ICW Free Docks
GUIDE LISTING BY STATUTE MILE AND STATE
NORTH CAROLINA
34 StM to 340.8 StM
27.8 StM (Alternate Route) (Albemarle Loop)
Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, NC – The Welcome Center is home base for the Dismal Swamp State Park and Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, providing 150′ face dock with tie-up on a first-come, first-served basis for 24 hours. No electric is available. Amenities include boaters lounge, nearby groceries, 24 hours restrooms, fresh water, kayak and canoe rentals, exhibits, trails, Wi-Fi, gift shop, and museum. The area is pet friendly.
The Dismal Swamp Welcome Center is a Gateway Marina and part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. They offer their own promotions outside of the 48 hours free dockage. Contact them directly for their promotions. They do participate in the Passport Program. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: Welcome Center 252-771-8333
Phone: General information Corp of Engineers Norfolk District 757-201-7500
Phone: USCG Norfolk District 757-201-7642
Email Link: https://dismalswampwelcomecenter.com/contact/
Email: dscwelcome@camdencountync.gov
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/zPTujjDsbd22
Coordinates: 36°30'24.1"N 76°21'21.1"W or 36.506694, -76.355861
Visit: https://dismalswampwelcomecenter.com/
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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32.75 StM (Alternative Route)
South Mills Bulkhead, South Mills, NC – Located midway between the South Mills Lock and South Mills Bridge on the west bulkhead. Look for the yellow painted cleats. Depths are reported to be 5’-7’. Docking on the east side of the canal closer to the draw bridge in front of Eberneezer Baptist Church. There are large pilings along the 100’ bulkhead for tying off dock lines.
The small community offers a post office, country store, convenience store, and auto service center within easy walking distance. Boaters have reported staying here overnight and even for multiple days to avoid bad weather. The bulkheads are located between the draw bridge and locks, therefore you must coordinate your stay with the Lockmaster.
Phone South Mill Lockmaster: 252-771-5906
Email:
Coordinates: 36°26'38.1"N 76°19'35.2"W or 36.443920, -76.326431
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.44478168498058%2C-76.32814479477285&z=18
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/LHNi4bxX6aK2
Visit:
Images:
Updated: 11/17/2021
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FEATURED LISTING
50.6 StM (Alternate Route)
Mid-Atlantic Christian University, Elizabeth City, NC – 48 Hours Free Dockage is offered including access to showers and restrooms in the gym. Water, WiFi, and Library are available, but no electrical services are offered. WiFi is “MACU GUEST.” There are several university frequencies. The campus cafeteria is open to cruisers with all you can eat meals ranging in the $11 to $15 range. There is 300’ of dock and side tie for up to 15 boats of all sizes. The end slip has no width restriction. Contact the college for more information and ask for dockmaster Dan Smith or contact Dan directly.
Downtown Elizabeth City is a short walk or bike ride away. Available are many shops, restaurants, bars, CVS, a park and the Museum of the Albemarle.
Phone: College Information 252-334-2000
Phone: Dan Smith Cell 336-681-0575
Email: dan@mminc.org
Coordinates: 36°18'12.1"N 76°12'57.8"W or 36.303361, -76.216056
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.308030512224306%2C-76.22185601323055&z=16
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/Gp2q9Z5dPFU2
Visit: https://maritime-ministries.org/macu-docks/
Images: https://www.instagram.com/p/CWQXb0TrH2w/
Updated: 02/08/2024
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50.7 StM (Alternate Route)
Jennette Brothers Foodservices Distributors, Elizabeth City, NC – 48 hours free dockage is offered by this local business as part of their “Dock and Dine” program. Located directly on the ICW just north of the Elizabeth City Draw Bridge, boaters are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival and acknowledge by signature that you have insurance. You are also asked to complete a survey of a local restaurant. Pets are not allowed. There is no water or electricity available. Gate to the business is locked at night limiting access to and from the property. Boaters wanting to stay out later can dinghy a couple hundred yards down to the Town Docks in the town center.
