SC – 4 – Belle Isle to Sullivans Island | Cruisers' Net

AICW Problem Stretch Shoaling Confirmed Near McClellanville, SC, Statute Mile 434

March 4, 2013 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Due to persistent shoaling, in early 2011 we designated the Waterway south of McClellanville to Awendaw Creek, as an “ICW Problem Stretch.” As before, we recommend passage at mid or high tide. Capt. Schmidt confirms that shoaling still persists in this area.

As you know, there are problems here.
Today, Jan. 11 starting at mile 430, beacon 35 depth drops to as low as 4 feet and is consistently 5 feet. Found two boats aground at beacon 40. It was 1330, dead low tide, new moon with prediction of -0.7 feet. By beacon 42 it was back to the normal 9-10 feet.
Your advice to pass at mid to high rising tide is correct, but time and mother nature put us there at the wrong time. But we made it. I draw 3′-9″ so I slowly passed the grounded vessels.
Ray Schmidt

Went thru this area on January 6 2013 and saw 8.1′ at mid-tide. Be cautious in this area.
Captains Gregory and Mary Yount

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Waterway south of McClellanville to Awendaw Creek

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
Report on Depths in SC Waterway, AICW Statute Miles 420 – 455

January 11, 2013 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Extreme tidal ranges have been the norm for the last year, giving not only lower, but also higher, than charted depths. Seeing highs and lows a foot or more off the charted numbers has been common. Navigating the constantly changing depths in the Waterway channels is part of the challenge (fun?) of staying off the bottom, even in normal depth conditions. Our advice has always been: follow the markers and do not depend entirely on the magenta line on your chart or chartplotter.

Cruising News:
Hi – wanted to report general shoaling in the stretch from just south of the South Santee River and extending down to Price Creek, past marker 80. We just ran it at low water, and did not see 9′ anywhere in that entire stretch; the average depth was 7.5 to 8′, and running a narrow zigzag centered on the channel showed the deepest water to be in the center and shoaling (mostly) slowly toward the edges. The variation in depth is small, with no bars that I saw. Extreme caution is recommended.
Also note that it doesn’t get a whole lot better after Price Creek: the depths come up very slowly, until suddenly going completely schizophrenic just past Dewees Island: up to 35′ as you cross the rivers and the inlets, instantly dropping to 7′ or 8′ as you come up on the other side (silting in.)
Ben
IMPORTANT – Serious Shoaling on Jeremy Creek – McClellanville, SC (Statute Mile 430)

December 28, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Our contact at the US Army Corps of Engineers has just forwarded copies of an official USACOE survey of depths on Jeremy Creek taken 11/19/12. Take a look at the first three lines of soundings north of the stream’s mouth, in the enlargement of the survey below. You will quickly see why we have designated this posting as “Important” and have set an SSECN Navigation Alert for these waters.
All depths shown on this survey are corrected for Mean Low Water. So, a quick glance will show you that, at low tide, you might be cruising through as little as 2.0 to 2.6 feet depths, RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CHANNEL! Fortunately, channel depths improve farther upstream.
However, until and if dredging can be accomplished on the southern portion of Jeremy Creek, entrance and exit at times near low water will be relegated strictly to shallow draft vessels!
Now, why is this such a big deal. Well, Jeremy Creek provides the only water access to the charming village of McClellanville, South Carolina, and its recently improved marina, Leland Oil Company. The shoal depths at the entrance to Jeremy Creek are going to be a real obstacle to visiting both this marina and the adjoining community.
Fortunately, there is a 5.5 to 6 foot tidal range in this region, so most cruising craft will be able to navigate southern Jeremy Creek near the time of high tide. Of course, having to time your travel around the tides can be a major inconvenience to cruisers.
A telephone conversation with the dockmaster at Leland Marine on 12/28/12 confirmed the surveyed shallow depths, and we were told that deeper draft boats are indeed having to play the tides when entering and leaving. On the other hand, the dockmaster said he had accommodated several boats this fall season with 5-foot draft, but clearly, these vessels did not arrive or leave at low water.
The dockmaster went on to say that everyone in McClellanville is hoping that the USACOE will dredge Jeremy Creek this year, but he has not heard of any definite plans to do so. Let’s hope this dredging happens soon!
In the meantime, ALL mariners bent on a visit to McClellanville and/or Leland Oil Company, NEED TO TAKE THIS INFORMATION INTO ACCOUNT!

