Setting out from the charming village of Ozona, nestled on Florida’s central west coast, set your compass for a delightful maritime journey south to the inviting shores of Venice. This route showcases the Gulf's majestic coastal scenery while balancing safety and enjoyment, making it ideal for experienced cruisers looking to enjoy a blend of tranquility and adventure.
Departure from Ozona
As you leave Ozona, you'll navigate through the Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Keep alert for shoals and shallow waters, especially if you're near the Anclote River's mouth; this area can be tricky without precise navigation. A dependable depth sounder is key here. Use the Anclote Key Light as your reliable guide during this segment. Heading into the Gulf, maintain regular checks on your heading to avoid drifting off course.
Route to Venice
As you move south, poised for a journey parallel to the coast, Pass-A-Grille Channel and the vicinity of St. Pete Beach are significant points of interest. The striking Don CeSar Hotel, affectionately known as Florida’s "Pink Palace," is a postcard-worthy sight against the sunset. However, watch for shifting sandbars in this region, a potential hazard for the unwary skipper. The Egmont Key area is another waypoint where vigilance is required due to occasional strong currents.
Should you need a respite or poor weather threatens, Boca Ciega Bay offers a sheltered retreat. The Bay’s marinas and amenities provide a welcoming haven for recharging both crew and vessel.
Continue southward, and as you near Sarasota Bay, you'll want to plot a smooth course around the numerous keys and narrow inlets. The Ringling Bridge is a notable landmark, offering sightseeing opportunities such as the Ringling Museum and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, appealing for those with an interest in culture and botanical beauty.
Navigational Considerations and Safety
Navigational aids are abundant along this coastal highway, including various buoys marking channels that require careful observation. Pay attention to regulatory markers, including "No Wake" zones, especially as you enter more populated areas or when wildlife is present. Familiarize yourself with local regulations, as these are closely monitored and aid in preserving the delicate marine environment.
Venice Arrival
Approaching Venice, the exuberant waterfront community offers beautifully maintained docks and is renowned for its prehistoric shark tooth hunting along its beautiful beaches. The Historic Venice Train Depot and Venetian Waterway Park provide excursions that can complement your maritime adventure perfectly.
For additional navigational support, apps like savvy navvy come highly recommended. Its user-friendly interface can aid with real-time updates on tidal shifts, weather forecasts, and other crucial data to ensure a safe and informed journey.
This itinerary not only promises a potentially enriching and scenic adventure but prioritizes maintaining safety through prudent preplanning and situational awareness. The chosen stops along the way offer a balance of cultural allures, making this voyage welcoming to both astute mariners and those with a curiosity for the coastline’s treasures. So, plot your course with care, keep your bearings, and embark on a journey that marries the lure of the open water with the richness of Florida’s western seaboard.