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CAROLINAS & GEORGIA UPDATES

30 August 2010

SC: Charleston Security Zone

In accordance with 33 CFR 165.709, the Captain of the Port Charleston, South Carolina is hereby notifying the maritime community that two separate enforcement periods are in effect. At 12 A.M. on Thursday, September 9, 2010 until 12 A.M. on Friday, September 10, 2010 and also 12 A.M. on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 until 12 A.M. on Wednesday, September 15, 2010, the Captain of the Port will establish a temporary Security Zone for all waters on the Cooper River-bank to bank and surface to bottom-from the Don Holt I-526 Bridge over the Cooper River to the intersection of Foster Creek at a line on 32 degrees 58 minutes North Latitude (see picture). Coast Guard security boats will be patrolling the area to enforce the security zone.

All vessels or persons are prohibited from entering, transiting, mooring, anchoring, or loitering within the security zone unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port Charleston, South Carolina or his designated representative.

All persons requesting to transit through the security zone or request safety and maneuvering information must contact the Coast Guard via VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at (843) 740-7050 and request permission to transit the security zone.

CG Sector Charleston will broadcast the implementation and rescission of the security zone so mariners can plan accordingly. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston Waterways Management Division at SECTORCHASN-WWM@USCG.MIL. If you have any safety concerns, please contact the Coast Guard Sector Charleston's 24 hour command center on VHF-FM Channel 16 or via phone at (843) 740-7050.

/S/

M. F. WHITE
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard

Coast Guard Sector Charleston

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18 August 2010

Bridge Closing - Onslow Beach Bridge at MM 240.7

One question we get ask over and over is "How long does it take to transit the ICW"? To answer that recently we have had to say, "It will seem like forever". Here again is a recent notice From the US Coast Guard for the closing of the waterway at the Onslow Beach Bridge at MM 240.7, due to construction. It will be wonderful once all of the new bridges are completed but in the mean time, just slow down and enjoy the scenery.

NC - ATLANTIC INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY (AICW) - NORTH CAROLINA CUT

Mariners are advised that urgent mechanical repairs will be performed at the Onslow Beach Swing Bridge across the North Carolina Cut, at AICW mile 240.7, at Camp Lejeune, NC. To facilitate repairs, the swing span will be closed to vessels requiring an opening beginning at 1 a.m. on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 through 11:59 on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. The available vertical clearance in the closed position is approximately 12 feet, above mean high water. Mariners able to pass under the closed span may do so, should adjust their transits accordingly and exercise caution when transiting the area.

GA: Skidaway Narrows, AIWW approx. mile 592.0, sunken vessel

A sailboat has reportedly sunk in approximate position 31-58.11N 081-03.10W in the vicinity of Skidaway
Narrows DBN 50.

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17 August 2010

NC: Onslow Beach Swing Bridge, AIWW mile 240.7, closure for repairs

Waterway Guide just received this notice from the CG.

Mariners are advised that urgent mechanical repairs will be performed at the Onslow Beach Swing Bridge across the North Carolina Cut, at AICW mile 240.7, at Camp Lejeune, NC. To facilitate repairs, the swing span will be closed to vessels requiring an opening beginning at 1 a.m. on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 through 11:59 on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. The available vertical clearance in the closed position is approximately 12 feet, above mean high water. Mariners able to pass under the closed span may do so, should adjust their transits accordingly and exercise caution when transiting the area.

NC: Dismal Swamp, shoaling

The Army Corps. of Engineers is reporting shoaling to a depth of 6.0 feet approximately 500 feet south of the South Mills Lock at Joyce Creek.

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29 July 2010

NC: AIWW Mile 316.6, Oak Island Bridge construction, update

7/29/10

AIWW - 2nd Oak Island Bridge - New high-level fixed bridge is under construction. The bridge girder installation is scheduled to take place through 31 DEC 10. To provide for the safety of the public, the CG will temporarily restrict access to this section of the AIWW during center girder installation causing delays for four hours from 0730 until 1130. Waterway Guide will post additional information as it becomes available.

6/15/10

Mariners are advised to TAKE CAUTION and PROCEED SLOWLY when approaching the construction site of a new highway bridge to Oak Island (Middleton Avenue) over the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Mile 316.6, in Brunswick County, NC. Construction shall continue through December 31, 2010 with occasional barges and snooper cranes along the channel. We advise mariners to check for future notices on this project. Chart : 11534.

AIWW - 2nd Oak Island Bridge - New high-level fixed bridge is under construction. The bridge girder installation is scheduled to take place through 31 JUL 10. To provide for the safety of the public, the CG will temporarily restrict access to this section of the AIWW during center girder installation causing delays for four hours from 0730 until 1130.

1/21/10

AIWW - 2nd Oak Island Bridge - New high-level fixed bridge is under construction. The bridge girder installation is scheduled to take place through 30 MAR 10. To provide for the safety of the public, the CG will temporarily restrict access to this section of the AIWW during center girder installation causing delays for four hours from 0730 until 1130.


12/30/09

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.

12/28/09

Note: Various news sources reported on December 21 and 22, 2009 that the bridge, which was originally scheduled to be completed by the end of 2009 will now be completed sometime in the spring of 2010. It was also reported that two additional girders need to be set before the wateway is clear.

Home page photo courtesy of Oak Island Information Officer Kyle Thomas.

Mariners are advised to TAKE CAUTION and PROCEED SLOWLY when approaching the construction site of a new highway bridge to Oak Island (Middleton Avenue), over the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Mile 316.6, in Brunswick County, NC from 08 December, 2009 until 11 January, 2010. Barges and a crane will be in the channel installing girders causing delays of approximately four hours between :07:30 A.M. and 11:30 P.M.
To avoid waterway delays, we advise mariners to check the construction schedule by calling the bridge site (910-278-5526 or 910-443-0688) a day or two prior to their arrival. Chart: 11534.

Note: Various news sources reported on December 21 and 22, 2009 that the bridge, which was originally scheduled to be completed by the end of 2009 will now be completed sometime in the spring of 2010. It was also reported that two additional girders need to be set before the wateway is clear.

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27 July 2010

NC: Beaufort, Gallants Channel, US 70 bridge closure

The US 70 (Grayden Paul) Bridge at mile 0.1 will be closed to vessels requiring an opening from 10:30am to 12:30pm on September 11, 2010 to accomodate the annual triathlon fundraiser for the Neuse River Foundation.

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19 July 2010

NC: Dismal Swamp Canal, cruising report reveals hazards

Many thanks to Tom Jones for the following report.

Ted,

As a follow up to my previous note, the following are the specific locations of the underwater contact we had with objects on the Dismal Swamp July 16, 2010 while transiting center channel south to north in our 38 foot power boat with a 36" draft. 2 of the dead heads surfaced, but 3 of our "bumps" did not. With our travel speed at 4.5 to 6 kts on the Dismal Swamp, we were fortunate in that further inspection after our arrival in Norfolk, VA area indicated we had no damage to shafts, props, trim tabs or rudders, as well as no vibration at cruise speed.

Locations:
1. Pasquotank River, approx 300 yds north of Joe's Island Creek: Lat - 36 degrees 23' 20" N; Lon - 76 degrees 16' 00" W

2. Abeam mile marker 26 - approx. Lat - 36 degrees 31' 61" N; Lon - 76 degrees 21' 93" W

3. Approx mile 17.5 - Lat - 36 degrees 38' 30" N, Lon - 76 degrees 22' 39" W

4. Approx. Lat - 36 degrees 38' 55" N; 76 degrees 22' 32" W

5. Tree lying across Dismal Swamp in the north section, from west bank to east (exact location not recorded), covering 60% of the canal. With our 12' beam we were able to move around the east end of it without touching the east shore in 4.5 to 5 ft of water depth. North side Lockmaster indicated tree was to be removed the week of July 19th by equipment just brought into the area. Additional "clean up" is suppose to begin at that time also. Until some major clean up of the Dismal Swamp occurs, I could not recommend "route 2" through here to anyone with exposed props at any draft. I have also forwarded this information to the agency websites you gave me.

Feel free to use this information if it can be helpful to other people cruising this area.

Regards, Tom Jones m/v Marbles
 

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15 July 2010

NC: USACOE requesting bids for dredging in Intracoastal Waterway

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington Office requires a contract to provide Maintenance Dredging Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Various Location, Hobucken and Core Creek Land Cuts and Bogue Inlet to Shallotte Inlet, Wilmington, North Carolina.

The contract will be Firm Fixed Price. Work consists of the removal and placement of approximately 800,000 cubic yards of unclassified materal for placement on various beaches and upland disposal areas to be determined.

Estimated cost range of this project is $1,000,000 to $5,000,000.

The bid opening date will be specified on or about 29 July 2010.

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06 July 2010

NC: Alligator River, AIWW mile 81.0, channel report

7/4/10

Ed Note. Dave's report confirms that following the markers and staying in the middle of the channel will get you deep water. Ignore the magenta line.

We just went through ( 7/1/10 ) the Middle ground with a 3'10" draft and touched with a 2 foot swell just southeast of marker R8, 50 feet east we had 9 feet.

Dave Harvey




5/19/10

This post is from the 5th District Notice to Mariners 20/10

Shoaling to a depth of 4.0 ft MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Alligator River Light 7 (LLNR 37845) and Alligator River Light 8 (LLNR
37850). Mariners are requested to transit the area with caution. Chart: 11553.

Note the post of 5/7 below. If anyone encounters this shoaling please submit a report to Waterway Guide.

5/7/10

Transited this area today and confirm the posts below. Our paper chart was correct, however, the charts on our two plotters were not correct, even though one had been "updated" download in January. The route between Long Point Shoal and Middle Ground is now a "zig-zag, not a straight run. Follow the markers. Depths are good.....never saw less than 12 feet.

Ted Stehle
aboard Waterway Guide Lady


3/23/10

There is a spot in the ICW that needs  to be addressed : Mile 81 in North Carolina.
All markers have been changed and you should not trust any of the charts or your chartplotter. Watch for the markers and follow them !!!  There are some new markers and some older ones have been moved or  removed altogether.

Keep up the good work
Stephan Hawranke

2/15/10

I transited the channel in the Alligator River near marker 8 and with 6' draft noticed no shoaling. the markers ar the mouth of the river are often moved and may not be correctly positioned on mariners charts. As on most of the waterway boaters should follow the markers here and not their charts.

Ed Seling,
Moonshadow

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17 June 2010

NC: Alligator River Swing Bridge, AIWW mile 84.2, nightime closure and safety zone

6/17/10

After receiving the comment from Doug posted below, Waterway Guide called the bridge tender. It seems that no one knows if the schedule is changed or not. They tell him something different every week. He advised that we just check back in about a week or so and see what the status is or contact the Coast Guard and see if they have an update. We will do that and post the information here.


5/25/10

For those who might travel the Alligator River this summer, the following could impact you.

The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone on the waters of the Alligator River directly under the US Highway 64 Swing Bridge. The safety zone is necessary to provide for the safety of mariners on navigable waters during maintenance of the US Highway 64 Swing Bridge. The State of North Carolina Department of Transportation awarded a contract to Coastal Gunite Construction Company of Cambridge, MD to perform bridge maintenance on the US Highway 64 Swing Bridge crossing the Alligator River at mile 84.2 of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, in Columbia, NC. The contract provides for cleaning, painting, and steel repair. The contractor will require the swing bridge to remain in the closed position during painting daily from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., beginning on July 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010. An evening opening will be provided at 1 a.m., if at least two hours advanced notice is provided to the contractor by contacting the bridge at telephone number (252) 796-7261 or VHF Marine Band Radio channel 13. At all other times, the swing bridge will be required to open for the passage of vessels when a request or signal is given. The Coast Guard will temporarily restrict access to this section of the Alligator River during the painting of the swing span when maintenance equipment will be obstructing the waterway.
Chart: 11542.

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15 June 2010

NC: ICW mile 278.1, Figure Eight Swing Bridge, schedule change, update

6/15/10

The proposed schedule change has been withdrawn. The following is from the Fifth District Local Notice to Mariners.

AIWW - Figure Eight Swing Bridge - Withdrawal of NPRM sent to Federal Register.

1/21/10

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.

2/23/09

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. Click here.

NC: New Bern, Neuse River, Safety Zone

The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone on the waters of the Neuse River at New Bern, North Carolina. The safety zone will encompass the waters of the Neuse River bound by the following coordinates: 35°,06",55.5"N/077°,02',5.9"W, thence to 35°,07",9.2"N/077°,01',32.9"W, thence to 35°,06",38.8"N/077°,01',16.7"W, thence to 35°, 06",6.1"N/077°,01',23"W, thence to 35°,06",2.9"N/077°,01',56.6"W, thence to 35°,06",40.4"N/077°,01',54.7"W. The safety zone is necessary to protect mariners and the public
transiting the Neuse River immediately below the New Bern Air Show from the hazards associated with the air show. All vessels are prohibited from transiting, anchoring in, or loitering in this section of the Neuse River while the safety zone is in effect. This zone will be in effect from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. July 4, 2010. Entry into the zone during the closure period will not be permitted except as specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port or a designated representative. Mariners should exercise extreme caution when transiting the area. Chart: 11552.

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09 June 2010

NC: Surf City, SR 50 Swing Bridge, AIWW mile 260.7, maintenance closure

This closure should have little impact on pleasure craft.

Mariners are advised that the S.R. 50 Swing Bridge, at AIWW mile 260.7 at Surf City, NC will be closed to vessels requiring an opening beginning at 8 p.m. on Sunday June 20, 2010 through 5 a.m. Monday June 21, 2010, to facilitate bridge maintenance. At all other times, the swing bridge will operate in accordance with the operating regulations set forth in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Part 117.821. Mariners should adjust their transits accordingly and use caution when transiting the area. Chart: 11541.


