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    • Jun 19, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      To Canal or Not Canal: AICW Dismal Swamp Canal Route VS North Carolina – Virginia Cut (a. k. a. “Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal”)

      The interesting discussion below was copied from the AGLCA Forum, and provides good insight into the relative merits and demerits of the two choices that AICW cruisers may pick from to cruise from Virginia to North Carolina waters, or the other way around.
      The AICW Alternate Dismal Swamp Canal Route southbound departs the primary AICW south of Norfolk at Statute Mile 7.2 and begins officially at Deep Creek Lock at Mile 10.6. The Dismal Swamp Canal Visitors Center, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, will come abeam at approximately Mile 28. Elizabeth City lies south of South Mills Lock at Statute Mile 50.7 and is also A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      I find the Dismal Swamp Route more enjoyable. Elizabeth City is one of the gems of hospitality with its free town dock, “wine” and “cheese” parties, and waterfront events. The upper Pasquotank River is simply beautiful (kind of like the Waccamaw), and the canal is gorgeous. If you have time, tie up for the night at the welcome center, or dinghy up to Lake Drummond. Whichever way you go, have fun…they’re both nice routes.
      Mike

      Depending on your preference, either route is worth the trip. The Dismal Swamp is beautiful and much more peaceful and remote. The stop at Elizabeth City is wonderful. Traveling through the DS Canal means slow going and you have two locks to time for your transit. The Welcome Center is always everyone’s favorite stops. It will take a bit longer than the traditional ICW route if you are in a hurry, which I hope you’re not. There have been occasional issues with debris in the Dismal Swamp Canal so go slow and pay attention, and of course your draft will matter. On the other
      hand, we often like to stop in Great Bridge and take advantage of the free tie up and the short walk to restaurants and shopping if taking the ICW route. Have a great trip.
      Chuck

      We’ve done both and if your draft will let you, take the dismal swamp route at least once. It’s awesome. Especially the part of the river leading up to it from Elizabeth City. Take care to time your arrival at the south lock as
      they won’t let you in to wait. Stop at the visitors center. Take your time. Spend the night. Check with the lockmaster at the north lock to determine what time he’ll open the bridge if you want to tie up on the long dock.
      Take a look at the distance if you plan to do it in one day. That will mean skipping the visitors center and traveling around 6 to 7 mph (5 -6 knots).
      But, if you’re a full displacement boat, at 6 – 7 mph you’ll start to lift stuff off the bottom (old logs) that could hit your props or rudder (depending on how they are protected) and definitely throw up obstacles for the boats following. You’ll also suck a lot of water away from the banks at this speed which will exacerbate erosion.
      If you go the Coinjock route, make sure you get your order in for the Prime Rib early. The 32 oz is ridiculously large.
      Bob & Kemba DeGroot

      Both the Virginia Cut (through Coinjock) and the Dismal Swamp Canal have pros and cons. Neither is great cruising. Neither is bad cruising. Sanctuary and crew have done both routes several times, and it is now our preference to use the Dismal Swamp Canal whenever possible.
      The Virginia Cut generally carries the bulk of through traffic. This route has several bridges. All are restricted. The restrictions will affect slower boats more than faster boats, and the faster boats become impatient. Large, go-fast boats prefer this route, so expect to be waked; it’s just a fact-of-life on this route. Time the restrictions carefully. While waiting on bridges, station keeping in current and wind, the occasional impatient boater and poor boating manners, can make this route unpleasant and challenging. There is a single lock in this route, at Great Bridge (Chesapeake, VA). The lock operates with a 4-lane highway bascule bridge there. That bridge is restricted, which effectively restricts the lock. The lock has a free wall where boats can tie up and overnight. There is a
      Farm Fresh super market two city blocks away, within walking distance. Beer and wine is available at grocery stores from Virginia south.
      Currituck sound is wide and shallow, and go-fast boats will not slow when passing. The southern part of the route – below Coinjock – is scenic.
      There are marinas on this route, with all normal marina services. There are a couple of reasonable anchorages south of Coinjock. Although the route carries better depths (the control depth is 8′ – 9′) you must pay attention to the marked channels, particularly in the open water stretches. Markers are often well away from the deepest water of the actual channel.
      The Dismal swamp canal is narrow and has stretches that carry depths of 6 to 6-1/2 ft. Yes, there are (few) submerged logs in the canal bed. There are two locks, one at Deep Creek and one at South Mills. The locks are 22
      miles apart, and operate (unless drought restrictions are in force) at 08h30, 11h00, 13h30 and 15h30. If you lock through either end (either direction) at the 08h30 locking, you have 5 hours, until 13h30, to get to the other end. That works out to 22 miles/5 hours equals 4.4 StM/hr. Adjusted for locking time, actual travel speed (to avoid prolonged station-keeping at the destination end) will be at around 5 StM/hr. The speed limit on the canal is 6 StM/hr. Most trawlers and sailboats are at reduced speed at 5 Stm/hr, so these locks are *not* a problem for passage
      in one day. Travel at 5 StM/hr speed will *not* generally lift submerged logs off the bottom, but I suggest you travel 1/2 mile behind any vessel you might be following. Especially, stay away from two-engine trawlers, where prop wash might lift stuff up. With distance, anything that does lift off the bottom will settle back before you get to it. Within the canal, there are several docks that are all free. There are no services in the canal. The North Carolina Welcome Center is always a fun place to stay. Rafting is the rule, and is expected there, and at other docks in the canal. If you stay at docks within the canal over night, it’s easy to make the 11h30 locking at either end, from either end. Both locks have bridges that open only concurrently with the lockings. If you arrive
      early, you have no practical options to tie up, and usually must station keep. The greatest bonus of this route is the free wharf/slips at Elizabeth City, NC. EC is the most welcoming city on the East Coast for boaters! There is a nice Maritime Museum there, many restaurants (not 5-star, but good) and Sammy’s Barber Shop. Sammy has a sort of cultural museum in his shop. If you’re interested in State Police history, or politically-incorrect curiosities and mementos from the 50s, a visit to his shop is a definitely worthwhile. Plus, he’s a good barber. And of course,
      the previously mentioned Rose Buddies’ Wine and Cheese gatherings!
      Because through traffic on the Dismal Swamp canal is constrained to daylight hours by the lock operation, you can legally anchor in the channel by the locks. That works fine above Deep Creek, southbound. Spend the night on the hook there, and lock through southbound at the 08h30 locking in the morning. The bottom above Deep Creek is sand and mud, and is not foul. Some people anchor south of South Mills in the feeder ditch there. If you do, I recommend using a trip line, although I have no specific knowledge of any foul.
      If severe weather – n’oreaster w/gale-to-storm force winds – is forecast, the Dismal Swamp Canal offers somewhat better protection and cover. That said, it’s narrow enough that if a tree(s) does come down, it will block the canal and you’ll have to wait a day or so for the CoE to clear it. Would be worth it to me.
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary

      Jim’s assessment is thorough, spot on and I agree completely. I just make two additions. Between the Deep Creek Lock and swing bridge on the west side near the lock there is a free dock some call Elizabeth’s Dock or Robert’s (the best lock master of all) Dock. This has deep water (7’+) even into the lily pads. This is very, very protected and a great spot to wait out a weather delayed fall clog of boats to dissipate before heading to Elizabeth City or if heading North to stage and await to move thru the dreaded Gilmerton Bridge. There is a small park with trash cans and par course. The lock house is on that side a short walk and Robert is great with Dismal lore. A short walk across the swing bridge you come to strip mall with a Food Lion supermarket, advance auto parts, pizza place, Mexican
      Restaurant just before crossing the bridge there is a CVS. In short you have many resources that have easy access within a 1/4 mile walk of this nice dock. We have rafted many boats there in storms and had great gatherings
      or have had the spot to ourselves. There are power stations but they are turned off. There is one hose bib on the dock so city water is available. Also the dock at the junction of the Dismal Canal and Virginia Cut route next to the boat yard on the dismal route is free and there is a great hurricane hole anchorage in the basin just to the south between the lock and the junction. Enjoy.
      Joseph C. Pica

      I recently did the Dismal again – my 8th time now. I saw one log at Marker 18 – reported it to the Welcome Center and within 6 hours it was towed outta there. All this talk of what could happen reminds me that it’s far more dangerous crossing the street – that could happen too. So here I am in Great Bridge lock buying supplies. At least three logs passed me by today – not to mention several huge and far more dangerous barges plus fearsome looking mega yachts and sportsfishers creating tsunami waves equivalent to that last year in Japan. 🙂
      So go figure – if it’s lower risk you’re after – the Swamp everytime!
      Cap’n Parky now back cruising Chesapeake alert for the mermaids said to be in Hampton, VA. Now that’s risky – they could give you a nasty bite if you don’t take them to WalMart.
      Fun and adventure – that’s the joy of cruising my fellow sailors.
      Cap’n Parky, MV Pisces

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Mariners Wharf [Elizabeth] City Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Elizabeth City, NC

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    • Jun 18, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      In Praise Of The Great Dismal Swamp, VA to NC AICW Alternate Route

