Tag: North Carolina

Lighthouses of the Outer Banks

Lighthouses of the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina are a string of barrier islands jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond them are the treacherous waters of “The Graveyard of the Atlantic,” where many a ship has floundered. Numerous lighthouses were built to help mariners navigate the dangerous passages, but through time and the use of modern navigation technology, many lighthouses no longer serve as the primary navigational aid. Yet, they still stand as a reference to warn boats of dangerous area. Every lighthouse is unique and painted differently so boaters can identify each one and know their location to use as a daymark. At night, each working lighthouse has a distinctive light sequence as its identity.

Many lighthouses have been restored and are open to visitors who can climb to the top and get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area. Typically, there is a fee for this which is used for preservation and upkeep. Keep in mind that the lighthouses are often closed in the winter, so check ahead to see if and when you can visit.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

The farthest north of the lights is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla. An impressive red brick tower rises 162 feet above the ground. The 220 steps are considered a relatively easy climb with numerous landings to stop and rest. Along the way, you’ll see exhibits that tell the lighthouse’s history. From the top, you’ll have great views of Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the northern Outer Banks.

Completed in 1875, Currituck was the last major brick lighthouse built on the Outer Banks. It was left unpainted to make it different from the other lighthouses. The lighthouse is situated among many restored buildings, one of which has been converted into a gift shop. The surrounding grounds are known for their scenic beauty.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

The Bodie (pronounced “body”) Island Lighthouse is just south of Nags Head. At 156 feet high and with prominent black and white horizontal stripes, the Bodie Light is a striking feature. After earlier versions failed, this structure was finished in 1872. The lighthouse was open to the public in 2013 after an extensive renovation. Climb the 214 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with glorious views of Pamlico Sound and the Oregon Inlet. The keeper’s duplex is also restored and houses a gift shop, ranger office, and visitors center.

One of the unique features of the Bodie Island Light station is that it is surrounded by ponds and wetlands. Boardwalks lead visitors to observation stations to catch a glimpse of birds and other wildlife.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The most famous of the Outer Banks lights is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse located in Buxton on Hatteras Island. After earlier lights were deemed too short and not effective, a new structure was completed in 1870. At 208 feet tall, the Hatteras Light is the tallest lighthouse in the United States. The great height and visibility were deemed necessary because sea conditions just offshore make this area one of the most notorious for shipwrecks. The distinctive black and white diagonal stripes were added in 1873.

The lighthouse is open to the public, and the 269 steps traversing the 200 feet of elevation make this a challenging climb, especially in the heat of summer. As a reward, you’ll get great views of Hatteras Island, Pamlico Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby, there is a visitor’s center and museum.

In the 1900s, beach erosion continually threatened the structure. When all efforts to stop the encroaching ocean failed, the entire lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet over 23 days in a monumental engineering feat in 1999, and is now well back from the water.

Ocracoke Lighthouse

The Ocracoke Lighthouse is located on Ocracoke Island and is the southernmost of the Outer Banks lights. There are no bridges to the island. Ferry service is available from Hatteras Island to the north and from mainland North Carolina to the south.

The Ocracoke Lighthouse opened in 1823 and is now the oldest operational lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the nation. The lighthouse is in a unique setting—a residential area on only two acres of land. It is within easy walking or biking distance from many locations on the south end of the island.

Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open for climbing and there are no visitor facilities on site. Parking is extremely limited. You are, however, welcome to visit and take pictures. At only 75 feet tall, this is the shortest of the Outer Banks lights, but its pure-white exterior makes it a striking landmark. The short stature was all that was necessary to safely guide mariners through Ocracoke Inlet and into Pamlico Sound.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

In the small town of Manteo on Roanoke Island, you will find the most unusual of the Outer Banks lights, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. The original lighthouse was established in 1831 and was used to guide nearby ships into Croatan Sound; therefore, great height wasn’t necessary for visibility. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, the last working light was opened in 1877. Decommissioned in 1955, the structure was lost in an ill-fated move. The current light is a replica of the 1877 lighthouse. Finished in 2004, it’s only 37 feet tall and can be found at the end of a short pier jutting out into Roanoke Sound. outerbankslighthousesociety.org

By Ed Brotak, Southern Boating July 2020

Grace Runs Deep at River Dunes

River Dunes on Grace Harbor

The true Southern hospitality and ample amenities River Dunes on Grace Harbor will leave a lasting memory.

