Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Apr 3, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
BoatUS News: Three “406 MHz Beacon Awareness Day” Tips
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and boating safety on all waters and SSECN is proud to have BoatUS as a SPONSOR!
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
A Personal Locator Beacon is designed to be worn by a crew member and can summon help far offshore.
Three “406 MHz Beacon Awareness Day” Tips
ANNAPOLIS, MD, April 1, 2016 – Many an offshore boater, sailor, or angler has appreciated the benefits of 406 MHz technology, which lies at the heart of every Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). Since 1997, the BoatUS Foundation EPIRB Rental Program has experienced 29 activations and 71 lives saved. To help promote the use of this life saving technology, the Foundation is supporting “406 MHz Beacon Awareness Day,” which aims to share three wise pre-season maintenance tips and offer ways for beacon owners – from circumnavigators to kayakers – to share their stories.
The April 6 Awareness Day was conceptualized by US beacon manufacturer, ACR Electronics, in an effort to support the National Safe Boating Council’s “Saved by the Beacon” Campaign, currently funded by US Coast Guard grants.
Three Beacon Spring Maintenance Tips for EPIRBs and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs):
1. Test your beacon: It won’t bite, or get you into trouble. All beacons have a simple self-test feature that won’t call in the cavalry. Use it. You’ll sleep well knowing it will be there for you when you need it.
2. Check the battery’s expiration date: No tools needed. If your battery is expired and it is not a user replaceable battery, contact the beacon’s manufacturer to find an authorized repair center near you.
3. Update the beacon’s registration with NOAA: While a computer is required, it’s a simple task at sarsat.noaa.gov/beacon.html. Outdated information could slow your rescue so it’s good to look at your registration data once a year with fresh eyes.
The BoatUS Foundation Rental Program offers both ACR and McMurdo GPS-enabled 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and EPIRBs for rent for $45 and $65 respectively per week at BoatUS.org/EPIRB.
About the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water:
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by donations from the over half-million members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), the non-profit provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America’s waterways and keeping boating safe for all. A range of boating safety courses – including 34 free state courses – can be found at BoatUS.org/courses.
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Apr 3, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
Bahamas Chatter: “New restaurant open at Spanish Wells Yacht Haven” plus Navigation Question

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: “New restaurant open at Spanish Wells Yacht Haven” plus 1 more
New restaurant open at Spanish Wells Yacht Haven
Posted: 02 Apr 2016 06:27 AM PDT
The Spanish Wells Yacht Haven restaurant (Wreckers) has just opened. It’s already apparent that they have too much landscaping and not enough parking along the road. Prices are not cheap, but not at Harbor Island rates. Food getting a good review, interesting presentation, some Greek leaning but with other offerings. A Spanish Wells pizza has all sorts of seafood on it. The restaurant is all open, but appears to have plastic curtains for inclement weather. The whole marina is quite attractive. It could be a game-changer for the Spanish Wells/Harbour Island area if it is managed well. (Information provided by a Spanish Wells resident)
Transiting the Devil’s Backbone
Posted: 01 Apr 2016 02:35 PM PDT
We are in Spanish Wells, waiting out the winds to head north to the Abacos. There is a north entrance that goes through the Devil’s backbone, but the guide books warn you to not do that; hire a pilot ($120) to guide you through, or go south around Egg Island, then go north to the Abacos. I’ve been looking at the charts and I’m really tempted to save the 20 miles going around to make our transit to Little Harbour easier. We are on a 36′ Grand Banks trawler with a 4.5 foot draft. Any thoughts from anyone?
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Nanci Whitley - April 8, 2016 - 6:19 pm

Just did the north passage last week. 3 boats, 5.5 and 6 ft. Follow way points on Explorer charts, no problem.
Reply to Nanci

Roger Howell - April 4, 2016 - 6:23 am

We have a 36 GB and have done both routes. Unless you have the urge to see some coral heads up close and personal (with or w/o a pilot) we would recommend repositioning at Royal Island , and sneak out Egg Island cut to the north of Little Egg Island. We left at first light and arrived Little Harbour Abaco by 1200 with little trauma.
Roger Howell
Reply to Roger
Apr 3, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Catamaran Skipper Seeks Boat Yard near Brunswick, GA
Skipper Ted is looking for a DIY boat yard for his catamaran. Let us know if you have recommendations.
Would like to know how to find out or post a message to find best marina in the New Brunswick GA area that can accommodate 24′ beam Cat for haul out and allows DIY bottom painting. Any help?? Thank you in advance. Ted
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Apr 2, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 24.8128,-80.91189999
Report from Channel Key Pass, Florida Keys Inside Route, Statute Mile 1179.5

