Charleston to Isle of Palms by boat

Pilotage Plan from Charleston, South Carolina to Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Route Overview Embarking on a journey from Charleston to the Isle of Palms offers a delightful escape with opportunities for scenic views and safe harbors. This relatively short trip, around 12 nautical miles (about 14 miles by road), is well-suited for intermediate boaters looking to enjoy day trips or weekend getaways. Coastal waters are usually calm, but caution should always be your ally.

Starting Point: Charleston, South Carolina

Location: (Long: -79.9366, Lat: 32.7652) Charleston is rich in maritime history and boasts a busy port. Before you set sail, ensure your vessel has all safety equipment onboard: life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a working VHF radio. Take a moment to enjoy the city’s iconic waterfront and historic architecture.

Notable Points of Interest

• Fort Sumter National Monument: A famous landmark just outside the Charleston Harbor. Its history dates back to the Civil War, and it’s accessible via boat or ferry.
• Battery Park: A scenic park that overlooks the harbor, offering photo-op spots with historic mansions as a backdrop.

Route Description

1.

Exit the harbor through the main shipping channel, paying close attention to the navigational aids marking the deep water route. These aids (such as buoys and markers) are critical to avoid shallows and obstructions.

2. Navigational Aids - Buoy 1 (Green): Marks the channel entrance; keep it to your port side. - Folly Island Range Lights: These fixed lights will guide your passage, keeping you aligned with the safest route out of the harbor.

3. Course towards Isle of Palms Once you’ve cleared the harbor, set a course northeast following the marked channel toward the Isle of Palms. Look for the buoys and be watchful of fishing vessels. The waters can see a mix of traffic, so stay vigilant.

4. Shelter Stops Along the Way - Morris Island Inlet: Should the weather suddenly turn, this lagoon-like body along the route provides a good spot for shelter. - Dewees Island: A small, private barrier island with potential for brief land excursions.

5. Isle of Palms As you approach Isle of Palms, be prepared for a mix of residential and beach traffic. The entrance is marked with buoys, and the island offers public beaches and local eateries.

Important Navigational Considerations

• Local Regulations: Keep in mind that certain areas are designated for no-wake zones, especially around marinas and beach access points. The local marine authority has put these in place to ensure safety and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
• Weather Monitoring: Always check the weather forecast. The coastal South Carolina weather can change quickly. Factors like wind speed and precipitation can significantly affect navigation.

Return Trip and Overall Safety

For the return trip, you may wish to reverse your route or explore along the coast for a different perspective. Ensure your GPS and navigation systems are updated and functioning effectively.

Recommended Apps

To aid your journey, consider downloading boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which will give you real-time weather updates, chart updates, and waypoints along your route, ensuring you stay informed every step of the way.

Conclusion This route from Charleston to Isle of Palms is perfect for boaters eager to discover delightful scenery, rich history, and relaxation along the South Carolina coast. With proper preparations, safety measures in place, and attention to local regulations, you're sure to have an enjoyable and memorable cruising experience. Happy boating!