Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Dec 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.9608,-81.7129999
CCCC Visits Marco Island Marina, West Florida, south of Naples

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The Cape Coral Cruise Club is a group of dedicated cruisers who always provide unique reports from the marinas they visit. Marco Island Marina will be found along the Marco ‘“ Naples waterway’s southerly banks, immediately west of the high-rise fixed Marco Island bridge.
Cape Coral Cruise Club returns to Marco Island
By Terry and Laurie Carlson
Eleven boats were greeted with sunny skies for the November trip to Marco Island Marina, a destination that had been off the Club schedule for a few years. All boats were neatly snuggled into their slips with the aid of dock master, Elmer Mimas, who located the entire group on one dock for our convenience. Cruise leaders for this cruise were Terry and Laurie Carlson. The boats no sooner got tied up and the fun began as all boaters were introduced to the cruise leader’s Marco Island Poker Run, receiving their score cards and their first playing card. Subsequent cards were issued at different scheduled events throughout the three day cruise.
Tuesday evening was kicked off with Heavy hors d’oeuvres by the pool, followed by a Cape Coral Cruise Club Member Trivia game prepared by cruise leaders,Terry and Laurie Carlson. Participants enjoyed learning little known facts about Cruise Club members that had been gleaned from Bio’s that are soon to be published on the Club website. Gary Taake was the winner of the competition. Valuable prizes were awarded!
Breakfast was served Wednesday morning by the cruise leaders. Main dishes included Apple Monkey Bread, Sausage Hash Brown Casserole, a Stuffed Pancake casserole and more. Pretty sure nobody left hungry. Wednesdays daytime activity was a fun trip to the Marco Island Farmers Market that ended with a nice lunch/drinks at the Esplanade marina. The Wednesday evening meal, provided by the cruise leaders,along with contributions from other cruisers, was centered around the Carlson’s `almost famous backyard smoked’ pulled pork with all the trimmings. After dinner entertainment was provided by John and Patti Queen and their `When the Hell was that?’ competition. Winner was Pat Kryger with runner up Donna Overstreet. Once again, valuable prizes were awarded. CCCC has neat contests’¦
Thursday morning brought yet another breakfast by the pool with Scrambled eggs with cheese, rolls and fruit. Later that morning a trip to the Marco Island Museum was on tap. Approximately 10 people enjoyed learning the history of Marco Island from ancient times to present modern development.
Thursday evening was our dinner out at CJ’s on the Bay at Esplanade. Cruisers were treated to a beautiful facility and marina on the bay at the Esplanade with a wonderful menu that provided something tasty for everyone. The after dinner highlight was the culmination of the Marco Island Poker Run. Final cards were drawn and the winners were Bill and Donna Peterson’¦ and yes, valuable prizes were awarded.
Friday morning all boats cast off, bid a fond farewell to Marco Island Marina and headed back north for a smooth Gulf ride back to the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on Facebook.
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marco Island Marina
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Dec 1, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9291,-82.06339999
Celebrate Lighting the Menorah at Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda, FL

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Another of the ways Fishermen’s Village works to make your Holiday Season ever so special! Punta Gorda, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is on Western Florida’s Charlotte Harbor/Peace River. Whether you are moored in Punta Gorda’s mooring field or berthed at Fishermen’s Village Marina, also A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, you will enjoy your visit .
CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY TO CELEBRATE
THE HOLIDAY OF CHANUKAH AT FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE
The public is cordially invited to join us for the holiday celebration of Chanukah on Saturday Night, December 12th, the 7th night of Chanukah at 7:00 pm in front of the main entrance to Fishermen’s Village. Each night an additional light is kindled until the Menorah is ablaze with eight beautiful lights in celebration of Chanukah. The message of the menorah is a universal one, expressing the importance of bringing light, warmth and holiness to the darkest places.
Chabad of Charlotte County, Rabbi Jacobson, will be among those who will light the candles. Children participating will receive chanukah treats. There will be a children’s performance by ‘The junior jacappelia’. Chabad of Charlotte County is a proud member of the worldwide Chabad movement, dedicated to bringing the message and beauty of Judaism to the Jewish community residing in Charlotte County, by providing educational, spiritual, religious and cultural events and programs in a non-judgmental environment.
For more information contact Chabad of Charlotte County at 941- 833 -3381 or www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com
Fishermen’s Village is located off Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. Visit www.fishville.com for full holiday event details.
Kathy Burnam
Marketing/Events Manager
Fishermen’s Village
mkting@fishville.com
P 941 575-3007
M 941 258-1327
F 941 637-1054
www.fishville.com
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Punta Gorda Waterfront Anchorage
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Nov 27, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7404,-82.69619999
Removing Derelict Vessels from Boca Ciega Bay, Gulfport, FL

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Our thanks to faithful contributor David Burnham for sending us this Facebook video by Dan Liedtke of a derelict vessel being removed from Boca Ciega Bay, which is home to SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Gulfport Municipal Marina. The marina and harbor are found on the northern shores of Boca Ciega Bay and are easily accessible from the Western Florida ICW, just north of Tampa Bay.
https://www.facebook.com/DanRLiedtke/videos/1068989299805807/
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Gulfport Municipal Marina
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Nov 26, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.3153,-82.59819999
Shoaling at Entrance to New Pass, Sarasota, FL

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New Pass leads directly to the Sarasota waterfront and the entrance portion between the Entrance Light and Light 7 is constantly shifting.
FLORIDA – CHARLOTTE HARBOR TO TAMPA BAY – NEW PASS: Shoaling.
The U.S. Coast Guard has received a report of shoaling in the vicinity of New Pass Entrance Light NP (LLNR 21585/1345 [27°18.9185N / 082°35.8861W, 27.315309 / -82.598102]) and New Pass Channel Light 7 (LLNR 21620 [27°19.6814N / 082°35.2924W, 27.328024 / -82.588206]). The Entrance Channel is subject to continual change. Buoys are not charted because they are frequently shifted in position. Local knowledge recommended as the channel is constantly changing.
Chart 11425 LNM 47/15
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Nov 25, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.4387,-81.9199999
Good Words for Snook Bight Marina, Fort Myers Beach, FL

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Snook Bight Marina guards the northern shores of Estero Island, between markers #27 and #29, well east and southeast of the high-rise Fort Myers Beach Bridge, on the Mantanzas Pass channel
This is an excellent facility, with an outstanding ships store and a high quality boatyard with haul out. Added bonus is one of the best fine dining spots in the area, and the fact that a Publix super market is behind the marina. Great stop fir provisioning.
David Hughes
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Snook Bight Marina
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Nov 25, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Gulf Crossing Roll Call
This call for a fleet formation of Gulf crossing vessels is from our good friends at AGLCA.
Hey all,
We are moving to Panama City today To sort of get in position for our crossing. Since it has been awhile since the weather window opened many of us have taken Eddy’s advice and been slow floating Since getting off of the rivers. Loopers are strung out from Carrabelle back to Mobile. It looks like that when a opportunity finally arrives there will be a whole armada of us moving. It would be nice to know how many, who we are and planned crossing speed.
Probably not too early to get a roll call of vessels who are staged intending to cross at the next window since we are at many different ports right now. Our plans a capability:
Panama City until the window is a day or so away. Then Apalachacola or Carrabelle (if there will even be room). If no room we are capable of going direct from Panama City.
Boat speed 7 MPH to 25 MPH. Prefer 10 – 20.
Charlie and Kay Woodard
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Gaz - June 7, 2016 - 10:41 am

Charlie & Kay,
Keep in mind that scallop season starts the 25th of June which will be an issue gaining dockage the closer you get to this date. That said there are many nice marinas reminiscent of old time Florida along the Big Bend area. Don’t expect anything fancy but you will receive great friendship and clean accommodations. All the marinas I’ll mention can handle a 3 foot draft and then some. Be cautious of the depth in this area.
1) Swanne River ahs two: Swannee River marina 352 542 9159 & Gateway Marina 352 542 7349 Call the local BoatUS Tow for current channel depths and USE THE NORTH channel NOT the river.
2) Yankee Town; YT marina 352 447 2529; B’s talk with Helen 352-447-5888; Riverside 352-447-2890 This is one of my vavorite stops.
3) Crystal River: Petes’s 352 795 3302 & Twin River 352 795 3552 This area thinks highly of there dock space but if you’ve never been to Crystal River the stop might be nice.
4) Now to my favorite river the Steinhatchee: For a nice motel with dockage call Shelter Cove. They have recently been bought out by Ideal Marine so you can be the first to review them. 352 498 5707/352-210-1781. There are also Good Times Motel never been there 352 498-8088; SeaHag 352 498-3008 lots wakes; River Haven my favorite 352 498-0709/352-356=2904;
This is outland Florida so best to phone in advance to qualify all your requirements.
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Nov 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9291,-82.06339999
Cape Coral Cruise Club Visits Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda, FL

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The CCCC proves that there was always plenty to do on their visit to Charlotte Harbor. Fishermen’s Village Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is on Charlotte Harbor/Peace River’s southeastern shore.
CCCC Revisits Fisherman’s Village Marina
By Steve and Nell Winner
Despite a rocky, rolling, breeze driven Charlotte Harbor, eleven hardy Cape Coral Cruise Club vessels and their crews maneuvered their way to Fisherman’s Village Marina in Punta Gorda for the October 21-23 cruise. Counting the boat crews and folks who traveled by land yacht, over 30 club members enjoyed all or some of planned activities over the 3 day event.
While some went fishing, others played card games, went biking on Marina provided bicycles, or visited the local art galleries. All enjoyed shopping at the local craft and tourist shops on Fisherman’s Village concourse. Warm weather and light breezes added to the pleasure of afternoon pool time where many members floated and shared stories of the day.
Steve and Nell Winner coordinated the cruise and attending members enjoyed daily hot breakfast casseroles prepared by Nell. As is customary with this group each afternoon ended with happy hour snacks and docktails in the Captain’s lounge. The staff at Fisherman’s Village Marina are quite accommodating in that the Marina makes the Captain’s lounge available at no added cost.
Wednesday was a pre-arranged pizza party in the Captain’s lounge with several pizzas delivered by a local restaurant. All enjoyed pizza along with their favorite beverages.
Thursday evening was the group dinner party at the `Captains Table’ restaurant on the second floor at the north end of the concourse. All participants enjoyed a wonderful salad bar and meal overlooking Charlotte Harbor while watching the sun set on a beautiful clear evening.
The Friday morning departure saw all boaters safely exiting the harbor and traversing much calmer conditions on Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The Cape Coral Cruise Club has been making Fisherman’s Village Marina a fall cruise destination for years and it is a cruise that regularly takes all the slips that the marina makes available.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website
www.c-c-c-c.org
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fishermen’s Village
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Oct 31, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More on Red Tide Risks on the Beaches of Florida
These latest warnings must be heeded if you have children or pets playing at the beach. See “Red tide public health risks” below.

