### Pilotage Plan: Ashtabula, Ohio to Erie, Pennsylvania#### OverviewThis journey from Ashtabula to Erie along the southern shore of Lake Erie offers boaters a delightful experience filled with scenic views, potential wildlife sightings, and ample opportunities to explore local history. This trip is particularly suitable for powerboats and sailboats with a moderate cruising speed, allowing you to savor the journey while maintaining safety at the forefront.#### Route DescriptionStarting your adventure in **Ashtabula, Ohio**, you will embark on a route that's approximately **30 nautical miles** east-northeast to the port city of **Erie, Pennsylvania**. The journey typically takes a few hours depending on your vessel’s speed and the weather conditions.#### Shelter Bays and Points of Interest1. **Ashtabula Harbor**: Before departing, ensure you visit Ashtabula Harbor itself. This area boasts beautiful waterfront views and historic sites like the Ashtabula Lighthouse. There are also marinas available for oiling the gears if needed. 2. **Conneaut Creek**: About 12 nautical miles into your trip, you can consider stopping at the mouth of Conneaut Creek. It's a lovely spot to drop anchor, especially if the weather becomes unpredictable. Enjoy the serene creek surroundings and watch for migrating birds.3. **Lakefront Park, Conneaut**: Should you decide to make a short detour after Conneaut Creek, Lakefront Park offers expansive green space and beach access, perfect for a picnic or a stroll along the shore.4. **Presque Isle State Park**: As you approach Erie, Pennsylvania, be sure to note Presque Isle State Park which lies just off the shore. This natural wonder is perfect for anchoring and exploring the park’s trails or just enjoying the beautiful beaches it offers.#### Navigational ConsiderationsAs you navigate this route, you will need to pay attention to various navigational aids:- **Lighthouses**: Keep an eye out for the **Ashtabula Lighthouse** and **Erie Harbor South Pier Light** which will guide you safely into harbor. - **Buoys and Markers**: Follow the designated buoys that outline the navigable channels. Pay attention to the color and shape of buoys—red markers indicate the right side when entering from the sea, while greens are on your left.- **Depth**: Be aware of potential shallow spots, especially as you near the coastline, and ensure you have updated charts on hand to avoid grounding on reefs or sandbars.#### Weather and Local ConditionsAlways prioritize safety by checking local marine forecasts before setting out and remain aware of changing conditions throughout your trip. Lake Erie can be unpredictable, with rapid weather changes. Having a reliable weather app, such as **Savvy Navvy**, can provide you with real-time updates.#### Regulations and Considerations- **No-wake Zones**: Be attentive to no-wake zones especially in harbor areas and near marinas. Exceeding speed limits can create hazardous conditions for smaller vessels and other water activities.- **Fishing Regulations**: If you plan to fish, ensure you have a valid Ohio fishing license and understand the local regulations regarding seasons and catch limits.#### ConclusionThis route from Ashtabula to Erie is not just a means to an end but an engaging and relaxing journey. The diverse landscapes, historical landmarks, and opportunities to explore nature ensure that your journey is memorable while keeping safety at the forefront. Happy boating!