CRUISERS NET
Cruisers Helping Cruisers
Comprehensive cruising resource for the Intracoastal Waterways
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
FREE to use due to the generosity of our sponsors - please patronize them
FOCUS ON Georgetown, SC, AICW Statute Mile 403
The County Chamber of Commerce for Georgetown County, South Carolina and Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net are delighted to share the rich history of this area’s earliest settlements in and around Winyah Bay and along the several rivers that converge near Georgetown. The preserved old southern rice and indigo plantations still provide glimpses into our country’s earliest commercial, agricultural and aqua-cultural endeavors. Providing easy access to this “stroll-worthy community” for the cruising community is the recently completely renovated Harborwalk Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS NET SPONSOR. Putting Georgetown, SC on your list of fun ports of call is a must.
Looking for a great place to take a brief respite from the ICW? Then take a turn at marker 40 and head up the Sampit River to Historic Downtown Georgetown.
Georgetown Harbor – Sampit River
Dockage is available at several marinas, and there are day docks on the City’s Harborwalk. The third oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown has been welcoming visitors to their harbor for almost 300 years.
Front Street Shopping
Once you arrive in Georgetown and find a dock or anchorage, it’s time to start exploring the area. Within easy walking distance (just a few blocks) there are more than 14 restaurants, five museums and an abundance of shops. The locals are friendly and always glad to welcome visitors.
Stewart Parker House – facing the river
Start your exploration at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center, next to Harborwalk Marina. There you will get free information including maps of the area, local attractions and history. Make time to visit all our museums – each highlights a different aspect of the rich history of the area.
Keith House B&B on Front Street
The Rice Museum highlights the history of rice production in the area. Did you know Georgetown County was the largest producer of rice in North American in the early 1800’s? You will also have the opportunity to see the remains of the oldest wooden vessel known to have been built in North America.
The South Carolina Maritime Museum on the Harborwalk celebrates the maritime history of the state and port of Georgetown. Exhibits include historic photographs, documents, artifacts, and interactive displays. The centerpiece of the museum is the 5th order Fresnel lens that was the heart of the North Island Lighthouse for over 100 years. The Museum is also the home of the annual Georgetown Wooden Boat Show, which has been named a Top 20 Event in the Southeast and won the Bundy award as one of the best events in the state.
Fresnel Lens from North Island Lighthouse
Kids at Maritime Museum
Georgetown County Museum features artifacts from all over the county, including a handwritten letter from General Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox. The Gullah Museum celebrates the Gullah culture of the western African people that were brought to our shores against their wills in the 1700 and 1800’s, and forged a shared culture that shaped the landscape, food and language of the Lowcountry.
Kaminsky House Museum
The Kaminski House Museum, dating from 1765, features an extraordinary collection of European and American antiques, along with a glimpse into the history of Georgetown.
Georgetown’s National Register Historic District along the harbor is home to over 63 structures over 200 years old. You can pick up a historic walking map for a do-it-yourself tour or jump on the Swamp Fox tour trolley and enjoy an hour long narrated excursion through the oak-lined streets. You’ll be regaled with almost 300 years of history and may even hear a ghost story or two. Love ghost stories? Ask at the Visitors Center about one of our local lantern-led evening ghost tours!
Make sure you plan to spend several days in our harbor. You will need that much time to experience all the sites and sample all the amazing restaurants within a few steps of the water. Many Thursday evenings you can also enjoy free concerts in Francis Marion Park, right on the Harborwalk. One thing we can guarantee, you’ll leave a visit to Georgetown having made new friends and planning your return trip.
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
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Praise for Titusville Municipal Marina’s WiFi, AICW Statute Mile 879
Located south-southeast of AICW marker #27, Titusville Municipal Marina is one of the best medium-sized municipal marinas on the Eastern Florida coastline. And now, as praised below by Robert Sherer, has a super WiFi system. It is also only a short driving distance from Dixie Cross Roads Seafood Restaurant, one of the best in the south!
This marina had WiFi professionally installed and I no longer need a WiFi amp. I can stream Netflix with no stuttering. Tested speed runs between 6 and 10 Mbps. This is the only marina I’ve been in along the ICW that I can stream Netfix in the evening. The staff is friendly and competent, the docks are super sturdy, laundry is only $1/load, there’s a nearby dog park and downtown is a short walk away. At $1.44/ft (fourth day free) or $10/month, it’s a great value.
Robert ShererClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Titusville Municipal Marina
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Life Jackets: Wear Them!
April 8, 2016
FWC PSA Availability
“Wear It Florida!” – Life jackets save lives
Who: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Why: As boating season in Florida gets underway, boaters can choose to have fun and stay safe on Florida’s waters. And the FWC can help.
Background: As the boating capital of the world, Florida leads the nation with nearly 1 million registered vessels across the state and is known as the prime boating spot for residents and visitors. The FWC wants everyone to enjoy boating opportunities safely. It conducts boating safety education campaigns to support this goal by encouraging boaters to wear a life jacket, 360-degree operator awareness and sober boating. FWC officers assist and educate vessel operators year-round.
Resource: Life jacket :60 Broadcast Version: https://vimeo.com/127883864
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More Good Words for Portside Marina, Morehead City, NC, AICW Statute Mile 205
When entering the Morehead City waterfront from the “Turning Basin,” Portside Marina is the first facility that will come abeam to the north.
These folks are very helpful, since we had a weather layover. Rate them highly and will return.
DustyClick Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Portside Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Portside Marina
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BoatUS News: New Owners Take the Helm at TowBoatUS Port Canaveral
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
(L to R) Capt. Steven Holm, Kasee Holm, Capt. Sean Steinberg and four-legged crewmate Sunny.
New Owners Take the Helm at TowBoatUS Port Canaveral
PORT CANAVERAL, Fla., April 7, 2016 – Some 20-plus years ago, Captains Sean Steinberg and Steven Holm’s passion for boating began when they met as 10-year-olds in a community sailing program in Cape Coral, Florida. They sailed extensively through high school and college and went on to professional careers on the water. In January they became owners, along with Steven’s wife, Kasee, TowBoatUS Port Canaveral, a 24-hour on-water towing and assistance service for recreational boaters.
“This is my dream job,” said Steinberg, who spent three years working as a captain for TowBoatUS Cape Coral on Florida’s west coast and 10 years serving in the US Coast Guard Reserve. “I love boating and I love helping other boaters. I did 853 tows and boater assists when I was at Cape Coral,” he recalled. Much like a reliable auto club for boaters, TowBoatUS offers an Unlimited Saltwater towing membership for boaters and anglers for just $149 a year that includes BoatUS membership. Without a towing plan, boaters face costs that average over $700 per incident nationally.
When Steinberg learned that the former owner of TowBoatUS Port Canaveral wanted to sell the business, he jumped at the chance to buy it, along with his friends, the Holms. Steinberg, who has held a USCG license for many years, runs the day-to-day on-the-water operations. Kasee Holm is in charge of administration and advertising, and Steven Holm, a graduate of the US Merchant Marine Academy with a USCG unlimited master license, assists on the towboats when he is available. He works full time as captain aboard a 1,200-passenger ship in Port Canaveral and is actively drilling as Lieutenant in the US Navy Reserve Strategic Sealift Readiness Group.
Steinberg said he has been busy at TowBoatUS Port Canaveral from day one – New Year’s Day – assisting boaters who have lost steering, had an engine breakdown or a soft grounding. “The usual stuff,” he said. “The best thing is our fast response time. This is my full-time job, so I am ready to assist 24/7.” He lives aboard his 28-foot sailboat with his seven-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Sunny, at Harbortown Marina on Merritt Island just two docks away from one of the company’s two assist boats. “That means I can be underway in five to ten minutes,” he said. “Sunny always comes along. That dog has more sea time than most captains.”
The waters around Port Canaveral are crowded with oil tankers, freighters, fishing vessels, dinner boats, large cruise ships and all kinds of recreational watercraft, but everyone gets along, Steinberg said. Their service area includes the Indian and Banana Rivers, the Intracoastal Waterway, Port Canaveral Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean up to 25 miles.
TowBoatUS Port Canaveral operates two boats, one for the inland waters and the other for the ocean, which are separated by a lock. “We have two bodies of water, so we need two boats. The locks are not always open, and they take time to pass,” Steinberg said.
The boats, which are painted bright red with the TowBoatUS name and buoy logo emblazoned in white letters on the hull, are a 23-foot Sea Craft with twin 150-horespower outboards kept off the barge canal in Merritt Island, and a 28-foot Topaz with twin diesels based at the port. Both are fully rigged for towing and salvage, with powerful pumps, battery jump packs, dive gear and extra fuel.
TowBoatUS Port Canaveral can be reached by calling Steinberg at 321-783-5600 for new membership and renewals, as well as towing dispatch, local knowledge or even the marine weather forecast. The company also stands by for calls on VHF channel 16 or can be reached through the BoatUS toll-free 24/7 Dispatch Center at 800-391-4869 and via smartphone with the free BoatUS Towing App. More information can be found at BoatUS.com/towing or by calling 800-888-4869.
About TowBoatUS:
Celebrating 50 years in 2016, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation’s leading advocate, services and safety group for recreational boaters. We provide our over half-million members with a wide array of helpful services, including 24-hour on water towing that gets you safely home when your boat won’t, will bring you fuel if you run out, jumpstart your dead battery, or provide a gentle pull after you’ve run aground. The TowBoatUS towing fleet is North America’s largest network of towing ports with over 300 locations and over 600 towing assistance vessels, responding to over 70,000 requests for assistance each year. For more information go to BoatUS.com/towing.Be the first to comment!
CCCC Visits South Seas Island Resort & Marina, near GICW Statute Mile 15
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is a group of dedicated cruisers who always provide unique reports from the marinas they visit. See /138063 for a description of the channel into South Seas Marina.
Cape Coral Cruise Club returns to South Seas Island Resort & Marina
by Mike Stewart
Member boats docked at South Seas Marina
Member boats docked at South Seas Marina
South Seas Island Resort was the place to be for fun loving CCCC cruisers March 15, 16 17. Fog early on Tuesday, the 15th, did not deter 11 boat skippers from sailing up the sound and arriving safely at the Resort marina to be assisted by the professional dock crew with lines, power and TV cables. (Two boats did not make the run due to last minute mechanical difficulties.) Phil and Lyn Quick, cruise leaders, had matters in hand and the whole evolution went off without a hitch.
Most people, except for our hard core fishermen, either enjoyed the pool or walks on the beach. There was a get together for “docktails” at 5pm, after which we all boarded the trolley for a run to Doc Fords for dinner. After enjoying the wide variety of seafood and land offerings, accompanied by wines and beers of choice, the group rode the trolley back to the marina. Some boaters even had room left for ice cream!Wednesday morning in the Chart Room our cruise leaders served a sumptuous breakfast of eggs, sausage, fruit, sweet muffins, muffins…..and more! Those ladies assisting by providing the fruit for the menu saw to it that nobody could claim that the selection was sparse. Most of us chose to walk the beaches for a couple of hours before again lounging at the pool. For lunch, cruisers were on their own to eat on board their boat or at an on-site restaurant. Several of us took the trolley to do some shopping off property. There is a great Mexican restaurant within easy walking distance of the resort, down near the Bubble Room. Two more boats arrived to bring our party to 13.
Dinner was prepared by our leaders and their assistants and served in the Chart Room. You just cannot beat barbecued pork loin with baked potatoes and green beans! After dinner the Second Annual “Not so Newlywed Game” entertained everyone. Apparently, only Jon and Elise “know” each other very well, the rest of us really struggled with the questions. And the jury is still out on our Commodore and his karaoke machine that “makes anyone sound like a professional”. I understand that there is evidence otherwise on Facebook!
Thursday, St. Patrick’s Day, and with everyone wearing green, started with a continental breakfast in the Chart Room. Then it was “on your own” until 4:30 pm cocktails. After happy hour, everyone spread to the winds to find a place to have dinner, most of us selecting the Harbourside Bar and Grill a fine restaurant at the marina. At about 7 pm we reconvened at the Chart Room for a “99” tournament, with tokens supplied by the cruise leaders. Mike and Brenda got no good cards at all and were gone early. Leave it to Dee and “newbie” Joanne to wipe out all the others and win the jackpot at their respective table. Way to go ladies!
Friday dawned spectacularly and the hardy cruise group said a fond “farewell” to South Seas Island Resort and safely proceeded home.
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 Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of South Seas Island Resort Marina
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UPDATE: FWC Responds to Fish Kill in Indian River Lagoon
Shocking images of Florida’s Indian River Lagoon show hundreds of thousands of dead, rotting fish floating in polluted water as far as the eye can see.The lagoon system includes the Indian River, Mosquito and Banana river lagoons that make up the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway along eastern Florida. It’s home to more than 3,000 species of plants and animals, and is the most biodiverse lagoon ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere, according to International Business Times.
