### Pilotage Plan from Lantana, Florida to West Palm Beach, Florida#### OverviewThis cruising itinerary takes you from Lantana to West Palm Beach, navigating through scenic coastal waters while adhering to safety considerations. The route is particularly suitable for seasoned leisure boaters looking to enjoy a day on the water, complete with the option of shelter from changing weather conditions and opportunities for stopping at engaging points of interest along the way.---#### Starting Point: Lantana, Florida - **Coordinates:** Longitude -80.04745, Latitude 26.5825667**Leaving Lantana:**As you depart from the quaint marina at Lantana, keep an eye out for local fishermen casting their lines. The Lantana Nature Preserve is a great spot to observe wildlife and enjoy the serene environment before setting out. #### Route OverviewThe journey stretches approximately 5 miles south along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), a well-protected and scenic route ideal for recreational boating.---### Navigational Considerations**1. Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)** Following the ICW ensures a safe and navigable path. Be mindful of the tidal currents, especially near inlets, and adjust your speed to maintain control. It's advisable to consult local tide tables to understand the water levels along the route.**2. Key Navigational Aids** - **Channel Markers:** Ensure your navigational charts are updated, and pay close attention to the green and red channel markers that indicate safe passage. Marker 29 is particularly notable as it signifies the entrance to the nearby Lake Worth Inlet.- **Buoys:** Look for seasonal buoys that highlight changes in channel depth or potential hazards.**3. Local Regulations** - **Speed Limits:** Be aware of posted speed limits, particularly in areas with residential properties and wildlife. The ICW typically has a limit of 6 knots unless otherwise marked. - **No Wake Zones:** Navigate slowly in these zones, which are crucial for protecting the shoreline and wildlife habitats.---### Points of Interest Along the Route**1. Lake Worth Lagoon** As you progress, you may want to take a quick detour into Lake Worth Lagoon. This area is rich with marine life and is perfect for a bit of kayaking or paddleboarding. The lagoon can provide a great area to anchor if the weather turns and you need a safe place to wait it out.**2. Peanut Island** Approximately halfway to West Palm Beach lies Peanut Island, a popular destination packed with facilities for day-trippers. You can drop anchor here to explore the beach, snorkel the waters, or enjoy a picnic. The island is historically significant, having been a Cold War bunker and now offers walking paths for a pleasant stroll.---### Shelter OpportunitiesIf the weather takes a turn for the worse, both Lake Worth Lagoon and the facilities around Peanut Island provide shelter. Additionally, the West Palm Beach waterfront is an excellent option if you need to tie up and wait it out. ---### Final Destination: West Palm Beach, Florida- **Coordinates:** Longitude -80.048393, Latitude 26.7113196As you approach West Palm Beach, take in the stunning skyline and the famous waterfront attractions. West Palm Beach is a bustling area with numerous marinas catering to transient boaters, offering easy access to beaches and dining.#### Safety Tips- Always check the local weather forecast before departure. A sudden storm can appear in these waters, so give yourself ample time to reach shelter.- Don’t forget your Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and ensure they are easily accessible for everyone on board.- It’s beneficial to have a reliable navigation app like Savvy Navvy installed on your devices for real-time information and marine navigation support.---### ConclusionThis beautiful stretch of water invites you to navigate safely while indulging in some exceptional coastal sights. The accessibility of natural interference points, local attractions, and sheltering bays makes this a well-rounded journey for the leisurely boater. Embrace the experience and enjoy every moment on this delightful trip from Lantana to the vibrant West Palm Beach.