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    • Feb 1, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Good Advice for Navigating Motts Channel, Wrightsville Beach, NC, AICW Statute Mile 283.3

      Motts Channel - Click for Chartview

      The Motts Channel cuts into the southeastern/eastern flank of the AICW, a short hop south and southwest of the Wrightsville Beach Bascule Bridge, just past the host of marina facilities which congregate south of this span. This channel is often used by cruisers heading for Seapath Yacht Club, and on their way to and from the very popular anchorages on the Banks Channel, which comprises the eastern extreme of the Motts cut.
      Over the years, the west end of the Motts Channel, near markers #25 and #23, has shoaled and periodic dredging has been required. Captain Booke’s advice is in response to an earlier Navigation Alert for this channel, /?p=105878

      There is plenty of water coming off the ICW into Motts Channel if you put your boat against the southern shore. Mid Channel is usually shallow.
      Henry Booke

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

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    • Jan 31, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Boatyard Recommendations for Central NC Coast

      This discussion of mechanics and boatyards comes to us from our friends at Trawlers Forum (http://www.trawlerforum.com/) and, while the list contains both pros and cons, it does not reflect the opinion or endorsement of Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net. However, we invite you to add your favorite NC mechanic or boatyard to the list!

      For diesel repair, we have had a lot of great results with Coastal Diesel in New Bern. Prompt, on-time scheduling and a team of very good mechanics. They are basically a mobile service and will come to you. It can be pricey, but once it’s done, it’s done. They just rebuilt my mechanical injector pump last week and rebuilt my genset last year. Good bunch of guys.
      Deaton Yachts in Oriental is a good all-around yard. The complaints we’ve heard from there was that their time management isn’t that great. They have trouble meeting work deadlines. In disclosure, we have used their mobile service, but have not hauled out there. They have an onsite parts department and that’s a huge plus.
      Wayfarer’s Cove in Arapahoe, NC is a good general yard. It’s a bit isolated from civilization and the yard, with its dirt lot instead of gravel, leaves you boat very dirty, plus, power hook-us are spotty. They have one of the best fiberglass guys in the area that works there. Tom runs the place quite well and is an honest guy. He will quote you a price and stick to it. If he falls short anywhere, it’s that he’s a bit edgy and sometimes hard to get in touch with. No email either.
      I have called Bach Marine on several occasions, but have never used them. They always came in with the highest quotes and Kenny, while very knowledgeable, I have felt that I would have the same issues that I have with Sailcraft. Just a bit too “old school” with billing and communication.
      Our new guys are True World Marine and Lightning Yachts. Both are boat builders (or former). They are both located in the marine industrial park where Jarret Bay is. True World is a very neat and well kept yard with good power and new facilities. Lightning Yachts is a repair place just up the road that can do about anything with boats. Both respond quickly to emails and will take the time needed on the phone to make sure all bases are covered.
      Chuck Courtney is a mobile guy (Power and Sailboat Repair). He’s a good honest guy, but is very busy. I have used him a couple of times and he’s been good. I don’t think he’s the best engine guy (I would use Coastal for that), but he’s an good electrical guy.
      If you want to do some snooping around, go visit Morehead City Yacht Basin and see who’s working on the boats there. Ask Mike (dockmaster) and ask for some recos.
      Hope this helps.
      Tom & Bess Beaty
      m/v Skinny Dippin’

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    • Jan 29, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Severe Grounding at AICW/Mason Inlet Intersection, Statute Mile 280

      AICW/Mason Inlet - Click for Chartview

      The SSECN has imposed a “Navigation Alert” for the intersection of the AICW and Mason Inlet since August 5, 2013, and a warning has appeared concerning these waters in a USCG Local Notice to Mariners (see /?p=120325). We have had also several additional reports of shoaling on these troubled waters since our Nav. Alert was issued (see /?p=127818). Below, Captain Sonia and crew confirm the need for extreme caution in any passage through the Waterway/Mason Inlet intersection.

