We are very pleased to present the article below, authored by our good friends, Captains Chuck Baier and Susan Landry, owners of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com). They provide a really in-depth look at the strategically placed, but navigationally challenging Little Alligator River Anchorage.
In fact, Little Alligator River is the northernmost AICW anchorage, short of the often choppy (read that as “downright rough”) Albemarle Sound. Of course, you can always choose to berth at Alligator River Marina, just north of the bridge (a. k. a. “Miss Wanda’s place), or, on the opposite banks, “South Lake” is a real possibility as well.
Many cruisers, however, make the same choice as Susan and Chuck and set their bows for Little Alligator River. Read the article below, and learn a LOT more about what you are likely to discover!

The Little Alligator River anchorage is an excellent spot to wait out weather for either crossing the Albemarle Sound or heading south on the Alligator River. Either of these can be very unpleasant if the winds are high and from the wrong direction. Turn east into the Little Alligator anywhere between red “10″ to green “11″ and you will find 10 or more feet of water at the entrance. One other thing that requires caution is the number of floats around the entrance and in the river itself. Although there are quite a few, there is also plenty of space to pass between the floats, but vigilance is required. Once inside the Little Alligator River, the floats disappear. We aren’t sure why this is, but we have seen this in several rivers in North Carolina.
We found the depths in the river to be about two feet deeper than charted. Keep in mind that winds can affect the depths in the Alligator River and all connecting waters. The depths we found may be the norm, but may not be what other boaters find. Using the chartplotter, follow the deeper water behind Sandy Point or the wider and deeper water past Mill Point if winds are out of the east. Wind protection from any direction can be found for boats of almost any draft under seven feet. Pull in towards the shore, based on protection needed and as far in as draft will allow. There are visible stumps in some areas and the remains of an old wreck to the south between the entrance and Mill Point. Continuing in the river past Mill Point is a wide, deeper basin south of Rock Point that gives all around protection.
Because there is the possibility of stumps and snags on the bottom all along the rivers of this area, a trip line on the anchor might be a good idea. This will be helpful to pull the anchor out in reverse if it becomes seriously snagged. Be sure the trip line is strong enough to take the strain of pulling the anchor loose and long enough to get it up on deck and attach it to the windlass or a winch. We found this to be an excellent anchorage and sat out several storms in complete comfort and security.
Chuck Baier and Susan Landry,
Trawler Beach House

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Little Alligator River Anchorage

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Little Alligator River Anchorage

Belhaven's Current (First) Town Dock

The charming river village of Belhaven, NC has always held a special place in our hearts. This was our first-night stopover in 1979, on the cruise from Morehead City to our Nation’s Capital, that inspired yours truly to become a cruising guide author. On that occasion, we moored at River Forest Manor, and had a meal ashore that must have tipped my scales an additional five pounds. After that gut-busting repast, we wandered Belhaven’s quite lanes, and were absolutely charmed by the beautiful homes and lush lawns.
By early 2012, however, we weren’t very optimistic about Belhaven’s future with the cruising community. River Forest Manor Inn and Restaurant was closed, and the adjoining marina was in disrepair and seemingly hit or miss operation. The owners of the other privately owned pleasurecraft facility in town, Belhaven Waterway Marina, informed the SSECN that, while transient wet slip space would still be available, they were going to begin emphasizing longer term storage, and would no longer be able to support the SSECN through their sponsorship. Furthermore, our favorite in-town dining attraction, Back Bay Cafe/Wine and Words, had closed, and moved its operation to Washington, NC.
ALL THAT CHANGED IN A BIG WAY by the end of last year. A new town dock was constructed and opened with free wet slip space for visiting cruisers. And, as you will learn in Susan and Chuck’s superb story below, power and water connections, as well as a dinghy dock, have now been added to this pier, and a SECOND town dock is under construction. Additionally, there are new dining choices in Belhaven.
By mid 2013, there is very good reason to believe that Belhaven and its businesses are making a mighty effort to welcome the cruising community in every way possible. We strongly suggest you heed their invitation, and discover the charms of this quite, friendly village for yourself.
We are once again highly indebted to Captains Susan Landry and Chuck Baier, owners of Beach House Publications, publishers of “The Great Book of Anchorages,” (http://www.tgboa.com) for providing the superb, in-depth article and copious photographs, describing all the exciting changes taking place in this port of call, below. THANKS CHUCK AND SUSAN! Please read on!

Beach House (Susan and Chuck's Trawler) At Belhaven Town Docks

Belhaven, North Carolina
On September 21, 2013 the town of Belhaven, North Carolina will hold the 1st annual Birthplace of the Inland Waterway Celebration. You might ask yourself, what is the Inland Waterway and why are they celebrating? The Inland Waterway is the original name for what is today called the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The reason Belhaven plans a celebration is because in August of 1928, 20,000 people, politicians, dignitaries, Coast Guard contingents, Corps of Engineers, Naval airplanes and powerboat racers converged on Belhaven to celebrate the completion of a 22-mile canal linking the Alligator and Pungo Rivers. This canal was the final component to complete the Inland Waterway and allow commerce to flow from the northern ports as far as Boston to Beaufort without having to go out into the Atlantic around Cape Hatteras. Belhaven officially became a seaport and also became known for its lumber industry, with 13 sawmills, 2-world renown, a growing seafood industry and a reputation for hospitality, second to none.