      The Great Dismal Swamp Canal route southbound departs the AICW south of Norfolk at Statute Mile 7.2 and begins officially at Deep Creek Lock at Mile 10.6. The Visitors Center is at approximately Mile 28. Elizabeth City is south of South Mills Lock at Statute Mile 50.7 and is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      Cruising between Norfolk, VA, and the Alligator River, NC, Captains must face the decision whether to go the Great Dismal route or the Virginia Cut route. I’d pick the Great Dismal every time.
      First of all boaters traveling south will meet very possibly the worlds friendliest lockkeeper Robert ‘“ who is also an expert on the local history and fauna of the swamp. You can stay overnight in his Deep Creek Lock approach at the Elizabeth Dock ‘“ right next to a charming park and within walking distance of a grocery store.
      Then you have the North Carolina Visitors Center with a museum all about the Swamp and a huge selection of free maps and brochures with spotlessly clean restrooms and friendly staff.
      South Mills Lock, 23 miles south, will also get you in and out inside a half hour at the scheduled opening times ‘“ and in their approach you can dock for a while and buy the best southern fried chicken I’ve ever tasted. Always a bit of an adventure going through a lock’¦’¦..
      Lambs Marina also (at the southern end of the swamp) offers a large selection of services, the only fuel stop between the Alligator River and Portsmouth and the lowest slip rates on the entire ICW. (see their web site at www.lambsmarinanc.com ) Transients are welcome!
      And finally you have Elizabeth City with a great tradition of welcoming visiting boaters via the `Rose Buddies’, the substantial Albemarle Museum and free pickup service by a local grocery store.
      Contrary to scuttlebutt often heard, the Great Dismal Swamp Route is not `shallow in places’ . Mid channel is a carefully maintained minimum 7 ft and often much deeper. There are said to be cypress logs floating everywhere ‘“ I have yet to see one. The Corps of Engineers do an excellent job of dredging all year round. They also by the way trim overhanging tree branches ‘“ so you have no danger of your mast being damaged providing you stay in the channel.
      By contrast, the Virginia Cut Route is said to be faster and safer ‘“ that must have been written by the big sportsfishers barreling along at 15 knots in front of their 6ft wakes! Or the huge barges frequently seen who cannot stop even if you are dead in front of them. More or less once a week I hear of some boat aground south of Coinjock calling for towing assistance. None of these things happen frequently on the Great Dismal.
      The Swamp route itself is somewhat spooky in a pleasant way. Full of history starting in the days of George Washington when a ditch was manually cut by slaves in an attempt to get lumber to the northern cities of Chesapeake Bay. As you travel through you get a sense of prehistoric times with many kinds of animals to be seen in their natural surroundings ‘“ maybe if you’re lucky, one the substantial number of black bears on the prowl. I think of Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn in the African Queen.
      Two great mooring spots to note. First at the top end, just north east of the Deep Creek Lock, what locals call the `Hole in the Wall’ – 12 ft water inside, 6 ft at the entrance. And don’t miss mooring behind Goat Island just south of the South Mills Lock. Be sure to check out the wood dock and boardwalk which goes all over the island.
      By contrast the Virginia Cut is ‘“ well let’s face it fellow Captains – Boooooring’¦’¦..

      So I raise a toast to the Great Dismal Swamp Canal ‘“ May it never close.
      You should try it sometime. You’re always welcome.
      Captain Parky, MV ‘˜Pisces’

      I find the Dismal Swamp Route more enjoyable. Elizabeth City is one of the gems of hospitality with its free town dock, “wine” and “cheese” parties, and waterfront events. The upper Pasquotank River is simply beautiful (kind of like the Waccamaw), and the canal is gorgeous. If you have time, tie up for the night at the welcome center, or dinghy up to Lake Drummond. Whichever way you go, have fun…they’re both nice routes.
      Mike

      Depending on your preference, either route is worth the trip. The Dismal Swamp is beautiful and much more peaceful and remote. The stop at Elizabeth City is wonderful. Traveling through the DS Canal means slow going and you have two locks to time for your transit. The Welcome Center is always everyone’s favorite stops. It will take a bit longer than the traditional ICW route if you are in a hurry, which I hope you’re not. There have been occasional issues with debris in the Dismal Swamp Canal so go slow and pay attention, and of course your draft will matter. On the other
      hand, we often like to stop in Great Bridge and take advantage of the free tie up and the short walk to restaurants and shopping if taking the ICW route. Have a great trip.
      Chuck

      We’ve done both and if your draft will let you, take the dismal swamp route at least once. It’s awesome. Especially the part of the river leading up to it from Elizabeth City. Take care to time your arrival at the south lock as
      they won’t let you in to wait. Stop at the visitors center. Take your time. Spend the night. Check with the lockmaster at the north lock to determine what time he’ll open the bridge if you want to tie up on the long dock.
      Take a look at the distance if you plan to do it in one day. That will mean skipping the visitors center and traveling around 6 to 7 mph (5 -6 knots).
      But, if you’re a full displacement boat, at 6 – 7 mph you’ll start to lift stuff off the bottom (old logs) that could hit your props or rudder (depending on how they are protected) and definitely throw up obstacles for the boats following. You’ll also suck a lot of water away from the banks at this speed which will exacerbate erosion.
      If you go the Coinjock route, make sure you get your order in for the Prime Rib early. The 32 oz is ridiculously large.
      Bob & Kemba DeGroot

      We appreciate all of the kind words and raves. Of course, we are in favor of everyone whose draft will allow, visiting the Great Dismal Swamp Canal. It truly is one of the `last Wild Places, and a step back in time. Come enjoy the view.
      Donna Stewart, Director, Great Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Mariners Wharf [Elizabeth] City Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Elizabeth City, NC

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    • May 4, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      More on the Entrance to Lamb’s Marina, AICW Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate Route – St. M. 47

      The recently dredged canal-like entrance channel leading to Lambs Marina cuts east from the AICW/Dismal Swamp Canal Route’s trek through Pasquotank River, south of Sawyers Creek and north of the charted railway bridge.

