### Pilotage Plan: Fort Pierce, Florida to Lake Worth, Florida#### OverviewThis journey along Florida's stunning Atlantic coastline starts in Fort Pierce, a charming community known for its picturesque waterfront, and takes you to Lake Worth, a vibrant hub filled with art and culture. The route is ideal for cruisers looking for a combination of serene coastal navigation, the thrill of encountering marine life, and various opportunities for safe anchorages and enjoyable stops along the way.#### Starting Point: Fort PierceAs you leave Fort Pierce, take a moment to appreciate the picturesque Indian River Lagoon nearby, famous for its biodiversity. Before departure, ensure all safety gear is in place, including life jackets, flares, and first aid supplies. The Fort Pierce Inlet provides safe access to the open sea while lending you a lookout for navigating through the busy shipping lanes.#### Route Description1. **Departure from Fort Pierce Inlet**: After passing the inlet markers, head south along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Be mindful of local boat traffic, especially around the inlet area. 2. **Navigational Aids**: Pay close attention to the day markers and buoys. The “G” and “R” markers are pivotal along the ICW to guide your path. The ICW is generally well-marked and maintained; however, watch for shallow areas and always check your charts.3. **Stuart**: Approximately 18 nautical miles into your journey, you can detour west of the ICW into the St. Lucie River. The city of Stuart is a recommended stop. Enjoy the local dining scene and perhaps take a stroll around downtown. In case of adverse weather, there are several marinas offering transient dockage.4. **Boca Raton**: Continuing south, Boca Raton is another excellent stop. It's about 30 nautical miles from Stuart. The inlet provides an open bay option for staging before entering the ICW. The nearby beaches are beautiful, and the area boasts a variety of attractions, including parks and shopping centers.5. **Shelters Along the Way**: If the weather turns nasty, there are various spots to seek shelter: - **Hobe Sound**: A protected anchorage can be found near Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, providing a natural barrier from ocean swells. - **Boynton Beach Inlet**: Another safe inlet where you can find calm waters should a storm approach.6. **Navigational Considerations**: The stretch along the ICW can expose you to a range of weather patterns. Be sure to monitor local forecasts and marine advisories. The speed limit in many areas along the ICW is 6 knots, so be conscious of reducing your speed, particularly in crowded areas to avoid creating large wakes.#### Arrival at Lake WorthAs you navigate into Lake Worth, you will notice the shifting sceneries from serene coastal marshlands to the vibrant beach town atmosphere. Upon arrival, you can dock at the Lake Worth Marina, where you'll find easy access to local shops, beaches, and an active arts scene.#### Highlights of the Journey- **Safety Priority**: Always check your vessel’s readiness before departing, stay updated on weather conditions, and adhere to navigational aids.- **Fun Activities**: Throughout the trip, engage in fishing, wildlife observation, beach outings, and local dining experiences.- **Recommended Apps**: For planning and navigation assistance, use savvy navvy, which provides accurate charts, weather forecasts, and route planning tools.This trip is perfect for recreational cruisers and experienced boaters alike, allowing for flexibility in exploring Florida’s coastline while prioritizing safety. Prepare well, enjoy the warm sun, and let the natural beauty of Florida guide your outing!