Reviews from Chuck Swaim (4)

Anchorage Review for Twelve Mile Island - south

Reviewed by: Chuck Swaim, Lindy Lou, on Aug 18, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.5'

We did anchor training at this location, which also coincided with a need to wait out a storm cell. This stretch of water does have some homes on it but the traffic was non-existent on a Monday. We did not stay overnight but would use this anchorage if needed.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for East Port Marina

Reviewed by: Chuck Swaim , Lindy Lou, on Aug 18, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 4

We stayed in East Port for a year and enjoyed the staff who were always willing to help. Two good dining options are within walking distance and full shopping and dining experiences are only 3 miles away. There is modest Uber service available. The approach to the marina accommodates our draft but you will get low/very low depth indications due to the heavy silting in Peoria Lake. Unless the pool is significantly less than the 12' average you should not have any problems getting in an out of this marina. Be advised you should stay in the center of the approach channel since the regular ongoing traffic helps to keep this clear and you want to stay clear of possible buoy chains that can shift with lower water.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Mel's Illinois RiverDock Restaurant

Reviewed by: Chuck Swaim , Lindy Lou, on Aug 18, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 3

Very friendly folks and enjoyed a meal with them (no alcohol served though). Flat-fee dockage at $25 does not include any water or electrical hook-ups. There is a Dollar General and a new coffee shop nearby. It was an easy stopover, especially when there is nothing else to choose from within 20 miles.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer

Marina Review for Logsdon Tug Service

Reviewed by: Chuck Swaim , Lindy Lou, on Aug 18, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 2

Serviceable dockage on a remote section of the Illinois River and it fit the bill versus anchoring. We would not have known about this location or how to pay in the honor box had it not been for our training captain. We came in on a Sunday when they do not staff the office. Almost all of the restaurants we saw were Mexican (which we enjoy). Primitive single bathroom/shower and bringing your own TP is recommended. Free ice was available.

View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer