Cruisers' Net | Cruisers Helping Cruisers

Aug 13, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Praise for Osprey Marina, AICW Statute Mile 373
Osprey Marina lies at the southern foot of AICW section known officially as the Pine Island Cut (a. k. a. “the Rock Pile”), just as the Waterway sweeps south into beautiful Waccamaw River. Osprey Marina is one of the finest marinas you will ever discover, and these good folks are A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
We stayed one night on return from Bald Head to Georgetown and wanted to avoid the carnival of Myrtle Beach. What a great spot! We are a 47′ Beneteau and had no problem getting in and out. The most helpful, curtious staff we have ever encountered. Cleanest baths, laundry and marina building possible. Enjoyed an outstanding Italian dinner with pickup and return service. Couldn’t ask for more, every marina could learn from Osprey. We will be back next time.
Bill Saint
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Osprey Marina
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Jul 28, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Praise for Port Royal Landing Marina, AICW Statute Mile 540
Port Royal Landing Marina guards the western banks of the AICW/Beaufort River, a short hop south of downtown Beaufort, SC. This fine facility is a much valued SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!!!
I always stop at the PRLM on my way down the ICW. This is how all marinas should be run, good old southern hospitality.
Try it.
Ed Hart
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Port Royal Landing Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Port Royal Landing Marina
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Jul 27, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Blackstone’s Cafe (Beaufort, SC) – The BEST Breakfast on the AICW (Statute Mile 536.5)
OK, I’m about to go out on a proverbial limb, and do something seriously DANGEROUS! I propose that the very best breakfast available to cruisers on the entire course of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, from Norfolk, VA to Miami, Florida, is found at Blackstone’s Cafe (205 Scott Street, 843-524-4330), located in historic downtown Beaufort, South Carolina, and within easy walking distance of SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Downtown Marina of Beaufort. Yes, in my humble opinion, a better breakfast than Thomas Cafe in Georgetown, South Carolina, than Cox Family Restaurant in Morehead City, North Carolina and even better than the Variety Store Restaurant at Charleston (South Carolina) City Marina.
OK, I know that’s a tall statement, but really, fellow cruisers, you have to taste the white cheddar and fresh mushroom omelet, not to mention the light as a cloud buttermilk pancakes or the awesome “Cajun Shrimp and Grits, not to mention the unforgettable corn beef hash. My oh my, my cholesterol level jumps 10 points by just thinking about a breakfast at Blackstones.
Then, there is the interior decor at Blackstone’s Cafe which I can only describe as eclectic. There are colorful military unit flags sitting cheek by jowl with posters from movies made in Beaufort, such as “The Big Chill.” There’s even outside dining in an open courtyard, which was my chosen spot during a recent July, 2012 visit. The combination of my omelet and the river breezes, well, words just fail me.
Clearly, Blackstone’s is where the local crowd meets for breakfast, of both the nautical and non-nautical variety. You never know what interesting conversation you might run across. Years ago, it was here that I first heard about a strangely named movie that was going to be shot in Beaufort within a few months. Who had ever heard of a story entitled, “Forest Gump?”
Still not enough for you? Well, consider this. Owner/founder Roger Alley came sailing, that’s right, “sailing” into Beaufort, SC some years ago with the intent of only interrupting his cruise for a night or two to sample the many charms of Beaufort. He was so taken with the community that he founded Blackstones (originally a combination gourmet food store and cafe), and he has made his home here ever since!
I WOULD LIKE TO USE THIS ARTICLE TO BEGIN A LIVELY DISCUSSION ABOUT WHO/WHERE YOU THINK THE BEST BREAKFAST ON THE AICW CAN BE FOUND. PLEASE contribute your favorites, by e-mailing me directly at CruisersNet@triad.twcbc.com, or clicking the “Comment on This Posting/Marina/Anchorage/Bridge” link below. Let’s discover together where the best diet busting breakfast spots are to be found. Both yours truly and your fellow cruisers ARE EAGER TO HEAR FROM YOU. So, PLEASE chime in!

Well, the cruising community has heard my appeal to name/discuss their favorite breakfast spots, and the SSECN has been honored with a TON of welcome input. So much, in fact, that this collection of messages is too lengthy to insert at the bottom of this posting.
