I am considering installing one of two fuel cleaning systems on my 466 Carver. First, Algae-X and second duel primary (RACOR) filter. Does anyone have comments on these two options? It would seem a duel filter with vacuum gage would be preferable.
Thanks
Joe Bechtol

I am considering installing one of two fuel cleaning systems on my 466 Carver. First, Algae-X and second duel primary (RACOR) filter. Does anyone have comments on these two options? It would seem a duel filter with vacuum gage would be preferable.
Thanks
Joe Bechtol

Which marina in Ft. Myers is closer to grocery store. Legacy or Municipal? Also what is cost/foot at Legacy—any Boat US discounts?
Judy and Gene Koetitz
aboard Lo Que Se A
Great Harbour 37

Neither the Municipal or Legacy are at all close to a Grocery Store. In both cases they are about 4 miles away.
Marv
Aboard – Dee Light

Which marina in Ft. Myers is closer to grocery store. Legacy or Municipal? Also what is cost/foot at Legacy—any Boat US discounts?
Judy and Gene Koetitz
aboard Lo Que Se A
Great Harbour 37

Neither the Municipal or Legacy are at all close to a Grocery Store. In both cases they are about 4 miles away.
Marv
Aboard – Dee Light

A Friend and I are planning to come to Punta Gorda area for a couple of weeks of sailing in Mid February of 2007. I do have the "Cruising Guide to Western Florida" Second Edition by Claiborne S. Young I also have A Guide to Anchorages in Southwest Florida First Edition, plus, #15F Loran C map and Chart Kit by BBA titled Florida West Coast and the Key Region #8. A close friend of mine gave these to me as he used them during the mid 1990's to sail up and down the west coast of Florida.

My first questions is this, should I get updated maps and an Anchorage guide? I have a 26 Classic Yacht with only a 3ft. 1 inch draft, fixed keel, and a mast height above the water of 35ft. which is reading the current articles and viewing the maps we should not have many problems on water depth. My second question is where would you suggest that we putin and where is a secure place to park my trailer and tow vehicle while out sailing for about two weeks?
Thank you in advance for your assistance and advice.
Sincerely,
Tom

Tom
Don't dare use the second edition of my Cruising Guide to Western Florida. That version is now horribly out of date. The current volume is the sixth edition. There have been many, many changes, some involving major changes to channels, since the time of the second edition.
Claiborne Young

Dear Tom,
You really should have recent charts for Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island area. We were hit by Hurricane Charlie in 2004 which changed the seascape of this area. Many of the day beacons have been moved and renumbered.

The good news. Fisherman's Village marina is back up and running and filling up with visitors. The City of Punta Gorda is building a municipal marina which will be opening soon.. They also have a public boat launch with parking. The old site of the Holiday Inn has started work on a new resort and yacht basin welcoming visitors to the area. The city is also exploring a managed mooring field and dingy dock with facilities for cruisers but still plans to have anchoring available for those wishing to drop the hook. It's a very exciting time for the rebuilding of our town. Please come and enjoy the area.
Jo-Ann M. Lakes

A Friend and I are planning to come to Punta Gorda area for a couple of weeks of sailing in Mid February of 2007. I do have the "Cruising Guide to Western Florida" Second Edition by Claiborne S. Young I also have A Guide to Anchorages in Southwest Florida First Edition, plus, #15F Loran C map and Chart Kit by BBA titled Florida West Coast and the Key Region #8. A close friend of mine gave these to me as he used them during the mid 1990's to sail up and down the west coast of Florida.

My first questions is this, should I get updated maps and an Anchorage guide? I have a 26 Classic Yacht with only a 3ft. 1 inch draft, fixed keel, and a mast height above the water of 35ft. which is reading the current articles and viewing the maps we should not have many problems on water depth. My second question is where would you suggest that we putin and where is a secure place to park my trailer and tow vehicle while out sailing for about two weeks?
Thank you in advance for your assistance and advice.
Sincerely,
Tom

Tom
Don't dare use the second edition of my Cruising Guide to Western Florida. That version is now horribly out of date. The current volume is the sixth edition. There have been many, many changes, some involving major changes to channels, since the time of the second edition.
Claiborne Young

Dear Tom,
You really should have recent charts for Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island area. We were hit by Hurricane Charlie in 2004 which changed the seascape of this area. Many of the day beacons have been moved and renumbered.

