Boating Times LI (NOV-DEC 08 ISSUE) by Boating Times Long Island

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November / December 2008

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DAY TRIPPERS Huntington Westhampton Beach North Hempstead Beach Kismet

BOATERS’ HOLIDAY WISHES Gift suggestions to fit every budget

US COAST GUARD AUXILIARY BOAT FRIENDS RESTAURANT REVIEWS

NAV TOOL ROUTES FOR ALL DAY TRIPPERS

Plus: Style • Boat Safe Kids • Marina 411 • Trailer Times

From The Editor My friends all know that I am at my happiest when the temperature is 80 degrees or higher. But since the warm days of 2008 are just a memory now, and summer 2009 is a long way off, I need to catch up with the fall holiday buzz and get things in order for winter. We’ve got all your bases covered in this issue. I e-mailed about 40 boaters who read our magazine, asking them what holiday gifts they’d love to receive. You can read their suggestions, as well as my list of thoughtful gifts that cost very little money but show how much you care. When your shopping is done, and you’re looking at some long, cold months before boating season begins, you may want to consider the reasons in our article to join the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, where you’ll receive training, help protect our waters, and enjoy the company of other civic minded and social boaters. And reading about Tab Hauser’s “Boat Friends” may inspire you to start talking to your dock neighbors instead of merely nodding as you pass each other by all summer long. My family and I wish you the happiest of holiday seasons, the most memorable celebrations with your family and friends, great boating memories to keep you warm, and peace.

Day Trippers

Letters To The Editor pg 24

Huntington pg 11 Westhampton Beach pg 18 North Hempstead Beach pg 27 Kismet pg 31

Don't Do What I Did! pg 26 Marina 411 pg 28

Restaurant Reviews

Trailer Times pg 30

Tutto Pazzo pg 10 Catfish Max pg 25

Stop, Thief!

Articles Holiday Gifts pg 7 Joining the US Coast Guard Auxiliary pg 12 Scuttlebutts & Brass Monkeys pg 14 Boat Friends pg 16 Book Review & Poem pg 17 Know How To Row Before You Go pg 20

Blue Water, Green Boat pg 22 Clean Up Before Selling

Publisher Barry Mines bmines@boatingtimesli.com Editor-In-Chief Lita Smith-Mines editor@boatingtimesli.com Style Editor Hayley Mines features@boatingtimesli.com Production Manager Francine Morrell production@boatingtimesli.com

Style pg 32

Production Supervisor Catherine Katsafouros CKatsafourous@boatingtimesli.com

Boat Mentoring pg 33

Advertising Sales Harvey A. Ziontz hziontz@boatingtimesli.com 631-805-9040, Ext. 14

Events pg 34 Classifieds pg 35 Contributors:

Kids pgs 21

Boating Times Long Island 35 Crooked Hill Road, Suite 200 Commack, NY 11725 Tel: 631-805-9040 / Fax: 631-245-6459

BoatSafeKids; Earth911.org; Jerry Heit (photo of Catfish Max); Brandon Koebel & Stephen Steponaitis (featured in “Know How To Row”); M2 Imaging.

Look for the Winter 2009 issue of Boating Times Long Island

at the end of January.

Mark Sternhell msternhell@boatingtimesli.com 631-805-9040 Ext. 18 Classified Sales Sam Mines 631-805-9040, Ext. 17 Boating Times LI is a monthly publication published ten times per year for and about Long Island boaters. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the publisher. Boating Times LI encourages editorial contributions in the form of stories, information, photographs and technical expertise. E-mail contribute@boatingtimesli.com Copies are available free at locations throughout Long Island including marinas, yacht clubs, marine retailers, restaurants, as well as many other businesses. Businesses interested in receiving or distributing copies should contact us at 631 805-9040 or by e-mail at info@boatingtimesli.com Boating Times LI is available free of charge. Issues are also available by mail for an annual mailing fee of $25. Mail payments to: Boating Times LI 35 Crooked Hill Rd., Suite 200 • Commack, NY 11725 ©2008 All Rights Reserved Not responsible for typographical errors.

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Holiday Gifts For Boaters

hether it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas or Chanukah or any other gift giving occasion, we have some great ideas for boaters. Some suggestions rank high on boater’s wish lists according to my informal e-mail poll of about 40 boaters, and others are extremely affordable (or even free) in difficult economic times. The overwhelming majority of boaters who shared their holiday wishes are longing to get a gift-wrapped GPS this December. According to Chuck Hanlon of Fred Chall Marine Supply, the most popular, affordable GPS is the Lowrance Global Map 5200C, priced under $450.00. Looking for the most bells and whistles in a gift GPS? Hanlon suggests that the features in Garmin’s model GPS Map 5215, such as a12” touch screen & multi-function capability, make it a great gift at $3,499.00. Three long-time sailors wrote that they hoped to receive music to listen to while aboard, and one specified “anything other than Jimmy Buffet”. Seems Mr. Buffet is the artist of choice for many gift givers, with boxed sets such as four CDs entitled Boats, Beaches, Bars & Ballads http://www.margaritavillestore.com for $59.98. But if your boater is maxxed out on Buffet, drummer and recording artist Lionel Cordew recommends Jeff Lorber’s He Had A Hat and Chieli Minucci & Special EFX’s Sweet Surrender. A power boat owner wanted to receive Billy Joel’s Storm Front to play on board, and I think another was being humorous when he wrote he’d appreciate CDs “by the Irish Rovers, especially ‘What Do You Do With A Drunken Sailor?’”.

Books about boating are welcome in the winter months, when most of us only dream about our summer pastime. Book Revue in Huntington (www.bookrevue.com) shares the following gift recommendations for Long Island boaters: Boatworks: Sailboat Maintenance, Repair, and Improvement Advice You Can’t Get Anywhere Else; Further Offshore: A Practical Guide for Sailors by Ed Mapes; and Kayaking Long Island’s Harbors, by Mark Gehrke, which offers a paddler’s view and a detailed description of each of 24 harbors that span the western portion of Nassau County to the northern and southern forks of Suffolk County. For the safety conscious, a carbon monoxide detector is a welcome gift, and a good quality one is available for under $200.00. A boating education, safety or New York State boating and PWC certification course makes the perfect gift for all boaters ages 10 through adult. At about $60.00, Safe Boating America offers gift certificates to 30 course locations in Nassau and Suffolk www.safeboatingamerica.com or (516) 216-4410. Do you know boaters who keep their iPods or camcorders in plastic bags, or leave them home for fear of what would happen if the equipment gets wet? Specially designed waterproof cases such as those available from http://www.waterproofcases.net are ideal ways to calm their fears. Energizer makes waterproof flashlights starting at about $10.00: why not get two for that boater always saying “oops” as he drops the light into the bilge? And while we’re thinking waterproof, there are many hand-held VHF radio models you could buy to replace the likely-to-get-destroyed models some boaters have onboard. Continued on page 8

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Holiday Gifts For Boaters Continued from page 7

For any sailor or cruiser, a gift certificate to a local marine supplier is a great way for the recipient to stock up in the spring, while supporting neighborhood merchants this winter. And a much-appreciated present for someone who trailers her boat is a gift card for fuel in any amount you can afford. Adopting a turtle, whale, dolphin or seal is a wonderful way to share nature with a child. For $30.00 at http://www.riverhead foundation.org you get photos, a sticker and a fact sheet about a sea creature to present, and your gift will help provide food and medication for animals in need of care. The Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo has a “Sea Life Bitty Bucket” with play mat for kids at $6.00 http://nationalzoo.si.edu/shop/ Since so many gift-givers are on a tight budget this year, boaters will know you’re thinking of them all year long with a gift of a nautical calendar, such as Wooden Boats for $14.95 http://www.WoodBoatCalendar.com or

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Classic Outboard Boats and Motors for $15.00 http://antiqueoutboardcalendar.googlepages.com/. When it comes to saying “I care” without breaking the piggy bank, creativity goes a long way towards making a gift seem wonderful and heartfelt. A nautical wine charm set includes a lighthouse, boat, anchor, helm, dolphin and whale’s tail to attach to wine glass stems, $12.99 for six http://www.wineglasscharms.com/. Seashells with a “fresh, sea inspired aroma” for $25.00 or a framed print that says “we come to the sea to breathe” for $39.00 will brighten any boater’s home www.femailcreations.com. A gift certificate promising to arrange a Vessel Safety Check in the spring is free and a great gift for a new boater http://www.vesselsafetycheck.org/GetVSC/. The Silver Puffin has nautical playing cards for $7.80 http://www.silverpuffin.com And what says “have fun dreaming about boating this winter” better than a DVD of Rescue From Gilligan’s Island, that not so classic 1978 movie available for about $6.00 at www.amazon.com?

