Captains Chris and Janet are responding to a recent posting relating a very rough passage that adhered strictly to the magenta line through St. Andrew Sound (/?p=130811). Their suggested route below comes complete with a chart. We would like to hear from others who might have made a similar cut close to Horseshoe Shoal to the west of Marker #32. Note Chris and Janet’s very wise tracking of tide during their crossing.
Unless seriously constrained by draft or schedule, a 6 kt boat passing through Jekyll Creek at high tide can cross the outer end of Horseshoe Shoal well to the west of both #31 and #32. We made our first transit of this area 30 minutes after high tide at the Jekyll Marina Station and never saw less than 12 feet on the shoal with wave conditions moderated. Heading south [from Jekyll Creek], when the magenta line crossed Latitude 31 on the chart, we turned for the old tower on Little Cumberland Island. When the water depth plummeted (west of #32 by 0.6 nm) we turned to intercept the magenta line off #33. This became our standard route. Caveat, we are unhurried cruisers with 5.5 foot draft. We arrange our days to pass Jekyll, Crooked River, Amelia River #1, and Sawmill Creek #49, each, an hour before high tide. Chris and Janet
We have taken a similar path six times across Horseshoe Shoals with our 3ft draft Great Harbour trawler. Our route is more north/south right along 081 25.0 W. We’ve always seemed to transit at half tide or better on both ebb and flood tides and are careful to not let the strong current set us east or west. Correcting for the tide we’ve always seen depths that concur with those charted (7 to 8ft mlw). We don’t turn away from our N/S heading until the depths drop off. Have been hesitant to share this as we are each responsible for our on navigation and have different risk tolerance. With a 3ft draft we are probably more tolerant of 7ft charted depths even in area’s where the significant tidal currents can change the bottom quickly. Roger Arrowood
Hi All, I think Capt Chris and Janet have my chart plotter 🙂 That is the course I take every crossing of that sound. Good job explaining how to BTW. As always you are welcome to call for local knowledge at Jekyll Harbor Marina or Tow Boat US. We have several Captains that cross the sound each day ferrying clients to Cumberland and can report on conditions. Hope this helps! Sonny Reeves
Jan 18 2014 We can confirm the above comments on this route. Came thru 1 hour before high tide with 5.5 ft draft and never saw less than 12′ of water. Randy Tice
We have crossed this path many times most recent was Jan 12 going South. Always cutting the corner at the angle shown. As soon as we pass R30 we start turning to the light house. We draw 4 ft and have crossed at low tide. Sonny Reeves
Jekyll Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, lies along the easterly banks of the AICW’s passage through Jekyll Creek, immediately south of the 65-foot fixed bridge. All Waterway cruisers, north or southbound, will pass Jekyll Harbor Marina.
Jekyll Harbor Marina is a great spot right on the ICW to spend the night, or spend several months. We are spending the winter here. Great facilities – pool, restaurant, bicycles available, dog friendly, the staff is friendly and always ready to help, and the General Manager, Scott Todd, makes it all run like a well oiled machine. If they don’t have what you need just ask and they will do everything they can to make your visit a pleasant one. The Island is not to be missed – oozing with history, awesome dog friendly beaches, beautiful golf courses and miles of scenic bike paths. Alan /Kathy Morris
Here are good words for Thunderbolt Marine as originally posted on Trawler Forum, http://www.trawlerforum.com/. Thunderbolt Marine flanks the Waterway’s southwestern shores just northwest of the small, charted square cove, south of AICW marker #35.
Thunderbolt Marina is only in walking distance to Tubby’s Tank House. However, they may still have donuts in the morning for transients. Out at Thunderbolt cabs would be my preference to get into town. They may have city bus service out there. I don’t know that they have a courtesy car. Don on “Monstruck”
Here are good words for Isle of Hope Marina as originally posted on Trawler Forum, http://www.trawlerforum.com/. A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, Isle of Hope Marina lies along the northwestern shores of the Waterway in the body of a hairpin turn northwest of AICW marker #46A.
Isle of Hope is a good marina, and sometimes has a loaner car, but walking distance to nowhere. Don on “Moonstruck”
Here are good words for River Street Market Place Dock as originally posted on Trawler Forum, http://www.trawlerforum.com/. River Street Market Place Dock is located on the Savannah River in downtown Savannah.
