### Pilotage Plan for a Boat Trip from Providence, RI, US to Exumas, BS#### Route OverviewEmbarking from the historic waters of Providence, Rhode Island, to the serene beauty of the Exumas in the Bahamas offers an exciting blend of coastal cruising and island-hopping adventures. This route showcases the best of the Atlantic, with stunning views, protected bays, and a variety of potential stopovers that will keep your journey engaging and safe. #### Starting Point: Providence, RI, US**Coordinates:** 41.8175 N, 71.4023 W Providence Harbor is a bustling hub with a rich maritime history, offering marinas well-equipped for provisioning and refueling before commencing the journey.#### Notable Points of Interest Along the Route1. **Narragansett Bay** - Just south of Providence, this expansive bay offers numerous safe havens for shelter. Noteworthy stops include Wickford Village, a charming historic town with shops and dining.2. **Block Island** - Approximately 12 nautical miles from the mainland, Block Island is a perfect midway point offering beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and the iconic Southeast Lighthouse. Shelter is well-presented here in the Great Salt Pond.3. **Long Island Sound** - As you navigate through the Sound, be mindful of currents and busy shipping lanes. Notable destinations include the picturesque towns of Greenport, NY, and Stamford, CT, both boasting marinas and local culture.4. **Port Jefferson, NY** - A quaint harbor for a short visit, offering shops, restaurants, and opportunities for land exploration. Watch for ferry traffic in this busy harbor.5. **New York Harbor** - Approaching this iconic city involves careful navigation through heavily trafficked waters. Key sites include the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You may want to take advantage of Anchorages at Liberty State Park, which are popular for viewing the skyline.6. **Ambrose Channel** - As you enter the Atlantic Ocean, this channel leads you past Sandy Hook, NJ. Keep an eye on marking buoys and speed restrictions. 7. **Cape May, NJ** - A notable stop for traditional beach-town charm, offering respite with its beautiful coastline and maritime attractions. Several marinas are available here for services and overnight stays.8. **Chesapeake Bay / Potomac River** - This area has a multitude of potential stops: Annapolis is famous for its sailing heritage, and Washington D.C. can be accessed via the Potomac, giving access to much of American history.9. **Outer Banks, NC** - After navigating the infamous Cape Hatteras, the Outer Banks provide great points of interest for leisure and shelter with multiple inlets.10. **Grand Bahama Island** - A great place to clear customs before heading south towards the Exumas. Well-known for its beaches and local flare.#### Final Destination: Exumas, BS**Coordinates:** 23.5030 N, 70.6584 W The Exumas are a paradise full of azure waters, coral reefs, and pristine remote islands. Upon arrival, you can anchor in the protected waters between the islands, providing a safe haven against open ocean swells.#### Navigation ConsiderationsWhile the Atlantic route offers incredible views, it comes with navigation challenges. - **Navigational Aids:** Regularly reference your charts and keep GPS at the forefront. It’s imperative to stay aware of navigational buoys, especially around busy ports and while threading your way through narrow channels. - **Weather Watch:** Always monitor weather patterns. Between the Northeast and Bahamas, conditions can change quickly. Use marine weather apps like Windy and NOAA marine forecasts for accurate updates.- **Local Regulations:** Each stop has its own regulations concerning anchoring and mooring. Check local guidelines before entering new waters, especially in busy ports like New York City.- **Hazards:** Be particularly cautious about shifting sands and shallow waters in the Outer Banks and around Bahamian cays. Local knowledge and charts will be your best allies.#### Safety First!Safety is the utmost priority on this picturesque voyage. Always wear your life jackets when offshore, keep a well-stocked first aid kit, and maintain regular radio contact with local marinas or other boats. Having the right tools is essential for a successful journey; consider using nautical apps including Savvy Navvy for navigation and sea weather tracking.This trip perfectly caters to seasoned cruisers and adventurous sailors looking to combine the thrills of coastal navigation with the serene beauty of island living, all while maintaining the utmost regard for safety and preparedness on the water. Happy sailing!