posted 07-27-2007 12:19 PM ET (US)        

I know many would like to do the St John's river and so would I but that would be up to Janis to coordinate so if you want Janis...pipe in. I would love to get the houseboat/hotel thingy and go see some springs.

We can revisit or modify any of our past rendezvous as well. Maybe Crystal river instead of Homasasa for example.

Lastly if nobody is interested in the above...Ft Lauderdale? We can ALL stay at Smitty's, his place is like a hotel ;) Actually Smitty knows the area better than anyone and there is tons of stuff to do but it is expensive for hotels on the water or even dockage. We would HAVE to do it before the slow speed zones kick in.

So far we have done Sarasota(every year), Bradenton(every weekend), St Pete/shell key (3 times), Tarpon springs/New Port Richey, Homasasa springs(fun), Stump pass/Boca grande area, Kice island/Naples area, Stuart(evey year), Suwannee river, St John's river, Ft Lauderdale.

posted 07-27-2007 06:54 PM ET (US)            

Great idea. It so happens that Joy and I will have the Temptation in Satellite Beach from August 11 thru about September 7th or so. Would love to get in a rendezvous then.

I will also ping Janis about the St Johns River as we would REALLY love to run up (or down) that with some friends.

Thanks,

posted 07-27-2007 07:53 PM ET (US)         

Ace - I am here in JAX free starting 17 August through Labor Day weekend. Maybe we could get together?

I need to leave 4 SEP for extended out of town business, as discussed last we met. If not a formal rendevous, perhaps we could meet and boat on your way back to Charleston.

Really disappointed the Beaufort SC event is at end of Sept...timing of all 2007 BW events couldn't have been worse for me personally.

posted 07-29-2007 09:30 AM ET (US)            

Here is the houseboat place: www.hontoon.com expensive though about 100 per person per day for a moveable houseboat, they do have one that does not move for 300/night, sleeps 8.

I'l research more for that hotel I stayed in. I have some papers somewhere about it. But going fishing right now.

posted 07-29-2007 05:22 PM ET (US)         

Are we talking more than a day trip with an overnight hotel stay or multi-day cruising? I have heard of some folks going up the St. Johns and back south down the ICW through St Augustine ending in Daytona.

There's a myriad of possibiities there is so much water to travel and sights to see.

posted 08-01-2007 03:43 PM ET (US)         

Timing... I can make it through Labor Day weekend, but then duty calls...hope the dates work out. I will be really bummed out to miss one on my home turf.

posted 08-01-2007 09:31 PM ET (US)            

From mid-October until mid-December we will be in Tom Clark's and glein's neck of the woods, the Pacific Northwest, specifically Seattle and Whidbey Island. Can't tow the boat that far 'cause we'll be using a rental for the trip.

For the St John's, let's make it a two-day trip!

Standing by . . .

WhalerAce

posted 08-02-2007 05:57 PM ET (US)         

I propose St. John's rendevous from 24-26 August. Recommend rendevous out of Fleming Island, approximately 25 miles south of downtown Jacksonville and 35 miles north of Palatka.

I booked a block of 10 rooms (8 king bed/2 Double Queen)under "Gulf Coast Boston Whalers Owners Assoc." at a group rate of $85/night for 2 night stay. Hotel POC is Leigh Ann at (904) 215-8900. Address is 1815 East West Parkway, Orange Park, FL 32003. This is a new Sleep Inn that opened last January. You need to call in and confirm with a credit card or rooms will be lost.

There are two public boat ramps directly on the St. Johns w/i 2 miles of the hotel. Continental breakfast included and there is also an IHOP and Applebee's directly next door. Boat parking allowed.

