**Pilotage Plan: Alexandria, VA to Arlington, VA****Overview**Embarking on a boat trip from Alexandria to Arlington offers a delightful mix of urban scenery and historical landmarks. This short journey, spanning approximately 5 nautical miles along the Potomac River, is perfect for recreational boaters, particularly those looking for a scenic day trip or a peaceful afternoon adventure away from urban hustle.**Pre-Trip Preparations**Before casting off, ensure you have all safety equipment on board: life jackets, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and flares. It's advisable to check the weather conditions and be aware of any small craft advisories. Make use of your preferred boating apps, such as Savvy Navvy, to aid in navigation, monitor weather changes, and receive real-time updates.**Route Description**1. **Departure from Alexandria** Start your journey at Alexandria’s waterfront. Before you head out, take in the bustling atmosphere of this historical port city. Make sure your navigation system is set, paying particular attention to the markers that delineate the channel.2. **The Potomac River** As you head north on the Potomac River, keep in mind that this portion can be busy with commercial traffic and recreational boaters, especially on weekends. Maintain safe speed limits to ensure a smooth journey and be vigilant of other vessels.3. **Navigational Aids** On this route, you'll encounter several navigational aids. Look for the Potomac River green buoys, which will guide you along the navigable channels. The prominent Washington Channel is to the east, where larger vessels may frequent; maintaining a safe distance and monitoring VHF channels is ideal.4. **Points of Interest** While cruising along, consider stopping to visit some notable landmarks: - **George Washington Memorial Parkway**: This scenic parkway runs parallel to the river and offers stunning views of the natural landscape and historic sites. - **National Harbor**: Just a short diversion eastward, this vibrant hub features shops, restaurants, and the iconic Capital Wheel for panoramic views of the area. - **The Woodrow Wilson Bridge**: As you approach Arlington, this bridge arches spectacularly over the Potomac. It’s a great opportunity to take photos and appreciate the engineering marvel.5. **Potential Shelters** Should the weather take a turn for the worse, be aware of nearby shelter options: - **Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve**: A serene spot direct south near the river, it provides back channels where smaller boats can anchor and wait out weather disturbances. - **Four Mile Run**: Located further up near Alexandria, it offers calmer waters and is a good place to take cover if needed.6. **Arrival in Arlington** As you approach Arlington, you'll notice the blend of modern architecture against the backdrop of historical landmarks. Docking options abound; several marinas within vicinity cater to transient boaters. Always remember to check local mooring regulations to remain compliant.**Local Regulations & Restrictions**It is essential to comply with local boating regulations. Be aware of speed limits, particularly in no-wake zones, especially near populated areas and marinas. Also, keep a close watch for any construction or ferry activity which may occasionally alter normal routes. Always adhere to any posted notices on navigational changes due to environmental factors.**Final Thoughts**This trip along the Potomac River from Alexandria to Arlington is not only highly navigable but also rich in sights and experiences. Perfect for recreational boaters or those wishing to introduce newcomers to boating, this short, scenic route mixes safety and enjoyment. Keep your eyes on the water, use your navigational aids wisely, and relish in the journey through Virginia's historical treasures. Whether you're taking a quick hop or savoring a leisurely day on the water, this adventure is bound to delight any boating enthusiast.