If you want to be downtown, the River Street waterfront is best. Just fender up, put away, lockup and enjoy. You will not lack for activity both on the water and in town. Don on “Moonstruck”
In addition to Umbrella Cut (see /?p=128619) and other alternates (see /?p=118925) to avoid the infamous R32 in often turbulent waters, Captain Ehlen offers the following suggestion that is an “around your elbow” route, but seems straight forward. THE SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET WANTS TO MAKE IT CRYSTAL CLEAR THAT WE ARE NOT ADVOCATING THE ALTERNATE ROUTE SUGGESTED BELOW BY CAPTAIN EHLEN. However, now that we have a first-hand account from Captain Richard Ross, cruising aboard the ARGUS cooperative research vessel, Chez Nous, this route is CERTAINLY on our radar to research in the near future! Even the adventurous among us should not have the tiniest thought of trying to run the channel east of #7 without an up to date and well functioning GPS chart plotter aboard.
I haven’t tried this myself, but looking at the charts it seems to me that there is a deep water alternative. When heading south, at red #2 at Raccoon Key Split, turn to starboard SW above Horseshoe Shoal. Follow markers 3,4,5 and 6, then turn to port after G7. Head east until back on the ICW between FG33 and G33A. I hope someone has comments, good or bad, about this alternative. Wade Ehlen
Here’s a posting from `the archives’ that describes the route I recently suggested. Posted on 11-02-2011 “We went through the area yesterday. It was beyond awful in the Sound, so we turned to starboard up the Satilla River to marker 8, turned to port and worked our way through the deeper water back to Cumberland River. This is NOT the charted alternate route, but much shorter and worked for us. It was about 2 hours after high tide and we were able to make it through. We draw 5′. Not flat, but the giant elephants in St. Andrews made it a no-brainer for us. Take a look, and good luck! Stephanie Wakelin M/V September Song” Wade Ehlen
And, finally, HERE IS THE FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE OF THIS ALTERNATE ROUTE WE HAVE BEEN SEEKING, and from a veteran cruiser, piloting an ARGUS cooperative research vessel, no less. We have pasted a shot of the channel near marker #7, showing the ARGUS soundings. Click on the chartlet to be taken to a Chart View page of these waters, with the ARGUS layer automatically activated!
We have taken this route twice, and it does avoid the worst of marker 32. The charted depths are fairly accurate, and the only shallow spot is a sharp bump just south of marker 7. Take it slow there, as the bottom rises quickly from 12 ft to about 5 feet MLW, then immediately drops back to 12ft. Click on ARGUS to see the exact spot. Richard Ross M/V Chez Nous
Came though the same route as Chez Vous early December. Winds ENE 15-20. Good alternative’¦ had same observations. Draft:5.5ft Doug Jacoby
The unpleasant passage experienced by Captain Gorham and crew is the reason we continue to look for alternate routes to avoid the infamous R32 in St. Andrew Sound (see /?p=130801). SSECN has heard similar horror stories and has had a Navigation Alert posted for Marker #32 for some time now.
