Reviews from Bret Butler (82)

  • Marina Review for Grand Bahama Yacht Club

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 30, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    We love this marina. The grounds are nice as are the facilities. The staff is some of the best we encountered in the bahamas. Sure it is not the least expensive, but for use worth the difference in price.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Warderick Wells North Mooring

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 30, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    5
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    3
    Wake Protection:
    5
    Scenic Beauty:
    5
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    5
    Pet Friendly:
    4
    Cell Service:
    2
    WiFi:
    2

    Stayed here four nights. Lots of cool hikes to take on the shore. The water is truly amazing to look at. Of course there is some current and when wind and current oppose the mooring balls tend to get pulled under the boat. And there is no or little cell signal. We have starlink so not a problem. It is a must stop when visiting the exumas.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Cambridge Cay Moorings

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 30, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    5
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    4
    Scenic Beauty:
    5
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    5
    Pet Friendly:
    5
    Cell Service:
    4
    WiFi:
    4

    Stayed here a few nights. What a beautiful location. Weathered a wind storm, winds from the east and north, the bay is well protected. Several nice walks on the island. A short dingy ride to the aquarium.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Staniel Cay Moorings

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 30, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    3
    Wake Protection:
    2
    Scenic Beauty:
    5
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    2
    Pet Friendly:
    3
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    2

    Stayed here a few nights, The mooring ball held in a strong wind storm (40 mph). It is close to town and several nice beaches. We would definitely use it again.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Little Whale Cay

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 3, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    3
    Holding:
    2
    Wind Protection:
    2
    Current Flow:
    2
    Wake Protection:
    2
    Scenic Beauty:
    3
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    1
    Pet Friendly:
    1
    Cell Service:
    1
    WiFi:
    2

    We stayed here on our way to Nassau. The island is private and has personnel that give you the evil eye if you make moves to go ashore. The current was strong as was the wrap around swell in the easterly winds. One of the cats next to us moved about 1/2 mile south and seemed to find a much more protected location. If we were headed this way again we would look for someplace else.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Hawksbill Cay North Moorings & Anchorage

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 1, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    5
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    2
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    5
    Pet Friendly:
    5
    Cell Service:
    1
    WiFi:
    1

    Stayed here three nights on a mooring ball. Cost was $40 per night. Park warden came by to collect the first day. There were 4-8 other boats here each day. It is close to some nice beaches. We did both hikes off the beach. One directly east of the mooring field led over the island to the other side to a very nice long beach. Some of the softest sand we have encountered. The trail splits about 300 yards into it. The right fork goes to the beach the left goes to a small beach. We actually took the left fork and then hiked south along the shoreline on the limestone towards the other long beach. We found a couple of really cool little tiny blow holes that sounded much like what we imagined a dinosaur's breathing would sound like. Also hiked the trail to the Russel Ruins that is about 300 yards north of the mooring field. It is cool to see the 8 or 10 partial walls remaining from the buildings built in late 1700s.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Allen’s-Leaf Cay Central

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 29, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    5
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    3
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    2
    Pet Friendly:
    3
    Cell Service:
    4
    WiFi:
    4

    Stayed here two nights with 8 other boats. The tour boats came in every morning to see the iguanas, but otherwise really protected anchorage. Certainly a current, but we held solid in sand. Good protection from all but north wind and even then looks to be protected somewhat.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Marina Review for Palm Cay Marina/One Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 28, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    On first glance this place seems great. Theo and Dominque were great to work with. They saved us a place when we were heading south. But we did not realize this is a really busy charter base for dream yacht and moorings. Lots of activity. The facilities could be really nice, but the mens room was out of TP and did not have working lights for the three days we were there and at one point there was feces all over in the stall. The courtesy car is available but only for one hour which is really not time to get anywhere other than the near by grocery store. You can access downtown using taxi ,for $50 each way. There is laundry facilities, but saturday and sunday the staff were all using the washers so was very hard to get our stuff washed and dried and no one had quarters or tokens. Price was $5.50 per foot which is reasonable for Nassau, but as I pointed out there was much to be desired that could be remedied with not much effort. So overall, we probably will look elsewhere when we return.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Marina Review for Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Stayed here for three nights. Very protected location. The rate was reasonable and access to the resort pool and beach great. Docks are fixed and a bit rough but all work ok. The dock master Terrance was great to work with. Only down side was that the bathrooms are rough (one toilet leaked pretty bad) and there was only one shower which cannot be locked and no room for changing. So we just showered on the boat.

