Heads Up – Here are some recent waterway changes! Updated June 29, 2009 (Look for NEW) See NJICW mile 93.4, AIWW miles 316.6, 777.9, GIWW 308.0-314.0, EHL. Erie Canal, Mile 37.3, Amsterdam NOTE – If you are not using the 11^th edition (2008) or 12^th edition (2009) of the Skipper Bob Cruising the New York Canal System, you DO NOT have the correct telephone number for Riverlink Park. Please note that the correct number is 518-848-8359. (July 28, 2008) 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 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) NJICW, Mile 93.4, Ludlum Thorofare, bridge repairs (New) Mariners are advised that fender system and overhead steel span repairs have been extended through August 2009 at the Sea Isle Blvd Bridge, at ICW mile 93.4 over Ludlam Thorofare at Sea Isle City, NJ. To facilitate the steel span operation, scaffolding will be used reducing the available vertical clearance by approximately three feet to approximately 32 feet, above mean high water. For fender system repairs, all work will be done from a 20-foot wide barge moored to the fender itself. The channel will not be blocked. Working hours will be daylight hours and the barge will not be moved at night. Mariners should use extreme caution when transiting the area. Chart: 12316. (June 29, 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 Book. 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) 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) AIWW, Mile 5.8, Norfolk Southern Bridge #7 closure Mariners are advised that the Norfolk Southern #7 Railroad Bridge, at AIWW mile 5.8, across the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River in Chesapeake VA, will be closed to vessels requiring an opening beginning at 6 a.m. until and including 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2009 to facilitate machinery repairs. At all other times, the drawbridge will operate on its normal schedule. Chart: 12253 (June 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 80.0, Alligator River Shoaling to a depth of 7.0ft MLLW has been reported in the vicinity of Alligator River Light 7 at approx position 35-56.46N, 075- 59.52W. Chart: 11553. (April 7, 2008) 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) NC: Hatteras Inlet, shoaling A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers survey dated 17 November, 2008 indicates shoaling to a depth of 2.4 feet MLW between Hatteras Inlet Buoy 12 and Hatteras Inlet Buoy 13A. Mariners should avoid transiting this area uring periods of low water and exercise caution during other tidal periods. Mariners can view this survey at http:///www.saw.usace.army.mil/nav/small-harbors.htm Chart: 11555. (December 11, 2008) NC, Ocracoke Inlet, Big Foot Slough Channel The Dredge MARION will be conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Big Foot Slough and Ocracoke Ferry Channel from February 2nd until April 2nd, 2009. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13 and 1. Use caution when approaching and be alert for cables and anchors marked by buoys used to hold the dredge equipment in place. (February 17, 2009) A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated December 12, 2007 indicates shoaling to a depth of 3.0 feet MLW in the vicinity of Big Foot Slough Channel Daybeacon 10B. The shoal extends approximately 75 feet into the channel. Chart 11550. (February 6, 2008) 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 198.0 (approx.), construction Bill Hezlep aboard Walkabout sent in this report. Near the Adams Creek-Core Sound Canal at Jarrett Bay, new docks are being built for True World Marine. Construction barges take up about 1/3 of the canal width and a North Carolina Marine Patrol Boat was enforcing the "No Wake" zone. (October 29, 2008) 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 210.5, 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, Bear Inlet This post replaces the text in the Anchorages Along the ICW 13^th edition 2008. Watch for shoaling on the northwest side of flashing green “55” where there is less than 8 foot depths at mean low water. Stay in the center of the channel. (November 24, 2008) 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 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) ICW, Mile 278.1, Figure 8 Island The Coast Guard is proposing to change the hours of operation for this bridge. The proposal would allow for the bridge to open on signal every hour on the half hour for the passage of pleasure craft. This eliminates the opening on the hour.  The bridge would continue to open on signal for commercial vessels. Comments are due to the Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District in Portsmouth, VA by April 6, 2009. The complete proposal may be found in the Federal Register, Docket USCG-2009-0051, published February 20, 2009. (February 23, 2009) The Dredge RICHMOND will be conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Rich Inlet in Nixon Channel at the north end of Figure 8 Island from 05 February until 31 March, 2009. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13 and 16. (February 17, 2009) ICW, Mile 293.5, Carolina Beach Inlet Shoaling has been reported between Carolina Beach Inlet 2 and Carolina Beach Inlet Buoy 4.  Chart: 11534. (August 6, 2008) ICW, Mile 293.5, Carolina Beach Inlet Crossing A USACE Survey dated October 1, 2008 shows that depths in the ICW channel between markers 155 and 155A to be 6 feet or greater at MLW. (November 11, 2008) We passed Carolina Beach Inlet 11/4/08.  The trouble spot at markers 154A and 155 must have been dredged since your last published report.  We saw no less than 12' at high tide (tidal range 3').  Stay about 30 yards off both markers for good water. Peter Colket M/V Sea Angel ICW, Mile 297.0, Snows Cut We came through Snows Cut into Carolina Beach late this afternoon and just before entering the south end of Snows Cut there is a missing marker; Green 167 (about mm 297).  This is very significant marker, denoting the hard right turn from the channel coming from the Cape Fear River into the channel leading to the south end of Snows Cut. A large motor yacht cut the corner slightly early and was hard aground waiting for SeaTow.  So just a heads up. Bob Williamson On Legrace, anchored Carolina Beach, NC (April 27, 2009) ICW, Mile 297.1, Carolina Beach State Park CAUTION – The channel into Carolina Beach State Park has shoaled to 4.0' MLW. (Sept. 2007) ICW, Mile 309.0, Old Bald Head Channel Dredging Note: Dredging has been completed. The Great Lakes Dredging and Drydock Hopper Dredge PADRE ISLAND will be conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Baldhead Shoal Channel from 10 January until 08 February, 2009. Dredged material will be pumped to the Old Baldhead Shoal Channel Disposal area. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13 and 16. (January 21, 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, bridge construction (New) Mariners are advised to take caution and proceed slowly 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. Barges and a crane will be off to the side of the waterway from June 22 to July 21, 2009 causing mariners possible delays. This possible delay will be during daylight hours, two hours before and after high tide. There should be no delay at other times. Chart: 11534. ICW, Mile 320.0, Lockwoods Folly Note: Dredging has been completed. The Southwind Construction Corp. Dredge WILCO will be conducting dredging operations in the vicinity of Lockwoods Folly Inlet and Lockwoods Folly River from 19 January until 25 February, 2009. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13 and 16. January 21, 2009) 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 received a report from a vessel on October 7, 2008 that indicated that this area had plenty of water and the recommended waypoints in the post below are not required. Since the post below is from a Corps of Engineers Survey we are not deleting it. Additional cruising reports on this area would be appreciated. (October 16, 2008) 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) A US Army Corps of Engineers survey dated 28 July, 2008 indicted shoaling mid channel at Cape Fear River to Little River Buoy 80A , AIWW Mile Marker 330.5 to a depth of 0.5 feet MLLW. Mariners are advised to avoid transiting this area during periods of low water and exercise caution transiting during other tidal stages. Mariners can view this survey with recommended way points around the shoal by clicking here. Chart: 11534. (August 6, 2008) ICW, Mile 337.9, Sunset Beach Pontoon Bridge The hours of operation have changed from what is listed in the 13^th ed 2008 Anchorages book. The bridge now opens on signal, on the hour, from 7 am to 9 pm daily, year-round. (April 16, 2009) ICW, Mile 341, Reduced Depths A US Army Corps of Engineers survey dated September 19^th & 23^rd, 2008 shows depths of 8.5 feet to 10.0 feet on the green side beginning at FG”117” and continuing approximately ½ way to G”119”. Favor the red side of the channel. ICW, Mile 347.7, Reduced Depths A US Army Corps of Engineers survey dated September 19^th & 23^rd 2008 shows depth of 6.5 feet to 8.3 feet just prior to the Little River Swing Bridge. Favor the red side of the channel. Once past the bridge depths exceed 10 feet. 