Point Pleasant Canal

Scott T-Bird · Oct 16, 2020

Let's see if we can get @lehighsail Stu to jump in. He sails his boat from the Metedeconk and out the Manasquan. It doesn't sound like it is too tricky. The current gets pretty strong in the canal and you will need 2 bridge openings in the canal & 2 openings on Manasquan River, I believe. Call them on 13 and they will let you know the schedule, if there is one. There should be info about the bridges on Navionics.

Rich Stidger · Oct 16, 2020

The last time I was through those bridges was 25 years ago. At that time they opened on a schedule if there was boat traffic waiting. Definately determine the opening times, you don't want to wait around with current running. Channel 13 is the correct channel to hail the bridge. And when you are about 1/4 mile from the bridge, call them an tell them you are there. Make sure they acknowledge you. Current runs fast in the canal and maneuverability is quite limited.

Scott T-Bird · Oct 16, 2020

PJacobitti said:
TY, I see the bridges but cant seem to find any info on how to hail. I'd assume VHF 13 via radio but I'd like to confirm the hours of operation etc prior to leaving. No fun hanging on station if the currents are kicking in....

I was reading on Navionics that in the winter after dark (generally speaking - the descriptions are very wordy) you would need to arrange an opening in advance. I'd bet that in October, the bridges are always manned and working on a prescribed schedule.

lehighsail · Oct 17, 2020

I do go out the Manasquan Inlet frequently but usually during the day, during the summer. At those times the bridges are always manned. After Labor Day, you will have to check to see if you need to give them notice and I don't believe they are on schedules.

Depending on where you are picking up the boat in Brick, you may need a lift at the Mantoloking Bridge (channel 13) also. Then there are two bridges in the canal, Route 13 (Lovelandtown Bridge) and the Route 88 Bridge. They monitor Channel 13 and are very accommodating and raise the bridges well in advance as they are aware of the sometimes rapid current. I have gone thru the canal in both directions, with and against the currents and never had a problem with my 33ft. with a 29 HP engine so tides and currents are not critical IMO. Just to be safe if you are moving with the water, call the bridges well in advance and they will watch for you.

Upon leaving the canal turn toward starboard, follow the channel and next comes the Route 35 Bridge. They also monitor channel 13 and that bridge may always run on schedule (1/4 after the hour and 1/4 before the hour). You will have to check on that and may need to provide 4 hours notice in November.

Just past the Route 35 bridge is a railroad bridge that is open except when a train comes. A warning horn is sounded well in advance to warn of closing. Note that this bridge is hinged on its right hand side and does not go completely vertical. To pass, you must stay as far to the left as you can otherwise your mast may hit the bridge. That being said, I have never seen anyone hit.

In November, traffic on the water should be minimal. Keep in mind that Jersey power-boaters in their 21 ft. bowriders do feel it necessary to pass the bascule bridges dead center not paying attention to the currents or you. Again, call the Lovelandtown Bridge as you enter the canal. They will ask you to come closer and they will begin to open. They will let the next bridges know you are coming. I stress this because as Rich said, maneuverability is limited and treading water can be challenging if the water is moving fast.

The phone number for the Mantoloking Bridge is (732) 477-1430.

Point Pleasant Canal

PJacobitti

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Scott T-Bird

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PJacobitti

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Rich Stidger

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Scott T-Bird

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lehighsail

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