**Pilotage Plan: Westport, Massachusetts to Mystic, Connecticut****Route Overview** Embarking from Westport, MA, to Mystic, CT, offers an exhilarating journey along the picturesque coast of Southern New England. This trip is suited for intermediate to experienced boaters, as it presents a mix of navigational challenges along with scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and enough sheltered bays to ensure safety if weather conditions shift unexpectedly.---**Starting Point: Westport, Massachusetts** As you set sail, ensure you've checked the weather forecasts and local tidal schedules. The waters around Westport can experience strong tides, primarily influenced by the nearby Buzzards Bay. **Notable Hazards** Be wary of the swift currents, especially when leaving the Westport River. It’s advisable to navigate out during slack tide for smoother conditions.---**Cruising the Route: Westport to Mystic** 1. **Setting Out from Westport River:** Head southeast, marking your way towards the infamous Horseneck Beach. The beach is a beautiful sight and perfect for a quick stop before heading out into more open waters. A sandy shoreline with great surf waits here—just keep an ear out for any lifeguard warnings, especially in the summer.2. **Approaching Buzzards Bay:** As you enter Buzzards Bay, be vigilant of the many boats that frequent this area, especially during peak summer months. More importantly, pay attention to targeted navigation markers, as this region has both land and underwater obstructions.3. **Sheltering Opportunity: Cuttyhunk Island** If the weather becomes unfavorable and winds pick up, consider taking refuge in Cuttyhunk Harbor. This picturesque island offers mooring balls and beautiful hiking trails to explore beyond your boat, ensuring a pleasant diversion if you have to sit out inclement weather.4. **Transiting Narragansett Bay:** After leaving Buzzards Bay, you’ll enter Narragansett Bay, which is riddled with busy shipping lanes. Be cautious of larger vessels, particularly ferry traffic involved in connecting islands and Rhode Island’s mainland. 5. **Block Island Sound:** Observe ‘No Wake’ zones and fellow vessel traffic in Block Island Sound before you make the transition towards Connecticut. Keep your chartplotter handy and always refer back to marked charts—navigational aids are essential as fog can roll in relatively quickly.6. **Entering Long Island Sound:** As you slide into Long Island Sound, watch for various navigation buoys indicating safe channels, particularly near the East River passage. ---**Advanced Point of Interest: New London** As you near your destination, the historic city of New London offers a wonderful harbor entrance. If you have time, it’s worth a quick detour to visit the U.S. Coast Guard Academy or enjoy local eateries.---**Final Destination: Mystic, Connecticut** Mystic is a haven for boaters and historical sightseeing. The Mystic Seaport Museum showcases classic maritime heritage and a reconstructed 19th-century seafaring village. Depending on your arrival time, consider taking a walk over the iconic Mystic River Bridge.**Navigational Aids and Considerations** Throughout this journey, rely heavily on your chart plotter and local nautical charts. Specifically:- **Lighthouses and Aids:** Familiarize yourself with key lighthouses along the route, such as the popular Watch Hill Light as you navigate closer to Rhode Island.- **Local Regulations:** Remember to check for any fishing seasons or restrictions that might apply when taking in the scenic waters. **Apps to Consider for Navigation and Safety** While enjoying your trip, it will greatly benefit you to have navigational tools at your fingertips. Always consider using savvy navvy, alongside other trusted boating apps, for route planning, tide tables, and real-time weather updates to keep you informed. *Safety remains paramount: always have a float plan, keep your life jackets accessible, and remain aware of changing weather patterns. With a well-planned itinerary, your trip from Westport to Mystic will be memorable, scenic, and above all, safe.*