Trailer/Sailors Association The magazine of the Spring 2004 Trailer/Sailors Association
Features/anouncements Front Cover Welcome Aboard CS Editor 1 President s Column John Clement 24 From the T/SA Web Discussion List ed. John Coppedge 28 Ramp Report: Lake Champlain John Ulmer Back Cover Welcome New Members Back Cover Member Ads
Cruising Articles 2 A Royale Cruise Mark Prouty 11 Sailing the Great Lakes Tom Larimer 18 Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River David & Joyce Craigie
How-To 9 Tiller Tie Rod Gordon Lepley 17 Install a Fishfinder On Your Sailboat Joe Orinko
Planned Cruises 15 Eleventh Annual 1000 Islands Cruise Bob Borden 27 Summer Solstice: USPS Rendezvous & T/SA Cruise Rick Bowman 31 North Channel Cruise: Discover Manitoulin Island John Travis
1000 Islands Cruise Summer Solstice Cruise North Channel Cruise June 19 - June 26 2004 June 20-July 4, 2004: July 17-31, 2004: Contact: Bob Borden, (570) Contact: Rick Bowman, (810) Contact: John Travis, (920) 459- 724-5601; [email protected] 577-4430; [email protected] 8382; [email protected] See Page #15 See Page #27 See Page #31
The authors of the newsletter disclaim any and all responsibility for any kind of injury or damages sustained which may result from the application of any or all ideas or suggestions appearing in any articles of Clipper Snips. The authors of the newsletter furthermore give no warranty, express or implied, as to the merchantability, fitness for purpose, advertised quality, or any other matter of any products advertised in Clipper Snips or appearing in any articles of said newsletter.
Clipper Snips Page 1 Spring 2004
Welcome Aboard...
One afternoon last season, Sue was Recent member, Mark Prouty, Ulmer, submits his Ramp Re- motoring us back through the chan- shares a family cruise around Isle port: Lake Champlain in this nel after an afternoon of sailing. Royale on Lake Superior in A issue. I personally think John Slowly passing us was a flying Royale Cruise. This article should consider assembling a bridge powerboat, with Mr.Captain includes all the very best things of cruising guide of his ramp re- up on the bridge, and the Mrs. Cap- trailer/sailing making memories ports. If I was considering a tain sitting alone down in the cock- which will last a lifetime. cruise anywhere new, John would pit. I thought to myself, Does this be the first resource I d consult. guy know how to have fun boat- Included in this issue are invita- n Sailing the Great Lakes, Tom ing? tions/specifics for 3 summer cruises: Larimer describes a 4 week cruise Sue & I belong to a yacht club. It s which included the Apostle Is- 1.Eleventh Annual 1000 Islands a pretty down-to-earth version (we lands, North Channel, and Eastern Cruise in the Northeastern part refer to it as the boat club). Its Lake Erie. membership is about 90% power; of Lake Ontario I ve noticed that our email Yahoo sailors are the minority, and they 2.Summer Solstice: USPS Ren- group server, TRAILSAIL has take a little verbal abuse. But they dezvous & T/SA Cruise is a been getting more active. In don t razz me as much. I ve over- one-week cruise of the Michi- From the T/SA Web Discussion heard them say Orinko, Ya he gan thumb with (optional) start List, John Coppedge lists the uses his boat and also, Orinko, off in Caseville, MI with the US most interesting topics. But every Ya his wife made him buy a bigger Power Squadron of Flint Michi- T/SA member with email should boat. Could they be more compli- gan. mentary. join this group and participate. 3.North Channel Cruise: Dis- It s a great way to ask questions My secret. I just let Sue steer the cover Manitoulin Island is the and share experience with the boat, as much as she wants. I still annual cruise lead by cruise di- most experienced Trailer/Sailors get to sail and be the navigator, tac- rector John Travis. on the planet. tician, lookout, bowman, anchor- Anyone interested in any cruise, man, mechanic, docking pilot, and Gunkholing Along the Arkan- should read the articles (check the of course, winch grinder. But my sas River by Dave &Joyce T/SA website for much more boat leaves the dock about 4 to 6 Craigie, describes our treasurer, info) and contact the cruise direc- times the club average. And I get doing some Fall cruising in the tor(s). to sail with my best friend. canals and locks of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River So, as you Trailer/Sailor gals (or Last fall, Dave Craigie was show- ing me a device on Incipient, Navigational System. Associate guys) read this issue, tell your cap- Snips editor, Gary Felix, cruised tain. Teach me to sail the boat, which allowed the outboard to turn in sync with the tiller. He this tale through the winding pas- like Sue. Then learn how to read sages of the Microsoft Publisher the telltales, how to steer through a credited Gordon Lepley with the invention, and Gordon sent in a system, resulting in another first tack, and how to sail a course. I class cruising article. think sailing will be much more how-to article with drawings for interesting for you. A Tiller Tie Rod. One useful navigational tool is a Launch Ramp Advisor, John depth finder, and I ve often seen And, you guys, get smart. Give up the Humminbird fishfinders on the helm, and I guarantee you re The Clipper Snips Fall issue: sale for about $80. Having in- going to get lots more smooth sail- Deadline: October 1, 2004 stalled them (successfully) on 2 ing. boats, I wrote up Install a Fish- Focus: finder On Your Sailboat. We do it & we did it articles This issue of Clipper Snips has the Fall boat Maintenance stuff to fire-up your trailer/sailor Cruise Reports: Southern Venues Time for Spring boat maintenance. enthusiasm, so you can get ready We can t wait to Do Launch. for the new cruising season. Cruises, rendezvous, gatherings Joe Orinko, Editor
Clipper Snips Page 2 Spring 2004
President s Column John Clement
I m writing this on the last day of Talking about TRAILSAIL, there mer. If you know of a sailor whose winter. Yea!! Spring tomorrow. has been quite a lot of interesting age or health means sailing is not (I just wish the weather forecast traffic lately. This group is easy to quite as accessible, offer them an had less snow in it). It s the time of use and can be configured to send outing on your boat. If they have a year to take stock of what still you all emails individually or to boat but can t quite handle it any- needs to be done on the boat, to combine them to a daily digest as more, offer to go along as crew so decide what will actually get done I do. You even have the choice of they can get out on the water. You and what might have to be post- reading posts through Yahoo may be the means by which some- poned. groups instead of getting them as one is able to enjoy their last sail. emails. It s really easy to share What a gift that would be. There are quite a few things to cele- ideas on TRAILSAIL, or to ask for brate and share in this edition of At the other end of the experience help or advice when you feel the Clipper Snips. First, a big word of curve, share someone s first sail. need. If you re not a member of appreciation for Clipper Snips, Look for someone who has never the TRAILSAIL community, I en- each edition bigger and better than sailed before and give them their courage you to sign on. This is before. Second, a warm T/SA vote first outing. We try to take out at where advice is shared, new ideas of appreciation to a pair of mem- least one group of sailing newbies are kicked around, and where you bers who ve stepped up to help each season. On Taranui we have can be up to the minute with what make T/SA more effective. Gary a clear rule. Everybody takes a turn is happening in the T/SA world. Felix has agreed to help with Clip- steering. Quite a special feeling (Note: TRAILSAIL is restricted to per Snips as Associate Editor , watching someone s face as they T/SA members only). and Don Zets will be our New feel the tiller come alive in their Member Secretary . When you hand the first time. (of course see Gary and Don say a big we make sure the weather is Thanks . T/SA only works be- easy, and we sit nearby as they cause folk get involved and help learn). This summer I hope make it happen. each T/SA member can share the gift of sailing with at least Good also to see that the number one other person who otherwise of cruises being offered is in- would go without. creasing. More opportunities to sail together means more of us are And of course, don t forget to likely to find a cruise at a time share the Trailer/Sailor family and location that works for us. with your sailing friends. Take Maybe some can even plan to do advantage of the Treasurer s them all. (Can you say Lucky ). Challenge to bring a new mem- As you plan your sailing this T/SA Annual meeting is set for No- ber into T/SA. Spread the word. summer and next, think about vember 6, 2004 in Toronto. The final There are membership forms on whether there may be a chance to details will be on www.trailersailors.org the website, and signing up is build in a cruise to share. You and TRAILSAIL in September. Or really easy. What s the URL don t have to be an expert, just contact one of the officers. you ask? enjoy sailing in the company of www.trailersailors.org others. Let s see more cruises. Next, promise to do something spe- This year the annual meeting will Bring forward your suggestions and cial for yourself this summer. be in Toronto for the first time (due ideas, then once agreed as being a Make the effort to get out on the to tumultuous demand). Please T/SA event, send the plans to Clip- water more. Your boat will appre- plan to join us for the meeting and per Snips, to Mike Nelson for the ciate it, you ll enjoy life more, and dinner on the 6th of November. web site, and as email on the the world will be a better place. Keep an eye on the web page for TRAILSAIL listserv. (If you need further details. help on any of this just ask any one At the same time, do something John Clement, T/SA President of the officers). special for someone else this sum-
Clipper Snips Page 3 Spring 2004
A Royale Cruise Mark Prouty
The previous year (2002), I vaca- Our plan was for my 12-year-old pass through one of the island's tioned in the Apostle Islands with son, Tim, and I to launch the boat channels, The North Gap, towards my 16-foot motorboat. When the at Grand Portage, MN, and sail to the 1st ranger station at Windigo. weather was calm, we could motor Isle Royale, and then sail around It is 183 feet, ran for 20 years and out to the closer of the islands and for 2 weeks. Then wife ,Janet, and had the capacity to carry over 300 do some exploring. It was fun but 14 year old son, Lee, would ferry passengers before it sunk in 1928 from observing all the sailboats over from Michigan, meet us for a on a shoal. The bow sticks up to around, I decided that the next va- week of hiking and camping, and only about 1 foot below water. We cation I took should be by sailboat then all of us would sail back to anchored the sailboat and rowed on Lake Superior. While at one of Grand Portage. the dinghy over to the wreck to the Apostle Islands, I met a recrea- have a look. The water was very After our launch at Portage, there tional sailor who told me the place clear and we could make out the was no wind . So Tim and I mo- to sail was Isle Royale 80 miles to image of ship as we approached. tored over to the island early that- the north. So, after some investiga- The water was cold so I just put a first day. Under power, the boat tion, for most of the next year, I mask on and stuck my head in the only moves at about 6mph so the pulled the equipment together and water to have a look. I could 20 plus miles took us about 4 obtained the literature for making clearly see the bow of the ship, hours. The trip was a little slow on the trip to the Island. The most which I thought was awesome. the way over except for watching useful for this was Bonnie Dahl's From this perspective it didn't look the jumbo 117-foot Rock of Ages "Superior Way". This book had the so big since the stern was down at a lighthouse grow on the horizon. GPS positions and good descrip- sharp angle. Only a dog died in the We also stopped to see the wreck tions of just about everywhere we wreck, but Tim thought the whole of the steamship America. went, which made getting around notion of a sunken ship was spooky very easy. The America is right there as you and despite my continued teasing and coaxing, he wouldn't look. We motored on to Windigo, a beautiful sheltered port with noth- ing but a ranger station and a little store. We were lucky enough to find a pier to tie-up to for our first night since there was some major pier reconstruction going on. We registered and gave the ranger our itinerary. We hadn't named our boat yet and had to come up with one when the ranger asked for it. Tim always liked the Tasmanian devil cartoon character and our boat became the Tasmania. Since there would eventually be 4 people during the course of 3 weeks, we got a yearly pass for $150. It seemed a lot, but we got our money s worth, keeping the rangers busy on several occasions. The island's amenities were very nice. We got our first introduction to the moose at Windigo. I didn't realize Happy Trailer/Sailors: Mark & Tim Prouty (Continued on page 5)
