Anchorage Review for Little River Diversion Channel

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Sep 14, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

As of Sept 14/22, water levels 5 - 10 ft below normal. Today this anchorage is completely dry.

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Marina Review for Starved Rock Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Sep 10, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

Very convenient stop for fuel. Cheaper diesel than other nearby marinas. New owners in last couple of years are extremely friendly & accommodating. Great restaurant onsite. We did not stay in marina, but owner states transient slips always available and full boat service onsite.

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Marina Review for Big Sound Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Aug 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

Convenient 5-10 min walk to several restaurants. Walmart Superstore 1.5 mi. A shorter distance and over the bridge is a meat store and a grocery store called Farmers Market on Bowes St. There is a walking/bike path that starts on the main street and crosses a pedestrian bridge. Restrooms/showers in marina are worn, but adequate. Two washers & dryers. Quiet marina and seasonal boaters very friendly. Seems to be a favorite with Loopers. Green space with lots of picnic tables, BBQ's and chairs to gather.

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Marina Review for Bluewater Lodge and Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Aug 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

This marina is now Bluewater Marina, part of a chain. Staff very accommodating! At the "last minute' they found a dock for us in a storm. Mechanics on staff and got repair done on day 2 before departure. Showers/restrooms in separate trailer. Good wifi, potable water from the lake. Town of Honey Harbour 10-15 min walk. Seasonal boaters very friendly!

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Marina Review for Picnic Island Resort

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Aug 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 3

They do sell diesel in addition to gas. Best price in area. Easy access to fuel dock as you pass by in the marked channel. They do not have transient slips.

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Lock comment on Lock 20 Ashburnham

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 25, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Unlike the other locks on Trent-Severn, do not expect any advance directions from lock staff. If you are on the blue line, you will go into the lock. Therefore, determine with the other boaters who will go first and which side to tie to. No rafting in lock, but tie to both sides allowed.

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Marina Review for Old Mill Park/Campbellford Town Dock

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 17, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

Convenient quiet location to a great little town on both sides of canal. A nearby bridge connects the two sides. About a 10 minute walk from one side of wall to the other across the bridge. Call ahead to make a reservation on the Town Dock wall. Chamber of Commerce staff will place a sign with your boat name on the railing. Just confirm which side of canal they are placing you. They only offer 3 nights for the cost of 2 during 'off season'. West side has 30 amp, easy code access to boater's bathrooms and showers 24/7. Two water taps set back from wall and are a far distance to reach for a tank fill. East side has 30 and 50 amp plus water at the tie up. Several restaurants to choose from, but lock staff recommend Capers and Dockside Bistro. Call ahead to make reservations, especially on weekends. Renovated movie theater shows new movies Fri, Sat and Sun only. Easy walk to all the stores listed in Skipper Bob. Town just doesn't have fuel, pumpout or laundromat.

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Lock comment on Lock 34 Beveridges (Tay Canal)

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 14, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Quiet, remote tie up above the lock. Room for 3 boats on both sides. Restrooms and showers on backside of building. Access with code from lockmaster. Facilities shared with O-tent-ik campers. Unlocked restrooms on front of building. Dishwashing sink and water facet on outside of building. When ready to lock down, phone staff at lock 33. Phone number and phone inside same building with public restrooms facing the canal.

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Lock comment on Lock 29A Smiths Falls

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 13, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Above the lock, multiple tie ups along grey line wall with electric. These tie ups are next to the park with foot traffic. On backside of the blue line south wall, room for 6-8 boats. No electric here, but private since few pedestrians come onto this 'island' between the river and the lock. Lockmaster will provide a key to use restrooms after hours (no showers). Water tap on west end of lockmaster building. Ten minute walk south to large grocery store and one mile walk north to Train Museum. Rideau Canal Museum apparently closed this summer due to staffing issues.

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Lock comment on Locks 42-40 Jones Falls Flight

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 13, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Quiet scenic tie up below lock 42. On north side, tie up on blue side for 3-4 boats. On south side, single dock with space for a boat on either side. Restroom to the north of locks 40-41. Loop trail for circular hike to view the unique stone arch dam.

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Lock comment on Locks 12, 11, Hogs Back

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Worth a stop and short walk to see the falls! Ask lock staff if you can tie up temporarily above the lock along blue line on west dock. Then cross over lock to east side and follow the trail.

