Registration is now open for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association’s (AIWA) 20th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Savannah, Georgia. For more detail , see Registration.
This is one of Claiborne’s early posting and today TJ Palmerton has questions for you, in the comments below.
I’ve copied the discussion below from the Net’s “Ask Your Neighbor” page, and the AGLCA mailing list. The never completed Florida Barge Canal pierces the Big Bend portion of the Western Florida coastline north of Crystal River, and short hop south of the western entrance of the Withlacoochee River. I have never tried anchoring here, but after reading the messages below, it looks like a real possibility!
Does anybody have recent information regarding access, depths and anchoring in the abandoned Cross Florida Barge Canal instead of going up to Yankeetown or Crystal River. This would mean continuing straight into the Barge Canal at G 23 instead of turning NE up the Withlacoohee River toward Yankeetown as mentioned in “Skipper Bob”. Chuck and Barbara Ganem “Gold Watch”
We anchored twice in the CFBC – once in 2008 and again in 2009. We need 4.5 feet of water and had no problem with depth. As I remember, it was 7-9 feet. The CFBC is well-sheltered from winds and has otters, dolphin, and bald eagles. Small (fast) boats use the CFBC to get to/from the boat ramp by the bridge, but the traffic is light and almost non-existent after dark. One caution, in 2009, we started to anchor a mile from the entrance (where we anchored in 2008) and were stopped by the Coast Guard. They directed us to anchor in the turning basin, which is maybe a mile east of the bridge. The turning basin will add about 4-5 miles to your trip (one way). Billy
Thank you for responding to my question regarding anchoring in the CFBC. I have since contacted the park ranger for that area thru a phone number I found on the government chart for that area now called the Cross Florida Greenway. His name is Chris McKenzie. He was very informative about the area and assured me that my draft of 4.5 feet would have no problem in the canal all the way to and including the turning basin which was about 1/2 mile past the highway bridge on the right side of the channel. He recommends that the turning basin is where to anchor and said it provides excellent protection from any direction. He explained that maybe about once every three months a tow and barge uses the canal to transport loads from mining either into or out of the canal. The lowest water depth is at where the canal enters the point of land on the chart. He explained that at low tide the tow captains wait for a rising tide to pass this point with a loaded barge, but for a 4.5 ft draft this should be no problem. This anchorage appears to be easier access, deeper and less distance than either going up the Crystal River or to Yankeetown but of course is still only an anchorage. Chuck and Barbara Ganem M/V “Gold Watch”
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Comments from Cruisers (3)
Ronald Longman- August 4, 2019 - 11:44 am
As you get close to the non-operational lock the Withlacoochee river comes in from the south. Good depth up to within a 1/4 mile of the dam and spillway. There is no boat access to the Lake. Strong current in this part of the river.. The Withlacoochee is blocked on the north side as it is fed by another spillway on the north side of the lock. I have done both sides of the lock in my 11' Zodiac. Depth is good all the way from the Gulf to the lock.
I am wondering how far up the canal you can go. Can you go all the way up to the locks and is there any way to get past them going a different way around them?
Does anyone know how far that you can go up the canal? I heard that there’s a fresh water lake off to the east to anchor in. I have a 38’ Sea Ray and am curious about the depth all the way up. Thank you, TJ
Whether you want to revisit the past, satisfy your curiosities, discover the arts or explore your true nature, you can do it from the heart of the Inner Banks – Washington, North Carolina. Washington City Docks, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, has proven to be well worth the journey up the beautiful Pamlico River! Our thanks to Bob McLeran for theses good words.
Little Washington is a little out of the way for cruisers on the ICW, but it is absolutely worth the short detour to spend a few days in this very hospitable village on the Pamlico River. Super-easy entry to docks, several nice restaurants to choose from, and the towns-people couldn’t be more helpful and friendly. It’s really a don’t miss stop. Bob McLeran
Our thanks to SOUTHWINDS , to Director Haymans and to James Newsome for this interview following the June 15 public meeting with the GADNR re HB 201.
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Comments from Cruisers (1)
Jim Healy- August 2, 2019 - 1:42 pm
I'm befuddled and disappointed. After this HB201 issue surfaced to public attention, several emails and forum posts circulated. Post authors and quotees like Amy Thurman, Charlie Waller (GAMBA) and Jack White all indicated they had not been consulted as HB201 moved through the legislature. How is it now possible for Doug Haymans to have such a different perspective? How can he assert that GAMBA was involved when both the president and the executive director said they were not? There is obviously something wrong here. Perhaps someone can clear it up for me? Doesn't feel right.
New Bern Grand Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, lies in the heart of downtown New Bern, North Carolina, along Trent River’s northern banks between Trent River highway and railroad bridges.
At the intersection of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the Okeechobee Waterway, Martin County, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is a hub of boating activity and of events of interest to boaters.
Are you an adventurous traveler? A beach bum? A parent looking for a little family fun? You can do it all in Martin County, FL. To help you get started, check out our favorite activities tailored to each specific kind of traveler. Indulge yourself in the natural tranquility of Martin County, FL
WHICH ITINERARY IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Eco-Adventure
Come to Martin County to visit the most bio-diverse lagoon ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon, The St. Lucie Inlet is also the most bio-diverse estuary in North America.
