Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Miami, a haven for boaters with its shimmering waters and subtropical climate. Departing from Miami, your journey to Moore Haven will take you across diverse waterways, rich with both natural beauty and navigational challenges. This route is suited for boaters who enjoy coastal cruising with a mix of both urban and tranquil settings.
As you set sail, heading west from Miami on the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), make sure to keep a close eye on navigational aids such as the regular ICW markers: red on the right when returning from sea. The ICW itself is well-marked but remains a busy waterway, so diligent observation and adherence to right-of-way conventions are vital.
Your first potential stop could be at Biscayne Bay, just a few miles from Miami. This broad, shallow bay offers good protection and is lined with several islands and parks, like Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, where a picnic and stretch on the sand is entirely warranted should the weather permit. However, always check local weather forecasts for sudden tropical storms that can sweep through.
As you continue northwest, you’ll approach Card Sound and Barnes Sound. These areas are known for their picturesque mangrove forests and excellent fishing opportunities. It's mostly sheltered, providing natural beauty and a calm environment to weather out unexpected conditions.
Be particularly vigilant as you approach Key Largo, one of the biggest islands in the Florida Keys, where the waters can become shallow and tricky. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a remarkable point of interest here, offering a chance to dive into the underwater world with its vibrant corals and marine life.
Continuing your journey, follow the ICW past the beautiful shores of the Everglades, but remain cautious of the variable water depths and the possibility of encountering manatees—federal regulations require you to slow to idle speed in manatee zones for their safety and yours.
Upon reaching the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River, shift your focus to navigating the management of locks as you work your way through the Okeechobee Waterway. The locks at St. Lucie, Port Mayaca, and Ortona require careful operation and timing. It's crucial to verify each lock’s scheduling and operational status beforehand, and it's a good idea to contact the lockmasters on VHF channel 9 for specific instructions.
While on the Okeechobee Waterway, take note of Lake Okeechobee's water levels which can greatly affect transit conditions. The northern route across the lake is advisable during high water, while the rim canal is preferable when water levels are low.
About halfway through this cross-state passage, consider a visit to Clewiston for respite. This small lakeside town offers a view of Florida’s interior beauty and is a welcoming spot for amenities and dockage should you need it.
As you make your final approach to Moore Haven, take a moment to enjoy the serene countryside. Here, the Caloosahatchee River meanders its way through agricultural lands, leaving behind the hustle of the coastal regions.
Always consult up-to-date charts and navigation apps to complement your journey, such as savvy navvy, which can help in plotting courses and predicting weather changes. Other recommended apps include Navionics for detailed electronic charts and Windy for reliable weather forecasts.
This route offers an enticing mix of vibrant marine life, peaceful landscapes, and cultural gems along the way. A boater prepared for dynamic conditions and equipped with local knowledge will find this voyage both challenging and rewarding. Safety is your top priority, so stay informed, respect the waterways, and enjoy the magnificent journey from Miami to Moore Haven.