Recently, we asked some of our local boat customers which sources they usually use when they need a marine forecast for the Port Canaveral area. Based on their responses, we have compiled a list of our top 3 go-to sources for a solid Florida marine forecast.
We hope you find our list useful – Happy boating!
National Data Buoy Center
Especially useful for off-shore trips, the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) provides actual conditions and recorded observations logged by buoys located off the coast. You can even view photos taken the same day by a buoy located, for instance, off the coast of Port Canaveral.
NDBC provides the most detailed report of wind and wave conditions for your targeted local area. We recommend this source for cruisers and sailors who want a truly comprehensive marine forecast, complete with a detailed list of previous observations.
SailFlow – “The ultimate sailing weather resource.”
For casual cruisers, sailors, windsurfers, and kite boarders, we recommend using SailFlow as your go-to source for wind conditions on the water. Before you head offshore through the Canaveral Lock, or hit the Banana River for some sporting, type in the zip code for your local area to view a detailed report of local wind conditions.
The SailFlow interface is clear and easy to understand. Depending on the option you toggle, you’ll be able to see wind observations, forecasts, water surface temperature, precipitation radar, or even cloud cover via satellite.
Wunderground – Weather Underground
Weather Underground makes our top 3 because it provides a detailed snapshot of local and surrounding conditions all on one page. There’s no excessive scrolling or clicking around to find what you need – most of what you need is all in one place, displayed in an easy-to-navigate format.
Bear in mind that you’ll need to do a Marine & Boating Location Search to find a marine forecast; the main page of the site is more for general weather reports. View open sea buoy information & coastal water temperatures, as well as an extended forecast for your local area.