### Pilotage Plan: Miami, Florida to Bimini, Bahamas**Starting Point: Miami, Florida**Coordinates: Longitude -80.1744, Latitude 25.8130Miami serves as a vibrant gateway to the Bahamas, offering a wealth of facilities, provisions, and services for boaters. Before embarking on your voyage, ensure that your vessel is well-prepared with adequate safety equipment, fuel, and supplies. Pay close attention to your weather windows as conditions can change rapidly in the Florida Straits.**Route Overview:**The distance from Miami to Bimini is approximately 50 nautical miles, which generally places you within a 3 to 5-hour cruising time depending on your vessel's speed and sea conditions. The typical route leads you eastward across the warm, turquoise waters of the Gulf Stream, a powerful tidal flow that can significantly affect your travel time and navigation.---### Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest:1. **Miami’s Biscayne Bay:** As you set out from Miami, you will navigate through Biscayne Bay. This large body of water is home to numerous islands and is a great spot for a final provisioning stop. Nearby, popular destinations include Key Biscayne and the famous Miami Beach, which can be admired from the water.2. **Cape Florida Lighthouse:** As you leave the bay behind, keep an eye out for the Historic Cape Florida Lighthouse on Key Biscayne. This scenic landmark marks the southern tip of the island and provides an excellent photography opportunity—consider a brief stop if conditions allow.3. **Fowey Rocks Light:** Lying offshore near the boundary of the Miami shipping channels, this navigational aid aids in safe passage. The light structure and the water surrounding it can be an ideal site to monitor your course as you emerge into the open water of the Straits.---### Navigational Considerations:1. **Gulf Stream Awareness:** As you exit the Miami area, you will cross the Gulf Stream. Be cautious of its powerful currents; they can create significant wave action, especially during an opposing wind. Always check current forecasts, and adjust your course accordingly.2. **Navigation Aids:** Keep a watch on your charts—important navigational buoys include the Miami Harbor Entrance Light and various markers that delineate the shipping channels. Ensure your GPS is functioning well, as it will provide vital course information and help you find safe water channels.3. **Weather Monitoring:** Continuous monitoring of weather conditions is a must. Utilize apps like Garmin ActiveCaptain, Navionics, and give due diligence to forecasts from NOAA as you approach Bimini. Always be prepared to adjust your plans based on the conditions you face.---### Shelters and Safe Havens:Should weather conditions unexpectedly worsen, here are a couple of recommended stopping places:1. **Barnes Sound:** Located on the way to Bimini, anchoring here can provide a safe harbor from rough seas and winds. It’s a serene spot filled with beautiful nature spots for a rest.2. **Nassau Sound:** If your voyage suddenly requires a longer detour, Nassau offers safe docking facilities and is renowned for its dining and local markets. It’s a perfect stop for shoreside exploration while waiting for a weather window.---### Arrival at Bimini, BahamasCoordinates: Longitude -79.2997, Latitude 25.7225Upon approaching Bimini, you will navigate past the rich turquoise waters that provide stunning views as you cross the Bahama Banks. Be aware of local regulations on anchoring and mooring upon arrival. Notably, the Bimini Sands Resort and Marina offers excellent services for visitors. Ensure you have the necessary documentation for entering Bahamian waters, including proof of boat ownership and compliance with customs regulations. ### ConclusionThis route from Miami to Bimini is perfect for experienced cruisers and adventurous weekenders alike. With adequate preparation and attention to safety protocols, you can enjoy a scenic, memorable journey. Always prioritize safe navigation over speed, and stay informed using trusted boating apps like Savvy Navvy for your chart plotting needs. Wishing you a safe and delightful voyage!