Pilotage Plan: Kings Point, NY to Stony Brook, NY
Overview:
Embarking on a boat trip from the tranquil Village of Kings Point to the scenic haven of Stony Brook is an ideal journey for both seasoned sailors and leisure cruisers. This route captures the essence of Long Island’s coastal beauty while navigating through safe waters, beautiful parks, and charming communities. Emphasizing safety and education, this plan will guide you through the best practices for a delightful and secure journey.
Route Details:
- Departure from Kings Point:
- Begin your journey at Kings Point, situated along the western shore of Long Island. Before you embark, ensure you have checked weather conditions, tides, and any advisories. The waters here can be busy, so remain vigilant.
- Navigating the Little Neck Bay:
- Steer your vessel eastward through Little Neck Bay, which serves as a great shelter in case of sudden inclement weather. The bay is bordered by dense residential areas and offers limited commercial traffic. Keep an eye on the navigational aids in the bay, including buoys marking the shallow waters and channels.
- Passing through the Long Island Sound:
- Upon exiting Little Neck Bay, head northwest towards the Long Island Sound. The Sound can be pronounced at times, so maintain proper lookout for ferries and larger shipping vessels. Use channel markers diligently. The sound features picturesque views of the shoreline with various parklands (like the historic Fort Totten) visible along the northern shore.
- Pit Stop at Oyster Bay:
- A lovely detour can take you into Oyster Bay Harbor. This is an excellent place to explore the waterfront, grab lunch, or take a quick stroll. You might enjoy visiting the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, which offers an abundance of green space and historical significance. Important: Watch for the marked navigation channels to maintain safe depths.
- Great Neck Bay Considerations:
- Continue onwards to Great Neck Bay, where you should check for any local traffic regulations, including speed limits. Staying within designated channels is crucial. Various yachts and fishing boats frequent these waters, so extra caution is advisable.
- Entering Cold Spring Harbor:
- Keep heading east toward Cold Spring Harbor, a stunning and well-defined harbor. It’s generally well protected from adverse weather. This area is home to the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium, a wonderful spot for families and nature lovers.
- Advancing Towards Stony Brook:
- After enjoying Cold Spring, continue towards your final destination. As you begin the approach to Stony Brook, be aware of the numerous sailing vessels that populate the area and the tight entrance to Stony Brook harbor. Respect local sailing etiquette.
Points of Interest:
The Waterfront at Stony Brook: Beautiful pathways and water views await you in Stony Brook. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll after docking.
Stony Brook Village Center: Rich in history, it offers a plethora of dining options, quaint shops, and local attractions like the Long Island Museum.
Navigational Aids and Regulations:
- Keep a designated chart handy to help navigate markers and buoys. Noteworthy aids along the route include:
Buoys marking the L.I. Sound Channel: These are crucial for avoiding shallows.
Daybeacons indicating entry points: Always keep these in sight when navigating near shorelines.
Safety Tips:
- Prior to your trip, share your float plan with someone on land, detailing your route and estimated times.
- Equipped safety gear is vital; have life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and fire extinguishers onboard.
- Stay updated with weather forecasts. If conditions change unexpectedly, seek shelter at the nearest harbor.
Recommended App:
- Utilize Savvy Navvyfor live weather data and precise navigation. Other useful apps include Navionicsand Windyfor wind forecasts.
In this journey from Kings Point to Stony Brook, you’ll not only foster great memories but also ensure a safe and navigable adventure. Taking advantages of varied harbors and attractions along the route, this cruise embodies both exploration and safety, making it suitable for all types of boaters. Enjoy your trip!
