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    • Jul 30, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Mile Hammock Bay Anchorage (Statute Mile 244.5)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following quesiton:

      47. West, northwest of marker #65A, the AICW begins it approach to an intersection with New River and New River Inlet. Before reaching this crucial intersection, cruisers can usually cut off and anchor on Mile Hammock Bay, near Statute Mile 244.5. Lately, US Marine Corps maneuvers have prevented mariners from anchoring on these waters. The adjacent land is part of the huge Camp Lejeune Marine Base. Who has tried to anchor on Mile Hammock Bay? Were you allowed to drop the hook? Was it a secure overnight stop?

      Responses follow:

      Anchored there mid July this year without any hassle from the military. Two other sailboats were there ahead of us. Last year passing through that area we were delayed (the ICW was closed) due to military maneuvers. Kind of interesting to watch but glad it wasn’t in the sweltering heat.
      Pat Cummins, s/v Kentris

      We did spend an eveing in Mile Hammock Bay. The 2 sailboats nor we had any holding issues but another trawler who was using nylon rode and not enough of it dragged aground after spending almost 2 hrs trying to set his anchor and gave SeaTow some b’ness. He was scary and we wanted him to experience the security of a marina for the nite but he gave it another go and used 2 anchors which worked well.
      Bill & Laura Bender
      M/VKindred Spirit III


      Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For Mile Hammock Bay

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    • Jul 28, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      A Pleasant Visit to Belhaven (Statute Mile 135.5)

      Belhaven Waterway Marina is located on Pantego Creek in Belhaven Harbor at the 135 Mile marker on the Intracoastal Waterway We are in the center of downtown Belhaven just a short walk from the Hardwar Yes indeed, Belhaven is, in my humble opinion, a fine stop on the AICW, and with Brenda and Les, waiting to greet cruisers at Belhaven Waterway Marina, (A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR), you be be assured of a warm and knowledgable welcome. If you’re not as luck as to run into a special community dinner, check out the adjacent firms, “Wine and Words” and “Back Bay Cafe.”

      The USCG annouced warnings for tropical storm Cristobal, so we decided to stop over at Bellhaven. This turn out to be a great decision because they were having there annual “Pirates on the Pungo” Festivities. We went into town and enjoyed a wonderful seafood buffet in support of the local hospital. We were then entertained by the Craig Woolard band. Beach music at its best. We ended up walking back to the marina late that night. It was great walking through that old town. We reminised about our almost 30 day trip, 650 miles logged.
      Clif & Peta Lewis
      s/v Immanuel

      We agree. Very warm and hospitable folks. We arrived on Wednesday so Gerogies was closed. Darn!
      Dave on GB 46 At Last

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

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Wrightsville Beach Marina (Statute Mile 280)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolian Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      51. Just southwest of the principal Wrightsville waterfront, mariners can turn southeast into the Motts Channel. This shoal prone passage leads to a good marina, and the best anchorage in the area. However, as hinted at above, Motts is subject to shoaling, and has to be dredged regularly. Who has cruised this passage within the last several months? What depths did you discover.

      Responses follow:

      Spent next night in Wrightsville Beach Marina just south of the bridge. Very nice facility but had lots of current to deal with when docking. Helpful dockhand got us in as we had no thruster due to electrical failure. Had very good meal in seafood restuarant adjacent to marina. There was also a small breakfast place right across the street that was recommended to us but we did not get to.
      Thanks for a great website.
      John Thayer
      M/V Anna Suzanne

      Click Here For More Information Concerning Wrightsville Beach Marina

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Little Alligator River Anchorage (Statute Mile 82)

      The entrance to Little Alligator River, lies along its larger sister’s western banks, north of Alligator River Marina and Bridge. I really like this little anchor down spot, but the entrance channel is entirely unmarked. The use of a GPS chartplotter while entering this haven would be a very good idea indeed.

      Spent the night on the hook in Little Alligator River, behind Sandy Point (St M 81). Anchorage; easy to get in, plenty of water and all to ourselves, but wind switched hard out of NE in early AM and got messy in there. Our fault for not heeding forecasted front.
      John Thayer
      M/V Anna Suzanne

      Click Here For More Information Concerning the Little Alligator River Anchorage

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Banks Channel Anchorage (Wrightsville Beach, Statute Mile 280)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      53. The Motts Channel eventually leads southeast to the Banks Channel. Here you will find many vessels anchored south of the 8-foot fixed bridge. Who has dropped the hook here? Did you find and make use of the nearby dinghy dock? Can anyone give us some shoreside dining and shopping recommendations.

