### Pilotage Plan: Saint Petersburg, Florida to Ruskin, Florida**Route Overview:**Embarking on a boat trip from Saint Petersburg to Ruskin is a journey that offers both serene coastal scenery and opportunities for exploration. With a distance of approximately 25 nautical miles, this route is suitable for skilled boaters who enjoy the thrill of navigating through dynamic waterways while also prioritizing safety and adherence to local regulations. **Key Sections of the Route:**1. **Departure from Saint Petersburg:** - Starting at the well-equipped marina in Saint Petersburg, boaters should ensure their vessel is properly stocked with safety gear, including life jackets, a first-aid kit, flares, and a VHF radio. - Before leaving, confirm weather conditions and tides as this can significantly affect navigation. The entrance to Tampa Bay is bustling with boat traffic, so remain vigilant.2. **Navigating Tampa Bay:** - As you head out of the marina, navigate carefully past prominent landmarks including the iconic St. Pete Pier and the bustling downtown area. - Be aware of navigational aids, primarily the Tampa Bay entrance buoys that guide vessels safely through the channel. Look for markings like “Tampa Bay Cut” which signal deeper channels. - Monitor your chartplotter or use apps like savvy navvy for real-time navigation updates.3. **Bayside Points of Interest:** - **Egmont Key State Park:** This beautiful island is a perfect spot to drop anchor if weather conditions change unexpectedly. It offers beautiful beaches, historic landmarks like a lighthouse, and is a designated wildlife refuge. - **Caladesi Island State Park:** Should you choose to take a detour, Caladesi Island can be accessed via the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). It's a serene spot with walking trails and an untouched beach.4. **ICW Navigation to Ruskin:** - Transition to the Intracoastal Waterway as you approach the southern tip of Tampa Bay. Stay within marked channels to avoid shoals and submerged hazards typical in Florida's coastal environment. - Pay close attention to “no wake” zones, especially near popular spots like New Pass and the channel markers leading to Little Manatee River. These regulations are in place to protect the environment and support local wildlife.5. **Arriving at Ruskin:** - As you enter the vicinity of Ruskin, keep an eye out for local marinas offering transient slips if you plan to stay overnight. The Ruskin Inlet is shallow, and careful navigation is required to prevent grounding. - Local attractions such as the Manatee Viewing Center and the nearby Hillsborough River are great stops for families and nature lovers.**Safety Advisories:**- Always file a float plan with someone onshore detailing your route and expected return.- Keep your VHF radio tuned to channel 16 for emergency communication and updates on traffic and weather from the Coast Guard.- Check for local advisories specific to Ruskin that could affect your visit—especially concerning tides and currents which can be particularly strong.**Final Recommendations:**This route from Saint Petersburg to Ruskin is an excellent choice for seasoned boaters looking to experience the unique natural beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast while ensuring safety is the primary focus. With all its attractions, landmarks, and beautiful spots to seek refuge, this journey is both enriching and delightful. Remember, using apps like savvy navvy will enhance your navigation experience, providing you with access to weather data, charts, and other critical information to make your trip seamless. Enjoy your adventure!