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    • Jekyll Island Bike Trail, Jekyll Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 684.5

      Jekyll Harbor Marina - Click for Chartview

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatThis new bike trail just adds another to the many reasons to stop at Jekyll Island. 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 and and the marina is home to our good friend, Sonny Reeves, who keeps us posted on all things Jekyll!

      Hi Capt, The bike trail is set to open soon and will run all the way to Jekyll Harbor Marina. I rode beach trail, circled back thru the old village and then rode the new trail across the marsh this morning at dawn and it is great. I saw deer, raccoon and alligators. Jekyll Harbor Marina has free loaner bikes for all cruisers and guest. Come ride over 25 miles of island trails.
      Sonny Reeves

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Bike Trail - Look for the Deer

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    • Chartplotter and Charting Issues at Cumberland Dividings AICW Problem Stretch, (Statute Mile 704)

      Cumberland Dividings - Click for Chartview

      Cumberland Dividings, just north of where the AICW intersects the southerly reaches of the Brickhill River, has multiple problems. First, some charts and chartplotters show the magenta fairway line running on the western side of the red markers in this area. Those who blindly follow this erroneous magenta line will run aground every time. Also, and perhaps even worse, the Waterway is shoaling badly along its western flank, north of marker #63.

      AICW MM704 Cumberland Dividings Problem
      We transited this area northbound this afternoon. I was watching a Garmin chartplotter (new 2011) and the newest NOAA raster chart displaying on a laptop at the lower steering station sent to my Nexus via a VPN connection. Even the newest NOAA raster chart shows the magenta line to the west of the red daymarks (the real channel is to the east side of the daymarks). The daymarks are properly marked with the ICW triangle. A sailboat following us failed to honor the red daymarks – fortunately they stayed very close to the red (even though they were was leaving them on his starboard side) and made it through. The most current NOAA ENC chart has the correct course passing over dry land based on our track.
      This same problem has existed since at least 2005 or so. How long does it take NOAA to correct a chart?

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Cumberland Dividings

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Bumpy Passage through Jekyll Creek, AICW Statute Mile 683

      Jekyll Creek – Click for Chartview

      There has been much discussion on depths through Jekyll Creek which has been a perennial AICW Problem Stretch, as Capt. Burns conveys below. We strongly suggest that cruisers time their passage of Jekyll Creek for mid to high tide!

      Issues reported here [on the Jekyll Creek AICW stretch] with shallow water just north of the Jekyll Island bridge are true. We departed near low tide and expected to be OK with our 4.5′ draft. We did make it through but bumped several times starting just south of Marker 19″ .
      Harry Burns
      S/V Two for the Roads

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Jekyll Creek

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage and Sea Camp Dock (Statute Mile 711.5)

       On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 711.5 ‘“ one of our favorite side trips along the southern Georgia portion of the AICW is to leave the water at marker #34, and cruise up the Cumberland Island channel, and anchor opposite the `Sea Camp Dock.’ Anyone taken this trip lately? Did you dinghy ashore? Did you walk across to the ocean side and see the rich, maritime forests?

      Responses follow:

      We anchored in 14 feet of water close to low tide. Dingyed to shore and tide up. We walked over to the ocean and then along the parrell trails. It is still beautiful. Consider a life time National Park pass if over 62. It covers the fee. We did not have time go to the museum.
      Jack Pholeric

      We spent a night at this anchorage. We went up the channel past the Park Services dock and opposite the next private dock further north. We anchored in firm mud of 8 ft. It was peaceful and quiet. The next morning we dinghied over to the Park Services dock and walked across the island to the beach. The oak tree forest was spectacular. We were there at 9:00 am and had the entire beach as far north or south as we could see all to ourselves. It was beautiful. We walked the beach south to the path that takes you to the ruins of the Carniege home. After walking the grounds we walked back north on the central road back to our dinghy. It was a pleasant morning and well worth the
      trip.
      Marc and Shelley Colby
      M/V Rock Chalk
      Endeavour 44 Trawlercat

      Facebook album of hike on Cumberland Island:
      https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2182431100754.84396.1846284215&type=1&l=aa93cdd233
      Anchored near Sea Camp dock, walked across the island. Beaches of incredible scale and apparent remoteness. Magnificent dunes at the southern end of the island. We hardly too a single step that was not on top of the hoofprints of unshod wild horses and saw several.
      Roger Long
      S/V Strider

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage

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    • St. Marys Village and Langs Marina (near Statute Mile 712)

      On 4/22/13, as part of NE Floria – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 712 ‘“ Who has cruised up St. Marys River to the village of the same name? Did you dock at Langs Marina? If so, please describe your experiences at this facility. Did you find good dining ashore in downtown St. Marys? If so, please give us some dining recommendations.

