05/18 - 05/20 - 2018 Friday Harbor CBGT

The potluck isn't my favorite activity on a CD 16. Maybe I could just reach under the dock and whip up a seaweed salad?

Activities I would like:

MMSI. I've never made a call, never gotten one. It would be interesting to try the C Brat broadcast MMSI. I would also like to have a better understanding of what my VHF can and can't do vis a vis distance and around obstructions.

DSC. I think I read that there as a "test" of this feature that would not bring CG helicopters to the marina. Some way to "ping" and get a response. I assume that in a real DSC event, the radio transmits to the CG and the CG then sends the Lat Lon etc, out over their repeaters to boats in the area that might not have received the DSC directly?

Radar. I've always been curious as to what I look like on various screens, assuming that I show up at all.

MOB drills. These are always interesting. Throw a plastic milk jug overboard and have the admiral solo back and retrieve it. Be sure to time it so you know how long you would be in the water.

AIS. My own personal project. I finally called Standard Horizon and got yet another possible wiring connection to try connect my Lowrance plotter to the SH AIS radio. Frustrating that NMEA-0183 has color coded wires, but each manufacturer has their own code. Sort of defeats the purpose of have the wires color coded. I've been told that I can't damage anything, but there are probably 1,000 possible combinations. At least in FH there will be active AIS boats around so that I can instantly see when and if I get it right.

One website said that, because the low-end Lowrance plotter has only one incoming Com port, I have to choose between having AIS vessels show or DSC vessels show. Another site said I could do both by simply connecting two wires to that port.

Mark
 
MMSI and DSC. I have worked with others to experience and practice using DSC to communicate with other boats. I'm more than willing to share my knowledge. DSC is a nice tool, but it's not as simple as it should/could be. The first thing one needs to do, is read their operating manuals! At least then you have a start on knowing how to set up your own radio to make or receive a DSC call. As for hooking up a "network" to get your chartplotter to talk to your radio, that can be a PITA. Not only finding the correct wire if you have several, but then setting up the right protocol in the radio settings. I'm always willing to help, but no guarantees. :mrgreen: Anyone that would like to practice or experience using their radio's DSC capability to make a call, my MMSI is: 338131849. If you want me to work with you practicing making and receiving calls, please give me your MMSI number so I can program it into my radio's contact list. Lastly, I will have my AIS transmitter on when I'm underway, and it should be showing my MMSI along with the first part of my callsign, Midnight. (Not enough room in the system to input the complete name.) I'll likely be launching from Ladysmith on the 16th. And since AIS works with the VHF line of sight, you may not pick it up if I'm out of range.
Marc, I'm pretty sure you show up on radar. I've painted many boats your size, but distance and sea state affects the returns. I'd be more than happy to take a picture of my radar painting you, if you want to take a run out away from the docks. :)
Very much looking forward to the gathering, and anxious to get on with my drive/tow out west. Just over a week now before I leave Wisconsin! I'm done with all my prior overthinking nonsense! lol! Colby
 
I have always liked the idea of a "class or two" at the CBGT's. Seems just another good reason to be there. Have done some onofficial ones (DSC for one) and always benefited.

Mark said:
"....One website said that, because the low-end Lowrance plotter has only one incoming Com port, I have to choose between having AIS vessels show or DSC vessels show. Another site said I could do both by simply connecting two wires to that port.
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Mark I ran into that with my RM C120. Not enough input ports. The fix (for me) was to ad a "Multiplexer". It is a programmable device that takes in a bunch of input and sorts it all out and the plotter not shows what I need. I don't know all the tech talk, but for the $200 it worked. I have 2 AIS inputs from VHF (SH and ICOM) and input from the Vision Watchmate also. If one is not turned on or working, it picks up from the next one down the line.

(I might have more electronics than some folks think I need, but I am a firm believer in duplicitous double redundancy :wink:

Harvey
SleepyC :moon

1_10_2012_from_Canon_961.highlight.jpg
 
Ok, guys, real good. I think that'll be a big hit at the potluck.

David, delighted you can make it, and we'll squeeze you in somewhere safe. C-16, after all, long was my blood type. Harald, I'll be launching at Twin Bridges late Thursday afternoon if you want to follow me to FH. TB is six miles SE of Anacortes, north of La Conner, under the aforementioned bridge. We could hook up nearer Anacortes, unless you get a better offer.

Is it OK to talk about food? Every year folks hit a grand slam with the marvelous munchables they display. Amazingly good. I think I'm going to bring a cake. Not a sheet cake, a boring, round one. I'm concerned we're not getting enough sugar.
:cake
 
Hi all - I got wonderful offers from the gang to tag along - I am really overwhelmed by how wonderful this community is and can’t wait to meet you all.

As to electronics - dsc - ais etc etc. I have it all but have no idea how to use it haha. I’d love a good discussion on this.
 
Quick question for you guys that cross back and forth into Canada. I'll make two land crossings and two water crossings. I'll be crossing land on I-5 between Blaine and Vancouver, sometime between 5-6p on a Tuesday evening. Anyone familiar with traffic there then? Recommendations for a different crossing point? As for water, I'll be making two crossing there also. Coming out of Ladysmith to Friday Harbor, then back after the gathering. Coming down from Ladysmith, would it be better to check in somewhere besides Friday Harbor, or just check in at Friday Harbor? (I do not plan on stopping anywhere else on the US side unless necessary.) Then going back, I assume Bedwell Harbor is the best place to clear going back? Thanks in advance. Colby
 
Colby, my preference coming from the Gulf Islands is to check in at Roche Harbor. It's easy and responsive, and your boat is less likely to get bounced against the dock from larger wakes. Just stay within the custom dock's parameters, to avoid potential indignation.
 
Catman":2mooqahq said:
Colby, my preference coming from the Gulf Islands is to check in at Roche Harbor. It's easy and responsive, and your boat is less likely to get bounced against the dock from larger wakes. Just stay within the custom dock's parameters, to avoid potential indignation.
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:thup :thup Also, because you are crossing on land, you will not get a customs clearance number to show the Coast Guard, should that situation arise SO BE SURE to ask at the border to have them stamp ypur passport. They will say ypu don't need it, but with a brief explanation I have never been refused.

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
Ordutch1975":uibzf9ny said:
Hi all,

So as we approach the date I need some help. I am new to how the gatherings work. My wife and I intend to take the 17th to 21st off of work for this trip. We live in Portland and either will be taking off the 16th in the evening and putting in on the 17th in the morning or leave very early and put in later in the morning on the 17th. Either way we are both excited to meet you all. The questions I have:

1. Is anyone launching on the 17th and from where that would you mind us tagging along so we can follow someone with more experience? I am not to worried about which port but coming from Portland Bellingham is a long ride - ancortes or south would be ideal.

2. Do we need to contact the harbor since we are coming a bit early?

Thanks all & look forward to meeting you. If you see a C-Dory 23 with a stressed out captain trying to dock that will be us try not to laugh too much :-).

Harald & Heather
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Don't worry about calling ahead to the marina Harald and Heather. We will be headed for inside of H dock and slips 1-20 something on G dock for this event, so if you just pull into one of those sections and let them know you are with the group when you walk up and register, all will be fine. If you are arriving Thursday or early Friday, there will be plenty of slips and maneuvering room for you so don't worry about it. We are launching on the 16th and will be in Friday Harbor early Friday.

Greg
 
Looking for what kind of schedule is planned, or usually happens at this gathering? I'm departing from Wisconsin in less than a week, and my wife is asking if there is a potluck, or what kind of activities usually go on. I know of a few other newbys asking as well. Thanks in advance. Colby
 
Spring is here again Brats!

Ari is looking forward to hosting this gathering for 2018 and details are ready for the group.

When you arrive at the Port of Friday Harbor Marina, there is no need to call in for a slip assignment with the port. They have reserved the inside of H dock and additional slips 1-20+ on G dock for our group. The slips available for our group should be largely marked with flags. Look for the other C-Brats to dock next to of course and we will be monitoring VHF 68 Friday and Saturday if you have any questions as you cruise in, or if you would like any assistance getting moored. Once you are settled at the dock, make note of your slip # and please walk up to the office to get checked in for the weekend.

If you don't want shore power, consider tying up on the walkway dock between H and G to free up more powered slips for others.

Marina Map
http://www.portfridayharbor.org/wp-cont ... 5-x-11.pdf

--A scheduling conflict means our normal Friday dinner spot is not an option this time. With other group options proving too costly, we are planning to head over to Cask and Schooner at 5pm and just grab a table. If anyone wants to join, be there at the same time and we can see how many seats we can fill up. There are many other restaurant options and we expect people to spread out on the town according to preference.

--Saturday morning, starting at 7 a.m., we will have coffee, tea, hot cocoa and baked goods available on the activity float on breakwater A at the end of H dock. This is a good chance to enjoy some comforts and make plans for the day.

--The potluck will be at 5:30 Saturday on breakwater A at the end of H dock. No sign-up necessary, just bring an item to share. Plates and utensils provided. Bring your own drink and chair.

--Boat naming/de-naming will be Saturday evening immediately following the potluck. Be sure to bring some greenery and let us know the boat name in advance if you are interested.

