South Carolina’s Gray Man Legend
A spooky South Carolina legend for Halloween!
South Carolina’s ghostly Gray Man legend offers lessons in hurricanes and shared stories
Post and Courier
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Comprehensive cruising resource for the Intracoastal Waterways
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
from Norfolk to the Northern Gulf and Bahamas.
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The Alliance for the Blue Economy – Wilmington, NC
The Alliance for the Blue Economy (“All Blue”) is a local, multidisciplinary initiative to establish Wilmington and southeastern North Carolina as a national and global leader in the Blue Economy.
The Alliance for the Blue Economy
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Last Section of Golden Ray Removed From St. Simons Sound, GA
The saga of the transport Golden Ray, which went aground and partially capsized in Georgia’s St. Simons Sound on September 7, 2019, may finally be coming to a close. With numerous delays, the wreck of the capsized PCTC has taken more than two years to remove from St. Simons Sound, Georgia. See Last Section Emerges.
Last Section of Golden Ray Removed From St. Simons Sound
Maritime ExecutiveBe the first to comment!
Water News You Can Use – Southwest Florida Water Management District
As the District celebrates 60 years protecting water resources and ensuring the public’s water needs are met, it is important to plan for the state’s future water supply.
District Changes Camping Rules
New rules have gone into effect for camping locations on District properties. The District offers a variety of free camping locations across our 16 counties. Some of the key changes to camping rules affect the reservation process and rules while onsite. The rules create a more consistent and efficient system and increase availability to more campers. Learn more about the camping rules.
Program Offers Rebates to Help Save Water
The District is teaming up with Tampa Bay Water to promote conservation through the Water Wise program. Watch the video to learn how to participate in the program.
Weather Plays Key Role in Spring Flow Levels
Rainfall amounts can significantly affect the flow of springs. Watch as the District’s Dr. Madison Trowbridge explains the factors of spring flows.
Innovative Programs Help Ensure Future Water Supply
As the District celebrates 60 years protecting water resources and ensuring the public’s water needs are met, it is important to plan for the state’s future water supply. Read about ways the District plans to meet Florida’s needs.
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Boating Education Classes Should Be Mandatory in Florida
Cruisers Net recommends mandatory boating education classes for ALL persons in ALL states before being allowed to operate any powered vessel, especially with the COVID induced increase in boat ownership. Yesterday’s “runabouts” with 25hp outboards are today’s 17ft heavy center consoles with 200hp.
Florida boaters should take a boat education class to avoid crashes – TC Palm
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Video: Last Section of Golden Ray Emerges From the Water, St Simons Sound, GA
The saga of the transport Golden Ray, which went aground and partially capsized in Georgia’s St. Simons Sound on September 7, 2019, may finally be coming to a close. With numerous delays, the wreck of the capsized PCTC has taken more than two years to remove from St. Simons Sound, Georgia. See Photos: Salvors Lift Final Section.
Damage to hull structure is visible at lower right (upper port) side of the hull (St. Simons Sound Incident Response)
Video: Last Section of Golden Ray Emerges From the Water
Maritime ExecutiveBe the first to comment!
NOAA: Creep Into the Deep Halloween Videos!!!
In the dark of the deep ocean NOAA Remote Vehicles film creatures that could practically come from another world. They are fascinating, beautiful and mysterious.
Creep Into the Deep Halloween Videos!!!
National Ocean Service, NOAABe the first to comment!
5 Abandoned Vessels Removed from ICW in Horry County, SC
Wounded Nature-Working Veterans, a nonprofit group, organized Wednesday’s cleanup, working with the Coast Guard and DNR crews to clear five vessels from the Intracoastal Waterway. About 15 derelicts still remain in Horry County’s ICW.
Wounded Nature-Working Veterans is a group of veterans, non-veterans and active duty military personnel run by Captain Rudy Socha in the Charleston area. The non-profit volunteer organization is working to cleanup, preserve and protect our coastal environment, particularly from derelict vessels.
3 Facebook Likes, 3 Facebook Reactions
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Kermit
Hunt the owners down and force them to pay all fees required to clean up "their mess".