 

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03 June 2010

NC: Shallotte Inlet area, AIWW mile 330.0 dredging completed

Dredging in the AIWW channel adjacent to Shallotte was completed in April 2010.

NC: Lockwoods Folly Inlet area, AIWW mile 320.0, dredging completed

The AIWW channel adjacent to Lockwoods Folly Inlet was dredged in April 2010.

SC, Edisto, AIWW mile 501.3, dredging completed

This project was completed in May 2010.

5/3/10

Just came thru there. The dredge and the floating pipes took up 2/3 of
the channel. I sneaked thru with a foot of width to spare. My depth sounder
reported 4.5 feet at near low tide for most of the way. My boat draws 6
feet so I was making a new channel in the mud bottom.

4/30/10

We have reported the dredging in this area previously, but for those of you that missed it or will be transiting the area soon and need an update, dredging operations have been under way since early April. It is always good news when problem areas along the waterway receive dredging funds and the projects actually begin. But it also means transiting those areas while the dredging equipment and related pipelines and support boats are present can be as challenging as transiting the area with the shoals.

Boaters have reported small work boats escorting pleasure craft through the dredging area, but that is unconfirmed.

Chuck Baier Gen Mgr
Waterway Guide

4/10/10

Marcol Dredging Company will begin dredging operations with the dredge "CAPT LEO" on or about Friday April 09, 2010. Dredging operations will take place on the Intracoastal Waterway in the vicinity of the Dahoo Bridge ( AKA McKinley Washington Jr. Bridge) and boat landing area in Edisto, SC. Dredging will continue on a 24 hours per day, 7 days per week basis until approximately, Sunday June 6, 2010.

For on-scene communications Dredge CAPT LEO will be monitoring VHF 66A and 16. For more information please contact Marcol Dredging Company at (843) 747-2177. For Coast Guard related issues please contact Sector Charleston Waterways Management Division at (843) 720-3274 or Sector Charleston Command Center Line at (843) 720-7050.

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26 May 2010

NC: Oregon Inlet, shoaling

5/26/10

A ACOE hydrographic survey conducted 07 May, 2010, identifies shoaling to a depth of 4.9 feet MLW east of the fendered opening span of the Herbert Bonner Bridge . Mariners are advised to exercise caution and are advised to transit under the bridge only at the fendered opening to
prevent damage to the vessel or to the bridge. A survey may be viewed at http://saw.usace.army.mil/nav/manteo-oregon/oregon-inlet/oiebar.pdf


2/19/10

Shoaling to a depth of less than 5.0 feet MLW has been reported 150 yards east of the center span of the Bonner Bridge in approximate position 35-46.425N, 075-32.125W.

Ed Note: This is a very difficult inlet to navigate. Do not use in foul weather and if possible follow a local boater in.

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21 May 2010

GA: AIWW mile 601.4 to 602.4, Hell Gate, possible shoaling

WG has heard talk of possible shoaling once again in this area. We're asking for confirmed cruising reports. If you have recently transited this area please submit a report on the conditions you found. It is unfortunate that this could be occuring so soon after dredging in 2009.

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19 May 2010

GA: Sawpit Creek, AIWW mile 731, shoaling

The Coast Guard has recevied a report of shoaling on the east side of the channel in the vicinity of Sawpit Creek LT 49 (LLNR 38190), TEMP buoy
49A has been established to mark best water.

Ed Note: There is persistent shoaling in this area and it is a good idea to favor the west side.

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13 May 2010

NC: Bogue Inlet, shoaling

Shoaling to a depth of 1.0ft MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Bogue Inlet Buoy 1 (LLNR 29495) and Bogue Inlet Bouy 3 (LLNR 29503). Mariners are advised to transit the area with caution. Chart: 11541.

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09 May 2010

Fields Cut, AIWW mile 575.0, shoaling report

We just transited Fields Cut at low tide and registered water less than 4.5
feet. Fields Cut is located just after you cross the Savannah River going
north. The shallow area is between the range marker at the south end of
the cut and the cement pilings on the east shore, roughly 100 yards of
shallow water.

Be careful out there!

Todd & Brenda Lanning
Life's2Short

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07 May 2010

SC: Ashepoo Coosaw Cutoff, AIWW mile 517.0, shoaling report

Entering Ashepoo Coosaw cutoff northbound water shoals from 20 plus feet to about 5 ft (at low tide.) Between green 181 and large drain pipe to starboard shoals again to about 5 ft.

Peter Chapin

GA: Wilmington River, AIWW mile 580.0, shoaling report

Wilmington River, GA ran aground just south of red 30. We were about 100 ft south of the marker & 100ft inside the channel. We draw 5'4". Tide was near low.

Peter Chapin

GA: Ossabaw Sound, shoaling

The Coast Guard has received a report of shoaling in the channel of 6 feet or less depth approximately 100 yards south of Ossabaw Sound North Channel DBN 10 and DBN 12.

Ed Note: This is part of a charted route around Hell Gate as is not a portion of the AIWW. It is not recommended by Waterway Guide.

SC: Rock Creek, AIWW mile 514.0, shoaling report

Rock Creek (Mile 514 of ICW) from green 177 to red 172 stay well to right when heading north. Left of magenta line shoals quickly to 5ft (near low tide).

Peter Chapin

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05 May 2010

SC: Ashepoo Coosaw Cutoff, AIWW mile 518 approx. shoaling

ICW at Green 185 under 5' at MLW. Cutoff is between 5' and 6' at MLW.

Faith Olsen

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01 May 2010

GA: Skidaway Island, Ossabaw Sound, shoaling

MSIB (38-10) - SHOALING IN OSSAWBAW SOUND, GEORGIA

Issued: 30APR 2010/1500
Expires: TBD

Sector Charleston has received a report that shoaling has been observed in Ossabaw Sound channel, from the North side of the channel between Ossabaw Day Beacon R10 and R12 extending 150 yards south into the channel at a depth of 6ft or less. The paper chart shows a depth of 23Ft of water, which is actually 6ft or less. All Mariners are advised to transit the area with caution. For any other information please contact Sector Charleston's Waterways Management Division at (843) 720-3274 or the 24 Hour Command Center Line at (843) 740-7050.

Ed Note: Chart 11509. This is not a portion of the AIWW.

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27 April 2010

NC: Lockwoods Folly River, dredging

The dredge WILKO will be conducting dredging operation within the limits of the AIWW at the Lockwoods Folly River Crossing from 01 May until 14 May, 2010. A floating and submerged pipeline will run along the southernmost shoreline of the AIWW from the Lockwoods Folly River Crossing to the Sheep Island Disposal Area. The pipeline will be marked with buoys and yellow flashing lights in accordance with Coast Guard Regulations. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM channels 13 and 16. Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week, all fishnets, crabpots and structures in the general area must be removed prior to commencement of any work. A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels Chart: 11543.

