**Pilotage Plan: Sailing from Atlantic City, NJ to Cape May, NJ****Departure: Atlantic City, New Jersey** You’ll start your journey in Atlantic City, famous for its boardwalk and casino scene. Make sure to check local weather conditions before you set off, as the coastal waters can become choppy. The city has a bustling harbor, but be mindful of yacht traffic and boaters eager to enjoy the local attractions.**Setting Out: Navigating the Absecon Inlet** As you depart from the Atlantic City marina, you’ll need to navigate through Absecon Inlet. Pay close attention to the channel markers here; the inlet can be shallow in places, especially at low tide. Follow the markers carefully to avoid sandbars, particularly on the south side of the inlet. Just a short distance after exiting the inlet, you’ll emerge into the open Atlantic. Ensure that you've set your GPS or chart plotter accordingly; a reliable charting app like savvy navvy can help you monitor your position in real-time. **En Route: Points of Interest and Hazards** As you sail southward towards Cape May, your path will take you past several noteworthy landmarks. First, keep an eye on **Brigantine Island** to the north. Depending on your speed and the day’s weather, this could be a great stop for lunch or a brief exploration. The island offers some beautiful beaches and wildlife refuge areas, ideal for a quick stroll before you continue your journey.As you press on, watch for **Little Egg Inlet** to the south. This area can be tricky, as the currents can flow rapidly during outgoing tides. A good place to anchor temporarily, Little Egg Harbor is known for its rustic beauty and wildlife. Always adhere to local boating regulations, as parts of the inlet are designated for no-wake zones to preserve the local ecosystems.You can also consider anchoring at **Great Egg Harbor Bay**, a reliable shelter from inclement weather should conditions become rough. This bay is known for its calm waters, which can provide a welcoming respite and a picnic spot if you need a break from sailing.**Navigational Considerations** As you plot your course, know that the waters south of Atlantic City can be heavily trafficked, particularly on weekends in the summer months. Maintain a lookout for other vessels, particularly fishing boats and jet skis, which frequent these waters.Use navigational aids like the **Brady's Marina Light** and watch for the **Cape May Inlet Buoy** as you approach your destination. Both serve as essential waypoints to ensure you stay on course. Properly marked navigation aids can help you adjust your heading as needed, especially while transitioning through the narrow inlet leading into Cape May.**Arrival: Cape May, New Jersey** Your journey culminates at Cape May, a charming coastal town with a rich history and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Upon entering Cape May Harbor, look for the **Cape May Lighthouse**; it’s a popular landmark and perfect for photos.Unlike Atlantic City, the pace here tends to slow down, giving you the chance to enjoy the local shops, restaurants, and interesting historical sites. Not to mention, if you’re keen to explore marine life, you could schedule a dolphin watching tour or visit the Cape May County Zoo.**Final Safety Considerations** Throughout your trip, always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Monitor weather apps and VHF radio broadcasts for updates on conditions. Have life jackets accessible for all passengers, and ensure your safety equipment is in good working order before you set out. This route from Atlantic City to Cape May is particularly suitable for intermediate to advanced boaters who are comfortable reading charts and handling potential changes in weather. With numerous spots for shelter and fascinating landmarks along the way, this trip offers both safety and enjoyment, making it an unforgettable maritime experience. For extra guidance, consider keeping the savvy navvy app handy for route planning and on-water navigation, ensuring you have all the necessary tools for a safe and fun adventure!