The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW) is a continuous and mostly protected navigable route from Norfolk, Virginia to Miami, Florida. Originally conceived in 1802 for commercial use, today it is primarily used by recreational vessels, however light-draft commercial vessels along with small tugs pulling barges will make use of the AICW to avoid exposed open ocean passages. The AICW is made up of natural rivers, bays, and sounds, connected by a series of man-made canals where necessary.

The route is maintained by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and is measured in statute miles at 1,090 miles long, beginning at mile marker zero (MM “0.0”) in Norfolk, Virginia. When combined with the Chesapeake Bay, a boater can cruise from Baltimore, Maryland to Miami, covering a total of 1,282 statute miles, or 1,114 nautical miles.

Through the Chesapeake Bay and AICW a boater will experience scenic natural beauty, interesting pieces of our Nation’s history and some of the Southeast’s most vibrant Cities.

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  1. - Estimated Mileage: 0

    HarborView Marina

    Baltimore, MD

    410-752-1122

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Harborview marina is located on the south side of Baltimore’s famed Inner Harbor. The marina is nestled against the trendy neighborhood of Federal Hill. The 280 slip marina offers a casual vibe with first class amenities that include a boater's lounge, gated piers, on site restaurants, including the award winning Tiki Barge, and free access to multiple pools and a workout facility. The marina is within walking distance to the Inner Harbor, the stadiums along with many restaurants and attractions

  2. - Estimated Mileage: 66

    Safe Harbor Zahniser’s

    Safe Harbor Zahniser's Marina - Safe Harbor Zahniser's - Solomons Island, Maryland - Marinalife

    Solomons, MD

    410-326-2166

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Zahniser's Yachting Center is one of the most comprehensive marine facilities on the Chesapeake Bay; Located in the town center of Solomons Island, Maryland, Zahniser's is a full-service marina that blends the beauty of a pristine yacht club and the technical expertise of an award winning repair yard. It's the perfect starting point to enjoy the historic village of Solomons Island, either on foot or by bicycle. A destination not to miss - unwind, relax, and enjoy! The marina also has: WiFi, Courtesy Bicycles, a Recycling Center, a Sail Loft & Canvas Shop, Marine Surveyor, Sailing School & Yacht Charters. The marina can also haul vessels up to 70 tons.

  3. - Estimated Mileage: 62

    The Tides Marina

    Irvington, VA

    804-438-4418

    HIGHLIGHTS

    The Tides Inn Marina, 11 miles from Windmill Point on Carter’s Creek, is one of the most luxurious marinas on the Chesapeake Bay. Once docked on their private peninsula, you will have access to complimentary laundry, excellent shower and bath facilities, van and water taxi services, dining and lounges. The resort has a variety of dining options to choose from, all with their own unique style. . Relax and recharge with therapeutic treatments at the Journey Spa, or play golf at the Golden Eagle Golf Course. There is always an array of outdoor activities available including tennis, kayaking, croquet, and complimentary bicycles.

  4. - Estimated Mileage: 58

    Ocean Yacht Marina

    Portsmouth, VA

    757-321-7432

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Ocean Yacht Marina has unrestricted access from the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. OYC has 1500' of alongside dockage for easy in and out of most vessels. They also have 122 slips, each with 60’ floating finger piers in a deep draft basin. The marina has a complete ship's store, laundry room, showers, and a 105' fuel dock and pump out station. Also available are 30, 50, and 100 amp service, Cable TV, phone and Internet access. Ocean Yacht Marina is located in downtown Portsmouth on the riverfront within walking distance to restaurants, specialty shops, museums, and concerts at Portsmouth's Harbor Center Pavilion.

