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    • May 4, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Uninvited Passenger

      Here’s a little story from Ted Jones, former editor and co-owner of the late, great and much lamented “Coastal Cruising” magazine. This tale signifies to me why we all cruise. Who else could have such an experience but cruisers, and Ted has written it so very well!

      As dusk settled over the ocean on April 29th a land bird suddenly flew into the companionway and landed on Malla’s head as she was working in the galley. Reflexively, she brushed it away, and it flew out over the ocean again only to return, determined to find a suitable perch before nightfall. Malla identified it as a swallow. It had most likely been blown out to sea by the strong westerly winds of the previous several days. Swallows, she said require a perch before dark where they can safely spend the night. Ted was not surprised, having been visited by land birds on several occasions. They rarely survive the experience, and there seems to be no way one can help. We have tried, but the end always seems to be the same despite good intentions. Our little swallow eventually found a roosting place on the extension cord used to connect Ted’s computer equipment when we are dockside.
      Both of us were mindful of our passenger throughout the tumultuous events of the wee hours of Friday morning and were concerned for its safety. Amazingly, it put up with the contents of the ice box counter crashing to the cabin sole at one point and the noise and vibrations of the engine sometime later. It clung to it’s tenuous perch despite the constant motion.
      An hour or so after sunrise, with a `thank you’ chirp, our little bird suddenly took flight, out of the companionway, and with a quick orientation circle disappeared toward land, several miles away. We hope it made it to shore. We will never know, although we told it to say hello to Dorcas when it gets to Vermont.
      Cheers,
      Ted

      Ted’s story about the bird that took refuge reminded me of a similar incident around 1982. While wrapping up a dive trip on the wreck of the City of Richmond some 30 miles or so off the Georgetown entrance a sandpiper landed on the instrument panel’¦and refused to budge. We knew right away the poor critter must have lost it’s bearings and flew out to sea. About the time we approached the Pee Dee entrance it got reoriented and flew away to the beach. Sigh.
      Bill Norris
      (Nobody You Know) Hatteras 40DCMY

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    • May 3, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Alligator River Marina (Statute Mile 84)

      Alligator River Marina lies on the western shore of the Alligator River/AICW, just north of the swing bridge and southwest of flashing daybeacon #12. A good layover spot when high winds keep the swing bridge closed.

      Alligator River Marina was only $1 a foot! We were able to knock out the whole Alligator River by planning to go there, and we were ready to jump on the Albermarle Sound in the morning when the forecast changed to lower winds. It was a very nice stop. Good anchorage in the Chesapeake was at Chisman Creek off the Poquosan River just before the York River.We also anchored off the Patuxent River, by Solomons island in Mill Creek.
      MTOA Captains Good-Mikki and Joe Heinrich, aboard Asian Lady.

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

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    • May 3, 2010by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      New Facility – Pungo Creek Marina (North Carolina AICW/Pungo River, Statute Mile 136)

      In 2009, our “mad Englishman on the Waterways,” Captain Arnold reporter that a small facility on Pungo Creek (immediately south of Belhaven and Pantego Creek) had closed. Now, below we hear from Captain Don stark of the Belhaven Yacht Club, that this facility has been reborn as Pungo Creek Marina. We’ll be getting in touch with the new owner, Captain Randy O’Neal shortly and adding his facility ot the North Carolina Marina directory. Many thanks to Captain Stark for bringing Pungo Creek Marina to our attention!

