Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Mar 1, 2017by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Photo Journal Update – Waterway Bridges by Bill Murdoch
Waterway construction can provide welcomed distraction as well as navigational concerns. Bill Murdoch sends beautiful photos of four bridge constructions/removals currently ongoing from Myrtle Beach to Miami. And “one picture is worth a thousand words!”
Thank you Bill!
The bridge construction in Myrtle Beach is moving along apiece with staging extending in to both sides of the waterway. One photo [below] is as we were passing through the construction area and the other photo is taken over our stern looking north at the bridge. (2/1/17)
Carolina Bays Parkway Bridge
See /162534
The old bascule bridge at Sisters Creek is almost no more. Traffic is on the new span, and crews are working both above the water and below to remove the old bridge. We squeezed through the gap between the construction barge and the red side fendering. (2/11/17)
Memorial bridge in Daytona is almost gone as well. It was a little confusing to figure out where we should pass through the construction work, but in the end we went through the old partially destroyed fendering system with no problem. (2/13/17)
Our confusion at the Daytona Memorial Bridge came from both a tool box and from the general state of disarray in the construction area. A Greenlee tool box seen end on looks quite like a green daymark.
This time it is Flagler Memorial in Palm Beach. They have been replacing this bridge for a couple of years. It is sort of like building a new school house on the site of the old school house with school still in session… it is a mess. Anyway, on February 21 we arrived at Flagler Memorial Bridge in Palm Beach right as the span was closing. After an hour wait, the bridge (one leaf) opened for us, and we passed through. It was a tight fit. The old bridge support and its fender system were to starboard, and the closed leaf was close by to port. Here is a picture of the bridge after we have come through. Sorry for the drab photo; it was not a Kodak day.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of SC31 Bridge Site
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Sisters Creek Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Memorial Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Flagler Memorial Bridge
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Nov 21, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6702,-81.46619999
Good News from Fernandina Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 716

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Our thanks to Wally Moran and community leaders for assisting in having a dinghy dock restored at Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR. Fernandina Harbor Marina, heavily damaged by Matthew and offering only limited service, is right in the heart of the many wonderful things to do and see in this special port, see /160351 and call for latest information, 904-310-3300.
Officials in Fernandina Beach decided on Friday to put a dinghy dock in place [at Fernandina Harbor Marina], as I was advised Friday by the president of the local Chamber of Commerce, who sent me the following note she received from the marina –
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A message from Joe Springer at the Marina:
Just wanted you to know we have rearranged boats in the marina and now have a dingy dock area set aside.
This will allow those vessel that are in the harbor, at anchor, a place to come ashore and visit our downtown area.
This area is for dingy boats under 10′ in overall length.
Joe Springer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So – there is now a way for those passing through FB to get ashore and enjoy the city, and just in time for the Thanksgiving crowd coming out of St. Marys, GA.
Note – marina itself is closed, and mooring balls are not available. The only option here is to anchor, or take a slip at one of the other, far less convenient to downtown, marinas. Fuel could be an issue for some and this needs to be noted.
I did promise the Mayor and others on town council and the Chamber that I would see to it that this change was publicized both on my own social network, and with major online boating media.
Wally
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina HURRICANE DAMAGE AND CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Oct 13, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Fernandina Harbor Marina Closed, AICW Statute Mile 716, 10/13/16
Fernandina Harbor Marina is closed. No dockage, no mooring field and no fuel. Their answering machine message gives no projected re-opening date. Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, that puts you right in the heart of the many wonderful things to do and see in this special port. Many cruisers are going to be disappointed. Our thanks to Wally Moran for this alert!
From their website:
October 12, 2016 – Transient Season Questionable
October 13th, 2016
To all mariners, Fernandina Harbor Marina is closed at this time. Other plans should be made for a stopping point for your travels. Our Breakwater/Outside dock, mooring field, transient dockage, fuel sales, store sales and pump out services are closed. We do not know when the marina will be back up and in full service but will use this media to keep you up to date. We wish all our customers safe travels and hope to be ready for your next trip.
October 11, 2016 – Long Term Boaters
October 13th, 2016
Prior to Hurricane Matthew, all long term boats were moved to the basin behind the breakwater dock. The breakwater dock did what it was designed to do; it took the brunt of the force and protected the marina basin and the boats located in the basin.
The City of Fernandina Beach Maintenance staff was on site early Monday morning and to assess damages and to determine what repairs could be completed safely. At this time, the docks in the basin are functional but limited. We are able to provide dockage to our existing customers but no new vessels will be permitted.
The fuel dock is closed.
The pump out facilities are closed
There is NO space available for short term, transient or dingy dockage. Please help in spreading the word to other boaters that the boat ramp is closed and it has not been determined when it will reopen.
AGAIN, there is room for our existing customers and no new customers will be allowed until repairs are complete.
Please check back here as information will be posted as it becomes available.
October 11, 2016 – Marina Closed
October 13th, 2016
Due to damages caused by Hurricane Matthew, Fernandina Harbor Marina is closed. Future repairs efforts have yet to be determined. The City of Fernandina Beach has to coordinate any repair efforts with FEMA and insurance officials. Such coordination will likely take time so a return to service for the marina cannot be projected at this time.
Joe Springer, Dockmaster

Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina HURRICANE DAMAGE AND CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Jul 2, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Captain Jim Healy Discusses the Waterway from Charleston to St. Augustine
Longtime cruiser and SSECN Contributing Editor, Captain Jim Healy, shares his knowledge and experience in these observations on this portion of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Thank you Jim!
The entire region from Charleston to St. Augustine has high tidal ranges, ranging from 5′ at St. Augustine to as much as 9′ in Savannah/Beaufort/Charleston. Those high tidal ranges create swift tidal currents, and especially for first-times, docking is easiest in the 1/2 hour before and after slack.
There are many areas of shallow water in the region. The very best resource for current data on low water and caution areas is available via www.activecaptain.com. Two other websites that all ICW travelers should know about are www.waterwayguide.com and www.cruisersnet.net. I’m sure you are familiar with the Waterway Guide book series. The “Salty Southeast Cruiser’s Net” (SSECN) is really a boating group. It was founded by Claiborne Young. After Claiborne’s untimely loss, the group continued in operation. The Cruiser’s Net website specializes on the US Southeast. There is some duplication of material between the WWG site and the SSECN site, but there is unique value to both. Both are excellent resources for fuel prices, marinas and anchorages. These websites would make a good sidebar for any ICW article. Two of these websites require registration – SSECN does not – and all three are free, and all are very useful to ICW boaters. Both WWG and SSECN also have smart phone apps that duplicate and augment website information and are very useful on small-format devices.
There are some generalizations that apply to the region, including the stretch from Georgetown, SC all the way south to below Fernandina Beach. In some of those areas, boats drawing more than 4′ will want to consider not traveling at low tide; especially celestial low tides. The Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for dredging the ICW. USACE is funded by state congressional delegations. In recent years, the money congress allocates to dredging has been diverted to “more pressing needs,” and so many areas of the ICW are shoaling, and in fact, the ICW resource is slowly being lost; well, allowed to die, really, by congress. There is a not-for-profit called the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association. The Executive Director is Brad Pickel; bpickel@seahavenconsulting.com. That would make another sidebar for any article on the ICW. There are some local knowledge bypasses around some shoal areas. All of the cruising sites above can provide additional detail.
Renting a car in any of these venues greatly expands what a boating visitor can see and do. Some, but not all, marinas have courtesy cars. Generally they can’t be used for long periods, but they are useful for re-provisioning when needed.
Hope this helps.
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Ft. Myers, FL
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Jun 28, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6702,-81.46619999
Captain Jim Healy on Fernandina, FL, AICW Statute Mile 716

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Contributing Editor, Captain Jim Healy, shares his perspective on Fernandina, FL, home to two SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS. Thank you Jim!

