Embarking on a boat trip from St. Petersburg to Moore Haven offers a delightful blend of coastal cruising and inland exploration through the varied waterways of Florida. This journey covers a distance of roughly 160 nautical miles and is perfect for a boater who enjoys a mix of open-water navigation with opportunities for close-up adventures along the Gulf Coast and across Florida’s iconic waterways.
Starting from St. Petersburg:
You'll begin your journey in St. Petersburg, a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Make sure your boat is fully provisioned, your navigation systems are up to date, and you've logged in to your trusty boating apps like savvy navvy for precise navigational guidance.
Tampa Bay Navigation:
Leaving the dock, you’ll navigate across Tampa Bay. Be mindful of the numerous channel markers, beginning with the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which has a clearance of 180 feet, accommodating most vessels. Stay alert for commercial traffic, as the port can be busy.
Heading South on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway:
Continue south on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW), where you'll enjoy scenic views and safe passage through a network of channels protected from the open Gulf’s sometimes choppy waters. Notable stops include:
Charlotte Harbor Area:
As you reach Charlotte Harbor, pay attention to the deepening waters and potential swift currents. Burnt Store Marina offers a safe harbor and amenities to refresh your supplies and catch a sight of manatees.
Port Charlotte to Punta Gorda:
Before leaving the harbor, Punta Gorda makes for an ideal pause with its historic district and Fishermen's Village shopping complex. These are wonderful ways to unwind after the day’s navigation.
Into the Okeechobee Waterway:
Transitioning towards Moore Haven, you'll now move into the Okeechobee Waterway. The industrial allure of the various locks here, starting with the Franklin Lock, reminds you of the vast engineering effort behind Florida's inland waterways. Monitor radio channels for lock operation updates and be sure to plan your arrival to avoid unnecessary delays.
Lake Okeechobee Crossing:
This daunting and vast expanse of freshwater is the heart of the waterway. Keep an eye on weather conditions, as suddenly rising winds can make the lake choppy. Lake Okeechobee’s rim route provides majestic views and a closer experience to Florida’s unique inland ecology. There are multiple marinas and access points should the weather necessitate an emergency docking.
Final Approach to Moore Haven:
Upon exiting Lake Okeechobee, you’ll soon find yourself in Moore Haven, where the historic charm of this quaint town greets you. Here, take a moment to visit the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail or simply relax and recount the tranquil journey you’ve completed.
Safety and Navigation Considerations:
The route is especially well-suited for cruisers and sailing enthusiasts who appreciate the mix of sheltered and open-water passage. Throughout the trip, always heed local regulations regarding speed limits and no-wake zones, particularly when approaching populated or narrow waterway sections. Regularly check meteorological updates to avoid severe weather, and ensure lifesaving equipment is readily accessible at all times.
This journey strikes the perfect balance between the thrill of navigation and the allure of Florida’s diverse landscapes, offering a memorable adventure for those keen to explore both coastal and inland waterways.