Reviews from John Medlin (5)

Marina Review for Illinois Valley Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: John Medlin , Knot So Fast, on Oct 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Challenging entrance & fuel dock when strong winds; low water on Illinois River had our alarm going off (3'10" draft). Narrow fairway to fuel dock and our 18.5 freeboard had us blowing around (no thrusters). Friendly and helpful dockhand, Chris, as we came in for fuel & docking. Post season, so much is closed. Docks in good shape though low water is causing walkways to tilt in some locations (floats are grounded on land side causing deck to tilt).

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Note: Peoria Pool 440.34

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Coinjock Marina & Restaurant

Reviewed by: John Medlin , Knot So Fast, on Jun 18, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Agree with other reviewers but they do stack you in tight. Our pulpit was over the swim platform of the boat ahead of us on our first night. The marina staff was friendly and helpful and the ship store was the best we've come across so far. Additionally, the staff was helpful in acquiring an engine mechanic for a minor job. And yes, the prime rib was very good, lightly seasoned and tender. There were other menu items that were equally good.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Lamb's Marina

Reviewed by: John Medlin , Knot So Fast, on Jun 18, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Agree it's a hidden gem & at $35 the best deal we have come across. We stayed 3 days.
A great place, small and personal. The owner, Larry, and the 'unoffical' dockhand, Randy, were very helpful. Larry twice loaned the marina truck for trips into town; Randy was willing to drop what he was doing to assist. The on-site restaurant, Lamb's Seafood had different specials daily. There is a Dollar General just down the street (1/4 mile). We dropped our dinghy and went crappie fishing in nearby creeks. Facilities -- laundries, showers, lounge -- were good. Restaurant staff, especially Ms. Carol, were very personable and starting next week will be open for breakfast @6:30.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Safe Harbor Skull Creek

Reviewed by: John Medlin , Knot So Fast, on May 28, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Very good and helpful staff. Called for transient reservation and they promptly sent all the necessary info to email. On day of arrival, they called to confirm our status and estimated arrival. Upon arrival, two on the dock to assist which was very helpful as the west wind was blowing us into the dock. Skull Creek Dock House restaurant is permanently closed. Walked about 1.5 mi to Hudsons and had a very good meal; no reservations, get there early. By the time we left after dinner (6:30), there was a 1.5 hr wait. Nice walk there & back. Showers (2) were clean with very good water pressure. Laundry has only one washer & dryer. No lounge.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Sunbury Crab Co. Restaurant & Marina

Reviewed by: John Medlin , Knot So Fast, on Apr 2, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

No VHF monitoring; must call and ask for marina assistance. Well protected from southern winds we had last night; plenty of maneuvering room to line up for docking. If you're coming in & want to eat @the restaurant, call for reservations, especially on weekend. We've always enjoyed the food. Not every dock pedestal has 50A.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer