### Pilotage Plan: Melbourne, Florida to Port Saint Lucie, Florida**Route Overview** This maritime journey takes you southward from Melbourne, Florida, to Port Saint Lucie, Florida. It’s a captivating cruise along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), ensuring a delightful balance of safety, scenic views, and opportunities for exploration. This route is particularly suitable for day boaters and recreational cruisers, as it generally provides calm waters and well-marked navigation aids. **Starting Point: Melbourne, Florida** Starting your journey in Melbourne, you’ll find yourself positioned in a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, charming port, and excellent boating amenities. Before departing, ensure you have checked the weather forecast and tide charts to plan the best departure time.**Leg 1: Melbourne to Sebastian Inlet** As you leave Melbourne, head south along the Indian River Lagoon. Keep a lookout for navigation aids such as red and green channel markers. The first notable landmark you will encounter is the Eau Gallie Causeway Bridge. Make sure to note the bridge height clearance as you pass below. The next stop could be **Sebastian Inlet State Park**, famous for its picturesque beaches and excellent fishing. This is a perfect place to take refuge if the weather turns, as the inlet offers good shelter. Along the way, watch for wildlife in the lagoon, including dolphins and manatees, adding to the uniqueness of your journey. **Leg 2: Sebastian Inlet to Fort Pierce** Continuing south, the waters become more tranquil as you approach Fort Pierce Inlet. Pay attention as you pass through the inlet; the currents can be strong, so remain vigilant especially if the tide is incoming or outgoing. Fort Pierce is an excellent stop for fresh seafood and offers safe harboring options. The waterfront area features a vibrant arts scene and local attractions, such as the Fort Pierce Marina, where you can refuel and provision. **Leg 3: Fort Pierce to Port Saint Lucie** Leaving Fort Pierce, you will now make your way towards Port Saint Lucie by following the ICW. This stretch is characterized by beautiful waterfront homes and lush flora along the banks. Be cautious when navigating past the **St. Lucie River**, as it merges into the ICW. If you’re looking for an unscheduled stop, consider visiting the **Savannas Preserve State Park**. Here you can enjoy kayaking and nature trails. Ensure you stay within the designated channels to avoid shallow grounds on either side.**Navigational aids and Regulations** While traversing this route, it’s crucial to pay attention to the various navigation aids such as buoys and markers. Always adhere to local speed restrictions, especially in areas marked for manatee protection. The use of electronic charts, combined with traditional navigation methods, will help ensure safe passage. In addition to Savvy Navvy, which will help with route plotting and tracking, you might find apps like Navionics and NOAA Chart Viewer handy for updated weather conditions and marine traffic information. **Shelter Options** As a precaution, the following locations along your route provide excellent shelter: 1. **Sebastian Inlet** – In case of rough seas or sudden inclement weather. 2. **Fort Pierce** – A known safe harbor with a bustling marina. 3. **St. Lucie River** – Provides sufficient cover from the open Atlantic.**Conclusion** This route is not just about the destination but the journey itself. It showcases Florida's natural beauty and provides multiple opportunities for both marinas and fun activities. With careful planning, attentive navigation, and a spirit for adventure, you’ll enjoy a pleasant cruise from Melbourne to Port Saint Lucie, filled with scenic delights and vibrant culture. Safe travels on the water!