**Pilotage Plan: Windsor, ON, US to Lakeshore, ON, CA****Starting Point: Windsor, ON, US (Latitude: 42.3395, Longitude: -82.9281)** **Ending Point: Lakeshore, ON, CA (Latitude: 42.3019, Longitude: -82.7794)**---### 1. Route OverviewThis journey from Windsor to Lakeshore offers a delightful mix of serene waters and picturesque vistas. Spanning roughly 13 nautical miles across the scenic waters near the Detroit River, this route is particularly suitable for recreational boaters, families, and those looking to enjoy a day on the water while remaining vigilant about safety.### 2. Points of Interest and Shelters- **Historic Windsor Waterfront:** Begin your journey with a quick tour of Windsor’s waterfront parks. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or grabbing a bite at local eateries before you set sail. Don’t forget to enjoy the views of the Detroit skyline—it's especially stunning at sunset.- **Peche Island:** Just a short detour from the direct route, this island serves as a fantastic stopping point. It offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a chance to stretch your legs. If weather patterns suddenly shift, Peche Island also provides ample shelter as it’s nestled along the shore.- **Lake St. Clair Metropark:** Located along your route, this expansive park is an excellent location to consider for breaking up the trip. Picnic areas and recreational facilities here offer opportunities for water activities or a quick swim if the conditions permit.- **Lakeshore Parks:** As you approach your destination, keep an eye out for the numerous parks along the Lakeshore area that have local eateries and recreational activities available.### 3. Navigational AidsAs you embark on your adventure, being vigilant about navigational aids is crucial:- **Navigational Buoys:** Pay close attention to the channel markers and buoys guiding navigable waters. These red and green channel markers will keep you in safe waters. The crucial markers are positioned to ensure safe passage for deep draft vessels, making them imperative for navigation.- **GPS & Nautical Charts:** Utilizing apps like savvy navvy will give you a finer grasp of the local waters, containing both detailed charts and user-generated updates about hazards or navigational changes. Don’t forget to bring paper charts as a backup to your electronic navigation.### 4. Local Regulations and Restrictions- **Speed Limits:** Both the Detroit River and surrounding lakes have enforced speed limits. Be sure to observe local posted limits and adjust your speed in areas with high boat traffic or near swimming beaches.- **Fishing Regulations:** If you're planning to fish, familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations pertaining to seasons and licensing. Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has strict guidelines that you must adhere to.- **Waterway Traffic:** When navigating busy waterways, ensure you maintain a lookout for larger vessels and adhere to the right-of-way rules. Awareness is key in busy areas to prevent collisions.### 5. Weather ConsiderationsBefore setting off, check local weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes, particularly on the water. Having a marine VHF radio handy for real-time updates can significantly enhance safety.### ConclusionThis trip from Windsor to Lakeshore is not only a feasible and scenic route for boaters of all types, but it also emphasizes safety above all. With an abundance of shelter points, nearby attractions, and vital navigational information, your excursion is poised to be memorable.As you cast off from Windsor, embrace the tranquil beauty of the waterways while ensuring you’re equipped with the right knowledge and tools for a safe, fun experience on the water. Enjoy the journey and safe boating!