best route for first solo to nyc from nj

[rodherb]

Hi, i have to sail my boat from fair haven,nj to new york harbor, the hudson. i am a novice who has never sailed alone, i have with others, unfortunately everyone i have sailed with is living elsewhere. i am hoping someone out there is familiar with these waters and can advise on what the best course would be. i intend on sailing as close to the coast as possible i believe this feat might take all day but i'm not sure, if anyone has any advice on this please contact me, rodherb@gmail.com thanks

 

[CHET P]

sail on

Many years ago when i lived in redbank and kept my boat at MYC i would yearly take a 2 week single handed cruise that way and continue on to LI sound and out to Block Islandif there was enough time. My trip usually started with a stop at liberty island or somewhere on the south shore of Staten Island. Day 2 ususally was planned on a slack tide at hells gate and then on thru to the sound. from there on it was where the wind blew me as for the schedule....I never travled on bad days and tried not to motor unless absolutly necessary...No rush just a great cruise...Oh my boat then was a 23' pearson electra (like an ensign but with a small cabin, and i do mean SMALL) and power was a british seagull...good luck and go for it... chet p

 

[tony litvak]

Current

I believe you can sneak in to the sandy hook bay instead of going around it - once in, working your way up is not that difficult. However, as you get closer to the verazanno bridge, you need to consider the traffic which is quite heavy at times and the current which you must absolutly catch at the right time. I did a trip the other way 2 years ago and had to motor for a couple of hours. Depending on how high up the hudson you want to go, you can reach the point within 8 hours - may be more. It's not as close as it seems, considering the tacking that you may have to do. Send me an e-mail @ tonylitvak@hotmail.com and we can talk more in case you need some more help. I'm docked in brooklyn and live in NJ.

 

[The Depot]

Island Marinas

Are there marinas on Liberty and Staten Islands?

 

[Rob2435]

NY Harbor

I keep my boat in Liberty Harbor, so NY Harbor is where all my trips start and end. It takes anywhere from 3 to 5 hours from Sandy Hook to reach the Battery - if the tide and winds are right. And as someone mentioned earlier - it get pretty busy in the harbor during the week with all the ferries, barges, cruise ships and other sailors.If you can't make NY Harbor..Horseshoe Cove is a great place to anchor, you could also hit the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club - $40 gets you mooring ball, hot shower and Launch service.