Who: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Why: As boating season in Florida gets underway, boaters can choose to have fun and stay safe on Florida’s waters. And the FWC can help.
Background: As the boating capital of the world, Florida leads the nation with nearly 1 million registered vessels across the state and is known as the prime boating spot for residents and visitors. The FWC wants everyone to enjoy boating opportunities safely. It conducts boating safety education campaigns to support this goal by encouraging boaters to wear a life jacket, 360-degree operator awareness and sober boating. FWC officers assist and educate vessel operators year-round.
George is responding to a request for information on Channel Key Pass made several years ago by our friend Captain Charmaine Smith, see /58003. Channel Key Pass allows passage from Gulf to the Atlantic across Channel Key Banks north of Duck Key.
I came through there in August 1992, 2 days after Andrew had swept through Everglade City and pounded me on Marco Island. That leg of my journey, I traveled from Marco Island headed for “someplace” in the keys. As I approached this challenging bit of navigation on the chart, I decided to lower my sails and approach it under power for greater control. Our big difference is that my 25′ Capri only had a 4 foot draft. I must admit, I was so intent upon avoiding the reef (with concern about possible unexpected current shifts), I don’t recall ever checking the depth. After I emerged and approached the Channel 5 Bridge, a coin toss decided whether to head to Key Largo or to Key West. Key West won, but I actually lived at Faro Blanco in Marathon for one year. Considering the damage a reef can do to your boat and vice versus, I would always recommend taking it slow and staying within the markers as close to the middle as possible. George
A big Heads Up! if you are anchored in the Keys. According to this article by Kevin Wadlow in KeyInfoNet on Operation Liveaboard 2016, 210 vessels were inspected and 115 (!!) received citations.
Boat inspections yield dozens of citations BY KEVIN WADLOW kwadlow@keynoter.com March 5, 2016
Marine officers inspected 210 boats during the recent Operation Liveaboard 2016 in the Florida Keys.
Three agencies — the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office — checked waters with the highest density of liveaboard vessels from Key West to Key Largo. It was done over six days in recent weeks.
This whole boating mess in FL is getting totally out of hand. We just spent 3 months in Cape Coral. We had some mechanical issues and spend over $6000,00 on repairs, figure another $1000.00 for boat detailing and $700.00 in marina fees. Add to that car rental, groceries, dining and other items and it all adds up to over 410,000.00. The weather in January sucked, over 12 inches of rain when less than 2 inches is normal. It has reached the point where I have to worry about a visit from the LEO’s every time I move the boat. We have been doing this trip now for 9 years, but next year we may just skip FL. We will be more than happy staying at Jekyll Island for the winter
Skipper Pearsall’s report is the opposite of a 2015 report, see /146935, but facilities and prices at any location can change, see /155306. Mangrove Marina is one of only a very few facilities offering transient dockage on the Florida Keys Inside Route between a point south of Jewfish Creek, and Snake Creek. To access Mangrove Marina, depart the Inside Route just northeast of the Tavernier Creek intersection, between markers #64A and #65. Note that Mangrove Marina also features a full service repair yard!
We’ve been cruising to Mangrove Marina for many years; the rates WERE reasonable, dockmates were (and still are) very friendly, and the location is excellent. NOW, we find rates have gone up after we made reservations, electric is no longer included in the dock rate (they now charge $85/month for 30 amp electric), a swimming pool is only partly completed and is best for mosquito farmers, the “food truck” hasn’t been opened at all since we’ve been here, income seems to be not used at all for maintenance and improvements, parking space has been reduced, and the bathroom/showers haven’t been cleaned in the past few days. Adelle Pearsall
As reporter Branon Edwards relates in this article in the Broward/Palm Beach New Times, HB1051 is being presented today (1/26) by a group of Florida legislators. Bill is reported on 1/27 as passed with 12 Yea votes. Click Here for related opinion.
February 3 UPDATE from our friends at AGLCA Forum
UPDATE ON FLORIDA ANCHORING LEGISLATION An amended version of the HB1051 (now CS/HB1051) passed a committee last week. SSCA and AGLCA members, along with our other boating partners, spoke against the amended bill which included a safe harbor provision and the ability for law enforcement, government boats and rescue boats to anchor overnight. The prohibition on overnight anchoring remained, which we don’t support. We are working to modify that provision. At present calls and emails should be directed to members of the House State Affairs Committee stating the following:
“I am (a Florida resident/Florida tourist) and cruise extensively in Florida waters. I oppose the present language in CS/HB1051 because the bill does not give cruising boats the ability to anchor for a reasonable time while in navigation under federal law. We are also concerned that this bill opens the door for communities to pursue similar legislation without adequate justification which would result in unfair, random and unreasonable anchoring restrictions. A better way to address the issues in these areas is to pursue enactment of a comprehensive mooring/anchoring planning and adoption process that would apply to all communities, not just selected ones.”
If you are a Florida resident, please look at the member list below, if you live in one of the member’s area, you should send a separate note to them stating you are a constituent.
Yachts anchored in Fort Lauderdale’s Middle River basin, which would be illegal if proposed legislation passes. Branon Edwards
BY BRANON EDWARDS TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2016 | 3 HOURS AGO A battle is heating up between rich owners of waterfront property and boaters who, instead of docking, use anchors to keep their boats cheaply (free!) in the Intracoastal Waterway. The rich have argued that these anchored boats ruin their view — especially vessels that have been abandoned and become decrepit. Many boaters, however, contend that they are responsible and have rights to use the waterway.
As they say, “the squeaky wheel gets the grease.” In this case, the squeaky wheel appears to be wealthy property owners along Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway, and the grease is a nasty bit of proposed legislation known in the House as HB1051 and in the Senate as SB1260. Both bills in Tallahassee aim to make it illegal to anchor overnight in parts of the Intracoastal Waterway despite the waterway having been used for this purpose since its inception.
Unfortunately, boaters like to complain and bitch but when it comes to picking up the phone or e-mailing Florida Representatives or Senators, boaters did not care enough to contact the legislators.
K would like to hold to all of you Greg Staub who serves in the Florida House. Greg’s e-mail and phone calls was against the boll and he voted against the bill.
Even now you should contact members of the Florida Senate and House. We dropped the ball on this and now we have to live with it. Plus other communities will want to anchoring areas.
Editor’s comment: Rick’s comments are related to a posting on Edgewater Lake from 2011, but his argument is pertinent to the ongoing discussion of anchoring in Florida.
That is a good point, and only slightly misses the mark. You see, Edgewater Lake has been an anchorage… a Florida FWC designated anchorage, for a long. long time. So in light of this, here is a slightly better analogy. Suppose you spent your hard-earned retirement savings on a Florida home right next to a beautiful campground. One with an unpolluted, peaceful and rustic scenery that would inspire an artist to weep. Then suddenly, in April, some campers and motor homes start parking within your cherished and serene view. Some, of course, only park for a night or two. But others stay for the season. A few even leave their caravans behind and only visit on weekends. Of course this is all within the State legal limits of the camper owner, and the campground. Here is the question: Does the offended home-owner who lost his peaceful view have a legitimate and valid case against the camper owner? Rick Ritchie
OK, let’s be fair and intelligent about this issue. Sure, I can understand the objection to having “plainly obvious derelict boats” permanently moored in view of anyone home, on the other hand, transient boats and those owned by Florida property owners who moor their boats which are well maintained should not have the right, under traditional federal law, taken away. As for transient boat, passing through Florida waters, as a compromise, why not have a time limit, say 1-3 days at mooring, longer for needed repairs. It seems to be forgotten, transients go ashore to replenish supplies and such to spend money in the Florida economy. As for me on my trips to the South coasting along Florida should this a Bill of total mooring prohibition pass, I will prepare to by-pass Florida while sailing off-shore all the way. But, what about refuge in extreme weather? There is a lot of question and considerations in this issue.
