Even if you think this small sailing vessel is manned by one of Santa’s elves, keep your curiosity in check and steer clear. 

FLORIDA – INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY – ST LUCIE INLET TO FORT MYERS AND LAKE OKEECHOBEE: LAKE OKEECHOBEE: Autonomous Vehicle Operations

Beginning approximately January 1, 2021 and continuing until further notice (for at least 6 months), Navocean Inc in conjunction with Florida Atlantic University/Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute will be conducting harmful algal bloom monitoring across the waters of Lake Okeechobee using an autonomous solar and sail powered surface vehicle. Vehicle is 2m long, weighs 100 lbs, is painted orange, has a 1.5m mast with an orange sail marked “research, keep clear” and displays an all around white light at night. The vehicle navigates slowly (approximately 1-2.5 knots) and independently between GPS waypoints throughout the lake no closer than 0.5 NM from shore. Vehicles communicate frequently 24 hours/day with the Navocean Operations Team and can be redirected as needed. Recreational and commercial boaters are advised to use extra precaution when navigating the lake and are requested to not interfere with data collection operations. Questions or concerns can be addressed to support@navocean.com or by calling (207) 807-4388 Chart 11428  LNM 51/20