Perhaps allow a community group to assist and make it like a treasure hunt.
-
Georgia DNR Rescues Dolphin
Scroll down for the story and video. Well done GA DNR!
Georgia Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 10/14/2021 11:02 AM EDT
IN THIS ISSUE
– A big tree for big spaces
– Watch: DNR dolphin rescue
– Bird news: youth winners, Joro worries
THESE BATS ARE BEYOND FAST
Studies rate Brazilian free-tailed bats one Earth’s fastest mammals. (Ann Froschauer/USFWS)
Brazilian free-tailed bats are one of the 16 bat species native to Georgia. But make no mistake, their speed sets them apart. As does their ability to fly high and far.
Also called Mexican free-tailed bats, these small bats with narrow, long wings have been clocked at a blistering 99 mph in level flight. That makes them one of the world’s fastest mammals.
They also can fly as high as 10,000 feet, although often they’re only a half-mile or so up. And although they usually feed within a 50-mile radius of their day roosts, they can forage as far as 150 miles away in a night, says Katrina Morris, a program manager with DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section.
Brazilian free-tailed bats are big eaters, too. In Texas, they and other “house” bats eat an estimated 6,600 to 19,800 tons of insects a year, limiting damage to crops.
So how can you help conserve these fast bats, and others? Two quick answers:
- Buy an eagle or monarch butterfly license plate, or renew one of these or a hummingbird tag. Up to 80 percent of the $25 fee goes directly to wildlife.
- Donate to the Georgia Wildlife Conservation Fund at gooutdoorsgeorgia.com. No account? No problem. Just click “Licenses and Permits” to create one.
OUT MY BACKDOOR: A BIG TREE FOR BIG SPACES
American beech on Big Lazer Creek WMA (Terry W. Johnson)
By TERRY W. JOHNSON
Most of the suggestions I offer about enhancing your property for wildlife are applicable to yards of almost any size. But this month, my recommendation is best for big yards – really big yards.
That’s because I’m talking about the American beech.
This tree is extremely valuable to wildlife, from its protein-packed beechnuts to its role as a host for some moths and butterflies and even as a source of insects that feed scores of bird species.
However, the slow-growing but potentially massive American beech – which can top 125 feet tall and sport a 60-foot-wide canopy – is not suited for average-sized yards.
That said, it’s a shame that beeches are hard to find these days. …
Read Terry’s column exploring the beauty and value of the American beech.
Terry W. Johnson is a retired DNR program manager and executive director of TERN, the Wildlife Conservation Section’s friends group. Check out past columns, his Backyard Wildlife Connection blog and his book “A Journey of Discovery: Monroe County Outdoors.” Permission is required to reprint his columns.
DNR FREES ENTANGLED DOLPHIN
Weighed down by the crab trap, the entangled dolphin surfaces for air. (Ashley Raybould/DNR)
North Atlantic right whales entangled in commercial fishing gear is a familiar headline. But DNR staff also deal with a lesser-known entanglement: bottlenose dolphins caught in crab trap buoy lines.
While involving a much more common species and on a much smaller scale, these incidents can still mean life or death for the animal. Or in a case this summer, an adult dolphin and her calf.
Alerted by DNR Range Safety Officer Kevin Michaud to a dolphin in trouble near Richmond Hill Aug. 4, senior wildlife biologist Clay George and crew arrived to find the buoy rope of a trap wrapped tightly around the dolphin’s tail.
With the weight of the trap pulling her under, she struggled to surface and breathe.
Most dolphin entanglements are straightforward. Not this one. “She had managed to roll and twist over 20 feet of rope around her tail,” George said.
Complicating matters, dolphins can die suddenly from the stress of being entangled. The quicker they’re released, the better. And this dolphin had a calf close by, one too young to survive alone.
The four-person team followed a basic plan. Snag the line. Control the tail. Loosen and determine where to cut the rope – fast. Slice carefully. All while hanging onto a thrashing 300-pound mass of muscle.
It worked. The dolphin swam away rope-free. Her calf quickly joined her.
“It’s the second case I can think of where we disentangled a mom while its calf swam around nearby,” George said.
Watch as DNR’s Mark Dodd and others disentangle the mom dolphin. (Clay George/DNR)
Why dolphins get entangled is not clear. Some may be trying to steal the trap bait or playing with the rope or buoy, or maybe they’re accidently caught as they swim past.
While not common, entanglement also isn’t a freak occurrence. The Aug. 4 incident was the third crab-trap entanglement reported in Georgia this year and the only one that did not end in death. DNR has documented 29 confirmed and suspected entanglements since 2000. Of those, 43 percent of the dolphins died.
Fortunately, this dolphin had not been entangled long. When the crabber had checked the trap that morning, she wasn’t there.
WHY NOT CUT FIRST
Here’s why staff first loosen the rope and assess where to start cutting:
- Loosening makes it easier and safer to slice the rope without accidently cutting the dolphin.
- The approach helps ensure all of the rope is removed so the dolphin doesn’t swim away with any, raising the risk of infection and death by constriction.
When dolphins are entangled in a crab trap buoy rope, the trap acts like an anchor. As the animal twists, rolls and pulls, the rope cinches tighter around them.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
If you see an entangled, hurt or stranded dolphin, please report it immediately to DNR’s Marine Mammal Stranding Network, (800) 2-SAVE-ME (800-272-8363). Note the date, time, place and, if possible, the coordinates.
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History of Famed Cutter USRC Bear
If you love wooden boats, you will appreciate the history of this vessel.
U.S. Coast Guard Locates Wreck of Famed Cutter USRC Bear
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AIWA Annual Meeting: 1 Month Away! November 17-18, 2021
Cruisers Net is proud to be a member of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association whose lobbying work is crucial to keeping the Waterway navigable and safe. Your membership dollars directly support their vital work. Please join and encourage your boating neighbors to do likewise, regardless of their homeport.
Book your Hotel and Register Today
for the 2021 AIWA Annual Meeting!
Join us in Atlantic Beach, Florida for the 2021 AIWA
ANNUAL MEETING on
November 17-18, 2021HOTEL ROOM BLOCK CLOSES OCTOBER 25TH!
Click Here to Register! 
In just over one month, the AIWA Annual Meeting will be held on November 17-18, 2021 in Atlantic Beach, FL at The One Ocean Resort Hotel. We hope you will join us! We are reaching out today to share our updated agenda and remind you of two important upcoming deadlines.
Our agenda is packed with informative presentations and multiple opportunities to connect with representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ North and South Atlantic Divisions and Districts, NOAA, Maritime Administration of the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, business leaders, and waterway supporters covering the following topics:
State of the Waterway by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – As the federal agency responsible for maintaining the waterway, we invite North and South Atlantic Division personnel and District Project Managers to provide us with updates on completed projects and new projects on the horizon for the coming year.
Working with our federal partners in NOAA and MARAD – We continue to engage with project managers and decision-makers whose area of responsibility include safe navigation, waterway mapping, and infrastructure investments that increase opportunities to enjoy and utilize Marine Highway 95.
Also, we’ll have specific presentations on:
- Implementation of Regional Sediment Management Techniques along the Waterway
- Managing Dredge Material Management Areas
- Utilizing Hydrographic Surveys and New Technologies to aid in Dredge Management and Planning
- Recreational Boating and Dredging Industry Perspectives
- A View from Washington, D.C. and much more!
REGISTRATION & HOTEL DEADLINES:
Annual Meeting Registration is available here.
Early registration ends November 1st.One Ocean Resort Hotel reservation bookings are available here. We have a room block at the reduced rate of $178 for the deluxe ocean view (non-balcony) rooms. Please reserve your rooms by October 25th to receive the reduced rate.
Stay Safe Covid Protocols: We will follow all local, state, and federal guidelines and we will have masks and hand sanitizer readily available. We will also have the meeting room set to accommodate physical distancing.
Sponsorship and Exhibitor opportunities are available.
