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    • Dec 22, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Anchoring On Little Shark River (north of Cape Sable, and south of Ten Thousand Islands)

      This is one of the first reports we have had here on the Cruisers’ Net (this posting was copied from the AGLCA mail list), about shallow depths on Little Shark River. To be sure, there is some shallow water there, especially if you try to navigate through to (Big) Shark River. However, in the instance below, I’m guessing the anchor in question was dropped fairly close to the river’s southeastern shoreline.
      I’ve always suggested that those who want to anchor near Little Shark’s mouth, drop their hook on the mid-line of the charted cove northwest of #4. This is a great spot. HOWEVER, don’t get your anchor too near this shoreline either. The waters near to shore have a foul bottom.

      When we anchored in Little Shark River, near the southeast shore between G”3″ and R”4″, the anchor was in ~7 feet of water at high tide. Strong SE wind predicted, so we put out plenty of scope. The next morning, when we got ready to leave, the anchor was in ~3 feet of water (low tide) and we draw ~4. Fortunately, that scope and the wind had us in deeper water. The tide didn’t get high enough for us to retrieve the anchor until after mid-day. We decided to re-anchor and enjoy the area for another day. I was used to 1-2 foot tides in the Gulf and didn’t pay attention.
      The point is, don’t rely on charted depths and do check the tide predictions. There is plenty of water in Little Shark River, but not near the southeast bank at low tide.
      Great anchorage!
      Bill

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For The Little Shark River Outer Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Little Shark River Southern Fork Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For The Little Shark River Upper Anchorage

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    • Dec 17, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Good Times at Laishley Park Marina (Punta Gorda, Peace River – Charlotte Harbor)

      will stand as a tribute to the vision of the leaders of the City of Punta Gorda and to the teamwork of all who helped make it a reality.Laishley Park Marina is the new city of Punta Gorda facility, which sits between the Highway 41 bridges on the shores of Peace River. These spans put this facility off limits for all but small sailcraft, but for power vessels, this is one of the best places to coil your lines from Fort Myers to Tampa Bay. I have been here and personally inspected their docks, store, showers and Laundromat. Laishly Park is exactly what a cruiser friendly marina should be, and I’m not just saying that because they are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      Subject: Laishley Park Marina
      Cruising News: We are staying at the Laishley Park Marina in Punta Gorda, FL for about 4 weeks. This is an outstanding new marina with floating dock. Very friendly people and really great showers & Laundry. Other than being off the path it is a great place.
      Larry Hemmerich

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Laishley Park Marina

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    • Dec 16, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Crossing Florida’s Big Bend And Crabpots

      For those who have never before cruised the Big Bend region of Western Florida before (north of Anclote Key and Clearwater, and south of Dog Island and Carrabelle), there is NO protected inland waterway that serves this region. Thus, cruisers, must either follow the coastline around, keeping WELL offshore, or cut the corner and head straight for their destination. Either way, crab pots can be a real problem for cruisers, particularly in the dark.
      The question and two answers below are copied from the AGLCA mailing list, and give good info on successfully navigating these wide open (but shallow) waters.

      How have the crab pots been recently for those that have crossed during the day?
      How about at night? I note that there will not be much of a moon this weekend as it’s waning towards a new moon on wednesday the 16th. Are you using a light to try and spot them?
      Also, re you trying to stick closer to the coast by going to R”2″, or just charting a direct line? Seems like when you’re out that far already, the direct course wouldn’t be that different as the wind and waves go.
      Any other thoughts or guidance is much appreciated!
      Thanks to those that have gone before!
      Jim (crossing virgin)

      Jim,
      We made a direct daylight crossing, Govt Cut in Appalachicola to Clearwater on Nov 14. We found a minimum (from our standards) number of crab pots for about the last 4-6 miles. They were doable. You just have to figure out on which degree heading the crabber set his traps and then “thread the needle” following that heading. In general, the crabbers don’t usually set their traps in more than 40 feet of water and more than 12 miles from the coast (it is too much work for them). However in the Big Bend the water is so shallow all that changes.
      Safe Travels,
      Fred Clarkson
      “Perfect Remedy”

