**Pilotage Plan: Gustavus, AK to Juneau, AK****Overview:**This journey from Gustavus to Juneau is one of breathtaking scenery and exciting navigation, taking you through natural wonders and occasionally challenging waters. Ideal for moderately experienced boaters who are comfortable with coastal cruising, this trip offers wonderful vistas of the Tongass National Forest and the tranquil beauty of the Inside Passage. Your safety is paramount, so we'll highlight numerous considerations to ensure an enjoyable experience.**Route Description:**1. **Departure from Gustavus:** Start your journey from the protected waters near Gustavus. As you depart, be cautious of the shallow areas around the Gustavus Harbor. Keep an eye out for local fishing vessels as they are actively navigating these waters.2. **Entrance to Glacier Bay National Park:** Just northwest of Gustavus, you'll find the entrance to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the park is mostly restricted, consider a brief detour to enjoy views of the glaciers from a safe distance. Always respect park regulations and wildlife sanctuaries. 3. **Point Adolphus:** Continuing southeast, navigate towards Point Adolphus. This is an excellent spot for whale watching, especially if you’re there during the peak season (May to September). It’s also a reliable spot for sheltered anchorage if weather conditions take a turn. Keep a close watch for fishing vessels and other wildlife.4. **Lituya Bay:** As you progress, Lituya Bay is another noteworthy stop. Known for its dramatic cliffs and historical significance, this bay provides safe harbor. Here, you can take in amazing scenery and even check out the remnants of the 1958 tsunami. Be wary of the strong tidal currents as they can shift quickly.5. **Crossing Icy Strait:** The waters between Point Adolphus and Icy Strait can experience strong currents and varying wind conditions. Be attentive to these, especially if the weather forecast indicates storms or high winds. It's wise to have a secondary route planned just in case conditions are not favorable.6. **Shemya Island:** Next, you can plan a stopover at Shemya Island, although largely uninhabited, it presents a unique opportunity for exploration. This small island’s lower tides allow for fascinating tidal pools, albeit you’ll need to check local regulations.7. **Approaching Juneau:** After sailing beyond Shemya Island, you’ll steer towards Juneau. The waterway navigates through a series of islands providing stunning views, and offers shelter in many areas if there's a need to seek cover from inclement weather. **Notable Navigation Considerations:**- **Navigational Aids:** As you travel, keep an eye on navigational buoys and be cognizant of your chartplotter. Key aids include Point Adolphus buoy and markers around Lituya Bay. Be sure to stay updated on your boating app for real-time data, including tide changes and weather updates. - **Tidal Considerations:** The Inside Passage is influenced heavily by tide cycles. Ensure you cross notable channels during favorable tide conditions to avoid shallow areas. Utilize tide charts alongside your navigation systems for the best planning.- **Wildlife Regulations:** Keep a respectful distance from marine wildlife, especially during birthing seasons. Maintaining an appropriate speed in areas known for wildlife sightings is not just a courtesy - it can prevent accidents.**Shelter and Fun Stop Recommendations:**The journey offers several options for shelter, particularly Lituya Bay and Point Adolphus. Each provides unique sights and sounds that make for delightful breaks. Additionally, consider fun activities like kayaking or exploring hiking trails in these sheltered bays where conditions allow.**Safety Measures:**- Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit aboard.- Always check weather updates prior to and during your trip.- Carry two forms of communication, such as a VHF radio and a mobile phone with signal coverage in mind.**Recommended Boating Apps:**- **Savvy Navvy:** Intuitive charting that provides routes and weather forecasts, perfect for planning your navigation effectively.- Other apps like Navionics and Windy for additional weather tracking and nautical charts could be beneficial on this trip.This trip from Gustavus to Juneau promises an exhilarating experience through some of Alaska's most stunning locales while providing ample opportunity for safe navigation and exploration. Ensure to stay alert, respect nature, and embrace the adventure that awaits. Happy boating!