### Pilotage Plan: From Inverness to Nairn**Route Overview:**Embarking on a journey from Inverness to Nairn offers a delightful exploration of the Moray Firth. This relatively short coastal trip spans approximately 10 nautical miles, making it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters. The route combines the excitement of open water with a backdrop of stunning Scottish landscapes, charming towns, and the possibility of wildlife sightings. ---#### Section 1: Departure from Inverness**Starting Point:**- **Location:** Inverness (Coordinate: Lon: -4.2532, Lat: 57.4763)- **Navigation Aids:** Ensure to watch for the Inverness Marina entrance as a landmark. The marina provides a safe starting point to embark on your voyage. **Safety Note:** Before departing, check the local weather conditions, tide schedules, and any potential advisories, as the waters may be variable. The tides can affect depth, especially in shallower areas closer to Nairn.---#### Section 2: Route to Nairn**Course Details:**The primary route will take you south-east across the Moray Firth. You'll steer approximately 120 degrees from Inverness through the following notable navigation points:1. **Morar Point**: As you leave the Inverness area, keep an eye out for Morar Point, a distinct feature of the landscape. Monitoring your position relative to the point will help ensure you stay on course.2. **Navigational Aids**: Make sure to keep a lookout for the Moray Firth Navigation Buoys. These provide guidance channel markers. Familiarize yourself with the buoyage system – typically red buoys indicate the port side when returning to harbour, while green buoys indicate the starboard side.3. **Tidal Knowledge**: As you approach Nairn, keep in mind that the entrance can be affected by tidal movements. Understand the tidal flow and plan your arrival accordingly to enter the harbour at a suitable depth.**Hazards to Avoid:**- Watch for fishing vessels in the Moray Firth; the area is popular with local fishing boats. Maintain a safe distance and be attentive to their movements.- Be cautious of the submerged rocks and shallow patches around the Nairn harbour entrance. It’s advisable to consult your charts and any local pilotage information before approaching.---#### Section 3: Shelters and Points of Interest **Havens Along the Way:**If the weather takes an unexpected turn, consider:- **Chanonry Point**: A beautiful spot known for its significant tide and stunning views across the Moray Firth. It’s a great place to anchor temporarily; however, be mindful of tidal streams when deciding to anchor.**Points of Interest:**- **Nairn Beach**: A lovely sandy beach right in Nairn, ideal for relaxation. Upon your arrival, enjoy the scenic coast as you step ashore.- **Nairn's Carnival and Events**: Depending on the timing of your trip, check the local schedule for events. Nairn frequently hosts fairs, markets, and cultural events worth experiencing.---#### Section 4: Arrival in Nairn**Port of Call:**- **Nairn (Coordinate: Lon: -3.8622, Lat: 57.5899)**- Upon arrival at Nairn Harbour, follow the guidance of local marina staff for dockage and mooring. **Local Rules and Regulations:**Remember, local boating regulations must be adhered to, particularly concerning speed limits in certain areas and respect for designated swimming zones. Make sure to maintain an appropriate lookout while along the shore.---### Conclusion:This route is perfect for boaters looking to appreciate Scotland's natural beauty while remaining vigilant about safety. From navigating the initial waters of the Moray Firth to the soft sands of Nairn, it promises a rewarding experience filled with both adventure and relaxation. I recommend using navigation apps like **savvy navvy**, which provides excellent route-planning features and tidal data, ensuring you have all the information at your fingertips for a safe and enjoyable trip. Bon voyage as you embark on this picturesque Scottish experience!