Beaufort, NC to Chaleston - Bailout Inlets ?

[PamlicoTraveler]

We are sailing from Beaufort to Charleston this weekend. I was looking at potential bailouts if we have a problem. I know Masonboro Inlet (Wrightsville Beach) and Cape Fear are OK. Am wondering about Little RIver and Murrells Inlet. Does anyone know which ones are OK offhand.

Shannon 43'
Draft 5'
Mastheight 65

Any help will be appreciated...

PT

[ActiveCaptain]

I can tell you without question that Winyah Bay is an excellent bailout place. We used it ourselves in May heading north from Charleston. Our intention was Charleston to Beaufort, NC and the weather just never settled down to the level we wanted for the overnight passage. A quick jump into Winyah Bay was simple - there's an excellent anchorage right near the inlet for easy in-and-out too. The next morning was calm and we continued with the overnight from there leaving later in the morning. I'm glad we ducked into Winyah.

The inlet is very deep, well marked, and passable in all conditions (we draw 6'). There is tide-generated current through the inlet and I'd assume that wind against that current would produce more difficult conditions. Still, it's an excellent inlet.

[PamlicoTraveler]

Thanks AC! I had seen that one and wondered about it too. Very helpful

[KittiwakeCD28]

Agree with comments about Wynah Bay - have used it when couldn't reach Charleston heading south. Although usually a problem when leaving more than arriving, make sure that you find the first range, which keeps you off the south jettie... Little River is also a good option, although along ways off course from the Beaufort-Charleston rhumb line. Peace and Fair Winds, Bill

[teejayevans]

There is a little known inlet at Five Fathom Creek around N 33 W 79 30
Used to be 9', faces south, I would get local knowledge first.
Tom

[PamlicoTraveler]

Thanks all... I'll checkout 5 Fathom creek... It sounds deep

[KittiwakeCD28]

Friend of mine tried more than once to get in 5 Fathom Creek last fall - with the board up on Bermuda 40, and after talking to some of the shrimpers in the neighborhood, he ended up going down to Charleston - so check carefully regarding the inlet there...