While it might be a little faster to go by Welches. I think many people who are new to the area see the area around the witches as wide open and may be tempted to take a short but there and find themselve on the rocks. Other than the Witches...and the channel between Sandy and Long Island. Its a pretty easy ride.
However, I much prefer going between Bear and Pine. There is a NWZ right there so don't break the law and keep the Bear mail dock close to your right and you are fine. There is a set of channel markers north of 5 Mile Island then its straight to the NWZ by LI Bridge. Since you haven't done the 6 Pack...just be familiar with it as it is a set of 6 channel markers a few miles east of LI Bridge. I would not venture through the Graveyard as a novice (and don't do it know though I've navigated that area for 10 years. I think going b/t Melvin Island and Chases Island is only a little longer but much less stressful. From there are you clear into MB.
Note that if you head to Lees Mills or GB...there are more challenging spots heading there so mark those on your Bizer.
|