**Pilotage Plan: Guntersville, AL to Chattanooga, TN**### Overview:This journey along the Tennessee River from Guntersville, Alabama, to Chattanooga, Tennessee, is perfect for experienced recreational boaters seeking a balance of safety, beautiful scenery, and unique experiences on the water. The total journey spans approximately 140 nautical miles, providing opportunities to explore quaint towns, stunning views, and delightful natural beauty.### Route Details:#### Departure Point: Guntersville, AL- **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -86.2784, 34.3969- **Nearby Facilities:** Guntersville Marina offers good docking and amenities, including fuel, provisions, and maintenance.#### Section 1: Guntersville Lake- Navigate east through Guntersville Lake, a vast body of water that provides beautiful landscapes and deep waters, ideal for both leisure cruising and fishing.- **Points of Interest:** - **Lake Guntersville State Park**: Just a short distance from the water, this park offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks, perfect for a quick land excursion.- **Navigational Aids:** - Be attentive to local markers indicating no-wake zones, especially in busy areas near marinas and waterfront properties.- **Shelter**: If weather conditions deteriorate, several small coves around the state park allow for temporary anchorage.#### Section 2: Past the Town of Guntersville- Continue south on the Tennessee River through a series of serene, scenic views, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as herons and eagles that frequent this habitat.- **Navigational Aids:** Ensure you keep track of green and red buoys marking the channel, particularly around the stretch leading to the Nickajack Dam.#### Section 3: The Nickajack Dam Area- As you approach the Nickajack Dam, prepare for some swift currents. This area can have strong eddies, and it’s essential to maintain control of your vessel.- **Points of Interest:** - A popular sight is the Nickajack Cave, known for its unique limestone formations and historical significance.- **Shelter**: If conditions worsen, consider seeking refuge in Nickajack Lake, where you can find calm waters suitable for anchoring.#### Section 4: The Last Leg to Chattanooga- After passing Nickajack Dam, the river widens, providing a more relaxed navigation experience.- As you near Chattanooga, the landscape transforms into rolling hills, creating picturesque views.- **Points of Interest:** - Chattanooga is famous for Lookout Mountain. A stop at one of the marinas will give you access to this landmark. - The Tennessee Aquarium offers a fun family-friendly experience with engaging exhibits.- **Navigational Aids**: Pay close attention to commercial traffic signals, especially with the presence of larger vessels heading to and from the bustling ports of Chattanooga.### Important Navigational Considerations:- Always monitor the weather closely. It can change rapidly, especially in the summer months. Have a reliable weather app onboard and consider using apps like Savvy Navvy for tracking weather patterns and route planning.- Ensure that you are aware of local boating regulations. Some areas may require registration or specific licensing, particularly when nearing busy commercial zones.### Conclusion:This route is especially suitable for experienced recreational boaters looking to explore the beauty of the Tennessee River while enjoying safe navigation. By focusing on the significant points of interest, ensuring proper weather precautions, and adhering to navigational aids, you will be able to enjoy a serene and memorable boating experience from Guntersville to Chattanooga, making it a truly rewarding trip on the water.