http://ephemerisle.org/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Oaklandmax 2026-05-09T01:05:42Z User contributions MediaWiki 1.34.1 http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88705 2021-10-04T19:59:59Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Traffic */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to reliability refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay or Suisun bay. Even on a boat that draws less than 5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from the marked channel, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows.<br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See [[radio]] page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88704 2021-10-04T19:55:28Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Traffic */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to reliability refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay or Suisun bay. Even on a boat that draws less than 5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from the marked channel, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows.<br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88703 2021-10-04T19:54:38Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Traffic */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to reliability refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay or Suisun bay. Even on a boat that draws less than 5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from the marked channel, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows.<br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See [radio] page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Radio&diff=88702 2021-10-04T19:53:33Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Radio channels */</p> <hr /> <div>This is a page for all things radio-related at Ephemerisle!<br /> <br /> The radios that most people use at Ephemerisle are [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_VHF_radio marine VHF radios], which means that they are to be considered safety equipment first and foremost - every boat at Ephemerisle should be equipped with a marine VHF radio in case of emergency. They are '''not toys''', and misuse can lead to [https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-enforcement-advisory-marine-radio-enforcement-bureau-reminds-boaters stiff fines]!<br /> <br /> Radios are nice to have for individuals, but '''strongly''' recommended for boat captains. Many islands require them as a condition of participation in the island. <br /> <br /> That being said, there's a lot of leeway to use VHF radios for social contact while staying legal with the FCC and Homeland Security! This page will outline a few of those ways.<br /> <br /> = Picking a radio = <br /> <br /> The [https://www.amazon.com/Standard-Horizon-HX300-Handheld-Marine/dp/B00AJVXA5W Standard Horizon HX300] is a good basic radio, as are most radios for $100+. <br /> <br /> Be careful with radios that cost under $60 as the microphones tend to be terrible and people can't hear you.<br /> <br /> = Radio channels =<br /> <br /> * Channel 69 is used for inter-island communication and reaching on-site medical or other support.<br /> <br /> * Channel 16 is used for reaching the coast guard.<br /> <br /> * Channel 13 is for communicating with commercial traffic directly. If you are about to get run over by a giant cargo vessel, use this channel to ask them how best to get out of their way if the escape route or their intended direction is not clear.<br /> <br /> = Basic radio usage = <br /> <br /> When trying to reach someone repeat their name, or their boat's name twice, then your name once. If they don't respond, wait a minute or so and then try again.<br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> &quot;Boaty McBoatFace, Boaty McBoatFace, this is Filthy Oar&quot;<br /> &quot;Boaty McBoatFace, Boaty McBoatFace, this is Filthy Oar&quot;<br /> &quot;Filthy Oar, I read you. This is Boaty McBoatFace. What's up?&quot;<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> = Emergency Calls on Channel 16 =<br /> <br /> Here’s how to report an emergency (channel 16): <br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> May Day, May Day, May Day<br /> This is [boat name here].<br /> We are anchored to the East of Mandeville County park. <br /> [State the type of the emergency.]<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> Here’s how to report a non-emergency safety problem, e.g., if platform parts drift into the shipping channel:<br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> Security (pronounced securiTAY), Security, Security<br /> This is [boat name here].<br /> We are anchored to the East of Mandeville County park. <br /> [State the type of the problem.]<br /> [State that it’s in the process of being dealt with.]<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> Do *not* jokingly say the words &quot;May Day&quot; over a radio.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Radio&diff=88701 2021-10-04T19:51:23Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Radio channels */</p> <hr /> <div>This is a page for all things radio-related at Ephemerisle!<br /> <br /> The radios that most people use at Ephemerisle are [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_VHF_radio marine VHF radios], which means that they are to be considered safety equipment first and foremost - every boat at Ephemerisle should be equipped with a marine VHF radio in case of emergency. They are '''not toys''', and misuse can lead to [https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-enforcement-advisory-marine-radio-enforcement-bureau-reminds-boaters stiff fines]!