Fernandina Beach, FL: City is easy walking distance right at the foot of the docks at the Fernandina Harbor Marina. Take the tour to Fort Clinch. Visit the house where the Pippi Longstocking movie was filmed. Visit Billy Burbank’s trawl net factory; they make shrimp nets; they’re open to the public for tours, and it’s a very interesting afternoon.
Jim Healy
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor Marina
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Amelia Island Yacht Basin
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May 20, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Fernandina Shallows with two GPX routes for 9 to 10 MLW, AICW Statute Miles 717 – 720
Reports of shoaling south of Fernandina Beach have been coming in for several years and prompted a USCG Hazard Warning in May of 2014 (/?p=140702). Our thanks to cruising writer Robert Sherer, New Intracoastal Waterway Cruising Guide, for sending this survey and waypoints to guide you through the shoals.
Fernandina Shallows with two GPX routes for 9 to 10 MLW

The shallows south of Beach have been a bane on cruisers schedules for years and yet there are two deep water paths through the hazard. The problems are the two unmarked shoals: one in the middle of the apparent route as you turn south around G1 and another one on the east bank just south of G1. The third shoal just north of G3 now has a red buoy to mark its location. If buoys were placed to direct boaters away from the shoals, then there would be no issues having a 10 MLW passage through the area.
After a dozen passages through the area, I mapped out a green side route for 9 MLW that many have used successfully. Last fall the Coast Guard asked Taylor Engineering of Jacksonville, FL to do a survey of the area and recommend a new route so the appropriate buoys could be relocated to provide safe passage. I was given a copy from Bill Aley of Taylor Engineering along with waypoints. This fall I used those waypoints to verify a 10 MLW route. So now we have an embarrassment of riches, two paths through the shallows, each one with 9 to 10 MLW.
The Taylor Engineering Survey is shown below:

Contrast that chart with a NOAA ENC chart below showing both the survey route (dotted line) and the green side route I posted earlier shown in blue which I’ve taken many times for 9 MLW.

Note the differences in the two routes as you round G1. The survey route (dotted line) would seem to take you into the shallows if you believed your chart but it doesn’t, the chart is wrong (shifted). Just look at the Taylor Engineering chart with their route plotted on a satellite view. At some point the buoys will be moved to direct boaters through the dotted line route.
I have two GPX files available, one with the green side route and one with the survey route (dotted line). With either the Fernandina shallow passage should no longer be a problem although it does appear that the survey route has more leeway in route width, besides we will be following that route at some point in the future anyway when the Coast Guard marks the new route with buoys.
The GPX files (standard disclaimer, user assumes all responsibility):
– For the Taylor Engineering Survey: tinyurl.com/gvmwrmd
– For the Green side passage posted earlier in the year: tinyurl.com/hnvfjo2
5/20/16 Bob received this reply today from Bill Aley of Taylor Engineering:
Bob,
Thanks so much for the information and the route verification. We’re still working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Coast Guard to get the buoys moved, and to do some minor maintenance dredging to get a nice clean channel through the area. I hope for all of this to be done by this fall. The information that you provided will be very helpful in my ongoing coordination with the Army Corps and the Coast Guard.
Much Appreciated,
Bill Aley
Professional Geologist
Taylor Engineering
www.taylorengineering.com
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May 19, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6702,-81.46619999
Ridley Report: Fernandina Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 716

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The log of Traveler takes us to Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, that puts you right in the heart of the many wonderful things to do and see in this special port.
5-7-16 Now at Fernandina Harbor Marina. On inside of breakwater (face dock) where anyone would want to be unless too big. Joshua, dock hand, very good—LISTEN to him as the current can be interesting– especially at fuel dock. Saw a nice crash between 2 60+’ boats even after the negligent one was warned off. But again, one of my top 5 places to stop. If u have bicycles, then in for a treat. So many things to see and do here. Fresh seafood store right on the docks and the restaurant there is great!!! Marg’s even better than Coastal Kitchen at St Simons! One of the busiest marinas we’ve seen– in a nice way. Lot of foot traffic on the docks and the historic town is right across the railroad tracks for anything– especially lot of wonderful places to eat– or ice cream!! Only concern was that we came in fairly close to low and the south end of the breakwater- where you have to enter- is very shallow. Stay very close to the south end of the breakwater. Wifi not good at all but we were warned about that.
Charlie and Jackie on Traveler.
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Dec 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 30.6544,-81.48359999
Update on Shoaling South of Fernandina Beach, AICW Statute Miles 717 – 720