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  • Anchorage Review for Great Harbour - Berry Islands

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    2
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    4
    Scenic Beauty:
    3
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    1
    Pet Friendly:
    1
    Cell Service:
    1
    WiFi:
    1

    We stayed here one night, looking to get protection from easterly winds. This was not the right place. It did have protection from the north and south, but not so good from the direct east. Also not much in terms of shore access. The next day we pulled anchor and motorsailed around to great harbor cay where there is much better wind protection and access to shore.

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  • Anchorage Review for Great Harbour - Bullocks Harbour

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    5
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    4
    Shore Access:
    4
    Pet Friendly:
    4
    Cell Service:
    5
    WiFi:
    1

    Stayed here a couple of nights with North to SE winds. It is protected. There is some boat traffic from shuttles taking people to the cruise ship port at great stirrup but it did not bother us. We had a fantastic meal at CoolieMaes which is just over on the shore from the anchorage. I highly recommend it. Holding was good in about 14 feet. We saw winds in the mid 20s from the east.

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  • Bridge comment on Hobe Sound (CR 708) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Navigated this bridge no problem March 15, 2023. No issues.

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  • Bridge comment on Ernest Lyons (SR A1A) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Came under at mid tide, board read 64.5 Our 64' air draft cleared.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Bridge comment on Jensen Beach Causeway (Frank A. Wacha/SR 707A ) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Board read 64.5 and we cleared with 64 air draft.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Bridge comment on Peter B. Cobb Memorial (SR A1A) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Came under at mid tide. Reader board seems accurate. We have just under 64' air draft and board read 64.5

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  • Marina Review for Safe Harbor Harbortown

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Had to haul out here to repair damaged rudder. All the staff at shearwater marine were professional to work with. The project manager Tom kept us informed of any changes or issues. Dario the fiberglass guy was excellent and did fantastic work.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Jensen Beach Mooring Field

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 17, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    5
    Holding:
    5
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    5
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    3
    Ease of Shopping:
    4
    Shore Access:
    5
    Pet Friendly:
    5
    Cell Service:
    4
    WiFi:
    1

    Stayed here one night, easy to get in and out. Access to shore is easy and secure. Bathrooms and showers are clean and nice. Short walk to town and shopping. Well protected from all by E to south winds. Great price for the location and service

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  • Free Dock Review for Lee Wenner Park Free Dock

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Feb 9, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    We draw just under 4 and had no problem getting in and out. There were 4 other boats there but we were able to squeeze in between two of them. Kind of busy all night with persons walking on the dock and cars moving in and out of the parking lot all night. Great little town to explore with what I would say is probably the best stocked hardware store on the east coast just one block west of the marina.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Bridge comment on Bennett Causeway Bridges

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Feb 9, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Passed under south bound. But seemed that southern span was slightly lower than northern by about 6". Reader board read 65, we have a 63'-8" air draft. Made it under both, but VHF antenna rubbed on the southern span.

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  • Bridge comment on Wabasso Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Feb 9, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    No problem getting under. We have a 63.5' air draft and went under with reader board showing just over 64'

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  • Marina Review for Loggerhead Marina - Vero Beach Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Feb 9, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great marina, stayed here last year and again this year. Only concern and it is a big one is that we went in under a strong north wind and our rear port rudder caught on something near the second to last south piling going in. Then the boat swung beamside to the wind and waves and we got bashed around until sea tow could come and pull us off. The mistake I made was trying to keep center of boat in center of channel, but should have hugged the north side with the bow keeping rudders and keels as close to center as possible.

