**Pilotage Plan: Fort Pierce, Florida, to Hobe Sound, Florida****Route Overview**Embarking on this journey from Fort Pierce to Hobe Sound is a delightful experience for the cruising boater. With a distance of approximately 30 nautical miles, this route is perfect for recreational boaters seeking a day trip filled with scenic beauty, sheltered bays, and rich marine life. As you navigate the waters, safety remains paramount, so let’s explore the route in detail.**Starting Point: Fort Pierce, FL**Before setting off, make sure to check the weather and have your vessel scanned for any mechanical issues. Fort Pierce is known for its vibrant waterfront offering a plethora of attractions. The Fort Pierce Inlet is your gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and a robust point to begin your journey.**Leg 1: Fort Pierce to South Hutchinson Island (15 NM)**Heading east out of Fort Pierce Inlet, maintain a watchful eye on the buoys marking the channel. You will find a series of navigational aids here guiding you safely through the inlet. While cruising along South Hutchinson Island, enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic shoreline on your starboard and the Indian River Lagoon on your port side.**Point of Interest: South Hutchinson Island**As you sail along, consider taking a brief stop to explore South Hutchinson Island. The beaches here are serene, and the natural environment is rich with wildlife. If time permits, visiting the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is a great opportunity to observe birds and marine species.**Shelter: Jensen Beach (Around 7 NM)**If the weather suddenly shifts—strong winds or unfavorable conditions—head toward Jensen Beach, where you will find good shelter. This lovely beach area has facilities should you require a refuge from the elements, ensuring both safety and comfort.**Leg 2: South Hutchinson Island to Hobe Sound (15 NM)**Resuming your journey, continue south, keeping to the marked channels and utilizing your chart, as the waters can be shallow in patches, especially when you get near the shorelines. Pay special attention to navigational aids, particularly the channel markers that guide the way into the Hobe Sound area.**Navigational Considerations**As you proceed, watch for local regulations, especially in the No Wake zones around residential areas and parks. The area around Indian River Lagoon can also have restrictions due to ecological protections; abide by posted signs to maintain the health of these vital habitats. It’s wise to have a reliable marine navigation app onboard, such as savvy navvy, to assist with real-time navigation and routing.**Arrival: Hobe Sound, FL**Upon arrival in Hobe Sound, you’ll be greeted by the picturesque surroundings. The entrance here is marked clearly, and as you glide into Hobe Sound, the community welcomes you with beautiful coastal views. This area is known for its clean beaches, and the Hobesound beach is a perfect spot to unwind after your journey.**Activities**While predominantly focused on safety and navigation, there are also a multitude of opportunities for fun. Activities at Hobe Sound include shelling, fishing, and perhaps a short hike in one of the nearby nature preserves.**Final Recommendations**In conclusion, this route from Fort Pierce to Hobe Sound is particularly suitable for intermediate boaters who appreciate a blend of scenic vistas and manageable navigation. Ensure you have all necessary safety gear, stay informed about changing weather conditions, and familiarize yourself with local regulations. Also, having savvy navvy installed on your phone or device will help maintain safe navigation throughout the journey.Embark on this wonderful trip, and enjoy the natural beauty and serenity that Florida's coast has to offer!