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 NOTE – Back on restricted openings: Opens on the ¼ and ¾ hour. Very slow opening. ICW, Mile 377.3, Bucksport We have received a report from the sailing vessel North Bound that the anchorage (listed on page 37 of the Anchorages Guide) behind the island at marker R36 is no longer satisfactory due to poor holding conditions and submerged obstructions. In addition, the Bucksport Marina has expanded/renovated and a portion of their new floating docks extends into the former anchorage area. The report also stated that the marina provides exceptional service and the restaurant good food. Finally, the nearby grocery store is no longer operational and the bus service discontinued. (November 6, 2007) ICW, Mile 383.5, Murrells Inlet Shoaling has been reported in the vicinity of Murrells Inlet Buoy 26. This inlet is open to the ocean only and is not used by ICW traffic. Local knowledge is required. (September 19, 2007) ICW, Mile 415.0, Esterville Minim Creek & Duck Creek A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated Oct. 2007 indicates shoaling just below Minim Creek. Depths as low as 6 feet occur first on the red buoy side of the channel then on both sides south past G "5". Depths then increase, however, favor the red buoy side to FG "7". Approaching G "9" depths again decrease to less than 10 feet all the way to FR "12". In the vicinity of G "9" favor the red side as depths of 7.5 feet were found on the green side. (December 11, 2007) 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 A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling in the North Santee River. Approaching FR "18" depths on the red buoy line drop to less than 9.0 feet and in the vicinity of FR "18" are reported to be 5.7 feet. Favor the green buoy line where depths are reported to be 10 feet or better. (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 419.0, Four Mile Creek A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling to a depth of 7.5 feet on the green buoy line just north of mile 419.0. Favor the red buoy line. (December 11, 2007) 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 429.5 A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling to a depth of approximately 9 feet south of G "33" for about a quarter of a mile. (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 430.0 A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling just south of Jeremy Creek at G "35A". Depths are reported to be under 9 feet in the entire channel. Favor the red buoy side as depths on the green side drop to 5.5 feet. The condition continues past G "37" then depths increase to approximately 6.5 feet on the green buoy side and will be approximately 8.0 feet on the red. Conditions improve slightly for a short distance once past Mathews Creek, then depths of 7.5 feet to 9.5 feet will be encountered until past FR "40". (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 448.5 A US Army Corps of Engineers survey dated October 2007 indicates shoaling to depths of 8.0 - 11.0 feet just prior to FG "89". Past FG "89" depths on the green buoy side decline to 6.5 feet. Favor the red line which will average about 10.0 fet to R "90". (December 11, 2007) ICW, Mile 452.5 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 453.0, Copahee Sound CAUTION – Based on USACOE report dated May 26, 2006 the ICW has shoaled to 5.7' MLW on the green side of the ICW near R102. Favor the red side for 9.8' MLW. (August 17, 2006) 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 472.0, Elliott Cut A US Army Corps of Engineers survey dated January 2008 shows shoaling to a depth of 8 feet MLLW on the green buoy side of the channel in the vicinity of mile 472.0. (January 21, 2008) ICW, Mile 480.0, Stono River A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated January 2008 shows shoaling to a depth of 5.9 feet MLLW on the red buoy side just past FG"39" and continuing below 9.0 feet MLLW until just past G"41". In addition, shoaling to a depth of 5.6 feet MLLW occurs on the green buoy side of the channel just prior to G"41" but then improves. Just prior to G"45" the green buoy side again shoals to a depth of approximately 8.5 feet MLLW and dontinues until past G"45". Favor the red buoy side of the channel. (January 21, 2008) ICW, Mile 490, Wadmalaw Sound A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated January 2008 shows shoaling to a depth as low as 6.5 feet MLLW in the channel between markers R"82A" and FG"83" just prior to mile 490.0. (January 21, 2008) 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. ICW, Mile 529.0, Brickyard Creek, shoaling A US Army Corps of Engineers Survey dated June 2008 shows shoaling to depths of 9 feet on both sides of the channel as you enter Brickyard Creek downbound from the Coosaw River. In addition, south of "G" 209, shoaling to a depth of 4 feet exists of the red side of the channel. Favor the green side, where shoaling does not exceed 7 feet. Conditions improve once south of "FR" 210. Between "G" 217 and "G" 219, shoaling to 9 feet occurs on the red side of the channel. (June 23, 2008) 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 January 13, 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. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 568.5 to 569.9, Ramshorn Creek, G37 to G39 From Marshall Gaffney aboard Capital Ranger. The CG has added a red Nun #40 at the south end of the cut, clearly showing the entrance to the creek. The old #40 located about 400 yards south is now 40A. (January 18, 2009) Depths are 7.5’ MLW red quarter, 9.0’ MLW center channel, 7.