Oak Island to Myrtle Beach by boat

Pilotage Plan: Oak Island, North Carolina to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Overview and Route Planning
This itinerary outlines a scenic and safe boating trip from Oak Island, North Carolina, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This route is well-suited for recreational boaters and offers a range of navigational aids, safe harbors, and engaging points of interest along the way. As you set off from Oak Island, you will navigate through some pristine coastal waters with opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Starting Point: Oak Island, NC
At the coordinates of 33.9256° N, 78.0598° W, Oak Island is a beautiful place to commence your journey. Before you leave, ensure your vessel is fully equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, a first aid kit, flares, and a VHF radio.

Navigational Considerations:

1. Weather Check:Always check the local weather forecast before departure. Conditions can change rapidly, so staying informed is crucial.
2. Tides and Currents:Be mindful of the tidal influences and currents in this region; plan your trip around the tides to ensure optimal conditions for your passage.

Route Outline:

1. Leaving Oak Island:

• Head southwest through the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The ICW offers a protected route, especially useful if weather conditions start to deteriorate.
• Pay close attention to navigation markers, particularly Waccamaw River markers as you make your way down the waterway.

1. Bald Head Island:

• This is a fantastic place to pause and explore. The island is only accessible by boat, and its quaint lighthouse, Old Baldy, offers lovely views and a rich history.
• The harbor at Bald Head Island provides an excellent sheltered bay for inclement weather.

1. Southport:

• Located just a short distance from Bald Head Island, Southport is a charming town with maritime history and beautiful waterfront views. Consider stopping for lunch and exploring the local shops and galleries.
• The anchorage here is generally calm, making it another suitable location to wait out bad weather.

1. Lockwood Folly Inlet:

• As you continue down your planned route, paying attention to approach the Lockwood Folly Inlet with caution; it's known for strong currents, particularly during tidal changes. Use navigation aids like buoys to help guide you through.

1. Little River:

• On approach to the South Carolina border, Little River offers a safe haven known for its marinas and access to restaurants and shops. This might be a good place to refuel your boat and your body!

1. Final Destination: Myrtle Beach:

• The approach to Myrtle Beach is straightforward via the ICW. The beach itself offers ample opportunities for recreational activities ranging from fishing to soaking in the sun.
• The M.B. State Park provides a great anchorage option if you wish to explore the unspoiled areas of the beach.

Notable Navigation Aids:

• Be vigilant for markers indicating shallow areas along the route, especially in and around inlets. Red and green channel markers will guide you safely through deeper waters and indicate which side to pass on.
• Utilize your nautical charts regularly; they provide valuable information that can aid in avoiding hazards.

Local Regulations:

• Review local regulations regarding speed limits, no-wake zones, and protected areas along the ICW to ensure compliance with local laws and protect the natural environment.

Shelter and Safety Stops:

• Always have a backup plan when it comes to stops. In addition to those mentioned, there are numerous marinas strategically placed along the route should you need to seek shelter.
• Make use of apps like savvy navvy to assist with planning your routes and provide real-time navigation information. Other useful navigation apps include Navionics, NOAA Weather Radar, and Explore NOAA.

This trip from Oak Island to Myrtle Beach is ideal for recreational boaters looking for a blend of scenic coastal navigation, opportunities to explore charming towns, and the assurance of proper safety measures. Following thisPilotage Plan ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, allowing you to relish the beauty of the Carolina coast!