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(Continued from page 4) wards the it but moose spend a good percent- end of the age of time wading or swimming in race, the the water and ducking under to eat winds got the weeds. The first evening Tim a little and I rowed the dingy up the bay slow so we and into a creek. On the way, we started our got our introduction to a wading, motor and weed-eating bull moose. We rowed motor over for a good look. This guy was sailed the big enough that 30 feet was as close rest of the as we cared to go. He hardly no- way. We ticed us and just kept on ducking got our his head under water chomping at motor go- the weeds. The next morning a ing before moose and her calf waded out into Sparky the bay for some chow not far from without the pier where we had slept. This letting him moose looked like she was just know. Not long afterward, Sparky so it looked "professionally rigged." about over her head. She could motor sailed also. However, prior Everything from sail to anchor was keep her head under for a surpris- to motor sailing we did get a good nicely done. ingly long period of time. race in. The winds were coming That night we stayed at Hay Bay, from just the right direction to sail Rowing up the creek at Windigo strictly a boater s cove. We an- close-hauled. Tim calls this the gave us our first introduction to the chored out from the pier since there tippy course. Tasmania sails fairly Isle Royale's Lake Superior camp- was already a power boater tied-up flat on this point of sail. When the grounds. There were some near the there. About 6 guys on this boat wind gusts, like all sailboats, bank of this creek. All the camp- had been out fishing without much weather helm will turn it into the grounds that are on Lake Superior luck. One of them told me he was a wind -. I had changed the rigging have these little lean-to "cabins." little discontented with the way Isle by installing a traveler in the cock- They are nothing more than little Royale treated power boaters in the pit, which allowed me to inch out buildings with a screen door and last few years. According to him, the sails, when I saw a gust coming windows on one side but they're a the rangers hadn't put much effort and avoid the weather helm condi- lot nicer than a tent. They are avail- toward accommodating powerboats. tion. This was our first taste of sail- able on a 1st come 1st serve basis The gas was overpriced (3 plus dol- ing Lake Superior. The high waves so you're not guaranteed one al- lars a gallon). The pier at Windigo and big seas and the fact that we though at most locations there were was not completed and there were had a little friendly race going on some available. no temporary piers with electrical made it very exciting. Tim discov- hookups. I later heard some inter- Our first morning on Isle Royale, ered he had a lot of fun using the esting stories about the conflict be- we decided to sail the 20 miles VHF radio and would contact tween power boaters and the rang- around the southern end of Isle Sparky on occasion to see how they ers/nature types (canoers, kayakers Royale toward Siskiwit Bay. This were doing. Our race mate s boat backpackers and the like). There has to be made in one jump since was also 20 feet but was fairly were more moose here and one there is no shelter along the way. amazing. We were surprised at swam about 30 feet from our boat We had met a couple of guys, Jim what they could get into 20 foot of that evening. In the morning we and Dennis, who were sailing boat. The keel was much deeper swam and exchanged addresses Sparky. We sailed this stretch to- and the cabin taller and wider. It with the guys on Sparky and gether and made a little race out of had a nice little galley, table, and headed towards Malone Bay. it. We did end up winning the sleeping berths that were much bet- prize, some cookies, even though ter set-up than ours. Jim the owner Our plan at Malone Bay was to in- we might have cheated a little. To- had sailed this boat in the Bahamas (Continued on page 6)
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(Continued from page 5) and camp. While we were packing like it had arms since some little flate the Sevlor kayak, load all the at the dock, the water taxi guy who baby leaches were attached. To add necessary gear and paddle down transports canoers and backpackers to Tim's problems, he had just put Siskwit Lake to Wood Lake and from Rock Harbor told us about a sun block on himself. His greased camp there. We arrived at Malone nice swimming hole just up the trail hands made it even harder to get the Bay that afternoon and explored the on the Siskwit River. We went to leaches off. They finally came off area a bit. We hiked the ½ mile this swimming hole and found it to and left only a bloody circle from trail to Siskwit Lake and did some be excellent. The water was fairly where they had been. Fortunately wading, swimming and snorkeling. warm and there was a little water- the wind was at our back as we pad- Siskwit Lake was warmer than Su- fall. I had trouble-dragging Tim dled back in the inflatable kayak. I perior. At Siskwit Lake there is the away from here. We had asked sev- don't think we could have made any start of a little stream - the Siskwit eral people about camping at Wood headway if we had to paddle into it. River. Tim laid down on some Lake, and they had assured us that We arrived back at Malone Bay rocks in the river and let the water there were lean-to cabins at this dock. Our sailboat was still there. wash over him. When he got up he campsite so we packed no tent. There was only one other boat with was full of 16th of an inch green Tim suggested that we bring a tarp people sleeping over at the dock colored leaches. He was a little just in case. We had learned from that night. These power boaters excited about scrubbing them all sleeping in the lean-to cabin the from Michigan were kind enough to off. night before that our ground pads loan us a cell phone. We'd been were too hard, but the inflatable When we got back to the boat, we away for about a week and half kayak was comfortable. We agreed were a little disappointed to see an without any contact. We hiked up to sleep at apposing ends of the armada of power boaters. They had to Siskwit Lake and were able to kayak that night. We paddled on taken over the picnic table at the make a broken cell phone call down to Siskwit Lake to Wood picnic ground close-by and would home. It was good to hear from Lake. It was a beautiful trip. Sisk- holler back and forth to each other; home and to confirm our rendez- wit Lake is really wild with a few but only when their baby wasn t vous in Rock Harbor the following islands and lots of loons. Tim got crying. Tim and I thought sleeping Saturday. Along with some fresh some good pictures. That evening might be a challenge and spent the food, we requested a filter for filter- we arrived at the Wood Lake camp- night in one of the lean-to cabins ing water from the lake. Our sup- ground. The kayak was slow and at the campground. ply was almost exhausted but we bulky and we got a little wet in it so were able to get some from the The following day we packed-up were a bit chilled. It was good to same people who loaned us the cell the inflatable kayak to go to Siskwit see camp but we discovered they phone. Boiling water turned out to Lake, paddle 4 miles to Wood Lake had no lean-to cabins. We slept be a real hassle since it was difficult under the tarp in our to cool it. We had a good night inflatable kayak sleep at the Malone Bay dock. than night. Surpris- ingly, it was fairly The following morning we headed comfortable despite for Rock Harbor, stopping at Chip- a few drops of rain. pewa Harbor on the way. Shortly There's a nice view after motoring the lake for a while of Siskwit Lake the 4 or 5 feet waves starting rolling from that spot. The in from the north. Even though next morning we these waves were big they were went snorkeling at rolling nicely. We'd go up hill on Wood Lake. The one side, break the peak and go water was warm and down hill on the other side with clear. Tim freaked little splash We were both wearing when he saw a cou- raincoats. None of the waves were ple of leaches on his cresting. I suggested to Tim that Waterfall Tim foot. One looked (Continued on page 7)
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(Continued from page 6) seemed to echo off the bluffs at a 24 percent park service surcharge we sail but he wouldn't hear of it Chippewa Harbor, causing one sail- of close to 60 dollars. We also took since the waves were so big. We boater to later mention he could two showers at 3 dollars a piece and found Chippewa Harbor and mo- really hear that odd sounding motor washed our cloths for 12 dollars. tored in for lunch. It was a beauti- across the harbor. Despite the overpricing, Rock Har- ful place with bluffs on both sides. When we left Chippewa Harbor, bor is really a good place to hang Other sailboats were also anchored even though the wind was coming out. We spent several days there. here. from the direction we wanted to The rangers put on some really It was at Chippewa Harbor that I sail, we decided to put up sails and good nature stuff and story telling really began to dislike my Briggs & sail the waves - tacking to Rock kind of shows in the evenings. It is Stratton 5 hp outboard. This is a Harbor. But wouldn't you know it, interesting watching people come new model from Briggs and is noth- the wind died and we ended up mo- and go on the ferries: The Isle Royale Queen, the puke boat, from Copper Harbor; the fast moving Voyager II from Grand Portage which stops everywhere (and takes forever); the huge, slow moving Ranger III from Houghton which can carry full sized power boats on deck. The Ranger III is owned by the park service and delivers all their supplies. We listened a couple of times to the rangers telling peo- ple how to handle themselves on the island. The oddest thing they would say is that "if you see a pud- dle, walk through it to avoid widen- ing the trails." "The people they like to see the most are the ones with muddy boots Boat camping Tim and I still had a couple of days before we were to meet my wife ing more than their lawn mower toring. and older son due in on Saturday attached to an outboard lower unit. Rock Harbor was a welcome relief - coming on the Voyager II. We de- It is air cooled and very noisy. the closest thing to civilization in cided to sail, actually motor, to the Even though my son and I had to over a week and a half. Don't get other side of the island and check- scream over the roar of the motor, I me wrong, we weren't really rough- out Duncan Bay. There are two had tolerated it. This motor lacks ing it. We had plenty of food and campsites here and since the one some of the simple niceties such as water and were never uncomfort- near the mouth of the bay was occu- a latch to hold the motor up and out able or in any real danger, it just pied, we decided to use the one at of the water. I had to tie it up. The seemed that way. We found a place the end of the long bay. We were motor started acting up here at the to sail/camp on the dock. Checking exceptionally happy when we ar- worst time. There is a narrows at out the food was our first priority. I rived at this campsite in mid after- this harbor with a big rock and the purchased a candy bar and a couple noon and nobody was there yet. motor stalled when I was passing of sodas for each of us. We We figured we'd have this beautiful another boat on the way out just at checked out dinner at Rock Harbor isolated spot to ourselves. It was this narrows. We got out of the Lodge - 22 dollars a meal and 4 almost impossible to portage to and harbor but more trouble was to dollars a beer. I broke down and a long way for a canoer or kayaker. come with that pesky poorly de- ordered 3 beers, a kid s meal, and a We setup pier camp at the small signed motor. Also, the noise meal for myself for a total including (Continued on page 8)
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turning off their head back to Rock Harbor. It was a radio, and tak- good decision as far as sailing was ing their dinghy concerned. We got our best high to shore since wind sailing experience that after- the pier was noon. I had to change from the occupied, the Genoa to the smaller working jib opposite hap- because the wind was overpowering pened. They us. It is quite an experience being anchored out out on the deck of a small boat directly in front changing jibs as it ploughs through of us and kept Lake Superior waves. Once the their radio correct jib was in place, the sailing turned-up. Af- was great; however, we had to tack ter a consider- too many times and ended up mo- able amount of toring the last leg back to Rock (Continued from page 7) banter, they managed to get the Harbor. pier, which was only large enough front of their boat to shore about 10 We spent the next day going down for one boat. We put the motor on feet from where were. The family Rock Harbor Channel to see Edison the dinghy and went for a ride up a consisted of a mom, dad and three Fishery and an abandoned copper creek that empties into the bay. daughters between the ages of 8 and mining era lighthouse which the This creek was going for a long 12. We were in a park quite zone park service had fixed-up. Those way and getting us way back in and radios are not permitted. I had fishing guys sure worked their buts there. We were contemplating just to ask the Dad twice, the mom once off. Bummer, as soon as the light- how far we could go when Tim and tell the kids once to turn off the house was finished, copper mining spotted a pesky moose we hadn't radio before they finally turned it ended and the building was aban- seen chowing-down in the creek down and anchored offshore. doned in 1854. The most interest- right in our way only about 10 feet The next morning as we were leav- ing thing in the area was a cabin in front of us. The ranger says that ing Duncan Bay we ran into a guy just south of the fishery. This cabin if a moose alters their behavior Tim and I refer to as the hermit. belonged to Rolf Peterson who was when you are around, you are too We ate lunch at his campground on conducting an Isle Royale hunter/ close. We were too close and Tim the way out of Duncan Bay. This prey study on the wolf/moose. We wanted us to high tail it out of there. campground was deserted except were shown all the goodies by one We left the moose and headed back for the hermit. He had been canoe- of his assistants. Bull moose can to camp seeing a big ol' northern ing Isle Royale for weeks and spent die with their antlers stuck together pike in the creek on the way back. most of his time by himself. He after one jabs an antler into the The worst thing outside the need for looked like a hermit with long gray brain of another leaving a unique immediate medical care happened hair, a scraggly beard and worn out rack set. The 19 plus wolves on the when we were hiking one of the cloths and shoes. He was obviously island can give the 900 plus moose portage trails. We were checking- intelligent; spoke very dramatically, a run for their hides especially the out what they had to go through to from Chicago and on top of news young moose, the old moose the get to Duncan Bay. An annoying and politics. He talked on and on sick moose and the dumb moose. A powerboat towing a dinghy with a about the nasty Bush, "the shrub", bull moose will starve to death dur- local radio was coming down the administration, and corrupt Chicago ing the rutting season. bay. Oh, oh a party boat we figured. politics. He showed us his "Bush We had a great sail up Rock Harbor This boat was heading toward International Terrorist" t-shirt. Channel. The wind was at our back where we were camped so we mo- What an entertaining guy! and we were making 7mph on a tored back in our dinghy to confirm We were going to continue down beam reach - fast for our sailboat. the claim on our pier camp. Our the northeastern side of Isle Royale When we got close to Rock Harbor, worst fears were realized. Instead to Belle Island to camp but there the strangest thing happened. The of anchoring out well away from us, was no wind. Instead we decided to (Continued on page 9)
Clipper Snips Page 8 Spring 2004
A Royale Cruise ...
