The family and I are heading to Orange beach, AL next week (Phenoix 7), I know of a few spots where I used to launch BUT They required 4 wheeled drive to get through some soft spots....
So... does anyone know of a
launch
near the end of Orange Beach Al. where I can
launch
my Hobie? I have beachwheels to roll any distance needed. I prefer a
launch area
on the gulf side but not required.
Thanks
Todd H
I have not done this but just over the bridge on Perdidio Key there is a beach access you might be able to put the boat on the sand there. You would be just outside the bridge. Watch out for the rocks if you go out the pass you'll want to stay close to the channel. Also the swells can be heavy in the pass.
I know there is a boat ramp on Ono Island, but it is private. There are also several marinas around but they are located in more protected waters.
Good Luck and let us know where you end up launching.
Kent
I just spoke to my brother in law who launches a small power boat at the end of Marina Rd. off of Hwy 161 Orange Beach Parkway, its called Boggy Point Boat ramp. Try this link: http:/
Good luck!
Kent
Cool, I'll look into the boat launches... Has anyone tried the location in the attached map? It looks like a public parking on the beach side. If their is no fence, can I wheel the boat to the beach?
possible beachcat launch area?
I have used the one at Boggy Point at the end of Marina Rd, and it worked great, but you have to pick your times due to strong currents if you plan on sailing out under the bridge, especially in light wind conditions.
If you have Cat Tracks or similar beach wheels, the Gulf side you looked at might work just fine.
I wouldn't recommend the Cotton Bayou launch on the north side of the road due to extreme powerboat congestion and parking difficulties in the summer. Powerboaters don't like cat sailors, and unless you are a speed launcher, it just isn't worth the possible consequences. I have seen too many confrontations to make that seem like a good choice. It's hard enough to get in and out in a small powerboat on a weekend.
If you have Cat Tracks or similar beach wheels, the Gulf side you looked at might work just fine.
I wouldn't recommend the Cotton Bayou launch on the north side of the road due to extreme powerboat congestion and parking difficulties in the summer. Powerboaters don't like cat sailors, and unless you are a speed launcher, it just isn't worth the possible consequences. I have seen too many confrontations to make that seem like a good choice. It's hard enough to get in and out in a small powerboat on a weekend.
Thanks,
I think I'll try the
public
parking area on the gulf side. I know of a beach access road next to one of the last condos before the bridge but it would need 4 wheel drive to get the boat in and out quickly, and I'm trying to avoid driving the Jeep (92 wrangler) due to gas cost. My Honda CRV can pull the hobie without any issues, its just a launching location is limited in that area.
thanks again. If you have any other suggestions let me know... Also I'll most likely be the only cat with blue sails on the beach.... EVERYONE is more than welcome to come over and say
Hi
and get a ride.
Todd H