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Reports of shoaling south of Fernandina Beach have been coming in for several years and prompted a USCG Hazard Warning in May of last year (/?p=140702). Our thanks to geologist, Bill Aley, for sending these surveys to assist in guiding you through the shoals. See /?p=153488 for further advice.
And, thanks to Robert Sherer, we have the lat/lon locations of the turns indicated in the survey below with WP1 being the first heading south:
Note corrections to WP 2 and 4 below, thanks to Mike. Note also that our chart centers on WP 4.
Hi Larry,
This posting is what prompted me to email Taylor Engineering asking for more detail, namely the waypoints for the route turns. I wanted his numbers rather than trying to interpolate from the chart. He was gracious enough to provide them. Perhaps we can nail this section of the ICW so it will never again cause agitation for boaters!
Bob
WP1
30 39.815N
81 28.6086W
WP2
30 39.8595N
81 29.07316W
WP3
30 39.5961N
81 29.1871W
WP4
30 39.263N
81 29.049W
At the request of the Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND), I’d like to share the attached figure with you. The figure illustrates an area of shoaling in the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway within Nassau County, FL that is a potential navigation hazard.
The PDF file depicts some very recent mapping that shows naturally deep water to the west and south of the currently marked channel in this area. Taylor Engineering is currently working with the FIND, US Army Corps of Engineers, and US Coast Guard to relocate the federal channel and corresponding red channel marker #18 and green channel marker #1 to direct navigation traffic towards the deeper waters.
Regards,
Bill Aley, P.G.
Professional Geologist
Taylor Engineering, Inc.
10151 Deerwood Park Blvd.
Bldg. 300, Suite 300
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Phone (904) 731-7040
Direct (904) 256 -1313
www.taylorengineering.com
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mike - December 27, 2015 - 3:27 am

I know it’s probably just a typo and obvious when you try to plot it, but waypoint 2 needs correcting. I suspect it came from converting the engineering co-ordinates that were in dd-mm-sec to
dd-mm.mm, but the correct Longitude for 2 should be 81-29.073
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Nov 16, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6314,-81.47749999
Gasoline Pumps Out of Service, Amelia Island Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 720.5

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The entrance channel leading to Amelia Island Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, cuts into the Waterway’s eastern shore, immediately north of the Kingsley Creek Railway Bridge and just south of Waterway marker #13. Only gasoline pumps are out of service!/p>
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Amelia Island Yacht Basin
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Oct 30, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6665,-81.48289999
Advice for Avoiding the Shoals South of Fernandina Beach, AICW Statute Miles 717 – 720

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Reports of shoaling south of Fernandina Beach have been coming in for several years and prompted a USCG Hazard Warning in May of last year (/?p=140702). Our thanks to cruising writer Robert Sherer, New Intracoastal Waterway Cruising Guide, for sending these charts and waypoints to guide you through the shoals.
There is a 10 ft MLW path through the shoals south of Fernandina that I took on October 28, 2015.
Heading south:
Depart channel 300 ft before R16 aiming for the tongue of deep water shown on chart (Garmin) at a heading of 275M for 17.8 MLW.
Run along the 12 ft contour line next to shore until the tongue of deep water ends as shown on the chart, then aim for G1 which will be at 245M, pass by 30 ft for 13.4 MLW, higher along the way.
Important: do not turn immediately around G1 (shoals), continue for 170 ft, then turn due south for 500 ft before turning towards deep water as shown on charts on the green side close to shore. Run just outside the 12 ft contour line down to G3 and G5, 200 ft off. 10.4 MLW entering the 12 ft contour line, deeper after that.
This passage is difficult because you’re avoiding three shoals:
– one is in the middle of the marked channel in the bend that’s down to 3 MLW
– the second one comes out off the eastern shore just south of G1
– the third one is further south coming off the western shore
None of these are marked.
After six years of passing through here, I’ve settled on the above description, it works for no less than 10.4 MLW. The depths were adjusted for not only the tides but also for the higher than normal water levels as reported by the Fernandina weather station. This passage would be easy if buoyed properly, the route has been constant for the pass five years.
A chart of the route:

