### Pilotage Plan: Cervia, RA, Italy to Ravenna, RA, Italy#### OverviewThis beautiful journey, spanning approximately 11 nautical miles, takes you across the picturesque waters of the Adriatic Sea, from Cervia to Ravenna. This route is perfect for intermediate boaters due to its manageable distance and access to sheltered bays and fascinating points of interest along the way. The charming coastal scenery and the rich maritime heritage make it an appealing trip.#### Route Sections1. **Departure from Cervia** - **Coordinates:** 12.3575, 44.2667 - **Starting Point:** Cervia is well known for its charming old town and beautiful sandy beaches. Before setting off, enjoy a quick stroll through the town, perhaps grab a warm coffee from a local café. - **Hazards & Navigation:** Always stay aware of local fishing activities, especially near the harbor entrance where commercial vessels may be maneuvering.2. **Navigating the Cervia Canal** - After departing Cervia, you will enter the Cervia Canal. The canal is generally well-marked, but pay close attention to your depth sounder, as it can be shallow in some areas, particularly near the banks. - **Points of Interest:** There's a lovely spot early on at the *Cervia Salt Pans*, where you can observe traditional salt harvesting methods. This is also a good place to drop anchor for a short while if you wish to explore.3. **Venturing towards Marina di Ravenna** - As you exit the canal and approach the open sea, keep an eye out for *Lido di Savio* to your north. This area often features recreational boating, so be mindful of other vessels. - **Safe Haven:** If the weather takes a turn for the worse, the *Marina di Ravenna* provides excellent shelter with facilities to dock and ride out any adverse weather. 4. **Navigational Aids and Regulations** - Be on the lookout for the *Ravenna Lighthouse* (Faro di Ravenna), providing you with a visual guide as you approach the coastal area of Ravenna. - Keep in mind that fishing zones are prevalent along this route; ensure that you're adhering to local regulations regarding fishing limits and protected areas.5. **Final Approach to Ravenna** - As you near Ravenna, the guide markers at the entrance of the port are crucial. This port is a bustling area with commercial traffic, so approach with caution. - Once in Ravenna, you’ll find rich historical roots, including the famed Byzantine mosaics and ancient churches. Consider docking for a few hours to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites, or enjoy a meal of fresh seafood at one of the harbor-side restaurants.#### Safety Considerations- Always check the weather forecast before departure and remain vigilant about any changing conditions. The Adriatic can change unexpectedly, with winds and currents impacting your passage.- Equip your vessel with safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and communication devices. A good boating app can be an invaluable resource, and I recommend downloading **savvy navvy** for real-time navigation and weather updates along your route.- Ensure that your boat is stocked with first aid supplies and that you have a detailed chart of the area. #### ConclusionThis pilotage plan takes you on a delightful journey from Cervia to Ravenna, highlighting notable attractions while prioritizing safety. The combination of coastal charm, historical insights, and the opportunity for sheltered stops along the way makes this route not only a smart choice for navigation but also an enjoyable adventure for the boater. Prepare well, stay safe on the water, and enjoy the beauty that Italy's Adriatic coast has to offer!