Instead, click HERE to check out what and where your fellow cruisers are recommending as the best coastal breakfast spots to be found!
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Downtown Beaufort Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Downtown Beaufort, SC
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Jul 26, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Thoroughfare Creek Anchorage (off AICW/Waccamaw River) – Statute Mile 389 – Captains Mark and Diana Report
Now here’s a really useful article from our strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, founders and owners of On The Water ChartGuides. Sometimes we all, or at least I do, get so wrapped up with memories of an anchorage’s natural beauty, rich history and superb shelter, we forget there may be another side to the story.
And, indeed, that is just the case here. Along a river replete with wonderful spots to drop the hook overnight, Thoroughfare Creek vies with Bull Creek for the best of the best in this region. And yet, as you will see below, there may be certain times of the year when a disadvantage or two may show up in these waters. Read on!
The Waccamaw River in Summer: More PWCs than Mosquitoes
Thoroughfare Creek October 15 Versus June 15
We often revel in the changing seasons. Every transit is different depending on the weather, the seasonal cloud formations, the patterns of bird and mammal migration, and the colors of the wooded shores or saltmarsh expanses.
But here’s a seasonal change we weren’t expecting: the Waccamaw River in summer.
For most experienced ICW cruisers, the Waccamaw River is one of their favorite cruising grounds. Anchorage after peaceful anchorage, typically the only boat tucked into a surreal cypress setting draped with Spanish moss. Birds call from the dark swampy woods and ospreys whistle from their huge stick nests.
But that’s the Waccamaw River of early spring or fall. Come summer, especially on weekends, this waterway that is part of a national wildlife refuge becomes a playground for the jet skis, pontoon boats, and Baja cruisers from nearby overflowing Myrtle Beach.
Don’t believe us? We witnessed quiet Thoroughfare Creek anchorage (STM 388.8) become a speedway for party boats to access the sandy bluffs at charted Belin, known to locals as “Sandy Island.” It looked like Coney Island!
So we gave up on anchoring in Thoroughfare Creek, deciding to press on along the magenta line. We departed the Waccamaw with the company of a noisy jet skier, zig-zagging back and forth right off our stern using our wake to “catch some air.”
Sheesh …
Best and see you On the Water!
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
I live in the area and often anchor in Thoroughfare Creek for the evening. It is a beautiful and very special spot. Fortunately for most cruisers, it is quiet and serene during the normal passage times. Just plan to forget it on the weekends from Memorial Day through Labor day’¦.Before and after that, it’s all yours!
Geoff Groat
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For the Thoroughfare Creek Anchorages
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Thoroughfare Creek Anchorages
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Jul 25, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
High Praise for Barefoot Marina, Myrtle Beach, SC, AICW Statute Mile 353.5

Barefoot Marina
Don’t confuse Barefoot Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, with Barefoot Landing Transient Dock, which is located on the eastern (ocean) side of the AICW in Myrtle Beach, while Barefoot Marina guards the western banks. As Capt. Chace confirms below, the new incarnation is better than ever, and we are very impressed with the marina management. Because of the shoaling at low tide, we have a Navigation Alert posted here.
Barefoot Resort Marina: This was, and will be again, our home marina. We live at Barefoot Resort so this was an obvious choice for us. We have sailed up and down the East coast between here and New England for the last several years. Lately more north than south I’m afraid. We have seen the good, the bad and the UGLY when it comes to east coast marinas. In my opinion you will not find a nicer, cleaner and more upscale facility then Barefoot Resort Marina. Bill Rathburn and George have been friends and honorary crew members aboard Spirit, our C&C 40. They are also very pet friendly with our Labrador Genny. You all know that they are quite competitive regarding dock fees. Spirit has a 7′ draft. (7’3’³ to be exact). She gets in and out at high water. Other times require caution as we have been aground there also. But forewarned is forearmed as I like to say. Just be aware of the height of tide when approaching with over 5′ of draft. It is worth it.
