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    • Oct 27, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the short and narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.

      Captain Kipnis’s report agrees with a report from June of this year, /?p=117878, but does not agree with a report from earlier this month, /?p=125114. However you choose to rely on these reports, SSECN advises that you take Captain Kipnis’s advice and navigate this Problem Stretch at mid to high tide.

      With a 2′ tide, we saw between 4.3′ and 4.5′ midchannel between G89 and G91. Wait for mid-tide on this one! We have a 3′ draft and found only 1.5′ under our keel. At low tide, we would have been aground.

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Oct 10, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the short and narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.

      Came through here this morning (10-9-13) from the North at 8:25 AM (2 hours past low tide). Read 8.6 feet abreast of marker Green “89 and 9.2 feet abreast of marker Green “91.” I steered center channel for the entire passage.
      Bob Poovey m/v Threadbare

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Sep 11, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Wassau Sound Inlet, Georgia (near Statute Mile 585.5)

      Click Chartlet Above to Open A Chart View Page Centered on Wassau Sound

      Over the first part of September, 2013, there has been an interesting discussion on the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association Forum (http://www.greatloop.org/) as to the usability of Wassau Sound Inlet, which pierces the northeastern Georgia coastline a few miles south of the Savannah River inlet. From the AICW, the most practical approach to this seaward cut, is to leave the Waterway at marker #40, southeast of the Waterway – Herb River intersection (just a short hop south of Thunderbolt, GA), and then follow the wide but scantily marked Wilmington River channel to Wassau Sound, and eventually to this sound’s inlet.
      Personally, I wouldn’t think about attempting this passage without a well functioning chart plotter aboard, outfitted with the latest charts, and, even then, only with light winds and good weather in the offing!

      My real question is, does anyone use or are the inlets between Thunderbolt and Brunswick usable for a 5 ft draft? Assuming a calm day.
      I see many are marked by buoys, but does that mean that you can follow the charts and not have a problem ? I would like to run out of Delegal Creek and run to St Simons.
      I realize St Simons entrance is not a problem as it is a shipping channel.
      Bob and Libby

      I used Wassaw Sound inlet last about two years ago. Beyond G9 and R10, I had trouble finding the movable marks over the bar to R2. Latest chart shows the channel bending quite sharply to the south and that is how I recall we found the movable marks. Take it slow in good visibility at half tide or higher the first time.
      There is plenty of water once you know where the channel really is. My first time through in a sail boat 10 years ago didn’t work out so well, spent about four hours at the bottom of the tide cycle with our keel on the bottom.
      Chuck Gorgen
      ODYSSEE

      Olivia, To get the latest information you might contact Sea Tow or TowboatUS for that area. The buoys are constantly being moved because of shoaling and if there are steep seas running, they are hard to find because they are spaced far apart and get lost in the troughs of the swells. The inlet should only be used in calm conditions.
      Chuck

      Last year, after Hurricane Sandy had passed the area, I was helping a friend move his 48ft Island Packet (5ft draft) south to Miami and we used, with no issues, Wassau inlet. We had spent the night in Thunderbolt. The marks are far apart but a chart plotter helped keep us oriented. Wind was 15/20 WSW with a good 4-5ft chop once we were away from the inlet. Tide had just ebbed at Thunderbolt and current was light and with us as we came down the river, and while a bit confused, there were no standing or breaking waves at the inlet. The inlet was no issue for our offshore capable boat. If you look at the mast heights of the really big sailing yachts in maintenance at Thunderbolt then Wilmington River/Wassau inlet is most likely what they use as they can’t get under the 65ft bridge just to the north and have drafts not appropriate for the ICW travel to the south.
      Roger Arrowood

      My name is Kevin Quinn. I keep my boats on the Wilmington River and I am out on the Wassaw Sound every week. I have a USCG Masters License with a Sail Endorsement. I would be glad to help anyone wanting to make this passage down the Wilmington, through the Wassaw sound and out the inlet. I will help you on the phone, Email or on board. 912-355-0737
      krquinn@bellsouth.net
      Kevin Quinn

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Wassau Sound

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    • Aug 7, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Advice on Entering Delegal Creek, AICW Statute Mile 601

      Delegal Creek - Click for Chartview

      According to a spokesperson at the Delegal Creek Marina, their entrance channel MLW depths are 3 ft, with a tidal range of 8-9 ft, so mid to high tide would be the best time to enter Delegal Creek. Once in the creek, soundings improve, but clearly this marina’s entrance depths are an issue if your vessel draws more than 3 ft.
      Delegal Creek Marina’s entrance passage lies northeast of AICW marker #86. just north of Hell Gate. The advice given below is courtesy of the AGCLA Forum.

