Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Jun 21, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.577,-81.19359999
Good Words for Palm Coast Marina, Palm Coast, FL, AICW Statute Mile 802

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Like others before, Skipper Reeves sends good remarks about the facilities at Palm Coast Marina. This marina is found on a small canal which indents the Waterway’s western banks south of St. Augustine and north of Daytona Beach.
Great stop over! Clean restrooms showers, nice dog walk. Easy walk to restaurants and shops. The pizza at Mezzaluna Pizzeria is above average. Very little tide or current. Sheltered from high winds.
Sonny Reeves
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Eastern Florida Marina Directory Listing For Palm Coast Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Palm Coast Marina
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Jun 21, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.7085,-78.91979999
Two Near-Accidents in the “Rock Pile”, Myrtle Beach, SC, AICW Statute Mile 350-365

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The “Rock Pile” is a man-made canal-like section of the AICW, officially known as the Pine Island Cut, running between Little River and Waccamaw River. The canal is narrow and lined with submerged rocks and a rock shelf, just a foot or two below the water’s surface.
When the USACOE was building this portion of the AICW in the 1930’s they encountered a sold shelf of granite. The Corps simply blasted through this obstruction, but, over the years, the soft silt above and below these rocky outcropping has washed away, making the canal now appear wider than it really is. Also, over the years, many portions of the rock shelf have broken off, and left all sort of underwater rocks waiting to trap keels and underwater hardware.
Cruisers are urged to hold as close to the mid-width of the Pine Island Cut as possible, and announce their presence on VHF in case large commercial traffic is approaching, which could force you out of the channel’s mid-line and onto the “rocks,” especially at high tide when the rocks are fully submerged. Our suggestion is to keep a sharp lookout for rocks and IDIOTS!
June 21,2014: And now reports of two near accidents in the Rock Pile:
We were just reading this email string as we went north through the Rock Pile this morning, June 21, when we were passed by a 40-ft power boat named St Augustine going southbound at about 16 knots. He was pushing a 3-ft bow wave that had our 43-ft Shannon rocking and rolling. He did not answer our angry hail on channel 16. About 5 minutes later we heard another angry boater hailing St Augustine. If anyone meets this guy, please try to teach him some boating safety.
Ellen Hall
June 22, 2014
We were the other angry boaters that Ellen heard calling to Miss St Augustine on June 21 in the Rock Pile. Jim was trying to get him on the VHF and I was standing on the bow waving my arms and making `slow down’ motions. The jerk looked right at me as he blasted by us. Luckily I was hanging on to the rail or I could have been easily thrown overboard from our 50′ Californian. He couldn’t have been more than 20 ‘˜ from us as he went by at that speed. I always wonder if people like that are simply ignorant of how to handle a boat or if they just don’t care about anyone else.
Paula Spence
May 12, 2014:
Good Morning:
This is what we heard about the accident at the Rock Pile. This information was obtained from radio conversation and a fellow boater from the marina going up there to actually see the accident – if more accurate info is needed I guess you can contact tow boat us as they were the ones working the accident – we don’t want to give out wrong info – we just wanted to remind fellow boaters the rock pile is a place you should respect and use caution/common sense.
A 42′ sport fish boat was traveling about 18 knots and was trying to pass another boat – due to each others wake he ended up on top of a rock shelf – all five people on the boat were unhurt and got off all ok.
What we heard on our radio after the accident was tow boat us asking other boaters to please slow down and do an idle speed past them – we were surprised that boaters would have to be asked and not just do it out of courtesy and common sense.
Rick and Margi
Aboard Journey
summering at Barefoot Marina
North Myrtle Beach, SC
Hi Claiborne,
We passed it after it happened so we don’t know specifics. Looked like the boat tried to reach a dock & hit a ledge. Or maybe he was just far out of the channel. Both SeaTow & Boat US were keeping him from tipping over. Here’s a photo.
Rich-Sue Freeman
18 knots through that stretch while passing? Hmmmm’¦.renews my belief that HP should never exceed IQ. Don’t misunderstand me, I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy, but’¦.
ULLR
There’s no cure for STUPID! Doing 18k and passing another vessel in the rock pile is not good judgment. Good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment. Hopefully, they will learn.
Joe Apicella
I hail out of Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay and North Channel area, and this kind of stupidity ‘“ there’s no other word for it ‘“ is typically not seen because we have nothing BUT granite alongside our waterways. You learn quickly that in the eternal battle of fiberglass vs granite, fibreglass has never lost a round.
This sportfisher ‘“ and excuse me for saying this is no loss to boating, most of these guys are not at all courteous on the water ‘“ deserved what he got. I just hope he wasn’t insured, so that he won’t be too soon back on the water.
Wally Moran
`Doing 18k and passing another vessel in the rock pile is not good judgment.’
Actually, it is total lack of judgement, something seen too frequently with the `in a hurry’ sport-fishing crowd. I have had vessels overtake me in this area and I always appreciate when the pass occurs at idle speed. Fortunately, I can generally time my passage through here other than weekends (when traffic is heavier and perhaps less experienced), as well as in the off season.
This area should be an official (and enforced) No Wake Zone, as passing another vessel can be a real challenge, particularly at the southern end, and especially at low tide. Thankfully, I have never encountered any barge traffic here, though it may be too narrow for many commercial vessels.
Gregory Yount SV Intermezzo
I don’t wish anyone harm or damage but had that boat been passing me at 18 knots and not ended up on the rock pile, I would have! And I have a 45’ trawler.
Glad no one was hurt but hope there were substantial financial penalties which will make the boat driver think long and hard about doing something so absolutely stupid in the future.
John Durden
We go thru there on a regular basis and in my opinion trying to pass at all is a bit iffy. Passing at 18 knots is just dumb. As they say ‘ all you need to run a boat is money, no brain is required’.
David Boxmeyer
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Southern End of the Rock Pile
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Jun 19, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.8726,-78.56969999
Good Advice for Anchoring in Calabash Creek, AICW Statute Mile 342