For those wanting the exact path, here are the waypoints with the usual disclaimers (things can change on the ICW)
F01
N 30Â° 39.804
W 081Â° 28.596
F02
N 30Â° 39.805
W 081Â° 28.730
F03
N 30Â° 39.853
W 081Â° 28.938
F04
N 30Â° 39.803
W 081Â° 29.082
F05
N 30Â° 39.713
W 081Â° 29.084
F06
N 30Â° 39.613
W 081Â° 29.030
F07
N 30Â° 39.409
W 081Â° 28.968
F08
N 30Â° 39.254
W 081Â° 28.970
F09
N 30Â° 38.824
W 081Â° 29.024
Robert Sherer
aka Bob423
Author of “2015 ICW Cruising Guide” available on Amazon.com
Daily blog at fleetwing.blogspot.com
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Jun 7, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6314,-81.47749999
Report from Amelia Island Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 720.5

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The entrance channel leading to Amelia Island Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, cuts into the AICW’s eastern flank, immediately north of the Kingsley Creek Railway Bridge, and just south of Waterway marker #13. Skipper Herl’s report relates a visit before dredging was completed, see /?p=139385
Amelia Island Yacht Basin
The crew there is great and the restaurant `The Galley Pub’ was very good. Just stopped in to get a snack but ended up with a huge juicy hamburger and all the fixins. Yum-yum.
They are in the process of dredging [now completed] the canal and basin to improve the depth but did not know what the time line would be for completion.
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Amelia Island Yacht Basin
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May 24, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6702,-81.46619999
Early Morning, Fernandina Beach Mooring Field, AICW Statute Mile 716

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Here’s an article with which we can easily identify and a nice tribute to our friends at America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association. Published by Joe Weston in the Columbia Daily Tribune, Columbia, Missouri. Fernandina is home to Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
Early morning on the Intracoastal Waterway
Fernandina Mooring Field
By JOE WESTON
Sunday, May 24, 2015 at 12:00 am
Columbia native Sally Tull Logan and her husband, Clay Logan, are in the midst of an ambitious boat journey called the Great Loop. The Loop involves circumnavigating the eastern half of North America by water, with most of the passage being on the Intracoastal Waterway, or ICW.
Loopers, as they are called, live on their boats for the entire journey, which might be in the 3,000- to 5,000-mile range, depending on side trips. I was fortunate to join them in the Florida Keys last year and on the ICW from Jacksonville, Fla., to Charleston, S.C., this year.
Being on the water affords opportunities for many spectacular sunrises and sunsets, as well as treacherous storms. This scene was more subdued but still beautiful, as sailboats in the lifting fog reflected the sunrise at Fernandina Beach, Fla. The only motion was a solo bird hunting for unsuspecting breakfast at dawn.
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Fernandina Beach Mooring Field
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Apr 17, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6702,-81.46619999
Praise for Fernandina, FL, AICW Statute Mile 716

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My family has been vacationing in Fernandina for more than 50 years and it gets better every year, as Skipper Pink obviously confirms! And a berth at Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, puts you right in the heart of the wonderful things to do and see in this special port.
We never go there without eating at LuLu’s, nuff said.
The palace bar, where the ship captains of yesteryear drank, don’t let the bar (front room) fool you, the opening behind the bar that looks like a kitchen opening leads to other rooms and entertainments. 2-3 years ago now I think when we were there last.
Roy Pink
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Nov 4, 2014by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 30.67,-81.4689999
Sweet News from Fernandina, FL, AICW Statute Mile 716

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My family has been vacationing in Fernandina for more than 50 years and it gets better every year, as Skipper Dammeyer confirms with his discovery of a great bakery. And a berth at Fernandina Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, puts you right in the heart of the wonderful things to do and see in this special port.
Larry,
Just made a great find. The favorite bakery of passing cruisers up Center Street closed a couple of years ago, but a new one just opened 4th of July in Fernandina. Nana Teresa’s Bake Shop had lots of treats and sweets. Open from 10-7, and located at the corner of 5th and Ash, one block South of Center street, around the corner from the court house. The crew at Timoti’s Fish Shop sent us over there for desert. Cruisers with a sweet tooth stopping at Fernandina will find it worth the walk from the marina.
Best,
Rick Dammeyer
Promise
Catalina 445
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Eastern Florida Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor Marina
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Winston Fowler - November 5, 2014 - 11:03 pm

