### Pilotage Plan: Palau, OT, IT to Porto Cervo, OT, IT**Route Overview** The journey from Palau to Porto Cervo offers a pleasant cruise through the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago, characterized by its crystalline waters, charming islands, and vibrant marine life. This 16-nautical mile journey leads you through some beautiful scenery, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. This route is particularly suitable for intermediate cruisers who value both safety and exploration, with ample points of interest to enrich the experience.---#### Departure from PalauStarting your adventure in Palau, you will be greeted by the calm waters of the harbor. Before you set sail, ensure your vessel is equipped with the necessary safety equipment - life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. Check the weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly, especially in the afternoons. A good app to use for tracking these changes is **savvy navvy**, which provides real-time weather updates and navigational assistance.#### Leg 1: Palau to Capo d'Orso**Distance:** Approximately 3 nautical miles **Navigational Points:** Look for the iconic rock formation known as the "Orso" (Bear), which is a notable landmark when heading towards Capo d'Orso. As you cruise along, keep an eye out for local fishing boats and the occasional ferry service. It’s advisable to maintain a safe distance from these vessels due to their movements in and out of the harbor. The waters are generally sheltered, making it an ideal section for adjusting sails or simply enjoying the scenery.**Points of Interest:** - **Capo d'Orso**: A great spot for a brief stop. The area is renowned for its natural beauty and stunning views. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a short hike to the top of the rock for panoramic views.#### Leg 2: Capo d'Orso to La Maddalena Island **Distance:** Approximately 4 nautical miles **Navigational Aids:** Pay attention to the channel markers as you navigate through the strait between Capo d'Orso and La Maddalena. The water depth can vary and be mindful of shallow spots, especially near the island’s eastern coast.As you approach La Maddalena, you will enter a national park, which requires adherence to local regulations. Ensure you have your anchoring permit, as some areas may be restricted to preserve the natural habitat.**Points of Interest:** - **La Maddalena Town**: A quaint town perfect for exploring charming shops, cafés, and local eateries. It’s also an excellent place to refuel and stock up on supplies.#### Leg 3: La Maddalena Island to Isola di Caprera**Distance:** Approximately 2 nautical miles **Navigational Considerations:** The waters between La Maddalena and Caprera can be quite busy, with both leisure and commercial vessels. Always remain vigilant and utilize your navigation app to route around any traffic.Here, you can anchor at Cala Coticcio, which is well-known for its stunning beach and tranquil waters. This is a great place to take a swim or simply relax on the shore.#### Leg 4: Isola di Caprera to Porto Cervo**Distance:** Approximately 7 nautical miles **Navigational Aids:** As you navigate towards Porto Cervo, follow the defined channel carefully, particularly as you pass the stern of the smaller islands. The area near Porto Cervo is well-marked with navigation aids, so keep an eye on your charts and GPS.**Shelter Options:** In case of sudden weather changes, you can seek shelter in the bays around the islands near Porto Cervo, such as Cala di Volpe or the Gulf of Pevero. These bays are typically well-protected and offer a safe haven.**Arrival at Porto Cervo** Porto Cervo is a luxurious destination known for its glittering marina, high-end shops, and vibrant nightlife. After settling in, take time to explore the marina area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this gem in Sardinia.**Additional Safety Tips:**- Always check tidal levels, especially when anchoring or planning to explore shallow areas.- Make use of reliable nautical charts, aligning them with your digital navigation app.- Keep an eye on the weather patterns and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.This route from Palau to Porto Cervo is perfect for boaters looking to enjoy the stunning beauty of Sardinia's coastline while keeping safety as a top priority. With ample shelter options, fascinating points of interest, and general navigational aids, you are set for a fantastic boating experience in one of Italy's most beautiful regions. Happy cruising!