Anchorage Review for Okatuppa Creek

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Dec 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

We anchored in the mouth of the creek. With our 14 ft beam boat, we did not feel confident going into the narrow creek due to overhanging trees. In depths of 9 ft of water we dropped 30 ft of chain. We set a stern anchor to minimize our swing. There were two tows that came through in the evening and early morning. One waked us pretty good and the second we felt no wake at all. Our anchors held us firm.

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Anchorage Review for Tensaw River

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Dec 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

We shared the anchorage with one other boat. Depth between 10 and 25 ft. Anchored in 22 ft of water. Holding was excellent with a mud bottom. On our stay there was zero traffic that came through the area. Satellite coverage for our dish was excellent. You did not verify the cell service in the area. Would definitely stop here again.

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Anchorage Review for Tombigbee Oxbow

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 27, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

We anchored 59 yards past the boat ramp. For folks who need to take their pet to shore the boat ramp is easy access but there is no ramp dock to tie your dinghy up to. Holding was excellent and the anchor came up clean. With our sonar we could see no debris on the bottom. Would definitely stay here again.

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Lock comment on Howell Heflin Lock and Dam

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 27, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Lockmaster was courteous and kept us informed as to when we would be able to lock through. There was a tow heading down bound before us. Once inside the lock the drop was smooth and uneventful.

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Lock comment on Fulton Lock & Dam

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 23, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Lock master was professional and courteous. We called ahead to let them know we were a party of four going southbound. The gate was open and they were ready for us as we approached. Locking was smooth and it took us approximately 30 minutes to complete locking through this lock.

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Lock comment on Glover Wilkins Lock & Dam

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 23, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Lockmaster West professional and courteous. Walking through was smooth and we were done quickly. Took us about 20 minutes to complete the lock.

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Lock comment on Pickwick Locks and Dam

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Lockmaster advised that in the large chamber, they would allow either port or starboard side tie up and recommended bollard two or seven as the smoothest ride up.

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Marina Review for Pebble Isle Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Nov 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Winter pool depths were shallow. We saw 2.2' under the hull within the marina. Stay in the marked channel all the way into the marina. Marina staff were friendly and accomodating. Reserving and using the courtesy van made shopping easy. Without the courtesy van there is not much to do in this area except check out the hiking trails. The daily cinn-i-buns make up for any shortcomings experienced here. We're definitely stay here again on our way through. Next time we'll make sure to plan a visit when the restaurant is open.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Pool level on 11/15/2024 was 355.49. Winter pool is 354.0.

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Anchorage Review for Double Islands

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Nov 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

At Winter pool we found 17 ft and center and 9 ft on the southern exit. Holding was good and the anchor came up clean. This area was quiet and peaceful. There was no cell service for T-Mobile. Starlink worked perfectly. The current in this area was essentially zero. Would definitely come back and spend another night here.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Pool level on 11/15/2024 was 355.49. Winter pool is 354.0.

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Free Dock Review for Peoria City Dock

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Oct 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

Touted a great stop for loopers with plenty of room, there is not. Only this location has the ability to take boats. From what we have been told by harbor host is that there is plenty of room on the outer wall. The only maintenance that appears to have been done is to resecure the docks in a manner that makes river side usage impossible. The hardware used to secure the dock is a boat killer. There are no cleats anywhere on the outside walls. This dockage is exposed to winds from the south and wakes.

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Marina Review for Henry Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Oct 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Whatever this marina is lacking, it is made up for by Fran. A wonderful owner/operator that goes out of her way to make sure your needs are met, even if that means driving you to dinner and back. She truly wants to make sure your stay is enjoyable and we can not put down in words how much we appreciate her and all she does.

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Marina Review for Heritage Harbor Ottawa

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Oct 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Approach depths with the Illinois River at a low stage was still 4 feet under the hull. Just like everyone before us, we had a great time with friendly helpful staff. There is not much more than can be said about Heritage Harbor that has not already been said. A must stop in our book.

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Marina Review for Lakeshore State Park Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Aug 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

We reserved a slip for our boat online with ease. The marina had 50 amp and 30 amp power pedestal. But there was no water hookup at all--which seemed really strange. The docks were in fair condition, a little worn. Some rub rails had become detached and were hanging from the dock. 10' depth was seen through the breakwater entrance to the slip. Overall, an excellent value for the prime location to Milwaukee. Would stay here again.

They had port-a-potties, but we didn't use them.

Since this location is in the heart of Milwaukee and next to a music venue there was some music and festivities heard throughout the evening. There were also several boats that use this area as a cruising-to-be-seen section of the river. Mostly small power boats and pontoon boats. The activity tapered off around 10:00 p.m. okay

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Anchorage Review for Mackinaw City

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

According to Navionics Charts this whole area has no anchoring icons, boxed with a restricted area border and displays the alert for no anchoring as it is a regulated navigation area under 33 CFR 165.944.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  CFR does state there are anchoring restrictions, but they apply to large commercial vessels.

