Anchorage Review for Smithville

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Dec 18, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Exit the main channel when the Smithville Marina is 90 degrees to your port. Proceed slowly toward the north side of the marina. Anchor in 8' of water. Good cell service from Verizon, ATT and T-Mobile. Wind protection is from the south.Mud bottom. Anchor came up clean. A good place to stage for the Glover Wilkins Lock.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Pool level 245.5.

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Anchorage Review for Piney Grove Rec Area

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Dec 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We spent four nights in this anchorage due to poor weather (high winds from the south and rain). The anchorage is exposed from the north. Room for one boat to anchor with swing room. Anchored in 15' of water. I use a range finder to make sure there is adequate room to swing at anchor. Due to the time of year, we had the anchorage to ourselves. It would be easy to take a dog ashore to the sand spit. We had Verizon, ATT, T-Mobile cell service.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Note: Pool 352.0.

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Anchorage Review for Waterfall Anchorage - Cooper Hollow

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Dec 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter the anchorage favoring the port side. Anchored in 16 feet of water. Put out a stern anchor due to minimal swing room. This is a beautiful anchorage. We had two bars of T-Mobile (enough to watch Thursday night NFL football). Highly recommend this anchorage.

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Marina Review for Goose Pond Colony Resort Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Dec 6, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We left our boat at Goose Pond Colony Marina for a month while we went home. We were on the boat at the marina for over a week. This is a great marina. The staff are excellent. The directions for getting from the lake to the marina were spit on. There is a good size transient dock. The restrooms and laundry are very close to the transient dock. The rates are very reasonable. The courtesy car is better than what most marinas have. There are good provisioning options in Scottsboro. Payne's ice ice-cream shop in town has huge banana splits and on Thursday a two scoop ice-cream cone is 5 cents for people 65 and older.

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Anchorage Review for Clement Clay Bridge

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 29, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Anchored in 18' of water, about half way between the edge of the channel and the shore. Anchor set immediately. The current kept the boat parallel to the shore. Strong winds during the night in the same direction that the river was flowing and the anchor held just great. I might be possible to take a dingy to shore for dog relief. There aren't many anchorages in this stretch of water before the dam, so this anchorage was a good place to stop.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Wheeler Lake Pool 552.87.

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Free Dock Review for Ingalls Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

A great free wall harbor. When entering the harbor there is a "no wake" buoy in the center of the channel. Stay slightly to the left of the bouy to avoid some shoaling. The lowest depth when entering was 8'. The dock on the left side is several hundred feet long with room for 8 to 10 boats. There is a large boat ramp and the docks closest to it are used by boats using the ramp.
The downtown is almost a mile away. There are several historic buildings. The town does a good job of using signposts to highlight historical locations and events. This is a great stop on the Tennessee River.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  
  

             Photo courtesy Lance Williamson

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Marina Review for Florence Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a very good marina! The issues with the Wilson large lock chamber have been challenging for Loopers heading to the Fall Rendezvous. Kyle, the marina manager was great at being the main point of contract with the lock master. Every morning he is on the phone with the lock to facilitate our departure times to the lock. The marina staff assisted with docking. Facilities were clean. Great handout concerning the area. Follow their directions for entering the marina and all will go well.

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Anchorage Review for Wolf Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter the anchorage from downstream, favoring the port side. Head for the little island and anchor before you get to it in 10+ feet of water. The Pickwick dam was dumping 80K cubic ft per second when we anchored. This morning they were dumping 40k cfps, and the water level had dropped 3'!!! Make sure you have enough depth for a 4'+ drop in depth overnight. It was a great anchorage. Be sure to exit the anchorage from the way you entered.

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Anchorage Review for Lick Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 10, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

The Kentucky Lake pool was at 355' the night we anchored here. The depth as you go into the entrance was 8'. Don't worry about the down trees -- easy to see and lots of room to avoid them. Follow the channel markers as you enter the lake. Turn to starboard around the red arrow marker. Do not anchor after that marker as you will block the channel for other boats. Turn to port around the green marker. Anchor up towards the red markers in 6' - 8' of water. A peaceful anchorage. Good holding and wind protection.

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Anchorage Review for Leatherwood Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 9, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Follow the chartplotter as you exit the river. The channel has a sharp turn to port -- don't cut the corner. Follow the buoys toward the marina. Exit the channel before the last red buoy going to the starboard. Depth should be about 20' feet. Anchor on top of the underwater rise in 8.7' (elevation 355 winter pool for Kentucky Lake). Anchor held great.

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Marina Review for Green Turtle Bay Resort (Boat Works)

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 7, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

How do you rate a marina that is stretched to the max to accommodate the large number of Loopers traveling down the rivers at this time? There are 40+ loop boats there night after night. Yes, the transient slips are near the office and showers/laundry. No, they do not have (nore does any marina) enough designated "transient" slips for this large number of Loop boats. I have been told that they have not turned away any transient boats this year! We were on dock 4 (not a transient dock) but we were fairly close to the marina office. Other boats (read a different review) were much further away. The bathrooms were clean and fairly updated. The laundry machines were fairly new and took large loads (we have paid less and more) for laundry. The marina could do a better job of answering the phone and radio, and the slip numbers could be more visible. Remember, we were there past their normal busy season and summer workers are mainly gone, at this time of year. We would definitely stay there again!

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Anchorage Review for Cumberland Towhead Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 4, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter behind Towhead Island from the downstream side. The deeper water is to the shore side of the channel (20'+) and the channel gets shallower on the island side of the channel. Do not go more than 1/3 of the way up the island. We anchored in 8' of water, on the island side, about a third of the way up the channel. Good holding with a mud bottom. The current will keep your boat away from the shore. We had a very peaceful night at anchor. We had 3 boats in the anchorage. Highly recommend this anchorage. You MUST exit anchorage from the end you entered.

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Anchorage Review for Ohio River - Kentucky side

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Call the lock for instructions on where to anchor. There are three rock wing dams that are well out of the water. Anchor behind the most downstream of the three. The USACE had a piece of equipment several hundred yards below the large rock wing dam. Anchor between the wing dam and the USACE equipment in 14' of water. Caution, there is a wing dam toward the shore from the USACE equipment that is barely out of the water. We had four boats above the USACE equipment and three below. There is a back eddy in the area behind the big wing dam. Good holding in sandy mud. There was strange wave action during the night that was similar to a boat wake. This may have been caused by the dam dumping water in anticipation of the increased flow out of the Tennessee River due to Hurricane Helene. This is a good place to spend the night before locking through the next morning.

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Anchorage Review for Browns Chute

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 2, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored two wing dams downstream from the Waterway Guide anchorage marker. Two boats were anchored below the first wing dam. We were about 150' out of the channel (beyond the red bouys). We radioed a passing tow to make sure we were safely out of the channel and he responded that we were just great where we were. Anchored in 15' of water and put out 125' of anchor rode due to the 3 mph current. The current kept us parallel to the shore and out of the channel. Good holding in sand bottom. Anchor came up clean. Passing tows put out a wake that is not too bad, because they are going around a corner. This is not a bad anchorage in a section of the river with few anchoring options.

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Free Dock Review for Kaskaskia Lock Wall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 1, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a great place to spend the night. We had 9 boats tide to the wall and one boat rafted to a buddy boat. There is plenty of room for several boats to anchor below the dam.The cleats were a little far apart but we had three lines tide to cleats. The boat in front of us had one line on a cleat we used. Be sure to call the lock on channel 14 for permission to use the free wall or to anchor. As Captain Sam said, check your AIS before going back out into the Mississippi River (a tow was approaching on the big river when some of our group were getting ready to leave and we warned them about the tow).

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Marina Review for The Alton Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 30, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Great marina! We were there to wait out two hurricanes, and we left the boat there as we traveled to Washington State
for a wedding. Great staff. Covered slips. Great individual bathrooms/showers. Enterprise will pick you up at the marina to get your car rental. Walmart delivery is available for those with Walmart +. A small grocery store will pick you up and bring you back to the marina for your shopping.

