**Pilotage Plan: Conneaut, Ohio to Erie, Pennsylvania****Route Overview:**This trip from Conneaut, Ohio, to Erie, Pennsylvania, covers approximately 26 nautical miles across the picturesque waters of Lake Erie. The journey is ideally suitable for recreational boaters and those seeking a serene day on the water. With scenic views, potential for wildlife sightings, and a rich maritime history, this route promises both excitement and safety as the primary focus.**Departure Point: Conneaut, Ohio**As you set sail from Conneaut, it’s essential to keep an eye on the local weather. The harbor here provides excellent facilities with transient slips available for a brief stay if needed. Before leaving, check in at the Conneaut Harbor for any local advisories or conditions.**Shelter Points Along the Route:**1. **Conneaut Harbor** - Your starting point, which offers shelter if conditions worsen unexpectedly.2. **Ashtabula Harbor** - Approximately 12 nautical miles from Conneaut, this harbor offers a safe haven with good facilities. The channel is well-marked, and the harbor entrance is generally safe, but it’s advised to approach with caution due to potential shoaling.3. **Port of Erie (Erie, PA)** - Your destination also provides a range of services and is a good final stop for refueling and resting.**Points of Interest and Activities:**- **Ashtabula River Lighthouse** - You’ll pass near this historic lighthouse dating back to the 19th century. It’s a great spot to take pictures and enjoy an unobstructed view of Lake Erie.- **Presque Isle State Park** - Upon arrival in Erie, the park features beautiful beaches, nature trails, and bird watching. A must-visit for any guest on board who enjoys the outdoors.**Route Navigation:**- **Navigational Aids**: Watch for the Conneaut Light (FL W 10s) approximately 1.25 nautical miles from the harbor; this will help you establish a good initial heading. As you progress towards Ashtabula, the Ashtabula Lighthouse (FL G 4s) is another important mark. These lights are critical for daytime and nighttime navigation.- **Local Regulations**: Ensure adherence to any local fishing regulations and navigational guidelines. Be aware of the boating speed limits in designated areas, especially near marinas and public beaches. - **Hazards**: The waters can be affected by local weather conditions, with sudden storms possible during spring and summer. Stay updated with a reliable weather app or marine radio. As you approach the Erie area, the waters can become busy with other boaters, particularly during weekends, so maintain a vigilant watch.**Safety and Preparation:**Prioritize safety equipment on your vessel, including life jackets for all passengers, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits. It's wise to prepare for varying weather conditions by equipping your boat with a canopy or bimini for shade, as well as rain gear just in case.In preparation for your voyage, consulting apps like Savvy Navvy, which provide excellent navigation data, charts, weather updates, and more, can significantly enhance your trip planning. Other useful apps include NOAA Weather Radar, MarineTraffic for real-time vessel tracking, and Windy for better wind predictions.Enjoy this beautiful stretch of Lake Erie, taking in its quaint harbors, charming lighthouses, and lively wildlife, all while ensuring that safety remains your top priority throughout this exceptional boating experience!