New Pass – Click for Chartview

New Pass is the northernmost of Sarasota’s two inlets, and this channel separates Longboat Key from Lido Key. It is spanned by a bascule bridge with a vertical clearance of 23ft.
In spite of all advice to the contrary, WE SPECIFICALLY DO NOT RECOMMEND THAT ANY MARINER MAKE USE OF NEW PASS! This channel shoals faster than it can be dredged, and I have personally photographed a large sailcraft (several years ago) that foundered when it tried to navigate New Pass. You would be far better served to make use of Longboat Pass to the north, or better yet, Venice Pass to the south, as recommended by Captain Blake.

On weekends hundreds of small craft use New Pass. 4 ft. or less draft is fine. Avoid bad weather and low tide (obvious). In good weather, ride the green water. If you’re lucky enough to get behind one of the local charter boats, or a big Sea Ray from Marine Max near the bridge out for a demo run, throttle up and run their wake. However, slow, deep draft vessels are much better served by using Venice. Especially if you make a lunch stop at The Crow’s Nest Marina and restaurant.
Captain Blake, Longboat Key

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of New Pass