**Pilotage Plan: New Bedford, MA to Fall River, MA****Route Overview** This journey allows you to navigate the intriguing waters between New Bedford and Fall River, featuring remarkable scenery, rich maritime history, and strategic shelter spots should the weather turn unfavorable. The covering distance is approximately 15 nautical miles, making for a leisurely day trip perfect for both novice and experienced sailors. **Starting Point: New Bedford, Massachusetts** As you prepare to set sail from New Bedford, ensure that your boat is in good condition and your safety gear is readily available. This vibrant city is known for its whaling history and bustling harbor, so why not take a moment to appreciate the historic district and the famous Whaling Museum before you head out? **Step 1: Out of New Bedford Harbor** Depart New Bedford by navigating through the main shipping channel, paying close attention to the many navigation markers that guide larger vessels. Be vigilant about currents and tides, particularly in the narrow channels where they can be strong. The harbor is well-marked, but remain aware of smaller fishing vessels that frequent the area.**Step 2: Passing Fairhaven and the Acushnet River** As you cruise towards Fairhaven, keep your eyes peeled for the picturesque waterfront. This provides a splendid opportunity to pull in and explore the historic center or dock and enjoy a meal. The Acushnet River directly adjacent offers an escape into a calmer environment if conditions become rough, with several sheltered spots to anchor and ride out any weather disturbances.**Step 3: Heading towards Mount Hope Bay** Once you've passed Fairhaven, you'll find yourself approaching Mount Hope Bay. This area is generally calm, but pay attention to the currents especially near the point where the Bay meets the Sakonnet River. Here, the traffic can increase with both commercial and recreational vessels. Utilize navigational apps like savvy navvy to track your position and plan for any changing conditions.**Important Navigation Aids:**- **Lighthouse**: Be sure to look out for the prominent lighthouses marking the entrance to the bays. These aids will be pivotal in determining your position and course.- **Buoys**: Use the navigation buoys to maintain safe distances from shoals and underwater hazards. Pay careful heed to their colors and markings.- **Charts**: Confirm that you have up-to-date charts exhibiting depth contours, especially in the shallower areas near the bays where sandbars can arise.**Step 4: Exploring Paskamansett River** Should the weather change, the Paskamansett River to your east offers secure anchorage. The banks are lined with natural beauty, and the river’s curves lead into quiet coves where you can take a break and enjoy nature. **Step 5: Approach to Fall River** As you near Fall River, approach the Taunton River entrance with caution. Be aware of the commercial traffic, especially as this area has heavy ferry routes. Here lies an exciting chance to explore the vibrant city of Fall River, noted for its rich textile history and the Battleship Cove, which is home to several historic naval vessels. **Points of Interest** Upon arrival in Fall River, look into visiting Battleship Cove, and if time allows, walk the waterfront promenade. The local restaurants provide delightful seafood options fresh from the Atlantic.**Conclusion and Safety Considerations** This route from New Bedford to Fall River offers a balance of scenic beauty and cultural richness, making for an enjoyable boating experience. Always keep a keen eye on weather forecasts and tide charts to ensure safe travel and adjust your itinerary as necessary. Experienced boaters will enjoy the opportunities for exploration and admire the picturesque views, while novice sailors can feel secure knowing they have safe, sheltered bays to retreat to if conditions change. Before setting off, ensure your boating apparatus, such as life jackets and flares, are in sound condition, and consider installing a reliable marine communication device. In addition to savvy navvy, have other boating apps on hand that help with navigation and real-time conditions, ensuring you're always informed during your voyage. Enjoy the journey!