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    • Jan 30, 2017by:   Larry Dorminy 5 Comments

      Seven Seas Cruising Association Asks Your Support to Defeat Florida’s Anti-Anchoring Legislation

      The Concerned Cruisers’ Committee (CCC) of Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA) has, for many years, supported the rights of cruisers to navigate, anchor and enjoy the “Seven Seas” both in the U.S. and abroad. We have had recent success in Annapolis and in Georgia, and we are engaged in South Carolina, Washington and California.

      CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOTE: Ignore the “Log In to Donate” and go directly to name/address form.
       

      1/23 A good news update from MTOA Public Advocate, Mike Bodin:

      But as of now (1/23/2017), SSCA, AGLCA and MTOA have raised over half of the funds from their membership for the Lobbyists. Capital Assets has agreed to represent the boating community and their office is in Tallahassee.

      And this from Mike Bodin:

      Mates,
      As you know Florida’s legislative session has started. The Environmental Preservation and Conservation committee heard the first presentation by The Fish and Wildlife Conversation commission (FWC) on the Anchoring and Mooring Pilot Program. [See /161714] Anti-anchoring representatives were present and offered presentations.

      The window is closing for us to be effective with ongoing legislation. Capitol Access team did a great job representing our anchoring concerns in 2014,and 15. Without professional representation I fear legislation will be made and passed into law prohibiting anchoring by county designation with state approval. This Florida law can be the basis of others to follow along the ICW corridor. Like cancer, a small start than it spreads and very difficult to stop.

      Time is against us to raise monies for a professions lobbyist. MTOA donation survey results are very promising, AGLCA is now surveying their members and results will be available shortly.

      SSCA CCC has lead the boating community in the past. Anti-Anchoring is a pain in every boater’s thoughts. Future state laws to prevent anchoring along the ICW surely can be compared to the spread of cancer. We must unite and knock it out before it gains traction.

      Enclosed is a boaters rights donation form to your GoFunfMe site. Due to the tremendous time limitation now in place we request SSCA blast email the form to your membership. Within a couple of days, we will have a good idea if a lobbyist can be added to our anti-anchoring efforts.

      Thank you for consideration and hopefully participation.

      Mike Bodin
      MTOA Public Advocate

      CLICK HERE FOR MORE FROM MTOA

      And from America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association:

      Boater’s Rights Interest Survey
      Florida’s 1,000-mile intracoastal waterway has often been called the boaters’ highway. Wealthy waterside residents in conjunction with several counties want to enact anti-anchoring laws. Last year Florida’s governor signed into law temporary nighttime anti-anchoring restrictions in several counties. Boaters must unite to stop the spread of anti-anchoring legislation.

      CLICK HERE FOR AGLCA’s SURVEY ON BOATERS’ RIGHTS

      CLICK HERE for more information on Seven Seas Cruising Association

       

      4 Facebook Likes, 4 Facebook Reactions

      Comments from Cruisers (5)

      2. Phil Barbalace -  February 14, 2017 - 10:58 am

        Quoted Text: [from AGLCA Forum]

        “Yes, Florida residents should care. Snowbirds should care. Loopers and long distance cruisers should care. Boaters who never leave their home waters in Rhode Island or California or Maryland should care. You should care, Phil. Suppose you can no longer anchor in Mattawoman Creek or down at Tim’s Rivershore?”

        I agree with your points Dave, 100%. (Actually a better analogy might have been the creeks around Annapolis–hardly anyone lives at Mattawoman or Tims.) But the reality of the anchoring problem is that we need money and we need volunteers and you just ain’t getting them from Tennessee (no offense to those in Tenn.)

        That everyone should care is a valid but weak argument. Those of us who made a donation whether large or small, did so partially because it was made easy, with a few mouse clicks and a credit card. Throwing stuff at the wall hoping some of it will stick is not an effective call-to-arms.

        If I was a retiree boater living in FL I would more inclined to volunteer to drive to Miami or Tallahassee and foot the hotels bills at my expense. I’m neither of those and personally, we have our hands full up here in the Northern VA. That’s why we spread the loop out over 2 years instead of doing it all at once. Plus, with a take-no-prisoners style of doing things, anything I would do might be counter-productive! Some probably look at this as “someone else’s problem” but we certainly don’t.