The well-known towns of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast typically get most of the credit as cruiser hotspots. But along the Intracoastal Waterway, tucked within the Neuse River off the Pamlico Sound, sits a remarkable hidden gem. It’s one that won’t stay hidden for long. River Dunes Resort and Marina on Grace Harbor is putting Oriental, North Carolina, on the map as a premier marina resort destination—and for good reason.

As you cruise along the Atlantic Coast, set aside few extra days to see the property’s recent re-design.

A Pleasant Surprise

River Dunes aims to enhance the cruiser’s lifestyle, and it shows through with lush landscaping, architectural design features, gourmet meals, fully outfitted facilities, and some of the friendliest staff I’ve had the pleasure to meet. Fellow cruisers on the property agree that it’s more of an experience than a marina.

For transient cruisers, the best part is that they’re welcome to use all club members’ amenities at no additional cost. In fact, one cruiser discovered the benefits of River Dunes quite unexpectedly.

While on his fifth summer voyage from Miami to the Hamptons in his beloved boat he refers to as “his best girl,” Davar experienced what every cruiser dreads: engine trouble.

He was within reach of his usual mooring but decided on River Dunes Marina because it was closer to his next stop in Maryland, and he hoped to avoid time lost the next day. Davar was struck by the quality of the marina and by the beauty and charm surrounding the quaint resort, but more so by the professional and friendly staff. He was so impressed, he stayed an additional two days even after his engines were ready.

“I had no clue this place was here, so it was the most pleasant surprise,” he says. “I had to call my girlfriend and tell her I would be a few days late because I couldn’t bring myself to leave here yet.” While he finished a glass of red wine and homemade white chocolate raspberry cheesecake at the Harbor Club restaurant, he shared his intention to take advantage of all the newly renovated facilities open to guests; he especially anticipated the state-of-the-art gym that overlooks the harbor.

What’s in Store

In addition to the new luxurious spa and wellness facility that offers a sauna and steam room, guests can find just about any activity to fill their time. If you haven’t quite overdosed on saltwater fun, grab one of the many available canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Stretch your sea legs with a leisurely bicycle ride along the 28 lush waterfront acres, or play a game of tennis on one of two brand-new, lighted Har-Tru tennis courts. If you prefer a little more relaxation, lounge under one of the covered cabanas and order food and drinks poolside, then take a dip in the pool or hot tub. The pool area also offers a brand-new bar area to grab an adult libation.

To beat the heat in the middle of the day, opt for lunch inside YAWL’S Cafe, where Scarlett and Lauren are eager to take your order. Then stroll over to the Harbor Village and browse at the Grace Harbor Provisions Company. In addition to a fine dining restaurant, the Harbor Club is also home to a library, billiards table, event space, and screened-in porch with a fireplace to wind down after a day on the water.

Something that makes this place extra special is the variety of accommodations. River Dunes is part of the award-winning Palm Hill Group. That includes breathtaking homes, future home sites, leased and transient boat slips, cottage rentals, and hotel rooms. One couple who keeps their boat at River Dunes full-time arranged their family reunion on the property. The rental cottages and bunkies provided the perfect option to house all their out-of-town family not staying on a boat.

Dry Land

Accommodations range from one-bedroom cottages with mini kitchenettes and sitting areas to multiple bedroom bunkies with full kitchens and living rooms. There’s something to suit any need. Spa-like finishes with personal décor touches lend to the ideal blend of a luxury resort and cozy home feel. A laundry room is also available on property in what will soon be the new cruisers’ lounge area. Free Wi-Fi is available in the marina slips, pool, harbor club, village center, and all rentals.

