LaCrosse to Winona by boat

Pilotage Plan: LaCrosse, WI to Winona, MN

Route OverviewThis exciting journey along the Mississippi River takes you from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, to Winona, Minnesota. Covering approximately 30 nautical miles, this route is perfect for recreational boaters and offers a mix of scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and ample opportunities for exploration. This is suitable for both novice and experienced boaters, focusing on safety while also allowing for enjoyable stops along the way.

Departure: LaCrosse, WIYou’ll start your trip in the vibrant community of LaCrosse. Before you set sail, ensure you've checked the weather conditions—typical Midwest weather can change rapidly. LaCrosse has docking facilities and supply stores to prepare for your journey.

Section 1: LaCrosse to Fountain City (Approx. 16 NM)As you depart LaCrosse, navigate carefully through the narrow channels of the river. Watch for navigational aids such as buoys marking the shipping channel. Keep an eye out for the historic architecture that lines the shores, particularly the grand Victorian homes in LaCrosse.

Once you've cleared the LaCrosse area, you’ll head towards Fountain City. Along this stretch, the scenic bluffs rise dramatically, making this a very picturesque portion of the journey. Should weather conditions deteriorate or if you need to rest, Fountain City offers several sheltered bays and marinas where you can dock.

Points of Interest:

• Grandad Bluff: Just a short detour from the river, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the river and city backdrop.
• Fountain City Marina: A great spot for refueling and taking a rest on land. Explore local cuisine and enjoy some charming shops.

Section 2: Fountain City to Winona, MN (Approx. 14 NM)From Fountain City, you'll cruise further up the river toward Winona. As you approach, be wary of the narrowing river as you enter Winona, which necessitates being extra cautious about speed and wake to avoid affecting smaller crafts or the environment.

Navigational Considerations:

• Pay attention to the Mississippi River Navigation Charts and local regulations regarding speed limits and no-wake zones as you approach Winona.
• Note that there are frequent commercial vessels in this stretch. Maintain a safe distance and keep communication channels open—VHF radio is essential for this.

Shelter Opportunities:If weather changes happen unexpectedly, you may want to consider pulling into Winona’s harbor, which is well-equipped and provides makeshift shelter from bad weather.

Points of Interest in Winona:

• Lake Park: This area along the river is great for a picnic and features stunning views.
• Winona’s Historic District: Check out the great architecture and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum for a bit of culture.

Safety Tips:1. Always wear life jackets and have a personal flotation device available for each passenger.2. Check for updates on river conditions—current flows can influence your travel.3. Ensure your communication devices are charged and functioning (VHF radio is vital).4. Keep an eye on weather forecasts both before departure and during your journey.

Recommended Boating Apps:While there are many great apps for navigation, I highly recommend using Savvy Navvy for route planning and ease of access to navigational charts. Other useful apps could include Navionics for navigational charts and BoatUS for additional weather and safety information.

This trip promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and safe exploration tailored for both the thrill-seeker and the safety-conscious boater. You will not only enjoy the tranquility of the waters, but also find great joy in the small towns and landmarks that punctuate your journey. Happy boating!