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Note: I reference a lot of external links because I’m sharing information on topics that I don’t have a lot of knowledge or experience on, but I found this topic very interesting nonetheless.
What is a Harbormaster?
Well, that’s a good question. Until I moved up north near Lake Michigan, and we started researching summer marinas for SV Zeke E Boy, I never really heard of a harbormaster. When we stopped by the Michigan City Port Authority, Kyle asked to speak to the “harbormaster” about renting a slip for the summer.
Hmmm, so what exactly is a harbormaster? According to wikipedia, “the harbormaster is an official responsible for enforcing the regulations of a particular harbor or port to ensure the safety of navigation, the security of the harbor and the correct operation of the port facilities.”
Historically, all harbormasters were naval officers, but today, they may be a civilian or commissioned naval officer of any rank with seafaring knowledge and experience. It depends on the type (public, private, military) or size of the port whether a civilian or military captain from the US Coast Guard is the harbormaster.
US Navy or US Coast Guard
This got me thinking – what’s the difference between the US Navy and the US Coast Guard? The United States Coast Guard (USCG), in its peacetime role with the Department of Homeland Security, is the maritime security, search and rescue, and law enforcement service branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the country’s eight uniformed services. (Ok, now we threw in another government agency, DHS … something else to learn about.)
In times of war, the USCG may be called upon to operate as a service in the Navy. At other times, Coast Guard Port Security Units are sent overseas to guard the security of ports and other assets. The Coast Guard also jointly staffs the Navy’s naval coastal warfare groups and squadrons, which oversee defense efforts in foreign littoral combat and inshore areas.
Everyone Works Together
My goal for this post isn’t a political statement about too many government agencies … I would encourage anyone to really dig deeper into learning more about how our government works together – it’s fascinating, and I realize that I don’t know or understand enough about it.
One thing that was really cool to read (yes, on wikipedia) was that both the US Navy and the US Coast Guard are described to be the largest and most powerful in the world. It makes me extremely grateful for being a US citizen, living in the US and for those who sacrifice to serve our country!
Appreciation for Harbormasters
OK, back to Harbormasters, October 8th is ‘National Harbormaster Appreciation Day’. I found a lot of interesting content from this website that I’ve posted below but enhanced with links:
In 1628, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was founded and the Boston Harbor, which was the first US harbor, quickly became a central trade hub internationally.
5 Facts about Harbors around the World
Harbors aren’t always sovereign:
China owns terminals in five US ports (in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Seattle, Miami and Houston from Testimony on China’s Global Ports)
Busiest seaport in the world:
The Port of Shanghai is the busiest seaport, and in 2016, it managed to break the world record and handle 37 million TEUs or containers
Smallest harbor in the world:
Depoe Bay, Oregon, covers a small six acres and is the world’s smallest, active harbor.
The most dangerous harbor in the world:
From Fort Stevens State Park you can watch ships attempt to navigate the Columbia River Bar, the most dangerous entry point for shipping, in the world.
Where billionaires park their yachts:
The Marina Grande, in Capri, is arguably the most expensive marina to dock at in the world, with prices starting at 2750 Euro (currently ~$2696) a day! We won’t be traveling there anytime soon!
4 Ideas to Celebrate
- Get to know local ports and harbors – If you live in a city or town that has a port or harbor, visit it. You’ll have an opportunity to see and learn what comes in and out of your town.
- Go on a voyage – If you want to get a feel for what goes on in your local port or harbor book a voyage on the water, you can even make a day of it and take your friends with you too. It’s a great opportunity to see exactly how your harbor is managed.
- Have a nautical-themed party – If you find yourself landlocked, and unable to enjoy your local port or harbor, pretend. Throw a nautical-themed party, dress up, and feel your inner sailor come to life.
- Watch a maritime movie – Of course, Pirates of the Caribbean is always a fun option!
What do you think?
So, Thank You Harbormasters – we appreciate what you do for our harbors, ports and communities! Kyle & I are very grateful for your service – especially after our 1st sailing season on Lake Michigan. We look forward to many more! ⛵
Please let me know if you have any feedback or comments on this topic. I’d love to hear from you!
– Kara from Zeke Life
Live like Zeke
You’re such a good boy!