For whatever it is worth, I sent the following to Bernie Sanders! Bernie, This is a struggle that should be right up your alley and if you would like my vote for President perhaps you could get involved with this issue. There is a bill in the Florida legislature that is essentially a ban on cruising boat anchoring in safe harbors where the wealthy have big houses and don’t want their views obstructed by cruising boats anchoring there! A very typical 2% kind of mentality. I am making my very first trip on our boat down to Florida this winter from VT and have, in fact, just entered Florida waters. The boating community has asked Florida boaters or visitors to contact the members of the Florida House State Affairs Committee stating the following: (I figured I could do one better by asking you to assist since this is definitely an issue with the wealthy not wanting their nice expensive harbor views to be obstructed.) “I am (a Florida resident/Florida tourist) and cruise extensively in Florida waters. I oppose the present language in CS/HB1051 because the bill does not give cruising boats the ability to anchor for a reasonable time while in navigation under federal law. We are also concerned that this bill opens the door for communities to pursue similar legislation without adequate justification which would result in unfair, random and unreasonable anchoring restrictions. A better way to address the issues in these areas is to pursue enactment of a comprehensive mooring/anchoring planning and adoption process that would apply to all communities, not just selected ones.”
What do you say, Bernie – want to fight for the middle class against the 1 and 2% ers?
I’m pretty convinced that nibbling at the heals of the committees will not be productive. I am a Florida resident, and today, I sent the following to my Florida State Representative. I strongly suggest interested boaters who are Florida residents also contact their home representatives. This will ultimately be adopted or stopped in the legislature as a whole, not in committee.
Letter follows:
Dear Representative Van Zant;
My wife and I are Florida residents of Florida, residing at Green Cove Springs. We use our boat to cruise throughout Florida’s wonderful public trust waters. This bill violates the public trust responsibility that the Florida legislature has to ensure Florida’s waters are available for use by all of her citizens and visitors. This bill favors the selfish aesthetic interests of wealthy waterfront landowners who knew, or should have known when they bought their properties, that boats use waters adjacent to their properties. HB1051 targets small, select and wealthy areas of the state. The bill will create confusion among non-local boaters and confusion will greatly complicate voluntary compliance. Finally, I feel that the safety of boaters could be greatly compromised by what effectively amounts to closure of these anchorages.
Please, Mr. Van Sant, honor the public trust responsibility that goes with your office, and vote against this discriminatory bill which clearly favors big money interests. Please, do not succumb to an act of class warfare by supporting a class-based prohibition. Please support the public trust!
Very sincerely yours,
James B. Healy (914) 466-5829
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL http://gilwellbear.wordpress.com Monk 36 Hull #132 MMSI #367042570 AGLCA #3767 MTOA #3436
Additionally, a vote sheet from the January 26 meeting is below: Bill Number: 1051 Bill Name: CS/HB 1051 Action: Favorable With Committee Substitute Committee: Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee Location: Reed Hall (102 HOB) Duration: 2.00 Date: 1/26/2016 12:00:00 PM Sponsor: Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee and C… Subject: Recreational Boating Zones
Y Boyd Y DuBose Y Lee Y Smith Y Sullivan Y Combee Y Edwards Y Pilon Y Stevenson – Watson, C. Y Drake Y Goodson Y Raburn
Total Yeas: 12 Total Nays: 0 Total Missed: 1 Total Votes: 13
Guys, I sent 51 e-mails to Florida Legislators using the e-mail posted below, Google Chrome as my browser and Chroamie(???) which automatically fills out the blanks on their forms in 21 MINUTES!
I just sent this to my Florida State Representative. Took less than 5 minutes.
Would you please vote against S HB 1051, SB 1260: Recreational Boating Zones
Recreational Boating Zones; prohibiting overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified recreational boating zones, etc.
I keep my 58’ boat behind my condo and do quite a bit of cruising spending Thousands of dollars while I do that. People like me provide a lot of jobs in Florida. This bill is too broadly worded. The real issue is Derelict boats anchored in front of homes. The solution is to have a law defining Derelict boats well enough that either FWC, local police, and the Coast Guard can determine which boats are transient and which are derelict. Once documented by pictures by law enforcement, they can have a contractor who has won a contract to remove the vessels and either sell them or have the owners pay the towing and storage charges. When local officials think that derelict vessels are an issue then they can award a contract to a contractor for the removal of the vessels deemed derelict by law enforcement. Otherwise, the State should not be involved in this issue. Since you represent an area full of boaters and homeowners with water views not to mention people and businesses that earn a living from these boaters, I wish you would inject some sanity into this highly emotionally charged issue. Sincerely,
Guys, Bitching on here has no effect. Go to http://www.flsenate.gov/Senators/Find pick either your state senator in Florida or pick one along the Intracoastal.
