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CRUISERS NET
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from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
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FOCUS ON – Darien, Georgia
Darien City Docks lie along the northern banks of the Darien River, hard by the charted 31-foot fixed bridge, in the heart of downtown Darien, which is 7 nautical miles off AICW statute mile 651.5 via the fully marked Darien River Channel, featuring minimum 14 foot depths. Recent repairs to the docks add to the attractiveness of this lovely river port.
Up A Lazy River… Enjoy Darien Georgia
All along the 1,153 miles of Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, there are many rivers and creeks that meander off the ICW, inviting those with adventurous spirits to quaint, historical, charming towns and villages. Coastal Georgia offers several. About seven miles off the ICW, westward up the Darien River, the town of Darien is nestled in these barrier islands of Georgia.
As you cruise through Georgia, take an excursion off the beaten ICW path, along the banks of the Darien River to the quaint town of Darien, Georgia. This part of the down east, Georgia low country is part of what is affectionately called the “Golden Isles”. A small bit of trivia, it is said that the term “Golden Isles” was actually coined in the town of Darien. Sitting on the banks of the Darien River in an area of Georgia that is described by some as “one of the most important tidal estuarine environments in the world.”
So, lets go…..anchors aweigh !!
Arrival at the former Port of Darien, sitting in the midst of a vast coastal tidal estuary; among winding creeks with seemingly endless panoramic views of marshlands and small islands (called hammocks), you’ll find yourself surrounded with raw nature and fresh air. Your cruise up the Darien River will provide you with some interesting waters to ply, that have been used since the earliest days of the British presence in North America.
Enjoy the warm welcoming hospitality, their rich cultural history, southern charm, yummy locally prepared foods, and fun specialty shops. It is said if you come for a day, you may want to extend your stay.
Darien River Waterfront Park and Docks, welcomes you with overnight fees of only $1.00 per foot and this includes water and electric. Call this 912-437-6659 during normal business hours to make a reservation or after hours or weekends call 912-223-6821. Nice park area, adjacent to the town, and floating concrete docks, and welcoming hospitality, all to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Visit the historic sites such as Fort King George (complete with reenactments), the very first fort built on Georgia’s soil by the British.
Visit Darien at certain times of the year and you’ll be treated to vibrant festivals held along Darien’s Waterfront Park and along the streets of its newly revitalized downtown area. You will want to visit the Butler Plantation and rice fields, old churches, cemeteries and monuments.
Immerse yourself in a world where flowers bloom in every season, where butterflies and birds abound, and clear, blue skies form the backdrop for ancient evergreen oaks festooned with exotic, hanging moss. In November, the Darien Fall Fest features classic car shows, street vendors, helicopter and boat tours, fun for the kids, and musical entertainment.
There’s something new to see and do around every corner.
You might even find yourself listening to or trying to understand another language. That’s right, Gullah is a unique creole language spoken along the Sea Islands and adjacent coastal areas of South Carolina and Georgia. The residents in these areas of Georgia are typically referred to as “Geechee”. Gullah language began as a simplified form of communication among people of different languages including Europeans and diverse African ethnic groups. The vocabulary and grammatical roots come from European and African languages. Gullah Geechee language is the only distinctly African creole language in the United States and has influenced traditional Southern vocabulary and speech patterns. The culture and fascinating history and lives of the Gullah Geechee folks are an important part of this area of Georgia. You can learn more here: https://gullahgeecheecorridor.org
Want to get off the boat for a few days; enjoy a long warm shower after a day of sightseeing around Darien and surrounding area; then sink into the charm and comfort of the Darien Waterfront Inn Bed and Breakfast. Enjoy sitting on the porch and let the gentle breezes soothe your soul. JoAnn Viera offers this relaxing, renewing, river front sanctuary, for your enjoyment. They also offer free shuttle service to the grocery store so you can re-supply before continuing on.
https://www.darienwaterfrontinn.com/
If you need supplies, the First Georgia Hardware and Marine Supply store is only a few hundred yards from the Darien Waterfront Docks and Park.
Fresh produce and seasonal favorites are available within a very short walk to “Turnip Greens Country Market”. You just can’t beat fresh !
Speaking of “fresh”, if you want a break from preparing meals, you are in for a treat, as there are a number of places to enjoy fresh, local dishes prepared only as these fine folks can do. Just to mention some that others have spoken favorably about are the, Waterfront Wine & Gourmet, Blue Bay Mexican, B&J’s Seafood, and Skipper’s Fish Camp.
