This discussion is from our friends on the AGLCA Forum. While we certainly appreciate Captain Ed’s recommendation of SSECN’s list of AICW Problem Stretches, we strongly recommend that a reader choose the listings of Problem Stretches under the various States found on our Homepage. These listings have the very latest comments and updates on the Problem Stretches within the particular state. For example, see /category/nc-aicw-problems/ for North Carolina. And whether you go inside or outside, we wish you the best!

By: CaptainEd on December 7th, 2014, 7:48 am
I think you’ll find this link to Salty Southeast Cruisers net helpful to give you the current places to be showing extra caution: /category/all-other-news/icw-problem-areas/. Keep in mind though that many of the caution areas are noted by cruisers who were just in the wrong place and would rather blame the charts than themselves. The tide isn’t too much of a factor if your boat draws less that 4′. It generally only ranges 0′ to 3′ down there. There are a few notable caution spots like Lockwood’s Foley, Shallotte Inlet, Carolina Beach and Mud Creek, but it’s not a difficult run. If you do decide to run outside familiarize yourself with Dial-A-Buoy for accurate reports of sea conditions. You don’t want to get caught 25nm off shore or having to come in through unfamiliar inlets if seas are running 8′ or more.
If you’re running a slow boat (less than about 16 kt. cruise) I’d recommend staying inside unless in a sailboat most of the way to Charleston as the main inlets are a good distance apart (Beaufort, Masonboro, Cape Fear, Georgetown, Charleston), and some of the lesser inlets are to be avoided. Also, the time you spend running in and out of the inlets will cost you much of the time you save by being able to run faster outside. Just remember to mind your wake in populated areas or you’ll hear about it over your radio.
Mind if I ask why you’re heading south instead of north at that time of year? You’ll find very few boats heading that way as most insurance companies prohibit going south during hurricane season. Also, it’s hot, and there are a lot of horse flies near Georgetown and through Georgia. It’ll also have you pushing against the current as you head north from the Gulf, and probably have you laying up down south for next winter.