Navigating the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) along Florida's Gulf Coast involves transiting a series of bridges, each with its own operational characteristics. Here's a guide to help mariners plan their passage through these bridges, which all monitor VHF Channel 09. It's crucial to note that bridge heights and clearances can vary due to water depth, signage placement, and other variables, so always proceed with caution.

Bridge Operations and Clearances

• Boca Grande Swing Bridge (MM 34.3) – Opens on signal with variations in schedule; Height: 22 feet.
  
  
• Tom Adams Bridge (MM 43.5) – Opens on signal; Height: 26 feet.
  
  
• Manasota Bridge (MM 49.9) – Opens on signal; Height: 26 feet.
  
  
• Tamiami Trail (Circus) Bridges (MM 54.9) – Opens on signal; Height: 25 feet.
  
  
• Venice Avenue Bridge (MM 56.6) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 30 feet.
  
  
• KMI (Hatchett Creek) Bridge (MM 56.9) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 30 feet.
  
  
• Albee Road Bridge (MM 59.3) – Opens on signal; Height: 14 feet.
  
  
• Blackburn Point Bridge (MM 63.0) – Opens on signal; Height: 9 feet.
  
  
• Stickney Point (SR 72) Bridge (MM 68.6) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 18 feet.
  
  
• Siesta Drive Bridge (MM 71.6) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 25 feet.
  
  
• Ringling Causeway (SR 789) Bridge (MM 73.6) – Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
  
  
• New Pass (SR 789) Bridge – Set schedule; Height: 23 feet.
  
  
• Longboat Pass (SR 789) Bridge (MM 73.6) – Opens on signal; Height: 17 feet.
  
  
• Cortez (SR 684) Bridge (MM 87.4) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 22 feet.
  
  
• Anna Maria (SR 64/Manatee Avenue West) Bridge (MM 89.2) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 24 feet.
  
  
• Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge (to Tampa Bay) – Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
  
  
• Pinellas Bayway Structures 'A', 'B', & 'C' Bridges (MM 114.0) – Fixed; Heights: 18 feet, 11 feet, and 65 feet respectively.
  
  
• Corey Causeway (SR 693) Bridge (MM 117.7) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 23 feet.
  
  
• Treasure Island Causeway Bridge (MM 118.9) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 21 feet.
  
  
• Johns Pass Drawbridge – Opens on signal; Height: 27 feet.
  
  
• Welch Causeway (SR 699) Bridge (MM 122.8) – Opens on signal with variations; Height: 25 feet.
  
  
• Park Boulevard (SR 248) Bridge (MM 126.0) – Opens on signal; Height: 20 feet.
  
  
• Indian Rocks Beach (CR 694) Bridge (MM 129.3) – Opens on signal; Height: 25 feet.
  
  
• Belleair Beach and Clearwater Pass Causeway Bridges – Fixed; Heights: 75 feet and 74 feet respectively.
  
  
• Clearwater Memorial Causeway (SR 60) Bridge (MM 136.0) – Fixed; Height: 74 feet.
  
  
• Dunedin Causeway Drawbridge (MM 141.9) – Opens on signal; Height: 24 feet.

For those planning to travel through the GIWW, it's advisable to check the latest navigational alerts and updates for any changes in bridge operations. Most bridges operate on a schedule or open on signal, but exceptions may apply, especially during peak or quiet hours. Stay informed by checking local marine navigation updates or by visiting the official Waterway Guide website for the most current information.