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George is responding to a request for information on Channel Key Pass made several years ago by our friend Captain Charmaine Smith, see /58003. Channel Key Pass allows passage from Gulf to the Atlantic across Channel Key Banks north of Duck Key.
I came through there in August 1992, 2 days after Andrew had swept through Everglade City and pounded me on Marco Island. That leg of my journey, I traveled from Marco Island headed for “someplace” in the keys. As I approached this challenging bit of navigation on the chart, I decided to lower my sails and approach it under power for greater control. Our big difference is that my 25′ Capri only had a 4 foot draft. I must admit, I was so intent upon avoiding the reef (with concern about possible unexpected current shifts), I don’t recall ever checking the depth. After I emerged and approached the Channel 5 Bridge, a coin toss decided whether to head to Key Largo or to Key West. Key West won, but I actually lived at Faro Blanco in Marathon for one year. Considering the damage a reef can do to your boat and vice versus, I would always recommend taking it slow and staying within the markers as close to the middle as possible.
George
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Channel Key Pass
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Mar 31, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 26.6478,-81.86979999
More Good Words for Fort Myers Yacht Basin, Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway Statute Mile 135

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City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, lies along the southeasterly banks of the Caloosahatchee River, between the 3rd and 4th bridges from west to east. Our thanks to Tim and Lisa Keith-Lucas for this report.
We have difficulty entering marinas because we can’t maneuver easily. We visit most marinas once, and most we decide we cannot return to because they are more suited to boats with twin reversible engines and bow thrusters. This marina [Fort Myers Yacht Basin] graciously and cheerfully allows us to tie up on their outside wall. We are headed there for our 4th stay on the way home to the Apalachicola area. It is the only marina we have been in more than once. With all the amenities and fun things close by, what’s not to like?
MV Santa Catalina de Guale
Tim and Lisa Keith-Lucas
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Ft Myers Yacht Basin
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ft Myers Yacht Basin
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Leif Lustig - April 1, 2016 - 2:19 pm

Thank you for the positive endorsement folks. We sincerely appreciate the compliments as you and all the other area boaters are the only reason that we are here for.
Leif and the FMYB Crew
Leif Lustig, Dockmaster
City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin
http://Www.cityftmyers.com/381/yacht-basin
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Mar 30, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 31.8609,-81.08359999
Advice on Hell Gate Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

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We are always hearing of extreme shallows at Hell Gate and recent conflicting reports still indicate problems at low tide. See /153633 and /153843. This report comes from one of our friends in AGLCA. SSECN still recommends MID TO HIGH TIDE as a requirement for navigating through Hell Gate.
Hell Gate GA
As a general rule, this section is best attempted with a rising tide. I guided 5 sailboats through there last November 21, 2015 during the Sail 2015 Rally Down the ICW.. We entered Hell Gate at exactly dead low and proceeded slowly. Of the 6 of us all drawing between 4.5 and 6 feet only the 6 footer ran aground. We draw 4.5 feet and several of the other boats with us were 5.5 feet. We were fine at dead low. In my experience, it is best to stay off G 89 about 75-100 feet.
Reversing that route for north bound, stay center channel as you proceed into Hell Gate and then be on the west side of the as you approach G89, After the G89 continue north for about 300 feet before you actually take the turn towards the east. G89 does not exactly mark the actual bend in the channel After bend continue to stay west but then shift to the center of the channel as you approach the Vernon river.
The most recent crowd sourced charts show 4-5 feet in the channel at low water. Given that the tidal range here is 9 feet, If you approach Hell Gate an hour or two after low you will have plenty of water in the channel. If you would like to have a copy of my tracks, please PM me.
Cheers,
Tom
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Nelms Graham - September 25, 2016 - 5:14 am

Transited Hells Gate on 09/24/16 three hours after low tide, “bumped” in channel approx. 75ft. from marker “89”, in vessel drawing 2-‘6.
Reply to Nelms

James Newsome - August 31, 2016 - 11:47 am

I negotiated Hell’s Gate on Sunday 08/28/16 traveling northbound exactly two hours before low tide. High tide was approximately 7.3′ for this day. Therefore, we calculated that we had 1.25′ per hour x 2 = 2.5′ of water over low tide. The least water we saw was 8′ which means the net low was around 5.5′. We steered pretty much down the middle following the magenta line, not favoring any marker.
I draw 5’8″ to 6′ loaded which means I could have made this passage through Hell’s Gate an hour before low tide and barely had water under the keel. At low tide I could not have made it through.
Based on the draft of your vessel, Hell’s Gate is only a concern within an hour or two of low tide, and if you only draw 4.5′ you can travel through here any time of the day, unless there is a negative tide perhaps. Just take it slow and easy on the south side of Hell’s Gate. There is some squirrelly current on the southern entrance to Hell’s Gate, but it’s nothing to be too concerned about.
Reply to James
Mar 27, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.5464,-80.04879999
A Small Open Vessel and Boynton Inlet, near AICW Statute Mile 1034

