Free Dock Review for Mechanicville Terminal Wall

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Nov 30, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed with another boat June 1, 2022. Plenty of room to tie to the wall which is in good shape. Plenty of cleats as well as recessed ladders to the top of the wall. At least six power pedestals with water taps. 30 amp power so we used our smart Y to get 50 amp/240V. Two clean bathrooms with nice showers (basic but clean with lots of hot water). The pump out was not working due to a part on order. An easy walk to restaurants, a bakery, drug stores, laundromat, etc. The wall is free with a max stay of three days. This is a worthwhile stop.

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Marina Review for Crosswinds Marine Service

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Sep 8, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed here for 3 weeks starting mid-August of 2022. Once clearing the inlet from Lake Michigan it's about 4 or 5 miles to the marina. There was plenty of depth all the way in to our slip which near the end of A (the first as you approach) dock. We didn't need fuel but they had diesel at at good price. Their dockage rates were also quite reasonable. The docks were in good repair and the 50A shore power worked fine. The restrooms/showers were clean. There is a small ships store at the office. It's only a two block walk to a very good sandwich & salad restaurant. Breweries (3), pharmacy, groceries and more restaurants are also within walking or easy biking distance. The towns of Whitehall and Montague are both small and full of friendly locals. We liked this place a lot.

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Marina Review for Killarney Mountain Lodge

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Aug 7, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We stayed three nights in early August of 2022 waiting for weather to clear. The dock staff and harbor master were extremely competent and very responsive to questions and requests. Reasonably priced pumpouts. The resort had a nice assortment of restaurants and it's an easy walk to the town center for other options. It's a hike to the restrooms/showers which were perpetually sopping wet because they're shared with all the swimming pool users. The single unisex restroom at the nearby resort coffee shop helped but was quite busy at times. The WiFi didn't work on the docks and was slow even in the resort. Cell service was 3 bars so that served us well. The large washer and dryer were free but continuously busy as only one machine each and they appear to serve the entire resort. Our strategy to try and wash at 5am paid off. Overall a pretty good stop but the resort csn be very busy.

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Marina Review for Blind River Marine Park

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Aug 7, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We stayed here one night in early August of 2022. This marina has a good jetty to protect from waves off the North Channel. The marina has under gone major renovations that are nearly complete. The docks are all new with 30A pedestals where we used our Smart-Y adapter. The sidewalks are about 75% complete from the docks to the restrooms/showers. Rebar and forms appear to be in place for the final pour of sidewalk concrete. The restrooms were clean. There's a small museum and gift shop at the marina office. A ships store is nearby. The town center is about a 20 minute walk and has a few restaurants, pharmacy, and groceries. WiFi was being repaired and only worked near the marina office. Cell service was pretty good at the docks. This is a good place to stop but only 4 stars until the rest of the upgrade work is done.

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Anchorage Review for The Pool-Baie Fine

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Aug 7, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We stayed here one night in early August of 2022. The challenge of getting back into the "pool" as it's known is the shallow water entering the cut from Baie Fine. The CruisersNet broadcast that morning said the lake was 2 feet 7 inches above datum. We approached the cut slowly and coasted in neutral through the shallowest 20-30 yards. We were careful to stay right in the center of the navigation contours and saw a minimum of 10 feet. From there it was a scenic slow cruise back to the pool. There were about a half dozen boats already at anchor with lots of room between them. We dropped hook at the farthest northeast end of the pool in 8 feet of water. Good mud with only moderate weediness comprised the bottom. The wind was quiet so we never really tested the holding. We had zero cell service so get a weather update before heading in for the night. The hike to Topaz Lake takes 20 minutes from the dock area. The dock itself is a shambles but there's plenty of room for dinghies to tie up. Take bug spray for the hike. Note that it's a bit of a scramble down to the edge of Topaz Lake but you can have pretty good views without doing so. The pool is a very popular and very pretty anchorage best enjoyed without generators between 8pm and 7am. (IMHO, if you cannot go that long without running a generator, then perhaps it would be best to anchor outside the cut in Baie Fine and dinghy back to the pool. Please don't ruin the magic of the quiet for others by running a generator.)

