**Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from Benicia, CA to Vallejo, CA****Route Overview**Starting out from Benicia, California, you'll embark on a delightful short cruise across the scenic waters of the northern San Francisco Bay, culminating at Vallejo. This route is particularly well-suited for recreational boaters, especially those with a passion for picturesque views and a calm cruise experience, while it requires keen attention to navigational details and local conditions to ensure safety.**Sections of the Route****1. Departure from Benicia**Before you head out, ensure that you check the local weather conditions as they can change rapidly in this area. Launch from the Benicia Marina, which provides safe access to the water. As you set off, keep a lookout for Benicia State Recreation Area on your starboard side, a great spot for a scenic hike if you choose to extend your visit. Once on the water, you’ll be in the typical jetty-protected waters of the marina. Maintain a steady pace and enjoy the beautiful city views of Benicia.**2. Navigating the Straight**As you exit Benicia, you’ll enter the relatively tranquil waters of the strait. Pay attention to the navigational buoys placed all along the route leading towards Vallejo; these markers are crucial for avoiding shoals and ensuring you stay in deeper waters. The tidal currents here can be tricky, especially during peak tidal flows. Monitor tidal schedules and adjust your departure time accordingly to ensure a smooth passage.**3. Points of Interest Along the Way**As you approach the Vallejo area, a notable landmark is the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, which lies to the east. It's a historical site on Mare Island worth a visit but be cautious of any restricted areas marked by navigational signs or buoys.Keep an eye out for wildlife; the straights are ideal for birdwatching. Occasionally, you may even spot marine wildlife such as seals and otters. Make sure your camera is ready for those memorable encounters.**4. Shelters and Hiding Spots**Should the weather take a turn for the worse, there are several sheltered areas where you can seek refuge. The Mare Island Strait is an excellent spot where you can anchor in bad weather. Additionally, the waters around Montezuma Slough can provide more protection, though it might come with shallow waters so keeping your draft in check is essential. **5. Arrival at Vallejo**Upon approaching Vallejo, you will be greeted by its easily navigable harbor entrance. The Vallejo Marina is welcoming and offers a range of amenities for boaters. Here, you can tie up easily and head into town to explore local eateries or perhaps visit the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum.**Navigation Considerations**Stay tuned to your marine VHF radio, especially on channels 16 for emergencies and channel 14, which is commonly used for local boating traffic. Be aware of local boating regulations, including wake zones and speed limits near marinas and residential zones. The area can become busy, especially on weekends, so keep a diligent lookout for other boaters, kayakers, and watercraft.**Safety Recommendations**For your boating adventure, having a comprehensive navigation app is invaluable. I recommend using **Savvy Navvy**, which helps you plot your course accurately with real-time tides, currents, and local condition updates. Other useful boating apps include Navionics and NOAA Marine Weather to stay informed about the latest marine forecasts.Ensure you have all safety gear onboard, including life jackets for each person, a fully stocked first-aid kit, fire extinguishers, flares, and a working means of communication. Ultimately, this route from Benicia to Vallejo is not only about reaching your destination but creating a memorable experience on the water with safety as your utmost priority. Enjoy the journey while being mindful of the splendor and hazards the beautiful San Francisco Bay has to offer.