Loggerhead Marina - Hidden Harbour Marina to Jensen Beach Mooring Field

Starting your voyage from Loggerhead Marina - Hidden Harbour Marina, located in the picturesque area of Pompano Beach, this route to Jensen Beach Mooring Field promises an amalgamation of serene coastlines, strategic navigation, and slices of Floridian culture and marine life that make it an exceptional journey for the discerning boater. Whether you're a passionate sailor seeking a leisurely cruise or a skipper in quest of new mooring experiences, this passage offers both safety and excitement.

Preparation and Safety Measures

Before setting out, ensure your vessel is in top condition, check the weather forecast meticulously, and inform the marina of your departure and expected arrival times. Safety equipment should be checked and made easily accessible.

Departure: Loggerhead Marina - Hidden Harbour Marina

Loggerhead Marina offers a well-sheltered starting point, making your initial departure smooth. Upon departure, focus on orienting yourself towards the Lake Santa Barbara inlet, leading you to the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).

Navigational Highlights and Safety Tips

• Lake Santa Barbara to Hillsboro Inlet: This segment requires a keen eye on marine traffic, given its popularity among boaters. The Hillsboro Inlet Light serves as a significant landmark and a guide out of the more congested areas.
• Point of Interest: Consider a short detour to Deerfield Island Park for a quick nature getaway. Moor here for wildlife spotting and a tranquil break.
• Hillsboro Inlet to Lake Worth Lagoon: Navigate this stretch with attention to the ICW’s markers. Currents can be tricky, and adherence to the channel is paramount. Peanut Island near Lake Worth Lagoon offers a fantastic stopover with its snorkeling spots and historic bunker.
• Weather Shelter: The expansive Port of Palm Beach provides excellent shelter if unexpected weather hits. Its large berth and facilities can accommodate a broad range of vessel sizes.
• Lake Worth Lagoon to Jensen Beach: As you approach your destination, the ICW becomes notably more serene, offering stunning natural vistas and smoother sailing. Ensure to stay updated on local regulations, especially speed limits and fishing zones, as this area is frequented by manatees, and conservation laws are strictly enforced.

Arrival: Jensen Beach Mooring Field

As you near Jensen Beach, the ICW rewards you with easier navigation and ample opportunities for bird watching, especially near the Savannas Preserve State Park. The mooring field at Jensen Beach is well-equipped and offers peaceful, clear waters – a harbinger of your successful journey’s end.

Local Restrictions and Regulations

• Adherence to the Manatee Zones is critical for the protection of marine life along this route. Speed restrictions are strictly enforced.
• Bridge Schedules: Keep an updated list of bridge opening times and frequencies, especially near populated areas, to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Weather and Tide Checks: Continuous monitoring of weather and tides will ensure your journey is both safe and enjoyable.

Why This Route?

This journey from Loggerhead Marina to Jensen Beach Mooring Field caters to boaters who value a blend of navigational challenge and the leisurely exploration of Florida’s unique coastal ecosystem. The route’s variation from bustling marinas to tranquil inlets and nature reserves provides a comprehensive boating experience. Emphasizing safety, the journey offers numerous safe harbors and points of interest that do not compromise the spirit of adventure.

Suitable for: This itinerary is particularly fitting for mid-experience boaters who are comfortable with day-long navigation, possess a solid understanding of nautical charts and tide tables, and who relish the idea of encountering diverse marine environments and wildlife. It stands as a testament to the joys of coastal cruising, where preparation and respect for nature lead to unforgettable maritime adventures.