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Reminder: Camp Lejeune Firing Exercises May Delay AICW Navigation, Statute Miles 235-240

April 23, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Onslow Beach – Click for Chartview

Notification of these firing exercises appear regularly in the weekly Local Notice to Mariners. Note Line 5 in bold. If this is your first time through the Camp Lejeune area, you may be unaware of the possible delays. Normally, if firing is underway, you will be stopped by very courteous, but armed, Marines aboard small vessels, Range Control Boats. SSECN attempts to post all announced dates of closure. We hope you aren’t delayed, but, if so, log it as another of the many wonderful experiences of traveling the ICW!

NC – NEW RIVER – FIRING EXERCISES
1. The Commanding General, Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune (MCIE-MCB CamLej), North Carolina, has advised that the area in the Atlantic Ocean between a point approximately 4.5 miles east of Bogue Inlet to a point approximately 10 miles southwest of New River Inlet, North Carolina, within the existing danger zone (depicted as 334.440) as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11543, will be hazardous to navigation because of field firing exercises during the periods and times stated below. Firing will be up to 15 nautical miles seaward. Vessels are urged to avoid the above area during the periods stated except for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, where mariners traveling through this area can expect a delay of about one to four hours during the below times. Range Control Boats, MCIE-MCB CamLej North Carolina monitor Channel 16 VHF-FM (156.8 MHz) and the working Channel 82 VHF-FM (161.725 MHz). Range Control can be reached by phone at 910-451-3064 or 4449.
2. The restricted areas in the Atlantic Ocean East of the New River Inlet as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11543, will be closed to navigation because of firing exercises during the following periods:
Atlantic Coast Sector Live Fire Operations
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm Daily (USS Ship-Naval Gunfire)
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm Daily (Stinger Missiles and ranges)
Atlantic Coast Sector Non-Live fire operations
12:01 a.m. to Midnight Daily (USS Ship-Maneuvering)
3. The restricted areas in the New River, as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11542, that WILL be closed to navigation because of Stone Bay Rifle Range firing exercises during the following periods:
Stone Creek Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
Stone Bay Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
West of the 77 (deg) 26(min) longitude line.
The restricted areas that MAY be closed to navigation because of firing exercises during the following periods:
Traps Bay Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
Courthouse Bay Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
Stone Bay Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
East of the 77 (deg) 26 (min) longitude line.
Grey Point Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily
Farnell Bay Sector Sunrise to Sunset – daily
Morgans Bay Sector Sunrise to Sunset – daily
Jacksonville Sector Sunrise to Sunset – daily
4. The Target Bombing Area N1/BT-3 Impact Area in the Atlantic Ocean East of the New River Inlet as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11543, may be closed to navigation because of firing exercises during the following periods:
N1/BT-3 Live Fire Operations:
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm Daily (USS Ship-Naval Gunfire)
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm Daily (Stinger Missile and ranges)
N1/BT-3 Non-Live Fire Operations:
12:01 a.m. to Midnight Daily (USS Ship-Maneuvering)
5. Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Inland Waters in the Browns Island Inlet area between Bear Creek and Onslow Beach, may be closed for firing exercises during the following periods:
Live Fire Operations:
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm Daily (USS Ship-Naval Gunfire)
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 pm Daily (Ranges)
Non-Live Fire Operations:
12:01 a.m. to Midnight Daily (Boat-Maneuvering)
6. Ship operations consisting of landing craft, amphibious vehicles, and helicopters may be conducted in the Onslow Beach operating area and all sectors of New River from 12:01 a.m. to Midnight – daily. Range Control Boats, MCIE-MCB CamLej North Carolina monitor Channel 16 VHF-FM (156.8 MHz) and the working Channel 82 VHF-FM (161.725 MHz). Range Control can be reached by phone at 910-451-3064 or 4449. LNM: 16/14

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Bridge Directory Listing For Onslow Beach Bridge

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Onslow Beach Bridge
A Visit to Big Trout Marina, Engelhard, NC – Western Shores of Pamlico Sound

April 22, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Big Trout Marina – Click for Chartview

Big Trout Marina, on the mainland shore of Pamlico Sound, guards the northerly banks of Far Creek and Engelhard harbor, a short distance west of flashing daybeacon #10.

