Seahaven Superyacht Marina to Bahia Honda Key

Pilotage Plan: Seahaven Superyacht Marina to Bahia Honda Key

Embarking from Seahaven Superyacht Marina:

Departure Preparation:

• Depart from Seahaven Superyacht Marina, ensuring all safety checks on the yacht have been completed.
• Familiarize yourself with local maritime regulations.
• Weather check: Ensure the forecast is favorable for the journey.
• Ensure all navigation equipment is functional and up to date.

Navigation Considerations:

• Upon departure, navigate through Miami's Intercoastal Waterway, paying attention to the speed limits and maneuvering carefully around other vessels, particularly in crowded areas.
• Make use of navigational aids such as buoys, lighthouses, and the GPS navigational system on board to maintain the correct course.

Points of Interest & Landmarks:

1. Stiltsville: Shortly after setting sail, pass by the unique and historic stilt houses resting in Biscayne Bay. Stiltsville offers an intriguing view and presents a fantastic photo opportunity.
2. Key Largo: Proceeding further, Key Largo serves as an excellent first major stop. It's not only the largest section of the Keys but also a renowned diving location, home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Should the weather act up, Key Largo offers safe harbors and engaging attractions such as the Underwater Hotel and various wreck diving sites.
3. Marathon: Halfway to Bahia Honda Key, Marathon is a wonderful midpoint to assess weather conditions and take a break. It has several marinas that can provide shelter, along with attractions like the Turtle Hospital and the Dolphin Research Center.

Safety Tips:

• Monitor the weather continuously; the Florida Keys can be prone to sudden weather changes, especially during hurricane season (June - November).
• Always keep communication channels open and operational for emergency broadcasts or changes in weather conditions.
• Be wary of shallow waters. Use your chart plotter and depth finder to avoid grounding, particularly around reef areas.

Final Destination - Bahiah Honda Key:

Upon approaching Bahia Honda Key, slow down and carefully navigate the channel. The waters around Bahia Honda are pristine but can be shallow and require attentive navigation. Bahia Honda State Park is your final landmark, offering some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida and a tranquil anchorage location.

Local Regulations:

• Familiarize yourself with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary regulations to ensure the protection of coral reefs and marine life.
• Fishing and lobstering may require specific permits; check local regulations if interested.

Conclusion:

This carefully laid out pilotage plan from Seahaven Superyacht Marina to Bahia Honda Key is designed for the safety-conscious yet adventurous boater. It guides you through bustling urban waterways, past historic landmarks, and into the heart of nature's marvels in the Keys. Offering shelter spots, points of interest, and navigational tips, this route promises a blend of excitement and safety. Suitable for both novice and experienced yachtsmen, it ensures a memorable journey through some of the most scenic waters of Florida.