is perfect for a quick excursion to enjoy the sandy shore and trails.
• Barnegat Lighthouse: A significant landmark that stands on the northern tip of the bay, this historic site offers spectacular views from the top and can be a thrilling destination for boater excursions.

Second Segment of the Journey: Navigating Barnegat Inlet

As you move towards Barnegat Inlet, be on the lookout for the navigational aids and markers guiding your path. The inlet can be tricky with shifting sandbars, particularly around low tide. It’s crucial to consult updated charts and, when possible, local tide tables. This area can be less forgiving for inexperienced boaters, so stay aware of your surrounding boats and be ready to adjust your course as needed.

The inlet itself is breathtaking. Once you pass through, you emerge into the Atlantic—a beautiful reward for your caution and skill. If the sea starts to kick up during your return trip, the Barnegat Inlet is an excellent spot to seek safe harbor.

Approaching Barnegat, NJ

After navigating through the inlet and back into the calmer waters of Barnegat Bay, make your way towards Barnegat, NJ. Here, you’ll find community docks and excellent amenities for docking. Barnegat's waterfront offers a vibrant local scene with restaurants and shops.

Important Navigational Aids and Considerations:

• Channel Markers: Follow the marked channels carefully, paying close attention to buoys and ensure they’re on your port or starboard side as indicated.
• Local Restrictions: Be aware that some areas have “no wake” zones, especially near the waterfront communities. Keeping to specified speed limits not only promotes safety but also maintains good relations with local residents.

Shelter Spots During Inclement Weather:In case the weather turns unfavorable, head back to Barnaget Bay where you can find several nooks and sheltered spots to anchor or even small marinas with transient facilities.

Recommended Boating Apps:To enhance your experience, consider using savvy navvy, which offers fantastic navigation planning tools and real-time weather updates. Other viable options include Navionics for charting your path and Windy for monitoring conditions.

This pilotage plan offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, easy navigation, and safety considerations ideal for both novice and seasoned boaters. You can confidently traverse these waters while relishing the scenery and the adventures that abound, making it a trip worth taking every time.