Treasure Island to St. Petersburg by boat

Pilotage Plan from Treasure Island, Florida to St. Petersburg, Florida

Overview of the Trip

This journey from Treasure Island to St. Petersburg is a delightful short cruise across the scenic Tampa Bay area, suitable for recreational boaters of all experience levels. With stunning coastal views, calm waters, and plenty of interesting landmarks, this route is both straightforward and engaging.

Departure: Treasure Island, Florida

Start Point: Treasure Island, clearly marked by its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant marine life, serves as a great starting point for your adventure. Before you cast off, ensure your boat and safety equipment are in check and that you have a reliable weather forecast, as conditions can change quickly in this region.

Notable Landmarks Along the Route

1. John's Pass: Just south of Treasure Island, this bustling area is known for its vibrant boardwalk, shops, and restaurants. If time permits, you can venture into the pass and enjoy some local cuisine or a leisure stroll.

2. Blind Pass: As you head toward St. Petersburg, you’ll pass through Blind Pass. This shallow, narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Mexico to the Intracoastal Waterway and is an excellent shelter for anchoring if weather conditions worsen.

3. Isla Del Sol: Continuing to navigate north, you'll come across Isla Del Sol, a beautiful residential area and golf course. This is not only a picturesque stop but also offers scenic views of the intracoastal landscape.

4. St. Petersburg Pier: Approaching your destination, the iconic St. Petersburg Pier is visible and serves as a great point to anchor and explore. The Pier is bustling with activities, shops, and dining options - a perfect way to end your day on the water.

Navigational Considerations

Navigational Aids:

• Buoy Marks: Pay attention to the range markers and the navigational buoys as you navigate. Be especially careful with the area's shifting currents and make sure to stay within the marked channel.
• Local Charts: Having updated nautical charts is essential. Consult the NOAA charts for Tampa Bay that will guide you safely through the local waters.

Local Restrictions:

• Speed Limits: Be mindful of the speed limits, especially in the narrow passages and residential areas. These are often strictly enforced to protect marine life and local businesses.
• No Wake Zones: Keep an eye out for no-wake zones, particularly around Blind Pass and the St. Petersburg area, to ensure a safe and responsible journey.

Points of Shelter

If the weather turns unfavorable, several bays along your route offer safe anchorage:

• Blind Pass: This location is your best bet for shelter, providing anchorage with protection from strong winds and waves.
• Isla Del Sol Bay: Depending on the wind direction, this could also provide some peace and calm if necessary.

Conclusion: Perfect for Recreational Boaters

This route is perfect for those looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the water, explore local attractions, or simply appreciate the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Ensure your vessel is equipped with essential safety gear, such as life jackets, flares, and communication devices for emergencies.

Additionally, you may find it beneficial to download boating apps for navigation and safety. Notably, Savvy Navvy offers comprehensive routing information, tidal data, and all navigational aids you need for a safe journey. Other suggested apps include Navionics for maps and Windy for weather forecasts, ensuring you have all the tools needed for a smooth trip.

Stay vigilant, enjoy the waters, and embrace the adventure that awaits between Treasure Island and St. Petersburg!