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All South Carolina Cruising News
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Below, you will discover our COMPLETE listing of South Carolina cruising news/postings from fellow cruisers, arranged in chronological order, based on publication date. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO NARROW YOUR SELECTION of SC cruising news to those messages which pertain to a specific geographic sub-region, locate the RED, vertically stacked menu, on the right side of this, and all Cruisers’ Net pages. Click on “South Carolina.” A drop down menu will appear, with a blue background, Now, click on “SC Regional Cruising News.” A sub-drop-down menu will now appear, listing 11 South Carolina geographic sub-regions. Select your waters of interest, and after clicking on your choice, a list of messages will appear, confined to the sub-region you have picked!
Yellow Background Denotes Navigation Alert Postings
Light Blue Background Denotes Postings Concerned with “AICW Problem Stretches”
Nov 14, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 33.6809,-79.01429999
LNM: Painting/Height Reduction, Carolina Bays Parkway Bridge, Socastee, SC AICW Statute Mile 372

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This 65ft, 59ft during painting, high-rise fixed bridge was begun in April of 2014 and will cross the Waterway just south of the two new high-rise bridges at Socastee. See /135939 for background on this bridge. Our thanks to Officer Justin Heck for this notice.
SC-31 BRIDGE PAINTING SOCASTEE, SC
The contractor responsible for constructing Carolina Bays Parkway (SC-31) located in Socastee, SC will be performing work on the underside of the bridge structure directly over the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) near mile marker 372.3. The project will begin November 14, 2018 with an expected completion date of December 15, 2018. All work will take place Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The vertical clearance may be temporarily reduced by 6 feet under the portion of the bridge being painted. The work area can be quickly moved to allow the passage of larger vessels if needed.
Mariners are urged to plan transits accordingly to avoid unnecessary disruptions. For more details, please contact project manager Ken McGrath at (803) 517-5256.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of SC31 Bridge Site
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Nov 10, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.138,-80.8119999
December Events at Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 565

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Harbour Town Yacht Basin, A CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is ready for your reservation with newly renovated docks, upgraded electrical service and onSpot WiFi, also a CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR. And, as always, numerous activities at the Sea Pines Resort are offered for your enjoyment, as you will see in the Event Schedule below. Hilton Head Island is absolutely marvelous any time of year, but especially so during the winter holidays. The Gregg Russell Christmas Concert will be priceless for young and old alike!
The Sea Pines Resort
December 2018
Outdoor Movie – “The Santa Clause”
Saturday, December 1; 7pm
Watch a showing of the movie “The Santa Clause” under the Liberty oak in Harbour Town. Benches and a fire pit for roasting marshmallows will be provided. Admission is complimentary with the donation of a canned food item for the Deep Well Project. (843) 842-1979
Outdoor Movie – “Polar Express”
Saturday, December 8; 7pm
Get into the holiday spirit by watching this classic movie under the Liberty Oak. Benches and a fire pit for roasting marshmallows will be provided. Admission is complimentary with the donation of a canned food item for the Deep Well Project. (843) 842-1979
Audubon Christmas Bird Count
Friday, December 14; All Day
Help the Hilton Head Island Audubon Society as it works with communities across America, including Sea Pines, to conduct the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count. To register, contact Susan Murphy at hhicbc@gmail.com.
Outdoor Movie – “A Christmas Story”
Saturday, December 15; 7pm
Put some happy in your holiday watching this Christmas classic under the Liberty oak. Benches and a fire pit for roasting marshmallows will be provided. Admission is complimentary with the donation of a canned food item for the Deep Well Project. (843) 842-1979
Christmas Stocking Deliveries
Friday, December 21 and Saturday, December 22
Friday, December 28 and Saturday, December 29
Surprise your children with a personalized Christmas stocking delivered to your home or villa courtesy of Albert the Alligator, Santa’s very own helper! Reservations required; (843) 842-1979. $30 per stocking
Gregg Russell Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 23; 7:30-9pm
Relish the spirit of the holidays with an evening in Harbour Town. Listen as Gregg Russell plays his guitar and sings songs of the season for children and adults. Before and after the concert, enjoy a special visit from Santa Claus from 5:30-7pm and 9pm! Complimentary
Holiday Fun in Harbour Town
Wednesday, December 26 – Friday, December 28; 5:30-7:30pm
Gather with us around the Liberty Oak to watch classic holiday movies, roast marshmallows and enjoy train rides, games and activities. Movie and marshmallow roasting start at 6pm. Complimentary with the donation of a canned food item for the Deep Well Project. Train rides $5/passenger. (843) 842-1979
18th Annual Polar Bear Swim
Monday, December 31; 10am
Show your adventurous side with the other “polar bears” by taking an invigorating dip in the Harbour Town Pool on a chilly winter day. Warm up after your plunge with hot chocolate and refreshments. (843) 842-1979; Complimentary
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Monday, December 31; 6pm-1am
Join us for a festive New Year’s Eve ball drop from the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse! Enjoy food, entertainment and live music throughout Harbour Town, then count down to the ball drop as we welcome the new year! There will be two ball drops: 7pm and midnight. For additional information, call (843) 842-1979. For dinner reservations at The Quarterdeck, call (843) 842-1999.
Forest Preserve Wagon Journey
Mondays; 3:30-4:30pm
Sit back, relax and experience the animals and plant life of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Reservations required; contact (843) 842-1979. $17/adult, $14/child (ages 12 & younger)
Charter Fishing
Daily; Call for reservations
Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers the most experienced fishing captains on Hilton Head Island operating private fishing charters all year long. Just 10 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, its fleet, including the Izzy A, Echo, Integrity and Payback will guide you to the most fertile fishing grounds. Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers trips ranging from three-hour inshore excursions to overnight trips to the Gulf Stream, 70 miles offshore. All items are provided, and catch will be cleaned at the docks. Reservations are required; contact Harbour Town Yacht Basin at (843) 363-8335.

