Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Aug 6, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 32.1381,-80.81199999
High Praise for Harbour Town Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 565

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Harbor Town Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, lies just off the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway on Calibogue Sound, below Statute Mile 565 at Marker 32, right in the heart of The Sea Pines Resort.
8/5/16- Marina has been dredged. Nothing less than 8 feet throughout. This is by far one of the premier resort marinas on the East coast. Very professionally run and staffed. That free bottle of wine is a classy touch. Outstanding restaurants and shopping all over HH Island. Miles of bike trails and great beaches and swimming pool.
Rick Sorrenti
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Harbor Town Yacht Basin
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Harbor Town Yacht Basin
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Aug 5, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Coastal and Marine Geology Program (CMGP) Interactive Maps
If you are fascinated by satellite photos of the earth and especially the US coastlines, you will enjoy this website, Coastal and Marine Geology Program (CMGP) Interactive Maps, showing the ocean’s impact on more than a dozen regions of the continental USA.
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Aug 5, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Boats Are Killing Florida Manatees in Record Numbers
This report from Care2.com focuses on the large number of manatees killed in Florida by boats this year leading to what could be the worst year on record. Slow down in Manatee Zones and keep a sharp watch ahead.
Boats Are Killing Manatees in Record Numbers

Manatee advocates are raising concerns about the number of these gentle giants who have been killed in Florida this year. They hope that increased vigilance and other measures will help keep this from being the worst year on record.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has already counted 71 manatees killed by boats as of July 22. The numbers are already higher than they were for the same period in 2009, which was the deadliest year on record with a total of 97 deaths.
The growing death toll has caused manatee advocates to worry that the unfortunate record will be broken this year, but there are differing opinions as to why.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT
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Aug 2, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Boo Boo Hill – Exumas

I was only able to stay for an hour or so but I couldn’t get over the spectacular view from Boo Boo Hill. Looking forward to getting back and spending a few days exploring. Airie Bown
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Aug 2, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Bahamas Chatter: Petition to BTC
Explorer Chartbooks, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: Petition to BTC
Petition to BTC
Posted: 01 Aug 2016 10:41 AM PDT
The Communication Breakdown team is hoping you will be able to support our cause in petitioning BTC to do better in the Out Islands.
The introduction and petition identify the cause. Please join us in making the Central Exumas a safer place to live, visit and cruise. If you would kindly distribute and or post this movement to your readers and site, we would be grateful, as will they! Thanks in advance for your consideration.
Dear Residents, Visitors, Cruisers, Business Owners and all those connected to the Central Exumas,
BTC is failing the people of the Central Exumas and it is time to speak out!
Data and cellular based services are failing all of us yet we continue to be billed for services that are not rendered. We can no longer accept these failures as “a way of life” in the Family Islands.
PLEASE SIGN OUR ONLINE PETITION!
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/communication-breakdown-btc-customers-of-the
You should not hesitate to SIGN THIS PETITION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE and FORWARD this message and / or the PETITION LINK on through your social media outlets and to every one of your contacts who have been or may soon be effected by these Communication Breakdowns. Your family and friends both here and afar, past and future guests, networks such as cruising and pilot forums, island owners and operators, property owners, businesses and their suppliers, employees, travel agents, etc. DO NOT ASSUME we have reached your contacts through ours, PASS IT ON.
THE KEY TECHNICALITIES:
Data via WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is not new technology. It is proven throughout the Caribbean and the world and serves to effectively connect citizens in remote areas where there is limited infrastructure. You are not receiving the bandwidth that you purchase as part of your communications package! You have been lead to believe or you accept that this technology functions here as best it can.
Voice via CELLULAR or GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and “landlines” are not new technology and fail equally. Connectivity fails throughout the system. From the extreme, no signal to dropped calls. A multitude of message notifications are applied that inaccurately inform you why you cannot reach the party you are calling. How many times have you heard the message “we are sorry, the person you are calling has not set up their mailbox or the mailbox is full”? It has been proven that this message is BTC’s way of telling you we couldn’t connect you and it is not our fault. Your landlines likely don’t function at all. In most instances, mobile phones cannot be connected to land lines!
Outdated equipment and increased growth are the assumed primary reasons for these technicalities. These failures effect all of us on a personal level and those who provide goods and services in the area, it effects your business!
Hard copy signatures will be collected in the area throughout the week of 1-AUG and, along with your electronic signatures will be forwarded via direct courier and electronically to BTC. Our goal to petition is the second week of August. PLEASE SIGN now! PLEASE spread the word.
Staniel Cay, Great Guana Cay, Farmers Cay and the surrounding cays make up a community of citizens, visitors and business owners that live and love a life of extraordinary measure. Each of us here deserve and should settle for no less than functional and effective communications systems, “EVERYDAY”.
Sincerely and with hope for a better connection.
The COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN Petition Team.
Gage Parrot
Little Majors
+1 242 357 0012
+1 954 914 9879
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Aug 1, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 35.1021,-77.03989999
Nautical Wheelers of Oriental, NC Opens 2nd Store in New Bern, Trent River, off Neuse River

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This unique establishment, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, contains everything “coastal” from clothing, to shoes, to home furnishings and accessories, to Adirondack chairs, to say nothing of the wine section and the voluminous selection of all types of gifts and personal items.
Bill Wheeler and wife Camilla now have a second store located right across the street from our new sponsor, New Bern Grand Marina and Yacht Club in historic New Bern, North Carolina. Store Owner/Manager Debbie Richart can assist you with your selection of nautical items for you or as a gift. In our book, visiting New Bern is now a double treat.

Nautical Wheelers, 202A Craven Street, New Bern, NC 28560
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For New Bern Grand Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of New Bern Grand Marina
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Jul 31, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 36.5054,-76.35519999
Reports from Dismal Swamp Canal, AICW Alternate Route

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These thoughtful and informative reports on the Dismal Swamp Canal, home of Dismal Swamp State Park – A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR – come from our good friends at AGLCA. The Camden TDA/Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center is located on the east shore of the Canal at Statute Mile 28 and is adjacent to the Dismal Swamp State Park where there are so many fun summer programs!
We just did the DS northbound on July 27-28. It was hot, but it’s hot everywhere. The tall trees offer some shade. We passed only one boat. No competition for dock space at the visitor center. They have free ice and air conditioning. Free docks at Elizabeth City. Brown water. Some bumps.
Keith and D’Anne Weitzman
“Our Backyard”
Carver 3607 MY

We passed through the Dismal Swamp in the other direction in early July this year. I suggest a cooler day if possible. Be ready with bug spray or a screened in helm. Take it slow. There are small logs and branches that you can sometimes see and sometimes not see that you will bump. The ones you don’t see I think are neutrally buoyant and just below the surface. Going slow will allow them to be pushed to the side without damage. They suggest 5 mph but were were a little faster especially on the north end.
We did not stop in the swamp because of the flies but we stopped in Elizabeth City at the free slips to see the town and then at Lambs overnight to make the 11:00 lock time. After the swamp, we stayed in Norfolk at Waterside and then Portsmouth. See July 2016 entry in cmosboating.blogspot.com. There are pictures of the scenery which we found very pretty particularly in the morning at the south end before the first lock (and flies).
Clark on Sea Moss
We went through the Dismal Swamp in late June and were mostly alone until the north lock when two other boats caught up with us. Water levels were high and the scenery was lovely. There was some construction going on at the visitor center but the facilities were open and uncrowded.
Ben and Nancy Duggar
September, Camano 31
I just went through the Dismal Swamp about six weeks ago and it was fine. If you leave Elizabeth City in time to catch the 0830 or 1100 openings at South Mills and run 5 to 6 knots, you will be at Deep Creek bridge in plenty of time for the 1330 or 1530 openings and then you can make Norfolk, Portsmouth or Hampton before dark. If you are wanting to go latter, you can stay at the lock wall at South Mills, the NC Welcome station, or the wall right before the bridge at Deep Creek bridge. Deep Creek is not a great stop, lots of traffic noise, but a very short walk to Food Lion for provisions and a Burger King(I think). There is also a good anchorage after the Deep Creek lock on the right just before you reach the Elizabeth River.
Ken Horton
North Carolina offers several alternative routes if you have time. The “main highway” is the ICW Route, but the barrier islands and the Albemarle offer delightful alternatives.
I have an article on North Carolina on my website, here: https://gilwellbear.wordpress.com/2013/06/16/north-carolina/.
Under the North Carolina tab, there are several related articles on the various alternatives. Here is a link to one that discusses the Virginia Cut and the Dismal Swamp alternative: https://gilwellbear.wordpress.com/category/cruising-practica/us-east-coast/north-carolina/albemarle-to-norfolk/.
Hope they are useful.
Jim
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
We went thru the Dismal Swamp Thursday and Friday July 28th and 29th in a 39 krogen with a 4’6″ draft. The depth was a constant 7 ft. We bumped a few logs in the water. You need to keep a constant lookout. We stayed one night at the Dismal Swamp Welcome Center. Great trip.
Mack McGahee
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Camden TDA/Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
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Jul 30, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.0928,-80.44889999
Comments on Sunset Cove Anchorage, Buttonwood Sound, near Inside Route Statue Mile 1143

