Heads Up – Here are some recent waterway changes! Updated February 8, 2010 (Look for NEW) Anchorages Guide, 14^th edition, changes Chapter 2, page 9, mile 40.8 (5): Capt. Mario Carrara reports that Hop-O-Nose Marina no longer sells fuel. He also reports that the fee for stepping masts is $4/ft and that the ships store had a very limited inventory. (4) Capt. Carrara also reports that Riverview Marine Services mast fee is $3/ft. (November 25, 2009) Chapter 4, page 22, mile 13.0. Capt. Mario Carrara reports that Havre de Grace now has a full jetty and a floating dock for dinghy access in front of the old lighthouse. (November 25, 2009) Chapter 4, page 33, mile 152.6 Jackson Creek. John Cummings aboard the M/V Duetto reports: “don’t get near G”5”, shoal building out. Hug R”10” because shoal on south side growing toward channel. (November 16, 2009) Chapter 6, page 53, mile 311.0, Pipeline Canal. John Cunnings aboard M/V Duetto reports that this anchorage is now 2/3 full of private moorings. (November 16, 2009). Chapter 10, page 91, mile 164.1, Las Olas Municipal Marina. The fee for landing a dinghy at the marina is now $15/day, noon to noon. (December 8, 2009) Chapter 4, page 27, mile 59.6, Galesville. Moorings are no longer $15/day. Hartge Yacht Yard requests that you call for rate: 443-607-6306. (December 16, 2009) Chicago to Mobile Guide, 4^th edition, error on page 50 Kidd River City Fuel Dock at Mile 51.9 on the Mississippi River is shown as supplying gas and diesel. This is incorrect. Kidd has diesel only. The error was corrected in the 5^th edition. We apologize for this error. (September 25, 2009) Cruising The Gulf Coast, 6^th Edition, change The Fleming Canal Store, listed on page 33 at Mile 14.9, has closed. (November 25, 2009) Double Bayou, listed on page 20. Test should read “East and West Forks”, not legs. In addition, you should turn right into the “East Fork”, not the “West Leg”. (November 26, 2009) Erie Canal, 48 hour time limit at docks. The New York Canal Corporation has begun enforcing the 48 hour maximum time limit on all corporation docks, including Waterford. Vessels are no longer permitted to stay beyond 48 hours and pay a $10/night fee. Several boaters have been ticketed in the past two weeks. Refer to the Canal Corporation website for details. (September 6, 2009) Erie Canal, Mile 37.3, Amsterdam The Dockmaster at Riverlink Park, Bob Gallup, also manages the Riverlink Park Café. The café has a new phone number….518-843-5300. Bob’s cell phone is 518-857-1961. WiFi is also available. (August 8, 2009) Rideau Canal, Smith Falls, Victoria Park Campground & Dock Page 34 of the Skipper Bob Rideau & Richelieu Guide, 11^th ed 2009 states that the Victoria Park Campground & Dock accepts reservations. This is not correct. Transient dockage is on a first come basis. (August 2, 2009) Rideau Canal, Village of Westport, Westport Harbour Refer to the text on page 32 of the 11^th ed, 2009 Rideau & Richelieu Guide. We have been informed by Westport Harbour that they now offer 1000 feet of dockage, 30 amp electric, water and Wi-Fi. The Harbour Master may be reached on VHF Channel 68 or by calling 613-273-8621. (August 3, 2009) Lake Champlain, Knight Point State Park Page 65 of the Skipper Bob Rideau & Richelieu Guide, 11^th ed 2009 contains this sentence. “ An interesting attraction is the performance of the Royal Lipizzan Stallions on North Hero Island. Call Knight Point State Park (802-372-8389) for details”. This performance has not taken place in several years and the reference should have been deleted. We apologize for the error and any inconvenience this may have caused. (August 2, 2009) Erie Canal, Baldwinsville, free dock Many thanks to Seredipity for this report. See page 33 of the 12^th edition of the NY Canals Guide for coverage of Baldwinsville. Much to our surprise when we arrived in Baldwinsville we found that the free dock has power! There are 13 power posts installed along the wall and floating dock. Those along the floating dock have two 30amp outlets and along the wall they each have 2 50amp and one 30 amp each. All have one 15 amp also. The posts are set up for water, but it is not installed yet. We also were treated to a concert from the amphitheater last evening. Mitch and Carole with Annie Serendipity (August 6, 2009) Note: Bob Williamson on Legrace reports that there is a $5/night fee For 20/30 amp and a $10/night fee for 50 amp. (August 12, 2009) Erie Canal, Utica, free dock Many thanks to Fet-Esch for this correction. We apologize for the error in the New York Canals Guide. We just stopped at Utica (Mile 99.7). Says it is Utica Marina FREE DOCK.  Dock is $1.00 per foot including water & electric. They say it's been like this for 2 years. It's on Page 25 of the 12th edition dated 2009. John Esch Fet-Esch (August 6, 2009) NJICW, Mile 45.0, Long Beach Shoaling to a depth of 2 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of New Jersey Intracoastal Waterway Junction Light LB. Chart 12316. (December 17, 2008) NJICW, Mile 60.0, shoaling Shoaling to less than 3.0 feet has been reported in the vicinity of NJ ICW Daybeacon 160. If you have on site knowledge please send a report to tstehle@skipperbob.net. Chart: 12316. (August 30, 2009) NJICW, Mile 83.0 (approx.), shoaling Shoaling to a depth of less than 3.0ft MLW has been reported in the vicinity of NJICW Daybeacon 270. Use caution. Chart: 12316 (June 17, 2009) C & D Canal, Chesapeake City, shoaling The entrance to the basin at Chesapeake City has shoaled at the center once again. Depths of less than 6 feet have been reported 2 hours prior to high tide. The engineer at the Corps of Engineers office in Chesapeake City stated that deeper water can be found on the east and west sides of the entrance. (June 7, 2009) Chesapeake Bay, Bohemia River, Veazey Cove Veazey Cove is listed as a anchorage in the Anchorages along the ICW Guide (13^th edition). We have received a report that this cove has shoaled to a depth of less than 3 feet at low tide and the water contains a great deal of vegetation. As a result this cove is no longer recommended. (October 9, 2008) Note: Not listed in the 14^th edition. Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Inside Passage Shoaling to a depth of 2 feet MLW has been reported between Virginia Inside Passage Light 180 and Great Machipongo Inlet North Channel Junction Light NC. Use extreme caution when transiting the area. Chart: 12210. (February 17, 2009) ICW, Mile 2.8, Jordan Bridge Delete the text in the anchorages book that pertains to this bridge. The bridge has been taken out of service and the lift span removed. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 45.1, Long Point Ran aground(5' 7" draft) at the western side of the channel, just 100 yards south of QR 15ft 3M "116" (4.5 SM north of Coinjock). Towboat said we were third one this season. (October 30, 2009) Frank Coleman ICW, Mile 82.0, Alligator River There has been a report of shoaling in the vicinity of Alligator River Light 8, mile 82 of the AICW. The shoaling extends into the channel approximately 40 feet and has a reported depth of 4 feet. Chart 11553. (July 29, 2009) ICW, Mile 113.9, Fairfield Canal Lynn Langlois aboard the s/v Three Sheets reports that on December 16, 2008 they encountered extensive shoaling to a depth of 5 feet when entering this canal. It was approximately two hours prior to low tide. (January 23, 2009) ICW, Mile 181.0, Neuse River, Whittaker Creek, shoaling Shoaling to a depth of 3.0ft MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Whittaker Creek Daybeacon 1 to Whittaker Creek Light 5. The shoal extends approximately 20 feet into the channel.  Chart: 11552 (June 17, 2009) ICW, Mile 205, Beaufort Inlet The Coast Guard has received a report of shoaling in Beaufort Inlet Channel from Shackleford Point near Beaufort Inlet Channel Light 16 extending west approximately 30 yards into Beaufort Channel.  Chart: 11547 (December 11, 2008) ICW, Mile 210.0, potential dangerous shoaling, update (New) Today we passed about 25 feet off "R-8", one hour past low tide. The lowest depth we saw in that area was 13'6". (January 23, 2010) Sarah Southworth s/v Moonlight Serenade We have received a report that shoaling is developing in the vicinity of Red "8" just north of mile 210.0. A 72' motoryacht drawing 5.6' ran aground in this area while still in the channel, suffering severe damage. The state of the tide at the time is unknown. The vessel is currently hauled and under going repair. The insurance adjuster working the claim states that he has handled multiple claims for vessels damaged by running aground in this area. (November 20, 2009) ICW, Mile 210.5, Spooner’s Creek The small boat dock in this anchorage is posted “Private”. Residents of the community that owns the dock have emailed us requesting that transients anchored in this area respect and obey the signs. (November 3, 2008) ICW, Mile 233.5, Factory Channel These docks are for a yacht building facility most recently operated by Hatteras. It reportedly closed in March 2008. (November 24, 2008) ICW, Mile 233.6, Sanders Creek (New) We favored the green side at "G-55" within an hour of high tide and bumped three times. Our draft is 6'3". (January 23, 2010) Sarah Southworth s/v Moonlight Serenade AIWW, Mile 237.0 – 238.7, Browns Inlet (New) Dredge working in this area. We went straight down the middle of the channel at high tide to avoid the dredge and equipment and saw 8' at one spot. (January 23, 2010) Sarah Southworth s/v Moonlight Serenade ICW, Mile 238.0, shoaling Bill Hezlep aboard Walkabout sent in this report. On the ICW at Banks Channel, approximately mile 238, Red 60 (buoy), Green 61A (buoy) and Green 63 (day mark) define a narrow shoal area. At high tide we hit one spot in mid channel that had only 8.5 feet. (October 29, 2008) We passed through ICW, Mile 238.0, yesterday (November 1, 2008) an hour before high tide. The area around Red 60 (buoy), Green 61A (buoy) and Green 63 (day mark) have shoaled up each year we have passed through.  This time we followed the GPS coordinates in your 12th edition of Skipper Bob and never saw less than 12 feet of water. Peter and Val Nucci S/V Valerie Arden ICW, Mile 244.5, Mile Hammock Bay Bill Root aboard m/v Tucandu reports that in June he was anchored here and at 6pm was ordered by Marinas to leave the anchorage due to maneuvers that were planned for the area. No advance warning had been given. Bill and another vessel anchored nearby left as darkness was approaching and were able to tie off at the fuel dock of a marina. (September 28, 2009). ICW, Mile 263.8, Sloop Point Refer to Skipper Bob’s Anchorages book. Shoaling has occurred in this area and in Dec 2008 a sailing vessel with a 5’1” draft had difficulty here and healed over approximately 20° at low tide. (January 23, 2009) AIWW, Mile 278.1, Figure Eight Swing Bridge (New) The Coast Guard is preparing the documents to change the operating hours per the following which is in the 5th District Notice to Mariners 3/10 AIWW - Figure Eight Swing Bridge - Drafting Supplemental NPRM. NPRM issued in the Federal Register; comment period ended 6 APR 09. NPRM proposes to change the existing regulations to allow the bridge to open on signal every hour on the half-hour for recreational vessels. (January 21, 2010) ICW, Mile 283.1, Motts Channel After the Wrightsville Beach bridge, we turned into Motts channel between G"25" to starboard and a 60' motoryacht at Wrightsville Beach Marina to port and promptly ran hard aground at low water. Tow boat captain said the deep water is way over by the marshy shore at G"25". Who woulda thought? (November 20, 2009) Ron Ieva s/v Lastdance ICW, Mile 293.5, Carolina Beach Inlet At the Carolina Beach Inlet north of Carolina Beach, there is severe shoaling on the red side at Mile 293.5. This is a known bad area at anything less than mid tide. Today after passing a big tow just south of Wrightsville Beach, the tug operator warned me - "Stay on the green side" Sure enough there was a trawler aground on the red side at the uncharted floating red mark with an onshore wind making it difficult to get off. Greg and Susan Han Allegria -- Krogen Whaleback #16 Re: Carolina Beach Inlet - approaching southbound, I noticed two sailboats being set by the current to the red side by the incoming current. All the water is on the green side! Greg and Judy Edwards 1000h, 29 Oct 2009 hit bottom in mid channel ICW between marker 53 and 55. low tide water in this section <6 feet. S/v Omo'o, Downeaster 38' Ketch, draft 4'11". (October 30, 2009) AIWW, Mile 293.9, Carolina Beach Inlet Severe shoaling encountered at Mile 293.9 on 12/29/2009. Went thru at MLW in mid-channel. This was mistake as we became grounded. We were not lonely as a north-bound barge and tow were also grounded. TowBoat US indicated that only safe course is outside G155 and G155A then slowly back into center of channel. Outside of marker there was 12 feet of water. We are a 36 Nauticat, 6 foot draft, full keel. Samuel Hanft s/v Stella Maris December 30, 2009) ICW, Mile 295.0, Loran & VORTAC interference The Loran towers and VORTAC in this area caused both of our GPS units to become unstable. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 297.0, Snows Cut Dredging has been completed. December 15, 2009) ICW, Mile 310.2, Dutchman’s Creek The is listed as an anchorage in the 13^th edition 2008 Anchorages Along the Atlantic ICW book. We have received several reports of severe shoaling and depths of less than 3 feet at one hour before low tide. The anchorage will be delisted. (November 9, 2008) AIWW Mile 316.6, Oak Island bridge construction Mariners are advised to take caution when approaching the construction site of a new highway bridge (Middleton Avenue) to Oak Island, over the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Mile 316.6, in Brunswick County, NC. The bridge will be under construction through March 30, 2011. Barges and cranes will be adjacent to the waterway. The waterway shall remain open to navigation until further notice. Chart 11534. (December 31, 2009) ICW, Mile 320.0, Lockwoods Folly Following the markers and Skipper Bob's notes, we made Lockwoods Folly yesterday and never saw less than 15' at 1 hour before HT. We then crossed Shallotte Inlet, favoring R"80A" and never saw less than 11' about 1/2 hour before HT (November 21, 2009) Ron s/v Lastdance ICW, Mile 330.0, Shallote Inlet The s/v Three Sheets sent us this report on December 28, 2008. Although we didn’t have much issue here, we did bump in the channel. Shoaling is in the area of G”81”, favor R”80A”. Depths in this area are very shallow until R”84”. We were about one hour off low tide. (January 23, 2009) We just traveled the ICW through Shallotte Inlet (an hour before low tide).  Using the waypoints indicated from the Corps of Engineers survey on Skipper Bob's website, we had plenty of water the whole way through. The shallowest spot we encountered was west of "G"81. Two boats ahead of us drawing 5' touched bottom staying only about 20' off of G81. Received from Idle Time (October 27, 2008) ICW, Mile 337.9, Sunset Beach Pontoon Bridge Southbound Travelers: If you are heading south on the Inter-coastal Waterway, please use caution, and stay in the channel above the Sunset Beach NC Pontoon Bridge. I live close to the waterway above the Sunset Beach Bridge, and in the last couple of weeks, I have seen two boats go aground while waiting for the hourly opening of the bridge due to shoaling on the barrier island side about a quarter of a mile above the bridge. I think what happens is boats arrive before the bridge opens, and they move to the port side of the channel while the tide is going out. There is a small bay at that point, and it may appear as if there is plenty of water, but they get caught by the outgoing tide. Yesterday I saw a Motor yacht, approximately 55 to 60 ft, leaning on it's side in the mud - no water under the boat. There was a tow boat standing by. This was about 2:00 PM; the BoatUS tow wasn't able to pull the boat off the mud until around 4:15 PM. Once off, the Tow continued to tow the Yacht north. Although I tried to follow in my truck from shore, a thick fog eliminated any visibility. A week earlier a sailboat was aground very near the same spot, and was towed off by Sea Tow Capt. Bill Favro EASTNOR Mainship390 January 2, 2010 English Construction reported today that they do not expect to set primary beams for the span until the end of December, at the earliest. (December 3, 2009) Original post of 11/11/09 below: Mariners are advised to TAKE CAUTION and PROCEED SLOWLY when approaching the construction site of a new highway bridge to Sunset Beach (SR-1172), over the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Mile 337.9, in Brunswick County, NC. The bridge girder installation is schedule to take place between 6:00 a.m. December 1, 2009 through 6:00 P.M. January 31, 2010. The contractor will be utilizing a deck barge with a 50' beam, a ringer crane on a stationary barge with an 85' beam, and tugs/pushers to conduct the bridge girder installation. To provide for the safety of the public, the Coast Guard will temporarily restrict access to this section of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway during center girder installation, scheduled daily from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.. We advise mariners to check the schedule to avoid waterway delays by calling the bridge site (910-579-3538) a day or two prior to your arrival. Chart: 11534. ICW, Mile 368.2, Hague Marina, fire A recent fire has destroyed the main marina building which housed the office, ships store, laundry and restrooms. The office is currently in a trailer, however, there are no restroom or laundry facilities. The owner stated that he plans to rebuild but does not have a firm plan nor timetable at present. (October 28, 2008). ICW, Mile 370.9, Socastee Bridge Opens on request. Very slow opening and operators prefers boats to pass through in groups so you may wait a few minutes. Watch the No-Wake Zones on both sides. ICW, Mile 415.0, Esterville Minim Creek & Duck Creek Depth of 7.5 feet at mid-tide near G5 and mostly 11.5 feet to 13.7 feet to FR12. (December 6, 2009). Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 417, Duck Creek Thanks to Mike Cahill aboard Xplorer for this report. There is shoaling in the channel at G7 where Duck Creek meets the ICW in the area of Minim Island. This is approx MM 417. We went through shortly after high tide (tide table showing +5.5' while we saw 7.2' of water. At low tide there is probably going to be something less than 3'. We were favoring the greens as we had observed even shallower water when moving away from the greens in this area. Chart 11534. (May 19, 2008) ICW, Mile 418, North Santee River Found as little as 6.8 feet at mid-tide near R18. (December 6, 2009 Richard Ross Chez Nous AIWW, Mile 420.0, South Santee River to Charleston Dredging operations will take place in the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) from Charleston to South Santee River (Channel Markers "R122" to "R24".Dredging will continue on a 24 hours per day, 7 days per week basis until approximately Thursday, April 15, 2010. For on scene communications, contact the Dredge BRUNSWICK on VHF radio channels 13 & 16. For further information contact Thomas G. Payne at (843) 722-9083. (January 21, 2010) ICW, Mile 429.0 From Marshall Gaffney aboard Capital Ranger. Dredge now working the waterway – we saw no less than 10 ft. (January 18, 2009) ICW, Mile 448.0 Depth 13.6 feet between marker 84 and 86, and 114.5 feet from marker 89 to 90 at high tide. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous Shoaling has been reported in the vicinity of Red Daybeacon 84. A temporary buoy has been deployed channelward of the assigned position in approximate position 32-54-23.500N 079-40-24.700W to mark best water. (August 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 452.5 Depth 15 feet between R100 and G101 at high tide. (October 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling in the vicinity of R "100". Depths on the green buoy line are reported as between 8.5 and 10.0 feet until R "102". South of R "102" depths on the green buoy line are between 5.8 and 8.0 feet until Copahee Sound, just past G "103". (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 460.0 A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates that channel depths, beginning at G "117A", are below 8.0 feet. South of G "117A", the green buoy line is reported to be between 2.9 feet to 6.0 feet until Inlet Creek. The red buoy line has water depths of approximately 7.5 feet. South of G "119" conditions improve and depths return to 9.0 feet and above (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 462.0, Ben Sawyer Bridge (New) Ben Sawyer Bridge construction to close waterway in Feb. Due to a scheduled replacement of the Ben Sawyer Bridge's swing span, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) will be closed to marine traffic from Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 7 A.M. through Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. The Coast Guard will enforce a safety zone around the Ben Sawyer Bridge. The safety zone will encompass the AICW from 180 yards northwest of the bridge, and 220 yards southwest of the bridge. No one may enter the safety zone without prior authorization from the Captain of the Port Charleston or his designated representative. Mariners are encouraged to monitor the Broadcast Notice to Mariners on VHF Channel 16. Coast Guard Sector Charleston will broadcast the closure of the AICW and the rescission of the corresponding safety zone as appropriate. The bridge construction schedule is somewhat dependent on weather, and any changes to the schedule will be made to this MSIB. For questions regarding the bridge construction, please contact Mr. Kim Partenheimer of PB Americas at (843) 972-1775. Coast Guard Sector Charleston may be contacted via our 24-hour Command Center Line at (843) 740-7050. (January 11, 2010) ICW, Mile 472.0, Elliott Cut Depth mostly 20 feet in Elliott Cut, and 12 feet just east of the entrance. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross, Chez Nous ICW, Mile 480.0, Stono River Depth minimum of 12 feet from G40 to G41. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 490, Wadmalaw Sound Depths of 8.6 feet or greater from G87 to G89 at mid-tide (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 497.0, Dawho River Marker G95 was not in its charted position. Believe the marker and not the chart. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 497.0 – 516.0, Dawho River – Ashepoo Coosaw Cutoff Dredging has just been completed in this area. A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 22, 2008 shows the following depths. Numerous shoals that were in this area have been removed. (December 8, 2008) ICW approx. mile 497, Dawho River, White Point: from FR"110" to G"117, depths greater than 10 feet. ICW approx. mile 510, Fenwick Cut, from FR"162" to FR"164, depths greater than 10 feet. ICW approx. mile 515, Rock Creek, from R"176" to FG"177", depths greater than 10 feet. Stay in mid-channel when rounding FG"177". ICW approx. mile 516, Ashepoo- Coosaw Cutoff, from FG"177 to G"185" depths greater than 10 feet. AIWW, Mile 536.0, Lady’s Island Bridge (New) This MSIB announces a Temporary Regulation Change of the 33 CFR 117.911-South Carolina Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway/Lady's Island Bridge, across the Beaufort River, Mile 536.0 at Beaufort. Due to ongoing construction of the new McTeer Bridge across the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, mile 539.0, Port Royal, South Carolina; Beaufort County has requested that the federal regulation on the Woods Memorial (Lady's Island) bridge be changed to: Lady's Island Bridge, across the Beaufort River, Mile 536.0 at Beaufort. The draw shall operate as follows: (1) From 7:15 a.m. to 8:59, 11:15 a.m. to 12:59 p.m. and 4:14 p.m. to 5:59 p.m. the draw need not open; and (2) Between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the draw need open only on the hour and half-hour. (3) At all other times the draw shall open on signal. The regulation will be in affect 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will remain in affect up to one year or until construction of the McTeer Bridge is completed, whichever comes first. Ref: LNM 50 through 52-09 and 01-10 Chart: 11518 This MSIB announces a Temporary Regulation Change to the hours of the Lady's Island Bridge and does not affect other aspects of the regulations - to include tugs with tows. Therefore, in accordance with 33CFR 117.911(a) public vessels of the United States and tugs with tows, upon proper signal, will be passed through the draw span of each draw bridge listed in this section at anytime; to include The Lady's Island Bridge across Beaufort River. (January 21, 2010) /S/ C. MARCY Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Chief, Prevention Department ICW, Mile 552 to 713, South Carolina and Georgia CAUTION: It is important to note that in all the shoaling reports listed below that when we refer to the green side we are referring to the eastern quarter of the channel and not just right up against the green marker. Likewise, the red side refers to that quarter of the waterway west of the center line, and not just right up against the red markers. The center is the middle half of the channel. All soundings reported from mile 552 to 713 below are based on the USACOE report dated October 6, 2009. Only those portions that are below authorized project depth are listed. The good news is that most of this area has a 7-8' tide and with careful planning most vessels can traverse this area without problems except at or near low tide. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 568.5 to 569.9, Ramshorn Creek, G37 to G39 Depths are 7.0’ MLW red quarter, 6.0’ MLW center channel, 5.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 572.2 to 572.6, Walls Cut, R42 to R44 Depths are 9.0’ MLW between R42 and R44. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 572.6 to 573.3, Wright River, R44 to R48 Depths are 10.0’ MLW between R44 and R48. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 573.0, Fields Cut, R48 to R50 Depths are 5.0' MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 4.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 576.0, Savannah free dock The Savannah City dock is no longer controlled by the city; the Park Service has taken over. We talked to Shawn at 912-651-6470 ext 1 and was told we could stay overnight and currently they are not charging any fees. The docks are first come first serve and they do lease to a large cruise ship so you must call ahead to see if it is in port. (December 4, 2009) Dick and Elle Lassman m/v Summer Wind The following text is from the 13^th edition of the anchorages book. “Mile 576.0, {8.8}, Savannah, (421123): To visit this city, leave the ICW where it crosses the Savannah River and go up stream 8 miles to the 300' free dock (3 hr limit) opposite the cotton exchange. Call 912-651-6451/6452 to arrange to stay on this dock overnight at $1/ft. (15A plug)”. Note: Overnight docking is no longer permitted. This change will be incorporated into the next revision of the book. (April 24, 2009) ICW, Mile 576.0 to 576.4, Elba Cut, R2 to R4 Depths are 2.5' MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 11.