Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Jun 22, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 31.9796,-81.05619999
Good Visit to Isle of Hope Marina, Savannah, GA, AICW Statute Mile 590

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A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, Isle of Hope Marina lies along the northwestern shores of the Waterway in the body of a hairpin turn northwest of AICW marker #46A.
Isle of Hope Marina, Savannah, Georgia
Isle of Hope is a great place to stop. It’s not real close to Savannah but they do offer loaner cars. The cars are loaned out for 2 hours, if more time is needed you can call the Marina and if no one is looking to borrow the car they will let you have it longer.
Since we wanted to go to Tybee Island and do so some shopping, taking more than just 2 hour, we called Enterprise rent a car, this was a Saturday morning, They said they would be there by noon. We were stood up. Tried to call them back after waiting for an hour but they close at noon on Saturday. The Tybee Island trip was shot. Monday we called Enterprise rent a car, spoke to a manager, they apologized and set up another delivery. Again we cooled our heels for 45min. The gal in the marina told us to take one of the cars and not to worry about the time. Saved our day, we got to see Savannah, do the carriage rides and all. That evening upon our return we talked to the marina and they confirmed that again Enterprise was a no show. I will no longer trust Enterprise to pick you up.
Close to Isle of Hope is the Wormsloe plantation. A good relaxing, walking, sightseeing, history and nature sight. We loved it. We also enjoyed the restaurants in the area.
All in all we did enjoy our stay, the crew at Isle of Hope are great, helpful in every way.
Phil and Sandy Herl

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Jun 22, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 33.3638,-79.28169999
A Visit to Harborwalk Marina, Georgetown, SC, AICW Statute Mile 403

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Harborwalk Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! is the northwesternmost marina on the downtown Georgetown/Sampit River waterfront. Check out their shiny new, first-rate, shower and laundry building! Skipper Herl’s report isn’t dated, but it seems to coincide with the current heatwave we are enduring in SC.

Harborwalk Marina
Just a short run, 4 hr, north of Lelands [McClellanville] into Georgetown to Harborwalk Marina. Cris met us at the dock. Cris and my crew prevented me from crashing and burning at the dock. We arrived early so were able to take a walk down town, It is hot (100deg.) so the walk was short but very interesting. Visited the museum and some stores, they all had AC.
The dock was nice, it was just too hot to do anything.
Phil and Sandy Herl
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Harborwalk Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Linda Allen - June 26, 2015 - 4:32 pm

We spent a month at this marina just after it was updated in 2009. The staff and the facilities were excellent. The location is perfect for strolling downtown or through the back streets with the lovely houses.
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John Wampler - June 26, 2015 - 2:13 pm

As a delivery captain with over 200 Florida to New York transits under my keel, when weather is more than marginal, I try to make Georgetown a stop. Cris, the new dockmaster, took over for my old friend Dave and the service has not suffered one bit.
I like Thomas Cafe for an early morning bite before I get underway and the River Room can hold it’s own with the finest of restaurants.
Swamp Players has live theater when in production.
Enjoy a stop here.
yachtaide.com
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Jun 22, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 36.7238,-76.24789999
FOCUS ON Atlantic Yacht Basin, Great Bridge, VA, AICW Statute Mile 12

