Setting off from the vibrant coastal city of West Palm Beach on your boat, you are embarking on an adventure to Fort Myers Beach—a journey that promises both scenic vistas and memorable stops along the way. This route will require you to traverse both the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and the Okeechobee Waterway (OWW), a captivating stretch of waterways that link Florida's east and west coasts.
Departure from West Palm Beach:
Your voyage begins in West Palm Beach, where you’ll enter the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The ICW is well-marked with green and red channel markers that keep you safe from any unseen shoals. Pay close attention to the slower "Manatee Zones," signposted along the route—these zones require reduced speeds to protect the local wildlife.
Navigating the ICW South to the Okeechobee Waterway:
As you cruise southward, you’ll pass points like Lake Worth Lagoon, offering beautiful views and the chance for a picturesque anchorage at Munyon Island, a great place for a break and a picnic.
After Lake Worth, continue to the St. Lucie Inlet. Carefully steer through the inlet, known for its shifting shoals and strong currents. From here, you'll access the Okeechobee Waterway, marked by the St. Lucie Lock and Dam at Port St. Lucie, where you'll need to prepare for navigating the lock system. Familiarize yourself with the lock's schedule and procedures ahead of time.
Crossing Lake Okeechobee:
Once you’re on the Okeechobee Waterway, you have two choices—cross the expansive Lake Okeechobee directly if weather conditions and your boat permit (optimal for those comfortable with large open waters), or take the Rim Canal, a slightly longer but more protected route. Lake Okeechobee can be deceptively hazardous in adverse weather, so ensure that your vessel is equipped and the forecast favorable before embarking on the direct crossing.
Bays and Shelters En Route:
If needing shelter or rest, consider anchoring at the charming Clewiston, a small town at the southwestern edge of Lake Okeechobee, known as America’s Sweetest Town. It offers sheltered waters and the opportunity to recharge before the next leg toward Fort Myers. Further along, Moore Haven offers dockside facilities and a peaceful environment.
Continuing the Okeechobee Waterway West:
After Lake Okeechobee, follow the canal system west through the increasingly lush Floridian landscape. Be vigilant at lock systems such as Ortona and W.P. Franklin, ensuring your lines and crew are prepared for efficient locking procedures.
Approaching Fort Myers Beach:
Nearer to your destination, the Caloosahatchee River opens up, and you’ll start seeing the distinctly vibrant communities and waterways unique to the Gulf side of Florida. Follow the markers carefully through San Carlos Bay to reach Fort Myers Beach, renowned for its soft white sand shores and lively beachside atmosphere.
Useful Tips and Navigation Aids:
Final Thoughts:
This journey from coast to coast is perfect for boaters who enjoy intercoastal and lake settings with a knack for locking through systems and navigating a mix of serene canals and bustling waters. Prioritize safety by checking tides, weather, and local regulations, and your adventure will be both a safe and enjoyable experience. Welcome the unique Villain Florida’s backwaters, and get ready to explore both the biodiversity and cultural vibrancy that punctuates this aquatic journey.