Reviews: Manatee Pocket

Leave the intracoastal at St Lucie crossing and follow the St. Lucie channel west to marker R"6A". Then follow marked Manatee Pocket channel, avoiding the markers in the center at the entrance which mark a patch of seagrass. A 10ft dredged channel is well marked to the south end of the Pocket. Anchor in 5 1/2 to 6 ft. in the wide area between Mariner Cay and Pirates Cove Marina or in 5 ft. beyond Pirates Cove. Tie up dinghy at small park dock south of Pirates Cove. Pocket is enforced no wake zone so comfortable anchoring. Four marinas and five waterfront restaurants in Pocket. Seafood store, restaurants, marine consignment store one block. Two malls with major groceries, Ace hardware, banks, clothing one mile from waterfront. Former West Marine has relocated away from water.

NOTE: Per Florida Statute 327.4109

The owner or operator of a vessel or floating structure may not anchor or moor such that the nearest approach of the anchored or moored vessel or floating structure is:

1. Within 150 feet of any marina, boat ramp, boatyard, or other vessel launching or loading facility;
2. Within 300 feet of a superyacht repair facility. For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "superyacht repair facility" means a facility that services or repairs a yacht with a water line of 120 feet or more in length; or
3. Within 100 feet outward from the marked boundary of a public mooring field or a lesser distance if approved by the commission upon request of a local government within which the mooring field is located. The commission may adopt rules to implement this subparagraph.

DISCLAIMER: The laws and regulations governing anchoring in Florida waters are complex and everchanging. If you plan to anchor, whether overnight or for an extended period, you should confirm whether you are in compliance with local and state requirements before committing to a location. Two sources of information that may be helpful are the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida State Statutes.