Entering the NY Harbor from the Ocean-Sailing Adventure

Understanding Currents in NY Harbor

When entering the NY Harbor from the ocean, it’s crucial to understand the tidal currents. For up-to-date information, please look at the Eldridge Tide and Current book for the current year or use one of the recommended Tide and Current websites below. The reference point is The Narrows, NY Harbor, located under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, mid-channel (40°36.56’N 72°02.77’W).

Timing Your Entry Under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge

Ideally, it would be best to time your entry under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge to coincide with the start of the flood tide (south to north). Depending on the moon cycle, the flood typically lasts about 6 hours, with velocities ranging from 1.4 to 2.3 knots. The maximum flood occurs 2 hours and 25 minutes after the flood starts. If you miss the flood window, you’ll encounter the ebb tide (north to south), with velocities ranging from 1.7 to 2.5 knots. The maximum ebb occurs 3 hours and 15 minutes after the ebb starts.

Handling Ebb Tide

If you encounter the ebb tide, steer your boat as far west as possible (remember, the maximum current will be in the middle), where the current is relatively weaker. The east side has stronger currents due to the influence of the Hudson River and East River currents.

Navigating Around Liberty and Ellis Islands

As you sail by Liberty Island and Ellis Island, be aware of the white floating marks around both islands, which designate the security zones. Avoid sailing between these marks and the islands to prevent a prompt visit from a police boat. Refrain from attempting to sail west of Liberty Island (behind the statue) or Ellis Island, as these areas are restricted and contain unexpected shallows.

Specific Hazards to Note

The area south of Liberty Island is rocky, and depths can get highly shallow during low tide (between 30cm and 2.5 m/1-7.5 feet). If you wish to navigate west of the Statue of Liberty for a spectacular harbour view, enter a well-marked channel with red and green buoys. Remember the “Red Right Return” rule: keep red buoys on your starboard and green buoys on your port when heading west.

Anchoring Near Liberty State Park

The first buoy to look for is a red nun buoy, marked as “National Dock Channel Buoy 2” in Navionics (40°41.155’N, 74°2.657’W). The channel runs south of Liberty Island and narrows as it approaches Liberty State Park. Follow the buoys to reach a well-protected cove where you can anchor overnight.

Anchoring Tips

Check your depth before anchoring—generally, the northern part of the cove is deeper (3-4.5m/9-14 feet) than the southern part, where rocks awash at 1.25m/4.9 feet can pose a hazard.