Your upcoming boat trip from Ft. Myers to Jensen Beach is a journey that promises both the serenity of the sea and the thrill of exploration along Florida’s beautiful coastline. This voyage is particularly suitable for leisure boaters who enjoy a mix of coastal cruising with frequent stops to explore charming small towns and natural havens. Given the nature of the trip, prioritizing safety while sneaking in some leisurely exploration will be vital.
Starting in Ft. Myers, you'll embark on your voyage by navigating eastward along the Caloosahatchee River. As you leave the basin, pay close attention to the depth soundings and channel markers, as the route can have varying depths, particularly in shoaled areas. The river is well-marked with buoys and beacons, so keep an eye on these navigational aids to ensure you're following the main channel.
Your first notable stop can be at Lake Okeechobee, an expansive freshwater lake served by the Okeechobee Waterway, which will guide your way eastward. Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in Florida, offers a unique chance to anchor if the weather conditions are stable, where you can enjoy birdwatching or fishing. However, be mindful of the restricted areas due to the environmental conservation efforts, and always check local notices to mariners for any temporary changes due to water management.
As you continue along the Okeechobee Waterway, you might consider a stop at the Port Mayaca lock and dam, which is an impressive engineering structure controlling water levels and facilitating safe passage to the eastern coast. Continue through the lock system—alert to the lock timings and any specific instructions provided by the lockmasters.
Once past the waterway transition, you'll enter the St. Lucie Canal that will funnel you toward Stuart and, subsequently, Jensen Beach. This part of the route is a delight, with palm-studded landscapes and the potential to spot wildlife along the shores. Just before reaching the coast, the charming town of Stuart offers a perfect haven for a pit stop. Known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World," Stuart provides a wide variety of dining options, boutique shops, and local attractions for those eager to stretch their legs onshore.
Approaching Jensen Beach, the Indian River Lagoon comes into play. Here, it is crucial to navigate carefully due to shifting sandbars and varying tidal currents. The lagoon features important navigational markers and can be challenging during low visibility or turbulent water conditions, so it’s wise to keep your marine GPS and charts handy, as well as apps like savvy navvy for real-time guidance.
Throughout your journey, always remain vigilant of local regulations, including speed restrictions, particularly in areas populated by manatees. These gentle creatures frequent Florida’s warm coastal waters, and protecting them requires mindful navigation and adherence to designated no-wake zones.
With a mix of strategic planning and open-sea adventure, your trip from Ft. Myers to Jensen Beach will be both memorable and rewarding. With its combination of waterway navigation and coastal exploration complete with stops at charming locales, this route is ideal for boaters who savor the journey as much as the destinations along the way. Safe travels and enjoy the captivating waters of Florida!