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    • Nov 7, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Sanibel Marina (Sanibel Island)

      On 11/6/08, as part of a “Western Florida Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      18. Before entering the ICW, captains can choose to break off the southwest and visit Sanibel Island Marina. Anyone stayed here lately? What did you find? Did you eat at Grandma Dot’s restaurant? Is it still as good as ever?

      Responses follow:

      Subject: Sanibel Marina
      Message: Last year we stayed at Sanibel Marina on our 44′ MY. Despite making reservations several weeks in advance and confirming that AM they had no space available until late in the afternoon and we had to stand off for quire awhile until the finally decided to put us at the west end of the fuel dock. The Frequent coming and going of fueling boats made this an undesirable location. There is a boat broker on site and that may have filled all the normal transient slips, I don’t know.
      There is no public transport on Sanibel so we walked many miles eventually arriving at Randy Whites restaurant which was fine then to the Ding Darling area then taxied back. Things are spread all over the island so getting about isn’t easy. Bikes will help but not much. Gramma Dots is OK but very busy and the entire Sanibel marina experience was not worth it, we wont be back.
      Bruce

      Yes, great food – and the channel was dredged. You will bump on low tide if draw over 4 feet. The best water is starboard going into the marina and the dock master is terrific.
      Richard

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Sanibel Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Nov 7, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Dunedin Municipal Marina (Statute Mile 139)

      On 11/6/08, as part of a “Western Florida Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      52. Dunedin Marina guards the mainland shores, north of Clearwater. I’ve always liked this small, city operation. And, dining in downtown Dunedin, with Sea Sea Riders, and Kelly’s Bistro has always been outstanding. Can someone please give us a current report on this marina and its nearby dining opportunities.

      Responses follow:

      Subject: Duneden marina
      Message: Dunedin Marina is well located and shelterd however it seems always fully rented with no permanent transient slips. They may have an opening if someone is out but advanced reservations are not possible according to the dock master as of last year.
      Bruce

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dunedin Municipal Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Nov 7, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Longboat Key – Jewfish Key Anchorage (Statute Mile 85)

      On 11/6/08, as part of a “Western Florida Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      42. North of marker #39, the Waterway flows east of a long, thin island known as Jewfish Key. Two very popular anchorage can be found west of Jewfish Key. Safe entrance to this haven is different than it was a few years ago. Can someone please comment on how to best access these two anchorages? Who has dined at either of the two restaurants here? Was the food still good? Did you have any trouble with the local water cops?

      Responses follow:

      Subject: Longboat Key Anchorage
      Message: My copy of your book is in the hoist out back, so I don’t know if you warn of the risk of anchor dragging in high wind conditions – even for us seasoned boaters. If not, please do. The villian is the shape of the bottom – sort of like a bowl.
      Bill Cromer

      Subject: #42 re: Jewfish Key anchorage
      Message: This is one of our favorite anchorages. We were there for two nights October 14-15, 2008 and again for one night on 10/20. The wind was strong out
      of the east and we were concerned that holding would be a problem, but we did not have a problem at all. There is a place to come ashore with a dinghy at a
      public boat ramp next to the Mar-Vista Restaurant. Also, there is a trash receptable which is always a plus for cruisers. We had nice dinner at Mar-Vista. Moore’s Crab House appeared to be open but didn’t have an occasion to dine there on this trip. We were sad that the little grocery store nearby had closed. Local law enforcement was friendly and waved as they went by. A great anchorage! Steve and Regina Smith, M/V Island Time
      Steve and Regina Smith

      The best entrance to these anchorages is quite close to Jewfish Key. I did quite a bit of sounding (in the dinghy) and discovered that the best water is almost up to marker 40. I found the deep channel (16 to 18 feet) extends to within about 50 feet of the south side of the island. The southern half of the potential entrance space between marker 39 and marker 40 is shallow and should be avoided.
      Best regards,
      Gene and Sue Fuller
      Punta Gorda, Florida

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Jewfish Key South Side Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Jewfish Key Anchorage

      Be the first to comment!

    • Nov 7, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Cabbage Key Inn and Marina (Statute Mile 21.5)

      On 11/6/08, as part of a “Western Florida Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      22. Cabbage Key Inn and Marina’s entrance channel cuts west from the Waterway, near Statute Mile 21.5. I have heard that the reception for cruisers is friendlier here now than in times page. Can someone who has recently docked and/or ate at Cabbage Key Inn please comment on this facility?