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Harbour Town Yacht Basin
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Harbour Town Yacht Basin
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Oct 31, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.8517,-79.95239999
LNM: Safety Zone, Nov 5-18, Cooper River, off the AICW from Charleston Harbor, SC

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This safety zone is well north of Charleston Harbor and will be of concern only to cruisers wishing to explore the upper Cooper River. Our thanks to Officer Jeromy Sherrill for this notice.
Sector Charleston Command Center, we request 2-hour broadcast Notice to Mariner beginning at 0600 on November 5, 2018 and ending 2200 on November 18, 2018 stating the following: “Hazardous condition — Explosives operation at Joint Base Charleston Wharf Alpha”
Joint Base Charleston will be conducting explosive operations at Wharf Alpha on the Cooper River above Goose Creek beginning November 5, 2018 through November 18, 2018. Mariners are advised that a Naval Vessel Protection Zone exists around all U.S. Naval Vessels greater than 100 feet in length at all times in the navigable waters of the United States. Mariners are urged to use caution while transiting the area.
This MSIB can be viewed at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/charleston. For questions or concerns regarding this MSIB, contact on-scene security assets via VHF-FM Channel 16, Joint Base Port Operations (843) 794-7746, Sector Charleston Waterways Management Division at (843) 323-7761, or the Sector’s 24-hour Command Center at (843) 740-7050.
Jeromy Sherrill, MSTC
U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Charleston
843-740-3186 x3325
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Oct 30, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.0877,-80.93219999
Pomeranz Report: Advice on Northern Fields Cut, SC AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 575

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Hank Pomeranz of Coastal Yacht Care in Southport, NC is replying to Jim Healy’s observations on Northern Fields Cut in today’s Healy Report.
We also have Robert Shere’s report on this Problem Stretch: Sherer Report.
You might also enjoy comparing Jim Healy’s 2017 Healy Report on this area.
The big surprise is the northern end of Fields Cut at 48A. 3.6MLW is less than other reports we’ve seen. The Navionics Sonar Chart shows the deeper water closer to the shore (75’ or so off the mark). Between those two bits of info I think sound advice is to not get up close and personal to 48A and split the difference between mark and shore. Thanks Jim.
Hank
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To Northern Fields Cut
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Oct 30, 2018by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment Leave A Comment 31.6677,-81.1619999
Healy Report: Port Royal, SC to Walburg Creek, GA, AICW Statute Miles 539 to 619N or 623.5S