      Jim,
      We crossed a couple of weeks ago on a direct line from Apalachicola to Clearwater at night and started seeing crabpots about 35 miles out and picked up from there. We left gov cut around 4 PM and arrived at Clearwater around 11am next morning and had to offset our approach due to the sun glare in order to see the crabpots but we made it OK.
      Steve Wood
      Here and Now
      at Cape Haze, Fl

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    • Dec 16, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Little Shark River Outer Anchorage (north of Cape Sable, south of Ten Thousand Islands region)

      I have always recommended anchoring on Little Shark River IF the wind does NOT die. Should you be caught here in calm conditions, the winged pests may pick your boat up and take it to the marsh grass, to devour it there. Otherwise, this is a beautiful, well protected anchorage.
      In the absence of an unusually low tide, which seems to be what Captain RL and Karen are describing below, the entrance to Little Shark River maintains 6 feet at MLW. Once on the rivers’ interior reaches, depths improve for quite some distance upstream.

      Anchored in the Little Shark River on Sunday Dec. 13, 2009. Very buggy but we have a screen enclosed cockpit, stayed in the cockpit all night to view the Geminid Meteor Showers’¦spectacular show. Several dolphins circled our boat all night. No problem entering the river but when we left the next morning it was a very low tide and at one point we did tap the bottom but didn’t have any problems getting out. Our boat draws 5 1/2 ‘˜. A great place to view the wildlife and stars, also no cell phone reception which can be good and bad. A welcome change from the Keys.
      Capt. RL & Karen
      s/v Last Call
      45’ Island Trader, Ketch

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Little Shark River

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    • Dec 13, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Lofton Island Mooring Field (abeam of Fort Myers City Yacht Basin, Caloosahatchee River)

      Located at Mile Marker 135 on the Okeechobee Waterway, 15 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers Yacht Basin is a well designed and protected marina. It is owned and operated by the City ofThe Lofton Island Mooring Field is managed by, and lies directly across the Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway channel from Fort Myer City Yacht Basin (A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR). What else can I say except this is one of the best municipal facilites in all of Florida, and I’m sure the marina’s excellent managment spills over quite readily into its mooring field.

      Excellent well-protected anchorage, just noisy with all night traffic on the bridges. Hot and muggy except in winter. Rent a mooring buoy from the City Marina and use their facilities and dinghy dock, or just move north and set your own anchor and use restauarant and bar facilities on west side of westernmost bridge
      jim

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Anchorage Directory Listing For The Lofton Island Mooring Field

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Fort Myers City Yacht Basin

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    • Dec 9, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Sea Hag Marina (Steihatchee River) and Crossing Florida’s Big Bend, North to South

      First, Michael and Jana’s advice about departing south over the Big Bend region, from Tysons Harbor on Dog Island, is a really good idea. Tysons makes for an excellent anchorage, and you are right at the jumping off point whenever you choose to turn your bow south.
      Sea Hag Marina is the only facility really fitted out for cruising size craft on the Steinhatchee River. As long as you remain the in marked entrance channel, depths should not be a problem on the Steinhatchee. This is one of the deepest of the Big Bend streams.

      Second Star and Emotion III crossed from Dog Island two days ago. As predicted the first six hours were pretty lumpy then it smoothed out. Trip took 10 hours (6 knots) so we left in dark. First we shot the pass and left a bread crumb trail the day prior so the dark passage was at least well plotted. Next time I would leave from Tyson’s Harbor on the far east side of Dog Island which would eliminate the pre dawn departure. The charts don’t show it but that exit is very well marked. We stayed at Sea Hag Marina and experienced no problems getting in. We arrived two hours before high tide.
      Michael & Jana La Porte
      m/v SECOND STAR

      We stayed for a few days at SeaHag Marina in May 2010. Three sailboats plus one trawler. No problems with depth in or out. The Marina was very accomodating, arranging a pick up to give us a ride to a local restaurant. They also provided a ride to the local IGA. Rustic but a great stopover.
      Bob Dorman

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Sea Hag Marina

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    • Dec 7, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Suwannee River and Other Big Bend Ports of Call Information

      The message below is copied from the AGLCA mail list I concur with the USCG (see below). There are some definite 4-foot MLW soundings IN THE CHANNEL at the Swuannee’s entrance from the Gulf.

