**Pilotage Plan: La Roche Bernard to Nantes****Overview:**Embarking on a boat trip from La Roche Bernard to Nantes offers a blend of scenic beauty, intriguing points of interest, and vibrant maritime culture. This route is ideal for intermediate to advanced boaters who appreciate both the waterways and the surrounding landscape. While the journey is celebrated for its natural beauty and attractions, safety remains paramount, especially when navigating through different waters and conditions.**Route Description:**1. **Departure from La Roche Bernard:** Begin your journey at La Roche Bernard, a charming port town situated at the confluence of the Vilaine River and the Atlantic Ocean. As you depart, you’ll want to ensure you check the tide times, as the Vilaine can be sensitive to tidal changes. The shoreline is lined with picturesque landscapes that capture the pastoral beauty of Brittany. - **Hazard Awareness:** Watch for local fishing boats and the entrance of the river, which can have shifting currents. The marina pontoons at La Roche Bernard provide a perfect spot to refuel and pick up any last-minute provisions.2. **Navigating the Vilaine River:** The initial leg of your passage will take you upstream along the Vilaine River. The scenery here is notable for its rolling green hills and quaint villages, with proper navigational caution due to the narrowness of some stretches. You should stay alert for buoy markers indicating submerged hazards and shallows. - **Notable Landmark:** Look out for the Château de la Roche-Bernard as you navigate your way. Pause momentarily to appreciate its historical significance and scenic backdrop. - **Shelter Opportunity:** If conditions turn inclement, consider anchoring at the Île de Berthé, where you can find good shelter from the winds.3. **Approaching Redon:** Continuing along the Vilaine River, you will soon approach Redon, a lovely town that showcases rich maritime heritage. Here you can stop for a stretch and explore; the canal that connects to the Loire is located nearby. - **Points of Interest:** The Abbey of Saint-Savinien is worth a visit, as it exemplifies the local architectural tradition. 4. **Joining the Nantes-Brest Canal:** After leaving Redon, transition onto the Nantes-Brest Canal. This stretch is characterized by its lush banks and provides a unique inland boating experience. Keep an eye out for floating debris and remember to adhere to the canal speed limits to ensure safety and maintain the tranquility of the area. - **Navigational Aids:** Pay attention to the canal markers and be warned of the lift bridges along your path, where you may need to contact the bridge operators ahead of time for passage.5. **Sports and Leisure Activities:** The canal is ideal for making short stops at various points where you can enjoy cycling or walking trails, revealing more of the enchanting countryside.6. **Arrival at Nantes:** As you approach Nantes, follow the river to the historic port area, known for its striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Nantes is a hub of cultural and historical significance, emphasizing a perfect confluence of tradition and modernity along the Loire River. - **Considerations:** Ensure you respect the local regulations regarding docking and navigation speed as you enter the city. The busy port area requires attentiveness due to cross currents and the presence of larger vessels. - **Final Destination:** The Nantes marina is well-equipped, offering all necessary amenities for boaters, including dining options, fresh markets, and local attractions like the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany.**Safety Recommendations:**- Always check the weather forecast and tide tables before departure.- Maintain a proper lookout for other vessels and floating obstacles.- Keep your safety gear, including life jackets and flares, in good condition and easily accessible.- Use advanced navigation aids like savvy navvy for precise route planning and updates on obstructions.**Conclusion:**This journey from La Roche Bernard to Nantes not only serves as a thrilling maritime exploration but also nourishes the soul. It’s a route crafted for those seeking a balance of adventure and peace, inviting you into the heart of Brittany’s splendid waterways with safety always at the forefront. Enjoy the landscapes, the culture, and the unique experiences this journey has to offer!