Setting sail from Safety Harbor on your way to Boca Grande offers a charming and enriching boating adventure along Florida's Gulf Coast. The journey spans approximately 110 nautical miles and takes you through stunning scenery and charming coastal communities, with ample opportunities for exploration and rest.
Departure from Safety Harbor:
Your journey begins at Safety Harbor on Tampa Bay's northern edge, where you'll navigate through the relatively shallow waters of Old Tampa Bay. Ensure your charts are up-to-date, as these waters can often be deceptive with numerous shoals and oyster beds. Head south-eastwards towards the entrance channel at Clearwater Pass, where you will want to be especially vigilant of tide conditions and the channel markers—maintain a well-watched eye on the green and red channel bouys to avoid running aground.
Clearwater to Sarasota:
Once past Clearwater, enjoy the breathtaking Gulf views as you cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This path is generally well-marked, so use the ICW markers—keeping red on the right while moving southward. Just past Clearwater and into St. Pete Beach, you might want to explore or dock at the John's Pass Village and Boardwalk for a fun stopover. Here, just ensure you're adhering to the No Wake Zone regulations, especially significant in such a busy area.
Points of Interest and Safety Bays:
As you continue south through Tampa Bay, consider a pit stop at Egmont Key, a secluded island known for its wildlife sanctuary and the historic Egmont Key Lighthouse. It's a great spot for stretching your legs. Moving past Anna Maria Island, the waters open up beautifully. For those seeking some protection from weather changes or simply a peaceful pause, Terra Ceia Bay offers a safe anchorage with stunning sunsets, not far from the route.
Heading further south, Siesta Key and its white sandy beaches make for an optional detour before reaching Sarasota—another bustling yet beautiful destination. Sarasota Bay is well-sheltered, and there are numerous marinas and anchorages where you can safely hunker down should the weather take a turn.
Navigating to Boca Grande:
Continuing south, you'll pass through Venice and Englewood. The Lemon Bay area near Englewood is scenic and offers excellent opportunities for fishing and exploring nature preserves. Make sure your vessel observes local regulations regarding protected sea life in this area.
Finally, as you approach the Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande, take great care around the shallow areas and strong currents near the Boca Grande Pass. This stretch is famous for its tarpon fishing but be mindful of rapid current changes and other boating traffic. Your destination, Boca Grande, is a lovely spot featuring Gasparilla Island State Park, conveniently opened to boaters seeking a slice of Floridian paradise with its pristine beaches and charming village atmosphere.
Final Tips:
Throughout your journey, a strong comprehension of weather forecasts and tidal charts is essential. Utilize reliable maritime apps like savvy navvy to keep abreast of navigational updates and hazards. Safety should remain your primary concern—ensure you have a reliable VHF radio on board and always inform someone of your itinerary and expected arrival times.
This voyage is ideal for boaters who relish a mix of adventure and relaxation. Bask in both the tranquility of quiet bay waters and the lively energy of coastal towns, ensuring a rewarding boating experience with plenty of safe havens along the way.