**Pilotage Plan: Harbour Island, The Bahamas to Eleuthera, BAH, BS****Route Overview:**This route from Harbour Island to Eleuthera is a beautiful journey through the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas, perfectly suited for both experienced sailors and leisurely boaters. The passage is relatively short—approximately 20 nautical miles—and offers breathtaking views, interesting landmarks, and several safe havens should conditions change unexpectedly.**Starting Point: Harbour Island, The Bahamas**- **Coordinates:** 25.494316022900307, -76.63892830126599- **Navigational Aids:** The entrance to Harbour Island is well-marked with lighted buoys—pay close attention to these as you exit the harbor to avoid groundings in shallow areas close to shore.**Key Waypoints:**1. **Dunmore Town:** A quaint community with charming architecture and friendly locals. Perfect for a morning stroll around before you set sail.2. **Current Cut:** As you navigate towards Eleuthera, watch out for the Current Cut, which is a narrow channel with strong currents. It's essential to time your transit through here during slack tide for smoother passage.3. **Pineapple Cay:** On your way, Pineapple Cay offers a great spot for a picnic or swimming. The area is semi-protected and would provide decent shelter in mild weather.**Sheltering Bays Along the Route:**- **Hatchet Bay:** About 5 nautical miles from Current Cut, Hatchet Bay is a safe harbor where you can seek refuge from storms. It’s a well-protected bay with a narrow entrance, marked by navigational aids that guide you in.- **Governor's Harbour:** Just around the corner from Hatchet Bay, Governor's Harbour offers additional shelter and has amenities like restaurants and markets—a perfect place to stock up before heading to Eleuthera.**Points of Interest:**- **The Glass Window Bridge:** A unique natural feature where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. It’s an excellent spot to anchor and take some stunning photographs.- **Cocoa Flats Beach:** Known for its soft sands and serene waters, this is an ideal spot to stop for some leisure time or even a dip in the water.**Navigational Considerations:**- Ensure your charts are updated as the waters can change, and there may be hazards due to shifting sands and reefs.- Always have your VHF radio handy, monitoring local channels for any updates regarding weather or local advisories.**Local Restrictions and Regulations:**- Sailors should be aware of no-wake zones, especially in populated areas around Governor's Harbour. - Be cautious of marine preserves—while exploring, make sure you’re adhering to local regulations to protect the delicate ecosystems.**Route Conclusion: Arrival at Eleuthera, BAH, BS**- **Coordinates:** 24.83705, -76.3426166667- Eleuthera provides welcoming communities, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of local culture and festivals, making it a rewarding destination.**Safety Considerations:**- Frequent weather checks are mandatory, as conditions can change rapidly in tropical climates. - Bring life jackets, a first aid kit, and be sure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety gear.- A reliable GPS navigation system is invaluable. Consider using sophisticated apps like **savvy navvy** for route planning and real-time tracking.This journey from Harbour Island to Eleuthera feels like a delightful blend of adventure and tranquility. With careful planning, and by prioritizing safety, it promises memorable experiences in the stunning Bahamian waters. Happy boating!