      I would not recommend entering the Suwannee River. We did it once and ran aground. Another looper ran aground and destroyed his impellers. The entrance is generally about 3 feet with some spots as low as 2.3 feet. See the attachment which USACE says is not to be used for navigation.
      _http://pillar.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/HydroSurvey/survey/06-05
      9.pdf_
      (http://pillar.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/HydroSurvey/survey/06-059.pdf)
      The ballad of the Suwannee River. The original entrance is marked on the chart as West Pass. Boaters now use a new entrance, known locally as McGriff Pass, and the USACE no longer maintains West Pass. It is now only good for kayaks. It took an Act of Congress, HR1992, to transfer responsibility from West Pass to McGriff Pass formerly known as Wadley Pass. Next followed years of public hearings. The residents of the tranquil village of Suwannee are reluctant to see a concrete jungle like many other parts of Florida. Another group is concerned about damage to fragile sea grass. Friends of sturgeon are worried that dredging will interfere with passage of sturgeon on their way to traditional spawning areas up river, Manatee are on our side. A deeper entrance channel will make it easier for them to migrate upstream each winter. Florida Department of Environmental Protection finally issued a permit in October, 2007. A site has been selected to dispose of the dredged spoil. Plans are now underway to prepare the site prior to actual dredging. Stay tuned!When dredging is complete, the Suwannee River will become the preferred stopover for loopers on the Big Bend. It is exactly halfway between Carrabelle and Tarpon Springs. The river is wide and deep for 20 miles to Manatee Springs State Park. In the meantime, if you want to explore the Suwannee then rent a houseboat from Millers Marina (suwanneehouseboats.com).
      Alan Lloyd
      Author, Great Loop Navigation Notes
      _www.NavigationNotes.com_ (http://www.navigationnotes.com/)

      Again, you’ll get differing `opinions’ and experiences, but FWIW’¦
      When I was in the planning stages of my ¼ loop (St. Louis to Tarpon), I drove to Coast Guard Station Yankeetown on the Withlacoochee and spoke with the Officer in Charge about the different channels on the Big Bend. (I’m in the CG Aux) He (strongly) recommended avoiding the Suwannee channel(s) altogether and looked at it as best navigated when one has lots of local knowledge. My 23′ boat draws about 3′, much like the 25′ and 27′ patrol boats at Yankeetown, but the Coasties run that AOR (Area of Responsibility) all the time so I thought they were worth listening to. I have property on the Suwannee that I would like to explore by water, but I suppose that means launching my PWC (Sea-Doo) from a local ramp, upriver.
      When we made the crossing (June 2008), we had planned to run straight across, but left late from Carrabelle and hit an infamous Florida Summer afternoon thunderstorm. I looked on the GPS and `found’ a little-mentioned port and channel ‘“ Horseshoe Beach, about 18 miles south of Steinhatchee. Luckily it was at higher tide but I called `anyone familiar with the Horseshoe Beach channel’ on the VHF and Sea Tow came back with reassuring advice for running it. There was a marina there ‘“ but closed on Sunday, and closing permanently. There is a local diner ½ block from the water with the best shrimp I’ve had in my life (or maybe we were simply hungry). There are no other significant services and the closest town is not close. I only mention Horseshoe because that seems to be where channel navigation becomes dicey when heading south (though I’ve personally never navigated any other Big Bend channel).
      CAPT Rick Rhodes, in his book ‘“ Cruising Guide to Florida’s Big Bend, has more detailed info on these channels and virtually every channel south of Horseshoe ‘“ including private channels. Between his recommendation, a high tide, and VHF calls to Sea Tow or BoatUS, ALL channels seem navigable during the right time of day and/or right time of year. (Gulf waters are departing for the winter’¦) The U.S. Coast Pilot Vol 5, Chapter 5 also has general information to help you make your decision.
      Kitty Nicolai

      Yesterday we transited to Suwannee River again arriving two hours before high tide and found plenty of water except perhaps just past the entrance to McGriff Channel (this is the only passable channel) where we had only six feet of water. We came in slow but once past the channel its deep and beautiful. Much of our passage was in heavy fog but we could see the crab pots easily and two other small fishing boats on the radar. Seems like a good place to wait out the storm.
      Michael & Jana La Porte
      m/v SECOND STAR

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    • Dec 4, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cruising to Tarpon Springs and Anclote River (north of Clearwater)

      The question and answer sequence below is taken from the Net’s “Ask Your Neighbor” page (/category/ask-your-neighbor/). I thought this good advice would be of even more value here on the Net’s “Western Florida” Cruising News Section.
      I join with Captain Kendrick in recommending a cruise up Anclote River to Tarpon Springs. This is a delightful port of call, with an embarrassment of riches when it comes to good places to dine ashore.