      Have you, like me, bypassed Delegal Creek on Skidaway Island, AICW 601, because you couldn’t figure out how to enter the creek and get to the marina. Don’t fret, call the dock master or look on their website. The marina is first class, the staff very helpful, a courtesy golf cart will take you to get provisions and to restaurants as well as a tour of the island. It is worth the extra effort to call ahead and even ask for a “follow me” boat to come out and lead you into the creek. We did and they were wonderful. You won’t regret this stop.
      Stay safe,
      Tom

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Delegal Creek

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    • Jul 18, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Good Words for Delegal Creek Marina, AICW Statute Mile 601

      Delegal Creek - Click for Chartview

      According to a spokesperson at the marina, the MLW in the entrance to Delegal Creek is 3 ft with a tidal range of 8-9 ft, so mid to high tide would be the best time to enter Delegal Creek. Once in the creek, there is plenty of depth, however the entrance channel is an issue if you draw more than 3 ft. The entrance channel begins northeast of waterway flashing daybeacon #86. just north of Hell Gate.

      Call ahead to Delegal Creek for a really nice stay. They do have room for a boat like yours, but you must ride the tide. The island is really neat. They have a free golf cart that you can take to the village. Really nice.
      John Winter

      If you can enter and leave at half tide or more you would enjoy Delegal Creek Marina just North of Hell’s Gate. This is about two hours South of Thunderbolt as there are no-wake zones in the area AND they are looking for speeders ($300).
      Bruce Elder
      Inevitable Too

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Delegal Creek

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    • Jul 18, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Excellent Cruising Advice from Brunswick, GA to Thunderbolt, GA.

      Thanks to our good friend, Captain Jim Healy, for this summary of cruising tips and recommendations covering the long trek north or south on the AICW between Brunswick and Thunderbolt, Georgia. Captain Jim’s excellent article below is reprinted from the AGCLA Forum (http://www.greatloop.org).

      Brunswick (Morningstar’s Golden Isles Marina) to Thunderbolt (Thunderbolt Marina) is 93.9 StM miles, which we do, nominally, in 10-11 hrs, depending on tides. Not too bad in July, with longer hours of daylight. Requires planning in November, with shorter hours of daylight. It would be around 100 StM miles from Brunswick Landing Marina in downtown Brunswick to Thunderbolt.
      This stretch has some of the shallowest water on the entire US East Coast at low tide. The tidal range in the region is 6 – 7 feet. At 4-1/2 ft, you won’t have a problem, but it would be most desirable for you to make the transit with high tide at mid-day. That way, you depart on a rising tide, travel with good water, and arrive before low tide. Said another way, avoid the Little Mud River +/- 2 hours of “neap,” low tide, and +/- 3 hours of “spring” low tide; in English, that’d be +/- 3 hrs around new moon/full moon.
      There are many, many exquisite anchorage options along that route, including the Duplin River, Crescent River and Walburg Island. There are just a few marina choices. Marina reviews are all fair-to-good, but navigation for a larger boat, particularly near low tide, *may* be tricky, so call ahead to whichever on you select if marinas are your thing. Just north of Brunswick is Hidden Harbor on Troup Creek. Across the Ogeechee R. as you come through Hell Gate, northbound, is Delegal Creek with Delegal Marina (pronounced: deli-gal). There is a sandbar at the entrance of Delegal Creek, and Delegal Marina will send a boat out to meet you and guide you in. At approx MM613 is Kilkenny Creek with Kilkenny Creek Marina. Kilkenny has a reputation for being a particularly “quaint” stop in rural outback Georgia. And just 45 min-to-an-hour south of Thunderbolt is Isle of Hope Marina. There are several Marinas in Thunderbolt; we use
      Thunderbolt Marina for easy access, good facilities and daily Crispy Creme donuts delivered to the boat in the morning by 07h00. Both Isle of Hope and Thunderbolt Marina are good places to stop longer for a visit to the City of Savannah. THERE IS A LOT TO SEE AND DO IN SAVANNAH. DO NOT SKIP SAVANNAH! My admiral prefers the Thunderbolt locale to the Savannah City docks, which she feels are too public, although I prefer the City Dock for excellent convenience to downtown. (As I said, we stay at Thunderbolt Marina. Admirals outrank Captains except when the ship is under way on the water.)
      Hope this is useful.
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Morningstar Golden Isles Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Duplin River Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Crescent River Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Walburg Creek Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Brunswick Landing Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Hidden Harbor Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Kilkenny Creek Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Isle of Hope Marina