We had a wild ride southbound through the Sound on November 30, 2013 in our 26 foot Glacier Bay cat. Conditions were a lot rougher than I anticipated, and visibility got bad due to spray and the occasional breaking wave over the bow. We shaved marker 32 close on the western side, and had 10 foot depths that dropped very quickly to 35-40 feet almost immediately after we passed the marker. There were solid breaking waves on the big shoal to the east of the marker at the time, so I suspect it was close on to low tide. Jonathan Gorham M/V Top Cat
I talked to a ferry captain that crosses the sound twice each day 365 days a year and he advised that a Northeast wind was the worst for the affect on the waves and current. A Northwest wind would be second worst and then next worst would opposing winds and tides, i.e. West winds with incoming tide or East winds and out-going tide. South winds being most favorable. Sonny Reeves
OK, ALL AICW cruisers bound through southern Georgia within the next six months (at least), LISTEN UP! It appears we have a serious problem on the AICW’s passage through often ROUGH St. Andrew Sound, south of Jekyll Creek/Island. The data detailed below was sent to the Cruisers’ Net by way of fellow cruising guide author, Captain John Kettlewell. Captain John, a good and long-time friend of yours truly, and I have been in close touch about this St. Andrew Sound situation, and compared notes. Unfortunately, neither of us has had occasion to research this portion of the Waterway for a good two years, so WE COULD REALLY USE SOME LATE BREAKING INPUT FROM THE CRUISING COMMUNITY CONCERNING THIS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS SITUATION! If you have cruised the St. Andrew Sound section of the AICW within the last 4 months, PLEASE e-mail me directly at CruisersNet@triad.twcbc.com, or click the “Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below! With that being said, it appears to both John and myself, that the charted shoal north and northeast of marker #32, may well have built out almost to the northern edge of this aid to navigation. Thus, if any vessel attempts to pass #32 to its northern or eastern sides, that sad sound of keel meeting sand (or mud), will be the result. As Captain John notes below, the marker numbering scheme, and the placement of the infamous (and ofter incorrect) magenta line in these waters is truly bizarre. John suggests, with good reason, that #32 might now be an inlet marker, and should be passed to its safe, southern side when cruising east to west through St. Andrew Sound Inlet. I agree with John that this seem plausible, BUT, conversely, the numbering suggests #32 is in fact an AICW marker. Our collective best advice at this point, is to be SURE to pass #32 to its western and southwestern flanks, without straying too far from this aid to navigation. Under no circumstances should you attempt to pass #32 to its northerly side. Ignore strangely placed marker #31A. From #32, southbound AICW craft should point to eventually come abeam of marker #33 well to its western side. Note that it’s a long gap between #32 and #33! OK, AGAIN, we need to more input on this situation. PLEASE let us hear from you! The SSECN is declaring a Navigational Alert for these waters!
Update as of 12/2013
We had a wild ride southbound through the Sound on November 30, 2013 in our 26 foot Glacier Bay cat. Conditions were a lot rougher than I anticipated, and visibility got bad due to spray and the occasional breaking wave over the bow. We shaved marker 32 close on the western side, and had 10 foot depths that dropped very quickly to 35-40 feet almost immediately after we passed the marker. There were solid breaking waves on the big shoal to the east of the marker at the time, so I suspect it was close on to low tide. Jonathan Gorham M/V Top Cat
Earlier Contributions:
I came through traveling north on 10/13/2013 at mid-tide following the Magenta Line as usual. No problem. Saw 60′ between Stm 690 and R32 dropping to 16′ just past R32. James H. Newsome Contributing Writer ‘“ Southwinds Magazine s/v Roma ‘“ Coastal Cruising With Hugh & Suze
Well, we know that r32 is off station. It is actually north east of the charted position and located on the edge of the shoal that goes bare at mllw; so any vessel with 5’ or more draft can be in trouble. It’s a money maker for Sea Tow. The troubling issue is why the course line is drawn incorrectly to the west of that buoy but actually provides a guide thru safe water? Did NOAA know it’s off station and just drew the line incorrectly to give us a hint? Interestingly, if you look at a chart that’s about 10 years old ; you will see the course line is drawn on the correct side!. When a person is piloting the sound for the first time; what should they believe; the buoy or the course line? That could be an interesting debate between husband and wife and/or Captain and owner! I didn’t see any notices to mariners about the buoys location. Pete
Here is what I am guessing, but do not know without some further research. The R32 may now be positioned as a red-on-right marker for those returning from the ocean via the inlet, therefore they want you to leave it to starboard when inbound from the ocean, but in reality you need to leave it to port when headed south on the ICW. This would mean in addition to its red color it should have a fluorescent yellow square on it indicating that it is considered a port-side beacon for the ICW (when southbound). Though according to the most current Light List, those markings are not the case so I may be wrong in this guess. Or, you could be right in that the buoy is simply off station. I will try to find out more and get back to you. John Kettlewell
Claiborne: Take a look at the following messages with regard to R32 in St. Andrew’s Sound. For some reason the magenta line on the chart is on the wrong side of the buoy and has been for years, but this fellow says that now the R32 is on the edge of the shoal to the NE and if for some reason you do leave it to starboard when southbound it will put you aground. Do you have any information on the area you can share? John Kettlewell
And, as usual, the cruising community is responding by sharing useful information! There just aren’t any better folk than cruisers!