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Calabash Creek lies to the north of the Waterway, just south of the SC/NC state line. This anchorage can get very crowded during the busy season, but if you can find a spot, there are two fine seafood restaurants accessible just upstream by dinghy.
Take note of Skipper Hetzer’s advice to enter between the two red markers, both “2”. One is a Little River ICW marker R2 with the yellow square – take to Port on entering – and the other is R2 for Calabash Creek. Fortunately, such marker confusion does not happen often along the Waterway.
We’re locals and anchor there frequently in our 35′ Island Packet with 4-1/2′ draft. Enter and exit BETWEEN the Reds, favoring the ICW R2. Anchor in 9-12′ at high tide north of the channel anywhere before the Clubhouse on the north bank. Lots of fishing boat traffic, so anchor out of the channel, but don’t get too close to shore either, lest you swing ashore. Keep your rode as short as you dare. 2-3kts of current at full stream, but good holding on a muddy bottom.
Michael Hetzer
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For The Calabash Creek Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Calabash Creek Anchorage
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Jun 16, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Claiborne S. Young, 1951-2014
Claiborne Sellars Young [1951-2014] passed away on Saturday evening, June 14, 2014 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill following a serious motorcycle accident. He passed into the arms of the Lord at 7:00 p.m. surrounded by family and friends.
Born and raised in Burlington, Claiborne lived there all of his life. He was a well loved, well respected man in all aspects of his life. He was a devoted husband, well-known boating author, speaker, and web publisher. He was also a generous, kind and loyal fellow to the many people who called him Friend. Claiborne will be mourned and missed by family, friends, associates, and fellow cruisers.
Claiborne was a graduate of Walter M. Williams High School in Burlington and NC State University in Raleigh. Following the closing of the Sellars family business in the early 80s, he turned to his next loves ‘“ water and boating ‘“ eventually authoring a series of books for the cruising community from North Carolina to Florida. His first book, the `Cruising Guide to North Carolina’ was published in 1983. He also worked with UNC-TV [PBS] to produce a series of travel videos on the waters and small towns of North Carolina’s coast. More recently, Claiborne went on share his love and knowledge of all things water related and published a successful website dedicated to the boating community and boating legislation. Claiborne was loved by many friends within that community, and always had a place to stay and chat while traveling on his speaking engagements. Those who knew him, found that Claiborne was never at a loss for words!
At home, Claiborne was a loving and devoted husband for 40 years, a motorcycle enthusiast, and animal lover. During the years of their marriage, he and Karen were ardent supporters of the Alamance County Humane Society and the American Humane Society, and surrounded themselves with many four-legged friends. Claiborne was also a self-taught chef who was often found in the kitchen producing the most aromatic and tasty dishes. When Claiborne put on a spread, everyone was happy, full, and sated!
Claiborne was preceded in death by his wife Karen Williams Young who passed away October 2013, and his parents Claibourne Clark Young and Dorothy Sellars Young Brawley. He is survived by family from his Sellars and Young relations, as well as his Williams in-laws.
A service of remembrance will be held at Rich and Thompson Chapel in Burlington on Wednesday, June 18, at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Genie Martin officiating.
Visitation will be Tuesday evening June 17 from 5:00 ‘“ 7:00 p.m. at Rich & Thompson in Burlington and other times at the Young’s home [814 Colonial Drive, Burlington].
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Hospice of Alamance/Caswell, 914 Chapel Hill Road, Burlington, NC 27215.
Condolences may be offered at www.richandthompson.com.
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Jun 14, 2014by: Larry Dorminy 114 Comments
CLAIBORNE YOUNG DIES IN SERIOUS ACCIDENT
Claiborne died this afternoon from injuries suffered in a serious motorcycle accident earlier today. He had been in surgery at UNC Hospital for several hours with doctors attempting unsuccessfully to stop internal bleeding. We ask that your prayers and thoughts go out to Claiborne’s family.
Claiborne was Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net and like a giant tsunami, his death has left the staff adrift in a sea of unknowns. We will continue to function as best as possible until the future of SSECN can be determined.
Larry
ADMIN NOTE TO THE SSECN COMMUNITY: If you would like to leave a comment, condolences, tribute or memory of Claiborne please click here and leave a comment or send your message to tribute@cruisersnet.net.
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Comments from Cruisers (114)

John J. Kettlewell -  June 16, 2014 - 9:34 am

Larry:
Thank you for letting me know. The message arrived as I was working on my boat and I just lay there onboard thinking of the many times Claiborne and I spoke and laughed together, and of the many, many times I read through his books and his website looking for great advice.
John J. Kettlewell
Reply to John

Michael Lieberum -  June 16, 2014 - 9:32 am

Larry, I am so sorry to hear this. My heart goes out to you and the family.
Michael Lieberum
Seventh Coast Guard District
Reply to Michael

Bob Todd -  June 16, 2014 - 9:23 am

We heard the news on Cruiseheimers today. Claiborne has been our inspiration while cruising the Carolinas and beyond. We are very sad and our prayers go out to the family and friends.
Reply to Bob

Carol Geiger -  June 16, 2014 - 9:03 am

Thank You. very sad. I met him this past year when he came to speak in Punta Gorda.
I am a member of Punta Gorda Sailing Club and Editor of out monthly email newsletter the Jib Sheet. If I can be of any service to the Cruisers’ Net please do not hesitate to give me a call. Anything, please ask. Like you said, we must continue to be faithful stewards of their dream. My husband and I use the Net all the time during our travels aboard our sailboat.
Blessings to all of you.
Carol Geiger
15 Tropicana Drive
Punta Gorda, Fl 33950
Reply to Carol