      Responses follow:

      This is a very basic marina.No frills, poor head facilities, some power pedestals are not working, docks are dirty but substantial.
      Nate Wilson the dock master does the best he can with what he has to work with. A very nice and accommodating guy and willing to do what he can to make your stay pleasant.
      Given a choice we would not stay there but we need to as we have family in the area and stop once or twice a year. They do get full in the fall and reservations are discouraged at any time.
      Jim & Marge Fuller

      We were in St. Mary’s at the end of Jan. We always stay at Lang’s which has sturdy floating concrete docks. Play the tides for easier docking in strong current but no trouble getting on face docks at Lang’s East. Some of the electric pedestals are broken and my feet never touch the floor in the bathroom, but the price is very reasonable. Everyone is friendly and the town is pleasant.
      Lang’s Restaurant is a great place to dine. Don’t miss the all you can eat shrimp.
      Steve Young
      SV CrossRoads

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Langs Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Langs Marina

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    • Northern Brickhill Anchorage (Statute Mile 696)

      On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      Statute Mile 704 ‘“ has anyone cruised the Brickhill River, which makes into the western shores of Cumberland Island, near marker #63. What depths did you discover at this stream’s southern and/or northern intersections with the Waterway? Did you find good or not so good anchorage on Brickhill River?

      Responses follow:

      Anchored the night of 4/14/13 in northern end, entering between #40 and #41. Two boats anchored about a mile upstream near the wreckage noted. Very stormy night with winds of 30-40 kns. Both kept swinging 180 degrees for about 2 hours. Disconcerting but both held with no problems. Have previously anchored around the big bend in 15′ and had good night in fair weather. Will use this river again.
      s/v Skye

      We did the entire river and depths are still as reported, including entering the river. However, one must use common sense as they cruise the river as there are shallow spots in obvious places (stay on outside of turns, etc). Beautiful run and anchorages.
      John Winter

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Northern Brickhill Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Northern Brickhill Anchorage

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    • Jekyll Harbor Marina (Statute Mile 684.5)

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatOn 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, I posed the following question:

      25. Statute Mile 684.5 ‘“ Did you spend a night or two at Jekyll Harbor Marina, immediately south of the Jekyll Island Bridge? What were your experiences at this facility? Did you dine ashore at SeaJays? How did you find the bill of fare?

      Responses follow:

      Still a great stop and still has courtesy car. Price could be cheaper, but given they have a pool, car, etc, then the price is ok. Restaurant is still there and good. Water depths thru Jekyll Creek still shallow, but we see 5′ draft boats going thru threre at dead low tide. We did it at dead low tide in our 4′ draft and were nervous, but did fine (saw nothing less than 5′)
      John Winter

      We spent a few nights at this marina on our way south earlier this year. The floating dock is easy to tie to, the facilities are clean, and the historic district is a short walk away. There are several liveaboards at this marina, and they are very outgoing, usually inviting transients to one of their many cookouts. We think that the food at SeaJays is not as good as it has been in years past, but they have a great happy hour every day, which we enjoyed.
      Captain Mary
      Intermezzo

      In spring of 2010 we stayed two nights at Jekyll Island Marina. Fine place. We had a GREAT dinner at the Jekyll Island Club. Have not eaten at sea-Jays.
      Terry Bieker

      Claiborne,
      In response to your request for NE FL/Ga wish list items – here is Jekyll Harbor Marina:
      We spent two nights at Jekyll Harbor Marina starting on March 30, 2013 as part of our journey home from Marathon to VA on our 37′ sailing vessel. We were tied up on the face dock directly parallel to the waterway. Entry for tie was easy into the current with good help from skilled and friendly staff. Depth may be a problem here for some. We draw only 4.5′ and had no issues on the face dock. However, we did see as low as 5.8′ while tied up and another sailing vessel that also draws 4.5′ in a slip at a right angle to the face dock closer to shore and across from us told me they sit in the mud during many lows. However, this is their third year here as their home port and they “love the place”.
      There is clearly much to love here. We specifically stopped here because our 6 year old grandson was onboard for a four day visit. Don’t miss the Jekyll Island Club in the historic district for some great food, stop at the sea turtle hospital, use the many miles of excellent biking and walking trails for access all over the island. Driftwood beach on the north end is a special spot at low to mid-tide with massive exposed trees blown over that must be explored by kids and adults. There are guided 3 hour kayak tours operated from the Univ. of GA marine site south of the marina that we did not do, but heard good things about.
      Issues reported here with shallow water just north of the Jekyll Island bridge are true. We departed near low tide and expected to be OK with our 4.5′ draft. We did make it through but bumped several times starting just south of Marker 19″ .
      Harry Burns
      S/V Two for the Roads

