**Pilotage Plan: Longboat Key to Bradenton****Introduction:**Setting off from Longboat Key, Florida, you're about to embark on a delightful coastal cruise that offers both stunning views and the opportunity to discover local charm. This route is particularly well-suited for recreational cruisers and weekend adventurers. It’s a short and manageable distance – approximately 8 nautical miles, making it a perfect trip for families or less experienced boaters looking for a quick escape into nature and local attractions.**Route Overview:**Your journey will take you through a combination of protected inland waters and scenic coastal views. The trip will traverse Sarasota Bay, allowing you to enjoy beautiful waterways, and offers various locations to seek shelter should the weather become inclement.**Step 1: Departure from Longboat Key**Begin your voyage from Longboat Key's northern end. Ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, a first-aid kit, and communication devices. As you untie from the dock, note that the surrounding waters can be turbulent, so consult local weather conditions using apps like Savvy Navvy, which provides real-time weather updates and navigational information.**Step 2: Navigational Aids and Hazards**As you head south, it is crucial to keep an eye on navigational aids. Look for markers indicating safe channels. The waters along this route can have shifting sandbars, particularly close to the entrance of Florida's coastal inlets, so ensure you're navigating within the marked channels. Pay special attention to the "LB" (Longboat) and "BR" (Bradenton) markers, as these will guide your approach.**Step 3: Points of Interest and Potential Stopping Points**1. **Sarasota Bay**: As you cruise south, you’ll enter the tranquil waters of Sarasota Bay. This bay provides ample opportunities for relaxing stops. Consider anchoring near Bird Key Park to enjoy a picnic or go for a swim. The park’s lush surroundings offer a great spot to stretch your legs and appreciate the coastal flora. 2. **Renowned Landmarks**: As you navigate, keep an eye out for the beautiful mansions lining the waterfront, including some notable sites like the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. This can be an interesting detour if you choose to anchor and visit the aquarium.3. **Sheltering Bays**: If the weather worsens or the wind picks up, there are several bays where you can seek refuge. One such excellent shelter is in Palma Sola Bay, located directly east of your route. With its broad and relatively calm waters, it’s an ideal spot to ride out any storms.**Step 4: Approaching Bradenton**As you near the end of your journey, the waters will begin to narrow, and you will start to see the landmarks of Bradenton emerging. Be vigilant of local boat traffic, especially around the Manatee River entrance and the Bradenton Marina area, where there can be large boats navigating.**Step 5: Local Regulations and Safety Considerations**While cruising, adhere to local speed limits (typically 30 mph for motorboats) and keep a safe distance from smaller vessels and personal watercraft. Always inspect local signage for any fishing or wildlife preserves area warnings. Note that certain sections may have no-wake zones to protect fragile ecosystems. **Conclusion:**This trip from Longboat Key to Bradenton is an enjoyable blend of natural beauty and local adventure, perfect for boaters of all experience levels. With proper attention to safety, navigation, and awareness of your surroundings, you’ll create memorable moments on the water. Don't forget to take advantage of technology through apps like Savvy Navvy for safe navigation. Enjoy your journey, and may the winds be at your back!