**Pilotage Plan: Littlehampton to Hayling Island****Departure Point: Littlehampton, West Sussex, England**Starting your journey from Littlehampton, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque harbour, you'll want to be prepared as you set sail. In good weather, the route to Hayling Island is not only beautiful but offers a unique blend of safe navigation and notable sights to enjoy along the way. As a sailor, you will appreciate the balance of safety and exploration that this trip provides, making it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters alike.**Safety Considerations:**Before setting out, always check the local weather conditions; the English Channel can be deceptive, and weather can change rapidly. Pay attention to tides and currents, especially in the approaches to both Littlehampton and Hayling Island. It's advisable to review local charts, including tidal information, and to have updated navigation tools ready. Apps like Savvy Navvy, Navionics, or C-MAP can be invaluable companions on your journey, providing digital charts closely packed with helpful information.**Points of Interest Along the Route:**1. **Littlehampton Harbour:** Before you cast off, take a moment to enjoy the promenade, the iconic lighthouse, and perhaps grab a bite at one of the local cafes. The harbour itself offers some protection and is an excellent point to review your route prior to leaving.2. **Climping Beach:** A short distance west of Littlehampton, Climping Beach provides a lovely scenic view of the coast. If time allows, a quick stop could reward you with stunning coastal scenery and a stretch of open beach.3. **The Selsey Bill:** As you approach the Selsey area to the south, the well-known Selsey Bill can be seen. This landmark is not only a significant navigational mark, but it's surrounded by interesting bird life and marine activity, making it a good spot for wildlife watchers.4. **Pagham Harbour:** Located to the west of your route, this nature reserve can be a delightful detour. Though not directly on your way, it's an excellent shelter from adverse weather if needed, with beautiful landscapes and birdwatching opportunities.**Significant Navigational Features:**- **Navigational Buoys:** Ensure you keep a safe distance from navigational aids in the water, especially the buoys marking the entrance to Littlehampton. These should be adhered to at all times as they guide you safely through busy shipping routes.- **No entry zones:** Familiarize yourself with any restricted areas or no-entry zones such as the commercial shipping lanes leading further along the coast, as well as potential fisheries zones to protect marine life.- **Crossing the Harbour Mouth:** Pay special attention when exiting Littlehampton Harbour. The sandbanks can shift, and the entrance can get tricky. Ensure your vessel is fully on plane before crossing the bar, adjusting for the tide as necessary.**Weather Shelters:**- **Bosham Channel:** If conditions deteriorate, the Bosham Channel can offer a haven. Though it adds some distance to your journey, the shallow waters provide a safe haven even during a blow.- **Langstone Harbour:** As you near Hayling Island, Langstone Harbour presents excellent sheltering opportunities should weather conditions turn adverse. It is well known amongst local sailors as a spot where you can find calm waters even when the Channel is rough.**Arriving at Hayling Island:**Upon arrival at Hayling Island, you'll be greeted by its lovely beaches and local attractions. The Hayling Island Seaside Railway and the nature reserves across the island should not be missed, providing both relaxation and exploration options. This route provides boaters an excellent opportunity to navigate through delightful coastal scenery while ensuring safety remains paramount. The sheltered waters along your journey complement the natural beauty, making it a perfect sailing trip for recreational sailors seeking both adventure and a sense of tranquility. As you prepare to embark on your journey, remember to stay alert and embrace the spirit of adventure—after all, this is what boating is all about! Safe sailing!