As the home to 2 million people, it is hard to believe that Tampa, Florida, also has some of the most majestic waterways on the west coast of Florida. Both a place for business and pleasure, Tampa is meant to be explored. From the streets of downtown to the beautiful islands, you can enjoy the amazingly calm breezes of Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast before you head out for a wonderful day of sailing.
The crystal-clear waters of Florida's Gulf Coast, along with the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, makes Tampa an ideal place to go sailing. As one of Clark Gable's favorite places, one of the most popular ports in Tampa is the Bradenton's Manatee River, which is the home port for many of the sailing vessels around. It is convenient because it has direct access to St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Sarasota for more sailing adventures.
Whether you choose to take your own boat or charter a boat, you will enjoy the scenic Manatee River while you cruise around beautiful homes along the banks on either side. At the end, you can anchor up and spend a peaceful night taking in the calm waters. With a nature preserve on the North Side of the entrance to the river, there is plenty to do when you anchor for the day. As you leave the river, you will notice that Anna Maria Island is directly to your left where much of the sailing in Tampa takes place.
After sailing around Anna Maria Island, you can stop at Egmont Key, which has a lighthouse and docks to stop by and say hello to the friendly gatekeepers. Right past that is the open water of the Gulf. A great two-day trip consists of sailing the river, passing Egmont Key, heading into the Gulf, sailing around Ana Maria Island, entering Longboat Pass, circling the beautiful Jewfish Key, and then pulling into the gorgeous anchorage at the north end of Long Boat Key.
Another great adventure is to sail the borders of Tampa Bay where you can see three cities, take a trip down a river diversion, and anchor up at a myriad of places. If you have an entire weekend, you may want to consider sailing along the Florida Coast to Treasure Island or head over to Clearwater Beach. There are crystal-blue waters and dolphins that often swim right next to your vessel.