      Cruising News:
      To the sailboater who thought he had run aground on the approach to Lambs Marina, our apologies. Lambs Marina these days after dredging have a minimum depth of 8 ft both in the approach and at their slips. However the very next morning we went out in our dinghy and found two cypress logs floating in mid river. We towed both out of the way and are confident that those are what the sailboater bumped into.
      Check out our news on www.lambsmarinanc.com
      Happy sailing to one and all
      Cap’n Parky
      MV Pisces

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Lambs Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Lamb’s Marina

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    • Apr 30, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Wonderful Report from the Dismal Swamp Canal/AICW Alternate Route

      These folks definitely know how to take full advantage of a location. Their experience makes you want to go back and follow their tracks/wake in and around the Canal. The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      We are 2012 Loopers in progress who just exited the Dismal Swamp this morning after having a great time through there! We did hit two deadheads in the center of the canal, fortunately while traveling at idle speed, just in case. We spent one night at the free dock at the Visitors Center. The next morning we rode our bikes along the adjacent bike path, then moved 6 more miles up the Canal and spent a second night tied up at a free Corps of Engineers dock (only 20 feet long, so we took up more than the entire dock but would have let others raft to us). After we tied up there, we took our
      dinghy 3 miles up the Dismal Swamp Canal Feeder Ditch, right across from the dock, to Lake Drummond, which provides the water they use to keep the Swamp at constant level. It was a beautiful trip, and at the canal-lake junction, there is a tiny rail “trolley” you operate yourself to take your dinghy around the dam and into Lake Drummond, which was beautiful and no other boats were there. Great adventure!
      Cathryn and Bob
      aboard “Next to Me”,
      42′ Jefferson Sundeck

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

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    • Jan 28, 2012by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Word of Caution re Anchoring in Elizabeth City, NC, Dismal Swamp Route, Statute Mile 50

      While most cruisers opt to either tie up at the free Mariners Wharf City Docks or anchor south of the HWY 158 bridge, Mark is correct that the little cove north of the bridge at mile 50 does appear to be a good anchorage, but is not. However, south of the bridge puts you much closer to the downtown area. Also, note that the facility described as “a marina on the south shore” below, is really the private Elizabeth City Yacht Club.Either way.
      However you visit, don’t forget Elizabeth City is a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!

      CAUTION when anchoring near 50 mile mark! Right at the 50 mile mark, there is a Marina on the South shore. It’s close to the highway, and it gives the appearance of a nice place to anchor ‘¦ figuring nice folks are nearby, (with about 30 boats docked at the marina), and nothing else. And it appears that if necessary, one can dingy up and get to shore if needed. HOWEVER ‘¦ look close at the charts! There are very ugly serious underwater hazards out from the pier, both to the East and West of that 50 mile line on chart. Looking out away from the pier to the NNW and North East, these nasty hazards are visible when the wind blows hard from the North for a few days. There is a particular nasty sunken barge NNW of the pier!! A Tow Boat had a very hard time pulling a 40’ cruiser off a sunken barge last year. The story is this area was used as a graveyard for numerous wood barges back in the day.

      This area is a good place to anchor, as long as you stay very far from shore, and are East of the 50 mile line. If you see evidence of a sunken barge up near the shore, there is likely another big one 200 to 300 feet closer to you that you cannot see. If you stay directly North of this pier/marina/yacht club, you’ll be fine. The club boaters know of these hazards, and will watch out for you when coming and going. There’s plenty of room for a boat to anchor and local boats to work around you. On a direct line from this pier, I’m guessing one has clearance from obstructions to no more than 100 feet to the West, and at maybe 300 feet to the East. That pier is the Pasquotank River Yacht Club. We hope to mark these hazardous soon. We’ve been unsuccessful with getting any government agency to take it on, so we may try to do it ourselves. We usually have no slips available, but don’t hesitate to holler and say hi! However in an emergency, don’t hesitate to beach it between pier and our club house which you can see just SW of pier. Some members have beached there to clean the bottom. If you see anyone hanging around the pier, and want to dingy over for fresh water, that shouldn’t be a problem; hopefully you can talk someone into handing you a hose to let you fill up. We know it’s a bit awkward getting water downtown.
      Mark H.

