### Pilotage Plan: Green Bay, WI to Manitowoc, WI#### OverviewSetting off from Green Bay, Wisconsin, you will embark on an exciting trip across the scenic waters of Lake Michigan towards Manitowoc. This voyage blends the thrill of boating with the opportunity for exploration, surrounded by stunning landscapes, charming townships, and diverse wildlife. The route presents some navigational challenges and hazards that are manageable with careful planning. Suitable for experienced boaters familiar with larger bodies of water, this itinerary prioritizes safety while also promising a memorable adventure.---#### Departure from Green Bay**Starting Point:** - **Coordinates:** -88.0037, 44.5360333333 - **Departure Considerations:** Before you set sail, check the latest weather forecasts for potential storms or shifting winds coming off Lake Michigan. Always consider your boat's capabilities and ensure that you are equipped with life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit.#### Navigational Aids**Green Bay Harbor:** The entrance to Green Bay serves as a key navigation point. **Marking buoys** are placed along the entry and exit channels, guiding you safely past the surrounding shallow waters.---#### En Route HighlightsAs you glide out of Green Bay, be prepared for both natural beauty and local attractions:1. **Little Sturgeon Bay** - A great midway shelter if conditions worsen, Little Sturgeon Bay serves as a calm anchorage. It’s known for its beautiful views and is ideal for a picnic or a quick revisit to nature. You may also find local fishing spots thriving with bass and pike.2. **Appleton Bay** - If you decide to take your time, Appleton Bay is worth a stop. This bustling spot allows for exploring the local restaurants and enjoying some fresh catch from the lake.3. **Point Beach State Forest** - As you approach Two Rivers, make a slight detour towards Point Beach. The State Forest offers secluded beaches, nature trails, and camping areas, perfect for a break. Note that a small entrance fee may apply, so keep some cash on hand.---#### Notable Navigation Considerations**Navigational Aids:** - As you make your way south, keep an eye out for marked buoys and **lighthouses** along the route. The **Two Rivers Harbor Light** is another significant navigational point that indicates your approach to Manitowoc.**Hazards:** - Be mindful of shifting sandbars near the coastline and areas of reduced visibility, especially early in the morning or late in the day. Death’s Door Passage can experience sudden changes, so extra caution is advised.---#### Arrival in Manitowoc**Destination:** - **Coordinates:** -87.6498166667, 44.0966 - **Manitowoc Harbor:** Navigate carefully into the harbor, which may be crowded with commercial traffic. The harbor is well-marked but requires vigilance against unexpected wake and the swift current that can occur with prevailing winds. #### Points of Interest and Activities in Manitowoc:- After securing your vessel, take the opportunity to visit the **Wisconsin Maritime Museum** for insights into the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes.- Enjoy the local dining scene along Maritime Drive, where you can relish local delicacies, often freshly caught from the very waters you navigated.---### Safety and RegulationsBefore embarking, familiarize yourself with local boating regulations. Both Green Bay and Manitowoc have specific rules regarding speed limits and no-wake zones, especially near marinas and sensitive wildlife areas. Always operate your boat responsibly, prioritizing the safety of your crew and other water users.Ensure you have accessible navigation tools; I recommend downloading apps like **Savvy Navvy** for easy route planning, alongside others such as **Navionics** and **Windy** for real-time weather insights. ---This trip from Green Bay to Manitowoc offers a fantastic blend of minor hazards and breathtaking sights, making it perfect for those with solid boating skills and a love for exploration. Regardless of your itinerary's twists and turns, the camaraderie of your crew and the beauty of the great outdoors will ensure that every moment spent on the water is truly memorable. Remember: Safety first, but fun is just as important!