Carver Owners Forum

Morn' All,

So it seems like this should have an easy answer but I am conflicted. I called the city, and the guy in charge of the workers thought it MIGHT BE 3 short blasts of the horn. I looked do at a iPad app and it states that the Coast Guard rules state, '3 long, 4-6 seconds, blasts, and 1 short, 1 second, blast'. Thoughts?

I changed my dock location to up river to save myself 75% of my dock costs! but now I have the bridge to deal with

Thanks,

Steve

As you approach the bridge there should be a blue sign with what looks like a telephone receiver with a lightning bolt through it. This will give you the radio frequencies that the bridge monitors (usually 16 and 13 or 9). It is customary, at least in most areas, to contact the bridge tender by VHF radio to request an opening, however, there is a sound signal that can be used.

The sound signal to contact the bridge is one prolonged blast followed within 3 seconds with one short blast. The bridge tender will acknowledge an OK with the same signal. If there is a problem in opening at that time the bridge tender will answer with a "NO" by sounding five short blasts. You acknowledge your understanding of the "NO" by responding with five short blasts.

I will have to go down and take a look. I wish the boat was not as high so I could just avoid it all together.

Just join Active Captain. As you're cruising, you can see every bridge on your chart. The details section of each bridge lists the vertical clearance, the opening restrictions, and most have a phone number. I used to hail bridges on VHF channel 13, but now call them directly.

Seems there are different ways for different areas. Here in St Joe, there are two bridges, Blossomland and BiCentenial. One will open every half hour on the 12 and 6, the other every half hour on the 3 and 9. If no boats are present, it won't open.

To alert the bridge master you are waiting, one blast of the horn is all it takes.
He does not acknowledge your blast.

The same is true here. Technically, its one long blast followed by 2 short blasts - but it has devolved to one short blast. The 5 short blasts that CYO is referring to is bizarre, as that also refers to a vessel with no directional ability - not in control.