S/v Rasselas -  June 16, 2014 - 9:00 am

Words can not express my feelings and sadness this morning. Such a dear friend and what a legacy he has left all of us who knew him. GOD BLESS his family at this time.
Perry
Reply to S/v

Bobbi Lancaster -  June 16, 2014 - 8:46 am

Claiborne and I had just begun a project together with finally getting marina pictures downloaded on the Salty web site. It was exciting to be helping him with this and his enthusiasm was priceless. He never ceased to tire of helping his fellow boaters. So glad his last week was spent on the water in his new boat. My sympathies to his friends and family and to his fur-child, Samson. They will all miss him very much.
Reply to Bobbi

Rick Kane -  June 16, 2014 - 8:10 am

God bless his family and other dear ones. For all my sailing days (NC and beyond), Clairborne has been not just a voice of safety, seamanship, information, and yes indeed, where to go for food and fun, but like a spirit guide, he was right there with the deep reasons we love sailing and the sea so much in the first place. He will be missed, and remembered, his contributions to the richness of boating will carry on forever.
Reply to Rick

John Kettlewell -  June 16, 2014 - 8:09 am

The news arrived as I was working on my boat and I could only think of the many, many times Claiborne and I discussed some Waterway development. He was a man who truly believe in what he did and always tried to make the best product possible. The boating community has suffered a great loss.
Reply to John

Mary Dickens -  June 16, 2014 - 5:59 am

So very sorry for your loss. This is truly shocking. Prayers are going out for the family and staff.
Reply to Mary

Dotti Vaivoda -  June 16, 2014 - 5:36 am

I am sincerely saddened to hear about Claiborne ‘s death. He was an amazing man who gave so much of himself to his passion of boating and cruising. He came to Punta Gorda several times and helped our community so much sharing his knowledge and helped us to shape our town to become more boater friendly. We all will miss him terribly. I personally appreciated all the personal advice he gave me for my new business direction. He was always open and provided such sincerity in everything he did and all the lives he touched. RIP Claiborne. You will be missed by all of us.
Reply to Dotti

Cappy Stahlman -  June 15, 2014 - 11:20 pm

Very sorry to hear of the loss of Claiborne, I learned a lot from him over the years. I will miss his missives greatly.
Reply to Cappy

George Barr -  June 15, 2014 - 10:38 pm

Oh my goodness…we have lost a great, gentle man today. Long before the Cruisers Net, Claiborne was a passionate advocate for cruising and boaters and a friend to all on the water.
There is no replacing him and the cruising community is a whole lot smaller tonight. May he rest in peaceful waters.
Reply to George

Ted and Relinda Broom -  June 15, 2014 - 10:33 pm

It is with great sorrow we acknowledge the loss of Claiborne. I am sure his loss will greatly affect the office. We will standby and hope you are able endure the loss.
Ted and Relinda Broom
Reply to Ted

Eddie Jones -  June 15, 2014 - 10:31 pm

Wow, thanks for the update, Larry. Still in shock over the news.
Eddie Jones
Reply to Eddie

Duane Ising -  June 15, 2014 - 10:28 pm

Larry and the entire staff:
We are so saddened by the news. He will be sorely missed. Our condolences go out to his family and all those close to him.
Duane Ising
Reply to Duane

Barbara Kipnis, MTOA President -  June 15, 2014 - 7:32 pm

What a horrible shock! Claiborne was a great contributor to our Rendezvous and our organization, plus being a really nice guy. His cruising knowledge helped all east coast boaters travel more easily and safely. He will be greatly missed.
Reply to Barbara

Cyndi Perkins -  June 15, 2014 - 5:36 pm

Many many prayers going out to Claiborne’s family as we celebrate a one-of-a-kind cruiser, nautical journalist and boater advocate whose presence will remain a guiding force in cockpits around the country. May his good works continue, may we all continue to network as we share our memories and express our appreciation.
Cyndi Perkins
Reply to Cyndi

John Y. Jackson -  June 15, 2014 - 5:15 pm

What a tragedy! I hope the Cruiser Net will be able to continue, it has been invaluable.
Reply to John

Peggy Bjarno -  June 15, 2014 - 4:53 pm

Such a loss for all of us! Claiborne was so full of life and joy, he shared his enthusiasm and knowledge with great generosity. He will be sorely missed by all of us in the boating community.
Peggy and Hans
Reply to Peggy

Wally Moran -  June 15, 2014 - 4:41 pm

Winston, I only just now heard. If there is anything I can do that will assist, please ask.
I am so broken hearted, and I can only imagine what you and others who knew Claiborne far better than I, are feeling.
Wally Moran
Reply to Wally

Bob and Liz Stagg -  June 15, 2014 - 3:14 pm

We share your disbelief — and your profound grief. Claiborne has been a friend and mentor. Our boating community has lost a magnificent voice, and we will sorely miss him.
Bob and Liz Stagg, AGLCA
Reply to Bob

Tom Conrad -  June 15, 2014 - 3:10 pm

Again, with a heavy heart, I use this forum to share my sorry and disbelief in yesterday’s passing of Claiborne Young from a motorcycle accident. His guiding hand was always with cruisers and boaters everywhere. His voice of many words will be remembered for a long time.
Claiborne will now join his beloved wife but we will be at a loss without him.
Claiborne, stay safe on your final journey,
Tom Conrad, AGLCA
Reply to Tom

Mike Ahart -  June 15, 2014 - 3:02 pm

I am so saddened by the news. It was one of Claiborne’s seminars that helped inspire Jan & I to gain confidence and live the cruising lifestyle. I was just starting to get to know him personally, as we had some great conversations, alas too infrequently. He was truly a great man, and I have never heard said an unkind word about him, nor have I heard claiborne utter an unkind word about anyone.
If there is anything I or WG can do to help, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Sincerely,
Mike Ahart, Waterway Guide
Reply to Mike

