Bridge comment on Pinellas Bayway Structure 'C' Bridge

Comment by: Greg Hathorn on Aug 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'

IMO, this bridge does not provide 65' clearance at high tide. I have the 63' ICW-friendly rig on my catamaran, and dragged my VHF antenna. We passed under on 8/16/23, one hour before high tide, and held very close to the western guard railing. Water was at +2.19, and I've see it at +2.91 many times. Others have reported the best path is to hug the eastern bridge piling, immediately to the west of the intended channel. I'm told there is always plenty of water. With the naked eye, it is clearly the highest part of the bridge. Otherwise, this is a LOW TIDE bridge for me.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer