Order your navigational charts. Gain an overall picture of your upcoming trip by viewing full-size navigational charts generated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA compiles these charts for virtually every part of the United States east coast from Maine through Key West, Florida. Charts display navigational markers and hazards, off-limits governmental zones (e.g.naval bases), and color-coded water depths.
Keep in mind that NOAA does not sell the charts it produces, but markets them through retail chart agents. Charts with recent navigational updates can sometimes be printed on an on-demand basis (See Resources).
Establish the proper route for your boat. Examine the NOAA charts covering your departure point to Key West. Although the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) provides a coastal route to Florida, some vessels have draft and height constraints that don't allow them to use this waterway.
Specifically, the ICW's charted depths are not always consistent. Deep draft vessels may need to travel offshore to avoid running aground even in marked channels. Although drawbridges accommodate most vessels, some fixed bridges have very low clearances. Sailboats, along with motor yachts and trawlers with elevated electronics antennae, may need to plan offshore legs around the fixed bridges (See Resources).
Identify marinas and repair facilities. Anchoring options may be limited along parts of the ICW. Marinas are plentiful along the route, but may not be located at convenient stopping points. When you're formulating each day's travel schedule, include marinas and repair facilities in your plans (See Resources).
Perform vessel upgrades and maintenance. Remember that a safe journey depends partially on your boat's readiness. Before you depart, ensure that your vessel is in top-notch mechanical and operational condition. If you have a sailboat, for example, have the rigging professionally evaluated and tuned. Make sure your engine is running smoothly, and that you know how to troubleshoot minor problems.
Stock a locker full of spare parts and equipment. As an example, purchase extra sanitation hoses and hose clamps, plus parts for your galley sink pump. Remember that marine supply store access will be limited.
Obtain a coast guard vessel safety decal. Once you've outfitted and upgraded your boat, contact a nearby United States Coast Guard auxiliary branch for a vessel safety check. These checks are performed by volunteer auxiliary members (See Resources).
The coast guard auxiliary examiner will inspect your vessel for compliance with Coast Guard required and recommended safety equipment regulations. Required equipment includes a copy of navigation rules, personal flotation devices for everyone aboard and distress signals. If your boat passes the inspection, you'll receive a compliance decal to post in a visible location.
Handle your personal affairs. Ask a trusted family member or friend to forward your mail and handle your personal business. If your associate doesn't want the mail detail, ask a mail forwarding service to send your mail ahead to pre-arranged marina stops. Although there are several mail forwarding services, one company will also ship marine supplies along with your mail (See Resources).
Stock your boat with provisions. Consult with your crew, and develop a meal plan that meets crew preferences and dietary restrictions. Remember that staples such as paper towels and sugar will usually be available in shoreside markets. On the other hand, you should stock up on unusual meal ingredients and special dietary foods before you leave.
Watch for a weather window. Choose a departure date, and watch weather forecasts carefully for several days beforehand. Although it's tempting to adhere to a predetermined schedule, it's not wise to risk damage to the boat or crew as a result of a departure in nasty weather.
Plan for upcoming travel days. At the end of each day, evaluate the condition of the boat and crew. Fix any minor maintenance issues, plan meals and snacks for the next day, and chart a course for the day's run. Identify marinas or anchorages that can be used during bad weather. Finally, look at the distance you want to cover within the next three days. Evaluate projected weather conditions, and remember that boaters can choose to stay in port on unfavorable weather days.
Plan your arrival in Key West. Because Key West is such a popular destination, marina space may be limited at times. Reserve your slip in advance, and confirm that it's available on the day of your arrival. Finally, become familiar with your Key West Harbor chart before you begin the last portion of your trip.