Connie & Bruce Rosenthal -  June 15, 2014 - 2:54 pm

What a gift Claiborne Young was! The gift endures. He helped so many of us traverse the ICW with ease due to his commitment to get important information to us in a timely manner. I never met him but feel the loss nonetheless. Praying for his family and friends. Thanks Claiborne…your life and legacy endure.
Reply to Connie

Chris -  June 15, 2014 - 11:14 am

We only knew Caliborne by keyboard and phone. He had a generous spirit, a clever mind, and a Vision. This will take quite a while to absorb. Our prayers go out to his loved ones — he doesn’t need ours, he’s home already.
Reply to Chris

Chris & Alyse Caldwell -  June 15, 2014 - 10:48 am

Claiborne was a true friend and a southern gentleman. Alyse and I first met Claiborne in New Orleans is the early 90’s when he was presenting a seminar on cruising the gulfcoast. Later we crossed courses at many boat shows and other speaking engagements. We remember his smile, welcoming attitude and of course our first impression, his hush puppy shoes. He gave inspiration to the novice cruiser and well researched guidance to those out upon the waterways and we are so grateful to have known him.
Goodbye Claiborne we will miss you,
Chris & Alyse Caldwell
Reply to Chris

Chase -  June 15, 2014 - 10:15 am

This is very sad news. I really like that guy, and his words have guided many a memorable adventure for some of us. He lived his life fully, I think, right up to the end. My sincerest condolences to his family, whom I hope realize the appreciation that many of us have for his work, and his joviality. There has always been something familiar about his words, over the many years of using his books and website, and they will live on.
I hope that there is some way this [SSECN] can continue.
Chase
Reply to Chase

Julie -  June 15, 2014 - 10:13 am

Claiborne had a life with meaning. His publications, website, and talks have inspired boaters to get out there and enjoy the water, and have given us the information we need to do so successfully. His death is a tremendous loss to the boating community.
Reply to Julie

David Schultz -  June 15, 2014 - 9:54 am

As a past commander of the Greensboro Power Squadron I have had the chance to talk with Claiborne on several occasions in fact we just had him as our speaker at our May meeting. We all loved Claiborn’s wit, kindness and above all his strong devotion to recreational boating and boat safety. We at the Greensboro Power Squadron wish to send out our most sincere condolences to all of Claiborne’s friends and family.
Reply to David

Penny and John Holmes -  June 15, 2014 - 9:40 am

Larry, we are so sad to hear of this great loss to Claiborne’s family and the boating community. We have gotten to know Claiborne as he has made his annual tours to share his great knowledge in a most entertaining and informative fashion. He is with Karen and will forever sail the seas of the here after. Our condolences also go out to the staff of Cruisers Net.
Reply to Penny

Chase -  June 15, 2014 - 9:34 am

Andy, you are so right. I have always valued his work, he will be missed sorely by all of us.
Chase
Reply to Chase

AGLCA -  June 15, 2014 - 9:10 am

America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association shares in the boating community’s loss. Claiborne devoted his life to making boating a better experience for everyone who knew him or read his guides.
With sadness,
Janice Kromer
Executive Director
AGLCA
Kim Russo
Strategic Development
AGLCA
Reply to AGLCA

Carl & Debbie Gaines, s/v Diva -  June 15, 2014 - 9:06 am

Debbie & I are shocked and full of sadness. Our sincere condolences to the Salty Southeast family and to Claiborne’s family and friends. We had the great fortune to meet Claiborne at at New Bern cruisers’ gam about seven years ago. He was a true southern gentleman and a monumental friend of cruisers. I was just about to pen a big compliment and thank you for the website’s help in our locating anchorages and marinas in our new cruising home, west coast of Florida. I am amazed at the quality and helpfulness of the website which mirrors Claiborne’s personal qualities. We will miss him as a trusted, congenial member of the cruising family.
Reply to Carl

Mark Phelps -  June 15, 2014 - 8:56 am

Claiborne was one of our oldest and dearest friends. We got the call from his friend Don Braxton, about 1:35 PM Saturday. Claiborne and Don had been out on a beautiful day for a scenic Bike ride on a country road. A car swerved over into his lane and Claiborne had to lay the bike down at speed and still the car collided with him. We rushed to UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC and were the first to arrive and were joined later by Karen’s parents Bud and Shirley Williams and several members of Karen’s family, and friends, along with Don Braxton, who were all distraught as you could imagine. We all stayed there and were with Claiborne at his bedside when he went to join Karen in Heaven. My wife Betty and I have been friends with Karen and Claiborne for 35 years and have been on many adventures with the years. For 8 years in a row we spent a week together on Peaks Island in Portland, Maine and will cherish those memories forever. Once again Karen is his “First Rate First Mate” and they will sail the seas of the hereafter together forever.
Reply to Mark

Paula Spence, M/Y Sea Eagle -  June 15, 2014 - 8:37 am

Jim and I are shocked and saddened to hear this news. What a terrible loss for his family and for the cruising community. Rest in peace, Claiborne, and thank you.
Reply to Paula

Stephanie Wakelin -  June 15, 2014 - 8:33 am

Very sad news, indeed. Claiborne’s books were cruising companions for many years. He will be greatly missed by the cruising community. Our prayers are with his family and friends.
Reply to Stephanie

Hank Pomeranz -  June 15, 2014 - 7:52 am

We are extremely saddened. Claiborne was a guest in our home a few short weeks ago and we got to know him a little beyond his SSECN persona. Claiborne’s death is a great loss to the cruising community. Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends. Larry, if there’s anything we can do, don’t hesitate to ask. Hank and Lisa Pomeranz.
Reply to Hank

