**Pilotage Plan: Hayling Island to Eastbourne****Route Overview**Embarking on this journey from Hayling Island to Eastbourne presents a delightful mix of scenic coastal views, charming harbors, and fascinating maritime history. This route is especially suitable for leisure boaters and those looking for a leisurely cruise with opportunities to explore, all while prioritizing safety and navigational awareness.### Departure from Hayling Island**Coordinates:** Longitude -0.9695, Latitude 50.8334 Begin your adventure from Hayling Island, a beautiful spot known for its sandy beaches and water sports. Before setting sail, check local weather conditions to gauge suitable sailing times as coastal conditions can shift rapidly.### Notable Points Along the RouteAs you navigate eastward towards Eastbourne, keep an eye out for several points of interest:1. **Chichester Harbour** - **Coordinates (approx.):** Longitude -0.9520, Latitude 50.8400 This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a hotspot for wildlife and offers safe sheltered bays. If conditions start to deteriorate, consider anchoring in one of the many serene spots—such as Itchenor or Emsworth—before continuing your journey.2. **Selsey Bill** - **Coordinates (approx.):** Longitude -0.7580, Latitude 50.7100 A prominent headland marking the entrance to the Solent and offering a great navigational landmark. Take care when rounding Selsey Bill, especially in less favorable weather, and be aware of the tidal currents that can create challenging conditions.3. **Worthing** - **Coordinates (approx.):** Longitude -0.3540, Latitude 50.8100 A lovely coastal town offering a bit of fun and attractions such as the pier and pleasant coastal walks. A pause here, particularly on a sunny day, can enhance your trip before heading further east.4. **Shoreham Harbour** - **Coordinates (approx.):** Longitude -0.2730, Latitude 50.8325 A significant port along the route where you can find excellent shelter. Should the weather impact your plans, Shoreham Harbour has ample facilities for services and provisions.### Key Navigation Considerations1. **Tidal Awareness**: The tidal range along this coast is significant, impacting navigation around harbors and estuaries. It’s essential to consult tidal charts to plan your passage appropriately, especially when accessing shallow areas.2. **Navigational Aids**: - St. Aubyn’s Buoy: A critical navigational marker to keep on your port side when passing Selsey Bill. - Shoreham River Pilotage Marks: Watch out for navigational lights guiding towards the river mouth—important for safe entry and exit.3. **Local Regulations**: Familiarize yourself with local bylaws, especially around Selsey, where time-sensitive aspects of navigation may apply. Adhering to speed limits and buoyage systems is crucial to ensure a safe journey.### Arrival at Eastbourne**Coordinates:** Longitude 0.3278, Latitude 50.7916 Upon reaching Eastbourne, you’ll be greeted by its iconic seafront, complete with the famous Eastbourne Pier and the nearby South Downs National Park. Considerations for safety exist here as well: watch for local boat traffic and adhere to any mooring regulations which are generally well-marked.### Weather and Safety Tips- Constantly monitor weather conditions. Apps like **Savvy Navvy** can provide real-time updates and are invaluable for planning your navigational routes and identifying safe anchorages.- Make sure you have a suitable life jacket for every passenger on board, along with a reliable communication device.### ConclusionThis trip from Hayling Island to Eastbourne encapsulates the joy of coastal navigation while emphasizing safety and awareness of changing conditions. You’ll enjoy a myriad of opportunities to explore charming harbors and picturesque towns while ensuring your journey remains both pleasurable and secure. As you set sail on this magnificent stretch of the English coast, embrace the experience of being out on the water—there’s truly no better way to appreciate the coast than from your boat!