      Subject: Tarpon Springs and environs
      Cruising News: We’re planning a cruise north from Punta Gorda as far as Tarpon Springs, if it’s worth the extra miles from Clearwater. Can anyone shed light on TS as a destination? We’re a 38′ Carver drawing 3.5′. Thanks for any input!
      Eric Norlin

      A visit to Tarpon Springs is definitely recommended. We recently cruised from Cape Coral to Tarpon Springs in a 41 foot express cruiser with a draft similar to yours. Tarpon Springs is less than 20 nautical miles from Clearwater Beach with no navigational challenges along the way. We stayed at the Tarpon Springs City Marina for two nights. The marina is located on Dodecanese Boulevard near the US 19A Bridge over the Anclote River. This is the Sponge Dock area lined with shops, restaurants, bakeries, tours, etc. We ate at Rusty Bellies and were very satisfied. A two day visit was about right for us. More information about Tarpon Springs City Marina is available in the Cruiser’s Net Marinas section.
      Doug Kendrick

      We have stopped in Tarpon Springs when we were in the area in 2007 and again in 2009 both times we stayed at the city marina which is not a fancy place but right on the main drag so close to many shops and restaurants the folks at the marina and in town are very nice. We both love Greek food so that is a big draw for us.
      We will be stopping there again on our cruise south in the spring of 2010. There is nice scenery along the river on the way in.
      Steve Willett

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Tarpon Springs City Marina

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    • Nov 30, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Florida’s Definition of “Minimum Wake” and “No Wake”

      The note below is actually in response to a question on the Net’s “Ask Your Neighbor” page (/category/ask-your-neighbor/). However, I though the contents important enough to post on all the Net’s Floridian pages.

      The Florida Wildlife website lists the following under boat speed limits:
      Any vessel operating in a speed zone posted as `Idle Speed – No Wake’ must operate at the minimum speed that will maintain steerageway.
      Any vessel operating in a speed zone posted as `Slow Down – Minimum Wake’ must operate fully off plane and completely settled in water. The vessel’s wake must not be excessive nor create a hazard to other vessels.
      However, the determination is up to the officer and there are many officers with differing opinions.
      Doug Kendrick

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    • Nov 30, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Johnson Bay Anchorage (on Marco Island to Naples waterway)

      Johnson Bay Anchorage is found on the unofficial Marco Island to Naples waterway, just north of Capri Pass and Marco Island. It is a pretty good anchor down spot, and can be accessed both by Capri Pass (as described below) or by cruising north behind Marco on the waterway.

      We anchored here over the Thanksgiving weekend. We draw 5’8’³ and had no issues. We entered Capri Pass at low tide (0.9′ above MLW) and our lowest reading was 8′. We did favor the south side of the channel as shoaling to the north was pretty evident and we were concerned that it may be shoaling into the channel. The shoaling did help break the seas. Entering into the channel we still favored the starboard side until after turning north, at which point we favored the port side. You will feel the wake of passing boats, but for us it didn’t seem to be much of a problem. A front blew through so we had fairly strong north winds and Umbrella Island afforded a reasonable lee. Holding was very good, but the mud is sticky. We anchored pretty much right over the anchor in the chartlet provided by the Cruising Guide to Western Florida (we carry it and the Cruising Guide to the Florida Keys aboard) . It was pretty nice sitting in a peaceful and pretty anchorage, with fresh backed cookies and coffee and our diesel fireplace going.
      s/v John Galt
      Tayana 37

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Johnson Bay Anchorage

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    • Nov 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Fort Myers Yacht Basin (City Marina) Has Good Waste Pump-Out Services

