### Pilotage Plan: Saint Petersburg, Florida to Treasure Island, Florida**Route Overview:**This seamless cruise from Saint Petersburg to Treasure Island allows you to enjoy Florida's coastal scenery while keeping safety and navigation as top priorities. This route is particularly well-suited for recreational boaters looking to relax on the water, enjoy the beautiful views, and potentially spot local wildlife. This stretch is approximately 7 nautical miles, making it perfect for a half-day trip.**Points of Interest:**1. **Vinoy Park** (Saint Petersburg): Before you set sail, take a moment to enjoy this picturesque park. It's right on the waterfront and offers scenic views of the marina and downtown Saint Petersburg. 2. **Albert Whitted Airport**: Just off the shore in downtown Saint Petersburg, observe the small jets and seaplanes taking off and landing. It’s a unique site to see. 3. **The St. Pete Pier**: As you cruise out, don’t miss the iconic pier. It’s a great place for a quick dock if you’d like to stretch your legs or grab a bite at one of its restaurants. 4. **Shell Key Preserve**: Slightly off your direct path, but accessible, this barrier island is a perfect location for a relaxing stop to explore nature trails, beautiful beaches, and the local wildlife—ideal for birdwatching.5. **Treasure Island Beach**: Upon arrival, enjoy the pristine sands and beach facilities at Treasure Island. This spot is excellent for family-friendly activities, including swimming and picnicking.**Navigation Considerations:**As you navigate this route, you’ll want to keep in mind the following essential points:- **Navigational Aids**: The waters between Saint Petersburg and Treasure Island are well-marked. Pay close attention to the buoys and markers indicating boat channels and shallow areas. Notable aids include: - **St. Petersburg Main Channel Buoys**: These help guide you from the marina to the Gulf. Maintain a watchful eye for navigational markers, as some areas have shifting sands and should be navigated diligently. - **ICW Markers**: Maintain awareness of the Intracoastal Waterway markers to stay within safe channels.- **Weather Awareness**: Always check the weather prior to departure. This area can experience sudden squalls, especially in the summer. If conditions worsen, consider making a quick detour to: - **Tampa Bay**: An expansive area that offers numerous safe harbors; several marinas and protected bays are available.- **Local Regulations**: Be mindful of the No-Wake zones, particularly near the city and residential areas. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of swimmers and other boaters. Remember that the speed limit in close proximity to docks and piers is typically 5 mph.**Safety Tips:**1. **Life Jackets**: Ensure you have enough personal flotation devices for all adults and children on board.2. **First Aid Kit**: Always travel with a well-stocked first aid kit in case of minor injuries.3. **Communication**: A VHF radio is recommended to stay updated with weather conditions and communicate with other vessels as needed.**Useful Boating Apps:**To enhance your navigation and safety while cruising, it is highly recommended to download these apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: An intuitive app that simplifies plotting your course, checking tide tables, and understanding local regulations.- **Navionics**: Known for its detailed charting capabilities, this app is a favorite among serious boaters for its comprehensive maps.- **Weather Apps**: Make sure to keep an eye out for local weather updates and radar, securing your trip against unexpected weather changes.Embarking on this journey from Saint Petersburg to Treasure Island promises both the thrill of navigation and an enjoyable time spent on the water. With proper planning and adherence to safety measures, this trip can be both memorable and secure. Happy boating!