**Pilotage Plan: From Bourne, Massachusetts to Warwick, Rhode Island****Overview**This journey from Bourne to Warwick offers a delightful mix of serene waterways, beautiful coastal scenery, and potential exploration opportunities. It's perfect for both experienced and novice boaters, thanks to well-marked channels and several sheltered bays for refuge in adverse weather. **1. Starting Point: Bourne, Massachusetts**As you embark from Bourne, you’ll want to check the tide schedules and weather conditions, as this will greatly affect your passage. The Cape Cod Canal is an excellent starting point, allowing for efficient travel while staying protected from the open ocean waves. Watch for the canal’s navigation aids, including buoys that guide you safely through the waterway.**2. Route Overview:**From Bourne, you will traverse through the Cape Cod Canal, passing the iconic Sagamore Bridge. Maintain course along Buzzards Bay, which leads to a stunning stretch before you approach Narragansett Bay’s entrance. **3. Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest:**- **Cape Cod Canal:** Known for its swift tidal currents; be mindful of the ebb and flow when planning your transit.- **Sagamore Bridge:** A perfect photo opportunity, marking your passage between Cape Cod and the mainland. As you round the bend into Buzzards Bay, consider a stop at **Onset Village**, where you can tie up and enjoy local shops and eateries, or look into exploring the **Onset Beach** for some relaxation. Continuing southward, you might want to anchor at **Wood Hole**. This charming town offers excellent dining options and marine galleries. It's also known for its rich maritime history and science-related activities, making it a fine spot for interests both nautical and educational.**4. Bays for Shelter:**- **Onset Bay:** In case the weather deteriorates, Onset Bay is a safe harbor with ample mooring options.- **Little Harbor:** As you approach the south side of Cape Cod, Little Harbor provides another excellent retreat.**5. Navigational Aids:**Pay special attention to the following navigational aids on your route: - Near the entrance to the Cape Cod Canal, you will encounter numbered day and night markers; these are crucial for maintaining your navigational bearings.- The **Nauset Light** and **Nantucket Sound** markers will be vital as you approach the open waters.- As you enter Narragansett Bay, be vigilant of navigational buoys and marks guiding to proper channels, especially considering the shipping traffic in the bay.**6. Local Restrictions and Regulations:**Ensure that you are aware of local boating regulations, including speed limits in no-wake zones, which can be especially pertinent near harbors and residential areas. Abide by any temporary closures or seasonal restrictions, particularly around protected marine environments such as the nesting sites for local wildlife.**7. Final Approach to Warwick:**When nearing Warwick, you’ll navigate through the comfortable waters of Narragansett Bay. Keep an eye out for the numerous ferry routes, and make your approach careful, considering the local vessel traffic. Be mindful of the tides, as the current can impact your approach, especially as you seek docking moorings at local marinas like **Cove Haven Marina** or **Warwick Cove**.**Conclusion:**This route is particularly well-suited for recreational boaters seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility. The initially sheltered environment of the Cape Cod Canal and Buzzards Bay, combined with possible stops at rustic coastal towns, offers both safety and enjoyment. As always, equip your trip with essential apps like Savvy Navvy, alongside updated weather and navigational resources, to ensure a safe passage. Prepare for a memorable boating experience as you embrace the picturesque coastlines and vibrant marine communities.