Norwalk Harbor Inlet

About

Introduction:

Norwalk and Norwalk Harbor are located north of the Norwalk Islands off Long Island Sounds about eight miles northeast of Stamford and 12 miles southeast of Bridgeport. Norwalk is a center of boating activity. Many times during high season, the area resembles much busier bodies of water like the Chesapeake Bay or Newport with boats comoing and going, people relaxing on the beaches and pets frolicking in the water.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 12368.

The only disadvantage to Norwalk Harbor’s location from a navigation standpoint is the way it is situated behind the Norwalk Islands. These islands form a shoal- and rock-lined barrier that prevent (except for shoal-draft boats with advance local knowledge) direct southern entry form Long Island Sound. Although there are breaks in certain locations along the island, most of them are marked on the charts with “awash at low tide” and “rocks.” We recommend using the prescribed route below.

Greens Ledge light sits on the westernmost tip of Greens Ledge about three miles southwest of Norwalk Harbor. Once you have picked up the light, head northeast along Greens Ledge to flashing red buoy “2A” and green can “1A” at the beginning of Shefield Harbor.

Green can “1” south of Tavern Island marks the beginning of the official entrance channel to Norwalk Harbor. As you proceed to the northeast, pick up and follow flashing red buoy “2,” green can “3,” flashing red buoy “4,” green can “5,” green can “7,” red nun “8,” green can “9,” and flashing red “10,” just south of Mantresa Island. Past the lighte bulkheads at Mantresa Island, work your way in between flashing green “11” and Long Beach past the series of nun buoys to quick flashing red “14,” which marks the northward turn into Norwalk Harbor.

There are no less than 20 marinas along Norwalk Harbor and many of them accept transient guests. Check our detailed marina listings prior to your arrival to make arrangements for a tie up once you arrive.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.