**Pilotage Plan: From Key Largo to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida****Route Overview:**The voyage from Key Largo to Ft. Lauderdale covers approximately 60 nautical miles along the stunning coastline of Florida's Atlantic coast. This route is perfect for cruisers looking for a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and safety. It accommodates experienced boaters and those with modest experience, as they will encounter various navigation aids, sheltered bays, and an array of attractions.**Departure from Key Largo, Florida:**As you set out from Key Largo, ensure your vessel is well-prepared, with all essential safety equipment on board—including life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a VHF radio. Before departure, check the weather forecast, tides, and any potential hazards. Key Largo, known for its vibrant marine life, offers some fantastic diving opportunities, including the nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park if you want a quick stop for snorkelling or diving.**Possible Shelters:**- **Florida Bay:** A broad and shallow body of water; a delightful harbor that boasts calm conditions - ideal for weather changes.- **Biscayne Bay:** Along the route, you can navigate into Biscayne Bay for shelter. There are several anchorages in the bays, such as Matheson Hammock Park, which provide safe refuge and amenities if conditions worsen.**Points of Interest Along the Route:**As you cruise along, you may choose to stop at:- **Miami:** An iconic city with vibrant nightlife, cultural hot spots, and stunning waterfront views.- **Haulover Inlet:** Just north of Miami, keep an eye out for the busy boat traffic here as it’s a popular area with beach access and a park.**Navigational Points to Note:**1. **Navigational Aids:** Throughout your voyage, you will encounter a series of buoys and markers. Pay particular attention to the channel markers that guide you through busy areas such as Biscayne Bay.2. **Local Regulations:** Always keep a lookout for no-wake zones, especially in populated areas. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for both safety and marine wildlife preservation.3. **Draft Restrictions:** Some areas have shallower waters; ensure you keep an eye on your draft and avoid the vicinity of the markers indicating shallows.**Approach to Ft. Lauderdale:**As you near Ft. Lauderdale, watch for the numerous bridges and their respective opening schedules. Timing your approach to ensure a smooth passage is vital, as some bridges only open at specific times. The Ft. Lauderdale Intracoastal Waterway is bustling, so staying alert to the large vessels and recreational boats is essential.Beyond the city’s famous beaches, don’t miss the scenic "Venice of America" vibe offered by its canals. As you navigate the final stretches, you will be greeted by the vibrant yacht and boat culture that the city is known for.**Recommended Apps for the Voyage:**To stay safe and informed throughout your journey, consider utilizing boating navigation apps. A must-have is **Savvy Navvy** for its user-friendly charts and real-time tracking capabilities. Additionally, apps like **Navionics**, **Windy**, and **NOAA Weather** can provide helpful insights on weather and navigation.**Final Thoughts:**This journey from Key Largo to Ft. Lauderdale is not only safe but also packed with potential for enjoyment and adventure. With careful planning and attention to the navigational aids, regulations, and possible pitfalls, both beginner and experienced boaters can relish the unique beauty and hospitality of the Florida Coast. Whether it’s calm waters or unforeseen weather, you will find the route both safe and rewarding for a memorable day on the water.