Northern Gulf boaters are accustomed to the year round testing by the US Navy, so this reminder is for new Gulf navigators. As stated, the test area is southwest of Panama City.

FL – GULF OF MEXICO – PANAMA CITY – U.S. Navy Testing
Commencing approximately January 8, 2019 and continuing until approximately February 8, 2019, the U.S. Navy will be conducting test operations in an area generally located 12 nautical miles south-west of Panama City Pass, Florida. The test area will include items moored in the water column. Additionally, unmanned underwater vehicle operations will be conducted in the test areas. It is requested that all surface vessels remain at least 1 nautical mile from the test area. Support/Guard vessels include M/V PATRIOT, PSC-12 and other naval support craft which will be on station in the testing area during the test events.  All concerned traffic should contact these support vessels via VHF-FM Channel 16, heed all instructions given and stay a minimum of 1 nautical mile from test vessels on station. Additionally, it is requested that all trawler operations within 2 nautical miles of the test area be avoided at all times, as U.S. Navy equipment has been deployed in the area and will remain in the area through the duration of the test event.
Test Area Corners:

29-56-25N 085-54-36W (29°56.4167N / 085°54.6000W, 29.940278 / -85.910000),

29-58-55N 085-54-36W (29°58.9166N / 085°54.6000W, 29.981944 / -85.910000),

29-58-55N 085-51-43W (29°58.9166N / 085°51.7166W, 29.981944 / -85.861944) and

29-56-25N 085-51-43W (29°56.4167N / 085°51.7166W, 29.940278 / -85.861944) .

Chart 11360 11389 11390 LNM 52/18

Update on St. Andrews and Panama City Marinas, FL GIWW Statute Mile 290