Starting your boating journey from Dunedin, Florida to Fort Pierce, Florida, offers a blend of scenic beauty, exciting pit-stops, and the delightful experience of taking in the vibrant East Coast of Florida. This route is perfect for the moderately experienced boater who is seeking both leisurely exploration and safe navigation within the intercoastal waterways.
Setting Sail from Dunedin:
As you set sail from Dunedin, you’ll navigate through the sheltered waters of the St. Joseph Sound, one of the safer options that offers protection from the harsher winds of the open sea. Keep an eye on your chartplotter and make sure to adhere to the marked channels, as shoaling can be an issue in these waters.
The area is adorned with beautiful coastal parks and nature reserves. Honeymoon Island State Park, for instance, is not only a point of scenic beauty but also a sanctuary for various bird species, a great place for a stop if time permits.
Progressing South through Tampa Bay:
From Dunedin, head south towards the expansive Tampa Bay. Here, it's essential to follow the designated shipping lanes closely; they are clearly marked and help you avoid the busy commercial vessel traffic. Note the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, a significant navigational structure that stands out against the horizon. Its height and clearance are substantial, but checking clearance details is always prudent for all vessels.
Shelter at Sarasota Bay:
Continuing south, Sarasota Bay offers an ideal location for refuge if you face deteriorating weather. This area is well-protected and hosts several marinas with excellent facilities. It's a lively hub with options for dining and exploring the Ringling Museum, offering both shelter and entertainment.
Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) Journey:
As you move further south, plan to utilize the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) when possible. This inland route is more protected and provides a smooth cruising experience, ideal for dodging potential oceanic swells. Along this portion, navigation is critical: keep an eye out for day markers, particularly green markers on your starboard side as you head south, which guide the way safely through the ICW.
Fort Myers & Caloosahatchee River Crossing:
Upon reaching the Fort Myers area, consider using the Caloosahatchee River to cross over towards the east coast. Here, you'll encounter locks, such as the WP Franklin Lock, which you’ll need to traverse safely. Familiarize yourself with lock procedures and schedules to ensure a smooth passage.
Shelter at Lake Okeechobee:
Lake Okeechobee, the gateway to Florida’s east coast, can offer shelter if needed. Just be mindful, as conditions here can change quickly, so ensure you have up-to-date weather reports.
Cruising the St. Lucie Canal:
Post-Okeechobee, you'll glide through the St. Lucie Canal, arriving at Stuart before making your final turn north towards Fort Pierce. This last leg through the ICW is generally straightforward but requires vigilance over boat speed restrictions and local no-wake zones.
Approaching Fort Pierce:
Finally, as Fort Pierce Harbor comes into sight, the navigational aids become your key allies: The Fort Pierce Inlet range lights and a series of buoys guide your entry into the harbor. Keep your VHF radio tuned to local marine information channels for real-time updates, as the inlet can have strong currents, particularly during tide changes.
Additional Tips:
Use navigation apps to supplement your charts. Handy boating apps like savvy navvy offer real-time data on weather, tide, and currents, all critical for a safe passage. Also, familiarize yourself with local regulations, including fishing limits and environmental rules, wherever you plan to stop and explore.
This journey from Dunedin to Fort Pierce is truly a rewarding adventure, safe for the informed boater with an appetite for both exploration and respect for nautical prowess. With proper planning and attention to detail, your voyage promises both thrill and tranquility amidst Florida’s breathtaking coast.