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Free Dock Review for Guard Gate 2 - Free Dock

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jun 1, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

It is just a wall. Unable to locate any rings to tie up, but there are large bollards. With little to no current and no tides, it is a good place to stop so you are not heading into the sunset. Overall, it is what it is, like primitive camping but on a yacht with a generator and air conditioning.

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Anchorage Review for Colonial Beach

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Apr 30, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

This a small community with shops and restaurants available. The holding at this achorage was dismal. The bottom is almost like a jelly substance and even a 100 lb lewmar with 100ft of chain drug. The area is inundated with crab pots and the entry to this area is not very well marked. Crab pots, oyster fields and shallow areas make this a hazard to navigate.

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Marina Review for Fort Washington Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Feb 22, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 1

Entry depths are extremely shallow and the area has not been dredged in quite some time. The facilities are in a state of disrepair and the travel lift looks like it needs service. Entering into this area requires local knowledge of where the channel has shifted. Must be done at high tide if your draft is over 2 feet.

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Anchorage Review for Mattawoman Creek Bight

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 17, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Pulled into this anchorage in the late afternoon, dodging the strings of crab pots that stretch across the creek mouth, as reported in Navionics comments. Once in the creek, the crab pots lessen, but you still need to keep an eye out for them. Only one pontoon boat of fishers spotted in the area. They were quiet, kept their distance and left just before dusk. No other boat traffic was seen. The forest and beach were inviting. It appears you could go ashore, but we did not venture out. The evening insects were minimal, but we stayed behind our no-see-um screens just the same. The sunset and sunrise were both extraordinary. This was a peaceful and relaxing location during our one night stop. Water and winds were both calm. Protection from most winds can be found here. I suspect if winds are from the west, the water could be a bit choppy. Depths in this area are as reported. We saw between 5' and 8' under our hull. Would stay here again...no question.

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Bridge comment on Harry W. Nice Bridge

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 17, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'

We can confirm that the bridge is still under construction. Barges with cranes and their workers line the south side. Observe the speed limits to ensure you cause no issues for the hard workers.

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Anchorage Review for North Yeocomico River - Shannon Branch

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Pulled into the anchorage in the early afternoon and was able to see all of the white oyster bed sticks. Still plenty of room to anchor for several boats our size. Even though the river was a bit choppy, the afternoon and night at this achorage was peaceful with zero boat traffic and very calm waters. This achorage is protected from wind on all sides. Homes line the shore along with on seafood processing plant. Noise from the surrounding homes and plant was undetectable. Heard many seagulls and Osprey. Would stay here again when passing though.

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Marina Review for White Point Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Aug 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 1

Called multiple times over the phone to find out about coming in for a pumpout. No calls were returned. We ended up anchoring at the Shannon Branch, less then a mile away.

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Anchorage Review for Piankatank River - Fishing Bay

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Pulled into the fishing bay on a calm day. Took two attempts to set our scoop anchor. Once set, it held well. The bay and achorage depths seen were between 15 and 19 feet. We began to get sporadic shallow depth readings of between 1.5' to 5' at these coordinates: 37 degrees 032.483N 76 degrees 020.268W. Using our sonar, we could see a solid object under our boat. We used a telescoping pole to manually check the depths.
We never made contact with the object, but pulled in a foot of chain to ensure we were no longer over whatever it was. The afternoon and night were calm and peaceful. There were very few other boaters and all were very respectful. Minimal wakes were felt. We shared the anchorage with about 6 other boats with plenty of swing room. There is room for many other boats in this anchorage. Highly recommend this location.

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Anchorage Review for Morehead City - Sugar Loaf Island (south)

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 8, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

A little more exposed than previously reported. Our scoop anchor drug in the late evening due to a large boat wake. We were able to reset the the anchor about 15' away from the initial anchorage drop. It held without incident for the rest of the night. The night was very rolling due to the easterly wind exposure. Only one other boat in this anchorage. This anchorage s large enough to hold about 15 boats. Anchor came up clean. Appears to be a sandy bottom.

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Marina Review for R. E. Mayo Seafood Marine Supply

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Aug 8, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

We were in need of a fresh water fill up. The staff allowed us to just pop in and fill our tanks for free. So nice of them!
We purchased a bag of ice and profusely thanked them for their kindness. Then we were back on the AICW and headed toward our next anchorage in about 30 minutes.

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Marina Review for Osprey Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

This marina is a secluded quiet place to relax and rest for the night. Staff are friendly and helpful. Dock hands met us at the fuel dock to help tie up. Easy on/off the AICW. No current or wakes to deal with. Small convince store inside the office. Coin laundry available.There are no restaurants near by but several places offer delivery...see details in the care package provided by the marina. Wifi was excellent. Our stay was very peaceful. We would stay again, without hesitation. .

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Anchorage Review for Whiteside Creek

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Depths are shallower than reported. Bottom is mud and shell. Took us five attempts to set our scoop anchor. Strong current but easy on/off access to the AICW. Overnight bugs were minimal but in the morning, lots of mosquitoes came out for breakfast.

