Ft Lauderdale to Coconut Grove by boat

Pilotage Plan: From Fort Lauderdale, FL to Coconut Grove, FL

Starting Point: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, known for its numerous canals and beautiful waterfronts, is your launch pad. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is well-equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, a first aid kit, and a functioning VHF radio. Check the weather conditions as South Florida can experience sudden changes.

Route Overview:

1. Leaving Fort Lauderdale: As you depart from the coordinates (-80.110460, 26.119163), navigate south through the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). This route offers protected waters, ideal for various types of boats, particularly those seeking a leisurely cruise.
2. Navigational Aids: Pay attention to buoys marking the ICW, ensuring you do not stray into shallow areas. The buoys indicate safe passage, with green markers on your starboard (right) when heading south.
3. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: A short distance from Fort Lauderdale, this charming town offers a lovely beach and pier. A stop here could give you an opportunity for a quick swim or a tasty lunch at one of the local cafes.
4. Pompano Beach: Continue south on the ICW, and as you approach Pompano Beach, there are several marinas. This is a good point to dock if the weather conditions change suddenly. Pompano Beach boasts a beautiful fishing pier and public beach access, making it a refreshing stop.
5. Hillsboro Inlet: Just south of Pompano, Hillsboro Inlet marks another key navigational point. As you enter the inlet, watch for changes in tidal flow, and be prepared for narrow channels. The historic Hillsboro Lighthouse is a stunning sight and a great photo opportunity.
6. Boca Raton: Continuing south, Boca Raton is an ideal layover. The Boca Raton Inlet allows access to the ocean, and the ICW provides a calm route. Here, you have access to great dining options and shopping, along with parks like Red Reef Park for some relaxation.
7. Delray Beach: Further south, Delray Beach presents another charming town for a potential stop. The beach here is expansive, and the historic downtown area offers boutiques and cafes.
8. Navigating to Boynton Beach: As you progress, the ICW will bring you past Boynton Beach. This is another spot to consider for shelter if needed. Boynton Beach has several parks, including the Oceanfront Park, great for a shore stop.
9. Lake Worth: You’ll be approaching the Lake Worth area next. Keep an eye on the bridge openings for watercraft to pass through. Lake Worth is a scenic area, and if the weather is fine, a quick detour to the beach is worth it.
10. West Palm Beach: As you head inland, you might want to anchor here for the night. West Palm Beach has several attractions like the Norton Museum and a vibrant nightlife, perfect for unwinding after a day at sea.
11. Boynton Inlet and Lantana: Continue south until you reach the Lantana area. This marks the transition into more residential waterways and calmer locales. Stay attentive to the local vessels and water traffic here.
12. To Coconut Grove: You’ll now begin to curve around to the east side, heading towards Miami. The route will take you through the picturesque Biscayne Bay. Points of interest include the beautiful Key Biscayne and the scenic views of the Miami skyline as you approach Coconut Grove.

Arriving at Coconut Grove: Your journey culminates in Coconut Grove, known for its lush greenery and unique shopping. This area is perfect for boaters, with plenty of marinas available for docking. The lively marina and waterfront provide an ideal place to relax after your adventure.

Important Navigational Considerations:

• Watch for no-wake zones and observe local speed limits, especially in residential areas along the ICW.
• Pay close attention to tide charts, particularly near inlets and channels where currents can be swift.
• Ensure to review VHF communication channels beforehand, particularly for bridge openings along your route.

Weather Considerations: Always keep an eye on the weather forecasts, and have a contingency plan in place for sudden storms typical of South Florida.

Recommended Apps: Keep your navigation safe and efficient by using apps like Navionics and BoatUS for real-time information, alongside Savvy Navvy, which provides detailed charts and planning tools to make your journey as smooth as possible.

This carefully planned route guarantees a perfect blend of scenic views, potential fun stops, and safety considerations, making it ideal for a range of boaters, particularly those preferring a calmer, leisurely cruising experience along South Florida's picturesque coast. Enjoy your adventure!