CLICK HERE for the full story from OpposingViews.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2016
CONTACT: FWC Community Relations Office, 850-488-4676, FWCNews@MyFWC.com
DAILY UPDATE ON THE NORTHERN INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is providing status updates each weekday to keep people informed on the state’s cooperative efforts in response to a brown tide event in the northern Indian River Lagoon/Banana River. These updates will help residents stay informed of the conditions in the lagoon, as well as the latest actions by the State of Florida.
Last week, agency leadership from FWC, Department of Environmental Protection, St. Johns River Water Management District and Department of Health toured the Banana River near Cocoa Beach down to Patrick Air Force Base. They were joined by Speaker Steve Crisafulli and Senator Thad Altman. In addition, they met with Brigadier General Wayne R. Monteith and other partners at the base. They observed the brown tide event and discussed current status with experts and health officials as well as witnessed local, county, SJRWMD, FWC and DEP crews assisting with cleanup led by Brevard County related to fish mortality.
Photos of the tour are available here: https://flic.kr/s/
aHsku4iYee Current Status and Most Recent Information
- There are no new reports of fish mortality via the fish kill hotline (1-800-636-0511) as of April 5.
- Fourteen water samples were collected April 6 from northern Indian River, Middle Banana River, Thousand Islands at Ramp road, Eau Gallie Causeway, Melbourne Causeway, W. Cocoa Beach Causeway and Sykes Creek (80 total samples). Results are expected the end of the week.
- DEP Deputy Secretary Drew Bartlett and SJRWMD Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle visited Brevard County April 6 to discuss the current state of the Indian River Lagoon. They heard from local representatives about the issue and shared with those individuals what each agency is doing to help with improvements.
Northern Indian River Lagoon Brown Tide Event
- Water from Lake Okeechobee does not reach Brevard County through the Indian River Lagoon; therefore, there is no evidence the brown tide event is related to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ freshwater discharges from Lake Okeechobee.
- FWC continues to work closely with the DEP, SJRWMD, DOH and other state, regional and local agencies to assess and respond to the large brown algal bloom in the Indian River and Banana River lagoons, including monitoring environmental conditions.
- While brown algae is non-toxic to humans, it can reduce the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, impacting fish and other wildlife.
- Response efforts:
- FWC continues to take and analyze water samples to monitor conditions associated with the fish mortality event; primarily low dissolved oxygen levels.
- DEP and SJRWMD deployed staff and boats to assist Brevard County with their local recovery and clean-up efforts.
- Local Department of Health offices continue to monitor for human health impacts and provide assurances regarding public safety.
- SJRWMD continues to regularly collect water quality monitoring samples to track movement and trends in the bloom activity and to monitor for changes in the algal species type. In addition to on-the-ground response and monitoring efforts, state and local agencies also continue to focus on longer-term water quality restoration efforts for Indian River Lagoon.
- The SJRWMD and partners continue to support oyster reef restoration efforts in northern Mosquito Lagoon.
- On March 30, the SJRWMD hosted a cost-share workshop in Palm Bay encouraging communities to apply for dollars for projects benefiting the Indian River Lagoon. More information on the cost-share program is available at http://www.sjrwmd.com/funding/
FY2016-2017/ - Governor Rick Scott’s office distributed a press release on Friday, March 25th expressing strong support for the state, regional and local agencies assessing and responding to the algal bloom.
FWC Response
- FWC is taking weekly water samples from 8 to 10 sites in the Indian River Lagoon.
- The highest concentrations of brown tide were observed in samples taken on March 16 from Riverdale Drive and from March 25 at the Saint John Boat ramp in the northern Indian River Lagoon.
- Samples have been provided by FWC’s Fisheries-Independent Monitoring staff and volunteers.
- The FWC has received nearly 400 calls and online reports allowing them to document the size and duration of this extensive event, coordinate a response and disseminate information about the cause of the fish kill.
- Calls can include information requests, fish kill clean-up, and reports of fish mortality and disease.
- Report a fish kill, diseased fish or fish with other abnormalities to 1-800-636-0511.
- Report sick or injured wildlife at 888-404-3922 or Tip@MyFWC.com
Other response efforts include
- The SJRWMD routinely monitors water quality in the Indian River Lagoon and its tributaries, collecting and managing data from 58 sites monthly to provide reliable data about current water quality conditions.
