### Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip: Huntington, NY to New York City, NY**Starting Point:** Town of Huntington, New York **Ending Point:** City of New York, New York **Distance:** Approximately 25-30 nautical miles depending on the chosen route **Boat Type:** This route is particularly suitable for larger day cruisers and cabin cruisers capable of handling open waters while providing sheltered areas for overnight stays.#### Route OverviewEmbarking from the charming Town of Huntington, you'll start on a scenic journey that leads through rich waterways and showcases a taste of New York’s coastal charm. The route offers an exciting combination of tranquility and pulsating urban life, perfect for boaters seeking a balance of adventure and safety.#### Key Points Along the Way1. **Huntington Harbor:** - **Exit Route:** Depart from Huntington Harbor, navigating through its marked channels. Be cautious of shoals and keep an eye on navigational buoys as you head south. - **Point of Interest:** The beautiful beaches and parks along the shoreline provide scenic views and a perfect stop for a swim or picnic if time allows.2. **Northport Bay:** - **Shelter from Weather:** If you encounter sudden weather changes, Northport Bay provides a safe haven with well-defined anchorages. - **Activities:** This area is known for waterfront dining and quaint village shops, making it a great spot to enjoy local cuisine and take in the small-town atmosphere.3. **Mill Neck Bay:** - **Navigational Considerations:** As you approach Mill Neck Bay, note its shallow areas; adhere to the designated navigational channels. - **Interest:** Consider a brief diversion to enjoy a peaceful anchorage with opportunities for fishing or simply relaxing in natural surroundings.4. **Long Island Sound:** - Now venturing into Long Island Sound, pay careful attention to changing currents and tides. It's advisable to consult local tide charts to maintain a safe speed and manage your route effectively. - **Navigational Aids:** Keep your chart plotter active, paying close attention to visible navigational aids and keep to the marked channels. Be aware of larger vessels operating in this busy waterway.5. **Execution of Channel Navigation:** - Work your way towards the East River, a busy shipping channel. Make use of VHF radio, particularly channel 16, to communicate with other vessels and stay informed about local traffic conditions. - **Important regulatory note:** Always obey speed limits and maintain a safe distance from commercial vessels, particularly in narrow areas.6. **Approaching New York City:** - When nearing the entrance to the East River, expect to navigate near notable landmarks such as the Roosevelt Island and the iconic Manhattan skyline. Follow the channel marked by buoys to safely approach the city’s bustling marina. - **Local Insight:** The area near the Brooklyn Bridge offers awe-inspiring views and can be a great point to take some photos. The currents can be strong here, so approach with caution.7. **Final Destination - New York City:** - **Marinas and Anchorages:** There are several marinas where you can dock upon arrival, including the New York Harbor or Pier 25 in Tribeca. Ensure you have a dock reservation if you plan to stay overnight. - **Safety Tip:** If planning to explore below the surface, remember that the waters can become crowded; always look out for ferries, private vessels, and fishing boats.#### Shelter OptionsShould the weather turn foul, here are some quick places to take shelter:- **Northport Bay:** Provides calm waters and safe harbor.- **Huntington Harbor:** Always a reliable spot to retreat to if necessary.#### Navigational AppsFor keeping navigation safe and efficient, I recommend:- **Savvy Navvy:** This app is user-friendly and ideal for chart plotting, tide information, and finding marinas.- **Navionics:** High-quality charts and depth data.- **Windy:** For real-time weather updates, which is essential especially on longer trips.#### ConclusionThis route from Huntington to New York City promises a beautiful mix of sheltered bays, picturesque landmarks, and memorable city views with the critical focus on safety and navigation. With proper care and attention to local regulations and weather conditions, boaters are bound to enjoy a rewarding experience on the water.