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    • Jan 19, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 24.5647,-81.8039999

      Proof of Pumpout to be Required in Key West, FL


       View In Chartview

      Key West – Click for Chartview

      Captain Landry’s comment is in response to an article by Gwen Filosa that appeared January 16, 2014 in KeyNews.com, Florida Keys and Key West’s Daily Online News. While the search for cleaner waters is admirable, proof of pumpout is often difficult to provide. The new regulation does specify “liveaboards” and may not affect transients. See /?p=131066 for an earlier posting on this issue.

      The [Key West] city’s Bight Management Board unanimously approved Wednesday a new policy requiring liveaboards using the historic seaport’s dinghy dock to show proof they are having sewage pumpout service done regularly. http://keysnews.com/node/52935
      Susan Landry

      I don’t have a pumpout log.
      A good time to sing the praises of my Nature’s Head. [Composting toilet]
      Tom Murphy

      This law raises a lot of questions. How are you supposed to provide proof of pumpout if you have just arrived from an offshore run from Mexico? What if you don’t pumpout because you have a composting head, an incinerating toilet, or use a porta pottie? What if your boat doesn’t have toilet facilities and you want to dinghy in? What if the place you pumped out is free, is not attended, and offers no proof of pumpout? Is an acceptable pumpout log just notes that the owner keeps? I had some friends who lived on a large steel trawler with a 400-gallon tank and they pumped out once a season or so, but usually they just headed offshore and dumped legally. What are they supposed to do?
      John Kettlewell

      Apropos to this proposal to is an ongoing discussion on Trawler Forum concerning a pumpout log requirement – or lack thereof – in NC. Got to: http://www.trawlerforum.com/forums/s27/nc-pumpout-log-13076.html

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Key West

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    • Jan 17, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      “The Professor” Sets Sail For Another Island

      It was with much sadness that I read the announcements below on the St. Augustine’s Cruisers’ Net (https://www.facebook.com/groups/staugustinecruisersnet/), about the passing of actor Russell Johnson, best known as Professor in the 1960s TV sitcom “Gilligan’s Island.” Like Captain Tarlecky, I think this show helped inspire my life to be associated with the water and cruising. According to CNN.com (see http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/16/showbiz/russell-johnson-obit/), Johnson, “died Thursday, his agent said. Johnson was 89.” Farewell “Professor” Johnson and godspeed on your journey!”

      Its with great sadness that I learned that “The Professor” from Gilligan’s Island has passed away. For me, I always thought that living on an island and inventing all kinds of cool stuff is basically what I wanted to do and this drove at least a part of my desire to get out on the water and explore all those little tropical islands and also develop a career at an engineer. So… thanks for all the laughs Professor.
      Alex Tarlecky

      A sad day for those who loved the castaways.
      Rudolph Andreae

      ‘˜My heart is broken’: Dawn Wells bids farewell to ‘˜Gilligan’s Island’ costar Russell Johnson ==> http://twitchy.com/2014/01/16/my-heart-is-broken-dawn-wells-bids-farewell-gilligans-island-costar-russell-johnson/

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    • Jan 16, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) Enforcement Officers Continue to Aggravate and Endanger Cruisers

      These three comments, originally posted on Cruisers’ Forum, http://www.cruisersforum.com/, relate more of the heavy-handed tactics inflicted upon legitimate cruisers by Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) enforcement officers, similar to the recent problems in Boot Key Harbor in Marathon (see /?p=129366).

      Florida Law Enforcement ie; FWC

      1/15/14 – While waiting on south side of Hallandale Beach Blvd. bridge on ICW in Broward County, Fl. I observed FWC officers holding posistion on north side of bridge in the channel for a good 15-20 minutes as I waited for an opening. They proceeded south and passed me port to port south of the draw. As I was navigating to go through the draw they approached my 32′ sailboat as if to tie up to me and ignored the shiny registration sticker posted on the bow as required and asked me if I had current registration. I said yes but you can see me on the other side of this bridge! Well they got their attitude on and said we dictate how this is gonna go! I said I am a vessel of limited manueverability and need to proceed! One of the three smarted off Are you moving? I replied yes and he said well keep moving! So they followed me through the draw and once on the north side they came alongside, tying thier boat to mine and proceeded to show me who is the boss. When I had to go into the cabin to retrieve my paperwork one of officers stepped on my binoculars coming aboard my boat like he was affraid I was getting a weapon to use to defend me and my vessel from their harrasment! So while seeing my vessel out of control with these yahoos alongside I had to back down to stay in the channel. Well they didn’t like that either! When they had enough goading me (was really angry and let em know it for putting me and my vessel in jeopardy) they finally untied their boat from mine but not before my boat touched bottom! I cursed those SOB’s like any proper sailor would and backed off the bottom into the channel an “steamed” on my way north bound. I called the Broward County main office and registered a complaint and actually recieved a call back from a Lt. supervisor who took my report. Now I know there are far more worse horror stories of abuse by these misguided souls but I am ex Coast Guard and tug captain now disabled and on a oxygen breathing tank… and really? WTF? What a state Florida (or this country even) has become since was a kid in “the hammocks” on the Matanzas River Peace be with us all.
      Woodymr

      Unfortunately, this is just one more reason why, once I get the boat I’m buying out of Florida, we won’t ever be going back. Way too many horror stories about the FWC.
      Kevin84

      Hey, I had an FWC officer caution me about me Tartan 33 throwing an excessive wake. Keep in mind, my aging T-33 has an original engine, so we never turn over 2500. When I asked if he was joking, I got “the stare”. Dropped her to 2300 rpm.

      I have a deep respect for all LEOs. But some seem to have suffered greatly from the closing of so many donut shops.
      Snore

      IMPORANT update as of 1/17/14
      Frequent SSECN contributors, Captains Susan Landry and Chuck Baier, owners of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com) have chimed in with a strong note sent to Mike Troelstrup, FWC Inspector General. Both Chuck and Susan’s original message and Mr. Troelstrup’s reply appear below:

      Mr. Troelstrup, I have to wonder if you or anyone at the FWC has an idea as to how negative the actions of some FWC Officers are being viewed by the public. With the advent of the internet, missteps and abuse by your Officers quickly spread through out the country at lightning speed. I would suggest you give a close look at these two reports found on Claiborne Young’s website Cruiser’s Net. These reports are now also found on several other boating websites. The reports can be viewed here, /florida-law-enforcement-continues-to-aggravate-and-endanger-boaters/ and here, /129366/.
      Cruiser’s Net is a very popular website visited by virtually millions of boaters each year. The common response to these kinds of reports are that Florida appears to be a boater unfriendly state and that many boaters will take their boats and the dollars they might have spent elsewhere. I can’t imagine that any state that so depends on tourism would want to perpetuate this kind of image. Perhaps someone could look int these practices and consider additional training for your on the water Officers. Sincerely,
      Chuck Baier

      Mr. Baier,
      I am very appreciative of your email. I was unaware of this website and now have it bookmarked. I will also pass this on to my Director of Investigations, Amy Schmidt.
      In response to Boot Key, we are aware of all the concerns and are monitoring this closely. It is my understanding that the regional office is trying to resolve these concerns which I fully support as the first step. We will follow-up on the status of this situation.
      Thank you again for the information and always feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.
      Respectfully,
      Mike
      Mike Troelstrup
      FWC Inspector General
      620 S. Meridian St
      Tallahassee, Fl
      Mike.Troelstrup@MyFWC.com
      (850)488-6068

      This addendum just received this morning, 1/18/14, from Captain Chuck Baier:

      Claiborne,
      There is a contact for reporting abuse or complaints against an FWC Officer The email contact is Mike Troelstrup, Inspector General at Mike.Troelstrup@MyFWC.com . I would urge anyone that considers an interaction from any FWC Officer less than professional, to report the incident.
      Chuck

      And, fellow nautical author, Captain Wally Moran, has sent this e-mail to the FWC Inspector General, and copies the SSECN:

      Dear Sir:
      I have just read a letter to you from Chuck Baier that was published in the Salty Southeast Cruisers Net, plus your reply to same (/florida-law-enforcement-continues-to-aggravate-and-endanger-boaters/). I have also read there, and elsewhere, of the problems in Marathon.
      I want you to realize that I, and other boating journalists, are watching this situation closely. If situations such as this are not dealt with properly and the bully tactics of your officers are not restrained, you can expect to start seeing articles both online and in print about the behaviour of your officers.
      As the son of a lifetime LEO, I regret having to even say these things to you. It should never be necessary.
      Sincerely,
      W. Moran

      And, reaction from the cruising community:

      Having made two cruises to Florida, I will probably not return. I cannot see why so many go there, when Florida seems to be doing everything it can to be hostile to cruisers.
      Norman Mason
      Norfolk, VA

      It seems that we, the cruising community, are seen as non conformists whose attitudes about freedom and autonomy are dangerous to the post 9/11 security folk. Well, too bad. We are who and what we are, and we will not put up with a police state on the water.
      Rick Cass

      I have had to meetings with the above. one at fort jefferson which was very nice, and another in pelican bay in charlotte harbour which reminded me of the gestapo
      nick chavasse. sv war depart.

      Claiborne, There is a contact for reporting abuse or complaints against an FWC Officer The email contact is Mike Troelstrup, Inspector General at Mike.Troelstrup@MyFWC.com . I would urge anyone that considers an interaction from any FWC Officer less than professional, to report the incident.
      Chuck Baier

      As an interesting contrast; on our last cruise through Florida in April, we were boarded at 04:00 (while underway) by the USCG for a random safety inspection. The inspection team was thorough, polite and efficient. They treated all aboard with respect, went through the boat and the paperwork, and handled the boarding and disembark process like the pros they were. Role models for the FFWC team.
      John Martis

      If the FWC and indeed any other Government authority concerned about the health, safety and enjoyment of it’s citizens and visitors what we would be reading in these instances, is `welcome to our wonderful waterways’ and then links to various sites which explain things to do and where help is available. That is what I believed we paid taxes for, if these agencies are doing the opposite then they should be re worked or disbanded.
      It appears to me that Government has now been given blanket authority to dictate our actions according to their wishes, in other word, Government by Government not by the people. If I am wrong I would like to see the proof.
      Dennis McMurtry

      Claiborne,
      Have read about the FWC harassment of boaters in Florida. I do not think that writing the agency head will make any difference in the behavior of the officers.
      So, I wrote the Governor. As a life-long Florida resident, maybe my words will hold some impact. There is an election coming up.
      Will let you know if I get a response that address the concern, or whether only a canned response it given.
      Glen

      Here is the content of Glen’s letter to Governor Scott:

      Governor Scott,
      I am a native Floridian who is becoming increasingly embarrassed about the way the State of Florida treats my friends who come to Florida to visit.
      We have cruised on our boat through over 20 states and Canada. We have been welcomed in every place we have visited by government agencies and people who live along the water or who choose to travel on the water. Contacts with these people have created lasting friendships and an easy acceptance into the close-knit community of boaters.
      Florida’s image has suffered in recent years over the way local law enforcement has interacted in often negative ways with cruising boaters over enforcement of anchoring ordinances. For years, these ordinances were in violation of state law. A Florida resident boater felt it necessary to violate a local ordinance, subject himself to arrest, and spend months going through the court process to have the state courts tell the local governments what the state agencies should have, and could have easily, done themselves ‘“ the local anchoring ordinances were not legal. This long process has given Florida a negative image for years.
      Now, an agency of the State of Florida is harassing people who choose to visit the state by boat. These cruising boaters often come to Florida for months, spending their money in Florida communities as they travel our coasts. They support a large marine industry, important to the economy of Florida. To harass these visitors through the improper actions of a state law enforcement agency will negatively affect Florida’s tourism and economy.
      The officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have been harassing cruising boaters in many areas of the state. Those on the water want to be good citizens, following appropriate procedures and treating the waterways in responsible manner. After all, this is their home and they want to protect it and travel in ways respectful to others. They expect to encounter law enforcement offers along the water who have the responsibility of enforcing local and state laws. They don’t expect to be treated with disrespect and actually be endangered in their navigation by these agents of the state.
      The internet has improved communications greatly. Below are links to some statements by cruising boaters describing the harassment they have experienced. This is only one site of many who have been reporting about the improper actions of Florida law enforcement.
      /florida-law-enforcement-continues-to-aggravate-and-endanger-boaters/
      /129366/
      Governor Scott, you have pledged to improve the economy of the State of Florida. The actions of the FWC are having a negative effect.
      Glen Moore

      Here is the Governor’s response to Glen’s letter:
      The response from the Governor’s Office is below. Not an answer, only an acknowledgement of receipt.
      Glen Moore
      Governor Rick Scott Rick.Scott@eog.myflorida.com
      11:34 AM (50 minutes ago) to me, Sunburst
      Thank you for contacting Governor Rick Scott regarding your concerns regarding the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Governor appreciates your concerns and asked that I respond on his behalf.
      Governor Scott wants to know how people feel about the many critical issues we face. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is the agency with the primary responsibility of managing fish and wildlife
      resources for their long-term well-being.
      To ensure they are aware of your concerns, I forwarded a copy of your email to the Commission for their review. If you wish to contact them directly, contact information is provided below.
      Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
      620 South Meridian Street
      Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600
      (850) 488-4676
      www.myfwc.com/
      Thank you again for taking the time to contact Governor Scott.
      Sincerely,
      Kelly Pacchioli
      Office of Citizen Services
      Executive Office of the Governor

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Michael Holmes -  February 7, 2016 - 9:44 am

        Lack of favorable discretion is a problem. Ever since Florida made a fishing license mandatory the FWC personnel have increased. We do need enforcement for Florida waters. FWC in the Florida keys has been harsh at times and unjustified. I have lived and fished here all my life. I am retired law enforcement and know there is a code of conduct for all state certified Officers. The Florida Highway Patrol is now and always have been a professional state agency that would not tolerate the accusation against FWC. Bottom line is you don’t have to issue citations for every violation. Most FWC Officers are just and courteous. As always there are a few that have not been fired yet. No law enforcement likes complaints justified or not. Fact is if we did not have FWC there would be no desirable fish left in Florida within two years.

        Reply to Michael
      2. Lee Starling -  January 25, 2015 - 10:05 am

        predatory practices by FWCC toward boaters in Key West
        Being shadowed by a boat with no lights while underway to the dock at sunset is unnerving , but when it turns out to be FWCC , it is worse.
        Now pulled over by FWCC, they mention running lights so I mention the sunglasses they still have on. No matter that it is literally moments after sunset. Their intention is to write a citation and generate income for FWCC and at the moment I have become that revenue resource.
        Minor infractions that should warrant a verbal warning are tickets.
        Worse yet , a few weeks later I receive a certified letter from FWCC .
        Inside, a citation for a non operational anchor light , which was issued in my absence from the vessel. It was issued at 6:32 , just after sunset when the ambient light was bright enough to keep the photo cell on my Davis auto anchor light from activating. This anchor light is an industry standard and turns on and off automatically . My vessel was not anchored in State waters but Navy bay bottom and not in navigable waters.
        I have lost any respect for the newly inducted Officers, as they lack the skills necessary to gain the confidence of the Citizens and form relationships that would benefit the FWCC and boating community. Older Veteran Officers do not operate in this manner and know that it creates animosity and results in the boating community not helping FWCC in investigations of serious violations due to bad experiences and distrust.
        FWCC wonders why the boating community doesn’t trust them , and refuses to cooperate . This is one example of their perception of boaters as a income revenue resource.

        Reply to Lee
    • Jan 15, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Take Action to Reduce the Ethanol Requirement – Submit Your Comments!

      This Nation Marine Manufacturers Association (http://www.nmma.org) Action Alert regarding ethanol went out to NMMA members this Wednesday. Last month, NMMA testified before the EPA explaining the unintended dangers of the Renewable Fuel Standard and its impact on the marine industry. NMMA will also be submitting written comments this month. But our voices, our opinions and our comments are critical to our overall success.

      If you want the EPA to reduce the ethanol mandate, to modify the RFS and protect marine engines, then you must speak up! A format to submit your comments is contained in the following link: http://hd.nmma.org/t/88183/2164904/14107/7/

      It is past time to terminate the negative effects of ethanol/gas mixtures. E-10 has endangered American boaters and their families, required costly repairs and modifications to boats and boat engines and befits the widespread label of `The Ethanol Fraud.’ The taxpayer forced subsidy is not only unjustified and unsustainable, it discriminates against those who must pay premium prices to locate and purchase non-ethanol fuel to protect their assets and families from the harmful results of ethanol in motor fuels.
      Frank Leggett

      The EPA must be bought and sold by Monsanto. It’s clear the Ethanol pollutes more than gasoline. Ethanol harms engines and fuel tanks. It breaks down quickly releasing water into the bottom of fuel tanks where the water causes corrosion. This edict of 15% will also cause a major disruption in marina businesses and break the backs of boater’s budgets.
      Rudolph Andreae

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    • Jan 15, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Hawk Channel Plagued with Crab Pots between Rodriguez Key and Marathon, FL

      In response to reports of numerous crab pots in the west side approach to Marathon (/?p=131869), Captain Lindberg’s remarks refer to 50 statute miles of the Hawk Channel between Rodriguez Key, just north of Key Largo at mile 1145, and Marathon at statute mile 1195.

      We just came back from sailing Fort Lauderdale to Boca Chica and back 12/23/13-1/3/14. The pots were so bad between Rodriguez Key and Marathon that we had to drop sails and motor. We had planned on putting out two fishing lines, however it was impossible with all the pots.
      Brenda Lindberg

      This was our experience as well during the week of January 6th, 2014.
      Be Aware and Careful !
      DeeDee Lisenby

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    • Jan 14, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Recent Passage through Snake Creek Bridge and Overhead Powerline Clearance

      Snake Creek Bridge - Click for Chartview

      Snake Creek is the northernmost (and easternmost) channel in the Florida Keys that provides reasonably reliable access from the Florida Keys Inside (Florida Bay) Route to Hawk Channel, or the other way around. Several earlier articles here on the Cruisers’ Net, as well as my own soundings, indicate that MLW soundings on the extreme Hawk Channel end of the Snake Creek channel, have risen to 5-foot levels.
      Snake Creek, is one of only three passages (the other two being Channel Five and Moser Channel) between Miami and Big Pine Key that cruisers can (reliably) use to cruise between the inside and outside Florida Keys routes.
      So, timely operation of the bascule bridge crossing Snake Creek is an important consideration for cruisers. Below, Captain Dennis found the bridge tender a bit balky, and he also comments on some nearby powerlines.

      I just went through Snake Creek bridge yesterday in a Hunter 285. They publish that they open on demand other then restricted hours. They have change the restricted hours a couple times in the recent past so I won’t quote those hours now, but during the restricted hours they still open on the hour and on the half hour when requested. After just missing the 10:00 am opening, when we could not get a response on the VHF radio from the bridge attendant, we whistled for passing at 1030 at 11 and again at 1130 before we finally got an opening. The bridge attendant’s phone number is 305-664-3632. the mast on our hunter is 44 and a half feet above the water. I estimate that we cleared the power lines by 6-10′ so your 70′ stick is way too high. I tried to call just to see for cities reference, but all I got was a recording.
      Capt Dennis with Sailshare

      We went through the snake creek channel twice in a leopard 46 with a 70′ mast without incident. The lower wires are telephone and data cables. This was done in Feb 2011.
      T. Macpherson

      We have taken a 50′ Prout 3 1/2′ draft with 70′ bridge clearance under the Snake creek bridge wires at low tide. The bridge tenders said we were pretty close to the lowest wires, maybe within a foot or two.
      Captain Harold Ochstein

      January 14, 2014
      We took 42ft cat through Snake Creek 12/30/13 ‘“ Took it on rising tide with no issues, except ‘“ bridge tender would not respond. After waiting 15min and requesting response again, then waiting another 15min requesting response, another captain came on and said he was waiting also and that bridge would open at 4. It did open at 4pm, however no response what so ever from bridge tender. I asked some of the locals at fuel dock, and they indicated this was pretty common complaint.
      Brenda & George Lindberg

      Don’t know why they have not replaced that bridge yet. I lived in the Keys in the 80’s and 90’s and that bridge was stuck in the up position more than twice that I can remember. Great for the boaters, but once it was stuck for over 24 hours. Hundreds of people south were stuck, missed flights and also the nearest hospital was in Marathon. Monroe County needs to hire more friendly people as bridge tenders.
      Frank Collins

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Snake Creek

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    • Jan 14, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Web Cams Up and Running in Flagler County, FL, AICW Between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach

      Flagler County, south of St. Augustine, and north of Daytona Beach, now boasts eight live webcams along the Waterway as it flows flows through this county. These sites also include current weather conditions.
      To view these sites go to:
      http://www.palmcoastandtheflaglerbeaches.com/where-we-are/webcams-weather.stml

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Allen Walker -  July 23, 2017 - 3:59 pm

        Most of the cams have been off line for over a year… called them and all they can say it’s the CATV company’s problem…

        Reply to Allen
    • Jan 14, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      NOAA Announces The Magenta Line will Stay, and (Hopefully) Be Improved

      Back on 10/2/13, the SSECN, as well as many other nautical publications, reported that the NOAA charting folks were seriously considering doing away with the infamous “magenta line,” which is supposed, but often does not, mark the route to keep to the best depths on the AICW, and other USA Waterways (see /?p=124482). In fact, it seemed like an almost “done deal” that the line was going to disappear from future editions of NOAA charts.
      Not so fast. The cruising community responded with a barrage of e-mails to NOAA, and, today (1/14/14) it was announced that the magenta line was not only going to be retained, but an effort was going to be made to relocate it to better indicate where the best depths are to be found. Here is an excerpt from the NOAA announcement:

      NOAA Coast Survey to improve `magenta line’ on Intracoastal Waterway nautical charts
      The Office of Coast Survey announced today that future editions of nautical charts of the Intracoastal Waterway will be updated to include an improved `magenta line’ that has historically aided navigation down the East Coast and around the Gulf Coast. Additionally, Coast Survey will change the magenta line’s function, from the perceived `recommended route’ established more than a hundred years ago, to an advisory directional guide that helps prevent boaters from going astray in the maze of channels that comprise the route.
      The decision comes on the heels of a year’s investigation into problems with the magenta line. In early 2013, after receiving reports of groundings by boaters who followed the line into shoals, Coast Survey started to remove the magenta line from Intracoastal Waterway nautical charts.
      `We cannot deliberately include chart features that we know may pose a danger to navigation,’ explained Rear Admiral Gerd Glang, director of NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey. `The problems of the magenta line’s misplacement, which had been developing over the past seven decades, were aggravated when some boaters assumed that the line indicated a precise route through safe water ‘“ although it actually went over land, shoals, or obstructions.’
      In 2013, while Coast Survey cartographers were removing poorly placed lines from charts that were undergoing regularly scheduled updates, Glang ordered a cartographic review of the magenta line’s function and maintenance. Simultaneous with an internal review of the issues, Glang issued a Federal Register Notice asking for public comments. Almost 240 individuals and organizations offered comments, saying that the line helped safe navigation on the Intracoastal Waterway.
      `We asked Intracoastal Waterway users to let us know if they need the route designated on nautical charts, and the response was 99.9 percent in favor of keeping it on charts,’ Glang said. `Many of the commenters explained how the magenta line saved them from dangerous or costly navigation errors. They also confirmed that we need to clear up any misunderstanding about what the magenta line is ‘“ and what it isn’t.’
      The internal review and public comments confirm that the magenta line needs to be removed where it poses a danger to navigation, rebuilt to avoid shoals and other dangers, and reinstated to all the Intracoastal Waterway nautical charts. Importantly, Coast Survey will add notes to the Intracoastal Waterway charts, emphasizing that vessels transiting the waterway should be aware of changing conditions and always honor aids to navigation.
      Improvements will take years to fully implement
      `Today’s decision to reinstate the magenta line is not a quick fix,’ cautions Captain Shep Smith, chief of Coast Survey’s Marine Chart Division. `It will take at least three years to fix problems that were 70 years in the making.’

      You can read the full announcement at:

      http://noaacoastsurvey.wordpress.com/2014/01/14/noaa-coast-survey-to-improve-magenta-line-on-intracoastal-waterway-nautical-charts/

      Sounds like GOOD news for the cruising community, and though I’ll believe the “improvements” to the magenta line just as soon as I see them!

      I’m glad they’re keeping the line and hopefully improving it. It is good to see that they are responding to public input.
      John Kettlewell

      This is great news. When used as intended, it provides a clear indication of the correct ICW waterways.
      Dave Boxmeyer

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    • Jan 14, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Good Words for Downtown Marina of Beaufort, SC, AICW Statute Mile 536.5

      The Downtown Marina Of Beaufort, SC, 1006 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 524-4422 or Marker #239 on ICW

      Downtown Marina - Click for Chartview

      Here are good words for Downtown Marina of Beaufort as originally posted on Trawler Forum, http://www.trawlerforum.com/. A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, Downtown Marina is located north of AICW marker #239, a short distance west of the Lady’s Island swing bridge, in the heart of downtown Beaufort.

      I like the Beaufort Downtown Marina. They are right downtown with several restaurants very close by. Blackstones is best for breakfast. They have a loaner car for grocery shopping. If you want to anchor or take a mooring ball, you can tie up to the park wall during the day, but not overnight. Tides are pretty swift in that area.
      Don on “Moonstruck”

      Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Downtown Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Downtown Marina of Beaufort

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    • Jan 14, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Blu Mangrove Grill, Now Open at Riviera Dunes Marina (Manatee River, off southeastern Tampa Bay)

      Riviera Dunes Marina Just off Tampa Bay Owned and Operated by BoatersWe are very pleased to note that SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Riviera Dunes Marina, now boasts a new, on-site dining establishment, the Blu Mangrove Grill (941-479-7827). Don’t read the message below if you are hungry, unless, of course, you are in striking distance of this new dining attraction!

      Open Daily at 11am. Happy Hour Monday-Sunday 11-6pm 1/2 OFF!
      Blu Mangrove Grill, now open at Riviera Dunes Marina, offers a vast selection of steaks, chops, fowl, fresh seafood and authentic American barbecue and of course, we didn’t forget the accompaniments: crisp salads, savory soups, mouthwatering side dishes and a delicious selection of home-style desserts are not to be missed.
      Blu Mangrove Grill delivers the highest quality food and service, like our smoked infused cuisine featuring hardwood grilled favorites cooked low and slow over hickory and apple wood.
      Compliment your meal with one of our specialty drinks, domestic & import beers, or fine wines, while listening to Live Entertainment (See our calendar for daily music). We are looking forward to seating you soon!
      Happy Hour Monday-Sunday 11-6pm

      MONDAYS
      .75 cent Wings All Day. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      TUESDAYS
      $15 Smoked Prime Rib until 11am-10pm. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      WEDNESDAYS
      $35 Lobster Special All Day. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      Ladies drink free select drinks from 9pm-1am!
      THURSDAYS
      $15 Full Rack of Ribs All Day. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      FRIDAYS
      $50 All You Can Eat King Crab All Day. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      SATURDAYS
      $35 All You Can Eat Snow Crab All Day. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm.
      SUNDAYS
      $5 Pulled Pork Sandwiches All Day & Pig Roast. Happy Hour 11-6pm. Appetizers 1/2 off 3-6pm

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Riviera Dunes Marina Resort

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Riviera Dunes Marina Resort

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    • Jan 13, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Another Entry in the “Best Margarita in St. Augustine Study”

      Back on 12/16/13, we published a really “fun” article about how members of the St. Augustine Cruisers’ Net Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/staugustinecruisersnet/), were searching for the best margarita in St. Augustine (see /?p=129816). At that time, it look as if Hurricane Patty’s restaurant, at River’s Edge Marina (69 Lewis Blvd, 904-827-1822) was the winner. However, in the never ending, “arduous” task of finding the best of these Mexican concoctions in historic St. Augustine, we have another entry. Looks MARVELLOUS.
      I’m going to be in St. Augustine next week, and will do my very best to give a personal report. Again, such onerous duty!!!

      Annnnd… We may have a winner, but disqualified for a technicality. You need a car to visit Rachel’s excellent suggestion. The research must go on. ‘” at La Cocina Mexican Restaurant [290 Us Highway 1 S Ste D, 904-794-1610).
      Dan N Jaye

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    • Jan 9, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for City’s Loaner Bike Program, Punta Gorda, FL, Charlotte Harbor, Western Florida

      Punta Gorda Waterfront - Click for Chartview

      Punta Gorda, Florida - a GREAT cruising destinationPunta Gorda’s FREE loaner bike program, described by Nancy Johnson, CEO of Team Punta Gorda and Lorah Steiner, Director of Tourism, is a real boon to transient cruisers! Bikes are available within easy walking distance of the Punta Gorda Waterfront Anchorage public dinghy dock located just off Gilchrist Park which is between Fishermens Village and the twin Tamiami Bridges.
      Biking is a great way to visit nearby attractions and to stretch your legs after several days on the water. Another excellent service-to-boaters provided by the city of Punta Gorda, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      The free loaner bike program had 1700 riders ytd in 2013. It’s very popular and easy to use. Our bikes are also at Fisherman’s Village and the Isles Yacht Club for cruisers that use their docks. This year, our new public floating dinghy docks were installed off of Gilchrist Park making landing much, much easier than before.
      Best Wishes,
      Nancy

      Yes. Absolutely! All they need is a credit card and driver’s license, but they won’t be charged. They can walk about 10 feet from the pier and get their bikes! There are two other locations within walking distance of the pier – the Four Points Sheraton and the Wyvern Hotel. You do NOT need to be a guest of those hotels to use the bikes.
      Anyone can take out a FREE bike for the day with helmet and lock included. Almost everything Punta Gorda can be accessed by bicycle. All you need is a credit card and drivers license for security purposes but you won’t be charged if the bike is returned in good condition. I used to take them out all the time. They are a great way to see the town.
      I think all of the bikes have baskets as well for transporting small items. I used to love to ride them to the farmer’s markets – one on Saturday and one on Sunday – or to Fisherman’s Village. The more intrepid can bike to Ponce De Leon Park – about a five mile bike ride, I think, to visit the Peace River Wildlife Center – one of my favorite attractions. It’s mostly all flat, easily bike-able terrain with sidewalks and bike paths.
      Boat and Bike!!
      Lorah Steiner
      Director of Tourism

      Sharon and I were in Punta Gorda in April and enjoyed these bikes. Its a great biking area and the bikes have pretty good size baskets and locks. If you’re looking for Cannondale’s, you won’t be happy, but if you want a nice piece of fat tire free transportation and an easy terrain to bike in (LOTS of cruiser amenities in range) this is a destination to add.
      John Martis

      And, here is a map sent to us by our partners in Punta Gorda. Note the diamond shaped symbols which denote where you can pick up the loaner bikes. And so, it looks as if cruisers who dinghy ashore at Gilchrist Park will either need to walk northeast to pick up bikes hard by the Highway 41 bridges, or southwest to Fishermens Village.


       
      There is definitely a nice new floating dinghy dock at Gilchrist Park. I used it last month. From the dinghy dock you can walk southwest along the shore to Fisherman’s Village Marina where you can pick up a free loaner bicycle to ride around town.
      This link gets you to a chart that is not yet updated but the dinghy dock is between 3 and 9 (closer to 9) on the Welcome Chart.
      http://boat2puntagorda.com/WelcomeChart.html
      LivingtheDream

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Punta Gorda Waterfront Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fishermen’s Village

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Punta Gorda Waterfront

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    • Jan 9, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cruising Western Florida’s Big Bend Region

      I have often said, but it’s worth repeating, that if you get six veteran cruisers together, and ask their opinion about the best way to cruise the waterwayless “Big Bend” region of Western Florida, moving north from Tarpon Springs and Anclote Key to Dog Island and the charming village of Carrabelle (or the other way around), you will get eight different opinions.
      On the one hand, some argue for “cutting the corner” and heading directly from Dog Island straight for Anclote Key or Clearwater. There are a whole set of issues around this strategy such as what time of day (or night) do you depart, and the presence of crabpots and fish traps as one approaches Anclote Key.
      The other strategy is to follow the Big Bend Coastline, keeping WELL offshore, to avoid the large shelf of shallows which jut out from this portion of the Florida coastline. This plan allows visits to the Big Bend rivers, which pierce the coastline at regular intervals, and are joined to the Gulf’s deeper waters by marked, dredged channels. Following some of these passages can be a real navigational challenge, and some of these stream’s entrance cuts carry only 4 to 4 1/2 feet of water. Others are somewhat deeper, but none are a proverbial walk in the park.
      Below, you will find excerpts from a recent string of messages which have appeared on the “GL” (Great Loop) mailing list. As you will see, a full spectrum of opinions is on display here as well.

      Although most “loopers” seem to bypass the Big Bend, we are interested in actually experiencing some of the old Florida areas that are apparently still very much alive and well, if water depth and weather permits.
      Sanderling is currently in Carrabelle at the C-Quarters marina while we’re enjoying a few months at home. We want to resume our cruise homeward to Merritt Island once the winter winds subside and water levels return to near “normal,” temps warm up, and daylight is longer – probably March.
      We have visited St. Marks, Steinhatchee, and Cedar Key by car on our way to and from Sanderling, and would like to visit all three on our way around the Big Bend to Tarpon Springs. Might also consider Crystal River.
      At least one boater has visited both St. Marks and Steinhatchee in a DF 49 with a 5 foot draft (our DF 41 is 4 feet).
      Has anyone cruised into those three areas (St. Marks, Steinhatchee, Cedar Key) or Crystal River in a boat with 4+ foot draft, and what was your experience with the water depths and anchorages/marinas?
      Any thoughts or suggestions welcome!
      Judy Young & Bob McLeran

      When we were in Carrabelle my assessment was that the northerly winds that are favorable to leave will also blow or the water in those ports. I was trying hard to avoid the long overnight run and kept looking at all options very seriously.
      I was warned by the guys at C Quarters that Steinhatchee entrance can get quite shallow even on a good day. They tried to talk me out of going there. Then add to it the effect of the North wind which will make it even lower. I saw it as a crap shoot and decided against putting myself in that potential situation.
      I chose the overnight crossing and went straight to Clearwater instead of Tarpon Springs. It was a small additional time but there are far less crab pots approaching Clearwater.
      Left the bay near Carrabelle at noon and arrived at the Wrights at 3rd next day.
      R.

      We had a DeFever 44+5 with a 4′-7″ draft (5′ w/Admiral’s stuff). Cannot attest to the depths now, but we went into St. Marks in May of 2006 & had no problems. Also, no problems with Steinhatchee & Cedar Key in December of 2007. Best I remember we went into both places on a rising tide. Never did go into Crystal River, but had friends that have been in there with 4′-6″ draft & had no trouble.
      Don’t believe I would make the trip today into any of those places until the wind blows the water back into the bays.
      Eddie Lomenick
      Eagle’s Nest

      Leaving for the Big Bend in March is a good plan, better later in the month once the prevailing winds shift back to the southeast. That will return your channels to their charted depths. Ideally, you can leave one port and arrive in the next at high tide to reduce the margin of risk. Those tides are about 13 hours apart and if you hit the time just right, you can ride your departing high tide all down the coast. I have been through the Big Bend in a 4 foot draft sailboat and this strategy worked well. April would even work better for you.
      Stay safe,
      Tom

      I’ve been in and out of a few but not all of these places. I think that if you can plan your arrival or departures around the tides you will be OK with 4′ draft and a single screw. The problem is that north winds blow all the water out and if you are unlucky enough to combine that with spring lows your draft will most assuredly exceed your depth.
      Crystal River is typical of many Big Bend rivers. It is about eight miles in (and back out) from the Gulf, which makes the day’s travel a couple hours longer than you might think.
      Regards,
      Randy Pickelmann
      Morning Star

      We have cruised the Big Bend several times in Silver Boots drawing five feet with stops at Steinhatchie and Cedar Key.
      We have found we need one foot above winter low tide to enter the Steinhatchie channel. There is one floating green channel marker and this is the low spot. We have stayed at the Sea Hag marina.
      We have entered Cedar Key from both north and south and do not suggest the north west channel because of shoaling. At high tide we have scraped bottom. The south Main Ship channel has plenty of depth but becomes tricky as you approach the intersection with the north west channel. Study the charts carefully and understand the zig zag route you will follow. No marina and very little protection in this anchorage.
      Jim & Pam Shipp
      aboard Silver Boots

      Steinhatchee, FL. is our hailing port , we sail in and out frequently. We have two sailboats there a 50 ft. Gulf Star Texas, and a Islander 36 that both draw six feet. As long as you keep it in the channel there is no problem navigating in and out here. We’ve also been in and out of Crystal River a few times with these vessels. You need a good peak high tide going in as there is a shallow sand bar to cross, or there was last time we went in?
      Fair Winds,
      R. Bideaux
      La victoria

      To me, the draft of your boat is the biggest consideration. My boat draws 5 feet and I always cut across, usually from Carravelle to Clearwater, or vice versa. If you are not in a hurry, don’t just wait for the weather, wait for a night with a full or nearly full moon, and it will make the night passage a lot more fun. It’s an easy one nighter.
      With less draft, there are several places that would be fun to stop and visit.
      R. Holiman

      For boats planning to arrive Crystal River – We live in Crystal River and home port our 44′ Island Gypsy here. We draft 4.5 feet. With the low tides we are having now, we only move at near high tide and even then there are several areas in the river that we clear with only 2.5 feet under the keel. The river will lull you with stretches of 12-14 feet and suddenly 2 to 3 feet under your keel – go slow. The channel inbound from CR1 to Shell Island also has several areas with the same depths so from CR1 to Kings Bay needs to be done slowly. Things will improve with the arrival of spring tides but for now deeper draft boats should exercise caution and only transit at high tide.
      Doug & Virginia Hall M/V Lotus

      WE have sailed the St. Marks/Shell Point area for years. St. Marks is not problem, the channel is dredged for large fuel barges and has plenty of water. Shields Marina is a very nice facility and anchoring well up the St. Marks river is a wonderful wilderness experience. There is plenty of water up the river to the large powerlines that cross just south of US 98 bridge. The St. Mark’s wildlife refuge borders the east side of the river and the flloodplain on the west has a few docks and houses, but you cannot see most of the houses. When anchor overnight you are usually alone are with light traffic and you really think you are in a jungle. This is truly an undiscovered part of the big bend. Try the Riverside restaurant which has music most weekends and a transient dock.
      Phil Werndli
      MSV Banana Wind

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    • Jan 8, 2014by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Upper Waccamaw River Cartographical Aids

      AICW/Upper Waccamaw Intersection - Click for Chartview

      Back on 12/24/13, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net (along with many other nautical publications) made the sad announcement that the USCG would be removing all aids to navigation on the upper portion of the Waccamaw River, abandoned by the AICW (see /?p=130563). As SSECN Senior Editor, Captain Larry Dorminy, commented at that time, “While depths in the Upper Waccamaw are reported to be good, the removal of these daybeacons and buoys will certainly make this side trip upstream to Conway, SC more difficult.”
      Then, HAPPILY, we received the note below from veteran cruisers, Captains Jim and Peg Healy:

      Claiborne,
      When Sanctuary and crew made the side trip to Conway, SC, in October, 2013, the lateral daymarks in the river were in good condition. With the USCG announcing plans to permanently discontinue the daymarks on the upper Waccamaw, there are very few reliable sources of navigation guidance for cruisers, and particularly first-time/less-experienced cruisers. There are some large tributaries and embayments that intersect the river. Some are large enough to be confusing to those not familiar with the area.
      As you know, there are no NOAA charts of the upper Waccamaw that cover the upper river. So, I superimposed Sanctuary’s GPS track on a road map of the area. I hope this will be useful in portraying the through-route northbound into Conway.
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary

      Jim and Peg are quite correct. Even though I’ve made this side-trip at least a dozen times over the years, without the various markers, I can easily see my tiny mind becoming confused at some of the forks along the way. Jim and Peg have done the cruising community a tremendous favor by providing the cartographical aids, linked below.
      A word of WARNING – these “maps” are NOT nautical charts, and cannot be relied upon to always keep you to good depths. Sidewaters off the main, upper Waccamaw River chanel are almost uniformly shallow, so all cruisers should undertake this sidetrip with the full knowledge that they are embarking on a somewhat chancy sojourn. In other words, cruise the upper Waccamaw at your own risk.
      With that being said, what we have done is blow up Jim and Peg’s maps to a level that cruisers will hopefully find useful, and divided these graphics into four parts. Part 1 depicts the southernmost section of the upper Waccamaw, with the subsequent parts moving farther north with Part 4 leading all the way to Conway, SC, and their friendly city marina.
      Like Jim and Peg, we hope everyone finds these maps useful!

      Upper Waccamaw River Map – Part 1

      Upper Waccamaw River Map – Part 2

      Upper Waccamaw River Map – Part 3

      Upper Waccamaw River Map – Part 4

      Agree, these maps are better than nothing but what a shame the CG is removing the markers. This is a great little side trip off the waterway that we have done a couple of times in the last 25 years. And’¦there are a couple of places where you can go wrong if not for a day marker. Caution is the word and I think fewer boaters without local knowledge will be going to Conway going forward.
      Doyle Evans

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    • Jan 8, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      S/V Primadonna Located in Bahamas

      A search for a number of weeks in response to a request (/?p=129228) by Oriental merchant, Pat Stockwell, has finally located the errant sailing vessel, Primadonna. Our thanks to Steve Petty for this story from TownDock, see http://towndock.net/on-the-cover/booby-primadonna.

      SV Primadonna has been located although the crew may have been detained:
      `SV Primadonna, aground at Booby Cay Island in the Bahamas. It is a tiny island of 300, not normally on tourist / cruiser lists. Apparently the vessel & crew entered the Bahamas without checking in with authorities. Pat Stockwell tells TownDock.net (http://www.TownDock.net) he was told the Primadonna crew may have been arrested ‘“ Bahamian authorities are harsher about the rules than they are in the USA. The photo was taken from a US Coast Guard helicopter ‘“ the Coast Guard patrols the Bahamas as part of a cooperation agreement with the Bahamas to fight drug trafficking. ‘ ‘”Towndock.net
      Steve Petty

      If this is the Booby Cay that is just a bit east of Rose Island, which in turn is east of Nassau, it isn’t all that remote and I suspect the Primadonna crew will be in the not-so-comfortable confines of Nassau jail. Unfortunately, one bad apple like this can severely impact the reputation of the entire cruising community, as we have seen with the so-called `derelict’ boat issue that has been used to create anti-anchoring ordinances in Florida and other places. When in reality the vast majority of the cruising community are themselves totally opposed to this type of behavior.
      John Kettlewell

      I doubt that these two would go anywhere near Nassau because of the entry fees into the Bahamas. I believe that they are aground between Booby Cay and Conception Island in the Bahamas. Conception Island is in a remote area and is a National Park in the Southern Bahamas. Very few cruisers visit.
      There are two anchorages off Conception Island, one is located South of Booby Cay. The entrance to this anchorage is from the Southwest. If they tried to enter from the Northeast, between Booby Cay and Conception Island, the route is very shallow and full of rocks.
      It’s too bad they did not sink in the really deep water a few miles from where they are. Word is that they were headed for Haiti or one of the French Islands. With any luck the Bahamas officials will confiscate their boat and throw them both in jail.
      The good news is that they are gone from the US and are now someone else’s problem.
      Dave Boxmeyer

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    • Jan 7, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Watch for Crab Pots in Florida Bay, Marathon to Cape Sable

      The passage from East Cape on Cape Sable eastward across Florida Bay to Marathon in the Florida Keys requires a sharp lookout at best and the presence of crab pot floats only adds to that necessity.

      Florida Bay from Cape Sable to within 2-3 miles of Marathon is carpeted with crab pot markers. While we dodged them all, I heard that 2 boats got their props wrapped during their crossings.
      Bob & Loretta McKane.

      Florida rule 68B-13.008: Gear, Trap Construction and so forth states in part:No more than 5 feet of any buoy line attached to a buoy used to mark a stone crab trap or attached to a trotline shall float on the surface of the water.
      I have personally wrapped up in traps with 50′ of floating line.
      FWC doesn’t seem to enforce this rule or the other one about dropping pots in channels. I’ve had problems with them crossing under the 7 mile bridge as well. It’s a mine field in the channel.
      Larry Annen

      Once you leave Little Shark, travel down the shoreline to Cape Sable and then take a course for John Sawyer Bank just on the north side of Marathon. From their you can easily follow the ICW to 7 Mile Bridge and then head back in Boot Key Harbor. There really isn’t an exact route. Plan on water depths of 8 to 14 feet and LOTS of crab and lobster traps to dodge. We look for an wind out of the eastern quadrant to run down the coast and then leave Little Shark early to get calm seas. We watch for a time when there are 2 footers or less. Dodging pots in seas is a real pain.
      Marty and Jerry Richardson onboard M/V Monarch

      If you run inside the Everglades Park limits you will have no Crab Pots, but once you get south of the Everglades Park watch out for them.
      Mitch & Carole On Serendipity in FT. Myers

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    • Jan 7, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.1406,-80.92419999

      Words of Caution for Everglades National Park Marina in Flamingo, FL


       View In Chartview

      Flamingo Marina - Click for Chartview

      Flamingo Marina is part of the Cape Sable Everglades National Park Service and is located in Flamingo, FL. The contact number for the Marina is 239-695-3101. However, because of the severe shoaling in the entrance channel, this facility is not recommended by the SSECN evergladesnationalparkboattoursflamingo.com/’Ž

      We came here from Flamingo. While the national park service people there are very helpful, the concessionaire who runs the marina is not. Phones are not answered and go into voice mail which is not returned for a day+. The channel is badly shoaled near buoys 13/15′. No one responds to a hail on channel 16 so you are left on your own to find a place to dock. The utility pedestals are infested with hornets, half with no electricity, the others with no water. This could be a great place to visit, but should only be used if the Florida Bay is too snotty to cross.
      Bob & Loretta McKane.

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Flamingo Marina

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    • Jan 5, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Kudos to J.T. at Halden Marine Service! Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood/Miami, FL

      It is this kind of service that turns a bad time unto a positive experience! Halden Marine Service is located at 1019 N 32nd Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33021, Phone: (954) 964-8136.

      My wife and I waited for arrival in Key Biscayne to unpickle our Spectra Watermaker in preparation for cruising in the Bahamas. When powered up, we discovered the pump head needed replacement. This was Christmas week, and our weather window for making the Gulf Stream crossing was fast approaching and not expected to last very long. I called J.T., who not only ordered the part I needed express, but then delivered them at no cost to me on December 27th from his Hollywood, FL shop to No Name Harbor on Key Biscayne. I replaced the pump myself. Despite this, J.T. only charged me his cost for the parts, and provided me lots of advice. GREAT SERVICE and great, trustworthy guy. Highly recommend him. George on SV Tara.

      We do not know of anyone who can beat JT in service. The Spectra watermaker is great and his service is first class! He always answers his emails and phone. I’m sure some of my questions makes him shake his head but there has never been a time when we weren’t 100% satisfied!! Go Halden Marine Service!
      Dick and Anne Anderson

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    • Jan 5, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for Southport Marina, Southport, NC, AICW Statute Mile 309.5

      Southport MarinaSouthport Marina, a much valued SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, lies just west of the Cape Fear River along the northern banks of the Waterway hard by flashing daybeacon #2A.

      I cannot say enough positive things about Southport Marina. I have been here for almost three weeks and will be here for a couple more as well. All of the staff are attentive, professional and pleasant. Excellent facilities, a short 10 minute walk into the heart of downtown Southport and a myriad of services available. Highly recommended for one night, a week or longer ‘“ and will return!
      Jay Kuhn

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Southport Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Southport Marina

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    • Jan 3, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Alternate Route Suggested for St. Andrew Sound, AICW Statute Mile 690

      Marker #32 - Click for Chartview

      In addition to Umbrella Cut (see /?p=128619) and other alternates (see /?p=118925) to avoid the infamous R32 in often turbulent waters, Captain Ehlen offers the following suggestion that is an “around your elbow” route, but seems straight forward.
      THE SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET WANTS TO MAKE IT CRYSTAL CLEAR THAT WE ARE NOT ADVOCATING THE ALTERNATE ROUTE SUGGESTED BELOW BY CAPTAIN EHLEN. However, now that we have a first-hand account from Captain Richard Ross, cruising aboard the ARGUS cooperative research vessel, Chez Nous, this route is CERTAINLY on our radar to research in the near future!
      Even the adventurous among us should not have the tiniest thought of trying to run the channel east of #7 without an up to date and well functioning GPS chart plotter aboard.

      I haven’t tried this myself, but looking at the charts it seems to me that there is a deep water alternative.
      When heading south, at red #2 at Raccoon Key Split, turn to starboard SW above Horseshoe Shoal. Follow markers 3,4,5 and 6, then turn to port after G7. Head east until back on the ICW between FG33 and G33A.
      I hope someone has comments, good or bad, about this alternative.
      Wade Ehlen

      Here’s a posting from `the archives’ that describes the route I recently suggested. Posted on 11-02-2011
      “We went through the area yesterday. It was beyond awful in the Sound, so we turned to starboard up the Satilla River to marker 8, turned to port and worked our way through the deeper water back to Cumberland River. This is NOT the charted alternate route, but much shorter and worked for us. It was about 2 hours after high tide and we were able to make it through. We draw 5′. Not flat, but the giant elephants in St. Andrews made it a no-brainer for us.
      Take a look, and good luck!
      Stephanie Wakelin M/V September Song”
      Wade Ehlen

      And, finally, HERE IS THE FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE OF THIS ALTERNATE ROUTE WE HAVE BEEN SEEKING, and from a veteran cruiser, piloting an ARGUS cooperative research vessel, no less. We have pasted a shot of the channel near marker #7, showing the ARGUS soundings. Click on the chartlet to be taken to a Chart View page of these waters, with the ARGUS layer automatically activated!

      We have taken this route twice, and it does avoid the worst of marker 32. The charted depths are fairly accurate, and the only shallow spot is a sharp bump just south of marker 7. Take it slow there, as the bottom rises quickly from 12 ft to about 5 feet MLW, then immediately drops back to 12ft. Click on ARGUS to see the exact spot.
      Richard Ross M/V Chez Nous

      Came though the same route as Chez Vous early December. Winds ENE 15-20. Good alternative’¦ had same observations. Draft:5.5ft
      Doug Jacoby

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of St. Andrew Sound

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