      Responses follow:

      We found the dockmaster at Cabbage Key very helpful and friendly. He really helped with our lines both upon arrival and departure. He also helped a nearby boat with engine trouble. Lunch was good, not fancy, but good and the service was good.
      Doug Kendrick

      Cabbage Key is still a great place to stop for lunch or dinner.  Our grandson call it `The Cheeseburger in Paradise Place.’Â  The new Dockmaster is a big improvement and is actually nice.  It’s easy to anchor just off Useppa and dinghy into lunch.
      Jake Dye

      Dear Cruising Writer,
      I wanted to pass on some information about a recent stay at Cabbage Key.  I have stayed there a handful of times over the past few years and have had a delightful experience with each visit.  During the day, Cabbage Key can be a busy, bustling place and cruisers, and visitors alike, should be patient on their approach as the Dockmaster jockeys the many vessels to their docks.  This man single handedly docks legions of boaters daily many of who don’t speak English or have the first clue about operating their rental boats.  With this understanding and patience, you’ll find him to be quite likable and extremely helpful.
      Once you’re docked, stroll up the hill to the restaurant and have lunch.  I recommend the cheeseburger, potato salad and a Cabbage Creeper ‘“ a tasty drink that will soak the stress from your pores.  While on the island, be sure to explore the nature trail with its well marked flora and fauna as well as climb the water tower for its amazing views over the ICW.  From Cabbage Key you can cross the ICW to Useppa Island or scoot around the corner to Cayo Costa for one of the most amazing beaches in Southwest Florida.
      One of the best kept secrets about Cabbage Key is the dinners.  The restaurant transforms at night as the staff puts on a bit more formal attire, the white linens come out and the food is absolutely fantastic.Â
      As far as amenities, dockside electric is conveniently located near each slip, but there is no dock water available as it’s a limited resource on the island.  On our last trip our water pump failed so we needed to use the bathroom and shower facilities at the foot of the dock.  The bathrooms were always clean, modern and spacious ‘“ frankly I remember thinking I might use them on our next visit as opposed to the confining, and shared, bathroom onboard.Â
      Overall Cabbage Key is a great destination whether you’re staying overnight or just for a meal.  Its quaint charm harkens back to times past, a friendly old Florida that’s sometimes hard to find on the mainland.  I’ll be back.
      Sincerely,
      Matt
      Fort Myers

      Excellent reception and food, also the dock master was very friendly. The owner however was as nasty and grumpy as ever!
      Richard

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cabbage Key Inn and Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Nov 7, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Miserable Mile (Statue Mile 0 to 3)

      On 11/6/08, as part of a "Western Florida Wish List," I posed the following question:

      17. The official Western Florida Intracoastal Waterway begins in San Carlos Bay, and initially runs west on what is known as the “miserable mile.” Someone who has navigated the “miserable mile” lately, please give us a report. Did you have trouble with the sideways setting current trying to sweep your vessel out of the channel?

      Responses follow:

      We had no problem with sideways setting currents today going North at about 10:00 and returning Southbound at about 4:00. Obviously, from these times, we were traveling in a fast power boat.
      All of the markers were in place and we found no shoal spots.
      Doug Kendrick

      Subject: Miserable mile
      Message: There is a lot of boat traffic on weekends and holidays in the entire area and that is the big problem in the area of the miserable mile. The miserable mile itself is still miserable if the tide is flowing across the channel and you have a very slow boat. No problem at all if the tide is slack. In any case if you pay attention to the marks there is no real problem. The junction of the MM channel to main river inlet channel near MM100 can get exciting at high traffic times and as you proceed upriver the first miles are narrow with strong current, slow speed zones and may sightseeing boaters at heavy traffic times.
      Bruce

      This section does not have seem to have any new problems with shoaling. As usual, it is necessary to really pay attention to the track behind the boat. The drift changes every few hundred yards, and it is easy to over-correct.
      Best regards,
      Gene and Sue Fuller
      Punta Gorda, Florida

      Be the first to comment!

    • Sep 16, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Little Shark River (Southwestern Florida) Florida Cruising Advice Needed

      Below you will find a series of messages about the Little Shark River. This very interesting, but sometimes very buggy anchorage lies well south of Everglades City, and a short hop north of Cape Sable. It is one of the most backwater cruising possibilities in all of Florida. Just don't try anchoring here on a still, summer night. The little guys will come out, pick your boat up, and consume it in the nearby marsh!

      Will be cruising from Marathon up to Little Shark and hope to see some real Everglades wildlife and do some exploring.
      How far in from the river entrance does one have to go to get the Everglades experience.?
      Will be in our 43 ft Hatteras DC.
      Thanks for any info.