Would you please vote against SB 1260, SB 1260: Recreational Boating Zones GENERAL BILL by Simpson Recreational Boating Zones; prohibiting overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified recreational boating zones, etc.
I keep my 58’boat behind my condo and do quite a bit of cruising spending Thousands of dollars while I do that. People like me provide a lot of jobs in Florida.
This bill is too broadly worded. The real issue is Derelict boats anchored in front of homes. The solution is to have a law defining Derelict boats well enough that either FWC, local police, and the Coast Guard can determine which boats are transient and which are derelict. Once documented by pictures by law enforcement, they can have a contractor who has won a contract to remove the vessels and either sell them or have the owners pay the towing and storage charges. When local officials think that derelict vessels are an issue then they can award a contract to a contractor for the removal of the vessels deemed derelict by law enforcement. Otherwise, the State should not be involved in this issue.
Since you represent an area full of boaters and homeowners with water views not to mention people and businesses that earn a living from these boaters, I wish you would inject some sanity into this highly emotionally charged issue.
Sincerely,
Do the same thing. If you want to cut and paste mine, at least you are doing SOMETHING. To the naysayers; what you’re doing is working too, right?
Talk about how much money you spend and how many jobs you help support.
Walk around with your laptop and get everyone you can to do the same thing on your computer. Otherwise they will never do it. When Legislators get a lot of mail on one issue, they usually do pay attention. Yes, wealthy water front homeowners do make political contributions and you don’t. This is the only chance we have
Wait a minute… I thought this issue was resolved a couple of years ago…The ICW is a “Federal” waterway, right? SOFlorida cannot regulate…. what am I missing here?
The ICW was officially commissioned by Congress in 1919 (even though Florida began construction decades earlier). The ICW is maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, under the command of Lieutenant General Todd T. Semonite (2016).
For the following rant, please forgive my cynicism. I actually know several impeccably honorable representatives. They do not seem to be running the show, unfortunately.
This issue will, in all likelihood, years from now, come down to a Federal vs Florida jurisdiction argument– a very short argument– with the obvious outcome. Florida legislators know…. or should know… that the passage of this Bill will, ultimately, be found to be in violation of Federal laws. But It seems to be the ‘way of things, now, for legislators to pass obviously illegal laws (so that they can get those donor dollars) and let the courts deal with their legality, later. After all, is it not the primary job of a legislator to cater to their d̶o̶n̶o̶r̶s̶, I mean constituents, regardless of Federal laws, civil rights, reason and logic? Please forgive my cynicism. I actually know several impeccably honorable representatives. They do not seem to be in the majority, unfortunately.
Perhaps if we got out our wallets and simply out-bid the very small number of squeaky-wheel donors….? “How much would it cost us to kill this, Mr. Caldwell ?” “… Mr. Moraitis?” (Strangely, both Republicans? and one of them a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. Say it ain’t so!)
Rick Ritchie Sailor Occasional cruiser Florida Waterfront resident Conservative (but not always Republican)
Remember, “ask not what your contributions can do for you, ask what you can do for your contributions.”
It does appear the winds from the land have now increased to such a strength they will blow every boat out of the designated water areas at nightfall. In the past anchoring for weeks or months in a single location was acceptable. Today it’s not. Florida state owns the land under the waterway and it appears they will bend to the stronger winds. Has anyone suggested a compromise to satisfy the landowners and transient boaters?
The rights of mariners once again fall victim to the dollar. ” It’s so pretty here with the trees and the water and boats! I think I’ll build a house.” So they cut the trees and claim the water for themselves. I’m sure they won’t complain about the “HIGHLANDER” parking overnight.
Just heard the bill passed committee 12 Yeas. I have put my Representative on notice she (Stevenson) can forget my vote come re-election. I will work harder than ever to prevent her re-election. Perry Mc
Key Largo Harbor Marina overlooks the northern banks of Port Largo Canal, hard by this stream’s 90 degree turn to the west.
