**Pilotage Plan: Tillamook, OR to St. Helens, OR****Route Overview** Your journey from Tillamook to St. Helens takes you along the scenic beauty of Oregon's coastal waters, transitioning into the lush environments of its rivers and estuaries. This route is suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters, offering stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and a few charming stops while prioritizing safety at every turn.**Departure from Tillamook** Begin your adventure at Tillamook, a small but vibrant community known for its dairy products and proximity to Tillamook Bay. Carefully assess local weather conditions before departure, as the area can be subject to fog and high winds, especially in early mornings and late afternoons. **Navigating Tillamook Bay** As you exit Tillamook Bay, keep a watchful eye on the buoys marking the channel. Pay attention to your charts as the bay can shift with tidal changes. The US Coast Guard Station at Barview can guide you on current navigational conditions. Look out for the iconic Cape Meares Lighthouse to your west, which is also a great spot to anchor and take a break if needed. If bad weather approaches, you can find shelter at Garibaldi Harbor to the south, providing excellent protection from inclement weather.**Transition to Nehalem Bay** Continuing north, you’ll sail along the coastline toward Nehalem Bay. This area is rich with wildlife; keep an eye out for sea lions, otters, and migrating birds. Nehalem Bay State Park offers a great place to enjoy the scenery and perhaps a picnic if the weather permits. To navigate the bay's entrance safely, adhere to the navigational aids and be cautious of shallow waters. A detour can be worthwhile to visit the quaint town of Nehalem, which has charming shops and local eateries.**Heading Up the Columbia River** After passing through Nehalem Bay and making your way east, you will start to approach the entrance of the Columbia River. The river is one of the largest in the United States, and its width can be daunting. An important navigation tip here is to keep clear of the steep banks and sandbars, which can shift with the current.Consider stopping at Astoria, a titanic port city that gives you a taste of history, including the Astoria Column and Fort Stevens State Park. The expansive waters here can experience significant currents and tidal rips, so take these conditions into account when planning your arrival times.**Navigating towards St. Helens** As you proceed along the river, watch for navigational markers to help guide you further inland. The waters are generally more sheltered as you make your way towards St. Helens. Be aware of commercial shipping traffic in this area, adhering to all maritime rules and maintaining a safe distance.You might enjoy a stop in Scappoose, a small town known for its fishing and beautiful parks, if time allows. This can offer a needed break before completing the final leg of your journey.**Approaching St. Helens** Coming into St. Helens, watch for the distinctive St. Helens Marina, which offers amenities for transient boaters including fuel, a boat ramp, and other facilities. You’ll want to confirm any local regulations regarding docking if you plan to spend time ashore, as the marina can be busy, especially during weekends.The local marina also provides information on weather conditions and potential hazards associated with local tides and currents. Make sure to consult with marina staff and local charts as you prepare to dock.**Conclusion** Your voyage from Tillamook to St. Helens encompasses breathtaking vistas and opportunities for engaging with Oregon's rich culture and ecology. Always prioritize your safety and stay informed on weather conditions for a more enjoyable experience. The route is particularly well-suited for boaters who appreciate great natural beauty and a variety of sights to explore, while ensuring that safety regulations are firmly observed.In your journey, don’t forget to utilize navigation apps like Savvy Navvy, which provides essential charts and real-time data to enhance your boating experience. Combining solid preparation with the incredible landscape of Oregon promises a memorable adventure on the water. Safe travels!