### Pilotage Plan: Fort Pierce to Port Saint Lucie, FloridaEmbarking on a boat trip from Fort Pierce to Port Saint Lucie presents a delightful journey for both novice and seasoned sailors. The distance between these two coastal cities is relatively short, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. The waters along the route provide a mix of serene cruising, interesting wildlife observations, and stunning coastal views.#### Route OverviewThe journey stretches approximately 20 nautical miles through the Indian River Lagoon, primarily along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This well-charted waterway, sheltered from the open ocean, is perfect for a leisurely day of navigation while offering multiple options for safe harbor should the weather change unexpectedly.#### Section 1: Departure from Fort Pierce- **Departure Point**: Fort Pierce Inlet (N27.4570, W80.2983)- **Navigational Aids**: As you leave Fort Pierce Inlet, pay close attention to the red and green marker buoys that guide you through this bustling inlet. The Fort Pierce Inlet Lighthouse is a striking visual reference nearby.- **Local Points of Interest**: Consider a quick stop at Fort Pierce City Marina for fuel or stocking up on provisions before heading out. You can also explore the nearby parks or the local seafood restaurants.#### Section 2: Indian River Lagoon- After navigating the inlet, you’ll enter the Indian River Lagoon. This region is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and manatees, perfect for nature enthusiasts.- **Shelter Bays**: - **Bayshore Boulevard**: This provides good shelter against westerly winds, offering a great spot to anchor and take a swim. - **Round Island Park**: Located just a little off your course, this land reserve has excellent amenities for a break, including picnic spots and trails for exploring the environment.#### Section 3: Navigational Considerations- **Marina Passages**: Keep an eye out for mud banks, especially in Auggie Creek and near the state parks. Stick to the marked channel at all times to avoid grounding in shallow spots.- **Regulated Areas**: Be aware of Manatee Zones near St. Lucie County, where posted speed limits reduce to often 25 knots. These zones are crucial for protecting the local wildlife, so adherence ensures both safety and environmental responsibility.- **Navigation Aids**: The ICW is well-marked with a series of buoys that you’ll need to follow closely. Refer to your nautical charts to maintain your course and look for any updates on buoy placements or conditions.#### Section 4: Arrival at Port Saint Lucie- **End Point**: Sail into Port St. Lucie via the St. Lucie River, where you can find the many amenities the city offers.- **Points of Interest**: Upon arrival, the Port Saint Lucie Marina offers docking options, and nearby you can explore the beautiful parks like the Riverwalk Boardwalk that jogs along the scenic riverfront.- **Final Considerations**: Before docking, check the local tide and current reports. Be mindful of busy boating traffic around the marina especially on weekends.### ConclusionThis trip from Fort Pierce to Port Saint Lucie perfectly balances a scenic cruise with safe navigational practices. Suitable for recreational boaters looking for both leisure and a touch of adventure, the route invites exploration and connection with the natural beauty of Florida's waterways. #### Recommended Apps:For safer navigation and additional information on the water, I highly recommend using the following apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: For route planning, anchorage details, and tide charts.- **Navionics**: For detailed charts and real-time updates on your cruising route.- **Windy**: To monitor weather conditions and patterns during your journey. With this comprehensive plan in hand, you should be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable boating experience. Remember to stay vigilant, respect the environment, and have fun as you sail along Florida's beautiful east coast!