      Bayside Marina is now a new and much better facility but is operating under new management and name.
      The marina is now called Pungo Creek Marina. They have improved the launch ramps and docks. There are currently 48 slips. There are showers and bathrooms with laundry facilities. They will have Wi-Fi at the new Ship’s Store and soon it will be extended to the docks. Each slip has water and power, half of them have 50 Amps.
      Current rate for dockage is $1 per foot with a 30 foot minimum plus a separate charge for electric and use of the shower and laundry. The rates are certainly reasonable.They are reworking the old bar area to make it more of a club house setting. They will have a wide screen TV, tables, chairs sound system etc. They have begun installation of tanks and will be selling gas and diesel! That is good news for all local boaters.
      For more information contact the new owner / manager Randy ONeal (randy@pungocreekmarina.com) The website for the marina is http://www.PungoCreekMarina.com. You will find Randy to be most enthusiastic and helpful. He is making some major investments here and plans to make this a success. He has made a lot of changes in a short period of time.
      You can see photos of the construction and on the Belhaven Yacht Club website for the May BYC News. The Belhaven Yacht Club site is at http://www.BelhavenYachtClub.org
      Don Stark
      BYC Fleet Captain

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Rany O'Neal -  July 11, 2010 - 8:17 pm

        Pungo Creek Marina @ Hubs Rec near Belhaven NC, formerly Baysicde Marine is under new ownership and has undergone significant upgrades. We now have gas and fuel dock, day dock, ugraded boat ramp, wine and beer pub, ships store, meals to order from Blackbeard’s in Bath and bath and laundry facilities. Please check out our website.
        Randy O’Neal

        Reply to Rany
    • Apr 28, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Tuckahoe Point Anchorage (Statute Mile 104)

      Located just north of the entrance to the Alligator River – Pungo River Canal, this small anchorage offers a picturesque, away-from-civilization setting among the cypress trees. However, you might be treated to low flying jets from nearby Cherry Point Marine Base, as we were during a lunch stop not long ago. It seemed the pilots used our boat as a pivot point during their day’s training – quite an airshow!

      Anchored out just past Tuckahoe Point at around MM105. Headed South and wanted to make the canal run early the next day. Tuckahoe Point is buggy (mosquitoes)! However the mosquitoes seem to fade after you cut lights for a while. 6-7 foot depths, great wind protection.
      Captain Ben

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Tuckahoe Point Anchorage

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    • Apr 28, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Taylor Creek/Beaufort Waterfront Anchorage (Statute Mile 201)

      Evidently, private moorings which reduce swing room are an ongoing problem in Taylor Creek. In case you missed Claiborne’s comments of last October, please read on:
      The installation of private moorings on Taylor Creek has been going on for some years now. The town has chosen not to regulate this practice, at least not yet. I’m very sorry to hear the reduced swing room is one of the results of this activity. So many of us in the cruising community like to anchor on Taylor Creek and experience the delights of the Beaufort Historical District. Of course, you can always pick up a slip at the Beaufort Town Docks. Everything except a supermarket is within easy walking distance. If you do anchor on Taylor Creek, there are free dinghy docks at both the eastern and western ends of the principal waterfront. The westerly pier is particularly convenient to the downtown shopping district.

      Kinda tight anchorage, but good location.
      Capt. Sterling

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Taylor Creek/Beaufort Waterfront Anchorage

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    • Apr 28, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Accolades For River Dunes Marina (off the AICW/Neuse River on Broad Creek, near St. M. 173.5)

      As you will quickly discern, the message below was copied off the AGLCA mail list. Wherever it came from, Captains Ed and and Linda have discovered just what a wonderful facility River Dunes is for all cruisers. And I am not saying that just because these good folks are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR! Give this facility a try! You won’t be sorry!

      For all you Loopers heading north after the Rendezvous there is a good stop about 8 miles beyond Oriental at a new marina, River Dunes, on Broad Creek. At $1.00/ft. & elec. it’s a great stop. New floating docks, pool, exercise room, $1.00 washer/dryer, courtesy car to go to Oriental – very nice. Very protected harbor.
      Best to look them up on the Internet and call to get directions, http://www.riverdunes.com
      Ed & Linda Brennan
      Shore Thing

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

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    • Apr 28, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Joyner Marina (Statute Mile 295)

      At the mouth of the channel into Carolina Beach and on the ocean side of the AICW, Joyner Marina is immediately east of the AICW’s turn into the eastern mouth of Snows Cut.

