**Pilotage Plan from Shelter Island to Warwick, Rhode Island****Starting Point: Shelter Island, New York** **Coordinates: -72.2936666667, 41.0648333333** **Ending Point: Warwick, Rhode Island** **Coordinates: -71.43318932715357, 41.669283889457176****Overall Route Overview** This journey will take you from the picturesque Shelter Island, crossing the Great South Bay and along the scenic coastline of Rhode Island. The route is approximately 40 nautical miles, suitable for experienced boaters seeking a blend of adventure while prioritizing safety.**Section 1: Departure from Shelter Island** Before setting sail, ensure your boat is fully equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a reliable VHF radio. As you depart Shelter Island, make sure to navigate carefully around the Shinnecock Inlet leading to the Great South Bay. Pay attention to the local tide and currents, especially around your departure point where shoaling can occur.**Shelter Island Points of Interest:** - **Shelter Island Vineyards**: A charming stop for wine enthusiasts. - **Mashomack Preserve**: Ideal for nature lovers to explore the local wildlife.**Section 2: Entering the Great South Bay** As you navigate into the Great South Bay, keep an eye out for navigation aids such as buoys marking the safe channels. The local winds can be quite variable, particularly in the afternoon. Consider monitoring weather conditions closely via a boating app—Savvy Navvy is fantastic for real-time updates and route adjustments, ensuring that you remain on course safely.**Bays for Shelter:** - **North of Fire Island**: The bays here can provide decent shelter in changing weather.- **Moriches Bay**: If conditions worsen, this bay offers ample opportunities to anchor.**Section 3: Crossing to Rhode Island** Prepare for crossing the open waters towards Warwick. During this stretch, avoid the shipping lanes and look out for commercial traffic, particularly as you approach the busy Port of Providence. Familiarize yourself with the VHF radio channels for marine traffic to ensure communication is clear.**Navigational Aids:** Pay close attention to the following markers as you approach Warwick:- **Buoy 1 (Green Can)**: Marks the entrance channel to close in on Warwick.- **Beacons along the coastline**: Make for excellent references as you near land.**Section 4: Arrival at Warwick, Rhode Island** As you near the Warwick area, monitor your approach carefully. The local waterways can have varying depths and shallows near the coast, particularly around the Greenwich Bay area. Local regulations also require adherence to speed limits in specific zones to protect wildlife and water activities.**Warwick Points of Interest:** - **Goddard Memorial State Park**: Perfect for picnicking or a stroll.- **Warwick City Park**: A great spot for refreshments or just enjoying the scenery after your voyage.**Safety Considerations** Above all, keep safety first on your journey. Check for any local advisories or regulations that may be in effect, especially concerning fishing or protected areas along the coast. Always have a backup communication method and a contingency plan for unexpected weather changes.Navigating from Shelter Island to Warwick is an exciting journey through rich landscapes and lively waterways. While the focus is on safe stewardship of your vessel, the trip remains rewarding, with plenty of opportunities for enjoyable stops along the way. Prepare well, stay informed, and embrace the beauty of this coastal adventure!