Ponce Inlet to Jacksonville by boat

Setting sail from Ponce Inlet towards Jacksonville offers an exciting mix of serene waters and historical landmarks along Florida's picturesque east coast. Starting at Ponce Inlet, you'll embark from the southern end of Volusia County, famous for its iconic lighthouse. Make sure your vessel is shipshape and have your marine charts ready, as GPS alone shouldn’t be solely relied on, especially with the ever-shifting sands in this region.

Route Overview and Safety Considerations:

As you head northward, favor the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) for a safer, more sheltered passage compared to the open Atlantic Ocean. The ICW is well-marked, but keep a constant watch on the tidal currents and depths, as shoaling can occur.

Notable Points and Navigation Tips:

• Daytona Beach Area: Just a stone's throw from Ponce Inlet, Daytona Beach offers a world of attractions. While mainly an auto-racing hotspot, it’s worth stopping off to explore the beachside or nearby museums. Keep an eye out for the bridge clearances and potential speed restrictions.
• Tomoka Basin: Sailing past Ormond Beach, you’ll come across the Tomoka Basin. This area is a perfect spot for a brief anchor, especially if you’re looking to explore the Tomoka State Park. It provides a delightful natural retreat where you can stretch your legs onshore.
• Matanzas Inlet: Navigation becomes a little trickier here due to shifting sands. This is infamous for providing less than favorable depths outside the dredged channel, so stay alert and follow the markers precisely. If you need a safe haven, the Matanzas River offers sheltered anchorages where you can pause and enjoy sights like Fort Matanzas National Monument.
• St. Augustine: America’s oldest city is a must-see. The city marina is welcoming, but reservations are recommended, especially during the busy season. The waterways around St. Augustine can be crowded, so navigate cautiously. The Castillo de San Marcos is a historical fort worth visiting here.

Navigation Aids and Regulations:

Ensure your VHF radio is functioning for monitoring channels 16 and 9, which are critical for emergency and bridge openings, respectively. Also, respect any no-wake zones, particularly near populated areas or where designated sensitive shorelines are present. The ICW's consistent red-right-returning buoyage system will guide you north towards Jacksonville.

Prominent Shelters and Interests:

• Pablo Creek near Jacksonville: As you draw closer to Jacksonville, Pablo Creek offers a welcoming environment if the weather takes a turn. This area can provide an emergency anchorage with good holding ground.
• Jacksonville and the St. Johns River: Upon arrival, Jacksonville offers myriad activities from urban exploring to scenic riverfronts. Once there, be aware of increased traffic, especially commercial vessels upriver. The city often hosts events, providing an enticing culmination to your nautical journey.

Final Tips:

This route is particularly suitable for recreational boaters familiar with ICW navigation and eager to intermingle some cultural and natural stops along their journey. A day cruise or multi-day adventure, expect to find both charm and challenge in this Floridian escapade.

Always be prepared with up-to-date charts and sailing apps such as Navionics or savvy navvy to assist in real-time conditions and updates. These will prove invaluable, especially with the rapidly changing navigation conditions you may encounter along the way. Prioritize safety by anchoring early when unexpected weather hits and remember: the journey should be as enjoyable as the destination itself. Enjoy the voyage and the myriad discoveries waiting along Florida’s Atlantic coastline!