For immediate release: October 30, 2015
Contact: Kelly Richmond, FWC 727-502-4784
Red tide confirmed in Florida: What you need to know
Red tide is a naturally occurring, higher-than-normal concentration of microscopic algae. In Florida, the species that causes most red tides is Karenia brevis. This organism produces toxins that can affect the central nervous system of aquatic organisms such as fish and marine mammals. Red tide toxins also pose a human health risk. The toxins can aerosolize and be carried to beaches with onshore winds, leading to respiratory irritation in people. Toxins can accumulate in shellfish and result in illnesses if contaminated shellfish are consumed. Shellfish harvesting areas are closed when blooms are present.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) researchers are currently monitoring two blooms along Florida’s Gulf coast, one located in northwest Florida and the other in southwest Florida.
`We confirmed the presence of both blooms in September, and they have persisted since that time,’ said Alina Corcoran, FWC research scientist. `The bloom in the Panhandle is currently affecting Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay and Gulf counties. In southwest Florida, patchy blooms have been confirmed along Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties. Extensive fish kills and respiratory irritation have been associated with the bloom in the Panhandle but in southwest Florida the effects have been less.’
Red tide public health tips:
People in a red tide area can experience varying degrees of eye, nose and throat irritation. When a person leaves an area with a red tide, symptoms usually go away.
People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic lung disease are cautioned to avoid areas with active red tides.
In some red tides, dead fish wash ashore; during these conditions it is advised that beachgoers avoid swimming in water where dead fish are present.
Pet owners are advised that red tide poses a risk to animals brought to the beach. If a pet swims in a red tide patch at the beach, rinse off its fur and paws as soon as possible with fresh water. Also, do not let pets eat fish or drink water from the red tide.
Recreational harvesting of bivalve mollusks such as hard clams, oysters and mussels from approved shellfish harvesting areas is banned during red tide closures. To determine whether harvesting of shellfish is permitted in an area, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Aquaculture website.
FWC researchers work closely with partners, including Mote Marine Laboratory, the University of South Florida, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture and NOAA, to track blooms, share information and develop products that help to inform both citizens and scientists about bloom conditions.
`Citizen scientists play a vital role in tracking blooms. Volunteers can provide the majority of water samples for bloom tracking in regions like the Panhandle,’ said Corcoran.
For updated red tide status reports, to track blooms or learn more about red tide, visit MyFWC.com/RedTide. To report fish kills to the FWC, contact the Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511 or submit a report online.
Additional red tide resources:
Red tide facts and information pocket guide and Fact sheet
Florida Department of Health
Shellfish Harvesting Area Status
Mote Marine Laboratory Beach Condition Reporting System at Mote.org/Beaches
USF Collaboration for the Prediction of Red Tides (CPR)
NOAA Harmful Algal Bloom Operational Forecast System (HAB-OFS)
And this from WTSP 10 News:
Red tide sparks tourism concerns
Eric Glasser, WTSP 5:40 p.m. EST December 9, 2015
St. Petersburg Beach, FL — Pictures of dead fish washing ashore in the Bay area are not the images that tourism officials want popping up on social media.
But red tide, say marine scientists, is now here. And how long it will last, they admit, is a mystery.
Visitors like Kathy Keleher who came to St. Petersburg from Canada to experience its cuisine and culture have seen the images of bloated fish now floating in Boca Ciega Bay.
“And then it’s gross, and it stinks,” said Keleher, “I don’t expect that at all. I expect beautiful white sandy beaches and clear water and palm trees. Not that,” she said.
It’s not what those who rely on tourism want people texting their friends and relatives back home.
“No, I mean it’s horrible for business obviously,” said Wade Parrish, head chef at O’Maddy’s Bar and Grille in Gulfport.
“You know, the smell would be a deterrent for people to come out here and sit outside and enjoy the wonderful view that we’ve got here,” said Parrish.
Bob Weisberg with the University of South Florida’s Marine Sciences lab in St. Petersburg, says red tide, or Karenia Brevis as they call it, can kill fish and even cause respiratory distress for people and marine mammals in high enough concentration.
“There is very little we can do about the red tide,” said Weisberg, describing it as simply too large.
“This particular plant can get a foothold, and when it does it then dominates,” said Weisberg, “which is what’s happening right now,” he said.
The red tide algae, says Weisberg, makes its way inland from deep in the Gulf of Mexico riding along strong underwater currents.
Scientists, he says, could better predict how long it might stick around if they were able to take more offshore observations.
Unfortunately, he says, the estimated $300,000 cost to consistently send a boat out into the Gulf of Mexico to take those readings is regularly cut out of the state budget.
Commonly, red tide will begin to dissipate this time of the year, said Weisberg.
But he also warned that there have been some seasons when the algae bloom has survived well into the summer.
For a closer look at the underwater current charts Weisberg and his colleagues at USF use to try to predict the direction red tide may be moving, click here.
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Oct 23, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.8749,-82.31359999
Good Words for Cape Haze Marina, Gulf ICW Statute Mile 38.5

