Visit Logged
  •  Chart View
    • At Current Location
    • At Selected Location
    • Enter A Location
    • Enter Latitude and Longitude
  •  Fuel Prices
    • Lowest Diesel Prices Anywhere
    • Lowest Gas Prices Anywhere
    • Virgina to North Carolina
    • North Carolina
    • South Carolina
    • Georgia
    • Eastern Florida
    • St. Johns River
    • Florida Keys
    • Okeechobee Waterway
    • Western Florida
  • Select Region
    • All Regions
    • VA to NC Line
    • North Carolina
    • South Carolina
    • Georgia
    • Eastern Florida
    • Western Florida
    • Florida Keys
    • Okeechobee Waterway
    • Northern Gulf
    • Bahamas
    • New York
    • Ohio
    • Pennsylvania
    • Washington
    • Puerto Rico
    • Minnesota
    • Maryland
    • Tennessee
    Order by:
    • Mar 19, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Fl Derelict Removal Grants Program Public Meeting, April 4, Fort Pierce, FL

      Our thanks to Perry McDonald for sending us this notice of a public meeting on April 4 in Fort Pierce. Fort Pierce is home to SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Fort Pierce City Marina.

      fwc

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is currently revising rule language for the implementation of its Derelict Vessel Removal Grants Program. The FWC is awaiting the Governor’s signature on a $1,400,000 appropriation for the removal of derelict vessels within Florida’s public waters. FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section will be distributing these funds to state and local governmental entities over the course of the 2016-2017 state fiscal year. To effectively distribute these funds, FWC is revising its grant rule 68-1.003, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) to remove obsolete language and incorporate the revised program guidelines.
      A public rule development workshop will be held to introduce the draft rule and guidelines language and to solicit input from the public and stakeholders before the rule and guidelines are taken to the Commission. Your participation is encouraged.

      This public meeting will be held April 4, 2016, 1:00pm – 4:00pm St. Lucie Board of County Commission Chambers 2300 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, Florida, 34982

      For further information pertaining to the FWC Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program, please contact:

      Phil Horning Derelict Vessel Program Administrator Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement Boating and Waterways Section (850) 617-9540 or email Phil.Horning@MyFWC.com

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 18, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 5 Comments

      Announcing the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net Mobile App

      AppIcon198x198RoundedCornersQuestion: How many Mobile Apps does one need ?

      Answer: Just those that SERVE one’s needs !!

      That is exactly what the team at Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net has been working on, carrying out plans made just months before the untimely death of the SSECN founder Claiborne Young.

      Back in 2005, Claiborne stated that the purpose of SSECN would be, “Cruisers Helping Cruisers.”  This became the motto for SSECN and is the core strength of its daily operations. The effort to bring a mobile app to the cruising community that would put the timely and content rich Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net at the finger tips of the skipper while underway is the result of many cruisers trying to help other cruisers. The SSECN Mobile App is easy to use with an intuitive interface.

      True to the SSECN website the SSECN Mobile App is FREE.

      https://itunes.apple.com/ie/app/ssecn/id964496104

      Take a look at all that is available to the captain and crew, while underway, using its cartographic features and continually updated information:

      ExampleiPadScreen

      • Current waterway and mile marker location
      • Continuously displays the appropriate side ICW yellow triangle/square will be found on markers/buoys
      • Items that are ahead and astern, providing for each item:
      1. – Mile marker
      2. – Distance from current location
      3. – Bearing from current location
      4. – Time to go at current speed (TTG)
      5. – Estimate time of arrival (ETA)  – extremely helpful to time arrive at bridges
      • Items can be filtered by:
      1. – Alerts
      2. – ICW Problem Areas
      3. – General Information items
      4. – Posts
      5. – Local Notice to Mariners (LNM)
      6. – Marinas
      7. – Bridges
      8. – Anchorages
      • Filtering for items can be by date posted:
      1. – All
      2. – Within 180 days
      3. – Within 90 days
      4. – Within 30 days
      5. – None

      All submitted information from cruisers who have just navigated waters where you may be headed is vetted for accuracy.  Local Notices to Mariners and Navigation Alerts are readily available to the skipper while underway with high-resolution charts, as well as maps for planning purposes.

      Fuel prices and daily postings are automatically updated, so your information is always current.
      With the fuel price menu, you can quickly find the best fuel prices nearest you and/or the closest fuel available to you, sorted by type, price, location, and range.

      Currently available for iPhones or iPads, plans are to have an Android release soon also.

      All this always available on line or off line because of the full support of the SSECN Sponsors whose contact information will also be seen on this new tool for cruisers.