(Continued from page 8) n't buy the resort ghost story I was ghy powering the kids. As I mo- temperature dropped about 10 de- trying to scare them with. tored a ways down the center of a grees and the wind instantly perfect channel, the motor broke. It From Belle Island, the four of us changed from the south to the north would start and sound great. I motored to McCargoe Cove on the and rapidly picked-up speed. I'm could start it but it would not shift sailboat the next morning. As I ap- glad we were in the harbor that day into gear and was making an awful proached the cove my Briggs & since the water taxi guy told us it grinding sound. I'd had shifting Stratton started puttering like it was was his most challenging day to problems with this motor earlier in about to stall. I pumped the bulb date that summer dealing with the the summer that I had to correct. I and it seemed to limp to the pier. Lake Superior waves. Reportedly knew this problem was more than a We were in luck. The entrance to 20 people puked on the Isle Royale simple adjustment. Despite my me- McCargoe Cove has a beautiful Queen from Copper Harbor that ticulous care for changing lower one-cabin campsite at Birch Island. day. Oh, what excitement! By the unit gear lube, the motor was shot. My family was alone there and we way, my Briggs & Stratton started How can Briggs & Stratton create used the cabin for a pleasant night puttering again as we motored to such an unreliable junky motor? sleep. Rock Harbor. I thought it might be The following morning at Birch a problem with the fuel tank and Later the next day, my Briggs & Island in McCargoe Cove, I called changed tanks. The motor started Stratton motor was on my nerves so the Isle Royale rangers on my hand running again. In retrospect, I think I decided to take a cruise in the din- held VHF channel 16. I couldn't it was the downtime to cool rather reach them but the Thunder Bay than the result of changing tanks We checked out din- coast guard heard my message: that got it going again. ner at Rock Harbor "This is the Tasmania. My engine Well, it was Saturday of week #2 Lodge - $22 a meal is dead. Can you send someone to and Tim and I were expecting my help me? A sailboat just off shore wife, Janet, and son, Lee, on the and $4 a beer. I was monitoring channel 16 and Voyager II out of Grand Portage. broke down and or- heard the call. Not long afterward, They came on the Isle Royale this sailboat motored to my pier. I Queen out of Copper Harbor in- dered 3 beers, a thought this was just a coincidence. stead. The Voyager II was full. Lee kid s meal, and a It wasn't, the owner was listening to and Janet stayed at one of the lean- meal for myself for a my distress call. He motored in to cabins at Rock Harbor that night. with a sailboat. On board was a These cabins are hard to get here. total including a 24 reliable looking 6 hp Nissan out- One night is all that is allowed at percent park service board motor that appeared to be Rock Harbor and Tim and I nabbed used only for his dinghy. I saw this one at 8:00 that morning. surcharge of close to motor and knew it would be exactly what I needed to get my sailboat The next day, the four of us mo- $60. We also took safely back to Grand Portage. I tored to Belle Island. We were the two showers at $3 a couldn't suggest to this owner that only ones in the cabins that night. we borrow this motor to get us A power boater with some ship- piece and washed back. To my surprise, that is ex- wreck divers was next to us at the our cloths for $12. actly what the sailboat owner did. dock. They gave me one of the few He loaned me a 6-hp Nissan out- beers I had the whole trip. I'll never [The VISA commer- board motor. I promised to get it forget them. This island was com- get back to him at Grand Portage by pletely wild and natural looking. It cial would add 11:00 the following day. I could go was odd to consider that in the early Trailer/Sailing with into all the problems I could have 1900's a huge resort was there com- the family - encountered if this sailboat owner plete with a dance hall and golf hadn't loaned me this motor, but I course. Just down from our cabin Priceless. ] won't, except to say he really saved was the remnant of a shuffleboard court from that time. My kids did- (Continued on page 10)
Clipper Snips Page 9 Spring 2004
A Royale Cruise
(Continued from page 9) decision. It was getting toward late n't motor to any other anchorages afternoon and I decided to try to since my GPS wasn't accurate me. make for Huginnin Cove since the enough to show all the shoals and I dropped my wife, Janet, and older waves had settled down. I thought islands along the way. I didn't want son, Lee, off further down McCar- that if we could stay there the night to motor the 20 to 30 miles back to goe Cove to backpack their way we could make it back to Grand Grand Portage at night. The night back to Rock Harbor. My younger Portage the next day. I had the GPS sky seemed a little ominous. It was son, Tim, and I proceeded out to position and figured I could find an flashing off in the distance. It even- Superior. As we got down the east- anchorage after dark. This cove tually started to drizzle. To make ern side of Isle Royale a couple of was described in our book as diffi- matters worse, the fuel line to the miles, the waves got very big. The cult anchoring because of a foul Nissan had developed a pinhole and front hatch wasn't secured well and bottom but giving protection from a the motor wasn't running well. At water started coming in the boat. NE-S winds - exactly where they Tim s instance, I decided to use the were pre- VHF radio and call for help. When dicted to be I got in touch with a ranger, which coming was fortunate since they usually from that don't monitor the radio at night, she night. This suggested we tie to a tree along the turned out shore. Learning from our recent to be the experience, we weren't going to do darkest that. I decided I was just going to night of the drift where we were at until morn- whole trip. ing. We were sitting there an hour We did find or so. I could monitor our approxi- Huginnin mate location off from shore on the Cove after GPS. I also had the opportunity to dark using fix the Nissan gas line leak by re- the GPS but moving the clamp and cutting the it was im- hose a little short and reinstalling possible to the clamp. The ranger called again anchor to say that their radar indicated Tasmania: Chef Tim there. The some thunderstorms moving in bottom was from the Apostle islands. They had solid rock. We tried to tie the boat decided to come out to our location Tim went inside and latched it to a tree but were not successful and and escort us to Windigo through down. The Nissan outboard was Tim slipped off a large rock into the the Northern Gap - the narrows mounted too high on the stern of the water letting out a scream on the where the America shipwreck was. boat and these waves caused it to way down. I was worried that he About an hour and a half later they cavitate when the sailboat hit the was hurt out here in the middle of arrived and we followed them to a peaks slowing us down and making nowhere. As we tried to find a nice safe pier. Arriving there about it difficult to steer. This did cause spot, the boat kept getting dashed 6 am. some concern since we were near against rocks. We were getting ex- Gull Rocks. Several times we We stayed the next two days at hausted from the effort when I de- turned around but eventually made Windigo waiting for the weather to cided we had to get out of there im- it into Todd harbor. We were calm down so we could sail the 20 mediately. Briefly, the notion of amazed to see a very large rock some miles back to Grand Portage. abandoning ship crossed my mind. inches under the water as we ap- Conditions on the third day, Friday, proached Todd Harbor. It had been Once out of Huginnin Cove, we were finally good and we made it charted and Tim successfully navi- found ourselves back on Lake Su- back to Grand Portage under full gated us around it. perior. It was very dark and we sail. could hardly see the shore. I could- At Todd Harbor, I made a very poor Mark Prouty
Clipper Snips Page 10 Spring 2004
Tiller Tie Rod ... Gordon Lepley
Tiller Tie Rod Front attachment Tiller Tie Rod Side attachment
For better control when approach- way) causing a flow along the sides der. You use the tie rod only when ing or leaving a dock try this sim- of the rudder. A motorboat will you need it. Otherwise you pop it ple modification. With some tub- steer as long as it is in gear and the off and store it out of the way. The ing, aluminum straps and bars and propeller is providing thrust. Put tie rod tends to stiffen the steering 1" thick plastic you can make all the motorboat in neutral and you causing more effort to steer. This you need for a great amount of have loss of steering control. is no problem when hand steering stress relief. but would add a load to an autopi- With a tiller tie rod you can have lot. A sailboat has steerage only when the best of both worlds. At low it is moving thru the water (making speeds the motor will do the steer- The location of the motor and the ing. As speed increases (forward type of motor mount will determine How it works or reverse) the rudder takes over. the choice of a tiller mount and a A TTR can be located on the Put the motor in neutral and the pivot block on the front of the mo- front of the motor, or the read, rudder steers as long as the boat is tor or a choice of a tiller extension depending o the motor and tiller moving. on the trailing edge of the rudder and a pivot block mounted on the locations. The diagrams below Docking with a crosswind becomes back comer of the motor. Either show the two configurations. a snap. With both the rudder and system works. One trick (noted on the motor steering you can put the Notice the pivot points on the the drawings) is to locate the motor boat right where you want it. Prop- motor and the rudder pintles pivot block as far off to the side as walk is automatically compensated where the mounting blocks are practical. This helps to prevent the for as you steer. set. The distances between tie rod binding up on a tight turn. these two points are shown as The motor needs to be free to pivot The tie rod yoke can be formed by R-1 and R-2. These measure- with the rudder. The turning, ra- clamping a square bar in a vice and ments must be equal (plus or dius of the motor (called R2 in the using it as a mandrel to form the minus 1 ) or this will not work as sketches) should be the same as the yoke. One inch tubing works the well. The important part is that turning radius (R1) of the pivot best. the motor needs to be free to block mounted on the tiller or the Just remember to set up the tie rod pivot with the rudder. tiller extension pivot block while you are preparing to leave the mounted on the aft edge of the rud- (Continued on page 12)
Clipper Snips Page 11 Spring 2004
Tiller Tie Rod
Tiller Extension Tiller Tie Rod
(Continued from page 11) dock and again as you are setting out your fenders and dock lines in preparation to come in. Docking How to make a TTR: The rear mount for the rudder is with a crosswind becomes a snap. also made of 1 plastic and With both the rudder and the motor some metal. Stainless strap is steering together, you can put the The materials necessary to best; ferris metal could rust, alu- boat right where you want it. Prop make a TTR can be bought at minum could be a little weak. walk is automatically compensated most hardware stores. You will The rudder sketch is an exam- for as you steer. need some tubing and some ple of a rudder mounted block straps, either stainless or alumi- My wife Betty and I also use the tie and the extension necessary to num, two 3/8 bolts and nuts rod while anchoring in the North maintain the proper R-1/R-2 and some 1 thick plastic. Add Channel. After we have dropped a measurement. Remember the to this a little patience and crea- bow anchor and backed up to shore R-1 measurement must equal tivity and you will be rewarded the tie rod is a big help in holding the R-2 measurement. with a nice upgrade for your the boat in position as I row a line boat. The tie rod to shore. The motor mount blocks: The tie rod can be either alumi- Credit for designing the TTR is not num or stainless. The sketch mine alone. T/SA member Mike The block that is mounted on shows the rod with the yokes Collins and I worked on this design the motor is made of 1 thick attached. together while wintering on Mara- plastic. thon in the Keys several years ago. The tiller and rudder blocks: We built it for our own boats, and Editor s Note then I built them for several other The block that is mounted on Trailer/Sailors. It s a nice winter the tiller for the front mount The space limits of Clipper project. TTR is made of 1 plastic. Snips don t do justice to Gordon s blueprints. Contact me directly if I can be of It is basically just a block of any further help. plastic, formed to attach to the For those seriously interested in rudder with a 3/8 hole to ac- this project, please go to the T/ Gordon Lepley cept the tie rod yoke. SA web site. The complete set [email protected] of Gordon s drawings are there
Clipper Snips Page 12 Spring 2004
Sailing the Great Lakes 2003 Tom Larimer
If you are looking for a Northern Jan conceded that we might be able Ate at the Country Kitchen in Ash- Adventure , then look no further to handle Lake Superior. land (don't bother). A little restau- than the Apostle Islands. They of- rant, called Time Out, in Washburn It is a two-day drive from Dayton, fer the best wilderness boating ex- was great for breakfast. We stayed Ohio, to northern Wisconsin. My perience in the lower 48. The only over another day because of rain. intent was to start right after the 4th way to see the Apostles is Dinner at Hugo's Log by boat and since Cabin Restaurant in you re a sailor, you re Washburn was a big im- well equipped to tour the provement. islands. The Apostle Is- Other launch possibilities lands lie off the Bayfield in the area include a ma- Peninsula the northern rina at Port Superior (3 most point of Wisconsin. miles south of Bayfield), Except for Madeline Is- Roy s Point Marina (3 land, they are uninhabited miles north of Bayfield), and are included in the and Schooner Bay Marina Apostle Islands National (a few miles further Lakeshore along with a north). Another one is stretch of shoreline in the Buffalo Bay - formerly northwest part of the Bay- Red Cliff Marina; it is on a field Peninsula. reservation and I ve heard The Apostles have been an they don't have gas. I objective of mine ever Raspberry Island Light Apostles Islands haven't checked these out. since we visited my cousin One other possible launch on Madeline Island in the site is the National Park 70's. My next visit to the Apostles of July weekend, but it was not to Service Visitor Center at Little was 15 years ago on a charter out be. We had a power outage on the Sand Bay straight north on Rt. 13. of Superior, WI, with three other 4th and our electricity was off for More on that later. guys. But I wasn t satisfied yet. two days, which caused a one-day If you have a rainy day in that area After we bought our MacGregor 26 delay. We got to Rockford, Ill on like we did, you can spend some in 93, I wanted to take it to the the 8th and continued to Lake Supe- time at the Northern Great Lakes Apostles, but my first mate was a rior on the 9th. Visitor Center near the junction of little apprehensive. After ten years, We launched Rt. 2 and 13 just west of Ashland. at Washburn Pretty interesting place. The count- Marina, ers and fixtures are made from lum- (Washburn, ber cut from logs that sank in WI). It is a Chequamegon Bay over a century nice facility; ago. The logs were raised, dried good ramp out and cut into boards a number of ($5.00) wash- years ago and are reported to be rooms, show- superior to the lumber available ers, long- today. term parking The weather improved the next day ($5.00/day) and we sailed to Stockton Island. and the slip Many of the islands have small Na- were $1.00/ tional Park Service (NPS) docks ft. We rigged where you can tie up for the night and launched Launch ramp and Marina at Little Sand Bay in the rain. (Continued on page 14)
Clipper Snips Page 13 Spring 2004
Sailing the Great Lakes ...
(Continued from page 13) brisk that it flipped the dinghy. I ters on some of the islands. There for free on a first come first served think I cracked a rib trying to get it was one on Oak Island that night basis. We tied to the dock at Stock- righted so we motored back to the because some campers didn't secure ton, which has the largest dock in marina. No harm done, it just took their provisions in a food locker the islands. Stockton is relatively forever to heal. properly. The food lockers are steel busy and has camping and are provided by the sites and hiking trails. NPS - but you have to There are good anchor- lock them! Other forms ages (sand bottom - clear of wildlife can cause some water) on both sides of a problems, too. Insect re- peninsula Presque Isle pellant and hatch screens Bay and Julian Bay. help quite a bit. Bayfield is the focal point For those of you who like of the Apostles and the to anchor out, there are a Apostle Islands National number of opportunities Lakeshore Headquarters in the Apostles. Just and Visitors Center is lo- watch the weather and cated there. Since it is so wind direction because popular, it s also crowded. none of them are fully We couldn t get a slip in protected like we re used the Apostle Islands Ma- to in the North Channel. rina but they let us tie up If you re thinking about near the gas dock for the going to the Apostles, night. That s an advantage of hav- That afternoon, we motored against check their web site at ing a small boat. For dinner, try the the wind to the west, past the sea www.nps.gov/apis/. It s chock full Pier Plaza, a very nice restaurant caves along the shore, to the little of good info. near the waterfront. We didn't have town of Cornucopia (good marina We were running out of time so we an opportunity to go to La Pointe on but a little primitive). The Village headed back to Washburn to pull Madeline Island but they have a Inn is a short walk from the marina out. We had a good sail as far as nice marina there, too. and it has a good dinner menu. Bayfield then we had to motor the There is a great little country store After breakfast, we started out in rest of the way. Since we launched in Cornucopia - Ehler's - they seem very light air heading north toward in the rain, it was only fair that we to have everything. the NPS Visitor Center at Little pulled out in the rain. We missed a Sand Bay. They have a nice marina Next day, we sailed, motored and lot because of our late start, light with transient docks and a launch motor-sailed from Cornucopia past winds and rainy weather so I m ramp, but, with the low water, there Eagle, Sand and Oak Islands and planning to go back someday. isn't a lot of room at the docks. We tied up at the dock on Manitou Is- The North Channel stayed there one night, no fee. land for the night. There is a recon- Launching there might be iffy but I structed 19th century fish camp We headed east on State Route 28 think I could have gotten my Mac- there and a ranger to show you across the Upper Peninsula of Gregor 26 in OK. They have long around. Another boat came into the Michigan toward Sault Ste. Marie term parking with 22 hard surface dock for the night a 38' Pearson where we crossed into Canada. pull-thru parking spaces - no time center cockpit. It was a cruise from From there, we drove east on Route limit, no fee. Unfortunately, there a girl's camp with five teen-age 17 to Spanish and launched the boat are no showers and no gas is avail- girls, a counselor and the skipper on again to join the Trailer Sailor As- able at Little Sand Bay. This is a board. The girls were well trained sociation s annual North Channel great place for kayakers; there were and looked like a precision drill cruise. After everyone had his or groups arriving and leaving all the team when they docked and tied up. her boats in the water, we enjoyed a time. We attempted to leave early potluck dinner at the marina Satur- There are occasional bear encoun- in the morning but the wind was so (Continued on page 15)
Clipper Snips Page 14 Spring 2004
Sailing the Great Lakes ...