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14 April 2010

SC: Charleston Harbor, Cooper River, aid to navigation

The following change will be made to the aids to navigation system in the Cooper River.
COOPER RIVER LIGHT 102 (LLNR3195) has been temporarily discontinued. This change will become permanently on May 15, 2010. All comments should be addressed to Commander (DPW), Seventh Coast Guard District 909 S.E. 1st Ave (STE 406) Brickell Plaza Federal Bldg Miami, Florida 33131 to be received by 10 May 2010.

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13 April 2010

NC: Carolina Beach Inlet, AIWW 293.5, dredging completed

4/13/10

Dredging in this area has been completed and depths are reported to be 9 feet at MLW. Also, Marker #155 is reportedly out of positiion.

2/24/10

The dredge JENNI LEA will be conducting dredging operations in the AIWW at Carolina Beach Inlet to Snows Cut from 20 February until 21 March, 2010. The vessels BETTY LOU and MISS LEANNE will be onscene. The dredge and assisting vessels will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13, 16 & 78. A floating and submerged pipeline will traverse from Snows Cut along the eastern shore line of the AIWW and then easterly along the shoreline of Carolina Beach Inlet to the Carolina Beach disposal area. The pipeline will be lighted in accordance with Coast Guard regulations. Dredging projects are usually conducted
twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week.

NC: Oregon Inlet, shoaling

Shoaling to a depth of less than 4.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Oregon Inlet Channel Buoy 40 and Oregon Inlet Channel Buoy 42. Mariners are requested to transit this area with caution. Chart: 12205.

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12 April 2010

SC, Hilton Head, Skull Creek, AIWW mile 557.6, bridge repair

Ed. Note: The following Marine Safety Information Bulletin refers to the bridge as a draw. This is in fact a 65' vertical clearance fixed bridge.

MSIB 33-10

R.L. Morrison and Sons, Inc. will begin bridge fender repair operations with the barge "CAPT HORRY" on or about Monday April 12, 2010. Bridge Repair operations will take place in the Intracoastal Waterway on the US 278 Bridge near Skull Creek. Repairs will continue during daylight hours only, 7 days per week until approximately Saturday June 12, 2010.

Barge and Tugs will be in the channel near the draw and will partially obstruct the channel. Mariners should maintain safe speeds, remain cognizant of these operations while in the area and cautious while transiting through.

For on-scene communications Tug Eliza Lucas and Amazonas will be monitoring VHF 16. For more information please contact R.L. Morrison and Sons, Inc. at (843) 887-3261. For Coast Guard related issues please contact Sector Charleston Waterways Management Division at (843) 720-3274 or Sector Charleston Command Center Line at (843) 720-7050.

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28 March 2010

GA: AIWW cruising report

Just to let everyone know I am on the hook @ Altamaha Sound, Ga. No problems encountered from Beach Marina to here along the ICW ... windy and rough, trailing sea's in the sounds, go slow to careful ...Hello and thanks to John and Ellie on Adios."

Tom - Hummel Hummel

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25 March 2010

NC: Oregon Inlet and New River Inlet, dredging

A. The ACOE dredge FRY has begun daylight dredging operations east of Bonner Bridge at Oregon Inlet and is expected to be on site through 25 April, 2010. The dredge maintains bridge watch on VHF channels 13 and 16 for any concerned traffic.

B. The ACOE dredge MERRITT has begun daylight dredging operations at New River Inlet and will be on site until 10 April, 2010. The dredge maintains bridge watch on VHF channels 13 and 16 for any concerned traffic.

C. The ACOE dredge SNELL is currently working east of the Navigation Span of Bonner Bridge, Oregon Inlet conducting channel maintenance during daylight hours only. The dredge will be on site through 25 April, 2010 and maintains constant bridge watch and monitors VHF channels 13 and 16 for traffic transiting Bonner Bridge.

NC: New River Firing Exercises

The Commanding General, Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, has advised that the area in the Atlantic Ocean between a point approximately 4.5 miles east of Bogue Inlet to a point approximately 10.0 miles southwest of New River Inlet, North Carolina, within the existing danger zone (depicted as 334.440) as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11543, will be hazardous to navigation because of field firing exercises during the periods and times listed below. Firing will be to 3 miles seaward. Vessels are urged to avoid the above area during the periods stated except for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, where mariners traveling through this area can expect a delay of about one hour during the above times. Range Control Boats, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina monitor Channel 16 VHF-FM (156.8 MHz) and the working Channel 82 VHF-FM (161.725 MHz).
The restricted areas in New River, as shown on National Ocean Service Chart 11542, will be closed to navigation because of firing exercises during the following periods:

Jacksonville Sector Sunrise to Sunset - daily.
Farnell Bay Sector Sunrise to Sunset - daily.
Traps Bay Sector Sunrise to Sunset - daily.
Stone Bay Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight - daily.
Stone Creek Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight - daily.
Grey Point Sector 12:01 a.m. to Midnight- daily.

Ship operations consisting of landing craft, amphibious vehicles, and helicopters will be conducted in the Onslow Beach operating area and all
sectors of New River from 12:01 a.m. to Midnight- daily. Range Control Boats, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina monitor Channel
16 VHF-FM (156.8 MHz) and the working Channel 82 VHF-FM (161.725 MHz).
Charts: 11542 & 11543.

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19 March 2010

GA: St. Andrews Sound - alternate route

If travelling the AIWW and you want to avoid St. Andrews sound and the Cumberland River, the 2010 Waterway Guide, Atlantic ICW Edition describes a 15 mile-long alternate route that avoids the direct crossing. It is described in detail on page 384. Depts according to a March 2009 Corps of Engineers survey are in the vicinity of 5 to 6 1/2 at mean low water. A recent report by Geoff and Pepper Holmes aboard Rosetta, a 42 Grand Banks confirms these depths with the exception that at marker "A8" the depth was 4 1/2 at low tide.

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16 March 2010

NC: Ocracoke Inlet, shoaling

Shoaling to a depth of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Ocracoke Inlet Channel Lighted Buoy 16 and extending to Teaches Hole Channel Lighted Buoy 22.

Wrightsville Beach, US 74 Bridge, AIWW mile 283.1, closure

This from the most recent Local Notice To Mariners from the Fifth Coast Guard District.

"Mariners are advised to use caution when approaching the US-74 Bridge, mile 283.1, over the AIWW at Wrightsville Beach. The bridge will be closed to navigation on Sunday, March 21, 2010 from 06:30 a.m. through 07:30 a.m. for a marathon."

If you're on the water, sleep in!

NC: Bogue Inlet, shoaling

Shoaling to a depth of approximately 2.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Bogue Inlet Lighted Buoy 5. and approximately 1.0 foot in the vicinity of Bogue Inlet Lighted Buoy 8. Mariners are urged to use caution when transiting the area.
Chart: 11541.

