ICW Boat Trip - NY to Florida Ep26 - Lake Okeechobee

Our intracoastal waterway trip finally takes us to “Lake O” through the center of Florida. We are nearing the finish line for this eastern loop trip and take the shortcut through the St Lucie canal that shaves a couple hundred miles off our trip (avoiding the Florida Keys) as we make our way from New York to Fort Myers/Cape Coral area via the Caloosahatchee river. We have to go through a couple locks on this day from Stuart to More Haven (St Lucie lock and Mayaka lock) as we prepare for the lake crossing and finding a safe anchorage as we await the lock opening at Morehaven lock.
Follow Captain Tom and Admiral Brigitt as we travel the 1700+ miles from NY to Florida on our motor yacht “Happy Ours”, a 2006 Meridian Sport Bridge.
Filmed in July 2022.
Get 10% off boating supplies at Boat Gear USA! Use promo code HAPPYOURS @ boatgearusa.com/?bg_ref=yCAHP...

Пікірлер: 111

  • @TOPDadAlpha
    @TOPDadAlpha Жыл бұрын

    Great video. As a south florida boater who makes this voyage frequently.... 3 things to remember. ALWAYS check the lake depth before departure. Lake Okee runs 10-12 feet on average. The larger your craft the more import this becomes. I have a 63' with a 5 foot draft. Absolutely zero room for error. If you run a larger craft the slower the better not to push your stern/props further down. Second thing to remember is to wear your life vests in the locks. Lock Masters have zero tolerance for missing this requirement. Last is to check the weather on the lake. High winds and /or rain squalls can be dangerous on the lake (pushing you off the sometimes narrow channel). Safe sailing everyone.

  • @JKevinWilson
    @JKevinWilson Жыл бұрын

    Refreshing to watch a cruising video without overdubbed music. Love the real sounds.

  • @ralphholiman7401
    @ralphholiman7401 Жыл бұрын

    I haven't taken a boat through the Okeechobee Canal in twenty years. Your video brought it all back! Thanks!

  • @REDRACER400
    @REDRACER400 Жыл бұрын

    I’ve been a sail powered sailor for many yrs, but there is just something very peaceful and calming watching your videos which i have enjoyed.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    I’m hoping to get some real sailing experience soon. Being able to travel without using fuel is quite rewarding in itself.

  • @scotthall3816

    @scotthall3816

    5 ай бұрын

    I agree 👍💯 very nice and peaceful ☺️ very wonderful 👍 I injoy the traveling also but for sure 😁 the videos are very calming.

  • @notbassnectar
    @notbassnectar9 ай бұрын

    I wish you'd do another canal trip like this. I enjoy seeing all the sights on your journey!

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    9 ай бұрын

    We will soon be returning to the east coast. Stick around!

  • @rodfair5698
    @rodfair5698Ай бұрын

    You probably won’t see this comment as you posted your video over a year ago but, just in case I am certified by the Royal Navy, to Captain twin engine pleasure craft up to 52 feet long. It was so nice to watch your video that showed that you knew what you were doing but, were still cautious regarding not only your selves, but also other boaters

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Ай бұрын

    Of course I see your comment! I try to read every single one. Thanks so much!

  • @captnikkireefworld
    @captnikkireefworld Жыл бұрын

    Just did the trip through the Caloosahatchee Waterway for the hundredth time and it never gets old!

  • @DoubleDJ86
    @DoubleDJ86 Жыл бұрын

    I did this trip in the ‘80 on a ‘68 hull #4 a 42’ Grand Banks from Essex to Marco thanks for the awesome post! It brought me back. I’ve actually done Lake O a few times and even at night once, only once

  • @roelf8653
    @roelf8653 Жыл бұрын

    That was a beautiful cruise up the canals and across the lake. I enjoyed every minute of it.

  • @drumlover1687
    @drumlover1687 Жыл бұрын

    Maybe my favorite episode Captain! I was laughing out loud when you basically told Admiral Brigitt that her rank gives her top brass delegator authority over you. My other favorite comment, " they could care less if you fall in the river". 😂🤣

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Lol thanks!

  • @ericautry4788

    @ericautry4788

    Жыл бұрын

    Admiral looks better than captain!!!!Just kidding I love your video's!!!!

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    I would hope she would!

  • @Timelt51
    @Timelt51 Жыл бұрын

    Admiral is equivalent to a four star General. I love your videos. Both of you are great personalities and beautiful souls.

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    i took a 50 ft ocean yacht sport fisher to trumps castle New Jersey from fort myers florida

  • @kathryncrowleybryan5844
    @kathryncrowleybryan5844 Жыл бұрын

    Tyvm, I live here and have never seen the lake

  • @Ultramagaextremist
    @Ultramagaextremist Жыл бұрын

    Lucky man nice boat beautiful fun old lady. Enjoy ur life friend.

  • @grub321
    @grub321 Жыл бұрын

    Found your series fascinating and your narration excellent!

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for tagging along!

  • @jim242
    @jim242 Жыл бұрын

    Had my 100 ton license back in the 80’s went through the canals you talk about along with the Panama Canal 4 times just a beautiful ride and I enjoy the calmness in your videos looks like you both found the right partner kudos

  • @bradward9164
    @bradward9164 Жыл бұрын

    One of the coolest videos I’ve ever seen on here.gr8 job guys

  • @renebriones9581
    @renebriones9581 Жыл бұрын

    VERY NICE ! GREAT TRIP AND EXPERIENCE ! REGARDS,

  • @peterfarrell9187
    @peterfarrell9187 Жыл бұрын

    did the ICW heading north on my brothers Mainship 40 trawler. All the same marinas different prices per' some had swimming pools, usually a car to shop and go out to dinner. Into the Chesapeake Sunday morning we were the only boat moving in Norfolk. Fantastic time and this was only the start of this vessels voyages..

  • @runltdan
    @runltdan9 ай бұрын

    Great informative job on the videos…she us Laugh….! No need to look for gloves that fit, 🤣😂. My brother lived in Morehaven. Enjoy Every Day!

  • @danguiffre6752
    @danguiffre6752 Жыл бұрын

    Love the videos. I’ve been sick in bed with Covid and watching them helped a lot.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Best of luck and Feel better! Thanks for watching. Glad your enjoying them.

  • @michaeleavenson6880
    @michaeleavenson68808 ай бұрын

    Thanks for sharing. Hopefully will be taking the same trip

  • @jrac863
    @jrac863 Жыл бұрын

    Hands down one of the best videos you guys made .Really enjoyed this trip cannot wait to see the second half when you guys arrive in Cape Coral

  • @eddysantana1504
    @eddysantana1504 Жыл бұрын

    Bonito. Video.

  • @dianecrowther581
    @dianecrowther581 Жыл бұрын

    Not Lake George NY but the next best thing. The ride from stuart to okeechobee is awesome by car too.

  • @size-matters
    @size-matters Жыл бұрын

    I really hope to do the same trip some day. New York to FL

  • @timgarvey8179
    @timgarvey8179 Жыл бұрын

    Great video!!!

  • @EdEdelenbos
    @EdEdelenbos Жыл бұрын

    Another great cruise day.

  • @Ryanrock2
    @Ryanrock2 Жыл бұрын

    Very interesting video!

  • @StevenYoungcaptual
    @StevenYoungcaptual Жыл бұрын

    Really loving all your videos. 👍 Fly over your head many times looking down from my office in the nose of a B757😎

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Cool!

  • @leanneadams2549
    @leanneadams2549 Жыл бұрын

    That was great ! I never knew you could hop across the state threw locks ! Good to know for when I get my boat in about a thousand years lol. Anyways, thanks guys I enjoyed the vid !!

  • @kathryncrowleybryan5844
    @kathryncrowleybryan5844 Жыл бұрын

    I am surprised at a 14 ft drop in FL

  • @luizhairsalon3917
    @luizhairsalon3917 Жыл бұрын

    Nice trip, hope to do it someday with my toy :)

  • @colin1927
    @colin1927 Жыл бұрын

    You passed my house! I’m between the cut from 5:29 and 5:30, drive down this canal daily with my boat for fishing 😂😮

  • @thatoneguy8706
    @thatoneguy8706 Жыл бұрын

    What I would give to do a trip like that! I lived in the panhandle while serving in the Air Force 20 years ago. My wife and I play around with the idea of moving back down there. I love Kentucky but Florida weather spoiled me. Love the video’s!