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November / December 2008

Restaurant Review Tutto Pazzo 84 New York Avenue, Huntington 631-271-2253 • http://www.tuttopazzo.com/ Think you’re lucky if you get a spot at the Huntington Town marina for an hour? You’d be even luckier if you cross the street to dine at Tutto Pazzo, where the name means “totally crazy” but the northern Italian cuisine is both perfectly sane and way above your average harbor side fare. Heading past the patrons seated at the comfortable bar, diners are escorted onto the patio or one of the dining rooms designed to make them feel like they’ve entered Tuscany, and handed a menu with many, many delicious sounding choices. As appetizers, a special of baby artichokes oreganato and a regular menu offering of Panzrella (toasted bread with “tuscan beans” and roasted tomatoes) were wise selections, as were Gnocchi Stuffed Spring Rolls, Crabmeat Bruschetta, or raw bar offerings. One of nine salads such as Huntington Bay Lobster Chef Salad (there are four more salads billed as “entree sized”) might have made for a tasty enough lunch, accompanied by the heaping basket of crispy bread and arancini. But we would be crazy if we stopped now, as there was so much more food to taste! Pizzas were deliciously crispy and well topped, and the pasta-bilities on the menu included homemade, fresh ravioli “twisters”, angel hair with mussels, pappardelle with grilled chicken, and spaghetti carbonara. Chicken, veal, and fish selections are offered every day, with steaks and chops listed as specials. Sides of meatballs or sausage were available, as

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well as spinach or broccoli rabe. And our server was most happy to bring a second helping of the bread for those dishes whose sauces just begged to be sopped up and savored. Vegetarians and vegans won’t have to search to find a delicious meal here. There are three “vegetarian appetizers” on the menu (including a cheese-free vegetarian antipasto that included an array of well-prepared vegetables) and an array of pastas and some of the aforementioned salads, all of which make choosing a pleasant chore for those used to limited offerings at many Long Island restaurants. From Noon to 6:00 PM, Tutto Pazzo offers smaller sized early lunch and dinner specials, currently priced at $17.95, which includes a salad, entrées such as lasagna or penne with chicken and mushrooms, dessert and coffee. There’s also a lunch menu with items such as cheese burgers and frittatas in addition to the regular fare, and a children’s menu priced at $10.95 for entrée, drink, and ice cream, with choices such as pizza or baked ziti. Desserts range from the expected, such as cannoli, tartuffo, and tiramisu, to one as unexpected as a chocolate banana with vanilla ice cream. Whatever meal and whichever sweet ending you choose at Tutto Pazza, you’ll depart with your sanity intact after enjoying this slice of Tuscany along the shores of Huntington.

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November / December 2008

Day Tripper Huntington

Exploring Long Island’s “Gold Coast” is always a fun way to spend a day, and you can’t do better than choosing Huntington as your day trip destination. To reach this north shore harbor town, enter Huntington Bay from the Long Island Sound and head south past Lloyd Harbor towards Huntington Harbor. Staying east of the Huntington Lighthouse, head into Huntington Harbor, which winds around Lloyd Harbor, Huntington Bay and Halesite. You’ll spot the castle-like Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, built in 1912. Public docking is not permitted, but one hour tours may be arranged in season (631-421-1985) leaving from the Town Park at Gold Star Battalion Beach. The Town Marina at Halesite (631-351-3255) has time limitations, so if you’re planning to spend a good part of a day, West Shore Marina (631-427-3444), Coneys Marine (631-421-3366), Willis Marine (631-421-3400) and Knutsons Yacht Haven (631-549-7842) all offer transient accommodations; just be sure to call before you head out to reserve a slip. Depending on location, dining may be a short walk. If you want to go to what locals call “Huntington Village”, that’s just about a mile away; car service or taxis may be arranged at the marina if you don’t want to walk. A visit to Huntington should include the Heckscher Museum of Art, on the grounds of beautiful Hecksher Park along Route 25A (631- 351 3250). It houses a collection spanning 500 years of western art (earliest work is from 1534), with admissions under $10.00 per person. Take your lunch to go from one of the many different restaurants and food places along Main Street, New York Avenue, or the other side streets, and picnic in the park before spending time browsing the Museum’s current exhibit and permanent collection. After a relaxing lunch and art gazing, shopping in Huntington beckons. Book Revue on New York Avenue (631-271-1442), has rare and collectible books as well as best selling and local authors. The “village” has walkable streets and stores ranging from Ricky’s fun fashion accessories and cosmetics, Lion in the Sun unique papers and cards, and Little Switzerland Dolls on Main Street, to Ragamuffins’s children’s clothing or Cupcake Gourmet’s creations on Gerard Street, so there’s enough to occupy a boat load of window shoppers and retail enthusiasts.

November / December 2008

Huntington has plenty of other sites for daytrippers, such as Coindre Hall Park, which epitomizes Long Island’s Gold Coast. Built for a pharmaceutical baron in 1912, the grounds are 33 acres with an 80,000 square foot mansion with medieval turrets overlooking Huntington Harbor. The mansion, acquired by Suffolk County, is listed as an example of “French chateau architecture” by the National Register of Historic Places. Splashes of Hope, a non-profit organization of artists, offers free guided tours during the summer (631-424-8230). The Van Wyck-Lefferts Tide Mill, built in 1795, is the only North Shore mill on its original dam with its building and massive wooden gears intact. The Huntington Historical Society conducts two hour guided tours by boat over the summer (631) 427-7045. The Society has a museum and shop on the Dr. Daniel Kissam property at 434 Park Avenue (631-427-3984), open all year. Take a cab to the Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site and Interpretive Center in West Hills (631-427-5240), a New York State Historic Site, to see Whitman portraits, original letters, manuscripts, artifacts, and hear the poet’s voice on tape, along with nineteenth century furnishings and unusual architecture. There’s also a picnic area and maps are available for a hiking tour of beautiful and historic West Hills. For relaxation, non-residents may use the town beaches: Crescent, Gold Star Battalion, and West Neck, with a permit (631-261-7574). Sites of interest: http://town.huntington.ny.us/, http://huntingtonlighthouse.org/,www.huntingtonchamber.com, www.huntingtonhistorical society.org/, www.heckscher.org, http://www.waltwhitman.org/

Visit www.boatingtimesli.com and then select Nav Tool to view a trip route to Huntington

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Reasons To Join The US Coast Guard Auxiliary twofold: first, to give back to the community and be of service to the recreational boating community and second, to increase their own boating knowledge. These are individuals who love being on the water and want to help out doing something they enjoy.”

Steve O’Rourke, SO-MT Div 13 1SR teaching Marlin Spike, at Station Jones Beach, Freeport, to new member Pat Sewell as Coxswain Brendan Earls looks on. Photo by Ken Sommers, USCGAUX

any viewers have laughed at the folly of Denny & Alan joining the US Coast Guard Auxiliary on TV’s Boston Legal, watching two men of advancing years, barely able to swim, volunteering to defend our waters. Though played for laughs, viewers were still touched at how much these men loved their country and wanted to be a part of its protection. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard about to celebrate its 70th anniversary. It is made up of men and women who conduct safety patrols, assume homeland security duties, help keep vessels safer and make boaters smarter. These volunteers directly support the Coast Guard in every way except military and law enforcement. The requirements to join the Auxiliary are listed at http://nws.cgaux.org/: “Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 17 years old, and pass a basic background check. There are no upper age limits or height/weight standards, although for operational activities, you must be physically able to perform certain tasks. There are no minimum service hours – you can serve as little or as much as you want. You do not have to own a boat or participate in water-based operations to join the Auxiliary.” According to Terry Kinch, FSO-Public Affairs Officer for the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Eaton’s Neck Division 22, the Auxiliary is made up of “individuals volunteering many hours and they are often unsung heroes”. She advises that “what prompts most members to join the Auxiliary is

Increasing boating knowledge is indeed the lure for many volunteers. The Auxiliary website promises “rigorous level of hands-on training and qualification as boat-crew and coxswain. Qualified Auxiliarists perform regular safety patrol missions in their local area and support local boating activities on-the-water such as regattas, fireworks & fleet visits.” In addition, qualified volunteers work side by side with the US Coast Guard in “many other mission areas, including environmental protection, Commercial Vessel Safety Inspections, Port Security and Planning, Licensing and Documentation, and other vital operational roles.” Auxiliarists receive training virtually identical to that of their active duty and reserve counterparts (with the exception of law enforcement and military specific tasks).

R U

pu sta do lif

So lis th m an th pe

PWC Coxswain James Dunn, 13-06, 1Sr on patrol in Woodcleft Canal, Station Jones Beach

As many of us lead busy lives without much time to spare, Officer Kinch advises that each volunteer determines her or his time commitment: “Some members are only able to give a few hours a month because of other demands on their time…Others are able to give many hours monthly to the auxiliary for which we are very lucky. Whatever a member can offer to the auxiliary is welcome as long as they get involved in at least one of our missions, be it

Th Co to be wa kn be stu lea Au

Fo ht O

Continued on next page

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November / December 2008

f d e o

y l d y g t e , l g ” f n

, r e n y a s t

Reasons To Join The US Coast Guard Auxiliary

Officer Terry Kinch

public education, vessel examination, radio watch standing, our chef program, search and rescue, or marine domain awareness. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life, chef, maintenance, teachers, business professionals etc.” Social aspects are stressed on the Auxiliary website, which lists it as a reason beyond public service to join. “Enjoy the company of fellow Auxiliarists during training missions, at meetings, or social events. We enjoy our work and we enjoy each other’s company!” Officer Kinch adds that Auxiliary members are “wonderful people and great people to be friends with”. The personal satisfaction derived from joining the US Coast Guard Auxiliary cannot be overlooked. According to Officer Kinch, “I personally derive a lot. There is nothing better than being able to rescue a boater in trouble on the water and help them to get to safety. It is wonderful knowing you were able to help someone. There is nothing better than teaching a boating safety class and having a student come up after class saying how much she or he learned. In addition, because of all the training available to Auxiliarists, I have sharpened my boating skills. For more information call 1-877-875-6296, log onto http://auxpdept.org/general/signUp.php, or contact Officer Kinch at gocgaux@live.com or 631-766-3708.

November / December 2008

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Scuttlebutts & Brass Monkeys Story & Photos by Howard Marks

number of words and expressions came from a time of sailing ships made from wood, tar, nails and cloth. Though scholars and sailors don’t always agree on their origins, many possess a certain charm, which you may have fun retelling and embellishing on your boat, mooring, dock or anchorage with friends and a cup of sailor’s grog.

A ship’s documentation showing the port it sailed from was free from epidemic or infection became known as a clean bill of health. A slate tablet was kept near a ship’s helm for the watch keeper to record speeds, distances, headings and tacks. No problems during the watch? The information would be wiped away and the new watch could start with a clean slate.

Starboard and larboard (or port) are terms for right and left, respectively. In old England, the starboard was the right side with the steering paddle, while the larboard was the left side on which the ship was loaded. Shouted over the noise of wind and waves, larboard and starboard sounded too much alike: as ports were openings on the left to unload cargo, eventually sailors started calling the whole side port (the word was officially adopted by the U.S. Navy in 1846). Barrels were butts and scuttles were small cut holes; thus a scuttlebutt was a water barrel with a hole in it. As sailors exchanged information when they gathered for drinks of water, “scuttlebutt” became U.S. Navy slang for gossip or rumors. Fat obtained by scraping a ship’s emptied salted meat barrels, called slush, was sold ashore by the ship’s cook for the benefit of himself or the crew. After scraping the barrel, the money was a slush fund. Continued on next page

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Scuttlebutts & Brass Monkeys

Three basic sheets (lines) trim a ship’s sails. If all were loose, the sails would flap, flutter, and produce no power. A ship in this condition would be three sheets to the wind, wandering aimlessly without direction (like a drunken sailor). On a three masted ship, each mast supported three large square sails on horizontal spars known as yards. A ship flying all her sails was sailing with the whole nine yards. Clipper ships had more ropes than one could keep track of easily; only experienced sailors could be expected to know the ropes. When folks sailed from England to India (which must have been after 1846), the cooler and more comfortable cabins in the shade were on the port out starboard home side, eventually shortened to posh. Cannon balls were stacked on a “monkey” and usually made from brass. When the temperature dropped the monkey would contract and the balls wouldn’t stay stacked, thus making it cold enough outside to freeze the balls off a brass monkey! The curved seam in the deck planking where it meets the hull is the devil. If there was a storm and a sailor slipped on the deck and washed up against the gunwale, he would find himself caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. When called to attention, sailors knew to form up with their toes touching a seam in the deck planking: toe the line. The Royal Navy’s punishment for serious crimes was flogging by a cat o’nine tails kept in a leather bag. It was considered bad news indeed for a sailor to have let the cat out of the bag!

November / December 2008

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Boat Friends Story & photo by Tab Hauser

his has been our third seasons as boat owners. Readers may recall we purchased our 35’ Carver MY on eBay three seasons ago (June 2008 issue, Boating Times Long Island). While we knew from day one we would be in for adventures at sea, we did not quite understand the social aspect of boating. We had heard that the nice thing about boating was hanging out with other boaters, but we sort of “missed the boat” on that one our first season. People at our dock kept to themselves, did not care to meet the new boaters, or did not get out much on the water. That season my wife Maureen and I would choose a day trip by ourselves or with a close group of non-boating friends. We’d throw out the anchor after cruising 90 minutes and relax, but we never rafted up and partied with anyone. After season one, we requested to move to the next dock due to an overly tight slip fit, and getting to “Dock A” changed boating for us. The first week we sat on our boat’s aft section and watched our boat neighbors go back with forth with beer, food, lots of laughter and advice to each other on what was going on with their boats for the new season. One by one people came up to us and asked: “Are you sure you want to be on that slip?” and “Who punished you and moved you to this side of the marina?” After a few jokes and questions about boating we were pleased to be welcomed into this circle of good people. Our boating friends are as diverse in their boats as they are in family make up. The boats range from 27 to 40 feet; some are newer than others. The people in this fleet range from late thirties to seniors; they are bachelors and families with jobs in many fields. All these people share a love for

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boating and being with their boat mates. They have taught us that we do not have to spend a half of tank of gas to have fun on the water. A simple decision by someone to go 10 minutes into Manhasset Bay or shoot across the Sound 20 minutes and raft up for the entire day has made great boating while being easy on the gas bills. These raft ups has been nothing less than play dates for adults sharing their food, booze and water toys. When I say “share”, I mean that literally. One boat neighbor had a 4HP engine that was underpowered for his rowing dinghy, while I felt my 6HP engine was a little too heavy to lift from my aft deck down the ladder to my swim platform. With this in mind, we simply switched for the season with the understanding that we can return the motors anytime. I also know that my boat neighbor will always check around my boat in case a storm is brewing and I in turn will tighten his lines when he is away. Whether it’s a bottle of boat cleaner or a bottle of tequila, my neighbors know that anything I have that they need may be shared even if I am not around. The fact that the key of the boat on our port side coincidently works on my boat makes it easier! Lastly, my boat neighbors have made me a better boater over all by coaching me on some skills that needed help, without making me feel intimidated. On Dock A, friends like this do not come easy and they have made our past two seasons more enjoyable. At the risk of sounding a bit mushy, our thanks to the crew and friends of Miss Colorado, Jumbo Shrimp, Duchess, Sweet Marie, About Time, The End, Sea Drive and Bottom Line as well as the others on Dock A who will always stop and grab a line for someone coming in. Let’s keep in touch this winter a bit more.