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Marina Review for Marina de Hull

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 2

Good location with view of Parliament Buildings across the river. One block away from Museum of Canadian History. Otherwise no nearby transportation or restaurants. Constant wake despite no wake zone. Long walk to bathrooms. No fuel or pumpout. Updated floating docks, but narrow finger docks that rock easily with the wakes. Good wi-fi. Single, free washer/dryer. Mostly seasonal boaters.

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Marina Review for Dows Lake Pavilion

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 3

Convenient to bike/walking paths. Dock has security gate. Water available on paid slips - otherwise $10 charge for fill-up at fuel dock. Pumpout $26. Good wi-fi. Single washer/dryer. Two locked bathrooms with showers for boaters. Facilities are showing their age. Restaurant on site with outdoor patio can get noisy especially on w/e. Mostly seasonal boaters, but all very helpful. City bus stop within 1 block; large grocery store 2.5 mi. Lots of walkable restaurants.

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Marina Review for Golden Anchor Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 25, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 2

Small, but convenient marina in Hawksbury. Very narrow floating docks with NO protection from wakes. Wakes settle after dark. Good wifi. Bathrooms/showers adequate. Two fuel slips on far west side of marina next to shore. While we were there, the only washing machine was out of service. Security gate to dock broken. Several restaurants within 10 min or less walk. Moonshine BBQ restaurant on Main St had great BBQ! Good alternative to this marina is the free town dock on south side just west of bridge .

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Lock comment on Côte Sainte-Catherine Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

All boats must make a reservation and pay lock fee in advance. Check the actual lock schedule on website at 7:30 am on your reserved day for any updated lock through times. Upbound pleasure craft floating docks on the left. Follow directions on Seaway site for meaning of lights. Watch for red and green lights and listen for instructions over loudspeaker once green light comes on. Once in lock, lock staff will direct you and throw down lines on port side. Rafting to other boats may be expected.

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Marina Review for Port D'Escale Marina at the Old Port

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

State of the art floating docks. Competent staff. Dock area secure with locked gate. Excellent location in old Montreal. Very long ramp from street level down to boat basin. (long walk for pet owners to reach grass area). Great individual bathrooms and showers, plus laundry on docks. Pumpout Can $27. Adjacent music venue can be loud every evening until 11 pm. Only 2 mi away via the old Lachine Canal bike/walking trail is indoor Atwater Market - a must! Notre Dame cathedral is less than a mile and offer tours for a fee. Science Center next door is aimed at school aged children. Large selection of restaurants to choose from and in all price ranges. Wi-fi is through Telus - must agree to use of email for marketing. We could access wi-fi on computers but not with our 'fire stick'. Popular spot with Loopers!

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Lock comment on Lower Beauharnois

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 19, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Reservation and payment online. Your reservation time can change daily, so check. Lockmasters do not want or expect VHF communication. Tie up to wait may be necessary ias commercial traffic has priority. Watch for green light and overhead speaker instructions. For downbound, lock staff will throw you lines for bow and stern from the port side of this lock.

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Lock comment on Upper Beauharnois

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 19, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Reservation and payment online. Arrive 1 hr before scheduled time. Downbound tie up at floating docks on port side just under the bridge. Per lockmasters, avoid using VHF to communicate with lock. Therefore if you have a reserved time, just arrive in advance, tie up and wait. Watch for green light to proceed and listen for overhead speaker for directions. Lock staff will throw you lines for bow and starboard from port side of lock.

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Marina Review for Crysler Park Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

Accommodating staff. Clean bathrooms and coin laundry. Recycling. Narrow, floating finger docks, but long walk to office and BR's if on H or G docks. Free tickets to Upper Canada Village with overnight at marina. (Distance 2 mi or 3.1 km) At time of our visit, marina did not offer any transportation (except taxi) as noted in Waterway Guide. Adjacent to park and campground along shore.

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Lock comment on Snell Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Downbound - If you need to wait for the lock opening, refer to signage on port side. Bollards in lock numbered and on starboard side.

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Lock comment on Eisenhower Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

On demand lock. Downbound tie up to wait is behind port side wall on approach. Approx 40 ft floating dock with rings. Wait there until lockmaster comes to collect cash for both locks. Bollard tie in lock on starboard side only. Bollards are numbered and lockmaster may assign a bollard to tie to.

