**Pilotage Plan: St. Goar to Koblenz, Germany****Overview of the Trip:**This enchanting journey along the Rhine River from St. Goar to Koblenz is perfect for boaters of moderate to experienced levels. The route covers approximately 25 kilometers (about 15.5 miles) of some of Germany's most stunning river scenery, with steep vineyards, charming towns, and historic castles lining the shores. It's an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Rhine while navigating through a well-marked river system.**Starting Point: St. Goar, Germany**- **Coordinates:** 50.1660° N, 7.6967° E- **Attractions:** Known for the Rheinfels Castle, which offers panoramic views over the river. You may want to explore the castle ruins or enjoy a leisurely coffee at a riverside café before setting off.**Weather & Sheltering Options:**Before initiating your journey, always check the weather forecast. The Rhine can be subject to swift changes in weather conditions. Should inclement weather arise, you have two notable points of shelter along your route:1. **Boppard:** Known as the 'Pearl of the Rhine,' this town is perfect for a safe stop. The small harbor is welcoming to visitors and offers secure moorage.2. **Lahnstein:** Located just before Koblenz, Lahnstein has nice facilities for boaters and serves as a good shelter if conditions take a turn.**Nautical Route Description:**1. **Departure from St. Goar:** - As you set off, ensure your navigation aids are up and functional. The markers along this stretch of the river are reliable, but more significant landmarks like the Lorelei Rock (just to the south) should guide your path. - The current here can be swift, especially around bends, so maintain a safe speed, watching for any floating debris.2. **Passing Boppard:** - Keep an eye out for cruise ships and larger vessels as you approach Boppard. The harbor is well-marked, and you’ll enjoy stunning views of the old town and the famous vineyards surrounding it. - Spending time here allows for exploration of fine dining and local wines; it's a popular destination so watch for other boats manoeuvring in the area.3. **Entering Lahnstein:** - The approach to Lahnstein is marked by picturesque scenery and may require attention due to the merging currents of the river tributaries. - Again, maintaining communication with VHF radio is advisable, especially on busier weekends, as this area sees boat traffic increase significantly.4. **Arrival at Koblenz:** - You’ll notice the landscape changing as you approach Koblenz, where the Moselle River joins the Rhine. The confluence is pronounced, and the currents may intensify, so exercise caution. - Koblenz is home to the famous Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where you can find a harbor that accommodates multiple vessels. From here, the city boasts lush gardens and historical sites worth exploring.**Navigational Considerations:**- **Navigational Aids:** Throughout the journey, maintain awareness of buoys, beacons, and navigation signs that guide vessels along the river. These aids can change, so regularly check your navigation app and local guides.- **Local Regulations:** Speed limits are enforced, particularly near populated areas like Boppard and Koblenz. Be mindful of no-wake zones and other restrictions that may be in place.- **Wildlife and Debris:** Look out for river wildlife, including birds and fishers. It’s essential to navigate slowly in these areas to avoid accidents. Driftwood and other debris are common, especially after storms, so vigilant scanning ahead is recommended.**Recommended Apps:**To enhance your navigation and safety while on the water, using quality boating apps is highly beneficial. I recommend:- **Savvy Navvy:** Ideal for planning routes and managing waypoints, this app offers comprehensive charts and navigational details.- **Navionics:** A reputable choice for marine charts, it allows for easy route planning along with depth contours.- **Windy:** For real-time weather updates, Windy helps you stay informed about any changing conditions.**Conclusion:**The stretch from St. Goar to Koblenz provides a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and safe navigation. With its well-marked routes and welcoming shelters, seasoned boaters and adventurous newbies alike will find this journey rewarding and enjoyable. Prioritize safety by using the right equipment, keeping tabs on the weather, and respecting local regulations, and you’re sure to have a memorable experience on the Rhine!