On 12/4/08, as part of a “Florida Keys Wish List,” I posed the following question:

21. Has anyone anchored off Rodriguez Key (west, northwest of Hawk Channel’s marker #37)? Did you find enough shelter here for a comfortable overnight stay?

Responses follow:

Anchored there in 2004 prior to jumping off to the Bahamas (South Riding Rock). Stayed there a couple days waiting for 22 to 25 kt ESE winds to settle. They never did so we bit the bullet and went anyway. My memory has faded but to my recollection the north side anchorage was surprisingly calm, even to these winds, when staying over to the west side of the anchorage area. Anchored there on the return trip too, but there were only zephyrs then.
Bob Hanners

I’ve anchored on both sides of Rodriguez Key. It’s a very convenient jumping off place to cross to the Bahamas. Anchoring was good but you are very exposed if the wind clocks around on you. We also found it hard to find sandy patches to anchor legally. You can get fined if you anchor in sea grass. The good part, is that the water around the island is as clear as Bahamas water. Great for scouting the bottom.
Dick Mills
SV Tarwathie

Hi:
Anchored on N side of Rodriguez in a max 10 kt breeze from the the NW and was happy with it. Departing on December 5 AM into Hawk Channel, saw two boats anchored on the S side. (Beneteau 343/drawing 4’9″)
Appreciate your online info.
Tom
SV Move
Boot Key Harbor

Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Rodriguez Key Anchorage