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Andree is correct about the history of this once popular anchorage, see /99799. And see /158819 for details on a new Florida law dealing with at-risk and derelict vessels. Thank you Andree for your perspective.
I was anchored out in Sunset Cove from 2001 to 2007 we tied our dinghies off the Bayside Resort pier. A chain link fence was put up and no trespassing sign a few years later. Thanks to some people who slept under the tree, drank , litter and trash the shore. It was a disgrace and bad image for the resort and tourists so they [authorities] did what they could to prevent it. That is why there are barely any boats there anymore. The anchorage has moved to Government center a few miles up the road.
Andree J Hardy
Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Sunset Cove
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Sunset Cove Anchorage
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Jul 29, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Blue Ocean Sails Newsletter
Blue Ocean Sails (BOS) is a developing non-profit, educational organization, based in NE Florida, whose mission is to support, facilitate and assist students, educators, citizen and research scientists in all endeavors associated with marine science education and research. BOS is worthy of our interest and support.
Friends of Blue Ocean Sails – this is the first quarterly newsletter summarizing the ongoing development and activities of Blue Ocean Sails (BOS).

QUICK LOOK ASTERN – Blue Ocean Sails enjoyed a very successful Ocean Sampling Day 2016 in June coordinating with NOAA/AOML and the European OSD Consortium to bring OSD/MyOSD to NE Florida. The local area response was beyond enthusiastic at all levels and volunteer sampling groups from Flagler College, St Johns River State College, Sea Grant 4-H Marine Ecology Club and University of Florida, Whitney/Osborne Laboratory conducted ocean water sampling from both coastal and offshore sample sites, processed samples and shipped them to Europe for microbe DNA analysis.
OSD 2016 was a great kickoff to the Blue Ocean Sails primary mission – support, assist and facilitate marine science research and education for students, educators, citizen and research scientists. Throw in a 6 hour offshore sail on Sea Breeze, our Irwin 43, and you see in OSD 2016 a perfect example of what Blue Ocean Sails strives to be.
PRESENT POSITION – Blue Ocean Sails is currently in discussion with the St Johns County school district exploring options to bring the NOAA Global Drifter Buoy Program into the classroom for both elementary and secondary students. Blue Ocean Sails will set sail from St Augustine, FL this October and deploy a NOAA drifter buoy 75 to 100 miles offshore in the core of the Gulf Stream incorporating classroom lesson plans and STEM activities for students and teachers.
Work continues to upgrade Sea Breeze’s systems to improve her offshore capability for hosting students, educators, citizen and research scientists onboard in local waters and for a 3 to 4 week cruise to the Abacos, Bahamas next year – hopefully supporting a yet to be developed survey/research project in support of deserving students, educators and/or scientists.
ON THE HORIZON – Blue Ocean Sails seeks to develop an active Apex Predator Tagging program in association with the National Marine Fisheries Services ongoing program. Growing out of relationships formulated during OSD 2016, Blue Ocean Sails also seeks to begin discussions soon with Flagler College, Whitney Marine Science Laboratory and the Florida Microplastic Awareness Project exploring opportunities to support, assist and facilitate ongoing programs, projects and studies.
As Blue Ocean Sails continues to gain significant operational traction, enthusiastic support is coming from all levels of the marine science community. I haven’t yet begun to outline the unending variety of programs on the drawing board designed to champion marine science at all levels; programs such as ScholarShips for Students, Dolphin Sails, Ocean Awareness Sails, Students – STEM – and the Ocean, Marine Baseline Studies, Extended Offshore/Inshore Research Sails, Ocean Literacy Sails, Skippers for Science and much more.
CHARTING THE COURSE – Blue Ocean Sails is growing – and we need you! Please see the letter below requesting anyone interested in becoming actively involved with organizational and program development to please contact me ASAP. Options for active involvement include becoming an advisor to Blue Ocean Sails and even sitting as a member of the inaugural Board of Directors as we move towards formal incorporation and apply for 501(c)3 non profit status.
Blue Ocean Sails is excited to get even more involved – supporting, assisting and facilitating marine science education and research! We offer free use of a 43′ offshore capable sailboat that can be your “research vessel”! Tell us how we can be of best use supporting your projects and programs and consider volunteering to help formalize the organization and its programs.
BLUE OCEAN SAILS IS GROWING – and needs you!
Are you interested in marine science, marine science education, sailing or the ocean? If you are that person, please contact me. I’m seeking discussion with individuals interested in contributing ideas, discussion points, thoughts and relevant input in order to help shape the continued development, direction and growth of Blue Ocean Sails.
We now need the ideas and involvement of others who are passionate about marine science, education and research in order to continue the growth and development of Blue Ocean Sails as a viable, contributing educational organization.
You don’t need to be a research scientist or tenured professor to provided valuable ideas, input and suggestions. You only need to have a passion for the ocean and a desire to volunteer to help steer the development of a non-profit, educational organization focusing on marine science education and research along with sailing and boating activities.
Near term, I envision talking with interested individuals over the next couple months, discussing ideas and gauging interest levels. Then the next step will likely be a group meeting of interested individuals as we begin to discuss options for forming a board of directors and advisory committees. Formal incorporation of the organization will follow as appropriate.
While BOS is initially St Augustine based, the vision is to develop an organization that serves the marine science community both far and wide. As such, Im casting this net far and wide. Please don’t think you can’t participate if you live outside NE Florida – it’s a big ocean; it touches us all.
This is an opportunity with a wide range of involvement – from as little as tossing in a few ideas, all the way to sitting on the inaugural Blue Ocean Sails Board of Directors. You decide how interested you are, how you’d like to participate – there will certainly be something for every level of interest and involvement.
Contact me if you’re interested in helping with the development of Blue Ocean Sails. I’ll answer your questions and provide an executive summary of our progress and plans thus far.
Please get involved – I need your ideas – I need to talk with you!
Best regards,
Mike Alyea
Blue Ocean Sails
St Augustine, FL
www.facebook.com/BlueOceanSails
FMSEA/NMEA member since 2016
770.871.1770
St Augustine Record OSD/BOS news article –
http://staugustine.com/news/local-news/2016-06-22/northeast-florida-joins-international-research-microbes#
Ponte Vedra Recorder OSD/BOS news article –
http://pontevedrarecorder.com/stories/blue-ocean-sales-to-host-ocean-sampling-day-june-21,1421?
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Jul 29, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Florida’s New “At-Risk Vessel” Law
SSECN hopes this law will never apply to you, but if your boat is frequently left unattended for any length of time, you should be aware of the new authority granted to FWC law enforcement.

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission sent this bulletin at 07/29/2016 11:00 AM EDT
For immediate release: July 29, 2016
Photos available on the FWC’s Flickr site: https://flic.kr/s/aHsjEz2hj2
New at-risk vessel law helps FWC officials manage Florida waterways

A new Florida law, approved by the Legislature and Governor during the 2016 Session, will enable county and local authorities along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to more effectively manage the state’s waterways. The new law (F.S. 327.4107) allows law enforcement officers to issue non-criminal citations to owners who allow their boats to become “at risk” of becoming derelict.

“This law allows officers to take action before a vessel crosses that line between at-risk and derelict, and hopefully prompts the owner to rectify any issues with the vessel before it reaches a state of disrepair,” said Phil Horning, FWC’s derelict vessel program administrator. “Prior to this law being enacted, officers had to wait until a vessel met the legal criteria for a derelict vessel before beginning any sort of official interaction with the owner.”
Under the new law, a vessel is deemed to be “at-risk” if any of the following conditions is observed:
The vessel is taking on or has taken on water without an effective means to dewater.
Spaces on the vessel that are designed to be enclosed are incapable of being sealed off or remain open to the elements for extended periods of time.
The vessel has broken loose or is in danger of breaking loose from its anchor.
The vessel is left or stored aground unattended in such a state that would prevent the vessel from getting underway, is listing due to water intrusion, or is sunk or partially sunk.
If an officer observes a vessel with one or more of these criteria, a non-criminal citation may be issued that requires the owner to correct the problem or face stronger penalties after 30 days have passed. If problems are not fixed, non-compliant vessel owners can face additional fines issued every 30 days until they are.
Officials expect that this new law will decrease the number of vessels becoming derelict, a problem which continues to burden the state’s public waterways.
“Our goal is to keep Florida’s waterways safe and protect their environmental stability,” said Horning. “We are committed to protecting this valuable resource for the people of Florida and its visitors.”
Vessel owners are also reminded to sell their vessels properly.
“Many owners don’t realize that not only is the buyer required to get the vessel retitled in their name, but the seller is also required to notify the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 30 days that they have sold their vessel,” said Horning.
Failure to do so is a violation and may cause the prior owner of record legal troubles should the vessel become derelict at a later date. The FWC will be assisting state and local governments with derelict vessel removal grants that will be available soon. The grant funding was also approved by the Legislature and Governor during the 2016 Session. Interested applicants may contact the FWC Derelict Vessel Program office at 850-617-9540 or email DVGrant@MyFWC.com for more information.
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Jul 29, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 34.6063,-77.23579999
Good Report from Problem Spot: AICW/Browns Inlet Intersection, Statute Mile 237

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Assuming David is talking about the AICW intersection, this is good news for this Problem Spot. However, it is definitely wise to follow the advice David gives below and SSECN has been giving for some time: follow the markers and do NOT follow the Magenta Line in this stretch of the ICW!
Sail catamaran JilliQ Lagoon 37. Went through Browns inlet on 7/28/16 at 12:00 noon. This was a half rising tide. Followed the buoys and saw a minimum of 8.5 feet.
David Hough
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Browns Inlet Intersection
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Raymond W. Smith - April 3, 2017 - 4:42 pm

Browns Inlet….Passed through Sunday 4-2-17 3/4 tide. Straight through and no problem.
Raymond W. Smith
Reply to Raymond
Jul 28, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 35.4886,-76.95829999
Good Words for McCotters Marina and Boat Yard, Pamlico River, Washington, NC

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McCotters Marina and Repair Yard, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is located on Broad Creek, off the Pamlico River, a few miles downstream of the Washington, NC waterfront. McCotters is one of the largest marinas in North Carolina and its repair capabilities are impressive.
McCotter’s seems to be a laid-back, easy to just relax environment. Good price, reasonable cleanliness, reasonable repair on the docks. Only problem, which is a significant concern for the younger boaters, is the Wi-Fi notoriously goes down on the weekend just when we need it most.
Scott
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For McCotters Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of McCotters Marina
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Jul 27, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
BoatUS News: Tips for Navigating Summer Thunderstorms
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and boating safety on all waters and SSECN is proud to present BoatUS News.
NEWS From BoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com