Claiborne,
Attached are a few photos from the Neuse Sailing Association’s visit to Engelhard in 2013. In the photo with me in the foreground on my Catalina 34, Blue Wind II, you can see the masts of the sailboats behind me lined up down the marina’s dock. We filled every open slip and the full length of the wharf. The marina is a little sketchy for boats drawing more than five feet, and the channel is narrow coming ( sailboats are advised to “hug the greens”), but the marina owners were very hospitable. They cooked up a big dinner of fried fish, hush puppies and fixins just for our club. They knew we were coming, of course. On the down side, the showers leave much to be desired and some of the boats along the outer dock had some polarity lights coming on because of some power issues. But all in all, we had a great one-night stay.
Carl Crothers

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Big Trout Marina
Cruising Pamlico Sound, off the AICW in Eastern North Carolina

April 22, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Ocracoke, NC – Click for Chartview

Ocracoke Island, mentioned in this article from the AGLCA forum, is part of the North Carolina Outer Banks and lies on the eastern edge of Pamlico Sound. The National Park Service Docks lie on the northern shores of Ocracoke’s Silver Lake Harbor, just east of its entrance.

The “outside” route to the ICW is definitely through Pamlico Sound, not the ocean, where you have to go way around Cape Lookout then around Diamond Shoals.
The Pamlico Sound and adjacent waters are subject to very nasty conditions due to its very steep, close chop. You don’t see many boats out when strong winds are forecast with 2-3 foot waves… each wave is like running through a 3 foot brick wall. This is why they built the ICW. When calm, it is a fun cruise, especially if you stop and enjoy Ocracoke, a GREAT cruising destination, and Manteo, another fun little town and area to explore.
This has been our home cruising grounds for a few years now, and we used it a lot when doing our cruising up and down the entire east coast and adjacent waters.
George

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Ocracoke National Park Service Docks

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ocracoke National Park Service Docks
Don’t Miss “Oriental Nautical Wheelers” in Oriental, NC (Statute Mile 181)

April 22, 2014 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Over the weekend of April 19-20, 2014 I had the good fortune to attend the Oriental, NC Boat Show, and hold three seminars. During the show, I made the acquaintance of Bill and Camilla Wheeler and their unique business, “Oriental Nautical Wheelers.” I am very pleased to say that this firm is our newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
Oriental Nautical Wheelers is located in a historical Oriental homeplace, right on (411) Broad Street (252-249-0359), in downtown Oriental. It is within easy walking distance of SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Oriental Marina and Condos, and Oriental Harbor Marina, plus the town’s two free docks. From Whittaker Creek, you will need to have auto transportation available for a visit.
How to describe Oriental Nautical Wheelers? I could say that this unique establishment contains everything “coastal” from clothing, to shoes, to home furnishings and accessories, to Adirondack chairs. However, that would overlook the wine section, the voluminous selection of all types of gifts and personal items, not to mention the “revolutionary Keira Watering Cans.”
The selection and range of merchandise is staggering, in a very good way, you understand! EVERY cruiser visiting Oriental will want to be SURE to include a stroll to “Oriental Nautical Wheelers.” Don’t believe me? Well, then just follow the photo gallery link below!

Click Here To Visit Oriental Nautical Wheelers Web Site

Click Here To Visit Oriental Nautical Wheelers Photo Gallery
Latest on Dredging for Oregon Inlet, Pamlico Sound, Outer Banks, NC

April 22, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Oregon Inlet – Click for Chartview

Shoaling has been steadily increasing in the main channel of Oregon Inlet for several years (http://cruisersnet.net/?p=52021) prompting SSECN to recommend that cruisers with a draft over 3ft avoid the inlet and that only shallow draft vessels should attempt the inlet only with very exact local knowledge. Shoaling had become so severe that it was undermining the Herbert C. Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet resulting in the closure of the bridge to road traffic. See http://cruisersnet.net/?p=129461
Dredging of the inlet was last completed in December of 2013. and this most recent shoaling virtually closes the inlet to all but shallowest draft vessels.

