This report comes to us from Dan and Jaye Lunsford’s log of their voyage through South Carolina, see /?p=145002. The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net has posted reports of shoaling in this Problem Stretch (which the ACOE terms as “behind Breach Inlet”) for months now. And, as the Lunsfords confirm, cruisers piloting craft of almost any draft MUST time their passage of these waters for mid to high tide!
SM 460 shoals before Ben Sawyer bridge: 4′ MLLW, so its really important to time the tides here. Favor the north side of the channel from before G117A to G119. Dan and Jaye Lunsford
Many thanks to Skippers Lunsford for providing very recent reports from six shoaling areas between Myrtle Beach and Beaufort. Three of these areas have been designated SSECN Problem Stretches and their descriptions are listed below. For a recent report on McClellanville, see /?p=144354 For a 2013 ACOE survey of area north of Ben Sawyer Bridge, see /?p=125717 For a 12/2013 report on Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff, see /?p=129101 For an alternative to Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff, see /?p=134342
Hi there. We just came through this area in the last week, a bit ahead of the pack, so thought we’d pass on what we found at the traditional trouble spots to help those who come behind us (a copy of what we posted on a couple of Facebook groups). Thanx for all you do. Dan and Jaye Lunsford
SM 349-352 The Rockpile: This stretch has numerous rock ledges on the sides of the channel so its important to stay in the middle. Not quite as scary as it sounds, but its the first time on the journey that the ICW is anything but mud if you do make a mistake. The ledges are very easy to see at low tide, and there is plenty of water depth even at the lowest tide. On weekends it can be crowded with power boats who may want to pass you if you are a slower sailboat and there really isn’t a lot of room to move over.
SM 430-435 McClellanville: Time the tides here if at all possible. If you’re really motivated you can tiptoe your way through; we saw 6′ MLLW, but so much simpler to just give it a couple of hours.
SM 460 shoals before Ben Sawyer bridge: 4′ MLLW, so its really important to time the tides here. Favor the north side of the channel from before G117A to G119.
SM 471 Wappoo Creek Bridge: This operator is REALLY a stickler for time; bridge is closed during rush hour opens every 1/2 hour during the middle of the day (check the complex operating schedule) but if you aren’t waiting at the bridge before the opening, the operator will not hold even a moment but will make you wait for the next one.
SM 501-504 Watts Cut: Although not listed as a traditional trouble spot, there are numerous shoals to 6′ MLLW along this reach. In a slow sailboat it’s hard to time the tides to have water here, and also water at the next trouble spot.
SM 517 Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff: Stay at least a couple of boat lengths off G177 at the entry (“square the corner”) for 10′ MLLW. At the exit, R184 was reported destroyed; a new temporary drop aid (floating can) was placed there on Friday — we met the Coast Guard small boat that was doing the work on their way back. Slightly favor that NW side between R184 and G185, but time the tides if necessary, we saw 5′ MLLW here briefly.
In honor of Halloween, we thought that this ghost story from Young’s Yarns would be well worth featuring here at the end of October. If you have not found them already, there are more Young’s Yarns to be found on our Homepage.
The Ghost in the Attic by Claiborne S. Young In my 26 years as a cruising guide author, I’ve had more than my share of strange happenings. None, however, have been stranger than what my first-mate, first-mate and I experienced way back in 1984 while researching Georgetown, South Carolina. Little did I know that this eerie incident would come back to `haunt’ me years later.
It was early spring 1984 and my first book, `Cruising Guide to Coastal North Carolina’ had just been released the preceding year. Emboldened by that volume’s success, I was hard at work on a guide to the South Carolina coastline.
As I do at the beginning of every project which encompasses a coastline unfamiliar to me, I had been reading all I could about the fascinating South Carolina Low Country and its myriad and often confusing waters. Good fortune led me to a wonderful book named `Ghosts from the Coast,’ by J. Stevenson Bolick. This volume contains many deeply absorbing ghost stores centered on historic homes in Georgetown and along the nearby Waccamaw River. By the way, if you are at all interested in South Carolina coastal folklore, spare no efforts to obtain this book!
I was particularly struck by one poignant and tragic story concerning a young girl who had lived in the most beautiful home on the Georgetown waterfront. She had fallen in love with the first officer of a ship which often docked in Georgetown, but her parents objected to the match. Being resourceful, the young girl soon hit on the plan. Whenever her lover’s ship was in port, and her parents had retired for the evening, she would place a lamp in the upstairs dormer window. The couple would then meet in the garden for a few tender but stolen moments.