      The message below is copied from the T&T mail list, and was actually a part of a lenghty discussion of the “Florida Potty Patrol” issue. However, I’m copying it here to pass along what a good waste pump-out system is available at Fort Myers Yacht Basin. And, that’s just as it should be, since these good people are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      I liked the setup at Ft Myers City Marina, and a few other places, the docks are all plumbed with PVC vacuum pipes, each slip has a valve and quick coupler. For every couple of docks there is a dock box with vacuum hose, when you want to pump out you get the hose, connect it to the quick coupler and your blackwater fitting, open the valves and pump out rinse the hose when done (please), and return to the dock box, no scheduling, moving around, or waiting.
      I find the process is made simpler if you have the quick coupler adapter that screws into the blackwater deck plate, I had one for my Camano but
      haven’t been able to find one which matches the threads on the my Monk.
      Steve

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For

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    • Nov 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Tarpon Springs City Marina – Detailed Report (Anclote River)

      According to my own observations, Captian Kendrick’s report below concerning Tarpon Springs City Marina is spot on.

      We stayed at Tarpon Springs City Marina the nights of 21 and 22 November 2009.
      There are only four transient slips available so call ahead for availability. We were disappointed with the narrow, unsteady finger piers. We felt uncomfortable when using them. In addition, the finger piers are relatively short and could pose a problem for a boat with a side entrance.
      The rest rooms are open to the public during the day. A $5 deposit will get a key to enter after hours. If there are showers there, we failed to find them. The location is great for shopping, eating, and sightseeing but noisy as it is very near the Route 19A bridge over the river.
      However, the noise drops after dark as traffic lessens. A Winn Dixie Supermarket is a pleasant, but long, walk. Walk South on [Highway] 19A to East Athens street, go left to Safford Avenue, then right on Safford. Return to 19A by turning right onto West Morgan Street. Winn Dixie is on the East side of 19A to the left. Safford has a pedestrian/bicycle walk in the median with benches placed here and there.
      Doug Kendrick

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Tarpon Springs City Marina

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    • Nov 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Caledesi Island State Park Marina (north of Dunedin)

      As I recall, the entrance channel leading to Caladesi Island State Park Marina (from Hurricane Pass) can be a bit of a challenge for first timers, but otherwise, this is a pretty good facility for those who just want to get away from the maddening crowd.

      Subject: Caladisi Island State Park Marina
      Cruising News: We visited Caladisi Island State Park\’s marina for three days beginning 18 November 2009. The marina is modern with new floating piers, water and 30 ampere electricity at almost all slips.
      Most of the slips are for 12 foot beam, but there are eight for various beams up to 17 feet. The wider beam slips can not be reserved but the T heads can be used for wider/longer vessels, however one must pay for two slips on the T. Prices are $1.00 per foot (plus 12 percent tax) with a 50 percent discount for Florida residents over 65. There is a snack bar (hamburgers, hot dogs, etc.) and individual rest rooms, but no fuel, pump-out, or services. The beach has been rated America\’s Best Beach two years in a row. There is a really nice nature path and picnic shelters. This is a great, inexpensive place to relax if your boat can stand the relatively shallow approach channel. We left at low tide and had enough water for our 3 foot 6 inch inch draft.
      Doug Kendrick

      We must have been following in Capt. Kendricks footsteps, we were at both Caladesi and Tarpon Springs City Marina this last week. I’d second everything he says. Cladesi Island is a fabulous unspoiled beach and park with a very well protected clean and well maintained marina. Following the reccomended course line from marker #14 of the Hurricane Pass channel straight across to the Caldesi channel marker #1 we never had less than 5 feet at mid-tide. There were a couple of 50 foot power boats and some 35 foot sailboats there when we were there. 30 amp electric is reliable and included in the slip price. The only disapointment for us was no showers. There are shore heads and changing rooms, but the only showers are open-air, cold water showers on the beach crossovers. The sunsets and the shelling on the beach are world-class.
      Jonathan Gorham

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    • Nov 23, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Marina Recommendation Between Fort Myers and Sarasota

      The following discussion is copied from the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association mailing list.

