Cleveland to Kelleys Island by boat

Pilotage Plan: Cleveland, Ohio to Kelleys Island, Ohio

Overview

This route from Cleveland to Kelleys Island offers a delightful journey across Lake Erie, perfect for intermediate to experienced boaters. The trip spans approximately 30 nautical miles and presents an exceptional mix of tranquil bays, charming islands, and noteworthy landmarks. It’s an ideal cruise for those looking to embrace both the beauty of the Great Lakes and the tranquility of nature. Safety is paramount, especially considering the potential for changing weather conditions and busy water channels.

Departure Point: Cleveland, Ohio

Starting your journey in Cleveland provides many conveniences, including access to major marinas such as the Cleveland Yacht Club and the newly renovated Edgewater Marina. Ensure your vessel is fully equipped with lifesaving gear, navigation tools, and sufficient fuel. Before casting off, familiarize yourself with local regulations governing the waterways.

Navigational Route

• Initial Leg (Cleveland to Fairport Harbor):
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: Approximately 10 nautical miles. -

: Set a course eastward from Cleveland, keeping a watchful eye on the navigational aids. Be particularly attentive to the Cleveland Harbor Light and Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light, positioned prominently along the way. This section of the trip can sometimes be busy with ferry traffic, so maintain a vigilant lookout.

• Shelter Bay: Fairport Harbor:
- If weather conditions deteriorate, Fairport Harbor is an excellent place to stop. The harbor is well-protected and offers various amenities, including a marina if you need overnight shelter. The nearby Fairport Harbor Maritime Museum is worth a visit, offering insights into the region’s rich maritime history.

• Second Leg (Fairport Harbor to Kelleys Island):
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: Approximately 20 nautical miles. -

: Continuing on a northeast course, set your sights towards Kelleys Island. This stretch of water can be spacious, allowing for traction to enjoy the ride. However, stay within the marked channel to avoid shallow areas and submerged rocks prevalent along the eastern route.

Points of Interest

As you make your way to Kelleys Island, consider a detour to the beautiful Pelee Island, famous for its vineyards and eco-tourism. If time permits, many boaters appreciate the serenity of the nearby islands, which provide possibilities for fishing, swimming, or simply anchoring to enjoy a picnic.

• Navigational Aids:

- Pay attention to buoy placements in mitigating currents and channel markers on your course. The Kelleys Island Light at the entrance to the harbor is a significant mark you should keep within view as you approach your destination.

Arrival Point: Kelleys Island, Ohio

Upon arriving at Kelleys Island, directly navigate to the East Harbor Marina or the Kelleys Island State Park Marina, where you can dock comfortably. Kelleys Island boasts unique attractions, including the Glacial Grooves State Memorial—an impressive geological formation. The parks offer trails for hiking and great locations for picnics, making an excellent stop for a fun afternoon.

Safety Considerations

Throughout your journey, always check your marine radio for updates on weather conditions and advisories. Adequately monitor local weather forecasts, as conditions on Lake Erie can change rapidly. It’s advisable to have a reliable navigation app like Savvy Navvy to provide more than just charts—for real-time weather updates and AIS (Automatic Identification System) tracking to see nearby vessels.

Additionally, ensure all crew members are familiar with the vessel’s safety equipment and procedures. Maintain life jackets for everyone onboard, and always have a first aid kit accessible.

Conclusion

This route from Cleveland to Kelleys Island combines scenic beauty with strategic stops for safety and exploration. As you glide across the waters of Lake Erie, you’ll experience the charm of the Great Lakes, making memories that will last a lifetime. Remember, adventure is around every corner, but safe boating is the priority that makes all of this possible.