### Pilotage Plan: Pompano Beach to Jensen Beach, Florida**Departure Point:** - **Start City:** Pompano Beach - **Region:** Florida - **Country:** United States - **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -80.0831, 26.2591 **Destination Point:** - **End City:** Jensen Beach - **Region:** Florida - **Country:** United States - **Coordinates:** Long/Lat -80.2247, 27.2542 ---#### Route OverviewThis enchanting cruise from Pompano Beach to Jensen Beach will guide you through some of Florida’s pristine coastal waters, offering a tapestry of beautiful scenery, local wildlife, and sheltered spots. The trip stretches roughly 55 nautical miles, primarily along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), which is a favorable route for boaters prioritizing safety and navigational ease.### Sections of the Route#### 1. Pompano Beach to Hillsboro Inlet- **Distance:** ~5 NM- **Landmarks:** As you set out from Pompano Beach, don't miss the iconic Hillsboro Lighthouse, visible as you approach the inlet. - **Hazards:** The bar at Hillsboro Inlet can present challenges with shifting sands, especially during low tide. Maintain caution and stay alert to changing conditions.- **Shelter Point:** Hillsboro Inlet offers good shelter for overnight stops, but make sure to anchor properly as currents can shift dramatically.#### 2. Hillsboro Inlet to Boca Raton- **Distance:** ~8 NM- **Landmarks:** Boca Raton is known for its stunning beaches and the historic Boca Raton Resort & Club.- **Navigational Aids:** Watch for buoys marking the inlet and ICW. Keep an eye out for commercial traffic in this area, and be vigilant about your course.- **Activities:** Boca Raton provides excellent opportunities for dining, shopping, or taking a stroll through the beautiful parks, including the Boca Raton Museum of Art.#### 3. Boca Raton to Delray Beach- **Distance:** ~6 NM- **Landmarks:** Look for the vibrant atmosphere of Atlantic Avenue as you cruise by. Delray Beach is well known for its friendly vibe and artsy community.- **Hazards:** Be aware of shallower areas and reported shoaling along the route. Use local charts and the savvy navvy app for updated depth information.- **Shelter Point:** Delray Beach offers multiple marinas, and should the weather turn, it’s a safe harbor.#### 4. Delray Beach to Boynton Beach- **Distance:** ~5 NM- **Landmarks:** The Boynton Beach Inlet serves as a unique transition between the coastal waters and the ICW. - **Safety Tip:** The inlet can become choppy with winds or tidal changes, so pay attention to conditions. Entering at slack tide often provides the easiest experience.- **Activities:** Check out the Boynton Beach Oceanfront Park for some fun in the sun, or relax at local eateries.#### 5. Boynton Beach to Lake Worth Inlet- **Distance:** ~7 NM- **Landmarks:** Navigate carefully past the lush Palm Beach coastline, dotted with opulent residences.- **Navigational Aids:** Monitor ATON (Aids to Navigation) closely as commercial shipping lanes are active. - **Shelter Point:** Lake Worth is a traditionally bustling harbor; if the weather worsens, this is a solid spot to tuck in and wait it out.#### 6. Lake Worth Inlet to Jupiter- **Distance:** ~12 NM- **Landmarks:** Jupiter is famous for its lighthouse, a can’t-miss spot on this trip. - **Activities:** The area is excellent for exploration, with beautiful parks like the Jonathan Dickinson State Park nearby for nature lovers.- **Safety Note:** Maintain vigilance for sandbars as you navigate near the jetties and inlet.#### 7. Jupiter to Jensen Beach- **Distance:** ~12 NM- **Landmarks:** Approaching Jensen Beach, admire the coastal scenery and look out for dolphin pods and other wildlife. - **Navigational Aids:** Adhere to the buoys marking the ICW and be mindful of local fishing activities in the vicinity.- **Final Destination Activities:** Jensen Beach is fantastic for families and offers opportunities for fishing, dining, and relaxing on the beach.---### Safety Considerations- **Weather Awareness:** Always check updated forecasts before departure. Be prepared to alter your itinerary based on weather conditions.- **Regulations:** Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations, especially around fishing zones and no-wake areas.- **Communication:** Keep a VHF radio on hand for updates on weather or other navigational advisories.- **Apps for Assistance:** Download savvy navvy among others for real-time navigation and route planning. Your safety on the water is paramount, and these tools are invaluable.### ConclusionThis voyage from Pompano Beach to Jensen Beach is not just about reaching a destination; it’s an opportunity to bask in Florida’s coastal beauty while ensuring your safety as a priority. This route is particularly suited for both novice and experienced boaters who appreciate the balance of enchanting sights, safe harbors, and delightful activities along the way. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water or a fun family adventure, adventure awaits you!