Boats have been removed from the seasonal anchorage area east of Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara to make way for new moorings. The Santa Barbara Harbor Commission has been discussing this change, and letters have been sent to the affected boaters.

New Moorings and Fees

The new moorings are expected to be completed by the end of July. Once finished, fees will be $30 per night, $200 per week, and $500 per month. Insurance will be required for all boats in the area, along with inspections. A permit application is available at the Harbormaster’s office.

The Santa Barbara Waterfront Department and non-profit groups, including Heal the Ocean, believe the improved mooring area and insurance requirement will create a safer zone and reduce the number of vessels breaking away. In the past, some boats have crashed into the shoreline, causing dangerous situations, environmental damage, and maritime debris concerns.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.