Tom Dove

welcomes you to Kent Island, Chesapeake Bay, Maryland USA

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

It is possible to travel by boat along much of the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the United States without going "outside" into the Atlantic Ocean. How much of the trip you can make "inside" depends on your boat.

You MAY be able to travel southward from Manasquan to Cape May behind the barrier islands along the New Jersey coast. The channel was formerly less than three feet deep and there are many bridges, but this report from Susan Wagner, aboard HAVEN, indicates that the route might be worth checking out:

"During late September and early October 2002 we traveled southward from Manasquan to Cape May behind the barrier islands along the New Jersey coast. We found the water plenty deep for our draft of 3 1/2 feet. We have a 34 foot Marine Trader Trawler with a 22 foot clearance required for our mast. Bridge clearances were not a problem. Bridge clearances were as listed on the charts. The least water depth we found was about 6 feet (in soft sand) with the average depth being 12 feet. We plan to go north in the spring through the New Jersey ICW again. We did not realize that few people use this passage until we found we were about the only boat on the route. We loved it! The New Jersey ICW was easy, beautiful, had great anchorages, nice fuel stops, and, best of all, was well marked."

Delaware Bay from Cape May to the Chesapeake and Delaware canal is deep in the main channel, shallow in many other areas, and lacks protected anchorages. It is rough whenever the wind is from the northwest or southeast and has six-foot tides and swift currents. While a few rivers off Delaware Bay are attractive, it is widely considered the worst body of water in the world for cruising, a reputation gained in part by its extreme roughness when wind and current oppose each other.

Chesapeake Bay from the C and D Canal to Norfolk is used by deep-draft ships and has hundreds of beautiful, sheltered anchorages and dozens of fascinating shoreside towns. Cruisers agree that the prettiest anchorages on the Chesapeake are open to boats with less than six feet of draft. Overhead clearance is rarely a problem.

The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway extends from Norfolk to Miami. It is a protected route that allows vessels with less than about six feet of draft and up to 65 feet of vertical height to avoid going outside. Albemarle Sound, Pamlico Sound and the Neuse river in North Carolina can be rough; otherwise, the route consists of rivers, creeks and manmade cuts and is quite sheltered. Most of this page describes the Atlantic ICW.

The Florida Bay side of the Keys, south of Miami, is navigable (and beautiful) if your draft is less than five feet, although a three-foot draft is much better. This route runs along the edge of the Everglades.

Florida's West Coast has a few sections of protected waterways but is largely open to the Gulf of Mexico.

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway extends from Carabelle, Florida westward to Texas and connects with the Tennessee-Tombigbee waterway and the Mississippi River.

Use this information at your own risk and always with large doses of good seamanship, as it is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Copyright 1998-2001 by Tom Dove (Do not publish without permission).

First, my recommendations for detailed regional cruising books:

1. Guide to Cruising Chesapeake Bay from Chesapeake Bay Magazine (1819 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis MD 21403. 410/263-2662) is the standard; it's an annually revised, clearly illustrated reference for those waters of Maryland and Virginia.

2. The standard reference for the ICW is the venerable Waterway Guide, now back to its roots and published in Annapolis. There are three books. The Mid-Atlantic Edition will take you from the Chesapeake to Florida, while the Southern Edition covers Florida and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway through Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Tom is the Technical Editor.

3. The definitive guides to local cruising in the southeastern USA (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida), including the ICW, are by Claiborne Young (Watermark Publishing), P.O. Box 67, Elon College NC 27244. 800/803-0809). These have an excellent mix of navigation, facilities, history and local lore, entertainingly written by someone who truly knows the region.

4. For the ICW itself, the latest (Fourth Edition) Intracoastal Waterway Chartbook by John and Leslie Kettlewell (19 1/2 Lafayette Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866. 518/583-8985), is the most complete reference I've seen. The charts are now in color, which makes a world of difference in readability from the old black and white editions, there's a fine section on cruising tips, and a good list of anchorages. The authors also publish a handy laminated Bahamas Weather Card with times and frequencies of weather broadcasts.

5. Several people recommend St. Brendan's Isle, Inc., Cruisers Home Port Service for mail service, messages and discount marine supplies, which can be a challenge when you're away from home on an extended cruise.

6. There are MANY bridges across the ICW. While all fixed ones but the Julia Tuttle bridge in Miami (55 feet) have a vertical clearance of 65 feet, the low drawbridges must open for boat passage. Here is a list (which may not be completely up-to-date) of the bridge opening schedules.

7. For sheer pleasure reading and a real "feel" of cruising the ICW, get Dee Carstarphen's beautiful book, Narrow Waters. This is the sort of logbook only an expert writer and artist could create. There are plenty of practical tips and places to see, too.

I also recommend carrying small-scale offshore charts, in case you decide to go outside for part of the route. The chartbooks show river and harbor entrances from the ocean, but not the coastline between them.

The information below is from the cruising logs of:

ALMADA (Monk 36 trawler) - Ed & Dorothy Sved of Tierra Verde FL. KB2CUZ and KB2CUY.1998.

AQUILA (Islander 30) - John & Georgie Jackson. 2003.

BRIARPATCH (Endeavour 38, 5ft draft) - Julia & Barney Stallings of Oriental NC. 2002.

ALPHABET SOUP (Harbor Craft 25) - Jay Nichols. 1999.

BUTTER (Parker 25 outboard) - Joe Erwin of Cambridge MD. KB3FXZ. 2002.

CALLINECTES (Island Packet 31) - Jim & Gayle Clark of Stony Creek VA. KD4NHD and KD4NHC.1994-2001.

CRESCENDO (Ranger 33) - Tom & Pam Dove of Kent Island MD. K3ORC. 1994-95

DORY (Grand Banks 36) - Bill Sholar, Waterway liveaboard. AD0RY. 2002.

CAVALIER (Pearson 35) - Art & Martha O'Brien of Toms River NJ. KG2AG. 2000

DUETTE (30' catamaran) - Art & Peggy Frink of Yankeetown FL. N4SKG and KC4ZOI.

DRACO (35' Brewer cutter) - Frank Fitzpatrick & Kate Madigan of Sayville NY. KD2FT. 2000-2003

EPIC VI (Cape Trawler 46) - Rose & Varoujan "Pops" Karentz of Jamestown RI. W1YLB. 2001

FREEDOM (Freedom 40) - Leroy White, Waterway liveaboard. W3VW. 1992-2002.

GRAND SCHEME (Bristol 40) - Beth Hage, Waterway liveaboard. 1998.

GRAY PANTHER (CS 36 Traditional) - Jim & Ann Hays of Annapolis MD. 1999.

JULE III (38-foot ketch, 5'6" draft) - Bob & Ann Todd. 2001.

LE POINT (35-foot sloop) - Ramon & Jerry Coté of Quebec, Canada. November 1994.

L'ETOILE DU NORD (Crealock 37) - Bruce & Carole Ryden of Shoreview MN & Bayfield WI. 1998.

LILAJ (Pilgrim 40) - Tom & Lila Taylor of Welaka FL. N4LDX and KC4EBA.1996.

LUV IT (Irwin 38) - Charles & Freda Gandy of Annapolis MD. K3BXO and N3WUV. 1996-2001.

MIELLE (O'Day 34) - Kris Greene of Annapolis, MD. 1998-2000.

MISS EL (Sabre 32) - Tom Finta of Oriental NC. K8TF. 2003.

MOLLY B (Nordic Tug 26) - Lou Tetrault, Waterway liveaboard. 1994-95.

NARNIA (Morgan 34, centerboard) - Jo S. Roberts, Waterway liveaboard. 1997-98.

NINA (Beneteau Oceanis 440) - Kris and Joan Greene of Annapolis, MD. 2001-2002.

NUTMEG (Bahama 38 catamaran, 3.5' draft) - Bud & Nancy Herold of Gulf Shores AL. 2001.

OENGUS (C and C 36, centerboard) - Steve Wight. 1996-97.

PRIORITY (Tartan 34, 4 1/2 foot draft) - Dave and Jan Chase. 1997.

ROMA (Seafarer 29) - James & Susan Newsome. 2001.

ROSALIEANN (CSY 44, 5 foot draft) - Bob and Rosalie Beasley of Leonardtown MD. 2001.

SKATE (Valiant 37) -Bob and Dee McCorkle. 2003.

SNOWBIRD (Tartan 37, 4 1/2 foot draft) - Lawry Bennetts of Washington NC. KB3KR. 1985-86.

STERLING LADY (Powerboat) - Capt. Sterling of Key Largo FL

SPICE (Amel Super Maramu 53, 6.5 ft. draft) - Richard & Tamara Tate of Satellite Beach FL. Summer 2002.

SOUTHBOUND (C and C 29) - Gord & Maggie May, liveaboards. 1998.

SUMMER WIND (Caliber 40) - Jim Anderson. 2002.

TEELOK (Alberg 37) - Wayne & Sherrill Bower of Bowie MD. KB3RL and AA3KS.1994-95.

THRU THE YEARS (Mainship 34 trawler) - Bill and Sandy Cones, Punta Gorda FL. 2001.

WINDCHIME (Morgan 410) - Jack & Martha Bentley of Oriental NC. K4IMK.1997.

Note the dates and boat types beside each contributor. The ICW changes with time, especially after major storms such as Hurricane Floyd in 1999, which closed the Dismal Swamp canal for the autumn migration season and created temporary but widespread shoaling in the Carolinas. Many docks along the route were also damaged. If an area is marginal for your boat's draft, call on marine VHF channel 16 or the ham Waterway Net on 7268 kHz to get the latest news from other boats in the area.

Please send me your information so I can keep this list up to date and useful for all of us. Include your name, boat name and type, ham radio callsign (if you have one) and date of observation. No secondhand reports, please; let's make this page as reliable a reference as possible by using only primary sources -- folks who have actually been there.

Please email additions and updates to k3orc at arrl dot net, substituting @ for "at" and . for "dot" in the address, without spaces (I list it this way to prevent automated spambots from finding my address).

