Boatel FAQ

Welcome aboard

Welcome aboard the Griffin Bay Boatel and the sailing vessel "Goose". Let me first say that boat life is very different than life ashore. Goose is off the grid. This means there is nowhere to plug in a hairdryer or microwave. There is no wifi or TV or many of the conveniences and luxuries we are used to ashore but there are nights rocked to sleep under the stars, phosphorescent dinghy rides, beautiful sunrises to the sound of raven song in the cove.

If you would rather spend the night tied up in the marina that can be arranged. Moorage and power comes to $40 a night extra. When in the marina Goose has a working microwave, refrigerator, hot water and of course outlets to charge your electronic devises. Please inquire in advance if this is something you and your party would like arranged. There is a two night minimum for this service and high season will require advanced reservations.

Every time the boat is prepared for new guests water has to be filled, propane checked and refilled linens replaced, laundry done, boat washed and tanks emptied. This is what the cleaning fee covers. That said, letting your furry friends aboard is a not something that many boats allow so please make an effort to keep the spread of hair to a minimum. Please also avoid wearing dark soled or hard soled shoes on the boat.  I would also recommend dressing for fall. The days are hot but the evenings get cold quickly on the water. Spray on sunblock will stain the cockpit so use non spray sunblock when aboard.

There is 8 hr parking by the courthouse but if you plan to bring your car please look into ferry reservation early.

The marina is walking distance from the ferry. Goose is currently anchored 0.2 nautical miles north of slip H6 in the Friday Harbor Marina in a beautiful cove.

The Dinghy is a 13 foot row boat with 2 HP Honda outboard on the back. The boat is designed row and I would encourage at least giving rowing a try. The dinghy or "tender" will be tied up at the Slip H6 (hotel six). Please take some time to educate yourself on the proper operation of outboards.
-Fuel on
-Vent open
-Choke out
-1/4 throttle
-One hand on top of motor one hand to pull cord gently
-Choke in
-Throttle up for forward

There will be PFDs in the boat with gas. You don’t have to wear them. Please be careful when getting in and out of the boat and please refrain from operating the dinghy drunk. The dinghy is rated for 3 people at a time some if your party is bigger you will have to shuttle. The first person off the dinghy steps off with the bowline or "painter" and never jump into the dinghy. Keep an eye on the gas levels. Secure the tender to Goose with bow and stern lines so the tender stays on the fenders. Never tilt the motor without closing the vent and turning off the gas. There is gas at the gas dock. Always use ethanol free fuel. There is a clip on the end of the painter if you don’t trust your knots…

If it’s windy a garbage bag for your clothes might be a good idea or if you are already a savvy waterman or woman, a dry bag is best.  There is a 3 burner stove. There is a solar panel to generate power for the bilge pump, water pressure pump and the fridge. Bring your own power pack for your devices and headlamps are a plus. There are battery powered lights bellow for reading and two solo powered lights in the cockpit. To use the water turn on water pressure on the panel. Turn it off when you are done.

Head
here is a video explaining the use of the toilet

Do not flush any TP down the head!!! 

The Stove

The propane is in the box mounted to the rail and needs to be turned on to light the stove. Please turn it off when done.

Have fun and feel free to ask any questions between 9 and 5.

Welcome to off the grid boat life.

Captain Rhys Balmer
Griffin Bay Adventures

PS

Griffin Bay Adventures is a sailing school and yacht charter company in the San Juans. Our focus is on providing educational adventure afloat. If you are receiving this email you are staying aboard one of our boats while visiting the islands or taking a class. Let me start by saying that this is not your typical bed and breakfast. We offer stays aboard anchored out or in the marina at the dock and those that are staying aboard at anchor will enjoy the peace of off the grid boat living. If you are interested in going out for a day sail or a sailing class please look at the web site for options available or give us a call. Our other vessels are available for “Skippered Charter” which means they come with a captain to sail you and your party to any of the amazing harbors, anchorages, and sites only seen from a float. Rates are as low as $600 a day.

www.griffinbayadventures.com