Anchorage Reviews | Fantasy Island

Review Now

These are observations from the boating community. Waterway Guide information is verified regularly and all efforts will be made to validate any new updates submitted here. Thank you for taking the time to share comments about your experience.

Waterway Guide reserves the option of editing reviews and comments for grammar, clarity and the removal of defamatory or potentially slanderous language. When appropriate, reviews are forwarded to businesses for response prior to being made public. We will make every effort to be objective and impartial when posting reviews, but do not publicize details of disputes between parties.

Thanks for your valuable feedback!

Fantasy Island

Location: Tampa Bay
Lat / Lon: N 27° 52.141' / W 082° 25.524'
Depth: 13-15 feet
Description:
Small spoil island
NOTE: Per Florida Statute 327.4109
The owner or operator of a vessel or floating structure may not anchor or moor such that the nearest approach of the anchored or moored vessel or floating structure is:
1. Within 150 feet of any marina, boat ramp, boatyard, or other vessel launching or loading facility;
2. Within 300 feet of a superyacht repair facility. For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "superyacht repair facility" means a facility that services or repairs a yacht with a water line of 120 feet or more in length; or
3. Within 100 feet outward from the marked boundary of a public mooring field or a lesser distance if approved by the commission upon request of a local government within which the mooring field is located. The commission may adopt rules to implement this subparagraph.
DISCLAIMER: The laws and regulations governing anchoring in Florida waters are complex and everchanging. If you plan to anchor, whether overnight or for an extended period, you should confirm whether you are in compliance with local and state requirements before committing to a location. Two sources of information that may be helpful are the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida State Statutes.

Holding:

5.00

Wind Protection:

4.00

Current Flow:

5.00

Wake Protection:

4.00

Scenic Beauty:

5.00

Ease of Shopping:

1.00

Shore Access:

1.00

Cell Service:

3.00

WiFi:

1.00

Review for Fantasy Island

Reviewed by: Alan Wagner, Passage of Time, on Jul 5, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 53'
Draft: 5.5'

Overall Rating:

5

Holding:

5

Wind Protection:

4

Current Flow:

5

Wake Protection:

4

Scenic Beauty:

5

Ease of Shopping:

1

Shore Access:

1

Cell Service:

3

WiFi:

1

A wonderful anchorage for a day or three. One of our favorite spots in Tampa Bay. It used to be a "secret," but has now been discovered. The weekend will see 20-40 boats, but they are gone by evening — usually leaving the entire place to yourself. Anchor north of the island in 12-15 feet of water. Well protected in all but East or North winds. The charts show far less depth than is the case. Approaching from the south stay close to the large spoil island and you will see no less than 12 feet or so. There is shallow water to the immediate east of the tiny spoil island, so give it some favor the west. If approaching from the south, follow what the charts show says is 5 feet. It is actually 10 feet. I routinely cruise right through the 3 foot area without a problem (I draw 5.5).

The large island is a bird sanctuary, though the SE side has a beach area. Great place to see the roseated spoonbills roosting. Frequent fishing spot for dolphins. Great sunsets. You are close to downtown Tampa but it feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. Three bars with Verizon.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer