Embarking on a boat trip from Ft. Lauderdale to North Miami is a delightful journey through the vibrant waterways of South Florida, showcasing a perfect mix of urban allure and natural beauty. This route is particularly suitable for leisure cruisers who appreciate the blend of serene inland waters and occasional bustling river traffic. Let's chart a course that embraces safety, yet highlights the enjoyable facets of this trip.
Departure from Ft. Lauderdale
You'll set sail from the iconic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), which is well-marked and offers safe navigation throughout this segment of your journey. As you depart Ft. Lauderdale, keep a keen eye on the ICW’s markers, especially the numbered red and green lateral buoys that guide your path. Fort Lauderdale is renowned as "The Venice of America," and you'll pass through a network of charming canals. Be mindful of bridge openings; check the schedule for bridges like the 17th Street Causeway Bridge to ensure a smooth passage.
Route Highlights and Navigation
Cruising through this stretch, you'll soon approach Port Everglades, one of the busiest ports in Florida. Exercise heightened caution here, as commercial traffic is abundant. Use your VHF radio to stay informed of any traffic advisories. As you progress, the blue ICW dayboards will serve as your constant companions, helping you stay clear of shallow areas.
Points of Interest
Consider a stop at Hollywood Beach, known for its broadwalk and vibrant atmosphere. Just a short jaunt from the ICW, it's a splendid spot for a midday pit stop. Nearby, Whiskey Creek at Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park offers tranquil waters for anchoring and a chance to soak in coastal flora and fauna.
Shelter Bays
If weather conditions start to shift, Dania Cut-Off Canal provides a more secluded retreat. This narrow channel offers protection from wind and waves. Further along the ICW, Lake Mabel offers another sheltered area should you need to pause your journey.
Arrival at North Miami
As you continue south, passing by the Miami Beach area, you'll approach North Miami. Here, the waters remain well-sheltered by a barrier island, affording a pleasant ride into Oleta River State Park, a fantastic endpoint that lets you experience a lush nature escape while still being within reach of metropolitan amenities.
Veiligheid en voorschriften
Throughout this journey, always adhere to local speed regulations, which may vary in manatee zones or heavily populated areas. The use of boating apps will significantly enhance navigation efficiency and safety. In addition to paper charts and your GPS, consider using apps like savvy navvy, which provide real-time weather, route planning, and other crucial data to make your trip seamless.
In summary, the journey from Ft. Lauderdale to North Miami is a sublime blend of safe cruising and engaging stops, suitable for boaters who enjoy lively coastal cities and peaceful natural retreats. By following this pilotage plan, you'll ensure a secure and memorable voyage through one of Florida's most beloved waterways.