  5. - Estimated Mileage: 41.5

    Coinjock Marina

    Coinjock, NC

    252-453-3271 ext 1

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Located conveniently on the Intracoastal Waterway at Mile Marker 50, the Coinjock Marina has been a longtime favorite for transient yachtsmen traveling north and south along the waterway. With all the amenities you would expect from a world class marina, the staff of Coinjock Marina demonstrates a willingness to accommodate your every need so that we make your stay a memorable one. With easy approach, alongside dockage, and a highly acclaimed dockside restaurant, you will soon see why thousands of visitors say that Coinjock Marina is truly one of their favorite stops.

  6. - Estimated Mileage: 31

    Alligator River Marina

    Columbia, NC

    252-796-0333

    HIGHLIGHTS

    The Alligator River Marina is located at the northern end of the Alligator-Pungo Canal, just north of the Alligator River bridge. The marina provides fuel, dockage and supplies. The marina is a welcome stop if you want to break up the long leg from Coinjock to Belhaven, North Carolina.

  7. - Estimated Mileage: 42

    Dowry Creek Marina

    Dowry Creek Marina - Belhaven, North Carolina - Marinalife

    Belhaven, NC

    252-943-2728

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Dowry Creek Marina, conveniently just 3 miles north of Belhaven, NC at AICW mile 132, is your first stop after the 20 mile Alligator River - Pungo River Canal. Dowry Creek offers protected, deepwater slips on the beautiful Upper Dowry Creek. Enjoy fabulous views from the porch of the ships's store or cool off in their swimming pool. You will enjoy their famous nightly get together in the clubhouse with fellow cruisers to swap stories, and reacquaint with old friends.

  8. - Estimated Mileage: 38

    River Dunes

    River Dunes in Oriental, North Carolina

    Oriental, NC

    252-249-4908

    HIGHLIGHTS

    River Dunes Marina offers one of the most protected basins along the Southeast coast. The award winning, well protected marina is engineered for boaters with floating docks, wide gangways, and full-length finger piers. Outstanding onshore amenities include a Harbor Club with fine and casual dining, pool and fitness center. With their courtesy car, you are a short 15 minute drive to the village of Oriental, the Sailing Capital of North Carolina. Within the village, you will find all of the provisioning and marine services a boater could need.

  9. - Estimated Mileage: 29

    Morehead City Yacht Basin

    Morehead City, NC

    252-726-6862 ext.3

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Morehead City and the adjacent town of Beaufort are the entry points to the Crystal Coast, an 85 mile stretch of barrier islands beginning at Cape Lookout National Seashore and extending south to Swansboro, North Carolina. Located just inside the easily navigable Beaufort Inlet, Morehead City is known for its great sport fishing.

  10. - Estimated Mileage: 39

    Swan Point Marina

    Sneads Ferry, NC

    910-327-1081

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway at mile marker 247, Swan Point is conveniently located in the fishing village of Sneads Ferry – just minutes from Topsail Island and Marine Corp Base of Camp Lejeune. Sneads Ferry is one of the largest fishing villages in North Carolina. Fishing trawlers annually catch over 385 tons of shrimp, 25 tons of flounder, and approximately 493 tons of other seafood like clams, scallops, mullet, spot, grouper, soft shell and hard shell crabs, sea bass, and more. The town holds an annual Shrimp Festival to honor the local seafood industry.

  11. - Estimated Mileage: 32

    Seapath Yacht Club

    Wrightsville Beach, NC

    910-256-3747

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Wrightsville Beach is North Carolina’s most accessible beach and known for its clear blue waters and spacious, clean beach. With an abundance of water sports and outdoor activities and a vibrant social scene, there’s never a shortage of something happening year-round. Kayak or paddle board, surf the area’s world-class waves, reel in a prize-worthy fish, or just enjoy the spectacular views during an evening harbor cruise. This walkable, village-like town is known for its welcoming, social community.