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 576.4 to 576.7, South Channel, R 4 to R6 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 12.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 579.5 to 580.8, Causton Bluff, G25 to R30 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 9.0’ MLW center channel, 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 585.5, Turner Creek, Hogan’s Marina Change to Anchorages Along the ICW book. The charge for dinghy tie up is now $10, not $5 as shown in the 13^th edition. (May 27, 2009) ICW, Mile 589.0 to 591.0, Isle of Hope, R46 to G53 Depths are 11.0’ MLW, 12.0’ center channel, 11.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 601.4 to 602.4, Hells Gate, G87 to R92 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 6.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 605.9 to 608.5, Florida Passage, R98 to R102 Depths are 6.0’ MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 4.5’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 623.9 to 629.3, Johnson Creek, G125 to G133 Depths are 12.0’ MLW red quarter, 11.0’ MLW center channel, 10.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 639.0 to 640.0, Front River, G151 to G153 Depths are 10.0’ MLW red quarter, 12.0’ MLW center channel, 10.5’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 640.0 to 642.9, Creighton Narrows, G153 to G157 Depths are 6.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 2.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 642.9 to 648.2, Old Teakettle Creek, G157 to G175 Depths are 11.0’ MLW. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 649.5 to 651.4, North River, R178 to R182 Depths are 9.0’ MLW red quarter, 9.5’ MLW center channel, 9.5’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 650.0, Darien River Shoaling has been reported on the west side of the channel in the vicinity of Darien River Daybeacon 27 and Darien River Daybeacon 29. Chart 11507 (February 6, 2008) ICW, Mile 650.0, Doboy Sound, N4 There is a shoal south of N4. Stay away from this marker. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous ICW, Mile 651.4 to 653.0, Rockedundy River, R182 to R190 Depths are 6.5’ MLW red quarter, 7.0’ MLW center channel, 7.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 653.0 to 656.4, Little Mud River, R190 to R198 (New) Went thru the Little Mud River on Monday, Jan.11 at high tide in our Nauticat 36. Depth sounder was reading zero for most of the passage. We could also feel our 6' deep keel dragging in the soft mud for most of the passage. Another boat with a 5' keel went thru at mid-tide. Based on depth sounder reading they believe that their keel was dragging in 18" of mud. (January 16, 2010) Samuel D. Hanft S/V Stella Maris Nauticat 36 Depths are 2.0’ MLW red quarter, 3.0’ MLW center channel, 2.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 656.4 to 660.1, Altamaha Sound, R198 to G213 Depths are 2.0’ MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 7.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 660.1 to 661.9, Buttermilk Sound, G213 to vicinity DM216A Depths are 9.0’ MLW red quarter, 8.5’ MLW center channel, 8.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 661.9 to 662.1, Buttermilk Sound, vicinity DM216A Depths are 5.0’ MLW red quarter, 4.0’ MLW center channel, 5.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 662.1 to 664.5, Buttermilk Sound, vicinity DM216A to G223 Depths are 3.0’ MLW red quarter, 3.0’ MLW center channel, 3.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 664.5 to 670.4, MacKay River, G223 to G237 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 9.0’ MLW center channel, 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 680.9 to 685.9, Jekyll Creek, R 2 to G25 Depths are 0.5’ MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 3.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 683.0, Jekyll Island (New) Severe shoaling. Make sure that you run the reverse range from R16 to G19 because of the shoaling. At G19 pass close to the mark - no more than 50 away. Start the turn to port you do not swing too wide. Run a line between G19 and R20 that is 50 feet inside of R20. Hold that line carefully because the mud bank comes out from both sides, especially on the north. This mud bank is especially impressive. We spent most of Tuesday afternoon looking at it while waiting for the tide to float us off the mud bank. This was the result of starting the turn after G19 and swinging about 20 feet too wide. At MLW the channel is only about 50 feet wide. If possible transit this area on the rising tide and only at mid-tide or better. (January 16, 2010) Samuel D. Hanft S/V Stella Maris Nauticat 36 ICW, Mile 684.5, Jekyll Island See text in the anchorages book. Jekyll Harbor Marina now charges $20 for dinghy dockage. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 684.5, Jekyll Harbor Marina Change to Anchorages Along the ICW book. The charge for dinghy tie up is now $20, not $8 as shown in the 13^th edition. (May 27, 2009) ICW, Mile 685.9 to 687.1, Jekyll Sound, G25 to G29. Depths are 11.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.5’ MLW center channel, 10.0’ MLW green quarter. October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 703.5, Cumberland River (New) At the Brickhill River entrance to the ICW between R58A and G63, run a line no more than 50 feet inside the green marks for 12 to 20 feet of water at mid-tide. Running a course mid-channel will guarantee a grounding. The red side is even worse. Two boats ahead of us reported the preferred course. A Canadian boat with 6 foot draft did not get the word. They grounded in the center of the channel. The island that shows on the chart does not exist. There was also 12 to 20 feet where the island was indicated. (January 16, 2010) Samuel D. Hanft S/V Stella Maris Nauticat 36 ICW, Mile 700.0 to 705.0, Cumberland Dividings, R50 to R66 Refer to NOAA Chart 11489. At aproximate mile 704 the magenta sailing line is depicted on the incorrect side of red markers "60" and "60A". In addition, shoaling has occured in the area as the following cruising report points out. "At ICW mile 704, the water level (at low tide) is 2 feet on both sides of the red buoy "60" and "60A" as well as into the channel toward the green quarter. We draw 3 1/2 feet and could not get through the channel.  