To learn more, contact Brad Pickel at aiwa@atlanticintracoastal.net .Click Here for the Current Agenda 
We welcome a new addition to the AIWA Annual Meeting this year. The Council for Dredging & Marine Construction Safety (CDMCS) Q4 meeting will be held in collaboration with the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association on Thursday, November 18 beginning at 1:00 PM at the One Ocean Resort Hotel in Atlantic Beach, FL. Topics will include:
- A video on Beach Nourishment Safety, new methods for training new and experienced employees in an ever-changing diverse workforce.
- New hire discussions on the availability of skilled employees and what the future holds in apprentice programs.
- Reports and statistics from both US Army Corps of Engineers & Industry. A comprehensive review of safety accidents and incidents trends from the past year.
- A group discussion on Covid-19 management and implementation of company policies. Also, upcoming mandates and COVID-19 action plans.
This meeting is open to all attendees to the AIWA Annual Meeting. Participants to the CDMCS meeting must register to attend the full AIWA Annual Meeting or the Thursday, November 18th sessions. Sign up for the workshop on the AIWA website here.
For questions regarding the CDMCS program, please contact Devon Carlock at devon@cdmcs.org for further details.
Register Now for AIWA Annual Meeting and CDMCS Meeting 
Special Thanks to Our Current AIWA Annual Meeting Sponsors. Sponsorship & Exhibitor Opportunities are Available.
Florida Inland Navigation District 
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, LLC
Cross State Towing 
Cottrell Contracting Corporation 
Taylor Engineering, Inc.
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. 
AIWA 2021 Annual Meeting Location: One Ocean Resort Hotel, Atlantic Beach, FLBe the first to comment!
Where To Stay When You Visit Edenton, Albemarle Sound, NC
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, historic Edenton always has an exciting calendar of events! Edenton is at the mouth of the Chowan River on the northwest shore of Albemarle Sound.
800-775-0111 • info@visitedenton.comHello!The first question on everyone’s mind when they decide to visit Edenton is the same.If you are thinking about visiting Edenton, today’s article will help you figure out the perfect place.In Edenton, we have:- B&Bs
- Hotels
- RV parks
- Campgrounds
- And vacation rentals
Today, we’ll help you figure out the best place for you.See you soon!EriennePS-We have more options than you’d expect. Today, you’ll see what they are.
Visit the Prettiest Small Town in the South* Shop * Dine * Stay *STAY CONNECTED WITH US!800-775-0111 • info@visitedenton.comChowan County Tourism Development Authority | PO Box 245, 101 W Water Street, Edenton, NC 27932 Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor City Docks
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NC Sea Turtle Scoop: 2021 Nesting Season
Sea Turtle Scoop: Your Look Inside the 2021 Nesting Season at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Sea Turtle Scoop: Your Look Inside the 2021 Nesting Season at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Did you know that each summer biologists at Cape Hatteras National Seashore carefully track, learn from, and protect hundreds of sea turtle nests here in your OBX national parks?If you’ve participate in our Adopt a Nest program, you know how fun it is to get your personal email at the end of the summer telling you how many baby sea turtles left your adopted nest to make their way to the ocean. This year, we thought all of you might enjoy a look inside the sea turtle nesting season!While human visitors flocked to the seashore in record numbers this summer, over 300 sea turtles also made their way here to nest. We are excited to share that over 19,000 hatchlings made their way to the ocean, and that you all helped us raise $10,451 to protect and enhance this special place!Check out your “sea turtle scoop” below, and thank you for supporting your OBX national parks!
An adult loggerhead sea turtle makes her way back into the ocean. Photo: NPS/B. RanelliGet to Know YourOBX Sea TurtlesJoin us in saying a special thank you to Ben Ranelli, a seasonal ranger at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, for writing such interesting and informative articles about the sea turtle species that call the Seashore their home.Check out Ben’s series on our website to learn more about Kemp’s ridley, green and loggerhead sea turtles.
Virtual Sea Turtle Nest ExperiencesIn case you missed it, we teamed up with your national park staff and our friends at the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau to bring you two exciting virtual sea turtle experiences this summer!Watch as biological technicians carefully excavate a sea turtle nest after it hatched — and then release the hatchings they rescue into the ocean!Outer Banks Forever is an official partner of the National Park Service and the three national parks of the Outer Banks.Learn more at www.obxforever.org
Outer Banks Forever | 802 Colington Rd., Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 Be the first to comment!
