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    • LNM: W of St Andrews, Naval Operations, Mar 5-8, Gulf of Mexico, FL

      FL – GULF OF MEXICO – U.S. Navy Operation

      Commencing March 5, 2024 and continuing through March 7, 2024, the U.S. Navy will be conducting surface and subsurface testing operations in the Gulf of Mexico. The testing areas will be bound by the following approximate positions:
      Location 1:

      30-01-42.29N 085-40-23.39W (30°1.7048N / 085°40.3898W, 30.028414 / -85.673164),

      30-01-42.80N 085-35-54.10W (30°1.7134N / 085°35.9017W, 30.028556 / -85.598361),

      29-57-49.80N 085-40-26.40W (29°57.8300N / 085°40.4400W, 29.963833 / -85.674000) and

      29-57-49.00N 085-35-54.19W (29°57.8167N / 085°35.9032W, 29.963611 / -85.598386) .
      Location 2:

      29-57-35.10N 086-18-12.70W (29°57.5850N / 086°18.2117W, 29.959750 / -86.303528),

      29-57-35.70N 086-13-43.39W (29°57.5950N / 086°13.7231W, 29.959917 / -86.228719),

      29-53-40.69N 086-18-14.29W (29°53.6782N / 086°18.2381W, 29.894636 / -86.303969) and

      29-53-40.90N 086-13-41.89W (29°53.6816N / 086°13.6982W, 29.894694 / -86.228303) .
      The main surface craft supporting the test operation and serving as the surface vessel is the M/V PATRIOT. All U.S. Navy support craft will monitor VHF-FM Channel 16. Testing will result in restricted maneuverability. Throughout operations, mariners are requested to maintain at least a one nautical mile closest point of approach from the M/V PATRIOT.

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    • Missing Sign, Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin, FL


      Caladesi Island State Park is a Florida State Park located on Caladesi Island in the Gulf of Mexico, across St. Joseph Sound to the west of Dunedin, Florida, and north of Clearwater Beach. See Report from Caledesi Island by Claiborne Young from 2012. If you have an answer for Jon, let us hear from you. Currently the State Park has limited facilities dues to the COVID-19 pandemic.

      Can you tell me what happened to the sign for CALADESI ISLAND that was on Marker 14? WHY is it gone? Can it be replaced?
      Jon

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    • Fellow Cruiser Requests West Florida Gulf Advice and Information

      For those of you who have made this crossing, especially at night, let Kevin hear from you.

      Hi everyone, I’m hoping for tips on a night crossing from Anclote Key near Tarpon Springs to Carrabelle FL. Has anyone done this? Specifically are there any hazards to a night crossing in a slow sailboat, i.e. crab traps, fishing areas etc.? Thanks in advance, SV Grace
      Kevin Stone

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    • Excellent Report from Dunedin, FL, GICW Statute Miles 139 and 142


      Our thanks to Ron and Jan Matuska for this excellent report from their West Florida port, Dunedin FL, as posted on AGLCA’s Forum. Dunedin lies between Clearwater and Tarpon Springs.

      Welcome to Delightful Dunedin, FL
      From your Harbor Hosts: Ron & Jan Matuska
      Your best marina choices for Dunedin include Dunedin Municipal Marina (limited docking), Marker 1 Marina (limited docking due to construction ending December 2018), Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, and Caladesi Island. There are several anchorages in St. Joseph Sound across from Dunedin. Info for these may be found on Waterway Guide or Active Captain. Contact me directly for the recommended ICW track into Caladesi, track from Hurricane Pass is not recommended.

      Everything you need to know about Dunedin can be found on their web site at https://www.dunedingov.com/live-work-play

      For getting around, we have the Jolly Trolley and the Pinellas Trail. Both connect Clearwater – Dunedin – Tarpon Springs. New this year is the Clearwater – Dunedin ferry.