The Belhaven of today is still a welcome port to recreational boaters traveling north and south along the Intracoastal Waterway. Not only does the city welcome boaters, they have made improvements not found in any other stops along the ICW. While many other towns are enacting restrictions, crowding out anchorages with moorings and pulling up the welcome mat, Belhaven is spending time and money to encourage boaters to stop by, visit and stay awhile to experience true southern hospitality. Would you believe they have completed a large town dock that is free and that the town dock provides power and water on the docks for free? And there is a pump-out (for a fee, sorry), at the town dock. Would you believe, there is another free town dock under construction, with free power and water? Well believe it. I asked the Town Manager, Guinn Leverett, why the town of Belhaven would go to such lengths for boaters at no charge and the answer was simple. To encourage boaters to come to Belhaven and enjoy what it has to offer.

Belhaven's Second Town Dock - Under Construction

The town received matching funds through the Boating Infrastructure Grant progam for the docks and from the Public Health Services for the pump-out. The pump-out fees must remain at $5.00 for 4 years. To use the pump-out, the boater needs to purchase a token at the hardware store across the street and insert it in a slot at the pump near the head of the dock. The current dock is accessed by turning into the canal, known as Wynn’s Gut, next to the hospital. A row of pilings will be on your port and the remains of an old dock on your starboard. There is a railing around the end of the dock with an open gateway about halfway along. This is where the pump-out hose is located. A little farther along, the dock opens up and has tall pilings along the deck with sturdy cleats on which to tie. There are six power outlets with 30-amp service and hose bibs for water. There is even a water hose on the dock for boaters to use. It just doesn’t get any better than this. The canal is narrow and best suited for small to medium size boats. We would consider about 40 feet to be near the limit. Larger boats will not be able to turn around in the canal, but if backing up is not a problem, other than very large vessels, size may not be that important. We found 7 feet at the dock, but less on the opposite side of the canal. At this writing, there is bridge construction going on farther up the canal, but it was not disturbing and will be completed soon.

Belhaven is a small town with all of the same issues of any small town in today’s economy. There are some empty storefronts in the downtown area, but the town is working to make improvements. Three of the storefronts are under contract and should have tenants in short order. A new restaurant, Tavern at Jack’s Neck, is scheduled to open on Pamlico Street, a very short walk from the dock. Across the street from the dock on Pamlico is Farm Boys and the Front Porch, selling sandwiches and other fast foods and offering music and entertainment on weekends. For finer dining, the menu and cuisine at Spoon River is not to be missed. If a quick lunch menu or early meal is your choice, there is Fish Hooks Café or Gingerbread Bakery and O’Neal’s Café over on Main Street.

Rudlick and Whitley Hardware is across the street from Jack’s on Pamlico. This is a full-service hardware with “more stainless steel fasteners than most shipyards.” They also carry some basic boating supplies and have a very nice gift center. A coin-operated laundry is about 4 blocks from the waterfront on Pamlico next to the car wash.

Belhaven Dinghy Dock

O’Neal’s Drug Store has moved a mile up the road to Main and 264, and the Food Lion Supermarket is out on Highway 264, about 1 ½ miles from the town dock. A ride or a bicycle will be needed to get to the supermarket unless you’re really into walking. Don’t miss a visit to the old City Hall, listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings. The Belhaven Museum, on the second floor, is open from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, but closed on Wednesday and Sunday. Guinn Leverett, the town manager, describes some of the exhibits as “many, many grandmother’s attics.” Many of the items on exhibit were from donations and estates from local citizens reflecting the people and their history. The Post Office and town library are within walking distance of the waterfront.

The space at the town dock is limited, and like us, most boaters may want to spend some additional time relaxing, enjoying leisure activities or just doing some fishing. If you happen to be visiting during one of the annual festivals put on each year, like the Pirates on the Pungo Festival or the 4th of July festivities, the free town dock will probably be full. In the past, Riverforest Marina was the crown jewel of Belhaven. The stately manor with its excellent food and well-known buffet was the place to dine for boaters and land cruisers alike. You could fuel up, dock your boat, enjoy fine food and the pool and sauna in a true southern setting. But alas, the jewels have fallen from the crown. The restaurant has been closed for some time, however, the marina is sort of accepting boats for dockage. The property owner lives in a house on the grounds. If you pull in to the docks and tie up, don’t expect any dockhands or Dockmaster, and if the owner happens to see you there, he will probably come down the dock and charge you something to tie up. The docks are getting tired and the property is showing its age. Belhaven Waterway Marina provides dockage and is located in the downtown area. Many boaters stay at Dowry Creek Marina on, yes, Dowry Creek. It is a distance from town but provides a courtesy car for transportation and has a club house, pool, ships store, wifi and tennis courts.

