Leaving the charming Key Colony Beach marks the beginning of an exciting maritime journey towards Aventura. As you set sail, the beautiful expanse of the Atlantic Ocean unfurls to your east while the vibrant Keys line your starboard side. Take a moment to soak in the delightful blend of natural beauty and nautical adventure that awaits.
Your journey begins by steering north out of Key Colony Beach through the well-marked channel. On your way up the Middle Keys, make sure to hug the Atlantic side for deeper waters and easier navigation. Keep a lookout for Turtle Reef, renowned for its thriving marine life and great snorkeling opportunities, which could be a delightful early stop.
As you head north, the next major passage involves navigating through the Seven Mile Bridge area. This is both an iconic stretch and a critical checkpoint in your itinerary. The main channel beneath the bridge is well marked, however, act carefully as both commercial and recreational traffic can be quite busy. Keep your VHF radio on channel 16 for updates on any local advisories or changes in traffic patterns.
Once you've cleared the bridge, Bahia Honda State Park presents itself as a serene stopover. With its protected anchorage, this is a perfect place for you to rest or for an overnight stay, especially if weather conditions advise caution. Along this route, it's also worth noting the varied wildlife—dolphins frequently make appearances, much to the delight of cruisers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Continuing north past the Florida Keys, channel markers will guide your path, but vigilance is required, particularly near dense coral formations or sandbars which can shift over time. As you move toward Biscayne Bay, be mindful of its complex and shallow waters. Here, electronic charting tools, such as savvy navvy, are invaluable for maintaining safe depths and staying within navigation channels.
In the expansive Biscayne National Park waters, you'll find several islands including Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key. They offer dockage for a brief exploration on land, perhaps indulging in quiet walks or a historical dig into the lighthouse on Boca Chita. But remember to check the park's specific anchorage restrictions and obstructions, especially since seagrass and fragile coral formations are protected here.
Finally, as you draw closer to Aventura, the waters become more congested with boating traffic, given its proximity to Miami. Pay careful attention to vessel speed restrictions and the marked manatee zones to avoid penalties and fines. The Intracoastal Waterway will guide you smoothly to your destination, with its reliable system of markers (red, right, returning) assuring a straightforward navigation.
This route from Key Colony Beach to Aventura is particularly well-suited for experienced boaters who crave a blend of adventure and tranquility. The journey takes you through some of Florida's most scenic and ecologically rich coastal areas, offering ample opportunities to appreciate the natural surroundings while staying attuned to the demands of open-water navigation.
Equipped with conscientious navigation and an eye on the weather, your trip becomes not only a thrilling voyage but also a celebration of the unique maritime beauty that defines the Florida Keys to the Florida mainland. Safe travels on your nautical adventure, and may your voyage be as delightful as the destinations themselves.