**Pilotage Plan for the Trip from Vero Beach, Florida to Port St. Lucie, Florida****Overview:**Setting off from Vero Beach to Port St. Lucie presents an exciting journey along Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), rich in natural beauty, with plenty of sheltered spots for safety, should conditions change unexpectedly. This route is particularly suitable for cruising enthusiasts, families, or anyone seeking a leisurely adventure, blending nature and local culture.### Departure from Vero Beach1. **Starting Point: Vero Beach, FL** You’ll begin your journey at Vero Beach, well-known for its calm waters and beautiful beaches. Before you set off, check the local marine weather report and ensure your vessel's safety gear is complete and in good working order.2. **Navigation Aids:** As you leave Vero Beach, keep an eye out for the Vero Beach City Marina marked by navigational aids which guide you toward the ICW. Make sure your chartplotter is set to display all relevant aids to navigation in the area.### Along the Route3. **Inwater Way and Hazards:** The majority of your journey will be spent on the Intracoastal Waterway. Be particularly mindful of shallow areas, especially when navigating through spoil islands and near the entrance to the Fort Pierce Inlet. Maintain a close watch on your depth sounder and be prepared to slow down in confined sections where tidal flows can affect water levels.4. **Points of Interest:** - **Sebastian Inlet State Park:** As you head south, consider a detour to Sebastian Inlet, a popular spot both for fishing and exploring its natural habitats. It’s a great location for a break, picnic, or just taking in the scenic views. - **Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge:** This area is rich with birdlife and provides an excellent opportunity for those interested in nature photography or simply enjoying the serene environment. - **Fort Pierce:** As you get closer to your destination, Fort Pierce offers a vibrant marina area including the Fisherman’s Wharf with shops and restaurants. You might want to stop here to stretch your legs and have a meal.### Shelter Options5. **Sheltered Areas:** Should weather conditions worsen, there are several bays and anchorages along the route: - **Pelican Island:** Offers some sheltered areas on the western side. - **Fort Pierce City Marina:** A good option if you need to seek refuge quickly; it provides comprehensive amenities to help mending a sudden change in plans.### Final Approach to Port St. Lucie6. **Navigational Considerations:** As you approach Port St. Lucie, be aware that the ICW will start narrowing again. Pay close attention to channel markers as you navigate towards the St. Lucie River. The waters here can be tricky due to strong currents, especially during tidal changes.7. **Regulations and Local Guidelines:** Ensure compliance with local boating regulations, particularly regarding no-wake zones in residential areas and maintaining proper distances from other vessels and marine wildlife. 8. **Destination: Port St. Lucie** Arriving in Port St. Lucie, you reach a friendly community along the river with easy access to local attractions. The city’s many parks and marinas provide excellent opportunities to dock and explore. ### Recommended Tools and AppsTo enhance your navigation experience, consider using the following apps:- **Savvy Navvy:** This comprehensive app is great for chart plotting and navigation, helping you visualize your route while receiving real-time weather updates.- **Navionics:** Provides detailed nautical charts, including information about hazards and points of interest.- **Windy:** Useful for checking detailed weather conditions and forecasts to keep your trip safe.### ConclusionThis route is perfect for leisure boaters looking for a scenic journey along Florida's beautiful waterways, combining the thrill of nature with a bit of local culture. Being prepared with safety measures and navigation tools ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip from Vero Beach to Port St. Lucie. Happy cruising, and may fair winds guide your voyage!