Well, as these stories often unfold, the ship’s officer was lost at sea. The young girl was devastated, but continued to place a lamp in the upstairs dormer window every night in remembrance of her lost love. Eventually, following her parent’s death, she became a recluse, with her only companions being several beloved dogs. One day, alerted by the barking dogs, neighbors found her body, dead of a broken heart at last.
And, as you’ve probably guessed by now, it was whispered along the Georgetown waterfront that a light was still to be seen in the upstairs dormer window. The house was finally abandoned, and remained vacant for many years, but there were still those who affirmed the faithful light was to be seen from time to time.
One fine spring morning in 1984, my first-rate, first-mate and I came tooling into Georgetown. We had no sooner coiled our lines at Boat Shed Marina, than the cameras were broken out and we began avidly photographing the many beautiful homeplaces in the Georgetown historic district. I was particularly keen on getting photos of the house with the `ghost in the attic.’ The old homeplace’s position had been pretty well described in `Ghosts from the Coast,’ and we were soon successful in discovering the correct location. What we found was a beautifully restored historic home which no longer bore any scars of its long time abandonment.
Not wanting to trespass, we walked out on a commercial fishing vessel dock to photograph the beautiful house from the water side. Before we had snapped a half dozen pics, a very impressive grandmotherly type strode out into the front yard, and inquired politely but forcefully as to why we were taking pictures of her house. I made the mistake of telling the lady in question that I was writing a book about the South Carolina Low Country.
For the next hour and a half, we were treated to a nail by nail, board by board, discussion of how her husband had restored the family home. Karen and I were itching to be continue our photographic tour of Georgetown, but not wanting to be impolite, we heard the discussion through to its lengthy end.
Nowhere in this conversation was there any mention of the ghost in the attic. Finally, when all had pretty much wound down, I plucked up my courage and asked the home’s mistress if, `ha, ha’ she had ever seen the ghost. That 90 year old matron looked straight at me, and without even the hint of a smile, she soberly informed us that `when my husband and I first moved in, we used to see the light coming through the crack under the door leading to the attic. It used to bother me at first, but now I don’t pay it any heed.’ Even on a warm, spring morning, that pronouncement brought a chill to the air.
But, fellow cruisers, that is NOT the end of the story. I included a somewhat abbreviated version of the ghost story and our encounter with the homeplace’s owner in the first edition of `Cruising Guide to Coastal South Carolina and Georgia.’ As the years passed, and succeeding editions of CGSC (eventually including Georgia) were released, I always returned to that wondrous Georgetown homeplace and took new photos.
Fast forward to 1998, and my work on what I think was the fourth edition of my South Carolina ‘“ Georgia cruising guide. My faithful research assistant Bob Horne and I had spent the better part of two weeks poking our bow into every nook and cranny on the Waccamaw River north of Georgetown. And, anybody that knows the Waccamaw knows there are more than a few nooks and crannies along the water’s course. It was high time to spend a night with solid ground under our feet.
So, I phoned my dear friends Susan Sanders and Len Anderson, who at that time, had a shop in Georgetown named Harbor Specialties. In subsequent years, Harbor Specialties moved to Charleston, and eventually to Beaufort, North Carolina with satellite stores in Charleston and Pawleys Island. As usual, I digress.
I asked Susan if Bob and I could bunk in their spare bedroom that night, but Susan said she had something better in mind. `A new bed and breakfast inn is about to open, and while they are not yet in operation, the owner has offered to put you two up for the evening.’ That sounded wonderful, and so late that afternoon we came cruising up the Sampit River to the downtown Georgetown waterfront. I called Susan on the cell phone and asked where the new inn was located. She then asked me where we were. I thought that an odd question, but replied, `We are right in front of Boat Shed Marina.’ Susan replied, `See that big white house in front of you. That’s it.’ `Susan,’ I said, `you got us a room in the house with the ghost.’ `Oh, you know about that do you,’ said Susan.
So it was that we first met innkeeper Meg Tarbox and made the acquaintance of the Harbor House Bed and Breakfast Inn, hands down the most elegant and beautiful B&B in which it has been my privilege to visit. I soon told Meg the story related above, and learned that the elderly woman we had met was her grandmother, and J. Steveson Bolick, the author of the ghost story in question, was her grandfather. So, just to spice things up a bit, Meg put us in the two attic rooms.
