| 18661 - | Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers |
| 18662 - | Sacramento River, Andrus Is. to Sacramento |
| 18652 - | San Francisco Bay to Antioch |
An excellent map containing a wealth of information is Hal Schell's Delta Map and Guide�. Hal's map is available at most finer Delta harbors, bait shops, and chandleries throughout the greater Delta and Bay Area (or call 209/951-7821).
Yachtsman (800-878-7886) also makes a fine chart book that is extensive, easy to
read, and encompasses the coastal regions as well. It is available at most marine
supply stores throughout the area.
Communications:
First and foremost, the most important piece of equipment
to have is a VHF marine radio! The Coast Guard and local Law Enforcement
all monitor channel 16. The following channels are used in the Bay and
Delta area.
| Radio channels | |
|
06a -
|
Coast Guard - inter-ship safety |
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07a -
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Some Harbors/Commercial - |
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09a -
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BRIDGES - This is the PRIMARY channel for all bridges in the Delta |
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13a -
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Locks - The Montezuma Lock monitors this channel |
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16a -
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Hailing and Distress - calling
channel
Call other vessels on this channel then move to a proper working channel |
|
22a -
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Coast Guard - Liaison |
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68a ,69a, 71a, 72a, 78a -
|
These are the proper channels to use for vessel to vessel communications |
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27, 28, & 86 -
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Stockton Marine operator - upriver from Pittsburg |
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26, 84, & 87 -
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San Francisco Marine Operator - downriver/Susuin from Martinez to San Francisco Bay and beyond. |
|
Whenever you hear the Coast Guard or other agency specify a channel like 78A (alpha), they're indicating the United States channels as opposed to the International channels. It is important to know the difference as the two are not the same. Most newer radios have both the International and U.S. channels so pay attention to your radio settings. |
Cellular
Telephones:
A cell phone/PCS is a marginal second choice for emergency
communications because coverage throughout the Delta area can be spotty
and unreliable. More importantly, other nearby boaters, who may be able
to render assistance, will not be able to hear you. Dialing 911 will get
you the California Highway Patrol; not much help when you've got a problem
on the water. Cell phones are great for ordering pizza and beer (Heineken
of course).
Important Phone Numbers: (updated
11/10/03)
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Drawbridges in the Delta also respond to sound (horn) signals. One prolonged blast (4-6 seconds) followed by one short blast (1 second) sounded within reasonable hearing distance of the bridge. The drawtender will respond in kind, unless the draw cannot be opened, in which case, 5 short blasts will be sounded.
Mariners in California waters should rely on the Eleventh Coast Guard District Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) as the PRIMARY source of marine information, with Broadcast Notice to Mariner (BNM) providing supplementary information. The LNM is a free publication available to any one who requests it. To receive the Eleventh District LNM contact:
Commander (Pow)
Eleventh Coast Guard District
Coast Guard Island, Building 50-6
Alameda, CA 94501-5100
(510) 437-2976
Float
Plan:
A float plan can save your life! Follow this link to
get our float plan form. Print and fill out the form. If you're a berther
here at Lauritzen Yacht Harbor you can fax it or drop it off before you
get underway.
The Courtesy Marine Examination is not required for vessel operation. It is recommended because it's focus is your safety. The CME Decal, when affixed properly to your boat, may (or may not), help avoid boardings by the Coast Guard. For a list of the items that the CME covers see this page CME Items or, you can download the actual form (in PDF format) here CME form ANSC 7012.