This locale affords ability for the adventurous to tour north one day to Jacksonville Landing and south one day to Palatka or for the real adventurous Silver Glen Springs. Silver Glen is really crowded on summer weekends. Might be better to leave that far south for Janice to plan. We did the springs on Suwannee last fall, so I thought there might be interest in a more urban setting with more amenities to drop in on by boat. St. Johns affords opportunity to do a little of both!

posted 08-04-2007 09:22 AM ET (US)         

Trip should be under 3 hours, if you come through Gainesville off I-75 onto Rte 26 to Rte 301 to Rte 16 to Rte 17 from Tampa. I took the family to Busch Gardens this route in reverse. I hope to take my boat to Tampa someday. In fact, I was down at the aquarium and had a 13 whaler tow past me. The harbor area was more commercial than I imagined. Mapquest should recommend this general route from your residence to the hotel address.

posted 08-06-2007 02:54 PM ET (US)         

I also suspect we could have up to 4 JAX locals in addition to myself.

posted 08-06-2007 03:03 PM ET (US)            

Have a good time.

posted 08-06-2007 04:29 PM ET (US)            

Leaving this Sunday for Satellite Beach, with Temptation in tow. See all of y'all in two weeks!

posted 08-10-2007 05:47 PM ET (US)         

So far, I have confirmed following as attending:

FNO
Tohsgib
Whaler Ace and Joy
RJG
Fishgutz
JJAND POP
justwhalin

posted 08-13-2007 10:35 PM ET (US)         

The bar has a neat chart of the River where we can discuss the plan for Saturday. I am open to boating on Sunday as well, but I also realize this might be a travel day back for some.

JJANDPOP is staying at Whitey's in his RV, so he will likely use the boat ramp there on premises. For those staying at Sleep Inn at 1815 East West Parkway, it's off CR 220 and Rte 17, directly behind that American icon, Wal-Mart Supercenter!

You have two ramp choices:

Lakeshore public ramp at 4200-4235 Lakeshore Drive,
2 miles from hotel.
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address& cat=Lakeshore%20Boat%20Ramp&address=%5b4200%2d4235%5d%20Lakeshore%20Dr& city=Orange%20Park&state=FL&zipcode=32003&country=US

or

Doctor's Lake Marina, 3108 Hwy 17, approx 2.25 miles north of hotel. Has ramp, tow tractors and gas dock.

Lakeshore ramp is free, nice restroom, but gets crowded on weekends and is a little more difficult to find nestled in a dense neigborhood. Doctor's Lake Marina has nominal ramp fee, but is easier to find at foot of Doctor's Inlet bridge on Rte 17 at intersection with main stem of St. John's river.

Regardless of ramp chosen, I recommend the bridge as our rendevous point. I would recommend an early launch time to avoid the "boat ramp horror show".

posted 08-14-2007 06:08 AM ET (US)            

Jim and Joan

posted 08-14-2007 03:43 PM ET (US)            

Called Kim at Whaler and she said she would send some small goodies in a bag for us. We just owe her a group picture when done.

Storing the Temptation at the Marina at Patick AFB in Cocoa Beach while down here -- what a BEAUTIFUL place to live and work! How I envy you Floridians!

I hope to take the Whaler plant tour next Thursday afternoon. I did a couple of the tours of the Rockland plant, but have never been able to make it to Edgwater until now.

See y'all next weekend.

posted 08-14-2007 04:38 PM ET (US)         

FYI. For those that have not boated here, recall St Johns is a Northward flowing river, so "up" is down towards Palatka and "down" is toward JAX Landing. Does not matter to me which day we go where. For those that only have one day to boat here, my recommendation would be to go "down" Saturday to downtown JAX. There's not too many cities that you can boat straight through the heart of downtown amongst the city skyline.
Request ALL bring as many fenders you have available with you!

posted 08-15-2007 06:08 PM ET (US)         

Doctor's Lake to Palatka is a little longer. After Palatka the river narrows and lot's of twist and turns to Lake George and Silver Glen Springs.