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 572.2 to 572.6, Walls Cut, R42 to R44 Depths are 9.0’ MLW between R42 and R44. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 572.6 to 573.3, Wright River, R44 to R48 Depths are 10.0’ MLW between R44 and R48. (January 13, 2009 ICW, Mile 573.0, Fields Cut, R48 to R50 Depths are 4.0' MLW red quarter, 4.0’ MLW center channel, 6.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 576.0, Savannah free dock 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, 9.0’ MLW center channel, 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 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. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 578.2 to 579.5, Habersham Creek, R10 to G25 Depths are 13.0 MLW red quarter, 15.0’ MLW center channel, 11.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 579.5 to 580.8, Causton Bluff, G25 to R30 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 8.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 580.8 to 582.8, Thunderbolt, R30 to G35 Depths are 10.0’ MLW red quarter, 13.0’ MLW center channel, 11.0’MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 585.5 to 589.0, Skidaway River, R40 to R46 Depths are 12.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 10.5’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 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 10.0’ MLW, 12.0’ center channel, 11.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 591.0 to 594.0, Skidaway Narrows, G53 to G71 Depths are 10.0’ MLW red quarter, 12.0’ MLW center channel, 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 592.9, Skidaway Narrows Bridge. NOTE: Clarification of the opening schedule. Restricted: Monday to Friday from 7-9AM opens only on the hour (7,8, and 9AM) and from 4:30-6:30PM opens only hourly on the half hour (4:30, 5:30, and 6:30PM). On request at all other times. (November 5, 2007) ICW, Mile 594.0 to 597.0, Burnside River, G71 to G79 Depths are 10.0’ MLW red quarter, 11.0’ center channel, 11.0’ green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 597.0 to 601.4, Vernon River, G79 to G87 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 8.5’ MLW center channel, 8.5’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 600.5, Hells Gate Cottrell Contracting Corporation has commenced dredging operations between Raccoon Key Lighted Buoy 87 and Hells Gate Light 92. All vessels are requested to stay clear of the dredge, pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires about the dredge. All operators should be aware that the dredge and pontoon lines are held in place by cables, which are attached to anchors some distance from the dredge and pontoons. Buoys area attached to the anchors so that they may be moved as the dredge moves. Submerged lines should be avoided. All vessels are requested to exercise extreme caution when approaching, passing, and leaving the dredging plant. The dredge RICHMOND will monitor VHF Channels 13 and 16 for passing information. This project will continue until completion on or about July 2, 2009. For further information please contact Mr. Frank Hall at (757) 547-9611. (May 15, 2009) ICW, Mile 601.4 to 602.4, Hells Gate, G87 to R92 Pascal Gademer aboard the m/y Charmer sent this report. 10’ MLW at G”87”. I aimed halfway between G”89” and the diamond marker on the red side and never found less than 9’ MLW. By the diamond marker I saw about 15’ MLW before turning toward G”89”. 9’ MLW by G”89” gradually going up to 7’ MLW between G”89” and R”90”. 8.5’ MLW 50’ off R”90”. 10’MLW off R”92”. (November 3, 2008) Depths are 3.5’ MLW red quarter, 1.5’ MLW center channel, 1.0’ MLW green quarter. Follow temporary markers. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 605.9 to 608.5, Florida Passage, R98 to R102 Depths are 6.0’ MLW red quarter, 6.0’ MLW center channel, 6.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 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. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 640.0 to 642.9, Creighton Narrows, G153 to G157 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 3.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 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 649.5 to 651.4, North River, R178 to R182 Depths are 9.0’ MLW red quarter, 9.0’ MLW center channel, 9.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 651.4 to 653.0, Rockedundy River, R182 to R190 Depths are 8.0’ MLW red quarter, 8.0’ MLW center channel, 8.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 653.0 to 656.4, Little Mud River, R190 to R198 Pascal Gademer aboard m/y Charmer sent this report. Depths all on the center line. 8’ MLW by G”193”. 7.5’ MLW south of G”193”. 6’ MLW by R”194”. 6’ MLW all the way to G”195” with a little more water on the green side. There is a shoal that extends into the channel by the range marker across from G”195”. (November 3, 2008) Depths are 3.0’ MLW red quarter, 4.0’ MLW center channel, 3.