The NOAA National Data Buoy Center page for station 42098 provides real-time marine weather data—including wind speed and direction, wave height, water temperature, and atmospheric pressure. Boaters can use this information to plan safe trips, monitor changing sea conditions, and make informed go/no-go decisions before heading out. It’s a valuable tool for avoiding rough weather and ensuring a smoother, safer voyage.
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🧭 NOAA Nautical Chart
Noaa Nautical Chart
The NOAA Nautical Charts site is an essential tool for boaters, offering up-to-date, official charts that improve safety and navigation on the water. Boaters can access free Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) and use tools like the NOAA Custom Chart to create personalized PDF charts for specific routes or areas.
The site also features interactive viewers to explore coastlines, depths, hazards, and aids to navigation, helping boaters plan trips more accurately. With traditional paper charts being phased out, this site provides everything recreational and professional boaters need to stay current and safe on the water.
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🧭 Boating Safety & Education
USCG Auxiliary Public Boating Courses
Learn safe boating practices, navigation rules, and emergency procedures. Courses are taught by certified instructors.
🔗 View Courses in Your Area
⚠️ Safety Alerts & Recalls
Boating Equipment Recalls
Stay informed about safety-related recalls for boats, engines, and associated equipment issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.
🔗 Check for Recalls
📝 File a Float Plan
Float Plan Central
Before heading out on the water, file a float plan with a trusted person to increase your safety. A float plan helps rescuers locate you if needed.
🔗 Submit Your Float Plan
🗺️ Navigation Tools
U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center
Access GPS status, local notices to mariners, and other critical navigation information for safe boating.
🔗 Visit NavCen
🌤️ Weather Monitoring
Tampa Area Boating Weather
View real-time marine weather conditions including tides, wind, swell, and temperature.
🔗 Check Tampa WeatherNational Weather Service - Tampa Bay
Get official forecasts, storm alerts, and marine weather warnings for Tampa Bay and surrounding waters.
🔗 Visit NWS TampaSea Tides & Currents - Check for high tides and low tides
👀 Report Suspicious Activity
America’s Waterway Watch
A national awareness program encouraging boaters to report suspicious behavior on or near the water.
🔗 Learn More or Submit a Tip