It's a three hour run to Silver Glen Springs one way, so I'd say that's out of the question except for the truly adventurous. As stated earlier in thread, that portion of the river best belongs to Janice. She sounds available mid-September, as she's replied not available for this rendevous.

posted 08-16-2007 07:28 AM ET (US)         

I figure Friday night people will just be arriving for weekend and will come by car to Whitey's for Capt's meeting. We could also go there or Clark's Fish Camp on east bank of river Sat night to each by boat. Whitey's and Clark's have boat dockage.

posted 08-16-2007 02:19 PM ET (US)         

If you spending some money on gas, lodging and food, I want all of you to leave feeling it was worthwhile and enjoyable.
That was the idea of the CAPT's meeting, but sounds like some want to know in exact detail before even committing to coming. I don't recall such level of detail on the Suwannee trip and I committed from out of town despite. My experience in organizing social events like this at work, is that it is impossible to completely satisfy everybody, but you try to solicit and incorporate as much input from the group as possible.

posted 08-16-2007 03:04 PM ET (US)            

Reason why I am asking is "we" can not do another Suwannee like river run, no matter what boat I am in so when people are talking about 3 hours to here, and 1 hour to there, etc..I need to know what is in store. It is a HUGE river and I do not want to spoil anyone elses good time, especially in their boat by having to cut the day short or turn around. I also do not want to get stranded in a center console during a squall 2 hours from safe harbor.

posted 08-16-2007 06:28 PM ET (US)            

Sunday we have a road rally with our church that I'm sure will be tons of fun. I can't miss THAT. So Sunday I'm pretty sure we're out.

Also going a long distance in a Dauntless 14 can be really grueling. I wouldn't want to go all the way to Palatka if that is what you're thinking. Sorry.

posted 08-16-2007 09:40 PM ET (US)            

I enjoyed Suwanee in that there was a real distance to go (makes all the trouble of getting the boat ready and hauling it five hours worthwhile), and would like to do some traveling on the St John's. Of course, since we will be in boats from 13' to 25', there is no one good speed and the river might be to rough for the smaller boats, and there is always the threat of thundershowers.

I am open to anything, however, and like Nick, know NOTHING about the St John's river other than the parts I have passed over in the car.

I also realize that trying to herd a bunch of cats like us in the middle of a hot August is a challenge few would really want to take on.

Again, I am open to anything. It is great just getting to see all of you guys one more time without having to wait until next year's Whaler rendezvous.

This time, WE HAVE TO get a group picture to send back to the Whaler folks. Speaking of that, are we all launching and retreiving at the same place, or just meeting somewhere with out boats in the water?

I have been in Cape Canaveral all this week and have really enjoyed the beautiful rivers here.

I plan on going on the Whaler tour this coming Thursday, so I should be charged up from that!

See you all next week!

posted 08-17-2007 07:06 AM ET (US)            

As far as where to go and what to do we will have to leave that up to those experienced with the area. distance is not a problem for us. We have come in from the cut and sort of remember that it is a long way with lots of traffic. So is the ICW.

posted 08-17-2007 05:10 PM ET (US)         

Quick Poll # 1:
How many plan to boat Sat only?
How many plan to boat Sat and Sunday?

Relevent questions for firming up the itinerary. IMHO, there are two viable proposals for accomodating those who have expressed only wanting to be underway a short period of time/distance and those desiring a longer cruise:

Proposal 1: Saturday boat from Doctor's Lake to Jacksonville Landing, some stop and get a leisurely lunch at the American Cafe, Hooters or other while the more adventurous carry on toward Mayport and return to rendevous back with the others remaining at the Landing before all converging on either Whitey's, Clark's Fish Camp or dine ashore.

Proposal 2: Saturday all cruise from Doctor's Lake to Jacksonville Landing for a leisurely aforementioned lunch, then all cruise back toward Doctor's Lake and explore either Black Creek or Julington Creek.

Quick Poll #2: Proposal 1 or Proposal 2?

To answer a few questions posed in feedback received to date:

Beaches: Unfortunately, there really are no sandy beaches/shoreline on the river. One of the things more appealing about the Florida gulf coast than here. It's tie up at a dock and go somewhere or watersports in open water. Obviously, the water quality is no where near as pristine as Suwannee or open beachfront. That's St. John river boating.