This is a great town served by a great marina and staff. We always stay at Fernandina Beach Marina when traveling the AICW. It is the Annapolis of Florida and the Beaufort SC of Florida too. LOVE IT and glad to have another reason to stop in and visit the new bakery.
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Dennis JAY - November 4, 2014 - 5:43 pm

Fernandina Beach is one of our favorites places to stop on the way south. Stayed one year for five months. Will look for the bakery shop. My favorite place in Fernandina — O’Kanes Irish Pub — closed down last year. Best Irish bar anywhere.
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Jun 25, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.394,-81.45999999
Jim King Park and Boat Ramp, north of Sisters Creek Bridge, AICW Statute 740

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Jim King Park is the newest of Jacksonville’s dock/boat ramps and is still undergoing construction of some phases. The ramp is used as headquarters for the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament, and is closed to the public during the tournament. The facility is located just north of the intersection of the St. Johns River and the Waterway. All of the facilities are new and the docks are listed as unlimited as to size of vessel. Skipper Reeves sends two good photos of the new floating docks. Sisters Creek bascule bridge has a 24ft closed vertical clearance.
Jim King Park Dock – Sonny Reeves
Jim King Park – Sonny Reeves
For a listing of the facilities, go to:
http://www.coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-and-community-programming/waterways-and-boating/boat-ramps/17—jim-king-park-and-boat-ramp-at-sisters-creek-.aspx
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Bridge Directory Listing For Sisters Creek Bridge
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May 13, 2014by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 30.714,-81.53219999
Shoaling Reported in St. Marys River, East of St. Marys, GA, May 13, 2014

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For cruisers wanting to make a side trip to visit historic St. Marys, GA, the St. Marys River departs the Waterway at statute mile 712. This reported shoaling is in the dogleg just a mile east of St. Marys docks. The charted shoal between markers #6 and #8 would suggest that favoring the east side of the channel would be best. For more on the St. Marys River, go to /?p=123715
GEORGIA AND FLORIDA ‘“ CUMBERLAND SOUND ‘“ FERNANDINA HARBOR TO KINGS BAY – ST MARYS RIVER: Shoaling.
There is excessive shoaling protruding approximately 15ft into the channel between St Marys DBN 6 (LLNR 6805 [30°42.9620N / 081°32.0850W, 30.716033 / -81.534750]) DBN 8 (LLNR 6810 [30°42.6191N / 081°32.0305W, 30.710318 / -81.533842]). The Coast Guard has re-established St Marys TEMP Buoy 6A in position 30-42-52-379N 081-32-00.613W (30°43.4983N / 081°32.0102W, 30.724972 / -81.533504) . Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution while transiting the area. Chart 11503 LNM 19/14
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Shoaling Site
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Langs Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Langs Marina
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Anchorage Directory Listing For the St. Marys Waterfront Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To St. Marys GA
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Jonathan Gorham - September 3, 2014 - 2:20 pm

Aha! I KNEW I was in the channel!
Thanksgiving 2013 we were transiting that very section coming out of St. Mary’s and managed to nick the bottom (In a 26 foot outboard with a 2 foot draft no less) while holding a good line between those two markers.
Hopefully the repositioning of the markers has fixed that, but as mentioned, there is plenty of water to give those markers a very wide berth.
MV Top Cat
Glacier Bay 2670
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Apr 22, 2014by: Claiborne Young No Comments
A New, High Volume Dredge Arrives at Amelia Island Yacht Basin (Statute Mile 720.5)
In December of this year, after a personal visit to this facility, we reported that SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Amelia Island Yacht Basin, was awaiting the arrival of a new, high-volume dredge that would be permanently located here. Amelia Island has always offered superbly sheltered dockage, and full on-site services, including repairs. The rub has been depths both on the canal-like entrance channel and in the dockage basin. Well, all that will begin to change very soon.
New Amelia Island Yacht Basin Dredge
While attending the just completed MTOA Spring Rendezvous in Fernandina Beach, I again made a personal visit to Amelia Island Yacht Basin, and had a most informative conversation with General Manager, Bill Galloway and Office Manager, Kristen Galloway. I was very pleased to learn that the NEW DREDGE HAS JUST ARRIVED! Some piping must still be delivered, but in a few weeks, dredging of the entrance channel will begin.
Bill explained to me that this new dredge can “do in a few hours what took our old dredge a few weeks to accomplish.” While it will take a bit of time to get the entrance channel and harbor to the depth targets set by marina management, once that is accomplished the on-site dredge will only need to do a bit of maintenance dredging from time to time.
Wow, what a wonderful improvement to an already excellent facility. We’ll keep you informed as the dredging operations proceed!
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Amelia Island Yacht Basin
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Amelia Island Yacht Basin
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Apr 17, 2014by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Report from Alligator Creek Anchorage, south of Fernandina, FL, AICW Statute Mile 726
Alligator Creek Anchorage – Click for Chartview
The entrance to Alligator Creek Anchorages lies north-northeast of the ICW’s unlighted daybeacon #36. The two recommended locations are above and below the mouth of Alligator Creek.
I’ve been here on two occasions, the first time during a howling northwest wind of 35 to 40 MPH and ducked in between the sand bar and shore in about 12 feet of water, just up from the cut. The trees did a great job of sheltering me from the wind and waves.
The second time was in March of 2013, the wind was howling from the southeast, and the tide was screaming out. I anchored in the same location and it became real bumpy. Nice place, though.
Travlin-Easy
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Alligator Creek Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Alligator Creek Anchorage
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Travlin-Easy - April 22, 2014 - 8:47 am

