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    • Dec 6, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      “Fat Alberts” As Seen From the Cudjoe Channel – Tarpon Belly Keys Anchorage

      The Cudjoe Channel cuts south from the so-called “Back Route” leading from Marathon to Key West. This interesting passage cuts north past Pine Key, and then out into the open waters of the Gulf. At this point, mariners heading for Key West, turn to the (you guessed it) west, and skip along off the northern face of the undeveloped Keys, until reaching Northwest Channel, which leads, in turn, to the many delights of Key West.
      There are numerous anchorage possibilites off the “Back Route” after turning to the west. Cudjoe Channel is one, but this anchor down spot has the interesting advantage of often affording a view of the “Fat Alberts.” These are massive weather/radar ballons that the US Navy flies at the end of a long, long tethers from Cudjoe Key. The only trouble is they sometimes break free, and the Navy has to scramble a couple of fighters out of nearby Boca Chica Key to shoot them down, lest they drift into Cuban airspace      .

      Just a note about Fat Albert. It has a diesel generator in it so they have to bring it down every so often to fill the diesel tank. it can fly in up to about 60 MPH winds so it is not that dependent on the wind speed. it is also interesting how often it points in a different direction than the wind direction at sea level.
      Captain Rick

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    • Dec 2, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Angelfish Creek, December, 2009 Report

      I don’t think any body of water in the Florida Keys has garnered more postings here on the Cruiser’s Net than Angelfish Creek. Some, like Captain Holm below, have no problem, while others have had an unfortunate encounter with an “underwater rock.”

      Subject: Angelfish Creek
      Cruising News: We went out through Angelfish Creek 2 days ago, with some trepidation after all the negative reports and our C-Map based plotter showing 3 ft depths.
      Two hours after HW on the ocean side, our lowest depths were over 8 ft on the inside and over 7 feet on the ocean side. It is wide, well marked and straightforward.
      Doug Holm
      Acme Cat – Nonsuch33 with 5.5 ft draft

      We have been through Card Sound/Angelfish Creek 2 times now and the depth is great. We draw 5 ft. and have not had any problems. We also were concerned about the depth and acquired local knowledge and were told that there was not a problem for our draft. On Christmas Eve 2009, we set out with 20 knot headwinds and stayed in the middle of the channel and followed a 120 foot Lazarra out through the channel an hour before high tide and found 7 ft. where the chart and chartplotter showed only 4 ft. We went to Carysfort Reef and tied off to a mooring ball and had a rough 20-25 knot East winds until 7 a.m. when they became southeast to east at 10-15 knots. We were prepared to make our crossing to the Bahamas from there, but elected not to go from there on Christmas Day, due to the 5 foot seas. We returned to Angelfish Creek and anchored in 10 ft of water and are staged for the next weather window to make our crossing to Gun Caye. The current in Angelfish has not been in issue in the two days that we have been here. We did however observe numerous crab trap floats from the exit to Angelfish to the Atlanti Shelf. Our concern leaving at Midnight was that we wouuld foul our prop and if we decide to leave from the mouth Angelfish at midnight, then it will be necessary to post a crew with a spotlight at the bow for approximately 4 miles to the shelf. The advantage of going to Carysfort Reef (7 miles south of Angelfish Creek is that there are free moorings for the night and behind a reef for protection and has 2-4 feet below the surface.
      Bill & JoAnne

      Another helpful site for weather reports of wind is: http://www.windfinder.com
      Bill & JoAnne

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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 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      NOAA Proposes New Vessel Discharge Regulations for the Florida Keys

      The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) proposes to amend the regulations for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) to require the marine sanitation devices on vessels operating within the NMS be locked to prevent discharges. Comments on this proposal should be submitted by February 17, 2010. 74 Fed. Reg. 58923 (November 16, 2009). Note: Because the seaward boundary of the FKNMS extends some miles offshore, this proposal could impact passing commercial and transiting vessels.

      http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-27453.pdf

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    • Nov 12, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Transient Moorings Available at Coconut Grove Sailing Club (Maimi – Dinner Key, St. M. 1094.5)

      Coconut Grove Sailing Club is the southernmost of the facility’s set along the Miami – Dinner Key – Coconut Grover waterfront. They feature a well sheltered harbor, and, if my own experience is any judge, some of the friendliest folks you will ever find!

