My father just bought a condo on the intercoastal in hollywood fl between miami and ft lauderdale. Im going to be boating down there this summer and would like to pick the locals brains about the boating scene in this area. Obviously the miami to key west is a popular run. and ive heard a little about the Bimini islands. thay both look fairly close. Is there any percautions i need to take? I have heard rumors about pirats stealing boats when you get into international waters??? And most of all is my 28' powerquest big enough to be save on the BIG water of the atlantic? I do have GPS and Ship to Shore radio wich im sure is a must for both trips. Any input is appreciated. Thanks.

It could all be done with the 28, but most of us just go to Elliott Key, Peanut island, Lake Boca, or Islamorada sandbar.

Ill have to look into thoes places. how far are thay from the miami inlet. All i know is that area is beautifull and looks like a boaters paradise!

Peanut Island and Lake Boca are North in West palm area. Elliott Key is probably 10 - 15 miles or so from Government cut, Islamorada Sandbar is in the keys, 45 miles or so south of elliott. All of the above are fun places to hang for the day, some more family friendly than others Here is a short vid of us heading from Elliot key to islamorada thru the bay last summer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-_4V9zkVgQ

and one from the islamorada sandbar later that day

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVkUT...8&feature=plcp

Josh, Rick is right in saying to stay within Florida waters with a boat of that size. Get some experience first before venturing very far offshore. Not sure if you have a one or two engine boat but I cannot in good conscience suggest anyone venture across to the Bahamas in a single engine boat. Also the first time or two until you know and fully understand the hazards, take another boat along for support.

Until then maybe follow this thread and a few others that will provide you with a lot of the info you will need to do it safely.
http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/c...as-thread.html

Now as for the " pirates ", you have been reading too many novels. LOL

Good luck and enjoy,

Bob

There is even a few freshwater fun spots down here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMD75...5&feature=plcp

Thanks guys. Ill stay tuned in and take notes....

There are plenty of stops and places to explore in the keys. I just moved my boat back to the Coral lagoon boathouse in Marathon for the winter. We have a great time without ever leaving the USA. I will add new info to the above thread as winter fun happens. Miami boat show for sure. Any local info on a possible slip or tie within walking distance of the Miami convention center for the show? I'm thinking of boating up from Marathon to the boat show, what a thought?

Love to watch this sob cruise

Thanks,

Now if I could just squeeze a little more speed out of it