Government Cut Oops?

I almost didn't read this post, because of the title. I thought it would be political in nature.

Am I correct in inferring that Government Cut is part of the pass into/out of Miami?

Me too

Those are some serious buoys marking the channel (yes, port of Miami main channel) so it would have left a mark. Haven't heard about it, no securite to report the aid missing but last night sector Miami was broadcasting a securite about an 18 footer stuck on the north jetty which could possibly come loose at high tide and drift in the channel...

I don't know anything about that either but TowBoat US and Seatow both are active there and I'm sure they'd be happy to answer your question. Also, we generally check with the dockmaster at Miami Beach Marina on the way in and I'm sure he'd be aware. If you want any of those numbers, just message me.

Which brings up a question. Do others of you use the tow services to get up to date local knowledge when you feel it's needed? And when cruising have you found the marinas you're heading toward to be as helpful as we have?

I call TowBoat (which we belong to) mostly for the latest local knowledge on Class B or lower inlets we haven't been to before or have not been into for a long time. Sometimes if there is a marina just inside, they are extremely helpful with same, Ponce Inlet would be a good example of that. Typically if there is something standing immediately in the way between them and your safe arrival, the good ones will be helpful.

I ve called the red or yellow guys a few times, either for inlet conditions like st lucie, or a number of ICW problem spots incl. haulover which is definitely the worst of all.

I found that some marina operators don't always understand the concept of draft... They have what seem like big boats coming in and out and assume that they all draw the same. I find the towers more reliable, they are on the water dealing with th problems, not in a marina office

While my experience is very limited, I've found that many along the ICW are quite familiar with draft and with the shoaling in their areas. Their business depends on it. Even with 5-6 ft. drafts, we've found their routing into their marina to be on target and current. Now, I'd imagine that some at larger ports may not be as knowledgeable. I've been surprised at a couple of the marinas off the ICW sending small pilot boats out to meet us, even when it probably wasn't necessary. Nothing kills business more than boats running aground or having damage trying to get to your marina.

I've found the red and yellow guys to be more than willing to provide information. I know many non members contact them as well. We're members of both simply because in different areas one has more presence than the other.