There are floating docks at Skippers and the first 48 hours are free. No water or electric, but we did say “free” for 48 hours. Puts you right at the kitchen door, almost on their riverfront porch. Skippers Fish Camp is located just under and on the west side of the Highway-17 bridge. It is, a great place to meet and make new friends while dining in this wonderful down-east, coastal town atmosphere.
Be sure to check out the bar and table tops, fashioned from timbers that had been floated down the Altamaha River from the interior during Darien’s days as a major port for timber export in the late 1800s. These milled timbers, salvaged from Brunswick, Georgia’s Oglethorpe Hotel, were saved and used as double flooring in Skippers Seafood Company’s legendary “poker shack”. The Oglethorpe Hotel was used in the Hollywood movie, The View from Pompeii’s Head. So, when you eat in the restaurant or hoist a cool one at the bar, you will be enjoying Georgia history and Hollywood history as well!
Here’s what some of those who’ve visited by boat have said about the good times they enjoyed during their visits to Darien:
Darien is a very pleasant side trip off the AICW, located 7 miles west of the AICW between Dolby and Altamaha Sounds at about MP 651. Turn into the Darien River at AICW Red 184, keeping it to port when turning into the river. Once past this point, markers are red-right-returning. The river is generally wide and deep. Pay particular attention to Red 12 and nearly adjacent Red 14, as their position in the river looks like they should be green, but they are RED. Keep between them and the nearby south bank. The rest of the trip is straight forward. Keep to the outside on turns and watch for floating vegetation. The outside of the last dock is usually open for transients and can handle large boats, depending on room at the time. Call ahead at 912-437-6659 to check availability. Approach to the facing dock into the current is easy and if you call ahead, Dockmaster Wyn will catch your lines. If you like the lowlands, this is a beautiful and wild stretch. The town is delightful and within a few blocks of the floating docks. Plenty for cruisers to do for a couple days. Because it can take some time to get there, depending on direction of the current. Darien is best as a visit destination and not a quick stopover along the AICW, at least for us slow boats. Darien rates are a dollar a foot including water and 30 amp electric, and I was told they will soon have free bicycles for use of overnight guests. Fuel is available at a nearby service station.
Frederick B.Found plenty of water on the Darien river. Chose to dock here to wait for tide to transit Little Mud creek.
It is 7 miles up the river, but was more than worth it. The volunteer dockmaster was very friendly and
helpful. Dinner at Skippers was great and the best Key Lime pie ever!…………. A. B.We just spent a couple days on the town dock in Darien GA… This town is very boater friendly and the
people were welcoming. We received a complimentary glass of wine one night while visiting the
Waterfront Wine & Gourmet, who also had live entertainment and a great wine selection. We ate some of the best shrimp we’ve tasted at B&J Seafood. We visited King George Fort and the Rice Plantation.
Well worth a visit. A must do!… R & TA quaint shrimping town N of Brunswick and well worth the stop… Floating concrete docks are
conveniently located right downtown…. Great food within walking distance – we’ve tried Skippers, B&J’s,….. all outstanding. Fort King George is an interesting historic site and the town has great bicycle trails around the perimeter of the city and within. The historic Butler rice plantation is 1 mile south,
Piggly Wiggly is 1.2 miles away, and a well-stocked Hardware/Marine Supply store is a couple of blocks away…W and RFor our boating friends, coming by water, check your charts and you will see that the Darien River offers plenty of depth most of the way. There are some skinny places as you get up river, but doable. I would recommend traveling on no less than half-tide rising. Here’s a chartlet from Cruisers Net, https://cruisersnet.net/
when turning into the river. Once past this point, markers are red-right-returning. The river is generally wide and deep. Pay particular attention to Red 12 and nearly adjacent Red 14, as their position in the river looks like they should be green, but they are RED. Keep between them and the nearby south bank. The rest of the trip is straight forward.
If you cannot come by sea, then please do so by land. Take time to enjoy a very special slice of down-east, coastal Georgia’s hospitality. Just a hop, skip, and jump off Interstate 95 and you are in the heart of Darien. Take exit 49 off I-95 onto Georgia State Highway#251 which leads you into US Hwy 17 and you are there.
Now that you know a little more about Darien, you are invited to visit and take a closer look at this very special place and enjoy some of its unique offerings. You will remember Darien as one of those towns where you had a great time and created new memories. Here’s a link to their website, take a look and plan this Fall to visit Darien.
http://www.cityofdarienga.com/en/ct-menu-item-15/ct-menu-item-21© Salty Southeast Cruisers Net, LLC
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 City Docks
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SC Boaters to be Impacted by Changes to Tax Collections
Your editor’s personal experience with tax officials in Charleston during the five years we lived aboard was very positive. Tax officials were boaters themselves and took every route to keep our taxes correct, especially after having received incorrect tax bills. Let’s hope these new changes will not affect how taxes are calculated.
