**Pilotage Plan: Madeira Beach, FL to Clearwater Beach, FL****Starting Point: Madeira Beach, Florida (27.8105, -82.7963)** **Ending Point: Clearwater Beach, Florida (27.9678, -82.8214)**---**Overview:**This short and picturesque journey from Madeira Beach to Clearwater Beach is perfect for both experienced and novice boaters alike. The route covers approximately 7 nautical miles and offers sheltered bays, stunning coastal views, and a chance to explore some vibrant local attractions along the way. The trip can be completed in a few hours depending on your speed, making it a fantastic option for day cruising.---**Route Description:**1. **Departure from Madeira Beach:** Start your trip at John’s Pass, a popular navigational point and a bustling area filled with shops and restaurants. As you leave Madeira Beach, be mindful of the traffic in the pass, particularly with kayakers and paddleboarders often sharing the water.2. **Navigating Johns Pass:** Follow the marked channel as you exit John’s Pass. You'll see several local fishing boats and pleasure crafts here, making for a lively start. Keep an eye out for navigation aids such as buoys and markers. The waters can be shallow, so maintain a vigilant lookout, especially as the tide changes.3. **Heading North:** After the pass, head north along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Watch for the various marks indicating safe channels; be sure to keep within the buoyed areas to avoid shallow waters.4. **Shelter Points:** The waters along this stretch are generally welcoming for cruising, but if the weather begins to turn, you might seek shelter at: - **Blind Pass**: Located to your port side as you travel, it provides a protected bay for refuge. - **Caladesi Island State Park**: Further along, the island offers excellent anchorage options and a chance to explore unspoiled nature trails. It’s a beautiful spot to take a break, swim, or have a picnic. 5. **Points of Interest:** As you cruise along, you may want to slow down to take in the sights: - **Sand Key Park**: A great spot for a beach stop, this park features beautiful sandy shores and a tranquil environment. - **Honeymoon Island State Park**: Though a bit out of the direct route, it's worth the detour for its natural beauty and well-kept beaches.6. **Approaching Clearwater Beach:** As you draw near to Clearwater Beach, you'll see the iconic Clearwater Memorial Causeway and the new Clearwater Marina. Be aware of the channel’s entrance — it can get busy around this time of day, so maintain a moderate speed and watch for smaller vessels.---**Navigational Considerations:**- **Aids to Navigation:** Pay attention to navigation lights, especially as you approach nightfall, and ensure your vessel is equipped with proper charts and technology to track the buoys and markers.- **Local Regulations:** While on the ICW, adhere to the no-wake zones, particularly near residential areas and parks. Respect all local fishing regulations, and be cautious of wildlife, especially during their active hours when boats may quietly glide by.- **Weather Monitoring:** Always check local weather forecasts before departure, as conditions can change rapidly in Florida. Apps like Savvy Navvy, along with local weather reporting apps, can help keep you updated.---**Conclusion:**This route is a splendid choice for boaters seeking a mix of safety, ease of navigation, and the opportunity to engage with Florida’s stunning coastal scenery. As you plan this delightful outing, remember to ensure your vessel is well-stocked with safety gear, and take the time to enjoy the myriad of sights and sounds along the way. From the lively atmosphere of Madeira Beach to the more serene Clearwater Beach, your journey will be both fulfilling and memorable. Safe sailing!