**Pilotage Plan: Bayfield, WI to Cornucopia, WI**Embarking on a boat trip from Bayfield to Cornucopia offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and navigational excitement. This route is tailored for recreational boaters who appreciate the tranquility of Lake Superior and the promise of discovery along the Apostle Islands. Safety takes precedence, but adventure and exploration are never far behind.### Route Overview**Starting Point: Bayfield, WI** Located at coordinates -90.757, 46.8518, Bayfield serves as an ideal launching point. This quaint town provides ample amenities, including fuel docks, grocery stores, and other facilities. Before setting out, make sure to check recent weather conditions and pay attention to local marine forecasts.**Destination: Cornucopia, WI** Located at -91.102, 46.858, Cornucopia is a charming harbor town with breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere. Key amenities like restaurants and lodging are available for those wishing to extend their stay.### Key Waypoints and Navigation ConsiderationsYour journey will span approximately 16 nautical miles, hugging the northeastern shoreline of the Bayfield Peninsula and taking in stunning views of the Apostle Islands. Here’s how to navigate this route effectively:1. **Initial Departure from Bayfield** Upon departing Bayfield, ensure you are familiar with the local navigation aids—especially the markers guiding you out of the harbor. Look for the Bayfield Harbor Light to assist you in a safe exit.2. **Rounding Bayfield Peninsula** As you head north, maintain a careful watch for the shallower areas that can be found around the point of the peninsula. The waters are often busy with recreational boats, so giving others plenty of room is advisable.3. **Entering Chequamegon Bay** Keep an eye on navigation buoys to help guide you through the bay. Stay alert for fishing vessels and their nets, as this is an active fishing area. Pay attention to local fishing regulations if you’re tempted to drop a line.4. **Shelter Options** If the weather takes an unexpected turn, consider docking at the nearby **Little Sand Bay**. This bay offers excellent shelter from westerly winds and is a great spot to ride out a squall. There’s also a small public beach perfect for a quick break.5. **Continuing Towards Cornucopia** As you leave Chequamegon Bay, maintain your course toward Cornucopia. The stretch of water between the two points features fewer obstacles, but weather changes can occur rapidly—stay vigilant. Using applications like Savvy Navvy for real-time tracking can enhance your navigation safety.### Points of Interest- **Apostle Islands National Lakeshore**: Detour a bit and explore this incredible national lakeshore, known for its stunning sea caves and beautiful islands. Depending on your time and conditions, you might find a great spot to drop anchor and enjoy a picnic. - **Cornucopia Beach**: Upon arrival, enjoy the picturesque beach at Cornucopia. It is a great spot for picnics or a leisurely swim in the pristine waters of Lake Superior.### Navigational Aids and Safety Considerations - **Lighthouses**: Pay close attention to the buoys and lighthouses, particularly around the Apostle Islands. Markers will guide you safely to your destination. Take note of the **Michigan Island Lighthouse** and the **Devil’s Island Lighthouse**, both crucial for visual bearings.- **Weather Monitoring**: Ensure you have reliable means to monitor local weather conditions. Before your trip, download weather apps such as Windy or NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed of any potential changes.- **Regulatory Observance**: Lastly, be aware of boating regulations in the area. The Apostle Islands often have seasonal restrictions regarding wildlife preservation, so familiarize yourself with local ordinances before considerable exploration.### Ideal Boater ProfileThis route caters to recreational boaters of all experience levels—whether you’re just starting or possess years of experience. With scenic views, potential stops for exploration, and sufficient shelter options along the way, it is a perfect blend of adventure and safety. Embarking on a trip from Bayfield to Cornucopia will leave you enchanted with the natural beauty of Lake Superior while ensuring safety at the forefront of your nautical experience. Happy boating!