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Lock comment on Iroquois Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Use online app (Greatlakesseaway.com) to reserve a lock time, pay with credit card and download a pdf for instructions. Pleasure vessels allowed to lock through 2 x day, once in am and once pm. Must arrive 1 hr before reservation time. East/downbound, tie to floating dock B on starboard side just to the right of high wall near lock entrance. Indicator lights plus display screen with instructions. Contact lock at 613-330-2284 or VHF 68 on arrival.

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Marina Review for Clayton Harbor Municipal Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

Great floating docks, free pumpout, excellent wi-fi, clean bathroom facilities and single coin operated washer/dryer in ladies bathroom. Recycling. Convenient location to downtown, restaurants and parks. Riverwalk Antique Boat Museum open daily 10 - 5 pm and plan for several hours to tour all the buildings. Local grocery 0.6 mi away. After you shop there, they will hold your purchases and deliver them to the marina free of charge. During our 4 day stay mid June, there were occasional wakes, but not any worse than other marinas. Seems to be a favorite with other Loopers!

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Marina Review for French Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 1

Per Marina, there are NO transient slips available this summer. All slips are seasonal.

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Marina Review for Islander Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 1

Per Marina, there are no transient slips available for 2022 season.

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Anchorage Review for Schodack Creek

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 3, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Beautiful quiet anchorage. There is a reversal of current with tide, but very gentle. Plenty of swing room. Anchored in 15 ft just north of private marina. Good holding in mud. West side of anchorage is lush green with lots of birds. This gets you off the Hudson and away from barge traffic.

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Free Dock Review for Oriental Town Dock #1 - Free Dock

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 27, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

Space for 1 boat on either side of fixed dock. Shallow, varies with tide, but bow in on starboard side of dock for deeper water. Do self pumpout at water end of the other free dock as you enter harbor on Rt side before marina. Free shuttle between 10 - 5 pm to & from Piggly Wiggly - just call manager to arrange. Free bikes and map from Inland Waterway Provision Company minutes down the street. Right across the street is a coffee shop and minutes north is a little shack selling fresh and frozen seafood Thurs - Sun (cash or check only).

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Anchorage Review for Factory Creek

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 8, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Channel past the marina too narrow even for our 27 ft boat. There are lots of docks on one side and at low tide exposed mud on the other side. More swing room before public ramp/dock with anchored log term sailboats. Good holding in mud. Some noise from bridge. Worth stopping at day dock adjacent to park and downtown before moving over to anchorage or marina.

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Marina Review for Seven Seas Marina & Boatyard

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Apr 27, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 1

I called to check on price of diesel since no price was given. The gentleman answering replied " I don't know, I don't care, it changes every day'. He was not willing to check.

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Anchorage Review for Eau Gallie Basin

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Apr 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Great protection from high winds and chop of ICW. Anchored in 8-9 ft with good hold in mud/sand. We did swing with winds 15-20 mph with greater gusts. Mooring field on south side of basin. We anchored near homes across from marina with about 10-12 long term anchored vessels. Larger boats may be challenged to find a wide enough swing space. Large park along channel entrance provides great shore access. Did not check out shopping options.

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Marina Review for Madeira Beach Moorings Yacht Harbor & Resort

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Apr 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 3

This WAS a great stay in March 2021. But this marina has been sold and is now Madeira Beach Moorings and Yacht Harbor Resort. New # 727-215-1140. Per Shirley (previous dockmaster) said she no longer works there and suggested I check the new marina's website. The # in 2022 WW Guide is Shirley's cell and is incorrect. Reservations now via Dockwa. My phone messages to check if transient slips even available were not returned.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Waterway Guide will research and make make appropriate changes.

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Anchorage Review for Cortez Bridge West Side

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Apr 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.5'

Good anchorage on both sides of ICW souh of bridge. You'll find a dozen boats anchored in both locations - many of them long term. Choose your side based on wind direction. Very good holding in mud. We anchored in 8 ft near USCG dock on east side. Noise from bridge not an issue. Wake not a problem being closer to shore and none during the night.

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Anchorage Review for Searcy Creek Oxbow

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Mar 26, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Great, quiet anchorage. Sailboat already anchored in west arm of oxbow. We dropped anchor in east arm in 7 ft and backed up with 11-12 ft at stern. Anchor held well with about 40 ft chain and came up clean with some vegetation.

