The Georgia Low Country
18 November 2007 | Wahoo Creek, Ga.
Jim Lea
The ICW in Georgia is noted for its sketchy spots, as the funding for maintenance is done on a state-by-state basis, and Georgia doesn't bother for some reason. That together with its large (7') tides means that it's necessary to do some planning to make it through. So yesterday, we didn't leave Thunderbolt until about 9 am. We left in company with Paul and Deb French, form Midland Ont. who we were tied up next to in Thunderbolt. Fortunately for us, high tide is around noon, so we have high water for a good part of the day. We set off down the Wilmington River, against the current, then across into the Skidaway, where we had it with us, and so it went all day. After about 2 hours, we passed the mouth of the Moon River, made famous by Johnny Mercer in his song. Down Ossabaw Sound and into Hell Gate, a short passage notorious for shoaling. But by following Skipper Bob's advice (a valuable guide for such info.) we made it through. Crossing St Catherine's Sound, we discussed heading offshore, as it is the last navigable opening until Brunswick, but we decided that with little wind offshore, and the beauty of the Georgia marshes, we would stay inside. The day continued from one river to the next through marsh and islands, mostly uninhabited. By day's end, we were in Wahoo creek with a veritable fleet of friends. With Seabird, Bees Knees, Wereplayn (Paul & Deb), Madcap (who we first saw in New York,)Strathspey and us, we met on Strathspey for a short round of drinks and nibbles, and a chorus of Moon River. On Madcap, from Ottawa, we met Jim Bissle and Beth Lusby. Jeannie remembered Jim from Mt Allison days, so they had a great gab. All in all, quite a fleet and a hectic social schedule! In a flat calm night anchored off Wahoo Island in the marshes, we had a beautiful evening. Today, we're headed for St Simons Island and the site of the Battle of Bloody Marsh!