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Anchorage Review for Snug Harbour

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 29, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We anchored here one night with two other boats in late July, 2022. We anchored north and nortwest of Westyle Island, making sure we didn't block the channel. The forecast for strong winds didn't materialize so we couldn't really check holding but all three of our anchors bit well on the first try. Anchors came up clean the next morning. There are a lot of cottages lining the harbor and on the two islands but our buddy boat was able to find a small spot on shore for his dog to do its business. There is a finger that runs east, opposite the main entry to the harbor. At the head of this quarter mile finger there is a public dinghy dock. From the dock it's about 100 yards to Gilly's Restaurant which serves the best fish-n-chips I think I've ever had. All fresh fish (perch, lake trout, whitefish, or pickerel/walleye) either deep fried or pan fried (ask your server which is best for which fish). So, the anchorage is 4 stars but Gilly's is 5 large golden stars.

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Anchorage Review for Unnamed Island-Twelve Mile Bay

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 27, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Actually, this anchorage is well known by the name Wani Bay. It's popular amongst locals and Loopers. We stayed on a Tuesday night in late July, sharing the bay with a buddy boat and six sailboats. There was plenty of room for another 6-8 boats. Mind the charted, very visible rocks on port as you enter. There is another rock inside the bay that is charted and marked by a buoy. That rock is near the surface as we saw a couple of the sailboaters standing on it (the water was too cold for us to swim over to it). Our 44 lb. Rocna anchor bit instantly and held well but then winds were light during our stay. Anchor and rode came up quite clean. There are low rocks on the shore at several locations where we saw people taking dogs to do their business. Mosquitos were heavy but that's true at all anchorages around this area this time of year. Good Verizon signal. Enjoy the quiet and sunset.

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Marina Review for Starport Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 26, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed here one night in late July, 2022. There were strong gusting winds as we came into the fuel dock but there were three, very well trained dock staff waiting for us as we came in. They were quick to grab our ready lines and had us securely tied in just moments, much to my relief. They were quick getting us fueled up and pumped out and into our slip. The marina store had swag and knick-knacks as well as a number of tempting provisions including fresh salads, wagyu beef burgers, ribs, frozen pizza and more. The restrooms and showers were in a new building with a boater's lounge, all were spic-and-span clean. BBQ grills were also available but we didn't use them. A resort with a nice restaurant that welcomes boaters was an easy walk away. From the restaurant, an LCBO liquor store was across the street and another restaurant and a general store with basic groceries was a little further down the street. Overall, this is a good stop and a very well run marina.

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Marina Review for Port of Orillia

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Spent two nights here at the end of July, 2022. Easy to make a reservation. Inside the break walls there was a lot of vegetation which resulted in wacky depth readings but there was no issue with actual depth. Docks in very good condition. However, all the cleats fold down flat. Although that reduces trip hazards it almost necessitates that someone be on the dock to help by flipping up the cleats. There's a nonrefundable CA$10 charge to get a key card for the restrooms/showers. Restrooms/showers are new and spotlessly clean. Restaurants, groceries, hardware, pharmacy, etc. within walking distance of the marina. This is a good place to stop before pushing through the last four locks before Georgian Bay.

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Lock comment on Lock 39 Portage

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Spent one night here above the lock because the other locks toward Simcoe Lake were full; we all were waiting for the strong winds to die down on the lake. Picnic tables readily available but newly planted trees meant there was more shade below the lock. Only room for 2 boats our size above the lock. Very peaceful setting. An easy half mile walk to the next lock which can be seen from this lock.

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Lock comment on Lock 36: Kirkfield

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

The prior comments still apply but the mentioned restaurant is closed. Very good wind protection below the lock. Room for 6-8 boats below the lock and about as many above. Need to walk up a flight of steps to take a dog to where there is suitable grass to do its business. Interesting placards about the lift lock and its construction.

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Lock comment on Lock 35 Rosedale

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

The prior comments are still accurate but it is now $3 per person to use the showers. There are plenty of picnic tables and lots of shade. The water was pretty clean and locals enjoyed a swim above the lock after operations ceased for the day. This was a peaceful, very lovely place to spend time.

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Lock comment on Lock and Dam 34 Fenelon Falls

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We stayed here on a Monday in late July, 2022. The lower wall was full but we were able to grab the last power pedestal at the end of the wall near the open swing bridge. Lots of friendly people walked by and stopped to chat. Many establishments were closed on Monday but there were still a couple of options so dining was not a problem. Power became unstable in the middle of the night and repeatedly tripped our Smart-Y to the point where I had to disconnect from shore power. By morning I was able to connect again for a while to partially charge batteries. Nevertheless, this was a good stop overall.

