ramp database

A forum for discussing topics relating to MacGregor Powersailor Sailboats
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Oskar 26M
First Officer
Posts: 411
Joined: Sun Mar 23, 2008 10:04 pm
Sailboat: MacGregor 26M
Location: Perth Australia, 2007 26M, 60hp E-tec

Post by Oskar 26M »

If I can figure out how to post the link, the Sportsfish Australia web site might be helpful in arriving at a standardized format for the database.

http://www.sportsfish.com.au/pages/boat ... ramps.html
[Sadly, they have yet to list the ramps in my home State of Western Australia although they say they are now working on it.]

Standardization is (IMHO) the key to any successful database, although I also believe there should be room to general comments to convey those things not covered by the standard. The key message should convey enough basic information so that a prospective visitor has some idea of what to expect. Things taken for granted by locals, such as docks associated with the ramps in my case, might simply not exist at some "boat ramps"

Key features of those listings I've looked at in Sportsfish Australia are:

* Photo- of the actual ramps (and dock if there is one) rather than (or perhaps supported by) touristy photos of the general area or marina shop
* Access- for boat and tow vehicle including: vehicle road surfaces, turning circles, power-line or other hazards, as well as tides, seasonal influences or other marine access issues.
*Facilities - availability of water, fuel, toilets, washdown, onshore BBQs, chandlery, mechanics or repairs, food, bait supplies etc
* Parking- availability and security of parking for the tow beast and trailer
* Fees- if, how and when fees are charged and how much
* General- the benefits and things to watch out for like under-mining of the ramp end
* Submitted by- login or user-name of the member submitting the info (usually a local) so PM's or email can be used to get further information if required

Here are a couple of example pages
* Northern Territory (I'd be hesitant about taking Oskar to some of these) http://www.sportsfish.com.au/boating/bo ... itory.html
and
* Victoria (parts of)
http://www.sportsfish.com.au/boating/bo ... toria.html
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