      Have stopped there many times. Four (4) days early 2013. Everything is good about this marina. What ever your needs, they can accommodate. Wife needed medical attention from a prior finger injury, no problem. Gave us their vehicle to travel to a Medical Facility in Brunswick, Ga. Also, very friendly and helpful live a boards.
      Raymond W. Smith
      “Fire Dog”

      We stayed at Jekyll Harbor marina for one night in December 2012. It’s still a nice place–low key and very friendly.
      Harriet Hardy
      sv Moondance

      We docked at Jekyll Harbor a few days ago, as usual the staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. This can be a challenge when the current is running strong and the staff knows exactly what you should do if you have any doubts. Dinner at SeaJays was good. The night we were there the crowd was much greater then they had anticipated and they only had one wait staff and she was literally running to keep up. She did a great job and no one was upset with a little extra wait time. Prices were good and the food was great. Could have used a couple more shrimp in the shrimps and grits but it was great.
      John Holmes

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

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    • Brickhill River Southern Anchorage (Statute Mile 704)

      On 4/22/13, as part of a NE Florida – Georgia Wish List, we posed the following question:

      22. Statute Mile 704 ‘“ has anyone cruised the Brickhill River, which makes into the western shores of Cumberland Island, near marker #63. What depths did you discover at this stream’s southern and/or northern intersections with the Waterway? Did you find good or not so good anchorage on Brickhill River?

      Responses follow:

      It has been 2 yrs. ago, but I did enter at this marker unfortunately. When entering in center the water depth was good; stayed in center and water dropped out to 5 ft. and less and yes I went aground; All charts indicated 14 ft. of water at MLLW, but obviously very incorrect; it took Boat U.S. over 2 hrs. to get me off; deeper water was actually almost on Northern shore ‘“ 10 ft. Would not go in here again not trusting what is correct with charting etc.
      Pat Kenefick

      We did the entire river and depths are still as reported, including entering the river. However, one must use common sense as they cruise the river as there are shallow spots in obvious places (stay on outside of turns, etc). Beautiful run and anchorages.
      John Winter

      We recently very much enjoyed a night at the south end of the Brickhill River and did visit Plum Orchard. We entered the river from the south and after passing the shoaling to the west at the opening found 20+ feet around the bend to the protected water. Beyond the bend it shallows to about 10 – 12 feet at low tide. This is a most enjoyable anchorage protected from the wind, gentle tidal flows, beautiful scenery and dingy access to the island. While at the dock, you need to be mindful that ferry’s and supply boats do tie up here and make sure you are not in their way. There is a $4/person “on your honor” box at the dock along with envelopes and a pen.
      To summarize, it is one of the best anchorages on our recent trip from N. Myrtle Beach to Fernandina. The persistent winds had made other anchorages less comfortable. Our pet on board insists on trips to shore and the protection along with the accessibility made this one stand out.
      Rod Busbee

      Stayed here 4 17 13 easy in and out. Goood depths, not much wind protection , Good holding.
      Greg and Donna
      on Lady in Red.

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Brickhill River Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Brickhill River Anchorage

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    • Report from Jekyll Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 684.5

      Jekyll Harbor Marina - Click for Chartview

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatJekyll 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, and one heck of a friendly stop!

      Some great things going for this place: ultra clean showers, wifi that actually works at the docks, courtesy car and loaner bikes. Just make sure you budget for the extra charges on dockage. Bravo, Scotty, for great service.
      We are currently staying here at Jekyll Harbor Marina on our journey back north and wanted to let cruisers know that they are charging for every foot your boat, dinghy, davits, anchor overhang, etc. take up on their face dock. We are a 37 ft. sail and they wanted to charge us for 49 ft. We negotiated them down to 42 ft.

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

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    • Derelict Adrift near Jekyll Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 684.5


      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the Heat

      Derelict Vessel - Click for Chartview

      The downstream flow of the creek west of Jekyll Harbor is eastward toward the Waterway and, should the derelict drift out of the creek, it could become a hazard to Waterway navigation. Capt. Sonny will keep us updated on the vessel’s position.

      Cruising News:
      There is a small sailboat in the unnamed creek (to the west of) across from the Jekyll Harbor Marina. It’s last position was approximately 31 02.75 N 081 25.859W. The top of the boat shows at low tide and the boat has moved around somewhat since first spotted. There is no mast. this boat is of no danger to the ICW traffic at this time.
      Sonny

      Derelict

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Derelict Vessel

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

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    • St. Marys, Georgia READY To Greet Cruisers

      St. Marys, Georgia is a beautiful, charming village, with also doubles as the southernmost port of call on the Georgia coastline. There is a small city dock that can be used for dinghying ashore, and Langs Marina, located in the heart of downtown St. Marys, offers transient dockage, though, it must be noted, they also have some of the scuzziest showers along the AICW.
      All the town dockage is within easy walking distance of multiple GOOD dining attractions, particularly Langs Restaurant, and many historic sights, including unforgettable Orange Hall.
      It’s a pleasant cruise of several miles off the AICW, up St. Marys River (which acts as the coastal state line between Georgia and Florida), to the town waterfront. It’s well worth your time to make this journey!
      We were surprised yesterday, to see the following message on another nautical mailing list:

      Orange Hall - St. Marys

      Take St. Marys, GA off your favorites list. They got pretty beat up by Sandy last fall and haven’t repaired the damage.

      Well, that was a surprise to us, so first thing this morning we were on the telephone to the good people at the St. Marys Visitor’s Center, and confirmed that ALL damage has now been REPAIRED, and the town is ready and EAGER to greet the cruising community.

      And, several fellow cruisers have already chimed in with similar info:

      St. Marys is a wonderful stop, with several very good restaurants, the submarine museum, a park along the river, and many many homes and churches on the National Historic Register, all within walking distance. The marina has floating docks which are older but fine and very safe, and I saw no evidence of any hurricane damage.
      Larry and Anne
      Great Laker

      Sandy caused no damage to St Marys, Ga. We are just fine. Come see us—Azaleas have just finished blooming and warm temps are on the way.
      Mike
      S/V Makai

      We were in St Mary’s a few days after Sandy made landfall in NJ and observed no damage whatsoever.
      Mark and Bev MacMahon
      Calypso

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Langs Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Langs Marina

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    • Good Words for Jekyll Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 684.5

      Jekyll Harbor Marina - Click for Chartview

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatJekyll 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, and one heck of a friendly stop!

      Cruising News:
      It’s about time I added my two cents’ worth. We began stopping at the Jekyll Harbor Marina in 1999. Fast forward 10 years, and we began to leave our boat here on a permanent basis. We don’t get to spend as much time on our boat as we would like, but this place just keeps getting better. Great dockmates, a customer-friendly new manager, the best potlucks ever and a whole island to explore. The JIA is aggressively making improvements with miles of new bicycle paths, new convention center. The landscaping of walkways and bike paths is beautiful. So, I say in my best Hoosier accent, `Y’all come!’
      M/S Sandpiper

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

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    • Report from Umbrella Creek Anchorage, off the AICW Statute Mile 687

      There are three recommended anchorages along the course of the Umbrella Creek alternate route. This passage is designed to allow cruisers to avoid often ROUGH St. Andrew Sound.
      Captain Davis’ remarks below refer to the anchorage in Umbrella Creek, west of the marked alternate route.

      We entered from the Jekyll Sound end [Umbrella Creek] . There is a nine foot bar, but deep inside. Both sides are grass so no wind protection. Under settled conditions it makes a good stop.
      Jim Davis

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Alternate Route Anchorages

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Alternate Route Anchorages

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    • On-Site Report – AICW Passage Through Jekyll Creek and Jekyll Harbor Marina, Statute Mile 683

      There has been much discussion recently (see link below) on depths through Jekyll Creek, a perennial AICW Problem Stretch. Thanks to our good friend, Sonny Reeves, who is a full-time resident at Jekyll Harbor Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, we have up-to-date, on-site reports that some are finding usable depths through this stretch. Of course, others report a very different story, so we still strongly suggest that cruisers time their passage of Jekyll Creek for mid to high tide!

