Florida west coast

[doug.dsi]

Just purchased a GB 46 classic and need to bring it from Mobile, AL to Stuart, FL.
Wife and I plan on taking it slow, for the first 8 days until we get to Carrabelle. Then she will have to go back to work and I will continue.
Having never cruised the west coast, I am looking for suggestions. Running straight through to Tampa is a possibility, but I am not looking forward to a 23 hour run on an older vessel I have only spent a few days on.
.

 

[HeadedToTexas]

The last couple years have been tough on that area and services may be unavailable. Careful research will be important.

 

[DavidM]

Due to the hurricane damage along Florida’s west coast, I wouldn’t make this a sightseeing, casual trip. So go for a 10 hour run the first day, maybe to Destin to shake things down. If all is ok head straight for Tampa and then ten hour legs to get past the hurricane devastated area. You should be able to easily make it to Stuart in eight days.

David

 

[mvweebles]

I can only speak to my local area of the ICW near St Petersburg - a 25-mile stretch of Pinellas County from Clearwater Beach in the north to Passe-a-Grille in the south. I do not know about fuel availability, but I do know Jet Age Fuel will deliver to a dock or wharf. Would be worth a call to them - they may have a suggestion on a public one, or perhaps a private one behind a good Samaritan's home. I wouldn't be surprised if there are a couple fuel docks open.

The ICW itself is fine, though I would check with the USCG before entering any inlet to make sure the ATONs have been verified. The ICW itself is still beautiful with plenty of anchorage opportunities. I believe the drawbridges are operating but not positive.

Hope this helps -

Peter