Changes to county property tax collections will impact SC boat owners beginning in 2020Columbia, S.C. (Nov. 25, 2019) — As a result of legislation changing the way that counties collect property taxes on boats, in January of 2020, boat owners and buyers in South Carolina will begin to see changes in the way that boat registrations are issued by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The changes to the registration process will be phased in over the next three years as current registrations expire and will result in an annual registration process for boats that more closely mirrors the system used for automobiles.
The most visible and immediate change for boat owners will be that boat registration renewals will be done on an annual basis, rather than every three years as they are currently. The fee for the new annual registration will be $10 (1/3 the cost of the old three-year fee of $30). Once fully implemented, the annual registration fee will be included on and paid via the boat owner’s county property tax bill, just like SCDMV vehicle registration fees are paid, which should be more convenient for boat owners than getting a separate bill.Another change is that under the new law, property taxes for boats will be collected by counties in advance (or “prospectively”) for the coming year. Under the old system, property taxes for boats were collected “in arrears,” or for the previous year. Once the property taxes and registration renewal fee for the coming year have been paid by the owner, the county will notify SCDNR to issue a new set of annual registration numbers for that vessel.
These changes to state law were requested by counties to aid them in accurately collecting the property taxes due on boats. SCDNR is currently working with tax collection officials in all 46 counties to help implement the new requirements and ensure that boat registrations are integrated into the new, annual system. It’s important to note that for boat owners with current registrations, those registrations (and the decal and “numbers” issued by SCDNR for their hulls) will continue to be valid until they expire. The new system should also benefit the prospective buyers of used boats, by making it easier to determine if the property taxes on a potential used purchase are current. Buying a boat on which back property taxes are due can cause major headaches when the new owner attempts to title and register the vessel.
Key things for current/prospective boat owners to keep in mind
Currently Registered Boats: Current numbers & decals will remain valid until they expire. Counties won’t begin billing current owners for the annual registration until January of 2021, and only then once their current registration is due to expire. So, for a registration renewed in 2019, that owner’s tax bill should not reflect a charge for annual registration until 2022.Tax Questions: The change to annual registrations may change the look of your yearly tax notice from your county of residence. Counties will begin issuing the new, prospective, tax notices for boats registered within the county beginning in 2020. Individual counties will determine and implement changes to their tax collection processes as directed by the new law. Please note that questions about a boat owners’ individual tax bills MUST be directed to that county’s Auditor or Treasurer’s Office. SCDNR Boating Office assistants will NOT be able to assist owners with questions about their individual tax bills/notices.
Month of Expiration for New Registrations (new boats or used boats coming from out-of-state): New registrations will be based on the DATE OF SALE. For example: Upon registration, a boat purchased in January will receive a title and registration decal valid through the following January, regardless of when the owner applies for the registration (late fees will apply to registrations initiated more than 30 days after the date of purchase). A tax bill for the year covered by the registration will then be mailed by the county, and in subsequent years the county will mail a bill that includes the annual registration renewal.
In-State Changes of Ownership (transfer of an already-registered boat from one SC owner to another): After purchase, the new owner will need to visit their county tax office FIRST to pay the taxes due for the coming year. The new owner can then apply for title & registration in their name using the paid tax receipt and other required documents. (They will need to apply within 30 days of purchase to avoid late fees.)
Current Owners: The expiration month on the vessel’s current decal will continue to be the month that property taxes are due on that boat. For example, if the boat registration expires in June, then both property taxes and annual registration fees for the coming year will be due in June. (Again, current three-year registrations will be valid until the year of their expiration).
Non-taxable Boats Titled and Registered in S.C.: SCDNR will continue to mail renewal notices for boats that are non-taxable (boats that a county has determined have reached the end of their taxable life or dollar threshold). Their expiration month will not change, and the renewal notices will become annual.
Purchasing a Used Boat: SCDNR strongly recommends that prospective buyers research the registration and tax status and any potential recorded liens of any S.C.-registered boat BEFORE purchasing it, using our free online look-up service. Get the facts before you buy! at: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/boating.html. General information and commonly asked questions regarding S.C. boating laws, titling and registration can also be found at this location.
