Roanoke Sound NC

[majorkong1]

I’m considering spots to launch my Catalina Capri 18 sound side near the Outer Banks. I know the spots upriver are better for sailing (Edenton, Oriental, Belhaven, etc) but this would be paired with a beach trip so the closer to the barrier islands the better.

I’m curious about how feasible it is to sail launch at Manteo and in the Roanoke Sound just north of Manteo. I would launch either from the Manteo Waterfront Public Boat Launch and take what appears to be a channel along the north side of Ice Plant Island - is this navigable? It doesn’t show up on any charts. If that wouldn’t work I’d pivot to the Washington Baum Bridge Launch and motor north to the deeper part of the sound.

I see that area is charted at a minimum depth of 6 ft, max 10 feet. My boat has a fixed wing keel and draws 3.75 feet. To me it seems to be cutting it close, especially since it’s a new boat for me and I have mostly sailed on lakes.

If it’s doable I’d appreciate any tips / things to watch out for. Also I’d love to get any other recs for places to sail near the OBX.

 

[Captain Larry-DH]

Yes, with that draft you can sail there in that area from A to B. No knowledge of the ramp.
I’ve transited the area several times in my Leopard 40 cat with 4.3 draft. Went firmly aground near buoy 2m outside Manteo and needed assistance from TowBoat US (make sure you have a tow policy in that area, lots of constantly shifting shoals). The bottom is generally sand, so you’re unlikely to incur structural damage, but it is hardpack in some areas. Ask the locals when you’re there.
Also, the buoys with a number and letter are the updates based on shifting shoals. They’re the ones to honor, vs the nearby number-only buoys that are fixed or in charted positions. Call the local TowBoat US or Seatow operators (depending on which service you choose) for reliable updates. The TowBoat US operator there is very caring and nice. I give him a 5+ star rating.

 

[Captain Larry-DH]

Just looked again at your post. I don‘t think you will get past that bridge right next to the ramp unless you can raise your mast after launch, from inside the boat or dockside with the boat in the water.