Capt. Bill Chace
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Barefoot Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Barefoot Marina
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Jul 22, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More AICW Shoaling Reported Near Isle of Palms, (Statute Mile 460)
From earlier reports and as Captain Bell confirms, the water gets thin between AICW markers #111 and #119, north of the Waterway’s entrance into Charleston Harbor. While not yet designated an SSECN Problem Stretch, we have established a Navigation Alert for these waters and caution should be exercised through the AICW channel past the Isle of Palms.
Three days ago we had to wait for one hour past low water, which was `0’³ tide, to pass between 117A and 119. Our sailboat has a five foot draft. We made two slow attempts to pass but ran aground mid channel and west or land side of mid channel. NOTE: while we waited for an hour past low tide we made an attempt to bypass the low spot by going around the Atlantic side loop. The chart shows deep water, which there is until you are 100 yards from 119, then there is a shoal that is less than four feet. So back to 117A you go.
David Bell
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW North of Ben Sawyer Bridge to Isle of Palms Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Jul 19, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Good Dining at Battery Creek Anchorage (Statute Mile 542)
Talk about a coincidence. I had the happy occasion to dine at Dockside Restaurant (843-524-7433) the day before Skipper Fowler filed this report. I AGREE, the seafood is awesome, and I also found the service quite good.
The possibility of dining at Dockside Seafood DEFINITELY makes the prospect of anchoring overnight on Battery Creek, a few miles south of Beaufort, SC, an even better bargain!
Hey Claiborne:
We took your advice and anchored on Battery Creek. We are even more glad that you spoke to us about nearby Dockside Restaurant. We blew up our dinghy, and rowed the short distance to this restaurant’s docks which were easy to pick out from the anchorage. Most of the outer dock was taken up by local shrimpers, and those piers were quite high as well. Fortunately, we found some lower, floating docks on the inside, and were able to easily tie up the dink.
We found the restaurant a warm, homy kind of placed, walled and roofed with lots of knotty pine. There was a GREAT view of Battery Creek from the windows.
Even though we visited on a Thursday night, there was a waiting line by 6:30 pm. Fortunately, we were already well into our dinners by then. I got the fried “Captains Platter” which proved to be enough food for the Russian Army. The flounder was some of the best I’ve had anywhere, anytime. Sue got the broiled seafood platter, and she has raved about the scallops and “local” shrimp ever since.
So, it was a good evening all around at Battery Creek, though my waistline is larger for the visit. I would definitely recommend this anchor down spot to fellow cruisers!
Skipper Fowler
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Anchorage Directory Listing For Battery Creek
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Battery Creek Anchorage
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Jul 19, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
News From Downtown Beaufort Marina (Statute Mile 536.5)
We had the happy occasion to visit in person with Captains Mandy and Rick Griffin, proprietors of SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, Downtown Marina of Beaufort, on 7/18/12. We gathered a whole raft of new and updated information.
First of all, Captain Mandy updated us on the often changing opening schedule of the nearby Lady’s Island Bridge. You can check out the updated regulations at /ladyaeâ„¢s-island-bridge.
Next, we discovered that Downtown Beaufort Marina is running a new, 3-month dockage special. Those who commit to a 90-day stay will pay an appealing $13.50 per foot, per month!
Captain Mandy also updated us thoroughly on the downtown Beaufort Restaurant situation. And, we had the happy opportunity ourselves to dine at Plums for lunch, Blackstone’s Cafe for breakfast and Breakwater Restaurant for dinner. No comment on what all this eating did to my waistline, but all three meals were SUPERB. Downtown Beaufort has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to GOOD dining.
You can check out all Captain Mandy’s other restaurant tips by following the link to Downtown Beaufort Marina’s listing in the SSECN South Carolina Marina Directory, below. Just scroll down to the “Restaurant Recommendations” field.
Next, Captain Rick give us the GOOD news that his facility has received a $100,000.00 community assistance grant. This money will be used to upgrade the marina’s dockside power, particularly the 50-amp hookups, and establish a mooring field west of the dockage basin. Due to the permitting process, the power upgrades are probably six months away, and planning studies are just getting underway for the mooring field. Nevertheless, this is great future news for an already first class facility!
