Winter ICW Advice Needed

[Winebargain]

Hello, have either of you guys set off yet. We have just arrived from the UK after buying a boat in Annapolis. We are just stocking up on groceries and bedding for our new boat, (used but new to us) before we set off, hopefully on Tuesday heading down towards Florida. So anyone travelling that way we would love to meet up with. Any guidance on the route to take would be greatly appreciated too.

[capt-couillon]

Hey Winebargain... Left Deltaville Fri the 8th, laying up a couple days in Elizabeth City to wait out the weather before crossing the sound. Northers are kicking up (typical for this time of year) and it's been blowing half to full gale since Sunday.

Dismal Swamp route was well protected but shallow this time of year (6-8ft) with a couple of lumps... With the North East gales yesterday, water blowing out of the river made the first 10th mile out of South Mills lock scary shallow, but ok once you hit Turner Cut.

No depth issues on the Virginia Cut route but Curituck Sound was forecast at 5-7' yesterday which means I would have had to layup somewhere less interesting than E' City. All depends on weather, draft, and expectations...

Keep an eye out for the Solitaire as you head down. I will be traveling slow, and anchored up most nights. (S/V Solitaire Sailing Off The Edge | Home)

Have a good trip and dress warm

[Winebargain]

Originally Posted by TOYM1

I'm hoping to be leaving on the ICW trip from Rosehaven, MD on December 1, weather permitting, If you would like a traveling partner. I have a Gemini 3200, The "Ladybug". Its always helpful having another boat traveling with you. This is my first down the ICW. If interested, Contact: Dave E-mail- dallwood9252@comcast.net

Hi There, How is your trip going. We are eager to start our Adventure. We were hoping to leave today for our first day out, making our way to Solomons Island for our first trip. However, the Marina advised us to leave until Thursday due to weather conditions. So fingers crossed for Thursday. We are currently at Port Annapolis Marina, and it doesn't actually look that bad to us. We are complete novices so very aprehensive too. Hopefully we will get to meet up with you as we travel. Our destination is Cape Canaveral Florida.