Come Sail Away
Got a few days to get out on the water? Try one of these semi-secret sailing spots right here along Savannah’s coast. I never tire of the words cut the engine. I spoke those words over two years ago as I raised two white sails in the air, as a friend and I faked our way down the Wilmington River. It was a glorious moment — the dull constant putter of the motor stopped suddenly as I uttered the magic phrase, and the boat began to glide silently in a steady spring breeze. The transition from motor to wind never gets old.Here on the coast nothing beats anchoring to enjoy a midday grill with friends or falling asleep to a good book, surrounded by nature. While sailing certainly has its challenges and frustrations, the awesome power and beauty of our Lowcountry waterways present opportunities hard to beat. And spring is the ideal time to get started. With clean breezes, moderate temperatures and a noticeable lack of gnats, it’s a good time for you to spend a night or two out “on the hook.” Here’re a few local spots I like to relax in. Herb River (Lat: 32.015 N, Long: 81.039 W) While not the most protected anchorage on this list, the Herb River is a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of the Intracoastal Waterway, and not too far from decent sailing in Wassaw Sound. You will often come across interesting sailors anchored here that are traveling up the Intracoastal after spending a winter in the Bahamas or Keys. Located south of Thunderbolt but north of the , the Herb River is an easily accessible anchorage. It’s a fun place to break out the grill and have lunch, or spend a night and take a small dinghy ashore to nearby Thunderbolt. You can also wash down your burgers by taking a right at the second fork and heading up Country Club Creek to grab a Dark ‘n’ Stormy (see sidebar) at Bonna Bella Yacht Club. Be sure to watch your depth and only go in boats where the power lines work in your favor.
Images by Eric Prine
