Here are the latest Local Notices to Mariners and NAV ALERTS that are relevant to ICW cruising in Districts 5, 7 and 8, the OBX, AICW, OWW, Keys, GIWW and adjacent waters. Open each LNM link for the USCG notice and a chart for each location. Listed north to south to north. NAV ALERTS will also be posted on our Homepage. For previous Weeks, go to the Specific State under Select Region on our Homepage.
GREAT BRIDGE TO ALBEMARLE SOUND WARNING DAYBEACON (LLNR 37595 [36°25.0708N / 075°57.0976W, 36.417847 / -75.951626]) AID IS MISSING. WRECKAGE OF SINGLE PILE STEEL MAY REMAIN AT OR BELOW WATERLINE.
1. BUOY HAS BEEN PLACED WITH NEW MOORING 2 YARDS NORTHWEST OF WRECKAGE IN POS 36-25-04.231N 075-57-05.911W (36°25.0705N / 075°57.0985W, 36.417842 / -75.951642) TO MARK WRECKAGE SAFE WATER.
This shoaling between these ICW buoys appears to be in the mouth of the Waterway’s intersection with Mason Inlet. Mid to high tide is recommended for passage in this intersection where shoaling and shifting channels are very common.
1. MOST RECENT ACOE SURVEY DATED 01JUL24 SHOWS THAT SHOALING COMPLETELY SPANS CHANNEL IVO NEW RIVER – CAPE FEAR RIVER NEAR MASON INLET CROSSING BETWEEN NEW RIVER – CAPE FEAR RIVER BUOY 121A (39598) AND NEW RIVER – CAPE FEAR RIVER LIGHT 122 (39660). NEW RIVER – CAPE FEAR RIVER LIGHT 122 IS DESTROYED AND IS MARKED WITH A TRLB
FLORIDA – AICW – WEST PALM BEACH – FLAGLER MEMORIAL BRIDGE: Temporary Deviation UPDATE: 8/20/2024 The U. S. Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation to drawbridge operation regulation, 33 CFR §117.261(u) that governs the Flagler Memorial Bridge, across Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW), mile 1021.8, at West Palm Beach, Florida. Under this temporary deviation, the Flagler Memorial Bridge will operate as follows: (1) The draw will open on the quarter and three-quarter hour, except that Monday through Friday (except Federal holidays) from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (2) When the security zone is enforced, the draw shall operate as follows: (i) Monday through Friday (except on Federal holidays) (A) 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (B) 9:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. (C) 2:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (D) 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. (ii) Saturday, Sunday, and Federal holidays the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. This temporary deviation is effective from 8:00 p.m. on August 19, 2024, through 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2024. This action is necessary to allow for continuity in drawbridge operations with adjacent drawbridges during federal rulemaking and during Coast Guard enforcement of the security zone. For further information contact Coast Guard Sector Miami, FL, Waterways Management Division, (305) 535-4317, SectorMiamiWaterways@uscg.mil.
FLORIDA – AICW – WEST PALM BEACH – ROYAL PARK BRIDGE: Temporary Deviation UPDATE: 8/20/2024 The U. S. Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation to drawbridge operation regulation, 33 CFR §117.261(v) that governs the Royal Park (SR 704)Bridge, across Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW), mile 1022.6, at West Palm Beach, Florida. Under this temporary deviation, the Royal Park Bridgewill operate as follows: (1) The draw will open on the hour and half hour, except that Monday through Friday (except Federal holidays) from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the half-hour. (2) When the security zone is enforced, the draw shall operate as follows: (i) Monday through Friday (except on Federal holidays) (A) 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., the draw need only open on the half-hour. (B) 9:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., the draw need only open on the hour and half-hour. (C) 2:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the half-hour. (D) 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., the draw need only open on the hour and half-hour. (ii) Saturday, Sunday, and Federal holidays the draw need only open on the hour and half hour. This temporary deviation is effective from 8:00 p.m. on August 19, 2024, through 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2024. This action is necessary to allow for continuity in drawbridge operations with adjacent drawbridges during federal rulemaking and during Coast Guard enforcement of the security zone.
For further information contact Coast Guard Sector Miami, FL, Waterways Management Division, (305) 535-4317, SectorMiamiWaterways@uscg.mil. LNM: 50/23
FLORIDA – AICW – WEST PALM BEACH – SOUTHERN BLVD BRIDGE: Temporary Deviation UPDATE: 8/20/2024 The U. S. Coast Guard has issued a temporary deviation to drawbridge operation regulation, 33 CFR §117.261(w) that governs the Southern Boulevard(SR 700/80) Bridge, across the AICW, mile 1024.7, at West Palm Beach, Florida. Under this temporary deviation, the Southern Boulevard Bridge willoperate as follows: (1) The draw will open on the quarter and three-quarter hour, except that Monday through Friday (except Federal holidays) from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (2) When the security zone is enforced, the draw may be closed without advance notice to permit uninterrupted transit of dignitaries across thebridge. Unless otherwise directed by the onscene designated representative, the draw will operate as follows: (i) Monday through Friday (except on Federal holidays) (A) 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (B) 9:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. (C) 2:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the draw need only open on the quarter hour. (D) 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. (ii) Saturday, Sunday, and Federal holidays the draw need only open on the quarter and three-quarter hour. This temporary deviation is effective from 8:00 p.m. on August 19, 2024, through 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2024. This action is necessary to allow for continuity in drawbridge operations with adjacent drawbridges during federal rulemaking and during Coast Guard enforcement of the security zone.
For further information contact Coast Guard Sector Miami, FL, Waterways Management Division, (305)535-4317 SectorMiamiWaterways@uscg.mil. LNM: 50/23
The National Hurricane Center chart below updates automatically and shows the latest storm positions. Click the chart for the full NHC report. While port conditions are primarily for commercial mariners, they give a strong indication of the Coast Guard’s appraisal of the storm’s severity.
Categories:
Category 1: winds between 74 m.p.h. and 95 m.p.h.
Category 2: winds between 96 m.p.h. and 110. m.p.h.
Category 3: winds between 111 m.p.h. and 129 m.p.h.
Category 4: winds between 130 m.p.h. and 156 m.p.h.
William Kamkwamba was born in Malawi, a country where magic ruled and modern science was a mystery. It was also a land withered by drought and hunger. But William had read about windmills, and he dreamed of building one that would bring to his small village a set of luxuries that only 2 percent of Malawians could enjoy: electricity and running water.
His neighbors called him misala – crazy – but William refused to let go of his dreams. With a small pile of once-forgotten science textbooks; some scrap metal, tractor parts, and bicycle halves; and an armory of curiosity and determination, he embarked on a daring plan to forge an unlikely contraption and small miracle that would change the lives around him.
Scroll down to see event discussion questions.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 Time: 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time Video Conference Log In: https://meet.google.com/mxo-fkqc-owb Phone Dial In #: (US) +1 484-641-8305 Pin:732 637 522#
We look forward to you joining us !
Remember, you don’t have to have watched the film to join in the discussion – though it does help ;>D
The Impact of Setting: If you didn’t know when this story took place, what year would you guess, and what evidence do you have for thinking that? How was the setting of the story, the community where the story took place, different from your community in early 2001? How does the luck of where you were born give you advantages or disadvantages?
The Power of Education: How does the film portray the importance of education, especially in developing countries? What role does education play in empowering individuals and communities? What role does/should the government have in supporting education?
The Role of Family: How do William’s parents and siblings support him, and what obstacles do they face together? What role did their beliefs and traditions play in shaping his path?
The Power of Community: What role does the community play in supporting William’s endeavors? How does their involvement contribute to the success of the windmill project?
Innovation and Adaptation: How did William adapt existing technologies to create a solution to his community’s problems? What does this say about the importance of innovation and adaptability in addressing challenges?
The Importance of Mentorship: What role did William’s teachers play in his development? What does this say about the importance of fostering imagination in young people? How important is mentorship in fostering young people’s potential?
Climate Change and Sustainability: How does the film address the issue of climate change and the need for sustainable solutions? How does the film highlight the devastating effects of climate change on rural communities in Malawi? What are the consequences of drought and famine on the people? What message does it convey about the importance of environmental stewardship?
The Challenges of Technology: What obstacles does William face in implementing the windmill technology? How does he overcome these challenges and adapt to the limitations of his resources?
Social Justice and Equality: How does the film address issues of social justice and inequality? What can be done to create a more equitable world for all?
The Impact of the Windmill: How does the windmill change the lives of the people in William’s community? What are the long-term benefits of the project?
Hope and Resilience: Despite facing numerous setbacks, William never gave up on his dream. How did he overcome these challenges, and what lessons can we learn from his resilience? How does the film inspire hope and perseverance in the face of adversity? How does the film offer a message of hope for the future, particularly in the face of global challenges like climate change and poverty?
Comparing the Book and the Film: How did the film emphasize or downplay certain themes present in the book? Were there any themes that were more prominent in the film or novel? How did these thematic differences affect your interpretation of the story?
Ready to dive in? Your new membership to the Coastal Federation supports:
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The commodity is Purpleheart wood. Interesting information.
SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE ~~ latest addition! Settle back for your Sunday Morning Read. I’m so honored that you’re following along. Thank you.
Please enjoy the latest passages from STEADFAST. As of August 1st, 2024 we are undergoing extensive repair and refit and will be for several months. In boating terms we are hauled out “on the hard.” I plan to mix Sailing Stories with the challenges and intricacies of restoring a 90-year-old Sailing Yacht. I’m always open to suggestions as to content….please feel free to weigh in. Thank you. J
Our first commodity has arrived and is resting quietly, enshrouded in newly purchased canvas, protected, draped carefully and evenly on all sides, to avoid damage from exposure to the elements. Rock solid yet fragile, it will soon be essential in its new environment.
There’s a treasure from Mother Nature under there, enough Purpleheart to repair STEADFAST.
Purpleheart Tree, scientific name Peltogyne, has many variations. This miracle of Mother Nature goes by a plethora of other monikers: Amaranth, Violetwood, Purperhart, Pau Roxo, Pau ferro and the indigenous namesakes, Guarabu, Morado, Tananeo. There are no Purpleheart trees currently on endangered lists and many countries, including Panama and Costa Rica, regulate the harvest to assist in its viability.
Glorious, glowing Purpleheart; the color seems surreal and oxidizes to a more ordinary brown, which interestingly is the color when it is first cut.. In the middle photo, Boatbuilder Duncan MacFarlane planes the raw lumber.
I’m sure this commodity was essential in its old environment, too, near the equator, on another continent, albeit bordering the same mighty ocean. We estimate that this lumber came from an impressive tree at least four feet in diameter and research deduces a height of 130-150 feet with a brilliant, green, protective canopy and thousands of shiny, paired leaves, each turning carbon dioxide back into oxygen for the earth’s unsustainable population. The color and size vary within its vast range from southern Mexico to southeastern Brazil. The main attraction of this beautiful wood is the length of its armless trunk, which can be as much as seventy feet; the single board we purchased was 6” x 12” x 27’. Purpleheart is revered for natural rot and insect resistance as well as strength and hardness, perfect for projects such as ours. The blooms are coveted by bees and beekeepers. Secondarily, its stunning color is used for watch faces, furniture, trinkets and household items.
Although it may seem rare and exotic due to its striking appearance, wood-database.com tells us that it is a durable, long-lasting, stable and sustainable wood species. We are all aware of the centuries-old conflict; man trying his best to survive and earn a living, while preserving resources and forests for both future generations and the innumerable organisms that dwell in them.
To me? This is a truly PRECIOUS COMMODITY. That stack of lumber will save my home. I’ve called myself a ‘Conservative Tree-Hugger’ for decades and claim complete independence from political parties (I simply vote for the best candidate…). Mother Nature’s environment is one of my most pertinent concerns, as my immersion and reliance is deeper than most. I’ve never before chosen to utilize something as potentially controversial as Rainforest hardwood, and I hope there are positive economic effects within one of the poorest nations in South America.
This tree was harvested, we hope responsibly, in Suriname and imported directly by Gannon & Benjamin Marine Railway in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, USA, located on iconic Martha’s Vineyard. I was admittedly surprised at the location of our resource and told our resourceful Boatbuilder (previously employed there) exactly that. Self-described on their website as “a small, flourishing, boatyard whose mission and passion is designing building, repairing, maintaining and sailing wooden boats,” it seemed the perfect place to obtain our wooden boat’s new components.
The 1350-pound slabs of eggplant-purple lumber will hold STEADFAST together and get her to another ninety years. Her stem (the very front piece of any vessel) and her knee (which attaches the stem to the keel, or bottom) were originally built of American White Oak and, while we found rot, it was due to ingress of water and not the quality or choice of the product itself. The most common phrase on this project? “It lasted ninety years. It doesn’t owe anyone anything.” And frankly, most of both of the pieces being replaced are still darn solid. These are the originals.
The knee is on the left, on the right the stem is being removed. Yep, these are essential.
Our second commodity is, perhaps, even more interesting if less exotic and colorful. STEADFAST was built by Brooklyn, New York’s Wheeler Shipyard in 1934; the exterior planking was Old-Growth Long Leaf Yellow Pine, which, according to The North Carolina Division of Parks & Recreation (here) www.ncparks.gov covered millions of acres of the southeastern United States. All harvestable trees experienced that demise by 1930 with the exception of a few in their state parks, one of which is claimed to be a remarkable 473 years old. I was exquisitely curious as to how they would know that about a living tree, but was not able to discern their method of determining such a tremendous and exact age. Does anyone know?
Regardless, we all realize that the natural resources of North America were ransacked upon ‘discovery’, particularly during the Industrial Revolution as it was such a period of massive construction. Prior to that, the British Crown exported many prime products to build warships, which the Colonies then fought against during the Revolution and beyond. The Long Leaf Yellow, also known as Heart or Loblolly Pine, was so strong and plentiful that it was used for everything from factories and railroad ties to boatbuilding. It, like Purpleheart, is naturally rot and insect resistant, allowing many of the beams from textile mills in the south as well as industrial buildings nationwide to be reclaimed. After many dead ends and one strikingly expensive option we were able to track down a true gentleman in Pennsylvania (and were sworn to secrecy) who is currently compiling the 600 board feet required to recreate STEADFAST’s bow with plank materials specified in the 1930’s. Our decision to not use original materials in the knee and stem was influenced by the fact that there aren’t pieces of oak as large as we wanted. You know why; that commodity, too, was overharvested.
Much of the lumber that you see today is Yellow Pine; it grows fast enough to farm and is so resilient that it has become a remarkably renewable resource when well-managed by landowners and lumber companies. The new growth is completely different than the centuries-old giants which fell before any of us were born. The difference between modern lumber and original old-growth is distinctive; note the very tight grain on the left vs a typical new growth plank.
Old Growth is on the left. Most modern lumber looks like the piece on the right. In the 1980’s STEADFAST was refit and some planking was replaced with modern lumber. The bronze at the bottom is our original rub rail, 2” wide.
Is this interesting to you, my readers? I don’t want to lose any of you and hesitated to write a story about lumber until I built this particular paragraph in my mind, standing on the elevated deck of STEADFAST, watching the reflecting pink sunset silhouette a church spire. Here’s the thing. One more thing.
This information about trees is perhaps not relevant to more than a few of you. But what we as curious, present, and forward-thinking individuals, understand and should keep in mind, on a daily basis, ishow much we don’t know. And to me, nearly everything is interesting. “Who knew?” The inquisitive, the explorers, the travelers of the world are humbled, I think, when we realize how much we still have to learn, see, and perhaps experience, not everyone wants or is able to wander the planet.
Many of my favorite Substack comments come from readers who are intrigued or even intimidated by my experiences. Living on the water is understandably not appealing to most. I know we’re a little crazy. Many have had admirable instances of their own and now prefer to read from the comfort of their recliner. I hope, from the bottom of my writer’s soul, that I do an appropriate job transporting people to the rough North Atlantic or a quiet Bahamian beach. That is the writer’s goal, after all, isn’t it? To place the reader precisely where you are describing. No simple task, and I take it very seriously.
Reading can take you places that you have never been or never really wanted to go. It can teach you many things. In this modern age the same thing goes for audio and video, although I’m of the generation that I still prefer to hold a book in my hands for the full, relaxing, transporting, immersion. While I say that, every day I experience all of you electronically and IT’S WORKING WONDERFULLY!