        Will it “spread to other east coast states”? Not in our lifetimes. Florida is a unique critical mass of anchorages, waterfront homeowners and boaters.. The few causing problems are the problem. Google “anchoring laws” or “anchoring restrictions” and Florida dominates. Number two California isn’t even close.

        This debate has already attracted a healthy attention to the problem. Hey, Jim Healy has signed on. We owe him big time just for his informative contributions to the forum. Him volunteering for the anchoring work is above and beyond. Jim, we are buying you and Peg dinner if we ever meet up. Others should do the same. And thanks to the others who have volunteered!

        There are over 4,400 AGLCA members. If every member contributed only $25 (some did more) you would have well over $100,000. Just like crowdfunding (yes, you can laugh). That’s a healthy start instead of the 20K collected so far which is only a 20% participation rate, roughly. Just a few mouse clicks and a credit card. But if you want volunteers, make it easier like the contributions and focus on Florida. That’s where the problem is. So is the solution.

        Phil Barbalace
        2009 Mainship 40 Seascape
        Gold Loopers 2016
        Vienna, Va.

        Reply to Phil
      3. Jim Quince -  January 26, 2017 - 2:48 pm

        The various boating groups have come together just in time to hire a capable lobbyist (Jerry Paul) who happens to be a boater who recently moved his boat north by Tallahassee. Yesterday the Trawlers & Trawlering list owner endorsed the effort and asked members to support it.
        While there have been many people involved, Mike Bodin of MTOA should be commended for staying involved, taking the lead and keeping the boating community informed.
        Jim Quince

        Reply to Jim
      4. Jim Quince -  January 20, 2017 - 9:46 am

        Something to keep an eye on…..
        It has been reported that the chair of the Senate committee that received jurisdiction to hear the FWC Anchoring Report (and the committee most likely to originate anti-anchoring legislation) is chaired by a newly elected Senator who happens to be the daughter of the lead lobbyist who has represented the anti-anchoring interests for the last several sessions. We do not know whether she has preconceived opinions or biases on our topics. She did not display a bias in this first hearing. We must give her the benefit of the doubt and commit ourselves to working with her in a professional manner throughout this process.
        Jim Quince

        Reply to Jim
      5. perry -  January 13, 2017 - 4:39 pm

        In the current 2017 session of the Florida Senate and House there are no anchoring bills or committee discussions on anchoring.

        Reply to perry
    • Jan 26, 2017by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      AGLCA Fights for Boaters’ Rights Update

      America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association has joined other boating organizations is requesting donations toward lobbying for boaters’ rights in Florida. See /162138 for more information.

      As a result of the recent survey on anti-boating legislation, AGLCA is beginning to accept donations along with other boating organizations to hire a lobbyist to represent our interests at the Florida Legislature. This link can be used to make your contribution to the Boaters’ Rights Lobbyist Fund. When making your contribution, consider how much money you save in slip fees by having the ability to anchor. If you would like more information on this issue, you can view my recent forum posting.

      Thank you for joining AGLCA in this lobbying effort. I will keep you posted as we move forward with this issue.
      Kim
      Kimberly Russo
      Director
      America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association
      krusso@greatloop.org 

      1/26/2017
      Update:

      The three associations leading this charge (AGLCA, MTOA, and SSCA) are doing well in the fund raising effort. To date, 161 AGLCA members have contributed. We’re so thankful for all of those contributions, but there are about 100 more of you who answered our survey last week expressing your intention to contribute. If you have not yet done so, please make your contribution by clicking here as soon as possible.

      Although we are not yet at the $35,000 goal, we believe that number is attainable. In addition to contributing substantial time, effort, and administrative expenses, AGLCA and MTOA have agreed to help bridge the gap, if one exists after all contributions are in, to reach the needed amount. Since the amount needed is within reach, we have retained a lobbying firm (Capitol Access) in Tallahassee to represent our interests this legislative session. The goals have been defined as follows:

      Prevent the passage of Florida legislation that would ban or curtail overnight anchoring on public waters in locations defined by proximity to upland private dwelling units including but not limited to other provisions that unduly restrict anchoring on public waters.
      Monitor and track all legislation that could adversely affect our members’ interests.
      Increase our presence among officials in Florida government to build an enduring image of strong influence for the boating and cruising community on matters related to the lifestyle of boaters and cruisers on Florida’s waterways.
      Our lobbyist/consultant has agreed to:

      Monitor, track and report to the AGLCA all legislation and amendments filed or otherwise considered in Florida that could affect the interests of our members.
      Meet with key officials within Florida government to introduce AGLCA as a leader for the interests of cruisers and other boaters that it is now represented in Florida’s Capitol.
      Provide proactive lobbying and advocacy to actively support the legislative positions of AGLCA including but not limited to opposing Florida legislation that would ban or curtail overnight anchoring on public waters in locations defined by proximity to upland private dwelling units. This will include the organization of messaging and public appearances in the Capitol by members of the cruising community who support AGLCA’s positions.
      Report to AGLCA at least monthly the meetings and activities conducted on behalf of AGLCA.
      Jerry Paul, President of Capitol Access, is a trawler owner, lifelong cruiser, marine engineer, attorney, former elected member of the Florida Legislature and former Presidential-Appointed, U.S. Senate-Confirmed Official within the U.S. Department of Energy. He has extensive experience in the transportation field, maritime industry, boating, cruising, energy, government affairs and communications including a balance of experience in operations, regulatory, legislative, finance and restructuring work. Jerry is a graduate of Maine Maritime Academy and has held U.S.C.G. licenses as an engineer and captain. Jerry has also extended our coalition of boating associations a very generous discount for his services. Thank you, Jerry!
      Kim Russo
      Director
      America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association
      krusso@greatloop.org

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    • Jan 10, 2017by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Florida Fish and Wildlife Management Area System is 75 Years Old

      FWC celebrates 75 years of wildlife management area conservation success

      In 2017, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the wildlife management area system, one of the state’s greatest natural treasures. The FWC oversees this statewide network of remote and scenic lands, managing them for conservation and recreation. To celebrate the milestone and help people discover the opportunities these public lands offer, the FWC is hosting free events throughout the year.

      “Florida has one of the largest systems of public lands in the country at nearly 6 million acres, and these lands are the best of the best of what wild Florida has to offer,” said FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski. “These natural communities span a variety of habitats from longleaf pine uplands and pine flatwoods to the hardwood hammocks and sawgrass savannas of the Everglades. Not only are these areas beautiful, they are managed to provide habitat for many species of wildlife and access for people to enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and more.”

      Florida’s first WMA, Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area, was established in late 1941 in Charlotte and Lee counties. By the 1960s, there were 28 WMAs. Today, the FWC is the lead manager or landowner of over 1.4 million acres, and works in partnership with other governmental or private landowners on another 4.5 million acres. These healthy habitats are essential to Florida wildlife – both common and imperiled species. The FWC uses its scientific expertise and a comprehensive ecological approach to manage a variety of wildlife while balancing public access to these wild lands.

      WMAs provide many recreational opportunities including paddling, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, photography, wildlife viewing, and target shooting at areas with a public shooting range. They also offer a wide range of hunting opportunities including special hunts for families and people with disabilities. Throughout 2017, the FWC will host a variety of events to celebrate Florida’s WMAs. Events include a statewide geocaching challenge, volunteer work days, a photo contest, guided hikes, fun opportunities to explore WMAs, and citizen science bioblitzes where members of the public help document wildlife species at WMAs.

      To learn more about upcoming events or to find a WMA near you, visit MyFWC.com/WMA75. Share your visits to Florida WMAs on social media by using #WMAzing.

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    • Nov 22, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Seeking Deep Water Channel Marina off Northern Hawk Channel

      If you have local knowledge of marina entrance channels that can accommodate a 5’5″ draft, let us hear from you. August is asking about Hawk Channel from Biscayne Bay to Marathon.

