**Pilotage Plan: Morehead City, North Carolina to Ocracoke, North Carolina****Overview:**This itinerary takes you from Morehead City, a vibrant coastal city, across the picturesque Pamlico Sound, to Ocracoke, a charming island known for its rich history and natural beauty. This route is well-suited for experienced boaters, as well as those looking to enjoy a bit of adventure. However, safety is paramount, and attention must be paid to navigational aids, weather conditions, and shelter options along the way.**Starting Point: Morehead City, NC**Your journey begins in Morehead City, conveniently positioned at the junction of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and the Atlantic Ocean. Before departure, ensure your vessel is fully fueled, equipped with safety gear, and check local weather conditions. **Route Overview:**1. **Departure from Morehead City:** - Navigate the ICW, heading southeast from Morehead City. Keep the Morehead City State Port on your port side.2. **Navigational Aids:** - Pay close attention to the marks and buoys along the route. Notably, the channel is well-marked with red and green navigation buoys. Use your chart plotter and radar—make sure to have the updated paper charts as a backup as well.3. **Bogue Sound:** - As you proceed, you'll traverse through Bogue Sound. Although this area generally offers good conditions, be alert for changes in weather. In case of inclement weather, you can find refuge in small creeks or bays, such as the waters south of Emerald Isle.**Shelter and Points of Interest:**- **Beaufort, NC:** - A short diversion can lead you into Beaufort, a lovely historic town where you can explore waterfront shops, dine, or visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum. This area also has good shelter if needed, with amenities for fueling and supplies. - **Shackleford Banks:** - Look for the opportunity to anchor near the Shackleford Banks, known for its wild horses and natural landscapes. It’s an idyllic stop for swimming or beachcombing.4. **Southwest through Core Sound:** - Continue your journey, heading southwest. As you approach Core Sound, keep an eye out for fishing boats and be mindful of local fishing restrictions. This stretch can be less crowded than the ICW, providing a beautiful scenic route.5. **Navigating to Ocracoke:** - As you make your way into the Ocracoke Inlet, be sure to stay on course and observe navigational markers, as the inlet can shift with sandbars. Consult your charts, and keep an eye out for any local advisories.**Entering Ocracoke:**- Upon arrival at Ocracoke, you’ll notice its quaint village atmosphere. Ocracoke's harbor is well-maintained with adequate docking facilities; ensure you comply with their mooring regulations.**Safety Tips:**- Always monitor marine weather updates as conditions can change rapidly. - Make use of modern boating apps, such as Savvy Navvy, Navionics, and the NOAA Weather app for reliable navigation and weather info.- Maintain a wary watch for shoaling and shallow areas, particularly as you approach Ocracoke and its tidal shoals.- Abide by local regulations, including permitted areas for fishing, anchoring, and any preservation guidelines regarding wildlife.**Conclusion:**The route from Morehead City to Ocracoke combines natural beauty, opportunities for exploration, and essential safety considerations. With careful planning and an eye for navigation, this journey promises an enriching experience on the water. Remember to have a wonderful time while prioritizing your safety and stewardship of the beautiful waters you are exploring. Happy boating!