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The Boynton Inlet intersects the Waterway at statute mile 1034 and access is restricted by a fixed 18ft vertical clearance bridge. Our thanks to Win Blodgett for sharing this experience which is posted here to remind cruisers of the risks involved with small boats and dinghys in inlets.
I grew up sailing from Maine to the Chesapeake Bay and have used a Boston Whaler Super Sport 170 (17′) for the past 15 years which I use primarily on the intracoastal. On really flat days it’s great to take it out of the Palm Beach inlet and along Palm Beach or Singer Island. Recently, I made a big mistake of trying to go out the Boynton Inlet at low tide with ocean waves of 2′ to 4′ Some breaking waves at the mouth of the inlet were easily 6′ and although I tried to take the waves bow first at an angle I was drenched head to toe and took on several inches of water before quickly turning about and heading back in. For a small boat in these conditions, that Boynton Inlet is quite treacherous!
Win Blodgett
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boynton Inlet
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Mar 27, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 25.1406,-80.9249999
A Good Visit to Flamingo Marina, Everglades National Park, Flamingo, West Florida

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Flamingo Marina is part of the Cape Sable Everglades National Park Service and is located in Flamingo, FL. Because of reported severe shoaling in the entrance channel, this facility has not recommended by SSECN in the past. However, Ken Roddenberry experienced no shoaling with 4ft draft at low tide.
Since the latest report was Jan 2015 [/146721] I thought we could give an update on what we experienced at Flamingo marina / Everglades NP visitors center. We traveled the west coast of Florida on our way to the middle Keys. From Marco to Goodland then Everglades City to Shark River we cruised into Flamingo on Feb 5, 2016. Our draft is 4 ft and we did not experience any problems at low tide. There are few if any crab pots inside the NP boundary. The marina is managed by a concierge and not the NP. Docks are in good repair. Pedestals need some work as many do not have service. So you will have to find one in service before completing your dock lines. ‘Flamingo Rick’ answered my call even though he doesn’t work there anymore. But he was very helpful in answering my questions. The pump out was not operating but the public facilities in the visitors center are excellent and adjacent to the docks. Showers are under the control of the concierge and were operating but we did not use them. The price is $2/ft. The water is potable and not objectionable. We planned to stay a couple of days but extended it for four nights waiting for a weather window. Wind was constant and probably kept the insects away. However on a bike ride to a back country area we were very uncomfortable and shortened our trip. Insect repellent is required.
Ken & Jo Roddenberry Monk 36 Friar Tuck
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Flamingo Marina
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Istvan Orosz - February 13, 2017 - 8:19 pm

Flamingo is a great place for boaters with draught less than 4′.
With 4′ to 5′ can enter on high tide only.
I have been there with my Beneteau-37 ( 4’7″) yesterday and today and would suggest to call this marina.
Istvan
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Mar 27, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Shared Photo, Key West Sunset
Key West Sunset by Melanie Hoff
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Skip Fowler - March 30, 2016 - 8:20 am

What a setting, what a setting…..
Brings back a lot of sunset cruise memories while visiting Key West.
Skip Fowler
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Mar 27, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 28.4079,-80.63399999
Advice Sought on Lifting Restrictions on Port Canaveral Lock, off AICW Statute Mile 894

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From the Atlantic, Canaveral Barge Canal, with a single 600X90ft lock, crosses Cape Canaveral and Merritt Island and intersects the Waterway at statute mile 894. The lock has been closed Monday – Friday from 7AM to 5PM since June of 2015. See /149146. Elizabeth King asks your political advice on changing these restrictions.
I am a Merritt Island resident. I’ve lived here since I was eleven years old. I would just like to know what we can do as a community to get the Port Canaveral locks opened on a consistent basis, the purpose of which would be to clean our rivers and breathe life back into our estuary. Thank you for any advice.
Elizabeth King
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Port Canaveral Lock
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Mar 26, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Bahamas Chatter: Isles General?

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: Isles General?
Isles General?
Posted: 25 Mar 2016 09:48 AM PDT
Hi,
We’re heading for SCYC soon. We’ve heard that Isles General’s hours have become unpredictable. Is there any truth to this? If true, what are the alternatives?
John (Duetto)
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Gigi Leader - March 27, 2016 - 10:10 am

