Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Jul 8, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 34.3869,-77.63759999
Report from Harbor Village Marina, Hampstead, NC, AICW Statute Mile 267

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Harbor Village Marina guards the Waterway’s northwestern shore hard by flashing daybeacon #94. Our thanks to the Herls for this report.
Harbor Village Marina, NC
Harbor Village Marina is just off the ICW. Just north of Wrighsville Beach. They have really nice floating docks and we were put on the outside wall finger docks. The dock master was there to help us get hooked up and gave us a ride in the golf cart to the dockmasters office to get checked in. It’s a long walk in fact that evening I just dropped the dinghy into the water and used it to get some ice. The office and fuel docks were just across the fairway and to the left of where we were docked but the walk would have been all the way around the marina. It was just a one night stay; we left early the next AM.
Phil and Sandy Herl
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Harbor Village Marina
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Winston Fowler - July 10, 2015 - 5:23 pm

Harbour Village was the home port for M/V WinSue from June 2002 until moving to Riviera Dunes Marina, Palmetto, FL, in 2005. Good to hear that all is well there. Thanks Phil and Sandy.
Reply to Winston
Jul 7, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 36.0842,-76.40639999
FOCUS ON – Albemarle Plantation Marina, Albemarle Sound, NC

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Albemarle Plantation Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! is located off the AICW, on the northern shores of Albemarle Sound, on Yeopim River/Creek. Descriptions of this facility make a Waterway side trip up the Albemarle Sound very inviting!
“Were a marine architect to set up an ideal location for a new colony, he might first round up thousands of acres of level agricultural and timber lands….In the middle of the land he would place an inland sea completely sheltered from oceanic disturbance. The sea would be long, (say 60 miles), so as to tap a maximum territory, but fairly narrow….To facilitate its crossing, it would taper as it progressed inland. It would generally be approachable by dry shores and would have deep water connections with the outside world…. At frequent intervals there would be large rivers pouring into the sea from every direction. These would keep it fresh….and provide fish with spawning grounds…It would merely cost wishing, to give this body of water a beautiful forested shoreline and all needed then would be to drench it with sunshine, history, and romance. Around its coast would be planted small towns, comfortable, prosperous, well kept and hospitable. This precisely is Albermarle Sound, a brilliant gem.”
1954 quote by Bill Sharpe in The State

Albemarle Plantation Marina
For 20 years, Albemarle Plantation marina has been offering year-round sheltered dockage, power, water, fuel and pump-outs to cruising boaters, as well as the full range of lifestyle amenities available at Albemarle Plantation ‘“ golf, tennis, swimming, bocce ball, full-service restaurant, clubhouse, picnic park, etc’¦. More recent additions
include free WiFi, as well as canoe and kayak rentals and a new community fitness center. The marina has over 100 deep-water slips for vessels of all sizes and is located centrally on the north shore of Albemarle Sound in Yeopim Creek. Albemarle Planation Marina was recently awarded the coveted State of North Carolina `Clean Marina’ designation.

Albemarle Sound is the largest fresh-water Sound on the east coast. Located in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, its wide expanse of sheltered, but deep, water is a sailing paradise as well as a cruising gunk-holer’s delight. Its many rivers and creeks are great kayaking or canoeing grounds, abundant with wildlife of all forms.

