Embarking on a boat trip from Stuart to Sarasota is an exhilarating journey that encompasses the essence of Florida’s stunning waterways. The route takes you from the eastern coast across the Okeechobee Waterway and into the Gulf of Mexico, offering a perfect balance of adventure, safety, and scenic beauty. Here’s a comprehensive pilotage plan tailored to ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage.
Your voyage begins in Stuart, affectionately known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” Here, make sure your vessel is well-stocked and equipped for a voyage encompassing both inland and coastal cruising. As you set off, head towards the St. Lucie Inlet, keeping a vigilant watch on depth soundings, as this inlet can be tricky, particularly during low tide. Utilize the navigation aids marking the channel to safely traverse into the St. Lucie River.
Traveling westwards, you’ll soon reach the Okeechobee Waterway, which links the Atlantic to the Gulf. This stretch of your voyage requires attention to water depth and steady navigation through locks. The Port Mayaca Lock and Dam is your first major lock encounter—ensure you have your fenders and lines at the ready to traverse this safely. With a variety of wildlife and picturesque views along the banks, taking a leisurely pace is advisable.
Lake Okeechobee itself demands respect. While it can be calm and serene, storms can develop rapidly, so be prepared for sudden weather changes. Pay heed to forecasts and use apps like savvy navvy to keep informed. If conditions require, sheltered anchorage can be found in protected marinas such as Roland Martin's Marina on the lake's southern shore. Here, you can also restock supplies and enjoy the local fishing culture.
After crossing Lake Okeechobee, continue along the Caloosahatchee River to Fort Myers, a vibrant city offering plenty of docking facilities should you wish to explore. It's also a perfect spot for a weather check before entering the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf can present different challenges compared to inland waters, with more significant waves and tidal currents, especially near passes and around barrier islands.
As you turn north along the coast, relish the stunning barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, which are famous for their shelling beaches and nature reserves. Anchorages in the protected waters of Pine Island Sound offer safe haven and beautiful landscapes to explore by dinghy.
Navigation from here to Sarasota involves following the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), noted for its reliability and marking system. Pay careful attention to the channel markers, keeping the red ones on your starboard side heading north. The ICW can be busy, especially near populated areas, so keep an eye out for other boaters, kayakers, and local wildlife.
Turtle Beach, just south of Sarasota, provides a convenient area for anchoring in case of adverse weather, bringing a tranquil setting with clear waters and ample protection from the elements. As you finally approach Sarasota, the downtown marina offers a vibrant welcoming, with numerous cultural attractions, restaurants, and parks to explore.
Throughout the journey, remain conscious of tidal influences and weather changes which can affect your cruising experience. Adhere to local regulations, including speed limits and no-wake zones, to ensure a safe and lawful passage. For added security and real-time data, a suite of navigation apps such as savvy navvy can assist in avoiding hazards and plotting courses effectively.
This route caters to boaters who value a mix of inland navigation and coastal cruising, affording breathtaking landscapes, a solid route infrastructure, and plenty of options for activities along the way. Safe travels, and enjoy the rich tapestry of sights this passage has to offer!