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One of our many loyal sponsors, Atlantic Yacht Basin is located just south of the Great Bridge lock and bridge at Mile Marker 12. AYB’s continuing and longtime support of SSECN helps keep our site free to all users. This background material about their business and detailed information about their products and services is provided so that you our reader will be fully and better informed. Our thanks to Atlantic Yacht Basin for their participation with and sponsorship of “The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net.”
ATLANTIC YACHT BASIN
HISTORY AND REPUTATION DEFINE THIS ICONIC FACILITY
You can’t buy it, you can only build it: history and reputation. Atlantic Yacht Basin has been serving boaters, at the same location, for nearly 80 years. And over nearly eight decades, AYB has earned the reputation as a premier boat repair and storage facility on the eastern seaboard.
In order to understand who we are today, it helps to understand AYB’s history.
We are a third generation family owned business. Our founder, D. Dunwoody Atkinson founded AYB in 1936. The familiar bascule bridge, Great Bridge Bridge, over Mile 12 of the ICW—within walking distance to AYB– wasn’t built yet.
While convenience for boaters was an immediate advantage, it is the professional approach to boaters’ needs and attention to detail that is the foundation of AYB’s reputation.
Today, we are known as a facility that has the experience and expertise to carry out all facets of boat maintenance and repairs, and strategically located on the fresh water side (non-tidal) of the Great Bridge Locks.
We realize that your boat is a major investment. We believe that protecting your investment is as important as maintaining it. That’s why we committed to creating the largest undercover, freshwater boat storage facility on the eastern seaboard.
Today we offer 158,000 square feet of undercover storage. The vessels undercover here range from classic wood boats to contemporary, ocean going yachts. We have the height, width and depth to protect virtually any boat. In addition we are staffed 24/7, 365 days a year. There is always a Dockmaster on duty and AYB is a secure yard.
Not only have we been in business at the same location for nearly 80 years, we have professionals who have been taking care of all facets of repairs and maintenance for decades. Some of our professionals have built that experience at AYB, others have come on board, bringing with them their own reputation of excellence.
The fact is, no matter what brings boat owners to AYB, our professional staff has seen it before and has the ability, skills and work ethic that exceeds expectations.
Our mechanics, carpenters, paint and varnish crew, fiberglass team, re-fit specialists, detailing experts and supervisory staff are all committed to perfection. It seems to be in our DNA.
And, as an extra level of commitment to excellence, the work is monitored by a project manager.
We understand that when you are traveling the ICW, convenience is one of the factors that determines your stopping points.
AYB isn’t just close to the Waterway. We are ON the waterway. When you get to Mile 12 and Great Bridge, you are at the docks of AYB. You immediately notice our organized, clean and busy yard. You can’t miss our 1,700 linear feet of outdoor dockage space and fueling dock. And even if you just stop for fuel, you can take a breather, and relax in one of our comfortable Adirondack chairs, strategically located right at our docks. It’s a great spot to watch the ICW traffic going by, see some of the work being done at AYB or talk to other cruisers.
And if your plans call for an extended stay here, you will benefit from our convenient location that extends beyond the ICW.
We are within walking distance to a full service grocery store, many restaurants, a hospital is nearby, rental car facilities, hardware stores, banks, propane fill facility, you can catch up on your laundry at AYB, there is a wonderful park and walking path directly on the opposite side of the ICW from AYB, and much more.
If you need to catch a flight, Norfolk International Airport is a 20-minute ride from us.
We have a fully stocked marine store. It is staffed by professionals who not only have years of experience…they are boaters too. If we need to order parts for you, we know what you are looking for, we know where to find it, and we can often expedite the order if necessary.
If your boat repair or refit needs extend beyond what we offer…remember…we are in the heart of the largest maritime community in the world with the U.S. Navy in our back yard and a very active and progressive port supporting a wide range of industries. AYB has the support of qualified subcontractors from the local region that know boats. No matter what your needs for repair, refit or manufacture of a specialty part, we know who to trust to meet the specs and exceed your expectations.
We are understandably proud of our work and our reputation. We are honored to have earned the trust of boat owners like you. Telling you about us is one thing—seeing who we are, what we do, and hearing from our clients is another.
We invite you to click on our Video Archive section of our website. We recently initiated this aspect of our proof of performance. You will find a growing number of videos that show you what we do, what we offer, and see and hear why we are a trusted boat repair, refit and storage facility on the ICW.
Atlantic Yacht Basin has earned the trust of literally thousands of boat owners over the years. We would be honored to earn your trust too.
Please give us a call toll-free at (800) 992-2489 or local at (757) 482-2141 or drop us a line at info@atlanticyachtbasin.com to get a free quote or to find out more about our comprehensive range of marine services.
If you are outside of the area, we can also help arrange transport to our facility or recommend a licensed captain to bring the boat in for you via the Waterway.
Also, please check us out at www.atlanticyachtbasin.com, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for interesting updates, tips, and specials going on at the Yard.
Enjoy the rest of your Spring and looking forward to seeing you soon!
Your Friends at AYB
Click Here To View the VA to NC Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Atlantic Yacht Basin
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Jun 19, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9291,-82.06339999
Fishermen’s Village Awarded TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Punta Gorda, FL