Being non-tidal, there are no currents to worry about. As an inland waterway, it is well charted (Nautical Chart 12205, Cape Henry to Pamlico Sound) and marked with navigational aids.
Private navigational aids mark the entrance channel to the Yeopim River from the Albemarle Sound, beginning at green `1’ (Fl G 2.5s 15ft 3m) and red daymark `Y/R’.
From a waypoint at 36 3’N; 76 24’W, continue on a northerly course through the channel until green `5’ (Fl G 4s 15ft). Then set a northwesterly course to approach red daymark `4A’; proceed on course to red daymark `6’ (QR 8 ft 3m), followed shortly thereafter by red daymark `8’. Then steer a heading 355M for 1/3nm, then turn right directly to fuel dock. The fuel dock has a soft bottom and a depth of 6-8 feet.
The shores of Albemarle Sound are literally littered with historical sites ‘“ from the earliest Colonial settlements on Roanoke Island and the Outer Banks at its eastern extremity, to Edenton, the first capital of North Carolina, at its western end and a myriad of historic places in between.
From our marina, it is a 16 mile sail west to Edenton, and just a little further to explore the Chowan and Roanoke rivers. Cruising east, one can visit Elizabeth City at the head of the Pasquotank River, or stay at Manteo and enjoy the history of Roanoke Island and the Lost Colony. Near the eastern end of the Sound is also where you would join the AICW to go north to the Chesapeake or south through the Alligator River to Pamlico Sound and beyond. Crossing the Sound, 12 miles south from Albemarle Plantation marina, will take you to Columbia for an enjoyable lunch stop. Speaking of lunch, it is worthwhile to seek out some fresh locally caught blue crab; Albemarle Sound is home to the largest population of blue crab.
Both BoatUS and SeaTow serve the Sound. So, you are never alone out there on the water ‘“ even though it often feels like it. The Sound is never crowded and there are many days when you may see only a commercial fisherman or crabber working.
Albemarle Plantation Marina is also home to Osprey Yacht Club where you will always find a friendly welcome, hospitality and fellow boaters to swap stories with.
For a full exploration of Albemarle Sound, we recommend spending time sailing the Albemarle Loop; www.albemarleloop.com. For more information about Albemarle Plantation marina, check out www.albemarleplantationmarina.com and www.ospreyyc.com.
Phone 252-426-4037 or call on VHF channel 68 or 16 for slip assignment and docking assistance. The marina is open 9am to 5pm weekdays and 8am to 5pm weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Winter hours are 9am to 5pm.
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Albemarle Plantation Marina
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Jul 2, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.9304,-77.9969999
Report from Deep Point Marina, Southport, NC, Cape Fear River, AICW Statute Mile 307

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The marked entry channel to Deep Point Marina – A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! – lies northwest of Cape Fear River/AICW marker #20.
Deep Point Marina, NC
Deep Point Marina, near Southport, NC. Great marina, we were the late arrival so we were on or near the fuel dock. This was in front of the ferry station, as the ferry docked at the landing the wakes were more than you would expect at a dock, so the rocking from the ferry as it came and left was an issue until after 1:00 am and started early dark thirty the next morning.
The marina is very nice the crew are great and Curtis treated us very well. A beautiful pool is near the dock masters office, just a short walk. We took full advantage, it is still very warm.
Phil and Sandy Herl
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Deep Point Marina
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Jun 28, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 33.9209,-78.23629999
Shoaling Reported at Lockwoods Folly/AICW Intersection, Statute Mile 321

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Shoaling at the intersection of the Waterway and Lockwoods Folly Inlet has been a concern in past years and now, as Skippers Lundie and Winters report.
Passed through Lockwoods Folly northbound on 6/13 30 minutes before low tide (poor planning). Shoaling in vicinity of G47. Favor north side (R46).
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Lockwoods Folly Inlet Intersection
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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John Winter - July 3, 2015 - 8:35 pm

Came through today and yes, at that one spot, it is very shallow. Slow down and feel your way if below half tide. We poked around and even within the channel, I could see a 4′ draft boat hitting bottom. Surprisingly, Shallotte Inlet was pretty good today. No issues of real note.
Reply to John
Jun 23, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 36.5937,-76.38659999
Dredging in Dismal Swamp Canal, ICW Alternate Route Statute Mile 22

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The onsite dredges and dredging equipment will certainly make the close quarters of the Dismal Swamp Canal even cozier, so SLOW DOWN and keep a good forward watch. The possibility of the dredging action pulling up stumps and logs is very real and could damage your running gear. The Lake Drummond feeder ditch intersects the Canal at Statute Mile 22 north of the Dismal Swamp Welcome Center, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
VA ‘“ CHESAPEAKE ‘“ DISMAL SWAMP ‘“ DREDGING
Southwind Construction Corporation will begin dredging operations within the Dismal Swamp Canal near marker 22 on 29 June through 29 July, 2015. Operations will take place 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The dredge KRISTI JOE and tender DANNY JOE will be onscene. Both vessels monitor VHF Channels 13 & 16, with a working channel 78. Floating rubber and polyethylene pipeline associated with dredging operation will traverse both northerly and southerly along the western shoreline of Dismal Swamp Canal to the adjacent Upland Disposal Area located along the Lake Drummond Feeder Ditch. Chart 12200 NM: 25/15
6/25 And this news today from Donna Stewart at the Welcome Center:
Larry,
I spoke to the Operations Manager, Joel Scussell. He said he does not expect a lot of disruption and they will work 1700′ feet both north and south at the mouth of the ditch and 500′ into the Feeder Ditch. The contractor has done work in the past, with a good reputation and they expect to be cleared to 9′ in this location. I wish they had funds to dredge the whole canal. We will add this to our Wish List.
Thanks,
Donna
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
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Jun 23, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.7688,-77.94189999
Profile: More on Frying Pan Tower, south of Bald Head Island