MILE -4, VA - HAMPTON ROADS

There is an excellent anchorage between Old Point Comfort and the Hampton Bridge Tunnel (I-64). Go around the Chamberlin Hotel which is a prominent landmark and enter at Fl G "1". There is space for several dozen boats, holding is good and it is well protected. You can dinghy in to the marina or the hotel, visit the fort, or go up to the bridge to a restaurant that is up there. Stay out of the way of the fishing boats up in the corner. The Ft. Monroe marina and yacht club will take non-military transients. (Rosalieann, Freedom)

MILE -3.9, VA - LAFAYETTE RIVER

Anchor just off the channel and in the vicinity of the yacht club. You should find about 10' of water. (Teelok)

MILE -0.5, VA - ELIZABETH RIVER

Beware of the ferry, whose route is uncharted and course is hard to predict. (Rosalieann)

MILE 0, VA - HOSPITAL POINT

Much-used anchorage just beyond R"36" southbound, adjoining ICW channel. Good holding, but can become choppy from wakes. Crab pots are throughout the anchorage so be careful
when the tidal current changes or you might drift into one or more of them. A good starting point or layover for the bridge restrictions of Norfolk/Suffolk. (Freedom, Jule III)

MILE 28, NC - DISMAL SWAMP CANAL - NORTH CAROLINA VISITOR'S CENTER

If you take the Dismal Swamp Canal -- and you should if your draft is less than about six feet -- this is a good, free tieup spot with water and shoreside heads. You can also anchor in the canal at night, as the locks do not open then and no traffic passes through in darkness. Show an anchor light anyway. In season, there's a raft all the way across the channel! No services, but a gas station right beside the lock at the south end of the Dismal. Hurricane tieups at dolphins outside Deep Creek and South Mills locks or inside at bulkheads. There are tie-ups north of lock at South Mills to wooden poles along east side. Great wall along west side, but nothing to tie to. The locks open only four times per day (or two, or zero if the water level in the feeder lake gets low); the first is 0830 and the last is 1530. Immediately south of Deep Creek lock are a couple of free docks which are a short walk to a Food Lion supermarket, an auto parts store and a restaurant. You can leave early because you don't have to wait for the first bridge opening of the day. (Crescendo, Draco, Freedom, L'Etoile Du Nord, Oengus, Almada, Dory)

MILE 44, NC - DISMAL SWAMP CANAL ROUTE

Behind # 13 at Goat Island is a pretty spot with good holding. (Almada)

MILE 51, NC - DISMAL SWAMP CANAL ROUTE - ELIZABETH CITY TOWN DOCK

The charm of this town is in the residents, whose Rose Buddies present flowers to the ladies and greet all with a wine and cheese party at 5 pm. Restaurants and marina facilities are on the waterfront and it's less than two miles to shopping. Free 48-hour slips (one water faucet, no electricity) can accomodate 15-20 boats. To starboard, just south of the bridge, are transient slips with power - very reasonable, rented by the accounting firm by the docks - more sheltered in a SE blow, when the whole area gets rough. NOTE: Elizabeth City Twin Highway Bridge opens on demand except from 0700-0900 and 1600-1800, when it opens only at 0730, 0830, 1630 and 1730. (Crescendo, Draco, Freedom, Oengus, Dory)

MILE 12, VA - VIRGINIA CUT ROUTE - GREAT BRIDGE

It doesn't get more convenient than this, but there's little privacy. Stores are close by and there's tieup space at the town bulkhead. (Crescendo)

MILE 30, VA - VIRGINIA CUT ROUTE - BLACKWATER CREEK

Reported 6 feet and quiet, just off ICW at mouth of creek. Deeper water inside the creek. The superb anchorage has a tricky entrance. Best water is halfway between the ICW Marker "46" (leave to port entering) and the tip of the point on the right side of the creek, which actually looks like an island of marsh grass. There were no stakes there this year.  After passing the "island" at the entrance, favor the right side for 6 ft depth. (LePoint, Mielle, Nina)

MILE 50, VA - VIRGINIA CUT ROUTE - COINJOCK

No anchorage, but several marinas, and some are better than others. Call other cruisers to check. April, 13, 2001 - One of the marinas is closing/closed. Harrison's I think. Coinjock gave us a nice fly swatter as a gift. Motel available. (Crescendo, Rosalieann, Butter)

MILE 57, NC - VIRGINIA CUT ROUTE - BUCK ISLAND

Just N of Buck Island in 7-8 feet, near G "153" (stay clear of the 5-foot shoal) is the closest anchorage to the north end of Albemarle Sound. Not scenic, but functional. (Crescendo)

MILE 61, NC - VIRGINIA CUT ROUTE - BROAD CREEK

A well-protected anchorage just north of Albemarle Sound. At G "163 PA go 265 degrees to the funnel leading into the creek; you will not actually see the anchorage until you're in it, but it opens into a wide space with 9-10 feet MLW and good holding. Distinguishing landmark is the brown, low land void of trees to N of the entrance. About 1/2 mile before entrance, look for a large yellow commercial float to starboard. (Freedom)

MILE 83, NC - LITTLE ALLIGATOR RIVER

Anchor just at the mouth of the river or swing south past the first bend. (Almada)

MILE 100, NC - ALLIGATOR RIVER

In expected heavy weather from the west, there's good holding on the western shore between Newport News Point and the Discontinued Spoil Area. Expect some tide surge. (Freedom)

MILE 101, NC - ALLIGATOR RIVER

In southeasterlies, the eastern shore area between Swan Creek gives some shelter. Enter just below G "37" and note that it is limited to medium draft vessels. (Freedom)

MILE 102, NC - ALLIGATOR RIVER - DEEP POINT

Opposite Deep Point in 7 feet. Decent shelter and holding (used by tugs and barges as well as pleasure craft). One ICW veteran called this his "favorite anchorage," perhaps because he often got shaken up in Albemarle Sound en route. You can anchor just in front of the mooring. (Le Point, Rosalieann)

MILE 103, NC - ALLIGATOR RIVER - BEAR POINT

For northerly protection, anchor north of R46. It is far enough away from ICW that wakes are not a problem. (Luv It)

MILE 104, NC - ALLIGATOR RIVER - TUCKAHOE POINT

Some guides and cruisers recommend this and others don't, saying it is unprotected in any weather and has marginal holding. One says they have had no problem anchoring (have done it 3 times), the water seems deeper than the chart says. With a 4 1/2' draft, they went much farther in and anchored just offshore for Northerly protection.(Freedom, Luv It)

MILE 127, NC - PUNGO RIVER - S END OF ALLIGATOR/PUNGO CANAL

A wooded, scenic favorite, two miles south of the Wilkerson high bridge. Anchor north of the Marsh in 9-15 feet with good shelter from waves but not wind. Good holding. Enter between R "24" and G "23" and travel 360 degrees for 1/2 mile then follow the middle of the creek about 3/4 mile farther, where you can anchor in a large open area protected from waves all around by marsh grasses. (Freedom, Le Point, Luv It)

MILE 134, NC - DOWRY CREEK

Besides the well-regarded marina, there is also a place to anchor up the creek beyond the marina. We didn't honor all the markers coming in, but it was high tide so we were OK. (Rosalieann)

MILE 136, NC - BELHAVEN

Nice town with historic houses, friendly people, excellent shopping facilities and a couple of pretty good restaurants. Best to take a slip where the breakwater will give shelter, as the anchorage is not so good. Golf carts licensed for streets are available at marinas for shopping trips. Why can't all states do this? You can't take the golf carts out after dark or the police will confiscate them. Belhaven rolls up the sidewalks early, and few stores are open on Saturday or Sunday so don't expect to do much shopping then. There is a hardware store downtown, just a 10 minute walk from the marina (or 2 min by golf cart) that seems to have almost everything. It is even open on Saturday and Sunday, only in the afternoon on Sunday. (Crescendo, Rosalieann, Skate)

MILE 136, NC - PUNGO CREEK

Attractive, spacious, sheltered, 7-8 feet of water and about 2 miles from Belhaven by dinghy. Holding may be poor, and watch for crab pots. (Snowbird, Crescendo, KE4OIL)

Mile 140, NC - SLADE CREEK 

No markers, but no problems. Anchored in 6 ft off Spellman Ck.  Some local traffic with no lights.  Hang an anchor light. (Thru The Years)

MILE 153, NC - EASTHAM CREEK

Anchor in the creek in 7 feet with good shelter but fishermen and local boat traffic, or just off the ICW in 10 feet opposite Store Pt. (Le Point)

MILE 157, NC - R.E. MAYO COMPANY

Commercial shrimp and bait operation located on the west bank past the bridge. Convenient place to tie up for $ 0.20 per foot and $ 0.10 per foot for electricity. It is primitive, subject to wakes, no showers, only an outhouse, but a good place to stretch your legs. Ice is cheap! (Jule III)

MILE 159, NC - GALE CREEK

Convenient to north entrance to Bay River, with good holding and wave protection in about 7 feet. (Crescendo)

MILE174, NC - BROAD CREEK

Enter marked channel and anchor. The deep area NW of #3 is popular but anywhere past there is OK. Traps may be thick in season. The area between Brown Ck and Gideon Ck (my creek) are also popular for those wishing to go farther in. (Windchime)

MILE 179, NC - SOUTH RIVER

A bit out of the way since it is 3 nm off the magenta line. First part is wide and open but the shore is isolated and heavily wooded. River proceeds a good 4 nm past the entrance and narrows down for good protection. The waterway chart kit cuts off much of the river but it can easily be negotiated if you don't have the chart by staying in the center. (KE4OIL)

MILE 181, NC - ORIENTAL

Probably the sailing center of North Carolina, with fine facilities in town and hospitality. In Oriental harbor, anchor between R "8" and the 45' bridge (sailboats) or above the bridge off Dewey Point (motorboats). Only 5 feet and holding is marginal in mud; two anchors recommended. If you arrive early, you may find free space (room for two boats) at the town dock. Anchorage space is now limited by docks built for a new marina next to the bridge. If you have a short mast, proceed through that bridge and up the creek on the left (Green's Creek). Well protected anchorage, especially farther up (1/4 to 1/2 mi.) Whittaker Creek has three marinas, two of which have some transient slips, two repair yards, a sailing school and lots of private docks but there is not really any room to anchor. If the anchorage is full, some will anchor outside the breakwater in the lee of the village when wind is calm or from the North. Consignment shop owner has died, and Village Hardware isn't as good. Motel available. A new marina is now open with transient slips- Oriental Harbor Marina, just inside the breakwall. There is a small restaurant on site and some provisioning available. There is a nice boardwalk and public town dinghy dock. The 'consignment' shop has been turned into a new restaurant called the "Oriental Steamer". (Freedom, Luv It, Grand Scheme, Rosalieann, Butter, Dory, Miss El, Draco)

MILE 185, NC - ADAMS CREEK/CEDAR CREEK

Very pleasant spot with 7-foot depths, attractive shoreline, good shelter, good holding and plenty of room. Enter at Qk Fl "9" (NOTE: reported missing April 1999) and proceed in 7' MLW. A favorite before tackling a potentially nasty Neuse River northbound. There is a dinghy-accessible shrimp processing plant at mile 187.7 where you can buy shrimp directly from the sorting line. Delicious! (Crescendo, Freedom, Luv It)

MILE 185, NC - NEW BERN

This is a side trip up the Neuse River. It is located off the ICW by some 14 miles, but worth it if you have the time. There are a couple marinas and an anchorage area. (Teelok)

MILE 204, NC - BEAUFORT (say "boh-fert")

Major boating center, especially for sailing cruisers, and the downtown waterfront has become very commercial, with rental moorings. First good access to Atlantic Ocean south of Norfolk, so worldwide range of hailing ports to be seen on transoms. At the "back door," enter Town Creek BETWEEN G "1" and G "7" as one marks the creek and the other the channel to the bridge. More popular (but rougher) anchorage is at the town front, and a dinghy dock is there, along with privately maintained moorings (use at your own risk). If you use chain or double anchors to prevent swinging into the breakwater, anchorages in Taylor Creek are possible on the southern shore or upstream at the fish plant. CAUTION: Do not anchor near the center of the channel; a 100' fish-processing ship uses it before daylight and in early evening. Traveling south in late fall, you will probably notice a moderating in temperatures about this point. Cape Hatteras seems to be a dividing line for climate. (Crescendo, Freedom, Luv It)

MILE 207, NC - MOREHEAD CITY NAVIGATION NOTE

Marks are not easy to see, and don't mistake the newer "3B" for "4A" (Crescendo)

MILE 210, NC - SPOONER'S CREEK

Enter at marker #9 by the large white building (Spooner's) to this beautiful anchorage among homes. Anchor past the marina in about 5 feet. Entrance has a range but local daymarks need attention. Channel is shoaling badly so stay center channel toward concrete breakwater (wide yellow-painted vertical stripe on bulkhead). Channel was dredged to 7-9 ft in 2001. There is room for a dozen boats in well- protected places. (Windchime, Freedom, KE4OIL)

MILE 233, NC - OLD CHRIS-CRAFT FACTORY

Barely 5 feet at entrance (favor south side) but 7 feet inside. Only room for 2-3 boats and fighter jets roar overhead but good shelter. (Crescendo)

MILE 245, NC - MILE HAMMOCK

Poor holding reported by some (although a MAX, a big CQR and a Delta anchor worked just fine for others) and the only place to stop in the long stretch through Camp Lejeune. Sometimes has lots of helicopter noise. Rarely closed to pleasure craft (during Marine Corps landing exercises), but plan an alternate just in case. (Crescendo, Freedom, Luv It, Oengus) Make sure that your anchor is set well and watch that you don't get blown aground as you swing. The entrance to Mile Hammock Bay has been dredged to a minimum of 12 feet into the center of the basin at low tide in early June 2001. (Almada, Rosalieann, Briarpatch, KE4OIL)
NAVIGATION NOTE 2002: In the Camp LeJeune area of NC, we went aground in mid-channel right off marker G"63". It was mid tide or thereabouts.  We found deep water to pass through only 10 feet or so away from G"63". (Spice)

MILE 246, NC - NEW RIVER INLET NAVIGATION NOTE

Watch for shoaling and cross-currents where the ICW crosses the New River Inlet. New River Marina - still the cheapest diesel fuel we've found anywhere on ICW. (Le Point, Draco)

MILE 276, NC - NIXON CHANNEL

Enter south of the small marsh islet and anchor 50 yards inside in about 12 feet. Set the hook closer to the south bank. The entrance will carry about 8 feet MLW. (Briarpatch)

MILE 283, NC - WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH

Deeper water to stbd, near the reeds when heading in (south side of the channel), not the north side which appears bold. Anchor carefully, perhaps with two hooks (some report marginal holding) behind coastal barrier islands and S of bridge in 10 feet. Plenty of room, but complex currents and fast powerboat traffic, even after dark. Sleep to sounds of ocean surf. Avoid on weekends and holidays. Daymarks have been shifted and renumbered since the 1996 hurricane and subsequent re-dredging. Watch swing room. Tide, current, & wind cause boats to swing wildly in every direction. Good holding ground and great dinghy docks at bridge. It may be possible to come in Shim Creek and anchor south of Mott Channel. Most people anchor up by the fixed bridge. Police come around to be sure you are out of the channel. Motel available. (Crescendo, Freedom, L'Etoile Du Nord, Oengus, Rosalieann, Butter)

MILE 295, NC - CAROLINA BEACH HARBOR

Sheltered from waves and off the waterway. Enter at daymark #161 and follow local channel marks to an outer anchorage beyond #4 in up to 33 feet of water but watch the unmarked sharp shoaling from 12 feet to 3 feet in middle of harbor near #4. Ask for advice on Channel 16 from locals, who are helpful. A channel extends beyond #7 to the downtown waterfront with fuel and amenities. Very busy area on weekends and holidays, with small powerboats and PWCs everywhere, but a better solution than Dutchman's Creek at Southport. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 295, NC - SNOW'S CUT

The current here is swift; time your passage to catch an ebb (southbound). (Crescendo) Halfway from the bridge to the western end of the cut, bottom contours varied widely--from 6 feet to 20 feet in a couple of yards. (Spice)

MILE 297, NC - CAROLINA BEACH STATE PARK MARINA

Recently rebuilt and improved, dredged to 5 feet in the channel (but shoaled to 2-3 feet by Spring 1998), several transient slips, and a nice facility ashore. (Callinectes)
NAVIGATION NOTE 2002: we saw 7 feet of water in the ICW near the inlets in Carolina Beach NC. (Spice)

MILE 308, NC - BALD HEAD ISLAND

No anchorage, but a nice modern marina at the Cape Fear River entrance with floating docks and a restaurant. Golf carts to rent for exploring the island, which is worth a visit. Marina is VERY susceptible to SE winds. It has become a Yacht Club and prices are up. Grocery which was formerly right in the marina has been relocated to 2 miles away so you have to rent a cart to get there. (Crescendo, Rosalieann)

MILE 309, NC - SOUTHPORT MARINA

One-half mile south of G "1" upon re-entering the ICW from the Cape Fear River. Went to Cricket Cove Marina on the way north (right on the ICW) and from there went out the Little RIver inlet and up to the Cape Fear River. This avoids the pontoon bridge, which was not opening at low tide due to too little water (2001). (Freedom, Rosalieann) We anchored in the OLD BASIN, or the first one you'd see upon reentering the ICW from the Cape Fear River. We stayed very very close to the fishing boat docks on the starboard side and anchored in the center of the basin with 8 feet of water at low tide. Free dock was available. Room for only one or two boats of our size to anchor. Very very soft mud; used CQR and Northill anchors. (Spice)

MILE 310, NC - DUTCHMAN CREEK

Near Southport, a town that gets good reports from several cruisers. Enter at center channel to avoid shoaling on either shore; the entire entry is somewhat shallow, so approach slowly and watch the tide to avoid being trapped inside at low tide. Anchor near mouth of creek in 12 feet or farther up. May have mosquitoes, but otherwise a fine spot. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 311, NC - UNNAMED GUNKHOLE

This is not for deep draft boats. It is referred to by locals as the 'wildlife ramp' because of the boat ramp there. It is actually a canal dredged to construct levees for a cooling water channel from the Brunswick County Nuclear Plant to Caswell Beach. It extends a little more than a mile past the ramp to an abrupt dead end. Depth is consistent 9-10 ft all the way. There are underwater intakes at the very end on the canal, where cooling water is drawn into the plant. Because of its depth and generally narrow dimension with plenty of trees, it is a favorite anchorage for local commercial vessels during hurricanes. Just south of R8, turn north and pass over a submerged dam and beyond the signs saying that boats can't enter. At low water, we read no less than 6' at the entrance, though we did follow directions from a boat that had sounded their way in and recommended that we hold far to port upon entering, and far to starboard when we got past the submerged dam. We had no less than 8' the rest of the way in. We anchored in 9' of water, far beyond the boat ramp that is well used by locals. (Luv It, Alphabet Soup)

MILE 338, NC - SUNSET BEACH PONTOON BRIDGE

Have your camera ready for this relic. Occasional commercial/government vessels will force openings besides the scheduled hourly ones, so don't hesitate to move up early. (Freedom)

MILE 342, SC - LITTLE RIVER and CALABASH

Some like the anchorage on the ocean side of the ICW intersection in 13-15 feet (Le Point). Also possible to anchor or go to marina on the Calabash side and get a ride to one of the many seafood restaurants that make the town notable. (Crescendo). Stay to port on the way in, shoal to stbd seems more permanent than most. (Oengus)

MILE 354, SC - BAREFOOT SWING BRIDGE

This is a new bridge (2000) which is just south of green daymark #21A. It monitors Channel 9 and opens on demand. The draw is on the red side and there appears to be a shallow area extending out from the green side between the bridge and the northern end of the Barefoot Landing dock, so don't cut directly from the draw to the dock. This bridge is currently uncharted and will not open if the wind is over 30 knots (!). (Draco, Aquila)

MILE 354.3, SC - MYRTLE BEACH and BAREFOOT LANDING, SINGLETON LAKE

One of the "must" stops on the Waterway, just south of the two-mile Rock Pile section. This attractive shopping center with restaurants, theaters and a variety of stores adjoins the ICW, an airport and the main highway. Free dockage at the 1000' floating dock for two nights and rafting is expected (rig fenders on your outboard side after docking); try to avoid on weekends. Current can be fairly strong; use spring lines. No electricity or fuel. A shoal extends into the ICW from the north end of the pier, and a hard shoal was reported to the south in 1997, so don't cut in too soon. Please, NO WAKE when you pass. Motel available. (Callinectes, Crescendo, Draco, Freedom, Priority, Butter) No longer has water available. I call this the most expensive free dockage in the world but would not miss it. (Almada)

MILE 376, SC - WACCAMAW RIVER

We rode out a nasty northeasterly blow in this pretty spot behind the small island across from Fl G "29" and had excellent protection in 14 feet of water. Enter a little below marker #29 and favor the mainland side. Anchor in 10+ feet anywhere from entrance to up behind the island. Holding seems better farther in off the river. Room for 2 or 3 boats.There are lots of other fine possibilities along this wild and beautiful river, especially close to some of the little islands. Buoy your anchor with a tripline on the Waccamaw, as there are lots of underwater logs. Time your run to catch a favorable current, which runs strongly. (Crescendo, Draco)

