Pilotage Plan from Miami, Florida to Riviera Beach, Florida
This trip along Florida's stunning southeastern coast from Miami to Riviera Beach is an excellent opportunity for any boater looking for a rewarding experience. You'll be gliding through beautiful waters with ample opportunities to admire the vibrant marine life, picturesque landscapes, and access scenic stopovers. However, it's important to plan carefully, considering navigational hazards, local regulations, and available havens in case weather conditions shift.
The journey from Miami to Riviera Beach spans approximately 60 nautical miles and will typically take between 6 to 8 hours depending on your vessel speed. The ideal route follows the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), which will keep you sheltered from open ocean swells and offer access to various attractions along the way.
As you set sail from Miami, depart from Biscayne Bay, which stretches out before you like a vast playground full of opportunities. Ensure your navigation equipment is calibrated, and monitor your GPS for position tracking and course plotting. Notable navigation aids include the Lighthouse at Cape Florida and Buoy 4 to mark your route as you venture into the ICW.
Shelter Option: Should the weather turn sour, head toward No Name Harbor, located on the southern side of Key Biscayne. It’s a well-known refuge with calm waters and a scenic ambiance—ideal for taking stock before proceeding.
As you continue up the ICW, keep your eyes out for navigation aids like buoys, which will help guide you safely. This route allows you to enjoy the sights of Miami Beach, with its beautiful high-rises and bustling atmosphere. Engage your charts carefully, as there can be shallow spots.
Points of Interest:
Continuing north, Fort Lauderdale offers more opportunities for exploration. Maintain a careful lookout for commercial vessels, as this area is quite busy.
Shelter Option: If needed, you can anchor or head to Bayshore Park for a safe haven.
Notable Landmarks:
As you sail past Boca Raton, you'll reach the West Palm Beach area. This stretch has well-maintained channels, but keep an eye out for local traffic and recreational boats.
Shelter Option: In the event conditions worsen, Lake Worth Lagoon provides a sheltered bay area to anchor securely.
Points of Interest:
As you approach Riviera Beach, watch out for the busy marine activity. The ICW widens here, so pay attention to your depth sounder to ensure you're clear of any hidden shoals.
End Destination: Riviera Beach harbors its marina, offering facilities for fuel, maintenance, and provisions. It's a perfect ending to a delightful journey.
1. Savvy Navvy: Essential for route planning, live weather updates, and any navigational queries.2. Navionics: Provides detailed marine charts and local hazard information.3. Windy: Real-time weather conditions and forecasts to help you plan your trip wisely.
This itinerary promises not only safety but also an enticing adventure through some of Florida's most beautiful coastal areas. So, gear up, check your equipment, and set sail for an unforgettable cruising experience! Enjoy your voyage!