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Anchorage Review for Okatuppa Creek

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Mar 24, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Narrow creek with overhang on both shores. Attempted to enter lake on north side but narrowed even more with 2 ft depth. Tight backing out. Finally anchored on south shore 0.29 mi from entrance in 7 ft. Good hold in mud with bow and stern anchors. Quiet. Some fast moving fisherman (without nav lights) use the creek too. Good potential for bugs.

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Anchorage Review for David Lake

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Mar 24, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Approach to channel approx 10 ft when river high by 3-4 ft. Short channel to lake with depths of 14 -15 ft. Barge facility on NW side of lake. Barges use the deeper east side of lake to enter/exit and turn. Per Skipper Bob, we anchored in 7-8 ft on west side of lake and west of stationary barges. Great holding in clay bottom. No need for second anchor as there is lots of swing room. Great, quiet anchorage. There were a couple of small fishing boats on east side, but no barge traffic. No shore access.

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Marina Review for Kingfisher Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Mar 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Kingfisher Marina at mi 216.9 is now the ONLY marina for recreational vessels and fuel. The Demopolis yacht basin at mi 216.7 just south is now strictly for commercial use. Kingfisher is an excellent facility all round. Note fuel dock and pumpout on east side of basin across from the slips.

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Marina Review for Smithville Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Mar 10, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 3

No fuel - tanks have been removed. Poor cell service, so call in advance for approach to avoid large sandbar. Nearest Walmart 7 mi with older courtesy car. Quiet area and friendly dockmaster. Clean single men and women's bathroom with separate showers.

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Anchorage Review for Browns Chute

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Due to high water levels, we anchored in 11 1/2 ft. Strong current, but great holding. Lots of debris bumped by in the night.

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Marina Review for Paducah Transient Boat Dock

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

New aluminum long floating docks with fuel, power, water, wifi & pumpout. If water level permits, tie to inside for wake protection. No restrooms or showers on-site. Notify dockmaster in advance for approach advice and dock assist. Quilt museum, restaurants and train museum within four blocks. Quilt museum fascinating even for non-quilters!

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Marina Review for Grafton Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 21, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Friendly and relaxing marina. Super office and helpful dock staff. NO fuel available here for some time. Closest fuel is in St Charles, MO. Pumpout available.Great restaurant and bar on-site with river views (closed Mon & Tues). Unique store offers bourbon and wine tastings, liquor and clothing sales. Limited groceries in town, but loaner car allows you to go to Walmart in Jerseyville 16 mi away. Very clean individual restroom/showers with keypad access.. Convenient laundry. Pool opening shortly.

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Lock comment on Jerry F. Costello (Kaskaskia) Lock and Dam

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 21, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Great quiet spot just 1/4 mile up river When arriving at mouth of river, notify lock via VHF 14 or call 618-284-7160 for permission to stay. Preferred tie up on dam side of jetty with cleats. Plug in 15 amp outlets under light fixtures on jetty. No wake or current & good wind protection.

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Marina Review for Tall Timbers Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 20, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Super friendly and accommodating owner Bob. Nice covered outdoor bar with limited food on-site. Popular local hangout but quiets down at dusk. Extra seating areas on docks. Lovely setting in tree lined cove. Well protected from wind and wakes. Geat wifi. Two clean restrooms/showers with keypad access for boaters. Ramp to marina keypad lockd at night.. No laundry. About 1/2 mi to town with two restaurants.

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Anchorage Review for Lower Twin Sisters Island

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jul 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Excellent, quiet spot. Tucked in behind island and anchored in 15 ft depth.. One knot current held boat straight. Did not notice any wake from boats or barges. Watch for the beaver along shore.

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Marina Review for South Haven Municipal Marina - Southside Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Helpful staff. Fixed docks. Boater dock is gated but not locked. Restrooms and showers clean, updated with code access. Great location to town. One block up hill to restaurants. Try Black River Tavern for the lake perch! Marina adjacent to green space and 2 blocks to beach and pier with lighthouse. Unlimited access to loaner bicycles. Fuel available on both sides of river.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Jefferson Beach

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Large full service marina. Well protected slips. Keypad access to clean, updated restrooms and coin laundry.. Nice restaurant adjacent. Good wifi as well as several TV stations.

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Marina Review for Oasis Marinas at North Coast Harbor

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 3

Well protected harbor. Best location to explore Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Great Lakes Science Center, both one block away. Security gate to access docks. Adjacent park and restaurant as well as restaurants within easy walking distance. No laundry.. Bathrooms basic: all lights burned out in showers and no shower curtains in both men's and ladies area. Water from showers pooled on plywood floors with mold present.