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at the southern section of Jeremy Creek
Official Army Corps of Engineers Survey (as of November, 2012) of AICW Problem Stretch North of Charleston SC Harbor (near St. M. 460)

November 14, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

We are pleased and honored to report that the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net has dedicated friends at the various Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters who work hard to keep the cruising community informed about newly developing problems on the AICW. And, that is just what Captain Mike Verdolini has done by forwarding the official November, 2012 AICW depth survey pictured below.
Take a gander at the NOAA chartlet to the right, and you will quickly see that the survey in question centers on the Waterway, north of Charleston Harbor and the Ben Sawyer Bridge, between Inlet Creek’s northeastern mouth and Swinton Creek.
Take a look at the image below, and study the recorded, MLLW corrected soundings along the AICW’s southern/southeastern flank, between Inlet Creek’s northeastern mouth and Swinton Creek. Look at those 0.8, 1.1 and 2.5 foot (etc.) soundings. Think the Waterway may have a shoaling problem here?
Also, notice that this thin water along the AICW’s southern flank continues to a point well east and northeast of marker #117A!
For at least a year now, we have had these water designated as an SSECN Navigation Alert. Now, however, with this official USACOE information in hand, we are going to upgrade the difficulty of these waters to an “AICW Problem Stretch.”
ALL cruisers should proceed with the greatest caution through this section of the Waterway, preferably at mid to high tide, and favor the northern side of the channel somewhat.
WE ARE SEEKING INPUT FROM THE CRUISING COMMUNITY CONCERNING THIS NEW AICW PROBLEM STRETCH! If you have traversed these waters recently, PLEASE send us your soundings and impressions. You can simply follow the “Click Here to Submit Cruising News” button/link found on the upper right of this and all (except Chart View) SSECN pages, or send your data directly to CruiserNet@triad.twcbc.com.
TAKE CARE!

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW North of Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms Bridge

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
More Good Words for Awendaw Creek Anchorage, AICW Statute Miles 436

October 5, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Awendaw Creek - Click for Chartview

Located halfway between Georgetown and Charleston, SC, Awendaw Creek has been successfully accessed for anchoring by several recent cruisers. On the south side of the Waterway, Awendaw Creek is best approached through its northern entrance which is due south of marker #48 and just west of marker #47 in Harbor River.

Anchored here on 10/1/2012-all positive comments on this anchorage are true. Went in at 1 hour before low tide and never had less than 8′ and mostly double digits in the anchorage. `No-seeum’s’ came out at sundown but an `Off’ coil kept them to a minimum.
Capt. Pat Carter

Oct 10 we anchored at Awendaw Creek turned the corner in charted 13 feet but saw 16 feet, surprisingly very quiet night even though it appears to be wide open.
Doug Cordello

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Awendaw Creek

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Awendaw Creek
More AICW Shoaling Reported Near Isle of Palms, (Statute Mile 460)

July 22, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

From earlier reports and as Captain Bell confirms, the water gets thin between AICW markers #111 and #119, north of the Waterway’s entrance into Charleston Harbor. While not yet designated an SSECN Problem Stretch, we have established a Navigation Alert for these waters and caution should be exercised through the AICW channel past the Isle of Palms.

