Bainbridge Island to Shelton by boat

Pilotage Plan: Bainbridge Island, WA to Shelton, WA

Overview
Your voyage from Bainbridge Island to Shelton promises to be a mix of scenic beauty and strategic planning. This route is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who are comfortable navigating Puget Sound's rich marine landscapes while keeping an eye on safety. With a blend of open waters and sheltered bays, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the unique character of the Washington coastline.

Initial Departure from Bainbridge Island
Start your journey by departing from Bainbridge Island, located at the coordinates (long/lat: -122.513072, 47.616405). This charming island offers a vibrant marina and is a great place to stock up on supplies. Before setting out, ensure your vessel is seaworthy, your navigation equipment is functional, and you have all safety gear on board.

Points of Interest
As you head out, you’ll want to keep these notable spots in mind:

1. Eagle Harbor: Just to the north, this well-sheltered harbor provides a safe anchorage. It's an excellent spot for a brief stop to stretch your legs or grab a walk along the waterfront.
2. Point White: This landmark is a great reference point, marking the entrance to the more extensive waters of Puget Sound. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you navigate through this area.

Navigating the Route
As you make your way towards Shelton, follow these key navigational steps:

1. Pass through Rich Passage: The route will take you through Rich Passage, which connects Bainbridge Island with the mainland. Be aware of currents in this constricted area, as they can be strong, especially on an ebb tide. Utilize your depth sounder regularly to navigate safely.
2. Check for Vessels: Rich Passage can be busy with ferry traffic, especially around peak times. Stay alert and be mindful of the Washington State Ferries as they ply their regular routes.
3. Markers and Aids to Navigation: Keep an eye on navigational aids like buoys and lighthouses to help guide your course. Look for the green buoys marking the channel; you will want to stay between them while navigating through narrower passages.
4. Potato Point and Longbranch: As you move toward the southern end of Carr Inlet, look for Potato Point and the community of Longbranch. This area can be an excellent spot to drop anchor and explore the shoreline, but do keep an eye on the tides, as this area can be shallow.

Shelter and Safety Considerations
Continuing south, you’ll want to note the following sheltered locations should weather conditions deteriorate:

McNeil Island: This island offers a good anchorage on its northeastern side, providing shelter from winds typical in the sound.

Case Inlet: A larger bay that can serve as an excellent place to take refuge if needed, with flanking shores providing ample options.

Safety should always be your priority, so make sure you are aware of the weather updates. The Hood Canal area is prone to rapid weather changes, so always check the forecasts beforehand, and be prepared to adjust your plans.

Reaching Shelton
Your destination, Shelton, lies at the serene shores of the southern Puget Sound. Upon approach, the landmark of Shelton Marinawill guide you in; it’s well-marked and offers friendly facilities to dock and enjoy the waterfront. Be prepared for a bit of current as you enter the marina.

Before you embark on your journey, it’s prudent to equip your smart device with useful boating apps, including savvy navvy. This app can provide real-time navigation information and alert you about local hazards, ensuring you stay on course and informed throughout your trip.

ThisPilotage Plan outlines a safe and enjoyable route from Bainbridge Island to Shelton. The scenery and maritime community encountered en route offers a wonderful experience that's truly unique to the Pacific Northwest. Make sure to pay attention to your surroundings, obey local regulations, and enjoy the journey safely!