Late in the night, (no kidding) I awoke to see a bright light shining on the bedroom wall. I remember thinking, `this is it, a life changing experience.’ Alas, though, I was not fated to meet the ghost. It turned out the light was shining through the nearby window, and when I got up and looked, I spied a shrimp trawler unloading on the waterfront. Several bright spot lights illuminated the scene, and this was the luminescence I had mistaken for the ghostly light in the dormer window.
Since that memorable night, Meg and I have become fast friends, and I’ve had the good fortune to spend many nights at the Harbor House. I still have yet to meet the young girl’s ghost, but every time I began to think it will never happen, I harken back to that conversation many years ago with Meg’s grandmother, and I can not help but wonder.
Claiborne S. Young January 23, 2007 All Rights Reserved
Please give a big welcome to Royal Marsh Harbor Yacht Club, the newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! RMHYC has already attracted a number of SSECN readers to its membership who report a wealth of activities through club membership. A wonderful way to get truly involved in the spirit of the Abacos! Be sure to tell them SSECN sent you!
RMHYC is a yacht club based in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, an island group in the northern Bahamas. Boaters, both power and sail, as well as land-based members, enjoy the gin-clear waters surrounding the Sea of Abaco and participate in many social activities. Year after year, members from all over the United States and Canada spend the winter at several local marinas and the pristine anchorages of the Sea of Abaco. Once you arrive in Abaco you won’t want to leave! Membership provides the opportunity to participate in incredibly varied activities and far reaching discounts. You may choose to participate in any activity or none at all, but nearly everyone enjoys our membership discounts!
The standard one-year membership includes annual dues of $30 and a one-time initiation fee of $120, which includes a Club Burgee, that will be mailed to your primary address. If a person pays between October 1st and December 30th, their dues will be considered paid for both the current and following year. For more information, go to http://www.rmhyc.com/
And on your voyage south, be sure to take along “The Great Book of Anchorages, Bahamas” by Susan Landry and Chuck Baier. See /?p=122059
Larry, What a magnificent “virtual fellowship” I have had since joining RMHYC over since I saw them as a sponsor of SSEC. I’ve not actually been to Marsh Harbor yet as I am still “caregiving” in Hampton Roads. However, several members including their very astute and friendly Membership Coordinator (Val Nucci) have included me in up to date information and engaged me in email conversation.
The Oriental area is home to three SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS: Oriental Marina and Condos, Oriental Nautical Wheelers, and River Dunes. Please say hello for us as you enjoy this wonderful Fall weather and the delicious buys at the Farmers’ Markets.
From TownDock.net The Oriental Farmers’ Market happens every Saturday on Hodges Street from 8-11a. Local produce, baked goods, artisinal work can be found there. There are also markets on some Wednesdays. Next markets are Wednesday Oct 22 and Saturday Oct 25. To find out what’s for sale, visit http://towndock.net/market
At the Oriental Farmers’ Market, the emphasis is on `local’ ‘” all of the items for sale are locally grown or locally made. The market turned 7 this year and it’s still growing ‘“ it now has two rows of vendors providing a great selection for a market in a town of our size. Stop by and see for yourself.
This very welcome information on the navigation aids in the St. Augustine Inlet and on area events is sent to us by our good friend and supporter, Port Commissioner Jay Bliss. During his tenure, Capt. Bliss has provided valuable and timely information on the St. Augustine area. Thank you Jay!
Greetings Port Observers, Selected proceedings at yesterday’s Oct 14 2014 Port meeting: USCG Chief Bosun Mike Tomasi reported our USCG has finally been able to allocate a Large LIGHTED RED channel marker #6 for the St Augustine Inlet channel. Until last Thursday, mariners entering our inlet at night had no red lighted markers, only green ones. Thus a few unintentional landings on Porpoise point over the years’¦. Your Port board approved $6500 for the annual Regatta of Lights, which the St Augustine Yacht Club organizes and hosts. This year it will be Saturday December 13th. This evening event provides a spectator draw that closes down the Bridge of Lions and packs the bay front with residents and visitors enjoying the boating parade of lighted craft celebrating Christmas holidays. Always you’ll find on the Port website a full set of the minutes of any past meeting! My commission with the Port expires 13 November 2014. It’s been a pleasure to serve. Two very able individuals, Tom Rivers (who has been on the board before) and Conch House Dockmaster Mark Helman will fill board seats 1 and 5. YOU get to decide the one contested seat 3 on your ballot. I’d urge you to vote for Herb Rippe. He brings balanced judgement and an even disposition as Chairman, an objective viewpoint, and is dedicated to the task. Our community is favored with a distinguished group of contenders for City Commission seats. We can salute them all, challengers and incumbents alike, for their contributions. That said, this voter prizes the organizational and leadership skills, the integrity, and the data-based objectivity that Nancy Shaver has already brought to our community. She offers her service as candidate for City Commissioner and Mayor. She has our vote. Respectfully, Jay Bliss St. Augustine Port Commisioner
This annual Thanksgiving celebration at Port Royal Landing Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is a perfect example of true Southern hospitality and of a marina family that cares about boaters! Port Royal Landing Marina guards the western banks of Beaufort River just south of marker #244.