<br /> <br /> Radios are nice to have for individuals, but '''strongly''' recommended for boat captains. Many islands require them as a condition of participation in the island. <br /> <br /> That being said, there's a lot of leeway to use VHF radios for social contact while staying legal with the FCC and Homeland Security! This page will outline a few of those ways.<br /> <br /> = Picking a radio = <br /> <br /> The [https://www.amazon.com/Standard-Horizon-HX300-Handheld-Marine/dp/B00AJVXA5W Standard Horizon HX300] is a good basic radio, as are most radios for $100+. <br /> <br /> Be careful with radios that cost under $60 as the microphones tend to be terrible and people can't hear you.<br /> <br /> = Radio channels =<br /> <br /> * Channel 69 is used for inter-island communication and reaching on-site medical or other support.<br /> <br /> * Channel 16 is used for reaching the coast guard.<br /> <br /> * Channel 13 is for bridge to bridge communication. If you are about to get run over by a tanker, use this channel to ask them how best to get out of their way if the escape route or their intended direction is not clear.<br /> <br /> = Basic radio usage = <br /> <br /> When trying to reach someone repeat their name, or their boat's name twice, then your name once. If they don't respond, wait a minute or so and then try again.<br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> &quot;Boaty McBoatFace, Boaty McBoatFace, this is Filthy Oar&quot;<br /> &quot;Boaty McBoatFace, Boaty McBoatFace, this is Filthy Oar&quot;<br /> &quot;Filthy Oar, I read you. This is Boaty McBoatFace. What's up?&quot;<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> = Emergency Calls on Channel 16 =<br /> <br /> Here’s how to report an emergency (channel 16): <br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> May Day, May Day, May Day<br /> This is [boat name here].<br /> We are anchored to the East of Mandeville County park. <br /> [State the type of the emergency.]<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> Here’s how to report a non-emergency safety problem, e.g., if platform parts drift into the shipping channel:<br /> <br /> &lt;pre&gt;<br /> Security (pronounced securiTAY), Security, Security<br /> This is [boat name here].<br /> We are anchored to the East of Mandeville County park. <br /> [State the type of the problem.]<br /> [State that it’s in the process of being dealt with.]<br /> &lt;/pre&gt;<br /> <br /> Do *not* jokingly say the words &quot;May Day&quot; over a radio.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88700 2021-10-04T19:47:22Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Channels */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to reliability refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay or Suisun bay. Even on a boat that draws less than 5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from the marked channel, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows.<br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88699 2021-10-04T19:45:45Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Navigation */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to reliability refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88698 2021-10-04T19:44:46Z

<p>Oaklandmax: /* Navigation */</p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app can often offer the same capabilities, it is critical to have some paper charts or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture and for reliability. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation.<br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Sailing_from_SF_Bay&diff=88687 2021-10-01T04:03:43Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay.<br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> =Tides and Currents:= <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> ==Heading to the Delta== <br /> <br /> Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> ==Returning to the SF bay== <br /> <br /> This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> A common itinerary for the shorthanded is to make day one of the trip to Pittsburg Marina, which is a full but not exhausting distance. Second day is a short hop to Benecia that feels like a premature stop, but there are few good options past it. Lastly an early departure to cover the nautical miles back to the SF bay. Those with faster boats or more crew can eliminate stops by sharing the helm time, or by taking a break during the afternoon winds and resuming at night.<br /> <br /> =Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed= <br /> <br /> If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> =Navigation= <br /> <br /> Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> = Channels= <br /> <br /> The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> =Traffic= <br /> <br /> While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> =Common mechanical issues=<br /> <br /> There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88627 2021-09-30T15:31:13Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' [https://www.google.com/maps/@37.9853323,-121.5216167,14.92z (HERE)]<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. A 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast to the western perimeter, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent a legitimate and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but there are many uncharted hazards. In addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards, one should keep a careful watch for uncharted stumps and snags, especially near the perimeter. Study the charted hazards carefully near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind is generally pretty constant and mild from the west, and partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current seems mild, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88626 2021-09-30T15:29:29Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' [https://www.google.com/maps/@37.9853323,-121.5216167,14.92z (HERE)]<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. A 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast to the western perimeter, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent a legitimate and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but there are many uncharted hazards. In addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards, one should keep a careful watch for uncharted stumps and snags, especially near the perimeter. Study the charted hazards carefully near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88625 2021-09-30T15:24:21Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' [https://www.google.com/maps/@37.9853323,-121.5216167,14.92z (HERE)]<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. A 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast to the western perimeter, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent a legitimate and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but one should keep a careful eye out within 20 feet of the perimeter, in addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards. Study the charted hazards carefully, especially near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88624 2021-09-30T15:21:17Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88623 2021-09-30T15:18:05Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88622 2021-09-30T15:14:30Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for shallows. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88621 2021-09-30T15:11:00Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks and a nautical chart. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88620 2021-09-30T15:06:38Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in as little as 9 hours.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88588 2021-09-29T22:20:23Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is critical to have some paper charts, or a chartbook to refer to in order to navigate safely and to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88587 2021-09-29T22:16:44Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most force of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a rising tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88586 2021-09-29T22:14:29Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> Trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some factors and strategies to consider. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88585 2021-09-29T22:12:14Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' [https://www.google.com/maps/@37.9853323,-121.5216167,14.92z (HERE)]<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. A 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast to the western perimeter, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent potentially legitimate and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but one should keep a careful eye out within 20 feet of the perimeter, in addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards. Study the charted hazards carefully, especially near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88584 2021-09-29T22:11:30Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' [https://www.google.com/maps/@37.9853323,-121.5216167,14.92z (HERE)]<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. A 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast to the western perimeter, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent potentially dangerous and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but one should keep a careful eye out within 20 feet of the perimeter, in addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards. Study the charted hazards carefully, especially near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88583 2021-09-29T21:55:01Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some things to add to ones planning. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3kts. For a boat with an average 4kts and a max hull speed of around 6kts, this might allow 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seemingly wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resort one can depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88582 2021-09-29T21:51:58Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some things to add to ones planning. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3 kts to a boat with an average 4kts a max hull speed of around 6kts, allowing 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek<br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resortI will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88581 2021-09-29T21:51:07Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some things to add to ones planning. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3 kts to a boat with an average 4kts a max hull speed of around 6kts, allowing 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek. <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like &quot;San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook&quot; by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resortI will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88580 2021-09-29T21:49:31Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but here are some things to add to ones planning. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' Make use of the current by crossing SF bay at slack tide to arrive at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to your boat's speed. This can add 3 kts to a boat with an average 4kts a max hull speed of around 6kts, allowing 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing you to get from Berkeley to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. A common strategy is to ride the ebb current if one can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek. <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resortI will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Marinas&diff=88579 2021-09-29T21:39:20Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div><br /> These marinas are the most relevant and useful for Ephemerislers. <br /> <br /> = Relevant Marinas =<br /> <br /> Note - Distances are miles on the water from the marina/launch point. <br /> <br /> ==Aurora / SS Mazapeta / H&amp;H Marina'==<br /> <br /> If you're on the SS Mazapeta / Aurora, this is where the ship / ferries will launch from / return to, and is where the ferries will run from. Note that the marina itself is closed, boat launch overgrown with weeds, and the parking area locked off. It's still possible to park nearby and launch small vessels (kayaks, etc.) from a small launch a mile or so further down the road. <br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 2.6 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> H&amp;H Marina / Herman and Helen's Marina &lt;br&gt;<br /> 15138 W 8 Mile Rd &lt;br&gt;<br /> Stockton, CA 95219 &lt;br&gt;<br /> SS Mazapeta launch/return/parking: https://goo.gl/maps/SS8XwQJn1s92 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> <br /> ==SHIP Marina==<br /> <br /> This marina is owned and operated by Ephemerisle participants and is dedicated to Ephemerisle activities during the event. Ferry pickup will be on the docks behind the gate. Enjoy the accommodations while waiting for the ferry!<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 8 miles<br /> <br /> URL: [http://www.shipmarina.com shipmarina.com]&lt;br&gt;<br /> Address: [https://goo.gl/maps/u46Q8MYGzZTktsst6 6065 Bethel Island Rd. Bethel Island CA 94511]&lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina Map: https://goo.gl/maps/u46Q8MYGzZTktsst6&lt;br&gt;<br /> Parking GPS pin: https://goo.gl/maps/DRiiks4kYEUxLzAN9&lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina dock location: https://goo.gl/maps/1QeY38y3rDxFY3bX8&lt;br&gt;<br /> Parking Fee (2021): Payment is a flat fee of $45 for any event duration, reserve at www.shipmarina.com &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> ==Delta Bay Marina==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 7.75 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> Address: [https://www.google.com/maps/place/922+W+Brannan+Island+Rd,+Isleton,+CA+95641/@38.1079028,-121.6038341,16.55z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x809aac9644d3a14d:0x970b1903fc3bb571!8m2!3d38.1083818!4d-121.6026199 922 West Brannan Island Road, Isleton, CA 95641] &lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina Phone: (916) 777-5588 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> ==Holland Riverside Marina==<br /> <br /> Where the Elysium barge used to be docked. <br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 12 miles <br /> <br /> 7000 Holland Tract Rd &lt;br&gt;<br /> (925) 628-7557 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> == Riverboat Marina ==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 4.6 miles <br /> <br /> Maybe free parking<br /> <br /> == Lighthouse Marina ==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville : 4.6 miles <br /> <br /> Isleton: Boat ramp and resort<br /> <br /> Boat ramp. Apparently a new business who may be willing to make deals to attract customers.<br /> <br /> ==King Island Resort==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 5.6 miles (a few miles down the road from H&amp;H marina) &lt;br&gt;<br /> 11530 W Eight Mile Rd Stockton, CA 95219 &lt;br&gt;<br /> (209) 951-2188 &lt;br&gt;<br /> Have gas, ice, a boat launch, and a small convenience store.<br /> <br /> == Marine Emporium ==<br /> <br /> in Oakley: When you just have to launch the really, really BIG stuff! Ephemerisle friendly and kind to large ridiculous art things on barges<br /> <br /> == Sunset Harbor ==<br /> <br /> in Oakley: Boat launch that is Ephemerisle friendly (a short walk across the bridge from parking at Starboard Home Marina)<br /> <br /> == Starboard Home Marina ==<br /> <br /> on Bethel Island: Marina owned by Ephemerisle veterans that can help with temporary slip spaces and parking while you are out having fun. May provide a way out to the event if you are nice.<br /> <br /> == Sugar Barge == <br /> <br /> on Bethel Island: Boat ramp with 24/7 gas pumps<br /> <br /> <br /> = Other marinas =<br /> <br /> These marinas don't have services generally applicable to Ephemerislers.