**Pilotage Plan from Mackinac Island, MI to St. Ignace, MI****Route Overview** This route between Mackinac Island and St. Ignace is a scenic and manageable journey for boaters, particularly those with modest cruising experience. The passage is short, only about 4 nautical miles across the Straits of Mackinac, making it ideal for a day trip or even a leisurely afternoon sail. As you navigate from the historic charm of Mackinac Island to the mainland, you will encounter beautiful waters, informative navigational aids, and places to explore along the way.**Points of Interest** - **Mackinac Island**: Before departing Mackinac Island, take a moment to enjoy the island’s quaint shops, historic sites, and stunning views of Lake Huron from Fort Mackinac. Don’t miss the iconic Grand Hotel, which is a mere stroll away. - **Round Island**: Just to the east as you head towards St. Ignace, this small island is notable for its lighthouse and is a great spot for photos. The surrounding waters offer smooth sailing and fascinating wildlife, including swans and other birds.- **St. Ignace**: Your destination offers a welcoming marina and is a gateway to many natural wonders. Visitors can explore the nearby Hiawatha National Forest or take a ferry to Mackinac Island for a second adventure. St. Ignace also features historical attractions, such as the Indian Museum of North America and the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.**Sheltering Bays** If the weather should unexpectedly deteriorate, there are a few nearby bays that provide safe haven:- **Brevoort Lake**: Nestled further to the west, Brevoort Lake offers safe anchorages with good holding grounds, should you need to take cover from bad weather.- **St. Ignace Marina**: On your arrival at St. Ignace, the marina is well-equipped for transient boats and offers shelter from both waves and wind.**Navigational Aids and Considerations** As you make your way across the straits, watch for important navigational aids:- **Navigational Buoys**: Follow the marked channels; buoys are color-coded, with red on the right when returning from sea. Keep to the right side of the buoys while heading to St. Ignace.- **Lighthouses**: Pay attention to the Round Island Lighthouse while navigating; it serves as a visual waypoint. Be mindful of:- **Local regulations**: This area may have specific rules regarding fishing and speed limits in certain zones, especially near the shorelines and through the marina.- **Weather conditions**: The weather can change unexpectedly. Ensure that you monitor forecasts leading up to and during your trip, and always have a backup plan to return to Mackinac Island if necessary.**Safety Equipment** Before setting out, ensure you have all necessary safety equipment onboard:- Life jackets for all passengers.- A first-aid kit.- Flares and a fire extinguisher.- A reliable means of communication, such as a VHF radio.**Recommended Apps** To enhance your navigation experience, consider using these boating apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: This app provides detailed mapping and navigation features, helping you stay on course.- **Navionics**: Excellent for checking and downloading updated nautical charts.- **Windy**: A great tool for tracking weather patterns, tides, and wind forecasts.This boating trip from Mackinac Island to St. Ignace is not just a means of transportation; it’s an opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the Straits of Mackinac while prioritizing safety. With historic sites, potential shelter bays, and a variety of recreational activities, it will surely be a memorable adventure for any boater.