North Carolina’s Pamlico Sound draws anglers from throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic in August. Why? For a fishing experience like no other. It’s that time of year when adult red drum migrate into Pamlico Sound in large numbers to spawn.
Red drum, also known as channel bass, include the nicknames “old drum” and “bull drum” because they can live to be 50 years in age, grow to lengths of more than 40 inches and weigh from 35 to 90 pounds. The bull red drum is one of the most exciting fish to catch, and many of the fishing guides believe the best time to catch bull drum is after the sun sets.
Guides around Pamlico Sound launch late in the evening for an unforgettable nighttime fishing experience. Red drum actively spawn in the Sound in August, so care is required in gear selection and catch-and-release techniques (especially with the largest bulls) to ensure they live to spawn another generation.
An important note for anglers in South Carolina is to be aware that the State has instituted new catch limits that took effect July 1, 2018: “A person may not have in possession more than two red drum in any one day, not to exceed six red drum in any one day on any boat.”
Always consult local fishing regulations in the area where you fish. Coastal conservation associations provide valuable information about red drum fishing in the southeast coastal states.
In North Carolina, check online at ccanc.org, and in South Carolina, check ccasouthcarolina.com
By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating August 2018
More about Pamlico Sound:
The Pamlico Sound is the largest sound on the East Coast. A “sound” is a regional term for a saltwater lagoon. Approximately 80 miles long and a 20 miles wide, the Pamlico Sound comprises the majority of the western Outer Banks coastline. That includes Whalehead Junction at the edge of Bodie Island all the way to Portsmouth Island.
Get a bayside look at the Blue Angels in Myrtle Beach
The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels will lead an amazing group of precision flying demonstrations over Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, April 28-29. Boaters docked at any of Myrtle Beach’s Waterway marinas will be right under the action. In addition to the exciting Blue Angel’s performances, watch the flying skills of the U.S. Marine Corp C-130 Fat Albert, the U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demo Team and more.
Enjoy paratroopers landing on the beach with the Para-Commandos from the U.S. Special Operations Command’s premier aerial parachute demonstration team. Not only do attendees get to watch the Blue Angels in Myrtle Beach, but the vintage flying program allows thrill-seeking folks to become part of the action with actual flights in historic planes like the P-51 Mustang or the rare World War II hero, the SBD-5 Dauntless.
Live well and savor a luxury cruising weekend in South Carolina’s Palmetto Bluff.
The region known as the South Carolina Lowcountry designates a certain geographical area in the southeastern part of the state, but the term also conveys the specific culture, history, and traditions indigenous to the area. Many visitors from other parts of the country, including this former Midwesterner, have preconceived ideas about the South. Mine were limited to notions about “southern hospitality,” foods like grits or collard greens, and Spanish moss hanging from oak trees. With the exception of images of southern plantations, my impressions of the South did not include anything related to luxury.
Soon after arriving at Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, South Carolina, however, I got a sense of my lack of understanding about almost anything southern. Travel has a tendency to do that for a person. During three days of southern immersion, my initial suspicion grew to a full realization of my inexperience, and when I finally arrived at the inevitable state of acceptance, my former unfamiliarity was replaced with a warm fondness—dare I say “love”—for the Lowcountry.
Six hotel and resort properties comprise the Montage Collection, an ultraluxury hotel and resort management company founded in 2002 that serves affluent travelers and provides the utmost level of service (montagehotels.com). In addition to the newest location, Montage Palmetto Bluff, the five other properties are in Beverly Hills and Laguna Beach, California; Park City, Utah; Kapalua, Hawaii and Los Cabos, Mexico. All of the properties
exude a comfortable elegance, yet each is designed to not only reflect the individuality of its surroundings but to protect it. Palmetto Bluff’s setting along the May River between Hilton Head Island and Savannah encompasses 20,000 acres, more than half of which are committed to the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy as a nature preserve and will never be
developed. Furthermore, an archaeologist is on staff for the purpose of preserving the property’s botanical and historical integrity.
The list of former owners of the land where Palmetto Bluff is situated is lengthy and includes the Wilsons, whose vision was to build a luxury estate that would offer the very best of living at that time. Unfortunately, their 72-room mansion burned to the ground in 1926. In keeping with the previous owners’ dreams, Palmetto Bluff was designed as a charming southern village that offers the best service imaginable. Indeed, RT’s Market, a general store, will order residents’ favorite items so that they’re available for purchase
during their seasonal stays. The village includes a waterside chapel overlooking the May River, an ideal setting for intimate weddings. Single-story, two-to-five bedroom homes line lantern-lit streets, where the preferred mode of transportation is by bicycle. Home ownership with the Montage Branded Residences includes all the amenities of the 200-guest hotel and club, including concierge service and housekeeping and fulfills just about any request you can think of.
Cruisers would do well to make marina and hotel reservations for a long overdue, long weekend of pampering or more active options; there’s no shortage of ways to fill your time here. Wilson Landing on the May River—a certified South Carolina Clean Marina—offers five docks, dry-dock storage for 80 members’ boats, a boat ramp, and a storage yard. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are also available for rental. For a real treat, leave your boat at the dock and arrange for a leisurely sunset cruise on May River aboard the beautifully restored, resort-owned, antique yacht GRACE.
Built in 2004, the May River Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus Signature design. Like the rest of the property, the course has been integrated into the environment to be unobtrusive.
There’s no gaudy signage to muck up the landscape, and old-time wooden rakes are placed at sand traps. The course is so serene and natural that a nesting pair of bald eagles are permanent residents on hole No. 15. The Palmetto Shooting Club is a popular with residents and guests to test their sharp-shooting skill with clay targets, while tennis, bocce and croquet are available at Wilson Lawn and Racquet Club. The Club offers many sitting areas for family and friends so they can be part of the activity sans the skill or sweat. Afterward, satiate your appetite at seven dining options, or retire to your quiet guest room and enjoy private, in-room dining with 24-hour service. Wine director Jesse Rodriguez will even provide wine pairings with your menu selection.
With so many options on property, you’ll be hard-pressed to run out of things to do, but the village of Bluffton and its historic shops on Calhoun Street are worth a look-see. Take
advantage of the town’s bike taxi for a narrated tour, and then get a bite at Farm, a popular eatery for its inventive and ever-changing menu using locally sourced ingredients.
No weekend at Montage Palmetto Bluff would be complete without partaking in at least one of the resort’s traditions. “Porching” in the afternoons is just as it sounds: You sit
on the porch at River House, drink tea or lemonade and enjoy conversation—simple as that, daily at 3:30. Evenings are done right with kids and adults roasting marshmallows
for s’mores from 7 to 9PM. But one of the most popular traditions is enjoyment of Montage Palmetto Bluff’s signature drink, Artillery Punch, which should be imbibed
by adults only. (Beverage manager Ross Hardigan got the recipe from his grandmother.)
No visit to a resort of this caliber is complete without one of the many indigenous treatments or therapies offered in the 13,000-square-foot Spa Montage. Enjoy a Deluxe
Caviar Facial, Lavender Body Treatment or Palmetto Body Bliss Massage for ultra-deep relaxation. No matter what you choose, it’s a perfect way to end a long weekend at
Montage Palmetto Bluff—immersed in luxury and loving the Lowcountry. montagehotels.com/palmettobluff
GRACE
This antique yacht was built in 1913 by the New York Yacht, Launch & Engine Company of Morris Heights, New York, for Joseph B. Cousins. Cousins used it on Long Island Sound and the East and Hudson Rivers with his family. Grace is one of the few remaining gas-powered yachts built before World War I. She was then owned by a number of interesting people, including James Adams, who owned the James Adams Floating Theater. The vessel sunk in 1941 in Thunderbolt, Georgia, but was later recovered and managed well until the late 1970s, when she was abandoned. Palmetto Bluff acquired her in 2004 and named her after the sister of R.T. Wilson, Jr., who purchased Palmetto Bluff in 1902. Grace lived at Palmetto Bluff for a time and married Cornelius “Neely” Vanderbilt III, and she hosted many parties for charity each year in New York and Newport.
LOA: 60′ LWL: 52.5′ Beam: 12.1′ Draft: 3’6″ Capacity: 24 guests, plus crew Engine (Original): 4-cylinder, 50-hp 20th Century gasoline marine engine Engine (Present): Caterpillar 3116, 350-hp diesel marine engine Cruise/Top Speed: 10.1/12.8 knots Year Built: 1913 Rebuilt: 1996 Current Restoration: Commenced in 2004
Cruiser Resources
Wilson Landing Marina
31 Boat House St.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 706-2757
The Southeast Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) brings water, wildlife, and outdoor enthusiasts together.
Water, wildlife, and outdoor enthusiasts gather in Charleston, South Carolina, over Presidents’ Day weekend February 16-18 for the biggest outdoor sporting event of its kind in the U.S. The Southeast Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), now in its 36th year, promotes the preservation of wildlife and nature conservation. From a modest beginning of 100 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees, the event has grown to over 300 exhibitors and 40,000 attendees. SEWE holds over 70 events across 5 venues, including dock dogs sporting water trials, thrilling birds of prey flight demonstrations, retriever events, and waterfowl decoy auctions. Artists and vendors attend from every state in the U.S. and internationally from seven nations.
SEWE’s Sporting Village hosts exhibitors showing the latest from outdoor outfitters, boats, and equipment. Fishing, hunting, and outdoor guides will have retriever demonstrations,
fly fishing, fly-tying, and cast net tossing instruction by local experts. Attending SEWE also supports their mission to provide educational opportunities and in-school programs that connect children to the power of the outdoors.
Through art, nature, and science outreach programs, SEWE helps children learn about the exciting outdoor world and the importance of protecting and preserving it forever. If all of this isn’t enough reason to attend, attendees have a chance to win a 2018 Scout 195 Sportfish boat donated by Scout Boats and Ducks Unlimited. Raffle tickets for a chance to win the boat are $100, and only 600 tickets will be sold.
What’s on your coastal city wish list? There is something inexplicably better about a city on the water. It could be the scenic views or the attitudes of the locals or it could be the access to boating.
I’ve been lucky to travel to a lot of coastal cities. That’s in part because I grew up on a tiny island, went to college in a coastal city (Go Seahawks!), and worked as a stewardess on a yacht that cruised the ICW from Annapolis to Miami, and then had the opportunity to work in The Bahamas. I got a pretty good head start on the coastal city circuit!
But there are more cities I dream of visiting. I still get the stunned, chin-on-the-floor look from most when I say I’ve never been to Charleston, SC. That look is usually followed up with a “What? You have to go!”
Where else do I have to go? Let me know in the comments.
Seattle, Washington What I’ve heard: Eco-friendly, scenic and very boater-friendly. Bring a raincoat. Go fishing or at least eat some salmon.
Charleston, South Carolina What I’ve heard: “You haven’t been to Charleston? It’s beautiful and so charming! It’s the perfect Southern city! You have to go. You have to GO!” …and so on and so on forever.
Captiva Island, Florida What I’ve heard: Apparently no stoplights to see, but some of the best fishing and boating in the state of Florida. Boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. I also heard it’s physically impossible to leave without a souvenir shell.
Galveston, Texas What I’ve heard: Rife with retro amusements, historic houses, and spectacular fishing. There’s also a museum that created from an older offshore drilling rig—that has to be a must-see.
Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin What I’ve heard: Go in the summer because you’ll eventually get hot enough to dip your feet in the clearest water you’ve ever seen. Also cheese curds. Did I mention cheese curds? I <3 cheese.
I know there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of coastal cities I’m missing. What’s on your coastal city wishlist? Tell us in the comments— you could win a bottle of Oak & Cane rum!
Summer is fishing tournament season along the Southeast Seaboard, and there is no better place to enjoy the action than in Charleston, South Carolina. The Governor’s Cup Billfishing Series continues in July with two great events: The MegaDock and Edisto Invitational tournaments. For a spectator, the MegaDock Tournament is unlike any other. Charleston’s City Marina has the largest and busiest transient boating facility on the U.S. East Coast, with more than 1,500 feet of floating dock space. Imagine both sides of that lined up bow to stern with the most impressive sportfishing boats in the world and you get billfishing’s grandest arena. Nowhere else can family and friends get this close to the action. Everyone can gather each evening on the docks to watch as the boats return with their daily prize catches. Participants may fi sh two out of the three days from July 6-8. Event details are at megadocktournament.com.
