Day 52 - 85/ 727 Statutory Miles: Charleston, SC

Our Route from Lady's Island, SC to Charleston, SC

Watts Cut

We weren't sure if we would make Charleston in one day.  Not because of the distance, but because of the timing of the tides.  There are two areas along this route that were a concern.  Ashepoo - Coosaw Cutoff (East & West) and Watt's Cut.  We were most worried about Watts Cut.  All of the charts indicated less than 5 feet at low tide, and low tide was ~ 12:30pm.  We got up at the butt crack of dawn and were on our way just before 7am, which put us at Ashepoo about 1 hour into low tide and Watts cut @ 3 hours into low tide giving us + 2.5 ft, which was just enough to get through.  We have the depth alarm set for 5ft and it went off about a dozen times just toward the end of Watts Cut. From here on it was supposed to be ok regardless of the tide.

A few hours later we passed by John's Island and some kayaking spots that we have only arrived at by land;

Beach we've Kayaked to with Jess & Andrew a few times

Where the Florida crew launched from August 2014.

Just before Charleston Harbor, you pass through Elliots cut where you get your first view of the city.

About 1/2 way through our day we started to hear radio chatter about a "derelict" sailboat adrift, unmanned in the Ashley river in front of the marina.  As you pass under the bridge, the marina is just across the river and to the left.  We expected to see some commotion with this drifting boat to add to our docking experience, but the coast guard had dealt with it a few minutes earlier.  As the marina directed us to our slip; they confirmed our desire for a starboard tie-up. Then the conversation went something like this;

• Marina:  "Captain, do you have stern thrusters?"
• Captain:  "Yes stern & bow thrusters."
• Marina:  "Oh Good!"
• Marina:  "Come behind the Megadock, the long T-dock facing the river.  About 1/2 way down, it will open up, spin around and back down the alley.  You will pass a large yellow hull sport fish and a 47' Nordhaven.  You will see us waving at you - just back in between the two boats."

We are 43 feet the space that Captain flawlessly tucked the GS into is about 53'. 

We were also greeted by 2 volunteer dockhands; Mr. Middleton & the future Mrs. Middleton to assist with the lines. Later the same evening, they showed up with the most spectacular dinner for the two weary travelers.  Homemade lasagna, salad, bread, a bottle of wine and desert.  What a treat - Thanks guys!

So happy to be here for 6 weeks!