We were downbound and went aground on both the port and starboard side of the reds. We think that if we had kept the red marker a minimum of 75 feet on our starboard side we would have made it. The channel is very narrow through the curve." Otis Brinn (October 20, 2009) Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 12.0’ MLW center channel and green quarter. (October 6, 2009) This year (2008) we spent Thanksgiving in St. Mary's. Every day (for 6 days) we heard boats on the VHF that were aground at marker 60 (where the Brickhill River joins the Crooked River just above the north end of Cumberland Sound). In that area, both the ICW chart that I use and my chartplotter show the ICW magenta line running between the Red marks. That is a BIG error, since there is a shoal on the Red side that comes at least 50 feet into the channel.  There are 3 or 4 reds at this turn, all are for the ICW, and you need to stay WAY off of all of them. (My chartplotter shows me going over land on the green side at this turn). I think people get confused here because they think that the red mark that the magenta line cuts behind is a mark for entering the Brickhill River so they think nothing of following the magenta line right onto the shoal. With the big tides in this area, this is not a good place to run aground. (December 2, 2008) Hoping this keeps a few cruisers in deep water, Harry and Barbara Anne Oehler  s/v Our Dream ICW, Mile 705.0 to 708.0, Cumberland Sound, R66 to R80 Depths are 7.0’ MLW red quarter, 8.0’ MLW center channel and 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (October 6, 2009) ICW, Mile 716.0, Fernandina Beach Shoaling has been reported in the middle of the channel in the vicinity of Fernandina Beach Buoy 1. Fernandina Beach Temp Buoy 1A  has been disestablish due to unmarkable shoaling in the middle of the channel. Water depth reported as less than six (6) feet at high tide. For further update and information please contact BMC Robert Lehmann at (904) 241-8401. (January 21, 2009) ICW, Mile 728.0, Nassau Sound Found depths of 9 feet in mid-channel (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous We found skinny water north of Nassau Sound at Mile 728, Green Day Mark #43. The shoal that lies east of G43 is building into the channel. We admit to traveling at near MLW and at that time found and parked for a while on less than 6' about 150' off the G43. There is as little as 3' closer to the marker. We suggest favoring mid-channel to the red quarter at this place. (May 13, 2009) Wes and DeAnn Birdsong s/v Liberty Tayana 37 6' draft ICW Mile 730.6, Nassau Sound, Sawpit Creek Depth 8.5 feet between G49 and R50. (December 6, 2009) Richard Ross Chez Nous We found and bumped on less than 6' south of Nassau Sound on Sawpit Creek at Mile 730.6, Green Day Mark #49. This day mark lies on the inside of a turn with a hard rock bank on the west and grassy dunes to the east. The shoal we bumped is building south from G49. We were being overtaken by a biggish motor yacht and were a little too generous with the deepest available water at or near MLW. We suggest favoring the red quarter close to the hard bank to the west and favoring mid-channel when five hundred feet south of the G49. (May 13, 2009) Wes and DeAnn Birdsong s/v Liberty Tayana 37, 6' draft ICW, Mile 731.0, Nassau Sound Island, NOAA Chart 11489 We have received a report from the S/V Cygnus (draft 4’ 3”) concerning this anchorage which is listed on page 76 of the Anchorages Along the ICW Book, 12^th ed... The charted depth east of R”48” is seven feet, however, severe shoaling has occurred and at low tide the bottom at the entrance is exposed. Several vessels attempting to enter at mid-tide were unable to do so and Cygnus ran aground. This anchorage will be delisted in the next edition of the anchorages book. (November 29, 2007) A report received today states that the anchorage was dry at low tide. (January 16, 2008) ICW, Mile 735.0, Ft. George River, NOAA Chart 11489 We have received comments from cruisers that due to reported shoaling this anchorage may not be useable. The report below was sent to us on January 18, 2009. We draw 5 feet and found that as long as you enter the river on half tide or better then you have enough water. The anchorage is not wide so between wind, current and tide swing could be an issue when the tide is low and you have a deep draft. The park continues to improve and the grounds are very nice. The dinghy dock opens about 0800 and closes at 1630. There are two trash receptacles. (January 22, 2009) ICW, Mile 760.0, Tolomato River Tolomato River Light 23 has been destroyed and replaced with a Temporary Lighted Buoy Channelward of Light 23. Light 23 remains below the surface and a hazard to navigation. Be cautious when transiting the area. September 6, 2009) AIWW, Mile 777.9, Bridge of Lions (New) The following was published January 22, 2010 by the Bridge of Lions Rehabilitation Project Headquarters. February 2, 2010 - February 5, 2010: Restricted each day from 7:30am until 8:00pm Tuesday through Friday, except for scheduled openings. One leaf of the drawbridge lowered - channel restricted to 35 feet horizontal clearance. Temporary bridge opens, but channel is restricted. Full channel width provided during these openings: 7am, 10am, 1pm, 4:40pm, 6pm and 8pm. February 15, 2010 - February 19, 2010: Closed all week, starting Monday evening. Channel fully closed from 8pm 2/15 until 8pm 2/19. February 22, 2010 - February 26, 2010: Closed all week, starting Monday evening. Channel fully closed from 8pm 2/22 until 8pm 2/26. These restrictions/closures have been reviewed and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Please call (904) 825-3647 or (904) 669-1165 with questions. ICW, Mile 792.4-792.7, Matanzas Inlet Area A shoal marked by green cylindrical buoy (GC) 81A extends from east to west into the channel. Travelling southbound, I was favouring the green side of the channel and ran aground at near low tide abeam GC 81A in 4.5 FT MLW. After backing off, and repositioning, I noted that the centre of the channel abeam GC 81A, extending southbound abeam GC 81B, GC 81C and GC 81D is approximately 8FT to 10FT MLW. My advice is to honour the new markers and favour the centre of the marked channel. (February 20, 2009) Courtesy S/V Heather Anne ICW, Mile 803, Palm Coast, shoaling Note: This is in the vicinity of the St. Joe Canal. Make certain that you pass on the east (ocean) side of the marker. Do not get confused here or you will run aground. At Marker 110, just south of Palm Coast Marina, SM 803, there is a significant shoal building from the west. This was readily visible about 2 hours past low tide but might be difficult to see at high tide. We stayed close to the red and still only had about 5-6 feet at one point. Chart 11485 (December 14, 2008) Jane Stone, Loose Stones ICW, Mile 840, Ponce de Leon Cut Shoaling has been reported in the vicinity of Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighted Buoy 9 (LLNR 9550). The aid has been temporarily relocated to approximate position 29-04-12.590N 080-55-13.199W to mark best water. (January 21, 2009) I have just (Dec 4, 2008) transited the ICW through the area where it goes around Ponce Inlet (a bit south of Daytona Beach, FL).  