Day 221: Alligator River Marina (Columbia, NC) to Coinjock Marina (Coinjock, NC) 6/8/22

Traveling to Coinjock was an easy trip. Crossing the Albemarle Sound was relatively flat and we had little wind. It is known for being a bit choppy and challenging. We were able to choose a good day and did not have any problems.  After the Albemarle Sound, we traveled through the North River to Coinjock. It was calm and quiet. The trees, plant life and few houses made it a relaxing trip.  

Some looper will elect to take the Dismal Swamp Canal because it is said to be one of the most beautiful journeys along the loop. It is a very narrow and shallow canal. The trees draping over the canal protect it from wind which creates a mirror reflection in the water. The beauty of the canal comes with risks. Many boats have kicked up logs in the shallow waters and caused damage to their boat. While we would have loved to see it, we decided our 4.5 foot draft boat was too much of a risk.

Arriving at Coinjock Marina was easy. It is a long strip along the river to tie up too.  We were one of the first boats to arrive. It was like parallel parking on a street with few cars around! By sunset, the marina was full with very large boats that stayed for the night.  

Shortly after we arrived, a sailboat that we passed along the way arrived. They are a nice family from Switzerland. They bought the boat in Canada and were exploring America. It was fun to hear about their travels. Their two young daughters enjoyed helping Kelly walk the dogs. Kelly walked Harley while the girls walked Bonnie and Teddy. Bonnie figured out quickly that she could do the leading and go wherever she wanted. The girls really enjoyed it.

Coinjock Marina is nice. It is definitely a cash cow for the owner. Huge boats use it as a stopping point and pay the higher daily rate of $2 foot for their 50-100 foot yacht and enjoy the restaurants 36 ounce prime rib dinner. We have reservation for tomorrow. They are very professional and we really enjoyed watching the boat traffic.

Tacos for dinner.

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