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Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, on Western Florida’s Charlotte Harbor/Peace River is more than worthy of this award! Whether you are moored in Punta Gorda’s mooring field or berthed at Fishermen’s Village Marina, also A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, this is the place to be!
FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE AND FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE RESORT AWARDED 2015 TRIPADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE
Recognized as a Top Performing Shopping and Vacation Destination as Reviewed by Travelers on the World’s Largest Travel Site
Punta Gorda, FL , June 19, 2015’“ Fishermen’s Village Mall and Resort today announced that it has received a TripAdvisorÂ® Certificate of Excellence award. Now in its fifth year, the award celebrates excellence in hospitality and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve great traveler reviews on TripAdvisor. Certificate of Excellence winners include accommodations, eateries and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a superior customer experience.
When selecting Certificate of Excellence winners, TripAdvisor uses a proprietary algorithm to determine the honorees that takes into account the quality, quantity and recency of reviews and opinions submitted by travelers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period as well as business’s tenure and ranking on the Popularity Index on the site. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.
`Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the entire team at Fishermen’s Village and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review on TripAdvisor,’ said Kathy Burnam, Marketing/Events Manager at Fishermen’s Village. `There is no greater seal of approval than being recognized by one’s customers. With the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, the accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.’
“TripAdvisor is pleased to honor exceptional hospitality businesses that have received consistent praise and recognition by travelers on the site,’ said Marc Charron President, TripAdvisor for Business. `By putting a spotlight on businesses that are focused on delivering great service to customers, TripAdvisor not only helps drive increasing hospitality standards around the world, it also gives businesses both large and small the ability to shine and stand out from the competition.’
Fishermen’s Village Mall, Resort and Marina is located on pristine Charlotte Harbor in Punta Gorda Florida. A two level complex, the lower level features independently owned shops, boutiques and waterfront restaurants, water recreation, military heritage museum, live entertainment and special events. The second level sports vacation villas, available for daily/weekly rental. For more information, visit www.fishville.com or call 1 800 639-0020.
Kathy Burnam
Marketing/Events Manager
Fishermen’s Village
kathyb@fishville.com
READER’S CHOICE AWARDS FAVORITE SHOPPING DESTINATION!
1200 West Retta Esplanade #57A
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
P 941 575-3007
M 941 258-1327
F 941 637-1054
e-mail
www.fishville.com
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Punta Gorda Waterfront Anchorage
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fishermen’s Village
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Jun 18, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Reminder: Flesh-Eating Virus is Real!
As our good MTOA friend, Jim Bertch, will attest, this virus is rare, but real and not a myth. This article from Rapid News Network gives details as well as some dos and don’ts. Any open sores or cuts must avoid contact with salt water on lines, traps, etc.
Health officials warn of rare flesh-eating bacteria on Florida beaches | The
Contributed by ADMIN on June 16, 2015 at 12:28 am
The flesh-eating bacteria, also called vibro vulnificus, is reportedly a bacteria thriving in warm seawater. People with some preexisting medical conditions (especially chronic liver disease) as well as previously compromised immune systems, the bacteria can get into the blood stream and cause fever, chills, septic shock, and blistering lesions on the skin. Sufferers sometimes endure painful skin infections and have their limbs amputated; death results in about half of life-threatening cases.
Vibrio vulnificus is a species of Gram-negative, motile, curved, rod-shaped (Bacillus), Pathogenic bacteria of the genus Vibrio. Vibrio is a rare cause of human disease, but it is underreported.
CLICK HERE for the complete report.
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Jun 18, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
BoatUS Media Alert: NC Legislature Proposes New Coastal Waters Fees
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters’ rights in all states and we are proud to have them as SPONSORS!
NEWS From BoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2015
Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
Chart showing the proposed new fees for North Carolina boaters and out-of-state anglers in coastal NC waters.

