St. Simons Island to Tybee Island by boat

Pilotage Plan from St. Simons Island, GA to Tybee Island, GA

Route Overview

Prepare yourself for a thrilling voyage along the picturesque Georgia coast, traveling from the charming St. Simons Island to the welcoming shores of Tybee Island. This 40 nautical mile trip is ideal for experienced boaters looking for scenic views and unique explorations—though beginners can also enjoy this route with careful navigation.

Departure from St. Simons Island

Start your journey at the St. Simons Island Marina (coordinates: 31.2958, -81.3425), where the facilities are ample, and you’ll find a friendly harbor community. Before casting off, ensure that your vessel is well-stocked with essential supplies and that you check the local tide tables and weather conditions.

As you depart, keep an eye out for the historic St. Simons Lighthouse situated on the coast—it's a perfect backdrop for a farewell photo before setting out. The channel is well-marked, but always stay alert to ensure safe passage.

Points of Shelter on the Route

After leaving St. Simons, you have a couple of strategic bays where you can find shelter should the weather become unfavorable:

• Darien River: Approximately 14 miles into your journey, this broad river offers safe anchorage, with a quaint town that’s well worth a brief stop for some local seafood.

• Sapelo Sound: As you approach this sound, you'll find multiple inlets to anchor in, providing a protective harbor against inclement weather. It's also a great spot to explore the rare coastal ecosystems.

Navigating the Route

This stretch of water can be challenging due to shifting sands and underwater obstructions. As you proceed, make sure to adhere to the following navigational aids:

• Markers and Buoys: Pay close attention to the day markers and channel buoys. They will guide you along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The ICW will be your primary reference for safe navigation.

• Crossing the St. Andrews Sound: When you approach St. Andrews Sound, watch for tidal currents and shifting depths, particularly during low tide. Keep a safe distance from the shoals.

• Tybee Roads Approach: As you near Tybee Island, ensure you are vigilant of commercial vessel traffic, especially in the ship channel. The Tybee Island Light is a visible landmark and a great point of orientation as you enter the harbor.

Arrival at Tybee Island

Upon arrival at Tybee Island (coordinates: 32.0132, -80.8832), you will find the famous Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. Here, you can explore sandy beaches or take part in various water sports. The island is also rich in history, featuring Fort Pulaski National Monument and the Tybee Island Light.

Useful Apps for Navigation and Safety

While on your journey, ensure you have all the right tools for safety and route planning. I recommend using:

• Savvy Navvy: Offers accurate marine charts and route planning features, ensuring you’re always on the right path.

• Navionics: Great for navigating coastal waters with up-to-date charts.

• ActiveCaptain: A community where boaters share essential information about local hazards and points of interest.

Conclusion

This route from St. Simons Island to Tybee Island is not only stunning but also manageable for both seasoned and novice boaters willing to prepare adequately. With ample shelter opportunities, significant navigational aids, and unique attractions, it promises to be a memorable marine adventure. Remember that safety is key, so keep a weather eye out and enjoy the journey!