Setting off from the vibrant Fort Myers Beach, your journey to Lantana will take you through some of Florida’s most beautiful and diverse coastal waters. Before you start, ensure your vessel is well equipped, and all safety gear is on board. Weather conditions can change abruptly on these waters, so continuous monitoring via reliable weather apps is crucial. Savvy Navvy, favored by many boaters for its comprehensive charts and real-time data, can be invaluable for this trip.
As you leave Fort Myers Beach, head toward San Carlos Bay, making sure to navigate with care through Matanzas Pass. Strong currents and narrow channels here require your attention. Look out for the green can markers leading you safely away from shallow areas.
Once you’re in open waters and cruising north along the Gulf, Pine Island Sound offers a scenic run. For those seeking a safe harbor or a place to stop and explore, the charming Cabbage Key is a perfect stopover. It's a unique little island, famous for its "Dollar Bill Bar" and delicious cheeseburgers—a delightful pitstop in the spirit of adventure.
Continuing north, you'll enter Gasparilla Sound—keep an eye open for dolphin pods often seen in these parts. If you need shelter from a passing squall, Stump Pass is a well-known refuge. The entrance can be tricky, so rely on your nautical charts and depth sounder.
As you begin your crossing eastward toward the Lake Okeechobee Waterway, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway provides skilled boaters with plenty of markers—primarily following a red-to-port, green-to-starboard orientation. However, remember, crossing from the gulf side, markers reverse once you enter the Okeechobee.
Upon entering the Okeechobee Waterway, there's a shift in scenery—from the bustling gulf to the serene inland passages. On your port side, before entering the Caloosahatchee River, Franklin Lock Campground is a tranquil stopover point providing excellent facilities, should you wish to rest.
You'll navigate through a series of locks—such as St. Lucie Lock—that are quite an experience. Familiarize yourself with operation times and procedures before reaching them. Ensure your fenders are ready, as they’re essential during the lock operations.
As you cross Lake Okeechobee, you’ll want to follow the Rim Canal to avoid the shallows that can occur in dry seasons. An eye on the horizon and your depth sounder will guide you safely across Florida's largest freshwater lake.
On the eastern side, as you head towards Stuart, you’ll find the St. Lucie River widening. A jaunt over to Manatee Pocket provides a delightful excursion. Here, you’ll find a friendly marina, dining options, and a chance to replenish supplies.
As you approach the bustling east coast, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway can be thrilling, with frequent bascule bridges like those near Jupiter and Singer Island manned for timely passage. Always check bridge schedules to plan your timing effectively.
Finally, edging toward Lantana, stay cautious of local traffic—these waters are popular. The oceanfront at Lantana is your ultimate destination, with excellent docking facilities at the Loggerhead Marina.
This Intercoastal journey from the Gulf to the Atlantic is a perfect route for experienced boaters. It serves a delightful blend of open water cruising, sheltered inland passages, cultural stop-offs, and natural beauty. Ensuring safety at each step, while enjoying the sights and sidesteps, makes for memorable cruising tailored especially for the confident navigator eager for adventure yet prudent with precautions.