Spicemariner
regular
Reged: 08/08/2003
Posts: 93
Loc: USA
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If anyone has we would be obliged with any info. At 64ft this bridge could be a problem as we can't seem to find out if there is a tidal range at all in this area.
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Saltyjohn
regular
Reged: 06/09/2004
Posts: 1860
Loc: UK
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Wilkerson Bridge at mile 125.5 is 64', as you rightly say, but there is no tidal current in that area. However, there is wind induced 'tide' which can effect clearance up to about 1', so go on a calm day!
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John
http://www.saltyjohn.co.uk
Uncommon cruising kit: Metz, Loos, Bandit, Bilge-Mate...
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SimonJ
regular
Reged: 10/08/2001
Posts: 153
Loc: Boat in Antigua for hurricane ...
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Came through last Autumn followed by catamaran with 62ft mast who cleared it. Was able to provide read out from base of bridge which gives clearance at the time. Level affected by wind and pressure more than anything - I understand.
As a matter of interest we observed a large ketch with approx 75ft mast come the whole way down the ICW. He got through fixed bridges by inclining his big boat. He acheived this by hoisting 2 waterbags up a halyard and swinging them out when necessary.
I think you would make it - goodluck. (I admit to 52ft 6in, I confess)
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SimonJ
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AndrewB
regular
Reged: 07/06/2001
Posts: 3455
Loc: California dreamin'
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Went through with a 58' mast this time last year, it didn't seem anything of an issue. I would guess it offers a full 64' at normal water levels, only one less than the the ICW standard of 65'. We'd been stuck at nearby Belhaven for a couple of weeks, if the tide was 6" there I'd be surprised, though the water did back up with a strong southerly wind.
The real problem in that area was the shallow spit that has extended into the line of the ICW at the northern exit of the Alligator River. The local marina was making a lot of money towing off yachts that had gone aground. Go slow and stick to the eastern side of the channel.
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PS SimonJ, you actually saw the yacht using water balls to get under ICW bridges? I've seen the picture of it at Vero Beach, looks photoshopped to me (see below). I can't see how this arrangement could possibly be stable. Even if the boom was used to hold out the balls, its hard to believe this would work.
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