Shopping for boats at the Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic
Springtime is prime time for South Carolinians attending the Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic and other outdoor expos to shop for good deals on new boats. Both aspiring and current boat owners need to be aware of changes to how boat taxes and registration renewal fees are collected in the Palmetto State that will be implemented beginning in 2020.South Carolina Department of Natural Resources – Rembert C. Dennis Building
1000 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29201Comments from Cruisers (2)
- Reply to James
A transient vessel is just that,,,,,,,,,transient. You pull into port, stay a few days, off-load or load cargo, then depart. If you want to live there and avail yourself of government services, then register with the State/County.
- Reply to Tom
What about documented vessels?
Do documented vessels have to also be state registered?
Documented vessels don't have titles. Is that a problem?
What about people who do not own property in SC?
What about people who live out of state but have vessel in SC?
How long may a vessel be in SC before it is required to register in SC?
What is considered a transient vessel?
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Praise for Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club’s Relief Efforts for the Bahamas
Our thanks to Jim Lund for these good words for the fund raising efforts of RMHYC as posted on AGLCA’s Forum. See also Report from RMHYC, the Hope for Abaco Concert and Hurricane Dorian Relief Funds.
Many Loopers have done a side trip to the Bahamas – for us it was a highlight. We continue our membership with the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club (RMYYC). As many know, Marsh Harbour and much of the Abacos were obliterated by Hurricane Dorian. This year the RMHYC is donating all of their annual membership fees to the relief/rebuilding efforts on the Abacos.
They have also advised members that a benefit concert with all proceeds going to rebuilding the Bahamas will be held in Stuart Fla on Dec 14th. Tickets are fully tax deductible (not sure about us Canadians). I’ve been to Barerfoot Man concert at Nippers in the Bahamas – what a hoot! He is a staple in the Caribbean music scene and will be appearing with several other professional acts.
Soooooo…. if you’re thinking of a trip to the Bahamas in the future, consider joining the RMHYC now. Its very inexpensive and they have discounts and reciprocal arrangements throughout the Bahamas Our membership had paid for itself before we even made it to Marsh Harbour. More info can be found here: RMHYC.
And if you want to have a fun afternoon of laid back, fun tropical music, I hope to see you Dec 14. More info here: Hope for Abaco Concert
Thanks!
Jim Lund
Tyre-less1 Facebook Likes, 2 Facebook Reactions
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Scott
Jim, Thanks for your kind words. The RMHYC has temporarily relocated itself at the Harborage Marina in Stuart this year. Once the renewal season closes at the end of December, we will be donating all of the renewal dollars collected to the relief effort. There are many fine organizations that have "boots on the ground" in Marsh Harbor and the surrounding area. Our job will be to choose the one(s) that we believe fit best with our purpose statement which reads in part "to provide equipment, grants and other support services to persons or community organizations in the Marsh Harbour vicinity for the benefit of the cruising community". The cruising community will benefit most if the area can become Open for Business as quick as possible. Then cruisers can travel safely to the area and further infuse the economy of the Abacos.
Scott Coles
Commodore
Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club
http://www.rmhyc.com
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Warning for Jekyll Creek Depths, AICW Problem Stretch, GA Statute Mile 683
Our thanks to Bill Weeks of Jekyll Harbor Marina, A Cruisers Net Sponsor, for this critical Local Knowledge regarding safe passage of this ICW Problem Stretch.
Jekyll Creek was dredged last spring. The catch is, that only half of the 150’ channel width was dredged. The COE did a 75’ swath from the centerline of the channel to the EASTERN edge. In this part of the creek you will have 10 feet at mean low water. Boaters should be advised in transiting this part of the ICW that they should stay to the seaward side of the centerline. otherwise they will be in very shallow water even though their chart plotted sales they are in the “channel”. Anyway you guys could help get this word out? As you say, the sailboaters are still coming in good numbers, and this knowledge is very critical to them.
Many thanks and best regards,Bill Weeks
Jekyll Harbor Marina
Click Here To View the Cruisers Net AICW Problem Stretches Listing For Jekyll CreekClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem StretchBe the first to comment!
Welcome Aboard Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina, Hilton Head, SC
Cruisers Net is delighted to welcome aboard a new participating sponsor, Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina, on Hilton Head Island. Shelter Cove Marina sits in the center of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and the marina’s state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive amenities are complemented by the lowcountry charm of the island. All kinds of water sports and activities may be enjoyed at Shelter Cove Marina, from inshore and offshore fishing charters to sport crabbing, sailing and dolphin tours, sightseeing and nature excursions. The skilled professional staff work hard to ensure that your visit will be most enjoyable.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina
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Disaster Recovery Bill Clears Legislature, Ocracoke, NC
This definitely good news for Ocracoke, a popular port for cruisers .
