This writer has the distinct advantage of having spent a good part of his boyhood in Morehead City and Beaufort. Thus, there I times I think I could almost navigate these waters blindfolded.
However, for those without such long standing local knowledge, I heartily endorse Captain advice below. There are LOT of channels in this region, and first timers could be hard put to follow the correct track on the chart, without some advance study.

Cruising News: The southbound ICW channels approaching and through Morehead City NC is a difficult area if one isn’t familiar with them. We recommend that anyone transiting this area for the first time make sure they familiarize themselves with the twists and turns the southbound ICW channel takes as the charts are so congested, that they are hard to follow.
Bob and Teddie Viola
on “Lady T”