Dismal Swamp Canal Route Discussion
The discussion below is copied from the T&T (Trawlers and Trawlering) mailing list. As there are so many contributions, it’s impractical to get individual permissions, so I’m just using first names.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. The alternate AICW Dismal Swamp Canal route is a great choice for slow moving craft, not in an hurry. Of course, you can sometimes encounter sunken debris, but the historical and ecological cruising offered by the Dismal is, in my opinion, more than worth it.
I can’t tell you about the water level but if you’ve never done the Dismal Swamp, you are in for a treat. Take it slow to avoid kicking up deadheads and enjoy the scenery. Stop for the night at the NC Visitor’s Center. If Karen enjoyed saying Peeankatank she will have fun with Pasquotank as well. It is one of the most beautiful stretches of river along the ICW. Elizabeth City is one of our mostest bestest favoritest places to stop. The grocery store will pick Karen up and drop her back off in their van when she goes to replenish your ice cream supply. Find the Colonial Diner for some good ol’ down home southern comfort food.
Regards,
Randy
MORNING STAR
It is a gorgeous run (I did the Carolina Loop this summer). Two locks and a few bridges. Stay in the clear when in the narrow part of the ditch or the overhanging tress will snap your antenna (personal experience!). Good Mexican place right on the canal just south of last lock and bridge. Eliz City very nice and accommodating. Rose Buddies are famous, but docks are first come first serve.
Jim
We just came through the Swamp in the last two days. It is a lovely and relaxing trip. Plenty of water but keep an eye out for snags.
The entire trip is a no-wake zone.
Stop at the free dock at the North Carolina Visitors’ Center. Expect to raft with other snowbirders. No electricity, but water is available at the north corner of the dock and people connect hoses to reach where needed. The ladies in the Center are tremendously helpful and knowledgeable.
Stop overnight at the Elizabeth City free dock or the bulkhead at the park for catamarans or anyone else if the regular docks are full. The local grocery will pick you up and bring you back. An easy walk to a Laundromat. All kinds of restaurants including a dinner movie theatre. For 5 or more boats, the city is still holding a Rose Buddy Party – wine and beer and chips on the dock and some good camaraderie.
Allen
Randy is right; Dismal Swamp route is exquisite. No go fast boats, and no wakes. In the cut canals, there are some dead heads lying on the bottom. They’re easy to avoid. To avoid them, travel slowly, and mind your separation with other vessels. This time of year, you’ll probably be traveling with other boats. Leave several hundred feet of space between you and the vessel you’re following, less for sail boats because their props are smaller and higher than the trawlers and cruisers.
Peg and Jim aboard Sanctuary
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