GA: Little Mud River, AIWW mile 653.0 to 656.4, cruiser report

Between markers R190 and R198 at half tide we saw mostly 10 ft. but sometimes 8.5 feet in mid channel. Therefore at low tide expect that there may be as little as 4 feet.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

NC: Hatteras Inlet, shoaling

Shoaling to a depth of approximately 5.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Hatteras Inlet Lighted Buoy 2 and Hatteras Inlet Lighted Buoy 4 and shoaling to a depth of 5.5 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Hatteras Inlet Buoy 10C. Mariners are urged to use caution when transiting these areas during periods of low water and exercise caution during other tidal periods. Chart: 11555.

GA: Cumberland Dividings, AIWW mile 700.0 to 705.0, cruiser report

Between markers R50 andR66 at low tide we saw nothing less than 6 feet from 59A to 63A. At the sharp turn near 60 and 60A the chart is incorrect. Follow the markers and not the chart.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

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03 March 2010

SC/GA: Port Royal Sound to Cumberland Sound, lack of maintenance funds

Ed Note: This notice was originally posted by the Corps of Engineers in 2003. It is still in affect today and points out the issues of not having budgeted funds for dredging.

Due to the limited commercial use of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway between Port Royal Sound, South Carolina (Mile 552) and Cumberland Sound, Georgia (Mile 713), the Savannah District will not receive funds to maintain the waterway to the authorized depths. The District will monitor the conditions of the waterway and publish quarterly condition reports. Mariners are to use extreme caution when transiting the waterway
until further notice.
Ref: LNM 48/03 through 08/10

Waterway Guide publishes the channel surveys when they become available.

........................................................................................................................

24 February 2010

NC: New River Inlet, AIWW mile 227.6, dredging

The dredge WILCO will be conducting dredging operations in the AIWW at New River Inlet from 17 February until 15 April, 2010. The vessels PROUD MARY and ANN KAY will be onscene. The dredge and assisting vessels will monitor VHF-FM Channels 13, 16 & 79. A floating and submerged pipeline will traverse southerly from the AIWW at New River Inlet crossing and then along the west shoreline to the New Topsail Inlet disposal area.The pipeline will be lighted in accordance with Coast Guard regulations. Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week.

NC: Cape Fear River, temporary nav aid relocation

On or about 10 March, 2010 the following aids to navigation will be temporarily relocated to facilitate dredging in the Cape Fear River:
A. Cape Fear River Entrance Channel Lighted Buoy 8 (LLNR 30350) to 33-50-27.060N, 078-01-39.960W.
B. Cape Fear River Entrance Channel Lighted Buoy 9 (LLNR 30355) to 33-51-15.360N, 078-01-37.500W.
C. Cape Fear River Entrance Channel Lighted Buoy 10 (LLNR 30360) to 33-51-11.220N, 078-01-24.840W.
D. Cape Fear River Entrance Lighted Buoy 25 (LLNR 30530) to 33-57-15.900N, 077-57-36.360W.
E. Cape Fear River Entrance Lighted Buoy 25A (LLNR 30531) to 33-57-32.340N, 077-57-22.800W.

........................................................................................................................

12 February 2010

SC: ICW Miles 552.0 to 576.0, channel conditions

The following ICW channel depth information was taken directly from a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Savannah District report dated February 11, 2010. The channel is divided into the West Qtr (Red), Center Line Channel, and East Qtr (Green). East and West Quarter survey lines are measured 45 feet off the centerline of the channel. Depths are given for each section in feet, mlw. Only those areas on the main route that are less than the project depth of 12 feet are listed. 

  
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. 

ICW, Mile 572.2 to 572.6, Walls Cut, R42 to R44
Depths are 9.0' MLW between R42 and R44.

ICW, Mile 572.6 to 573.3, Wright River, R44 to R48
Depths are 10.0' MLW between R44 and R48.

GA: ICW miles 576.0 to 713.0, channel conditions

The following ICW channel depth information was taken directly from a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Savannah District report dated February 12, 2010. The channel is divided into the West Qtr (Red), Center Line Channel, and East Qtr (Green). East and West Quarter survey lines are measured 45 feet off the centerline of the channel. Depths are given for each section in feet, mlw. Only those areas on the main route that are less than the project depth of 12 feet are listed. 


ICW, Mile 576.0 to 576.4, Elba Cut, R2 to R4
Depths are 2.5' MLW red quarter, 5.0' MLW center channel, 10.0' MLW green quarter.

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.

ICW, Mile 579.5 to 580.8, Causton Bluff, G25 to R30
Depths are 6.0' MLW red quarter, 9.0' MLW center channel, 9.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 580.0 to 582.8, Thunderbolt, R30 to G35
Depths are 8.0' MLW red quarter, 11.0' MLW center channel, 12.0' MLW green quarter

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.

ICW, Mile 591.0 to 594.0, Skidaway Narrows, G53 to G71
Depths are 12.0' MLW red quarter, 12.0' MLW center channel, 10.5' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 594.0 to 597.0, Burnside River, G71 to G79
Depths are 10.5' MLW center, 11.0' MLW center channel, 11.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 597.0 to 601.4, Vernon River, G79 to G87
Depths are 10.0' MLW in all sections.

ICW, Mile 601.4 to 602.4, Hells Gate, G87 to R92
Depths are 7.0' MLW red quarter, 6.0' MLW center channel, 5.0' MLW green quarter

ICW, Mile 623.9 to 629.3, Johnson Creek, G125 to G133
Depths are 10.0' MLW red quarter, 11.0' MLW center channel, 9.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 639.0 to 640.0, Front River, G151 to G153
Depths are 10.0' MLW red quarter, 12.0' MLW center channel, 11.0' MLW green quarter

ICW, Mile 640.0 to 642.9, Creighton Narrows, G153 to G157
Depths are 7.0' MLW red quarter, 9.0' MLW center channel, 3.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 642.9 to 648.2, Old Teakettle Creek, G157 to G175
Depths are 11.0' MLW.

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.

ICW, Mile 651.4 to 653.0, Rockedundy River, R182 to R190
Depths are 6.5' MLW red quarter, 6.5' MLW center channel, 6.5' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 653.0 to 656.4, Little Mud River, R190 to R198
Depths are 2.0' MLW red quarter, 3.0' MLW center channel, 2.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 656.4 to 660.1, Altamaha Sound, R198 to G213
Depths are 5.0' MLW red quarter, 5.0' MLW center channel, 7.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 660.1 to 661.9, Buttermilk Sound, G213 to vicinity DM216A
Depths are 11.0' MLW red quarter, 11.5' MLW center channel, 12.0' MLW green quarter.

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.