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Walburg Creek shapes the east side of Walburg Island and the Waterway lies on the west side. Good depths and great beach combing. My young daughters always declared the beach spooky because of the skeletal trees and dense forest to the east! While the creek has both a northern and southern entrance from the AICW, we prefer the northern passage, though there is still an unmarked shoal northwest of Middle Ground in St. Catherine’s Sound which must be bypassed. Experienced cruisers, Jim and Peg Healy, continue to generously share their observations and advice as they make their way south for the winter. Thank you Jim and Peg!
On Monday, 10/29/2018, Sanctuary and crew travelled from Port Royal, SC to Walburg Creek, GA. Following, some observations:
We arrived at Ramshorn’s Cut at 10h15 with the tide station at Daufuskie Island (Daufuskie Landing) showing 5.8+ rising. We saw 11.0 ft, so (11.0 – 5.8) = 5.2′ at MLLW. The channel between G39 and R40 has narrowed further. We took the visual center.
We arrived at the un-named connector between the New River and the Wright River at 10h38 with the tide station at Daufuskie Island (Hargray Pier) showing 6.2+ rising. We saw 12.2 ft, so (12.2 – 6.2) = 6.0′ at MLLW. Follow the visual center. Honor, but stay away from, the lateral markers on pilings.
We arrive at Field’s Cut at 11h06 with the tide station at Field’s Cut showing 7.6+ rising. Southbound, take the visual center between G47 and R48, and line up on Field’s Cut. HONOR R48A, which appears off-station to the East. We saw 11.2 ft passing about 25 ft off R48A, so (11.2 – 7.6) = 3.6′ at MLLW. This was a surprise! We followed the visual center of Field’s Cut, favoring the outside radius of the turns. That 3.6′ area was the control depth of the cut. Cross-currents are significant at the Savannah River. Be alert for river traffic and cross currents.
There was a large, working crane barge at the Causton Bluff bridge. It appears “they” are replacing that bridge with a high rise. Another surprise.
We arrived at Hell Gate (MM600) at 14h18, with the Egg Islands Tide Station reporting +7.0 falling. Depths we saw:
G87 13.5′
G89 10.4′
9.8 low water between markers
R90 10.9
G91 10.4
So (9.8 – 7.0) = 2.8′ MLLW. Also note, as you enter this cut from the Vernon River, there is a STRONG cross current that will try to sweep you sideways. Boats will need some power and some aggressive steering to stay on the best route. We crabbed into the lee of the current at about a 20° angle. There is a prominent visual distraction just to the west of the marked channel. There is a piling left over from some previous danger mark standing prominently, while the red and green floaters that mark the channel are low to the water and hard to see. Do not confuse that piling as a valid channel marker. Follow and honor the cans and nuns in the water
Net: the overall condition of the A-ICW continues to deteriorate. Most cruising boats will need some tide help to get through this section. Plan accordingly.
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Port Royal Landing Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Port Royal Landing Marina
Click Here To View the Georgia Anchorage Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Walburg Creek Anchorage
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Walburg Creek Anchorage
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Richard Ross - November 9, 2018 - 7:24 pm

Passed thru Fields Cut on Nov 9, 2018, and found a minimum of 8 feet MLW at north end of Fields Cut. But there are two possible "gotchas". R48A appears to be off station, but it is not. For best water pass half way between R48A and the eastern shore. Also, be aware that once you turn to enter Fields Cut, (if southbound) you will be subject to strong cross currents.
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Oct 29, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.1381,-80.8119999
November Events at Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town Yacht Basin, AICW Statute Mile 565