      To get a change of scenery from our home marina, we have just spent the last month (April 2010) at Joyner Marina. This place has been nothing short of fantastic! Tim and his staff has made us feel very welcome (to the point of seriously considering moving there full-time). Wi_Fi signal is strong, floating docks are new and nice, and bathroom facilities are very good. The fuel docks are easy to get to, but the entrance to the marina is a bit tricky in high winds and swift current. It would be nice if they had a courtesy car available as the marina is in a residential part of Carolina Beach and shopping and eating (other than one place) are several miles away.
      Being right on the ICW, there is a little rolling from passing boat traffic, but the breakwater does a really good job and the marina is well protected. The great view more than makes up for that, and if you like to watch boats go by’¦ this is the place for you.
      One of the best things about Joyner is its proximity to beautiful Carolina Beach. It’s just a five minute walk to a huge sandy beach that allows camping and driving on the beach. A long walk on the beach is a `must do’ while you are there.
      The new management and staff there are doing an amazing job. They are really trying to engage the boaters with day trips and cook-outs. You can tell they want your business. Joyner Marina has been a great experience for us. We will stop there from now on when passing by Carolina Beach and may decide to make it a permanent home in the future.
      Captain Tom Beaty

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

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    • Apr 28, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Coinjock Marina (Statute Mile 50 – NC-Virginia Cut Route)

      Coinjock Marina, your #1 stop for good fuel prices and great dining on the AICW/North Carolina - Virginia CutSouth of the Great Bridge Lock, Coinjock Marina has long been a favorite stopping and fueling point for AICW cruisers before entering Albemarle Sound.

      Friendly, laid back, and helpful. Came through on April 2010. Diesel $2.79. Free showers! Very pleasant place.
      Captain Matthews

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

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    • Apr 22, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Dowry Creek Marina (Statute Mile 132)

      Dowry Creek Marina, just north of Belhaven, is an owner-operated marina where you get member-of-the-family treatment.

      04-17-2010
      We stopped off at Dowry Creek Marina 3 years ago and had a great time. We are returning to Virginia and decided to stop off at Dowry Creek again. We are the only transients here tonight. We took part in the nightly cocktail hour at the boaters lounge and we had a wonderful time. I do hope many more boaters will decide to stop off. We need to keep Marinas like this in business for future generations of boaters. If you want to have a memorable evening on your way up or down the ICW stop off at Dowry Creek Marina. You won’t regret it.
      Claudia Young

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Dowry Creek Marina

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    • Apr 22, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Carolina Beach Anchorage (Statute Mile 295)

      Carolina Beach no longer has any transient dockage for transient visitors south of Snows Cut, though you can anchor, as described below, or pick up a slip at Joyner Marina, just east of Snows Cut’s easterly mouth..

      One of our regular anchorages. Anchored here 4-20-10 in 9 ft MLW. There is now a very unattractive bait barge (selling bait I guess) anchored in the middle of the cove. Doesn’t interfere with anchoring though.
      Jean Thomason

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Carolina Beach Anchorage

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

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    • Apr 21, 2010by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Elizabeth City Info (St. Mile 50.5)

      Elizabeth City is the Dismal Swamp Canal Route’s only real port of call. This community is well known for its hospitality, as Capt. David relates below, and they are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!.