Between 2009 and 2011, my wife and I made 4 transits of the sound on our sailboat, which draws 5 ft.. Our last was north bound to NJ in late March 2011. We were traveling with another boat and followed him through. We both treated Red “32” as an AICW bouy and passed close to port, because of the narrow channel. I always monitor closelly my nav instruments and and don’t rememmber the exact depth, but I am sure it was double digits. Everything seemed routine and no different than previous transits. Red ” 32 ” appeared to be in its usual position. As far as the magenta line is concerned, it is not unusual to see it out of place. I would add that the sound and behind Jeckel Island are some of the more challenging parts of the waterway and have my respect and full concentration. I remember the crossing well, because the wind was from the SE and blowing around 18 to 20kn kicking up quite a sea. I felt like I was in a washing machine. John and Honey Funston Hielan’ Lass II
All Sailors We passed thru this area July 23 2012 bound for our home port of St Augustine. Our observations were : First , R32 was east and somewhat north of our chartplotter position Second , It was half flood tide and depth sounder showed 6 feet on that side ( we left it to starboard per ICW southbound ) Third , G31A was nowhere in sight We have had several nasty storms along this coast in June ( Berrell ) and in July ( Debbie ) and others without names. Notices have been posted to be watchful for missing marks, etc. Our sailboat,Santana, draws 3 feet 8 inches which is becoming desireable around here Safe sailing to all. Captains Matt and Margaret PS On the same trip, we encountered 2 , yes 2, funnel clouds in the St Simons/ Brunswick inlet on July 19 and turned around and went back out to sea. They were not forecast!
We passed St.Andrew Sound red 32 northbound in April this year and kept it close to port as we made the turn. We draw 5 feet and depths were not a problem. The breakers to the northeast were very obvious, very visible. The mark may have shifted since then as there have been two TS’s that have blown through this area in late spring/early summer. Steve and Sheila Kamp S/V Carolina
We transited this area last spring and twice last year. We always pass on the southwest side of R32 approximately where the magenta line shows on your chart. We have been skeptical of the channel between G31 and R32 for a years. Walter and Ellen Solomons M/V Rachel
In January of this year (2012) we were headed south and kept R32 on the Starboard side, on our return trip in April we kept it to port. We draw 5 feet and had no problem. We did stay close to the mark both times. We do not have a chart plotter, and had a 10 + year old chartbook so gave no thought of passing R32 on the `wrong side.’ If I remember correctly, it does have an ICW yellow triangle on it. John and Georgie Jackson
Passed through here the 6th of May and did pass to the West side of `32’³ as I always do having a draft of 3′. I do this as it allows for a more gradual turn and I never see less than 10′ and this is not overly close to the mark. Has anyone reached out to the local towing services or the USCG for their input??? Donovan (EOS, TC-44)
Jim Reed's tracks
We passed this area on 4/16 going north and got very confused and concerned about the water depth. About 6 ft. I believe we took R32 port side on the way back whereas we might have cut it going south. I have my fairly detailed track files for the trips if they are desirable but they do not show the depths recorded. Jim Reed
We transit this route several times a year. Last transit was June of this year heading north to Brunswick. We have a full keel 6ft draft sailing vessel and usually time our passage close to high tide due to transiting Jekyll Creek. We always pass R32 on the east side of the buoy as the CG stated (the Magenta Line is incorrect in the turn). It is a tight turn and particular attention should be paid to the alignment of G 31A and G 31 as you round R 32 keeping it to port (heading north). It is a little unnerving due to the quick depth change (deep to shallow) but there was at least 15 ft of water at high tide in June. Pretty much the same for the past 3 years. Hope this helps. Capt. Jesse Price s/v Wind Dust
December 18, 2013. Note the Local Advice! Passed 32 today. Steered a course from 31 to 32 heading south and passed about 100 ft on the wrong side of 32. Minimum depth at 32 was 15.8 ft. With tide at 6.1 ft over mlw. Locals at marina also advised passing on the wrong side. Terry, Orient Moon
Captain Reeves comments are in response to earlier postings on shoaling waters, such as Little Mud River: /?p=128659, and many other such reports. ARGUS is a great tool in those areas already documented to be shoaling, as well as those where a captain might suspect a shift in the channel.
