Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Feb 11, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.6418,-81.87629999
Cape Coral Cruise Club Visits Legacy Harbour Marina, Fort Myers, Okeechobee Waterway Statute Mile 135

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The Cape Coral Cruise Club is a group of dedicated cruisers who always provide unique reports from the marinas they visit. Legacy Harbour Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is located on the Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway, in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, Florida. Multiple dining and shopping opportunities are found within easy walking distance of this absolutely first-rate marina!
Cape Coral Cruise Club Cruises to Legacy Harbour Marina
By John Queen, Commodore, Cape Coral Cruise Club

Legacy Harbour Welcome Sign
Each month, the Cape Coral Cruise Club makes a scheduled cruise to a different marina in SW Florida and stays for several days enjoying the amenities and hospitality of the marina. We do this nine times a year along with an extended cruise each spring. We take a break during the summer months of July and August, as many members return north. This January vessel compasses pointed towards Legacy Harbour Marina in downtown Fort Myers.

Moonlighter arrives at Legacy Harbour.
Club boats headed out on Tuesday, January 26th on what was actually a nice dry day, and boats headed home on Friday, January 29th, also a nice dry day. Everything in between – fergetaboutit! It was rain, rain, and more rain. Did I mention it was wet? The Club plans its monthly cruises months ahead of time and cannot of course control Mother Nature, but did she really have to rain on our parade all that week?
Seven Cape Coral Cruise Club member boats made the journey plus 2 club members live-aboard and reside at Legacy Harbour year round (they didn’t have to go far). On Tuesday night, club members gathered at the Tiki Hut for drinks and a potluck dinner. That’s when the rain began. It didn’t stop until Friday morning.
Wednesday morning, after serving up a breakfast of scrambled eggs, sausage and Bennett’s doughnuts, a tour was planned at the Edison-Ford Estates Museum and Laboratory. Seven club members made the trip only to find that Edison-Ford had closed the estate tours and grounds due to inclement weather. We toured the museum and laboratory, but it was disappointing that that the main estate was not accessible.
Wednesday night, several members brought out their best chili recipes for a chili cook-off contest. The Tiki Hut at Legacy was lined with 7 crock pots, each vying for attention. After scouting the marina to find a person who would serve as our ‘official’ chili judge, as luck would have it, Eric, the Legacy Dock Master volunteered. At the time, we didn’t realize what a true chili aficionado Eric was.
At the stroke of 6:00 PM, Eric showed up with a clipboard and judging sheet divided into 5 or 6 categories of aroma, texture, and consistency…, from which to judge. Before judging, Eric also gave an impromptu verbal lesson on the history of chili. Eric was the perfect judge! After carefully writing notes and quickly sampling each offering, Eric rose from the steam laden crocks and declared victory: Pati Queen was declared the winner followed by 2nd place to Stephanie Carrico, and 3rd place going to Bonnie Martin.
On Thursday morning, we laid out a nice breakfast of scrambled eggs, sausage, dry cereals and juices for everyone. Of course it rained the night before, and the rain continued throughout the day.

Over 40 members enjoy dinner at Pinchers Crab Shack in Ft. Myers.
Thursday evening about 45 club members converged on Pincher’s Restaurant a few blocks west of Legacy Harbour. Since several members came to Pincher’s by car, they helped shuttle boaters stay out of the rain. It’s always nice to have non boating club members join the boaters for the group dinner. Pincher’s was quite hospitable by housing all club members in a private dining area.
On Friday morning the rain finally stopped and the boaters headed out to the Caloosahatchee returning to their home slips scattered around Cape Coral. The Club certainly thanks the staff of Legacy Harbour Marina for their hospitality, as well as Pincher’s Restaurant for accommodating us on this event. We thank Mother Nature for giving us a dry trip back home on Friday.
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. The Club website is being updated so the short video of recent Club activities and additional Club information may not be accessible. Club website, www.c-c-c-c.org
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Legacy Harbour Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Legacy Harbour Marina
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Feb 7, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 26.6478,-81.86979999
Good Words for Fort Myers Yacht Basin, Caloosahatchee River/Okeechobee Waterway Statute Mile 135

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These two reports on City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, come from our friends at AGLCA Forum. Fort Myers Yacht Basin lies along the southeasterly banks of the Caloosahatchee River, between the 3rd and 4th bridges from west to east.
We spent a lovely month at Fort Myers municipal marina last year about this time.
They were helpful, and kind. Legacy is closer to the Publix grocery. But if you need some exercise, the Publix is a 22 minute brisk walk from the city marina. We walked up to restaurants downtown and enjoyed the many festivals that abound on the area. There were car shows, parades and the like.
An added advantage was the saxophone player who serenaded us and the rest of the marina from under the highway bridge. Hope you are there when he is.
Because it is close to a city street , there are early morning runners if you are docked by the street. We have also found that docking close to the city walk invites ants to join you…depending on your thoughts, you may want to spray your dock lines with a Raid like thing.
But we loved it. Stayed a month.
Kathy Anderson
Sea Fever
Just stayed a month there, great experience. Very friendly and helpful staff, reasonable rates, and metered elec only totaled 25 bucks for the whole month.
Was not on the street side so can’t comment on that. Did hear the sax player a few times, very pleasant sounds. Close to most things you might need and a free shuttle to get you around the area. Highly recommended facility.
David and Barbara Doyl
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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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Joe Volpe - February 14, 2016 - 8:22 am

Fort Myers Yacht Basin is so popular that its had a waiting list since I arrived in December. Its location is fantastic as you are 2 blocks away from a lovely downtown walking district with many cool sidewalk cafes and restaurants, a vibrant arts and music culture. It is beautifully designed and landscaped and having a pump out port right outside the boat is a new experience for us – so convenient! Best thing is the staff, so friendly and helpful. Please go somewhere else so there is room for me next time!
Reply to Joe

David Burnham - February 14, 2016 - 6:30 am

I had always bypassed Fort Myers in the past because it was not located at a point where I would end my cruising day, I seemed to be going by at mid-day on my way to another place to drop anchor for the night.
Fortunately, bad weather ahead caused me to stop and get a spot on the transient pier in mid afternoon and we spent the night in Fort Myers while waiting for the cold front to pass by.
First Street is a short walk from the marina, and “The Lodge” was a very pleasant surprise for our meal that evening. In fact, I was so impressed that after I finished moving our sailboat to its homeport, I got my wife to drive back to Fort Myers with me so that she could also enjoy the Brisket and Bar-b-que at “The Lodge”. I won’t be bypassing Fort Myers anymore. thelodgefl.com
Reply to David
Feb 4, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 15 Comments
UPDATE on Anchoring Ban in Florida ICW – HB1051
As reporter Branon Edwards relates in this article in the Broward/Palm Beach New Times, HB1051 is being presented today (1/26) by a group of Florida legislators. Bill is reported on 1/27 as passed with 12 Yea votes. Click Here for related opinion.
February 3 UPDATE from our friends at AGLCA Forum
UPDATE ON FLORIDA ANCHORING LEGISLATION
An amended version of the HB1051 (now CS/HB1051) passed a committee last week. SSCA and AGLCA members, along with our other boating partners, spoke against the amended bill which included a safe harbor provision and the ability for law enforcement, government boats and rescue boats to anchor overnight. The prohibition on overnight anchoring remained, which we don’t support. We are working to modify that provision. At present calls and emails should be directed to members of the House State Affairs Committee stating the following:
“I am (a Florida resident/Florida tourist) and cruise extensively in Florida waters. I oppose the present language in CS/HB1051 because the bill does not give cruising boats the ability to anchor for a reasonable time while in navigation under federal law. We are also concerned that this bill opens the door for communities to pursue similar legislation without adequate justification which would result in unfair, random and unreasonable anchoring restrictions. A better way to address the issues in these areas is to pursue enactment of a comprehensive mooring/anchoring planning and adoption process that would apply to all communities, not just selected ones.”
If you are a Florida resident, please look at the member list below, if you live in one of the member’s area, you should send a separate note to them stating you are a constituent.
Here is link to the committee website:
http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Committees/committeesdetail.aspx?CommitteeId=2851

Yachts anchored in Fort Lauderdale’s Middle River basin, which would be illegal if proposed legislation passes. Branon Edwards
BY BRANON EDWARDS TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2016 | 3 HOURS AGO
A battle is heating up between rich owners of waterfront property and boaters who, instead of docking, use anchors to keep their boats cheaply (free!) in the Intracoastal Waterway. The rich have argued that these anchored boats ruin their view — especially vessels that have been abandoned and become decrepit. Many boaters, however, contend that they are responsible and have rights to use the waterway.
As they say, “the squeaky wheel gets the grease.” In this case, the squeaky wheel appears to be wealthy property owners along Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway, and the grease is a nasty bit of proposed legislation known in the House as HB1051 and in the Senate as SB1260. Both bills in Tallahassee aim to make it illegal to anchor overnight in parts of the Intracoastal Waterway despite the waterway having been used for this purpose since its inception.
CLICK HERE for the full article by Branon Edwards
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Comments from Cruisers (15)

Tom Earnest -  May 20, 2016 - 10:46 pm

Unfortunately, boaters like to complain and bitch but when it comes to picking up the phone or e-mailing Florida Representatives or Senators, boaters did not care enough to contact the legislators.
K would like to hold to all of you Greg Staub who serves in the Florida House. Greg’s e-mail and phone calls was against the boll and he voted against the bill.
Even now you should contact members of the Florida Senate and House. We dropped the ball on this and now we have to live with it. Plus other communities will want to anchoring areas.
Reply to Tom

Rick Ritchie -  May 20, 2016 - 10:16 am

Editor’s comment: Rick’s comments are related to a posting on Edgewater Lake from 2011, but his argument is pertinent to the ongoing discussion of anchoring in Florida.

That is a good point, and only slightly misses the mark. You see, Edgewater Lake has been an anchorage… a Florida FWC designated anchorage, for a long. long time. So in light of this, here is a slightly better analogy. Suppose you spent your hard-earned retirement savings on a Florida home right next to a beautiful campground. One with an unpolluted, peaceful and rustic scenery that would inspire an artist to weep. Then suddenly, in April, some campers and motor homes start parking within your cherished and serene view. Some, of course, only park for a night or two. But others stay for the season. A few even leave their caravans behind and only visit on weekends. Of course this is all within the State legal limits of the camper owner, and the campground. Here is the question: Does the offended home-owner who lost his peaceful view have a legitimate and valid case against the camper owner?
Rick Ritchie
Reply to Rick

Capt. Bob -  March 6, 2016 - 1:42 pm

OK, let’s be fair and intelligent about this issue. Sure, I can understand the objection to having “plainly obvious derelict boats” permanently moored in view of anyone home, on the other hand, transient boats and those owned by Florida property owners who moor their boats which are well maintained should not have the right, under traditional federal law, taken away.
As for transient boat, passing through Florida waters, as a compromise, why not have a time limit, say 1-3 days at mooring, longer for needed repairs. It seems to be forgotten, transients go ashore to replenish supplies and such to spend money in the Florida economy.
As for me on my trips to the South coasting along Florida should this a Bill of total mooring prohibition pass, I will prepare to by-pass Florida while sailing off-shore all the way. But, what about refuge in extreme weather? There is a lot of question and considerations in this issue.
Capt. Bob
but what about refuge in extreme weather
Reply to Capt.

Capt. Whit -  February 9, 2016 - 9:10 am

For whatever it is worth, I sent the following to Bernie Sanders!
Bernie,
This is a struggle that should be right up your alley and if you would like my vote for President perhaps you could get involved with this issue. There is a bill in the Florida legislature that is essentially a ban on cruising boat anchoring in safe harbors where the wealthy have big houses and don’t want their views obstructed by cruising boats anchoring there! A very typical 2% kind of mentality. I am making my very first trip on our boat down to Florida this winter from VT and have, in fact, just entered Florida waters. The boating community has asked Florida boaters or visitors to contact the members of the Florida House State Affairs Committee stating the following: (I figured I could do one better by asking you to assist since this is definitely an issue with the wealthy not wanting their nice expensive harbor views to be obstructed.)
“I am (a Florida resident/Florida tourist) and cruise extensively in Florida waters. I oppose the present language in CS/HB1051 because the bill does not give cruising boats the ability to anchor for a reasonable time while in navigation under federal law. We are also concerned that this bill opens the door for communities to pursue similar legislation without adequate justification which would result in unfair, random and unreasonable anchoring restrictions. A better way to address the issues in these areas is to pursue enactment of a comprehensive mooring/anchoring planning and adoption process that would apply to all communities, not just selected ones.”
What do you say, Bernie – want to fight for the middle class against the 1 and 2% ers?
Thanks,
Reply to Capt.

Jim Healy -  February 5, 2016 - 6:57 pm

I’m pretty convinced that nibbling at the heals of the committees will not be productive. I am a Florida resident, and today, I sent the following to my Florida State Representative. I strongly suggest interested boaters who are Florida residents also contact their home representatives. This will ultimately be adopted or stopped in the legislature as a whole, not in committee.
Letter follows:
Dear Representative Van Zant;
My wife and I are Florida residents of Florida, residing at Green Cove Springs. We use our boat to cruise throughout Florida’s wonderful public trust waters. This bill violates the public trust responsibility that the Florida legislature has to ensure Florida’s waters are available for use by all of her citizens and visitors. This bill favors the selfish aesthetic interests of wealthy waterfront landowners who knew, or should have known when they bought their properties, that boats use waters adjacent to their properties. HB1051 targets small, select and wealthy areas of the state. The bill will create confusion among non-local boaters and confusion will greatly complicate voluntary compliance. Finally, I feel that the safety of boaters could be greatly compromised by what effectively amounts to closure of these anchorages.
I have a detailed article on the public trust doctrine on my personal website, here: https://gilwellbear.wordpress.com/category/cruising-practica/general-cruising/anchoring-rights/.
Please, Mr. Van Sant, honor the public trust responsibility that goes with your office, and vote against this discriminatory bill which clearly favors big money interests. Please, do not succumb to an act of class warfare by supporting a class-based prohibition. Please support the public trust!
Very sincerely yours,
James B. Healy
(914) 466-5829
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
http://gilwellbear.wordpress.com
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
Reply to Jim