The fishing action moves to The Marina at Edisto Beach for the Governor’s Cup final event, Wednesday, July 19th to Saturday, July 22nd. Captains may run their boats two of the three days from Thursday to Saturday. The scales are open for weigh-in Thursday and Friday from 5PM to 8PM and Saturday from 5PM to 7PM. Spectators are invited to watch the weigh-in and stay for the tournament awards presented Saturday at 8:30PM. Detailed information is available at themarinaeb.com/edisto-invitational-billfish-tournament.
Sailors will be hoping for fresh winds through the low country this April when the 21st Annual Charleston Race Week returns to Charleston Harbor in South Carolina.
When the Charleston Ocean Racing Association merged their annual summer regatta with the Charleston Palmetto Cup—run by the South Atlantic Yacht Racing Association—they couldn’t have dreamed it would grow into an international event and one of the largest keelboat regattas in the world. At print time, more than 120 boats from the U.S., Canada and Europe were registered to participate.
The annual summer event was rescheduled to its current dates in April in order to take advantage of the seasonal sea breezes. The combination of traditional southeast winds working against the tidal flow in Charleston Harbor make for exciting racing for both sailors and spectators.
Registration and racecourse reviews begin on April 20th, with races running from April 21st through the 23rd. For spectators, inshore races take place in the South Passage of Charleston’s Harbor between James Island and Shutes Folly. Ocean boats will compete offshore of Morris Island just south of Charleston’s entrance channel. All shoreside activities are at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina located at Patriot’s Point in Mt. Pleasant. In addition to hosting a world-class event, Charleston Race Week donates a portion of their proceeds to eight individual charities and organizations including Veterans on Deck and Charleston Community Sailing.
Sailfish Resort and Marina on Singer Island, Florida, is hosting Operation Sailfish, the opening event of the popular “Quest for the Crest” series of fishing tournaments. From December 7-11, fishing teams from around the region will be competing in this exciting catch-and-release competition. The best of the best will be going after an estimated $700,000 in prize money and the honor of having their team name stamped into the 2016 Operation Sailfish Dog Tag IDs. The Dog Tag IDs are part of the tournament’s military theme designed to honor those who serve in an armed service uniform. A portion of the proceeds from the tournament will be donated to “Operation Homefront,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial and other types of support to the families of military personnel and wounded warriors. bluewatermovements.com
Marlin Bay Yacht Club The Florida Keys, known for a diverse and eclectic blend of people and cultures, offer homes and boating communities to suit every taste and budget. Starting the last week of November, yachtsmen passing through the Keys will have a new place to call home. The Marlin Bay Yacht Club on Marathon Key will allow the first boats to tie up in their state-of-the-art, deep water marina. Palm Hill Inc. developed the club, and they’re also the owners of the award-winning River Dunes Marina and community in Oriental, North Carolina. Marlin Bay Yacht Club consists of a “99-slip marina, 10,000-square-foot, two-story clubhouse, lagoon-style pool with pavilion and bar, and a 12,000-square-foot harbormaster facility”. In addition to the marina, the community is offering 84 single-family, luxury residences. marlinbay.com
‘Tis the season Very few holiday light displays have achieved both national and international acclaim, and we are fortunate to have two of them in our southeast coastal communities. Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights features more than lights. On display are handmade, holiday-themed sand sculptures, a Victorian carousel and a holiday train ride. The festival has been recognized as “One of the Top 10 Holiday Celebrations” and will run from November
Festive lights illuminate a Charleston bridge. Photo credit: Bluewater Movements
11th until January 1st. The display is located at James Island County Park. ccrpc.com
Shelter Cove Towne Centre, nestled in the center of Hilton Head Island, lights up the night throughout the holiday season with the Dove Street Festival of Lights. For more than 20 years, Shelter Cove has brought holiday spirit along with nightly entertainment to this popular village center and all for a good cause. According to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre website, The Dove Street Festival of Lights has raised over $120,000 in cash for nonprofits, provided more than 40,000 cans of food for needy families and given 20,000 presents to kids in need. The festival has even been recognized as one of the nation’s top holiday light displays and can be seen nightly from November 19th through December 31st from 6-10PM. sheltercovetownecentre.com
By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating Magazine December 2016
If you love oysters and a good time, The Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation near Charleston, South Carolina is the place to be on January 31st from 10AM until 5PM. Oyster shucking and oyster eating contests, live music, wine, domestic and imported beers, a children’s area, and a food court showcasing favorite local restaurants await. It claims to be the world’s largest oyster festival. boonehallplantation.com/annual_oyster_roast.php
Bluewater Yacht Sales moves to new location
Bluewater Yacht Sales of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, moved from a Marina Pierhouse office space to a new multi-story structure with a perfect view of ICW boat traffic and close proximity to Wrightsville Marina, Bluewater Grill restaurant and Highway 74’s eastbound traffic across the drawbridge. It is located at ICW MM 283.2.
