East coast marinas

[Sailsarefull]

I am planning on sailing down the east coast in a Cheoy Lee Luders 36 from Newport to Jacksonville area and eventually further south. Will be atleast two possibly three total onboard. My goal is to take our time, hit several ports down to Norfolk. Then take the ICW to Morehead City to get around Cape Hatteras. From Morehead I would like to go back out and continue down to Florida. Not in a hurry but my thoughts were to be out for 24-48 hours at a stretch. Have spoken to some that did this and they indicated I could stay within 10-15 miles of the coastline for much of the way. If somebody has done that, I would love to connect and talk about your experience, what marinas you especially liked, didn't like. Any advice is greatly appreciated as I am getting my boating legs back under me. Spending this summer cruising around Newport,RI area, working on the boat and ensuring all is up to speed.
Thank you very much for your experience and input. John