**Pilotage Plan: Corlette to Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia**### OverviewThis scenic route from Corlette to Nelson Bay is perfect for leisure boaters seeking both protected waters and beautiful coastal scenery. With a distance of approximately 7.5 nautical miles, your journey will take you through picturesque bays, ensure safe passages, and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration along the way. It’s an ideal trip for recreational boaters who want to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings while adhering to safety protocols.### Departure: CorletteCorlette is a quaint coastal locality on the shores of Port Stephens. Before departing, it’s essential to check the local weather conditions and tides. The waters here can be a bit choppy, especially in windy conditions, so make sure you're fully prepared.**Points of Interest**- **Corlette Beach**: A tranquil spot where you can take a few moments to soak in the scenery before setting sail.- **Dutchmans Beach**: Situated just south of your departure point, this beach is another lovely stop if you have the time.### Route DescriptionAs you set off from Corlette, head east towards the entrance of the bay, keeping the shoreline in sight. The channel is well-marked, but you should always be vigilant of local vessels. This stretch is fairly straightforward, just watch for any fishing boats as you get into deeper waters.### Navigational Aids and Hazards- **Navigational Aids**: Follow the leading lights at the entrance to Port Stephens, bearing approximately 090 degrees towards the main shipping channels. Pay attention to the green and red channel markers (buoys) that guide vessels in and out of the bay.- **Hazards**: Be cautious of reefs and shallow areas around the bay. Keeping to the marked channel is crucial, as areas off the beaten path can drop off steeply. Watch out for tidal changes, especially if you’re heading out during the hour of low tide.### Shelter Points- **Little Beach**: Just a short detour to the east, this bay offers a great spot to anchor in case of sudden weather changes. The sandy bottom provides good holding for your anchor.- **Shoal Bay**: Nestled to the east of your route, this more expansive bay features calm waters and various facilities. It’s an excellent stop for lunch or to ride out any unexpected rough weather.### Arrival: Nelson BayAs you enter Nelson Bay, the bustling marina greets you with waterfront eateries, shops, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect end to your journey with plenty to explore.**Points of Interest in Nelson Bay**- **D'ALBORA Marinas**: A great spot for dining and refreshments once you've docked.- **Tomaree Head**: A short hike from the marina offers breathtaking views of Port Stephens and is well worth the effort.### Safety and Regulations- **Speed Restrictions**: In Port Stephens, observe local regulations regarding speed limits, especially in busy areas and around navigational markers.- **Marine Parks**: Be aware of the marine parks within Port Stephens. Certain areas protect local wildlife and may have restrictions on activities such as fishing or anchoring.### Recommended Boating AppsTo enhance your safety and navigation experience on this route, consider utilizing boating apps. I recommend:- **Savvy Navvy**: A great navigation tool that provides real-time weather, tide information, and route planning.- **Navionics**: Great for detailed charts and sonar maps, helping you avoid shallow waters.- **Windy**: An excellent resource for checking wind forecasts and weather patterns before your trip.### ConclusionThis journey from Corlette to Nelson Bay combines beautiful scenery with navigational simplicity, making it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters. By keeping safety at the forefront and paying attention to navigational aids, you will enjoy a delightful maritime experience with plenty of opportunities for rest and exploration. So, set your course, embrace the coast, and relish every moment on the water!