One of my favorite places to visit in all of North America has to be Florida.  I’m not really sure what it is, but it probably has something to do with all the childhood trips I’ve taken there.  While most of my time has been spent on the east coast, I’m making a definite change to spending a little more time boating on Florida west coast.  With all the man made tourist attractions there, it’s easy to lose track of the natural wonders that can be enjoyed from and on the water.

With so much coast line to it’s credit, it’s easy to understand why Florida is such an important place for boaters.  And doubly easy to understand why it’s important to keep open all the existing rivers, lakes, streams, deltas and oceans for all sorts of boaters.  It doesn’t matter whether your a sail boater, a power boater, a jet skier, a deep sea fishing boater or a wind surfer.  Anyone who spends time on any of the many Florida waterways knows how beautiful the view and surroundings can be from the water.  It’s just a different perspective.  Even if you don’t own your own vessel, you owe it to yourself to get on a boat of some shape or form the next time your in Florida.

Boat charters or tours are a good way to do this, if your just visiting.  Even if your a local, and don’t own your own boat, renting some time on someone else’s boat is a great idea.  It will give you a sense of what it’s like.  Take some friends or family with you.  If you plan on boating with them in the future, then it’s a good idea to see how they feel in the marine environment.  I think anyone that’s never been on a boat before always worries about whether or not they will get seasick.  This is a good way to find out.

Something I’ve never gotten a chance to do with my own boat, is to go boating with dolphins.  I’ve seen videos and pictures of dolphins jumping through the wake of boats as they push through the waves.  But, given that I sail on Lake Huron, there’s not much chance of that happening to me near my home port.  But, there are adventure tours you can take in Florida on Naples Bay precisely that go looking for dolphins.  Believe me, it’s on my to-do list for the next time I’m down south.

If you’ve never boated much before, and plan on doing one of these Florida boat tours, then you should check with the tour operator to find out if you should bring a few things.  Remember, that air temperature on the water is generally five to ten degrees colder than it is on land.  So dress appropriately.  Don’t forget the food either.  Being on the open water seems to make everyone hungry.  At least on our boat it does.  We can’t seem to get more than five minutes from the dock without the kids raiding the galley.

So, if you get a chance be sure to take advantage of the amazing boating experiences that can be found in Florida.  And also remember, that being out on the water is a privelage for everyone.  Take care of the marine environment as if it was your own home.  And, make sure your local politicians know how important it is to you that the waters stay open, clean and accessible to future generations of boaters.