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Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter
a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Dean B wrote:
I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. Two words... Buzzards Bay. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Neither have much wind in the summer, and both are often beastly hot. Actually the lower Chesapeake is a bit more reliable for sea breeze in the summer, but it still gets hot and it doesn't compare with the daily hurricane on Buzzards Bay. There, and Cape Hattaras (which is not at all a good place for sailing.... windsurfing, yes) are the two best places for wind I know of on the East Coast. Fresh Breezes- Doug King |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Dean B wrote:
I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. Two words... Buzzards Bay. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Neither have much wind in the summer, and both are often beastly hot. Actually the lower Chesapeake is a bit more reliable for sea breeze in the summer, but it still gets hot and it doesn't compare with the daily hurricane on Buzzards Bay. There, and Cape Hattaras (which is not at all a good place for sailing.... windsurfing, yes) are the two best places for wind I know of on the East Coast. Fresh Breezes- Doug King |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute
best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute
best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Buzzards/Nantucket sound if you want to be able to swim and go to high
end shore attractions. Penobscott bay area otherwise. -- |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Buzzards/Nantucket sound if you want to be able to swim and go to high
end shore attractions. Penobscott bay area otherwise. -- |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
I'll stick my neck out and put in a plug for our beloved Eastern SC
from Winyah Bay at Georgetown down to the Georgia Border, but away from Savannah's waste dumps. There's 3200 miles of navigable waterways, many under sail, within 50 miles of my keyboard, here on the Ashley River at Charleston. Away from the city, you can motor or sail for hours and hardly see another soul. In behind many of our UNINHABITED oceanfront islands, whos nearest roads are sometimes 10 miles to the west, you can anchor out in channels behind them NOT in view of an ICW marker or its traffic, dingy ashore and walk around to your own personal Atlantic beach, where the only other beachgoers either have shells or feathers or scales. None of them play rap music on a ghettoblaster, but may walk over your unguarded blanket and steal your food. We'd appreciate it if the only thing you left on our beach is your footprints. Thanks! Pull out your charts and have a look. Remember the ocean is SOUTHEAST of you, not east, here...(c; 15 miles from Charleston is complete desolation in any direction from the Harbor. "Quiet anchorage" means never hearing another boat at all! Every time I've gone to Florida, I find it as relaxing as driving your limo down Broadway in NYC during rush hour. Every time we got out of the ICW channel, we went aground with a 5' draft. They call it "Saving the Manatees". On 16 Jan 2004 14:51:05 -0800, (Dean B) wrote: I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean Larry W4CSC |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
I'll stick my neck out and put in a plug for our beloved Eastern SC
from Winyah Bay at Georgetown down to the Georgia Border, but away from Savannah's waste dumps. There's 3200 miles of navigable waterways, many under sail, within 50 miles of my keyboard, here on the Ashley River at Charleston. Away from the city, you can motor or sail for hours and hardly see another soul. In behind many of our UNINHABITED oceanfront islands, whos nearest roads are sometimes 10 miles to the west, you can anchor out in channels behind them NOT in view of an ICW marker or its traffic, dingy ashore and walk around to your own personal Atlantic beach, where the only other beachgoers either have shells or feathers or scales. None of them play rap music on a ghettoblaster, but may walk over your unguarded blanket and steal your food. We'd appreciate it if the only thing you left on our beach is your footprints. Thanks! Pull out your charts and have a look. Remember the ocean is SOUTHEAST of you, not east, here...(c; 15 miles from Charleston is complete desolation in any direction from the Harbor. "Quiet anchorage" means never hearing another boat at all! Every time I've gone to Florida, I find it as relaxing as driving your limo down Broadway in NYC during rush hour. Every time we got out of the ICW channel, we went aground with a 5' draft. They call it "Saving the Manatees". On 16 Jan 2004 14:51:05 -0800, (Dean B) wrote: I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean Larry W4CSC |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
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Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
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Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
wrote in message ... Although it is a bit calm in the summer, LIS is actually has the most wind on an annual basis. Boston actually is the windiest seaport in the lower 48 (Chicago isn't close): http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/...d/avgwind.html |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