Thanks for being interesting. J
Here’s your weekly sunrise from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, or as I call it now, Merry-land. After all, we’re staying through Christmas….
SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE has taken a bit of a turn from jousting on the deep blue sea with white sand and palm strewn remote islands to an unexpected and long term refit/rebuild. Like all dynamics this world tosses us, we adjust. My work on Substack is the best part of my week. I share my unique world with people who buy in, respond, empathize and contemplate. Please share these stories with others who you think may enjoy them. My telling seems to resonate with a few people and that just brings us all closer to humans in a busy, complicated world. So, simply and importantly said, thank you.
To receive my stories in your in-box please subscribe here. ALL of my content is free and will always be. If you have the means to purchase your subscription, it’s certainly appreciated; $5 a month or $40 a year.
I am always interested in your insightful comments, stories and perceptions. Please keep doing that; it helps me know that I’m headed in the right direction.
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Summer is winding down here in the Outer Banks, and while we’re all regularly checking the weather forecast to stay ahead of the storms during hurricane season, I think we can all also agree we’re looking forward to cooler temperatures and a slower pace of life.
As you can imagine, this was another busy season for the Outer Banks and in our national parks!
The barrier islands that make up the Outer Banks are dynamic and ever-changing. This is part of what makes them unique, and also contributes to new challenges our National Park Service partners must face each year.
National Public Lands Day is coming up on Saturday, September 28, and we are thrilled to celebrate these protected spaces and the natural beauty and inspiring stories they preserve!
Our Meet Your Ranger series introduces you to the many amazing people who support our Outer Banks national parks every day!
This month, we’re pleased to introduce you to Lilianne Kinne, Interpretive Ranger at Cape Hatteras National Seashore!
Lilianne’s days are full as she gives on-site ranger programs at Bodie Island, assists visitors at the Bodie Island Lighthouse and Visitor Center, walks the Bonner Bridge Pier or Coquina Beach and talks with visitors, and leads kayak and crabbing programs along the Seashore. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, aerial arts, and Acroyoga!
If you’re an educator, we want to help you get your students to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial for field trips! Over the past year, our Outer Banks national parks have served almost 4,000 students!
Thanks to an Open OutDoors For Kids grant from the National Park Foundation, we are able to reimburse transportation costs for field trips for your students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
To learn more about this opportunity, click the button below or email Rachael Graf, Community Engagement Coordinator, at rachaelgraf@obxforever.org. You can also schedule remote learning field trips for your students! To learn more, email our parks at obx_interpretation@nps.gov.
Science in Our Parks: Monitoring Recreational Water Quality
This content is brought to you in partnership with our National Park Service partners.
Did you know that in addition to supporting park projects, we also support science and research initiatives in our parks?
One way we do this is through our Aid to Parks funds! A portion of those funds is currently being used towards sampling supplies and laboratory analyses to better understand outside impacts to soil and groundwater in our parks.
This month, Michael Flynn, Physical Scientist at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, takes us behind the scenes of ongoing recreational water quality monitoring efforts and explains how this helps our National Park Service staff to better address health or environmental concerns for park visitors and to ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy.
We’d like to introduce you to Mike “Moose” Smith, Vice President of our Board of Directors, Outer Banks radio veteran, and real estate expert at Moose OBX!
Mike has been a supporter of our mission from the very beginning and is one of our founding board members. He’s passionate about protecting and enhancing our national parks and preserving the important stories they tell. He also has a special affinity for Wright Brothers National Memorial, since he is a pilot!
National Public Lands Day is coming up on September 28! If you’re in the Outer Banks, here are some ways you can explore and show your appreciation for our national parks!
Wright Brothers National Memorial Ranger Programs:
Wind and Sand (September 28 is a fee-free day at the park!)
North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) Beach Cleanup:
You’re invited to join NCBBA for a beach cleanup on Cape Hatteras National Seashore on September 28. Meet at the Ramp 23 parking lot (Salvo) at 9 a.m. The group will clean up all litter and trash on the beach, the access ramp, and in the parking area.
NCBBA will provide trash bags, grabbers, and vests. Each volunteer will be asked to cover a designated area of beach which will be marked with stakes. The cleanup is expected to last approximately two hours. Refreshments will be provided after the cleanup.
Feel free to invite others to volunteer with you! Please contact NCBBA Director Tom Brueckner at tom.brueckner@ncbba.org or call/text at (973) 714-9940 for more information and to sign up to volunteer.
What’s Happening at Buxton Beach Access?
This content is brought to you by our National Park Service partners.
From 1956 until 2010, Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s Buxton Beach Access, located at the south end of Old Lighthouse Road in Buxton, North Carolina, served our nation as a military base for both the United States Navy and Coast Guard.
Due to decades-long military usage and yet to be performed restoration of the area, samples taken from the beach adjacent to the Buxton Beach Access tested positive in early September 2023, for petroleum-contaminated soils (PCS).
Additionally, due to coastal erosion, abandoned facilities, construction debris, and septic systems associated with historic use of the area have been observed along the beach and pose hazards to visitors.
On September 9, the Army Corps of Engineers announced via news release that they would deploy a team the same week to “take limited response actions if a petroleum release is observed.” Additionally, the September 9 news release said, “the team will also collect additional data, which will support a subsequent contract action. The contracted interim action will involve removing contaminated soil from the beach, and confirmation samples will be taken to verify that clean soil has been reached.”
The National Park Service, which owns the land, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Coast Guard are working to determine an authorized program to remediate PCS and removed exposed infrastructure at Buxton Beach Access.
