Port Norfolk Put-in

Port Norfolk Put-in, originally uploaded by jmharper.

Jerry and Jeff tried a new put in on August 11th. Located on Bayview Boulevard at the foot of Chautauqua and Mt. Vernon Avenues, this tiny stretch of beach allows access to the Western Branch of the Elizabeth River just west of the Portsmouth International Terminal. Wherever you go, you have to pass under the new Pinners Point Bridge, which keeps the parking area free of traffic.

Heading west, you can paddle towards Portsmouth City Park, and the Western Branch area of Chesapeake. Lots of great backyards, with a rest stop at City Park, and beverages available at the golf course pro shop.

Heading east, you paddle by the terminal, and the huge container ships loading and unloading there. Stay at least a hundred feet away from the ships, if not more, both because of security, and because of the strange waves that can reflect off the ship hulls.

The semi-open water of the Elizabeth is next. turning south, you can see downtown Norfolk, and a little closer, the Naval Hospital. Turn right just before the hospital, and the calmer waters of Scotts Creek allow a half hour of exploring.

It helps to feel secure in small waves and swells here, as the wind and wakes can combine for some interesting water!