Peggy (and Jay) Bliss in St Augustine -  June 15, 2014 - 7:41 am

We will forever miss you Claiborne!
Claiborne brought enormous awareness to the water community of the ups and downs (mostly downs) of the Pilot Program when being initiated here in Florida. We got to know him over the following years! We loved that southern charm and his unsurpassed wit and grin. We will miss sharing a good glass of rum and the never ending tales as only Claiborne can re-tell them. I know he’ll sure be glad to be with Karen now. His free spirit and karma gets to stay here with us! Our love and prayers are with his family during this unsettling time.
Reply to Peggy

Mike & Jan Ahart -  June 15, 2014 - 7:01 am

Such sad news – he was an inspiration, and the waterways will not be the same without him. Our condolences to his family and to the cruising community.
Reply to Mike

Alyse Caldwell -  June 15, 2014 - 6:16 am

Claiborne’s guides about the coast of the gulf south and up through the Carolinas gave fuel to our passion for cruising. What a legacy he leaves with all of us. A true southern gentleman whose life impacted us in more ways than most will ever know. We are blessed to have known him. Chris & Alyse Caldwell
Reply to Alyse

Stan jones -  June 15, 2014 - 12:45 am

The cruising world lost an icon. I’m happy he is with his first Mate.
Reply to Stan

Susan Sorensen -  June 14, 2014 - 11:52 pm

Just read this terribly sad news on a friends post.
I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Claiborne back in the mid 80’s when we owned a boatyard in St Augustine and he was researching the area for his book. We remained in touch off and on through the years; a gracious and good man who will be missed by many in the cruising world as well as all those whose lives he touched.
Fair winds my old friend. Godspeed.
Reply to Susan

Andy denmark -  June 14, 2014 - 11:32 pm

Tragic news. Claiborne was a gift to the waterway cruisers. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to all.
Reply to Andy

Charmaine Smith Ladd -  June 14, 2014 - 9:52 pm

R.I.P. sweet Claiborne. Got an email from you yesterday with the news you were excited and very busy about moving your recently purchased trawler. From such a high to the lowest of lows we can traverse so quickly. Smooth seas my friend, smooth seas. To all who knew and loved you…you will never be forgotten. Much Love, Charmaine
Reply to Charmaine

Chuck Baier -  June 14, 2014 - 9:48 pm

Larry, We are so shocked I can’t put it into words. This is a tragedy.
Chuck Baier
Reply to Chuck

Kathrin & Ron Sagaert -  June 14, 2014 - 9:42 pm

Our prayers are with your family. We have been cruising for years and Claiborne’s input to the boating community has been insightful, beneficial and very reassuring.
Kathrin & Ron
Reply to Kathrin

Chuck baier -  June 14, 2014 - 9:34 pm

Larry, We have lost a good friend today and the boating community has suffered a great loss. This is such a shock and such sad news. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Chuck and Susan
Reply to Chuck

doug jacoby -  June 14, 2014 - 9:23 pm

So very sad… a true loss to family, friends and cruisers. Personally and professionally , greatly missed. What a contribution and legacy.
Reply to doug

Suasn Leaf -  June 14, 2014 - 9:13 pm

Our condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed!
Reply to Suasn

sonny reeves -  June 14, 2014 - 8:12 pm

So sad for the loss. My prayers are
for the family
Reply to sonny
Jun 13, 2014by: Claiborne Young No Comments
GREAT Video Shows All the Good Qualities of Cruising Crystal River (Western Florida’s Big Bend Region)
Here’s a really neat and useful video that will be of interest to ALL mariners contemplating a cruise of Western Florida’s Big Bend region. Our thanks to Skippers Susan Landry and Chuck Baier, owners of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com) for providing this very visual aid. Wow, makes me want to visit Crystal River ASAP!
Please check out:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIAlogIPVhs&feature=youtu.be
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Jun 12, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.5539,-77.35189999
Successful Low Tide Passage through New River Inlet/AICW Problem Stretch Intersection, AICW Statute Mile 246

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The Waterway typically shoals either immediately north or south of the four-way intersection with New River and New River Inlet. Dredging at this intersection was begun in November of 2012 and was to have been completed by February of 2013.
June 12. On advise from TowboatUS heading north, kept two Green markers just off to starboard, then hard right past red to my port. Went through with no problem at dead low tide. His advice, don’t inadvertently cut a green, which is mistake many make. Lowest depth I read was approx. 7 feet. I was on a Catalina 42, 5 Ft. wing keel.
Dan O’Brien
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For New River/New River Inlet
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Jun 8, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.7212,-76.77779999
Shoaling Reported South of Morehead City, AICW Statute Mile 210

