**Pilotage Plan: Wilmington, NC to Wilmington, NC****Route Overview**Embarking on a boat trip from Wilmington to Wilmington is an exciting opportunity for both the novice and experienced boater. This in-and-out route along the Cape Fear River, with its stunning scenery and plethora of features, showcases the charm of North Carolina's coastal waterways. You'll navigate through a mix of urban and natural landscapes, setting the stage for a day filled with potential adventure.---**Leg 1: Departing Wilmington Riverfront**Start your journey at the bustling Wilmington Riverfront. Before heading out, take a moment to enjoy the iconic USS North Carolina Battleship, a historic World War II battleship that serves as a museum. As you leave the dock, pay careful attention to local regulations—speed limits and no-wake zones are in place to protect nearby marinas and residential areas.From here, head southbound, carefully navigating away from the Riverwalk, where you must remain aware of traffic from both commercial and recreational vessels. Keep the **Wilmington Harbor Lighthouse** and channel markers in sight to guide you. These navigational aids will help maintain your course toward the Intracoastal Waterway.---**Leg 2: Navigating the Cape Fear River**As you make your way down the Cape Fear River, this section can become quite busy, with vessels ranging from small sailboats to large cargo ships. Always monitor your VHF radio for any announcements regarding marine traffic. You should consider a stop at **Battery Island** or **Hewett’s Landing** if you wish for a respite or to stretch your legs. Battery Island is a small, uninhabited piece of land with beautiful views and is a great shoaling area to drop anchor if weather conditions become adverse.Pay attention to the depth as you navigate; some areas can be shallow during low tide. Utilize an electronic chartplotter—apps like Savvy Navvy can help you stay updated with real-time data about tides, currents, and nearby hazards.---**Leg 3: Exploring the Inlet Areas**Once you pass Cape Fear and the surrounding marshland, keep an eye on local wildlife, which includes a variety of birds and the possibility of spotting dolphins. The inlet areas lead to serene bays that serve as excellent shelter points should the weather change unexpectedly—**Masonboro Inlet** is particularly well-regarded for its sheltered waters and beautiful scenery. Should stormy weather approach, this is a safe haven to secure your vessel.After navigating past the indented coastlines, consider taking a detour to explore **Masonboro Island**, a state preserve that is only accessible by boat. It offers beautiful sandy shores and is perfect for a leisurely hike or a picnic.---**Leg 4: Returning to Wilmington**The journey back to Wilmington will mirror your outbound route, providing an opportunity to observe any unmissable sights you may have overlooked earlier. Visibility conditions can change, so adjust your speed accordingly and remain vigilant.As you approach the mouth of the river, you'll begin to see more recreational traffic. Follow the marked channels diligently and watch for local fishing boats and jet ski enthusiasts, especially as you near the docks in downtown Wilmington.*Note on Legislation & Regulations*: Maintain an awareness of local regulations concerning fishing, speed limits, and anchoring. Check for any posted notices along the way that may dictate temporary changes in rules or restrictions on anchorage locations.---**Safety Considerations**- Always wear your personal flotation device (PFD) and ensure you have safety equipment on board, including fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, and flare kits.- Keep a continuous check on the weather, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms can develop rapidly.- Use a reliable GPS system, and ensure your mobile devices are adequately charged with the Savvy Navvy app installed for route planning and safety alerts.---In conclusion, this pilotage plan outlines a beautiful, engaging route for avid boaters looking for adventure while keeping safety as a top priority. Whether you're a family looking for recreational activities or a seasoned sailor with an eye for wildlife, Wilmington’s waterways promise an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the journey and embrace the charm of North Carolina’s coastal waterways while navigating safely!