Boaters need to be prepared for summer thunderstorms.
Three Tips for Any Boater Facing A Powerful Summer Thunderstorm
Lessons Learned from Rescue of Four Kayak Anglers
HILLSBORO INLET, Fla., July 27, 2016 – Recreational boaters and paddlers understand that late afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer boating season. A recent incident involving two TowBoatUS Fort Lauderdale captains and their rescue of four kayakers pre-fishing a local tournament offers some lessons learned on how to survive an afternoon storm.
Just before 2 p.m. on Friday, June 24, under severe thunderstorm watch, Captains Eric Laury and Steve Reuss ran for cover as a large, fast-moving storm approached. Safe in a marina close to Hillsboro Inlet, they began to “wait out Armageddon,” as Reuss described the strong storm. Minutes later the US Coast Guard reported three overturned kayakers in the water about two miles south of the inlet.
With 3-foot chop, 40-knot winds and near constant lightning, both captains immediately headed out to provide Good Samaritan aid. Normally the response boats, which have red hulls and white “TowBoatUS” letters on the side, are used for towing disabled recreational boats. After a short search Captain Reuss quickly located and safely took aboard two kayakers in the near zero-visibility conditions.
Captain Laury, reporting severe wind gusts “trying to lift” the boat beneath his feet, soon found and retrieved two other paddlers with overturned kayaks. It was later learned that these two paddlers had hailed the original mayday with no knowledge of the other two distressed kayakers, and the slightly erroneous report of three distressed kayakers yielded the safe return of all four.
To share some lessons learned, BoatUS has three safety tips for any mariner or angler facing a powerful, summer thunderstorm:
1. Don’t let your guard down: “Sometimes during the summer we see boaters lulled into a sense that calm seas always prevail, but these kayakers were prepared,” says TowBoatUS Ft. Lauderdale spokesman Barney Hauf. “They had life jackets on, carried a handheld VHF radio and a Personal Locator Beacon.”
2. Don’t leave the boat: While caught out on the open water and unable to seek cover, the paddlers stayed with their overturned vessels. “They fastened themselves to each other and to their equipment to stay together,” said Captain Reuss. Staying with an overturned boat gives rescuers a larger target to find.
3. Watch your weight: Small craft are most prone to overloading. Says BoatUS Foundation Assistant Director of Boating Safety Ted Sensenbrenner, “Kayaks weighted with a lot of gear can loose buoyancy. No matter what kind of boat, know your vessel’s capacity rating.”
For more information on boating safety, go to BoatUS.org.
About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS):
Celebrating 50 years in 2016, BoatUS is the nation’s largest organization of recreational boaters with over a half million members. We are the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill and fight for their rights. We help ensure a roadside breakdown doesn’t end a boating or fishing trip before it begins, and on the water, we bring boaters safely back to the launch ramp or dock when their boat won’t, day or night. The BoatUS Marine Insurance Program gives boat owners the specialized coverage and superior service they need, and we help keep boaters safe and our waters clean with assistance from the non-profit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. Visit BoatUS.com.
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Jul 25, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
BoatUS News: Avoiding Repair Shop Problems
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and boating safety on all waters and SSECN is proud to present BoatUS News.
NEWS From BoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
8 Ways To Avoid Problems at the Boat Repair Shop
ALEXANDRIA, Va. July 25, 2016 – For over 25 years the BoatUS Consumer Protection department has helped Boat Owners Association of The United States members resolve disputes with repair facilities. The vast majority of shops do the job right, but sometimes they – or boat owners – make mistakes. To see what went wrong and to possibly learn from others, BoatUS has surveyed its BoatUS Dispute Resolution files to identify eight trouble spots that boaters needing work done should know:
1. Finding a shop: Word of mouth is still king. Having American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and Better Business Bureau (BBB) certifications are also two good signs. Boaters can also check out the BoatUS Consumer Protection Database for complaints filed by BoatUS members.