We can say without hesitation that this marina, operated by two of the finest folks in the business, is a great place to visit. We would not take anything for our time spent there and miss the whole crowd down there immensely. Everything you need is close by. Stop in and tell them that Dan and Patsy said hello.
Dan and Patsy Traylor
Winston-Salem N.C.
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Downtown Beaufort Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Downtown Beaufort Marina
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Jul 17, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Good News from Leland Oil Co. Marina – McClellanville, SC (St. M. 430) – Captains Mark and Diana Report

Leland Oil Co. Marina
Here’s another excellent report from our strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, owners and originator of On The Water Chart Guides. This article concerns Leland Oil Company Marina, located on the waters of Jeremy Creek at McClellanville, SC. This facility lies about half-way between Winyah Bay and Charleston Harbor.
As has been previously reported here on the Cruisers’ Net, and made clear once again below by Captains Diana and Mark, McClellanville Oil Co. Marina may just be “the” most improved facility in the SC Low Country. Even so, no-one will ever mistake this place for Pier 66, or Morehead City Yacht Basin, BUT with things as they now stand, we can recommend a stop here for those who want to experience a last, little piece of South Carolina Low Country, small town, charm!

T. W. Graham & Co. Seafood Restaurant
Hi Claiborne,
Diana and I were through McClellanville last month and thought you’d like an update on what Dwayne’s up to at Leland Oil.
ICW veterans have long known about the shrimp boat docks at McClellanville, SC (STM 430.0).
In the past, you’d trade beer to raft up for the night In the tiny harbor of Jeremy Creek. But, of course, you’d have to stay up with the shrimpers to drink the beer ‘¦ and then untangle your boat at oh-dark-thirty so they could get off to work and you could catch a few hours of sleep before moving on.
Now there is a more “civilized” alternative. Last year, Dwayne Merritt at Leland Oil put in floating docks to provide a place for recreational boats to tie up for the night, allowing them to keep their beer … and get some sleep.
We recently stayed at Leland Oil and saw first-hand the new floating docks. Very nice! And Dwayne continues to make this facility more welcoming to cruising sail and power boats.
McClellanville is worth a saunter, a quiet village of well-kept houses clustered on a few blocks near the shrimp docks. With its small streets, lack of traffic, and friendly residents, walking the town feels like going back a few decades.
There is one stop in town, the local seafood restaurant, T.W. Graham. In true small-town style, it has abbreviated hours but is worth the wait. FRESH-FRESH seafood!
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Leland Oil Co. Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Leland Oil Co. Marina
www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
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Jul 12, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
Ladys Island Marina – Captains Mark and Diana Report (Statute Mile 536.5)

Recently refinished A, B and C docks
Here’s another excellent report from our strategic partners, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, owners and originator of On The Water Chart Guides. This article concerns Ladys Island Marina, located just across the AICW from downtown Beaufort, SC.
This facility has been undergoing a slow and uncertain transition for the last several years. At one time, the owners could not make up their minds whether to keep this place a marina, or turn it into boat-a-miniums. Looks like, at least for the moment, they have opted for the marina route.
Hi folks,
Just wanted to give a shout-out to Claiborne and the SSECN, re: Lady’s Island Marina.
When you’re travelling through Beaufort, SC, consider stopping at Lady’s Island Marina on Factory Creek (STM 535.9).
And if you’re considering cruising to Panama and the San Blas Islands, it just became a must stop’”or you’re missing a great resource!
What’s the connection?
The dockmaster at Lady’s Island Marina, Ted Alcorn, and his wife Shari, cruised extensively on their boat s/v Mystique, including four years in the San Blas Islands. During their time there, they were intimately connected with the indigenous community and invited to cultural events rarely attended by outsiders. They’ll generously share their knowledge and pictures of that experience.

Kuna Indian mola
But even if your cruising plans don’t include the San Blas Islands, you’ll still want to view the incredible display of molas (fiber folk art) in the marina office.
We had a great 3-day stay at the marina with its mix of liveaboard and cruising boats. The facility has private shower suites and on-site washer/dryer. Lots of practical services are nearby, including two supermarkets’”and of course an assortment of restaurants, pharmacies, auto parts, paint and liquor stores, etc.