MEDIA ALERT: NC Legislators Looking to Charge Boaters New Fee
BoatUS Urges Boaters to be Heard
Would be Highest State-Imposed Charges on Boats in the US
THE ISSUE: As part of the current North Carolina budget debate, the state General Assembly is currently considering legislation that would impose a significant new user fee on all recreational boats 24 feet and longer that are used in coastal waters. For example, the costs proposed for the new North Carolina `Coastal Waterways User Identification Fee’ for a 25-foot boat would be $75, $128 for a 32-foot boat, and $200 for a 40-footer. This fee would also apply to any out-of-state vessel fishing in NC coastal waters. Combined with registration fees, the proposed Coastal Boat Fee would be the highest state-imposed charges on recreational boats nationwide.
The proposed fee would be in addition to current state registration fees, which were most recently increased in 2013 to fund dredging and lake weed control. To see a complete list of fees, go to: BoatUS.com/gov/ncfeechart.
ACTION NEEDED NOW: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) urges North Carolina boaters, anglers, and sailors to speak out now and contact their State Senator and Representative today and respectfully urge them to vote “No” on the `Coastal Waterways User Identification Number’ and associated user fee contained in the North Carolina Senate version of House Bill 97.
While the intended use of this fee is to increase funding for dredging of waterways and inlets, this budget proposal places too great a financial burden on recreational boaters. Ask your State Senator and Representative to consider other means to pay for dredging North Carolina’s coastal inlets and essential waterways. Access to the waterways brings substantial economic benefits to coastal communities. Maintaining them must be a shared responsibility.
The budget bill is now before the North Carolina General Assembly and will be voted on in the next few days. Boaters may easily contact their state legislator by going to: http://goo.gl/zWMTpx
ABOUT BOATUS: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its over half million members with government representation, fighting against unfair federal taxes, fees and regulations that single out boat owners. It has over 20,000 North Carolina members. BoatUS is also non-partisan working on both sides of the aisle as well as with state agencies to promote boating laws that make sense.
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Mike Feeney - June 19, 2015 - 4:26 pm

It appears that a significant amount of the new fees would be to support dredging the ICW, inlets and other areas. I, as an out of state boater, don’t like seeing the NC boats pick up the tab for dredging the ICW since many out-of-state boaters use it on a regular basis.
A thought occurred to me that maybe the thing to do, and maybe in all ICW states, is to institute a “toll’ for use of the ICW that would support dredging in the ICW. It shouldn’t be too much, maybe $5 or $10, or boaters would bypass the state, if they could.
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Jun 18, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
The Beautiful Abacos Islands of the Bahamas
Here is a website for those of you who have opted to remain in the Bahamas for the summer:
http://www.bahamas.com/islands/abacos
Welcome to The Abacos. Calm waters, warm breezes and panoramic beauty make this 120-mile’“long chain of islands a boating and sailing paradise. But it’s not just the sea that attracts travelers from around the world. Those who prefer to explore by land will find championship golf courses on Treasure Cay, charming colonial towns on Green Turtle and Elbow Cays, and countless hotels, restaurants and bars throughout The Abacos.
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Jun 17, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Report from Leland Oil Company, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430
Recently renovated Leland Oil Company sits on the northern shores of Jeremy Creek in the heart of McClellanville, hard by the stream’s charted turn to the west. Like many others, we find McClellanville to be one of the most delightful stops on the AICW and yet it’s known to only a few cruisers. Our thanks to Skipper Herl for this report and excellent photos.
Leland Marina
Started out first thing in the AM and made good time, too good. Or maybe I just did not calculate the tide correctly. Anyway, early for Lelands Marina (low tide) so we just dropped an anchor and waited out the tide and came in after 3:00 pm with no problems. Lelands is a small Marina, very friendly and close to the ICW. We did have some issues with the electric (weak breakers) but we got it sorted out.
Lelands are trying to continue to upgrade but still have some bumps to get over. I would stay again if for no other reason than the location is great for picking up fresh shrimp for dinner. The town (McClellanville SC) is small and very quiet. All within walking distance.
Phil Herl

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Company Marina
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Jun 17, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 28.8362,-81.32799999
Reeves’ Reports: Boat Tree Marina, St. Johns River, Sanford, FL

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Skipper Reeves continues his exploration of the St. Johns, visiting some of the off the beaten path locations. Boat Tree Marina lies just north of the St. Johns’ entry into Lake Monroe. This facility features a well sheltered harbor.
We visited Boat Tree and stayed for a couple of months. Would have stayed longer but the docks are dangerous, in need of replacement. See for pictures web site attached. The people are wonderful. Kristy is awesome ! Taking care of us and all. The marina is about 2 miles from nearest food store and 4 miles to shopping center. Ships store has some supplies. The bicycle trails are not there or they stop just when you need them to stay out of traffic. The restaurant/bar was closed. The showers are clean and the laundry is clean. The pool is nice. There is a cafe with good food & prices for breakfast and lunch on site along with a Hair Salon, Sherry the owner is most gracious allowing us to use her wifi at the cafe otherwise we never saw the free wifi. The leash your pets rule is not enforced and a small dog was bitten by a boater’s big dogs running loose. For pics and more see http://ontheofficewautoteacher.blogspot.com/2015_06_01_archive.html
Sunset @ Boat Tree Marina looking East from the Cafe. We enjoyed our stay at Boat Tree. Kristy made us feel welcome and helped us with any question we had. Kristy took care of us! We would have stayed except we had issues with the dock and safety.
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Boat Tree Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Cpt. Bill - June 21, 2015 - 9:03 pm

We stayed abut a year at Boat Tree a few years back and agree completely with Skipper Reeves” comments. The staff is terrific but the docks are terrible. That’s the primary reason we left. They could not provide a stable dock for our 50’+ boat. We found the same concern at the downtown Sanford marina.
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Jun 15, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Industry’s Use of US Inland and Coastal Waterways
This interesting article from MarineLink.com looks at our waterways from a very different perspective than that of the recreational boater, i.e. an industrially-useful waterway network.
Taking Inland Waterways To the Mainstream
By Chip Jaenichen, U.S. Maritime Administrator
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
It takes nonstop work to maintain America’s position in today’s global economy. Every day we compete against strong international rivals for demanding foreign and domestic customers. Thankfully, the American economy has a large-scale, crucial asset that gives us an edge on the rest of the world: over 28,000 miles of inland river and coastal waterways with consistent navigation at suitable depths (9 feet during 9 months of the year) ‘“ more any other nation on earth.
Although we have the world’s greatest industrially-useful waterway network, we are barely using its full capacity. In 2013, the U.S. moved just under 5 percent of our domestic freight shipments by water. Imagine if the Denver Broncos played Peyton Manning for just three minutes each game. That’s essentially what our nation is doing. We are hardly utilizing our greatest competitive advantage. But you can rest assured, other nations are using theirs. Inland waterway shipping currently accounts for over 40 percent of all European Union freight transportation, and that percentage is rising.
CLICK HERE to read the full article.
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Jun 14, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 31.1544,-81.49969999
A Good Visit to Brunswick Landing Marina, off AICW Statute Mile 680

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Brunswick Landing Marina, a very popular facility with long term resident cruisers as well as transient cruisers sits well off the direct path of the Waterway, flanking the eastern banks of Academy Creek off Brunswick River, near the heart of downtown Brunswick, Georgia.
Brunswick Landing Marina, Georgia
Brunswick Landing is another stop that is a little out of the way. ( 5-8 miles) The reason for our slight detour was fuel prices. We were not low but when the price is right I will top everything off. Brunswick Landing is literally downtown, two blocks from the marina and you are downtown. During our stay they had a wine and cheese sampling, after 5:00 the stores stayed open and you could walk through or around, listen to music and partake of the wine, cheese or other snacks.
We ran into two other boats heading north and at one of the evening get together we started talking about any difficult areas coming up. One of those areas was Hells Gate. Our new friends have made the trip several times both north and south so we would follow them. We delayed our departure until they received their repair parts.
The next morning a 190 ft Yacht was on the end of the dock. Her name was `Grace E’ we found out it belonged to the Green Mountain coffee owner also related to Keurig coffee makers. Now I know where our money is going, we love Keurig the boat.

