**Pilotage Plan: Manteo, NC to Hatteras, NC****Route Overview**This journey from Manteo to Hatteras, traversing the scenic waters of North Carolina's Outer Banks, is an excellent choice for experienced boaters looking to enjoy both natural beauty and local culture while prioritizing safety. The route spans roughly 20 nautical miles, encompassing various navigational challenges, interesting landmarks, and potential anchorages, making it perfect for coastal cruising.**Section 1: Departure from Manteo, NC**Starting at Manteo, you’ll depart from Shallowbag Bay. Here, be mindful of the shoaling waters; it is crucial to maintain your marked channel. Manteo is a delightful town with interesting attractions, such as the Roanoke Island Festival Park and the Elizabethan Gardens, should you want to enjoy a bit of local exploration before setting sail.As you head southeast, keep an eye on the navigational aids such as buoys located along Roanoke Sound. Observe the green and red markers as they guide you through the well-charted waterways. **Section 2: Navigating Roanoke Sound**Once you enter Roanoke Sound, the waterway opens up, providing a comfortable cruising experience. Watch for local fishing vessels, especially during early hours when they are most active. Roanoke Sound is relatively well-protected, and if the weather situation turns unfavorable, there are a few spots along the shores to consider taking shelter, including:- **Whale Head Bay**: A fine cove for temporary anchorage, equipped with good holding ground. - **North Creek**: This is another excellent spot, aptly sheltered and perfect if winds pick up unexpectedly.As you cruise along you'll also want to be aware of the shallow areas toward the edges of the sound. Refer to your navigation charts to avoid misadventures.**Section 3: Entering the Hatteras Inlet**Approaching Hatteras, you'll navigate around the entrance of Hatteras Inlet. The inlet can be challenging due to swift currents, particularly during tide changes, so ensure you check the tide tables ahead of time and plan your passage according to them. Make sure to look out for the prominent Cape Hatteras Lighthouse as you draw nearer; it's a striking landmark and a great reference point for both navigation and photo opportunities. **Section 4: Arrival at Hatteras, NC**Upon arrival at Hatteras, the serenity of the area is striking. The Hatteras marina offers amenities like fueling, provisions, and weather updates. Hatteras is not only a gateway for anglers but a seaside community filled with restaurants and local shops.Bays nearby also offer excellent options for sheltered anchorage should you need to hold up due to inclement weather. Some notable places include:- **Hatteras Harbor**: A busy harbor with safe docking options.- **Ocracoke Inlet**: If you’re up for a little detour, this inlet is known for its breathtaking beauty and is a haven for boaters.**Safety Considerations**Safety should always be your first priority while boating. Ensure all safety equipment and communication devices are in functioning order, including life jackets, flares, and a reliable VHF radio. Local regulations regarding fishing licenses should always be adhered to, particularly in protected waters. Ensure that you are aware of restricted zones, particularly around Hatteras, where maritime wildlife may be protected.**Recommended Apps**To aid your navigation and enhance your experience along this route, consider utilizing boating apps that provide real-time charts and data. Savvy Navvy is highly recommended for its intuitive interface, as well as other popular apps like Navionics and MarineTraffic for tracking vessels and weather.This route will not only offer you a chance to experience the maritime beauty of the Outer Banks but is also designed with safety as a priority, making it suitable for both seasoned sailors and cruising enthusiasts alike. Enjoy your adventure!