Cold weather boating

Happy New Year, everyone!

As the winter boating season continues, just a reminder to everyone to be even more aware of safe boating practices in cold weather.

A sad, sad reminder happened on the Eastern Shore this holiday season. Two women boaters were lost in the Chesapeake Bay, but no one knew for days that they were missing. Always file a float plan to let someone know where you're headed and when you'll be back.

This video on the Cold Water Boot Camp will show you the effects of cold water immersion -- and most importantly, how to survive a fall into cold water.

Bluewater Rockfish Tournament Results

Nineteen boats participated in the 2009 Rockfish Tournament on Dec. 12 at Bluewater Yachting Center, Hampton, VA. Then they rocked the Rock Party, with lots of BBQ, chowder and beer.


Here are the winners! (click the image for a slide show)

Place: Boat Name, Angler, Weight, Time, Paid

1: Smooth Operator, Scott Elford, 41.3, 3:05, $1,350
2: Linda Kaye, Justin Scott, 40.8, 2:57, $1,015
3: Feisty Lady, Dean Whitehead, 40.3, 2:05, $680
4: Incentive, Carey Michael, 39.5, 2:33
5: Reel High, Brandon Overall, 38.8, 3:24
6: N-A-Meeting, Richard Barry, 28.5, 2:00
7: Nauti Buoys, Jody Linthicum, 27.3, 3:07

Bluewater Rockfish Tournament this weekend!

This just in from our friends at Bluewater Yachting Center in Hampton, VA:

"We have waived the late registration fee! Get your entry in now! Don't miss out! If you need any further information, call us at (757) 723-0793 or e-mail us at info@BluewaterYachtSales.com."

You can see details on their Website and on the Bluewater Yacht Sales FaceBook page. Become a fan!

Hampton Lighted Boat Parade 2009 slide show

Click the arrow to see a slide show of the Dec. 6 Lighted Boat Parade in Downtown Hampton! Rescheduled from Saturday due to inclement weather, a good crowd turned out for the 21st annual event.

Boaters enjoy Thanksgiving!

Here's a blog post from the "Adventures of Act III" who spent a nice Thanksgiving at Hampton Public Piers and dinner at the Crowne Plaza!

Act III Thanksgiving in Hampton, VA

Hampton Boat Parade postponed due to weather

Due to Severe Weather Conditions Predicted for Saturday, The Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade has been postponed until Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009.
The parade will begin at 6 pm along the Downtown Hampton Waterfront.
Please contact the Hampton Public Piers office at 757-727-1276 with any questions.

Hampton Lighted Boat Parade

Watch a video of last year's Lighted Boat Parade

Cruise into the spirit of the holiday season as the 21st annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade (LBP), presented by Old Point National Bank, returns to Southeastern Virginia on December 5, 2009. Over 30 boats are expected to participate in this FREE nautical light show.

Beginning at 7:15 p.m., this highly anticipated parade of illuminated power and sail boats will be visible from anywhere along the Hampton River. However, spectators wanting to hear the narration will want to find a spot near the former Cousteau Society building (now the Hampton Maritime Center). Those who don’t have a boat but want to join the action can board the Miss Hampton II tour boat. Spectators interested in riding on the Miss Hampton II are encouraged to make reservations by calling 757/722-9102. The admission is an unwrapped toy that will be donated to Toys for Tots.

Captains who wish to enter their vessel in the parade are encouraged to contact Gregory Harrison at 757/727-1276. The estimated length of the LBP is 30-45 minutes.

This year, the Hampton Public Piers will sponsor a less fortunate family or families for the holidays and is asking the public to please donate at least one non-perishable food item and/or an unwrapped toy to help a family or families in need. All items collected during the 21^st annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade will go to Toys for Tots.