      Responses follow:

      Banks Channel anchorage is fun because there are boats from all over. The dinghy dock is good for going ashore.
      Wright and Gladys Anderson
      First & Ten

      We anchored in Wrightsville Beach across from the ‘¦not RUM Runner’¦but some kind of ‘˜Runner’ and took advantage of city’s very nice dinghy dock, were able to use our bikes’¦and rode to West Marine
      Bill & Laura Bender
      M/VKindred Spirit III

      We were a week late getting to Wrightsville Beach, (due to extending our stay by a week at Barefoot Landing Resort Marina, arriving on the 3rd of July. Unfortunately, I forgot about the holiday weekend and didn’t have a marina reservation. We anchored south of the 8-foot bridge. Not having a dingy, we were boat-locked but had a wonderful time anyway. Went swimming by the boat to enjoy the beautiful blue water. Many boats were in the anchorage. One could almost walk from boat to boat.
      Perry & Kathy Sellars
      M/V Marsh Mellow

      We have anchored there and found the holding good. The dinghy dock is excellent. A short walk to a small grocery/wine/beer shop. A longer walk to Motts Channel Seafood, but they have a dinghy dock for customers. Excellent seafood.
      James Lea

      Click Here For More Information Concerning the Banks Channel Anchorage

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Upper Pungo River Anchorages (off the AICW, near Statute Mile 127.5)

      On 7/23/07, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      23. Moving farther to the south, on the AICW, the Waterway enters the northern portion of the Pungo River, west of the high-rise Wilkerson Bridge. We have always found superb anchorage on the northernmost section of the Pungo, bypassed by the AICW. Anyone else dropped the hook here lately? Did you have a good experience?

      Responses follow:

      Pungo River we have stopped every year since 2006 including 7/23/2009. We just clear the channel if calm or go up farther is windy.
      Wright and Gladys Anderson
      First & Ten


      Click Here For More Information Concerning Upper Pungo River Anchorages

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Buck Island Anchorages (Statute Mile 56)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      9. South of Coinjock, the AICW soon enters North River, on its way to Albemarle Sound. Along the way, several anchorages are available near Buck Island (Statute Mile 56). Who has dropped the hook here within the last several years? What did you find? Was this a good overnight stop for you?

      Responses follow:

      Buck Island is on our list of favorites because we carry a crab pot and always catch some when we anchor here. We were here 9/10/06, 5/19/07, 8/31/08 and will be back soon.
      Wright and Gladys Anderson
      First & Ten


      Click Here For More Information Concerning the Buck Island Anchorages

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cooling Canal Anchorage (Statute Mile 311)

      On 7/23/09, as part if a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      63. It is also possible to break off to the north near marker #8, and anchor on the `cooling canal’ which is used by the nearby nuclear power plant. Over the years, I’ve had varying reports about depths entering this anchorage. Who has dropped their hook on the cooling canal? Did you note any shallower depths on the way upstream?

      Responses follow:

      I stayed in the “Canal” – got caught in a 60 mph TS which beached 4 boats and lightning punched 4 holes in a nearby catamaran hull which took a bit of fixing to get them to a boatyard for urgent repair. It was a wikd evening! The bottom is slippy and very hard to get a reliable mooring. On the other hand it is a nice spot adjacent to a park with toilets and a good dinghy landing. The Ace Harware not far away is special in that it carries many marine parts – I managed to get a water pump impeller for my Yanmar diesel there
      Best wishes
      Arnold Parkinson
      The British Club Worldwide
      www.britishclubworldwide.com

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Cape Lookout Anchorage (off Beaufort Inlet)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      41. From Morehead City and Beaufort, cruisers can take a short trip out into the briny blue by way of Beaufort Inlet, and then track their way east to the state’s most popular anchorage, Cape Lookout Bight. Please share your memories, impressions and advice about anchoring in Cape Lookout Bight.

      Responses follow:

      At least a short visit is a must to Cape Lookout. Quiet but great beaches and safe mooring. Make sure your dog is on a leash or the fuzz will get you!
      Best wishes
      Arnold Parkinson
      The British Club Worldwide
      www.britishclubworldwide.com

      Cape Lookout is our favorite – much better than Chesapeake. We usually sail outside from Wrightsville to the Cape in about ten hours. A shark chased our line. Snorkled 7/20 and saw rays, sea urchins, zebra fish and found dozens of live lettered olives (we do not take live shells). Shelling is fantastic. Last year we collected whelk shells and ate oysters we collected at low tide.
      Wright and Gladys Anderson
      First & Ten

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    • Jul 27, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Alligator River Marina (Statute Mile 84)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      21. Finally, back to the AICW. From Albemarle Sound, the Waterway tracks its way south down broad Alligator River. There is already a HUGE discussion string on the Net about shoaling, plus marker and electronic charting problems at the intersection of the AICW and northern Alligator River. So, I won’t repeat that question here. However, just north of the Alligator River bridge, Alligator Marina guards the western banks. Who has stopped here recently? Please describe your experience.

