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The Florida Gulf Coast resort of Naples is rather well-known. Naples and the surrounding area provide a lot to see. For instance, when traveling from Miami to Naples, you may stop at multiple national parks and natural reserves to witness a variety of birds, including exotic ones, and several alligator types. However, that is not the main attraction for visitors to the area. But the best thing about Naples, and Florida in general, is the abundance of islands. Their proximity to each other makes it ideal for sailing between the islands by boat. Moreover, many attractions in this part of Florida can be easily seen from the water, such as Everglades Park. Most of Florida’s islands are equipped for boating and yachting. You’ll find excellent marinas, and the islands themselves are not cut off from civilization. You’ll find everything you need for a quality vacation on most of them.
Can You Boat From Naples to Marco Island?
The coastline of the city of Naples, Florida, is ideal for all kinds of activities and recreation. However, you must realize that the Naples region is a network of several islands in the Gulf of Mexico that can provide you with no worse recreation than the city itself. The largest and most popular of these islands is Marco Island. It offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. Fans of fishing, camping, and picnics will love Marco Island. In addition, sailing through this network of islands to Marco Island is one of the favorite activities for lovers of yachting. So if you have set yourself the goal of taking a boat from Naples to Marco Island, it is a doable task.
A boat trip to Marco Island will not take long, but you will have the opportunity to explore the island from the beginning to the end. In addition, Marco Island is one of the most developed islands among all ten thousand islands near Florida, so do not think that you will be cut off from civilization. Marco Island will delight you with chic resorts, beautiful beaches, and many nature reserves. Naturally, beautiful panoramic views are guaranteed.
If you find yourself on Marco Island – be sure to check out Collier Seminole State Park. This park is only a few miles from the island, so take some time to get there. Fishing, boating, and long nature walks await you there. The Briggs Nature Center, a unique place where you can see animals living in conditions as close to their habitat as possible, is on the island.
Boating Rules and Regulations in Naples
You may be excited about your paddling around the islands in the Naples area and it’s understandable. Before you do so, however, you should take a cold-headed approach to learn the rules and regulations of the state of Florida as they pertain to boating.
Florida does not require a license for boating. However, it’s important to keep in mind that anyone who was born after January 1, 1988, needs to attend a boating safety course. Anyone wanting to operate a watercraft of any kind with an engine greater than 10 horsepower must finish this course. You will obtain the necessary certificate after finishing the course, which you must submit before starting your thrilling tour.
Remember – it is illegal and punishable to operate a boat while intoxicated in the state of Florida. As little as 0.08 percent blood alcohol is enough to be considered intoxicated, so it is highly recommended that you refrain from consuming alcohol on your rental boat.
Different areas of the Bay have different speed zones, which you should also research before your trip. All speed zones must be followed if you want to avoid a fine. This is especially true of the “Idle Speed – No Wake” speed zone.
Ideally, no strong waves should be created behind your boat. Keep an eye on this so that you can more easily understand your speed. Then there is the speed zone “Slow Down – Minimum Wake”. While in this zone, your boat should not be at full throttle and should not settle flat on the water.
All boats rented must meet the safety precautions set by the Coast Guard. Personal flotation devices and fire extinguishers must be on board. The presence of lights and sirens is also mandatory. If the boat is underway, every child under 6 years of age on board must wear a lifejacket. However, if the boat is anchored or moored, life jackets may not be worn.
Keep manatees in mind as you sail. These animals are protected under federal law, so applying any harm to a manatee will be fraught with legal problems. You must also not create situations in which the natural behavior of the manatee is disturbed. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary problems, you should not violate manatee protection zones.
Another important thing is to always be mindful of seagrass. Seagrass is a source of food for many marine animals, so do not swim through its thickets. To avoid trouble with seagrass, it is recommended to keep your boat at a certain distance from the shoreline.\
Best Places to Anchor around Naples
Naples is probably one of the best places in the Gulf of Mexico to explore all the islands by boat. It’s full of activities for boating enthusiasts. The region is full of private reserves where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. For the sunbathers, there are many clean beaches with white sands. Lovers of various water activities like snorkeling will also like it here.
If you want to drop an anchor, the Naples area is full of places where you can do this. One of the best is on the shores of Quivaidin. Cape Romano and the island of Quiche are also suitable places. If you want to see the Everglades National Park from the water, Indian Key is the best place for you.
The best way to get unrestricted panoramic views of the state’s greatest sunsets is to anchor around dusk. Furthermore, anchoring at night and far from civilization offers breathtaking views of the sky and several possibilities for stargazing.
Fishing in Naples, FL
Fishing is a favorite pastime of many. If you’re a fan of fishing, especially while boating, the Gulf of Mexico has a lot to offer. Whether you prefer saltwater or freshwater fishing, Naples has options for everyone. Fishing in Southwest Florida is more exciting and diverse than much of the rest of the United States and the world. You can catch many types of fish here. But the waters of the Gulf of Mexico are especially rich in snook, lutian, kingfish, barracuda, and redfish. But this list is far from complete, so your prey will not be limited to these fish.
The region is full of great fishing spots, so you’ll have plenty to choose from. However, the best fishing spots in Florida are considered to be the Naples Pier and the shores along the Gordon River. Another great place to fish is Tigertail Beach in northern Marco Island. Boca Grande Island is also popular among fishing enthusiasts. The subdivided areas of all Ten Thousand Islands are also loved by fishermen. However, when fishing in some of these areas you need to be vigilant. Pelicans also come here to fish, so be very careful.
Most importantly, you will need a fishing license to fish in Florida, so be sure to get one. Legal problems are the last thing you expect from your vacation in Florida.