The National Park Service intends to keep the Buxton Beach Access closed until the contaminated beach in this area is remediated and the remnant infrastructure is removed. There is currently no timeline for reopening any of the three-tenths-of-a-mile long beach and parking area.
To learn more about the history and status of this site from our National Park Service partners, click the button below. You can also learn more from our friend Joy Crist, Editor of the Island Free Press, by visiting her Editor’s Blog.
Did you know you can work with your account manager to send a donation directly to Outer Banks Forever? Your gift will allow us to adapt to and support our parks ever-changing needs! Our EIN is 23-1401703 and our mailing address is P.O. Box 1635, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948.
Contact Nicole Erickson, our Development & Adoption Programs Manager, by email at nicolerickson@obxforever.orgfor more information.
Cruisers Net publishes Loose Cannon articles with Captain Swanson’s permission in hopes mariners with salt water in their veins will subscribe.. $7 a month or $56 for the year and you may cancel at anytime.
Small Craft Advisor is an excellent substack publication serving the most democratic niche in all of boating. It’s mission is to publish stories about sailing, building and cruising small boats. SCA has been a great friend to Loose Cannon, having sent many of its subscribers our way. What follows is a Q&A between SCA Publisher Joshua Colvin and a remarkable young Austrian, reprinted here with permission.
Nicolas Manthos can hardly be called risk averse. He was already a professional paraglider when, after only a couple of years sailing, the 26-year-old set off to cross the Atlantic aboard an 18-foot boat he named 1/4 Life Crisis.
Not only did Manthos cross the Atlantic successfully, he found the lonely lifestyle of the 30-day voyage so agreeable he decided to sail the Hurley 18 trailersailer back across the North Atlantic.
We caught up with the intrepid voyager and asked him about his seamanship tactics, whether he was ever scared, and the difference between saying things and actually doing things.
Small Craft Advisor: What sailing had you done previous to your Atlantic Crossing that gave you confidence you could do it successfully in an 18-foot boat?
Manthos: The Hurley 18 was my first boat and I learned to sail on it. I brought it to Greece on a trailer after doing a refit back home in Austria. Me and a friend spent six weeks cruising around the Ionian Islands and learning how to sail before I left singlehanded to Italy.
After crossing the Mediterranean I decided the boat and I were ready to cross the Atlantic.
Malthos: From reading and watching videos about small-craft voyages I knew the Hurleys were great boats! First I was looking for a 22-footer, but then I found an 18 very close to my home and I just fell in love with it.
SCA: In retrospect, how happy were you with your choice of boat?
Malthos: Very much! I really enjoyed the ease of the tiny boat. Although I think I would suggest something a little bigger, as the price doesn’t go up much until 26 feet and you get much more living space.
SCA: In what ways did your boat’s smaller size work against you? Were there ways in which you think your boat was more vulnerable? Any advantages to the smaller size in terms of seaworthiness?
Malthos: Well, I think the only point which makes a small boat not ideal is the fact that you can’t climb the mast at sea—which can lead to some big problems if you do not prepare very well!
Other than that it’s all about comfort…and of course performance.
SCA: How do you rate the boat’s performance? What was your best day at sea in terms of distance covered?
Malthos: As long as you’re going downwind or reaching it’s not that bad at all. On the tradewinds I was doing consistent 100nm days. My best day was on the last leg from the Azores to France. I knew the boat very well by then and pushed it hard to get 125nm in 24 hours.
In the Med without a real engine I was sometimes doing less than 30nm…My average through the med was about 45nm a day.
SCA: Were there any other boats you originally considered?
Malthos: Not really. I Liked the Vega 26 and Nicholson 26 but they were too big for me to trailer.
SCA: In what ways did you upgrade or outfit the boat the voyage?
Malthos: I didn’t change too much. I think solid sails with big reefs and a reliable windvane are a must. A liferaft and EPIRB should be on every boat doing a crossing, and I had a Garmin Inreach as a backup satellite tracker and for communication.
I also carried a Series Drogue, but I never deployed it.
SCA: How important was your windvane steering system?
Malthos: The most important thing on the boat! I used it 99.99 percent of the time!
SCA: What was your sail inventory and what was your most common sail setup?
Malthos: Main, jib, storm jib, spinnaker, spare jib. On the tradewinds I was wing-on-wing with the jib rolled up more or less and the storm jib.
I didn’t use the spinnaker a lot, but it was very nice to have !
SCA: Did you have to make any significant repairs during the voyage?
Malthos: Not really. My forestay broke—that was my only breakdown. I prepared a Dyneema spare at the mast top ready to go before I left Gibraltar, as I couldn’t climb the mast. This came in very handy as I could hoist my spare jib on it!
SCA: What other gear proved indispensable on the voyage?
Malthos: Good sails with big reefs, reliable windvane, liferaft, EPIRB, backup satellite tracker (Garmin Inreach)
SCA: Tell us about your scariest or most challenging moment or period?
Malthos: There wasn’t really anything super scary—maybe one day on the North Atlantic. We were going upwind in about 30 knots and I was worried about the boat a lot. I think it was mostly my mind—the boat was fine!
SCA: What did you consider the biggest risks or dangers?
Malthos: Containers and a very big storm in the North Atlantic.
SCA: Any seamanship tips or techniques you used, or thing to share with other small-boat sailors who might get caught offshore in rough weather?
Malthos: I think every boat handles a bit differently so it’s hard to say… If you have sea room, I would always run from the storm and at some point deploy the drogue. Make sure your windvane is safe when you deploy the drogue as the bridles can damage it easily.
SCA: Talk to us about the emotional challenges of such a long period at sea alone. Were you ever lonely or depressed? What strategies did you use to counter any feelings of despair?
