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Comments from Your Cruise Director | Cruising Tips | Navigation Rules
Well, summers’s here and already most have forgotten how cold it was over the winter months. Notice how we in Florida refer to December thru February as the winter months-I thought “winter” was a northern term. Already the cry of “it’s too cold to take her out” has changed to “it’s too hot” or “it might rain and thunder” or a host of other hollow reasons to keep the dock lines tied tight. I’ve come to realize that if you live in Colorado you own a snowmobile and skis, in Texas you own a horse and a gun, and in Florida you own a boat, whether you use it or not. I had a choice of moving to Arizona on Lake Havasu where I had a house and a boat or moving to Florida where I’d have to buy a house and a boat. Lake Havasu is beautiful and fresh water and confining. Florida is beautiful, blue water, and almost unlimited for sailing opportunity. Easy decision! Someone once asked me what I do when I’m not sailing and my reply was, “I think about sailing”. So, yes, it has been my passion since I was 12 years old and I am fortunate to have a First Mate who shares that passion.
You don’t have to have our kind of passion to enjoy your boats. Just decide to spend some of your time enjoying the peace and tranquility that awaits you away from the dock. We love our little Miata sports car but the highways are a bit crowded – the Gulf isn’t and we’d welcome some company out there. “Not enough time” is a poor excuse – we all have all the time there is. So, the next time tide is favorable and the sky is blue, TAKE HER OUT!
John Cover, Cruise Director
(H) 727-856-6999 (C) 727-858-1504
Email: jnel2@tampabay.rr.com
“The Fine Sport of Going Nowhere Slowly”
July 17-18: Night Sail to Clearwater & Return
August 28-29 - Women's Anchorage @ Anclote
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'Radio Check': We've all heard the many ways (most of them incorrect) of getting a radio check. On our recent cruise we began to hear of a new method which has been established by one of the tow companies. Using channel 27, transmit "Radio Check" and an automated voice response will reply. Simple as that. I tried it in several areas and it works. I'm attempting to find out just what coverage area it applies to as I also know of another channel in the Virginia area. More Later.
safe and enjoyable cruising. Anyone who has information they feel should be added
is encouraged to contact the Cruise Director. All ideas will be considered.
Check Running and Anchor Lights. Carry auxiliary anchor light.
SeaTow – they will advise a WORKING CHANNEL. DO NOT ASK FOR A RADIO CHECK
ON CHANNEL 16 – This is a violation of correct Radio Telephone Procedure and, when
the Coast Guard hears it, they will so advise you. Review the proper manner in which to
report/announce a problem, be it minor or major, such as “Securite’, PanPan, MayDay.
“Silence’ ( pronounced See-launce ) is sometimes used by Coast Guard to advise all
boaters to cease using Channel 16 during an emergency conversation between a vessel
in distress and the USCG. Regardless, when you hear USCG speaking to a vessel in
distress, refrain from using Ch 16 so as to not interfere with their transmissions. In
addition to the above, always monitor the Marine Information Broadcasts on Ch 22
when announced by USCG. Although they are recorded and sometimes get very
repetitive, very important information such as current water hazards, etc. are broadcast.
-Sail Plan: Even on Daysails and always on overnight trips, advise a family member, friend, or
neighbor of you intended destination and expected date/time of return. You can download
a form from this site above.
INSTEAD OF HAVING TO DEAL WITH LAUNDRY SOAP AND DRYER SHEETS, PUREX MAKES A 3 IN 1 LAUNDRY SHEET JUST TOSS IT IN THE WASH AND THEN THE DRYER. IT MAKES LAUNDRY DAY A LOT EASIER :-)
REYNOLDS AND ZIP LOCK MAKE A HAND HELD VACUUM FOR SEALING QUART AND GALLON SIZE BAGS. THIS IS AN EASY WAY TO KEEP SOME FOODS FRESHER. NOTE; DO NOT VACUUM SEAL POTATO CHIPS UNLESS YOU WANT POTATO CRUMBS :-(
USE EXTRA LARGE ZIP LOCK BAGS TO PACK CLOTHES. THE BAGES ARE SEE THROUGH AND THEY KEEP THE CLOTHES DRY AND ORGANIZED :-)
AS YOU USE THE MILK FROM PARMALAT OR DRY MILK TRANSFER THE REMAINDER TO 1/2 QUART OR PINT LIQUID CONTAINERS TO SAVE SPACE IN THE FRIDGE :-)
THE GREEN BAGS USED TO KEEP FRESH FRUITS AND VEGGIES FRESHER LONGER REALLY DO WORK :-)
TRY TO HAVE A MEAL PLAN AND WHEN STOWING PROVISIONS KEEP THE MEAL ITEMS TOGETHER IF YOU CAN. IN THE MORNING TAKE OUT WHAT YOU NEED AND HAVE IT HANDY SO YOU’LL HAVE MORE TIME FOR SUNDOWNERS :-)
SAVE THOSE COMPLIMENTORY SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS-THE LESS YOU HAVE TO CARRY TO THE SHORE SHOWERS THE BETTER :-)
Offshore Cruising Tip #1 - JACK LINES & HARNESSES:
-Jack Line is a line or web strap that can be attached closest to the point of exit from the cockpit and
must be long enough to reach the bow. It is suggested that there be one for each side of the vessel,
the purpose of which is to have a static line on which a crewman can attach a tether when it is
necessary to leave the cockpit in heavy seas or at night.
