Setting off from the charming village of Cortez, your boating adventure begins with the promise of a fantastic journey along Florida’s stunning west coast. As you prepare to leave the dock, ensure you're well-equipped with the essential charts, including the most recent local waterway guides and a reliable GPS system. Savvy navvy is a great navigation app to have on board, helping you stay updated with real-time navigational data.
Departing Cortez, you'll initially navigate the waters of Sarasota Bay, a region dotted with opportunities for sightseeing. Your first leg will be straightforward, but keep a watchful eye on your depth finder, as parts of this bay are notoriously shallow, especially near high tide.
As you cruise towards Longboat Key, pay particular attention to the channel markers that guide you. Stick to the marked intracoastal waterway (ICW) where possible, as this will offer the safest and most efficient passage. Sarasota Bay is home to an array of wildlife, so be prepared for potential dolphin sightings—always an exhilarating experience!
Upon reaching Longboat Pass, the northern entry to Sarasota Bay from the Gulf of Mexico, make sure to carefully observe the traffic and pay close attention to the tide tables. This area can be a bit tricky due to the swift tidal currents. Beyond the pass, if you're looking for a quick rest or the weather starts to turn, there's the sheltered Anna Maria Sound where you can find safe anchorage.
Continuing your way south, head towards Sarasota, where you can make a delightful stop at Marina Jack. Here, you can enjoy a wonderful meal, explore nearby scenic downtown Sarasota, or simply refuel and refresh. Resuming the journey from Sarasota, continue following the ICW, which is marked well but can have local shifting shoals, so constant vigilance is important.
As you progress towards Venice Inlet, watch for local crab pots and fishermen; these are ubiquitous and can be hard to spot under certain conditions. Having a crew member keep an eye out on the bow could be helpful. Past Venice, Lemon Bay offers another safe haven should you need to seek shelter from adverse conditions, equipped with several marinas and calm waters.
Next on your route is the vibrant town of Englewood. Here, you might consider a brief stop to enjoy one of the charming beach parks or grab a bite. Continuing southward into Gasparilla Sound, home to Boca Grande, be mindful of the tides and local fishing traffic. The Boca Grande Pass is renowned for its beauty and is a fishing mecca, especially for tarpon.
Once you’ve navigated through Charlotte Harbor, now southbound towards Pine Island Sound, you'll pass by several secluded islands and inlets. Cayo Costa is a wonderful spot if you fancy some beachcombing or just relaxing in a pristine natural setting.
For a final stretch towards Captiva, the channel through Pine Island Sound is marked by red and green buoys—follow them closely as the region is riddled with oyster beds and sandbars. Captiva itself offers an idyllic conclusion to your journey with its luxurious sandy beaches and charming village atmosphere. Keep in mind, Captiva has its own set of rules about boating speeds to protect the delicate marine life, so it's crucial to adhere to these regulations.
This route along the Gulf Coast from Cortez to Captiva is best suited for seasoned boaters who appreciate a balance of safety and leisure. Each stop and potential detour along the way offers its own unique slice of Florida's coastal charm, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Keep your charts handy, your eyes peeled, and your spirit adventurous—this promises to be a journey you won't soon forget. Safe travels, captain!