### Pilotage Plan: Wrightsville Beach, NC to Holden Beach, NC#### OverviewSetting sail from Wrightsville Beach to Holden Beach provides a delightful blend of navigation challenges and scenic vistas. This route is particularly suitable for experienced coastal sailors and recreational boaters looking for a mix of leisure and adventure, while always emphasizing safety and awareness of local conditions.---### Departure: Wrightsville Beach, NC**Coordinates:** Long/Lat -77.8036166666667, 34.20305Initially, head out from the Wrightsville Beach inlet, where you’ll be greeted by striking views of the surrounding nature and local sandbars. Before departing, ensure your vessel is fully equipped with life vests, flares, and a functioning VHF radio to communicate with local authorities.**Hazards to be aware of:**- **Shifting Sandbars:** The outer bar can shift significantly, especially after storms. Use navigation aids wisely and check updated charts.- **Local Fishing Boats:** This area is popular with fishermen, so keep a watchful eye for small vessels moving in and out of the inlets.**Points of Interest:**- **Wrightsville Beach Park:** Simply taking a stroll along the shore or a quick dip before departure can be invigorating. ---### Route OverviewThe journey from Wrightsville Beach to Holden Beach is approximately 25 nautical miles along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The ICW provides a relatively safe route as it is sheltered from ocean swells, making it ideal for those less experienced or for casual boating. #### Navigational Aids- **Green and Red Buoys:** Pay attention to the buoys marking the channel. Keeping the red side to the right when heading south is crucial for safe navigation.- **Navigation Markers:** Regularly check your position against nautical charts (digital or paper) to stay on course.#### Step 1: Williams Creek Marker to Snow’s CutAs you leave Wrightsville Beach, navigate southwest through the ICW towards Williams Creek Marker. It’s a relatively straight shot, but be ready for the occasional tight turns as you approach the Snow’s Cut junction.**Hazards:** Strong currents may be present at Snow’s Cut; monitor your speed accordingly and be mindful of times when currents are strongest. #### Step 2: Snow’s Cut to Long CreekOnce you are through Snow’s Cut, you’ll enjoy calmer waters leading into Long Creek. This section is great for spotting local wildlife—look out for pelicans and dolphins feeding in the waters.**Shelter Opportunities:** In case of unexpected weather changes, Long Creek offers a protective inlet for anchoring. #### Step 3: Long Creek to Shallotte RiverProceed into the Shallotte River as you follow the ICW. This area is known for its scenic marshlands and occasional ebbing tides, so maintaining awareness of water levels is essential.**Local Insights:** The scenic views make this section perfect for those looking to catch the sunset. There are opportunities for fishing along the banks if you soon want to mix activity with relaxation!---### Riding Into Holden BeachAs you approach Holden Beach, watch for the notable landmarks, including the grand houses dotting the shoreline. Pass the Holden Beach Bridge, taking care to navigate the channel.**Points of Interest:**- **Holden Beach Fishing Pier:** A fantastic spot for a relaxed day, where you might even spot fishermen reeling in their catch.- **Local Parks:** Allow a stop at nearby parks for a picnic or a stroll along the water’s edge.#### Final ConsiderationsOnce you arrive at Holden Beach, ensure to adhere to local regulations for anchoring and mooring. The waterways may have specific restrictions, so consulting with local marinas upon arrival is wise.---### Suggested Boating AppsTo enhance your journey and maintain safety:1. **Savvy Navvy:** An all-in-one marine navigation app ideal for planning routes, tracking weather, and viewing charts.2. **Navionics:** Offers detailed nautical charts that are constantly updated.3. **Windy:** For real-time weather conditions and forecasting, which is essential throughout your journey.This pilotage plan provides safe and enjoyable cruising from Wrightsville Beach to Holden Beach. Respect the water and your surroundings, and you'll surely have a memorable experience on this beautiful stretch of North Carolina’s coastline! Safe boating!