The Motts Channel cuts into the southeastern/eastern flank of the AICW, a short hop south and southwest of the Wrightsville Beach Bascule Bridge, just past the host of marina facilities which congregate south of this span. The Motts passage serves at least two important purposes for cruisers.
First, it provides access from the AICW to cruiser friendly Seapath Yacht Club (Marina), and, secondly, it is the most direct route to the very popular anchorages on Banks Channel. Clearly, this is an important side channel off the AICW.
Over the years, the western end of the Motts Channel, near markers #25 and #23, has shoaled and periodic dredging has been required. Judging from the latest reports here on the SSECN, shallowing is again being felt in these waters. Captain Harriet’s advice below will help navigators avoid these shoals, at least until they build farther into the channel!

It’s tricky making the turn into Motts Channel and guidelines on various sites vary. Boaters should be aware that the current will drag them as they make the turn. They need to stay very close to the green 25 and then gradually make their way to the red side. Also, swing wide at the turn from green markers G21 and G19.
Harriet Hardy

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Seapath Yacht Club

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Banks Channel Northern Anchorage

Click Here To View the North Carolina Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Banks Channel Southern Anchorage

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