Cruisers…summer is finally upon us and that means it’s time to get your boats ready for heading up river for some fantastic sailing on the Ottawa Riviera! Pinhey’s Point, Constance Bay, Mohr Island – there are many anchorages that await! You should remember a few ‘golden rules’ of cruising on the Ottawa River (or wherever your travels take you). We all share the water with each other, and when we anchor we also need to take into consideration our on-land neighbours. To help out I have included a great article on the topic, but here’s the Cole’s Notes version:
1. Sound travels REALLY well on the water. Voices, music, engine noise (especially outboard motors) and barking dogs are all examples of some of the most common disruptions of anchorage serenity. That’s not to say a good party cannot be had with the expected music and related noises, but common sense and respect for others needs to weigh in as well.
2. If you’re planning a big gathering think about rafting up away from an anchorage. This way you can enjoy the night life while others who came to the anchorage to get away from the daily buzz can enjoy the tranquility they are expecting.
3. Remember that although some of us consider our boats ‘floating cottages’. When we anchor we are likely to be near some of the non-floating kind. Land owners and boaters understand that a balance needs to be struck. If you own a cottage in front of an anchorage, there will be boats on the water in front of your beach. Likewise, boat owners need to understand that those on land are sharing the same anchorage. In the end, respecting your neighbour (floating or otherwise) is the golden rule.
4. If you are unsure about how to anchor, where to anchor, or what the unwritten rules are when at anchor, don’t hesitate to ask around the Club. There is far more experience in the heads of our regular cruisers than can be summed up in any article. Seek one of them out and have a chat – it will go a long way to making your experience a great one!