MILE 382, SC - PRINCE CREEK

This meander of the Waccamaw is gorgeous. At FlG 4sec"53". Deep and narrow. (Crescendo, Thru The Years)

MILE 383.5, SC - COW HOUSE CREEK

Enter Cow House Creek (opposite Wacca Wachie Marina) and favor Richmond Island at the entrance. As you go around the bend toward the straighter part of Cow House Creek, gradually work over to mid stream. Continue on a few hundred yards (we only went to the far end of the reeds on the right) and anchor midstream in 8+ feet. Quiet and very pretty. Holding good. Decent current! Recommend a trip line, just in case... Room for 2 or 3 boats. (Draco)

MILE 383.5, SC - MURRELL'S INLET

Folks at the friendly marina will arrange a pickup from the town to go to a restaurant and to Brookgreen Gardens. There are also good anchorages along this river, but there is barge traffic. (Rosalieann)

MILE 396, SC - BUTLER ISLAND

A natural wildlife scenic area with at least two nesting eagle families is behind Butler island; there's good holding in 20-28 feet but use an anchor tripline near the island. Well protected from east through south. (Freedom)

MILE 403, SC - GEORGETOWN

You can anchor off the waterfront or live more easily by going to one of the marinas in this nice little town. Stay a day, have breakfast at the local cafe, and visit with the friendly folks. Great place for kids at Hallowe'en - merchants dress up and hand out candies, hundreds of volunteers make it a safe adventure, right next to the waterfront. Block ice reported available in Fall 1997 at Georgetown Ice Company. The noisy steel mill at the end of the anchorage works 24 hours a day. There are several small shrimp boats anchored bow and stern in the middle of the anchorage, limiting swing room (Crescendo, Oengus, Priority, Dory)

MILE 415, SC - MINIM CREEK

A fairly good spot to spend a night. We found enough water with a draft of six feet. (Teelok)

MILE 418, SC - NORTH SANTEE RIVER

Plenty of room NW of Fl R "18" in 13-19 feet. (Crescendo)

MILE 420, SC - SOUTH SANTEE RIVER

A lovely spot for sunsets, complete with alligators, so don't let the cat go swimming. Can be buggy. Anchor either E or W of the ICW route. (Crescendo)

MILE 430, SC - MCLELLANVILLE

Good cheap fuel at the Texaco sign. No anchorage in the harbor, which is busy with commercial shrimpers, and watch out for them if you tie up. (Freedom, Rosalieann)

MILE 430/431, SC - MCLELLANVILLE NAVIGATION NOTE

Serious shoaling of channel. Do not cut close to markers. (Crescendo)

MILE 435.5, SC - AWENDAW CREEK

Within Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, this anchorage is fully surrounded by marsh grasses and has many birds. A pod of dolphins played around our boat for about two hours. Enter the creek across from marker 48 and follow it around a long curve past 30 feet of water until you reach 12-foot depths. The anchor set well at first try. (Luv It)

MILE 436, SC - HARBOR RIVER

Some anchor just off the waterway in 23 feet, but others recommend going farther toward the ocean to the 8-foot area. (Le Point)

MILE 448, SC - PRICE CREEK

Good holding. A staging area for the restricted Ben Sawyer bridge, about two hours away at seven knots. (Freedom)

MILE 454, SC - LONG CREEK

Easy entrance and good holding. You're in a marsh area so no wind protection, but good water protection. (Teelok)

MILE 455, SC - DEWEE CREEK

See for miles across the grassy marshes in this beautiful place. As in other places with strong tidal currents, try to pick a spot where the wind blows across the creek, not in line with it, to avoid a wind-against-current fiasco. (Crescendo)

MILE 461, SC - INLET CREEK

N of waterway at "G119" in about 11ft. Only one mile north of the Ben Sawyer bridge. Good place for catching morning bridge opening. (Snowbird)

MILE 462, SC - BEN SAWYER BRIDGE

Monitor VHF 13 and check the morning and evening opening restrictions. The marina just south of the bridge is convenient and friendly while you wait for repairs to the bridge mechanism. Inlet Creek at mile 461 is a good layover point north of the Ben Sawyer. Watch for shoaling for about a mile north of the bridge. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 464, SC - COOPER RIVER

MILE 469, SC - CHARLESTON HARBOR

Good anchorages in the Ashley River are adjacent to the USCG, before the Municipal Marina and to port, next to the 55' bridge at the marina. Holding is good, but current is swift. Both Ashley and Municipal marinas have dinghy docks and the municipal marina may have rental moorings, There's a courtesy car for slipholders at Ashley marina. Motel available. Ashley Marina runs an on-demand shuttle bus from about 8am to 9pm, and will take transient tenants to and from the marina, and between shopping, dining, and tourist spots. (Freedom, Rosalieann, Butter, Dory)

MILE 471, SC - WAPPOO CREEK

15 feet of water if you stay close to the main shore behind this marshy island (approach from N only) just south of the drawbridge. Strong current but good shelter from wind. Purple martins keep the bug population under control. Dinghy ashore for easy access to groceries and a bar/grill. The bridge is restricted 0630-0900 on weekdays.(Crescendo, Freedom, Dory)

MILE 472, SC - ELLIOTT CUT NAVIGATION NOTE

The water really rips through between Wappoo Creek and the Stono River; expect five knots. Try to hit this spot with a favorable current and do give a call on VHF 13 and 16 before entering; it's hazardous to meet another vessel here. Turbulent water has taken a toll on the sides of the cut, with homes on the shore trying their best to hold their real estate. (Crescendo, Freedom, Luv It)

Anchor between ICW and Buzzard's Roost marina. Plenty of room. (Windchime)

MILE 488, SC - CHURCH CREEK

East of "G77" is a long stretch suitable for anchoring. Little protection from wind. Boats on Waterway Net have reported using this anchorage in 1998. (Snowbird)

MILE 495, SC - TOOGOODOO CREEK

Enter approximately 1/4 mile south of R "102" and stay close to the north shore after avoiding the shoal at the ICW junction. Watch your chart closely. Go beyond the bend for good holding and protection from weather in about 20' water. (Freedom)

MILE 496, SC - TOM POINT CREEK

This whole area is deserted, but this creek is downright spooky. Excellent depth, holding and shelter, and you might as well be on the moon. I called a ham on the radio just to hear a voice from outside. (Crescendo)

MILE 497, SC - STEAMBOAT CREEK

Turn south at R "110" and then make a wide swing to avoid the shoal at R "2" in the creek. Good holding and shelter. (Freedom)

MILE 501.5, SC - FISHING CREEK

1/2 mile south of Dawho River Bridge, stay close to R "132", anchor in about 20 feet MHW near that mark, preferably with a Bahamian moor. Tidal range here is about 8 feet, so expect strong current (we had about 2 knots much of the time). Grasses, no trees, but not much fetch from any direction. There is a boat landing and floating dock right under the new fixed bridge - saw a trawler do a fast pit stop for their dog (Luv It, Rosalieann, Thru The Years)

MILE 512, SC - ASHEPOO RIVER

High banks with trees make this pretty. 17 feet of water close to the N shore. (Crescendo)

MILE 516, SC - ROCK CREEK

Hold to starboard as you enter. The best depth (12 ft.) and holding are beyond the first large bend to the right. Very little boat traffic, surroundings are marsh grasses. (Luv It)

MILE 517, SC - COOSAW RIVER NAVIGATION NOTE

Shoaling to six feet or less at MLW reported between markers 184 and 186 (Waterway Net, 10/21/98)

MILE 530, SC - BRICKYARD CREEK

About 8-10 feet at MLW behind the small island in this meander. Visually nice, but aurally impaired by jets from nearby Parris Island airbase. Can be buggy, too. Tide range is about 7 feet. (Crescendo)

MILE 536, SC - BEAUFORT (say "byoofert")

The anchorage off the waterfront is imperfect and the town is interesting to explore, so this is a good place to stop at a marina. Real stores are close by, the architecture is lovely, and lots of movies are shot here. Or, southbound, turn at the bridge, favor the starboard side, and go up Factory Creek. Farther up the creek, the passage turns toward the north and becomes much wider, allowing room for swinging on the hook in less current. Ladies Island Marina is "dinghy friendly". Groceries (?), booze, laundry, and bank are in easy walking distance. Motel available. The Downtown Marina has a courtesy car if you take a slip. A nice and convenient municipal dinghy dock is next to the Downtown Marina, which also allows cruising boats to tie up for the day (no overnights). Room for dozens of dinghies and 3-4 cruising boats. (Crescendo, LilaJ, Butter, Dory)

MILE 544, SC - CHOWEN (or COWEN) CREEK

Up creek about 2 mi north of QFL light at mouth of creek in 12 feet SE of grassy island. Very good holding but protection poor. Rode out Hurricane Kate here on 21 Nov 85. Enter from the South off the Beaufort River. 11' to 17' at LLW at junction of Cowen & Distant Island Creeks. Tides can exceed 10' and current is rather strong, but one anchor held very well. Quiet, lovely anchorage with very little traffic; only a few small fishing boats during daylight hours. (L'Etoile Du Nord, Snowbird, Aquila)

MILE 554, SC - SKULL CREEK (HILTON HEAD)

Enter from N and anchor in 10-11 foot depths among tiny islands. Beautiful anchorage. Note the 6-foot tide range and strong current. The 2 ft spot shown on the chart at the south end of the anchorage, next to the marina, has been dredged to greater than 10 ft.  As a result, traffic now passes through this alternate channel, but you can still anchor on the east side. (Crescendo, Nina)

MILE 558, SC - JARVIS CREEK (HILTON HEAD)

A bail-out anchorage to port (southbound) at Ferry Point near G "1" and about one mile south of the high bridge. Somewhat narrow but good holding in 14'-17' MLW. (Freedom)

MILE 564, SC - BROAD CREEK (HILTON HEAD)

Cruisers miss this one because it is just off the strip charts. Travel up Broad Creek turning east past Opossum Point. Anchor above or below the mooring field in good holding and good protection. Adjacent Palmetto Marina is dinghy friendly, fuel, travel lift, mechanics, shore side restaurants and a mile walk to supermarket. Recommend two anchors because of tidal current. (Epic VI)

MILE 565, SC - BULL CREEK

It is easier to anchor in the 8-13 foot section above the bend than in the deeper water downstream. Good holding and adequate swinging room. Friendly local shrimpers. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 583, GA - THUNDERBOLT