      Our sailboat draws 5’5″. I can’t seem to find ANY marinas on the ocean side We can get in about halfway on the trip. Any suggestions?
      August Trometer,  email: atrometer@me.com

       

       

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Michael Moorehead -  November 25, 2016 - 3:34 pm

        We too draw 5.5 feet. Best solution I have is to anchor overnight at Rodriguez Key, about half way to Marathon. Marathon and Key West will offer you marina options.

        Reply to Michael
      2. Mike Curreri -  November 25, 2016 - 2:55 pm

        Anchoring by Rodriguez Key is the best alternative. Ocean Reef claims to have an 8′ approach at MLW, but I have been told there is a 5′ bump. No personal knowledge yet (going to try it in a few days.

        Reply to Mike
    • Oct 13, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Discussion of Boater Education Requirement in Florida

      This discussion comes from Kevin Wadlow on keynoter.com.

      Boaters operating in Florida Bay waters of Everglades National Park must complete an online education course under a new regulation expected to take effect within months.

      That pending rule prompted advisers to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to ponder whether a similar educational requirement could be adopted to help protect oceanic resources in the 2,900-square-mile sanctuary. he question returns to the volunteer sanctuary council at its next meeting, Oct. 18 in Ocean Reef on North Key Largo.

      In August, Everglades National Park planner Fred Herling briefed the sanctuary council on the park’s new Florida Bay boating rules scheduled to “roll out in late 2016.” Those will require completion of a free one-hour online boat-operator course that focuses on “resource protection, safety [and] respectful boating.”

      The course must be completed before boat owners can get an annual or seven-day permit to operate in park waters. Park boat permits likely will cost $50 per year or $25 for seven days, but fees may be phased in over a period of months. When enacted, fees to launch at the Flamingo ramp will be dropped.

      Boat-permit proceeds, estimated at $500,000 annually, would help increase funding for on-the-water enforcement rangers, marker maintenance and marine research, Herling said.

      Everglades National Park has authority to enact boat permit fees and operator-education requirements for Florida Bay waters that lie in its jurisdiction. The marine sanctuary lacks such authority.

      With an updated management plan for the Keys sanctuary taking shape, now may be the time to seek a new boating-education rule, some council members suggested in August. Others expressed doubt, pointing to a complex maze of regulatory approvals needed at the state and federal level.

      Advocates of boater education for sanctuary waters, largely intended to keep vessels from striking reefs or scarring shallow seagrass flats, have made their case since the national marine sanctuary’s inception in 1990. But enacting a sanctuary boating license remains little more than an uncertain concept.

      The Oct. 18 agenda item, “Boater Education in the Florida Keys,” is scheduled for approximately 2:15 p.m. at the Ocean Reef Cultural Center.

      “It’s essentially a continuation of the earlier discussion on the potential to seek something like Everglades National Park, whether it’s mandatory or voluntary,” Deputy Superintendent Beth Dieveney said Thursday.

      Council members could ask for more specific information on the process or vote on a resolution.

      The Sanctuary Advisory Council, comprising 20 appointed Keys representatives from community, business and conservation sectors, does not have rule-making authority. However, sanctuary staff generally give the council’s recommendations and guidance considerable weight.

      Missing managers

      Kevin Wadlow: 305-440-3206

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    • Sep 30, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Online Survey on Florida Anchoring and Mooring Available, October 1-9, 2016

      This is one very important survey that cruisers definitely will want to take. We can only keep our fingers crossed that the right questions will be asked and that our answers, observations and suggestions will be heeded, unlike past conversations with the FWC.

      fwc

      FWC seeks public input on anchoring and mooring rules, pilot program
      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking feedback from cruising boaters, local boaters and other residents in evaluating the state’s Anchoring and Mooring Pilot Program and related ordinances.

      The FWC has posted a brief online survey to accept this feedback. It should take approximately five to 10 minutes to complete and will be available to the public Oct. 1-9. Survey

      Any input is greatly appreciated in evaluating and improving boating in Florida.

      The Florida Legislature established the Anchoring and Mooring Pilot Program in 2009. The intent was to explore potential options for regulating the anchoring or mooring of non-live-aboard vessels outside the marked boundaries of public mooring fields throughout the state.

