Cruisers Net Salutes All Veterans
Cruisers Net salutes and sends thanks for all the men and women who have served and who are serving in our Armed Forces to keep this country free.
Click Here for National Salute to Veterans – PBS
CRUISERS NET
Cruisers Helping Cruisers
Comprehensive cruising resource for the Intracoastal Waterways
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
FREE to use due to the generosity of our sponsors - please patronize them
Boats and More Boats, State Park Welcome Center Dock, Dismal Swamp Canal Route
Looks like a record number of boats rafted up at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center Docks. Area information is provided at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR and a NC DOT Rest Area facility, located adjacent to the Dismal Swamp State Park, offering trails, exhibits and ongoing programs in Camden County, NC. See November Programs at Dismal Swamp State Park, AICW Alternate Route.
We are not back to normal numbers, but after being closed for so long, it has been so nice to host boaters again in the Dismal Swamp Canal. This photo was taken by Jeff Byrd for Camden TDA at the end of October. We are enjoying meeting traffic by waterway again and we have talked to a lot of great people! Sigh!
Donna Stewart, Director
Dismal Swamp Welcome Center
2356 US Hwy 17N
South Mills, NC 27976
Phone – 252-771-8333
www.DismalSwampWelcomeCenter.comBird, Bike, Hike…..take in the sights!
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The Cost of Cruising – Part 1 – Ongoing Maintenance by Bill Parlatore
Our thanks to Bill Parlatore for permitting Cruisers Net to post articles from his excellent blog, Following Seas.
The Cost of Cruising – Part 1 – Ongoing Maintenance
We start a new series that explores the cost of cruising. No matter what boat you own, there are certain expenses you will incur on an annual basis for maintenance. These are important to keep the boat cruise worthy. But how much should one plan to spend?
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Praise for St. Petersburg Municipal Marina and Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, West Florida
St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is a great liveaboard marina located on the western shore of Tampa Bay in downtown St. Pete. Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina, also A CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR and voted Best Small Marina in 2017, overlooks the westerly banks of the Mantanzas Pass channel, west of marker #13. These good words for St. Pete Municipal Marina and Pink Shell Resort Marina are from Dan Sherburn as posted on AGLCA’s Forum.
I second the St Pete Municipal. Great marina and close to downtown. Great stop. I also enjoyed Pink Shell (Ft Myers) and Tarpon Point (resort like marina in Cape Coral).
Dan SherburnClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of St. Petersburg Municipal Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Pink Shell Beach Resort and Marina
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Excellent Report from Dunedin, FL, GICW Statute Miles 139 and 142
Our thanks to Ron and Jan Matuska for this excellent report from their West Florida port, Dunedin FL, as posted on AGLCA’s Forum. Dunedin lies between Clearwater and Tarpon Springs.
Welcome to Delightful Dunedin, FL
From your Harbor Hosts: Ron & Jan Matuska
Your best marina choices for Dunedin include Dunedin Municipal Marina (limited docking), Marker 1 Marina (limited docking due to construction ending December 2018), Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, and Caladesi Island. There are several anchorages in St. Joseph Sound across from Dunedin. Info for these may be found on Waterway Guide or Active Captain. Contact me directly for the recommended ICW track into Caladesi, track from Hurricane Pass is not recommended.Everything you need to know about Dunedin can be found on their web site at https://www.dunedingov.com/live-work-play
For getting around, we have the Jolly Trolley and the Pinellas Trail. Both connect Clearwater – Dunedin – Tarpon Springs. New this year is the Clearwater – Dunedin ferry.
Several other “new” to Dunedin items to mention; new restaurants, new shopping including Nature’s Food Patch market & deli, new breweries (see the Brewery Tour, if wine is your preference check out Sterling Wine on Main St.) Be sure to check the calendar of events for special events and music. See the web page listed above.
Ron & Jan Matuska
AGLCA & MTOA Harbor Hosts, Dunedin FL
AGLCA #8079Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Marker One Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Marker One Marina
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Warning of Dangerous Toxin in Reef Fish
If it’s not one thing, it’s another. It is difficult to know what to safely eat these days! Reef fish include barracuda, grouper and snapper.
FGCU researchers warn of ciguatera, a dangerous toxin found in reef fish
Wink NewsComments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Jonathan
Ciguatera has been around forever, but never has gotten the attention it deserves. Definitely something for cruisers who fish to keep in mind in tropical waters. It seems the species to avoid can be different in different areas – in the Bahamas, Nassau Groupers are generally regarded as fairly safe, while Tiger Groupers have a very bad reputation. In the Bahamas, hogfish seem to be pretty safe, but in Puerto Rico, hogfish are avoided. Barracuda are suspect everywhere. About the only general rule is the larger the individual fish within a species, the more likely it is to carry Ciguatera.