wrote in message ... Although it is a bit calm in the summer, LIS is actually has the most wind on an annual basis. Boston actually is the windiest seaport in the lower 48 (Chicago isn't close): http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/...d/avgwind.html |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
"DSK" wrote in message ... Dean B wrote: Two words... Buzzards Bay. My words too. I grew up in that area and loved the nice sailing we had. I only wish we had half the wind in coastal South Carolina. Leanne s/v Fundy |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
"DSK" wrote in message ... Dean B wrote: Two words... Buzzards Bay. My words too. I grew up in that area and loved the nice sailing we had. I only wish we had half the wind in coastal South Carolina. Leanne s/v Fundy |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Dean B wrote:
I ... would like to charter a boat on the east cost ... next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else ... I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. So far mentioned are Buzzards, Long Island Sound, the Maine coast, Chesapeake Bay, and perhaps a few others. You haven't given many details (experience, length of cruise, crew, boat size, when in the season, etc.) so it's hard to pin things down. Even so, some valid generalities are possible. For beauty (when you can actually see it) the Maine coast is perhaps at the top of the list, but this depends to some extent on one's preferences. The Chesapeake Bay _in_season_ is to many folks the best looking place to dawdle. Certainly there are more nooks and crannies on the Bay than in most other places, but the Bay may not meet your sailing expectations depending upon when you visit. Southern New England is fine looking to my eye, but except for Gay Head there really aren't many spectacular or "charming" vistas compared to other locales. Different strokes. Long Island Sound is notorious for calm winds in season. Even the daily thermal sometimes doesn't appear. I'd say the most common sight on LIS in summer is a sailboat scurrying east or wet under power. That's been my experience over the last 25 or so years. Mind you, I'm not a resident. Southern New England (aka "Buzzards") can be relied upon for wind (sometimes more than necessary). The problem for me is that, although there are many places to stop, actual anchorage is not always available. Many of the overly-used harbors are filled with expensive moorings, and crowds are guaranteed in places like Marthas and Nantucket. Same for Newport, the Elizabeth Islands, and so on. Of the lot, Block Island will usually offer room to anchor, and even in mid-season it may not _seem_ crowded. But Block is a place to sit for most folks, not to merely overnight. It's a destination rather than a stopover in that limited sense. Depends on your taste. Above the CC Canal, there's perhaps not enough variety to satisfy some tastes until you get to the Maine coast. I have been in most of the harbors on Mass Bay and Cape Cod Bay. I like them quite a bit, but often enough there's not the wind you seem to require. Also the scenery when crossing Cap Cod Bay isn't in the same league as further north and east. That's also the case on LIS. Then there's Maine. Maine for many folks begins east of Muscongus Bay, and gets better the farther east one goes. The problem with this coast is that (a) it takes a more experienced hand (and a better prepared vessel) to really enjoy it, and (b) sometimes you cannot see it. I know many folks who've spent 2 full weeks in fog on this coast. I know just as many who've had clear weather for their entire cruise (well, not _that_ many). I am a Maineiac and have been for some time, but I can understand why some folks would not agree. I go on my own boat and never have anything that resembles a schedule. I would say your short list should include Southern New England and Penobscot Bay, depending on the specifics I mentioned at the beginning of this post. Look for a copy of Bill Robinson's "Places to Cruise." It covers just about all the possible spots on the East Coast (plus some other well known areas). It's long out of print but often available in local libraries. He says it a lot better than I have, although I suspect our conclusions are not very far apart. -- Good luck and good sailing. s/v Kerry Deare of Barnegat http://kerrydeare.tripod.com |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Dean B wrote:
I ... would like to charter a boat on the east cost ... next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else ... I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. So far mentioned are Buzzards, Long Island Sound, the Maine coast, Chesapeake Bay, and perhaps a few others. You haven't given many details (experience, length of cruise, crew, boat size, when in the season, etc.) so it's hard to pin things down. Even so, some valid generalities are possible. For beauty (when you can actually see it) the Maine coast is perhaps at the top of the list, but this depends to some extent on one's preferences. The Chesapeake Bay _in_season_ is to many folks the best looking place to dawdle. Certainly there are more nooks and crannies on the Bay than in most other places, but the Bay may not meet your sailing expectations depending upon when you visit. Southern New England is fine looking to my eye, but except for Gay Head there really aren't many spectacular or "charming" vistas compared to other locales. Different strokes. Long Island Sound is notorious for calm winds in season. Even the daily thermal sometimes doesn't appear. I'd say the most common sight on