Three days ago we had to wait for one hour past low water, which was `0’³ tide, to pass between 117A and 119. Our sailboat has a five foot draft. We made two slow attempts to pass but ran aground mid channel and west or land side of mid channel. NOTE: while we waited for an hour past low tide we made an attempt to bypass the low spot by going around the Atlantic side loop. The chart shows deep water, which there is until you are 100 yards from 119, then there is a shoal that is less than four feet. So back to 117A you go.
David Bell

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW North of Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms Bridge

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
Good News from Leland Oil Co. Marina – McClellanville, SC (St. M. 430) – Captains Mark and Diana Report

July 17, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Leland Oil Co. Marina

Here’s another excellent report from our strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, owners and originator of On The Water Chart Guides. This article concerns Leland Oil Company Marina, located on the waters of Jeremy Creek at McClellanville, SC. This facility lies about half-way between Winyah Bay and Charleston Harbor.
As has been previously reported here on the Cruisers’ Net, and made clear once again below by Captains Diana and Mark, McClellanville Oil Co. Marina may just be “the” most improved facility in the SC Low Country. Even so, no-one will ever mistake this place for Pier 66, or Morehead City Yacht Basin, BUT with things as they now stand, we can recommend a stop here for those who want to experience a last, little piece of South Carolina Low Country, small town, charm!

T. W. Graham & Co. Seafood Restaurant

Hi Claiborne,
Diana and I were through McClellanville last month and thought you’d like an update on what Dwayne’s up to at Leland Oil.
ICW veterans have long known about the shrimp boat docks at McClellanville, SC (STM 430.0).
In the past, you’d trade beer to raft up for the night In the tiny harbor of Jeremy Creek. But, of course, you’d have to stay up with the shrimpers to drink the beer ‘¦ and then untangle your boat at oh-dark-thirty so they could get off to work and you could catch a few hours of sleep before moving on.
Now there is a more “civilized” alternative. Last year, Dwayne Merritt at Leland Oil put in floating docks to provide a place for recreational boats to tie up for the night, allowing them to keep their beer … and get some sleep.
We recently stayed at Leland Oil and saw first-hand the new floating docks. Very nice! And Dwayne continues to make this facility more welcoming to cruising sail and power boats.
McClellanville is worth a saunter, a quiet village of well-kept houses clustered on a few blocks near the shrimp docks. With its small streets, lack of traffic, and friendly residents, walking the town feels like going back a few decades.
There is one stop in town, the local seafood restaurant, T.W. Graham. In true small-town style, it has abbreviated hours but is worth the wait. FRESH-FRESH seafood!
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Co. Marina

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Leland Oil Co. Marina
www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
ARGUS Confirms Shoaling on AICW Problem Stretch – AICW Channel South of McClellanville, SC to Awendaw Creek (St. M. 430 to 435)

July 9, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Perhaps the #1 advantage of being Survice Enginnering’s ARGUS Project’s strategic web partner, is that the SSECN is the FIRST to receive shallow water updates from the various ARGUS volunteer research vessels traveling Southeastern USA coastal waters. And, that’s just what’s happened here!

Now, it isn’t exactly a surprise that the ARGUS equipment aboard M/V Elixir has just reported finding less than optimum depths along the path of the AICW south of McClellanville, South Carolina. After all, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net declared these waters as an “AICW Problem Stretch” several years ago! However, it’s certainly nice for ARGUS to verify this data, and even to pin-point the shallowest spots!

Take a look at the first graphic below, and note the color coded ARGUS “solution sets” along the track of the AICW immediately southwest of marker #37. This stretch of the AICW lies just southwest of Jeremy Creek and McClellanville. As you can see, Elixir discovered some 6-foot MLW depths right along the mid-width of the AICW channel. Still enough for most vessels, but definitely getting on the thin side:

And, then we have a second set of ARGUS soundings (“solution sets”) depicted in the graphic below, just a small hop farther to the southwest (northeast of marker #40). Again, LOTS of 6-foot MLW depths noted here:

PLEASE NOTE that these depths (“solution sets”) are so NEW, they are NOT yet depicted on the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net Chart View “ARGUS Layer.” That will be corrected on our next update from Survice Engineering, due to be received soon. However, we thought this data was so interesting, it was worth calling to the attention of the cruising community even before this update is received and processed!