      We grounded there with a 5,5ft draft. While our rudder was free, our keel was stuck and our depth sounder showed 5 ft. We could however not move. We were towed by Seatow and fell onto our side and was towed for about 60 feet on our side before stabilizing. Our rudder was bent and our boat twisted, which resulted in serious damage. As we understood from both Seatow and Boatus, the barges create pockets with walls over an extended area. Be very careful and pass within 20 feet of the docks [red side].
      Sonia

      Not having been there I can’t speak for this particular grounding, but in many similar situations I have seen and been involved in on the ICW the best course of action when aground is to put an anchor out towards deep water and wait for tidal help before trying to get off. Near Mason Inlet there is usually at least 3 or 4 feet of tide. Many times I have pulled my own boat off of groundings with no damage by doing this. Often you can pull the bow around towards deeper water as the tide helps and then winch yourself in the right direction. Generally, within the ICW you are sheltered from wave action and there is no great danger in simply waiting. On the other hand, trying to tow a boat off that is hard aground often leads to damage. Of course if the boat hit near high tide and/or you are in an exposed location that would alter your choices.
      John Kettlewell

      We came through this area, southbound about one hour after low water on 1/23/2014. We were aware that this was a problem area and were moving very slowly. As we proceeded the depth started to decrease very rapidly. We kept moving towards the red side and finally found enough water, we draw about 3 1/2 feet, to get thru. We did kiss the bottom once. This is not the place to be at low water.
      David Boxmeyer

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position at Mason Inlet

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    • Jan 29, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      High Praise for Spoon River Restaurant, Belhaven, NC, AICW Statute Mile 136

      Belhaven Waterfront - Click for Chartview

      These reviews of Spoon River restaurant come to us from our friends at Cruisers Forum (http://www.cruisersforum.com/). Spoon River Restaurant has only been in business a little over a year and is open seven days a week. They are located just off the waterfront and are listed as:
      Spoon River Artworks and Market
      263 Pamlico St, Belhaven, NC ‘Ž
      (252) 945-3899
      And their Facebook address is:
      https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spoon-River-Artworks-and-Market/471584979558789

      My wife and I just had dinner at Spoon River restaurant in Belhaven, NC.
      It was one of the top 5 meals I have ever had a chance to sit down to. To put things into perspective, I regularly eat at the finest chophouses and seafood restaurants in the world entertaining clients and enjoying the fruits of our sales channels…. on the company dime… DC, NY, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Philly, DC, London, MX City, Paris, Nairobi, Dar Es Salaam, Dubai, etc… So, we spare no expense. I am a snob and this makes me highly qualified in this regard
      The encore to this awesome meal was the pricing which BLEW us away. For 2 person meal that would have easily cost us 250 in DC, including a very good bottle of wine, full meals, and deserts that were so big we could not finish them…. 75.
      So, we highly recommend the unexpected pleasure in Belhaven.
      Zboss

      We live nearby and can second that report.
      We had lunch there this fall and were quite impressed both with the food, and with the reasonable prices.
      My only suggestion would be for an improvement in the wait staff. The young gentleman that served us could certainly have been more attentive.
      Still highly recommended!
      redsky49

      We had three meals at Spoon River (northbound in the spring and back in the fall) and we are just constantly amazed by the quality, presentation and service they provide. Small town, BIG surprise. We will be back.
      Win Benbow

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Carol Whitehead -  July 19, 2015 - 4:31 pm

        We had dinner at Spoon River last night and it was undoubtedly the best meal we have ever enjoyed. The menu choices and the food are excellent. The waitstaff are excellent and well trained. All in all a very pleasant evening. I would give them five stars!

        Reply to Carol
    • Jan 23, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      High Praise for Sailcraft Service Boatyard, Oriental, NC, AICW Statute Mile 181

      Whitaker Creek – Click for Chartview

      Sailcraft Service Boatyard is a full service boatyard located at 1218 Lupton Dr, Oriental, NC 28571, (252) 249-0522. www.sailcraftserviceboatyard.com/
      The yard lies on the western side of Whitaker Creek, just east of Oriental Harbor.’Ž

      I have traveled down the AICW for the past four years from Northport ny to fla. I have a catalina c 400 2005 sail, mystical paradise’¦ I stop by every trip to have all my maintenance work done at sailcraft service in whittaker creek oriental nc. the service provided and the facilities are fantastic. from the owner manager Alan to the mechanics and office crew Shannon etc, the quality of service is phenominal.. it is a full service or do it yourself yard. prices are fair quality is tops. THe yard is walking distance of everything in town. They occasionaly lend a support vehicle in extreme cases. Tony Pozun NY

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

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    • Jan 19, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Pumpout Log Required or Enforced in NC?