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Mariners Wharf [Elizabeth] City Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Elizabeth City, NC

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    • Nov 30, 2011by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      Dismal Swamp Canal AICW Alternate Route vs AICW – North Carolina, Virginia Cut Route

      Friends Doing the Dismal

      Fellow nautical writer, Wally Moran, does a very nice job below of summarizing the attributes and demerits of these two alternate AICW passages that lead from Norfolk, VA to North Carolina waters, or the other way around. And, by the way, the text below is copied from Captain Wally’s new “LiveBloggin’ the ICW” site at:
      http://bloggingtheicw.blogspot.com/

      Will asked me about the two options heading south – the Virginia Cut and the Dismal Swamp. Great question.
      Friends doin’ the Dismal
      I prefer the Dismal Swamp – it’s wonderfully scenic, as you can see. Good protection from wind, and the stop at Deep Creek Lock to visit Rob, the lockmaster, is always a treat. Leaving the Dismal, you stop by Elizabeth City for a free night’s dockage and the cruisers’ welcome party each evening for a drink, and a rose for the ladies, a tradition started by two locals and now kept up by the city’s Chamber of Commerce.
      The only drawback is that the Dismal takes longer to run, and isn’t really feasible for boats drawing over six feet.
      The Virginia Cut brings you to Virginia City and the Great Bridge Lock, a marvel to see in and of itself, plus lots of fascinating tugboat and commercial traffic.
      I usually do one route on the trip down, and the other on the return, just to enjoy the best of both worlds. The one other proviso is if the exit from the route will permit me to sail on the Albermarle. There is enough distance between them to make a difference in how you trim your sails.
      Wally Moran

      Hi Claiborne ‘“ my blog showed dozens of unexpected hits today ‘“ so I looked at my stats and, sure enough, they were coming from here [SSECN]. Maybe you can encourage your readers to add to the list of the World’s Greatest Boating Songs ‘“ there will be prizes, such as copies of my video, Sailing South ‘“ First Timer’s Guide to the ICW, or Forbidding, Forbidden Cuba. Maybe I can get you to toss in a copy of one of your books? I refuse to give up my copy of your Florida guide, it’s a fun read.
      If anyone is curious, they can get a peek at the trailers for both videos at http://www.thesailingchannel.tv/icw or /cuba.
      Thanks again Claiborne. Tomorrow, off to start the ICW for the 18th time.

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    • Nov 14, 2011by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Recommendation of Goat Island Anchorage, AICW Dismal Swamp Alternate Route, Statute Mile 43.5

      Goat Island Anchorage will be discovered on the waters of Pasquotank River north of Elizabeth City. Be sure the enter the anchorage behind Goat Island from the southeastern end of the cut.

      10/31/2011 Stayed at this anchorage during gale force winds from the NNE. Very good holding. Good protection.
      Patty Tate

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Goat Island Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Goat Island

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    • Nov 2, 2011by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Report on Passage of the Dismal Swamp AICW Canal Alternate (North Carolina AICW)

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programEven though Captain Jim’s account below is taken from a June, 2011 passage of the Dismal Swamp Canal, we thought it contained so MUCH good info, that it deserved a November posting here on the Cruisers’ Net!
      Jim is quite correct about the danger of submerged and semi-submerged debris on the canal. It’s best to go slow and take in the sights. Those who are in a hurry would be better served by the North Carolina – Virginia Cut route (a. k. a. Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal).

      I took the Dismal Swamp in June form the south and it was beautiful but you need to know a few things first. The locks were on a limited opening schedule of twice a day which I think has changed but you need to confirm that. Second I struck a submerged obstruction and bent my starboard prop about 1.5 miles north of the VA/NC state line. I never saw anything even after we hit it so be very careful. As a side note there was plenty of water depth and it did not go below 7 feet. Thankfully we were at idle speed so the damage was minor. BE careful but even saying that I do not know how I would have avoided it. If your props are more protected than my you might not need to worry. There is a great free dock at the welcome center near the state line with a very good park of hikes into the swamp. If you are interested in nature you can not go wrong. You will likely see wood ducks, many types of wood peckers and as well as other mammals. They have a very nice nature center across form the welcome center docks. When you get to Elizabeth City There are also free dock at the town docks. Enjoy the trip.
      Jim Wagner

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For the Elizabeth City Mariner’s Wharf Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Mariner’s Wharf Docks

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    • Oct 27, 2011by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Quite A Crowd At Deep Creek Lock (AICW Alternate Dismal Swamp Canal Route!

      Just in case anyone didn’t think the fall 2011 transient season wasn’t well underway. Take a look at this photo!

      Robert of Deep Creek Lock squeezed 18 boats in the lock yesterday – we were like sardines in a can. I found the whole thing quite hilarious!
      Arnold Parkinson

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    • Oct 18, 2011by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report on Pelican Marina, Dismal Swamp Route, Elizabeth City, NC

      Pelican Marina guards the Pasquotank’s northern banks, northeast of unlighted daybeacon #8, just across the river from the downtown Elizabeth City, NC waterfront.
      Cruising News:
      One of the really great things about cruising around is the consistency of friendly service we get time and time again at marinas we have found along the way. An example of this consistently friendly service is the staff at the Pelican Marina, in Elizabeth City. The manager, Josh, came in after hours on a day off, to catch our lines and make us feel welcome.
      Bring a little bag of dry cat food with you. There are a half dozen snapping turtles that will come up to the dock at the marina office, and beg for food. Talk about a marina that’s turtle friendly ‘“ and not just the MTOA turtles.
      This is another spot we will frequent, both North and South bound.