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Marina Review for Lexington State Harbor

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jul 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Harbor well protected by seawall.. Managed by DNR staff and office located on fuel dock. Staff very accommodating and onsite 8 am - 10 pm. They offer reservable slips as well as 'first come first serve' slips. Docks open to public, but restrooms/showers secure with keypad access for boaters. Adjacent restaurant, park, sandy beach and playground. Jeff's Market and laundromat 4 blocks. Smaller food and liquor store 2 blocks.

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Marina Review for Port Sanilac Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 30, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 1

Marina states they are booked seasonally and do not have transient slips available.

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Marina Review for Chadwick Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Helpful, friendly staff. Marina adjacent to city pier behind long breakwater. Boat US discount 25%. Key provided to access dock and restrooms after hours. Restrooms basic. Good wifi. Several restaurants and pubs within 1 block.

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Free Dock Review for Canal Port Medina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Tie up along park with power and water. Two unisex restrooms in last building before the bridge and just east of pumpout (in outhouse looking structure). Restrooms entrance faces canal under 3 large black goose neck lights. Six block walk to Medina Train Museum... worth the stop!

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Lock comment on Black Rock Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Posted: Lock operating schedule: First lockage at 8:30 a.m. weekdays and 11:30 a.m. weekends. Last lockage 9:30 p.m. Recreational Lockge: downbound on the hour; upbound on half hour. Contact lock on VHF 16 or call 716-879-4403. Tie up on approach wall with bollards set far back or chain just under rubber bumpers along wall.

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Marina Review for Ess-Kay Yards Inc.

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Great parts store, best diesel price and excellent customer service. We stopped in for fuel and pump out and they arranged for some needed service on the spot. They even lent us the courtesy car for a quick run into town while we waited. We also got the AGLCA discount for store purchases.

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Lock comment on E23 Brewerton Lock

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Free tie up west of lock on south side. Very long and low height cement wall has bollards and rings. Quiet, shaded park with picnic tables, BBQ and trash cans. No services.

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Free Dock Review for Sylvan Beach Pier

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Tie up with rings along entire length of wall. Short height of wall makes for easy access. Per W.W. guide, the best protection from waves and west wind is along wall east of bridge. Picnic tables, trash cans and green space adjacent to wall. Unable to locate restrooms.

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Marina Review for Ferry Dock Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Jun 6, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

Excellent marina and great city to explore. We came for one night and stayed 6! Dock staff friendly and attentive. Floating docks well maintained.. Bathrooms and laundry the best we've ever seen. Marina store carries beer,, wine and snacks.. Great restaurant on site overlooks the lake and mountains for spectacular sunsets.. Marina behind a long breakwater but boats will still rock with a strong south wind. City bus system easy to get around including the Shelburne museum which is a must do day trip. Church St - 5 block pedestrian mall about 6 blocks. Bike rentals nearby. Check for regular summer concerts in the park.

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Free Dock Review for City of Vergennes Municipal Docks

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Jun 6, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Quiet overnight tie-up along wall.. Space for 2-3 boats. Our 50 ft power cord easily reached plug in. Water was not yet tuned on. No restrooms or showers. Position boat for view of falls. Donation box for overnight stays. Easy 10 -15 min walk into quaint town. Per locals,, enter mouth of creek slowly and stay in center of creek.

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Free Dock Review for Fort Edward Yacht Basin

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 30, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

Very quiet tie up along wall. 30 Amp electric hook ups conveniently placed. Bathrooms/showers were locked and unable to reach anyone at town offices to check reason. Ye Old Fort diner about 2 blocks away a must! Don't be turned off by plain exterior. Inside is full of memorabilia. Great service for all homemade food, delicious pies and very reasonable prices.

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Marina Review for Hyde Park Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on May 26, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 2

Helpful, friendly staff. Shallow 2 ft at entrance and inside marina past breakwater at low tide . Boats with more than 2 ft draft are tied to outside fuel dock and exposed to wakes and waves. Bathrooms filthy. Locals advised against walking or biking into town due to big hill and very busy road. Good Uber service and 1 mile to Culinary Institute of America.