Phone: 252-338-2187
Email:
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/YD6JpSyHVgH2
Coordinates: 36°18'06.5"N 76°13'03.5"W or 36.301806, -76.217639
Visit: http://www.jennettebrothers.com/
FEATURED LISTING
51 StM (Alternate Route)(Albemarle Loop)
Elizabeth City Mariners’ Wharf, Slips, & Waterfront Park, NC – There is no community along the entire ICW that prides itself as boater friendly as Elizabeth City. The Harbor of Hospitality offers 48-hour complimentary dockage at two locations in the downtown area (Bulkhead and Slips) and a third location at the adjacent Waterfront Park. Restrooms and showers are adjacent to the docks. Located on the Pasquotank River, and Dismal Swamp Route, Elizabeth City’s hospitality to boaters is legendary. Elizabeth City Rose Buddies often greet cruisers with a rose and a warm welcome to the city. Wine and cheese receptions are held by the Rose Buddies on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons on the Waterfront.
Amenities (some at additional cost) include Restrooms/Showers, Groceries/Shopping, Laundry – Nearby, Fresh Water, WIFI, Restaurant – Nearby Bank/ATM – Nearby, Museums – Nearby, Pet Friendly, Theater – Nearby, Rental Cars- Nearby, Retail Wine/Beer, Mobile Repair Service, Art Gallery Nearby.
Elizabeth City is also part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: 252-335-5330 or 855-842-9559
Email: https://visitelizabethcity.com/contact/
Coordinates for Bulkhead: 36°17'56.2"N 76°13'05.7"W or 36.298944, -76.218250
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.30206003211791%2C-76.2249404380665&z=16
Link to Google Map for Bulkhead: https://goo.gl/maps/YxHh4hWP9o32
Coordinates for Slips: 36°17'54.5"N 76°13'06.5"W or 36.298472, -76.218472
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.30206003211791%2C-76.2249404380665&z=16
Link to Google Map for Slips: https://goo.gl/maps/QLLmFzDi1V92
Coordinates for Waterfront Park: 36°17'50.1"N 76°13'04.3"W or 36.297250, -76.217861
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.30206003211791%2C-76.2249404380665&z=16
Link to Google Map for Waterfront Park: https://goo.gl/maps/Tr14FAjQ18N2
Visit: https://visitelizabethcity.com/
Or: Legend of the Rose Buddies Video https://youtu.be/Jbai3K1ZEmU
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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70 StM (Albemarle Loop)
Hertford Bay Marina, NC – Located on the Perquimans River 32.5 miles west of ICW 70 StM the marina was completed in 2015 and includes 9 slips with water, 30 & 50 amp shore power, and sewage pump out. The marina can accommodate a wide range of transient vessels and is located one block from the Historic Downtown with restaurants, shops, hardware, and a convenience store that has groceries. Access to Hertford is limited by a 33’ fixed vertical bridge just east of town on the Perquimans River. If you can clear the fixed bridge, there is also a swing bridge that must be negotiated to enter the town harbor.
Hertford Bay Marina is part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: 252-426-1969
Phone After Hours: 252-426-5751
Email: http://townofhertfordnc.com/top-menu/contact
Coordinates: 36°11'29.4"N 76°28'00.4"W or 36.191500, -76.466778
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.19611154949693%2C-76.46784523560845&z=16
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/vGKee8bVBpS2
Visit: http://townofhertfordnc.com/
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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75 StM
Manteo Waterfront Marina/ Municipal Free Docks
Located 22.65 StM East of ICW 75 StM and less than one mile from Roanoke Sound on North Carolina’s historic Outer Banks, Manteo Waterfront is adjacent to the Waterfront Marina. The Town of Manteo provides free overnight dockage with no services on a space available basis. The bulkheads are 140’ and 50’. Boats may also dock on either side of the 60’ dock leading out to the Waterfront Gazebo. Depths of approximately 7’ are reported at the Gazebo dock and the 50’ adjacent Bulkhead. Depths diminish to 4.5’ along the 140’ bulkhead approaching the lighthouse dock.
Boats may anchor between the Waterfront Gazebo and Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and take their dinghy to
the dock. Depth at the 110’ bulkhead to the left or SW of the lighthouse are too shallow for most boats but sufficient for dinghies to dock. Per Cam Sail on October 25, 2017, docks out to the lighthouse only provide 4.5' draft and are used mainly by power boats and shoal draft sailboats.
The Free Docks are part of the Waterfront Boardwalk and adjacent to the Downtown Waterfront Playground and George Washington Creef Park. Expect lots of friendly locals and visitors walking the Boardwalk. Downtown Manteo with many shops and restaurants is just a block away. A grocery store, laundry, and hardware store are approximately a half mile away.