      Responses follow:

      Alligator Marina has low priced fuel for sure. People very friendly. Store is more attuned to the road traffic than boats.
      Best wishes
      Arnold Parkinson
      The British Club Worldwide
      www.britishclubworldwide.com

      Stopped [at] Alligator River Marina couple years ago.. As we walked dog on leash we were told no dogs allowed.. wonder if that has changed since 03.
      Craig

      Click Here For More Information Concerning Alligator River Marina

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      A New Place to Stop on the Dismal Swamp Route

      Well, this is a new one on me. I have never before heard of spending the night on “the small wall by the Deep Creek Bridge.” Of course, this spot is in Virginia, and a little bit out of my area of expertise, but, hey, that doesn’t mean a thing since it appears this is a good place for cruising craft and their crews to berth!

      We now skip the delightful Visitors Center because we love stopping at the small wall by the Deep Creek bridge (just south of the lock on the east side). La Familia Restaurant is must stop for us, just a great family owned local Mexican restaurant. We have stopped there 4 times now, we like it that much. Plus across the street is a nice grocery where we can bring the shopping cart right back to the boat (and always return the cart so the next
      boaters can enjoy the same privileges). Robert, one of the lock keepers at Deep Creek is a hoot, if you tie-up at the long docks between the bridge & lock (Elizabeth’s Dock), he has been known to bring pastries by in the
      morning!
      Bob & Lynn Williamson
      On Legrace in the Erie Canal at Spencerport NY (enjoying this weekend’s
      canal festival)

      We have spent the night at the free dock just south of the Deep Creek Lock. An excellent stop if you catch the last lock of the day heading south. If full, rafting is expected. Quiet and small park for a stroll.
      James Lea

      We have also enjoyed several overnights at the Deep Creek Bridge. There’s even an auto parts store across the street where we were able to find a radiator hose that was a perfect fit for our Westerbeke 27. La Familia Restaurant is not to be missed; however, when we stopped there last month, we noted a homeless couple living in their car behind the restaurant. We were also approached by a couple of guys who appeared to be checking us out. Be sure to lock up when you leave your boat.
      We first encountered Robert at Deep Creek lock 4 or 5 years ago. He not only offered us coffee and pastries, but has also entertained us with his amazing skills on the conch horn. Be sure to check out his conch garden and, if you have one to spare, Robert would be most appreciative. By the way, if you are running late, give Robert a call (757-487-0831) – he very well may hold the lock opening for you if there is no one else waiting. And, as always, `tips are always appreciated’!
      Allan DeWall
      S/V Cat Rageous, Nonsuch 30U

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      New Cruiser Friendly Carry-Out Eaterie Opens in Oriental (Statute Mile 181)

      Sounds absolutely yummy. I’m sure all of us in the cruising community wish “Bama” the very best, and, please note, that until quite recently she was a live-aboard cruiser!