      You can go up five or six miles, we have a five foot draft boat. There is plenty water, but anchor in the middle to allow the tide.
      Danny and Kris Fletcher
      Nordhavn 46

      We've had our former Sanderling into the Little Shark River 8 miles. Definitely into the Everglades, but it wasn't what we expected it would be, however, it was fascinating, nonetheless!
      For the money, the best overall experience came at Flamingo, Florida, where we took a 2 hour tour on a pontoon boat into the same Everglades. Saw a different aspect of the Everglades than we saw on the Little Shark River – much more like what we had expected.
      Keep in mind, different land areas of the Everglades are at different elevations and therefore have totally different flora and fauna. Even a foot of elevation difference can change things quite dramatically.
      Bob McLeran and Judy Young

      Email Claiborne to respond to this posting

      Be the first to comment!

    • Aug 11, 2008by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      City of Fort Myers WELCOMES Live Aboards!!!!

      I LOVE it!!!!!

      Subject: Live-aboards welcome!
      Cruising News: Hello Cruisers!
      How about a refreshing change of pace? The City of Fort Myers welcomes live-aboards. The City has ownership of the Caloosahatchee river bottom, not the State, and as such welcomes live-aboards to the marina, the mooring field, and the anchorage. You can live year-round at the mooring field and in the marina, but would be limited to month to month at the anchorage based on rules compliance.
      The Fort Myers Yacht Basin has 258 slips from 20′ to 130′ with 6′ of water depth. Free wireless internet and sewage pump-out at your slip! Very reasonable rates, up-river storm protection, and a great downtown location. Give us a call at 239-321-7080 if you want to be a part of our live-aboard neighborhood!
      Leif Lustig

      I LOVE it!!!!!

      Subject: Live-aboards welcome!
      Cruising News: Hello Cruisers!
      How about a refreshing change of pace? The City of Fort Myers welcomes live-aboards. The City has ownership of the Caloosahatchee river bottom, not the State, and as such welcomes live-aboards to the marina, the mooring field, and the anchorage. You can live year-round at the mooring field and in the marina, but would be limited to month to month at the anchorage based on rules compliance.
      The Fort Myers Yacht Basin has 258 slips from 20′ to 130′ with 6′ of water depth. Free wireless internet and sewage pump-out at your slip! Very reasonable rates, up-river storm protection, and a great downtown location. Give us a call at 239-321-7080 if you want to be a part of our live-aboard neighborhood!
      Leif Lustig

      Be the first to comment!

    • 1 Comment

      1. Cape Sable Anchorage

      1. Cape Sable Anchorages
      Lat/Lon: near 25 09.569 North/081 08.623 West (North of Middle Cape) near 25 09.284 North/081 08.417 West (South of Middle Cape)
      Location: discovered on the waters northwest and south of Middle Cape Minimum Depth – 7 feet
      Minimum Depth: 6 to 8 feet
      Swing Room: unlimited
      Foul Weather Shelter:poor, fair weather and light airs anchorage ONLY

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Claiborne -  April 29, 2010 - 10:39 am

        Miles of Great Beaches and shelling!
        Pick you [fair weather] day as you are exposed, and you also in the Everglades National Park.
        Captain Sterling

        Reply to Claiborne
    • 11 Comments

      2. Little Shark River Outer Anchorage

      2. Little Shark River Outer Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 19.677 North/081 08.801 West
      Location: northwest of unlighted daybeacon #4 Minimum Depth 5 ½ feet
      Minimum Depth: 5 1/2 feet
      Swing Room: sufficient room for vessels as large as 48 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: excellent, great foul weather hidey hole

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (11)

      1. Mitch and Carole -  January 22, 2014 - 9:41 pm

        Going south from Marco I. we have stopped at the Little Shark River. One time we found it to be buggy on warm, windless night. Every other time (about five) we have found it to be a pleasant, quiet stop. VERY remote with plenty of place to anchor.
        Mitch & Carole On Serendipity

        Reply to Mitch
      2. Glenda Libby -  November 19, 2013 - 11:57 am

        Recently enjoyed a wonderful 2-week cruise from Cape Coral, FL to Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL late Oct/early Nov. 2013. Anchored in Little Shark River off Red “4” and it was an incredible experience! Unbelievable fishing, dolphin feeding frenzy, and manatees everywhere enjoying the tidal feast! Offered the most incredible sunsets, brilliant star gazing and sunrises I have ever experienced. Winds were N so I can only guess they blew the mosquitoes away as we were prepared for them and only a few show up on our screens. Tidal swing is strong but a solid holding. Happiest thought I have had in a long time and I look forward to visiting and exploring the area when we have more time. Excellent anchorage if you can bear to be without electronic communication devices! Happy thought for me!
        Glenda Libby