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW Channel South of McClellanville, SC to Awendaw Creek

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
Continued Praise for Leland Oil Company, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

May 19, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

We understand from many sources that Leland Oil Company Marina, under a new owner, is making big improvements, including new floating docks, to this very affordable facility – long a source of good fuel prices. We hear, too, that the owner will take time to drive you to nearby stores. Also note that if you have never visited the backwater village of McClellanville, SC, you owe it to yourself to stop here and at least take in the community. It’s like stepping into a time machine that transports you to what most of the Low Country must have looked like 50 years ago. Try it, you might just like it!

We haven’t been there since Leland Oil Company began the renovation. Jeremy Creek was being dredged during our last visit, and we were extremely happy with the rumor
that there was a possibility of a dock in progress. We own six acres on Drayton Lane, immediately across from ‘˜Gussie’s’ house, and the church which is on the grounds of the slave cemetery. (This church was turned on its foundation during Hurricane Hugo in 1989) McClellanville is on the Historic Registry for those who may not be aware; and the two restaurants in our small little town can compete with any 5 Star restaurant around. Plus, the seating is a lot more comfortable.
We are full-time cruisers and are proud of McClellanville for its citizens caring enough to progress slowly without spoiling its heritage. Since cruisers and McClellanville share a lot in common, we look forward to taking our sv Gypsysails into Jeremy Creek with the first opportunity that prevails.
Thank you Leland Oil Company, we will be sure to share with as many cruisers as we can, because they appreciate communities like ours.
Ginger & Maury Thompson

We stayed at Leland Oil in McClellanville on 16th May 2012 on our 50′ Benetau with a 6′ draft. The entrance to the the creek was a little shallow but no real problem (a foot above low). At the dock during a normal low tide we still had 6’³ on the bottom. Plenty of space on the new dock easy tie up and departure. The fishing boats all respected the no wake which made for a very pleasant quiet nights sleep, we will visit again.
Andrew

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Company

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Entrance to McClellanville Channel
Photos of Leland Oil Company’s New Floating Docks (McClellanville, South Carolina – AICW, Statute Mile 430)

May 15, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

Back in April (2012), we published several reports from fellow cruisers detailing the very welcome new, floating docks at McClellanville, South Carolina’s Leland Oil Company (see /?p=81422 and /?p=85795). I had always wanted to recommend stopping in McClellanville, as this idyllic village is a real throwback to yesteryear, with its moss shrouded lanes, and quaint homes that look as if they just stepped out of the early 1900’s. However, until these new docks were added, the roughness of Leland Oil Company’s dockage facilities were a real trade-off against the community’s other charms. Now, while no-one will ever mistake this facility for Fort Lauderdale’s “Pier 66,” we can recommend a stop here!
Just a few minutes ago, the dockmaster at Leland Oil Company transmitted a series of photos detailing his new docks, You can see one to the right. Follow the photo gallery link below to check out the rest!
More Praise for Leland Oil Company Now Open and New Docks Ready for Cruisers, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

May 2, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

We understand from other contributors that Leland Oil Company Marina, under a new owner, is steadily making improvements to this very affordable facility and long a source of good fuel prices. We hear, too, that the owner will take time to drive you to nearby stores. Also note that if you have never visited the backwater village of McClellanville, SC, you owe it to yourself to stop here and at least take in the community. It’s like stepping into a time machine that transports you to what most of the Low Country must have looked like 50 years ago. Try it, you might just like it!

