**Pilotage Plan: From Sault Ste. Marie, ON, CA to Drummond Island, MI, US****Overview:**This yacht cruising itinerary takes you from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, a bustling center of commerce and culture, to Drummond Island, Michigan, renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. This trip is perfectly suited for experienced boaters familiar with local waters, but it can also provide a thrill for intermediate cruisers, thanks to the winding passages and the chance to explore captivating landmarks along the way. **Starting Point: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario** Embarking from Sault Ste. Marie allows you to experience the rich history and stunning views of the St. Mary’s River. As you prepare for departures, make sure to check in with local marinas for any updates or advisories, especially concerning weather conditions.**Key Points of Interest:**- **Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site:** Before you depart, consider exploring the foothills of this historic canal. It offers great insight into navigation history. **Navigational Considerations:**- Adjust your departure based on local weather forecasts, especially wind conditions, as they can lead to rough waters around the mouth of the river.- Departure should be later in the morning to catch stable weather and avoid rush hour through the shipping channels.**Route Overview:**Leave Sault Ste. Marie, heading Southward down the St. Mary’s River, moving towards the northern reaches of Lake Huron. This stretch is markedly scenic, and as you navigate south, be mindful of the following hazards and notable landmarks:1. **Navigating the St. Mary’s River:** - Maintain a safe distance from the shipping lanes. Pay attention to commercial vessels and their movement, particularly near the locks. - Keep an eye out for the **Sault Ste. Marie Shipping Channel Buoys**, which will guide you safely southward.2. **Rounding Point Iroquois Lighting:** - As you exit the river, you’ll encounter the Iroquois Point lighthouse. This historical landmark provides valuable visibility and serves as a good reference point. 3. **Take Shelter at Point Aux Chenes:** - If conditions worsen as you enter Lake Huron, Point Aux Chenes offers a reliable shelter option. This relatively sheltered bay can provide safe haven from inclement weather. 4. **Exploration of Mackinac Island (Optional Detour):** - A slight detour could lead you toward Mackinac Island, a unique location rich in history. It’s an incredible spot for provisioning with supplies and enjoying local attractions like the famous fudge shops. 5. **Navigational Aids:** - Watch for the **Green and Red channel markers** as they delineate safe navigation paths. The **Catawba Island Lighthouse** will also serve as a critical landmark.6. **Approaching Drummond Island:** - As you make your way towards Drummond Island, the **Lighthouse on Drummond Island** will be prominent. - Opt for entry into the **Moffit Bay** for another potential shelter if conditions become unpredictable.**Local Regulations:**- Be aware of any fishing regulations in both the Ontario and Michigan waters, especially if you're planning to cast a line while en route. - Confirm any customs regulations, as you will be crossing an international border. Ensure proper documentation is accessible for all passengers.**Conclusion:**This itinerary from Sault Ste. Marie to Drummond Island offers not only a safe passage through stunning natural landscapes but also enriching opportunities to engage with local history and culture. Smart planning will keep your adventure exciting while prioritizing safety. Boaters may consider using apps like Savvy Navvy, Navionics, or Windy to enhance planning and route tracking. Your trip promises to be a memorable experience filled with scenic beauty and potential exploration.Safe travels and happy boating!