2. Get it in writing: Get a written estimate before work begins, and remember that it is based on an approximation of how much the job will cost. If work may go beyond the estimated price, you can always direct the shop to obtain your authorization before proceeding with unforeseen repairs. Remember, if it’s not in writing, there’s no way to confirm the work was requested.
3. Is there a guarantee for the work? 30-, 60-, or 90-days are all typical. Ask if parts and labor are included. Don’t wait until after the warranty expires to check the repairs.
4. Remove valuables: Bring small electronics, personal items and fishing gear home.
5. Take photos: It’s always good to take a few “before” time-stamped photos of your boat in the shop (your smart phone may have this feature built-in or there are Apps available). Accidents do sometimes happen, and you may need before and after damage photos to show the shop damage took place and possibly file an insurance claim.
6. Languish at your peril: Avoid having your job pushed to the back burner by staying frequently informed about ongoing repairs. While there are often legitimate delays due to seasonality, parts sourcing, weather, and personnel, if you think you are getting put off, you probably are. Cut losses and find another shop. (Tip: For larger jobs, ask the shop to periodically email you pictures of work in progress. It may help keep the job on schedule.)
7. Inspect, inspect, and inspect: When picking up the boat after completion of repairs, ensure each bit of repair work matches the actual invoice. If you do have a dispute with the final bill, you’re in better legal shape if you pay it in full, preferably on a credit card, and then file a complaint with the shop and/or your credit card company.
8. A note about end of season repairs: Sea trials must take place during the warranty period, which has sometimes caused problems for BoatUS members who put their boats away for the winter before ensuring the repairs are satisfactory. Any open issues found in the springtime will likely come out of the boat owner’s wallet.
About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS):
Celebrating 50 years in 2016, BoatUS is the nation’s largest organization of recreational boaters with over a half million members. We are the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill and fight for their rights. We help ensure a roadside breakdown doesn’t end a boating or fishing trip before it begins, and on the water, we bring boaters safely back to the launch ramp or dock when their boat won’t, day or night. The BoatUS Marine Insurance Program gives boat owners the specialized coverage and superior service they need, and we help keep boaters safe and our waters clean with assistance from the non-profit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. Visit BoatUS.com.
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Jul 25, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Bahamas Chatter: Winding Bay, Abaco, Update
Explorer Chartbooks, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: Winding Bay, Abaco, Update
Winding Bay, Abaco, Update
Posted: 24 Jul 2016 12:08 PM PDT
Just wanted to give you an update on Winding Bay’s latest shenanigans.
RDA (Responsible Development for Abaco), with a lot of help from Fred Smith, filed for a Judicial Review against 9 government departments for “lack of consultation”. As a result, BEST posted the EIA, EMP, latest site plan, and a couple of cover-your-ass letters on their website (www.best.gov.bs). They also called a town meeting in Cherokee Sound on June 27th. At the meeting, the developers announced that the marina was critical to the survival of the Abaco Club, and would generate 1000 construction jobs. A ludicrous number, any way you look at it. They said that 6 moorings would have to be moved, but couldn’t say where to, or whose moorings they are.
They also said that WSC (Water and Sewerage Corp.) had tested the water in LH and found it “unswimmable”, full of E. coli and fecal matter, and that their marina would actually clean up the harbour by installing a pump out station. Please see below a couple of quotes along these lines, and also WSC’s response to our queries about the tests. There’s a big difference between “unswimmable” and “undrinkable”.
CLICK HERE for the full Bahamas Chatter
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Jul 24, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Bahamas Chatter: Disney looking at developing Egg Island

