🧭 Entrance Channel Dimensions / Project Depth Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 Entrance channel: 400 ft wide; federal project depth 40 ft; operational draft ~40 ft. 95% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Pilotage Statutory Requirement Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 Florida Statute §310.141: vessels entering/leaving ports must have a licensed state pilot aboard, except listed exemptions. 95% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Security Zone / Access Restrictions Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 33 CFR 165.703 establishes a permanent Seaport Manatee security zone; permission from the COTP required to enter/transit; no loiter/anchor. 95% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Channel Marking / Aids Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 Channel is marked by a 127.9° lighted range and lighted buoys (federal aids). 92% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Recent Aton Discrepancy Reported (Example) Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 USCG LNM (07/10/2026) lists Port Manatee Channel Outbound Range Rear Passing Light (LLNR 22559) as STRUCT DEST (off/ destroyed). 92% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Shoaling / Channel Intersection Caution Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 Shoaling where the Tampa Bay and Manatee Harbor federal channels meet; may restrict transits and cause delays. 90% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Official Chart Reference Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 NOAA bench mark sheet for 'PORT MANATEE' references NOAA Chart 11416 for Port Manatee area. 90% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment
🧭 Local Current Set Near Entrance Official Source · Verified Jul 02, 2026 Outside the entrance channel the current sets east (Coast Pilot). 88% Confidence ✓ Confirm 💬 Comment