HUNGRY FOR INFO
I always look forward to reading Soundings. The magazine consistently delivers a wide range of useful and interesting articles about boating, and I particularly enjoyed the recent roundup, “Best Dock & Dines” (July). It was helpful to see several excellent waterfront restaurants compiled in one place.
That said, I was hoping the piece would include more practical information for boaters planning a trip. The write-up focused largely on the dining experience at each location, with little about how to approach and tie up by boat. For future dock-and-dine guides, please consider adding a brief navigational summary for each entry — key items like mean water depth at the dock, whether there are transient slips or tie-up options, typical docking fees, bridge clearances, and any seasonal restrictions. Even basic information about fuel availability, launch ramps and contact numbers for marinas would be invaluable. These details help boaters plan safely and ensure the outing is enjoyable from the moment they leave the dock.
We keep our boat in Mattituck, New York, and have visited several places on your list. From experience, making reservations is only one part of the trip; checking water depth, low-tide access and docking cost is just as important. Including those points would turn a good dining guide into a practical resource for cruising boaters everywhere. – Steve Peterson
Several favorite dock-and-dine spots I’d recommend — which weren’t in the geographic range of your story — deserve mention. Spoon River in Belhaven, North Carolina, is managed by owners who clearly prioritize the guest experience. Mr. P’s Bistro in Southport, North Carolina, serves excellent Lowcountry fare and is well worth a stop if you’re cruising that region. – John Cottingham
If you’re boating in the Great Lakes, consider making a meal stop at the Pink Pony on Mackinac Island. It’s a great place for food, drinks and scenic views; timing your visit outside the peak tourist weeks will make the experience more relaxed. – Patrick McGorisk
Florida has its share of memorable dock-and-dine destinations as well. In Islamorada, Lorelei’s offers a lively atmosphere with dockage options and a mix of locals and visitors. Near Palm Beach, the Sailfish Marina Restaurant at Singer Island Resort has excellent service, a lovely waterfront view and — in my opinion — the best grouper sandwich I’ve had. If you’re on the Atlantic coast, Outriggers in New Smyrna Beach is another recommended stop. – Jim Bass
For true tropical dining in Southeast Florida, try Guanabanas in Jupiter. It’s accessible by boat under either of two bridges that provide approximately 13 feet of clearance at high tide. The outdoor tables, live bands and casual tiki-style seating make it an ideal spot for relaxed island-style meals. – Steven Schlamp
MINT CONDITION
In response to your call for reader photos of their boats, I’m pleased to share a picture of my 1974 Boston Whaler Revenge. I bought her on July 4, 1974, and this year she turned 48. I’m now 80 years old and remain committed to caring for her and continuing the Boston Whaler legacy on the water. It’s rewarding to preserve a classic boat and keep it active in the cruising community. – Ted Mentz
NEWS FOR NEWBIES
Thank you for the timely article “10 Tips To Keep You Safe on the Water” (June). With so many newcomers taking up boating in recent years, practical safety advice is essential. I’d encourage anyone new to boating to enroll in a formal safety course and, when possible, hire or ride with an experienced captain early in the season. Hands-on guidance about boat handling, local navigation, anchoring and emergency procedures can shorten the learning curve and reduce risk for everyone on the water.
A brief, repeated emphasis on basics — wearing life jackets, checking weather and tides, filing a float plan, keeping proper lights and communications gear aboard — will go a long way toward keeping both novice and experienced boaters safe. A combination of education and mentorship from more experienced boaters is an excellent approach to building safe habits for the entire boating community. – John Welch
This article was originally published in the September 2022 issue.