This trip will take you from the scenic Town of Islip, New York, across the open waters of the Great South Bay and Manhattan's busy waterways. The route is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who appreciate navigating through potentially busy maritime traffic while keeping an eye out for natural beauty and important landmarks along the way.
Starting Point: Town of Islip, NY (Lat: 40.6446445, Long: -73.1710675)
1. Departure from Islip As you set off from the Town of Islip, make sure to navigate safely past the local marinas. Keep watch for moored vessels and local traffic in the area. The Great South Bay will be your initial waterway.
2. Entering Great South Bay Once you are clear from the Islip area, steer southeast into the Great South Bay. This large, shallow bay is great for enjoying views of open waters but be cautious of shallows, especially around the bay’s edges.
3. Navigating to Fire Island Inlet Head west towards Fire Island Inlet. This channel is well-marked and monitored, but watch out for shoal waters. Fire Island itself offers a scenic backdrop. Should the weather turn, look into the local inlets as potential shelter spots. Fire Island is also home to an array of beaches and nature trails if you're inclined to make a stop.
4. Through Ocean Beach to Patchogue If time permits, consider a detour into the village of Patchogue, a lovely area bustling with restaurants and shops. You can find anchorage spots along the waterfront here as you indulge in fun-filled activities.
5. Rejoining the Main Channel After enjoying Patchogue, head back toward the main channel leading to the Moriches Inlet. This area can get busy, so ensure to keep a lookout for fishing vessels and other boaters. The speed limits around inlets should be closely followed here, generally around 5 knots.
6. Into the Atlantic and Coastal Waters As you embark on the Atlantic waters, follow the buoys marking your path northward to the New York Harbor. This section will be deeper, but ensure you’re following the marked channels since this area can have commercial shipping traffic, especially around the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
7. Approaching New York City Approaching Lower Manhattan, you will need to navigate through some of the largest marine traffic in the region. Stay alert for ferries and water taxis as they have right of way. The Statue of Liberty will be an iconic point of interest to your starboard side—don’t miss the photo opportunity!
Embarking on this journey from Islip to New York not only showcases some breathtaking views but also allows you to experience bustling Marine traffic, serene natural landscapes, and vibrant local culture. Ensure you adhere to safety protocols while enjoying this memorable trip. Happy boating!