**Pilotage Plan: Wilmington Island, GA to Tybee Island, GA****Overview:**Embarking on a boat trip from Wilmington Island to Tybee Island is a delightful escape for boaters drawn to the serene coastal waters of Georgia. This route, while short (approximately 10 nautical miles), offers various points of interest, safe havens, and navigational challenges that can enhance the boating experience, making it ideal for intermediate to seasoned boaters. **Route Details:**1. **Departure from Wilmington Island:** Begin your journey from the shallow waters around Wilmington Island, known for its natural beauty and wildlife. As you cast off, ensure you have adequate charts for navigation and note any recent weather forecasts. The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is your primary route, keeping you safe from open waters and its possible swells.2. **Navigational Aids:** Keep an eye out for markers along the ICW. Notable navigational aids include: - **Buoy marks:** Watch for green and red aids indicating the channel, where red buoys indicate the right side when coming from the sea and green buoys on the left. - **Tybee Island Light:** As you approach Tybee Island, the iconic lighthouse becomes a key reference point. It’s visible from several nautical miles out and serves as a great visual navigational tool.3. **Hazards to Monitor:** While the waters are generally safe, be aware of: - Tidal currents, which can be strong around the inlets. Check tide tables before setting out. - Shoals and sandbars on the western side of Tybee, especially during low tide. Stick to the marked channels for safe passage.4. **Shelter Options:** Should the weather turn unfavorable, you have a couple of bays where you can seek shelter: - **Turner Creek:** A well-protected inlet located just before the entrance to the marshes leading to Tybee. It offers good holding ground for anchoring. - **Calibogue Sound:** If heading towards the northern part as you approach Tybee, this large sound between Hilton Head and Daufuskie Island can provide refuge from waves.5. **Points of Interest:** Along the route, there are also a few enticing spots worth exploring: - **Little Tybee Island:** A stunning, uninhabited barrier island great for exploring nature trails or having a picnic on the beach. Keep an eye out for dolphins and birdlife. - **Savannah River Entrance:** While steering clear of busy shipping lanes, it's an impressive sight, particularly at the confluence where the river meets the sea. 6. **Local Regulations:** Ensure compliance with local maritime laws. Key regulations include: - Respecting no-wake zones, especially around marinas and inlets. - Familiarize yourself with fishing regulations if you plan to drop a line, as certain areas may have strict rules.7. **Arrival at Tybee Island:** Upon your arrival at Tybee Island, you've reached a vibrant destination. With its historic charm and recreational opportunities, Tybee invites you to explore its beaches, grab a bite at local seafood shacks, or enjoy the atmosphere around the Tybee Pier. Be mindful of the tides when anchoring or docking to avoid getting stuck on the sandbar.**Conclusion:**This journey from Wilmington Island to Tybee Island is not just a trip but a serene passage through beautiful waters with the chances to learn, relax, and enjoy nature. Perfect for day-boaters and weekend warriors alike, this cruising route prioritizes safety while ensuring a rich experience. For navigation purposes, consider using helpful boating apps such as **Savvy Navvy, Navionics**, and **iNavX** to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Happy cruising!