-Harness is just that (remember when you were a toddler). Harnesses come with or without the ability
to be inflated into PFD’s. Regardless of the model, all have a “D” ring on which a tether (usually 6’ long
made of web strap, 4000lb test) can be attached. Tethers can be attached in the cockpit to the binnacle
brace or other fixed-mounted hardware, the purpose of which is to keep the crewman on the boat in
event of capsize or similar occurrence. In addition, when necessary to leave the cockpit, the tether can
be attached to the Jack Line to prevent loss of crew overboard. RULE ! A crewman NEVER leaves the
cockpit at any time unless there is another crewman in the cockpit. If your harness is not one with the
inflation capability you must also wear a PFD in these described situations.
Offshore Cruising Tip #2 - DSC / MMSI:
-DSC: Digital Selective Calling enables enhance radio signals to be transmitted digitally.
-MMSI: Marine Mobile Service Identity is a 9-digit number unique to the radio/boat for which it is
registered. Along with DSC, think of it as “Caller ID”.
-VHF radios (fixed mount) manufactured since 1999 all have DSC capability (FCC req.). If your radio
is so equipped (look for a red lift shield on the face) you have DSC. In event of distress one needs
only to lift the red shield and press the button which, in turn, sends out a signal. Channel 70 has
been reserved for this purpose and can only be used when operating under DSC.
-VHF/MMSI: The next step is to secure your unique MMSI number which can easily be done by accessing
the BOAT US website-It’s Free and there is a good tutorial available. The MMSI attached your
specific boat information so the Coast Guard knows who you are in event of emergency.
CAUTION: DSC-VHF radios can accept two MMSI’s ONLY! So, be wide awake when you
enter your number and have the manual handy (manual instruction can be downloaded if you
don’t have one) because after two numbers, you must send the VHF back to factory to be
reset in order to accept a new number.
-VHF/MMSI/GPS: The best safety feature of the technology is that the GPS, via NMEA (an electronics &
data specification) that allows communications / navigational instruments to “talk” to
each other. So, if your radio is DSC equipped and you have a GPS with NMEA
capability, you can connect the designated NMEA color coded wiring and when both
the VHF and GPS are operating, your LAT/LON will appear on the screen of your VHF
and the best part is if you have to activate the DSC function, it sends your location to
Coast Guard as well as other DSC equipped vessels!
NOTE: All this special technology falls under a program called RESCUE 21 and while it is not yet active
in all jurisdictions it does work from New York to Florida, the eastern Gulf coast and as far as
Houston Texas. If you have further questions, access the BOAT US website for very informative
FAQ’s etc. If you wish assistance with the wiring, etc. feel free to call Cruise Director John (2010).
Offshore Cruising Tip #4 – EPIRB:
-Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon / EPIRB: A device that can be manually activated or is
automatically activated upon contact with water in the event of capsizing, sinking etc.
-EPIRBs come in various models and cost ranges from low hundreds to $1,000.00 plus. In addition to
the standard EPIRB, one can now purchase a “personal” model that can be attached to the PFD.
-EPIRBs are registered via FCC and, similar to the DSC/MMSI, transmit date identifying you and your
vessel.
-EPIRBs are recommended for long, open water crossings when the vessel is out of VHF and/or Cell
phone range and in addition to the emergency signal, your position is broadcast.
-EPIRBs can be rented from BoatUS and several other firms. Check the Internet.
Overboard (Ditch) Bag:
-Every vessel should have an “overboard (ditch) bag” ready at all times. In the event the vessel must
be abandoned, time will be critical; thus, a pre-prepared bag containing necessary survival and safety
items will ensure the crew leaves the vessel prepared.
-Obvious items include (but not limited to):
-Hand Activated Aerial Flares Dry Clothing
-Whistle and/or Horn Water
-Mirror for signaling MRE’s
-Flashlight & Spare Batteries Tools for Dink Engine
-First Aid Kit Hand Held VHF & GPS
-Compass Sun Screen
-Check Internet for additional ideas, suggested items.
Cruising Tip #5 – Rafting Up: Under proper sea and weather conditions, rafting up is a great way for
cruisers to socialize and enjoy the pleasures of being out on anchor.
Proper Steps to Follow:
- Equipment Needed: Three (3) fenders recommended and four (4) dock lines
-Communication between anchored and rafting vessel as to who provides lines, fenders.
Suggested method is for anchored vessel to set fenders and lines. This way, the rafting
vessel can concentrate on steerage.