Archeologists Parker Brooks, Jim Jobling and James Duff, examine a piece of casemate, made of railroad ties and timber, which served as the outer layer of armor for CSS Georgia.
Raising the CSS Georgia
The Confederate ironclad CSS Georgia that was scuttled by its crew to prevent capture in 1864 has been raised from the depth of the Savannah River one five-ton chunk at a time. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recovered cannons, 132 unexploded shells and 250,000 pounds of casemates (iron sidings) from the vessel. Recovery will help understand how ironclads were built in the South. “A lot of these ironclads are built by house carpenters—they’re not built by shipwrights,” said Jeff Seymour, historian and curator for the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, Georgia. The ship sank without ever firing a single shot in combat.
John Weller of Freedom Waters Foundation took a group of children with life-threatening illnesses on boat rides off Palm Beach.
“Weller Days”
Freedom Waters Foundation co-founder and Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based yacht broker John Weller recently took a group of children with life-threatening illnesses and their families on boat rides off Palm Beach, Florida. Manatee-watching, dancing and taking the helm of the renovated antique motor yacht Mariner III was a welcome relief from doctors, nurses and medications. Weller, a six-time cancer survivor, co-founded the charity 10 years ago to provide boating opportunities for children with disabilities and life-threatening illnesses, at-risk youth, veterans, and those with special needs. “Weller Days” was started in 2004 and has been a tradition ever since. “This is a getaway from reality,” says Weller. “And to be on a boat like this is something very, very special.”
North Carolina bridges in progress
Two new bridges are in the works in North Carolina. A high level fixed bridge to be completed in May 2017 is being constructed between Radio Island and Michael J. Field in Carteret County with waterway closures planned. It will have a vertical clearance of 65 feet above mean high water (MHW) with a horizontal clearance of 100 feet. Tugboats and barges are being used for in-water work. Construction vessels monitor VHF channel 13 for mariner communication. The Wilmington Bypass Bridge in Brunswick and New Hanover Counties is set for a vertical clearance of 64 feet above MHW and horizontal clearance of 160 feet upon completion in December. The channel remains open to navigation with work barges and structures along the shore.
By Nancy E. Spraker, Southern Boating Magazine January 2016
The all-new Scout 320 LXF is a forward-seating center console model with the Nu-V3 high-performance, fuel-saving hull design. Scout’s LXF Collection comprises luxury sportfish models that showcase a unique blending of high-performance fish boats with high-end cruisers. The 320 LXF features a head under the center console pod and comfortable seating in the bow. Aft of the helm seat is a combination galley and tackle station with freshwater sink and livewell, as well as rocket launchers built into the back of the seat.
Built at the Scout yard in Summerville, South Carolina, the 320 LXF measures 32 feet, 3 inches long and the maximum power are twin Yamaha 350-hp outboard engines. An interesting feature is the state-of-the-art C-Zone digital switching electronics system. It’s easier to service than conventional electronic systems and even comes with a remote key fob that allows you to program different electronics on the boat to power on or off with the touch of a single button.
The helm features a huge dash with room for two large MFDs, with the steering wheel for the driver to port. The throttle and shifters are in a comfortable position forward of a large helm seat that can be configured for either standing or sitting. Padded gunwales offer rod storage, and a host of storage boxes are built into the deck. (843) 821-0068; scoutboats.com
By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2014
On the Historic Banks of the Cooper River, tucked between Shem Creek and the USS Yorktown, lies a spirited oasis known as Charleston Harbor Marina. With 459 slips ranging in size from 33 to 66 feet, as well as Boat Lifts to 25 feet elevated, Charleston Harbor Marina stands as the largest in water marina in the state of South Carolina. Our premier facility is home port to the finest yachtsmen in the Carolinas, and with over 17,000 lineal feet of floating dock , is able to accommodate a large range of vessels to 120 feet. Whether sailing in the harbor, or just watching the wide array of Nature from our docks, there is beauty in every moment. Our inclusive amenities package will allow you to relax your mind, explore your imagination and indulge your senses. Come visit us at Charleston Harbor Marina and feel the difference provided by our world class staff.
