Tacoma to Des Moines by boat

Pilotage Plan: Tacoma, WA to Des Moines, WA

Embarking on a boat trip from Tacoma to Des Moines offers an exciting opportunity to explore the beauty of the Puget Sound while navigating through a region rich in natural beauty and marine life. This journey is particularly suited for experienced and intermediate boaters, given the navigational considerations and potential hazards along the way. The trip covers a distance of approximately 19 nautical miles and provides an excellent avenue for enjoying the serene Pacific Northwest waters.

Route Overview

Starting Point: Tacoma, WA Coordinate: -122.512128, 47.304200 Tacoma, located on the southern end of Puget Sound, is a well-equipped port city. Before departure, check the weather conditions and prepare your vessel by ensuring all safety gear is in place. Make sure to review navigation charts of the area, paying special attention to depth levels and changes in marine traffic.

Ending Point: Des Moines, WA Coordinate: -122.329009, 47.400455 Des Moines offers a calm harbor with amenities and services for boaters. It’s an ideal destination for resting, refueling, or enjoying local attractions.

Points of Interest & Notable Landmarks

1. Dash Point State Park: Located approximately 6 nautical miles from Tacoma, this park is a great place to anchor for a while. It offers peaceful beaches and opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and exploring tide pools. This area can be a good refuge if the weather turns unexpectedly.

2. Brown’s Point Lighthouse Park: A beautiful historical site approximately 8 nautical miles into your journey. The lighthouse is a great spot for a short break, offering picturesque views and historical information on local maritime navigation.

3. Des Moines Marina: Your endpoint offers ample docking facilities and supplies. The marina area has dining options and beautiful waterfront parks, providing attractions for a leisurely stroll after your trip.

Navigational Considerations and Hazards

As you navigate from Tacoma to Des Moines, there are several key considerations and points to keep in mind:

• Traffic Patterns: The waters around Tacoma can be busy with commercial shipping traffic. Keep a lookout for large vessels and observe the shipping lanes. Maintain a safe distance from larger ships as they may have limited maneuverability.

• Bays and Shelter: Should the weather take a turn for the worse, Dash Point State Park provides natural shelter. Additionally, the waters of Sinclair Inlet to the northeast of Tacoma offer safe anchorage.

• Weather Changes: The weather in Puget Sound can shift unpredictably. Monitor weather apps and forecasts, especially for wind speed and direction. A sudden rise in wind can create challenging conditions on open waters.

Navigational Aids

Use the following navigational aids along your route:

• Navigation Charts: Always have up-to-date electronic and paper charts on board. The NOAA charts are particularly useful for planning and verifying your route.

• Markers and Buoys: Pay attention to navigational markers, especially around the ferry routes that can be found in this area. They indicate safe passages and shallow waters.

• Aids to Navigation: Familiarize yourself with local lighthouses and buoys. You’ll encounter Brown’s Point Lighthouse, which is significant in guiding vessels through this busy area.

Regulations and Recommendations

• Speed Limits: Adhere to speed limits in marina zones and near populated areas. Respect no-wake zones, particularly around parks and residential areas.

• Fishing Regulations: If you plan to fish along your journey, check local regulations regarding licensing and catch limits.

• Communication: Keep a VHF radio on hand to communicate with local authorities or other vessels. It’s advisable to monitor channel 16 for emergencies.

Summary

The route from Tacoma to Des Moines is not only a pleasure cruise but also an essential journey through potentially busy waters. The blend of nature and urban proximity makes it suitable for boaters who wish to embrace both tranquility and activity. Always prioritize safety by checking your equipment, consulting navigational aids, and remaining vigilant to weather changes as you make this memorable trip. For navigation assistance, consider using boating apps such as savvy navvy alongside others like Navionics or iNavX to enhance your cruising experience.

Enjoy your navigation from Tacoma to Des Moines, and make the most of the stunning scenery and experiences along the way!