      Click Here To View This Facility’s Full Listing of Services on the North Carolina Marina Directory
      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Pelican Marina

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    • Oct 13, 2011by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      A Good Experience with the “Carolina Loop”

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programThe so-called “Carolina Loop” cruise consists of a journey north on the Dismal Swamp Canal, to the Norfolk, VA area. Most cruisers stay here for night or two, then cruise south via the AICW principal route, alternately known as the “North Carolina – Virginia Cut” and the “Albemarle – Chesapeake Canal.” This latter passage flows through a lock at Great Bridge, VA, then down the North Landing River, across a dredged passage bisecting northern Currituck Sound, through a canal bisecting the marina rich, but tiny village of Coinjock, NC, down the North River to a short hop west on the Albemarle Sound, and finally north on the Pasquotank River to Elizabeth City, NC. This latter community is a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, and has the deserved reputation of being one of the most cruiser friendly stops anywhere.
      Of course, you can start the loop at any convenient place, and there are variations, but the account above lays out the general route. It’s a great trip!

      I did the Carolina Loop last year from up in the Chesapeake to Norfolk then to Coinjock, Elizabeth City, Great Bridge, Norfolk and home. It was a total of 245+/- miles. It is a wonderful short trip with a lot of wilderness and undeveloped river country. It was not a difficult trip from a navigation or logistical point of view but a nice introduction to canal, river, sound and swamp cruising. I recommend it as a test cruise and short adventure for anyone in the Tidewater area. There are three locks (Great Bridge, South Mills and Deep Creek), a few bridges and some open sound to traverse. The only real issue is the limited opening times of the locks. That changes from time to time based on water levels so check before you leave as to what schedule they are operationing on now. In Coinjock there are two marinas for fuel, food and lodging. There are many in Norfolk and Portsmouth and Elizabeth City has free docking at the town docks but not power. Water depth was never an issue but be alert to snags in the Dismal Swamp part and the North Landing River sections. Have a good time.
      Jim Wagner
      (Daddy’s Dream

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Elizabeth City’s Mariners Wharf Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Mariners Wharf Docks

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Midway Marina

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

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Coinjock Marina

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

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    • Sep 28, 2011by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      A Good Report from Dismal Swamp Canal, AICW Alternate Route

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programThe Great Dismal Swamp Canal route southbound departs the primary AICW – North Carolina-Virginia Cut, south of Norfolk at Statute Mile 7.2 and begins officially at Deep Creek Lock at Mile 10.6. Elizabeth City at statute mile 50.5 is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      We traversed the Dismal Swamp canal today. We highly recommend this route as a quiet, picturesque “Lewis and Clark” channel to reach Elizabeth City. Both locks are on full schedule. The floating debris was no more than usual. Water depth was at least 6.5′ and over 7.5′ in many sections. There was no smoke in the air although the swamp fire is not fully contained. There was no excessive vegetation, as there had been earlier in September.
      We’re tied up tonight at Elizabeth City and had a great dinner at Cypress Creek Grill across the street. We’re headed across Albermarle tomorrow before the forecasted front kicks up the wind.
      Capt. Wendy Young aboard “Blue Crab” Island Gypsy 32.

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dismal Swamp Canal

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    • Jul 6, 2011by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Warm Praise for Elizabeth City, NC (Dismal Swamp Canal Route, St. M. 50.5)

      Elizabeth City has been known as one of the most welcoming ports of call for many, many years. The late Fred Fearing used to greet cruisers with a rose for all the female members of the crew, and an incredibly warm welcome for everyone aboard. Sadly, Fred passed away a few years ago, but the “Rose Buddy” volunteer efforts he pioneered, live on in Elizabeth City, as evidenced by the message below, copied from the MTOA List-Serve.
      And, let’s not forget, Elizabeth City is a much valued SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      We have just had the best experience in Elizabeth City. On one of the hottest 4th of Julys ever, the water pump for the air conditioner gave up the ghost. I disconnected the pump and took it into the little ships store here at Pelican Marina. Everyone wanted to help, but what do you do with a 22 year old pump? Finally the managers, Josh & Mike, said to take it to “Electric Motor Rewind Co” on Poindexter Street. I did, and the owner said to leave it with him for about an hour, and go eat at the Colonial Restaurant, 3 blocks away. After a great breakfast, we returned to the Rewind company and found our air conditioner water pump all fixed and ready for installation. $24.89 was all he charged us.
      Then, walking back over the bridge to Pelican Marina, we met the Bridge Master, Jack Brothers, who said if we needed a ride he would let us use his pickup truck.
      Everyone here in Elizabeth City has been really great to us. Must be something in the water.
      We’ll be back, and we’ll be recommending Elizabeth City to everyone we meet.
      Skipper Jim Powell

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For The Mariners Wharf Elizabeth City Docks

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Pelican Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Elizabeth City Waterfront

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    • Jun 10, 2011by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Elizabeth City Gets Better and Better, Dismal Swamp Route, Statute Mile 50.5