Dockmaster Phone: 252-473-3320
Cell Phone: Main number above transfers to dockmaster’s cell number.
Waterfront Operations Phone: 252-475-1750
Email: Marina@manteonc.gov
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=35.91359744318032%2C-75.6706112653595&z=16
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/FcG5rn3Vjz82
Coordinates: 35°54'31.4"N 75°40'06.7"W or 35.908722, -75.668528
Visit: https://www.manteonc.gov/departments/waterfront-operations
Or Visit: http://www.townofmanteo.com/marina
Or Visit: https://www.manteonc.gov/
Last Updated: 11/12/2021
75 StM (Alternate Route)(Albemarle Loop)
Columbia Municipal Docks, NC – 25 StM west of the ICW 75 StM. Located in the Scuppernong River in the heart of Columbia, cruisers will find a friendly and welcoming town with a visitors’ center, restaurants, shopping, museum, hardware store, grocery store, and a winery all within a short walking distance. Also available are restrooms, showers, 30 & 50 amp electric, propane, water and pump-out services.
Columbia Municipal Docks is part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: 252-796-2781
Email: https://www.townofcolumbianc.com/index.asp?Type=DYNAFORM&SEC={DCFEC492-F0CF-49D0-93A3-48EBEDBC5F91}
Coordinates: 35°55'02.8"N 76°15'16.0"W or 35.91743, -76.25443
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=35.99838278932822%2C-76.3621452317871&z=12
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/GLTeCGUtt4k
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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75 StM (Albemarle Loop)
Albemarle Plantation Marina, NC – 25 StM miles west of the ICW 75 StM. Located at the mouth of Yeopim Creek on the northern shore of North Carolina's Albemarle Sound, Albemarle Plantation Marina welcomes cruisers to visit their private boating and golfing community. In addition to a first class marina amenities include tennis courts, salt water pool, hot tub, pool house, showers, golf course, Dockside Café, clubhouse restaurant, bar and grill, pro shop, bocce courts, horseshoe courts, fitness center, exercise trail, and children's playground. Cruisers consider this to be one of the top marinas on or off the ICW with legendary hospitality.
Albemarle Plantation Marina is part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Per Vicki Seymour on 11/29/19, “Stayed at the Plantation Marina. Little out of the way and not too close to stores etc. But thoroughly relaxing. People all very friendly.”
Phone: 252-426-4037
Email: Dockmaster@AlbemarlePlantation.com
Coordinates: 36°05'03.0"N 76°24'22.8"W or 36.08417, -76.40633
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.124584853079575%2C-76.36901168686522&z=13
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/cmkwo6FcDMw
Visit: https://www.albemarleplantationmarina.com/
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images: Instagram link here
Updated: 02/08/24
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75 StM (Albemarle Loop)
Edenton Harbor, NC – 40 StM miles west of the ICW 75 StM. Located in the Edenton Bay on the Pembroke Creek, Edenton Harbor, or town dock is overlooked by the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse in the old picturesque Edenton. Once the colonial capital of North Carolina, Edenton offers visitors a Museum Trail where you can experience 300 years of well-preserved history in this friendly town. Edenton Harbor offers cruisers restroom and shower facilities along with car service to grocery stores and laundry services. The town docks are within easy walking distance of restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, a hardware store, movie theater, and the Historic Edenton State Historic Site Visitor Center. Guided trolley and walking tours are available daily. The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center is open to the public seven days a week and is a must see museum and gift shop on the waterfront. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available.
Edenton Harbor is part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: 252-482-2832
Or cell: 252-337-4488
Email: edenton.harbor@edenton.nc.gov
Coordinates: 36°03'21.5"N 76°36'36.9"W or 36.056263, -76.610229
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.139071920492%2C-76.63370907557801&z=12
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/jorCjf4B9n12
Visit: http://visitedenton.com/edenton-town-harbor#site-harbor
Or: http://visitedenton.com/edenton-town-harbor
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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75 StM (Albemarle Loop)
Mackey’s Marina, NC – 40 miles west of the ICW StM 75. Located on the deep Kendrick (or Mackey’s) Creek approximately 1 mile off the Albemarle Sound’s southern shore. The marina offers a variety of boat services, including a Travel Lift, a Marine store, as well as casual dining at The Landing Restaurant. Mackey’s Marina is one of the newer members of the Albemarle Loop offering 48 hours Free Dockage.