This famous, large, aging marina (Palmer Johnson) is geared to megayacht repair but is friendly to small craft and has full facilities and services, including daily newspaper, daily doughnuts delivered to your deck and an email line. Excellent restaurant 1/4 mile walk from yard. It is the most convenient waterfront to Savannah, which is well worth a taxi ride to see. Bahia Bleu Marina has been completely redone with new showers, docks, etc. It is on the west (Savannah) side of the river just beyond the high bridge when you are heading south. There is an excellent marine supply store (River Supply) within a half block walk. Visit Factor's Walk in Savannah, a restored warehouse district with stone streets and buildings. Motel available. (Crescendo, Freedom, Oengus, Narnia, Butter, Dory, Aquila)

MILE 584, GA - HERB RIVER

Watch the shoals at the entrance. Good anchorage inside in 13-19 feet MLW. Grasses on one side (and many birds), and very nice houses on the other. It is easy to see what the tide is doing, because the 10-foot watermarks on the dock pilings show, and every dock has a section of floating dock connected by a gangplank that goes up and down with the tides. Not protected from NW winds. (Le Point, Luv It, Rosalieann)

MILE 590, GA - ISLE OF HOPE

Attractive old houses, adequate anchorage among yacht club moorings. (Crescendo)

MILE 595, GA - MOON RIVER

Isn't very wide, and four feet deep inside. I grounded here in style, one day... (Crescendo)

MILE 602, GA - HELL GATE NAVIGATION NOTE

Watch the route (wrong side of the green mark) at the S end of Hell Gate and stay away from the shoals where the ICW goes through the Middle Marsh. It's essential to use the range to stay out of trouble. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 606, GA - QUEEN BESS CREEK

Just before Redbird Creek, on port side (stbd if northbound). Charted 5 foot depth at entrance at low tide, but we saw 8-9 minimum, and 10-20 once past the entrance at low tide. Tide is 8-9 feet here, so easy entry/exit for even deeper draft boats. The creek wraps around Bear Island, with the only trees visible in the area, so you can select anchorage to dodge winds. (Dory).

MILE 606, GA - REDBIRD CREEK

Upon entering Florida Passage, this spot has good holding in 12' - 20'. Go just beyond the first bend for increased protection. (Freedom)

MILE 608, GA - BUCKHEAD CREEK/CANE PATCH CREEK

Abundant space in deep (10' to 40') water with good holding. Tugs with barges "on the head" sometimes lay over by nosing the barges in just east of R "102". Pleasant and wooded in Cane Patch Creek adjacent to Pine Island. (Freedom)

MILE 613, GA - BIG TOM CREEK

SE of "FLG 105" go in one mile, past the bend, or in the first leg in 10-12 feet. Kilkenny Creek, which is just across the waterway, is much deeper. Reversing currents. Marsh. (Snowbird)

MILE 614, GA - KILKENNY CREEK

A much-used marina (fuel available) with a sizable shrimp fleet is approximately two miles upstream from R "106" and there's an anchorage just beyond. The shrimp fleet is based still farther upstream. (Freedom, Aquila)

MILE 619, GA - WALBURG CREEK

Anchor about 1.5 miles south of the St. Catherine's Sound entrance to the creek. A beautiful and quiet anchorage in 16' - 20' feet of water at MLW. Hard mud bottom with excellent holding. Good protection from NE, E, & SE winds by trees on St. Catherine's Island. Shrimp boats use creek to anchor at night so make sure you have an anchor light on and visible. Waited out a four day storm here very comfortably . (L'Etoile Du Nord)

MILE 630, GA - WAHOO RIVER

Go up about 1.5 miles and anchor among the trees in a pretty place with good protection and ample water depth. (Crescendo)

MILE 643, GA - CRESCENT RIVER

An attractive place west of the ICW, among the endless miles of marshes that look much like midwestern grain fields. Nice spot right up past the shrimp boats. Very friendly folks ashore there; you can buy shrimp in season. Strong currents, as usual for this area. In a strong NE blow, we found protection behind a stand of trees, which are scarce along the ICW in this region of marsh grasses. This location was about a half mile beyond the fishing village. (Crescendo, Oengus, Luv It)

MILE 644, GA - OLD TEAKETTLE CREEK NAVIGATION NOTE

Do not run straight from one red stake to the next at the north end of Old Teakettle Creek. Favor the southeast shore and steer in wide, sweeping curves to avoid the shoals. (Crescendo)

MILE 647, GA - NEW TEAKETTLE CREEK

With 15' to nearly 40' of water, here you can find good protection and good holding. Avoid the shoal off Mary Creek and proceed beyond the bend. Another favorite. Grasses all around and lots of bends in the creek so not much fetch. (Freedom, Luv It)

Mile 658, GA - ALTAMAHA RIVER

West of Dolbow Island holding was good, but there is little wind protection. Another boat there anchored right off LIttle St. Simon's Island at the entrance of a small creek. (Rosalieann)

MILE 666, GA - WALLY'S LEG

Not a great spot, but trees give some shelter from the NE. Bahamian moor suggested, as current reverses strongly. (Molly B)

MILE 666/673, GA - FREDERICA RIVER

A nice detour with good anchorages, this river is navigable from G "220" to just before the high bridge at St. Simons Island (G "241"). Fort Frederica National Memorial (1736-1749), is a "must see" place that can be reached by the small dinghy dock accessible only 2-3 hours each side of high tide. Fee area; no charge for anyone on boat when using one Golden Age Card. The stretch between the fort and the next turn, southbound, is especially scenic. Anchor here behind the stand of trees for protection from easterly storms. Good holding. Have stayed there a number of times on single anchor in 30-40 knot winds. When entering headed south as you leave the ICW junction, favor starboard side of the Frederica River. Watch for the grandaddy of all alligators, a permanent resident, at G "229". (Freedom, Epic VI, Thru The Years)

MILE 675, GA - FREDERICA RIVER

Marina just off the ICW offers a courtesy car for one hour, but biking or renting a car is better if you plan to stay for more than a day. The Village, St. Simon's Lighthouse, and Christ's Church are highlights. The marina complex is more like a mini-mall than a marina, with shops, restaurants, laundry, marine broker, etc. (Roma).

MILE 679, GA - BRUNSWICK

Brunswick, a working port, no longer permits anchoring (2001 and 2002). Brunswick Landing Marina charges 0.75/ft including electric, has ample slips, and is walking distance to restaurants, convenience store, Post Office, banks, etc. Groceries are a taxi ride ($4) away. The marina has a nice lounge with modem line, and FREE washers and dryers. (Dory)

MILE 684.5, GA - JEKYLL ISLAND

No anchorage nearby, but Jekyll Harbor Marina has fuel, a restaurant, a pool and bicycling on paths around the entire island. You can anchor and (for $8) use the dinghy dock, pool, bikes, etc.(Freedom, Aquila)

MILE 694, GA - DUPLIN RIVER

There are trees on the west bank and some farther away on the east bank. We went up a one mile past the dock. Be sure to go far enough south in the sound that you can look up the river. That way you will miss the bar on the port side as you enter. There is a power line a bit farther up with 36 feet clearance. (Aquila)

MILE 696, GA - BRICKHILL RIVER

The north entrance at R "40" is very deep. Watch the first bend and stay in the middle; the chart is accurate and the river navigable for the next nine miles, with wild horses and mansions you can visit ashore. Drop the hook just south of Hawkins Creek (20'-30' deep) adjacent to one of many backpacker campgrounds or anchor in 13 feet (low tide) about 1/4 mile north of landing at Plum Hill Plantation. This house built by Carnegie for one of his kids is a bit shabby now, but well worth a visit. Some say the south entrance is tricky for deep-draft boats, but others report it is straightforward, with 20+ feet of water. (Callinectes, Freedom)

MILE 697.5, GA - SHELLBINE CREEK

For a fast on and off the ICW and a pleasant evening surrounded by the savannahs of Georgia, this creek is perfect. You will see ICW traffic, but not get the noise and wake from it. Favor starboard as you enter the creek, and take the first fork to port to find 12 feet of water and good holding. (Luv It)

MILE 702, GA - DELAROCHE CREEK

SW of "R58", 0.3 mi from waterway near creek. (Snowbird)

MILE 706, GA - ST. MARYS

Located on the St. Marys River. Anchor off the marina and dinghy in. Nice little town. One cruiser liked the town, but not the marina. There is no place to buy groceries and no courtesy transportation. (Teelok, Narnia)

MILE 708, GA - KINGS BAY

Note that the mark colors reverse as you enter Kings Bay. Navigation around G "75" is confusing with all of the markers/ranges and poles in channel. To make matters worse, R "76" is a mini-nun and is difficult to see. Mariners tend to go aground South of G "75" unless they see R "76". Stay just outside the channel to avoid confrontations with nuclear submarines. (Freedom, Jule III)

MILE 710, GA - CUMBERLAND ISLAND

Now famous for the JFK Jr. wedding. Excellent anchorage just off the National Seashore wharf in about 11 feet MLW (go east and then north from R "40", favoring the eastern shore). Dinghy to pier and walk through the woods trails and across to the ocean. Gorgeous place to lay over for a day. Fee area, $4.00 each, free with Golden Age Card. Dock is supposed to be cleared by dark. (Crescendo, Freedom, Thru The Years)

MILE 716, FL - OLD FERNANDINA BEACH

Rough anchorage and limited water depth at municipal marina (be sure to stay on the outside of the floating dock) but an interesting, friendly old town that is worth a visit. This is bad in a NE wind. (Do NOT stay here under those circumstances, as it is uncomfortable and unsafe). You have to be at the north side docks, as there is very little water on the south side. It is first come, first served- no reservations. The old town is right there in walking distance, but a grocery store is about 2 miles away. There is a large anchorage area opposite the marina, and you can dinghy in and tie up at the marina for free, although they charge $1.25/person if you use their showers and/or bring in your trash. Tugs and other commercial traffic use this area, so be sure you are out of the channel and show a light. in late 2000, a tug hit and sank a sailboat that was anchored either in or very close to the channel without an anchor light. One on board got out with no injuries. The other was killed. (Crescendo, Rosalieann, Jule III)

MILE 729, FL - AMELIA RIVER NAVIGATION NOTE

Shifting shoals and frequent mark changes make the mouth of Amelia River a very treacherous place. Get local advice on VHF. The Amelia River/Nassau Sound now has another mark. Beyond the Red 46 that is on a post, there is a small red nun numbered "46A." It is closer to the bridge than # 46 and can apparently be moved as shoaling requires.(Crescendo, Aquila)

MILE 735, FL - FORT GEORGE RIVER

Anchor Bahamian-style in narrow but deep water along the southern shore between R "2" and G "5" (the channel is inactive but show a light). Dinghy over to Kingsley Plantation and its wildlife refuge for an interesting tour. Popular with fishermen, even beyond the marked end of the channel. If you sail directly from "3" to "5" at mid to low tide, you will probably go aground. Stay to the South side of the river. The National Park Service has built a new dock which has a 59 minute limit. We were told there is about 12 feet minimum depth on the inside of the floating dock. (Freedom, Molly B, Rosalieann, Aquila)

MILE 739, FL - JACKSONVILLE (ORTEGA RIVER)

This is a side trip up the St. Johns River. It's a protected anchorage and there is a West Marine close by. Motel available. (Teelok, Butter)

MILE 744, FL - N OF ATLANTIC BOULEVARD BRIDGE

Handy little anchorage in 20 feet MLW to E of small island with easy entrance. Bahamian moor will keep you in the center. (Crescendo)

MILE 740, FL - ST. JOHNS RIVER NAVIGATION NOTE

Watch carefully for big ships here. They move fast and the current squirts you out of the ICW suddenly into a blind curve of the commercial channel. (Crescendo)

MILE 765, FL - PINE ISLAND

Enter at G "25" and anchor in 10' - 12' in good holding. Attractive and convenient anchorage in the bight with some wind protection from trees. Narrow sections call for two anchors. (Crescendo, Freedom)

MILE 778, FL - ST. AUGUSTINE

Be careful near the inlet, where currents are strong, and be sure to pass R "60" on the inlet side of the channel. The town is hospitable, touristy and plenty of fun with many restaurants and lots to see (especially the Lightner Museum and the Castillo de San Marcos) within walking distance of the waterfront. Exposed anchorage on either side of the Bridge of Lions. There seem to be more anchoring problems on the North side of the Bridge of Lions than the South side where holding appears to be better. In moderate north winds on the north side of the bridge, boats circle their anchors wildly on the ebb tide. Leave plenty of room. Municipal marina easily accommodated boats with 5-6 foot drafts (2001) and the 1999 hurricane-damaged docks have been rebuilt. You can have dinghy access to the marina from the anchorage for $6 per day. Motel available. (Crescendo, Freedom, Narnia, Grey Panther, Mielle, Jule III, Nina, Butter)

Mile 785.2, FL - MATANZAS RIVER

Anchor just south of marker "38" in bight of deep water. Good if wind is accross the current. (Nina)

MILE 792, FL - MATANZAS RIVER NAVIGATION NOTE

Probably the trickiest place on the Waterway, where strong currents shift the channel faster than the Coast Guard can move the markers. Get local advice from St. Augustine Sea Tow on VHF; just ask "How is Matanzas?" and they'll brief you. (Crescendo)
NAVIGATION NOTE 2002 - All Florida inlets (Matanzas, Ponce) were well marked with can buoys. We called TOWBOAT/US for updates beforehand. (Spice)

MILE 796, FL - MARINELAND

Sad to say, Florida's original "Lookit the fish" attraction is closed, along with its marina. (Mielle)

MILE 809, FL - OLD CEMENT PLANT

Turn west between G11 and G13. A great spot, especially in bad weather, but do not block the Sea Ray docks. No less than 8 ft depth all the way in at low water. Not particularly beauteous but we saw herons and other shore birds . (Almada, Luv It)

MILE 829, FL - DAYTONA BEACH

There's a new restaurant at Halifax Harbor, and a West Marine store. Seven Seas Marina has a little restaurant where cruisers gather for breakfast and lunch, but beware the cross currents there. Anchorage on either side of the old (now gone) Seabreeze bridge. One more bridge is permanently open, so there are now only 2 bridges in Daytona Beach, not 4. You can ride the local buses for 10 cents on Sundays. Motel available. Walk 2-3 blocks North From Halifax Harbor for Stavros, a great Greek pizza restaurant. (Crescendo, Freedom, Rosalieann, Epic VI, Butter, Dory)

MILE 829-830, FL - DAYTONA BEACH

Several anchorages are here. Dinghies can land at a park on the west shore just north of Memorial bridge, at the boat ramp just south of Daytona Boatworks, or at the ramp under the east side of the new Seabreeze bridge After turning west at daymark #44, travel mid way to the west shore and then north between Markers #40 and #42 off the little park adjacent to Waste Treatment Plant (no smell). The location provides good holding and is comfortably out of the channel. (Epic VI, Nina)
NAVIGATION NOTE 2002: we saw 7 feet of water in the ICW near the Ponce inlet. (Spice)

MILE 842.2, ROCKHOUSE CREEK

Turn east between R10 and R12 and find sandy beaches (to take your dog ashore) and 10-14 feet of water. There is very little boat traffic here. It is part of the Ponce de Leon Inlet, which is too shallow for deep draft boats. We "sniffed" out the entrance and found plenty of water (4 1/2 foot draft) at the northern end of the entrance. The anchorage was superb! Near USCG station, and they indicated that it was not uncommon to inspect boats anchored here. (Luv It, Cavalier, Thru The Years)

MILE 846, FL - NEW SMYRNA (SHEEPSHEAD CUT)

Good anchorage behind the island and the town is a short row away. Since the 1997 routing of the ICW through Sheepshead Cut, there's limited space (perhaps 5-10 boats) on either side of the channel, and the restricted space calls for double anchors to limit swing. Coming out of the Haulover Canal headed south, there are a couple of oil tanks on the far shore you can use as an informal range to keep from going aground. (Freedom, Teelok, Windchime, Rosalieann)

MILE 862, FL - MOSQUITO LAGOON

Anchor east of Green #19 in charted 7'. Calm nights only! (Windchime)

MILE 870, FL - HAULOVER CANAL

NAVIGATION NOTE JULY 2002 - we saw 7 feet of water in the ICW just west of the Haulover canal near G"1" in the Indian River Lagoon. Dredging operations are underway there and to the east of the canal right now (Spice)

MILE 878, FL - TITUSVILLE

Anchor between G "1" and the swing bridge in settled weather, or go south of the bridge on the eastern side near the causeway if it's blowing from the north. It is a good walk to get to any restaurants from the municipal marina. They have an internet connection outside, several washers and three dryers, and a free car ride at 8:30 to ACE hardware in the morning if you sign up before 8:15. Some people anchor outside the marina entrance. (Freedom, Rosalieann)

MILE 878/910, FL - TITUSVILLE TO MELBOURNE

You can anchor in the lee of the causeways at all the high bridges in event of heavy weather. Check charts for water depths. (Freedom)

MILE 885, FL - ADDISON POINT

Either side of bridge to east of channel. Have watched shuttle launches from here. The land barrier road to the bridge provides good protection from strong NW-NE winds when you anchor on the south side of it. You can carry 5 to 6 ft almost up to the road. (Windchime, Epic VI)

MILE 897, FL - COCOA

Anchor off the channel and as close in as is comfortable. There is a terrific, old-time hardware store in Cocoa. (Teelok)

MILE 903, FL - MELBOURNE

You can anchor almost anywhere out of the channel along the river in the Melbourne area and north. (Rosalieann)

MILE 914, FL - BANANA RIVER (THE DRAGON)

Go east to Dragon Point just before the Eau Gallie Causeway (SR 518) to a very protected anchorage in the Banana River. Anchor on the west side of the channel either at the mouth (closer to the stores) or by the bridge (closer to the marina) in 10' to 18' depths. One experienced cruiser had considerable difficulty anchoring on the Western side of the Banana River about 100 feet North of the Southern tip of Merritt Island; farther North and/or East did not pose any problems. You can also anchor above the Mathis bridge, where it is less crowded. Pleasant and cooperative bridge tender. Indian Harbor Marina has a dinghy ramp and several shopping malls are about one mile away. A preferred, free dinghy landing is on the south side of the causeway of the bridge near the east end.  Walk east to Publix and  hardware store.  Or land at Conchy Joe's restaurant at the West end of the bridge, north side.  They have a nice dock and welcome cruisers to use it whether dining or not.  There is a post office and West Marine nearby. (Freedom, Teelok, Jule III, Thru The Years, Nina)
NAVIGATION NOTE 2002: The great green Dragon is no more. It collapsed into the water this summer. (Crescendo)

MILE 945, FL - INDIAN RIVER

Jones Fruit Dock is $10/night... no electric, heads, or showers but lots of just-picked oranges and grapefruit to buy (cheap). Depth at the dock is barely 6'. Exposed nails make lying alongside hazardous. (Narnia, Sterling Lady)

MILE 952, FL - VERO BEACH

No anchoring, but the mooring prices are reasonable. They will raft boats up when full. Many cruisers call this place "Tar Pit Key" or "Velcro Beach" because so many come in for a day or two and wind up staying for weeks. They meet at the large laundry facility and on the free shuttle busses that go everywhere in town from the marina every hour 8-5 weekdays. Cruisers also dinghy to the Riverside restaurant/bar at the Sound edge of the mooring field for daily happy hours; the restaurant halts service for a few minutes each evening for sunset. Other restaurants are within dinghy range across the river and via shuttle bus. The marina and town people are very cruiser-friendly. Ignore rumors that they have a 5 day limit -- they just want you to settle up every five days. (Teelok, Dory)

MILE 965, FL - FORT PIERCE

Anchored just past the bridge of Harbortown Marina (not protected from easterlies) Every time the bridge opens it is noisy but there are almost no openings at night. Difficult to set an anchor. The chart shows 8 feet but it is shoaled up by the bridge. The shoal goes down almost to the red marker and there are other lumps. Anchoring closer to shore may be less current. (Rosalieann)

MILE 966, FL - FABER COVE

Follow the marked channel to the east. It is just south of the Fort Pierce inlet. Anchor either just past buoy #7 or go all the way into the cove, depending on the weather. (Almada)

MILE 987, FL - STUART

Nice spot to spend a couple days. A park and stores are close by the anchorage. The anchoring area has been reduced because an extensive mooring field has been placed but $6 per night includes use of the dinghy dock, free pumpout and good showers. A laundromat, market, restaurants and other facilities are ashore.(Teelok, Almada)

Florida ICW continues after Okeechobee Waterway listings

=========================================

OKEECHOBEE  WATERWAY
 
Begins with St. Lucie River at Mile 987 and continues across Lake Okeechobee to the west coast of Florida. Sailboats remember--49 foot lift bridge at Port Mayaca.  Indiantown Marina can get you under with up to about 52 foot mast. Charge was $100 in 2001.  Call ahead. Phone number listed in Waterway Guide. (Thru The Years)
 