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Lock comment on Lock and Dam 31 Buckhorn

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

The prior comments are still accurate. We came in on a mid-July Sunday when the weather was warm and sunny. The lock was extremely busy and the Parks Canada staff did a great job of keeping everyone calm and smiling in spite of the very busy, and sometimes erratic, boat handling. Although very busy during the day, it quieted down by the time the lock closed. No water or showers but there is access to restrooms overnight. Good Verizon cell service.

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Lock comment on Lock and Dam 30 Lovesick

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We stayed here on a Saturday in mid-July. The day was warm, the skies were clear, and the locals were out in great numbers enjoying it all. We were the first of 3 Loopers locking through around 1:30pm. The bottom wall was full as was the upper wall but we were able to talk to some of the boaters on the upper gray wall and they were really polite and rearranged their boats so we could tie in. One boat with us pushed on to Buckhorn hoping to find space. The other boat with us dropped anchor about a quarter mile away and waited for the lock to close at 6:30pm, then he tied to the blue line. This is a pretty setting but VERY popular on weekends, we were lucky to have been able to stay. As usual, the Parks Canada staff was great. Houseboats are a moving hazard and we were barely able to push one off to keep it from hitting us. The bow rider tied in front of us was not as lucky. Only one shared bathroom was available for all the boaters and overnight tent campers when we were there. Nonetheless, a quiet, peaceful night's rest. 4 stars.

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Lock comment on Lock And Dam 24 Douro

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

This is a very pretty, quiet setting to overnight. There are spotless bathrooms available and staff will give you a key to use overnight. For CAD$3 the staff will also give you a key to spotlessly clean showers. Lots of shade and picnic tables to lounge at while watching other boats lock through. The Parks Canada staff was very friendly and knowledgeable of the history of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

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Lock comment on Lock 21 Peterborough Lift Lock

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

This is an amazing lock. All the more so because it's 118 years old. It takes more time to get tied in than the 90 second ride to the top. If you're afraid of heights, face the lock tower going up. Very limited space to tie up above the lock so take pix as you go as the wall may be full.

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Lock comment on Lock 20 Ashburnham

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

There is room to tie up on both sides of the lower lock walls with grassy areas, shade trees, and picnic tables. The Trans-Canada Trail crosses the lock. Walking distance to bakery, groceries and restaurants in Ashburn. A bit further will take you to downtown Peterborough.

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Marina Review for Peterborough Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed one night in mid-July of 2022. It was necessary to complete an online form including proof of insurance to make a reservation. The marina spotted us coming across the lake and hailed us rather than the other way around so they were paying attention. It was easy to dock for fuel and pump out before going to our slip. Although a bit weedy, the fairways were in good condition and depth for our draft. Nice docks with 50A power and tremendous water pressure on the docks. Boater restrooms/showers were clean. Easy walk to all groceries, bakeries, restaurants, etc. One can see the east wall on the low side of Ashburn Lock/Lock 19 so it's easy to time departure from the marina so as to avoid having to hold station out in the lake waiting for the lock to open. This is a good place to dtop for a night or two.

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Lock comment on Lock 6 Frankford

Comment by: Roger S. on Jul 10, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

The prior comment from 2018 is still accurate. This is a very quiet stop. The Lock staff gave us a key to the restrooms for use overnight. This is a good place to overnight.

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Marina Review for Prince Edward Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 10, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed here one night in early July, 2022. We planned to grab a mooring ball but upon arrival were told our 40 foot Mainship was too big. Fortunately, with the help of a couple of PEYC members we knew, the club made room for us in a very nice slip. We easily fit and there was good 30A power for our Smart-Y adapter. The town of Picton was lovely with restaurants, groceries, and other services within walking distance. Too bad we couldn't stay a second night.