Stayed here 4-30. Great new floating docks as advertised. Daune greeted us at the dock and did a good job tying up the boat. We had a wonderful afternoon biking thru the town. Saw a 1000+ year old oak tree. The village museum is only open Thurs Fri and Sat. We will have to see it next time.
Ron & Audrey aboard Lucky Girl

Stayed overnight on Sunday 4/29. Great new floating dock. Full up that night, 7 boats. Great place between Georgetown and Charleston. Amenities are spartan, should be upgraded on ground level. Met by Dockmaster Duane to tie up. Highly recommended.
Has Royer

Stopped in last fall. nice people-short walk into small town ‘˜down home’ cooking in local restaurant.
JiM Lady Lady

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Company

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Entrance to McClellanville Channel
Shallow Water at Marker #43, South of McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 434.2

April 20, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Due to persistent shoaling, in early 2011 we designated the Waterway south of McClellanville to Awendaw Creek, as an “ACW Problem Stretch.” As before, we recommend passage at mid or high tide.
And what began as a caution has turned into an excellent discussion on GPS. Read and learn!

Yesterday we traveled from Charleston to Georgetown on the ICW. At GREEN 43 we were dead on the magenta line when the depth under our props went to 0.2 feet. We draft only 39 inches so this is really a problem for most boats.
We put out a securite call on the VHF and saved a couple of boats from going aground. I later heard chatter from a couple of sailboats we had passed earlier that they were having to wait for high tide to traverse this section. It was only a bar and lasted a few seconds as we cleared it but it gave us a start. Today I heard locals in Georgetown talking about trouble in the same place. Be careful out there.
Rusty and Jan Carlisle

I too experienced the shallow water following the magenta line on my Garmin 4210 in this area. I have found that Mr Garmin has put my “boat cursor” in the marsh while in the waters of Georgia and S. Carolina. I have find deeper water by going off the magenta at slow speed usually toward the inside of turns. I poke around a bit and find the “real channel”. With all this said, I still love my Garmin electronics. Most of the time the magenta is right on.
Rick, Sun Gypsy

I think you meant the outside of the turns. General rule of thumb is stay 2/3 rds of width to the outside. Imagine the current flow scouring out a channel. The scouring velocity is greatest on the outside of the turn.Seek the side with larger vegetation and steeper banks. Of course there are many other factors that can cause variations with this “thumb” rule.
Joe

This may or may not be another example of what can happen by spending too much time following the magenta line rather than using visual observations and following the channel markers instead. Often coming up and down the waterway, we found our plotter showing us crossing land instead of being in the channel. We have transited this section many time and were told by other boats over the VHF that there was shallow water, one telling us they
found 4 feet in the channel. When we crossed we actually found 8 feet of water in the channel some five minutes after they passed through. There are other areas like Cumberland Dividings where following the chartplotter will put you solidly aground. I’m not saying this is the case here, but would caution everyone to not depend on the plotter for more than a reference and use good old fashion navigation. When I hear any reports that the boat was aground and on the magenta line, I have to ask myself how accurate the plotter is in this section. Many boats will make the same mistake and before long there are several reports of groundings because too many of us religiously follow the magenta line. The towing companies will often tell us that they have pulled many boats off shallows in the area. The reason is because following the plotter into shallow water is a common problem. We often see many boats running from green to the next red marker down a channel instead of staying well in between the markers. Many channel markers along the ICW sit in one or two feet of water, but boaters will think that as long as they are inside the markers the channel is deep. Running up close to them will almost always lead to a grounding. Since our first trip south on the ICW in 1993 we have observed so many boats hard aground in what they thought was the channel, while we passed safely by. The depths do change for a variety of reasons and caution is always needed, especially in known problem spots. We too follow the various websites looking for the latest information, but often find reports that are based on operator inattention more than poor conditions. Some channels are less forgiving than others should one stray too far.
Chuck Baier

The problem isn’t with the chart plotter, it’s the map they used. The GPS is telling you exactly where you are, but the channel has moved relative to the chart that is published that was used on the chart plotter. The magenta line is published on the chart, and so if the channel has been moved by the moving water, which it has, then the magenta line will lead you astray.
Follow the channel, NOT THE MAGENTA LINE! Makes no difference how new your chart plotter is, it has to do with when the chart used was updated. When you update your chart plotter, hopefully they have used the latest charts available.
Chuck Gorgen aboard ODYSSEE

