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NC Inlet Caution: Cape Fear River Entrance
- Date Reported: Jun 2, 2022
- Reporter: Jani Parker
- Source: Waterway Guide Staff
- Description:
Overview: First port south of Morehead City suitable for all sizes of oceangoing vessels via a major deepwater channel. Well-marked channel protected from the north and an easy entrance day or night.
Approach: Cape Fear River Entrance Lighted whistle buoy "CF" is at N 33° 46.275'/W 078° 03.026' (5 nm out).
Navigation: Cruisers can approach using the waypoint N 33° 50.370'/W 78° 01.780', which is close to red buoy "8" where the surrounding waters begin to shallow. From flashing red buoy "8," proceed slightly east of north to quick flashing red buoy "10" and then to quick flashing red buoy "12" (flashing green "11" may be missing), where you can pick up the Bald Head Shoal Range. For those headed north, we advise you stay on the ICW here to avoid a significant detour around Frying Pan Shoals, which extend 30 nm out into the Atlantic.
Cautions & Hazards: As this is a busy inlet, keep a constant watch posted for big ships. The current is very strong; time your entrance to take advantage of the tides. Northbound slower boats would be well-advised to check the tides before attempting the Cape Fear River's strong currents.
ICW Connection: Connects with the ICW at Mile 308.5. Heading north, the ICW follows the big ship channel toward Wilmington. To head south on the ICW, bear to port at Southport.
- Lat / Lon: N 33° 53.285' / W 078° 00.341'
1 Boater Comment
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Comment by: Kevin Carter on Jul 7, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.5'Do not follow the ferry boats into or out of the Bald Head Island Marina or you will find yourself grounded. Follow the channel markers only! They may be big boats, but these ferries have a very shallow draft and can go where most boats can't.
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