### Pilotage Plan: Stuart, Florida to Boynton Beach, FL**Overview** This route from Stuart to Boynton Beach is an exceptional trip suited for seasoned boaters as well as those who are relatively new to the experience. The coastal waters offer stunning scenery, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and a variety of charming spots for relaxation and exploration. Safety is paramount; hence the plan includes navigational tips, potential shelter areas, and points of interest that ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.**Route Planning**- **Starting Point**: Stuart, FL (Latitude: 27.2113, Longitude: -80.2659)- **Ending Point**: Boynton Beach, FL (Latitude: 26.5281, Longitude: -80.0546)**Route Description** Your journey will take you through the beautiful waters of the Indian River Lagoon and might include parts of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The total distance is approximately 30 nautical miles, which is a lovely day trip for most boaters.**Section 1: Stuart to Jupiter Inlet** - **Distance**: About 12 nautical miles.- You will start by heading south along the Indian River Lagoon. Take note of the navigation aids along the way including markers for the ICW. Monitor your depth, as some areas can be shallow. Look out for the manatee zones marked by buoys; slow down for their protection.- **Shelter**: If the weather starts to turn, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers great shelter options; you can easily access harbors nearby there.- **Points of Interest**: The scenic beauty of the lagoon provides ample wildlife viewing opportunities. You might spot eagles, dolphins, and plenty of fish. The Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is also a key habitat to appreciate along this stretch.**Section 2: Jupiter Inlet to Lake Worth Inlet** - **Distance**: About 10 nautical miles.- After passing through the Jupiter inlet, ensure to stay vigilant as you approach the ocean mouth; it can be a bit choppy depending on the tide and current. Take a moment to enjoy a stop at the Jupiter Lighthouse, a historical landmark offering stunning vistas if you're up for a short hike.- **Shelter**: In case of worsening weather, the Lake Worth Lagoon provides additional shelter options. This is particularly useful as you can anchor here and ride out the storm if needed.- **Navigational Aids**: Pay attention to the inlet markers, as they guide you safely into the Lake Worth Lagoon.**Section 3: Lake Worth Inlet to Boynton Beach** - **Distance**: About 8 nautical miles.- From the Lake Worth Lagoon, you’ll follow the ICW directly toward Boynton Beach. The waters here are usually more protected from wind and waves. Keep an eye on the channel markers and ranges guiding you along the way.- **Points of Interest**: As you near Boynton Beach, you can visit the Boynton Beach Inlet. This fresh water interchange provides beautiful waterside parks like Oceanfront Park. Perfect for a picnic break or a light stretch after your journey! ### Safety Considerations - Always check the weather before you depart. Sudden shifts in weather can occur, especially in afternoon thunderstorms; having a backup plan for shelter is essential.- Ensure you have all safety gear required by the U.S. Coast Guard: PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), fire extinguishers, first aid kit, flares, and extra signaling devices.- Keep your VHF radio tuned to channel 16 for emergencies, and stay connected with local marina communications for real-time updates on weather and conditions.### Recommended Apps Using modern technology can enhance your cruising experience. I recommend the following apps:- **Savvy Navvy**: A highly intuitive navigation app that provides route planning and real-time navigation advice.- **Navionics**: For its detailed charting capabilities and community navigation tips.- **MarineTraffic**: To track local ship traffic and stay informed about vessels in the vicinity.This beautiful nautical adventure from Stuart to Boynton Beach is packed with opportunities for memorable sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and safe harboring. As you set sail, embrace the serene waterways and make the most of your wayfinding skills, ensuring a fulfilling and safe outing on the water!