Sarasota to Venice by boat

Pilotage Plan: Sarasota, Florida to Venice, Florida

Starting Point: Sarasota, Florida
Coordinates: Longitude -82.5502667, Latitude 27.3383

As you embark on your journey from Sarasota to Venice, you'll traverse some beautiful waters, with plenty of opportunities for scenic views, wildlife sightings, and potential shelter in case of inclement weather.

Route Overview

The distance between Sarasota and Venice is approximately 12 nautical miles, mostly navigating through the protected waters of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and some open areas. The route is well-suited for recreational boaters who are familiar with coastal navigation, providing patches suitable for both sailboats and powerboats.

Heading Out: Sarasota Bay

Departure Point: Sarasota Bay
Heading south out of Sarasota offers immediate picturesque views of Sarasota Bay. Be sure to heed navigational markers as you exit the bay. The significant channels are well-marked, and you can enjoy sightings of motor yachts, small fishing vessels, and the occasional sailboat grazed gently by the afternoon sun.

Hazards to Consider: While the bay is generally safe, watch for local fishing vessels. The shallow waters can yield sudden depth changes, so be mindful of your draft.

Entering Lemon Bay

As you navigate south, you will soon arrive at Lemon Bay. This broad body of water is a splendid area perfect for a moment of relaxation or an impromptu picnic. Should the weather grow unfavorable, this bay can provide a good shelter, preventing exposure to heavier wave action.

Points of Interest: Here, you can observe a rich array of wildlife, particularly in nearby mangroves. Look out for dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species.

Navigational Aids and Considerations

Pay close attention to the following markers as you make passage towards Venice:

1. Intracoastal Waterway Markers: Follow the red right returning rule – keep red buoys on your right when returning from sea and green on your left. They are essential for guiding you safely along the ICW.
2. Channel Depth: Monitoring tidal fluctuations is critical as depths may decrease during low tide, especially in narrow channels.
3. Speed Limits: Adhere to local speed limits, particularly near the residential areas bordering the waterways. This ensures safety for both your vessel and the aquatic life surrounding you.
4. Approaching Venice

As you continue south, you will encounter the beautiful Venice Inlet. This area is identifiable by the distinctive jetties and the bustling activity of recreational anglers. The inlet can be a little tricky with current flows; thus, careful navigation is advised, especially if tides are running strong.

Local Attractions and Shelter: Venice is known for its family-friendly beaches and public parks. Once you arrive, the Venice Pier is a lovely spot to stretch your legs, while nearby the Venice Fishing Pier offers the chance to interact with local fishermen. If the weather poses a problem, the nearby Venice Bay is your best option for safe anchorage.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Before you set sail, check local weather conditions and forecasts. Sudden storms can occur in Florida, and having a good weather app can help stay ahead of any impending changes. For real-time navigation and weather updates, I recommend 'Savvy Navvy' in addition to usual marine weather apps.

Conclusion

This route from Sarasota to Venice features a delightful mix of leisure and nature, making it an excellent journey for both novice and experienced boaters. While fun and cultural highlights are certainly part of the experience, safety remains the priority with ample opportunities to take shelter and enjoy the area's natural beauty along your way. Enjoy your adventure!