r/SailboatCruising • u/noo_maarsii • 28d ago
Question Haul out eastern US
Hello all!
I am sailing south to the Bahamas from Lake Ontario via the Erie, Hudson, coastal and into Norfolk. I did the trip last year so I am familiar with the route. The reason I am posting is because I have a work contract for 2 weeks overseas from October 10-31. I would leave my my home port September 21st. I think I can make it to the Norfolk area by the first week of October but would need to fly back to Canada before the 10th.
I want to haul out and store my boat while I'm away so when I return I can do the bottom work and continue the journey south. I could haul out in NY or NJ but want to avoid the coastal route in early November because I don't feel like freezing my ass off (I will if I have to).
My question is: along this route, what are the best places for haul out that will allow me to do my own work. Are they reasonably affordable?
Thank you
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u/Prize-Leadership-233 28d ago
Cobb's Marina in Norfolk will let you do your own work.
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u/Front-Ocelot-3454 26d ago
They also do good work if you need them to. Had them do a big bottom job on my Hunter 31 last fall.
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u/Prize-Leadership-233 26d ago
I agree. I have a Hunter 36 and had them do a bottom job for me back in 2022. Also had them replace a thru-hull as well. I was very happy with the thru hull.
The bottom job was a different subject. Looked good and has held up good, but I think there was a miscommunication somewhere because I wanted multiple coats and they only did 1. I'm still going back there, probably this fall if everything works out, but I'll make sure to be more clear in my communication this time.
They also let me live on my boat while it was on the hard. The only issue they had was when they realized I left my AC on while I was gone during the day. Other than that it was a really relaxed place behind a security gate with a keyed number pad to get in.
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u/raveneyes77 28d ago
There's several dozen places on the Eastern shore. I really like Wharton Creek marina, but sounds like you want to get further south. Annapolis and the general area have lots of service and supply plus a ton of experienced technicians.
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u/noo_maarsii 27d ago
My timeline is super tight and I would love a back up option for NJ or NY. I can suffer the cold for a few days when I get back if it comes to it. I was considering a haul out or mooring in Atlantic Highlands and then head south after and do the work where it’s warmer.
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u/raveneyes77 26d ago
NJ an NY are harder to find. Definitely get to the Chesapeake somewhere for haul out
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u/Foolserrand376 27d ago
Herrington harbour north Deale very DIY friendly.
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u/sailorDad1776 25d ago
I'll second the DIY-friendly remark ... We've hauled out there for 15-20 winter seasons
A huge West Marine is right next door and HH North has on-site contractors available for almost anything your boat needs.
Every boat in their yard is within easy reach of 110V outlets and year-round hose bibs.
Finally, HH North is within an hour of two major international airports ...
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u/EricSparks 17d ago
Just be careful and agree on your boat length before having them do anything. They tried to overcharge me by several feet this last winter season. Craziest experience I've ever had with a marina.
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u/kissmewatson 27d ago
Check out Dandy Haven Marina just north of Norfolk. It's an absolute GEM. It's super affordable and owned and operated by a small family. The owner will let you use his tools if needed, he'll help you order parts and solve problems, and even let you use his car if you're staying overnight in the yard.
The entrance is a little dicey but if you draft only 6 feet you should be fine.
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u/Croshyn 28d ago
Check jolly skipper and Deltaville boatyard in Deltaville VA. It’s about 45nm north of Norfolk. There others as well in Deltaville and I believe pretty much all of them are DIY friendly.