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    • Hawk Channel Plagued with Crab Pots between Rodriguez Key and Marathon, FL

      In response to reports of numerous crab pots in the west side approach to Marathon (/?p=131869), Captain Lindberg’s remarks refer to 50 statute miles of the Hawk Channel between Rodriguez Key, just north of Key Largo at mile 1145, and Marathon at statute mile 1195.

      We just came back from sailing Fort Lauderdale to Boca Chica and back 12/23/13-1/3/14. The pots were so bad between Rodriguez Key and Marathon that we had to drop sails and motor. We had planned on putting out two fishing lines, however it was impossible with all the pots.
      Brenda Lindberg

      This was our experience as well during the week of January 6th, 2014.
      Be Aware and Careful !
      DeeDee Lisenby

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    • Results of 12/18/13 Meeting At Boot Key Harbor Marina Between FWC Representatives, Marathon Local Government Leaders, and the Cruising Coummunity

       It is now the morning of 12/19/13, and we have already been on the telephone with “Katrina,” Administrative Assistant for the Boot Key City Harbormaster, and have learned that a meeting did indeed take place last evening, at Boot Key Harbor City Marina with representatives of the FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Service), local Marathon, Florida governmental officials, and a host of cruisers. If you have been following this situation both here on the SSECN, and/or on the Cruisers’ Forum (see both /?p=129366 and http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f57/civil-rights-attorney-needed-marathon-fl-116693-11.html), you know that a HOST of cruisers have lodged serious complaints and questions about “heavy handed” actions on the part of FWC officers in boarding and inspecting vessels both at anchor, and on the city provided mooring balls, in Boot Key Harbor.
      The Marathon local government became integrally involved in this matter following a very substantial cruising community presence at the last city council meeting. Unfortunately, the on-line minutes of this meeting are not yet available, but we are told the city government expressed serious concern about the actions of the FWC, and it apparently became quite clear that local government was very much an ally of the entire cruising community in this matter.
      One of the prime movers in this entire affair has been the captain of the sailing vessel, “Thin Line.” Late in the day on 12/19/13, the master of this vessel posted a note on Cruisers’ Forum, which we have reprinted below! It makes for very interesting reading, and provides what is probably the BEST summary of the 12/18/12 meeting!
      Back to the timeline, the result of all this early interaction was that a meeting was arranged for the evening of 12/18/13 to bring together all interested and concerned parties. As alluded to above, this meeting was indeed held, and, thanks to our conversation with “Katrina,” we are able to provide a summary of what took place.
      We interviewed “Katrina” on the morning of 12/19/13 at some length about this important gathering, and were told that the meeting encompassed better than three hours, and provided a forum for many cruisers to voice their concerns to Captain David Dipre, lead FWC representative, who “chaired” the meeting. We were told the give and take between cruisers and the FWC “went fairly well,” and many “left with a positive note.”
      Captain Dipre suggested that all cruisers and boat owners who experience future problems with FWC officers, contact him directly at 305-289-2320. He and his fellows also brought along books of Florida boating regulations which were distributed at the meeting, and it was discussed which regs applied to the situation in Boot Key Harbor.
      And now, we will leave our reporting mode, and enter into some editorial comments. ALL CRUISERS AND LOCAL BOAT OWNERS WHO BROUGHT THIS SITUATION TO THE FORE, AND SHONE A SPOTLIGHT ON THE ACTIONS OF THE FWC, HAVE DONE A GREAT SERVICE FOR THE CRUISING COMMUNITY! With this much attention being paid, it’s a very safe bet that FWC officers operating in Boot Key Harbor will be very mindful of courtesy and their own conduct regulations for some time to come!
      It is the editorial opinion of the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net that Boot Key Harbor is once again, and will most likely remain so for some time to come, a welcoming place for both resident and visiting cruisers. And, that’s a very good thing indeed, as Boot Key Harbor is the finest and most protected natural anchorage in all of the Florida Keys.
      Be ASSURED that the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net will continue to monitor this situation closely. Let’s all hope the meeting of 12/18/13 closes this unfortunate chapter which has blemished an otherwise sterling cruising destination in the Florida Keys. Please let us know about your experiences in BKH by sending e-mail to CruiserNet@triad.twcbc.com, or following the “Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below!

      And now, PLEASE READ THESE IMPORTANT WORDS FROM THE CAPTAIN OF THE “THIN LINE:”

      Sorry I haven’t been able to respond until now, our harbor internet is being worked on so I couldn’t write last night and I had to work today.
      Last nights meeting was well attended, both by boaters, the FWC, and other interested parties. There were 2 FWC Capt’s, and 1 officer, 4 USCG, as well as the Mayor and several city council members. While the discussion was at times heated and several times seemed to derail and go off track, overall there was much good discussion. What I find interesting is the varying opinions of the way the meeting turned out. I personally think the meeting accomplished everything we set out to do. We,,

      1. Brought attention to the problem.
      2. They acknowledged our voice by having the meeting, and by those who attended.
      3. They were in PR mode and attempted to put a human face on the FWC, Capt Dupree represented them well.
      4. The FWC acknowledged there were problems with some laws and they are working on getting them resolved.
      5. Cleared up some rumors that were blown way out of proportion.
      6. We were able to establish that almost, if not all, of the questionable interactions were from 1 particular officer. (training issue)
      7. Capt Dupree stated that his officers are being instructed to show greater discretion and more respect for the boaters in Boot Key.
      8. Both Capt’s have instituted an open door policy, as well as gave out personal numbers to discuss issues as they happen instead of letting it come to a head.
      9. Agreed we need to keep this open dialogue and should have a town hall type meeting a couple times per year.

