Captain Margie and I wrote an article for the American Sailing Association October 2011 Newsletter;

Featured Charter Destination
An Easygoing Exploration of Biscayne Bay
By USCG/ASA Captains Margie and Harold Ochstein

On the southeast edge of Florida at the foot of the modern, vibrant city of Miami lies Biscayne Bay. Sailing down the bay is your entryway into Biscayne National Park and the Florida Keys, a 170-mile chain of islands stretching off to the south and southwest of mainland Florida. The calm, pristine waters of the bay are protected from the ocean by the coral reefs and the island chain beginning with Key Biscayne. These are a few of our favorite spots; but wherever you go, the water is clear, the wildlife is abundant and the pace is relaxed.

Key Biscayne
Your journey into Biscayne Bay begins once you pass under the MacArthur Causeway. The waterfront high-rises of Miami are close by on your right and Key Biscayne with its marinas and anchorages appears on your left. You can anchor off the west side of Key Biscayne for a comfortable night in the prevailing easterlies. At the south end of Key Biscayne you will find No Name Harbor located in Bill Baggs State Park.

This is a very popular spot for cruisers waiting to cross the Gulfstream to the Bahamas. During the day tie to the seawall, or anchor in the harbor overnight. Chat with sailors from around the world, invite them aboard for a sundowner and share your stories. After walking along the park’s nature trails, take a tour of the working lighthouse built in 1825. Spend some time at the beach on the Atlantic Ocean side of the island, then stop for a drink or have dinner at the Boaters Grill. Read the rest of the article