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The decommissioned Frying Pan Light Station is being privately restored as Frying Pan Tower, open to overnight guests. Frying Pan Shoals off the tip of Cape Fear is well known to off-shore cruisers. For more information and lots of photos, visit the Frying Pan Tower website at http://www.fptower.com/history.html.
The Frying Pan Tower – formerly the U.S. Coast Guard Frying Pan Light Station, is a lighthouse situated at the end of the Frying Pan Shoals, 32 miles south of Bald Head Island N.C.
This is the southernmost end of the feared `Graveyard of the Atlantic’ which stretches up to the northern end of the Outer Banks of N.C. The shallow waters of the shoals (only 35-50 feet under the Tower) made ship navigation treacherous so in 1854 a lightship was stationed there. For 110 years, except for a few years during The War Between the States and WWII, crews manned the lightship 24/7 in all weather.
The mission of the project is to protect and preserve the Frying Pan Tower, originally the USCG Frying Pan Light Station.
The restoration of the Frying Pan Tower is being conducted by volunteers; financed through contributions and the donation of needed supplies. This unique part of American history is being preserved so that generations to come will have an opportunity to enjoy what very few people have experienced: the ever changing, never changing life 85′ above the Atlantic Ocean.
The constant struggle to preserve an old, steel structure sited in the middle of an ocean, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean’s `hurricane alley’, is a labor of love and adventure by individuals who wish to see history preserved and shared. Conditions and materials as well as the forces of Mother Nature make it unlikely that this struggle will ever end. It will be an ongoing project for many years, likely decades, as rust and wind and salt and sun takes its toll on the Tower.
The Tower has stood vigilant since 1964, though the light has not been continuously lit since 1992. Now it is lit when crew members and guests return to enjoy and work, to change Old Glory, and to experience a unique and thrilling stay with the birds, the fish, the turtles, the rays and spectacular sky displays.
There are few places in the world such as the Tower and with your help it will be around for years to come!
And this from WGNO TV:
34-miles offshore, ocean hotel offers solitude
POSTED 11:14 AM, JUNE 23, 2015, BY SMARLBROUGH, UPDATED AT 12:05PM, JUNE 23, 2015
http://wgno.com/2015/06/23/34-miles-offshore-ocean-hotel-offers-solitude/
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Jun 18, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
BoatUS Media Alert: NC Legislature Proposes New Coastal Waters Fees
BoatUS remains the premiere advocate for boaters’ rights in all states and we are proud to have them as SPONSORS!
NEWS From BoatUS
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2015
Press Contact: D. Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
Chart showing the proposed new fees for North Carolina boaters and out-of-state anglers in coastal NC waters.