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Bridge comment on Amtrak NJTRO Bridge

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 18, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'

This bridge is old and requires frequent downtime to repair. Then it requires 4 hr notice to open. Best to call operator at 201-246-2228 to check on current status and submit a request to open if needed. (We are in hour 3 waiting for crew to arrive to open)

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Anchorage Review for Cape May Harbor West

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Lots of wake from even small boats despite no wake zone late into evening and starting before dawn. Anchored in 9 ft near mooring balls by Coast Guard Station. Awoke to Reveille & National Anthem. No obvious close shore access.

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Anchorage Review for Smith Creek

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Quiet, lovely cove at State Park. Tree lined on 3 shores. Anchored in 6 ft. Far enough away from river channel, we had no wake from the few small boats we saw. No obvious shore access in this cove.

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Anchorage Review for Spa Creek - Annapolis

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Anchored in 6-7 ft with wooded park on one side and houses/docks opposite bank. Room for 4 - 5 boats with swing room. No wake as small boat traffic respected 6 mph limit. Avoid dropping anchor at marked underwater cable area. When we were there on w/e, locals and small tour boats slowly cruise the Spa Creek, but all quiets down at sunset. Note Spa Creek bridge in harbor has vertical height of 14- 16 ft and has restricted opening times during the day.

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Marina Review for Capital Yacht Club

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on May 14, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Excellent updated facility and location adjacent to The Wharf and waterfront restaurants. Floating docks. Current charge $3 per ft.. Excellent WiFi.. Walking distance to Capital Mall/Washington Monument. Metro and Safeway 0.4 miles. CVS 1 block away. Friendly, helpful staff and members.. Club's upper deck bar and restaurant open Thur, Fri, Sat and available to transients. Great food and very reasonably priced.. Pass card security. Pump out at slip. Recycling. Large laundry facility takes coins or credit card. Can be noisy at times during day due to large helicopter and airplane flight paths over river. Wish we had the time to stay longer!

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Anchorage Review for Prentice Creek

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 14, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Small, calm cove surrounded by some homes. One owner politely questioned our presence. Shallow with 4 ft or less in spots. Go in further than anchorage map shows or you will be blocking access to private docks. No cell service or shore access.

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Marina Review for Hope Springs Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on May 14, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Four miles off Potomac on Aquia Creek.. Very modern, clean clubhouse with TV lounge. Current slip charge $2 ft. Helpful, friendly staff.. Easy fueling and good fuel price. Small beach. Nothing nearby, but local restaurant delivers. Good wind and wake protection.. Chart says 4 ft approach MLW, but we had minimum 6 ft in marked channel. Staff report sometimes less depending on tide and wind direction.

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Marina Review for Top Rack Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on May 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

Slip charge now $60 flat rate. There are 4 slips with 30/50 amp, which is first come, first serve.

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Anchorage Review for Alligator River - Catfish Point

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on May 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

As reported for area, potential snags. We used a secondary Danforth anchor with a trip line without problems.

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Marina Review for Morningstar Marinas Southport

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Apr 29, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 1

Marina still not open for transient slips due to supply delays after hurricane damage. Only overnight option is free docks at Provision Company Restaurant..

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Marina will be fully operational June 15, 2021.

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Bridge comment on Carolina Bays Parkway (SC 31) Bridge

Comment by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Apr 27, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'

Bridge construction appears complete. No obstruction to ICW.

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Marina Review for St. Johns Yacht Harbor

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Apr 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Excellent staff and facilities. Courtesy car for 2 hours allows easy access to Charleston, Folly Beach and lots of stores/restaurants. Recycling at marina.

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Free Dock Review for Beaufort "East" Day Dock

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Apr 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

New floating day use dock between east side of marina and bridge. Signs state no docking from 1 am to 6 am. Space for at least three 40 ft boats on outside and space for dingies and smaller boats on inside of T dock. Beautiful park adjacent. Shops, galleries and restaurants one short block away.

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Marina Review for River House Marina

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin , Tug Life, on Mar 24, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

On dock parallel to shore in no wake zone, but still some wake. Used fender boards. Security gate to dock.. Owner very helpful & attentive. Had outdoor pool to ourselves! Free Wi-Fi.

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Anchorage Review for Punta Blanca Island

Reviewed by: Brian Chapin, Tug Life, on Mar 24, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 3.0'

Quiet, secluded cove surrounded by mangroves. Several manatees grazing around boat. Narrow channel close to shore on approach, but a 41' Morgan sailboat already moored there. Lots of room for both of us. Good cell service (Verizon). One of our best anchorages!

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