        Reply to Glenda
      3. Nils Pearson -  November 3, 2013 - 4:38 pm

        In the past, we had to hug the shore away from Fl G”1″ at the entrance to the Little Shark River, as the shoaling came out into the channel there. Not sure what the current conditions would be.
        Our first visit to Little Shark was during a 50K/12′ seas blow. The conditions inside were “severe calm”. A Great Anchorage!
        Nils Pearson “Fairwinds”

        Reply to Nils
      4. Dave Fuller -  November 1, 2013 - 4:25 pm

        We were there on August 10, 2013 with one other boat for one night and had nearly zero bugs. I suppose it was because we had a 15 to 20 knot wind just about the entire time. We had a few of the big horsefly type flies, but nothing else. I suppose we were just lucky, but we were prepared none the less. I was actually able to cook a pork loin on the grill outside without any issues. This is REMOTE and a really fine anchorage – well protected in just about any direction as long as you choose your spot wisely. A west or southwest wind might be a problem, but when we were there the wind was out of the east. It even has a marker to help you find it, but I would recommend GPS as the coast looks pretty much the same all around. Don’t confuse the larger Shark River just north of here – it does not have much protection. We had a few fishermen come by in small boats before dark, but after dark, it was dead quiet and VERY dark with zero ambient light. It is strategically located just about the halfway point between Marco and the Keys. I highly recommend this anchorage.
        Dave Fuller

        Reply to Dave
      5. Ed Robinson -  October 23, 2013 - 1:07 pm

        “A little buggy” is quite the understatement. This is a fantastic anchorage . . . in January, February. Otherwise it’s mosquito hell.
        Ed Robinson

        Reply to Ed
      6. Jim Luby -  October 23, 2013 - 1:05 pm

        Anchored here Oct 2013 and it was fascinatingly beautiful. Though the water is black and nothing much visible below the surface, there were many creatures jumping. One very large creature would surface making a large splash but we could never see what it was – thinking it would be manatees surfacing. We were alone this night and it was incredibly peaceful and the sky was incredible with billions of stars and no ambient light. Bugs were fierce after dark and cutters held most at bay but a few got through. Hatch screens a must here if you want to sleep. Recommend this as interim between Marathon and Marco areas. Depths going in and out were fine. A little challenging to locate by eyesight so the GPS was required to find it. Have fun.
        Jim Luby

        Reply to Jim
      7. Swing Set -  February 3, 2013 - 11:53 am

        We couldn’t get out of the Little Shark River fast enough. We got a good hook, but the currents are swift and the tidal range is extreme. A catamaran that came in behind us had a lot of trouble getting an anchor to set due to a hard bottom. We set one anchor and used an anchor alarm, but probably should have set two because of the tidal current changes. The water is just plain nasty and make sure you have plenty of bug spray when the sun starts to set. Next time we’ll pass this one up unless weather dictates otherwise.
        Swing Set

        Reply to Swing
      8. Capt. RL& Karen -  December 16, 2009 - 11:08 am

        Anchored in the Little Shark River on Sunday Dec. 13, 2009. Very buggy but we have a screen enclosed cockpit, stayed in the cockpit all night to view the Geminid Meteor Showers…spectacular show. Several dolphins circled our boat all night. No problem entering the river but when we left the next morning it was a very low tide and at one point we did tap the bottom but didn’t have any problems getting out. Our boat draws 5 1/2 ‘. A great place to view the wildlife and stars, also no cell phone reception which can be good and bad. A welcome change from the Keys.
        Capt. RL & Karen
        s/v Last Call
        45’ Island Trader, Ketch

        Reply to Capt.
      9. Duane Ising -  August 27, 2009 - 2:47 pm

        I have not been to Little Shark River in 2 years, but I would say that going there is like a trip back to pre history. If you can get inside there is plenty of water and you can anchor on the sides of the channel. Bring bug repellant that can stop a horse, and screens that can stop the no seeums.
        Richard A Bruning

        I do not recall the exact lowest depths, but we draw 4.5 ft and were never close to being concerned in moderate conditions. I would not wish to run in/out on a low tide and running seas.
        Regards,
        Duane Ising
        s/v Diva Di
        36 Catalina