ICW, Mile 680.9 to 685.9, Jekyll Creek, R 2 to G25
Depths are 0.5' MLW red quarter, 4.0' MLW center channel, 3.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 685.9 to 687.1, G25 to G29.
Depths are 11.0' MLW red quarter, 10.5' MLW center channel, 10.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 700.0 to 705.0, Cumberland Dividings, R50 to R66
Depths are 8.0' MLW red quarter, 11.0' MLW center channel, 12.0' MLW green quarter.

ICW, Mile 705.0 to 708.0, Cumberland Sound, R66 to R80
Depths are 8.0' MLW red quarter, 8.0' MLW center channel and 9.0' MLW green quarter. 

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05 February 2010

NC: Bogue Inlet, severe shoaling

NOTE: Waterway Guide does not recommend the use of this inlet.

Shoaling to a depth of 1.0 feet MLW has been reported in the vicinity of Bogue Inlet Lighted Buoy 8 and Bogue Inlet Lighted Buoy 10.

........................................................................................................................

31 January 2010

NC: Alligator River, AIWW mile 80.0-82.0, channel report

The channel has changed and remains incorrect on most charts
& chips. Use binoculars to follow by the number, however the numbers
on the daymarks are faded and difficult to read. At MM 80, the channel
doglegs to the west around one buoy, new chart G-3,and is no longer
straight. About MM 81, immediately south of G-7 and R-8, the channel
curves to the west, between two shoals. If you try to go straight, you
will most likely find the shoals. Go slowly through this area.
Following this path, we find 9-12 feet in what we now call "the AH of
the Alligator."

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Bear Creek Inlet, AIWW mile 233.6, channel report

MM 233.6 Bear Inlet was a bear. We bumped three times when passing by
this inlet, staying on the green side, about one hour before high tide
(6 ft. draft).

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: North Browns Inlet, AIWW mile 236.3, channel report

MM 236.3 North Browns Inlet. Near high tide, we saw 14 ft. or better
through this area.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Browns Inlet (South), AIWW mile 236.3, channel report

MM 283.3. Browns Inlet (South). Jan. 23, 2010 was being dredged. We
saw 8 ft. at high tide where they had not dredged.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: AIWW mile 210.0, channel report

MM 210.0 one hour past low tide, the most shallow water we had was
13.6 ft, passing about 25 ft. off R-8.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: New River Inlet, AIWW mile 245.8, channel report

MM 245.8 South side of New River Inlet. We bumped in channel between
RN 74 & 76; however plenty of water 50-75 ft. off of these buoys.
Don't "hug" them!

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Mason Inlet, AIWW mile 280.4, channel report

MM 280.4 Mason Inlet. At low tide on the red side, the minimum water
depth was 8.4 ft.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Masonboro Inlet, AIWW mile 285.0, channel report

Masonboro Inlet. Keep to green side. We ran hard aground 2 hrs. past
low tide on the north side of the inlet, on the red side. Hugged green
can and found water.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade
6' draft

NC: Carolina Beach Inlet, AIWW mile 293.9, channel report

MM 293.9 Carolina Beach Inlet. Stayed 3 ft. off G-155 in channel and
saw 8.5 or better, 2 hours before high tide. The remainder of this
area was 10.8 or better.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

........................................................................................................................

23 January 2010

NC: AIWW mile 233.6, Sanders Creek, shoaling

We favored the green side at "G-55" within an hour of high tide and bumped three times. Our draft is 6'3".

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Browns Inlet, AIWW mile 237.0 - 238.7, dredge report

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.

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

NC: Bogue Sound, Spooner Creek, AIWW mile 210.0

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".

Sarah Southworth
s/v Moonlight Serenade

........................................................................................................................

22 January 2010

SC: Lady's Island Bridge, AIWW Mile 536.0, schedule change

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.

/S/
C. MARCY
Commander, U.S. Coast Guard
Chief, Prevention Department

SC: AIWW, Charleston to South Santee River, dredging

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.

........................................................................................................................

21 January 2010

NC: Southport Boat Basin, dredging

The dredge KRISTI JOE will be conducting dredging operations in Southport Boat Basin adjacent to the AIWW from 20 January until 20 February, 2010. A lighted floating and submerged pipeline will traverse south/southeasterly from the boat basin to the USACE Upland Disposal Site. The
dredge and assisting vessel BETTY LOU will monitor VHF-FM channels 13, 16 and 79. All vessels requested to contact the dredge prior to passing.

NC: AIWW dredging between Bear and Brown Inlets, miles 235-238

The dredge WILCO will be conducting dredging operations in AIWW between Bear and Brown Inlets from 22 January until 19 February, 2010. A lighted floating and submerged pipeline will traverse the south shoreline between the inlets to the Onslow Beach Disposal Area. The dredge and assisting vessels PROUD MARY and ANN KAY will monitor VHF-FM channels 13, 16 and 79. All vessels are requested to contact the dredge prior to passing.

........................................................................................................................

16 January 2010

SC: AIWW Mile 420.0, South Santee River to Charleston, dredging

Dredging operations will begin approximately January 16, 2009 in the AIWW in the vicinity of WB Daybeacon 122 through WB Daybeacon 122. The dredge BRUNSWICK will operate 24/7 and monitor VHF channels 13 and 16. The work is expected to be completed April 15, 2010.

GA: Little Mud River, AIWW Mile 653.0 to 656.4, shoaling report

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.

Samuel D. Hanft
S/V Stella Maris
Nauticat 36

GA: Jekyll Island, AIWW Mile 683.0, severe shoaling report

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.

Samuel D. Hanft
S/V Stella Maris
Nauticat 36

GA: Cumberland River, AIWW Mile 703.5, shoaling report

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 gounded 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.

Samuel D. Hanft
S/V Stella Maris
Nauticat 36

........................................................................................................................

09 January 2010

NC: Sunset Beach Bridge, ICW Mile 337.9, construction zone update

An article in TheSunTimes.com reports that English Construction superintendent Mark Hackney said that work is on schedule for completion of this project by fall 2010. Plans are to have the new bridge open by the end of summer and then begin removal of the old pontoon bridge. The NCDOT states that crews will begin setting girders within the next few weeks which will require partial day closures of the ICW.

Waterway Guide will report on the closure times when they become available.

To see pictures of the construction click here.

Listed below is the Notice to Mariners issued in November 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.

........................................................................................................................

07 January 2010

GA: Cumberland Sound, shoaling

Shoaling has been reported in the vicinity of Cumberland River Daybeacon 51.

........................................................................................................................

03 January 2010

NC: ICW Mile 330.0 Shallotte Inlet

12/24/09

S/V ACT III sailing south passing "G81" 30 minutes before high tide left R "80A" about 20 ft. to starboard and never saw shoaling to less than eleven feet.

Bill Raley and Heidi Berger aboard ACT III

10/28/09

All the floaties are back on station, it's all good for now. The shallowest
spot was 9'MLW between R80A and R82. From mid channel at Daymarker R80,
it's almost a straight line to G83 if the floaties are on station.

Pascal Gademer

........................................................................................................................

