Embarking on a boat trip from Tampa to Jacksonville Beach offers an exciting adventure full of diverse landscapes, bustling waterways, and stretches of calm coastal beauty. Let's map out a pilotage plan that balances safety and excitement, ensuring you glide through the Gulf breeze with confidence and comfort.
Departure from Tampa:
Begin your journey in the vibrant waters of Tampa Bay. As you set sail, be sure to monitor the tides and currents, as these can be quite strong in the bay area. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a remarkable feature to navigate past on your starboard side—so keep an eye on the clearance and enjoy the view of this impressive structure.
Planning the Intracoastal Waterway:
Once past Egmont Key, consider transitioning into the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This sheltered route offers safer passage in case offshore conditions become unfavorable. The ICW winds its way up the Gulf Coast into protected bays like Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor. These areas not only provide ideal shelter from unexpected weather but also offer docking possibilities for a day of rest and re-supplying.
Notable Stops Along the Route:
Sarasota and Venice, located along your route, are picturesque towns with ample marinas, where you can explore delightful waterfront communities, art scenes, and enjoy fresh seafood. Continuing along the ICW, the Boca Grande Pass, renowned for its excellent tarpon fishing, is worth a visit if time and weather permit.
Crossing to the Atlantic Side:
Navigating around Cape Sable, you'll aim to enter the Okeechobee Waterway. Crossing Lake Okeechobee itself is a unique part of the journey. Before heading out, ensure you check the lake's water levels and lock schedules. The route through the Okeechobee Waterway will ultimately lead you to the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) on Florida’s east coast.
East Coast Transit and Navigational Aids:
Once on the east coast at Stuart, you'll find yourself in a boater's paradise where the AICW threads through charming towns like Vero Beach and St. Augustine. St. Augustine is a perfect place to take a breather; explore the nation's oldest city and its storied history.
As you continue north, ensure vigilant observation of navigational aids, such as buoys and markers, particularly through narrow or busy stretches like Ponce de Leon Inlet. Markers with red on the right should be followed northwards.
Approaching Jacksonville Beach:
The final stretch of your journey brings you to Jacksonville Beach. Be mindful of the Jacksonville Naval Station's zones and shipping traffic in the St. Johns River approach. A good practice is to check the local notices to mariners for any restrictions or operational naval exercises.
Finally, as this journey may span multiple days, maintaining a close eye on technology can enhance safety and planning. Reliable boating apps like Navionics, MarineTraffic, and notably savvy navvy can provide real-time weather updates, navigation routes, and marina information to aid your voyage.
Summary:
This route is ideal for boaters who enjoy a combination of inland waterway passage and open-sea navigation, offering a balance of leisure stops and technical maneuvering. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. By prioritizing safety, you can ensure a memorable expedition filled with adventure and discovery on your way from Tampa to Jacksonville Beach. Happy sailing!