because of this episode.... Someone not too long ago put a tablet with Bluechart and AC attached. He scanned some harbors, did some browsing. He was relating seeing that app/AC for the first time, and said, "This is the end of me" I had to laugh! He's an upbeat guy and I didn't take it seriously.

I gave him my dangerously optimistic pep talk, "the guide will never die,...". But that was the reason, when I went home, I turned on AC on my garmin app for the first time. He has reason to be pessimistic. Part of the attaction to his guide(all cruising guides) are the nuts and bolts info. Anchorage, provisions, rocks, how to get in etc.

You don't need to be on wifi to get 10 reviews of an anchorage on AC. Will people look to 10 reviews of an anchorage as a guide? I think many will. Throw in marinas, provisions, nearest stores, local interest, where are many sailors today gonna look for that? ON-line. It's not a matter of liking or disliking AC, or any other free info(like USHarbors), it's just what's out there for free.

We had some laughs, he's written for all the sailing pubs. in the past and some homebuilding stuff too( we have a lot in common). Print is on the ropes! Many pubs are dead, they just don't know it yet(despite having gone to half the pages and cheap ink/paper).

Those that are surviving are innovative and changing with the times. But all are trying to pick up the slack with their internet presence. Curtis admitted he's not on the cutting edge there. But I don't know what sort of internet presence he could present, that would also generate income? Any ideas? Maybe he needs his own guide on an app? That and the typical reduced sized print publication?

I love your photo, Dave. That's what coastal sailing is all about, the fun, the planning. I hope the big thick Maine Cruising Guide survives, but it will have earn it's keep or will die. Planning will still go on, even if it's done online.