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This reported shoaling is west of Morehead City in a long narrow channel in the open waters of Bogue Sound, where the Waterway runs east/west. Marker #7 sits on the south side of the channel opposite the mouth to Peletier Creek. If you have also experienced shallow water at this spot, let us hear from you.
Shoaling in the channel Bogue Sound, NC near mile 210 south of Beaufort, NC. Ran aground near G’7’³ today. Seems the spoil area has spilled into the channel. We were slightly right of center in the channel, mid tide rising (2.5′ above MLW) when our 6′ draft sailboat was brought to an abrupt haul. It was sand or silt and were able to get free without a problem, but the new shoal extended to near the center of the channel. A large catamaran with 4′ draft was two miles behind us, that we were unable to contact on VHF, also ran aground on the same shoal.
Recommend cruisers be alerted to favor the red side for 12′ plus depths north of mile marker 210 until past G’7’³.
Pete Peterson
We ditto the comment. We got to the green side at this same marker and were in 4.5 feet of water at near low tide.
John Winter
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Shoaling
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Jun 2, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Derelict Facts in the State of Florida
The derelict issue, problem, controversy, whatever one chooses to call it, has loomed large and will continue to be hashed about in political and economic circles all along the Eastern Seaboard until a feasible plan is found to address abandoned vessels. We are grateful to Chris Waln for sharing his research with us. To access the Derelict Vessel map features, click Queries at lower right, select a county, then Search.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (http://myfwc.com/) as an excellent (not yet fully implemented) online tool (https://public.myfwc.com/LE/ArrestNet/DerelictVessel/VesselMap.aspx) for tracking location and essential information on derelict boats. For the Florida East Coast, when the underlying data is parsed it reveals:
66% of derelict recreational boats are Florida registered, and this percentage is slightly understated because the `Registration NA’ boats probably contain some number of Florida registered boats.
Of the derelict boats for which length data is available (87%), the median boat size (all types) is 26 feet and the mean is 27 feet (discounting an outlier). Two thirds are between 22 and 32 feet.
Across both registration categories sailboats account for 40%, cabin-power for 19%.
75% of the 170+ derelicts are in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Brevard and Broward Counties, but’¦
In Broward County 68% of the boats identified as derelict are in slips.
Most of the pictures of `Registration NA’ boats and many of the `FL Registered’ depict hulls so old that removal would entail little legal effort.
Caveats
The few commercial hulks, barges, etc were not counted.
The boat registration and length data is extracted from graphics files in the FWC tool by hand; there may have been a few errors.
What can we draw from this?
The registration data doesn’t support derelict boats being driven by out of state/foreign cruisers.
The size data doesn’t support derelict boats being driven by cruisers, period. Yes, we have taken over 500 and 1000 mile trips in a 23 footer (1976) and a 29 footer (1980), but what we see on the waters today is 35-45 footers. Although to be balanced, 18% of the measured derelicts are 35 feet or greater ‘” the same percentage as boats 21 feet or less.
From the FWC photos, the sailboats, with few exceptions, are not equipped as long range cruisers, they look to be local boats that were either uninsured or insured and totaled, and the local owners just walked away.
Broward County’s slipped derelicts should be discounted when talking about anchoring issues.
Money for removal is more of an issue than authority for removal.
Finally (well, that apparently never happens in this debate), we don’t like looking at or being anchored near derelicts or imminent derelicts any more than any other Floridian. We don’t like them clogging up our few and far between safe anchorages. We don’t like them driving municipalities to create maritime ghettos that wipe out those few and far between safe anchorages.
We believe the data above is a reason for the latest shift to attempting to ban anchoring on the basis of defamatory accusations rather than data. It’s pretty clear from the data, cruisers don’t come to Florida to abandon their boats.
Chris Waln
Derelict boats are completely different than cruising boats. It’s the difference between a car driving down the freeway, or parked at a rest stop, and one jacked up on blocks on the side of the road. I don’t for one minute believe that the people behind the anchoring restrictions can’t make this distinction, and I still believe the derelict boat problem, while a real problem, is being used as a smokescreen/false flag operation, for getting rid of non-derelict cruising boats that are messing up the views from waterfront condos of people who are used to getting their way on everything.
R. Holiman
Interesting analysis. I would add that another important factor in anchorage bans is financial. There are interests that think boaters anchoring for free are getting away with something and they should be forced to pay for the privilege. The funny thing in Florida is that this often involves creating a mooring field at huge expense that is paid for by taxpayers that then forces boaters to pay for moorings and marina space that even then is not self-supporting. The Marathon mooring field and marina only survive due to hundreds of thousands of dollars of taxpayer funds. These fields are not self supporting in Florida. I have yet to figure out why Florida mooring fields are so hugely expensive to construct, but the per-mooring cost is often four or five times what it would cost for an individual to put in the finest mooring set up. You would think that purchasing in bulk, etc. would save money. Someone is making money off of that aspect of this too.
John Kettlewell
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Jun 2, 2014by: Claiborne Young No Comments
W. P. Franklin Lock and Dam Park – Okeechobee Waterway
Back on 5/19/14, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net was privileged to publish a superb article authored by my good friends, Skippers Susan Landry and Chuck Baier, about mooring their trawler, “Beach House,” at the inexpensive wet slips immediately west of the Okeechobee Waterway’s St. Lucie Lock (the easternmost lock on this Waterway – see /?p=140813).
Later we learned that Chuck and Susan had found a similar facility adjacent to the W. P. Franklin lock, the westernmost Okeechobee Waterway lock. And, as you can readily guess, we asked them to repeat the process, and they have kindly done so. The story below is the happy result!
We are once again greatly indebted to Captains Susan Landry and Chuck Baier, owners of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com) for providing this superb, in-depth article and copious photographs! THANKS CHUCK AND SUSAN!
WP Franklin Lock and Dam Park
We recently visited the St. Lucie Park and had written about what a pleasant and unexpected gem it was. Imagine, then, our surprise at what we found at the WP Franklin Lock and Dam Park. It is the westernmost lock in the Okeechobee Waterway out of the 5 locks in the OWW. Initially we had thought we might go ahead through the lock and continue on to LaBelle. However, as we approached the lock, the wind began to gust and we decided it was time to call it a day. I had glanced over and realized that the docks were on the east side of the lock and not the west as I had originally thought. Also, they are tucked up in a protected basin and not right next to the river as the docks are at St. Lucie. We spun the boat around and headed for the docks.
A very nice gentleman, Walt Vliet, who was out for a few weeks cruise with his wife June, came to our aid as we docked with the wind blowing us up on the finger pier. No matter how many years of experience one has, it is still difficult to dock with a single engine and a good, stiff breeze on the beam. Once secure, we had the opportunity to visit with Walt and June. Both are about to turn 80 soon and have been cruising for years. They live in Hobe Sound and often travel back and forth across the Okeechobee on either their small sailboat or their Marine Trader trawler. They were a pleasure to meet.
But the real story is the park. It is truly a beautiful little place. The RV park and marina, situated on its own little island, is located on the northeast side of the river and lock. Slow speed buoys are located at the entrance to the marina basin. There are 8 slips here as there are at St. Lucie, with 4 being first-come, first-served and the other 4 able to be reserved. Very little wake makes it into the basin. Trees and a decent size picnic pavilion are very near the docks, and a short walk west past a number of RV sites, takes you to very clean heads and showers. Recycling bins are available jus t next to the trash.
In the middle of the island is the ranger’s office where you pay your dockage. (Again, the same as St. Lucie – $24 per dock including water and electric, or $12 if you have your Golden Age pass for those 62+.) Just next to the office the ranger’s trailer and little fenced in yard that houses her `babies,’ three small dogs. From there, turn and walk due south out to the lock and fishing pier, or turn north to walk over the short causeway to get some exercise or a different view of the island. The other, or west, end of the island has many more RV sites and a larger head and shower facility which also houses a washer and dryer. You can walk beyond that building and find another large covered pavilion at the southern end as well as a bench with a great view to the west.
If the docks are full, no problem. Figure out which direction you need wind protection from. There is plenty of room to anchor in the east basin beyond the docks, then dinghy in to the boat ramp near the heads and showers. Or anchor in the basin on the west side of the locks tucked up near the causeway that leads over to the island for great easterly and southerly protection. On this side, dinghy into the beach near the large trees just behind the building that houses the heads. The ranger is happy to have you come ashore.
You cannot walk across the lock to the other side like you can at St. Lucie Park, so drop your dinghy in the water and visit the beach on the other side as well as the visitor center. The only downside we can see is there are no provisions nearby, so come well-stocked and enjoy this little piece of heaven.
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Jun 1, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
A Tour of the Area around ICW/Savannah River Junction, AICW Statute Mile 575
Captain Jim Healy
Most of our postings dealing with Savannah speak of cruising west from the Waterway, up the Savannah to downtown Savannah, certainly a delightful sidetrip. SSECN Contributing Editor, Captain Jim Healy, gives an account of the areas around the Savannah River/ICW junction, including Thunderbolt and Tybee Island. Thank you Jim – definitely a good read!

