Cedar Creek - at anchor

Note the location of the fenders and the line leading from the bow to the dock.

We have a technique we use to get off a dock when there's wind or current pushing us into the dock. It will work especially well when there's boats close behind or ahead of us (no room to go forward or backwards). It consists of leading a line from the forward cleat to a cleat farther aft on the dock and placing fenders between the bow and the dock. Ann will then put the boat in forward and turn the wheel into the dock. This action causes the bow to push into the dock and the aft end to swing out away from the dock. When it's at a 45 degree angle, Ann puts the engine in reverse and I let go of the forward line. The boat then backs out away from the dock and we're clear of all other boats. It always works and we've used it dozens of times. Anyone cruising the ICW should know this technique.

I thought I would mention this since I was asked about my anchor in a posted comment. The bow on photo shows the fenders arranged for the technique mentioned and the 66 lb Spade anchor we have. Spade started the revolution of the new generation of anchors designed with a concave dish to "cup the bottom" instead of plowing it. The design provides quicker setting and a more powerful resistance to dragging. Since the Spade was introduced, two other anchors have been released: the Rocna and Manson Supreme which also feature the "cupping action" when set. All three are excellent anchors for all conditions on the ICW.  If you buy one of these new generation anchors, I would recommend buying one two sizes larger than recommended. It will almost never be needed but when you find yourself in a less than ideal anchorage with a severe storm coming, it's comforting to know that you're in good hands with an anchor rated for much worse conditions. To see a test of the Spade vs the Manson, click here. There are also numerous anchor tests where Spade comes out on top or near the top of the ratings. The pointed end of the Spade seems to provide a pivot point in reversing current situations typical of inlet anchorages. We've never had it pull out when the tide changes direction, even in 2 kts of current.

Not sure what this is  but it looks impressive

We took today casually and left around 8:30. Along the way to Cedar Creek we passed through Morehead City and saw two huge Navy ships, one was a destroyer and another was one I didn't recognize, it had lots of radar capability on board. The destroyer was all decked out with crew standing on board as they left the harbor.

Hoolie likes areas like this, a sandy beach nearby the anchored boat

It was a late departure for us but we still made our Cedar Creek anchorage by 4:00 pm. We are one of only two boats here. I don't know why it's not more popular. It has room for an armada and the holding is excellent. The depths are between 6 and 7 ft and there's very little tide, less than a foot and no current. It's very peaceful.

There's a shrimp boat dock farther in the cove

On Monday we're headed for RE Mayo to refuel and stock up on seafood, mainly local shrimp and scallops. The price is not bad either at $0.30/ft. There are no amenities, it is not a marina, just a working dock that rents out spare space to cruisers. You'll likely be on your own coming in, be prepared to fend for yourself. You may or may not have electric service. We like the place for the fresh seafood although it is flash frozen on the boat before returning to home port. We always stock up here for the trip north.