### Pilotage Plan from Saint Petersburg, Florida to Apollo Beach, Florida**Route Overview** Setting sail from the vibrant waters of Saint Petersburg, this journey to Apollo Beach is a delightful and safe route ideal for recreational boaters, especially those seeking a well-marked, scenic passage with ample opportunities for stops. The distance to be covered is approximately 25 nautical miles.---**Departure from Saint Petersburg, FL** Begin your adventure at **Saint Petersburg**, a known hub for boaters, rich with marinas and amenities. Before departing, ensure you check local weather conditions, as sudden changes can occur. **Navigational Aids:** Start at the Saint Petersburg Municipal Marina, which boasts a variety of navigational aids and provides excellent services. Notably, keep an eye on the **St. Petersburg Pier** as you set out. Also, ensure you’re aware of the nearby **Southeast Channel (FL) Light** marking the entrance to Tampa Bay, which is critical for safe navigation.**Points of Interest:** Stop by the **Dali Museum** if time permits before heading out, showcasing a vast collection of Salvador Dali’s art. ---**Cruising Through Tampa Bay** As you enter Tampa Bay, follow the **Tampa Bay Ship Channel**, marked by buoys and day markers. The channel is well-defined, offering deeper waters, making it ideal for all types of vessels, from smaller boats to larger yachts.**Notable Stops:** **Egmont Key State Park** lies to the southwest and is a fantastic place to stop for a picnic or swim if time allows. The island is home to beautiful beaches and historic ruins of a lighthouse, providing a dose of history amid natural beauty.**Navigation Hazards:** Keep an eye out for commercial traffic entering and exiting the channel, particularly large vessels and cargo ships. It’s advisable to listen to local VHF radio channels for any navigational updates.---**Entering Lower Tampa Bay** Continuing southeast, you’ll arrive at the crossroads of **Mullet Key**, where the waters begin to quiet down, providing a brief respite from the hustle of commercial traffic.**Shelter Options:** If weather conditions shift unexpectedly, **Boca Ciega Bay** to the south offers excellent shelter. Sheltered spots can be found near **Fort De Soto Park**, another great location for nature walks and beach outings.---**Approaching Apollo Beach** Navigating further, you'll maintain a steady course towards Apollo Beach. As you pass **Big Bend Power Station**, you’ll come across distinct landmarks that help gauge your position. The structure is not only an industrial landmark but also marks a transitional area where you transition from open water to more shallow coastlines.**Local Regulations:** As you approach Apollo Beach, pay close attention to local speed limits and wildlife zones, particularly around the **Tampa Bay estuaries**. Watch for manatees in shallow waters, especially during the warmer months.---**Arrival at Apollo Beach** Upon entering the **Apollo Beach** area, you will find the **Apollo Beach Nature Preserve**, a splendid location for onshore exploration. The marina facilities here are well-equipped, and you can enjoy the local eateries offering fresh seafood.**Final Checks:** Always perform a final digest of the weather forecast and check your fuel and supplies before venturing out. Ensure everyone onboard is briefed on safety procedures, including the use of life jackets, especially for those in smaller vessels.---**Recommended Boating Apps:** For optimal planning while at sea, consider using boating apps such as **savvy navvy**, which offers excellent navigation support, as well as **Navionics** and **Waterway Guide**. These resources provide navigational charts, hazard alerts, and points of interest that can greatly enhance your journey.**Conclusion:** This route from Saint Petersburg to Apollo Beach is not only safe for recreational boaters but also rewards them with breathtaking sights, charming stops, and a memorable experience on Florida’s beautiful waterways. Stay vigilant, enjoy the scenery, and safe travels!