Starting your boat trip from Tequesta, nestled on Florida’s east coast, to Clearwater on the west coast, is an exciting maritime journey filled with stunning sights, interesting stops, and important navigational checkpoints. This journey will take you through a mix of inland waterways and open coastal passages, ensuring an engaging and varied sea adventure.
As you depart Tequesta, you'll begin your trip along Florida's Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This initial stretch is shielded from the Atlantic, providing a relatively calm start to your journey. The ICW, with its intra-coastal protection, is a wonderful option for those looking to steer clear of open sea challenges early on.
Approximately 20 nautical miles into your journey, stop by Peanut Island in the Lake Worth Lagoon. This small island has sheltered waters ideal for anchorage if you wish to break. It's a safe haven if the weather turns sour, but also a spot boasting charming beaches and the Peanut Island Park that offers snorkeling and picnicking opportunities.
Continuing your journey north along the ICW, you'll want to stay vigilant near Jupiter Inlet, known for shifting sandbars and swift currents, especially during ebb and flood tides. Approaching St. Lucie Inlet ahead, follow channel markers closely as you navigate through this complex harbor area known for both its natural beauty and frequent shifting shoals.
As you head farther along the ICW towards the Stuart area, consider stopping at Manatee Pocket. This body of water is a notably calm anchorage that provides easy access to local dining and supply points, an ideal rest or resupply point on your voyage.
Reaching the northern stretch of the ICW near Cocoa, you'll encounter the NASA causeways which offer impressive views of Cape Canaveral. Here, ensure you adhere to any vessel exclusion zones and controlled areas, particularly during rocket launch events.
Once in the vicinity of Daytona Beach, you have the chance to break at Halifax Harbor Marina. This full-service marina offers robust facilities including fuel, provisions, and minor repair services if needed, all while being surrounded by local attractions.
Leaving the confines of the ICW as you near the Jacksonville area, prepare to enter the St. Johns River, which will eventually guide you out into the Atlantic around Jacksonville Beach. From here, you'll navigate around the Florida peninsula, mindful of the strong Gulf Stream currents and weather conditions along the route.
Upon reaching Tampa Bay, consider stopping by Egmont Key, a tranquil spot rich in history and serene beaches. This island just before Clearwater is ideal for an overnight anchorage with substantial shelter from prevailing winds.
As you make the final approach into Clearwater, be aware of local navigational aids such as the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge. The currents and tidal influences here can be significant, so pay close attention to depth soundings and local charts.
Throughout your journey, use reliable boating apps for real-time navigation support and weather updates. Savvy Navvy should be among your digital toolkit, providing comprehensive route planning wrapped with tide and weather information, essential for a safe and enjoyable passage.
This itinerary suits the adventurous boater who appreciates both the serenity of quiet inland waters and the thrill of open-sea navigation. By focusing on safety first, you’ll ensure that your trip is as enjoyable as it is memorable, navigating through Florida’s diverse waterscapes while soaking in the endless charm of its coastal landmarks. Be prepared, be informed, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.