Loggerhead Club Marina lies west and a bit south of the AICW’s marker #122 in Vero Beach, FL. Burkey Marine Group is out of West Palm Beach
Nice Marina great staff and big help from local marine repair firm Greg Burkey Marine aka bigdieselmarine.com
Ted Davis
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Loggerhead Club Marina-Vero Beach
“No charge” – sweet words to any boater! These guys are building a solid reputation, one boater at a time. Bravo Burkey Marine Group!
We feel the same way! These big diesel guys helped us over the phone telling us what to look for and once we located the problem they talked us through the repair at no charge. (After hours)
We are fans!
Ted Davis
We arrived in Stuart Florida with engine problems at Sailfish Marina and were told to call Greg Burkey Marine group. After contacting Burkey Marine aka Big Diesel Marine we were on our way soon! Happy to pass on the number to our community Burkey Marine group at 772-215-7663 burkeymarinegroup@gmail I feel safe recommending them!
You will think you are seeing things when this unmanned inflatable passes you. Wonder how it will deal with jet skis?
Google Maps Goes Coastal with Unmanned Boat
A new high-tech unmanned vessel, launched with the help of Google, will use innovative technologies from the boatbuilding and mapping fields to map shorelines and raise awareness of the impacts of global sea level rise.
Originally designed to be worn by backpackers, Google’s proprietary Street View Trekker camera system was provided on loan to the San Francisco Baykeeper organization, allowing them to create bay-level maps. It plans to use the imagery collected’”nearly 500 miles of coastline ranging from San Jose to Antioch, California’”on its website and for educational purposes. It will also help illustrate the threats posed by global sea level change to critical wetlands.
Electric motor developer Torqeedo said it was chosen to power the craft as clean, powerful and efficient propulsion was a high priority.
“It’s a Google Boat,” said staff scientist for the San Francisco Baykeeper organization, Ian Wren. The small, remote-controlled catamaran, a Wave Adapted Modular Vehicle (WAM-V) designed by Marine Advanced Research, features a modified hull design that flexes to adjust to the water’s surface and provides ultimate stability. Baykeeper’s WAM-V sports twin Torqeedo Cruise 4kW electric outboard motors rigged with Power 26-104 lithium batteries. The boat is able to run for hours with a nearly zero environmental footprint, thanks to onboard traditional and solar charging capabilities.
“A lot of people know about sea level rise,” said Sejal Choksi, an environmental lawyer and Baykeeper’s interim director. “We are hoping these images will really bring the reality home to the public, that they will look at pictures of places they know and say, ‘Oh my gosh, this is going to be underwater.'”
The Google Trekker, WAM-V and Torqeedo technology has also recently completed a mapping project of American Samoa.
‘¢ Google ‘¢ Ian Wren ‘¢ Sejal Choksi
We all know that California is sinking due to plate techtonics so do they really expect to sell this rising sea level due to climate change to non-Californians?
Not everyone in the world lives in California, David. Good try though.
The conflict between All Aboard Florida RR system and the Florida waterways continues to be a source of discord for spokespersons of both industries. Much discussion has followed the introduction of the controversial plan to increase the daily number of trains crossing primary water routes. Is this article just more political promises? It’s hard to imagine how increased RR bridge activity will not impact the flow of water traffic.
Florida officials vow rail plan won’t hurt marine industry
Posted on July 29th, 2015
Greg Stuart (left), director of the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., and Marine Industries Association of South Florida executive director Phil Purcell are shown at the meeting.
Greg Stuart (left), executive director of the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., and Marine Industries Association of South Florida executive director Phil Purcell are shown at the meeting.
U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., and Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization director Greg Stuart vowed that they will not put the marine industry at risk at a meeting last week with stakeholders in All Aboard Florida.
Representatives of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, the Coast Guard, the Broward County Commission, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, All Aboard Florida and Florida East Coast Industries also attended the meeting. It was held to get an update on the railroad test regulations being implemented at the FEC rail bridge over the New River.
Greg Stuart, executive director of the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, promised that his organization will not allow for the degradation of the bridge and the capacity of the marine facilities west of it.
`We recognize the need to improve it if we want to add more,’ he told attendees.
Frankel commended the Coast Guard for its efforts and vowed to stay committed to the marine industry and finding a solution. `I’m optimistic we can do it,’ she said.
The test regulations in place require that the bridge not be closed more than a combined 60 minutes during any 120-minute time period. If the test regulations are successful, the Coast Guard has indicated they will become permanent.
Coast Guard Bridge Administrator Barry Dragon said communication has been the biggest problem in the past and that the regulations, which require various means of communication, have helped the service get a handle on it.
A review of Coast Guard logs shows that since the test regulations began, the average time the bridge has been down is 1 hour and 45 minutes during a 12-hour period for 17 minutes each time.
Representatives from All Aboard Florida and Florida East Coast Industries, the parent company of All Aboard Florida, said their goal is predictability and communication. Starting in 2017, they estimate that AAF’s 32 trains will add 12 minutes to every hour that the rail bridge is closed between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m., totaling an additional three hours during the day, and that they will implement a website and/or an app that will communicate the times of the closings.
`We both want to grow and grow successfully,’ said Jose Gonzalez, senior vice president of Florida East Coast Industries.
They also discussed short- and long-term initiatives to move freight west to U.S. 27. The Florida East Coast Industries said eight of the 14 trains that run through the county, mostly at night, could eventually be diverted to CSX tracks. The MIASF pointed out that this would help car traffic, but the trains still would cross the New River at another point.
All agreed that during the next five to seven years growth in Florida, combined with freight and additional commuters on the FEC corridor, will require a second, higher bridge over the New River to elevate commuter trains, ensure predictability and protect the marine industry. Both the MPO and Frankel committed to finding funds for the bridge.
I believe Col. Sherman T. Potter of M*A*S*H said it best: “Bullpucky!” Yet again Florida shows its disregard for boaters.
Because of The Spirit of South Carolina, built by hundreds of volunteers and based in Charleston, tall ships are of particular interest to Charlestonians. One will not be surprised to learn of an invitation to visit Charleston being extended to Oliver Hazard Perry in the near future.
Maiden Voyage:
SSV Oliver Hazard Perry Sets Sail
NEWPORT, RI (July 17, 2015) ‘“ Rhode Island’s 200-foot Official Sailing Education Vessel SSV Oliver Hazard Perry sailed for the first time yesterday in Narragansett Bay after she left the Hinckley Boat Yard in Portsmouth, R.I. to begin a journey up the coast to join the Tall Ships Portland 2015 festival. Anyone on or near East Bay Passage between seven and eight a.m. saw a truly amazing spectacle when four of the ship’s 20 sails were unfurled, one-by-one as crew members climbed aloft to set free the lines that secured them to the yards.
Rhode Island’s 200-foot Official Sailing Education Vessel SSV Oliver Hazard Perry sailed for the first time yesterday in Narragansett Bay. (All photos credit Onne van der Wal)
Rhode Island’s 200-foot Official Sailing Education Vessel SSV Oliver Hazard Perry sailed for the first time yesterday in Narragansett Bay. (All photos credit Onne van der Wal)
Available for download in high resolution by clicking the photo
`This is a huge milestone,’ said Jess Wurzbacher, Executive Director of the non-profit Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island (OHPRI), `over the past seven years all of her movements have been under the control of tugs. The wind was blowing 12-15 knots out of the north to make it a nice downwind run out of the Bay, so it was great to watch the sails harness some of that power ‘“ it is what we have all been waiting to see for years.’
SSV Oliver Hazard Perry is the first ocean-going full-rigged ship built in America in over a century. She also is this country’s largest privately-funded, actively sailing Tall Ship, one of only 75 Tall Ships in the world designated by Sail Training International as Class A.
On July 3rd SSV Oliver Hazard Perry was dockside at the Newport Shipyard for the `Homeport Rhode Island’ gala. The annual fundraising event celebrated the unprecedented $16 million economic development project, which has supported hundreds of jobs in the Rhode Island marine industry. It raised $122,000 while also honoring the non-profit organization’s Board Chairman Bart Dunbar for his unfailing devotion to OHPRI’s Education-at-Sea mission.
cid:image003.jpg@01D0C0A0.EEAE3900
Supporters gathered at Newport Shipyard for Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island’s `Homeport Rhode Island’ Gala on Friday, July 3. (All photos credit Al Weems, alweemsphoto.com)
Available for download in high resolution by clicking the photo
With orange being the color theme, most of the 450 guests were decked out in their orange best. The signature drink, the `Dunbar Fizz,’ also was orange, and wait staff from Blackstone Catering sported orange bow ties. Cocktail hour included tours of the ship, passed hors d’oeuvres and offerings from a fresh seafood bar, while dinner was served under a giant tent with orange globe lights.
At the event, Dunbar acknowledged all of OHPRI’s supporters, and especially Admiral Tom Weschler, OHPRI’s Chairman Emeritus, who was in attendance, with helping the organization realize its dreams. `We are far from finished with fundraising,’ said Dunbar, explaining that the focus will soon turn to the ship’s Education at Sea programs, `but it is a huge milestone to have the ship completed and going through its final inspections and preparations for accommodating students of all ages.’
Rhode Island’s Tall Ship will serve the youth from all states with its Education at Sea programs. It is the first ocean-going full-rigged ship built in America in over a century.
The Spirit of South Carolina
This article comes to us from our friends at BoatNation.com.
Surviving a Close Encounter with a Shark
The best way to avoid a shark attack is to simply stay out of the ocean. On the other hand, it’s difficult to resist a dip in the water on a warm day. If you do decide to go for a swim, keep the following tips in mind. You may not be able to prevent an attack, but you may be able to minimize your injuries. Believe it or not, unprovoked shark attacks on humans are rare with an average of around 75 per year, resulting in about 10 deaths worldwide. You have a greater chance of dying from a bee sting or being hit by lightning.
Avoid being in the water from sunset to sunrise. This is when sharks are most active.
Avoid being in the water near where people are fishing.
Also avoid swimming during or after storms, which can make the water cloudy and churn up the fish that sharks feed on. They won’t be able to tell if you’re human or prey. The same applies to river mouths – where the water can be muddy.
Avoid peeing in the water. It’s not just blood that they are attracted to. Sharks are attracted to urine. A lot of cases of surfers and divers, that have been attacked by sharks, have been preceded by the need to urinate. Another good idea if you need to pee in the water, wetsuit or not, is to let it go in the white water. Action from the waves gives it a better mix, and it’s not as likely to attract the sharks nose
Do not swim if you have a bleeding cut or abrasion. Sharks sense blood and are attracted to even a tiny amount in the water. Sorry ladies, stay out of the water if you are having your period.
Don’t take your eyes off the shark. Don’t turn your back on the shark as you move. Remember, it’s important to keep the shark in view. Make eye contact when possible and try to keep your eyes on the shark at all times. Sharks like to attack from behind. Keeping your eyes on the shark may help to avoid an attack. In open water, get back-to-back with another swimmer or diver so that you can see, and defend against, an attack from any direction. If possible, Slowly back up against a reef, piling, or rock outcropping – any solid obstruction ‘“ so that the shark can’t circle around behind you. This way you only have to defend attacks in front of you.
Stay in a group. People on their own are more likely to be attacked than large groups. Don’t wander too far from the shoreline.The further you are from the shore, the further you are from help.
Choose your attire carefully. Avoid wearing shiny jewellery, because the reflected light resembles the shimmer of fish scales. Also don’t wear brightly-coloured or patterned clothing, because sharks see contrast particularly well. Special striped wetsuits which look like poisonous, black and white banded sea snakes are being tested which warn a shark that a diver or surfer isn’t safe to eat.
Stay still and remain calm if you spot a shark. Most sharks are just curious and will leave on their own. Attacks are very rare.
If you are attacked, fight back. If you are targeted by a shark, the general rule is, do whatever it takes to get away – but do it calmly. Try to fight back and startle it. The best place to hit is its nose. Also try to claw at its eyes and grab its gills, two of the most sensitive areas on a shark. Make sure you’re able to defend your front and sides and use a weapon like a surf board if possible, don’t use your hands. If you are bitten, stop the bleeding and get help as soon as possible.
Special thanks to George H. Burgess, senior biologist in Ichthyology at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Stay Safe and Happy Boating!
Ashley and the Crew at BoatNation.com
BoatNation.com was founded to offer affordable advertising options specifically for promoting boating businesses as well as private sellers. BoatNation.com is not only a comprehensive Boating Resource Directory, it also provides a cost effective venue for buying and selling new and used boating equipment, waterfront real estate, boats and much more.
According to this article from Trade Only Today, boats cruising to Cuba would find refueling difficult and only the basic facilities at existing marinas. Still for those of you with the craving for new waters and new ports, the prospect of taking your boat to Cuba must be absolutely mouth-watering.
U.S.-Cuban ties could be boon to marine industry
Posted on July 20th, 2015
After 54 years of animosity, the United States and Cuba formally restored diplomatic ties.
This morning, the United States opened an embassy in Havana and Cuba opened an embassy in Washington, D.C.
In truth, both countries had for years already been running robust interest sections in both capitals. Today, however, both of those missions were upgraded.
This afternoon, the Cuban flag will be raised on the grounds of the Cuban Embassy in Washington for the first time since 1961, according to National Public Radio.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will travel to Havana to raise the American flag at the U.S. Embassy there at a later date.
Starting today, U.S. officials said, the Cuban government will pull back some of the tight cordon of security that had surrounded America’s diplomatic mission in Havana and no longer will record the names of Cubans entering the building, according to CNN.
The Cuban and American heads of their respective interest sections will became charges d’affaires until ambassadors are named.
`A new stage will begin, long and complex, on the road toward normalization,’ Cuban President Raul Castro said in a televised address last week to the Cuban people. `Which will require the will to find solutions to the problems that have accumulated over more than five decades and hurt ties between our nations and peoples.’
The National Marine Manufacturers Association recently announced a third and final exploratory trip to Cuba, set for December.
Cuba has 11 million residents, and if it were a U.S. state it would rank seventh in population, according to the NMMA. Cuba has 1,400 miles of coastline similar to the Florida Keys ‘” if the Cuban Keys were superimposed on the Atlantic Seaboard, they would stretch from Miami to New York.
The NMMA said Cuba also has more than 100 freshwater lakes suitable for boating. Built by the Soviets from the 1960s through the 1980s, the 3- to 5-mile lakes irrigate rice fields and teem with largemouth bass. That means 95 percent of Cubans live within five miles of boating waters.
In December, NMMA export director Julie Balzano told Trade Only about the association’s second visit to the Caribbean’s largest island.
`If and when U.S. boaters would be allowed to go to Cuba by boat, I think probably there is enough infrastructure in place at the moment, though I think it would be basic for American boaters visiting Cuba,’ she told Trade Only at the time. `I think they struggle a bit with fueling stations in marinas,’ for example.
`Cuba, just the country itself, is struggling with infrastructure,’ she said. `If tourism grows, they’re going to struggle with hotel occupancy and eateries. It’s still a challenge to get basic items in Cuba.’
The island, though, has a lot to offer boaters in terms of its beauty. `It’s lush and green and mountainous, and the waters are crystal-blue,’ Balzano said.
Spoon River Restaurant has only been in business for two years and is open seven days a week. They are located just off the waterfront and are listed as:
Spoon River Artworks and Market
263 Pamlico St, Belhaven, NC ‘Ž
(252) 945-3899
And their Facebook address is:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spoon-River-Artworks-and-Market/471584979558789
There are several opportunities for dockage near Spoon River: Belhaven Waterway Marina, Belhaven Town Dock and Belhaven/Pantego Creek Anchorage. Our thanks to Skipper Whitehead for reminding us of this excellent restaurant!
We had dinner at Spoon River last night and it was undoubtedly the best meal we have ever enjoyed. The menu choices and the food are excellent. The waitstaff are excellent and well trained. All in all a very pleasant evening. I would give them five stars!
Carol Whitehead
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Belhaven Town Dock
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Belhaven/Pantego Creek Anchorage
Those of you who are frequent Lake Okeechobee Waterway cruisers are certain to have answers for Skipper Bill’s questions. Let us hear from you! USACE daily lake level reports can be found at http://w3.saj.usace.army.mil/h2o/currentLL.shtml. However, Bill’s questions refer to ARGUS soundings for Lake Okeechobee. See /?p=148612. ARGUS soundings are shown on all SSECN Chartview pages by clicking the ARGUS button at the top of the chart.
What lake level are the soundings in Lake Okeechobee corrected to, or what lake level were they observed? Since there is no `MLLW’ the lake level at observation or correction to the standard lake level is essential.
Thanks,
Bill
Hi Bill,
For Lake Okeechobee we get the daily lake level reports from the Corps of Engineers and refer that to the 12.5 foot average as used for the NOAA charts. Then we apply that difference to the soundings for each day. Please let us know if you see anything that looks odd though, so we can investigate and make adjustments to the process if possible.
Thank you,
John Hersey
SURVICE Engineering
The entrance channel to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Marina is found off Hawk Channel, on the east side of Key Largo, at flashing red marker #2 which lies west, northwest of Hawk Channel marker #35 off Mosquito Bank. Largo Sound Mooring Field is managed by the State Park marina. The most last report we have (/?p=136094) seems to indicate that Skipper Joe will be fine with a 4’3″ draft, but if you have more recent experience entering Largo Sound, let us hear from you.
I get a mixed bag of comments regarding entrance to Largo Sound’¦I will be arriving in Leopard 43 which draws 4’3’ Is it possible to enter into the Sound’¦would love to experience the park from inside??? I appreciate the help.
Joe
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Largo Sound
South Carolina is proud to have the National Security Cutter James make Charleston her home port. NSC 5 is named to honor Capt. Joshua James, one of the world’s most celebrated lifesavers.
USCG’s New Cutter Sails from Ingalls
Posted by Eric Haun
Thursday, July 16, 2015
The National Security Cutter James (WMSL 754) sails away from Ingalls Shipbuilding. (Photo: Lance Davis/HII)
The National Security Cutter James (WMSL 754) sailed away from Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division on Sunday, July 12, one month after being delivered to the U.S. Coast Guard, HII announced.
The new built vessel James will be commissioned on August 8 in Boston before heading to Charleston, S.C., where she will be stationed alongside Ingalls’ fourth NSC, Hamilton (WMSL 753).
“James is an excellent ship and another example of the outstanding work accomplished by our shipbuilders,” said NSC Program Manager Derek Murphy. “Through serial production in this program, each successive ship continues to come down the learning curve. The quality remains world-class, as proven by the substantial reduction in the number of trial cards with each successive ship in the class. Ingalls shipbuilders have once again delivered an NSC that will continue to protect our nation for the next 40 years.”
CLICK HERE for the full story from MarineLink.com
Skipper Lattimer poses questions that have asked many, many times over the years. See /?p=89755 and /?p=143206 for comments from other boaters. As to precedents for openings, emergency vehicles and vessels get priority. On weekends, it is normally water traffic that is heavy and the On Demand must restricted to openings every 15 minutes. During weekday rush hours, the opposite is true. And, as I understand from conversations with the bridge tenders, the old swing bridge roadway still serves a nearby school zone, requiring that waterway traffic be restricted for school buses. It is a tough job for the tenders who must rely on their on-the-spot judgement to apply restrictions.
Re: Socastee swing bridg . What do you mean `Opens on Demand’ Demand from who? Also, how many boats are considered heavy vessel traffic? It’s not unusual to have a hundred, probably a lot more, cars and trucks tied up when the bridge is open to `some’ boats. Which should take precedence?
Ed Lattimer
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Directory Listing For Socastee Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Socastee Bridge
What should take precedence, Ed, is the USCG-approved status of the bridge. The Socastee Bridge is NOT restricted, so by definition, it is “on request”/”on demand.” The “requestor”/”demander” is the pilot of the boat. Having transited the ICW on many fall/spring migrations, I have experienced all of the ICW bridges. At Socastee, I have had excellent service and terrible, disrespectful service. The bridge is unreliable, at best. The bridge operations staff is made up of people who believe in serving the needs of boaters and people who do not. The argument of emergency vehicle traffic or school bus traffic applies to every bridge everywhere. There is absolutely nothing unique to Socastee. The bridge – and the city that owns the bridge – should honor it’s commitments to waterway users. Honor them or change them, but none of this, “it’ll be about 15 minutes or so before I can open” nonsensical stuff.
Grassroots movement hopes to rid Boca Ciega Bay of derelict boats
Date Reported: Jul 15, 2015
Reported By: Mike Ahart, News Editor
A grassroots movement has started up around Boca Ciega Bay to help rid the area of its growing derelict boat problem.
How has your community solved or reduced its derelict boat problem? Citizens Against Derelict and Illegal Boats (CADIB) wants to know ‘“ and wants others in their own communty to help. CADIB’s mission statement: “To protect our waterways from the environmental and navigational hazards that arise from derelict and illegal vessels.”
According to Grant Bond, one of the organizers of CADIB, “We would like to learn from and help other areas that have been affected by this problem. We (know) our current situation in Gulfport Florida…about 30-50 vessels dragging anchors, half of them have no registration or no current registration. I have lived on the water for 3 years and have seen 6 boats wash up on residential seawalls, 5 sunken vessels sitting on top of protected mangroves in Clam Bayou and at least 2 have caused damage to city property.”
So far, CADIB has been keeping track of boats and registration, and members have attended city council meetings to help keep the issue in the forefront. If you would like to help CADIB on the water or with ideas, contact by email CADIBgulfport@gmail.com
“Join us in the fight to keep our waterways to their natural beauty.” Visit the brand-new CADIB website for updates.
CLICK HERE for the full story.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Gulfport Municipal Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Gulfport Anchorage/Mooring Field
Our thanks to Mike Ahart, Editor of Waterway Guide for this news:
Waterway News Updates
Florida East Coast
Has anyone seen this stolen yacht?
Date Reported: Jul 15, 2015
Reported by: Kevin Crago
Changes-Of-Latitude.jpgHas anyone seen me? My name is Change of Latitude. I am a 2002 Ocean Alexander 60′ Pilothouse Motor Yacht. I was stolen Sunday at 1:30AM from Harbour Towne Marina in Dania Beach FL. I am most likely in the Bahamas.
Please notify Kevin Crago, the Bahamas Defence Force, US Coast Guard, US Customs, US Marshals, or Broward County Sheriff if you see me.
Ed. note: WG has verified that this yacht has indeed been stolen. Information has been posted elsewhere on the internet suggesting that the boat is missing due to a repossession. The boat had been repossessed a few months ago.
View location on the Waterway Explorer
Source: Cruising Boater
CLICK HERE for the full story from Waterway Guide Latest News
UPDATE: The yacht has been located, no details are currently available. BOLO (Be On the LookOut) has been canceled.
Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, overlooks the westerly banks of the Mantanzas Pass channel, west of marker #13.
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina has been named to the 17 Best Resorts in Florida list by Traveluto, a rapidly growing travel blog. The resort was praised for its idyllic location, lagoon-style pool and waterfall, on-site marina, spa and tropical surroundings.
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina Recognized As One Of The 17 Best Resorts in Florida
FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla., July 9, 2015
Travelers heading to the Sunshine State this summer will find one more exciting reason to stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina.
One of the premier resorts on Fort Myers Beach recently made the list of 17 Best Resorts in Florida by Traveluto. A rapidly growing travel blog covering exciting destinations all over the world in addition to other travel-related topics, Traveluto searched the Sunshine State’s most popular resorts ‘“ from the Panhandle to the Florida Keys to the infamous home of Walt Disney World ‘“ to honor 17 must-visit hotel destinations in the state.
Situated on the beautiful tip of Estero Island, the full-service Fort Myers Beach hotel was praised for its lagoon-style pool and large waterfall, convenient on-site marina, spa and tropical restaurants, making it the ideal setting for spurring romance or making memories with the whole family.
In addition to the resort’s on-site amenities, the travel blog referenced its outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website. Pink Shell received numerous guest reviews raving about “amazing rooms with lanais,” “incredible views,” the “luxurious spa” and “friendly and accommodating staff.”
On top of making the list of 17 Best Resorts in Florida, the renowned Fort Myers Beach resort has been recognized with numerous awards including the 2014 Best of Weddings by The Knot, 2015 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and Hall of Fame Award. Pink Shell also was voted the “Best Resort and Hotel of Fort Myers Beach” by Fort Myers Beach Observer and “Top 25 Best Places to Tie Up in North America” by the editors and readers of Power and Motoryacht magazine.
Starting off with a single cottage in 1953, Pink Shell has expanded across 12 lush acres and features 213 one- and two-bedroom condos, each offering sweeping ocean views from sunrise to sunset. Though it has grown, been renovated and rebranded since the original beachfront property that first sat on the sun-kissed sand, the resort celebrates the memories that were once made on Fort Myers Beach while providing all the amenities necessary for friends and families to make new ones.
About Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina at 275 Estero Blvd. in Fort Myers Beach, FL is on 12 lush acres of sugary white sand facing the Gulf of Mexico. The full-service destination resort features 213 one- and two-bedroom condos, all offering sweeping ocean views. Additional amenities include a 41-slip marina, full-service spa, 3 heated outdoor pools, 2 restaurants, 2 ballrooms, on-site sailing school and water sports. For information, visit www.PinkShell.com or call 1-888-222-7465. Like Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Facebook, follow the resort on Twitter and add it to a circle on Google Plus.
About Boykin Management Company
Boykin Management Company, a leading hospitality management company with offices in Charlotte, NC and Fort Myers Beach, FL, is consistently recognized for excellence in delivering value-added lodging operations. Since 1958, BMC has been developing, managing and operating hotels, resorts, condominium hotels and conference centers. In addition to BMC’s long-standing relationships with the industry’s leading hotel brands including Marriott, Hilton, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Radisson, Crowne Plaza, Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn, BMC has operated numerous independent and resort hotels. BMC has managed more than 20,000 rooms in 23 states since its inception. For information, visit www.Boykin.com.
PRESS CONTACT
Ellis Etter
1-239-463-6181
eetter@pinkshell.com
SOURCE Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina
Finally!! But, sadly, not until October in the middle of the Fall Migration, as explained in this article by Prentiss Findlay in Charleston’s Post and Courier. A reminder that the tidal range in this area is 5+ feet, so high tide would give you 7+ feet. And, as in the past, we recommend HIGH TIDE ONLY through this stretch.
Corps has $2.4 million for Waterway dredging at IOP, Sullivan’s
A boat is shown stranded on a shoal in the Intracoastal Waterway. A local section of the waterway between Isle of Palms Connector and Ben Sawyer Bridge will be dredged to make marine travel easier. The federal government has appropriated $2.4 million for the project.
Some $2.4 million in federal funds has been authorized for dredging the Intracoastal Waterway between Ben Sawyer Bridge and the Isle of Palms Connector, officials said Thursday.
The section at Breach Inlet between Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island is only two feet deep at low tide. `It’s bad. It’s definitely bad,’ said Brian Berrigan, president of Isle of Palms Marina.
Work to dredge the channel is expected to begin in October, said Sean McBride, spokesman for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District.
`It’s our No. 1 priority,’ McBride said.
The waterway near Breach Inlet has been nearly dry at low tide because of shoaling, a condition in which sand builds up and blocks the channel. The authorized channel depth is 12 feet and the width is 90 feet.
Berrigan said word of the dredging is good news but only a temporary solution for a condition that is sure to happen again.
`We definitely need a long-term fix,’ he said.
Berrigan said transient boaters avoid the area because of the shoaling problem.
`It’s changing people’s schedules for sure,’ he said.
As a result, the marina has taken a tremendous hit financially. Diesel fuel sales are off 30 percent from last year, he said.
The City of Isle of Palms said the condition of the waterway has created safety concerns for boaters, particularly at low tide. `Boaters should use caution in this area until the dredging project can deepen the ICW,’ the city said.
The dredging is expected to be completed by the end of the year, the city said.
In the fall of 2013, a Mount Pleasant woman was injured on the waterway near the inlet when a 44-foot trawler drawing 3 feet 10 inches of water hit bottom. The impact caused her to fall backward and hit her head. In the emergency room, doctors determined she had a fractured vertebrae, a concussion and a broken rib. She spent two nights in the hospital.
Because of the low water, some boaters go offshore and re-enter the waterway at Charleston Harbor. The section of waterway has acquired a reputation as one of the worst areas from Virginia to Florida.
The last substantial funding the Army Corps received for waterway dredging was in 2009 through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Some states, such as Florida and North Carolina, have dedicated funding for waterway maintenance. The Florida Inland Navigation District collects about $20 million annually to pay for waterway maintenance in 12 counties. North Carolina funds waterway maintenance through boater registration fees and the gas tax.
Reach Prentiss Findlay at 937-5711 or Twitter.com/prentissfindlay.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
North Carolina, the southern most state in the 5th district, did experience a number of dislocated aids to navigation dues to the unusually icy conditions in the Waterway this past winter, as experienced by early spring migrators.
Coast Guard proposes to restrict winter Mid-Atlantic boat traffic
New restrictions for boating in icy waters are being proposed for the Mid-Atlantic. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is announcing in the Federal Register of Thursday, June 9, 2015 that it is proposing a Regulated Navigation Area that will allow it to restrict boat travel when water gets icy in the Fifth Coast Guard District. The district runs between Pennsylvania/New Jersey and North Carolina.
During most winters, the waters can become icy and hazardous to boats starting in late December or early January in the northern section; later in the south. Such conditions typically last until early or Mid-March. Under the proposal, port captains would notify the maritime community of travel restrictions via a variety of methods, including the Internet, broadcast and email. USCG will consider the type of boat when deciding whether to let it travel (horsepower, what the hull is made out of) as well as other traffic in the area, as ice can take a boat off course.
USCG has determined that the proposed rule would not create any major economic impacts because not too much fishing or recreational boating takes place at the affected time of year. It also anticipates that restricted periods would not last too long.
USCG has not scheduled a public meeting to discuss the proposal but will consider one if it gets requests. File your comments online by Oct. 7. Refer to Docket Number USCG-2014-0051. You can also hand-deliver or mail thoughts and suggestions to Docket Management Facility (M-30), U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Av. SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001; (202) 366-9329. Or you can fax comments to (202) 493-2251.
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters and the waterway environment. We are proud to have them as SPONSORS!
July 13, 2015
Dear Boater,
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is asking for comments on a proposal to increase the amount of ethanol that must be blended into the nation’s fuel supply for 2015 and 2016. If adopted, these proposed levels will require the use of a record amount of ethanol, forcing higher-level fuel blends (including E15 or 15% ethanol) into more gas stations. Remember that most marine engines are built to only work with up to 10% ethanol and it is prohibited to use gas containing more than 10% ethanol in all marine engines.
Please take a moment to send a message NOW urging the EPA to lower the ethanol mandates to ensure an adequate supply of fuel that will work in your boat.
Background:
The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is the 2005 law that requires the blending of biofuels such as corn-ethanol into our gasoline. When written, it was assumed that America’s use of gasoline would continue to rise and therefore mandated escalating amounts of biofuels to be blended with our fuel. Since 2005, U.S. gasoline usage has actually dropped steadily and now the law forces more ethanol into fewer gallons of gasoline.
To keep up with this mandate, in 2010 the EPA permitted E15 (fuel containing up to 15% ethanol) into the marketplace, for some engines. E15 is prohibited from being used in marine engines, snowmobiles, motorcycles, small engines like lawnmowers and leaf blowers, as well as any vehicle made before 2001. In multiple studies, E15 has been proven to damage boat engines.
E15 and higher ethanol blends fuel can now be found in 24 states, often at the very same pumps as E10 gasoline. The only warning you may have is one sticker mixed in with all the other warning labels on the pump. This creates a huge potential for mis-fueling and puts boaters at risk of using fuel that will damage their engines. CLICK HERE for more information on E15 and the Renewable Fuel Standard.
Thanks for being a BoatU.S. member and for taking action to let EPA hear how you care about the ethanol level in the fuel you buy for your boat engine. Help us out and please FORWARD TO A FRIEND.
Sincerely,
Margaret B. Podlich
President, BoatU.S.
We, not only as boaters but also as concerned citizens, need to permanently shut down this corn ethanol fuel boondoggle. Apart from its harmful effects on some engines and reduced miles-per-gallon, its environmental benefits are pure voodoo, and it serves only to enrich involved special interests at the public’s expense. BoatUS and the public need to put their support behind “The Corn Ethanol Mandate Elimination Act of 2015,”
4 years ago it cost me over $1000 to repair the damage that ethanol 10 did to the fuel system of my 1986 32′ Carver Mariner with twin 280 hp gas engines. It ate through most of the fuel line and the fittings and stopped the engines in a very dangerous spot.
It is time we quit supporting the corn industry which does not need nor deserve our tax money.
This ethanol industry has only created shortages and cost increases in our food supply for no other reason than to keep our demented elected officials In reelection money. WHEN WILL THIS MADDNESS STOP?
Have the courage for once to say NO!
Captain Dick Burkhard,
As Skipper Herl relates, Coinjock Marina, on the eastern bank of the Waterway, has been making and keeping friends in the boating community for years.
Coinjock NC
Another long but productive day, 8 hours. Arrived at Coinjock at 4:15. Left Dowry Creek this am at 8:10. really good crossing Alligator River and again crossing the Albemarle Sound, the hard part was the wind, it was behind us and we were going as fast as the wind, again a really hot day. Sure makes a shower feel really good. After sweating all day the shower is an absolute necessary. Otherwise you don’t dare get down wind of each other.
Coinjock, a great stop, one long dock, no backing in and the dock hands are special, no need to get off the boat until your ready to eat. They take care of all the electric, water, tieup, spring-lines, everything.
Another place we would like to stop again.
Phil and Sandy Herl
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Coinjock Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Coinjock Marina
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