**Pilotage Plan from Chattanooga, TN to Maryville, TN****Overview:**Embarking on a journey from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Maryville, Tennessee presents a captivating blend of scenic beauty, intriguing attractions, and the thrill of navigating the Tennessee River and its tributaries. This route is particularly suitable for recreational boaters and experienced cruisers alike, as it combines a diverse set of navigational challenges with opportunities for rest and exploration.---**Starting Point: Chattanooga, TN** Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River, is the perfect launch point for your adventure. Before you set off, stock up on supplies and make sure your vessel is in seaworthy condition. The Tennessee River is well-marked, so it will be important to familiarize yourself with local charts and navigational aids available through your preferred boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which provides excellent real-time charts and features.**Route Overview:**The journey will be approximately 90 miles, predominantly along the Tennessee River, making it easy for boaters to follow the natural flow of the waterway. ---**Section 1: Chattanooga to Hixson** Start your trip departing the scenic downtown area of Chattanooga. Notable sights include the iconic Walnut Street Bridge and the vibrant waterfront that’s home to various attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium. As you head north, keep an eye out for the Hixson area. Although not much of a stopover, there are several sheltered inlets should the weather take a turn. As you progress, pay attention to buoy markers and the occasional fishing boat activity in this region, a reminder of the river's vitality.**Points of Interest:**- Tennessee Aquarium (Start)- RSW Crossroads Park (Rest stop)---**Section 2: Hixson to Soddy-Daisy** As you move toward Soddy-Daisy, approximately 20 miles away, the river widens and offers several beautiful views. This stretch is ideal for spotting wildlife; keep your binoculars ready to catch sight of herons and bald eagles. There are numerous small coves along this stretch offering spontaneous stops if you choose to fish or explore.**Hazards:**Watch out for submerged logs and debris, especially after heavy rains, as this can pose a risk to navigation. **Shelter Options:**- Soddy Lake offers a calm area to anchor, should the conditions worsen.---**Section 3: Soddy-Daisy to Sale Creek** This next leg leads you back towards the Tennessee River's western shoreline. After passing through Sale Creek, there are several well-marked navigation aids, ensuring your path stays clear. As you cruise, pay attention to the topography. The cliffs and heavy tree cover are stunning, giving you moments to truly appreciate the natural landscape.**Points of Interest:**- Sale Creek Park (Picnic area)**Safety Note:**Avoid some of the narrower inlets during inclement weather as they can become treacherous without proper sight of the navigation markers.---**Section 4: Sale Creek to Loudon** Continuing another 15 miles, this section will take you toward Loudon. Depending on the time of year, the river can be busy with water skiers and jet skiers, so maintain a safe distance. It’s also wise to maintain a vigilant watch for local fishing boats. **Shelter Options:**- Watts Bar Lake offers expansive areas to find a safe harbor with good options for rest and food.---**Final Section: Loudon to Maryville** As you enter the final leg of your journey, head toward Maryville. This section goes through the calming waters of the Tennessee River as it approaches the slower-moving Little Tennessee River. It's a serene experience that offers a break from the earlier busyness of the river. **Navigational Aids:**Throughout this leg, buoys and markers guide the way—pay particular attention to the buoy line when navigating channels. Be mindful of the edges and shallow spots that become more prominent as the water flow decreases.**End Point: Maryville, TN** Upon reaching Maryville, you’ll find plenty of amenities for fuel and provisions. The area also boasts lovely parks and trails for exploration once you dock. The city offers a quaint blend of urban comforts and natural beauty, making it an ideal end-point for your cruising adventure.**Safety and Regulations:**Ensure you’re equipped with all necessary safety gear including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. Familiarize yourself with local regulations such as wake zones, no-wake hours, and areas where anchorage may be restricted. This route between Chattanooga and Maryville is a treasure trove of relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to escape the hullabaloo and embrace the tranquility of the Tennessee River. Whether you're an experienced cruiser or a weekend warrior, you’ll find this journey both fulfilling and scenic, making it a fantastic choice for any boater. Happy cruising!