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Cape Haze Marina flanks the eastern shores of the ICW/Lemon Bay, south of unlighted daybeacon #9. See /?p=148478 for great photos! This report is from our good friends at AGLCA.
The Cape Haze Marina is about 4.5 miles before the bridge [Boca Grande Swing Bridge] and is the best deal in the area. The staff and live aboards ar very friendly and helpful. I received 3 offers to take me to the local Publix the first day there. We were caught by the weather and this marina at $1.50/ft. electric included was our choice. The docks are fixed wood in good condition. Restaurant about 3/4 mile away (very good), but the heads and showers are only open from 07:30am to 5:00pm. WiFi is iffy at the transient dock.
Mitch & Carole Brodkin
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cape Haze Marina
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Oct 12, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
Another Abandoned Vessel in West Florida
Abandoned, derelict vessels are much discussed and bemoaned, but the cost of removal continues to prevent communities from addressing the problem. See /?p=150203, as well as other articles by typing “derelicts” in the Search window in our Homepage.
After last Sundays, Oct. 4th, big winds, we have another abandoned vessel washed ashore at DeSoto Park, Manatee River, Bradenton FL.
Winston Fowler
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

W. Merriman - October 16, 2015 - 6:28 pm

Has anyone contacted Boat Angels to see if they wanted the boats? They may not take all of them depending on the costs. But even just a few would be beneficial.
Maybe the municipalities would share the cost.
Reply to W.

Tom Wemett - October 23, 2015 - 2:09 pm

The boat probably belongs to someone. You can’t take the vessel if it is titled in someone’s name. To give it to Boat Angels or any organization the owner would have to transfer the title over to the new owner.
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Oct 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.1378,-81.79099999
Cape Coral Cruising Club Visits Naples Boat Club, Naples, FL

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This fine group of boaters, made up of overnight cruisers from the Cape Coral area, is a cruising club worth following as they visit marinas along the West Coast. Naples Boat Club overlooks the western banks of Gordon River, upstream of the Naples City Pier. This facility lies within walking distance of many shopping and dining attractions in downtown Naples.
CCCC Enjoys a fun time at Naples Boat Club
Member boats moored at Naples Boat Club
Seventeen boats braved the `unknown” by taking a trip down the Gulf of Mexico for our annual trip to the beautiful Naples Boat Club. Why that adjective? September on the Gulf of Mexico’¦ are you going to deal with a potential hurricane or be delighted by a gorgeous sunny day. Some southbound boaters experienced bumpy seas, but all arrived safely. Those cruising were Y Knot, Phil and Pat Kryger;, Infinite Sea, Paul and Stephanie Carrico; The Geezers, Stu and Jane Harelik; MarKate, Mark and Kate Lewis; Princess, Jim and Edie Limbright; Surface Interval, Bruce and Sue Longman; B Mine, Joe and Kelli Mille;, Hardee II, Hal and Dee Moss; Sharon Ann, Len and Sharon Palmisano; Luna Sea, Doug and Michelle Rhees; Spoiled Yacht’n , Armond and Pam Sykes; Still Crazy, Jeff and Joanne Ziemer ; C R Side, Bob and Carol Peterson; Wine Down, George and Carol Smith; Happy Ours, Gary and Kathy Taake; Knot Again, Larry and Maryanne Habich; and Sunkissed, Phil and Lyn Quick.
Club members experienced three days of clouds and lots of rain. However, it did not lessen our appetites for food, drink, and fun & games. So that everyone could relax on arrival day, cruise leaders Phil and Lyn Quick, saw to it that no one would go hungry. One hundred and fifty pieces of fried chicken were provided along with hot buttered biscuits, potato salad, and sliced tomatoes. Way too much chicken. Pumpkin pie with lots of whipped cream was a wonderful finishing touch. Needless to say anyone requiring chicken for the rest of the cruise did not have to look past the refrigerator to find plenty of leftovers.
Day two provided us with even more rain. Therefore several card and other table games became the activity for many in the beautiful Naples Boat Club Clubhouse. After a nice continental breakfast of pastries and fresh fruit several members pulled out their rain gear and walked to Tin City and Fifth Avenue to help stimulate the local economy.
Members have dinner at CafÃ© Luna, Naples, Fl
Thursday morning had more bakery delights provided as another gloomy wet day was upon us. No one was brave enough to put on bathing suits and sit by the pool the entire trip. A bus trip to the Naples Zoo was cancelled due to rain. Most people figured a way to offset the weather and make the best of the day.
We then walked to the front of the Naples Boat Club building to the Wharf Tavern to have a wonderful lobster dinner with all the trimmings. Luckily it was a short, sheltered walk, because…you guessed it’¦yep…still raining!
Most folks retired early knowing the forecast for a northbound departure day was again uncertain. Some left at daybreak and some left at their leisure to take on a smooth Gulf and relish the great times we all had. We look forward to the next cruise trip to again enjoy the camaraderie and boating that the Cape Coral Cruise Club provides.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on Facebook.
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Naples Boat Club
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Oct 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 9 Comments
Trawler Skipper Requesting Navigation Route, Naples to Key West
Skipper Crenshaw is seeking advice on the run from Naples to Key West. If you have experience in these waters, let us hear from you.
We hope to do our first trip from Naples , Florida to Key West. We will depart from Naples at end of December. We are not comfortable too far out in gulf and we do not mind making in two day trip with one overnite preferably in marina. We have 42 trawler with 4 foot draft . We cannot seem to select best track.
Can you help with some suggestion tracks/paths down west coast side?
Thanks
Bob Crenshaw
Sea Path Marina
Wrightsville Beach, NC
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Comments from Cruisers (9)