National Ocean Service Quarterly Newsletter, October 2021
New NOAA Website Provides Marine Navigation Resources in a Central Location.
National Ocean Service, NOAA
Wed, Oct 13, 10:20 AM (21 hours ago)
Quarterly Newsletter
October 2021
New NOAA Website Provides Marine Navigation Resources in a Central Location
The image above depicts the homepage of NOAA’s new Precision Marine Navigation website
A recently launched website from NOAA’s Precision Marine Navigation (PMN) program will improve the use and accessibility of NOAA’s marine navigation products and services. The website, Marine Navigation, includes links and short descriptions to NOAA’s various navigation resources, providing a one-stop shop that mariners can visit to get the data they need. Designed for shipping professionals and recreational boaters alike, the PMN program hopes the website will become a valuable tool to support all mariners in their navigation planning and decision making processes.
NOAA Celebrates 30 Years of PORTS and Expands Four Systems to Enhance Navigation Safety in Busy Shipping Areas
The image above depicts vessels transiting under the Fred Hartman Bridge in Texas
In July, NOAA’s Physical Oceanographic Real-Time Systems (PORTSⓇ) celebrated its thirtieth anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, NOAA launched an updated PORTS landing page featuring the customizable MyPORTS application, a new system map, and an outreach video for the public. NOAA also worked with its local partners on the West Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico to add new sensors to existing PORTS that will improve marine navigation safety in these areas. The Humboldt Bay PORTS upgrade included a new side-looking current meter that provides mariners with real-time data to support commercial and recreational use inside Humboldt Bay. As part of the Los Angeles/Long Beach PORTS, a new air gap system consisting of two air gap sensors were installed on the new Gerald Desmond Bridge, which provides mariners with real-time data on bridge clearance within plus/minus an inch. An air gap system on the old, nearby Gerald Desmond Bridge will remain operational until that structure is dismantled. The Mobile Bay PORTS added a new visibility sensor in the middle of the bay at E Range Front Light. The addition of this valuable real-time data helps mariners, particularly from large cargo ships and assisting tug boats coming in and out of port, to navigate safely. As part of the Corpus Christi PORTS expansion, two new water level stations were added in the Viola Turning Basin and at the MODA Ingleside Energy Center.
Model Upgrade: Global Extratropical Surge and Tide Operational Forecast System Upgraded to Version Two
The two juxtaposed images above depict the upgraded Global ESTOFS Model
In July 2021, the Global Extratropical Surge and Tide Operational Forecast System (Global ESTOFS) upgrade to version 2 was implemented into operations on the National Weather Service’s Weather and Climate Operational Supercomputing System. Global ESTOFS provides forecast guidance of the combined water level caused by storm surge and tides globally. Over the past several months, NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey Development Lab/Coastal Marine Modeling Branch/Storm Surge Modeling Team collaborated with the University of Notre Dame to implement many significant advancements in Global ESTOFS to improve model performance, resolution, and coverage. Some of the enhancements include: adding federal levees in southern Louisiana; improved spatial resolution and inclusion of a floodplain for Puerto Rico; output of depth-averaged current velocities for use in NOAA’s Nearshore Wave Prediction System; and improvements to coastal topobathy and bottom friction and subsequent performance in coastal flood forecasts. Users in both the disaster mitigation and marine navigation communities can expect much improved water level forecast guidance with this upgrade. With its new global coverage, the name of the model is planned to change to Global STOFS in July 2022. Global ESTOFS output is available on AWS and NOMADS, and visualization available on nowCOAST and this web portal.