Phone: 252-793-5031
Email: https://mackeysmarina.com/contact
Coordinates: 35°56'01.2"N 76°36'29.4"W or 35.933664, -76.608152
Link to ICW Free Dock Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=35.935542843774115%2C-76.61184669076843&z=16
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/LFYj6FouG7dSMUFL7
Visit: https://mackeysmarina.com/
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/brochures
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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75 StM (Albemarle Loop)
The 51 House @ Wharf Landing in Edenton, NC – Located 45 west of ICW 75 StM on the Chowan River at the base of the Highway 17 bridge near Edenton The 51 House is a very popular traditional American Restaurant overlooking the Albemarle Sound in the Wharf Landing development.
The restaurant appears to be temporarily closed. The phone number is no longer valid. Status of the Free Dock is unknown. ICW Free Docks requests information as to whether the Free Docks are still available for use. Reference the maps linked below for exact location of the docks. This listing will be updated as new information becomes available.
Phone: 252-482-2500
Email: reservations@the51house.com
Coordinates: 36°03'12.1"N 76°40'56.1"W or 36.05337, -76.68226
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/hqD6kooKAQE2
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=36.053760464141774%2C-76.68308835535579&z=19
Visit: http://the51house.com/
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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75 StM (Albemarle Loop)
Plymouth Landing Marina, NC – Located 48 miles west of the ICW 75 StM on the Roanoke River. Plymouth is part of the North Carolina Inner Banks region and is seven miles up the Roanoke River from Albemarle Sound. There is a fixed bridge of 50’ between the Albemarle Sound and Plymouth. The town docks are located at the Roanoke River Lighthouse & Museum and offer free electric, water, and laundry. Visitor will enjoy the small hospitable town with local cafes, shops, and museums. A grocery store is located 1.25 mile from the town docks.
Plymouth Landing Marina is part of the Albemarle Loop of marinas. A free dockage coupon is valid for one 2-day visit per marina unless other arraignments are made with the marina. Loopers who cruise the Albemarle Sound earn points by staying at LOOP member marinas. Each stay, free or paid visit, counts towards rewards in the LOOP Passport Program. Visit the Albemarle Loop web site for additional information.
Phone: 252 217-2204
Email: plymouth.marina.nc@gmail.com
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/GfZzgyFbsVG2
Coordinates: 35°52'00.3"N 76°45'13.9"W or 35.86676, -76.75385
Visit: http://www.visitplymouthnc.com/
Or: http://www.roanokeriverlighthouse.com/
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/marinas.html
Or: https://albemarleloop.com/index.html
135.3 StM
Belhaven, NC - Located 3 miles off the ICW 135.3 StM Belhaven Town Docks at Cooperage Landing on Pantego Creek are free for up to three days on a first come basis! Do not confuse these docks with the Belhaven Town Docks at Wynn’s Gut which are not free docks. The Cooperage Landing free docks are located about 100 yards past R12 on the north shore. The fixed docks are newly constructed with finger piers and located within a 5 block distance of the town center and less than a mile from a grocery store, numerous restaurants, a bank, fuel, propane, and a drug store. A boater’s lounge and Wi-Fi are available at the local Chamber of Commerce located about 3-4 blocks from the Cooperage Landing Town Docks. Belhaven has a reputation as a very friendly town and has declared itself “the birthplace of the Intracoastal Waterway.”
Phone: 252-943-3055
Or: After hours Harbor Master Gregg Baker 252-944-0066
Email: whiteglove.belhaven@gmail.com
Coordinates: 35°32'32.3"N 76°37'49.1"W or 35.542493, -76.630349
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=35.54482678049496%2C-76.63078953320465&z=17
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/vE5SXBrkLvR2
Visit: http://belhavennc.us/post/5/town-dock.html
Or: http://belhavennc.us/?page_id=1250
Images:
Updated: 02/08/2024
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145 StM
Bath, NC – Located 18.5 StM miles off the ICW 145 StM the North Carolina State Fee Docks allows boaters to stay three days free of charge. There is no water or electric. Boaters are required to fill out a permit application (no charge) at the Visitors Center. The dock is located near the historic district and adjacent to a small scenic park. Restaurants and a grocery store are within walking or biking distance. Email sent to Leigh Swain for information on Bath free dock on 10/17/18.
