The Intracoastal Waterway – Norfolk to Miami – A Cockpit Cruising Handbook

Publisher: International/McGraw-Hill, 5th ed, $US 19.95
Publication Date: 2004

Though published in 2004, this has only just come our way due to the generosity of John Chance, the HLR for this area of the USA. Though called the fifth edition, this appears to be the fifth published since the first in 1979. It is easy to see why it has become a staple support to those wandering through the ICW. It is not expensively produced on matt paper that is not likely to be robust enough to withstand a good dowsing, but is a convenient 9” x 6” format and, being ring-bound, lies flat and available for reference by the helm. There are a number of monochrome illustrations more than 50% of which seem to be included for general character rather than intrinsic to navigation. Being matt, these do not add a great deal to the book but are quite clear so those that photograph items of navigational marks, rising bridges and the like are helpful. A useful flap on the end paper helps to keep your place. After two chapters which set the tone of the guide: “What is the ICW really like?”, and “How to use this Handbook”, there follow nine chapters which simply split the length of the waterway into digestible chunks. Each of these chapters sets out the notable features, mostly navigational, after a short introduction to any idiosyncrasies of the section. There is a continuing note of mileage and numbered marks. More than 300 marinas are marked along with 115 anchorages, bridge schedules, heights, and the like along the approximately 1100 length of the waterway. Useful charts are listed and the Post Offices that accept “General Delivery” convenient to the water. A good companion to have at your side it seems - Michael Davey