Crossing the Keys from the Gulf to the Atlantic

Mobile, AL, crossing the Gulf of Mexico to the FL Keys, Crossing the Keys, the Gulf Stream, to Bimini, Bahamas
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svcheshirecat
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Joined: Wed Jun 18, 2025 10:07 am

Crossing the Keys from the Gulf to the Atlantic

Post by svcheshirecat »

There are two different routes for cruising along the Keys. One is the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW) “inside” through Florida Bay. The other, deeper passage is “outside” via the Hawk Channel route. We should take the Hawk Channel route. This is in the lee of the Keys themselves, and is generally well protected. It is usually a pleasant sail or an easy run for the entire length of the Keys.

The best route for us through the Keys between the ICW and Hawk Channel is probably Moser Channel at ICW Mile 1195, just south of Marathon. This is where Seven Mile Bridge is located and it has a 65 foot vertical clearance. Currents run swiftly with either tide. To get a tidal assist it would be best to cross with an ebb tide, from high to low, and time the crossing with high tide.
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