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Green Cove Springs to Tampa by boat

Green Cove Springs to Tampa

Distance - 488.3 Nm

Avg Speed
5 kts
10 kts
20 kts
30 kts
Time Estimate
4 days, 1 hour, 40 minutes
2 days, 50 minutes
1 day, 25 minutes
16 hours, 17 minutes
Green Cove Springs to Tampa

Green Cove Springs to Tampa

Departing from Green Cove Springs on the St. Johns River, your journey to Tampa promises to be an adventure filled with both serene nature and vibrant local culture. The first phase leads you southwest down the St. Johns River, a waterway renowned for its wide and navigable basin, though mariners should remain vigilant of the commercial traffic, particularly near Jacksonville.

As you head downstream, you'll notice the iconic silhouette of Jacksonville's downtown skyline fading into the distance. Approaching Doctor's Lake, about 10 miles downstream, provides your first point of potential respite. Doctor's Lake is a delightful area for anchoring if you want to take a breather, with calm waters that make for an excellent retreat in less than perfect weather.

Continuing downstream, the river opens out, and it becomes essential to keep a keen eye on the channel markers, especially as you approach Palatka, where the river shallows. Here, ensure you're staying within the navigational buoys to avoid running aground. This stretch is suitable for all skill levels, from seasoned sailors to those new to cruising, thanks to its relatively forgiving expanse and well-marked course.

Leaving the St. Johns River, you'll transition into the Okeechobee Waterway, starting at Stuart. This part of your journey introduces you to a series of locks; they're more fascinating than daunting though, and add a layer of intrigue to the voyage. Be sure to review the U.S. Coast Guard's local notices for operating times since some locks might have restrictions. For the ultimate experience, plan an overnight stop at Lake Okeechobee. Rim Canal provides a scenic and sheltered anchorage point, offering both safety from the elements and a chance to absorb breathtaking sunsets.

As you cross the massive Lake Okeechobee, be mindful of swiftly changing weather conditions, which can whip up surprisingly choppy water. Monitor the weather frequently using reliable marine apps like savvy navvy to help make real-time decisions and stay ahead of any developing fronts. Exiting the lake, you'll find the waterway continues via the Caloosahatchee River towards the Gulf of Mexico.

Upon reaching the Gulf in Fort Myers, it's wise to consult your expected weather conditions, since the final leg to Tampa can encounter more open and potentially challenging waters. From here, choose the Intracoastal Waterway for a more protected route, dotted with navigational aids and landmarks such as Sanibel Island, known for its charming beaches and shelling opportunities. Should the seas become unfavorable, Pine Island Sound offers sheltered waters and marinas with excellent services and supplies.

As you navigate northward along Florida’s stunning west coast, consider timing your transit to take in the beautiful sunset over the Gulf. After passing through places like Sarasota and its world-renowned cultural venues, you're on the home stretch to Tampa Bay. Pay close attention to the Tampa Bay Traffic Separation Scheme; it helps keep recreational boaters and commercial shipping safely apart.

Approaching Tampa, you'll be captivated by the Sunshine Skyway Bridge's impressive presence. This span is not only a visual treat but also a navigational checkpoint as you enter Hillsborough Bay. It’s vital to monitor traffic on VHF channel 16 for updates and safe passage.

Along the way, this journey provides plenty of opportunities for deep-water relaxation or portside exploration. Safety and enjoyment harmoniously blend when you leverage navigation resources and local insight. For those who are both veterans of the open sea and new boater enthusiasts, this route offers a rich tapestry of coastal Florida. Embrace the tranquil mornings, thrilling afternoons, and starlit nights, making for a trip to be remembered and cherished.