<br /> <br /> ==Willow Berm Marina==<br /> Great fuel dock with Diesel and Gas, as well as holding tank pump out. 4.5nm from Mandeville Pt by boat.<br /> <br /> ==Paradise Point Marina==<br /> <br /> This was the marina which Ephemerislers rented houseboats from. Now their houseboat rental business has shutdown.<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: (by boat)- 6 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> = Marinas Non Grata =<br /> <br /> * Korth's Marina on the Isleton Loop respectfully requests Ephemerislers NOT patronize their facilities (launch, park, gas), citing bad behavior from some past attendees. If you must use Korth's, please do so with utmost discretion.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Marinas&diff=88578 2021-09-29T21:38:17Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div><br /> These marinas are the most relevant and useful for Ephemerislers. <br /> <br /> = Relevant Marinas =<br /> <br /> Note - Distances are miles on the water from the marina/launch point. <br /> <br /> ==Aurora / SS Mazapeta / H&amp;H Marina'==<br /> <br /> If you're on the SS Mazapeta / Aurora, this is where the ship / ferries will launch from / return to, and is where the ferries will run from. Note that the marina itself is closed, boat launch overgrown with weeds, and the parking area locked off. It's still possible to park nearby and launch small vessels (kayaks, etc.) from a small launch a mile or so further down the road. <br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 2.6 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> H&amp;H Marina / Herman and Helen's Marina &lt;br&gt;<br /> 15138 W 8 Mile Rd &lt;br&gt;<br /> Stockton, CA 95219 &lt;br&gt;<br /> SS Mazapeta launch/return/parking: https://goo.gl/maps/SS8XwQJn1s92 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> <br /> ==SHIP Marina==<br /> <br /> This marina is owned and operated by Ephemerisle participants and is dedicated to Ephemerisle activities during the event. Ferry pickup will be on the docks behind the gate. Enjoy the accommodations while waiting for the ferry!<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 8 miles<br /> <br /> URL: [http://www.shipmarina.com shipmarina.com]&lt;br&gt;<br /> Address: [https://goo.gl/maps/u46Q8MYGzZTktsst6 6065 Bethel Island Rd. Bethel Island CA 94511]&lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina Map: https://goo.gl/maps/u46Q8MYGzZTktsst6&lt;br&gt;<br /> Parking GPS pin: https://goo.gl/maps/DRiiks4kYEUxLzAN9&lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina dock location: https://goo.gl/maps/1QeY38y3rDxFY3bX8&lt;br&gt;<br /> Parking Fee (2021): Payment is a flat fee of $45 for any event duration, reserve at www.shipmarina.com &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> ==Delta Bay Marina==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 7.75 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> Address: [https://www.google.com/maps/place/922+W+Brannan+Island+Rd,+Isleton,+CA+95641/@38.1079028,-121.6038341,16.55z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x809aac9644d3a14d:0x970b1903fc3bb571!8m2!3d38.1083818!4d-121.6026199 922 West Brannan Island Road, Isleton, CA 95641] &lt;br&gt;<br /> Marina Phone: (916) 777-5588 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> ==Holland Riverside Marina==<br /> <br /> Where the Elysium barge used to be docked. <br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 12 miles <br /> <br /> 7000 Holland Tract Rd &lt;br&gt;<br /> (925) 628-7557 &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> == Riverboat Marina ==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 4.6 miles <br /> <br /> Maybe free parking<br /> <br /> == Lighthouse Marina ==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville : 4.6 miles <br /> <br /> Isleton: Boat ramp and resort<br /> <br /> Boat ramp. Apparently a new business who may be willing to make deals to attract customers.<br /> <br /> ==King Island Resort==<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: 5.6 miles (a few miles down the road from H&amp;H marina) &lt;br&gt;<br /> 11530 W Eight Mile Rd Stockton, CA 95219 &lt;br&gt;<br /> (209) 951-2188 &lt;br&gt;<br /> Have gas, ice, a boat launch, and a small convenience store.<br /> <br /> == Marine Emporium ==<br /> <br /> in Oakley: When you just have to launch the really, really BIG stuff! Ephemerisle friendly and kind to large ridiculous art things on barges<br /> <br /> == Sunset Harbor ==<br /> <br /> in Oakley: Boat launch that is Ephemerisle friendly (a short walk across the bridge from parking at Starboard Home Marina)<br /> <br /> == Starboard Home Marina ==<br /> <br /> on Bethel Island: Marina owned by Ephemerisle veterans that can help with temporary slip spaces and parking while you are out having fun. May provide a way out to the event if you are nice.<br /> <br /> == Sugar Barge == <br /> <br /> on Bethel Island: Boat ramp with 24/7 gas pumps<br /> <br /> <br /> = Other marinas =<br /> <br /> These marinas don't have services generally applicable to Ephemerislers.<br /> <br /> ===Willow Berm Marina===<br /> Great fuel dock with Diesel and Gas, as well as holding tank pump out. 4.5nm from Mandeville Pt by boat.<br /> <br /> ==Paradise Point Marina==<br /> <br /> This was the marina which Ephemerislers rented houseboats from. Now their houseboat rental business has shutdown.<br /> <br /> Distance to Mandeville: (by boat)- 6 miles &lt;br&gt;<br /> <br /> = Marinas Non Grata =<br /> <br /> * Korth's Marina on the Isleton Loop respectfully requests Ephemerislers NOT patronize their facilities (launch, park, gas), citing bad behavior from some past attendees. If you must use Korth's, please do so with utmost discretion.