        Reply to Duane
      10. Norm Naughton -  August 27, 2009 - 11:35 am

        Spent three days anchored in Little Shark River in Everglades National Park with Bob and Stephanie aboard September Song and Rick and Lynnie aboard Rickshaw. Very remote area – it’s just us, the birds, the mangroves, and the river running about 4 knots. (No kayaking in that current.) Spectacular stars. We anchored upriver a bit away from where other boats typically anchor. It was remote enough to give us a tiny feel of unease. We saw the occasional fishing boat and a herd of teenage Outward Bound canoeists who were on the 14th day of a 20 day journey. Yikes! Bob and Stephanie led us on a dingy expedition. We explored some of the inner-reaches of the rivers and streams in this Everglades paradise. Did not see any alligators, but did see tons of birds.
        Norm decided to try his luck fishing. He caught several small catfish with the squid from the freezer. (It’s there for bait – we don’t actually dine on squid.) He was trying to hook mangrove snapper, or river trout, or the little black shark that sister Joyce and Steve used to catch here. Released the catfish. Decided to try a different bait. Tried meatballs and pepperoni, but either the fish are vegetarian or they don’t like Italian food.
        Norm Naughton
        Aboard M/V Tide Hiker

        Reply to Norm
      11. Gerry -  August 27, 2009 - 9:02 am

        Keep a close watch on your dog between Little Shark river and Flamingo if you stop….Gators!
        Gerry

        We always do keep a close watch on her. especially in areas like that. quicktrip to the beach by dinghy and a leash walk on the beach to do her
        business. never runs free
        Jay

        Reply to Gerry
    • 7 Comments

      3. Little Shark River Southern Fork Anchorage

      3. Little Shark River Southern Fork Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 19.736 North/081 07.132 West
      Location: lies southeast of unlighted daybeacon #69
      Minimum Depth: 5 foot approach depths, but 9 foot depths in the anchorage
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 40 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: Excellent, only very strong northwesterly winds should be a problem here

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (7)

      1. Glenda Libby -  November 19, 2013 - 11:59 am

        Recently enjoyed a wonderful 2-week cruise from Cape Coral, FL to Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL late Oct/early Nov. 2013. Anchored in Little Shark River off Red “4” and it was an incredible experience! Unbelievable fishing, dolphin feeding frenzy, and manatees everywhere enjoying the tidal feast! Offered the most incredible sunsets, brilliant star gazing and sunrises I have ever experienced. Winds were N so I can only guess they blew the mosquitoes away as we were prepared for them and only a few show up on our screens. Tidal swing is strong but a solid holding. Happiest thought I have had in a long time and I look forward to visiting and exploring the area when we have more time. Excellent anchorage if you can bear to be without electronic communication devices! Happy thought for me!
        Glenda Libby

        Reply to Glenda
      2. Swing Set -  February 3, 2013 - 11:53 am

        We couldn’t get out of the Little Shark River fast enough. We got a good hook, but the currents are swift and the tidal range is extreme. A catamaran that came in behind us had a lot of trouble getting an anchor to set due to a hard bottom. We set one anchor and used an anchor alarm, but probably should have set two because of the tidal current changes. The water is just plain nasty and make sure you have plenty of bug spray when the sun starts to set. Next time we’ll pass this one up unless weather dictates otherwise.
        Swing Set

        Reply to Swing
      3. Ken & Pat Goewey -  December 18, 2012 - 2:34 pm

        I wish we would have spent more time exploring the Everglades. We did anchor in Little Shark River, and enjoyed exploring in the dinghy.
        We went up the mouth of the river, turned right at the T, and anchored below the first Island. Very nice spot!
        Ken & Pat Goewey

        Reply to Ken
      4. Bill -  December 22, 2009 - 4:53 pm

        When we anchored in Little Shark River, near the southeast shore between G”3″ and R”4″, the anchor was in ~7 feet of water at high tide. Strong SE wind predicted, so we put out plenty of scope. The next morning, when we got ready to leave, the anchor was in ~3 feet of water (low tide) and we draw ~4. Fortunately, that scope and the wind had us in deeper water. The tide didn’t get high enough for us to retrieve the anchor until after mid-day. We decided to re-anchor and enjoy the area for another day. I was used to 1-2 foot tides in the Gulf and didn’t pay attention.
        The point is, don’t rely on charted depths and do check the tide predictions. There is plenty of water in Little Shark River, but not near the southeast bank at low tide.
        Great anchorage!
        Bill

        Reply to Bill
      5. Richard A Bruning -  August 27, 2009 - 2:47 pm

        I have not been to Little Shark River in 2 years, but I would say that going there is like a trip back to pre history. If you can get inside there is plenty of water and you can anchor on the sides of the channel. Bring bug repellant that can stop a horse, and screens that can stop the no seeums.
        Richard A Bruning