(Continued from page 14) night in CPC day evening. In the morning, John and then went Travis, the cruise leader, had a skip- to Killarney pers meeting in the marina building. for provisions It was raining, and it continued to in the morn- rain most of the day. Along about ing. mid afternoon, everyone left for On leaving Hotham Island - everyone except Killarney just us. We had enough rain in the before noon, it Apostles and didn t need more. started to rain Trojan and Zephr at Croker Island Monday s weather was better so we what s new! berry Island light and took off at top set sail for Croker Island about 9 The rain got pretty serious and con- speed heading for the bridge. We o clock and had a good sail all the tinued for two or three hours, all the followed suit a while later, but de- way. That afternoon, after picking way up Collins Inlet to Mill Lake. cided we couldn t make the 11 blueberries, we had our usual We cruised to the southern end of o clock bridge so we slowed down. dinghy raft-up cocktail party . We the lake and about fifteen of us an- stayed at Croker another day, ex- chored there for the night. We The bridge didn t open at 11! Is the plored the island and picked more stayed at that anchorage the next world coming to an end? We were blue berries. To use all those ber- day and explored the area by din- absolutely stunned. We proceeded ries, we had a Blueberry Pancake ghy. That place was a gold mine toward the bridge puzzled and Supper on a big flat rock nearby - for blueberries and some of us perplexed. It opened at 1125 but all 40 of us. It was a huge success. (especially John Bricker) made the only part way. The boats waiting most of it. there didn t go charging into the From there, we sailed to Spider Bay gap right away; seems like they Marina in Little Current and spent The weather turned for the better as were waiting for it to open the rest the night. Next morning, we made we left Mill Lake and returned to of the way. It didn t, so they even- the 10 o clock bridge and had light Killarney for Fish and Chips, which tually went through. That delay air until we got to Lansdown Chan- we had missed two days before. gave us time to get there and we got nel where it picked up. We had a We motored to Heywood Island and through before it closed. Nine of good sail, over 6 kts on a run, all anchored there much to the dis- our boats didn t make it; two waited the way to Covered Portage Cove. pleasure of the skipper of Sleeping until 5 PM and the others went to We had a good race with Don Tiger who thought he owned all the Beaver Bay for the night. Chanti- Ziliox in Sneaky II. The next day, water within range of his anchor cleer was one of the boats that came I counted 30 sail boats (mostly T/ rode. Dinghy Bingo was canceled through when we did. We saw SA) and only three powerboats in for rain. Frances Langford shopping in that anchorage. We spent another Next day we Turner s later. headed for Little We had breakfast in the English Current. There Pantry Tea Room with the Travis were about 15 clan: Dick and Char, and John and boats in an im- Coleen. Casper stayed on the boat. pressive looking The bridge opened on schedule at 9 fleet. We had a o clock and let the rest of our boats good race with through. We left Spider Bay about Rod and Ondine 10 o clock with light easterly Brandon in Sea winds. Jan and I deviated from the Quell but we scheduled itinerary just to make our never could catch annual appearance at Gore Bay. them. They Next morning, we headed north to dropped their rejoin the group in the bay in South sails at the Straw- At Anchor in Covered Portage Cove, North Channel (Continued on page 16)
Clipper Snips Page 15 Spring 2004
Sailing the Great Lakes ...
(Continued from page 15) across the street from Bill s has sient slips available at Wolverine Benjamin Island. We played great yellow pike, but the greasiest Marina in downtown Erie. It is dinghy bingo with about 15 din- undercooked fries on the planet.] right behind the Bicentennial Tower ghies rafted together. at Dobbins Landing. It is hard to From there we sailed eastward and find because it is adjacent to the We left the anchorage before 8 the stayed overnight at the Geneva Presque Isle Yacht Club. You enter next morning, chasing Xanadu State Park Marina. This is an ex- the yacht club channel and then turn (Gary and Karen Breault) and Com- cellent facility with a small general left, go to the end and turn right. promis (Robert Pacquette). We store, snack bar, showers and a They have room for a dozen or so were wing and wing making 4.6 launch ramp. It s a good walk to boats. Try 42-08.12N, 80-05.38W kts. After Boyd Island light, we town along the lakeshore but it s a in your GPS. were reaching at 5 to 6 kts heading long walk if you follow the roads. for Little Detroit and Spanish to We found a nice restaurant - Mary s The Erie Maritime Museum and the pull out. Kitchen - good food and quite rea- US Brig Niagara are located about sonable. two blocks east of Wolverine Ma- We had dinner in town with Mike rina. This was the ship that Com- and Diana Nelson, Robert Pac- After breakfast at the snack bar, we modore Perry was on during the quette, Gary and Karen Breault, left Geneva Marina and continued battle of Lake Erie in the war of Wayne and Debbie Bell, and Alan east. Thunderstorms threatened all 1812. That s an interesting story. and Justin Egenreither. Next morn- day and the winds weren t very Perry s own ship, the Lawrence, ing, we headed west on 17 toward good so we motored a lot. We was wiped out so he transferred his the Soo then on to I-75. We were passed Ashtabula and sailed on to flag to the Niagara and sailed right heading toward eastern Lake Erie to Conneaut. We couldn t raise any- between two British vessels, blast- link up with some friends from the one on the radio for a long time but ing away on both sides. What sur- Dayton Power Squadron. someone eventually answered and prised me was that Perry was only said he d go over to the Conneaut Eastern Lake Erie 28 at the time. Perry s fleet was Boat Club and ask him or her to built across from Erie at Presque There were five boats in the Dayton turn his or her radio on. They did- Isle. group; Haven, Pegasus, Persis- n t have much room, but we all got tence, Stollish and us, Trojan. We in somehow two to a slip, rafted Eating was not a problem here. We launched at Grand River Marine at off other boats, etc. This is a nice found that we could eat in the hos- Fairport Harbor - about 25 miles facility with a bar, showers, gas pital cafeteria, which is about two east of Cleveland. Stayed overnight dock and an Italian restaurant, Bis- or three blocks away. We tried it in their sailboat harbor across the cotti s, within walking distance. for breakfast - very convenient. river. Don t miss Pickle Bill s for There are two or three restaurants in After a rain delay in the morning, lunch or dinner. [Ed. The place the Dobbins Landing area for lunch we all headed and dinner. out into the lake bound for We rented a car and drove to Fair- Erie, Pa. The port Harbor to move our tow vehi- air was light cles and trailers to Erie in prepara- but we man- tion for pulling out. We decided to aged to make hang around for another day and 4.5 kts on a sailed out to Presque Isle State Park reach. We got Marina. This is a large marina with to the Presque a gas dock and showers and room in Isle light a lit- Marina Bay to anchor out if you tle after 4 and want to. Three of the boats left the entered cruise at this point and went to Presque Isle Lampe Marina to pull out the fol- Bay about 5. lowing morning. There are tran- US Brig Niagara and the Erie Maritime Museum (Continued on page 17)
Clipper Snips Page 16 Spring 2004
Sailing the Great Lakes
Barcelona Light, which is on the dock. The Barcelona Harbor House hill right above the marina, is was closed on Tuesday so we ate at unique in that it was the first light- Jack s across the street. The food house fueled by natural gas. wasn t as good but we had live entertainment! After some morning rain and a walk into town, we finally headed The wind wasn t at all cooperative out at 2 o clock for Dunkirk. We so we motor-sailed back to Erie. got there after 6 and there was no We went straight to Lampe Marina one at Chadwick Bay Marina to where the cars were parked. Then answer the radio. The office was we found out that they don t have Barcelona (NY) Light locked so we tied up at the gas dock any transient slips period. We and waited until morning to get a had to go back to Wolverine and slip. It is a nice big marina with hike two miles to Lampe to get the (Continued from page 16) floating docks but it was filthy. cars. Bummer. We spent the eve- Dead grass choked the marina with ning sightseeing around Presque The two remaining boats, Trojan beer cans, plastic cups, pop bottles, Isle - Perry s Monument, etc. and Stollish, proceded eastward cigarette butts, food wrappers and toward Barcelona, New York. The After spending the morning in the dead fish floating on top. I guess wind was right off the nose and we Erie Library (at the Museum) we the walleye fishermen like it that motored quite a bit necessitating a ate lunch and went to the MillCreek way. One bright spot Demetri s fuel stop at Northeast Marina. We Mall in Erie. While we were there, Greek Restaurant was close by. couldn t contact the Barcelona Ma- the lights flickered and then went rina on the radio and once we got We met Pam s parents for lunch the out. It was shortly after 4 on Au- close, we didn t like the looks of next day. (Pam is the first mate on gust 14th and lights were going out their docks. After running aground, Stollish.) It rained off and on all all over the northeast. We started we made it over to the city docks day. At this point, we decided we this adventure after a power outage and stayed there for the night. No couldn t make it to Buffalo in the at home in early July and it seems gas and no showers but it was inex- time we had left so we headed west only fitting that we concluded our pensive. Good restaurant Barce- toward Barcelona in the morning. summer s cruise with another lona Harbor House just a short power outage. We pulled out the It was overcast, but we had a good walk away. The Barcelona Cafe, next morning and drove back to sail in light air - 3, 4 and 5 knots on right behind the grocery, was good Dayton. a run. We made it to Barcelona by for breakfast. You can fill up your 2 o clock and went right to the city gas can at the grocery, too. The Eleventh Annual 1000 Islands Cruise Bob Borden
The Eleventh Annual 1000 Islands and trailers. The charge per day for marina. Do not go to the admini- Cruise is planned to begin Saturday parking seems to change year by stration building because they get June 19, 2004 and end Saturday year. Last year there was no charge things really messed up. June 26, 2004. for parking the vehicle and trailer Most likely someone will already but other years it has been $5 per We will meet at Canoe Point State be at Wellesley or Canoe Point so day. When arriving at Wellesley Park, Saturday afternoon on the just call for Trailer/Sailors on Island State Park just pay the DAY 19th. Most of us put in at Welles- channel 16 or 72 after putting in if USE fee (about $6) at the main gate ley Island State Park marina (about you need directions to Canoe Point. (guard shack) if they charge you at 25 miles north of Watertown, NY). After launching, proceed to Canoe all and go directly to the marina. The marina has very adequate Just tell them you are going to the (Continued on page 18) dockage and parking space for cars
Clipper Snips Page 17 Spring 2004
Eleventh Annual 1000 Islands Cruise
(Continued from page 17) wooden Boat Museum where sev- We will be happy to furnish more Point state park (approximately eral old racing boats as well as information concerning the cruise, three miles). cruising boats are displayed. Other directions to get to Wellesley Is- boats are undergoing restoration. land, trailering rendezvous points Canoe Point is at: 44° 18.581 N, Cape Vincent has very nice public 76° 4.440 W. From Wellesley docks (free over night) and is a Thousand Islands Cruise follow the Canadian Middle Chan- quaint little town. Float Plan nel South Westerly to Canoe Point. The marina has good dockage and Useful charts: Canadian Chart Sunday June 20: We will sail (by- this year they will have SHOW- 2064 will cover from Kingston to passing Kingston, On) to Collins ERS. Dockage, if I remember cor- Deseronto. I purchased mine from Bay if the weather permits. We rectly is $10.00 per night. www.charts.gc.ca NOAA 14768, will stay at Collins Bay Marina NOAA 14767, NOAA 14766. Sunday night. This year we plan to have a Skip- These cover the area we normally pers meeting every morning around Monday June 21: We will sail cruise and are available from any 9:00 AM to let everyone know south westerly through the Bay of chart supplier. what the destination is for the day Quinte to Picton at the end of the and review any required charts. Check List: Food, clothing for Adolphus Reach and stay the warm as well as cooler and foul night at Picton. We will try to Since we will be staying in marinas weather, gas for the outboard, we stay at Tip of the Bay , which is more this year than we have in pre- do some motoring. Safety equip- close to down town for on shore vious years, you should plan to pay ment Life jackets, fire extinguish- exploring. up to $1.00 Canadian, per foot of ers, flares, anchor and rode, VHF boat length for dockage. Tuesday June 22: We will sail radio, Camera, Drivers License North up Long Reach to Dese- We may stay on some of the 21 and /or voters registration for iden- ronto and stay the night at Dese- islands in the Canadian St. Law- tification at customs, boat registra- ronto Centennial Park or at Dese- rence Islands National Park. tion. Also, a toolbox with every ronto Marina, depending on the Twenty Islands have dockage, one thing needed to fix anything. amount of dockage available. has moorings only and three have If you will have a relative, nephew, moorings in addition to dockage. Wednesday June 23: We will sail niece, grandson, grand daughter or Each of the Islands has toilet facili- back down Long Reach, north other minor that you are not the ties and all but one have water. All easterly through the Bay of custodian of, please have their cus- but one has picnic facilities and Quinte to Bath. We will stay the todian sign a power of attorney al- most have shelters for group activi- night at Bath at Loyalist Cove lowing you to seek medical assis- ties in inclement weather. New Marina. We stayed there last year tance for them if necessary. York also maintains several Island and they have good facilities. parks, which are quite acceptable If any of the above interests you Thursday June 24: We have left for an evening's stay. You can plan enough to join us in the 1000 Is- the destination for Thursday on paying $9 US or $14 Canadian lands please contact: open. We may sail across the to stay overnight at the Canadian Bob Borden RR 7 Box 303, Wells- lake to Cape Vincent or we may Islands. boro, Pa 16901 Phone 570-724- sail back into the Islands and stay There is so much to see and do in 5601 e-mail [email protected] overnight on one of the islands. the 1000 Islands area and s-o-o-o or, Friday June 25: We will most much sailing to do that it is impos- Carroll Seibert 2880 Spencer Road, likely sail from where ever we sible to do it all. We try each year Mansfied, Pa. 16933 Phone 570- stay Thursday night back to Ca- to keep a balance between sailing 662-3799 e-mail [email protected] noe Point for the final night fes- and landlubber sightseeing. This or tivities. year we plan to see three new loca- tions, Collins Bay, Picton and De- Mike Morris 1381 Hamilton Road Saturday June 26: Back to seronto. I ve been as far as Picton London, ON Canada N5W 5W8 Wellesley Island State park, load and gives it two thumbs up. Clay- 519-451-7309 e-mail sailor- up the boats and head for home ton, New York has a very nice [email protected].