Grace E
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Brunswick Landing Marina
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Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate
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Jun 14, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
Question re Coral and Sea Grass in Anchorages
This reader is seeking advice from those of you who anchor in the Keys. With a 22 inch draft, his primary concerns have to be dropping the hook and going ashore. If you have advice to offer Skipper Novotny, please do so!
Hello, I am planning a sailing trip to the keys on my Nordica 16, 22 inch draft, from sunny Buffalo NY. I noticed a lot of your listed anchorages are in protected areas where according to the rules I read one cannot damage coral or sea grass. How does that work? Are there buoys or are these places where coral and sea grass are not an issue? I am rather confused as you can see after I read the slew of regs from the govt. Any clarification would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Regards
Jerry Novotny
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Chuck Baier - June 14, 2015 - 12:31 pm

Jerry, the fines for damaging sea grass and coral in the Florida Keys can be substantial and they are strictly enforced. In areas of coral, there are buoys installed in some places but these are often, but not always, for day use when snorkeling or diving. Most are on the reefs. In grassy areas you will need to find sandy patches to drop the hook. There is very little shore access in the Keys. They are not very anchor out friendly in many places. With your draft you will find more good anchoring spots on the Bay side than on Ocean side. But weather will determine which side you can comfortably anchor on. In our anchorage book we indicate where any possible dinghy landing spots might be or if there is none. In places like Marathon and some others, the only option to land the dinghy is to pay to use a dinghy dock. Hope this helps. Chuck Baier, The Great Book Of Anchorages.
Reply to Chuck

Jerry Novotny - June 15, 2015 - 1:56 pm

Thank you Chuck, got it, so look for sandy patches.
One more question: I see all the no discharge rules (and penalties) for boats with holding tanks, what about smaller boats without heads per se, what do the authorities look for there? Is the use of marina facilities assumed? Thanks Jerry
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Jun 12, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
June 13 is National Marina Day!
June 13 will be the 2015 celebration of National Marina Day all across the country. Wherever you are, find your way to your favorite marina and let them know how much they are appreciated!
Welcome to the Water on National Marina Day is a nationwide boating event dedicated to grow boating participation across North America. Marine businesses collaborate to hold events to introduce the public to boating through on-water and landside activities at marinas in every corner of the country.
For more information at a great website, go to www.NationalMarinaDay.org!
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Jun 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Restrictions on Anchoring Events in the Keys Considered
Although the party style anchoring reported here is not the anchoring done by cruisers, the issue of restriction is very much a part of Florida’s focus on the control of anchoring throughout the state. See /?p=148212 for background on recent Florida legislation on anchoring.
Restrictions on boating events mulled
Sanctuary said races, parties taking toll
BY KEVIN WADLOW
kwadlow@keynoter.com
June 10, 2015
When too many boaters drop anchor for an on-the-water Florida Keys party, the marine environment may suffer.
On Tuesday in Marathon, advisers to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary will discuss “challenges and issues” created by “marine events and concentrated uses such as party areas, raft-ups, and boat races.”
Members of the Sanctuary Advisory Council requested a session on large boating events, sanctuary spokeswoman Rachel Pawlitz said.
Sanctuary managers have not taken a position on any new regulation, Pawlitz said.
“We understand these types of recreational events are popular, but the sanctuary has to consider effects on marine resources, and try to find the right balance,” she said.
Last November, more than 100 boats in Key West for the annual powerboat races traveled the 14 miles to Boca Grande, an island within the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. Boats anchored on nearby flats and ran aground on the uninhabited island’s sandy beach.
In January, Monroe County Commissioners blocked a recommendation to spend $10,000 in Tourist Development Council funding to promote a new boating raft-up in Key Largo during this year’s Columbus Day holiday in October.
Boat races were among scheduled activities in Key Largo, although organizers with the Florida Powerboat Club said the races were being scaled back in favor of a “cruising rendezvous.”
Nancy Finley, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manager of the Florida Keys Wildlife Refuge Complex, said Friday that organized and promoted events in wildlife refuge waters “do need a permit and a compatibility determination.”
Finley will speak at Tuesday’s sanctuary council meeting at the Hyatt Place Marathon resort, along with representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
The Boca Grande situation “has been resolved, from my point of view,” Finley said. “They need a permit. At this point, no one has asked for one.”
“Any event that is expected to draw large interest and focus on one section of the refuge, whether there is money involved or if it’s a non-profit, is going to need a compatibility determination.”
Boca Grande, she noted, has seen significant erosion of its sandy beach that is a critical turtle-nesting area. The island also houses a very rare colony of the protected Miami Blue butterfly.
Some Lower Matecumbe Key residents have complained about noise from boat gatherings off a neighborhood. FWC officers have said that without seeing illegal activity or environmental damage occurring, there was little they could do.
Any recommendations from the Sanctuary Advisory Council would undergo review by federal and state staff.
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Jun 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.276,-81.71559999
Another Good Visit to Ortega Yacht Club Marina, St. Johns River, Jacksonville, Fl

