**Pilotage Plan: Panama City, Florida to Destin, Florida****Route Overview:**This delightful coastal journey from Panama City to Destin spans approximately 40 nautical miles along the stunning Gulf Coast. It is particularly suited for leisure cruisers and experienced boaters looking for a combination of tranquil waters, beautiful scenery, and potential points of interest. This trip boasts a blend of safety and adventure, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing weekend or a more extended getaway.**Departure from Panama City:**Starting from Panama City, you’ll want to check the weather conditions, tides, and local warnings before setting sail. Panama City offers a bustling marina scene with various facilities. Be sure to top off your fuel and check your supplies, including safety equipment.**Initial Leg to St. Andrews Bay:**As you depart Panama City, head west towards Saint Andrews Bay, about 5 nautical miles from the city. This bay provides an excellent opportunity to find some shelter should the weather start to turn. Look out for the navigational aids guiding you through this well-charted bay, including the St. Andrews Bay Entrance Buoy (FL G 4s 20ft).**Handy Shelter at Shell Island:**Continue westward towards Shell Island, a scenic barrier island that offers a great stop for beachcombing, wildlife watching, or just relaxing. It’s a significant landmark in the area and can also provide refuge from sudden squalls. Be attentive to shoaling around the island, particularly on the northern side. **Entering the Gulf of Mexico:**Leave St. Andrews Bay and head out into the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As you do, keep an eye out for local charter boats and fishing vessels. The Gulf is generally less crowded, but you will want to monitor traffic and watch for navigation buoys marking channels and shoals.**Navigating the Waterway to Destin:**Sail along the stunning coastline, enjoying views of white sandy beaches and vibrant blue waters. The next major landmark will be the entrance to Choctawhatchee Bay, a wide-open bay that can provide another place to seek shelter if conditions worsen. While crossing the entrance, be sure to stay within the marked channels to avoid shallow areas.**Notable Points Along the Way:**1. **Grayton Beach State Park:** A perfect stop for nature lovers, this park is known for its lush landscapes, offering hiking trails and scenic views. It’s a few miles south, accessible via dinghy, and ideal for a picnic.2. **Point Washington State Forest:** If you have time and can navigate shallow channels, consider anchoring nearby to explore the forest trails or enjoy some birdwatching. **Arriving in Destin:**As you approach Destin, set your sights on the East Pass, a popular channel that guides boats into the harbor. Be careful of navigation markers here; they are critical as the currents can be swift. The well-marked East Pass light will bring you safely into the harbor.**Destin Harbor:**Once through the East Pass, you are in the bustling heart of Destin. The harbor is full of restaurants, shops, and amenities. Before docking, be aware of mooring regulations, as spots can fill up quickly during peak times.**Safety Considerations:**1. **Weather Monitoring:** Always check local forecasts before departure and during your trip. Conditions can change rapidly in the Gulf.2. **Tides and Currents:** Be aware of local tides, as they can have a significant effect on your vessel's navigation and docking.3. **Safety Gear:** Ensure that your boat is equipped with life jackets, a first aid kit, flares, and fire extinguishers. VHF radio communication is vital for safety and should always be checked.**Recommended Apps:**In addition to traditional resources like charts, I highly recommend utilizing boating apps to enhance your journey. **Savvy Navvy** offers fantastic route planning tools, weather updates, and navigational aids, making it a must-have for your trip. Other useful apps include Navionics and myFishFinders.**Conclusion:**This itinerary from Panama City to Destin perfectly balances safety and leisure. With beautiful landscapes, inviting shelters, and numerous stopping points, boaters of all skill levels will find satisfaction and adventure along this route. Whether you're anchoring at Shell Island, exploring scenic parks, or enjoying the vibrant Destin community, this adventure promises to be memorable while keeping safety at the forefront. Happy sailing!