LIS in summer is a sailboat scurrying east or wet under power. That's been my experience over the last 25 or so years. Mind you, I'm not a resident. Southern New England (aka "Buzzards") can be relied upon for wind (sometimes more than necessary). The problem for me is that, although there are many places to stop, actual anchorage is not always available. Many of the overly-used harbors are filled with expensive moorings, and crowds are guaranteed in places like Marthas and Nantucket. Same for Newport, the Elizabeth Islands, and so on. Of the lot, Block Island will usually offer room to anchor, and even in mid-season it may not _seem_ crowded. But Block is a place to sit for most folks, not to merely overnight. It's a destination rather than a stopover in that limited sense. Depends on your taste. Above the CC Canal, there's perhaps not enough variety to satisfy some tastes until you get to the Maine coast. I have been in most of the harbors on Mass Bay and Cape Cod Bay. I like them quite a bit, but often enough there's not the wind you seem to require. Also the scenery when crossing Cap Cod Bay isn't in the same league as further north and east. That's also the case on LIS. Then there's Maine. Maine for many folks begins east of Muscongus Bay, and gets better the farther east one goes. The problem with this coast is that (a) it takes a more experienced hand (and a better prepared vessel) to really enjoy it, and (b) sometimes you cannot see it. I know many folks who've spent 2 full weeks in fog on this coast. I know just as many who've had clear weather for their entire cruise (well, not _that_ many). I am a Maineiac and have been for some time, but I can understand why some folks would not agree. I go on my own boat and never have anything that resembles a schedule. I would say your short list should include Southern New England and Penobscot Bay, depending on the specifics I mentioned at the beginning of this post. Look for a copy of Bill Robinson's "Places to Cruise." It covers just about all the possible spots on the East Coast (plus some other well known areas). It's long out of print but often available in local libraries. He says it a lot better than I have, although I suspect our conclusions are not very far apart. -- Good luck and good sailing. s/v Kerry Deare of Barnegat http://kerrydeare.tripod.com |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
If you are up for it...break away from the states, head north east, and
treat yourself to a real adventure. http://www.canadaeastcoast.com/English/FunWater/C.html Dean B wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
If you are up for it...break away from the states, head north east, and
treat yourself to a real adventure. http://www.canadaeastcoast.com/English/FunWater/C.html Dean B wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all-
sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all-
sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
IIRC, Black Fly season is late spring, early summer - it should be over by July
4th. As someone else pointed out, Labor Day is a nice time to head for Maine. Also, places like Martha's Vineyard are really nice starting on Labor Day - the crowds are gone, prices start to fall, moorings can be had cheap or free. Just have a plan for the inevitable hurricane threat - ours is to head north of Cape Cod. "Mark Borgerson" wrote in message t... In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
IIRC, Black Fly season is late spring, early summer - it should be over by July
4th. As someone else pointed out, Labor Day is a nice time to head for Maine. Also, places like Martha's Vineyard are really nice starting on Labor Day - the crowds are gone, prices start to fall, moorings can be had cheap or free. Just have a plan for the inevitable hurricane threat - ours is to head north of Cape Cod. "Mark Borgerson" wrote in message t... In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
In article ,
"Armond Perretta" wrote: Dean B wrote: I ... would like to charter a boat on the east cost ... next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else ... I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. For beauty (when you can actually see it) the Maine coast is perhaps at the top of the list, but this depends to some extent on one's preferences. The Chesapeake Bay _in_season_ is to many folks the best looking place to dawdle. Certainly there are more nooks and crannies on the Bay than in most other places, but the Bay may not meet your sailing expectations depending upon when you visit. snip The Chesapeake CAN be frustrating some days, particularly if you're trying to "get" some place, but if you can work light to moderate air, you can usually get to some nice anchorage as the distances are short. Within 10 nm of our marina (near Rock Hall, one of the rental centers), we have 7 overnight anchorages. Another 5 or so miles and the number at least doubles. We usually stop sailing when VMG goes below 2-3 knots. YMMV. To really get to know the Bay's treasures, check out Shellenberger's "Gunkholer's Guide" to the Chesapeake. -- Jere Lull Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD) Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/ |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
In article ,