Use the property’s courtesy car to venture into town for supplies or just a fun visit. A 10-minute drive will take you into the quiet town of Oriental, famed for its deep sailing roots. Along the main road of Broad Street, food provisions are available at a nice Piggly Wiggly supermarket, and just beyond, boat supplies can be found at the West Marine.

If you crave Italian food, The Silos Restaurant across from West Marine hits the spot. They make homemade pizzas and pasta (featuring fresh local seafood) as well as the typical American fare with many local and imported beers on tap. O’Town Restaurant is a few minutes farther into town and its outdoor accommodations with a pub-type feel and a band draws in all the locals, so grab a seat when you can. On a quieter street, the unassuming M&M’s Cafe is a good old-fashioned American seafood grill with fried hushpuppy baskets that will feed the whole table.

A Crown Jewel

As you enter back onto the property, you will notice a distinct difference from the surrounding town. And it’s not because of the friendly ponies that greet you from their nearby pasture. It’s clear River Dunes offers the luxuries, relaxation, professionalism, and sophistication of a private club, but stays true to their roots. Their goal of excellence is certainly achieved in the layout, attention to design detail, service, and resident and cruiser amenities.

River Dunes is truly a breath of fresh air and the crown jewel for cruisers near  Oriental, North Carolina. The property’s management and staff have their eyes set on continued expansion and advancement. The goal? Be the area’s most sought-after, full-service destination resort and marina. As more delighted cruisers discover this sweet spot, it’s easy to imagine all the success and accolades River Dunes will receive.

Here on Grace Harbor, grace does, indeed, run deep.

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Boating September 2018

Cruiser Resources

River Dunes Marina on Grace Harbor
MM173 in Oriental, NC
Monitors VHF 16 & 72
(800) 348-7618 or (252) 249-4908
marina@riverdunes.com
riverdunes.com

Amenities

  • ICW access
  • Accommodates vessels up to 150′ LOA and 7′ draft
  • Floating docks
  • 500ft. fuel dock with high-speed diesel, gasoline and pump out
  • 30-50-100-200 amp service
  • Steam showers
  • Laundry service
  • Courtesy cars
  • Direct Wi-Fi to boat slips

Band the Billfish Tournament

Band the Billfish Tournament

Sport fishing tournaments are some of the most generous supporters of conservation efforts aimed at maintaining healthy oceans and sustaining fish species populations. None represents this better than North Carolina Ducks Unlimited Band the Billfish Tournament held in Morehead City, North Carolina.

The tournament worked with the National Marine Fisheries to establish minimum catch weights for Blue Marlin to allow younger fish not yet of breeding age to grow into maturity. The tournament is proud to report a 100 percent release rate over the last 15 years and in 24 of the tournament’s 30- year history. The previous years had a release rate of 99 percent.

This year’s tournament, held July 18-21, begins with a Captains’ Party. Fishing days will be July 19-21, and teams fish any two of the three days. More than $100,000 is up for grabs in prize money with special categories for Lady Anglers and Greenwing Anglers.

ncdubillfish.com

By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating July 2018
Photo courtesy of Point Click Ducks Unlimited

More on the Southeastern Seaboard

Mel Fisher Days

Bugfest

Yellowfin Tuna in the Gulf

Let’s go fishing! Yellowfin Tuna are abundant in the Gulf Stream.

It’s prime yellowfin tuna month in the Gulf Stream off the North Carolina coast. If you only looked at the ads for North Carolina sportfishing or the fishing tournament schedule, you may assume billfishing is the best in fishing action.

But yellowfin tuna is the most popular catch for offshore North Carolina anglers, and for good reason—yellowfins are great tasting.

Put your drag setting to good use because catch restrictions allow anglers to take home a generous amount. Sport fishing enthusiasts are not limited to going out with the big boys; anglers can bring home a decent size catch in center consoles, too.

#fishon

fishing-nc.com

By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating May 2018

More Southeast Seaboard Updates:

Wooden Boat Shows

World Famous Blue Crab Festival

National Maritime Day

The Wright Brothers’ flight anniversary

The Wright Brothers’ flight anniversary is just around the corner.