HATTERAS ISLAND, N.C.
Oregon Inlet has shoaled to a depth of about 2 feet and is too shallow for dredging. The channel under the Herbert C. Bonner Bridge connecting Hatteras Island to the northern Outer Banks will be left to the elements, according to a news release from the Army Corps of Engineers. The side-casting dredge Merritt was unable to operate.
“I had not seen the conditions that bad before and that when we were able to move enough sand to float, the surrounding sand would fill the hole we had dug, immediately filling in behind us and trapping us in place,” Ray Bleam, a dredging master, said in a statement. There are no immediate plans to resume dredging, said Hank Heusinkveld, a Corps of Engineers spokesman. The Coast Guard will broadcast safety information every hour on VHF marine channel 16 to alert sailors to the conditions, according to the release.
Frank Wiegand

Claiborne, here is the latest on this, they have a dredge back on the scene. Sportfishing boats are reporting getting through. Would advise calling the CG, and/or folks at the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, or Pirates Cove for up to the minute news.
George
http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Media/NewsStories/tabid/10021/Article/23368/wilmington-districts-dredge-merrit-goes-back-to-oregon-inlet.aspx

Claiborne, I had no trouble getting through the inlet on Saturday, May 5th. There was a dredge working at the span when I came back in that afternoon. Charter and private sport fishing boats can make it through without too much problem. We have not given up on keeping the inlet open.
Dick Parker

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Oregon Inlet
Good Words for R. E. Mayo Seafood Docks, AICW Statute Mile 157

April 21, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

R E Mayo Seafood Docks – Click for Chartview

In June of 2012, I cruised to R. E. Mayo Seafood Docks, one of our newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS. It was a very interesting visit indeed, and I think I can say without any fear of telling an inaccuracy, this is one of the most unique facilities that has ever chosen to support our web site. R. E. Mayo Seafood Docks flanks the western shores of the “Hobucken Cut” portion of the North Carolina AICW, south of the Hobucken Bridge and north of marker #21.

We spent a night on the RE Mayo dock and found everything to be as described. There were three sailboats tied up that night along with the fishing vessels. As others have said, the electrical leaves a bit to be desired, but at 0.40 a foot, it’s fine! You’ll need plenty of fenders also. We purchased some delicious shrimp (it was frozen, shrink-wrapped). There is a very well stocked convenience store across the Hobucken bridge. My husband also said that the ships store at RE Mayo is also well stocked.
Kathrine Noel

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For R E Mayo Seafood Docks

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of R E Mayo Seafood Docks
More Information on Bridge Pointe Marina (New Bern, NC, on the Trent River)

April 21, 2014 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

We announced a few months ago, that SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Bridge Pointe Marina in New Bern, NC, had reopened after a year-long rebuilding project. I have twice undertaken a personal inspection of Bridge Pointe’s new reincarnation, and it can be stated with no fear of inaccuracy, that this is now a state-of-the-art facility. Below, we hear more from dockmaster, Jesse Schmucher, about his newly revamped marina.

Our new state-of-the-art marina includes 150 Brazilian hardwood [decked] floating deep water slips ranging from 30FT – 150FT, cable television, free wireless internet, metered electric and fresh water connections for each slip. Our newly redesigned and completely renovated boater’s lounge includes showers, restrooms, charcoal grills, laundry, and a comfortable air conditioned sitting area. Monthly dockage rates are $6.50 per slip foot, plus a $20 Pedestal Fee + Metered Electric (13 Cents per kilowatt). We will be offering a special rate for a limited time, so be sure to contact us today at (252)637-7372 or by email at bridgepointemarina@colwenhotels.com.

For more information on Bridge Pointe Marina, follow the links below:

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Bridge Pointe Marina
REMINDER: Northern Mouth of Alligator River, Problem Stretch, AICW Statute Mile 81

April 14, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

A reminder to everyone that the location of markers through this stretch does not coincide with older charts or with the Magenta line. Our oft repeated advice: follow the markers, not the Magenta line! Smaller buoys are often difficult to spot and require a reduction in speed and a sharp lookout!
For more comments on the area, see http://cruisersnet.net/?p=125911 and http://cruisersnet.net/?p=101600 and http://cruisersnet.net/?p=56971.

Temporary floating red buoy! Didn’t go aground but S/V ahead of us did! Slow and easy!
Adventure

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the North Mouth of Alligator River

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
Request for Information on National Park Service Docks in Ocracoke, Pamilco Sound, NC

April 9, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Silver Lake – Click for Chartview

The Ocracoke National Park Service Docks are on the northern shores of Silver Lake Harbor, just east of its entrance.

