Moving to Melbourne FL

[John]

I am planning on moving to the Melbourne Fl area in a year or so. My 27 has a 4 foot draft. Is there enough water for this boat besides the Atlantic? Can anyone recommend a marina over there? Should I look for a shoal draft??

 

[Brian]

Yes

I would say the best full service marina is Melbourne Harbour Marina. There are several good dining options within walking distance and Conchy Joes a few miles north where you can anchor/dinghy in. As far as sailing goes, you options are the intercoastal. Closest inlet is Canaveral (about 5 hours) and Ft. Pierce (at least 6 hours). The Indian River (intercoastal) does have some deeper areas outside the channel for sailing just to the north, but south towards Sebastian it is way shallow outside of it.BrianS/V CREW REST

 

[Del Wiese]

Melbourne a great place to sail and live

I echo Ron's posting. We live across from Telemar Bay Marina and have been sailing this area since 1966. 4' draft is no problem, my current boat draws 4' 9" and although there are many areas in the Indian River with less than this, with some experience, and discussions with others, you really have few limitations. Access to the Bahamas is good and while it takes a few days to get there, the Keys are achievable. The ECSA that Ron mentioned has cruising and racing activities. This is a good place to sail and live!