Boaters, beachgoers, and kite-flyers have been enjoying the Outer Banks of North Carolina for many years. As a matter of fact, it was exactly 114 years ago this December 17th that two experimental kite-flying brothers named Orville and Wilbur made history taking turns at the helm of their self-built flying machine. Join the First Flight Society as they commemorate this historic event. According to first flight.org, “The observance begins with a patriotic musical prelude followed by a wreath-laying ceremony to honor the Wright brothers and the witnesses of the first flight at the exact spot where the famous first flight occurred.” Park museum exhibits will be available throughout the day, along with activities and interpretive talks in the Flight Room. The Visitors Center will open at 9:00AM.

By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating December 2017

Fall fishing in the Atlantic

Fall fishing in Hatteras

The folks in Hatteras on North Carolina’s Outer Banks fish year-round. They keep an eye on the weather and take advantage of the good days to motor out to the warm Gulf Stream waters to see what’s biting. If you’re looking for some late-season fall fishing action and fine fall weather is in the forecast, the charter captains can put you on some fish, and you’ll learn how to catch them yourself if you don’t already know how. Anglers heading out from the Hatteras Harbor Marina this past November reeled in blackfin tuna, bluefish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, sea trout, red drum, triggerfish, sharks, blue marlin, amberjack, and king mackerel, including a 50-pounder.

The well-protected, full-service marina has a 20-boat charter fleet as well as deepwater transient slips to accommodate boats up to 60 feet. Slips offer 30-, 50- and 100-amp electrical service and water. Shower facilities, diesel fuel, oil disposal, fish cleaning service, and a laundromat are located on the premises, which also has a marina store and deli. It’s within walking distance of restaurants, shopping and grocery supplies. hatterasharbor.com

25 years of the Fall Fishing Classic

The 25th Annual Chesapeake Bay Fall Classic fishing tournament, hosted by the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishing Association, is scheduled for November 17-19. The tournament coincides with the southerly migration of large striped bass from the Northeast. The winning striper last year was a whopping 52.5 inches—caught by John Weber—and checked in at the Calvert Marina. Captain’s meetings are scheduled from 6PM to 8PM weekdays leading up to the tournament at four locations in Kent Island, Essex, Solomons Island, and Annapolis. Anglers can register and pick up a tournament packet, enjoy some food and refreshments, and share game plans for catching the big one. Weigh stations
are located at Sandy Point State Park, Rod ‘N Reel, Breezy Point Marina, Calvert Marina, Point Lookout State Park, Kentmorr Marina, Knapps Narrows Marina, and Taylor’s Island Campground.
mssa.net

ASMFC TO DECIDE THE FATE OF ATLANTIC MENHADEN

Reedville is very much in the news these days as the Virginia coastal town is home to the only industrial menhaden reduction fishing operation on the Atlantic Coast, with half its quota taken inside the Chesapeake Bay. Unlike menacing Asian carp in the Mississippi, menhaden are a native fish that play animportant role in coastal ecology, providing nutrition for fish and birds and serving as filter feeders of pollutants in the water. Recreational anglers and conservationists have long lobbied for menhaden management based on ecological reference points (ERP). ERPs consider the multiple roles that species play, both in supporting fisheries for human use and the marine ecosystem. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Atlantic Menhaden Management Board will meet November 13-14 to consider approval of Amendment 3 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden and to set specifications for the 2018 fishing season. The meeting will take place at the BWI Marriott in Linthicum, Maryland, with an anticipated large crowd representing commercial, recreational and environmental stakeholders. It will be live-streamed via webinar. asmfc.org/species/atlantic-menhaden

Story and Photos by Chris Knauss, Southern Boating November 2017

Outer Banks Wooden Boat Show

Outer Banks Wooden Boat Show

The 6th Annual Roanoke Island Maritime Museum  Outer Banks Wooden Boat Show in Manteo on North Carolina’s Outer Banks is scheduled for October 27-28 and open to all wooden boats: power, sail, row, paddle, new construction or restored. Registration is $30 for exhibitors, which includes a pass for a Friday night exhibitors’ welcome reception and a museum T-shirt.

