Day sails and anchorages around Tampa Bay

[JohnnyMac]

In early March we have out of state friends coming to sail. Our boat is berthed up the Anclote River. I am looking for recommendations for Anchorages and day sails into Tampa Bay. I have a 38' sailboat with a 5 ft fixed keel.
Much appreciated,
JohnnyMac
S/V DawnTreader

 

[Benny17441]

Good anchorages at Egmont Key and up the Manatee River. Other is downtown St. Petersburg in front of Vinoy Hotel or by the Pier. A few places in Upper Tampa Bay. Beer Can Island offers a Tiki Bar and other amenities accesible by dingui.

 

[JohnnyMac]

Thanks, Benny!
Speaking of Dinks. Do you have a recommendation for someone to work on small outboards?

 

[Joe]

Egmont key is quite a way, 45 miles or so, from the mouth of the Anclote river. My friends' kept their Island Packet in Indian Rocks/Belleair area and we often ventured south down the intercoastal towards Bradenton. Once we overnighted at Bimini Bay on Ana Maria, a small anchorage across from a little golf course that was a quick dink ride to the boatyard area with a neat all you can eat seafood restaurant. But heck, it took a long time because you had to cross the ship channel. From where you are that's a bit long for a day sail. But if you want to anchor, spend the night and swim Echmont is pretty cool.
Honeymoon Island seems more doable since it's only a couple hours each way... depending on your destination. Why don't you consult a cruising guide for the area for specific anchorages within 15 miles of your location? Be aware that spring break may affect access to some anchorages. and beaches....so you may have to put up with partying college girls in bikinis.

 

[Will Gilmore]

Fort De Soto, Caladesi Island. No Anchorage on Caladesi, just sail up to the beach and anchor in soft sand. Probably no bikini clad college girls, or anyone else, but it's been decades since I was sailing around there; almost half a century, in fact.

-Will