Sailing Around Tampa Bay, Florida
The Gulf side of Florida offers crushed shell beaches, freshwater rivers, sports fishing, smooth water, fair winds, and marine and avian wildlife galore. Day sailing is popular, of course, and there's ample opportunity for R&R (as well as cultural events and partying) right there in Tampa. If you've the time and long for a little more adventure, you can do coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico all the way down to the spectacular Key West - the southernmost point of the United States, and a truly Caribbean destination.
Tampa Bay itself is well protected, allowing a relaxing, pleasurable time, no matter what sort of sailing you're doing. What sort? Yes, there are many options. One can explore little islands, bop around at the Anclote Keys, or jump on a Hobie Cat and allow the wind to power your own personal watercraft! Sailing out from Tampa can be a tranquil break or a roaring adventure. The choice is always yours.
If you're not local, you may even want to head inland to Orlando, say hello to Micky Mouse and all the amazing shows and extravaganzas of Kissimmee. Another really great thing about Florida is that you can cross the state, be dangling your feet in Atlantic waters in just a few hours! It's all very close, very diverse, and makes for a lot of fun!
Fishing is very popular in the area. Snorkeling and SCUBA diving are well received further south, within sailing distance. Many enjoy being able to spend time in the company of dolphins and manatee as well. Tampa provides both the journey and the destination.
Many find St. Petersburg a great place to anchor off and relax. The shallow waters make it an easy jaunt to a beachside watering hole for adult libations (in moderation, of course) or a bite to eat. That can be done in many places along the Gulf coast, but St. Pete has a high concentration of beachside establishments to choose from.
Make a day-sail into an overnighter by heading to Sarasota. You'll find several moorings along the way, and when you arrive (just south of the John Ringling Boulevard (789) bridge) the Island Park will be to your left. Marina Jack has fantastic dining, and has been so well-received that it was nominated for national Marina of the Year in 2006, and has been Readers Choice from 2002-2008. This full-service facility enjoys direct no-bridge access to the Gulf.
Further south is Charlotte Harbor and the Pine Island Sound, by Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach. Then comes Naples, then the Marco Island, which marks the beginning of the Everglades Sailing down from there, one can hit the keys by hugging near the shore, or sail due south to Big Pine Key and Key West. Just west of that famous place is Mooney Harbor, a natural phenomenom for shallow-draft sloops. From there, the Dry Tortugas National Park is a true treasure for those who take the time to visit there.
It's easy to see why Tampa has become such a popular place for sailing. The clear warm water and the plethora of worthwhile destinations (on land and sea) make for a winning combination, no matter what kind of sailing you're interested in that day. Take a trip down there, sail it yourself! You'll be back soon, and for many years to come!
