The following discussion concerning Masonboro Inlet is copied from the Net’s “Ask Your Neighbor” page and the AGLCA mailing list.
Note that the term “direct route” below refers to the Shinn Creek passage from the AICW to Masonboro Inlet. Alternately, you can follow Motts Channel east from the AICW, past Seapath Yacht Club, and then turn south on the Banks Channel, thereby eventually reaching the inlet.

Is there good water between the ICW in Wrightville Beach and on out Masonboro Inlet? How is Masonboro Inlet? We draw 5′ on a 55ft boat.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.

The Masonboro inlet is a fine inlet. We are local. Just be careful to follow bouys, etc.
Miss Liberty

You can safely take the direct route out the inlet if headed north or go through the Wrightsville town area On the direct route be careful at the ICW intersection especially on point at the north side
Everywhere there Low tide is a problem
Greg and Susan Han

On the trip north, we traveled outside from Masonboro to Beaufort inlet. Other than massive traffic, it was the 4th of July, we didn’t experience any problems with either inlet. We followed Motts – Banks channel route to Masonboro with no problems, following the charted channel. One thing most may already know is to keep an eye out for smaller, 20 ft or less, stationary boats fishing in the inlet channel.
Perry & Kathy Sellars
M/V Marsh Mellow