      Claiborne
      Perhaps northbound cruisers could use some very recent Elizabeth City information to supplement your excellent comments in your Guide. Betty and I drove (sorry about that) to Elizabeth City on April 19 and we stayed at the Elizabeth City B&B (252 338 2177) a 5 minute walk from the docks. It is a late 19th century house. Ray and Maureen were excellent hosts-wine in the courtyard and a fantastic breakfast. We had a good lunch at the Cyprus Creek Cafe just across the street from the docks and great fish dinners at Logan Raye’s Key West Grill on Colonial Avenue. The latter has a local atmosphere. The Visitors’ Center has a good walking map with descriptions of the local buildings. The new Museum of the Albemarle that can be seen to the left of the docks is a must visit. It just opened and has excellent exhibits of the history of the area and the Outer Banks. This could easily take half of a day.
      Lamb’s Marine is well maintained. Larry sends his regards.
      David Hughes
      Expedition

      Ditto. Stayed at Pelican Marina last Thursday and Friday nights. Marina just fair but priced right. The town is to be experienced. Very cruiser friendly locals, walkable town with a good variety of dining.
      BTW, got thumped 8 times in the ditch.
      Best marina so far in the AICW is Port Royal Landing Marina. Port Royal, SC
      M/V Into The Mystic, currently lying St. Michaels, MD

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Lamb’s Marine

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

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    • Apr 19, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Wilmington Marine Center (Cape Fear River, near downtown Wilmington, NC)

      You must leave the AICW’s run down the Cape Fear River at Snows Cut, and track your way upstream to Wilmington Marine Center. This facility is located in the heart of the industrial area south (downstream) of the Wilmington historic/business district. There are no restaurants or other amenities with walking distance, but you could always take a cab into town.

      Wilmington Marine Center, about 1/2 way to downtown up the Cape Fear is extremely safe both weatherwise and security, good prices, and it is a very good boat yard if you need any repairs/maintenance.
      Just Relax

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Wilmington Marine Center

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    • Apr 12, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      “Letter to the Editor” Concerning “Toll Bridge” in New Bern, NC

      Captain Ehlen has been kind enough to share a “Letter to the Editor” that he recently dispatched to the New Bern newspaper. As you will see, the subject is a proposal to charge tolls to all boats that pass through the new Trent River bridge. This is a really BAD idea, and, as Captain Ehlen notes, very probably a violation of Federal law!

      To the Editor:
      Let’s see now. Motorists have two means of crossing the Trent River to/from New Bern. Boaters have only one means of moving between the Trent and Neuse Rivers. I’m a boat owner and the following has a direct impact on me and most other boaters in the area, not to mention the marinas and boat yards on the Trent River, the New Bern Yacht Club and the East Carolina YC.
      A few years ago, articles in the Sun Journal reported that the old Cunningham Bridge was deemed in dire need of repair. In fact, I think it was in 2002, one of your headlines stated that the bridge was “The least safe bridge in North Carolina.” Lead paint and other issues over the years led to the decision by the state to remove the bridge.
      North Carolina, according to your articles, at first said the bridge wouldn’t be replaced as there was already a new high bridge over the Trent River.
      New Bern’s government and downtown merchants, I read, wanted a new high bridge or draw bridge or tunnel to replace the old Cunningham Bridge because they felt that the bridge brought them customers/visitors/money from the James City area.
      The compromise reached was that the state would build the new bridge and turn it over to the city.
      Now that the new bridge is completed and open, the city wants to back out of its commitment and let the state pay for its upkeep.
      Then, your editorial of April 11 suggests that maybe BOATERS should pay a toll ($2/ft.?) to have the bridge opened. Are you nuts? Boaters don’t need the bridge; it’s a convenience for the city, merchants and motorists.
      I’m sure federal laws prohibit blocking navigable waterways, hence draw bridges have to open for boats.
      On the other hand, maybe the editorial was just a late April Fool’s joke.
      Wade Ehlen

      Wow! If $2/ft is even being CONSIDERED, I’ll be parking at the town docks or the Galley Store from now on. In fact, it may end up with us moving our boat from the New Bern area all together. Downtown merchants need boaters to visit. We spend a fair amount in downtown on a regular basis. How will they handle the idea that the town’s two largest marinas will basically be locked behind this toll bridge?
      If I had to guess, it was only a proposal or idea just thrown out there as a possibility. I seriously doubt it would make it much further than that.
      Tom Beaty

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    • Apr 11, 2010by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      New Marina in New Bern, NC (Neuse River)

      Many thanks to Captain Dayo for his brief report below on this new Neuse River facility near New Bern, NC. Can someone else please provide some additional details about this new marina, and particularly a telephone number. If so, PLEASE click the “Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below, and share your information. Many thanks in advance!