Malthos: I took on this voyage to find out if I liked to be alone at sea. Turns out I do! So it was kind of easy. For sure sometimes you have a bad day, and you miss your girlfriend and friends, but I have bad days on land as well.
SCA: What were some of the best or most enjoyable moments of the voyage?
Malthos: All of it! All the sunsets, the great sailing, being alone and experiencing yourself in a very raw way. I loved it!
As much as I liked the voyage, the landfall, the people you meet and the parties are just as good.
SCA: Do you think most sailors underestimate the capabilities of smaller boats?
Malthos: Yes! I think if you can cope with the discomfort, you can do almost everything on a well-prepared small boat.
SCA: What would you tell someone considering a similar small-boat voyage?
Malthos: I think what’s most important is to understand that you will be alone out there, so you better be prepared! Think about every scenario.
Small boat voyages are often seen as reckless, but, if you prepare well, we can prove that small boats are safe. In the end, any boat can sink.
SCA: In what ways was your paragliding experience useful and how would you compare the risks to sailing?
Malthos: For sure! I learned a lot about weather, so that was a big benefit. Also, a big point is risk management and coping with difficult situations. This is something you learn over the years of doing “extreme” sports.
Part of Nico’s entertaining exercise routine
SCA: Herman Melville wrote “A man thinks that by mouthing hard words he understands hard things.” It’s obvious we learn the most through action and experience. What do you think people miss out on when they don’t do hard things?
Malthos: I think that’s a big part of why I love sailing so much. Out on the ocean words don’t count for anything—it’s you, the boat, and the ocean. If you prepared well and are up to it you’ll have a great time. If not you will be in trouble…
Nobody has to experience this, but the ones who seek the adventure will be rewarded.
SCA: Tell us about Sailing One World and your current projects?
I took a bit of a turn and after sailing this very slow 18-footer—I needed a change. I set my mind on sailing singlehanded nonstop around the world in the RWYC Worldstar Regatta. For this race I bought an old Class 40.
All of this adventuring started about ten years ago when I had an accident. I survived due to the amazing medical care we have these days, but it left me blind in one eye. Now I want to give something back! While preparing and doing my circumnavigation I want to fundraise for two organizations that bring medical care to people who can’t afford it. You can follow SailingOneWorld on all social media Channels or on my website.
Nico on his new ride.
SCA: Any new projects or adventures planned?
Malthos: I try to take one step at a time, but there will be something coming up for sure!
You can see Malthos’ wonderful video series of his voyage on his YouTube channel.
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Key Lime Sailing Club, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, always has very special offers for their visitors! Key Lime Sailing Club is a unique slice of KEYS ENJOYMENT…give it a try and let us hear about your experience.
Low rates and sunny skies await!
Starting to feel the chill? Now’s the perfect time to book your warm getaway in the Florida Keys! Spend your winter soaking up the sun while enjoying our low-season rates. It’s less crowded and prices are better during these months, so you’ll get more out of your trip for less. Be sure to book early to lock in your preferred dates! And don’t forget to check out our new AI assistant on keylimesailingclub.com – she’s ready to instantly answer any questions you have about Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages. Plus, she’s fun to chat with!
We still have available cottages for our low-rate season. Call or text reservations at 305-451-3438, or send a request from our website, keylimesailingclub.com. Reservations will be happy to let you know which cottages are available for your requested dates.
When you book one of our cottages, you get more than just a great escape. You also get free access to water amenities. If you’re a qualified sailor, you can use a 22′ sailboat. You can also take a relaxing kayak ride, paddleboard on the bay side calm waters, or explore the clear waters with our snorkel gear. This is what the Florida Keys are all about, and it is why guests keep coming back to Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages. It’s a hidden gem that captures the true spirit of the Florida Keys, just like in Jimmy Buffet’s songs and Hemingway’s stories.
Plus, if you’re interested in learning to sail, we have a sailing school right on-site. The American Sailing Academy offers a 2-hour Introduction to Sailing, a 2-hour refresher (for those with experience but needing a little refresher), and ASA beginner and advanced certified classes.
You can learn to sail in just 2 days with our in-house sailing endorsement class (non-certification). When you pass the endorsement class, you would have the use of one of our 22′ Catalina sailboats for FREE during the rest of your stay. (Non-guests can rent a sailboat for $300 a day but it’s free for our qualified sailor guests staying at Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages.)
For more information on the sailing classes, call Capt. g at 305 896 5555, or send an email to captg@keylimesailing.com.
And that’s not all! We’ve got more in store for you such as sailing excursions* which include captivating sunset cruises, immersive kayaking tours, and exhilarating snorkel adventures. Departing from the KLSC docks, these fantastic outings are easily accessible to all our guests. Don’t miss out on these extraordinary sailing excursions; they’re the key to creating unforgettable memories.
*Booked through Morning Star Charters and guests staying at KLSC receive a 10% discount.
New Blog Alert: Surprising Fun Facts About the Florida Keys
Key Lime Sailing Club and Cottages just released a brand-new blog post: “11 Fun Facts About the Florida Keys You Probably Didn’t Know”! Discover quirky history, unique wildlife, and surprising tidbits about this tropical paradise. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just love learning about the Keys, these fun facts will definitely spark your curiosity. Check it out and dive deeper into the wonders of the Florida Keys! Read it here.
Win Stays at Key Lime Sailing Club
To our past and present guests: Here’s a chance to come back and vacation at KLSC for free! Send us pictures of your stay here and win a free 3-night stay by participating in our 14th Annual KLSC Photo Contest. Check here for details.