      We highly recommend that if you cruise from Mile Marker “0” to Mobile, AL, get it, use it, and report back to us your thoughts and suggestions!!

      https://itunes.apple.com/ie/app/ssecn/id964496104

      Thank you,

      The Salty Southeast Cruisers Net Team


      Get in App Store

       

      3 Facebook Likes, 3 Facebook Reactions

      Comments from Cruisers (5)

      2. Bert Baxter -  March 19, 2016 - 4:47 pm

        Android has 80% market share, makes perfect sense to make an apple app first.

        Reply to Bert
      3. Larry Dorminy -  March 16, 2016 - 10:03 am

        Hello Larry & team,
        I just received the email about your new iOS app. Congratulations on finishing what must have been a real project. I’m in Annapolis and won’t be on the ICW until mid-April in Ft Lauderdale and late April in Norfolk (offshore between). The app seems to work great. I look forward to trying the location specific parts next month.
        I frequently speak on a range of topics, including communication alternatives for cruisers. I will update my resource list handout (which already includes SSECN) to include your app. Next distribution will be the AGLCA Spring Rendezvous in Norfolk VA.
        Good job.
        sail fast and eat well, dave
        Dave Skolnick S/V Auspicious

        Reply to Larry
    • Mar 18, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Boater Safety Bill Goes to FL Gov. Scott

      This article by Jim Flannery from Sounding’ TradeOnlyToday.com describes a new bill supporting the use of EPIRBs aboard Florida vessels. CLICK HERE for the full article.

      Florida boater-safety bill goes to governor
      Posted on March 17th, 2016
      Written by Jim Flannery
      Inspired by a desire to spare parents the pain of losing their children in boating accidents, a bill that would give boaters a registration discount if they carry an EPIRB or personal locator beacon aboard cleared the Florida legislature.
      The House and Senate passed the bill in unanimous votes and Gov. Rick Scott is expected to sign it. The measure would discount registrations by almost 23 percent for the smallest boats and 11.9 percent for the largest ones — with markdowns ranging from 15 to 13 percent for size classes in between — for boat owners who can show they own a properly registered 406 MHz EPIRB or PLB.

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 18, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Bahamas Chatter: “VAT Surprise” plus 1 more

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas
      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: “VAT Surprise” plus 1 more
      VAT Surprise
      Posted: 17 Mar 2016 03:54 AM PDT
      We recently had parts shipped to us in Marsh Harbour. We’ve discovered Abaco Freight in Jupiter, but that’s another blurb. Our water heater sprang a leak and needed a gasket. Parts supplier was in Boston, so we had gasket Fedex’ed Overnite to Jupiter and then Abaco Freight shipped it to MH via Cherokee Air. The parts were $52, Fedex US shipping was $70 (remember this number), Abaco Freight was $20. The invoice from the parts house showed $122. When I picked up the package the VAT was $11.41. I assumed the VAT would be on $52 + $20. Wrong! Remember that $70 US Fedex charge, that was also included.
      The moral of the story is try to minimize your TOTAL shipping cost, including all US shipping.
      John (MV Duetto)

      Shipping into Marsh Harbour (Abaco)
      Posted: 17 Mar 2016 03:53 AM PDT
      This is a quick note on getting packages shipped to Marsh Harbour from the US.
      We recently needed to have 2 steering cylinders shipped from the US. We’ve had small items sent in the past and have used Fedex with good results. The cylinders were approximately 3″x3″x36″ and weighed 7 lbs each. I priced the cylinders from 2 distributors and they were virtually the same price. The Fedex charge was vastly different, $275 vs $125. Even at the lower price I thought that I would explore alternatives. I called Aramak shippers in Marsh Harbour. They said it was too small for them but they put me in touch with Abaco Freight in Jupiter, FL. I emailed them and Kimber Mazzeo (nick@abacofreight.com), the owner, got back to me right away. She explained that based on my sizing, the shipping cost would be $40 and they take care of getting parts through customs. She also explained in detail that she needed electronic copies of the cruising permit and an electronic invoice with the boat’s name on it. So the process is the distributor ships to Abaco Freight c/o you. They put it on a Cherokee Air flight (m-w-f) and you pick it up at the Marsh Harbour airport. I have to say from the time we placed the order we had the parts within 5 business day with no drama.
      As an aside one of the distributors shipped for free, so the end to end shipping cost was $40.
      John (mv Duetto)

      1 Facebook Likes, 1 Facebook Reactions

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Danny Fraino -  March 18, 2016 - 1:18 pm

        The VAT tax adds an average of 12% to the landed cost of the item. So if an item costs $100 including the freight charges the VAT will be an additional $12. This is in addition to whatever the Bahamas import duty charges are on the item.