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  • Marina Review for St. Augustine Municipal Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    We have stayed at two other marinas in St Augustine and this is by far the best. Good access to city, nice docks, nice onshore facilities. We will stay here again.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Frederica River (North)

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    5
    Holding:
    5
    Wind Protection:
    5
    Current Flow:
    3
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    5
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    4
    Pet Friendly:
    3
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    3

    Stopped here on our way south. We ducked in to this spot from the north ICW access on the Frederica River. Great spot to anchor next to the park. At low tide you can't get to shore, but otherwise there is a really small dock with a ladder. We will stop again.

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  • Marina Review for Kilkenny Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    We had problems with our helm controls so stopped in for the night here. Unfortunately the restauraant was closed, but seems to be a 5 star place. There is a very small store, that surprisingly had a battery for me. Overall it is a great place to duck in to get out of weather or otherwise.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Cumberland Island

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    5
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    5
    Wake Protection:
    5
    Scenic Beauty:
    5
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    3
    Pet Friendly:
    5
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    3

    We stayed one night. The park service docks were closed to dingy's. Not sure why as the ferry was operating. We just dingyed to the beach and walked ashore. Saw lots of horses. Nice quiet spot to anchor, fairly well protected from most directions.

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  • Marina Review for Grand Bahama Yacht Club

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Dec 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    We stayed at this marina for nearly two weeks in April 2022. The staff were great. Reasonably close to shopping and restaurants. Had a great time exploring the island. At that time it was a super deal in terms of dock rates, but I noticed that sometime since then the prices have more than doubled.

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  • Bridge comment on F.J. Torras Causeway Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 28, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Still no tide boards on either side. We have 63.5 draft and went under with the top of the sixth fender board showing. Had plenty of room, maybe an extra 2'

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  • Bridge comment on Jekyll Island (SR 520) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 28, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Passed under at low tide and the top of the sixth rail on the solid fender was showing. We have a 63.5' air draft, had plenty of room. No tide board on north or south approaches.

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  • Marina Review for Two Way Fish Camp

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 28, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    Stopped for the night. Frank the dock master was great to work with, cleared a spot at the dock for us. The restaurant was worth the visit. Bathroom and showers a bit rough but serviceable. Certainly worth the price.

    View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer


  • Anchorage Review for Cumberland Island

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 25, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    2
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    3
    Pet Friendly:
    4
    Cell Service:
    4
    WiFi:
    1

    Stopped and anchored April 2022. There were about 8 boats in the area. Holding seemed good. Exposed to S, W and N winds. Great location to go exploring the historical island.

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  • Marina Review for Palm Cove Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 23, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great dock hands and staff. Clean facilities and showers. Relatively close to restaurants and groceries. Nice floating docks and relatively well protected. Only concern is our draft is 3'-6" and we were sitting on the mud when at the slip at low tide. Had to time arrival and departure for mid to high tide.

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  • Bridge comment on Butler Boulevard (SR 202) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 22, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    4/22/2022 1100 Our air draft is 63.5 Tide board showed 67 + There was a tide board on the south side. We cleared fine.

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  • Bridge comment on Palm Valley (SR 210) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 22, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    4/22/2022 0900 Our air draft is 63.5 Tide board on the south side showed 67. We cleared fine.

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  • Bridge comment on Francis and Mary Usina (SR A1A/Vilano) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 22, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    4/22/2022 0700 Tide board showed 69 ft. Tide was at near low. Our air draft is 63.5 Cleared with plenty of room

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  • Bridge comment on SR 312 Bridges

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5. We crossed under about 2 hours prior to low tide with board showing over 64 and had no problems. Board seems to be close to accurate.

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  • Bridge comment on Hammock Dunes Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5. We crossed under with board showing over 64 and seemed to be accurate.

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  • Bridge comment on SR 100 (Moody Blvd., Flagler) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5 We crossed under with board showing 64. So seems relatively accurate.

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  • Bridge comment on SR 40 Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    We were concerned about this bridge, our air draft is 63.5. We crossed under with board showing 64 and no problems.

