Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina to Smokehouse Bay

Embarking from Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina on a voyage to Smokehouse Bay is a journey that promises maritime explorers an exquisite blend of scenic beauty, navigational satisfaction, and serene anchorages, suited especially for those with a penchant for adventure along Florida's sun-kissed coast. This pilotage plan meticulously maps out the voyage, emphasizing safety while ensuring an enjoyable trip through Floridian waters.

Departure: Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina

Your journey begins at Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina, a well-equipped facility nestled in Islamorada, offering a great starting point for your adventure. Before setting sail, ensure your yacht is fully provisioned, and check the local weather conditions and marine forecasts.

Navigating to Hawk Channel

Upon departure, head towards the Hawk Channel, which offers deeper waters and is well marked, making for a safer passage for vessels of all sizes. The channel is a corridor of safety flanked by the Florida Keys to the north and the Atlantic's coral reefs to the south, providing protection from open ocean swells.

Points of Interest along Hawk Channel

• Alligator Reef Light: This historic lighthouse is not only a key navigation marker but also an excellent spot for snorkeling or diving, offering mesmerizing underwater views. Keep a respectful distance, as the coral reefs are protected.
• Marathon and Vaca Key: Consider stopping here for a blend of natural beauty and community charm. Marathon is known for its marine attractions, including the Dolphin Research Center and the Turtle Hospital, which offer unique interactions with marine life. It's also a good point to check the weather and take shelter if necessary.

Towards the Seven Mile Bridge

Navigating around Marathon will lead you towards the legendary Seven Mile Bridge. It's crucial here to stay within the marked channel to avoid shallow areas, especially near the old bridge remnants. This area offers spectacular views and is a testament to human engineering melding with natural beauty.

Entering the Gulf of Mexico and Approach to Smokehouse Bay

After passing Seven Mile Bridge, you'll enter the Gulf of Mexico. Here, the waters become more open, and it's important to monitor weather conditions closely. Your route to Smokehouse Bay will take you along the western edges of the Keys into the deeper waters of the Gulf, providing a smoother passage.

Final Approach and Arrival at Smokehouse Bay

Smokehouse Bay, located near Marco Island, is your final destination. It's surrounded by splendid coastal ecosystems, mangroves, and residential areas. This bay offers serene waters for anchoring and is a gateway to exploring Marco Island's rich history and leisure activities. Ensure to navigate carefully through the marked channels as you approach, as the area around Smokehouse Bay can be shallow and is dotted with private docks and boats.

Safety and Navigation

• Weather and Sea Conditions: Always keep abreast of weather updates through VHF radio or marine weather apps. Sudden changes can occur, and the Gulf can be less forgiving than the Hawk Channel.
• Navigational Aids: Pay close attention to buoys, markers, and lights, especially near reefs and shallow areas. A good chartplotter or navigation app is indispensable on this journey.
• Local Regulations: Be mindful of speed regulations, especially near populated or environmentally sensitive areas. Respect no-wake zones to avoid erosion and disturbance to marine life.

Why This Route?

This route from Plantation Yacht Harbor Marina to Smokehouse Bay encapsulates the essence of Floridian boating—crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, historical sites, and the thrill of navigating both sheltered and open waters. It's a journey that offers a balanced challenge for yacht masters who relish in careful planning and execution, with ample rewards in scenery and exploration opportunities. Safety, combined with the allure of the Florida Keys and Gulf of Mexico, makes this a must-sail route for enthusiasts seeking a taste of everything that coastal boating in Florida can offer.

Prepare well, sail safely, and let the shores of Florida guide you to unforgettable experiences on the water.