Gulf of Mexico marinas
The Gulf of Mexico offers sandy islands, lagoons and coastal towns, with long passages between the shores of the United States, Mexico and Cuba.
Gulf of Mexico
Along the northern Gulf of Mexico, sandy barrier islands separate lagoons from the open sea. Off western Florida, sailing can take you between islands and inland bays, while crossings to Mexico or Cuba may take several days. Ashore are resort towns, fishing villages, nature parks and historic Mexican ports.
Spring is often favourable for passages, although cold fronts remain possible. Summers are hot and humid, with frequent thunderstorms; hurricane season runs from June through November. In autumn and winter, cold fronts bring strong northerly winds and rough seas as far south as the Mexican coast. Northern waters can be cold and foggy in winter.
Coastal routes depend on depths, conditions at lagoon entrances and bridge clearances. Offshore, shipping traffic and oil and gas platforms require attention. In the eastern Gulf, the shifting Loop Current and its eddies affect a yacht’s speed and track.
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Sailing character
Island hopping · 1
- United States
Open coast · 1
- United States
Tides · 1
- United States
What to explore ashore
Coastal nature · 1
- United States
Islands · 1
- United States
Maritime heritage · 1
- United States
Watch out
Bridge clearances · 1
- United States — Western Florida, including the Big Bend, Florida Panhandle and Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, TexasOn inland waterways, check clearances and drawbridge operating rules for the chosen route.
Sea fog · 1
- United StatesIn cooler months, fog can hinder harbour approaches, particularly along the northern Gulf Coast.
Shallow lagoons · 1
- United StatesBehind barrier islands, water may become much shallower outside the channel; shifting sandbars can affect entrances.
Marinas on the map
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Countries in Gulf of Mexico
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