Food: For meals, Fishgutz graciously offered his home. We have Friday night covered at Whitey's, breakfast on your own at hotel/home and Satuday lunch covered above proposals. I know of one public park on Doctor's Lake to BBQ, but could not tie up boats and would involve all driving. Also the former Girls Scout camp on Black Creek, Camp Chowenwow. I could also possibly get a neighborhood community center room for $70, but I would ask folks to chip in. I really did not plan on every single meal being a group outing. This a more surburban/urban area, so BBQ outdoor options are extremely limited. If many are boating Saturday only, I thought it highly likely they might get dinner on their way home.

Ramps: I listed in earlier post 2 ramps, one public, one private on Doctor's Lake. I would propose folks use either they feel most comfortable finding/using and rendevous at the Doctor's Lake Route 17 highway bridge. This is easily found from the ramps at the convergence of Doctor's Lake with the St Johns main channel. I would propose a 0900 Saturday rendevous time and hail on VHF Channel 16. This allows time for all to get breakfast and get to the ramps and launch. By time we arrive, launch, rendevous it will be close to 1100 at the Landing.

Think it over on weekend and we will revisit Monday. Have a great weekend!

posted 08-17-2007 05:56 PM ET (US)            

Drinks and snacks at our house Saturday night (after supper?) Sometimes a lot of snacks makes a meal. Whatever, we're flexible. I have good beer, soda, some snacks and a grill. BYO hard liquor. My wife will make a healthy snack, I will make something unhealthy. If everyone pitches in a little we could have plenty to go around. Afterall it isn't about the food but really the relationships and friendships. Right?

posted 08-17-2007 10:02 PM ET (US)            

Poll #2: Prefer Proposal ONE -- trip to Jax Landing, then on to Mayport while those that want to imbibe do so. Pick 'em up on the way back.

We are, however, flexible and are up for anything.

Ace & Joy

posted 08-18-2007 08:47 AM ET (US)            

It's a 100+ miles trip to this event and would like to make the most of it.

This is only a suggestion and should not change any of the plans that Mombo Minnow has set up.

As far as bringing something to a BBQ, just give us a hint and we will bring whatever. Food stuff!!!

posted 08-18-2007 05:30 PM ET (US)         

Fishgutz, no sweat! I could not believe you even opened up the possibility of your home after so recent a move from Milwaukee.

We could easily go to Clark's Fish Camp on Julington Creek in the late afternoon before putting the boats back up on trailers to end the day. Or, if folks want to get off the water early, we could drive to one of the two parks I mentioned and do a BYOB barbecue.

I checked my community center last night and unfortunately the kitchen and a/c communuity room for rent were booked already. However, we could hang out poolside at covered tables, but there's no BBQ pits, we'd have to haul in our own food. In fact, my neighbors and I did just that last night. The advantage to that locale is it's close immediately adjacent to the Lakeshore ramp and parking. It would sure eliminate some additional driving. However, some of the ladies might want to return to the hotel to freshen up.

Fellow local guys, let me know if you think any of these Sat night ideas makes sense. The out of town guests are counting on our judgement.

posted 08-19-2007 07:46 PM ET (US)            

Jeff, Sophia and Victoria

posted 08-19-2007 08:41 PM ET (US)         

Love the pictures of the Airshow! I tried to first organize this rendevous last fall on Airshow weekend. First day was cold and windy, of course the second day I had to work the show it was a beautiful boating day :(

posted 08-19-2007 10:11 PM ET (US)            

I'll probably make the Captain's meeting Friday night launch at the Lake Shore ramp early Saturday morning and do a little fishing around the bridge there. Shrimp are in the river heavy now and so are fish following the shrimp.

