### Pilotage Plan from Alicante, ES to Alicante, ES#### OverviewThis journey takes you from the vibrant city of Alicante on Spain’s Costa Blanca coastline, weaving through breathtaking coastal views and picturesque bays, ultimately making a loop to return to the starting point. This route is well-suited for recreational boaters looking for a blend of safety and exploration while obeying navigation regulations.#### Route Description- **Starting Point:** Alicante (0.0715, 38.6386)- **Ending Point:** Alicante (-0.3839, 38.4315)The plan is to travel in a circular path around the coastline, navigating both open waters and sheltered bays, while taking advantage of the area’s spectacular landscapes, historical landmarks, and strategic shelter locations.#### Key Leg: Alicante to the Bay of San JuanAs you begin your journey, head out of the Port of Alicante towards the northeast. Maintain a distance of about 0.5 nautical miles from the shore to safely clear any fishing vessels and local traffic. **Navigation Aids & Hazards:**- **Alicante Lighthouse:** Your initial heading should align with the lighthouse, which serves as a crucial waypoint.- **Hazards:** Watch for rocky outcrops near Punta del Raset and local fishing activities to avoid collisions. **Point of Interest:**The beautiful Playa de San Juan is renowned for its fine sandy beaches. A great place for a break if conditions are favorable.#### Shelter Stop: San Juan BaySan Juan Bay provides excellent shelter and is well-protected from prevailing winds. The beach has further amenities, making it an appropriate stop for refreshments or a swim. Should conditions worsen, this bay offers a safe haven.#### Leg Two: San Juan to CampelloDeparting from San Juan Bay, you'll head southeast toward the quaint village of Campello. This part offers wonderful coastal scenery with rocky cliffs and clear blue waters. The impressive view of the Sierra de Aitana mountains provides a stunning backdrop.**Navigational Considerations:**- **Important Markers:** Pay attention to the buoys and markers along the entrance to Campello, particularly Port Campello, which has facilities for fueling and mooring.- **Literacy of Local Regulations:** The local fishing boundaries are strictly enforced; ensure you remain within general navigation routes.**Attraction Stop: Campello’s Promenade**Once docked, you can explore Campello's beautiful promenade lined with restaurants, along with the historic castle ruins of ‘Cabo de la Huerta’.#### Leg Three: Return to AlicanteFrom Campello, return towards Alicante by following the coastline southwest. This leg can be particularly mesmerizing at sunset, casting beautiful hues across the waters.**Navigational Reminder:**- **Alicante Harbor:** Maintain a vigilant lookout for vessels entering and exiting the harbor. Be prepared for potential crosswinds, especially at dusk. About 1 mile from the harbor entrance, keep a close eye on the navigation buoys. They’ll guide you safely back to pier alongside other water traffic. ### Safety ConsiderationsSafety remains paramount during your voyage:- Always check the weather forecast before embarking, as conditions can change quickly along the coastline.- Have all safety equipment on board, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit.- Monitor your fuel consumption, especially when making detours for exploration.### Recommended ApplicationsTo enhance your navigation experience, consider using:- **Savvy Navvy:** A user-friendly app that provides easy routing and real-time data.- **Navionics:** For detailed nautical charts of the area.- **Windy:** Helpful for tracking wind conditions.### ConclusionThis circular journey offers a perfect blend of safety and exploration for any recreational boater. With ample opportunities for shelter and captivating coastal scenery, you'll gain both enjoyment and navigational prowess while navigating the stunning Costa Blanca. Sail safely, and let the coast reveal its wonders!