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Waterway south of McClellanville to Awendaw Creek

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
A Stop at McClellanville, SC and Leland Oil Co. Marina Recommended (Statute Mile 430)

April 17, 2012 by: Claiborne Young Leave a Comment

I have always wanted to recommend stopping in McClellanville, South Carolina, as this idyllic village is a real throwback to yesteryear, with its moss shrouded lanes, and quaint homes that look as if they just stepped out of the early 1900’s. However, until very recently, the “marina” here, known officially as Leland Oil Company, was so rough, it was a real trade-off against the community’s other charms.
Now, a recently completed upgrade project (see /?p=81422) has lifted Leland Oil Company into the modern era. And so, we hope to stop here far more often in the future. May you too be so fortunate.

For those of you travelling the ICW north of Charleston try a stopover in McClellanville. Jeremy Creek is narrow but depth is well maintained by shrimpers. Shrimp season just opened today here in Charleston County, so expect to see more shrimpers out in the ocean catching our dinner!
Upgraded McClellanville, SC Marina
On Jeremy Creek off ICW at Mile 430
New 440 feet of floating dock with water and power stations [20, 30 & 50 amps]. Fuel dock.
Wi-Fi available. About two blocks from the seafood dock/retail sales and in the heart of the historic district. Good restaurant within walking distance.
Contact Duane Merritt, dockmaster, at (843) 887-3641.
Bill and Robin Evans
M/V Rambler (formerly Blue Magic)

McClellanville, SC (MM 430) LeLand Oil Co. dock on Jeremy Creek – new floating docks with 30/50 amp power and water. $1.50 per foot plus $6.50 for 50 amp. No provisioning close by. With our 5 foot draft we were able to depart one hour after low tide on 12 Apr 2012. Nice small southern town – easy place to walk and explore. Two fresh seafood stores and one resturant – check business hours.
Captain Dick – M/V Emerald Lady

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Co. Marina

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Leland Oil Co. Marina
Price Angst at Isle of Palms Marina, AICW Statute Mile 457

April 17, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Isle of Palms Marina is A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! and lies along the South Carolina portion of the AICW, north of Charleston, and southwest of flashing marker #116, on the charted cove indenting the southerly shoreline. The $1.50 transient rate enacted last fall was a temporary reduction from their normal $2.00 rate and we had not received an update until a phone call today confirmed the new rate per foot.

Stayed here April 18 2011. The transient rate was increased April 1 to $2.00 a foot. I had checked the price on the websites after I checked in’¦ it was too late to move to the next marina’¦and they [Isle of Palms Marina] were still showing $1.50 a foot.
Paul Robson

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Isle of Palms Marina

Click Here to Open a Chart View Windows Centered on Isle of Palms Marina
Good Words for Awendaw Creek Anchorage, AICW Statute Miles 436

April 17, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Located halfway between Georgetown and Charleston, SC, Awendaw Creek has been successfully accessed for anchoring by several recent cruisers. On the south side of the Waterway, Awendaw Creek is best approached through its northern entrance which is due south of marker #48 and just west of marker #47 in Harbor River.

We anchored in Awendaw Creek at mile 436. We motored a swing circle and found the charted depths accurate. We dropped right over the 8 foot mark on the chart.
Awendaw was beautiful and without the strong reversing tide we had experienced further south. Despite the wind trailing off, we had no bugs. The river is part of a wildlife preserve and the sounds of every kind of bird call rose from Bull Bay at daybreak. The fishing boys scramble through the anchorage at daybreak but are on plane.
Max Miller

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Awendaw Creek
Praise for Leland Oil Company Now Open and New Docks Ready for Cruisers, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

March 26, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

We understand from other contributors that Leland Oil Company Marina, under a new owner, is steadily making improvements to this very affordable facility and long a source of good fuel prices. We hear, too, that the owner will take time to drive you to nearby stores. Also note that if you have never visited the backwater village of McClellanville, SC, you owe it to yourself to stop here and at least take in the community. It’s like stepping into a time machine that transports you to what most of the Low Country must have looked like 50 years ago. Try it, you might just like it!