Got a talent for video making? Enter our 11th Annual KLSC Video Contest and get a chance to win a free 5-night stay! Check here for details.
We at Key Largo Cottages at Key Lime Sailing Club love our guests and we would love to see you back again for another fun-filled and relaxing Florida Keys vacation!
Enjoy a Snorkel or Sunset Cruise both bay side and ocean side as well as sailboat rentals from 22 foot to 40 foot through Morning Star Sailing Charters. Call us at 305-451-7057.
Expressions from centuries past still hold merit, whether first uttered by sailor, farmer, politician or poet. This particular phrase, “The best laid schemes of mice and men oft’ go awry…and leave us nothing but grief and pain. For promised Joy.” (translated from old Scottish). I didn’t know the verbiage or its origins until a bit of laser-fast research with Google (remember Reference Rooms in the Library? Giant, heavy tomes of information which included much less than we now hold in our hand!) taught me the balance and the longevity. Deeper delving uncovered a bit more.
Poet Robert Burns penned “To A Mouse” in November 1785 after destroying its home while tilling his field. Knowing the mouse had much work to do (re-do) before winter, he was inspired to write the tribute, seen it in its entirety here compliments of The Poetry Foundation.
It would be difficult to track or even estimate how many times I uttered “…THE BEST LAID PLANS…” without finishing (or starting, really) the sentence because I didn’t need to. Through time, society has shortened and slightly revised the original work. Now, somewhat perplexedly, most of the English-speaking world knows what those four words mean. I daresay many folks wouldn’t have cared as much as Burns when destroying the dwelling of a tiny, wild rodent. Perhaps I’m wrong (?); many of my readers chimed in last week (thank you!) to say that while some folks are malicious, the majority are still making a positive difference rather than creating chaos in this big ol’ world.
That little plant caused some chaos in this farm field, but it was saved!
The entire point is that, more often than not, our plans and schemes do not turn out as anticipated. We even anticipate that they won’t turn out as anticipated! That’s how often things go awry. Sometimes it’s difficult to remember that it’s not always a bad thing. I truly believe that. Most plans not going forward certainly don’t cause such dire circumstances as pain and grief. That was the plan, we say, tossing it aside and moving on.
Many plans on this vessel begin like this:
And then these turn into something, or not.
Plans (long term or short term), are created, communicated and initiated only to hear, oft’ as not, “Good Lord willing and the Creek don’t rise.” While many have interpreted the SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE meaning of this phrase, as in, “if nothing goes wrong, I’ll be there,” there is an historic secondary origin that begs discussion. According to Wiktionary, the phrase is actually credited to Benjamin Hawkins, Continental Congress from North Carolina and Indian Affairs Superintendent in the early 1800s. The story goes that he was requested to travel to Washington and his response was “If God is willing and the Creek don’t rise.” At that time, there was tremendous controversy with the Creek Native American People as they were being forcibly detained onto smaller and smaller reservations.
Google AI tells us that phrase is simply an American slang expression((!) I like the historical version myself) that implies or indicates ‘strong intentions that could be frustrated by uncommon but forseeable events.’
Please, tell me what you think. Weigh in. Do you use these phrases? And if so, in what form? Is there a favorite? How many generations do they go back? Do you think the expression created by a Creek rising or a creek rising? We may never know.
For months, as an additional source of income, I submitted stories to magazines, trying to get my first byline. I’ve been published in two. Two. That’s it. That’s all. My little italicized bio at the end of a SAIL Magazine article (June/July 2024) says “Janice Anne Wheeler and Steve Uhthoff depart this fall on a five-year voyage to the Caribbean and South America aboard STEADFAST, a 56-foot 1934 William Hand Jr. ketch. You can explore her work at JaniceAnneWheeler.com.” The second part of the bio is still true, the other part was just a plan. When that story was published, STEADFAST looked like this:
Now, STEADFAST looks like this:
Stem, knee and planking are being replaced, a months-long process.
The bow from below. This writer will learn the ancient art of Shipbuilding. So will you, if you subscribe and follow along!
Quite an adjustment, for all three of us, to say the least. And, of course, such a plan is not a plan like going to the grocery store this afternoon, it’s a dream, too. It’s big.
When STEADFAST was first contrived in the early 1930’s by designer William Hand, Jr, she looked like this: What a plan. And it, of course, came completely to fruition in 1934. 90 years later, we need a wee bit of repair…
Ah, THE BEST LAID PLANS. They change. We adjust. We smile. We cry. We laugh. Sometimes we forget what the plan even was! We delve into whatever life tosses our way, if it needs to be tackled, we tackle. If it needs to be embraced, we open our hearts and arms. I believe that somewhere, there’s a little bit of God’s will (however I perceive that entity) involved as well as lots of learning, empathy, flexibility and grit.
Man plans. God laughs. I credit this quote to the boatbuilder that saved this vessel once before, in the 1980’s, contributing years of work and resources. I imagine the origins of that expression, too, go back farther than any of us realize. It always makes me smile so I include it, hoping the same for you. Thanks for being here!
SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE, begun just six months ago, was originally envisioned to be stories of travel, sailing and the unending miracles and challenges that Mother Nature presents. Since she presented us with some rather insidious damage in the bow of our big piece of nautical history, we have hauled STEADFAST out in Cambridge, Maryland for the repairs necessary to keep her whole and us safe. It’s both involved and interesting; I’ll definitely be writing about the processes.
The best of human nature has been encountered here; we found a place to live, work & play that, while close to the water, is still a tremendous adjustment. (We do get long, hot showers, something that never happens living aboard). I chose to write on SUBSTACK for the very reason that I could choose all of my own topics and take my writing in any direction that I wished…although I did not foresee this particular creek rise.