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  • Bridge comment on Memorial Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5 We crossed under with board showing 64. Seems accurate.

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  • Bridge comment on International Speedway Blvd. Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5 We crossed under with board showing 64. So seems accurate

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  • Bridge comment on Seabreeze Bridges

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63.5. We passed under with board showing 64 so seems accurate

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  • Bridge comment on A1A Port Orange Relief Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Transited this bridge at 60 minutes prior to low tide. Board read 64.5' and seemed accurate.

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  • Marina Review for Conch House Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great location and really l great staff. Kind of exposed on the outer docks, but really nice floating docks. A good little store on site and relatively close to old town St Augustine.

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  • Marina Review for Palm Coast Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    As stated the facilities are a bit old, but the staff and location are fantastic.

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  • Marina Review for New Smyrna Beach City Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great location and nice marina and town to visit. We will stop again. We were on the floating docks. Protected location.

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  • Marina Review for Ocean Club Marina at Port Canaveral

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    Nice location just off the ocean. We arrived totally beat up after spending the previous 30 hours on the ocean. They fit us in on the fuel dock for the night.

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  • Marina Review for Riviera Beach City Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 1, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    We arrived in a major wind storm and our plan A did not work out. These folks let us stay on the fuel dock overnight which was great as there were no other options. They then allowed us to move to another spot on their docks the next day. The docks are first rate, the location is great. Down side was that only one shower was working and the dock boys were not very helpful in a pretty stressful situation. Overall nice place, we would come again.

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  • Marina Review for Cracker Boy Boat Works - Riviera Beach

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Apr 1, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 2

    We had called most of the marinas in the area and all were full and could not fit our cat. These guys really tried to find a spot for us and even figured out a way to let us slip into a narrow slot on their pier. But the wind was too high so we skipped. But I have to give them a couple of stars for being willing to try.

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  • Bridge comment on Blue Heron (SR A1A) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Apr 1, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Beware! We went under this bridge March 31 2022 at 4 pm which was really close to low tide. The reader board showed more than 64' but our mast is 63'-6" and our antenna scraped on three of the girders. I would have to say that the reader board is off by as much as a foot on this bridge.

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  • Marina Review for Loggerhead Marina - Vero Beach Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 30, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Wow what a great marina and location, Teri was fantastic to work with in getting a slip and working with our timeline. We intended to stay one or two nights and ended up staying almost a week. The dock hands were very accomodating and professional. I dont give 5 stars on many things, but will on this marina. We will be back!

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  • Bridge comment on Alma Lee Loy (SR 656/17th St.) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 30, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    There is no reader board on the north side, but this bridge was just 1 foot lower than the Merrill Barber bridge height.

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  • Bridge comment on Melbourne Causeway (SR 192) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 24, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Passed under abour 5 pm on March 23 2022. Mid to lower tide, but tide does not change much here. Wind from south at 30. Waves about 1-2 ft. Just had a few inches to spare, reader board showed 64' and seemed accurate.

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  • Bridge comment on Eau Gallie Causeway (SR 518) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 24, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    We are 63'-6" and passed under with a few inches to spare on about mid tide on March 23 2022 around 4 pm. Wind was 30 from the south and waves 1-2 ft.

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  • Bridge comment on Pineda Causeway Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 24, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    This is identified as a potentially problem bridge. We have a 63' mast with 8" of antennas above. Went under when reader board showed over 64'-6" but scraped our antenna. So conclusion is that the reader board reads high by about 6" or more.

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  • Marina Review for Melbourne Harbor Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 24, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    The dock master Phil worked with us to save a spot and stayed a bit late to get us in and fueled up. The marina is in a well protected little harbor. Lots of restaurants close by. The restrooms and showers were not clean and definitely could use some upkeep.

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  • Anchorage Review for Harris Saxon Bridge G45

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    3
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    2
    Wake Protection:
    2
    Scenic Beauty:
    2
    Ease of Shopping:
    3
    Shore Access:
    2
    Pet Friendly:
    2
    Cell Service:
    4
    WiFi:
    1

    Dropped hook here when we could not figure out where to anchor at sheephead cut. This is a relatively easy location to anchor but totally exposed to wakes and north south winds.