Would love to hear if anyone has stayed at the NPS dock in the past few months. We sailed to Ocracoke about a year ago and the NPS docks were covered in bird droppings and looked to be in disrepair. The fellow at the desk at the adjacent museum (or whatever that building is) wasn’t happy to be answering questions about it! So we just anchored that time, but would like more current information for an upcoming trip.
Kathrine Noel

I’m reporting in [from Ocracoke] that the NPS docks are closed and “under construction”. There is obvious construction on the sidewalks and there was a tiny sign saying the docks were closed. There is a new dingy dock that is very nice. We used it, though it’s behind the construction area, so it probably couldn’t be used during the work week. Had a delicious dinner at the Flying Melon. I did forget to say that the docks are supposed to be ready for service in May. We’ll see; I’m not confident!!
Headed to Belhaven tomorrow to wait out the yucky weather. Will post a review of that visit too!
Kathrine Noel

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Ocracoke National Park Service Docks

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ocracoke National Park Service Docks
Dismal Swamp Route Recommended, AICW Alternate Route

April 7, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Dismal Swamp Welcome Center – Click for Chartview

The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, is located on the east shore of the like-named Canal at Statute Mile 28.
The Dismal Swamp Canal State Park Bridge, with 0 ft vertical clearance, is a small, pedestrian foot bridge that crosses the canal just south of the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center. This span had malfunctioned, and could not be opened. However, this situation has been remedied and the Dismal Swamp Canal is now open to navigation.

These good comments about the Great Dismal Swamp Canal come from our friends at America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association’s forum.

Re: Dismal Swamp or other route:
The Great Dismal, by all means. Passed thru that way last July in our 30′ Trawler, draft 3.4 feet. A great way to prepare for the hustle & bustle you will encounter at mile Zero and further north. Teems with wildlife and is almost empty of people & waterfront homes. It is anything BUT, Dismal.
May you have fair winds and following seas,
Bill & Bonnie Sweeney
The Elissa II

We like the Great Dismal Swamp route so much, that unless the canal is closed, we always take the canal route. The stops at Elizabeth City free town docks, South Mills, the Welcome Center and the docks south of Deep Creek Lock, all free, make this a must do. The canal transit itself it beautiful. Here are a couple of our blog posts that might give you some details.
http://trawler-beach-house.blogspot.com/2013/07/elizabeth-city-north-carolina-harbor-of.html
http://trawler-beach-house.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-great-dismal-swamp-canal-and.html
Chuck Baier

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net 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
New (Second) Free Dock in Oriental, NC, Neuse River, AICW Statute Mile 181

April 3, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Click Here For a Full Sized ChartView Page

A phone call to TownDock.net confirmed the new free dock which is located just to the southwest of the fuel dock at Oriental Marina and Condos. The dock is c. 70ft in length and for now does not have amenities, although adding water, electric and a restroom, as well as more length is being discussed. SSECN is grateful to Skipper Valinoti for bringing this new facility to the attention of our readers, just in time for the Spring Migration!

Has anyone reported on the new, additional, free town dock?? It is located to the right of the Oriental Marina and is about 80 ft long with room for 4 cruising boats depending on length. Presently there are not any ammenities. However, it is planned to have heads and showers along with a pump out.
Joe Valinoti

Truly a shame that (south) Florida doesn’t treat cruisers the way places like Oriental do. Seems you almost have to go north out of FL to get that southern hospitality…
Wally Moran

The new dock is quite nice and solid looking. Only problem is that the south side of the dock is partially blocked due to the Lady Deborah, a large shrimper being docked on the next dock to the south. According to one of the locals, the Lady Deborah hasn’t moved from this spot in a quite a while.
If you don’t have too wide a beam you’d fit just fine, but it would be tight, not to mention if you have two boats on this side the one closer to shore would be blocked in.
All in all, well done Oriental. Free town docks like this should be the norm, and not the exception.
Rick Morrow

Stopped at the new pier the day after they finished it. Was the first Trawler to use it i was told. A very nice well built pier. The Rest. At the Marina there has great food and drink. Oriental is always a great stop free pier or no free pier.
The “Fire Dog” & Crew
Raymond W Smith

Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Oriental Marina and Condos

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Oriental Marina
North Carolina Mariners Museum Annex, Beaufort, NC Now Offering Transient Dockage, Near St. M. 201)

