Dougie1123

I'm new to having a boat with a head and have some general questions regarding the pump-out process. I've searched previous threads but couldn't find answers so I'll ask them here.

When time comes to pump out waste, where do I go to get it pumped? Do all marinas have a pump-out service? Do you have to purchase gas or rent a slip to get pumped out or can I just roll up to a marina and ask/pay to have it done? What is the normal cost to have this done? Where can I get it pumped when it's trailered?

We haven't used the head yet since we've only been on short trips and are unfamiliar with the process but plan on longer trips with kids and adults with small bladders soon and want to be prepared!

I normally put in/out in St. Augustine so where can I go in St. Augustine or Jax Beach to get it pumped?

Thanks in advance for your responses!

Baker352

In my area (west coast crystal river) marinas don’t have that service. The county offers it for $5 and you have to call them and it’s a boat that comes to you. Just my experience

C Skip R

Maybe quicker to run offshore 3 nm.

guardrail

In Jax Pablo Creek charges $5, Sister's creek municipal is free but may not always be working, Beach marine has pump-out, etc. In St. Augustine has the city marina and Camachee Cove... Check ActiveCaptain Pump-out is listed under Services.

RickC137

A lot of boats don't have that overboard option. Pump out is the only way.

In the high tax New England States, they have pumpout boats on patrol, roaming the waterfront and anchorages. It's a free service. Just call them on VHF

Dougie1123

Since I've never done this before, I have questions regarding the procedures for getting a pump-out at a marina. Do I just dock at the marina and ask for a pump-out? Is it bad etiquette to get a pump-out without purchasing anything else at the marina such as gas, etc.? Do I do the pump-out or do the dock hands that do the pump-out or does it vary by marina? Is there a fee for this or do I just tip the dock hand if they assist?

I want to make sure that I'm not 'that guy' when I pull into a marina to get a pump-out and make sure I'm following proper boating etiquette/marina etiquette when doing this.

Thanks for your responses!

Cracker

Call Beach Marine by the Beach blvd Bridge in Jax they should either be able to do it or recommend someone close..

BeachBuster97

i work at a marina on the lake but where we are gas docks generally have a pump out station so during working hours the attendant will come pump out your boat after you filling out the form. just pull up to the gas dock and ask for a pump out, generally people tip for pump outs if you were wondering about etiquette. no need to buy anything from the store or gas if you dont need it. if your marina doesnt have it i have also seen boats that will come to you and pump it out for you..

Hjudge49

Assuming you launch at the Vilano causeway ramp, the closest place would be Camachee Cove. The pump out is right beside the marina office and fuel dock.

briankinley2004

https://www.waterwayguide.com/explor...10&mode=marina

Go to your area and the waterway guide will tell you which marinas have pump outs, prices, etc. The last time I pumped out it was $20 for two 75 gallon tanks. I tipped the attendant.

Reel Lucky LHP

My marina is no charge, but, for crap sakes tip the dock hand.

Steelers0355

If your pumpout access cover is like mine, not attached to the boat, buy a spare now. It's one of those Murphy's Law things - if you have a spare, you'll never lose the original.

marlinmike

We have a few town free pumpout stations, we also have a pump out boat. So basically do you research, ask locally (guys in the marina). Many cases you have to do it yourself.

TurboJoe

Our boat's pumpout location is a bit tricky to get to holding on the standard suction adapter because of a tight corner. So I purchased a pipe extension and my own quick change hose adapter to use on the pumps. If your pump out cap is loose with no connection, this may be a good option to make it easier also, as now you no longer need to hold it in place, or get exploding poo on you.

That's my other tip, do not let the suction break mid stream before the tank is empty. Also have a washdown hose ready, whether from the boat or the dock side.

We had a portajohn company empty our tank on the dry when we bought our boat and wanted it empty before winter. It was a pretty hefty charge, but you may be able to call services like that and see if you can drive to them with the boat on the trailer.