      Subject: new marina in Bridgeton, NC
      Cruising News: There is a new marina in Bridgeton, NC, on the Neuse River. It is a short distance up river from New Bern on the Bridgeton side of the River. It is the Bridgeton Harbor. It is located immediately down river from the railroad crossing.
      Ed Deyo

      My Google Map does not have the name of the river that is to the east of New Bern, NC, but if you look it up, you will find rt. 17 bridge that crosses this river to the right. If you look left on the approaching shore you will see sailboat mast up a-ways. This is Bridgeton Harbor Marina, 252-349-1194, http://www.brigetonharbor.com, dockmaster@bridgetonharbor.com., and his name is Tom. This is apparently a 5 Star marina that was built before the condos were and they aren’t getting done until the economy improves so there it sits. It has, floating docks, marina, car available, 5 washer/dryers, 5 seat type shower that never run out of hot water and it was $300 a month dockage last summer for a 50′ boat. Plus the man who told me about this Ted, who is now in Core Creek like we are, said there was a great breeze all the time at this place that stuck out in the water. So, put that in your places to check out book.
      This is from my sister Sarah and is second hand from me. But, she consorts with a salty crew, so there probably is some truth to her advice.
      Clint and Lori Wadsworth

      Ask and you will receive ‘¦’¦ something
      I had just sent this information to my brother Clint Wadsworth heading south on ESCORT, yesterday. We are on ACADIA and soon to head south, but are hauled out in Beaufort, NC.
      Two days ago I heard from a fellow `yard-bird’, who had been at this marina for the summer and couldn’t say enough nice things about it. He said it was a beautiful 5 Star type marina and that he had been there for the summer. His monthly was very reasonable, the floating docks jutted out far enough in the river to catch a breeze, no bugs and the tie ups were accessible and large. There is a huge shop building, I am not sure who runs that. There are 5 gorgeously tiled showers with benches in them, lots of hot water plus 5 washer/dryers and a car to borrow. The dockmaster’s name is Tom 252-49-1194, http://www.brigetonmarina.com , dockmaster@bridgetonharbor.com
      Sarah Schroeder

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. Captain Colin Day. M/V LILY MARIA -  February 5, 2011 - 1:58 pm

        Bridgeton Harbor Marina. Dock master: Thomas Wynn. Phone 252 349 1194 or 252 514 6728. Location. 35:07:555N by 77:01:747W. On Neuse River, south and east of rail road bridge at Bridgeton.
        Off the north / south migration route but an ideal, safe location to rest awhile or to leave your vessel while attending to shore side commitments. New Bern Airport is convenient to the marina.
        Wide, stable floating docks. each with electricity, water and TV hook ups. Shore side facilities include a clubhouse, which incorporates lounge with wide screen TV, large tiled bathrooms and cooking facilities also a computer for use of guests. Special feature are the free washer/ dryers.
        Outside is an extensive deck fully equipped with comfortable chairs, tables and LPG grills and smoker for dockside cook outs. There is also a large workshop area which can be used with the Dock Masters approval.
        A courtesy car is freely available. Family type restaurant with in walking distance, a pizza store that will delver and a fully stocked Food Lion and pharmacy within 5 minutes drive.
        The Dock Master Tom Wynn is an experienced boat owner who understands and is able to meet the needs of his customers. Tom recently retired as a boat builder and can, when asked, offer solution for most shipboard problems.
        We came for a month , stayed for two and are totally satisfied and will break ourfuture migrations here again.

        Reply to Captain
    • Apr 8, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Sea Gate Marina (AICW – Core Creek Canal, near St. M. 194)

      Sea Gate Marina guards the Waterway’s western banks, just north of the Core Creek bridge. This facility has a well sheltered harbor, but we’ve noted some thin depths here in the past.

