**Pilotage Plan from Palm Beach, Florida to Hollywood, Florida** **Departure: Palm Beach, Florida (Lat: 26.7679, Long: -80.0446)** You'll begin your journey in Palm Beach, a well-known destination featuring beautiful waterfronts and upscale resorts. Before you set sail, familiarize yourself with local weather conditions and check for any advisories. Always start your trip by making sure your safety equipment is on board, including life jackets, flares, and a reliable communication device.**Route Overview:** This cruising route will follow the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), providing a safe and scenic passage while avoiding the often challenging open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The ICW offers a good balance of stunning views, wildlife, and access to facilities along the coast.**Leg 1: Palm Beach to Boynton Inlet** Starting from Palm Beach, you will head south along the ICW. You'll find the waters here generally calm, making it ideal for most boaters, including families and leisure cruisers. Keep an eye out for navigation markers, especially as you pass through busy areas. The ICW is well-marked with buoys indicating safe passage, but maintaining situational awareness is key.Hazards: Watch for shallow areas and coral reefs, particularly near Lake Worth Inlet. Maintain a vigilant lookout for other vessels, especially during weekends when the waterway may be busier.**Point of Interest: Boynton Beach** As you approach Boynton Beach, consider taking a short detour into the nearby Boynton Beach Inlet. This area offers a lovely beach and a variety of waterfront dining options. Shelter options can be found in the local harbors, providing a safe place to anchor if weather conditions worsen.**Leg 2: Boynton Inlet to Delray Beach** Continuing south, the ICW will run parallel to the shoreline. This section is dotted with picturesque parks and affluent neighborhoods. The navigation aids are clear, and you will want to pay special attention as you navigate past bridges that may have specific opening times for taller vessels.**Point of Interest: Delray Beach** Delray Beach is famous for its vibrant arts scene and lively downtown. This is an excellent place to stop and explore. If you encounter inclement weather, you can seek shelter in the local marinas.**Leg 3: Delray Beach to Boca Raton Inlet** You’ll have a straightforward trek from Delray Beach to Boca Raton. Be aware that the channel can have a swift current, especially near inlets. Further, you'll want to monitor the weather, as conditions can change rapidly along this stretch of water.**Point of Interest: Boca Raton** Take a moment to drop anchor and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Boca Raton coastline. If the weather shifts unexpectedly, there are ample facilities for docking in the area, allowing for a secure refuge.**Leg 4: Boca Raton to Hillsboro Inlet** From Boca Raton, proceed towards the Hillsboro Inlet. This leg includes beautiful views of the coastal landscape and is an ideal area for those who enjoy wildlife spotting. The current may become challenging when approaching the Hillsboro Inlet, so ensure you enter with caution.**Point of Interest: Deerfield Beach** This is a great stop for recreational activities such as swimming or fishing, perfect for a mid-journey break. The inlet is capable of providing shelter if the winds pick up.**Leg 5: Hillsboro Inlet to Fort Lauderdale** Now, you are moving towards Fort Lauderdale, where you will encounter larger vessel traffic. Ensure you’re on the lookout for yachts and commercial vessels. Stay within the marked channels and heed the signals of the navigation lights.**Point of Interest: Fort Lauderdale** With a variety of attractions, including beaches and museums, Fort Lauderdale is a prime destination for a longer stop. There are plenty of marinas here equipped for transient docking if you need to wait out any weather changes.**Leg 6: Fort Lauderdale to Hollywood, Florida** Finally, as you make your way from Fort Lauderdale to Hollywood, this section of the ICW features a combination of residential waterfronts and lush parks. This is a pleasant stretch to complete your journey, with several points to pull off if needed.**Arriving at Hollywood, Florida (Lat: 26.0336, Long: -80.1161)** Upon reaching Hollywood, you can enjoy its well-known boardwalk and beautiful beaches. Always check for local regulations and possible mooring or anchorage restrictions upon arrival.**Regulations and Local Considerations:** Remember to respect the speed limits within the ICW, especially near low-speed zones marked by buoys. Familiarize yourself with local rules about fishing and recreational activities. Regularly check apps such as “Savvy Navvy” to help with navigation and real-time updates regarding tides, weather, and potential hazards.**Final Thoughts:** This passage is well-suited for recreational boaters looking for a relaxed experience while enjoying the natural beauty of Florida’s coast. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities for stopping, whether to take in local culture, grab a bite to eat, or find shelter during inclement weather. Safe travels and enjoy your trip from Palm Beach to Hollywood!