We have been here most of the winter and have not had any issues.
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Mar 26, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
BoatUS News: What Does 50 Years of Boating Look Like?
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and boating safety on all waters and SSECN is proud to have BoatUS as a SPONSOR!
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
The April/May issue of nation’s largest recreational boating publication, BoatUS Magazine, takes a look back at 50 years of boating history.
What Does 50 Years of Boating Look Like?
BoatUS Magazine’s 50th Anniversary Edition
Chronicles People, Boats and Industry Innovation
ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 25, 2016 — If you wanted to look back at the last 50 years of boating, what would it look like? Turn to the just released April/May 2016 issue of BoatUS Magazine and you’ll find the answer. To celebrate the national boating advocacy, services and safety organization’s 50th Anniversary, the special issue includes a trip down memory lane with a look at the innovations, the people, and the big news of the last 50 years in boating.
Two features that share the history of recreational boating:
“Timeline 1966-2016” shares 50 years of boating innovation, records and top news across the world of boating and fishing. Through it all, BoatUS has been fighting the good fight, with policy, safety and clean water victories. Click here to view.
“Leaders and Legends”: The world of boating has attracted impressive individuals who’ve helped to make this the lifestyle we enjoy today. BoatUS selects 50 of the boating world’s most provocative innovators and newsmakers, and presents 27 behind-the-scenes profiles to entertain and inspire. Additional profiles will follow in upcoming issues. Click here to view.
BoatUS Magazine is the nation’s largest-circulation boating magazine with more than a half million readers, and is an exclusive member benefit.
To celebrate BoatUS’ 50th Anniversary, the latest issue of BoatUS Magazine includes a trip down memory lane with a look at the innovations, the people, and the big news of the last 50 years in boating http://goo.gl/kCmme9
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 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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Mar 26, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 8 Comments
A Boater’s Worst Nightmare!
This is one of those “worst case scenarios” the likes of which we can all imagine, but hope and pray it never happens to us. James, you have our sympathy.
This is an SOS and regards Florida impounding procedures for sailing vessels. My name is James Vause my vessel is the Lady Linda a ’72 Cal 33 racing cruiser registered in Florida and titled, I have lived aboard her for the last three years but have not made any legal steps to claim liveaboard status. on the 6th of March 2016 St Andrew Bay had severe weather. i had two anchors out one broke loose before dawn the other fouled and my vessel was pushed towards shore and between to docks i kept off both dock but tied to one in emergency restricted in ability to maneuver circumstance. the dock owner had me trespassed by the municipal police. as soon as able i un moored from his dock. Vessel aground i spent the next three days winching off a pilling of the other dock getting my vessel turned bow out to open water but still aground tho not hard. exhausted i left the boat moored to the pilling going to shore for rest and recuperation having spent alot of time in the water and being trespassed by both dock owners. upon my return to my vessel on the 15th march 2016 before dawn she was not there i reported the vessel stolen to the municipal police department on the following friday an investigator contacted me. his position was one of i am wrong for my boat being there after the verbal trespass warnings and my boat was probably towed. We both contacted coast guard and FWC offices. the FWC had impounded my boat having it towed the officer did try to contact me he said. Monday 21 i was given the information on the towing company to find that it cost 1200$ to tow and 150$ a day. at present its at 2550$ i have been cited with abandoned vessel and and nuisance to public charge and a court appearance. I am unemployed and on state welfare. it was under 48 hrs for the FWC to claim my legally registered and titled vessel to be abandoned and have it impounded. this is the future of boating in Florida waters.
James Vause
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Comments from Cruisers (8)

Chris -  April 15, 2016 - 7:51 am

Larry,
Having attended a few of the meetings hosted by the FWC on this topic, I did miss the sarcasm, simply because these are the asserted behaviors ascribed to cruisers in Florida by both land-based detractors and law enforcement. While most folks from out of state are miffed at their inability to do anything they please anywhere they please, many folks here in Florida with waterfront interests view them as either sheep for shearing or vermin for eradication. The only boats welcome here come with mega as a modifier or have center consoles and are billed for a slip or mooring. And when cruisers pull the cruisers won’t spend their money here if they are mistreated, people just snigger…what money? Cruisers spend far less in a year than Disney makes in a day. Cruisers in Florida who anchor are viewed as waterborne equivalent of street people and a few go out of their way to dress and act the part.
So I found Tim’s remark to be reinforcing of a stereotype rather than sarcasm.
Just one guy’s view. We no longer ply the AICW to any greater degree than necessary to get to the Abacos.
Keep up the good work.
Chris
Reply to Chris

R. Austin -  April 4, 2016 - 6:29 pm

Let me add a constructive comment. A sail boat is generally easier to get off from being aground that a power boat. Set two anchors out–one in the direction of the deeper water, the second forward of the beam. Take the spinnaker halyard to a bowline in the anchor which is set forward of the beam. Use the halyard winch to heel the boat over, as you take strain on the forward anchor. It does not take much heeling effect to reduce the draft enough to let the boat work free. This assumes that you have at least two spare anchors. Every cruising boat should have at least 4 anchors–Two bow, a stern and a kedge.
Reply to R.

Tranquility -  April 1, 2016 - 8:21 pm

Sorry for your plight, but it is because of boaters like yourself that Florida has taken the position it has. I don’t want to be mean and offend anyone, but there are several things this boater did wrong that landed him in this position. While he may not have been treated well by the locals, he had a duty as a boater to exercise due care and be responsible. The emergency happened and he was correct in his position at first, but when he left his vessel, even thou exhausted at trying to correct it’s peril, it became abandoned. This situation could have been avoided if the captain had a towing service policy which would of allowed him to get out of his situation in a timely manner. True, this cost money, but we all know that the freedom to boat is not necessarily free. Now the captain will have to pay after the fact to recover his vessel. In Florida’s eyes, this might very well have become another vessel that was abandoned. I have long been a proponent that Florida should require abandoned vessel insurance on all vessels registered in Florida. My sympathy is with this captain, however his actions led to this ultimate outcome.
Reply to Tranquility

