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    • May 7, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.3327,-82.54639999

      Wake Issues in Mooring Field at Marina Jacks, Sarasota, FL, GICW Statute Mile 73


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      Marina Operations/Marina Jacks abuts the east-northeastern shores, to the northeast of red unlighted daybeacon #8A in Sarasota Bay, in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Florida. Our thanks to Skipper Cohen for this report.

      Stayed at Mooring Field 2 nights. Great location and beautiful spot. There are some issues that need to be addressed. There are only a couple of no wake signs installed be Marina Jack which manages the Field owned by the City. Fishing and pleasure boats cruise through the Field regularly; there is no policing or security although there is a Fish and Wildlife boat at the marina. One of the tour boats operating out of the marina’“Le Barge’“takes a sanctioned shortcut through the field. Folks at marina seem to feel there is not much they can do. It’s a shame!
      Hedda Cohen

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Marina Operations/Marina Jacks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marina Operations/Marina Jacks

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    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 27.9763,-82.82549999

      Report from Clearwater Municipal Marina, GICW Statute Mile 136


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      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. Clearwater Municipal Marina flanks the well-marked Clearwater Beach Channel just southwest of the high-rise Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge

      Our first stop on the return trip was a single night at Clearwater Beach Marina. The dock master was alone, and overwhelmed with our arrival, so it was up to the members to help get all our boats secured up in the slips. A short walk had several members taking in the fabulous Clearwater beach along with its several bars and restaurants.

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

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

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Carl Schultz -  May 11, 2015 - 6:16 pm

        I would like to echo the statement made earlier about the dockmaster being overwhelmed. 10 boats from our yacht club arrived on Friday, March 13th (we should have known) with a stiff wind out of the east. The dockmaster, who was alone, did not answer his radio, or the telephone. I had to telephone the cityside marina, only to be told the dockmaster might not respond. Between the wind and the current, we were lucky to back in, but many of the other larger boats were nearly overwhelmed. Even the giant excursion boat was blown into shallow water and grounded. If not for other boaters in the marina, and our fellow yachters who’d previously gotten in, it could have been a real disaster. When asked why he didn’t request additional help on a busy weekend he said he did, but was denied. That still doesn’t explain why he wouldn’t answer the radio. To me, this is an example of a bad city government employee, and a city government that just doesn’t care. And because they are civil servants instead of privately employed, it will never improve. I wouldn’t return.

        Reply to Carl
    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.835,-82.26069999

      A Visit to Gasparilla Marina, GICW Statute Mile 34


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      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. In spite of its name, Gasparilla Marina is not located on Gasparilla Island, but rather it is to be found along the northeastern banks of the GICW, just south of the Gasparilla Island Causeway/Bridge. The entrance to Gasparilla Marina cuts east off the Western Florida ICW. This facility features a well sheltered harbor and offers superior services.

      The final stop before heading back to Cape Coral was Gasparilla Marina. A final happy hour under a huge canopy by the docks gave the cruising members the opportunity to express their thanks to the cruise leaders for arranging a great itinerary, and or course assuring that the winds were calm and the weather outstanding.
      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 Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Gasparilla Marina

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

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    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 27.3327,-82.54639999

      Visit to Marina Jacks, Sarasota, FL, Statute Mile 73


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      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. Everyone refers to the large, downtown Sarasota, Florida “city marina” as “Marina Jacks” but, in reality, that is the name of the on-site restaurant, and the maritime part of the operation is officially known as “Marina Operations.”

      The next to last stop on our trip was the always popular Marina Jacks in downtown Sarasota. After breakfast by the cruise leaders, several members hopped on the shuttle to visit the Ringling Circus and Art Museum and the John Ringling Mansion. Others opted for the great shops and restaurants in downtown Sarasota.
      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 Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Marina Operations/Marina Jacks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marina Operations/Marina Jacks

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Joe Vizzini -  May 9, 2015 - 11:12 am

        we were part of the Cape Coral Cruise Club recent visit to Marina Jacks and this was our third visit this year by boat. we are always impressed with this operation, the staff, the facilities, the restaurants. one of our favorite stops along with Florida west coat

        Reply to Joe
    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 28.1593,-82.76289999

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


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      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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    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 27.37,-82.61839999

      Report from Longboat Key Club Moorings, GICW Statute Mile 77.5, Sarasota, FL


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      Step off deck at Longboat Key Club Moorings and come ashore to our Four-Diamond beachfront resort offering a private white-sand beach, 45 holes of challenging golf, the Island House Spa, six on-site restaurants, the award-winning Tennis Gardens and so much more.

