### Pilotage Plan: From Portofino to Sestri Levante#### OverviewSet against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Riviera, this route from Portofino to Sestri Levante is not only a cruising dream, but also a journey imbued with magnificent landscapes, charming seaside towns, and numerous opportunities for safe harbor. This passage is particularly suitable for recreational boaters with moderate sailing experience who are keen on coastal navigation and exploring local attractions.#### Departure: Portofino, GE, IT- **Coordinates**: 9.209972, 44.302720- **Notable Points of Interest**: The picturesque harbor of Portofino is flanked by vibrant colored buildings and is initially sheltered, making it an excellent place to begin your journey. Before you set sail, consider a stroll through the charming streets or a coffee by the harbor. Don’t forget to visit **Castello Brown** for panoramic views and quick snapshots.#### Marine Hazards & Navigation ConsiderationsAs you head out from Portofino, keep in mind the following navigational aids:- **Lighthouse of Portofino**: A key landmark, this can help in confirming your position. It's located on the southern part of the promontory.- **Isola di Portofino**: Just off the coast, you should remain at least one nautical mile away to avoid rocky outcrops and ensure safe transit.#### Route to Sestri LevanteThe distance from Portofino to Sestri Levante is approximately 12 nautical miles, with the route hugging the beautiful coastline. Make sure to favor the deeper waters when navigating around any capes or shoals. 1. **Navigating Along the Coastline**: - You will start your passage heading approximately east-southeast, keeping the coast to starboard. - Be attentive to **Cabo di Noli** and **Capo di Santa Margherita** as you round these points—these can present tidal currents that may affect your vessel if the wind picks up.2. **Points of Interest Along the Route**: - **Santa Margherita Ligure**: A vibrant nearby town with a lovely waterfront promenade. A great spot to stop for lunch, grab some local gelato, or visit the **Villa Durazzo**. - **Bays & Shelters**: Should the weather turn inclement, consider taking refuge in **Baia di Paraggi** or **Baia del Silenzio**; both provide reasonable shelter and are scenic stops along the way.3. **Continuing Toward Sestri Levante**: - As you approach **Sestri Levante**, you’ll navigate past the glittering waters of **Lago di Chiavari**, providing a breathtaking view but also requiring you to approach with caution due to shallow areas. - Use **Buoy Markings** to navigate the channel safely towards Sestri: keep your eye on the navigation lights marking the entrance to the harbor.#### Arrival: Sestri Levante, GE, IT- **Coordinates**: 9.385798, 44.270224- **Final Stop Considerations**: The harbor of Sestri Levante can get busy during peak season, so it's advisable to contact the marina in advance for berthing arrangements. **Baia del Silenzio**—the quiet bay—makes for a fantastic swimming spot to unwind after your voyage.#### Safety Tips & Regulations- **Weather Monitoring**: Always check the local weather conditions and forecasts before you set out. The Italian Riviera can experience sudden changes in weather.- **VHF Radio Communication**: Maintain a listening watch on VHF Channel 16, particularly during your approach to Sestri Levante.- **Navigational Apps**: Consider using navigation applications like **Savvy Navvy** to plot your route in real-time. Other recommended apps include **Navionics** and **Windy**, which offer various features to enhance your journey.This journey from Portofino to Sestri Levante embraces not just safe navigation along the stunning coastline but offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, making it an unforgettable boating experience. Please ensure that safety remains your priority as you traverse these beautiful waters!