      Sure, some of the people that attended wanted a full blown apology, with FWC admitting they did something wrong and groveling, obviously that was not going to happen. They do have to maintain the integrity of the field officers (even if they were wrong) however the general impression I got was they were there to repair the relationship. The Mayor and the city showed a huge amount of support and validation for us as boaters and wanted to make sure this was resolved. Overall the people that attended were well behaved, well mannered and even though a few wanted to bring pitchforks and torches, they checked them at the door. Most importantly my kids were there from start to finish, they got to see how people can rally together and change things. It was also another example of always standing up for what is right, even if it’s not directly affecting you right now, it could have eventually and it was just plain wrong. Everyone stood together, we made our voice heard and to me, that means we won this battle.
      Thank you to everyone for your support, your phone calls and your kind words, they helped tremendously! For those of you that were going to skip Boot Key, don’t, you’ll be missing out on a strong community of amazing people I’m proud to call friends.
      *_The following is what I said at the meeting when I was asked to speak. I hope I represented the harbor well and I tried to walk a “thin line” between being an upset boater/member of this community, and being a city employee. _*

      *We are here tonight to raise questions, questions we as boaters need answers to. Hopefully tonight we will all leave here a little wiser and with far less anxiety. The FWC’s presence in the harbor starting on Thanksgiving day was overwhelming to say the least. Nightly spotlighting, and late night boarding of vessels without cause brought a sense of fear into Boot Key Harbor. This is a family community of live aboard boaters, these are our homes. I also know that FOR NOW’¦ these are not offered the same protection, but they should be offered respect. A little bit of tact on the part of the FWC officers in question and we might not be here tonight.
      Capt Dupree you said something the other day that stuck with me, it’s something I think might have prevented the entire situation in the harbor if those officers here would have followed your advice. “Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should” Just because you can board a vessel at 11pm, waking a family, scaring the children AND the parents out of sleep and into a state of disorientation, doesn’t mean you should. Using discretion and a little bit of tact, goes a long way with the public, just as the decision of your officers went a long way in creating this negative situation. Their actions have reached far beyond the mangroves of Boot Key Harbor. There are articles nationwide in magazines, internet and other media, and the city marina is fielding calls daily from all over the country about this situation. On cruisers forum alone there are over 15k views and word is spreading fast. We all await the outcome of this meeting. Many people have decided to skip Boot Key until this is resolved. This lost revenue creates a ripple effect that also reaches far and beyond the harbor. Cruisers bring money, dispensable income that infuses the economy here in Marathon. These businesses also have an interest in the outcome of this meeting.
      I understand after talking with you, several of these citations were warranted. Many times the one ticket written was the least of the many infractions the individual could have gotten. Other times the citations have been odd, if not just plain bizarre. Writing tickets for things nobody has ever heard of, again, “Just because they can”. Capt Dupree, what we want is consistent interactions and for you to pass this message to your officers in the field. We are not going to live in fear, we will not put up with heavy handed officers, and we WILL call into question at the highest levels, the necessity of actions such as nightly spotlighting and shining into my 8 year old daughters bedroom window. How many nights in a row do you have to “check my registration”? Capt Dupree we welcome the dialogue and the help in returning Boot Key Harbor to the way it was before Thanksgiving. Respect is not something that comes with a gun and a badge, fear does not earn it and it is not blindly given. When it is not given to us we question that authority, so tonight lets try and repair what has been damaged and show each other mutual respect.. Thank you. *

      What was the reason for the heavy handed and (in my view) illegal police activity?
      Captain Mike Wright

      Captain Wright wrote, `What was the reason for the heavy handed and (in my view) illegal police activity?’
      Captain Wright,
      1. What was the answer you received from FWC?
      2. What do you expect to change as a result of the meeting?
      Thanks
      Jim

      My good friend Walt Avery has retired from his career as a marine biologist working in Tampa Bay on seagrass restoration to live aboard his lovingly restores Pearson 39. He is a waterman with as good a knowledge of the rules and regulations as any one I know but he is now fighting a jack-booted FWC in Marathon’s Boot Key Harbor.
      He relates the story of a family with children rousted in the middle of the night for inspection.

      I don’t know how aware you or those in the Marine Industries Association are of what is going on but he reports that FWC is running off law abiding yachtsmen with enforcement of obscure regulations (like needing a 12-volt system on your dingy to maintain a yellow over white light over the long winter night.)
      Law abiding yachtsmen are facing criminal prosecution for bizarre laws.
      The restaurants are losing customers who don’t want to get caught taking their dingies back to their boats after dark without full lighting, not just a motoring light.
      Boot Key Harbor, which generally has a waiting list this time of year has a 20% vacancy due to FWC tactics including late night inspections and demands that out of state yachtsmen from states that don’t require registration of documented vessels must now register their boats in Florida if they stay longer than 60 days. Think of having to pay sales tax on your yacht’s value if you want to come and spend money in Florida.
      I want to spread the word. Our marinas could be next.
      Merry Christmas,
      Kevin

      Actions speak louder than words. Hopefully, the meeting will help the situation. But don’t get your hopes up. This has been going on for decades in Boot Key Harbor. I was there in 1988, when they did a joint operation with the Florida Marine Patrol, Monroe County Sheriffs, Customs and immigration, and the FWC.They sealed the harbor on both ends,and using a bullhorn, ordered everyone to return to their boats and standby for boarding. They then spent the entire day boarding boats and writing frivolous citations. I believe Capt Dipre is the same guy who was some kind of spokesman for the FWC at the time. He went on the local radio station and basically said they planned to keep on doing it. Boot key Harbor has been the subject of harassment for decades, with occasional periods of relative calm, followed by more harassment.
      Also see the Sept 2007 issue of southwinds, and scroll down to the `letters’, where this then `officer’ Dipre is mentioned, regarding another raid. It appears he is probably behind most of the harassment, but seems to be softening his image a bit at the recent meeting.
      http://www.southwindssailing.com/pdfs-issues/southwindsseptember2007.pdf
      This Dipre guy has been defending his cops for the past 25 years, with any relief being short lived!
      Scott Kuhnen

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marathon, Florida’s Boot Key Harbor

      Click Here To View the Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Boot Key Harbor City Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boot Key Harbor City Marina

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    • Potential Problems With Florida Fish and Wildlife Service Patrols (FWC) in Marathon, Florida’s Boot Key Harbor

