### Pilotage Plan: Alexandria, VA, to Mount Vernon, VA**Route Overview**Embarking from Alexandria, VA, your journey to Mount Vernon will take you along the beautiful and historically rich waters of the Potomac River. This route is particularly suitable for recreational boaters, families, and history enthusiasts who appreciate scenic views and peaceful waters. The distance is relatively short, making it manageable for weekend outings or day trips. With notable landmarks, beautiful bays for shelter, and navigational aids along the way, this trip promises both tranquility and excitement.---**Starting Point: Alexandria, VA**As you set off from the bustling docks of Alexandria, be sure to check local weather conditions. The Potomac can be subject to sudden changes, so planning for variability will enhance safety. Before departure, ensure your vessel is sea-ready with comprehensive safety equipment on board, including life jackets, flares, and a fully stocked first-aid kit.---**Sailing the Potomac: Key Navigation Points**1. **Departing Alexandria**: Utilize your charts and electronic navigation tools as you plot your course north on the Potomac. Stay alert for commercial shipping traffic, especially around the waterfront area where the river opens up.2. **Historical Landmarks**: As you navigate, keep an eye out for the historic George Washington Masonic National Memorial, visible from the river. This striking structure serves not only as a great landmark but also as a reminder of the area’s rich history.3. **Navigational Aids**: Pay attention to navigational buoys marking the shipping channels. You'll encounter several leading markers, including the 'D' marks, which indicate you’re near the main shipping lane. Observing the water depths is crucial; the Potomac is generally deep enough for most recreational boats but can have shallower areas.---**Shelter Bays and Points of Interest**4. **Hunting Creek**: About a mile into your journey, consider detouring to Hunting Creek, which provides a sheltered bay ideal for weather changes. It’s a beautiful spot for a quick break or a picnic aboard your vessel.5. **Fort Washington Park**: Continue towards Fort Washington, a preserved military fort that stands watch over the river. You may dock temporarily to explore the grounds, which offer stunning views of both the river and the surrounding areas. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and absorb some history.6. **Small Muddy Creek**: If winds pick up or storms brew, this small inlet on the east side provides excellent refuge with series of docks where you can find safe anchorage.---**Final Approach to Mount Vernon**7. **Navigating past the Mount Vernon estate**: As you draw closer to your destination, the iconic Mount Vernon estate will come into view. The estate of George Washington is not only picturesque from the water but offers docking facilities for visitors and knowledgeable guides for those who want to explore.8. **Final Checks**: As you approach the Mount Vernon docks, be mindful of boat lanes, as there may be local traffic to navigate. Make sure to follow all protocol regarding docking and respect private properties and signage.---**Regulations and Local Considerations**Throughout your journey, adhere to boating regulations, including speed limits in specified areas to ensure both your safety and that of others on the water. Be aware that the Potomac is a busy river with various vessel types, from leisure crafts to commercial barges. Also, sound signals and right-of-way rules apply; stay informed and ready to react.---**Recommended Boating Apps**To enhance your experience on this trip, utilizing navigation apps like Savvy Navvy will be invaluable for route planning and real-time updates. Coupled with charts, these tools allow for easy tracking of local hazards and weather conditions. You may want to consider additional apps such as Navionics and Windy to analyze wind speeds and patterns if you’re keen on sailing.---In conclusion, this route from Alexandria to Mount Vernon is a splendid option for a boating trip that offers a harmonious balance between safety and enjoyment. With beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and sheltering bays, it promises an experience rich in both adventure and learning for boater enthusiasts of all skill levels. Enjoy the journey on the storied waters of the Potomac!