MEDIA ALERT: NC Legislators Looking to Charge Boaters New Fee
BoatUS Urges Boaters to be Heard
Would be Highest State-Imposed Charges on Boats in the US
THE ISSUE: As part of the current North Carolina budget debate, the state General Assembly is currently considering legislation that would impose a significant new user fee on all recreational boats 24 feet and longer that are used in coastal waters. For example, the costs proposed for the new North Carolina `Coastal Waterways User Identification Fee’ for a 25-foot boat would be $75, $128 for a 32-foot boat, and $200 for a 40-footer. This fee would also apply to any out-of-state vessel fishing in NC coastal waters. Combined with registration fees, the proposed Coastal Boat Fee would be the highest state-imposed charges on recreational boats nationwide.
The proposed fee would be in addition to current state registration fees, which were most recently increased in 2013 to fund dredging and lake weed control. To see a complete list of fees, go to: BoatUS.com/gov/ncfeechart.
ACTION NEEDED NOW: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) urges North Carolina boaters, anglers, and sailors to speak out now and contact their State Senator and Representative today and respectfully urge them to vote “No” on the `Coastal Waterways User Identification Number’ and associated user fee contained in the North Carolina Senate version of House Bill 97.
While the intended use of this fee is to increase funding for dredging of waterways and inlets, this budget proposal places too great a financial burden on recreational boaters. Ask your State Senator and Representative to consider other means to pay for dredging North Carolina’s coastal inlets and essential waterways. Access to the waterways brings substantial economic benefits to coastal communities. Maintaining them must be a shared responsibility.
The budget bill is now before the North Carolina General Assembly and will be voted on in the next few days. Boaters may easily contact their state legislator by going to: http://goo.gl/zWMTpx
ABOUT BOATUS: Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its over half million members with government representation, fighting against unfair federal taxes, fees and regulations that single out boat owners. It has over 20,000 North Carolina members. BoatUS is also non-partisan working on both sides of the aisle as well as with state agencies to promote boating laws that make sense.
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Mike Feeney - June 19, 2015 - 4:26 pm

It appears that a significant amount of the new fees would be to support dredging the ICW, inlets and other areas. I, as an out of state boater, don’t like seeing the NC boats pick up the tab for dredging the ICW since many out-of-state boaters use it on a regular basis.
A thought occurred to me that maybe the thing to do, and maybe in all ICW states, is to institute a “toll’ for use of the ICW that would support dredging in the ICW. It shouldn’t be too much, maybe $5 or $10, or boaters would bypass the state, if they could.
Reply to Mike
May 16, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 33.9171,-78.02829999
Good Words for Southport Marina, Southport, NC, AICW Statute Mile 309.5

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We have heard nothing but good things about these informative weather and navigation briefings presented “at the dock” at Southport Marina. See /?p=144528. A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Southport Marina is located just west of the Cape Fear River along the northern banks of the Waterway hard by flashing daybeacon #2A. Give them a try and like Skipper Jones, you’ll like it!
From AGLCA’s Forum:
Thanks, Foster, we did make several weather briefings at Southpoint while we waited for Ana to pass. We learned a great deal. Took notes and have used all his info to date. Excellent service Southport provides.
Donadee Jones
“Always Home”
DeFever 47 POC
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Southport Marina
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May 15, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Marlow-Mainship Now in the Carolinas, Intracoastal Yacht Sales
Intracoastal Yacht Sales, a long-time SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, offers full service brokerage representation from three locations, Wrightsville Beach, NC, Little River, SC and Charleston, SC.
New Yachts to the Carolinas!!
Is Proud to Announce
Nordic Tugs and NOW Marlow-Mainship to 3 Locations in North and South Carolina!
2 Great Lines
All single engine Diesels focusing on efficiency
Bow and stern Thrusters
Excellent for the Great Loop or coastal lifestyle
Models available in August
2016 Marlow-Mainship 31E $299,490
2016 Nordic Tugs 34 Pilot $379,400
www.intracoastalyachtsales.com
Charleston
@ Charleston City Marina
17 Lockwood Dr.
Charleston, SC 29401
OFFICE: 843-412-6587
FAX: 877-720-8698
Wrightsville Beach
@ WB Marina
10 Marina Street Suite A3
Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
OFFICE: 910-256-8803
FAX: 888-893-9755
Little River
@ Myrtle Beach Yacht Club
720 Hwy 17 – Suite 201
Little River, SC 29566
OFFICE: 843-340-0080
FAX: 888-566-5886
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May 14, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.545,-77.36079999
Need Propane ? Try Sneads Ferry Marinas, AICW Statute Mile 247

