### Pilotage Plan from Hollywood, Florida to Coral Gables, Florida#### OverviewThis journey takes you through the scenic waters surrounding South Florida, transitioning from the vibrant Hollywood area to the elegant Coral Gables. The route is dotted with natural beauty, fascinating landmarks, and suitable bays to provide shelter in case of unexpected weather changes. This trip caters to recreational boaters looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration, while emphasizing safety on the water.#### Route Description**Starting Point: Hollywood, Florida**- **Coordinates:** Longitude -80.1161, Latitude 26.0336- As you set off from Hollywood, prepare for a delightful day on the water. Ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.**Navigational Aids and Hazards:**- Departing from Hollywood’s Intracoastal Waterway, watch for the channel markers guiding you through the waters. The area is known for busy boat traffic, so keep a vigilant watch for larger vessels, especially ferries and fishing boats.- Maintain an eye out for shallow spots as you approach the north end of the Port Everglades Inlet. Following local navigation charts is crucial here.**Points of Interest:**1. **Fort Lauderdale:** As you head south, consider stopping in Fort Lauderdale. Known as the "Venice of America," its extensive waterways offer plenty of dining options. The stunning views of luxurious homes and yachts along the way make it an enjoyable detour.2. **Bays and Shelters:** - **Lake Sylvia:** Just east of the ICW near Fort Lauderdale, Lake Sylvia is a perfect spot to take shelter. Its calm waters provide a protective area if weather conditions worsen. - **Hillsboro Inlet:** Another nearby shelter offers safe anchorage if winds pick up, although it's a little further off the main course.**Continuing South:**- The journey further south past the Fort Lauderdale area remains stunning, with beautiful waterfront villas lining the Intracoastal Waterway and amazing views of natural landscapes. 3. **Las Olas Boulevard:** A must-visit while in Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas is known for its eclectic shops and famous eateries. If you need to refuel, this is an excellent place to dock and spend some time.**Approaching Coral Gables:**- As you leave Fort Lauderdale, continue south towards the Miami area. Stay in the marked channels, as the waters can be shallow and tricky; here, local knowledge and awareness of tidal fluctuations are beneficial.- Navigational aids will become more frequent as you near Miami, so keep your charts close. The Biscayne Bay area can experience swift currents, so adjust your speed accordingly.4. **Key Biscayne:** If time allows, consider a late-afternoon detour around Key Biscayne. While this may extend your trip slightly, its picturesque beaches are worth the view. Take care to navigate around the shallow areas.#### Arrival at Coral Gables- **Destination Coordinates:** Longitude -80.2592, Latitude 25.6797- Upon arrival in Coral Gables, known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and well-planned streets, you can dock at various marinas. The area offers a rich cultural experience with local attractions such as the historic Venetian Pool and the Coral Gables Museum.#### Safety and Regulations- Throughout the journey, adhere to all local speed limits and boating regulations, particularly around busy waterways and designated no-wake zones. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provides resources on boating laws, which can prevent potential fines or mishaps.- Monitoring the marine weather forecast is crucial, as changing weather patterns can bring sudden thunderstorms common to the region. If conditions worsen, don’t hesitate to seek sanctuary in one of the nearby bays mentioned.#### Recommended Boating AppsFor navigating on your route, consider utilizing helpful apps including:- **Savvy Navvy:** A fantastic tool for planning and navigating your route, offering detailed charts and real-time updates on weather conditions.- **Navionics:** Offers great mapping features and essential navigation data.- **MarineTraffic:** Monitor vessel traffic and gain insights into harbor locations.This pilotage plan showcases a route that is perfect for recreational boaters who prioritize safety while still indulging in the beauty and activities South Florida has to offer. Happy boating and enjoy your adventure!