Belhaven also has a very large anchorage for boaters that prefer the solitude. Just behind the town dock is a new floating dinghy dock, well-protected inside the canal. Be sure and have a current chart of the area and beware of the shallow area just off the waterfront that must be negotiated around to get to the deeper anchorage. The holding

Belhaven City Hall and Museum

is good in the harbor and Belhaven has just rebuilt the seawall separating the harbor from the Pungo River. Strong southerly winds can make the anchorage uncomfortable.

A second Town dock is under construction and at this time needs only the power, water, cleats and safety equipment installed and it will be available to the boating public. The second dock is farther north toward the bridge in the harbor between the grain silos and the old brick chimney from the original cooperage mill. This second dock is about ¾ mile from the center of downtown, but is much closer to Highway 264, where one finds the grocery store, Dollar General and O’Neals Pharmacy. This is a well-constructed, sturdy dock with concrete decks, slips with finger piers and outer pilings for four boats, and an alongside tie opposite the slips. There is an end tee that a smaller boat could use. It’s in a quiet and beautiful setting, but there is some noise occasionally from the grainery. The second dock is just a further commitment by the city to make Belhaven inviting to the transient boater.

If you haven’t been to Belhaven before, we highly recommend you stop and visit. If you haven’t been to Belhaven for a while, like us, we highly recommend you stop by and see what’s new. We believe you won’t be disappointed.
Chuck Baier and Susan Landry
Trawler Beach House
Beach House Publications

We love Belhaven.
We have never been able to walk to the grocery store out on the highway because every time we tried, someone picked us up within a block of walking and took us there. Returning back, the same happens again. One time, we were finishing lunch at the Fishhook Cafe and the waitress asked us what we were planning to do for the day. We told her we were going to walk to the grocery store and she insisted on driving us! She asked her boss if she could take a minute to drive us to the store and immediately got the OK.
We love Belhaven.
Mark

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

Check out LOTS more Belhaven photos by clicking the graphic below:

US House Representative Mike McIntyre

The article and photo below are copied from a new resource we have just discovered, “DredgingToday.com” (http://www.dredgingtoday.com). While this is an international publication, and you must sift through the articles for dredging news that pertains to Southeastern USA waters, we think this web site is a valuable source of information for cruisers, and particularly those who are members of the Southeastern Marine/Pleasurecraft Industry. Give it a look.
More specifically, as to the news below, US House Representative Mike McIntyre (http://mcintyre.house.gov/) has, for many years now, been a tireless dredging proponent for both the AICW, and the entire North Carolina coastline. I have had the good fortune to speak at several conferences which were also addressed by Congressman McIntyre, and this writer has always come away very impressed indeed.
The editorial opinion of both myself and the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net, is that Congressman Mike McIntyre richly deserves our unqualified support!
Again, referring to the article below, note the $1,896,200 set aside for AICW maintenance. While we could always wish for more, this is GREAT news. Let’s just hope the ACOE puts these funds to good use SOON, and dredges the problem sections of the North Carolina AICW, particularly the AICW/Lockwoods Folly Inlet and the AICW/Shallotte Inlet intersections!

McIntyre: Great Day for North Carolina’s Coast (USA)
Posted on Jun 25th, 2013 with tags Americas, Carolina, Coast, day, dredging, Great, McIntyre, News, North, USA.
Great Day for North Carolina’s Coast

U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre announced that the Wilmington Port, Brunswick County Beaches, Pender County Beaches, and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway have received $24,548,804 in federal funds.

Congressman McIntyre stated, “This is a great day for North Carolina’s coast! Ensuring federal funds for our coastal communities is one of my highest priorities, and we are thrilled that these funds are coming home to make a difference. We will continue to fight for every penny for every pebble of sand because our coast is worth it!”

In March 2013, Congressman McIntyre met with Corps of Engineers Assistant Secretary Jo-Ellen Darcy to discuss the importance of federal funds to North Carolina’s coast and to request funding for specific essential projects in the Army Corps of Engineers 2013 Work Plan.

Specific details of the funding in the 2013 Work Plan are:

• Wilmington Port — $16,376,182 for Operations and Maintenance;
• Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway — $1,896,200 for Operations and Maintenance;
• Cape Fear River Above Wilmington — $488,022 for Operations and Maintenance;
• Surf City and North Topsail Beach – $274,450 for Investigations;
• Wilmington Harbor Improvements – $49,900 for Investigations;
• Brunswick County Beaches — $5,464,050 for Construction (Ocean Isle Beach, Caswell Beach, Oak Island, and Holden Beach).

Carolina Beach Mooring Field - Click for Chartview

Carolina Beach Mooring Field is off the Waterway in the harbor channel leading to Carolina Beach commercial district. The mouth of the harbor is south of Snows Cut’s eastern entrance.

