**Pilotage Plan: Wareham, Massachusetts to East Providence, Rhode Island****Route Overview**This trip from Wareham, Massachusetts to East Providence, Rhode Island, takes you through the scenic waters of Buzzards Bay, the Sakonnet River, and the East Bay, offering charming views and safe harbors while maintaining a keen eye on safety. This route is ideal for experienced sailors and powered boaters alike, especially those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions.**Starting Point: Wareham, Massachusetts**Before you head out, ensure your vessel is equipped for the journey. Wareham is a great jumping-off point, with access to the Weweantic River and Buzzards Bay. Take a moment to enjoy the local scene — the Wareham River is home to a variety of wildlife and offers opportunities for fishing or a quick swim if time allows.**Leg One: Wareham to the Cape Cod Canal**From Wareham, set your course southwest towards the entrance of the Cape Cod Canal. As you exit Buzzards Bay, keep a keen eye on marks, particularly the charted buoys that denote the navigation channel leading to the canal. The Cape Cod Canal is a vital shortcut that can protect your journey from open ocean swells. **Bays and Anchorages**If the weather turns unpredictable here, you can divert southward to Buzzards Bay, where several coves provide refuge. On the way, consider stopping at Bournedale or Sandwich for some exploration; both locations have historical significance and local charm.**Leg Two: Cape Cod Canal to the Sakonnet River Estuary**Once you've navigated the canal, head toward the Sakonnet River, keeping an eye on any local sailboats, as the river approaches can be busy with local traffic. The Sakonnet Light is a pivotal navigation marker here, guiding you safely into the river. This area is known for its picturesque views of the Connecticut coast. **Points of Interest**As you make your way along the Sakonnet River, consider stopping at Tiverton, RI, known for its quaint shops and the stunning views of the river; it's a favorite among boaters for its warm community and welcoming demeanor.**Leg Three: Sakonnet River to East Bay**Leaving the Sakonnet River, head into the East Bay — here, you’ll find plenty of protected waters. This lengthy leg allows for easy navigation, especially along the marked shipping channels. Keep an eye out for the Prudence Island Lighthouse and consider a detour to Prudence Island for a picnic or hike. The island is a peaceful escape and a great way to stretch your legs before heading to East Providence.**Important Navigational Aids**Throughout the route, pay attention to the numerous buoys and markers along Buzzards Bay and the Sakonnet River. The U.S. Coast Guard Maintenance Program ensures aids to navigation are consistently checked. Be aware of your GPS coordinates in relation to the tidal charts, especially in the Sakonnet River, which can have strong currents.**Final Leg: Entering East Providence**As you approach East Providence, your entry will take you through the Pawtucket River area. Look out for local boat traffic as this area can get busy, particularly during weekends. You’ll arrive at the wide expanse of the East Bay, a beautiful sight dotted with parks and recreational areas.This route is well worth your time as it combines safe navigation with splendid scenery. However, always prepare for changing weather conditions by checking forecasts beforehand. Before you leave, don’t forget to download crucial boating apps. Savvy Navvy can help with navigation, weather insights, and points of interest. Other useful apps include Navionics for charts and Windy for real-time weather forecasts.**Conclusion**This trip is perfect for experienced boaters looking to enjoy a safe yet adventurous route. By adhering to navigational guidelines and keeping an eye on the local weather, you can sail through some of Rhode Island's most scenic waters while exploring its beautiful coasts. Safe travels!