      Subject: Transient Moorings at Coconut Grove Sailing Club
      Cruising News: CGSC has transient moorings available for sailboats up to 40FT. $35/night, includes 24 hr. Launch, Bath/Showers, dinghy dock, BAR and Restaurant available to guests… Safe Protected moorings convenient to Coconut Grove. Website: www.cgsc.org
      Marc Buller

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    • Aug 17, 2009by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      Great On-Line Source For Leased Dockage in the Florida Keys

      The exchange below began as I was following a discussion on the GL (Great Loop) mailing list about “wintering” in the Florida Keys. Then, I picked up this little tid-bit about a GREAT source for discovering private and public docks for rent or lease in the Florida Keys:

      If you wish to cruise the Keys, then I suggest you log on to the Florida Keys “Keynoter” which has an extensive listing of public and private docks that are available for lease.
      Martin I. Veiner

      So, I e-mailed Captain Veiner, and asked him if he could supply the URL for the “Keynoter.” He responded immediately:

      Claiborne,
      The URL for the Florida Keys Keynoter is:

      http://www.keysnet.com/190/index.html

      This section usually grows to about three pages in season.
      It’s a pleasure to provide you with info after all the good stuff you have shared with Trawler List. I love your guides, except that, keeping Cruising The Florida Keys current is a full time endeavor.
      Martin Veiner

      Our thanks to Captain Veiner for supplying this great on-line directory of for-lease dockage in the Florida Keys! If you are looking for this sort of mooring, look no further.

      A really useful idea. I have been wondering how to find something similar for northern areas. How about starting that for everywhere?
      Bruce

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Bruce -  August 28, 2009 - 7:41 pm

        A really useful idea. I have been wondering how to find something similar for northern areas. How about starting that for everywhere?.

        Reply to Bruce
    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Boca Chita Key Marina and Visitors Center (Biscayne Bay, Statute Mile 1106)

      The Boca Chita Key Marina and Visitor’s Center lies a short hop off the Inside/ICW channel, south of Dinner Key. This facility is part of the Biscayne Bay National Park. I’ve always found holding good depths from the Waterway to the dockage basin, to be a bit of challenge.
      More on this facility at: /8-boca-chita-key-marina-and-visitors-center

      June 2009: Took 52 foot cruiser in with five-foot draft but waited for a +1.0 foot tide which gave me a foot or more under the keel. Good wall with cleats for tie up. No power or water. $20 charge per night. Mosquitoes found us quickly even in middle of day. Kind of funny to watch boat loads of weekenders arrive in bathing suits, haul coolers and grills from open boats to picnic tables, and then start swating with vigor. Some left quickly. Reminds me of the Everglades in Summer. We hid inside in the air conditioning for two days and then escaped with most of our blood left. Much nicer, I am sure, in cooler, dryer weather.
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Boca Chita Key Marina

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    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cudjoe Key – Tarpon Belly Keys Anchorage (Back Route from Marathon to Key West)

      Here are some good words concerning another of the possible anchorages avaiable off the “Back Route” from Marathon to Key West. This one requires a longer trek off the main route to Key West, but if you want to drop the hook where few have been before you, fire up the GPS chartplotter, and give these waters a try.
      More on this anchorage at: /94-cudjoe-key-channel-tarpon-belly-keys-anchorage-2

      June 2009. Anchored off Tarpon Belly Key. First attempt to anchor failed, but found good holding further out from the key in deeper water. Lots of current thru here carrying grass that found its way to my sea strainers. Feels wide open but is sheltered by all the surrounding flats. Very easy to find your way in and depths are pretty much as shown on chart. Watch for `Fat Albert’ baloon that flys from a cable nearby to put radar high in the sky. We noticed that when they bring Albert down, the wind may soon blow hard.
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Cudjoe Key – Tarpon Belly Key Anchorage