Registration forms are available online, at the museum or by calling the museum at (252) 475-1750. The boats are displayed in the Creef Boathouse and Park and in the water at the Roanoke Marshes lighthouse docks. Show-goers will judge the best owner-built/restored or professional-built/restored boat. Awards presented at a dinner Saturday evening include the People’s Choice Award and the H.A. Creef Award, given to the best overall boat. All proceeds benefit a local youth sailing program.
townofmanteo.com

 

by Chris Knauss Southern Boating October 2017

Additional Chesapeake and Mid-Atlantic Updates:

Virginia Vineyards
Downrigging Weekend

A New Island in Cape Hatteras

A new island has formed rather quickly in Cape Hatteras.

A new island has unexpectedly and rapidly emerged south of Cape Point, a popular surf, kayak and fishing destination at the southern tip of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Large sandbar formation and shifting shoals are not unusual along the barrier islands of the Southeast coast.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore personnel have been watching a shoal forming in this area for some time. According to Dave Hallac, superintendent of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which oversees Cape Point, this formation is “unusually large compared to what we’ve been seeing in recent decades.”

The new island—one mile long and several hundred yards wide—is locally being referred to as “Shelly” Island due to the abundance of shells found on its shoreline.

By Bob Arrington Southern Boating, September 2017

North Carolina boat shows

North Carolina boat shows are tough to beat.

SEPTEMBER STARTS THE BIG BOAT SHOW SEASON in Newport, Rhode Island, but you don’t have to travel that far north to get your boat show fix. North Carolina will host the 2nd Annual Wilmington Boat Show September 8-10 in Wilmington, North Carolina. After a successful first run with more than 70 vendors and great attendance, everyone is excited about a bigger and better event this year. The show takes place in multiple locations, including the Wilmington Convention Center, Port City Marina and The Shell and Battleship North Carolina. For more information, including a list of vendors and advance ticket purchase, go to wilmingtonboatshow.com.

If your interests are specifically in wooden boats, there are more North Carolina boat shows for you. The 8th Annual Southport Wooden Boat Show will be held Saturday, September 30th at the Old Yacht Basin in Southport. A record number of attendees are expected at the show to view boats in and out of the water. For a unique experience, Duke Energy sponsors an Educational Pavilion that supports the show’s mission: “To promote interest in and disseminate knowledge of the craft and art of wooden boat construction, to support efforts to preserve wooden boat construction and skills, and to celebrate the region’s maritime and boatbuilding history.”

The North Carolina Aquarium and Fort Fisher Underwater Archeological Branch will also contribute interesting exhibits for attendees’ enjoyment. Don’t miss the “Taste of Cape Fear” and Ship’s Store tents featuring local seafood dishes and numerous vendors offering nautical-related products. Show details can be found at southportwoodenboatshow.com.

By Bob Arrington Southern Boating, September 2017, Photo by Chris Schnell

Albemarle 29 Express

Fishing Friendly
The Albemarle 29 Express is built for hard-core fishing, yet also offers a gentler, family-oriented side.

Ten rocket launchers—the sporty angling term for rod holders—are poised for action on the gleaming pipework of the new Albemarle 29 Express. The round cylinders are angled at 45 degrees and ready to accept the butt end of a fishing rod. Having so many places to store fishing rods instantly brands the latest Albemarle as a hard-core fishingmachine—yet a closer look reveals a softer side.

For example, inside the forward cabin, a 4kW generator powered an air conditioning system that kept things a cool 68 degrees in the afternoon swelter of the 2016 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The 29 Express was introduced at the show after more than a year of design work, as the Albemarle team collaborated with renowned designer Lou Codega and Marine Concepts.

“Marine Concepts offers the ability to design and show you in 3D on a computer what it’s all going to look like,” explained Keith Privott, director of sales and product  development for Albemarle. “That saves a lot of our time out in the shop doing the tooling by hand. Lou Codega designed the deck and the hull, and together the finishing touches were put on in the last four months.”

