Delray Beach to Ft. Lauderdale by boat

Pilotage Plan: Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale

Embarking on a boat trip from Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale offers an extraordinary blend of scenic beauty, vibrant urban sights, and safe harbors. This 18 nautical mile journey along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway promises to be memorable and should ideally be undertaken by anyone from novice boaters to seasoned cruiser, all while ensuring safety remains our top priority.

Route Overview

Starting Point: Delray Beach, FloridaEnding Point: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

The journey will navigate through calm inland waters, utilizing the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW) which is well-marked and boasts numerous navigation aids. The ICW route ensures you are away from open sea hazards while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery, making it perfect for day trips or weekend excursions.

Points of Interest and Shelter Options

1. Delray Beach: - Spanish River Park: A gorgeous spot to start your journey, offering a sandy beach and picnic areas. - Intracoastal Waterway: The calm waters here are perfect for warm-up maneuvers before you head out.

2. Boca Raton: - Boca Raton Inlet: You may opt to detour here, with a well-marked entrance offering access to the Atlantic for those wishing to experience ocean waves. Also, this inlet provides a safe harbor if weather conditions become rough. - Boca Raton Marina: A plush marina that allows you to dock and explore this upscale area. Enjoy dining or servicing here if needed.

3. Boynton Beach: - Boynton Beach Inlet: Another potential detour point, this inlet comes with its own navigational challenges. It’s best to check tidal conditions before attempting entry. - Ocean Avenue Bridge: Keep an eye out for this navigational landmark; it’s also a good vantage point for spotting local wildlife.

4. Lake Worth (optional detour): - Should you need to wait out a storm or strong winds, heading north gives you a good shelter opportunity. Lake Worth is an area with numerous facilities and access to state parks.

5. Fort Lauderdale: - Las Olas Boulevard: As you approach the end of your journey, this iconic strip offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. - Fort Lauderdale Beach: A picturesque ending to your journey, with plenty of activities to enjoy once you dock.

Navigational Considerations

As you plan your trip, keep close attention to the following details:

• Navigation Aids: Utilize your charts and electronic devices for maintaining a proper course. Pay particular attention to markers and buoys that line the ICW. Regularly consult landmarks such as bridges and inlets.

• Weather Awareness: Before departure, check the weather forecasts through reliable apps. If storms are threatening, avoid the open waters.

• Barriers and Bridges: Expect to navigate under various bridges along your route. Most have specific clearance heights; note the bridge opening schedules. The drawbridges will open upon demand, but having the VHF radio ready to communicate can save you time.

• No-Wake Zones: Be mindful of areas marked as no-wake zones, particularly around marinas and residential areas, ensuring a smooth ride uninterrupted by excessive waves.

Safety Measures

Always ensure you are equipped with:

• Life jackets for all passengers.
• Emergency flares and a first aid kit.
• Sufficient fuel and an extra supply for any deviations or delays encountered.
• NOAA charts or a good navigation app.

Recommended Apps

For added convenience and safety, consider using boating apps to aid in navigation, weather monitoring, and situational awareness. I highly recommend:

• Savvy Navvy: A user-friendly app that provides charts, tidal information, and real-time navigation support.
• Navionics: Excellent for detailed marine charts.
• Weather Underground: For reliable weather alerts and forecasts.

With safety-first as our mantra, this trip along the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway promises plenty of experiences, stunning views, and opportunities for exploration. Whether you are a novice or a veteran sailor, you are sure to enjoy the calm waters, vibrant sights, and hospitable stops along the way. Prepare your vessel and let the adventure unfold!