Naples to Fort Myers by boat

Pilotage Plan: Naples, Florida to Fort Myers, Florida

Departure: Naples, Florida
As you set sail from Naples, located at coordinates -81.8111666667, 26.1786666667, you’ll be greeted by the stunning backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. The overall cruising distance is approximately 20 nautical miles, and this journey is best suited for recreational boaters who appreciate both the tranquility of nature and the allure of coastal towns.

Route Overview
Your trip will involve a mix of open-water cruising and sheltered areas, providing options to adapt to varying weather conditions. The route primarily navigates in shallow coastal waters, so maintaining awareness of the tide schedules and water depths is essential.

Notable Navigation Considerations

1. Navigational Aids:
   Pay close attention to the various navigational markers along your route. Key to watch for include:

• The Naples Canalentrance markers, which will guide you initially.
  Markers 31 and 32leading out of the Naples Bay. These provide clear delineations for deeper waters and safe passage around shoals.
• Look out for the Caloosahatchee Rivermarkers as you near Fort Myers, indicating your approach to the river where care is needed due to changing tidal currents.

1. Hazards:

• Shallow waters are prevalent in this region. Stay alert for charts indicating depth changes, particularly as you navigate near shorelines and inlets.
• Watch out for the Big Carlos Pass, where currents can be strong, especially during peak tidal flow. Approach cautiously and avoid sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.

1. Local Restrictions:

• Be aware of no-wake zones particularly around residential areas and marinas, which not only protect the local environment but also ensure a smooth experience for all boaters.
• Seasonal manatee protection zones are in place; always keep a lookout for the “slow speed, minimum wake” signage and adhere to the posted regulations.

Shelters and Points of Interest Along the Way

Bays and Shelters:

• If the weather turns sour, consider taking refuge in Cocohatchee River, which offers safe harbor and is just to the north of your route. This area provides several inlets, perfect for waiting out storms.
  Estero Bay, just south of Fort Myers, also offers sheltered waters and picturesque views—a great place for a leisurely stop.

Points of Interest:
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park:This picturesque park meets your route and is ideal for a stopover. Known for its pristine beaches and nature trails, it offers an opportunity for a relaxing break from your journey.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve:If you're looking for a bit of adventure, head east toward this natural preserve for some paddleboarding or birdwatching. Though it involves a slight detour, seeing Florida’s wetlands is worth the trip.
Fort Myers Beach:A vibrant stop at the end of your journey, this area is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful sands. Great restaurants and local shops await once you arrive.

Final Approach to Fort Myers
As you approach Fort Myers from the west, keep a vigilant watch for local fishing traffic, especially near the river’s mouth. Once in the Caloosahatchee River, follow the channel markers carefully as this waterway can be crowded with recreational boats and commercial traffic.

The picturesque waterfront of Fort Myers awaits you, with the chance to explore a mix of historical sites and recreational activities.

Recommended Boating Apps
To ensure a seamless trip, consider downloading the following apps:
Savvy Navvyfor realtime navigation and weather updates.
Navionicsfor detailed nautical charts.
MarineTrafficfor tracking local vessel movements.

Embarking on this itinerary from Naples to Fort Myers is not only a practical journey but an experience riddled with natural beauty and delightful stops. Prioritizing safety measures and being mindful of navigational aids will make this trip enjoyable and stress-free for every boater. Enjoy your adventure!