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Thunderbolt Marine

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Savannah City Docks

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    • Jun 24, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      New Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.
      Cruising News:
      I transited Hell gate on 6/22/13 enroute from Thunderbolt Marine to my home at Ft McAllister on the Ogeechee River. I have made this passage many times in the past as I’m a “local” and it is part of my cruising area. I have a Bristol 29.9 CB which only draws 3.5 feet, so I was not concerned at transiting at low tide. However, this time I was mistaken. I made the passage at 1500 hours which by my estimate was low slack water. Tide tables indicated a very low -0.9 tide. I always follow the same “established route” on my GPS, so I know that I am always on a route that has been successful in past. As I traveled south between G89 and temp R90 my depth sounder went from 5 feet to 3 feet and I slowed from 6 knots to 3 knots. I estimate that I was plowing a furrow for 200 feet or so, before I started to get more water under my keel. Fortunately, I didn’t go hard aground as the bottom was obviously silt and loose sand. Everywhere else on that trip through Hell Gate the minimum depth that I saw was about 5 feet. Hope this post helps some cruisers.
      Richard Brown

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • May 16, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Delegal Creek Marina (Statute Mile 600)

      The poorly marked entrance to Delegal Creek Marina leaves the combined paths of the AICW and Vernon River, immediately north of the infamous Hell Gate section of the Waterway. Captains Chuck and Claria give GOOD advice below for successfully navigating the tricky entrance passage.
      The article below is copied from the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association Forum!(http://www.greatloop.org/)

      I’ll second the vote for Delegal Creek Marina, at MM 600 on Skidaway Island. Yes, it can be a little tricky getting in there the first time, their channel markers don’t line up with what’s on your chart plotter. Go to http://www.landings.org/delegal-creek-marina-3284 and then click on Delegal Creek Map under Marinas tab for directions on getting in. If you’re coming in with less than + 3′ of water on the tide table, call the marina office for instructions, and if your still a little concerned as to where the deepest water is they will come out and guide you in.
      Then if you want a special treat for dinner, call Renee at 912-598-7929 and order Chicken Pot Pies delivered to your boat. Call her a few hours before you get there and she will deliver them hot, if you wait to call her until you get in late in the afternoon, they will be frozen. Of course, a delightful dinner at one of the club houses is always a special treat as well. An inexpensive stop you will enjoy, $.94 per foot with Boat US discount. We now stop every time we go by. It’s a nice 61 mile run from our home in Beaufort, SC.
      Chuck and Claria Gorgen
      ODYSSEE

      We echo Chuck’s comments. The only thing to add is that the current can be tough for docking, especially a single screw. With that said, it is a definite stop and try to time for slack tide, especially when leaving. Dock master is excellent for giving advice on how to dock.
      John Winter

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Delegal Creek Marina

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    • Apr 26, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Vernon River Anchorages (Statute Mile 597)

      On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 597 ‘“ Who has abandoned the AICW south of marker #79, and cruised upstream, then anchored, on Vernon River near charted Beaulieu? Please describe your anchoring experience here.

      Responses follow:

      Vernon River? Been there, done that, loved it. Good holding ground. I stayed put through the squall seen in this SBO post:
      http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=148151&#post984707
      I had two anchors out. The less experienced crew of a boat nearby just threw out one without really setting it and they only moved a little bit.
      Next time south, I plan to explore farther up this river.
      Roger Long
      S/V Strider

      On April 18, 2013, I anchored in the area referred to as Breakfast Creek. Plenty of room and good holding bottom. It was peaceful and quiet. Will definitely stop again.
      Randy Hondros

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Vernon River Anchorages

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Vernon River Anchorages

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    • Apr 25, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Depth Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.

      As of 4/24/2013 at 08h55:
      Egg Island tide data: H – 07h32
      At 08h55: +6.6 against + 7.6 on my Garmin CP almanac…
      Readings: NB, One-half way between G91 and R89: 13.4′
      At R90: 15.1′
      At G89: 14.1′
      100 yards north of G89: 12.8′
      So, control depth at normal low would be 12.8′-6.6′ or 6.2′. Less for celestial low tides.
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary
      Currently at Beaufort, SC
      Monk 36 Hull #132
      MMSI #367042570
      AGLCA #3767
      MTOA #3436

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Apr 23, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Isle of Hope Marina (Statute Mile 590)

      Located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, Skidaway River at Mile 590, Marker 46-A, Latitude: N 31o 58.78' , Longitude: W 081o 03.35' 2-354-8187On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 590 ‘“ I know many of you have spent a night or two at Isle of Hope Marina. Please describe the marina and your experiences here. Did one of the local restaurants provide complimentary transportation to and/or from the docks?

      Responses follow:

      Spent one night at Isle of Hope in early April. Two courtesy cars. Allowed to retain keys for one overnight to transport a sick pet to a veterinary clinic the next morning. Office stayed open late for our arrival. Gave good information on restaurants and allowed use of courtesy car in evening for transportation to restaurants. Said one of the restaurants provided return transportation but did not pick up. Approximately 1 mile walk to restaurants. Marina in excellent condition. Highly competent, friendly, and helpful staff.
      Howard Rockness
      Sequel

      Spent the night of 4/17/13 at Isle of Hope. It was our second time here. Has many positive attributes-Great dock hands, long face-dock, OK facilities, courtesy cars. You can use cars till after 5 pm. Have mixed feelings due to my problems using their fuel pump, too much air in fuel for my slow speed pumping (can’t slow the fast speed pump). Web advertisement says bring a buddy boat and get a discount. The buddy boat signed up first and after discussion were given the listed discount. When I signed up, no way was I going to get a discount. May stop again but other marinas to try first.
      s/v/Skye

      Is always a good experience.
      Raymond W. Smith
      “Fire Dog”

      We stayed at Isle of Hope marina for 3 weeks in November/December 2012 while my husband was treated for an infection from a cut on his hand. He was in the hospital for 6 days. The marina staff were very supportive, friendly and helpful. I would have liked it much better if the bathrooms were cleaner. I only used them once and showered on the boat after that! Dinner at the Driftaway Cafe in nearby Sandfly was delicious. We went back twice for the Tybee tuna!
      Harriet Hardy
      sv Moondance

      We had a great experience there. Lovely area to walk around. They provided a courtesy car to get some shopping done. Staff was very nice.
      Patricia Sienstra

      We have moved our boat there from Chattanooga because of the location and staff! Marina is set in a beautiful neighborhood and you feel like you are walking out of your house to your boat! Quiet area and everyone is so friendly.
      Drift away is about a mile away but there are 5 other restaurants and a nice Piggly Wiggly grocery.
      Just 1/2 of a mile away we always get greeted by Dolphins.
      Tim Gaffney

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Isle of Hope Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Isle of Hope Marina

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    • Apr 23, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Thunderbolt, GA Marinas and Dining (Statute Mile 583)

      As part of a 4/22/13 NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 583 ‘“ If anyone has docked this spring at any of the marinas in Thunderbolt, GA, particularly Thunderbolt Marine and/or Bahia Bleu, please tell us about your experiences here. Did you dine ashore at Tubby’s Tank House? How did you find the bill of fare?

      Responses follow:

      Stayed at Thunderbolt Marina in early January. Stopped there with a radar problem. The yacht yard arranged for an electronics technician to be available to address our problem upon arrival. The technician was able to diagnose the problem but did not have parts to fix the problem that evening. The marina was well maintained and clean, had extremely helpful staff, and provided free donuts and a newspaper in the morning in time for our early departure. Ate a late lunch at Tubbies – a huge very good fish sandwich that was very good but bigger than both our appetites. Service was very slow.
      Howard Rockness
      Sequel
      Sabre 47

      We spent a night at Thunderbolt Marine on our way south earlier this year and plan to spend a couple of days there on our way north this Spring. The floating docks are easy to tie to and facilities are first-rate. You can hop a bus a couple of blocks away that will take you to Savannah. We had a very enjoyable lunch at Tubby’s, which is a very fun place with great outdoor seating.
      Captain Mary
      Intermezzo