We didn’t have a chance to eat at The Fillin’ Station, next door to the marina, but we hear the inexpensive steak specials on Friday night are to die for.
Next time!
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Ladys Island Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ladys Island Marina
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Jul 11, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
New On-site Restaurant Now Open at Dolphin Cove Marina, Ashley River, Charleston, SC
Dolphin Cove Marina overlooks the Ashley River’s eastern shores north of unlighted daybeacon #16, northwest of the charted “R TR”. To reach this facility from the AICW’s run through lower Ashley River, your vessel must pass through/under the Ashley River Memorial/US 17 twin bridges.
Dolphin Cove is sometimes overlooked by cruisers who opt for the Charleston City Marina or, on the Cooper River side of Charleston, the Charleston Martime Center or Charleston Harbor Marina.
And, there is certainly nothing wrong with that plan of action. After all, both Charleston Harbor Marina and Charleston City Marina are CRUISERS NET SPONSORS!
However, if you seek a quieter, lower energy setting to coil your lines, consider Dolphin Cove, farther upstream on Cooper River. To access the principal Charleston historic and business districts, you will need a rental car, or a taxi ride, but now Dolphin Cove offers an on-site dining option, as you will discover below. PLEASE give the HydeOut a try, and tell everyone the SSECN sent you!!!
Subject: We have a bigger dock! Restaurant now open!
Cruising News:
The HydeOut (843-745-0426) at Dolphin Cove Marina is now open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week! See our website at www.hydeout-charleston.com for more information. We have 22 dedicated boatslips for your use to enjoy your dining experience.
Jennifer Carter
The shrimp sandwich is amazing! And you’ll love the fried green tomato sandwich if you like something lighter. Either way, the service is great, the food is fine and the setting is sublime. The whole family enjoyed it so much that we’ll be returning tonight (second time this week).
Paula
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Dolphin Cove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dolphin Cove Marina
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Jul 9, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments
ARGUS Confirms Shoaling on AICW Problem Stretch – AICW Channel South of McClellanville, SC to Awendaw Creek (St. M. 430 to 435)
Perhaps the #1 advantage of being Survice Enginnering’s ARGUS Project’s strategic web partner, is that the SSECN is the FIRST to receive shallow water updates from the various ARGUS volunteer research vessels traveling Southeastern USA coastal waters. And, that’s just what’s happened here!
Now, it isn’t exactly a surprise that the ARGUS equipment aboard M/V Elixir has just reported finding less than optimum depths along the path of the AICW south of McClellanville, South Carolina. After all, the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net declared these waters as an “AICW Problem Stretch” several years ago! However, it’s certainly nice for ARGUS to verify this data, and even to pin-point the shallowest spots!
Take a look at the first graphic below, and note the color coded ARGUS “solution sets” along the track of the AICW immediately southwest of marker #37. This stretch of the AICW lies just southwest of Jeremy Creek and McClellanville. As you can see, Elixir discovered some 6-foot MLW depths right along the mid-width of the AICW channel. Still enough for most vessels, but definitely getting on the thin side:
And, then we have a second set of ARGUS soundings (“solution sets”) depicted in the graphic below, just a small hop farther to the southwest (northeast of marker #40). Again, LOTS of 6-foot MLW depths noted here:
PLEASE NOTE that these depths (“solution sets”) are so NEW, they are NOT yet depicted on the Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net Chart View “ARGUS Layer.” That will be corrected on our next update from Survice Engineering, due to be received soon. However, we thought this data was so interesting, it was worth calling to the attention of the cruising community even before this update is received and processed!
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW Channel South of McClellanville, SC to Awendaw Creek
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch
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Jul 6, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Shoaling MAY No Longer Be An Issue At the AICW/Little River Inlet/Calabash Creek Intersection (Statute Mile 342)
The shoaling reported earlier at the three way intersection of the AICW, Little River Inlet and Calabash Creek seems to have abated. Captain Bell offers good advice concerning the markers through this area.
At the border of North And South Carolina, Heading North, We passed R4 and R2 right on the magenta line provided by Navionics on our chart plotter. After passing R2 we began to favor the outside or green side of the turn heading north. We were at .25′ of tide and did not see less than 11′ of water. Not a problem area.
David Bell
We transit this area almost daily and have had no troubles. The 2 casino boats that turn at this intersection leaving and returning from Little River Inlet have probably helped to keep the area clear of any shoaling. They draw around 8-9′.
Capt. John Schwab
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of This Intersection
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Jun 26, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Accessing Dolphin Cove Marina on the Ashley River (off the AICW, Charleston, SC)
Dolphin Cove Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!, overlooks the Ashley River’s eastern shores north of unlighted daybeacon #16, northwest of the charted “R TR”. To reach this facility from the AICW’s run through lower Ashley River, your vessel must pass through/under the Ashley River Memorial/US 17 twin bridges.
Local captains who regularly use these spans say that “14ft air draft” is worst case scenario at the highest spring tide. With a tidal range of almost 8ft, it’s possible to have 20ft+ at the center of the arched spans. NOTE that the twin spans in question open on demand except during morning and afternoon peak drive times.
re: `You need to clear a 14 ft air draft to get up river as they do not want to open the two Old Draw Bridges.’ [Earlier comment on accessing Dolphin Cove Marina]
Title 33: Navigation and Navigable Waters
CHAPTER I: COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
SUBCHAPTER J: BRIDGES
PART 117: DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS
Subpart B: Specific Requirements: South Carolina
117.915 ‘“ Ashley River.
(a) The draws of the US17 highway bridges, miles 2.4 and 2.5 at Charleston, shall open on signal; except that, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday through Friday and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, the draws need be opened only if at least 12 hours notice is given. The draws of either bridge shall open as soon as possible for the passage of vessels in an emergency involving danger to life or property.
Ron Widman
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Dolphin Cove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Dolphin Cove Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Ashley River Memorial Bridge
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Jun 18, 2012by: Claiborne Young No Comments 32.5363,-80.59549999
Important – Foul Bottom on Wimbee Creek Anchorage, near AICW Statute Mile 523, 6/18/12

View In Chartview

After following the mostly sheltered waters of the AICW running south from Charleston, while cruising to Beaufort, South Carolina, cruisers might well be excused when they exit the southwesterly entrance of the Ashepoo – Coosaw Cutoff, for gasping just a bit at the wide swath of open waters which spread out before them. This mighty body of water is the Coosaw River, which the AICW follows mostly west to the northern entrance of Brickyard Creek (thence south to Beaufort).
Our very good friends, Captains Mark and Diana Doyle, have obviously explored these waters themselves over the past couple of decades while researching their superb “Managing the Waterway” series of guide books.
As you will read below, one stream where they had dropped the hook before was Wimbee Creek. This stream cuts off from the Bull River, which itself makes into the Coosaw’s northern flank near Statute Mile 521 (see chart to the above right). HOWEVER A VERY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE GREETED OUR EXPERIENCED CRUISING DUO ON THIS OCCASION!
As you will read below, Diana and Mark discovered the hard way that a portion of Wimbee Creek has a very foul bottom. Farther upstream (see below), it’s apparently safe (or at least “safer”) to drop the hook, but the creek’s waters, southeast of charted “Chisolm,” where chart 11518 shows a sounding of “11” feet, are definitely off limits!
The SSECN is declaring a Navigational Alert for these waters!
Hi Claiborne,
On June 10, 2012, we anchored in Wimbee Creek, a popular anchorage off Bull River, running north of the Coosaw River in South Carolina. In 13 feet (MLLW) we deployed a Bruce anchor with 120′ of chain, compensating for the expected additional 7 feet of tide in this area. Like nearly all our surveyed anchorages in Georgia and southern South Carolina, we anticipated high current.
Unfortunately, within a few hours our ground tackle started behaving abnormally. At first we attributed it to opposing wind and current, but it was soon apparent something more serious and unusual was occurring.
The wind continued to climb and thunderstorms could be seen advancing so we decided to retrieve the anchor and re-set. We were stopped short at about 60 feet of chain’”in 13 feet of water’”stuck on something so large that any attempts by the windlass or by “running over” the anchor merely pulled our bow down!
