Are you planning a sailing trip from Ft Myers to Key West? One of the most common questions that arise when planning this type of trip is how long it will take. The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the weather conditions, the speed of your boat, and the route you decide to take.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Your Sailing Trip
Firstly, let’s discuss some factors that can affect the length of your sailing trip from Ft Myers to Key West.
Weather Conditions: The weather conditions can significantly impact the duration of your sailing trip. If you encounter strong winds or rough seas, it may take longer to reach your destination. On average, sailors can expect a journey time of around 8-10 hours in good weather conditions.
The Speed of Your Boat: The speed of your boat also plays a crucial role in determining how long it will take to get from Ft Myers to Key West. A faster boat will naturally cover more distance in less time than a slower one.
The Route You Take: There are various routes you can take when sailing from Ft Myers to Key West. Some routes are more direct than others and may shorten the journey time. However, other routes can be more scenic and enjoyable but may take longer.
The Most Common Routes
There are two main routes that sailors often take when traveling from Ft Myers to Key West: the inside route and outside route.
The Inside Route: This is a popular route for sailboats as it follows the protected waters inside Florida’s west coast barrier islands. It is a scenic route with plenty of anchorages along the way where you can rest or explore local attractions.
The inside route typically takes around 20 hours if sailed non-stop at an average speed of 5 knots. However, since there are many places to stop along the way, many sailors choose to break up the journey into two or more days, making the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
The Outside Route: This route is commonly taken by motorboats as it involves traveling through the Gulf of Mexico, outside of Florida’s west coast barrier islands. The outside route is usually faster than the inside route, but it can also be more challenging and require a higher level of experience.
The outside route from Ft Myers to Key West typically takes around 10-12 hours at an average speed of 20 knots. However, this time can vary depending on the weather conditions and the speed of your boat.
Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Sailing Trip
No matter which route you choose, there are some essential tips you should keep in mind to ensure a safe and comfortable sailing trip.
- Check weather forecasts before you set sail.
- Prepare your boat well in advance.
- Bring enough food and water for the journey.
- Make sure you have enough fuel for your boat.
- Carry all necessary safety equipment aboard your boat.
In Conclusion
The duration of your sailing trip from Ft Myers to Key West depends on various factors that we have discussed above. Whether you choose to take the inside or outside route, make sure you plan your journey well in advance, follow safety guidelines, and enjoy this beautiful sailing trip!
