Where do I find the data on currents in the New York Harbor and Hudson River?

Question

I am taking a sailboat under power(6knots) from Atlantic city to Lake Eire Via the Eire Canal system.

Answer 1

I would suggest calling the Coast Guard for specific info. There are some nasty spots that can be challenging in the Harbor. I would also ask about the rest of the canal as well. Bon Voyage.

Answer 2

You want a current copy of Captain Eldridges Tides and Currents Remember that there are standing tides in that area. You can not go up the Hudson until the tide is in your favor. Many anchor behind the Statue of Liberty and wait for the tide. Atlantic City can be a bear to get out(or in) depending on the tide and wind, ypu probably knew that. The only other Port to enter on the Atlantic Manasquan. That is swift current too. Watch the train bridge, it closes suddenly with only a brief whistle. Raritan Bay is often very foggy., Verrazano bridge has currents to be aware of.
New York City area has alot of commercial traffic to watch, ferries and water taxis as well. The Hudson and the Canal are a breeze after that. You do need charts of the Hudson. There is a good cannal book available. Canal closes around Dec.1st.

Answer 3

Buy an Eldridge Tide and Pilot Book. $12.95 at you local book store. Inside you will find tide and current tables and diagrams for NY Harbor. As for the river, use Tidal Current Tables (current year) Atlantic Coast, North America, put out by NOAA, $13.95. Monitor VHF ch 13 as this is a commercial bridge to bridge comms channel, and the locks also monitor for openings. Make sure you have up to date charts and study them for hazzards and shoal water. You will also want to step the mast before you get to Troy. You can do this at Catskill creek, or Castleton on the Hudson, or try any of the other Marinas along the way. You are a sailboat, but not necessarily Deep Draft. Don't push your luck with ships and tugs. Stay well to your side of the channel. Avoid crossing another vessels bow, dont make erratic course changes when meeting, and keep your distance. If you haven't already, buy a copy of the Navigation Rules put out by the Coast Guard.

Answer 4

Via USGS.gov

Real-Time Data for New York: Streamflow

http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ny/nwis/current/?type=flow

Hope this helps!

Answer 5

chapmans pilot guide, also check for updates with USCG Station NEW YORK, be careful, those are shipping lanes, wear your PFD at all times, if fog rolls in pull over and wait, those huge ships will run you over like a cardboard box, and not even know it, I would'nt suggest night time cruising. You might want to talk to local pilots and the CG first.