**Pilotage Plan: Melbourne, Florida to Jensen Beach, Florida**### OverviewThis route stretches approximately 40 nautical miles, primarily through the scenic inland waterways of Florida's east coast. It's ideally suited for recreational boaters and families looking for a mix of natural beauty, safety, and interesting stops along the way. Although seasoned sailors will find it straightforward, newer boaters will appreciate the sheltered waters and clear navigational aids that populate this route.### Departure: Melbourne, FloridaStarting your journey at Melbourne adds allure with its vibrant waterfront filled with amenities. Before you set sail, ensure all your safety gear is in top shape, including life jackets, flares, a fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit.#### Navigational Considerations- **Melbourne Harbor (N 28° 07.406', W 80° 37.764')**: As you leave the harbor, keep an eye on your depth sounder and stay within the marked channel to avoid shallow areas.- **Navigational Aids**: Be aware of navigational markers along the banks of the Indian River Lagoon. Key markers to take note of are the maidens, which navigate you past the fishing docks and recreational areas.### En Route: Notable Points of Interest1. **Sebastian Inlet**: About 15 nautical miles south from Melbourne, Sebastian Inlet State Park offers a great opportunity to stop for a short hike or a picnic. It’s popular for fishing, but also serves as an ideal shelter in case of rough weather.2. **Grant-Valkaria**: Approximately 5 nautical miles out of your way, the quiet waters around Grant provide an excellent stopover with minimal traffic and incredible views of the Indian River. Local wildlife sightings here, especially manatees, can be a highlight.3. **Vero Beach (N 27° 37.931', W 80° 22.361')**: As you proceed south, Vero Beach is a hotspot for boaters. Its waterfront parks and dining options make it a perfect layover if you choose to spend the day exploring. ### Approach to Jensen BeachThe final stretch into Jensen Beach is straightforward. The Indian River widens as you near the St. Lucie River. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including dolphins and a variety of birds.#### Navigational Considerations- **St. Lucie Inlet**: Stay within the marked shipping lanes when you approach this inlet. The currents can be strong, so maintaining steady navigation aids, like familiarizing yourself with your compass headings, is crucial.- **Charts and Aids**: Utilize marine charts to monitor navigation buoys, especially near Jensen Beach where boating traffic can be heavy with both commercial and recreational vessels.### Safety Considerations- **Weather**: Always check the local weather conditions before your trip and consider utilizing an app like Savvy Navvy which provides accurate weather forecasts specific to maritime navigation.- **Local Regulations**: Adhere to no-wake zones when entering residential areas and be cautious of wake when approaching commercial docks. Keep an eye on any temporary restrictions or amendments provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.### Arrival: Jensen Beach, FloridaArriving in Jensen Beach, you’ll find yourself immersed in its beachside charm and vibrant community atmosphere. The Indian River Lagoon hosts numerous marine life and is perfect for fishing or water sports.### ConclusionThis journey from Melbourne to Jensen Beach is a fulfilling blend of safety, leisure, and discovery. It perfectly accommodates families and casual boaters with the various sheltered bays and activity stops along the route. Always prioritize navigation and safety while also embracing the adventures that await along Florida’s beautiful coastline. Happy sailing!