Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Jun 6, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Detailed Report on Little River Inlet, South Carolina Navigation (near Statute Mile 342)
Well, what better information can one get on an inlet other than an account from a professional captain who pilots a large, deep draft ship through the seaward passage in question on an almost daily basis. Hats off to Captain Henry Young for obtaining this report, and passing it along to the cruising community.
Little River Inlet lies south and east of the Waterway, right at the North Carolina – South Carolina state line, and just a stone’s throw north of the marinas at Little River, SC. The “Big M” gambling ship is stationed at a dock just south of AICW/Little River Inlet intersection. We have seen it dockside during many of our passages through northeastern South Carolina waters.
Cruising News:
Transiting my Offshore 40 with 6′ draft N and requested local knowledge on Little River Inlet and received this detailed response from the Captain of the “Big M”
Henry Young
Sir:
The M/V Big M Casino has a draft of 8′-0’. At a low tide of -.9, which is the rarest of low tides, we have been close to the bottom in a couple of places but have not hit. At middle to high tide just stay in the channel.
At low tide, The worst spot is near green #19 near Tilghman Point. There is no good route through there. The channel is wide but the shoaling goes all of the way across. At low tide you still have 8-9′ though.
The next bad spot is on the approach from Tilghman Point to the Calabash Crossroads. Stay slightly to the green side middle.
As you approach the jetty, outbound, don’t go too near green #5. Give it a little extra room and head straight to #4 in the jetty fairway. Outbound, there is some shoaling to your right. Outbound exiting the jetties stay to the right and head to about 150yds to the right of the sea buoy. Do not go to the left. You are good to go anywhere from there.
Hope this helps.
Captain William (Bill) Jacobson, Master
M/V Big M Casino
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Intersection of the AICW and Little River Inlet
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Jun 3, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
URGENT: Support Vessel Needed for a Worthy Cause, SC/NC State Line to VA
The initial support vessel planned for this event has withdrawn due to mechanical problems. Please help Kacie find another!!
This sounds like a wonderful adventure. Contact Kacie Wallace at the email below to determine what requirements are needed to be a support vessel.
Cruising News:
On June 8, World Oceans Day, YOLO Board team rider Kacie Wallace and friend Kimberly Sutton will begin paddling up the North Carolina coast, from the South Carolina state line to Virginia. The two are making the trip to raise awareness of plastics pollution in the ocean. And they’re looking for a support boat to accompany them. kacie.wallace@gmail.com, or visit http://www.supthemag.com/features/industry-news/yolo-board-team-rider-to-paddle-300-miles-for-plastic-pollution-awareness/
You may also reference this website: http://paddleforthenccoastline.weebly.com
HB Koerner
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May 31, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Columbia Marina – Under New Ownership and Completely Rebuilt – On the Beautiful Scuppernong River at Columbia, NC
Red Square Marks Position of Columbia Marina
Long before the Columbia, NC City Docks were constructed, there was a private marina on the Scuppernong River, just downstream of the City Hall, known as Columbia Marina. This facility was, for many years, owned by a local attorney, but was then allowed to languish for quite some time before being purchased in February of 2012 by Captain Tom Clancy (no, not the “Tom Clancy” of “The Hunt for Red October” fame – we asked).
Since that time, as you will read below, this facility has gone through a MAJOR renovation. And while there is currently only one transient wet slip available, Columbia Marina is now a GREAT spot to keep your vessel on a long term basis.
Besides the new docks and dock house services (see below), all of downtown Columbia, featuring several restaurants, a visitor’s center, and a hardware store, is within easy walking distance. In short, what more could you ask of a small town marina facility.
And, lest we forget, Columbia Marina is our newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
So, whether you are just visiting Columbia and the Scuppernong River, or looking for long term dockage, please give Columbia Marina your most serious consideration. Tell Captain Clancy we sent you!
Columbia Marina
In February 2012 Tom Clancy purchased the Columbia Marina in Columbia, North Carolina. During the following year, the marina went through extensive renovations. The dock house was rebuilt with a new bathroom and shower, featuring an antique claw foot bathtub. The dock house also boasts a laundry and kitchen facility with microwave oven, coffee maker and refrigerator for boaters to use. In addition to the dock house there is a gazebo with a gas grill for boaters to use as well. All the bulkheads and slips were rebuilt with new water and electrical service. There are ten boat slips with 30 amp service and 1 transient slip with 50 amp service. The Columbia Marina is located in quaint downtown Columbia on the water front within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants in town. For more information please contact Tom Clancy 919-495-1028.
Columbia Marina

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Columbia Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Columbia Marina
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May 30, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
New City Docks (Plymouth Landing Marina) and Services for Visiting Cruisers at Plymouth, NC, on the Roanoke River, off Western Albemarle Sound
The narrow (compared to other Albemarle Sound rivers) but deep Roanoke River, is the southwesternmost of the nine rivers which feed into Albemarle Sound. In years past, cruising upstream to the community of Plymouth, NC, was frustrating for those looking to find wet slip dockage. There were some wet slips along the city waterfront, but they were forgettable, to say the least. ALL THAT HAS NOW CHANGED IN A BIG WAY FOR THE BETTER!
In late May, 2013, we received the brief report from Captain Jean Thomason below, informing one and all that Plymouth had invested in new docks for visiting cruisers, which were now open, and ready to accept visitors. We requested more information from the cruising community, and this appeal resulted in the second note below authored by Captains Danny and Jan.
Well, clearly there were/are BIG changes afoot in this small community, particularly in regards to their welcoming attitude towards, and services for, visiting cruisers. So, we got on the telephone and had an extensive conversation with Mike Wright, Plymouth’s General Services Director.
The result of all this up close and personal research is very happy news indeed. The town of Plymouth now boasts all-new, fixed, concrete decked wet slips, featuring fresh water and 30-50 amp power hookups, in a facility known as Plymouth Landing Marina. Some slips have 30 amp service and others feature 50 amp hookups. The wet slips designed for larger craft have depths of 12 to 14 feet, while some of the smaller berths have 4.5 to 6 feet of waters. And, we were able to confirm the report from Danny and Jan, that visiting cruisers can enjoy ten day’s free dockage at these fresh city piers, including power and water connections.
The dockage basin lies under the watchful eye of a reproduction of the Roanoke River screw-pile lighthouse. The eye catching feature adds considerably to the visual appeal of this city facility.
Shoreside, mariners will discover climate controlled showers, and a laundromat. Waste pump-out service is available for a very reasonable $5,00. There are two restaurants within walking distance, one of which is open for breakfast. There are also several museums in downtown Plymouth which are well worth your attention.
It’s a hefty 1+ mile walk to Highway 64, where you will find a supermarket and chain drugstore. Those cruising with bicycles will find this an easy trip.
CLEARLY, with all these new facilities, cruisers now have a new, prime destination just off Albemarle Sound. Please help spread the word about Plymouth’s new welcome and new services for visting cruisers.
New Plymouth, NC City Docks and Reproduction Roanoke River Lighthouse
Because our marina (Cypress Cove, formerly IYC) is at Columbia, we often cruise west on Albemarle Sound. Plymouth on the Roanoke River has just opened new town docks. We hear they are nice and free. Plymouth has shops, a museum (with replica of the Abemarle, a Confederate ironclad) and a lighthouse in the historic part of town along the waterfront.
Jean Thomason
I would like to tell everyone about the new town docks in Plymouth NC. Very nice slips (10 slips ) with power and water at no charge. They have very nice rest rooms and showers with a washer and dryer. There is also a pump out with just a 5.00 charge.
We stayed there in April and was very pleased. Oyster Bar short walk away was great. Breakfast at Stella’s down the street was very good. There was also three Museums in easy walking distance.
The east end where the larger slips are the water 12 to 14 feet and the west end on the T we marked 4.5 feet. These slips are not where the old slips are. These are at the west end of town in front of the Light House. Very nice.
Danny and Jan on the Mosey
Plymouth is a great town to visit for it’s Civil War history and all the good things mentioned here. My great grandfather served with the Union army and became a prisoner of war when the town was retaken.
However, there is a charted fixed bridge of 50′ vertical clearance between the town and Albemarle Sound that will keep most sailboats from visiting. We have anchored just before the bridge and used our dinghy. I think we were lucky to not hit a snag with the anchor since the Roanoke River is dense with cypress on both sides.
Harry Burns
S/V Two for the Roads
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Plymouth City Docks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Plymouth City Docks
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May 30, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Fernandina Harbor Marina and Fernandina Beach Dining (Statute Mile 831)
We share Cap’n H’s enthusiasm for downtown Fernandina Beach, Florida. The dining and shopping possibilities are many and deliciously varied. Have not yet given Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro a try, but will have to correct that oversight SOON!
Guys,
We just finished our two day layover at Fernandina Beach before continuing north.
Everyone here is so friendly both around the harbor marina and the town.
Most notable was a simply superior dinner to anything I have experienced in many years. Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro should be on every boaters must do list here. Only two blocks off the harbor marina, the staff, service and food outshine anything in recent memory.
We tried the gumbo and the loaded potato soup for appetizers which were perfect with the fresh homemade bread and olive oil and cracked pepper.
The 14 oz blackened rib-eye was beyond description in its perfection and flavor. The potatoes were superb as was the vegetable medley. The vegetables were cooked to the perfect degree of doneness, not mushy and yet not hard.
If you never stop anywhere else, make it here!.
Cap’n H
We agree. Due to this posting we have been to joes bistro twice and are going there again today. The food is great, the decor is very nice, above what you would expect. The lunch menu runs until three pm and is a great value. And the food is really good.
Dave Bell
We’ve been there [Joe’s Bistro] twice and love it!
Bill
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fernandina Harbor Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fernandina Harbor Marina
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May 29, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Free Dock in Ft. Walton Now Re-Opened, Gulf ICW, Mile 223, Fort Walton Beach, FL
Fort Walton Free Dock - Click for Chartview
The free dock in Ft Walton Beach, located between R6 and R8 on the north side of the ICW, just west of the Brook Bridge, has been closed for repairs and, as Capt. Riggs relates, the dock is now open. The 3 deepest spots are on the SW corner of the dock, 1 being a lay along and the other 2 being the first two slips. Avoid blocking the pump out station as boaters do come to use it and then leave immediately.
Cruising News:
The free dock provided by the City of Ft. Walton, Fl is located just west of the fixed span Brooks Bridge at GICW mile 223. This facility has been closed for repairs for several months. The repairs have been effected, and the dock is now welcoming transient vessels effective May 29, 2013.
Bob Riggs
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Free Dock
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May 29, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net Announces Our New “I”nfo Icon Feature
The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net is pleased to announce an exciting, new feature/capability, which will allow an even closer integration of the “Cruising News” and “Chart View” modules of our web site. And, this same fresh service will also allow our editorial staff to insert comments/information based on our combined 60+ years of cruising experience.
Well, enough of the big build-up. As you have undoubtedly noticed from this section’s title, and the sample icon, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net now has the ability to insert “I”nfo icons on our Chart View pages wherever they might be useful.
About 70% of the time, when you click an “I” icon, a window will open displaying an index of multiple posting titles submitted by your fellow cruisers, which provide meaningful information about the body of water, channel or other nautical feature in question. Clicking any posting title within this window will take you to the full article, which will open in separate window or tab. Once you are finished reading, close the second widow or tab, and you can quickly return to your chart perusal.
Less often, when you click an “I” icon, a window will open displaying the title of an article/posting, created by yours truly and/or the SSECN editorial staff, which imparts some useful navigational tip. And, finally, we will also use the “I” icon to pass along information about historic points of interest.
As always, a couple of examples are worth another thousand words or so. First up, when you clink the link below, a Chart View page will open centered on the AICW Dismal Swamp Canal route, where this passage crosses the Virginia – North Carolina border. You will also see one of the new “I”nfo icons. It may take an extra second or so to appear, so just hang in there.
Click this “I” icon, and a window will open showing a whole list of postings/articles, authored by your fellow cruisers in which they share their experiences while “Doin the Dismal.”
Pick one of the posting titles, click on it, and a new window/tab will open showing the full version of the posting. Close the additional window/tab when you are finished reading, and presto-chango, you’re back to the Chart View page where this process began.
Give it a try at:
/cruisersnet-marine-map/?ll=36.545961357480735,-76.37677428693928&z=14
Here’s another example. Click the link below, and you will be taken to a Chart View page showing the Old House Channel between North Carolina’s Roanoke Sound and Pamlico Sound. You will actually see three “I” icons on this Chart View Page. Click the middle one, near marker #OH. A window will open displaying a posting title, “Change in Marker Colors on Old House Channel.” Click this title, and a new window/tab will open, displaying a short article yours truly has authored concerning a mind bending marker color change along this section of the channel.
Give it a try at:
/cruisersnet-marine-map/?ll=35.76202073127289,-75.56593941192624&z=14
Finally, follow the link below, and you will be transported to the AICW’s passage through South Carolina’s South Edisto River. Notice the “I” icon on shore, east of marker #151. Click this “I” icon, and the index window will appear. Now, click on “Prospect Hill Plantation History and Legend.” You will then have the opportunity to read a fascinating story about this plantation and its original owner.
/cruisersnet-marine-map/?ll=32.58150061777632,-80.39343805647047&z=14
By the way, DON’T FORGET, OUR CHART VIEW PAGES ARE NOT STATIC. All you need do is put your cursor somewhere on the chart, hold down the left mouse button, and drag the chart in whichever direction you prefer. You can drag as far north as Maine, or south to the Florida Keys.
One word of warning! We are just beginning to populate our Chart View pages with the new “I” icons. As of this writing, most are centered on northeastern North Carolina waters. That will change rapidly over the next several weeks, as we place more and more “I” icons!
And, that’s how the new “I” icon works. We hope you find it useful. Our goal is, as always, to provide more and higher quality information that helps the cruising community safely explore and enjoy all Southeastern USA coastal water!
We would welcome hearing comments about this new feature from the cruising community. Just send your “words of wisdom” to CruisersNet@triad.twcbc.com.
Many thanks in advance!
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May 26, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Report from Cumberland Island, GA, off the AICW Statute Mile 697
Brickhill Northern Anchorage - Click for Chartview
Our good friend, Sonny Reeves who lives aboard his boat at nearby Jekyll Harbor Marina, shares details below of a recent trip to magnificently undeveloped Cumberland Island. This isle is found south of St. Andrews Sound, and hard by the eastern flank of the AICW. For the full report, go to http://ontheofficewautoteacher.blogspot.com/2013/05/brickhill-river-ancorage-cumberland.html
Anchored in the Brickhill river around the bend from the primitive campsites. No cell service, no internet. Lots of green flies. Ran off the solar panels and inverter with no problems. Towed the dink. Caught bait and fished but only caught small sharks, Walked to beach saw alligators and an armadillo. Very nice would like to spend a few weeks at the different anchorages in cooler weather. Had a strong south breeze all week. Saw more horses than people.
Sonny Reeves
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Northern Brickhill River Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Brickhill River Anchorage
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May 23, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
FREE NOAA Charting Program Now Available on Android
After seeing the message below from Captain Dave Legrow, I searched the Google Play Store. The app was not easy to find, but finally, after searching under just “NOAA” it came to light. I installed the software on my Asus Infiniti Tablet, and then downloaded all the NOAA charts for the Southeastern USA coastal waters.
The program is basic, BUT the price of both the app, and the charts, is RIGHT, being that all this is free. If you have an Android tablet, you might want to give it a try.
If you do take the plunge, please let us know what you think of this trial software. We will pass your comments along to NOAA!
Today NOAA released a beta charting application for Android. Not legal for commercial, but good enough for recreational. Check it out at:
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2013/20130520_charts.html
Dave
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May 21, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Boat/US Asks For Assistance From the Cruising Community
This just in from our good friends at Boat/US!
May 20, 2013
NEWS From BoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
BoatUS Press Room at http://www.BoatUS.com/pressroom
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
MEDIA ALERT:
Boat Owners Association of The United States
Asks Florida Boaters to Speak up on Florida HB 4001
Repeal of the Ethanol Mandate, Keep Options for Boaters
WHAT: A Florida state law passed in 2008 mandates that all gasoline sold in the state contain 9% to 10% ethanol. Although there is an exception for fuel sold for use in boats, this law has made finding ethanol-free fuel more difficult. HB 4001, which would repeal the sunshine state’s ethanol mandate, has passed the Florida Legislature and now awaits Governor Scott’s signature. In order to keep boaters and angler’s ability to buy ethanol-free fuel for their boat and other small engines, we urge boat owners to ask the Governor to sign HB 4001.
WHY: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) recognizes that renewable fuels are an important part of our nation’s overall energy future and that boaters over the past few years have had some challenges with ethanol. While there can be honest differences of opinion over the merits of using corn-based ethanol as a renewable fuel source, it is clear that many boaters still want options.
A few important items to consider:
There are over 850,000 registered boats in Florida, most of which use gasoline.
Recreational boating is a $10 billion per year industry in the state and employs 40,633 people.
Although boat owners can currently find ethanol-free fuel in some marinas, the state mandate has made it more difficult to find it at gas stations and convenience stores.
While gasoline with ethanol may cost less than ethanol-free gasoline, it also contains less energy, requiring more trips to the pump.
HOW: Please contact Governor Scott to urge him to sign HB 4001. Go to http://www.capwiz.com/boatus/issues/alert/?alertid=62676576&type=SW to easily send Governor Scott a message.
WHO: BoatUS fights against unfair federal taxes, fees and regulations that single out boat owners and works with state agencies to promote boating laws that make sense. In addition to being the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters, BoatUS provides its half a million members with services such as 24-hour on water boat towing as well as roadside assistance for boat trailers and tow vehicles, feature-packed boat insurance programs, money-saving benefits that include marina and West Marine shopping discounts, and vital information that improves the boating, fishing and sailing lifestyle. Its member-funded non-profit BoatUS Foundation is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Go to http://www.BoatUS.com for more.
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May 20, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Cowen Creek Anchorage (South Carolina AICW, Statute Mile 544.5)
I agree with Captain “Rapid Roy’s” comments below, in that if you have a well functioning GPS chartplotter aboard, entry into Cowen Creek is a pretty basic operation. My remarks in the South Carolina Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory are meant for those who do not have one of these electronic marvels. In this instance, there ARE several unmarked shoals which flank the entrance to Cowen Creek, here and there, which require careful DR navigation to avoid.
Hey Claiborne:
I really like your anchoring guides. However, I think you have some flaws in the entry you have for Cowen Creek. (Mile 544.5 on the Beaufort River, between Beaufort SC and Hilton Head). I’d like to suggest some corrections on this one.
1). I think it’s misleading to talk about “negotiating several unmarked shoals”. Yes, if you’re coming from the north, you must go far enough south to clear Cowen spit. If you watch your chartplotter, the entrance to Cowen Creek is wide and deep with NO UNMARKED SHOALS. Take a look at the wider area chart, and this should be self-evident. From the south, it’s a no-brainer. Coming from the north, you’re in good shape if you go far enough south to go around the south side of the old range light charted at 32 degrees 20.12N, 80 degrees 39.34W. Do that, and it’s a wide and deep water entrance with no issues.
2). Your little anchor symbol on the chart photo is way upstream in the creek. Yes, it gets narrower up there, but it’s all protected and nearly always flat water once you’re in the creek. Most cruising boats don’t go that far up to anchor. I’ve seen 3 or 4 cruising boats anchored in the area 32 degrees 21.64N, 80 degrees 38.89W. ( Middle of the creek, abeam of the “o” in “Cowen Cr” label on the chart.)
3). Optionally… there’s another anchorage area for someone who really wants a “Hurricane Hole”. It’s the straight stretch of the creek, t32 degrees 22.99N, 80degrees 38.54W. There is deep water all the way there so it allows even a sailboat to reach these areas, going past private docks on Distant Island and around a double set of bends. It is really protected. .
FYI… ( my credentials for sharing this…) I’m a full time live-aboard cruiser, and spend half of my time living in the Beaufort area and half time cruising on a 38′ sailboat. Cowen Creek is a nice, nearby wilderness anchorage, a few minutes away from the marina. It’s where I take “visitors” when they come to visit my wife and I, and they want to spend a night on the sailboat anchored out. (Smile!).
Rapid Roy
S/V “Gideon”
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cowen Creek
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Cowen Creek
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May 20, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Inlet Marina (Statute Mile 775.5)
Inlet Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, flanks the eastern shores of the AICW, a short hop north of St. Augustine Inlet, and hard by the southern side of the high-rise Vilano Beach Bridge. There is newly opened restaurant on-site, and a new Publix supermarket within walking distance. You can easily provision while filling up those hungry fuel tanks!
Claiborne:
As promised, we stopped at Inlet Marina in St. Augustine Thursday. We checked out the prices on fuel at Comachee Cove, Conch House and the Municipal Marina. Inlet’s price with the usual discounts was .10 – .20/gal less than the others. They do have the best price of any St. Augustine marina on the ICW. Still, it was .15 higher than the price in Jacksonville.
The fuel dock is located on the east side of the ICW between the Villano bridge and the fishing pier, which makes entering look somewhat intimidating. However, there is deep water all the way in and out to both bridges, so maneuvering with our 54′ boat was relatively easy. Dockmaster Jay and his staff are on hand to assist. I would not hesitate to take anything up to 80′ into the dock, although I would be sure to have adequate help on hand if the tide is running or there is a strong wind with a westerly component.
The Publix supermarket is within walking distance, as is the Villano beach on the ocean. There is a good restaurant with Tiki bar on site, and the entire place is dog friendly, which was very important to us. Although the marina does not have transient slip Jay will allow boats to tie up at the fuel dock overnight for $25. There is no electric. There is water, but it does have a strong sulphur odor. The town of Villano provides a free 100′ floating dock located just south of the fishing pier next to Inlet Marina. There are no services, but boats are allowed to tie up all day to visit the town and the beach. Overnights are not technically allowed, but Jay says it is not enforced.
In my opinion, Inlet Marina and the town of Villano Beach are a good place to stop for a day to take on some fuel, re-provision and relax on the beach or at the restaurant.
Bill Root
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Inlet Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Inlet Marina
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May 20, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Report from Mooring Field at Marina Jacks, Sarasota, FL, Statute Mile 73
Marina Jacks - Click for Chartview
Marina Operations/Marina Jacks abuts the east-northeastern shores, to the northeast of red unlighted daybeacon #8A in Sarasota Bay, in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Florida.
The mooring field, which is the subject of Captain Power’s report below, has been controversial, first, because it displaced a very popular anchorage, and secondly, some claim its cost benefit ratio to the city of Sarasota is very much a negative concept. On the other hand, there was a legitimate problem with abandoned and derelict vessels in the old anchorage.
Sarasota IS one of the Florida Pilot Mooring Field Program sites, so the regulations surrounding their mooring field are legal, at least according to Florida state law. Federal law is another matter entirely, but that’s another discussion for another day!
After much controversy in Sarasota, Marina Jacks opened its mooring ball field about a year ago. We recently used the field. The marina management, staff, and facilities are first rate. It is located right downtown with numerous restaurants nearby and a Whole Foods within easy walking distance. The only drawback is that out of the 35 balls, only 3 are set aside for transients. They do take reservations but you will have to move on if your ball is reserved before you want to leave. The daily rate is $20. You can still anchor outside of the field boundaries but it is a lengthy ride to the dinghy dock.
David S. Power
s/v Two If By Sea
The City of Sarasota just approved doubling the number of moorings. The article didn’t mention how many would be for visitors.
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130520/article/130529955
Dawn Moore
The REAL violation is that this entire program is a violation of the right of cruisers to anchor, as provided for in federal regulations. Every single cruiser who uses the balls in Florida’s mooring fields helps to justify this move by the state of Florida on behalf of well heeled waterfront property owners, leading ultimately to a total loss of our anchoring rights.
Sure, it doesn’t seem to mean much to take a ball, but when you support this sort of thing, you empower the bureaucrats who seek to remove our rights.
Think on that the next time anchoring outside the mooring field seems a bit too far for you.
Wally Moran
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Marina Operations/Marina Jacks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marina Operations/Marina Jacks
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May 16, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Delegal Creek Marina (Statute Mile 600)
The poorly marked entrance to Delegal Creek Marina leaves the combined paths of the AICW and Vernon River, immediately north of the infamous Hell Gate section of the Waterway. Captains Chuck and Claria give GOOD advice below for successfully navigating the tricky entrance passage.
The article below is copied from the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association Forum!(http://www.greatloop.org/)
I’ll second the vote for Delegal Creek Marina, at MM 600 on Skidaway Island. Yes, it can be a little tricky getting in there the first time, their channel markers don’t line up with what’s on your chart plotter. Go to http://www.landings.org/delegal-creek-marina-3284 and then click on Delegal Creek Map under Marinas tab for directions on getting in. If you’re coming in with less than + 3′ of water on the tide table, call the marina office for instructions, and if your still a little concerned as to where the deepest water is they will come out and guide you in.
Then if you want a special treat for dinner, call Renee at 912-598-7929 and order Chicken Pot Pies delivered to your boat. Call her a few hours before you get there and she will deliver them hot, if you wait to call her until you get in late in the afternoon, they will be frozen. Of course, a delightful dinner at one of the club houses is always a special treat as well. An inexpensive stop you will enjoy, $.94 per foot with Boat US discount. We now stop every time we go by. It’s a nice 61 mile run from our home in Beaufort, SC.
Chuck and Claria Gorgen
ODYSSEE
We echo Chuck’s comments. The only thing to add is that the current can be tough for docking, especially a single screw. With that said, it is a definite stop and try to time for slack tide, especially when leaving. Dock master is excellent for giving advice on how to dock.
John Winter
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Delegal Creek Marina
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May 16, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Umbrella Cut Alternate AICW Passage (Statute Miles 685.5 to 695.5)
On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:
Statute Mile 695.5 to 685.5 ‘“ anyone cruise the alternate `Umbrella Cut’ AICW passage to bypass St. Andrew Sound this spring? If so, what depths did you discover? Is this passage still a viable alternative for cruising size craft?
Responses follow: (UPDATED on 5/16/13, with the detailed report from Captain Kevin Quinn below)
Cruising News:
I would like to report to you about my horrific day cruising back to Savannah GA from St. Augustine FL on Wednesday the 1st of May 2013 in my Catalina C36 MKII draft 4’3’. The main point of my report is the `Alternate ICW back route around the infamous St. Andrews Sound. Well the weather was as bad as I have seen in years, the wind never dropped below 30 knots all day. I have crossed St. Andrews Sound in rough weather before and the crossing is never good not even in low winds. We were getting bad reports all day from boats that crossed St. A. Sound, none were good. Two things convinced me to go the back way; one the ICW in the Cumberland River was worse than my previous crossings of St. A., two it was one hour before high tide. I fought the Cumberland River above and below the waves to get to the Red `40’ Dayboard and was glad to make the port turn into Floyd Creek and the Red `A34’ Dayboard. Once in Floyd Creek the water calmed and was flat. There was plenty of water but never having gone that way I kept a close eye on the depth gauge. When I turned into the wind at the Green ` A31’ Dayboard the waves were only one foot high but the wind was ripping the tops of the little buggers and throwing them at me horizontally. I could see another sailboat about a mile in front of me. So I felt if he did not stop I would be OK. At the Green `A27’ There is a wreck marked and it is visible at high tide. When I was between the wreck and the `G A27’ I marked 9 feet of depth. Now if you subtract 8 feet of tide from that, at low tide there will not be much water there. At the `G A21’ I also showed 9 feet at high tide. Crossing the Bulkhead there is open water again 4 foot waves and good depth. There was good water and depth all the way to Dover Cut. I entered Dover Cut at the Red `A14’ Dayboard. It looks small and intimidating on the Chartplotter and when you are in it, it is as small and curvy as it looks. But it is deep. That is till you get to the end and it does shallow up. The `R A8’ and `G A9’ are side by side at the entrance to Umbrella Creek and there I marked 9 feet and that is at high tide. Now all the charts I looked at have some warning about the low water in the Umbrella Cut but there I marked 18 feet all the way. From there it is a straight shot across Jekyll Sound to the back side of Jekyll Island but still it was a rough crossing on that day. St. Simon Sound was rougher than any of my St. Andrews Sound crossings and St Simon is completely closed in and protected.
So I made it and it took two hours from the Red `A34’ to the Green `A3’. My recommendation is that you can go the Alternate ICW route around St. Andrews Sound as long as it is two hours before or right at high tide. Even the locals like long time sailor Barney Riley at Golden Isle Marina say they never go that way. There is no local knowledge, I asked Barney, BoatUS and `Down’ the Army Corps of Engineers Hydrostatic boat that happened to be in the area sounding and they all said they had no knowledge and had never been that way. The `Down’ did say they had a boat assigned to that area and hoped to have some data soon.
Kevin Quinn
Came thru here on 4 17 13. Dead low tide. We draw 3 and one half. Saw several spots of 1 or two feet under keel. Also saw a bear cub along the way.
Greg and Donna
on The Lady in Red
Would use St. Andrew Sound in place of Umbrella Cut even if I had to wait out weather for the Sound. 40 foot boat with a 4.5 foot draft.
Raymond W. Smith
“Fire Dog”
My wife and I utilized this alternate route northbound while bringing our GB42 home in June,2012.
We were at near- low tide. We took it slow. We experienced a “light” grounding in a spot that just looked like it was going to be trouble. We were going slow enough to back off and “nose” our way thru by searching for deeper water. At higher tides, for those who want to avoid the “sloppy sound”, this is a great alternative. We would always use this route– unless we have our vessel stabilized.
We still have a hole in our after cabin panelling from a table lamp we forgot to secure, when we came thru the sound and experienced the chaos that the wind, tide and waves can cause.
Clyde Lee
Diane Willis
1987 GB42 CL
“Friendship”
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Umbrella Cut Alternate AICW Passage
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May 12, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Cruising on Albemarle Sound from the AICW to Columbia, NC, on the Scuppernong River
We wish more cruisers would choose to depart the familiar confines of the AICW, and cruise west on Albemarle Sound to this impressive body of water’s many anchorages and ports of call. The Scuppernong River, which makes into the sounds southern banks, west of Alligator River, is one of the best destinations for Albemarle Sound cruising, and the free (for 48-hour) Columbia Town Docks are a great place to rest from your travels. Or, you could choose to pick up a wet slip at Cypress Cove Marina (see below). Either way, it’s well worth your time, IF the Albemarle does not have its dander up!
Because our marina (Cypress Cove, formerly IYC) is at Columbia, we often cruise west on Albemarle Sound. It’s a nice trip if the waves are 2 ft or less and the wind is behind you. Edenton is nice but so is Columbia which has a free dock, a relatively new shower building and a pumpout available. Nice town to stroll around – waterfront boardwalk – several restaurants. Cypress Cove is improved over its former life as IYC – the folks are friendly and helpful and many repairs can be done on-site.
Jean Thomason
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Columbia City Docks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Columbia City Docks
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cypress Cove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Cypress Cove Marina
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May 10, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Airport Marina – Town Creek, Beaufort, NC (near Statute Mile 201)
Town Creek lies just north of Taylor Creek and the principal Beaufort waterfront. This former body of water hosts at least two anchorages, as well as Town Creek Marina, BUT we must say that “Airport Marina” is a new one for us. If anyone else has patronized this facility, WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Please use the “Comment” function below or follow the “Click Here to Contribute Cruising News” link, on the above right of this, and all (except Chart View), SSECN pages, and share your impressions of Airport Marina!
We have a Pearson 303, 4.5′ draft, and planned on anchoring in Town Creek, after finding so many unused mooring balls in Taylor creek that it looked like they might tangle our anchor. This was the end of April. We found Airport Marina, right next to Town Creek Marina, a bargain at $10 per night including water and power. Owner loaned us a car to go shopping.
Captn. Rob Loew and mate Sandy
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Town Creek in Beaufort, NC
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May 10, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Unusual Incident at Great Bridge Lock, AICW Statute Mile 11.5
Great Bridge Lock - Click for Chartview
As Capt. Conover states this should not happen often. Have you heard of similar issues of who controls vessels in the lock? Let us hear from you.
Just a warning. Last year a sailing vessel in the locks got rigging stuck in the lights, a light was damaged..and while the vessel was under control of the “dockmaster”..and against maritime law..the vessel was charged 5K for repair of the light. someone really needs to check with the lockmaster, and get the RULES. Once a vessel is under control of the locks..lines tied or handled by the shore crew..who is responsible for damages. When does the control go back to the captain. I would think as soon as vessel EXITS the lock, not when the lines are tossed (and the vessel raised up into the light system). This should not happen often..but flooding cause a several foot rise..and with a sailboat with a 65 ft mast/and a 8 foot topsail..(sideways)..they sure got a scare and a BIG BILL.
Joan Conover
SV Growltiger
Hampton VA
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s NC-VA Bridge Directory Listing For Great Bridge Lock
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Great Bridge Lock
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May 9, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Report from Big Foot Slough Channel, off the AICW in Pamlico Sound
Big Foot Slough - Click for Chartview
Big Foot Slough Channel is the primary entrance from Pamlico Sound to Ocracoke and Silver Lake Harbor and is used by the vast majority of cruising craft and both Ocracoke car ferries. It is a narrow channel and caution should always be exercised. Based on Capt. Deharts’ observations, last year’s shoaling in the channel seems to have been alleviated by dredging completed last November, 2012. Therefore, we are cancelling the Navigation Alert posted early last year.
Cruising News:
No problems with Big Foot Slough channel into Ocracoke. Minimum depth I saw on a trip there last week was 14 feet. Still some shoaling on the green side just after you enter the channel, but these areas are well marked by cans. If you have never been there or haven’t been there in a while, remember it is green to starboard when approaching Ocracoke from the sound!
Sykes DeHart
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Big Foot Slough
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May 7, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Chartplotter and Charting Issues at Cumberland Dividings AICW Problem Stretch, (Statute Mile 704)
Cumberland Dividings - Click for Chartview
Cumberland Dividings, just north of where the AICW intersects the southerly reaches of the Brickhill River, has multiple problems. First, some charts and chartplotters show the magenta fairway line running on the western side of the red markers in this area. Those who blindly follow this erroneous magenta line will run aground every time. Also, and perhaps even worse, the Waterway is shoaling badly along its western flank, north of marker #63.
AICW MM704 Cumberland Dividings Problem
We transited this area northbound this afternoon. I was watching a Garmin chartplotter (new 2011) and the newest NOAA raster chart displaying on a laptop at the lower steering station sent to my Nexus via a VPN connection. Even the newest NOAA raster chart shows the magenta line to the west of the red daymarks (the real channel is to the east side of the daymarks). The daymarks are properly marked with the ICW triangle. A sailboat following us failed to honor the red daymarks – fortunately they stayed very close to the red (even though they were was leaving them on his starboard side) and made it through. The most current NOAA ENC chart has the correct course passing over dry land based on our track.
This same problem has existed since at least 2005 or so. How long does it take NOAA to correct a chart?
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Cumberland Dividings
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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