Jay Light -  October 10, 2015 - 10:11 am

We sail our 36-ft sailboat from Fort Myers Beach to Key West regularly, but do it as one twenty-two hour passage at 5.5 kt. It’s 28 miles longer than from Naples – obviously an over-nighter for us.
We have also gone to Marco and left at 4 am and arrived before dark the same day, sailing straight line. It does take you offshore a bit.
You can get from Marco to Marathon all in daylight. You can probably do it from Naples, too, if you can go eight kts. I have a good set of waypoints I’ll send you if you like. You need to know where you are going through the Moser Channel 7-mile bridge to Marathon. One big drawback of this passage in December is that this section of Florida Bay from Cape Romano to Marathon is wall-to-wall stone crab traps. It’s like going through a thirty mile-slalom course unless you’re not concerned with snagging a trap.
It’s a good day’s run from Marathon to Key West, either on the inside if your draft allows it, or on the Hawk Channel between the Keys and the barrier reef.
Jay Light
S/V ALBORADA
Ft. Myers Beach
Reply to Jay

Maris Eshleman -  October 9, 2015 - 10:54 pm

Bob,
The trip from Naples to the Keys is very simple. We did it last year in our 45′ sailboat with a 5′ draft. We did an overnight from Marathon to Naples a distance of less than 100 nm and then from Charlotte Harbor back to Key West which is less than 150 nm. The distance from Naples to Key West isn’t much different than to Marathon. Assuming you run around 10 kts it is an easy day trip. The water once you get out of Gordon Pass in Naples is mostly 10-30′ deep (some deeper) until you get to Key West where there are multiple shoals and islets so you will need to plan which channel you need to take to were you’re going at Key West. My suggestion is to pick a good weather day and do the trip in a day unless you want to do some other sight seeing along the way. At 4′ you shouldn’t have any issues as long as you watch your charts. Also, the waters around south Florida and the Keys are full of crab and lobster pots along with fish traps so you will need to keep a good watch. We did overnights and had no problems.
Reply to Maris

john kremski -  October 9, 2015 - 4:23 pm

Avoid the Marinas!! This is the prettiest part of Florida, and should be ANCHORED OUT to enjoy.
You can go on the inside from Naples to Marco, then outside around Johnson Shoals (east of Marco Island is a bit skinny water, but the shrimpers and crab boats do it – I did it with 3′ draft and got out of the channel in the fog and ran aground). After Johnson Shoals, head back east into the ten thousand islands and spend as many days anchored in this beautiful area as your schedule allows – there are dozens of spots just inside the mangrove islands. You can run south along the park boundary markers in good depth, and never be too far from a safe anchorage. After you get to the Little Shark River, I always head directly to the keys, via the yacht channel, and then run the north side to the keys to Key West.. There is a brief interval just before arrival in Key West Northwest Channel where you have to go in unprotected waters, so wait for calm or some direction other than North wind for that.
Reply to john

John Scott -  October 9, 2015 - 2:39 pm

Ben, made that trip last January. We went from Marco Island to Little Shark River, overnight anchorage, then down to 7 mile bridge and turned west for Key West. Shark River to Key West took about 10 hours. We cruised at 7-8 knts. Winds normally are easterly and we left Shark River at first light to take advantage of the light winds. By the time we turned west the winds had picked up considerable but then they were a following sea, 3-5 ft. And 10-11 secs apart so ride was ok. We were prepared to spend several nights at Shark River if winds dictated. Pick a good 2 day weather window.
Reply to John

Ted Guy -  October 9, 2015 - 2:00 pm

The last time I cruised Florida Bay was late August 1980, Marathon to Naples, but then the chief hazard other than weather was the lobster or crab traps, some with buoys just under the surface. Thousands of them! You may want to add cutter blades to your shafts.
Reply to Ted