      We are having family Christmas holidays (with the twins!) near Rotonda between Ft Myers and Sarasota. Any recommendations for marinas to keep our boat for a couple of weeks or a month in this general areawould be appreciated.
      There seem to be a lot of choices and prices about $2+ daily and $12-16 monthly.
      Other advice appreciated……
      I have not done a mooring but this seems a possibility too.
      Thanks, Jim
      Have a great thanksgiving week……

      Palm Island Marina Engelwood / Cape Haze ‘“Dockmaster Tim Lynch . Great People
      Flay Crosswell

      We have stayed at both Salty Sam’s in Ft. Myers Beach and Centennial in Ft. Myers for a month and liked them both. People also seem to like the Ft. Myers City Marina. There’s also a mooring field near
      Salty Sam’s but we haven’t stayed there.
      Bill & Jane Stone
      Loose Stones

      Jim We stayed at Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda last year great spot. left the boat and went to the east coast for the holidays Also some have stayed at Burnt Store Marina
      hope this helps
      Enjoy Thanksgiving
      Larry & Margie

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Salty Sams Marina

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fort Myers Yacht Basin

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    • Nov 11, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Good Visit To Tarpon Point Marina (Caloosahatchee River, near the “Miserable Mile.”

      Tarpon Point Marina has undergone quite a transformation over the last few years. Where once there was a marina building out in the middle of a field, crusiers will now find a harbor amidst condo caverns. It’s good to hear (see below) that all this development has not had a negative impact on the marina services.

      Subject: Good Marina
      Cruising News: We just spent the night at the Tarpon Point Marina in Coral Gables, at the beginning of the Okechobee crossing from west to east. This is a first class marina with a professional staff and full ameneties. The approach to this marina is 8\’ plus at MLW, which is important to us as we draw 6\’ which excludes us from a number of marina\’s on the ICW on the west coast of Florida. There is also a great anchorage just outside the marina with near 360 protection and room for at least a dozen vessels.
      Bob & Pat Hutchison
      S/V Maverick

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Tarpon Point Marina

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    • Nov 8, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island, Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor Discussion

      This discussion below is copied from the T&T (Trawlers and Trawlering) Mail List. There is some good advice contained therein about cruising the water of Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor.
      By all accounts, don’t miss Boca Grande. It is our very favorite port of call in all of Florida!

      Subject: Boca Grande
      Cruising News: We will be cruising the West Coast and would like to have recomendation on a marina to call home for a month …mid December thru Mid January In the Boca Grande area
      I would like to hear from fellow cruises what they think
      Thanks
      Larry

      Larry,
      I live in Punta Gorda overlooking the harbor and keep my boat at Burnt Store Marina and was a live aboard there before we purchased our condo. I agree with the comments above, and a key item is will you have a vehicle and will you have the need for an airport. If you have to travel by air you should look at some of the marina’s in Ft Myers. If you are on the hook a lot I see many boats anchored in my front yard by Fisherman Village and dinky up during the day. If you can get a slip in Punta Gorda you can ride a bike to all the stores, including West Marine. If you have a vehicle Burnt Store has nice features, but it is +8 miles the the nearest store. The staff there is very friendly. South Seas Resort is nice (and very expensive), but they have removed the the channel markers as noted on charts. You can come in from the gulf or call them on the radio and they can tell you how to come in from the ICW. A place not as expensive, but a place my wife and I go to is Tween Waters on Captiva Island south of South Seas. From the dock to the beach it is about 300 yards. They do have monthly rates but the docks are not protected like the the other marinas in the area, but a good place to spend a few days. It is a 45 minute drive to the airport and has service to get you to the airport as Captiva is a resort location. You may find some one in Punta Gorda who will rent you a place in their back yard, as Punta Gorda is a boating community. If you do that, make sure they have sail boat access as the houses on the inside have to clear a bridge that are approximately 13 feet of clearance. Good luck and enjoy our part of the world.
      Adden

      Larry,
      I’m surprised that there has been very little mention of Laishly Marina. It is right downtown [in Punta Gorda], brand new and within walking distance of everything except Publix (approx. 2 mi.). Fisherman’s Village is great for it’s concentration of shops and restaurants and about a 15 minute walk to downtown. The quality restaurants, however,are downtown. Either way, you can’t lose.
      Eric Norlin

      Larry:
      Other choices might be Palm Island Marina (Cape Haze), Burnst Store Marina, Fishersman’s Village. We can give you a number of recommendations as we live in the area. One question is since you are leaving the boat, are you flying out of the area of driving?
      Steve and Gina Smith
      Island Time

      Larry:
      Boca Grande is a cute little town. There are two marinas worth considering. The high end place is Boca Grande Marina. Nice docks, the only place for diesel, expensive, arrogant staff. The low end is Whiddens Marina. Laid back, no amenities and cheap.
      The town is a delight and either marina is within walking distance of everything.
      David