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The 5 Best Scenic Drives in Martin County, Stuart, FL
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. Now, rent a car and enjoy these scenic drives!
November 2018Getting in touch with nature can revive your mind, body and soul. What better place to reconnect with the great outdoors than Martin County – a wonderland of hiking trails, state parks and more?
How to Have a Fun and Frugal Martin County Getaway
Traveling may not be the least expensive hobby out there, but it’s one that has numerous benefits. Not only do you get to see new sights and sounds, but you also have an opportunity to step away from work and personal responsibilities, which can help you tackle these more efficiently upon your return. Keep reading for helpful tips and advice on how to enjoy a few days away without putting your adventures on credit.Located in the heart of Martin County, Stuart’s historic downtown is bustling to the brim with activities and fun. Whether you’re looking for a girls trip, a family getaway or a cultural experience, downtown Stuart has something for everyone.
Discover Florida’s Treasure Coast
The Treasure Coast is where your perfect vacation lives. It’s the kind of culturally vibrant yet laid-back getaway that provides you the opportunity to escape responsibilities, do the things you “don’t have time for anymore” and reconnect with your loved ones by making unforgettable memories.
Soak up the south Florida scenery on a peaceful drive along Martin County’s most scenic roads.
For more beautiful Martin County photography, follow us on Instagram. Share your photos with #DiscoverMartin and #ProtectOurParadise for the chance to be featured in our new eNewsletter.
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Monday Minute – Following Seas, Movie of Awahnee by Bill Parlatore
Our thanks to Bill Parlatore for permitting Cruisers Net to post articles from his excellent blog, Following Seas.
Monday Minute – Following Seas, Movie of Awahnee
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Post Michael Status of Northern Gulf Marinas
Despite the tremendous onshore damage from hurricane Michael, life on the Waterway continues with cruisers feeling their through the area; see Post Michael Report. Team member, Winston Fowler, has been on the phone attempting to reach marinas in the Northern Gulf following the storm. These are the results of his efforts. We encourage all who are in the region to send us condition reports as you are able. We will update as more information is received.
Dog River Marina, Mobile, AL – fully operational
Homeport Marina, Gulf Shores, AL – all okay, but call before arriving to make sure space available. Many boats staying put longer than expected
Turner Marine and Yacht Sales, Mobile, AL – fully operational
Yacht Harbor Marina, Warrington, FL – no report yet
Pensacola -My Notes: Seems most everything in and around Pensacola is okay
Palafox Pier Marina, Pensacola, FL – fully operational
Baylen Slips Marina, Pensacola, Fl – fully operational
Seville Harbour Marina Pensacola, FL – fully operational
Holiday Harbor Marina, Pensacola, FL – fully operational
Sandestin’s Baytowne Marina, FL – fully operational but have many vessels from Panama City area that moved before storm, so do call or make a reservation before coming in tele: 850-267-7773
Harbor Walk Marina, Destin, FL – fully operational
Two Georges Marina, (old Shalimar Yacht Basin) Shalimar, Fl – Fully operational
St Andrews Marina – closed
Panama City Marina – Closed.. Our marina was completely destroyed. St. Andrews was badly damaged and not operating now. Questions? My cell is 850-819-5592.
Onsite Report: Panama City Marina
Report from Panama CityBay Point Marina, Panama City Beach, FL……could not reach, heard from another harbormaster that they are going to demolish and completely rebuild
Port St.Joe Marina, could not reach, heard from another harbormaster, that they may also completely rebuild
Sun Harbor Marina, Panama City, FL – could not reach
C-Quarters Marina, Carrabelle, FL – Capt. Kim says they sustained damage but are trying to fix things daily. Very limited at the moment. Call or email to determine status before stopping by. Tele: 850-519-694
See update: https://cruisersnet.net/177754
11/5 Still no fuel pumps or dinghy dock inspection, and they fear it may be another week. Will check with them next Monday. Those pumps were supposed to be delivered last week.Moorings of Carrabelle, Carrabelle, FL …one pump running for diesel and one for gas; cash only for small purchases, can do manual credit for large fuel purchases, some docks damaged but if you call ahead they may be able to help and schedule you for services,866-821-2248 See update: https://cruisersnet.net/177754
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Report from Panama City, FL GIWW Statute Mile 290
Panama City, on the eastern shore of St. Andrews Bay northeast of Mexico Beach where Hurricane Michael made landfall, suffered devastating damage from Michael. Panama City Marina and St. Andrews Marina are both CRUISERS NET SPONSORS and our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to all in the area who sustained losses. Our thanks to Rich Gano for this report.