Advancements in Survey Technology, Blue Economy, and More Discussed at Fall 2021 Virtual Hydrographic Services Review Panel
The image above depicts the acronym “HSRP” in large font, which stands for Hydrographic Services Review Panel
NOAA’s Hydrographic Service Review Panel (HSRP), a federal advisory committee, convened virtually from September 1-2, 2021 to hear views from stakeholders and partners on NOAA’s navigation products and services, and topics including seafloor mapping, datum updates, wind energy development, surveying technology, and the Blue Economy. The meeting included two special sessions. The first focused on offshore wind energy development and NOAA’s role in supporting it. NOAA can help advance this mission by providing geospatial data though mapping and observations. The second session focused on new technology employed during nearshore shallow water surveys. Advances in lidar, uncrewed vessels, satellite derived bathymetry, and other technologies are enabling data to be gathered in areas that are too hazardous to send people in to survey. Dr. Rick Spinrad, NOAA’s recently appointed Administrator & Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, shared his priorities with HSRP, including his vision for the Blue Economy. HSRP is a federal advisory committee that advises the NOAA administrator on products and services related to navigation services, water levels and currents, and global positioning. The director of NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey serves as the designated federal official of the panel. The panel will consider information from this meeting as it makes recommendations to NOAA’s administrator.
United States, Canada, and Mexico Submit Jointly Computed Geoid Model
The geoid is a model of global mean sea level used to measure precise surface elevations. This summer the Experimental Geoid Model 2020 (xGEOID20) — the first geoid model jointly computed by the National Geodetic Survey, the Canadian Geodetic Survey of Natural Resources Canada, and the National Institute of Statistics and Geography of Mexico — was submitted to the International Service for the Geoid (ISG) for validation and dissemination to the scientific community. This new experimental geoid model is the culmination of years of collaboration and joint data processing between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and heralds a new level of accuracy and interoperation among the countries’ geospatial data models. The xGEOID20 covers the entire region of North America. The new model provides improved accuracy and data for navigation, positioning, and the myriad applications of geodesy, including autonomous navigation, precision agriculture, civil surveying, early warning systems, and improved floodplain mapping.
NOAA Releases State of High Tide Flooding and Annual Outlook Report
Image above depicts a US map of Projected High Tide Flood Days in 2021
U.S. coastal communities continued to see record-setting high-tide flooding in 2020, forcing residents and visitors to deal with flooded shorelines, streets and basements — a trend that is expected to continue into 2022. In July, NOAA released its 7th State of High Tide Flooding and Annual Outlook report that documents changes in high-tide flooding patterns from the previous year at NOAA tide gauges along the U.S. coast, and provides a flooding outlook for these locations for the coming year, as well as projections for the next several decades. High tide flooding, increasingly common due to years of relative sea level increases, occurs when tides reach anywhere from 1.75 to 2.00 feet above the daily average high tide and start spilling onto streets or bubbling up from storm drains. The report found that high tide flooding is now accelerating at 80% of locations along the East and Gulf Coasts. Fourteen locations, primarily in these regions, broke or tied their flood records in 2020. By 2030, high tide flooding is likely to be in the range of 7-15 days and by 2050, between 25-75 days. These long term outlooks are based on the range of relative sea level rise ‘more likely’ to occur by 2030 and 2050 using projections of the Fourth National Climate Assessment.
Nautical
ChartsReal-time Observations, Forecasts, and Predictions Observing Systems Framework for Positioning Marine Weather Be the first to comment!
Great Dismal Swamp Canal Passage Report by Joshua Gordan
The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center is located adjacent to the Dismal Swamp State Park, offering trails, exhibits and ongoing programs in Camden County, NC. Docks are provided by the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR and a NC DOT Rest Area facility. See Fall Update.
