Pilotage Plan: North Miami Beach, Florida to North Palm Beach, Florida
Trip Overview:This route from North Miami Beach to North Palm Beach offers a delightful cruising experience through the coastal waters of South Florida. Your journey will primarily take you through the intracoastal waterways, allowing you to enjoy beautiful scenery while prioritizing safety amidst potential hazards. This trip is well-suited for intermediate to experienced boaters familiar with navigational aids and coastal navigation.
Section 1: Departure from North Miami Beach
- Starting Point: North Miami Beach (Coordinates: -80.1460167, 25.9341333)
- Hazards: As you depart, watch out for heavy traffic and any submerged obstacles typical of urban areas. Make sure to check for any local restrictions on wake zones.
Notable Landmarks:
- The Haulover Inlet to the northeast makes for a picturesque vista while you establish your course.
Navigation Tips:
- Use local charts to navigate through the busy waters. Ensure your vessel's GPS and communication devices are functioning, as this area can be quite congested.
Section 2: Heading North through Intracoastal Waterway
- Route: From North Miami Beach, head north along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).
Sheltering Bays:
- Biscayne Bay: Just to your east, this large bay offers several opportunities for shelter if the weather turns inclement. Consider stopping at one of the islands for a break or a swim.
Points of Interest:
- Stop by the beautiful beaches of Key Biscayne for some time on land before continuing north, especially if you enjoy nature trails and local parks.
Navigational Aids:
- Look out for ICW markers and buoys. Be especially cautious of low bridges and check the clearance heights as you approach them.
Section 3: Transition from Biscayne Bay to Port Everglades
- Mid-Point: As you approach Fort Lauderdale, be aware of Port Everglades to your west.
Hazards:
- Heavy shipping traffic is common in this area; heed the mariner's VHF radio announcements and keep a safe distance from larger vessels.
Sheltering Bays:
- Port Everglades: This bay can be a great refuge if conditions worsen. Review the entrance procedures before heading in.
Local Regulations:
- Observe all navigation rules in this busy port area and be alert for any restricted zones that may crop up.
Section 4: Continuing Northward Toward Palm Beach
- Route: Proceed in a generally northern direction, staying true to the ICW.
Points of Interest:
- Visit the historic town of Las Olas, where you can take a brief stop to enjoy local dining or shopping.
- Coconut Grove offers charming waterfront parks and is another wonderful place to relax before continuing your journey north.
Hazards:
- Keep an eye out for shallow areas as the waters can vary in depth, particularly as you navigate through the narrower sections of the ICW.
Navigational Aids:
- Ensure you reference the ICW charts frequently. Important markers include yellow "no wake" and red "safe water" aids.
Section 5: Arrival at North Palm Beach
- Destination: North Palm Beach (Coordinates: -80.0699667, 26.8288) is a charming area where you can find plenty of boating activities.
Sheltering Bays on Arrival:
- Lake Worth Lagoon: This lagoon offers good protection against strong winds and can serve as an excellent harbor.
Conclusion:As you approach North Palm Beach, expect slightly more tranquil waters compared to your earlier travels. The journey highlights the beauty and challenges of Florida's coast. Perfect for those looking for both scenic enjoyment and the thrill of navigation, this route provides essential safety tips intertwined with opportunities for delightful stops along the way.
Recommended Apps: To enhance your experience, consider downloading Savvy Navvy for real-time navigation. Other helpful apps include Navionics and the Coast Guard apps for weather updates and local alerts.
Enjoy your journey, and stay safe on the water!