This unique ecosystem provides a habitat for over 4,300 species of plants and animals, including more than 30 threatened and endangered species like manatees, Florida scrub jay, wood storks, sandhill cranes, and peregrine falcons.
Gone Fishin’
Known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” Stuart is home to fabulous fishing year-round. Prefer a deep-sea adventure? Martin County’s shores have numerous thriving reefs offering a bounty of rich aquatic life. The reefs are great places for both saltwater anglers and recreational divers.
Martin County’s Artificial Reef Program also offers over 100 outstanding sites for fishing and exploratory diving. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy world-class fishing within a 10-mile radius of the St. Lucie Inlet.
Hit The Beach
Locals and tourists agree: Martin County’s quaint beaches are the perfect place to disconnect. With miles and miles of peaceful, uncrowded shoreline, beautifully clear water, and natural sand dunes, Martin County is the perfect place to get your beachside fix.
Enjoy the wide, open beaches and tons of activities available to visitors. Go ahead and turn off your cell phone, soak up the sun, and experience the incredible ambiance of an Old Florida beach.
Hiking & Biking
The parks in Martin County, FL are filled with natural Florida terrain. With ocean-side and lakeside trails, preserve woodlands, and wildlife parks for hikers and bikers, there’s a natural spot for everyone. Watch the many colorful species of birds fly overhead or just relax in one of the many parks.
For a true timeout, head to one of Martin County’s campgrounds and enjoy pristine, naturally-landscaped campgrounds. They’re conveniently situated near many of Martin County’s best natural amenities, and offer campers a variety of camping sites.
Art & History
The legacy of old Florida art and history lives on in Martin County, where arts and culture embody quintessential classic Florida. Dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and historical preservation are an integral part of the community, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy each every week. Catch a show at downtown Stuart’s historic Lyric Theatre, a former silent movie house of the 1920’s. Be sure to visit one the many historical landmarks that make Martin County truly a one of a kind destination!
Farm to Table
Get to know the soil in Martin County by checking out the agritourism itinerary: Dine on farm to table delights, tour sustainable farms, or ride miles of trails horseback across the beautiful countryside. Get ready to taste fish fresh off the boat, cheese milked from the goat in the adjoining field, and greens straight from the ground near your feet: Martin County’s rich dining is undeniable fresh and local. Take some time to see where all the amazing food is produced.
4 Days of Fun
Want to try a little of everything and experience all Martin County, FL has to offer? Then check out our Four Days of Fun itinerary. From where to stay to what to eat to the best activities to participate in, this itinerary has you covered! Take a boat tour in a private catamaran, eat dinner at Twisted Tuna which serves everything from sushi to pizza, and visit the House of Refuge, built in 1876. There’s so much to do!
You’re in our family. Now let’s be friends.
Now that you’re a part of the Discover Martin County family, let’s be friends!
Our social media channels are constantly being updated with cool events, and some pretty interesting behind the scenes coverage. Join the conversation so you don’t miss a thing!
Here is where you can find us:
While we love communicating with you via email, we would hate clogging up your inbox everytime we publish a new article, find an amazing vacation deal, or want to share one of fantastic pictures.
So, if you’d like to get to know Martin County, let’s be friends.
At the intersection of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the Okeechobee Waterway, Martin County, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is a hub of boating activity and of events of interest to boaters.
Imagine a place…
Where warm waters meet perfect waves. Where soft sand beaches play backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and snapshots. Where the great outdoors still feels natural, and time isn’t the only thing that’s preserved.
Good news: you don’t have to imagine.
We’re glad you are here. Stay turned for regular updates from Martin County. We can’t wait for you to visit.
Happy travels,
Discover Martin County
GET STARTED WITH OUR MOST POPULAR ITINERARIES
Eco-Adventure
Beaches
Parks
Dive In
Now that you’re a part of the Discover Martin County family, let’s be friends!
Our social media channels are constantly being updated with cool events, and some pretty interesting behind the scenes coverage. Join the conversation so you don’t miss a thing!
Here is where you can find us:
While we love communicating with you via email, we would hate clogging up your inbox everytime we publish a new article, find an amazing vacation deal, or want to share one of fantastic pictures.
So, if you’d like to get to know Martin County, let’s be friends.
Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.
The Coast Guard doing what they do so well. Kudos Coast Guard!
Coast Guard Station Pensacola responds to vessel on fire
Coast Guard Station Pensacola assisted Orange Beach Fire Department
Editors’ Note: Click on images to download high resolution version of photos, as well as to view video
NEW ORLEANS — The Coast Guard responded to a vessel that caught fire approximately 4 nautical miles south of Perdido Pass, Alabama, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Mobile received a report at approximately 2 p.m. that the charter vessel Hoss Fly III was on fire off the coast of Perdido Pass.
All eight passengers aboard were transferred to a good Samaritan vessel. There were no injuries reported.
Sector watchstanders directed the launch of a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Coast Guard Station Pensacola to assist Orange County Fire Department in the response.
The crew arrived on scene at 2:30 p.m., and the fire was declared extinguished at 2:49 p.m.
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