Shantyboat Forum

As I start my dram and initial planning, I keep running into the term "protected waters" as appropriate for most shantyboat designs.

Lakes and inland waterways are usually mentioned. One place I image spending some extended time in would be Pleasant Bay and Little Pleasant Bay and the associated waters in Chatham and Orleans on Cape Cod. Those waters are only separated from the Atlantic by a spit of beach.

See: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Orleans,+MA&hl=en&ll=41.737248,-69.960594&spn=0.086336,0.198269&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=46.630055,101.513672&vpsrc=6&hnear=Orleans,+Barnstable,+Massachusetts&t=h&z=13

If memory serves (after several decades,) the "seas" might run to 6-9" in a really strong blow - with ready access to protected anchorages.

Anyone with an idea as to whether these conditions would fit under the the concept of "protected waters?"

I suppose the term should be "waters where you feel you are protected". I know the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake some consider protected water but I feel much safer with a less sea worthy boat on the western shore. I wouldn't want a Shanty on the open east side of the Bay but wouldn't hesitate on the west. It's a matter of weather and seas. There are parts of the Mississippi that are not pleasant as well. Too me my consideration is swell and wind. Wind waves and surface chop are not as challenging to me or the boats I would want.