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programElizabeth City and the Rose Buddies have been charming cruising visitors to the City Docks since 1983. Over 15 years ago, my family and I were privileged to meet the original Rose Buddy, Fred Fearing, who passed away in 2007, and we got the same warm greeting and assistance as did Ken and Francie. Isn’t it wonderful that some things do not change! The city docks are officially called Mariner’s Wharf City Docks and dockage is free for 48 hours, although we were once allowed to stay for three days when high winds prevented the Alligator River Bridge from opening. We are proud to report that Elizabeth, NC is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      Elizabeth City has major improvements for boaters since our last stop a few years ago, thanks to former mayor Atkinson who now owns a trawler. Enjoy Saturday morning farmer’s market at mariner wharf May – October. Farm Fresh market, a great new grocery store, picks boaters up at the wharf with a phone call. We enjoyed First Friday gallery walk and new art center downtown. The new library and Albermarle museum exhibits are terrific. We highly recommend Elizabeth City to anyone cruising the area.
      Capt. Wendy Young aboard “Blue Crab” 32′ Island Gypsy, Punta Gorda FL

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Elizabeth City’s Mariners’ Wharf City Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Elizabeth City Waterfront

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    • May 11, 2011by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      New Fans of Elizabeth City, NC, Dismal Swamp Route, Statute Mile 50.5

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programElizabeth City and the Rose Buddies have been charming cruising visitors to the City Docks since 1983. Over 15 years ago, my family and I were privileged to meet the original Rose Buddy, Fred Fearing, who passed away in 2007, and we got the same warm greeting and assistance as did Ken and Francie. Isn’t it wonderful that some things do not change! The city docks are officially called Mariner’s Wharf City Docks and dockage is free for 48 hours, although we were once allowed to stay for three days when high winds prevented the Alligator River Bridge from opening. We are proud to report that Elizabeth, NC is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      We are presently in Elizabeth City and have found the city to be a very warm and friendly place. The Rose Buddies met us at the FREE dock and we were helped to dock and invited to wine and cheese as well as helpful info about the city. i was taken by a member to get propane cheers and fuel. He would not accept anything. We had a wonderful time visiting with the Rose Buddies and gained much info about the city, museum, and places to shop. We had a great meal at Groupers and a fine lunch at Quality Sea Food . This afternoon we visited the Museum and spent much time going through their quality exhibits. This is a must stop for anyone traveling the AICW and the Dismal Swamp.
      Ken & Francie Bushee

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Mariners’ Wharf City Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Mariner’s Wharf City Docks

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    • Oct 27, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      More of Captain Jones’ Log on the Great Dismal Swamp Canal and Elizabeth City, NC

      Click to learn more about our Carolina Loop programTed Jones continues his navigation of the Great Dismal Swamp Canal stopping in Elizabeth City, NC. The Great Dismal Swamp Canal route southbound departs the AICW south of Norfolk at Statute Mile 7.2 and begins officially at Deep Creek Lock at Mile 10.6. The Visitors Center is at approximately Mile 28. Elizabeth City is south of South Mills Lock at Statute Mile 50.7 and is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!

      Log, October 21, 2010 ~ Dismal Swamp Welcome Center, NC to Elizabeth City, NC:
      There were seven sailboats tied up to the bulkhead, and one small powerboat joined us early. Most of the southbound cruisers wanted to make the 1100 lock, which meant leaving at 1000. Jim had not seen the museum located on the opposite bank of the canal, so we decided we could wait until the 1300 lock if need be, slipping out from alongside out host then taking his place at the bulkhead. Jim went off to cross over the floating bridge to the museum, and I went looking for Penny Leary-Smith, the welcome center manager. I didn’t have to go far, as she was on the dock, talking to cruisers. We chatted for a bit, then I went to the welcome center to sign the guest register and complete a survey the staff had prepared to indicate the importance of the center in the face of severe budget restraints by the state. It is MHO that this is an extremely important first (and last) stop for tourists entering the state by both automobile and boat. As far as is known, it is the only welcome center of its kind in the country serving, as it does, both boat and vehicle traffic.
      Jim returned well before 1000, so we decided to leave with the rest and go for the 1100 lock. We soon passed the slow pokes in front (at 5.9 knots) and were first to reach the lock. There was method in my madness, as that would put us in the lead into Elizabeth City and assure us of a place at the dock. And so it was. We were far ahead of the second boat and were accorded our own passage under the Elizabeth City Bridge. We were soon tied up in a narrow slip (to be preferred as that made it easier to reach the outer pilings for stern and spring lines. We were met by two `dockboys’ ~ both well over 70 who took our port and starboard bow lines while we made fast aft. It is not a great dock, as marinas go, but the price is right, and nowhere have we been met by two dockhands who welcomed us with all sorts of information about their town including an invitation to attend the `rose buddies’ free wine and cheese party later. Although both of the original rose buddies have gone to Heaven (guaranteed), the city maintains the tradition they started.
      I went off to the Farm Fresh supermarket, which had sent a car to pick up anyone wanting to shop there. When I got back, the wine and cheese party had already begun, sto I hastily stacked out provisions on the bow and went to join Jim, who the dock boy told me had already gone there. What a place! One could not ask for better hospitality, and the dock is located in the old part of town near many convenient services and stores. Fantastic!
      Captain Ted Jones, former owner of Coastal Cruising Magazine

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    • Oct 27, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Captain Jones Navigates the Great Dismal Swamp Canal

      Once again Ted Jones regales us with his colorful descriptions of the waters of the AICW. The Great Dismal Swamp Canal route southbound departs the primary AICW – North Carolina, Virginia Cut, south of Norfolk at Statute Mile 7.2 and begins officially at Deep Creek Lock at Mile 10.6. The Dismal Swamp Canal Visitors Center is at approximately Mile 28.

