## Pilotage Plan from West Palm Beach, Florida to Ft. Pierce, Florida### OverviewThis itinerary guides you from the bustling city of West Palm Beach to the serene landscapes of Ft. Pierce, Florida. Covering approximately 40 nautical miles along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), this route is perfect for cruisers looking to experience Florida's coastal beauty while ensuring safety and comfort. This cruise allows for an easygoing day on the water, whether you're a sailor or a motorboater.### Route Description**Starting Point: West Palm Beach** As you depart from the lively harbor of West Palm Beach, be sure to take in the stunning skyline and the idyllic waterfront parks. Before you head out, check your vessel’s equipment and ensure you have up-to-date charts on board. A quick glance at weather conditions is crucial, as boating can fluctuate with the forecast. Notable navigational aids here include the West Palm Beach Inlet (Daybeacon 26), which marks a safe passage out to sea, although for this trip, we will remain in the ICW.**First Leg: West Palm Beach to Lake Worth Lagoon** Head north along the ICW, keeping an eye out for the Lake Worth Bridge which creates a crucial passage for both boaters and road traffic. The lagoon is a picturesque scar on the coastal landscape, and a perfect spot to take a break if the weather turns unsavory. Remember to follow the caution signs indicating shallow waters; the area can be famous for its shallows, especially near the bridge. If needed, there’s an anchorage just northeast of the bridge to wait for any potential storms.**Points of Interest:** In Lake Worth, enjoyed by many boaters, lies a variety of options for short excursions. The Lake Worth Beach Park is a fantastic spot for relaxation, and is often dotted with beach volleyball activities and picnic areas.**Next Stop: Intracoastal Waterway** Continue to navigate northbound along the channel. One of the prominent features along this part of the ICW is Peanut Island, a small oasis rich in wildlife, offering great spots to anchor and explore snorkeling opportunities. Keep an eye out for the navigational markers as you approach the Intracoastal turning point—staying in the marked channel is key for safety.**Upcoming Budd Inlet and Local Hazards** Before you reach the St. Lucie Inlet, you’ll navigate through Budd Inlet. This area is known for its tidal currents, so be especially vigilant as you make your way through. Avoid shallow areas which can be encountered if you stray from the marked path. Check tidal schedules ahead of time to harmonize your passage with the current flow.### Arrival at Ft. PierceAs you approach Ft. Pierce, you’ll see the impressive Fort Pierce Inlet, a vital channel that guides you safely back to shore. Here, the city’s vibrant harbor will be your finale. The new marina offers a leisurely stop for replenishment, or you might want to explore the local restaurants leading up to the waterfront. Notable local attractions include the Ft. Pierce Inlet State Park, a perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing.### Safety and RegulationsAs you journey, be sure to respect local speed limits and no-wake zones, especially near residential areas and busy waterfront parks. Always monitor VHF channel 16 for any safety announcements or navigation alerts from the Coast Guard. If you're a first-time boater on this route, ensure that you familiarize yourself with the local area’s maritime law, including buoy markers, channel drafting, and potential fishing regulations. Lastly, carrying both a handheld GPS and traditional paper charts aids in redundancy should technology fail.### Recommended AppsIn preparation for your trip, make sure you have essential navigation tools onboard. Recommended apps for ease of navigation include Route 66 Navigation, Navionics, and Savvy Navvy. These apps will provide real-time updates and easily guide you through the many spots along your journey.### ConclusionThis route from West Palm Beach to Ft. Pierce encompasses the beauty of Florida’s coast while prioritizing safe and enjoyable boating. With scenic stops and navigational aids to ease your journey, it’s a delightful escapade for boaters of all experiences! Always respect the surrounding waters and ensure a pleasant trip with safety as your primary aim. Enjoy your adventure!