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Marina Review for Len's Cove Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jul 10, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

After a momentary (90 seconds?) lapse of attention not far above locks 14,15,16, both our props found the famous rocks lining the Rideau Canal. We called everyone between Ottawa and Kingston and only Len's Cove was sure that they could haul our 40 foot Mainship and make repairs. Due to vibration we had a slow couple of days to reach Portland. Len's Cove was ready to haul us the moment we arrived. The damage was ascertained, both props and a strut needed to be pulled and sent out for repairs. Since we couldn't stay on our boat during repairs, Len's Cove rented us one of their cabins and we enjoyed Canada Day and a week there. There are a couple of restaurants nearby (highly recommend Recess Cafe), a small but adequately stocked grocery store, a liquor store, and a Post Office. There's also a cheese shop and bakery an hour's walk away in Forfar. Upon receipt of our repaired parts from the prop shop, Len's Cove had us back on the water with reasonably priced fuel, pumped out and full water tanks. Our advice? Stay in the channel and stop at Len's Cove Marina.

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Lock comment on Lock 32 Poonamalie

Comment by: Roger S. on Jun 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

A very pretty setting with picnic tables, grills for charcoal, and plenty of room for the dog to run. 30A power above the lock.

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Lock comment on Locks 8 - 1, Ottawa Flight

Comment by: Roger S. on Jun 21, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Parks Canada operates the locks and slso manages the dock walls above the locks. There is a nominal charge for the 30 amp power which is a bit obscure but plentiful along the dock walls (look for gray outlet covers at the base of dock fence pillasters. This is a fantastic place to dock for the night with room for ~20 boats.

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Lock comment on Lock 17 Burritts Rapids

Comment by: Roger S. on Jun 21, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

There's a 200 foot dock with 30 amp power below the lock. A wall with new outlets above the lock could hold 3 boats. Use of the dock and wall is covered by a Parks Canada Pass. Power costs extra based on the number of outlets used. So, we were charged 2x the usual C$10 for power. Lots of mosquitos but the it is the first day of summer.

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Marina Review for Yacht Club Montreal

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jun 17, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed for two nights in mid-June 2022. This is a very nice setting, right under the historic clock tower. It was a bit of a challenge getting through the strong downstream current and over to the entrance of the marina but once at the jetties, the current died and it was easy to maneuver in to our slip. The fairways are adequate width but the slips are quite narrow with no protective piling between boats so if you're uncertain of your docking ability, have fenders down on both sides coming in. The docks are nice but the finger docks are very narrow (~18 inches) which was problematic for our buddy boat's dog. Also, there is not a good place nearby to walk a dog other than the parking lot. Good power and water. The laundry is reasonably priced, the restrooms/showers very clean. Only a short walk to Old Port Montreal and metro. This marina is exceptionally well priced given the many amenities; we've paid much more for far less elsewhere. This is a five star place to stay in a five star city.

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Lock comment on Carillon Lock

Comment by: Roger S. on Jun 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We locked through upbound on June 16, 2022. The water levels were up making the approach past the dam to the lock entry a little tricky with swirling water. The water level was so high that the dock at the blue line was submerged. The Lock Master promptly answered my hail on channel 68 in excellent English. He inquired about our boat's dimensions as well as those of our 2 buddy boats. He provided clear instructions on how to enter the lock with two of us rafting together (called shoulder mooring here). The lock has a floating dock on the upbound starboard side. After tying off it was a smooth, easy lift of 62 feet. The Lock Master also provided us with very useful weather and navigation information for the remainder of our travel that day.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Gaines

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jun 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed two nights in early June as weather slowed our moving north. The staff was very responsive on the phone and VHF. The dock hands were well trained and the fuel and pump out equipment was in top shape. The docks were in excellent condition and the boaters lounge very comfortable. The new bathrooms were not yet completed so it was a bit of a walk to the existing ones which were spic-and- span clean. An easy walk to a first rate Italian restaurant. This place is 5 gold stars on the border.

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Anchorage Review for Kingsland Bay

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jun 4, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Based on reviews on our navigation software, we came in with a buddy boat to escape 22 MPH gusting to 30 MPH winds. We were very disappointed to find that all the water in the bay less than 20 feet deep was foul with private mooring balls. Our buddy boat managed to set anchor between the mooring field and the sand beach to the south with a short, all chain rode. We tried 5 times but our chain plus rope rode required more swing room than the mooring field and other floating obstacles would allow. With 2 hours to go before sunset we weighed anchor and headed for Vergennes. As we left, two sail boats were frantically trying to find a place to set anchor. Our buddy boat was able to take his dog to a low, flat rock on the southwest end of the bay. It's a pretty locale but unsuitable for anchoring in anything but calm wind so you can get by with a 3:1 rode.

