Even with the problems at the entrance to Motts Channel solved by recent dredging, Captain Shick and Skipper Allen both recommend Shinn Creek as the preferred route to Masonboro Inlet. Chinn Creek lies two statute miles south of Motts Channel at Marker # 129.

The shoaling at the entrance to Mott’s Channel from the AICW is no longer a problem according to the Wrightsville Beach TowBoat captain. It was apparently dredged in the past month or so. I would still favor the greens until you get past Seapath as the barge that everyone has mentioned continues to work on the beach and will continue to push sand to the north (red) side close to the MarineMax and Wrightsville Marina’s southern docks.
One more thing’¦There is no reason for a mariner to take the Mott’s Channel route either into out out of Wrightsville Beach unless they are trying to a) get to Seapath Marina or b) Anchor at Banks Channel. All others should take the Shinn Creek route which is better marked, deeper, and less crowded.
Skipper Allen

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Entrance to Motts Channel

Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Shinn Creek