Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Only In America Test Trip

Posted by OIA on 07/15/10 - 9:52 AM
#13

Thanks Cliff:

And, again, we didn't film one of the best stories, too worried about getting fuel. After we were "lost and out of gas," and the tug boat guys gave us fuel, we made our way back down the Deep Water Channel (originally built so large ships could make their way to Sacramento, and now closed where it reconnects with the Sacramento River). Thirty-five miles downstream we found some semblence of civilization and stopped at a fuel dock.

I walked into the bar/restaurant located at the marina. The place was packed as they were having a b-day party for one of the bartenders. I asked a guy sitting at the bar if I could get fuel?
"No the fuel docks closed." He replied.
"Anyway way to re-open it tonight? We really need fuel." I asked.
"Why, where's your trailer?"
"Oakland."
"Oakland! What size boat are you in?"
"A 17-foot Boston Whaler."
"YOU CAME FROM OAKLAND IN A 17-FOOT BOSTON WHALER?" The comment was loud enough to be heard over the noise of the bar, prompting a few other patrons to join the conversation.
"Yeah, we went up the Deep Water Channel to get to Sacramento. . . "
One guy interrupted me mid-sentence, "Well hell, the Deep Water Channel's been closed for 20 years."
"If only I would have talked with you three hours ago," I said with a smile. "And, we still need to make our way to Sacramento tonight"

This exchange started a flurry of activity, and, please keep in mind, everyone was having a good time talking, enjoying the party. One guy offered to drive us to his home where we could pick up his gas cans. He then explained how he could drive us to the nearest gas station, about five miles away, where we could fill the gas cans and he could then drive us back to marina.

Meanwhile, the first gentleman I spoke with picked up his cell phone and walked out of the the party, leaving a coveted seat at the bar, so he could get reception. After finally finding a spot, about 100 feet away, he called the owner of the fuel dock. That's when the owner climbed in his car and drove back down to the marina where he unlocked everything so we could get some gas.

Only In America