### Pilotage Plan: Surrey, BC, CA to Friday Harbor, WA, US#### OverviewThis route from Surrey, BC, to Friday Harbor, WA, offers a picturesque journey through the breathtaking waters of the Gulf Islands and the San Juan archipelago. It is particularly suitable for experienced boaters looking for a combination of beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to explore charming coastal communities. While the itinerary emphasizes safety, it also highlights the enjoyable aspects of cruising through this stunning region. ---#### Departure: Surrey, BC**Starting Point:** The journey begins at Surrey, located at coordinates (-122.8770, 49.0638). The closest marina is **Crescent Beach Marina**, which provides easy access to the waters of Boundary Bay. **Notable Points Nearby:**- **Mud Bay Park:** A good spot for a last-minute walk or to stretch before setting off.- **Crescent Beach:** Ideal for a quick beach stroll and beautiful views of the Gulf Islands.---#### Route Highlights1. **Ladner Reach:** - Navigate south through the **Fraser River** to reach **Boundary Bay**. Watch out for fishing vessels, as this area is popular for both commercial and recreational fishing. 2. **Boundary Bay:** - Keep an eye on water conditions—this bay can be a bit choppy in windy conditions. - **Point Roberts, WA:** A detour here offers you a unique opportunity to enter the US without crossing customs at an international border due to its unique geography. 3. **Gulf Islands:** - As you enter the Gulf Islands, consider a stop at **Saturna Island**. The scenic **Lyall Creek** offers shelter and the **Saturna Island Heritage Centre** is a charming educational stop. - **Pender Island:** Offers beautiful hiking trails and local artisan shops to explore.#### Shelter Points- **Ganges Harbour, Salt Spring Island:** This bustling harbor provides ample shelter. A popular overnight stop with an excellent marina, restaurants, and local markets. - **Fernwood Marina:** Offers another option for shelter and comfort.---#### Approaching the San Juan Islands4. **Navigational Aids:** - Pay attention to **buoys and markers** along the Gulf Islands route; they indicate safe navigational paths, especially in shallow areas. - The **Southern Gulf Islands** also have specific **No Wake Zones**; abide by these regulations to protect marine life and avoid local fines.5. **Navigational Hazards:** - **Boundary Pass:** Watch for tides and currents, which can be swift. Use **current charts** to plan passage times. - **Pena Channel:** Be mindful of commercial shipping traffic and shallow waters.---#### On Arrival: Friday Harbor, WA**End Point:** The picturesque Friday Harbor welcomes you along its vibrant waterfront, located at coordinates (-123.0164, 48.5367). **Local Attractions:**- **San Juan Island National Historical Park:** Explore the heritage of the islands.- Check out local eateries—fresh seafood is a must here.- **Wildlife Viewing:** The waters surrounding Friday Harbor are famous for orca whale sightings; consider a guided tour.---#### Essential Navigation Apps- **Savvy Navvy:** This app is a vital tool for route planning, providing up-to-date navigational charts and tidal information.- **Navionics:** Offers detailed charts and great for tracking your journey on the water.- **iNavX:** For those who prefer raster chart navigation, this app is another solid option.---### ConclusionThis cruising itinerary from Surrey to Friday Harbor provides a mix of safe navigation with enticing stops. With careful planning, familiarization with local regulations, and the recommended apps to ensure smooth and safe passage, this journey is sure to be a memorable boating experience. Ensure to always check local weather forecasts and tide charts before departure, and have a contingency plan for sudden weather changes. Enjoy navigating the serene waters and beautiful landscapes!