"Armond Perretta" wrote: Dean B wrote: I ... would like to charter a boat on the east cost ... next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else ... I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. For beauty (when you can actually see it) the Maine coast is perhaps at the top of the list, but this depends to some extent on one's preferences. The Chesapeake Bay _in_season_ is to many folks the best looking place to dawdle. Certainly there are more nooks and crannies on the Bay than in most other places, but the Bay may not meet your sailing expectations depending upon when you visit. snip The Chesapeake CAN be frustrating some days, particularly if you're trying to "get" some place, but if you can work light to moderate air, you can usually get to some nice anchorage as the distances are short. Within 10 nm of our marina (near Rock Hall, one of the rental centers), we have 7 overnight anchorages. Another 5 or so miles and the number at least doubles. We usually stop sailing when VMG goes below 2-3 knots. YMMV. To really get to know the Bay's treasures, check out Shellenberger's "Gunkholer's Guide" to the Chesapeake. -- Jere Lull Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD) Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/ |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
x-no-archive:yes
"Jeff Morris" wrote: IIRC, Black Fly season is late spring, early summer - it should be over by July 4th. As someone else pointed out, Labor Day is a nice time to head for Maine. Also, places like Martha's Vineyard are really nice starting on Labor Day - the crowds are gone, prices start to fall, moorings can be had cheap or free. Just have a plan for the inevitable hurricane threat - ours is to head north of Cape Cod. THere are flies in the Chesapeake too. After the first time, we've never gone out without a fly swatter. It is possible to step on them or swat them with something else, especially after they've bitten you and are full of blood, but it's easier with a fly swatter. They are around anytime there's little or no wind. "Mark Borgerson" wrote in message et... In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean grandma Rosalie |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
x-no-archive:yes
"Jeff Morris" wrote: IIRC, Black Fly season is late spring, early summer - it should be over by July 4th. As someone else pointed out, Labor Day is a nice time to head for Maine. Also, places like Martha's Vineyard are really nice starting on Labor Day - the crowds are gone, prices start to fall, moorings can be had cheap or free. Just have a plan for the inevitable hurricane threat - ours is to head north of Cape Cod. THere are flies in the Chesapeake too. After the first time, we've never gone out without a fly swatter. It is possible to step on them or swat them with something else, especially after they've bitten you and are full of blood, but it's easier with a fly swatter. They are around anytime there's little or no wind. "Mark Borgerson" wrote in message et... In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. Mark Borgerson "Dean B" wrote in message om... I have some air miles that I need to use up and would like to charter a boat on the east cost of the United States next summer. I am looking for a place with wind; more than anything else, I dislike using the motor to get around. I expect to anchor every night and don't intend to go on any offshore passages. Cute little ports are nice if you need to pick up groceries or a little resturaunt food. I also like anchoring at state parks that have day hikes. Chesapeake Bay looks promising or Florida may have something to offer as well but I have little idea about the wind and park situation. Dean grandma Rosalie |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 10:23:04 -0500, "Armond Perretta"
wrote: Then there's Maine. Maine for many folks begins east of Muscongus Bay, and gets better the farther east one goes. The problem with this coast is that (a) it takes a more experienced hand (and a better prepared vessel) to really enjoy it, and (b) sometimes you cannot see it. I know many folks who've spent 2 full weeks in fog on this coast. I know just as many who've had clear weather for their entire cruise (well, not _that_ many). I am a Maineiac and have been for some time, but I can understand why some folks would not agree. I go on my own boat and never have anything that resembles a schedule. I would say your short list should include Southern New England and Penobscot Bay, depending on the specifics I mentioned at the beginning of this post. Look for a copy of Bill Robinson's "Places to Cruise." It covers just about all the possible spots on the East Coast (plus some other well known areas). It's long out of print but often available in local libraries. He says it a lot better than I have, although I suspect our conclusions are not very far apart. I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a "Religious wisdom is to wisdom as military music is to music." |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 10:23:04 -0500, "Armond Perretta"
wrote: Then there's Maine. Maine for many folks begins east of Muscongus Bay, and gets better the farther east one goes. The problem with this coast is that (a) it takes a more experienced hand (and a better prepared vessel) to really enjoy it, and (b) sometimes you cannot see it. I know many folks who've spent 2 full weeks in fog on this coast. I know just as many who've had clear weather for their entire cruise (well, not _that_ many). I am a Maineiac and have been for some time, but I can understand why some folks would not agree. I go on my own boat and never have anything that resembles a schedule. I would say your short list should include Southern New England and Penobscot Bay, depending on the specifics I mentioned at the beginning of this post. Look for a copy of Bill Robinson's "Places to Cruise." It covers just about all the possible spots on the East Coast (plus some other well known areas). It's long out of print but often available in local libraries. He says it a lot better than I have, although I suspect our conclusions are not very far apart. I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a "Religious wisdom is to wisdom as military music is to music." |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 22:20:01 GMT, Mark Borgerson
