### Pilotage Plan: Red Wing, Minnesota to St. Paul, Minnesota**Route Overview** This journey from Red Wing to St. Paul is a beautiful and scenic 20-25 nautical mile route along the majestic Mississippi River, making it an excellent choice for pleasure cruisers, anglers, and sightseeing enthusiasts alike. The route is well suited for recreational boaters looking for a leisurely day on the water as well as those exploring the scenic wonders of this storied river.---**Key Sections of the Route**1. **Departure from Red Wing** Begin your adventure at the Red Wing Marina. Before setting off, ensure your boat is seaworthy, and all safety gear is checked, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit. Red Wing itself is a charming town with beautiful bluffs and the historic Red Wing Pottery.2. **Navigational Aids and Route Highlights** As you depart, pay attention to the following navigational aids: - **Red Wing Lighthouse:** A notable land mark near the start of your journey. This lighthouse serves as a reference point and guides vessels safely along the river. - **Marking buoys:** Keep an eye out for the buoys marking the main channel of the Mississippi. Following these will prevent grounding in shallower waters.3. **Cannon and Maiden Lakes** About halfway to St. Paul, you can stop by Cannon Lake, located to your east. It's an excellent place to take a break and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Maiden Lake is also a small detour but provides a beautiful area for relaxation and picnicking.4. **Shelter Points** If the weather turns sour, consider using the following bays as temporary shelters: - **Lake Pepin:** This expansive lake presents a sizeable refuge with anchor points, should strong currents or storms arise. - **Bays near Frontenac State Park:** Another excellent option for seeking shelter and observing the unique wildlife habitats.5. **Approaching St. Paul** The final stretch of your journey will lead you into the metropolitan area of St. Paul. Upon arrival, traverse past the historic waterfront and notice the majestic homes on the bluffs. St. Paul is rich in history, and you may consider a stop at the famous Harriet Island Regional Park, offering parks, trails, and places to tie up for a while.---**Safety Considerations** Navigating the Mississippi can present various challenges, including currents, wind changes, and passing commercial vessels. Always maintain a lookout for other crafts, as barges often traverse these waters. Follow the river regulations set by the Coast Guard, especially around the locks and dams. Ensure you are familiar with the rules pertaining to vessel speeds in designated zones.**Local Customs and Regulations** When fishing or stopping at parks along the route, be sure to comply with local regulations regarding permits and fishing licenses. Boaters should also be aware of no-wake zones and adhere to speed limits, especially near marinas and residential areas.---**Points of Interest and Activities** Both Red Wing and St. Paul offer various activities. In Red Wing, consider visiting local shops and breweries or take a hike along the bluff trails. Conversely, in St. Paul, explore the Science Museum, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Riverfront Trail.---**Recommended Boating Apps** While navigating the waters, you may find these apps helpful for safe and enjoyable boating: - **Savvy Navvy:** Perfect for route planning and real-time navigation adjustments. - **Navionics:** Great for charts and discovering local points of interest along the river. - **Windy:** Excellent for monitoring real-time weather conditions on the water.This route from Red Wing to St. Paul offers not only stunning sights and local attractions but also navigational learning opportunities. As a boat master sailing on this beautiful stretch of the Mississippi, you will find it rewarding and filled with memorable experiences. Stay safe and enjoy the journey!