I may lose my job, so question on intercostal?

[Doghouse]

Looks like I have a strong chance of being part of a New Years layoff.

I have enough to get by for a little while, but realy need to get away.
I was thinking of making a run down the intercoastal through the dismal swamp and as far as our will takes us.

Yes, this idea is a little crazy. Here are the details of my general equiptment. I am looking for suggestions of what I may need between the dismal swamp and say carolina beach.

We have a 27' sail 3.5' draft, dingy and motor, Chartplotter with charts to FL.
We have done weekend trips, but not longer than 3-4 days.
I am installing a refrigerator this weekend so no need for ice.
We have heat on board when docked.
2 people and a dog.
TOP speed is 6 knots, cruising is 5.

Any suggestions of places to stay?
Any areas we should watch out for?

[S/V Elusive]

How do you intend to power your refrigerator? Following that line of thought, how do you intend to recharge any batteries you have?

Those are just two simple questions, there would be a lot more if you were a bit more specific about how long and the reason for this trip (saving on rent? ...???).

Of course, with that said, I think that ANY reason to go cruising is a good one.

[Hud3]

Sorry to hear you might lose your job, but you're smart to look on the bright side. Heading south could be just the thing! Here are some links you might find useful:

Skipper Bob's "Anchorages Along the ICW"
Skipper Bob

Blaine & Janet Parks list of good cruising guides
The Crew's Recommended Cruising Guides

Tom Dove is an expert on the ICW:
Tom Dove Home Page

With your draft, you shouldn't have any problems with water depths. Just keep tabs on the weather, and make sure you have really good ground tackle.

[Doghouse]

Lenght of time is undetermined. I have a small generator, so we will be bringing that.

WHY? After what has been going on, I need to reconstruct and find a new outlook.

[rebel heart]

Do it. Wait for all the lights to be green and you'll be waiting your entire life.

[Sunspot Baby]

Last I heard the Dismal Swamp was closed because of low water. Other than that, go for it.

George

[GordMay]

According to Mel Neal - East Coast Alerts (BoatUS) November 15, 2007
http://my.boatus.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=61700&get=last

“The Dismal Swamp Canal is closed. The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, Route 1, through the Great Bridge Locks at Chesapeake, Virginia, will be open 24 hours per day, seven days a week. Operators will monitor Channel 13 VHF-FM. For further information, about the operational status of the locks on the Dismal Swamp Canal call the Corps of Engineers in Norfolk at (757) 201-7500 and press option 3”

According to Ted Stehle, Cruising & News Editor, Waterway Guide
Waterway Guide

“Due to lack of rain and subsequent low water levels in Lake Drummond and the
Dismal Swamp, beginning September 24, 2007, and until further
notice, the locks at Deep Creek, VA and South Mills, NC, will be operated
only at 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., 7 days a week. The draw bridges
adjacent to these locations will be operated in coordination with the locks.
Chart: 12207.”

[High Cotton]

Originally Posted by Doghouse

Lenght of time is undetermined. I have a small generator, so we will be bringing that.

WHY? After what has been going on, I need to reconstruct and find a new outlook.

Sounds like a plan to me............
I retired once and began a new business, now I'm "2nd guessing" if I made the correct decision........ probably not..........
so I understand you wanting to get away... JUST DO IT!
ICW is a beautiful trip!

[sluissa]

I say go for it.

[JJD]

It is going to be cold. You need a heat source to keep cabin warm. With limited funds you will need to anchor out most of the time. Good luck, go for it.

[Doghouse]

Thanks for all the tips, We are currently watching the weather to make sure this will work. I have picked up a cruising guide and will be doing that research.

Any suggested marinas along the way to Morhead city? Or would it be better to spend a day or two in Oriental?

[Kanani]

Originally Posted by JJD

It is going to be cold. You need a heat source to keep cabin warm. With limited funds you will need to anchor out most of the time. Good luck, go for it.

Boy.....I 2nd this one..

[rtbates]

Originally Posted by Doghouse

Thanks for all the tips, We are currently watching the weather to make sure this will work. I have picked up a cruising guide and will be doing that research.

Any suggested marinas along the way to Morhead city? Or would it be better to spend a day or two in Oriental?

having been to both I highly recommend Oriental..Look up Andy Denmark. Just go to the M&M Cafe and ask. Tell him Randy from Austin with the Cape Dory 25D sent you. He has a beautiful place on Broad creek and is a great guy and an unlimited resource. I also liked Beaufort,NC..

BUT, given the time of year I'd say get as far south as quickly has humanly possible...Too bad you're not in south Texas, it's 80 today!!

[psteele235]

Things happen for a reason - Carpe Diem - Sieze the Day and have fun!

[Harriet]

Kettlewell does a flip chart book of the intracoastal waterway that is excellent - shows the anchorages, bridges, etc. Oriental has a free dock right in town that can accommodate two boats. It's a great deal when it's available. Also, there is free dockage at Great Bridge. We rarely use marinas in the ICW as there are so many places to drop a hook safely.