Pilotage Plan: Carolina Beach to Wrightsville Beach

Embarking on a boat trip from Carolina Beach to Wrightsville Beach presents a fabulous opportunity to explore the beautiful coastline of North Carolina. This route covers roughly 15 nautical miles, weaving through scenic waters while offering practical opportunities for shelter, fun activities, and essential navigational considerations. Here’s your detailed pilotage plan to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Route Overview

The passage between Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach is a delightful short cruise suitable for both novice and experienced boaters. The route primarily navigates along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), known for its typically calmer conditions and shelter from ocean swells, which is particularly valuable if the weather turns unfavorable.

Points of Interest and Shelters

1. Carolina Beach State Park: Begin your journey by appreciating the beauty of Carolina Beach State Park, which is rich in maritime forests and wetlands. This is a perfect spot to dock and hike if you want to stretch your legs before setting off.

2. Masonboro Inlet: As you approach Masonboro Inlet, it's worth mentioning as it can serve as an alternative transit point to the ocean for those who wish to explore the offshore fishing spots or simply enjoy the open sea for a few moments before heading back. However, navigation can be tricky here with shifting shoals, so pay particular attention to the local charts and markers.

3. Masonboro Island: Just south of Masonboro Inlet, Masonboro Island is a pristine barrier island with beautiful sandy beaches perfect for a picnic and exploration. It’s an uninhabited island, so it’s great for those looking to engage with nature—perfect for birdwatching or shell collecting.

4. Wrightsville Beach: The destination itself offers an array of activities—beach sports, shopping, and restaurants. The picturesque Wrightsville Beach Park or the scenic Johnnie Mercer's pier are great options to wind down upon arrival.

Navigational Considerations

The route utilizes the Intracoastal Waterway, marked with buoys and navigational aids, making it relatively straightforward. Here are essential navigation points and considerations:

• Navigational Aids:
Keep an eye out for ICW markers, particularly between markers 24 and 20, as they guide you through the waters. GPS technology is essential, but always corroborate with paper charts as a backup. Notable markers to pay attention to include: - Green marker

23 at the entrance to the ICW

- Red markers as you navigate through the area.

• Hazards:
Shifting tides and shoaling can cause changes in depth, especially around the inlets. Regularly check the water depth and be cautious near low-water areas. Boat wake can also create challenging conditions in narrower channels, so approach with care, particularly when passing other vessels.

• Local Regulations:
Be mindful of “No Wake” zones, especially near waterfront communities and parks. Additionally, fishing regulations apply if you plan to cast a line—a fishing license is required in North Carolina waters.

Weather Considerations

Since weather can change abruptly, be prepared and informed. Utilize boating apps like Savvy Navvy to stay updated on maritime weather forecasts and tide schedules. Always check for wind conditions and sea states that could affect your ride back, especially if storm clouds begin to gather.

Safety Tips

• Life Jackets: Ensure every passenger is wearing a life jacket before departure.
• First Aid: Carry a comprehensive first aid kit on board.
• Communication: Have a VHF radio handy. Familiarize yourself with local emergency frequencies.
• Plan Ahead: Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.

Conclusion

This journey between Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach is not just a simple transit; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the coastal wonders of North Carolina. Ideal for both beginners looking to develop their navigation skills and seasoned captains wanting a smooth and scenic trip, you’ll find plenty of engaging experiences along the way while keeping safety at the forefront. Enjoy your adventure on the water!