      After public input, the FWC selected the cities of St. Augustine, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Stuart (in conjunction with Martin County) and the cities of Key West and Marathon (in conjunction with Monroe County) as five sites for the pilot program. They were granted temporary authority to regulate mooring in their jurisdictional waters through local ordinances.

      All ordinances enacted under authority of the pilot program will expire on July 1, 2017, and will be inoperative and unenforceable thereafter, unless re-enacted by the Legislature.

      Participation in the survey will help determine the effectiveness of the program, developed ordinances, and a variety of concepts related to specific restrictions on anchoring of vessels which may be considered in the future.

      To access the survey and for more information, go to MyFWC.com/Boating.

      And this from Glen Moore on the AGLCA Forum:

      The Florida anchoring issue will be with us every year. This survey is part of the planning for next year’s legislative session and more legislation limiting anchoring. More communities will be vying to be included in the anchoring bans that were granted in two south Florida counties last year.

      As a life-long resident of Florida, I have watched the law-making process over many decades. It is ironic that a state legislature with the majority of its members being elected on the platform of less government continue to issue laws regulating all forms of personal choice, including where one might anchor. Sorry if this sounds political, but this is a political issue and I have attempted to craft words in a benign manner.

      If any of you are Floridians, and have decided to provide input through this survey, please take your time in studying each question (and there are many, particularly if you have anchored in a pilot project area since 2011) before answering. As an example, some of the questions refer to the appropriate distance to be anchored from residences or marine structures such as boat ramps. While you might have a great opinion of how far you believe is appropriate, any answer of a distance could result in laws regulating how far you must anchor. Any distance required could be difficult to follow given how large your swing circle could be. You could anchor at the appropriate distance, the wind direction change resulting in your boat swinging into an illegal spot. In many areas, laws regulating how far one can anchor from a residence will create overlapping illegal areas that essentially bans anchoring.

      Last year, I wrote my State Senator questioning the proposed, and eventually passed law for south Florida. He responded that the anchoring law was needed for safety – that people water skied in the area and boats at anchor are a safety issue. I responded that they law did not prohibit anchoring in the day time, when there were people water skiing, only at night when people did not water ski – so the proposed law had no impact on the safety of skiers. He did not respond and voted for the anchoring prohibition.

      We have some tough battles ahead. Our fight in Florida is not just for reasonable anchoring laws in Florida. Legislatures tend to copy laws from other states. As anchoring laws in Florida get legislated, other states will soon follow – Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina . . .

      My recommendation on the survey is to use the comment box at the end of the survey to build your case that no additional anchoring laws/restrictions are needed in Florida.

      Be aware that waterfront homeowners will also be responding to the survey.

      Glen Moore
      Last Dance, DeFever Passagemaker 40
      Flagler Beach, FL

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Michael Koverman -  September 30, 2016 - 3:59 pm

        I think the pilot program is dead! Miami Beach did not conform, Martin County/Stuart doesn’t enforce.

        Reply to Michael
    • Sep 12, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Seeking Fellow Boater in Marathon. FL

      If you know or have seen Wayne Shosie, please contact SSECN or Laurel Long at the info below.

      Hello, I’m trying to contact Wayne Shosie on MV “Blue Max”. I’ve been told he is in the anchorage at Boot Key Harbor City Marina Marathon, FL.
      Thanks for any assistance you can give.
      Contact info: Laurel Long
      904-472-5546
      laurel382@gmail.com

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Capt rick -  August 7, 2019 - 1:05 pm

        If you are looking for jarhead Wayne he is on the hard at Marathon ship yard my #7154989535

        Reply to Capt
    • Aug 5, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Boats Are Killing Florida Manatees in Record Numbers

      This report from Care2.com focuses on the large number of manatees killed in Florida by boats this year leading to what could be the worst year on record. Slow down in Manatee Zones and keep a sharp watch ahead.

      Boats Are Killing Manatees in Record Numbers
      manatees
      Manatee advocates are raising concerns about the number of these gentle giants who have been killed in Florida this year. They hope that increased vigilance and other measures will help keep this from being the worst year on record.

      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has already counted 71 manatees killed by boats as of July 22. The numbers are already higher than they were for the same period in 2009, which was the deadliest year on record with a total of 97 deaths.

