From Tom Dove’s Intracoastal Waterway guide:
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MILE 462, SC - BEN SAWYER BRIDGE
Monitor VHF 13 and check the morning and evening opening restrictions. The marina just south of the bridge is convenient and friendly while you wait for
repairs to the bridge mechanism. Inlet Creek at mile 461 is a good layover point north of the Ben Sawyer. Watch for shoaling for about a mile north of the bridge. (Crescendo, Freedom)
MILE 464, SC - COOPER RIVER
It might be possible to anchor off the city park under the I-526 fixed bridge. There is a little
dock where one could come in by
dinghy, and there are bathrooms which are open during the day. However, there is a lot of
current in the river and not much shelter from
wind at this point, although there isn't as much
commercial traffic as lower down. There is nothing in the way of
shopping facilities near this park. (Rosalieann)
MILE 469, SC - CHARLESTON HARBOR
Good
anchorages in the Ashley River are adjacent to the USCG, before the Municipal Marina and to port, next to the 55' bridge at the marina. Holding is good, but
current is swift. Both Ashley and Municipal
marinas have
dinghy docks and the municipal marina may have rental moorings, There's a courtesy car for slipholders at Ashley marina. Motel available. Ashley Marina runs an on-demand shuttle bus from about 8am to 9pm, and will take transient tenants to and from the marina, and between
shopping, dining, and tourist spots. (Freedom, Rosalieann, Butter, Dory)
MILE 471, SC - WAPPOO CREEK
15 feet of
water if you stay close to the main shore behind this marshy island (approach from N only) just south of the drawbridge. Strong current but good shelter from
wind. Purple martins keep the bug population under control. Dinghy ashore for easy access to groceries and a bar/grill. The bridge is restricted 0630-0900 on weekdays.(Crescendo, Freedom, Dory)
MILE 472, SC - ELLIOTT CUT
NAVIGATION NOTE
The water really rips through between Wappoo Creek and the Stono River; expect five knots. Try to hit this spot with a favorable current and do give a call on
VHF 13 and 16 before entering; it's hazardous to meet another vessel here. Turbulent water has taken a toll on the sides of the cut, with homes on the shore trying their best to hold their real estate. (Crescendo, Freedom, Luv It)
Anchor between
ICW and Buzzard's Roost marina. Plenty of room. (Windchime)