Pier 1 1/2 is Hopping
©2009 Latitude 38 Media, LLC
In the December 5 edition of ‘Lectronic, as well as the January issue of Latitude 38, we reported on the Bay’s best kept secret: Pier 1½, a free public dock next-door to the Ferry Building. Well, it’s not such a secret anymore, as Race Editor Rob Grant found out this weekend when he tried to tie up the Latitude photoboat. "It was packed," Grant reported. "And when I asked some folks how they found out about the dock, they said they read it in Latitude!"
©2009 Latitude 38 Media, LLC
Grant points out that the surge from ferries and commercial traffic is clearly the common-sense reasoning behind the dock’s ‘no rafting’ rule, and suggests doubling up on docklines and adding spring lines, no matter how long you plan to stay. The 180-ft dock, open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., has a three-hour limit and can accommodate boats up to 40 feet.
It is a convenient spot. However, BEWARE! There can be a weird, strong current on the West end, that almost sucked my boat under the restaurant! It was a dead calm morning, and the slot looked like a Mill pond. There was NO indication of a current upon approach. I later talked to a water taxi skipper who confirmed he had had experienced the same issue.
Back into that last Westerly spot or avoid it. DO NOT ATTEMPT A U-TURN!
Why are the docks closed? Sailed there June 10th and a hand-painted sign said, “Docks Closed.”