Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Nov 23, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Good Words for Swan Point Marina and Boatyard, AICW Statute Mile 247
Swan Point Marina guards the AICW’s western banks, immediately south of the AICW/New River/New River Inlet Problem Stretch intersection, just north of marker #4.
This facility changed hands about a year ago, and while we were sorry to see the former management depart, it is very gratifying to learn that the new owners are doing such a great job for visiting cruisers!
While traveling south we were unable to clear the fixed Topsail Bridge just south of Alligator Bay due to extremely high tides.
We spent the night at Swan Point Marina and were very pleased with the service. Under new ownership, this marina is a family owned operation with plans for a complete renovation. The owners were very kind and helpful in every aspect.
Vince Archetto
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Swan Point Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Swan Point Marina
Click Here To Read An Earlier Article Related To The Closing of Swan Point Marina
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Nov 23, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Western Florida’s Big Bend Passage, Apalachiacola to Clearwater
Clearwater Entrance - Click for Chartview
I have often said before, but it bears repeating again, “get twelve cruisers together, and you will give fourteeen opinions about how to best traverse Western Florida’s waterwayless ‘Big Bend’ region.” Every time this topic arises, whether it’s here on the Cruisers’ Net, or some other nautical forum, a wide range of often very useful and informative opinions come to light. That’s just the case below.
Overnight passages can be memorable, especially when the seas cooperate as Capt. MacMahon describes below. The direct channel to Clearwater Municipal Marina from the Western Florida ICW (there is another entrance from Clearwater Pass Inlet), cuts sharply west, just south of the high-rise Clearwater Beach Bridge.
Calypso (American Tug 34) crossed the Gulf from Apalachicola to Clearwater on September 22-23. Left Apalachicola at 8:30 a.m. and went down the GICW to East Pass. Exited East Pass into the Gulf shortly before 11:30a.m.
Weather report was for light winds (5 to 10 mph) out of some derivation of the North for all day and night with waves projected to be 1 to 2 feet. It was a little bouncy going thru East Pass and for the next 45 minutes or so until reaching deeper water. Then, it smoothed out into widely spaced two foot swells which the boat glided over. Conditions got even better as the day progressed and as Calypso worked its way further South until it was essentially smooth throughout the night. Made better time than planned so had to slow down several times in order to arrive after daylight. Stayed out in deeper water (40 feet plus) as approached Clearwater so as to avoid expected crab pots in shallower water. As it got light headed into Clearwater Pass and there were no crab pots off the coast there. Dredging
equipment was at Clearwater Pass but no problem getting by it. Turned left just after going under the high rise bridge over the pass and went up the side channel to Clearwater Beach Municipal Marina. Somewhat shallow (5 feet over the bar) in the side channel (with about one foot of tide. But, once over the bar depth was fine. The marina has fixed docks and there is a little bit of wake from tour boats (but not bad at all). Showers/heads are not climate controlled. Dock master was helpful. And, it is close to the beach and lots of restaurants/bars.
Mark MacMahon
We found Panama City to Clearwater area to be the best for us. Leave Panama City in the morning, over night to Clearwater entrance. Anchor between condos and sleep and rest the rest of the day. Don’t like going across that shallow lake east of Panama City. We also found the return trip to Panama City nice also. We would anchor thru the single lift bridge for a day or two. Then there’s the visit to Gano’s bayou for some of the best hospitality ! Thanks,
Ted Brown, boatless but thinking
We’ve done the Gulf crossing 5 times, all overnighters. We departed from Tarpon Springs or Tampa/St Petersburg going west. Destin, Panama City, Carrabelle going east. We’ve always done the overnighters as our philosophy is that one over night is one overnighter at our trawler speed of 8 mph (7 knts). Leave in the Daylight from either end and plan to arrive no earlier than mid day going east so that you are not looking into the sun and can see the myriad of trap floats that extend a surprising distance off shore some as far as 30+ miles. Just get into port in full daylight going west.
Having spent time in the arm pit, Steinhatchie and Cedar Key hold no attractions for me so I prefer to get across and not hassle with the shallow entry channels guarded by oyster/clam bed. If you really want to go to them watch your tides and remember the winter northerlies can and does draw the gulf waters down up to +2′ lower than MLLW where it will remain for several days.
So beware of entering shallow channels with expectations of leaving when ever. The distance we go(departure to arrival point) when doing an overnighter is determined by the weather window and weather at each end which can vary depending upon wind speeds and directions at the different points i.e. following seas over head seas, vice fetch and durations along the planned route. Contrary to some guides in all our crossings we have never been out of range (VHF) contact with a USCG site. Remember, patience is the key to an uneventful and boring (at best) crossing and daylight
departures and arrivals.
Joe
M/V “Carolyn Ann” GH N-37
Joe Pica said “and remember the winter northerlies can and does draw the gulf waters down up to +2′ lower than MLLW where it will remain for several days. So beware of entering shallow channels with expectations of leaving whenever.”
That is some good advice and things to consider. Thanks for posting that Joe. After living in FL for one winter I saw that is true.
Ralph Yost
You ask a good question, what is the best destination for crossing the Gulf, Tarpon Springs or Clearwater. Both are good but slightly different. Tarpon Springs is about 5-6 miles closer if the total crossing distance is critical and marinas there will take reservations, more critical in years past when there were more boaters out there. Clearwater is an easier approach and a few less crab pots to dodge but you would be in the deeper Gulf for a bit longer, important if the west wind is starting to pick up as you finish your crossing. Clearwater has their sunset celebrations that are indeed special but Tarpon Springs has that delicious Greek food that can’t be found many other places.