      If you have any recent information about NC’s log requirement, let us hear from you. Apropos to this discussion is the new Key West regulation requiring a pumpout log (/?p=133955). And apropos to both situations is this ongoing discussion on Trawler Forum concerning a pumpout log requirement – or lack thereof – in NC. Got to: http://www.trawlerforum.com/forums/s27/nc-pumpout-log-13076.html

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    • Jan 11, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for South Harbour Village Marina, AICW Statute Mile 312

      South Harbor Village Marina - Click for Chartview

      Here are good words for South Harbour Village Marina from the Skipper of Second Base, as originally posted on Cruisers’ Forum. South Harbour Village Marina is one of the southernmost marinas in NC, south of Southport.

      I gunk hole as much as I can to keep costs down. With a big cold front, I pulled in for a couple nights at South Harbor. It was a record low and despite the challenges the cold weather brought they take care of business no matter the conditions. This is a good stop for 3 things- waiting on the weather window coming in, or heading out, from Cape Fear, and catching a football game at the Dead End bar & grill which is right at the dock and open 7 days/nights even off-season. The other advantage is they are directly on the AICW and not one meter off the route. A welcome oasis after all the inevitable current and traffic on the Cape Fear River.
      When you get off the river, try to stay on the outer transient dock – get your fuel right there and enjoy the best, sunny views.
      SecondBase

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For South Harbor Village Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of South Harbour Village Marina

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    • Jan 8, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      S/V Primadonna Located in Bahamas

      A search for a number of weeks in response to a request (/?p=129228) by Oriental merchant, Pat Stockwell, has finally located the errant sailing vessel, Primadonna. Our thanks to Steve Petty for this story from TownDock, see http://towndock.net/on-the-cover/booby-primadonna.

      SV Primadonna has been located although the crew may have been detained:
      `SV Primadonna, aground at Booby Cay Island in the Bahamas. It is a tiny island of 300, not normally on tourist / cruiser lists. Apparently the vessel & crew entered the Bahamas without checking in with authorities. Pat Stockwell tells TownDock.net (http://www.TownDock.net) he was told the Primadonna crew may have been arrested ‘“ Bahamian authorities are harsher about the rules than they are in the USA. The photo was taken from a US Coast Guard helicopter ‘“ the Coast Guard patrols the Bahamas as part of a cooperation agreement with the Bahamas to fight drug trafficking. ‘ ‘”Towndock.net
      Steve Petty

      If this is the Booby Cay that is just a bit east of Rose Island, which in turn is east of Nassau, it isn’t all that remote and I suspect the Primadonna crew will be in the not-so-comfortable confines of Nassau jail. Unfortunately, one bad apple like this can severely impact the reputation of the entire cruising community, as we have seen with the so-called `derelict’ boat issue that has been used to create anti-anchoring ordinances in Florida and other places. When in reality the vast majority of the cruising community are themselves totally opposed to this type of behavior.
      John Kettlewell

      I doubt that these two would go anywhere near Nassau because of the entry fees into the Bahamas. I believe that they are aground between Booby Cay and Conception Island in the Bahamas. Conception Island is in a remote area and is a National Park in the Southern Bahamas. Very few cruisers visit.
      There are two anchorages off Conception Island, one is located South of Booby Cay. The entrance to this anchorage is from the Southwest. If they tried to enter from the Northeast, between Booby Cay and Conception Island, the route is very shallow and full of rocks.
      It’s too bad they did not sink in the really deep water a few miles from where they are. Word is that they were headed for Haiti or one of the French Islands. With any luck the Bahamas officials will confiscate their boat and throw them both in jail.
      The good news is that they are gone from the US and are now someone else’s problem.
      Dave Boxmeyer

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    • Jan 6, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy 1 Comment

      Praise for Belhaven Waterway Marina, Belhaven, NC, AICW Statute Mile 136

      Belhaven Waterway Marina - Click for Chartview

      Belhaven Waterway Marina is on the northeast side of the channel into Belhaven and Pantego Creek which lies to the west of Waterway statute mile 135.

      Stayed here on 12/31/13. This was our first stay here but it won’t be our last. I Like this marina best in the Belhaven area. Nice couple running this Marina and they keep it very clean. It’s right downtown with several restaurants close by. We spent New Year Eve at Jacks. It is a great restaurant and bar.
      Danny Styons

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Belhaven Waterway Marina

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

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Herb Seaton -  April 27, 2018 - 8:18 am

        I second the recommendation to stop at Bellhaven NC. There are several options for docking, FREE, or City @$1 foot or marinas outside, or my choice of Bellhaven Marina (252-944-0066 and they also take care of the $1 docks for the city). They have FREE washer/dryer/soap/dryer sheets/toilet paper/showers with fresh towels & soap/grills/scenic views! You are within a 5 minute walk of a big ACE hardware, Spoon River Artworks & Market restaurant (be sure to tell them to WAIT until after you’ve finished your salad to bring your entree), The Tavern w/music on weekends, Fish Hooks Cafe, Farm Boy’s restaurant (which it ain’t BUT have good short order food with a coded menu, and Georgie’s Sport & Oyster Bar (he helped tie me up in 20 mph wind when I came in, which could have been fun…. but wasn’t). This is a great place to spend a night or week in testy weather before you start up the Alligator River.
        Herb Seaton

        Reply to Herb
    • Jan 6, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report from Alligator River/Bear Point Anchorage, AICW Statute Mile 103

      Alligator River/Bear Point Anchorage - Click for Chartview

      Alligator River/Bear Point Anchorage flanks the northern side of the Waterway, north of AICW markers #45 and #47. The anchorage lies east of the northern entrance to the Alligator River-Pungo River Canal portion of the Waterway.

      We anchored here on 12/30/13. It was our second time anchoring in this spot. I really like this spot for the fact its right off the waterway. Just pull over between red beacon #46 and Bear Point. It is a muddy bottom and we were in 7 ft. of water. However both times we were there it was calm winds. I wouldn’t anchor here with strong winds from the south,east or west.
      Danny Styons

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Alligator River/Bear Point Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Alligator River/Bear Point Anchorage

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    • Jan 5, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for Southport Marina, Southport, NC, AICW Statute Mile 309.5

      Southport MarinaSouthport Marina, a much valued SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, lies just west of the Cape Fear River along the northern banks of the Waterway hard by flashing daybeacon #2A.

      I cannot say enough positive things about Southport Marina. I have been here for almost three weeks and will be here for a couple more as well. All of the staff are attentive, professional and pleasant. Excellent facilities, a short 10 minute walk into the heart of downtown Southport and a myriad of services available. Highly recommended for one night, a week or longer ‘“ and will return!
      Jay Kuhn

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Southport Marina

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

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    • Jan 4, 2014by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      News from Chowan County Tourism Development Authority

      News from Chowan County Tourism Development Authority

       

      Historic Edenton State Historic SiteHistoric Edenton State Historic Site

      108 North Broad Street
      Open Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm
      252-482-2637
      Free admission/Fee for Guided Walking and Trolley Tours
      January
      2 – 31
      “Family Connections”
      Themed tours of the Iredell House and Cupola House

      Chowan Arts Council Cabin Fever

      504 South Broad Street
      Open Monday – Friday, 11 am – 4 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 10 am – 2 pm
      252-482-8005
      January
      2 – 31
      Shoppers Sale, Get out, Have some fun, Find great bargains

      The Barker House The Barker House

      505 South Broad Street
      Open Daily 10 am – 4 pm
      252-482-7800
      January 6 – 1/31 closed for repairs to the first floor
      2/1/2014
      Open as Edenton and Chowan County’s welcome center

      The Cupola House

      408 South Broad Street
      January 6 – 1/31 Open Monday – Saturday 10 am – 3 pm and Sunday 11 am – 2 pm
      1582 National Historic Landmark operating as interim welcome center

      Chowan Golf and Country Club

      1101 West Sound Shore Drive
      252-482-3606
      Waterfront Golfing/Event and Weddings

      Canoe and Kayak Rentals

      Edenton Harbor Town DockCanoe and Kayak Rentals
      Colonial Park South Broad Street
      252-482-2832

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    • Dec 17, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Hearty Endorsement of Carolina Yacht Care (Southport, NC – Statute Mile 309)

      Carolina Yacht CareWow, what a great endorsement of SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Carolina Yacht Care, based in Southport, NC! If you are anywhere near Southport, and you need yacht services, NOW YOU KNOW WHO TO CALL!!!!

      While transiting to Miami from the Chesapeake on MV The Gator, my Outer Reef 65, I had the good fortune to stop in at Southport, NC. Southport is a quaint, friendly town with excellent marina facilities. We stayed at Southport Marina. While there we needed a ride to a laundry facility and were referred by marina staff to Hank Pomeranz of Carolina Yacht Care (cYc) who, in addition to other services, runs a shuttle from area marinas. The shuttle is on demand and inexpensive and we used it several times.
      During our shuttle runs we learned that cYc provides a host of services for transient boaters. One of those services is monitoring boats when owners are unavailable. So, when weather interrupted our plans to continue south and with Thanksgiving drawing close, I left The Gator in their hands for 10 days over the holiday, during which time they monitored the boat daily, made adjustments and kept me informed of her status. We were in touch almost daily and I had the sense that they were looking after The Gator as if she were their own.
      As happens, the delay also impacted my crews’ availability and I found myself without crew to finish the trip. I called Hank and asked if cYc might be able to provide crew. While this was not an advertised service, Hank adjusted his schedule and crewed for me himself. His competency and professionalism underway during the four day transit were typical of the same levels of service he applies to the other aspects of his business. I suspect his 30 plus years in the Navy and experience as a cruising sailor contribute a great deal to his expertise, level of detail and professionalism.
      It is rare when you can truly find a single business dedicated to every need of the transient community and with a singular focus on customer service.
      In short, I would strongly endorse Hank and his crew at Carolina Yacht Care to any transient boater needing services in the Southport, NC area.
      Jim Hammel
      Owner/Captain, The Gator
      Outer reef 65

      As the Marina Manager at South Harbour Marina in Southport I also heartily endorse Hank @ Carolina Yacht Care. Our laundry is right at the end of the dock but we have also used Hank for his shuttle and other services. He is dependable, professional, and his extra customer service efforts certainly makes my marina look good too! He can be trusted to give my customers good value.
      Bill Gregory

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Southport Marina

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

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    • Dec 15, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Report from Little Alligator River Anchorage, AICW Statute Mile 82

      Little Alligator River is the northernmost AICW anchorage, short of the often choppy (read that as “downright rough”) Albemarle Sound. Of course, you can always choose to berth at Alligator River Marina, just north of the bridge (a. k. a. “Miss Wanda’s place), or, on the opposite banks, “South Lake” is a real possibility as well.

      Spent a night here in Oct. 2013. We had a NE wind about 15 knts. so we went all the way in just around Rocky pt. and anchored in 7 ft. of water. Had no problems. Two other boats spent the night with us. Did have lots of crab pots at the mouth. Just follow your chart plotter and the depths will match whats on the chart. At least my did. All in all I would rate this as a good anchorage.
      Danny Styons

      Claiborne, We often use this anchorage and prefer to anchor past Mill Point in the 8 foot area for better protection. We have sat out some nasty weather here comfortably.
      Chuck and Susan. Trawler Beach House

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Little Alligator River Anchorage

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

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Alligator River Marina

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

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    • Dec 11, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      USACE Maintenance of NC Inlets to Resume

      Carolina Beach Inlet/AICW Intersection - Click for Chartview

      This agreement between USACE and the NC DNR is certainly good news for cruisers since the inlet intersections with the Waterway have always been notorious areas for shoaling. The article below is from the Port City Daily of Wilmington, NC and was sent to us by Captain Tom Beaty. For the complete story, go to: http://portcitydaily.com/2013/12/10/state-federal-agreement-lands-to-keep-shallow-draft-inlets-open/

      Aerial of Carolina Beach Inlet. Credit: Google Maps.

      North Carolina and the federal government have finalized a deal to continue dredging in shallow navigation sites like Carolina Beach Inlet and the Shallotte River, touted as crucial components of the coast’s economy.
      Announced Tuesday between the N.C. Department of Environment & Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), it provides an outline for resumed maintenance of federally authorized shallow-draft inlets and channels through September 2017.

