Swan Creek Inlet

About

Introduction:

Swan Creek is the entrance to many of the marina and marine facilities in the town of Rock Hall. Located on the northern neck of the Rock Hall Peninsula, Swan Creek is easy to enter and navigate, but there are some abrupt two- and three-foot-deep spots around the creek (even within the channels) so keep a close watch on the depth sounder and follow the aids to navigation closely.

Navigating the Water:

Use NOAA Chart 12272.

If you are approaching Swan Creek from the Chesapeake Bay, keep in mind that you will have to go around the Swan Point Bar, which extends about three miles south from Tavern Creek at the mouth of Swan Creek. There are a couple of spots that those with drafts of less than five feet can get through, but only with advance local knowledge.

We recommend heading down to green can “3,” which marks the southern end of the Swan Point Bar, and then head for flashing red buoy “4.” From here, green can “6” leads you to flashing red “6” and in toward Swan Creek (keep an eye out for the lit breakwater around the Gratitude Marina). Red nuns “6A” and “6” keep you clear of the shoal extending from Gratitude at its northern end.

Once inside, follow the fixed aids and daybeacons, but keep in mind that green can “9A” has a shallow spot extending past its location; give it a wide berth. Upstream there are four major marinas, and two have repair service available.

Local Notices to Mariners:

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