Explorer Chartbooks, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: Disney looking at developing Egg Island
Disney looking at developing Egg Island
Posted: 22 Jul 2016 04:19 AM PDT
Disney is moving ahead with plans to build a cruise ship pier on Egg Island, North Eleuthera. Among many concerns is that Egg Island’s natural beauty and ecology will be destroyed if Disney proceeds with its plans to develop the island.
Click here for full article on Disney possibly developing on Egg Island as a new cruise ship destination.
There is an online change.org petition titled Save Egg Island (Bahamas)! Stop Disney Cruise Line! Preserve Egg Island! #saveeggisland.
http://www.cruiselawnews.com/2016/07/articles/pollution-1/disney-to-develop-egg-island-in-the-bahamas/
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Jul 19, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Bertram Comes to Tampa Bay
This report by Bryony McCabe comes from SuperYachtNews.com.
15 Jul 2016
Bertram acquires refit facility on Florida’s Tampa Bay
By Bryony McCabe
American boat builder Bertram has announced the acquisition of a waterfront facility on Florida’s Gulf Coast where it not only intends to build new Bertram yachts, but also fulfill clients’ service and refit needs.
The new Bertram headquarters is an existing 120,000-sq. ft shipyard and marine service facility located in Tampa, immediately south of the Gandy Bridge on Tampa Bay, and is capable of hauling yachts up to 120ft in length.