      Have stayed in Thunderbolt several times this Spring. Once at Morningstar Bahia Bleu and twice at Hinckley Yacht Services. Stayed on the facing docks at both marinas. Plenty of water and easy approach. Bahia Bleu is a “real” marina and has some nice facilites, although the bathrooms/laundry are all on the 2nd deck of the building. Hinckley is a boatyard (wonderful boatyard by the way) so facilities are a little more spartan, i.e., no laundry. We’ve gone to Tubby’s Tank House restaurant everytime. Good food and a lively spot. Very short walk from Bahia Bleu and about half mile from Hinckley
      Tom Callan
      o/b Great Escape
      53 DeFever POC

      I spent 2 weeks at this marina [Thunderbolt Marine] and found it very pleasant and the personnel more than helpful. We dined at Tubby’s 7 times in a 2 week period. They have a great $5.00 lunch, but you need to get there before the 12 noon crowd. On Thursday night, there is an oyster roast for about 1hour outside the bar area and is supposed to be free, but donations are accepted. Happy hour beer is priced right all day long in the bar.
      Good spot.
      Philip W. Mullins (Phil)

      If you go south on the Wilmington River from where the AICW joins the Skidaway River, about a half mile down is Turner Creek. In the creek right on starboard is Sail Harbor Marina Boatyard. It is certainly not fancy, but a great value. And they did very nice work on our boat.
      Dunniganj

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Thunderbolt Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Thunderbolt Marina

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    • Apr 23, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Delegal Creek Marina (Statute Mile 600.5)

      On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 600.5 ‘“ Anyone visit Delegal Creek Marina on (what else) Delegal Creek. Did you have difficulty with the entrance channel? What depths did you discover on Delegal Creek, particularly at MLW?

      Responses follow:

      Went in at mid-tide and the low spot is only for a few feet and had not difficulty. We saw a huge boat come in. The dock master is maybe the best in the USA. The currents are ripping thru here and with the slips being parallel with the river, when you turn into to alley way, you can be swept into boats. Free cart to take to village is a must. This is a definite return stop for us, but we will work for slack tides in the future, even if it is low tide. Price is very good.
      John Winter

      Was there two times early 2013. A little tricky getting in the first time. Red entrance aid missing. Best to enter at mid tide. Nice docks etc. Part of a private community on Skidaway Island. Not your everyday stop over unless you are stopping to visit some one you know there.
      Raymond W. Smith
      “Fire Dog”

      Stayed there in Nov., 2012. The creek is shallowest at the entrance. The staff was very helpful on the radio with specific instructions. ie. green side, red side, etc. The marina was fairly quiet in Nov. The amenities were, clean, neat and accessible. The kicker, though, was the free use of the marina’s golf cart. You can run into town for anything you might need. What a deal!
      Jeff Moore

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Delegal Creek Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Delegal Creek Marina

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    • Apr 23, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Hinkley Yacht Services (Statute Mile 583)

      Hinkley Yacht Services lies along the AICW’s western banks opposite Savannah Bend Marina, in Thunderbolt, GA. As Captain Winter notes below, this facility is more of a repair yard than a marina, but transients are accepted here for overnight dockage.

      If you want to take a cab to Savannah, we recommend staying in Thunderbolt (we use Hinckley for price even though it is not as nice as other marinas there – it is a boat yard), but the cab ride to town is shorter, therefore cheaper. Also, docking at HInckley is a breezeThe bus from Isle of Hope to downtown is ok, but you have to make a transfer and it therefore takes some time.
      John Winter

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Hinkley Yacht Services

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Hinkley Yacht Services

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    • Apr 4, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Words of Praise For Thunderbolt Marine (Statutue Mile 583)

      Not only does Thunderbolt Marine offer some pretty dockage directly on the AICW, but their repair facilities are EXTENSIVE. Just from the note below, looks like Captains Pam and Warrick found their work exemplary!

      Were at Thunderbolt last year. Excellent service. Great bathrooms. Close to marine electronics store. Security guard on car park. Easy walk to bus but check that the office has given you the latest timetable. Buses stop around 6.30.
      Pam and Warrick
      Morning Star

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Thunderbolt Marine

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Thunderbolt Marine

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    • Feb 24, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Good Words for Morningstar Marina at Bahia Bleu, Thunderbolt, GA, AICW Statute Mile 583

      Morningstar Marina at Bahia Bleu - Click for Chartview

      Morningstar Marina at Bahia Bleu guards the western banks of the ICW, south of the Thunderbolt bridge.

