Anchoring in the Keys

[malyea]

Just a a few days 'till we get underway, so I can't beat this horse much longer...

Couple months ago someone posted the following assessment of finding an anchorage in the Keys -

"The locals are great on the radio about suggesting anchorages. (and there are a ton of places) Mostly just get out the binoculars and start looking for a bunch of mast."

Does everyone agree with that statement?

And if so, does this statement also apply the eastside/outside or just the Bay (west) side of the Keys?

Also and BTW, as I was doing some laptop chart study (don't have a cruising guide yet) I noticed lots of 10 - 15' deep water on the west edge of Hawk Channel all along the Keys that looks good for anchoring overnight.

Although a bit exposed, if the weather is decent, doesn't the outside reef provide enough protection from ocean swells that it would be comfortable to just anchor off any key in 10 - 15' water for an overnight stay?

Thanks
(we're gettin' there)

[Yorksailor]

I have cruised and anchored in the Keys for 25 yrs and you can anchor almost anywhere out of the transit lines and not on the reef. The problem is that in anything over 20-25 knots you will drag.

I once put out 3 anchors on a 4,000 lb boat in 6 ft of water with 7 to 1 scope and dragged.

The Keys, especially on the outside are 6 inch of sand over a terrazzo floor.

My best nights were spent on the dive moorings outside the reef...nice breeze and no mosquitoes.

Phil

[travlineasy]

I agree with Phil about the bottom--and if you are lucky enough to hold in a blow that usually means your anchor will spend eternity there unless you have some dive gear aboard.

Good luck, and I sure wish I was down there with you--damned it's cold up here!

Gary

[MARC2012]

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