        Reply to Danny
    • Mar 17, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 30.993,-81.41279999

      Course Suggestion for St. Andrew Sound, AICW Statute Mile 690


       View In Chartview

      Bypassing Marker #32 in St. Andrew Sound to avoid open ocean waters has been the topic of much discussion in the past, see /130975 and /130801. Rick offers a straight forward course that does not require extra miles of travel. Mid to high tide would be essential for this route. If you try this course, let us hear from you.

      Cruising News
      We are local to this area and find that if we run along a line between the larger water tank on Jekyll with the lighthouse on Little Cumberland we have no problems with depth. We only draw 4.5′ but I don’t recall ever seeing single digit depths along this line. I’m not recalling any number below 12′. In timing out passage through Jekyll Creek we try to pass here at half tide which would be +3 above normal MLLW.
      Rick

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of St. Andrew Sound

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. John F Pholeric, Jr -  March 19, 2016 - 7:13 am

        We have cut the R-32 buoy for several years. Our draft is 4 feet and I don’t recall seeing less than 4 feet even at low tide.

        Reply to John
      2. Peter Colket -  March 18, 2016 - 5:07 pm

        I have followed the suggested “shortcut” countless times in the last 10 years. Draw 4 feet, usually find 12 foot depths.

        Reply to Peter
    • Mar 16, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9428,-80.07099999

      Shoaling Reported in Jupiter Inlet, near AICW Statute Mile 1005, 3/16/2016


       View In Chartview

      Jupiter Inlet intersects the Waterway near statute mile 1005  at Loxahatchee River and was last dredged in February of 2014. Jupiter Inlet is prone to shoaling and passage is not recommended without local knowledge.


      FLORIDA – PALM SHORES TO WEST PALM BEACH – JUPITER INLET: Hazard to Navigation/SHOALING
      Shoaling has been reported in Jupiter Inlet. Depths as low as 5 feet have been reported at low tide. A white Danger Shoal Buoy displaying a FL QW light has been set where the most significant shoaling has been found in position 26-56-53.617N/080-04-45.846W (26°56.8936N / 080°4.7641W, 26.948227 / -80.079402) . Mariners are strongly encouraged to use extreme caution while transiting the area.
      Chart 11472 LNM 11/16

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Jupiter Inlet

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 16, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Inlet and Near Shore Navigation Aids Survey Available from USCG

      This survey is of particular interest to our off shore navigators. Please note the deadline of May 31, 2016.

      U.S. COAST GUARD – ATLANTIC OCEAN AND GULF OF MEXICO SEACOAST AIDS TO NAVIGATION SURVEY
      This Coast Guard Waterways Analysis and Management System (WAMS) survey is focused on both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico Seacoast System, open water systems typically traveled by mariners arriving from an ocean voyage or transiting along the coast. In addition to stakeholder input, the study will also consider environmental concerns, user capabilities, available technology and available resources. This assessment is the first in a series of national-level reviews that are part of the Future of Navigation initiative. The initiative seeks to improve service delivery for marine safety information, modernize the Coast Guard’s physical Aids-to-Navigation (ATON) system, incorporate Automatic Identification System (AIS) ATON where appropriate and improve communications with Marine Transportation System (MTS) stakeholders. Individual mariners and interested maritime industry representatives can provide input until May 31, 2016, at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SeacoastWAMS LNM 11/16

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 16, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 32.4277,-80.66929999

      A Driver’s Perspective on Ladys Island Swing Bridge Closures, AICW Statute Mile 536


       View In Chartview

      Fran is expressing exactly the frustration that we are experiencing here in Charleston. More and more development on our coastal islands is underway without adequate supporting construction of roadways and bridges to accommodate the resulting increase in vehicle traffic. Until planners either wake up to the downside of rampant development, drivers and boaters alike are going to continue to suffer long waits during rush hours or in emergency evacuations. SSECN asks, that as you confront fewer and fewer bridge openings, please be patient! Rarely is delayed vessel travel as dangerous as miles of backed up idling vehicles. And DO NOT yell at the Bridge Tender! It is NOT their fault. If you want to yell at someone, yell at the developers and city planners!
      Fran is responding to an earlier comments on Ladys Island Bridge in Beaufort, SC.

