Cape May canal

[edbulmer]

Has anyone taken this and how far can you go on the inside towards Sandy Hook NJ from the Delware-we draw 4 ft.

[Hannah on 'Rita T']

The question is mast height, we are 57 feet and our VHF antenna pings. The canal only cuts off Cape May Point, which has a channel in close to shore but shoals a little way out.

[edbulmer]

I'm on a power boat, I guess it's called the NJ intercoastal. Just wondering if anyone here has done it. I see mostly deep water but a few questionable areas on the chart.

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by edbulmer

I'm on a power boat, I guess it's called the NJ intercoastal. Just wondering if anyone here has done it. I see mostly deep water but a few questionable areas on the chart.

This area changes constantly so my experience may no longer be valid. We did it five years ago with a 4' draft and it was a little tense pushing mud in many areas. Don't think I'd try it again unless they have spent a few dollars on dredging (the day before).

[AnchorageGuy]

Ed, even with a four foot draft. I would suggest making the transit on a rising tide. 4 foot is certainly doable but don't be in a hurry. Stay in the channel and plan your transit accordingly. Between New York and Manasquan you will do the outside. The most problem areas are Atlantic City to Cape May, and that is a short run outside with no concerns or delays. Manasquan to Barnegat is pretty good, Barnegat Bay is very shallow so favor the mainland. Have a look at the current Local Notice To Mariners for updated info. Chuck

[edbulmer]

If it tricky from Cape May to Altantic city I might as well do the whole thing on the outside. That was the area I was hoping to stay inside for. Is it quite a saving time wise to do the Cape May canal and the go out or just go around from the Deleware.

[AnchorageGuy]

Since any outside passage is going to be weather dependent, you may need someplace to wait until the weather window opens. If you have the window as you approach the mouth of the Delaware, go out side and head north. If you will need to wait for weather, then head into the canal and find a marina or anchorage near Cape May and head out the inlet when you are ready. So the answer is, it all depends. Chuck

[edbulmer]

That's what I plan to do. Are there any decent marinas or anchorages to come in at between Cape May and Sandy Hook if the need should arise.

[AnchorageGuy]

Plenty of slips at Atlantic City. Chuck