Pilotage Plan: Gulfport, Mississippi to Dauphin Island, Alabama

Route Overview

Embarking from Gulfport, Mississippi, to the serene shores of Dauphin Island, Alabama, is a journey that combines thrilling coastal navigation with serene landscapes. This route covers approximately 45 nautical miles, taking you through some of the most beautiful waterways on the Gulf Coast. Ideal for skilled recreational boaters and those comfortable with coastal navigation, this trip offers opportunities for scenic vistas, wildlife spotting, and potential shelter from inclement weather.

Starting Point: Gulfport, Mississippi

Before you set sail, take the time to familiarize yourself with Gulfport’s local marina facilities, which provide essential services like fueling, provisions, and vessel maintenance. Gulfport's shoreline is dotted with charming bars and restaurants where you can gather supplies and fuel your enthusiasm for the journey ahead.

Navigational Considerations and Points of Interest

1. Departing Gulfport: - As you leave the harbor, pay attention to markers such as the Gulfport Harbor Light (Light

2) which provides critical guidance while navigating the initial stretch of your journey.

- Be mindful of the wide commercial shipping channels, and keep radio communication open for any vessel traffic.

2. The Ship Island: - As you proceed westward, consider a detour to Ship Island, located approximately 11 nautical miles from Gulfport. With its stunning beaches and historic Fort Massachusetts, it's a popular spot to anchor for a day or two, offering opportunities for swimming and picnicking. Ensure to check for any local regulations as it is managed by the National Park Service.

3. Close Encounters with Nature: - Keep an eye out for the Pascagoula River entrance, a vital estuary teeming with local wildlife, including dolphins and numerous bird species. This area offers excellent kayaking and fishing opportunities if time allows. - Also, be cautious of the shifting sandbars and changing currents at the river mouth. Use your chartplotter to navigate these waters safely.

4. Shelter Options: - Continued westward, make a note of Little Bayou at coordinates 30.388889, -88.981389. This bay provides excellent shelter from sudden storms, making it a wise stop if the weather predicts deterioration. Maintain awareness of local wind patterns and tidal changes, as these can affect your anchorage.

5. Approaching Dauphin Island: - As you near Dauphin Island, be vigilant of the entry points, particularly around the east end of the island, where the current can be strong. Light

11, marking the Dauphin Island East Entrance, is crucial in guiding your approach.

- The local harbor facilities at Dauphin Island offer a range of services for visiting boaters. Take a moment to enjoy the island's relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and local seafood.

Navigational Aids and Regulations

• Navigation Aids: Utilize the following key navigation aids along your route:
- Gulfport Harbor Light, Light

2

- Light House Point, Light

3

- Marker buoys that delineate major channels through the shipping lanes.

• Regulatory Considerations:
- Be aware of local fishing regulations, particularly in protected estuarine zones. - Maintain a safe speed in congested areas and obey the no-wake zones, particularly around marinas and residential waterfronts.

Safety First

Safety is paramount in this beautiful but potentially hazardous coastal environment. Ensure you have all necessary safety equipment onboard, including life jackets, flares, communication devices, and sufficient fuel reserves. Always check the weather forecast and heed the local advisories, as storms can develop rapidly along the Gulf Coast.

Recommended Boating Apps

Before you head out, equip yourself with essential nautical apps. I recommend using savvy navvy for great chart data and route planning, along with:
• Navionics for updated charts and maps.
• Windy for accurate weather forecasting.
• Fishbrain for potential fishing hotspots if you want to cast a line.

This trip from Gulfport to Dauphin Island is not just a journey but an experience, allowing you to embrace the beauty of the Gulf Coast while navigating with confidence and safety in mind. Happy sailing!