**Pilotage Plan: Detroit, MI to New Baltimore, MI****Starting Point: Detroit, MI**- **Coordinates:** 42.3551° N, 82.9519° W- **Overview:** Departing from Detroit, a bustling city known for its rich maritime heritage, you will navigate through a mix of urban settings and stunning natural resources. The Detroit River serves as the gateway to this serene journey, offering a fascinating blend of history, culture, and picturesque landscapes.**Route Overview**Your journey will take you along the Detroit River, connecting through Lake St. Clair, and ending at New Baltimore. The total distance is approximately 25 nautical miles, making it a day trip suitable for motorboats, sailing yachts, and even paddlecraft with some favorable weather conditions.**Key Sections of the Route:**1. **Detroit River Navigation** - As you set out from Detroit, be mindful of the heavy traffic as it serves as a commercial waterway. Stay alert for large vessels, especially cargo ships and ferries. - **Navigational Aids:** Look for the Ecorse Point Light (46) at mile marker 23, which is a key reference point to confirm your position. - **Point of Interest:** Stop at Belle Isle, an island park with beautiful scenery, picnic areas, and the Belle Isle Aquarium. It’s an excellent place to stretch your legs and explore before continuing your journey.2. **Lake St. Clair Passage** - Once you enter Lake St. Clair, you’ll find yourself surrounded by serene vistas. However, watch for shoal areas—marked on navigational charts—that can be dangerous, especially in low-water conditions. - **Bays for Shelter:** If the weather turns unfavorable, consider heading to the sheltered Lake St. Clair Metropark, providing good facilities and a safe harbor. - **Navigational Aids:** The Lake St. Clair Light (3) will guide you through this stretch. Keep an eye on weather conditions using apps like Savvy Navvy or Navionics to stay updated.3. **Approaching New Baltimore** - As you near New Baltimore, be sure to adhere to local navigational restrictions which may vary based on the time of year, especially during peak boating seasons. Look for defined channels to navigate through, ensuring you respect all signage indicating no-wake zones and private property. - **Point of Interest:** New Baltimore boasts a beautiful waterfront park where you can dock and explore charming local shops and eateries. This is a great pit-stop for both provisioning and relaxation before heading back.**Important Safety Considerations**- Always wear personal floatation devices (PFDs), as this is the law in many states and greatly enhances your safety.- Stay updated on marine weather forecasts through reliable sources or apps mentioned earlier.- Remain vigilant regarding your surroundings, especially as you enter busy traffic areas. Maintaining a safe distance from other vessels, particularly larger ones, is crucial to avoid wakes and turbulence.**Conclusion**This trip from Detroit to New Baltimore is an exquisite blend of urban and natural environments, allowing boaters to enjoy the vibrant cityscape before escaping into the tranquil waters of Lake St. Clair. It caters to a range of boaters—from novice to experienced captains—seeking both adventure and relaxation. With careful planning and attention to safety, this journey promises memorable experiences and sights along the way.