- To monitor specifically for algae species, the SJRWMD partners with FWC and the University of Florida to sample and analyze five sites monthly and provides additional event-driven support when algal blooms are reported.
- In addition, the district maintains five stations that provide continuous water quality monitoring, sending the information electronically to the agency’s headquarters.
- In addition to on-the-ground response and monitoring efforts, state and local agencies are also focusing on longer-term water quality restoration efforts for the Indian River Lagoon. These restoration projects and management strategies are essential to reducing nitrogen and phosphorous levels, which will help to decrease the intensity and duration of algal bloom events.
- To address elevated levels of nutrients in the lagoon, in 2013, DEP adopted three basin management action plans (BMAPs) to implement the projects and activities necessary to bring the lagoon back to health.
- In addition, DEP has adopted the St. Lucie BMAP, which will also help the Southern Indian River Lagoon.
- To date, the stakeholders have achieved all obligations outlined in the BMAPs.
Restoration Funding
- Including the recently signed Florida First budget, the state will have invested nearly $80 million dollars in projects in Brevard County to restore the lagoon during the past, current and upcoming fiscal years.
- For the upcoming fiscal year, nearly $26 million from the Florida First budget will be invested in 10 water quality improvement projects.
- This includes $21.5 million in a muck dredging project – a key component of long-term lagoon restoration.
- This includes funding in three key areas to lagoon restoration:
- Wastewater: $2,872,500
- Dredging: $61,500,000
- Load Reduction (storm water): $14,221,788
- Additional projects may be funded through DEP’s and SJRWMD’s budgets; for example, both DEP and SJRWMD are contributing partners to the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program.
- In addition, DEP encourages local governments and communities to reach out to their Division of Water Restoration Assistance, which provides grants and loans for water quality and quantity projects.
- Additional cost-share funding and other restoration projects are also funded by the SJRWMD.
- Local communities are also encouraged to engage with the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (NEP), a unique local, state and regional partnership to protect the lagoon.
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Bahamas Chatter: “Two businesses closed on Man-O-War Cay” 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: “Two businesses closed on Man-O-War Cay” plus 1 more
Two businesses closed on Man-O-War Cay
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 06:30 AM PDT
Albury’s Harbour Grocery and Lola Sawyer’s Home Bakery have closed on Man-O-War Cay, Abaco. This leaves Man-O-War Grocery as the only grocery store on Man-O-War Cay now.New fuel and dockage prices for April
Posted: 04 Apr 2016 02:11 PM PDT
Bad news for cruisers looking for better dockage deals as thirteen marinas raised their dockage prices since last month. Albany Marina on New Providence reported a daily resort service charge of $350 plus $6 a foot dockage making it the most expensive marina in the Bahamas and maybe the world.Diesel prices were down at a number of marinas while gasoline prices were generally up. The new monthly Explorer Fuel and Dockage survey is posted on our website www.explorercharts.com. Only a few marinas couldn’t be contacted this month. They are highlighted in red on the survey so that you will know the prices are not necessarily current.
As always, we appreciate the individual reports you send us to keep this survey updated. Send an email to monty@explorercharts.com for any new prices you find until the next survey.
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Shared Photo: Sunset on Albemarle Sound
Sunset on Albemarle Sound by: Scott Evers
Comments from Cruisers (3)
- Reply to Wallace
Scott: You have my vote for the best sunset shot ever, good eye
- Reply to John
Wow! Beautiful shot!!!
- Reply to Greg
Scott – Spectacular photo!
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BoatUS Foundation Awarded $150,000+ to Address Marine Debris Challenges
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
Marine debris is an issue all recreational boaters face.
BoatUS Foundation Awarded $150,000+ to Address Marine Debris Challenges
Matching funds, In-kind Services Add to Grant funding from the
NOAA Marine Debris Program and National Fish and Wildlife FoundationANNAPOLIS, MD, April 4, 2016 – Boaters know the dangers that marine debris can pose, both to their own vessel and the environment. Long known for its successful national fishing line recycling program, the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water will be tackling the challenging problem of waterborne junk in three projects this spring that will help remove large debris, a sunken fishing boat, and will explore the issue of boats running afoul of commercial fishing gear.
