CSR Northeast Flotilla 2014

Alex,

Flat hammock is a great place to anchor and have lunch, just be aware that this little island's "beach" is all stones - no fine sand. Bring foot protection if you intend to walk there!

Dale
 
MasterFab said:
Alex,

Flat hammock is a great place to anchor and have lunch, just be aware that this little island's "beach" is all stones - no fine sand. Bring foot protection if you intend to walk there!

Dale
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Thanks for clarification, Dale. When I was at Fishers Isl, I didn't get too close to Hammock to distinguish whether it was sand or small stones. It looked like all sand. In this case, Napatree Beach would be my vote for a beach day.
 
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I second the motion!

Dale
 
I'm confused. For a beach day are you talking about dinghy use or breaking down the raft and moving the big boys? If dinghy's how long is the ride from Mystic?
 
mjmason1 said:
I'm confused. For a beach day are you talking about dinghy use or breaking down the raft and moving the big boys? If dinghy's how long is the ride from Mystic?
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Mike, if were talking about Napatree Beach its either or. But realistically, I think it's too long of a ride on a regular size dinghy (8'-10' with 4-8HP). However, currently there are 4 center console dinghies in our fleet (mine, Greg's, Kenny's and Rich's). For these 11'-12' with 30-40HP dinghies it's a nice ride. So, it's up to the crew whether they would want to choose to take a big boat or their dinghy. Others will need to come by big boats. We can also break up in groups where some kids go on the fast and bigger dinghies for some fun ride while adults gather on couple of big boats.

As for the big boats, probably it might bejust a little easier to peal off couple of boats from the raft, but I never considered it a big deal to take off from the dock. So, it'll come down to who won't mind volunteering their boat for taking part of the gang to the beach.

The bottom line is that as long as we work together as a team we've got number of options.

Another point that just crossed my mind, if we're seriously thinking on doing a day trip (as a group) to Napatree, then we might want to keep in mind how the Mystic Harbor Hwy Bridge (which opens 40min on the hour) will impact our trip to the beach and back. So, that's another reason why we might want to consider other marinas instead of Mystic Seaport. But, let's face it, the bridge is really a minor problem, which can be easily solved by proper timing.

Oh, BTW...Napatree is a great spot for some water activities (tubing, water skiing, etc.)
 
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Mike,

In terms of time, Mystic to Napatree is on the order of 10-15 minutes on plane, not including travel time in the channels. Both Mystic and Napatree have some pretty long channels, but both are very scenic and definitely worth the trip, if you've never been to either spot. I would recommend that you enter Napatree the first time with a guide, since the channel entrance at Sandy Point is quite narrow, to the point that you can toss a rock from the beach to the channel marker. But, the beaches are worth it. Once you're at Napatree, you actually have two completely different beaches to choose from - one side is the Atlantic, with sometimes big waves and cooler water, while the other side is the protected water of the anchorage, with no waves and warmer water. It's a great spot.

Dale
 
I spent a day at Napatree last July during the 100 degree days. The beach was beautiful. It was so hot we ran our genny all night for the a/c. Love the beach. The bass were swimming between our legs. Still on the maybe list, but if we attend we will be up for a trip to the beach.
 
Mike, does this mean that if you can make it you would vote for Mystic as a "flotilla base" with Napatree for a day trip to the beach?
 
Alex,

Did you update the spreadsheet yet? We've been waiting all day.....sheeesh.

Dale
 
MasterFab said:
Mike,

In terms of time, Mystic to Napatree is on the order of 10-15 minutes on plane, not including travel time in the channels. Both Mystic and Napatree have some pretty long channels, but both are very scenic and definitely worth the trip, if you've never been to either spot. I would recommend that you enter Napatree the first time with a guide, since the channel entrance at Sandy Point is quite narrow, to the point that you can toss a rock from the beach to the channel marker. But, the beaches are worth it. Once you're at Napatree, you actually have two completely different beaches to choose from - one side is the Atlantic, with sometimes big waves and cooler water, while the other side is the protected water of the anchorage, with no waves and warmer water. It's a great spot.

Dale
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Speed on plane is different on your boat compared to some others!
 
MasterFab said:
Alex,

Did you update the spreadsheet yet? We've been waiting all day.....sheeesh.