Just had our 42′ sailboat, Pura Vida, hauled out and the bottom painted and topsides detailed. We can’t say enough good things about the staff at this marina. The owners are there everyday and very active in the operation of the yard. Highly recommend their services, very meticulous and thorough. Very secure 24/7. They are making improvements to the facilities and getting better everyday. It’s never fun to live “on the hard,” but the staff here made us feel at home. Pictures of the haul out and work on or FB page at http://www.facebook.com/OurLifeAquaticPuraVida/ John-Michael on s/v Pura Vida
Interesting letter to the Editor in the Miami Herald addressing the Florida Keys Stewardship Act and its impact on tourism in the Keys which are “the highest per-capita generator of sales tax for the state.”
Keys’ assets need to be valued, protected
Monroe County is the southernmost county in Florida and includes the Florida Keys. Its coastline extends from the Everglades all the way to the Dry Tortugas, encompassing the third-largest coral reef in the world, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, three national parks, five state parks, four national wildlife refuges and three state aquatic reserves. Quite simply, the area’s environmental significance is immense.
DEC 24 2015 – Moored NW of Pumpkin to shelter from 17kts wind from SE. Initially well sheltered, but Wind swung during night to be direct from East and we dragged badly, about 400 yards before I realised at 3 am, even though we were only 150 yards from the island & I would have thought we would be better protected. Good in that I was blown into deeper water but from looking at the anchor flukes the bottom is sand/mud which does not hold well. The wind protection from Snapper is not great, there is enough open water for the wind to get up speed. However lovely location, with dolphins feeding at dusk & super quiet at night tho dawn brings some traffic from Angelfish Key. Iain
Galleon Marina will be the first marina that will come abeam to your starboard side as you enter Key West Bight. This facility has an excellent reputation, and it certainly lies right in the heart of Key West!
Stayed over Christmas . Helpful staff, patient at directing me to a berth between the riprap and the pontoons, which I didn’t think could be the way in as it was so narrow. Never did get my iPad to hook up to the wifi, which the marina staff know is an issue for Apple products. They gave me a number for tech support, but of course on the afternoon of 24 December I never got a call back before leaving on the 27th. The Windows laptop did connect, but service was slow. Can’t believe their tech guys can’t figure it out. Resort bar good for sundowners after a dip in the large pool and the hot tub. Tom Syrett
The entrance channel to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Marina is found off Hawk Channel, on the east side of Key Largo, at flashing red marker #2 which lies west, northwest of Hawk Channel marker #35 off Mosquito Bank.
I needed desperately to get to the pump out at the marina. I called ahead and told them I did not have a lot of experience running the 44 ft catamaran I was sailing thru keys with my family. They told me where to find the pump out dock. I asked about the wind and they informed me it was blowing hard onto the dock. Tough conditions. When I got in they had three captains at the dock to lend a hand. After one aborted attempt we docked well and safely in very challenging conditions. I sat and talked with them all about the exit off the dock and got some great advice. Got off safe and well. They are truly a fantastic group. Cat Hopeful
Angelfish Creek, like Broad Creek just to the north, connects Card Sound and Hawk Channel and sees a lot of traffic, especially large sportsfishing vessels. Capt. Abell is responding to comments made earlier in /?p=100355 on traffic in Angelfish Creek and offers good advice about sharing the narrow, but short channel. See /?p=153759 for a recent Navigation Alert for Angelfish Creek.
As Capt. Copeland stated it is necessary for large sport boats to stay on top to transit this stretch of water’¦ I to captain a 50+ foot sport fish and have a draft of 5′-3’³ and always run through at 25 plus KTS. I sometimes will have to wait for the East channel to be clear before shooting though and every once and a while there is someone in a center console that just doesn’t get it and we will meet in the worse possible spot’¦ I cannot stop as it would result in disaster, so please pay attention to the larger boats up on top transiting Angelfish creek, we’re not trying to show off, only trying to get through! Wes Abell
The problem with Captain Wes Abell’s argument is that we all have experience on the water. That experience includes encounters with large sport fish vessels. In the overwhelming number of cases, that experience is negative. I am always surprised when I encounter a polite sport fish captain. Appreciative, definitely, but surprised. Wes, it’s your colleagues that give you a well-earned lousy reputation. I agree with the other poster that said, if you can’t manage that passage safely, find another route. Inconvenient, but what if you hurt or kill that dummy center console operator that “doesn’t get it?” If I were on that jury….
