Pilotage Plan from Cold Spring, NY to Middletown Township, NJ
Overview:
This journey from the picturesque Village of Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley to the coastal beauty of Middletown Township, New Jersey, is a wonderful opportunity for boaters who seek a blend of natural scenery, historic landmarks, and safe anchorage points. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters due to varying conditions along the way, including navigating through estuarine environments.
Starting Point: Cold Spring, NY
Begin your journey in Cold Spring, a quaint village known for its stunning views along the Hudson River. Before departing, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful waterfront park and the nearby Cold Spring Depot for a visit to the local merchants.
Route Highlights:
- Leaving Cold Spring:
- As you set sail from Cold Spring, maintain a safe distance from the west bank, ensuring you are well within the navigable channel. Keep an eye on your depth sounder, as the Hudson can have shallow spots that may not be well marked.
- Navigating Down the Hudson River:
- You’ll follow the river south, alongside the rugged cliffs and valleys. Pay attention to the Two Brothers Lighthouseon your starboard, a historic navigation aid that stands sentinel at the banks.
- Landmark: West Point
- Majestically standing across the river is West Point, home to the United States Military Academy. This is an excellent photo opportunity, so consider making a slow pass to take it in.
- Shelter at Haverstraw Bay:
- As you approach Haverstraw Bay, it’s a suitable spot to pull in should the weather take a turn for the worse. This large, relatively sheltered area offers various securing options along marinas or even a quiet anchorage.
- Interesting Stop: Croton-on-Hudson:
- If time allows, divert slightly to the west and visit Croton Point Park. The park offers beautiful trails, picnic areas, and a great view of the Hudson.
- Navigating past Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow:
- Continue south toward Tarrytown. On your way, watch for the Tarrytown Lighthouse, another notable landmark. An additional stop could be the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse—a charming site with significant historical intrigue.
- Entering the Tappan Zee Bridge Area:
- As you approach the Tappan Zee Bridge, be vigilant. This area can be busy with commercial traffic. Maintain a proper lookout for barges and ferry vessels. The bridge itself is also a remarkable structure to admire.
- Then on to the Hackensack River:
- After clearing the bridge, you'll follow your way down toward the Hudson Point, where you'll transition into the Hackensack Riversurroundings. Make sure to adhere strictly to any local traffic patterns and be aware of small craft navigating nearby.
- Approaching the Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook:
- Once you reach the Raritan Bay, you will begin to feel the coastal breezes. This area is not only beautiful but also rich in marine activity. Be mindful of the tidal currents as you navigate.
- Middletown Township, NJ:
- Your journey concludes as you head to the tranquil shores of Middletown Township. You’ll be met by views of Sandy Hook and the nearby historic forts. As you approach your destination, choose an appropriate marina based on your needs for fuel and services.
Key Navigation Aids:
- Pay close attention to marked buoys along the route and ensure your onboard navigation system is up-to-date. I recommend using apps like savvy navvy, which provides powerful charting and planning tools specifically designed for boating.
Local Regulations:
Be aware of local boating regulations, especially in areas around the bridges and busy harbors. Many zones may have specific speed limits and no-wake areas. Always ensure that you are equipped with safety gear and adhere to the required life jacket laws.
Closing Thoughts:
This route offers a diverse experience, blending natural beauty, historical insight, and opportunities to explore local culture. While prioritizing safety, it still offers a wealth of scenic enjoyment and landmarks that make the trip so worthwhile. Happy sailing!
