MAY 27, 2022
TH E PRESS
&Yachting
Boating
O N T H E D E LTA
Keeping boaters safe on the Delta DAWNMARIE FEHR
T
he Contra Costa County’s Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Unit not only keeps the waterways of the Delta safe, but also must enforce a new law.
The men and women of the unit patrol 80 square miles of water from Richmond to Discovery Bay and protect lives and property through education and enforcement, according to its website. The unit now must also ensure that anyone 45 years of age and younger has obtained a California Boater Card. “That’s a new law we want to let everyone know about,” said Sgt. Erik Steele. “This year, anyone 45 years of age and down operating a vessel propelled by an engine, regardless of the size of the engine, needs a boater card. You can get that online, you can come to our office and we can give you the book.You can do it either way.” Steele has been with the marine unit since 2019. As part see Delta page 3B
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MAY 27, 2022
Buying your first boat? Here’s how to do it
B
oating is a rewarding hobby that can be great for people from all walks of life. Many
people buy a boat because they already have a passion for fishing and want their own vessel to take out on the water. Others may buy a boat because they like the challenge posed by sailing, a demanding yet rewarding hobby. According to Grow Boating, a marine industry organization that aims to generate awareness and interest in boating, retail sales of new boats, marine engines and marine accessories in the United States totaled $20.1 billion in 2017, the latest year for which figures are available. That marked a 9.5 percent increase from the year prior, highlighting the growing popularity of boating. Grow Boating notes that 141.6 million Americans went boating in 2016. The fun of boating compels many people to buy their own boats. For firsttimers, buying a boat can be both exciting and confusing. Prospective buyers must decide on everything from the type of vessel they want to the size of the boat to where to store it when they’re not out
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
The decision to buy a boat requires careful consideration of a host of factors to ensure boaters find the right boat and get the most of their time on the water. on the water. Such decisions can make the process of buying a boat intimidating. However, the following tips might make buying a boat for the first time easier. ♦ Assess your skills. An honest assessment of your skills will help you determine if the time is right to buy a boat. There’s no shame in waiting to buy a boat until you become more
comfortable navigating it. Boating schools can be great resources for novices, teaching them the ins and outs of boating. The United States Coast Guard notes that boating safety courses are offered throughout the country for all types of recreational boaters. ♦ Ask around. Boaters tend to be passionate about boating, and many are
willing to offer advice to novices about boats that may suit their needs. Local marinas can be great resources for firsttime boat buyers. Visit a local marina and seek advice from current boat owners. Some may share their own travails and triumphs from their first boat-buying experience, and those stories can serve as a guide as you begin your own journey to boat ownership. ♦ Be patient. Boats are significant investments, so be patient and exercise due diligence before making a purchase. Do your homework on the type of boat that best suits your needs, skill level and budget. ♦ Do your homework in regard to fees. The cost of owning a boat is more than just the sticker price and the cost of fuel. Much like you would before buying an automobile, get a quote on boating insurance before making a purchase, being as specific as possible in regard to the boat’s make, model and age when asking for an estimate. In addition, get quotes on docking and mooring fees. When buying a boat, people envision taking their boats out as much as possible. That’s only possible for boat owners who fully grasp the full cost of boat ownership and how to finance all of the ancillary expenses of owning a boat. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
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Delta from page 1B of the team, he is a trained marine enforcement officer able to conduct search-andrescue operations above and below the water, enforce laws and regulations governing the operation of vessels, conduct vessel accident investigations, provide assistance to disabled vessels, and maintain a proactive approach toward the suppression of criminal activity in a maritime environment. He Press file photo and his fellow marine officers The Contra Costa County’s Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Unit patrols 80 also provide an on-water square miles of water from Richmond to Discovery Bay. security presence in and around critical infrastructure and key The unit also has a dive team established to resources within Contra Costa County. provide specialized support in handling underwa“Our biggest thing is boater safety,” he said. ter operations. The team responds to a variety of “We want to make sure everyone who comes out incidents including underwater search and recovery with their families for a good day on the water has of property, evidence and bodies. one, and returns to enjoy it again.” “We also want everyone to know about safety Some of the common safety problems marine requirements,” Steele said. “About now, when you patrol officers deal with are: bring your vessel out for the first time this year, do ♦ Children under the age of 13 not wearing life your safety check, make sure everything is working, jackets at all times and you have life jackets for everyone. Make sure ♦ All boats having enough life jackets for all pasyou always have a fire extinguisher on the vessel sengers that meets marine criteria, and you want to make ♦ Removing abandoned vessels from the water sure you always have a sound device on the vessel, before an oil or gasoline leak like a whistle or horn. And always have a type-four Marine patrol units work with the sheriff’s throwable flotation device in case there is an accioffice land units when necessary, and focus on dent and you need to throw it to a swimmer who education as a preventive measure for crimes. They might need some help in the water.” handle theft and deaths on the water, and are In case of emergency, call 911 or the sheriff’s concerned with improving water quality by removal dispatch at 925-646-2441. of derelict and abandoned vessels. To contact Marine Patrol, call 925-427-8507.