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November / December 2008

Book Review by Effie Speyer

NOVEMBER IN SEASON HOLIDAYS NEAR AS BOATERS AROUND CAST THEIR GLANCE TO NOVEMBER’S ABOUND

The Last Summer of You and Me written by Ann Brashares (publisher, Riverhead Trade)

Ann Brashares, famous for her successful Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series, is now speaking to a more mature audience through this passionate story of love, loss, loyalty, disappointment and hope.

TREES WITHOUT LEAVES WATERS SO CLEAR LESS BOATS IN OUR INLETS UNTIL EARLY NEXT YEAR

Set in a beach community on Fire Island, Brashares descriptions are so specific you can almost feel the splintered boardwalk under your bare feet as well as the salt on your skin from a day at the beach as she relates the story of Alice and Riley, who have spent every summer since they were small at their modest beach home. Now in their twenties, they are spending one last summer together with their best friend and neighbor, Paul, before they all enter the adult world of responsibility. This summer turns out to be like no other as secrets are revealed, relationships are defined and pain is felt in so many forms. This is a sensitive story with so many emotions, but I found the greatest beauty in the writing itself. Brashares has a talent for creating characters and relationships that are not only relatable, they are insightful as well, and for telling a story of summer that is just perfect to read on a winter’s day.

November / December 2008

AUTUMN’S UPON US AS BOATERS IN SOUNDS CAST THEIR LINES TO THE TREASURES THEY’VE FOUND IN A SEASON OF MEMORIES WITH FAMILIES SO NEAR GOOD FRIENDS AT OUR SIDE WE REMARK AND DO CHEER AS WE TIE UP IN COVES FOR THE LAST TIME THIS YEAR WE GIVE THANKS AS WE TOAST HER WITH VERY GOOD REASON TO NATURE FOR HOSTING HER TALENTED 2008 SEASON! HAPPY HOLIDAYS UNTIL NEXT YEAR

Lee Labiento Long Island Yacht Club Babylon Village, New York

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Day Tripper

West Hampton Beach

Westhampton Beach is an incorporated village that traces its history back to 1666, when it was known as “Ketchaboneck”. Linked in most visitors’ minds with the greater Westhampton area, though actually part of the Town of Southampton, this three square mile area is exclusive and unique enough to stand out on its own as a destination. Boaters should head to Westhampton Beach by heading northwest to Moniebogue Creek from Quantuck Bay. Whether you approach Quantuck Bay from the west through Quantuck Canal or from the east through Quogue Canal, you will need to pass under a bridge with a maximum vertical clearance of 10’ or 15’ respectively. Both bridges are manned and can be raised to accommodate boats that require greater clearances (instructions on how to radio the bridge operator are posted near each bridge). While not always identified on the chart, Moniebogue Creek runs northwest, and once in the creek you should see the Village Marina & Yacht Basin. The Westhampton Beach Village Marina has transient space available for vessels up to 55’ (631-288-1654 or VHF Channel 68). From there, it’s a very short walk to the Main Street shopping area, with about 50 shops, including O’Suzanna’s home store, Sugar Daddy’s toy store, Tricia’s Gallery for beautiful and innovative art, Garcia for fashions and jewelry, and multiple Shock stores offering everything from clothing to ice cream. When your shopping bags are full but you’re still hungry, the Margarita Grill or Village Eatery can fill you up, followed by a stop at Main Street Sweets or the Beach Bakery. Westhampton Beach was named “Tree City USA”. A one hour, self-guided tree walk of about two miles starts in the village parking lot on Main Street & Mill Road, and leads you past over 30 different types of labeled trees (a walking map can be printed from the Village website link at the end of this story). Summer visitors on Thursday evenings can catch the concert series on the Village Green in July & August, and kids programs are offered early Tuesday evenings. But any time of the year, the Westhampton Beach

Boating Times

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Performing Art Center houses both a cinema and a main stage that features children and adult shows and performers, such as k.d. lang on May 2, 2009. Tuthill House Museum, a circa 1800’s house with changing exhibits and early area photographs, is run by the Westhampton Beach Historical Society, and open weekends (631-288-1139). If modern living interests you, and you have a local tour-guide or have made prior arrangements, drive along Dune Road to see examples of expensive modernist and postmodernist architecture, plus two beautiful beaches, Rogers Beach and Lashley Beach. Both Rogers and Lashley Beaches have residency restrictions requiring visitor permits. However, the Cupsogue Beach County Park on Dune Road (631-852-8111) allows anyone access with a Suffolk County GreenKey (631-854-4949). At this 296 acre barrier beach, day trippers may swim, scuba dive, and see the nesting areas of the piping plover and least tern. Food is also available. And if you couldn’t get a good look at the gorgeous Westhampton Beach architecture while on land, use your return voyage from this day trip to do some serious home gazing from the water. Sites of interest: www.westhamptonbeach.org, www.whbcc.com,www.whbhistorical.org/, www.whbpac.org, www.co.suffolk.ny.us/departments/parks.aspx

All photos courtesy of www.westhamptonbeach.org

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November / December 2008

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Boating Times

Long Island

Know How To Row Before You Go! by Sam Mines We tried different rowing combinations: Steve and me, then Brandon and me, then Steve and Brandon. As the combos were all unsuccessful, we decided to let Brandon take over by himself. He didn’t disappoint us with his skills: he maneuvered us back from the edge of the channel (mere inches away from boats flying by) and rowed us back towards the family boat. As we rowed closer, almost everyone aboard the big boat cheered us on, though my sister wanted to start the engines and leave us behind. She would have had the time to make a getaway, because the rowing got tough and Brandon had to take a few breaks. In the end, Brandon was not only able to get us back to the boat successfully, but just in time for lunch! I was grateful for someone with his rowing prowess, because a few weeks back I had been in the inflatable without an engine and neither my friend nor I could really figure out the right way to use the oars. I learned that I shouldn’t have ventured out without knowing how to row back, and that it is also good to pay attention when in shallow water with a small engine. We had fun, but to avoid being the punch line to a potentially bad joke, make sure you always take a good rower with you.

id you hear the one about three guys getting stuck in Lloyd Harbor after engine failure? No joke: we were drifting out farther and farther into the channel, getting closer and closer to quick moving boats… To start at the beginning: my friends Brandon, Steve and I got off my parents’ boat in Lloyd Harbor and into an 8’ inflatable with an engine. We headed for a beach to chill out on and found a nice small one with just a few people and a small roped-off area for swimming. At the back of the roped-off area was a small floating dock completely covered in seagull poop, which was not too inviting a place to hang out. We quickly left, but as we didn’t want to return to the big boat yet we decided to swing around the lighthouse before starting out on what would become our fateful journey home. One moment, everything was going well. We were just having fun, laughing and checking out boats while listening to the comfortable hum of our motor running. The next moment, Brandon pointed out something, I got distracted, and by not paying attention, I ran the engine across some rocks and broke the motor. We knew as we drifted further out that it would not be a quick journey back! We radioed my Dad back at the boat and he said he was willing to bring the larger boat to come get us, but we (foolishly) told him we decided we would rather row.

Boating Times

Long Island

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November / December 2008

It All Ends Up In The Water Vicki asks "How Many People Can Fit in a Boat?" That's a very good question,Vicki, because overloading a small boat is a very dangerous thing to do. Luckily, there are some federal regulations helping to protect you. Boat builders must comply with Federal law by putting a Capacity Plate in sight of the helm (steering area) on motorized boats less than 20 feet in length. This plate displays three important items: the maximum weight of persons on board in pounds, the maximum carrying weight of the vessel in pounds and the maximum horsepower recommended for the boat. If you own a boat that was built prior to the Federal law mandating capacity plates, or have a homemade boat, the following formulas can be used to determine safe loading capacity

Water is the most valuable substance on Earth, even though it makes up 71 percent of the Earth’s surface. Water serves two purposes in our everyday lives: we use it for bathing and for consumption. It is also an easily contaminated liquid, and since less than one percent of our water supply is usable for these purposes, it becomes even more valuable. Water conservation plays an important role because we have a limited supply of freshwater available. Saving water around the house, such as turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, is a step in the right direction. Much of our water comes from natural sources such as rivers, so conserving also involves not contaminating these sources with substances like oil, litter and cigarette butts. Something to keep in mind is that “it all ends up in the water”; anything put down street drains eventually ends up in a natural body of water without being treated. When it rains, anything from the streets will also be washed down the drain as well, including oil from cars, hazardous chemicals, pet waste and trash. We also need to be careful about what gets flushed down our toilets. Household hazardous waste, including unused medications and oil, should never be dumped into toilets or drains. Every time you swim, bathe and play in a natural body of water (river, ocean, etc.), you are affected by both the natural condition of the water as well as any materials that have been dumped into it. To learn more about beach water quality, visit Earth 911’s sister site http://beaches911.org

Remember that you need to keep everything in the boat balanced - this includes people, pets, coolers, etc. Even if your boat has the capacilty to carry a few people and a few coolers filled with soda, you don't want everyone sitting together on one side. You should also secure your gear, so it doesn't all slide to one side if a boat passing you creates a wake or you become unbalanced for some reason. Also, in a small boat, it is best to remain low and toward the center.

Reprinted from http://earth911.org

NOT JUST KNOTS! Unscramble the words below:

1. OELNSIWB__________

5.CALSET_____________

2. THIECSH____________

6.USLLPEY____________

3. OTSNK______________

7. IENHTTG____________

4. SONELO____________ Courtesy www.boatsafekids.com Answer Key on page 35

November / December 2008

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Boating Times

Long Island

Blue Water, Green Boat SELLING YOUR BOAT? GREEN UP TO CLEAN UP At the recent Tobay Boat Show, I met some interesting people. Among them was Bob, who after many years has decided to sell his boat and spend next summer “hanging out on my friends’ boats instead”. Then there was Jim, who told me his wife was insisting that he sell his small boat so they can “move up to get a real cabin and a real head”. Both these men, along with countless other boat owners who want to sell, can take steps to make their boats appear more attractive to potential buyers during tough economic times, while protecting their health, local waters, and our environment. 1. Thoroughly clean all canvas with products such as Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds www.drbronner.com. 2. Clean, polish, and shine the interior and exterior with green and natural products such as Mary Moppins’ RenewzIt (www.goclean.com) or Simple Green Stainless Steel OneStep Cleaner & Polish (www.simplegreen.com). A possible buyer that sees a dirty vessel with a “for sale” sign may jump to the conclusion that layers of grime indicate the boat has not been well maintained. 3. A dirty bilge is a huge turn-off to buyers. Try a product like NavalKleen, available from www.dawginc.com to banish the bilge of contaminants and other crud. 4. Make the head sparkle with baking soda or Riptide 3 in 1 Toilet Cleaner www.riptideproducts.com 5. Does the boat have any lingering “aromas” from your summer adventures? Rent a steam cleaner and clean carpets and cushions, but don’t use most of the recommended products. Instead, clean the machine thoroughly first with hot water and then use a natural liquid dish soap or all-purpose solution made with essential plant oils, such as the herbal formula from www.ecover.com.

Boating Times

Long Island

6. Despite your scrubbing and steaming, does the boat still smell musty or damp? After cleaning and drying everything on board thoroughly, leave behind a deodorizer like Fresh Wave Continuous Release Crystals and a mold and mildew preventor like Caframo Stor-Dry Dehumidifier (both available at www.greenboatstuff.com). 7. Stock your supply cabinet with green cleaners and sponges (like Trader Joe’s Pop-Up Sponges made from cellulose) to show off your environmental consciousness to possible purchasers. 8. “Stage” a boat like you would a home. Remove all the non-essential clutter and all your personal items. If the salon has removable furniture or the deck has fold-up chairs and a table, bring almost everything home. This way a buyer will see lots more salon and deck space and imagine her own friends or family filling it up next summer. Multiple green cleaners may also be found at your local marine retailers. Please keep in mind that just because a marine supply store or website has a “green” section, or a label says a product is “natural”, you should not automatically accept the product as environmentally safe and good to use. The consumer has to make a determination after reading the product’s contents. Finally, advertising your boat as “clean and green” is not a substitute for making sure all mechanical components are in good working order, wiring is done properly, and that you have receipts to document all repairs. Check the US Coast Guard website www.uscgboating.org/ SAFETY/fedreqs/equipment.htm to make sure all safety equipment such as lights and horns are up to date and operating.

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November / December 2008

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Boating Times

Long Island

From Our Readers To the Editor: As a follow up to the “So You Want To Be A Captain?” story (October 2008), young men and women who are planning to go to college and have always had a dream of becoming a charter boat captain have an opportunity to pick the right college and wind up fulfilling two dreams in one. Located at historic Fort Schuyler in the Throgs Neck section of the Bronx is the State University of New York Maritime College, where students can get a great education, study engineering or biology, and graduate with the additional benefit of having a captain’s license.

at Maritime. This is quite a bonus in addition to an education that can provide students with an engineering degree or enable them to finish college and then begin a career that in some cases enable them to become captain of a major cruise ship or other ocean-going vessel. Taking a position within the maritime industry is not mandatory, as many of the graduates take positions as facilities engineers, operating heating plants skyscrapers, which are essentially the same as the power plants in many of the modern vessels that sail the great oceans.

There are many advantages of attending SUNY Maritime, not the least of which is an almost guarantee you will be placed in a high paying position within a few months.

The annual cruises take place aboard the 556-foot Empire State VI, a training ship that is the pride and joy of the School. Anyone wishing to learn more about this college can easily check it out at SUNYMaritime.edu.

There are two divisions among the student body; one is a regimented division and the other non-regimented. In either case, the accompanying education is very modestly priced, compared to other college tuitions, at about $20,000 annually. For many of the students, this annual tuition covers a summer cruise to several ports of call three times during their tenure

Captain Richard Miranda The writer, author of “So You Want To Be A Captain?” was formerly Director of College Relations at SUNY Maritime. The October article on page 8 requires the following corrections: the Coast Guard’s correct website address is www.uscg.mil,and the years in the third paragraph should be three.

Dear Editor: As a public service I am passing a few excellent boating gift ideas to you for the holidays: First item is the “Bore No More” game set. This electronic marvel plugs into your GPS and allows you to set the boat on auto throttle and play video games on the GPS screen as you cruise home. You’ll no longer be bored by having to stay alert and keep watch; you can play games all the way home. You will find the “Bore No More” at Shurto Crash Electronics, for only $139.95. A very useful device is the “Always Right” navigation guide. For boaters without charts or compasses, this simple felt circle attaches onto the middle of the steering wheel. It points an arrow in the direction of travel and indicates left at the 3:00 and right at the 9:00 positions. When you return home, you flip the “Always Right” over and it reverses the right and left. This way, if a hazard was on your right as you left your dock, the “Always Right “ will show it still on the right when you return. This eliminates that confusion that exists from hazards and channels being on the right when you leave and on the left when you return! Find it at the Miss D’Channel Marine store for $29.95.

