Navigating from Sandy Hook to Forked river

[Knotical]

Hi.

I am most likely going to store the boat in Forked river this winter. The boat is currently in Manhasset Bay, thinking about taking 1 day to go down to Sandy Hook via East river and NY harbor and sail down the Forked river the next day. Distance from Sandy Hook to Forked river is ~45 nm so less than a day sail.

This will be my first coastal passage and I want to sail if possible, so will wait for appropriate wind direction (thinking NE/NW), prevailing winds are mostly southerly. I am sure a lot of folks here have made this trip, can you please advise if my plan is ok or not? Also, Barnegat inlet has shallow water without significant tidal range, we draw 6', what is the best way/time to enter? If I use Manasquan inlet up north I will have to deal with two low bridges and some shallow water, would prefer Barnegat if possible.

I am open to all suggestions, people who have made this trip please chime in.

Thanks.

P.S. thinking about mid-Oct to make this trip

[Knotical]

Bumpety bump

[flyingfin]

One vote for Manasquan, since you might not like the sandbars at Barnegat!

[Boatguy30]

I think it's pretty shallow after the canal bit. The bridges open by they are a bit slow on a flood tide. I've done the inside all the way to Atlantic City

I really think Barnegat is better. NJ sea tow captain is a forum member here. Maybe he'll jump on. Or just call sea tow or Tow Boat US

[flyingfin]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7otRiEPRfDM

If you do come in at Manasquan, watch the tides when navigating the canal. Try to run it at slack tide, the currents can be wicked bad. Have seen sailboats w/ small engines struggle to make headway! And check bridge clearances if you have sailboat