It has been dredged!  From the north end (markers 1, 2, 3) all the way though where it rejoins the path leading to the inlet at the south end of the cut (markers 16, 18, 19) I saw no less than 12 ft  and I was running right at low tide. (December 9, 2008) No need to worry about this area for a few years. Cheerfully, Harry and Barbara Anne Oehler s/v Our Dream Good news to report about the ICW in the vicinity of Ponce Inlet. Dredging was completed in October and this area is now 12 feet deep throughout. As Sanctuary asked about in April, there were 2 dredging sections to the project which resulted in the most northern section being done last. Happy cruising! (December 2, 2008) David Roach ICW, Mile 846.5, Sheephead Cut Bob Williamson aboard Legrace sent in this report. Thirty minutes ago at 12:40PM a tow pulling a dredger, work barges and a long load of piping came south through the George Musson (Coronado) Bridge (at mm 845.0) and swung the corner at Marker 34 following the ICW channel. He had plenty of water but in cutting the corner the backend of the tow took out Red Marker 34 - completely ripped it down. Last I saw of the marker it was heading for Ponce Inlet with the tide. So please put a notice out that Red 34 is gone at the north junction of the ICW & Sheepshead Cut in New Smyrna Beach at MM 845.6. ICW, Mile 986.0, St. Lucie Inlet Shoaling has been reported between St Lucie Inlet Buoy 6 (LLNR 10130) and St Lucie Inlet Buoy 7 (LLNR 10135). All mariners are advised to transit the area with caution. (January 21, 2009) ICW, Mile 987.8, St. Lucie River, old South Point Anchorage Phil Macken aboard the motor vessel Mates sent us this report. As of 1/15/09, past of the facility has reopened under the name of Sunset Bay Marina & Anchorage. Of the 86 original mooring balls, 69 are now available. The cost is $12.50/day or $295.00/month. All are on a first come, first served basis. The new marina portion will accommodate 198 boats up to 80ft. on both fixed and floating docks. This portion is expected to be completed in March 2009. The facility, when completed, will have showers, a boater’s room with wireless internet, computers and television. The final phase of the new expansion will include a ships store and restaurant and is expected to be completed in the Fall. For docking/mooring availability call 772-283-93225. AIWW, Mile 987.8, St. Lucie River, Manatee Pocket (New) 2/1/10 According to a report from Darryl Schmiermund of Hinckley Yacht Services in Stuart, the long awaited dredging project is about to begin. In an email to WG, Darry stated: " Please pass along to your marine community that the Manatee Pocket is also about to start any day. This will provide a marked 10 deep MLW channel all the way into this beautiful Pocket. I have sat on the committee for this for 3.5 years and now it's becoming a reality. " Darryl Schmiermund General Manager Hinckley Yacht Services Stuart, FL ICW, Mile 987.8, St. Lucie River/Okeechobee Waterway (New) 2/1/10 Many thanks again to Darryl Schmiermund of Hinckley Yacht Service in Stuart for this report. They (the dredge) are on station working as we speak. Darryl Schmiermund General Manager Hinckley Yacht Services Stuart, FL 1/30/29 Here is the most recent update from Darryl Schmiermund of Hinckley Yacht Service in Stuart which was sent on the 29th. "Just spoke to the dredge contractor and they are about ready to go; should pull out of here and be on station tomorrow morning. They took longer than we expected but had to commission the dredge. The good news is; per the dredge supervisor, they are now starting the dredging on the West side of the Crossroads "Reach 2" between the AICW and the Manatee Pocket. This is the worst area and is fairly small, so it shouldn't take too long." Darryl Schmiermund General Manager Hinckley Yacht Services 1/29/10 This project does not show up in the 7th District Notice to Mariners however we have been advised that the work has indeed resumed. Darryl Schmiermund, General Manager for Hinckley Yacht Service in Stuart, Florida, reported today that the Stuart Crossroads dredging at the ICW is fairly close at hand. The pipeline crew is out staging the dredge pipe and the dredge is scheduled to leave the dock today to hook up and begin operations. The pipeline staging in Manatee Pocket is also almost completed and will begin soon. We will keep you informed as the information is passed on to us. Any cruisers in the area are invited to send us an update. 1/21/10 Beware of shoaling and dredging. Jack Dozier, publisher of Waterway Guide and Skipper Bob, just transited the area in his vessel and reports " The bar runs across the channel from "3" north to slightly west of "2".  It is about 100ft across the shallowest part.  On a NW wind at low tide there is less than 5ft." We have also received a report that dredging of the area was begun several months ago but was apparently stopped by the contractor. Reports are that his equipment was not adequate to do the job. An inquiry to David Roach, Executive Director of the Florida Inland Navigation District resulted in this reply. " The Project is expected to restart next Wednesday the 27th with a larger dredge. The OWW portion of the project is scheduled to be the second area of the project to be dredged. We are estimating that work will start on the OWW section on approximately 2/8 but should take less than a week to accomplish. It is the second area to dredged because of the need to submerge a pipeline under the OWW and IWW which will be accomplished while the contractor dredges in Project area 1 in the IWW south of the Crossroads. As always transiting vessels through the work area should contact the dredge on the radio to obtain a clear passing." 1/23/09 St Lucie River Daybeacon 6 has deteriorated and has been cut off at the river bottom. Complete removal not possible due to adverse weather and river bottom conditions. The single pile steel (SPS) beam is buried under this sandy shoaling area at approximate position 27-09-54.638N 080-11-21.964W. The daybeacon has been replaced with a buoy to mark the channel. All mariners are advised that shoaling is proceeding at a rapid pace and proceeding southward. Dredging of the area is scheduled for September 2009. Shoaling also has been reported between St Lucie River Buoy 2 and St Lucie River Buoy 3. ICW, Mile 1006.1, Indiantown Road Bridge Refer to the text in the anchorages book. We have received the following update. North end of loop is mostly blocked by moored commercial boat.  