**Pilotage Plan from North Miami Beach, FL to Hypoluxo, FL****Overview**This route from North Miami Beach to Hypoluxo is ideal for boaters seeking a mixture of safety and leisure. The sheltered waters along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) provide a perfect alternative to open sea navigation, minimizing risks associated with weather changes while allowing for a range of sights and stops along the way. This trip is particularly suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters, as they will navigate varied waterway conditions and be prepared for occasional tidal influences.---**Route Description****Starting Point: North Miami Beach, FL** Coordinates: 25.934133, -80.146017 Departure from this vibrant city means you’ll quickly enter the ICW, where the navigation is straightforward but requires vigilance for the traffic of both recreational and commercial vessels. **Waypoint 1: Haulover Inlet** As you head north toward Haulover Inlet, you will navigate through a designated ICW channel. Be cautious of the inlet’s currents and depth, especially during tidal changes. This area can also be busy with fishing boats and yachts. Depending on your timing, it may be possible to anchor here for a brief stop to enjoy the ocean view and perhaps drop a line.**Shelter Option: Haulover Park** Should the weather take a turn, Haulover Park offers excellent shelter. Anchor in the protected waters of the park, and find amenities onshore including picnic areas and beaches.**Waypoint 2: Sunny Isles Beach** Continuing through the ICW provides lovely scenic views of upscale waterfront homes and the deep blue waters of Biscayne Bay. Make note of navigational aids such as buoys marking the ICW and avoid straying into shallow areas typical of local lagoons.**Waypoint 3: Boca Raton** Approaching Boca Raton, you can glimpse its beautiful coastline and perhaps stop for lunch at one of the waterfront cafes that welcome boaters. The Boca Raton Inlet offers another opportunity for shelter; however, be wary of its shifting sandbars and watch the tides closely if considering passage.**Waypoint 4: Delray Beach** As you near Delray Beach, the waterfront bustle increases. This area boasts vibrant public parks and a lively beachfront, perfect for a brief excursion. When navigating around here, pay close attention to local traffic regulations as there are various speed zones.**Shelter Option: Delray Municipal Beach** Should conditions worsen, the Delray Municipal Beach offers secure waters, though the proximity to shore can get congested, so approach with care.**Waypoint 5: Boynton Beach** Continuing further, Boynton Beach offers a quaint stop where you can catch the sights of the Intracoastal and visit historical landmarks. The Boynton Beach Inlet is another pass-through with potential shelter but requires experienced handling due to strong currents.**Final Destination: Hypoluxo, FL** Coordinates: 26.559983, -80.051833 As you approach Hypoluxo, keep an eye out for navigational marks indicating the entrance to the harbor. This scenic little spot offers some protected waters ideal for anchoring and is located just south of the expansive Lake Worth Lagoon.---**Navigational Aids and Regulations**Throughout the journey, keep an eye out for the various channel markers, regulation signage, and the tides. Remember that the ICW can have speed markers—such as “No Wake Zones”—which are strictly enforced, especially in populated areas.Make sure to check the local weather conditions before departure and throughout the trip. Pending storms or adverse conditions can be mitigated by being aware of potential shelter locations mentioned. **Useful Apps**When planning on sailing this route, consider utilizing apps such as Savvy Navvy, Navionics, and NOAA Weather to enhance your navigation, ensure safety, and keep track of weather changes.---This journey from North Miami Beach to Hypoluxo is as scenic as it is practical, offering a range of safe havens and engaging points of interest along the way. By prioritizing safety while still relishing the beauty of Florida's waterways, this trip becomes not just a passage but an experience worth remembering. Enjoy your voyage!