      Stayed here 3 weeks in October, 2012. Good Diesel and gas available, clean, but remote, showers. I was able to ride my bike to stores and restaurants in the area. WIFI was good, AT&T cell phone was good. Downtown Savannah is about 5-7 miles, one way.
      S/V Nomad

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Bahia Bleu Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Morningstar Marina at Bahia Bleu

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    • Jan 17, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.

      Mon Jan 14 18:27:08 EST 2013
      Subject: Sun Dancer at Hell Gate mile 601
      Contrary to all advice, but at the mercy of mother nature, we passed through hell gate at dead low, new moon tide today, Jan 14 at 1615. Tide table said it should have been -1.2 feet at that time.
      Actually, because of the exceptionally high tide, the tide was not completely low for another 45 minutes, so it may have been 6″ higher than -1.2′.
      I kept on the red side and had mostly 5+ feet except by the temporary red buoy. Stay away from that buoy (but not too far). This buoy is 1/2 way between green 89 and red 92. I was too busy finding water to note its number.
      Passing far over from green 89 was the lowest (4 feet). The beacon was 20 feet into the mud bank and the temporary green in line with it was laying sideways in inches of water.
      My Pearson 35 draws 3′-9″ and I never touched bottom, but still issued an extra portion of grog once through.
      Ray Schmidt

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

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    • Dec 23, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 31.9483,-81.06579999

      Skidaway Narrows Bridge OPERATIONAL!, AICW Statute Mile 592.5


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      Our “onsite reporter”, Roger Long, gives us the good news that the bridge has been repaired. Capt. Long had been anchored in the immediate area waiting for an opening since early Saturday. Thank you, Roger! However, he warns that more problems with the old bridge may arise before the new bridge is completed. Skidaway Narrows Bridge crosses the ICW at Statute Mile 592.5. A new high-rise bridge is under construction immediately north of the old bridge.

      Opened Sunday evening 12/23/12. In view of the big head shaking gathering by a bunch of people who looked like they had been pulled from church and family activities, I expect there will be more uncertainty about this bridge in its short time remaining.
      Roger Long

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Bridge Directory Listing For Skidaway Narrows Bridge

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    • Nov 15, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for Georgia Waterway and Report from Hell Gate, AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 602

      The AICW follows the narrow, man-made canal known as Hell Gate between the Vernon and Ogeechee Rivers. These waters have been an “AICW Problem Stretch” for years.

      Captains Glen and Jill Moore provide an excellent picture of and approach to this long-time trouble spot where depths can change quickly due to the narrow channel. And we heartily agree that these miles of undeveloped and unspoiled Waterway in Georgia are well worth the necessary planning and navigational care.

      We traveled through Hell Gate on 11/9/12. The shallowest spot observed on our path was 8′ MLW south of floating R90. Using the large Georgia tides to your advantage, Hell Gate depths provide a good margin of error on your course through this narrow stretch of the ICW.
      Some cruisers avoid the Georgia ICW due to stories of shallow water. They miss one of the best cruising areas of the southeast coast. Those on a delivery schedule, just trying to get south or north as quickly as possible, can save much time by going outside. It is about 115 sm from Hilton Head, SC to the St. Marys River entrance at the Florida line, while traveling between the same destinations following the ICW is a curving course of 150 sm. But, for cruisers searching for memorable experiences, it is 150 miles of natural beauty, 100’s of anchorages, and many interesting places to visit.
      The term ‘Problem Stretches’ may be part of the problem, adding to a level of fear causing cruisers to avoid Georgia. Yes, there are areas that require attention and planning, all of which are documented on the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net website. So, there should be no surprises. The site’s new feature of recently sounded and recorded depths by ARGUS research vessels, detailed directly on NOAA charts, provides accurate and easy-to-understand information on depths. Spending a little time researching the waterway on SSECN, annotating information directly on your charts, will provide a valuable guide to safely cruising Georgia’s section of the AICW. Navigation of these waters is a bit more challenging, but the challenge of navigation should be one of the experiences enjoyed in cruising ‘” a n endeavor rewarded by the outstanding cruising experiences these waters can provide.
      The narrow, and sometimes shallow, Georgia passages should be viewed as `Areas of Concern,’ requiring increased levels of attention and planning. Often in life, the greatest of rewards require higher effort to achieve.
      PBS created a documentary of the Georgia barrier islands which provides a visual and narrative description of the history and beauty of one aspect of this area: http://www.gpb.org/secretseashore#
      Glen and Jill Moore
      DeFever 40 Last Dance