      I might add that at Boca Grande the lil grocery is rather expensive and if you wish to go off-Island you will need a car and to pay the expensive toll upon returning each time. All of the other marinas mentioned will require transportation for shopping or doing much exploring. You might consider Ft. Myers Beach which has a transportation system you can use.
      Boca is delightful although has lost a lot of its charm as the local fisherman struggle to maintain property on the island due to taxation created by the demand of the weathy who are pushing out the more local populace. Not to say it isn’t nice it is, just not like it use to be. There are also smaller not well known local marinas in the Englewood area you might get into. The backcountry of Charlotte Harbor around Boca and Pine Island and Sanibel is delightful for inshore fishing as is the Boca Grande pass. You might consider checking out the Marinas on Sanibel and Captiva south of the Boca Grande pass.
      The marinas in Boca usually have space, the others mentioned, in the past, have been full with a waiting list, don’t know about the effect of current
      economic conditions.
      Wayne & Lynn

      Larry,
      Recommending a marina is a lot like recommending a wife. A lot depends on the intended use.
      If you need to be near an airport, Tampa, Sarasota and Ft. Myers can accomodate you although Tampa will probably win hands down on number of
      available flights and number of cities served. If you want some “city life” Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Ft. Myers will all
      accomodate you.
      Boca Grande is one of our favorite places to be. Gasparilla Marina is on the mainland, just across the bridge. Good storage facility but not much for
      liveaboards. On the island, Uncle Henry’s on the N end and Boca Grande Marina (formerly Miller’s) near the village are nice but pricey. Welcome to Boca Grande. As a fellow Krogen owner once told me, “All the damn rich folks are running us millionaires off the island”!
      Burnt Store marina is nice but remote. Fisherman’s Village is located in the small town of Punta Gorda.
      Regards,
      Randy

      A buddy of mine strayed for a month at Cape Haze Marina in Englewood. Said it was cheapest around. I believe him since he is truly cheap. I visited once and it was not bad at all.
      RC

      Hello Larry!
      I lived in Punta Gorda for over 17 years and always enjoyed going to Boca Grande by car or by boat. The marinas there are very expensive…and the other reply didn’t mention uncle Henry’s at the north end. While the island is full of charm I would NEVER recommend trying to stay there for more than a night or two.
      Directly opposite Boca Grande Pass by 10 miles is Burnt Store Marina which is also very nice, but it is another 10 miles to the grocery store! OK if you rent a car. Another 10 miles up Charlotte Harbor is Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda…a delightful town. I would put this marina as #1 for your needs.
      If you want the best beach around, Boca Grand is it, but there is just so much to do on the little, very exclusive town. If you are at Fisherman’s Village, rent a car and still enjoy that beach!
      Or go on down to Ft. Myers.
      Marge

      If you don’t mind being near the city, look at Legacy Harbour Marina on the Caloosahatchee River at Ft. Myers. It’s the cleanest, nicest marina in the area, great facilities and has a large, very friendly live aboard group. Grocery stores, shopping and night life are within walking distance. Just no beach.
      Jim

      I would recommend you consider Fisherman’s Village in Punta Gorda, just up from Boca if you’ll be staying on board. Right in a charming little town with shopping nearby. Boca is wonderful but you need a car to get to any shopping for groceries, etc.
      Garland

      Gasparilla Marina is another alternative. Also, Laishley Marina in Punta Gorda.
      Lynne & Rich

      I was at Boca Grande Marina in mid October. I found the staff to be very nice. You can rent a golf cart from the marina to get around town. The overnight dock fees are a bit costly for what you get. The showers/ land head are shared with the entire dock and not locked. The girls thought that to be a real draw back’¦One big note about Boca Grande’¦.We were there on a Sunday and most all the shops in town were closed.
      We’ve stayed at Palm Island Marina twice on our recent trip. Great place, great staff and reasonable dock fees. The `local’ store for supplies is about 2 miles away. Talk to the staff, they may be able to help you with transportation.
      Also have been to Burnt Store’¦ really nice marina and again very reasonable. Nice staff.
      If you’re going to be in the Pine Island Sound area, you have to stay at least one night at South Seas Resort/Marina. The dock fees are high but it’s a top notch marina. Treat yourself to this place. If you’ve got females on board, they’ll love it!! Everything about the place is first class..
      Have a great cruise!
      Blake

