Fort Lauderdale to Lantana by boat

Pilotage Plan: Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Lantana, Florida

Route Overview:This journey takes you along the stunning coastline of South Florida, a perfect route for both novice and experienced boaters who appreciate vibrant marine life, picturesque beaches, and charming towns. The trip covers a distance of approximately 20 nautical miles and can generally be completed within a few hours, depending on your speed and stops along the way.

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Departure: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting from Fort Lauderdale, known for its sprawling waterways and intricate canal systems, you will want to ensure your charts are up to date, and you have a good understanding of the local marine traffic. You'll be navigating a busy port area, so vigilance is key.

Hazards to consider:

• Heavy boat traffic, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Shallow waters in some areas, particularly near the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).
• Floating debris, especially after storms.

Recommended Departure Point:

Utilize the Fort Lauderdale Beach area as your starting point. It offers easy access to the ICW, a well-marked channel allowing for safe passage.

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The Route: Intracoastal Waterway

Follow the Intracoastal Waterway heading north, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by gorgeous waterfront homes, palm trees, and glimpses of local wildlife. This is a fantastic stretch for seeing dolphins and manatees if you're lucky!

Navigational Aids:

• Pay attention to the markers along the ICW, which are clearly labeled and spaced frequently.
• The ICW in this area is well-maintained, but consistent monitoring of your channel depth is crucial, especially during low tide.

Points of Interest Along the Way:

1. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park - A wonderful place to stop and explore. While in the park, take a short hike or enjoy a picnic before continuing your journey.2. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea - A quaint seaside town where you can drop anchor and explore local shops, grab a bite, or stroll along the beach.

Emergency Shelters:

• Broward County Marina - If the weather turns bad, this marina offers good shelter and has various facilities.

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Continuing North: Pompano Beach to Boynton Beach

As you navigate past Pompano Beach, you may be tempted to make a quick detour to check out some of the local reefs for snorkeling. It’s a popular spot!

Navigational Considerations:

• Watch for the Pompano Drop-off, a marked area that indicates a steeper drop to deeper waters.
• Stay alert for recreational fishing boats, especially near known fishing spots.

Bays for Shelter:

• Lake Worth Inlet - Should you encounter inclement weather, this inlet provides a safe haven with plenty of room to maneuver.

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Arrival: Lantana, Florida

As you near Lantana, you'll want to keep an eye out for the entrance to the Lantana Marina. This area is well-marked, and you’ll find friendly local boaters and staff ready to assist.

Final Navigation Tips:

• Look for channel markers as you approach, and adhere to speed restrictions—Lantana has a no-wake zone in much of the marina area.
• Notice the beautiful coastal views and make time to explore Lantana's famous beach park.

Local Attractions:

• The Lantana Nature Preserve is nearby, offering serene trails, making it a perfect post-arrival destination for nature lovers.

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Safety Precautions:

• Always check the weather forecast prior to your trip and have an emergency plan in place.
• Ensure your vessel is properly equipped with life jackets, flares, and a dependable communication device.
• Familiarize yourself with both federal and local boating regulations, especially regarding speed limits and no-wake zones.

Recommended Apps:

• Savvy Navvy: Offers fantastic route planning capabilities and real-time data.
• Navionics: A great companion for charts and downloadable maps.
• Windy: Use this for weather updates, wind forecasts, and conditions on the water.

This route from Fort Lauderdale to Lantana offers a delightful mix of safety, convenience, and scenic enjoyment, making it a perfect choice for boaters ready to explore the beautiful waterways of South Florida. Enjoy your voyage on the water!