Florida’s year-round tropical temperatures allow boaters to enjoy picturesque coastal settings and idyllic conditions throughout the year. Central and North Florida include some major urban areas, such as Jacksonville and Orlando, and have excellent waterways for boaters to explore.
Before heading out to enjoy some fishing, watersports, or a tranquil time soaring across Florida’s famed deep blue waters, there are some things to know. This guide to boating in Central and North Florida will explore sought-out areas, popular events, and essential boating rules within these regions.
Where to Boat
Central and North Florida are both ripe with incredible water settings for exploration. Let’s look at some of the top areas for boaters in these regions.
Crystal River, northwest of Orlando near the Gulf of Mexico, is a gorgeous area to explore by boat. This beautiful destination is known for its deep blue waters and excellent fishing. But drive carefully! There is an abundance of manatees in these waters.
The St. Johns River is the longest in Florida, stretching from beyond Jacksonville to south of Orlando. This magnificent river is the perfect destination for boaters, with vast stretches of refreshingly cool water and unique marine life.
Fort George Inlet is a popular destination for boaters near Jacksonville, particularly on weekends. Boaters stop near its gorgeous beaches and sandbars to relax in a picturesque and calm setting.
Destin is a city on Florida’s Panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico, renowned for its sandy beaches. Leaving from the Destin Harbor, boaters can enjoy some of the best fishing in the country, as well as observe and adore its native dolphins.
Major Boating Events
There are several boating events across Central and North Florida to enjoy. Let’s look at some of the most popular in these areas.
Jacksonville Boat Show: Located at the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, this long-running boat show in January dates back more than 75 years. It is a family-friendly occasion with unique educational opportunities and plenty of amazing boats on sale.
Orlando Boat Show: The Orlando Boat Show is a massive annual boating event that takes place from March 17th to March 19th this year. It brings a huge number of vendors to the city, who showcase more than 400 watercraft ranging in size.
Important Rules
The laws and rules of Florida boating are enforced by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation. Specifically, all motor-powered vessels must be registered through the local tax collector’s office, and registration must be displayed on the boat. All persons must be 14 years or older to operate a personal watercraft in Florida. To operate a boat of ten horsepower or more, boaters born after 1988 must obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card and have it on board.
Boaters are not allowed to operate watercraft impaired by alcohol or any other drugs. There are also speed limits for different areas; docking and heavy-traffic areas having more stringent restrictions. Boaters must also have a fishing license to fish unless they are on a chartered boat.