I admittedly am not familiar with the Anglefish Creek transit. I am familiar with rules of the road and have a modicum of common sense. If a sport boat, NEEDS, to stay on plane to transit a body of water common sense would dictate that an alternate route should be pursued. It would seem, from looking at the map provided, that Broad Creek is an available alternative. One thing not mentioned but should be made abundantly clear is that the captain of a boat is RESPONSIBLE for his wake. This is proven law. Should a sports boat, pursuing a shallow channel need to stay on plane to transit that channel he is responsible for ANY damage caused by his boats wake. The reason is no release of that responsibility. A recent 2015 BoatUS Seaworthy magazine article, I believe, related a story of a sport boat who’s wake overturned a Jon boat and the sports boat was held responsible, even though there was NO, No Wake zone, for the damage caused to the Jon boat and it’s occupants. You ‘need’ to run through a narrow channel, make sure you understand it could become a costly run.
I don’t doubt that the sportsfisher captains honestly believe that running on plane is essential, but I wonder if any actual measurement has been done to see if this belief is correct? What is the actual draft of their vessel at plane versus at hull speed; what is the actual depth at the entrances? Sure, I’d avoid ruining a $40,000 prop, but I wouldn’t place others at risk of injury or death to do so.
A phone call to John Pennencamp Coral Reef State Park (305-451-6325) confirms that anchoring outside the mooring field is not allowed and there is no monthly rate for the mooring balls. The daily rate, including taxes and Monroe County fees, is $21.85. Sorry Jeff! Largo Sound in the State Park lies between Key Largo and El Radabob Key off Hawk Channel. The Sound is accessed through narrow South Sound Creek (which also allows access to the marina associated with the Park) at the tip of Lower South Sound Point.
Largo sound does not appear to be part of the Monroe county pilot program. It would seem it’s no problem to anchor then under current laws? Do they have a monthly rate on the moorings? Jeff Goff
Wonderful! So simple. That helped me a lot. I would like to share with you a great service to fill a form online. BTW, if anyone needs to fill out a a form, I found a blank fillable form here http://goo.gl/Kg7QDU
How do they justify banning anchoring in violation of state law? Key Largo is not part of the pilot program and the only local ordinances on anchoring allowed under current state law are those that are specifically included in the 5 pilot programs? Regards, Jeff Goff
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.
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.
Skipper Hoff is responding to a reader’s earlier inquiry about ports to visit on the east coasts of Florida, the Keys and the Bahamas. There are great suggestions here.
Regarding other locations – we have only stayed at Marathon overnight so can’t really say much about it. We have spent more time at Islamorada, Key Largo and Biscayne Bay, almost always at anchor. We tend to like either remote (Biscayne Bay, Dry Tortugas, etc.) or interesting cities (Key West) – but that is our preference. Biscayne Bay is a place we like to hang out at anchor – swimming, kayaking, walking the beach, etc.
As you head north we time a stop at West Palm Beach for their Farmers’ Market – one of the best, if not the best, on the east coast and my wife has made me stop at all of them from Maine to Key West. They have a large free day dock we spend all day at then move a couple 100 feet off to anchor for the night – all the benefits of a marina with none of the cost. Let me know if you plan to stop there and I can give you further advice since the peak current can be strong.
Downtown Ft. Lauderdale (New River) is also an interesting spot – a world away from relaxing in the Keys but interesting to see 100+ foot yachts go by one after another. Good restaurants, interesting people watching, reasonable dockage, etc.. Easy spot to have people arrive and depart from since the airport is very close by.
If at all possible we try to run outside from Ft. Lauderdale to Lake Worth (just north of West Palm). Otherwise along the ICW there are bridges, bridges and more bridges – plus some crazy boaters. Combine these and it doesn’t make for the most enjoyable travel. However the benefit of inside along the ICW is looking at the huge houses with their 100+ ft yachts docked outside.
You will probably leave from Lake Worth to cross to the Bahamas. This is where the weather is most important – don’t even consider it with any form for NE wind the day you go or during the previous few days. A few years ago I helped a friend bring a brand new 69 ft Nordhavn back after their maiden voyage crossing in 25 kt NE winds. He said it tossed the 250,000 lb boat around like a cork plus stood it on end a few times – he said they were never sicker in their lives (very experienced boaters having taken a 55 ft Nordhavn all the way to Alaska and back around to New England). His wife wouldn’t do the return crossing so I helped him. Last time I crossed with my Fleming we waited five days for good weather and finally went in what we thought would be ok weather – ended up with 15+ footers out the Gulf Stream – not fun. On the other hand my return crossing on the Nordhavn was ~1 footers – all depends on the day.
We have only spent time at West End in the northern Bahamas so I can’t say anything about the Abacos. We have spent an entire winter in the southern Bahamas and enjoyed it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
Marathon Marina and Boat Yard lines the northern banks of the western Boot Key Harbor approach channel, west of the now permanently open bascule bridge.
We have stayed here several times and love it. The pool has the best view around and the people are friendly. Brought the boat down from Naples and booked a month and will go back and forth. I would recommend this marina highly. Nancy Meyers
Marathon Marina and Resort has become my winter base of operations. Great staff and continual improvements make this place special. Every accommodation you could wish including a heated salt-water infinity pool. Highly recommend to friends and strangers.
This excellent article on derelict boats by Kevin Wadlow was taken from KeysInfoNet.com. The problem of abandoned boats is not limited to the Florida Keys but found up and down the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.
Boats like this are scattered throughout the Keys.
No easy answers for derelict-boat problem BY KEVIN WADLOW kwadlow@keynoter.comAugust 15, 2015 State marine officers pointed to notorious derelict-vessel cases in Florida Keys waters as prime examples of the need for new rules.
“We see a lot of red dots in Monroe County,” said State Rep. Holly Raschein (R-Key Largo), referring to a state map showing 304 derelict vessels off Florida shores.
“Obviously it’s an issue here,” Raschein said at a Thursday workshop conducted by the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center in Key Largo.
Removing derelict vessels “costs a lot of money,” she said, “and they’re a pain.”
FWC officers and staff outlined eight concepts being considered as the basis for a Florida Legislature bill to prevent some poorly maintained boats from sinking at anchor.
The rules could include stricter requirements to repair at-risk boats deemed likely to sink and requiring boats to be able to navigate on their own under power or sail.
Certain large boats — commercial boats more than 65 feet long or older boats made of wood or steel — could be required to post a bond at registration, since those type of vessels are very expensive to remove after a sinking.
“Some boats cost more than others to remove,” FWC attorney Emily Norton said. “The big ones cost a lot more.”
Program administrator Phil Horning noted boats in that description represent 3 to 5 percent of vessels removed with state money but “represent 50 percent of the removal costs.”
In 2009, the abandoned 84-foot gambling boat Pair-O-Dice was removed from a grounding off Key West, where it created a navigation hazard near a busy channel for months, state officials said. It was removed at a state cost approaching $125,000.
The derelict shrimp boat Santa Lucia caused a half-mile of seagrass scarring near the Keys in addition to costing $59,000 in state funds to remove, Horning said. A photo of the capsized shrimper opened the presentation to a crowd of about 50 people.
Many of the concepts would apply only to anchored boats, not those tied to a private dock or marina.
Rules that could force longtime liveaboards off the water concerned several speakers at the Key Largo meeting.
“Thousands of people down here cannot afford normal accommodations,” said Jon Strydom, a charter captain. “This is a really expensive area to live in, and we need these people down here. It’s already hard enough for them.”
“We don’t want to make anybody homeless,” FWC Capt. David Dipre said, but he noted that some vessels used as liveaboards are “half submerged and filled with cockroaches.”
“It might be a place to live but its not a great place to be,” Dipre said.
Vessels “are supposed to be operational so when [the next] Hurricane Wilma comes along, you can do something about it and take control of your own boat,” he said.
Henry Feddern and Anne Baxter said the state should consider some long-established sunken boats as part of the marine environment since they provide shelter. They pointed to the recent removals of a sunken barge off Rodriguez Key near Key Largo and a heavily damaged houseboat off the Upper Matecumbe Key bayside as examples.
Results of resident surveys taken at a series of meetings will be used to craft legislative proposals.
Now, here is a solution: Derelict Bounty Hunters! Listen Up FWC!
