Southern Approach to Manteo in Roanoke Sound?

[witzgall]

Hi All;

I am working out planning for a two-week cruise this summer. We would like to visit Manteo coming from Ocracoke. Since we cannot squeak under the Old Rt. 64 bridge, we would have to use the souther approach of the Old House Channel. We draw 5'5". For those that have done this route, how are the depths, and what is the pucker factor - assuming the wind/waves are not from the north nor too uncomfortable?

Thanks,
Chris

[camaraderie]

No problem whatsoever. Just stay in the channel and watch where the markers switch sides! You have at least 7 feet at a minimum. The channel into Manteo is also a minimum 7 feet (pay NO attention to the chart 5 ft. notation!! An 8 ft. draft boat goes in and out all the time and I've one it on mine with 6'!) BUT...right at the turn in from the Roanoke Sound channel there is a hump at marker 29C a small green can. Start your turn at marker 30 instead and stay on the GREEN side (to your port) of the Shallowbag bay channel into Manteo until you pass marker #5. It is 54 miles from Ocracoke to Manteo...so get an early start!
Shallowbag Bay Marina is closed and there is no fuel there so if you need fuel you need to stop at Priates Cove Marina just after the 65' bridge and to your port. Manteo Waterfront and Town Marina remains open and has a pump out station.
Send me a PM if you need further help! This may help you:

http://xpda.com/nauticalcharts/12205...0INSET%201.png
Click on any section to enlarge!