Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Feb 26, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Report from Georgetown Dry Stack Marina (formerly Boat Shed Marina), AICW Stetute Mile 403
Georgetown Dry Stack Marina - Click for Chartview
Georgetown Dry Stack Marina guards the northeastern banks of the Sampit River along the downtown Georgetown Waterfront.
Headed south from Beaufort, NC on ICW. Stopped over at the old Boat Shed Marina in Georgetown. It is now called Georgetown Dry Stack Marina. This is a very recent event as is evidenced by some improvements which hopefully will be undertaken very soon.
The people are very friendly and this facility should improve to be a nice stopover.
Mens and Womens restrooms and showers need some attention but are adequate.
Dockage is $1.50 per foot and $5 per day for 30 or 50 amp electrical per day or $10 for both.
One note, I could not raise the marina on the radio and had to call at 843-546-1700. Hopefully, they will be equipped with handheld radios before long. Address is 18 South St. James Street, Georgetown, SC 29440. email at gdsm5461700@gmail.com
Harold `Cap’n H’ O’Briant
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Georgetown Dry Stack Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Georgetown Dry Stack Marina
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Feb 25, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Julington Creek Anchorage, off the St. Johns River Between Jacksonville and Green Cove Springs
Julington Creek is a wide stream that intersects the eastern banks of the St. Johns River, east of marker #15. In addition to the anchorage, two marinas are also located here.
There is a wonderful anchorage off the St Johns River south of Jacksonville. Called Julington Creek or Bulls Bay. There are restaurants,
Fresh Market grocery store and a wonderful little park called Mandarin Park. Would highly recommend this stop for anyone taking the side trip on the St Johns River.
David and Sharron Knisely
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Julington Creek Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Julington Creek Anchorage
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Feb 25, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More on “The Crab Shack” on Sixmile Creek (off the St. Johns River, south of Green Cove Springs)
Outback Crab Shack on Sixmile Creek
There was a recent discussion on the T&T (Trawlers and Trawlering) list about the famous Crab Shack Restaurant, just off the St. Johns River, south of Green Cove Springs. Over the years, we’ve had many postings here on the Cruisers’ Net about this WONDERFUL place to slake a healthy appetite. From time to time, though, it’s good to recall this St. Johns River dining attraction!
To access this facility, cruise into Palmo Cove, along the eastern banks of the St. Johns River, well east – southeast of river marker #22. Be sure to avoid the long tongue of shoal water which stretches out from this cove’s northside entrance point.
Sixmile Creek stretches out from the southeastern corner of Palmo Cove. Be advised that you may have to cruise through some 4 1/2 foot soundings to reach the stream’s mouth, and again as you approach the restaurant’s docks.
If you can stand these depths, the effort is well worthwhile!
I would highly recommend six mile creek and the outback crab shack. The food is great and you can dock there free. There are no utilities but the dock is in excellent condition and 1500 ft long. It is an unusual place and one that you will talk about even after you finish the loop. The approach in the bay appears shallow there was plenty of water and once you get close to the creek, it becomes 15-20 feet deep. We liked it so much, we stopped on our way in and back on our way out from Sanford.
John and Carol Sagel
Add our names to the recommendation for Six Mile Creek and docking at the Outback Crab Shack – what a great stop. The way in is worryingly shallow, but we made it in and out twice with no problems. Be prepared to take home some of the food if you eat there – big portions!
Tom Sanders
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Palmo Cove and Six Miles Creek
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, In Satellite Photo (“Hybrid”) Mode, Zoomed To the Location of the Crab Shack on Six Mile Creek
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Feb 25, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Survey Request from St. Augustine Cruisers Net, St. Augustine, FL
An interesting survey that gives you an opportunity to express opinions about your cruising experiences in St. Augustine. After opening the link below, click Next to begin the survey.
Cruising News:
The St Augustine Cruisers Net would is looking to understand what brings people to St Augustine or not and why. Please complete our survey at:
https://www.ittagteam.com/survey/index.php/55688/lang-en
Thank you.
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Feb 23, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
A Request for Route Recommendations, Fort Myers to Homestead (Biscayne Bay)
Here is a another fellow boater looking for local knowledge and suggestions. His journey will encompass navigating the waters of Southwestern Florida past Naples, then Marco Island, then past the Ten Thousand Island region, and finally past Cape Sable, eventually ending up in the Florida Keys. At this point, a northward turn via the FLK Inside Route, will take him to his goal on the Eastern Florida shoreline in Biscayne Bay.
As of 2/25/13, Captain Kris has received some excellent advice from Captains Donovan and Bell below
Hello,
I’m planning or rather need to go from Fort Myers to Black Point marina in Homestead [south of Miami on the mainland shores of Biscayne Bay – editor]. Was reading the postings and looking at the chart and have a few questions regarding the posts.
The comment `winter waves’ ‘“ should I expect high seas in February? I generally like deep water so was planning to stay somewhat deep but I saw some posts that said charts are wrong.
Cape Sable shoals ‘“ is this difficult to navigate?
Boat. 34ft sail, 4.0 draft, 52’8 must height. 27 horse diesel.
Experience moderate. Looks like I enter the channel just south of east cape. couple questions:
1. What stops do you recommend?
2. Does the inter-coastal run cleanly all the way up from the inside or do I need to go outside?
3. Heading towards Marathon looks interesting because the water is deeper.
I appreciate any advice.
