Florida's Indian River

[kimden5]

Just got back from a couple of awesome days cruising the St. John's River in Florida from Lake Monroe to Lake George on our 18' Sweetwater. My next trip is the inter-coastal waterway/Indian River from Melbourne south to the Stuart area. Does anybody pontoon in this area? Is it safe or feasible. I've noticed some pretty good winds in the Melbourne area where the body of water is quite expansive, but it narrows up considerably as you go south. I've got a lot of years experience in power boats and sailboats, but am new to pontoons. Not quite sure how they handle rough water. Also, does anyone know if there are any places to stay/eat on the water in this area? Thanx

 

[scubacuda]

Re: Florida's Indian River

I've ran st.johns near daytona by ponce inlet plenty of dock offs lots to see , the uscg is all over they board left and right , with a pontoon your operating two boats, rough water can chip a tooth but they do just fine have fun be safe

 

[TD_Maker]

Re: Florida's Indian River

The Indian River in that area is completely different than the St. Johns. In fact, its not really a river at all....its the Intracoastal Waterway, and it is about a mile wide. In fact, barges travel the waterway everyday...as well as ocean cruisers etc... Just stay in the channel.

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Florida's Indian River

I'm sorry, but an 18' pontoon boat doesn't really have the guts to handle very big water. And some of the water south of Melbourne gets pretty big.

If someone's wanting to do some river cruising, a 22-24' boat is much more seaworthy, especially with tritoons, lifting strakes and a 150 hp motor.

 

[mike243]

Re: Florida's Indian River

I lived in Melbourne for a few years, boats of all sizes can & do use the Indian river, we use to take a 14' bow rider out all the time. No water is safe 100% of the time but I wouldn't hesitate to take my 18' toon any where but out in the ocean at the mouth of the river jmo

 

[TD_Maker]

Re: Florida's Indian River

I live here right now. An 18 ft pontoon will be right at home....not issues what so ever. Shoot, the deepest part in the river may only be 15 ft. You will be absolutely fine.

 

[electric603]

Re: Florida's Indian River

How about some pics of your trip of the intercostal. I grew up in Florida but now live in New Hampshire. Could use some pics of sun n fun right now.

 

[staydry]

Re: Florida's Indian River

No worries...I've taken mine from Edgewater to the Cape several times and from Edgewater to St Augustine twice...great boating...GL