06/02/2026
There was a discussion today in a local group about kayaks, boat traffic, and safety on the ICW around Swansboro, so I wanted to speak on it from our perspective. Not only from a shop that sells kayaks, rents them, and works a “fleet” of motor boats, but as someone who is an avid boater and has boated in Swansboro long before I owned Pogie’s.
Kayakers absolutely have a right to be on the water.
The waterways around Swansboro are public waters meant to be enjoyed by everyone, from large boats and fishing skiffs, to paddleboards and kayaks.
At the same time, safety matters for everyone involved.
The waterfront and ICW are getting busier every year. Between rentals and self-launches, we’re seeing more people on the water than ever before. Because of that, education, awareness, and mutual respect are becoming more important for both paddlers and boaters alike.
We actively instruct our guests to:
• Cross channels directly when needed
• Hug the shoreline whenever possible
• Stay out of marked navigation channels as much as they safely can
• Wear life jackets
• Remain aware of tides, wakes, currents, and boat traffic
We also-
Actively ride around in our boats to see if any of our kayakers need assistance
Will gladly bring them back to the shop if they are struggling and need help
We also encourage boaters to remember that kayaks are smaller, lower in the water, and more vulnerable to wakes and visibility issues.
Personally, I think long-term conversations about slowing traffic through some of the busiest waterfront stretches may be worth having, similar to other busy coastal waterfront areas. Not to stop or inconvenience boating, but to help everyone safely share the water. Flying bridge area, to right past Casper’s, plus the whole turning basin. As one large Morehead or Beaufort style no wake zone.
At the end of the day, from our perspective, this isn’t “boaters vs kayakers.” Swansboro’s waterways are one of the things that make this area so special, keeping tourist coming to fund the local economy. The goal should be ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyability for everyone.
