Sarasota area ICW bridge information?

[Persy]

I'm sailing from Pensacola to Sarasota in a couple of weeks, then down to the keys in after a few more weeks. I have read about the shoaling at New & Big Sarasota passes, so it seems that best way to enter Sarasota Bay from the North is Longboat Pass, then exit South at Venice Inlet. I may want to go farther South in the ICW if weather isn't cooperating.My mast height is about 60', I draw 5' * Any overhead cables or bridges between Longboat & Venice Inlet under 60'? * If I can make Venice, how farther South can I go in the ICW with a 60' mast? * Any other local knowledge of that area would be very appreciated!!thanks!

 

[ed]

you can do it

Your observations about sarasota are correct. It is a problem getting in and out of sarasota and with your draft should be done only by someone familar with the area.You can go south inside without bridge problems. They open or they are 65 feet. The thing you need is a late copy of cruising guide to west florida.You can get in and out of venice easily. Or Naples. You can go from tampa bay to FT. Meyers Beach without too much problem. One area to pay attention its south of Pine island. As you go east from the south end of pine island you got thur what locals call the miserable mile. The channel is narrow. And significant cross current is common on fast tides. But pay attention.Also there is a tricky area inside longboat pass. If you come it there, you will stay with the channel east to the intacostal then turn south. The intracoastal turns a bit and goes arround two islands. There is some shoaling there and it its marked with temp marks. So just pay attention. There is a popular ancorage there behind longboat. Two good places to eat with easy access.Moores has a dock you can use to eat, then anchor off.As you go south the channel is straight with very shallow bars on each side, well marked, but stay in the channel.You will have to open some bridges as you go south but you should be fine.Have a good trip,

 

[Persy]

thanks for info

Many thanks to both of you for the information...our schedule...Pensacola to Sarasota May 1Sarasota to Key West May 8Key West to Sarasota June6Sarasota to Pensacola June 19Above subject to weather of course, but pretty firm.We are going to sail in the keys for a week, but not sure yet where we are going to go....want to find snorkeling spots if possible...maybe to go tortugas, but may not want to 3 days of our 7 on that project.....