The good news. Fisherman's Village marina is back up and running and filling up with visitors. The City of Punta Gorda is building a municipal marina which will be opening soon.. They also have a public boat launch with parking. The old site of the Holiday Inn has started work on a new resort and yacht basin welcoming visitors to the area. The city is also exploring a managed mooring field and dingy dock with facilities for cruisers but still plans to have anchoring available for those wishing to drop the hook. It's a very exciting time for the rebuilding of our town. Please come and enjoy the area.
Jo-Ann M. Lakes

Hello,
We are anchored in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL awaiting the next window to cross over to the Bahamas. Maybe you have noticed us, we are a Wharram design catamaran called Fourth World. We are wondering if anyone else out here will be leaving on the next window for the Bahamas. Contact us at my email n.curran@comcast.net, or you can stop by and say Hey.
Southwinds blowing soon?
Nancy

Hello,
We are anchored in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL awaiting the next window to cross over to the Bahamas. Maybe you have noticed us, we are a Wharram design catamaran called Fourth World. We are wondering if anyone else out here will be leaving on the next window for the Bahamas. Contact us at my email n.curran@comcast.net, or you can stop by and say Hey.
Southwinds blowing soon?
Nancy

Greetings and Happy New Year! We will be starting the Loop in June and will spend Dec and Jan in S Florida. What marinas would list members recommend for the Keys during this period? We will be arranging for a slip well ahead of arrival and would like to pay monthly fees. We also prefer a nice beach and quite spot as opposed to city marinas. Thanks!
George, Cathy and Ashton Worley
Currently out fitting Waveaway
Alexandria, VA

We too enjoy some quiet beaches and they are hard to find in the keys unless you take your tender out to smaller islands. Two of our favorite places are Duck Cay Resort near Marathon – it is very small but has terrific amenities with five swimming pools and one of them is just for adults!! Secondly we love the Galleon Marina in Key West Bight. It has a pool and floating docks. Once in Key West you can take day trips out to places like Boca Grande Key where you will probably have the beach to yourself on weekdays. The town is noisy however, but the marina is nice. Hope this helps.
All the best – enjoy.
Fowler's aboard "WinSue"
Carver-444

Greetings and Happy New Year! We will be starting the Loop in June and will spend Dec and Jan in S Florida. What marinas would list members recommend for the Keys during this period? We will be arranging for a slip well ahead of arrival and would like to pay monthly fees. We also prefer a nice beach and quite spot as opposed to city marinas. Thanks!
George, Cathy and Ashton Worley
Currently out fitting Waveaway
Alexandria, VA

We too enjoy some quiet beaches and they are hard to find in the keys unless you take your tender out to smaller islands. Two of our favorite places are Duck Cay Resort near Marathon – it is very small but has terrific amenities with five swimming pools and one of them is just for adults!! Secondly we love the Galleon Marina in Key West Bight. It has a pool and floating docks. Once in Key West you can take day trips out to places like Boca Grande Key where you will probably have the beach to yourself on weekdays. The town is noisy however, but the marina is nice. Hope this helps.
All the best – enjoy.
Fowler's aboard "WinSue"
Carver-444

Hi again,
Just wondering how the trip across the Okeechobee is for depths and the shoaling on the ICW is where we come out to the Atlantic – never did the trip, leaving mid January and would love some local knowledge. Our S-2 draws 5’. Thanks much!
Mo

Depths across lake have not been a problem. At the eastern end of your trip as you reach Stuart you may want to travel a mid to high tides as there are areas that can run skinny as you reach Stuart just before your first bridge.
WinSue
Carver444

Hi again,
Just wondering how the trip across the Okeechobee is for depths and the shoaling on the ICW is where we come out to the Atlantic – never did the trip, leaving mid January and would love some local knowledge. Our S-2 draws 5’. Thanks much!
Mo

Depths across lake have not been a problem. At the eastern end of your trip as you reach Stuart you may want to travel a mid to high tides as there are areas that can run skinny as you reach Stuart just before your first bridge.
WinSue
Carver444

We have a group of 5 boats (two 29' and three 30' cabin cruisers) headed from Florida to the Bahamas in May. We will have 5 days to spend in the Bahamas and plan to spend our first night in West End at Old Bahama Bay where we will clear Customs. We usually travel between 50 and 60 miles a day and from there, our thoughts are to cruise to Lucaya and overnight at Port Lucaya Marina. At that point, we do not see any other marina destinations along the southern side of Grand Bahama Island going East so we thought about taking Grand Lucayan Canal to the northern side but don't see any marinas on the northern side going East either. Our thoughts are to maybe go to Great Sale Cay or Fox Town on our way to Green Turtle Cay but we do not see any marinas in either place. Are we missing marinas that would be nice places to spend the night on Grand Bahama Island along the way to Green Turtle Cay? Thanks for any information you can share with us!
DM

Great Sale Cay is a great anchorage and the trip from there to Green Turtle is an easy run. We prefer to go to West End (a fabulous place) and then on to Great Sale and then to Green Turtle. We found the Lucayan area too commercial. Have not been north through Lucayan Canal. FYI
WinSue
Carver 444

We covered this route with two boats 40 and 50 feet from Miami this past summer. You can get to Great Sale Cay from West End and stop for lunch but will need to continue at least as far as Spanish Cay to find a marina. We made it as far as Great Turtle from West end in one cruising day, but it is more like 100 n miles. Spanish Cay is about 15 nm closer to West End which makes it an 85 mile day. The Bank can be quite calm so if the weather is good you should have little problem. The Cruising Guide to Abacos by Steve Dodge is a good reference for this trip.
TM

We have a group of 5 boats (two 29' and three 30' cabin cruisers) headed from Florida to the Bahamas in May. We will have 5 days to spend in the Bahamas and plan to spend our first night in West End at Old Bahama Bay where we will clear Customs. We usually travel between 50 and 60 miles a day and from there, our thoughts are to cruise to Lucaya and overnight at Port Lucaya Marina. At that point, we do not see any other marina destinations along the southern side of Grand Bahama Island going East so we thought about taking Grand Lucayan Canal to the northern side but don't see any marinas on the northern side going East either. Our thoughts are to maybe go to Great Sale Cay or Fox Town on our way to Green Turtle Cay but we do not see any marinas in either place. Are we missing marinas that would be nice places to spend the night on Grand Bahama Island along the way to Green Turtle Cay? Thanks for any information you can share with us!
DM

Great Sale Cay is a great anchorage and the trip from there to Green Turtle is an easy run. We prefer to go to West End (a fabulous place) and then on to Great Sale and then to Green Turtle. We found the Lucayan area too commercial. Have not been north through Lucayan Canal. FYI
WinSue
Carver 444

We covered this route with two boats 40 and 50 feet from Miami this past summer. You can get to Great Sale Cay from West End and stop for lunch but will need to continue at least as far as Spanish Cay to find a marina. We made it as far as Great Turtle from West end in one cruising day, but it is more like 100 n miles. Spanish Cay is about 15 nm closer to West End which makes it an 85 mile day. The Bank can be quite calm so if the weather is good you should have little problem. The Cruising Guide to Abacos by Steve Dodge is a good reference for this trip.
TM

I am looking for some sound advice on a direst route from Glouster, VA ( York River ) to Pamlico River ( Washington). I have purchased Skipper Bob and Capt. Bob, anchorage and marina guides and have the Gulf Coast cruising guides for the ICW.
The boat I'll be bring down is a 32' Carver aft cabin, twin gas 260 hp. I will only make this trip once so I don't want to go to the expense of purchasing the Chesapeake Bay guides. The boat will be equipped with GPS and a chip for the Chesapeake, but nothing past Mile 0 ICW.

Looking at the charts I see lots of big ship traffic lanes and the Norfolk harbor with the numerous channel markers looks intimidating at the least. I will carry a full fuel load ( 180 gals ) but will be single handing the boat and docking for fuel and for traveling at night is going to be difficult. If I were making the trip in the summer, I wouldn't be so nervous, but at this time of the year when the weather is constantly changing, I am starting to get the willies. I wouldn't be making this trip now if I could postpone until later, but the boat has to be moved to settle an estate and the only affordable dockage I can find near and accessible to my home , is in Washington, NC.

Any advice would be welcome and appreciated.
Thanks and Happy New Year to all,
Truitt Early

I am looking for some sound advice on a direst route from Glouster, VA ( York River ) to Pamlico River ( Washington). I have purchased Skipper Bob and Capt. Bob, anchorage and marina guides and have the Gulf Coast cruising guides for the ICW.
The boat I'll be bring down is a 32' Carver aft cabin, twin gas 260 hp. I will only make this trip once so I don't want to go to the expense of purchasing the Chesapeake Bay guides. The boat will be equipped with GPS and a chip for the Chesapeake, but nothing past Mile 0 ICW.

Looking at the charts I see lots of big ship traffic lanes and the Norfolk harbor with the numerous channel markers looks intimidating at the least. I will carry a full fuel load ( 180 gals ) but will be single handing the boat and docking for fuel and for traveling at night is going to be difficult. If I were making the trip in the summer, I wouldn't be so nervous, but at this time of the year when the weather is constantly changing, I am starting to get the willies. I wouldn't be making this trip now if I could postpone until later, but the boat has to be moved to settle an estate and the only affordable dockage I can find near and accessible to my home , is in Washington, NC.

Any advice would be welcome and appreciated.
Thanks and Happy New Year to all,
Truitt Early

We live on the West coast of Florida just north of the Punta Gorda. We would like to find a sailboat with a mast height that will enable us to make a annual spring commute to the Chesapeake. Just how tall a mast can we get through the Okeechobee Water Way? There seems to be some dispute or at least a difference of opinion.
At this point we are looking at at a 34 foot Catalina with a draft of 4 feet 2 inches and a mast height of 49 feet. Is this going to work??
Thanks
Willy in Cape Haze, FL

The railroad lift bridge just east of the Port Mayaca Lock on the St. Lucie canal has a reported 49’ vertical clearance in the up position. You need to very sure of your mast height. I’ve seen a sail boat go under with it healed over using a dingy tied to the top of the mast.
Harvey

We live on the West coast of Florida just north of the Punta Gorda. We would like to find a sailboat with a mast height that will enable us to make a annual spring commute to the Chesapeake. Just how tall a mast can we get through the Okeechobee Water Way? There seems to be some dispute or at least a difference of opinion.
At this point we are looking at at a 34 foot Catalina with a draft of 4 feet 2 inches and a mast height of 49 feet. Is this going to work??
Thanks
Willy in Cape Haze, FL

The railroad lift bridge just east of the Port Mayaca Lock on the St. Lucie canal has a reported 49’ vertical clearance in the up position. You need to very sure of your mast height. I’ve seen a sail boat go under with it healed over using a dingy tied to the top of the mast.
Harvey

Question: Who can legally come aboard your boat?

