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.
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.