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    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Harbor Channel Southern Anchorage (“Back Route” from Marathon to Key West)

      The Harbour Channel, Southern Anchorage is one of many possible overnight havens lying along the so-called Back Route from Marathon (and Moser Channel) to Key West. This anchorage lies near the point where the marked cut rounds Harbory Key Bank Light, and then skips along its way off the Keys’ northerly banks as you cruise to Key West.
      Personally, I would only try to enter the Harbor Channel by using a GPS chartplotter. There’s a lot of unmarked shallow water nearby!
      More about this anchorage at /89-harbor-channel-southern-anchorage-2

      June 2009. More sheltered than one might think due to shallows. Holding good after trying a couple of spots. Enjoyed 41 mph breeze in middle of thunderstorm at night with no problem. Fair amount of current. Lots of grass collected in sea strainers for generator and air conditioning requiring cleaning once per day. Plenty of room. No issues for 52 foot cruiser with 5 foot draft. One of the better anchorages if you follow the ICW route on the Florida Bay side of the Keys from Marathon to Key West. No problem carring 5 foot draft on that route.
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Harbor Channel Southern Anchorage

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    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Bahia Honda Key Anchorage (off Hawk Channel, southwest of Moser Channel and Marathon)

      The anchorge hard by Bahia Honda State Park, lies northeast of the low-level fixed bridge. You can dinghy under the bridge, and find your way to the small, basin-line harbor which serves Bahia Honda State Park. Don’t get caught here in strong northern, northeastern or northwestern winds.
      More on this anchorage at: /75-bahia-honda-key-anchorage-2

      June 2009, anchored here two nights. Found fair holding in gras and shallow sand over rock. Good in S, SE, E winds. Exposed in other wind directions. Current not bad. Short ride in dinghy into Bahia Honda Park. As Floridians, we were not impressed with the beach at the park
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Bahia Honda Key

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    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field

      Below Captain Haeseker gives a good account of the facilities, including those just added, avaiable to those who make use of the city of Marathon owned, Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field. Hank also make a pretty good case for staying here!
      More on this facility at:       /74-boot-key-harbor-mooring-field-2

      June 2009, found city-run mooring field to be well operated by very friendly people. Near new showers and restrooms. Laundry facilities ok. Good dinghy dock. Water available at the city dock. You can dinghy to the ENE in long canal to a private dock next to the Publix. Owner will charge $5 to tie up. Otherwise it is a long walk or a short taxi ride. You can also dinghy to the West Marine via canal near bridge that leads to boat yard. No charge to land at designated dock in the boat yard. Good place to be in a blow as moorings are sturdy and well spaced. Pump-out boat is included in price of mooring.
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field

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    • Jul 18, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Matecumbe Bight Anchorage (Inside Route, southwest of Peterson Key Bank)

      Matecumbe Bight is a large, somewhat open anchorage that nestles up to the northwestern shores of Matecumbe Key, on the large bubble, south-southeast of the ICW’s unlighted daybeacon #97. I would not want to be caught here in strong northern or northwestern winds.
      More info on this anchorage at: /56-matecumbe-bight-anchorage-2

      June 2009, found good holding and depths as shown on chart.
      Hank Haeseker


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Matecume Bight

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    • Jun 20, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      New Powerline Anchoring Law ???

      Is anyone else aware of the “new law” described below by Captain George below.?If so, please share what you know by sending e-mail to me at CruisingWriter@CruisersNet.net.