Click here for Disaster Recovery Bill Clears Legislature
Coastal Review Online
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Bahamas Chatter: New Fees for Bahamas
Bahamas Chatter is produced by Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, which has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: New Fees for Bahamas
New Fees for BahamasPosted: 13 Nov 2019 08:33 AM PST
The official start of new cruising permit entry fees for The Bahamas is scheduled for January 1, 2020. However, when we talked to a high level Customs official in Nassau, we were told that the new fees were in effect now. Even so, we have confirmation from boaters that have recently arrived in the Bahamas that there are no changes to the cruising fees. We can hope that there will be an indefinite delay in enforcing the new schedule, but anything can happen any time!
Sara and Monty Lewis,
Explorer Chartbooks
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Alan
Friends cleared in at Alicetown, Bimini on November 12th. They report that they were issued a 12 month cruising permit under the old fee schedule. No changes yet.
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Virtual Navigation by Ryck Lydecker of BoatUS
If there’s a buoy on your chartplotter, and from the helm it’s nowhere to be seen (even with your best 10x50s), is it really there? And, if so, can this really be an aid to YOUR navigation?
Click here for Virtual Navigation Is Here, Like It Or Not
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Anchoring Restrictions in Georgia-IMPORTANT UPDATE by Kim Russo
Our thanks to Director Kim Russo for this update on anchoring in Georgia as posted on AGLCA’s Forum.
Since publication of proposed rules for HB201 in late May, many individuals and boating groups have voiced strong opposition to the intent of the law and subsequent rules. Following a public meeting in June, a record number of public comments submitted to GA’s Coastal Resource Division of DNR, and a Stakeholders’ Meeting at CRD headquarters in Brunswick in late July, it became apparent that changes were needed in HB201. Following weeks of review and exchange of ideas between several boating stakeholder groups and individuals, areas of concern in HB201 were identified and suggested revisions were developed.
Stakeholders representing Waterway Guide, a coalition of membership organizations (including America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA), Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA), Marine Trawler Owners’ Association (MTOA), and Defever Cruisers), National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), and Save Georgia’s Anchorages contributed suggested revisions for GA’s Anchoring Law – HB201 and have submitted these changes to key GA legislators in hopes of getting a bill introduced in the 2020 session of the General Assembly.
We have stressed the point that responsible boaters want to be involved in the process and help to find solutions instead of being viewed as part of the problem. A summary of the suggested revisions to HB201 will be shared with our membership as soon as possible.
Kim Russo
Director
America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ AssociationBe the first to comment!
Pumpout Service Unavailable at Fort Pierce City Marina, AICW Statute Mile 966.5
Cruisers Net has confirmed that pumpout service will not be available at Fort Pierce City Marina until new pumpout lines have been installed. No completion date is projected due to the reconstruction complexities. Fort Pierce City Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is aware of the new regulations at Vero Beach City Marina and of the inconvenience boaters may experience in trying to find pumpout service.
For an unknown length of time, the Fort Pierce City Marina will no longer be able to offer pump-outs anywhere on-site due to construction – not at their fuel dock nor at any dock slips as usual. Whether just a fuel stop and/or transient dockage – keep this in mind. To verify the current situation, please phone in advance so you can plan to pump-out elsewhere prior to your arrival, if needed.
Russ RackliffeClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fort Pierce City Marina
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Update: New Vero Beach City Marina Pumpout Mandatory Requirements
Cruisers Net has confirmed the new regulations at Vero Beach City Marina. Please phone the marina before docking to arrange a pumpout: 772-231-2819 or 772-978-4960.
11/10 Cruisers Net received this cuarification from Vero Beach Marina:
Vessels that have reservations for mooring balls are the main focus and before they secure to a ball,they MUST come to fuel dock, get their mooring ball assignment, and get pumped out or show acceptable evidence of a recent pump out with enough remaining capacity to cover their reservation time AND have the “Y-Valve” secured .Pump outs at the fuel dock are free…if they have to come out to your vessel the pumpout is $5 dollars.If your Y-Valve is not secured, they will issue you a labeled tag for your reservation that will be used tosecure the Y-valve.New Vero Beach City Marina Pump-out Mandatory Requirements
The Vero Beach City Marina has just instituted new requirements for any vessel coming in for a dock or mooring. You MUST now come to the fuel dock for a mandatory pump-out FIRST before going to your slip or mooring. You will also be issued a numbered cable tie for your discharge valve. This has apparently been pushed on them by environmental groups & will be enforced with “random sweeps” by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Agency (as reported in the media).