Tom Earnest -  February 1, 2016 - 1:34 pm

Below is a list of Florida Legislators who voted yes on this. If you want to help yourself e-mail and let your views be heard.
If you are not willing to do that, why bitch on this forum?
Thank you for contacting Rep. Steube regarding HB 1051 – Recreational Boating Zones by Rep. Caldwell.
Link to HB 1051:
http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=56022&SessionId=80
HB 1051 favorably passed with a committee substitute during the Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee January 26, 2016 meeting. You can view archived video of this meeting by going to this link: http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/VideoPlayer.aspx?eventID=2443575804_2016011358&committeeID=2852
Additionally, a vote sheet from the January 26 meeting is below:
Bill Number:
1051
Bill Name:
CS/HB 1051
Action:
Favorable With Committee Substitute
Committee:
Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee
Location:
Reed Hall (102 HOB)
Duration:
2.00
Date:
1/26/2016 12:00:00 PM
Sponsor:
Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee and C…
Subject:
Recreational Boating Zones
Y Boyd
Y DuBose
Y Lee
Y Smith
Y Sullivan
Y Combee
Y Edwards
Y Pilon
Y Stevenson
– Watson, C.
Y Drake
Y Goodson
Y Raburn
Total Yeas:
12
Total Nays:
0
Total Missed:
1
Total Votes:
13
Reply to Tom

Tom Earnest -  January 30, 2016 - 12:57 pm

Guys,
I sent 51 e-mails to Florida Legislators using the e-mail posted below, Google Chrome as my browser and Chroamie(???) which automatically fills out the blanks on their forms in 21 MINUTES!
Do something to help all of us!
Reply to Tom

Tom Earnest -  January 30, 2016 - 12:16 pm

I just sent this to my Florida State Representative. Took less than 5 minutes.
Would you please vote against S
HB 1051, SB 1260: Recreational Boating Zones
Recreational Boating Zones; prohibiting overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified recreational boating zones, etc.
I keep my 58’ boat behind my condo and do quite a bit of cruising spending Thousands of dollars while I do that. People like me provide a lot of jobs in Florida.
This bill is too broadly worded. The real issue is Derelict boats anchored in front of homes. The solution is to have a law defining Derelict boats well enough that either FWC, local police, and the Coast Guard can determine which boats are transient and which are derelict. Once documented by pictures by law enforcement, they can have a contractor who has won a contract to remove the vessels and either sell them or have the owners pay the towing and storage charges. When local officials think that derelict vessels are an issue then they can award a contract to a contractor for the removal of the vessels deemed derelict by law enforcement. Otherwise, the State should not be involved in this issue.
Since you represent an area full of boaters and homeowners with water views not to mention people and businesses that earn a living from these boaters, I wish you would inject some sanity into this highly emotionally charged issue.
Sincerely,
Reply to Tom

Tom Earnest -  January 30, 2016 - 12:09 pm

Guys,
Bitching on here has no effect.
Go to http://www.flsenate.gov/Senators/Find
pick either your state senator in Florida or pick one along the Intracoastal.
Go to http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/representatives.aspx
Do the same thing. I sent the flowing to mine.
Would you please vote against SB 1260, SB 1260: Recreational Boating Zones
GENERAL BILL by Simpson
Recreational Boating Zones; prohibiting overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified recreational boating zones, etc.
I keep my 58’boat behind my condo and do quite a bit of cruising spending Thousands of dollars while I do that. People like me provide a lot of jobs in Florida.
This bill is too broadly worded. The real issue is Derelict boats anchored in front of homes. The solution is to have a law defining Derelict boats well enough that either FWC, local police, and the Coast Guard can determine which boats are transient and which are derelict. Once documented by pictures by law enforcement, they can have a contractor who has won a contract to remove the vessels and either sell them or have the owners pay the towing and storage charges. When local officials think that derelict vessels are an issue then they can award a contract to a contractor for the removal of the vessels deemed derelict by law enforcement. Otherwise, the State should not be involved in this issue.
Since you represent an area full of boaters and homeowners with water views not to mention people and businesses that earn a living from these boaters, I wish you would inject some sanity into this highly emotionally charged issue.
Sincerely,
Do the same thing. If you want to cut and paste mine, at least you are doing SOMETHING. To the naysayers; what you’re doing is working too, right?
Talk about how much money you spend and how many jobs you help support.
Walk around with your laptop and get everyone you can to do the same thing on your computer. Otherwise they will never do it. When Legislators get a lot of mail on one issue, they usually do pay attention. Yes, wealthy water front homeowners do make political contributions and you don’t. This is the only chance we have
Reply to Tom

CHARLES F GEAR -  January 29, 2016 - 11:51 pm

Wait a minute… I thought this issue was resolved a couple of years ago…The ICW is a “Federal” waterway, right? SOFlorida cannot regulate…. what am I missing here?
Reply to CHARLES

Rick Ritchie -  May 20, 2016 - 7:58 pm

The ICW was officially commissioned by Congress in 1919 (even though Florida began construction decades earlier). The ICW is maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, under the command of Lieutenant General Todd T. Semonite (2016).
For the following rant, please forgive my cynicism. I actually know several impeccably honorable representatives. They do not seem to be running the show, unfortunately.
This issue will, in all likelihood, years from now, come down to a Federal vs Florida jurisdiction argument– a very short argument– with the obvious outcome. Florida legislators know…. or should know… that the passage of this Bill will, ultimately, be found to be in violation of Federal laws. But It seems to be the ‘way of things, now, for legislators to pass obviously illegal laws (so that they can get those donor dollars) and let the courts deal with their legality, later. After all, is it not the primary job of a legislator to cater to their d̶o̶n̶o̶r̶s̶, I mean constituents, regardless of Federal laws, civil rights, reason and logic? Please forgive my cynicism. I actually know several impeccably honorable representatives. They do not seem to be in the majority, unfortunately.
Perhaps if we got out our wallets and simply out-bid the very small number of squeaky-wheel donors….? “How much would it cost us to kill this, Mr. Caldwell ?” “… Mr. Moraitis?” (Strangely, both Republicans? and one of them a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. Say it ain’t so!)
Rick Ritchie
Sailor
Occasional cruiser
Florida Waterfront resident
Conservative (but not always Republican)
Remember, “ask not what your contributions can do for you, ask what you can do for your contributions.”
Reply to Rick

Mike -  January 29, 2016 - 4:46 pm

It does appear the winds from the land have now increased to such a strength they will blow every boat out of the designated water areas at nightfall.
In the past anchoring for weeks or months in a single location was acceptable.
Today it’s not.
Florida state owns the land under the waterway and it appears they will bend to the stronger winds.
Has anyone suggested a compromise to satisfy the landowners and transient boaters?
Reply to Mike

martin -  January 29, 2016 - 2:59 pm

No big deal for the plutocrats,They are all at the golf club rooting mr.trump on
Reply to martin

Capt. Mike Wright -  January 29, 2016 - 2:27 pm

The rights of mariners once again fall victim to the dollar.
” It’s so pretty here with the trees and the water and boats! I think I’ll build a house.” So they cut the trees and claim the water for themselves.
I’m sure they won’t complain about the “HIGHLANDER” parking overnight.
Reply to Capt.

Perry Mc -  January 27, 2016 - 11:55 am

Just heard the bill passed committee 12 Yeas. I have put my Representative on notice she (Stevenson) can forget my vote come re-election. I will work harder than ever to prevent her re-election.
Perry Mc
Reply to Perry
Jan 21, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 3 Comments 26.4567,-81.94339999
Skipper Needs West Florida Navigation Advice, Sanibel to Fort Myers Beach

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Salty Sams Marina occupies the northern banks of the Fort Myers Beach channel, northeast of marker #28. Sanibel Isalnd marks the western shore of San Carlos Bay.
I am moving my boat from Sanibel Harbour Club to Salty Sams Ft Myers Beach. Does anyone have directions via waterways. I know it’s just around the corner 40 min away but don’t know which canal to take to get there. Can someone please help me. Thanks. paulinecody@hotmail.com
Pauline Cody
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Salty Sams Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (3)

pauline -  January 23, 2016 - 2:57 pm

Thank you kindly most helpful
Reply to pauline

Bobby -  January 22, 2016 - 2:14 pm

Call Salty Sam’s for directions.
Bobby
Reply to Bobby

Kim -  January 22, 2016 - 11:03 am

Easy enough. Hang a left coming out of Sanibel Harbor and head under the sanibel bridge. Need to honor the reds until #6 then you can head for the tip of of Fort Myers Beach (aim to right a bit say the Beach pier) until you pick up the marks of Mantanza’s pass. Follow that in (favor the greens going around Bowditch point and exercise caution-the sand moves there. Follow the channel along the back side of Ft Myers Beach. Wave to the Coasties; go under the Mantanza Pass/Fort myers beach bridge; wave to the folks at Bonita BIlls; hang a hard left after you get under the bridge (it is very shoal in the middle ) following the marked channel around past the shrimp boats/docks and Salty Sams will be at the end of this commercial stretch.
Kim
Reply to Kim
Jan 20, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
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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Jan 15, 2016by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.835,-82.26069999
Good Words for Gasparilla Marina and Staff, GICW Statute Mile 34

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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. Our thanks to David Burnham for these kind words.
I forgot (nothing new at my age) to look at the fuel prices when we left Gasparilla Marina this morning after an overnight stay on our trip across the sandbar from Gulfport FL, to Jacksonville.
But I have to give the folks at Gasparilla Marina two thumbs up for accommodating us as we arrived at 10pm last night and easily found our assigned reserved slip for our 28 foot Catalina “Synergy” right where they’d described it earlier over the phone. Their facilities are first rate (warm on a very cool night) and we enjoyed our short stop over and a cup of coffee before leaving this morning at 8AM for the next leg to Fort Myers.
David Burnham
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Gasparilla Marina
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Jan 4, 2016by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments 26.4509,-82.03149999
Unfortunate Experience at Sanibel Marina, Statute Mile 0, West Florida ICW

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Skipper Cyr’s experience is not typical of past reports we have received on Sanibel Marina, see /140710, so we have a to assume that these difficulties were an exception to the marina’s normally professional service.
We were traveling with another boat and called two weeks ahead for our reservations. On the morning of our scheduled arrival we called to reconfirm and we were told everything was set, except that they could not let us in until they moved a couple of boats and that we should wait outside the harbor until notified to come in. We waited 30 minutes and heard nothing, we called the marina on the telephone, as they would not answer the VHF. Again we were told to wait. Finally, after about 45 minutes time and another VHF call, our buddy boat was instructed to come into the harbor and tie up. We were told not to come in as they were still in the process of moving a boat out of our slip space. Again we waited another 35 minutes with no communication. We called again and they finally answered on VHF and we were told they were having trouble getting the boat in our spot started and would get back to us. Another 20 minutes and we called on VHF again and the person responding said he was on the other side of the marina and didn’t know the status; he would check and get right back to us. My buddy boat called and said that the marina was lying to us; no one has been to the boat in our spot, the boat was still plugged in and tied up. It was getting late, (total wait time outside the harbor in boat traffic and wakes was in excess of one and one half hours). We needed to make alternative arrangements somewhere before dark so we left.
Ron Cyr
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Sanibel Island Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

W & J Mann - January 7, 2016 - 10:34 am

Regarding Sanibel Marina, we spent Christmas week last year (2014) in our Nordic tug “Celebration.” I think you have to understand that this marina caters to locals and is sold out most of the time, so they may at times seem a bit more difficult to communicate with. BUT, that being said, we had an ideal stay there last year and really love the place! Each morning a newspaper and bag of fresh muffins arrived on our deck…. We then spent a month at Marina Jack’s up in Sarasota and can not say enough good things about our stay there! Moorings are very reasonably priced and if you spend a week or month at the docks the rate becomes very reasonable. We tried to return to Sanibel for another week but no slips were available.As I say, they seem to have very limited space for transients. I would suggest booking far in advance, staying in touch with them, and have a Plan B at hand. We totally enjoyed the Municipal Marina in Ft Myers as well.
W & J Mann
Reply to W

Leslie Hartsell - January 7, 2016 - 10:33 am

We had a similar experience last year. We had reservations confirmed and reconfirmed. When we arrived, we were informed nobody was leaving and they didn’t have the previously promised space for us. We called Boca Grande Marina and explained the situation, they were most gracious and went out of their way to help us. We were fortunate that it was early enough in the day to make alternate plans. We were heading north toward Sarasota.
Leslie Hartsell
M/V /Somewhere
Gold Loopers 2009-10
Reply to Leslie
Dec 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 25.9608,-81.7129999
CCCC Visits Marco Island Marina, West Florida, south of Naples

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The Cape Coral Cruise Club is a group of dedicated cruisers who always provide unique reports from the marinas they visit. Marco Island Marina will be found along the Marco ‘“ Naples waterway’s southerly banks, immediately west of the high-rise fixed Marco Island bridge.
Cape Coral Cruise Club returns to Marco Island
By Terry and Laurie Carlson
Eleven boats were greeted with sunny skies for the November trip to Marco Island Marina, a destination that had been off the Club schedule for a few years. All boats were neatly snuggled into their slips with the aid of dock master, Elmer Mimas, who located the entire group on one dock for our convenience. Cruise leaders for this cruise were Terry and Laurie Carlson. The boats no sooner got tied up and the fun began as all boaters were introduced to the cruise leader’s Marco Island Poker Run, receiving their score cards and their first playing card. Subsequent cards were issued at different scheduled events throughout the three day cruise.
Tuesday evening was kicked off with Heavy hors d’oeuvres by the pool, followed by a Cape Coral Cruise Club Member Trivia game prepared by cruise leaders,Terry and Laurie Carlson. Participants enjoyed learning little known facts about Cruise Club members that had been gleaned from Bio’s that are soon to be published on the Club website. Gary Taake was the winner of the competition. Valuable prizes were awarded!
Breakfast was served Wednesday morning by the cruise leaders. Main dishes included Apple Monkey Bread, Sausage Hash Brown Casserole, a Stuffed Pancake casserole and more. Pretty sure nobody left hungry. Wednesdays daytime activity was a fun trip to the Marco Island Farmers Market that ended with a nice lunch/drinks at the Esplanade marina. The Wednesday evening meal, provided by the cruise leaders,along with contributions from other cruisers, was centered around the Carlson’s `almost famous backyard smoked’ pulled pork with all the trimmings. After dinner entertainment was provided by John and Patti Queen and their `When the Hell was that?’ competition. Winner was Pat Kryger with runner up Donna Overstreet. Once again, valuable prizes were awarded. CCCC has neat contests’¦
Thursday morning brought yet another breakfast by the pool with Scrambled eggs with cheese, rolls and fruit. Later that morning a trip to the Marco Island Museum was on tap. Approximately 10 people enjoyed learning the history of Marco Island from ancient times to present modern development.
Thursday evening was our dinner out at CJ’s on the Bay at Esplanade. Cruisers were treated to a beautiful facility and marina on the bay at the Esplanade with a wonderful menu that provided something tasty for everyone. The after dinner highlight was the culmination of the Marco Island Poker Run. Final cards were drawn and the winners were Bill and Donna Peterson’¦ and yes, valuable prizes were awarded.
Friday morning all boats cast off, bid a fond farewell to Marco Island Marina and headed back north for a smooth Gulf ride back to the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area.
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 Marco Island Marina
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Dec 1, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9291,-82.06339999
Celebrate Lighting the Menorah at Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda, FL

