by NavyGator » Sun Mar 21, 2010 5:14 pm
I have made this cruise several times except in the reverse since I live in NE Florida and keep my boat in Jacksonville. The previous advice about staying in the channel is pretty good advice, but it isn't as critical in much of the St Johns River, especially the northern part. The intracoastal north to Fernandina can be a different story depending on your draft. I draw 4 feet and at low tide there are several areas that have silted in even in the channel where the depth may be as low as 6 feet. I don't think you will have a problem, but you may want to set a depth alarm at a depth that corresponds to 2-3 feet of water below your keel.
There are several stops you may want to plan in your trip. The first one headed north is Corky Bells at Devils elbow just south of Palatka. This is a really good restaurant with a very nice floating dock. they have a beautiful deck, live music on weekends and while there are signs that say no overnight docking, we have done so without a problem. The second stop is really a slice of "old Florida" the "Outback Crab Shack" at six mile creek. This is another restaurant a mile or so down the six mile creek located just south of the Shands Bridge near Green Cove Springs. They have a floating dock that must be at least 800 feet long. There are no utilities available, but overnight docking is welcomed. Much like Corky Bells with regard to the deck and entertainment on weekends, its a fun place to spend the night.
There is a Hooters accessible by water on Goodby's Creek just north of the Buckman Bridge that can be a fun stop.
The Jacksonville Landing with free floating dockage at the base of the Main Street bridge in Downtown Jacksonville is another good overnight destination.
About a mile or so past the Dames Point Bridge on the North bank is the site of Fort Caroline which was one of the first settlements in North America. It was settled in the 1500's. The original style fort they erected here has been reproduced and there is a museum a short walk from the fort. There is a nice floating dock for visitors.
Be sure to have a reservation at the city docks in Fernandina as there are some weekends that they can be full.
I hope that you have a chance to visit some of the sites on the way. have a great cruise.
Regards,
Robert B
NavyGator