        I do not recall the exact lowest depths, but we draw 4.5 ft and were never close to being concerned in moderate conditions. I would not wish to run in/out on a low tide and running seas.
        Regards,
        Duane Ising
        s/v Diva Di
        36 Catalina

        Reply to Richard
      6. Norm Naughton -  August 27, 2009 - 11:35 am

        Spent three days anchored in Little Shark River in Everglades National Park with Bob and Stephanie aboard September Song and Rick and Lynnie aboard Rickshaw. Very remote area – it’s just us, the birds, the mangroves, and the river running about 4 knots. (No kayaking in that current.) Spectacular stars. We anchored upriver a bit away from where other boats typically anchor. It was remote enough to give us a tiny feel of unease. We saw the occasional fishing boat and a herd of teenage Outward Bound canoeists who were on the 14th day of a 20 day journey. Yikes! Bob and Stephanie led us on a dingy expedition. We explored some of the inner-reaches of the rivers and streams in this Everglades paradise. Did not see any alligators, but did see tons of birds.
        Norm decided to try his luck fishing. He caught several small catfish with the squid from the freezer. (It’s there for bait – we don’t actually dine on squid.) He was trying to hook mangrove snapper, or river trout, or the little black shark that sister Joyce and Steve used to catch here. Released the catfish. Decided to try a different bait. Tried meatballs and pepperoni, but either the fish are vegetarian or they don’t like Italian food.
        Norm Naughton
        Aboard M/V Tide Hiker

        Reply to Norm
      7. Gerry -  August 27, 2009 - 9:02 am

        Keep a close watch on your dog between Little Shark river and Flamingo if you stop….Gators!
        Gerry

        We always do keep a close watch on her. especially in areas like that. quicktrip to the beach by dinghy and a leash walk on the beach to do her
        business. never runs free
        Jay

        Reply to Gerry
    • 6 Comments

      4. Little Shark River Upper Anchorage

      4. Little Shark River Upper Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 20.268 North/081 06.983 West
      Location: will be found to the west-northwest, west of unlighted daybeacon #68
      Minimum Depth: 5 foot approach depths, but 6-foot depths in anchorage
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 45 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: Very good, except during strong northwestern winds

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (6)

      1. Marty and Jerry Richardson -  January 22, 2014 - 9:44 pm

        A good stop for the night when traveling out of Marco is Little Shark River. This breaks the trip up into two nice segments. When anchoring in Little Shark, go up the river 1/2 mile or so past the entrance. You will find good depths and good holding. Plan on a fast tidal current in both directions, inbound and outbound. This current will set you securely on your anchor for the night. Even with the cool temps currently being experienced, have screens ready for the bugs.
        Marty and Jerry Richardson onboard M/V Monarch

        Reply to Marty
      2. Glenda Libby -  November 19, 2013 - 12:00 pm

        Recently enjoyed a wonderful 2-week cruise from Cape Coral, FL to Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL late Oct/early Nov. 2013. Anchored in Little Shark River off Red “4” and it was an incredible experience! Unbelievable fishing, dolphin feeding frenzy, and manatees everywhere enjoying the tidal feast! Offered the most incredible sunsets, brilliant star gazing and sunrises I have ever experienced. Winds were N so I can only guess they blew the mosquitoes away as we were prepared for them and only a few show up on our screens. Tidal swing is strong but a solid holding. Happiest thought I have had in a long time and I look forward to visiting and exploring the area when we have more time. Excellent anchorage if you can bear to be without electronic communication devices! Happy thought for me!
        Glenda Libby

        Reply to Glenda
      3. Swing Set -  February 3, 2013 - 11:53 am

        We couldn’t get out of the Little Shark River fast enough. We got a good hook, but the currents are swift and the tidal range is extreme. A catamaran that came in behind us had a lot of trouble getting an anchor to set due to a hard bottom. We set one anchor and used an anchor alarm, but probably should have set two because of the tidal current changes. The water is just plain nasty and make sure you have plenty of bug spray when the sun starts to set. Next time we’ll pass this one up unless weather dictates otherwise.
        Swing Set

        Reply to Swing
      4. Richard A Bruning -  August 27, 2009 - 2:47 pm

        I have not been to Little Shark River in 2 years, but I would say that going there is like a trip back to pre history. If you can get inside there is plenty of water and you can anchor on the sides of the channel. Bring bug repellant that can stop a horse, and screens that can stop the no seeums.
        Richard A Bruning

