Pilotage Plan: West Mystic, CT to Cutchogue, NY
Overview
This route from West Mystic, Connecticut, to Cutchogue, New York, spans approximately 40 nautical miles, offering a delightful blend of scenic waters, historical landmarks, and charming coastal towns. The trip is perfectly suited for recreational boaters, day cruisers, and those looking for a relaxing getaway on the water.
Route Description
Starting Point: West Mystic, CT
Setting off from the charming Mystic River, keep an eye out for the iconic Mystic Seaport, a living museum showcasing America’s maritime heritage. As you venture out, navigate towards Long Island Sound, which features well-marked channels, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Navigational Aids:
Green Channel Markersand Red Channel Markers: Ensure to follow the preferred channel markers along the Rhumb Line to maintain safe passage through the Sound.
Lighthouse: Keep watch for the Little Gull Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark marking the entrance to the Plum Gut where currents can be swift.
Notable Landmarks En Route:
Local Points of Interest
Shelter Island: A slight deviation from the direct route, but well worth it for its beautiful scenery and several marinas for docking. Known for its rustic charm, you can explore pristine nature trails or quaint shops.
North Fork Wineries: As you approach Cutchogue, consider a visit to the local wineries, which have some of the finest offerings in the country. Many provide docking facilities for short visits.
Cutchogue Harbor: Upon arrival, this harbor is a delightful place to explore, surrounded by lush greenery and local establishments.
Hazards and Considerations
Plum Gut: Be mindful of tidal currents. The waters here are notorious and can become turbulent during strong tidal flows. Plan your crossing at slack tide if possible.
Fisher's Island Sound: Always pay attention to boat traffic, especially around popular anchorage spots, as this region is often busy with both commercial and recreational vessels.
Regulatory Considerations
Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations. Safety equipment must be on board, including life jackets for all passengers, as well as a properly functioning VHF radio for communication. Monitor Channel 16 for emergency communications, and remember to respect no-wake zones, especially near populated areas or marinas.
Recommended Apps
To ensure a smooth trip, utilize nautical apps such as:
Savvy Navvy: Comprehensive marine navigation app providing route planning, weather forecasting, and tidal information.
Navionics: Great for chart plotting and quick access to navigational aids.
Windy: Perfect for checking wind and sea conditions in real-time.
With careful planning and attention to safety, this route from West Mystic to Cutchogue will be an enjoyable experience, combining nature's beauty with engaging activities along Long Island Sound. Safe travels, and may your journey be filled with adventure and calm waters!