Services & Amenities:
Our first-class marina offers amenities such as
•Resort style amenities
•24 hour service and security
•Laundry facilities
•Showers
•A sparkling blue pool located next to the private beach
•Jacuzzi
•Marine supply and delivery service
•Complimentary waste pump-out
•Access to our Mini Mariners Children’s Program
•The Reel Bar and the Indigo Grille on-site
•Two restaurants, dining service delivered to your boat
•Business center, meeting and special event space at discounted rates
•Internet service
•Transportation to historic Charleston via the resort trolley
•Water Taxi service to the historic district
•Discounted accommodations should you choose to get off the boat and head for land.
Simply stated… the Best Marina in the Carolinas. Our marina is a destination unto itself. While some marinas have the distinction of being in a great city and others have a great feel, we encompass both. Whether you are coming to Charleston to enjoy the historic charm or coming to our property to enjoy one of our specialty drinks by our harborside pool, we are what you had envisioned.
Fuel Dock:
We are available 24 hours a day for anything you may need, including fuel. Just call us on VHF channel 16, or the Marina Cell at 843-297-2949. Our office is open 7 days a week from 8am – 6pm. The phone number is 843-284-7062.
Please feel free to visit our marina office for any specific questions. We offer a full concierge service for your convenience. We’ll gladly help you get a rental car, make tee times, restaurant reservations, order boating supplies, and even deliver groceries to your boat.
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina
24 Patriots Point Road
Mt. Pleasant,
South Carolina 29464
(843) 284-7062 charlestonharbormarina.com
New owners purchased the historic River Forest Manor and Marina in Belhaven, North Carolina, in October with renovations in mind. Most of the new owners are cruisers and members of the River Rat and Belhaven Yacht Clubs. All docking facilities will be fully operational during improvements. Visitors will find new bathrooms with showers, marina office and free laundry facilities upon completion. Services already available include diesel and non-ethanol 89 octane gas, 30-, 50- and 100-amp electrical services, Wi-Fi, golf carts, deep water transient slips, and a swimming pool. Belhaven is the birthplace of the Intracoastal Waterway and boasts of several popular eateries. riverforestmarina.com, riverratyachtclub.com, belhavenyachtclub.org
Fernandina Beach, Florida, has been called the “birthplace of the modern shrimping industry.” In 1902, Sicilian Mike Salvador introduced motorized boats to the industry, and generations of the Greek Deonas family helped establish what was the largest shrimping industry in the world for decades. Although tourism now replaces shrimping, Amelia Island remembers its past with a new satellite museum of the Amelia Island Museum of History in Fernandina Beach. Hours are 10AM to 4PM Monday through Saturday, and 1PM to 4PM on Sundays. ameliamuseum.org
After Georgetown, South Carolina’s devastating fire in 2013, debris was cleared and Harborwalk was rebuilt, but little else has taken place due to new construction standards and lack of funds. After some controversy, however, in November 2014 the city applied for a Community Development Block Grant funding for business development purposes. Hopes are that the waterfront will return to its former glory this year.
Cruisers to St. Augustine, Florida, now have a shuttle bus service. The first of three bus routes takes visitors to St. Augustine Municipal Marina and other nearby marinas, Sailors Exchange, West Marine, and other businesses. Two other daytime runs stop at marinas, uptown St. Augustine, the Vilano Pier, Publix, restaurants, offices, and attractions. Evening routes accommodate area dining and entertainment. Updates are available at the St. Augustine Cruisers Net Facebook page. Schedule is available at waterwayguide.com/images/St-Augustine-Shuttle-SCHEDULE.pdf.
An official dog park now adjoins the Vero Beach Municipal Marina in Vero Beach, Florida. The 6.5-acre field is completely fenced in with separate areas for big and little dogs. Private donations and volunteer grunt work made the park with its water fountain, bowls and a safety entryway possible. Seadogs and their masters may access the park with dinghies.
