Hell Gate on the ICW in Georgia

[kingofcary]

Hi All ... any shared recent experience useful. I am making my way north on the ICW From Stuart Fl to Oriental NC. currently in St Augustine. Would like to hear any wisdom or advice as to Hell Gate Ga. Has as anyone been thru recently or care to share ... thank you .. Dennis

[sailorboy1]

It’s been 1.5 years since I went through. I did it at high tide and slack water and it was fine for my 6.4’ draft .

You should check Active Captain for newer reports

[Jeanneau 45.2]

Been through several times over the last few years. I don't fret about tide or current, it is what it is when I get there. I have a 5 1/2 foot draft. My advice is two fold ... pay very careful attention to the navaids (and line up well in advance to entering the cut) and put on a bit more way than you might normally while approaching and in the cut (to provide rapid response to your steerage). Truth is not as bad as its reputation.

[hlev00]

Originally Posted by Jeanneau 45.2

Been through several times over the last few years. I don't fret about tide or current, it is what it is when I get there. I have a 5 1/2 foot draft. My advice is two fold ... pay very careful attention to the navaids (and line up well in advance to entering the cut) and put on a bit more way than you might normally while approaching and in the cut (to provide rapid response to your steerage). Truth is not as bad as its reputation.

We went through south for the first time in January. As others say watch the ATONs and you should be fine. Timing tide can make it more comfortable depending on your depth. There is a good ICW group on Facebook if you search for it.

Active Captain has helpful input too.