planning on watching fireworks from my boat for first time

[DAJBBSF07]

Hello all, i'm new here, been boating few years now and normall launch boat at point state park when going on the river. We wanna go and watch the fireworks but have few questions and concerns. 1st how far away would i have to launch to find any parking for the boat trler. 2nd are the locks well lit at night, have never went through a lock yet, first time will be daylight though lol. Thanks for any input.. Dan

[lil buggy]

welcome aboard dan,
i suggest you go with another experieneced boat play a little follow the leader.
i am sure someone here can help.

south side is great launch (no locks) short cruise to the point.
but be very careful. at night things look completely different. take your time!
alot can happen quickly.
that is a crazy nite to catchup
but if you are following it will make it much more fun for you and safer for all.
the only special notice i have for you is,
dont be in a hurry!
last time i went to the point from south side for the fireworks afterwards we anchored up just upriver of the ramp and slept for a few hours it had to be about two in the am before it calmed down enough to get in line to get out.

again, i would get some night time at the helm before you make the trip.
just to get a feel for it. it is toatally different than daylight.

smooth sailing and the best of luck

[Grantz]

I have never launched on the 4th so i may not be the best source, but i do know there is a ton of parking at South Side and there is alot at Sharpsburg. You might also want to call Newport marina about launching - you have to pay a small fee, but you don't have the crowds.

As far as locking through at night - it's no big deal. The locks are all lit up like daylight. You just have to be carefull on your aproach and when you are leaving the lock. If you plan on locking through on the 4th - i would do a practice run before hand when the locks arent busy.

Also - I agree 100% with buggy - don't be in a hurry and wait for all the crazies to go ahead - whether locking or pulling your boat out.

[DAJBBSF07]

thanks for the replies, ill give it a shot, i just cant imagine any parking being available anywhere close. hope there is and wont have to fuss with locking. how far from the point can you hear the concerts,, thinkin on headin down then too but im sure cant get close enough to hear unless ur tied up day ahead

[JZelt]

Parking will depend on what time of day you plan on arriving.
Typically, by 11 AM, it starts to get crowded.

We are planning on going down all weekend. (launching each day).

We plan on hanging out on the water for the Chesney concert. If we can hear it great, but not expecting much....
3rd planning on going in front of Homestead to watch their show.
Mon, going down all day and not leaving for the launch until 2 AM.

See a blue Supra with flags on each side of the tower, say hi.

[DAJBBSF07]

Can't get there till late due to wife work schedule .. we just have an old 23 ft celebrity cuddy,,, been good to us for sure, def nothing to hang with the big boys.