PCYC launch monitors channel 69

Call the launch hotline first if the weather is looking bad

774-418-0349

Members are reminded of the following guidelines regarding launch operations:

Per Coast Guard regulations governing the operation of our launches, we are limited to transporting only six passengers at any given time.  One additional person may be allowed as crew if they hold a maritime license.  The BOD requests that only two crew members per boat be transported during peak times and that members pick up their remaining crew and guests at the floats.   Please pick up and drop off your additional crew at one of the 20 minute tie ups and please try to be brief.  

The last launch will leave the float 10 minutes prior to closing. Please do not ask a launch operator to remain on duty longer than scheduled.

The launch will NOT be used for mooring repair or servicing, boat or float towing, equipment hauling, or any other kind of work except the pick up and drop off of passengers and gear.

Well behaved dogs are allowed on the launch provided there is enough room and the operator is willing.

Hours

Summer hours - May 5 (the Day After Opening Night) - September 2:

8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Fall hours September 3 (the Day After Labor Day) – October 14:

9am – 8pm

Closed October 15. (Columbus Day is Last Day)

Tipping

$2/$3 each way is customary and appreciated.

While tipping is not required, it is encouraged.  Launch operators are paid minimum wage and some have offered to work on a volunteer basis at times and depend on tips in order to make a decent wage. 

Safety

MARINA RULES, SECTION 7, Launch Operation

1. The operational area(s) for the Launch shall be inner Salem Harbor out to the Green #23 channel

marker, located off the Salem Power Plant.

2. The Launch is for ferrying PCYC members and their guests from the PCYC floats to and from the

member’s boat in the mooring area. The Launch may also pick up and discharge PCYC members

and their guests at Central Wharf, time permitting.

3. The Launch is for passenger use only and shall not be used for any marina work, mooring or

other work.

4. Passengers are to remain seated at all times.

5. Guests are not allowed on the Launch without a sponsoring member present (excluding the

Launch Operator), either on the Launch or at the requested destination.

6. Only members can request launch service – not guests.

7. The Launch has a six passenger limit (excluding the Launch operator).

8. No fuel, gas, diesel or propane tanks larger than pound may be transported on the Launch.

9. All children under 12 must wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device).

10. The Launch will cease operation once thunder is heard or lightning is observed. The Launch will

resume service 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning.

11. The Launch may be hailed on VHF channel 69.

12. The Launch will not wait at a boat longer than two minutes on top of what is necessary to safely

drop off and pick up passengers.

13. The Launch speed limit is 5 MPH in the club channel and mooring field.

14. Please do not address any problems or issues directly with the launch operators. Should an issue

arise, please call the Chairperson, Commodore, or an officer of the club.

15. The last launch leaves the floats 10 minutes prior to closing.

16. During inclement weather it is advised to call the club or check the club website, Facebook or

Instagram to see if the Launch is operating that day. Members may also check the PCYC Launch

Hotline (1-774-418-0349) to check launch status.

17. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the Launch provided there is enough room and the Launch

Operator is willing.

18. Fishing from the Launch is not allowed.

19. The launch will not wait at your boat longer than two minutes on top of what is necessary to safely drop off and pick up passengers.

Problems with Operators

Please do not address any problems or issues directly with the launch operators.  Should an issue arise, please call the chairperson, commodore, or an officer of the club.

We hope you all have a fun and safe boating season and enjoy all that our club has to offer.

Linda Beneke, Launch Chairman, PCYC, 2023 cell: 978-852-3764

James E. Tanch, Commodore, 2024 cell: 978-761-6166