### Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from La Spezia, SP, IT to Rapallo, GE, IT ---#### OverviewThis beautiful journey along the Ligurian coast offers a mix of stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns, and safe harbors. This route is particularly well-suited for sailing enthusiasts looking for a day cruise or a leisurely multi-day sail in a well-equipped cruising yacht. The picturesque coastline can be challenging due to currents and occasional changing weather, making careful planning essential.---#### Route Description**Starting Point: La Spezia, SP, IT**- **Coordinates:** 9.8312, 44.0994- La Spezia is a vibrant starting point with access to numerous amenities. Before departure, check the local weather forecast as conditions can change quickly.**Course Setting:**1. Head north from La Spezia, navigating towards the Gulf of Poets (Golfo dei Poeti), which is a stunning highland coastal area offering diverse sailing experiences.2. As you sail northwest from La Spezia, keep an eye out for navigational aids such as the La Spezia Lighthouse (Faro di La Spezia), which provides a significant point for your bearings.**Points of Interest:**- **Portovenere:** Approximately 7 nautical miles from La Spezia, this charming village, famed for its colorful waterfront and historical architecture, is a great stop for provisions or a meal. Its bay offers a sheltered cove should the weather turn.- **Cinque Terre National Park:** As you continue along the coast, you will pass near the renowned Cinque Terre. Although not a direct stop, the visual splendor of this area, with its five fishing villages nestled against steep cliffs, is a sight you won’t want to miss. Keep a safe distance from the shores, as it can be crowded with ferry traffic.3. Continuing northwest, you should steer towards the Lerici, another picturesque town known for its medieval castle. The harbor here provides good shelter if conditions worsen.4. After Lerici, navigate towards **Tellaro** and follow the coastline until you reach the **Forte dei Marmi** area. Approximately 15 nautical miles out from Lerici, this area offers excellent opportunities for stopping to explore the sandy beaches or grab a meal.5. As you approach the busy commercial area near **Carrara**, ensure to avoid any commercial shipping lanes. The anchorage here is not recommended due to heavy traffic.**Important Navigational Aids**:- **Cabo di Fegina Lighthouse:** Just before entering the town of Monterosso, aid your navigation with this prominent landmark.- **Punta Corvo:** A handy landmark that signals your approach to the Gulf of La Spezia. Its distinctive rock formation makes it easily recognizable.6. From here, head straight towards **Rapallo**, GE. It’s advisable to keep a close watch on your navigation charts as you’ll pass close to the Portofino promontory, an area known for currents and its natural beauty.**Ending Point: Rapallo, GE, IT**- **Coordinates:** 9.2293, 44.3452- Upon arrival, the Port of Rapallo offers well-kept moorings and various marinas for all sizes of vessels. The local shops and restaurants alongside the waterfront are inviting and perfect for post-sailing relaxation.---#### Shelters and Safety Considerations- **Bays for Shelter:** The Gulf of Poets and Lerici provide excellent shelter if unforeseen weather conditions arise. Always consult your weather apps or alerts to track incoming weather. - **Local Restrictions:** Be mindful of no-wake zones in populated areas and adhere to any navigational restrictions set by local authorities. The Cinque Terre National Park is also a protected area—check for any rules on stopping to protect this sensitive environment.---#### Apps and ToolsTo stay safe while navigating this stunning stretch of coastline, consider using the following boating apps:1. **Savvy Navvy** - An excellent navigation tool that provides up-to-date charts and route planning.2. **Navionics** - For detailed chart plotting and updates on tides and currents.3. **Weather Routing Apps** - Essential for keeping an eye on changing weather conditions.---This route seamlessly blends safety with the allure of exploring some of Liguria’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. With a blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and safe harbors, this journey from La Spezia to Rapallo is both an adventure and a serene getaway for any boater. Always remember to prioritize safety, monitor your surroundings, and enjoy the delightful allure of the Italian coast!