Englewood to Nokomis by boat

Pilotage Plan: Englewood, FL to Nokomis, FL

Overview of the Journey

This planned route from Englewood to Nokomis offers an appealing blend of scenic beauty, navigational interest, and safe harbors, making it an ideal trip for recreational boaters and weekend adventurers. The approximately 12-mile journey along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) allows for smooth navigation, with several opportunities to anchor down or take short excursions at interesting landmarks.

Part 1: Route Description

Starting Point: Englewood, FL

1. Departure from Englewood:As you set off from Englewood, head northward on Lemon Bay. The waterway here is relatively wide, providing a comfortable passage. Maintain a safe distance from the shore and be wary of shallow areas, particularly near the mangroves.

Navigational Aids:

• Pay close attention to the ICW markers. These green and red buoys will guide your way, marking the navigable channels. Always favor the red to port when heading north.

1. Heads Up for Hazards:Keep an eye out for numerous fishing boats and small watercraft in the area. The local wildlife is abundant, and it’s not uncommon to see manatees and dolphins along the route, so cruise at a moderate speed.

Part 2: Points of Shelter and Attraction

1. Stump Pass Beach State Park:

• After approximately 5 miles, you will reach Stump Pass, which is a great spot for a break. True to its name, this location offers a bay where you can safely anchor if adverse weather arises. The pristine beaches provide an excellent opportunity for swimming, picnicking, or simply stretching your legs on shore.
• Note: Be cautious when entering the pass; tidal shifts can alter water depths significantly.

1. Don Pedro Island State Park:

• Continuing toward Nokomis, Don Pedro Island is another notable detour. This area provides sheltered waters ideal for shallow drafting boats, and the island is idyllic for some exploration. It is also worth noting that this park has no motorized access, which could make for a quieter experience.

Part 3: Final Approach to Nokomis, FL

3. Continuing North:As you round the northern tip of the island, you'll navigate through some narrow channels. Keep a vigilant eye on your chart plotter or navigational app for depth changes and potential obstructions.

Navigational Aids:

• Look out for the red 29 and green 30 buoys that indicate the channel through the Gulf. Follow these closely.
• Monitor VHF channels 16 and 9 for any local traffic communications or updates on weather conditions.

1. Approaching Nokomis:

• As you get closer, the waters deepen as you enter the Venetian Waterway. This final stretch offers smooth sailing right up until the Nokomis Public Beach area. Prepare for some tidal currents as you enter the Nokomis inlet.
• The public dock in Nokomis offers transient slips, making it a superb landing spot for further exploration ashore.

Part 4: Local Regulations and Safety Measures

• Always observe local speed limits in the ICW and near sensitive wildlife areas.
• Familiarize yourself with regulations regarding anchoring, especially in state parks where certain zones may have restrictions.
• Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit onboard, and ensure life jackets are accessible and worn where required.

Conclusion:

This route from Englewood to Nokomis is not just a safe passage; it also combines breathtaking scenery with plenty of opportunities to anchor down and explore the quaint beaches and vibrant marine life along the way. Whether you are an experienced captain or a novice, this journey is perfectly tailored to provide both thrill and tranquility. Boots may enjoy real-time tracking through various nautical apps like Navionics and, of course, Savvy Navvy will guide you through the intricacies of the waterways as you navigate.

Stay safe and enjoy the stunning coastal views!