**Pilotage Plan from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Tavernier, Florida****Departure Point: Fort Lauderdale, Florida**- **Coordinates**: -80.112, 26.10525- **Local Knowledge**: Fort Lauderdale, known for its expansive canal system and vibrant marine culture, offers excellent provisions and a warm welcome to boaters. There are numerous marinas and marine services available to refuel, stock up on supplies, and prepare for your journey.**Route Overview**This trip southward through the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is both picturesque and navigable, making it ideal for leisure cruisers and those looking for a pleasant day on the water. The total distance from Fort Lauderdale to Tavernier is approximately 70 nautical miles, making it a comfortable day trip or an overnight adventure for pleasure craft. This journey particularly suits recreational boaters seeking both a relaxing experience and beautiful scenery.**Leg 1: Fort Lauderdale to Hallandale Beach**- **Distance**: Approximately 8 nautical miles- **Navigational Aids**: Keep an eye out for the light structures and buoys, especially around the Dania Cutoff Canal. The Harris' Landing and the Dania Beach Cutoff Canal are useful reference points.- **Points of Interest**: This stretch features the scenic waterfront properties of Hollywood and Hallandale Beach. Consider stopping by the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a vibrant promenade lined with restaurants and shops.**Shelter Option**: Port Everglades is a deep-water harbor providing excellent shelter and amenities in case of rough weather.**Leg 2: Hallandale Beach to Biscayne Bay**- **Distance**: Approximately 10 nautical miles- **Navigational Aids**: Pay close attention to the buoy system and markers entering Biscayne Bay and the transitions into the open water.- **Points of Interest**: Biscayne Bay is teeming with beautiful islands and marine parks. You can explore and stop at the vibrant Stiltsville, a set of colorful wooden houses built on stilts in Biscayne Bay.**Shelter Option**: Before entering the ocean, consider taking refuge in the northern parts of Biscayne Bay near the No Name Harbor for excellent shelter.**Leg 3: Biscayne Bay to Key Largo**- **Distance**: Approximately 30 nautical miles- **Navigational Aids**: Maintain a watch on the navigation buoys and the red/green marker system as you make your way south along the keys; the Coral Gables Waterway offers an interesting transition into the Keys.- **Points of Interest**: Key Largo is famous for its diving and snorkeling opportunities. Don’t miss John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can enjoy vibrant underwater life.**Shelter Option**: Key Largo has several safe harbors where you can take refuge if weather conditions deteriorate, including the popular Florida Bay.**Leg 4: Key Largo to Tavernier**- **Distance**: Approximately 20 nautical miles- **Navigational Aids**: Keep an eye out for navigational markers, particularly as you approach Tavernier Creek, which is a significant point of reference.- **Points of Interest**: As you approach Tavernier, look for opportunities to visit the nearby Everglades National Park or take in the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.**Arrival Point: Tavernier, Florida**- **Coordinates**: -80.52, 25.010833- **Local Knowledge**: Tavernier is a quaint community known for its beautiful marine scenery and diverse wildlife. Here, you can find marinas that offer docking facilities and local businesses that cater to boaters.**Safety Considerations**- **Weather**: Always check local weather reports before departure and throughout your trip. Sudden squalls can appear, especially in the afternoon.- **Regulations**: Be aware of speed restrictions in no-wake zones, especially in crowded areas like the ICW. - **Equipment**: Ensure you have all required safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first aid kit. **Boating Apps**: To enhance your navigational experience, I recommend using savvy navvy along with other marine navigation apps, which can provide real-time GPS tracking and weather updates.This route from Fort Lauderdale to Tavernier encapsulates the charm and beauty of the Florida coast, combining safe harbors with opportunities for memorable experiences on the water. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a casual boater, this trip is designed to be enjoyable while prioritizing safety. Enjoy your journey!