Web Cams Up and Running in Flagler County, FL, AICW Between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach
To view these sites go to:
http://www.palmcoastandtheflaglerbeaches.com/where-we-are/webcams-weather.stml
CRUISERS NET
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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:
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:
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 KettlewellThis is great news. When used as intended, it provides a clear indication of the correct ICW waterways.
Dave BoxmeyerBe the first to comment!
Good Words for Downtown Marina of Beaufort, SC, AICW Statute Mile 536.5
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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Blu Mangrove Grill, Now Open at Riviera Dunes Marina (Manatee River, off southeastern Tampa Bay)
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
.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 3-6pmClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Riviera Dunes Marina Resort
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Another Entry in the “Best Margarita in St. Augustine Study”
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 JayeBe the first to comment!
Praise for City’s Loaner Bike Program, Punta Gorda, FL, Charlotte Harbor, Western Florida
Punta Gorda Waterfront - Click for Chartview
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,
NancyYes. 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 TourismSharon 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 MartisAnd, 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
LivingtheDreamClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Punta Gorda Waterfront
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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 McLeranWhen 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 NestLeaving 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,
TomI’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 StarWe 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 BootsSteinhatchee, 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 victoriaTo 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. HolimanFor 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 LotusWE 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 WindBe the first to comment!
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 SanctuaryJim 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 EvansBe the first to comment!
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 PettyIf 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 KettlewellI 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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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 AnnenOnce 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 MonarchIf 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. MyersBe the first to comment!
Words of Caution for Everglades National Park Marina in Flamingo, FL
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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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 AndersonBe the first to comment!
Praise for Southport Marina, Southport, NC, AICW Statute Mile 309.5
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 KuhnClick 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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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 EhlenHere’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 EhlenAnd, 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 NousCame 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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More on Shoaling on Southern Foot of Sunshine Skyway Channel, at the Mouth of Tampa Bay (near Western Florida ICW St. M. 98)
These reports are in response to a Navigation Alert that SSECN posted in May of 2013, /?p=114205. The cautions issued at that time are still applicable as Captains Hines and Davis attest.
We came this way five days ago and the shoaling at this point is worse than I have ever seen it. The middle of the channel looked like a sandbar and could not have had more than three feet of water over it. We draw 4 and 1/2 feet and came to a stop. There was a darker strip of deeper water to the east well outside the channel. We picked our way through by sight and feel and made it past the danger area. It was about mid tide on a strong ebbing tide so it was no place to run around. Caution is strongly advised.
Brad HinesI commented a while back about shoaling adjacent to green 3; since then it seems they have removed the floating red nuns which diverted traffic more easterly near the mouth of the channel. I went through a few days ago and thought I would run aground. Somehow just when the depthfinder said we were done, I got across. This was a little below mid tide, I draw 4.5 feet. Do stay away from green 3, it is still shallow there also.
Cambren DavisBe the first to comment!
Comments Requested by the Office of Coast Survey
This important notice of critical changes to the distribution of NOAA charts was received today and your comments are sought. Submit comments by mail to Director, Office of Coast Survey, 1315 East-West Highway #6216, Silver Spring MD 20910; or by using the online NOAA Nautical Inquiry & Comment System at http://nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/inquiry.
FEDERAL REGISTER NOTICE
January 2, 2014Contact:Dawn Forsythe, Coast Survey Communications
301-713-2780 x144
Notice of Changes in the Development and Distribution of NOAA Nautical Charts and Publications
Coast Survey asks for public commentsToday’s Federal Register carried this notice from Coast Survey. (The published Federal Register Notice is here.)DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Notice of Changes in the Development and Distribution of NOAA Nautical Charts and Publications
AGENCY: Office of Coast Survey, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce
ACTION: Notice to advise the public of changes to the printing and distribution of NOAA’s nautical charts, including digital charts, and to seek public comment.
SUMMARY: NOAA is making significant changes to nautical chart printing and distribution, and is seeking public comment. This notice informs the public of the Office of Coast Survey’s approach to expanding navigation products and services, and explains how mariners may continue to access the nautical charts necessary for safe navigation of U.S. waters and to meet regulatory carriage requirements.
DATES: Written, faxed, or emailed comments are due by midnight, February 3, 2014.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments by mail to Director, Office of Coast Survey, 1315 East-West Highway #6216, Silver Spring MD 20910; or by using the online NOAA Nautical Inquiry & Comment System at http://nauticalcharts.noaa.
gov/inquiry .FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Visit the Web site (http://nauticalcharts.noaa.
gov ) or contact the Office of Coast Survey at the following address: NOAA, National Ocean Service, Office of Coast Survey, Marine Chart Division, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-32821, U.S.A.; telephone 888-990-6622; fax 301-713-4516; email anthony.r.klemm@noaa.gov.SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: NOAA is privatizing the printing of nautical charts. Regulations that govern nautical chart and publication carriage requirements remain unchanged. These regulations are found in 33 CFR 164 and Title 46 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
After April 13, 2014, NOAA-certified Print-on-Demand (POD) charts will be the only official source available for mariners to obtain NOAA paper nautical charts. NOAA-certified POD charts, available since 1999 through certified POD partners, are official paper nautical charts that are up-to-date at the time of printing. These charts are considered “published” by NOAA’s National Ocean Service, and therefore meet chart carriage requirements.
POD charts are currently available from NOAA commercial partners OceanGrafix (http://www.oceangrafix.com) and East View Geospatial (http://www.geospatial.com). If you are interested in becoming a POD chart provider, learn more at our Web site at http://www.nauticalcharts.
noaa.gov/pod/PODpartner.htm .NOAA is also making nautical chart information available digitally in three new ways, and is seeking feedback on these three changes.
- For a three-month trial period (October 22, 2013 to January 22, 2014), NOAA is providing free digital chart image files in PDF (Portable Document Format) file format. The free PDF chart files are available for public use. The digital charts are also available as NOAA-certified Print-on-Demand charts. NOAA will evaluate the usage and user feedback to decide whether to continue providing public access to PDF nautical charts. Please note that the free PDF charts do not meet chart carriage requirements under federal regulations unless printed to NOAA quality standards by a NOAA-certified POD partner. Download PDF charts at www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/
pdfcharts . - NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey is providing high-resolution NOAA raster navigational charts (NOAA RNC®) for public testing and evaluation. The Office of Coast Survey is upgrading the image quality from the current 254 DPI to 400 DPI to improve clarity, readability, and aesthetics of this digital charting product. The evaluation dataset, which is kept up-to-date like the current RNCs, is available for download for Tampa Bay, Detroit, Long Island Sound, and Puget Sound. If no problems are identified or left unresolved, Coast Survey intends to upgrade all RNCs to 400 dpi by February 2014. Software product developers and RNC users are invited to provide comments or questions regarding this new service. Download the evaluation datasets at www.charts.noaa.gov/RNCs_400/.
- An online seamless viewer of NOAA’s electronic navigational charts (NOAA ENC®) is available for public use at the Web site http://www.nauticalcharts.
noaa.gov/ENCOnline/ . NOAA ENC Online optimizes the viewing of the entire ENC suite, using the display rules defined by the International Hydrographic Organization’s S-52 standards, Specifications for Chart Content and Display Aspects of ECDIS. The public is invited to provide comments or questions regarding this new service.
Authority: 33 USC Chapter 17, Coast and Geodetic Survey Act of 1947
Dated: December 16, 2013Gerd Glang,
Director, Office of Coast Survey, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration[FR Doc. 2013-31378 File 12-31: 8:45 am]NOAA Office of Coast Survey is the nation’s nautical chartmaker. Originally formed by President Thomas Jefferson in 1807, Coast Survey updates charts, surveys the coastal seafloor, responds to maritime emergencies, and searches for underwater obstructions that pose a danger to navigation.This is absolutely detrimental to navigational safety. Already, there are many fewer outlets for NOAA charts and obtaining POD charts requires advance planning and time to obtain, and they cost significantly more. As a boater with more than 35 years of experience I have numerous times purchased NOAA paper charts at or near the time needed because of a change in plans or other circumstances. That is simply no longer possible in most areas. PDF charts are next to useless because of the difficulty in printing off multiple segments and then cutting and taping them together, and the result is not at all water resistant or durable. Digital charts and privately produced chartbooks are great, but I personally like to always have both onboard.
John KettlewellBe the first to comment!
- For a three-month trial period (October 22, 2013 to January 22, 2014), NOAA is providing free digital chart image files in PDF (Portable Document Format) file format. The free PDF chart files are available for public use. The digital charts are also available as NOAA-certified Print-on-Demand charts. NOAA will evaluate the usage and user feedback to decide whether to continue providing public access to PDF nautical charts. Please note that the free PDF charts do not meet chart carriage requirements under federal regulations unless printed to NOAA quality standards by a NOAA-certified POD partner. Download PDF charts at www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/
Proof of Pump-out to be Required in Key West?
Captain Kettlewell sends us this article by reporter Gwen Filosa in The Florida Keys and Key West’s Daily Inline News. The report details discussions between members of the Bight Management Board and Mark Tait, the manager of the City Marina, concerning enforcement of the current law requiring pump-outs. For the complete story, go to: http://keysnews.com/node/52348. Such enforcement will affect transients and live-aboards.
Key West is considering requiring dinghies and visiting boats to show proof of pumpouts before docking!
What about those of us who use composting or incinerating toilets or porta potties?
John KettlewellWhile I absolutely agree that no boat should ever pump raw sewage overboard, someone in the Key West city attorney’s office and Monroe County should read the Federal Clean Water Act! It clearly and specifically prohibits states (and, therefore, municipalities from regulating MSDs or their use! They can enforce the Federal law and regulations but cannot go beyond those requirements. The federal law and regulations were put in place to avoid just this type of hodgepodge of laws which would be impossible for vessels to know or follow as they transit different local jurisdictions.
Larry Sherman s/v EnchantressAs a follow-up to my recent email regarding Key West requiring proof of pumpout, here is the Federal law prohibiting the states and their political subdivisions from doing that! Perhaps you could have your friends at BoatUS look into this?
(f) Regulation by States or political subdivisions thereof; complete prohibition upon discharge of sewage
(1)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), after the effective date of the initial standards and regulations promulgated under this section, no State or political subdivision thereof shall adopt or enforce any statute or regulation of such State or political subdivision with respect to the design, manufacture, or installation or use of any marine sanitation device on any vessel subject to the provisions of this section.
(B) A State may adopt and enforce a statute or regulation with respect to the design, manufacture, or installation or use of any marine sanitation device on a houseboat, if such statute or regulation is more stringent than the standards and regulations promulgated under this section. For purposes of this paragraph, the term `houseboat’ means a vessel which, for a period of time determined by the State in which the vessel is located, is used primarily as a residence and is not used primarily as a means of transportation.
Larry Sherman s/v EnchantressWith respect to the federal law quoted, consider that Texas has an MSD Certification requirement (TEX WA. CODE ANN. § 26.044 : Texas Statutes ‘“ Section 26.044: DISPOSAL OF BOAT SEWAGE)
That has been in place since 2009 without federal challenge.
It applies thusly, `As used in this section, `boat’ means any vessel or other watercraft, whether moved by oars, paddles, sails, or other power mechanism, inboard or outboard, or any other vessel or structure floating on water in this state, whether or not capable of self-locomotion, including but not limited to cabin cruisers, houseboats, barges, marinas, and similar floating objects.’ The Gulf ICW is “water” in this state.
Chris and JanetBe the first to comment!
Possible Development of Goat Island in the Future for Georgetown, SC, AICW Statute Mile 403
Georgetown Harbor - Click for Chartview
Any boater who has visited Georgetown harbor, especially to anchor, knows the location of Goat Island, because it parallels Harbor Walk and the rest of Georgetown waterfront. The owner of Goat Island is proposing to deed the property to the City of Georgetown for development for recreational use(see the Master Plan below). For the full story in the Georgetown Times, go to http://www.gtowntimes.com/article/20131025/GTT06/131029932/1110/goat-island-owner-sees-opportunity-for-georgetown-the-city-on-the-sampit
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Wishing They were with us in the South!
We post this comment from Captain Viola and crew to offer our sympathies on their being stuck in the cold, cold north and to remind the rest of us of how lucky we are to be where there ain’t no snow and ice!!
When we were about to sail south this year (to warmer climes in SC) in our Tri-Cabin trawler `Lady T’ ‘“ we transited Patcong Creek, a sheltered river off the Greate Egg Inlet near Ocean City NJ. We found the area littered with debris (no doubt from Hurr. Sandy) and wrapped a submerged cable around our stbd. shaft. We were disabled, the shaft bent, and the strut broken, and we never made it south. We enjoy SSCN, and wish we could join all of our friends that cruise south. Maybe next year! Keep up the good work and congrats on the great year!
Captain Bob Viola
`The Lady T’Be the first to comment!
FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission) Proposes Three Year Extension of the Pilot Mooring Field Program
Just before Christmas, we received a telephone call from a fellow cruiser, reporting that the FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission) was going to propose a three year extension of the Florida Pilot Mooring Field Program. There was not time to verify this data before the Holiday, but then, over Christmas, Captain Michael Connelly forwarded the “Florida Keysnoter” (www.keysnet.com) story below (see red text), which confirms the FWC’s action.
The entire issue of Florida anchoring rights and Florida mooring fields has become a fast moving, and much discussed issue here on the SSECN. First, we presented a very frank discussion about the desirability of having mooring fields at all (see /?p=123153), and then comes the bombshell that ALL Florida anchoring and mooring field regulations are being challenged in US Federal court (see /?p=129877)! Now, here comes the FWC proposing a three year extension of the Pilot Program.
It’s becoming a full time job just to keep up with this dynamic situation. The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net promises to do all in our power to keep the cruising community fully informed on all the latest developments in the struggle for Florida anchoring rights. HOWEVER, we need the help of fellow cruisers, like yourself and Captain Connelly. WHENEVER YOU GET WIND OF ANY LATE BREAKING DEVELOPMENTS, PLEASE SHOOT THAT INFO TO THE SSECN AT THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE MOMENT!New managed anchoring areas in the Florida Keys could have a short life span.
A statewide pilot program that allowed creation of the new areas expires in July unless the Florida Legislature acts this spring.
In October 2012, Monroe County commissioners gave final approval to the managed anchoring zones, or narrow no-anchoring buffer zones around existing mooring fields, in Marathon’s Boot Key Harbor, and in Lower Keys waters of Boca Chica Basin, Key West Harbor and Cow Key Channel.
Over the past year, the areas went into effect as boundaries were marked by signs, and informational brochures were distributed to boaters and local marinas. A system of providing free but mandatory sewage pumpouts once a month was instituted.
“Things are in place and going well,” Rich Jones, Monroe County’s senior administrator of Marine Resources, said this week.
“We have not had a lot of feedback” from boaters using the areas, Jones said, “other than everybody likes the free pumpouts.”
Information on how many boats are using the managed areas was not available at press time.
The Legislature passed the 2009 law allowing the pilot program in five specific areas, including the Keys. The legislation specifies that the special rules will sunset on July 1 unless extended.
It took time for local jurisdictions to craft their plans and rules, then have them approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Monroe County’s pilot program also needed the endorsement of city officials in Marathon and Key West.
A slate of requests from the FWC board to state legislators for this spring’s session is expected to include a recommendation that the pilot anchoring program be extended until 2017.
The Keys zones primarily were created to eliminate the illegal dumping of sewage from anchored boats, and identify boats at risk of sinking and becoming derelict.
“Florida Keys waters have historically been used for living aboard and storage of vessels at anchor,” says the county’s managed-area information. “The water-related Keys lifestyle is a traditional part of the Keys culture. However, in recent years irresponsible boating practices, associated with proliferation of unmanaged anchorages, have created environmental impacts that have become a growing public concern.”
As it stands, the Monroe County anchorages would remain if the Florida Legislature extends the pilot program. However, Monroe County commissioners could end the local program on their own by changing the local law creating them.As of 1/6/14, the “Keynoter” has published a follow-up story on this issue at:
http://keysnews.com/node/52752
It’s WELL WORTH READING. PLEASE follow the link above!
I view FWC’s latest announcement as a positive move. The state of Florida is continuing to hold municipalities accountable until a formal process for establishing anchorages and mooring fields is put in place. By doing this FWC (the state of Florida) prevents the Wild West of anchoring rules which are dreamed up by any town, county or city who wishes to displace or control boaters. If ultimately there is a permanent Florida state statute which has similar checks and balances in place as the current temporary statute, I believe the boating public at large will be equally well served.
Philip JohnsonAnyone who thinks the FWC has nothing better to do than harass local live a boards, has no idea of what’s going on. Every thing they are trying to enforce only promotes the conservation of our beautiful community. Follow the rules when you are in our backyard and you will find the harassment non existent.
Today alone between noon and two o’clock FWC resecued a lost diver, responded to a reported square grouper, and investigated a migrant insertion vessel off of boot key.
Joe BaumanI’m sorry to say, but I know of some experienced cruisers that are staying away from these communities with managed mooring fields and anti-anchoring regulations. The derelicts have not gone away, just moved elsewhere. So the only people impacted by these laws are the responsible transient boaters like myself who prefer to use our thousands of dollars of anchoring gear for something other than bow jewelry. And, these communities that think they will now reap the rewards of forcing boaters to pick up pay moorings are paying for all this with their taxes as the fees do not cover the costs of building, running, and maintaining the fields.
John KettlewellBe the first to comment!
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at the Southern Foot of the Sunshine Skyway Channel
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Comments from Cruisers (1)
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…