Setting sail from Bokeelia, with its serene marina nestled beautifully on Pine Island, you have the perfect springboard into one of Florida’s most inviting boating adventures. Your journey to Cortez promises a delightful mix of stunning coastal views, intriguing nautical landmarks, and potential pit stops that blend safety with enjoyment.
Starting off from Bokeelia, you'll exit into the calm waters of the Pine Island Sound, heading north. Keep an eye on the channel markers as you navigate through the sound, which can get a little murky due to its depth variations and underwater shoals. These markers will ensure you stay on course, minimizing the risk of running aground.
As you move north towards Charlotte Harbor, a bundle of attractions start unfolding. Enjoy the open expanses of the harbor, but remember to be cautious of boat traffic, especially during peak boating seasons. There is a plethora of fishing activity here, so keeping a steady lookout for smaller fishing vessels and crab pots is imperative.
Charlotte Harbor is teeming with interesting points of interest, like the coastal town of Punta Gorda. It's a lovely spot to pause, perhaps for a meal or a stroll through Fishermen's Village—a waterfront shopping and leisure complex. However, if the weather looks threatening or you just need some downtime, this area offers good shelter with its well-equipped marinas.
Continuing onward, you'll soon find yourself cruising through the enchanting Gasparilla Sound and adjacent to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Here, you'll traverse Cayo Costa State Park, a barrier island renowned for its untouched beaches and beguiling natural trails. It’s a splendid place for a brief anchorage and exploration, should conditions allow.
As you follow the waterway south of Sarasota Bay, take special note of the Longboat Pass Bridge. Timing is everything here since the bridge has scheduled openings—check local guides or apps like savvy navvy for accurate tide and bridge schedules. Remember, courteous and timely communication with bridge operators via VHF is crucial.
Along the approach to Cortez, you’ll pass by the entrance to Sarasota Bay, another respite option with ample marina facilities. In rough weather, Sarasota Bay provides a safe retreat with its sheltered environment and the allure of vibrant cultural offerings ashore.
As you maneuver through these waters, stay vigilant for the consistent marker colors: red markers on your starboard side (right) and green markers on your port side (left), particularly important as you traverse narrow channels. Awareness of speed regulations, especially in manatee zones, is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to protecting the local wildlife.
Upon reaching Cortez, you'll find this quaint fishing village offers a charming endpoint to your voyage. Nestled between Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island, Cortez is rich in history and presents a quintessential mix of old Florida charm and booming maritime activity—perfect for any boater looking to soak up the local heritage.
This route is ideal for boaters of all experience levels who relish not only the journey's end but the treasures found along the way. It marries the thrill of open water cruising with the assurance of well-charted, hospitable waterways. Whether it's a leisurely exploration or a purposeful traverse to the north, this course from Bokeelia to Cortez is bound to be a memorable undertaking on the seas. Always remember, a smooth trip is dependent on diligent preparation and situational awareness. Safe travels!