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Located on the Ortega River just above the Roosevelt Blvd. Bridge and just below the intersection of the Ortega and St. Johns Rivers, Ortega Yacht Club Marina is especially convenient to the Riverside section of Jacksonville. Our thanks to Skipper Herl for this report.
Ortega Yacht Club, Florida
Ortega Yacht Club is a bit out of the way if you plan to stay on the ICW. It is 20-25 mile from Sisters Creek on the ICW so if you go, you have to do it on purpose. If you have some time and want to get away from the ICW for a few days the Ortega would be a great place to do just that. Ortega is not affiliated with any FCYC Yacht Clubs.
Paul the dock master is great, tryes to help you in any way he can. One day we needed to get to a Wall Mart, Paul carried us to Wall Mart in his truck so we could replace a TV that stopped working.
We stayed over a week. Completed some chores, did laundry, (and that needed to be accomplished) and were able to get away from the boat for a while to do some shopping. The shopping is within walking distance. Belks, West Marine, Publics, CVS, restraunts and lots more. I was able to stop into a hearing aid place (not my brand) to get my aids checked and cleaned. They were actually exited to help us as well as interested in our trip. Another hint is to buy a real comfortable back pack for the grocery runs.
Phil Herl

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Jun 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.6425,-81.63159999
Good Visit to Boathouse Marina, St. Johns River, Palatka, FL

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Boathouse Marina overlooks the shores of the St. Johns River west-southwest of Palatka City Marina and marker #1. As Skipper Herl points out, cruisers docking here are within walking easy distance of the shops and restaurants in downtown Palatka.
Boathouse Marina, Palatka
Was a very pleasant run from Lake George to Boathouse, 3.5 hr @ approx. 9 knot. We arrived in the pm and were docked and tied by just after noon. This was really different for us, we normally don’t get in until 3:00 or 4:00 pm.
The marina facilities are very clean but rustic. We were able to catch up on our laundry. Boathouse is also within walking distance to good eats and to just see the town. Very nice walk.
We do have friends on the area so we were able to commandeer a car. Publics, WinDixie and a Walmart are within a short drive. We were able to just relax, even took the dingy out for evening cruises on the river. We were also able to visit Ravine Gardens, spent several very pleasant hours there.
Phil Herl

One of the Dockmates
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Jun 7, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 30.6314,-81.47749999
Report from Amelia Island Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 720.5

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The entrance channel leading to Amelia Island Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, cuts into the AICW’s eastern flank, immediately north of the Kingsley Creek Railway Bridge, and just south of Waterway marker #13. Skipper Herl’s report relates a visit before dredging was completed, see /?p=139385
Amelia Island Yacht Basin
The crew there is great and the restaurant `The Galley Pub’ was very good. Just stopped in to get a snack but ended up with a huge juicy hamburger and all the fixins. Yum-yum.
They are in the process of dredging [now completed] the canal and basin to improve the depth but did not know what the time line would be for completion.
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Jun 7, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.5083,-81.67789999
New Owners at Acosta Creek Marina, St. Johns River, Satsuma, FL