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Anchorage Review for Whiteside Creek

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Aug 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Depths are shallower than reported. Bottom is mud and shell. Took us five attempts to set our scoop anchor. Strong current but easy on/off access to the AICW. Overnight bugs were minimal but in the morning, lots of mosquitoes came out for breakfast.

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Anchorage Review for Pine Island Loop

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 30, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Arrived expecting the worst, but found the best. Saw only one crab pot at the back of the achorage. Shallow entry (5') at low tide. Anchored in 8' depths MLW. Only boat in that anchorage. Reported abandoned boats have been removed. Room for at least 10 other boats in this area.

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Free Dock Review for Metropolitan Park Marina - Temporarily Closed for Renovation

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 30, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

Free dockage for up to 72 hours. Electric and water on docks. There is a park next to docks, but there seem to be quite a few homeless folks residing there.. Check the city event calendar or speak with the dockmaster to determine if you'll need to pay for dockage. They charge during big events. Best to arrive at slack as current can be strong and make docking interesting. Free pump out. Was not crowded during our stay.
Construction in the area and no nearby shopping amenities. Restaurants and bars around the stadium seem to only be open during the evening or stadium events. Marina does get a fair amount of wake from passing boats. Slips closest to the land are only recommended for boats with a 2' or less draft. At low tide birds were standing in these slips. For boats with 5'+ draft use the inside wall opposite the water taxis. Current brings in debris from the river. During our stay we removed a couple of logs, 2x4's and a wooden bar stool from under our swim platform. Afterwards, we moved to the wall, mentioned previously, and had no other issues.

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Anchorage Review for Cumberland River

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 30, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Good overall holding (mud). Far enough off the AICW that wakes were not an issue. No wind protection. The moderate currents 1-2 kts and wind from the south can put the chop on your beam, making for a really rolly night. There are minimal lights from cities making the star gazing awesome. Not crowded. Anchorage only had one other boat. Plenty of room for 10-12 boats.

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Anchorage Review for South Bay Basin

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 14, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

We saw depths of 8 to 10' entering the cut to the anchorage. It took 3 tries to get our anchor set. But once set, the holding was good. Cell service (T-mobile/Sprint)was just so-so. 3 bars 5G or sometimes 4G. Lake stage was at 12.99' during our stay. It was a very peaceful overnight with birds and frog sounds too lull you to sleep.

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Anchorage Review for Longboat Key South of R40

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jul 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Follow the charts closely. Low tide exposes land just to the east of the anchor locations. MLW showed 6.6 feet on Navionics and we recorded 5 feet. This was a very crowded anchor with long term boats in the area but good for overnight if you can find the space. Sand bar party spots are to the north and east but quiet after sunset. The restaurant has docks for small boats and seems to be very popular.

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Anchorage Review for Dog Island - Shipping Cove

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on Jun 2, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Stayed here waiting on weather. Good holding, excellent depths. Lots of stars and relaxing sound of Gulf the other side of a short dune. You can get close enough to swim to shore. Minimal small boat traffic in the area and no crab pots, yet.

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Free Dock Review for Boomtown Casino

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on May 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 1

It's free but at what cost. The area is shallow, the tie up is just rusty metal and there is no protection from weather or traffic. We took one look and decided that Boomtown does not want boaters business and quickly left.

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Lock comment on Algiers Lock

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on May 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Navionics App & charts state that there is a shallow area available to.anchor with the lock masters permission on the North side of the channel. This area has quickly changing depths with high spots under 2 feet surrounded by areas of 5 plus feet. More like a maze than an open area.

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Lock comment on Inner Harbor Navigation Canal (Industrial) Lock

Comment by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on May 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

On 05/22/2022 our vessel swung into the concrete blocks (not vlocks) after the wind and prop wash from a tug pushed us. There should have been sufficient space to account for this but there was not. We called for TowboatUS assist and when they arrived, we were advised the hazards were not clearly marked, along with a tug boat captain telling over the radio the area was very shallow.

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Marina Review for Seabrook Harbor & Marine

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on May 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Short overnight emergency stay at fuel dock. Staff was very nice, facilities were well kept. Yard services was short handed but made time to help us with a quick haul to access damage to a prop.

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Marina Review for Point Cadet Marina

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup , Viatori, on May 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

A nice marina with fixed dock transient slips. The piles felt a little low and if not for an old screw we felt like our lines would have slipped over the top. Docking for transient is east to west so the south winds made it a little rolling at times. Facility was clean and staff were friendly but there is some maintenance items for the docks that need to be addressed.

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Anchorage Review for Blind Rigolets

Reviewed by: Cam & Jennifer Canup, Viatori, on May 19, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.0'

This anchorage was a peaceful and relaxing stay. The holding was good and light winds provided a cool breeze for the evening. Only one train came through over the evening and small fishing bosts didn't come through until 7a. We found depths of 16-17 feet on average. Highly recommend overnighting here.

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