Hi,
It's an easy trip this time of year. I'd suggest a short daysail to
Miami and then to Rodriguez Key, If I
recall from my last trip around. 'Next day to Marathon and
anchor outside if it's settled. Then on to
Key West. These are fairly easy day hops.
Key West to the sea mark for the south west
passage into tampa bay is a day and a half. That would put you entering the bay at sunset. It would be a shame to miss all the beautiful cruising on the
west coast of
Florida though. I'd consider Key West to Ft. Myers Beach a nice overnight run and pick up a city
mooring an have a few beers in the beach town. Then you can go back out and day sail up to Venice inlet or Longboat pass, both fairly easy in's. You can also run up the inside
ICW but it's a PIA with all the bridges and shallows to either side of the channel. You would not have time to eat lunch nor take a pee 'cause you just can't leave the
helm. However there are spots deep enough to
anchor off the channel.
Where are you going in Tampa Bay. I live in St. Petersburg and can suggest
anchorages or moorings.
Cheers,
Dennis