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FL Inlet Caution: St. Lucie Inlet ("The Crossroads")
- Date Reported: Jun 2, 2022
- Reporter: Jani Parker
- Source: Waterway Guide Staff
- Description:
Overview: This marks the intersection of the Indian River, Saint Lucie, Okeechobee Waterway and ICW (hence "The Crossroads") and is used by sport fishermen, megayachts and offshore sailors.
Approach: St. Lucie Inlet Lighted Buoy "2" (4 sec) is located at N 27° 10.018'/W 080° 08.370'.
Navigation: Zoning laws restrict most buildings to a maximum of four stories so local captains returning from the Bahamas are said to locate St. Lucie Inlet by merely aiming for the "valley" midway between the high rise buildings of St. Lucie County to the north and Palm Beach County to the south. Jetty to the north and small breakwater to the south mark the entrance.
Webcam: For a live view of the inlet visit St. Lucie Inlet Live Cam.
Cautions & Hazards: The 2-mile run from the ICW to the ocean is subject to continuous shoaling, currents may be strong and markers may be off station. Temporary buoys have been placed between the inlet and the ICW. Most markers are unlit; therefore, nighttime navigation is not recommended.
Frequently dredged occurs but this inlet requires caution due to problematic shoaling. Jetty to the north and breakwater to the south offer protection once inside, although protection from the south is marginal in east to southeast winds. The USCG has placed temporary markers denoting best water. Local knowledge should be obtained before using this inlet. The current can be strong. Avoid this inlet in an east wind (over 15 knots) on an outgoing tide.
ICW Connection: ICW is approximately 1 nm away at Mile 988.
- Lat / Lon: N 27° 09.988' / W 080° 09.224'
1 Boater Comment
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Comment by: Rich, Drunken Princess, on May 15, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 74'
Draft: 5.0'Very straightforward inlet, the shallow part starts inside the jetties in calmer water.
View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
