Loggerhead Marina - De Palm Beach Gardens a Gordon Pass G21

Starting from Loggerhead Marina in Palm Beach Gardens, you're embarking on a picturesque journey down the eastern coastline of Florida, all the way to the serene and inviting waters near Gordon Pass G21. This route, steeped in both natural beauty and nautical challenge, offers a rich journey for the seasoned boater who appreciates both the tranquility of the sea and the thrill of navigation.

Pilotage Plan:

1. Departure from Loggerhead Marina - Palm Beach Gardens: Once you set sail, head southeast towards the Lake Worth Inlet. This area is relatively straightforward to navigate but requires attention due to heavy boat traffic and possible shifting shoals.
2. Lake Worth Inlet to Fort Lauderdale: After exiting the Lake Worth Inlet, you’ll cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), a key route famed for its safety and scenic views. Keep a keen eye on the chart and listen to VHF channels for updates on bridge openings and potential hazards. This leg offers numerous marinas and anchorages where you can seek shelter if the weather turns, such as Lake Boca Raton.
4. Points of Interest:
5. • Peanut Island, near the Lake Worth Inlet, offers a great spot for a leisurely stop with a snorkeling area.
   • Fort Lauderdale's beaches and canals, dubbed the "Venice of America," provide a delightful spectacle with plenty of opportunities for dock-and-dine experiences.
6. Fort Lauderdale to Miami: Moving on from Fort Lauderdale, you’ll navigate the bustling waters around Miami. Here, the ICW becomes narrower and busier, demanding constant vigilance. The Miami skyline serves as a stunning backdrop, making this leg uniquely appealing.
8. Shelter Locations:
9. • Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove offers a safe haven with ample amenities and is a welcoming spot for those who might find themselves needing to wait out inclement weather.
10. Miami to Key Largo: As you proceed south from Miami, you'll enter the open waters of Biscayne Bay, an area known for its clear waters and favorable sailing conditions. Be mindful of the weather; squalls can develop quickly in this region.
12. Points of Interest:
13. • Biscayne National Park, primarily aquatic, is perfect for those interested in snorkeling or diving among pristine coral reefs.
14. Key Largo to Marathon: Cruising through the Florida Keys, you'll navigate the Hawk Channel. Keep an eye out for coral heads and ensure your charts are up to date. This segment offers a blend of open ocean sailing with the safety of nearby land and several potential anchorage points.
16. Shelter Locations:
17. • Boot Key Harbor in Marathon is well-protected and known for its welcoming boater community.
18. Marathon to Gordon Pass G21: The final leg of your journey takes you into the Gulf of Mexico, towards Naples, before reaching your destination near Gordon Pass. This part of the route offers expansive views and a sense of openness that ocean-faring boaters crave.
20. Notable Navigational Aids:
21. • As you approach Gordon Pass, look out for the Gordon Pass Lighthouse, an essential marker for safe entry.

Throughout your journey, adhere to local boating regulations, including speed limits in manatee zones and no-wake zones to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of all water users. Also, always keep your navigation lights in working order, especially when traveling at dawn, dusk, or night.

Suitability: This route is tailored for the boater who relishes the blend of coastal cruising with the occasional open-sea adventure. It’s perfect for those with some experience under their belt who are comfortable navigating various water conditions and traffic levels.

Each leg of this journey not only challenges the navigator but also rewards with unmatched vistas and unique points of interest. Whether seeking shelter in one of the numerous bays and marinas or exploring local attractions, there's a balanced mix of safety and adventure. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse beauty of Florida's coastline, making this journey an unforgettable experience.