Pilotage Plan: Chicago, Illinois, United States to Michigan City, Indiana, United States**Route Overview**Your journey from the vibrant city of Chicago to the serene shores of Michigan City promises to be a delightful experience with the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. This route is ideal for recreational sailors, cruising enthusiasts, and experienced boaters who appreciate coastal navigation with numerous opportunities for exploration, alongside the need for sufficient safety precautions given the potential for sudden weather changes.**Starting Point: Chicago, IL**Starting your journey at the Chicago Harbor, you'll immediately get to enjoy some of the best views of the cityscape. Ensure your vessel is equipped with necessary safety gear, navigational charts, and a reliable communication device, as the first leg of your adventure involves navigating in busy waters.**Points of Interest and Hazards:**1. **Navy Pier**: As you depart from the harbor, consider a stop at Navy Pier, with its entertainment, dining options, and attractions such as the Ferris wheel and the Chicago Children’s Museum. Don’t forget to engage with local boating tours or waterfront markets.2. **Lakefront Wrecks**: While navigating offshore from Chicago, keep an eye out for submerged wrecks. Although not marked, the surrounding historical remains remind sailors of the maritime history in these waters, so treat these areas with caution.3. **Potential Hazards**: Be aware of commercial shipping traffic as you navigate out of Chicago, especially near the Chicago River’s mouth. Maintain a vigilant lookout for large vessels that may not be able to maneuver easily.**Navigational Aids and Considerations:**As you head north, make note of key buoys and markers, most notably the buoys marking the shipping channels. After passing through the busy harbor, the water should clear up, affording smoother sailing. Familiarize yourself with the sound signals; a foghorn may warn of vessels approaching the port area if visibility drops.**Shelter Stops:**1. **Evanston Harbor**: If the weather turns foul or you need a break, the Evanston Harbor provides shelter and amenities. It’s an excellent place to check conditions and enjoy a meal onshore as the skies clear.2. **North Point Marina**: This is another superb option, situated just north of the route. This marina boasts ample guest facilities and an excellent reputation for hospitality.**Transitioning Towards Michigan City Islands:**As you cruise closer to Michigan City, you'll pass by the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park. This stretch of the coastline can be windy, and the conditions might change rapidly; therefore, constant attention to forecasts and weather updates is paramount.**Approaching Michigan City:**Pay attention to the Michigan City Harbor Light as you near the city. This historic lighthouse is not only a great navigational landmark but also embodies the charm of coastal life. Your approach should involve keeping an eye on any local vessel traffic to ensure a safe docking experience.**Important Local Regulations:**Familiarize yourself with any local boating regulations, especially those focusing on speed limits in certain areas and no-wake zones, particularly near harbors and marinas. Check for any advisories about no anchoring zones in sensitive ecological areas, especially as wildlife is protected.**Useful Boating Apps:**In addition to traditional charts and information, a few apps will enhance your experience and support safety measures. Be sure to download savvy navvy for real-time navigation and route planning. Other useful apps include:- Navionics for charting waters and marking waypoints.- Windy or PredictWind for weather conditions.Your route from Chicago to Michigan City is rich with scenic beauty and potential adventures, with ample support for safety. This journey is particularly suited for experienced sailors who appreciate the balance between maritime enjoyment and risk management typical of open water. Just ensure you're prepared, check conditions, and enjoy this refreshing getaway across Lake Michigan's expanse! Safe sailing!