Sail Harbor Marina is on Wilmington Island, GA. Their website is: www.sailharbormarina.com/
Enjoyed reading this post by Capt. Jim. We always enjoy visiting Savannah by boat. Bought our last boat @ Sail Harbor and had the yard haul and do some work after the survey. The bottom Job is still good now nearly 3 years later. Exceptional service and came in under estimate which is always good. Highly recommend their staff for repairs and service.
Sonny
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May 31, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Waterway Shoaling Headlined, Post and Courier, Charleston, SC
The link below takes you to an article by Prentiss Findlay, headlined in the Post and Courier as “Low-Tide Effect Grounds Boaters,” about three of our “favorite” spots: i. e. AICW Problem Stretches at McClellanville, Breach Inlet (Isle of Palms) and Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff. Every SSECN reader can confirm the troubles brought on by lack of dredging all along the Intracoastal. It is somewhat comforting that shoaling is finally making the front page of a SC newspaper. Will something be done? Keep watching your depthfinder and holding your breath!
http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20140530/PC16/140539917
Skipper Divers sends good news about funds for dredging:
This morning’s Charleston Post and Courier reports that Charleston County Council has appropriated $500,000 towards dredging the ICW at Breach Inlet and McClellanville. Here is the link: http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20140529/PC16/140529191
Tom Divers
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at the southern section of Jeremy Creek
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW North of Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Ashepoo Coosaw Cutoff Problem Stretch
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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May 29, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.6068,-77.23079999
Report from AICW/Browns Inlet Intersection Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 237

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Skipper Matthews sends a fresh report on a Problem Stretch south of Swansboro. The intersection of the Waterway and Browns Inlet has been the site of shoaling for some time, as well as a mysterious underwater hazard.
Prop-Eater.
Came through here on May 25, 2014 at 745am. This one spot is mentioned here as a problem. Most advice says `stay to the red side’ which I have during 4 passages without incident. However this last Sunday, going southbound, I passed a trawler going northbound a few miles south of this spot. Later on channel 16, I heard his call to USCG and his tow service with the words `engine runs but prop not turning’. As USCG was contacting him and asking him to verify his position, he did. N34,36.41, W077,13.84. The same spot.
There are multiple references which mention bent shafts and struts, and damaged props. Most shoaling reports merely mention that someone got stuck or kicked up some mud. This is one of the few that consistently mentions damaged hardware.
On a prior visit, I photoed a tug stuck here:

Notice the prop wash to the side. I hailed him but no answer. Saw him later heading south, obviously freed.

Ben Matthews
Came through that spot (Browns Inlet) at low tide with no problem. Draft 5 feet. May 30, 2014.
Raymond W. Smith – The `Firer Dog’
We went through the Brown Inlet area (marker 63) May 23 at near low tide with 10 ft at low tide. Just follow the marks. The problem is the temporary red and green are way off the normal channel and look like the are for a side channel. They are also in a straight line but they are for the intracoastal waterway marks.
Henry Booke
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Browns Inlet Intersection
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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May 28, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.0556,-77.92619999
Shortcut Tested, Snows Cut/CapeFear River Intersection, AICW Statute Mile 299

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This shortcut that runs northwest from the western end of Snows Cut to the Wilmington bound Cape Fear River has been a temptation and a hazard for several years, see /?p=105372. Skipper Matthews did not leave all his good sense behind, because he went slowly, kept an eye on the depthfinder, was able to do a 180 and escape the shoal. It’s a tough rule to remember, but all charted channels are not necessarily navigable.
I left good sense behind and tried this channel Memorial Day weekend 2014. It dropped to 3 foot fast! Was lucky enough to turn around and make it back to deep water after a good barnacle scraping. I draw 3-1/2 feet.
Ben Matthews
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Non- Shortcut
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May 22, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 29.8789,-81.32129999
New Shipyard and Marina Coming to St. Augustine, San Sebastian River, off AICW Statute Mile 780

