### Pilotage Plan: Burlington, Ontario, Canada to Grimsby, ON, US#### OverviewThis pilotage plan outlines a safe and enjoyable journey for boaters traveling from Burlington, Ontario to Grimsby, ON, US. The route stretches across approximately 20 nautical miles along the northern shore of Lake Ontario, perfect for recreational boaters looking to experience breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and delightful ports of call.#### Route Description and Navigation1. **Departure from Burlington, Ontario** - **Starting Point Coordinates:** 43.3108, -79.8110833333 - As you depart from Burlington’s downtown marina or park, keep an eye on the Burlington Skyway Bridge ahead. This scenic icon can serve as a great point of reference.2. **Navigating Towards Grimsby** - **Heading West:** Your course will take you westward along the northern shoreline, where you’ll encounter beautiful waterfront parks and a series of residential areas. - **Marina Options for Shelter:** If weather conditions deteriorate, you may consider mooring at Hamilton Harbour, which has ample dock space and amenities. The harbour provides good shelter from strong winds primarily from the east.3. **Key Points of Interest Along the Route** - **Cedar Springs on the Niagara Escarpment:** This geological feature offers stunning viewpoints but requires a short hike on land. It’s not too far from the coast and provides a great spot for a lunch break. - **Grimsby Beach:** An idyllic spot known for its charming atmosphere, perfect for a brief stopover. Enjoy a stretch along the sandy boardwalk and take in the local snack shops.4. **Entering Grimsby** - **Grimsby Harbour Coordinates:** As you approach Grimsby, keep a lookout for the harbour entrance. It’s marked well on nautical charts and by local navigational aids. - Grimsby is home to wineries and vineyards, providing an excellent opportunity for some local wine tasting after your journey, should time allow.#### Navigational Aids and Safety Considerations- **Navigational Aids:** - Pay close attention to the navigational buoys marking the waterway. These will guide you safely through deeper waters and typically indicate shoals or shallow areas. - Be particularly mindful of the ‘Lake Ontario Sailing Buoy System,’ which includes lighted navigational buoys along the route. These should be visible when you are within proximity. - **Weather Awareness:** - Before your trip, check the marine weather forecasts, especially considering potential storms typical for the region. Regularly monitor conditions throughout your outing. The local marine radio can be invaluable for real-time updates.- **Regulations:** - Ensure to follow local boating regulations, including speed limits and no-wake zones, especially near harbors and residential areas. These are not only for safety but help preserve the tranquility of the beautiful surroundings.- **Essential Safety Equipment:** - It’s imperative to have all necessary safety gear onboard, including life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a functional VHF radio for emergencies. #### Boating AppsWhen planning your journey, consider utilizing marine navigation apps for smooth sailing. I recommend:- **Savvy Navvy** – excellent for its user-friendly interface and great route planning features.- **Navionics** – provides comprehensive maps and allows you to track your journey in real-time.- **Windy** – useful for checking wind conditions before heading out.### ConclusionThis route from Burlington to Grimsby presents a well-balanced mix of safety, scenic beauty, and enjoyable attractions. It is particularly suitable for recreational boaters looking for a day trip filled with charming stops and stunning landscapes. By following this pilotage plan and keeping safety as your top priority, you’re sure to have an enriching experience on Lake Ontario. Happy cruising!