        I do not recall the exact lowest depths, but we draw 4.5 ft and were never close to being concerned in moderate conditions. I would not wish to run in/out on a low tide and running seas.
        Regards,
        Duane Ising
        s/v Diva Di
        36 Catalina

        Reply to Richard
      5. Norm Naughton -  August 27, 2009 - 11:36 am

        Spent three days anchored in Little Shark River in Everglades National Park with Bob and Stephanie aboard September Song and Rick and Lynnie aboard Rickshaw. Very remote area – it’s just us, the birds, the mangroves, and the river running about 4 knots. (No kayaking in that current.) Spectacular stars. We anchored upriver a bit away from where other boats typically anchor. It was remote enough to give us a tiny feel of unease. We saw the occasional fishing boat and a herd of teenage Outward Bound canoeists who were on the 14th day of a 20 day journey. Yikes! Bob and Stephanie led us on a dingy expedition. We explored some of the inner-reaches of the rivers and streams in this Everglades paradise. Did not see any alligators, but did see tons of birds.
        Norm decided to try his luck fishing. He caught several small catfish with the squid from the freezer. (It’s there for bait – we don’t actually dine on squid.) He was trying to hook mangrove snapper, or river trout, or the little black shark that sister Joyce and Steve used to catch here. Released the catfish. Decided to try a different bait. Tried meatballs and pepperoni, but either the fish are vegetarian or they don’t like Italian food.
        Norm Naughton
        Aboard M/V Tide Hiker

        Reply to Norm
      6. Gerry -  August 27, 2009 - 9:03 am

        Keep a close watch on your dog between Little Shark river and Flamingo if you stop….Gators!
        Gerry

        We always do keep a close watch on her. especially in areas like that. quicktrip to the beach by dinghy and a leash walk on the beach to do her
        business. never runs free
        Jay

        Reply to Gerry
    • 1 Comment

      5. New Turkey Key Anchorage

      5. New Turkey Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 38.984 North/081 16.759 West
      Location: discovered on the wide band of charted 6- and 8-foot waters off the eastern and northeastern sides of New Turkey Key
      Minimum Depth: 4-foot approach depths, but 6-foot depths in the anchorage
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 36 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: fair to good, but open to northern southern winds

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Claiborne -  January 13, 2011 - 12:01 pm

        Good Anchorage but mind how far you swing if you don’t go all the way in. We anchored here on a calm night a swung a little to close to shore and found ourselves aground at low tide (we draw 3′9″). It wasn’t a big deal, we took the dogs for a run in the mud flats on the other side of New Turkey and floated right off an hour later but anyone with a draft of more than 4 might want to skip this anchorage.
        Nicole

        Reply to Claiborne
    • No Comments

      6. Lumber Key Anchorage

      6. Lumber Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 45.627 North/081 22.835 West
      Location: lies off the western banks of Lumber Key
      Minimum Depth: 4-6 feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for boats as large as 48 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: fair, but open to western, northwestern and southwestern winds

      Rating:

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      7. Jack Daniels Key Anchorage

      7. Jack Daniels Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 47.882 North/081 25.931 West
      Location: found on the waters southeast of Jack Daniels Key
      Minimum Depth: 5-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 40 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: good, but somewhat open to southern and southeastern winds

      Rating:

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    • No Comments

      8. Kingston Key Anchorage

      8. Kingston Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 48.005 North/081 27.011 West
      Location: lies off the eastern shores of Kingston Key
      Minimum Depth: 6-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 50 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: Good, but open to southwestern winds

      Rating:

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    • 1 Comment

      9. Indian Key Anchorage

      9. Indian Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 48.673 North/081 27.728 West
      Location: will be discovered southeast of the sandspit, off Indian Key’s northeasterly tip
      Minimum Depth: 6-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 55 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: very good, but a bit open to strong southern winds

      Rating:

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      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Claiborne -  August 27, 2009 - 2:43 pm

        We anchored there in mid-Jun 2008 and found shallow depths close to the Key but adequate depths (6 ft) not too far offshore. Contrary to your guide, however, we did not find anything interesting here at all. We saw/heard commercial traffic very early but had anchored out of their path and they were not an issue.
        Regards,
        Duane Ising
        s/v Diva Di
        36 Catalina

        Reply to Claiborne
    • 2 Comments

      10. Russell Pass Southern Anchorage

      10. Russell Pass Southern Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 49.917 North/081 26.516 West
      Location: found on the waters of charted Russell Pass which opens into the northern flank of the Indian Key-Everglades City channel, southwest of flashing daybeacon #7
      Minimum Depth: 7-feet
      Swing Room: almost unlimited
      Foul Weather Shelter: very good, but somewhat open to strong southern winds

      Rating:

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      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Ed Kydd -  January 2, 2013 - 3:50 pm

        In February 1980, while my wife, Helen and I were cruising in our 26 foot Pearson sailboat, we were anchored in Russell Bay when the anchorage became very choppy and we moved to Russell Pass.During the night we dragged anchor and at 0300 were wakened by mangroves running both sides of the boat. I rowed the dinghy till I found the pass again, went back and motored out to re-anchor with two anchors.
        The current in these passes can be pretty strong.
        What a beautiful cruising area.

