Dania Beach to Ft Lauderdale by boat

Pilotage Plan from Dania Beach to Fort Lauderdale

Starting Point: Dania Beach, FL

Your journey starts at the tranquil waters of Dania Beach, a perfect launching point for a short cruise filled with captivating scenery and coastal charm. As you prepare to head to Fort Lauderdale, ensure you check the weather conditions, as Florida's storms can pop up unexpectedly.

First Leg: Dania Beach to Fort Lauderdale

Your initial route will take you along the beautiful coastline, approximately 5 nautical miles northward, favoring the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) for safety and comfort. The ICW provides a protected pathway with ample shelter from rough seas, making it ideal for boaters of all experience levels, from novice to seasoned sailors.

Points of Interest

1. Dania Beach Pier: Just as you set sail, take a moment to admire the pier. It’s a local favorite for fishing and offers scenic views. Consider making a quick stop here if time allows.
2. Hollywood Beach: As you glide past, you’ll notice the vibrant shoreline lined with a bustling promenade. Should you want a refreshing beach stop, this area is equipped with dining options and shopping.
3. John U. Lloyd Beach State Park: Located along your route, this state park offers beautiful natural habitats and a sense of isolation away from urban life. If you find your schedule allows, grab a mooring or drop anchor to enjoy a walk through the park.

Bays for Shelter

The waters between Dania Beach and Fort Lauderdale are generally calm, but should conditions change, consider seeking refuge in Broward county’s canalsor even heading to nearby Lake Sylvia. Both locations provide good shelter, should winds pick up or precipitation start to fall.

Navigation Aids and Hazards

As you transition through this route, pay close attention to several navigation aids:

ICW Markers: Generally well-marked, the ICW has buoys indicating the best navigational routes and depths. Maintain awareness of their positions, especially near shallow areas.

Port Everglades Entrance: As you approach Fort Lauderdale, you'll notice the entrance to Port Everglades. Watch for commercial vessels, as this is a busy channel. You'll want to adhere to the "Rules of the Road" to ensure safe navigation.

Fort Lauderdale’s Bridges: As you near your destination, you'll encounter several bridges, such as the SE 17th Street Causeway Bridge. Confirm the bridge opening schedule ahead of time, especially if you're in a vessel that needs clearance.

Local Regulations and Considerations

Be mindful of any local speed limits, especially in residential areas and near marinas. The city of Fort Lauderdale is known for strict adherence to these regulations, and fines can be steep. Always check for No Wake Zonesas you enter urban waterways.

Conclusion: A Safe & Memorable Expedition

This route through Dania Beach to Fort Lauderdale is not only a practical trip for safe navigation, it's also a scenic introduction to South Florida's stunning waterways. Ideal for boaters of all levels, this journey provides opportunities to anchor up, explore local sights, and have fun while ensuring you are never too far from possible shelter.

For navigation assistance, consider using apps like savvy navvy, which allows for clear route planning and real-time adjustments based on changing conditions. Other useful apps include Navionicsfor topographical info, and Windyto keep you updated on weather changes.

Set sail with confidence and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s waterways!