Setting off from the vibrant city of St. Petersburg, this boating adventure to Stuart promises both serenity and excitement, hugging the picturesque western coast of Florida before crossing the peninsula to the Atlantic side. As you prepare your vessel for departure, it’s important to remember the fundamentals of navigation and safety, and this plan will guide you along this diverse and scenic route.
Begin your journey by making your way out of the St. Petersburg Marina, keeping a keen eye on the buoys marking the channel as you enter the open waters of Tampa Bay. As you navigate through the bay, the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge looms ahead—a marvel of engineering and a landmark worthy of a few photos. The bridge's high air draft will accommodate your passage safely, but it's key to verify your vessel’s exact height to ensure no surprises.
Once you’ve cleared Tampa Bay, you’ll find yourself on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW), offering not just a sheltered route from the wilder open Gulf waters, but also breathtaking sights—pristine beaches, tranquil mangroves, and enthralling marine life. This passage is especially ideal for those taking the journey in medium-sized yachts or motorboats, offering a blend of both protection and adventure.
As you cruise southwards along the GIWW, Sarasota's charming waterfront offers a delightful stopover. Whether you anchor for a spell or decide to dock and explore the renowned Ringling Museum or take a stroll along St. Armands Circle, ensure you're attentive to the local anchoring regulations and sensitive environmental areas noted by navigation aids.
Continue your voyage, and soon you’ll approach Charlotte Harbor—a significant natural harbor perfect for taking shelter should inclement weather arise. Large enough for maneuvering yet offering multiple anchorages, it's a dependable harbor of refuge.
Upon leaving Charlotte Harbor, approach Fort Myers with caution; the area can be bustling with local boating traffic, particularly on weekends. The Caloosahatchee River lies ahead, forming part of the Okeechobee Waterway which will carry you across the state. Before setting off along this path, verify your vessel’s draft against Lake Okeechobee’s current levels, as drought periods can result in lower navigable depths.
Travelling across Lake Okeechobee is a captivating experience, as the expansive waters present a unique inland feel, juxtaposed against Florida's peninsular backdrop. Beyond the lake, the remaining Okeechobee Waterway sections, particularly the St. Lucie Canal, present idyllic scenes lined with lush flora and fauna.
As you near the Atlantic coast and the city of Stuart, mariners will find numerous marinas and docking options catering to a variety of boating needs. Once docked, Stuart’s charming downtown offers plenty of restaurants, parks, and even the Elliott Museum for a taste of culture and history.
Throughout your trip, numerous navigational aids such as buoys and markers will guide your way—pay special attention to these, respecting the ICW’s lateral system to avoid shallow groundings or restricted areas. It’s essential to carry a reliable chart plotter, and boating apps such as savvy navvy, Navionics, and Aqua Map can provide invaluable updates on tides, weather forecasts, and more.
This journey, blending the vitality of Florida’s seas, rivers, and lakes, is perfect for boaters seeking a mix of sheltered cruising, with opportunities for both leisurely exploration and serious navigation. Always prioritize safety, check the weather frequently, and maintain open communication channels for maritime advisories. Whether seasoned or relatively new to the boating scene, this route promises an engaging expedition filled with natural beauty, cultural touchstones, and perhaps most importantly—a series of safe and enjoyable experiences.