SHOALING NOTICES

***Shoaling Restrictions***


March 10, 2025

The cutterhead dredge E.W. Ellefson will be working the Lake Worth Inlet during the months of March and April. Due to the narrow inlet and strong currents in conjunction with the pipeline gear and anchoring buoys, the following restrictions will apply to all inbound and outbound ship traffic to reduce the risk of collision and groundings.

Daylight restrictions may be enforced for all vessels over 450’ feet during dredging operations. Daylight and slack water restrictions will be determined on a case by case basis depending upon the location of the dredge and anchor buoys, and the strength of the Gulfstream.

Single screw vessels over 450 ft may be delayed or restricted from entering at night until the dredge is able to move all pipeline or dredge material within the entrance channel, or if gear occupies more than ¼ of the turning basin. This includes all buoys and wires within the channel markers. Ships may have to anchor until the dredge is clear and safe for transit. Additional tugs may be necessary for maneuvering within the turning basin.

The 730’ ft. Margaritaville at Sea must have the Inner and Entrance Channels completely clear of all dredge and pipeline material before transit. If any gear protrudes into the channel, or if the pipeline gear occupies more than ¼ of the turning basin, the Margaritaville will need to delay entry or departure until the channel is clear.

All vessels within the above parameters should keep in close contact with the Pilots regarding these new restrictions.

Please contact us if you have any further questions at 561-845-2628.