 
Mile 15 - St. Lucie Lock 

Corps of Engineers Campground with about 7 slips just west of lock.  Over 5 foot depth.  Bath house facilities with hot showers. Very nice.  $16 /nite ($8 with Golden Age Card) including elec. and water.  Supposedly limited to about 35 ft.or less.  We stayed there in 1990 with a 40 ft boat along with others of that size.  (Thru The Years)
 
Mile 78 - Moore Haven Town Dock 

Just west of lock and bridges. Rough facilities, but cheap ($0.50/ft). Inexpensive restaurant with good food nearby.  Mayor had gone home with only key to bathrooms the night we were there. (Thru The Years)
 
Mile 122 - Franklin Lock 

Corps of Engineers campground with slips just east of lock.  Over 5 foot depth.  Bath house facilities with hot showers. Very nice. $16/nite ($8 with Golden Age Card) including elec. and water. (Thru The Years)

Mile 147 - Glover Bight

============================================

Florida ICW continued:

MILE 992, FL - PECK'S LAKE

Good spot to dingy ashore, located just east of ICW. The beach is just a short walk over the dunes. Turn east just south of #19 and steer 60 degrees into deep water. The anchorage area is bigger than the charts indicate. (Teelok, Windchime)

MILE 1014, FL - NORTH PALM BEACH (N. END OF LAKE WORTH)

This is a popular place but there is plenty of room. A dinghy landing is at the small bridge north of the anchorage and stores are close by, including a West Marine. (Teelok, Windchime). NOTE: The N. Palm Beach (N.Lake Worth) anchorage restriction is not apparently being enforced. I was there in Dec. and March for three days each time and did not register or pay, or see anyone who did. This is a great spot. There is now a cable to lock your dinghy to at the landing by the bridge, put there so you do not have to lock to the private fence. (Mielle)

MILE 1020, FL - LAKE WORTH INLET

Many good anchorages off Palm Beach western shore. (Windchime)

MILE 1031, FL - LANTANA

Anchor SW of bridge. Good overnight anchorage. (Windchime)

MILE 1031, FL - OCEAN AVENUE

New bridge almost completed 2001. (Rosalieann)

MILE 1048, FL - LAKE BOCA RATON

Anchor in the north end where there is more water. (Teelok)

MILE1064, FL - FT. LAUDERDALE, LAS OLAS BRIDGE

Bridge does not open on demand any more. SW side of bridge has moorings provided by city at $10 per night. City docks on NE side of bridge are 36 cents per foot off season, including water and electricity. There is a dinghy dock servicing the moorings to the SW of the Las Olas Bridge. The Municipal docks to the NE of the bridge have been completely renovated, and now offer full facilities (except fuel) including showers, laundry, pump-out, etc. Fuel is available 2 miles south at the 17th Street Causeway Bridge - Bahia Mar, Pier 66, and Lauderdale Marinas. Overnight anchorage is available at Lake Sylvia, about 1 mi. South of Las Olas. West Marine offers a free shuttle to their store, located at US1 and S.R. 84. Shopping, with bus service, is located within 2 miles west on Las Olas. (Windchime, Southbound, Rosalieann)

MILE 1070, FL - HOLLYWOOD

We moved into the cut and found plenty of water and plenty of protection. (Teelok)

MILE 1089, FL - BISCAYNE BAY (MIAMI), WATSON PARK

Just south of the Venetian Causeway Bridge, turn east and travel through 7-foot water, skirting Watson Park, to anchor near Palm Island, between Miami and Miami Beach. This location has a good view from every azimuth, and is very entertaining. Cruise ships (Love Boat type) are 400 yards away, separated from the anchorage only by a low, narrow causeway. Seaplanes land in Government Cut, CG helicopters check on incoming vessels; we can see only the tops of tugs and serious fishing boats coming and going. By dinghy, or by moving your major vessel closer into a more exposed anchorage, there is access to a huge Publix 3.5 miles away, through a public park NW of Belle Isle. South Beach is only a dinghy ride and a short hike away. (Luv It)

MILE 1089, FL - BISCAYNE BAY (MIAMI)

The dinghy landing at the launching ramp/police dock east of Belle Isle is no longer available, thanks to abuses by liveaboards or cruisers.  South of the fixed bridge there is a bulkhead at the end of Lincoln Rd where dinghies are fastened to rings on the outside of the concrete.  If you tie up to the guard rail above it, you will interfere with city mowers and they may cast you off! (Nina)

MILE 1091, FL - MIAMI MARINE STADIUM

Channel on north side of Rickenbacker bridge leads to anchorage. Go past marina on right and then go right into Marine Stadium waters. Anchor between small island and stadium. May be crowded on weekends. One cruiser reports that the PWCs stop running around at dark, and the "No Trespassing" signs are not enforced. Nothing of any consequence here and several miles to stores. Buses may be available out on the causeway. (Windchime, Luv It, Rosalieann)

MILE 1096, FL - HURRICANE HARBOR

Use Hurricane Harbor if you'd like to be well protected (from 350 degrees) and surrounded by gorgeous homes. Don't come if you need groceries, fuel, or trips ashore. After avoiding the huge shoaled area to the west of the entrance, enter near the red "2" (25.41.339N, 080.10.610W) where there is 8 feet of water, and you'll find 12 feet inside the anchorage. The bottom is gray sticky gumbo mud, so let your anchor settle a bit before you tug.(Luv It)

Mile 1096, FL - KEY BISCAYNE, NO NAME HARBOR

During weekends this harbor fills up to the point where there is little or no room to anchor and there is now a anchoring fee. The alternative is to go north 1 mile, rounding Southwest Point and just past Hurricane Harbor and anchor in 8 to 12 ft of water. (Epic VI)

Mile 1130 - BARNES SOUND (FLORIDA BAY SIDE)

Northeastern Shore of Barnes Sound (Key Largo) gives protection from easterly winds with soft mud/sand bottom. (Summer Wind)

Mile 1135 - BLACKWATER SOUND (FLORIDA BAY SIDE)

Key Largo. Good protection but is especially good in the Sexton Cove area for northeast winds and the Dusenberry Creek area for southwest winds. (Summer Wind)

MILE 1140, FL - TARPON BASIN (FLORIDA BAY SIDE)

One of my favorites in a blow. Anchor north of #48A. Not deep and a grassy bottom but good holding once anchor is set. Have ridden out several winter fronts there. Large marina nearby. "We went past R48A and then turned NW and anchored. Good all round protection. No problem with dragging." (Crescendo, Windchime, Aquila)

About MILE 1140, FL - PENNEKAMP STATE PARK (OCEAN SIDE)

We draw 4 1/2 feet so were able to get into Largo Sound, John Pennekamp State Park. There is a long channel in, and at G 19 you turn down a channel to port to get to park headquarters (look for the grey building, there is no direction sign.) There is gas and a free pump out. Slips are $25 per night, mooring balls in the Sound are $15. It is a very nice place with visitor center, aquarium, and beach. Within the beach/swim area a reconstructed 16-17th century wreck with anchor, cannons, etc. A great place to snorkel, especially for the novice. Also lots of fish around the wreck. There are full- and half-day commercial dive boats, sight seeing boats, etc. from park headquarters. (Aquila)

MILE 1146, FL - BUTTERNUT KEY (FLORIDA BAY SIDE)

This is a fine spot for birdwatching while at anchor. Choose either side of the key, according to wind direction. Some cruisers report baby sharks here, and we have seen many dolphins in the area. (Crescendo)

MILE 1145, FL - RODRIGUEZ KEY (OCEAN SIDE)

A good spot to spend the night as long as the seas are down or are coming from a favorable direction. May be hard to set an anchor on the rocky bottom. Anchor N or S of island while waiting for weather to cross to Bahamas and ride with the Stream from here. (Teelok, Windchime, Rosalieann)

MILE 1160, FL - ISLAMORADA

We went past R84 and turned SE toward the town. We were able to get in relatively close. We were told that Lorelei's Restaurant will let you use their dock if you have a meal, coffee, etc. We had NE winds and were nice and comfortable. (Aquila)

MILE 1164, FL - LIGNUMVITAE KEY

Anchor near NW shore of key. Anchoring in the grass beds is forbidden. Moorings are provided.  Visit the park for a good nature tour. (Windchime, Nina)

MILE 1166-67, FL - MATECUMBE BIGHT

Very similar to Islamorada in holding, wind protection, etc. After going through Bowles Cut we cut south then SE to miss Peterson Key Bank. We were able to get in nice and close to shore. (Aquila)

MILE 1167 FL - LONG KEY BIGHT (OCEAN SIDE)

This is a well documented anchorage (SW of Channel 5 bridge) which we found untenable due to the proliferation of lobster pots. (Jule III)

MILE 1170, FL - CHANNEL FIVE

Anchor SW of bridge close to shore for protection from north wind. (Windchime)

MILE 1195 FL - BOOT KEY/MARATHON

It's crowded, but a good spot to spend some time. The only other drawback seems to be the amount of "unusual things" that appear on the bottom of the boat; you may want to scrape the bottom before leaving. There is a proposal to install moorings and possibly eliminate anchoring or leave a much reduced area for anchoring. The town and county are battling for jurisdiction and there is some local opposition. A mobile pumpout boat is there but not operating full time, if at all. When the harbor is full or you don't want to deal with the crowd, anchorages South of Fl G "1" are OK for prevailing Easterly (N-SE) and holding appears to be good(Teelok, Mielle, Jule III)

MILE 1195 FL - BOOT KEY HARBOR

In January 2002, they still had not implemented collection of fees, but some moorings are there for the taking.  You still pay to land at the marina, which is now called City of Marathon Marina, once Pat and Kelly's.  There is still room to anchor.  The free dinghy landing on a vacant lot near the Publix supermarket is no longer available, as the lot has been built on. The pumpout boat is as yet unreliable. (Nina)

MILE 1215 FL RAMROD KEY (OCEAN SIDE)

A quick anchorage can be found South of Summerland and Ramrod Keys SE of R "6". It is adequate for moderate conditions except for Southerly winds. Better protection can be found in Newfound Harbor but shoaling can limit access for vessels with drafts much above 5 feet. (Jule III)

MILE --- FL - KEY WEST

Many municipal moorings have been installed on the Florida Bay side north of Garrison Bight, east of Fleming Key. There is less current there than Key West Harbour, but it is exposed to the north. (Mielle)