Weighing more than 14,000 pounds, the 29 Express is heavier than most boats in her class. “There’s an old saying that ‘there’s no replacement for displacement’ and that’s certainly true with this boat,” Privott said. “The hull has a 24-degree deadrise, reverse chine and the keel is a little wider. So, in big water the 29 Express never slams. It always goes in easy.”

Much of what makes the Albemarle 29 Express a serious Sportfishing machine also makes it a great family boat. For example, powered by twin Yamaha F350 outboard engines, the 29 Express can be equipped with Optimus 360 joystick control, so it is far easier to operate in low-speed conditions for the family member who doesn’t have a lot of time behind the helm, explained Privott. “Experienced captains will like it when backing down on fish and around the docks.”

The 29 Express comes standard with twin 300-hp Yamahas, but Privott said most customers opt for the 350s, which power the boat to a top speed of 47 knots, with a 300-nautical-mile range at 34 knots. “Our target buyer is someone who wants to go offshore on a regular basis in the worst possible conditions, but still have tthe protectionof the cabin,” Privott said.

The boat’s fishing features, however, are front and center, starting with those 10 rocket launchers on the tower. “When there’s a strike you need somewhere for those other rods to go, and the place is not in the gunwale rod holders. They will just be in the way,” Privott said. “Rocket launchers make it really easy for clearing rods or for holding other types of rigs that you want ready to go if the conditions are right.”

A second helm station sits atop the tower, built near the Albemarle factory by local company Ashley Welding. “We have been working with them for 35 years,” Privott said, adding that their T-top and tower design sets them apart. “Instead of taking two pipes and cutting the ends square and welding them together, they mill the pipes, so the weld gap is shorter and it’s a tighter fi t, making the tower stronger.”

The tower location offers the captain excellent visibility of the huge 64-square-foot cockpit on the 29 Express, which is large enough for a fighting chair or smaller battle station.The cockpit sole features two 56-gallon fish boxes that are glassed to be leak-proof and equipped with macerators for easy drainage. The transom offers a 30-gallon livewell with starboard-side door and a flip-down bench seat. The shore power connection comes standard. “We built a dedicated pump room in the center of the cockpit,” Privott explained. He demonstrated that everything is accessible, and there is room for a Seakeeper 3 stabilizer.

The 29 Express features a rigging station to starboard amidships, while a mezzanine aft-facing bench seat is to port. The center walkway leads to the single helm station to starboard, with a two-person co-pilot setup opposite. A signature attribute of the 29 Express is the front windshield, which offers a unique design for the captain and crew to enjoy unobstructed views courtesy of the molded fiberglass structure with a single laminated front glass panel. In addition, the huge dash has room for two 12-inch multifunction displays (MFDs) or one large 22-inch MFD. The throttle and shifter are to the right of the steering wheel in a comfortable location, while a mechanical compass sits atop the dash. Privott said the entire helm area can be closed off with isinglass and air conditioned.

The cabin below features a head with shower to starboard, and galley with freshwater sink and microwave to port. Two Pullman bunks provide overnight accommodations for up to four people. The joinery is satin-finished cherry, complemented by Ultraleather upholstery for softness and durability. A deck hatch in the center offers natural light and ventilation.

“We’re always thinking about comfort and safety, so up on the bow we have a lot of comfortable handholds and nonskid surfaces for traction,” Privott said. “About half of our customers go for the power windlass, so they can do a quick anchor set and release and never leave the helm. This is a boat with features we know customers want through 39 years of experience. It combines the amenities of a fishing boat with the comforts of a family cruiser.”

Doug Thompson Southern Boating Magazine June 2017

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 33′
Beam: 10′ 6″
Draft: 2′ 10″ (engines down)
Displacement: 14,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 310/30 U.S. gals.
Power: 2x Yamaha F300 outboard engines (standard); 2x Yamaha F350 (optional)
Cruise/Top Speed with F350s: 34/47 knots
Range: 300 nm @ cruise
MSRP: Call for price

Contact: Albemarle Boats
140 Midway Drive
Edenton, NC 27932
(252) 482-7600
albemarleboats.com

Pirate Month in the Carolinas

“ARRGUST” is pirate month in the Carolinas with numerous buccaneer festivals to enjoy.

