Hi Jon,

The Chesapeake entrance is about 37N 75 45'W while Beaufort is about 34 30'N 76 40'W. Beaufort is both South and West. That makes Marsh Harbour 600 nm from the Chesapeake and 500 nm from Beaufort. I've only launched from Beaufort for the Bahamas a couple of times so I don't have the experience I have heading out of the Bay, although like you I've been out of Beaufort on coastal transits any number of times. It seems to be only about a half day shorter from Beaufort even though it's a hundred miles different. That doesn't seem like a good trade for the time and fuel down the ICW.

That means four or five days in most boats. The difference in time from Chesapeake or Beaufort is often overwhelmed by time standing off waiting for light or a rage to flatten.

You're right about anchoring in Little Creek. Other than the small spot between the LCAC ramp and the bridge (completely exposed to the N) you end up anchoring over in Hampton, Hospital Point, or one of the Cape Charles anchorages. Hampton and Norfolk of course only add to the distance.

The folks at Vinings Landing Marina in Little Creek have let me grab a nap behind the fuel dock a few times before heading offshore. I'm a regular customer there however so that may be a factor in their hospitality.

sail fast and eat well, dave