      Cruisers dropping anchor in Oriental, NC, and heading ashore for some grub now have a new option for mealtime provisioning. The VILLAGE FOOD EMPORIUM recently opened in an old blue house at the corner of Broad St. (Hwy. 55) and Church St., directly across from Town Hall and The Old Theater and between Captain’s Quarters Bed & Breakfast and the Inn at Oriental. Specializing in convenient and freshly prepared carry-out cuisine, they can be reached at 252-249-FOOD (3663) or www.villagefoodemporium.com.
      Their menu offers an array of made-to-order sandwiches and wraps (Ham & Cheese w/horseradish mayo, Grilled Vegetables w/goat cheese and pesto, Chicken Salad, Seafood Salad, and Roasted Pork Loin with Chipotle mayo). Dinner entrees recently included roasted Salmon w/horseradish mustard and honey, Shrimp Cocktail, Meatloaf w/Italian-Style Tomato Sauce, Chicken with Peaches, Ginger, and Basil, and similarly flavorful fare that’s not easy to come by in a galley of your own. There’s also a deli case filled with tasty side dishes, like Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans roasted w/garlic and Parmesan, and a large cooler with other delicious options for an impromptu meal on the boat, at a B&B, or perhaps for a picnic at nearby Lou Mac Park. You’ll find freshly made salads and fresh pineapple chunks in bio-degradeable containers, and chilled soft drinks, juices and mixers. Freshly brewed iced tea is another option. A selection of hand-picked wines and beers will also be added in the near future.
      Also available are loaves of freshly baked, crusty Italian bread and some of the finest cheeses you are likely to encounter on your voyage because the Village Food Emporium is the very first retailer of Artisanal Premium Cheeses in the entire south. For those not yet familiar with this company, Artisinal Premium Cheeses carry’s more than 200 types of hand-made cheeses made by talented Affineurs around the world. The cheeses are carefully aged and ripened in five cheese caves that lay underneath the firm’s Manhattan-based headquarters. From there, they are shipped overnight to retails locations in and around Manhattan and Long Island only–and now, to Oriental! Flavor starved sailors can also load up on specialty gourmet groceries and handmade gifts, including Saucy Sisters Russian Honey Mustard (winner of the 2008 World Mustard Competition), Recchiuti Chocolate, Harvest Song Peach, Apricot, and Green Walnut Preserves from Armenia, and whole bean, freshly roasted Organic coffee from Costa Rica.
      Proprietor Bama Lutes Deal dreampt up her business concept after spending 7 years in Oriental on a part- time basis. Living on her boat from December 2008 to April 2009, she personally supervised the renovation process, which required new wiring, plumbing, HVAC, floors, and the building of an inviting entrance deck. Deal then proceeded to nurse back the old fashioned garden of hydrangeas, clematis, and roses had lain fallow on the property for quite some time. The result is a peaceful, welcoming and homey little spot that emits intoxicating aromas from a brand new state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Customers can place food orders in advance by calling 252-249-FOOD (3663) or emailing BamaLutesDeal@aol.com. Or they can just drop in during regular business hours–Tu thru Sat, 11 am to 7 pm. The Emporium’s seasonal menu is updated each week, and special orders can often be accommodated with a bit of advanced notice.
      To find the Village Food Emporium from Oriental’s Town Dock, simply walk or drive north along Broad St. until the sidewalk ends, then cross Church St. and look for the only blue 2-story house w/ white trim on the right. The entrance which is off to the side, sports a brightly painted orange door. Enjoy!
      Bama Lutes Deal
      Owner, Manager
      Village Food Emporium
      702 Broad St.

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Captain Robert S. Viola -  August 13, 2009 - 9:01 pm

        We stopped in Oriental on our way North and spent two days there. The people in the ships store (sorry can’t think of their names) were so kind to us. They volunteered their car (we didn’t ask for it) to shop and go to the laundry. We were pleasantly surprised, but good people are everywhere, so why not in Oriental? I cannot recommend the place too highly – their Marina service and hospitality was terrific. We also had a damaged stbd water pump replaced by a local mechanic, arranged by the store people. His prices were very fair for both a new Jabsco water pump and labor ($310.00)
        Captain Bob Viola
        Trojan Tri-Cabin: “The Lady T”

        Reply to Captain
    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Seapath Yacht Club (Wrightsville Beach – Motts Channel – St. M. 283)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      52. Along Motts Channel, between markers #23 and #21, transient friendly Seapath Yacht Club guards the northerly banks. Who has berthed here? Please describe your experience. Any good eating places within walking distance

      Responses follow:

      Seapath Yacht Club was great (about $2/foot/day on the face dock in a no wake zone, with a beautiful marsh view). Friendly staff and boaters at the docks, with a nice courtesy van that you can use for an unlimited amount of time to shop or travel to a restaurant, provided there is no one else waiting for it. We were there for three weekdays so it was not an issue. There is a very nice (large) public park just across the street from the marina. Breakfast at the Causeway Café was very good, dinner at the Oceanic was great with a wonderful view of the Beach The Fish House Grill was also good, near the Intracoastal bridge. Nothing is what I would call within easy walking distance, though.
      Chuck Tontsch


      Click Here for More Information on Seapath Yacht Club

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Morehead City Yacht Basin (Statute Mile 203)

      Morehead City Yacht Basin On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      40. Just before the AICW crosses under the high-rise Newport River Bridge, south of marker #39, cruisers can take a turn to the west, and follow a marked channel to Morehead City Yacht Basin (a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR). I think this is a superb facility. Who else has stayed here? Please share your observations. Did you find any good dining spots within walking distance?