April 1, 2014 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

NC Mariners Museum Annex Docks – Beaufort, NC – Google Earth

The Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net just received an e-mail from former “Coastal Cruising” magazine contributor, Captain Brent Creelman, who now works with the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina. As you will read below, the museum annex, which lies at the intersection of the Gallants Channel and Town creek, north of the eventually to be replaced (with a high-rise) Grayden Paul bridge, near 34°43.669′N,76°40.054′W, is now offering transient dockage for visiting vessels. The transient rate is a VERY reasonable $1.00 per foot, per night!
While power and water connections are available, there are no other shoreside facilities, and it will be a hefty walk (or a very quick taxi ride) from this facility to the many delights and dining attractions in downtown Beaufort. Mariners should also be advised that to reach these docks, they must either navigate the Bulkhead Channel from Beaufort Inlet, and then pass through the restricted Grayden Paul Bridge, or run the somewhat iffy (but still very do-able), Russell Slue – Gallant Channel route from the AICW to a point just short of Town Creek.
Even with those mild disadvantages, many cruisers will be understandably enticed by the dockage rates featured at these docks. If interested, drop Captain Creelman an email, or give him a call!

Ahoy Fellow Mariners!
The Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort invites transient vessels and historically significant craft to visit and be our guests at the museum’s expansion site on Gallants Channel just north of downtown.
The facility has deep water wharfs running some 1,500’ and floating docks with 10 slips and a 100’ face dock.
The Friends of the Museum is offering a very reasonable short term dockage rate of just $1/foot per night, or $10/foot per month.
Water and power are available but there are no shore side facilities at this time. There is ample parking on site.
Located less than a mile from the AICW the site is well protected, has plenty of water depth, and is just a mile from Beaufort’s Front Street.
Brent Creelman
Director of Operations
Friends of the Museum
brent@maritimefriends.org
252-728-2762

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Mariner’s Wharf Annex Docks
Southport Marina, Zimmerman Marine and Carolina Yacht Care Combine to Offer Free Weather and Navigation Briefs During the Spring, 2014 Transient Season (St. M. 309)

March 31, 2014 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Now here is an absolutely wonderful idea and a genuinely invaluable service to the cruising community, courtesy of TWO SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS, Southport Marina, and Carolina Yacht Care. Late every afternoon from April 2 through June 15 (2014), join Skipper Hank Pomeranz, co-owner of Carolina Yacht Care, on the docks at Southport Marina for an informal discussion of upcoming weather events. Hank is a retired US Navy meteorologist, and you can bet his information will be extremely valuable, based on the most up to date National Weather Service information available.” I can’t think of a better way to spend a late afternoon while northward bound on the AICW than exchanging information with Hank and fellow cruisers.

Skipper Pomeranz will also be covering AICW navigational issues, using both Local Notice to Mariners, and information from the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net. We promise to keep Hank well supplied with the latest Waterway information, courtesy of both our own research and data submitted by your fellow cruiser!
Who knows, I may even pop down to Southport from time to time and participate in these sessions. Hope to see you there!!!!!

Headed north through Southport, NC this spring? The two things we hear most in discussions amongst cruisers are concerns for coastal weather, winds and seas and navigation issues on the ICW. Well Southport Marina, in historic Southport NC, decided to do something about it.
Teaming with Carolina Yacht Care (cYc) and Zimmerman Marine, Southport Marina invites you to join them during the Spring 2014 transient season for daily “Weather and Navigation Briefs on the Dock” – a free, one of a kind service geared towards transiting boaters. These informal discussions are an opportunity for you to join fellow cruisers at the end of the day for a presentation and interactive discussion on weather and navigation issues for the next leg of your journey.
Retired US Navy meteorologist, cruising sailor and owner of Carolina Yacht Care – Hank Pomeranz, will host the daily discussions. Hank will review the current National Weather Service advisories, watches and warnings, analyses and forecast charts and discuss the resultant forecasts for winds and seas, precipitation, temperatures, fog and severe weather potential for the Carolina coast north of Southport.
On the ICW navigation side, Hank will draw from the US Army Corps of Engineers surveys, Notices to Mariners, recent fellow cruiser postings in cooperation with Salty Southeast Cruiser’s Net and local knowledge.
And, you won’t have to memorize everything presented. They’ll have handouts you can take back to your boat and review at your leisure.
Briefings will be held daily from 2 April 2014 through 15 June 2014 at the marina docks.
Daily “Weather and Navigation Briefs at the Dock”: yet another great reason to stop and stay with us at Southport Marina.
Hank Whitley, CMM
Marina Manager

And, here are some additional comments, courtesy of Skipper Pomeranz:

