**Pilotage Plan from Florida City, Florida to North Miami Beach, Florida**---**Trip Overview:**This wonderfully scenic boating route from Florida City to North Miami Beach offers a blend of rich marine life, stunning coastal scenery, and both peaceful bays for shelter and lively attractions for enjoyment. This route is ideal for experienced coastal boaters who are prepared for changing weather conditions but also serves as an excellent journey for enthusiastic day cruiser types. ---**Route Details:**1. **Departure Point: Florida City, Florida** - As you set off from Florida City, you’re greeted by the expansive waters of Biscayne Bay. Ensure that you have your navigation systems operational, as you’ll be navigating some busy waters shortly.2. **Navigational Aids and Hazards:** - The initial section of the journey will take you through the southern part of Biscayne Bay. A key reference point here is the **Fowey Rocks Light**, located at approximately 25.54N, 80.085W. It marks a vital hazard in the area and is something to keep in sight while proceeding northward. - Be mindful of shallow areas, particularly near the **Rock Harbor** area. Pay attention to local navigation charts to avoid grounding in these exposed shoals.3. **Points of Interest Along the Way:** - About an hour into your journey, you can explore **Deering Estate**, which sits just off the eastern shore of Biscayne Bay. This iconic historical site offers nature trails and educational programs, making it a great spot to drop anchor and explore the rich ecological system of the area. - As you continue north, keep an eye on **Key Biscayne**, a beautiful barrier island that features crystal-clear waters and lovely beaches. This is a favored spot for locals, and you might find an opportunity to swim or have a picnic on the beach if the weather permits.4. **Shelter Bays:** - **Boca Chita Key** presents a lovely bay as a potential shelter if the weather turns. As you approach, you may notice the charming lighthouse. It’s a small island primarily used for day trips and provides an excellent anchor point in case of inclement weather. - **Virginia Key** is another notable area to consider for a brief break or emergency shelter. Known for its vibrant marine life, the waters here are generally calm and provide reasonable anchorage.---**Navigational Considerations:**As you move closer to North Miami Beach, pay special attention to local shipping traffic. The port areas are busier, and you'll want to maintain a sharp lookout for larger vessels. Key navigational aids include:- The **Government Cut**, which provides access to the Port of Miami. Stay exactly within the marked channels to avoid hazards.- Look for **channel markers** and **buoys** that help indicate safe routes and shallow waters.---**Local Regulations:**- Make sure to abide by local speed limits, especially when passing through residential zones or near wildlife preservation areas.- The waters around Biscayne National Park and the nearby reefs are protected areas. Any fishing or anchoring within these zones requires a permit, so make sure to check the local regulations before setting off.---**Arrival: North Miami Beach, Florida**- Upon arrival in North Miami Beach, you’ll be greeted by the stunning skyline and vibrant neighborhoods. The docks here are accommodating, and you can find various restaurants and shops to explore.---**Final Thoughts:**This trip is not just about reaching your destination; it’s a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Florida’s coastline while remaining vigilant about safety on the water. The gentle currents and sheltered bays make this a perfect route for confident boaters who are prepared for anything. Utilize navigation applications like **savvy navvy** to monitor weather conditions and track your course seamlessly; local knowledge can help enhance your experience. Remember to respect marine wildlife and enjoy your adventure! Stay safe, and happy boating!