We did the Dismal last year going up and then the fall did the "real" ditch" coming down to Beaufort. Had some damage in the S bound on the real ICW. Tied up to the seawall by the first lock S of Norfork and a Cruise ship came plowing through! He didn't care who was around. Almost put the boat on the hard up and over the seawall. Other powerboats were nicer but the cruise ship just was the worst. Elizabeth Town is a treat and you'll miss that taking the outside. IMHO 6 of 1 half a dozen of the other. If I had to go again I would choose the swamp. However we have a full keel boat and a few light bumps don't hurt us. That is; provided there is enough water.

Go Slow
Sail Far
Stay Long