The Bitter End

Choosing the Right Charter, II

By Captain J. Gary “Gator” Hill

Make sure the trip you book is the best match for you and your family. Email Captain Gator to ride along with him on Monster III - if you dare! Photo by J. Gary Hill

Welcome back for round two of “Choosing the Right Charter,” continued from the April issue. The first half dealt with six-pack charters, charters that can take six or less paying customers. This month it’s time to focus on bigger boats, or in the fishing world what are known as head boats, or larger private charter boats that carry over six paying customers.

I’ve found that these larger boats (sometimes classified as C.O.I., certificate of inspection) aren’t able to skirt around the rules. Before anyone gets offended, I do not mean to imply that six-pack operators are shady, devious or otherwise unsafe or unscrupulous. What I mean to imply is larger charter boats draw more attention and as such are harder to operate without proper Coast Guard documentation and rules. That’s not to say however, that each and every operator has your best interest or fun at heart.

Let’s talk about things you should be able to count on when booking a trip. First off is safety for your family and these boats are required to carry certain safety measures. For example, if you are fishing offshore there will be personal flotation devices (PFDs) equipped with small strobe lights, reflective markings, and a sounding device, such as a whistle. Offshore boats are also required to have a life raft suitable for the number of passengers they can carry. Many of these vessels will have side band or shortwave radio sets, and most nowadays carry satellite phones as well. With annual inspections by the Coast Guard and other safety measures these boats are well-equipped for a day on the water.

But what I want to focus on is the right fit for you and your family. Having operated multi-passenger boats for several years now, I’ve had most every question thrown at me. Let’s look at this from a couple angles, the first being eco, scenic, dolphin, or nature tours. These tours generally last from one to four hours with most being about two hours or less. Prices can range from about $15.00-$75.00 per person. If you have special needs, such as mobility issues, talk to your captain and discuss in detail what your requirements may be. I’ve found that communication (or the lack thereof) is often the worse hurdles for guests, as well as for the operators. If time permits check things out in advance.

For eco/nature charters, the types of vessels can vary greatly, from pontoon to catamaran to regular V-hull, and with each boat, things such as sun covers and seating comfort, can be very different. If you have small children see if the tour (and boat) is well suited for them, though most venues are very family-oriented. Other creature comforts such as rest rooms often come into play, and on boats these tend to be very basic and oftentimes very small spaces.

Moving on to offshore fishing, or head boats. Things to think about in advance are the little things often overlooked or not thought of at all. First, are you prone to motion sickness? If so, be aware that most head boats will not return to shore if you get sick, so medicate (Dramamine) beforehand. Sometimes these boats will operate when smaller boats may not – in rough seas these larger boats handle better and are much safer than smaller boats in this regard. Are you planning to take small children on this adventure? How about your wife or girlfriend? Once again, talk with your captain or person taking your booking, explain to them in detail what you want and expect.

I always urge a quick check of the internet for reviews, look at their social media pages, or ask locals.

Plan your excursion with reasonable expectations or sometimes with no expectations, and you won’t be disappointed. I hope this was of help!

As always, I’ll see you on the water.

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113 Holcomb Street

ISLE OF HOPE This wonderful 2 BD 2.5 BA home was originally the location of a dairy farm. Two buildings for living. One two story with a wonderful master suite upstairs with new bath and large closet. Separate “bunkhouse” has full bath, bedroom, kitchen and living area. They are joined by a cozy courtyard and expansive deck perfect for back yard enthusiasts. Large detached workshop and several outdoor storage buildings. Welcome to Isle of Hope! Walk everywhere. To the marina, to the community pool, along Bluff Drive with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The community is one the few golf cart approved areas. This special historic home is for the lover of beautiful and unique properties. Perfect for second residence or investment. $384,900

364 Shady Oak Circle

29 Wild Thistle Lane

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78 Shipwatch Road RICHMOND HILL

This beautiful three BR/2B home is located on a lagoon. It has a wonderful open floorplan open to DR and kitchen. Wood burning fireplace and soaring ceilings. Stainless appliances. The master bedroom is huge with plenty of room for extra sitting area. Large walk in closet. Sprinkler system and tons of storage. The amenities are easily accessible. Walking trails, community pool and playground. Everything your family could desire in the Main Street subdivision of Richmond Hill. The schools are just down the road.

