As spring arrives and water temperatures rise, thousands of cruising boats make their annual migration northward along the East Coast Intracoastal Waterway. With increased traffic and tightly timed bridge openings, planning ahead can make the difference between a smooth run and frustrating delays. Here's a guide to help mariners plan their passage through these bridges, which all monitor VHF Channel 09. It's crucial to note that bridge heights and clearances can vary due to water depth, signage placement, and other variables, so always proceed with caution.

Bridge Operations & Clearances

Georgia Bridges (Monitor VHF Channel 09)

• Jekyll Island (SR 520) Bridge (MM 684.4) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• F.J. Torras Causeway Bridge (MM 674.5) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Diamond Causeway (Skidaway) Bridge (MM 592.9) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• State of Georgia Memorial (US 80) / Thunderbolt Bridge (MM 582.8) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Islands Expressway Bridge (MM 579.8) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.

South Carolina Bridges (Monitor VHF Channel 09)

Continuing north toward North Carolina

• J. Wilton Graves (US 278) Bridge (MM 557.5) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• McTeer Memorial Twin Bridges (MM 539.7) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Lady's Island (Woods Memorial) Bridge (MM 536.0) - Opens on signal with restrictions; Height: 30 feet.
• McKinley Washington Jr. (SR 174) Bridge (MM 501.3) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• John F. Limehouse Bridge (MM 479.3) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Wappoo Creek (SC 171) Bridge (MM 470.8) - Opens on signal with restrictions; Height: 33 feet.
• James Island Expressway Bridge (MM 469.9) - Fixed; Height: 67 feet.
• Ben Sawyer Memorial (SC 703) Bridge (MM 462.2) - Opens on signal with restrictions; Height: 31 feet.
• Isle of Palms Connector Bridge (MM 458.9) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Estherville-Minim Canal Bridge (MM 411.5) - Usually open (swing bridge); Height: 0 feet closed.
• Ocean Highway (US 17) Bridge (MM 402.1) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Carolina Bays Parkway (SC 31) Bridge (MM 372.3) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Benjamin E. Thrailkill Jr. (SC 544) / Socastee Highway Bridge (MM 371.3) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Socastee Swing Bridge (MM 371.0) - Opens on signal; Height: 11 feet.
• Fantasy Harbor Bridge (MM 366.4) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• US 501 Bridge (MM 365.4) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• SCL Railroad Bridge (MM 365.4) - Opens on signal; Height: 16 feet.
• Grissom Parkway Bridge (MM 360.5) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Grande Dunes Bridge (MM 357.5) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Conway Bypass (SC 22) Twin Bridges (MM 355.5) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Barefoot Landing Swing Bridge (MM 353.3) - Opens on signal; Height: 31 feet.
• Robert Edge Parkway / North Myrtle Beach Connector Bridge (MM 349.1) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.
• Captain Archie Neil "Poo" McLauchlin (Little River) Swing Bridge (MM 347.3) - Opens on signal; Height: 7 feet.
• Nixon Crossroads Bridge (MM 347.2) - Fixed; Height: 65 feet.

For those planning to travel through South Carolina and Georgia, it's advisable to check the latest navigational alerts and updates for any changes in bridge operations. Most bridges operate on a schedule or open on signal, but exceptions may apply, especially during peak or quiet hours. Stay informed by checking local marine navigation updates or by visiting the official Waterway Guide website for the most current information.