Town of East Hampton to Bayville by boat

Pilotage Plan: East Hampton, NY to New York City, NY

Trip Overview:
Embarking on a boating journey from the serene Town of East Hampton, located on the eastern tip of Long Island, to the bustling New York City is a remarkable experience. This route takes you through beautiful coastal waters, interspersed with opportunities for shelter and local attractions, ensuring both safety and enjoyment. This trip is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who appreciate a mix of coastal navigation and urban adventure.

1. Departure from East Hampton:
   Your journey begins at the harbor in East Hampton. Before setting sail, ensure your chartplotter is updated with the latest nautical charts and tidal information. Leaving East Hampton, you’ll navigate through the pristine waters of the Atlantic and soon enter Gardiner’s Bay.

Hazards:Keep an eye out for shoals, particularly around the East Hampton shoreline; the waters can be shallow in places.

2. Gardiner's Bay:
   As you head west, Gardiner's Bay provides an opportunity to anchor or drop by one of the numerous beaches like Napeague Beach, which makes for a great stop if you want a quiet place to relax or enjoy the beautiful view.

Shelter:In deteriorating weather, both Three Mile Harbor and Accabonac Harbor provide excellent shelter, with good holding ground for anchoring.

3. Shinnecock Inlet:
   While progressing towards Shinnecock Inlet, carefully track your position; the inlet can have shifting sandbars. Navigational aids—such as buoys marking the channel—provide key reference points, but always remain vigilant and follow the marked channel closely.

Point of Interest:After navigating through Shinnecock Inlet, take a moment to explore the Shinnecock Bay; it is renowned for its scenic views and excellent fishing opportunities.

4. Peconic Bay:
   After Shinnecock, turn north into Peconic Bay. This expansive body of water features numerous attractions. The charming town of Southampton is worth a visit, where you can disembark and explore the local shops, restaurants, and historical sites.

Shelter:In adverse weather, consider heading to Shelter Island, with its protected bays offering safe anchorage, and the added allure of beautiful hiking trails.

5. Sag Harbor:
   Continue along Peconic Bay until you reach the picturesque Sag Harbor. This historic whaling village is not only charming but also serves as a fantastic stop for dining and exploring local galleries. The marina here accommodates transient vessels and provides a secure spot to weather any storms.

Navigational Tips:Keep an eye out for traffic as you enter Sag Harbor. It’s a popular destination and may present challenges for holding your course.

6. Crossing Long Island Sound:
   From Sag Harbor, you will briefly enter the Long Island Sound before making your way toward the entrance of New York Harbor. Take care during this stretch; tidal currents can be strong, and it's crucial to stay vigilant in monitoring local weather conditions.
7. Approaching New York City:
   As you approach The Narrows, the iconic Statue of Liberty comes into view—a spectacular sight! Ensure you’re well aware of the busy vessel traffic in this area.

Navigational Aids:Pay attention to a series of buoys and markers directing you to your destination. The waters can be congested with ferries and commercial vessels, requiring constant awareness.

Shelter:If you find yourself caught in rough seas, consider heading into the calmer waters of the Hudson River or finding a marina in Jersey City for refuge.

8. Final Destination - New York City:
   Upon reaching the docks of New York City, take in the magnificent skyline and enjoy this urban marine paradise. Docking facilities are available across various marinas, but reservations may be necessary.

Regulations:Be aware of local boating laws, including speed limits and regulations in designated mooring areas. Always practice safe boating, particularly in crowded waters.

Conclusion:
ThisPilotage Plan outlines a voyage that not only emphasizes safety and shelter along the way but showcases the stunning scenery and vibrant culture of New York's waterways. For enhanced navigation, consider utilizing apps like Chartplotter, Navionics, and savvy navvy to assist with real-time weather updates and navigational charts. This trip will be memorable, balancing the thrill of adventure with the security that every boater seeks on the water. Safe travels!