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    • 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:

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

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    • No Comments

      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:

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

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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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      Centered on the Location of This Anchorage:

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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:

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

      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:

      Click on Chartlet Below to Open a Chart View Window,
      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
    • 2 Comments

      12. Russell Pass Northern Anchorage

      12. Russell Pass Northern Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 50.542 North/081 26.019 West
      Location: lies 200 yards southwest of the charted split in the stream
      Minimum Depth: 6-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 45 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: excellent, about as good as it gets

      Rating:

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

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. RJ SCHWANDNER -  April 22, 2015 - 2:24 pm

        I have used this anchorage a few times in wind from the north @ 35 mph as stated ( as good as it gets ). 37 foot sailing vessel 5ft draft. S/V TIME

        Reply to RJ
      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

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      13. Picnic Key Anchorage

      13. Picnic Key Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 49.278 North/081 29.116 West
      Location: found southwest of Picnic Key
      Minimum Depth: 4 – 5-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 50 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: fair, open to southern and southwestern winds

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      14. Caxambas Pass Anchorage

      14. Caxambas Pass Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 54.129 North/081 39.953 West
      Location: will be discovered on the waters west of unlighted daybeacon #1 (west of Ramsey Key)
      Minimum Depth: 5-foot approach depths, 6-foot depths in anchorage
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 45 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: good, but a bit open to strong eastern winds

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      15. Coon Key Pass Anchorage

      15. Coon Key Pass Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 54.115 North/081 38.433 West
      Location: lies off the easterly banks of the small, unnamed island east of Neal Key and west-northwest of unlighted daybeacon #2
      Minimum Depth: 10-feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 55 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: fair, open to southern and southwestern winds

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      16. Tripod Key – Sugar Bay Anchorage

      16. Tripod Key – Sugar Bay Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 54.633 North/081 38.072 West
      Location: found on the charted 5-foot offshoot leading to Sugar Bay, east of unlighted daybeacon #3
      Minimum Depth: 5-fee
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 45 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: excellent

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      17. Goodland Bay Anchorage

      17. Goodland Bay Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 55.655 North/081 38.513 West
      Location: will be discovered on the charted patch of deeper waters northeast of unlighted daybeacon #7
      Minimum Depth: 5-6 feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 45 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: very good

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      18. Factory Bay Anchorage

      18. Factory Bay Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: near 25 57.773 North/081 43.447 West
      Location: lies southwest of unlighted daybeacon #6
      Minimum Depth: 5 ½ feet
      Swing Room: sufficient swinging room for vessels as large as 48 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: good, but a bit open to strong northern winds

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      Comments from Cruisers (3)

      1. ron -  May 26, 2010 - 2:18 pm

        We’ve spent weeks at Factory Bay waiting for weather. It is well protected and you have access to everything you need. The bottom is all mud and if you have a Danforth, it won’t hold in a blow. We dragged twice with two hooks set-Danforth and Fortress, in a blow and had to change to our heavier plow to dig and sink in the mud for a good hold. Also, if you stay a bit longer than anticipated, your anchor rode will be studded with tiny seashells and a muddy mess when you pull the hook.

        Reply to ron
      2. Capt. RL& Karen -  December 16, 2009 - 11:17 am

        We anchored between R14 & G15 along with 2 other boats on Monday 12/14/09, just across from the Snook Restaurant. Lots of water and had entertainment for the evening. Just follow the markers into Capri Pass…lots of water here. Will definitely come back.
        Capt. RL & Karen
        s/v Last Call
        45′ Island Trader, ketch

        Reply to Capt.
      3. Claiborne -  August 28, 2009 - 8:42 am

        I’ve been into Factory Bay twice this year and each time the police pass, wave and keep going. There have always been other boats anchored there, as well.
        Jake Dye

        Reply to Claiborne
    • 10 Comments 25.9629,-81.72419999

      18A. Smokehouse Bay – Marco Island Anchorage


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      Smokehouse Bay – Marco Island Anchorage
      Lat/Lon: 25 57.416 North/081 43.818 West
      Location: entrance channel cuts south from the Marco Island – Capri Pass channel between markers #12 and #14
      Minimum Depth: 4 1/2 feet
      Swing Room: sufficient room for vessels as large as 48 feet
      Foul Weather Shelter: Very Good