      Update on Jekyll Harbor Marina:
      Here is a loaded barge going north, draft 8ft, Tug draft 8 ft going via ICW at Jekyll Harbor Marina. The tide is out low at over 6 ft. going to a low of 7.
      He will pass green 19 by taking center of channel. The 90 ft “Adventurer ” just left the dock headed south. Jekyll Harbor is a great place to be and enjoy for the winter. We caught 3 # of shrimp in 20 mins last night with a cast net a half a mile from the dock.
      Bike ride today saw deer and an alligator. Fishing is great, Reds and Trout are catching! Sunsets are remarkable. The beach is a 1/2 mile bike ride away and almost deserted. We are looking at 70s this weekend.

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Jekyll Creek

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

      Click Here To Read an Earlier Posting on Depths in the AICW/Jekyll Creek

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    • Great Visits to Cumberland Island, Georgia (AICW Statute Mile 711.5)

       Cumberland Island lines the AICW’s eastern flank, in extreme southern Georgia, just north of St. Marys River and the Florida state line. One of the best side trips you will ever make from the Waterway lies north – northeast of marker #34 on the Dungeness Greyfield Channel. Follow the wide passage, and eventually anchor abeam of the “Sea Camp Dock.” Dinghy ashore to tour the island’s spectacular maritime forest, old Carnegie mansions, and some really superb beaches. Follow the link below to learn more about this wonderful anchorage!

      Cumberland Island has always been one of our favorite destinations and anchorages. There is much history, nature and beauty to be enjoyed. Many of our cruising friends just sailed by Cumberland Island on their annual treks up and down the east coast. After convincing them to stop at Cumberland, they stayed 5 days, exploring many areas of the island. They now visit every year.
      Glen and Jill Moore
      DeFever 40* Last Dance*

      We have camped on Cumberland and boated there many times. The last time we took our son, his wife and two granddaughters and our Golden Retriever Midas to the north end ocean side for some fun on the beach.
      Mike

      Click Here To View the Georgia Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Dungeness Greyfield Channel Anchorage

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

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    • VERY Interesting Newspaper Story about Depths on AICW/Jekyll Creek Problem Stretch and Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatThe article below is reprinted from the “Brunswick News” (http://www.thebrunswicknews.com)
      This text makes for VERY INTERESTING reading.
      First, let’s address the issue of depths and dredging at SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Jekyll Harbor Marina (http://www.jekyllharbor.com/). We telephoned this facility and talked with one of the assistant dockmasters on 10/22/12. And, we were told, yes indeed, the permitting to dredge process is going forward, and Jekyll Harbor’s dockage basin will most likely be dredged sometime within the next year.
      The assistant dockmaster went on to add that there are still 6+ MLW depths on the north side slips. The shallow water problem seems to plague the southern wet slips, where, on a low tide, soundings can fall to 4-foot or slightly less. Transients, however, are almost always accommodated on the outer docks, where MLW depths are 10+ feet! So, clearly, Jekyll Harbor Marina can accommodate virtually any size and draft of transient pleasure craft, even before the aforementioned dredging project takes place.
      What is really more interesting, is what is said in the article below about depths on the AICW/Jekyll Creek section of the Waterway. Clearly, there is a real and building problem here, which must be addressed sometime in the future if the AICW is to remain open. All this is, of course, why the SSECN declared Jekyll Creek an AICW Problem Stretch years ago!
      Now, and this is also interesting, the Jekyll Harbor Marina assistant dockmaster we spoke with noted that he had just done some extensive soundings on the channel in question. He discovered that if boats pass marker #19 close aboard, they will keep to good water. He also pointed out that commercial tows are coming through Jekyll Creek all the time by employing this navigational tactic.
      Of course, having extensively sounded the Waterway passage through Jekyll Creek myself, I can tell you that this may be easier said than done on the water. Nevertheless, it is GOOD advice, at least as of October, 2012. Who knows what it will be like in a few months.Also, may I be so bold as to remind the cruising community that we strongly suggest all captains time their passage through Jekyll Creek for mid to high tide.