Historically, North Carolina was the operating base for many privateers-turned-pirate. The Beaufort Pirate Invasion in Beaufort, North Carolina, August 11-12 celebrates the life and history of the region’s pirates. The most famous pirate of all, Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, lived and was ultimately captured in coastal North Carolina. Learn about the local maritime history and see real artifacts from Blackbeard’s ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort.

From August 16-17, the pirates break camp and move north to the Outer Banks, where they set up a real-life pirate village at Jockey’s Ridge Crossing in Nags Head, North Carolina. Visitors can learn about the skills it took to live a pirate’s life and the important pirate’s code.

More information on both events is available at beaufortpirateinvasion.com and kittyhawk.com/event/outer-banks-pirate-festival/.

By Bob Arrington Southern Boating Magazine, August 2017

SUP? West Marine Carolina Cup

SUP, y’all? The West Marine Carolina Cup, that’s SUP. 

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, becomes “SUP Central” April 19-23 with the world’s largest Stand-Up Paddle Board Race. In its seventh year, the 2017 West Marine Carolina Cup is expected to draw more than 900 paddlers to compete. Race organizers list five courses: a kid’s race, the Harbor Island Recreational “fun” race, Money Island open race, the six-man outrigger race, and the renowned Graveyard Elite Race. The event also features clinics with something for everyone from beginning paddlers to the experienced.

You won’t want to miss this five-day beach SUP Festival and Expo with fun for the whole family.

Additional information is available at wrightsvillebeachpaddleclub.com/carolina-cup.

Oriental Boat Show 2017

The Best Small Town Boat Show in America

A village with only 950 residents but over 3,000 boats has all the credibility it needs to claim itself as a boating Mecca. But add a spring boat show with over 100 exhibitors and you have a “not-to-miss” event! The Oriental In-Water Boat Show takes place April 21-23 and is the largest in-water boat show between Annapolis and Savannah. Exhibitors from as far north as Hampton, Virginia, and as far south as Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will be on hand displaying their products and services. New and brokerage boats will be in the water and available to tour. Many others will be available for sea trials as well.

Oriental, North Carolina, is a historic boating village on the banks of the Neuse River where the Neuse opens up to Pamlico Sound. Hotel and marina accommodations are located in the village within walking distance of the show. A complete list of vendors and show activities is available on the show’s website. Don’t miss the Oriental Boat Show 2017! 

orientalboatshow.com 

Atlantic Coast Updates: Operation Sailfish

Sailfish Resort and Marina on Singer Island, Florida, is hosting Operation Sailfish, the opening event of the popular “Quest for the Crest” series of fishing tournaments. From December 7-11, fishing teams from around the region will be competing in this exciting catch-and-release competition. The best of the best will be going after an estimated $700,000 in prize money and the honor of having their team name stamped into the 2016 Operation Sailfish Dog Tag IDs. The Dog Tag IDs are part of the tournament’s military theme designed to honor those who serve in an armed service uniform. A portion of the proceeds from the tournament will be donated to “Operation Homefront,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial and other types of support to the families of military personnel and wounded warriors. bluewatermovements.com

Marlin Bay Yacht Club
The Florida Keys, known for a diverse and eclectic blend of people and cultures, offer homes and boating communities to suit every taste and budget. Starting the last week of November, yachtsmen passing through the Keys will have a new place to call home. The Marlin Bay Yacht Club on Marathon Key will allow the first boats to tie up in their state-of-the-art, deep water marina. Palm Hill Inc. developed the club, and they’re also the owners of the award-winning River Dunes Marina and community in Oriental, North Carolina. Marlin Bay Yacht Club consists of a “99-slip marina, 10,000-square-foot, two-story clubhouse, lagoon-style pool with pavilion and bar, and a 12,000-square-foot harbormaster facility”. In addition to the marina, the community is offering 84 single-family, luxury residences. marlinbay.com