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    • Nov 3, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Deeper Water Found While Entering Pelican Bay Anchorage (Statute Mile 25)

      The popular Pelican Bay anchorage lies just south of Boca Grande Pass, and indents the eastern side of Cayo Costa island. This undeveloped barrier isle is a Florida State Park, and we have always found it to be absolutely delightful!
      On the other hand, I’ve seldom been able to find more than 4 1/2 feet at the entrance at MLW. My good friends at the Isles Yacht Club in Punta Gorda have recorded detailed navigational records as to the best way to enter Pelican Bay.

      We followed the directions here and managed to ease into the anchorage. We have a 5′ 8’³ draft and entered on a tide that was 0.9′ above MLW. Our lowest depth reading was 6′. We anchored in 7′ to 8′ of water and enjoyed the park and the anchorage. (10/31/2009)
      s/v John Galt
      Tayana 37

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay Outer Anchroage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay Park Service Dock Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchroage Directory Listing For The Pelican Bay – Punta Blanca Island Anchorage

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    • Nov 3, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      York Island Anchorage (Southern Pine Island Sound, Statute Mile 5)

      Anchoring off the southern shores of York Island, which lies just north of the “Miserable Mile” section of the Western Florida ICW, has always been a fair weather event for this guy. If the weather co-operates though, this is a beautiful spot to spend an evening on the water!

      We anchored here and found the holding fine, plenty of room and not much traffic to rock the boat. It was a nice place. We expected a front to come through but we ended up with just a slight breeze.
      s/v John Galt
      Tayana 37

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Directory Listing For The York Island Anchorage

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    • Nov 2, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      South Seas Resort Plantation Has New Entrance Channel (St. M. 13.5)

      If memory serves, and sometimes it does not, this is the second time that the South Seas channel has been altered within the past two years. All skippers bound for this popular port of call need to take note!!!

      Subject: South Seas Resort New Channel
      Cruising News: South Seas Resort on Captiva Island has a new channel configuration. The new channel is a “dog leg” arrangement that starts at Red Fish Pass and goes to the ICW’s marker #38. At the ICW end you will see red #24 that starts the channel heading West to South Seas. So be sure to take the red markers on your port side heading to the resort. I was in there on Oct.19, 2009 and did not see less than 6.5 feet through the entire channel. Also local knowledge states that Red Fish Pass has at least 6′ of water and is passable again.
      Enjoy
      Blake

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    • Sep 28, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cortez Cove Boatyard & Marina (near Statute Mile 87)

      Here’s one I did not know about, but after a conversation with “Southwinds” magazine publisher, Steve Morrell, I learned the entrance to the facility described below, cuts to the east, south of the Cortez Bridge.

      Subject: Cortez Cove Boatyard & Marina
      Cruising News: We recently had a bottom job done at Cortez Cove Boatyard & Marina in Cortez, FL across the ICW from Anna Maria Island just south of Tampa Bay. We highly recommend this yard to fellow cruisers. They did an excellent job of prepping and painting. AND they allowed us to stay aboard while \”on the hard\”, something that many yards don\’t allow and very important to us as full-time cruisers. The staff was very friendly and accomodating, knew what they were doing, worked quickly and didn\’t \”run up the work hours\”, etc. The price was in line with other yards in the area but the meticulous work was more than worth what we paid!
      Larry Sherman

      I e-mailed Captain Sherman and asked for more definite access instructions to Cortez Cove Boatyard. He graciously responded below:

      Claiborne,
      Here is the additional info you requested:
      The Cortez Cove Boatyard and Marina is located just south of the Cortez Bridge (a couple of miles north of Longboat Pass) on the mainland side of the west coast ICW at about statute mile 87. The coordinates for the marina are 27 degrees 27.95 minutes north, 082 degrees 40.97 minutes west.
      Immediately south of the Cortez bascule bridge turn east off the ICW and then go through the anchorage, past the Coast Guard station, past the A.P. Bell seafood company docks (close to the docks) and you will then see a well marked private channel. Where the channel forks take the channel to port into the boatyard’s basin.
      Larry Sherman
      s/v Enchantress

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