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Anchorage Review for Bar Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

A good anchorage in 8' of water. Good holding. Follow the directions and come into the anchorage from the downstream side.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Lagrange Pool 15.70 feet.

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Anchorage Review for Willow Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Good anchorage behind the island. Enter from the top or the bottom and anchor anywhere along in-between in 10' - 12' of water. The current will keep your boat from swinging. There were five boats there the night we anchored, and room for one or two more.

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Marina Review for East Port Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 10, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The water depth from the main channel to the marina is shallow. The route to the marina is marked well with orange bouys and white bouys.
The marina staff were helpful. Docks are in good repair. The bathrooms are nice. Laundry and ice are free. We had free use of the pool. The bar/restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating.

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Anchorage Review for Lower Henry Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 9, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter this anchorage from the south end of the island. It is helpful to look at the USACE soundings on Aqua Map before entering the anchorage. Go to the red ATON past the island before making a sharp turn up to the anchorage. We saw one spot that had 6.5' depth as you enter the anchorage before getting to the deeper water. We anchored about 3/4 of the way up the island in 11' of water. Mud bottom with good holding. Several bald eagles were our neighbors for the evening. This is a good anchorage.

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Free Dock Review for Joliet City Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

There were 10 boats on the wall the night we stayed there. Each power pedestal had multiple 30A outlets (I heard of a couple outlets that didn't work) and most, if not all of the boats were able to use two 30A outlets. No safety issues the night we were there.

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Marina Review for Heritage Harbor Ottawa

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a very good marina. The marina staff stay late when Loopers get held up at the locks. They give good directions for entering the marina and getting into your slip. The slips have finger piers on both sides. Skilled dock hands assist with docking. There are two free loaner vehicles for transient boaters to use (we used them for a Walmart run, to visit Starved Rock State Park and the Starved Rock lock and dam. There is a well stocked ships store. Lots of places to eat in Ottawa. The evening route briefing (most nights) was very helpful. I highly recommend this marina

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Marina Review for Monroe Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 4, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

I would only stay here if it was dead calm for the day before you arrive and the time you are here. All of the pluses listed in previous posts are not worth it.

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Marina Review for Hammond Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a HUGE marina. It was a 0.48 mile walk to the marina office! There is no assistance from marina staff when docking. A good price for fuel. It was Labor Day weekend when we were here and two of the nights people were playing their music really loud at 1:15 am. There is nothing but the casino within easy walking distance. We used Walmart delivery for provisioning. There is a fairly decent ships store at the marina office. We were there for so really strong winds and the breakwater did a good job of protecting the harbor. This is a good place to get ready to head down the inland rivers.

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Marina Review for New Buffalo City Transient Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 31, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

It is helpful to look at the USACE sounding on Aquamap before entering the harbor. There is shoaling on the starboard side as you near and enter the breakwater. The transient marina is straight ahead. The fixed docks are nice, as are the restrooms and showers. The self-service pumpout is by the office ($5). There is only one person working at a time because this is a transient marina- not a full service marina. The staff were nice and helpful. There is a fabulous city beach 0.25 mile away (an easy walk). The marina is right on the main street of town with ice cream, shops, and restaurants. The 24 hour laundromat is about 6 block saway with a large selection of sizes of machines.

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Anchorage Review for Pere Marquette Lake - Southwest

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 24, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Anchored in 30' of water. Good protection from winds south, west and north. There are no free dingy docks in town. Payed $10 for the full day of dingy docking privilege. Walmart and Lowes are two miles away. Uber was problematic. We called the local transit shuttle for a ride. We are over 60 so it was $1 per person each way. It appears as though a pet could be taken ashore at a nearby boat ramp. The salmon were running so there were lots of fishing boats in the bay. From the anchorage you can watch the S.S. Badger (the ferry) dock following it return from across Lake Michigan. The anchorage has good holding with a mud bottom.

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Marina Review for Straits State Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 22, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is very nice marina. Good sturdy docks, clean restrooms and showers. The goose poop is removed from the sidewalks and docks daily. There are two covered picnic areas. It is just a couple of blocks to downtown and the Mackinac Island ferry. There are posts along the finger piers that are a hassle.

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Anchorage Review for Arcadia Lake

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 22, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored a little west and south of the anchor mark in the Waterway Guide. Anchor south of the inlet for production from winds from the.west and south. Never saw less than 9' when entering the channel. The most recent USACE survey show to favor just left of center in the entrance channel. Good holdingin mud bottom. There were no weeds on the anchor when it was pulled up. This is a great anchorage.

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Marina Review for Gore Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a nice marina. Wide docks. Short walk to the downtown shopping area where there is a great grocery store. It is quite a walk to the marina office. There is no assistance for docking (not a problem for us). Water on two of the docks and the bathrooms was shut off at 8:00 pm for some maintenance work. There were lots of signs to notify boaters of the short closure.

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Anchorage Review for Strawberry Island - Bustard Islands

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is the second time we anchored here. The little Cove on the NE end was already taken. The wind was blowing from the west so we tucked into the small cove near the SW end in 10' of water. Good holding with a mud bottom.

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Anchorage Review for Kilcoursie Bay - Killbear Point Provincial Park

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Good protection from winds out of the north. The "official" anchorage (where PWCs and boats are required to go slow) is marked with yellow bouys. There were lots of boats in the "official" moorage , so we anchored to the east of the markers in 22' of water. Good holding in a sandy/mud bottom.

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Anchorage Review for Chimney Bay - Beausoleil Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored south of Chimney Bay because the bay was full of boats. The winds were from the west so the protection was good. There is no protection from winds with any easterly component. Good holding with a mud bottom.

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Marina Review for Midland Harbour Town Docks

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a good marina in downtown Midland. Clean restrooms. Staff were a big help in docking. We were on the main wall. Our 30A plugs tripped their new power pedestals. We have stayed in marinas across the eastern seaboard and Canada and this is the first time that has happened. Fortunately, there was a 50A plug that was nearby.

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Marina Review for Starport Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 2, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina. It is located just before Lock 45, the last lock on the Trent Severn Waterway. The fuel dock is easy to spot and the fuel was a great price. This is a great place to top off the fuel tanks before heading to Georgian Bay. The dock hands were the best we have ever experienced! At the fuel dock, one person filled our diesel tanks, another pumped out our holding tanks, another person topped off the dingy gas tank. Moorage for the night was VERY reasonably priced. The restrooms, showers, and laundry are located in the lounge building. FREE laundry (two washers and two dryers). Nice bathrooms and showers. The ships store is well stocked with food, boat stuff, and more. The only drawback is the boat wakes from vessels entering and leaving the lock. Things were much calmer after the lock closed. I highly recommend this marina!

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Anchorage Review for Hallowell Mills Cove -Picton Bay

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 19, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored in 21' of water. There were three boats in the anchorage and plenty of room for a couple more boats. Good holding. No weeds due to the depth. When I see the nearby businesses I am thankful for the jobs they provide for the people of this area. A good anchorage between Kingston and Trenton.

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Marina Review for Clayton Municipal Dock-Mary Street Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 18, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

The marina is very exposed to waves and boat wakes. There is 30A and 50A power. The dock is new and well lighted at night. There is one washer and one drier. They are only accessible during the hours the marina office is open (8 am - 4 pm). It is an easy 0.5 mile walk to the grocery store. There is no fuel or pumpout at this marina (they ate at a nearby fuel dock). The antique boat museum is next to the marina. The marina staff were friendly and helpful.

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Marina Review for R J Marine

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great place to get fuel before going to Canada or upon returning from Canada. The inside of the fuel dock is protected from boat wakes.

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Marina Review for Victoria Park Campground/Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 11, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

We spent two nights here. The good points: two 30A outlets for each marina slip, laundry at you pay for with a credit card, water at the slip, bathroom facilities were close, Walmart is walkable (0.6 miles), pumpout. The not so great: goose poop on the dock not cleaned up while we were there, men's restroom and shower not cleaned while we were there, only one washer and dryer. This marina is administered by the city or Chamber of Commerce. It is challenging to know where the available docks, the Parks Canada walls, and Le Boat docks begin and end. I suggest telling the Parks Canada lock employees what type of moorage you desire and they will point you in the right direction.

