Planning a boat trip from Palmetto to St. Augustine promises both an exhilarating adventure and leisurely coastal exploration. This journey up Florida’s picturesque western coast offers serene passages, welcoming marinas, and vibrant coastal towns rich with history. Let's chart your course with safety as our guiding star, yet ensuring that it's a voyage filled with memories.
Setting Sail: Begin your journey from the Manatee River in Palmetto. Ensure your vessel and paperwork are shipshape, check your vessel's safety gear, and have up-to-date charts. The Cortez Bridge is a key landmark as you set your course. Tide and current information will prove useful, ensuring you sail with favorable conditions.
Safety Tip: Maintain a vigilant watch for local traffic, including recreational boats and commercial vessels. VHF Channel 16 should be monitored continuously for weather updates and emergency messages.
To Tampa Bay and Beyond: As you navigate out of Palmetto, Tampa Bay opens up, offering a vast expanse of water. Pay attention to Egmont Key State Park. This small island at the mouth of Tampa Bay boasts a historic lighthouse and pristine beaches, offering a delightful stop. However, be wary of shallow waters near the shore and the shipping channel that accommodates large vessel traffic.
Navigational Aids: Utilize navigation aids like the Range Lights to steer safely, and adhere to buoy markers indicating the shipping channels.
Marked Pathway: Staying within the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway enhances safety and allows for a smoother ride. This sheltered waterway provides protection from the open Gulf’s potential rougher seas. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge marks an iconic passage offering a stunning view at sunrise or sunset.
Notable Stops:
Safe Refuges: Consider anchoring at Homosassa Bay if conditions deteriorate. The waters here provide shelter, and the area is known for manatee sightings—a serene interlude for wildlife enthusiasts.
Anchorages: The area around Cedar Key is another viable option for seeking refuge. It's relatively remote, offering protection from wind and waves while adding a rustic charm to your voyage.
Final Leg: Passing by Jacksonville, the St. Johns River offers navigational interest but steer clear unless planning a deliberate detour. As you approach St. Augustine, the Bridge of Lions heralds your arrival. St. Augustine Marina ensures a safe harbor, and this historic city is a trove of colonial Spanish architecture and culture.
Navigational Reminders: Be cautious of strong tidal currents and shifting sandbars, especially around Matanzas Inlet. These local conditions require attentive navigation.
This route is ideal for boaters seeking a blend of serene inland waterways and occasional open coastal cruising. It's tailored for those who enjoy cultural richness alongside natural beauty, with numerous opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Enjoy the peace of Florida's west coast, where every stop becomes a story and every waterway a gateway to adventure.