The Port Royal Landing Marina will be holding their annual Thanksgiving Dinner. The marina furnishes smoked turkeys, just bring a side to share and your favorite beverage. Dinner starts at 1:00. The marina is offering buy 2 nights and get a third night free or buy 5 nights and get 2 additional nights free. For more information contact Capt Bill Mote at 843-592-3344, or the Marina for reservations. Everyone is welcome, come join the fun.
Here is a wonderful article about a wonderful body of water. This description of Albemarle Sound is sent to us by Joe Restivo, Marketing Representative for Scotch Hall Preserve, a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISER’ NET SPONSOR!
Cruising the Albemarle Sound
One of the gems of the Inner Banks region of North Carolina is the Albemarle Sound. This shallow coastal inlet off of North Carolina’s northeastern shoreline is in a unique place protected from the ocean by the Outer Banks. This makes it the ideal place to sail, cruise or fish when you just want to enjoy some calm, relaxing water.
The Albemarle Sound is never deeper than 25 feet deep and is between 5 to 14 miles wide. The Sound extends east and west for approximately 50 miles. This provides plenty of room for water activities, yet in a quiet, calmer setting than the open sea.
A Confluence of Rivers What makes the Albemarle Sound popular with boating enthusiasts is the number of rivers that branch off of this larger body of water. The Chowan, Roanoke, Alligator and Pasquotank are some of the most well known. While the Sound is connected to the salt water of the ocean, most of the Sound’s water is brackish or fresh due to the number of freshwater rivers that feed it. The Sound discharges its flow through the Roanoke and Croatian sounds, which then feed Pamlico Sound. From a dock in the Albemarle Sound, you can explore much of the North Carolina coastline and river ways.
What to Expect when Cruising the Sound Because of the protected nature of the Albemarle Sound, the tides are driven primarily by the wind. This means that the water itself has very little current. You will have little difficulty steering your boat where you want it to go.
One of the benefits of boating on the Albemarle Sound is its great expanse of unobstructed open water. This makes it a popular place for windsurfing or kite boarding, which requires a large body of water for full-speed sailing.
Fishing in the Sound Fishing is another type of water sport commonly enjoyed on the Albemarle Sound. If you plan to take a boat out on the Sound, be sure to bring fishing gear along, or you will be missing out on exceptional fishing opportunities. The brackish water gives the chance to real in both saltwater and freshwater fish, depending on where you throw in your line. Bass, blues, sheephead and flounder are all commonly found here, and the fish population is still quite high.
Whether you are coming to enjoy fishing, water sports or simply a quiet cruise along the water, the Albemarle Sound is a beautiful, peaceful place to play. Consider a visit to Scotch Hall Preserve, which sits on the shores of the Sound, and offers a plethora of upscale amenities and activities, including paddle-boarding, hiking trails, canoes, kayaks, private swimming pool, and much more!
Jekyll Creek is a perennial trouble spot and SSECN recommends mid to high tide only for this passage. See /?p=144628. Markers 19 and 20A are on the north side of the Hwy 520 fixed bridge immediately north of Jekyll Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! Our thanks to Skipper Reeves who keeps us posted on all things Jekyll!
Hi Larry, I have an update on the infamous Green 19 of Jekyll Creek. See pics We went to the markers and slowly went back and forth. Sadly we found 4 ft at low tide where last year was 6 ft at low tide. The channel is very narrow. Tow Boat US advises to stay 40 ft from marker. Sailboat in picture was about 80-90 ft off the marker and turned wide running aground. This was at 2.5 hours until low tide. Here is a suggestion going South stay centered on Red 16 and Green 17 then as you turn to South West line up 40 ft off of Green 19, put Green 19 to port going South. Call the Marina or Tow Boat US for local knowledge. Wait for rising tide that may run 7-9 ft in this part of the ICW near MM 685. Hope this helps. A barge dropped a fuel hose and dumped 500+ gals of Diesel a few hours ago right at the Bridge. Clean up in on the way but the current flow here rips and now diesel is everywhere. Sonny Reeves
And this report from Skipper Poovey:
Hey, Larry. Came through here this morning at 10:15 AM ( 1 Hr., 45 Min. past High tide) from the North. Stayed within 25 ft. to the west of marker G-19 and read 5.8 feet on both sounders. Bob Poovey m/v Threadbare
October 15, 2014 Sonny Reeves reports that another cruiser has run aground at Marker #19.
Here is an article that Waterway boaters need not read, because we are all very aware of the shallow waters in most inlet intersections along the AICW. Charleston Post and Courier writer, Prentiss Findlay, describes the problem in terms that non-boaters can grasp. Let’s hope some legislators are reading! This area north of Ben Sawyer Bridge has been a “SSECN Problem Stretch” for several years.See /?p=122253
Dry channel plagues Intracoastal Waterway near Breach Inlet The Atlantic Intracoastal 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, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The problem has been on the Isle of Palms side of the inlet, where only 25 percent of the channel had water at low tide in soundings taken on Sept. 11. The water there was only 3 feet deep. For the rest of the story, go to: http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20141009/PC16/141009372
Ben Sawyer Memorial – Sullivans Island Bridge crosses the Waterway just north of Charleston Harbor. The USCG has had issues with SCDOT bridge tenders “adjusting” the opening schedules to fit local traffic needs; see /?p=144631. Skipper Cummins submitted this observation from her recent experience at Ben Sawyer Bridge:
The information on bridge openings in SC is inaccurate for Ben Sawyer bridge. They only open on the hour between 9-4 not on demand. Patricia Cummins
And SSECN received this clarification from Officer Lieberum of USCG 7th District:
According to 117.911 (c) Ben Sawyer (SR 703) bridge across Sullivan’s Island Narrows, mile 462.2 between Sullivan’s Island and Mount Pleasant. The draw shall open on signal; except that, the draw need not open from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday except Federal holidays. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. the draw need open only on the hour.
I will follow up with SCDOT as well.
Michael Lieberum Seventh Coast Guard District Bridge Branch Bridge Management Specialist 305-415-6744
This expansion of pumpout services in the Marathon area is certainly good news for cruisers. Our thanks to Chuck Baier and Susan Landry for forwarding this article by William Axford in KeyInfoNet.com.
The city of Marathon is looking to expand wastewater services for boats by providing Monroe County with a location to receive vessel waste for the Middle Keys. Should a location be provided, the city will most likely be working with Key Colony-based company Pumpout USA, which is contracted with the county to remove vessel waste. Chuck and Susan The Great Book Of Anchorages Navigation Notices Our Blogs Trawler Beach House Voyages of Sea Trek
Marathon to expand wastewater services for vessels Boaters are not charged for pumpouts BY WILLIAM AXFORD waxford@keynoter.comSeptember 24, 2014 The city of Marathon is looking to expand wastewater services for boats by providing Monroe County with a location to receive vessel waste for the Middle Keys. Should a location be provided, the city will most likely be working with Key Colony-based company Pumpout USA, which is contracted with the county to remove vessel waste. At Tuesday’s city council meeting at the Marathon Government Center, council members were expected to approve a resolution amending the city’s wastewater utility fees and rates, implementing a $112 a month fee to dispose of waste at a city facility. There is also a 14-cent-per-gallon surcharge.
`The city is trying to make sure we have a way for vessels to remove their untreated sewage within the areas of the Keys,’ said Zully Hemeyer, head of the city’s utility department. `We do not want to discharge waste near shore waters because of the potential health risks. This is just another way we can ensure the water is kept clean.’
While these waters are way out of SSECN’s purview, we can sympathize, empathize, been-there-done-that and at the very least give Captain Viola a venue in which to vent his frustrations. And while we in the south have a number of mid to high water only stretches, New Jersey’s intracoastal depths sound much worse.
I know SSECN is devoted to the Intracoastal waterway and I am a staunch supporter. But a word must be given to we cruisers who ply Northern waters to get to mile marker #1. Specifically; the inland waterway in NJ. This inland haven is virtually unavailable to any vessel that draws more than 2 1/2 feet. The NJ coastline is a surly stretch, especially for late-season cruisers when weather from Long Beach Island to Cape May and the Delaware Bay whips up the Atlantic. For us, this waterway could be a lifesaver, but alas, it is not. The Army Corps and others have ruined a route that should provide safe passage, and good food, and great marinas. SSECN provides a wonderful service, but pity us who need to get to benefit from your efforts. Capt. Robert S. Viola `The Lady T’
I’m a NJ sailor. my 37′ Dockrell draws 4′ and I can go from Point Pleasant Inlet to Atlantic City inlet with no problems. I suggest to do in daylight especially in the Barnegat Bay, the Great Bay is excellent but the transition from Barnegat to the Great you must be alert, the markers zig zag but are correct. George
One can hardly fail to notice how many vessels – sail and power – have kayaks secured on their topsides in hopes of finding a quiet anchorage creek to explore. If you are one of those folks, this cold weather advice from BoatUS is for you!
NEWS From BoatUS Boat Owners Association of The United States 880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304 BoatUS Press Room at http://www.BoatUS.com/pressroom
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Photo Caption: Dressed warmly and ready for any foul weather, these paddlers are prepared for a safe day on the water.
For Paddlers, It’s High Season for Safety
ANNAPOLIS, Va., October 6, 2014 ‘“ It may be sunny outside with blue skies above, but waters are deceptively cold and unforgiving in the fall. For paddlers with just a few inches of freeboard to spare, getting wet this time of year can have serious consequences, so the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has these seven tips for fall paddlecraft safety.
Know how to re-board: All paddlecraft are different, so before you hit a lonely, remote stretch of river or bay, learn (in a safe place) how to get back in the boat quickly and efficiently as hyperthermia is a threat that increases by the minute. Some paddlers add extra floatation inside the boat as it can help reboarding. (Tip: this can be accomplished simply by inflating a beach ball or purchasing aftermarket float bags). If you do ever fall out and can’t get back in, stay with the kayak or canoe ‘“ it’s a bigger target for rescuers to see.
Don’t keep it a secret: Tell people where you’re going by filing a float plan. It could be as simple as telling your spouse, in writing, where you are going and what time you plan to return. Writing it down makes it become habit. Be as specific as you can ‘“ this isn’t the time to forget to mention you’re heading to your hidden fishing hole two miles off the beaten channel.
Understand the basic rules of navigation: You may not be out there with icebreakers just yet, but there may still be some recreational boating traffic and potential ship traffic. The simple challenge is the smallest boats are hardest to see. One simple tip to help visibility is to spray the tips of your paddles a bright color. Paddlers also can help themselves by understanding some basic rules of navigation.
Don’t leave without a bailer: With low freeboard — or the distance from the water to the gunwale — paddlecraft are prone to getting water aboard. Once it starts, it’s only a matter of time before your canoe or kayak becomes ever lower to oncoming waves. Keep water out and buoyancy up by having a bailer ready (Tip: tie one to each seat).
Thermal up or down: Neoprene gloves, a drysuit or wetsuit tops and hats are the ultimate protection in retaining body heat this time of year. However, have outdoor gear that offers versatility by being able to cool down or warm up when appropriate. Even if it may feel like summer, never leave shore in just a t-shirt and shorts. It only takes just a short change of weather or a dunking to drench you and the hypothermia clock starts ticking. A bright colored rain parka can also be seen at great distances.
Going remote? Go Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): Advances in GPS technology have brought down the cost of personal locator beacons, but if your budget is tight you can still rent a PLB from the BoatUS Foundation for $45 weekly, plus shipping. There are no additional subscriber fees and paddlers going to remote locations can order online at BoatUS.org/epirb or call 888-663-7472 (Tip: mention code `DISC10’ for a 10% discount on the weekly PLB rental rate through December 1, 2014).
Keep it secure up top: If you need to get your favorite kayak or stand-up paddleboard to the lake on your car or truck’s roof this fall, go to BoatUS.com/addingpaddlecraft for a quick read on the three basic types of roof rack systems and ways to safely tie down the load. Your kayak has no desire to meet the road or become a hazard for oncoming vehicles.
About the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water:
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by donations from over half-million members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), it provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America’s waterways and keeping boating safe for all. A range of boating safety courses ‘“ including 33 free state courses ‘“ can be found at BoatUS.org/courses.
Our thanks to Chuck and Susan for sending this notice of the re-opening of Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club. Open the link below for more on this beautiful resort.
For those of you familiar with Marathon in the Florida Keys, you know that Faro Blanco Resort has been closed for a very long time. It has been announced that the all new Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club is scheduled to open in December. The Great Book Of Anchorages <http://www.tgboa.com/> Navigation Notices <http://www.marinalife.com/navigationUpdates/index.cfm> Our Blogs Trawler Beach House <http://trawler-beach-house.blogspot.com/> Voyages of Sea Trek <http://sea-trek.blogspot.com/>">http://www.faroblancoresort.com/marina Chuck Baier and Susan Landry
Fort Myers Yacht Basin lies along the southeasterly banks of the Caloosahatchee River, between the 3rd and 4th bridges from west to east. We are proud that this fine SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR is offering their expertise and advice to Okeechobee and West Florida transients!p>
Hello to all of those transiting the beautiful Okeechobee Waterway. For current conditions on the waterway, please allow the staff at the City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin to assist you. We will be happy to provide tidal, lock schedule, weather and any other impacting information in order to help you make it through. We can be reached at 239-321-7080, yachtbasin@cityftmyers.com, llustig@cityftmyers.com and channel 16 when closer. We are open 8 to 6 and are here to serve you. Thank you, Leif Lustig, Dock Master
Notice of upcoming Okeechobee Waterway closures; Please review the tentative schedule for waterway closures to navigation which can be found on the City of Fort Myers web page at http://www.cityftmyers.com/yachtbasin, as construction continues on the I-75 bridge at mile marker 129. Thank you, Leif Lustig, Dockmaster
Notice of upcoming Okeechobee Waterway closures; Please review the tentative schedule for waterway closures to navigation which can be found on the City of Fort Myers web page at http://www.cityftmyers.com/yachtbasin , as construction continues on the I-75 bridge at mile marker 129. Thank you, Leif Lustig, Dockmaster
More Fun Stuff: With a name like theirs, these folks are bound to be fun to meet and share a brew or two with. They are primarily off-shore sailors, but they are sure to be able to offer wisdom about the Okeechobee and the West Florida Intracoastal. The Cape Coral Yacht Club is in the vicinity of the transient slips at Cape Coral Yacht Basin.
The Caloosahatchee Marching and Chowder Society Winner of US Sailing’s 2012 Outstanding Organizational Support Award The sailing club with the very unusual name formed around 1970 at Cape Coral, Florida, with sailors from all over Southwest Florida as charter members. The unique name came from an effort to make it forever obvious that this was not a `Knife and Fork yacht club,’ but a group of offshore sailors who wanted to race, cruise and explore the coasts of Florida, the Keys, the Tortugas, and the Bahamas. The name also describes the offbeat informal humor of the offshore sailor. It consists of folks from all walks of life who unite in their love of the sea.
Guests are always welcome to one of our casual monthly socials / meetings at 6:30 PM on the third Tuesday of every month (except January) at the Cape Coral Yacht Club, 5819 Driftwood Pkwy., Cape Coral, FL. (No dress codes here.) To learn more about CMCS, simply, scroll down on this page to view our online journal (BLOG). You may also go to About Us for additional links, or email us by going to Contact Us.
Our thanks to Skipper Dammeyer for sharing his experiences and advice with these two bridges in reference to an earlier report, /?p=125800. Wilkerson Creek Bridge, at Statute Mile 126, is generally accepted to be only 64ft and SSECN has recommended a low wind water level for vessels needing the full 65ft clearance. Fairfield Bridge with a vertical clearance of 65ft crosses the ICW at Statute Mile 114, west of the charted Fairfield Canal.
We passed under the Fairfield and Wilkerson bridges yesterday Sept. 29 and dragged our antennas under both. This is our third trip South on the ICW with our Catalina 445, with air draft of theoretical 63′ 10’³. We did several tricks to heel the boat over and didn’t do any damage. There are no bridge boards at Fairfield and Wilkerson was reading just below the middle of 64. We did not expect to touch Fairfield, but were prepared to heal at Wilkerson. Water levels are high right now so know your air draft and be cautious. Rick Dammeyer
And this Facebook local knowledge comment from Skipper Friedrich:
There is no lunar tide in this area, so you cannot plan ahead for low water here. The wind tide can be a foot or more. We have experienced high water here in Belhaven for several weeks. Dave Friedrich
I have seen as little as 62 feet showing on the board at the Wilkerson Creek Bridge, though that is unusual. If you need more than 60 feet it is important to measure your air draft over the water line very carefully, because there are several places on the ICW you may encounter extra low clearance during times of unusual tides or wind conditions. The good news is that the location of the Wilkerson bridge is very sheltered and you should be able to approach the bridge at slow speed and under good control. However, it is a long way back to Norfolk if you can’t make it, and it is not a good place to anchor and wait. It sometimes takes many days for the water level to subside.
