Town of Brookhaven to Staten Island by boat

Pilotage Plan: Town of Brookhaven, NY to Staten Island, NY

Route Overview:Embarking on a boat trip from the picturesque Town of Brookhaven to Staten Island is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for exploration and adventure. This route is particularly suitable for coastal cruisers and intermediate to experienced boaters. You will navigate through beautiful waters, discover quaint bays, and enhance your seamanship skills while staying safe and informed.

Leg 1: Departure from BrookhavenStarting your journey, you’ll depart from the Town of Brookhaven, renowned for its scenic beauty and rich maritime history. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is in good condition. Familiarize yourself with local regulations governing the area.

Boats should navigate the Peconic River, following it to its junction with the Great South Bay, ensuring to keep a safe distance from shallow areas and hazards such as shoals and wrecks. Keep an eye out for the navigation buoys marking the channels to maintain a safe course.

Notable Points of Interest:

• Cupsogue Beach County Park: A great stopping point for boaters seeking a break, this area offers sandy beaches, picnic spots, and scenic views of the Atlantic.

Leg 2: Navigating Great South BayOnce in the Great South Bay, you’ll have to be mindful of prevailing weather conditions, as this body of water can become choppy with strong winds. Maintain a steady course toward the western part of the bay, where you can find several potential anchorages and beaches.

Shelter Options:

• Fire Island National Seashore (west entrance): A stunning area with sandy shores and protected waters. In case of inclement weather, these waters provide a great space for waiting out storms.

Leg 3: Passage through The NarrowsAs you approach the lower Raritan Bay, be aware of the busy maritime traffic and take special care around the Ambrose Channel. The Narrows, which separates Staten Island and Brooklyn, can present navigational challenges with strong currents, particularly during tidal changes. Use your charts and plotters effectively, keeping an eye on changing weather patterns.

Navigational Aids:

• Lighted Buoys: Pay attention to the lighted buoys marking the shipping channels. Familiarize yourself with their colors and characteristics.
• Local Marinas: Utilize marinas along the route to gauge local weather forecasts and seek shelter if conditions worsen.

Hazards:

• Strong tidal currents in the East River and Lower New York Harbor can present a danger, particularly in adverse weather. Plan your passage to coincide with slack tide or favorable currents whenever possible.
• Keep a lookout for local fishing vessels; there are recreational fishing zones along your route.

Leg 4: Arrival at Staten IslandAs you cross into Staten Island waters, you will be greeted by views of the Statue of Liberty and the far-off skyline of Manhattan. The numerous parks and recreational areas on Staten Island can be appealing for those looking for a pleasant day trip.

Local Attractions:

• Staten Island Ferry Terminal: A must-see, this terminal offers free ferry rides back to Manhattan, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline.
• Historic Richmond Town: Dive into the local history by visiting this restored village and museum complex, showcasing buildings from the 17th century onward.

Navigation Apps

Before setting out, consider downloading navigation apps that could assist you throughout your trip. Apps like Savvy Navvy will help you with route planning, hazard mapping, and tidal calculations, enhancing your navigation experience while prioritizing safety.

This route from Brookhaven to Staten Island is an adventure that offers dramatic views, unique stopping points, and valuable seamanship experience, all underlined by safety considerations and local regulations. While the journey promises fun and exploration, the real essence of this trip lies in the opportunity to enjoy the water responsibly, ensuring that you and your crew are safe every step of the way.