Clipper Snips Page 18 Spring 2004
Install a Fishfinder In Your Sailboat Joe Orinko
Sue & I have a plan for 'Unicorn' The installation manual mentioned plugging up the space between the summers. "Good wind, we sail. No the possibility of mounting the cardboard and the hull. I gave this wind, we fish. Bad wind, we do depth transducer to the inside of the a couple days to firm up. yard-work." hull. The Humminbird techs said I next mixed up about 4 ounces of "just epoxy it to the inside of the Although an old fisherman once epoxy, and gently poured it into the hull". told me that the best fish-finder was cardboard/caulking dam. The ep- made by Bausch & Lomb (use the So a couple seasons ago, I decided oxy found it's true level. I used a binoculars to see where everyone to install the existing transom nail to move a few bubbles to the else is catching 'em), we thought mount transducer to the inside of outer edge. that we were Two days later missing out fish- I trimmed the ing where there cardboard and was no fish. caulking, leav- We rationalized ing a little that a depth pedestal of sounder would solid epoxy also be useful with a level with our Oday23 top. I mixed [board down (5') about 4 drops or board up of epoxy mix, (30")]. The costs added it to the of (single func- center of the tion) depth sound- flat spot, and ers a few years smushed the ago were over transducer into $200, and re- the fresh ep- quired installation oxy with a of a through-hull little twist (to transducer. avoid bub- bles). I taped While in Dick's it in place Sporting Goods, I Install a transom mount transducer to shoot through the hull. while it set. found a closeout (see picture) ($89) on a basic Humminbird fish finder, which the hull, just forward of the cast I ran the transducer cable (and claimed to reveal depth, speed, wa- iron stub keel, and to the port side power cable) back to the lazarette ter temp, and (just possibly) where (I already had a paddle-wheel knot- of our Oday23. I mounted the dis- the fish were. The package in- meter mounted on the starboard play unit on a block of 2 x 6 and cluded a transom mounted trans- side). stowed it in the lazarette. When ducer, and a second paddlewheel fishing, we bring it out of the laza- To get the unit to point straight device. Both were to be installed rette and set it on the cockpit seats. down I formed a wide collar out of on the transom, just underwater. cereal box cardboard, and cut the Here in Lake Erie, we haven't had Our Oday23 has a transom, but bottom edge at a slant to approxi- any trouble reading the depth or only a very small flat triangular mate the curved plane of the hull. I finding the fish. Haven't had a big area (directly in front of the rudder) sanded off the inside hull area to improvement in getting the fish is actually under water. The Hum- get good fiberglass showing. I then into the sailboat, but that's another minbird had through hull transduc- set the collar in place on the inside topic (and we're still doing research ers available, but at over $50. of the hull and applied a bead of on that one). silicon caulking to the outside edge,
Clipper Snips Page 19 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ... David & Joyce Craigie
Where do you sail in Oklahoma? sas. Most of the journey is at best a Their trip began on Robert S. Kerr I am asked when we travel with safe and economical way to get Lake in Sallisaw and continued Incipient our Hunter 26. In re- somewhere else. down the Mississippi and beyond. sponse to that question I have to But this ho hum description is not After the meeting a few of us were brag a little and let whoever I am true of the entire canal. There is at standing around chatting and I men- chatting with know that Oklahoma least one beautiful area of interest tioned that I had done a section of has many man made lakes. In fact, that my first mate Joyce and I have the canal several years earlier. In- we have 11,611 miles of shoreline, enjoyed twice now. That area is the terest peaked and thoughts of devel- and that is more then all other states section of the canal that starts in oping a club cruise emerged. I left except Minnesota. Another little- Sallisaw, Oklahoma, on Robert S. them with the thought that I would known fact about land-locked be gone for the summer, sail- Oklahoma is that we also have ing in the North Channel and international ocean traffic and a This magic carpet to the inter- a few other spots in between. Coast Guard Station. If it has national world is called the Hopefully we would be home less than nine feet of draft, is in early September, a great not more then 52 feet high and McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River time to do a canal trip in can fit into a 100 by 600 lock, Navigational System. Oklahoma. I said, Give me a it can come to Oklahoma by date and I will be there. water. Doesn t sound like the dust Kerr Lake and ends at Russellville, bowl description of Oklahoma that Word finally came that a date of Arkansas, on Dardanelle Lake. It is John Steinbeck portrays in his book Sept 22, the first day of fall, was a beautiful 130 - mile stretch of the The Grapes of Wrath, does it? set. This was late enough in the sea- river that meanders through the son to escape the tormenting sum- This magic carpet to the interna- rolling hills of Eastern Oklahoma mer heat that Oklahoma has to of- tional world is called the and continues into the Arkansas fer, yet early enough in the fall that McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Ozark National Forrest and the evenings had only a crisp chill. Navigational System. Opened in the Ouachita (Wash-a-taw) National It was the kind of weather that early 70 s, the benefits of this sys- Mountain range. It is a wonderfully made it nice to snuggle together tem have proven to far exceed ini- historic and scenic trip, peppered under the quilt. Sadly, though, the tial projections. It is a Mecca for with protected anchorages and flotilla of several trailerable boats commercial and recreational activi- quaint towns begging for foot traf- had been reduced to just two, In- ties alike. The peripheral benefits of fic. And so the story begins. cipient and a Catalina 22, Whimsy. flood control and electric genera- In the spring of 2003, a local sailor But, hey, maybe they don t know tion are overwhelming. was invited to speak at our monthly what they re missing? A brief meet- The head of navigation is located at Thunderbird Sailing Club ing was held at our home when the Catoosa, a little east of Tulsa, Okla- (www.thunderbirdsailingclub.org) trip was just a week away. Our homa. From there it winds 445 meeting in Norman, Oklahoma. He friends Chad and Pat on Whimsy miles downstream, through seven- and his first mate had extensively were roaring to go. Well, maybe teen locks and a drop of 420 feet. It cruised the U.S. Coastal waters. Chad was. Pat had some reserva- ends where only the tions about the most savvy of small trip but said she sail boaters will dare was up to the to venture: the free- challenge. The flowing Mississippi plan was to meet River. For the most at Applegate part, the Navigational Cove Park on System is a canal - a Kerr Lake on motor trip through the Monday, Septem- farmlands of eastern ber 22. From Oklahoma and Arkan- there we would
Clipper Snips Page 20 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ... spend the next seven days on the before the trip seeking information good on the BBQ! We went over water in route to Russellville Ma- about ramps and storage facilities. the float plan for the next week s rina on Lake Dardanelle. Their re- travel and sponse was before we SUNDAY: Joyce & I arrived on always un- knew it, it Sunday, a day earlier than Whimsy. hurried and was time Maybe it s because I am getting old informa- to retire. and I travel a little slower, maybe it tive, No just takes me longer to set up the TUES- problem, boat. Maybe I just enjoy trailering DAY: just come and sailing so much that I wanted Our trip on and we to extend the cruise by another day. down- will take I don t know. At any rate, we got stream care of there and finished setting up by late will have you. Even afternoon and just as we were pre- us passing after our paring to launch, thunderheads through arrival and loomed overhead. We holed up in- four locks. explaining side the boat to wait it out and by This that we the time the storm was over, it was Whimsy motoring to Monday s anchorage morning would not near dark - too late to launch and we will be taking a slip, the laid-back atti- go to an anchorage. So we spent the transit the first of these: Robert S. tude held. night in the parking lot on the boat. Kerr Lock #15 at Mile Marker 336. We relaxed by walking, looking at Launching was uneventful and with Locks on this system are hailed on the stars in the now clear sky and several hours to kill before Whimsy Ch 16 and the lockmaster will di- tried to make a few calls on the cell arrived we raised our sails and had rect you to go to Ch 14. The re- phone, but the reception was horri- a morning sail. While we were out sponse was immediate and ended ble. We soon tired and went to bed. we scouted the best anchorage for with Yes Sir, Captain from the Tomorrow we launch. the night. Winds were predicted out lockmaster. Did I mention that of the North and we found a gem of there are no charges to use this ca- MONDAY: There are two ramps a spot about three miles from the nal system? Our tax dollars at available at Applegate Cove Park. ramp. We returned to wait for work! This is a Corps of Engineers Park: a Chad and Pat and anchored in the full-service park with ramps, show- Joyce and I have passed through protected basin of the marina. ers and an RV dump station. The many locks on several canals. For ramp at the day use area is better Whimsy arrived at 12:30 p.m. and Chad and Pat, however, this was than the ramp in the park, and there an hour later she was in the water their first. We had gone over what I is no charge. Located beside a and anchored next to Incipient. considered the best way to go travel lift where large boats are Being Trailer/Sailors and this being through a lock with floating bol- hauled, the ramp is used to launch a one - way trip on the canal, we lards. It must have worked, because all sizes of craft. I never could find thought it best to relocate Chad s the event went without a hitch. the end of the ramp by probing with vehicle downstream at Russellville. Twenty minutes after we entered a boat hook. That way we would have a way the lock we were exiting it, 46 feet back without having to rent a car or lower. We headed out on a SE Parking is limited at this ramp, so I hitchhike a ride. So we made the course with the wind coming from secured parking at Applegate Cove 240-mile round trip and were back the SE. The wind on the nose - that Marina for $2/day in an area across to Applegate by 6:30 p.m. We figures. I have found that wind on the street from the owner s resi- pulled anchor and motored the canal trips will be either one way or dence. The marina owners are Alon three miles to our selected anchor- the other: on your nose or on your & Rhoda (918 775 4522) and they age just as the sun was starting to tail. We did have a slight current in are as affable a couple as one set behind us, giving us a salute to our favor, though. would ever want to meet. I had the end of a good day. Dinner was made a few phone calls to them Our first stop was for lunch and a on Incipient and, boy, steak tastes
Clipper Snips Page 21 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ...
