28 and 29 June - Carolina Beach and Oriental, NC

Finally back into NC! ICW much more friendly to express cruisers that like to run at 25 knots! Very few no wake zones and almost all boats are on lifts!

Frist stop was Carolina Beach where we met our friends the Pidgeons and enjoyed a private yacht club pool!

29 June - Carolina Beach to Oriental. Easy cruise back into NC. Arrived at a great marina with pool and nice rooms. Decided we like it so much we are here for 2 days! Very nice small NC town with friendly people and great prices and food!

Oriental, North Carolina, known as the "Sailing Capital of North Carolina," has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was later settled by European colonists. The town was officially incorporated in 1899 and quickly became a bustling port due to its strategic location along the Neuse River. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Oriental thrived as a fishing and shipbuilding community, with its economy heavily reliant on maritime activities. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further boosted the town's growth, facilitating trade and transportation. Today, Oriental is celebrated for its charming waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and strong sailing community, while still retaining elements of its historical roots.