If you like to be close to the action, anchoring out to watch fireworks means anchoring in a crowd. Annapolis fireworks, held off the U.S. Naval Academy wall, one mile from the SpinSheet headquarters, attracts a large crowd. We asked two experts for some safe anchoring tips.
“There’s a restricted zone around the Naval Academy seawall,” says Chuck Newman (formerly) at the Annapolis Harbormaster’s office. “The Coast Guard, DNR police, and Harbormaster’s vessels will be there to make sure you stay clear of it.” In many towns up and down the Bay, there will be off-limits areas, too, so pay attention to control boats. If other boats are not anchored in a spot, there may be a reason for it. Pay attention.
Remember, when at anchor, use only your anchor light. When you weigh anchor, turn on nav lights.
Newman adds, “Have a chart with you. Know how deep the water is.” Early birds may grab mooring balls for $35 (in Annapolis) and not worry about depth or others anchored too close for comfort. Mooring and docking prices vary by town, so inquire before you go.
Captain Rick Franke, who has navigated anchored crowds from various tour boats, notes the proper use of lights: “Running lights should be off, and a single white anchor light on, while the boat is at anchor. As soon as the anchor comes up, the running lights should be on. Doing this correctly lets other boaters know if you are moving or not. Use a search light or spot light sparingly, and keep it aimed low and avoid shining it directly at other boat operators. It takes most people’s eyes more than a half hour to become adjusted to the dark. One split second flash of a spot light in the eyes can destroy that night vision.”
Franke adds, “When anchoring, remember to let out enough line (scope) to ensure your anchor will hold. Dragging anchor through the spectator fleet will definitely make you unpopular! Also try not to anchor too close to other boats.” Some suggest a three-boat-length distance from other boats.
Kids and poor swimmers should wear lifejackets at all times. VHF channels 13 and 17 broadcast general safety messages including weather forecasts. In the event of an emergency, boaters can communicate with authorities on radio VHF 16. Note that the maximum speed in an event area is six knots.
Newman says, “At the end of the show, the river looks like white water rapids with all those wakes. Boats are rocking and rolling. Go slow, and keep your eyes open.”
Franke says, “Give commercial vessels, such as water taxis and tour boats, room to maneuver. They are often larger and can be unwieldy in close quarters. Use common sense and courtesy. For many boat operators, this is the only time they are out at night, so expect the unexpected. Remember that you have a responsibility to avoid a collision, regardless of who has the right of way. Keep your speed down, keep a sharp lookout, and have a non-drinking designated operator at the helm.”
Have a happy, safe holiday, and enjoy the shows!
Here's a note from BoatU.S.: Paddlers, resist the urge: Stand up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes are great – but not in the middle of a nighttime fireworks display. Wearing a headlamp or hanging glowsticks around your neck isn’t enough to be seen and may confuse other boaters. If you do insist on going out, stay very close to shore and away from any boating traffic, have USCG-approved nav lights, and keep clear of any channels, marinas or launch ramp areas. Assume that no one can see you.
