Embarking on a boat trip from Ft. Myers to Longboat Key presents an opportunity to explore some of Florida's most picturesque coastline while ensuring both safety and enjoyment. This route is perfect for confident boaters who enjoy leisurely cruising and discovering quaint bays and interesting landmarks. As always, prudence and preparation are key to a successful journey.
Departure from Ft. Myers:
Your journey begins at one of Ft. Myers’ marinas. Ensure your vessel is shipshape—fuel tanks topped, safety equipment checked, and navigation devices functioning. Remember to verify the latest weather forecast and the tides as the wind and currents can pick up around this area.
First Leg to Boca Grande:
You'll head northwest past the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River, but stay vigilant as you navigate through these relatively shallow Gulf waters. Pay attention to the channel markers, especially in the Pine Island Sound. Spotting red and green buoys will be your constant guide, with red markers on your starboard side as you proceed northward.
Make a stop at Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. If the weather takes a turn, Gasparilla Sound offers a sheltered bay that provides excellent protection. Boca Grande is known for its charming village and the historic Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, a perfect place for a breather.
Passage through Charlotte Harbor:
As you continue north, entering Charlotte Harbor, it's crucial to stay within marked channels to avoid the shallows—particularly around the sandbars near the harbor's wide expanses. This area is famous for its abundant fishing opportunities, so recreational anglers might find this stretch particularly enjoyable. Keep an eye out for other boating traffic, especially on weekends when the harbor is busier.
Pine Island Sound and Punta Gorda:
Once past Charlotte Harbor, consider a stop at Punta Gorda for some interaction with local culture. The Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda is a great spot with unique shops and dining. If needed, you can use Burnt Store Marina as a refuge against adverse weather.
Transition to Sarasota Bay:
Navigate carefully around the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), paying keen attention to the signage and maintaining an appropriate speed as no-wake zones are carefully enforced in these waters to protect the wildlife and other boaters. As you glide past Venice, the Venice Inlet will be on your path. Keep an eye on the tide charts here as tides can be swift, sometimes leading to challenging conditions.
Arrival at Longboat Key:
Finally, as you near Longboat Key, you'll be welcomed by a blend of beautiful beaches and upscale resorts. Whitney Beach is a highlight, providing an idyllic stop with shimmering sands. Moore's Stone Crab Restaurant offers fine dining directly at the waterfront if a culinary treat is in order.
Remember, Longboat Pass can have fast-moving currents, so approach with caution. Longboat Key Club Moorings offers great docking facilities, and you’ll find suitable amenities to conclude your journey.
Safety and Navigation Tips:
Throughout your voyage, ensure you adhere to speed restrictions and be vigilant for manatees and other wildlife. The region is known for its wildlife, so maintaining a lookout is crucial. Given the varied depths and busy waterways, using reliable navigation tools is essential. Apps like savvy navvy can provide real-time updates and course plotting to help you stay confidently on track.
Navigating the Gulf Coast from Ft. Myers to Longboat Key is a rewarding adventure that blends the thrill of open water with Florida’s enchanting coastal tapestry. By respecting local navigation practices and keeping an eye on the weather, this trip will not only be safe but also one you'll wish to take again.