Still On Alert

[Bob]

Was out sailing last Saturday afternoon, on Lake Michigan, looking out over the beautiful Chicago skyline.While monitoring channel 16, the USCG announces that no one is allowed by the Navy Pier Water Infiltration site or to anchor in what is loving called "The Play Pen" (this is an area we all go to anchor and swim that is close to a beach that overlooks the city and is very close to shore) There is also limited boat traffic allowed on the inner city river system.WOW! It was a bit unnerving to witness boats being pulled over and told to leave a specific area. Unfortunately, it's still everywhere we look. At least NOW, we're looking!BobS/V "Never Say Never" p.s. Geez, even our boat name says it all!

 

[Tim Leighton]

RESTRICTED ZONES EVERYWHERE

Bob, et.al.: By executive order, there is an exclusion zone around/near all military vessels (Navy, Army, CG, USNS, etc.) of 500 YARDS. The zone is in effect until next summer. The CG/local law enforcement will enforce these zones. In addition, if you sail in areas with a large military concentration (like I do in Norfolk) and want to enter a military marina, you MUST contact the local harbor control (usually on Ch 14) or CG to obtain permission. This is no different really than the procedures used to enter any "foreign" port, but is obviously new to us in the US. Having said that, I called the Norfolk port control the other day after a week sailing up the Chesapeake Bay (and after being told by a CG cutter the procedure) and the tower controller didn't seem to know why I was calling and simply granted permission. Suspect this is an example of one hand not talking to another. For those of you who will be cruising near moored/anchored military vessels, stay well clear and if in doubt, call the CG or port control. It may save you a lot of trouble later! Smooth Sailing.Tim (S/V "TIDE")