      The growing death toll has caused manatee advocates to worry that the unfortunate record will be broken this year, but there are differing opinions as to why.

      CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL REPORT

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    • Jul 30, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.0928,-80.44889999

      Comments on Sunset Cove Anchorage, Buttonwood Sound, near Inside Route Statue Mile 1143


       View In Chartview

      Andree is correct about the history of this once popular anchorage, see /99799. And see /158819 for details on a new Florida law dealing with at-risk and derelict vessels. Thank you Andree for your perspective.

      I was anchored out in Sunset Cove from 2001 to 2007 we tied our dinghies off the Bayside Resort pier. A chain link fence was put up and no trespassing sign a few years later. Thanks to some people who slept under the tree, drank , litter and trash the shore. It was a disgrace and bad image for the resort and tourists so they [authorities] did what they could to prevent it. That is why there are barely any boats there anymore. The anchorage has moved to Government center a few miles up the road.
      Andree J Hardy

      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Sunset Cove

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Sunset Cove Anchorage

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    • Jul 29, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Florida’s New “At-Risk Vessel” Law

      SSECN hopes this law will never apply to you, but if your boat is frequently left unattended for any length of time, you should be aware of the new authority granted to FWC law enforcement.

      fwc
      Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission sent this bulletin at 07/29/2016 11:00 AM EDT
      For immediate release: July 29, 2016
      Photos available on the FWC’s Flickr site: https://flic.kr/s/aHsjEz2hj2

      New at-risk vessel law helps FWC officials manage Florida waterways

      A new Florida law, approved by the Legislature and Governor during the 2016 Session, will enable county and local authorities along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to more effectively manage the state’s waterways. The new law (F.S. 327.4107) allows law enforcement officers to issue non-criminal citations to owners who allow their boats to become “at risk” of becoming derelict.


      “This law allows officers to take action before a vessel crosses that line between at-risk and derelict, and hopefully prompts the owner to rectify any issues with the vessel before it reaches a state of disrepair,” said Phil Horning, FWC’s derelict vessel program administrator. “Prior to this law being enacted, officers had to wait until a vessel met the legal criteria for a derelict vessel before beginning any sort of official interaction with the owner.”

      Under the new law, a vessel is deemed to be “at-risk” if any of the following conditions is observed:
      The vessel is taking on or has taken on water without an effective means to dewater.
      Spaces on the vessel that are designed to be enclosed are incapable of being sealed off or remain open to the elements for extended periods of time.
      The vessel has broken loose or is in danger of breaking loose from its anchor.
      The vessel is left or stored aground unattended in such a state that would prevent the vessel from getting underway, is listing due to water intrusion, or is sunk or partially sunk.
      If an officer observes a vessel with one or more of these criteria, a non-criminal citation may be issued that requires the owner to correct the problem or face stronger penalties after 30 days have passed. If problems are not fixed, non-compliant vessel owners can face additional fines issued every 30 days until they are.

      Officials expect that this new law will decrease the number of vessels becoming derelict, a problem which continues to burden the state’s public waterways.

      “Our goal is to keep Florida’s waterways safe and protect their environmental stability,” said Horning. “We are committed to protecting this valuable resource for the people of Florida and its visitors.”

      Vessel owners are also reminded to sell their vessels properly.

      “Many owners don’t realize that not only is the buyer required to get the vessel retitled in their name, but the seller is also required to notify the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 30 days that they have sold their vessel,” said Horning.

      Failure to do so is a violation and may cause the prior owner of record legal troubles should the vessel become derelict at a later date. The FWC will be assisting state and local governments with derelict vessel removal grants that will be available soon. The grant funding was also approved by the Legislature and Governor during the 2016 Session. Interested applicants may contact the FWC Derelict Vessel Program office at 850-617-9540 or email DVGrant@MyFWC.com for more information.

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    • May 13, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.9569,-81.73039999

      Suggested Route from Marco Island to Islamorado, Gulf Coast to the Keys


       View In Chartview

      These good suggestions come from AGLCA member, Dave Fuller, as posted on AGLCA’s Digest.