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The San Sebastian River departs the Waterway to the northwest at statute mile 780. The new facility will be upstream on the western shore across from San Sebastian marker #20. Land address is 255 Diesel Rd, St. Augustine 32084. For the full story, go to: http://www.staugustineshipyard.com/
St Augustine Shipyard is part of a proposed Merchant Marine Community located on the west bank of the San Sebastian River, southwest of Historic Old St Augustine. In addition to the marina, commercial development plans include a pedestrian `promenade’ offering a variety of shops, restaurants and lodging.
The Shipyard Marina is under construction with restaurants, shopping and offices in various stages of planning and approval and is scheduled to open in September 2014.
Thank you for this wonderful service.
Ron Cousino
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of New Shipyard
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May 22, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 32.7941,-79.79159999
Shoaling Reported, Isle of Palms, Problem Stretch, AICW Statute Mile 459

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Isle of Palms Bridge – Click for Chartview
This reported shoaling lies north of Isle of Palms bridge in the vicinity of AICW marker #117 and is part of an area declared a serious AICW Problem Stretch in 2009. For a recent survey of the area, go to /?p=125717
Photo by Fran Lavigne
North of Isle of Palms bridge, SC. 3 boats 2 cruisers. 1 shrimp boat grounded in channel. CG in inflatable called me to assist. Our 42′ Chris. Frat. Easy Rider made it through barely. 4′ draft. Low tide now approaching Ben Sawyer bridge. Fran Lavigne.
Photo by Fran Lavigne
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW North of Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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May 22, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 32.464,-80.42139999
More on the Alternative to AICW/Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff Tested, off Statute Mile 517

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An earlier report recommended an alternate route to the Ashepoo Cutoff, see /?p=134342. Skipper Ross also reports on this slightly longer, but deeper water, with a warning about the southeast end of Combahee Bank.
Because we would have been at the Ashepoo Coosaw cut at low tide, we decided to take the alternate route out St Helena Sound before heading up the river beside Fenwick island. There is a spot where the chart is incorrect. Just off the ocean end of Combahee bank, there is a place charted as 21 to 22 ft deep. It is actually 10 ft at low tide. The rest of the charted depths are close to correct. Although this route is 5 miles farther, it is an excellent alternative to `The Cut’
Richard Ross MV Chez Nous
I second the above. You do not want to pass closer than 1/2 mile south of the Combahee Bank marker, and even then keep a wary eye on the depth sounder.
A much less stressful alternative to the cutoff at less than high tide.
Larry Shick
I should have realized when we first published the initial message above from “Chez Nous” that these good people pilot an ARGUS research vessel. As you will see below, ARGUS project leader, John Hursey, forwarded us this very useful chartlet, showing the soundings taken by Chez Nous. Note the color change in the sounding circles at the two spots indicated by the red lines. This shows soundings around 10 feet were taken at these locations!
Hi Claiborne,
This just in from M/V Chez Nous, passing southeast of Combahee Bank in St. Helena Sound:
Just off the ocean end of Combahee Bank, there is a place charted as21 to 22 ft deep. It is actually 10 ft at low tide.’
John
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Combahee Bank
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May 21, 2014by: Claiborne Young No Comments
New Video Shows Why You SHOULD “Do the Dismal”
PLEASE, if you have even the slightest interest in ever cruising the Dismal Swamp Canal AICW Alternate Route, follow the link below to see a truly amazing video. The talented sailors who put this together employed one of those new drones for aerial photography. And, in addition to the canal itself, there are some truly stunning aerial shots of our good friends at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center! DON’T MISS THIS ONE!!!
http://vimeo.com/94469647
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May 19, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Suggestions on Bridge Communication Etiquette
Skipper Chappell’s comments follow on the heels of a lengthy discussion on a incident at specific Waterway bridge. See /?p=120963. However, the advice offered would apply to any bridge requiring communication with a bridge master.
I do not condone any rude behavior by Bridge Tenders. I can explain a few things though. He probably turned the light off in the tender house to see you better. Also, bridges open on signal. You are required to request an opening via VHF ch9, visual signal, or horn (one prolonged blast followed by one short blast). Please read CFR33 part 117. Also, he asked for your boats name and homeport as required for filling out logs. Additionally, if he felt it was an unnecessary opening (again, see cfr33 part 117) there is a form to fill out for USCG action. Always know the height of your vessel and observe the clearance gauges. Know how to request an opening. Just because you show up at a bridge does not indicate that you request to go through. Frequently vessels approach a bridge, then turn around and go the other way, doing the tourist thing.
Dave Chappell
Dave makes some excellent points. I would add that you should use the VHF radio’“skip the other signals’“use the radio. I call even if there are other boats waiting’“I want to make sure that the bridge tender knows my intentions. Never assume the bridge tender can read your mind’“communicate!
John Kettlewell
One other point I should have made above is that 95+% of the time I have had no issues when passing through a bridge by establishing communication, following the bridge schedule and regulations, being observant of other traffic and conditions (like current and wind), and using commonsense. Yes, you do occasionally encounter a bridge operator having a bad day, but usually a calm voice, saying `please’ and `thank you,’ and using a little patience will make all good.
John Kettlewell
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May 19, 2014by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More on Mariner’s Disease – Mycobacterium Marinum
Skipper Hart’s comments refer to a report by Jim Bertch chronicling his frightening experience with mycobacterium marinum, see /?p=118638.
I went through merca with the exact symptoms of your marinum. Doctors were wondering until the culture came back. It entered through a fishing line paper cut just below my left pinky & went right to that middle finger and set in like concrete. Thats when the highly knowledgable Dr. McCallister of Panama City, Fl. started prepping me for my left hand to be changed forever but Doc finally nailed it after 8 days in quarantine & 2 surgeries. Can this come back as marinum if it decides to ?
Jeffrey Hart
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