The Miami International Boat Show is headed to Miami Marine Stadium in 2016 and 2017, and possibly into the future. A $30 million renovation is in store for the battered Miami Marine Stadium that closed after 1992 Hurricane Andrew. Changes include replacing asphalt with grass and trees, as well as building a modest marine-exhibit building. The boat show will occupy existing parking lots, temporary structures and a small portion of its water basin with little interference to local rowers and paddlers.
Free pump-outs in the Florida Keys may end in 2017. Monroe County is losing substantial financial support from the state Department of Environmental Protection. The county’s proof of pump-out requirement in larger live-aboard anchorages helps protect Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
October 18-19 marks Georgetown, South Carolina’s 25th Annual Georgetown Wooden Boat Show with 140 classic wooden boats displayed on land and water. Children’s model boatbuilding, knot tying, food, and music make it a not-to-miss event. In the Wooden Boat Challenge, teams of two have four hours to build rowing skiffs to compete in a rowing relay on the Sampit River. Funds raised support the South Carolina Maritime Museum. woodenboatshow.com
North Carolina mariner updates A fixed bridge will replace the Topsail Island Bridge near Wilmington, North Carolina, at mile 260.7 in the ICW. The existing drawbridge has a 13-foot vertical clearance closed and unlimited clearance opened, with a 92-foot horizontal clearance. The new fixed bridge will have a 65-foot vertical clearance closed with a 120-foot horizontal clearance. Date of construction is undetermined.
A mooring field in Beaufort, North Carolina, costs more than expected. More expensive bar anchors with better hold in less mud are being installed instead of the originally planned screw anchors. Total moorings are down to 41 from 46. Sixteen ready-and-able moorings now await transients in the bend of the Beaufort River.
Sailing on the Charleston Harbor. Photo: Explore Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina navigation news The original Charleston Harbor NOAA harbor chart 11523 from 1936 does not reflect changes from the deepening projects that have moved the sea buoy and channel entrance nine nautical miles to the east. However, the new NOAA chart 11525 includes these changes, plus an additional 345 square nautical miles. It is now available in paper format from NOAA-certified printing agents, a free PDF digital download, or a free raster navigational chart for electronic display systems with a corresponding electronic navigational chart US5SC25M.
Florida diver/snorkel flags Divers-down buoys now bob in Florida’s waters since state approval in July. The approved buoys must be three- or four-sided with divers-down symbols of at least 12-by-12 inches, and must be seen from all directions. Flags on a float are still permitted. Divers/snorkelers must stay within 300 feet of their flags or buoys in open water and 100 feet in rivers, inlets and channels. Boat operators should idle at the same distance away from flags or buoys. myfwc.com/news/news-releases/2014/july/01/divers-down/
Key West Bight Marina. Photo: Rob-O’Neal
The city of Key West renamed the Key West Bight to Key West Historic Seaport. Key West Historic Seaport has a 150-slip marina and is a great place to dive or snorkel, enjoy fresh seafood, shop, or take a high-speed ferry to Historic Fort Jefferson or the Dry Tortugas.
The St. Augustine Shipyard marina opens this month to provide mariners easy access to historic Old St. Augustine and the Atlantic. It accommodates boats up to 120 feet with more than 300 new slips. Dry storage handles boats up to 42-feet LOA weighing up to 35,000 pounds. Amenities include boat valet service, ship’s store and fuel, boat maintenance and repair service, free pump-outs, and a fish cleaning station. A pedestrian promenade with shops, restaurants and hotels is in the works. staugustineshipyard.com
The Yacht Club in Delray Beach will soon be a commercial marina. The 1960s yacht club gives way to a more contemporary nautical facility with 44 slips offering dockage up to 130 feet. Amenities include an Olympic swimming pool with tiki bar, free parking, a clubhouse, and full yacht services and maintenance. Accompanying residences offer waterfront living. theyachtclubatdelraybeach.com
Key Biscayne’s Crandon Park Marina. Photo: Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department
Key Biscayne’s Crandon Park Marina is newly improved. New charter boat docks, a seawall, and state-of-the-art access and security are welcome changes. An extended boardwalk, fender mooring piles, new power and water pedestals, and 10 new transient slips await visitors. New landscaping accentuates the enhancements. miamidade.gov/parks/crandon-marina.asp
Biscayne National Park’s Elliott Key features a newly built marina, campground and boardwalk accessible only by boat. The beautiful 36-slip marina is limited to very shoal-draft boats since it has no entry channel and 2½ feet mean low tide. Daytime visits are free. Overnight stays with a campsite cost $20. Weekdays are quieter. nps.gov/bisc/planyourvisit/elliottkey.html
Carolina Updates A Coast Guard-established temporary safety zone on the ICW at Morehead City, North Carolina, at mile 203.7 remains until April 2015. Maintenance to U.S. 70 Fixed Bridge requires a construction barge needing clearance. Two-hour notification to a work supervisor is only needed for horizontal clearance of more than 40 feet.
