### Pilotage Plan: Boat Trip from Pickering, Ontario to St. Catharines, Ontario#### Overview of the JourneyThis trip from Pickering to St. Catharines along the picturesque waterways of Ontario offers an exciting marine adventure combined with the serenity of cruising in beautiful natural surroundings. The route traverses Lake Ontario and is perfect for day cruisers or those with some experience operating mid-sized motorboats or sailboats. This plan emphasizes safety while ensuring a memorable journey by highlighting possible shelter from inclement weather and local attractions.#### Departure Point: Pickering, OntarioBefore casting off, ensure your vessel is in prime condition, and your crew is well-briefed on the day's journey and safety protocols. Pickering is a good launch point as it is well-connected, with services nearby for final checks on equipment or supplies.#### Route Highlights1. **Leaving Pickering**: - Navigate out of Pickering Marina and head southwest toward the western shoreline of Lake Ontario. - Pay close attention to buoyage systems and navigational aids as you exit the marina.2. **Navigation Aids & Hazards**: - Look for buoys marking the shipping channels and keep your chart plotter handy to avoid shallow areas and submerged hazards. - Monitor VHF Channel 16 for any maritime traffic advisories and ensure you keep a lookout for larger vessels, particularly cargo ships.3. **Shelter Points Along the Route**: - **Scarborough Bluffs**: Approximately 8 nautical miles from Pickering, this picturesque area offers some partial shelter in a storm, as well as stunning views of dramatic cliffs. However, do not anchor here as it's often too rocky. - **Whitby Harbour**: Offers ample facilities for docking if any weather changes may force you to seek shelter. It’s a charming stop with restaurants and provisions. - **Oshawa Harbour**: A little further west, this harbor also provides a safe haven if conditions worsen. There are fuel docks, and it’s a good place to stretch your legs while ensuring your route ahead is still safe to navigate.4. **Proceeding Towards St. Catharines**: - As you near the Toronto waterfront, turning south towards the Welland Canal can be an option for those wanting to experience this engineering marvel, but it’s best suited for those familiar with the locks. - Stay alert to navigation markers as you approach St. Catharines, particularly around the entrance to the canal. Follow the course markings to avoid shallow areas off Port Dalhousie, and stay aware of local boat traffic.5. **Arriving at St. Catharines**: - St. Catharines is well equipped with amenities for boaters. Upon arrival, you can dock at the local marina, where you’ll find facilities to refuel, replenish supplies, and enjoy local dining options.#### Notable Landmarks and Points of Interest- **Toronto Islands**: If time allows and weather permits, a detour to the Toronto Islands offers a chance to explore the recreational parks, beaches, and scenic pathways. Bear in mind the rules for anchoring in this area.- **Niagara-on-the-Lake**: Just a short drive from St. Catharines, this historic town is renowned for its wineries, quaint shops, and scenic landscapes. #### Safety Considerations- Always check the local weather forecast before setting out. Lake Ontario can change rapidly, so be prepared with contingency plans.- Keep your life jackets accessible and verify that your communication devices (VHF radio or mobile) are in working order.- Review the Marine Traffic regulations for the area, particularly around busy ports and marinas to ensure compliance.#### RecommendationsConsider utilizing boating apps such as **Savvy Navvy**, which offers detailed charts, navigation assistance, and real-time data, making it a valuable companion for this journey. Other recommended apps include **Navionics** for detailed navigation charts and **Windy** for accurate weather forecasting.This journey from Pickering to St. Catharines isn’t just about the destination; it’s also an opportunity to enjoy the journey itself, all while keeping safety at the forefront. Enjoy the beauty and adventure that Lake Ontario has to offer!