OK we give up, what does Florida do with boaters who are residents of  and have their vessels documented from states which do not have sales taxes or do not levy taxes on used boats?  Are they required to re- register, re-title, and re-document their boat in Florida even if it  isn't or will not be their state of principal use (and/or if they can  document/prove that the vessel is used in another state more than in  Florida)???

Note:  There are several states which do not have sales taxes, and  some which do not levy sales taxes on used vessels.  Does Florida  declare that anyone who stays in the state for more than 90 days  automatically becomes a Florida resident – car title, insurance,  voting registration,  etc.???

John and Judy Gill
Two J's V
AGLCA Loopers

We found this link from the Florida Dept of Revenue that discusses use tax that we thought others might find useful. It spells out who has to pay what when and who is exempt. Might be better to read it 'from the source' rather than relying on someone elses interpretation…

http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/taxes/sut_boat_owner.html

Janet and Jeremy – MV Tardis

Islamorada (Florida Keys) Anchoring Question
Received 2/12/07

We are planning on going to the upper Keys late March and our boat draws five feet. Years ago we used to anchor off Lorelai in Islamorada and would like to go back but don't know if anything has changed. Any anchoring info (especially depth) on this area would be appreciated.
Deedee Cheek

Coconut Island (Western Florida, just north of Marco Island) Anchoring Question
Received 2/11/07

Planning a trip south in May in a boat with a 6' draft and want to know if it's possible to anchor behind coconut island with such a draft.
Pete Gladue
Rum Drinker and Emmy Lou Harris Love Slave Wannabe.

Pete:
Coconut Island is quickly eroding into the waters of Capri Pass, ever since the state of Florida removed the Australian Pines (as non-native vegetation). These trees were apparently all that were holding the isle's sands in place. I would not recommend anchoring a row boat behind Coconut Island now!
Hope that helps!
John Sullivan
Marco Island

Okeechobee Waterway Anchorages Question
Received 2/11/07

We'll be transiting the OW in late March or early April..and have never been that way before. Please, someone comment on anchorages (preferred, of course), marinas, and estimated time from Coast to Coast. We're pretty fast at 14-15K, but speed doesn't matter much with all the locks etc…so I suspect we'll go slow most of the time.
Recommendations are welcome and requested.
Jerry and Kathryn Greenhoot
M/V "Jewel"

There is a lock closing coming up which might alter you plans. Ortona Lock on the Okeechobee Waterway is scheduled to be closed for repairs. The last locking through will be 2130 or 9:30 p.m. on Sunday night, April 15 before it closes on April 16 through May 25.[See the "Okeechobee" page here on the Cruisers' Net for more info - Editor]
You should have no problem going over early April. The entire run is 155 miles from the Crossroads in Stuart to Ft Myers. At your speed you could make it in one long day. There are only 5 locks to negotiate and none are very hard. Lock tenders are usually friendly and they will provide lines for you. A common stopping place is Roland Martin's Marina in Clewiston around the mile 55 mark. Your can get fuel and walk down town to resturants or eat at the Marina which has good food. The Lake can get rough if the winds are kicking up. Water is low, but passable, just pay attention to the channel and stay in it. I find that running from Clewiston to Moore Haven is slow as there may be fishermen hiding in the bushes along the way with john boats of limited freeboard which you so not want to sink. So you need to keep your wake down.
Bill Gelpke

We did the OW last fall. Stayed at Corp of Eng at 1st lock going west can't remember name this time of day!! Made it home in Cape Coral that PM but you can tie up to dolphins or stay at Franklin Lock 12-24 bucks per night. We travel 16-18 k.
Chivy Wieland

Fort Myers Marina Question
Received 2/11/07

We will be approaching Ft. Myers, Florida around the 24th February, what are some good marina's that may or may not offer Boat U.S. discount. Any and all information would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Bob Levine
Sandpiper

Indiantown Marina (Okeechobee Waterway) Question
Received 2/10/07

We will be crossing Okeechobbe in a week or so and need a place to stay for a week. Is the Indiantown Marina decent and safe? We are not looking for a resort, just power and water.We may be leaving the boat for a couple of days.
Thanks
Jake

I have stayed at Indiantown on multiple occasions and have found it to be a pleasant stop. Not a resort, but water and elec are fine and fuel at fair price.
The folks at Stefano's Rest. Will come and pick you up if you give them a call. The marina people have the number.
Enjoy the trip and be careful of low water.
Captain Charles Richter

Ortona Lock (Okeechobee Waterway) Question
Received 2/10/07

This may be a dumb question, but I am going to ask it anyway. I noticed that the lock at Ortona on the Okeechobee Waterway is going to be closed from 4/16 to 5/25. Does this mean that there is no navigation thru the lock with the doors closed, or is it that the lock doors will remain open during this time and it possible to navigate thru it?
Thanks for being patient with my ignorance.
Gary Anderson

