SNIP: This is a major issue for people transiting the ICW through North Carolina. END-SNIP. Doesn't have to be if you're still below or on the Neuse (or the Pamlico/Pungo River junction). Instead of ICW, go Pamlico Sound from Oriental/Broad Creek to Ocracoke (42 miles). Overnight at the CoE docks there and visit the little museum. Rent a glof cart and hit the lighthouse and town. Then head to Manteo (67 mies), and visit Roanoke Island Plantation and the Elizabeth II. Fabulous little town, too. Then, from Manteo to Elizabeth City (46 miles). 10 miles shorter than the ICW from Oriental to Elizabeth City; no bridges. Pamlico is more open, so check weather. Ocracoke and Manteo are great stops! Well worth the "detour." Jim Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary Currently at Rock Creek, Pasadena, MD Monk 36 Hull #132 MMSI #367042570 AGLCA #3767 MTOA #3436