      Very good to hear positive comments about the Georgia ICW.
      Sonny

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Hell Gate

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    • Nov 6, 2012by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      An Enthusiastic Thumbs Up for Hinkley Yacht Services, Thunderbolt, Georgia (just outside Savannah, GA, St. M. 583)

      Having just returned from a personal research visit to Hinkley Yacht Services on 11/2/12, I agree with Captain Day’s description. This truly seems like a quality operation!
      The Savannah/Thunderbort version of the venerable Hinkley Yacht Services overlooks the Waterways’ western banks, immediately north of the Thunderbolt high-rise bridge.

      In September 2011 we hauled our 34 year old, 44FT. Thompson Trawler, LILY MARIA at the Chesapeake Marine Railway, Deltaville, VA { Contact:J. Farinholt. {804}776 8833 } for serious bottom work.High pressure water utilizing a special nozzle removed old paint.Voids and dings filled, sanded and two coats of West Marine Premium Gold ablative anti fouling applied. This was our second visit to Chesapeake Marine Railway and have always been pleased with there work and consideration to customer needs. Good people!.
      In May 2012 we short hauled for an insurance survey and seemingly the overly enthusiastic pressure wash removed most of the still active ablative paint.Four months in Georgias fast flowing, nutrient rich rivers found LILY MARIAs bottom reminiscent of a tropical rain forest, with abundant slime, weed and small barnacles. A marine biologists delight , a skippers horror show!!.
      What to do?.Haul in Geogia or wait until we returned to Marathon for the winter?. Greatly reduced speed, slugish manouvering and no doubt increased fuel consumption favored Georgia.
      By telephone we contacted 7 reputable boat yards including 2 in Florida where we had hauled in prevous years for quotations. For a fair comparison we reduced each quote to a $ per foot cost. The quotation from Hinkley Yacht Services in Thunderbolt GA came right in the middle of our tabulation. After several discussions with Gebel Seese , Hinkley Service Manager, {Contact: {912} 629 2400 } it became apparent to us that Hinkley offerred the best possible value consistent with top quality materials and skilled labor.
      We found the Sea Hawk web site informative and following Gebel Seese advise we specified Sea Hawk, Tropikote, based on proven longevity and effectiveness of anti fouling properties. Further, via Sea Hawks appointed applicators a written guarrantee is issued which appealed to Jean and I.
      Haul out day saw LILY MARIA in the slings for a full 8 hours while she was scraped,pressure washed and lightly sanded. Of special note,the running gear and scoops were restored to bare metal by the addition of a small amount of silicone sand added to the pressure wash water.This coupled with the extensive work undertaken the prevous year at the Chesapeake Marine Railway has restored the bottom of LILY MARIA to a clean fair surface. As one interested bystander said “Your 35 year old boat now has the bottom of a 4 year old”. We especially appreciated the care and hard work in prepping the bottom on which the finished job would depend.
      Metal primed, 2 coats of Tropikote applied with 3 on the waterline and LILY MARIA was ready to be launched within 5 working days.
      Durring the haul out we lived aboard with minimal inconveience. Hinkley provides good clean shoreside facilities adjascent to the work area. The work areas are tidy, well organized and the work scheduled so the job progresses without interruption.
      The labor force,many of whom worked at the old Palmer Johnson yard, are experienced, skilled craftsmen and proud to carry on the the quality work that Hinkley is renowned for. This full service yard maintains many boats that are not Hinkley built and despite there insistance on customer service and quality there priceing is most competitive.Hinkley is not a do it your self yard.
      We are extremly satisfied with our Hinkley experience which was beyond our expectations. The job was completed on time, within budget and to a high standard. On the run south we have noted at least a 1.25 increse in speed at cruising RPM plus resultant fuel savings.
      Jean sums it up best of all by saying “the only problem I see with Hinkley is that we now have no choice but to return for all future haul outs!!
      Colin Day
      Jean Henderson

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Hinkley Yacht Services

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