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88577 2021-09-29T21:30:49Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek. <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. As a last resortI will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping, but usually there is room to maneuver past them while staying in safe water. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88575 2021-09-29T21:20:18Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * Some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful:<br /> ** Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor<br /> ** McNears beach/China Camp<br /> ** Loch Lomond Marina<br /> ** San Rafael Creek. <br /> More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel that is doing something that makes it difficult to determine how to keep clear of them, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88572 2021-09-29T20:49:11Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in seeminglywide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel that is doing something that makes it difficult to determine how to keep clear of them, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88571 2021-09-29T20:46:54Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay (and back) ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel that is doing something that makes it difficult to determine how to keep clear of them, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88570 2021-09-29T20:45:34Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping. If you are unable to determine which direction to go to keep clear of a vessel that is doing something that makes it difficult to determine how to keep clear of them, like if you are not sure if they are turning around, or which channel they are picking, you can contact their bridge on channel 13. They are unlikely to be able to avoid you, but if you know what they are doing it may help you avoid them. See radio page for general usage.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88568 2021-09-29T20:38:23Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always know their location by consulting a chart. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar is invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88567 2021-09-29T20:25:04Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured which allows free entrance and exit, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow. Has diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accessible lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always chart their location. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar are invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88566 2021-09-29T20:21:35Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always chart their location. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar are invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88565 2021-09-29T20:20:23Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always chart their location. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar are invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping.<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88564 2021-09-29T20:17:45Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> ''' Channels:''' Shipping channels are great. Even on my boat that draws 4.5' it is nice to stay in the channel where possible. The delta gets shallow in a hurry outside of the channels, even in wide open areas like San Pablo bay, or Suisun bay. If you do have to depart from them, check your chart, watch depth meter, and always keep a sharp lookout for the best route. <br /> <br /> '''Navigation:''' Use channel markers/daymarks. Frequent numbered markers allow one to always chart their location. While the delta can be a confusing maze of waterways to the unfamiliar, channel markers and a chart will allow anyone to navigate easily. While a gps or phone nav app is a great tool, it is really nice to have some paper charts, or even a chartbook to refer to in order to get the big picture. Something like San Francisco Bay and the Delta Waterproof Chartbook by Maptech WPB1210 3E, or similar are invaluable. There are also one page delta maps that are useful for knowing where various businesses in the delta can be found, but they are really not meant to be used for navigation. <br /> <br /> '''Traffic:''' While the channels are the best way to keep from running aground, they can be some huge traffic in them. A prudent captain would give the large commercial traffic a wide berth. They are often constrained by depth and/or cannot stop or maneuver. I will depart the channel if possible to avoid getting too close to large shipping.</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88563 2021-09-29T19:43:32Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> * While navigating the sometimes shallow waters of the delta, it ideal to move during a riding tide so that if you do run aground it may not be to long a wait for your vessel to float free. This is obviously not always possible, but it's something to keep in mind.