I'm getting ready to pull the trigger on bying a 1977 Boatel 47' with 3208's. The interior needs a refit but the hull and mechanicals are great. I have a 500 mile trip along FL ICW. I am very experienced with operating small boats but not much in the big boats. Any tips on what I need to look out for and bring with me are much appreciated. I will have a buddy on board with me. We will have to cross the Ocachobee waterway as well. Thanks, Bob

I'm envious; you're going to enjoy your trip. We purchased our boat on the west coast of Fl about 5 years ago, traveled south to Sanibel Island, then crossed the Caloosahatchee to Lake Okeechobee, and traveled to the Indian River north of Jensen Beach. What a beautiful trip.
The only warnings that I can think of to give you are; when you are approaching the big lake on the west side, the channel into the lake is very narrow, lined with rocks, and not very well marked. Of course it was pitch dark, raining, and blowing 25 knots when we went through it so it might not be as bad as I remember it. The second item is when you are passing the Ft. Pierce inlet, be very careful if you have an outgoing tide. The tide moves through there so fast that it will suck you right into a channel marker if you're not careful. There's no problem if you expect it, keep well to the west side of the channel, and keep an eye on the channel markers but...if you're admiring the scenery and beautiful water, that channel marker can really sneak up on you.
By the way, we're located due west of marker 213 in Jensen Beach, Fl. If you look to your west you'll see a blue and white Burns docked in front of our home. Send me a message, and I'll reply with my cell number that you can call if you have any questions when you're in our area or if you need any help.
And, an added bonus: the Sunset Bay Marina, located immediately south of the old Roosevelt bridge in Stuart sells fuel for $.70 less than any other marina around.

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joetil
50x15 Burns-Craft in South Fla

Edited: 08/28/2009 at 03:36:24 AM by joetil

Very nice boat, my neighbor has a 1974 47' Boatel Islander for sale in the mid $20k. That will be a great boat for a trip like that. Spacious and good looking boat, you'll love it.

Thanks, I'll take all the help I can get. Deal is done, so this trip will definitely take place. No hurry to move the boat so I am going to take my time and plan it right.
Here is a pic.


Edited: 08/29/2009 at 07:47:38 AM by Shipwright

What's a 3208?

Bob

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I carry a gun because it's too tiring carrying a cop.

Caterpillar 3208s are V8 diesels with V drives. Very economical and reliable.

I used to run a Cat 953 track loader that had the 3208 turbo, unbelievable reliability and power. Nice boat, have fun on the trip.

Had a pair in my Pluck. Like a light bulb, just turn em on. Smooth as glass.

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OLD HOUSEBOATER