My favorite is the “Thump-O Meter”. This accessory works through a calibrated load cell that attaches to the pickup of your depth finder. This unique device senses the force from any object your boat hits, and the software converts the signal into a digital read out on your depth finder screen. The sensitivity of the software is good enough to differentiate between a beer can, crab pot, or another boat so you no longer have to wonder what you hit or take the troublesome time to turn around and check. You can continue merrily on your way at full speed and never look back—heck, you wouldn’t even have to stop playing games on the “Bore No More”. I found this gift at the Get Touta Miway Gift Shop for $119.95. I am sure at least one of my gift suggestions is appropriate for someone you’ve seen behave this way on the water! But in all seriousness, I have a better idea: why not treat boaters to a United States Power Squadrons’ Safe Boating Class and eliminate the need for further shopping? This is a singular gift that will benefit not only the recipient, but all of the other boaters on the water. Bill Hempel Assistant Safety Officer for the Peace River Power Squadron, Member of the USPS National Marketing Committee billmarl@comcast.net

Hi Lita: I picked up your magazine at the Tobay boat show – it looks better then ever! Many good articles that we can relate to with the focus on boating around LI. Richard Colefield, Oakdale

Boating Times

Long Island

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November / December 2008

Restaurant Review

Catfish Max 3671 Naomi Street • Seaford Harbor 516-679-2020 • www.catfishmax.com Catfish Max is an enticing place for boaters to drop in and dine. Located minutes from the Great South Bay on Seaman’s Creek (Tideway River), with dock space available for “four-five boats on the deeper side of the canal” per the restaurant, a meal here will offer some unexpected pleasures. Truth be told, our evening didn’t start well. The air was a bit nippy so we sat indoors, though the deck overlooking the canal was enticing. Seated at a window with the same scenic view of the creek and boats, the lighting was so subdued that the six of us actually had to pass around the oil lamp on the table to read the menu. The waitress quipped that everyone must need reading glasses, then admitted that “we’ve had complaints about the light”. Water was slow to arrive, even after a second request, and less rolls in a basket than diners were reluctantly replenished 15 minutes later. The waitress was advised that we had called before arriving and told the chef would be happy to make a vegan meal, and wondered what was offered? She curtly replied that the meal would be plain pasta and broccoli rabe.

special, bison burgers, accompanied by crispy french fries, was declared “very tasty”. Vegetarians who ordered a pasta dish with marinara sauce disagreed on that sauce, one finding it delicious and the other “way too sweet”. Before the entrees arrived, the waitress semi-apologetically returned to say that the chef was actually happy to make a vegan portobello mushroom napoleon, and the dish she returned with was excellent: large mushroom caps layered with chopped tomatoes and greens, covered in crunchy breadcrumbs and flavored with a balsamic vinegar reduction. Other entrees included jambalaya, oven baked or blackened catfish, and steaks and chicken. Desserts were reasonable priced and many diners happily indulged.

But then the tide turned, and the kitchen started showing off its talent. Chopped salads were bountiful and tastily dressed in champagne vinaigrette. Other appetizers included a raw bar of Great South Bay clams and Blue Point oysters, crab cakes, escargot and baked goat cheese salad.

Many dinner appetizers are also offered at lunch, along with fried oyster Po’ Boys, grilled chicken tortilla or grilled portobello & eggplant wraps, grilled ahi tuna burgers, and the fresh seafood platter. Whether you choose to dine during the day on the deck alongside your boat or arrive in the evening (bring your own flashlight), you’ll surely enjoy the view and the comfy surroundings, and be rewarded when the kitchen captain and crew create some memorable cuisine.

“Jumbo Stuffed Shrimp” were just that, and the broiled seafood platter was large and deliciously prepared. A menu

SHRINKWRAP YOUR BOAT

Call for special pricing

November / December 2008

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Boating Times

Long Island

Don’t Do What I Did! by Barry Mines, Publisher

n the 1970’s, standard equipment on an average boat included a VHF radio, compass, depth finder, horn, bell and running lights. While radar existed, the average size boat didn’t have it, and technologies such as GPS, autopilots, chart plotters and other electronics designed to help boaters navigate safely didn’t yet exist. In fact, the most valuable piece of equipment a boat owner would have on board wasn’t technological at all; rather, it was a paper chart. The reality was that even if you didn’t have good visibility, a captain could use a paper chart and a depth finder and be able to navigate a boat. In 1976, my boat was a 24’ Revelcraft cabin cruiser with a single screw that cruised at 18 knots that I kept on a mooring in Oyster Bay. One nice August day, my parents and I decided to take the boat to Connecticut. Our plan was to leave Oyster Bay around 11AM, head over to Cos Cob and Greenwich, cruise around, and then head back home. However, by the time launch service took us to the boat and we uncovered it and got underway, it was close to Noon. Oyster Bay is a beautiful harbor. Exiting the harbor from the mooring field you will pass by some of the nicest coastline on Long Island with views of the opulent homes of the rich and famous. As we headed due north to Connecticut the Long Island Sound was very calm, with no winds and good visibility, so within 30 minutes we were approaching the coastline. As with Long Island’s north shore, Connecticut has many interesting areas to view, so we spent about an hour cruising before we decided to head back. As we headed back towards Long Island, my dad had control of the boat. He turned us 180 degrees opposite from the direction we took coming across and accelerated. It became hazy and before we knew it, we were in the middle of the Sound, engulfed in heavy fog (all of us on board were

amazed just how fast we got caught up in this). Immediately my dad reduced our speed to 5 knots and continued on the same heading he was tracking before getting caught up in the fog. I was assigned to ring the bell. Questions entered my mind as we found ourselves caught in fog: should we turn around, drop anchor, or simply keep going? I knew making the best decision is often colored by where you are at the time, and being out in the middle of the Sound certainly narrowed the options. Did we even have enough line to simply drop anchor and wait until the fog cleared? And I wondered, if we anchored in the middle, were we a target waiting to be hit by some other boater? But if we continued back to Long Island, would the fog hang on and make us more likely to end up hitting someone else’s boat or snag a lobster pot? And were we actually heading home? We decided to continue heading very slowly back to what we hoped was Oyster Bay, but let me tell you that running a boat without knowing what is in front of you is certainly nerve wracking. Maintaining our course, we continued our crossing back to Long Island, and the trip seemed to take forever. Little by little, we crept forward; forty-five minutes elapsed since we got caught up in the fog, and still there was no sight of Long Island. Ten long minutes later, the fog started to clear, and a few minutes after that we spotted land off in the distance. Soon we had full visibility and we figured out that we were heading directly towards the entrance to Oyster Bay, right on course! When the air near the ground is four to five degrees above the dew point, water vapor condenses and becomes visible as fog. There are many types of fog, varying in degrees of intensity and classified according to the particular phenomena which causes it. Fog can form whenever the contributing conditions are favorable, and in instances can Continued on page 29

Boating Times

Long Island

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November / December 2008

Day Tripper North Hempstead Beach Park Tucked in the south part of Hempstead Harbor at Bar Beach is North Hempstead Beach Park. Bar Beach is in the south part of the harbor.This is typically a calm place to drop anchor and spend a day relaxing. In addition to the beach, the park has a concession stand offering food and beverages. The park also provides restroom facilities. There is a small dock approachable with your inflatable if you want to use the facilities. Every Sunday afternoon during the summer the Town of North Hempstead offers a free concert at North Hempstead Beach. The stage faces the water so most boaters not only hear the music but also have a wonderful view of the performers. Last summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven concerts included a Four Seasons Tribute Band, a Motown Revue, along with rock and country performances. The 2009 concert series should be available in March /April; for further information call Hempstead Parks and Recreation at 516-327-3110.

Visit www.boatingtimesli.com and then select Nav Tool to view a trip route to North Hempstead Beach Park

marina 411 AQUA MARINA

BRICK COVE MARINA

55 Hudson Avenue, Freeport

1760 Sage Blvd., Southold

516-543-4474

631-477-0830

www.aquamarinaworldwide.com

www.brickcove.com

MONITOR VHF CHANNEL

N/A

TOTAL SLIPS

140

TRANSIENT SLIPS

$3/foot/daily

$2.50/foot/night

LOW WATER DEPTH

10'

ELECTRICAL (AMPS)

30 / 50

30/50/250

MOORINGS

TRAVELIFT

YES

GAS AVAILABLE

NEARBY

DIESEL AVAILABLE

NEARBY

HAUL OUT

YES

LAUNCH RAMP

YES

PUMP OUT

YES

ENGINE REPAIR SERVICE

YES

HULL REPAIR SERVICE

YES

MARINE STORE

YES

RESTAURANT

SHOWERS

YES

LAUNDRY

YES

ICE

YES

WiFi

YES

POOL

YES

GREEN MARINA

YES

Working on it

Full service marina

Beach; clean, quiet, tucked away location on Southold Bay; across from Shelter Island

NAME OF MARINA ADDRESS TELEPHONE WEBSITE

COSTS OF TRANSIENT SPACE

OTHER AMENITIES, GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF MARINA

All information supplied by individual marinas is believed to be accurate at the time of publication. Please verify all information at the time of your visit.