Leland Oil Co. is in the process of replacing our fixed wooden docks with new floating docks. Should be ready by March 10 with the utilities in by the 20th. Hope to see some of you soon.
Duane Merritt, Dockmaster

Mar 26,2012
The updates to our docks at Leland Oil Co. are now complete and we are open for business.
Duane Merritt

We were here a few years ago on Easter. Duane invited us to accompany he and his family to a local restaurant for Easter Dinner. It was wonderful. Another time he gave us a ride to a grocery store.
Now the new floating docks are done’¦They came out great’¦ Easy access, new power ped3stals Nice wide aluminum float.
What we love about this place is the hospitality, the down home charm of the area for taking a walk. A couple of FRESH seafood stores’¦.(walking distance) This trip we are here in time for softshell crabs.
Check out the 1000 yr old Live Oak tree. The only thing you can hear here’¦’¦..Nothing! Talk about peace and quiet.
The entrance off the ICW. Stay in the center is the key. We draw 5 1/2′ no prob 1/2 tide.
Bob n Nancy Spiro M/V Rachel J.

March 31, Stayed at Leland Oil Company and had a peaceful night! Brand new floating aluminum docks with new pedestals shows a strong desire to cater to more cruisers. Met and assisted dockside upon arrival. The fuel is convenient and the price is competitive. The rest of the amenities are a little Spartan but the walk around the town is spectacular if you like tree and Spanish moss covered streets and classic southern small town homes. A wonderful stay in a working harbor and we will keep coming back.
Kip Brundage

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Company

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Entrance to McClellanville Channel
Report on AICW Problem Stretch Depths South of McClellanvile, SC, (Statute Mile 431)

February 24, 2012 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Due to persistent shoaling, in early 2011 we designated the Waterway south of McClellanville to Awendaw Creek, as an “ACW Problem Stretch.” Capt. Long gives us even more specifics. As before, we recommend passage at mid or high tide.

Here is my track through the shoaling a mile south of McClellanville, mile 431. I went through at low water and could visually see the shallow spots that account for the “S” curve. I dug what felt like about a 3″ inch trench at the spot indicated at N33 04.239 W79 28.412. I don’t think there is a straight path through here at low water for a boat drawing more than four feet.

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For South of McClellanville

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
South Carolina AICW Bridge Opening Woes And Schedule Changes

December 19, 2011 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Bridge opening schedules can be confusing even with the best wording and with the frequent changes that seem always to occur during the busiest seasons; Chris experienced two of such changes. We have confirmed and listed below the most up-to-date schedules of openings for three of the busiest bridges in SC.

We are very late this year in our trip south. One thing we have encountered is “on signal” bridges which are no longer such. Socastee and Ben Sawyer have new restrictions. Socastee was on the half hour and BS was on the hour on a non-holiday Friday.
Chris aboard Brilliant Star

Socastee Swing Bridge
Opens on Demand with closures required every 15 minutes when vessel traffic is heavy.

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Ben Sawyer Bridge:
Opens on request Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Does not open at all Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, the span opens on the hour from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Opens on demand after 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and after 7:00 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays.

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Directory Listing For Ben Sawyer Bridge

Wappoo Creek Hwy 171 Bridge:
From April 1 to November 30, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last opening at 3:30), and on Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, the bridge opens on the hour and half-hour. From December 1 to March 30, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, the bridge opens on demand (last opening 3:50). From April 1 to May 31, and from October 1 to November 30, Monday through Friday, the bridge does not open at all between the hours of 6:00 am to 9:00am, and from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. From June 1 to September 30, and from December 1 to March 30, the bridge does not open at all between the hours of 6:30 am to 9:00 am, and from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm.