Kris -  April 1, 2016 - 7:38 pm

And yet the authorities let obviously abandoned/derelict boats sit for months in places where they are a problem and even other boaters want them removed!! Go figure…
Reply to Kris

R. Austin -  April 1, 2016 - 5:36 pm

Unfortunately you abandoned your boat. I wonder what the interaction was between you and the owner of the docks? You had inadequate anchoring gear.
Your only recourse is to negotiate a settlement with the person who towed your boat. If you feel that it was unjust, then your have the option of legal action. Most likely you will loose.
You are fortunate that the person who towed your boat did not claim salvage.
Yes, I feel for your plight. But you should have never abandoned your boat. Part of being a responsible boater, cruiser is taking proper precautions to avoid such a situation. If it occurs, then you have to have the insurance and resources to handle the situation. What if you had caused $10,000 in damage to the property owners dock? What if you sunk his $ one million dollar boat?
Unfortunately the cruising life is not free. It has responsibilities.
Reply to R.

Michael Bennett -  April 1, 2016 - 2:26 pm

I for one am less than sympathetic. Mr. Vause embodies precisely what is wrong with some boaters who become lightning rods for homeowners and ruining boating for everyone else. He trespassed on two properties, denying those owners the use and enjoyment of their private property. It matters not how little time it might have been or why. His obligation is to get his boat off their properties. But, after three days aground he decides to go ashore for rest. If I were the property owner, I would not assume for a second that Mr. Vause had not abandoned the boat.
Owning a boat requires great responsibility and not insignificantly, a financial one as well. If you cannot afford to get your boat towed or if you lack the requisite seamanship skills to kedge off someone else’s property, you have no business being on the water. You have no right to infringe on others.
Folks with lower incomes are certainly entitled to own boats if they can afford it. Unemployed and on welfare? I’d say that is prima facie evidence that you cannot. You are out boating on working taxpayers’ dime? And you want sympathy? Unbelievable.
I applaud the Government officers who will finally address this epidemic of those, who in the exercise of their boating freedom give little thought to the rights of anyone except themselves.
We took our first trip to Florida this winter, from St. Mary’s River to Key West and disgusted by the shear number of abandoned and derelict boats. There is nothing else like it on the east coast. While I don’t condone the overreaction of influential property owners, I can understand their outrage and it is people like Mr. Vause who do nothing to ameliorate it.
Reply to Michael

Jerry -  April 1, 2016 - 2:13 pm

James, so sorry to hear of your plight. Yes, I believe you are correct. Boating in Florida waters is becoming a nightmare. I’m a boating snowbird and used to travel south in my boat in the winter to south Florida. Over the years. It became apparent I wasn’t wanted there. They wanted my money but not me and my boat. So I don’t go there anymore. There are other places to boat in winter. With Cuba opening up to boating, I think that will be a nice place to visit. Apparently, the state government doesn’t want us in Florida either, from what I’m reading. My solution would be to try to boat elsewhere. I have a good trawler that suits me fine. If I decide to sell it and buy another one, you can bet I will do neither in Florida! If they don’t want us there, then let’s spend our money elsewhere. Let’s buy and sell our boats where we use them. A boycott of Florida boat dealers and brokers might do more than anything else to address the boating situation in Florida. Good luck with the powers that be in Florida, but don’t expect too much compassion. They seem to be on a quest to stop boating in the state.
Respectfully,
Jerry
Reply to Jerry

tim -  April 1, 2016 - 1:26 pm

steal your boat back under cover of darkness and move it to another state. deny any knowledge of the matter and then sell the boat and get another out of state
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Mar 26, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 31.9796,-81.05619999
Good Words for Isle of Hope Marina, Savannah, GA, AICW Statute Mile 590

