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Ocean Reef Club entrance channel (Key Largo)

Discussion in 'Yacht Captains' started by FL-NATIVE, Jun 29, 2016.

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  1. FL-NATIVE

    FL-NATIVE Member

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    Anyone know of any reason not to take an 8' draft boat through the Ocean Reef (Key Largo) entrance channel at high tide? The hump still the same? Any other changes? (Nothing but propeller blades and rudders from 5.5' to the 8' total draft on this boat!)
    Thanks, Chuck
  2. Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    I went there just once two years ago with a 6 1/4 draft. It was ok but 8' maybe pushing it. Maybe with a very high tide :). I recall there is a depth gauge on one of the pilings
  3. Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    call them and speak to the Dockmaster, he will be able to tell you everything. High Tide is going to be a must and it's going to be close, but I think do-able. Only worrysome area is the hump you already know about. They do get some pretty large yachts in there at times. I think one that goes in and out of there from time to time has a 9' draft.
  4. FL-NATIVE

    FL-NATIVE Member

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    Thank you Pascal. The depth gauge is new since the last time I was there. (With a 6' draft boat)
  5. FL-NATIVE

    FL-NATIVE Member

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    Thanks Capt J. Will call the DM.
  6. Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

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    Chuck.
    The captain before me on Curt C whacked a stabilizer fin off the boat in that channel. It was a regular stop for them, and he just got a little too far from center.
  7. FL-NATIVE

    FL-NATIVE Member

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    Thanks Ken. Yes, the wind and current can quickly push you to the nearby hard edges of that channel when you are trying to go as slow as possible. I have been in and out of there many times, with 6' or less of draft never had to worry about the hump unless a very low tide. Where are you these days?
  8. Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

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    Currently in Fiji. We have the front end of one our main engines in pieces; about half way from NZ to Fiji the alternator seized and took out most of the front end with it. Not the most convenient place for an overhaul!
  9. FL-NATIVE

    FL-NATIVE Member

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    Ouch! Are their any techs from Fort Laud there enjoying a free trip to Fiji? Does this mean time off for you by any chance?
  10. Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

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    Not at all. Boss is aboard, waiting for completion. I even had to make a quick trip to NZ to pick up parts myself.
    Hopefully going on sea trial later today or tomorrow.