With regards to the briefs, the Navigation portion draws information from several sources – SSECN, USCG, USACE, cruiser comments, etc… “We” (meaning those of us who are performing services to our cruising brethren) have this unique opportunity to be standing in front of some of them daily and talking specific navigation issues.
I want to take advantage of this one on one and make a strong point that, as our fellow cruisers continue their journeys, their feedback into the knowledge base is critical in helping those who follow. They will leave here with a chart snippet and description from SSECN relevant to known or suspected problem areas. They will also have the latest USACE survey image for those areas.
Armed with that info, we will ask them to “pay it forward” and send an email describing their passage through the worrisome areas…an email to me, so that I can immediately update the daily brief and an email to SSECN, so you can have it for the biweekly Alerts and your website.
I will emphasize that reports from cruisers need to feature specific info…Date, tide level, draft, etc. Nothing is more frustrating than reading through comments without that info.
Hank Pomeranz

Hank Pomeranz has worked with us since we brought our Bristol 47.7 Frances to Southport from Maine in November 2013. He has proven to be highly conscientious and reliable with yacht services and has gone the extra mile for us at every turn. Hank is a real asset to local mariners. Having been caught by afternoon weather in small boats around front and in the river since 1969 – we will look forward to his information and thoughts on the weather and sailing and ICW conditions.
Van and Emily Beck

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Southport Marina
Good Words for Edenton, NC – off the AICW on Western Albemarle Sound

March 29, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Click Charlet Above To Open Chart View Page Centered on Edenton, NC

Edenton, NC, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, holds a special place in my own heart. During my younger days, this historic community often served as a “base of operations” as my Father and I searched the waters of all the nearby rivers for that elusive quarry known as the largemouth bass. If Edenton actually sat along the track of the AICW, it would be as popular as Beaufort.

Another 2 day dock courtesy city in North Carolia is Edenton. Another beautiful stop.
Alan

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor (City Docks)
Elizabeth City, NC’s Mariners Wharf City Docks Adds New Bathroom and Shower Building (St. M. 50.5, Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate Route)

March 21, 2014 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Entrance Into New Elizabeth City Showers

We are very pleased to report that SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Elizabeth City, NC has just opened a new bathroom and shower facility immediately adjacent to the free (for 48 hours) Mariner’s Wharf city docks. What a GREAT addition to what is already one of the most cruiser friendly communities to be found ANYWHERE!

New Restroom and Shower Facilities Now Open in Elizabeth City
Recreational boaters who cruise into Elizabeth City, N.C., now have a place to freshen up and take a hot shower. Just in time for the spring travel season, new heated restroom and shower facilities have just opened in the Mariners’ Wharf Building at Mariners’ Wharf.
Just steps from the docks, the new facility includes separate men’s and women’s restrooms, one large shower room with a commode and sink, as well as a second shower room that is accessible for people with disabilities. The restrooms are free and open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. There is a $5 cash fee to use the showers, payable at either the Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitors Bureau office or the Elizabeth City Downtown, Inc. office. Both offices are closed on Saturday and Sunday.
“We take our city’s reputation as the “Harbor of Hospitality®” seriously, and we hope our boating visitors enjoy these new amenities,” said Charlotte Underwood, director of the Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.
Offering free 48-hour dockage for recreational boaters, Elizabeth City is located in Northeastern North Carolina on the Intracoastal Waterway, halfway between Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks. For additional information, call Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-866-ECity-4U (1-866-324-8948) or visit DiscoverElizabethCity.com. For up-to-the-minute info on happenings and events visit ElizabethCityHASIt.com

What a great city! I’ve been visiting by boat since back in the day when the original Rose Buddies greeted everyone at the docks, and I go out of my way to return the favor by purchasing groceries, eating out, and patronizing other local businesses. One of my favorite ICW stops and a great reason to take the Dismal Swamp route.
John Kettlewell

AMEN! Kudos to Elizabeth City!
Another 2 day dock courtesy city in North Carolia is Edenton. Another beautiful stop.
Alan

Of course Alan is speaking of another SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Edenton Harbor City Docks, off the AICW on Western Albemarle Sound. For a complete report on Edenton, go to http://cruisersnet.net/?p=126199

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

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

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor (City Docks)
Dredging Underway at AICW/Shallotte Inlet Intersection, Statute Mile 330

March 18, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

AICW/Shallotte Inlet Intersection – Click for Chartview

The much needed dredging of this AICW Problem Stretch is certainly welcome news, especially with the completion date occurring before the heart of the Spring, 2014 transient season.