Track down the owners and make them pay. Fine them and I will track them down for 50% of the paid fines. Bounty hunters for boats! Sonny Reeves
And here is another great idea from Skipper Burnham. Listen up FWC!
Give the general public access to state boat registration database so that we can contact the owner based on the FL number as it is bearing down on us when no one is aboard. Then there will be no problem about finding out who is the responsible owner. You will be able to know your neighbors soon after dropping your anchor just like you can by viewing the county property tax website for your home based on your street address. David Burnham
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Comments from Cruisers (7)
Peter Hoyt- October 17, 2015 - 3:54 pm
When a boat is registered it should be required to be fully insured, then if it sinks or goes ashore it’s an insurance company that must remove it. Peter Hoyt
The state should act to remove the boats and have them auctioned or otherwise disposed of. It is the state’s responsibility to keep the waterway clear. Just do whatever is cheapest and most cost effective. I agree that the owners should be tracked and fined. The Floriida legislature should make it a crime to abandon a boat in a public waterway.
clean out the hulls of the derelicts and remove fuels and other hazards. then tow them out offshore and sink them to form artificial reefs. finally bill the last registered owner for the expense. updating the law to allow vessels abandoned for one year as derelict would help.
Give the general public access to state boat registration database so that we can contact the owner based on the FL number as it is bearing down on us when no one is aboard. Then there will be no problem about finding out who is the responsible owner. You will be able to know your neighbors soon after dropping your anchor just like you can by viewing the county property tax website for your home based on your street address.
There is a difference between a maintained vessel and a near-derelict tub. The biggest fear I have is that the FWC and other state and federal regulators are assuming greater adversarial positions than ever, rather than supportive of the marine and cruising community.
Making sure vessels are duly registered and making sure the owners carry their responsibility for it. The last owner should be responsible for damages caused. In other words… Does the vessel have proper papers? Think about that when you’re selling, or buying, a boat.
Another issue to consider….. If your boat is on her last sea-leg…. how do you put her to bed for the final time if she’s not on a trailer?
And, the bounty idea for finding the scoundrels is a good idea, too.
Maybe it’s a sign of our economic times, but loss of any items, valuable or not, will certainly put a damper on a beautiful day in the Keys. This report is from South Dade News Leader.
$5,000 Bounty For Keys Marine Thieves
Posted: Thursday, August 6, 2015 3:55 pm | Updated: 4:15 pm, Thu Aug 6, 2015. Frank Maradiaga Marine thefts are on the rise in Monroe County. Pillaging water crafts and docks for expensive (and easily portable) gear has become an opportunistic gold mine for criminals. To help curb this rising problem the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and Crime Stoppers of the Florida Keys are collectively offering $5,000 dollars for any information that leads to an arrest. That’s $2500 from Crime Stoppers and another $2500 from the Sheriff’s Office. `We really need some help on these cases,’ said Sheriff Rick Ramsay in a statement. `We are doing everything we can possibly do, but we really need people to come forward and help us nail these criminals.’ Thefts can include cherry and costly GPS systems or simple fishing equipment. Basically anything that isn’t tied down and looks appealing. The Sheriff department says they have been `inundated’ with reports of high-end electronics and thefts of lower units. Police say the thefts are occurring countywide but are largely concentrated in the Middle and Lower Keys. From a department release: `Equipment is being taken from boats in residential canals, parked on the street on trailers and from boats stored at marinas. The investigations of these thefts is complicated by the fact that many victims are part time residents who don’t discover they have been victimized for days or even weeks. Additionally, the equipment being stolen is relatively easy to remove, to transport and to sell.’ Photos and some video clips from surveillance equipment are being circulated in the hopes that someone will be able to identify these alleged thieves. `There are people out there who know what is going on. They know who is responsible. We want those people to pick up the phone and report it. You don’t have to tell us who you are. And we will pay you well for your information,’ said Sheriff Ramsay. `It is a win-win for the person who calls. They can make a substantial sum of money and the suspect or suspects they report will never know who turned them in.’ If you think you have the goods on these thieves contact the Sheriff’s Office at 305-481-8060. The Crime Stoppers hotline is 1-800-346-TIPS.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Angelfish Creek
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