Skipper Dammeyer, Just saw your postings on the Wilkerson Creek Bridge, not surer if you are south of Oriental yet, if you are here’s hoping you have a safe an uneventful journey without any further bridge issues, but if you are still north of Core Creek bridge; FYI….. went thru there twice on the 27th, tide board was reading 64′ on a still rising tide, my antenna also scraped and again on the 29th with 3 hours before high tide, was reading 65Ft., still scraped. also could not get under the Morehead City bridge as it was reading 63′ had to go back and go thru the Beaufort draw bridge. Point being we have had unusually prolonged high water for the past two weeks, from a steady NE winds driving more water from the sound creating higher “wind tides ” higher than normal, but as I saw today it is closer to normal water levels in the New Bern / Oriental areas, My mast is the same height as yours, and would love to hear of your “tricks” to heel the boat over to reduce the static height. Capt. Ron captnron14@gmail.com
NEWS From BoatUS Boat Owners Association of The United States 880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304 BoatUS Press Room at http://www.BoatUS.com/pressroom FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
Step Toward Eliminating Confusion and Introduction of New Designs
ANNAPOLIS, MD. September 30, 2014 — In a move that’s expected to benefit recreational boaters, on Oct. 22 the US Coast Guard will drop the current life jacket type code scheme — Type I, II, III, IV and V — that has been used for years to label and differentiate the types of life jackets and their specific use. Chris Edmonston, BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety President and Chairman of the National Safe Boating Council, said, “The boating safety community believes this move by the Coast Guard will help lead the way toward more comfortable and innovative life jacket designs, help boaters stay on the right side of the law, lower costs, and save lives.”
Explains Edmonston, “This is positive news is that we will no longer see a Type I, II, III, IV or V label on a new life jacket label after Oct. 22. This type coding was unique to the United States, tended to confuse boaters, limited choice and increased the cost of life jackets.” He says removing the type coding is a first step towards the adoption of new standards that will eventually simplify life jacket requirements for recreational boaters.
“This move is expected to lead to the introduction of new life jacket designs, especially those made in other countries as US standards will be more ‘harmonized,’ initially Canada and eventually the European Union,” said Edmonston. “Along with a wider variety, aligning our standards with those to our neighbor to the north and across the Atlantic will help reduce prices as manufacturers won’t have to make products unique to the US market.”
However, Edmonston cautions boaters must still abide by the current standards when using older life jackets marked with the Type I-V labeling, as they will remain legal for use. “We must continue to have a properly fitted life jacket for all aboard, and as always, you’ll need to follow the label’s instructions regardless of when it was made. Simply put, if you follow the label, you’re following the law.” A full list of the current life jacket types and descriptions can be found at BoatUS.org/life-jackets, and any update on new life jacket types and styles will be posted here when available.
In additional effort to help change the mindset of what a life jacket must look like, The BoatUS Foundation, the Personal Floatation Device Manufacturers Association (PFDMA) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), recently kicked off a “Innovations in Life Jacket Design Competition” to seek out the newest technologies and design ideas. Running through April 15, 2015, the contest seeks entries from groups or individuals, including collegiate design programs, armchair inventors or even boat and fishing clubs. Entries may be as simple as hand-drawn theoretical designs to working prototypes and will be judged based on four criteria: wearability, reliability, cost and innovation. For more, go to BoatUS.org/design.
10/2/2014 Further clarification:
A press release issued Sept. 30, 2014, “Life Jacket Type Code Labels Goes Away” discusses the US Coast Guard’s recent move to eliminate on Oct. 22 the familiar Type I-V code labeling requirements for recreational boat life jackets. Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) supports this move. We would like to provide some clarification and additional information to our original release:
–Type coding is being removed as a USCG requirement as of October 22nd. However, manufacturers will continue to use Type I-V coding until newer labels are designed and approved, and new standards are adopted.
–Removing type coding is simply the first step in a multi-year process, which includes designing new labels and developing new, ‘harmonized’ standards. Once that is accomplished, manufacturers will then be able to get jackets approved under the new standards. It’s at that point that we’ll see life jackets without the current type coding on their labels.
–Our friends in the life jacket manufacturing community further advise that 2017 is likely the earliest they could potentially see any new life jacket standards on production lines.
–Current life jackets that have Type I-V coding on their labels will be legal to sell and wear for the useful life of the jacket.
The original press release is here: BoatUS.com/lifejackettypecode
Thank you,
D. Scott Croft Vice President Public Affairs Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS)
About the BoatUS Foundation: The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by donations from over half-million members of BoatUS, it provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America’s waterways and keeping boating safe for all. A range of boating safety courses – including 33 free state courses – can be found at BoatUS.org/courses.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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