Setting sail from the charming city of Naples on Florida's Gulf Coast, your journey towards Stuart will offer an enchanting blend of coastal exploration and fantastic waterways of the Sunshine State. With both safety and enjoyment in mind, here’s a detailed pilotage plan for your cruise.
Departure from Naples:
Start your adventure from Naples Bay, a bustling harbor with ample facilities for provisioning. As you exit, be vigilant of the marked channel that leads you out into the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you should keep an eye on your depth sounder, as the area can sometimes surprise even seasoned navigators with shoals and sandbars, especially near Gordon Pass.
Leg One: From Naples to Marco Island
Your first leg is a leisurely 20-mile jaunt southeast to Marco Island. Navigate past Cape Romano, where the Dome Houses make for an intriguing point of interest. This unique architectural remnant offers a striking sight and is well worth a close pass, weather permitting.
Shelter Option: Marco Island
Marco Island, with its protected inlets, offers a good spot for anchorage if you need shelter from inclement weather. The island also provides transient docking facilities. You might want to stretch your legs and explore the local restaurants or visit Tigertail Beach.
Leg Two: Marco Island to Everglades National Park
Heading northwest, keep your course steady for the Ten Thousand Islands region, offering stunning vistas as well as potential hazards like narrow creek passages and shifting channels. Pay close attention to your charts here—electronic options like the savvy navvy app could be invaluable for up-to-date navigation and environmental data.
Shelter Option: Everglades City
To the north of the park, Everglades City provides safe harbor alongside various eco-tours into the wild expanses of the Everglades National Park. It’s the perfect stop for wildlife enthusiasts.
Leg Three: Across the Big Cypress Swamp to Fort Myers
Heading north along the Big Cypress Swamp, boaters need to be cautious of shallow waters and local wildlife. Follow the ICW markers diligently here. You’ll then pursue the sheltered waters towards Fort Myers, allowing a gentle transition from the Gulf's open waters to the calmer backwaters.
Safety Tip: Fort Myers Harbor
Times of changing weather can make this an ideal stop. With full marina services, Fort Myers can cater to most needs. The city’s vibrant historic district offers a delightful diversion should you wish to spend some time ashore.
Leg Four: From Fort Myers to Lake Okeechobee
Heading east, enter the Caloosahatchee River, which will guide you to Lake Okeechobee. The lake is a critical component of the Okeechobee Waterway, and care must be taken to check for navigational updates on water levels and lock operations.
Safety Highlights: Lake Okeechobee
Cross the lake carefully, keeping abreast of weather warnings which are crucial due to the lake’s susceptibility to sudden changes in weather conditions. Okeechobee can get choppy in a storm, so proceed with caution and consider stopping at a marina along the southern edge like Roland Martins Marina if necessary.
Leg Five: Eastward Along the St. Lucie Canal to Stuart
Upon reaching the east side of the lake, you’ll join the St. Lucie Canal. As you progress, keep a careful watch for low bridges and locks. The St. Lucie Lock—among others—requires a bit of patience and a skilled hand, so prepare to maneuver deftly through these waters.
Destination: Stuart
Finally, you’ll reach the welcoming community of Stuart, sometimes referred to as the "Sailfish Capital of the World." The deep-sea fishing opportunities here are second to none, and you’ll find a vibrant boating culture that celebrates both the sea and the serene St. Lucie River. Stuart's waterfront offers substantial marinas, ensuring a delightful end to your journey.
Safety Summary:
Overall, this route is highly suited for experienced boaters who are comfortable with a mix of open Gulf sailing, intercoastal waterway navigation, and lake crossing. Be sure to keep safety gear—such as life jackets, a VHF radio, navigation lights, and a fully-stocked first aid kit—readily accessible at all times.
Ensure reliable navigation and weather-tracking tools are at your disposal, like marine-specific apps such as savvy navvy. They will enhance situational awareness and provide real-time data to safely manage this multi-faceted journey. So, while safety remains paramount, don't forget to enjoy the scenic moments and vibrant coastal communities along the way—they are what makes this trip memorable. Safe travels!