Caladesi Island, A Local Weekend GetawayThe sun is out, but someone turned down the heat. Never fear; taking local short trips are worth firing up the engines and setting a course for a quick getaway. Exploring and having an adventure doesn't have to stop when the temperature dips. Throw on a cozy sweatshirt and set the course for a little adventure.One such easy weekend trip is to Caladesi Island State Park, a barrier island located in the Dunedin and Clearwater area on the Gulf Coast of Florida. This destination is only reachable by private boat or ferry rides and offers a protected state park with loads of activities. The bonus is that right next door is Honeymoon Island which is also an untouched nature adventure.Taking the inside route through Tampa Bay toward Pinellas Park is more scenic than the Gulf, but it will take longer. Depending on your boat's speed, you may break up the cruising by staying at a...
The Benefits of US Coast Guard Documentation
While registration with the state you reside in is required, documenting your vessel with the USCG is not, but it is highly recommended. Should you document your yacht with the federal government, or is simply registering the vessel with the state good for your needs? Read on to learn more about the benefits of US Coast Guard documentation.Documenting your boat provides proof of nationality as well as ownership. The vessel paperwork from the US Coast Guard is accepted worldwide, alleviating both issues.In the US, all registered vessels are given the same protections as those not, but an American citizen must own the boat for such recognition.Without much exception, vessels longer than 26 feet must have some form of documentation. In addition, an officially registered vessel will have a number assigned that will be affixed to the hull.Under federal law, every undocumented vessel with propulsion equipment must be assigned a number in the state where...
Manatee Season
It’s that time of year when the manatee population in the area increases. Between December and February is the peak season when manatees move further inland seeking warmer waters.When the air and water temperature drop, the manatees move to Southwest Florida for refuge in warmer temperatures. Thus, this is also the time of year when accidental boat contact with manatees is common. The manatees are docile yet curious to a fault. They are easily lured by running water and the promise of a food source. As they are affectionately referred to, the sea cows aren’t creatures that travel in packs but will move in large informal groups as they seek food and balmy temps.While it’s exciting to encounter these creatures in nature, there are some things to keep in mind this time of year to ensure their safety and yours.Many have seen Manatees in marinas along the Manatee River. While this is a unique chance to see the creatures...
Ring in the New Year and Update Your GearMake a resolution to check your safety essentials.The new year isn't just a time for resolutions; it is also a good time to get organized. Making goals for the year should include taking inventory of your boat contents and checking the safety essentials. It's time to either purchase missing items, check to see if they are in working order, or replenish them.According to discoverboating.com, there are five essential safety items for your boat. There are many more to add to the list, but these are the top five.
Life jackets and wearable personal flotation devices (PFDs)The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims. Life vests must be worn, especially when underway but are also recommended when not below deck. Though it's not law to wear a vest for those over 13, it is lifesaving. Take an inventory of what life...
An illuminating guide to the lights of the holiday season.No holiday season would be complete without the magic of twinkling lights and the boisterous laughter of Santa on the scene. The Bradenton area boasts an impressive selection of activities to participate in. Below is our list of top picks to kick off the holiday season.
Main Street LiveNovember 23, 2022 - Pre-ThanksgivingThough this event isn’t about the lighting, for a little pre-holiday cheer and holiday shopping, check out this event. There will be products from local artisans, crafts for the kiddos, and even Santa will be available for photos. The Main Street Live runs from 6-9 p.m.Notable lighted holiday boat parades:Jiggs Landing Outpost will host an “Old Florida” holiday boat parade on the Evers Reservoir and Braden River on December 10, 2022.
For those boaters who want to participate, you may arrive early to decorate your boat. Spectators can bring their own chairs and set them up by the waterside. The parade...
A Quick Getaway at Egmont Key
Just over an hour's boat ride from Riviera Dunes Marina, Egmont Key is a secluded wildlife refuge located at the mouth of Tampa Bay and on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. Accessible only by boat, this wildlife refuge offers visitors a plentitude of activities, including fishing, shelling, swimming, birdwatching, and exploring the island. If you are there to snorkel, you will enjoy checking out the sunken gun batteries that are now home to an abundance of sea life.
A lush green canopy covers the island's interior, while white sand beaches are surrounded by stunning crystal blue and turquoise waters.
As a preservation site, Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is partly run by the state and offers a full exploration of the ruins of Fort Dade, a relic from the Spanish-American war. Three decommissioned batteries were used to house disappearing guns that were meant to be disguised under enemy attack. Only the remains are there as...
