**Pilotage Plan: Chatham, Massachusetts to Provincetown, Massachusetts****Overview and Suitability**This trip from Chatham to Provincetown is a delightful cruise along the scenic Outer Cape, well-suited for experienced boaters looking for a combination of thrilling open water navigation and the charm of coastal towns. While the route offers beautiful views and interesting stops, it’s essential to remain cognizant of the changing weather conditions and navigate through potentially challenging waters. This journey is particularly suitable for sailboats and motorboats, but care should be taken, particularly in choppy seas and shifting tides.**Starting Point: Chatham, Massachusetts**- **Departure**: Begin your journey at Chatham, a picturesque town known for its rich maritime history. Be sure to check local weather conditions before setting out, as they can change rapidly.- **Shelter Options**: Should conditions unexpectedly worsen, Chatham Harbor offers good shelter, particularly during southerly winds. **Route and Navigation Considerations**1. **Initial Departure** - Leave Chatham Harbor heading northeast, passing by the iconic Chatham Lighthouse. Make a note of the close proximity to the shoal areas near the lighthouse, which can present navigation challenges. - Follow the markers carefully as you exit the harbor, remaining vigilant of any fishing vessels that may be active in this area.2. **Navigating the Chatham Bar** - As you move through the Chatham Bar, pay special attention to the tidal currents and shifting sandbars, particularly during an outgoing tide. Consult local tide charts (available on apps like Savvy Navvy) as well as current conditions.3. **Nauset Beach and Orleans** - As you approach Nauset Beach, known for its stunning vistas, consider this area for a short stop. The beach is generally busy, but its beauty and the ocean swells make it a popular spot for surfcasting or beachcombing. - Again, keep an eye out for swimming and surf areas, ensuring to navigate away from these zones.4. **Cape Cod Bay Entry** - Entering Cape Cod Bay, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the expansive views. You may want to consult your charts for the location of whale watching spots, particularly during migration seasons when Gray Whales and Humpback Whales can be seen.5. **Wellfleet and the National Seashore** - Approximately halfway through your journey, you can divert slightly to Wellfleet, famous for its oysters and art galleries. It offers safe harbors and a perfect backdrop for a lunch stop, allowing you to explore local eateries. - The Wellfleet Harbor area is safe, but caution against the tidal ranges is crucial, especially for smaller vessels.6. **Final Leg to Provincetown** - The final approach to Provincetown involves navigating the busy waters close to the harbor, with a frenzy of boat traffic during the summer months. Stay alert for commercial vessels as well, and adhere to all navigation aids. The approach to the Provincetown Harbor light is a beautiful sight. - Keep a watchful eye out for the designated mooring buoys; this is an area with strict regulations. **Arrival at Provincetown**- **Docking and Attractions**: Upon arriving in Provincetown, there are numerous marinas to dock your vessel, including the West End Boat Landing and MacMillan Wharf. Once here, explore the artistic spirit of Provincetown, including galleries, the iconic Pilgrim Monument, and various shops or eateries along Commercial Street. **Safety and Environmental Considerations**- Before departure, check your boat’s safety equipment: life jackets, first-aid kits, flares, and fire extinguishers should be easily accessible.- Remain aware of local environmental protocols, especially in protected areas around the Cape Cod National Seashore, where certain activities may be restricted to protect local wildlife.- Use navigation systems effectively; rely on both visual aids and digital apps such as Savvy Navvy, which provides real-time weather updates, tidal information, and detailed maps.By planning your journey carefully, prioritizing safety, and taking in the quickly evolving landscape along the Cape, this trip will be a memorable adventure. Safe travels!