### Pilotage Plan: Town of Webster to City of Rochester, New York**Departure Point:** Town of Webster, New York **Coordinates:** Long -77.52885, Lat 43.2090333333 **Arrival Point:** City of Rochester, New York **Coordinates:** Long -77.61795, Lat 43.2324333333 ---**Overview of the Route**This route covers a delightful stretch of the Great Lakes region, specifically following the shoreline of Lake Ontario along the Genesee River. It features opportunities for shelter and exploration, making it suitable for recreational boats and experienced cruisers alike. The journey combines scenic waters with delightful stops for food and fun, all while keeping safety as the top priority.### Route Description#### Starting in WebsterAs you cast off from Webster, take a moment to embrace the tranquility of the waters. The first leg of your cruise will navigate through the bays and inlets of Lake Ontario. Keeping a steady course southeast will lead you towards Irondequoit Bay, which is an excellent spot for a brief respite should weather conditions change unexpectedly.#### Irondequoit Bay**Distance from Webster:** Approximately 3 nautical miles.Irondequoit Bay is not only a splendid place to pause but also offers several restaurants and recreation opportunities. Look for the entrance clearly marked by navigational buoys. Due to its natural shelter, many boaters find it a suitable spot to wait out rough weather. As you enter the bay, be mindful of the nautical charts that indicate shallow areas, particularly near the northern edges. The bay is home to recreational activities like fishing and wildlife watching, making it an ideal spot for a short stop.#### Continuing Down the LakeLeaving the bay, head back out towards Lake Ontario. As you chart your course southward, be mindful of the prevailing winds and currents. This route lies within the jurisdiction of U.S. Coast Guard regulations, so adhere to all local rules regarding navigation and vessel requirements.#### Navigational AidsAs you make your way towards Rochester, keep an eye on the navigation markers, including buoys and beacons that assist in marking the safest paths through the waters. Notable aids on this stretch include:- **Nautical Buoys:** These are especially critical as you navigate where land and lake meet. Ensure they are observed to engage with safe passageways.- **Rochester Harbor Light:** A prominent landmark at Rochester’s harbor entrance. When you see this, you’re close to your destination!#### Rochester Harbor**Arrival Distance:** Approximately 5 nautical miles from Irondequoit Bay.As you approach the harbor, you will see the skyline of Rochester coming into view. The inlet leading into the harbor is marked, so follow the navigation signs carefully. Upon entering, you’ll encounter various docking facilities that can accommodate transient boaters.#### Points of Interest in RochesterOnce docked, Rochester offers a plethora of activities. You can take time to explore the well-known **High Falls**, or visit the **Strong Museum of Play** if you’re traveling with family. The city is also famous for its culinary scene, so consider indulging in a local eatery after a day on the water.### Safety Considerations- **Weather Monitoring:** Always check the weather before departure and continuously monitor conditions. Apps like Savvy Navvy are fantastic tools for real-time weather updates. - **Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure you have life jackets for every passenger on board, along with first aid kits and fire extinguishers. Know the locations of the nearest Coast Guard stations.- **Wildlife Respect:** Be aware of the local wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitats, especially when navigating shallow areas.- **Fishing Regulations:** If you plan to fish, ensure compliance with New York State regulations regarding licenses and limits.### SummaryThis boat trip from Webster to Rochester allows for a blend of safety, scenic beauty, and leisure. By focusing on navigational aids and weather safety, it ensures a pleasant and secure voyage. If you’re an enthusiastic boater seeking an exciting adventure with opportunities for exploration and relaxation, this recommended route is perfect for you. Enjoy your trip, and remember to stay street-smart on the water! Safe travels!