Southport, NC to Osprey Marina, Myrtle Beach, SC

Earliest start yet.  We had 63 miles to go and wanted to reach Osprey Marina at a reasonable time. By the time we left at 0650 the mega-yachts had already departed!  During the morning we were still near the coast and experienced strong currents both with us and against as we passed several inlets. Some were rough, and some were just nerve wracking because the cautions about shoaling and shifting channels demanded such close scrutiny to make sure we staying on the right course.  We have found that the "magenta line" (the center and preferred course of the ICW) on our chartplotter is amazingly up to date.  We took our data chip home and updated it online the day before we left home.

This inlet was even rougher than it looks here.  

Around 1100 we crossed the line into SC and moved away from the marshy inlet area of NC.  The Pine Island Cut, a 28 mile section of the ICW was the last part of the ICW to be completed (in 1937.) Instead of following a meandering river through lowlands, engineers chose to cut a deep straight ditch through higher country.  This changes the scenery as the sides are steep and high.  It's also the land of bridges, many 65' high, but several swing bridges that require and opening.

We also passed under several power lines and this cable car that takes golfers across the "ditch".

We seem to be traveling with several boats that go about the same speed we do, so we pass and are passed by them as we choose different spots to stop for the night.  We also see an occasional noteworthy vessel like this old Trumpy, SS Sophie.   The other two are gambling ships that go out just far enough offshore to let passengers lose their money.

The day proved to be the warmest so far, so we rolled up our sides an enjoyed the pleasant ride.  We made it to Osprey by 1600 and received their famous welcome and welcome package.  Lots of logo items, but also a fair amount of food and other necessaries.

Osprey is definitely one of the top of the 50 frugal stops!  Besides $1/foot and the goody bag, there is complimentary breakfast available up in the office.  I have been hearing a gentle pitter patter of rain on the cabin top - - - hopefully it will clear by morning.  ~~~_/)~~~M&D