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      Comments from Cruisers (10)

      1. Jim Merritt -  May 18, 2015 - 12:32 pm

        Anchored twice in Smokehouse Bay in May of this year (2015) and found the bay and the holding excellent. The Winn Dixie dock around the corner under the bridge was very convenient. The only note I would add that isn’t in the previous postings is that the navigation markers from the pass through Collier bay on the chart plotter do not match what is actually there. The marked channel runs out at “12” with three possible directions. Take the residential channel directly ahead and after going around a bend you will see smokehouse bay and “13”.

        SV Latitude Adjustment

        Reply to Jim
      2. Lee Oldershaw -  May 1, 2014 - 1:20 pm

        Smokehouse Bay has a fairly narrow 3′ mlw bar running north south in the center of the north half of the bay. Depths outside this bar around the edges of the bay are typically 12′ in soft, smelly mud. There’s plenty of room to anchor away from the bar in the eastern half of the bay away from the entry channel that heads south to the marina. The shallowest spot is in entrance route in the eastern corner of Collier Bay at 25 57.955N, 81 43.900W. Keep away from the marker R2 and hug the seawalls as you make the turn to starboard but watch for outbound vessels that don’t know why you’re doing that. A 6′ draft can be carried to the bay.
        The bar in Smokehouse Bay can be faintly seen in the aerial view of the Collier County Property Appraisers GIS web site at http://www.collierappraiser.com/webmap/Map.aspx?ccpaver=1.9.2&msize=L when you zoom in. The cloudy water on the west side of the bay is not shallow.
        Lee Oldershaw

        Reply to Lee
      3. Ken & Alta -  March 14, 2014 - 3:33 am

        Dear Cruisers, I’ve been reading your posts re: Smokehouse Bay in Marco Is.. Unfortunately, nobody has mentioned (or I haven’t noticed) the boat types involved. Our vessel is a 43′ Beneteau with a 5’7″ draft; would any of you be able to confirm to me the suitability of Smokehouse for our vessel? We appreciate your time and wish all fair winds. Ken & Alta (SV Alta Gracia)

        Reply to Ken
      4. Lee Oldershaw -  August 5, 2013 - 9:06 am

        After being advised by the Marco Is. city attorney, that the Esplanade Marina was in violation of PUD agreements by restricting public docking at the Marina in Smokehouse Bay, The management entity of the Esplanade complex has advised the marina staff to cease enforcing the restriction that public dock users can only use the dock while patronizing Esplanade businesses. The signs should be removed shortly and the city of Marco should be accessible from the Esplanade dock. The “Dumas Gang” of the successful Marco anchoring challenge participated in this effort by researching documents and bringing them to the city’s notice. The City of Marco Island was on the boaters side this time.
        Lee Oldershaw

        August 7, 2013
        With the dawn of a new day, the Esplanade Marina Association has not yet complied with the request by Commercial Realty Corporation ( CRC ), the commercial owner of the 8 public slips to remove the restrictive docking signage. I don’t know how much longer this will be in limbo. There is some indication they may be intransigent about the issue. The City of Marco Island and CRC seem to be in agreement that the current docking restrictions do not conform to the Land Use Summary of the 1998 Development Agreement. We’ll keep you informed.
        Lee Oldershaw

        Reply to Lee
      5. Lee Oldershaw -  May 20, 2013 - 1:21 pm

        This is one of the best small town harbors in Florida. When entering Smokehouse Bay from the north, keep on the west side of the bay. There is a narrow, north-south 3′ MLW mud shoal in the center of the north half of the bay. The shoal can be circumnavigated on the edges of the bay. Depths are mostly 9-12′ in slimy mud; be prepared to hose down when retrieving your ground tackle. Allow your anchor to set a while before setting as the mud is soft and deep. There is a dinghy dock at the south end and you are within walking distance of anything you desire; West Marine, hardware store, Winn-Dixie ( dinghy dock ), rental car, many restaurants, propane, etc. On island taxi’s are about $7. We’ve lived here 34 years and if we didn’t live here, this would be our premier cruising destination now that anchoring is unrestricted.
        Lee Oldershaw