      I live on Lady’s Island and work in Burton. If anyone traveling from Beaufort to Lady’s Island or the outer Islands thinks there is NOT a traffic problem when this bridge opens and closes, they are delusional. I’ve lived at my residence since 1976. The growth on the Lady’s Island side is enormous and once the Wal-Mart is built, it will be a nightmare. It [congestion] already is when the Woods Bridge breaks down. The McTeer Bridge is not adequate to accommodate traffic to or from Lady’s Island, St. Helena, Fripp Island, etc. The only solution to this issue is to build another bridge or limit the bridge openings. Traffic backs up well beyond Bellamy Curve during rush hours in the evening. I can’t even imagine what traffic is going to be like should a hurricane head to Beaufort. Well, actually I can. During Hurricane Fred it took two hours to get from Lady’s Island to the National Cemetary on Boundary… and 11 hours to get to Atlanta. People will need to evacuate Beaufort a week in advance of hurricane at the rate the population of Beaufort is growing on the Lady’s Island side.
      Fran H

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Bridge Directory Listing For Ladys Island Bridge

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ladys Island Bridge

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. RBEmerson -  March 19, 2016 - 8:24 am

        Having driven in the area, too, I certainly agree that the bridge is a major bottleneck for road traffic. But it’s equally a nightmare for water traffic. I remain amazed that a fixed bridge hasn’t replaced the swing bridge. I understand that finding a suitable site, that doesn’t harm Beaufort and the community on Ladys Island will be a challenge. Nonetheless, it’s something South Carolina should have done years ago.

        In the meantime, we will continue to avoid the area, which currently effectively blocks the AICW rather than find a solution that serves land and water traffic.

        Reply to RBEmerson
    • Mar 15, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.1543,-80.97569999

      Good Words for Seven Seas Marina and Boatyard, AICW Statute Mile 835


       View In Chartview

      Seven Seas Marina & Boatyard lies east-northeast of AICW marker #56 and just north of the Port Orange high-rise bridge.

      This our second time here. This time we had an oil leak on one engine and there just happened to be a mechanic available. He found a leaking fitting and fixed us up. The marina has been here since the 80’s and has a mixture of fixed and floating docks. They are a bit worn but in good condition. The channel is narrow but very well marked. We are on the fuel dock for the night. Everyone is helpful and friendly. We will stay here again.
      Dave Boxmeyer

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Eastern Florida Marina Directory Listing For Seven Seas Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Seven Seas Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 15, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      BoatUS News: Request to FL Gov. Scott to Veto Anchoring Bill

      Boat U.S.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

      BoatUS Asks FL Governor Scott to Veto Special Anchoring Carve Out
      TALLAHASSEE, Fla. March 15, 2016 – Allowing a select few to carve out their own special anchoring restrictions, and bypassing a pilot program designed to provide practical, uniform anchoring regulations statewide is a mistake, says BoatUS President Margaret Bonds Podlich in a letter sent today to Florida Governor Rick Scott. Podlich, who represents over 115,000 members in the state and over half a million nationwide, is asking the Governor to veto House Bill 1051, which would ban the overnight anchoring of boats in three specific areas of South Florida, providing special privileges to these select areas.

      Said Podlich in her letter to Governor Scott, “BoatUS believes that creating special carve outs directly counters the years of effort that have gone into developing rational statewide anchoring regulations.”

      “For many boat owners one of the joys of boating is to travel to new places, drop anchor, dock or pick up a mooring and then spend time and money exploring the local community. Prior to 2009, boats cruising Florida faced a hodge-podge of inconsistent local anchoring rules that made boaters feel very unwelcome in some of the state’s waters. We heard from many of our members who found communities whose ordinances banned or severely limited anchoring in their jurisdictions.”

      “BoatUS actively supported the 2009 legislation to create the Florida Mooring and Anchoring Pilot Program and thereafter we worked with all five of the local jurisdictions as they developed their ordinances.”

      The BoatUS President highlighted Pilot Program provisions designed to promote the use of mooring fields, promote public access, enhance navigational safety, protect maritime infrastructure and the marine environment, and to deter improperly stored, abandoned, or derelict vessels.

      “We remain firmly convinced the Pilot Program can provide some elements that local governments might use to manage their waterways while still allowing a full range of mooring and anchoring options for active cruising boaters. Local governments throughout the state have patiently waited for a balanced approach, one that will emerge in 2017 from the Pilot Program results,” added Podlich.

      “Enactment of House Bill 1051 – with its provisions of special exceptions when it comes to overnight anchoring in three very specific areas of the state – is directly counter to all the time, effort and financial resources that have gone into creating anchoring rules that are fair to everyone.”

      The full text of the letter to Governor Scott can be found at BoatUS.com/gov.

