In the Spring of 2002, the Virgin Islands National Park will initiate fees for the overnight use of moorings and overnight anchoring in park waters. Day use of park waters will not be subject to a user fee. Any vessel moored or anchored in park waters between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. will be required to pay a fee based on vessel size as follows:
60 feet or less = $15 for mooring, $10 for anchoring
60-75 feet = $15 for anchoring (moorings limited to 60' and under)
over 75' = $25 for anchoring
We do not have an exact start date for this program, as the Park is still in the process of letting the contract for collection. Target date is April 1, 2002.
REMINDERS FOR MARINERS
Anchors and anchor chains damage seagrasses, corals, and other marine life. Where a mooring is not available, anchor in sand.
No anchoring is permitted within the park boundaries on the south side of St. John. This includes the area from Cocoloba Cay to Ram Head.
Boats greater than 210 feet may not anchor in park waters.
Boats from 125 to 210 feet (length on deck) may anchor only anchor in Francis Bay, in sand and depths greater than 50 feet.
It is unlawful to enter or anchor in designated swim areas marked by 'NO BOATS" buoys. Anchor at least 200 feet from all buoys.
Boats 26 feet or less may access the beach using the channel marked by red and green buoys. Boat's may not anchor in the hannel. This is for drop-off and pick-up only.
USING THE NATIONAL PARK MOORING SYSTEM
Moorings are safe, easy to use, and eliminate the need to anchor. The moorings are fixed to the bottom with either a sand screw or a stainless steel eye-bolt which is cemented directly into coral pavement. The floating mooring line (painter) is picked up and tied to a short bow line on the vessel.
Park mooring balls are white with a blue stripe; they are for use by boats 55 feet or less, on deck. No rafting of boats or setting of anchors is permitted while on a mooring. Please tie the boat's bow line to the mooring painter line.
All moorings are checked and maintained by Park Service personnel. However, the National Park Service does not accept liability for any damage, loss, or injury resulting from a defective mooring. Please help to keep the moorings safe and report any defects immediately to a park ranger. The moorings are not designed for rough weather use. In high wind or heavy sea conditions, it is recommended that vessels anchor in a protected bay.
HOW TO ANCHOR
Proper anchoring is an integral part of safe boat handling. Yachting manuals supply the basics on proper anchoring techniques. However, a few common rules apply to most anchoring situations.
When selecting an anchorage, remember:
shallow water is preferred; avoid coral and seagrass beds.
allow for full 360 degree swing; choose an area free of obstacles.
Be sure crew, anchor, and anchor line are ready.
If possible, head into the wind or current; be alert for any changes.
Observe water depth and bottom prior to lowering anchor.
Lower the anchor over the side; NEVER throw the anchor.
Slowly play out the anchor line, avoid dropping the anchor line in a useless pile on the bottom.
Allow time for the anchor to catch hold; let the current drift the boat back. Once the anchor is set, fasten the anchor line.
Put the boat in reverse, creating a steady strain on the anchor line to dig in the anchor and ensure it is holding. Plowing the bottom won't help; pull up the anchor and begin again.
Check for dragging - a slight vibration on the anchor line and/or a visible jerk on the line.
Locate stationary landmarks; periodically check for changes in alignment.
USING THE NATIONAL PARK MOORING SYSTEM