        Reply to Lee
      6. Marty & Jerry Richardson -  November 15, 2011 - 10:50 am

        Whole heartily endorse the anchorage in Smokehouse Bay on Marco (this is where the Esplanada is. Dinghy under the bridge and Winn-Dixie has a dingy dock you can use. There is also a great Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays – we always plan to hit there on our way through.
        Marty & Jerry Richardson

        Reply to Marty
      7. Herman -  February 24, 2011 - 3:30 pm

        I read your listing of Smokehouse Bay. And I was happy to see it. This is the best anchorage on the west coast of Florida. The chart you have bears no resemblance to reality. I don’t know if there is a more recent one, I am going to have to look around, if you are interested. There are all new markers which were put in when the marina was built. The channel is very well marked. Coming in from the Marco River it typically 8+ feet. The only shallow spot is by the first turn to starboard which is 5+ or so feet at dead low tide. The water is the deepest hugging the pilings and seawall. After that spot there is 8+ feet by following the markers into Smokehouse Bay. Smokehouse Bay is deep 10+ feet. There is only one shallow spot which is behind the first green marker on the way into the bay. Even with that there is deep water between the marker and the seawall. The problem is just that relatively small spot of about 4+ feet. The bottom is mud, so make sure your anchor is caught.
        Herman

        I e-mailed Captain Herman back, and asked if the “small spot of 4+ foot water” was part of the entrance channel, and, if so, where it would be encountered. As you will see, this one shallow spot is NOT part of the entry cut, and is easily avoided!

        The area in question is not in a channel but rather a small area in the west end of the anchorage and can be easily avoided.
        Herman

        Reply to Herman
      8. Nicole -  January 11, 2011 - 11:41 am

        GREAT GREAT ANCHORAGE.
        Chris, the dockmaster at Esplanade, is fantastic. Give him the courtesy of checking in with him (we walked over from the dinghy dock at Winn Dixie) and he will treat you like gold. Fantastic guy.
        It was mentioned to us that other cruising boats have “snuck” onto the dock early in the morning to take on water and leave their trash. The marina considers this trespassing, just a word to the wise. (besides if you ask the dockmaster he will probably let you do both of these things, just ask!)
        One warning: We were warned by a helpful person on the dock that if you anchor here for more than 4 consecutive nights the shoreside neighbors will call the Coast Guard and tell them you have been there for a long time and must be pumping out in the water. Apparently the CG will then send one of their small boats to visit you and I assume, do a safety and head check. Not a big deal (kind of a waste of the CGs time I think) but good to know in the event in happens to you.
        Esplanade will pump you out for free if you give them a call on VHF 16.
        Nicole

        Reply to Nicole
      9. Jerry Richardson -  December 15, 2010 - 11:57 am

        Have to agree with the postings on Smokehouse Bay. We use this as our primary anchoring spot when at Marco Island. Restaurants at the Esplanade are great, along with being easy walking distances to supermarkets, West Marine and a load of restaurants. One nice thing is that you can dinghy under the bridge and then bear to the left and use the dinghy dock located at the Winn-Dixie to do your shopping. Easier than shopping by car !!!!
        Jerry Richardson

        Reply to Jerry
      10. S/V Two If By Sea -  December 15, 2010 - 11:57 am

        We visited Smokehouse Bay in April. When entering after the Pass, you do need to hug the condo side of the channel and then follow the markers. Plenty of water and good holding. The marina is boater/dinghy friendly, which is a nice change from Marco River Marina and Factory Bay. I would recommend you do a courtesy checking with the dockmaster at Esplanade. They prefer the dinghies to be docked at certain spots. Smokehouse Bay is only about 10 minutes further in than Factory Bay and is well worth it.
        S/V Two If By Sea

        Reply to S/V

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