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Isle of Hope Marina – A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! – lies along the northwestern shores of the Waterway in the body of a hairpin turn northwest of Waterway marker #46A. And in case you missed their FOCUS ON, see /150925.
Have been at ISLE of hope now for about 2 1/2 years the staff is and has been great. The showers are always kept clean (you can always come in behind some one who leaves it messed up but the staff jump on it and make sure it’s cleaned. Restraints are close and downtown is full of things to do. Thanks and will probably keep coming back as we start our island hopping.
Nick on the Cavalier
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Isle of Hope Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Isle of Hope Marina
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Mar 25, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
onSpot wifi Expands Northward!
In marinas from Mile Zero to the Keys, and now into the Chesapeake, onSpot WiFi is installing what every internet seeking transient and resident wishes for all marinas: fast, reliable Hotspot internet connections. If your marina doesn’t have an onSpot WiFi system, pass this information along to management. You will be glad you did! It is always good to hear of successes in the marine industry, especially when by one of our SPONSORS!
We’re heading north!
We’re very proud to announce: By this time next week we’ll have completed the installations of two new marinas on the Chesapeake Bay.
Osprey Point Marina — Rock Hall, Maryland and Zahniser’s Yachting Center — Solomons Island, Maryland are coming online. We look forward to providing high speed WiFi for the boaters and supporting the marina personnel at both these fine facilities. We also hope this will lead to the installations of more marinas in the Chesapeake Bay area. There are many marinas up there and we would like to build a strong continuous network of hotspots in the Bay like our boaters enjoy in Florida.
Also, back in Florida, we just completed all the Loggerhead Marinas and we have several more marinas on the West Coast of Florida that are firming up quickly.
List of Marinas to date:
Maryland
Osprey Point Marina – Rock Hall, MD
Zahniser’s Yachting Center – Solomons Island, MD
Virginia
Atlantic Yacht Basin – Chesapeake, VA
North Carolina
Marina at St. James Plantation – Southport, NC
Georgia
Hinckley Yacht Services – Savannah, GA
Morningstar Marinas | Golden Isle – St. Simons Island, GA
Florida
Palm Coast Marina – Palm Coast, FL
Loggerhead Marina – Daytona Beach, FL
Boat Tree Marina – Sanford, FL
Ocean Club Marina – Port Canaveral, FL
Loggerhead Marina – Vero Beach, FL
Fort Pierce City Marina – Fort Pierce, FL
Loggerhead Marina – Stuart, FL
Sailfish Point Marina – Stuart, FL
Admirals Cove Marina – Jupiter, FL
The Bluffs Marina – Jupiter, FL
Loggerhead Marina – Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Soverel Harbour Marina – Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Old Port Cove Marina – North Palm Beach, FL
North Palm Beach Marina – North Palm Beach, FL
New Port Cove Marine Center – Riviera Beach, FL
Loggerhead Marina Lantana – Lake Worth, FL
Loggerhead Marina South Lantana – Lantana, FL
Bahia Mar Yachting Center – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Loggerhead Marina – Hollywood, FL
Loggerhead Marina Aventura – Miami, FL
Miami Beach Marina – Miami Beach, FL
Mangrove Marina – Tavernier, FL
Marathon Marina – Marathon, FL
Conch Harbor Marina – Key West, FL
Legacy Harbour – Fort Myers, FL
Bayfront Yacht Works – Sarasota, FL
Marina Jack – Sarasota, FL
Longboat Key Moorings – Longboat Key, FL
Riviera Dunes Marina – Palmetto, FL
Loggerhead Marina – St. Petersburg, FL
The Bahamas
Staniel Cay – Exumas, Bahamas
Compass Cay – Exumas, Bahamas
Bob Taylor
901 494 6821
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Bob Taylor - April 27, 2016 - 11:14 am

Hi Winston,
Just to wanting give you an update: We’ve just finished Westland Marina in Titusville, Fl and Homeport Marina on the west coast of Florida in Palm Harbor. By Friday, we’ll have finished Marco Island Yacht Club and we’ll be preparing for our trip to Nantucket to light up Nantucket Boat Basin.
Happily, things are moving on at a modest and manageable pace.
I’ll be cruising my boat up the east coast soon, maybe we can catch up somewhere in your neck of the woods.
Take care,
Bob Taylor
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Mar 24, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Sharp Lookout! Manatees are on the Move in Florida
Take it easy through the Manatee Areas, as well as on all inland waters. These slow moving mammals need your assistance. Read the recommendations below for spotting the manatees.
For immediate release: March 23, 2016
Look out boaters – manatees are on the move
Taking their cues from the warm spring weather, Florida manatees have begun leaving their winter retreats and heading north along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and through inland waters.
So if you’re a boater enjoying spring days on the water, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) cautions you to look out for manatees and follow posted manatee zones.
From April 1 through Nov. 15, seasonal manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to prevent manatees from being struck by motorboats or personal watercraft.
FWC law enforcement officers will be on patrol in state waters to remind boaters of the seasonal manatee speed zones and will take enforcement actions when necessary. Manatee zones and maps are available at MyFWC.com/Manatee, where you can select “Protection Zones” for links to county maps.
“Our officers do their very best to support conservation of this species,” said FWC Capt. Gary Klein. “We ask that boaters take notice of the zones and do their part as well by increasing their awareness of the possible presence of manatees.”
Because manatees are large, slow-moving and difficult to detect when underwater, operators of boats and personal watercraft need to take basic steps to avoid causing injury to manatees:
Wear polarized sunglasses to help spot manatees.
Look for the large circles on the water, also known as manatee footprints, indicating the presence of a manatee below.
Look for a snout sticking up out of the water.
Follow posted manatee zones while boating.
The FWC also asks anyone seeing an injured, distressed, sick or dead manatee to call the agency’s Wildlife Alert Hotline, 888-404-3922 (FWCC) or dial #FWC or *FWC on a cell phone.
You can watch manatees without disturbing them if you follow “Guidelines for protecting native wildlife – Florida Manatees,” a brochure that includes tips for canoers, kayakers, paddle boarders, snorkelers and scuba divers. It’s available at MyFWC.com/Manatees, click on “Boat, Personal Watercraft and Paddle-sport Operators” and then on “Paddle-sport Operators.”
Support the FWC’s manatee research, rescue and management efforts by purchasing a “Save the Manatee” Florida license plate at BuyaPlate.com, or by donating $5 to receive an FWC manatee decal by going to MyFWC.com/Manatee and clicking on “Decals.”
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Mar 23, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Bahamas Chatter: “Island Farm Produce at S. Palmetto Point” plus 1 more

