Pilotage Plan: Jacksonville, Florida to St. Mary's, Georgia
Overview
This route from Jacksonville, Florida, to St. Mary's, Georgia, presents a fantastic opportunity for boaters looking for a mixture of safe navigation and leisurely exploration. The journey covers scenic waterways, dotted with protected bays, historical sites, and natural wonders, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned captains alike.
Route Description
The total distance of the trip is approximately 35 nautical miles, primarily navigating through the picturesque St. Johns River and the Amelia River. Given the unique characteristics of each portion, this trip can be broken into several segments, making it easier to manage and enjoy.
Segment 1: Jacksonville to Fort George Inlet
- Distance: Approximately 10 NM
- Navigation: Depart Jacksonville, heading northeast up the St. Johns River. The River is well-marked with a series of navigational aids, but always keep an eye on your chart plotter. Monitor the NOAA charts for depth and watch for shifting shoals.
- Hazards: Be mindful of the current and local traffic, including commercial vessels. The entrance to Fort George Inlet can have strong tidal influences, so plan your passage accordingly—preferably during a favorable current.
- Point of Interest: Just before reaching Fort George Inlet, you can detour slightly to visit Fort Caroline National Memorial, which offers historical insights and scenic views.
Segment 2: Fort George Inlet to Talbot Island State Park
- Distance: Approximately 5 NM
- Shelter: Talbot Island State Park has a beautiful anchorage at the south end, providing a perfect refuge if weather conditions change rapidly. The park itself features stunning natural landscapes and is ideal for a short hike or picnic while ashore.
- Navigation: Pay attention to the markers at the inlet. The waters can be shallow and tricky as you head into the park.
Segment 3: Talbot Island State Park to Amelia River
- Distance: Approximately 10 NM
- Navigational Aids: The Amelia River is well-marked, but watch for depth variations, especially near the islands. The chart plotter will assist you, but it’s always prudent to keep a lookout for any breaking waves or birds, indicating shoals.
- Point of Interest: The scenic views along the river provide opportunities for wildlife observation. Look for dolphins and herons in the quieter stretches.
Segment 4: Amelia River to St. Mary’s
- Distance: Approximately 10 NM
- Shelter: As you approach St. Mary’s, consider the anchorage in the protected waters at St. Mary’s River. It's an excellent spot for shelter, especially if storm conditions arise.
- Navigational Aids: The St. Mary’s entrance is marked with buoys—be cautious of the shoaling that can occur near the inlets. Check current weather conditions as wind can be a factor in this segment.
- Points of Interest: Once you arrive in St. Mary’s, take some time to explore Crooked River State Park. The park features hiking trails and picnic areas, plus access to local wildlife.
Safety Precautions
- Weather Monitoring: Always check local weather forecasts and conditions before departure. Sudden thunderstorms can occur, so be prepared to make adjustments.
- Life Jackets: Ensure everyone onboard has access to life jackets. It's a legal requirement and a critical safety enhancement.
- Communication: Ensuring a working VHF radio is imperative. Regularly check into local channels to stay updated on weather and navigational advisories.
- Boating Apps: In addition to traditional paper charts, consider using savvy navvy for real-time navigation support. Other useful apps can include MarineTraffic for vessel tracking and Windy for weather conditions.
Conclusion
This route from Jacksonville to St. Mary's presents not only a safe navigation experience but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and history of Florida and Georgia’s coastlines. Whether you're a novice or an experienced boater, the mixture of charming points of interest, accessible shelters, and clear navigational aids creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for your next boating adventure. Embrace the journey, keep safety paramount, and relish the serenity of these beautiful waterways.