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Another of the ways Fishermen’s Village works to make your Holiday Season ever so special! Punta Gorda, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is on Western Florida’s Charlotte Harbor/Peace River. Whether you are moored in Punta Gorda’s mooring field or berthed at Fishermen’s Village Marina, also A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, you will enjoy your visit .

CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY TO CELEBRATE
THE HOLIDAY OF CHANUKAH AT FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE
The public is cordially invited to join us for the holiday celebration of Chanukah on Saturday Night, December 12th, the 7th night of Chanukah at 7:00 pm in front of the main entrance to Fishermen’s Village. Each night an additional light is kindled until the Menorah is ablaze with eight beautiful lights in celebration of Chanukah. The message of the menorah is a universal one, expressing the importance of bringing light, warmth and holiness to the darkest places.
Chabad of Charlotte County, Rabbi Jacobson, will be among those who will light the candles. Children participating will receive chanukah treats. There will be a children’s performance by ‘The junior jacappelia’. Chabad of Charlotte County is a proud member of the worldwide Chabad movement, dedicated to bringing the message and beauty of Judaism to the Jewish community residing in Charlotte County, by providing educational, spiritual, religious and cultural events and programs in a non-judgmental environment.
For more information contact Chabad of Charlotte County at 941- 833 -3381 or www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com
Fishermen’s Village is located off Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. Visit www.fishville.com for full holiday event details.
Kathy Burnam
Marketing/Events Manager
Fishermen’s Village
mkting@fishville.com
P 941 575-3007
M 941 258-1327
F 941 637-1054
www.fishville.com
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Punta Gorda Waterfront Anchorage
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Nov 27, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.7404,-82.69619999
Removing Derelict Vessels from Boca Ciega Bay, Gulfport, FL

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Our thanks to faithful contributor David Burnham for sending us this Facebook video by Dan Liedtke of a derelict vessel being removed from Boca Ciega Bay, which is home to SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Gulfport Municipal Marina. 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.
https://www.facebook.com/DanRLiedtke/videos/1068989299805807/
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Western Florida Marina Directory Listing For Gulfport Municipal Marina
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Nov 26, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 27.3153,-82.59819999
Shoaling at Entrance to New Pass, Sarasota, FL

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New Pass leads directly to the Sarasota waterfront and the entrance portion between the Entrance Light and Light 7 is constantly shifting.
FLORIDA – CHARLOTTE HARBOR TO TAMPA BAY – NEW PASS: Shoaling.
The U.S. Coast Guard has received a report of shoaling in the vicinity of New Pass Entrance Light NP (LLNR 21585/1345 [27°18.9185N / 082°35.8861W, 27.315309 / -82.598102]) and New Pass Channel Light 7 (LLNR 21620 [27°19.6814N / 082°35.2924W, 27.328024 / -82.588206]). The Entrance Channel is subject to continual change. Buoys are not charted because they are frequently shifted in position. Local knowledge recommended as the channel is constantly changing.
Chart 11425 LNM 47/15
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Nov 25, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.4387,-81.9199999
Good Words for Snook Bight Marina, Fort Myers Beach, FL

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Snook Bight Marina guards the northern shores of Estero Island, between markers #27 and #29, well east and southeast of the high-rise Fort Myers Beach Bridge, on the Mantanzas Pass channel
This is an excellent facility, with an outstanding ships store and a high quality boatyard with haul out. Added bonus is one of the best fine dining spots in the area, and the fact that a Publix super market is behind the marina. Great stop fir provisioning.
David Hughes
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Snook Bight Marina
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Nov 25, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Gulf Crossing Roll Call
This call for a fleet formation of Gulf crossing vessels is from our good friends at AGLCA.
Hey all,
We are moving to Panama City today To sort of get in position for our crossing. Since it has been awhile since the weather window opened many of us have taken Eddy’s advice and been slow floating Since getting off of the rivers. Loopers are strung out from Carrabelle back to Mobile. It looks like that when a opportunity finally arrives there will be a whole armada of us moving. It would be nice to know how many, who we are and planned crossing speed.
Probably not too early to get a roll call of vessels who are staged intending to cross at the next window since we are at many different ports right now. Our plans a capability:
Panama City until the window is a day or so away. Then Apalachacola or Carrabelle (if there will even be room). If no room we are capable of going direct from Panama City.
Boat speed 7 MPH to 25 MPH. Prefer 10 – 20.
Charlie and Kay Woodard
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Gaz - June 7, 2016 - 10:41 am

Charlie & Kay,
Keep in mind that scallop season starts the 25th of June which will be an issue gaining dockage the closer you get to this date. That said there are many nice marinas reminiscent of old time Florida along the Big Bend area. Don’t expect anything fancy but you will receive great friendship and clean accommodations. All the marinas I’ll mention can handle a 3 foot draft and then some. Be cautious of the depth in this area.
1) Swanne River ahs two: Swannee River marina 352 542 9159 & Gateway Marina 352 542 7349 Call the local BoatUS Tow for current channel depths and USE THE NORTH channel NOT the river.
2) Yankee Town; YT marina 352 447 2529; B’s talk with Helen 352-447-5888; Riverside 352-447-2890 This is one of my vavorite stops.
3) Crystal River: Petes’s 352 795 3302 & Twin River 352 795 3552 This area thinks highly of there dock space but if you’ve never been to Crystal River the stop might be nice.
4) Now to my favorite river the Steinhatchee: For a nice motel with dockage call Shelter Cove. They have recently been bought out by Ideal Marine so you can be the first to review them. 352 498 5707/352-210-1781. There are also Good Times Motel never been there 352 498-8088; SeaHag 352 498-3008 lots wakes; River Haven my favorite 352 498-0709/352-356=2904;
This is outland Florida so best to phone in advance to qualify all your requirements.
Reply to Gaz
Nov 10, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.9291,-82.06339999
Cape Coral Cruise Club Visits Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda, FL