Boating Times

Long Island

Don’t Do What I Did! Continued from page 26

SEAFORD HARBOR MARINA

WILLIS MARINE CENTER

2849 Ocean Avenue, Seaford

17 Mill Dam Road Huntington

516-781-9352

631-421-3400

N/A

info@willismarine.com

N/A

100

NONE

N/A

$3.00 per foot

4’

10’

30 / 50

YES

Working on it

In and out rack storage, PWC and jet boat service

Protected harbor, good restaurants and town nearby

extend to great heights and persist for days or even weeks. Ground fog occurs when the dew point and the temperature are within a few degrees of each other. Along sea coasts, fog often forms over the ocean and then is blown inland, but regardless of origin, all types of fog produce low visibility and constitute a serious boating hazard. Even with technological advances such as radar, GPS, and autopilots, suddenly getting caught in fog can make for an unpleasant and unsafe experience for everyone on board. And while radar will pick up most vessels around you, it won’t pick up everything in the water, leaving you vulnerable to striking small rowboats without an engine or lobster pots, resulting in property damage or much worse. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security thinking that having a full array of electronics on board assures you’ll get home safely. You need to be fully knowledgeable on how all of your equipment works and have plenty of practical experience. Even if you are fully adept on operating your electronics every boater still needs to know how to navigate using a paper chart. Electronics may fail, but paper charts won’t. Finally, checking weather in advance of making any trip is also advisable. If the forecast seems “iffy”, you may want to rethink how far and where you plan on heading.

www.boat-

Boating Times

TM TM

Long Long Island Island

0 29

Trailer Times NAME

MILL DAM MARINA RAMP

INWOOD MARINA

Mill Dam Road, Huntington

Bayswater Boulevard, Inwood

Dock Road, East Islip

Daniel Lord Road, Shelter Island

8:30 AM-8:00 PM

24 hours

Dawn-Dusk

24 hours

Residents $25/vehicle + $25/vessel for season, non-residents $20/launch

Free

Resident launching permit $50, good through 2/09

Free

Multi-lane, concrete, docks, ample parking

Single lane concrete, limited trailer parking, wash-down, pump-outs, restrooms, 25’ vessel limit

Single lane concrete, docks, wash-down, 35 trailer spots, 24’ vessel limit

Single lane concrete, small boats only, ample parking

631-351-3089

516-431-9200

631-224-5648

631-749-0291

LOCATION

TIMES

FEES

OTHER INFO

CONTACT

WHERE TO EXPLORE

CHAMPLIN CREEK DOCK DANIEL LORD ROAD RAMP

Huntington Harbor, Jamaica Bay, Atlantic Ocean Champlin Creek, Great Centerport, Northport & points west to Brooklyn South Bay, points west Harbor, Long Island Sound and NYC, points east to to Bay Shore, points east & points west to Oyster Bay, Reynolds Channel, to Oakdale east towards Smithtown Oceanside & Freeport

West Neck Creek, Shelter Island, Noyac Bay, points west to Flanders Bay and Riverhead, south to Sag Harbor, northeast to Greenport

All information, as provided to Boating Times Long Island, is believed to be accurate as of press time. Please call the phone numbers provided to verify before you arrive.

STOP, THIEF! A trailered boat may be tempting to a thief. Here are some suggestions to safeguard your boat: • Purchase & use a hitch lock • Store your boat & trailer in a locked storage unit or garage • If no such storage is available, place your boat & trailer in back yard • If no backyard, park another vehicle in front of trailer & boat

Even if you have taken all precautions, you must also: • Properly insure your boat • Have photographs of the boat and an inventory of all non-removable electronics & equipment, with model & serial numbers • Permanently mark or engrave boat, trailer, equipment & electronics with some identifying info like your name and/or your driver’s license number

• If no other vehicle, have trailer hitch face away from the street • Remove one trailer wheel or part of tongue/hitch • Securely chain/lock boat and trailer to tree or fence post • Never leave removable equipment or gear on board • Cover the boat

Boating Times

Long Island

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November / December 2008

Day Tripper Kismet While Kismet used to be an exclusive â&#x20AC;&#x153;hot singles spotâ&#x20AC;? on Saturday nights, more families are experiencing the village nowadays. Like other Fire Island communities, this town is casual and laid back, with three restaurants, a small market, a playground for children and tennis courts. Kismet is the westernmost town on Fire Island and less than a one mile walk to the Fire Island Lighthouse. Robert Moses Beach is a 15-minute walk as well. Transient space is available at the Kismet Inn (631-583-5592). All 50 slips are available on a first come, first served basis. There is a three tier transient rate based on how long you stay. The daytime rate to 5:00 PM is $60 ($40 of this can be applied to food and drinks at the restaurant), $100 until evening ($75 can be applied to food and drinks) and the overnight rate is $125 ($100 can be applied to food and drinks on the day you arrive, but not to breakfast the next morning). The Kismet Inn restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mondays, lunch and dinner only). There is no electricity or water at the docks, and bathrooms are available in the restaurant.

November / December 2008

Visit www.boatingtimesli.com and then select Nav Tool to view a trip route to Kismet

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Boating Times

Long Island

style

Style & Water Don’t Always Mix by Hayley Mines

hese are precarious financial times, when you want to stretch your wardrobe and make the best use of everything in your closet. But unfortunately, some clothes and accessories should actually be considered as water repellant: not to be worn anywhere, at any time, on board a boat! If you put off my October advice to clean out your closet, you’re in luck, as you can now evaluate some of the things you’ll find hidden at the back to decide how and when you’ll wear them. In other words, say you come across a pair of platform sandals from the ‘70s that your daughter immediately labels as “cool”. If you live on your boat all spring, summer, and fall, let your daughter have the shoes, as platforms, though chic, should never be worn on a boat where maneuvering tight spaces and climbing are routine. With my list in hand, and your lifestyle in mind, let’s look at some more closet finds that, no matter how cool they are, should never be worn on a boat: • The extremely large cuff necklace that is as heavy as it looks. Not only will it leave an odd outline around your neck if you get too much sun, but it will also get extremely hot! • The flowing Marilyn Monroestyle halter dress you bought ages ago, figuring it was timeless (it is). But a timeless fashion doesn’t mean you should plan on wearing it on a boat, unless you would like to walk around having your dress blown above your head (plus you’d have to splurge on great underwear).

• Fight any fashion inclination to wear pantyhose, fishnets, or tights; they might snag and they’ll definitely trap heat. I can’t imagine the awfulness of wearing tights on a boat, in the middle of the summer, sweating and then ripping them on a splinter or sharp edge. • Even worse than a pantyhose / tights fiasco would be wearing leather pants on a boat. Sweat and water and tight leather pants? Yuck! • If you’re thinking stilettos might be better than platform shoes, think again. Wooden piers, fiberglass decks, and small spaces just make teetering on high heels unpleasant and precarious. You’re better off saving your high heels for times not involving dirt, grass, or making small leaps from docks to decks. While going through your closet, you should be making piles of the things to keep, things to toss, and those to donate to charities and other organizations that recycle and reuse gently used clothing. Also remember that charity begins at home, so if you spend all the time you can onboard your boat, maybe your daughter may get more use out of the long flowing scarves and stacks of bangle bracelets you’ve kept at the back of the closet. Just because it looks good doesn’t mean you can wear it on a boat!

Look for the Winter 2009 issue of Boating Times Long Island at the end of January.

