### Pilotage Plan: North Myrtle Beach, SC to Holden Beach, NC**Overview:**This pilotage plan details a scenic and safe route from North Myrtle Beach, SC to Holden Beach, NC. Stretching along the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway, this journey offers both calm waters for easier navigation and picturesque landscapes. This route is ideal for recreational boaters looking for a relaxing day cruise, but it’s also suitable for seasoned sailors who prefer the security of well-marked channels.**Route Highlights:****1. Departure from North Myrtle Beach:**Starting from the vibrant community of North Myrtle Beach, boaters will find the local marinas, such as the Harbourgate Marina, an excellent place to fuel up and prepare for the journey. As you leave the marina, steer carefully through the local channels, keeping an eye on the marked navigational aids, especially the buoys indicating the separation between the Intracoastal Waterway and private docks.**2. Intracoastal Waterway:**Once you enter the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), you will be greeted by scenic views and wildlife. The channel here is well-marked with green and red buoys. Maintaining a straight line between these markers will help you avoid any shallow areas, particularly near the marshes on either side of the waterway. **3. Notable Landmarks:**As you cruise south along the ICW, you will pass by several notable landmarks:- **Barefoot Landing:** A popular shopping and entertainment district. Consider stopping here for a meal or to stretch your legs, especially if you're traveling with family.- **Apache Pier:** One of the longest wooden piers on the East Coast, it’s a good place to anchor for fishing or explore the beach.- Beyond this, you'll encounter the tranquil waters of **Waites Island**, an undeveloped barrier island that provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly for birdwatchers.**4. Safety Considerations:**While on the water, stay informed about local weather conditions using weather apps and forecasts before departure. If conditions start to change, be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly. The ICW can be more exposed, especially in open areas, so keep an eye on the skies.**5. Shelter Bays:**If weather conditions turn unfavorable, several bays along your route provide good shelter:- **Little River:** A popular area to take refuge, with a range of marinas and safe anchoring spots.- **Myrtle Beach State Park:** Offers excellent sandy beaches where you can find a calm spot for anchoring. **6. Approach to Holden Beach:**As you near Holden Beach, you’ll navigate through the winding sections of the ICW. Pay special attention to the markers here, as it can become narrower and shallower in places. Watch out for local boat traffic, particularly around popular entry points to the beach. **7. Arrival at Holden Beach:**Holden Beach is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. The marina at Holden Beach provides amenities and is an excellent spot to refuel your boat and refresh yourself. Activities like kayaking and paddleboarding provide perfect opportunities for more fun once you've settled your boat.### Navigational Aids: Throughout your journey, make ample use of the navigational aids alongside the ICW. Keeping a GPS on deck will assist with precise location tracking. It’s worthwhile to consider using boating apps like **Savvy Navvy** for real-time navigation assistance and local updates that can be crucial for safe boating. Other useful apps include **Navionics** for extensive nautical charts and **Windy** for reliable weather forecasts.### Local Regulations:Be mindful of no-wake zones and any local ordinances, especially in the vicinity of residential areas and marinas. Additionally, there are seasonal restrictions in some wildlife protection areas; thus, always consult local regulations before your trip.**Conclusion:**This route from North Myrtle Beach to Holden Beach strikes a perfect balance between safety and enjoyment, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced boaters. With splendid views, notable landmarks, and sheltered bays, your boating adventure promises to be both safe and gratifying. Enjoy the trip, keep your life jackets accessible, and take in the natural beauty of the North Carolina coastline!