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 654.5 to 655.5, Little Mud River, navigation report We transited the Little Mud River at 3:00 pm on Friday 7 Nov. 2008, less then an hour after local highwater. For most of the distance between Green 193 and Green 195 (approximately mile 654.5 to 655.5) we had between 9 and 12 feet, allowing for a 6 foot normal tide low water in this section would have depths of 4 to 7 feet and an 8 foot lower low would be a real problem. (November 9, 2008) Bill Hezlep m/v Walkabout ICW, Mile 656.4 to 660.1, Altamaha Sound, R198 to G213 Depths are 5.0’ MLW red quarter, 7.0’ MLW center channel, 8.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 660.1 to 661.9, Buttermilk Sound, G213 to vicinity DM216A Depths are 10.0’ MLW red quarter, 10.0’ MLW center channel, 10.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 661.9 to 662.1, Buttermilk Sound, vicinity DM216A Depths are 5.0’ MLW red quarter, 6.0’ MLW center channel, 7.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 662.1 to 664.5, Buttermilk Sound, vicinity DM216A to G223 Depths are 2.5’ MLW red quarter, 4.0’ MLW center channel, 6.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 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, 10.0’ MLW green quarter. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 680.9 to 685.9, Jekyll Creek, R 2 to G25 Depths are 2.5’ MLW red quarter, 5.0’ MLW center channel, 3.0’ MLW green quarter. (June 23, 2008) 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 685.9 to 695.6, Alternate route to bypass St Andrew Sound. Depths in the center channel range from 4.0’ MLW to 9.0’ MLW with the lowest depth in Floyd Creek between RA21 and RA31. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 658,9 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. (January 13, 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 700.0 to 705.0, Cumberland Dividings, R50 to R66 Depths are 7.0’ MLW red quarter, 12.0’ MLW center channel and green quarter. (January 13, 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. (January 13, 2009) ICW, Mile 708, Cumberland Sound The Camden County Sheriff reportedly has a patrol boat active in this area and has boarded boats for a safety and ID check. Make certain you have your gear together . (November 2, 2007) 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 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 729.0, Nassau Sound CAUTION: Day mark R46A has been removed by the USCG. Turn at R46 in Nassau Sound. (December 2, 2006) ICW, Mile 729.4, Nassau Sound CAUTION: Day mark R46B at the entrance to Sawpit Creek has been changed to Day mark R46A. (December 2, 2006) ICW Mile 730.6, Nassau Sound, Sawpit Creek 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 778, Bridge of Lions (New) The navigation channel will be closed several times during the months of July and August, 2009. Visit the rehabilitation project website for complete details (http://www.fdotbridgeoflions.com/) (June 29, 2009) 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. ICW, Mile 987.8, St. Lucie River/Okeechobee Waterway 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. (January 23, 2009). ICW, Mile 995.9, Hobe Sound Bridge The 12^th Edition of the Anchorages Along The ICW Guide lists this bridge on page 89 as having restricted hours from November to January. This no longer applies. The bridge now opens on demand all year. (November 28, 2007) 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 1048.2, Camino Real Bridge The opening schedule for this bridge is now every 20 minutes starting on the hour. The 12^th edition of the Anchorages Along the ICW states every 30 minutes. (December 28, 2007) 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. Sanctuary also reported that new owners of the Wash Time Laundromat at 14^th Street and Alton Road will provide pick up service on Collins Canal. Call them at 305-672-7110. (December 29, 2007) 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 1134.1, Jewfish Creek Bridge Vessels no longer have to wait for the old bascule bridge to open. The new bridge has a 65' vertical clearance and the old bridge has been totally removed. (December 20, 2008) 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 308.0-314.0 EHL, dredging (New) Continuing until approximately August 17, 2009, the Dredge KELLY L will be dredging in the GIWW near Overstreet, Florida. Dredging will be performed from approximate Mile 308.0, EHL, to Mile 314.0, EHL. The Dredge KELLY L will be using floating and submerged pipelines, along with supporting vessels. Dredging will be performed 24-hours a day, 7-days a week and will be monitoring VHF-FM Channels 13 or 16. Mariners are urged to transit at their slowest safe speed to minimize wake and proceed with caution after passing arrangements have been made. (June 29, 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. De 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.