02 January 2010

NC: Sunset Beach Bridge, AIWW Mile 337.9, shoaling report

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

........................................................................................................................

30 December 2009

NC: Carolina Beach Inlet, AIWW Mile 293.9, shoaling

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

........................................................................................................................

17 December 2009

SC: Stono River Inlet, nav aids discontinued

Waterway Guide has never recommended the use of this inlet due to its shallow depths and shoaling characteristics. We are posting the following District 7 LNM 50/09 for informational purposes only.

Due to severe shoaling Stono River Inlet Buoy 2 (LLNR 3707), -Buoy 2A (LLNR 3708), -Buoy 3 (LLNR 3710), and -Buoy 4 (LLNR 3715) have been removed. All mariners are advised to use extreme caution when transiting the inlet.

........................................................................................................................

14 December 2009

AIWW Mile 295.0, Snows Cut, dredging

Dredging to project depth has been completed.

........................................................................................................................

07 December 2009

SC: AIWW Mile 343.0, Little River Inlet - Corps of Engineers Survey

A Corps of Engineers Survey dated November 24, 2009 indicates shoaling in the channel. Also, several buoys, not shown on charts, have been set.

Entering the linet from the sea buoy proceed to the entrance markers on the ends of the twin jetties. Once past these markers you will pass Red #4, Green #5 and Red#6 whcih are not shown on the charts. Depths according to the survey are greater than 10 feet MLLW. Once past beacons # 7 and #8 you will pass Green #9, not shown on the chart. Depths according to the survey remain greater than 10 feet MLLW until just prior to R#14. At this point they drop to 7-9 feet MLLW. At R#14 favor the red side of the channel until past R#20. From here to the AIWW depths are 7.5 feet MLLW or greater. Watch for shoaling on the red side as you pass R#22.

........................................................................................................................

06 December 2009

SC: ICW Mile 452.5, shoaling update

Depth 15 feet between R100 and G101 at high tide.

Richard Ross
Chez nous

Original post of 12/11/07 below.

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".

SC: AIWW Mile 497.0, Dawho River, nav aid location

Marker G95 was not in its charted position. Believe the marker and not the chart.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

SC: ICW Mile 490.0, Wadmalaw Sound, shoaling

Depths of 8.6 feet or greater from G87 to G89 at mid-Tide.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

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.

SC: AIWW mile 448.0, shoaling update

Depth 13.6 feet between marker 84 and 86, and 14.5 feet from marker 89 to 90 at high tide.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

Original post of 8/1/09 below.

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.

NC: AIWW Mile 295.0, Loran and VORTAC Interference

The Loaran towers and VORTAC in this area caused both of our GPS untis to become inaccurate.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

SC: AIWW Mile 415.0, Minim Creek

Depth of 7.5 feet at mid-tide near G5 and mostly 11.5 feet to 13.7 feet to FR12. 

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

SC: AIWW Mile 418.0, North Santee River

Found as little as 6.8 feet at mid-tide near R18.

Richard Ross
Chez Nous

........................................................................................................................

04 December 2009

NC: Carolina Beach Crossing, ICW Mile 294.0, shoaling

I hit bottom crossing Carolina Beach about 60 ft channelward of green can #155 about 1 hr before low tide. That would make it about 4ft at low tide. Favor the red side on the channel in this area.

Jack Dozier
M/V Waterway Guide Lady

........................................................................................................................

21 November 2009

NC: ICW Mile 320.0, Lockwoods Folly, cruising report

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
Ron
s/v Lastdance

........................................................................................................................

17 November 2009

NC: Wrightsville Beach, Motts Channel, shoaling report

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?

Ron Ieva
s/v Lastdance

........................................................................................................................

13 November 2009

NC: ICW Mile 210.0, potential dangerous shoaling

Waterway Guide has 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.

........................................................................................................................

04 November 2009

GA: ICW Mile 602.0, Hell Gate

Even though it's been dredged, there is still some skinny water (7 to 8'
MLW), about 120' off, and slightly south of G89.

Pascal Gademer

GA: ICW Mile 607.0 Florida Passage

Had about 12' MLW and the dredge Cherokee was working there.

Pascal Gademer

GA: ICW Mile 625.0, Johnson Creek at Cattle Pen

There is a short hump at 9' MLW abeam the creek, no issues whatsoever elsewhere.

Pascal Gademer

GA: ICW Mile 642.0, Creighton Narrows

Some 7' MLW spots along the way but no real issues.

Pascal Gademer

GA: ICW Mile 655.0, Little Mud River

Most of the the straight section between R192 and G193 had about 8' to 9'
MLW on ICW line, except for a slight hump to 6 to 7' off Crooked creek.
Approaching the bend, southbound, it shoals up a little to around 6' MLW
then back to 7' MLW in the bend, slightly on the green side (outside), then
8' off R194 (100' away). On the south end of LMR, I aimed at a point exactly in the middle between
G195 and the range marker., then made a sharp turn on the range. This gave
me 7.5 to 8' MLW off G195 then increasing to 12' on the range.
On previous trips, I looked for better depth on the R or G side at the south
end, always finding less water. splitting in the middle of the G and range
markers, then getting on the range without cutting or overshooting the
corner seems to be the best option.

GA: ICW Mile 685.0, Jekyll Creek

G13 to R16, 11' MLW, on the red side of the ICW line.
G17, 10' MLW on the range, then 9' 1/2 way to G19 decreasing to 8' before G19
G19, 7', stay mid channle, do not over shoot the kink to port. depth
increase quickly to 9' MLW and hold to 9' past Jekyll Wharf and 12' by the bridge.
It's still on my must have high tide list due to my 6 1/2 draft, but if you
stay centered, it's not that bad for most boats.

Pascal Gademer

GA: ICW Mile 695.0, Cumberland Dividings

Following the markers (not the chart as 62A is shown in the wrong spot,
about 1/4 mile too far north) I found a 4' MLW spot about 100' north of R60A
following a line passing about 50' from 60A. Not sure if there is more
water further away from R60A, there might be.

Pascal Gademer

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02 November 2009

GA: ICW Mile 575, Fields Cut

There is still the well known very short hump across the channel at the northern entrance, about 6' MLW 100' south of the point on the west side. On the south side, there is a 100' long section around 7' MLW just south of piling on the east side, before R50. Bottom line, if you draw over 5' run that section at mid-tide.

Pascal Gademer

SC: ICW Mile 497.0, Dawho River

Some spotsat 6 1/2 MLW between R1110 and the two green cans G111 and G113. Since we had pletny of tide I tried looking on either side of centerline but did not find anything better than that. Same between G115 and R116, following the ICW line towards G115.

Pascal Gademer

SC: ICW Mile 503.0, Watts Cut

Some spots at 7' MLW.

Pascal Gademer

SC: ICW Mile 511, Fenwick Cut

8' MLW in some areas on ICW line.