      Responses follow:

      We stayed at Morehead City Yacht Basin overnight before continuing to Masonboro Inlet the next morning. They are as friendly and accommodating as ever ($2/foot/day plus electric, but with a 10 percent BoatUS discount, very clean, well run facilities). We prefer this marina to getting entangled in the mass of boats and tourists at the Beaufort docks. Tried to eat at the closed-on-Monday Ruddy Duck because we heard it was exceptional, settled for the Sanitary Fish Market, which is good. In the past we have tried Floyd’s 1921 restaurant, the shortest walk of all, in an large old house visible across the water from the marina (also closed on Monday). The food there is very good, with a full service bar.
      Chuck Tontsch

      Took fuel and stayed at Morehead City next night – good spot, helpful staff & reasonable prices. Plenty of restuarants to choose from with easy walking distance. Also one Mini-Mart type store for basics but real groceries or hardware, etc are not in walking distance.
      John Thayer
      M/V Anna Suzanne

      Our previous stop was Morehead City Yacht Basin. We chose this marina based on your guide recommendations as well as first hand recommendations from a cruiser we met in Myrtle Beach, SC. We heard more than one negative comment regarding a marina in Beaufort, so decided to stay at MHYB. We spent a week both going north and returning south. Using the courtesy car from MCYB, we visited Beaufort, but enjoyed docking in Morehead.
      Mike and the other folks working there made our stay more than enjoyable. Such friendly people. The laundry facilities are great. The courtesy car, even though not free (10.00), was most helpful to drive to the newly opened Harris Teeter. We re-stocked our larder during both stays.
      On our trip up, we enjoyed lunch and dinner on the 4th at Floyd’s, just a few steps away from the Marina. Great food and friendly service. The restuarant offered access to the 2nd floor porch during dinner so we could view the fireworks, hence our eating two meals on the same day at the location. It was great to watch firework displays from both Atlantic Beach and Morehead City from such a position.
      If anyone is looking for a true NY deli, sample the New York Deli in Atlantic Beach. Small place, but great food. They also offer pasta and other italian dishes for lunch as well as a Friday night dinner. Very nice people. The Admiral stated this rueben had the “right stuff!”
      Perry & Kathy Sellars
      M/V Marsh Mellow

      Click Here For More Information About Morehead City Yacht Basin

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      Visiting Ocracoke and Silver Lake Harbor (Pamlico Sound)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      19. Probably Pamlico Sound’s most popular port of call is Silver Lake Harbor on Ocrocoke Island. This is still a great place to visit. Cruisers can choose between the US Park Service Docks, a private marina, or you can anchor out in Silver Lake. Who has visited Ocracoke? Did you dock or anchor? What did you find ashore? Please provide some Ocrocoke dining recommendations.

      Responses follow:

      We stayed in Ocracoke for four days the week of July 12. Arrived in a 30 knot southwester from Oriental and docked at the empty National Park Service Docks on the north end of Silver Lake (first-come-first-served, $1.25/foot/day and $3/day for 30 amp electric, no dockside showers). The docks are very rough and badly in need of maintenance; make sure your fenders are adequate. One boat did join us before we left on Wednesday. All of the restaurants we visited were good: smacnally’s at the Anchorage Marina, Jolly Roger, Back Porch (try their Vietnamese style Bluefish dish). We usually try to go to Howard’s but have heard relatively bad things about them in terms of service and food quality recently. Ashore this time of year is the usual mix of tourists from the upper banks and the ferries down for a day trip (very crowded in town, not so much at the docks or the beach). There is still a shoal building out from red 10B and from auxiliary uncharted green can 9C. You should give them both a wide berth when exiting or leaving from Big Foot Slough Channel .
      Chuck Tontsch

      Stay at Park Service Dock or anchor out. The only other marina has gone to $2.50 per foot, plus $10 for a 50 amp service. Ocracoke is a great place to go. As you come in the channel, stay in it until you see a green and red marker near marker #4 on the Silver Lake entrance channel. Leave the green and red to starboard as you turn into Silver Lake ( I watched the ferries do this), then follow the markers as usual. Do not cut across into the Silver Lake channel until the green and red. Otherwise, the channel from Pamlico Sound is very well marked.
      Norman Mason
      Peggy Sue, Monk 36

      I’m a big fan of the Caribe so have been trying to find the Abacos or Barbados on the ICW – pretty much unrealistic. But Okracoke has the flavour of the Caribe about – much more so than Cape Lookout further south. Some good bars and joints there – not too expensive. Easy to moor and dinghy in. But no Reggae, Limbo or De Rum and Coca Cola……
      Best wishes
      Arnold Parkinson
      The British Club Worldwide
      www.britishclubworldwide.com

      Ocracoke is always fun. We have been several times including last fall. We love the Ocrafolk Opry – there are the locals who sand and played in the movie, Nights in Rodanthe. Several of them are teachers at the local school. We anchor but the dock is park operated so your park pass gets you a discount. Local art shops are numerous. Good restaurants and bakery and ice cream shop
      Wright and Gladys Anderson
      First & Ten

