Boating Weather for the intercoastal FL

[Aqua Adventurer]

If you are boating on the intercoastal what is the breakpoint for weather conditions based on the ocean forecast? (in southeast FL)

 

[TeenGee]

I use this:

National Weather Service

forecast.weather.gov

Open the “Marine Zone Forecast”. You might need to adjust the location.

 

[VitaminSea]

From my experience with sustained winds of over ~12mph, you will start having to deal with spray as you cut through chop/wakes, and probably not going to be an enjoyable outing.

I would factor in the way the wind is blowing as well. If North or South, the waves will build. If East or West, waves will still build in wider sections of the ICW (my statement assumes the ICW is running N to S).

What part of FL are you boating in?

 

[lazergeek]

I have boated the ICW between Hillsboro Inlet and Miami on 20+ MPH wind days and had no issues with my 210. I gave up on the ICW however. To many slow areas, to much boat traffic.

 

[Aqua Adventurer]

From my experience with sustained winds of over ~12mph, you will start having to deal with spray as you cut through chop/wakes, and probably not going to be an enjoyable outing.

I would factor in the way the wind is blowing as well. If North or South, the waves will build. If East or West, waves will still build in wider sections of the ICW (my statement assumes the ICW is running N to S).

What part of FL are you boating in?

Thanks for your response!

SE Florida ICW. My boat is a 195S.

 

[jocolo21]

I use Windy app for crossing to the Bahamas and any ocean outing.

 

[fatboyroy]

i use windy - 2ft sea is with somewhat calm wind is the only time i go off shore. Sea change so sometimes from 2 it goes 5ft mid day, still doable for my 190FSH.

 

[steelhorse454]

Aqua- Careful with a 19ft boat. I have an AR195 and at the NC coast, things can change quickly. I usually stay in the Intercoastal.

 

[adrianp89]

Honestly just test your limits. There are parts of our ICW that aren’t even phased by 20+ mph winds.

Wind direction is a big factor as well. West winds down in Miami are favorable.

 

[Joatmon]

It is hot and humid and will rain somewhere, some time during the afternoon. Every day summer forecast. Have fun! I wouldn't live anywhere else.