Pascal Gademer

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31 October 2009

SC: ICW Mile 430.0 McClellanville

This strectch continues to be an issue. I didn't get into Jeremy Creek (dredged earlier this year) but the ICW south of Jeremy creek has spots as low a 6' MLW off R40 and 7' by the creek south of R37. Most of the stretch was 8' to 10' MLW on the center line or about 100; off the greens. If you draw over 5' play the tides.

Pascal Gademer

SC: ICW Mile approx 459.0

Even though the area north of the Ben Sawyer Bridge was dredged earlier this year, it seems shoaling is returning. I found some 8 1/2' MLW around G119, off "Inlet Creek". Not a problem yet but could be a spot to watch for in the spring.

Pascal Gademer

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30 October 2009

NC: ICW Mile 293.5, Carolina Beach Inlet, shoaling

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".

NC: ICW Mile 45.1, Long Point, shoaling report

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.

Frank Coleman

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28 October 2009

NC: ICW Mile 80.0, Alligator River

Everytime I enter/exit this river I wonder how so many folks run intro trouble here. I don't think it deserves a spot on the ICW hall of shame/troublespot page and here is how you are sure to make it.

Wouthbound, split R8/G7 in the middle, then proceed directly towards FL R10, or towards a point between FL R10 and G9. Simple, and you will leave the shoal to starboard and never see less than 10'.

Pascal Gademer

NC: ICW Mile 229.0, Swansboro/Bogue Inlet

There is plenty of water here, at least 12' MLW. However, two things can confuse people.

Inlet aid R20, located past G45 can be confused for an ICW marker if you don't look at the number with binoculars and see that there is no ICW marking. After FL G45, leave that floating R20 to port (southbound).

Floating G45A is much closer to the red side than you would expect (about 100/150' from the docks). Do not assume that it is off station and pass between G45A and the docks. In the channel you will find at least 12' MLW.

Pascal Gademer

NC: ICW Mile 238.0, Browns Inlet Crossing

North of G61 the real center of the channel is not where it is on the chart. It is further to the green side. This is another case of where you need to reply on your eyes and the actual shorelines and not the line on the plotter. My plotter track showed me to be almost on the red shorline, however, I was in fact in mid-channel enjoying plenty of water....at least 9' to 10' MLW. Further down the channel is wll marked and plenty deep if you pass midway between the floaters (60 and 61A) then bear slightly to the red side and pass halfway between G63 and the opposite/red shoreline.

Pascal Gademer

NC: ICW Mile 246.0, New River Inlet

I came through a little after high tide and after dark, armed with the September COE survey display on my laptop. Turns out it was useless on the north side of the inlet since it doesn't show any data on the green side from 72A. In the sping I passed through in the middle of the night and had to poke through three times before finding water on the north side. This time around I tried following the COE survey which shows a narrow channel between 72A and 72B. I didn't find it. I stopped when getting 8' on the sounder which considering the tides was about 6' MLW. I backed out and poked about 100' to port, which is outside the COE survey. I made it through with about 9' MLW. There may be enough water on the red side if you draw under 6'. Looking at the survey it is a very narrow line of deeper water.

On the south side of the inlet it was a little easier and pretty much as described on the survey. I came upon a large fishing float and swung around it, otherwise it is straightforward, with 9' to 10' MLW minimum.

Pascal Gademer

NC: ICW Mile 293.5, Carolina Beach Inlet

This is starting to be a real trouble spot with shoaling causing issues,
even though it was dredged last year. I've seen reports of grounded vessels
and heard a sailboat aground by R154 an hour before i went thru, on a rising
2/3 tide. The shallowest spots were 6' MLW between R154A and G155, then 5'
MLW about 25' abeam of G154A. There might have been a little more water
further away from G154A but i wasn't going to survey the area with a 6 1/4
draft as i was following another boat drawing 6' and he made it fine, i just
followed... Everywhere else was fine, with most readings in the 12 to 14'
MLW before and after G154A

Pascal Gademer

NC: ICW Mile 295.0, Snows Cut

This area is starting to shoal up although still plenty of water for most. Worst
spots were 8' MLW between G161A and R162 then between the cut and Cape Fear
River, I saw 9' MLW jsut north of G167. A dredge was working there so
hopefully it will be fixed soon.

Pascal Gademer

NC, ICW Mile 321.0, Lockwoods Folly

No issues there... never saw less than 12' MLW., staying more or less mid
channel. the only issue was about 25 small boats anchored on the edge or in
the channel, some blocking the way. I advised USCG station Oak Island...

Pascal Gademer

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19 October 2009

GA: ICW Mile 704, shoaling and a confusing chart

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

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12 August 2009

NC: Dismal Swamp Canal mile 50, pilings

I sail out of Deltaville, VA, and, on Monday, June 29th, my 30' catamaran sailboat sustained a hard grounding on a bunch of submerged pilings in 9 feet of water just north of Elizabeth City NC (and after I had honored the mark by at least 50 yards!!). It took a good Samaritan and numerous tries in his Grady White with 400 hp to pull me off. Needless to say, I was horrified and mortified. Luckily the bottom checked out fine (a $350 expense) and no one was injured, but I am certain from my mishap that the #9 mark is insufficient to warn other through-boaters. I've made a series of attempts to notify the U.S. Coast Guard and the administrators of Elizabeth City about this hazard (apparently the pilings are only submerged under certain conditions of sustained high water), but they have remained indifferent and preferred to blame me. I'm a big fan of the Waterway Guide and thought about submitting a piece telling my tale. However, it seems to me that your articles are characteristically up-beat, and I suspect that my story would not be a fit. I have learned valuable lessons from the ordeal (it is more involved than I have so far recounted), and I would like to encourage others not to repeat my mistakes.

Please Advise.

Thank you, Norman M. Camp

Ed Note - we have posted Mr. Camp's report just as we received it.

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17 June 2009

NC: AIWW 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.

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17 April 2009

GA: AIWW Mile 694.0, Floyd Creek, alternate to St. Andrews Sound

For those Loopers North bound on the ICW that are just getting into Georgia @ MM 694 you'll find Floyd Creek on your port side. If the winds have been kicking it up and it appears St Andrews Sound might be less then pleasant you have an alternative for a calm ride, as spelled out in Skipper Bob. We entered the Creek and headed NW, leaving the red buoy's to our port and green to starboard while in the Creek. If you go, go just before the high tide. We were half way through at an hour past high tide and never saw anything less then 8 feet and most was 12 to 18 feet. When you exit in to the Satilla River head NW and enter into @ G A17, follow creek and exit at G A5 in to the Little Satilla River and proceed W to Jekyll Creek and Jekyll Island where you rejoin the ICW. This route is 5 miles longer but worth the time if St Andrews Sound is sloppy or worse.

Jim & Lisa Favors - Kismet
Fathom 40

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23 January 2009

GA: ICW miles 568.5-569.9, Ramshorn Creek

From Marshall Gaffney aboard Capital Ranger on January 18, 2009.

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.