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Carolina Beach Inlet Intersection

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

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    • Dec 7, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Oriental Merchant Requests Your Aid, Oriental, NC, AICW Statute Mile 181

      Click Charlet Above to Open a Chart View Page Centered on Oriental

      The owners of Inland Waterway Treasure Company in Oriental are seeking to determine the location of a vessel that until recently was anchored in Oriental Harbor and subsequently was towed to Morehead City. The red sailing vessel, PrimaDonna (see link below for photo), has since left the Morehead City area and its whereabouts are unknown. If you can assist in locating this vessel, do not contact SSECN, but please contact Pat or Laurie Stockwell directly at 252-249-1797 or IWPC@dockline.net.

      Claiborne,
      Good morning! It’s Paul Fairbank, The Boonedocks, Oriental.
      I don’t know if you have heard of the problems here with a French boat, Primadonna. The owners left this eyesore at anchor in our town harbor for over a year, managed to swindle a local do-gooder out of nearly $3000 and left to avoid a small claims judgment.
      The search is on for Primadonna.!!
      The full story from Towndock at http://towndock.net/news/have-you-seen-primadonna
      Perhaps your readers could help. It might even save them some grief.
      Thanks,
      Paul Fairbank
      The Boonedocks
      Sent by PAUL FAIRBANK
      From “Paul’s Bunker,” at VILLAGE HARDWARE & MARINE SUPPLY
      DO IT BEST No. 3444
      ORIENTAL, NC 28571
      (252) 249-1211

      There may be two sides to this story but the articles are fairly clear. I do hope they can resolve the issue. Another reminder to not co-sign checks or loan money.
      Sonny

      Please let me know when you have the fund raising for Pat. I will be sending money. A person as nice as Pat should never have this happen to him. I am proud to call him friend.
      Vicki Willis

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    • Dec 3, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Praise for R. E. Mayo Seafood Docks, AICW Statute Mile 157

      R E Mayo Seafood Docks – Click for Chartview

      R. E. Mayo Docks

      In June of 2012, I cruised to R. E. Mayo Seafood Docks, one of our newest SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS. It was a very interesting visit indeed, and I think I can say without any fear of telling an inaccuracy, this is one of the most unique facilities that has ever chosen to support our web site.

      I’ve worked out of Mayo’s many times in the past. Their ships store is not a `West Marine’, but rather more of a commercial fishing marine supply. It has always had what I needed to get the job done (ships husbandry-commercial diver). I highly recommend them for what your BOAT needs!
      Catfish Younce

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For R E Mayo Seafood Docks

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of R E Mayo Seafood Docks

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    • Nov 30, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Good Words for Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, AICW Alternate Route

      Set in beautiful Camden Count, NC, the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center provides free dockage for cruisers' on the Dismal Swamp AICW Alternate Route

      Dismal Swamp Welcome Center - Click for Chartview

      The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, is located on the east shore of the Canal at Statute Mile 28. For the Center’s winter hours, see /?p=128131

      I have now been retired 3 years, after 23 years as Director of the Dismal Swamp Welcome Center. I want to thank each and everyone who choose to travel the Dismal Swamp Canal. I realize the dockage is small but most the time it will meet your needs. It is the only place where you can witness nature at its best and learn of its history. Bike rides are available, clean restrooms and grounds. Try it once and I promise you will return’¦’¦..’Happy Cruising’
      Penny Leary-Smith

      The Welcome Center has provided so much needed respite over the years while cruising. The staff certainly are always very informative, and encouraging no matter what time of the day we have visited. Its great to have ‘˜the Dismal Swamp’ available to us; such a blessful experience ‘“ its like riding down a country lane viewing nature in its natural sitting. For me its a ‘˜slice’ of America, kinda like Yellowstone (a piece of history that I wish everyone could experience). My husband as well as fellow cruisers we know, are praying that tax dollars don’t ever allow it to go away. We encourage everyone to try it ‘“ along with a stop by to talk with Robert Peak & say `Hello’ to his pal, `U-Turn’; since he’s an extremely sweet pet, you might wish to have a doggie treat ready.
      Ginger Thompson

      Penny,
      Thank you for all you have done. This applies to all your staff as well. It has always been one of our favorite stops.
      Jim and Sandy Davis
      S/V Isa Lei

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

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    • Nov 26, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Divergent Thoughts on Cruising the AICW Dismal Swamp Alternate Route

      Set in beautiful Camden Count, NC, the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center provides free dockage for cruisers' on the Dismal Swamp AICW Alternate Route

      Dismal Swamp Welcome Center - Click for Chartview

      The recent closure of the Great Bridge Lock, which temporarily made the AICW Dismal Swamp Canal Alternate Route the only inland option, has prompted discussion of the Dismal Swamp’s cruising characteristics, good and less than good.