I'm Fishgutz's brother.

posted 08-20-2007 09:12 AM ET (US)         

My informal tally to date indicates majority are planning on Saturday only and prefer a shorter cruise. Again, I plan to hit the water early but propose we rendevous afloat at Doctor's Lake Bridge at 0900. Hail on Channel 16. Some of locals coming by boat from elsewhere on river, others will use Whitey's ramp, Lakeshore public ramp and/or Doctor's Lake Marina private ramp. See earlier post in thread for addresses and maps of Fleming Island facilities.

I am available Sunday for those staying over and interested in longer cruise up towards Mayport on Sunday. We can discuss Sunday further at the Capts meeting Friday night at 7pm at Whitey's Fish Camp.

posted 08-20-2007 05:30 PM ET (US)            

You Bayliner-boater, you! A mere three- or four-hour ride? In those fancy cars YOU lease? Come on, now.

If you really can't come, we understand. Wish you could make it, though.

We took out the Temptation this weekend off of Cocoa Beach. Beautiful water! Planning on going out again tomorrow and watching the Space Shuttle land. Still planning on the factory tour on Thursday, and seeing all you guys Saturday morning.

posted 08-22-2007 07:33 AM ET (US)         

For the rest, I have called Whitey's and told them to expect our group (estimated 12 people) Friday at 7pm. We will hold the Capts meeting and do dinner.

Capt's meeting: I will bring a local chart, familiarize all with local ramps, proposed route and latest marine weather forecast. We have had a very hot, dry week so bring plenty of ice. There is a Super Wal-Mart next door to the Sleep Inn. Also, several gas stations if you need to tank the boat. Gate being cheapest at approx. $2.65/gallon. I would also bring foul weather gear, as chance of precipitation looks higher this weekend.

posted 08-22-2007 06:33 PM ET (US)            

Jim

posted 08-23-2007 09:39 PM ET (US)         

JJANDPOP is already at Whitey's. I saw his RV and Outrage backing into their spot as I returned from work tonight.

posted 08-24-2007 09:43 AM ET (US)         

We'll wait to get a quorum, which I suspect might take an hour if ramp traffic bad. I'll carry a short list of boats I am expecting to determine whose missing.

posted 08-24-2007 04:01 PM ET (US)         

http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address& cat=Lakeshore%20Boat%20Ramp&address=%5b4200%2d4235%5d%20Lakeshore%20Dr& city=Orange%20Park&state=FL&zipcode=32003&country=US

Doctor's Lake Marina no longer allows fee for ramp use. This is too bad, because right under the bridge. However, parking is tight there and limited, so maybe not so bad.

As yet another option, I alternatively recommend the Lakeshore Drive-West public ramp on Doctor's Lake. This is easily accessible west on Route 220 from Sleep Inn, with a brown ramp sign marking the right turn at the second traffic light. Not as far down Rte 220 as Whitey's...about half the distance (1 mile)

Whitey's has a ramp, dockage and fuel but more cramped. I saw JJANDPOP on Doctor's Lake this morning and they are docked at Whitey's for the long weekend.

Another option I have not previously mentioned is Knight's Marina, which is further south on Hwy Rte 17 from Sleep Inn at the mouth of Black Creek. Lot's of good parking at this facility. However, you'd have about a 2 mile cruise north on river to Doctor's Lake from this ramp. If you are coming into Fleming Island from the west on State Rte 16 into Green Cove Springs, you will hit this ramp first, immediately on the right off Hwy 17.

posted 08-25-2007 05:16 PM ET (US)         

I have no desire to even try to boat Memorial Day weekend, I'd rather this be my last 2007 summer memory!

The weather was weird, but the rain held off on our route and the cloud cover was a welcome respite from the intense heat wave we've had the last week. We've left a few things for a return engagement on the lower St Johns for next year.

posted 08-25-2007 09:01 PM ET (US)            

Here is a link to the photos I took. Enjoy.

http://www.ourlifeanew.com/Homepa6/stack6.htm

posted 08-25-2007 09:11 PM ET (US)            

Great meeting all of you.