**Pilotage Plan: Stockton, CA to Suisun City, CA****Overview:**This journey takes you through the meandering waterways of California's Delta, showcasing both stunning natural scenery and vibrant communities. The journey will take you approximately 25 nautical miles and is suitable for experienced boaters who enjoy navigating rivers and are prepared for varying water conditions. With a mix of industrial and scenic landscapes, this route is rich with opportunities for local exploration and swift access to sheltering bays should the weather change unexpectedly.**Route and Navigation:****Starting Point: Stockton, CA**- Your adventure begins at the Port of Stockton, a historic shipping hub. Make sure to check the local tide tables and weather forecasts before departure.**Transit Details:**1. **Leave the Port of Stockton:** - As you navigate from the port, heed the navigational aids, including buoys marking channel entries and exits. Stay within the marked shipping channel to avoid sandbars and shallow waters.2. **Entering the San Joaquin River:** - Once clear of the port, proceed down the San Joaquin River, which offers you peaceful views of the surrounding landscape. Look out for local wildlife, including birds and possibly river otters.3. **Shelter Bay Option: Lathrop, CA:** - About 5 nautical miles into your journey, consider stopping at Lathrop's Marina for a quick rest. This is an excellent spot to refuel and grab a bite before heading further into the Delta. The marina offers basic amenities and protection from unexpected weather changes.4. **Steering Toward the Deep Water Channel:** - Continue navigating southeast, heading towards the confluence of the San Joaquin River and the deep-water channel towards the Sacramento River. Maintain awareness of commercial traffic, which can be active in this area.5. **Navigational Aids:** - Watch for significant marks such as the Red and Green channel markers and buoys; these indicate safe passages and potential hazards. 6. **Notable Points of Interest:** - As you travel, consider making small detours to explore picturesque locations such as Van Sickle Island, which is a beautiful natural area known for its wildlife. It presents delightful opportunities for birdwatching and offers scenic picnic spots.**Midway Shelter Options::**- **Mandeville Tip:** This area provides calm waters and is a nice spot to pause if the weather begins to turn sour. It’s a secluded bay that can protect smaller vessels from rough waters.**Final Stretch to Suisun City:**7. **Approaching Suisun City:** - As you navigate closer to your destination, be sure to transition over to the Suisun Slough. Stay vigilant of fishing vessels and recreational boaters. The Slough resembles a large estuary, and local fishing regulations may be in place—be sure to familiarize yourself with any rules around fishing licenses and bag limits.8. **Arrival at Suisun City:** - Upon arrival, you’ll find Suisun City’s waterfront bustling with activities. You might want to dock at a marina and take time to explore the town’s dining and shopping scene. The Suisun City Waterfront is not just picturesque—it's a hub for community events and activities.**Safety Precautions:**- Always check weather forecasts before setting out. Conditions can change rapidly, signalling a need for caution.- Ensure your vessel is equipped with all essential safety gear, including personal flotation devices, a first-aid kit, fire extinguishers, and visual signaling devices.- Bring along communication devices, such as VHF radios, for emergency contact and navigation assistance. - Have a reliable navigational app installed—Savvy Navvy, along with traditional charts, can provide excellent route planning and real-time updates.**Conclusion:**This journey from Stockton to Suisun City is not only visually stunning but also rich in navigation lessons and safety experiences. With opportunities to shelter, engage with local culture, and witness the beauty of Northern California's landscape, you’re set for a rewarding experience on the water! Safe travels!