**Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from Cocoa Beach, FL to Port Orange, FL****Departure: Cocoa Beach, Florida**Starting your journey from Cocoa Beach offers a fantastic mix of bustling beach life and serene waterways. Cocoa Beach is renowned for its long sandy shores and is a gateway to the Indian River Lagoon, a remarkable estuary known for its biodiversity, making it perfect for both experienced boaters and those new to the sea.**Notable Points of Interest**: 1. **Cocoa Beach Pier**: A lively spot with restaurants and fishing opportunities—great for a quick stop.2. **Canaveral National Seashore**: An untouched stretch of beach offering stunning views and natural beauty, perfect for a scenic pause.---**Route Overview** Your route will primarily take you through the scenic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), giving you a good balance of open water and sheltered cruising. The total distance is around 25 nautical miles, which makes it an ideal day trip, especially for pleasure boats.**Leg 1: Cocoa Beach to Ponce de Leon Inlet** This portion involves navigating the Indian River Lagoon, where you’ll find the waterway marked by navigation aids. Key aids to note include:- **Buoy #1**: Marks the entrance of the lagoon.- **Canaveral Light**: A significant landmark for orientation. Resting near the north entrance of Ponce de Leon Inlet, this can serve as both a guiding light and a beautiful sight to behold.**Shelter Options**: If weather turns rough while heading towards Ponce de Leon Inlet, having the option to veer into the lagoon offers a buffer from open waters.---**Leg 2: Ponce de Leon Inlet to Port Orange** Once past Ponce de Leon Inlet, your cruise continues southward along the ICW, which offers continuous navigational guidance via channel markers and buoys. It becomes vital to keep a close eye on:- **ICW Marker 42**: Indicates an important crossing.- **ICW Marker 49**: As you near Port Orange, this marker helps you navigate through the final approach.**Points of Interest**: 1. **Ponce de Leon Lighthouse**: A must-see for its historical significance and great views.2. **Disappearing Island**: A popular local spot for beachgoers and boaters alike to relax and enjoy the sun.---**Navigational Considerations** - **Tides and Currents**: Be mindful of tidal changes in the ICW, especially around Ponce de Leon Inlet; quick current shifts can occur, and water depth varies significantly.- **Wildlife Conservation Areas**: Certain regions, especially near the National Seashore, have restricted areas. Always check local regulations regarding speed restrictions and wildlife interactions.**Safety Reminders**: Carry a VHF radio for communication, and uphold local maritime safety rules. Life jackets should be accessible to all passengers, and have a first-aid kit onboard. Weather can change quickly; always monitor local forecasts from reliable sources. Consider downloading navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy, which can assist with route planning, tidal information, and potential hazards.**Conclusion** This trip is particularly suitable for intermediate boaters looking to explore Florida's coastal beauty while maintaining a focus on safety. The combination of scenic views, vibrant wildlife, and manageable cruising distance makes this an ideal getaway that balances adventure and relaxation. By navigating carefully and utilizing available resources wisely, you’ll create lasting memories on the serene waters of Florida's East Coast. Enjoy your voyage!