If the prudent navigator compares the new ARGUS soundings on all problem areas, there is a clear path to take and it is not the red line. I like the ARGUS soundings, because I can zoom in and see the depths and where they are. I don’t cruise the world now days, but I do enjoy the ICW on the Georgia Coast and it is nice to have accurate information and lots of different views. I do hope cruisers can continue to enjoy the ICW by using the excellent resources here and pay attention to their charts, depth sounders and common sense. Sonny Reeves, Jekyll Island
As a long time fan of Argus, we have had the system installed on Beach House for the last year as we cruise. We are happy to contribute to the database and find this an invaluable tool for boaters. Thanks for making the information available on Cruiser’s Net. Chuck and Susan, Trawler beach House
ARGUS Readings through Little Mud River - Click for Chartview
On any SSECN chartview, simply click the ARGUS box at the top of the screen to bring up the ARGUS symbols.
The shallow waters north and west of marker #24 are not, AND NEVER WILL BE, an SSECN recommended anchorage, but as Captain Reeves observes and documents, they are getting a lot of use. Given the narrow, constantly shifting channel that barges must navigate in Jekyll Creek, cruisers choosing to anchor north of marker #24 will be wise to put out a short scope and to stay well west of marker #24. Our thanks to Captain Reeves, from Jekyll Harbor Marina – A SALTY SOUTHEAST SPONSOR! – for pointing out this potential hazard. The Anchorage at Red 24 south of Jekyll Harbor Marina is getting a lot of use this season. My concern is when boats anchor to the east of the marker R24 and are in the ICW. You know we have a lot of BIG barge traffic on this part of the ICW. I am attaching pictures from last night that show a boat anchored in the ICW east of the marker. One boat did not have an anchor light. We had a boat hit 2 years ago by a barge, just the corner! The owner was saved but lost his boat. He was anchored near the public dock east of R24. Cruisers are welcome to anchor and visit the Marina in their dingy for shore access or to use the public dock. Of course they are always welcome at the Marina. Call Tow Boat US or the Marina for local knowledge. Stop by and visit with us we will be in The Office. Sonny Reeves
Jekyll Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, lies along the easterly banks of the AICW’s passage through Jekyll Creek, immediately south of the 65-foot fixed bridge. The report below is from our good friend, Sonny Reeves, who keeps us updated on all things Jekyll. All Waterway cruisers, north or southbound, will pass Jekyll Harbor Marina and Jekyll Creek has been a Problem Stretch for some time.
Jekyll Creek - Click for Chartview
Cruisers who navigate through Georgia already know that the Waterway’s trek through Jekyll Creek is one of the real “problem stretches” between Little Mud River and the Georgia – Florida state line. And, the shallowest spot is found abeam of marker #19.
Hi Larry, Here is an update for the creek and Marina at Jekyll Harbor. Sunsets have been very nice and the weather has been cool with some warm days. We have had a lot of transients and right now the face dock is full with all inside slips full. Many leave today to start their journey South.
Jekyll Harbor Marina Face Dock
We heard a distress call on 16 and the Coast Guard responded but no one replied. Some one hit the dsc switch on their radio after the call but the CG could not trace it because the device was not registered. St. Andrews Sound to the South can be quite rough in bad weather. Call the Marina or Tow Boat for local knowledge when in doubt. Many boats are anchoring in the creek near R24 get real close to the ICW channel. One was clearly in the channel last week. This is a dangerous place to anchor if you are not out of the channel. See pictures of the barge attached. Several of these barges come through at varying times.
AICW Tug Passing Jekyll Harbor Marina
Specs for Sun Commander http://www.tugboatinformation.com/tug.cfm?id=3516 Note that the barge is drawing very little unloaded, but the Tug “Sun Commander is a 62 ft boat with an 8 ft draft. The tug Captains know the creek and stay in the channel not necessarily on the “Line” I took the pictures of Sun Commander at around 8:15 Note the attached tide chart showing the depths when the Sun Commander went through the creek. http://www.tides4fishing.com/us/georgia/jekyll-island-marina-jekyll-creek Hope this helps, Sonny The Office Jekyll Island Georgia 31527
Morningstar Marina at Golden Isles - Click for Chartview
Morning Star Golden Isles Marina is located on the Frederica River, between Lanier and St. Simons Islands, south of the charted 9 foot bridge. Depart northward from the Waterway south of ICW marker #247 and Frederica River marker #1. While the Frederica River has good depths north of the marina, access from the Waterway north is not possible because of the fixed 9ft clearance bridge.
We stayed over the windy and rainy 2013 Thanksgiving weekend at this pleasant and well maintained marina. There were some challenges getting 30 amp electric service since the whole facility is wired 50 amp and there were no splitters available, but the dockmaster did his best and we were able to find a spot on the rack & stack dock with electric we could use. It was a very friendly crowd there, and the daily two for one happy hour at the onsite lounge was the place to meet up. Nice showers and other shoreside amenities, our only quibble was that the free morning paper and muffins never materialized. Jonathan Gorham
Our good friend, Sonny Reeves, who keeps us posted on all things Jekyll, sends these pictures from Jekyll Island beach where a shrimp boat has gone aground, probably during those recent, on-shore high winds. We can only hope that this never happens to any of you!
Our good friends, and SSECN strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, founders and owners of “On The Water ChartGuides” (http://www.onthewaterchartguides.com/), give us an updated, graphic report below, relaying what they discovered as they navigated through the AICW – Little Mud River Problem Stretch on 11/20/13! Note that the Doyle’s soundings were taken near mid-tide, so to calculate MLW depths, you must subtract 4.8 feet from their figures. Applying this correction, Diana and Mark noted multiple MLW corrected 4-foot soundings along this perennial AICW Problem stretch. And, as Mark and Diana note, there are almost certainly even shallower spots. Our cruising duo are also quite right in noting that, “the reigning champion of this year’s ICW Trouble Spots is Georgia’s Little Mud River.” I might also add that very dubious distinction has been true of Little Mud River for many years now. If and until this AICW Problem Stretch is fully dredged, I would be hesitant to navigate anything bigger than a canoe through this portion of the Waterway at low tide!
Hi Claiborne, As I’m sure you’ll agree, the reigning champion of this year’s ICW Trouble Spots is Georgia’s Little Mud River. With depths as low as 4 FEET MLLW, Diana and I wanted SSECN readers to have this printable graphic of our November 20th survey report and depth-annotated track: Best wishes on this Thanksgiving holiday, Captains Mark & Diana Doyle m/v Semi-Local http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
The alternate route discussed below by Captain Byron is the Umbrella Cut Route which takes you northbound from Mile 696 in Cumberland River through Floyd Creek, across the Satilla River and into the Little Satilla to rejoin the AICW at Mile 686 in Jekyll Sound. This is often considered the route of choice when the primary Waterway route through St. Andrew Sound is kicking up. If southbound, do NOT confuse Umbrella Cut with Umbrella Creek where severe shoaling has occurred.
11/25/13 Six years ago when we were headed south we used the Umbrella Cut successfully to avoid crossing St. Andrews Sound when the seas were running high. This year the winds were 20 knots from the northeast and we wanted to try it again but were surprised that there was no recent info. We checked with locals and decided to try it on a mid and rising tide. We found it is still a viable alternative. We timed our approach for 2 1/2 hours before high tide. Our boat is a 34 foot trawler with a 4 ft draft. There was a strong following sea and as we made the turn into the cut we were pushed out of the channel where we saw 7 ft. That gave us pause but we kept going and found nothing less than 9 or 10 all the way through. We stayed midchannel away from the markers and kept to the outside on unmarked curves. We transited the alternative route all the way through Fields Creek without incident. As we exited and rejoined the ICW shortly behind us came a 45 foot boat out of the channel as well. I hope this observation is helpful. Connie Bryon
We also took the umbrella cut October 14, 2012 due to seas being up. We went through at low tide and had only 1 depth alarm at 3 feet which I cleared immediately and the depth went back to 6 feet. Most of the passage we had depths of 5 to 8 feet. We stayed in the middle of the waterway when there were no markers. I was concerned about using the cut with the horror stories out there. We stoped at Jekyll Harbor Marina to ask the locals about the cut. They said they use it all the time and I would have no problem. We also had a 40+ foot sport fishing boat follow us through at low tide. Richard Clagett
Thank you all for the great post up, as we say on the big river. Am planning on going north on the AICW this coming spring and it has been very helpful hearing from light draft vessel operators! Capt. Jerry Robbins
Our good friends, and SSECN strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, founders and owners of “On The Water ChartGuides” (http://www.onthewaterchartguides.com/), give us an updated, graphic report below, relaying what they discovered as they navigated through the AICW Hell Gate Problem Stretch on 11/20/13! Note that the Doyle’s soundings were taken near high tide, so to calculate MLW depths, you must subtract 7.8 feet from their figures. Applying this correction, Diana and Mark noted “multiple soundings around 5 feet at MLLW, southward toward R90.” PERHAPS THE MOST USEFUL PART OF THE DOYLE’S REPORT, IS THEIR DISCOVERY OF A NEW, UNCHARTED MARKER, #90, LOCATED BETWEEN CHARTED MARKERS #89 AND #91! Be sure to observe the new #90 marker as you cruise through! Incidentally, Diana and Mark have recently published a new edition of their immensely popular “ICW CruiseGuide.” Click on the book graphic to the above left for more details, and to place an order!