“This plant, which already has been operating as a full-service marine facility for decades, is perfect for Bertram in so many ways,” explains CEO Peter Truslow.
“It will allow us to create a complete Bertram manufacturing and service center in one of America’s most popular year-round boating destinations. The facility has a great layout, with 40-foot-high buildings and high-tech fibreglass construction equipment already in place that we can utilise to build our new Bertram 35’ and larger models.”
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT
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Jul 19, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
Civil Global Positioning System Service Interface Committee: Future Leap Second Scheduled
This added second to our GPS clocks is certain to be of assistance when you are trying to reach that next bridge opening! LOL! Isn’t technology amazing?
All CGSIC:
Yesterday, 18 July, the Air Force entered, into the GPS MCS, a Future Leap Second to become effective on 31 December 2016. As Navigation Uploads are/were performed over the following ~24 hours, GPS satellites will, one at a time, begin broadcasting this Future Leap Second, along with its date of effectivity and the Current Leap Second count, in accordance with IS-GPS-200. When specific satellites will begin broadcasting the new information will depend on the contact schedule over the next ~24 hours, which is dynamic and subject to real-time operations. When specific users will begin seeing the new information will depend on a number of factors, including satellite visibility and user equipment design.
V/R
Rick Hamilton
CGSIC Executive Secretariat
GPS Information Analysis Team Lead
U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center
703-313-5930
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Gene Fuller - July 22, 2016 - 2:07 pm

Very few people reading Cruisers’ Net would care about this. However, some GPS users and systems need to account for every second. The advanced notice is part of the long-standing GPS specification, and it allows for preparation time needed by those special users.
Gene
Reply to Gene

mahe - July 21, 2016 - 1:15 am

So would this mean that the new leap second would come into immediately ? The GPS doesnt bother about the leap second,however i believe it would offset an additional second. If the actual leap second is suppose to become effective 31 Dec 2016, why are these changes being performed now ?
Reply to mahe
Jul 18, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
New Chris Craft Models on Display, Sarasota, FL
This report by Chris Landry in Soundings’ Trade Only Today describes two new Chris Craft models.
Chris-Craft debuts new models at dealer meeting
Posted on July 18th, 2016
Written by Chris Landry
SARASOTA, Fla. — More than 150 representatives from Chris-Craft dealerships in the United States and around the world gathered here during the weekend for the opportunity to test the boatbuilder’s entire fleet, including the new flagship Commander 42 and the new Calypso 30 dual console.
It was the first public showing for both boats.
“This is our biggest event of the year,” Chris-Craft marketing director Allison Scharnow told me as I waited my turn to test the Calypso. “It’s the only time we have all the models in the water at the same time. Dealers and customers get to touch, feel and drive them, and talk to the engineers. It’s important for our customers and dealers to see them here, at a special event for them, not just at a boat show.”
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT AND PHOTOS
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Jul 18, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.1742,-80.26099999
Extreme Toxicity Reported in Okeechobee Waterway, Stuart, FL

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One of the four areas tested, Leighton Park, is in the South Fork of the St. Lucie River at Mile 9.5 of the Okeechobee Waterway just south of the Palm City Bridge. Central Marine is on the north side of the the Okeechobee/St.Lucie River, east of the New Roosevelt Bridge and Loggerhead Club and Marina. This report comes from WPTV.com of West Palm Beach, FL.
Report shows extreme toxicity in four bodies of water in Martin County
WPTV Webteam
12:00 PM, Jul 15, 2016
Water samples taken in Martin County show extreme toxicity in four bodies of water.
The analysis, done by chemists at the SUNY-College of Environmental Science and Forestry in New York, found that water samples from Leighton Park, Sandsprit Park, Deck and Central contained levels of microcystins that were “extremely high, well above the levels allowed for recreational contact.”
Special section: Toxic Water
Microcystins are toxins produced by cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae.
Those results are not surprising to Mary Radabaugh who manages Central Marine. That’s one of the locations where tests showed extreme toxicity.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT AND VIDEO
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