Olcott Boat Launch Status: Open Or Closed?

If you're planning a trip to Olcott and want to launch your boat, it's important to know the status of the boat launch facilities. Is the Olcott boat launch open or closed? This is an important question to ask, especially considering the unpredictable water levels in the area.

Olcott boat launch is open to the public

The Olcott boat launch in New York is open to the public. It is a good launch right near the mouth of the creek with easy access to the lake. There is a $5 per kayak charge to use the boat launch. There are year-round bathrooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities. However, there is no kayak-specific launch, only a concrete ramp. The concrete can get slippery in warm weather and pose a falling hazard.

The Olcott Yacht Club (OYC) also operates a full Haul/Launch/Storage facility, including a haul-out slip, 20-ton travel lift, and boom truck. This service is provided for OYC members and reciprocal clubs, with members receiving preference when at capacity.

The Olcott boat launch is a great option for those looking to get out on the water, with three straight days of sunny, warm weather predicted. However, due to high water levels, it is recommended to call ahead or check online to ensure the launch is still open, as some docks may be under water or unusable.

For those with kayaks, be mindful that there is no dedicated kayak launch, and the concrete ramp can be slippery during warm weather. Overall, the Olcott boat launch provides a convenient and accessible entry point to Lake Ontario for boaters and kayakers alike.

Kayak launch at Olcott Harbour costs $5

If you're looking to launch your kayak at Olcott Harbour, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, the launch is open and accessible, with good access to the lake right near the mouth of the creek. There is, however, a charge of $5 per kayak to use the boat launch, and it's important to note that there is no kayak-specific launch available. The launch site consists of a concrete ramp, so be cautious as concrete can get very slippery in warm weather and may pose a falling hazard.

Olcott Harbour is located on 18 Mile Creek, which flows into Lake Ontario. The launch site provides easy access to the lake, and there is also a good 2-mile paddle upstream to the burn dam if you're looking for a longer kayaking trip. The facilities at the launch include year-round bathrooms, and it is wheelchair accessible.

It's always a good idea to check the weather conditions and water levels before heading out onto the lake. Water levels can sometimes be high, rendering some launches and docks unusable. In such cases, it is advisable to call ahead or check online to ensure the launch you plan to use is open. There may also be debris floating in the water, so caution is recommended when venturing out.

When launching your kayak, be mindful of the concrete ramp and take precautions to avoid damaging your kayak. The concrete can also be slippery, so take care when entering and exiting your kayak. Remember to follow any posted rules and regulations at the launch site and on the water for a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience at Olcott Harbour.

No sand, low dock, or mud bank to launch a kayak

If you're looking to launch a kayak at Olcott, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while there is a boat launch available, there is no specific kayak launch. This means that kayakers will have to make do with the concrete ramp that is available for boats. This may not be ideal, as concrete can be slippery in warm weather and could pose a falling hazard. Additionally, there is no sand, low dock, or even mud accessible bank that can be used as an alternative launch point for kayaks. The nearest body of water, 18 Mile Creek, does have a launch right near its mouth, providing easy access to Lake Ontario, but it may not be the best option for those looking to launch kayaks due to the lack of a gentle slope or shallow water entry point.

That being said, the Olcott boat launch does offer some advantages for kayakers. For one, it provides year-round bathroom access and is wheelchair accessible. Additionally, there is a charge of only $5 per kayak to use the boat launch, which is relatively affordable compared to other launch sites. Nonetheless, the lack of a sandy beach, low dock, or muddy bank may deter some kayakers who are looking for an easier and safer way to enter and exit the water.

When launching a kayak, it is important to consider the type of water entry point that is available. Sandy beaches or shallow water entry points are generally preferred as they allow for a gentle and gradual entry into the water. This can be especially important for beginners or those who are less physically able. A concrete ramp, such as the one at Olcott, can be more challenging and may require more upper-body strength and technique to navigate.

In addition, the absence of a low dock or muddy bank can also pose challenges for kayakers. A low dock can provide a stable platform for launching and retrieving a kayak, especially for those who are less mobile or unstable on their feet. A muddy bank can also provide a natural and gentle slope for entering and exiting the water, which can be beneficial for kayakers of all skill levels. However, at Olcott, kayakers will need to be prepared for a more challenging launch and retrieval process due to the lack of these features.

Overall, while the Olcott boat launch is functional and accessible in terms of facilities, it may not be the most ideal or safest option for kayakers due to the lack of sand, a low dock, or a mud bank. Kayakers will need to exercise caution and be prepared for a more difficult launch and retrieval process when using this site. It is always a good idea to call ahead or check online for the latest information and to be aware of any potential hazards before venturing out.

Olcott Yacht Club offers a haul/launch/storage facility

The Olcott Yacht Club (OYC) offers a comprehensive haul/launch/storage facility, catering to a range of boating needs. The facility is equipped with a haul-out slip, a 20-ton travel lift, and a boom truck. This service is available for OYC members and reciprocals of other clubs, with members receiving priority during peak times.

The OYC haul/launch/storage facility provides a secure and well-maintained space for boat owners. The boats are stored in a well-lit and fenced parking lot and yard, ensuring safety and easy accessibility. For those seeking winter storage, the OYC offers competitive rates. The 2023 pricing for OYC members is $16 per foot, while members of reciprocal clubs are charged $25 per foot.

In addition to storage, the OYC also offers a haul and relaunch service for $18 per foot. The mast fee, which covers both the raising and lowering of the mast, is $75 for OYC members and $200 for members of reciprocal clubs. For those who prefer summer storage, the OYC has a separate agreement for dinghies and dry-sail boats.

The Olcott boat launch, located on 18 Mile Creek in Lake Ontario, provides convenient access to the lake. It is important to note that there is a $5 per kayak charge for utilising the boat launch, and there is no kayak-specific launch available. The launch site features year-round bathrooms and is wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenience and inclusivity for all paddlers.

Overall, the Olcott Yacht Club's haul/launch/storage facility offers a comprehensive range of services to cater to the diverse needs of boaters and paddlers. With their well-equipped facility, secure storage options, and convenient launch access, the OYC is a reliable choice for those seeking hassle-free boating experiences on Lake Ontario.

Olcott boat launch is open despite high water levels

Olcott Boat Launch Open Despite High Water Levels

Olcott boat launch is currently open, providing access to Lake Ontario for boating and fishing enthusiasts. This is welcome news for those eager to get out on the water, especially with the sunny and warm weather forecast for the coming weekend. However, it is important to note that high water levels have impacted some launches and docks, making them unusable.

The Olcott boat launch, located at the mouth of 18 Mile Creek, offers a convenient entry point to the lake. For those looking to paddle, there is a $5 charge per kayak to use the boat launch. It is important to keep in mind that there is no kayak-specific launch at this location. The concrete ramp can be slippery in warm weather, so caution is advised to avoid any accidents.

While the Olcott boat launch is operational, other locations have faced closures or restricted use due to high water levels. The Oak Orchard State boat launch on Archbald Road, for example, is currently closed until further notice. Similarly, the Genesee River launch and the Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park launch are also closed.

Boaters are advised to exercise caution when venturing out, as there is floating debris on most waters. Additionally, a no-wake zone is in effect within 1,000 feet of the shoreline, with a speed limit of 5 mph. With the right preparations and awareness of the conditions, boaters can still enjoy a great day out on Lake Ontario, taking advantage of the open launches like Olcott, Wilson, Fort Niagara, and the Town of Newfane Marina.

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