PINE ISLAND

• USPNI
• Latitude: 26.5924
• Longitude: -82.1243
• Gulf of Mexico
• Marina in US

Location: US

Pine Island is a prominent location in the United States known for its marine accessibility, primarily situated in the state of Florida. Given its location, it is well-connected to the Gulf of Mexico and is part of the larger network of waterways that support marine and port activities across the region. Here’s a detailed description and specification of Pine Island in the context of its marine port features:

Description

Location:

• Pine Island is located in Lee County, Florida.
• It is the largest island in Florida’s west coast and is nestled between mainland Florida and the barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva to the west.

Geographical Importance:

• The island is strategically placed with direct access to Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve. This offers a pristine environment for marine activities.
• The area is recognized for its rich marine biodiversity, providing a crucial habitat for various species.

Specifications

Port Facilities:

• Marinas: The island hosts numerous marinas, such as St. James City Marina, Four Winds Marina, and Pineland Marina. These facilities offer docking, fueling, maintenance, and other services for vessels.
• Boat Ramps: There are several public and private boat ramps to facilitate the easy launching and retrieval of boats.
• Harbors: The harbors in Pine Island are typically safe and well-sheltered, providing secure anchorages for a variety of vessels ranging from small fishing boats to larger yachts.

Depth and Tidal Information:

• Channel Depth: Navigational channels around Pine Island are well-marked and are typically dredged to accommodate vessels with varying drafts. The average depth can vary but usually supports medium-draft boats.
• Tidal Range: The tidal range in Pine Island is relatively moderate and suitable for most maritime activities. Detailed charts and local tidal information are available to mariners to ensure safe navigation.

Navigation Aids:

• There are numerous buoys, beacons, and markers that aid navigation around Pine Island and its connecting waterways. These are maintained by the United States Coast Guard.

Transportation and Connectivity:

• Road Access: Pine Island is accessible by road via Pine Island Road, offering connectivity to mainland Florida and nearby cities such as Cape Coral and Fort Myers.
• Waterway Access: The island's marinas and harbors provide direct waterway access to the Gulf of Mexico, facilitating both recreational and commercial marine traffic.

Commercial Activity:

• Fishing: The waters around Pine Island are popular for commercial and recreational fishing. The area is known for species such as tarpon, snook, redfish, and trout.
• Tourism: The island's pristine environment and serene waters attract a significant number of tourists and boating enthusiasts, supporting a vibrant local economy.

Environmental Considerations:

• Pine Island and its surrounding waters are part of conservation efforts to protect the aquatic ecosystem, particularly within the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve.

In summary, Pine Island offers well-rounded marine port facilities capable of supporting a variety of maritime activities. It stands out for its excellent natural harbors, strategic location, and comprehensive port services, making it a key point for marine transportation and recreational boating on Florida’s west coast.