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. James Ebmeyer -  March 25, 2016 - 8:02 pm

        This proposal is ridiculous. The waterways in the U.S. are public property. Florida benefits from the millions of dollars spent by boaters, and tourists traveling via auto, bus, air and train. But boaters get the brunt of Floridian abuse, because they are easier to see and track. If the Florida marinas, restaurants, attractions, etc. want to continue to profit from tourist spending, then this Bill must be vetoed. The few rich shore-side property owners must not be allowed to ruin the livelihoods of marina owners, etc., because they want to have the water all to themselves.

        Reply to James
    • Mar 14, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.6686,-81.21559999

      A Great Stay at Marineland Marina, AICW Statute Mile 796


       View In Chartview

      The Town of Marineland has opened its ports with a brand new marina facility creating a destination for boaters on the Intracoastal Waterway between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, FL.

      Good reports keep pouring in for SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Marineland Marina which lies south – southeast of AICW marker #87, along the Waterway’s eastern shore.

      Another great stay at Marineland. These folks really know how to make you feel welcome. Easy access to the ICW, nice facilities, friendly people, and reasonable prices…what more can you ask ? Our second time and hopefully we’ll have many more. We recommend it highly.
      Capt Jack B-H and First Mate Steve O.
      Delivering the trawler “Whatever” from New Bern, NC to Daytona Beach

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marineland Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marineland Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 13, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Bahamas Chatter: Route from Bimini to Stirrup Cay question

      Explorer Charts - the best charts for the Bahamas and Exumas
      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: Route from Bimini to Stirrup Cay question
      Route from Bimini to Stirrup Cay question
      Posted: 11 Mar 2016 09:51 AM PST
      We intend to spend some time at Great Harbor Cay this year. We are interested in the route north of Bimini to Stirrup Cay. We draw 5.5 feet. Can anyone give us information on this route and it use with our draft?

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 13, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.7264,-80.23479999

      Disastrous Relationship with Dinner Key Marina, Biscayne Bay, Miami, AICW Statute Mile 1095


       View In Chartview

      Dinner Key Marina is located at the western end of Dinner Key Channel on the western shore of Biscayne Bay. For more typical comments on Dinner Key Marina, see /25334.

      If the customer service in most places in Miami is subpar, then the service at Dinner Key Marina is absolute garbage. The kind of service that makes you immediately regret having moved to Miami (and I speak fluent Spanish). The kind of service that forces you to set aside ample time to sit down and write a juicy, one star review just like the one that you are about to read. So you do not mistake this review for one coming from a non-credible source, I should probably mention that I am a USCG licensed Captain (50 ton Master) and a Cambridge engineering graduate with 20 years of boating experience. Also for the record, I have never really written a review before, but this nightmare could not have gone unpublished. Here is the sequence of events:

      1. I signed a one year contract with the marina for a commercial slip in August of 2014. The plan was to run charters to small groups of elite guests aboard my 41-foot Maxum. Having endured a 3-hour long trip down from Fort Lauderdale, my father and I finally pulled into our allocated slip. The very next morning, we were rudely woken by a bunch of goons banging on the fiberglass, asking why we had parked there. They had chained the boat to the seawall. I kindly replied that I had signed a one year contract for that spot. They later unchained the boat and barely made an apology. That is Dinner Key Marina’s idea of a welcome, apparently.
      2. One week following my arrival, I drove up to Orlando for a few days. There, the local police came knocking on my door announcing that they had found a boat registered to my name up on a beach in Fort Pierce (about 125 miles north of Miami). Long story short, a ring of drug smugglers stole my 41 Maxum from Dinner Key Marina. I still wonder if it was not someone from the marina who tipped off my absence. It took 3 months of investigations by the USCG, DEA, and the local Sheriff’s department, and an additional 3 months of quoting repairs before I recouped the money from the insurance company (the boat was declared a total loss). Dinner Key Marina did not help out with anything and did not even express their sympathies for what had happened. I later suggested that they install a camera to monitor that pier (Pier 9) and they really could not have cared less.
      3. I returned to the marina with a new Concept 36. Why do you ask? Because none of the other 30 odd marinas in Miami had availability for commercial vessels. I should also mention that although Dinner Key Marina welcomes commercial vessels, they are not zoned for commercial use. I found that out following a visit to the City Hall trying to get my zoning permit. So technically, everyone there operating commercially is illegal. The operations lady at the Dinner Key Marina, Maria Busto, one of the most impolite, ill-intentioned, dysfunctional individuals I have ever had the displeasure to meet, had promised me following the theft of the 41 Maxum, that she would give me priority on my original slip. Sure enough, when I returned to the marina with the Concept 36, she had given it away to somebody else and left me with a slip amidst a bunch of shrimping boats. Just for the record, all of the frustrating experiences delineated above were delivered almost exclusively by her, Maria Busto. Do not waste even a second of your time with her. Talk directly to Stephen Bogner, the manager, anytime you need assistance. I found this out too late. He is of great character and although he does not have much control over what goes on in his marina, he means well.
      4. My dad fell ill in early 2016 and I was forced to move back to Orlando to tend to him. I terminated my contract with Dinner Key Marina under this premise. My dad just passed away from heart failure at the age of 55. Even knowing about these circumstances, it took Dinner Key Marina nearly 4 months to refund my deposit. E-mails went unanswered almost every time. Every time I called in, no one was around even during business hours. Simply unbelievable.
      5. Summarizing, this was the worst experience I have had with any company in my entire life. I failed to mention the countless times I had to fend off people trying to steal my stuff at the dock (and they did), obnoxious fishermen tossing garbage around and having to pick up after them, birds crapping shrimp guts all over my boat, vandalism, and daily encounters with ill-tempered employees of the marina (with a few exceptions, including Renato, an awesome security guy). Come here at your own peril. This place is a disaster. It will drain you emotionally and ruin your life!
      Alexander N Endlein