      I am curious as to why our members are concerned about the Great Bridge Lock being closed. There is enough water and the locks are open on the Dismal Swamp Canal and the passage is prettier than the Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal. We have traversed both many times and prefer the Dismal.
      It’s true that there are more marinas on the C and A and you may have to run a generator at Elizabeth City or at the anchorage above the E. C. bridge but the distance is the same for each passage. True the lower Pasquotank River is open to the wind but then so is Currituck Sound.
      Jim Bertch

      Jim, rarely do I disagree with you, but this time I do! It cost us a pretty penny last time we went through and we’ve been there and done that, and we now prefer the Virginia Cut. OHH and BTW it appears that the Great Bridge Lock is open again. No word on whether it is permanently fixed or what, but right now they are operating on a normal schedule!
      Hans

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

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    • Nov 26, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Dismal Swamp Canal AICW Alternate Route Versus the North Carolina – Virginia Cut Route Primary AICW Passage

      Set in beautiful Camden Count, NC, the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center provides free dockage for cruisers' on the Dismal Swamp AICW Alternate Route

      Dismal Swamp Welcome Center - Click for Chartview

      The recent closure of the Great Bridge Lock, which temporarily made the Dismal Swamp Canal AICW Alternate Route the only inland option, prompted this discussion of the Dismal Swamp versus the North Carolina – Virginia Cut (a. k. a. the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal) on the AGLCA Forum.

      Obviously each boater makes their own decisions but the Dismal is my absolute preference over the Va Cut. that said I am a shallow draft boat (3′) and have keel protected props. I have found that there are different risks for both routes depending upon your individual boat. We always thump something coming thru the Dismal but so far no damage, and also the Pungo for that matter. The Va Cut bridges are difficult for us to time, as we are a slow boat so we are often waked badly by inconsiderate captains on large yachts transiting the Va. Cut making a schedule. There is commercial traffic on the cut as well and the long narrow channel reach across the Carrituck Sound in weather can be a real bear. I also find that the approaches to the bridges on the upper end of the Virginia Cut has it’s dangers with the stumps lining that narrow channel. Often not visible until they poke out from a wake trough.
      So for us the very protected easy relaxing transit of the Dismal is the attraction and it has many more anchoring/docking options than the cut. When weather blocks the crossing of the Albemarle we often hang out at Elizabeth’s (sometimes referred to as Robert’s) Dock between the Swing bridge and the deep creek lock chamber. Deep water extremely protected free dock with easy walking to the town that has everything the cruiser could require in the adjacent shopping Center. No electric and sometimes you can get water if the tap is on. We prefer this spot to trying to jam into Elizabeth City among a backlog of boats trying to wait a weather window.
      Again the decision is of course dependent upon your situation and boat.
      cruise safe, stay warm but have fun

      We agree whole heartedly in preferring the Dismal Swamp route over the Dreadful Currituck Sound route. In our dozen cruises along the east coast we’ve visited the canal 10 times (leaving 2 for the Dreadful route). Same reasons mentioned in the above article, plus the canal and the river leading to it from Elizabeth City is beautiful and unhurried. We’ve never had an issue with our four foot draft. The new nature center is worth a visit.
      Bob McLeran/Judy Young

      Absolutely agree with the comments above. Add that a visit with Robert Peak, lockmaster at Deep Creek is one of the pleasures of the trip. For a small adventure, take the dinghy, canoe or kayak up the feeder ditch, use the marine railway to get it to lake level and enjoy the almost perfect roundness and natural beauty of Lake Drummond (just be sure to note a landmark so you can find your way back off the lake).
      If you visit the state park and walk or bicycle on the trails, take seriously the warning about Lyme disease carrying deer ticks. We didn’t and had multiple tick bites resulting in a round of antibiotics when we reached home a few days later.
      Jean Thomason

      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

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