**Pilotage Plan from Piriac sur Mer, France to Nantes, France****Route Overview:**Setting sail from Piriac sur Mer, with its charming coastal scenery and rich maritime heritage, this trip takes you along the picturesque and historically significant Loire River, leading ultimately to the city of Nantes. This plan focuses on safe navigation, ensuring that you make the most of your journey while being cognizant of potential hazards and noteworthy stops along the way.**1. Starting Point: Piriac sur Mer**- Latitude: 47.3809 N- Longitude: -2.5432 WYou’ll want to begin your journey with a good weather check and ensure your vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit. **2. Important Navigation Considerations:**As you leave Piriac sur Mer, keep in mind that you will be transitioning into the coastal waters of the Atlantic, with potentially changing weather conditions. The tides and currents here can influence your speed and direction, so checking tidal charts is crucial.**3. Notable Stops Along the Journey:****La Baule-Escoublac:**- Approximate distance from Piriac: 10 nautical miles.- A highly sought-after beach resort with a beautiful promenade. This is an excellent place for a lunch stop. The bay here provides decent shelter should weather conditions change.**Pornichet:**- Another beautiful coastal town just around the corner from La Baule. It features marinas and amenities that cater to boaters, including restaurants and shops.**Bays for Shelter:**- If the weather turns inclement while en route, you can consider heading to the sheltered bays around the peninsula of La Baule or further south to the Bay of Croisic. These locations offer excellent protection from heavy winds or storms.**4. Entry into the Loire Estuary:**After leaving the coastal towns, your navigation will draw you into the Loire Estuary. This portion of your journey comes with the requirement to be mindful of shipping traffic, especially as you approach the industrial port facilities. You may encounter larger vessels, and it’s advisable to maintain a safe distance while navigating through this area.**5. Key Navigation Aids:**Pay attention to buoys and markers that delineate safe channels. Watch for:- The "Port de Seine" buoy just before you enter more confined waters.- The "Chantiers de l'Atlantique" marker as landmarks of important shipbuilding and industrial history along your route.**6. Local Restrictions:**Nautical regulations around the Loire Estuary can vary; be prepared to check in with local authorities, especially when near ports and marinas. Respect speed limits in designated areas and heed any environmental regulations especially concerning wildlife and ecosystems along the river's banks.**7. Final Stretch to Nantes:**As you get closer to your final destination, look out for the city’s skyline which features the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a must-see if you have time to explore. This grand castle and its surrounding area offer a rich tapestry of history to enjoy.**Conclusion:**This route from Piriac sur Mer to Nantes is perfectly tailored for experienced yet safety-minded boaters who appreciate both natural beauty and historical intrigue. With ample opportunities for stops and protected bays along the way, it allows for flexibility in planning while keeping safety a priority. Before you set sail, ensure you have the following apps on hand: - Savvy Navvy for navigation- Navionics for detailed nautical charts - Windy for updates on weather conditions This information will enhance your journey, helping you make informed decisions and ensuring that your time on the water is safe and enjoyable. Happy cruising!