       On 12/9/13, it was brought to the attention of the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net that there was/is a lengthy thread of messages on the Cruisers Forum (http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f57/civil-rights-attorney-needed-marathon-fl-116693-11.html) about what has been described as “heavy handed tactics” on the part of the FWC (formerly the Florida Marine Patrol) regarding boats anchored, and on the city provided mooring balls, in Marathon, Florida’s Boot Key Harbor. This lengthy chain of messages was begun by this article, posted by a local cruiser and employee of the Marathon City Marina, located in Boot Key Harbor:

      Every night for the past two weeks the boaters in Boot Key Harbor have been harassed by the FWC. I understand they need to do their job, however if the following is “doing their job” then I don’t even recognize the place I grew up.
      Shining lights in boat windows at 10:30PM, boarding boats when people are fast asleep. This is my home and my daughters bed is right by the window, what right do they have to shine lights in my house waking us up when not investigating anything, it’s become a nightly occurrence.
      Tonight they tried to tell a group of us on land to leave the area at the city marina. We stood fast and refused to leave since we were in no way interfering with their duties and we paid to be there. Dictating our actions on land when not on the water seems a slight overstep. The boaters of Boot Key Harbor are being harassed by the FWC, they have written unwarranted tickets to people just arriving and boats are leaving because of it. They even forced someone to FL register their boat, the person actually got a refund from the tax collectors because the FWC was absolutely wrong. A boat that was here 19 days received a ticket for not being FL registered, 19 days in the state and they wrote a ticket. The best one I’ve heard was them tell a person they were giving them a warning for having wet life jackets, apparently wet life jackets don’t float
      I understand Marathon is a training ground for the FWC, but if this is the training they are receiving it scares me to think what’s coming. The boaters in Marathon are sick of it and ready to take a stand, we need an attorney to stop the midnight searches, blinding spotlights and floating checkpoints that harass law abiding boaters, we are not the enemy. If anyone can suggest someone in the local area, it would be very much appreciated.
      S/V Thin Red Line

      Unfortunately, after this original, very thoughtful message was published, there followed a long string of submissions about America becoming a police state of some sort. That is certainly not the editorial view of the SSECN, and most of these postings added nothing to a substantive discussion about problems with the FWC in Boot Key Harbor.
      Then, more recently, the “Thin Red Line” recorded the following note:

      First of all I have no problem with the USCG and their authority, this strictly has to do with the FWC in Marathon please try to stay on topic.
      I am sorry I haven’t had a whole lot of time to respond but I have been actively organizing several things including a presence at the Marathon city council meeting this Thursday at 5:30pm. We have contacted the mayor, Keynoter newspaper as well as other media outlets. The harassment has been of ALL boats in Boot Key, both anchored and moored. The city marina is aware but has no pull, the local sheriff also has his hands tied and can do nothing to call them off. The harbormaster attempted to arrange a meeting with a FWC representative and was denied.
      We are encouraging everyone to record any and all interactions with FWC via smartphone, camera etc. People are not enjoying this wonderful community, afraid to simply dinghy to shore, even legally. They are writing “warning” tickets to people for things that do not exist, things they couldn’t actually cite or write an actual ticket for. They hover around the dinghy dock and point to people that aren’t even operating a vessel and shout “come here”. The roaming of the harbor past 11pm while randomly spotlighting vessels, shining their lights in ports and boarding boats without owners is where I draw the line. My 8 year old daughters bed is right at our port window, what right do they have to wake me, or my family for no reason?
      The other night we had a potluck and they hovered around stopping any and all dinghies they could. Once as they were leaving the canal at WELL over idle speed (idle speed in all manmade canals is posted right there) we told them to slow down and they did only to tell us “Hey guys, catch ya later” while laughing and resuming their harassment.
      A few nights ago I called FWC dispatch to report a manatee in distress entangled in crab traps, I was told they were busy and the dispatcher did not even take all of my information. They did call back the next afternoon to find out more, however they were there later that night to harass boaters. I thought they were the Florida Fish & Wildlife? Yet they have no concern when I call for that exact thing? They were too busy writing a ticket for someone having “wet lifejackets” Yep that’s right wet life jackets.. Did you know according to FWC if your lifejackets are wet they won’t float..
      We need help, we need to show them we know the limit of their power and will not accept abuse. I am in a unique position because I am a city employee, however I am also a resident here in Boot Key, but first and foremost I’m a boater and this is my neighborhood too.
      S/V Thin Line

      Originally, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net did not know the results of the Marathon City Council meeting referred to above. However, after including a reference to this entire situation in our “SSECN Alert” of 12/13/13, Captains David O’Neil and Sue Kennedy remedied that situation, and the meeting results are MOST ENCOURAGING. In fact, it is now known that local government in Marathon is very much on the side of the cruising community.
      Before sharing this encouraging news, we need to bring two other very important messages to light, which originally appeared before the local meeting in Marathon:

      This is the response from the FWC. If more of us contact them it may have an effect!!!
      http://myfwc.com/contact/fwc-staff/report-misconduct/
      Dear Mr. and Mrs. Deranek:
      The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Office of Inspector General (OIG) received your email concerning FWC officers in Marathon, i.e. harassing boaters in Boot Key Harbor. We will look into the allegations and inform you of the outcome.
      Sincerely,
      Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
      Office of Inspector General
      620 S. Meridian Street
      Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
      (850)488-6068 (office)
      (850)488-6414 (FAX)

      And, also posted on 12/10/13, there is this tantalizing message!

      The fwc has agreed to a meeting at the marina on the evening of the 18th. We will all be there. Should be an interesting night. I believe that a great deal of the problem is new young officers. They wrote one guy a warning for not having an anchor light on his dingy that was tied to his anchored boat with a six foot line. (His sailboat did have an anchor light) It really has reached the point of supidity. We are paid up till the 2nd, thinking of leaing then and spend the rest of the season in Islamarada.
      Ready2GO

      As alluded to above, after our “Alert” of 12/13/13, within a few hours, we heard from Captain David O’Neil who provided a link to a later “Thin Line” message giving the results of the Marathon City Council meeting, while Captain Sue Kennedy sent us the entire text. The note below proves there can still be GOOD NEWS when it comes to Florida cruising, AND that Marathon local government is as concerned about this situation as those of us in the cruising community. Read on!

