**Pilotage Plan: Burlington, Ontario to Stoney Creek, Ontario****Overview:**This route from Burlington to Stoney Creek on Lake Ontario is a delightful journey ideal for recreational boaters and those seeking a gentle, scenic ride. With its smooth waters and relatively short distance of approximately 10 nautical miles, it’s perfect for powerboats and sailboats alike. However, as always, safety is paramount, and this plan highlights key navigational aids, potential hazards, and points of interest along the way.**Departure: Burlington, Ontario**Begin your trip at the scenic Burlington Waterfront, offering a beautiful view of the Toronto skyline on a clear day. The marina here is often bustling with activity, providing amenities such as fuel and supplies.**Key Points Along the Route:**1. **Navigating the Burlington Harbor:** As you depart, keep a close watch for the Burlington Canal. The canal can be quite busy—be mindful of any vessels moving through the locks. Look out for the vibrant red and green range markers guiding you through the harbor.2. **Oakville Harbor:** A short distance into your trip, you will pass near Oakville Harbor, a great place to take shelter if weather conditions turn unfavorable. This marina offers facilities, and you can also enjoy the beautiful waterfront parks nearby if you take a break.3. **Cedar Springs:** Continuing eastward, keep an eye out for Cedar Springs, a natural area which provides a picturesque backdrop. Although not a designated bay for shelter, heading near here offers some visual enjoyment of local flora.4. **Points of Interest:** - **Brant Street Pier**: A welcoming spot along the route offering spectacular views of the lake. The pier is a great place to dock temporarily for a stroll or picnicking with family, particularly during warmer months. - **Royal Botanical Gardens**: Though not directly on the water, it's just a short distance from your route and is worth the visit for those interested in nature. 5. **Entry to Stoney Creek:** As you approach Stoney Creek, reduce speed and be cautious of any local fishing boats that frequent the area. The waterfront here is less developed, providing a peaceful end to your trip. Pay attention to any local markings as you navigate the channel leading to the marina.**Navigational Considerations:**- **Navigational Aids**: Follow the well-marked buoys and channel markers as they guide your way across open water. Pay close attention to the red and green lateral buoys, which denote the port and starboard sides of the navigable channel.- **Weather Monitoring**: Keep an eye on the changing weather conditions, as Lake Ontario can be unpredictable. Regularly check in with local marine forecasts, and consider downloading boating apps such as *savvy navvy*, which will keep you updated on conditions and provide navigational assistance.**Hazards and Regulations:**- **Traffic Awareness**: The waters can be busy with pleasure craft and fishing boats, especially on weekends, so ensuring you're obeying safe boating practices is essential. Maintain a proper lookout, especially in narrow channels.- **Environmental Policies**: Be aware of local regulations regarding waste disposal and fishing licenses if you’re planning to fish. Also, respect the no-wake zones particularly near marinas and beaches.**Conclusion:**The journey from Burlington to Stoney Creek on Lake Ontario is not just a practical trip—it's an opportunity to revel in nature's beauty while practicing safe navigation. With its blend of scenic views and access to necessary amenities and shelter spots, this route is perfectly suited for both novice and experienced boaters. Ensuring safety is the cornerstone of the adventure will transform this navigation into an enjoyable and memorable experience on the water. Enjoy your trip and remember: the journey is just as important as the destination!