      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. Longboat Key Club Moorings guards the western shores of Sarasota Bay, north of the city of Sarasota, and south of Longboat Pass. With the advent of mooring fields in Florida, you might mistake this marina as just another set of mooring balls. But, as described in the report below, this is one “gorgeous” marina. And, of course, these good people are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!!

      The next morning the boats departed Palm Island traveling north to the gorgeous Longboat Key Club Marina and Resort. Due to an unannounced bridge closing on the GICW just north of the Venice Inlet three boats went out the Venice Inlet and proceeded north to New Pass Inlet returning to the GICW and into Longboat Key. Most of the boats were in slips along a sea wall less than fifty feet from the beautiful pool and a fabulous restaurant.

      The next morning, breakfast was provided by the cruise leaders before members headed out on their own; some taking the Longboat shuttle bus to St. Armand’s Circle for shopping and the many fine bars and restaurants. Others opted to borrow the resort bicycles, ride around the resort, and/or pedal the 3-1/2 mile trip to St. Armand’s. As a side note, on the way to Longboat Key, one member drifted out of the channel, and ran aground in soft sand. Assistance from a tow boat got the boat back in the channel with no apparent damage. Such is boating in the sometimes skinny waters of Southwest Florida! Everyone knows how important it is to stay in the channel, but it is so easy to drift out. Two days later the cruise leaders drifted not more than fifteen feet off channel and ran aground. Again, a tow boat was called, and the boat suffered no apparent damage.

      Displaying DSC_0037.JPG

      Docktails poolside at Longboat Marina & Resort

      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 Longboat Key Club Moorings

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Longboat Key Club Moorings

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Blake Whitney -  May 8, 2015 - 9:06 pm

        Step off the boat and step on to the finest marina resort experience In FL.

        Reply to Blake
    • May 6, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.8709,-82.31119999

      Report from Palm Island Marina, GICW, Statute Mile 38


       View In Chartview

      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. Palm Island Marina is located near the southern foot of Lemon Bay, northwest of unlighted daybeacon #7.

      The two week 2015 long cruise began April 13 with fourteen member boats departing Cape Coral, bound for Palm Island Marina in Cape Haze, Florida. After all boats were secured in the slips, several club members enjoyed the marina’s pool, and on-site restaurant. Other members opted for the complimentary water taxi to the marina’s Gulf front beach. Four other members ventured off in a dinghy looking for the channel to Rum Bay on the beach. A minor incident occurred when the captain, wanting to get the dinghy up on plane, encountered the large wake from a passing boat that caused a wall of water to wash over the bow. The dinghy captain’s quick action, plus an efficient bilge pump, prevented almost certain swamping of the small boat. The only casualties were two wet women, and a cell phone that ended up under several inches of water on the bottom of the boat. On the second day of our stay at Palm Island, the cruise leaders prepared breakfast, and later, with help from other cruisers, grilled sumptuous herb-crusted beef tenderloin for dinner.

      Displaying DSC_0029.JPG

      Long Cruise group picture ‘“ Palm Island Marina

      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 Palm Island Marina

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

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    • No Comments 26.6478,-81.86979999

      Good Words for Fort Myers Yacht Basin and Staff, Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway Statute Mile 135


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      We are proud that this fine SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR is providing their excellent service and expertise to Okeechobee and West Florida transients! Fort Myers Yacht Basin lies along the southeasterly banks of the Caloosahatchee River, between the 3rd and 4th bridges from west to east.

      Very helpful, and friendly staff. Well protected marina right within walking distance of many taverns, restaurants and shops. Showers are air conditioned and clean.
      Manuel Farinas

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Ft Myers Yacht Basin

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ft Myers Yacht Basin

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    • Apr 23, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.8424,-81.43379999

      Russell Pass Northern Anchorage, between Indian Key Pass and Everglades City, West Florida


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      Russell Pass splits off to the north from Indian Key Pass at marker #7 and the northern anchorage lies upstream, 200 yards southwest of the charted split in the stream.

      I have used this anchorage a few times in wind from the north @ 35 mph as stated ( as good as it gets ). 37 foot sailing vessel 5ft draft. S/V TIME
      R J Schwandner

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Russell Pass Northern Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Russell Pass Northern Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Florida Marina Directory Listing For The Russell Pass Middle Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Russell Pass Southern Anchorage

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    • Apr 23, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.9608,-81.71239999

      More Good Words for Marco Island Marina, West Florida, south of Naples


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      Marco Island Marina will be found along the Marco ‘“ Naples waterway’s southerly banks, immediately west of the high-rise fixed Marco Island bridge.

      Elmer the dockmaster is very helpful. Showers are air conditioned and clean. Floating docks are very nice, the entire set-up is first class.
      Upon registering you are handed a courtesy card to the Marco Island Yacht Club adjacent to this property. Impressive building, but a word of caution, if you are planning on eating dinner at the restaurant, we recommend you call ahead for reservations. We arrived on a Wednesday (dinner special is lobster tails) and assumed we could get a table. Well, had to eat at the boat.
      Manual Farinas

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marco Island Marina

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

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    • Apr 23, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 3 Comments

      Update on Florida’s Anchoring Restrictions Bill

      This Florida senate bill restricting anchoring has been much in the news for several weeks, see /?p=147527 and /?p=147397. This update is from Kim Russo on AGLCA’s Forum

      Below is an update provided this morning from the team working on defeating the proposed anchoring restrictions in Florida. Thanks to all the Loopers and our Sponsors who have taken steps to help with this issue. We’ve made
      a lot of progress!

      1. There are 8 days left in the regular session.

      2. On the House side, there is currently no remaining bill that includes the anchoring ban. The bill that most logically could have been a vehicle for such a provision passed 119-0 this morning on the House floor (i.e. vote by the full House). This was after the anchoring ban amendment was defeated in its last committee hearing. Therefore, when it was brought up for a vote of the full House (on the floor) it contained no anchoring ban provisions. Unlike last year, no anchoring ban amendment was filed on the floor although our team was poised, ready to respond rapidly ‘¦ as were the House members who have become champions for the boating and cruising
      community. That bill is now going to the Senate for a vote.

      3. On the Senate side, the bill containing the anchoring ban made it through the 2nd of its 3 required committees 2 weeks ago. With 8 days left, the bill is not currently scheduled for a 3rd committee hearing.
      Currently, that 3rdcommittee is not scheduled to meet again, although that could change.

      4. We are working continuously to monitor and track every bill and every potential amendment to a bill that could create the anchoring ban. We are in constant communication with a full host of House and Senate members who are with us.

      5. At this stage, broad messaging from the boating community to legislators is not an effective strategy. If, however, any threatening bill or amendment emerges, we will again engage promptly with messaging that is tailored, timed and targeted.

      6. The boating and cruising community has done a great job throughout this session. It has strengthened its voice and its effectiveness. It has broadened and diversified its sources of messaging. For example, recently
      there was effective proactive messaging from the veterans boating community and the Boy Scouts/Sea Scouts boating community that was influential in conjunction with the balance of the boating and cruising community family.

      7. We still have 8 days. Readiness is the key.

      Kim Russo
      Director
      America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association

      Comments from Cruisers (3)

      1. Dave L -  June 17, 2017 - 5:13 am

        Anchoring is an act of navigation, as such it is protected by federal law.

        Reply to Dave
      2. Captain Robert S. Viola -  April 25, 2015 - 10:28 am

        Florida’s anchoring ban defies reason, lacks economic sense, and embodies a mis-application of logic. Therefore; it is no doubt a dream-child of misguided, but powerful, environmental-zealots. These Draconian regulations limit legitimate and reasonable pursuits. The boating public’s rightful interests are being overrun by a political movement that treats the earth, and what is at the bottom of the sea with a kind of irrational, religious-sanctity. Boaters do not dis-respect the sea-floor – people have some right to its use – and it is certainly a reasonable assumption that the vast majority of boaters don’t have the destruction of our habitat at heart. Most want a piece of our shared-earth to ensure our safety, security, and tranquility – and there surely is enough law-enforcement in place to oversee the security of anchorages. The problem of course is; the zealots will not give an inch, and scream louder, and devote life-long energy to denying traditional, and time-honored practices to a generation of boaters who respect the sea as much as they do! Boating advocates must relentlessly argue that our goals are every bit more-sensible than those who oppose reasonable land and sea pursuits.
        Captain R.S. Viola

        Reply to Captain
      3. Jerry Villines -  April 24, 2015 - 6:19 pm

        So, if I understand your rambling message. The Florida House has chosen not to pass any legislation with changed anchoring restrictions. But that may or may not change. The Senate has completed 2 of 3 required steps to vote on restrictions to anchoring. They have not scheduled action to complete the 3rd step but may do that.