Hi Claiborne, For those transiting Georgia, Hell Gate has a new, uncharted navaid that should help passage through the shallower sections of this perennial ICW Trouble Spot. I’ve attached a printable high-resolution file of our November 20th survey report and depth-annotated track. Hopefully, SSECN readers cruising this area will find the report useful. Best and hope to see some of the Cruisers’ Net gang at this year’s St. Marys Cruisers Thanksgiving! Captains Mark & Diana Doyle m/v Semi-Local http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Just transited Hell’s Gate on 11DEC2013. Delivery of 58′ power vessel with 5’4’³ draft. Passed through at 0620, with tide at approx +2.2. Minimum depth noted was approx. 2.5′ under under running gear. Captain Rob Welling
According to a spokesperson at the Delegal Creek Marina, their entrance channel MLW depths are 3 ft, with a tidal range of 8-9 ft, so mid to high tide would be the best time to enter Delegal Creek. Once in the creek, soundings improve, but clearly this marina’s entrance depths are an issue if your vessel draws more than 3 ft. Delegal Creek Marina’s entrance passage lies northeast of AICW marker #86. just north of Hell Gate.
Sanctuary and crew spent a couple of days at Delegal Creek Marina from 11/6 – 11/9/2013. The entrance to Delegal Creek from the Vernon River/Ossabaw Sound IS NOT correctly drawn on the chart (US5GA24M) of the area; the land features have changed since the chart was produced. Cruisers can download a “local knowledge” satellite view chart from the marina website, or contact Billy, the dockmaster at Delegal Marina, for local knowledge. The region has a 6′ – 7′ tidal range, larger during celestial periods. Sanctuary and crew entered Delegal Creek about 1 hr after celestial low tide (16h00, 11/6/2013), which wound up being equivalent to MLLW on our tide almanac. There is only one short stretch of shallow water on the entire route from the Vernon River to the marina. For about 20 – 30 yds immediately upstream of G’3′ and R’4′, we saw as little as 4.9 ft. at MLLW. Except for that stretch, water depths in Delegal Creek are not a concern. Minimum depths in marina slips are 6′ all the way against the inner wall. Depths at the fuel dock and face docks exceed 20 ft. The facility is very well protected, has floating docks, wi-fi, restrooms, showers and laundry. Broadband WLAN coverage is 4 bars and fast. Facilities are “newish,” well maintained and clean. Marina guests can get a “pass” from the dockmaster that allows access to all of the member-only clubs, including the several golf courses, in the Landings community. There is a small commercial center that has banks, ATMs, a food market, shoppes and restaurants. Golf carts are available for touring the Landings communities and Skidaway Island. Billy makes every effort to help visitors. This is an excellent stop. Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, Monk 36
When we were there July 1, I created a JPG graphic to show the route in. I sent it to the dockmaster so they could us it on their web site to help boaters feel more comfortable about the entrance. Well since reading your post, I looked on their web site and now they have a fancy graphic of GOOGLE MAPS view showing the approach. It’s a PDF file that can be seen if you click on either of the following hyperlinks: Delegal Creek Approach Chart
We also found this marina to be very CUSTOMER SERVICE focused. We arrived just minutes before a major thunderstorm. Needed to get milk and bread but didn’t want to take the golf cart into town because of the imminent storm. The girl working the dock actually knocked on our boat and offered to go to the store for us ! We were so grateful ! Ralph Yost
Jekyll Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, lies along the easterly banks of the AICW’s passage through Jekyll Creek, immediately south of the 65-foot fixed bridge.