  12. - Estimated Mileage: 23

    Southport Marina

    Southport Marina - North Carolina Marinas - Marinalife

    Southport, NC

    910-457-9900

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Southport Marina is conveniently located directly on the Waterway and is a short walk to the Southport town center. Recently named "America's Happiest Seaside Town" by Coastal Living magazine, Southport is steeped in history and picturesque beauty. Southport has a charm that has not only attracted visitors, but the eye of the movie industry as well. Films such as "Safe Haven", "A Walk to Remember" and "The Secret Lives of Bees" all feature scenes shot in Southport. Fronting the Cape Fear River and the notorious Frying Pan Shoals, Southport has long been a port of haven for sea captains as far back as the 1700’s. Stroll the docks and have a crab-cake sandwich and steamed shrimp at one of several restaurants featuring outdoor dining on the waterfront.

  13. - Estimated Mileage: 39

    Barefoot Marina

    Barefoot Marina - North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Marinalife

    North Myrtle Beach, SC

    843-390-2011

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Barefoot Marina is located on the Waterway in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s preeminent summer vacation destination. Situated on 60 miles of beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, it is packed with family attractions, exciting theater shows and endless restaurants serving up almost anything you can imagine.

  14. - Estimated Mileage: 45

    Georgetown Landing Marina

    Georgetown, SC

    843-546-1776

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Georgetown, South Carolina is one of the Southeast’s best kept secrets. Georgetown is a quaint waterfront community, surrounded by live oak lined streets, Downtown Historic Georgetown is the 3rd oldest city in the state and is filled with history, charm and personality. Along Front Street and the Harborwalk, you will find unique one-of-a-kind stores and restaurants serving the areas fresh seafood It is well worth the slight detour off the Waterway to visit this charming village.

  15. - Estimated Mileage: 58

    Safe Harbor Charleston City

    Safe Harbor Charleston City - Safe Harbor Charleston City - Charleston, South Carolina - Marinalife

    Charleston, SC

    (843) 723-5098

    HIGHLIGHTS

    It is not a surprise that Charleston has been voted as a top destination city by numerous Travel magazines. The city is classic southern charm overlaid with an interesting international feel. It boasts to have some of the best restaurants in all of the world. The Mega-Dock at the Charleston City Marina is a great place to stay and see some of the finest cruising yachts.

  16. - Estimated Mileage: 82

    Harbour Town Yacht Basin

    Harbour Town Yacht Basin - Hilton Head - Marinalife

    Hilton Head Island, SC

    843-363-8335

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Harbour Town Marina places you right in the heart of this boot-shaped sea island. Hilton Head is truly a paradise nestled along the South Carolina coast. From beautiful beaches and world-class golf courses, from exceptional restaurants to high-energy water sports, Hilton Head has something for everyone.

  17. - Estimated Mileage: 23

    Isle of Hope Marina

    Savannah, GA

    912-354-8187

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Millions of visitors are drawn each year to Savannah's cobblestone streets and historic town square parks. The Isle of Hope Marina, which is located in its own unique historic setting is a short drive to the downtown area.

  18. - Estimated Mileage: 23

    Kilkenny Marina

    Richmond Hill, GA

    912-727-2215

    HIGHLIGHTS

    The AICW in Georgia has some of the largest tide swings and some of the most poorly maintained sections. Traveling at high tide only may be necessary for boats with more then a 4’ draft. This may mean short travel days, so the travel legs are short through this section. Kilkenny Marina is a welcome stop along a sparsely populated section of the Waterway. The staff is friendly and the Marker 107 restaurant next door is a hidden gem worth the stop alone. If you are required to run short days at high tide, anchoring on the Duplin River at Sapelo Island is the perfect stop. It is a well protected anchorage and it's easy to get the dogs ashore at the ferry dock. If your draft allows continue on to St. Simons Island below.

  19. - Estimated Mileage: 64

    Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles

    Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles - St. Simons Island, Georgia - Marinalife

    St. Simons Island, GA

    912-509-0969

    HIGHLIGHTS

    St. Simons Island is the hub of the Golden Isles, Georgia’s coastal island summer playground. Beautiful beaches and summer resorts draw many to these scenic barrier islands.

  20. - Estimated Mileage: 37

    Lang’s Marina

    St. Marys, GA

    912-882-4452

    HIGHLIGHTS

    St. Mary's rewards visiting boaters with much to like. A quiet park like setting to the downtown and a short 20 minute bike ride from the waterfront to most needs, including hardware, pharmacies, groceries and personal care services. You'll also find some of the friendliest folks of any town along the waterway.

  21. - Estimated Mileage: 34

    Fernandina Harbor Marina

    Fernandina Harbor Marina - Aerial - Florida Marina - Marinalife

    Fernandina Beach, FL

    904-310-3300

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Fernandina Beach is on Amelia Island at Florida's northeast border. Downtown Fernandina Beach offers boutique shopping and a range of unique restaurants. With 13 miles of pristine beaches, abundant wildlife and clear, calm waters, Amelia Island with its quaint charm has been a beloved destination for generations. Its upscale resorts and world-class spas combine with a charming collection of bed and breakfasts, historic sites and captivating festivals.

  22. - Estimated Mileage: 62

    Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor

    St. Augustine, FL

    904-829-5676

    HIGHLIGHTS

    St. Augustine, known as the Ancient City, is the oldest settlement of European explorers in what became the United States. It is also one of the most charming historic cities as well. Camachee Cove Marina is a very well protected marina with floating piers and a first class service yard on the property.

  23. - Estimated Mileage: 46

    Halifax Harbor Marina

    Daytona Beach, FL

    386-671-3601

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Best known for its beaches and race track, Daytona is also home to more than 60 renowned art and music festivals each year. Halifax Harbor Marina puts you in the center of all the action. Halifax Harbor Marina has floating piers in a well protected park-like setting.

  24. - Estimated Mileage: 58

    Titusville Marina

    Titusville Marina - Marinalife

    Titusville, FL

    321-383-5600

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Titusville, Florida is the perfect launch point for adventure and vacation. The Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Port Canaveral are just a few of things to see, and being centrally located between Orlando with the Disney theme parks and Daytona and Cocoa showcasing their boardwalk piers and pristine beaches makes it the ideal place to dock your boat.

  25. - Estimated Mileage: 60

    Fort Pierce City Marina

    Fort Pierce, FL

    772-464-1245

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Fort Pierce is one of the most promising cities on Florida's Treasure Coast with a newly re-built 1st Class Municipal Marina. Fort Pierce Inlet is one of the best marked most predictable inlets on Florida's East Coast.

  26. - Estimated Mileage: 44

    Safe Harbor Old Port Cove

    North Palm Beach, FL

    561-626-1760

    HIGHLIGHTS

    From a well run marina, to access to all yacht services and great shopping and provisioning, Old Port Cove has everything the visiting cruiser could want. It's also close to Lake Worth Inlet, one of the best jumping off places to the Bahamas.

  27. Fort Lauderdale, FL

    954-627-6309

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Bahia Mar is the ultimate Marina destination in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The property features restaurants, shops, swimming pool, tennis and is directly across the street from a pristine sand beach along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. The marina offers 250 slips capable of handling vessels up to 300 feet along it’s 3,000 foot parallel dock and more than 5,000 feet of floating docks. This facility offers High Speed fueling, free WiFi, cable television, in-slip sanitary pump-out, a marine store and dive shop.

  28. - Estimated Mileage: 25

    Sunset Harbour Yacht Club

    Sunset Harbour Yacht Club - Miami Beach, Florida - Marinalife

    Miami Beach, FL

    305-398-6800

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Sunset Harbour Yacht Club and Marina accommodates vessels from 45 to 210 feet. Its prime location on Biscayne Bay is just 1 ½ miles from Government Cut, which leads to the Atlantic Ocean. The location on the quiet side of South Miami Beach ensures you are never too far away from the action. Sunset Harbour Yacht Club is constructed to the highest marine standards and each slip has electric service, fresh water, wireless high speed internet access, digital satellite tv, a personal secured dock box and head pump-out line.