“No Wake” zone a possibility for Southport in the future

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — The wakes from boats cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway in Southport are a major issue, many boaters say.

“People coming in here to fuel boats, they’re tying up, coming in to dock. You know, it’s dangerous in the fact that if you’re getting waked and you’re getting pushed towards the dock or other boats, it can create danger,” Master Powerboat Instructor, Captain Kevin Hennessey.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is gathering input about creating a “No Wake” zone in this area. Something Brunswick County commissioners and the sheriff’s office supports. Chief Deputy Charlie Miller said wakes not only damage docks and boats, but speeding boats are also dangerous.

“You have boats that don’t slow down for other boats. And you know with the amount of congestion that was going on there we just felt that it was a huge safety issue,” Miller said.

A small boat can cause a wake two feet high according to Hennessey. He said he’s experienced the dangers of wakes first hand when teaching a class.

“I went to reach up and stepped up on the edge of the boat to fend off the boat behind us and I slipped and fell into the water. So I mean, thankfully nothing happened to me but, you know, could’ve been serious,” Hennessey said.

Before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers make a decision, they want to hear from the public. They will take comments until February 28. Click here for more information.