Ft. Lauderdale to Lake Worth by boat

Pilotage Plan: Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Lake Worth, FL

Overview The journey from Ft. Lauderdale to Lake Worth presents a delightful opportunity for boaters to experience the beauty of South Florida's coastline. This route is particularly suitable for recreational boaters of all experience levels who wish to enjoy the scenic waters while remaining mindful of safety.

Start Point: Ft. Lauderdale, FL

• Coordinates: Long -80.12, Lat 26.1025
• Launching from: The New River or the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) offers marinas and plenty of local amenities for fuelling and provisioning.

Route Summary The primary navigation will follow the Intracoastal Waterway, with the distance to Lake Worth being approximately 25 nautical miles. The trip provides an excellent balance of safe passage and enchanting sights along the way.

Notable Bays and Shelters If weather turns unfavorable, several bays offer safe refuge:

• Biscayne Bay: Just south of Fort Lauderdale, this expansive bay offers ample shelter with numerous islands providing protection from wind.
• Victoria Park: A small but scenic area along the route, perfect for a quick, sheltered stop.

Points of Interest and Activities

• Hollywood Broadwalk: A vibrant beachside promenade with shops, eateries, and a lovely beach to explore for a mid-journey break.
• Dania Beach: A nice spot to anchor for lunch, with beautiful scenery and several waterfront restaurants.
• Port Everglades: A bustling port worthy of a look, especially if you're interested in commercial shipping activity. Worth remembering: exercise caution near the busy shipping lanes.

Navigational Aids and Considerations As you navigate the Intracoastal Waterway, be sure to pay attention to the range of navigational aids, including navigation buoys and markers that delineate the safe passage. Here are a few key points:

• Red Right Returning Rule: Always keep red markers on your right when returning from sea; this helps with safe navigation through the often-congested areas.
• Bridge Openings: Be aware of bridges along your route. Some require you to schedule openings in advance, while others might have regular operating hours. Specifically, check the Bahia Mar Bridge and the 17th Street Causeway Bridge for their schedules.

Local Restrictions and Regulations

• Observe the speed limits in areas with no-wake zones, especially near marinas and residential areas, as this is strictly enforced.
• Be aware of seasonal fishing regulations if you plan on fishing along the way—Florida has a rich marine ecosystem that is regularly monitored.

End Point: Lake Worth, FL

• Coordinates: Long -80.04502415657042, Lat 26.615953666475743

Arriving at Lake Worth, you'll find a lively city with a variety of attractions, including parks, restaurants, and the serene Lake Worth Lagoon—ideal for spending a leisurely afternoon on the water.

Safety Considerations

Safety should always be the priority when out on the water. Remember to carry a reliable VHF radio for communication, maintain an updated weather forecast (apps like WeatherBuoy and Savvy Navvy can be handy), and always wear life jackets when required.

This route excels not just because of the picturesque views and interesting stopovers, but significantly due to its safety and navigational considerations. It promises a calm journey for beginners and a pleasant cruise for seasoned boaters alike, ensuring that every moment on the water is memorable and relaxed. Enjoy your day on the water as you set sail on this magnificent journey!