Kim -  October 8, 2015 - 11:41 am

We always do it as a straight shot overnight. It is just under 100 nautical miles Naples pier to Key West. I use 5 knots for planning but unless weather is ugly do about 6.5 so 15-20 hours from Naples. Weather matters. Pick a cold front and ride south BEHIND it a day or 2. Typically we leave Ft Myers at noon; off Naples at 5P and NW Channel next morning, arrive Key west noon. So no ‘real’ navigating in dark. Set the gps/autopilot on the NW Channel bell buoy, Current runs west to east there so a little westing early is useful. The shrimp boats, if any, are lit up like downtown and there is nothing else out there (actually there are a couple of air force relay towers but you won’t likely even see them- google air force relay towers to find exact coordinates). Pay attention to the breakwater at the entrance to the NW Channel (don’t do this at night unless you have a good chart plotter). You can jump along the coast but it is longer as the coast moves significantly East south of Cape Romano. Marco isn’t far enough from Naples to help the cause; Goodland is better but you will need to worry about tide levels coming out by Coon Key. (Running the inside from Marco to Goodland is great but watch tides- 4′ draft is the upper end of what I’d be comfortable with especially in December ) If you anchor out there are good spots at Panther and Indian. Everglades City is nice but again 4′ is the upper limit of my comfort zone and you will lose time going up and down the river. Most folks I know push on to Little Shark, anchor out, and then jump to Marathon. Good Luck. Florida Bay can be mirror calm or a mess.
Reply to Kim

Curtis Hoff -  October 8, 2015 - 5:11 am

Ben:
You will definitely have to watch the water depth on the west side of the keys but you should be ok. I have done the “inside” of the keys a couple of times on my Fleming 55 with a 5′ draft. We try to time the shallow areas at high tide but still “touched” bottom a couple of times (I love a big keel!). It was a bit tight for us but you’ll have another foot of comfort so you should be fine. Just go slow and feel your way when it gets shallow – plus make sure your depth sounder is accurately calibrated.
Definitely wait for a very good weather day – not just one that looks ok or good enough.
A couple of points to consider:
The open water distance to either Marathon or Key West is not very different – they are very much open water. Depending on your speed the time difference direct to Key West is only around an hour or so longer.
Many days the fast ferry runs to Key West so there is some comfort knowing at least one boat will be in the vicinity for part of the travel if you go direct to Key West.
If you go to Marathon definitely make a reservation/late arrival arrangements ahead of time. Sometimes space can be limited and they could be gone when you arrive – dock space at the city facility is very limited however the mooring field is amazing in size. I believe the mooring field doesn’t take reservations but we have been able to get reservations on their dock. There are other facilities there but we have only stayed on the dock at the city marina.
Ask around to see if you can find a “buddy” boat to travel along with – may be difficult to find but always nice if you can.
Key West is a great location and you will definitely enjoy it. We’re spending the month of March there again this year and will travel the same route from Naples area straight to Key West.
Don’t hesitate to call or email if you have any questions.
Regards,
Curtis
Reply to Curtis

Winston Fowler -  October 8, 2015 - 5:08 am

Get as far south as possible, maybe the Rod and Gun Club at Everglades City, or Calusa Island Marina at Goodland, but certainly no further north than Marco Island.
Then head for middle of the keys, say Marathon area . Leave at daybreak although I am not sure of your speed. We’ve done the Marco to Key West, but we can cruise at 15 knots and that makes a big difference.
Watch your wind forecast. You will get some break from easterly winds if you go down through Florida Bay and close in to Cape Sable. All this being said, it has been a few years since I have made the trip. Lets see what really comes in from some folks who may have made the trip more recently.
Winston Fowler
Reply to Winston

Chris -  October 9, 2015 - 3:54 pm

I had a sailboat that made around 5 knots and drew 5.5 feet. I started out in Fort Myers Beach, and day tripped down the west coast to Everglades City. I had no difficulty in finding safe harbors that would accommodate my draft, but beyond Everglades City, there were no other anchorages that were deep enough.
I and stayed at the Rod and Gun club, and spent a day exploring the town. Watch the overhead power cable. Locals indicated that it was lower than 65 feet, and they took great pleasure in seeing sailboaters come to grief there. Not sure if their info was correct, but just be aware.
Since there were no deep harbors between Everglades City and Key West, I planned on making an overnight trip to Key West. I staged just outside of the river, and departed at 3:30 PM. Got into Key West at 10 AM. Crab pots weren’t a huge problem.
Good luck with the trip.
Reply to Chris
Sep 26, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 26.5529,-82.19659999
Clarification Sought on Redfish Pass, off Pine Island Sound/GICW, between Captiva and North Captiva Islands

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Redfish Channel, which leads cruisers from the Western Florida ICW’s run through Pine Island Sound, and the entrance channel to South Seas Island Resort Marina have both been completely altered within the last year or so. Several earlier postings here on the Cruisers’ Net have noted this change. Skipper Chris is requesting local knowledge.
I have been through this pass 3 times and I am still confused by the way it is marked. Red Right Return from the Gulf brings you through some very shallow waters. Check your GPS chartplotter coming in’¦.quite unnerving! Thankful I draw only a couple feet. Any insight would be helpful! Only one red marker and it appears to be in the middle of a shoal!
Chris
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Kim - September 26, 2015 - 8:16 pm