petite for a fine Mexican dinner. This gave the first mates a break away from the galley and was a treat that we all enjoyed. We did not enjoy the marina that evening, however. They don t name it Goose Harbor for nothing. There were dozens of geese honking all night, along with the roar of cars and trucks that passed over the Hwy 64 Bridge just a hundred yards away. Then throw in a few dozen trains that passed close by with their whistles blaring - makes people wonder why they come to a marina in the first place. Next time we will use the marina facilities during the day and then continue on Incipient transiting Lock #15, tied to a floating bollard downstream to one of the many quiet anchorages that are available. swim in Cache Creek at MM 324.5 ing on the wrong side of the river. with a great view of the Sans Bois The day was getting too late for any With no pump out facilities avail- Mountains. The water was inviting, more exploring, so we headed for able along this stretch of the river, the anchoring easy. This is an ex- our anchorage at MM 321.8 and Whimsy took advantage of a port- ample of what was to come in the settled in for the night. Maybe next able toilet on the premises and got next several days. Our first trip time we will get to see the Mounds. some ice from the marina. Incipi- down the Arkansas River several Dinner was calling my name and ent has a larger head capacity so we years ago only took half the time we enjoyed dining onboard were good there and we have a pro- that this trip will take. The boaters Whimsy that night. pane refrigerator, so no need for we were with that time just seemed ice. We both took on some fresh WEDNESDAY: The weather has to be in an awful hurry. I said then, water. An open air shower was been glorious and the forecast looks that if we were ever to return we available on the marina dock of promising. I hope Mother Nature would stop and enjoy more of what which Chad and Pat took advan- got the bad stuff out of her system this scenic trip has to offer. tage . I ll wait for an opportunity to on our first night and that was all take a bath off the stern. You could probably fill a library there was to offer. Today we will with all the history that abounds in pass through our second lock, W.D. THURSDAY: Today is one of our this part of the country. Native Mayo Lock #14 MM 319. longer stretches: 27.5 miles. Even American and Civil War tales are so, we still held to our usual morn- The passage was uneventful as we numerous and many of these events ing schedule of departing about 9 were old hands at this now. Lunch are listed in the cruising guide that a.m. and stopping for a lunch break was on the Poteau River, MM 309, we are using. Some landmarks are around noon. We encountered our and our evening would be spent at easy to spot as you travel along the first barge traffic today, and it was Goose Harbor Marina in Van Bu- river; others are not so obvious. a casual one-toot passing (port to ren, Arkansas. Van Buren was one Our first planned adventure was to port) - no radio communications of two planned visits to towns visit a Native American site called were needed. Shortly after that we along the river that overflow with the Spiro Mounds near MM 321 entered our third lock, James W. Civil War history and have historic dating back to 850. This is an im- Trimble Lock #13. The lock pas- downtown areas worthy of explor- portant archaeological site, and as sages are going very smoothly, and ing. We had a good afternoon off much as we would have liked to see the lockmasters have been genu- the boat and worked up a good ap- them, I goofed and had us explor- inely courteous and prompt to an-
Clipper Snips Page 22 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ... swer our radio calls. charts that I am using on this trip are official Corps of Engi- Our planned lunch stop was at Va- neers charts from 1990 and they che Grassy Creek, a little off the do not have latitude and longi- waterway and up an old creek at tude markings. So dead reckon- MM 288. With so many anchorages ing skills need to be used until along the river, it is difficult to they come out with a more mod- choose one. There are literally hun- ern version. dreds of sandy beaches that beckon you to stop, and they are all saying, FRIDAY: With just 14 miles Please stop and take a dip here! on the cruise plan today, it was Generally speaking, any kind of decided to do a little dinghy ex- anchor will work well in this soft ploration up Mulberry Creek mud and sand bottom. Because the this morning. We saw blue her- water is not clear, the weed growth ons, kingfishers, osprey, a possi- is minimal and not a problem. ble kite and many others. It is said that in past years this has Continuing downstream - motoring Antebellum house in Ozark been a favorite spot for bear of course, as the wind has been per- hunts, deer drives and fox hunting. sistently on our nose - we turned in even get there in anything more Also, according to the cruising at Mulberry Creek MM 272 and then a skiff. But there is a fabulous guide, the fishing is reported to be went about a mile upstream. facility on the opposite side of the awesome here, but you couldn t Again, I miscalculated with my river named Aux Arc State Park. prove any of that by me. Only a dead reckoning navigation and Aux Arc means Great Bend , and suicidal fish would dare to entangle came in on the wrong side of an this is the northernmost point in itself on one of my hooks. That s island. Although I ended up where I Arkansas for the Arkansas River. why I carry lots of canned tuna. had planned, it involved passing Aux Arc State Park offers all the through some pretty skinny waters. By 10:30 a.m., we were underway amenities of a full service park: I did not notice my navigational and heading for our destination: showers, RV dump, water, good error until later that evening when I Ozark, Arkansas. At MM 258 we walking areas and, for the boater, was exploring by dinghy. I found passed under the Hwy. 23 bridge, courtesy docks that a shallow draft that I had not gone far enough which joins Ozark with the rest of boat can use. Apparently there is no downstream past the island that we the world to the south. When the charge for boating into this facility, had selected to anchor behind. The bridge was built in 1928, it was just if you drive in. We took advan- classified tage of these amenities during our as one of brief stay at Aux Arc. the most After tying up to the courtesy beautiful docks, we made preparations to bridge dinghy across the river to Ozark. structures The plan was that I would tow in the na- Chad and Pat in their dinghy as tion. It still they were motorless and it was a stands as a good mile across the river. Our first testament stop would be at a convenience to that to- store for gas, then on to the big city day. for a walking tour. We had already There are been informed by local knowledge no marinas (that is the best kind, you know) of in Ozark. the best spot to eat. The Riverside In fact, BBQ was reported to be the best in you can t town and we had to give it a try. Ozark bridge viewed from the deck of Incipient
Clipper Snips Page 23 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ...
Judging by the size of the fellow such a large object. I wondered if River. Ah, to see this in a few that was giving us this information, they ever saw us. weeks when the fall colors are at I took it to be gospel. their peak! Gazing into the distance The rest of the evening was won- ahead, I wonder, Where will the To get to the Ozark town docks, derful, but it was not over yet. With next turn take me? Deceivingly you have to go under a RR bridge no unsettled weather in the forecast, masked by a wall of mountains, that the chart says has eight feet of I awoke after midnight to claps of only the chart gives a hint of which clearance. It looked more like five thunder. Now, these are wonderful way the river turns. Not until you to me. Then you have to go around docks, made of solid concrete with reach the next bend will your a low pipeline that crosses the river. rings to tie your boat to that would course become truly apparent. But it s worth all the effort to be hold you in a tornado. But they are Imagine the terror of the 1900 s able to walk through this quaint and completely exposed to the wind and river captain as he tried to navigate historic town. One can just imagine the history that has taken place One needs to remember the rules of the road here. During the Civil War, Ozark lost all but three of its old houses when dealing with barges or other similarly re- when they were burned to the stricted vessels: they have the indisputable ground. There is, however, one sur- viving home right on the river s right of way, period!! edge - a pretty yellow home just to the east of the bridge that has the waves. So, knowing that I would the free flowing Arkansas River in antebellum look that Jimmy Buffet not sleep anyway, I got up and re- his flat bottom vessel. Today, this would die for. It appeared to be pri- tied the lines on our boat and modern canal tames all the terrors vately owned, so it is not likely that Whimsy. Chad and Pat also got up, of the past, making this a very a walk through would be permitted. and although I assured Pat that we pleasant and comfortable journey. But it did make for a great picture had it under control, she insisted on with the Ozark Bridge in the back- joining us. Joyce slept. As it turned Two hours into our trip today, we ground. out it must have been a few rogue were finally blessed with a favor- claps of thunder accompanied by a able wind. Up go the sails to catch The BBQ was awesome and we few weak puffs of wind and soon some of the modest north winds as returned to the boats with swollen we were all back in bed. Later that we continue on our easterly course. bellies and desserts in doggie bags. night I noticed a clear sky and bril- The sailing gets better as the miles But the return trip across the river liant stars. Go figure. click away and the winds appear to was not without incident. I was change from the north to the west. towing Chad and Pat when I hit SATURDAY: The day started a We sailed wing and wing at about 4 something with my motor and little roughly for Incipient. The knots as we wound our way along broke the shear pin. I carry extras, water level dropped during the the river that was now turning into but the old one refused to come out. night as it does sometimes in be- a lake. Having compass swings of So I said that I would row back, fix tween locks and we were left a little 45 degrees or more, it seemed the motor and return. On our way aground. It took some wiggling strange to always have the wind across the river, Joyce says to me, back and forth, but we were finally directly on our stern. Is that barge moving? I turned to free and heading for our last lock, the left and indeed there was a tow Ozark-Jeta Taylor Lock #12. Again At noon, we sailed into our lunch pushing nine barges and although the passage was flawless, but by spot at a small unnamed cut off at we were out of harm s way, Chad now we were seasoned canal travel- MM 244. We love to sail, but and Pat were not. I yelled at Chad ers and this was just routine stuff. there has to be time in the schedule to get his attention and he promptly The wind is predicted to be out of to smell the roses and take a swim retreated to the far shore. The barge the north today, so perhaps we will too. This gave Chad a chance to was moving very slowly and was get to raise some sails at last. unfurl and raise his new mainsail not making a sound. Although the that was on its maiden voyage. And We were now on Lake Dardanelle evening light was fading, I found it a beauty she was, too. I remember and going through some of the pret- spooky that I could miss seeing the time when Incipient's sails had tiest areas on all of the Arkansas
Clipper Snips Page 24 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River ... that crisp and crinkle sound, a thought was going to be a park MM 225, we had to pause a mo- sound similar to when my first turned out to be only a ramp and a ment and tuck a reef in the main- mate is eating popcorn and I have rustic parking area. The only avail- sail. Then a little further on and we to turn up the TV volume. The able anchoring was in the channel were furling the jib a little. At MM shape, the feel, the beautiful looks, and true to most good fishing areas, 221, we were running wing and and the crispy edge - they all re- it was a beehive of activity Sunday wing and were in the main part of mind me of my (sail's) younger morning. But the upside was that the lake heading due south. The days. I gotta get some new sails. we had a good final night at anchor winds were very strong now out of with Whimsy. Tomorrow we will the NW and we doused the reefed After lunch we sailed out of the reach the main body of Dardanelle mainsail and continued with the jib anchorage and headed east another Lake and the winds are forecast out alone. This was much more com- eight miles to Horsehead Park, our of the west, northwest. We expect fortable and we pushed along at anchorage for the night. It was a to sail the rest of the way. hull speed as the rollers continued glorious sail that swung from wing to build behind us. and wing to a port beam reach, SUNDAY: Hallelujah!! The morn- reaching hull speeds of over 6 ing broke with modest west winds By the time we reached MM 214, knots. and at 9 a.m., we hoisted full sails, we were only using a hankie-sized weighed anchor, and made an about jib and still surfing downwind at Along the way we had an interest- face to feel the wind on our stern. hull speed. Whimsy was doing an ing encounter with a barge. But Not too fast at first, but as we extraordinary job keeping up with because we had previously dis- neared the end of the channel and us, and I wondered when the wind cussed the inevitability of barge slipped under the Hwy. 109 bridge would overpower his hanked-on encounters, our passings were inter- it was hull speed and beyond. By 150 jib. I no sooner thought about esting and safe. One needs to re- member the rules of the road when For those interested in the cost of a trip like this, here is a rundown on what dealing with barges or other simi- we spent. Not included in these figures are the costs of provisioning the larly restricted vessels: they have boat. Hey, you would have to eat and drink at home anyway! the indisputable right of way, pe- riod!! On encountering the barge Truck fuel to go 705 miles (240 was the extra round $85.00 heading upstream, I hailed the Cap- trip to ferry Chad s truck to Russellville) tain on Ch 16. When he responded, I let him know that we do see him, Boat fuel (5 gallons for the boat, 1 gallon dinghy) $9.00 that I would like to pass him on two Dockage (three nights) $30.00 whistles, and that I would be hug- ging the red markers. The reason Restaurants (two times) $35.00 for passing starboard to starboard was so that we would be on his Souvenirs $50.00 windward side and would not lose the wind in our sails. His response Total $208.00 was, Very good, Captain, and thank you from the Miss Dixie. Charts, Books and Web Resources: The passing went as planned and Corps of Engineers charts for the McClellen-Kerr Navigational System the Miss Dixie gave a courtesy toot. www.uscg.mil/d8/grplmr/Web Links/River Charts/Arkansas River.htm Horsehead Park anchorage came up McClellan-Kerr Navigation - quickly at MM 235.5 and we turned www.swl.usace.army.mil/navigation/mckarns.html to port into the channel. This was our most disappointing anchorage, Arkansas River Cruise Guide by Bruce and Joyce Johnson but it was too late to continue on www.bluewaterweb.com/cruisingguides/prodpages/50801.htm and we made the best of what we Applegate Marina - www.applegatemarina.com had. Silt had reduced the amount of Ozark, Arkansas - www.ozarkarkansas.com anchoring possibilities and what I Russellville Marina - www.russellvillemarina.com
Clipper Snips Page 25 Spring 2004
Gunkholing Along the Arkansas River
fore our trip, making arrangements main lake. The other is a triple for our arrival, both for Chad s ramp in a protected basin by the truck storage and for reservations to visitor s center. Both are similar in spend the night at their marina. slope and length. Chad chose to use the single ramp, and this worked Russellville Marina is located in out well with no wind. He was soon Russellville State Park. They offer loaded and while Joyce stayed with the usual amenities such as tran- our boat, I went with Chad and Pat sient slips, gas, ice, fuel, pump out back to Applegate Cove to retrieve and ice cream, all for an extremely my tow vehicle. reasonable price. Showers are Dining on Musgoes on Incipient available in the State Park, as are By late afternoon, I was back with walking trails, RV dump station Joyce, and we spent another night this when I saw them making a and very modern ramps. Again, in the marina. We still had time round turn into the wind and dous- there did not appear to be any enough to explore the honeysuckle ing their jib for safety sake. There charge for using the State Park fa- nature trail that I remembered so was just too much wind for such a cilities. well from our last visit here. We large jib on a Catalina 22. The didn t spot any exotic wildlife, but winds at this point were very strong We had a final meal of 'Musgoes' just the chance to stretch our legs and were taxing our ability to carry on Incipient. 'Musgoes' are food after the long trip was refreshing. even minimal sails. things that are left over from the Later that evening we wandered trip, and you either eat them now or So with bare pole and a light push down to the boat basin and sat on they musgo into the dumpster. A from the motor we continued on for the bench stargazing and looking at toast was offered to the end of a the last mile to Russellville Marina Mars. The next morning we pulled good trip and the friendship that (479-967-1543). We cautiously en- out and went home. comes from sailing together. The tered the buoyed entrance into the weather for this trip has been great, Dave Craigie protected harbor and went to our and the sailing on the last two days assigned slips. Earlier that day, I made up for the motoring we had to called ahead on the cell phone and do. spoke to one of the marina owners, Brandy Hertz, who along with her MONDAY: There are two ramps husband Ted have owned this well- located in the park, and both are run marina for about 10 years. I had good choices. One is a single ramp spoken to Brandy several times be- in the State Park that is open to the From the T/SA Web Discussion List ... John Coppedge, Board Moderator
The following is a synopsis of the will perform anywhere near as money Macgregor s provide the threads on the TRAILSAIL message well as most other sailboats. most cabin space, board that are, I think, of interest to We have had our X since 95 and George LavoieIf: One of the most members. its seaworthiness has so far not first things I did with my Macgre- Macgregor Power Sailors been a concern in Lake Erie or the gor was take in into very heavy Ocean - but I wouldn t sail it to seas on the coast of Maine; I had John Coppedge: The X and M Europe on a bet. waves come right across the cock- are both designed to go 15+ knots pit. The boat handled very well under power, which means sailing Richard LeSage: You must be and I ve had much heavier boats performance suffers. Even if the aware that a Macgregor is a sig- to compare it with. M is a better sailor (as claimed by nificant downgrade from a Com- guess who), I seriously doubt it Pac23 with its thin hull. For the (Continued on page 27)
Clipper Snips Page 26 Spring 2004
From the T/SA Web Discussion List ...
(Continued from page 26) Joyce, and no apparent damage to through a cone with filter & Michael Morris: I have been out Incipient. grounds into a thermos pitcher. in all kinds of weather on my Spanish Marina Tom Larimer: I have a single Macgregor 23 and survived. I burner butane stove, and a single used to crew on big race boats and Mike Nelson: and double burner propane stoves the last 41-foot racer I was on was The main channel leading into the on the boat. All three work great not as seaworthy as my Macgre- Spanish River has been dredged to and they were inexpensive. We gor. a depth of 6 ft. also carry an electric hotplate for Walt Murek: Mac hulls are hand A new nature trail will start at the when we're in a marina with AC. laid, solid glass. It is not designed mock Paddle Boat up to the base John Coppedge: We used to do for prolonged heavy weather but I of the windmill and then west the grounds with filter thing, but have read many accounts of own- along the high bluff for approxi- now buy the coffee bags (like tea ers caught in heavy weather mately 1.5 km before tracing a bags). The good ones are real cof- (including a 60+ mph microburst) loop and coming back to the same fee and pretty good. We also use but never heard of one being dam- spot with good views of Whale- a butane stove. We found that aged or lost. back Channel. Chinese specialty stores carry the stoves and fuel for significantly Nevaida Howe: There are very Dinghies old MacGregors made in the less money. 1960 s, which were still in good Wayne M. Bell: We have used a Howard Staley: We use a Mirro, sailing shape, and even ours was Boatex Dingy for at least 15 4-cup aluminum percolator (the built in the 70 s. MacGregors are years. We have the larger sailing old fashioned kind) on our Ken- easy to trailer and launch and are model. It is very stable. She yon pressure alcohol stove, which good in high waves. tracks great behind Bells Toil in any weather. perks in about 4 minutes. The Tow Vehicles percolator had to be ordered di- Laurence Wright: We have a rectly from the Mirro factory Robert Paquette: I tow my Edel 10-foot Portabote folding dinghy, since stores carried only the larger 540 (2,000 lbs.) with a 1997 Toy- which we towed behind an 18- size. ota Camry with a 4-cylinder 2.2- foot sailboat with no noticeable liter engine. I can launch and haul drag. The hull fold flat, to a width Rod Brandon: We have used a out on most ramps with the 16 ft. of 4 inches, and is guaranteed for propane camp stove for two years, trailer tongue extension. 10 years. It rows and motors well a Nokai portable butane for two years, and finally a dual burner Suzuki Outboard and can be dragged over rocky shores. Origo. My test showed all three Allen Egenriether: Fairly new stoves boiled 10 cups of tap water outboards that with one of the best Furling Support within 3 minutes with a total of track records for reliability but Rich & Pat Zets: We cover the variation 3 seconds. few dealers in the U.S. Suzuki end of the furled with ten foot of 6 For coffee, I cut a small X in a was also making some 4-strokes inch PVC pipe with an end cap drip coffee maker filter and push for OMC. which supports it and provides this down over the percolator post. Florida weather, bird and bug protection. This prevents small grounds in the Rick Bowman: David Craigie, Coffee and Stove Fuels coffee and makes clean up easier. while anchored near Marathon Rick Voss: I have a single burner Allen Egenriether: We use a Key in rather shallow water had Origo (slow to boil water) with a single burner Origo. We used to his anchor rode snagged by a camper sized percolator; we use 3 tie grounds into a large coffee fil- power trawler. Their vessel was tbs coffees and let it perk for 3 ter and boiling it. Last year we violently swung heeling danger- min. bought a 9-cup stainless coffee ously as the anchor held to the percolator (used with filters), bottom as the trawler tried to mo- Steven.Crane: I too have an which was a great improvement. tor away. No injuries to Dave & Origo. I pour boiling water (Continued on page 28)
Clipper Snips Page 27 Spring 2004
From the T/SA Web Discussion List
(Continued from page 27) Rick Bowman: More than a cou- belly. Troll this along the edge of Mike Nelson: I did the same ex- ple of weeks living aboard at a a sandy bottom weed bed. For periment as did Rod, and found time and the "stir crazy at night" small mouth, use the surface bait the Origo to take twice as long to begin. We are just not as comfort- mentioned, casting and jigging (no bring the water to a boil as either able and don t sleep as well live bait). For walleye, it's best to propane or butane aboard the boat as at home. troll about 2 mph along a ridge at a depth of about 25 feet or find a Rod Brandon: What kind of al- Rich & Pat Zets: The wife and I hole and use the black jig and live cohol? We use Methyl Hydrate. have spent up to 3 weeks at a time bait mentioned. Fishing Line - I This fuel is hygroscopic and any on the boat. Patricia has had back generally use 8 pound test with moisture absorption diminishes surgery, and we find no hardship very light tension. the heating characteristics rapidly. in sleeping on board. You have not lived until you see the stars at My brother is an MNR Conserva- Mike Nelson: We use "official" 2AM from Thompson Island in tion Officer and your equipment alcohol stove alcohol"--my test Lake Superior or the North Chan- can be confiscated if caught fish- was run with el primo stuff from nel or heard loons calling in the ing without a license. Typically, West Marine, and was fairly morning mist. For those of you the really brutal confiscations fresh... whose crew have their doubts, (boats, cars, etc.) are a result of Paul Ferne: According to various have THEM contact our crew. I numerous flagrant violations. sources, you are unlikely to know know that Patricia and the rest of Music in a Boat what formula alcohol you are buy- the T/S cruising 1st mates would ing. It could mean that different be more than willing to fill them Debbie Bell: JIMMY BUFFETT brands of alcohol burn at different in. is a must!! temperatures. I've had poor experi- Stephen Gilcrist My first mate Laurence Wright: I think it de- ence using the typical hardware Deborah doesn't like anything too pends on where you are. I see no store denatured alcohol in my non- windy or bouncy out there. We problem playing music while pressurized stove. day-sailed on Lake Ontario for a you're under way or in a marina, Offshore Cruising and 1st Mates decade and then overnighted a few but, while in a secluded anchor- age, I think it's best to be as quiet. Tom Larimer: Once your crew times to the Toronto islands. Now she's confident enough in my gets some experience and finds Bill Johnson: Nautical music that out that sailing beyond sight of abilities to cruise the North Chan- I think is pretty good. Is "Not To land isn't a big deal, they become nel with me for five weeks includ- Be Used For Navigation" by Ei- more confident. She now has no ing two weeks with the trailer sail- leen Quinn. She sails around and problem with it. Take it a step at a ors. There's something about the writes music about sailing time and you might be successful. social aspect of a cruise like that which makes it more appealing to Michael Morris: Eileen Quinn Rod Brandon: Once you're out many females. Baby steps...I has 4 CDs and some say better of site of land, it all looks the agree absolutely. than Jimmy. I can associate with same. I wonder if your mate's many of these songs. worry is the lack of space, conven- Fishing in the North Channel Rick Bowman: Music is wonder- iences, or privacy for an extended Rod Brandon: Small mouth bass ful anytime on the water. My time. I agree with others to start like surface bait like a "Hula Pop- speakers are below deck, where small and build. per" or "Jitter Bug in or near a they do the most good, and don't Sandra: Being sailings female, I bog. For large mouth bass, use a bother other vessels. On those believe more females than males shiny spinner. Pickerel (walleye) quiet sailing days, when the are reluctant off shore sailors. like a Mepps Black Fury with a breezes are gentle and steady, mu- You can't share all interests with worm or a black jig with minnow sic can be nice. At a dock or at another person, if you both enjoy or white grub. Northern Pike like anchor, rain or shine, it's a must. sailing, there will be other things any kind of artificial with lots of John Coppedge you don't enjoy doing together. action that has mostly dark green on the back and orange on the Board Moderator
Clipper Snips Page 28 Spring 2004
Summer Solstice: USPS Rendezvous & T/SA Cruise ... Rick Bowman
complete a registra- a violent storm, the Mouth from tion form that will the South Ted Turner admitted his be posted on the folly. web http:// We WILL NOT be sailing in the www.usps.org/ conditions that caused his embar- localusps/flint/ rassment, and the weather will be summersolstice- watched as close as a midget refe- cruise.htm (link on ree at a dogfight. However, the T/SA web site). weather happens. This cruise will Or just contact me be near shore or coastal sailing, (your T/SA cruise from port to port. Safety is the ut- director) at most concern, and all else falls in [email protected] or line behind it. If the weather or leave me a message forecast turns ugly, staying at port at (810) 658-1506. and enjoying the area is a great op- The web site con- tion. Lake Huron is beautiful For many years in June, the Flint tains a loose schedule of planned where we will be sailing, but it s a US Power Squadron has had its events and a chart of Caseville har- double-edged sword. The same annual USPS Summer Rendezvous bor. beautiful water can and will on oc- at the Caseville Harbor. It s always I have been in contact with 2 differ- casion turn violent and treacherous. a great time, and as a USPS mem- ent members of the Caseville Har- It s awesome to watch the fury ber I thought it could also be a great bor Commission and have verbal from a safe harbor. jumping off point for a cruise of commitments for free parking for the thumb area. Here are some tips that you may our two week cruise at the local find useful. I talked to the USPS bridge offi- high school parking lot that is a few cers; they thought it a great idea. blocks from the marina. Have a strong desire to costal So, on their behalf, I invite any cruise in fresh water. T/SA Summer Solstice Cruise Trailer/Sailor Association members to participate in either or both of Leaving Caseville June 20, 2004. Interested in exploring quaint these sailing events. Arriving Presque Isle July 1, 2004 villages. by way of Tawas, Harrisville and USPS Summer Solstice Rendez- Willingness to climb tall light- Alpena vous Caseville June 18-20, 2004 houses. Optional of course. Just to clear the air, the USPS Sum- For any Trailer/Sailors who are in- Bring bicycles. Optional. Al- mer Rendezvous IS NOT required terested, this will be a great way to pena has an awesome bicycle for participation in the T/SA cruise. start the festivities of the T/SA path that goes through a nature They just have the time and loca- Summer Cruise with 1 full day and preserve, transits an island by tion in common. 2 evenings of relaxation. A local way of a footbridge, and is grocery store and hardware store in One might ask, Is this going to be mostly off road, but paved. Bi- Caseville will help with last minute an easy sail, with all of these luxu- cycle rentals are available at a provisioning. The cost is very rea- rious ports of call? Answer, Yes. local bike shop, which is close sonable ($22 for the whole week- But, you will appreciate a good to the harbor. end, including hot dogs Friday place to rest up for the next leg of All harbors on the cruise route night, a pot luck breakfast Saturday the journey. One southerner have slips; some allow anchor- morning, an ice cream social, and a once thought that any inland lake ing inside the harbor of refuge. steak & chicken dinner Saturday would be a cakewalk to race on, Some harbors (2 out of 4) have night). including the Great Lakes. After decent protected anchorages his sails were torn from the mast Any Trailer/Sailors interested in the outside of the harbor, especially and after almost grounding his ves- USPS Summer Rendezvous can sel on Lake Michigan s shoreline in (Continued on page 30)
Clipper Snips Page 29 Spring 2004
Summer Solstice: USPS Rendezvous & T/SA Cruise
(Continued from page 29) Presque Isle. I may try anchor- at Alpena for those that wish to ing out at Tawas this year retrieve their tow vehicles and 2004 USPS Solstice Rendezvous if the weather cooperates. trailers instead of sailing back to Friday : Welcome Harrisville has limited Caseville. Of course that is your 18:00 Hot dogs & cocktails anchoring outside of the personal decision, but I would 20:00 Movie (TBD) break wall due to its wide- like to rent a van in Alpena and open exposure, but on the share the rental/transportation Saturday :A Full Day flip side it has an awe- costs with anyone else that 9:00 Dish to pass (breakfast) some ice cream parlor and would be of like mind to return Based on Last Name restaurants. A theater, to Caseville and retrieve our tow A-H Breads bank and shops are close vehicles and trailers. Beautiful I-M Breakfast meats by. Presque Isle is the final destina- tion and a wonderful spot to N-R Breakfast Casseroles All harbors have show- hike and climb lighthouses. Ad- ers, electricity, pump outs S-Z Fruits ditionally, there is free long and fuel. Restaurants are 10:00 - 13:00 Blind Dingy Races term parking, if a boat trailer is nearby except at Presque 10:00 - 13:00 Bash at the Beach attached to the tow vehicle. For Isle, which has a lovely those sailors that are going to 10:00 - 13:00 Vessel Safety Check restaurant directly at the the North Channel Cruise (July 16:00 Silent Auction docks overlooking the 17-31), this may or may not be Marina. Three of the har- 18:00 Dinner of special interest to you. 20:00 Movie (TBD) bors have theaters nearby. If you have any further questions Sunday : Farewell Banks are close by at 3 of the 4 harbors. A major or comments just email or call. 8:00 Continental Breakfast marine repair facility and Rick Bowman Cost: $22 Adult chandlery is at Alpena. [email protected] $5 Children under 12 Car rentals are available (810) 658-1506 Ramp Report - Two Ramps On Lake Champlain ... John Ulmer
Cruising Lake Champlain is one of Boats are required to have holding many islands, bays, and coves to the truly great boating experiences tanks with no through hull connec- explore, and it has some of the best in North America. This lake is tion and porta-potties must be per- harbors on the lake. rightfully famous for its picture per- manently installed, with no way to This is where the only two cities on fect scenery, crystal clear water, and dump, other than by pumping out at the lake are located. Burlington, quaint New England villages. The a marina. These laws are very simi- Vermont is a dynamic little tourist lake's wonderful scenery is courtesy lar to the ones in Canada, so if you city. You will find lots of shopping of its unique location. It sits on the are legal there, you should be legal and restaurants here, and the whole border between New York and Ver- here. But don't be tempted to ignore city is within walking distance of mont, with Vermont's Green Moun- these laws. They are very strictly the harbor. There is a small city tains visible in the east, and New enforced! marina located right downtown, but York's Adirondack Mountains Lake Champlain is over 100 miles unfortunately there are not many sometimes rising right out of the long, and naturally divides itself transient slips available. If you water in the west. into three distinct cruising areas. want a dock, get there early. If you The lake's naturally clean water, The northern third is the widest and can't get a dock, you can anchor which many cottagers drink right most popular part of the lake. The near the ferry landing. from the lake, is kept that way by sailing here is outstanding. The Across the lake is Plattsburgh, New very tough holding tank laws. shore here is very irregular, with (Continued on page 31)
Clipper Snips Page 30 Spring 2004
Ramp Report - Two Ramps On Lake Champlain ...