      If this is your first trip from Marco to the Keys, I recommend coming out Capri pass and proceeding south. Going the back way is a little shorter, but MUCH shallower and requires you to pay close attention. The Cape Romano shoals are the first area you need to avoid, so look at your chart and plot your course accordingly. Depending on your speed, you should consider an overnight and Little Shark River (marked by a Green 1 on a 16 ft. pole) is a well protected anchorage. Depending on wind conditions, you may want to go further up river to use the mangroves to break the wind and waves. It is plenty deep quite a ways in so you should not have a hard time finding a suitable spot. Just be aware of small fishing boats zipping by so make sure you are well lit at night. For a general route, try to stay outside the boundaries of Everglades National Park. You will notice what looks like I-beams marking the park boundaries. Inside the park boundaries, you will have less crab traps to negotiate, but the tradeoff is that the water is much shallower. So much so that I had to shut off my depth alarm as it was constantly in alarm mode, but we never touched bottom. There is one place on the chart that you must observe. I don’t know the name of the banks on either side, but it is called the “yacht channel” and is a fairly narrow opening in the bank where you make a sort of S turn. It is clearly marked on the charts. There are a number of places to cross over from Florida Bay to the Atlantic such as Channel 5, Seven mile bridge, and others depending on where you are going. When we last did the trip, we went straight to Islamorada to visit friends so we skipped Marathon. Have a fun and safe trip.
      Dave & Nan Ellen Fuller
      WACI 3

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marco Island

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Islamorado

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    • Apr 17, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Keys Writer Seeks Your Input

      Well, we’ve been asked a lot of questions, but this is a first. All of us have opinions about food aboard a vessel, but if you have experience actually feeding a hungry, sun burned, exhausted crew, let Jill hear from you!

      I’m assigned a “cooking on a boat” story for a magazine. My deadline is April 20. Will you knowledgeable cruisers in the Florida KEYS help me, please? I’m supposed to answer these questions. Any replies will be helpful. Kindly add a name and maybe your boat name and roughly where you are located, e.g. Marathon, Islamorada, etc. So, here goes: How do you feed a hungry crew? How do you deal with sea sickness while preparing food? What kind of snacks are best (esp. in our humidity?!) Who cooks? Who washes up? Who uses a gimballed stoves? Is anyone still using a kerosene stove? Thank you so much for your help.
      Jill Zima Borski, Islamorada, 305-852-9886, jzimakeys@aol.com

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    • Apr 11, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Gov. Scott Signs Anchoring Ban

      0

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Gregory Yount -  April 18, 2016 - 7:34 pm

        Law suits are the only answer at this point.
        Who will step up?

        Reply to Gregory
      2. Gary weskrna -  April 15, 2016 - 2:38 pm

        So the boating people get the bilge again, how stupid is their thinking or should I say how deep are their pockets when it comes to money?

        Reply to Gary
    • Apr 8, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Life Jackets: Wear Them!

      fwc-banner

      April 8, 2016

      FWC PSA Availability
      unnamed (13)

      “Wear It Florida!” – Life jackets save lives

      Who: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

      Why: As boating season in Florida gets underway, boaters can choose to have fun and stay safe on Florida’s waters. And the FWC can help.

      Background: As the boating capital of the world, Florida leads the nation with nearly 1 million registered vessels across the state and is known as the prime boating spot for residents and visitors. The FWC wants everyone to enjoy boating opportunities safely. It conducts boating safety education campaigns to support this goal by encouraging boaters to wear a life jacket, 360-degree operator awareness and sober boating. FWC officers assist and educate vessel operators year-round.

      Resource: Life jacket :60 Broadcast Version: https://vimeo.com/127883864

       

       

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    • Apr 2, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 24.8128,-80.91189999

      Report from Channel Key Pass, Florida Keys Inside Route, Statute Mile 1179.5


       View In Chartview

      George is responding to a request for information on Channel Key Pass made several years ago by our friend Captain Charmaine Smith, see /58003. Channel Key Pass allows passage from Gulf to the Atlantic across Channel Key Banks north of Duck Key.

      I came through there in August 1992, 2 days after Andrew had swept through Everglade City and pounded me on Marco Island. That leg of my journey, I traveled from Marco Island headed for “someplace” in the keys. As I approached this challenging bit of navigation on the chart, I decided to lower my sails and approach it under power for greater control. Our big difference is that my 25′ Capri only had a 4 foot draft. I must admit, I was so intent upon avoiding the reef (with concern about possible unexpected current shifts), I don’t recall ever checking the depth. After I emerged and approached the Channel 5 Bridge, a coin toss decided whether to head to Key Largo or to Key West. Key West won, but I actually lived at Faro Blanco in Marathon for one year. Considering the damage a reef can do to your boat and vice versus, I would always recommend taking it slow and staying within the markers as close to the middle as possible.
      George

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Channel Key Pass

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    • Mar 7, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments

      Vessel Inspections Underway in Florida Keys Anchorages

      A big Heads Up! if you are anchored in the Keys. According to this article by Kevin Wadlow in KeyInfoNet on Operation Liveaboard 2016, 210 vessels were inspected and 115 (!!) received citations.

      Boat inspections yield dozens of citations
      BY KEVIN WADLOW
      kwadlow@keynoter.com
      March 5, 2016

      Marine officers inspected 210 boats during the recent Operation Liveaboard 2016 in the Florida Keys.

      Three agencies — the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office — checked waters with the highest density of liveaboard vessels from Key West to Key Largo. It was done over six days in recent weeks.

      CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ARTICLE AND COMMENTS

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Dave Boxmeyer -  March 18, 2016 - 11:02 am

        This whole boating mess in FL is getting totally out of hand. We just spent 3 months in Cape Coral. We had some mechanical issues and spend over $6000,00 on repairs, figure another $1000.00 for boat detailing and $700.00 in marina fees. Add to that car rental, groceries, dining and other items and it all adds up to over 410,000.00. The weather in January sucked, over 12 inches of rain when less than 2 inches is normal. It has reached the point where I have to worry about a visit from the LEO’s every time I move the boat. We have been doing this trip now for 9 years, but next year we may just skip FL. We will be more than happy staying at Jekyll Island for the winter

        Reply to Dave
      2. Has Royer -  March 11, 2016 - 2:14 pm

        Considering the actions of Florida, I will not be cruising south of St. Lucie, east or west coast at anytime in the future

        Reply to Has
    • Feb 26, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 24.6645,-81.38719999

      Report from Dolphin Marina & Lodging, Hawk Channel, east of Little Torch Key


       View In Chartview

      Dolphin Marina and Lodging is on the western shore of Newfound Harbor Channel off Hawk Channel.

      Gas was 2.80/gal as of 2/23/16. Very tight inside, but deep water in approach (6’+) and deeper inside (8-12′). No transient moorage.
      Dan

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dolphin Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dolphin Marina

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    • Feb 18, 2016by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 25.0108,-80.51999999

      Unhappy with Mangrove Marina, Florida Keys Inside Route, Key Largo, Statute Mile 1150


       View In Chartview

      Skipper Pearsall’s report is the opposite of a 2015 report, see /146935, but facilities and prices at any location can change, see /155306. Mangrove Marina is one of only a very few facilities offering transient dockage on the Florida Keys Inside Route between a point south of Jewfish Creek, and Snake Creek. To access Mangrove Marina, depart the Inside Route just northeast of the Tavernier Creek intersection, between markers #64A and #65. Note that Mangrove Marina also features a full service repair yard!

      We’ve been cruising to Mangrove Marina for many years; the rates WERE reasonable, dockmates were (and still are) very friendly, and the location is excellent.
      NOW, we find rates have gone up after we made reservations, electric is no longer included in the dock rate (they now charge $85/month for 30 amp electric), a swimming pool is only partly completed and is best for mosquito farmers, the “food truck” hasn’t been opened at all since we’ve been here, income seems to be not used at all for maintenance and improvements, parking space has been reduced, and the bathroom/showers haven’t been cleaned in the past few days.
      Adelle Pearsall

      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Mangrove Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Mangrove Marina

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Sue Ward -  February 18, 2016 - 1:59 pm

        Oh thats so disappointing. We were hoping to book in for next winter season there. Will wait and see if there are any further reports. Thank you.

        Reply to Sue

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