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: “Island Farm Produce at S. Palmetto Point” plus 1 more
Island Farm Produce at S. Palmetto Point
Posted: 22 Mar 2016 05:07 AM PDT
Island Farm is a 20-minute walk from the anchorage. Great vegetable selection. New phone number is 332-0333 or cell #464-0992. Fresh-baked bread is sold at 9 AM Tuesday and Friday, but sells out quickly.
Hatchet Bay Laundry
Posted: 22 Mar 2016 04:55 AM PDT
A large clean laundromat is located ~3/4 mile north of the Front Porch restaurant on Queens Hwy. It is Miracle Wash, 335-0003. $3 per wash and $4 per dryer.
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Mar 22, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Help Beach Nesting Birds by Giving Them Space
This Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission news is for our beach combing friends who love to dinghy ashore and explore all the beautiful beaches of our east and west coasts.
For immediate release: March 22, 2016
Help beach-nesting shorebirds by giving them space
Shorebird nesting season is underway along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds beachgoers to watch out for and to avoid disturbing birds and their young. Shorebirds build shallow nests out of sand and shells on beaches in spring and summer, hatching chicks that are difficult to see.
Shorebird nests, eggs and chicks are well camouflaged and can easily be missed and even stepped on unless people know to look out for them. The snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, American oystercatcher and Wilson’s plover are several of Florida’s beach-nesting shorebird species that face conservation challenges. Despite these challenges, shorebirds can benefit from increased awareness by the public.
“People visiting Florida’s beaches and coastline can really have an impact on whether shorebirds have a successful nesting season,” said Nancy Douglass, who works on shorebird conservation at the FWC. “Following a few simple steps while enjoying the beach can help nesting shorebirds succeed, giving future generations of beach-goers the opportunity to see these iconic birds along our coasts.”
Ways to protect beach-nesting shorebirds:
Keep your distance, whether on the beach or paddling watercraft along the shore. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet from a nest. Birds calling out loudly and dive-bombing are signals for you to back off.
Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting sites and use designated walkways when possible. Wildlife photographers should ensure that no camera equipment extends beyond posted area strings or signs and limit photography to no more than 10 minutes to avoid stressing nesting birds.
Never intentionally force birds to fly or run. This causes them to use up energy needed for nesting, and eggs and chicks may be left vulnerable to the sun’s heat or predators. Teach children not to chase shorebirds and kindly ask fellow beach-goers to do the same. Shorebirds outside of posted areas may be feeding or resting and need to do so wihtout disturbance.
It is best not to take pets to the beach, but if you do, keep them leashed and avoid shorebird nesting areas.
Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows, which can prey on shorebird chicks. Litter on beaches can entangle birds and other wildlife.
Spread the word. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently let them know how their actions may hurt the birds’ survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), #FWC or *FWC on a cell phone or by texting Tip@MyFWC.com. You may also report nests that are not posted to Wildlife Alert.
For more information, go to MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the “Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds” brochure. Read the FWC’s plan for four imperiled beach-nesting bird species, part of the broader Imperiled Species Management Plan: http://myfwc.com/media/2720106/Imperiled-Beach-Nesting-Birds-Species-Action-Plan-Final-Draft.pdf. Or go to the Florida Shorebird Alliance at www.flshorebirdalliance.org.
In addition to other migratory birds, all shorebird and seabird species found in Florida are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This year marks the centennial of the first Migratory Bird Treaty, which the United States signed with Great Britain on behalf of Canada. This treaty, along with three treaties that followed with Mexico, Japan and Russia, set the stage for the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act and solidified international commitment to migratory bird conservation. Learn more about the Migratory Bird Treaty Centennial at www.fws.gov/birds/mbtreaty100.
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Mar 21, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
NOAA News: US and Cuba Agree to Improve Maritime Navigation Safety

