Mashomack Preserve Cruising Guide:
Navigation & Important Waypoints

Our Navigation section is broken down into four section; Approaching the Harbors, Hazards and Important Waypoints.

Approaching the Harbors....

As you approach both Majors Harbor and Smith Cove you will need to be aware of some hazards on the Eastern end of Mashomack and outside Sag Harbor.  Also, the tides that run past both Cedar point and the South Ferry are very strong and you may need to check the tides before planning a trip to this area.  

Hazards around Mashomack...

There are a few areas on concern around Mashoack:  

• Rocks off Nicolls Point: These rocks off Mashomack are one of the biggest hazards around Shelter Island.  For years these two rocks were unmarked and sitting 18 inches below the surface approximately .35 miles from shore. We know of two large 40+ foot boats that have hit these rocks causing severe damage.  Luckily this year they finally but a hazard marker out there to mark the location.  The can is places east of the actual location of the rocks so pass the marker on the east side.  There are two lobster pots marking the exact location of the two rocks.  For waypoints of the hazard marker and rocks see below.  For a close up image of the rock during low tide.....click here. 
• Shallows off Sag Harbor:  As you round Mashomack Point you need to be aware of the Shallows off Sag Harbor.  Looking at the area, it would appear that you can go directly towards Sag Harbor, disregard the channel markers, and not have any problems.  This would be a very costly mistake.  The hazard marker indicates the northern point of these shallows.  For more information on the  hazards outside Mashomack see our Sag Harbor Cruising Guide.
• Fishing nets inside Majors Harbor: As you approach Majors Harbor there are some fishing nets on the eastern shore of Majors Harbor.  The nets should not get in your way unless you come too close to Majors Harbors South-Eastern Shoreline.  The nets are marked at night with a yellow flashing light.  Click here for an image on a chart.  Click here for an image of the nets.
• Mashomack Coastline:  The Coast line from Majors Harbor to Smith Cove is extremely rocky.  Some of these larger rocks are far enough out to cause some damage to a curious boater.  If you plan on going close to the shoreline (within 15 feet), remember to proceed with caution and be aware of some isolated rocks.  Click here for an image. 
  

Important Waypoints...

Buoy Number	Location	Chart Image	JPG Picture
Cedar Point Green 3 Tower: Located next to Cedar Point Lighthouse.	41° 02.44' N 072° 15.78' W latest position taken 7/1/01
#6 Red Nun: Off Cedar Point reroute to Coecles	41° 02.34' N 072° 16.21' W latest position taken 7/1/01
HAZARD BUOY:   Hazard Buoy for Rocks off Nicolls Pt., Mashomack, Shelter Is.	41° 03.04' N 072° 16.07' W latest position taken 7/1/01
#15 Green FL:  Near South Ferry near North Haven	41° 02.60' N 072° 18.69' W Latest position taken on 7/1/01
SPLIT ROCK:  In Smith Cove	41° 03.05' N 072° 18.36' W Latest position taken on 7/1/01
HAZARD BUOY:  located off Sag Harbor	41° 0126' N 072° 16.79' W Latest position taken on 7/1/01
For more waypoints see Waypoints Around Shelter Island.