Greetings,
Winston Fowler has asked me to send some photos and comments on my transit of the swamp on my cape dory 28.I entered Deep ck lock yesterday10/12… stopped at the visitor center, and passed through to Elizabeth city today.People have a concern about duckweed… right now, there is very little until you get a mile or so from south mills. There, It is moderate, not really fully covering the canal. After south mills, it is relatively full, for about a mile past turners cut .. where it clears up altogether. I have included some photos… And also of my sea strainer , which I did not clean the entire way, so this is the total accumulation.Other impressions;Robert will be missed at Deep Creek, but the young man who is tending now is cheerful, and engaged. He called a few times, explained the process, and was happy to be there. This contrasts the older guy at south mills, who lifted the bridge without warning me ( I was still anchored) , and so the bridge we as open for a bit longer that it needed to be… Once in the lock, he drove to the far end and let the water out… The gates opened, but of course I could not tell if he was on his way back to toss lines… I set myself free, and motored out. He was still in the lock shack… Good thing I didn’t wait for him! Just a few words would make his and other’s days go better.I think that the side and overhead brush is pretty ragged, and encroaches on the navigation. There is one spot that required snaking my 42′ mast between trees on opposite banks. There are three large floaters along the way that could do some real damage The big transit season is coming up, and it’s too bad it is in this shape. Most of the side waterway signs are damaged or overgrown.Still, it is a beautiful trip, and a resource that VA and NC should take care of.Thank you for all you do for us boaters!Sincerely,Joshua Gordon. S/V WayfinderUscg 100 ton master
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Robert
I agree with the comments above, It is no big deal to transit the DSC and you must remain on your toes both overhead and in the mirrored waters ahead of you. I still prefer this route in our 40' Manta Catamaran. However, with a 65' air draft and a relief at the helm, we cleaded the top of the mast of $500 worth of hardware with an overhanging tree that was overlooked.
Still a beautiful trip that we will make again.
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Sailing 4 Smiles Charity Heading South
Sailing 4 Smiles is a team of regular and part time licensed dental providers, sailing professionals and volunteers who are committed to helping others. During a stop in St. Augustine, S4S enjoyed the architecture, history and a visit to The Webster School Head Start Program.
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North Carolina Oyster Week, October 11-15, 2021
October is a key month for N.C. oysters. The wild-caught season begins Oct. 15 and continues through April.
It’s Oyster Week in North Carolina
CoastalReview.orgBe the first to comment!
Fall Update from Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center Director, Sarah Hill
The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center is located adjacent to the Dismal Swamp State Park, offering trails, exhibits and ongoing programs in Camden County, NC. Docks are provided by the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR and a NC DOT Rest Area facility. See September 16 Update.
Greetings,
Hope you had a great weekend! We are starting to see an uptick in boating traffic along the canal as well as the beginning of some fall colors appearing. Boaters have reported some patches of duckweed near the South Mills drawbridge and lock, but at this time no major issues. We’ll keep you updated if something changes. Our neighbors at the Dismal Swamp State Park remain closed to visitors due to construction. The park’s pedestrian bridge was removed from the water last week to be worked on.
Canal is open to traffic with locks operating on their normal schedule. We look forward to great fall season and appreciate everything you do to keep boaters updated & ready to cruise the Dismal Swamp Canal!
Please let us know if you have any questions or we can assist in anyway.
Many thanks,
Sarah
Sarah Hill
Director, Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome CenterChairperson, Camden County Tourism Development Authority
2356 US Hwy 17 North, South Mills, NC 27976
252-771-8333 | shill@camdencountync.gov www.DismalSwampWelcomeCenter.com 
Comments from Cruisers (1)
- Reply to Jim
To all East Coast Boaters – this passage is a must. History, primitive beauty, and welcoming layovers are not to be missed. And this welcome center has the nicest people I have ever met. Get a sticker for you car or boat and a cap for your noggin!
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How To Plan The Perfect Fall Getaway In Edenton, NC, Albemarle Sound, NC
A longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, historic Edenton always has an exciting calendar of events! Edenton is at the mouth of the Chowan River on the northwest shore of Albemarle Sound
800-775-0111 • info@visitedenton.comHello!Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Halloween decorations, and the cooler fall air are sweeping across the country.That also means trips to see beautiful fall colors.While places like Vermont and West Virginia get a lot of press this time of year, don’t count Edenton out.We have incredible places to stay, lots to do, and unique things you’ll never see anywhere else.See you soon!ErienneVisit the Prettiest Small Town in the South* Shop * Dine * Stay *STAY CONNECTED WITH US!800-775-0111 • info@visitedenton.comChowan County Tourism Development Authority | PO Box 245, 101 W Water Street, Edenton, NC 27932 Click Here To Open A Chart View Window Zoomed To the Location of Edenton Harbor City Docks
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BoatUS Foundation and Berkley Celebrate Breakthrough Concepts in Fishing Line and Soft Bait Recycling
BoatUS continues to be one of the leading advocates of boating safety and of boaters’ rights.
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