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Harbour Town Yacht Basin, A CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, is ready for your reservation with newly renovated docks, upgraded electrical service and onSpot WiFi, also a CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR. And, as always, numerous activities at the Sea Pines Resort are offered for your enjoyment, as you will see in the Event Schedule below. Hilton Head Island is absolutely marvelous any time of year, but especially so during the holidays of Fall. The Gregg Russell Thanksgiving Concert will be priceless for young and old alike!
The Sea Pines Resort
November 2018
The Bonfire
Friday, November 9; 4:30-7:30pm
Join the Sea Pines Forest Preserve Foundation for the 8th annual Bonfire Fundraiser. The evening will include cocktails, a Low country-inspired menu, live music and a silent auction. Proceeds will benefit capital replacement projects throughout the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Tickets are $75/person and may be purchased starting in October by contacting Community Service Associates (CSA) at (843) 671-1343.
Thanksgiving Wagon Ride
Tuesday, November 20; 3 and 4:15pm
Wednesday, November 21; 3 and 4:15pm
Thursday, November 22; 10 and 11:15am
Friday, November 23; 3 and 4:15pm
Saturday, November 24; 10 and 11:15am
Enjoy a festive wagon ride as we marvel at the fall colors, as well as abundant plant and wildlife in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Cookies and refreshments will be provided. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting The Sea Pines Resort’s recreation department at (843) 842-1979. $17/adults and $14/adults (ages 12 & younger).
Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
Thursday, November 22; 9-11:30am
Kick off your holiday festivities with this fun family-friendly activity! Reservations are required and may be made by contacting The Sea Pines Resort’s recreation department at (843) 842-1979 by 5pm on Wednesday, November 22. $25/family.
Stan Smith Thanksgiving Tennis Academy
Thursday, November 22– Saturday, November 24
Enjoy this Thanksgiving with Stan Smith, former U.S. Open and Wimbledon Champion and U.S. Olympic men’s tennis coach. This is a unique opportunity for participants to not only learn from Stan, but to also get to know him. To reserve your space for this special event, please call the Sea Pines Racquet Club at (843) 363-4495. $305/adults only
Stan Smith Thanksgiving Tennis Exhibition and Happy Hour
Friday, November 23; 2:30pm
Watch former world number one player Stan Smith in action at our annual Thanksgiving Pro tennis exhibition. Receive valuable tips, enjoy complimentary refreshments and win prizes in the raffle! Our only request is to please bring some canned gods to benefit the Deep Well Project. For additional information, please contact the Sea Pines Racquet Club at (843) 363-4495. Complimentary
16th Annual Fishing Tournament
Friday, November 23; 10am-12pm
Join us in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve to fish for bass, bream and catfish at Fish Island. Try to win a prize in one of our tournament categories; refreshments will be provided. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting The Sea Pines Resort’s recreation department at (843) 842-1979. $16/person including fishing pole or $11/person without fishing pole.
Harbour Town Lights
Friday, November 23 – January 1, 2019
Enjoy the lights! Stroll along the Harbour and enjoy the illuminated seasonal figures, with the centerpiece of the display being a towering Christmas tree. Harbour Town is the perfect place to be this holiday season with live entertainment and activities. The official tree lighting will take place just prior to the Gregg Russell Concert on Friday, November 23 at 7:30pm.
Make a difference. While you’re enjoying the holiday season, you can help Deep Well make a difference in someone else’s life. Bring a canned good or two, or a new unwrapped child’s toy, and drop them in the “well” by the Liberty Oak stage. Since 1973, the non-profit, volunteer-based Deep Well has been serving the basic needs of the less fortunate on Hilton Head Island.
Gregg Russell Thanksgiving Concert
Friday, November 23; 7:30-9pm
Join us under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town for a very special Gregg Russell Thanksgiving concert for the entire family, as well as the official tree lighting of the Harbour Town Christmas tree. Complimentary
Caramel Apple Festival
Saturday, November 24; 1-3pm
Bring the family to Heritage Farm for a fun afternoon of fall activities, including caramel apples, games, crafts and more! For additional information, please contact The Sea Pines Resort’s recreation department at (843) 842-1979. Rates vary based on activities.
Forest Preserve Wagon Journey
Mondays, 3:30-4:30pm only
Sit back, relax and experience the animals and plant life of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Reservations required; contact (843) 842-1979. $17/adult, $14/child (ages 12 & younger)
Charter Fishing
Daily; Call for reservations
Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers the most experienced fishing captains on Hilton Head Island operating private fishing charters all year long. Just 10 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, its fleet, including the Izzy A, Echo, Integrity and Payback will guide you to the most fertile fishing grounds. Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers trips ranging from three-hour inshore excursions to overnight trips to the Gulf Stream, 70 miles offshore. All items are provided, and catch will be cleaned at the docks. Reservations are required; contact Harbour Town Yacht Basin at (843) 363-8335.
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Harbour Town Yacht Basin
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Harbour Town Yacht Basin
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Oct 28, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.5288,-80.39989999
Healy Report: Mount Pleasant, SC to Beaufort, SC, AICW Statute Miles 465-536.5

