June 28 Shuttle launch raft-up

[dawntreader]

I am hoping to trailer my 26M from San Diego to Florida in June. I would love to raft up to watch the final shuttle launch. Is anyone out there planning to go and interested in a raft-up? Any suggestions for where is best to anchor to view the lauch?

[mastreb]

There's a boat ramp at Port Canaveral, which is about 10 miles due south of the launch pad. That seems like it's far, but believe me it's not. From six miles away I felt like I was right there during the launch of STS-131. You'll have to figure out where there are legal anchorages, but the complex is surrounded by a marine preserve that you can probably legally boat in, and you could go right out into the Atlantic and watch it go overhead if you want.

Be aware that delays are common, and you may spend six weeks waiting for a launch to go off. The launch we watched was delayed twice.

Matt

[TAW02]

I am hoping to trailer my 26M from San Diego to Florida in June. I would love to raft up to watch the final shuttle launch. Is anyone out there planning to go and interested in a raft-up? Any suggestions for where is best to anchor to view the lauch?

Check out this site for location;

http://www.ski-island.com/

This is where I go to watch the shuttle go up. It is about as close as you can get by boat or otherwise unless you have a NASA invitation to watch from VIP areas.

Ski Island is a facinating place. Small but very friendly and unsusual with lots to do. You can walk the island, grill,watch the fisherman yank fish outa the surrounding waters as well as people watch and play with manatees. An island tiki bar with food and drink is available and the view of mammoth cruise ships at dock are part of the view as well including Disney Wonder. News trucks are within ear-shot away. They are streaming launch information throughout the day so you don't have to wonder whats happening just 8 miles north of the island haven.

The best place to launch and secure your trailer and vehicle is Ballard park in Melbourne. It's about a half a day sail south of there but the best spot nontheless. (Local knowledge) and it's free.

I suspect my wife and I will be about as well as another MacX friend, so you won't feel loney by all means. My wife cooks for an army each afternoon and depending what Capt Mark slings-up from the sea could mean some pretty good surf and turf (love my steak too).

Tom

[bwharkin]

I see it is now scheduled for July 8th. I am able and ready to come. I would love my 5 old old son the see the last launch of the space shuttle. Need someone with local knowledge to take point and tell us what time and where to meet.

Don't hesitate to email.


Ben