Loggerhead Marina - Hollywood Marina to Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina

Pilotage Plan from Loggerhead Marina - Hollywood Marina to Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina

Preparation:
Before setting sail, it is imperative to check the latest weather forecasts and maritime notices for the route. Ensure your vessel is equipped with the essential safety equipment, including life jackets, VHF radio, charts, GPS navigational aids, and emergency provisions. Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations.

Departure: Loggerhead Marina - Hollywood Marina

Begin your journey from Loggerhead Marina in Hollywood, a charming starting point offering excellent facilities for boaters. Before departing, ensure your boat's fuel tanks are full and check your onboard systems (navigation, communication, and engine) one more time to ensure everything is in working order.

Route Overview:

You will be cruising along the iconic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), heading south towards the Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina located within Islamorada in the beautiful Florida Keys. This route is particularly suitable for boaters who enjoy scenic cruising while taking in the picturesque Florida coastline.

Navigational Aids and Hazards:

• Navigation through the ICW will require attentiveness to marked channels and aids to navigation. Keep a lookout for day markers and navigational buoys, and always keep to the starboard side of red markers when traveling south.
• Pay close attention to shallow areas and ensure you are familiar with your vessel's draft, especially near sandbars and when navigating through narrower channels.
• Boat traffic can be heavy, especially near Fort Lauderdale and Miami; proceed with caution and maintain a safe speed.

Points of Interest and Shelter Bays:

• John U. Lloyd Beach State Park: An excellent spot for an early stop. Offers shelter and a beautiful area for relaxation, swimming, or a picnic. Observe designated anchorage areas.
• Oleta River State Park: Perfect for nature enthusiasts; this park provides opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in its calm waters. It also serves as a good shelter point in case of sudden weather changes.
• Biscayne Bay: As you near Miami, Biscayne Bay is a notable landmark. The bay offers a multitude of marinas and anchorages should you need to stop. The area is also famed for its vibrant marine life, so consider a snorkeling break if time and weather permit.
• Key Largo: The first key you encounter, known as the Diving Capital of the World. Great for an overnight stop, with plenty of services and attractions for boaters.

Local Regulations:

• Be aware of manatee zones along the route, where speed limits are strictly enforced to protect these creatures.
• Fishing regulations vary by area; ensure you are familiar with local rules if you plan to fish.
• Anchor only in designated areas to protect the seabed and marine habitats.

Arrival: Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina

Located in the heart of Islamorada, Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina offers comprehensive facilities in a stunning setting, making it a perfect endpoint for your journey. Ensure you call ahead to confirm slip availability and marina services.

Conclusion:

This voyage from Loggerhead Marina - Hollywood Marina to Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina is ideally suited for the adventurous boater who appreciates the blend of safe cruising within sight of land and the allure of exploring Florida's renowned coastal and island destinations. The route is packed with potential for memorable experiences, from isolated beaches to vibrant cityscapes, offering the perfect balance between an adventurous journey and safe, accessible boating.