Raft off’s not allowed at Carolina Beach mooring as of 5-18-2013 even if all pays the $20. While there two local boats one hooked to ball other rafted off hooked to ball for less than an hour and were charged $20 each one was no more than 50 yards from his marina also the tender told me that the $20 is per calendar day if you are there on 18th is $20 still there on 19th another $20 not for a 24 hour time period as I left to help my friend get his boat back to marina and received a call stating that I would be sent a bill from Carolina Beach for $20 when told I was not staying that is when he told be it was not a 24 hour period. Just FYI for anyone else stopping by Carolina Beach mooing. Did enjoy my stay there as it was my first over nite trip and raft off with newly purchased sailboat.
Billy

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Carolina Beach Mooring Field

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Carolina Beach Mooring Field

Long time SSECN contributor and correspondent, Captain Jane Tigar, has just sent us these two recent photos of the Morehead City Public Docks. This facility is found on the western end of the Morehead City Waterfront channel, west of Captain Bill’s Restaurant.

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Morehead City Public Docks

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Morehead City Public Docks

Below, you will see a recent discussion about navigating the AICW Alternate Dismal Swamp Canal Route, as of June, 2013, which appeared on another nautical mailing list. There’s some really GOOD cruising advice here, particularly concerning the free dock near the Deep Creek Lock.
As always, those who run the Dismal should plan on taking it slow, to avoid stirring up any underwater debris. If you are in a hurry, this is not the route for you, but, if you have the time, the Dismal Swamp Canal route is a fascinating ecological experience. And, the warm reception for cruisers at the free Elizabeth City, Mariner’s Wharf (City) Docks is a HUGE bonus!

We are heading southbound..yep, the wrong way. Never been through the Dismal Swamp. It appears to be 43 miles from Top Rack marina to Elizabeth City via the Dismal Swamp Route.
Has anyone ever done this in one day..all the way through?
R.

Yes, but the way to make it easy on you coming south is to go thru the Deep Creek Lock last locking of the day and stop at the free dock(sometimes called Elizabeth’s or Robert’s Dock) just south of the lock chamber but before the bridge. Then pass thru the bridge at the first locking the next day to get to Elizabeth City thru before last locking at the south lock.
The canal has a speed limit and 5.4 knts perfect for lock timing) (wakes can severely damage the wooden canal banks.and is narrow enough you don’t want to do a lot of passing.
The free dock up by Deep Creek Lock has deep water and easy walks to the strip mall restaurants, CVS, Winn Dixie Supermarket, Advance Auto, etc. on the other side of the canal. All these resources make it a great waiting place beating out the crowded Visitors Center or even Elizabeth City. This along side dock is super protected, has deep water 8′, no power but has water and trash barrels and a par course.
We much prefer the gentile laid back Dismal to the faster but busier Virginia Cut with all it’s delivery Captain Yacht traffic, commercial traffic and restricted Bridges that must be timed correctly..
Joe

Good points all around.
In a full displacement deep draft boat like we had, we had to go slower than the speed limit on the southern end of the swamp. You know you’re going too fast when you pull all the water away from the shore and suck up logs off the bottom.
Bob

Yes, [you] can make the entire distance in one day. Just be at the first lock when they open and average around 6 mph. You can catch the last opening of the lock on the way out. You can go a bit faster in the first half of your trip going south because the water is deeper. The second half, you’ll need to go a tad slower because you’ll suck debris (dead logs and crap) off the bottom. Anyone following you should be aware.
We did it in one day going north. Got to the last lock with about thirty minutes to spare. They opened the bridge so we could stay on the long dock that evening.
Bob

It would be a shame to rush through the Dismal Swamp Canal without taking time to visit Lake Drummond in your dinghy. Look up Lake Drummond on Wikipedia and then ask the lockmaster at Deep Creek to tell you about the little dock you can hang on right by the feeder ditch that leads up to the lake. After your trip to the lake you can run down to the Visitors Center and tie up for the night. Well worth it!
Tom

Yes, it’s an easy day.
You can stay at Top Rack, or the free dock, at the Deep Creek Canal or anchor overnight in the channel above Deep Creek Lock, or go through and stay at Elizabeth’s Dock or go through the bridge and stay at the Mexican Restaurant dock at Deep Creek. Lots of options. In any case, it’s 22 miles from Deep Creek to South Mills. If you go through at 08h30, you’ll travel at 5 StM/hr or less to make the opening at 13h30 on the other end. That puts you into Elizaabeth City before the afternoon bridge restrictions, and probably early enuf to get a slip at this time of year.
Jim

First I would like to say, take your time in the Dismal. When going South I go through the first lock during the last lock of the day and when you pass under the open bridge, to your port side will be a concrete wall. Tie up there for the night. You can walk to the grocery store to provision and there is an automotive store, if you need anything of the sort. Then you can leave at daybreak, BEFORE anyone else! Your chances of seeing much more wildlife is spectacular. There is an option to spend the night on a small dock across from the feeder ditch. You can take your dink to the lake, over a rail system ( kind of like big shoot for a dink) and explore. Take a GPS, everything looks the same out on the lake. This will get you into the visitor center early and give you time to explore the area. Be sure to sign the boaters log at the visitors center and pick up your free gifts. Also free water here. Next morning follow the boats into E city. If there is five or more new boats arriving they will have roses for the lady’s and complimentary wine/beer and cheese. E City is a MUST stop….and it is free!
Whatever you choose, getting through the first lock in the evening for an early start will get you to E City the same day. It’s the journey, not the destination.
Bill
Knot Tide Down

The tram at Lake Drum is out of service. Just passed it today. Unfortunately, had to push through to last bridge and bridge tender could/would not open. Currently tied to South Mills Bridge. Scary trying to get dog off onto walking bridge. All part of the journey!
Betsy Frye

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A Portion of the Dismal Swamp Canal, Hard By the VA – NC State Line

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

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

Mile Hammock Bay - Click for Chartview

Mile Hammock Bay anchorage’s entrance channel lies north of the gap between the ICW’s flashing daybeacon #66 and unlighted daybeacon #67.

Stayed here in January 2013, as well as May of 2013.
Quiet anchorage in January, pretty noisy in May. Helicopter flights – landings and takeoffs – included passing directly overhead at less than 500 ft, continued until 10:30 pm this May! My wife did not have to remind me to turn on the anchor light that evening.
I also found the area of poor holding this May. We slowly dragged as we set the anchor. Pulled it up, and on the second try, setting it more slowly, finally got it to grab. Interesting after maybe 100+ nights on the hook along the ICW, this is the only spot we didn’t grab the bottom first try. We may have powered down on it faster than the bottom could handle. Maybe the trick here is to back down a bit slower than normally.
Gregory Yount, SV Intermezzo

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Mile Hammock Bay Anchorage

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Mile Hammock Bay Anchorage

Below is a posting copied from the AGLCA forum about one of the really striking sights to be seen from the AICW/Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate Route’s passage down the Pasquotank River, south of Elizabeth City, NC.
Southeast of marker #5, you will catch sight of a huge rooftop sitting back from the shore; its location is noted on chart 12206. This immense structure was built during World War II for the manufacture of dirigibles. In times past, cruisers could actually catch sight of two mammoth buildings at this location. The larger of the two—one of the biggest wooden structures in the world—burned in spectacular fashion during 1995; at that time, it still served as a blimp factory, while the smaller of the two structures was leased to a furniture company. Now, the blimp plant has been moved to the surviving building, and dirigibles are once again being constructed in Elizabeth City. If you’re lucky, you may spot one of the mammoth balloons being tested as you pass.
Below, we hear from a former employee of the Blimp factory, in a reply to a question which originally appeared on the AGLCA forum.

It is 1 of 8 blimp hangars still remaining in the US. I worked in the hangar in the early 70′s where we built wood kitchen caninets.
Westinghouse owned that hangar and a huge, all wood hangar that housed TCOM who built blimps for overseas telecommunications. The wood hangar burned to the ground in 1995.
John & Cyndi Esch

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Blimp Factory on Pasquotank River

Wilmington Shortcut - Click for Chartview

Cruisers leaving the Waterway for the popular trip up the Cape Fear river to Wilmington, NC, are always tempted to take this well-charted shortcut north. However, this channel has always been iffy at best and the wise captain will continue south to join the Cape Fear at ICW marker #177 before turning north. See Chartview for a Navigation Alert posted in 2011.

NC – MYRTLE GROVE SOUND TO LITTLE RIVER – NEW RIVER TO CAPE FEAR RIVER – WILMINGTON SHORTCUT – SHOALING
Shoaling to a depth of 2.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Wilmington Shortcut Daybeacon 1 (LLNR 39785). Shoaling is encroaching into the navigable channel. Chart: 11534.

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Wilmington Shortcut

Oriental, NC - Click for Chartview

We are delighted to learn that this well-known business in Oriental, NC will remain open. Located on Hodges St. in Oriental, it has been the place to get boat gear and clothing. The new owners, McCotter’s Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! in nearby Washington, NC, have decided to restock and keep the Inland Waterway store open. They re-opened for business in April of 2011. www.inlandwaterwayonline.com

Inland Waterway Provision Co. is one of the best reasons to spend time in Oriental. Pat and Nancy were diligent finding supplies we needed for our boat and were always friendly and helpful even when we were fussy about the color of striping tape we needed. Oriental is well-known for taking care of transient cruisers, but the Provision Company went even further, offering rides and services that made it easy to be here without transportation. We thank them for their great service and hope they continue to thrive in the “Sailing Capital of North Carolina.”
Heidi Berger and Bill Raley

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

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

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

We have already published several articles about the exciting summer of events which will be taking place at SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Edenton, NC, as part of their 300th Anniversary celebration this year. Wow, looking at the calendar of events below, ALL Tar Heel cruisers should give their most serious consideration to pointing their bows west on Albemarle Sound to visit this very historic community!

