Topsail Beach to Atlantic Beach by boat

Pilotage Plan from Topsail Beach, North Carolina to Atlantic Beach, NC

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Overview

This journey along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and coastal waters of North Carolina offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and navigational challenges, making it suitable for experienced boaters and those eager to explore the coastal waterways. Starting from the charming Topsail Beach and heading to the vibrant Atlantic Beach, this itinerary emphasizes safety while showcasing the natural and cultural gems of the area.

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Departure: Topsail Beach, NC

Starting your adventure from the serene Topsail Beach, located at coordinates 34.38948 N, -77.60189 W, you'll want to get a good weather forecast for the day and prepare your vessel. Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful shoreline and possibly visit the nearby Topsail Island.

Safety Note:

Ensure your life jackets and emergency kits are accessible. It’s also wise to have a reliable compass, charts, and a VHF radio for communication.

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Route Overview

1. Topsail Beach to New River Inlet - Distance: Approximately 10 nautical miles. - Navigate through the tidal creeks and past the stunning beaches of Topsail Island. - Be aware of shifting sands and shoals as you approach New River Inlet. The inlet can be tricky, so pay close attention to navigational charts and any buoys marking safe passages.

2. New River Inlet to Camp Lejeune Marine Base - Distance: Approximately 5 nautical miles. - After passing through the inlet, keep an eye out for the marine base, which can provide a unique viewpoint of military training operations but be cautious as it may have restricted areas. - This stretch of the journey is largely devoid of major obstacles, though strong currents can sometimes affect navigation.

3. Camp Lejeune to Bogue Inlet - Distance: Approximately 10 nautical miles. - Beautiful views along this stretch are a highlight—enjoy the coastal wetlands, and watch for local wildlife. - Bogue Inlet is a wide and shallow passage, so keeping your speed moderate and paying attention to the marker buoys is essential for safe navigation.

4. Bogue Inlet to Atlantic Beach, NC - Distance: Approximately 11 nautical miles. - Continue following the ICW, making sure to navigate carefully around any shoals. Bogue Banks provide beautiful scenery and potential stopping points. - Look for landmarks like the Bogue Sound on your starboard as you approach your final destination.

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Notable Stops and Shelters

• New River Inlet: Should conditions worsen, you can seek temporary refuge here. The inlet provides some protection from wind and waves, although always remain aware of tidal changes.

• Bogue Inlet: A well-known shelter area, Bogue Inlet has facilities and might offer a break for fuel or refreshment if needed. The nearby towns have charming eateries and shops where you can stop for a break.

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Navigational Aids and Hazards

• Buoys and Markers: Pay attention to the numerous buoys and marker signs throughout your journey. These aids are crucial for safe passage, especially in the shoal-prone areas around the inlets. Ensuring your chart plotter is up-to-date will help you avoid hazards.

• Weather Conditions: Always check the local weather before you launch and on the water. Be prepared for sudden changes in conditions, and have a plan for how to handle them.

• Wildlife Regulations: Respect local regulations regarding wildlife. Certain areas, especially around Bogue Sound, may have restrictions to protect nesting species.

• Traffic Regulations: Be mindful of other boats, particularly near the military base and when approaching popular fishing areas.

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Conclusion

This trip along the coast from Topsail Beach to Atlantic Beach provides an exceptional opportunity for boating enthusiasts to experience the beauty of North Carolina’s coastline, all while making safety a top priority. It's suitable for intermediate to experienced boaters who understand the challenges and joys of coastal navigation. Ensure you're well-prepared, remain vigilant, and enjoy every moment on the water.

Recommended Apps:1. Savvy Navvy: A great tool for route planning and real-time navigation with user-friendly features.2. Navionics: For detailed charts that provide insights into depth, tides, and local navigational hazards.3. Windy: An excellent app for checking wind and weather conditions forecasts.

Enjoy your trip, and safe boating!