News from the Southern Loop
From Cruise Captain Mark
Three boats participated in the cruise to Albemarle Sound and Manteo, taking place June 12-18. This trip was changed last minute due to dockage availability and fuel constraints however, having a few relaxing days in Manteo was a real delight.
The first leg, maneuvering in the Chesapeake Canal, went smoothly until we were hit by a squall line entering the North Landing River. Thanks to Radar and being in a group, we all maintained our courses and made it to Coinjock to enjoy a pre-reserved Prime Rib dinner.
Day 2 we traveled to Manteo, which was a breeze – even allowing for some brief sailing for the sail boats! We arrived with plenty of time to have dinner and play song trivia at a local restaurant. The next two days we enjoyed the town of Manteo as well as a day at the beach. We stayed at Shallowbag Bay Marina which had nice facilities as well as a pool. We enjoyed dinners by the pool while taking in the magnificent sunsets, cocktails, and wine in the evenings.
The return trip home was equally exciting, thanks to a late morning thunderstorm in the Albemarle Sound. Another night in Coinjock enjoying other delicious menu items. The service there is exceptional! We departed Coinjock early morning, allowing us to make extra distance, making it all the way to Bluewater Marina in Hampton in 100-degree heat. Thankfully, that marina has a pool and onsite restaurant.
Lessons learned from traveling the canal and sound: Tide charts don’t matter. Wind controls the water depth. Wind from the south: tide is high, Wind from the north: tide is low. Height marker boards are not accurate on the Pungo Ferry Bridge. Watchout for islands of grass in the center of the North River Landing even though it’s in the middle of the channel. Always be prepared for a late afternoon wind increase in Roanoke and Albemarle Sounds.
Enjoy some photos from this excellent adventure!