July 04 300th Anniversary Celebration of the Annual 4th of July Reading of the Declaration of Independence with the Daughters of the American Revolution, 10 am, 1767 Chowan County Courthouse Green; 252-482-2637

July 04 300th Anniversary Celebration of the 34th Annual Celebration in Colonial Park at 4 pm with entertainment, food, crafts and a wonderful fireworks display at dusk – Optimist Club – 252-482-2323

July 13 2nd Saturdays – A family event with children’s activities, artists selling their creations, music and history, Historic Edenton State Historic Site, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

July 13-14 300th Celebration Edenton Bay Challenge Sailing Regatta, Colonial Park, EYC, 252-312-9042; http://www.eyc.org

August 01 – 31 Beat the Heat – Colonial Coping Strategies with Guided Tours of the Iredell House with emphasis on these methods – Historic Edenton State Historic Site, Fee, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

August 07 National Lighthouse Day began in 1889 – come and visit the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse in Colonial Park during the 300th Anniversary Year, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

August 08 Antique Farm Expo, American Legion Fairgrounds, 10 am – 4 pm, 252-482-4057; http://www.chowanfair.com

August 09 11th Annual Shrimp by the Bay in Celebration of the 300th Anniversary at Wharf Landing – 6 – 9 pm – tickets $30 Edenton-Chowan Chamber of Commerce – 252-482-3400

August 10 2nd Saturdays – A family event with children’s activities, artists selling their creations, music and history, 10 am – 2 pm, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

September 13 “Taste of Edenton” 6 – 8 pm, step back in time and enjoy foods reminiscent of the 300th on the Barker House Lawn on the waterfront, 252-482-7800, http://www.edentonhistoricalcommission.org

September 16-20 Constitution Week, celebrate the 226th anniversary during the 300th of the signing of the US Constitution. Exhibit, Tours emphasizing Edenton residents who were a part of this historic event, fee for tours, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

September 24–28 66th Annual Chowan County Regional Fair, Celebrating 300 Years with Amusement Rides, entertainment, exhibits, and great food, American Legion Fairgrounds, 252-482-4057; http://www.chowanfair.com

October 01 – 31 Historic Edenton State Historic Site offers hands-on experiences for 4th grade students with games, chores and domestic skills of the Colonial Era with an opportunity to make and take home their own handiwork, supply fee, reservations required, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

October 05 300th Anniversary Wings Over Edenton, Northeast Regional Airport, Soundside Road, 10 am – 4 pm, Harry Davis; 252-482-4664

October 05 Peanut Sailboat Regatta Celebrating 300 Years, Edenton Yacht Club, 252-312-9042; http://www.eyc.org

October 12 Annual Peanut 5k-Run or walk through the beautiful surroundings of Edenton Bay and Hayes Plantation, registration 8 am, Queen Anne Park, 252-482-8595

October 19 4th Annual ASSA Match Racing Championship Celebrating the 300th @ Colonial Park, 9 am sailboat races being, sponsored by the Edenton Yacht Club, 252-312-9042; http://www.eycnc.org

October 25-26 Edenton 300th Symposium, Play Penelope, by Carolyn Pasternant on Friday evening and a Symposium on the role of women in Colonial, pre-Revolutionary political life will be explored 10 am – 4 pm, Sally Frances Kehayes; 252-339-1321

October 31 Safe Trick or Treating with Destination Downtown Edenton, South Broad Street, 5:30 pm, 252-562-2740

November 01-30 Walking Tours during the 300th Anniversary featuring Edenton’s diverse architectural styles each Wednesday, fee charged, 252-482-2637; http://www.edenton.nchistoricsites.org

November 02 Open Fishing Tournament at Bayside Marina and Grill, 6 am until, 252-482-5343

November 22-23 Rocky Hock Opry Christmas Show Celebrating 300th Anniversary, Swain Auditorium, 200 E. Church Street; 7:30 pm; 252-340-3438

December 01 The Albemarle Chorale Annual Christmas Concert, Edenton United Methodist Church, 4 pm, 252-426-5891

December 06 Tree Lighting Ceremony, Destination Downtown, Kick off the joyous season with goodies, train rides and of course the lighting of the Town Tree with Santa, South Broad Street at 5:30 pm, 252-562-2740; http://www.mainstreetedenton.com

December 13-14 32nd Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour in Historic Edenton will bring the 300th Celebration Year of Festivities to a close with appropriate and exciting activities heralding the next 300 years, including making the holidays extra special by stepping inside some of the most beautifully decorated homes in Historic Edenton from 4 – 8 pm, Headquarters: The Barker House on the waterfront, Edenton Historical Commission, 252-482-7800; http://www.ehcnc.org

Other Weekend Events:

Holiday Repast at the Barker House, 1- until with special eggnog and refreshments; 252-482-7800

