Which Inlet

[osd9]

Hi:

I am expecting to pick up a 410DA at the Marine Max in Lindenhurst this Friday. A MM employee will be on board, but I like to have my own plan in order.

Looking on the maps, it looks like I would have a choice of Fire Island or Jones Beach Inlets. Jones Beach seems like less distance, but may not be less time or less hazardous. Once out of the inlet, the plan is to cut accross the Atlantic into Barnegat Inlet and then inside for a short run in the MM Brant Beach location.

I am very familiar with the Barnegat inlet and the ICW in this area.

My question is....Which Inlet would be best to head out of from the Great Bay in LI. Also, any local knowledge on low water, shoaling, day markers, etc..

thanks,

 

[jg300da]

osd9,

The Fire Island inlet is further east and adds some distance to the trip, but it's all at speed. The Jones inlet is west of Lindenhurst, so it's "on the way" but it requires travelling in the state channel which has several no wake zones. It does allow you to stay inside longer, which is a much better ride if the wind is up. Time wise they are pretty much the same. The water is shallow in either case. The state channel is clearly marked and dredged. Running to the Fire Island inlet requires some local knowledge.

 

[osd9]

jg:

Thanks for the reply...you confirmed what I suspected...similar situation here with Barnegat inlet approaches...

I think you convinced me to go the Fire Island route.....besides...MM is paying for the fuel, and the last thing I need is to run aground in the middle of December.....

thanks,

 

[osd9]

Whoops.....just re-read....you said Fire Island needs local info......does the Jones Beach inlet require local info as well or is it the more clearly marked of the two????

I have no problem following and staying in the channel ..... especially if it is the safer trip...

 

[jg300da]

Jones Inlet is at the western end of Sloop channel which is an extension of the state channel, and is clearly marked. Should be no problem with depth once you're in the channel. The Great South Bay and the cut that brings you south to the state channel is typically 4-8 ft deep. The Marine Max rep should be fairly familiar with these waters. Enjoy the trip.

 

[RobF300]

I would ask one of the captains at MM, im sure they could help you.

Some of the buoys might not be out, so be carefull as it can be very shallow