      The city council meeting went better than anyone could have imagined. The city manager brought the issue to the attention of everyone before I even had a chance to speak, the mayor and the city council are extremely troubled by the actions of the FWC. I spoke in front of the largest attended meeting in the history of the city of Marathon, our presence was obvious and kudos to everyone that rallied together. The mayor and the city council will be attending our meeting with FWC here at city marina on Dec 18th at 6pm, along with the city manager.
      The FWC Sgt that is representing the FWC at the meeting used to be an officer here in Marathon and still lives here. When he was here the other day we discussed several of the issues at hand and both sides of the story were presented to each other. While I agreed most of the tickets were valid, he also stated that it wasn’t the right way to go about things. “just because officers can do something, doesn’t mean they should” We discussed the fact that while many of the tickets written were law, several of them were ones nobody would ever write. For instance there is a law that states your dinghy, if not tied up beside your boat needs to have it’s own anchorlight. However who writes that ticket? A new officer trying to make an impression that’s who .
      The Sgt will be helping us understand what they are looking for, discussing the legality of their boardings and what they can and can’t do, as well as acting as a point of contact if we have any further problems. On that note, we have not seen and FWC boat in the harbor in 4 to 5 days, maybe someone received a memo? Boot Key is worth stopping, it’s a wonderful place full of families and a strong sense of community. My twochildren are both surrounded by otherkids and right now the harbor has well over 15 kids. The problem appears to be on the mend and things seem to be on their way back to normal.
      Thank you CF and all those that are supporting our cause. Fair winds..
      Thin Red Line

      Clearly, the meeting between local cruisers, Marathon government officials, and the FWC on 12/18/13 will be the key element in hopefully solving this situation once and for all. We will report the results of that conference just as soon as possible.
      In the meantime, THE SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET CONTINUES TO URGE ALL CRUISERS WHO HAVE HAD DIRECT EXPERIENCE, GOOD, BAD OR INDIFFERENT, WITH THE FWC IN BOOT KEY HARBOR TO LET US HEAR FROM YOU. And, please do NOT send us submissions about how the USA has become a “police state.” This is not useful input, and will not be published on the SSECN.
      HOWEVER, to be repetitive, we DO need to hear from every possible cruiser who has first hand experience with the FWC in Boot Key Harbor. PLEASE follow the “Click Here to Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below, or send us e-mail at CruisersNet@triad.twcbc.com. Your fellow cruisers heading for the Florida Keys can’t wait to hear from you!

      And, below are some additional messages from the cruising community:

      Time to contact the chamber of commerce and let them know you will not be spending any money there.
      Ted

      I would love to hear all the facts from both sides on this issue. We were planning on visiting for a winter, but’¦..
      I hope the situation is not without repair. It would be nice to know all the facts and circumstances. I have been to Boot Key and the Keys many times without problem.
      Here is the harbor web cam http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/marina-webcam/
      Sonny Reeves

      Here is a link to the OP’s (Thin Line) update on the city council meeting and it’s results regarding the current situation in Boot Key Harbor.
      http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f57/civil-rights-attorney-needed-marathon-fl-116693-13.html#post1413678
      David ONeill

      Claiborne,
      There are several different issues here, widely misunderstood, and jumbled together. That is not helpful to reasoned thought and discussion. It amazes me how little cruisers know about this topic and how willing many seem to be to give up their rights and their privacy ‘“ and mine ‘“ so easily.
      First, the legal authority of the USCG comes directly from the United States Congress. There is an excellent article on USCG boarding authority, published in the USCG Summer, 2009, issues of `Proceedings’ Magazine, page 29, here: http://uscgproceedings.epubxp.com/i/85792. Those that argue the extra-Constitutionality of USCG boardings would benefit from knowing that the same congress (1790) that gave us the 4th Amendment gave the predecessors of today’s Coast Guard the authority to board all vessels in US waters. That congress, I infer, UNDERSTOOD the meaning of the Constitution that they, themselves, had written. Note that other FEDERAL AGENCIES appear to have that same boarding authority, including the Navy and CBP. Now I grant you, in 1790, there weren’t many live-aboard long range cruisers. And probably none with innocent motives. Nevertheless, that USCG operates with full Congressional authority, and full governmental immunity, for better or for worse.
      Second, what is really at issue in Marathon is the LEGAL authority of state, municipal and `other,’ miscellaneous agencies; the USCG has no role in that discussion. I don’t know if boardings by these state and lesser agencies has been litigated anywhere, but assuming the stories about what’s going on in Marathon are true and correct, I’d guess that FWC is far in excess of US Constitutional authority. Some `federal’ authorities ‘“ USCG, CBP ‘“ may be exempt from the need to demonstrate probable cause, but state, county and local authorities most probably are not. It’s even possible that these agents are operating within their state’s adopted statutory authority, but if that’s so, the adopting state legislature would be unconstitutionally exceeding their authority. This is the same issue cruisers face in the Lower Hudson Valley with 30 +/- local police agencies all doing boardings. And we all remember the armed boarding done by the Volusia County, Florida, sheriff’s department. That got swept under the rug, but it was certainly excessive under the guise of a safety or MSD inspection, and it happened because these agencies operate beyond their authority in the first place.
      From our position as cruisers, the only way this can be stopped is for someone to litigate it through the courts, as Dave Dumas did in the Marco Island anchoring debacle. Until a judge issues a restraining order, jurisdictions and rogue officers can operate any way they wish. That appears to be what FWC is doing in Marathon, or at least, allowing a rogue officer to do. Until a judge issues a restraining order, the only tool we have as cruisers is public opinion and economic withdrawal.
      One last thing. Let me emphasize, I am NOT lobbying for people being allowed to pump overboard or for ignoring unsafe operation. But, I also do not approve of the excessive and inappropriate use of police power by states, counties, municipalities and agencies. There is NEVER a reason for `boating safety inspections’ to take place after dark, and certainly not when people might reasonably be asleep aboard!
      Thank you.
      Jim Healy