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Marina Review for Manteo Waterfront Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 27, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

The morning of our arrival the marina sent an email with clear information, instructions and a video for how to approach the marina through the shallow waters of Shallowbag Bay. We called the Dock Master as we approached and he confirmed our slip number that was included in the email. A couple of Loopers helped us get tied in. We asked about a rental car to go see Kitty Hawk the next day. The Dock Master said to call the local Ford dealer. We did and got a very comfortable Ford Fusion for $65 plus tax for a day. This is a great little town worth a few days to explore.

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Free Dock Review for Douglas Landing

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 27, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Stayed 4/25/2022, arriving in the middle of a warm afternoon. Had the 60' face dock to ourselves; the angled 25' side dock is obstructed by a small tree. The restrooms were closed and water off and apparently have been for some time. Perhaps they'll open later in the season. Three picnic tables and a couple of trash cans were available. There's a paved road that's closed to motorized vehicles so we only saw walkers and a dozen or more bicyclists go by (most were disappointed by the closed restrooms). Unlike most of the Dismal Swamp Canal, the sound of traffic was barely audible in the distance. The evening was calm and the night was quiet. Lots of bird songs at dawn. From here an easy run north to make the 8:30am Deep Creek bridge & lock opening. This is a good stop.

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Marina Review for River Forest Boatyard/Shipyard

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 21, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Needing a haul out to repair a small thru hole in our bilge, address a vibration on our port side, and replace seals on our shaft logs, I called practically every boatyard between Jacksonville, FL and Hampton, VA and no one would commit to helping us out for almost 3 months. I spoke with Axson at River Forest Boatyard and he assured me that he would take care of us as soon as we could get our boat from Florida up to Belhaven, NC. Upon arrival, weather delayed our haul out by a day. Once on the hard inspection confimed the port prop was slightly bent and starboard was questionable. The props were off in 30 minutes and on their way to a top notch prop yard in Norfolk, VA. River Forest had a driver at the prop shop ready to pick them up the moment the work was done a day later. All the other repairs, which were much more involved than expected, were done when the props arrived back at River Forest and we were splashed and on our way. Total time on the hard was ~48 hours. We stayed on our boat the whole time which River Forest accommodated with power, rest room and outdoor shower. The final bill was very reasonable. Plus, we were allowed to do some of our own work while in their yard. We cannot say enough about River Forest Boatyard and their determination to help boaters any way they can.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Charleston City

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We did a four night stay tied on the inside of the Megadock. We were in the second to last slip which meant we were more than a quarter mile from the restrooms, showers, and laundry. Perhaps that's just as well because there are so many wonderful restaurants in Charleston the extra walking is necessary anyway. A large storm blew through one night with sustained winds of 45 MPH and gusts clocking over 70 MPH. Staff came around prior to the storm to ensure extra lines were deployed and came around shortly after the storm to check and make sure everyone was okay. This is an extremely well run marina.

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Marina Review for Ocean Isle Marina & Yacht Club

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed on a cool Sunday night. Easy to tie up on the outside dock. Wakes were minimal as almost all of the passersby slowed when they saw our red trawler. The docks are in very good shape, the restrooms/showers were absolutely spotless. Staff was very helpful and friendly. Courtesy bicycles available to go to a restaurant or grocery store. Fuel was a good price but we didn't need any. Our 40 feet was probably the max they can handle so call ahead to confirm if you're larger than 40 feet.

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Marina Review for Lady's Island Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We stayed here on a Sunday night in early April. Plenty of water on the way in and out, even at 90 minutes past low tide we saw no less than 10 feet of water. Floating docks in good shape, no issues with power and water. Restrooms, showers and laundry very clean and an easy walk from our slip. Multiple restaurants and a Publix within walking distance.

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Marina Review for Boathouse Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Mar 26, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We enjoyed this stop. The docks are fixed, wooden and a bit aged but they are sturdy and recently painted. Restroom/shower facilities are dated but clean. Washer and dryer looked in good condition and other transient boaters used them. Easy walking distance to Florida's oldest diner (be sure to order a pusalow), a brewery, and a few other shops and restaurants.