To decide what is best port, you will have to serve rum drinks to about a dozen cruisers who have done it before but hope that someone passes out so there can’t be a tie vote. Stay safe,
Tom Conrad
The information posted is very helpful. I do have a follow up question for the group. Cruising at 9knts aboard my GB 32, how long should I plan for getting from Fairhope AL to East Pass? Thanks!
Randy Hondros
Randy,
Your priorities should be your major guide in planning time from Fairhope to East Pass. On our last trip through that section, it took us over 6 weeks. There are miles of sandy, shell-covered beaches to explore ‘“ usually by yourself this time of year. Anchor at Perdido Key, Shell Island, and Cape San Blas. Don’t miss the Naval Air Museum and Joe Patti’s seafood market in Pensacola. Apalachicola is a quaint town with some of the best oysters and shrimp in the world. The Florida Panhandle is a great cruising destination that should be savored slowly. Too many cruisers rush through the Panhandle concerned about getting to a point to cross the Gulf and miss some outstanding experiences.
Glen and Jill Moore
DeFever 40 Last Dance
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Clearwater Municipal Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Clearwater Municipal Marina
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Nov 21, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Praise for Argus Data Reports
It is very gratifying to receive reports like the one below from Captain Bob. How wonderful that he found Survice Engineer’s ARGUS data so useful AND accurate. It’s just another way the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net strives to provide ALL the information necessary to safely and enjoyably cruising the coastal waters of the Southeastern USA!
By the way, the report of shoaling south of St. Augustine to which Captain Bob refers was posted earlier this year.
Looked at the Argus info for this stretch as well as other stretches south of here around Pons Inlet [Ponce de Leon Inlet]. What a huge benefit to have this. It was always right on what I found less than an hour after low tide. This is a big step forward from reading the subjective comments of other cruisers.
Captain Bob Clemons
Click Here To View A Posting About Shoaling South of St. Augustine
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Nov 20, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Professional Praise for Osprey Marina (Statute Mile 373.5) – Captains Mark and Diana Report
Our strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, owners and founders of On The Water ChartGuides, have provided us with a sterling review of one of the most praised marinas to be found in the South Carolina Low Country. We agree with everything this professional cruising duo has to say below, and, of course, let’s not forget that Osprey Marina is a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
Hi Claiborne,
Osprey Marina is aptly named, located along the Waccamaw River (STM 373.3), where you’ll see LOTS of osprey and osprey nests.
I’ll include two photos, showing the facility, marina, and basin:
The facility is built around a quiet, secluded basin tucked down a narrow tree-lined channel. It’s easy to forget that crowded Myrtle Beach is just to the north, over the treetops.
The marina is a great place to leave your boat for holiday travel. Myrtle Beach International Airport is only 14 miles away.
The basin is incredibly protected and the owners and staff go above and beyond to make you happy and take care of your boat.
And the rates are very competitive: cruisers should be sure to ask about their decreasing-by-the-day dockage fees.
When you check in you receive a captain’s bag guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It’s loaded with treats that show this marina understands what boaters enjoy: goodies like travel packs of laundry detergent, crackers, and homemade local pumpkin butter.
Sherry, we especially enjoyed the pumpkin butter! [ hint ‘¦ hint ]
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Osprey Marina
Click Here To View the Osprey Marina Photo Gallery Take From Our South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
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Nov 19, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Sailor Looks for Post Hip Replacement Cruising Advice
If any fellow cruiser has advice for Captain Wilmington, please click follow the “Click Here to Submit Cruising News” button/link to the above right. We will post your replies for all to share.
Any fellow sailors/boaters out there who have had a total hip replacement. I would like to know how you adapt/adjust your movements so that you can still enjoy the Big Blue!. My replacement is 3 weeks old, and I am looking forward to spring boating.
Thanks
Capt Mike Wilmington
Mike,
I had a total hip replacement (anterior method), Jiffy Hip, in 2007. I was ambulating the same day and left 3 months later taking our boat from Yorktown, Va to Savannah, GA with no problems. We have since cruised Chesapeake Bay and just spent 5 months last winter in Charleston, SC on the boat. My doc put no restrictions on me and I haven’t needed any. I can’t speak to the traditional posterior method that involved cutting the glutemus maximus muscle. Hope this helps.
Jake Smith
I had a total Hip replacement on 8/1/11, and was back on my trawler 10/ 10/11. That was after both knees in 4/10/11. The hip was a piece of cake, compared to the double knees. We cruised the whole winter/spring of 2011/12, and are now cruising again, since 9/12.
Roger Hayes
I am in my mid-70’s and still active. I had hip replacement surgery in 1999 (right hip) and 2007 (left hip). I carefully followed my surgeon’s recommendations following surgery. If your surgeon recommends therapy, do it. After three months I was able to ride my horse, ski, bowl, play golf, and boat.
To have a good result you must not stress the implant while it is fragile and your muscles are still weak. Avoid falling and sports like tennis that include twisting and short stops.
I recently had knee replacement. After three months I was back bowling and golfing. Boating waited for good weather.
Good luck!
Ann Kendrick
Thanks for the good advice, and thanks to the Cruisers Net for posting my message. My doc says the 90 degree rule is forever, and that rule puts a crimp of sorts into my singlehanded sailing. The advice boosts my spirit and I am ready for spring!!!
Capt Mike,
Wilmington NC
Mike,
I would recommend you get a second opinion from a surgeon who uses the Jiffy Hip anterior method of hip replacement. The 90 degree rule does not apply.
Jake
Jake, my surgery was posterior, and I was sent home with 3 rules’¦’¦no crossing legs, no pointing of foot inward on op-leg, and no bending at the waist more than 90 degrees’¦.
Mike
You might want to check this site about hip replacement: www.zimmer.com
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Nov 19, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Warnings of Swift Current at the Harborage at Ashley Marina, near AICW Statute Mile 469
The Harborage at Ashley Marina - Click for Chartview
The Harborage at Ashley Marina lies along the northeastern shores of Ashley River (on the Charleston peninsula), between the charted 56 foot fixed bridge, and the 18-foot Highway 17 bascule bridge.
While we certainly have NO argument with either Captain Koerner’s or Captain Jay’s advice to be on the lookout for swiftly moving waters when approaching this facility’s piers, I might just add, “welcome to the South Carolina Low Country.” Strong tidal currents are part and parcel of almost every anchorage and marina from south of Myrtle Beach to St. Marys River.
I keep my sailboat at this marina. Last April she was T-boned by a trawler whose captain used hiS bow thrusters to turn the boat around during a strong ebb tide. Boat never made the turn.
A powerboat struck another powerboat yesterday while trying to back in against the current (which seems to run 45 degrees to the shore, rather than parallel).
And this morning, a transient sailboat was unable to back ouy against the current and was T-boned against the pier before striking another sailboat in his slip.
THIS IS NOT A DANGEROUS PLACE ‘“ JUST RESPECT THE CURRENTS! COME IN ON SLACK WATER, BACK OUT WITH THE CURRENT!!
HB Koerner
I second HB’s advice. I’ve stayed at Ashley’s a couple of times as a transient, and usually ask if I can stay on the outside dock so I don’t have to deal with navigating the interior slips with the current.
Dennis Jay
`Delta Blues’
Annapolis, Md.
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For The Harborage at Ashley Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of The Harborage at Ashley Marina
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Nov 15, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Praise for Georgia Waterway and Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602
The AICW follows the narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.
Captains Glen and Jill Moore provide an excellent picture of and approach to this long-time trouble spot where depths can change quickly due to the narrow channel. And we heartily agree that these miles of undeveloped and unspoiled Waterway in Georgia are well worth the necessary planning and navigational care.
We traveled through Hell Gate on 11/9/12. The shallowest spot observed on our path was 8′ MLW south of floating R90. Using the large Georgia tides to your advantage, Hell Gate depths provide a good margin of error on your course through this narrow stretch of the ICW.
Some cruisers avoid the Georgia ICW due to stories of shallow water. They miss one of the best cruising areas of the southeast coast. Those on a delivery schedule, just trying to get south or north as quickly as possible, can save much time by going outside. It is about 115 sm from Hilton Head, SC to the St. Marys River entrance at the Florida line, while traveling between the same destinations following the ICW is a curving course of 150 sm. But, for cruisers searching for memorable experiences, it is 150 miles of natural beauty, 100’s of anchorages, and many interesting places to visit.
The term ‘Problem Stretches’ may be part of the problem, adding to a level of fear causing cruisers to avoid Georgia. Yes, there are areas that require attention and planning, all of which are documented on the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net website. So, there should be no surprises. The site’s new feature of recently sounded and recorded depths by ARGUS research vessels, detailed directly on NOAA charts, provides accurate and easy-to-understand information on depths. Spending a little time researching the waterway on SSECN, annotating information directly on your charts, will provide a valuable guide to safely cruising Georgia’s section of the AICW. Navigation of these waters is a bit more challenging, but the challenge of navigation should be one of the experiences enjoyed in cruising ‘” a n endeavor rewarded by the outstanding cruising experiences these waters can provide.
The narrow, and sometimes shallow, Georgia passages should be viewed as `Areas of Concern,’ requiring increased levels of attention and planning. Often in life, the greatest of rewards require higher effort to achieve.
PBS created a documentary of the Georgia barrier islands which provides a visual and narrative description of the history and beauty of one aspect of this area: http://www.gpb.org/secretseashore#
Glen and Jill Moore
DeFever 40 Last Dance
Very good to hear positive comments about the Georgia ICW.
Sonny
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Nov 14, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
BLAST OFF! Florida’s Indian River Anchorage – Captains Mark and Diana Report (Statute Mile 882)
Like Captains Diana and Mark, over the years, we have swung on the hook in the below described Indian River anchorage and watched all sorts of spacecraft being launched, including the now defunct space shuttle. All of these sights are of the “never fogotten” variety.
As Mark and Diana note, there is NO protection on these wide waters, so be sure there is a good forecast in the offing before committing to a stay on these waters. Otherwise, GO for it whenever a lunch is due!
Hi Claiborne,
An anchorage in the middle of nowhere … What’s the big deal?
Yep, Indian River Anchorage is a nondescript stopover with no protection and no shore access ‘” but with the memories of a lifetime!
All you have to do is time your overnight stay with a rocket launch from nearby Kennedy Space Center.
There may be no nearby shore access or services, but you’re talking front row seats for the Cape Canaveral launches!
Fortunately, rocket launches only proceed with perfectly calm conditions, the same conditions you’ll want in order to stay at this unprotected anchorage along the Indian River at STM 882.2.
Located a full two statute miles off the ICW, there is a pocket of 7-foot depths in the middle of the incredibly wide Indian River (see the sample page from our AnchorGuide series below).
We’ll never see another shuttle launch like the one pictured here but there are three more launches currently scheduled for this year, two of them Atlas rockets!
Plan ahead by checking KSC’s rocket launch schedule at: http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events.aspx
On November 13th an Atlas V rocket will launch the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle, a U.S. military prototype spaceplane.
On December 6th an Atlas V rocket will launch a NASA communications satellite.
On December 15 a Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Dragon spacecraft on a cargo delivery mission to the International Space Station.
Pretty exciting stuff for a “boring” anchorage in the middle of the Indian River!
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
We have had the same great view for the last four launches from our slip at the Cocoa Village Marina. Which usually
includes a launch party at the beautiful Club house.
Capt Bob Onboard ALLEZ!
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
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Nov 13, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
IMPORTANT – ARGUS Data Now Being Updated Continuously By Two Research Craft Heading South Down the AICW
Back on 10/11/12, we brought to the attention of the cruising community BIG news about the updating of our “ARGUS” data layer (on our site’s “Chart View” module). Once again, the strategic partnership between the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net, Survice Engineering’s ARGUS Project and EarthNC (Earth Nautical Charts), was yielding BIG dividends!
NOW, THERE IS EVEN MORE GOOD NEWS ON THIS FRONT! And, as always, this superb service is being made available to the cruising community at NO CHARGE. You don’t have to buy anything, join any organization, nor even provide a user name or a password! How’s that for an “offer you can’t refuse!”
First, let’s hear directly from ARGUS’s creator, Captain John Hersey, of Survice Engineering:
Claiborne,
The new ARGUS ICW solution set that you posted in the article about on your website (see /argus-solution-sets-updated-just-in-time-for-the-fall-2012-cruising-season/) reflected all new data gathered through September of 2012. Since then, as the two ARGUS research vessels, Altair and Chez Nous, have been moving south, we’ve been updating this ICW solution set daily to reflect their incoming soundings. This test of near-real-time updates provide Chez Nous (the follower in this case) with the benefit of Altair’s observations from the day before, as well as your other readers with the same updated look at current conditions as both vessels travel south.
Thanks,
John
OK, please allow me to translate. Where before, updated ARGUS data was being fed into our EarthNC produced “Chart View” pages on a more or less quarterly basis, now, this data is being updated DAILY as the two research vessels, Alair and Chez Nous, work their way south down the AICW.
As usual, an example is worth another thousand words, so let’s look at a real instance of how this new data has been integrated into the existing ARGUS sounding information.
Please follow this link, which will open a Chart View page centered on the AICW, just south of Fernandina Beach, Florida:
/cruisersnet-marine-map/?ll=30.649836796880713,-81.47873295183024&z=14&argus=1
First, be advised that I have set this link to automatically open the ARGUS layer, but if you were just going to any of our Chart View pages, it would be necessary to find the “ARGUS (MLLW)” check box just above the chart image, in the second (moving left to right) vertical row of check boxes. After clicking the “ARGUS (MLLW)” checkbox, the ARGUS legend will appear, as well as the color coded sounding circles, indicating MLW adjusted depths gathered by the ARGUS research craft.
Take a look at the voluminous sounding data recorded on this section of the Waterway, NOW FRESHLY UPDATED BY THE JUST GATHERED SOUNDINGS SUBMITTED BY ALAIR AND CHEZ NOUS!
THINK THIS MIGHT JUST BE A SIGNIFICANT TOOL IN ANY NAVIGATOR’S ARSENAL! We think so too!
One question we are often asked is how our users can easily get to our Chart View pages. Well, of course, by clicking on ANY of the chartlets in our various marina or anchorage directory listings, you will be taken to a Chart View page automatically centered on and zoomed to the marina or anchorage in question. You can then drag the chart in any direction, and for any distance you need to reveal your waters of interest. HOWEVER THERE IS ANOTHER, VERY USEFUL WAY TO FIND YOUR WAY TO OUR CHART VIEW SERVICE!
Locate the red, vertically stacked stacked menus on the right side of all Cruisers’ Net pages, and then select your coastline of interest, “South Carolina” for example. Click on “South Carolina” and a drop down menu will appear. Now, locate “SC Chartview” and click on this menu item. A sub-sub drop down menu will appear, with a list of South Carolina’s ports of a call. To continue this example, click on “Georgetown, SC.” A Chart View page will open, centered on Georgetown. Activate the “ARGUS” layer by clicking the ARGUS checkbox, and look at all the good, just updated sounding data on the Sampit River, bordering the downtown Georgetown waterfront. Again, you can then drag the chart in any direction, and for any distance you need to reveal other waters of interest.
This feature works in exactly the same fashion for all our coastlines. not just South Carolina. Take a few moments to give it a try.
We know the cruising community will find this updated ARGUS data to be very useful. Please join with me in thanking Survice Engineering as well as EarthNC for making this service possible, partnered with the Salty Southeast Cruiser’ Net. OK, go to our site and check those latest soundings. Good luck and good cruising to all!
Cruising News:
Just wanted to say that we just used the argus readings from Fernandina to Cocoa and they were extremely accurate and very helpful..Thanks for the good work..it took some of the stress of the ICW away..We have a 61/2 four draft and the ICW can be very interesting..
Roberta
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Nov 13, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Anchorage with Shoreside Access in Ft. Lauderdale: Middle River (St. M. 1063.4) – Captains Mark and Diana Report
The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net is very pleased to publish the latest in the superb series of articles authored by our good friends, and strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, founders and owners of “On The Water Chartguides.” This story centers on a body of water, Middle River, which provides excellent anchorage. This stream lies off the AICW’s western shores a few miles north of Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Bridge.
I know this area well, as my parents used to rent a winter home which fronted onto Middle River. As a boy of ten our so, you could find me almost daily piloting either my sailfish or our 16-foot Boston Whaler around these waters. Those were truly golden, broad days.
But, now, back to the present. Let’s hear what Diana and Mark have to tell us!
Hi Claiborne,
South Florida’s AICW is a bit like a “Tour of Homes” as you motor by impressive and varied waterfront lots.
We love gawking at the mega-mansions with million-dollar poolside landscaping and the pink bungalows with flocks of plastic flamingos.
But the downside of wall-to-wall canal-front real estate is that shoreside access is much harder to come by. Shore is all private property, often within private developments that prohibit any dinghy dockage. That’s why Middle River anchorage, with shore access at Fort Lauderdale’s George English Park, is so special.
Middle River, at STM 1063.4, is a deep and relatively quiet (by South Florida standards!) anchorage, convenient to the AICW, in a no-wake-zone river lined with homes and park land.
Exit the ICW southeast of G3 and proceed northwesterly up charted Middle River, north of the large east-west canal home island. Anchor in the river’s wide spot, with the fixed bridge (vertical clearance 5 feet) to the north. Middle River is substantially deeper than charted: we surveyed depths of 15-26 feet (at 2.3′ above MLLW).
Shore access is at the George English Park boat ramp to the north, upriver just past the low-clearance fixed bridge. The park is 20 acres, with a recreation center, tennis courts, and a walking/jogging trail. Many restaurants and Galleria Fort Lauderdale are nearby, including a supermarket across the bridge to the west.
I’ve included a photo of the anchorage as well as a sample page from our new AnchorGuide series showing the anchorage location, the actual versus charted depths in the Middle River, and the location of the park boat ramp.
Unfortunately, for all the park’s excellent amenities and access, the park does not allow dogs.
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Middle River Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Middle River
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Nov 12, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
North Mouth of Alligator River AICW Problem Stretch – Captains Mark and Diana Report (St. M. 81)
Below, our strategic partners Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, founders and owners of On The Water ChartGuides, give a concise and accurate report of the current situation at the northern mouth of the Alligator River, where the AICW flows south from Albemarle Sound into this body of water. Note that Diana and Mark confirm our earlier posting here on the SSECN (see /?p=98565), that the infamous “magenta line” is charted on the WRONG side of marker #8A. Be SURE to pass this marker to its EASTERLY side!
Hi Claiborne,
Diana and I crossed the Albemarle Sound southbound last week and re-surveyed the known Alligator River Entrance ICW trouble spot … with its westward shoal and mis-charted Magenta Line.
As you can see from the attached screenshot, the depths are fine if you follow the navaids, NOT necessarily the Magenta Line.
Southbound, you would honor R6 and the G7-R8 pair, then (importantly) depart the charted Magenta Line, honoring floating navaid Red 8A, to stay off encroaching Long Shoal Point, finally re-joing the ICW and the charted Magenta Line at G9.
I’ll re-survey the other known ICW trouble spots as we continue southbound and share these with your SSECN readers.
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Cruised through the northern Alligator River dog leg. No problem. Follow the marks.
Raymond W. Smith
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the North Mouth of Alligator River
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Nov 12, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Praise for Tarpon Springs and Turtle Cove Marina, off the Anclote River, Gulf Coast
Turtle Cove Marina - Click for Chartview
Turtle Cove Marina is located off the Anclote River in Tarpon Springs channel, west of Marker #50. Detailed channel instructions are found in our Western Florida Marina Directory listing for this facility, linked below.
Tarpon Springs is one of our favorite stops on the Loop, lots of great food, music, marina life, fresh sea food and a good place to rest up after a long crossing. Last year we stayed at Turtle Cove Marina for a week (good weekly rate) and found it to be close to everything. To read more and see photo’s of Tarpon Springs, the farmers market and more you can click on the following link: http://trailertrawlerlife.com/?s=tarpon+springs&x=0&y=0
Opa,
Jim & Lisa Favors
Fish Market
Sponge Docks
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Tarpon Springs and Spring Bayou
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Nov 12, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
“The Crab Shack” on Sixmile Creek (off the St. Johns River, south of Green Cove Springs)
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!
The Crab Shack is on 6 Mile Creek, off the St. Johns eastern shore, south of Green Cove Springs. It has a long, long dock capable of hosting many boats. While I have not stepped it off, it is close to 1000 feet. On weekends, many runabouts cruise there for lunch or dinner. There is a shoal entering 6 Mile Creek. Food at the restaurant was at one time outstanding, but currently would rate at good. It is well worth a stop, in our opinion.
Glen Moore
DeFever 40 Last Dance
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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Nov 8, 2012by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
“Shakedown” at Green Cove Springs City Dock ?, Green Cove Springs, FL
Green Cove Springs City Dock is on the St. Johns River between Jacksonville and Palatka. This facility should NOT be confused with Green Cove Springs Marina, which sits a bit farther upstream, in the heart of the old Navy Base.
As for Capt. Hoskins’ experience described below, we can’t be really sure this is a shakedown or a miscommunication, since Green Cove Spring’s municipal website, as well as a confirming phone call made by the SSECN to City Hall, lists charges only for overnight stays. See below. Accordingly, Capt. Hoskins should NOT have been charged for daytime use without electric or water.
This is an excerpt from the Green Cove Springs website which clearly states that: “There is no fee if a boat stays all day and uses no electric and/or water”.
The City Pier provides a gateway to the City of Green Cove Springs by way of the St. Johns River. The pier provides a centrally located covered pavillion with handrails that are handicap accessible. The 12 floating finger boat slips allow visitors to dock and explore the City of Green Cove Springs.
Boat Slip Information:
$10.00 – Overnight Stay
$10.00 – Use of Electric and/or Water
Maximum stay is 48 hours. If a boat stays overnight and uses no electric and/or water the fee will be $10.00 per day. If a boat stays overnight and also uses the electric and/or water the fee is $20.00 per day. There is no fee if a boat stays all day and uses no electric and/or water. Overnight fees are based upon use from after dusk and until dawn.
http://www.greencovesprings.com Go to “Parks and Recreation”, then to “City Pier”
Cruising News:
Chief of police in Green Cove Springs,Fl. and his officers are demanding 10.00 daily dock fee for dinghy or boat if they think you are a live aboard even though signs are posted for overnight and utility usage only. Today I complained to city manager and am awaiting news of actual statute or “resolution” pertaining to this now old shakedown tactic for money that is not posted on any sign at the dock. It happens that the police station is in Spring Park right near the docks so they keep an eye out for potential “victims”. Beware…
Alan Hoskins
It seems that I am caught up in a discriminatory battle between the city of Green Cove Springs and its corporate statute enforcers and the live-aboards who have remained at anchor off the city in the St. Johns River in the quaint cove to the south of the city public docks for a period deemed `too long’ by the powers that claim to be. I have been denied use of a public dock for the reason stated above unless I pay a fee that is not required by the general public and that is designed to force me to comply or leave the area which feels and seems to be the case. This is clearly a case of the NIMBY syndrome (not in my backyard) that is causing Fl. to enforce statutes that are not even on the books. We as a species are devolving not evolving and are acting as territorial baboons fighting for existence! Folks when you buy a box on the waterfront and hook it up to the grid and dull your mind in front of the boob tube, try to remember that you only bought the box, you did not buy the view out of your window because I am in it and I am not for sale! Best Regards’¦../)’¦’¦
Alan Hoskins
Click Here To Read More Information about Green Cove Springs City Docks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Green Cove Springs City Dock
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David Burnham - November 27, 2016 - 12:23 pm

Damage to the floating docks on the Green Cove Springs City Dock has closed this access to the city until further notice. At least until repairs have returned the floating docks to a useable condition. There is no date specified when work will commence or be completed. However, NO TRESSPASSING signs ARE posted. There is a locked gate across the middle of the pier preventing access to the shore from the floating docks.
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Nov 6, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
An Enthusiastic Thumbs Up for Hinkley Yacht Services, Thunderbolt, Georgia (just outside Savannah, GA, St. M. 583)
Having just returned from a personal research visit to Hinkley Yacht Services on 11/2/12, I agree with Captain Day’s description. This truly seems like a quality operation!
The Savannah/Thunderbort version of the venerable Hinkley Yacht Services overlooks the Waterways’ western banks, immediately north of the Thunderbolt high-rise bridge.
In September 2011 we hauled our 34 year old, 44FT. Thompson Trawler, LILY MARIA at the Chesapeake Marine Railway, Deltaville, VA { Contact:J. Farinholt. {804}776 8833 } for serious bottom work.High pressure water utilizing a special nozzle removed old paint.Voids and dings filled, sanded and two coats of West Marine Premium Gold ablative anti fouling applied. This was our second visit to Chesapeake Marine Railway and have always been pleased with there work and consideration to customer needs. Good people!.
In May 2012 we short hauled for an insurance survey and seemingly the overly enthusiastic pressure wash removed most of the still active ablative paint.Four months in Georgias fast flowing, nutrient rich rivers found LILY MARIAs bottom reminiscent of a tropical rain forest, with abundant slime, weed and small barnacles. A marine biologists delight , a skippers horror show!!.
What to do?.Haul in Geogia or wait until we returned to Marathon for the winter?. Greatly reduced speed, slugish manouvering and no doubt increased fuel consumption favored Georgia.
By telephone we contacted 7 reputable boat yards including 2 in Florida where we had hauled in prevous years for quotations. For a fair comparison we reduced each quote to a $ per foot cost. The quotation from Hinkley Yacht Services in Thunderbolt GA came right in the middle of our tabulation. After several discussions with Gebel Seese , Hinkley Service Manager, {Contact: {912} 629 2400 } it became apparent to us that Hinkley offerred the best possible value consistent with top quality materials and skilled labor.
We found the Sea Hawk web site informative and following Gebel Seese advise we specified Sea Hawk, Tropikote, based on proven longevity and effectiveness of anti fouling properties. Further, via Sea Hawks appointed applicators a written guarrantee is issued which appealed to Jean and I.
Haul out day saw LILY MARIA in the slings for a full 8 hours while she was scraped,pressure washed and lightly sanded. Of special note,the running gear and scoops were restored to bare metal by the addition of a small amount of silicone sand added to the pressure wash water.This coupled with the extensive work undertaken the prevous year at the Chesapeake Marine Railway has restored the bottom of LILY MARIA to a clean fair surface. As one interested bystander said “Your 35 year old boat now has the bottom of a 4 year old”. We especially appreciated the care and hard work in prepping the bottom on which the finished job would depend.
Metal primed, 2 coats of Tropikote applied with 3 on the waterline and LILY MARIA was ready to be launched within 5 working days.
Durring the haul out we lived aboard with minimal inconveience. Hinkley provides good clean shoreside facilities adjascent to the work area. The work areas are tidy, well organized and the work scheduled so the job progresses without interruption.
The labor force,many of whom worked at the old Palmer Johnson yard, are experienced, skilled craftsmen and proud to carry on the the quality work that Hinkley is renowned for. This full service yard maintains many boats that are not Hinkley built and despite there insistance on customer service and quality there priceing is most competitive.Hinkley is not a do it your self yard.
We are extremly satisfied with our Hinkley experience which was beyond our expectations. The job was completed on time, within budget and to a high standard. On the run south we have noted at least a 1.25 increse in speed at cruising RPM plus resultant fuel savings.
Jean sums it up best of all by saying “the only problem I see with Hinkley is that we now have no choice but to return for all future haul outs!!
Colin Day
Jean Henderson
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Hinkley Yacht Services
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Hinkley Yacht Services
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Nov 1, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Focus Your Binoculars and Cameras on Seabirds
This message comes to the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net from our strategic partners, Captains Diana and Mark Doyle, founders and principals of On-The-Water ChartGuides. Please join with Diana, and participate in this most worthwhile project!
I’d like to encourage any cruisers who are interested in birds or wildlife to participate in the “SeaBC Sea Bird Count” this November, December or January. Participation is easy: simply tally or photograph the birds you see during an hour watch on a coastal transit or offshore passage.
This citizen science project, in its second year, is organized by a group of nine cruisers from around the world, including Wendy Clarke, Diana Doyle, Brenda Free, Yvonne Katchor, Beth Leonard, Katharine Lowrie, Devi Sharp, Jeanne Socrates, and Dorothy Wadlow.
Last year’s inaugural count spanned 100Âº of latitude, from Maine to Antarctica. The Caribbean 1500, Baja Ha-Ha, Salty Dog Rally, and ARC are all encouraging their boats to participate.
If you are a novice seabirder, you can still make a huge contribution by taking digital photos of any seabirds you see trailing alongside your boat and then noting the lat/long. The birding-aboard community at Facebook.com/Birding.Aboard will help you identify and report the species when you make landfall.
Your sightings matter! There aren’t many scientists who have the time and resources to log the sea miles you do. All data goes to Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird database (http://www.ebird.org), where it becomes a resource for
scientists and citizens worldwide.
An instruction and tally sheet (under SeaBC/Resources) and additional information is available on the community page at http://www.Facebook.com/Birding.Aboard or by emailing organizer Diana Doyle at Diana BirdingAboard com.
Please join the count in any way you can and contribute much-needed information about pelagic birds!
Diana Doyle
m/v Semi-Local
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
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Oct 30, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Key West Anchoring WILL Be Allowed Around Christmas Tree (Wisteria) Island and West of Fleming Key
In an earlier, now corrected, story here on the Cruisers’ Net (see /?p=96458), we opined that under the new, now approved Monroe County Anchoring plan (part of the Florida Keys’s participation in the Florida Pilot Mooring Field program) anchoring around Key West’s Christmas Tree Island (charted as “Wisteria Island”) and on the waters west of Fleming Key was prohibited. That is the way we and others read these regulations.
However, just a few days ago, we received the following inquiry from Captain RMW:
I think your statement that anchorages won’t be allowed around Christmas tree Island and Fleming Key is incorrect and you need to modify it. It frightened me before I did more research on my own. I think these are considered `unmanaged mooring fields’ by the gov’t. Without those anchorages, there would be NO place for cruisers to anchor while visiting Key West. However, there is no `managed mooring field’ west of Fleming Key, so I assume there is no exclusionary `buffer zone’ there, which only applies to `managed mooring fields’. The only `managed mooring field’ in Key West is at Garrison Bight in the Seaplane basin, on the east side of Fleming Key. The way I read the rules would apply to Key West, is that the `buffer zone’ would apply to the Seaplane basin, around the mooring field at Garrison Bight. That would make more sense, the water is shallow, and in the places where it is not, has poor purchase for anchors. Your article is suggesting that all of the anchorages around Key West would be eliminated. There seems to be no such plan in the works, as far as I can tell. Please clarify.
RMW
Well, that really sounded hopeful. We are GLAD to acknowledge mistaken interpretations, particularly when the correct take is beneficial to the cruising community. So, we got in touch with Captain Charmaine Smith Ladd, our very special Florida Keys correspondent, and the founder of BARR (Boaters’ Anchoring Rights and Responsibilities, and asked her to look further into this matter. Here is her response:
The guy is correct in his statement that anchoring will be allowed off Wisteria (Christmas Tree Island) and Fleming Key. You may be thinking about the prior plans to put moorings off Wisteria, and making the entire west side of Fleming Key a sanctuary area for marine life–thus barring anchoring. That whole proposal got scrapped when the ownership of Christmas Tree Island became questionable. It appears the US Navy owns it.
Thought for a minute about what the problem was as far as confusion with KW and anchorages. The entire area basically comes under the “managed anchoring” zone category which means you can anchor there but are subject to the rules and regs as established by the Pilot Program. No time limits or anything just pumping out and commonsense stuff. The only place that is different is on the east side of Fleming Key where the mooring field is…that is now a NO ANCHORAGE buffer zone. It’s a small area and very open to rough water. Most cruisers do not use it.
Charmaine
And, more input from Captain RMW:
I just called the FWC yesterday and the man I spoke with there (I was connected to someone with knowledge on the topic of mooring) confirmed what I wrote to you previously. The areas west of Fleming Key are considered “managed anchorages” and will be checked for compliance with the regulations as such. That does not mean that you can’t anchor there. The man acknowledged that people live on board boats in Key West, and for many, he said, it’s “affordable housing”. The area in the seaplane basin (east of Fleming) around the city mooring field is the “buffer zone” around the “managed mooring field”, and that is where anchorages are not allowed.
As far as Key West is concerned, I don’t see any problem with these rules – they are just putting teeth into rules that were always there.
I think it’s a good thing – who wants sewage and derelict projectiles around their bedroom? Also I think there are allowances for composting toilets, etc.
One more thing, when I asked him if additional funds were allocated for enforcement, he said there are no additional personnel.
R.M. Walter
So, it would appear that even under the new Monroe County anchoring plan, anchoring will be allowed around Christmas Tree/Wisteria Island and east of Fleming Key. HAPPY DAYS! We were never so happy to be proved wrong!
Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Wisteria Island (Christmas Tree Island) Eastern Anchorage
Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Wisteria Island (Christmas Tree Island) Northwesterly Anchorage
Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Fleming Key/Man of War Harbor Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Key West’s Anchorages
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Oct 29, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Great Visits to Cumberland Island, Georgia (AICW Statute Mile 711.5)
Cumberland Island lines the AICW’s eastern flank, in extreme southern Georgia, just north of St. Marys River and the Florida state line. One of the best side trips you will ever make from the Waterway lies north – northeast of marker #34 on the Dungeness Greyfield Channel. Follow the wide passage, and eventually anchor abeam of the “Sea Camp Dock.” Dinghy ashore to tour the island’s spectacular maritime forest, old Carnegie mansions, and some really superb beaches. Follow the link below to learn more about this wonderful anchorage!
Cumberland Island has always been one of our favorite destinations and anchorages. There is much history, nature and beauty to be enjoyed. Many of our cruising friends just sailed by Cumberland Island on their annual treks up and down the east coast. After convincing them to stop at Cumberland, they stayed 5 days, exploring many areas of the island. They now visit every year.
Glen and Jill Moore
DeFever 40* Last Dance*
We have camped on Cumberland and boated there many times. The last time we took our son, his wife and two granddaughters and our Golden Retriever Midas to the north end ocean side for some fun on the beach.
Mike
Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of
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Oct 28, 2012by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Comments on Transiting Angelfish, Creek Card Sound to Hawk Channel, Florida Keys
Angelfish Creek - Click for Chartview
I don’t think any channel in the Florida Keys has occasioned more comment here on the Cruisers’ Net than Angelfish Creek. For those who don’t already know, this creek provides a means to cruise from the Inside/Florida Bay Route (from Card Sound), to Hawk Channel and the briny blue. There has always been some question about depths along this route, and we have received many reports here on the Net about an underwater “rock,” near the point where the marked passage meets up with the deeper waters abutting Hawk Channel.
Most of Captain Copeland’s comments below concern another subject, namely, why planing hull craft tend to transit Angelfish at high speed. Boy, if the props on my vessel cost $40K each, I might do the same thing, and then again, I might not!
In re: to Angelfish Creek navigation: As a captain of a 50′ sport fish who navigates this creek frequently (not because I have a choice’¦I do not) with my 4’10’³ draft, I have seen many posts from other boaters who seem very frustrated with `big sportfishers’ who take this channel pushing high wakes or at high speeds.
I would like to explain WHY this is the case:
1. I will never take this channel under two hours before or after a low tide ‘“ particularly in a west wind or a full moon.
2. The $2M boat has wheels which costs almost $40,000.
3. The shallowest parts of the channel is at the eastern end (a rock ledge, yes’¦rock) and western (bayside) end (which is shoaljng). For us to get up on plane enough to make this passage, it is necessary for the large sport boats to go fast! There are only a few places in the creek itself where we can slow down in enough time to get up on plane again to get out.
4. Believe it or not big sport boat wakes are less annoying when they are up on plane and not chugging.
Please try and understand these boats also have the right to navigate this channel. And believe me, if we had a choice, we wouldn’t!
J. Copeland
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Angelfish Creek Eastern Entrance
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Wes Abell - November 11, 2015 - 9:57 pm

As Capt. Copeland stated it is necessary for large sport boats to stay on top to transit this stretch of water… I to captain a 50+ foot sport fish and have a draft of 5′-3″ and always run through at 25 plus KTS. I sometimes will have to wait for the East channel to be clear before shooting though and every once and a while there is someone in a center console that just doesn’t get it and we will meet in the worse possible spot… I cannot stop as it would result in disaster, so please pay attention to the larger boats up on top transiting Anglefish creek, we’re not trying to show off, only trying to get through!
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Oct 25, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
A Good Visit to Darien, GA via the Darien River, departing the AICW 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.
PLEASE NOTE: Marker # 184 denotes the AICW passage, not the Darien River channel!
Darien, Georgia
AICW Marker #184
On October 25, 2012, we are currently docked at the free Darien docks. This a wonderful place, well worth the trip of about seven miles up the Darien River. We came here on 10/24 at dead low tide. We saw two places with some shallow depths, one at R10 with 5.5 feet and one at R12 with six feet. At both locations depth went back up to 12+ feet very quickly. At low tide, the shoals are very visible, and the channel markers, and chartplotter were accurate. It took us about 1.25 hours to get here after leaving the ICW at R184. It was a pleasant run. We are a trawler, cruising with a sailboat. The town is lovely, with a Piggly Wiggly about a mile from the docks, and a hardware store about two blocks. The Wine Bar, near the hardware store is beautiful. This a wonderful side trip. Do not miss it. There are about 30 large shrimpboats docked just downstream of us. The only reason for four stars rather than five is the lack of restrooms, but it is free, including 30 amp power and water. What more can you ask for two nights free.
Thanks Claiborne for the suggestion on this one.
Norman Mason
Monk 36, Peggy Sue
Norfolk, VA
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
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fl G Marker #183
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