A $51,000 grant to remove large debris comes from the NOAA Marine Debris Program to partner with the local on water towing and assistance fleets of TowBoatUS South Shore, OH, and TowBoatUS Ocean City, MD, as well as local monitoring agencies – all whom will be matching funds through in-kind services. With these service donations as well as a BoatUS Foundation contribution, the donated in-kind services will surpass $52,000, doubling the original NOAA grant amount.
Reno Beach, Ohio:
Offshore of Reno Beach, OH, in Western Lake Erie, TowBoatUS South Shore will remove a sunken 35-foot steel commercial fishing boat with a net attached. The wreck is located near sensitive habitat, a state park, and two National Wildlife Refuges.
Ocean City, Maryland:
In the Atlantic, three to seven miles offshore of Ocean City, MD, TowBoatUS Ocean City will remove two commercial fishing nets that are entangled on an artificial reef.
In both locations the nets are still actively fishing and trapping aquatic life.
“Our TowBoatUS towing captains identified these problem areas and brought them to our attention,” said BoatUS Foundation Vice President Susan Shingledecker. “They are experts in salvage and are eager to lend their expertise.” Shingledecker added that a local monitoring agency will study the environmental impacts of the removal.
Preventing Entanglements:
With a $103,000 grant from the Fishing for Energy program, the BoatUS Foundation will study and develop educational tools to reduce interactions between recreational boats and fixed commercial fishing gear. Administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and funded by the NOAA Marine Debris Program, the Fishing for Energy grant aims to prevent and reduce the impacts of derelict fishing gear in the marine environment.
Since 2008, Fishing for Energy has been a public-private partnership between NOAA Marine Debris Program, energy-from-waste facility operator Covanta, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), and metals recycler Schnitzer Steel Industries. This grant is being matched by a $140,000 donation of services by the BoatUS Foundation.
“Anyone who spends a lot of time boating in areas with a lot of crab or lobster trap floats knows it can be a challenge navigating without accidentally catching a pot line on your propeller,” said Shingledecker. “We’ll be conducting focus groups in multiple regions to learn more about this interaction and look for ways to message about preventing entanglements and what to do if you catch a pot when boating. Most boaters don’t realize that cut pots sink to the bottom and continue actively fishing for up to ten years. This is seafood that never makes it to your dinner plate or supports a fisherman’s income. We want to learn more about this challenge and see how we can make a difference.”
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.
About the NOAA Marine Debris Program:
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program (MDP) leads national efforts to research, prevent, and reduce the impacts of marine debris. Its staff, which is positioned across the country, supports marine debris projects in partnership with state and local agencies, tribes, non-governmental organizations, academia, and industry. The program also spearheads national research efforts and works to change behavior in the public through outreach and education initiatives.
About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation:
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) protects and restores our nation’s wildlife and habitats. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF directs public conservation dollars to the most pressing environmental needs and matches those investments with private contributions. NFWF works with government, nonprofit and corporate partners to find solutions for the most intractable conservation challenges. Over the last three decades, NFWF has funded more than 4,000 organizations and committed more than $2.9 billion to conservation projects. Learn more at www.nfwf.org.
CLICK HERE for Trash Talk video.
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Happy Hour on the Megadock, Charleston City Marina, AICW Statute Mile 469
Charleston City Marina is welcoming its transient guests with a free Happy Hour on the Megadock Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings with live music on Thursdays beginning in May. Charleston City Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is located along the Ashley River’s northeastern banks, northeast of marker #5.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston City Marina
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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.Be the first to comment!
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?Comments from Cruisers (2)
- Reply to Nanci
Just did the north passage last week. 3 boats, 5.5 and 6 ft. Follow way points on Explorer charts, no problem.
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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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Report from Channel Key Pass, Florida Keys Inside Route, Statute Mile 1179.5
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.
GeorgeClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Channel Key Pass
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More Good Words for Fort Myers Yacht Basin, Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway Statute Mile 135
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-LucasClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ft Myers Yacht Basin
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Leif
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 CrewLeif Lustig, Dockmaster
City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin
http://Www.cityftmyers.com/381/yacht-basin
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Advice on Hell Gate Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602
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 GateClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem StretchComments from Cruisers (2)
- Reply to Nelms
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 James
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.
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A Small Open Vessel and Boynton Inlet, near AICW Statute Mile 1034
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 BlodgettClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boynton Inlet
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A Good Visit to Flamingo Marina, Everglades National Park, Flamingo, West Florida
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 TuckClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Flamingo Marina
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Istvan
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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