Starting your boat trip from St. Petersburg to Ponce Inlet is an exhilarating journey that blends smooth cruising with intriguing coastal landmarks, offering a unique mix of safety considerations and recreational activities along the way. Given the stunning expanse of the Florida coast, the journey spans approximately 180 nautical miles and is well-suited for experienced boaters who enjoy a mix of serene passages and lively stopovers.
Departure from St. Petersburg:
Kick off your journey from St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, an ideal starting point offering comprehensive services and provisions. As you leave, keep an eye on the Pinellas Bayway Bridge to ensure it’s open before proceeding. St. Pete Beach and the surrounding waters are bustling with activity, so it’s important to monitor channel markers closely, especially in the approach towards Pass-a-Grille Channel, where shoaling can occur.
Tampa Bay to the Gulf of Mexico:
Once you are out in the Gulf, navigating through Egmont Channel is vital as it leads you from the safety of Tampa Bay to the wide-open Gulf of Mexico. The channel is well-marked, but beware of large ship traffic that frequents these waters. Favor staying within the channel markers as you head towards your first fun stop at Anna Maria Island.
Anna Maria Island:
This picturesque island offers a charming stopover with beautiful beaches. If the weather is adverse, check into the protected bay area east of the island for anchorage. Strong northerly winds can make the anchorage somewhat exposed but generally provide decent shelter otherwise.
Continuing Northbound:
As you journey north along the Gulf Coast, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) becomes an ideal route offering protection from the Gulf swell. Navigation through this route requires meticulous attention to the Buccaneers Channel markers and respect for the speed restrictions imposed in these waters.
Clearwater and Tarpon Springs:
Clearwater is a vibrant coastal city and serves as a fantastic harbor boasting beautiful beaches and bustling marinas. Tarpon Springs further north offers a cultural detour with its Greek community and sponge docks. Both locations provide ample shelter in case of poor weather and boast facilities for refueling and resupply.
Crossing to the East Coast:
Upon reaching Tarpon Springs, consider taking advantage of the overnight Gulf crossing to the east coast of Florida, heading straight towards Ft. Myers Beach if the weather permits. This direct route is time-efficient though requires alertness and careful weather monitoring. Otherwise, for those preferring day travel and more shelter opportunities, continue following the GIWW.
Fort Myers Beach and the Caloosahatchee River:
Once around Ft. Myers, the entrance to the Caloosahatchee River offers excellent protection. The river leads into the Okeechobee Waterway, a canal and lock system across Florida to the East Coast. This waterway is a scenic and practical alternative for avoiding open Gulf waters, though it requires navigation of locks and shallow areas.
Lake Okeechobee:
Navigating Lake Okeechobee can be tricky; the shallow draft and sudden weather changes demand vigilance. Check water levels and weather conditions before transit. The cross-state journey offers stunning views but requires adherence to bridge openings and lock schedules.
East Coast Arrival and onward to Ponce Inlet:
As you exit the Okeechobee Waterway at Stuart, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) provides a protected and scenic path towards Ponce Inlet. Stay vigilant for shifting sands and narrow channels, particularly between Daytona Beach and Ponce Inlet.
Ponce Inlet:
Your final port is both historic and practical, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. The area offers both entertainment and safe harbor. Entering the inlet requires attention to strong currents and shallow depths, especially when winds pick up.
Navigation Aids and Safety Recommendations:
Throughout your journey, modern navigation tools such as savvy navvy, Navionics, and Aqua Map can be indispensable for real-time chart updates and hazard recognition. Always adhere to marine conservation zones and respect local boating regulations to ensure a safe and compliant journey. The route is best suited for seasoned boaters comfortable with navigation and planning for both day and overnight voyages. Remember, safety should always guide your itinerary decisions, but with the right preparation, this trip is certain to be both memorable and rewarding.