Annual Groaning Board at the Iredell House, 1- 5 pm, so many treats the table ‘groans’ and entertainment; 252-482-2637

Annual Wassail Bowl at the Cupola House, 1 – 5 pm, treats surrounded by period decorations; 252-482-2637

Confection Perfection at the Chowan Arts Council 1 – 5 pm, sweet treats in a holiday setting; 252-482-8005

Confederate Edenton Bell Battery Confederate Unit Living History program portraying the Edenton Bell Battery, 1767 Chowan County Courthouse Green 1-5 pm, Free and Public invited; Historic Edenton State Historic Site; 252-482-2637

December 13 Caroling in the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, 6 pm; 252-482-2637

December 14 Edenton-Chowan Christmas Parade, Floats, Boats, Horses, Marching Bands & holiday fun, 11 am, Broad Street; 252-482-3400

December 16 Period Holiday Decorations Workshop, Reservations required, Historic Edenton State Historic Site; 252-482-2637

*Please note that events are subject to change, updated on http://www.visitedenton.com
Nancy Nicholls
Chowan County TDA
http://www.visitedenton.com
252-482-0300
800-775-0111

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Edenton Harbor (City Docks)

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Carolina Beach State Park Marina - Click for Chartview

While Capt. Grooms certainly had a “one of those days” experience, most recent reviews on Carolina Beach State Park have been positive, unlike the one below. The tight quarters of the marina do need to be considered when electing to dock here, especially for a wide beam, as Capt. Grooms will attest.

Yes, almost empty marina. When I called, I was told they had plenty of room on a t-head for my 34 ft. PDQ power cat with a 17′ beam. Told to go to c dock, turn around, and dock on outside. There is absolutely NO space to turn around, and the only reason we averted a catastrophe was thanks to two fisherman who pushed us off and caught our line. Current is swift going into marina, unlike what guidebook says. The workers are courteous, but know nothing about running a marina, and saying that they were only paid minimum wage and were not allowed to help with docking. They acted like they’d never seen a catamaran, and told us they didn’t know how wide it was. Now we’re here, docked on the outside finally, and praying that we can back out of here when we get better weather. Huge trawler right in front of us, narrow entrance, huge pole in the middle for an unknown reason. So worried yesterday about tearing up my boat or someone else’s, while staff just watched. Worst docking experience I’ve ever had.
Beth Grooms

The water really races out of Snow’s Cut into the river leading to a really strong current.
Since this marina is really a State Park, they are just not equipped to run it like one [a marina]. A good opportunity for privatization.
David Craft
Occasional over-nighter at CBSP Marina

Click Here To View A Recent Posting on Carolina Beach State Park

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Carolina Beach State Park

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River Dunes Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is located off the AICW’s run along Neuse River, in Broad Creek between unlighted daybeacons #1 and #2.

Today is 5/12/13. Am writing this from River Dunes. We give this marina the highest rating for best facilities, help and over all a first class operation. A courtesy car is available to go to Oriental. Food store is limited. We ate several meals in the club house and the food and service are also first class, although somewhat limited. Reasonable dockage for this type of facility. Been here before and plan to come back.
Has Royer s/v Skye

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

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

The initial support vessel planned for this event has withdrawn due to mechanical problems. Please help Kacie find another!!

This sounds like a wonderful adventure. Contact Kacie Wallace at the email below to determine what requirements are needed to be a support vessel.

Cruising News:
On June 8, World Oceans Day, YOLO Board team rider Kacie Wallace and friend Kimberly Sutton will begin paddling up the North Carolina coast, from the South Carolina state line to Virginia. The two are making the trip to raise awareness of plastics pollution in the ocean. And they’re looking for a support boat to accompany them. kacie.wallace@gmail.com, or visit http://www.supthemag.com/features/industry-news/yolo-board-team-rider-to-paddle-300-miles-for-plastic-pollution-awareness/
You may also reference this website: http://paddleforthenccoastline.weebly.com
HB Koerner

Red Square Marks Position of Columbia Marina

Long before the Columbia, NC City Docks were constructed, there was a private marina on the Scuppernong River, just downstream of the City Hall, known as Columbia Marina. This facility was, for many years, owned by a local attorney, but was then allowed to languish for quite some time before being purchased in February of 2012 by Captain Tom Clancy (no, not the “Tom Clancy” of “The Hunt for Red October” fame – we asked).
Since that time, as you will read below, this facility has gone through a MAJOR renovation. And while there is currently only one transient wet slip available, Columbia Marina is now a GREAT spot to keep your vessel on a long term basis.
Besides the new docks and dock house services (see below), all of downtown Columbia, featuring several restaurants, a visitor’s center, and a hardware store, is within easy walking distance. In short, what more could you ask of a small town marina facility.
And, lest we forget, Columbia Marina is our newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
So, whether you are just visiting Columbia and the Scuppernong River, or looking for long term dockage, please give Columbia Marina your most serious consideration. Tell Captain Clancy we sent you!