We were stuck, short-scoped, with strong thunderstorm activity predicted throughout the night, but with no choice but to wait for TowboatU.S. to bring a diver the next morning.
We payed back out the recovered 60 feet of chain and spent an uncomfortable night.
Roy Stegall, a cruiser on s/v Gideon who works part-time for TowboatU.S. Port Royal, and Gene Clark, an experienced diver, arrived on the scene at 0745 hrs. the next morning. It took Gene a couple of hours of blind handwork in the tannic, murky high current to get control of the situation.
His report from down-under: A wide area of huge “rocks”‘”which we later determined were likely dumped construction debris from an old foundation’”covered the mud bottom. Some of the chunks were half the size of the TowBoatU.S. vessel! As the strong winds and currents continuously shifted, our chain had actually been pulled UNDER one of these huge boulders, requiring a rolling hitch and hard horizontal yank using the TowBoatU.S. vessel to pop it free.
This was no ordinary anchor-fouling. The anchor was free and about 20 feet from the boulder. This was a chain-fouling!
A resident yelled out from his dock that a nearby trawler, anchored further up the creek on what looked like a back-up nylon rode, had just lost its anchor and chain in the same area and was waiting to try to locate it.
So this area is a serious hazard and has claimed at least two boats.
The problem site is south of the center of Wimbee Creek, off the second residential dock. Do not anchor anywhere near the first through third docks. Instead, proceed further up the creek, and stay well off the shore.
The chartlet below shows our new anchored position, the fouled area, and the depths (and tides) we read thoughout this anchorage.
Our heartfelt thanks to the excellent team at TowBoatU.S. Port Royal for safely turning around what could have been an even worse situation!
Best and see you On the Water,
Captains Mark & Diana Doyle
http://www.OnTheWaterChartGuides.com
Not To Be Used For Navigation

Did I luck out! Two years ago, I anchored in that exact same spot (well, obviously, not exactly the same; I’d still be there).
Donovan
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To A “Navigation Alert” Position on Wimbee Creek, Southeast of Chisolm
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Jun 14, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Review of Charleston Maritime Center (Cooper River) and Charleston City Marina, AICW Statute Mile 469, Charleston, SC,
Having spent the last five years as a “full-time cruiser” at Charleston City Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, I am naturally biased in its favor. While the Charleston Maritime Center does have a great location, the current that Capt. Laudermilch mentions, as well as the wakes of passing boats, make the Maritime Center a poor choice for a long-term stay.
We spent the winter this year at the Charleston City Marina (Megadock) and were very pleased with it. I would not go in to the Maritime Center on the Cooper River or the City Marina on the Ashley side at other than slack tide if I didn’t have to. The current can be quite swift in either. Lots of folks love the Maritime Center for its proximity to the Harris Teeter, the hardware store, and the dog park. It is also a shorter walk to the main part of town. We like the City Marina much better for a variety of reasons – the docks and the bath facilities, the friendly and helpful staff, the van which takes people downtown every hour on the hour and to West Marine (and an adjacent Harris Teeter) every day at 11:30 AM. The pumpout boat come to your boat pretty much on demand for $5. The dockage prices aren’t
> that much higher than the Maritime Center, but the fuel prices aren’t cheap by any means. If you make a reservation ask to be on M dock near the bath house if possible. This shortens the walk to the parking lot. If you get at the end of the Megadock your shoes will get lots of wear during your stay. Good luck!
PS- If at all possible, time docking at Charleston Marine Center on or near slack. The current can make things exciting. Ask the guys there when it [slack tide] is when you call them for a slip, they’ll help you out.
Jim Laudermilch
48 Hatteras motoryacht “Snail’s Pace”
Have stayed at the Maritime Center marina 3 times, most recently June, 2012. It is my preferred marina in Charleston for the berthing rate and the great location for both groceries (H-T) and restaurants (many). The freighter and Navy traffic in the Cooper River can send a surge into the marina, but power boat wakes on the Ashley River can do the same for the marinas on that side of town.
The marina has recently upgraded the free laundromat to two machine sets, so it is possible to get a complete laundry done in a reasonable amount of time.
For me the only drawback to the marina is the limited number of slips, especially those for boats over 40′. The last two time I was at the marina I had to tie my 42′ sailboat to a 30′ floating dock. That’s not really a problem for me with a mid-ships lifeline gate. Boats with the gate further aft will want to back into one of these slips. If you are not comfortable tying to a 30′ dock, then make a reservation on one of the 40′ docks.
My recommendation is to stay at the Maritime Center if you are going to spend some time in Charleston. If you are just stopping for a night on a forced march up or down the ICW, then by all means use the Ashley River marinas as they are much more convenient.
John
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Charleston Maritime Center
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston Maritime Center
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Charleston City Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Charleston City Marina
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Jun 10, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Socastee Bridge Woes, AICW Statute Mile 371
Socastee swing bridge opens “on demand” UNLESS water traffic becomes heavy, as on a weekend, then bridge closures may be required every 15 minutes to accommodate road traffic. This is an understandable situation where the tender is responding to “on demand” from both boaters and drivers. Fortunately, this is a quiet section with no adverse currents to affect vessels having to circle or anchor.
HOWEVER, all of us here at the SSECN share Orient Moon’s mystification as to why the state of South Carolina spent many millions of dollars to construct a high-rise span, and then left, the old, decrepit swing bridge in place. You must have to be a politician to understand!
This bridge is a pain, you never know what to expect. They built a new high rise bridge next to it so I don’t understand why they cannot abide to their on demand status.
Orient Moon
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Directory Listing For Socastee Bridge
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Socastee Bridge
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Jun 5, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More Good Words for Osprey Marina, AICW Statute Mile 373
Osprey Marina lies at the southern foot of AICW section known officially as the Pine Island Cut (a. k. a. “the Rock Pile”), just as the Waterway sweeps south into beautiful Waccamaw River. Osprey Marina is one of the finest marinas you will ever discover, and these good folks are A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
Stayed the night in late April on our way south to Savannah. I second the great review. Very protected and super staff. Had a great Italian dinner in town with free transportation from the restaurant. Highly recommended stop!
Richard Brown
As of 6/5/2012, the Grill at Osprey Marina is still not open, but as Richard points out, there is an Italian restaurant nearby, Scatori’s (843-650-3370), that will come and pick you up at the marina, and then return you to the docks after dining. Their website is http://www.scatoris.com.
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Osprey Marina
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Jun 5, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
More Good Words for Bucksport Marina, AICW Statute Mile 377
Many good words about newly renovated (and under new ownership) Bucksport Marina and their on-site restaurant, continue to be recorded here on the Cruisers’ Net! And, of course, these good people are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS NET SPONSOR! PLEASE patronize them and all our other sponsors whenever possible!!!!
Glad to see them open yet once again; we were saddened by the appearance of the closed marina last year on our way south. We have been cruising the waterway for many years and have watched them open and close so many times we lost count. We have enjoyed many meals at the restaurant and love the homemade sausage. Bucksport is a quaint, cool and refreshing stop along the ICW.
Cap’n Norman s/v Blown Away
Called this morning [6/5/2012] to ask if they had Conway sausage. The person I spoke to told that they do NOT have it and that he did not know what the problem was. We always used to drop by and purchase more than a few pounds of this delectable sagey Hot and Mild sausage. Haven’t had any for several years.
Betsy Basch
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Directory Listing For Bucksport Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Bucksport Marina
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May 20, 2012by: Larry Dorminy No Comments
Good Words for Osprey Marina, AICW Statute Mile 373
Osprey Marina lies at the southern foot of AICW section known officially as the Pine Island Cut (a. k. a. “the Rock Pile”), just as the Waterway sweeps south into beautiful Waccamaw River. Osprey Marina is one of the finest marinas you will ever discover, and these good folks are A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR!
We visited Osprey earlier this week (17th May 2012) on our 50′ Beneteau, with a 6′ draft in an attempt to avoid some nasty storms. What a great place, a real hidden gem! Great surrounding, helpful staff, including driving us into town to refill our propane tank. The marina is clean and well cared for. We will be back.
Andrew
Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s South Carolina Marina Directory Listing For Osprey Marina
Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Osprey Marina
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