Lots of water- as in 10-30′ 2 tricks –
1) marks are certainly not as charted in the chartlet. they have been moved to keep pace with the shoaling. See: http://media.southseas.com/d/southsea/media/Marina/SSIR_Channel_Map_FINAL.pdf
2) treat the new green mark ‘1’ as an outer rendezvous to get lined up. Especially if you are coming from the south – you can’t just go to the the outer red and head in. stay offshore more; go to green ‘1’ then turn into the pass.
Last up there 2 weeks ago.
Kim
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Sep 24, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.4632,-81.96549999
Cape Coral Cruises Club Visits Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, Matanzas Pass, Gulf Coast

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This fine group of boaters, made up of overnight cruisers from the Cape Coral area, is a cruising club worth following as they visit marinas along the West Coast. Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, overlooks the westerly banks of the Mantanzas Pass channel, west of marker #13.
CAPE CORAL CRUISE CLUB CRUISES TO PINK SHELL MARINA
By John Queen, Vice-Commodore, Cape Coral Cruise Club
Each month, the Cape Coral Cruise Club takes a scheduled cruise to a different marina in SW Florida and stays for several days enjoying the area’s amenities and hospitality. We do that nine times a year along with an extended cruise each Spring. We take a break during the summer months of July and August as many members leave the area. However, sometimes a marina offers the Club a special off-season discounted rate to visit their marina.
That happened when the Pink Shell Marina and Resort in Fort Myers Beach offered the Club an attractive discounted rate for staying at its marina during the month of August. I won’t say how low the offer was, but it was certainly an offer we couldn’t refuse. So, it was decided to organize an unofficial cruise to the marina for any interested Club members.
Unofficially, nine boats made the trip, and this article is the unofficial account of that trip. Over the days of August 20th to 23rd we scheduled this cruise to arrive Thursday and depart on Sunday so that some members who may work during the week could join the fun.
Eight boats arrived Thursday, and one boat arrived Friday. The marina either coincidentally or intentionally assigned us slips that resulted in all boats being lined up from the smallest to the largest as you walked down the dock. Yellow Club burgees flew on the bow of each boat sporting our club mascot – a dolphin holding a drink of some sort (an adult beverage, I would surmise). After safely docking Thursday, sixteen club members convened in the late afternoon for cocktails, snacks and conversation.
For dinner, we had CIFO’s. (Circular Italian Food Objects). 5 large pizzas were picked up and we dined in the Pink Shell conference room provided by the resort. After dinner, I hosted a game of Jeopardy created on my laptop and projected onto the wall. Special categories such as `Local Waters’ and `Cape Coral History’ were developed. (For example, are you aware that the first traffic signal in Cape Coral was placed at the intersection of Cape Coral Pkwy and Coronado in 1969?)
On Friday, we again provided members breakfast, and then everyone went off to enjoy the pool, Ft. Myers beach, or other amenities around the resort. I decided to join several friends at the pool which was not heated, nor needed to be. After being in the pool for several minutes, I recalled my new iPhone was with me in its water proof case. It was checked for calls and, to my utter dismay, found that the `water proof’ case was not so water proof. Yikes! So much for making phone calls the rest of the week.
For Friday night, a group dinner was arranged at Matanzas Inn Restaurant in Fort Myers Beach and eighteen boaters along with fifteen other Club members who arrived by land yacht, converged on the restaurant at 6:00 PM. Since we had a small crowd of 33, the manager had reserved the back area of the restaurant so that we could all dine together. It was great to see so many club members show up. Everyone was anxious to catch up on life’s happenings since we had not been together for a month or so. We also celebrated one member’s birthday. Well, not on that day specifically, but the same date of many, many years prior. You know what I mean.
On Saturday, we again fed the boaters breakfast and then sent everyone off to enjoy the day. Saturday was pretty much an ‘˜on your own’ day, so we didn’t have much planned as far as club activities. Fortunately, Mother Nature was quite cooperative during the time we stayed at the marina and our need for umbrellas was minimal. However, her hot days reminded us that we were indeed in southwest Florida in the middle of August.
On Sunday morning we cast off lines and headed for home ports. Much appreciation goes to Dave O’Conner, the Dockmaster at Pink Shell Resort and Marina. His hospitality and special accommodation to the Cape Coral Cruise Club made this unofficial cruise officially happen!
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on Facebook.
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina
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Sep 20, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Cost of Pumpouts in Florida to be Possibly Paid by Boaters
As local commissioners struggle to fund the current free pumpout service, it becomes apparent that those costs may soon transfer to boaters, as reported in the article below by Kevin Wadlow in KeysInfoNet.com.
Boat sewage pumpout costs likely to be assessed on the boaters
BY KEVIN WADLOW
A boat-pumpout program launched to protect Florida Keys nearshore waters from sewage discharges stands as a model for the state, but state funding for the program is drying up.
Money from the state’s Clean Vessel Act “dropped significantly this year,” Monroe County Marine Resources administrator Rich Jones told county commissioners Wednesday at their Key Largo meeting.
Local contractor Pumpout USA “had a lot of trouble making ends meet this year,” Jones said.
Monroe County in 2015 will spend about $367,000 on the program, with the state funding around $319,000 toward an estimated 18,000 vessel sewage pumpouts.
The county’s share works out to $21.10 per pumpout. Overall, average total per-pumpout cost is about $40, down from $55.70 in 2014.
The state Department of Environmental Protection now seeks “throughout the state to build sustainable pumpout programs, using Monroe County’s pumpout program as a model,” Jones said in a report to commissioners.
To reduce the number of illegal sewage discharges in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary waters, the pumpouts are offered free of charge to boaters. However, commissioners have urged staff to work toward some type of fee system for boaters.
“I am concerned about the long-term viability of free pumpouts,” Commissioner Heather Carruthers said. “We can’t count on the state for anything.”
Commissioner Sylvia Murphy said her office receives “a constant supply of comments” from land residents “who pay for sewage” while anchored liveaboard residents “are not paying taxes or rent or anything else, and we’re paying for their sewage.”
“I like doing something to keep sewage from going in the bay or ocean but sooner or later we’re going to get on the stick and make them pay,” Murphy said.
Pumpouts are mandatory inside local managed anchoring areas, where Jones said compliance “is close to 100 percent.”
Commissioners asked about extending the pumpout requirement to all nearshore Keys waters, but questions about jurisdiction and enforcement were cited as potential obstacles. Staff is “looking at any and all alternatives,” Jones said.
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Sep 9, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7771,-82.62889999
Chartering from Renaissance Vinoy Resort Marina, Western Shore of Tampa Bay