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    • New Name, New Owners and a New Attitude at Dockside Tropical Cafe’ (formerly Dockside Bar & Grill and Dockside Lounge), Boot Key Harbor, Marathon

       Big changes are taking place at what used to be Sombrero Marina Dockside in Boot Key Harbor. This facility resides near the western end of BKH, just west of marker #5A. This long popular establishment has, heretofore, consisted a very well patronized, semi-open air bar, and a marina, which consists of wet slips and dinghy docks set around the “L” shaped curve in the harbor west of #5A.
      The bar/restaurant part of the operation has now been split apart, and been renamed Dockside Tropical Cafe’ (formerly Dockside Bar & Grill and Dockside Lounge) It will open in two week (mid-November, 2013). Under new owners, Eric Stone (singer/songwriter) and Kim Hess-Stone (creator Yoga Onboard), we get the feeling that Tropical Cafe may very well become “the” spot for cruisers to gather in Marathon and Boot Key Harbor.
      Here is Dockside Tropical Cafe’s new contact and location information:

      Dockside Tropical Cafe’ (formerly Dockside Bar & Grill and Dockside Lounge)
      35 Sombrero Blvd
      Marathon Fl 33050
      305-743-0000
      http://www.DocksideTropicalcafe.com
      http://www.facebook.com/docksidetrop
      http://www.twitter.com/docksidetrop

      Sounds like a GOOD time will be had by all. See you there!

      Wow we have been waiting for this!!! Will be down mid December on our trawler with a gang of Canadian friends on their boats too. Good luck to,the new owners as it has always been popular.
      M/V JENNY

      Sounds like a great upgrade. Wonder if the head/shower facilities have been upgraded too.
      Has Royer s/v Skye

      Speaking for both Eric and myself, we are like two kids waiting for Christmas to come! The place is going to ROCK!
      Concerning facilities’¦. we will be upgrading the restrooms as soon as possible, and there will be a new accessible restroom near the laundry.
      See ya in the Keys!
      Kim Hess-Stone

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

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dockside Tropical Cafe’ and Sombrero Marina

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    • Report on Boot Key Bridge, Statute Mile 1195, Marathon, FL

      Boot Key Bridge - Click for Chartview

      Before its removal, Boot Key Bridge, at Statute Mile 1195, spanned the western entrance to Boot Key Harbor, east of unlighted daybeacon #14.

      The bridge is still there, but the drawbridge part has been removed. Still is a small opening where the span used to be which must be navigated. There also is a hanging powerline which limits boats with masts higher than 62 feet in height. the rest of the bridge is still there.
      Kyllbob

      Click Here To View the n Florida Keys Cruisers’ Net Bridge Directory Listing For Boot Key Bridge

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boot Key Bridge

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    • Update on Marathon Diver Recommended, Marathon, FL

      Boot Key Harbor

      Captain Ward does not have contact information for Bobby the Viking, but she says that everyone in Marathon knows Bobby, because of his dinghy decorated as a Viking ship that he sails around the waters of Boot Key Harbor in Marathon. Captain Ward promises a phone number when she and crew return home.

      We used Bobby the Viking last winter to dive and scrub the bottom of our trawler and he did a great job. I have not got his phone number at the moment but if you call on the net he will get straight back to you.
      Sue Ward

      October 22, 2013 [numbers confirmed]
      I have now found Viking Bobby’s cell number from last year. It’s 303-887-7712. I also found a cell number for the Key Hopper Taxi service in Marathon which is 305-393-0146. Hope this is of some help.
      Sue Ward

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    • Report from Marathon Marina and Boat Yard, Boot Key, Marathon, FL

      Marathon Marina and Boatyard - Click for Chartview

      Marathon Marina and Boat Yard lines the northern banks of the western Boot Key Harbor approach channel, west of the now permanently open Boot Key bascule bridge.

      We stayed here a week-rate $613 with tax et all for a 40 ft cat. The staff was very friendly and fuel prices excellant. The residents are extremely friendly and the internet works well both at the dock and the captains lounge for non-wifi connection. Pump outs are tueday, wednesday, and thursday. The resteraunt is also excellent go for happy hour and appetizers(inexpensive). Would like to stay a month at another time(warning they book as far as a year in advance for a month dockage). Not as centrally located as the city marina, but with bikes, you can get anywhere.Publix(3 miles) and cabs are $5 for a trip on the island.
      John Pholeric

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marathon Marina and Boatyard

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marathon Marina and Boatyard

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    • Report from Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL,

      Boot Key Harbor - Click for Chartview

      Boot Key Harbor on the southside of Marathon, near statute mile 1195, is accessible from Hawk Channel and from the Inside Route via Moser Channel.

      The next day, we returned via the Florida Bay side from our overnight in Boot Key Harbor. Staying on the Magenta line on the ICW was without incident. The only tough part was to keep watch and steer around the numerous lobster/crab traps inundating the ICW route.
      Victor

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Boot Key Harbor

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    • Diver Service Recommended in Marathon, Florida

      I’ve often said, but it bears repeating, recommendations of this ilk from fellow cruisers are invaluable!

      Call Mike the diver, I have been using him here in Marathon for years. 305-360-2012.
      Gerry DuBois

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    • Florida Keys “No Anchorage Buffer Zones” Identified

      As part of the discussion of new Florida Keys Anchorage regulations (see /?p=96458), we noted:

      “3. In Marathon and Keys West, “no anchorage buffer zones” have been established around the city mooring fields.”