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Experienced cruisers, Jim and Peg Healy, continue to generously share their observations and advice as they make their way south for the winter. Thank you Jim and Peg! Fenwick Cut slices through a narrow neck of Fenwick Island and connects the Ashepoo River with the Stono, north of the infamous Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff, a Cruisers Net Problem Stretch.
Today is Saturday, 10/27/2018. Sanctuary and crew traveled 75 StM from Mount Pleasant, SC to Beaufort, SC. High tide in the region was right around 12h00.
The Dredge Tenacious is working at the northern entry to the Dawho River. The Dredge answers on VHF 13 and VHF 65. The Dredge DOES NOT monitor VHF 16, which was a severe surprise and consternation to a lot of pleasure craft today, who nevertheless continued valiantly to try to raise him on VHF 16. Approach the dredge slowly, and follow his directions. Don’t forget to thank him for his work, which of course is to our benefit!
We entered Watts Cut at the McKinley-Washington bridge at 11h30. The minimum we saw in the cut was 13.7′ at +7.7′ on the tide. That makes the control depth (13.7 – 7.7) = 6.0 ft at MLLW. We followed the visual center of the cut except I cut the corner at Green 135. DO NOT cut the corners. Where I was, I would have had a problem of the muddy sort at low tide.
We entered Fenwick Cut at about 12h30. The tide station at Edisto Beach was reporting +5.6′. We saw 12.4′ in the cut, so control depth was (12.4 – 5.6) = 6.8 ft. Southbound, we saw red lateral R162 on a piling. The chart shows a red R162A on a piling and a floating R162B. There is a piling there for R162A, but no dayboard is present. We did not see a floating Red nun there, either. Net is, come down the S. Edisto river, and turn into the center of the cut. There is shoaling along both shorelines, so don’t cut the corners. Line up and go through along the visual center.
The Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff is in two halves. Southbound, we entered the northern half at 12h45, with the tide station in that cut showing +6.2. Depths were in the range of 17 feet, so I didn’t pay much attention there. The southern half was dredged in the spring of 2018. There was severe shoaling at the junction of the Cut with the Coosaw River. We cleared that area at 13h00, with the tide at +5.8. We saw 11.9′ depths in the visual center of the entrance between G164 and R185, so the control depth would be (11.9 – 5.8) = 6.1 ft. I guess I would say the spring dredging helped at the junction of the Coosaw river, but did not do much to otherwise deepen the southern half of the Ashepoo-Coosaw Cut. At least most boats don’t have to do the St. Helena Sound route at this time.
We’re just coming off full moon. We faced strong 2.5 kt ahead currents on and off all day, and particularly up-stream on the Coosaw River. That made for a tedious slog up the river. But at the divide at Brickyard Creek on the Beaufort River, we picked up speed and did very well for those last 8 miles into Beaufort. These strong flood and ebb currents will affect slow boats.
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Fenwick Cut
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff Problem Stretch
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Oct 28, 2018by: Larry Dorminy 2 Comments Leave A Comment 32.5146,-80.4969999
Healy Report: Good News on Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff, AICW Problem Stretch Mile 517

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Our thanks to Jim Healy for this good news report from Ashepoo-Coosaw Problem Stretch which can be a very shallow spot between dredgings. Regarding Jim’s reference to the St Helena Route, see /?p=141157">Good Depths. For more of Jim’s report, see Mt. Pleasant to Beaufort.
The Ashepoo-Coosaw Cutoff is in two halves. Southbound, we entered the northern half at 12h45, with the tide station in that cut showing +6.2. Depths were in the range of 17 feet, so I didn’t pay much attention there. The southern half was dredged in the spring of 2018. There was severe shoaling at the junction of the Cut with the Coosaw River. We cleared that area at 13h00, with the tide at +5.8. We saw 11.9′ depths in the visual center of the entrance between G164 and R185, so the control depth would be (11.9 – 5.8) = 6.1 ft. I guess I would say the spring dredging helped at the junction of the Coosaw river, but did not do much to otherwise deepen the southern half of the Ashepoo-Coosaw Cut. At least most boats don’t have to do the St. Helena Sound route at this time.
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Comments from Cruisers (2)

Richard Ross - November 9, 2018 - 6:45 pm

I can confirm that Jim Healy is correct. The CoosawAshapoo cut is now six feet MLW
Reply to Richard

