Pilotage Plan: Loggerhead Marina - Riviera Beach to Goodland Bay
Departure Point: The journey starts at the Loggerhead Marina in Riviera Beach Marina, a full-service marina with ample provisions for your journey. Before departure, ensure your vessel meets all safety standards and is equipped with necessary navigation aids.
Navigational Brief:
- Initial Waypoint: Set your course southward along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), ensuring you are equipped with up-to-date charts and a functional GPS system. The ICW offers a tranquil passage protected from the open ocean's vagaries, making it a perfect route for leisure boaters who prioritize safety but yearn for scenic beauty.
- Passing West Palm Beach: As you navigate south, the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront is a sight to behold, with its picturesque skyline and bustling waterfront. Maintain a keen lookout for other vessels, and adhere to the speed regulations through this congested area.
- Lake Worth Lagoon: Continuing south, Lake Worth Lagoon offers several marinas and anchorage areas should you need to dock or take cover due to unforeseen weather changes. This area is known for its beautiful vistas and is a great spot for a leisurely sail, showcasing Florida's lush coastal habitat.
- Boynton Beach & Delray Beach: These coastal towns are brimming with attractions, from inviting beaches to casual dining at waterfront restaurants. They are excellent stops for stretching your sea legs. Navigation through these areas is straightforward, but stay alert for the numerous pleasure craft and fishing boats.
- Boca Raton: Nearing Boca Raton, the ICW narrows and boat traffic increases. The Boca Raton Inlet is nearby but challenging due to shifting sands and should be approached with caution if necessary. The city's elegant waterfront is lined with notable landmarks, including the iconic Boca Raton Resort.
- Fort Lauderdale: Known as the "Venice of America", Fort Lauderdale's intricate canal system and vibrant marine life present a spectacular journey. The city's marine regulations are strictly enforced, so be mindful of speed limits and no-wake zones.
- Miami and Biscayne Bay: As you approach Miami, the skyline evolves, presenting a mix of modernity and the serene beauty of Biscayne Bay. It's crucial to be vigilant as boat traffic peaks here. Use the well-marked channels, and consider stopping at one of the marinas for supplies or a visit to famous attractions like the Miami Seaquarium.
- Florida Keys and Key Largo: Entering the Florida Keys, the atmosphere shifts to a laid-back, tropical vibe. Key Largo, the first major key en route, offers sheltered bays and services. This area is a paradise for snorkelers and divers, offering a chance to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
- Journey to Goodland Bay: The final leg towards Goodland Bay involves navigating the complex waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands. This area is less traveled and requires careful attention to navigation, particularly at low tide. An updated chartplotter and a depth sounder are indispensable tools here. The untouched natural beauty and abundance of wildlife make this a rewarding challenge for the adventurous boater.
Arrival at Goodland Bay: Nestled on the edge of the Everglades, Goodland Bay is a serene destination, offering a picturesque landscape that contrasts the vibrant cityscapes earlier in the journey. It's a haven for those seeking a connection with nature, away from the bustling marinas.
Safety over Fun, But Why Not Both?
This voyage from Loggerhead Marina - Riviera Beach to Goodland Bay is not just an exercise in navigation but an exploration of Florida's coastal splendor. For the conscientious boater who places safety at the forefront, the route offers sheltered waters, ample opportunities for safe anchorage, and well-equipped marinas, ensuring a journey that's as secure as it is enjoyable. Beyond safety, the route serves up slices of Florida's rich culture, natural beauty, and marine life, making it a quintessential cruise for those who delight in the art of boating with a taste for adventure and relaxation. This journey marries the thrill of exploration with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're navigating some of the safest and most scenic waters in the United States.