I’ve been here on two occasions, the first time during a howling northwest wind of 35 to 40 MPH and ducked in between the sand bar and shore in about 12 feet of water, just up from the cut. The trees did a great job of sheltering me from the wind and waves.
The second time was in March of 2013, the wind was howling from the southeast, and the tide was screaming out. I anchored in the same location and it became real bumpy. Nice place, though.
Travlin-Easy
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Feb 8, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Ice Cream Shop Recommendation in Fernandina, FL, AICW Statute Mile 716
Fantastic Fudge Ice Cream Parlor
Ice cream is often the most sought after commodity whenever going ashore, regardless the time of day. When in Fernandina Beach, enjoy the recommendation offered by Skipper Susan Landry, co-owner of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com)
Fernandina Harbor – Click for Chartview
Fortunately, you don’t have to go far into Florida to get your first fix. Fernandina Beach houses probably one of the most visited ice cream shops along the Waterway. About four blocks from the marina, this gem, Fantastic Fudge, makes and sells fudge and other candy. Their Birthday Cake ice cream is some of the best that I have ever had. Fantastic Fudge proudly sells Florida’s own Working Cow ice cream. You will likely find a line here, which is fine. One, you get more time to make up your mind and two, you know it must be good if this many people are waiting in line for it. I have to recommend the Raspberry Haze.
Susan Landry
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor
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Jan 14, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.3953,-81.45689999
Recommended Anchor Spot North of St. Johns River, AICW Statute Mile 739.5

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Sisters Creek Anchorage - Click for Chartview
Captain Reeves’ recommended anchorage lies on the east side of Sisters Creek just north of the Waterway’s intersection with the St. Johns River and north of the Sisters Creek Bridge on Heckscher Blvd.
There are two parks on the west bank of Sisters Creek, one is the Joe Carlucci Sisters Creek Park and Boat Ramp on the south side of the bridge and the second park, on the north side of the bridge, is the Jim King Park and Boat Ramp, the newest, and still under development, Jacksonville City Park.
Nice place to anchor for the night. 30 23 719 N 081 27 406 W
if you are going South on ICW go to port 100 yards past marker G85 10-11 ft of water at low tide. Open to North. Look for flagpole at park across the way and stay out of channel, 100 yards off eastern shore for a good spot. Park is said to have water and pumpout?
Public park is just across the ICW with a place to dock, Daytime only! and walk your pets. We did not explore past a short walk. Bridge is just to the south. Holding is good. Current is fast. We had no problems. Note FWC was ticketing the boats that were not obeying the no wake/minimum wake zone.
This morning we discovered that a free face dock is also at this park. Just opposite of the G85 marker is a creek with a dock and walkway, childrens play area and restrooms. The free dock is posted for 72 hours and has water, but no electricity. This is a Jacksonville City Park. We did not see any shopping.
Sonny Reeves
Pic of this AM sunrise attached:
Sunrise over Sisters Creek
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Sisters Creek
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