U.S., Cuba agree on efforts to improve maritime navigation safety
Memorandum of Understanding signed in Havana
Contact
Ben Sherman, ben.sherman@noaa.gov; 240-533-0496, 202-253-5256 (cell)
Dawn Forsythe, dawn.forsythe@noaa.gov, 240-429-6125 (cell)
March 21, 2016
Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, the Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, and Col. Candido Alfredo Regalado Gomez, Chief of Cuba’s National Office of Hydrography and Geodesy (ONHG), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to improve maritime navigation safety and related areas of mutual interest to protect lives and property at sea.
`NOAA has a strong interest in both improving navigational safety and in protecting the marine environment in the heavily travelled and vibrant waters between our two countries in the Straits of Florida,’ said Russell Callender, Ph.D., assistant NOAA administrator for the National Ocean Service. `We welcome this agreement and the progress it represents.’
`Improved navigation services are important for commercial mariners and individual boaters alike,’ said Ambassador DeLaurentis, `and it is particularly important as authorized trade and authorized travel increase between the two countries.’
NOAA Chart – 11013_Public
In addition to updating data on domestic charts like the NOAA chart above, the U.S. and Cuba agreed to work together on a new international paper chart, INT Chart 4149, which will cover south Florida, the Bahamas, and north Cuba. The memorandum of understanding between the two countries was signed last Friday in Havana. (Credit: NOAA)
The MOU calls for cooperation in the areas of hydrography, oceanography, geodesy and related services of mutual interest. One of the major focuses will be to improve maritime navigation safety including efforts to ensure the accuracy of both electronic and paper charts, eliminate charting overlaps and fill in gaps in navigational chart coverage.
`This MOU will allow us to fill gaps in essential navigational data, working on a practical level with our Cuban counterparts,’ said Kathryn Ries, deputy director of NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey. `The U.S. works with hydrographic offices of all nations that have waters adjacent to the United States and our territories, and this agreement improves the exchange of charting information with Cuba as well.’
In February 2015, less than two months after President Obama announced the United States’ new approach toward Cuba, NOAA and ONHG, through a set of reciprocal exchanges, launched what became a year-long effort to formulate the technical exchange that is a normal course of affairs between most of the other maritime nations of the world. Both agencies are working on plans for monitoring and forecasting tides and currents for ports and improving positioning networks among other related scientific and technical activities. The MOU is the first step in what is expected to be a long-term collaboration between the two countries.
In addition to aligning each country’s navigational charts, NOAA and ONHG are sharing data for the creation of a new international chart (known in mariner’s parlance as `INT chart’) 4149, which will cover south Florida, the Bahamas, and north Cuba. NOAA plans to publish the new chart this year.
NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey, originally formed by President Thomas Jefferson in 1807, maintains the nation’s nautical charts, surveys the coastal seafloor, responds to national maritime emergencies, and searches for underwater obstructions and wreckage.
NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and our other social media channels.
And this from www.thelog.com:
U.S., Cuba agree on efforts to improve maritime navigation safety
posted: 4/18/2016
In addition to updating data on domestic charts like the NOAA chart above, the U.S. and Cuba agreed to work together on a new international paper chart which will cover south Florida, the Bahamas and northern Cuba. (NOAA)
Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, the chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, and Col. Candido Alfredo Regalado Gomez, chief of Cuba’s National Office of Hydrography and Geodesy (ONHG), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to improve maritime navigation safety and related areas of mutual interest to protect lives and property at sea.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the signing, which calls for cooperation in the areas of hydrography, oceanography, geodesy and related services of mutual interest, on March 21.
A major focus will be to improve maritime navigation safety including efforts to ensure the accuracy of both electronic and paper charts, eliminate charting overlaps and fill in gaps in navigational chart coverage.
NOAA and ONHG are working on plans for monitoring and forecasting tides and currents for ports and improving positioning networks among related scientific and technical activities.
The MOU is the first step in what is expected to be long-term collaboration between the two countries.
– See more at: http://www.thelog.com/SNW/Article/U-S—Cuba-agree-on-efforts-to-improve-maritime-navigation-safety#sthash.8a7tdNPz.dpuf
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Raymond Mifsud - April 1, 2016 - 1:43 pm

Are The NOAA Charts Mentioned In This Article Available For Purchase Yet . They Are : NOAA Chart – 11013- public
NOAA INT Chart 4149
If So Where Can We Purchase Them ?
All The Best , Raymond Mifsud , Owner Trawlers Direct , LLC
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Mar 21, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 36.0558,-76.61129999
Curtis Stokes & Associates presents “Journey”, Edenton, NC, Albemarle Sound

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SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET is proud to welcome our newest sponsor, Curtis Stokes and Associates of North Carolina.
Historic Edenton, also A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is 300 Years Young! Come and let them prove it!
Curtis Stokes & Associates presents “Journey”….
At Curtis Stokes & Associates, we specialize in marketing some of the finest vessels available in the Southeast. Located in Jacksonville, NC, “Journey” is a prime example. She is a classic 2006 36′ Monk Double Cabin trawler whose experienced owner has maintained her in turn-key condition and is willing to assist the buyer with delivery and – or training. Get a complete description and view a video of this beautiful boat here: http://www.curtisstokes.net/trawler-for-sale-monk36-journey.html.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to view “Journey” please call Wayne Smith in Edenton, NC, at 516-445-1932 or you can email him at wayne@curtisstokes.net.
Our customers know they can come to Curtis Stokes & Associates to find some of the most seaworthy yachts on the market today. If you have a boat to sell, find out how we can market your vessel not just here in the Southeast but throughout the country and in overseas markets as well. And if you’re in the market for a boat, find out about our buyer broker service here: http://www.curtisstokes.net/yacht-buyer-brokerage-service.html.
To view our complete inventory of fine yachts visit us at www.curtisstokes.net
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Edenton Harbor (City Docks)
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor (City Docks)
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