      Subject: Power Line Anchoring Law
      Cruising News: We anchored in Newfound Harbor off Little Torch Key (Near marker #8) In the morning a local sailor in a catboat told us that a new Florida law forbids anchoring within one mile of power lines and carries a $300 fine. We wonder if other readers are aware of such a law?
      George

      Subject: Power Line Anchoring Law – Newfound Harbor
      We were anchored(3 sailboats cruising together) in Newfound Harbor by the R 8 from April 10 to 14,2009. At 11:00 AM on the 14th an FWC Officer approached us with blue lights flashing to inform us that we were illegally anchored. He stated a new law had been passed, because an anchored sailboat drug and had hit the power lines during a storm. He showed us a brochure describing the situation but couldn’t give it to us because he only had one copy. He was friendly in an “official” way and said he had seen us since we anchored but was too busy to come sooner. But since a storm was coming he told us where we could anchor legally.
      The dividing line for masted boats is marked with white PVC poles between Big Pine Key & Little Torch Key.
      Hope this helps.
      Ray H Daugherty
      Who’da Guessed

      Here is the definitive to the question of a “new powerline anchoring law,” provided by Captian Lee Oldershaw, of the Sailing Association of Marco Island:

      Subject: Newfound Harbor Anchoring restrictions
      Cruising News: Newfound Harbor is the only area in the state where the FWC regulates anchoring of tall masted vessels because of the mutual danger to powerlines and vessels there.
      Lee

      68D-24.144 Monroe County Boating Restricted Areas.
      (1) For the purpose of regulating the anchoring of vessels in and adjacent to the Newfound Harbor Channel (also known as Pine Channel) within Monroe County, the following boating restricted area is established:
      Newfound Harbor Channel (Pine Channel) ‘“ Anchoring of all sailboats and other vessels with masts is prohibited in Newfound Harbor Channel (Pine Channel), shoreline to shoreline, between Big Pine Key and Little Torch Key, from the centerline of U.S. Highway 1 south to a line drawn from the southernmost point on Little Torch Key to the southernmost point on Big Pine Key (a distance approximately 6,000 feet south of the centerline of U.S. Highway 1). If the overhead power lines are removed, the zone established in this paragraph shall no longer be in force or effect.

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    • Jun 3, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Marathon Marina and Boatyard

      Marathon Marina is the first facility you will encounter, as you cruise from the Moser Channel towards Boot Key Harbor. There was a much earlier posting here on the Net’s “Florida Keys” section about this facility changing its name to “Marathon Cay Club.” Before posting Captains Joe and Sarah’s message below, I called, and found that the name, “Marathon Cay Club” is now defunct, and the name Marathon Marina has been, for the moment, re-instituted. I was also informed that a change in ownership may be in the works for the near future. Stay tuned!

      We spent 11 days at the Marathon Marina at the entrance to Boot Key Harbor between 24 February and 5 March. The marina is pricey at $2.50 per foot and the monthly rate would have been a better arrangement for a stay of more than 10 days. The facilities are a bit run down and in need of some maintenance. For example, nearest power pedestal to our slip didn’t work…shower doors didn’t close…hole in the wall in one shower…rusty nails to hang towels and clothes on instead of clothes hooks…paper towel holders in heads went unfilled for a couple of days, etc.
      The showers, laundry, and heads were closed one day for plumbing problems and there was water backing up from a drain in the floor. We were told the parts for the water pump were back ordered. On the other hand, except for the one day, we didn’t have to wait in line for a shower like the folks on the moorings in Boot Key Harbor.
      There were no trash receptacles near the slips. Trash overflowed the one dumpster in the adjacent boatyard before it was picked up.
      The marina staff was very friendly and helpful…lent us two 30 amp power cords since the nearest working power pedestal was more than 50 feet away…had answers or a recommendation to most of our questions. Free, good quality coffee in the office was a nice plus every morning at eight. The unobstructed view to the west was appreciated and we enjoyed the benefits of the west wind and a personal “sunset celebration” each evening.
      Joe Machado and Sarah Eichler
      S/V Windreka
      Whitby 42 #309


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marathon Marina and Boatyard

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    • May 28, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      New “Dive Site” Established 7 Miles From Key West

      New FL Keys Dive Site:
      The Sinking of the Vandenberg
      Location: 24.27 N, 81.44 W
      by Charmaine Smith Ladd
      A decade-long project in the making by Artificial Reefs of the Keys (ARK) finally became a reality this morning.  At 10:21 a.m., approximately seven miles off Key West ((between Western Sambo and Sand Keys & South of Hawks Channel marker 32), the 522 ft. USS Gen. Hoyt Vandenberg officially became the second largest artificial reef. 
      Following two explosions via well-placed detonators the retired U.S. Naval vessel sank in about two minutes and settled perfectly upright, its keel down about 140 feet on the bottom of the Atlantic. Much of the structure can be reached at only 40-50 ft. below the surface.
      The massive Vandenberg will be a most wonderful addition to the fabulous dive sites of the Florida Keys.  In as soon as a week the new dive site will be open to all. 
      Valeo Films via Keys News offers this video clip of the sinking of the Vandenberg:
      Charmaine Smith Ladd, SSECN's Regional Correspondent for the Florida Keys, bringing you "The Low Down from Down Low."

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    • May 15, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Good Food at Hungry Tarpon – Robbie’s Marina

      Robbies Marina is located on the western side of the long causeway/bridge, joining Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys, in Islanmorada. It’s not the easiest place to get to by water, but you can always anchor up around Lignumvitae Key, and then dinghy into Robbies.
      For years, the attraction at Robbies has been to purchase a bucket of bait fish, and then feed the beautiful tarpon which hang around the docks, waiting for a free meal. Now, it looks as if there’s a reason for famished cruisers to pay a call at this facility.

      Subject: Robbie’s marina
      Cruising News: We just came back from a week’s trip to the upper keys. We sailed down from Miami and had a great time. Your latest cruising guide was a big help. We had now issues with water depth, we draw 4.5′. One thing I would like to mention is that after taking the dinghy out to Indian Key we stopped in to visit Robbie’s for some beer and a little gas. We decided to stay a while and eat dinner at the Hungry Tarpon. I was not expecting too much based on the write-up in the current cruising guide, but we were very pleased with our dinners and the experience. The recently new chef, Joseph Sassine is delightful and a master chef. I would highly recommend it for food and atmosphere.
      Bill R.

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    • May 7, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Fiesta Key Marina (Inside Route, hard by Channel Five)

      Another great article from our regular Florida Keys correspondent, Charmaine Smith Ladd. Who knew this small facility had so much to offer?

      May 6th, 2009
      Fiesta Key Marina, RV Park & Campground
      MM 70, Long Key
      Florida Keys
      24° 51.061 N 80° 47.749W
      by Charmaine Smith Ladd
      On Long Key, amidst 28 acres of lush tropical trees and foliage, is a little known place (formerly a KOA Campground) called Fiesta Key. You would think yourself in the Bahamas as you look around at the quaint, brightly colored island setting with the laid-back charm.
      Touting a small marina (jet ski rentals too) and ship’s store, an Olympic-sized fresh-water swimming pool, hot tubs, motel rooms, waterfront bar and grill, internet access, two complete laundry facilities and much, much more, Fiesta Key is a great place to go for a not-so-far-away getaway.
      The marina is for very small boats only. However, immediately west of Fiesta Key, one can anchor at semi-protected Jewfish Hole. A fair-weather anchorage in the winter, Jewfish Hole offers good year-round protection from the East and Northeast (via the shallows outlining Fiesta Key).
      The good folks at Fiesta Key are quite hospitable. They were so nice to us as they allowed us to dispose of our trash, gave us access to potable water, and were extremely gracious in every way. Our dinner there was very reasonably priced, delicious and served with a smile. The people working at Fiesta Key like their jobs and it shows!
      Just let them know you’re anchored out and what you need. Their fees are nominal and their warmth genuine.
      Having access to the amenities of Fiesta Key and knowing that its staff is both friendly and helpful sure gives a new twist to the anchoring out experience. When is the last time you anchored out and were able to get all your laundry done all the while with an ice cold beer in hand and an eye on the Marlins game?
      Fiesta Key is a wonderful escape from the hustle of marina and mooring life to a quiet anchorage with all the anchoring space for as much solitude one could ever want…yet also offers you a taste of the nightlife, dinner out, and all the social minglings if you so desire. It’s all there for you at Jewfish Hole Anchorage and Fiesta Key Marina, RV Park, and Campground.
      Charmaine Smith Ladd, SSECN’s Regional
      Correspondent for the Florida Keys,
      bringing you “The Low Down from Down Low.”