Only about 2-3' of water if you can squeeze by this boat.  3-4' just inside south loop, but tricky getting in.  Not really a good place to anchor.  The moored boat has been there each time (4) we've been past this point this year.  If that boat happens to be missing, you can anchor right at the entrance to the north loop, but risk grounding if you enter the loop itself.  Inside the loop were two sailboats with lines strung from shore to shore. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1039.6, Atlantic Avenue Bridge Refer to the text in the anchorages book. Pump out is now $2.00 for 3 minutes. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1069.4, Dania Beach Blvd Bridge Charted clearance is 22’. A vessel with an air draft of 21.5’ reported to us that they struck the bridge in center channel. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1070.5, Sheridan St. Bridge Charted clearance is 22’. A vessel with an air draft of 21.5’ reported to us that they struck the bridge in center channel. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1072.5, South Lake Refer to the text in the anchorages book. We have received the following report. No dinghy access on east side, new seawall all the way along there.  You can dinghy north past Hollywood Blvd. Bridge and use the private docks at either the restaurant or Joe's Party Store, but you must patronize the establishment. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1077.3, Maule Lake Refer to the text in the anchorages book. We have received the following report. Maule Lake, very nice calm anchorage, but the marina and store are now defunct and the docks all being dismantled. No where inside old marina to tie dinghy as docks are disconnected from shore and no trespassing signs are everywhere.   Entire shoreline is rocks and oysters, very difficult to beach the dinghy.  We did find one place in the NE corner in a small bay along the creek that runs out of the lake, behind a restaurant, but not easy to tie up and only room for one dinghy.  We searched the entire shore of the lake and it is private docks and seawalls everywhere except where the shore is rocks and oysters. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Miles 1082.6 – 1089.0, Miami Beach Just a reminder that Miami Beach has an ordinance that restricts anchoring to 7 cumulative days in a 30 day period. We received a report from Carl and Carrie Butler aboard Sanctuary that the marine police are very diligent in enforcing this regulation. In an emergency or if dangerous weather conditions exist you may request an exception. ICW, Mile 1096.0, No Name Harbor Refer to the text in the anchorages book. We have received the following report. They now have a free pumpout station on the seawall just past the entrance.  Self operated.  Very good restaurant located along south seawall of the harbor. (June 1, 2009) ICW, Mile 1149 & 1153. CAUTION: Shoaling has been reported from day marker 64 south of Pigeon Key and 76A & 78 south exit of Cowpens Cut. Locals say Wilma moved the mud around and it is best to hug the markers. (Feb, 2, 2007) ICW, Mile 1215.0, Newfound Harbor Anchorage Sailboats are no longer permitted to anchor in the harbor between Little Torch Key and Big Pine Key south of US Rt. 1. (January 1, 2009) Florida, West Coast, Mile 131.8, Belleair Causeway Bridge Thanks to Jim Stroh for this report. The vertical bridge clearance published on NOAA Raster Chart 11411-2 (updated: 05/15/2007) indicates a 21ft vertical clearance. Passing through the Intracoastal Waterway (northbound) on January 1, 2008, the tide was 1.39 ft below MHW as checked on NOAA’s website. In theory there should have been at least 22.3 ft of vertical clearance (21 feet as indicated on chart + 1.39 ft for tide differential). However, there was only 16.5 ft according to the scaled ruler on the bridge bumpers. I recommend mariners requiring specific clearances not the ruler readings and depending on required clearances needing bridge lift take not of bridge operational hours. (January 17, 2008) GIWW Mile 165.0, EHL, shoaling Be aware that the marked shoal on the green side of the channel, just past the marina east of MM 165.0, extends farther out than charted. I suggest favoring the reds MM 165.0 to MM 167.0. Bill Root M/V Tucandu (December 3, 2009) GIWW mile 290.8 EHL, Smack Bayou, anchorage We anchored in Smack Bayou Monday night. Be advised that the charted 8 foot pool that is around the point to starboard has two permanent mooring balls in the middle and partially submerged wreck on the east side. We anchored west and slightly behind the mooring balls in about 8 feet at mid tide. Protection is excellent. However, there is some shoaling coming from the shore line, so I would suggest anchoring ahead of the mooring balls in deeper water to avoid swinging over a shoal. An option is to anchor in the first pool after the entrance. A trawler was anchored on the west side of that pool and seemed to do fine. Be aware there is a partially submerged wreck at the far end of that pool. Bill Root MV Tucandu (December 3, 2009) Gulf Coast ICW, mile 223.0 EHL, Ft. Walton Beach The Skipper Bob Cruising the Gulf Coast makes reference to calling “Joyce Shanahan’s” office for permission to stay at the city dock. The text should read “permission for one night’s stay can be requested from the City Manager’s Office at 850-833-9504. (February 28, 2009) Gulf Coast ICW, Mile 76 EHL, Ship Island This island previously provided nice anchorages and a pleasant spot for going ashore. However, we have just received the following: Not much is left of Ship Island. What was several miles of good protection from the South and East is now about 1/2 mile long with a few denuded trees. Sam and Ginger on svGrace Obviously the recent hurricanes have all but destroyed it. GIWW Mile 10.0 WHL, visible pipes Numerous visible pipes have been reported in the GIWW, near Mile 10.0, WHL, in approximate position 29-46-25.8N 090-04-27.6W. The pipes are reportedly not marked. Mariners are urged to use extreme caution in this area. (June 13, 2009) Gulf Coast ICW, Mile 668.4 WHL, South Padre Island Correction to text on page 13, Cruising the Gulf Coast, 5^th edition. The power line referred to in the paragraph beginning with “North of R4” is at the very north end of the anchorage. Do not proceed past the old causeway and power lines. (June 7, 2009) NOTICE: The information presented on this web site should not be used for navigation. Mariners should have the latest charts and USCG Local Notice to Mariners on their vessel when cruising. The information on this web site was correct when first obtained, but may change with time as waterway shoaling moves, new obstacles move into the waterway, etc. The information is provided only to alert you to possible problems or changes in the waterway; not as an aid to navigation.