Starting from the charming coastal town of Tierra Verde, our journey to Naples covers approximately 120 nautical miles of Florida’s Gulf coast, offering a perfect mix of scenic beauty, historical landmarks, and oceanic challenges—ideal for adventurous but safety-conscious cruisers.
Departure and Initial Route:
As you leave Tierra Verde, head south through the Pass-a-Grille Pass, ensuring you adhere to the navigational aids marking the channel. This area can be prone to shifting sandbars, so keep a vigilant eye on your depth sounder and favor an outgoing tide for the clearest passage. Early departure is advisable to enjoy calmer morning waters.
Points of Interest & Shelter Options:
Not long after setting sail, you'll hug the western side of Fort De Soto Park—a beautiful spot should you wish to explore its beaches or seek refuge if the weather turns. On an emergency note, Bunces Pass offers a sheltered anchorage where you can wait out unexpected squalls.
Continuing southwards, you’ll pass Egmont Key, which boasts a historical lighthouse and wildlife refuge. However, keep a safe distance from the shallower waters surrounding this landmark as they can be tricky to navigate.
Navigational Aids and Hazards:
As you cruise through the Tampa Bay Ship Channel, maintain a careful watch on the numerous commercial vessels and adhere strictly to right-of-way regulations. This well-marked route with its series of red (even numbers) and green (odd numbers) markers will guide you safely out into the Gulf.
At this point, you are in the open Gulf, and while it allows for relaxing, deep-water navigation, always monitor VHF channel 16 for updates on any tricky weather patterns forming. A robust GPS and chart plotter, complemented by sailing apps like savvy navvy, will greatly assist in ensuring you’re on track.
Midway Highlights and Safe Harbors:
As you near Sarasota Bay, there are ample opportunities for safe harbors and exploration. For a sheltered overnight stop, the moorings at Longboat Key provide excellent amenities and convenient access to quaint shops and restaurants.
Continuing onwards, the immediate coastal area of Venice and Stump Pass marks a significant navigational shift. Keep a lookout for crab pots and shoaling areas particularly notorious here and adhere strictly to local speed regulations near wildlife areas.
Final Stretch and Destination:
Approaching the final leg of the journey to Naples, Marco Island offers a pristine anchorage option at Caxambas Pass. This area is perfect for a tranquil night under the stars or exploring the island’s diverse marine life.
Upon reaching Naples, make your entry through Gordon Pass, being mindful of tidal effects and heavier traffic, particularly during peak boating months. Navigational aids will guide you safely into the harbor, where you’ll find comprehensive facilities and services for docking and resupplies.
In conclusion, this route offers a delightful mix of historical vistas, biological beauty, and navigational demands, suitable for seasoned cruisers with a taste for both challenge and exploration. Along the way, you’ll find an unparalleled opportunity to hone your skills, while enjoying the best of Florida’s waterways. As always, ensure safety remains your priority, taking full advantage of modern guidance technologies and local updates for a seamless voyage.