Hi everyone.
I'm planning a cruise from Miami to Key West (and hopefully back :)).
Originally I had planned to go down the ICW, but I'm hearing reports that the control depth at low tide is around 4 feet, and even at high tide, I can't make it over a few spots with my standard C36 keel.
Apparently the Corp Of Engineers doesn't have the funds to keep the ICW dredged to the authorized depth anymore.
Has anyone tried this lately?
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Ben Ethridge
Miami, FL
1984 MK1 Hull# 263
Ben, have you tried [url]www.activecaptain.com[/url]?
Stu Jackson, C34IA Secretary, C34 #224, 1986, SR/FK, M25 engine, Rocna 10 (22#)
I wholeheartedly endorse ActiveCaptain, as well, but you won't be able to get one response answering your question. You will have to follow the route along on the e-chart and see where captains have posted shoaling or other hazard reports.
I have explored the Keys many times, a few of the trips all the way up to Miami, with no problems, but we have the 4.5 ft wing keel.
Duane Ising - Past Commodore (2011-2012)
s/v Diva Di
1999 Catalina 36 Hull #1777
Std rig; wing keel, M35B, Delta (45#)
Punta Gorda, FL
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/diva-di/
I became a member of activecaptain.com. It is free and has very useful "local knowledge" info, including ICW shoaling updates. Just what I needed. Thanks so much, Stu!
Duane, from looking at the shoaling info on activecaptain, I'd say that a 4.5' keel will make it over with a few high tide timings, but a 5.5' won't. We're going down Hawks Channel instead.
Ben Ethridge
Miami, FL
1984 MK1 Hull# 263