Naples Florida Boating, Gulf Access. Gordon Pass, Wiggins Pass.

The Nautical Scene

If you are moving to Naples and are a boater, my wish for you is that you experience as much enjoyment boating on these waters as I did when I was a boy growing up near the water. Naples can be a Paradise for the boater and fisherman. This article will provide some general information about boating, but before you choose your property, you and your REALTOR should thoroughly research the different nautical possibilities.

Local Boat Docks and Ramps

Naples and the surrounding areas provide great boating for every type of vessel from canoes and kayaks to yachts of over 100 feet. Because of the great variety of waters, however, there are several things a boater must take into consideration when searching for property. Two of the main issues are the draft (depth of water) and clearance (the height of bridges).

There are three main Passes in Naples that lead to the major boating spots: Gordon Pass, Doctor's Pass, and Wiggins Pass:

Gordon Pass

This is the Southernmost Pass.
The Pass is the main access to Gulf. Gordon Pass is also closest to the Gulf.
The Pass also leads to Naples Bay, Marco Island, Ten Thousand Islands, Gordon River and several other Passes (for shallower draft vessels) between Naples and Marco Island.
It is safe for small vessels as the Pass is protected even when the Gulf is rough.
Communities in this "no bridge" area are: Port Royal, Aqualane Shores, Eastern Shores (Royal Harbor, Oyster Bay, Golden Shores), Windstar, Haldeman Creek and Olde Naples. These are some of the most prestigious waterfront communities in Naples.
There are also numerous homes/condos further up the Gordon River where access to the Gulf is possible. A recent gain for boaters has been the improved clearance at the new bridges on US 41. The clearance has been improved by four feet.

Doctors Pass

This is known as the "Middle" Pass.
The Pass provides quick access to the Gulf
The area provides excellent fishing.
It leads to the Gulf and to limited amount of Bay area.
There are a limited number of properties in this "no bridge" area.
The bridges in this area are high and allow for substantial clearance.
Communities that border Doctors Pass are Park Shore, The Moorings and Coquina.

Wiggins Pass

This is the Northernmost Pass being north of Vanderbilt Beach.
There is slower access to the Gulf.
This Pass has had draft problems, however, shallow water boating and fishing can be superb.
The Pelican Isle Yacht Club is located in this area.
Recent efforts have been made to maintain the depth in the Pass. Check with your Realtor for details.

Sailing Clubs, Private

Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, 239-774-0424
Naples Yacht Club, 239-262-6647
Pelican Isle Yacht Club, 239-566-1606

by Bob Koch, REALTOR

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