  • @sirjustinlee
    @sirjustinlee Жыл бұрын

    @6:45 those are the Archimedes screws to lift water. So that farmers can water their crops period you are correct

  • @JefferyDollars
    @JefferyDollars Жыл бұрын

    Always makes my day when I see a new upload from Happy Ours! Perhaps the next big adventure you take the Mississippi up to the Great Lakes and back into NY??? 😊

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Always best to go down that river!

  • @RandomlyAwkward1
    @RandomlyAwkward1 Жыл бұрын

    Hey Tommy… another great video! We just did our first overnight in our boat down in Boca Grande. Beautiful weather for the whole excursion. You mentioned one of your engines not behaving. We had a similar issue where it ran fine but would not plane all of the sudden. Turned out to be an obstruction in the fuel filter that got stirred up somehow. Once we get more comfortable with the boat and all of the aspects of cruising, we may plan a trip East across the “Big O” and head over to Stuart. Keep the awesome videos coming!

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks! I’m hoping we figured out the rpm issue but haven’t had a chance to take her for a new test run. Hopefully later this week. Good luck in your travels!

  • @jgross8572
    @jgross8572 Жыл бұрын

    I was wondering how the hell you got to western Florida!!!! I couldn’t find this episode. Thanks

  • @MegaBait1616
    @MegaBait1616 Жыл бұрын

    It's been cold windy lousy weather lately around Cape Coral area......be well.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Sure has. I’m freezing! I must have lost my northern blood already. Lol

  • @MegaBait1616

    @MegaBait1616

    Жыл бұрын

    @@AdventuresofHappyOurs , I'm over where the hurricane hit Florida.. Only reason I can get internet is I've got a booster on my phone 📱.. Later this week should Warm back up.. Have a healthy Happy New Years..

  • @annsheridan12
    @annsheridan12 Жыл бұрын

    On the east side of Lake Okeechobee it’s the St. Lucie River and on the west side it’s the Calusahachie River.

  • @hoopoo3721
    @hoopoo3721 Жыл бұрын

    You know when it's a good trip, when a girl has her feet on the dash.

  • @dianarodriguez9783
    @dianarodriguez9783 Жыл бұрын

    If haven’t been to the keys have to head there. Key west is a blast. Nice to have the cut across but you should visit the keys great boating area.

  • @admiralbrigitt

    @admiralbrigitt

    Жыл бұрын

    We are looking forward to making that trip!

  • @user-cv4tf3us6z
    @user-cv4tf3us6z8 ай бұрын

    👍🎣⛵💯

  • @stevenmarrone1526
    @stevenmarrone1526 Жыл бұрын

    I’m dreading the day I cross that lake, those rocks out there pretty scary

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Just stay in the channels you’ll be fine

  • @jeffhallel8211
    @jeffhallel8211 Жыл бұрын

    Salboaters beware of low clearance locations on this route. There is a youtuber called Southern Star who has some good info.

  • @Mad1Mike

    @Mad1Mike

    Жыл бұрын

    Totally get that. All good info!

  • @jeffhallel8211

    @jeffhallel8211

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Mad1Mike The Port Myaca railway lift bridge is the sketchiest I have ever seen. Did you know that the capacity of Lake Okeechobee is over 1 trillion gallons? Thanks for your video, it is wonderful, the real Florida.

  • @dianecrowther581

    @dianecrowther581

    Жыл бұрын

    Lake pretty deep right now 12/22.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s good for Florida!

  • @Mad1Mike
    @Mad1Mike Жыл бұрын

    One day I will do that trip. I moved here in 1990 and my friend at the time did this every year. On big sailboats now, the Keys and Bahamas are great, but on charter boats. A smaller boat to do this trip would be a blast! I bet it got a bit cold, but no bugs. The best time to do this? Have you done it before?

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    We travelled down in July. Great time of year for it.

  • @AnthonyWalsh-tt7vx
    @AnthonyWalsh-tt7vx Жыл бұрын

    The boat will run much better in fresh water than salt

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Less corrosion in fresh water for sure but mechanically should run the same.

  • @ryd_513
    @ryd_513 Жыл бұрын

    Miss the review of your trip spreadsheet at the end of the video

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    I will be doing a full trip recap video where we analyze the spreadsheet in depth.