South Carolina needs reports and photos during “king tides” to assess storm damage during its highest seasonal tides. This year’s remaining “king tides” occur September 6-12, October 6-11 and November 5-8. mycoast.org.
The Marina at Grande Dunes in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, now offers easier hiking and biking to the Atlantic Ocean and the ICW via a 21-mile trail and park network. The trails will connect ponds and waterfronts, new parks including dog parks and a YMCA. This scenic, safer pathway replaces three miles of congested sidewalks and side streets.
Look Out for Manatee Laws mandate that cruisers slow down in manatee protection zones through November 15th. Watching for manatees in springs, rivers and Atlantic waters during warmer months should become a habit according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Mariners help prevent collisions if they wear polarized sunglasses, look for circles in the water’s surface, watch for manatee snouts, and adjust throttle near spotted manatees. myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/manatee/protection-zones.
Four South Carolina marine businesses received hefty Boating Infrastructure Grants (BIG) this year. The Charleston City Marina replaces electrical receptacles on its MegaDock with about $20,000; The Myrtle Beach Yacht Club replaces its fuel system with nearly $45,000; Beaufort’s Downtown Marina upgrades its transient dock with almost $1 million, and St. Johns Yacht Harbor constructs 50 transient slips and installs a state-of-the-art fueling system with over $953,000. Boating excise duties finance the BIG trust fund.
The aggressive lionfish significantly threatens Florida’s native wildlife and habitat. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) held a Lionfish Summit in 2013 to catalyze the necessary changes for reduction and easy removal of lionfish, and to develop markets for them. The commission launched the free app “Report Florida Lionfish” with educational information, safe handling guidelines and a data-reporting form for public lionfish spotters and harvesters. App users can also share their photos of lionfish in Florida waters. Those without smart devices may submit reports at myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/lionfish.
Miami Megayacht Marina will provide much-needed slips for 200-foot megayachts on the Miami River next summer. This 14-slip facility replaces an existing well-worn marina. Each covered slip comes with sheltered parking for three vehicles, indoor storage and quarters for captain and crew (unique in the U.S.). Covered tender storage, an owner’s vault and additional flexible space are also included. Marina amenities include a clubhouse with a coffee shop, internet, dining area, spa, exercise room, media room, and swimming pool. Marine-related businesses are onsite. Dredging and a new seawall are planned. The Miami Megayacht Marina is expected to revitalize the area and its economy.
New Smyrna Beach, Florida, was the final destination for 67-year-old kayaker Alexander “Olek” Doba. He paddled solo more than 6,000 miles from Portugal over the course of 195 days. After leaving Lisbon last October he encountered storms, mechanical problems, a challenging Gulf Stream, and winds that blew him off course. In April, Doba and his 21-foot kayak was escorted into a New Smyrna Beach harbor by 15 local kayakers. When he kissed Florida’s sandy soil his admirers on shore called him a “tough guy.”
ICW drawbridges in Daytona Beach’s Volusia County and other ICW locales will vanish in future years due to expensive bridge maintenance with custom-made parts and tender costs as much as $400,000 per year. A high-rise bridge replacing a Volusia County drawbridge next year will cost $43 million with mostly federal funds. Although expensive to build, high-rise bridges’ annual costs are less. ICW cruisers will still have to wait for bridge openings since fundraising for new bridges takes time.
S.E. Seaboard boat drivers of certain ages will now be required to take classes on safe boat handling. States’ age requirements are North Carolina, under 26; South Carolina, under 16 if operating a boat with 15 horsepower or more; Georgia, born on or after January 1, 1998; Florida, born on or after January 1, 1988, if the boat has 10 horsepower or more.