      Several other “new” to Dunedin items to mention; new restaurants, new shopping including Nature’s Food Patch market & deli, new breweries (see the Brewery Tour, if wine is your preference check out Sterling Wine on Main St.) Be sure to check the calendar of events for special events and music. See the web page listed above.
      Ron & Jan Matuska
      AGLCA & MTOA Harbor Hosts, Dunedin FL
      AGLCA #8079

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marker One Marina

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dunedin Municipal Marina

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

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    • LNM: Severe Shoaling, Nav Aids Changed, Anclote River Gulf Entrance Channel, north St. Joseph Sound, Tarpon Springs, FL


      This shoaling is off the southern tip of Anclote Key where two other Nav Alerts have been posted in the past. The relocation of the nav aids is good news.

      FLORIDA – TAMPA BAY TO PORT RICHEY – ANCLOTE ANCHORAGE SOUTH ENTRANCE: Severe Shoaling, Temporary Changes
      and Establishment to the Aids to Navigation.

      Due to shoaling the following Aids to Navigation have been temporarily established and changed:
      -Anclote Anchorage South Entrance Daybeacon 5 (LLNR 26085 [28°8.7176N / 082°50.4298W, 28.145294 / -82.840496]) temporarily converted into a DANGER SHOAL Daybeacon A
      -Relocated TRUB 5 to position 28-08-43.057N / 082-50-25.787W (28°8.7176N / 082°50.4298W, 28.145294 / -82.840496)
      -Temporarily established Anclote Anchorage South Entrance Buoy 5A in position 28-09-01.288N / 082-50-12.673W (28°9.0215N / 082°50.2112W, 28.150358 / -82.836854)
      -Anclote Anchorage South Entrance Daybeacon 6 (LLNR 26095 [28°9.2470N / 082°50.2253W, 28.154116 / -82.837089]) temporarily converted into a DANGER SHOAL Daybeacon B
      Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution while transiting the area. Chart 11411 LNM 33/17

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

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    • Help Requested on Western Gulf Marinas, Clearwater to Port St. Joe

      Skipper Spinucci is asking for recommendations of marinas between Clearwater and Port St. Joe. Let us hear from you.

      Some help please.
      I’m planning a trip from Venice, Fl to Orange Beach, Al in June 2016. I have a 315 BW, Conquest with a fuel range of a couple hundred miles depending on the sea’s. I am planning over nighters in Tampa and Clearwater. I need a stop halfway from Clearwater and Port St Joe. The marina must include transient dockage, Restaurants and nearby motels. Needless to say gas also. Any ideas?
      I’m trying to keep day trips under 125 miles.

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    • Report from Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River


      Each year the Cape Coral Cruise Club makes an extended cruise and, after visiting several marinas on the Gulf Coast, sends us their reports. This report is one of eight marinas they visited in April. Claiborne’s Comments: Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove.!

      Turtle Cove Marina in Tarpon Springs was our northern most stop for three nights. On our first night the town was celebrating “Night in the Islands”; a very romantic Greek food themed evening where several restaurants filled the street with long tables and strung up small overhead lights. Odyssey, one of the best Greek bands in Florida, supplied soothing, sensual, traditional Greek music. While some people danced in the streets, others formed a large circle where local ladies instructed them on traditional Greek dances. All this, while the wait staff continually delivered tasty Greek food and wine to the large crowd made this a truly memorable evening. Over the next two days members were on their own to explore the town. One night, we gathered at Hellas Restaurant and Bakery. Everyone was able to select a Greek dish to suit their desire. Several dishes of Saganaki (flaming cheese) were delivered to our tables as shouts of Opa made the meal festive.
      Turtle Cove Marina was very accommodating to our club, dock hands were prompt, helpful, and attentive. One night, with a threat of rain, the marina opened the lounge for us as Phil and Gary prepared their famous fish bites. We also used the lounge the next morning where the cruise leaders prepared a pancake breakfast. One note here: a guest on a member boat slipped on the ramp of the dock, and fell, injuring his leg. An ambulance was called, and he was transported to a local hospital for x-rays. Fortunately there was just severe bruising with nothing broken.
      The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Phil Kryger at 239-541-0236. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on Facebook.

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • Severe Shoaling in Tarpon Springs, Anclote River, West Florida, 8/6/2014


      The charming community of Tarpon Springs lies at the eastern end of the Anclote River, upstream of the northern terminus of the West Florida ICW. The turning basin is in the heart of downtown Tarpon Springs.

      FLORIDA – WEST COAST – TAMPA BAY TO PORT RICHEY – ANCLOTE RIVER: Severe Shoaling.
      There is severe shoaling in the center of the Turning Basin, Anclote River, Tarpon Springs in the vicinity of Anclote River Turning Basin Daybeacon 51 (LLNR 26360 [28°9.4112N / 082°45.5384W, 28.156853 / -82.758974]) and Anclote River Turning Basin Daybeacon 53 (LLNR 26365 [28°9.4129N / 082°45.4908W, 28.156882 / -82.758180]). Mariners are advised to use extreme caution while transiting the area. Chart 11411 LNM: 31/14

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Tarpon Springs

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    • Shoaling Reported South of Anclote Key, near West Florida ICW Statute Mile 150, May 9, 2014


      From Skipper Bakos’ report and with the several shoalings reported on the chart, it would seem prudent to avoid the southern tip of Anclote Key when entering or exiting the ICW between Anclote Key and Three Rooker Bar. If you have navigated this channel recently, let us hear from you.
      See also /?p=145021 for update on shoaling.

      There is also shoaling due south of Anclote Key charted as 8 to 9 feet depth. I ran hard on the shoal last night for 6 hours. It is about halfway between marker #5 on the south side of Anclote Key and the partially submerged wreck shown on the chart. There is less than 5′ at low tide there. Further south, closer to the wreck there was good depth.
      Bob Bakos

      I have seen several boats aground at the southern tip of Anclote Key over the last couple of years. The odd thing is that I haven’t run aground there yet as I seem to have a natural affinity for sand bars. On a good day, the shoaling is easy to see by the color; watch carefully for signs of breakers. Capt Bakos’ advice is good, always give Anclote a wide berth and watch your depth carefully.
      Cambren Davis

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Anclote Key

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    • Good Words for Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove.

      Turtle Cove was great last winter. We draw 5.5′ and went in and out at mid+ with no issues.
      Win Benbow

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • Good News from Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. The review below comes to us from the AGLCA forum.

      We’re at Turtle Cove Marina right now. We came to Tarpon Springs to have some work done on our 1976 Pearson 365 Ketch (sailboat). We’ve been here a few weeks and really like Turtle Cove Marina. Like others have said, the staff is friendly and very knowledgable, the location is very convenient to Olde Tarpon Springs (the sponge dock, the restaurants, etc) and is only a few blocks from both the Jolly Trolley (runs on weekends) and the Pinellas County Transit (runs every day) bus stops. The marina entrance was dredged recently and when we came in with the tide about 1 foot above Mean Low Water we never saw less than 6 feet (we draw 4’6″). The marina is a ‘work in progress’ with all phases to be completed this year. This includes a restaurant on the water (about a 5 minute walk from the transient docks) and a new Heads, Showers and Laundry Building ‘on the Island’ (it’s not really an island anymore but thats where the Transient Docks are). Oh, and rumour has it there’ll be an additional Tiki Bar there too.
      Dockage Fees:
      Right now it’s $1.50 a foot and that includes electric! Also, when you stay 5 days you get 2 more days free. When you stay that second week (and again, when you pay for 5 you get 2 free) you also get the next 2 weeks free!!!
      Yep, you pay for 10 days and end up staying for 30. (such a deal!)
      As I understand it from Ed, the owner, when the constuction is done and all the phases are completed he will probably increase the rate per foot but he said he will still have great discounts for transient cruisers.
      steve

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • More Good Words for Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm!

      We stayed at Turtle Cove 2 years ago and are looking at returning for a week in just a couple of days. Top notch marina, top notch people.
      Jim and Lisa Favors

      I agree, Turtle Cove is one of the best, and Tarpon Springs is always loads of fun. Be careful of your depth, if you draw more than 4′ then wait for the tide. Don’t miss the beaches at Anclote Key while you are up this way.
      Cambren Davis

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • Good Words for Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm!

