**Pilotage Plan for Boat Trip from Fernandina Beach, Florida to St. Simons Island, Georgia**---### Departure and Arrival Points:- **Starting Point:** Fernandina Beach, Florida - Latitude: 30.6705, Longitude: -81.4701- **Destination:** St. Simons Island, Georgia - Latitude: 31.1681, Longitude: -81.4117---### Route Overview:This trip is ideal for experienced coastal cruisers who enjoy a mixture of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and the opportunity for occasional refuge in charming coastal towns or expansive bays. The distance from Fernandina Beach to St. Simons Island is roughly 55 nautical miles, a comfortable day’s journey which can be further appreciated by delaying the trip into two leisurely days if desired.---### Hazards and Navigation Considerations:**1. Navigational Aids:**As you make your way northward, several navigational aids will help you along your route. Pay special attention to:- **Amelia River Light (Fl R 4s)**: This aids in navigating towards the channel.- **St. Marys Entrance Channel Markers**: These aids will help guide you safely past the shallow areas.**2. Tidal Influences:**The waters along this route are influenced by tides, with significant fluctuations. Be aware of the local tide tables, especially when navigating narrow channels such as those around the St. Marys River entrance.**3. Shallow Waters and Shoaling:**Particular attention should be paid to areas known for shoaling, especially around Sarabay and the entrance to Cumberland Sound. A depth sounder can be invaluable here to avoid grounding.---### Points of Interest and Shelter Options:**Bays for Refuge:**- **Cumberland Sound:** This bay offers good anchorage with protection from both southern and eastern winds. It's an excellent spot for both fishing and ensuring safety from inclement weather.- **St. Marys River:** Great for taking a detour. The town of St. Marys offers the chance for rest, food, and cultural exploration, plus access to the river's protected waters.**Local Attractions:**- **Amelia Island:** A short detour off your route. Stunning beaches, historic sites, and a charming downtown make for an enjoyable break.- **Cumberland Island National Seashore:** Here you can explore pristine beaches and wild horses if you choose to stop and explore further. Ensure to set aside some time to hike or take a guided tour when landing on the island.---### Route Directions:1. **Start from Fernandina Beach Harbor**, ensuring to check bottom conditions and currents as they can affect your departure.2. **Proceed to the Amelia River** (keeping to marked channels) and head north toward the mouth of the St. Marys River.3. **Navigate through the St. Marys Entrance Channel**, keeping a close eye on depth. This area may require slow speeds, especially during low tide to avoid shoals.4. **Once you’re through the Entrance**, you’ll enter the St. Marys River itself. The waters here are known for calmer conditions, making it a pleasant spot to cruise.5. **Continue to Cumberland Sound**, anchoring if necessary, or opt for a scenic view of Cumberland Island.6. **From Cumberland Sound, make your way southwest towards St. Simons Island**, using navigational aids and staying close to the primary channels marked on your charts.---### Local Regulations:- Ensure that you have the necessary permits for fishing, especially in areas like the St. Marys River and Cumberland Island, as they may have protected zones.- Familiarize yourself with any speed limits and local boating regulations; this is particularly important in more densely populated areas near St. Simons Island.---### Safety Recommendations:- Always carry up-to-date charts and utilize a reliable nautical app for real-time navigation, such as **savvy navvy**. Others like Navionics and NOAA Charts are also recommended.- Monitor weather conditions closely, particularly any sudden changes, as coastal storms can develop quickly. Maintain communication with local maritime authorities for updates.- Equip your vessel with life jackets for all onboard and ensure all safety equipment is functional, including flares and a first aid kit.---This trip provides an exceptional blend of navigational challenges and opportunities for discovery, sure to enrich any experienced boater’s journey along Florida's pristine coast towards Georgia’s storied islands. Whether it’s a day trip or a leisurely multi-day adventure, the waters between Fernandina Beach and St. Simons Island promise beautiful vistas and memorable experiences. Safe travels!