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The Renaissance Vinoy Resort Marina is found in the northernmost of the three downtown St. Petersburg dockage basins, hard by the vibrant downtown St. Petersburg dining and shopping district. As Skipper Holtzberg mentions, Sailing Florida Charters operates out of Renaissance Vinoy Resort Marina.
I have been chartering with Sailing Florida for approximately 10 years now and they still have a top notch team taking care of their large fleet of boats. Again I was pleased with my charter this past Labor Day weekend on another Catalina 350 in their fleet. I have chartered anything from 29 to 39′ in their fleet. If you want to know about Sailing Florida from a customer then PM me.
Marc Holtzberg
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Renaissance Vinoy Resort Marina
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Sep 9, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.4682,-82.69689999
A Stormy Stop at Bradenton Beach Marina, GICW Statute Mile 87

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Bradenton Beach Marina lies at the terminus of the charted, L-shaped channel cutting in from the Cortez Bridge’s southwestern corner in Bradenton Beach, FL
I stayed here on Sunday night of Labor Day Weekend and the Marina and Bradenton Beach is so quaint and cute. There are no floating docks. We were placed out on the end of the large T-dock which was fine, we had called and they said they would send some one out to help tie up but, no one showed up. We got tied up and powered when a storm rolled in from the Southeast and pummeled us against the dock for a hour and half seeing gusts to 35-40 knots on the beam. After the storm we dinked across the ICW to Tide Tables and had a great dinner. Bradenton Beach is a great town and we might come driving back in a car.
Marc Holtzberg
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Bradenton Beach Marina
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Sep 9, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7714,-82.62869999
Fuel Stop at St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, Tampa Bay

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St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is a great liveaboard marina located on the western shore of Tampa Bay in downtown St. Petersburg.
Refilled my charter boat on Labor Day after a weekend of sailing/motoring. Very nice chap met us at the docks and helped us tie up and pump the diesel that we needed. They have remodeled their marina supply store and it is very nice.
Marc Holtzberg
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For St. Petersburg Municipal Marina
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Sep 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 27.3327,-82.54639999
A Visit to Marina Jacks, Sarasota, FL, GICW Statute Mile 73

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Everyone refers to the large, downtown Sarasota, Florida municipal marina as “Marina Jacks” but, in reality, that is the name of the on-site restaurant, and the maritime part of the operation is officially known as “Marina Operations.”
I have not stayed in Marina Jacks in a long time but, their service is unchanged. When you radio for a slip they come meet you and help you tie up. In the morning you will find a newspaper in your cockpit. The only problem I had was a Fountain powerboat that was next to me was incorrectly tied and threatened to crash into my boat when the winds shifted. I jumped on the boat and fixed his lines. Never saw the owner or any of the marina staff there at all to correct or comment on the issue. I guess he was a just another blow boater.
Marc Holtzberg
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Marina Operations/Marina Jacks
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Kris Greene - September 10, 2015 - 3:20 pm

Hey Marc, “blow boater” is a term of derision used by powerboaters to refer to us sailboat sailors. That Fountain power boat operator would probably best be called a “landlubber”, or you can use an anatomical term of choice.
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Aug 14, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.8886,-82.05369999
A Good Neighbor Speaks for Riviera Marina, Southern Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor, Gulf Coast

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Riviera Marina is found on the waters of Alligator Creek, entered by the charted, “L” shaped channel south of Mangrove Point. This was once one of the most ill-kept marina facilities in all of Florida. We are very glad to hear that this property has been substantially improved. Our thanks to Robbie Cannon ofr this report.
My name is Robbie Cannon and I live a few canals away from Barry’s yard, the Riviera Boatyard. I am very familiar with the boat yard business as I had one for 24 years in Charleston SC. I disagree with the people that talk about wrecked boats and oil etc. Barry has nothing like that going on there at all. The commercial guys that fish out of there are the nicest people that you would ever want to meet. The truth is that when guys like Barry are not able to stay in business anymore then these comments will all be about… I SURE WISH HE WAS HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Robbie Cannon, Deauville St, Punta Gorda
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