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Our thanks to Captain Jerry for sharing this information on obtaining propane. Sneads Ferry marinas have also always had a good reputation for lower fuel prices. Diesel is $2.45 at New River Marina as of May 12, 2015. See their directory listing below for weekly updated prices.
Just a note to staff; While traveling The ICW in North Carolina, at Mile Marker 247 there are two marinas where you can receive help filling or exchanging propane.
Propane Company in Sneads Ferry, N.C.
Refill or Exchange
Sneads Ferry LP Gas Company
777 HWY. 210
Sneads Ferry, N.C. 28460
(910) 327-2541
Village True Value Hardware in Sneads Ferry, N.C.
Exchange Only
Village True Value Hardware
2135 HWY. 172
Sneads Ferry, N.C. 28460
(910) 327-3646
New River Marina
104 James Rd.
Sneads Ferry, N.C. 28460
(910) 327- 2106
ICW Mile Marker 247
Swan Point Marina
123 Page St.
Sneads Ferry, N.C. 28460
(910) 327- 1081
ICW Mile Marker 247
Both of these Marinas are customer friendly and willing to help.
Captain Jerry
First Mate Jill
Vessel: MISS JILL
Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For New River Marina
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Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Swan Point Marina
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May 13, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment 34.2341,-77.94719999
More on Port City Marina’s Opening, Cape Fear River, Wilmington, NC

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Progress continues to be made toward the opening of this new SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Port City Marina, which will open for business in a few weeks along the eastern banks of the Cape Fear River, in the heart of downtown Wilmington, NC. See /?p=148108 for photos of the facilities.

BIG Announcement. We mean BIG.
Dear Boating Enthusiast:
We are thrilled to announce the marina opening is not far off!!!! We are finishing up the last minute touches, and are NOW accepting reservations. Our soft opening is June 5th, and we are gearing up for a grand opening later this summer. (Hint: Stay tuned for announcement and invite to our celebration).
We hate to brag, but our location can’t be beat! Did you know you will be able to step off your boat and walk right downtown or along the Cape Fear River on the Riverwalk? Our Downtown is quaint and offers boutique style shopping, lots of good eats, culture, and entertainment. Wrightsville Beach (just one of three nearby beaches) is just 15 minutes away if you want to enjoy a beach sunset or feel the sand on your toes. Need to travel — the Wilmington International Airport is just 5 minutes away from PCM. Whatever you want to do ‘“ Port City Marina is in the middle of it all.
Wilmington is thriving, and we have some really exciting (AND BIG) plans in the works for the marina. Sneak peeks can be found on our website www.portcitymarina.com. On our home page – scroll down to see a cool video of what’s happening at PCM!
Call to schedule a time to come and check us out at 910.251.6151 ‘“ or feel free to reach out directly to our staff.

Marina Manager
Pete Werling
Cell: 910.612.8810
Email: petew@portcitymarina.com

Dockmaster
Josh Alther
Cell: 443.871.1250
Email: josha@portcitymarina.com
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Ben - May 14, 2015 - 1:51 pm

I live in town and they are working much faster than before to transform the dusty construction site. I did see sprinklers out where they hope to grow grass, so hopefully progress continues. Gas pumps not yet installed and no marina building yet. I hope they have a plan to mitigate the construction dust, but this will be a nice place once fully filled out. Not sure how fast the area around them will be finished or constructed…
Reply to Ben
May 5, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.545,-77.36079999
Praise for Swan Point Marina and Boatyard, AICW Statute Mile 247

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Swan Point Marina guards the Waterway’s western banks, immediately south of the AICW/New River/New River Inlet Problem Stretch intersection, just north of marker #4. These good words for Swan Point Marina were posted by Skipper Schucker on AGLCA’s Forum.
Swan Point Marina is the place for you. Small, family run marina by Tina and her mom. Floating docks that hold 8 boats, good power, a little exciting to get into when the tide current is going, but hey, you are a Looper you can do this. Great dock help, cheap rates ($1.50 per foot, no electric up charge) and the cheapest fuel in NC is right next door.
Sold? But wait there is more! The Riverwalk Restaurant will send the manager over to pick you up. Great food, decent wine/beer selection, home made pies. We loved the free hush puppies, our steaks, blacked fish and two giant pork chops. Baked potatoes the size of a Westerbeke Oil filter. And they will cart your “in a food coma” body back to the marina. Get the pie to go. Don’t want to leave the boat? There is a great build it yourself pasta and pizza place that delivers.
Laundry? Got it covered. Local boaters to meet and swap tales with? Done. Great Sunset? Why of course, rain or shine the sun sets here every day!
Tina, the manager, just brought us a quart of strawberrys.
The perfect jump point to Beaufort, catch the bridge, watch the Marines do live fire across the ICW.
You loved the friendly family marinas in Canada, NY, down the Middle Rivers, in Florida and up the coast, this place ranks in the top 10.
Foster Schucker
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Swan Point Marina
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May 1, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.2341,-77.94719999
Port City Marina Opening Soon, Cape Fear River, Wilmington, NC

