Setting sail from Ft. Myers Beach to Dania Beach promises to be a truly remarkable journey along Florida's captivating coastline, offering scenic views and plenty of adventure. Let's chart this ideal course, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of coastal beauty, with a strong emphasis on safety to ensure a voyage that's both enjoyable and secure.
Day 1: Departing Ft. Myers Beach
As you set out from the historic Ft. Myers Beach, aim to steer southeast towards the Caloosahatchee River. This initial leg is relatively straightforward but don't be fooled by the gentle start—lots of crab pots and shallow areas require attention. Stick closely to the channel markers and be conscious of your boat's draft. Here, the most reliable navigation apps like savvy navvy can be your best friend, helping you dodge unexpected shoals.
First Stop: Naples
About 35 nautical miles from your starting point lies Naples, where you can drop anchor. This charming coastal city offers Pelican Bay’s protected waters for anchorage and a chance to explore the vibrant local dining scene. Mooring here can also be a safeguard against sudden weather changes—Naples Marina is a well-equipped refuge.
Day 2: Continuing to Marco Island
Departing Naples, navigate towards Marco Island, a further paradise for boaters. Pay heed to the channel markers leading into Capri Pass, and be aware of the frequent vessel traffic, particularly during the tourist season. Once at Marco Island, the Esplanade Marina is a great spot to rest, resupply, and perhaps indulge in some fish tacos at local eateries. Tigertail Beach’s white sands and calm waters offer a serene respite.
Day 3: Marco Island to Fort Lauderdale
From Marco Island, the course changes to a more easterly track, skirting around Cape Romano. As you make your way across the open Gulf waters to the southern tier of the Everglades, watch for sudden shoals and shifting sands, especially near Coon Key Light. Propel further into the open waters along the southern rim of the national park, but always keep an eye on those weather updates; the potentially tricky weather patterns of the Gulf Stream can sneak up fast.
Shelter & Safety:
During this portion of your journey, if conditions take a turn, Everglades City offers a safe haven. There's also Flamingo, a basic but functional marina within the Everglades National Park, providing some basic services and an incredible backdrop of mangroves and wildlife.
Day 4: Approaching Dania Beach
Your penultimate day ushers you eastward across the open ocean—a stretch requiring careful weather consideration. As you approach the mainland, keep an eye on the weather—any signs of escalating conditions and Miami’s Biscayne Bay offers another safe bay to duck into.
Navigating north from Miami, stick close to the Intracoastal Waterway for the final leg of the journey, paying close attention to bridge schedules and no-wake zones, especially near Fort Lauderdale. The New River and the intricate canals here are a joy, but require vigilance and patience as you weave your way to your final destination, Dania Beach.
Final Stop: Dania Beach
Having reached Dania Beach, you'll find a sailor's haven with convenient facilities for berthing and services to refresh your crew and vessel. While safety was top priority, we didn't compromise on the allure of discovery and leisure—encounters with Florida's mesmerizing landscape are guaranteed every nautical mile of the way.
Apps & Aids:
Throughout the journey, trusted apps such as savvy navvy, Navionics, and MyRadar can significantly assist you in managing tidal patterns, weather forecasts, and navigational variables. Meanwhile, practicing vigilant seamanship and maintaining dialogs with other boaters can further ensure a safe and memorable voyage along this enchanting route.