Best Boats For Cruising The Intracoastal Waterway

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a 3,000-mile series of interconnected waterways stretching from Virginia to Texas. It offers a safer alternative to navigating the open ocean, taking boaters to picturesque waters along the US coastline. While nearly any boat can enjoy the primary waterways, the abundance of shallow, skinny waters means that some boats are better suited to the ICW than others. Shallow-draft bay boats, for example, are popular among ICW boaters as they combine a minimal draft with enough V in the hull to cut through choppy waters. Flats boats and skiffs, on the other hand, offer a brutal ride in rough waters.

Shallow-draft bay boats

The shallow, skinny waters of the ICW call for a specific type of boat, and shallow-draft bay boats fit the bill perfectly. These boats are designed to handle a wide range of water conditions, from the tranquil bays and inlets to the occasional choppy waters. One of the key advantages of shallow-draft bay boats is their minimal draft, which allows them to navigate shallow waters with ease. Their hull design strikes a balance between a shallow draft and the ability to handle choppy waters, with enough V-shape forward to cut through the waves.

Carolina Skiff's LS models are a great example of shallow-draft bay boats. They offer a minimal draft, allowing boaters to explore the flats and shallows of the backcountry. At the same time, their hull design provides enough V-shape to handle the choppy waters that can often be encountered in open bays or channels. Additionally, their outboard engines can be fully trimmed out of the water, further reducing the required depth.

Another benefit of shallow-draft bay boats is their freeboard, which is higher than that of typical skiffs or flats boats. This makes them more appealing to families and adds to their versatility, as they can be taken outside the protected waters of the ICW. Shallow-draft bay boats truly shine in the ICW, offering a comfortable and capable boating experience.

When it comes to specific models, the HydraSports 23 Bay Bolt is an excellent choice. It has an 11.5-inch draft and a spacious 8-foot 10-inch beam, providing excellent stability and displacement. The Robalo 246 Cayman is another impressive option, featuring an extended V-plane hull design that improves stability and efficiency, while also allowing for planing in shallow waters.

In conclusion, shallow-draft bay boats are an ideal choice for the Intracoastal Waterway. They offer a perfect balance of shallow draft and chop-handling capabilities, along with the versatility to venture beyond the ICW. With their minimal draft, spacious design, and sturdy construction, these boats provide a safe and enjoyable boating experience for both locals and transient boaters exploring the ICW.

Sailboats

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a 3,000-mile (4,800 km) inland waterway that runs from Boston, Massachusetts, down the Atlantic coast, around the southern tip of Florida, and then follows the Gulf Coast to Brownsville, Texas. It is a protected route that offers a safer alternative to navigating the open ocean.

The best type of sailboat for the ICW is one with a mast no higher than 64 feet and a keel no deeper than 5 feet. There is a stretch of the ICW between Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale that allows boats with taller masts (over 64 feet) and deeper keels (around 7 feet), as all the bridges within this stretch are open. Elsewhere, the bridges are 65 feet high and do not open.

The ICW is a narrow waterway with a shallow draft. It is busy with boat traffic, especially in the autumn and spring when snowbirds flock south for the winter and return north in the spring. The waterway is spanned by 160 bridges, most of which are fixed with a vertical clearance of 65 feet (20 metres). There are also opening bridges that swing or lift to allow boats to pass. These bridges operate on a timetable, usually opening on the half-hour.

The ICW offers a unique sailing experience with beautiful scenery and access to quaint towns and cities. It is a great option for sailors who want to explore the East Coast of the United States without venturing into the open ocean.

