**Pilotage Plan: Discovery Bay, CA to Tracy, CA****Route Overview**This trip from Discovery Bay to Tracy promises to be a delightful journey for moderate to experienced boaters. The route spans approximately 12 nautical miles and traverses serene waters, providing a mix of tranquil scenery and practical navigational challenges. This trip is particularly suitable for experienced boaters who have a good grasp of local waters and conditions. **Route Details**1. **Starting Point: Discovery Bay** - As you depart Discovery Bay, pay attention to the local regulations. The area is known for recreational boating, so keep an eye out for other boaters, particularly on weekends.2. **Tranquil Waters of the Delta** - Navigate eastbound on the waterways that lead into the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The sheltered nature of the Delta provides a calm cruising experience, but be aware of shallow areas and floating debris, especially after heavy rains.3. **Landmarks Along the Way** - **Sandmound Slough**: A worthy waypoint that serves as a picturesque natural area abundant with birdlife. It's an excellent spot to anchor for a quiet lunch. - **Franks Tract State Recreation Area**: On the northern side of your route, this state park is accessible via several sloughs and features beaches perfect for leisure activities if you're looking for a break from your journey. 4. **Navigational Aids** - Be sure to keep an eye out for navigational markers in the water. Look for buoys and daymarks indicating channels and shallow waters. The U.S. Coast Guard typically maintains significant markers, which, alongside charts, should be relied upon throughout your trip.5. **Points of Interest** - **Mildred Island**: As you approach Tracy, this island provides an interesting landscape for a quick exploration. Local wildlife, including birds and flora, are plentiful, making it a naturalist's delight. - **Old River**: A serene point where you can take a respite if the weather takes a turn. The river offers good cover and is also a scenic spot to enjoy California's natural beauty.6. **Approaching Tracy** - As you navigate toward Tracy, be mindful of your approach to the local harbor. Tracy is a more developed area, so you'll want to monitor your speed and the draft of your vessel, particularly around busy docks. The Tracy Marina is equipped for transient boats, but checking docking availability in advance is advisable to ensure a smooth docking process.**Weather and Safety Considerations**- Always check your local weather forecasts before embarking. Sudden changes in wind speed or storm conditions can impact your trip.- Keep safety equipment readily accessible, such as life jackets, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher. An operational VHF radio is essential for emergency communication, especially in areas with limited cell service.- Be aware of shallow areas within the Delta, as some regions have depths that can vary drastically. **Sailing Apps**For navigation and planning, utilizing a reliable app can enhance your journey. Consider the following:- **Savvy Navvy**: Offers comprehensive charts, route planning, and real-time weather updates to help you navigate safely.- **Navionics**: Excellent for detailed charting of the area. Overall, this route from Discovery Bay to Tracy allows for a beautiful interplay of nature and leisure. With careful planning and respect for the waterways, boaters can experience a safe and enriching adventure. Enjoy the journey!