Town of Brookhaven to Jersey City by boat

Pilotage Plan: Boat Trip from Brookhaven, NY to Jersey City, NJ

Route OverviewEmbarking from the Town of Brookhaven, New York, you’ll traverse a picturesque maritime landscape, leading to Jersey City, New Jersey. This journey will take you through diverse waterways, bustling with activity and natural beauty. Designed for recreational boaters with an intermediate skill level, the trip can unveil tranquil bays for unforeseen weather changes, scenic landmarks, and ample opportunities to enjoy local attractions.

Starting Point: Town of Brookhaven, NYBefore setting sail, familiarize yourself with local marine conditions, as tides and weather can change swiftly. Ensure your vessel is seaworthy, with all safety equipment on board. The Town of Brookhaven boasts charming surroundings, and it’s worth checking out local marinas for fuel and provisions.

Key Navigation Points and Hazards1. Moriches Bay: Leaving Brookhaven, head towards Moriches Bay. This bay provides good protection from inclement weather. If the skies darken, it’s a wise choice to seek shelter here. Keep watch for sandbars, particularly at low tide.

2. Shinnecock Inlet: As you leave Moriches Bay, head toward Shinnecock Inlet. Pay attention to the tide charts because currents can be strong. The inlet has navigational buoys to help guide your way, but know that you may encounter commercial fishing vessels—keep a lookout and maintain a safe distance.

3. Great South Bay: Once you navigate through Shinnecock Inlet, you’ll then enter Great South Bay. A popular spot for local boating, you might consider stopping at Fire Island for some leisure. This area offers picturesque beaches and charming cottages.

4. Bayshore Waterfront Park: Following Great South Bay, make your way toward Bayshore. This might be an excellent stop for both musings and meals. Explore the park and consider dining at one of the waterfront restaurants.

5. Hudson River: After leaving the shores of Long Island, you’ll traverse the wide Hudson River. Look out for the Tappan Zee Bridge marking a significant waypoint. Accurately follow the navigation charts, as ferry traffic and barge movements can be unpredictable.

Points of Interest

• Liberty State Park: Situated directly across from Lower Manhattan, this park offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan’s skyline. A great place for a lunch break or a leisurely stroll.

• The Hoboken Waterfront: Reach out towards Hoboken for its vibrant community and inviting eateries. The marina is usually welcoming to transient boaters, providing amenities.

• Jersey City Boardwalk: A fantastic end point, immerse yourself in the urban setting. The boardwalk offers dining, entertainment, and spectacular views of New York City.

Important Navigational Aids & RegulationsAs you plan your journey, several navigational aids warrant your attention:

• Lateral Marks: Ensure you understand the IALA buoyage system marking channels and obstructions.
• Charts & Apps: Utilizing marine charts is essential; you might find apps like Navionics, Boating Navigator, or the ever-reliable Savvy Navvy invaluable for updated marine insights.
• Vessel Traffic Services: You’ll encounter VTS (e.g., for New York Harbor), which provides assistance and information—don’t hesitate to reach out if needed.
• No-anchoring Zones: Familiarize yourself with areas where anchoring is prohibited, especially near bridges and commercial docks.

Final ConsiderationsWeather conditions play a pivotal role in ensuring your safety, so keep an eye on forecasts and be prepared to change course if needed. Make sure to share your float plans with local marinas or friends, ensuring someone knows your intended route.

This journey from Brookhaven to Jersey City promises not only to inspire adventure but also invites you to appreciate the majesty of the waterways of New York and New Jersey. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment on your voyage!