Town of Fishkill to New York by boat

Pilotage Plan: From Fishkill, NY to New York, NY

Trip Overview

This journey takes you from the quaint Town of Fishkill, known for its serene landscapes and rich history, to the vibrant, bustling city of New York. The distance is approximately 60 nautical miles, traversing various waterways, including the Hudson River and the New York Harbor. This route is well-suited for experienced boaters who enjoy a mix of leisurely cruising, scenic views, and the thrill of navigating through a complex urban waterway.

Section 1: Departure from Fishkill

Starting at the Town of Fishkill, your voyage begins in a picturesque setting. Before you embark, ensure you're equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit. For this leg, the Hudson River is your primary navigation route.

• Navigational Aid: Look for the buoy markers that define the navigation channel. The river is relatively wide, but keeping to the marked channel is essential to avoid shoals and sneaker waves.
• Hazards: Be mindful of recreational boaters, especially on weekends. Also, watch for floating debris, particularly after heavy rainfall.

Section 2: Hudson River Route

As you head down the Hudson River, enjoy the stunning views of the Highlands, a region dotted with historic houses and charming towns. A notable stop here is the West Point, home to the United States Military Academy.

• Shelter Points: If the weather takes a turn for the worse, the Haverstraw Bay is an ideal shelter. It offers safe anchorage and is reasonably well-protected from prevailing winds.
• Points of Interest: Consider a detour to the Bear Mountain State Park for a hike or some sightseeing. The views from the top of Bear Mountain are spectacular!

Section 3: Approaching New York Harbor

As you near the end of your route, the approach to New York Harbor begins to present its own challenges. This section is crowded with large ships and ferries, so vigilance is key.

• Navigational Aids: Familiarize yourself with the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the various traffic separation schemes in the harbor. The U.S. Coast Guard usually provides updates on maritime traffic; tune in to VHF channel 13 for real-time information.

Section 4: Arrival in New York City

Upon entering New York Harbor, you’ll experience one of the most iconic views in the world. You’ll want to keep an eye out for notable landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

• Shelter Points: If conditions worsen, the North Brother Island and South Brother Island offer temporary anchorage but always ensure to stay clear of the no-anchoring zones.
• Regulations: New York City can be heavily regulated; be aware of any local navigation rules and keep an eye out for no-wake zones, especially around docks and marinas.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount on this journey. Ensure that your vessel is in top condition before departing, conduct regular safety drills with your crew, and keep abreast of weather forecasts. Since this route takes you through a mix of rural and urban settings, stay alert for changes in conditions that could affect boating safety.

Recommended Boating Apps

To enhance your experience on the water, utilize navigation apps like:

• Savvy Navvy: Great for route planning, tidal information, and navigation charts.
• Navionics: Offers detailed marine charts for real-time navigation.
• Windy: Perfect for monitoring weather conditions as you progress.

This cruise from Fishkill to New York City provides a delightful mix of historical exploration and urban experiences, wrapped in stunning landscapes. With the proper cautions and preparations, it promises to be a safe and enjoyable journey for any boater.