Loggerhead Marina - Lantana Marina to Havn Residences and Yacht Club

Pilotage Plan: Loggerhead Marina - Lantana to Havn Residences and Yacht Club

Departure: Loggerhead Marina - Lantana

Your journey begins at the Loggerhead Marina located in the picturesque town of Lantana. Explore the marina’s amenities before setting sail; it’s an ideal launch point for both novice and experienced sailors, offering comprehensive services and a welcoming community of fellow boaters.

Navigational Overview and Safety:

Before you hoist the sails or power up the engines, ensure that you’ve checked the local weather conditions. The Florida coast can occasionally present fast-changing weather patterns, particularly during hurricane season (June through November). Equipping your vessel with up-to-date navigation charts, a GPS system, and communication equipment is imperative for a safe journey.

First Leg: Lake Worth Lagoon

• Initial Course: Set a southeastern course towards the Lake Worth Lagoon. This body of water offers a relatively sheltered passage, with scenic views of the Palm Beaches on your port side.
• Points of Interest: Keep an eye out for the historic Peanut Island near Riviera Beach. It hosts a park that is a good stop for picnics and snorkeling. However, monitor shallow waters and be mindful of swimmers.
• Hazards: The Lake Worth Lagoon has areas of shallow water, especially near inlets and sandbanks, so adhere to marked channels. Pay close attention to channel markers and the depth sounder to avoid grounding.

Entering the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW):

• Navigation: As you enter the ICW, you will encounter a mix of commercial vessels, fishing boats, and leisure craft. Maintain a vigilant watch and respect the speed limits, which vary through different zones. Your VHF radio is essential here for traffic advisories.
• Marine Life: The ICW is home to a diverse ecosystem. Keep a lookout for manatees, especially in designated manatee zones where speed restrictions are in place to protect these gentle giants.

Waypoints and Landmarks:

Your cruise along the ICW will be punctuated by numerous points of interest and potential stopovers:

• West Palm Beach: A vibrant town with a beautiful waterfront, gourmet dining, and shopping. Mooring here could offer a delightful break. Check local regulations for docking and anchorage.
• Jupiter Inlet: Offers a scenic view and a gateway to the ocean. If weather permits and your vessel is ocean-worthy, this could be an optional leg to stretch out into the Atlantic. However, the inlet can be tricky to navigate with strong currents, so it’s advisable only for experienced sailors with the right equipment.

Destination: Havn Residences and Yacht Club

Your journey concludes as you approach the luxurious Havn Residences and Yacht Club. This exclusive haven not only offers top-notch facilities but also a warm community of yachting enthusiasts. Ensure to contact the marina office via VHF Channel 16 for docking instructions and any local navigation advisories as you approach.

Summary:

This journey from Loggerhead Marina - Lantana to Havn Residences and Yacht Club provides a blend of sheltered inland cruising with opportunities for offshore adventures, suitable for a broad spectrum of yachting enthusiasts. The route offers safe harbors, spectacular views, and diverse wildlife, balanced with vibrant townships ripe for exploration. By adhering to safety protocols, checking weather conditions, and respecting navigation aids and local regulations, boaters can ensure a memorable and safe passage.

Remember: A well-prepared sailor is a safe sailor. Enjoy your voyage!