NC – MYRTLE GROVE TO LITTLE RIVER – CAPE FEAR RIVER TO LITTLE RIVER/AICW – SHALLOTTE INLET CROSSING
The Dredge WILKO will be conducting dredging operations in the AICW at the Shallotte Inlet Crossing from 20 March until 13 April, 2014. The dredge and assisting vessels MISS LEANNE and PROUD MARY will monitor VHF-FM channels 13, 16 and 78. A Floating rubber and submerged polyethylene pipeline associated with dredging operation will traverse southwesterly and upland along west shoreline of Shallotte Inlet to the Ocean Isle Fill Placement Area near Shallotte Blvd. Pipeline, vessels and established crossings will be visibly lighted and marked with floating buoys
in accordance with Coast Guard regulations. Mariners are urged to use extreme caution in the area, transit at their slowest safe speed to minimize wake, and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made with dredge plant. Chart: 11534 LNM: 11/14

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Shalotte Inlet Intersection

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
More thoughts on New NC Registration Fees

March 1, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Captain Kettlewell is responding to a lengthy discussion from last fall about NC’s attempt to require documented vessels to obtain NC state registration after 90 days in their waters. See http://cruisersnet.net/?p=123607 If you have any recent information about the new fees or answers to Captain Kettlewell’s questions, let us hear from you.

Has the NC registration fee come to pass and is it in force? Just curious, how much do the “ad valorem property taxes” amount to in reality for say a boat with a market value of $50,000? I realize the rates and assessments are different in different counties and towns, but I have never been able to get a straight answer as to how much average boaters pay in the end. Is there a source for that information by county? That could be a factor for people wishing to keep their boats in NC. I know that SC property taxes are quite hefty on boats.
John Kettlewell
Good Words for Topsail Channel/Island Anchorage, near AICW Statute Mile 265

February 24, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Topsail Island Channel – Click for Chartview

Topsail Channel Anchorage lies northwest of the charted marsh island southwest of the Topsail Channel’s unlighted daybeacon #14.

Just off the ICW with an easy entrance and exit. We found 10 foot of water at one hour before high tide. As you enter stay pretty close to the markers until you get up to the docks, at that point favor the dock side. We anchored just south of the charted shoal between the marker and the line of crab pots to the west. There is some high speed traffic past this point, but that stops when the sun goes down. You can hear the ocean surf. 4 bars on Verizon Air Card. If you are northbound, this is a good place to stay and than catch the Surf City Bridge opening, 3 miles north, the next morning.
Dave Boxmeyer

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Topsail Island
Praise for Bridge Pointe Marina, off the AICW, On the Trent/Neuse River, New Bern, NC

February 22, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Bridge Pointe Marina – Click for Chartview

Bridge Pointe Marina, a new SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, flanks the southern banks of the Trent River (off the Neuse River), opposite the downtown New Bern, NC waterfront. This fine facility re-opened last Fall after more than a year of rebuilding their floating dock system which sustained major damage in hurricane Irene in August of 2012. As you can see from the comments from Skipper Fay and Mike, the rebuilding has been a big success!

Bridgepoint is a gem. Jessie the dockmaster is outstanding as is the staff at the hotel. Very helpful. Unless you can caught a ride with the “crowd at dock” taxis’ do not seem to be regulated very well, as you never know how to prepare for charges as they are private and not metered. New Bern lacks dinghy docks which is sad for the downtown merchants, walk or bike across the bridge. Beautiful town.
Fay and Mike

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

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Bridge Pointe Marina
Shoaling Reported in Hatteras Inlet Channel, Pamlico Sound, NC

February 12, 2014 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Hatteras Inlet – Click for Chartview

Hatteras Inlet lies well off the Waterway, on the eastern edge of Pamlico Sound. This narrow, unstable seaward passage cuts the southern reaches of Hatteras Island and the northern strands of Ocracoke Island. We have had Navigation Alerts posted in this inlet for some time (http://cruisersnet.net/?p=76962 and http://cruisersnet.net/?p=76962) and, despite recent dredging (http://cruisersnet.net/?p=123320), we still advise that no one attempt to make use of this inlet channel without very specific local knowledge!

NC – CAPE HATTERAS – HATTERAS INLET – SHOALING
Shoaling to a depth of 2.0 feet MLW has been reported between Hatteras Inlet Buoy 2 (LLNR 28645) and Hatteras Inlet Buoy 4 (LLNR 28650). Chart: 11555. LNM: 06/14

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Hatteras Inlet