**Pilotage Plan: Beaufort, North Carolina to New Bern, North Carolina****Overview:**This route from Beaufort to New Bern provides a rich blend of scenic waterways, charming towns, and safe harbor options, making it an ideal trip for recreational boaters who enjoy exploring the beautiful North Carolina coastline and its inland waterways. The journey is suitable for moderate-sized pleasure crafts and offers opportunities for family-friendly activities, making it a perfect escape.**Starting Point: Beaufort, NC**Beaufort, a historic town known for its maritime heritage, vibrant waterfront, and charming boutiques, sets the stage for your adventure. Before you set off, it might be nice to explore the local cuisine, perhaps indulge in some freshly caught seafood, or visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s rich seafaring history.**Route Section 1: Beaufort to Adams Creek**After leaving Beaufort, navigate through Beaufort Inlet. Be cautious of the ship traffic coming from the Port of Morehead City. Proper charting is essential here, as the inlet can be busy and has a shallow approach; hence, ensure your depth sounder is functioning well. From the inlet, proceed towards the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). As you make your way north via the ICW through Taylor Creek, you might catch sight of the scenic islands along the waterfront. It's also worthwhile to keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waters. **Notable Shelter: Adams Creek**Adams Creek is the first significant shelter you’ll reach if weather conditions dictate a stop. It’s well-protected and offers adequate anchorage should a storm suddenly hit or if the winds pick up unexpectedly.**Route Section 2: Adams Creek to Oriental**After leaving Adams Creek and resuming your journey, you’ll head toward the Neuse River. The entrance to Oriental can be tricky due to shoaling, so keep a close watch on local navigation aids and your chart plotter. **Point of Interest: Oriental**Oriental, known as “The Sailing Capital of North Carolina,” makes for an excellent stop. The picturesque town has waterfront parks, dining options, and several marinas where you can refill supplies. Don’t miss the chance to grab a meal at one of the local diners or take a stroll around the quaint historic district.**Route Section 3: Oriental to New Bern**As you leave Oriental, continue along the Neuse River, which offers beautiful vistas and calm water when protected from the prevailing winds. Be on the lookout for local fishermen and recreational boaters. This stretch of the river presents a few navigational challenges; stay alert to the channel markers and avoid straying too close to the banks, which can be shallow.**Arriving in New Bern**The entry into New Bern from the Neuse is straightforward. The downtown area is welcoming, with plenty of facilities for boaters. Once anchored or docked, explore the historic sites such as the Tryon Palace and the picturesque waterfront parks. **Navigation Considerations & Safety:**- **Navigational Aids:** Throughout your journey, consistently refer to the chart for the ICW and navigational aids along the way. The USCG should have all updated channel markers on their website if you need to double-check any changes.- **Weather Planning:** Always check the daily weather forecast before departure. Sudden storms can arise, and having a plan for shelter will be essential. Utilize apps such as Savvy Navvy for real-time weather updates, tide charts, and easy route plotting.- **Regulations:** Ensure compliance with any fishing regulations if you plan to engage in angling and remember to maintain a suitable distance from any manatee zones along the waterways. **Conclusion:**This route from Beaufort to New Bern captures the essence of North Carolina's coastal charm while emphasizing boater safety, making it perfect for families and recreational boaters alike. The combination of stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and accessible harbors for shelter makes this journey not only enjoyable but also prudent for navigating the beautiful intracoastal and river system. Safe travels!