Every cruiser going north or south along the Georgia ICW will pass Jekyll Harbor Marina, just below the bridge to Jekyll Island at AICW mile 684. There is always a concern about currents or water depth as I pass this marina so I know looking over a marina is the last thing I want to do; I just want to get safely out of the area. Recently things were different and I needed a place to weather out a storm near St Andrews Sound and called the folks at Jekyll Harbor. They couldn’t have been more accommodating in every way possible. Not only did they do a great job of snatching me off the waterway in strong currents, they arranged a van to take several of us to dinner over at the Club that night. Their dock prices are reasonable and the staff is most helpful. The General Manager, Scott Todd, has even offered that if 6 or more boats come in together, he will personally cook supper for everyone. Make a note of that offer for the Spring migration northward. Stay safe, Tom
We too stopped at Jekyll Harbor on our way to Charleston last month. I was pleasantly surprised at the service and the shuttle available. We didn’t have any issues with the strong current because they put us on the outside of the lay along dock. I also recommend this as a convenient stop either north in the spring or south in the fall. Bill Borchet
This new Jekyll Island bike trail, described below, just adds another to the many reasons to stop at this historic and quite lovely isle. Jekyll Harbor Marina lies along the easterly banks of the AICW’s passage through Jekyll Creek, immediately south of the 65-foot fixed bridge. These good folks are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR. Thanks to Captain Crafton for this delightful report and for an earlier report on the bike trail, see /?p=113962
Yesterday, while taking the tour of the island along the new path that connects Jekyll Harbor Marina to the historic district and beyond without having to be on the roadway, we stopped at a small tidal creek and were delighted to see manatees feeding on the marsh grass. Manatees visit Georgia from April through October. We normally are here after that so we had not seen them in this location before. But what a sight: a baby and 2-3 adults munching away on the grass leaning out over the water. The new pathway traverses a marsh area with stunning views of the environs. While staying at the Jekyll Harbor marina, transients may borrow their bikes or walk the path to the historic center. It’s a mile + or -. Georgia DNR would appreciate a call and/or photos of any manatees or sea turtles you may see while transiting this area Martha Crafton Sandpiper
Whenever I get together with a group of cruisers interested in exploring Georgia’s coastal waters, the topic always seems to arise about whether it’s better to berth at one of the several transient friendly marinas in Thunderbolt, GA, and then take a taxi into the Savannah Historic District, or cruise upstream to Savannah, and spend some time at SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Savannah Hyatt Docks, or one of the other downtown Savannah facilities. A part of these discussions the possibility is almost always raised at to whether your vessel will be jostled by the wake of a passing freighter or other ocean going vessel. Happily, Captain Tom reports below that he did not encounter any such problems during his visit.
For years, I have read how rough the wakes are on the Savannah River, right downtown; but pleaded with myself to give it a personal try. It was actually fine. The big freighters which pass on average once an hour do not kick up the water that much, the tugs and ferries some more but still not uncomfortable. The only major wake maker was a Coast Guard vessel making a non-emergency run so fast that he was sending water over the top of his boat too. Savannah has so much to offer in history and culinary delight. Patsy and I have not had so much excellent Southern cooking in our memory, even the grits were always done properly. A history buff could stay on the River forever and still learn new things. Then, there is the River itself. TV could not hold a candle to the entertainment of seeing the River activity with so many boats coming and going or people just walking the river side. The dockage rates are high but well worth the experience. Include Savannah in your cruising plans. Stay safe, Tom
We are on the Savannah River docks right now. We always stop here going N and S. Take the visitors center elevator to town level and walk up Bull St. You see all the best squares of the town. It is not too bad wake wise. Huge container ships come and go all night. Last night though I awoke to a very loud blast that in my sleep sounded like my alarm clock. It was a freighters horn which lasted over a minute right outside the boat. At least on this stop the trumpet player looking for tips, who repeated `the Saints ‘ incessantly and badly played, was missing. It’s all part of the experience. Greg Han
I, too recommend a trip up the river to Savannah. Most of the time you are fine, but the occasional heavy wake does mean you should take some extra care tieing up and put out your biggest fenders. You are right in the middle of Savannah, so it is great for enjoying the restaurants, strolling, and the night life. It is one of the most walkable cities on the ICW, though there is no large grocery store nearby’“enjoy the many great eateries. One night I heard a loud saxophone playing and stuck my head out of the hatch to find out we were the scenic backdrop for a live musician performing before a large crowd. John Kettlewell
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