At the very beginning of the year, everyone was abuzz with the news of a massive collection of seaweed that was making it's way across hundreds of miles of ocean, bound for the Gulf of Mexico. After March, there seemed to be a lull in coverage of the blob. So let's see how it has affected Florida.
It is important to note that the entire 30A coastline has essentially been spared any effects of the blob. Our beaches are clear for the most part, with the very occasional little collection here and there. However, if you weren't specifically looking for it, you wouldn't even notice.
A very brief search on Google can be incredibly misleading. Headlines blare a dark outcome, talking about millions of pounds of rotting sargassum that will be deposited on our beautiful shores. The summer looks bleak, from these reports. However, a more thorough read of multiple articles, not just the top 5, bring more information to light.
Firstly, the blob, dubbed the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, is still very much at sea. While some parts of southern Florida have seen some deposits of the the seaweed, the main body of the blob is floating out at sea.
Secondly, it is extremely difficult to pinpoint exactly where in the ocean the blob is. Most information of the sargassum is weeks old, and doesn't provide specifics, simply stating that it's on its way. This makes it confusing when tourists try to research it's affect on their desired vacation spots.
It's also important to note that many of the photos depicting huge piles of rotting seaweed are post-dated from around 2-3 years ago, so be sure t check when, and where, the pictures, are sourced from.
This forces us to work with what we ourselves can directly observe for our area. With regards to Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, Miramar Beach, Destin, and Fort Walton Beach, the Sargassum has not affected the beach quality. We will continue to track the progress of the Blob as it continues on its journey, but for now rest at ease knowing that there is no signs of it as yet.
As a result, it's ok to plan your 30a Vacation. Make sure to check out 30a Pontoon Rental in Santa Rosa Beach near Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Grayton Beach, Alys Beach, Inlet Beach, etc www.30apontoon.com where we offer fabulous 150 and 200 hp tritoons, yacht charters, dolphin cruises, and fishing charters.