Russ Rackliffe1 Facebook Likes, 1 Facebook Reactions
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Jon
The poster is correct. Mandatory pump out unless you can produce a pump out log showing a recent pump out
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Proper Use of VHF Channels 16 and 13 by Roger Long
Our thanks to Roger Long for this discussion on the use of channel 13 and channel 16.
This also applies to passing and meeting discussions. Every vessel on waterways such as the ICW should be monitoring 13 as well as 16 for situational awareness about the bridges and what commercial traffic is doing. Few do so however so you will usually need to hail a vessel you are overtaking on 16 if you want to alert them. If your call is just, “Rover, this is Sea Queen passing you to port.” and all you need back it “Roger” or “Go Ahead”, then that is OK. However, if you want to ask which side, do they want a slow pass, etc., you should ask them to switch to another channel first. If someone overtaking you asks questions requiring more than a one word response, you should ask them to switch to another channel.
Following frequent USCG admonishments a couple days ago, most ICW travelers were switching to 17 or 68 for passing discussions after an initial 16 hail. This is fine but it makes more sense to use the channel identified for the purpose. Contrary to urban legend, 13 is not a channel for commercial craft. It just sounds like it because professionals use it as intended. 13 is the Bridge (helm) to Bridge (helm) channel for exchange of navigational information between vessels in a common situation such as passing or meeting. If you listen to it in busy areas such as the Saint John River, you’ll learn that the professionals NEVER call each other on 16 first. A direct hail on 13 is appropriate and saves 16 clutter. The reason commercial vessels hail recreational vessel on 16 first is because they know most yacht drivers are ignorant and don’t waste time trying to get them the proper way first. In the Saint John River, if you listen, you’ll discover that the pilots almost always hail yachts on 13 first because they want to follow correct procedure. You can then hear the eye roll (another idiot) as they hail on 16 and ask for a switch to 13. I’ve often heard them tell yachts to please stay on 13 all the time they are in the river.
We have a sign just below our name board that says, “Hail CH 13 to Pass”. It saves a lot of 16 airtime and button pushing. I monitor 16 (as legally required) via dual watch and switch to that for the few boats that ignore the sign. I have had many commercial professionals complement me on the sign and tell me they wish every yacht had one. An aside: Commercial vessels hate being hailed on 16 for passing and meeting calls because they are all using 13 as their primary channel and are required, unlike recreational craft, to have it on a second radio which may be located farther out of reach and which they seldom use. Calling them on 13 tells them that you know your radio procedure. I now use 13 as my primary channel on the waterways because my sign will bring most passing calls in on it. If I need to talk to someone in a hurry, it will probably be a tug and barge coming unexpectedly around a bend. They don’t come around unexpectedly as much any more because I have been listening to 13 and hearing them all along.
A big reason for using 13 is also that it defaults to low power so that you are not sharing your navigational discussions with boats 20-30 miles in each direction. 16 defaults to high power. Even if you know to hit the H/L button, every time most radios return to 16 from another channel to to scan or operator switch, 16 will be switched to 25 watts. Almost nobody, including myself, can remember to press H/L EVERY time before making a 16 transmission to a nearby boat or marina. Getting the waterway cruising community used to using 13 properly would eliminate a lot of 16 clutter. This would be of major benefit to vessels taking the outside route. They have to listen to the “This is the trawler behind the white sailboat. We hope you are having a very nice day and would like to know which side you would like us to pass on and whether you would like a slow pass.” drivel all the way down. I have had many tell me that the fear during the fall snowbird parade that they are afraid the could not get a distress heard in event of fire or sudden flooding. Just listening to it all day long is also annoying.
After you have figured out your passing arrangements on 13, if you want to tell the other vessel how nice it is, talk about where they are going, etc., then it is time to switch to another working channel. If your initial call to a nearby vessel is not about passing, meeting, or other exchange of navigation information, then the initial hail should be on 16 followed by switching to a working channel.
I’ve been massively flamed on the Internet for these thoughts but have yet to have one commercial professional disagree with me.
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Tom
Thank you for your post. I'm always telling people about doing this. I get a lot of guff for being a jerk. Another nice thing about monitoring 13 is that it improves your opinion of the human race.: People on 13 are almost universally polite and helpful.
I especially remember one time at the Savannah River crossroads. Before I ever got anywhere near the river on the ICW, I knew, from listening to the radio, that there would be three ships passing at about the same time I would arrive and slowed down to avoid arriving early. Another boat near me wondered what I was doing and I explained. I told them it was always a good idea to monitor 13 on the ICW but they didn't think it was worthwhile for a yacht to do.
