**Pilotage Plan from Rochester, NY to Webster, NY**Embark on a delightful journey from Rochester to Webster, a stretch along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario where you can experience the charm of the region while prioritizing safety and navigational ease. This trip is particularly suitable for recreational boaters and families seeking a day of exploration on the water.### Departure Point: City of Rochester, NY Kick off your adventure from Rochester, a bustling city known for its vibrant waterfront. Before you set sail, ensure that your vessel is well-prepared: check your safety gear, navigation equipment, and weather reports. ### Navigational OverviewYour journey will primarily take you along the shoreline, and while it's a relatively short distance, it's essential to remain vigilant as you traverse these waters. Here are some navigational aids and considerations:1. **Navigational Aids**: Familiarize yourself with the bouys and markers in Lake Ontario, particularly the green and red channel markers that denote safe passages. As you depart Rochester, keep an eye on: - **Rochester Harbor Light**: This iconic structure will guide you safely out of the harbor and into open waters. - **Hazards**: The shoreline can be littered with submerged rocks and debris; keep your distance from unmarked shoals especially near the mouth of the Genesee River.2. **Local Regulations**: Keep in mind the speed limits established within 1,000 feet of the shore and adhere to no-wake zones to protect wildlife and local properties. ### Route and Points of Interest As you navigate towards Webster, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline, dotted with parks and natural attractions:1. **Irondequoit Bay**: A notable stop along the way, this bay offers a sheltered harbor where you can anchor if the weather suddenly changes. Spend some time exploring the scenic bay and the small parks that line its shores. 2. **Sandy Bottom Park**: Accessible from Irondequoit Bay, this park features picnic areas and walking trails. It's a perfect spot to land, stretch your legs, and enjoy a snack while taking in the views of the bay.3. **Pultneyville**: A quaint hamlet you'll want to look for if you wish to take a little detour. Pultneyville is rich with maritime history and is a favorite stop for boaters in the area. You'll find charming shops and seafood eateries, and you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance by the docks.### Safety First While enjoying your trip, always prioritize safety:- **Weather Watch**: Always check weather conditions before and during your trip. Harbor Authority provides up-to-date reports, but also consider apps like Weather Underground or NOAA Weather for real-time updates.- **Safety Gear**: Ensure life vests are accessible for all passengers, and that you have adequate fire extinguishers and first-aid kits onboard.### Arrival Point: Webster, NYAs you approach Webster, get ready to navigate into a lovely harbor that offers additional amenities such as gas docks, maintenance services, and local attractions—including restaurants and shops to round off your day of adventure.### Recommended Boating Apps For a seamless boating experience, I recommend utilizing boating apps that enhance navigation and safety:- **Savvy Navvy**: Utilize this app for route planning, weather updates, and simplified navigation.- **Navionics**: A great choice for detailed charts and local information.- **Windy**: Particularly useful for tracking wind and weather patterns in real-time.In conclusion, your trip from Rochester to Webster is an excellent pathway for boaters looking for both adventure and scenic beauty. By adhering to navigational guidelines and safety practices, you can enjoy the journey and create lasting memories on the water. Happy boating!