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Free Dock Review for Ottawa Wall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Additional information for my post:
Boats can tie up to the metal fence poles on the port side of the canal (the same side as where the power is located) if there is no room where the power is located. Running the generator is allowed before 10:00 pm.

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Free Dock Review for Ottawa Wall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The "free" wall is on the port side of the canal as you exit the flight of eight locks. The 30A outlets are in the base of the light poles along the dock. The 50A outlets are for the tour boats. The area had been mostly cleared of the homeless camps that have plagued this area (there were still some people hanging out under the bridge due to a rain storm). The Visitor's Centre is located across from the Parliament Building. The Byward Market (a 3 block square area) has many stores and small shops, and many places to eat. The large CF Rideau mall is across the street from the market area. Farm Boy store is on the first floor and has a decent selection of food items (it is like a Trader Joe's in the states). The Loblaws grocery store is several blocks past the mall and is a large grocery store with much cheaper prices.

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Free Dock Review for Hawkesbury Town Wall (Confederation Park)

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

At the Hawkesbury Town Wall you can tie up at the wall or at the floating dock. We tied up at the wall. It looks like the floating dock is better suited for smaller boats. Restrooms are in the building behind the Ontario Welcome Center. No electricity or water. A sign by the boat launch says that boats are to pay $15 to spend the night. Directions to pay online are on the sign. The website would not take payments. A kiosk in the parking lot is for parking vehicles and boat trailers. During the night a police officer came to our boat because she thought she saw someone near it (that is a good thing). The officer set off my motion sensor security system. It sure startled her! She was very apologetic about waking us up. It is great news that they keep an eye on the docks and boats during the night. This is a great place to spend the night.

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Marina Review for La Marina de Longueuil

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 1, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This four-star rating is those who gave a boat that is 30' - 35'. Our boat is 43' and I would rate it no higher than three-star for a boat this size.
There is a strong current when leaving the channel and heading for the marina (not a problem, but be prepared for it. The fuel dock is on the starboard immediately inside the breakwater. There is a fairway immediately to the port (it is a blind corner - watch for an approaching boat. The staff is friendly and helpful. The ferry to Montreal is nearby to get to the city.
My partially negative comments have to do with the slip sizes. They knew we have a 43' boat, with a 13'+ beam. It might have been possible to get into the first two slips they tried to assign us. The finger piers are 20' long (they do not have a piling out passed the finger pier like the marinas on the east coast). We would have extended 23' passed the finger pier and into the middle of the fairway. There is room for 40"+ boats on Dock A (it is a side tie dock) or on the T-head docks.
We were able to get a key card (for a $20 refundable deposit).

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Anchorage Review for La Grande Ile

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 28, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored past the marina, along the opposite side of the channel, behind some trees. Anchor out of the channel, in 8' of water. The water flows at 1 or 2 mph and will keep your boat from swinging into the shore. Great protection from winds out of the NW, N, and NE, if you are behind trees (not much protection if you are behind the marsh grass). Excellent holding in the mud bottom. Shore access is over at the docks (we did not go ashore). This is a good anchorage to get off the St. Lawrence River if it is really blowing.

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Lock comment on Saint-Ours Canal Lock and Dam

Comment by: Lance Williamson on Jun 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

The Saint-Ours Lock is the only lock we have encountered in the Parks Canada system the has a floating dock inside the lock that you tie to. The floating dock is on the west wall of the lock. This floating dock makes transiting this lock very easy.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  

                         Photo courtesy of Lance Williamson, M/V Blessings Flow

  
  

                                            Floating dock on Northwest wall

                            Photo courtesy Lance Williamson, M/V Blessings Flow

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Free Dock Review for Chambly Canal - Locks 1-3

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a "free" dock (wall) if you have a Parks Canada moorage permit. The dock is on the east wall. There is room for six 40' boats. The part of the wall farthest from the lock is closed and no docking is allowed. There are five power pedestals - each having two 30A outlets. There are no 50A outlets. We used two 30A outlets (you pay per outlet). There are two ice-cream shops within one block of the dock. There are two good grocery stores with three blocks of the dock. There are many restaurants within three or four blocks. Fort Chambly is a short walk - and well worth seeing. There is also a free dock (without power) on the lower side of the lock. This is a great stop!

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Anchorage Review for Pelots Bay

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 24, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We spent two nights here due to forecast wind out of the south, shifting to south east. It was calm when we anchored. Once the anchor set it held through some very strong wind. Mud bottom. We tucked behind the point on the east side of the bay for a little more protection. The only shore access is at the marina at the mouth of the bay.

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Anchorage Review for Sloop Cove - Valcour Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 22, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Sloop Cove has great wind protection from south, west and north winds. Sandy shoal on the south west end. Watch the depth gauge as you head toward the sandy beach. The most protected spot to anchor is toward that south west side. Winds from the south east can wrap around the point and impact the outer part of the anchorage. Sand bottom. Easy dingy access on the sand beach for those with pets. Can fit four or five boats in the anchorage. A great anchorage.

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Marina Review for Ferry Dock Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 20, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is one of the best marinas we have visited. Lots of friendly, helpful dock staff. Free electricity and laundry. The bathrooms and showers rate with the best we have seen. It is a pleasant walk to the outdoor pedestrian mall called Church Street Market where there are LOTS of options for shopping, eating and drinking. Walmart delivery is available for provisioning. This is a great stop!

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Anchorage Review for Vergennes

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We did not anchor in this anchorage (we were docked at the free wall). Since no one has reviewed the anchorage I thought it important to have some input from someone who has been here. We drove our dingy around the anchorage and noticed a couple of submerged logs that have come over the falls. (We also saw a couple of logs stuck on the rocks above the falls.) There is great shore access in several places. There is wind protection from all directions. I would anchor here if the free dock is full, but I would use a trip line in the anchor in case there are sunken logs on the bottom. If the bottom is good I would give this anchorage 5 stars. The anchorage does not deserve a bad rating from someone that didn't anchor there. Since I cannot submit a review without a rating, I chose to give it a neutral rating of 3 stars.

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Free Dock Review for City of Vergennes Municipal Docks - MacDonough Park

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We love this stop!! The seven mile cruise up Otter Creek is beautiful. You will pass lots and lots of people fishing from the bank and several boat with people fishing. The floating dock in front of the bulkhead is tippy. The cleats on it are not sufficient to tie up a big boat. The bulkhead has massive steel cleats for large boats to tie to (This means your dock lines will go across the floating dock. We tied survey tape to our lines for visibility.). The 50A outlet is on a power pole, across the driveway. A 50' shore power cord easily reaches the boat. There is a donation box for those who tie up here. It looks like there are power boxes for boats that tie up across the channel. There is no floating dock on that side and the bulkhead is rusted through in many places. I would not choose to tie up on that side of the channel. The water falls are beautiful. It is a short uphill walk to the main street of town. Unlike other small towns we have visited by boat, the downtown of Vergennes is thriving!! There wasn't a single vacant storefront! Historic buildings have been restored. There are lots of places to shop and eat. There are two ice-cream shops. The town deserves 5 stars. The trip up the Otter River deserves 5 stars. Tied up looking at the falls deserves 5 stars. The floating dock deserves 2 stars. The electrical outlet across the driveway deserves 3 stars (lots of free docks do not even have power). Therefore, I give the location 4 stars AND say it is one of, if not, our favorite stops between Waterford and the Canadian border going through Lake Champlain.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  
  

       Photo courtesy of Lance Williamson, M/V Blessings Flow

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Anchorage Review for Chimney Point

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is a good anchorage when the wind is from the north. We anchored to the right of the marked anchorage and rock in 8 feet of water. There are docks just past the bridge, on both sides, where you can dock a dingy and take a pet to shore. There are historic ruins near the south end of the bridge. Good holding with a muddy bottom. There were no weeds on the anchor when we brought the anchor up. This is a good place to stop for the night when the wind is blowing out of the north.

