**Pilotage Plan: Kiel, DE to Großenbrode, DE****Route Overview:**Embarking on a boat trip from Kiel to Großenbrode is an excellent choice for boater enthusiasts seeking both safety and adventure. This route is characterized by calm waters, navigable channels, and breathtaking scenery along the western shores of the Baltic Sea. It is particularly suitable for coastal cruisers and those comfortable with navigating busy shipping lanes, as well as for families looking for a memorable outing.**Departure: Kiel, DE**Start your journey in Kiel, a vibrant maritime city known for its bustling harbor and shipbuilding heritage. Before setting off, ensure that your vessel is well-equipped with necessary safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit. Familiarize yourself not only with your vessel's equipment but also check the weather forecast and tides, as conditions can change rapidly.**Navigational Aids:**1. **Kiel Canal Entrance (Brunsbüttel Lock):** When departing Kiel, be mindful of the busy shipping traffic in the Kiel Canal. Follow the navigational markers and calls from the traffic control.2. **GPS and Chart Plotters:** Use a reliable GPS unit and nautical charts, ideally with updated information. The region is well-studied, so navigation tools should have accurate waypoint information.**Leg 1: Kiel to Kreuzfeld**Your first segment will take you northeast across the Firth of Kiel, which is approximately 6 nautical miles. Pay attention to the following:- **Navigational Beacons:** Look out for the fixed and lighted buoys marking the entrance to the fjord. Stick to the marked channels to avoid running aground, especially in shallower areas.- **Caution Points:** Watch for ferries operating in this area, as they navigate with considerable speed and often have the right of way.As you reach Kreuzfeld, consider it an opportune moment to stop for a break. The small bay offers a sheltered environment should the weather take a turn. While you’re here, there are picnic spots overlooking the water, providing a great area for leisure.**Leg 2: Kreuzfeld to Laboe**Continuing your journey, set a course for Laboe, located about 4 nautical miles from Kreuzfeld. This leg provides stunning shoreline views of sandy beaches and lush coastal forests.- **Laboe Naval Memorial:** As you approach Laboe, consider a brief stop to visit the impressive Naval Memorial and its accompanying museum, a historical site that tells the story of Germany's navy.**Shelter Spot:** Laboe Bay offers good shelter from strong winds and is popular with boats seeking refuge. There are also amenities, including restaurants and shops.**Leg 3: Laboe to Heiligenhafen**From Laboe, guide your vessel towards Heiligenhafen, which is approximately 12 nautical miles further. The sailing here is predominantly straightforward, but keep vigilance.- **Navigation Considerations:** You will head into broader waters where wind conditions might vary. Expect additional boat traffic, especially from leisure craft and local fishermen, so stay alert.- **Heiligenhafen Harbor:** This is an excellent point to visit as it provides excellent berthing facilities and services for boaters. Utilize the harbor if weather conditions change unexpectedly.**Final Leg: Heiligenhafen to Großenbrode**The final stretch is about 7 nautical miles, taking you directly into Großenbrode. This area is known for its pristine beaches and ample recreation opportunities.- **Navigational Beacons:** Work your way through the marked channels leading to Großenbrode, ensuring to follow lights and buoys laid out for safe passage.- **Points of Interest:** Großenbrode provides beautiful strolls along the waterfront and opportunities for fishing or swimming. Don't forget to try some local seafood at one of the restaurants nearby.**Weather Contingencies and Safety:** As you head toward Großenbrode, it is vital to remain vigilant for changing weather patterns. If rough weather is anticipated:1. Reassess your route and consider returning to Laboe or Heiligenhafen for shelter.2. Check for local harbor rules, as some may have restrictions on anchoring or mooring in certain conditions.**Regulations and Local Knowledge:**Always adhere to local maritime laws, including speed limits in designated zones, and remember to listen for navigational hails or updates on marine radio channels. Ensure that you have a plan for communication while at sea and consider having a reliable navigation app, like Savvy Navvy, on board. It provides real-time data on weather, tides, and navigation which can be essential for safe cruising.**Conclusion:**This route from Kiel to Großenbrode not only leads through scenic coastal landscapes but also offers various opportunities for fun and relaxation along the way, while prioritizing safety above all. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice, this trip can be both exhilarating and safe, with ample shelters and points of interest to make the journey memorable. Happy sailing!