### Pilotage Plan: Atlantic Beach, NC to Wilmington, NC#### Route OverviewEmbarking on a boat trip from Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, to Wilmington, NC, is a delightful journey that offers the beauty of the North Carolina coastline. This route stretches roughly 40 nautical miles along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), a protected waterway ideal for both seasoned and novice boaters. The route is rich with natural scenery, and it provides ample opportunities for shelter, should the weather turn adverse.#### Departure: Atlantic Beach, NCBefore you set sail from Atlantic Beach, take a moment to enjoy the gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Bogue Sound. Make sure to check your weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly. - **Local Hazards:** Watch for shallow areas and sandbars as you depart. ATM markers and navigational buoys will guide you past potential hazards as you enter the ICW.- **Points of Interest:** Consider a quick stop at Fort Macon State Park, where you could explore the historic Civil War fortification before hitting the water.#### Along the Course to Wilmington1. **Navigating the ICW:** As you head southward, you will mostly be navigating the ICW, which is well-marked, but attention to navigation aids is crucial. Key markers to look for: - **G Marker 1:** This marker indicates shallow spots in the channel. Maintain a good speed for deep draft vessels to navigate past. - **Daybeacon 7:** Marks a right turn; stay close to this marker but keep an eye on the shallows.2. **Shelter Opportunities:** Should conditions deteriorate or a storm approach, several bays and channels provide excellent shelter: - **Bogue Inlet:** A great place to anchor if conditions on the horizon look promising for a storm. - **Masonboro Inlet:** This inlet offers calm waters and a scenic harbor area if you need to take a break.3. **Points of Interest:** En route, you can explore: - **Hammocks Beach State Park:** A slight detour but well worth the anchor drop for those wanting a beach day away from the typical crowds. - **Happy Hour at a Local Marina:** Stopping at one of the marinas along the ICW for refreshments and a meal adds a relaxing dimension to your trip.#### Arrival: Wilmington, NCAs you approach Wilmington, take a moment to prepare for entering the Waccamaw River at the northern edge of the city. The downtown area is dotted with historic sites, scenic waterfront parks, and buzzing restaurants.- **Traffic and Nav Aids:** Pay close attention as you enter urban waters. Follow the signals, and heed local rules regarding no-wake zones to ensure a smooth and compliant entry into the bustling port.- **Safety Considerations:** Keep a VHF radio handy to communicate with local authorities if needed. It’s also wise to have backup safety gear, including life jackets and flares, as well as a first-aid kit readily available.#### Navigation RegulationsBoat-wise, adhere to speed limits in congested areas and mandatory no-wake zones, particularly as you approach Wilmington. Always verify local fishing regulations and safety protocols, including any turtle nesting considerations in the spring/summer months.### ConclusionThis route from Atlantic Beach to Wilmington encapsulates the true essence of North Carolina's coastal charm. It’s ideal for recreational boaters seeking adventure as well as newcomers looking for a relaxed sail. With ample shelter options and a feast of local attractions, you'll not only enjoy a scenic voyage but also feel confident navigating safely along the ICW. Don’t forget to leverage apps like Savvy Navvy for real-time updates and navigational guidance to enhance your journey! Happy sailing!