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Anchorage Review for Mill Cove - Doctors Lake

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Mar 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We dropped anchor about 150 yards beyond the icon in 9 feet of water to be better protected from a southeast wind. This was a Monday night. A couple of jet skis zipped by and a fishing boat puttered through but all was quiet before sunset. We did not try to go ashore which looks to all be private property. The anchor bit quickly and we sat still all night with 7:1 rode. It came up with loose mud easily washed off with raw water the next morning. This is a very nice area to anchor.

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Marina Review for Palm Cove Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Mar 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We came on a mid-falling tide with a southwest wind which made getting into our slip pretty tricky. Our advice is to arrive at or near slack. We left shortly after a -0.31 foot low tide and saw no less than 5.2 feet of water, that just north of red 12. It's a good location with Publix, Walgreens and several restaurants within walking distance. The facilities were clean, laundry $1 per load, the staff was helpful. They have gas and diesel at a mid-range price but we didn't need any. At trawler speed it's only an hour north to the St. Johns River so easy to time the tidal current there.

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Marina Review for Halifax Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Mar 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Helpful, knowledgeable and friendly staff in office and on dock. Nice facilities, multiple restaurants within walking distance. Easy access to fuel & pumpout dock.

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Free Dock Review for Guntersville City Harbor

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Oct 18, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We stopped one night with a buddy boat. Free dock in good condition. 10+ feet of water entering between the floating breakwaters. 6.5 feet at the dock. No water or power but docks in good shape with plenty of cleats. A public access dock so a few folks walked by, just curious to look at the two Mainships. There were two well maintained porta-potties on shore, not sure they're always available. Traffic on nearby highway quieted down at night. Easy walk to downtown restaurants although many closed on Sunday. Lots of construction going on to upgrade the harbor so this place will be changing soon.

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Free Dock Review for Ingalls Harbor

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Oct 18, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We stayed here one night with two other Loopers. We saw no less than 8.5 ft. of water and that was near the No Wake buoy at the entrance. Beautiful new floating docks, we tied on the east side as that provided easy access to a large green area for a buddy boat's dog. Room for lots of boats. The harbor kept us well clear of the barge traffic that ran all night. Very clean restrooms were also nearby the east dock. We did not try walking into town. Four stars only because of no water or power but then the dock was free. We were upbound so hailed the Decatur railroad bridge as we came out of the harbor and it was open when we got to it.

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Marina Review for Pebble Isle Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Oct 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Although the restaurant was closed for the season, it is a good stop by most measures. Great fuel price. BoatUS discount on dockage. Adequate showers and restrooms. Courtesy car (van actually) for running to Walmart. Docks in pretty good shape with good 240V/50A power. Pretty setting. Be sure to closely follow the private markers in from the river as it shoals quickly outside the channel. At winter pool the shallowest water we saw was near the fuel dock at 6 feet. Nice selection of marina branded clothing in the ship's store.

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Marina Review for Hoppie's Marine Service

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Sep 27, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 3

Although the staff was courteous and quite helpful getting us safely tied up there is little to be said in favor of this marina other than being a stop between Alton and Kaskaskia Lock. Hoppies's is charging a premium price yet there are no toilets, no showers, the barges/dock are full of serious trip hazards and passing barges rocked us pretty hard throughout the night. No need to stop again and if one is able to clear the Alton Lock in good time, push on to Kaskaskia Lock and give this former icon a miss.

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Anchorage Review for Bar Island

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Sep 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We approached from the south and saw no less than 9 feet water. Five of us anchored with room for at least 2 more boats. Plenty of swing room even at 7:1scope. Wake protection is pretty good as long as you're truly behind the island. Good stop.

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Anchorage Review for Willow Island

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Sep 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Anchored here one night with three other boats. We approached from the south and saw no less than 11 feet of water to near the mid point of the island. Another trawler approached from the north and reported 12 foot minimum water. Excellent holding in thick dark clay-like mud which took time to clean when we weighed anchor. 300 feet bank to bank provided good swing room. Kampsville is a short dinghy ride upstream but we did not check it out. This anchorage is a gem.