CARL REITZ - November 8, 2018 - 10:51 am

Presume Jim was talking about the green 185 daymark and flashing red 184 when he used "G164 and R185".
Also via Hank Pomeranz on 10-31-2018 two vessels reported that the 184 was missing.
Reply to CARL
Oct 28, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment
Healy Report: Full Moon Tides, Georgetown to Mt. Pleasant, SC, AICW Statute Miles 403-465
Experienced cruisers, Jim and Peg Healy, continue to generously share their observations and advice as they make their way south for the winter. Mt. Pleasant is on the eastern shore of Charleston Harbor. Thank you Jim and Peg!
Today is 10/26/2018. Full moon tides. Sanctuary and Crew Departed Georgetown, SC at 07h30 and traveled to Mount Pleasant, SC.
We transited McClellanville southbound between 10h36 and 19h55. According to Aqua Maps, the tides were +6.08′ falling at 10h36 and 6.0′ falling at 10h55. Virtually high tide; how in the world did I do that?
G35 17.3′
G35A 14.2′ low reading between markers
12.4′
G37 13.1′
11.1′ low reading between markers
R38 11.3′
10.7′ low reading between markers
G39 10.7′
11.3′ low reading between markers
R40 11.9′
11.7′ low reading between markers
R42 14.4′
Subtracting 6.0′ from the least of these depths, MLLW would be (10.7′ – 6.0′) = 4.7′. That DOES NOT account for negative tides during celestial low tide periods. I transited this area in the visual center of the waterway.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
We transited the Mount Pleasant range southbound from Isle-Of-Palms to the Ben Sawyer Bridge between 13h49 and 14h05. Aqua Maps put the tide at +1.9′ falling at 13h49.
Mt. Pleasant Bridge 10.6′
10.2′
R118 10.4′
Swinton Creek 8.9′
G117 9.8′
7.3′
Conch Creek 14.7′
7.6′
G119 7.8′
Inlet Creek 12.2′
G121 9.3′
Subtracting 1.9′ from the least of these depths, MLLW would be (7.3 – 1.9) = 5.4′ We found the best water in the visual center of the waterway, which is different from previous years. Again, additional planning is needed for negative tides during celestial low tide periods.
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
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Oct 24, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 33.0775,-79.45929999
Report from Problem Stretch South of McClellanville, , AICW Statute Miles 430-433

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The waterway south of McClellanville all the way to the Ben Sawyer Bridge has been shoaling for years and Cruisers Net still recommends mid to high tide for passage through this section. Our thanks to Bill Reymolds for this report posted on Bob423. See Reminder, another report from last Fall.
I would just like to reinforce earlier comments about the stretch south of McClellanville. We found at 5 feet above low tide water depths below 9 ft and places. Would not want to do that at low tide or even near low time.
Bill Reynolds
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To The Northern Portion of This AICW Problem Stretch
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Oct 24, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 33.681,-79.04179999
Boat Goats and Good Words for Osprey Marina, AICW Statute Mile 373

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A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, popular Osprey Marina is at mile marker 373 on the Intracoastal Waterway south of Myrtle Beach, SC. Thankfully, Osprey Marina has almost completely recovered from the damages of hurricane Florence. Our thanks to Timothy Gaffney for these kind words and to Tricia Beck True for the photo as posted on B0b423.
Boat Goats Photo by Tricia Beck True
We left Osprey last Thursday and the goats had just finished trimming the bushes by the office.
Fantastic Marina! They really took great care of our boat before, during and after Flooding Florence.
Timothy Gaffney
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Osprey Marina
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Oct 23, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment
Sherer Report: Brickyard Creek and Northern Fields Cut, SC AICW Statute Miles 530 and 574
Robert Sherer is responding to the request for local knowledge from Brig Burgess on Bob423. The Waterway immediately west of the loop of Brickyard Creek is a short narrow channel north of Beaufort. Fields Cut, at both north and south ends, is notorious for shoaling and shifting channels. Cruisers Net recommends mid to high tide for both.
We are running inside tomorrow Beaufort Sc to mp 614. Looks like a few skinny cuts. Any updates through this run or tracks to download? I did not see any routes on Aqua Maps? Tide will be low when I get to some of the locations?
Brig Burgess
Two major problems: Brickyard Creek and Fields Cut. Both are easily navigated if you take the right track.
Check Waterway Guide Alerts for both. The alerts provide detailed info on how to navigate safely.
Aqua Map has Alert symbols for both areas, tap on the Alert and a popup will show you the way. Fields Cut has a GPX route you can download.
Here’s an example of the view in Aqua Map showing the Alert icon to tap on.