wrote: In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. I have had a couple of really distressing mosquito attacks in Maine, but I have never, in 25 years of cruising, experienced black flies on a boat. But, IIRC, the season may be in June? We have cruised Maine in mid May, July, and (mostly) September. Black flies are horrible. I have been eaten by them in the White Mountains of NH. Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a "Religious wisdom is to wisdom as military music is to music." |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 22:20:01 GMT, Mark Borgerson
wrote: In article , jeffmo@nospam-at-all- sv-loki.com says... If you can handle a somewhat more challenging environment, Maine is the absolute best summer cruising ground on the East Coast. I've always wanted to cruise that area. I've even got a chart of the lower Damariscotta and Kennebunk rivers on the wall. However, I have heard that one should be wary of the black fly season---whenever that is. After years of cruising in the nearly insect-free San Juan and Gulf Islands, I never even think to inquire whether a charter boat has screens. I have had a couple of really distressing mosquito attacks in Maine, but I have never, in 25 years of cruising, experienced black flies on a boat. But, IIRC, the season may be in June? We have cruised Maine in mid May, July, and (mostly) September. Black flies are horrible. I have been eaten by them in the White Mountains of NH. Rodney Myrvaagnes NYC J36 Gjo/a "Religious wisdom is to wisdom as military music is to music." |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
"Rodney Myrvaagnes" wrote in message
... I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. I agree completely - Casco Bay may not be considered "Down East" but its still very nice. We always stop a Richmond Island - because it has two harbors and fairly easy approaches its a good target for the end of a long haul. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. By Labor Day the fog can be clearing out. However, in the Summer its not a matter of whether there's fog, but where its sitting. Some years it mostly stays offshore, other years it comes in close. We've only been socked in for several days once, at Jewell Island. We later found there was no fog about a mile towards shore from where we were. Last year we had planned a long Maine trip but punted because of the rain. We heard from cousins that Down East was totally socked in much of the early summer; others said Casco Bay was pea soup much of August. The best thing is to have radar, but no fixed itinerary. BTW, I've never had black flies in coastal Maine, but I have suffered nasty attacks off of Plum Island. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
"Rodney Myrvaagnes" wrote in message
... I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. I agree completely - Casco Bay may not be considered "Down East" but its still very nice. We always stop a Richmond Island - because it has two harbors and fairly easy approaches its a good target for the end of a long haul. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. By Labor Day the fog can be clearing out. However, in the Summer its not a matter of whether there's fog, but where its sitting. Some years it mostly stays offshore, other years it comes in close. We've only been socked in for several days once, at Jewell Island. We later found there was no fog about a mile towards shore from where we were. Last year we had planned a long Maine trip but punted because of the rain. We heard from cousins that Down East was totally socked in much of the early summer; others said Casco Bay was pea soup much of August. The best thing is to have radar, but no fixed itinerary. BTW, I've never had black flies in coastal Maine, but I have suffered nasty attacks off of Plum Island. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
The Chesapeake is nearly perfect for what you want with one big
exception. July, August, and early September can be perfect but also can be very hot with no wind for days on end. New England has cooler water and more wind, but between Memorial Day and Labor Day is severely overcrowded IMHO. Joe |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
The Chesapeake is nearly perfect for what you want with one big
exception. July, August, and early September can be perfect but also can be very hot with no wind for days on end. New England has cooler water and more wind, but between Memorial Day and Labor Day is severely overcrowded IMHO. Joe |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
