Help w/NOAA chart Lower Chesapeake Bay

[rgranger]

Hello All

I've been studying charts in preparation for a trip this spring (it is raining, cold and wet outside so -- what else would I do?)

And I found what appears to be a dredged channel between Cape Charles and Fisherman's Island at the N end of the Chesapeake bay entrance. The channel appears to be well marked and connects the bay to the inner passage of the DelMarVa peninsula. My problem is this. On the chart there is a citation that reads

"Restricted Area - (see note L)" However I cannot find note L on the chart. I've found H, I, J & K and M but not L.

Does anyone know if there are issues with using that channel or is the restriction for the shoals only?

Thanks in advance,

Rob

 

[Paul Mermelstein]

On my chart, Note L only says to contact the Army Corps of Engineers for latest info. Nothing else.

BTW, if I am looking at the same channel, it is only 3.5 ft in spots. Too shallow for me.

 

[TDudley]

I see the same note as Paul. It does give a number to contact. (757) 201-7653/7652.

I see those types of notes on other Chesapeak Bay charts. I think they have a lot to do with Military operations or cargo anchorages.

Hope that helps.

 

[rgranger]

Thanks Paul

I guess I'll have to do that.

I have a swing keel and this would make a nice "duck out of weather" route if I needed it. So, I wanted to see if it is usable.

 

[rgranger]

Thanks TDudly

I'll tuck that number away.

r

 

[Ross]

Chart 12222 seems to show a restricted area on each side of the bridge tunnel complex for its entire length. Note "L" probably explains the restriction. It is not marked prohibited so I wouldn't be much concerned

 

[Ross]

Note"L" is located at the Norfolk end of the bridge-tunnel on chart 12222

 

[catsailor]

Ross is correct; it is a restriction of a general sort that will not affect your navigation.

I have used this channel a number of times to access the eastern shore and inner passage. With your boat you should have no troubles, though I can imagine you may have to lift the board a few times if you get need the channel edge at low tide (I did--I had a Stiletto 27 at the time). In fact, it is a great way for a small boat to round what can be a troublesome point in rough weather.

The bridge is EXACTLY 40 feet; I scraped my VHF antenna on it.

Check my blog; you may find some interesting stuff.

The only real regulatory "restrictions to navigation" on the VIP (eastern shore inside passage) occur near Wallops Island, where passages can be closed during launch events (rather rare and short in duration).

Markers are frequently changed in this area; I suggest you review the Coast Pilot for accurate details.

 

[rgranger]

Thanks CatSailor

I was hoping you would see my post. I have your cruiser's guide for the area and it is a great read. I'll definitely put this passage on my list of hide-y-holes.

(I can't wait until May!!!)

r