Hello Gary:
Not a dumb question at all. Sometimes, there are ways around closed locks.
Unfortunately, this is not the case with the Okeechobee Waterway. Whenever one of the five locks is shut down, the whole Waterway is cut, at least in regards to the full trip from Stuart to Fort Myers, or the other way around!
Claiborne

South Carolina Chart Question
Received 2/9/07

Hi,
I was wondering were do you find the charts to go thru the waterway in charleston,myrtlebeach hiltonhead area. we are wanting to take our pontoon out and can't find any maps, charts to help us navigate our way thru the intercoastal waterway any help is greatly appreciated.
Thank You
Kathy

Florida Key Cruising Question
Received 2/9/07

We will be cruising the keys for the first time.we have a 25 ft. rosborough trawler. I feel a little apprehensive , will be starting in pompano. we only draw 2.5 ft. so i would like to take the icw. would like know the best places to stop along the way.etc. etc. all and any info. will be welcome.
jeff&bonnie
aboard "Best Girl"

Big Bend Cruising Question
Received 2/9/07

Sailing vessel Trilogy (4 ft draft) looking for information on Big Bend route with stops at St. Marks, Steinhatchee, Swanee, Cedar Key and Crystal River. Home port is Bradenton and we are not looking to do an overnight. We would appreciate anything you can share.
Judy Stahle

Oriental, North Carolina – Neuse River Question
Received 2/9/07 We would love to communicate directly with anyone who has experience with the livability and quality of boating in the Oriental/New Bern, NC area. We are looking for a place to purchase a home on the water in an area not affected by the boating insurance limitations that we all have in Florida.
Please contact us directly at Sea.Sea@comcast.net.
Thank you,
Cece & Alex Cooke

Palm Coast to the Florida Keys Question
Received 2/7/07

Hello all: I am planning a cruise next week from Palm Coast, Fl to the Keys. Has anyone taken the ICW along this route lately and discovered any potential problems? I am a M/V with 16 ft clearance. Appreciate comments/suggestions.
Warm regards,
Jack Kelly

ICW Bridge Height Gauge Question
Received 2/6/07

I have a sail boat with a very tall mast- 64'-1" to the top of the anchor light. I know the charts show 65' for fixed bridges along the ICW. We occassionally see V/C boards with 63' and 64'. Does anyone know have the V/C boards are calculated? Would we have extra clearance near the center of the span? Any help would be appreciated.
Tall in NC

Depths from Marathon to Western Florida Question
Received 2/5/07

Does anyone know the depths from Marathon to the Shark River – we are hoping to avoid going around Key West and wondered what the conditions are for that leg from Marathon to the Shark River. According to the chart it looks like we won’t have a problem.
From there we were fine last year in Everglades City but did have to come in with the tide and we DID get stuck but that only lasted 30 minutes or so til the tide came in. The Rod & Gun is a very nice place, the pool was fantastic, albeit cold for some southerners, us Mainers loved it.
Thanks much!
Mo

We just left Boot Key Harbor on Wednesday heading to the Shark River and we never saw less than 8 feet at any time. It was comfortable for us since we draw 5 feet.
Larry and Gail
s/v Tropical Gale Winds
Gail Hodge

Okeechobee Waterway Cruising Question
Received 2/5/07

I will be crossing the waterway for the first time. We will be leaving Ft. Myers about 1pm on the first day and are looking to stay on the hook the first night. We cruise at 22 knts. How far could we make it and be anchored up before it starts getting dark? Are there safe anchorages? How long will it take us to get all the way across (straight across the lake)?
Any other info that would be useful?
Thanks,
Capt. Logan Beal

Cruising Western Florida's Pine Island Sound Question
Received 2/2/07

Hello,
Glad to have found Cruisersnet. Have purchased a new boat and Claiborne Young's cruising guide to S.W.Fl; And looking forward to our first mini cruise. Hope to head down towards Cayo Costa, Useppa, and Cabbage Key. Would appreciate any insight on anchorages or places of interest that we could add to our itinerary on this shakedown cruise. Fortunately we only draw 3' ; love the beaches and fishing, and Margaret's all time favorite sailing experience "Dock and Dine". Thanks a lot
Howard Gallagher

Marathon/Faro Blanco Question
Received 1/30/07

We are planning on arriving in Marathon from Marco in late April – any update on the status of Faro Blanco Bayside – any other suggestions for a transient slip?
Shenanigans – Grand Banks 46
John M. Garrity

John
Both Faro Blanco Bayside and Oceanside are currently closed for extensive renovations. A posting earlier on the Cruiser's Net's "Western Florida" page suggests the reconstruction is going slowly.
Try calling Marathon Marina. They have excellent dockage, but, I am told, a long waiting list!
Good luck!
Eddie Jones

Need Carribbean Cruising Buddies
Received 1/28/07

I am planning a cruise throughout the Caribbean starting in November right after the hurricane season. I plan to traverse the Bahama, Turks and Caicos to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, the Virgins and down the Leward Chain, then across the Dutch Antilles and back via TBD. For security and social reasons, I would like to travel with others cruisers interested in a similar itinerary.
Anyone interested?
Dave Olsen

Panama City, Florida Sailing Question
Received 1/27/07

I am new to the Panama City area and am looking for nearby places to sail for the weekend. I have heard a few folks talk about Crooked Island, just a few miles east of here. I am interested in finding out the water depth around the back side of Crooked Island. I can't seem to find a chart that shows any depths and was wondering if there are any charted depths behind Crooked Island or if anyone has done some of there own.
Thanks,
John A. Dery
S/V Alaris
Panama City, Florida

John Dery ask questions Jan. 27th re: cruising out of Panama City. Fl. I suggest John go to Panama City Coastal Cruisers web page (http://www.pccoastalcruisers.com) and follow through to obtain information from the members of that organization. Local knowledge and experience aplenty.
Greg and Carl Vernon
M/V MainStay
Watsom Bayou
Panama City, Fl

South Florida Storage Question
Received 1/28/07

Hello!
We will be needing storage for our 32 foot sailboat from May 2008 to November 2008 in the South Florida area, coming from the east. Does anyone have recommendations in this regard? Thank you-
Isabel and Wayne Francis
Cassiopeia

Exumas Attractions Question
Received 1/21/07

We have been to the Exumas twice in the past two years and really enjoy the area between Allen and Staniel Cays. We have always stayed in Marinas but would like to check out other Islands that have interesting attractions hiking trails and caves to explore. We have been to the caves at Rocky Dundas and Thunderball. Can anyone recommend some good points on interest to visit on our next trip?
Chuck and Cindy Powers
Purrfection

Nearest Airport to Southeastern North Carolina Question
Received 1/20/07

Well the readiness on the sailboat has taken longer than expected but I'm here in Holden Beach (Supply, NC) on the hard, soon to be painted then splashed down. I have two people, my wife and a crew member who want to join up with me very early on the ICW trip south. Problem is it is so difficult to get here from Wilmington, NC. Any suggestions as to the closest terminal (air/bus) to dock/marina near here or south of here… ie N. Myrtle, Georgetown, Charleston, Beaufort etc and describe please?
Tom Felice

Tom,
There is an international airport at Myrtle Beach. Your wife could get a taxi from there to Holden Beach. It is 53 miles. You could call a taxi service for an estimate. Here is one such taxi 843 272 0009.
Wilmington airport is closer at 40 miles, still quite a ways. A better option would be to cruise single handed to Dock Holidays Marina in Myrtle Beach which is only 20 miles north of the airport. Not only would it be a shorter taxi ride but the marina could arrange a pick-up from the airport.
Alan Lloyd
Great Circle Navigation Notes
http://www.NavigationNotes.com

There are 3 other marinas much closer to the Myrtle Beach airport, if that is your chosen solution:
1) Grande Dunes (10 miles), very foo-foo, abt $2/ft with dockhands wearing "love boat" epulated white shirts,
2) Hague Marina (4 miles), cheap and barebones, and
3) Osprey Marina (6 miles), nice and clean, moderate
If you do the trip down from Holden these would add another 1 to 2 hours by boat.
Jim Ague
M/V Derreen

Chubb Cay Facilities Question
Received 1/16/07

Hi!
Heading to the Bahamas the end of this month. Anyone been to Chubb Cay and checked out the new facilities, costs, resturant etc.? Thanks,
Carter Hopkins
aboard Amazing Grace

We received some ads from Chub Cay Club and they have reopened with some limitations we understand. The fees are higher than they were back before they became a club. Check them out at www.chubcay.com their rates are probably there or call them at 1-877-234-2482 It is a beautiful spot.
Fowler's aboard "WinSue"

Crossing Florida's Big Bend Question
Received 1/16/07

We are planning a trip from Fort Lauderdale to Nashville Tennessee latter part of April / first part of May 2007. To get from Tarpon Springs to Carrabelle Florida, is it best to travel at night? I don't like to travel at night but have heard it is best? Also, what is the exact mileage – we carry 300 gallons of diesel (40' motor yacht) so should have enough to make the trip.
Linda

It's about 140 miles to Carrabelle… We have always ran it at night without any problems other than getting really sleepy. Full moon and flat seas make for a great crossing. Usually the May time frame in the Gulf has nice flat seas.Usually! We left Clearwater at 10pm and arrived at Apalachicola around 2pm the next day. This is a little further run by about 10 or 15 miles. Seems like we ran at 12 knots on that crossing. Best advice is don't try to make the inlet at Carrabelle in the dark unless you must. Spend a day at Apalachicola for the Oysters and scenery.
Hopes this helps,
Bob Taylor
Istaboa

