**Pilotage Plan from Port St. Lucie, FL, to Deerfield Beach, FL****Route Overview:**Embarking on a boat trip from Port St. Lucie to Deerfield Beach offers a delightful experience along Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This route is perfect for recreational boaters, particularly those seeking a mix of scenic beauty, safe navigation, and interesting stops along the way. The total journey stretches approximately 45 nautical miles and can be completed in a day, depending on your boat speed and time spent at various points of interest.### Departure Point: Port St. Lucie, FL1. **Navigational Aids:** Start by following the St. Lucie River, ensuring to observe the markers carefully as you exit the river into the ICW. Look for day markers and buoys indicating depth and directional changes. Be mindful of the shallow waters in some areas, especially further up the river.2. **Hazards:** Keep an eye out for local fishing boats as you proceed downstream, and maintain a safe distance from the banks to avoid encountering any submerged obstacles.### Along the Route:**1. Hutchinson Island**- **Shelter & Activities:** One of the first notable stops along your journey is Hutchinson Island, famous for its beautiful beaches and tranquil environment. If the weather turns inclement, you can find shelter in this area. There are opportunities for beachcombing or enjoying beachfront dining. **2. Fort Pierce Inlet**- **Navigational Considerations:** Upon approaching Fort Pierce, be cautious of the inlet's currents and tidal changes, especially during strong winds. Follow the channel markers strictly as it can become shallow swiftly. - **Points of Interest:** The Fort Pierce City Marina offers amenities for boaters if you decide to dock for a while. The nearby Art District has galleries, restaurants, and shopping opportunities.### Main ICW Navigation:Continuing along the Intracoastal Waterway, you are treated to stunning waterfront views of local homes and marine life. Maintain a watchful eye on the navigation aids as you progress southward.**3. Jensen Beach**- **Shelter:** Jensen Beach has a safe anchorage in the event the weather becomes troublesome. The beach offers a wonderful atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe and numerous outdoor activities such as paddleboarding and snorkeling.**4. St. Lucie Inlet State Park**- **Regulations:** This park is a protected area, and anchoring is allowed only in designated places. Respect wildlife and local laws. Here, you can explore beaches, biking trails, and many unspoiled natural environments.### Arrival Point: Deerfield Beach, FL1. **Approaching Deerfield Beach**: As you approach Deerfield Beach, you will notice the transition from rural charm to suburban vibrancy. Keep a lookout for the ICW markers indicating the last stretch of your journey. 2. **Navigational Aids:** Important markers include a series of red and green buoys guiding you toward the entrance of the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier. This pier not only stands as a landmark but offers great views and is perfect for some leisure activities post your docking.3. **Local Regulations:** Ensure compliance with any local restrictions regarding fishing and boating activities as you enter Deerfield Beach. There may be no-wake zones around the shore and bar areas.### Key Takeaways:- This trip emphasizes safety without sacrificing enjoyment. Each potential stop provides shelter options, and navigational warnings help ensure you stay on course amid potential hazards.- The sights and activities along the way enrich your journey, making for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation ideally suited for both beginner and experienced boaters navigating coastal waters.- Utilize useful navigation apps such as **Savvy Navvy**, **Navionics**, or **iNavX** for real-time updates and detailed charts to keep you informed during your trip.Enjoy the journey, the sights, and the serenity that Florida’s waterways have to offer as you cruise to the inviting shores of Deerfield Beach!