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Free Dock Review for Village of Whitehall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 14, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great stop. There is room for six boats (seven if you really squeeze). There are three power pedestals: two 30A plugs, one 50A plug and two 15A (120V) plugs. (Signs on the pedestals say that the 50A plugs do not work.) There are bathrooms and showers in the community center building that is passed the remains of the Ticonderoga battleship. Hours of the building: May 1 - Memorial Day: 7 am to 5 pm; Memorial Day- Labor Day: 7 am to 9 pm; Labor Day - October 15: 7 am - 5 pm. There is free water at the dock. Be sure to check out the museum and remains of the battleship Ticonderoga.

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Free Dock Review for Fort Edward Yacht Basin

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great Free Wall stop. There are eight power pedestals- each with two 30A outlets and two 15A plugs. The restrooms are clean - showers take four quarters. A short walk to the main street. Stewart's mini-mart is a couple of blocks and has great ice-cream. A pizza shop is about 2 blocks away. We did not notice any shoaling in the well marked channel.

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Free Dock Review for Mechanicville Terminal Wall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We had a good stay at the Mechanicville free wall. We were able to get six boats tie to the wall. There are 30A power pedestals and water. The bathrooms were very clean. The grounds are well kept. There were teens fishing and riding bikes, but they were not loud or obnoxious. A couple of cars came into the parking at night, but no noise or other problems. There are two good Ice-cream places in town. We spent two nights and really enjoyed our stay.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  

                                   Photo courtesy Lance Williamson, M/V Blessings Flow

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Free Dock Review for Waterford Harbor Visitor Center

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

The Waterford free dock is difficult to rate at this time. There are three parts of the free dock: the floating dock closest to the lock, the other floating dock, and the concrete wall. The power pedestals on the floating dock closest to the lock have been replaced and are working, but there is no water. The other floating dock is closed, as they are replacing rotten boards and we heard they are putting in power and water. The concrete wall is HIGH and unless you are at one of the two ladders it can be difficult to get off the boat. As usual, the volunteer staff are friendly and helpful. The bathrooms and showers are plain, but functional.

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Anchorage Review for Middle Ground Flats

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 9, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored past the red channel marker in 12' of water. There is fairly strong current caused by the tide changes. The current keeps boat away from the shore. Your boat will swing 180 degrees when the tide changes. Be sure to put out plenty of scope. The bottom is sandy mud and our anchor came up clean. The anchorage is exposed to winds from the NE and SW.
There is shore access at the Athens free dock.

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Free Dock Review for Town of Athens

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Stopped at the Athens Free Dock today. It was Athens Community Day at the park
Lots going on: face painting for kids, sailboat ride, free ice-cream, small critters to look at and hold, etc. Nice metal floating dock. Clearly marked no overnight docking. We saw several places to eat near the park. Not many stores in the downtown area.

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Marina Review for Marlboro Yacht Club

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

What a friendly, great marina! The yacht club welcomes transient boaters. Everyone we met was glad we were here. The yacht club has a pool, outside lounge area with fire pit. Restrooms are nice. There currently is no laundry facility on site. A yacht club member drove us to and from the local 24 hour laundromat. He also offered to take us to the grocery store. There are boat wakes because the marina is on the Hudson River. This is a great stop when going up and down the Hudson River.

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Anchorage Review for Croton Point N

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 7, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is a good stop when leaving New York City and heading up the Hudson River. Good wind protection from winds out of the south. Good holding in 8' with a mud bottom. We were there on a week day and there were only 2 boats in the anchorage overnight. Wakes from boats going up and down the are felt in the anchorage (this is true of most marinas and anchorages along the Hudson.

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Marina Review for Englewood Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 6, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

We did not stay at this marina. We went because of their GREAT price for diesel! Call before going to make sure they still have a fantastic price on diesel. The dock hand was very helpful. The marina would get a 5 star rating for diesel cost and staff helpfulness. The cost for a pumpout for our 40' boat was $40. We needed a pumpout so we bit the bullet and got the pumpout. I believe the pumpout cost for boats under 40' is $30. They DO NOT have potable water at the dock! I would rate the pumpout and water situation a 1 star. Thus, my overall rating of 3 stars.

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Anchorage Review for Atlantic Highlands - Municipal Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

The anchorage is behind the breakwater, east of the mooring field. Do not enter the harbor from the west end without local knowledge. There is a sandy beach where you can walk a dog. The marina has an excellent dingy dock (good for taking pets ashore). Directions to the dingy dock: follow the channel toward the fuel dock; turn to port just before the fuel dock, the dingy dock will be on your.port. The anchorage has good holding with a mud bottom. Anchorage has great protection from a Southerland wind and protection from the north from the breakwater. Wakes enter the anchorage from boats going from Atlantic Highlands to Atlantic.

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Anchorage Review for Rum Point Basin

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is a great anchorage. A dredge is anchored close to the entrance to the anchorage. Follow the sticks/markers going through the entrance. Hug the port side to avoid the sand bar that extends from the sandy beach. The anchorage opens up with 8' of depth once passed the last marker. We head to the port towards the condos to anchor. Last evening a local cruise boat came by twice. Sometimes you are the show and sometimes you watch the show - last night we were the show! A great anchorage.

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Anchorage Review for Sunset Lake

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 2, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

The entrance off the ICW is marked by small bouys. I understand that these markers may be removed in the winter. There is an area marked with big yellow markers for PWCs (they are removed each evening). Lots of wakes during the day (most from PWCs). By evening we had the anchorage all to ourselves. Good holding in mud bottom. Anchored on 8' of water. Don't let my comments about the wakes keep you from anchoring here. We were there on a sunny June Saturday. We went by the anchorages by the Coast Guard and they had even more wakes due to people ignoring the "No Wake" markers along the channel. This would be a GREAT anchorage Monday through Thursday.

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Anchorage Review for Salem River

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 1, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored past the first marina and the no wake bouy in 15' of water. Good holding with a mud bottom. There is quite a bit of current so we put out a scope of 6:1. Made sure the anchor held when the tide changed. This is a good place to spend the night before going down the Delaware Bay.

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Marina Review for Worton Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 31, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina!! We came into the marina with an electrical issue late Friday afternoon on Memorial Day weekend. The service manager was at our boat in no time at all. He scheduled us for first thing their next work day. The problem was diagnosed and parts ordered, and we were on our way the day the part came in! There service department has six or seven mechanics!!! The ship's store has a great selection of parts. All of the staff were very helpful. The only drawback of this marina is that it is 8 miles out of town. There is a local ride service that took us to town for $10 each way!

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Marina Review for Cambridge Yacht Basin

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 21, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a nice, well run marina. Staff was friendly and helpful, and gave a good briefing of the various food and drink offerings in town. A short walk to the downtown area past historic houses. Great murals in town. Restrooms were clean. There is a large park along the marina. Several people stopped to us. Would gladly stay here again.

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Anchorage Review for San Domingo Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 20, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We turned to starboard and entered the inlet to anchor. Anchoring in this location give protection from winds out of the south (which are the main criticism of anchoring in the waterway that is the back door to St. Michaels). There are some wakes from local out boating. A great anchorage.

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Anchorage Review for Onancock Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Follow the well marked channel off the Chesapeake. The anchorage is just before the town marina. There is room for 3 or 4 boats. Be sure to anchor out of the main channel. The dingy dock is just past the marina and bridge. There are several small shops a few blocks up the street. There is a very nice "provisioning" shop with specialty wines, cheese and various other things. The donut shop is a couple of blocks from the dingy dock. For $20 you can use the showers, free laundry, and courtesy car (Walmart and Food Lion are about 4 miles away). The restaurant beside the marina is excellent.

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Anchorage Review for Hampton River - North of Bridge

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We spent two nights here. We anchored just north of R4 marker. Good holding. Downtown marina had two places to tie up the dingy. Short walk to historic attractions and restaurants.

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Marina Review for Tidewater Yacht Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 10, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We spent five nights at the marina. The upgrades to the marina are great. The staff were friendly and helpful. We received fresh cookies when we checked in! We had packages sent to the marina and we received them with no problems. Bathrooms and showers were very clean. The food at their restaurant was very good and reasonably priced. We will definitely stay here again if we are in the area.

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Anchorage Review for North Landing River - Blackwater Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Entrance into the creek was 5 feet. It has been reported that you should stay toward the south side of the entrance due to there some shoaling off the point on the north side of the creek entrance and that there is a submerged stump in that same area (it may have been removed because a stump that has been pulled out is on the shore. We anchored at the first bend in 8 feet of water. The only wakes were from a few fishing boats and PWCs going up and down the creek. Good holding in mud. Spent two nights.

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Anchorage Review for North River - Broad Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on May 2, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored up the creek in 8' of water. We spent 3 nights there. Never saw less than 5' when entering the creek. There were fair sized waves outside the creek, and barely a ripple in the creek. Highly recommend this anchorage.

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Marina Review for Albemarle Plantation Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Apr 28, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

I cannot say enough good things about Albemarle Plantation Marina! The marina is located in a large development called Albemarle Plantation (or the Plantation or AP). We spent 20 days at the marina. My wife need to fly to Seattle for her mother's surgery. JE (the Dock Master) gave us a great quote for staying at the marina. Golf cars are available for a modest fee. Pumpouts are free. Gas and diesel are available on C dock. The bathrooms and showers are located in the same building as the Dockside Cafe and yacht club. The Cafe is open Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Transient boaters staying at the marina get a 10% discount. JE took us to the local fire department fundraiser - over 50 pigs were barbecued and 4000 plates served! Laundry is free. The Plantation is working on getting permits and funding for a breakwater. The first two nights are free (a part of the Albemarle Loop promotion). This is a great stop!

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Anchorage Review for Alligator River - Tuckahoe Point

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Apr 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is the second time we have used this anchorage. We were to the northeast of the anchor marker on the Waterway chart -- a little behind the small point of land. Anchored in 8' of water. The little point of land offered some wave protection. No bug issues -- could be because of the time of year, the wind, or both. You will want a wash down hose to get mud off the anchor rode and the anchor. I had good AT&T cell service while my wife had zero Verizon cell service. There were 3 boats anchored in this general area and 3 more around the bend headed towards the Alligator River. There is room for lots of boats to anchor.

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Marina Review for Belhaven Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Apr 7, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We stayed two nights and absolutely enjoyed it. The staff are fantastic. They were a great help in docking and leaving the dock. Free laundry. Great bathroom/shower facilities. There is a covered lounge area by the office. The deck above the lounge offers a great view of the marina and surrounding area. They have a great golf cart for provisioning at the grocery store a mile from the marina. In-slip diesel and gas are available at your slip.

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Marina Review for R. E. Mayo Seafood Marine Supply

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Apr 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

This is a difficult "marina" to evaluate. R.E. Mayo Seafood allows boats to tie up to their dock - away from their shrimp boats. We moored on the south dock. There are three 30 Amp outlets (one is used by a boat that seems to always be there). The outlets look rough, but they work. There are several 15 Amp outlets. The south dock is not as "rough" as the north dock. The restrooms are in the ships store, and are only available when the store is open. The store has Snacks, some groceries, tee/sweat shirts, a good selection of parts for boats, and frozen shrimp, scallops and flounder. The cost is $0.40 per foot, and the electricity is free. There are no showers. As the saying goes, "You get what you pay for." We stayed 5 nights due to strong winds and bad weather. We were glad to be tied up to a solid dock!! Miss Betty, at the front counter, was very nice and helpful. The shrimp were great!!

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

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 31, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Free Dock #1 is open!! Repairs have been completed!!

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Marina Review for Zimmerman Marine - Oriental

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 31, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We highly recommend Zimmerman Marine in Oriental NC! First, their front office staff were friendly, professional, and responded quickly to our inquiries about the work we need done. Second, they had someone come 25 miles the marina our boat was in to examine what needed to be done. Third, they were able to get to our work earlier than we had expected. Fourth, the person doing the work on the boat did a great job!! Thank you Zimmerman Marine!!

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Free Dock Review for Oriental Town Dock #2 - Free Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

The Oriental Free Dock #2 is open. Work was still being done on Oriental Free Dock #1 this afternoon.

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Free Dock Review for Oriental Town Dock #2 - Free Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 21, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

All boats must leave Oriental Free Dock #2 on Sunday March 24, 2024, for scheduled maintenance on Monday, March 25.

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

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 21, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

Oriental Free Dock #1 is currently closed for maintenance. No scheduled date for the dock to open.

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Marina Review for Northwest Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Mar 13, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We spent the winter (November 15 - March 13) at Northwest Creek Marina. The entire staff at the marina are FABULOUS! It is helpful to call the marina to get directions to your slip. The channel up the creek from the Neuse River is well marked. When the marina is to your starboard you follow the marinas markers to the marina. The deck of the main dock is being replaced. The decks of the side docks are slated to be replaced as well. The hot water system for the restrooms was updated last month. Food trucks have been scheduled on Thursdays this spring. We chose to spend the winter here rather than burning lots of Diesel to get to Floria, and then pay the Florida prices for moorage. The only "drawback" is that the marina is about 8 miles out of New Bern (we had a car so this was actually a plus). There are lots of liveaboards at the marina. We highly recommended this marina.

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Anchorage Review for Jackson Creek South Branch

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Feb 20, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored here on November 3, 2023. We anchored near the house that is on the point of land (where you could take a slight right or left turn). Anchored in 7' of water. Mud bottom, with good holding. It is a great place to spend the night.

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Anchorage Review for Hotham Island (East)

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 25, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Use your charts as you head into this anchorage. We anchored in 5' of water. Good holding with a mud bottom. There is room for several boats in the anchorage. Good protection from wind. This is one of our favorite anchorages.

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Free Dock Review for Whitefish Point State Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 17, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 2

White Fish Point is a barebones state marina. There is a pit toilet in the parking lot. No electrical available. Use USACE soundings on Aqua Map or view on the Waterway Guide app!! We saw no less than 8' but I was navigating with Aqua Map when entering and leaving the marina. The ship wreck museum is a mile walk but WELL worth it!!!

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Anchorage Review for Bonner Bay - Long Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 15, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored to the west of the anchor symbol in the Waterway Guide. There were a few crab pots along the edge of the channel going in but none in the channel. Anchored in 10' of water. Wind was blowing pretty good so we put out lots of scope. The Rocna anchor set and did budge throughout the night. It is November so no mosquitos. The "low land" does not provide much protection from the wind, but it does keep down the wave size. No hunters used the duck blinds -- their boat were the blinds. There were 3 boats outside of the anchorage. First shots were around 8:00 am as we were pulling up the anchor. A good washdown sprayer is needed to get the goopy mud off the anchor rode and anchor.

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Marina Review for Dowry Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We loved our stay at Dowry Creek Marina! We spent several days there waiting for weather to improve. Good nav aids to get into the marina. Fuel dock is the first dock you come to. Least expensive diesel we have purchased since Winter Harbor Marina on the Erie Canal! In- slip pumpouts. The people working the dock are top notch!! Free laundry. Individual bathrooms for people to use. Well stocked ships store with boat and food items. Swimming pool was closed for the season (mid-November). Restaurant on-site with very good food at a moderate price. Flounder fish and chips was very good with the largest piece of fish I have ever had with fish and chips! The deep fried cheese curds are to die for. They have the nicest courtesy car we have used in our 2500 miles of boating this year. We will definitely stay here next spring as we head north!

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Marina Review for Anchorage Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 10, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Anchorage Marina is just outside of the Baltimore inner harbor. They have a great facility and friendly, helpful staff. West Marine is a block away and we were able to replace our washdown hose that had sprung a leak. We took a short Lyft ride to the inner harbor. It was mid-week in October so many shops were closed.

