**Pilotage Plan from Anna Maria, FL to St. Petersburg, FL****Departure Point: Anna Maria, FL**Coordinates: Lon -82.7208, Lat 27.5258 Anna Maria Island is known for its beautiful beaches and charming atmosphere. Before you set sail, it might be worthwhile to explore the island’s quaint shops or grab a bite at a local café. It’s also recommended to fuel up here, ensuring your vessel is in tip-top shape for the journey ahead.**Notes on Weather and Safety** Before departing, always check the weather conditions. The Gulf of Mexico can be unpredictable, and it’s prudent to have a change in plans if storms are forecasted. Stay updated through reliable apps. Besides 'savvy navvy', consider using marine weather stations or NOAA weather channels for real-time alerts.**Route Overview** The direct distance from Anna Maria to St. Petersburg is approximately 18 nautical miles, making it a relatively short and pleasant day trip suitable for both experienced and novice boaters. The suggested route primarily follows the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), which provides a sheltered path and reduces exposure to open water hazards.**Leg 1: Leaving Anna Maria** As you depart from Anna Maria, navigate southward into the Sarasota Bay. Use the markers in the bay to maintain your course, specifically looking out for buoys indicating local traffic patterns. After you leave the harbor, be wary of low tides that can expose sandbars, particularly at the north side of the bay. **Shelter Point: Sarasota Bay** Sarasota Bay is a great area for seeking shelter should the weather shift unexpectedly. The bay has several anchorages, such as the prominent nearby waters around Bird Key and the southern tip of Siesta Key. **Leg 2: Navigating through the Gulf and Intracoastal Waterway** As you exit Sarasota Bay and head into the Gulf, keep an eye out for marine life, especially during dawn and dusk. This section of the trip brings you closer to open waters, but shortly, you will transition back into the calmness of the Intracoastal Waterway. **Navigational Aids** Pay attention to the various buoys and markers, primarily the green and red lateral markers, which will help delineate safe passages. The local Coast Guard may deploy temporary aids, especially around construction areas or coral reefs. Your chartplotter should assist greatly, but having a good paper chart as a backup is wise.**Leg 3: Entering Boca Ciega Bay** As you draw closer to the destination, passing through Boca Ciega Bay presents beautiful waterfront vistas. The bay is also home to a variety of wildlife, so take time to appreciate the view. Be cautious as this area is popular with recreational boaters and has various no-wake zones - you're likely to see small craft, kayakers, and families enjoying the water here. **Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest** Along the way, if time allows, consider stopping at nearby landmarks such as the historic Fort De Soto Park. This park is located on five interconnected islands and features sandy beaches and mangroves, making it an ideal picnic spot and an opportunity for some exploration.**Arrival: St. Petersburg, FL** Coordinates: Lon -82.7147, Lat 27.7153 As you approach St. Petersburg, you’ll enter a bustling marina environment with plenty of available docks. Navigate carefully as local traffic increases significantly. St. Petersburg is rich in cultural landmarks, and upon arrival, you may wish to explore the Salvador Dalí Museum, known for its extensive collection of surrealist art, or enjoy a leisurely walk through the nearby waterfront parks.**Final Considerations** Before docking, ensure you’re aware of local docking regulations, which may have varying fees and requires vessels to follow established approaching speed limits. Contemplate the advisability of reserving a berth in advance, especially during peak seasons when marinas fill quickly.This route provides an enriching experience for those looking to combine a leisurely cruise with natural beauty, cultural richness, and the excitement of navigating Florida’s coastal waters. Emphasizing safety is crucial, and being alert, prepared, and mindful of local regulations will ensure a fantastic outing on the water. Happy sailing!