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  • Marina Review for Titusville Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    Stayed two nights on a mooring ball so we could go to the Kennedy Space Center. Not really protected on the ball, but not a bad location either. Would stop again.

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  • Bridge comment on Hubert Humphrey (FL 520) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Crossed under around mid-tide, but not much tide change here. Our 63' 8" mast and antenna cleared. Wind was south at 30 with 1-1.5 ft waves

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  • Bridge comment on Bennett Causeway Bridges

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Mar 23, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Reader board read 64', our 63'-8" mast and antenna cleared with a few inches to spare.

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  • Marina Review for Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    The dock hands were great and very helpful. We were on the face dock so some waves overnight. Cool little town to explore. Four stars because there were only two bathrooms and showers (they are working on a third) and they were not that nice, and were a long way from the dock. Definitely would be a nice $2/ft place.

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  • Marina Review for Jekyll Harbor Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Wow, what a neat location. Everyone should stop here and use the free bikes at the marina to explore the island and community. We did not take advantage of the restaurant. We were on the face dock and the waves were not too bad through the night. Great staff and dock hands.

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  • Marina Review for Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    These folks fit us in just before a storm hit. The location was fairly protected, facilities in good shape and dock master very helpful. Nice to have the courtesy car.

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  • Marina Review for Thunderbolt Marine

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    We had some sail drive problems. At first call Thunderbolt said calendar was full, but a few days later they called back with a schedule to get us in and the repairs done. This is a great facility with some pretty impressive equipment and capabilty. They were very professional and were able to get everything we needed done on time and at the quoted price.

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  • Marina Review for Safe Harbor Bahia Bleu

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Nice location, great staff, Becca was awesome. We left our boat here for one month and it was well taken care of. Only single suggestion is that the bathrooms could do with a daily cleaning. But we will go back.

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  • Marina Review for Sunbury Crab Co. Restaurant & Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great service. The restaurant was excellent. Also fun to walk around the community and explore the old cemetary. Four starts because only one shower and it is a long walk from the dock. All in all well worth the few miles off the ICW to explore and stay for a night.

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  • Bridge comment on Wilton J. Graves (U.S. 278) Hwy. Bridges

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Feb 2, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    We went under this bridge this morning. The tide board read 65 but we scraped our antenna and it is 63'-10" so our experience is that the tide board reads a bit over what the real clearance is.

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  • Marina Review for The Marina at Edisto Beach

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Feb 1, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    The owners are really nice, came back after closing to help us dock. Nice restaurant at the marina. Close to the beaches for great walking. We could not get the GFCI breakers to work with our cords so no power for us. Funny thing is we were at a marina last week that had GFCI breakers and our cords were fine. Also the wifi here was only one bar or less at our location. Finally the bathrooms were pretty rough, badly in need of a painting and some updates. They have just a small shower in each and we quickly ran out of hot water. Overall when comparing to the many other marinas we have stayed it was not worth the $2.50/ft.

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  • Anchorage Review for Tom Point Creek

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Jan 31, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    3
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    2
    Wake Protection:
    4
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    1
    Pet Friendly:
    1
    Cell Service:
    2
    WiFi:
    2

    Pulled in here in a 30 knot wind. A bit wild getting in and setting the anchor. We are a 42' cat and by the time we set the anchor we had used up most of the width of the channel. In hindsight we would have gone to Toogoodoo creek as it is wider or if there was time go further downstream to one of the other locations.

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  • Marina Review for North Myrtle Beach RV Resort and Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    What a great spot. While the guide says they don’t accept boats over 32 or 36 we called and asked and they had a face dock we could tie up to. We were able to dingy across the ICW and walk to West Marine and a longer walk to the beach. Nice hot tub that felt great each night.

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  • Marina Review for Wacca Wache Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Great little marina, they fit us in last minute. Very helpful staff. Reason for four stars was that the store and restaurant were closed for renovation. Once those are up and running, would definitely rate 5 stars.

