Key Colony Beach to Dania Beach by boat

Embarking on a boat trip from Key Colony Beach to Dania Beach is an exciting journey that offers a perfect blend of scenic cruising, interesting stops, and important navigation considerations to ensure safety. This route spans approximately 95 nautical miles up the beautiful southeast coast of Florida, traversing both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Let's dive into your pilotage plan.

Departure from Key Colony Beach:

Set off from Key Colony Beach, located in the Middle Keys. Make sure your vessel is prepared for open water cruising as you'll initially head out into the Atlantic Ocean. It's crucial to check your weather updates and confirm all safety gear is operational. As soon as you leave the marina, head northeast following the clear nautical charts and ensure you have visual contact with the navigational aids marking the channels.

Route Highlights:

1. Key Largo (Diver’s Paradise):
   Your first significant point of interest is Key Largo, renowned for its coral reefs and diving spots. If conditions permit and your vessel is equipped, consider anchoring nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Key Largo offers safe anchorage and an escape to some remarkable underwater sights if you'd like to take a break and explore.
2. Biscayne Bay:
   Continuing north, the journey will lead you into Biscayne Bay, a wide, navigable body of water north of Key Largo. As this area can have shallow parts, especially around the Featherbed Bank, stay vigilant and follow marked channels closely. Biscayne Bay provides several spots for safe anchorage should you need to seek shelter. No Name Harbor, located within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, is a well-protected spot that’s both scenic and convenient.
3. Miami Stretch:
   As you glide past Miami, you'll encounter busy waters with numerous ship and small boat traffic. Keep a keen eye on your chartplotter and VHF radio for guidance through this bustling stretch. Follow the marked ICW path closely here, especially around Government Cut, and maintain a comfortable speed. The Miami skyline provides a stunning backdrop, and you might consider a brief stop at Miami Beach Marina for refueling or exploration.
4. Hollywood Via Intracoastal Waterway:
   After Miami, the ICW offers a more tranquil experience, but with bridges that require understanding their opening hours if your mast height requires it. The route north toward Dania Beach is well-marked, but ensure you're alert around bridge transits and monitor your depth sounder for shallows.

Navigation Concerns and Safety:

Make sure you're familiar with all navigation marks - they are your most reliable guides on this voyage. Red-right-returning governs the ICW, meaning your red aids should be on your right when returning from sea and green on your left as you head north. In terms of restrictions, adhere strictly to speed regulations in manatee zones and wake restrictions, especially near populated and ecologically sensitive areas.

Arrival at Dania Beach:

Your voyage concludes at Dania Beach, where the marinas provide various services and a welcoming environment for boaters. Here, you can unwind and celebrate a successful cruise.

In preparation for the trip, utilize boating apps like savvy navvy for real-time navigation insight, weather forecasts, and waypoints. Also, ensure you have a reliable VHF radio and backup communication methods, and consider carrying nautical charts of the area.

This route is an excellent mix of coastal and ICW cruising ideal for boaters who enjoy a variety of maritime experiences, from open seas to protected inland waters, suitable for experienced skippers comfortable with navigating both oceanic and several bridge transits. With your skills and a readiness to adapt to variable conditions, this voyage promises stunning views and memorable stops while keeping safety at the forefront. Safe travels and enjoy the adventure!