‘Tis the season
Very few holiday light displays have achieved both national and international acclaim, and we are fortunate to have two of them in our southeast coastal communities. Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights features more than lights. On display are handmade, holiday-themed sand sculptures, a Victorian carousel and a holiday train ride. The festival has been recognized as “One of the Top 10 Holiday Celebrations” and will run from November

Festive lights illuminate a Charleston bridge. Photo credit: Bluewater Movements

11th until January 1st. The display is located at James Island County Park. ccrpc.com 

Shelter Cove Towne Centre, nestled in the center of Hilton Head Island, lights up the night throughout the holiday season with the Dove Street Festival of Lights. For more than 20 years, Shelter Cove has brought holiday spirit along with nightly entertainment to this popular village center and all for a good cause. According to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre website, The Dove Street Festival of Lights has raised over $120,000 in cash for nonprofits, provided more than 40,000 cans of food for needy families and given 20,000 presents to kids in need. The festival has even been recognized as one of the nation’s top holiday light displays and can be seen nightly from November 19th through December 31st from 6-10PM. sheltercovetownecentre.com

By Bob Arrington, Southern Boating Magazine December 2016

Honored guests at Chesapeake Bay Beach Club

The newly opened Inn at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club on Maryland’s Kent Island offers all the pleasantries of modern, clean accommodations with a décor that’s been described as “industrial chic meets farmhouse sleek”. Docking for the inn is conveniently available at the adjacent full-service Bay Bridge Marina. If you’re looking for a fine feast, Knoxie’s Table on the first floor of the inn features fresh products from nearby farms and local waters, with seasonal specialties such as Maryland cream of crab soup and duck-fat fries. The Market at the inn offers baked goods and a breakfast and lunch menu that includes scrapple, egg and cheese biscuits and soft shell crab sandwiches.

The inn has 54 guest rooms and suites, wedding and banquet facilities, and the spa offers a soothing Himalayan salt stone massage. The club hosted President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn and their more than 300 guests this past summer in celebration of the Carters’ 70th wedding anniversary and the former President’s 70th anniversary of his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy. baybeachclub.com

Get your eye patch

Organizers of the first PirateFest & Boat Show at the Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department are hoping for some fine fall weather to grace their fundraising event. The event takes place November 12-13, and money raised during the show will be used to help purchase and maintain a new ambulance for the island community. The event itself is free and will feature pirate costume contests for children and adults, tours of the firehouse, regional vendors with nautical-inspired merchandise, food, and refreshments along with a boat show where you can buy or browse. 2016piratefest.com

Inlet caution
Mariners heading south this month should be aware of the changing inlet conditions along the North Carolina coast. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, shoaling conditions exist at the following inlets: Oregon, Hatteras, Ocracoke, Barden, Beaufort, Bogue, New River, Topsail, Masonboro, Carolina Beach, Lockwoods Folly, and Shallotte. Shoaling conditions increase the potential for groundings. The inlets are subject to continual and sometimes rapid environmental changes, and the aids to navigation in these inlets may not be charted or may not be marking the best water due to continually shifting shoals. Mariners are encouraged to obtain the most recent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers hydrographic survey information. saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/Navigation/Hydrographic-Surveys

Lights on the water
The Lighted Boat Parade season in Chesapeake waters gets underway with the 20th Annual Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade. This year’s parade will be from 6-8PM on Saturday, December 3rd, along the waterfront in Yorktown, Virginia. The festivities include caroling around a beach bonfire, musical performances and hot cider. Boats in the parade include motorboats, sailboats and Chesapeake deadrise working boats. It’s not too late to sign up to participate. Register by November 10th to be featured in the event program. Judges located on the Yorktown pier will consider categories such as “Wow Factor,” “Color & Light,” “Originality,” and “Spirit”. Registered parade participants can reserve an overnight stay, with limited availability at Wormley Creek Marina at no charge on Friday and/or Saturday night. The public spectator area is at Riverwalk along Yorktown Beach with additional spots at Gloucester Point and Sarah Creek. yorkcounty.gov

By Christopher Knauss, Southern Boating Magazine November 2016

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