**Pilotage Plan: Portovenere, SP, IT to Lerici, SP, IT****Overview:**This delightful coastal route from Portovenere to Lerici is perfect for sailors and boaters looking for a tranquil experience amidst stunning scenery and historical charm. Covering approximately 8 nautical miles, this journey takes you across the beautiful Gulf of La Spezia, weaving through inviting bays, historic sites, and picturesque views of the Tuscan coastline. Suitable for intermediate boaters with basic navigation skills, this route offers both safety and splendid exploration.---**Section 1: Departure from Portovenere**Starting from Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking views of ancient cliffs, beautifully preserved architecture, and the sparkling waters of the Ligurian Sea. Before you set sail, heed a few safety tips:- **Weather Check:** Always ensure you have the latest weather forecasts. Strong winds can develop quickly in these coastal areas.- **Navigational Aids:** Take advantage of the marked buoys along the way, particularly as you exit Portovenere. Make sure to have your navigation aids powered up and functioning—GPS and a reliable nautical chart are essential.**Bays and Shelters:**As you leave Portovenere, nearby is the small, sheltered cove of **Cala dell’Una**. This is an excellent place to stop in case of rough weather or just to take a break. Its shallow waters may provide a calmer respite.---**Section 2: Navigating the Gulf of La Spezia**As you navigate towards Lerici, the Gulf of La Spezia offers a rich tapestry of maritime scenery. Keep an eye on the prominent **La Spezia Naval Base**—stay clear of restricted areas, such as direct approaches, where naval vessels frequently operate. - **Caution with Traffic:** The Gulf is occasionally busy with commercial shipping, so maintain a lookout for larger vessels and adhere to marked shipping lanes.Notable landmarks include:- **Palmaria Island**: Just off Portovenere’s shore, this island offers stunning views and is perfect for a quick excursion.- **Tino Island**: Best appreciated from the water, known for its lighthouse. Be mindful of surrounding waters, as there may be strong currents.**Safety Note:** If encountering unexpected weather changes, the gulf’s larger bays such as **Fossola Bay** offer respite. It’s advisable to anchor in well-marked areas and prepare your vessel to ride out rough patches if necessary.---**Section 3: Approaching Lerici**As you bear witness to the increasingly picturesque views of Lerici coming into focus, your navigational considerations remain critical. The approach to Lerici involves being attentive to:- **Navigational Buoys and Marks:** The harbor is well-marked; maintaining a course aligned with the channel buoys is vital.- **Harbor Traffic:** Watch out for local fishing boats and pleasure craft. The area around the Lerici marina can become busy, particularly during the evening.On arrival, the old town of Lerici awaits! Spend some time exploring the historical castle (Castello di Lerici), perched on the cliff above the harbor. Don’t miss the local eateries offering fresh seafood and pasta, a perfect way to unwind after your journey.---**Conclusion:**This route offers both beauty and adventure while remaining mindful of safety at sea. It’s perfect for those looking to soak in the scenery of the Ligurian coastline. With good preparation and adherence to navigational guidelines, your trip from Portovenere to Lerici promises to be an unforgettable experience.For navigation assistance, consider using savvy navvy along with other boating apps such as Navionics and Aqua Map. They can help ensure you're informed and prepared as you embark on your journey.Safe travels and enjoy the waters!