Pump Out Observation

[Rick D]

On my way to Catalina, I happen to notice as I passed by one of the pump out piers that I have never seen a commercial boat use one. Specifically, crew boats, service boats, fish boats, tour boats, etc. They are not too big to use the pier, running 35-80 feet. I assume ferries pump out over three miles as do the fish boats. Some of the larger dinner boats probably go out to dump, although I have never seen them. The crew boats and service boats are in the harbor or anchorages 99% of the time, but I have never seen them there. Maybe there is an exemption or a treatment allowed (although no-discharge for pleasure boats)? Just musing.

 

[LuzSD]

Based on the couple times we have had to request it ourselves and the fact that we had live aboards around us that never left their slips (4+ years at least) I would guess that the boats you are talking about use a service that comes regularly to them. I know when I called them I was given a monthly rate and a one time rate which made me realize this service is used by many!! That's my guess.

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Commercial vessels are subject to MARPOL regulations...for instance, they have be at least 12 miles offshore to dump their tanks. However, in most large cities or any place big enough to have sewers, there are sewer hookups in the berths used by dinner boats and other large commercial vessels...they connect when they come in, same as they connect to power and water and have their own onboard "macerator" pumps to empty their tanks. I suspect that's what these boats are doing.

 

[windward54]

Rick, you should check out our new digs. There is a pump out connection every five slips. Makes flushing a breeze.

Have fun at Catalina.

 

[LuzSD]

Rick, you should check out our new digs. There is a pump out connection every five slips. Makes flushing a breeze.

Have fun at Catalina.

I hear about those upgraded docks alot lately, I am so jealous!

 

[Stu Jackson]

Rick, you should check out our new digs. There is a pump out connection every five slips. Makes flushing a breeze.

Karl,

How does that work? Are the pump out hoses simply long enough to go 2 1/2 docks away so that everryone within reach can use the pump out?

 

[windward54]

There is a hose hookup right across from my boat. I just go to the office and get a cart with hose. The hose is about 70 feet long and will streach across several docks. The actual pump is right next to the gangway.

As I come down the gangway, I hit the button and start the suction. The equipment will run for 20 minutes. I head for the boat, and hook up the hose. Then I connect to the boat, and open the valve. Very simple and really keeps people from illegally dumping.