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dinner Key Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dinner Key Marina

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 11, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      BoatUS Fire Facts: Claim Files Show Six Ways Boat Fires Happen

      Boat U.S.BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and boating safety on all waters and SSECN is proud to have BoatUS as a SPONSOR!

      unnamed (5)

      This shore power pedestal inlet and cable aren’t that far away from sparking a major boat fire.

      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

      BoatUS Fire Facts: Claim Files Show Six Ways Boat Fires Happen

      ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 10, 2016 — Fire ranks number five among all boat losses according to the BoatUS Marine Insurance Program claims files. Dig a little a deeper, and those claims files also tell you the six specific areas that lead to most reported boat fires. If every boater paid attention to these six things, over a third of all fires aboard boats would be prevented. So what are the top six ways boat fires happen, and some lessons to take home?

      26% of fires are due to “Off-the-boat” sources: Over a quarter of the time, a BoatUS member’s boat burns when something else goes up in flames – the boat next to theirs, the marina, their garage, or even a neighbor’s house. It’s every boater’s responsibility to prevent fires, but when all else fails, having a good boat insurance policy is the last backstop.

      20% of fires are due to “Engine Electrical”: For boats older than 25 years, old wiring harnesses take a disproportionate chunk of the blame here. A good electrical technician can put one together for you as most boats of this age had relatively simple electrical systems.

      15% of fires are due to “Other DC Electrical”: The most common cause of battery-related fires is faulty installation of batteries – reversing the positive and negative cables or misconnecting them in series (when they should be in parallel). So take a picture. Label the cables. Use red fingernail polish to mark the positive lug. By gosh do everything to hook it up right the first time.

      12% of fires are due to “AC Electrical”: Most AC electrical fires start between the shore power pedestal and the boat’s shorepower inlet. Inspecting the shore power cord routinely (connector ends especially) and for boats older than 10 years, inspecting or replacing the boat’s shorepower inlet, could prove wise.

      9% of fires are due to “Other Engine”: This one is all about when an engine overheats due to blocked raw water intake or mangled impeller, the latter of which can also happen after experiencing a grounding or running in mucky waters. Be sure to check the engine compartment after getting underway and replace impeller every other year.

      8% of fires are due to “Batteries”: This fire fact is for the outboard folks to pay attention to. On older outboards, by far the most common cause of fires is the voltage regulator. At 10 years of age, failure rates on these important electrical components begin to climb. Once it hits 15 years old, it’s time to replace.

      Does your boat insurance cover boat fires? Get a free boat insurance check up and quote by calling the BoatUS Marine Insurance Program experts at 800-283-2883. Or get an online quote at BoatUS.com/insurance.

       

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 11, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.3638,-79.28169999

      Georgetown Restaurant Praised, Georgetown, SC, AICW Statute Mile 403


       View In Chartview

      VHF 16 & 68 Located on the Sampit River, Harborwalk Marina is only a boardwalk away from Georgetown's Historic District, great food, shopping, etc. A safe harbor from bad weather and located in calm

      As Claiborne would have said, news of good food is always welcome! So we thank Bob and Susan Crenshaw for these good words for a new Georgetown restaurant, especially as this lovely port is recovering from a devastating fire in 2013 that destroyed a number of waterfront cafes. Harborwalk Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is the northwesternmost marina on the downtown Georgetown/Sampit River waterfront.