      This factoid prompted the following, well considered question from Captain Peter TenHaagen:

      Curious about the status of Sister Creek south of Boot Key Harbor as a legal anchorage spot?
      Peter TenHaagen

      That got us to thinking that we really should research the location and size of all the “no anchorage buffer zones” established by the new Florida Keys anchorage regulations. So, after some digging, below we have reproduced the wording from the actual ordinance:

      So, to answer Captain TenHaagen’s question directly, it looks as if the waters of Sister Creek, are NOT included in the “No Anchor Buffer Zones,” as these are more than fifty feet from the Boot Key Harbor mooring fields.

      And, finally, here is a very hard to read map, which, if you can see them, shows where the official mooring fields are located in Boot Key Harbor. This map does NOT show the “no anchorage buffer zones,” but clearly the waters of Sister Creek are more than 50 feet from the fields.
      Notice, HOWEVER, the map does show that Sister Creek IS PART OF THE MANAGED ANCHORAGE AREA, so, conceivably, the creek’s waters could be further regulated in the future!

      Not an expert on the area, but my recollection of Sister Creek is one of VERY limited swing room.
      Bill Dixon

      We anchor in Sister Creek Regularly to let the Boy Scouts on our Eco Adventure trips with Florida Seabase Kayak the amazing loop trail through Whiskey Creek. For a temporary anchorage it is fine, however you must be careful not to block the channel, there is a lot of boat traffic. There is also a strong tidal current.
      Captain Harold Ochstein

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    • VERY IMPORTANT – New Florida Keys Anchoring Regulations Approved

      On Wednesday, September 5, 2012 the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the Monroe County anchorage regulations associated with the Florida Pilot Mooring Field Program. While the final version must still be approved by the Monroe County Board of Commissioners, that final nod would seem to be a mere formality. We conclude that, after all the many public forums, voluminous comments published here on the Cruisers’ Net and on other nautical forums, and a lot of GOOD work by our very special Florida Keys correspondent (and founder of BARR – Boaters’ Action Rights and Responsibilities), Captain Charmaine Smith Ladd, we have a new set of Florida Keys anchorage regulations which will almost certainly be in effect by the winter 2012 – 2013 cruising season! HOWEVER, as you will see, this is not nearly as onerous as it initially sounds!

      Click Here To Learn MUCH MORE About the New Florida Keys Anchorage Regulations

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    • Good Words for Burdine’s Waterfront Marina, Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, FL

      Burdine’s Waterfront Marina overlooks the Boot Key westerly approach channel’s northerly banks, just a quick hop east from Pancho’s Fuel Dock.

      Burdine’s Marina in Marathon is nice, friendly people, and a great Tiki Bar/Restaurant.
      The reef just outside Marathon has mooring balls and is great snorkeling.
      Ken & Pat Goewey

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

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Burdine’s Waterfront Marina

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    • Marathon Dining Recommendations

      Below, Captain Brian, in a message copied from the Cruisers’ Forum gives some good advice on where to satisfy a healthy appetite in Marathon, Florida. Only wish he could have recalled some of the name, but, hey, we cruisers take advice wherever we can get it!

      Marathon. Well, most people grab a ball and go from there. That is what I would suggest. THere is a great beer and burger joint as you come in on the port side (I cannot remember the name) but it is the first 2 story restaurant when you enter after Marathon Marina. They sell gas too. On the canal right before that is a really good sea food restaurant if you take that first canal and it is at the corner. Also, at Marathon Marina (first marina on your left) they have a awesome happy hour and as they look west, good place to watch the sun set over the water.
      Brian

      The gas place is Burdines Marina. Top of that building is Chiki Tiki Bar and Grill. Had a nice taco salad there few days ago. We walked there after being at West Marine by going down 15th St. off A1A. Was a little scary due to neighborhood. Asked couple of people at restaurant if it was a crime neighborhood and they said you should be o.k. during the day but don’t walk it at night. Best to come by boat or dinghy.
      Mary Dixon

      Two story restaurant is Burdines.
      Lazy Days at Marathon Marna.
      Make sure to check out Hurricane, across from Home Depot (east end).
      Deborah Streeter

      `Salty’s’ Restaurant near Marathon Marina. `Castaways’ Rest. near Panchos & Burdines.
      Bruce Franz

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

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    • Sombrero Marina Dockside (Marathon – Boot Key Harbor)

      My impression of Sombrero Marina Dockside has always been that a good time is had by all. More than a few glasses of my personal favorite, Mount Gay Rum, have been hoisted here from time to time!

      Currently at Sombrero. I like it, sort of a 50s flavor. Slips are big for a 2665 Regal but well set up. First marina I have been to with no tie down cleats. Lots of poles to tie to. Dockside Restaurant is good. Lots of locals. Menu somewhat limited, no steaks for example. Drinks good and beer cold. Frequent live entertainment. PUMP-OUTs on Thursdays. I think you could talk Roy into other days if needed. He will get you POUT if you are gone sight seeing. Showers, laundry are 50’s but you have everything you need and is clean. Restrooms are shared with Dockside and you get a key for after hours. Publix is walking distance and most everything else, West Marine, stores could be walked or biked or a $5 cab ride.
      M&M Rhett

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Marina Directory Listing For Sombrero Marina Dockside

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

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    • GOOD NEWS – Marathon, Fl Abandons Plans to Prohibit Anchoring Outside of Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field

      Click This Chartlet to Open a Chart View Page Centered on Boot Key Harbor

      Regular visitors to the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net will remember that about four weeks ago, we published an article authored by our very special Florida Keys correspondent, Captain Charmaine Smith Ladd, which warned of possible new anchoring restrictions in Boot Key Harbor (BKH) outside the mooring field. The reaction from the cruising community was swift and vocal, and the Marathon City Council seems to have heeded that outcry. As Captain Charmine reports anew below, it looks as if anchoring on most of BKH will not be impeded.
      On an even broader scale, Charmaine also provides a link to Monroe County’s (all of the Florida Keys) plan on how they will implement their participation in the Florida Pilot Mooring Field Program. This is MUST reading for any who cherish the idea of anchoring anywhere in the Florida Keys, and, trust me, there are literally hundreds and hundreds of idyllic anchorages in this region. So, follow the link below, and let us know what you think!

      April 10th 2012
      Florida Pilot Program UPDATE: Monroe County Proposed PP Ordinance
      by Charmaine Smith Ladd
      The most recent draft of proposed ordinances for Monroe County (including the municipalities of Marathon and Key West) are now online for your perusal and comment. Please read thoroughly and let your concerns be heard. There will be a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) on April 18th where the final draft of proposed ordinances will be on the table for approval to go forward through the protocol of the FWC administered Pilot Program.
      All boaters and cruisers will be happy to know that anchoring in the most protected Harbor in all of the Florida Keys, Boot Key Harbor, will remain available.
      Please download the proposed ordinances from the following link: http://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/agendacenter

      With the city charging $22 plus tax for 1 days dinghy dockage, NO one in their right mind is going to anchor there! It is so sad Marathon insists on a exorbadant dinghy dockage when other Florida comunities provide FREE dinghy dockage. Miami Beach is building a free dinghy dock, Ft Myers Beach has a free dinghy dock, Cape Coral has free dinghy dockage. LaBelle has free dockage. Marathon has to get with it or loose out!
      Harv

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    • GOOD NEWS – Utility Lines Crossing Boot Key Harbor Primary Entrance Repaired

      Click This Chartlet to Open a Chart View Page Centered on the Entrance to Boot Key Harbor

      We are very pleased to report that as of this morning, 3/27/12, the once sagging utility lines crossing the primary entrance to Boot Key Harbor have been repaired, and returned to their normal vertical clearance of 65 feet. Our sincere thanks to Captain Peter F. TenHaagen for this report, and for the dramatic photo attached to this message. To see more of Captain Peter’s utility line repair photos, click the “Photo Gallery” icon/link below!
      The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net would also like to express a sincere thanks to the cruising community for their help and cooperation in getting the word out about this formerly dangerous situation over the past several days. Working together, there is little the combined forces of the SSECN and the Cruising Community cannot achieve!

      Just wanted to let you know they finished making the wires the correct height again today (ribbon hanging down is their measuring device!) at the Knights Key Channel entrance to Boot Key Harbor and sailboats are now coming and going freely.
      Peter

      Cruising News:
      THE WIRE IS FIXED to 65′ Clear M.H.W.
      Edwin Spomer

      The sagging lines appeared to be fixed about 3 PM Monday afternoon. We were heading back from lunch and passed under the bridge/cables while the barge with two men up in the crane finished. There is a new yellow/red circle attached to the middle of the cable, I guess to show it’s been fixed? Anyway, as we watched, the barge lowered the two men in the crane back to deck, so hopefully all is well again in Marathon.
      Cheers!
      Jan,
      sv Winterlude
      http://www.commutercruiser.com

      I witnessed the incident [that originally caused the utility lines to sag]. It was Sunday, March 18. I was in my dinghy heading toward the bridge. A big catamaran with a 75 foot rig was trying to enter the harbor. Suddenly she reared back like a motorcycle doing a wheelie. If she had been going any faster, she would have flipped herself onto her back.
      Unfortunately I didn’t get the vessel name, but I did talk to the people on board. They were 6 teenagers there for the sailing regatta. They tied off at the old abandoned marina next to Burdines.
      Dick Mills

      Hello All,
      Has anyone noticed if they put a tide reading scale [ 24-25-26 ] on the EAST , mooring field side of the bridge ? Am I missing it. I dont think I have seen one on that side.
      THANKS
      TOM

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    • Depths on Sister Creek (Marathon, Alternate Passage from Hawk Channel to Boot Key Harbor)

      As part of the recent string of messages concerning the sagging utility lines over the primary entrance to Boot Key Harbor (see /?p=84015), a side discussion has come about concerning depths on Sister Creek. The “primary” entrance to Boot Key Harbor (“BKH”) is a more or less straight shot from Moser Channel. This is the passage over which the sagging utility lines cross.
      Sister Creek is an alternate entrance to BKH, which runs, more or less, north from Hawk Channel. In the “sagging utility lines posting,” both yours truly and our very special Florida Keys correspondent, Captain Charmaine Smith Ladd, cautioned that boats drawing more than 4 feet should not attempt to use Sister Creek to access BKH. This admonition resulted in some dissenting points of view:

      Click Chartlet Above to Open a Chart View Page Centered on the Entrance to Boot Key Harbor

      Good to hear the alert but Sister’s Creek is deeper than 4′. I have come in and out of Boot Key via Sister’s Creek and have never experienced less than 6′. Take your own chances ‘“ I’m just saying.
      Always FOR SAIL too

      I disagree about Sister Creek ‘“ large sportfishers and sailing craft enter the harbor from Sister Creek daily. There is a spot at the entrance that might preclude 6’ from entering at MLW, but half tide and rising there is no apparent problem. I am anchored on Sister Creek with two other craft as I write this.
      Peter TenHaagen

      So, I asked Captain Charmine to comment further on the soundings to be expected in Sister Creek. Here is her reply:

      Regarding SISTER CREEK. Sister Creek at mean low tide is 4’1’³. That’s FOUR FEET ONE INCH. From that point, as usual, you have to do the math with the tides as far as one’s draft is concerned. Obviously if you have a two foot tide you’ll be fine if you draw less than six feet. With that said, whatever someone has experienced in their vessel is highly subjective and there are dangerously hard groundings that occur in Sister Creek because of this. Each Captain has to make his or her decision based on their particular situation.
      This is why I am extremely cautious with suggesting using Sister Creek to others. Some don’t watch tides as closely as others. Therefore, I merely report its mean low tide depth. Those who traverse Sister Creek with 6′ drafts have done their homework’¦and that is all that is necessary in order to decide to use it or not. Just know that it is not quite a no-brainer unless you have a shallower draft vessel.
      Hugs!
      Charmaine