      Local News
      10/19/2012
      Shoaling problem worsens at Jekyll marina
      By MICHAEL HALLThe Brunswick News
      In the absence of help from the federal government, a marina on Jekyll Island is taking the issue of shoaling along Jekyll Creek in the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway into its own hands. Jekyll Harbor Marina, 1 Harbor Road on Jekyll Island, is seeking a permit from the Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee and the Department of Natural Resources to dredge a 1,000-foot by 150-foot section of the creek directly under its boat slips to deepen the area to 10 feet at low tide. The marina’s general manager, Scott Todd, said the dredging is necessary to maintain a business that relies on large, non-commercial vessels with drafts around 6 feet deep. “The worst spots are 4 or 5 feet at mean low tide,” Todd said. But the creek is not much deeper and the marina’s need to dredge under its dock is a symptom of a larger problem, Todd said. “I wish the dredging was in the creek instead,” Todd said. Popular boating enthusiast websites like Cruisers.net list waterway portions in Glynn County as some of the shallowest on the East Coast. Todd has heard the complaints from customers like Joe Fox and his wife, Joyce Fox, who arrived at the marina for the first time Thursday. The couple’s sailboat, Shoban II, has a keel that requires a draft close to 6 feet. “It gets pretty hairy,” Joe Fox said. “We almost ran aground coming in (Thursday).” It is so shallow that most charts of the waterway do not even attempt to recommend a route through the area, Fox said. “It’s probably the only place where they don’t,” Fox said. And he and his wife would know. The couple, along with their Jack Russell Terrier, Matey, have been traveling the East Coast in their boat since December and are on their way home to Apollo Beach, Fla. It was there where a similar problem arose. The waterway needed dredging, but the Army Corps of Engineers, responsible for waterway maintenance, did not have the funding to do it. When the waterway became too shallow, Fox said boaters would simply bypass the section by sailing into the open ocean, something he said would be tempting and easy to do when traveling through Glynn County. Boaters and yachtsmen have told The News in the past that they prefer to risk the open ocean than the waterway because of shoaling. “I bet it is costing this area big bucks in tourism,” Fox said. Boaters traveling up and down the coast often spend a lot of money at stores and on gas when stopped at marinas for a night or two, he said. In Apollo Beach, Fox said the community raised more than $1 million in four years to put towards dredging. Along with state and county governments, the funding goal was accomplished, he said. Andy MacLeod, a boater from Pennsylvania who was docked at the marina on Jekyll Thursday, said the issue will only get worse if not addressed. “There will come a day when this creek is 4 feet at mean low tide,” MacLeod said. That could very well happen in the foreseeable future. Billy Birdwell, spokesman for the Savannah District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, said there is no funding in the president’s budget for dredging Jekyll Creek. The Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for maintaining the waterways. “We estimate it would cost $6 million to clear Jekyll Creek back to its authorized 12-foot depth if we can place the dredged material into Andrews Island Dredged Material Management Area,” Birdwell said. Andrews Island is used for silt removed from the port’s shipping channel, but it has not been used for waterway maintenance. Congress appropriates funds for dredging in the waterway based on the amount of commercial traffic. Passing pleasure craft traffic is not considered commercial, Birdwell said. Birdwell also noted that the Downing Musgrove Causeway connecting Jekyll Island to the mainland disrupts the natural currents that would keep the creek clear. “Therefore it refills with material quickly,” Birdwell said.

      The truth here is that your Congressperson doesn’t give a hoot about the Intracoastal Waterway or he/she would be fighting to have funds allocated to the Army Corps of Engineers to get the dredging done.
      Richard Boehm

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    • Report from Cumberland Dividings AICW Problem Stretch, Statute Mile 704

      Captain Butler offers good advice for the Waterway channel near the southern tip of the “Cumberland Dividings,” just north of where the AICW intersects the southerly reaches of the Brickhill River. This “AICW Problem Stretch” has multiple problems. First, some charts and chartplotters show the magenta fairway line running on the western side of the red markers in this area. Those who blindly follow this erroneous magenta line will run aground every time. Also, and perhaps even worse, the Waterway is shoaling badly along its western flank, north of marker #63.

      Channel is well marked, looks like new markers were installed. Definitely follow the markers and not the magenta line on the charts.
      Karen Butler

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the Cumberland Dividings

      Click Chartlet Below To Open A Chart View Windows Zoomed to the Location of This AICW Problem Stretch”

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    • Another View from Jekyll Creek/AICW Problem Stretch, AICW Statute Mile 683

      Click for Chartview

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatThe AICW/Jekyll Creek Problem Stretch has had shoaling for some time now with reports of depths below 5ft at low tide. Mid to high tide passage is recommended. Sonny provides us with another perspective on this very shallow creek.

