**Pilotage Plan: Riviera Beach, Florida to Jupiter, Florida****Route Overview:**This trip from Riviera Beach to Jupiter spans approximately 20 nautical miles along Florida’s stunning coastline, making it a delightful experience for sailors who appreciate both the scenic views and the unique ecosystems of the area. The route is suitable for cruisers, experienced sailors, and families looking to enjoy a day on the water.### Key Considerations:1. **Weather Awareness:** Always check the weather forecast before departure. Florida weather can be unpredictable, especially during summer months with sudden storms. If conditions are unfavorable, Be aware that heading into nearby bays such as Lake Worth Lagoon or the Intracoastal Waterway can provide shelter from rough seas.2. **Local Navigational Aids:** Pay close attention to the buoys and markers along the route, especially as you navigate through the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The waterways are well-marked, but some areas may be shallow, so keeping a watchful eye on your chartplotter or navigation app is advisable. Make sure to adhere to the speed limits in the ICW, typically 6 knots in no-wake zones.### Start: Riviera Beach, FloridaAs you depart from Riviera Beach, pay homage to Peanut Island, a local gem boasting beautiful beaches and a historical Coast Guard station. This can be a wonderful first stop if you want to stretch your legs or enjoy some time ashore before heading north.### The Route:1. **Peanut Island to Lake Worth Inlet:** Head north from Riviera Beach, keeping Peanut Island to starboard. Navigate around the Lake Worth Inlet, which allows vessels to enter the Atlantic ocean. Ensure to monitor the tides closely here, as strong currents can impact entry and exit.2. **Through Lake Worth Lagoon:** After passing the inlet, continue to explore the Lake Worth Lagoon, a great place to observe wildlife including manatees and dolphins. This area offers sheltered spots in case you need to anchor and regroup. Look for docks or marinas like the Lake Worth Municipal Dock for restrooms and facilities.3. **Navigating to the Intracoastal Waterway:** After passing the lagoon, head east towards the Intracoastal Waterway. The ICW is a well-protected channel that runs parallel to the coast and is ideal for smaller vessels. Look for navigational markers indicating the channel, and keep a steady lookout for other traffic, particularly during busy weekends.### Points of Interest Along the Way:- **Flagler Memorial Bridge:** As you approach Palm Beach, take a moment to appreciate the Flagler Memorial Bridge. It’s not only a picturesque landmark but also a great reminder of the area’s rich history. - **Boynton Beach Inlet:** Located further north, this is another option for those looking to venture out to sea or take a break from the ICW. There's plenty of opportunity for fishing if you’re looking to drop a line.### Final Approach to Jupiter, Florida:As you make your way towards Jupiter, navigate carefully around the Jupiter Inlet, which can have strong currents. The inlet leads to sandy beaches and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and surfing. ### Points of Interest in Jupiter:You may want to stop at the Jupiter Lighthouse, an iconic structure that offers stunning views of the area. Also, consider visiting some local restaurants or parks as you dock.### Safety Precautions:- Ensure everyone on board is wearing a life jacket before departure.- Carry a VHF radio for communication with other boats and emergency services.- Familiarize yourself with local laws, such as fishing licenses if you plan to fish, as well as boating regulations relevant to the intracoastal waterways.### Navigation Apps:For smooth sailing, utilize navigation applications such as **savvy navvy**, Navionics, or C-MAP to help you navigate the route accurately and monitor marine traffic, weather updates, and tides.This trip offers the perfect mix of a relaxed cruise and exciting exploration, all while ensuring safety is your top priority. Take it slow, enjoy the stunning natural scenery, and have an unforgettable time on the water!