Northern Fields Cut
Brickyard Creek

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To Northern Fields Cut
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Oct 22, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment
Healy Report: Southport, NC to Socastee, SC, AICW Statute Miles 309-371
Experienced cruisers, Jim and Peg Healy, continue to generously share their observations and advice as they make their way south for the winter, making good time with this 62 mile leg. Thank you Jim and Peg!
Today is Monday, 10/22/2018. Sanctuary and crew departed Southport at 06h40, traveled tp Socastee, and arrived at 15h30.
We arrived at Lockwood’s Folly at 08h15, where the tide was +3.84 ft, falling, from a 4.5 ft high. I had programmed a route through the Folly using the waypoints provided by Hank Pomeranz. The route is perfect, and I recommend it to others. The least water we saw was crossing the bar between waypoint1 and waypoint2 at 9.5, so (9.5-3.8)=5.67 ft MLW. The marker are in the correct places, and without the autopilot, simply follow the markers. There is a strong ebb current in the area, and it is easy to get set off the planned line. Following is a screenshot of the affair:

Shallotte’s Inlet was unremarkable. One green marker has been moved toward the red side, but simple follow the markers in the water for safe passage.
We found a very strong ahead current from the Calabash Crossroads all the way to Socastee. That is obviously stronger for the huge volume of water still draining from that local watershed. There was virtually no flotsam in the waterway. The Socastee Swing Bridge was operating, but at dramatocally slower speed than normal. The bridge tender said the bridge was in “maintenance mode.” Not sure what the implications are, but it took a long time for the bridge to swing open, and it was still swinging closed when we rounded the bend and couldn’t see it any more.
Cruisers should transit the area above the Socastee Swing Bridge at “slow speed, minimum wake.” The staining on the trees and buildings is heart breaking. The older homes built on ground slabs have staining above the level of the bottoms of their living room windows and half way up their garage doors.. Certainly, many homes are uninhabitable today, and it will take months for these folks to recover. Many docks are damaged or destroyed. Cruisers must ensure that their wakes do not add to their already severe difficulties.
Jim
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
Monk 36 Hull #132
MMSI #367042570
AGLCA #3767
MTOA #3436
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Oct 22, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.2163,-80.78089999
Praise for Windmill Harbour Marina, Hilton Head Island, AICW Statute Mile 558

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Windmill Harbour Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located on Skull Creek, on the shores of Hilton Head Island. Our thanks to David and Jacquelyn for sharing these beautiful sunset photos from their delightful blog. Thanks to Timothy Gaffney for these good words posted on Bob423.
We are enjoying one of the nicest Marinas: Windmill Harbour on Hilton Head. They have their own lock!
Later this week we are headed south and I’d like any recent knowledge on Hells Gate near mile marker 601.
We crossed it in April with no issues at Mid tide. I’m embarrassed to say I’m having trouble finding the tidal location. Thanks
Timothy Gaffney
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Windmill Harbour Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Windmill Harbour Marina
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Oct 22, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.6207,-80.28759999
Pomeranz Report: Dredging Underway in Dawho River, AICW Statute Mile 480-518

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This dredging is welcome news as Cruisers Net has had reports of shallow water encountered near the eastern end of the Waterway’s passage through South Carolina’s Dawho River between the North and South Edisto Rivers. Our thanks to Hank Pomeranz of Carolina Yacht Care for this report and passing advice.
I just spoke with Goodloe Marine who is currently dredging portions of the ICW between MM 480 – 518. They are currently dredging in the Dawho River just south of the N. Edisto River between G111 and G117 at around MM 497. The dredge is Tenacious and should be hailed by name on Ch 16. Currently, pass the dredge on the red side as the pipeline is on the green side. This may change so always pass on the diamonds as usual. Tenacious should be on station for another couple of weeks.
Hank
See also Sherer Report on the Dawho River
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dawho River
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Oct 20, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 32.7783,-79.9529999
City Marina Under New Ownership, AICW Statute Mile 469, Charleston, SC

