Washington (DC) Channel anchorage permission

[wwilson]

I think that I have heard that recreational boats need to contact a "harbormaster" for permission to anchor in the Washington (DC) Channel. Can anyone enlighten me on this issue and if so, may contact be made via VHF or is shoe-leather the required means of contact?

Wayne

[SVAuspicious]

Hello Wayne.

Two years ago when I wintered at Gangplank there was no such requirement.

I suggest calling USCG station Washington.

sail fast, dave

[wwilson]

Hi Dave,

Thanks for the info. I'm not sure where I got the idea that "permission" was required, most likely right here in this forum. I'll do a search next.

wrt to your "sail fast", I try... but the autopilot still makes me look like a beginner! ;-)

Wayne

[wwilson]

Found it - apologies SailNet. It wasn't here that I read it after-all.

"Guide to Cruising Chesapeake Bay", section 5 - The Potomac River;

"Metropolitan Police Harbor Branch... has authority over the anchorage... Contact them on Chanel 16 or 17 for permission to stay up to five days at anchorage..."

Wayne