Riviera Beach to Boynton Beach by boat

Pilotage Plan: Riviera Beach, Florida to Boynton Beach, Florida

Overview

This trip from Riviera Beach to Boynton Beach showcases the beautiful coastal waters of Southeast Florida, taking you through stunning seaside views, intriguing landforms, and charming coastal towns. Spanning approximately 18 nautical miles, this waterway is well-suited for both novice and experienced boaters. Your journey will incorporate navigational aids, safety considerations, and points of interest while ensuring you are well-informed about potential hazards.

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Starting Point: Riviera Beach, FL

Before you set off, take a moment to enjoy bustling Riviera Beach. You can stop by the iconic Riviera Beach Marina, where you can stock up on supplies or grab a bite. The marina offers a safe harbor to begin your trip.

Hazard Alerts: Be aware of the nearby Palm Beach Inlet, known for its strong currents, particularly on the outgoing tide. Ensure to time your departure with the tide for smoother navigation.

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The Route

1.

: Navigate out of the marina and head southeast towards the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). Follow the signage carefully.

2. Navigational Aids: Utilize the range markers and buoys marked on your charts. Look for the red and green channel markers, which help keep you in the safe navigational channel of the ICW.

3. West Palm Beach: As you glide along the ICW, prepare for a brief detour around West Palm Beach. While it's not a direct stopping point on this itinerary, the skyline offers a fantastic backdrop. The ICW here is wide, but be mindful of boat traffic, particularly during weekends.

4. Keeping Safe: Pay attention to local speed limits, particularly as you approach residential areas along the waterway. Many areas have no-wake zones which ensure the safety of small craft and swimmers.

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Points of Interest

• Phil Foster Park: This is your first potential stop. Located on the west side of the Blue Heron Bridge, it offers excellent snorkeling and beach activities. It’s also a great spot to wait out any inclement weather.
• Lake Worth Lagoon: Make a potential detour to check out this picturesque lagoon system. It's a haven for wildlife, and you may witness dolphins or manatees, making it a picturesque and memorable stop.

5. Navigational Considerations: As you continue south, monitor your charts for unmarked shallows and sandbars near the ICW. The depth can fluctuate with the tide and recent weather patterns.

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Shelter Stops

If weather conditions become less favorable or you simply want to rest, consider:
• Boynton Beach Inlet: This is a safe harbor and provides good shelter from rough waters if you need to anchor down before heading into Boynton Beach.

6. Hazard Awareness: Always keep an eye on the weather, as squalls can arise quickly in this region, especially in summer months. Having reliable weather apps, such as Savvy Navvy, will give you real-time data and help navigate these unforeseen changes.

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Final Approach: Boynton Beach

As you complete your journey, you'll enter Boynton Beach; the harbor approaches are straightforward, lined with ample local marine infrastructure. Here, you can dock at either the Boynton Harbor Marina or the nearby public boat ramp.

• Local Attractions: Once docked, explore the Boynton Beach Oceanfront Park for a relaxed day by the beach or check out the local dining options.

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Conclusion

This route from Riviera Beach to Boynton Beach is remarkably scenic, blending the fun of coastal cruising with crucial safety protocols. Remember to stay vigilant about local navigation rules and weather changes while enjoying the immense beauty of Florida's coastline. Happy boating!