Phone: 252-923-3971
Email: leigh.swain@ncdcr.gov
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/N5fZoRFgXvK2
Coordinates: 35°28'35.8"N 76°48'55.0"W or 35.4766, -76.81528
Visit: http://www.nchistoricsites.org/bath/
145 StM
Washington, NC – Located 32 StM off the ICW 145 StM on the Pamlico River, the Washington Waterfront Docks offers 48 hours free dockage along five 80-foot parallel bulkhead docks at the east end of the marina with depths alongside up to 10-12 feet. Longer stays are chargeable at a rate of $.75 per foot per day. Water and electricity are not available at the free dock location. There is an anchorage and free dinghy dock available. Dockage includes access to private boaters' heads and showers located in the lighthouse. Laundry facility and pump out are available for a $5 fee. Free Wi-Fi is available. Free slips are available on a first come first served basis. Reservations can be made for slips with power and water connections.
Washington Waterfront and Main Street shopping including 9 restaurants, 2 bakeries, 2 coffee shops, and 2 wine stores are all located within 2 blocks of the docks. Twice weekly free concert and jam sessions at held at the historic Theater. Three grocery stores are approximately 1 to 1-1/2 mile from dock, and some provisions like bread, milk, eggs and staples are available at a Dollar Store which is 4 blocks from the docks. West Marine is less than ½ mile from the Waterfront Docks.
The Washington Waterfront Docks offers free dockage with power and water to those boats that come to the docks for the entire month of December and participate in the Harbor Walk of Lights, which is the town’s alternative to a Christmas Flotilla and draws many people who walk the waterfront to look at the decorated boats. Reservations for the Harbor Walk of Lights should be made at least a month in advance of arrival as all available transient slips are generally full. The Dockmaster will allow boats to come in a few days early so they have time to decorate and stay through New Year’s. Decorated boats participate in an online and paper ballot contest and prizes are awarded to the winning boats. The two commercial marinas along the waterfront also participate in the contest but may not offer free slips.
The Waterfront Dock office is in the lighthouse at the west end of the waterfront. Dock attendants are on duty from 8:00AM to at least sunset every day except Christmas. Contact the Dockmaster Rick Brass on VHF 16 or the cell phone for information on wind and current, and a Dock Attendant will meet you at the dock to help tie up.
Phone: 252-940-1231
Or Cell: 252-944-6661
Email: rbrass@washingtonnc.gov
Coordinates: 35°32'34.2"N 77°03'32.2"W or 35.54284, -77.05895
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/2/viewer?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=35.542731080085666%2C-77.05834912442377&z=18
Link to Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/95bLSE7qMTN2
Visit: https://www.washingtonnc.gov/visitors/dockage_along_the_washington_waterfront.php
Or: https://whda.org/harborwalkoflights/
Images: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqiLtDtunXO/
Updated: 04/02/2023
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180 StM
Oriental Town Dock, NC – Located on the Neuse River directly on the ICW offers a free dock with 48 hours maximum stay within any 30 day period. There are two free docks, Town Dock 1 and Town Dock 2 available. Town Dock 1 located on the Hodges Street bulkhead in Raccoon Creek and is a finger pier T off the bulkhead with space for a boat on either side. Depths are reported to be slightly deeper on the right side. Town Dock 2 is the new dock and is also located in Raccoon Creek just to the right of the Oriental Marina fuel dock. It is about 85 feet long and has room for at least 4 30-35 ft boats. Fully functional handicap accessible restrooms are available. No electric or water at the free docks and generators are not allowed. Free self-pump out and Wi-Fi are available. A marine store and marine consignment store, post office, restaurants, hardware store, and West Marine Express store within easy, safe biking and walking distance. Piggy Wiggly, located ½ mile north of the Town Docks, offers free shuttle service. The Bean coffee house (currently closed due to Hurricane Florence but should be open again by November 1) across Hodges Street from Town Dock 1 is a cruiser’s favorite as is the Farmers Market, open on Saturday only, located 100 yard west of Town Dock 1 on Hodges Street. All information verified with Town Manager Diane H. Miller on 10/18/18.
