I posted this in the Inshore discussion forum also, but wanted to put it here too. Im looking for some advice.
I have been thinking about making a trip down the Intracoastal Waterway to Key West. Have any of y’all ever made this trip? At this point I am just sorting out weather or not it’s even feasible. I only run a 19ft Sea Pro, but I the I had the thought that if I plan things right, and make fuel/food/overnight stay plans, it could be a great and fun learning experience.
What do y’all think?
I look forward to the discussion.
Matthew K. Mizell
Columbia, SC
Sea Pro 190CC
Johnson 115 4-Stroke
Could be done and likely be a lot of fun. I’ve made the trip from Ft. Lauderdale to Charleston. There were no issues and ample marinas along the way to tie up. I would just make sure you plan out the fuel stops ahead of time and call ahead to make sure marinas have fuel. I ran into a couple that showed fuel on the gps but in actually did not.
I have made that trip several times. However, I was in a larger boat that had cooking and sleeping provisions. I would suggest you invest in a bow cover and some sleeping bags. The ship’s store at the downtown Beaufort marina has or had books titled anchorages and marinas along the ICW (might find them on amazon.com). These books have detailed information as well as phone numbers and accommodations. There are a lot more anchorages than marinas. You also need to invest in the Maptech Chart Kit for the ICW, detailed nautical information for the entire ICW with mile markers so you know how far and how close. One other thing, check you GPS software, the newer stuff shows the ICW as purple line that makes staying in the channel much easer.
GOOD LUCK!
ZX
That,s a long trip! It will take a lot of fuel and costly at the marinas! good luck and take your time and enjoy!