HUNGRY FOR INFO
I always look forward to reading Soundings. It does a great job of offering diverse and informative articles. I enjoyed “Best Dock & Dines” (July), as it consolidated a number of great waterfront restaurants into one story. However, I was disappointed that it was more about the dining experience at each location, rather than how to get there by boat. In the future, perhaps you can provide some basic information, such as mean water depth and docking fees. We keep our boat in Mattituck, New York, and have voyaged to a number of the locations on your list. We know that to make it a fun experience, you need to do more than just call for reservations. – Steve Peterson
My favorite dock & dines are not located in the geographic regions covered in your story, but they are worth mentioning. Spoon River in Belhaven, North Carolina, is run by engaged owners who make sure your visit is exceptional, and Mr. P’s Bistro in Southport, North Carolina, has great Lowcountry cuisine. – John Cottingham
If you are traveling in the Great Lakes region, stop for a meal at the Pink Pony on Mackinac Island, where there’s great food, drinks and views. Better to go before or after peak tourist season. – Patrick McGorisk
If you cover the state of Florida in a future story on dock & dines, don’t forget to mention Lorelei’s in Islamorada. There’s docking, a fun atmosphere and a good mix of tourists and locals. I also recommend Sailfish Marina Restaurant at Singer Island Resort near Palm Beach. There’s a great staff, good view and the best grouper sandwich I’ve ever had. – Jim Bass
If you’re boating in Florida, head for Outriggers in New Smyrna Beach. – Capt. Rick Anderau
I live in Southeast Florida. For true tropical dining, go to Guanabanas in Jupiter, accessed by boating under either of two bridges, each with a 13-foot clearance at high tide. Bands play and tables are outside, and there is a thatched-roof tiki hut if it rains. – Steven Schlamp
MINT CONDITION
In response to your request for readers to share photos of their own boats, I’ve attached a picture of my 1974 Boston Whaler Revenge. I purchased this boat on July 4, 1974. It turned 48 years old this year. I’m now 80 years of age, and I figure I should provide a good home for her and continue the Boston Whaler Legend. – Ted Mentz
NEWS FOR NEWBIES
Thanks for the story “10 Tips To Keep You Safe on the Water” (June), which included advice on what to do before you cast off lines. There seem to be a lot of new boaters out there since Covid. It’s not a bad idea for these newcomers to take a boating safety course and hire an experienced captain to show them the ropes early in the season. This type of action can help keep the new boaters and everyone else safe out there. – John Welch
This article was originally published in the September 2022 issue.
