**Pilotage Plan: Panama City, Florida to Port St. Joe, Florida****Route Overview**This trip from Panama City to Port St. Joe, a distance of roughly 22 nautical miles, is perfect for both novice and intermediate boaters who enjoy scenic views and protected waters. The route predominantly takes you through the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico, providing opportunities to experience stunning coastlines and unique marine life. You'll also encounter a few key landmarks and potential shelter bays that will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.---**Segment 1: Departing Panama City**Starting off from Panama City, your journey begins on St. Andrews Bay. As you head west, keep an eye out for the entrance markers that guide you safely out of the bay. Notable navigational aids include:- **Buoy 2**: A critical marker to keep you in the channel as you exit the bay—stay close to it on your starboard side.Your first stop, should you wish to explore, is the beautiful **St. Andrews State Park**. Anchor here for a relaxing afternoon; the waters are typically calm, and the park offers pristine beaches.---**Segment 2: Navigating the Gulf of Mexico**Once you have exited St. Andrews Bay, you'll enter the Gulf of Mexico. Monitor your charts closely as you’ll want to maintain a safe distance from the coastline while navigating. Watch for the following:- **Navigational marker at East Pass**: This is a crucial reference point that indicates the continuation of your route towards Mexico Beach. The waters here can be influenced by weather conditions, so ensure you keep an eye on the forecast. If the weather turns, both **Mexico Beach** and **Gulf County Canal** provide excellent shelter options. The canal is well-marked and offers calm waters—a perfect spot to weather any storms.---**Segment 3: Approaching Port St. Joe**As you near Port St. Joe, you'll encounter **Bayside Marina** and **Port St. Joe City Marina**, both of which have great facilities if you wish to dock for the night. The navigational buoys leading into St. Joe Bay are well-maintained, providing a straightforward approach. Be sure to:- Take note of the **green and red markers** that guide you into the bay; adhering to proper channel protocol is essential, as the tides can shift the sandbars unpredictably.Upon entering the Bay, you can admire the beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife. Before you reach the marina, consider taking a detour to the **lighthouse at Cape San Blas**, a historic structure offering scenic views.---**Safety Considerations**While the route is generally straightforward, safety is paramount. Ensure you have the following aboard:1. **Life Jackets**: Compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.2. **VHF Radio**: Essential for emergency communications.3. **First Aid Kit**: Always useful, especially when out for extended periods.4. **Weather App**: Stay informed about any changing conditions, and for comprehensive navigation support, I recommend using savvy navvy, among other trusted apps. ---**Conclusion**The trip from Panama City to Port St. Joe offers a mix of sheltered bays, picturesque coastal scenery, and unique attractions, catering to boaters who want an engaging yet safe experience on the water. Whether you choose to explore St. Andrews State Park, seek shelter in Mexico Beach, or simply cruise past the historical landmarks, this route has plenty to offer while keeping safety as your top priority.