*** I will always keep the articles I have written available for free to my readers. If you see value and possess the means, it’s great encouragement to have paid subscribers. If not, simply ‘liking,’ commenting, restacking and sharing these tales helps spread the word about me and what I have chosen to do. There should be someone on your email list that would be intrigued!
Most importantly, YOU ARE TREMENDOUSLY APPRECIATED!
And lastly: our weekly sunrise. These can be seen on Facebook YACHTING STEADFAST each and every morning until 2025. This one’s from the scaffold, where I spend an inordinate amount of time writing stories in my brain and pulling really old cotton out from between these long, lovely planks. Later, we’ll show you how to put all those components back!
Get more from Janice Anne Wheeler in the Substack app
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SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE discusses many worldly elements in one form or another. To receive your weekly Sunday Morning Read simply become a subscriber! Thank you.
Gulfport Municipal Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, and the City of Gulfport always have a full calendar of events for all ages. The marina and harbor, found on the northern shores of Boca Ciega Bay, are easily accessible from the Western Florida ICW, just north of Tampa Bay.
We are thrilled to announce that We the Water will launch the third year of their paddling voyage this week! This Friday, paddlers from the Wrightsville Beach Outrigger Canoe Club, as part of the We the Water Initiative, will embark on their final push up the North Carolina Coast.
Over the course of two days starting on Sept. 13, they will paddle the last 110 miles to cross over the Virginia Border. By reaching this finish line, they will have successfully paddled the entire length of the North Carolina coast, all in an effort to raise awareness and support for the Coastal Federation’s work to improve coastal water quality.
As they make their way toward the finish line, you can show your support by donating online or bidding on one of many silent auction items. This incredible team is just $5,000 away from their goal to raise $50,000 for clean water over three years. Give or visit the auction by Monday, September 23 to help them across the finish line!
You can see them off from Buxton on Sept. 12, or welcome them at the finish line in Corolla on Sept. 14. You can also stay updated on their progress through their online Live Tracker, and even make plans to witness the crew out on the water from your kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or boat!
Let’s rally behind this incredible initiative and make a difference for our coastal waters.
Don’t forget to check out the Silent Auction to see the fantastic items available, such as a 2-night stay at a stunning Wrightsville Beach Home. The auction proceeds will support the paddlers in reaching their $50,000 goal for clean coastal waters. Make sure to place your bids by Sept. 23!
Thank you to all of our members for their continued support. If you are interested in being part of a bigger mission that includes education, advocacy, and restoration you can protect and restore the coast with us by volunteering, making a donation, or becoming a member. Head to nccoast.org/give to learn more.
How these changes will affect the posting of LNM on Cruisers Net is not clear, but we will attempt to continue the daily posting of LNMs as they are received.
Notice: Changes to the USCG Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) and Light Lists
The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center announces upcoming changes to the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) and the Light List, as part of our efforts to modernize and improve the accessibility, accuracy, and overall user experience for mariners and other stakeholders.
What Is Changing?
Transition From Paper Charts: In January 2025, NOAA will discontinue the production of all paper charts. In alignment with this change, the Coast Guard will transition from using NOAA Paper Chart Numbers and Editions/Dates for disseminating Marine Safety Information (MSI) to using Official Waterway Names.
How You Will Access LNMs and Light Lists: The LNM and Light List data will now be available in a geospatial format, which will allow you to visualize information interactively on a map/chart. You can use your mouse wheel or the +/- buttons in the upper left portion of the screen to zoom in or out and navigate to your desired area on the map/chart. Once the area is displayed, you can generate a PDF of the LNM or Light List for that specific area, which you can then save and/or print. Alternatively, you can use a fillable form on our website to select your waterway by name from the Light List and generate the LNM or Light List.
LNM and Light List Data Refresh Rate: LNM data will be refreshed every fifteen minutes. Light List data will be refreshed every 24 hours. This will give you a much more up-to-date operating picture, designed to enhance your efficiency and improve safety in your area of transit or planned routes.
Elimination of Weekly Files: Weekly LNMs, Weekly Light List Correction Files, Daily Discrepancy Files, and the Summary of Light List Changes will no longer be published to focus on providing the most up-to-date and accessible format. In the near future, we will also publish an Application Programming Interface (API) for interested parties to access the data externally.
Why Are These Changes Being Made?
The modernization of MSI delivery is designed to improve the U.S. Coast Guard’s aid-to-navigation data management and dissemination capabilities. By providing frequent updates, geospatial visualization, and digital access, we hope to achieve our goals of:
Enhancing Maritime Safety: By delivering the most current and precise information, mariners can make better-informed decisions, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring safer navigation.
Improving Accessibility: The shift to geospatial visualization makes it easier for all users, from commercial mariners to recreational boaters, to stay informed.
Increasing Efficiency: The integration of LNM and Light List data into a geospatial format to simplify the gathering of safety information and facilitate easy route planning.
When Will These Changes Take Effect?
The transition to the modernized LNM and Light List platform (the Navigation Center website) will be completed by Monday, September 30th.
How to Access the New Features?
Starting on September 30th, 2024, you will be able to access the updated LNM and Light List through the NAVCEN website. A User Guide will be available on the NAVCEN website. Customers will still have the ability to download legacy versions of these products until October 21st.
For any questions or assistance, please visit our Contact Us Page, select ‘LNMs or Light Lists’ from the Subject dropdown, and submit your inquiry.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to improve the safety and efficiency of maritime navigation.
Low rates and sunny skies await!
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