      I am going to disagree with everyone. The creek at Jekyll is tricky but if you follow the channel, look at a sat or google earth view and you will see it! Not the magenta line.
      We have several barges come through each week at differing tides and they draw 8 ft. I have a picture of the barge going through the bridge at Jekyll Harbor Marina at low tide with a draft of 8 ft.

      Yes there is some shoaling at G19 and St. Andrews sound but we go out and in with our 4 ft draft fine at low tide. Boat US will advise you also to stay in the channel! They say the people that get in trouble are out of the channel.
      I hope this helps.
      I want cruisers to know that the ICW passage here is safe and passable if they are aware and careful. Jekyll Island is a very nice place to visit or stay as they transit the ICW heading south for the winter.
      Sonny, Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For Jekyll Creek

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • More on Avoiding Marker #32 in St. Andrew Sound, AICW Statute Mile 690

      Captain Healey’s excellent description of his passages through St. Andrew Sound has been prompted by the lengthy discussion (see referenced link below) of the Waterway’s dogleg turn at Marker #32 and he offers an alternative route to avoid Marker #32 where the water can get very rough because of its proximity to the open ocean.

      Hi Claiborne,

      Reference: SSECN link: /important-markercharting-confusion-and-increased-shoaling-on-aicws-passage-through-georgias-st-andrew-sound-st-m-690/, dated August, 2012.

      I guess I missed this discussion when it was hot. At the risk of “getting myself in trouble,” I confess that I do not go east as far as R”32″ when we transit the area of St. Andrews Sound. Instead, we skirt the eastern end of the charted shoal that extends westward from the mouth of the Satilla River towards the inlet. That shoal is labeled “Horseshoe Shoal” on the chart. I know my path is off the charted magenta line, but as we all know, the magenta line is only a guide, and often wrong as waterways have changed since it was first created.

      I have attached two screen shots (Vector and Raster chart views from Coastal Explorer). The screen shots show both our “preferred route” (black line) and 4 of our tracks (light red lines) as recorded over the past several years. The tracks are dated: 4/23/ 2008, 5/16/2009, 11/9/2011 and 4/24/2012. In settled conditions, we go out at Doboy Sound and come back in at Fernandina or Jacksonville. That skips a lot of Georgia shallow water, and it’s easy-out, easy-in. That’s why there are some migrations that don’t show tracks.

      To my personal knowledge, the depth of the “shortcut” that I’ve shown has been stable over at least the last 5 years, and generally carries 3′ – 4′ more water than charted, adjusted for tidal range at the time of our passage. We have transited that route at several tide stages, and I’ve never had occasion to worry about depth. We draw 4-1/4 ft, and have never seen less than 7.5′-8′ in that area. My one concern would be if seas were up from the east. In 2′ – 3′ seas, at low tide, I’d just swing a little farther east around the tail of Horseshoe Shoal. Or, take the route through Floyd’s Creek. In any case, it “is not* necessary to go out to R”32” before turning south to the ICW off Cumberland Island.

      I am not advocating or encouraging others to do what I do. Every captain has to decide what’s right for them. But, this is what I have done and it has worked well for us. We’ll be headed south in another 3-4 weeks. I will let you know what we find.

      Hope all is well! Jim

      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary
      Currently at Rock Creek, Pasadena, MD
      Monk 36 Hull #132
      MMSI #367042570
      AGLCA #3767
      MTOA #3436

      St. Andrew Sound - Click for Chartview

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Donovan -  September 23, 2012 - 5:50 pm

        Yep; that’s exactly the route I’ve been taking, with the same observations. Nice graphic!
        Donovan

        Reply to Donovan
    • New Manager at Jekyll Harbor Marina, AICW Statute Mile 684.5

      Jeykyll Harbor Marina... a Cool Place to Beat the HeatJekyll 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, and one heck of a friendly stop!

      Cruising News:
      New manager @ Jekyll Harbor Marina. Scott Todd has assumed the position of Marina Manager and is determined to deliver the best service on the ICW. The marina is looking forward to many improvements and updates as Scott and his team work hard to make JHM the place to be. Jekyll Harbor Marina is a Clean Marina and will welcome transients and long term boaters. Enjoy the nice weather and a safe harbor this winter as you travel the ICW.
      Sonny Reeves

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s Georgia Marina Directory Listing For Jekyll Harbor Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Jekyll Harbor Marina

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