**Pilotage Plan from Gibsons, BC to Bowen Island, BC****Starting Point: Gibsons, BC, CA** As you depart from Gibsons, nestled at the northern end of Howe Sound, you’ll experience a blend of beautiful scenery and coastal charm. Before setting out, it’s wise to check the local marine weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.**Route Overview:** The journey to Bowen Island is approximately 12 nautical miles, making it an accessible day trip for both novice and experienced boaters. This route will take you through stunning landscapes and provide opportunities for sheltered stops along the way.**Key Navigation Considerations:**1. **Safety First:** Prior to your journey, ensure all safety equipment on board is in good condition, including life jackets, flares, a first-aid kit, and a properly functioning VHF radio.2. **Navigational Aids:** Be vigilant of local buoys and markers along the route, particularly near the entrance of Howe Sound. Look for: - **Gibsons Harbour Entrance Buoys**: These will guide you out safely into open waters. - **Sandy Hook Buoy** (approximately 1 nautical mile south-east of Gibsons): A significant marker to navigate by as you head toward your destination.**Points of Interest Along the Route:**- **Sandy Hook**: A beautiful spot to relax on the sandy beach or enjoy swimming. This area provides a good choice for a brief rest if needed.- **Keats Island**: Located en route, this island is a popular stop for picnicking, hiking, and spotting wildlife. Sheltered bays on the northern side of the island can offer refuge if the winds shift unfavorably. **Shelter Options:**- **Keats Landing**: If the weather takes a turn for the worse, Keats Landing provides a sheltering cove where you can safely anchor and ride out changing conditions.- **Roberts Creek**: Just slightly off your route, this creek offers a nice place to take refuge with its secluded waters and picturesque views.**Entering Bowen Island:**As you approach Bowen Island, make note of:- **Point Atkinson Lighthouse**, which will be your beacon leading you into the waters surrounding Bowen Island. Pay attention to navigation charts as you close in—this area can have strong currents, and it's worth knowing where the shallows are.**Regulations and Local Considerations:**Adhere to local speed limits in designated areas and respect the designated marine protected zones around Bowen Island. Always keep an eye out for local fishing vessels and other recreational boats, ensuring safe passage among them.**Suggested Apps for Navigation:**To enhance your boating experience, consider using the following apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: Offers user-friendly charts and weather data to aid in navigation and planning.- **Navionics**: Another powerful tool for providing charts and GPS functionality.- **MarineTraffic**: Helps you track vessel movements and weather systems in the area.**Ending Point: Bowen Island, BC, CA**Arriving at Bowen Island, you’ll find a quaint community with beautiful hiking trails, artistic local shops, and eateries that offer fresh, local cuisine. Whether you’re planning to explore the island or just enjoy a quiet day at anchor, this trip showcases the best of what British Columbia's coastal waters can offer.In summary, this route from Gibsons to Bowen Island is ideal for boaters of all experience levels. It offers manageable distances, scenic views, ample opportunities for safe anchoring, and exciting destinations to explore. Enjoy your trip, and most importantly, stay safe on the water!