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California safety tips for Boating and Waterways Some other safety tips courtesy of the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways ♦ Aside from having life jackets for everyone on board, make sure you have navigation lights and sound signaling devices, which are some of the required equipment needed for a safer voyage. If in doubt about what is required, check out the ABCs of California Boating publication, schedule a vessel safety check with your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons, or download a virtual vessel safety check and inspect your boat. ♦ Considering this year’s drought conditions impacting waterways throughout the state, plan ahead and check the impact of the drought on your favorite waterway before going out on the water. ♦ File a float plan before each boating trip. Share a float plan with a family member or friend including the details of your trip, so your location is known in the event of an emergency.
♦ Check the weather. Before getting underway, check the latest conditions such as weather and check regularly for changing conditions. Besides the Internet, information may be obtained by tuning to local radio stations or the National Weather Radio broadcasts. ♦ Avoid alcohol. Operating a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more is against the law. Impaired operators will be stopped and be arrested even with a lower BAC if the conditions are not safe. Your boat can be impounded. ♦ Boat clean and green. Keep your trash on-board. Take advantage of shore-side facilities to recycle plastic, glass, metal and paper. Used fishing line can be deposited at fishing-line recycling stations. Always carry oil absorbents on board and in your bilge to prevent oily discharges and to prevent fuel spills. Use fuel bibs and dispose of them properly. For more boating and water safety information, visit www. BoatCalifornia.com.
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MAY 27, 2022
Whenever you’re around water, whether it’s
~ a pool, ~ the river, ~ a lake, or ~ on a boat, Remember...
Always Jump Feet First!
Photo by Sherrie Hamilton
Almost anyone who enjoys spending time on the water can benefit from learning to kayak. Above, Stuart Hamilton practices his paddeling strokes on the Mokelumne River.
This water safety message is brought to you by:
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A beginner’s guide to kayaking
K
ayaking is a water sport
water can benefit from learning about
that can be beneficial to the
kayaking and how to get started with
mind and body. Just about
this rewarding activity.
anyone willing to spend a day on the
see Kayaking page 5B
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Kayaking from page 4B The history of kayaking is interesting. The word ‘kayak’ means ‘hunter’s boat,’ and the Inuit used to rely on these small vessels to catch food by sneaking up on their prey from the water’s edge. Some people still hunt and fish from their kayaks, but many are happy to use them for sightseeing and exercising, fresh air and enjoying the open water. ‘Paddlesports are increasing in popularity among Americans who desire to connect with the outdoors,’ said Christine Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation. The foundation and The Coleman Company, Inc., found in a Special Report on Paddlesports that 21.7 million Americans enjoyed paddling on rivers, lakes, streams, and other waterways in 2014, the most recent year for which data is available. Paddlesports include canoeing, rafting, kayaking, and standup paddling. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to learn how to kayak. The outdoor experts at REI say there’s a good chance a novice kayaker will not go out and buy a boat immediately. It’s important to first get a feel for the sport and then go from there. Although it’s not necessary, novices should take paddling lessons to
BOATING & YACHTING hone their skills. Learning the proper technique can help people avoid strain on their neck and back and prevent arm fatigue. Novices should practice on calm waters until their technique is honed. Lakes are a great place to learn, as rivers and places with mild currents can overwhelm those new to the sport. One of the easiest ways to get introduced to kayaking is to go with an experienced paddler or tour company. Such companies charge a set price for an excursion that will provide transportation to the drop site as well as the equipment needed for the voyage. Tours may include travel down several miles of a relatively calm waterway, allowing novice kayakers to get a feel for paddling and take in the scenery. Getting in and out of a kayak can be challenging for beginners. The resource Kayakpaddling.net offers helpful illustrations and animated tutorials about entering and exiting kayaks as well as paddling techniques and safety. Kayakers should bring some essentials along. A dry pack can keep electronics, food and equipment dry. Remember to wear sunscreen and a hat to keep safe from the sun. A life vest also is essential. – Courtesy of Metro Creative
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5B
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MAY 27, 2022
Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina in Bethel Island is a well-rounded resort that also includes a fueling station and an on-site restaurant. Photo courtesy of Sugar Barge
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he original historic sugar barge may be at the bottom of the Delta slough, but the
Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina is at the top of its game. Located at 1440 Sugar Barge Road in Bethel Island, the establishment was named after a cargo barge that carried shipments between Vallejo and San Francisco in the 1940s before being retired to Bethel Island. Owner Tracy Venable describes Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina as a “full, well-rounded resort” in Bethel Island that offers more than just storage for yachts and recreational vehicles.