        So if the Senate completed 2 steps to increasing anchoring restrictions what are the issues/roadblacks/incentives to address the 3rd step?? Why take 2 steps and not address the 3rd step?? And, should the Senate pass the 3rd step and vote to introduce legislation to restrict anchoring rights does the House need to deal with the proposed legislation before it can go into the books?

        This is all very strange and secretive.

        Reply to Jerry
    • Apr 21, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.4574,-81.9569999

      Good Words for Moss Marine, Fort Myers Beach


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      Moss Marine lies on the west side of Matanzas Pass across the channel from Marker #17. Skipper Farinas makes the Captains’ Lounge sound great!

      Very helpful staff. There is an air-conditioned boater’s lounge available to transients as well as permanent slip holders. The lounge has an extensive exchange library, and a television set. The air-conditioned showers are great. There are two washing machines and two dryers that were the hottest we encountered on our trip from Clearwater to Ft. Myers Beach. Both the showers and washer and dryers are all within the boaters lounge, so you can enjoy the lounge while waiting for your clothes to wash and dry.
      Manuel Farinas

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Moss Marine

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

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    • Apr 12, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Model Letter re SB 1548 by Jim Healy

      Here is a well-written, insightful letter to Florida legislators that should serve as a model for those of you who plan to write in opposition to SB 1548, see /?p=147754. Thank you Captain Healy.

      Chairman Hon. Alan Hays
      Vice Chairman Hon. Oscar Braynon
      Senator Hon. Thad Altman
      Senator Hon. Charles Dean
      Senator Hon. Tom Lee
      Senator Hon. Gwen Margolis
      Senator Hon. Wilton Simpson

      Dear Chairman Hays and members of the Senate Committee on General Government Operations:

      I am writing in reference to SB1548, titled `An Act Related to Vessel Safety.’ I am a legal resident of Green Cove Springs, Clay County, and an active boater. I have previously written to Sen. Rob Bradley requesting that he decline to support Senate Bill 1548 in its present form. While I do not object to the core safety-related provisions of SB1548, I do object to the anchoring setback provisions contained in the bill. The setback provisions reduce the availability of safe anchoring locations all across Florida, thereby acting against the goal of promoting safety in navigation on state waters. Furthermore, the setback provisions represent revocation of lawful pubic access rights to public trust lands. These lands are held by the state in trust for use by the public, not for the aesthetic preferences or personal use of adjoining waterfront landowners or for the promotion of waterfront business interests.

      Although limitations on anchoring may favor certain business interests, the origin of the setback provisions in the bill appears to be isolated disputes between waterfront landowners and occupants of anchored vessels. Some of these disputes have been highly publicized, but do not justify a sweeping statewide law which would restrict the rights and freedoms of hundreds of thousands of boaters throughout the maritime waters of coastal Florida. These disputes are not based on safety concerns. They can and should be resolved on a case-by-case basis through noise and nuisance proceedings in the judicial branch of municipal, county and state government.

      House Bill 7123 deals with derelict vessels without changing current Florida-wide anchoring rights. When we first moved to Florida in 2004, there was a confusing and inconsistent patchwork of local, city and county laws that restricted or disallowed anchoring in Florida’s intracoastal public trust waters. Compliance with that patchwork of local ordinances was impossible. Florida Statute 327.60 ended that inconsistency in anchoring policies and local manipulation of navigation rights and rules. At this time, HB7123 creates an `at risk’ category of boats and gives local governments new tools to manage these situations. Because local governments sometimes seek to promulgate anchoring restrictions as a means of managing problems with “at risk” and derelict vessels, I strongly believe that HB7123 is an excellent step to deter vessels from becoming derelict in the first place.

