ICW Views

The ICW

The 1,090 -mile voyage between Norfolk, Virginia and Miami, Florida that makes up the Intercoastal Waterway, offers boaters a unique opportunity to travel according to seasonal changes, making the Intercoastal Waterway a popular cruise. Skippers can plan their cruise down the Intercoastal Waterway such that it lasts almost any length of time, depending on speed and chosen route. The Intercoastal Waterway, or ICW, is a toll-free channel—part canal, part natural waterway—that stretches for more than 1,000 statute miles from Norfolk, Virginia to Miami, Florida. For the most part, the Intercoastal Waterway waters are sheltered, although a few stretches, such as Albemarle Sound, can be quite rough. The route is profusely marked with daymarks and lights. Occasionally, buoys are used in areas where shifting bottom conditions prevail. The overhead clearance limit is 65 feet maximum. Because several bridges are slightly under spec, boats needing more than 62 feet of clearance may have problems navigating the Intercoastal Waterway. Vessels drawing up to 8 feet can transit most sections of the Intercoastal Waterway, but those drawing more than 6 feet may go around from time to time. Intercoastal Waterway travelers will do well to study and Intercoastal Waterway map and navigation charts ahead of time. A day's plan should include preplanning for bridge openings, schedules for fuel stops, and several alternate stopping places for the night.

On our Way

I sit on the ICW awaiting instructions. Parsons has painted my bottom and moved me.

ICW - Day One

We left Core Creek Marina at ....

I'm Outta Here

Wow, that water feels good. This is the beginning of a five-day trip up the ICW from Beaufort, N.C. to Annapolis, MD.

The trip will take us over 135 miles through the waterways and rivers of North Carolina. We will emerge into the River at Norfolk, Virginia. From there we will proceed up the Bay for over 120 miles to Annapolis, Maryland. There a slip awaits me at the Whitehall Creek Marina.

Work Day

My owners arrived late last night and spent the night on board. It was strange having strangers on board. Who are these people, where did they come from and where are we going? I heard them talking about working on me the next morning. And then taking a trip. A trip!

They've been busy. Sanded my bottom with 80 grit paper and two coats of Interlux Aqua. My engine had been thoroughly serviced by of A1 Diesel, Inc. A thorough cleaning and five days of supply and we are ready to go tomorrow.

My Survey

I have been surveyed by a surveyor. In all a good survey. But there is work to be done. My water tank has a leak, I do not have a legal marine holding tank and my electrics need some attention. But in all, my hull and topsides are dry and strong. My "bones" are good. A little tender-loving-care and I will be shipshape by seasons end.