(Continued from page 30) see deer coming York. This is an old industrial city, down to the shore to and when I first stopped there in drink. 1980, the downtown district seemed At the southern tip a little rundown. Since then the of the lake is the downtown has been greatly im- little town of White- proved, and the last time I visited, it hall. Whitehall may was very nice. One of the biggest be small, but it has a and best marinas on the lake is major claim to fame. within easy walking distance of the This is where the town. United States Navy As you go south, the lake becomes was born. During much narrower, and around Fort the Revolution, Lake Ticonderoga it is less than a mile Champlain provided wide. You can still find good sail- the British in Can- ing here because the wind is usually ada with an easy Lake Champlain from the north or south. The fort is invasion route into beautifully restored and from its the heart of the Colo- take him at least another summer to high stone walls you have a wonder- nies. Benedict Arnold built Amer- visit all the places he wanted to see. ful view of the lake. Their fine mu- ica's first naval fleet here, to defend By the way, most cruisers you will seum will explain the fort's role in the lake. There is a good museum meet on the lake are French Canadi- our colonial history. As far as I in town that has models of his ships. ans, as Montreal is much closer than know, there are still no docks near For a better understating of what Boston or New York City. They the fort, but you can anchor close to happened on the lake during the will add a little foreign flair to your the ferry dock and follow the road Revolution, read Rabble in Arms by cruise. up to the fort. Kenneth Roberts. It's a novel, but Kenneth Roberts gets his history Of course, you will need a cruising The extreme southern end of the right. guide of the lake, and one of the lake is so narrow that it is more like best is "A Cruising Guide to Lake a river than a lake. There are very Whitehall is also where the Cham- Champlain," edited by Alan and high hills on both sides, making it plain Canal joins the lake. If you tie Susan McKibben. difficult to find any wind for sailing, up near the lock, you can spend an but if you like solitude, this is where interesting afternoon watching the If you have the time, it is possible to you'll find it. The shore here is parade of boats entering and leaving extend your cruise beyond the lake. mostly undeveloped, and it is not the canal. In the south, the Champlain Canal uncommon, in the early morning, to connects you to the Hudson River You will find Lake Champlain full and the rest of the east coast and the of cruising possi- Erie Canal. In the north, the Riche- bilities. No matter lieu River will let you cruise to Can- how much time ada and the St. Lawrence River. In you spend here, either case, be prepared to go you will always through locks and lower your mast find someplace to get there. else to explore. When I was meas- Both New York and Vermont pro- uring the ramps for vide many fine boat ramps all along this report, I met a the lake shore, but since I couldn't French Canadian visit them all, I relied on the expert who had just fin- advice of some of our members to ished a 2 month select two ramps with the best loca- cruise of the lake. tions. Both ramps are on the New Willsboro Bay Launch Ramp He said it would (Continued on page 32)
Clipper Snips Page 31 Spring 2004
Ramp Report - Two Ramps On Lake Champlain
(Continued from page 31) right road because Willsboro's City over to the island to spend the York side of the lake, and there is Hall is on the corner. It is on the weekend on their boats. It has safe no fee for launching or parking at left, and is a small, modern looking anchorages, sandy beaches and either of these ramps. building. If you cross the bridge good hiking trails. It is usually into downtown, you have gone too crowded on summer weekends, but The first ramp is at Willsboro Bay, far. during the week you should have which is located just across the lake the place pretty much to yourselves. from Burlington. The bay is over Turn left on Rt. 62. You are now You can see Valcour Island in the three miles long, and offers good heading toward Willsboro Point. background of the ramp picture. sailing if the main lake is too rough. The ramp is about 2 miles out this Except on holiday weekends, you road. You will see the ramp sign Peru Docks has plenty of safe park- will find plenty of parking avail- on the right. None of the roads here ing, and there are good, clean, flush able. The parking lot is patrolled are well marked, but don't worry, toilets at the ramp. There are really by the police, and everyone I talked because once you turn at the City two ramps here, but not much room to said that they have had no prob- Hall, all roads go to the same place, to maneuver, so to keep down con- lems with anyone bothering cars. and all roads go past the ramp. gestion, they have designated one There is a marina close by if you ramp for launching and one ramp The 2nd ramp is located just south need a dock, and you may safely for retrieving. Because of the lack of Plattsburgh, at Peru Docks. To anchor in the bay near the ramp. of space, have done all your rigging get there, take Rt. 9 south from before you go to the ramp. The ramp is double-wide concrete Plattsburgh, or exit I-87 at Rt. 442 with no drop off, and there are and go east for three miles, and The ramps are 26 feet long and four docks at the ramp. The ramp was then go north on Rt. 9. This ramp and a half feet deep, giving a slope 30 feet long, and 3 1/2 feet deep at is at the widest part of the lake, but of 18 percent, and an angle of 10 the end, giving an 11 percent slope Valcour Island, just a half mile off degrees. There is a BIG drop-off at and an angle of 6 and a half de- shore, shields it from rough water. the end of both the ramps, so make grees. Marginally clean pit toilets sure you check for them before you During the Revolution, as the Brit- are the only comfort facilities avail- launch or haul out. If you need a ish invasion fleet moved down the able at the ramp. dock for the night, Snug Harbor lake, Benedict Arnold and his small Marina is located just next door, but The easiest way to get there from I- defending fleet hid behind Valcour most people simply anchor near the 87 is to exit on Rt. 22 and go Island. When the British discov- island. southeast toward the town of Wills- ered Arnold s fleet they moved in boro. As you approach the town for the kill. A small but bloody It is too bad that more sailors can't you will come to the intersection of battle was fought, but as evening experience the pleasures of cruising Rt. 62. This road may not be well fell, Arnold was able to sneak away Lake Champlain, but for most marked, but you will know it is the in the darkness and fog, to fight cruisers it just takes to long to get another day. there by water. Trailer sailors, on Arnold's brilliant the other hand, can get there delaying tactics quickly, many in less than a day. It on the lake saved is a wonderful place to cruise. the United States Come, and enjoy. from destruction Send your ramp reports and ramp in the early years information requests to : of the war. John Ulmer Today Valcour 659 S. Canal St. Island is a very pleasant park. Canal Fulton, OH 44614 Many people Phone : 330-854-3796 launch their Note new email address - boats at Peru [email protected] Peru Docks Docks and sail
Clipper Snips Page 32 Spring 2004
North Channel Cruise: Discover Manitoulin Island John Travis
last year for their first trip to the North Channel. I asked Gary for his impressions and this was his response: Celeste and I had a great time on the North Channel Cruise, I had read about this area for some time and wondered if it could pos- sibly live up to the claims of those who had sailed there. I should not have worried the area is absolutely spectacular! The big- gest plus of this cruise were the people participating. When the situation called for anchoring with a shore line, there was al- ways someone handy to toss a line to. Just a great group of very friendly people. All I know is that for our first time there, it was nice to be in the company of so many It's that time of year again. The world, with five stops on its north- friendly North Channel Veter- days are getting longer, the winter ern shore. ans. boat shows have begun and a The cruise dates are July 17th to sailor's fancy turns to the upcoming For Coleen and myself, this will be July 31st and will again begin at sailing season. Time to uncover the our fifth summer with the trailer Spanish, Ontario. We look forward boat and make plans to attend the sailors and each year has provided to seeing old friends and welcom- 2004 Trailer/Sailors North Channel us with many fond memories. Join ing new sailors to the group. For Cruise. Coleen, Casper and I will us this year and make some memo- anyone who has not been to the be leading our second cruise and ries for yourself. North Channel, this is a perfect op- we have tried to add some new des- portunity to test the waters. tinations this year. The cruise will If you wish to join the cruise this concentrate on Manitoulin Island, Gary and Celeste Felix on their year please send me the following the largest freshwater island in the boat Medication Time joined us information:
Boat Name Boat Make, Model, Length Crew Members Launch Date Launch Site Home Port e-mail Address For (much) more information, see the T/SA web site, or contact me. John Travis (920) 459-8382 North Channel Cruise 2004: Float Plan [email protected]
Clipper Snips Page 33 Spring 2004
North Channel Cruise: Discover Manitoulin Island (Float Plan)
Day/Date Destination Comments Sat 7/17 Arrive Spanish Municipal The Town of Spanish is located on Canadian Hwy 17, follow Marina (1); set up & launch; the signs to Spanish Municipal Marina. This is a newer facility evening Potluck at Spanish with a good launch ramp, showers, and they serve a nice breakfast for a first-day send off. Sun 7/18 Launch and head for John Less a harbour than a passage between the Whale Back Harbour, John Island (2) Channel and the North Channel. This area is well protected with numerous anchorages between John Island and Dewdney Island. The approach is from the north to the west of Gowan Island. Mon 7/19 Layday at John Island Blueberry picking and evening blueberry pancake supper
Tue 7/20 Early departure for Bayfield This is a large body of water consisting of numerous bays, Sound, Manitoulin Island (3) extending into Manitoulin Island. Our anchorage will be determined on arrival depending on weather conditions. Wed Proceed to Gore Bay (4), This is a good provisioning port with easy access to groceries 7/21 real food, hot showers, and and a good marine store if you need charts or other boat a good marine store supplies. This is a good opportunity to get together with other group members for a nice dinner in town. Thu 7/22 Proceed to Clapperton A large open entrance with plenty of room for those who prefer Harbour, Clapperton Island to swing on anchor. Harbour Island provides protection from (5); dinghy happy hour the south so we will likely tuck behind it to anchor.
Fri 7/23 Day trip to Kagawong( 6), Because of its small marina, look to consolidate crews on as visit Anglican Church or few boats as possible to visit the area. Local attractions Bridal Veil Falls include the Anglican Church with its nautical theme and Bridal Veil Falls. The distance from Clapperton Harbour is about 5 nm. Sat 7/24 Proceed to Little Current Another Marina Stop, and a good dinner at the Anchor Inn (7), Spider Bay Marina followed by Farquhars' Ice Cream. Sun 7/25 Proceed to Frazer Bay (8), Located between the Lansdowne Channel and Baie Finn, plan anchor at Blueberry Island to anchor at either Blueberry Island or the unnamed island just north of Blueberry, at the far east end of the bay. Mon 7/26 Proceed to Sheguiandah Another stop on Manitoulin Island, is a large bay just south of Bay (9), possibly the oldest Strawberry Island. An archeological site located just to the settlement in North America north of Sheguiandah suggests that a settlement existed almost 10,000 years ago, making it the oldest known Tue 7/27 Back to Little Current (10) Alwayssettlement worth in Northa second America. visit. Wed Proceed to Croker Island A Trailer/Sailor tradition, a great place to climb and hike. Last 7/28 (11), A Trailer Sailor favorite year it was the best spot we found for blueberries. Don't forget Dinghy Bingo!! Thu 7/29 Lay day at Croker Time for dinghy bingo, don't forget your bingo prizes Fri 7/30 Proceed to Shoepack Bay A deep Anchorage but not bad if you tie close to shore. The (12) large flat rock at its entrance is perfect for the final night s (traditional "we were afraid to eat it, so let's feed it to someone else") potluck. Sat 7/31 Back to Spanish (13) haul out and head home
Clipper Snips Page 34 Spring 2004
Member Ads Welcome New T/SA Members
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Clipper Snips Page 35 Spring 2004
Trailer/Sailors Association The Trailer/Sailors Association is a non-profit organization formed more than 15 years ago. Its members provide a exchange of ideas and information about all aspects of sailing trailerable sailboats. Our more than 500 members are scattered across the USA and Canada, and the diversity of their experiences enrich the association and heightens our collective interest in small sailboat cruising. Clipper Snips, published in a Winter, Spring, and Fall issues, is the official publication of the organization, provid- ing cruising articles, association announcements, how-to articles, and free classified ads.
Association Officers: President: John Clement, 51 Hillside Dr. Aurora, ON Cruise Recorder: Don Ziliox, 1340 Elmdale NE, Grand L4G 6E1 Canada, (905) 727-3492, E-mail: Rapids, MI 49525, (616) 361-8230, E- [email protected] mail:[email protected] Treasurer: David Craigie, 101 W. Marshall, Midwest Launch Ramp Advisory: John Ulmer, 659 S. Canal St., City, OK 73110, (405) 741-2555, E-mail: Box 4101, Canal Fulton, OH 44614 (330) 854-3796, [email protected]. E-mail: [email protected] Assistant Treasurer: Jack Beggs, 2586 Cheswick, Troy, MI, 48084-1012, (248) 646-5082, E-mail: Gizmos, Gadgets, and Galley Column- Debbie Bell [email protected]. (ed.), 344 Creek Dr., Slippery Rock, PA 16057 (724) 794- Trailersailors.org Webmasters: Mike & Diana Nelson, 4704, E-mail: [email protected] 2717 N. River Rd., Yellow Springs, OH 45387, (937) 767 Public Relations: Gary Schafer, 2578 Pembroke, Bir- 9487, E-mail: [email protected] mingham, MI 48009, (248) 649-4911, E-Mail: TRAILSAIL Discussion Board Leader: John [email protected] Coppedge, 2557 Queenston road, Cleveland, OH 44118 Clipper Snips Associate Editor: Gary Felix, 5121 (216) 932-9126, E-mail: [email protected] Western Avenue, Omaha, NE 68132, (402) 553- New Member Secretary: Dick Zets, 11420 Coun- 2011, E-Mail: [email protected] try Line Rd, Forestville, NY 14062-9741, E- mail:[email protected] Clipper Snips Editor: Joe Orinko, 433 Lincoln Avenue, Erie, PA 16505-2449, (814) 456-6469, E-mail: [email protected]
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Clipper Snips Page 36 Spring 2004