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88562 2021-09-29T19:38:11Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/San Pablo Straight area at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88558 2021-09-29T19:25:18Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> * I've never had to stop between Bencia Marina and the SF bay, but there are some bail out points at the west end of San Pablo bay that might be useful, like Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, McNears beach/China Camp, Loch Lomond Marina, and San Rafael Creek. More details on these or other locations are welcome.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88556 2021-09-29T19:17:52Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to [[Mandeville Point]] in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to SF bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88554 2021-09-29T19:15:39Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> * Don't forget that you get the most of the current in the middle of the channel, so if the current is against you, try to get to the side of the channel as much as safety allows. Kame Richards has a great talk about harnessing currents and counter-currents when needed.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88552 2021-09-29T19:10:17Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> <br /> * Tides, currents<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88551 2021-09-29T19:08:02Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> === Tides and Currents === <br /> This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> *'''Heading to the Delta:''' I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> *'''Returning to the SF bay:''' This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, the west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to SF bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> <br /> * Tides, currents<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88550 2021-09-29T19:01:29Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. <br /> <br /> Heading to the Delta: I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> Returning to the SF bay: This is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and creates too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, that west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to the bay. This generally becomes an issue west of Antioch where the afternoon west wind can make the New York slough, Suisun Bay, and San Pablo bay pretty rough. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> <br /> * Tides, currents<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88549 2021-09-29T18:44:24Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> '''Tides and Currents:''' This is a tricky thing to write about as trip planning is something that is very much each captains responsibility, but I can describe what I do. Current rules everything when traveling to the delta for me. I try to cross SF bay at slack tide, arriving at the Richmond bridge/Brothers Islands/Pt. San Pablo area (insert straight name here) at the beginning of the flood tide at that location. This timing isn't exact as the flood tide and current stays with you as you head upstream if you can keep up with it. If done correctly, you may be able to ride the flood tide to Antioch or beyond. Combined with the usual westerly or SW wind, the current can add a significant amount of SOG to my humble boat's speed, where I average 4kts or so usually, with a max hull speed of around 6kts, I've seen 8 or 9kts sustained while in the height of the current with a strong following wind. That translates into a lot of extra ground covered in daylight hours, allowing me to get from Emeryville to Potato slough in 9 hours, departing 7am and arriving around 4pm.<br /> <br /> Returning to the SF bay is more complicated. I try to ride the ebb current if I can catch it in the early morning before the west wind picks up and created too much chop. If you have the engine capacity for it, some have suggested heading to the SF bay on a flood tide to trade adverse current for smoother waters. It all depends on your boat. Regardless, that west wind that builds in the afternoon helps on the way to the delta and is a rough element on the way back to the bay. Plan accordingly.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox. Short walk to town with many cafe, bars, and a supermarket, though the market is just far enough that taking a car service back to the marina is in order if you get lots of groceries.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> <br /> * Tides, currents<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Transportation&diff=88543 2021-09-29T15:23:32Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>Ephemerisle cannot be reached by land. You must arrange for transport and lodging by boat beforehand. While daytrippers are welcome, please make sure that you arrange a means of getting to and from the event beforehand. Wear good shoes just in case you need to clamor down rocks to get to the ferry. Most ferries to shore end at dusk and don't start again until dawn. If you miss the last ferry, you could spend a cold, wet, sleepless night. <br /> <br /> In most years, Ephemerisle has been at [[Mandeville Point]], about 11 miles from the city of Stockton. Note when calculating travel time that some of the roads are interrupted by bridges that may be raised to allow for boat traffic. <br /> <br /> There are basically three options: <br /> <br /> * Catch a ferry <br /> * Launch your boat/structure from a nearby boat ramp<br /> * Bring your own boat all the way by water<br /> <br /> == Getting a ride on a ferry ==<br /> <br /> Volunteer ferries are typically operated by the islands, and depart and return to one of the nearby marinas (which are listed below). Check with the leaders of your island to see if there is a volunteer ferry for your island. Ferry schedules vary depending on the person operating the ferry. Do not expect a ferry to tow your floating land or art unless you explicitly arrange this in advance. <br /> <br /> Check the [[Ephemerisle 2022]] page for info on how and where you can catch a ferry. <br /> <br /> == Launching a boat/platform ==<br /> <br /> Towing home-built structures not designed for the water is very, very slow. There are strong currents in the channels and traffic from big ships, so coming by kayak can be risky and only should be attempted by experienced kayakers.