On our
cruise from
Clear Lake to the Atlantic
ICW our favorite
anchorages were behind Baffle Point off the Bolivar Peninsula, Offatt Bayou, Taylor Bayou,
Adams Bayou,
anchor to the side as tugs may use the
canal, the Calcasieu River, either just off the GIWW or 3 miles up river in the oxbow, the Mermentau River, go about 1.8 miles up the river to a beautiful oxbow, Avery
Canal, Charenton Navigational Canal, Bayou Black, and past
New Orleans we prefer to
anchor just off the GIWW in Blind Rigolets. The
current is strong here so be sure your anchor is well set. There is another anchorage at Rabbit Island but take care where you anchor. There is debris on the bottom.Crossing the
Mississippi Sound leaves you few options.
Anchoring will depend on the
wind strength and direction. In southerlies, you can anchor off the barrier islands. In northerlies,
head for the mainland and find your spot. All of these anchorages will carry at least a 6 foot
draft, all have excellent holding and are well protected from
weather. In some cases you might need to set a stern anchor only to keep you from swinging out into the channel at night. Most all of these waters are used by
commercial vessels of some type. Good luck and have a great trip. Chuck