Village of Kings Point to Elizabeth by boat

Pilotage Plan: Kings Point, NY to Elizabeth, NJ

Overview
ThisPilotage Plan outlines a safe and enjoyable route for boaters traveling from the picturesque Village of Kings Point, located in New York, to Elizabeth, New Jersey. This journey covers a distance of approximately 29 nautical miles, primarily through the beautiful and bustling waters of the New York Harbor and Upper New Jersey coast. The trip is suitable for intermediate to advanced boaters, particularly those comfortable navigating in busy shipping channels and urban marine environments.

Departure from Kings Point, NY
Begin your journey at Kings Point, situated on the North Shore of Long Island. Before setting out, ensure that you have your navigation gear in order and check local weather conditions. As you leave, keep an eye out for the nearby historic landmarks like the US Merchant Marine Academy, which provides a fascinating backdrop against your departure.

Route Description

1. Leaving Kings Point
   As you exit Great Neck Bay and approach the main body of Long Island Sound, be mindful of shallow areas and submerged rocks along the shoreline. Make use of your navigation charts and modern boating applications, such as savvy navvy, to keep your course accurate.
2. Navigating through Long Island Sound to Throgs Neck
   You will transit through the Long Island Sound, under the Throgs Neck Bridge — one of several impressive structures to admire. This is a busy route, with commercial traffic, so maintain a vigilant lookout for ships and larger vessels. Be aware of any navigation buoys marking hazards, particularly around the shipping lanes.
3. Entering East River
   After passing under the East River bridges, you will navigate into the East River. Waters can be choppy here, especially with tidal currents, so adjust your speed accordingly. Make sure to adhere to the rules of the road and be ready for narrow passages. Look out for iconic views of the Manhattan skyline as you glide past!
4. Transition to New York Harbor
   Continue south until you pass Battery Park, where you can get a stunning view of the Statue of Liberty. This area can be very busy with ferries and tourist boats, so exercise caution and adhere to local navigation regulations.
5. Approaching Newark Bay
   Once you clear New York Harbor, set your sights on Newark Bay. This area offers a few sheltered spots in case the weather turns, especially around the Port Newark area. Keep an eye on the tide tables, as they can greatly influence your navigation in this part of the trip.
6. Final Approach to Elizabeth, NJ
   As you navigate toward Elizabeth, be cognizant of the ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Newark. The waters here can be quite active, so maintain awareness at all times. Your destination is just off the shores of the Elizabeth area.

Notable Points of Interest
Battery Park: Ideal for a quick stop for sightseeing. You can enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island while taking a breather.
Liberty State Park: Just across the Hudson, and easily accessible if you want to drop anchor for a lunch break or explore its green spaces.

Shelter Opportunities
Newark Bay: If the weather deteriorates unexpectedly, Newark Bay provides a sheltered area where you can anchor securely. Monitor the weather forecasts regularly, and have a plan to secure your vessel if driving winds or storms approach.

Navigational Aids
While traversing this route, several navigational aids will assist you:
Buoys and Markers: Pay close attention to the channel markers along the East River and Newark Bay. They indicate safe navigation routes and potential hazards.
VHF Radio: Keep a radio on hand to communicate with nearby vessels and the Coast Guard, particularly during busy sections of the trip.

Regulations and Safety Considerations

• Stay updated on local navigation rules, including speed limits, no-wake zones, and marine traffic control near commercial ports.
• Ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and proper communication devices.
• Always file a float plan with someone on shore, letting them know your estimated arrival time and route.

This journey from Kings Point to Elizabeth promises not just a captivating cruise, but an experience filled with notable sights and the joys of maritime navigation. Embrace the adventure, keep safety as your top priority, and enjoy what this vibrant marine corridor has to offer!