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Acosta Creek Marina lies on the east side of the St. Johns River between markers #41 and 42A, south of Seminole Grove, FL. Congratulations to the Simons and we wish them the very best with all their plans.
Recently, Bob and Jane Simons acquired Acosta Creek Marina (formerly Acosta Creek Harbor) in Satsuma Fl. from previous owners James and Cathy Towles. Eager to bring more business into the marina, Jane & Bob have been working hard planning big improvements and repairing facilities that already exist. For those not familiar with the area, Acosta Creek Marina sits approximately an hour and a half south of Jacksonville, two hours north of Orlando, fifty minutes southeast of St Augustine and an hour east of Gainesville all by car. Those of you traveling by water the Acosta Creek Marina is located within close proximity to channel marker 42.
The new owners of Acosta Creek Marina have very big plans for their new purchase including expanding many of the marina’s services, as well adding to the goods carried by the ship’s store and improving the grounds about Acosta Creek Marina. Their ultimate goal is to make Acosta Creek Marina not just a stop over or place to store your vessel but a destination on this scenic part of the St. Johns River. They currently offer very affordable dockage at only $7.00 a foot per month with electric on a metered basis and have removed the previous length requirement in order to bring in new customers. Transient dockage is $1.00 a foot daily plus $6.50 for electric. Although Acosta Creek Marina is located in a rural setting, the new owners can arrange transportation for you into town to purchase supplies or check out many of the excellent restaurants in the area. One of their personal favorite dining establishments is Hawg Wash BBQ, with authentic excellent smoked barbecue. The marina is equipped with a 25 ton travel lift and a boat yard where you can do-it-yourself or have one of the many skilled contractors work on your vessel for you. The marina features fixed wood piers with finger slips, showers, a laundry facility and a ship’s store that Jane is working hard to improve.
Other amenities on site encompass a full gambit of recreational activities, with cabins, RV spots, picnic tables, and the soon to be installed horseshoe pits and grills. Some of the best bass fishing in the world is located within in a couple minutes of Acosta Creek Marina and the beautiful crystal clear freshwater springs are located only a short beautiful cruise away.
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Jun 3, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 29.3802,-81.62819999
Report from Georgetown Marina and Lodge, Lake George, St. Johns River

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Georgetown Marina and Lodge lies north of marker #72, a short hop north of the St. Johns River’s northerly intersection with Lake George.Our thanks to Skipper Herl for this report.
Georgetown Marina, Lake George, Florida
Georgetown Marina, located at the very north end of Lake George. We originally thought about getting fuel there but they were having trouble with their pumps and they were running really slow. George Town is a nice quiet little fish camp type of marina. The people are very friendly and helpful. Since it is at the very north end of the lake, it can be a bit lumpy if the wind is out of the south.
There are not a lot of stores or restaurants within walking distance, so it is probably only for one night stops.
We wanted to stop in Lake George and take the dingy into Silver Glen Springs, but the weather did not cooperate. If your ever in the area Silver Glen Springs is one place you should put on the to do list. On weekends it can get really crowded, especially holidays.
Phil Herl

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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Dick Lawson - June 6, 2015 - 11:05 am

Every other year we venture up the St Johns. We always spend one night tied up at Georgetown Marina. Limited dock space and amenities, but the friendliness of the staff make up for that. Their fuel prices are always some of the lowest on the river.
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Jun 1, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 28.3575,-80.72539999
Good Visit to Cocoa Village Marina, Cocoa, FL, AICW Statute Mile 897

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Cocoa Village Marina occupies the mainland side of the Waterway, just north of the Cocoa bridge and only a few quick steps from the downtown Cocoa business district! Our thanks to Skipper Herl for these photos!
Coco Village Marina, Coco, Florida
Nice place to stop. Only spent one night. So did not get to do much. A place we would like to spend some time at on the way back home.
Phil Herl

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