• Diligent study of bridge locations and timetables is essential for a smooth passage.
• The ICW can be crowded with powerboats, especially in southern Florida, so it is advisable to go outside the ICW or avoid travelling on weekends in this area.
• The ICW has a lot of shallow areas, and it is important to pay attention to depth sounders and navigation marks.
• Faster boats will often pass slower sailboats, and it is courteous to slow down to minimise the wake.
• There are many restaurants and marinas along the ICW that cater to boaters, offering dock space, cold drinks, and fresh seafood.
• The ICW provides access to quieter, less-trafficked coastal areas, including coastal flats, adjoining rivers, backcountry creeks, and quiet bays.
• The ICW offers an eclectic mix of architecture, with a variety of properties to admire, from mansions to inner-city-style apartment blocks.
• There is a sense of camaraderie among boaters on the ICW, and it is common to exchange pleasantries with bridge operators and other sailors.

Powerboats

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts provide a luxurious cruising experience with their spacious cabins and modern amenities. They are known for their power and speed, making them ideal for covering long distances comfortably. However, their deeper drafts may restrict access to shallower areas along the ICW.

Trawlers

Trawlers are excellent for those seeking stability and comfort during their voyage. They are designed for long journeys, offering a steady and fuel-efficient ride even in varying sea conditions. With their spacious interiors, trawlers provide a reliable and cosy cruising experience. Their slower cruising speeds may be a downside for those seeking faster travel.

Power Cruisers or "Express Boats"

These boats typically feature a cabin below and an open cockpit design, with social spaces such as the galley and salon located on the deck in an open-air environment. Express boats usually have twin or multiple engines and can travel quickly, but they may not be the most fuel-efficient option.

Cabin Cruisers

Cabin cruisers offer a range of options, from pocket cruisers (smaller boats) to motor yachts (larger vessels with multiple cabins and higher speeds). They are well-equipped for liveaboard cruising, featuring comfortable cabins, full baths/showers, galleys, and ample storage space for extended trips.

When choosing a powerboat for the ICW, consider factors such as size, draft, and manoeuvrability. A shallow draft is ideal for navigating the varying depths of the ICW without running aground. Additionally, good manoeuvrability will allow you to navigate tight spaces and changing currents with ease. Prioritise safety, understand weather patterns and tides, and practice efficient mooring and docking techniques for a smooth and enjoyable journey along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Motor yachts

When it comes to motor yachts, there are several options available for charter or rental in the ICW. These include:

• Speedboats
• Power boats
• Luxury motor yachts

Some specific models that are often seen in the ICW include:

• Azimut 70
• Predator 80
• Lazzara 80
• Sunseeker Manhattan 60
• Sea Ray 400
• Mangusta 103
• Broward 30M
• Hargrave 101
• Leopard 27
• Predator 75
• Mangusta 105
• Princess 30 M
• Custom motor yachts
• Astondoa 81
• Ferretti 830

When choosing a motor yacht for the ICW, it is important to consider the draught and keel depth, as the ICW can be shallow in many places. A motor yacht with a shallow draught, such as a bay boat, can be a good option for the ICW. These boats offer a good balance between a minimal draught for exploring shallow waters and a V-shaped hull for choppy conditions.

Additionally, the height of the mast is an important consideration, as there are many bridges along the ICW with a maximum clearance of 65 feet (20 metres). Boats with a mast height of 64 feet or less are typically able to fit under these bridges. However, there is a stretch of the ICW between Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale where all the bridges open up, allowing boats with taller masts to pass through.

Overall, motor yachts can be a great choice for the ICW, offering a comfortable and luxurious way to explore the diverse scenery, towns, and natural areas along the waterway.

Cabin cruisers

When choosing a cabin cruiser for the ICW, consider the draft and height restrictions along the route. The ICW includes shallow waters and low bridges, so a shallow-draft boat and a lower profile can be advantageous. Additionally, a cabin cruiser with good fuel economy is ideal, as fuel stops may be spread out along the route.

The ICW offers a unique boating experience, combining natural waterways with man-made canals, and providing access to both secluded areas and bustling towns. It is a popular route for boaters looking to explore the East Coast and enjoy the variety of experiences the ICW has to offer.

Overall, a cabin cruiser can be an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, offering comfort, amenities, and the ability to navigate the diverse conditions and sights along the way.

Frequently asked questions