### Pilotage Plan: Warwick, RI to Pawcatuck, CT#### OverviewThis route from Warwick, Rhode Island, to Pawcatuck, Connecticut, promises a unique blend of picturesque seascapes, charming coastal towns, and numerous opportunities for exploration. Designed primarily for mid-sized cruising vessels, the journey emphasizes safety while still allowing for delightful stops and experiences along the way.#### Route Description**Starting Point: Warwick, RI**Begin your voyage at the picturesque city of Warwick, known for its beautiful waterfront and established marinas. Make sure you're familiar with the local navigational aids, including buoys and markers in the area around Greenwich Bay.**1. Navigating Greenwich Bay**As you depart from Warwick, you'll enter Greenwich Bay. Be aware of local boat traffic, particularly during summer weekends. Keep an eye out for Green and Red buoys marking the channel in this area. If conditions turn unfavorable, this bay offers ample opportunities for shelter, particularly in the calm waters of Cowesett and the nearby marinas.**Points of Interest:**- **Goddard Memorial State Park**: A beautiful park offering trails and picnic areas that can be accessed via dinghy.- **Warwick Lighthouse**: A great spot to snap some photos and appreciate the views.**2. Transitioning to Narragansett Bay**Exit the bay through the Throgs Neck. This is where you’ll see the transition into the larger Narragansett Bay, which can present some challenging conditions due to wind and tide. Pay careful attention to currents, especially around the prominent shipping channels.**Navigational Aids:**- **Red/Green Markers**: Remain vigilant about channel markers that direct vessels safely through the busy passages.**3. Jamestown and Dutch Island**As you approach the waters near Jamestown, consider a short detour around Dutch Island. The island is home to historic structures and offers a quiet anchorage, perfect for a lunch stop or a break from cruising. This area is known for its calm waters, providing protection from prevailing winds.**4. Conanicut Island**Proceeding north, take note of picturesque Conanicut Island. It’s a lovely area to explore and offers a good amount of anchorage space if you decide to drop the hook for a few hours.**5. Next Stop: Point Judith**After Conanicut, make your way towards Point Judith. Experienced boaters recognize this area as having constantly changing weather, so it’s crucial to monitor marine forecasts. The channel leading into Point Judith is well-marked, but the waters can be treacherous due to shoaling and rocky areas — navigate cautiously. **Sheltering Opportunities:**- **Point Judith Pond**: A beautiful pond situated between Python Point and Fisherman’s Landing; it offers calm anchorage and is scenic for a picnic. **6. Entering Block Island Sound**From Point Judith, you’ll enter Block Island Sound. This stretch can be lively with open water and waves, often housing strong tides. Stay close to marked shipping lanes. Monitor your charts and use a reliable navigation app such as **Savvy Navvy** or others to confirm your position.#### Key Safety Considerations:- Keep an eye on wind and tide charts frequently as they significantly affect both safety and comfort. Heading out or returning while it's calm is highly recommended.- Be aware that the waters around the Rhode Island coastline can present hazards such as submerged rocks, especially at low tide. Always maintain a safe distance from unmarked areas.**7. Onwards to Pawcatuck, CT**As you draw closer to Pawcatuck, tune into local VHF channels to monitor any navigation announcements. The tranquil environment eases up as you approach the Pawcatuck River, allowing for a gentle entry into your destination. **Local Regulations:**Abide by all local rules regarding speed limits and no-wake zones, especially as you approach marinas and docking areas. ### ConclusionThis route from Warwick to Pawcatuck is an engaging way for boaters — both novice and experienced — to explore the striking New England coastline. With careful navigation through bustling waterways, opportunities for delightful detours, and secure places to shelter, this journey ensures a memorable boating experience. Always prioritize safety, respect local regulations, and keep your navigational instruments up to date — and you’ll have a fantastic time on the water!