Docking a boat during a stopover

Question

Hi all, looking for some answers from a real newbie to boating....

I'm looking to buy something around 26 to 32 ft for some weekend trips, etc. but had absolutely no idea how I would go about stopping over at various docks throughout the country.

I'm located in NY and would like to take trips to Maine or even down the east coast but didn't know what is the process to stop over, refuel, etc.

Do I contact various marinas and arrange space or does it work some other way? Also, has any one done these types of trips or am I optimistic to think about taking a motor boat that far?

Any help would be greatly appreciated as I'm just learning about all of this. Thanks a lot!

Answer 1

Sounds like you are just getting into boating.  I would suggest if you are looking to start with a boat in the 26 to 32 foot range, you stay at a local marina, getting use to handling there.

When you are confident in traveling beyond your local area, pick up nautical charts of the area you would like to cruise and check out "Skipper Bob's" different publications.  Skipper Bob's has been around for quite a while, I learned about these after I left my local area.

Also, check out your local squadron of the U. S. Power Squadron.  They have a lot of courses in boating that you may find helpful.

http://www.usps.org/

They also have boating insurance for their members.

Answer 2

First and foremost welcome to the wonderful world of boating! It's an adventure that you will cherish forever!

My wife and I have made trips such as you mention in your post and in vessels at 26' & 33'.  I can assure you that you'll find and feel much more secure and comfortable in one at 32' or larger.

The key to this is to contact the marinas you wish to stay at (usually via email) and let them know the dates you'd like to become a "transient" with them. If they have space for your vessel they'll welcome you with open arms.

As for fuel, you can call a marina on the VHF radio and state that you'd like to fuel up. Here in the DC area all marinas will sell fuel to any boater who pulls up to the fuel dock. There are very few who will only sell to those whose boats are kept with them.

Before you head out on the water though make certain you have taken a boating safety course and carry your certificate with you. Also, and this comes highly recommended, join BoatUS and sign up for their unlimited towing package. It's not that expensive (w/ membership about $125/yr) but if it does become needed you'll be ever so glad you have it!

And lastly always remember to file a float plan with someone you know and stick to it. This will give the person you left the plan with your routing and the opportunity to notify the USCG if you don't make a port or return home when you said you would.

Good luck and safe boating to you!!

Answer 3

Do some local cruising first, get some experience with the boat and marinas.  

Plan a few short trips away from your local waters.  When you are ready get a good cruise guide, will have charts and local information for marinas.  Plan your days for running and your days at marinas.  You may want to plan to stay at marinas that have things close by to see and do.  

BTW - make sure you visit the Chesapeake Bay Area with Annapolis, St Michael's and Tilghman Island as well as many more great places to visit in the bay and rivers.

Answer 4

It is always best to research a trip before hand. Most Marinas have transient docking. It is always a good idea to call ahead, but not always mandatory. Note, that not all marinas sell fuel. You can buy waterway guides and gps's that have all the marina info you will need. also people have written books on traveling by boat including Walter Chronkite. These are sold at your local marine stores like West Marine and Boater World.

You will love taking boat trips. It will not be cheap but to me, Its worth it. The size range of a boat that you are looking at can go from Bangor to Key West as long as you plan your fuel stops.