**Pilotage Plan for Boat Trip from Jupiter, Florida to Port St. Lucie, Florida****Route Overview:**Setting sail from Jupiter, Florida (26.9393° N, 80.0853° W) towards Port St. Lucie, Florida (27.2441° N, 80.3149° W) provides an opportunity to explore some of South Florida's beautiful waterways while witnessing the local wildlife and vibrant coastal communities. This route is ideal for coastal cruisers and those who appreciate a slow-paced journey, making it suitable for recreational boaters and families.---**Section 1: Starting Point - Jupiter, Florida**Before embarking, ensure your vessel is seaworthy, stocked with essential safety gear, and has up-to-date navigation charts. Jupiter Inlet is a well-marked passage, but be cautious of shifting currents, particularly at the inlet, where the waters can be choppy. **Local Points of Interest:**- **Jupiter Lighthouse:** Just a short ride from the inlet, this iconic lighthouse offers a glimpse into local maritime history.- **Coral Cove Park:** An excellent place to stop for a picnic or explore the tide pools along the shoreline.---**Section 2: The Passage to Port St. Lucie**As you depart Jupiter, you'll navigate northward primarily through the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) for most of the journey, providing a sheltered route away from the open Atlantic.### Key Navigational Aids- **ICW Markers:** Pay attention to the green and red markers along the ICW. This will keep you within the safe cruising channel. Generally, keep red to your right while heading north.- **Jupiter Island:** While cruising along the ICW, enjoy views of this exclusive enclave.### Hazards to be Aware of- **Shallow Areas:** Keep a close eye on your depth sounder; some areas along the ICW can have depths below 5 feet, especially during low tide.- **Bridge Openings:** There is the Jupiter Bridge and other fixed bridges along the ICW. Make a note of their clearance height, ensuring you have enough vertical clearance unless you plan your trip during scheduled bridge openings.---**Section 3: Possible Stops and Shelters**Weather can change unexpectedly in Florida. If you encounter rough conditions, consider these sheltered bays and inlets along the route:- **Manatee Pocket (Stuart):** A popular anchorage with access to local amenities. Here, you can enjoy waterfront dining or visit the nearby nature reserves. The sheltered waters are a haven during storms.- **Sewall's Point:** This area provides a safe harbor and has a lovely waterfront park for a brief respite.### Additional Points of Interest- **Stuart:** This quaint town features historic homes and a vibrant culinary scene, making it a good place to stop. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Stuart Intracoastal Lighthouse Park.- **Port Salerno:** A charming village with plenty of dining options, offering the catch of the day that visitors rave about.---**Section 4: Arrival at Port St. Lucie**Upon arrival at Port St. Lucie, you’ll find a welcoming community with numerous marinas where you can dock. The area is known for its eco-tourism, so take a moment to explore the nearby nature trails or the picturesque waterfront.### Local Regulations and EtiquetteWhen navigating these waters, be mindful of no-wake zones, particularly near marinas and residential areas. Observe local fishing regulations – if you plan to fish, ensure you have the appropriate licenses and follow the seasonal restrictions.### Safety First:- Ensure all life jackets are accessible and that everyone on board is familiar with emergency procedures.- Always inform someone of your travel plans and estimated return time.- Consider downloading essential boating apps such as **Savvy Navvy**, which offers real-time navigation, tide information, and weather alerts, along with other helpful resources like Navionics and iNavX.---Your journey from Jupiter to Port St. Lucie not only provides a beautiful backdrop of the Florida coastline but also allows for enjoyable, safe navigation through largely sheltered waters. Prepare adequately, keep safety as your priority, and this boating trip could become a cherished memory on the waterways of South Florida. Happy sailing!