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  • Marina Review for Leland Oil Company

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    What a nice little step back in time. Stopped for the night, docks were floating with good solid construction. Lacy the dockmaster was great. We loved walking to the 1000+ year old oak tree, that was worth the stop alone. The free laundry another plus. The bathrooms could use a cleaning, but don’t let that deter you from stopping. Also stopped by the shrimp docks and purchased some fresh shrimp and crab dip, wow so good. Definitely a great overnight on the ICW.

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  • Marina Review for Masonboro Yacht Club and Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 21, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    We were able to plead with David the dockmaster to get a slip during a pretty severe winter storm. But this facility is now a private yacht club and typically does not offer transient slips. Nice facility with clean restrooms and showers and laundry. We had to Uber to restaurants and shopping.

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  • Marina Review for River Dunes Marina at Grace Harbor

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 16, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    What a nice well protected marina. Scott the dockmaster was excellent to work with and offered advice about best way to secure boat. Really nice clean bathrooms and showers. The restaurant is excellent. A great place to stop for a day or week.

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  • Marina Review for Dowry Creek Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 14, 2022
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Left our catamaran here for three months. They took care of her, checking that was well every week. Were happy to accept a truckload of stuff we had shipped via Amazon for her. This a great marina!

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  • Marina Review for Dowry Creek Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Nov 11, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Much like a favorite fishing hole is a good to keep secret, I hesitate to tell people about this great little marina. We dropped our boat off here for a few months. These people are great to work with and run a first rate marina. We will be coming back in the future.

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  • Bridge comment on Wilkerson (US 264) Bridge

    Comment by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Nov 10, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'

    Our air draft is 63 plus 10" for antennas. The mast cleared but broke one antenna off. The board said 63.5' There is a reputed height board at mile marker 125, but it has weathered so bad it is not readable.

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  • Anchorage Review for Tilghman Creek

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Nov 3, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    3
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    3
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    4
    Scenic Beauty:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    1
    Shore Access:
    1
    Pet Friendly:
    2
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    1

    We were looking for some shelter from a southerly, and this did the job. We anchored out at the entrance to the little inlet. It was about 10' with good mud for holding. Great sunsets.

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  • Marina Review for Safe Harbor Zahnisers

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Nov 3, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    We were pleasantly surprised by this marina and town. The courtesy bikes were so nice to use to explore and get some exercise. The bathrooms and showers were clean and well maintained. Definitely will come back.

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  • Marina Review for Regatta Point Yachting Center (formerly Dozier's)

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Nov 3, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Wow what a great marina. The facilities were great, the location was easy to get in and out of. The service was very nice. Only complaint was no restaurant on premises and fuel was across the bay.

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  • Anchorage Review for Coan River - The Glebe

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Nov 3, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    3
    Holding:
    2
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    4
    Ease of Shopping:
    2
    Shore Access:
    1
    Pet Friendly:
    2
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    1

    Really quiet little cove to anchor. But we tried three times to get our anchor to hold and it would not. We were running out of light so just dropped a bunch of chain and that held through the night.

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  • Marina Review for Salt Ponds Marina

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Nov 3, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    We were worried about getting in but it turned out perfectly fine when we followed the beacons going in. It is a great location convenient to the bay but very protected. Staff were very accomodating.

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  • Anchorage Review for Barnegat Harbor - B

    Reviewed by: Bret Butler, Lucy 2, on Oct 21, 2021
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 43'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Overall Rating:
    4
    Holding:
    4
    Wind Protection:
    4
    Current Flow:
    4
    Wake Protection:
    3
    Scenic Beauty:
    3
    Ease of Shopping:
    2
    Shore Access:
    3
    Pet Friendly:
    3
    Cell Service:
    3
    WiFi:
    4

    Came in with west winds no problem. Stay on north side of entrance. 15+ feet all the way to back. Anchored in 15 ft. Held through the night, there were 6 other vessels tied to mooring balls. Did not see any other boat anchored. Arrived mid - October and the town is pretty much shut down with the exception of a nice little restaurant. Great protected place to spend the night.

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