**Pilotage Plan: Town of Fishkill, NY to Hudson, NY****Overview:** This journey along the majestic Hudson River offers an exciting blend of natural scenery, historical sites, and safe harbors. The trip from Fishkill to Hudson is perfect for recreational boaters looking to explore a vibrant and picturesque area while maintaining safe and navigable waters.---**Section 1: Route and Navigation Details****Starting Point:** Town of Fishkill, NY - **Coordinates:** 41.4567° N, 73.9858° W**Ending Point:** Hudson, NY - **Coordinates:** 42.2555° N, 73.7990° WThe distance between Fishkill and Hudson is approximately 20 nautical miles. This route is predominantly along the Hudson River and is ideal for small to medium-sized vessels. Navigating this area requires attention to the river's current, particularly in the spring when thawing can increase flow rates. **Key Navigation Aids:** - **Navigation Marks:** Pay attention to the various buoys and markers along the river; these are crucial for steering clear of shallows and identifying navigable passages.- **Lighthouses:** Notably, the **Esopus Meadows Lighthouse** provides a key landmark while navigating south.- **Charts and Maps:** Utilize NOAA charts for the Hudson River—these detailed maps are essential for safe passage. **Hazards to Note:**- The Hudson River has varying depths, which can lead to shifting sandbars, especially during low water conditions. Always keep to the marked channels.- Be mindful of recreational boaters, especially during weekends and holidays when the river traffic can increase substantially.---**Section 2: Points of Interest Along the Route**As you navigate towards Hudson, the Hudson River reveals charming towns and stunning vistas worth stopping for.1. **Beacon, NY:** A lively riverfront town that offers dining and art galleries. Consider stopping at the **Dia:Beacon Museum**, which showcases contemporary art in a former Nabisco box factory—definitely worth a look.2. **Cold Spring, NY:** Halfway to Hudson, Cold Spring features beautiful views of the river and mountains. This quaint village is ideal for a lunch stop. Don’t miss the local shops and the historic **Cold Spring Depot**.3. **Breakneck Ridge:** A popular hiking area with breathtaking views over the river. If your crew is up for it, consider taking a brief hike from the dock; it's a great way to stretch your legs.---**Section 3: Shelter Locations**Weather on the Hudson River can change rapidly, so knowledge of safe harbors is critical for unexpected situations:- **Newburgh Bay:** Approximately 10 nautical miles from Fishkill, Newburgh offers a good anchorage if conditions become unfavorable. Facilities at the Newburgh Yacht Club provide shelter and assistance. - **Cold Spring Harbor:** This small cove can provide temporary shelter if winds kick up or storms approach.- **Hudson Harbor:** As you enter Hudson, there are several marinas with docking facilities should you need to secure your vessel.---**Section 4: Local Regulations and Restrictions**Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations including:- **Speed Limits:** There may be speed restrictions particularly in populated areas like Beacon and Cold Spring to protect both swimmers and wildlife.- **No Wake Zones:** These areas are present near marinas, docks, and certain waterfront communities—maintaining vigilance can help avoid fines and accidents.**Safety Gear:** Always ensure you have the necessary safety equipment on board, including life jackets for all passengers, a fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, and a first aid kit.---**Section 5: Recommended Boating Apps**To enhance your cruising experience:- **Savvy Navvy:** This app provides real-time chart plotting and weather updates, making navigation effortless.- **Windy:** Great for checking wind conditions and forecasts.- **Aphrodite:** Useful for finding key waypoints and local amenities.---This cruise from the Town of Fishkill to Hudson, NY, not only promises scenic beauty and vibrant towns but also embodies a thoughtful approach to safety and planning. With proper navigation, knowledge of the waters, and respect for their changing conditions, this journey will be an unforgettable adventure for any boater. Enjoy your trip!