      We anchored in Silver Lake this trip in June. Was the first time anchoring out there among several trips there by water. Was excellent and would do again. State docks are excellent if you can get a spot with full power, water and very reasonable most especially if you purchase for $10 the Passport for State Parks
      and a Sr. Citizen – cuts dock price to under $1.00 / ft. We love Jason’s out near
      Howards. Anchorage Marina is definitely a “gotcha” marina – prices are out of reason from dockage to fuel. I had to get fuel, it was $2.00 per gallon more than I paid anywhere from Bath, NC to Norfolk; I also needed to fill up my water tanks – that was $10.00
      Pat Kenefick

      We go to Ocracoke regularly and love it there. The channel in is a bit daunting due to shoaling. Went hard aground there in a power yacht last spring between marker 9 and 9A I believe. The Coast Guard relayed this happens more often than you’d expect. Be sure to stay mid channel or follow the route of the ferries that regularly visit the town. Shopping is fun (lots of jewelry and unusual crafts) and there are many places to eat that are good, our favorites being the Back Porch and Flying Melon. We usually stay at the private marina but have friends who anchor out. Silver Lake is truly a beautiful spot.
      Pat Cummins, s/v Kentris

      The Admiral and I spent the 2nd week of July docked at Anchorage Marina in Silver Lake, Ocracoke. We found the staff most helpful, very friendly, and welcoming overall. The cost of dockage was a bit higher than we experienced in other locations. Additionally, pump outs are on the expensive side, 30.00 per 30 gallons. Also, the lack of laundry can be a pain. However, we are talking about Ocracoke and the marina staff worked very hard to make up for these few negatives. Due to wind, we constantly heard the slap of water on the swim platform each night.
      There were a number of boats anchored in the lake proper, including two good sized Marine Trader trawlers.
      The island recently passed liquor by the drink so a few of the restuarants now offer cocktails. Unfortunately for those who drink hard liquor, the current law doesn’t allow outdoor venues to offer this choice. Apparently the law specifies a venue must provide indoor seating for greater than 32 to apply for a liquor license.
      My wife and I enjoyed a number of lunches at Dajio which is a very short walk from the marina. Our favorite entree being the “ciabattia chicken sandwich.”
      Additionally, the Creekside Cafe served a good sampling of bar/grill food and a decent sampling of seafood. They also serve cocktails for those interested.
      Of course we had to sample Howards. The Admiral had a rueben which, according to her (native of NY), wasn’t quite up to par.
      Perry & Kathy Sellars
      M/V Marsh Mellow

      We have been anchored out in Silver Lake the last three nights; it has been windy, in the 20 knot range from the south and southwest, very choppy on the sound. We rented bikes today at the Surf Shed, which has the best prices (not to be confused with the Surf Shop across the street). It is about a 20 minute leisurely bike ride to the excellent Park Service beach. I walked by the Anchorage Marina and noted that diesel was going for $2.69, so am not sure about the comment above about fuel prices. Ocracoke is a true island, only accessible by boat or ferry, so it doesn’t surprise me that things like fuel, water and pump outs are expensive, as they often are in the Bahamas, for instance. Anyway, it is a fun stop, reminiscent of a cross between Cuttyhunk, Memensha, and Vineyard Haven up north.
      George Hechtman
      Incentive, Hatteras 56MY

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For The Ocracoke National Park Service Docks

      Click Here For The Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Anchorage Marina

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Norman Mason -  July 24, 2009 - 5:51 pm

        Stay at Park Service Dock or anchor out. The only other marina has gone to $2.50 per foot, plus $10 for a 50 amp service. Ocracoke is a great place to go. As you come in the channel, stay in it until you see a green and red marker near marker #4 on the Silver Lake entrance channel. Leave the green and red to starboard as you turn into Silver Lake ( I watched the ferries do this), then follow the markers as usual. Do not cut across into the Silver Lake channel until the green and red. Otherwise, the channel from Pamlico Sound is very well marked.
        Norman Mason
        Peggy Sue, Monk 36

        Reply to Norman
    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Belhaven Marinas (Statute Mile 135.5)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      25. The delightful community of Belhaven will be spotted to the northwest of the Waterway, hard by marker #10 (near Statute Mile 135.5). Here you will find two marinas, River Forest Manor, and Belhaven Waterway Marina (a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR). Can anyone describe a recent experience when staying at River Forest? Those who have coiled their lines at Belhaven Waterway Marina have had, I’ll bet, a great experience. Those who have stayed here with Brenda and Les recently, please tell us about your stay!

      Responses follow:

      We stayed at River Forest Manor. The staff were friendly and helpful. The marina is in serious need of a facelift. The shower facilities were relatively clean. On a scale from 1-10 with 10 being able to eat off the floor I would give it a 6.5 or 7.
      It needs updating.
      The laundry room was more like a 3 but while the machines that worked were old, they are the big commercial type and I was able to throw all of my cockpit pillows/cushions in them………huge capacity.
      The restaurant was pretty good. The pool is small but clean. The marina is dog friendly. Pumpout was broken.
      We will probably stay at Dowry Creek on the way back.

