Fort Myers - Sanibel - Miserable Mile - Hurricane Ian

[Freestyle]

I am heading south from Tampa to Exumas this week and weather may drive me inside.

Does anyone have local knowledge of the ICW route through the Miserable Mile and under the Sanibel causeway to the Gulf?

Did Ian change the charted route?

Thanks

Bruce

Freestyle
1986 62 CPMY (54MY with ext)
Tampa

 

[zigzag930]

Bruce,

I'm in Punta Gorda and have been through that area 4-5 times. I have not been through since IAN, so can't say if things have become better or worse.

I can tell you that pass is very narrow and very shallow on each side - so pay close attention when transiting. Claim the center, watch your sounder carefully and go slow. I draw 5'10" and haven't touched bottom on any of my passes through that area.

The bridge is no issue and will put you out right at the mouth of the Caloosahatche River

 

[Hat52MY]

Give the local TowBoat US and/or Sea Tow a ring. In my experience, they have always provided good local knowledge. Some of them have even posted local trouble spots on-line. Safe passage to the Exuma’s….enjoyed our trip there last year, cant wait to do it again!

 

[madhatter1]

Be aware of the Stuart bridge closure dates for the trip back.