### Pilotage Plan: Ephraim, Wisconsin to Sister Bay, Wisconsin#### OverviewEmbarking on a journey from Ephraim to Sister Bay offers a delightful experience for boaters looking to explore the beauty of Door County, Wisconsin. This route is particularly suitable for leisure boaters and those who enjoy scenic cruising without rushing, allowing them to appreciate the area's natural wonders and quaint attractions along the way.#### Starting Point: Ephraim, WisconsinLocated at coordinates (-87.17685, 45.15583), Ephraim is an idyllic harbor town nestled along the shores of the Bay of Green Bay. As you prepare to set sail, ensure your vessel is ready for the conditions, and check local weather forecasts, as conditions can change quickly.#### Key Hazards and Navigation ConsiderationsBefore departing, it’s important to know that there are a few navigational hazards in this area, notably the shifting sands and shallows near the entrance of Ephraim harbor. Always keep a lookout for buoys and depth markers. The local channel should be properly followed to prevent running aground.#### Route DescriptionThe distance between Ephraim and Sister Bay is roughly 7 nautical miles by water. Here’s a section-by-section breakdown:1. **Departure from Ephraim** - Head out of Ephraim Harbor, staying close to the marked channel. Look for the prominent Ephraim Lighthouse, which is a great reference point as you leave. - Check your chartplotter or navigational app to ensure you're well within the navigable waters as you exit. 2. **Open Water Navigation** - Once you are in open water, enjoy the expansive view of the Bay and keep an eye on your course heading of approximately 140 degrees towards Sister Bay. It can be helpful to utilize savvy navvy or other navigation apps to monitor your position and any potential marine traffic.3. **Notable Landmarks en Route** - Along the way, you might spot the cliff faces of Cave Point County Park to the east, offering a beautiful backdrop as you cruise. If time allows, consider a detour to take in the scenic park, known for its loveliness and limestone formations. - There's also the historic Stonecipher cabin seen from a distance as you approach Sister Bay; a perfect photo op if the conditions permit.4. **Sheltering Bays** - Should the weather take a turn for the worse, you have an option to head into Fish Creek, which is a nearby harbor to the south. There you will find adequate shelter and friendly harbor facilities.5. **Approach to Sister Bay** - As you get closer, you’ll note the entrance to Sister Bay harbor marked by several buoys. Watch for the green channel marker leading into Sister Bay. The harbor is spacious and generally well-protected.#### Sister Bay ArrivalUpon arrival at Sister Bay (coordinates -87.1229, 45.19073), you'll be welcomed by a vibrant waterfront filled with shops, restaurants, and activities. Look out for the iconic Sister Bay Marina where you can dock and explore numerous attractions including family-friendly parks and waterfront dining options.#### Important Navigational Aids- Keep an eye on day markers and channel markers guiding you towards your destination, particularly the red and green buoys indicating the preferred navigational channels. - As you navigate, check in with the local VHF marine radio channel for any weather updates or boating advisories.#### Local Regulations and Safety Considerations- Adhere to all local speed limits and be aware of no-wake zones, especially around marinas and docks in both Ephraim and Sister Bay.- Always wear life jackets, and inform someone of your travel plans in case of emergencies.#### ConclusionThis route from Ephraim to Sister Bay is a perfect getaway for relaxation and exploration. With its blend of beautiful landscapes, convenient shelters, and charming destinations, both novice and experienced boaters will find it an enjoyable experience, all while prioritizing safety on the water. Don't forget to download savvy navvy to aid in navigation and keep abreast of local conditions as you embark on this adventure!