Dale
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:lol:

I've been patiently gathering the data for our spreadsheet. But, since you asked, here's the updated version.

It's now clearly became a race between the Mystic and Montauk (MYC), so to simplify the picture I've removed other ports.

Choosing_Port2.jpg

I think we have a chance avoiding the split of groups between Mystic and MYC, that's if we can convince Todd's gang that the distance difference between WNH->Mystic->Block vs. WNH->MYC->Block is only about 10-15NM. I did quick calculation on Raytech and that's the approximate difference I came up with.

Also, don't forget folks that when we did MYC we had special group discount. But, if you come there with smaller party the charge is: $5.5 p/f with 40 foot minimum + $25 p/night (30amp) or $35 p/night (50amp) + resort fee + tax. So, for a 30-35 footer you're looking at close to $300 per night.

Just in comparison, we're looking at 3 (could be more) options for Mystic:

1. Mystic Seaport Marina - $4.50 p/f (I'll have to double check but i think elect. is included). This is most expensive marina but it gives everyone on board FREE access to the Seaport Village. This is where we can have up to 20 boats in the Northern section and the rest rafted in the anchorage. The anchorage can have somewhere up to 10 boats rafted.

2. Mystic River Marina - $2.80pf, 30 amp included. There's a clubhouse there that possible could handle the group dinner, it would be included in the slip rentals. Kitchen Little is also on premises and has shown interest in doing the catering.

3. Mystic Shipyard - $2.50 pf + electric, small landing fee for the others. They have an indoor pool.
 
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Alex,
I hate to be like Switzerland but we haven't been to either port, so we'd be happy either way. I will check with the Admiral and see which way she would vote.
 
Looks like you have the votes for Mystic.....As far as Montauk is concerned - we will probably stay at star island - they still have a pool - their docks are concrete floating (instead of fixed piers) - and they are a bit cheaper per foot (with a 30' minimum)

Of your three Mystic choices, the seaport/anchorage would be my choice

Mystic River Marina is a Brady Bunch era facility (never updated) - it is a FAR walk from anything (although you would probably get around by dinghy anyhow)

Mystic shipyard is my home port - their pool is outside not in, but it is always clean and is a great park-like setting - there is also a banquet facility on site (lots of weddings, etc) caterers are there all the time... (there are no moorings available for rent there, but there are some across the chanel (well protected), (I believe masons island marina ownes them).....This marina is a bit of a walk into town, but again, your primary mode of transport would be dinghy.

For my crew, Montauk just makes sense because Mystic will be our home port, and we have never been to Montauk before....

Oh, and I think you'd be nuts to go from mystic to napatree and then back to mystic and then to block with the big boats - talk about back tracking - besides its much shorter by dinghy (you can cut through the shallow mooring field and cut closer to stonington, or even go out the "back way" by lords point) - but, as I said before, your next stop (block) will put napatree to shame anyway (as far as beach, watersports, etc...
 
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Mike, if you've never been to Montauk I think that MYC is the place to be in order to get the true experience. Their facility is great, the docks are loaded with some stunning yachts and hey also have shuttle to go to town. The bars, restaurants and outside lounge areas are very nice. 3 pools, tennis courts. Well, you get what you pay for.

I totally understand that if you're out vacationing that week, coming back to your home port doesn't make sense.
 
Alex

Something to checkout in Mystic Seaport. Beside the northern area where they can handle up to 20 boats, they have other areas, including tying side to on the quay near the tall ships. A few years back when a group went we were spread out, a few in the north area, and myself and Al (62 Azmut) were stern to stern along the quay just where the river widens to the achorage area. I think it was close to the pavilloned picnick area. Marianne (New Freedom) may remember the exact name of the area as we traveled together on that trip. This reduces the need to break a raft if some are planning a beach day trip. I'm not a beach person, as I like to wander around, so if you needed my tender for the day, it's available.

Rich
 
Thanks Rich, that's a great input and huge thanks for your generous offer on the dinghy.

Since we're pretty much settled with the official port #2, I'll shift the focus on the docking options and hear more details what the marina can offer for us. Once I gather additional details, I'll share them with the group and we'll choose what marina fits our needs best. If the Mystic Seaport Marina will be preferred option, we'll look in to more details as to where would be best to place our group.
 