KEY WEST MOORING FIELD: There are NO facilities in Garrison Bight - only about 2 showers, no pump out, no parking, and no dinghy dock. Also there is an overhead power line, so we can't get the big boat in there. A slip is $1200/month for long term if you could get in there. The mooring field is not protected from the north, but there isn't any good place to anchor that IS protected from the north. There is no charge for the mooring because it is administered out of Garrison Bight and they have nobody to collect. To get into town, you have to go through the cut into Key West Bight. This can take up to 1/2 hour if you have a little dinghy, depending on the current through the cut. The dinghy dock is by the old turtle kraals - $4/day, $20/week and $60/month. People anchor all over the place in Key West. A lot are west of Fleming Key and around the old Tank Island (now called Sunset Key because it is no longer Navy and that sounds better than Tank Island). There is a water taxi. (Rosalieann)

2002 STATUS: The mooring field east of Fleming Key is in business, at $12/ night, if you call them and if they come out to collect.  You can anchor just north of the moorings for free, with the same long dinghy ride to town. (Nina)

20 MILES WEST OF KEY WEST - MARQUESAS KEY

Convenient anchorage on the way to the Dry Tortugas. As everywhere in the reefs, lobster pots discourage an overnight passage to the Dry Tortugas. The Western side of the Marquesas provides shelter from the prevailing Easterlies but it is quite shallow in places. Read the water! The charts are not accurate relative to the shoaling. Beach is OK. Current is 2+ knots with a North/South set. (Jule III)

70 MILES WEST OF KEY WEST - GARDEN KEY, DRY TORTUGAS

Garden Key is the official anchorage for the Dry Tortugas National Park. Anchorage is on the SW side of Fort Jefferson. The NE channel has filled in so there is no current in the anchorage, which can be quite crowded. Adequate depth for any draft. Certainly worth the trip! You can trade beer and cola for lobster from the commercial watermen. Good show by the rangers at the fort. Be warned that there are no provisions (including fresh water) in the Dry Tortugas. No trash cans either. Satellite phone is $16 per minute. Cellular phones do not work. SSB and/or satellite is a plus. (Jule III)

(25-19 N, 81-08 W), FL - LITTLE SHARK RIVER

Enter and anchor N of red #4. If adventurous, follow Little Shark River NE to Shark River and on to Tarpon Bay. Six foot draft OK with favorable tide. In winter you won't want to leave. In summer you donate blood! (Windchime)

(25-48 N, 81-28 W), FL - EVERGLADES CITY

Anchor NW of green #7 in Russell Bay, Everglades National Park. Red Mangroves 60 feet high surround you. This remote anchorage WON'T be crowded! Could continue on in to Everglades City (Windchime, Luv It)

(25-58 N, 81-46 W), FL - MARCO ISLAND TO THOUSAND ISLANDS

Depth of channel after leaving Marco Island area is 4-6 foot, at one point the chart declares it 3 ft. Using the tides & local knowledge helps. There are two bridges with a 55 ft. clearance. The charts I used were freebies from Sea Tow, just called "Naples to the Everglades." At the end of this channel is Goodland FL. They have a good size marina with all the services including lift service etc.

Marco used to be a rough entrance several years ago. They have removed an island which one had to navigate around with very swift water. Today it is a straight shot and I made it in with no problem and was amazed at the changes for the better. (Nutmeg)

(25-58 N, 81-46 W), FL - MARCO ISLAND

Anchor in S end of Factory Bay. One cruiser says that the Marco Island Winn-Dixie store has a dinghy dock: "One can dinghy in and walk to the stores." Bikers will really enjoy this area. Several good marinas in the area. There is a dinghy dock at Marco Island Marina, to the right of the fuel dock, for $5/ day.  The entrance to the anchorage is less than 5.7 ft at low water. (Windchime, Luv It, Nutmeg, Nina)

(26-05 N, 81-48 W), FL - NAPLES TO MARCO ISLAND

This channel is 4.5 to 6 feet throughout. There are no bridges and it's all a preserved wildlife area. People anchor out all over the place within the preserve. (Nutmeg)

(26-05 N, 81-48 W), FL - NAPLES

Anchor NW of red #12 among beautiful homes. A favorite of ours. (Windchime)

MILE 147, FL(OKEECHOBEE CANAL) - GLOVER BIGHT

Just 2.5 miles E of MILE ZERO, FL(W) near Cape Coral. This would be a great place to hang out in high winds. Turn at R #92, follow marks in. The bottom yanked our anchor at first try. Protection from waves 360 degrees, from wind all but SW. Tarpon Point Marina is nearby. (Luv It)

MILE ZERO, FL(W) - FORT MYERS BEACH ANCHORAGE

The anchorage is crowded and busy with small boats on weekends, but not always "rude." There is the rare benefit of a free dinghy landing right behind a supermarket! Take the dinghy east through the anchorage and turn right into the last canal on the right (at red mark 4). Go to the end of the canal and tie up to a mangrove tree. You can walk one block to the beach from there as well. From the dinghy landing walk left on the main street to the library, where there is free internet access. (Windchime, Mielle, Nina)

MILE 5, FL(W) - SANIBEL ISLAND

"Ding" Darling National Wildlife Area. Anchor S of Red #16 or #18 and tuck in close to the island in 6 feet of water for protection from S to W winds. Dinghy to the wildlife refuge, through a cut into Tarpon Bay. Thousands of birds and other wildlife live here. There is a gift shop, and you can rent bicycles for $7/day. (Windchime, Luv It)

MILE 22, FL(W) - USEPPA ISLAND

Anchor E of ICW between 60 and 61. (Windchime)

MILE 24, FL(W) - PELICAN BAY

Tricky to get into but worth it when there, with incredible beauty and 360-degree protection. Go SW from #72 toward the bay and hold 75% to starboard so that you skirt the island about 100 feet offshore until you reach the anchorage off the Cayo Costa State Park dock, thus avoiding a very large shoal on the south side of the bay. Popular. Five-foot draft OK with fair tide. A pocket of somewhat deeper water is beyond the dock. Dinghy to shore and take a tram for the one-mile ride to the Gulf shore where shelling is good. The island may only be reached by boat, so it is not crowded. Or dinghy 2.5 miles south and find the "love tunnel" path to the Gulf by entering through Murdock Bayou. Be prepared to walk your dinghy at several places, including through the tunnel under a mangrove bower. Your reward will be in having a part of the island to yourselves and GREAT shelling. (Windchime, Luv It)

MILE 37, FL(W) - CAPE HAZE

A beautiful residential lagoon east of the ICW. Anchor anywhere in the lagoon. (Windchime)

MILE 43, FL(W) - ENGLEWOOD BEACH

When S of bridge, turn SW and follow charted water to the park area. Check www.markwebhost.com/IRIE for excellent detail. (Windchime)

MILE 58, FL(W) - VENICE

S of R #14 is a free City Dock in Higel Park. Good for four or five boats. Walk to town and restaurants. (Windchime)

MILE 85, FL(W) - LONG BEACH

A favorite. Go W from G #39 and then S to anchorage off the restaurants. (Windchime)

MILE 95, FL(W) - MANATEE RIVER

Anchor behind Desoto Point. We rode out the "Storm of the Century" here. (Windchime)

MILE ---, FL(W) - ST. PETERSBURG

Just a few miles from the ICW, there is a nice anchorage right downtown in front of the Vinoy Hotel ("North Yacht Basin" on the chart) . A one-week limit is reportedly enforced. You can land a dink on a little beach in the SE corner of the anchorage. (Mielle)

MILE 116, FL(W) - GULFPORT

Follow the marked channel. Anchor off the City fishing pier. (Windchime)

MILE 133, FL(W) - CLEARWATER

Anchor E of Red #8 along the shore. Good place to await good weather for crossing to Apalachicola. (Windchime)

---- FL(W) - TARPON SPRINGS AREA

The channel going up to Tarpon Springs can be tricky to get into in the dark. Beware -- don't try it -- I'd been there a couple of time and thought I knew it well enough, only to sit high and dry overnight until the tide came up. In the daytime follow the charts up the river; there is plenty of water if one stays in the channel and it's well marked. There is an anchorage off on the left that has good water and a park but it's far from town. I've always gone up into the town and used a marina for a night. Great place to visit, can walk to the stores and many restaurants, mostly Greek foods. (Nutmeg)

MILE150, FL(W) - ANCLOTE KEY

Anchor E of key. Another good waiting spot to cross (but not in a blow). (Windchime)

MILE 150, FL(W) - NAVIGATION NOTE

There is no ICW from Anclote to Carabelle. You have a choice of a 130-mile offshore trip or a series of shallow anchorages along the "Big Bend." I always get into trouble in the Big Bend so I avoid it. (Windchime)

---- FL(W) - GULF HARBORS

About 3 miles N of Anclote River Entrance. Controlling depth of about 5 feet ends at a protected basin with a good restaurant. Either anchor or dock and eat at the restaurant. (Duette)

---- FL(W) - CRYSTAL RIVER

45 miles N of Anclote River. Controlling depth is 4 feet at low tide just before the entrance to the channel. Area S of #23 is protected and good holding if you don't anchor in the shells too close to Shell Island. Follow the markers up river to Kings Bay. Well protected, poor holding. (Duette)

---- FL(W) - WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER

50 miles N of Anclote River; good water all the way in. Watch markers closely. Commercial traffic restricts anchoring due to wakes until you reach the residential and manatee area 2 miles up the river. Tie up to the trees on the south bank. (Duette)

---- FL(W) - CEDAR KEY

60 miles N of Anclote River. Good holding ground, protection from N only. Anchor 300 yards E of the city dock just off the boat ramp. DO NOT TIE UP TO THE CITY DOCK. Strong currents and rough water with any opposing winds. (Duette)

---- FL(W) - STEINHATCHEE RIVER

90 miles N of Anclote River. Deep water all the way in; anchor on south side of river channel. (Duette)

---- FL(W) - CARABELLE, DOG ISLAND

Beginning of the Gulf ICW. Anchor N of western tip of island.

MILE 352, FL(W) - APALACHICOLA

Anchor E of #4 and #6. (Windchime)

MILE 345, FL(W) - SAUL CREEK

A favorite gunkhole and hurricane hole. Turn NE into Saul Creek then NW at first fork. Cross 50 foot deep water and anchor in eight feet. Wildlife! (Windchime)

MILE 291, FL(W) - PANAMA CITY

(1) SW from G #19 into Smack Bayou. Storm hole and popular. (2) NE from G #17 into Massalina Bayou through drawbridge. Moderate holding but protected. (3) North shore of Shell Island. Popular. (Windchime)