Boating Times

Long Island

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November / December 2008

Boat Mentoring aground on a friend’s boat; Bill dropped what he was doing to help them get off the sand bar and back to the dock. This past summer, Ron and Lou wanted to take a trip to Southold and Shelter Island and solicited Bill’s help in planning the trip. Not only did Bill help with the preparation but offered to join them on the trip! “This was the perfect situation to provide them with my experience in navigating,” Bill said. “Not only did both Ron and Lou gain the knowledge of plotting with charts, they both gained the confidence of actually following the course in their boat”. Angela DiRusso, Ron DiRusso, Shannon Camacho, Bill Pasie

After spending childhood summers on his grandfather’s boat, Ron DiRusso knew that someday he wanted to get into boating. Fast-forward many years: Ron and his wife Angela purchased a waterfront home, then along with Ron’s business partner Lou Camacho and his wife Shannon, bought a 2005 Sea Ray 245 weekender last April. Before buying, Ron and Lou took the Coast Guard’s safe boating course, but Ron’s next-door neighbor Bill Pasie provided the practical knowledge that helped them attain a comfort level required to truly enjoy their boat and explore Long Island. Bill was first introduced to boating in 1969 by his wife Lorraine and has owned boats ever since. A Coast Guard Auxiliary member for 20 years, he truly enjoys teaching and helping people, so it was no coincidence that Bill was who Ron reached out to when he became an owner. He’d previously enlisted Bill’s help the year before when Ron ran

Ron added, “This was a very rewarding experience. I’d follow the course on the chart, saw what buoy was coming up next on the chart and confirmed each one as we approached them with the boat… Sometimes the buoys were so far apart that we wouldn’t see one for a while. I stayed on course until I had a visual of that buoy”. Bill gave the new boat owners confidence: “You can’t always rely on electronics such as a GPS. While they rarely fail, navigating with paper charts will never fail”. Next year Ron, Lou and their families plan on taking a longer trip. If you have been a boat mentor for a family member, friend, or new acquaintance, or someone has mentored you, please submit your story to editor@boatingtimesli.com. We’d love to feature your story, also.

LONG ISLAND LOCATIONS: Jamaica Bay Orient Short Beach Port Jefferson Bay Shore Northport Fire Island Oyster Bay Moriches Manhasset Bay Shinnecock City Island

November / December 2008

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E TSS OR N H VE A

November/ December 2008

EOARD &

B ON

NOVEMBER Ongoing, Saturdays & Sundays Family Fun Children’s Maritime Museum of Long Island Port Jefferson 1:00-5:00 PM $5.00 per child, must be accompanied by adult 631-331-3277 or www.childrensmaritimemuseum.org Sunday, November 9 Nature Scavenger Hunt Connetquot River State Park Preserve 10:30 AM-Noon $2.00 per child, Pre-registration required 631-581-1072 Tuesday, November 11, 2008 Film n’ Fun Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum Design an under-the-sea craft and watch “The Little Mermaid” Free popcorn and drinks! 2:00 P.M. 631-367-3418 Wednesday, November 12 USPS Boat Smart Course William Rall School 761 N. Wellwood Ave, Lindenhurst 7:30 PM Fee for materials 631-242-6117 or pwrbtr@aol.com Saturday, November 15 US Coast Guard Boating SafetyCourse Massapequa Library Anne Sylvan 516-797-8730 Light Keepers Behind the Scenes Tour Fire Island Lighthouse, 4640 Captree Island 9:00 AM $10 per person – reservations required, limit 12 people 631-661-4876 or www.fireislandlighthouse.com Evening Lighthouse Tower Tour Fire Island Lighthouse, 4640 Captree Island 4:00 PM $10 per person – reservations required 631-661-4876 or www.fireislandlighthouse.com

Sunday, November 16 Folk Singer & Chantyman Alan Short sings and shares stories Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum 2:30 PM General admission, free to members 631-367-3418 Tuesday, November 18 USPS America’s Boating Course Memorial Junior High School Fletcher & Hendrickson Avenues, Valley Stream 7:45 PM 516-293-7773 or HBPSEDU@att.net Saturday, November 22 Sea Turtle Cold Stun Lecture Beach-walkers sought to search for sea turtles in need of help Group for the East End, Southold 6:00 PM Prior registration is required 631-369-9840 or www.riverheadfoundation.org Sunday, November 23 Patchogue Boat Parade Boats decorated for the holidays, plus Santa floating in Fire Island National Seashore 120 Laurel Street, Patchogue 6:00 PM Free 631-289-4810 Saturday, November 29 Tree Trimming Event Fire Island Lighthouse, 4640 Captree Island Bring a handmade ornament relating to the sea, nature or the Lighthouse to hang on the tree Free hot chocolate and cookies 631-661-4876 or www.fireislandlighthouse.com Healthy Bodies, Healthy Bays Hike through nature trails with educators, observing local wildlife; quick beach clean up Indian Island County Park Route 105, Riverhead Meet in parking lot across from the first bath pavilion 10:30-11:30 AM or 1:00-2:00 PM Plastic bags will be provided 631- 727-7850 or www.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk

DECEMBER Friday, December 5 Adult Night Hike Connetquot River State Park Preserve 7:30-9:30 PM $3.00 per adult. Pre-registration required 631-581-1072 Saturday, December 13Sunday, December 21 New York City Boat Show http://www.nyboatshow.com/ Saturday, December 13 6th Annual Reenactment of the Flying Santa Fire Island Lighthouse 4640 Captree Island Noon Free 631-661-4876 or www.fireislandlighthouse.com NYS Safe Boating Class 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 PM Babylon $60.00 516-216-4410 or www.safeboatingnewyork.com Monday December 29 & Tuesday, December 30 Pirate Camp Games, crafts, and hidden treasure to explore Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum 10:00 AM- Noon Ages 7- 10 Call by December 1st for details and cost 631-367-3418 Wednesday, December 31 Mad Scientist Laboratory Conduct experiments using household items Caleb Smith State Park Preserve 1:30-3:00 PM $2.00 per child, ages 7 and up Pre-registration required 631-265-1054

Attention non-profit and community organizations: Boating Times Long Island would appreciate receiving notice of events of interest to boaters by the 10th of the month previous to your event date. Please e-mail editor@boatingtimesli.com

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November / December 2008

classifieds 2008 19' Coral Bay, 4 stroke 115hp. Yamaha engine, aluminum trailer. $24,000 631 598-3938 ask for John

1988 34’ SEA RAY EXPRESS, excellent condition, T-454 FWC Mercruisers, 6.5 KW Onan FWC GENSET, Radar, GPS, AC/Heat, Ice Maker, Central Vacuum, Full Galley, Loaded, Must See and Drive, Recently surveyed at $55K., Slip for 2008 included. No reasonable offer refused. Will consider trade for smaller boat. Asking $32,000. Call Joe 516-971-6317 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Excellent condition, Cream color with 32,000 miles, Automatic, Power Locks, Power Windows, Cruise Control, Driver & Passenger Airbags, Glass Rear Window, AM/FM and CD Player, Leather Interior, plus a lot more. Price negotiable. Call 631-682-6551

Safe Boating Courses, FREE Vessel Safety Checks and More, from America’s Boating Club®, the United States Power Squadrons®. With 18 squadrons around Long Island, there’s one near you. Visit WeBoatSafe.org or call 1-800341-8777 for more information. The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor is 2009 16' SUPERBOAT, New, Starting a not-for-profit environmental at $9,999 education center focused on Long Island’s various freshwater environments. Members receive “Fish Hatchery News”, enjoy free admission for one year, and reduced program fees for chil21' SUPERBOAT 2008 5.0L Merc I/O dren. Call 516-692-6768 or visit 60MPH - New Warranty $29,999.00 www.cshfha.org/membership.ht NY Boating Safety: At NYBoating Safety.com our goal is to provide the recreational boater with the highest quality boating safety education. To register, call 24' SUPERBOAT 1976 2001 -250hp Phil at 516-909-0784 or email EFI Merc - New Interior $9999.00 NYboatingsafety@aol.com Purchasing or refinancing a home? Call QUALITY FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS. Mortgage Broker NY & NJ Banking Departments. Loans arranged through third party providers. 30' SUPERBOAT 2009 DF300hp Suzuki 6143 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, New Boat / 65mph $79,999.00 NY. 631-499-7200

November / December 2008

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Selling A Boat or A House On The Water (Or Anything Else)? You won’t find any group more interested in boating than our readers, and that is what makes a classified advertisement in Boating Times Long Island perfect to reach thousands in our magazine and on-line. All listings will pop with our four-color ads, provided at no additional charge! Let our sales department help you create the perfect ad. Call 631-805-9040 ext. 17 or classified@boatingtimesli.com

NOT JUST KNOTS!

Answer Key 1. OELNSIWB is BOWLINES. 2. THIECSH is HITCHES. 3. OTSNK is KNOTS. 4. SONELO is LOOSEN. 5. CALSET is CLEATS. 6. USLLPEY is PULLEYS. 7. IENHTTG is TIGHTEN.

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