Starting your journey from Shell Point, you're in for a delightful adventure cruising along the serene waters of Florida’s Big Bend. This journey towards Steinhatchee is not only a treat for those who enjoy the tranquility and the beauty of coastal Florida, but it's also particularly suitable for boaters who like to mix a bit of exploration with their cruising, all while maintaining a clear focus on safety and navigation.
Departure from Shell Point:
As you depart from Shell Point, you'll begin your journey by heading into the northwestern waters of the Gulf, navigating past the Head of the Bay section. Remember, these waters can be shallow, so ensure that your draught is well-suited for such conditions. It's critical to have a reliable chart plotter or navigational tool like savvy navvy, which can offer real-time data to guide you safely through these waters.
Navigational Aids & Considerations:
As you set your course, keep a keen eye on the Shell Point Channel markers which guide you safely out to deeper waters. Given the tidal nature of this region, you'll want to plan your departure around the tide charts to avoid running aground, especially if you’re in a sailboat or a deeper keeled vessel.
Points of Interest and Shelters:
The first good spot to consider a brief stop or an emergency shelter is the Ochlockonee Bay. If you're looking for activities, you can explore the nearby Bald Point State Park which offers pristine beaches and excellent bird-watching opportunities. This area is excellent for anchoring and provides sufficient coverage should weather conditions change unexpectedly.
Continuing your northwestern course, keep St. George Island in view as a navigational aid. Its lighthouse is not only a great landmark but also a possible exploration point. While there, you could visit the St. George Island State Park, offering expansive beaches and a picturesque picnic spot.
Further along, Apalachicola Bay is a prominent landmark and can serve as both a respite in case of adverse weather or as an enticing destination. The bay is steeped in maritime history, and you can moor near the city of Apalachicola to enjoy local seafood delicacies and explore the charming historic district.
Navigationally, always keep attentive to the following:
The buoys and channel markers are your friends; maintain a vigilant eye on the navigational aids which will seamlessly guide you past shoals and safely through scalloped coastlines. Be particularly cautious while passing Dog Island, as there are numerous shifting sands and shoals.
Final Approach to Steinhatchee:
As you close in on Taylor County, adjusting your heading towards Steinhatchee requires precise navigation due to oyster bars and shallow spots around the entrance. Again, apps like savvy navvy can be invaluable here for real-time updates and safer routing through winding, shallow channels.
Accommodating your approach, the Steinhatchee River entrance is well-marked with lights and buoys. Large parts of the town's seafood and laid-back charm await your arrival. It’s a gentle spot for docking and refueling your spirit after a satisfying voyage.
Safety Precautions:
This journey offers an exquisite blend of nature, coastal culture, and marine navigation, tailored perfectly for adventurous boaters who appreciate both the leisurely and the exploratory sides of boating — all while staying devoted to safety and preparedness.