|
 Ok,
now that we have got the first column out of the way, and have gotten
our focus on safety and fun, it is time to untie the lines and head
out into Biscayne Bay.
One of the fine privileges of living in Miami is the
fabulous array of day trips that are available to every boater. These
dynamic destinations are within the reach of every skipper, no matter
what type of craft is available, be it power, sail, or oar. These easy
day trips include Key Biscayne, Stiltsville, Fowey Rocks Light, Boca
Chita, Elliot Key, Ocean Reef ... and the list goes on. Everyone of
these areas offer clear waters and easy access. But often overlooked
is the proper way to approach these anchorage's. So let us go
cruising. The right way.
All of us should have a complete set of local charts
aboard. These charts, and a compass are all you will really need to
safely enjoy these beautiful destinations. You will need a chart that
completely covers Biscayne Bay and the surrounding ocean waters. Take
time to study your route before you go, and it is always a good idea
to pre-plot your intended route to show compass headings for each leg.
To do this, simply use existing aids to navigation on the chart, and
calculate the proper compass course from your place of departure. Most
of the charts available have the intracoastal waterway routes
pre-plotted with compass courses north and south. A simple way to get
going is to plot a course to and from the intracoastal route up and
down Biscayne Bay.
This type of course planning will ease the
navigational burden on the skipper while underway, and allow more time
to enjoy the ride and maintain a diligent lookout. Just as important,
it will enable you to avoid the shallows and fragile seagrass beds
that are now protected by law. What that protection means in practical
terms is that if you wander outside the channel or miss a marker and
find yourself aground on a seagrass bed, you will be potentially
liable for a civil penalty or fine. In fact, no grounded vessel is to
be removed from a protected seagrass bed unless and until an
inspection has been made to determine whether any damage has been
done. One bareboat charter customer recently found this out the hard
way and was presented with a total fine and tow bill that exceeded
$1200! It just make good sense to be prepared to safely navigate!
One of our favorite day trips in the bay is down to
the south end of Elliot Key, just north of Ceaser Creek. Here, the
water is shallow and warm, and the boat traffic is noticeably reduced,
and you can spend the day with family and friends without the constant
boat traffic that seems to be the rule up near University dock.
Speaking of Elliot Key, it is important to take notice of the posted
no wake zones that now extend the entire length of the island. While
marked well at the north end of the island, the zone extends the
entire length of the keys and should be respected.
Closer to home, the newly refurbished harbor and
island facilities at Boca Chita Key are truly enjoyable. While at Boca
Chita, be sure to stop by the information stand and review the rules
and regulations for enjoying this wonderful part of Biscayne National
Park. And while in the park, keep in mind that it is patrolled by Park
Rangers who can be very helpful in terms of answering questions or
directing you to interesting parts of the Park.
Whenever making the trek into the Park, keep in mind
that there are only two good channels in which to cross the Featherbed
Bank. Any failure to use these channels is likely to cause a grounding
and possibly damage the fragile grassbeds that we discussed above.
West Featherbed channel is the deepest and will usually carry at least
6 feet at any tide. This channel is part of the intracoastal waterway,
and thus is often within the magnetic courses that are plotted on the
chart. East Featherbed channel is located about a mile directly east
of Lewis Cut (between Sands and Boca Chit Keys) and is a little harder
to navigate than its western sister channel. To get to the East
channel (from the north), be sure to pass between markers Green
"1" and Flashing Red "2" which are about 2.25
miles west of the north side of Boca Chita Key. Following this easily
followed course will keep you off the Bank, and avoid an unplanned
encounter with Mr. Ranger. Once through the Featherbeds, common sense
and a good eye on the chart will keep you out of trouble.
Biscayne Bay is a truly fabulous place to cruise. In
our next column we will begin to explore some other "local"
destinations, including Bimini and Cat Cay in the Bahamas. The weather
is improving, the water is warming, and it is getting on toward time
for a Bahamas trip!
A great cruising area calls for a great cruising boat.
Any assistance needed in buying or selling a great cruising boat can
be had from Raul Lopez at Southeast Marine Group at Monty's in Coconut
Grove. Call Raul at 305-860-9305. Raul has the details on some great
cruising boats, both power and sail. Questions or comments can be
directed to me at anbate@mindspring,com.
Until next time, smooth sailing!
|