-Anchored vessel advises which side the rafted vessel will be positioned
-Rafting vessel approach upwind from aft at approximately 20-30 degree angle, slow speed
-Both vessels have crew on deck to handle lines
-Rafting vessel should coast to stop, abeam and 3-5 feet from anchored vessel
-Make certain spreaders are offset
-Anchored vessel passes lines to rafting vessel in order:
-Bow Line, Forward Spring, Stern Line, Stern Spring
-Tighten lines, check spreaders again for offset, adjust if necessary.
-Secure lines but not too tight!
-Clear decks of obstructions that can cause tripping, falling.
-Wear proper footgear-you are on someone else’s vessel
-Cross over bow to beam, never through cockpit area
-Enjoy the company of friends!
-BREAK THE RAFT BEFORE NIGHTFALL FOR SAFETY!
Cruising Tip #6: Night Sailing: It has been said that sailing at night under light of a full moon is the
highlight of sailing experience. This is true! However, night sailing brings, with the pleasures,
some special considerations for a safe, enjoyable experience.
-Plan the sail well in advance and advise all crew the route, waypoints, and schedule of
watches. Depending upon the number on board, watch duties will vary but stay fresh and
well rested!
-Before the onset of darkness, decide on the sail (or power) plan. If any heavy, squalled
weather is expected, it is suggested that sails be reefed before darkness. If sailing downwind
ie. running before the wind, it is suggested a “preventer” be rigged to prevent accidental gybe.
-Charts of the area to be traversed should be at the ready and the course, rhumb line shown.
-From the onset of darkness to at least daybreak, position, course, speed should be recorded
every hour minimum and plotted on the chart for record and verification.
-Cockpit instrument lights should be dimmed and below deck lights should be dimmed. Most
experienced cruisers have a “red bulb” in an overhead light below decks for night time use
to preserve night vision.
-If crew numbers necessitates only one person on watch, be certain to waken another if it is
necessary to leave the cockpit.
-Be vigilant to detect lights of other vessels, underway or on anchor. Communicate with any
other vessel whose position, course gives concern to your course or right of way.
-Sailing vessels under power are required to display the same lights as power vessels, green/red
on bow and a 360 degree white light. The“steaming light” on the forward side of the mast along
with the white stern light satisfies the requirement.
Cruising Tip #7: Anchoring for the Night:
-In a “tight” anchorage, if possible, ascertain from neighboring vessels the amount of scope
they have used and if you consider that safe, ie. 7:1 ratio, do the same. Don’t use a great
variance as when the boats swing your vessel will be out of sync with others. It is a good
idea to always anchor behind another vessel as opposed to in front where, obviously, you
may be over top another anchor. Using a “float” marks your anchor for others to stay clear.
-Confirm the anchor is holding by taking several bearings on shore points and check again
in a half hour. Set your anchor watch/alarm on the GPS. Vessels with both a cockpit fixed
mount GPS as well as a HandHeld unit should consider setting the HH unit below decks to
ensure you are awakened by the alarm.
-Make sure the dinghy is riding properly and oars are stored inboard.
-Check hatches, screens, canvas covers to make sure they are secure
-Remove laundry from the lifelines
-Secure halyards and other loose gear to prevent noise
-Anchor lights are required in all “non-designated” anchorages. Mooring fields, as a rule
ARE NOT designated anchorages. Boaters have been fined in Boot Key, Marathon for not
displaying and anchor light. The light should be mast head mounted however, on sailboats,
an auxiliary can be hung from the forestay six (6) feet above the deck. Some jurisdictions
permit an auxiliary on other areas of the vessel. It is best to check with the Harbormaster
for local rules as local law enforcement interpretations of law seem to vary!
-Prior to retiring for the night, take a look at your surroundings and, should you wake up
during the night, take another look to see if any change has occurred. In most anchorages
it is customary for the boat to swing 180 degrees due to tidal changes.
-Weather is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic influences on cruising as well as daysails. In this computer age there is a wealth of information and sites from which you can draw to keep you informed. In addition to the websites available online, with the advent of Iphones and similar devices, boaters can access “real time” weather information such as data from weather buoys or near-shore land based stations for wind, temperature, sometimes sea conditions, etc.
Some suggested sites are:
-Stormpulse: Satellite photo of the earth showing cloud cover, rain, alerts for tropical storms hurricanes, etc. and tracking information on each. Available via computer and/or devices such as IPhones.
-NOAA: Available online, IPhone, as well as VHF radio.
-Weather Buoys: USF Comps site lists buoys on the Gulf Coast where you can get current observations on wind, temp, tide, and more. Available to download on most online devices.
-Dial A Buoy: This program, while available on you PC/LapTop, is a way you can call up the program on cell phone and by entering the buoy designation, hear real time information on wind speed/direction, etc. You can load each buoy address/designation into your cell memory. See website: www.ndbc.noaa.gov/dial.shtml
NOTE: During the Nov. 2009 Ft. Myers Sandblast Cruise, we traveled north during an offshore hurricane which had an effect on coastal and inland waters. We were able to get data hourly on conditions at our location and all points ahead during each days passage, affording us the opportunity to make good, safe decisions on staying put, continuing, and the route to use. Suggest each boater develop a group of preferred sites from which to access data.
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