The Palm Beach Harbor Pilots' Association issued draft restrictions for Lake Worth Inlet, affecting vessel traffic to and from the Port of Palm Beach. Recent soundings show moderate shoaling from passing storms and low-pressure systems. Inbound vessels are restricted to the maximum operating draft of 32 feet at high water slack and 29 feet at low water. Vessels arriving within 3 feet of the maximum allowable draft for the Port of Palm Beach will be restricted to transiting at high water slack. All drafts are for salt water. Vessels carrying petroleum products are reduced to 31 feet at high water slack and 28 feet at low water slack.
Be advised that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' widening project would increase the safety factor for inbound vessels and recreational vessels, and decrease year-round shoaling restrictions.
For more information, contact the Palm Beach Harbor Pilots' Association at (561) 845-2628 or PBPilots@aol.com.