Don't forget to bring your nametags! And we will have blank tags available if anyone needs one when they arrive.

Ari will be trailering up to the Twin Bridges ramp east of Anacortes Wednesday afternoon. We plan to stay our first night at Blakely, Thursday night at Jones, and be at the docks in Friday Harbor before lunch on Friday.

Post any remaining questions here of course, and we will see you out there!

Greg, Cindie, and Aven
 
Greg,

Joyce and I will arrive there on Friday. At present, the boat is in the water at Blaine Harbor. Our plan is to go up there Thurs evening and stay on the boat for an early Friday AM departure. We'll drop the shrimp pots on the way and head in to FH. See you then.
 
Hi Greg and the girls, also fellow brats,

After 6 consecutive years of attending the FH gathering we are going to miss this year. We had contemplated attending in our present boat and catch up with old friends and enjoy the fun of a weekend with the most special people afloat.
Andrea had the opportunity of having a minor surgical procedure carried out, all is well. But it does mean nothing strenuous for her until the end of the month. Best to get this done and enjoy nearly a full boating season starting June 1st. To all who know us, we say hi. To Greg, Cindie, and Aven, thank you for every thing you have done in the past. Keep up the good work.
We will be cruising the San Juans July/August, maybe see some of you then.

Martin and Andrea Bridges
"Once a Brat, always a Brat"

2011 to 2017 22' C-Dory
2017 to present Camano Troll.
 
All, I would love when at FH for someone to teach me how to dock (In a slip) without stressing out. I am deathly afraid of docking (in a slip/harbor). I have never had an issue, not one scratch even when I had my slip at the river and in wind but every time is a nerve wracking afraid. I'm like the car driver who takes turns way too wide because they are afraid of hitting the curb. It reduces my enjoyment and would truly value some good lessons if anyone is willing.

My wife could use some help too she is even newer to piloting and I'd rather not be the one who is always responsible for this.

I'll frankly even pay for the lessons if needed. Its our last hurdle as far as piloting. The 18 open bow was much easier since we could reach out the side. I know this may sound stupid but I am a very high strung person who hates even the smallest scratch so I stress way way way too much over this. Everything I own is impeccable (my poor wife has to put up with me - as you will see she truly is the better half)

We both truly look forward to meeting the gang.

-H
 
Ordutch1975":2wl4d2i8 said:
All, I would love when at FH for someone to teach me how to dock (In a slip) without stressing out. I am deathly afraid of docking (in a slip/harbor). I have never had an issue, not one scratch even when I had my slip at the river and in wind but every time is a nerve wracking afraid. I'm like the car driver who takes turns way too wide because they are afraid of hitting the curb. It reduces my enjoyment and would truly value some good lessons if anyone is willing.

My wife could use some help too she is even newer to piloting and I'd rather not be the one who is always responsible for this.

I'll frankly even pay for the lessons if needed. Its our last hurdle as far as piloting. The 18 open bow was much easier since we could reach out the side. I know this may sound stupid but I am a very high strung person who hates even the smallest scratch so I stress way way way too much over this. Everything I own is impeccable (my poor wife has to put up with me - as you will see she truly is the better half)

We both truly look forward to meeting the gang.

-H
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I'd be happy to help out. I'll be shrimping a lot but I should be able to sneak in some time for lessons. Actually, one of the ways I practiced many years ago was to put down a couple of crab pots and then pretend "dock" to the buoys. So that might be an option also - e.g. practice coming up to shrimp pot buoys.
 
Harald. See your PM. I have a docking procedure that I learned on C-Brats and it really does work. I will work with you next week on this if you would like. It will be fun. See you then. Gary.
 
Hi All,

I have heard many great things of the San Juan islands and finally planned a trip to spend some time in Anacortes and Friday Harbor. Coincidentally this event is going on the same time my Fiancee and I will be there. We will not be boating. We are actually taking the train up from the SF bay area to Seattle and renting a car to drive to Anacortes and taking the Washington State Ferry to Friday Harbor.
We do have plans such as checking out lots/properties, and sightseeing/whale watching along with general touristy activities getting a feel for the area. If anybody has any input on different things for us to do that would be great. It would be nice to meet a few folks as well and maybe check out some other boats. My 22 is the only C Dory I have been on and I'd be interested in seeing a 25, and especially the Tom Cat. I'm not looking to get a new boat anytime soon, but if the Tom Cat lives up to what I have heard and researched it may be my next boat. If anybody on either of those boats would be willing to take us on a short cruise that would be awesome. I would definitely chip in on gas and any other way I could.
I hope I didn't steer too far away from this threads original subject. Thanks all and have a great gathering!
Brian
 
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