“We have it all,” Venable says of the amenities. “Not only can you store your boat or RV here, but you’re going to play here.” In addition to the facility’s gated storage area, Sugar Barge has a 24-hour fueling station and an on-site restaurant open Thursdays through Sundays with indoor and outdoor dining. The restaurant will also play host to a series of concert events, featuring musical acts every Saturday through Labor Day. “We work hard at making this a well-run, clean facility,” Venable says. She attributes the ability to maintain that standard to the resort being family-owned and operated by her and her brother as well as the staff. More information, including the full list of musical acts and information on reservations, can be found at www.sugarbarge.com.
The Delta’s Quintessential Waterfront Dining Experience
Multiple boat slips inside the Antioch Marina designated for those joining us by boat. Open at 11 Every Day Happy Hour Monday - Friday 3pm - 6pm Saturday & Sunday 2pm - 5pm Sunday Sessions Live Music Every Sunday 2pm - 5pm Located at the Antioch Marina @ the end of L Street www.smithslandingantioch.com | 925-775-4862
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MAY 27, 2022
A baby ready for boating
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WHERE DO YOU FLOAT YOUR BOAT?
B
aby Easton is all smiles in his very first life jacket. From boating to kayaking to just playing with his big brothers in the pool, his whole family is looking forward to lots of fun times on the water this summer. Water safety experts remind everyone that kids grow quickly and to check life jackets often for proper fit and comfort.
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MAY 27, 2022
Restoring the glory of a Delta favorite
C
ruiser Haven Marina in Cruiser Haven Marina is being restored and wil soon become a favorite Delta destination.
Brentwood is a boater’s oasis located in a secluded cove
within a five-minute drive beyond Orwood Resort, and has been a Delta favorite hot spot since the late 1950s. Located at 7000 Orwood Road, it had developed a reputation for having deteriorated in recent years. But the marina’s new owner and manager, Richard Sellers, said he is committed to restoring the marina to its past glory, helping to create and shape many new fond memories for past, present and future generations. Sellers has been intrigued by Cruiser Haven’s history. Its ideal location has enabled it to play a prominent role in the culture, society, economy and leisure activities of the past, which helped make the local area, and the Delta, what they are today.
Photo courtesy of Cruiser Haven Marina
The property sits on 32 acres, creating an inlet cove on the Orwood Tract. Originally home to Indian refugees, the area was eventually reclaimed by the California Delta Farms company in the early 1900s. According to historical maps and aerial photos, the marina cove also served as a port, supporting a profitable asparagus cannery and then a potato warehouse, which benefited from the cove’s seclusion and calm waters. Cruiser Haven has been witness to the success stories of neighboring thriving agriculture operations
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such as onion and dry grain farms as well as the successful railroad line responsible at one time for transporting over 25% of California’s wheat. Cruiser Haven Marina was founded in the 1950s as the strong recreational boating community on the Delta began to develop, and became essential to the establishment of the much-loved Delta culture. The age-old saying “location is everything” rings true for Cruiser Haven Marina. Its three-minute proximity to fast water and easy access to all areas of the Delta enable wakeboarding, skiing and fishing spots. Other popular attractions such as Ski Beach make Cruiser Haven an ideal location and place it high on Delta boaters’ favorite destinations. Sellers has always seen it as a dream restoration project, and this potential was exactly the motivation that compelled him to acquire the marina as a business and passion project last July. “It doesn’t matter your background, your age, your story, we are continuing to add to a community, and plan to join together with others to create a space where all are accepted, welcomed and celebrated to create memories that last a lifetime,” Sellers said. “We have made so much transformational progress in cleaning up the property and improving on-site amenities and security. We are moving fully forward to restore Cruiser
Haven to the nostalgic, beautiful marina it once was. While there is still much to be done on our journey, I am proud of the marina community we have, and continue to build today. Our tenants enjoy the natural quaintness we have of wildlife, fishing, and location, and also believe in the vision of us becoming a premier private marina of the future. We continue to look forward to adding to our marina community family.” Sellers is a Brentwood resident who has spent most of his free time since his teens enjoying Delta waters and culture. He spent his early years competing in amateur wakeboarding events, slalom skiing and fishing, then began to transition in his mid- to late-30s to boating with family and friends, enjoying fantastic food and drink at restaurants and hot spots throughout the Delta like Moore’s Riverboat and enjoying Mai Tais at the legendary Lost Isle. Sellers spends more time on the Delta than ever with his new project. When not on the water, he can be found landside recreating the marina’s ambience or occasionally taking a short break at his favorite pastime of fishing off the docks. “The water has been my getaway , and it’s grown with me over the years … always adapting and being exactly what I needed, no matter what stage of life I was in. It’s my sanctuary and I know it is – and can be – for others too.” As Cruiser Haven Marina is soon to be the place to be, they are excited to join together with those who have a vision to restore the former glory and become once again the Delta favorite. For more information on Cruiser Haven Marina, visit www.cruiserhaven.com or call 925-634-8000. Ask about the 50% off special they are having now. And tell them you heard about it in The Press.
Boating Marina In Brentwood with quick access to fast water!
ANTIOCH MARINA Where the San Joaquin & Sacramento Rivers Meet
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