Anchorage/storm shelter along Long Island's Atlantic coast

[Trina]

Hello there,


my husband and his friend are planning to sail from Jamaica Bay to Montauk on a 30 foot sailboat with a 4.5 foot draft this weekend. Can anyone give advice on the best spots for them to



a) anchor overnight along the way at Long Island's Atlantic Coast and

b) which places to consider if they need to find shelter or decide to sit out bad weather conditions?



They know about the basics, but since conditions like the approach of inlets like Fire Island or into Shinnecock Bay are changing all the time, it would be wonderful to read about the most recent experiences on this route.


I'm asking on their behalf because they have problems with their internet connection, and they had to change their route at the last minute. I hope that that's the only bad luck combo they will encounter.


Thanks for your help!
Trina

[CarlF]

This is just an unfriendly bit of coast for cruising sailboats. I stay well offshore and don't think about trying to get into the few inlets which all have shifting shoals.

From Jamaica Bay why not go up the East River and do Long Island Sound? It's longer but much more pleasant.

[CarlF]

Also noticed that Sunday calls for 17kn NE winds. No time to be off that coast going East. If you don't get a recommendation for a good harbor for Saturday night, I'd wait until Monday to leave or do Long Island Sound.

[JeffDPT]

Fire Island Inlet is possible if you don't oppose incoming tide and the North wind. The Sore Thumb is right inside for anchoring (no going ashore). Once inside, following the channel to the East gets you to the Fire Island towns for restaurants.

The next stop is Shinnecock. A long way from Jamaica. About eight hours from FI Inlet. Docking and anchoring inside to the West.

Moriches Inlet is a potentially expensive crap shoot. Can look at it as you go by and decide if it is passable.

Good Luck

[Trina]

Thank you for your advice! They went into Fire Island Inlet tonight, and it worked out the way Jeff suggested. You are a great sailing community!