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Despite a number of delays, lots of progress has been made at this new SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Port City Marina, which will open for business in a few weeks along the eastern banks of the Cape Fear River, in the heart of downtown Wilmington, NC. See /?p=122272 for earlier reports.
Click Here for more pictures of the new facilities.
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Apr 27, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 35.1155,-75.98589999
Good Report from National Park Service Docks, Ocracoke, NC Pamlico Sound

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Last summer, the National Park Service Docks had closed in anticipation of Hurricane Arthur, see /?p=143288, but re-opened for business after having suffered only minimal damage from the storm. Now as Skipper Noel confirms, the docks and businesses in Ocracoke are all open.. Certainly good news for summer visitors to this beautiful village on the Outer Banks.
We are currently at the NPS docs and they are up and running. This is pre-season, but there have only been a few boats in and out. Dockage is $1.25 per foot per night, power is $2.00/$5.00. There is an updated sidewalk leading to the village. We had a great meal at Dajio and a great one at Eduardo’s Taco Truck. We enjoy the relaxed pre-season vibe on Ocracoke!
Katherine Noel
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Ocracoke National Park Service Docks
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Apr 26, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.5539,-77.35189999
Reminder of Perennial Shoaling at New River Inlet/AICW Problem Stretch Intersection, AICW Statute Mile 246

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The Waterway typically shoals either immediately north or south of the four-way intersection with New River and New River Inlet. Dredging at this intersection was last done in February of 2013. Skipper Johnson’s detailed comments were posted on AGLCA’s Forum and see /?p=142854 and /?p=146808 for more information and good advice for the New River Inlet area.
As you make your way northward to the rendezvous there are a couple of areas that warrant a caution. Both are always areas to be cautious, but this year are even worse than ever.
First, just as you pass by the Marinas in Sneads Ferry, NC (New River Marina, well known for cheap fuel, and Swan Point Marina) you come to the junction with the New River Inlet, where you make a sharp turn to the right. The shoaling, to a depth of less than 3 feet at low tide, is in the vicinity of markers 72 and 74. This is immediately before you reach the popular Mile Hammock Bay anchorage. Then a few miles later after you pass under the Onslow Beach Bridge, Browns Inlet is always a point of concern. Follow the markers very closely, erring to the west if you are in doubt.
Betsy Johnson
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For New River/New River Inlet
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Apr 22, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 1 Comment
Nordic Tugs Now in the Carolinas, Intracoastal Yacht Sales
Intracoastal Yacht Sales, a long-time SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, offers full service brokerage representation from three locations, Wrightsville Beach, NC, Little River, SC and Charleston, SC.

Intracoastal Yacht Sales is pleased to announce that we are now the exclusive dealer for Nordic Tugs in the both North and South Carolina!
For years boat cruising enthusiasts have had to travel out of state to find a fuel efficient trawler with a good reputation. That’s why we are so excited to offer the Nordic Tug brand to our customers! Finally a well built trawler available here in the Carolinas. With Nordic Tugs well known existing reputation for superior construction, and an increase in demand for new boats and fuel efficiency, our team is certain these boats will be a big hit on our east coast! Not only do climate controlled helms increase year round boating, but with their sharp entry and deep keel, her stability and seaworthiness ranks with the best ocean boats built today! Our Nordic Tug 42 was a big hit at the Charleston In-Water Boat Show! One great comment after another was made about the spaciousness and livability of the layouts. We are certain that if you compare these tugs with the competition, you will find a more stable and seaworthy vessel for your next expedition!
Nordic Tugs Cruising Yachts share a heritage that includes their distinctive profile, a hand-laid overbuilt hull and the famous Nordic Tug ship-style pilothouse. Wherever a Nordic Tug owner goes, they travel in comfort and security, safe in the knowledge their vessel is one of the most seaworthy cruisers on the market today! From the classic charm of the Nordic Tug 26 to the majestic elegance of the Nordic Tug 54, there is sure to be a Nordic Tug that is right for you!
Intracoastal Yacht Sales offers full service brokerage representation from three locations, Wrightsville Beach, NC, Little River, SC and Charleston, SC, and we are now are very proud to include Nordic Tugs customers to our growing list of good friends!! Check out our website at www.IntracoastalYachtSales.com or call Capt. Ric Stanley, Capt. Doug Ford, or Capt. Bobby Gregory for more information!
Capt. Doug Ford CPYB
Intracoastal Yacht Sales
720 Hwy 17 Suite 201
Little River, SC 29566
843-340-0080
888-566-5886 fax
dford@IntracoastalYachtSales.com
Capt. Ric Stanley, CPYB
Intracoastal Yacht Sales
910-297-4444 (cell)
888-893-9755 (fax)
rstanley@intracoastalyachtsales.com
26′-54′ Pilothouse Trawlers

