**Pilotage Plan: From Stuart, Florida to Cocoa Beach, Florida****Overview:**This route from Stuart, a tranquil town on the St. Lucie River, to the bustling coastal town of Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic is not only scenic but also rich with opportunities for great activities and a few essential shelter stops should the weather require it. The trip covers approximately 70 nautical miles and boasts a mix of intracoastal cruising and open-water navigation, making it suitable for experienced boaters and those ready for an exciting excursion.**Leg 1: Departing Stuart and the St. Lucie River**1. As you set off from Stuart (27.2113° N, -80.2659° W), you're immediately greeted by a picturesque view of the St. Lucie River. The navigation here is straightforward, but be advised to keep an eye on the current and local boat traffic, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.2. Follow the channel markers and heed the no-wake zones in the river. These are vital for maintaining safety, especially with numerous residential properties lining the banks.3. Points of interest include the fine dining options and waterfront parks near the river. Consider a brief stop at the Riverwalk, a perfect spot for refreshments before heading out.**Leg 2: Navigating Through the Indian River Lagoon**4. After exiting the St. Lucie River into the Indian River Lagoon system, you’ll enjoy a more open-water experience. This area is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including dolphins and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled and be cautious, especially in the early morning hours when many sea creatures are more active.5. Navigational aids in this stretch are plentiful; keep a close watch on the navigational buoys as you glide along the protected waters of the lagoon. There are shallow spots, particularly near the northern channel, so refer to your charts or a navigation app like savvy navvy to ensure you're on course.**Leg 3: Notable Shelters and Attractions**6. One of the key refuge points along the way is **Eau Gallie Boat Ramp**, which provides a safe harbor if inclement weather arises. This area is safeguarded from strong winds and large swells, making it a good option to consider if forecasts turn south.7. As you approach the Melbourne area, look for the **Melbourne Causeway**. This is a great spot to stop for lunch or a quick exploration of the vibrant waterfront community.8. Allow yourself some leisure time to explore the historic district of Melbourne. Known for its boutique shops and restaurants, it gives a welcomed break from boating.**Leg 4: Transitioning to Cocoa Beach**9. After leaving Melbourne, continue north in the Indian River, keeping a steady pace. Be sure to pay attention to the local regulations regarding fishing and anchoring in some of the protected areas.10. As you close in on Cocoa Beach (28.3569° N, -80.6130° W), the sight of the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier will come into view. Navigating here requires attention to jet ski and surf traffic, especially on weekends.**Final Approach:**11. The approach to Cocoa Beach is usually straightforward, but be sure to follow local speed limits and buoy markers as the area can get congested, particularly during peak hours.12. Ensure you’re familiar with Cocoa Beach’s local boating regulations, especially regarding anchoring and mooring.**Conclusion:**This pilotage plan from Stuart to Cocoa Beach brings a splendid mix of scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and the charm of small-town Southern Florida. While prioritizing safety, the journey becomes an enjoyable experience running along the picturesque waterways, with enough varied stops to ensure you have both refuge and adventure at hand. Equip your vessel with the necessary safety gear, keep an updated weather forecast close at hand, and consider using savvy navvy for an efficient route planning experience. Safe travels and happy boating!