Boston Fireworks, when to get there?

[rwf]

I'm taking Serendipity to the fireworks on the Charles River this year (I hope). I'm looking for advice from people who've done this before; what time should I get there to still have a chance at a decent anchorage?

Rich

 

[Sea Gull]

We only went once, maybe 6 years ago. We went through the lock mid morning on the 4th and had our choice of anchorage. This year, being that the 4th is a Saturday, I might consider entering the Charles on Friday, just to be on the safe side.

 

[wakeup 19]

Please be advised: this Marine Advisory Notice is for ALL vessels planning on attending the 4th of July fireworks celebration on the Charles River. The Charles River Dam Locks will be CLOSED to ALL boat traffic as of 7:45pm on Saturday, July 4th per order of the DCR Superintendent of the Locks and Dams. All boaters planning on attending this event, please plan accordingly!

my commodore sent this out regarding locks. Let me know when you are in the area. I will be leaving boston on the 4th but would be happy to lend you a slip in my YC on friday if interested

 

[rwf]

my commodore sent this out regarding locks. Let me know when you are in the area. I will be leaving boston on the 4th but would be happy to lend you a slip in my YC on friday if interested

Thanks for the generous offer, but we slip here in the Boston area and can putt over to the Charles.

Rich

 

[wakeup 19]

ah, sorry just saw you had NY as port on transom! I am sure you changed that by now, you know how most feel about NY 'ers here in Boston. HAHA

 

[JV II]

If you get into the river by noon on Saturday, you should be all set to get an anchorage. Try to stay upwind of the barge if you can. They are very strict about the boundaries they set-up. You will not be allowed within 50 yards of shore or in the perimeter surrounding the barge. If the weather is unstable and a thunder shower can pop up, make sure your anchor is set hard or you'll be blown into shore. Be aware of who's anchored around you because if they are not set, they will be blown into you. For example, the the Charles Riverboat Lexington pulled anchor, nearly took out a few boats before grounding last year. You don't want that upwind of you. The weather tends to come from the west with either a north or south angle to it.