### Pilotage Plan: Marco Island, Florida to Captiva, Florida#### OverviewThis journey from Marco Island to Captiva is an exciting and scenic trip well-suited for experienced boaters seeking to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Southwest Florida while remaining vigilant about safety and navigation. The route spans approximately 22 nautical miles, making it suitable for a day trip. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful islands, wildlife sanctuaries, stunning beaches, and inviting bays that provide excellent shelter if weather conditions turn unfavorable.#### Departure: Marco IslandStarting from Marco Island, you can enjoy facilities at local marinas for fill-ups and provisions. Make sure to check the tide charts before departure, as the waters can vary significantly depending on tidal conditions, especially around the Marco River.1. **Preparation & Safety**: - Ensure you have life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and all required safety equipment per Florida regulations. - Verify buoy placements in the area, as they can shift; consult the latest navigational charts. - Use the "savvy navvy" app for real-time updates on weather conditions and navigational aids.#### The Route- **Head northwest from Marco River**: Once you clear the residential areas and commercial docks, maintain an eye on your plotter or GPS and follow the channel markers out of the Marco River.2. **Navigational Aids**: - Pay careful attention to marker "6" and "8" which lead you into the Gulf of Mexico. - Watch for local fishing boats; the area is popular for both recreational and commercial fishermen.3. **Kice Island**: - As you approach the western side of Kice Island, it’s a great spot for a brief stop. The waters are shallow, so proceed with caution. The beaches are pristine and offer a relaxing atmosphere. - Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the bird-watching potential here, especially during migration seasons.4. **Hurricane Pass**: - After Kice Island, you will navigate through Hurricane Pass. This is a significant narrow channel that links the Gulf with Estero Bay. Adhere to the posted speed limits and be cautious of tides which can create challenging currents here.5. **Estero Bay**: - Once inside Estero Bay, enjoy navigational opportunities and head towards the northern part of the bay. - There are several marinas and public docks where you can stop for dining or refreshments. Naples is just a detour away; it harbors great restaurants and charming shops.#### Notable Points of Interest:- **Lovers Key State Park**: - Just a few miles from your route, this park offers great spots for a picnic and exploring nature trails. It’s a fantastic place to stretch your legs and soak in the natural beauty of Florida’s subtropical landscape.- **Big Carlos Pass**: - As you approach the area, ensure that you identify the navigation signs carefully. The pass can be busy with boats. Consider anchoring if you wish to explore the nearby beaches and marine life.#### Arrival at Captiva Island:- **Entering Captiva Pass**: - Transitioning into Captiva, monitor your depth and course closely. Approaching Captiva Island, you’ll find a myriad of shallow areas—maintain a lookout for buoys marking channels. - The pass itself can sometimes be crowded during peak seasons; patience and vigilance are key.- **Points of Interest and Activities**: - As you arrive, Captiva Island welcomes you with gorgeous confines featuring sandy beaches and wildlife. It's famous for shelling—make sure to bring a bag! - Visit local restaurants that boast fresh seafood and return to Marco Island after a well-deserved meal.#### Weather and Shelter:- **Recommended Shelters**: - Should the weather change, both Kice Island and several inlets along Estero Bay serve well as sheltered anchorages. - The waters around these areas provide a safe spot against sudden squalls that can occur in the afternoon during summer months.### ConclusionThis route from Marco Island to Captiva combines stunning scenery, vibrant wildlife, and opportunities for adventure while prioritizing safety and navigational awareness. Ensure to prepare accordingly, respect the local environment and regulations, and enjoy your maritime experience. Whether you're an experienced boater or someone looking for a picturesque day on the water, the journey promises to be fulfilling and safe, evoking the beauty of Southwest Florida as you cruise along.