**Pilotage Plan: Daytona Beach, FL to St Augustine, FL****Overview:** This scenic waterway journey from Daytona Beach to St Augustine offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and opportunities for safe shelter along the way. Perfect for recreational boaters seeking leisurely cruising while remaining vigilant about safety considerations, this plan will guide you through notable points, navigational aids, and hidden gems.---**Section 1: Departure from Daytona Beach** Your adventure begins at the bustling waters of Daytona Beach (LAT: 29.1996, LONG: -81.0063). Notably, this area is frequented by boaters, so be mindful of traffic and wake zones. As you leave, keep an eye on the local landmarks like the Daytona Beach Pier, which marks your path out to the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).**Safety Note:** As you exit, monitor the VHF channel for updates on any local activities, particularly if there are regattas or fishing tournaments that can affect boat traffic.---**Section 2: Cruising the Intracoastal Waterway** Once you’re on the ICW, the true beauty of this journey unfolds. The ICW provides a sheltered route stretching through some captivating landscapes. Look out along the way for the lush salt marshes and peaceful shorelines of Canova Beach and Ponce Inlet. **Navigational Aids:** Stay tuned to Channel 16 for maritime communication and lookout for markers indicating safe passage. The Ponce de Leon Inlet offers an easy navigational entry, but make sure to heed depth charts as shoaling can occur.**Points of Interest:**- **Ponce de Leon Lighthouse:** A stop here is perfect for history buffs and offers stunning views from the top. It also provides excellent shelter if weather conditions shift unexpectedly.- **Smyrna Dunes Park:** You'll find opportunities for short hikes and nature walks, with facilities for docking nearby.---**Section 3: Salt Run to St Augustine** As you continue north, you’ll reach Salt Run, an ideal place to pause if weather conditions become unfavorable. This area is sheltered from the wind and offers beautiful surroundings for a picnic or fishing.**Navigational Considerations:** Ensure you stay within the marked channels to avoid shallow depths. The entrance to St Augustine is well marked, but vigilance is key as you approach the older structures and residential areas.**At St Augustine:** Arriving in St Augustine, you will be greeted by the oldest city in the United States. The large harbor is a centerpiece of the area, so be aware of the ferry traffic in and out. **Landmarks to Explore:** - **Castillo de San Marcos National Monument:** An iconic fort dating back to the Spanish colonial period, it’s a must-visit attraction.- **St Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum:** Offering immense maritime history along with stunning views, this site provides engaging tours.**Local Regulations:** Be sure to adhere to local boating rules, including speed limits around congested areas and keeping a safe distance from swimmers and other vessels. Check for local bylaws on fishing/licenses if your journey includes recreational fishing.---**Section 4: Emergency Procedures and Shelter Spots** Throughout your voyage, maintaining regular radio checks and having an emergency kit on board is crucial. If severe weather threatens, the following locations provide safe haven:- **Ponce Inlet:** On your way out, a well-established harbor can offer shelter.- **Salt Run:** As mentioned, a tranquil place to wait out rougher conditions with minimal swell.- **St Augustine Marina:** Offers facilities for emergency dockage and services.**Boating Apps:** To aid in navigation and enhance safety, consider using the following apps:- **Savvy Navvy:** Excellent for route planning, live weather updates, and navigational charts.- **Navionics:** For detailed navigation charts, updated regularly.- **C-MAP:** Offers great weather data and boating community insights.---In summary, this journey from Daytona Beach to St Augustine is not just a boat trip; it’s an engaging experience combining history, nature, and the thrill of the open water. The careful planning and strong focus on safety ensure a rewarding adventure, whether you’re a seasoned skipper or a weekend warrior. Enjoy the beauty and richness of Florida's coastline!