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fiesta Key Marina

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    • May 7, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Crandon Park Marina (Key Biscayne)

      Crandon Park Marina is located on the extreme northerly end of Key Biscayne. It is accessible from the AICW via a marked channel.
      Didn’t know about the cats and buzzards here. Interesting combination!

      On May 4 & 5 diesel price was $2.16 including tax. The rate for transient dckage was $1.25 per foot, plus tax. A $50.00 cash deposit for the gate key. Pumpout was a $5.00 token that you have to buy in the office. The fuel dock and marina offices are under construction and you have to walk to each trailer to pay the bills and the heads and showers were spartan. The feral cat population is dwindling, but they do get on the boats at night and there are still a couple of buzzards around, it seems the cats and the buzzards live harmoniously. Once you figure out the bus schedule, it is an easy trip to Winn Dixie, CVS, Post Office, etc on Key Biscayne. The best part of the marina is the chance to buy fresh fish off the back of the charter boats on the commericial dock – Mahi Mahi was $10.00 per pound and swordfish was $15.00. Lots of people on the piers on weekends, but quiet the the rest of the week. Be sure to organize your time in order to return the gate key when the office is open if you want to get an early start.


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Crandon Park Marina

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    • May 6, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Galleon Marina – Key West

      GREAT report below from Captain Gary Riss, who is normally our correspondent for Western Florida. Obviously, Gary is off cruising the Keys, and we thank him most sincerely for this marina review.
      Note Gary also mention “Schooner Wharf Bar. That is also one of this writer’s favorite Key West haunts. This bar’s motto is “Where you can hang with the Big Dogs.” GREAT place, particularly for cruisers!

      Having spent the last 12 days weather bound by wind at the Galleon Marina in Key West, I think we qualify as fresh water conchs. If you have to be weather bound, there aren’t many better places!
      The dock hands at the Galleon are excellent at shoehorning large boats into small slips. Sometimes there is even room for fenders. Dock hands John, Fred, Susie, Heather and Mike have never met a stranger. They have unbelievable patience with even the inexperienced boater. They make the boat captain look like an old pro. The docks are all floating which makes for an easy exit from your boat. One should absolutely call for assistance when docking because they know all of the tricks for an easy docking experience. Don’t forget to ask for assistance when leaving because the wind and current can also present a challenge.
      One of our favorite places to spend the afternoon is the Schooner Wharf Bar. Michael McCloud performs most days and has a show not to be missed. His music is not exactly G rated, but gives you a good insight into the Key West lifestyle. An island cheeseburger is always welcome when accompanied by an adult beverage.
      Gary Riss
      M/V Far From Normal


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Galleon Marina

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    • May 2, 2009by:   Curtis Hoff No Comments

      Visiting Lignumvitae Key

      Lignumvitae Key sits just off the Inside/ICW route, between Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys, north of the long Indian Key bridge and causeway. This historic and ecologizal attraction makes for a great visit, but, as you will see, the state park operatings here are being cut back at the moment, and only three moorings are available.

      Subject: Lignumvitae Key
      Cruising News: Today we enjoyed an interesting and informative tour at Lignumvitae Key and would like to update you on the current status of this park. Tours have been cut back from 5 to 3 days a week – now only Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 10am and 2pm. We were told this is due to current economic conditions, that many of the Florida state parks are being cut back or closed, and to contact our legislators to help keep our parks open. We also noted only 3 moorings where there used to be 5 (there is also plenty of room to anchor). This is a great stop for anyone cruising through the Keys. We came up from Marathon on the bay side and never saw less than 6 feet.
      Pam and Frank
      aboard s/v Blackfoot


      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Lignumvitae Key Mooring Field

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