**Pilotage Plan: Peterborough, Ontario to Roseneath, Ontario****Overview:**This journey from Peterborough to Roseneath spans approximately 15 nautical miles across the picturesque waters of the Trent-Severn Waterway. This route is ideal for boaters seeking a leisurely cruise amidst Ontario's stunning landscapes, with many opportunities to enjoy nature while also prioritizing safety. **Departure from Peterborough:**Your adventure begins at the Peterborough Marina, a well-equipped facility that provides an excellent starting point. Before you set off, ensure that you have checked the weather forecast and tide schedules for the day. Peterborough has various amenities for provisioning and fuel, so last-minute supplies can be acquired if needed.**Route Navigation:**1. **Initial Departure:** As you leave Peterborough, follow the Otonabee River, which leads you away from the city. Watch out for navigation markers that guide the way. Keep an eye on local boat traffic, especially as it can get busy near the marina and bridges.2. **Navigational Aids:** Ensure you are aware of the buoys marking the channel, especially as the river can be narrow in sections. Two key navigational aids to look out for include the red and green channel markers, which indicate the safe passage through the waters.3. **Hazards to Consider:** There may be submerged obstructions and shallows along the route, particularly closer to the shoreline. It is advisable to maintain a safe distance from the banks while navigating to avoid any unexpected grounding.4. **Points of Interest Along the Way:** - **Little Lake:** As you travel, you’ll navigate through Little Lake, a perfect location for a short stop. The lake is renowned for its scenic beauty and offers a lovely park area where you can enjoy a picnic or a brief wander ashore. - **Peterborough Lift Lock:** A short detour allows you to experience the grandeur of the Peterborough Lift Lock, an engineering marvel and a National Historic Site. The view from the top is breathtaking.5. **Sheltering Bays:** If weather conditions deteriorate, you may want to consider taking refuge in Étienne Bay. This sheltered bay provides calm waters and is an ideal spot for an impromptu rest. There is plenty of space for anchoring, and it offers some degree of protection from wind and waves.6. **Approach to Roseneath:** As you make your way toward Roseneath, pay attention to navigational charts as well as any local regulatory signage welcoming you into new waters. The vibrant countryside will be your backdrop as you approach this charming town.**Arrival in Roseneath:**Upon nearing Roseneath, prepare to navigate into the marina area, which tends to have varying traffic, particularly from local pleasure craft. Approach slowly and keenly observe any entry regulations. The Roseneath Marina is equipped for transient boats and offers various amenities, making it an ideal spot to conclude this part of your journey.**Safety Considerations:**- Keep the VHF radio tuned to channel 16 for emergency broadcasts.- Always wear a life jacket while on deck and ensure all passengers are briefed on safety procedures.- Maintain a lookout for sudden weather changes, especially since conditions can shift quickly on the water.- Respect local wildlife and their habitats, adhering to no-wake zones in specific areas to ensure minimal disruption.**Final Tips:**Before embarking, consider utilizing boat navigation apps like Navionics and savvy navvy to facilitate planning, real-time tracking, and weather updates. These tools are invaluable in helping you navigate efficiently while keeping safety at the forefront of your journey.This route offers not only an opportunity for safe navigation but also a chance to enjoy the stunning backdrop of Ontario's waterways, making it an ideal excursion for both novice and seasoned boaters. Happy cruising!