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Marina Review for Cedarville Municipal Harbor

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Aug 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

The 14 slip dock was finished last year and is in terrific shape. We had no difficulty with depth coming in but vegetation made readings a little erratic. The restrooms/showers are all brand new. A great little restaurant next to the marina served excellent fresh lake fish. The is also a brewery and distillery in town. A grocery store is a few blocks from the water. The location is very quiet in a pretty setting and within dinghy distance of hiking trails on the islands. This little gem will be a popular stop soon.

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Free Dock Review for Lock CS1, Cayuga

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jun 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 3

Spent one night on the east wall just south of the lock as we wanted an early start the next morning to be ahead of predicted winds on Cayuga Lake. Concrete wall with rings that you must tie to. The wall is a bit rough so have your fenders out. There is a picnic table and grill nearby in the shade of a large tree. By late afternoon this became a popular place for fishermen to stand and the adjacent boat ramp and parking lot were busy. There was a lot of activity near our boat after dark until midnight (fishing, people sitting in their car chatting with headlights pointed at our boat, firecrackers, etc.). A very bright vapor light next to the wall attracted a lot of bugs. No protection from south winds which pounds water against the wall. All-in-all, however, we were safely tied, the area was pretty, and the lockmasters were pleasant and informative.

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Marina Review for Blain's Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Jun 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

Due to rain and a fast approaching line of thunder storms we ducked into Blain's Bay Marina for the night. They were quick to answer our hail and cautioned us about the shallow approach. We got erratic depth readings on the way in likely due to considerable water vegetation. The water was quite skinny so we tied at the outside end of the first dock. There was little wind with the rain which was good as the docks are not anchored well enough to hold a boat our size in a strong cross wind. The manager verified as much. $2 per foot included water and 30A electricity (we used a Smart-Y to get 50A/240V). Bathrooms and shower were clean. We didn't ask about restaurants but they did have a few items in a small ship's store. Good place to pull in if you're not too big and draw no more than about 4 feet.

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Marina Review for Urbanna Boat Yard and Marina (URBBY)

Reviewed by: Roger S. on May 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

Great place to stop. Nice floating docks, beautiful clean bathrooms and showers. Easy walk to numerous restaurants, coffee shop and market. This place is a gem that we will return to.

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Marina Review for Dowry Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

We spent six nights here to rest and wait for a weather window. We liked everything about this place. Excellent customer service by all staff members, free laundry, fresh towels in showers, very peaceful setting, courtesy car, and a well stocked ship store/market. The rates are very reasonable as was the price of diesel.

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Anchorage Review for Bonner Bay - Long Creek

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Apr 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.6'

We stayed one night on April 16, 2021. The crab pots were very dense across the entire body of water making it difficult to find enough room to swing even with less than 5:1 scope.

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Anchorage Review for South Newport River- Wahoo River

Reviewed by: Roger S. on Mar 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

We came in at high tide slack and had plenty of depth all the way in. Lots of dolphins greeted us as we cruised in. Dropped anchor in 21' water. There was zero breeze from arrival until we left an hour after high tide the next morning; thank goodness for the Thermacell to keep the no-see-ums at bay. For Georgia, the current was very mild and there were no wakes, we had the anchorage to ourselves. The shore by the trees looked accessible but without a dog we had no need to try. Pretty good Verizon cell service. A pretty sunset, dead quiet all night, and a gorgeous sunrise to start our next day's voyage.

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Marina Review for River House Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. , Betty Gail, on Feb 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We stopped for one night on our way west to east across the Okeechobee Waterway. There is 400 feet of new and refurbished dock and the owner met us to help us tie up at the new dock. 50A power and good water pressure at the pedestal. The shared restroom/shower was a short walk across the street and although nothing fancy, it was fully functional and clean. Quiet night on the Caloosahatchee Waterway in this small town setting with park running along the waterfront.

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Marina Review for St. Lucie South Campground & Marina

Reviewed by: Roger S. , Betty Gail, on Feb 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We called ahead and were told for the size of our vessel (Mainship 400) that mooring B8 would be the best one to reserve. It was a squeeze and the pier barely reached amidship but we got tied in and hooked into 50A power with no issues. Several AGLCA (Loopers) staying at the campground and on other moored boats stopped by to say hi. The guy running the check-in office was very friendly and informative. Restrooms/showers were clean. Dead calm waters during our entire one night stay and making the 7AM locking through St. Lucie Lock was easy since it was only about 200 yards from our slip. Wish we could have stayed another night or two.

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