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Addendum to LNM: REMINDER – a Radio Flowchart
Our thanks to Roger Long for this excellent flowchart for your VHF radio. Roger is responding to LNM: REMINDER: Channel 16 is Not for Chit Chat. The radio flowchart should be taped to your VHF.
Comments from Cruisers (2)
- Reply to Roger
Have actually you tried using your horn?
Usually when I have, I got a finger because people think I'm just saying "Get out of my way" and not which side I intend to pass. Almost nobody on the water knows what the signals mean. I have no idea whether they do or not and thus no idea which way they will turn. In much of the waterway, it is also annoying to people who live on the shore.
- Reply to Perry
Use your horn for passing another boat.
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Good Words for Morehead City Yacht Basin, NC AICW Statute Mile 203
Morehead City Yacht Basin, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located on the southern flank of the marked channel that runs west from Mile 203 of the Waterway, just north of the Morehead-Beaufort high-rise bridge. Our thanks to Bru Brubaker for these king words.
We continue to stop at Morehead City Yacht Basin because of good protection, proximity of restaurants, GREAT dock hands, clean facility, good bathrooms, easy off and back on ICW, and the nice boaters who use this marina. If fueling and/or pumping out, pay attention to the floater in the basin; the depth is shallow outside it. The Ruddy Duck Restaurant has outstanding crispy duck in a serving large enough for lunch seconds the next day.
Bru BrubakerClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Morehead City Yacht Basin
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LNM: REMINDER: Channel 16 is Not for Chit Chat
This is a reminder that is unneeded for most of boaters, but obviously there are still those, both amateur and professional, who do not know or respect the rules of the airwaves.
MSIB 48-19 VHF Marine Channel 16 Designated for Emergency Calls Only – Sector Charleston, SC
VHF Channel 16 (156.8MHz) is the international hailing and distress frequency. The Coast Guard continuously monitors CH 16 for any distress calls. Excessive chatter can impede Coast Guard response operations. Prohibited Channel 16 communications include: excessive chatter, obscene language, routine messages and radio tests. Mariners are reminded that prohibited radio chatter increases the risk of genuine distress calls being missed by response personnel. Automated radio checks can be conducted on VHF CH 26 and 27. Marinas can be reached on CH 12, 14, 68, and 69.This MSIB can be viewed at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/charleston. For questions or concerns, please contact the Sector’s 24-hour Command Center at (843) 740-7050.
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Roger
This also applies to passing and meeting discussions. Every vessel on waterways such as the ICW should be monitoring 13 as well as 16 for situational awareness about the bridges and what commercial traffic is doing. Few do so however so you will usually need to hail a vessel you are overtaking on 16 if you want to alert them. If your call is just, “Rover, this is Sea Queen passing you to port.” and all you need back it “Roger” or “Go Ahead”, then that is OK. However, if you want to ask which side, do they want a slow pass, etc., you should ask them to switch to another channel first. If someone overtaking you asks questions requiring more than a one word response, you should ask them to switch to another channel.
Following frequent USCG admonishments a couple days ago, most ICW travelers were switching to 17 or 68 for passing discussions after an initial 16 hail. This is fine but it makes more sense to use the channel identified for the purpose. Contrary to urban legend, 13 is not a channel for commercial craft. It just sounds like it because professionals use it as intended. 13 is the Bridge (helm) to Bridge (helm) channel for exchange of navigational information between vessels in a common situation such as passing or meeting. If you listen to it in busy areas such as the Saint John River, you’ll learn that the professionals NEVER call each other on 16 first. A direct hail on 13 is appropriate and saves 16 clutter. The reason commercial vessels hail recreational vessel on 16 first is because they know most yacht drivers are ignorant and don’t waste time trying to get them the proper way first. In the Saint John River, if you listen, you’ll discover that the pilots almost always hail yachts on 13 first because they want to follow correct procedure. You can then hear the eye roll (another idiot) as they hail on 16 and ask for a switch to 13. I’ve often heard them tell yachts to please stay on 13 all the time they are in the river.
We have a sign just below our name board that says, “Hail CH 13 to Pass”. It saves a lot of 16 airtime and button pushing. I monitor 16 (as legally required) via dual watch and switch to that for the few boats that ignore the sign. I have had many commercial professionals complement me on the sign and tell me they wish every yacht had one. An aside: Commercial vessels hate being hailed on 16 for passing and meeting calls because they are all using 13 as their primary channel and are required, unlike recreational craft, to have it on a second radio which may be located farther out of reach and which they seldom use. Calling them on 13 tells them that you know your radio procedure. I now use 13 as my primary channel on the waterways because my sign will bring most passing calls in on it. If I need to talk to someone in a hurry, it will probably be a tug and barge coming unexpectedly around a bend. They don’t come around unexpectedly as much any more because I have been listening to 13 and hearing them all along.