We crossed the Big Bend twice last year. Both times at night since we never leave or enter an unknown port or pass at night (unless in an emergency). First northbound at the end of May and then sothbound at the end of November. Northbound we left Ft. Myers at 1700, went offshore out Sanibel Pass, and arrived two days later at 1000 in Destin FL. Distance was 352 NM. Trip had slight headwinds and 3-4 ft waves against us but not too bad (we have large NAIAD stabilizers on our GB 46). Southbound we left Appalachicola at 1400 and went out East Pass and arrived at 0945 next day in Tarpon Springs. Distance was 167 NM. MV Loose Stones left later and went out Government Cut and found 7+ ft depth by staying close to the Green Buoys (see their earlier entry on this website). We had light north winds, 1-3 ft following seas, and a very pleasant ride. Boats leaving the next day from Carabelle had light winds that had clocked around and coming from the east. They reported severe rock 'n rolling all night. You can find the wave height forecast charts from the US Navy and NOAA at our website www.heatherk.com, click on Weather, then select the particular wave height forecast charts.
Fair winds and following seas,
Ed and Norma Hasselmann
MV Heather K

Lake Okeechobee Canals Question
Received 1/14/07

I know that the accepted route across Florida uses the St Lucie canal from Lake Okeechobee to Stuart, but I'm intrigued by the Florida map which shows three additional canals out of the Lake. The Hillsboro canal appears to head for Boca Raton, the North New River Canal to Hollywood, and the Miami canal to Miami. Does anyone know whether these canals are passable, particularly for a boat which needs only 9 ft of clearance and 2 ft of water depth.
Patrick Fowles

Patrick:
None of the other canals are passable. They are now all permanently blocked by dams or dikes, and are really quite shallow. Interestingly enough, they were originally meant for navigation, and were used for that purpose for quite some time. Then, they began to shoal and fill with hyacinth (spelling?), and all were eventually abandoned for any purpose other than drainage. At this time, as alluded to above, all these canals were blocked from vessel traffic by dams, to better help with water level and flood control.
Hope that helps!
Eddie Jones

Diesel Fuel Filtering Question
Received 1/14/07

I am considering installing one of two fuel cleaning systems on my 466 Carver. First, Algae-X and second duel primary (RACOR) filter. Does anyone have comments on these two options? It would seem a duel filter with vacuum gage would be preferable.
Thanks
Joe Bechtol

Fort Lauderdale Marina and Grocery Store Question
Received 1/11/07

Which marina in Ft. Myers is closer to grocery store. Legacy or Municipal? Also what is cost/foot at Legacy—any Boat US discounts?
Judy and Gene Koetitz
aboard Lo Que Se A
Great Harbour 37

Neither the Municipal or Legacy are at all close to a Grocery Store. In both cases they are about 4 miles away.
Marv
Aboard – Dee Light

Western Florida Cruising Question
Received 1/11/07

A Friend and I are planning to come to Punta Gorda area for a couple of weeks of sailing in Mid February of 2007. I do have the "Cruising Guide to Western Florida" Second Edition by Claiborne S. Young I also have A Guide to Anchorages in Southwest Florida First Edition, plus, #15F Loran C map and Chart Kit by BBA titled Florida West Coast and the Key Region #8. A close friend of mine gave these to me as he used them during the mid 1990's to sail up and down the west coast of Florida.
My first questions is this, should I get updated maps and an Anchorage guide? I have a 26 Classic Yacht with only a 3ft. 1 inch draft, fixed keel, and a mast height above the water of 35ft. which is reading the current articles and viewing the maps we should not have many problems on water depth. My second question is where would you suggest that we putin and where is a secure place to park my trailer and tow vehicle while out sailing for about two weeks?
Thank you in advance for your assistance and advice.
Sincerely,
Tom

Tom
Don't dare use the second edition of my Cruising Guide to Western Florida. That version is now horribly out of date. The current volume is the sixth edition. There have been many, many changes, some involving major changes to channels, since the time of the second edition.
Claiborne Young

Dear Tom,
You really should have recent charts for Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island area. We were hit by Hurricane Charlie in 2004 which changed the seascape of this area. Many of the day beacons have been moved and renumbered.
The good news. Fisherman's Village marina is back up and running and filling up with visitors. The City of Punta Gorda is building a municipal marina which will be opening soon.. They also have a public boat launch with parking. The old site of the Holiday Inn has started work on a new resort and yacht basin welcoming visitors to the area. The city is also exploring a managed mooring field and dingy dock with facilities for cruisers but still plans to have anchoring available for those wishing to drop the hook. It's a very exciting time for the rebuilding of our town. Please come and enjoy the area.
Jo-Ann M. Lakes

Looking for Cruising Companions – Marathon, FL to the Bahamas
Received 1/10/07

Hello,
We are anchored in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL awaiting the next window to cross over to the Bahamas. Maybe you have noticed us, we are a Wharram design catamaran called Fourth World. We are wondering if anyone else out here will be leaving on the next window for the Bahamas. Contact us at my email n.curran@comcast.net, or you can stop by and say Hey.
Southwinds blowing soon?
Nancy