Phone: 252-249-0555
Email: admin@townoforiental.com
Link to Map Town Dock 1: https://goo.gl/maps/ebW2nG5M3wA2
Link to Map Town Dock 2: https://goo.gl/maps/N9jDRYn96VC2
Coordinates Town Dock 1: 35°01'29.6"N 76°41'44.1"W or 35.0249, -76.69559
Coordinates Town Dock 2: 35°01'27.5"N 76°41'44.5"W or 35.02431, -76.69569
Visit: http://www.townoforiental.com/
Or Town Dock 1: https://www.townoforiental.com/index.asp?SEC=0143EBEF-A044-44BE-86C4-915AE37E90C8&Type=B_BASIC
Or Town Dock 2: https://www.townoforiental.com/index.asp?SEC=4794998C-83FC-4070-862D-8488214B1952&Type=B_BASIC
Or HarborCam: https://towndock.net/harborcam
185 StM
New Bern Union Point Park, NC – Located 24.1 StM off the ICW at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers in New Bern the 6 acre park with restrooms, picnic table, grills, and playground within easy walking distance to the Historic District with restaurants and shopping venues. Docks are available on a first come, first served basis for day use up to 4 hours only. Overnight docking is not permitted. ICW Contributor Janice and Steve reported that there are three finger docks available.
Foster Hughes, Director of Parks & Recreation, reported to ICW Free Docks on 01/24/19 that the docks remain closed due to damage from Hurricane Florence and are being rebuilt. He anticipates reopening in the late summer or early fall of 2019. This listing will be updated when new information is available.
Phone: 252-639-2915
Email: hughesf@newbernnc.gov
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/oii77cSHhGP2
Coordinates: 35°06'11.5"N 77°02'07.9"W or
Visit: https://www.newbern.com/union-point-park.html
Or: http://www.newbern-nc.org/
205 StM
Morehead City Otis Landing Day Docks, NC – Located .6 mile off the ICW the free dock adjacent to Big Rock Landing is limited to 4 hours and no overnight docking. The dock is conveniently located overlooking the Morehead City waterfront and Sugarloaf Island, and is within convenient walking distance to banks, shops, and many fine restaurants. Ottis Landing Deck, Weigh Station, & Day Docks have 6 slips for boats up to 26’ boats, and the pier across the end can accommodate larger boats. Ottis Landing is located between Southern Salt Restaurant and Morehead City Ferry Service, directly across from the Blue Marlin Fountain. There is a large wooden deck between the docks and sidewalk and 8 picnic tables. Information submitted by Dock Master on 10/20/18.
Phone Parks Department: 252-726-5083
Or Dock Master Lee Everett: 252-725-5025
Email: Lee.Everett@moreheadcitync.org
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/QcBJApZHfsx
Coordinates: 34°43'10.5"N 76°42'43.0"W or34.71958, -76.71194
Visit: https://moreheadcitync.org/home-parks-recreation/public-water-access/
205 StM
Morehead City S. 6th Street Day Docks, NC – Located 1 mile off the ICW, the free 90’ dock at South 6th Street is limited to 4 hours and no overnight docking. The dock is conveniently located in the Morehead City waterfront and within walking distance to banks, shops, and many fine restaurants. Information verified by Dock Master on 10/20/18.
Phone Parks Department: 252-726-5083
Or Dock Master Lee Everett: 252-725-5025
Email: Lee.Everett@moreheadcitync.org
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/69jnb4115o12
Coordinates: 34°43'11.6"N 76°42'35.9"W or 34.7199, -76.70996
Visit: https://moreheadcitync.org/home-parks-recreation/public-water-access/
283.5 StM
Wrightsville Beach NC Wynn Plaza Public Dock - Located approximately 1.5 miles off the ICW or 2.4 miles north of the Masonboro Inlet at the corner of Banks Channel Causeway Bridge and Waynick Boulevard. There are two 35’ and one 50’ floating T docks providing room for 6 boats. There is no water or electricity at the dock. Boats cannot be left on the dock overnight; however convenient anchorage is nearby. Public restroom facilities are located across Waynick Boulevard, but there are no showers. A gazebo overlooks Banks Channel and the dock offers a great location to launch a kayak or canoe. The municipal Free Dock provides mariners an easy access to the downtown business district including many restaurants and bars, a small grocery store, and ATM. Beach access to Wrightsville Beach is less than ¼ mile away. Thanks to ICW Free Dock contributor Miata Daves who first reported the location of Wynn Plaza Public Dock. Miata visited the dock on 12/10/18 and stated that he draws 5' and was able to dock without a problem. Contact Katie Ryan, the Recreation Program Supervisor of Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation for additional information.