$190,000 DUTCH ISLAND

This wonderful 5 BD, 3.5 BA family home is ready for you. From the open floorplan with lots of entertaining areas to the back deck overlooking the tidal lagoon, everyone has a space. This is a true 5 BR home with 3.5 baths. Split floorplan and master is on the first floor along with two other bedrooms. Living Room with FP and builtins and Dining Room welcome you as you enter. The family room and kitchen are open to each other and the back deck. Oversized two car garage is deep enough for storage and cabinets. This community is so perfect for your family. Lots of amenities. Gated community but close to all shopping and schools. Don’t miss the crab trap right out your back door. $525,000

WHITEMARSH ISLAND

The Marshes subdivision This 3BD 3BA is a wonderful place to call home. Large open rooms with two bedrooms on the first floor, great room and family room off of kitchen. Add a screened porch and deck to enhance the amazing marsh views. The second floor has a large bonus room, third bedroom and a bath. Lots of amenities to include a community pool, community dock, and common areas. $359,000

RICHMOND HILL

Here is the perfect home for the yard and view lover. Located on a lagoon for view and lots of wonderful roses and jasmine to enjoy while enjoying the outdoors. There is a wonderful patio just outside of the sliding glass doors. Storage shed in the back yard. Very open 3 BD, 2BA floorplan with high ceilings. There is a wonderful bonus room for recreation or hobbies. Kitchen open to the living area. Stone fireplace in the living area. Separate dining area. All bedrooms are good sized. Come bring your family home here. Easy walk to school. Fast access to restaurants and shopping. $159,000

6349 Abercorn St. Savannah, GA 912.352.1222

Lyn McCuen 912.224.0927

lyn@coldwellbanker.com www.lynmccuen.com

WILMINGTON ISLAND

This wonderful four BR/3B home is waiting for your family. It is close to all schools and shopping. Two master suites on the first floor and both are overlooking a private backyard and screened porch. Hardwood floors throughout the home. Newer HVAC systems and water heater. Sprinkler system was added for a lush yard. Additional lot located on the marsh for additional privacy and extra space. Have any children that like to build forts? This yard gives you plenty of room to do that. Convenient access to the beach or Historic District. Wonderful quiet Harbour Creek neighborhood. $489,000

BURNSIDE ISLAND

OMG!! 4BRs, 3BAs. That is all you can say about these views over the marsh and Vernon River. The sunsets alone are breathtaking. This traditional Low Country home is located on 2.8 acres and has views out of every window. Inground pool and screened porch overlooking the view as well. This estate is perfect for the discerning owner with privacy and lots of potential for gardens or a family compound. Burnside Island is a unique island with single family homes and lots of walking, riding, etc. Golf cart approved island. Owner may apply for membership in the Burnside Island Yacht Club on the Intracoastal Waterway. $749,900 REDUCED

217 Calley Road

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281 Shipyard

MIDTOWN

Wow!! No lots like this in Parkside. 4 total lots with amazing outdoor space. This charming bungalow will draw you in and make you want to settle in for life. Two bedrooms and bath down and a fantastic master suite and sitting area with bath on second floor. Hardwood floors and contemporary kitchen. There are two outdoor screened areas. Detached single car garage with lots of extra storage. Parkside is such a welcoming community with lots of friendly neighbors. Walk to Daffin Park for the dog park, watching games or enjoy the Banana games and fireworks. Ready for you now. $375,000

1205 E. 51st Street

TYBEE ISLAND

Neverending views of the Atlantic Ocean with amazing sunrises. 3 BR, 3.5 BA custom built home has all of the details that you desire. Ironwork, high end Gourmet kitchen, master suite, soaring ceilings and elevator are just a few of the special traits. Open floorplan with space for entertaining. Master Suite has private balcony, huge dressing room and luxurious tub with adjoining FP. Step directly out of the LR to the screened porch and adjacent walk way to the beach. Price Upon Request

3 6th Terrace

Located in a Scenic Historic District; Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

The Best of Savannah, Georgia!

Complimentary Loaner Cars

Drive in minutes to local restaurants, grocery stores, West Marine, and a Wal-Mart Supercenter.

Dockside Amenities

• Complimentary High-Speed Wi-fi • 30 - 50 - 100 amp electrical service • 4,000 feet of floating concrete docks • 600 feet of deep water face docks • Gas and diesel facilities • Pump-out station

Marina Amenities

• Complimentary loaner cars & bicycles • Ship’s store and laundry facilities • 2,000 sq. ft. overwater pavilion • Private restrooms and showers • Seasonal swimming pool