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The CCCC proves that there was always plenty to do on their visit to Charlotte Harbor. Fishermen’s Village Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is on Charlotte Harbor/Peace River’s southeastern shore.
CCCC Revisits Fisherman’s Village Marina
By Steve and Nell Winner
Despite a rocky, rolling, breeze driven Charlotte Harbor, eleven hardy Cape Coral Cruise Club vessels and their crews maneuvered their way to Fisherman’s Village Marina in Punta Gorda for the October 21-23 cruise. Counting the boat crews and folks who traveled by land yacht, over 30 club members enjoyed all or some of planned activities over the 3 day event.
While some went fishing, others played card games, went biking on Marina provided bicycles, or visited the local art galleries. All enjoyed shopping at the local craft and tourist shops on Fisherman’s Village concourse. Warm weather and light breezes added to the pleasure of afternoon pool time where many members floated and shared stories of the day.
Steve and Nell Winner coordinated the cruise and attending members enjoyed daily hot breakfast casseroles prepared by Nell. As is customary with this group each afternoon ended with happy hour snacks and docktails in the Captain’s lounge. The staff at Fisherman’s Village Marina are quite accommodating in that the Marina makes the Captain’s lounge available at no added cost.
Wednesday was a pre-arranged pizza party in the Captain’s lounge with several pizzas delivered by a local restaurant. All enjoyed pizza along with their favorite beverages.
Thursday evening was the group dinner party at the `Captains Table’ restaurant on the second floor at the north end of the concourse. All participants enjoyed a wonderful salad bar and meal overlooking Charlotte Harbor while watching the sun set on a beautiful clear evening.
The Friday morning departure saw all boaters safely exiting the harbor and traversing much calmer conditions on Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The Cape Coral Cruise Club has been making Fisherman’s Village Marina a fall cruise destination for years and it is a cruise that regularly takes all the slips that the marina makes available.
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
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Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Fishermen’s Village
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Oct 31, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More on Red Tide Risks on the Beaches of Florida
These latest warnings must be heeded if you have children or pets playing at the beach. See “Red tide public health risks” below.

For immediate release: October 30, 2015
Contact: Kelly Richmond, FWC 727-502-4784
Red tide confirmed in Florida: What you need to know
Red tide is a naturally occurring, higher-than-normal concentration of microscopic algae. In Florida, the species that causes most red tides is Karenia brevis. This organism produces toxins that can affect the central nervous system of aquatic organisms such as fish and marine mammals. Red tide toxins also pose a human health risk. The toxins can aerosolize and be carried to beaches with onshore winds, leading to respiratory irritation in people. Toxins can accumulate in shellfish and result in illnesses if contaminated shellfish are consumed. Shellfish harvesting areas are closed when blooms are present.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) researchers are currently monitoring two blooms along Florida’s Gulf coast, one located in northwest Florida and the other in southwest Florida.
`We confirmed the presence of both blooms in September, and they have persisted since that time,’ said Alina Corcoran, FWC research scientist. `The bloom in the Panhandle is currently affecting Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay and Gulf counties. In southwest Florida, patchy blooms have been confirmed along Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties. Extensive fish kills and respiratory irritation have been associated with the bloom in the Panhandle but in southwest Florida the effects have been less.’
Red tide public health tips:
People in a red tide area can experience varying degrees of eye, nose and throat irritation. When a person leaves an area with a red tide, symptoms usually go away.
People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic lung disease are cautioned to avoid areas with active red tides.
In some red tides, dead fish wash ashore; during these conditions it is advised that beachgoers avoid swimming in water where dead fish are present.
Pet owners are advised that red tide poses a risk to animals brought to the beach. If a pet swims in a red tide patch at the beach, rinse off its fur and paws as soon as possible with fresh water. Also, do not let pets eat fish or drink water from the red tide.
Recreational harvesting of bivalve mollusks such as hard clams, oysters and mussels from approved shellfish harvesting areas is banned during red tide closures. To determine whether harvesting of shellfish is permitted in an area, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Aquaculture website.
FWC researchers work closely with partners, including Mote Marine Laboratory, the University of South Florida, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture and NOAA, to track blooms, share information and develop products that help to inform both citizens and scientists about bloom conditions.
`Citizen scientists play a vital role in tracking blooms. Volunteers can provide the majority of water samples for bloom tracking in regions like the Panhandle,’ said Corcoran.
For updated red tide status reports, to track blooms or learn more about red tide, visit MyFWC.com/RedTide. To report fish kills to the FWC, contact the Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511 or submit a report online.
Additional red tide resources:
Red tide facts and information pocket guide and Fact sheet
Florida Department of Health
Shellfish Harvesting Area Status
Mote Marine Laboratory Beach Condition Reporting System at Mote.org/Beaches
USF Collaboration for the Prediction of Red Tides (CPR)
NOAA Harmful Algal Bloom Operational Forecast System (HAB-OFS)

And this from WTSP 10 News:
Red tide sparks tourism concerns
Eric Glasser, WTSP 5:40 p.m. EST December 9, 2015
St. Petersburg Beach, FL — Pictures of dead fish washing ashore in the Bay area are not the images that tourism officials want popping up on social media.
But red tide, say marine scientists, is now here. And how long it will last, they admit, is a mystery.
Visitors like Kathy Keleher who came to St. Petersburg from Canada to experience its cuisine and culture have seen the images of bloated fish now floating in Boca Ciega Bay.
“And then it’s gross, and it stinks,” said Keleher, “I don’t expect that at all. I expect beautiful white sandy beaches and clear water and palm trees. Not that,” she said.
It’s not what those who rely on tourism want people texting their friends and relatives back home.
“No, I mean it’s horrible for business obviously,” said Wade Parrish, head chef at O’Maddy’s Bar and Grille in Gulfport.
“You know, the smell would be a deterrent for people to come out here and sit outside and enjoy the wonderful view that we’ve got here,” said Parrish.
Bob Weisberg with the University of South Florida’s Marine Sciences lab in St. Petersburg, says red tide, or Karenia Brevis as they call it, can kill fish and even cause respiratory distress for people and marine mammals in high enough concentration.
“There is very little we can do about the red tide,” said Weisberg, describing it as simply too large.
“This particular plant can get a foothold, and when it does it then dominates,” said Weisberg, “which is what’s happening right now,” he said.
The red tide algae, says Weisberg, makes its way inland from deep in the Gulf of Mexico riding along strong underwater currents.
Scientists, he says, could better predict how long it might stick around if they were able to take more offshore observations.
Unfortunately, he says, the estimated $300,000 cost to consistently send a boat out into the Gulf of Mexico to take those readings is regularly cut out of the state budget.
Commonly, red tide will begin to dissipate this time of the year, said Weisberg.
But he also warned that there have been some seasons when the algae bloom has survived well into the summer.
For a closer look at the underwater current charts Weisberg and his colleagues at USF use to try to predict the direction red tide may be moving, click here.
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Oct 23, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.8749,-82.31359999
Good Words for Cape Haze Marina, Gulf ICW Statute Mile 38.5

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Cape Haze Marina flanks the eastern shores of the ICW/Lemon Bay, south of unlighted daybeacon #9. See /?p=148478 for great photos! This report is from our good friends at AGLCA.
The Cape Haze Marina is about 4.5 miles before the bridge [Boca Grande Swing Bridge] and is the best deal in the area. The staff and live aboards ar very friendly and helpful. I received 3 offers to take me to the local Publix the first day there. We were caught by the weather and this marina at $1.50/ft. electric included was our choice. The docks are fixed wood in good condition. Restaurant about 3/4 mile away (very good), but the heads and showers are only open from 07:30am to 5:00pm. WiFi is iffy at the transient dock.
Mitch & Carole Brodkin
Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cape Haze Marina
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Oct 12, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments
Another Abandoned Vessel in West Florida
Abandoned, derelict vessels are much discussed and bemoaned, but the cost of removal continues to prevent communities from addressing the problem. See /?p=150203, as well as other articles by typing “derelicts” in the Search window in our Homepage.
After last Sundays, Oct. 4th, big winds, we have another abandoned vessel washed ashore at DeSoto Park, Manatee River, Bradenton FL.
Winston Fowler
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

W. Merriman - October 16, 2015 - 6:28 pm

Has anyone contacted Boat Angels to see if they wanted the boats? They may not take all of them depending on the costs. But even just a few would be beneficial.
Maybe the municipalities would share the cost.
Reply to W.

