**Pilotage Plan: Fernandina Beach, Florida to Jekyll Island, Georgia****Overview:**This journey from Fernandina Beach, Florida, to Jekyll Island, Georgia, offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, navigational challenges, and ample opportunities for adventure. With a distance of roughly 17 nautical miles, this route is well-suited for experienced cruisers and boating enthusiasts looking to explore the intricate coastal waterways of the Southeastern United States.### Departure from Fernandina Beach, Florida**Starting Point:**Fernandina Beach is an appealing town with charm and rich history. Before setting sail, consider checking out the historic district, the Amelia Island Lighthouse, or enjoying a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants. **Navigational Considerations:**The first segment will take you through the waters of the Amelia River. Be watchful for shallow areas and submerged hazards around the river mouth, especially near the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean. Approach buoys and markers carefully, ensuring your charts are up-to-date. ### Along the Route**Hazards and Shelters:**As you sail south, you will encounter several key spots worth noting. Ben’s inlets and the Cumberland Sound are excellent shelter points should weather conditions turn unfavorable. Be especially cautious of tidal currents and planning your passage according to the tide schedule if stopping at these locations. The Cumberland Island National Seashore is also nearby—its pristine beauty offers a fantastic opportunity for exploration.**Landmarks:**As you navigate along the coast, keep an eye out for notable landmarks such as the historic ruins of Dungeness on Cumberland Island and the picturesque lighthouses. Both provide great opportunities for a short detour, allowing for some exploration and photography.**Navigational Aids:**As you journey towards Jekyll Island, you will need to pay attention to buoys and markers, particularly near the entrance to the Jekyll River. The entrance is marked by channel buoys that guide you safely into the waterway. Watch for currents; the Jekyll River can have relatively strong tidal flows.### Arrival at Jekyll Island, Georgia**Final Approach:**Upon reaching Jekyll Island, you’ll notice the serene beauty of the marshlands. Jekyll Island offers a range of activities, from cycling scenic trails in the Historic District to relaxing at pristine beaches like Driftwood Beach. This island is also home to the Jekyll Island Club Historic District, an area steeped in fascinating history that makes a perfect stopover.**Local Regulations:**Familiarize yourself with local navigational regulations specific to Jekyll Island and surrounding waters. Ensure your vessel is equipped to meet safety regulations, including life jackets for all passengers, flares, and working VHF radios. Pay attention to no-wake zones around marinas and heavily trafficked areas to ensure a safe experience for everyone.### Safety and Recommendations**Safety First:**Prioritizing safety is crucial on this trip. Regularly check the weather forecast and have a backup plan in case of changing conditions. Equip yourself with safety gear and ensure that all crew members are briefed on emergency procedures. **Boating Apps:**For navigation ease and weather updates, consider utilizing apps like Savvy Navvy to help plot your course accurately. Additionally, apps such as Navionics or OpenCPN can aid in providing detailed charts, while Weather Underground will keep you informed of current conditions.In summary, the journey from Fernandina Beach to Jekyll Island is not merely a transit between two points; it is an experience enriched with natural beauty, adventure, and history. This route is especially suitable for pleasure boats and sailing vessels that appreciate the tranquility of coastal cruising, while allowing for fun explorations along the way. Happy sailing!