      Belhaven [Waterway] Marina is a great spot and a MUCH better place to stay the night than River Forest. As charming as the `big house’ and restaurant appear to be at River Forest, the docks are old and in need of repair, the fuel is questionable coming from old and rusting above ground tanks, the head facilities are not the greatest and the food at the `inn’ is sub-par to say the least. Stay at Belhaven Marina ‘“ easy docking, good folks, nice facilities, great little Tiki bar and you can walk into town or ride a bike and enjoy a nice dinner there.
      Pete

      [Belhaven Waterway Marina is] One of our favorite stops – spring and fall. Les & Brenda will help with whatever the problem is. Les is a very good mechanic, and they have a railway in the yard to handle larger boats for repairs/maintenance.
      We do enjoy Belhaven and have to have a Farm Boy sandwich! Don’t miss the museum – you won’t find another like it.
      Hardware store is well-stocked and has a good gift area too.
      Linda & Ed Thorn

      Click Here For More Information About River Forest Manor Marina

      Click Here For More Information About Belhaven Waterway Marina

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      Beaufort Town Docks (Statute Mile 201)

      On 7/24/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      39. Whether you approach Beaufort by way of the Russell Slue ‘“ Gallant Channel, or the charted channel coming in from Beaufort Inlet, this is one of the most popular ports of call in North Carolina, or anywhere else on the Waterway for that matter. Again, I know MANY of you visit Beaufort time and time again. Please share your recommendations and observations concerning this historic, exciting community with your fellow cruisers.

      Responses follow:

      June 28-29, 2009. I spent a delightful time at the Beaufort Town Docks. The dockmaster was friendly and helpful. The Boardwalk Cafe has a great breakfast buffet. I enjoyed the pancakes. While some people want to sit outside I found it nicer in the air conditioned inside at a high table where I could look out along the boats in the harbor and I did not need to wait for a table.The Maritime Museum is excellent. I spent a happy few hours there. One warning. If you go in their excellent library and sit in a soft chair to read their current sailing magazines you will probably fall aslelep.
      Keep up the good work.
      David Hughes
      Expedition
      Out of Blackbeard Sailing Club

      We are currently in Beaufort and are doing the tourist things. We are happily anchored across from the US Post office, in about 12 feet of water, well `INTO’ the channel. I was at the museum when it opened this morning and stsyed for four hours. It is a fun spot to be.
      Tommy

      We love Beaufort. Cute shops and great restaurants. We suggest you try The Grocery for lunch or dinner. Courtesy cars available and wooden nickels for free beer at the marina restaurant. Hard to beat.
      Dave
      on GB 46 At Last

      Click Here For More Information On the Beaufort Town Docks

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Tommy -  July 25, 2009 - 2:43 pm

        We are currently in Beaufort and are doing the tourist things. We are happily anchored across from the US Post office, in about 12 feet of water, well “INTO” the channel. I was at the museum when it opened this morning and stsyed for four hours. It is a fun spot to be.
        Tommy

        Reply to Tommy
    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Swansboro (Statute Mile 229)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      45. The delightful village of Swansboro will be spotted northwest of marker 46. There are two transient friendly marinas to choose from, or you could brave the swift currents and anchor on the westerly reaches of White Oak River, and dinghy ashore to the small town pier. Who has visited Swansboro? Where did you dock, or did you anchor? Please give us some shoreside dining and docking recommendations.

      Responses follow:

      We anchored just downstream of the bridge in July 2008. Good holding. A fair weather anchorage with currents no more or less strong than those all along the coast from Beaufort, NC to Fernandina Bch, FL
      Rick

      We docked a Casper’s Marina overnight, the staff is very friendly and accommodating, although the one unisex non-climate controlled shower and restrooms are just adequate. The face dock can be very rough from wakes on the White River and Intracoastal and is wide open from the southwest, but with good fenders it is okay. The water normally quiets down in the evening, but the band plays on until late from a shrimper’s bar near the southeast side of the bridge. The music was good, though
      Chuck Tontsch

      We anchored out in Swansboro near the bridge. We got there fairly late and had to jostle for a while to get right. Actually we moved 4 times before we felt right. We did not get to go ashore but it looked cute and we will try to do so on our way south and look forward to reading about it more. Our recomendations would be to get there early for a good spot. It gets a bit close there with the bridge, docks and big fishing vessels forming a three sided anchorage. A bit daunting in windy conditions if its crowded, which it was.