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Anchorage Review for Alligator River - Tuckahoe Point

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We went a little passed the marked anchorage because we only draw 3' 6" and LOTS of sailboats appeared to be headed for that part of the anchorage. (At least 6 sailboats were anchored in that area by sundown.) No current. Good holding in mud. Glad I have a wash-down hose to get the mud off the anchor chain. The surrounding land is so low that it doesn't give a lot of protection from the wind.

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Marina Review for Olverson's Lodge Creek Marina Inc.

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a good, no frills marina. The staff were great!! Very protected from the winds from all directions. Great price on ice. The bathrooms and boaters lounge were nice. They have a couple of courtesy cars. I was able to get a haircut in town. We also did a run to the grocery and hardware stores. The diesel pump was really slow. All in all, good place to stop.

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Marina Review for Tidewater Yacht Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This marina has been undergoing a major upgrade. We visited the marina (not on our boat) in the spring of 2023 and main dock from the parking lot was being replaced. The new walkway is great! There are additional upgrades on the way. The staff was VERY helpful with instructions on getting to our slip and helping us with dock line and hooking up our electrical cords. They will be deserving 5 stars when the upgrades are complete .

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Free Dock Review for Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a "must" stop when traveling the Dismal Swamp. The state park visitors center had good info on the Dismal Swamp. The bridge across the canal closes at 4:30 (I think) and is in the open position so that boats can transit the canal even if the center is closed. The dock is at the highway rest stop - bathrooms are open all night. There is an information center that has travel information for the whole state of North Carolina.

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Free Dock Review for Mid-Atlantic Christian University

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Nov 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great place to stop. Aaron met us at the dock and got us situated and gave us a gift bag, with lots of info about the town. There is a great meat shop a block from the campus. We ate dinner at the university's cafeteria. The free museum in town is really good. We were able to use a small truck for a run to Food Lion. There is only room for 3 boats so plan your arrival accordingly.

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Anchorage Review for Port Tobacco River - Deep Point

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 25, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

There are lots if crab pots between the main channel and Green 1 (par for the course anywhere in or near the Chesapeake). No crab pots after Green 1. The anchorage is marked as on the starboard before Red 4. Go past Red 4 and turn to starboard and anchor in 6.5 feet of water (this is before the charted 3 feet area) with a mud bottom. This is slightly behind the point and give fairly good protection from southerly wind. A quiet anchorage. Very peaceful night.

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Marina Review for Solomons Island Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 24, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina!! It has fixed docks. The member that was on duty when we came in did a great job and was very helpful. The moorage comes with 2 free drink coupons. Every member we met was welcoming and glad we were there. The bathrooms/showers are nice. Laundry is FREE! The club house has pub food on some nights. There are several restaurants in the area. The Calvert Marine Museum is a 1 mile walk. It is a GREAT museum!! There is an ice cream shop about half way to the museum. We stayed for three day because of bad weather and enjoyed our stay.

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Marina Review for Solomons Island Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 24, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina!! It has fixed docks. The member that was on duty when we came in did a great job and was very helpful. The moorage comes with 2 free drink coupons. Every member we met was welcoming and glad we were there. The bathrooms/showers are nice. Laundry is FREE! The club house has pub food on some nights. There are several restaurants in the area. The Calvert Marine Museum is a 1 mile walk. It is a GREAT museum!! There is an ice cream shop about half way to the museum. We stayed for three day because of bad weather and enjoyed our stay.

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Marina Review for Annapolis City Dock and Harbormaster's Office

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 19, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

I hope that this is the place for this. The Annapolis Harbor Master's Office administers two or three mooring ball fields. Boats up to 55' can use the mooring field outside of Ego Alley. Boats up to 35' can can use the mooring field just past the bridge. There is another mooring field past the bridge for Boats up to 55'. We stayed two nights at the first mooring field. The water taxi was promp when called and reasonably priced. Easy access to downtown Annapolis. I highly recommend the tour of the Naval Academy. We really enjoyed walking around the historic buildings in town. There are quite a few wakes until the sun sets.

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Anchorage Review for Still Pond Creek

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 17, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This is a good anchorage but you MUST follow the navigation ATONS as you go into the anchorage. There is a jetty that may be awashed near the entrance so follow the ATONS! At marker Green 9 turn hard to starboard and stay close to the docks along the shore. There use to be 3 "no wake" bouys (they were not there when we were in the anchorage) but are shown on some navigation software. Stay between the "no wake" bouys and the docks. Turn to port after the third "no wake" to find find a good place to anchor. If the bouys are missing, you can turn to port at the last dock to get to the anchorage. Great wind protection in 8 - 9 feet of water. There was only one other boat in the anchorage the night we were there.

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Marina Review for Delaware City Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 16, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We had a good stay at Delaware City Marina as we waited for a weather widow to continue our journey. The staff do a great job of giving directions to get into the marina and securing your dock lines. Follow their directions and you will have no problems. Call them on the phone when getting near the mouth of the C and D Canal. Give them your exact location so they can give you appropriate directions. They will have you call them on VHF channel 9 before entering the marina to give you even more directions. Bathroom and showers were just fine. The ships store has a good assortment of merchandise. The little grocery store in town had basic supplies.

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Marina Review for Utsch's Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We spent several nights at Utsch's Marina. The staff were friendly and helpful. There is a well stocked ship's store and fishing store. There are two sets of bathrooms/showers - the newer ones have individual rooms with toilet and shower. There is a Chapel on site that has a Sunday worship service (not sure if it goes throughout the winter).

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Anchorage Review for Rum Point Basin

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 7, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rum Point Basin is a good place to spend a night on anchor when going down the New Jersey coast. As noted by others, there are some "stakes" to assist going into the anchorage. Stay close to the grassy side (not the sandy side) for deepest water. The shallowest water is partway through the entrance where the sandy spit goes out into the water. Anchor in the larger part of the anchorage. We were the only boat there the night we anchored there. Absecon Inlet was a little "sporty" coming in from the Atlantic with opposing wind and current.

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Anchorage Review for Atlantic Highlands - Municipal Harbor

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 5, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We spent the night here after leaving the Hudson River, before heading south along the New Jersey shore. Wind was from the south. Fairly good protection.

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Marina Review for Half Moon Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 3, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Half Moon Bay Marina is a very good place to stay. As mentioned, Steve is really great. A beautiful setting.We were there in the beginning of October when it was dark by 6:30pm and not light until after 7:00 am. The dock and sidewalk were so dark a flashlight was needed. Also, boat wakes impact the marina and docks. Our boat was still rocking at 9:00 pm. A really good marina with AWESOME sunsets.

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Marina Review for Rondout Yacht Basin

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Oct 3, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

This is a nice marina. The staff were fantastic!! The restrooms are good, but not great. Not much to do on this side of the river. We would definitely stay there again.

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Free Dock Review for Waterford Harbor Visitor Center

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 29, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Stopped here after exiting the Erie Canal. Floating dock has power and water. Not all pedestals have 50 Amp. The visit center staff are volunteers and are friendly and helpful. Docks fill up quickly! Grocery store is a half mile walk. Bathrooms and showers are clean. Be sure to check out the "map" of the Erie Canal that is done in pavers in the sidewalk in front of the visitor center. Great price on ice!!

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Free Dock Review for Lock E8, Scotia, Erie Canal

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

As mentioned before, a nice quiet stop along the canal. The lockmaster was friendly and helpful. There is one power pedestal. I believe it is primarily used by the canal barge moored by it. The lockmaster said it was fine to use it. Two 15 Amp plugs. No 30 Amp. The 50 Amp takes a plug that is used for a household dryer or stove. The lockmaster has tried to get it changed to a marine plug but no luck at this time. A short walk to the port a potty. There is nothing nearby to walk to, although the paved bike path is by the lock.

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Free Dock Review for Amsterdam West of Lock E11 North Wall

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We stayed on the wall at the west end of the lock. There were 3 power pedestals with 50, 30 and 15 amp plugs. 100 yard walk to the port a potty. Had dinner at Russo's - traditional Italian food - nothing fancy, just good sized servings of good food.