Phone: 910-256-7925
Email: kryan@towb.org
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/x7PkPoCtDhK2
Coordinates: 34°12'30.2"N 77°47'49.1"W or 34.20838, -77.79697
Visit: https://www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com/wrightsville-beach/things-to-do/
New Listing as of July 1, 2021
299 StM
Wilmington, NC – 15.4 miles off ICW, directly on the waterfront, Wilmington City Docks, located in four areas along the waterfront, became self-service Free Docks only as of July 1, 2021. Water and power are provided. Overnight docking is prohibited.
Visitors Center is located near Market Street Landing M Docks, which includes 200' of floating dock space with 30 amp & 50 amp service. Coastline C Docks include 11 slips, floating dock with 30 amp electric service. Hilton H and I Docks include 450' of floating dock space with 30 amp & 50 amp electric service. Public restrooms are available from 7:00AM to 10:00PM.
Contact Doug Lewis at Wilmington Parks & Recreation for additional information.
Phone: Doug Lewis 910-341-7852
Email: douglas.lewis@wilmingtonnc.gov
Link to Map Coastline C Docks: https://goo.gl/maps/YqyrJvW8koYdqqoq9
Coordinates Coastline C Docks: 34°14'28.0"N 77°57'10.5"W or 34.24110, -77.95291
Link to Map Hilton I Docks: https://goo.gl/maps/Eiy7oJvWcdydMvxZ6
Coordinates Hilton I Docks: 34°14'21.3"N 77°57'06.6"W or 34.23926, -77.95184
Link to Map Hilton H Docks: https://goo.gl/maps/y9Yc6NqTJwZbjMGeA
Coordinates Hilton H Docks: 34°14'18.5"N 77°57'05.0"W or 34.23848, -77.95139
Link to Map Market Street M Docks: https://goo.gl/maps/XaNeZEPn9SfbgYS9A
Coordinates Market Street M Docks: 34°14'06.9"N 77°57'00.1"W or 34.23526, -77.95004
Visit: https://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/departments/parks-recreation/docking
Or: https://visitwilmingtonnc.com/wilmington-nc-tourist-information/
309 StM
Southport, NC – The Southport City Dock was closed in 2016 due to damage from Hurricane Matthew and reopened in May 2021 for walking traffic only. The finger docks will be rebuilt in phase two of the reconstruction project with an anticipated reopening to boaters in 2022. As of September 2022, there is no change in the status of the docks. ICW Free Docks will continue to monitor the status of the Southport City Dock and update this listing as needed.
Both waterfront restaurants in the same cove, Fishy Fishy and Provisions Company, offer free overnight dockage (limited space) with meals, etc. No services. Suggest that you call ahead for availability.
Phone: Heather Hemphill – City of Southport Parks & Recreation Director 910-457-7810
Email: hhemphill@cityofsouthport.com
Phone: Provision Company: 910-457-0654
Phone: Fishy Fishy: 910-457-1881
Link to ICW Free Docks Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/2/edit?mid=1JxZnWlIXs-hEpV86ALsvTWoz_s6E3tYK&ll=33.92610944151309%2C-78.02189035194102&z=15
Link to Map City Dock: https://goo.gl/maps/kwccjHRLrxG2
Coordinates: 33°55'03.9"N 78°01'29.8"W or 33.91775, -78.02494
Link to Map Provision Company: https://goo.gl/maps/azgnPWys9iA2
Coordinates for Provision Company: 33°54'58.5"N 78°01'23.7"W or 33.91626, -78.02324
Link to Map Fishy Fishy: https://goo.gl/maps/XjtfLmhiNp12
Coordinates for Fishy Fishy: 33°55'02.2"N 78°01'24.7"W or 33.91728, -78.02354
Visit: https://cityofsouthport.com/parks-and-recreation/
Status of City Dock May 2021: https://cityofsouthport.com/city-dock-ribbon-cutting/
Or: https://www.wect.com/2021/04/29/southport-announces-re-opening-city-dock/
Or: Provision Company: http://www.provisioncompany.com/
Or: Fishy Fishy: http://www.fishyfishycafe.com
Images: https://www.instagram.com/p/CkD7aVUr_4x/
Updated: 10/23/2022
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