2016 Nordic Tug 26
Custom Build your 2016 Today!
Diesel Power
Seaworthy and Stable
Sale Price $213,102

2016 Nordic Tug 34
Available in August 2015
Diesel Power
Separate Shower
Sale Price $334,039

2016 Nordic Tug 40
BRAND NEW MODEL!
4mpg at 8 knots
Sale Price $582,280

2004 Nordic Tug 42
In Charleston SC this Weekend!
4mpg at 8 knots
Only 180 Hours!
Sale Price $399,900

2016 Nordic Tug 54
Custom Build your 2016 Today!
Luxurious and Comfortable
Full Beam Midship MSR
Superior Construction
Sale Price $1,646,331
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Comments from Cruisers (1)

Ric Stanley - April 22, 2015 - 9:54 am

Thanks to everyone who came to visit us an the 42 Nordic Tug at the Charleston In Water Boat Show. It was a pleasure meeting and talking with all the Nordic Tug fans! What a great family of boaters!
Reply to Ric
Apr 3, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Eagles & Alligators in North and South Carolina
My family can second these recommendations on observing wildlife in South and North Carolina, as posted on AGLCA’s Forum. These sections are some of the prettiest passages in the Waterway. You can find charts to each the ICW miles given by using the “STATUTE MILE/LAT-LON WIDGET” at the top of our Homepage.
Going north on the ICW in South Carolina near mile 425 up through South Santee River keep your eyes peeled for several eagles who live in the area. Every single time we go through this area we see them. Next section is what I have deemed alligator alley is from North Santee River curve R16 through mile 416, one year in mid-May we spotted 18 on the banks and in the water. Also keep eyes open in the Waccamaw River from mile 385 to 377 we’ve spotted them in this section as well.
Pam & Eric on Pier Pressure
headed home to Beaufort, NC
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Mar 21, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 35.9095,-75.66869999
Video of Manteo Entrance Channel, Alternate Route to Alligator River

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With the Alligator River Swing Bridge closed to navigation, several of our most experienced sailors have offered alternate routes to avoid the Alligator River portion of the Waterway. See /?p=147457 and /?p=147463. One of those stops along the alternate route is Manteo, home of Manteo Waterfront Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
This video of Manteo’s entrance channel was sent to us by our friend and genuine “Old Salt” George Barr – you can trust his judgement! See George’s comments on this alternate route at /?p=147457.
Manteo Channel Entrance
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Manteo Waterfront Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Manteo, NC
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Mar 20, 2015by: Larry Dorminy No Comments 35.5422,-77.05829999
More on Alternates to Alligator River during the Swing Bridge Repairs

