**Pilotage Plan: New Bedford, Massachusetts to Nantucket, Massachusetts*****Overview:***This trip from New Bedford, Massachusetts to Nantucket offers a delightful journey through some of New England's most stunning maritime scenery. As you make your way across the waters of Buzzards Bay and continue toward Nantucket Sound, be prepared for beautiful vistas, potential wildlife encounters, and interesting sights along the coastline. This route is ideal for intermediate to experienced boaters who are comfortable navigating coastal waters, with plenty of options for shelter and points of interest along the way.***Route Summary:***- **Starting Point:** New Bedford, MA- **Ending Point:** Nantucket, MA- **Distance:** Approximately 30 nautical miles***Section 1: Leaving New Bedford***As you depart from New Bedford Harbor, pay close attention to the local navigational aids. The harbor is marked with the prominent New Bedford Light (fixed white) marking your exit from the harbor. The local waters may be busy with fishing vessels and maritime traffic, so keep a vigilant watch. Retrace your route past Fort Taber Park (a notable point of interest with historical significance), and take a moment to enjoy views of the serene coastal landscape.***Section 2: Buzzards Bay Transit***Once you clear the harbor, follow well-marked channels north towards Buzzards Bay. Be mindful of various submerged rocks and shoals in the area, such as the Dolphin Ledge that lies to the north of the harbor entrance. The deeper water in the channel is mostly safe, but always consult the latest nautical charts for any updates on hazards.**Points of Shelter:**- **Mattapoisett Harbor**: If conditions worsen, this harbor provides excellent shelter with facilities for services and fuel. It’s a quaint town worth a brief stop to stretch your legs along its beautiful public beaches.As you proceed across Buzzards Bay, you might see a variety of marine life, from dolphins to migratory birds. This area is particularly known for its scenic beauty and is a great opportunity to do some wildlife watching.***Section 3: Turning into Nantucket Sound***As you approach the northern edge of Buzzards Bay, be prepared to navigate through the waters of Nantucket Sound. This stretch can experience currents and shifts in wind patterns, making it essential to maintain an appropriate course and speed. The strategic use of your chart plotter will be invaluable here.Watch for the distinctive "Sailors’ Snug Harbor" right before entering Nantucket Sound; this location can serve as another refuge should you need to wait out unfavorable conditions.***Section 4: Entering the Nantucket Channel***As you near Nantucket Island, be aware of the busy shipping lanes and ferries that operate in this area. Nantucket itself has a well-marked entrance; keep an eye on the buoys indicating the channel leading into the mooring fields. The following navigational aids will help guide you:- **Nantucket Lightship**: A significant landmark that assists in navigation.- **Nantucket Harbor Entrance Buoy**: Critical to follow to ensure safe entry.**Points of Interest on Nantucket:**- Once you arrive on Nantucket, the island offers an array of beautiful sights such as Brant Point Lighthouse and the cobblestoned streets of Nantucket Town. You may enjoy dining, shopping or visiting local museums dedicated to the island’s whaling history.***Conclusion:***This journey from New Bedford to Nantucket blends spectacular scenery with rich local history. It is essential to keep a weather eye as conditions can change quickly in these coastal waters—being well-prepared and vigilant with navigation aids will ensure your safety. It's advisable to equip your vessel with all necessary safety gear, check the weather before departure, and remain updated on any marine advisories.For an added layer of safety and convenience, consider using boating apps such as savvy navvy, Navionics, and Windy to plan your trip, track your course, and stay informed about conditions along the way. Each tool provides unique features that enhance your boating experience. With a well-thought-out plan, safe navigation practices, and a spirit of adventure, you’ll be set for an exhilarating trip across the waters to Nantucket!