Panama City as a stop along the way for loopers is pretty much done for by Michael. The two city marinas are disaster zones and will be a long time recovering. Most businesses are out of action due to damage, loss of power,
and loss of employees who have fled the area. The ports to the east of Panama City like Port St Joe and Apalachicola got it even worse that PC. Plan on having enough food and fuel to bypass this area.
Rich Gano
Photo from Seven Seas Cruising Association
Click Here To View the Northern Gulf Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Panama City Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Panama City Marina
Click Here To View the Northern Gulf Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For St. Andrews Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of St. Andrews Marina
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Comments from Cruisers (3)
- Reply to Lisa
Please check with us in Carrabelle! If you need someone on the ground to check with the marinas I am happy to help.
- Reply to Cruisers'
Thanks for the update Randy. All the very best.
- Reply to Randy
He is correct except Apalachicola. They are now operational and have fuel. Don’t expect available slips however. On the hook only.
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Carrabelle Marina Report, Northern Gulf, GIWW 376
Our thanks to Lisa Keith-Lucas for this onsite marina report from Carrabelle, FL. Note Lisa’s caution from local captains re debris in channels.
Carrabelle Marina Report
The Moorings of Carrabelle
Slips available, water, 30/50 amps, showers.
Diesel $3.09 today (11/3) gas not yet available.
Pump out being repaired, and will updateCable and WiFi is not yet working, but football fans need not worry, as the cable works in the Captain’s lounge. Free breakfast daily 6:30 to 9:30. WiFi at public library a 15 min walk from marina.
$1.50 /ft/night, $1.00/ft for those flying the Looper flag and with purchase of 100 gal fuel.
850-697-2800
Click Here To View the Northern Gulf Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For The Moorings of CarrabelleClick Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of The Moorings
C-Quarters
Some slips now open, with 30/50 amp , water and WiFi. Cable intermittent.
Ship’s store on site. Dinghy dock awaiting insurance sign off (update Monday 11/5). New fuel pumps on the way, will update 11/5.
Showers and laundry
$1.00+ tax /ft/night.850-697-8400
850-519-6943Click Here To View the Northern Gulf Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For C-Quarters
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of C-Quarters
There is debris in the water everywhere; local captains urge caution in all waters. No reported changes in channels, but call the local Towboat US captain at 850-697-8909 for information about local waters.
Unofficial report second hand from Scipio Creek Marina in Apalachicola says they are open but have no phones and can be reached via active captain. They apparently have diesel (confirmed, see https://cruisersnet.net/177741). Will get an update over the weekend.
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Lisa
If you arrive in Carrabelle and need assistance, please call Lisa at 931-636-2145 or email at lkeithlucas@gmail.com. We can also help you with a car (okay, not a car, but an ancient, ugly but reliable Ford Ranger pickup) if you need access to goods and services outside of the immediate area.
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Fuel Available at Scipio Creek Marina, Apalachicola, FL
Our thanks to Robert Austin for this fuel update from the Northern Gulf. Scipio Creek Marina is on the GIWW north of the John Gorrie Memorial Bridge.
Marc Grove of Wefing’s Marine reports that fuel is available at Scipio Creek Marina in Apalachicola.
Bob Austin, PensacolaScipio Creek Marina and Boatyard
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Update on St Augustine Inlet, near AICW Statute Mile 776
St Augustine inlet is always subject to channel shifting and almost continual dredging is SOP. These reports from various contributors are from Bob423 Facebook page.
How is the St. Augustine inlet these days? We heard from someone who said they were advised not to use it. We are preparing to head that way. It was fine when we left there in the Spring. Just the ever-present dredge. Lots of weather since then, though.
Rich ReavisThe inlet is fantastic. Stay in between the buoys , you’re golden
John CunninghamWe came in Wednesday night. No problems other than the usual unlit buoys.
Sherry MatasThere is no dredge there now is there? It was a fixture over last winter. Definitely shooting for daytime entry.
Rich ReavisIt’s fine. Just stay within the Buoys. At least 23’ depth in the middle.
Kelli Koleilat MeachamClick Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of St. Augustine Inlet
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Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Perry
Call SeaTow or BOATUS and ask for current conditions before entering.
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