**Pilotage Plan from Wilmington, NC to Holden Beach, NC****Departure: Wilmington, NC, US** As you set sail from Wilmington, a vibrant city known for its historic riverfront and access to the Cape Fear River, you’ll begin your journey through an area that boasts both scenic vistas and diverse marine life. Your planned route takes you over a mixture of inland waterways and closer to the Atlantic Ocean, making it an engaging experience for both seasoned sailors and novice boaters.**Route Summary** The plan will guide you approximately 30 nautical miles southwest from Wilmington to Holden Beach, involving waterways that are both protected and some that will be exposed to open water conditions.**Section 1: Navigating the Cape Fear River** After casting off, head southwest from the downtown waterfront, navigating the Cape Fear River. This section presents some navigational challenges such as strong currents and commercial traffic, especially as you near the junction with the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Pay close attention to navigation markers—green markers to your right when going downstream and red to your left. This stretch can become tricky, so ensure you keep a vigilant watch for incoming vessels and heed all local speed limits.**Points of Interest en route** As you cruise down the Cape Fear, consider making a brief stop at the historic town of Southport (approximately 10 miles from Wilmington). This charming maritime village offers lovely shops, waterfront dining, and picturesque parks where you can stretch your legs. Be aware of the shallow waters near Southport; keeping a close eye on the depth sounder is essential.**Section 2: Entering the Intracoastal Waterway** After passing Southport, you will merge into the ICW. This section is generally well-marked and offers a more serene experience, surrounded by lush marshland and sporadic views of wildlife. The ICW presents ample opportunity to enjoy nature, so keep your eyes peeled for herons, dolphins, and more.**Shelter Options** Should you encounter deteriorating weather, consider diverting to Lockwoods Folly Inlet nearby. This inlet offers a natural harbor, where you can anchor down to ride out a storm. Ensure that you check local conditions via weather apps before deciding to head in, as entrances can occasionally be impacted by shoaling.**Section 3: Navigational Aids** As you proceed toward Holden Beach, be diligent with your GPS system—Gyro compass navigation and electronic charts are perfect for this stretch. Additionally, be aware of the "do not speed" zones marked in specific areas to protect both wildlife and local residents. Look for navigational aids such as buoys and markers along the ICW, which will assist you in maintaining course and avoiding submerged hazards.**Arrival: Holden Beach, NC, US** As you approach Holden Beach, you’ll navigate through the serene surroundings that define this tranquil barrier island. The surf can be choppier here, depending on the wind conditions, so prepare for some potential swells as you make your entrance at the inlet.**Activities on Arrival** Once docked, Holden Beach offers beautiful sandy stretches for beachcombing and local dining options for some well-deserved rest. Activities include kayaking, beach volleyball, or simply soaking in the sun, all while enjoying the quaint island charm.**Safety Precautions** Always ensure that your boat is equipped with life jackets for all onboard, a first aid kit, and essential navigation tools. Regularly monitor VHF Radio (Channel 16 for emergency broadcasts), and consider keeping handy popular boating apps like Savvy Navvy, which can provide real-time weather updates, tide information, and essential navigational assistance.**Boater Suitability** This route is perfect for recreational sailors who appreciate a mix of tranquility and adventure. The calm waters of the ICW make this trip very accessible for beginners, while the opportunities for exploration and engagement with nature will appease experienced mariners looking for a convenient escape.Embrace the journey; it’ll be a delightful mix of exploration, nature, and leisure on your voyage to Holden Beach! Safe sailing!