On the south end of Skidaway Island, within the gates of The Landings community, is Delegal Creek Marina. The Landings is home to two marinas, on the opposite end is Landings Harbor Marina. I have operated boats at both marinas and have found one to be more challenging compared to the other. As a former captain who is highly experienced in boat handling. I have found that managing the tides can be challenging. Here is what you need to know about Delegal Creek marina boat handling as a result of the impacts of tides. 

What Type Of Marina Is Delegal Creek

Boaters who occupy space at Delegal Creek are those who keep boats in the water year-round. Unlike the Landings Harbor Marina, Delegal Creek does not offer dry rack storage. 

With that said, the marina is constructed to accommodate 57 boats in the water. In addition to the slips, boaters can take advantage of fueling services, a marina store, bathrooms, and showers. 

Unfortunately, transient dockage is no longer allowed at the marina. That being said, you are required to be a resident in order to secure dock space. 

Tidal Flow At Delegal Creek Marina

Without question, the marina is subject to large tidal swings on a daily basis. For this reason, as a boater, you need to be prepared when departing or returning to the dock. 

On average, you can expect a difference of 6 to 8 feet between low to-high or high to low tide. The water will move at a rapid rate through the marina. It is easily apparent when looking at the flow past dock pilings. 

Considerations When Docking At Delegal Creek Marina

When docking at the marina, it is important to factor in a multitude of challenges and be prepared ahead of time. Here are the top considerations when docking at Delegal Creek. 

Pay Close Attention To The Direction Of The Tide

One of the most critical factors when leaving or returning to the dock is knowing the direction of the flow. 

I have watched unprepared boaters attempt to dock up and approach from the wrong direction based on the tide. With that said, you always want to go bow first into the tide when approaching a face dock. Going bow into the current will help you better maintain control.

Understandably, this is not always possible when steering head-first into a slip or reversing into a slip. You’ll need to pay close attention when moving in the same direction as the tide while docking. 

Have Dock Lines Prepared

One of the best ways to be prepared to approach a dock in any situation is to have the dock lines on the proper side of the boat and ready to go. 

All too often, boaters fail to prepare the dock lines and are unable to hold position once the boat is alongside. Having lines ready is particularly important at Delegal because of the flow of the tide. 

Understand That You Will Be Set Down Quickly

As a boater who utilizes Delegal on a consistent basis, I have been surprised at how quickly I have been set down. 

For the most part, I have been set down while departing slips. The space amount of water between one finger dock to the next is wider than most, but you’d be surprised at how quickly you’re pushed through the water. 

With that said, don’t be afraid to power up when needed to steer the boat out of the slip and into the open water away from the marina. 

Marina Staff Is Not Available 24/7

Never assume that someone will be standing dockside ready to lend a helping hand when departing or returning to the dock. 

It should be noted that marina staff is on the premises from 8 in the morning until 5 in the evening. So, if you’re planning on fishing early or returning after 5, don’t plan on getting any help. 

However, during regular operating hours, I have witnessed the staff go above and beyond to help boaters in a multitude of ways. 

Manage The Tides At Delegal Creek Marina

Importantly, if you’re leaving or returning to the dock, pay close attention to the tide. Once you determine the direction of flow, it is much easier to determine how to navigate to counteract the tide. Importantly, avoid becoming fixated on the wild boar that roam Green Island across from the marina. Remember to stay focused on the maneuvers you’re making to avoid trouble while docking at the marina.