      We have been tied up here for 2 days since our crossing from Carabelle. This is probably the friendliest Marina we have ever docked at. Check in included a tour of the town in a 8 passenger golf cart. The channel can be a challenge at low tide but easy to navigate. We may stay an extra day so we have another chance at the great Greek food.
      Tom and Melesia Goodman
      “Journey” Monk 36

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • Two Good Visits to Turtle Cove Marina, Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm! These excellent reports come from our good friends on the Great Loop Forum.

      We stayed at Turtle Cove in Tarpon Springs, just after our crossing last January. We agree with every nice thing that’s been said about that marina. I would add that there’s a nice bike path, the Pinellas trail, that you can access not particularly far from the marina, and it goes all the way to Clearwater if I remember correctly (but be REALLY careful about riding in front of a stopped car–it might suddenly decide to take off!!!!!) Also, try Hellas Greek restaurant, and order flaming “oopa” cheese! Tarpon Springs was a fun stop, and the marina handy to all it has to offer.
      Anita & Don
      “Limelight”

      Let me chime in on Turtle Cove. I found it in a cruising magazine while we were sitting in Steinhatchee. We had been to Tarpon Springs twice before by car and knew that we did not want to stay at the city dock area. There was always too much traffic on the water there so we jumped at the chance to get in a more secluded spot. You have to be careful getting back to it and should holler at a local as you move down the canal off the Anclote River to ask about which side the locals hug. Turtle Cove was a treasure. They have this unique circular island with slips all around. I don’t know if it is manmade or not. We could walk or ride our bikes about two blocks and we were at our all time favorite restaurant “Mama’s Greek Restaurant” where they let us bring our bikes inside because they were worried someone might
      bother them. Mama’s is on the street behind the main drag. We spent several days at Turtle Cove, ate three times at Mama’s and if I could revisit any marina on the Loop it would be Turtle Cove.
      Rusty Carlisle

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • Good Advice When Visiting Dunedin, FL (north of Clearwater, near Western Florida ICW Statute Mile 139)

       To experience the many charms of delightful Dunedin, FL, we would suggest giving the nod to the Dunedin Municipal Marina. The entire downtown business district is within easy walking distance. It’s a bit more of a hike from Marker 1 Marina.
      However you get there, Dunedin is well worth a visit, and having dinner at Kelly’s Bistro is worth the entire effort!!!!
      The message below was copied from our friends at the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA, http://www.greatloop.org/).

      When you arrive at either Marker 1 or the Dunedin Municipal Marina be sure to askfor your welcome packet if the dockmaster forgets. If you’re looking for peace and quiet try the Caladesi Island State Park Marina. Caladesi has one of the best beaches in all of North America, or so it’s been rated. Lots going on all around town; restaurants, shopping, farmer’s market everyFriday/Saturday.
      Dunedin is right on the Pinellas Bike Trail, midway between Tarpon Springs and St. Pete. The Trail is an easy way to get around. On the weekends trythe Jolly Trolley for transportation between Tarpon Springs and Clearwater Beach.
      Ron & Jan Matuska

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dunedin Muncipal Marina

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

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marker 1 Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marker 1 Marina

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    • Invitation from Marker One Marina, Gulf ICW, Statute Mile 142

      Marker One Marina – Click for Chartview

      Marker One Marina lies south of the Dunedin/Honeymoon Island Bridge, along the easterly banks of the Western Florida ICW.

      When making your Gulf Crossing plans, please consider staying at Marker 1 Marina! We’re only 800 yards off the ICW in Dunedin, FL (halfway between Tarpon Springs and Clearwater). We have good power, good water, well maintained docks, 24 hour security, and a well-trained staff that’s eager to please. Even better: AGLCA members receive fuel and dockage discounts! Looper transient dockage is only $1/ft/day, $5/ft/week and $11/ft/month, and includes water, power, cable TV, and WiFi. You’ll find a grocery store, pharmacy, bank, dentist, dry cleaner and several restaurants all within a half mile of the marina. And if you’re staying with us around December 7th, plan on taking part in our annual Christmas Boat Parade and join us for a Cajun Christmas Shrimp Boil!
      Thanks,
      Steve Arndt
      Marina Director
      Marker 1 Marina

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marker One Marina

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

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    • More on Great Mobile Marine Mechanic in Tarpon Springs (off Anclote River and Anclote Key)

      Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net first heard about Frank Dudley three years ago, /?p=25501, and we’re glad to know he is still in business. From minor work to major installations, Captain Dudley obviously knows his business. If you need repairs anywhere near Anclote Key and Tarpon Springs, give him a call at 727-741-0775.

      Agree with positive comments about Mr. Dudley
      We were stranded as transients in tarpon springs on our cruise to orange beach AL and needed complete repowering.
      Two new engines were installed perfectly and Frank Dudley saved our boat.
      Way too involved for this message but would be glad to elaborate at above email: mickeyc05@gmail.com
      Thanks again Frank!!!!!
      Michael Chandler MD

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    • Turtle Cove Marina (Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River)

       Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm!

      Sea Biscuit here for several nights. We draw 4.6 feet, and in our case, we can only come and go at, or near, high tide. We almost sit on the bottom in our slip, but not quite. A very nice marina, we like it, just that the water depth at low tide is probably about 3 to 3.5 feet total depth at lower tides during the approach, 5 to 6 at higher tides. Easily doable, but requires a slow and careful approach, which is necessary anyway due to busy traffic, close quarters, and some narrow channels. Enjoy, as the hospitality is tops! Perfect location and excellent security.
      Sea Biscuit, Defever 44

      Visited the first week of Feb. Nice marina w/ floating docks. Looong walk to laundry and showers. New showers planned near docks. Problem being water depth. I draw 57’³. At MLLW I had 32’³ under boat (by lead line). Probably the shallowest dock in the marina. Poor choice by dockmaster. Great location to visit sponge dock area with restaurants and shops (two blocks) and also the downtown with cathedral, upscale antique shops and historical buildings. Approach channel had 6′ spots near high tide. Timing is important for deeper draft craft.
      Has Royer

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

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

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    • TowBoatUS Tampa Bay Earns “Tower Of The Year” Award

      This just in from our good friends at TowBoat/US. Looks like the Tampa Bay franchise of this very popular service is really up to snuff!
      Notice this franchise has satellite operations on the Western Florida coastline, from Tampa Bay north through the Big Bend region!

      CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla., January 29, 2013 — An on-the-water towboat company that helps Gulf Coast boaters get home safely was singled out for its professionalism at the BoatUS Towing Services Annual Conference recently held in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Tower of the Year honors went to TowBoatUS Tampa Bay, which is owned and operated by Capt. Larry Tieman and Capt. Clayton Tieman. The company has eight locations along the Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay to Cedar Key, including St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, Hudson, Homosassa River, Crystal River and Yankeetown.

      The company also received two additional awards – the BoatUS Membership Achievement Award for selling the most BoatUS memberships in the entire fleet, and was honored with the BoatUS Dispatchers Choice Award, given by the dispatching staff at the BoatUS 24-hour call centers for providing members with fast response and utmost professionalism during the dispatch process.

      “We have grown our business to become the largest BoatUS towing service provider in the United States and we are very proud of our accomplishments,” said Capt. Larry Tieman. “With fourteen boats and sixteen captains, we handle over 2,500 requests a year for on-the-water assistance. If you’re broken down or run out of gas near shore, we’re very proud that we can get a bright red towboat with a professional captain to your location in usually an hour or less,” he added.

      “The Tieman’s operation is the standard bearer that many in our towing fleet look up to, showing others how to run a successful on-the-water towing business in one of the busiest regions of the country,” said BoatUS Vice President and Director of Towing Services Adam Wheeler. “And they do it professionally, with the great care that our members deserve, and always with a positive attitude.”

      BoatUS Towing Services offers an “unlimited” towing plan for Florida boaters for just $149 a year, which includes BoatUS membership. Without a towing plan, the national average out-of-pocket cost for a tow is about $600. For membership and towing information visit http://www.BoatUS.com/towing or call 800-888-4869.

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