Planning a unique and unforgettable boating adventure? The Down East Circle Route offers a captivating journey through diverse waterways, rich history, and stunning scenery. This comprehensive guide answers frequently asked questions to help you prepare for this incredible voyage.
1. How long is the Down East Circle Route?
The Down East Circle Route, starting and ending in New York City, covers approximately 2400 nautical miles, including several short side trips. This makes it an ideal cruise for a 3-month summer vacation.
2. When is the best time to embark on this route?
The optimal time to begin your journey up the Hudson River and into the Erie Canal is early to mid-June. Water levels are generally high enough but not excessive during this period, and canal traffic is typically lighter.
3. Are there ample marinas and fueling facilities along the route?
Yes, the Down East Circle Route caters well to transient cruisers. Docking is available every night, if desired, and is even recommended in areas with strong currents. Facilities are conveniently located in towns and villages, providing access to supplies and services. Dockage rates in Canada are generally more affordable than those in New England during the summer season. Fuel is readily accessible along the entire route, either from fuel pumps or via truck delivery.
A map highlighting the Down East Circle Route, showcasing the journey from New York City, through the Erie Canal, St. Lawrence Seaway, and back down the Atlantic coast.
4. What kind of weather conditions can I anticipate?
Expect hot and humid conditions from New York City to Montreal and Quebec City, as much of this section follows inland waterways. North of Quebec City, the weather becomes significantly cooler and less humid. During the summer, low-pressure systems tend to track north of the St. Lawrence River, resulting in prevailing westerly winds and generally fair weather. Changes in wind direction can bring rain. Fog is possible on the St. Lawrence River near Tadoussac and along the Gaspé coast. Fog and rain are more common along the Atlantic coast in June and July. Mid-August through September is the ideal time to cruise Nova Scotia and the Maine coast, as the wind typically shifts to a more westerly or northwesterly direction, pushing the fog offshore.
5. Should I be worried about the locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway?
A significant advantage of the Down East Circle Route is that you’ll be going down through the seven seaway locks. “Down locking” is a simple process, as the locks drain from the center, gently pulling your boat away from the wall. This is a quick and easy procedure. “Up locking” can be much more challenging for smaller vessels due to potential turbulence. The Erie Canal locks are smaller and do not typically present turbulence issues.
6. What are the height and depth restrictions for this route?
Height and depth restrictions primarily apply to the Erie Canal, where vertical clearance is limited to 20 feet, and the depth restriction is 14 feet at the lock sills. If you choose to travel via Lake Champlain, the vertical clearance restriction is 15.5 feet, with a 12-foot clearance at the lock sills. While the Champlain route bypasses the St. Lawrence Seaway locks, you’ll miss highlights such as the Thousand Islands, Kingston, and Montreal.
An illustration of a boat navigating through a lock on the Erie Canal, emphasizing the height and depth restrictions involved.
7. How remote is the Down East Circle Route?
Contrary to what you might think, the route is not remote at all. Marine facilities and fuel are consistently available. Airports are located at regular intervals, and most towns offer car rentals. The U.S. border is always within a day’s drive. Most overnight stops have at least one grocery store for re-provisioning, and many towns host weekly farmers’ markets offering locally grown produce.
8. Do I need to speak French?
While most people in Quebec, especially in larger cities, speak English, you may encounter smaller villages along the St. Lawrence River where English is less common. However, this shouldn’t pose a significant problem. A little creative sign language will likely suffice.
9. Can I bring firearms into Canada?
No, do not bring firearms into Canada. Firearms must be declared to customs and will be held at your port of entry until you depart the country. Since the Down East Circle Route doesn’t return you to your original entry point, this poses a problem. Failure to declare firearms can result in substantial fines. Traveling through Canada is safe, and firearms are unnecessary.
10. How does this route compare to the Great Loop cruise?
The Down East Circle Route is generally considered easier and requires less time than the Great Loop. It can be completed in a single summer season, whereas the Great Loop typically takes about a year. The Down East route also boasts more dramatic scenery and more wildlife viewing opportunities compared to some sections of the Great Loop. Moreover, it involves less commercial traffic than parts of the Great Loop. Furthermore, this cruise immerses you in areas of significant historical importance, where events unfolded that forever changed the course of North America.
11. What type of boat is suitable for this trip?
Any vessel capable of navigating the Intracoastal Waterway and crossing to the Bahamas is suitable for the Down East Circle Route. The majority of the route is on inland waters, with the Atlantic coast portion broken into easy daytime hops. An offshore passage back to Maine is optional, as Nova Scotia to Maine can be completed with coastal daytime hops.
The Down East Circle Route offers a unique and rewarding cruising experience. With careful planning and preparation, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Prepare for breathtaking vistas and unforgettable moments as you navigate the waterways of the Down East Circle Route. This route will make for a memorable summer adventure.