  • @ryd_513

    @ryd_513

    Жыл бұрын

    @@AdventuresofHappyOurs that’s gonna be great. Thanks.

  • @emerson2you
    @emerson2you Жыл бұрын

    Happy New Years 🎉

  • @SuperQdaddy
    @SuperQdaddy Жыл бұрын

    Very quiet not many boats

  • @richmiller2501
    @richmiller2501 Жыл бұрын

    Do they Charge for the Lock down there? and we know well about the Hudson as we kept a Boat at Stony Point and would travel always east going into the Sound or Atlantic to visit friends.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    No charge for the locks!

  • @StansWorld
    @StansWorld Жыл бұрын

    Not sure your set up,. But seem to me 4K rpm a 20 MPH is way to many rpms especially a dual engine set up I assume u r running Big Block 454 that should pull a higher pitch no problem My boat at 4K going 34 mph LOL..

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s a small block and 4k is a common for 20mph on this boat. My problem is I should be able to get 4800 at like 27mph. But she’s an big old girl.

  • @markbohart9435
    @markbohart9435 Жыл бұрын

    What was minimum water depth?

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    We didn’t see anything I. The channels less than 6 feet.

  • @George39280
    @George39280 Жыл бұрын

    Is there a charge to go through a lock?

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    No charge!

  • @mattmayo3539
    @mattmayo3539 Жыл бұрын

    That 35 footer can really pick up her skirt and hussle.

  • @cecilmartin5065
    @cecilmartin5065 Жыл бұрын

    Is there any trips u can hire a trip

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    What do you mean?

  • @jhanick
    @jhanick Жыл бұрын

    Is that a 341?

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes sir. 2006

  • @jhanick

    @jhanick

    Жыл бұрын

    @@AdventuresofHappyOurs I had a 2006 368. Lost it in a fire. Was a good boat.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Omg that’s horrible. Sorry to hear that.

  • @benwintfeld2983
    @benwintfeld2983 Жыл бұрын

    Tom it’s episode 25 not 26.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s 26. One was accidentally deleted so I reposted it so they appear out of order but they are there. Here is episode 25 ICW Boat Trip -NY to Florida ep25 - St. Lucie/Stuart kzread.info/dash/bejne/eYRs2Jmuetq8Y5s.html

  • @rpalmer274
    @rpalmer274 Жыл бұрын

    Must be nice to be rich

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Far from it. Work hard, work smart, live within your means and save as much as you can for retirement. I started as a blue collar union worker.

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    i have dont the trip 4 times now.. I have been to bimini... one trip .. KEY west.. one trip... NORTH CAROLINA one trip... Miami one trip

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    i live in fort myers @ the fort myers yacht basin...

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    i got lost right there 20 years ago

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    do not take the narrow morehaven canal??? man it has been years.. but some kids said go that way... little narrow canal... full of weeds

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    Seemed fine to us. Or maybe there was another section?

  • @williammiller2750
    @williammiller2750 Жыл бұрын

    We can't get boats to go the speed limit in NY. What makes you think we can get you to wear a life vest?

  • @eivindlindefjell5602
    @eivindlindefjell56025 ай бұрын

    Over 3850 rpm ?????? Omg poor boat

  • @eivindlindefjell5602
    @eivindlindefjell56025 ай бұрын

    17:22 this poles is for ship comersiale ships to lean in to for waiting area !!!! Not for small boats like yours😂😂😂

  • @fredbrillo1849
    @fredbrillo1849 Жыл бұрын

    Did you notice a yacht moored on the south side of the St Lucy canal after you passed thru the St Lucy lock, named HONEY FITZ? That was JFKs personal yacht.

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    I don’t recall but I’ll look at video again to see if I caught it.

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    i have 34 ft searay sundancer

  • @mikebradley4245
    @mikebradley4245 Жыл бұрын

    you should know , you cannot tie up to fender systems,,,

  • @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    @AdventuresofHappyOurs

    Жыл бұрын

    I can find no regulations, nor signs specifically restricting it. the lock master said nothing to us about it in the morning. Considering the lock was closed and we left on first opening, I see no harm in it. many locks we have been through permit tie ups along the walls immediately outside the spillways.