Lake Pontchartrain is an almost ideal body of water for boating. The oval-shaped waterway is nearly 40 miles from east to west and 24 miles from New Orleans to the north shore. It is consistently 10 to 12 feet deep and the tidal range is normally less than 1 foot. Lake Pontchartrain deserves a high level of respect when storm winds blow. Keep a sharp eye out for numerous crab traps that seem to be randomly scattered across the lake; usually indicated by a small round white buoy.

Lake Pontchartrain is not a true lake. It is an estuary connected to the Gulf of Mexico via the Rigolets Straight and Chef Menteur Pass into Lake Borgne. It receives fresh water from the Tangipahoa, Tchefunct, Tickfaw, Amite and Bogue Falaya rivers and from Bayou Lacombe and Bayou Chinchuba. This area makes up one of the largest wetlands along the Gulf Coast of North America.

At Mile 35 EHL westbound vessels must decide if they are going to proceed to New Orleans by passing through the Rigolets (pronounced "rig-o-lees") and crossing Lake Pontchartrain (Route 1) or by continuing west in the GIWW and arriving in New Orleans at the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal (Route 2). The distance is about the same. Conditions in Lake Pontchartrain will contribute to the decision. Planning, preparation and up-to-date charts are important to a safe and comfortable passage in this area.

St. Tammany Parish

The south shore of St. Tammany Parish (22 miles north of New Orleans) offers everything from quaint bed and breakfast inns to antiques stores, fine restaurants and must-see swamp tours, which is the best way to see the nature estuary. Be sure to visit historic Olde Towne with excellent restaurants, lots of antiques shops and an ambiance that recalls simpler times. You can arrange to board an Amtrak train in Slidell for an easy trip into New Orleans and back.

New Orleans

New Orleans dominates the southern shore of Lake Ponchartrain. A major U.S. port, New Orleans is considered an economic and commercial hub for the entire Gulf Coast region. It is an understatement to say you have arrived at a unique and interesting cruising destination. Just passing through these waterways is a notable journey. You will encounter bridges, locks and lots of traffic from barges and tugs to paddleboats.

New Orleans is known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live music scene and unique cuisine. "The Big Easy" has a long history as a melting pot of French, African and American cultures. Embodying this festive spirit is Mardi Gras, the late-winter carnival famed for raucous costumed parades and street parties. Whether you stay a few days or a few weeks, your visit to New Orleans will be a memory maker.

Mandeville

The small towns of Mandeville and Madisonville are prominent features of the north shore. While the north shore may be only 22 miles from New Orleans, it is worlds apart; a much more relaxed area with the feel of the country. Many visiting boaters are attracted to the North Shore's peacefulness with ready access to central New Orleans and its cuisine and nightlife.

Mandeville on Bayou Castine is a destination of its own in terms of ambiance, amenities and popularity. Its shoreline and streets are landscaped with majestic oak, magnolia and sycamore trees, which augment the Southern charm and blend in with an array of fine dining houses and pubs.

Madisonville

The Tchefuncta (pronounced "Cha-funk-ta") River, 4 miles west of Lewisburg and 8 miles northwest of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, is Lake Pontchartrain's most popular weekend destination. This beautiful deep river has clean water, great anchorages, golf, tennis, country clubs, residential areas, several marinas and miles of undeveloped shores. It is also a popular waterway for crabbers so watch for crab pot floats.

Madisonville has a rich history on the river. The docks become crowded with small boats during the shrimp season and the town stays lively on weekends. Grocery stores, a Post Office, hardware store and other services are on the western shore (across the SR22 Bridge). There are also numerous restaurants and bars.

For more information on cruising the Lake Pontchartrain area, purchase a Print Waterway Guide Gulf Coast Edition or a Gulf Coast Subscription.