Kris
You will need to go outside at least until Gordon Pass at Naples where you can anchor in Port Royal or go downtown for a mooring or dockage. From there, inside to Marco is doable with the right tide as is inside to coon Key, but it is tricky in spots, so outside is easier. You can anchor in Factory Bay or Smokehouse Bay or dock in Marco. Cape Sable Shoals are not to be taken lightly so, if you go outside, you need to go pretty far south before turning Eastward (you can `jump the light ‘˜). There are other anchorages before Little Shark, but I haven’t used them and they would depend on the strength and direction of the winds. Anything at or above 20 from any other direction than North will be uncomfortable and we get lots of fronts this time of year.. From Little Shark it’s a straight run down to Marathon. Of course, you could do an `allnighter’ directly from Ft. Myers.
Donovan
You can anchor a mile inside Gordens Pass, then at Factory Bay in Marco. You can safely cut cape Ramano at the lime stone channels and anchor in calm water up the left hand fork heading towards Everglades City then a easy run to Boot Key Harbor. Email me if you want route, anchorage way point and draft information. We have a five foot draft 41 Hunter that has been on this route at least eight times. Email info is patriotus@comcast.net for info from 41 Hunter.
Dave Bell
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Feb 16, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Missing Marker in Darien River Replaced, off the AICW departing at Statute Mile 653
There are several rivers flowing into the AICW stretch, just north of infamous Little Mud River. Darien River departs westward at marker #183, and runs upstream to an interesting city marina/dock at the charming community of Darien, Georgia. Here you will find free 48-hour dockage and a host of interesting restaurants and other businesses.
Darien, Georgia - Click for Chartview
Marker R26 between ICW and Darien GA has been replaced by CG with a lighted red floating marker. Also .. pay attention to R12 which may seem too close to marsh but IS NOT! Go slow and pay attention. 48 hrs free dockage for cruisers. Ya’ll come! 48 HOURS FREE DOCKAGE/WATER/ELEC FOR 48 HOURS’¦NON-COMMERCIAL ONLY.
David Butler, Darien Dockmaster
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Darien City Docks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Darien, GA
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Feb 6, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
New St. Johns River/Lake George Cruising Opportunity
Well, at least this off-the-beaten-path side trip is new to me. After cruising the St. Johns for 30+ years, the note below from Captains Jim and Vaughn, is the first I’ve heard of Salt Springs. But, sure enough, I checked the charts, and there it was, just as Jim and Vaughn point out below, in the northwestern corner of Lake George.
A study of the charts reveals that this is certainly an anchor off – dinghy in sort of cruising attraction, and it would be a very good thing indeed to have a well functioning chartplotter aboard, so as to avoid the shelf of 1-foot shoals extending out from the creek’s mouth.
Otherwise, this sounds like a really neat place to explore (again, by dinghy), and the SSECN would WELCOME accounts from other cruisers who have visited this stream. Please follow the “Click Here to Contribute Cruising News” link on the upper right of this, and all (except Chart View) SSECN pages, and share your experience!
But, there is another Spring to the North that can be a lot of fun. It’s a nicer facility and spring in our opinion. It’s Salt Springs in the northwest corner of the lake. We anchored out and took two dingies up there last year. There are some no wake zones so we just rafted up and enjoyed the ride along the river. Great day trip! Take your mask and snorkel to this spring. You can dive down into the spring openings, probably 10-12 feet. A longer ride up the river but it’s worth the trip just to see it. Same swimmable temperatures year round….and crystal clear.
Jim & Vaughn Quince
Saw the post about Silver Glen Springs and wondered why Salt Springs wasn’t mentioned. Then, just read the Salt Springs info. I visited there last April and indeed, it is pretty. Captains Quince are correct about the one foot depth at the opening of the `run’. Went agorund in my dinghy, but just jumped over and walked til deeper water. It’s a beautiful ride of about 2 or ? miles up the run and to the pool. There I thru out the anchor in about 2 ft. of water and walked/ swam into the main pool. Plan on returning sometime this April.
`Southern Latitudes’
42′ performance trawler
Saw the post about Silver Glen Springs and wondered why Salt Springs wasn’t mentioned. Then, just read the Salt Springs info. I visited there last April and indeed, it is pretty. Captains Quince are correct about the one foot depth at the opening of the `run’. Went agorund in my dinghy, but just jumped over and walked til deeper water. It’s a beautiful ride of about 2 or ? miles up the run and to the pool. There I thru out the anchor in about 2 ft. of water and walked/ swam into the main pool. Plan on returning sometime this April.
`Southern Latitudes’
42′ performance trawler
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Lake George and Salt Springs Creek
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Feb 4, 2013by: Claiborne Young 1 Comment 29.5084,-81.6789999
Cruising the Upper St. Johns River – Palatka to Sanford (Lake Monroe)

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I could not possibly agree more with the sentiments presented below by Captains Bill and Kathleen Root. If you have not cruised the upper St. Johns River from Palatka to the city of Sanford on Lake Monroe, you have, quite simply missed some of the best and most unique cruising in the Sunshine State.
There are myriad opportunities to spend an evening on the hook, about as far removed from civilization as you are likely to get this day and time. The “Seven Sisters” come to mind, as does “Bucher’s Bend.” There are even some superb dining opportunities, and an adequate number of friendly marinas.
The only caveat, as noted below, is that you want to be SURE your diesel tanks are topped off before cruising south from Jacksonville. Diesel fuel can be tough to come by on the upper St. Johns!
We would very much like to hear from more of you who have explored the St. Johns between Palatka and Sanford. Please follow the “Click Here to Submit Cruising News” link on the above, right side of this page, and share your experiences with the rest of the cruising community!
You definitely do not want to miss the lower St. Johns River from Palatka to Sanford. It’s the best part of the river, much nore interesting than the Dismal Swamp. Just be sure you fuel up with Diesel in Jacksonville because diesel can be hard to find farther south. Some marinas that advertise it may not have it when you want it.
Sanford is our home port. There are several marinas in Sanford that will accomodate transients. Each has it’s advantages and disadvantages, and Acosta Creek marina just north of Lake George is run by very friendly and accommodating folks. We stop there every time we go north. Cafe Blue is an extraordinary restaurant located a short cab ride from Acosta Creek that really shouldn’t be missed.
Regarding Silver Glen Springs, I agree that no boat over 25 feet should attempt to enter it. However, there is great anchoring just off the mouth of the river running into the springs, so drop the hook and dinghy in. A little farther south you can anchor across from Blue Springs and dinghy into the park. There are plenty of fine anchorages all along the St. Johns for boats under 40 feet in length and 4 foot draft, and several that will accommodate boats up to 55 feet.
Bill & Kathleen Root
MV BUFFALO GAL
54′ Hatteras MY
Lisa and I did the ST Johns a couple years ago, spent almost a month exploring. The water was a little higher then and we were able to get into Silver Glen Springs with our (at that time) 4 1/2′ draft but it was touch and go even then. If you’re thinking of cruising the St Johns and want to view photo’s you can check out the following posts on our blog.
http://www.favorsgreatloopblog.com/category/our-new-loop-adventure/5-great-loop-st-johns-river-fl/#.URELH6XrbzI
Jim Favors
Kismet
Ranger Tug R27
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Acosta Creek Harbor
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Acosta Creek Harbor
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Jim Tracey - July 14, 2018 - 10:49 am

I direct your attention to the fact that the online article’s (below) title is the “UPPER” St John’s River. This is incorrect. The St. John’s river flows south to north and, therefore, the northerly-most section is correctly referred to as the LOWER St. John’s River. A reader’s (Bill & Kathleen Root) letter just below your title correctly refers to the very same stretch (Palatka to Sanford) as the “LOWER” St. John’s River….FYI
Jim Tracey
Reply to Jim
Feb 4, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Great Photo of the New Gilmerton Bridge, AICW Statute Mile 5.8
Gilmerton Bridge - Click for Chartview
Captain Mike Glover was kind enough to send us this excellent photo of the newly reconstructed and re-opened Gilmerton Bridge in Norfolk.
Great shot! For those not familiar with the Gilmerton ‘“ there are actually two bridges shown in this photo. The closer, open, span is the automated Norfolk Southern RR bridge; Gilmerton is the closed lift span.
Allan DeWall
Gilmerton Bridge from the South
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Feb 3, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Anchoring on the Eastern Shore Lake Worth Channel (Palm Beach, near St. M. 1018.5)
Study chart 11472, and look at the waters south of Lake Worth Inlet. You will quickly spot a marked channel which parallels the eastern shore of Lake Worth. It is actually possible, for those piloting vessels that draw 4 feet or less, to follow this channel several miles to the south and eventually rejoin the AICW. Not that we are recommending that for first timers, but many local captains take this route day in and day out.
In regards to anchoring on these waters, in our SSECN Eastern Florida Anchorage Directory we suggest dropping the hook near the northern head of this side channel, east-southeast of marker #2. The Lucas duo (see below) chose to continue south on the eastern Lake Worth channel and anchor, well south of marker #6 and east of the northernmost of the two charted, rectangular “Spoil Areas.”
Sounds like in spite of the passing traffic, they had an enjoyable evening!
We are rookies at this, use this very helpful site, and it is nice to be able to contribute. We arrived for the first time in Lake Worth yesterday, planning to use this anchorage but were unprepared for the crowding we encountered! The detail chart (11472_7) helped us cruise slowly south past red markers 2,4 and 6 to the open area between cable markings and south of all the mooring fields. We anchored east of the first of two large rectangular spoil area in 17 ft of water, hoping that if we swung we’d stay clear. To our surprise, several large (meaning 100+ ft) yachts passed us, went near or over the spoil areas on their approach to the huge marina east of our position. After dark a large dinner cruiser circled around the spoil area before heading south in the ICW. Boats continued to use the channel between us and the eastern shore well into darkness, but everyone was at idle speed. We left our radio on, but no one told us to move and we spent a peaceful night.
Again, thank you! Our experience has been made much better with this site; the information and updates have been essential to keeping us from making serious mistakes along the way on that is our “shakedown cruise”.
Tim and Lisa Keith-Lucas, Santa Catalina de Guale
Great anchoring information and correct is so far as it goes.
Please be advised that the eastern channel discussed ends just north of the Flagler Bridge, (the first on the ICW south of Lake Worth Inlet) south of the marina discussed (Sailfish Club on Palm Beach). This channel becomes very shoal (less than 1 foot MLW).
If you choose to utilize this channel for a quiet, calm anchorage, and want to continue further south on the ICW, you may need to backtrack further north before you can cross the lake westbound to reconnect with the ICW (which runs down the west side of the ICW north of the Flagler Bridge) without grounding in the middle of the lake.
Capt. Ken Wright,
North Palm Beach
There are a LOT of boats anchored all over this general area. And the mega yachts do use that eastern channel. We ran down this channel from the inlet past marker 6 and saw depths over 20′. The anchorage had plenty of space for us with over 8′ of depth. A dredging operation was setting up as we left last Tuesday. one report was they were dredging that channel to accommodate the megayachts. Not sure if that is accurate but there is some major dredging setting up in the area. The space close to the inlet was very crowded so having all the extra space is great. Shore access at Rivera Beach marina might be charged $20, no open wifi.
Ted
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Lake Worth Inlet Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Lake Worth Inlet Anchorage
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Feb 1, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Mangrove Marina – Florida Keys Inside Route – Key Largo (Statute Mile 1150)
Mangrove Marina is one of only a very few facilities offering transient dockage on the Florida Keys Inside Route between a point south of Jewfish Creek, and Snake Creek. To access Mangrove Marina, depart the Inside Route just northeast of the Tavernier Creek intersection, between markers #64A and #65.
Note that Mangrove Marina also features a full service repair yard!
With the weather forecast predicting a change in wind direction to WSW on Wednesday night and Thursday, we knew we would soon need to move, so today we headed north 20 miles to Mangrove Marina, located at Tavernier in a very
protected and lovely harbor. This is a great spot for relatively shallow draft vessels to sit out bad weather. They have lots of live-aboards here, nice restrooms/showers and laundry (6 washers and 6 dryers), shopping nearby (half mile), plus a rental car place just a couple of blocks away.
So, we’re opting to drive to Key West from here while the wind continues to howl for the next several days.
Sharon and Ken Vogel
Gold Loopers
M/V Docker’s Inn
Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Mangrove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Mangrove Marina
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Feb 1, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
A Good Visit to Everglades City and the Rod and Gun Club (Western Florida Coastline, South of Marco Island)
Everglades City, accessed via the Indian Key – Barron River channel, south of Marco Island and Coon Key Pass, is a slice of OLD Florida. This is what the Sunshine State looked like as a boy when I was spending winters here in the 1950’s and early 60’s.
The only real place for cruising size craft to dock in Everglades City is the Rod and Gun Club. This historic structure features its own marina and on-site restaurant.
The channel leading from Indian Key to Everglades City gets rather shallow in places at low water. Captains piloting vessels drawing more than 4 feet or more may want to time their passage for mid to high tide.
We left Naples on Saturday the 26th, bypassed Marco Island and the Cape Romano Shoals, and then turned in through the Ten Thousand Islands to Everglades City and the famous Rod and Gun Club, where unbeknown to us a wedding was about to begin on the grounds. In fact, the father of the bride very graciously caught a line for us (since they don’t monitor VHF and didn’t answer the phone upon our approach). What a neat little town and a worthwhile stopover. We did hit bottom once (we draw 3.5 – 4 ft. depending on how much fuel and water is weighing us down) on our way back out the channel the next morning at low tide.
Sharon and Ken Vogel
Gold Loopers
M/V Docker’s Inn
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Rod and Gun Club
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Rod and Gun Club
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Jan 31, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Shallow Water But Great Natural Beauty in Silver Glen Springs – St. Johns River/Lake George
Silver Glen Spring Run is a narrow stream that pierces the western banks of Lake George (between Palatka and Astor on the St. Johns River), west of marker #9. These waters rise from natural springs, and are usually crystal clear. This makes the “basin” (mentioned below) a very popular stop for houseboats and pontoon boats. Years ago, a buddy and I spent a very happy afternoon snorkeling these beautiful waters.
HOWEVER, depths here have always been SKIMPY, to say the least! And now we hear below from Captain Betsy Johnson, that the “outgoing” channel is so shallow their 3-foot draft catamaran ran hard aground, and they had to be towed! There was only one channel when last I visited, but clearly that has changed.
So, at least for the time being, the best plan to visit Green Cove Springs is to anchor in Lake George, east of Silver Glen Spring’s mouth, and dinghy into the stream.
Has anyone else tried to visit here lately. If so, we would like to hear about your experience. Please follow the “Click Here to Contribute Cruising News” link to the above right, and share your information!
Over the years, many Loopers have suggested a trip into Silver Glen Springs, off the St. Johns River. That was one of the main reasons we are taking this side trip on the St. Johns River. Once we worked our way in there this week we ended up waiting for TowBoat US for several hours when we ran aground and couldn’t work our way off. We are a power catamaran and draw less than 3 feet. Apparently the water is very low now. Following the channel in was no problem and depths were showing 7 feet or more. But once we got into the “pool” there were many locals already there, on a weekday. We decided we did not want to stay so tried to continue in the markers for the channel heading back out. (They have it marked for an incoming and outgoing channel, as they are so narrow boats can’t pass). OOPS! Once we hit bottom (hard packed sand) we could not get off, and we were right between two markers….could reach out and touch them they were so close.
Our recommendation would be to not go into this spot that has been so
popular in the past. Lesson learned was to be sure to have your tow company (TowBoat US for us this time) paid up. The fact that there was a large TowBoat US banner on one of the abandoned boats in the pool should have
told us something!
We recommend that all Loopers have both TowBoat US and SeaTow (we do), because you never know when you might need them and having both covers you in all areas of the Loop.
A final note: if you do choose to go into Silver Glen Springs, be sure to clean your strainers the minute you are out, or even before. The undergrowth is pervasive!
Betsy Johnson
Rick ‘n Roll
currently lying Hontoon Landing State Park on the St. John’s River
Cruising News:
The markers in the glen are not navigation markers, [even though] they look like nav markers. They are for traffic control. During the summer weekends there may be as many as 2,000 boats day tripping and the LEO need these to patrol and prevent anchoring in the “channel”. There is plenty of depth 6+ on the southside. If you can cross the shallow entrance there is plenty of water in the spring run. 25+ boating into the “Glenn”
Harry Gillean
We did Silver Glen Springs in 2010 but anchored out in Lake George, about 1/2 mile from the spring entrance, and took the dingy into the spring. It is well worth seeing the crystal clear water, Alligators lounging and other
wildlife.
Ray & Linda
SUMMERTIME
We anchored way out from Silver Glen Springs and took the dinghy into the springs. We found the way in to be far too shallow for our 5 ft draft. We enjoyed the springs and found it well worth the effort. A local volunteered to take the women aboard our dinghy back to our boat as he thought the Lake George waters were rough and we would all be wet. We appreciated his concern and enjoyed meeting another boater.
Great side trip!!!
Joy Poole
While it is a beautiful side trip, avoid the “weekend warriors” at all cost. Expect heavy traffic from Sanford to the springs! Several hundred boats packed in with FWC and three county Marine Patrol Units keeping them sorted out isn’t worth it. BTW- it’s designated as a “NO Alcohol Area” once you enter the channel and you’re not allowed to go ashore to the park. Monday ~ Thursday is the most enjoyable.
Frank M Howell
We so enjoyed our sojourn on the St. Johns. We actually turned back to visit Silver Glen Springs along with our friends Beth and Dean on Kismet. We too were worried about the clearance and chose to anchor out in the lake and dinghy in. We almost ran aground in the dinghy but when we reached the springs area there was a huge cruiser anchored in there. We could not figure how it got in but there it was. Apparently the locals knew something we did not.
Swimming in those springs was a real highlight of our Loop. There were large silver fish down in the spring and when the sun hit just right you could see how the springs got their name. We had hiked up to the ranger station to pay an admission fee and were told as long as we came by boat and stayed around the edge of the spring there was no fee.
If I had to do the Loop all over, and we may, I would take the time to swim in every spring.
Rusty and Jan Carlisle
I cruised to Silver Glen Springs twice during the week days during winter/2012, drawing 3 feet in my 24 cabin cruiser with an I/O. I had no problem navigating the water depths, however there is a lot of kelp-like underwater growth near the entrance of the spring, reaching to the surface, probably due to the effects of the warm water. Near the beginning of the stream’s entrance on the left, there is a large, private fishing club. There were three boats present both times near the terminus of the waterway in about six feet of water; two were pontoon houseboat rentals, and the third was a 34’ Mainship with it’s bow on the beach sand. It was unoccupied (possibly except for weekends.) The first trip I launched at Ed Stone Park at Deland, FL(overnight excursions are permitted, but it’s a somewhat long trip through what is similar to the scenic Great Dismal Swamp.) On my second trip, the park ranger suggested a private launch site only a few miles north of the national forest at Moodys rivate ramp ($10 per day, private ramp.) The ranger said the FWC and the local police were `actively enforcing’ alcohol/drugs and absence of clothing issues by those rafting up on the weekends and acting `wild’ which disturbed the national park visitors family atmosphere. The park even has an ice cooler inspection for their guests. I encountered no inspection issues during my mid-week stayovers of two and three days. The park is has a bouyed line of floats separating it from the area accessible to boaters. The National Forest website for this part is
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recarea/?recid=37199
Gary Koerner
Regarding Silver Glen Springs, I agree that no boat over 25 feet should attempt to enter it. However, there is great anchoring just off the mouth of the river running into the springs, so drop the hook and dinghy in.
Bill & Kathleen Root
MV BUFFALO GAL
Lisa and I did the ST Johns a couple years ago, spent almost a month exploring. The water was a little higher then and we were able to get into Silver Glen Springs with our (at that time) 4 1/2′ draft but it was touch and go even then. If you’re thinking of cruising the St Johns and want to view photo’s you can check out the following posts on our blog.
http://www.favorsgreatloopblog.com/category/our-new-loop-adventure/5-great-loop-st-johns-river-fl/#.URELH6XrbzI
Jim Favors
Kismet
Ranger Tug R27
Silver Glen Springs is one that shallower draft boats may be able to get in to depending on Lake water levels. Local knowledge will help a lot. We anchored out and took out dink in there. There are some pretty large boats in the shallows there and lots of bottom scars near the entrance to prove it. Probably busiest on weekends. It’s our understanding that you can visit the springs without charge as long as you don’t touch land. You can get a short term pass for using the bathroom. No alcohol and don’t dare tie to the trees! We talked with a NF ranger about this place and the rules.
Jim & Vaughn Quince
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Silver Glen Spring Run
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Jan 30, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Fellow Cruiser Asks Your Advice re Peck Lake Anchorage, AICW Statute Mile 992
Capt. Moran is an experienced cruiser who is wise enough to seek local knowledge, even in an area formerly visited. Let us hear from you if you have an answer for Capt. Moran.
Over the years, we have found that the best entry point from the AICW, into the anchorage seems to move. So, it would be invaluable if several of you who have visited here recently shared where you found the best water.
PLEASE follow the “Click Here to Submit Cruising News” link to the upper right of this, and all (except Chart View) SSECN pages, and share your information
I’ve been here several times, but it would be most helpful to know the exact entry point off the ICW to get into this anchorage. I’ve always depended on the kindness of those in this anchorage before me to guide me in due to the challenge of finding the ‘˜sweet spot’ to get over that bar’¦and passed it by on those occasions when some braver soul had not already ‘˜done the deed’ before me. Hints anyone?
Wally Moran
We are currently anchored in Peck Lake with winds up to 20 knots and good holding. The beach is really nice but cruiser’s with pets should know no dogs allowed. There are a lot of no seeums even with the wind at dusk and dawn.
Pam Neff
And, as usual, the cruising community has responded magnificently, with the generous advice below:
Leave ICW immediately south of G19. Head toward weather station on timber structure just off beach. As you get in to deeper water, head north again until water begins to shallow. Circle back to the south and anchor. There is lots of room, and holding is good. No problem with four foot draft.
Dogs ARE allowed on the ICW side of the park. They are not allowed east of the dune line. I contacted the park superintendent, and he confirmed this in an email to me. We were there with our dog on January 11, 2013
Norman Mason
Peggy Sue
Monk 36
Hi Claiborne,
I must tell you about our first visit to Peck Lake several years ago.
We had just purchased our first trawler, a second hand Mainship 390 in Fort Lauradale, it had come equipped with an Avon dingy and small outboard engine. So I dropped the hook for the first time at Peck Lake. I got the deflated dingy out of the engine compartment, inflated it and attached it to the swim platform, then I attached the outboard which was mounted up on the fly bridge, connected the fuel tank, with questionable fuel, primed it, but it wouldn’t go. After I had cleaned the fuel bowl and spark plug to no avail, Linda got the manual out. I might say by this time the dogs needed a potty break on the shore, they were all getting a little impatient with me. I promised we would stay in a marina the next day. I had always been familiar with Johnson and Evenrude engines, but this was one with the safety key neatly attached on a short chain to the engine and I had overlooked plugging it in. Naturally she pointed this out to me and the engine started immediately. We stayed at Peck Lake for three days and had a wonderful time playing with the dogs on the Atlantic side of the strip of land not approachable by land.
Great memories and probably the best anchorage on the ICW.
Graham Pugh
Kando 11
New Bern NC
From just south of marker 19 go directly toward the tide station ( platform). Anchorage is good on both sides of that line. Don’t go more than 150 yards to the south of that line. Depths run 6 to 8 feet.
Mike Koverman
We’ve anchored at Peck Lake with our two labradors, and they have enjoyed running on the beach on the Atlantic side. Never saw any signs saying `no dogs allowed’
Graham Pugh
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Peck Lake Anchorage
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Jan 29, 2013by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.6838,-77.12279999
Welcome Dredging in Problem Stretch: AICW/Bogue Inlet Intersection, Statute Mile 227, Swansboro, NC

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AICW Bogue Inlet Intersection – Click for Chartview
The Bogue Inlet/AICW intersection has long been an “AICW Problem Stretch” and the dredging detailed below is welcome news. Not only is perennial shoaling a problem for AICW cruisers at this intersection, but the inland-most marker (#20) on the Bogue Inlet channel is often mistaken for an AICW aid to navigation. This mis-identification often leads to groundings.
NC ‘“ NEUSE RIVER TO MYRTLE GROVE SOUND (AICW) ‘“ WHITE OAK RIVER CROSSING ‘“ DREDGING
The Dredge WILKO will be conducting dredging operations in the AICW at the following locations/dates:
White Oak River Crossing-26 January until 31 January, 2013.
Floating rubber and submerged polyethylene pipelines will transport dredge spoil to the Upland Disposal Area 64 from the White Oak site. The dredge and assisting vessels MISS LEANNE and PROUD MARY will monitor VHF-fm CHANNELS 13, 16 and 78. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations. Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment. Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel. Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment. Owners and lessees of fishnets, crabpots and other structures that may be in the vicinity and that may hinder the free navigation of attending vessels and equipment must be remove these from the area where tugs, tenderboats and other attendant equipment will be navigating. Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week, all fishnets, crabpots and structures in the general area must be removed prior to commencement of any work. A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels passing the dredge and if necessary to clarify a SAFE PASSAGE contact the dredge on the appropriate VHF-FM channels. Chart: 11541.
We passed through Swansboro 1/27/13. The dredge Wilco was working in the ICW near Dudley’s Marina.
Bill Murdock
Earlier Reports:
We passed through this area [on the AICW] at 1012 on 11/15/2012 (2 hours after high tide) and found no problems. The key to this is to stay close to the docks on the north [mainland – editor] or (southbound) starboard hand. Doing this we found 15-20′ most of the way.
Richard B. Emerson
We passed thru bogue sound inlet [AICW intersection] on 12/06/12 in a 6 foot draft power boat & found a minimum of 14 & mostly 15 to 16 feet of water between markers 45 & 46. Red marker 20 a floating nun buoy could be confusing, but as previously noted it is part of the channel & not an ICW marker. Also of note is there is a green 45, 45A & 45B. Marker 45B is south of red 46. We transited the area two hours prior to high tide.
Tim Carter
Bogue Sound Inlet Crossing. No problewm. Favor the main land side.
Raymond W. Smith
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Bogue Inlet Channel Intersection
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Jan 29, 2013by: Claiborne Young 3 Comments
Navigating From Marco Island/Goodland and Coon Key Pass to Everglades City (Southwestern Florida Coastline)
As southwestern Florida cruising veterans will tell you, there is an UNOFFICIAL waterway which runs behind Marco Island, and eventually, all the way north to Gordon Pass and Naples. The “unofficial” part means that this passage is NOT part of the Western Florida ICW and is therefore not maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
The shallowest spot on this unofficial Waterway lies near its southern terminus, hard by the southern tip of Marco Island, which is occupied by the fast developing (but still interesting) village of Goodland. Here, you can easily encounter 4 1/2 foot soundings right in the middle of the channel at low water.
Also, a bit farther to the north, where the channel passes under the (northern) Marco Island Bridge, there is an UNBELIEVABLE “L” turn in the channel, just southeast of the span. You MUST pass marker #26 to its eastern and southern sides, or your vessel’s keel WILL find the bottom!!!!!
The southernmost point of this “unofficial Waterway” is known as Coon Key Pass. Cruising craft must traverse the “shallow spot” near Goodland, and then cruise through Coon Key Pass, if they are southbound to Everglades City, Little Shark River or the Florida Keys via this “unofficial waterway route.” Of course, you can avoid all of this by staying offshore, being sure to stay well clear the vast Cape Romano Shoals, and then continuing south.
The messages below pertain to cruising south from Marco Island/Goodland, via Coon Key Pass.
What is the water depth? It looks very shallow. We are heading to Marco on Wednesday and could go to Goodland on our way to Everglades City…IF there is water!
Thanks.
Mike
One September
We’ve been thru Marco to Goodland several times in our boat which drafts 4 ft and haven’t had a problem. The most challenging spots were just after leaving the Marco Bridge (toward Goodland) and when exiting from Goodland back to the Gulf at Coon Key. Pay attention to the tides and charts and it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s our preferred route to avoid Cape Romano Shoals.
Steve and Gina Smith
M/V Island Time
We draw 42″. Go at high tide, or close to it. It’s a soft bottom.
Swing Set
The moon is full, now. Even though the tidal amplitude isn’t much we discovered that inches count!. After poking around south of Cape Romano we decided that the charts were not accurate enough to go into some of the places that warn of 4 feet or less at MLW. Consequently, we headed directly to Marathon because we were in the area at full moon tide and the tide cycle was wrong for us to make a daylight entry into some of the places south of Goodland. We went into Goodland in a friend’s outboard runabout below half tide. At one point the channel was narrow and too shallow to get Sequel in and out, safely. We opted for the Little Marco River and Capri Pass and, at that, there is an uncharted bar on the right of the pass entering the Little Marco where an island blew away in the last hurricane.
Joe aboard M/V Sequel
Two great anchorages on the way to Marathon are Russel Pass outside of Everglades City and Little Shark River. We found them to be one of the nicest anchorages to be at for an overnight stop.
Michael Rizzo
Have made the run from marco to everglades city outside many times, in both bad and good weather. if you trust your gps and the depth sounder you can pick your way through the shoals with no problem, once you have done it its a piece a cake. I draw 5.5 feet.
Nick Chavasse
Don’t forget about the 55′ bridge from Marco to Goodland.
Nick
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Goodland and Coon Key Pass
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Comments from Cruisers (3)

Gaz Haring -  August 4, 2017 - 12:56 pm

Has anyone been through the Cook Key Light / Gullivan Bay channel lately?
Been a few years since last transited. Always a little dicey with tight places around and south of Coon Key Light. Wondering if still 4′ at MLW according to Coastal Pilot / charts and my personal observations. Aug 2017
Reply to Gaz

Stephan Mariani -  December 3, 2014 - 12:14 pm

When navigation the southern side of Marco Island through Caxambas Pass, Caxambas Bay, and Sunset Pass, pay strict attention to the channel depth between markers R16 and G17. Hug the G17 and G15 markers to avoid possible grounding near R16. Avoid this passage at ANY tide less than HIGH. Sounds of 3.0′ to 2.8′ have been encountered here at HIGH tide.
Reply to Stephan

Stephan Mariani -  December 3, 2014 - 12:05 pm

When cruising south from the Marco River, passing Goodland on your STBD side, hug marker R2 on your PORT side and choose the channel on the east side of Coon Key heading directly towards Coon Key Light. The western channel at this point is too narrow and shoaled for safe passage at any tide.
Reply to Stephan
Jan 29, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Turtle Cove Marina (Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River)
Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm!
Sea Biscuit here for several nights. We draw 4.6 feet, and in our case, we can only come and go at, or near, high tide. We almost sit on the bottom in our slip, but not quite. A very nice marina, we like it, just that the water depth at low tide is probably about 3 to 3.5 feet total depth at lower tides during the approach, 5 to 6 at higher tides. Easily doable, but requires a slow and careful approach, which is necessary anyway due to busy traffic, close quarters, and some narrow channels. Enjoy, as the hospitality is tops! Perfect location and excellent security.
Sea Biscuit, Defever 44
Visited the first week of Feb. Nice marina w/ floating docks. Looong walk to laundry and showers. New showers planned near docks. Problem being water depth. I draw 57’³. At MLLW I had 32’³ under boat (by lead line). Probably the shallowest dock in the marina. Poor choice by dockmaster. Great location to visit sponge dock area with restaurants and shops (two blocks) and also the downtown with cathedral, upscale antique shops and historical buildings. Approach channel had 6′ spots near high tide. Timing is important for deeper draft craft.
Has Royer
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina
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Jan 29, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Best Spot to Watch Cape Canaveral Space Launches
There is a lively discussion taking place on the AGLCA list, about the best spot to anchor, and pick up a slip to watch space shots from Cape Canaveral. For years, if the weather cooperated, we always anchored in the wide section of the Indian River, just south of Titusville. There’s TONS of swing room, and 5 1/2 to 6 foot depths, BUT absolutely NO shelter from fresh breezes or foul weather. To learn more about this possible vantage point, go to, /?p=4356 !
We had a great view from the anchorage just south of the railroad bridge near mile 877. There’s a little silt bar right off the channel (6 ft., if I remember correctly), but then deep water almost to the shore to the east,
with lots of manatees and jumping fish. Excellent protection from the N and E. Only one other boat came in to anchor for the launch, and then left right after.
Micheal Ahart
Mooring field at Titusville Muni Marina would be good.
Darrell Grob
The ICW does not close. Only the banana river and the mosquito lagoon have restrictions during launches. The best place to watch is between the Titusville bridge and Addison point bridge. Sorry we are at Trawlerfest and don’t have our charts in front of us. It is an amazing thing to watch a launch from just south of Titusville. We’ll Try to see it from Fort Lauderdale after we graduate the latest University class of Building Cruising Confidence As A Couple. Go NASA!!
Chris and Alyse Caldwell
Captain Chris Yacht Services
772-205-1859
We have watched about 3 launches from our slip at the Cocoa Village Marina. Had a party also during the launch a time or two. Check out Cocoa Village Marina, Cocoa, FL.Ã‚
Also you can go to Kennedy Space Center Launch Clock Website but it lags the launch a little so be on deck at 0830, but you can see on the launch clock if launch gets cancelled.
Capt Bob Kovach
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Indian River Spaceport Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Indian River Spaceport Anchorage
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Titusville Mooring Field
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Titusville Mooring Field
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cocoa Village Marina
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Jan 29, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
TowBoatUS Tampa Bay Earns “Tower Of The Year” Award
This just in from our good friends at TowBoat/US. Looks like the Tampa Bay franchise of this very popular service is really up to snuff!
Notice this franchise has satellite operations on the Western Florida coastline, from Tampa Bay north through the Big Bend region!
CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla., January 29, 2013 — An on-the-water towboat company that helps Gulf Coast boaters get home safely was singled out for its professionalism at the BoatUS Towing Services Annual Conference recently held in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Tower of the Year honors went to TowBoatUS Tampa Bay, which is owned and operated by Capt. Larry Tieman and Capt. Clayton Tieman. The company has eight locations along the Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay to Cedar Key, including St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, Hudson, Homosassa River, Crystal River and Yankeetown.
The company also received two additional awards – the BoatUS Membership Achievement Award for selling the most BoatUS memberships in the entire fleet, and was honored with the BoatUS Dispatchers Choice Award, given by the dispatching staff at the BoatUS 24-hour call centers for providing members with fast response and utmost professionalism during the dispatch process.
“We have grown our business to become the largest BoatUS towing service provider in the United States and we are very proud of our accomplishments,” said Capt. Larry Tieman. “With fourteen boats and sixteen captains, we handle over 2,500 requests a year for on-the-water assistance. If you’re broken down or run out of gas near shore, we’re very proud that we can get a bright red towboat with a professional captain to your location in usually an hour or less,” he added.
“The Tieman’s operation is the standard bearer that many in our towing fleet look up to, showing others how to run a successful on-the-water towing business in one of the busiest regions of the country,” said BoatUS Vice President and Director of Towing Services Adam Wheeler. “And they do it professionally, with the great care that our members deserve, and always with a positive attitude.”
BoatUS Towing Services offers an “unlimited” towing plan for Florida boaters for just $149 a year, which includes BoatUS membership. Without a towing plan, the national average out-of-pocket cost for a tow is about $600. For membership and towing information visit http://www.BoatUS.com/towing or call 800-888-4869.
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Jan 24, 2013by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Praise for Calusa Island Marina (Marco Island, Western Florida Coastline)
Calusa Island Marina is our FAVORITE facility on Marco Island. And, not the least reason for this good feeling is that Little Bar Restaurant (239-394-5663) and Stan’s Idle Hour (239-394-3041) are within easy walking distance. The food at Little Bar is superb, and a VERY good time is usually had by all at Stans, particularly on the weekend.
You will also find the management at Calusa Island Marina very responsive to the needs to cruisers. Give them a try!!!
Just want to put in a good word for the folks at Calusa Island Marina, Goodland, FL. It is sunny and warm among the mangrove islands just at the edge of the 10,000 Islands. Cheryl, Andrew, Larry and dockmaster, Don, are
friendly, welcoming and very helpful. So if you are still on your way south (or coming north) a stop here is well worth it.
Judith and Paul
Tranquilo
We’ve been by Calusa many times; we love the area! But, it is shallow, and particularly in the mornings with the prevailing diurnal tides of the SW Coast. From the Coon Key Channel, what’s your “local knowledge” advice on
getting onto the marina? And also, did you “partake” at Stan’s?
Thanks
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary
It is a really neat run up the back door to there from Marco. Marina is neat. Shallow water is true, but with our 4′ draft, we made it just fine. It is a nice, short run from there to Everglades City, but take the east side of the last island when you leave and not the channel. Locals will tell you how.
John & Sue Winter
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For
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