Early February, 2013 seems to be the time to discuss cruising the fascinating St. Johns River. We have had LOTS of articles published recently concerning a cruise of this “not-to-be-missed” Eastern Florida cruising attractions. Below, Captains Glen and Jill give some good advice on what to see and where to explore while cruising the 140 (or so) nautical miles between Mayport and Lake Monroe.

Cruising News:
The St. Johns River is an interesting side trip that gives cruisers a glimpse of what Old Florida once was. There are so many interesting places to stop along the River that you can visit different towns and anchorages on your way up the river (south) and back down (north). Among the places we have enjoyed: Ortega Landing Marina, Doctor’s Lake, Black Creek, Green Cove Springs Town Dock, Six Mile Creek/Outback Crab Shack, Palatka Bass Tournament Docks, Corky Bells Restaurant/Dock, Seven Sisters, Welaka Town Dock, anchor in Lake George off
Silver Glen and/or Salt Springs, Morrison Island, Hontoon Island State Park, Oxbow past Blue Springs State Park, and Monroe Harbour Marina in Sanford. There are many kayaking opportunities all along the upper portions of the river. At our recent visit to Blue Springs State Park, there were over 90 manatees in the clear waters of the spring run. Required reading before or during the cruise: Cross Creek, Marjorie K. Rawlings, and River of Lakes: A Journey on Florida’s St. Johns River, Bill Belleville.
Glen and Jill Moore
DeFever 40 Last Dance
Currently Sanford, FL