Caloosa Cove Marina & Resort to Seahaven Superyacht Marina

Pilotage Plan from Caloosa Cove Marina & Resort to Seahaven Superyacht Marina

Departure: Caloosa Cove Marina & Resort

Caloosa Cove Marina & Resort, situated on the beautiful and serene Islamorada in the Florida Keys, is the perfect starting point for an exceptional boating adventure. Before departing, ensure your vessel is well-prepared for the journey, checking weather forecasts, maritime notifications, and having all necessary safety equipment onboard.

1. Navigational Start

After exiting the marina, set a course to navigate through the Florida Keys' stunning aqua waters. Early on, you'll find yourself surrounded by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It's vital to respect the sanctuary's regulations, minimizing impact by avoiding sensitive areas and adhering to no-wake zones to protect the marine life.

2. Channel 5 Bridge

As you proceed, aim for the Channel 5 Bridge which connects Long Key to Lower Matecumbe Key. This area is your gateway to the open Atlantic, but caution is needed due to currents and potential for boat traffic. Tides here can significantly impact your passage, so time your approach with slack water if possible.

Points of Interest and Shelter Bays:

• Long Key State Park: A wonderful stop for nature lovers, with kayaking and bird watching. The park's bays can also serve as a shelter if you encounter poor weather.
• Hawk's Cay: Offers marina services, dining, and a place to rest should you need to break up your journey. The surrounding waters are relatively sheltered, making it a safe haven from unexpected weather changes.

3. Duck Key and Hawks Channel

Navigate around Duck Key, entering Hawks Channel. This channel offers deeper water, making it suitable for superyachts. Keep an eye out for navigational aids like buoys and markers indicating the best passage and highlighting shallow areas to avoid.

4. Seven Mile Bridge

Approaching the Seven Mile Bridge requires careful attention. The bridge's clearance is sufficient for most vessels, but always verify your vessel's air draft. The passage under the bridge offers breathtaking views and marks your entrance into the lower keys' more open waters.

5. Bahia Honda State Park

A potential stopover, Bahia Honda State Park features some of the most beautiful beaches and offers sheltered anchorages on its bay side. The park is a testament to the natural beauty of the keys, making it a must-visit for those on a leisurely journey.

6. Transition to the Open Ocean

Upon reaching Key West, you'll make a pivotal decision to navigate around the tip of the key, entering the Straits of Florida. This portion of the trip is where open-ocean sailing skills come to the fore. Monitoring weather conditions becomes paramount, as the straits can be unpredictable.

Arrival: Seahaven Superyacht Marina

Your destination, Seahaven Superyacht Marina in Dania Beach, is a state-of-the-art facility offering unparalleled amenities for the discerning mariner. Positioned just outside Fort Lauderdale, the marina is an ideal endpoint to this spectacular journey.

Key Navigational Aids and Regulations:

• Navigational Buoys and Markers: Keep a constant lookout for markers, especially in the channels and near keys, to navigate safely.
• Marine Protected Areas: Compliance with regulations in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is crucial for the conservation of marine habitats.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: Always stay updated on the latest weather forecasts, especially when navigating the open ocean segments of the trip.
• Bridge Heights: Verify the air draft of your vessel against bridge clearances along the route.

Conclusion:

This journey from Caloosa Cove Marina & Resort to Seahaven Superyacht Marina meticulously blends the serene beauty of the Florida Keys with the adventurous allure of open-ocean cruising. Ideal for the experienced boater with a penchant for both the tranquility of coastal navigation and the excitement of bluewater passages, this route promises not just a passage between two points, but a memorable voyage through some of the most picturesque waters of the United States.

Safety is paramount, with sheltered waypoints along the route offering refuge should conditions turn. Yet, the attractions and natural beauty dotting the path ensure that the journey is as delightful as the destination. This voyage is not just a trip; it's an exploration of the captivating charm of the Florida Keys, tailored for those who find their joy at sea.