**Pilotage Plan: St. Joseph, MI to South Haven, MI****Route Overview**This beautiful journey along Lake Michigan from St. Joseph to South Haven offers picturesque views, vibrant local culture, and essential shelter opportunities, making it a perfect cruise for recreational boaters and those pursuing a relaxing day on the water. Spanning approximately 12 nautical miles, this route is particularly well-suited for intermediate boaters who are comfortable navigating open waters while appreciating the stunning shoreline sights.---**Section 1: Departure from St. Joseph**Starting your trip in St. Joseph, which is known for its charming harbor and friendly atmosphere, you'll want to ensure you're equipped with charts and navigation tools. Before you set out, note the following local navigation aids, which are critical as you exit the harbor:- **St. Joseph River Mouth Light (43.1572° N, 86.4699° W)**: This lighthouse will guide you safely as you navigate from the river to the open lake.- **Stay Clear of the Sandy Area**: Be cautious of shallow bars near the river mouth—stick to marked channels.Make sure to check the local weather conditions before departure to ensure smooth sailing.---**Section 2: On the Water - Navigational Aids and Considerations**As you head northward up the coast, keep the following navigational aids and points of interest in mind:- **Navigational Buoys**: Maintain your course by utilizing the green and red buoys, which line the shipping channels—ensure you understand the lateral system, keeping green to port when heading upstream.- **Warren Dunes State Park (approx. 8 nautical miles north)**: A scenic landmark featuring stunning dunes that rise dramatically from the lakefront. While you can’t land directly, it’s an excellent sight to behold and an optional detour for swimming or relaxation if conditions permit.---**Section 3: Shelter Opportunities** The coastal waters can change rapidly, so knowing your options for safe harbor is vital:- **Harbor Country**: Just southwest of your midpoint, the area around Lakeside has several sheltered ports, should winds pick up unexpectedly.- **South Haven Harbor**: The entrance to South Haven is wide and well-marked. It offers excellent protection from inclement weather and numerous public docks for easy access to amenities once you arrive.---**Section 4: Arrival and Docking at South Haven**As you approach South Haven, watch for the iconic **South Haven Lighthouse**, a prominent red structure at the harbor's end. This is a great visual reference point as you navigate into the harbor. Once you arrive:- **Docking Options**: There are multiple marinas, such as **South Haven Municipal Marina**, which offers transient dockage and access to facilities like restrooms, showers, and dining options.- **Exploring South Haven**: Once docked, explore local attractions such as the South Haven Light and the Michigan Maritime Museum for a dose of local history. The bustling downtown area is just a short walk away, packed with shops and eateries.---**Section 5: Safety and Regulations**Safety should always be the top priority on your journey:- **Life Jackets**: Ensure you and your passengers have properly fitting life jackets readily available. - **Check Local Conditions**: Always review the NOAA weather report and any lake advisories prior to setting out.- **Know your Rights and Responsibilities**: Understand local boating regulations regarding speed limits, no-wake zones, and area-specific guidelines—these can vary significantly in crowded areas like South Haven. ---**Recommended Apps**For extra navigation support, consider utilizing the following apps on your journey:- **Savvy Navvy**: A handy tool for route planning, it enables you to plot your course with real-time weather data and tide information.- Additional apps like Navionics or Windy can enhance your navigation experience, but Savvy Navvy should be your primary choice.In conclusion, this route from St. Joseph to South Haven not only serves as an inspiring journey through nature’s beauty but also teaches essential sailing skills in safely navigating coastal waters. Enjoy your trip, stay safe, and have fun exploring the stunning shores of Lake Michigan!