      Remember if you enter Sister Creek from Hawk Channel, it’s a normal red-right-returning as you enter Boot Key Harbor.But the channel colors `reverse’ where Sister Creek meets Boot Key Harbor. That’s because the markers near that entrance are really a continuation of the markers from the main entrance channel at Seven Mile Bridge, and thus are `reverse-colors’ from the Sister Creek entrance. That can cause confusion and potential grounding if the skipper is on the `wrong’ side of the markers as they enter Boot Key Harbor where the water at that intersection is shallow.
      Joe Curley

      I agree with Captain Charmaine. Our boat draws 4 feet and our depth sounder is accurate to within 2 inches. We departed Sister Creek in February of 2012 at dead low tide and our depth reading was 4 feet. Sister Creek itself is deep enough. The shallow area is east of the entrance to Sister Creek between the Red and Green marks.
      James Angel

      We recently entered Boot Key via Sister’screek in our sailboat. It was at mid tide. Our dept sounder is set for actual water depth and is accurate. We saw readings or 4.1 on the sounder. The draft on our boat is 5 foot but we never even felt a bump let alone run hard aground. I wonder if there is a heavy grass growth that may be bouncing the echoe sound up from the tall grass. This occurred just off the beach in the channel. The rest of the way was all over 5 foot or better
      Capt. Mike

      I just returned in my dinghy from the marked channel entering Sister Creek from Hawk Channel ‘“ I found at dead low tide some 4.5′ spots between markers 2 and 3/4, nothing under 5′ after that and nothing under 7′ once past the marked channel. I don’t know the exact tide range but it is well over 2’ ‘“ I would say 3-4′ depending on winds and other conditions that affect the tide. I did this for friends in a 5′ draft sailboat planning to meet me here over the weekend.
      Peter TenHaagen

      Boat using sister creek this morning reported at least 6′ at near high tide. Local knowledge is needed as there are shallow rocks reported to be inside one of the red markers. Local boat US will charge $400 to escort you thru.
      Ted

      For the past 12 years I have lived on Sombrero Blvd. For the first 5ive years I had a Shannon 43 drawing when cruising 5′ 2’³ that I took in and out of Sisters Creek. I have read the warnings and looked at the charts but have yet to run aground. My neighbor had a Gulfstar 50 that he took in and out numerous times. He did bump once or twice but never ran aground. I took my boat in and out regardless of the tide level although never at a low low tide.
      Joe Hamrick

      Re Sisters Creek: I lived in Marathon for 11 years, and always used the Sisters channel coming and going on my 50′ Gulfstar with 5.5′ draft. I recall a light bumping once or twice during very low tides, but most locals consider the channel good for 6′ in normal high tides.
      The old charts do say 4’ at MLT, but local knowledge is pretty well established on this one.
      Ed Loke

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    • GREAT Fuel Price Strategy in the Florida Keys

      Recently, my good friend and host at last fall’s MTOA Rendezvous in Chesapeake Bay, Captain Ken Chumley, arranged for a Florida fuel wholesaler to bring an entire truckload of diesel fuel to Marathon’s Boot Key Harbor. Here, he and a number of other MTOA members, took on 4,200 gallons of diesel, at a really good price! Another fellow cruiser chimed in, and said they had made arrangements with the same company for a truckload delivery to Duck Key, to the tune of about 900 gallons.
      Of course, for anyone to take advantage of this service, they will have to put together a group of fuel thirsty vessels, at a Florida Keys marina where a tanker truck can back close enough to the wet slips so that a hose can be easily snaked to the waiting boats.
      If you can overcome these hurtles, give Urbieta Oil at 305-884-0008 a call, and stand by to save a significant chunk of change!

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    • Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field Advice (Marathon)

      Isn’t it encouraging to find a city owned and operated mooring field that ENCOURAGES cruisers to anchor just outside of the field until a mooring become available. Other municipalities in Florida would be well advised to take note!

      At Boot Key the dockmaster generally will have you anchor out until a mooring becomes available. Depending on weather and the number of folks staging to go to the Bahamas, your wait can be hours to a few days. Just remember to look at the tide charts (especially now, coming off of full moon) and gage where you anchor with
      your draft.
      PS Russell
      M/V Ocean Breeze

      We are in Marathon and while the mooring field is busy there are openings. A number of boats just headed out for the Bahamas and that makes for available openings. With your mooring you get pumped out once a week and you can pull into the Marathon City Marina and get water. You can also check with the City Marina for dockage.
      Good Luck
      Marty and Jerry Richardson
      onboard M/V Monarch

      The boats in Boot Key Harbor come and go all the time. They might be full today and have a half dozen moorings open by weeks end if a good weather window opens up. There is usually someplace to anchor in Boot Key Harbor. Depending on your boats draft, you can anchor in Newfound Harbor on the way to Key West, and depending on the weather, if the southerlies are not blowing too bad, you can anchor just outside Boot Key Harbor. There is also the anchorage in Key West. Marina availability will be a different story this time of year.
      Chuck Baier

      Cruising News:
      City of Marathon is in the process of passing Resolution 2012-21 which will restrict all anchoring in Boot Key Harbor to one small area. This Resolution can be viewed on City of Marathon website.
      Patrick Carter

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Marina Directory Listing For the Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Boot Key Harbor Mooring Field

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    • A Quick Word About Sombrero Marina Dockside (Marathon – Boot Key Harbor)

      We kind of had to guess whether Captain Russell’s note below refers to Sombrero Marina Dockside or Sombrero Resort and Lighthouse Marina, both of which are located in Marathon on Boot Key Harbor. We guessed the former facility, but if anyone knows otherwise, based on the description below, PLEASE click the “Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below, and share your information.

      Keep trying Sombrero Beach, too. Folks are in and out of there frequently. They always say they are full for the season…you just have to get used to Roy (the marina manager, if he’s still there). But we really liked it there and once on the good side of Roy, life smoothed out.
      PS Russell
      M/V Ocean Breeze

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Florida Keys Marina Directory Listing For Sombrero Marina Dockside

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

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