Moriches Bay Inlet

About

Introduction:

Moriches Bay Inlet is one of the three last inlets you will encounter on Long Island’s south shore before you reach Point Montauk on its far eastern end. Although the inlet is considered dangerous by the U.S. Coast Guard, many fisherman and others with small power boats use the inlet frequently. Inside at Tuthill Cove and Senix Creek off Moriches bay are many marinas, most of which accept transient guests.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 12352.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, Moriches Inlet is unreliable and should not be attempted at any time by deeper-draft boats. Those boats with a shoal draft (three feet or less) can attempt the inlet form either direction, but should do so only with prior local knowledge form a reputable source. By no means should this inlet be attempted by any vessel in the event of a storm. Strong currents can mix with brisk winds to create a melee of waves, eddies and exposed shoals.

Red and white Morse (A) buoy “M” marks the approach to Moriches Inlet from the south via the Atlantic Ocean, and flashing green “1” at the north side of the inlet guides you farther in. The most dangerous part of the inlet is a quarter- to half-mile southeast of the opening. Although the chart shows six- to eight-foot depths, this area is where silt deposits from the inlet’s strong outflow. As such, the depths change constantly and there are no aids to navigation, save for some strategically placed milk jugs left by transiting fisherman who use the inlet every day.

Once inside, depths increase rapidly, and then shallow again as you head east. The easternmost passage into Moriches Bay is recommended, as the westerly split has very unreliable depths.

Local Notices to Mariners:

Local Notices to Mariners are available online from the U.S. Coast Guard.