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With the frequent closures of the Alligator River Bridge, longtime contributors George Barr and Rick Brass offer alternatives to the Alligator River portion of the Waterway. Information on all the marinas mentioned below can be found on Cruisers’ Net’s Homepage under CRUISING NEWS AND REFERENCE DIRECTORIES – North Carolina. See /?p=147457 for more discussion of alternate routes.
To any northbound cruisers in the interim. The alternate route starts at Oriental ‘¦down the Neuse River and into the Pamlico Sound heading north.
Possible stops/marinas are Silver Lake in Ocracoke, Big Trout Marina in Englehard (45 miles from Oriental on the Western shore of the Pamlico), Manteo Waterfront Marina off Shallowbag Bay on Roanoke Island 45 miles from Big Trout’¦and then north through the Albemarle to Coinjock 35 miles away.
The passage is open and deep and has only one fully 65′ bridge and is 17 miles shorter than the ICW. Of course, weather must be considered as it is less protected. Hope this helps in the interim.
George Barr
If northbound cruisers are on a schedule during the bridge repairs, and need an alternate route, I would suggest leaving the ICW at the crossing of the Pamlico River (at about SM 150) and swing east. You will go through Pamlico Sound, with potential stops in Engelhart on the west side of the sound and Manteo on Roanoke Island, and return to Albemarle Sound and the ICW on the north side of Roanoke Island. Manteo, BTW, is a nice cruising destination and well worth the trip.
If you have time to wait for the bridge to be repaired and are looking for an hospitable spot to wait and explore, swing west about 25 miles on the Pamlico River and visit the Washington Waterfront Docks. Easy access with deep water slips. A number of good restaurants and places to explore. A good place to provision, with West Marine and a number of parts suppliers and repair opportunities. And if you need a free slip without power and water (but with nice heads and showers, and laundry facilities for boaters) you can mention this post and I will waive the 48 hour limit on free dockage.
Rick Brass
Dockmaster
Washington Waterfront Docks
Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Washington City Docks
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Washington City Docks
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Feb 28, 2015by: Larry Dorminy 4 Comments 34.6063,-77.23579999
More on Groundings at AICW/Browns Inlet intersection, Statute Mile 237

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With the reported groundings and marker confusion at this intersection (/?p=144468), it is definitely wise to follow the advice given below by Skipper Brass: “pay close attention to the charts and keep a watchful eye out for the markers ‘“ particularly the floating ones ‘“ instead of following the Magenta Line in this stretch of the ICW” - just as SSECN has advised by many months!
From a January 19 Navigation Alert:
On Saturday January 17, we experienced a hard grounding with bent shafts (2) and destroyed props (2) at this location. Knew about previous reports but marks were not where the deep water was. Strong current must have moved them. We are now on the hard waiting for shafts and props.Shame that this continuing problem is not addressed Our current bill is $26,000 to be removed back from the bar, and about $80,000 for shaft abd prop repairs! Navigation marks are not maintained!Douglas JemalJust happens that I may have been the next boat to pass the location of this grounding. At 10:20 AM on 17 January, I was delivering a boat to Charleston and came up on a large powerboat stopped in the middle of the ICW at 34-35.847N, 077-14.568W (34°35.8470N / 077°14.5680W, 34.597450 / -77.242800) . The stopped boat had passed us a few miles further North, headed southbound at around 20 knots.As I approached the spot, SeaTow came up and began setting up to unground the boat. It seemed to me that the boat had been on course directly from R60 to G63, which are the prominent daymarks before and after the inlet, and from the appearance of things the boat had been traveling pretty fast.This is a traditional problem area in the ICW, and both my Active Captain software and the Garmin plotter on the boat I was delivering sounded alarms for the hazard.Floating marks G61A and R62 were both in the location shown on my chart software, which is well over to the north side of the waterway (Starboard if you are heading south) and only about 75-100 feet from the shore. Made me quite nervous as we went by, but we saw 8 to 9 feet of depth in the channel at about an hour before local low tide.Object lesson is: pay close attention to the charts and keep a watchful eye out for the markers ‘“ particularly the floating ones ‘“ instead of following the Magenta Line in this stretch of the ICW.Rick BrassClick Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Browns Inlet Intersection Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Comments from Cruisers (4)

Susan Parker -  November 6, 2015 - 3:25 pm

Just went through here and did not see less than 6′ . Follow the marks and you’ll be fine.
Reply to Susan

Maureen Nemecek -  October 30, 2015 - 2:06 pm

We went aground about a mile beforeOnslow Beach Br, @239MP. Several boats are aground as I write this. Luckily with got off (4.5 draft)
Reply to Maureen

Bob423 -  October 16, 2015 - 4:34 pm

Came through 10/11/2015, honored the buoys and saw 7 MLW at the lowest. Saw one boat ahead of me that attempted to follow the magenta line but couldn’t get through, he turned and then followed me through successfully.
Reply to Bob423

Orient moon -  June 5, 2015 - 10:49 am

Came thru on June 4th and R61a was missing. This critical buoy is at the south end of S bend that should be about 50 ft off the red shoreline. Use extreme caution.
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