      We stayed at Caspers Marina there in June 2008. Good experience. We ate dinner at Icehouse Restaurant and were very pleased with the food and service. Nice waterfront location. For breakfast I highly recommend Yana’s. Wonderful food and friendly service. Swansboro is a fun place to visit and has some interesting shops.
      Pat Cummins, s/v Kentris

      I think Swansboro is one of the most overlooked little towns along the ICW. They have a number of small and simple restaurants with great food, some cute little shops and very friendly people. If you stay at Casper’s Marina, it is an easy walk into town. Speaking of Casper’s, this marina is exposed to the ICW right at the place where the channel speed drops from 25 to No Wake. Needless to say, there are plenty of recreational day boaters who don’t respect that go zooming by (or very close) to the marina. If you stay there, insist that you stay on the inside of the fuel dock which acts as a breakwater. I spent a very uncomfortable night on the outside and was `banged’ pretty good. In all fairness, I stayed there on a Saturday so the number of fast boats and jet skis was disproportional. They do have fuel, nice shower and heads and a small but ample provision store all on site.
      Peter

      Click Here For More Information on Caspers Marina

      Click Here For More Information on the Swansboro Anchorage

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Pungo Creek Anchorage (Statute Mile 136)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List,” I posed the following question:

      26. Just south of Belhaven and Pantego Creek, Pungo Creek offers superb anchorage. Anyone dropped the hook here recently?

      Responses follow:

      Excellent anchorage, even when wind is from the east. You can find a place to snuggle up to the windward shoreline for protection from any direction.
      Rick


      Click Here For More Information on the Pungo Creek Anchorage

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    • Jul 24, 2009by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Dowry Creek Marina (Pungo River, Statute Mile 131.5)

      On 7/23/09, as part of a “North Carolina Wish List, I posed the following question:

      24. Dowry Creek Marina guards the northern shores of the AICW/Pungo River hard by marker #15. This facility has an unfailing reputation for friendliness. If you have stopped here within the last year, please describe your experience.

      Responses follow:

      We were at this marina in 2008. Very nice people. Loaner car available. Great, great, great boaters lounge and pool. The photos they have in the lounge of the hurricane that hit NC a few years back really ripped up their docks, so the message was clear……..don’t get caught there in strong SE winds. We planned to stay one night and ended up enjoying the place so much we stayed for 3 nights just because it was so relaxing.
      Rick

      I stopped at Dowry Creek Marina once on the way south last November and again on the way north in late April and early May. I stayed two days in November and a week on the way back in April and May. This is a truly great marina and a great place to relax for a couple of days. Mary, the owner, will let you use the marina’s SUV to go to town and stock up on supplies and visit the local restaurants. All she asks in exchange is that you put gas in the vehicle. Dowry Creek Marina has wonderful bathrooms. Each bathroom is complete with its own commode, sink and shower. No gang showers and slippery floors. They are also kept spotlessly clean. Friday night the marina hosts a get together with light snacks and drinks.
      The marina is extremely well protected. The approach to the marina is clearly marked and had 8′ at MLW plus the marina has around 8′ at MLW. I’m 47′ LOA with a 6′ DRAFT and the marina is very easy to get in to, out of and visit the fuel dock. Dowry Creek has diesel, gasoline and a pump-out station at their fuel dock. They do enough volume to maintain fresh fuel. There are plenty of liveaboards, seasonal renters and dockhands to help you get into your slip anytime of the day or night. Due to severe head winds and thunderstorms I was late getting to Dowry Creek in April. I called the marina and told them that I could not make it there by 6:00pm and it would be closer to 7:30pm. They told me that would be fine and had four people at the slip when I got there around 8:00pm in the dark. They helped handle my lines in a 20 knot crosswind. That was much appreciated. The marina is also very pet friendly.
      As a bonus I caught the largest Speckled Trout of my life fishing from the bow of my boat while in the slip.
      I recommend this marina without hesitation.
      Regards,
      Ric Seymour

      We’d heard so many positive things about Dowry Creek Marina that we stopped there mid-July 2009 for 1 night. Mary has fresh veggies in a basket on the porch ‘“ours for the taking. We enjoyed the use of the pool, lounge, laundry facility, and courtesy car. It’s a long trip into Belhaven for groceries but a nice, restful stop.
      Bill and Laura Bender

      Stopped there three times. Last Fall stayed for two days due to weather. A wonderful place to be, so kind and caring. I shared a minute at the site she has for her [late] husband, a Vietnam Vet, and a Marine> I share this moment to reflect, alone with him, and what we shared. He will always be a `Brother In Arms’. May God Bless You Always. You will always be remembered. That is one reason why I return each year.
      See you soon’”’”’”’”-
      Greg Timko

      Click Here For More Information on Dowry Creek Marina

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