I spent mostly all last summer cruising and fishing between Kennebunk and Raymond Islands off the coast of Maine and once on the water the flies and mosquitoes were none existent. It's sheer paradise. You could venture north and head for Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor. These are great places to fish, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Both have great restaurants, are very picturesque and a must to visit. Don't overlook Cadilac Mountain if you get to Bar Harbor. "Jeff Morris" wrote in message ... "Rodney Myrvaagnes" wrote in message ... I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. I agree completely - Casco Bay may not be considered "Down East" but its still very nice. We always stop a Richmond Island - because it has two harbors and fairly easy approaches its a good target for the end of a long haul. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. By Labor Day the fog can be clearing out. However, in the Summer its not a matter of whether there's fog, but where its sitting. Some years it mostly stays offshore, other years it comes in close. We've only been socked in for several days once, at Jewell Island. We later found there was no fog about a mile towards shore from where we were. Last year we had planned a long Maine trip but punted because of the rain. We heard from cousins that Down East was totally socked in much of the early summer; others said Casco Bay was pea soup much of August. The best thing is to have radar, but no fixed itinerary. BTW, I've never had black flies in coastal Maine, but I have suffered nasty attacks off of Plum Island. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
I spent mostly all last summer cruising and fishing between Kennebunk and Raymond Islands off the coast of Maine and once on the water the flies and mosquitoes were none existent. It's sheer paradise. You could venture north and head for Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor. These are great places to fish, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Both have great restaurants, are very picturesque and a must to visit. Don't overlook Cadilac Mountain if you get to Bar Harbor. "Jeff Morris" wrote in message ... "Rodney Myrvaagnes" wrote in message ... I agree with most of what Armond says. Exceptions: I would say Maine begins at Cape Elizabeth, not Muscongus Bay. There are some lovely anchorages in Casco Bay if you are willing to sail north for some distance, and aren't trying to make time along the coast. Richmond Island, at Cape Elizabeth, offers a pleasant anchorage even if you are trying to make time along the coast. I agree completely - Casco Bay may not be considered "Down East" but its still very nice. We always stop a Richmond Island - because it has two harbors and fairly easy approaches its a good target for the end of a long haul. Same for the Sheepscot River. Cruising in September, we have had as many as 13 days straight of super-clear weather. When Labor Day is early, we have often arrived to meet thick fog, sometimes lasting 2 or 3 days. Usually clear for the remaining time. By Labor Day the fog can be clearing out. However, in the Summer its not a matter of whether there's fog, but where its sitting. Some years it mostly stays offshore, other years it comes in close. We've only been socked in for several days once, at Jewell Island. We later found there was no fog about a mile towards shore from where we were. Last year we had planned a long Maine trip but punted because of the rain. We heard from cousins that Down East was totally socked in much of the early summer; others said Casco Bay was pea soup much of August. The best thing is to have radar, but no fixed itinerary. BTW, I've never had black flies in coastal Maine, but I have suffered nasty attacks off of Plum Island. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Try Hinckley Yacht Charters:
http://www.acadia.net/hyc/ While you aren't quite far enough to the NE, you will be on the doorstep to god's country. I have been throughout the Caribbean, almost all of the Bahamas, and the entire east coast of the US from Key West to New England. These are the finest cruising grounds on this side of the Atlantic, BAR NONE! PS: I have no affiliation with HYC, nor have I ever chartered with them, but I have cruised this coast many times, and plan to be back again soon. There are also other charter outfits in the area. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
Try Hinckley Yacht Charters:
http://www.acadia.net/hyc/ While you aren't quite far enough to the NE, you will be on the doorstep to god's country. I have been throughout the Caribbean, almost all of the Bahamas, and the entire east coast of the US from Key West to New England. These are the finest cruising grounds on this side of the Atlantic, BAR NONE! PS: I have no affiliation with HYC, nor have I ever chartered with them, but I have cruised this coast many times, and plan to be back again soon. There are also other charter outfits in the area. |
Best East Coast Summer Cruising Grounds
On the HYC site, first sentence, they refer to the only fjord in the East.
There actually is a freshwater fjord in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland...but it might be expensive to have your sailboat flown in. :-) see: *** http://parkscanada.pch.gc.ca/pn-np/n...ne/index_E.asp *** Wwso149874 wrote in message ... Try Hinckley Yacht Charters: http://www.acadia.net/hyc/ While you aren't quite far enough to the NE, you will be on the doorstep to god's country. I have been throughout the Caribbean, almost all of the Bahamas, and the entire east coast of the US from Key West to New England. These are the finest cruising grounds on this side of the Atlantic, BAR NONE! PS: I have no affiliation with HYC, nor have I ever chartered with them, but I have cruised this coast many times, and plan to be back again soon. There are also other charter outfits in the area. |
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