### Pilotage Plan: Egg Harbor, WI to Fish Creek, WI**Overview** This journey from Egg Harbor to Fish Creek navigates the beautiful Door County waters, rich with picturesque landscapes, calm bays, and charming villages. Ideal for both seasoned sailors looking for a leisurely cruise and recreational boaters seeking an accessible day trip, the route is relatively straightforward, making it suitable for motoryachts, sailboats, and even paddlecraft under appropriate conditions. Safety is paramount, and with several protected bays along the way, boaters will find ample opportunities to retreat should the weather change unexpectedly.**Route Description**1. **Starting Point - Egg Harbor, WI** Your adventure begins in Egg Harbor, a quaint fishing town known for its vibrant waterfront and lovely views. Head northwest out of Egg Harbor, keeping an eye on navigational references, particularly the nearby Egg Harbor State Park—ideal for pre-departure hiking or exploring.2. **Navigational Aids** As you set out, be sure to monitor your position relative to buoys marked on your nautical charts. The main navigational aids you'll rely on are: - **Egg Harbor Channel Marks** - Follow the channel to avoid shallow areas. - **Green and Red Buoys** - These will guide you when you near significant navigation points, particularly as you reach the shores of the Door County peninsula.3. **Route to Fish Creek** From Egg Harbor, the direct route to Fish Creek runs approximately 7 nautical miles. You will have a gentle reach across the water, typically with north-northwest winds favoring your passage. Stay vigilant of: - The **Hazards Around Peninsula State Park** - Approaching the park, be cautious of boaters engaged in fishing, scenic views, and outdoor activities. Take note of shallow waters and rocky outcrops, particularly on the starboard side.4. **Shelter Options** If the weather turns unfavorable: - **Horseshoe Bay** - Located on your direct path, this bay is a great place to take shelter. The entrance can be tricky, but once inside, it offers calm waters and excellent protection from northerly winds. - **Fish Creek Harbor** - An alternative if you need to anchor early. Be aware that this area can get crowded due to its popularity with boaters and tourist traffic.5. **Points of Interest** Along the way, consider stopping to enjoy the local amenities: - **Door County Maritime Museum** - If you have time to deviate slightly, this museum in Sturgeon Bay offers fascinating insights into maritime history. - **Climbing the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse** - A short distance from your route, this historic site provides magnificent views of the bay and is a rewarding detour.6. **Approaching Fish Creek** As you approach Fish Creek, take note of shoreline features that indicate your destination. It's advisable to throttle down as you enter the harbor area due to local restrictions concerning speed and traffic, particularly during the tourist season. Follow the **fish creek buoys** when navigating the harbor entrance, and be vigilant of boats enjoying the marina or fishing in the vicinity.**Safety Considerations** - Always wear life jackets and ensure that all safety equipment is readily accessible.- Keep an eye on local weather conditions; the Lake Michigan weather can change rapidly.- Be wary of wildlife, particularly in crowded areas - it’s not uncommon to see kayakers and paddleboarders in the busy summer months.**Recommended Apps** It's wise to download boating apps for live updates which can enhance your navigation, including:- **Savvy Navvy** - For its route-planning features and real-time tracking.- **iNavX** or **Navionics** - These are also excellent tools for navigation on the water.This route from Egg Harbor to Fish Creek is not just about reaching your destination; it embraces the scenic beauty of Door County and ensures that you have safe waters and plenty of backup plans should conditions become less than ideal. Enjoy the journey, and sail smart!