        Reply to Ed
      2. Claiborne -  August 27, 2009 - 11:31 am

        Next stop for three days was Russell Pass outside Everglades City. A wonderful anchorage.
        We dinghied four miles into Everglades City . They really shouldn’t’t call it a ‘city’. Got bait there (frozen shrimp – hope the catfish don’t like it), but couldn’t get a Sunday paper. The reason for the trip to Everglades City was to lunch at the Rod and Gun Club – a very “old Florida” experience. It opened in the late 1800s and was one of the first winter destinations for the well-heeled from up north.
        As the name implies, they came to hunt and fish, and enjoy the sunshine. The walls of the place are crowded with the heads, bodies, and skins of their trophies as well as newspaper articles about the place through the years.
        It’s been quite the draw with presidents Truman, Roosevelt, and Cleveland visiting there as well as Sally Field and Mick Jagger (now there’s an unlikely collection). We dined on the large veranda and had OK food and delicious Mango Iced Tea. I’d put this on the ‘must see’ list for cruisers. Our chief photographer, Rick, sent us a lot of these photos he took of our dingy ride and lunch at Everglades City.
        Now, Everglades City is not just known for the Ron and Gun Club. It is air boat ride capital of the Everglades. So, for $37 per person, one can ride on one of those propeller-driven, water top skimming, turn-on-a-dime, flat-bottomed boats. Really, they told us that they only did the mangroves; and, WE DID MANGROVES!! So, what fun would that be? We decided on a nice lunch amongst the dead carcases instead.
        Norm Naughton
        Aboard M/V Tide Hiker

        Reply to Claiborne
    • 2 Comments

      11. Russell Pass Middle Anchorage

      11. Russell Pass Middle Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 50.303 North/081 26.317 West
      Location: found on the waters of Russell Pass just short of the large, shallow cove cutting into the southeasterly banks
      Minimum Depth: 7-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 50 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: excellent, great foul weather hidey hole

      Rating:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Claiborne -  March 22, 2010 - 1:55 pm

        3-19-2010. This is the second time we have anchored just a tad south of the anchorage shown on the chart above [follow link below to check out the chartlet Captain Jean is referring to]. It is well protected with good depths. We aren’t going anywhere in the dinghy, just kicking back and catching up on email etc.
        Jean Thomason (DOVEKIE)

        Reply to Claiborne
      2. Claiborne -  August 27, 2009 - 11:31 am

        Next stop for three days was Russell Pass outside Everglades City. A wonderful anchorage.
        We dinghied four miles into Everglades City . They really shouldn’t’t call it a ‘city’. Got bait there (frozen shrimp – hope the catfish don’t like it), but couldn’t get a Sunday paper. The reason for the trip to Everglades City was to lunch at the Rod and Gun Club – a very “old Florida” experience. It opened in the late 1800s and was one of the first winter destinations for the well-heeled from up north.
        As the name implies, they came to hunt and fish, and enjoy the sunshine. The walls of the place are crowded with the heads, bodies, and skins of their trophies as well as newspaper articles about the place through the years.
        It’s been quite the draw with presidents Truman, Roosevelt, and Cleveland visiting there as well as Sally Field and Mick Jagger (now there’s an unlikely collection). We dined on the large veranda and had OK food and delicious Mango Iced Tea. I’d put this on the ‘must see’ list for cruisers. Our chief photographer, Rick, sent us a lot of these photos he took of our dingy ride and lunch at Everglades City.
        Now, Everglades City is not just known for the Ron and Gun Club. It is air boat ride capital of the Everglades. So, for $37 per person, one can ride on one of those propeller-driven, water top skimming, turn-on-a-dime, flat-bottomed boats. Really, they told us that they only did the mangroves; and, WE DID MANGROVES!! So, what fun would that be? We decided on a nice lunch amongst the dead carcases instead.
        Norm Naughton
        Aboard M/V Tide Hiker

        Reply to Claiborne

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