      We have been shopping marinas. We like Seagate because of it’s price and closeness to the beach. We looked over Seagate in March 2010. They have remodeled the inside of their marina lounge, and seem to be improving the facility. My wife and I were surprised to find they remodeled the old plastic-walled dingy bathrooms with hard tile. Great job!
      For some pretty cheap money, they should add some coverage trees (Leyland Cypress grow fast!) and some shrubs to eliminate that barren look they have. They still have a `last outpost’ feel about the place. Nice marina, but still feels a bit sparse on atmosphere. Improving though, keep it up!
      Ben

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Sea Gate Marina

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    • Apr 8, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbor (Neuse River – at Oriental, and near St. M. 181)

      The only real problem we have ever had while berthing at Whittaker Creek, is that downtown Oriental, with all its wonderful dining attractions (including, Tucans and Village Food Emporium, both SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS) is a bit far for walking.

      Shopping marinas to put our boat. We like Whittaker Creek, for a good neighborly feel, but here’s what we saw in March 2010. Piers in rougher shape than average. Some disaster happened to the clubhouse/pool, can’t figure what. Also, Whittaker seems to be specializing in selling really badly-treated boats. There are many of them about.
      Knute (bright spot) is very friendly, but the poorly treated boats that sprinkle the marina are a bad omen. Seems like a marina in decline. I’d repair some boards in the piers and segregate the bone-yard boats away from the general population. Not sure when the clubhouse gets wiped clean or rebuilt. Very friendly place, friendly boaters there though. We thought they were priced higher than the market for long term slips and their general condition.
      Ben

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbor

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    • Apr 8, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Matthews Point Marina

      Matthews Point Marina is one of our favorite facilities on the North Carolina coastline. If you are looking for a shoreside restaurant, go elsewhere. Otherwise, you could not possibly do better than make the acquaintance of Jet Matthews and his fine staff at this beautiful facility!!!

      We love this place. We shopped about 4-5 marinas in March 2010 to put our for-us-new boat and Matthews Point is well-maintained, friendly, casual, beautiful, and well-loved. They take care of the facility like I take care of my home. Dockmaster Paul is helpful and friendly. Making it there our boat-home.
      Ben

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Matthews Point Marina

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    • Apr 8, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      New Bern Grand Marina (Trent River – Neuse River)

      Interesting that dockage rates have dropped at this facility.

      Called there in March 2010 about long term slips. Many amenities (A fitness center, New Bern, hotel, restaurants). Competitive rates for what you get, but was also told they had dropped their rates in the past year because they were losing (long term) boaters due to the economy. Very tempting but too far away from the ocean for us. I love this marina, it’s always in top shape.
      Ben

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s North Carolina Marina Directory Listing For New Bern Grand Marina

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    • Apr 2, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Alternate North Carolina Route, that Avoids the Alligator – Pungo Canal

      The route outlined below by Captains Chris & Alyse Caldwell is certainly do-able, and an interesting alternative to the AICW. The advantages are you can depart from a straight track and visit, Ocracoke, Hatteras village, Engelhard, and, particularly, Manteo, a wonderful port of call on Roanoke Island. The down side is that for much of this cruise you will be traversing wide and relatively shallow Pamlico Sound. When the wind gets its dander up, the sound’s long fetch, coupled with depths of only 8 to 15 feet, can produce a chop that can jar the fillings out of your teeth. Choose times of fair weather and winds under 12 knots when cruising Pamlico Sound!

      The ICW is a wonderful journey, north and south BUT if you’re tired of the slow zones, bridges (Alligator River bridge closure?) and constant overtaking of slower boats consider this shortcut around the entire Alligator – Pungo Canal in NC. This is an open water passage from the Neuse River mouth to Croatan Sound up to Coinjock, NC. You only save 18 miles BUT the time savings is incredible in a 7knot boat. You can run on autopilot in open water instead of traversing narrow cuts and canals. Unfortunately the fixed bridge crossing to Roanoke Island is only 45 feet air draft preventing most sailboats from using this route. Still want to try this in a sailboat? Run east of Roanoke Island in Roanoke Sound Channel where there is a 65 foot bridge. Marshes Light is a new marina that looks interesting. Tell ’em Captain Chris sent you.

      Northbound.
      After departing Adams Creek or Oriental, NC follow the ICW northward in the Neuse River to the opening into the bay. The ICW veers west at marker NR into the Bay River.
      Use these landmarks as references to open water towards Coinjock, NC. These are not guaranteed waypoints for navigation. I used MapTech Chartkit Region 6 Seventh Edition for reference. and created initials NC 1 thru NC 8 to enter in my GPS. North Carolina 1-8. Remember to check my coordinates against the newest charts for accuracy.

      1. Marker, 24 ft, NR (Neuse River), intersection of Neuse River and Bay River (ICW veers west).
      NC1 N35.06.6 W76.28.5

      2. Brant I Shoal, Marker 40 ft. BI
      NC2 N35.07.8 W76.17.4

      3. Bluff Shoal, marker 41 ft. BL Caution, chart shows 10 ft water here.
      NC3 N35.12.9 W76.04.4

      4. Long Shoal, Marker 15 ft. LS2
      NC4 N35.33.8 W75.43.7

      5. Stumpy Point, Marker 35 ft. N
      NC5 N35.42.9 W75.37.7

      6. Roanoke Marshes, Marker 42 ft. RM
      NC6 N35.48.6 W75.42.0

      Go through Croatan Sound and under two fixed bridges. The older bridge is only 45 ft air draft preventing most sailboats from passing underneath. Some older charts (year 2000?) may not show the newer 65 ft bridge so be aware you will see two bridges on the horizon as you near them. Yes, you are in the correct location.

      7. Reeds Point, Marker 42 ft. Red #3
      NC7 N35.56.7 W75.46.6

      Cross Albermarle Sound to entrance of North River at Camden Point. Coinjock is north up the river.

      8. Camden Point, Marker 16 ft. Green #173
      NC8 N36.08.5 W75.53.6

      Depending on your speed, weather and available daylight we have used a few anchorages along this route.
      – Adams Creek at the 90 degree turn just before entering the Neuse River.
      – Oriental, NC. We go under the bridge and anchor to the left. This is a more open area and no sailboats can pass beneath the low fixed bridge.
      – Bay River just after turning west from the Neuse River ICW at marker NR.
      – Anywhere along the lee side of Croatan Sound near either bridge.
      – Just above Camden Point in the lee.

      Great Prime Rib Diner for two at Coinjock Marina. We recommend you stop here and enjoy this huge delicious dinner. Leftovers for days afterward.
      Sincerely,
      Chris & Alyse Caldwell
      Captain Chris Yacht Services

      Just completed that transit today 10/26 in a power boat with 39’³ draft. Passed several sail boats. no problem with depths. Bridge clearance board read 65′
      Dead head at entrance outside the channel southbound. Favor the green
      Roy Adler

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    • Mar 29, 2010by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Wrightsville Beach to New Bern

      Captain Beesley’s note below is GOOD news. Looks like recent dredging at the AICW/New River/New River Inlet and the AICW/Browns Inlet intersections have done the job!

      Subject: New River to Swansboro
      Cruising News: Claiborne,
      Did a delivery yesterday from Wrighstville Beach to New Bern. Glad to report that we never saw less than 12 ft at the New River intersection, favoring the red side, at 1 ft above low tide. In addition, we went straight through Brown’s Inlet and never saw less than 15 ft. All of the temporary navigation aids there have been removed. The above news should be welcome for all the northbound cruisers over the next couple of months.
      Capt. Richard Beesley

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