Columbia Marina

In February 2012 Tom Clancy purchased the Columbia Marina in Columbia, North Carolina. During the following year, the marina went through extensive renovations. The dock house was rebuilt with a new bathroom and shower, featuring an antique claw foot bathtub. The dock house also boasts a laundry and kitchen facility with microwave oven, coffee maker and refrigerator for boaters to use. In addition to the dock house there is a gazebo with a gas grill for boaters to use as well. All the bulkheads and slips were rebuilt with new water and electrical service. There are ten boat slips with 30 amp service and 1 transient slip with 50 amp service. The Columbia Marina is located in quaint downtown Columbia on the water front within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants in town. For more information please contact Tom Clancy 919-495-1028.

Columbia Marina

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

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

The narrow (compared to other Albemarle Sound rivers) but deep Roanoke River, is the southwesternmost of the nine rivers which feed into Albemarle Sound. In years past, cruising upstream to the community of Plymouth, NC, was frustrating for those looking to find wet slip dockage. There were some wet slips along the city waterfront, but they were forgettable, to say the least. ALL THAT HAS NOW CHANGED IN A BIG WAY FOR THE BETTER!
In late May, 2013, we received the brief report from Captain Jean Thomason below, informing one and all that Plymouth had invested in new docks for visiting cruisers, which were now open, and ready to accept visitors. We requested more information from the cruising community, and this appeal resulted in the second note below authored by Captains Danny and Jan.
Well, clearly there were/are BIG changes afoot in this small community, particularly in regards to their welcoming attitude towards, and services for, visiting cruisers. So, we got on the telephone and had an extensive conversation with Mike Wright, Plymouth’s General Services Director.
The result of all this up close and personal research is very happy news indeed. The town of Plymouth now boasts all-new, fixed, concrete decked wet slips, featuring fresh water and 30-50 amp power hookups, in a facility known as Plymouth Landing Marina. Some slips have 30 amp service and others feature 50 amp hookups. The wet slips designed for larger craft have depths of 12 to 14 feet, while some of the smaller berths have 4.5 to 6 feet of waters. And, we were able to confirm the report from Danny and Jan, that visiting cruisers can enjoy ten day’s free dockage at these fresh city piers, including power and water connections.
The dockage basin lies under the watchful eye of a reproduction of the Roanoke River screw-pile lighthouse. The eye catching feature adds considerably to the visual appeal of this city facility.
Shoreside, mariners will discover climate controlled showers, and a laundromat. Waste pump-out service is available for a very reasonable $5,00. There are two restaurants within walking distance, one of which is open for breakfast. There are also several museums in downtown Plymouth which are well worth your attention.
It’s a hefty 1+ mile walk to Highway 64, where you will find a supermarket and chain drugstore. Those cruising with bicycles will find this an easy trip.
CLEARLY, with all these new facilities, cruisers now have a new, prime destination just off Albemarle Sound. Please help spread the word about Plymouth’s new welcome and new services for visting cruisers.

New Plymouth, NC City Docks and Reproduction Roanoke River Lighthouse

Because our marina (Cypress Cove, formerly IYC) is at Columbia, we often cruise west on Albemarle Sound. Plymouth on the Roanoke River has just opened new town docks. We hear they are nice and free. Plymouth has shops, a museum (with replica of the Abemarle, a Confederate ironclad) and a lighthouse in the historic part of town along the waterfront.
Jean Thomason

I would like to tell everyone about the new town docks in Plymouth NC. Very nice slips (10 slips ) with power and water at no charge. They have very nice rest rooms and showers with a washer and dryer. There is also a pump out with just a 5.00 charge.
We stayed there in April and was very pleased. Oyster Bar short walk away was great. Breakfast at Stella’s down the street was very good. There was also three Museums in easy walking distance.
The east end where the larger slips are the water 12 to 14 feet and the west end on the T we marked 4.5 feet. These slips are not where the old slips are. These are at the west end of town in front of the Light House. Very nice.
Danny and Jan on the Mosey

Plymouth is a great town to visit for it’s Civil War history and all the good things mentioned here. My great grandfather served with the Union army and became a prisoner of war when the town was retaken.
However, there is a charted fixed bridge of 50′ vertical clearance between the town and Albemarle Sound that will keep most sailboats from visiting. We have anchored just before the bridge and used our dinghy. I think we were lucky to not hit a snag with the anchor since the Roanoke River is dense with cypress on both sides.
Harry Burns
S/V Two for the Roads

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

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Whitaker Creek - Click for Chartview

Deaton’s Yacht Service is one of two repair yards located on Whittaker Creek, immediately east of Oriental Harbor. The Whittaker Creek entrance channel is well marked.

I hauled out there this spring for the first time, they did great work. I’ve always done all the work myself but back problems and work constraints forced me to hire it out this time. They were very accommodating; I live 400 miles from the coast and they just handled it. They run a professional outfit, I highly recommend them.
Chase

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