Tom Wemett - October 23, 2015 - 2:09 pm

The boat probably belongs to someone. You can’t take the vessel if it is titled in someone’s name. To give it to Boat Angels or any organization the owner would have to transfer the title over to the new owner.
Reply to Tom
Oct 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 26.1378,-81.79099999
Cape Coral Cruising Club Visits Naples Boat Club, Naples, FL

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This fine group of boaters, made up of overnight cruisers from the Cape Coral area, is a cruising club worth following as they visit marinas along the West Coast. Naples Boat Club overlooks the western banks of Gordon River, upstream of the Naples City Pier. This facility lies within walking distance of many shopping and dining attractions in downtown Naples.
CCCC Enjoys a fun time at Naples Boat Club

Member boats moored at Naples Boat Club
Seventeen boats braved the `unknown” by taking a trip down the Gulf of Mexico for our annual trip to the beautiful Naples Boat Club. Why that adjective? September on the Gulf of Mexico’¦ are you going to deal with a potential hurricane or be delighted by a gorgeous sunny day. Some southbound boaters experienced bumpy seas, but all arrived safely. Those cruising were Y Knot, Phil and Pat Kryger;, Infinite Sea, Paul and Stephanie Carrico; The Geezers, Stu and Jane Harelik; MarKate, Mark and Kate Lewis; Princess, Jim and Edie Limbright; Surface Interval, Bruce and Sue Longman; B Mine, Joe and Kelli Mille;, Hardee II, Hal and Dee Moss; Sharon Ann, Len and Sharon Palmisano; Luna Sea, Doug and Michelle Rhees; Spoiled Yacht’n , Armond and Pam Sykes; Still Crazy, Jeff and Joanne Ziemer ; C R Side, Bob and Carol Peterson; Wine Down, George and Carol Smith; Happy Ours, Gary and Kathy Taake; Knot Again, Larry and Maryanne Habich; and Sunkissed, Phil and Lyn Quick.
Club members experienced three days of clouds and lots of rain. However, it did not lessen our appetites for food, drink, and fun & games. So that everyone could relax on arrival day, cruise leaders Phil and Lyn Quick, saw to it that no one would go hungry. One hundred and fifty pieces of fried chicken were provided along with hot buttered biscuits, potato salad, and sliced tomatoes. Way too much chicken. Pumpkin pie with lots of whipped cream was a wonderful finishing touch. Needless to say anyone requiring chicken for the rest of the cruise did not have to look past the refrigerator to find plenty of leftovers.
Day two provided us with even more rain. Therefore several card and other table games became the activity for many in the beautiful Naples Boat Club Clubhouse. After a nice continental breakfast of pastries and fresh fruit several members pulled out their rain gear and walked to Tin City and Fifth Avenue to help stimulate the local economy.

Members have dinner at CafÃ© Luna, Naples, Fl
Thursday morning had more bakery delights provided as another gloomy wet day was upon us. No one was brave enough to put on bathing suits and sit by the pool the entire trip. A bus trip to the Naples Zoo was cancelled due to rain. Most people figured a way to offset the weather and make the best of the day.
We then walked to the front of the Naples Boat Club building to the Wharf Tavern to have a wonderful lobster dinner with all the trimmings. Luckily it was a short, sheltered walk, because…you guessed it’¦yep…still raining!
Most folks retired early knowing the forecast for a northbound departure day was again uncertain. Some left at daybreak and some left at their leisure to take on a smooth Gulf and relish the great times we all had. We look forward to the next cruise trip to again enjoy the camaraderie and boating that the Cape Coral Cruise Club provides.
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 Naples Boat Club
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Oct 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 9 Comments
Trawler Skipper Requesting Navigation Route, Naples to Key West
Skipper Crenshaw is seeking advice on the run from Naples to Key West. If you have experience in these waters, let us hear from you.
We hope to do our first trip from Naples , Florida to Key West. We will depart from Naples at end of December. We are not comfortable too far out in gulf and we do not mind making in two day trip with one overnite preferably in marina. We have 42 trawler with 4 foot draft . We cannot seem to select best track.
Can you help with some suggestion tracks/paths down west coast side?
Thanks
Bob Crenshaw
Sea Path Marina
Wrightsville Beach, NC
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Comments from Cruisers (9)

Jay Light -  October 10, 2015 - 10:11 am

We sail our 36-ft sailboat from Fort Myers Beach to Key West regularly, but do it as one twenty-two hour passage at 5.5 kt. It’s 28 miles longer than from Naples – obviously an over-nighter for us.
We have also gone to Marco and left at 4 am and arrived before dark the same day, sailing straight line. It does take you offshore a bit.
You can get from Marco to Marathon all in daylight. You can probably do it from Naples, too, if you can go eight kts. I have a good set of waypoints I’ll send you if you like. You need to know where you are going through the Moser Channel 7-mile bridge to Marathon. One big drawback of this passage in December is that this section of Florida Bay from Cape Romano to Marathon is wall-to-wall stone crab traps. It’s like going through a thirty mile-slalom course unless you’re not concerned with snagging a trap.
It’s a good day’s run from Marathon to Key West, either on the inside if your draft allows it, or on the Hawk Channel between the Keys and the barrier reef.
Jay Light
S/V ALBORADA
Ft. Myers Beach
Reply to Jay

Maris Eshleman -  October 9, 2015 - 10:54 pm

Bob,
The trip from Naples to the Keys is very simple. We did it last year in our 45′ sailboat with a 5′ draft. We did an overnight from Marathon to Naples a distance of less than 100 nm and then from Charlotte Harbor back to Key West which is less than 150 nm. The distance from Naples to Key West isn’t much different than to Marathon. Assuming you run around 10 kts it is an easy day trip. The water once you get out of Gordon Pass in Naples is mostly 10-30′ deep (some deeper) until you get to Key West where there are multiple shoals and islets so you will need to plan which channel you need to take to were you’re going at Key West. My suggestion is to pick a good weather day and do the trip in a day unless you want to do some other sight seeing along the way. At 4′ you shouldn’t have any issues as long as you watch your charts. Also, the waters around south Florida and the Keys are full of crab and lobster pots along with fish traps so you will need to keep a good watch. We did overnights and had no problems.
Reply to Maris

john kremski -  October 9, 2015 - 4:23 pm

Avoid the Marinas!! This is the prettiest part of Florida, and should be ANCHORED OUT to enjoy.
You can go on the inside from Naples to Marco, then outside around Johnson Shoals (east of Marco Island is a bit skinny water, but the shrimpers and crab boats do it – I did it with 3′ draft and got out of the channel in the fog and ran aground). After Johnson Shoals, head back east into the ten thousand islands and spend as many days anchored in this beautiful area as your schedule allows – there are dozens of spots just inside the mangrove islands. You can run south along the park boundary markers in good depth, and never be too far from a safe anchorage. After you get to the Little Shark River, I always head directly to the keys, via the yacht channel, and then run the north side to the keys to Key West.. There is a brief interval just before arrival in Key West Northwest Channel where you have to go in unprotected waters, so wait for calm or some direction other than North wind for that.
Reply to john

John Scott -  October 9, 2015 - 2:39 pm

Ben, made that trip last January. We went from Marco Island to Little Shark River, overnight anchorage, then down to 7 mile bridge and turned west for Key West. Shark River to Key West took about 10 hours. We cruised at 7-8 knts. Winds normally are easterly and we left Shark River at first light to take advantage of the light winds. By the time we turned west the winds had picked up considerable but then they were a following sea, 3-5 ft. And 10-11 secs apart so ride was ok. We were prepared to spend several nights at Shark River if winds dictated. Pick a good 2 day weather window.
Reply to John

Ted Guy -  October 9, 2015 - 2:00 pm

The last time I cruised Florida Bay was late August 1980, Marathon to Naples, but then the chief hazard other than weather was the lobster or crab traps, some with buoys just under the surface. Thousands of them! You may want to add cutter blades to your shafts.
Reply to Ted

Kim -  October 8, 2015 - 11:41 am

We always do it as a straight shot overnight. It is just under 100 nautical miles Naples pier to Key West. I use 5 knots for planning but unless weather is ugly do about 6.5 so 15-20 hours from Naples. Weather matters. Pick a cold front and ride south BEHIND it a day or 2. Typically we leave Ft Myers at noon; off Naples at 5P and NW Channel next morning, arrive Key west noon. So no ‘real’ navigating in dark. Set the gps/autopilot on the NW Channel bell buoy, Current runs west to east there so a little westing early is useful. The shrimp boats, if any, are lit up like downtown and there is nothing else out there (actually there are a couple of air force relay towers but you won’t likely even see them- google air force relay towers to find exact coordinates). Pay attention to the breakwater at the entrance to the NW Channel (don’t do this at night unless you have a good chart plotter). You can jump along the coast but it is longer as the coast moves significantly East south of Cape Romano. Marco isn’t far enough from Naples to help the cause; Goodland is better but you will need to worry about tide levels coming out by Coon Key. (Running the inside from Marco to Goodland is great but watch tides- 4′ draft is the upper end of what I’d be comfortable with especially in December ) If you anchor out there are good spots at Panther and Indian. Everglades City is nice but again 4′ is the upper limit of my comfort zone and you will lose time going up and down the river. Most folks I know push on to Little Shark, anchor out, and then jump to Marathon. Good Luck. Florida Bay can be mirror calm or a mess.
Reply to Kim

Curtis Hoff -  October 8, 2015 - 5:11 am

Ben:
You will definitely have to watch the water depth on the west side of the keys but you should be ok. I have done the “inside” of the keys a couple of times on my Fleming 55 with a 5′ draft. We try to time the shallow areas at high tide but still “touched” bottom a couple of times (I love a big keel!). It was a bit tight for us but you’ll have another foot of comfort so you should be fine. Just go slow and feel your way when it gets shallow – plus make sure your depth sounder is accurately calibrated.
Definitely wait for a very good weather day – not just one that looks ok or good enough.
A couple of points to consider:
The open water distance to either Marathon or Key West is not very different – they are very much open water. Depending on your speed the time difference direct to Key West is only around an hour or so longer.
Many days the fast ferry runs to Key West so there is some comfort knowing at least one boat will be in the vicinity for part of the travel if you go direct to Key West.
If you go to Marathon definitely make a reservation/late arrival arrangements ahead of time. Sometimes space can be limited and they could be gone when you arrive – dock space at the city facility is very limited however the mooring field is amazing in size. I believe the mooring field doesn’t take reservations but we have been able to get reservations on their dock. There are other facilities there but we have only stayed on the dock at the city marina.
Ask around to see if you can find a “buddy” boat to travel along with – may be difficult to find but always nice if you can.
Key West is a great location and you will definitely enjoy it. We’re spending the month of March there again this year and will travel the same route from Naples area straight to Key West.
Don’t hesitate to call or email if you have any questions.
Regards,
Curtis
Reply to Curtis

Winston Fowler -  October 8, 2015 - 5:08 am

Get as far south as possible, maybe the Rod and Gun Club at Everglades City, or Calusa Island Marina at Goodland, but certainly no further north than Marco Island.
Then head for middle of the keys, say Marathon area . Leave at daybreak although I am not sure of your speed. We’ve done the Marco to Key West, but we can cruise at 15 knots and that makes a big difference.
Watch your wind forecast. You will get some break from easterly winds if you go down through Florida Bay and close in to Cape Sable. All this being said, it has been a few years since I have made the trip. Lets see what really comes in from some folks who may have made the trip more recently.
Winston Fowler
Reply to Winston

Chris -  October 9, 2015 - 3:54 pm

I had a sailboat that made around 5 knots and drew 5.5 feet. I started out in Fort Myers Beach, and day tripped down the west coast to Everglades City. I had no difficulty in finding safe harbors that would accommodate my draft, but beyond Everglades City, there were no other anchorages that were deep enough.
I and stayed at the Rod and Gun club, and spent a day exploring the town. Watch the overhead power cable. Locals indicated that it was lower than 65 feet, and they took great pleasure in seeing sailboaters come to grief there. Not sure if their info was correct, but just be aware.
Since there were no deep harbors between Everglades City and Key West, I planned on making an overnight trip to Key West. I staged just outside of the river, and departed at 3:30 PM. Got into Key West at 10 AM. Crab pots weren’t a huge problem.
Good luck with the trip.
Reply to Chris
Sep 26, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 26.5529,-82.19659999
Clarification Sought on Redfish Pass, off Pine Island Sound/GICW, between Captiva and North Captiva Islands

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Redfish Channel, which leads cruisers from the Western Florida ICW’s run through Pine Island Sound, and the entrance channel to South Seas Island Resort Marina have both been completely altered within the last year or so. Several earlier postings here on the Cruisers’ Net have noted this change. Skipper Chris is requesting local knowledge.
I have been through this pass 3 times and I am still confused by the way it is marked. Red Right Return from the Gulf brings you through some very shallow waters. Check your GPS chartplotter coming in’¦.quite unnerving! Thankful I draw only a couple feet. Any insight would be helpful! Only one red marker and it appears to be in the middle of a shoal!
Chris
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Redfish Pass
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Kim - September 26, 2015 - 8:16 pm

Lots of water- as in 10-30′ 2 tricks –
1) marks are certainly not as charted in the chartlet. they have been moved to keep pace with the shoaling. See: http://media.southseas.com/d/southsea/media/Marina/SSIR_Channel_Map_FINAL.pdf
2) treat the new green mark ‘1’ as an outer rendezvous to get lined up. Especially if you are coming from the south – you can’t just go to the the outer red and head in. stay offshore more; go to green ‘1’ then turn into the pass.
Last up there 2 weeks ago.
Kim
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