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Free Dock Review for Lock E15, Fort Plain, Erie Canal

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 25, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The lock wall west of Lock 15 has room for a couple of boats - one along the wall and one along the embayment (like a marina slip) at the end of the lock wall. There is one power pedestal along the embayment that can be reached from both docking locations. The power pedestal has a 50 amp, 30 amp and two 15 amp plugs. They all work. There is a port-a-potty near rhe lock office. The Village of Fort Plain is a half mile walk along a paved bike path and well worth the walk! The Dutch Country Market has an assortment of bulk food, Amish goods, and various other foods. We picked up some great beef sticks, chocolate covered goodies and more! The Plain Food Co-op also had a good selection of foods, bulk foods, dried fruit, and various chocolate covered items. Save A Lot grocery store is a regular small town grocery store. The Fort Plain Museum is outside of town but worth the walk (check online for the open days and hours).

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Marina Review for Little Falls Canal Harbor and Rotary Park

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We spent two nights here and enjoyed our stay. 30 and 50 Amp electrical hook-ups. Pumpout is working. Clean bathrooms and showers. Laundry is $2.50 to wash and $2.50 to dry. The grocery store is 0.8 of a mile away (in downtown). Staff is very friendly and helpful.

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Free Dock Review for Bellamy Harbor Park

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

We tied up to the new docks at the west end. The rest of the free wall was VERY run down. There is no electricity or water at the west end docks. A person we spoke with that works for a respected governmental agency STRONGLY recommended that we not spend the night there. Lots of homeless people living in the bushes around the park. He said it is safe during the day but not at night. We decided to not spend the night there.

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Free Dock Review for Lock E20, Whitesboro

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We stayed the night on the south wall, west of the lock. There is a nice park along the north and south sides of the lock. No water or electricity. There is Porta Potty near the lock office.
This was the cleanest Porta Potty I have ever seen! There is also a Porta Potty in the park north of the lock. We had a peaceful, quiet night.

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Free Dock Review for Sylvan Beach Pier

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We stayed at the wall east of the bridge. Less wave action at this location. Amusement park was closed for the season as were many businesses. Bathroom and showers are LONG WAY from the dock, past the State Police building in town.

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Marina Review for Winter Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Winter Harbor is a great place to stop. We spent two nights and enjoyed our stay. The summer staff were back in school but the rest of the staff did a great job of assisting with docking. The diesel price is the best around. Good clean bathrooms and laundry room. The fuel is "self serve" like at pumping fuel at a gas station. People can pump their own gas or diesel twenty-four hours a day. They have one courtesy car that we used for a Walmart run. Highly recommend this marina.

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Marina Review for Trent Port Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

A great marina. Great staff. Boaters lounge was comfortable. Bathrooms are tied with the marina a Orillia for the best we have ever experienced. Free laundry with soap and drier sheet. If you have a 40+ foot boat as for a slip near the end of "I" dock - finger docks are about 8' longer.

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Marina Review for Old Mill Park/Campbellford Town Dock

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Sep 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We had a great stay at this wall "marina" that is run by the Chamber of Commerce. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. We stayed on the west wall to be closer to the bathrooms. The grocery store is a block away from the dock. The chamber was sponsoring their second annual "Porchella" music event. It is held on the second Saturday in September. Many homes had musical groups/bands/singers performing on the front porch. It was a great event. Of course, we walked to the outlet store of the "World's Finest Chocolate " company and did our best to help the local economy. Doohers Bakery is a must stop and near the marina. We plan to stop at this marina next year when we return to the Trent Severn.

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Marina Review for Bay Port Yachting Centre

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 8, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina!! The dock hands were helpful. The staff is great - they will take you back to your dock from the office with their golf cart! The fuel dock and pump out can handle 6 boats. There are several washrooms throughout the marina. Their chandlery is well stocked. There is an on-site swimming pool. They no longer have a courtesy car or take you to downtown. The cab fare is $10. The wifi is quite good. I highly recommend this marina.

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Anchorage Review for Tucker Bay

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 1, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We loved Tucker Bay anchorage. We spent two night there. There was boat traffic in the main channel that resulted in boat wakes. The starboard shore as you enter Bay is posted "No trespassing."

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Marina Review for Big Sound Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Aug 1, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

The marina has wide fairways and slips. The staff were great. The small store in the office had a decent supply of items. They had a GREAT selection of marine charts!! Washrooms and showers were fine. We provisioned at Walmart ($12 each way but well worth it). The only downside is the wakes from boats leaving the marina near the town cruise ship dock.

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Marina Review for Wright's Marina Inc.

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Wright's Marina is a wonderful marina! The entrance into Byng Inlet from Georgian Bay is well marked. It is a nice trip from the entrance of the inlet to the marina. Many of the cottages are far nicer than our land-base home. Wright's Marina is the first Marina (before you get to the island) on the left bank. The marina has diesel and gas, a ships store, repair shop, washrooms and showers, and laundry facilities. The staff are super friendly and accommodating. It is a short walk to the ice cream shack. It is one mile to the grocery/LCBO/hardware store. The marina staff will take you to the store and back, or if you walk to the store they will pick you up. This is a great little marina!

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Marina Response:
  Thank you so much for your kind words! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us and we look forward to seeing you again!
  Tracey
  Wright’s Marina Inc

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Anchorage Review for Strawberry Island - Bustard Islands

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We got to the anchorage around noon and there were a few boats in the anchorage. There were quite a few boats in the anchorage by late in the evening. Good holding and wind protection. Lots of places to explore in the dingy. The water was relatively warm for swimming. A beautiful anchorage.

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Anchorage Review for Burnt Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We anchored in the southeast part of the anchorage in 8 feet of water. Good wind protection from the south and southeast. A pretty anchorage. There were 4 boats anchored in our part of the anchorage, 2 boats just north of the little island, and 1 boat a little further east.

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Anchorage Review for Snug Harbour - Lansdowne Channel

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This anchorage is a little deeper than most in the North Channel - 20+ feet. Good holding. Away from the crowds. A pretty anchorage but not the most beautiful we have been in.

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Anchorage Review for Covered Portage Cove - Killarney Bay

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

We attempted to anchor at Covered Portage on a Saturday afternoon. All the marinas at Killarney (we were not going to stay at Killarney) we full so Covered Portage was packed. We attempted to anchor at the far end of the inner harbor 4 times in one place and 2 times in another place. Never got the anchor to hold. We left and went to Snug Harbor. Our suggestion is to avoid the weekends at this anchorage.

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Anchorage Review for The Pool-Baie Fine

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Use your charts and follow the nav aids as you enter Baie Fine. It is a long trip up to the Pool. The water gets a little skinny as you enter the second section on the trip. We did not see less than 6 feet. Entering the Pool you will go past the Evinrude family cottage.Their big ship was not there when we were there. The bottom has good holding but is VERY weedy. Be prepared to deal with a huge ball of weeds as you raise anchor. The hike to Topaz Lake is not difficult. The blueberries were small but flavorful. It is possible to get a good photo of your anchored boat from the rocks above Topaz Lake.

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Anchorage Review for Beardrop Harbour

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Mind your charts when entering the anchorage. There is room for a lot of boats. Good holding. A great anchorage.

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Anchorage Review for Hotham Island

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

This anchorage is called Hotham South because the anchoring is in the southeast part of the anchorage. Favor the left side of the entrance to avoid the charted rock. There is room for 10 to 15 boats. A peaceful anchorage.

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Marina Review for Port of Little Current Downtown Docks

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

There is current at Little Current. Look at the ATONS in the channel to determine direction and strength of the current. The dock hands are skilled and do a great job of assisting your docking. Good news-- the new washrooms have showers!! There are washrooms at both ends of the town dock. The grocery store is not a long walk. From the west end of the marina follow the sign up the metal stairs. It is about a block from the top of the stairs. Be sure to stop in for the daily broadcast of Cruisers Net. Laundry is about a block from the town dock.

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Marina Review for Blind River Marine Park

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

The work being done that was mentioned in previous posts has been completed. There are LOTS of shower stalls and toilets in the washrooms. My wife said, "There are more shower stalls and toilets than in a high school locker room!" The small shop sells some navigation charts (this is the first place in Canada we have seen them for sale). As previously mentioned, the staff are friendly and helpful. The breakwater does little to protect the marina from wind from the west. There is a boating supply store a block away. There is a store that makes great bread that is 3/4 of a mile away on the "main street" of town. An ice cream store is just two door past the bakery!

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Marina Review for Hilton Beach Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Hilton Beach Marina is a great first stop after leaving Sault Ste. Marie by the St. Mary's River. Different colored flags on each dock make finding your assigned slip quite easy. Washrooms are at each end of the marina so that is isn't a long walk from your slip. The washroom at our end of the marina was located in the "boaters lounge" - a nice touch! The staff were very friendly and helpful. The restaurant near the marina was quiet good - it outdoor seating. A little store was a block away and had an amazing selection of products.

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Marina Review for Roberta Bondar Transient Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 13, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The Roberta Bondar Marina is an easy place to enter Canada. The marina looks to be fairly new. The finger docks are quite narrow and tippy. The finger docks are also short (our 40' boat was 8' longer than the finger dock). There is a long side-tie dock at the far end of the marina but it had very few dock cleats! Speaking of dock cleats, the dock cleats are mounted on a track that runs the length of the finger docks. The cleats are movable - use a hex wrench to loosen and tighten. Someone had loosened the cleat the the dock hand was using on our spring line. The cleat moved 3 or 4 feet before I was made aware of the situation! The dock hand got a wrench from the office and tightened the cleat.
There are many events and concerts that occur at the park adjacent to the marina. Good washrooms and laundry room. Marina staff was very friendly and helpful. No grocery store near the marina. It is a short walk to the bush plane museum. We enjoyed our stay at this marina.

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Marina Review for Roberta Bondar Transient Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The Roberta Bondar Marina is an easy place to enter Canada. The marina looks to be fairly new. The finger docks are quite narrow and tippy. The finger docks are also short (our 40' boat was 8' longer than the finger dock). There is a long side-tie dock at the far end of the marina but it had very few dock cleats! Speaking of dock cleats, the dock cleats are mounted on a track that runs the length of the finger docks. The cleats are movable - use a hex wrench to loosen and tighten. Someone had loosened the cleat the dock hand was using on our spring line. The cleat moved 3 or 4 feet before I was made aware of the situation! The dock hand got a wrench from the office and tightened the cleat.
There are many events and concerts that occur at the park adjacent to the marina. Good washrooms and laundry room. Marina staff was very friendly and helpful. No grocery store near the marina. It is a short walk to the bush plane museum. We enjoyed our stay at this marina.

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Marina Review for George Kemp Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We stopped at the George Kemp Marina after exiting Lake Superior. Easy to get into the marina. Dock hands did a good job. Washrooms were clean and well kept. A great place to watch the large ships enter and leave the locks. It was a bit of a walk to get to the Soo locks welcome center and viewing area.

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Marina Review for Burt Township Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jul 5, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

This is a nice place to get off the lake. The marina is just a wall. There is room for 5 or six boats. 50 Amp and 30 Amp are available. Restrooms and shower were built a few years ago and nice. The challenge with the shower is that each vessel is given a key (a good thing),; however, there is no lock from inside the shower room to keep other boaters from unlocking the door and coming in. This locking situation is to keep people from town from getting into the shower room (if someone forgot to lock it upon exiting) and locking the door and sleeping in there. The center of town is a couple of blocks away and has a variety to stores and services.

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Marina Review for Cinder Pond Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 29, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

This is a great marina. Staff are top notch. The restrooms and and showers are the nicest and cleanest that I have ever seen at a marina!!! The marina also has a nice boaters lounge and laundry facilities. A short walk to downtown. Wednesday night there is a farmers market on the main street. This is a great place to stop.

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Marina Review for Big Bay Harbor of Refuge

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 28, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

Check out the USACE soundings in the Waterway Guide or Aqua Map. Hug the starboard breakwater to avoid the shoaling. We saw depths of 5' " when entering the harbor. The harbor hosts said the depth in front of the gas dock was 4'. Transient docking is along the wall after the gas dock. Seasonal moorage has the rest of the wall. The harbor hosts are great!! The marina office is being remodeled. Restrooms and shower were very clean. A good place to spend the night or to get out of rough water.

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Marina Review for Houghton County Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

The marina is located on the north shore (the Hancock side) of the Keweenaw Waterway River. It is easy to pull right into your assigned slip. The fuel dock and pump out are located in the middle of the marina - by the boat ramp. Diesel and gas are available. The bathrooms and shower are clean. The staff were VERY helpful and friendly. The bridge across the Waterway was built with a railroad track on the lower deck and car traffic on the upper deck. Trains no longer use the bridge - the tracks have been removed. In the winter the bridge is kept in the lower position so that snow mobiles can use the lower deck to cross the river. The bridge clearance in the lower position is 7 feet. The rest of the year the bridge in normally in the upper position with about 30 feet bridge clearance. Call the bridge on vhf 12 or 16 when you are half mile away for bridge clearance. The bridge has clearance for sailboats and large ships. I would have rated the marina as a 5 but the marina is a little rolly because there are no wake restrictions on the river.

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Marina Review for Ontonagon Village Marina Isle Royal

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

Take 2 on my review of Ontonagon Village Marina.

Follow the ATONs into the marina. Fix docks with 8×8 pilings on the outside of the dock. Use care that your fenders do not get hung up. Great restrooms and showers. Friendly staff and people at the dock. The only fuel is gas. The historical lighthouse is a short walk from the marina. Do not use Google maps - follow the signs! It is well worth the trip. A shuddle can take you into town. This is a simple, older, quiet marina. A good place to spend the night.

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Marina Review for Black River Harbor (Harbor of Refuge)

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 23, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

Black River Harbor is a harbor of refuge. Great care must be used when entering the harbor. Use Aqua Map to view the USACE's most recent soundings. There is a submerged rock in the harbor just below the surface and parts of the harbor are shallow. The green can bouy in the harbor is in shallow water. We watched people walk out to the green can from the shore! When entering the harbor turn 90 degrees to starboard and stay fairly close to the breakwater until you are about 3/4 of the way to shore. Then turn to port and go to the older wooded harbor wall. The newer wall after the wooden wall is for seasonal moorage renters. There are 30 Amp outlets that do not work. The 120 v outlets do not work. There is a boat ramp just past the newer harbor wall. DO NOT tie up past the ramp. SHOAL!! Local knowledge is needed to avoid the shallow water and rocks. Black Harbor is a day-use park run by the U.S. Forest Service. The pavilion and its bathrooms are closed. There are no services! There is a port-a-potty by the pavilion that was not very clean. A much nicer outhouse building is located on the way to the foot bridge that crosses Black River. A nice beach is a short walk from the bridge.

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Marina Review for Saxon Harbor Marina & Campground

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 21, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

Saxon Harbor was destroyed in a flood in 2016. The marina has been rebuilt and looks great. Entering the harbor is easy. Clean restrooms are located in 3 different areas. The shower are by the marina office and are quite a distance from the transient slips. The marina is part of a county campground. The marina is in a rural area. The 30 Amp circuits did not work at the transient slips. The pedestals also have 120 (20 amp) outlets that do work. Bring your own pigtail adapter to use with your 30 Amp cord. Making reservations was a challenge. The website has campsite reservations. Transient dock reservations is under the campsite reservation section of the site. The marina manager was friendly and helpful. We greatly enjoyed our stay at Saxon Harbor. I would rate 5 stars if the electrical issues are resolved and the reservation system was easier to navigate.

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Marina Review for Washburn Marina

Reviewed by: Lance Williamson on Jun 18, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

We have had our boat stored in the heated indoor storage. This is a very good marina. Staff is friendly and helpful. There is Diesel and gas at the pumps. The grocery store is a 4 block walk if you follow the foot path to the street (a 6 block walk if you follow the streets. A small, but well equipped hardware store is 4 blocks away. The bathrooms and showers are clean and at the head of the dock. The marina has a small store with boating supplies.

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