Florida Keys Marina Recommendations Needed
Received 1/10/07

Greetings and Happy New Year! We will be starting the Loop in June and will spend Dec and Jan in S Florida. What marinas would list members recommend for the Keys during this period? We will be arranging for a slip well ahead of arrival and would like to pay monthly fees. We also prefer a nice beach and quite spot as opposed to city marinas. Thanks!
George, Cathy and Ashton Worley
Currently out fitting Waveaway
Alexandria, VA

We too enjoy some quiet beaches and they are hard to find in the keys unless you take your tender out to smaller islands. Two of our favorite places are Duck Cay Resort near Marathon – it is very small but has terrific amenities with five swimming pools and one of them is just for adults!! Secondly we love the Galleon Marina in Key West Bight. It has a pool and floating docks. Once in Key West you can take day trips out to places like Boca Grande Key where you will probably have the beach to yourself on weekdays. The town is noisy however, but the marina is nice. Hope this helps.
All the best – enjoy.
Fowler's aboard "WinSue"
Carver-444

Okeechobee Waterway Depth Question
Received 1/8/07

Hi again,
Just wondering how the trip across the Okeechobee is for depths and the shoaling on the ICW is where we come out to the Atlantic – never did the trip, leaving mid January and would love some local knowledge. Our S-2 draws 5’. Thanks much!
Mo

Depths across lake have not been a problem. At the eastern end of your trip as you reach Stuart you may want to travel a mid to high tides as there are areas that can run skinny as you reach Stuart just before your first bridge.
WinSue
Carver444

Bahamas Marina Question
Received 1/7/07

We have a group of 5 boats (two 29' and three 30' cabin cruisers) headed from Florida to the Bahamas in May. We will have 5 days to spend in the Bahamas and plan to spend our first night in West End at Old Bahama Bay where we will clear Customs. We usually travel between 50 and 60 miles a day and from there, our thoughts are to cruise to Lucaya and overnight at Port Lucaya Marina. At that point, we do not see any other marina destinations along the southern side of Grand Bahama Island going East so we thought about taking Grand Lucayan Canal to the northern side but don't see any marinas on the northern side going East either. Our thoughts are to maybe go to Great Sale Cay or Fox Town on our way to Green Turtle Cay but we do not see any marinas in either place. Are we missing marinas that would be nice places to spend the night on Grand Bahama Island along the way to Green Turtle Cay? Thanks for any information you can share with us!
DM

Great Sale Cay is a great anchorage and the trip from there to Green Turtle is an easy run. We prefer to go to West End (a fabulous place) and then on to Great Sale and then to Green Turtle. We found the Lucayan area too commercial. Have not been north through Lucayan Canal. FYI
WinSue
Carver 444

We covered this route with two boats 40 and 50 feet from Miami this past summer. You can get to Great Sale Cay from West End and stop for lunch but will need to continue at least as far as Spanish Cay to find a marina. We made it as far as Great Turtle from West end in one cruising day, but it is more like 100 n miles. Spanish Cay is about 15 nm closer to West End which makes it an 85 mile day. The Bank can be quite calm so if the weather is good you should have little problem. The Cruising Guide to Abacos by Steve Dodge is a good reference for this trip.
TM

Norfolk, VA to North Carolina (Pamlico River) Question
Received 1/3/06

I am looking for some sound advice on a direst route from Glouster, VA ( York River ) to Pamlico River ( Washington). I have purchased Skipper Bob and Capt. Bob, anchorage and marina guides and have the Gulf Coast cruising guides for the ICW.
The boat I'll be bring down is a 32' Carver aft cabin, twin gas 260 hp. I will only make this trip once so I don't want to go to the expense of purchasing the Chesapeake Bay guides. The boat will be equipped with GPS and a chip for the Chesapeake, but nothing past Mile 0 ICW.
Looking at the charts I see lots of big ship traffic lanes and the Norfolk harbor with the numerous channel markers looks intimidating at the least. I will carry a full fuel load ( 180 gals ) but will be single handing the boat and docking for fuel and for traveling at night is going to be difficult. If I were making the trip in the summer, I wouldn't be so nervous, but at this time of the year when the weather is constantly changing, I am starting to get the willies. I wouldn't be making this trip now if I could postpone until later, but the boat has to be moved to settle an estate and the only affordable dockage I can find near and accessible to my home , is in Washington, NC.
Any advice would be welcome and appreciated.
Thanks and Happy New Year to all,
Truitt Early

Okeechobee Waterway Mast Height Question
Received 1/1/07

We live on the West coast of Florida just north of the Punta Gorda. We would like to find a sailboat with a mast height that will enable us to make a annual spring commute to the Chesapeake. Just how tall a mast can we get through the Okeechobee Water Way? There seems to be some dispute or at least a difference of opinion.
At this point we are looking at at a 34 foot Catalina with a draft of 4 feet 2 inches and a mast height of 49 feet. Is this going to work??
Thanks
Willy in Cape Haze, FL

The railroad lift bridge just east of the Port Mayaca Lock on the St. Lucie canal has a reported 49’ vertical clearance in the up position. You need to very sure of your mast height. I’ve seen a sail boat go under with it healed over using a dingy tied to the top of the mast.
Harvey