<br /> <br /> These are the closest usable boat ramps:<br /> <br /> * King Island<br /> * Paradise Point<br /> * Lighthouse Marina<br /> <br /> Check the [[Marinas]] pages for more locations and details.<br /> <br /> == Sailing from SF Bay ==<br /> <br /> Ephemerisle can be reached by water from the SF Bay. <br /> <br /> It's about a 60 mile trip (16 hours by sailboat) from Berkeley. It tends to be a lovely two day sail there with the wind at your back all of the way out there. And it tends to be something of a nightmare trip back with pounding waves directly into the wind the entire way back. <br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a depth sounder! Everyone runs aground in the delta.<br /> <br /> Make sure you've got a good working engine. The trip back is very, very difficult without an engine.<br /> <br /> [[File:Delta_sea_strainer_2020.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Sea strainer full of weeds]]<br /> '''Common mechanical issues:''' There are a lot of weeds floating in the delta. Be sure to check your sea strainer daily. This is something that many bay sailors only have do very rarely, but in the delta your sea strainer can fill with weeds daily. It's always a good idea to have a spare impeller and gasket, but especially so in the delta where a clogged raw water intake can destroy an impeller quickly.<br /> <br /> '''Areas to stop on the way there or back if needed:''' If all goes well with timing the tide and getting favorable wind, it is possible to make it from the bay area to at least Madevlille Point in one day. It is a long day though for all but the faster boats, so one may need to stop over on the way, and definitely on the slower trek back to the bay. Here are some of the places one might stop for the night:<br /> <br /> * Pittsburg Marina - Inexpensive, diesel and gas dock, nice restrooms, very friendly, short walk to town with good food. If you arrive after hours you can just dock in a guest slip and pay in the morning. Marina is not secured, but you wont have access to the bathrooms without getting a key during business hours.<br /> * Middle Slough - Can be a little windy, but roomy and a place to anchor.<br /> * Mayberry Cut - Calm, but some shoreside raccoons. <br /> * Benecia Marina - Sometimes really shallow, close to town, diesel and gas fuel dock. If you call ahead they will leave a gate key for you in an accesable lockbox.<br /> <br /> <br /> Details to add:<br /> <br /> * Tides, currents<br /> * channels, navigation, traffic</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88542 2021-09-29T06:36:00Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' 37.9772, -121.5233<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. My 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent potentially dangerous and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but one should keep a careful eye out within 20 feet of the perimeter, in addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards. Study the charted hazards carefully, especially near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax http://ephemerisle.org/index.php?title=Mildred&diff=88541 2021-09-29T06:34:11Z

<p>Oaklandmax: </p> <hr /> <div>[[File:mildred_island_chart.png|thumb|250px|right|Nautical Chart]]<br /> <br /> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento–San_Joaquin_River_Delta Sacramento Delta]<br /> <br /> '''GPS Coordinates:''' 37.977253399N, -121.523367226W<br /> <br /> '''Bottom Conditions:''' I found the bottom to be good holding mud, with some medium vegetation. Depth is a scope-friendly 14-17 feet (MLLW) across the whole anchorage. My 25lbs Mantus anchor held fast, and came up with some effort covered in mud and a lot of water hyacinth.<br /> [[File:Mildred_island_anchor_with_debris.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Muddy anchor with weeds]]<br /> '''Hazards:''' Most of the middle of the sunken island seemed clear of hazards, but the perimeter is rich with submerged tree stumps which represent potentially dangerous and hidden danger to vessels. Some of these are charted, but one should keep a careful eye out within 20 feet of the perimeter, in addition to the usual visual awareness and familiarity with the charted hazards. Study the charted hazards carefully, especially near whichever entrance you use.<br /> <br /> '''Wind and Currents:''' Wind was pretty constant and mild from the west, partially blocked by the berm that separates Mildred island from the branch of the Middle river that runs past its west side. Current wasn't noticeable while I was there, but that may not always be true. Definitely less current than Mandeville Point though.<br /> <br /> TODO:<br /> * Some overall comments<br /> * Drone photo <br /> * other folks at Mildred<br /> * police presence at Mildred</div>

Oaklandmax