      Cruising News
      Great new restaurant in Georgetown DiAngelo’s
      We just had a wonderful dining experience at DiAngelo’s on 929 Front street in Georgetown. We had opportunity to meet the owner, Pat DiAngelo and his wife Debbie. Also the chef, Tony came out and introduced himself. A.J. was our server.
      Wonderful home made Italian food that was fantastic. Chef Tony prepared us a sample of his yet unnamed dumpling gnocchi dish that was fantastic.
      Then to top off the nite he brought us some samples of Zeppoli, an Italian doughnut that melted in your mouth. These are wonderful people who need to be supported to make their business successful. The owner, Pat, was very gracious and appreciative of his customers. We cannot recommend a better dining experience than one we had.
      The kicker is that Chris, Dockmaster at Harbourwalk recommend we try them out. You will not be disappointed.
      Bob & Susan Crenshaw
      Carolina Girl

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Harborwalk Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Harborwalk Marina

      2 Facebook Likes, 2 Facebook Reactions

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 11, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.052,-79.50249999

      Shallow Water Reported at McClellanville Problem Stretch, AICW Statute Mile 432


       View In Chartview

      This Problem Stretch is perennially the source of shallow water reports and over the years we have received numerous complaints of skinny depths in this narrow Waterway channel, from south of the intersection with Jeremy Creek and McClellanville to Statute Mile 435. As always, SSECN recommends mid to high tide passage if you draw 5ft or more! Our thanks to Captain Bob Crenshaw for this onsite report.

      Cruising News
      Extremely low water at SM 430 between 430 and SM 432 at Jeremy Creek
      We were coming north in our 42 trawler with 4 foot draft and encounter extreme low water with ranges from 4 to 6 feet. This occurred between SM 430 and 432 at Jeremy Creek near McClellanville. We had to monitor depth finder and pull back to idle speed as we mover thru the low water.
      This occurred at two hours before low tide. It was extremely nerve racking trying to find the deep water. When we arrived at our destination at Georgetown we were told,that two boats that had planned to stay at Georgetown had called in and said they had gotten aground in this area and had to wait for tide to come back.
      We are unable to provide safe path in this area except monitor depth finder and try to search out low water.
      Carolina Girl
      42 Trawler
      Captain Bob Crenshaw

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Waterway south of McClellanville.

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

      Be the first to comment!

    • Mar 9, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 26.8271,-82.27019999

      Update on Boca Grande Causeway Swing Bridge Construction, GICW Statute Mile 34.5


       View In Chartview

      The old Boca Grande Swing Bridge (Gasparilla Island Swing Bridge) crosses the GICW at statute mile 34.5 in the northern Gasparilla Sound. A new bridge was recently constructed adjacent to the old bridge. The old bridge was removed in February and the channel was closed for week, see /154973. Our thanks to Greg Allard for this update and photo.


      Boca Grande Causeway Bridge Construction Update- March 8, 2016 – West Coast of Florida, Statute Mile 34, GIWW
      A new swing bridge has been under construction at this location. The new bridge is in operation, and the old bridge’s center span has been removed. The contractors are still on-site, working working to remove the old bridge supports. Current bridge openings are on the hour and half hour, on request.
      I telephoned the bridge operator who advised that there has been no “official high water clearance” established for the bridge, but they are “unofficially” saying that it is 22’. I suspect that estimate is based on “low steel”. Because of the nature of this swing bridge, the “high steel” (which can give extra clearance under the center of a bascule bridge) is at the outer ends of the swing bridge; that extra clearance is really not usable with a spring bridge of this type, since it is a variable distance (the bridge support is curved) and it would require passing dangerously close to the bridge’s fender system.
      When we passed through, the bridge tender had us use the opening on the north side, since there were two contractors hanging in a bucket under the south span opening (see photo).
      Adding to the adventure is that there are NO TIDAL HEIGHT BOARDS in place on the fenders, on either side of the bridge. Curiously, when we called on Channel 9 for an opening, the bridge tender asked how much clearance we needed, which was silly, since we our air-draft was certainly close, and they have established neither an official high water clearance nor have they installed tidal height boards. However, the bridge operator was very helpful and courteous, and readily agreed to open the bridge when we indicated that the clearance was too close. In addition to Channel 9, the operator can be reached by phone at 941-697 2271 (listen for the prompts, and you will be routed directly to the bridge operator.)
      Greg Allard
      M/V Meander
      unnamed (4)

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Bridge Directory Listing For Boca Grande Swing Bridge

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boca Grande Swing Bridge

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Raymond W Smith-“Fire Dog” -  March 10, 2016 - 11:14 am

        Passed through the new bridge on 2/6/2016 and boy what a difference. 22 foot clearance. The bridge tender was very helpful concerning the new bridge.
        The “Fire Dog”!!!