      Log October 20, 2010 ~ Portsmouth, VA to the Great Dismal Swamp welcome center:
      Jim had never done the Dismal Swamp Canal route, so this was a refreshing experience for him. The impressive thing to me is that here we were on an ocean capable vessel on a canal lined with trees. The feeling is one of strange remoteness from the sea, akin to being in a foreign element which we were.
      Once through the Deep Creek Lock in Virginia, the canal stretches for 11 miles in a dead straight line. Portions of the former route 17 (now a four lane highway in Virginia, relocated away from the canal) have been converted into a hiking and bicycle path which parallels the canal. Benches and picnic tables have been provided, even trash cans which we wondered were emptied how often and by whom. It is a significant improvement to not have the peace and tranquility of the canal interrupted by the blatting exhaust notes of 18 wheelers.
      The canal bends 20 degrees to the left soon after it passes the feeder canal to Lake Drummond. Then the VA/NC state line is crossed, and U.S 17 reappears adjacent to the canal. Our plan was to spend the night at the Welcome Center, and when we got there the only space available was to raft up with fellow cruisers aboard a spiffy Caliber, and there we spent the night, not going ashore until morning.
      Captain Ted Jones, former owner of Coastal Cruising magazine

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dismal Swamp Canal

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    • Sep 2, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Difficulties with Holding in Railroad Bridge Anchorage, Dismal Swamp Route, Statute Mile, 47.5

      We’ve all had situations like this and it’s why the old salts recommend carrying two different style anchors, such as a CQR along with a Danforth, as well as a good length of chain on your rode. Railroad Bridge Anchorage is just on the outskirts of Elizabeth City, NC.

      I tried for well over an hour at multiple spots and could not get my Danforth to hold anywhere in this anchorage.
      Capt. Gary Riddick

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Railroad Bridge Anchorage

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    • Aug 20, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      A Hurricane Hole Recommendation for NC from John Kettlewell

      An excellent suggestion from one of the leading authorities on the AICW. This recommendation should also work south of Deep Creek Lock in the Virginia portion of the Dismal Swamp Canal. Thank you John!

      My choice would be to get inside the Dismal Swamp Canal past the first lock {South Mills Lock, mile 33.2}. Then you don’t have to worry about storm surge, just the wind and there would be no fetch.
      John Kettlewell, Editor of The Intracoastal Waterway Chartbook

      Click Here To View Other Suggestions on Hurricane Holes in NC

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    • Jul 14, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      More from Captain Ted’s Log from Statute Mile 27 to Statute Mile Zero (via Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate Route)

      Captain Ted continues his northbound voyage through the Great Dismal Swamp Canal in North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia.

      We took our time getting away from the NC Welcome Center, leaving a boat card for Penny Leary-Smith, the center’s director whom Ted has known since it opened 21 years ago (he was at the dedication). We almost never get to see Penny, but soon after he left the card, she came hurrying down the path to the dock. It was a grand but brief reunion. Ted insisted on taking her photo to commemorate the occasion.
      Our day on the canal was marred only by the presence of the pesky yellow flies which ignored the drier sheets and insisted on biting our legs, which still itch 24 hours later (and after a much needed shower ashore).
      The Dismal Swamp Canal is dead straight for 11 miles to a slight jog, then dead straight for the next 11 miles. It parallels Route 17, a busy four-lane highway, but the traffic is barely perceptible on the canal, screened by trees, and the sound drowned out by one’s own engine. Part of the old, two lane, Route 17 in Virginia has been renamed `Dismal Swamp Road’ and is now a path restricted for bicyclists and pedestrians.
      We were passed through the highway bridge and into the lock as we arrived at Deep Creek, and soon were winding the last miles of the Dismal Swamp route, joining with the main waterway at the Route 17 high rise bridge. We just missed a opening of the Gilmerton Bridge, so had to wait for motor vehicle traffic to simmer down before we were given passage. Happily, there was no rail traffic on the adjacent railroad bridge which can delay one for a long time while the train crew makes up its train and departs. More happiness: the Jordan Bridge has been removed so apart from railroad lift bridges ~ normally open ~ Gilmerton Bridge is the only restriction in this part of Norfolk Harbor.
      We took on fuel, had our holding tank pumped, and took on ice at Tidewater Marine in Portsmouth adjacent to Hospital Point and the `mile 0’ ICW marker, and there we spent the night.
      Captain Ted Jones

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