      I ask that SB1548 be aligned with HB7123. I also ask that as the opportunity presents itself in the future, that the committee act to maintain the statewide consistency of anchoring rules the legislature previously established in FS 327.60, and act to prohibit local or regional exceptions to this state wide policy.
      Thank you for your consideration.
      James B. Healy
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Daytona Beach, FL
      http://gilwellbear.wordpress.com
      Monk 36 Hull #132

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    • Apr 1, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.8279,-82.82849999

      Excellent Report from Redington Shores Anchorage, GICW Statute Mile 125.5


       View In Chartview

      Redington Shores Anchorage is found on the charted cove south of unlighted daybeacon #1 off the northwestern tip of Boca Ciega Bay. Our thanks to Laura for this thorough description of this Gulf Waterway anchorage.

      We stayed at this anchorage for 2 nights week of March 23rd and it was SUPER nice. We were guided in by the instructions in Claiborne’s Cruising Guide and he was spot on. It is very shallow in the middle of this anchorage, so hugging the Southern shoreline it was plenty deep. There are two restaurants nearby, Seabreeze and Wahoo’s – we ate at Seabreeze one night and the food was good. There is Happy Hour all day every day $2 drafts and they have some inexpensive bar food items ($4.99 grouper cheeks, and some other tasty items as well) There is a public park with a dock to get off and walk across the street to the beach. There is a 7-Eleven within walking distance for ice ($2.99 a bag) and whatnot. There’s a trolley that runs the whole length of the beach as well, if you really want to go exploring, it’s very reasonable. The water was deepest just off the fishing boat fleet, we had no problems. There is a bank of high rise condos to the South but they didn’t bother us, and most people were nice. We even had one guy track us down at the bar as he admired our boat out there, and we met some nice folks. We will definitely be back to this anchorage.
      Laura

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Redington Shores Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Redington Shores Anchorage

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    • Mar 29, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 27.4708,-82.69059999

      Good Report from Seafood Shack Marina, GICW Statute Mile 87


       View In Chartview

      Claiborne’s Comments: The Seafood Shack Marina and Restaurant guard the eastern flanks of the Western Florida ICW, only a few miles south of the Waterway’s entrance into Tampa Bay, hard by the Cortez Bridge. The marina part of this operation has always seemed a bit “casual” to me over the years, but our dining experience here has always been good.

      Just spent two nights at the Seafood Shack and can confirm the comments above from 2012. Darryl the dock master was very helpful and friendly, and the docks were still old and beat up, but both the marina and restaurant are under new management and renovations are underway. There were some new finger piers and replacement of the main docks and electric service were both ongoing while were there. The shore heads are also slated for a much needed facelift. Pretty good food at the restaurant, and several other good choices within walking distance. When renovations are complete, this will be a good choice.
      Jonathan Gorham

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Seafoof Shack Marina

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

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Bruce Franz -  April 7, 2015 - 6:40 pm

        I just spent a week at Seafood Shack! Had a great time, Staff was helpful, fun, supportive. Put it on your “places to visit”. Rent a car and enjoy the whole area!
        Upgrades are happening every week!
        Bruce Franz
        Dickerson 41

        Reply to Bruce
      2. Laura -  April 1, 2015 - 10:39 am

        Good to know! Thanks for the update. We passed by that way over Xmas and thought about stopping, but didn’t. Will definitely put that on our “places to visit” list.

        Reply to Laura
    • Mar 23, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7934,-82.78799999

      Report from Madeira Beach – Johns Pass Anchorage, near GICW Statute Mile 121


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      Madeira Beach – Johns Pass Anchorage will be discovered on the large, charted offshoot striking west from flashing daybeacon #7 on the Johns Pass approach channel. Johns Pass intersects the Gulf Waterway at Mile 121.

      We anchored here last night March 22 2015 & had a quiet night. This morning a storm rolled in, squall line with winds gusting to 30 & our holding was good. We anchored at the intersection of the canal with the little white bridge, and depths were around 5′-6’2, the closer you go west towards marina, we found to be shallower, 4’5 depending on tide. Nice quiet anchorage, did a dingy ride into 7-11 for ice, trash and a $3 bottle of dressing. 6 oz!! Paying for convenience I know’¦.
      Laura

      Displaying 20150323_180648__1427815731_128_159_255_229.jpg

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Madeira Beach Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Madeira Beach Anchorage

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    • Mar 23, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      History Essay on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway

      Here is an interesting and readable essay on the history of the Gulf ICW from the Texas State Historical Association.

      texas

       

       

      GULF INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY.
      The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway is a coastal canal from Brownsville, Texas, to the Okeechobee waterway at Fort Myers, Florida. The Texas portion of the canal system extends 426 miles, from Sabine Pass to the mouth of the Brownsville Ship Channel at Port Isabel. The grand concept of a canal system that would eventually connect Boston harbor with Brownsville harbor was introduced by Albert Gallatin, United States secretary of the treasury, in a report on Public Roads and Canals submitted to the United States Senate in 1808. By 1819 Secretary of War John C. Calhoun had published his Report on Roads and Canals, which posits an urgent need for an improved internal transportation system including waterways.