A big reason for using 13 is also that it defaults to low power so that you are not sharing your navigational discussions with boats 20-30 miles in each direction. 16 defaults to high power. Even if you know to hit the H/L button, every time most radios return to 16 from another channel to to scan or operator switch, 16 will be switched to 25 watts. Almost nobody, including myself, can remember to press H/L EVERY time before making a 16 transmission to a nearby boat or marina. Getting the waterway cruising community used to using 13 properly would eliminate a lot of 16 clutter. This would be of major benefit to vessels taking the outside route. They have to listen to the “This is the trawler behind the white sailboat. We hope you are having a very nice day and would like to know which side you would like us to pass on and whether you would like a slow pass.” drivel all the way down. I have had many tell me that the fear during the fall snowbird parade that they are afraid the could not get a distress heard in event of fire or sudden flooding. Just listening to it all day long is also annoying.
After you have figured out your passing arrangements on 13, if you want to tell the other vessel how nice it is, talk about where they are going, etc., then it is time to switch to another working channel. If your initial call to a nearby vessel is not about passing, meeting, or other exchange of navigation information, then the initial hail should be on 16 followed by switching to a working channel.
I’ve been massively flamed on the Internet for these thoughts but have yet to have one commercial professional disagree with me.
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Bahamas Chatter: New Customs fees question
Bahamas Chatter is produced by Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, which has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: New Customs fees question
New Customs fees questionPosted: 07 Nov 2019 02:09 PM PST
I see the new fees for a 35 foot boat are $300 for three months and $600 for a year. What are the fees for 4 months?? Is it that you have three months at $300, then after that you have to pay for the entire year at $600 more or is it $300 more making it $600 for the year? If you are checking in and want to stay 4-5 months do you just pay the $600 for the year then?? Please only reply if you are sure of your answer. Thanks.
PS I like the idea of reciprocating the US entry fee for Bahamian boats coming to the USA.Comments from Cruisers (3)
- Reply to Scott
Although none of this has been tested yet as I understand the new fees do not go into effect until January 2020 I would imagine that it would work much like before. When you check in you buy a cruising permit. In the past, that was good for a year and cost $xx. Now you only get 3 months for $xx or a year for twice that amount. So when you check in you should know which you want to purchase. Do not confuse the cruising permit which is "attached" to the vessel with a visa which is "attached" to the individual person(s). In the past we have been granted 150 day visas and other times the max that they would give was 90 days. The visa can be renewed by appearing in person at the appropriate place. For us this was in the Marsh Harbor government building. I don't know how that is working mow. It would be best to request as much time as you can get the first time so as not to need it renewed.
- Reply to Stephanie
I am a seasonal resident of Grand Bahama. I am making contacts now to get you the correct answer.
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Marine Industries Association Treasure Coast Adds Classifieds! Stuart, FL
At the intersection of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the Okeechobee Waterway, Martin County, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is a hub of boating activity and of events of interest to boaters.
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Bahamas Chatter: Long Island and Crooked-Acklins
Bahamas Chatter is produced by Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, which has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
Bahamas Chatter: Long Island and Crooked-Acklins
Long Island and Crooked-AcklinsPosted: 06 Nov 2019 04:02 AM PST
Just looking for any information on the general conditions of Long Island and Acklins-Crooked Islands regarding storm damages. We were at Long Island in 2015, before hurricane Joaquin, and are leaving SC in a few weeks, heading back down. I plan to call some marinas and businesses there but have not done that yet. Has anyone been there recently, or have any good current info?
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More Good Words for Oriental Marina and Inn, Oriental, NC, Neuse River, AICW Statute Mile 181
Oriental is home to longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, Oriental Marina and Inn, lying on the eastern banks of inner Oriental Harbor. Our thanks to Bill Brubaker for these kind words.
Great help getting us in. Adequate depth under our 4′ keel. Bathrooms good. Restaurant was closed, but we’ve eaten good food here before and were disappointed we arrived on the only day closed during the week. However, great meal at M&M’s restaurant a short walk away. My wife likes shopping in this little town.
Bill BrubakerClick Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Oriental Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Oriental Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (1)
Get off your butt and answer this simply request to assist the only LIFELINE available when you really have an EMERGENCY out in the deep blue. Lets flood the office of CONGRESS with this request and get something of benefit done for our USCG.