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City Marina, A CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Bristol Marina and the Harborage are all located on the Ashley River near Mile 469 where the southbound Waterway turns southwest. City Boatyard is located on the upper Wando River.
Dear Charleston boaters,
It is with great excitement that I would like to officially announce that Charleston City Marina, Bristol Marina, City Boatyard, & the Harborage at Ashley Marina’s Fuel & Transient Dock are now members of the Safe Harbor Marinas family!
As the largest owner and operator of marinas in the world, Safe Harbor is entirely dedicated to serving our boaters with the highest standards of excellence in every aspect of our operations. We welcome the opportunity to earn your business by not only ensuring that your boating needs are met every time you are with us, but also investing in your experience through improvements and initiatives that enhance your overall enjoyment of these world-class marine facilities. Our commitment to your boating community is strong, and it is our great pleasure to serve you and your family whether you are at your home port in Charleston, or at any other Safe Harbor property across the country.
Furthermore, we are genuinely committed to delivering an unparalleled boating lifestyle experience to all of our Members, and we believe that you will find many of the exciting initiatives and benefits that we offer exclusively for our Members to be welcome enhancements for your life on the water.
Transition Notes:
As we work through our transition process, we would like to inform you that you may notice different legal names appearing on your credit statements for recurring billings and purchases from our marinas.
Additionally, the current local management team at these facilities will stay in place through the transition process. We are delighted to work with the existing staff and provide them with added support from both our regional and corporate teams.
From all of us at Safe Harbor, we cannot tell you how excited and honored we are to have you join our family. If you would like to learn more about our growing network, please visit shmarinas.com. Furthermore, if you have any questions or concerns, please let us know, and we will be glad to help you in any way possible.
Warmest Regards,

Rives Potts COO
SAFE HARBOR MARINAS
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston City Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston City Marina
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Oct 19, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment 33.8267,-78.70759999
ICW Buoy 17 Back on Station, AICW Statute Mile 351, Myrtle Beach, SC

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This Waterway Marker is on the southeast side of the narrow channel through North Myrtle Beach. Our thanks to Rod Busbee for this update. The “rockpile” is officially the Pine Island Cut and is flanked on both sides of the channel with large slabs of rock not always visible at high tide.
Green buoy 17 in the Rockpile at North Myrtle Beach was put back on station yesterday. It appears to be a bit farther into the channel than before. Cruisers need to stay to the green side to avoid the rock shelf that extends out from the west side in the area of the orange Clemson flag.
Rod Busbee
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Buoy 17.
Area Sponsoring Marina
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Barefoot Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Barefoot Marina
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Oct 17, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment
LNM: Carolina Yacht Club Wild Oyster Lightning Regatta, Oct 20-21, Charleston Harbor, Charleston SC, AICW Statute Mile 465
The race course for this regatta will parallel a portion of the Waterway west of the Waterway’s entrance into the eastern shore of the Charleston Harbor. NO WAKE is the call for this passage through Charleston Harbor! Note that the Lightning sailboat is a fast boat capable of rapid bursts of speed, so keep a sharp watch through the race course. Our thanks to Officer Jeromy Sherrill for this notice.
The Carolina Yacht Club Wild Oyster Lightening Regatta will be held October 20 and 21, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The race course is located south of Castle Pickney in the area charted as Middle Ground. The regatta consist of approximately 40 small sailboats and 10 safety boats.
Mariners are urged to plan transits accordingly to avoid unnecessary disruptions. The event coordinator will be on scene and will be monitoring VHF channels 74 / 13.
For questions or concerns regarding this MSIB please contact Sector Charleston Waterways Management Division at (843)323-7761, or our 24-hour Command Center Line at (843)740-7050.

Respectfully,
Jeromy Sherrill, MSTC
U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Charleston
843-740-3186 x3325
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Shutes Folly
AREA SPONSORING MARINAS!
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston City Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston City Marina
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston Harbor Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston Harbor Marina
Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cooper River Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Cooper River Marina
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Oct 11, 2018by: Larry Dorminy No Comments Leave A Comment
LNM: SC DOT Operational Bridges Returned to Normal Service
Our thanks to Officer Sherrill for this good news.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation has concluded their Operational Bridge Heavy Weather Plan. As a result, the bridges listed below have returned to normal service. MSIB 48-18 Operational Bridge Closures – Coast South Carolina is cancelled.
Beaufort County
-Harbor River
-Lady’s island
Charleston County
-Wappoo
-Ashley River
-Ben Sawyer
Horry County
-Socastee
-Little River
Jeromy Sherrill, MSTC
U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Charleston
843-740-3186 x3325
For additional information regarding the bridge closures log onto the South Carolina Department of Transportation website at http://www.scdot.org, or call 1-855-GO-SCDOT (1-855-467-2368).
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