Since Mystic is our home port I thought I would add a few observations:

In my opinion Mystic Ship Yard would be the best choice within Mystic. Our marina is on Mason's Island along with Mystic River Marina (I had to laugh regarding the "Brady Bunch" era their club house does remind me of that show). Mason's Island is a small residential community that host's 3 marina's but nothing else. For most it would be very long a walk into town and if ventured I would bet they would flag a cab back; although a doable bike ride. The marina is clean with a small outdoor pool and play ground. One of the negatives is the small restaurant that resides on the property, Kitchen Little. Don't get me wrong it is very good and a very popular breakfast spot; in fact too popular. It creates a lot of traffic and long morning waits to find a seat.

Mystic Ship Yard is within the downtown shopping district of Mystic, it is located on the Stonington side. Most people don't realize that Mystic is a village that is divided by the river, half of Mystic is located within the town of Stonington and the rest on Groton's side.

There is one swinging railroad bridge to navigate by; but it is normally open and closes only for the passing trains. The Ship yard also give you a reasonable walk to Mystic Seaport, with the re launching of the Charles Morgan it is very popular and worth a visit. The Mystic Aquarium is bit too far for a stroll, but again a quick cab ride would be advised if you wanted to visit it.

Mystic has very good restaurant's ranging from Cajun, Mexican, Italian and all sorts of comfort foods all within walking distance from the Shipyard.

We have also spent time in Montauk, specifically Star Island. I have not stayed at MYC but have walked through it. The only negative for MYC is fixed docks.

If Mystic is selected plan on a dingy visit or two from us! We are still trying to work on including part of the journey into our summer plans.

 
MysticBoater said:
Since Mystic is our home port I thought I would add a few observations:

In my opinion Mystic Ship Yard would be the best choice within Mystic. Our marina is on Mason's Island along with Mystic River Marina (I had to laugh regarding the "Brady Bunch" era their club house does remind me of that show). Mason's Island is a small residential community that host's 3 marina's but nothing else. For most it would be very long a walk into town and if ventured I would bet they would flag a cab back; although a doable bike ride. The marina is clean with a small outdoor pool and play ground. One of the negatives is the small restaurant that resides on the property, Kitchen Little. Don't get me wrong it is very good and a very popular breakfast spot; in fact too popular. It creates a lot of traffic and long morning waits to find a seat.

Mystic Ship Yard is within the downtown shopping district of Mystic, it is located on the Stonington side. Most people don't realize that Mystic is a village that is divided by the river, half of Mystic is located within the town of Stonington and the rest on Groton's side.

There is one swinging railroad bridge to navigate by; but it is normally open and closes only for the passing trains. The Ship yard also give you a reasonable walk to Mystic Seaport, with the re launching of the Charles Morgan it is very popular and worth a visit. The Mystic Aquarium is bit too far for a stroll, but again a quick cab ride would be advised if you wanted to visit it.

Mystic has very good restaurant's ranging from Cajun, Mexican, Italian and all sorts of comfort foods all within walking distance from the Shipyard.

We have also spent time in Montauk, specifically Star Island. I have not stayed at MYC but have walked through it. The only negative for MYC is fixed docks.

If Mystic is selected plan on a dingy visit or two from us! We are still trying to work on including part of the journey into our summer plans.
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Are you confusing Mystic shipyard (across from Mystic River Marina and BEFORE the train bridge) with Seaport Marine (the one owned by Noank Shipyard across from Ft Rachel just through the train Bridge.....
 
Sorry yes, Seaport Marine.... its on the Stonington side a little up river from Ft Rachel. They are currently constructing a new restaurant and shower facility.
 
MysticBoater said:
Sorry yes, Seaport Marine.... its on the Stonington side a little up river from Ft Rachel. They are currently constructing a new restaurant and shower facility.
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Oh, that makes sense, b/c I got confused for a minute. Seaport Marine could be one of our prime candidates. Here's the info Ross have gathered so far:

Transient Rate $2.50 pf for 1st night + $10 30amp or $20 50amp, 2nd night $2.25 p/f. They have floating concrete docks, a clubhouse which will be available for us, in case we want to do a BBQ and dine right there. There's no anchorage. They'll have brand new restaurant on site. Located within walking or short dinghy ride distance to Seaport and Mystic downtown.
 
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