      Click Here to read the essay by Art Leatherwood.

      Art Leatherwood, “GULF INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY,” Handbook of Texas Online (http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/rrg04), accessed March 23, 2015. Uploaded on June 15, 2010. Published by the Texas State Historical Association.

       

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    • Feb 24, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7313,-82.7069999

      New Marker on the Sunken Vessel in Gulfport Mooring Field, Boca Ciega Bay, near GICW Statute Mile 115


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      gulfport-bannerSkipper Burnham has been a tremendous help in helping boaters avoid this sunken trawler in the Gulfport mooring field, see /?p=145996, /?p=146123 and /?p=146113. And again, he has shown true seamanship by attaching a new marker to the wreck. Well Done David! Gulfport is one of the newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS!

      Yesterday, we attached a yellow DANGER marker to the sunken wreck in Boca Ciega Bay to more clearly mark the hazard. The yellow marker has my name and cell phone number on it in case it goes adrift as the wreck breaks up.

      There is obvious damage clearly visible on the upper part of the wreck where it has been struck by boaters.
      David Burnham

      marker

      new yellow marker over the wreck

      marker2

      the original marker anchored to the south of the wreck

      Attached are two photos showing the new yellow marker over the wreck and a separate view of the original marker anchored to the south of the wreck.

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Gulfport Anchorage/Mooring Field

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Gulfport Anchorage/Mooring Field

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    • Feb 18, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Photo of the Week – Manatee River

      cloudburst

      Taken on Manatee River near mouth of river into Tampa Bay – Winston Fowler

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Winston Fowler -  February 24, 2015 - 6:28 pm

        “Sky Marlin”……….. looks like a huge Marlin leaping from the sea.

        Reply to Winston
    • Feb 5, 2015by:   Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 27.7404,-82.69619999

      Praise for Gulfport Municipal Marina, Boca Ciega Bay, near GICW Statute Mile 115


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      These good words for Gulfport Municipal Marina were found on the AGLCA Forum. A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Gulfport Municipal Marina has recently undergone renovations and also has a nearby mooring field. The marina and harbor are found on the northern shores of Boca Ciega Bay and are easily accessible from the Western Florida ICW, just north of Tampa Bay.

      We left our boat for a month around Thanksgiving at Gulfport Municipal Marina. We also spent several days there on either side of our trip home. We had a great time in the town and were well taken care of at the marina. We walked into town a couple of times. There is also a free taxi service, the Swoop Taxi. You just tip them. This is a quirky little town with a lovely independent spirit.
      Martha and George Alexander
      Aunt Aggie

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

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

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Gulfport Anchorage/Mooring Field

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Gulfport Anchorage/Mooring Field

      Comments from Cruisers (2)

      1. Mike Liles -  February 8, 2015 - 11:32 am

        We have stayed in Gulfport MM several times. The staff are always helpful and pleasant. It is a bit of a walk to Gulfport but if you have a car, parking is next to your boat in most cases. The last time we stayed (2012) a planned expansion was being considered for the shower area. The best part is Boca Ciaga Bay just outside the marina and a great place to anchor and dinghy in to see the art community, visit the shops or have a great mean [sic].
        Gulfport is my favorite stop around Tampa Bay. There is also a nature park next to the marina and a sailing Yacht Club next door. Don’t miss it.
        Mike Liles
        Gold Flag 2011-2012
        AGLCA Forum

        Reply to Mike
      2. Martha and George Alexander -  February 5, 2015 - 1:07 pm

        We left our boat for a month around Thanksgiving at Gulfport Municipal Marina. We also spent several days there on either side of our trip home. We had a great time in the town and were well taken care of at the marina. We walked into town a couple of times. There is also a free taxi service, the Swoop Taxi. You just tip them. This is a quirky little town with a lovely independent spirit.
        Martha and George Alexander
        Aunt Aggie

        Reply to Martha

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