Loggerhead Marina - Lantana Marina to Card Sound Bridge (West)

Pilotage Plan: Loggerhead Marina - Lantana to Card Sound Bridge (West)

Introduction:

Embarking on a journey from Loggerhead Marina - Lantana to the Card Sound Bridge (West) is a picturesque voyage that offers a blend of coastal beauty, navigational challenges, and unique attractions. This route is especially appealing to experienced boaters who appreciate the intricacies of coastal navigation, the beauty of Florida’s waterside communities, and the thrill of exploring nature’s best-kept secrets.

Starting Point: Loggerhead Marina - Lantana

Your adventure begins at Loggerhead Marina in Lantana, a well-equipped facility offering a perfect launch point. Ensure your vessel is fully prepared, with safety checks on navigational aids, weather forecasts, and local regulations compliance.

Navigation Route:

Upon departure, set course southward, hugging the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This stretch provides a well-marked channel, using the ICW’s system of buoys and markers, making navigation straightforward. Stay vigilant for shifting sandbars and local traffic, particularly around inlets.

Points of Interest and Shelter Bays:

1. Boynton Beach Inlet - A scenic point but notorious for strong currents and variable conditions. It’s a good landmark but proceed with caution if approaching or crossing.
2. Delray Beach - Offers a vibrant atmosphere with options for docking and exploring its famous Atlantic Avenue, brimming with shops and restaurants. In case of unforeseen weather, seek shelter in the nearby marinas.
3. Boca Raton Inlet - Another key landmark, but like Boynton, it requires careful navigation due to strong currents. Boca offers luxurious stops and is near the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, an interesting visit for ecology enthusiasts.
4. Lake Boca Raton - A popular anchorage, providing a calm spot for relaxation or waiting out unfavorable weather. The surrounding areas offer beautiful natural sights and are perfect for leisure activities.

Navigational Aids and Local Restrictions:

• Port Everglades: As you approach Fort Lauderdale, be mindful of the heavy commercial and cruise ship traffic. Follow the posted speed limits and stay clear of shipping lanes.
• Hillsboro Inlet: Known for its lighthouse and strong currents. It's a critical point to navigate carefully, considering the busy traffic and potential for shoaling.
• Navigational Aids: Pay close attention to the ICW markers; the red and green buoy system is your guide. Remember, “red right returning” to keep the red markers on your right (starboard) side when heading south.

Final Destination: Card Sound Bridge (West)

As you approach the card sound bridge, the environment transitions to a more serene landscape, indicative of the Florida Keys' outskirts. The Card Sound Bridge itself is a notable landmark, signaling the near end of your journey. Before reaching the bridge, explore the serene waters of Card Sound, an area less traveled compared to the busy Overseas Highway route but equally rewarding with its undisturbed natural beauty.

Conclusion:

This voyage from Loggerhead Marina - Lantana to Card Sound Bridge (West) is particularly suited for the boater who cherishes not just the destination but the journey itself. Equipped with the right knowledge of local regulations, navigational aids, and points of interest, you are set for an unforgettable adventure that balances safety with the joy of discovery. This journey offers an excellent mix of navigational challenges, scenic beauty, and the opportunity to explore South Florida’s coast, making it a rewarding experience for any seasoned boater.