        Reply to Raymond
    • Mar 9, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 26.4632,-81.96549999

      Cape Coral Cruise Club Returns to Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, Matanzas Pass, Gulf Coast


       View In Chartview

      Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

      The Cape Coral Cruise Club is a group of dedicated cruisers who always provide unique reports from the marinas they visit. Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, overlooks the westerly banks of the Mantanzas Pass channel, west of marker #13.

      Cape Coral Cruise Club Returns to Pink Shell Resort Marina

      Taking advantage of SW Florida’s beautiful sunny weather and calm seas, 16 eager captains headed out the Caloosahatchee River toward Ft. Myers Beach and the Pink Shell Resort Marina February 16th for 3 days of fun, companionship and relaxation. Pink Shell is one of CCCC’s favorite destinations and this cruise is eagerly anticipated by Club members and fills quickly.
      DSC_0009
      As a result of Pink Shell’s popularity, cruise leaders Gary and Kathy Taake always have a wait list of cruisers hoping to go. The lucky ones this year included Larry & MaryAnn Habich, Phil & Lyn Quick, Hal & Dee Moss, Armond & Pam Sikes, Phil & Pat Kryger, Ken & Anne Millisor, Jeff & Joanne Ziemer, Ted & Bev Hutson, Walt & Lynn Engle, Rusty & Marlene Glover, John & Linda Furey, Len & Sharon Palmisano, Bob & Susan Ibanez, Joe & Kelli Miller,and Paul & Stephanie Carrico.
      IMG_1567
      Tuesday evening began with docktails at 4:30 followed by one of Gary’s famous entrees – grilled pork loins. The remainder of the meal was rounded out by potluck contributions provided by fabulous first mates. What a feast! Everyone outdid themselves in the food department and no one went away hungry. Too stuffed to do much bar hopping down the Beach, many were content to take on a hot game or two of cards. For some reason, this group is very competitive when it comes to table games involving quarters, nickels and dimes.
      As is customary the cruise leaders provided a hot breakfast in a room provided to the Club by Pink Shell both Wednesday and Thursday morning for anyone ready to get moving by 9:00. The days were free to lounge by the several pools, ride the Beach Trolley, or walk to Times Square for lunch. Rumor has it that one establishment in the Times Square area has the coldest beer on the Beach!
      IMG_2458
      Several members joined us by land yacht for docktails Wednesday evening. Kathy finalized reservations for the now-expanded group of 38 for dinner at Mantanzas on the Bay. Mantanzas never disappoints and every one enjoyed a wonderful meal. The highlight of the evening was a surprise birthday cake to honor Ted Hutson’s 85th birthday!
      After another day of leisure, Thursday evening found the group scattered to various locations for dinner, followed by a final get together back at the marina for conversation and several hands of cards. This crowd is really competitive when it comes to card games. Plans were made for the next morning’s departures and everyone said a fond farewell. Another excellent Pink Shell Cruise gets logged into CCCC member’s memories.

      The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on Facebook.

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Bruce Longman -  March 9, 2016 - 8:43 pm

        Looks like an awesome destination in S W Florida

        Reply to Bruce
    • Mar 9, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission Requests Your Assistance

      This request is aimed at the beach combers and marine wildlife lovers among us, providing you can find a place to anchor after dark. Contact information is in the link below.

      fwc

      Be a citizen-scientist: Help FWC monitor horseshoe crabs spawning on beaches
      horseshoecrabs

      Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission sent this bulletin at 03/08/2016 01:00 PM EST
      For immediate release: March 8, 2016
      Media contact: Frank McCloy, 727-502-4789

      A ritual dating back millions of years takes place again this spring on Florida beaches. Spring marks horseshoe crabs’ mating season, and biologists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) want the public’s help identifying spawning sites.
      Beachgoers will likely have the best luck spotting mating horseshoe crabs around high tide, just before, during or after a new or full moon. The conditions around the new moon this Wednesday, March 9, and the full moon on March 23 will create ideal opportunities to view the spawning behavior of horseshoe crabs.

      CLICK HERE to view photos and read the entire article.

      Be the first to comment!


    Social Media Auto Publish Powered By : XYZScripts.com