Perhaps the most important news in Captain Guy’s message below is the demise of the entrance channel into popular Lighthouse Boatyard. I know from my own visits over the years, that the dredged cut was never too deep, at least in my experience. Sounds like the current entrance is bay of a sparsely marked, local channel. Clearly, cruisers bound for repair work at Lighthouse Boatyard should call well before their arrive for advice on how best to access the yard from the main inlet channel.
Also note that the “South Channel” described below eventually runs (what else) south to an intersection with the AICW, a short hop north of New Smyrna Beach. The Waterway has been shoaling at this intersection. For more on these shallows, go to:
http://www.CruisersNet.net/aicw-shoaling-near-ponce-inlet-south-channel-near-statute-mile-843

Subject: Ponce Inlet from seaward
Cruising News: Entering Ponce Inlet from seaward you may go South to ICW or North to ICW via Halifax river. North has fuel and two boat yards (Lighthouse [Boatyard] and Sea Love).
The entrance to Lighthouse [Boatyard] WAS via a [2006] dredged channel and private marks installed (c 2006). This channel is now completely shoaled and the marks have all been removed. There is a crudely marked channel to the west of the cove. There is enough water to transit but it is tough and unmarked… local knowledge only.
Going South in the Ponce [South Channel], there are a few uncharted marks (#7 & #7a and #8a)… Low water is at #10 (daymark) so give it lots of room (50+)
Ponce Inlet from seaward problems…
Ponce Inlet Marker #10 has very low water less than 5 at mid tide, within 50-60 feet, especially on the south. Be sure to staty mid or favor green #9.
If proceeding to Halifax river, best bet is long way around to ICW #18 [by way of the "South Channel"].
Captain Guy

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at the Lighthouse Boatyard Entrance Passage