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Directory Listing For Wappoo Creek Bridge

A Visit to Toler’s Cove Marina, Charleston, SC, AICW Statute Mile 462

November 15, 2011 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Toler’s Cove Marina guards the Waterway’s northwestern shore southwest of the Sullivan’s Island swing bridge.

Visited Toler’s Cove Marina November 12 thru 14, 2011. The marina has been overwhelmed by the condo-plex called Marsh Harbor at Toler’s Cove. The only facilities available for transients are an overnight tie up at the fuel dock, access to a rudimentary head (toilet and sink), and 30/50 amp electric and water. Approach depths and dockside depths were in the 6 to 8 foot range at low tide. Fairways are very tight, with no real room to turn a 37 footer around. Had to drift away from fuel/face dock, then back out fairway, make a reverse T, and then exit past the condos. Best thing about the facility was the price, still 1.25/foot in Charleston area.
Steve Kamp

Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Toler’s Cove

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Toler’s Cove Marina
Recommended Anchorage North of Charleston, AICW Statute Mile 450

November 13, 2011 by: Larry Dorminy Leave a Comment

Charlie’s recommended anchorage is a no-name creek between Price Creek and Capers Creek, just west of Marker #90 and slightly north of mile marker 450.
This potential anchor down spot is not included in our “South Carolina Anchorage Directory,” as none of us has ever personally researched these waters. We will certainly correct that oversight soon, and then, and only then, will we consider these waters for inclusion in our anchorage directories.

Cruising News:
11-11-11- For a fair wearther anchorage, this is the spot. Easy to get in– we came in at about 1hr before low- and no problem if stay in middle. After seeing 12-20′, came in about 300 yards and dropped in about 8′. No wind protection, but that means the view is 360 beautiful– sunset and dawn. Far enough off the ICW so no wake from all the snow birds heading south– nice to watch the caravan! Anchor hung at first try. Very mild current. We’ll be back here in good weather. Full bars on verizon and about 15 air TV channels.
Charlie Ridley

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of The Anchorage Described Above

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Archive For: SC – 4 – Belle Isle to Sullivans Island

AICW Problem Stretch Shoaling Confirmed Near McClellanville, SC, Statute Mile 434

Report on Depths in SC Waterway, AICW Statute Miles 420 – 455

IMPORTANT – Serious Shoaling on Jeremy Creek – McClellanville, SC (Statute Mile 430)

Official Army Corps of Engineers Survey (as of November, 2012) of AICW Problem Stretch North of Charleston SC Harbor (near St. M. 460)

More Good Words for Awendaw Creek Anchorage, AICW Statute Miles 436

More AICW Shoaling Reported Near Isle of Palms, (Statute Mile 460)

Good News from Leland Oil Co. Marina – McClellanville, SC (St. M. 430) – Captains Mark and Diana Report

ARGUS Confirms Shoaling on AICW Problem Stretch – AICW Channel South of McClellanville, SC to Awendaw Creek (St. M. 430 to 435)

Continued Praise for Leland Oil Company, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

Photos of Leland Oil Company’s New Floating Docks (McClellanville, South Carolina – AICW, Statute Mile 430)

More Praise for Leland Oil Company Now Open and New Docks Ready for Cruisers, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

Shallow Water at Marker #43, South of McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 434.2

A Stop at McClellanville, SC and Leland Oil Co. Marina Recommended (Statute Mile 430)

Price Angst at Isle of Palms Marina, AICW Statute Mile 457

Good Words for Awendaw Creek Anchorage, AICW Statute Miles 436

Praise for Leland Oil Company Now Open and New Docks Ready for Cruisers, McClellanville, SC, AICW Statute Mile 430

Report on AICW Problem Stretch Depths South of McClellanvile, SC, (Statute Mile 431)

South Carolina AICW Bridge Opening Woes And Schedule Changes

A Visit to Toler’s Cove Marina, Charleston, SC, AICW Statute Mile 462

Recommended Anchorage North of Charleston, AICW Statute Mile 450

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