Reviews from David Gallus (2)
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Marina Review for Naples City Dock
Reviewed by:
David Gallus
, Curious,
on Jan 24, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.0'Rating: 5
Jake and Sidney were excellent dock masters; always accommodating and eager to help. The facility was clean and kept in tip-top condition. Our take out food at "The Dock" restaurant adjoining the Marina was excellent .
Local shopping is in easy walking distance.View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
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Marina Review for Alligator River Marina
Reviewed by:
David Gallus
, Curious,
on Dec 7, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.0'Rating: 5
I had a unique situation, I am sure. I had broken down numerous times, with engine problems crossing The Albemarle Sound. I am single-handing; the only crew is my 97 year old mother, with a heart condition-she can't help at all.
I lost my two good anchors, having to cut them due to strong wind and wave action. The first anchor which I set to hold while effecting repairs. After getting started and with no crew to steer, I couldn't ride up on the anchor to break it loose, the boat kept falling off; the wind and waves were too strong. That was my big Danforth anchor. I broke down again about half way across. I then set my big CQR anchor with 60 ft of chain and 5/8" line.
Attempting repairs again was impossible because the weather got worse and my Mother being sea sick, with a heart condition, I called for a tow. I was told it was too rough to come out, and with darkness soon, I would have spend the night on The Sound. I don't think my Mother would have lasted; I had to call the Coast Guard. A crew was dispatched and was on-scene within 1 hour. The crew was very professional and took me in tow with one of their crew onboard with me. Even their best efforts to raise my anchor failed and we had to cut my 2nd anchor. They towed me to The Alligator River Marina where I spent the next 8 days, making repairs and getting supplies. I was so relieved to get to the safe harbor. During that time I could watch The Albemarle Sound boil while I lay on the very protected sea-wall, inside the jetty. I was treated so well it was almost embarrassing. The manager of the Marina, Charles Mc Kenney, contacted West Marine and ordered the ground tackle, made a separate trip to NAPA auto supplies for fuel filters, delivered everything to me on my boat and even offered to grocery shop for me. He even saved me money by using his influence with the distributors. He couldn't have been more helpful. And this generosity was extended from his staff as well; all were very accommodating and helpful. One employee especially was Lisa; my Mother needed medication so I had it sent to the Marina where Lisa delivered it to the boat but then she drove me the 20 miles to town to grocery shop while the rest of the crew covered for her. I can't say enough good about how I was treated by everyone at the Alligator River Marina. Thank you all.View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
