A proposed bill aiming to restrict anchoring and mooring near Florida seaports is sparking concern among recreational boaters, who say it could compromise their safety and limit access to popular coastal destinations.

“This isn’t a workable solution,” April Smith, a longtime boater from Palmetto, told Bay News 9. “It won’t help anyone.”

The legislation—Senate Bill 594 and House Bill 795—would give Florida seaports the authority to prohibit anchoring or mooring within 1,500 to 2,500 feet of port facilities. The Senate version is sponsored by Republican Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez of Miami.

“With more recreational boaters on the water, it’s common sense to establish clear safety zones around port channels and turning basins,” Rodriguez said. “This measure is about protecting everyone—from weekend boaters to massive cargo and cruise ships.”

In the House, Republican Representative Chip LaMarca of Broward County is backing the bill and noted that the buffer zone has already been reduced from an initial 5,000 feet.

“We’ve scaled back the boundary and continue working on the language to prioritize safety while minimizing disruption for the boating community,” he said.

Smith and her husband have spent nearly seven years living aboard their 44-foot Aquila Power Catamaran, which they winter at Regatta Point Marina in Palmetto. Because the vessel spans 21.6 feet across, Smith said it doesn’t fit in many marinas—making anchoring a critical option.

“For us, anchoring might be our only safe place to spend the night,” she said. “Taking that option away within 2,500 or even 1,500 feet of a port could put us in serious danger. Maritime law gives us the right to safe anchorage—this bill would effectively remove that.”

Smith also fears the bill could limit access to some of Florida’s treasured natural areas.

“It’s going to block access to state parks,” she said. “In the Tampa area, places like Egmont Key and Fort DeSoto are popular anchor spots for fishing and weekend trips. This legislation could shut those down for boaters.”

As the couple prepares to set sail for the summer, Smith said she believes the bill goes too far.

“Boats aren’t anchoring in the shipping lanes or turning areas—this proposed setback is excessive,” she said. “We agree some distance is necessary, but this isn’t the right balance.”

The Senate bill has already cleared two committee hurdles and is awaiting a hearing in the fiscal policy committee. Its House counterpart has passed its first committee review.

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(Image credit: Southern Boating)

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