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I I
l6(oll.
THE
i>\v% «o .u> . H*^^ '^^ ''^-
AMERICAN COAST PILOT :
CbNTAINING
DIRECTI1I.\S
FOR THE
PRINCIPAL HARBORS, CAPL , AXD HEADLANDS,
COASTIS OF I^ORTH A VD ^OIJTH AltlERIGAs
UESCniriXG THc.
SOUNDINGS, BEARINGS OF THE LUIUTHOliSES AND BEACONS PIlOM
THE ROCKS, SHOALS, I.HLXJES, &c.
\
WITH THE PREVAIHtO
WINDS, SETTING OF THE CURRENTS, &o.
AND THE '' f
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES %
OF THE
PRINCIPAL HARBORS AND
TbGETHBR WITH
A TIDE TABLSk
'iW;^-^^~
S»
■>
\
H\
BY EDMUND M. BLUNT-
THXRTEZiZTTH EDITZOlTy XXKPROITSP^
BY E. & G. \y. BLUNT.
ii
il
NEW YORKt
jt»UBLISHED BY EDMUND AND GEORGE W. BLt
154 WATER STREET, CORNER OF MAIDEN LANE.
JUNE, 1837. , ' . ' <
>- , * ■*,
DIRECTIONS TO THE BINDER.
blan of portland harbor to front.
; portsmouth harbor,
isle of shoals,
newburyport harbor
annis squam harbor
. cafe ann harbor,
boston harbor,....
^—^ — — Cape poge harbor
■ — ■ NEWPORT harbor
LQNG iSliAND SOUND
BAY AND RIVEJl DELAWARE, ...
CHART OF CHESAPEAKE. ENTRANCE,
^I»LAN OF CHARLESTON HARBOR
SAVANNAH RIVER
^ — .. JDOBOY SOUND
I ^ — PENSACOLA HARBOR,
'tf ..' .1, yiRGIN I^lAI^DS,
3!f"
-000-
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
PAGE
..152
..157
..158
..159
..1C2
..1G3
..171
..181
..l'J9
..2r.i
..220
..226
. .2.39
..242
..24;J
..271
..409
rer«M Rccerding to Act of Congress, in the year 18.'J7, by E. dt (!. W. Blunt, ill
liMrOork'S^'ffice oflthe District Court of the Southern District of New York.
TV*.
ing
-00-
NOTICE.
WW jk OENTLEMEN'iaaking Nautical Communications to the Subscriber, will please ad-
Ft^^«M them to the care of EDMUND &c GEORGE W. BLUNT, No. 154 Water
*«treet, (Borner of Maiden Lane, New York ; by whom, in future, all his works will be
flilllll^lildiecl. ST. & G;* W. BLUNT will, with pleasure, com.uuuiicate every informa-
tltnl in Nautical Improvements.
EDMUND M. BLUNT.
N.B. As sonae impfoveraents have been made since this work commenced, the reader
brtferred to the APPENDIX.
CHRONOMETERS rated, sold, and repaired by E. & G. W. BLUNT.— See their
bdrertiaement in this work.
Printed by J. M. Elliott, 6 Little Green street, N. Y.
PREFACE
TO THE TWELFTH EDITION
PAGE
..152
..157
..158
..159
..1G2
..163
..171
..184
..199
..213
. .220
..226
. .239
..242
..243
..271
..409
OF
reader
: their
#:
THE AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Nearli' /wr/y^mrs have elapsed since tlie subscriber commenced thisi
;fVork. To it he lias devoted the largest portion of his life, unwearied
labor, and great expense ; and the reception it has met with from that re*
spectable class of society by whom it is used, may he inferred from the
fact, that Ei,KVEN editions, comprising tkirty-sevsn thousand copies, have
been sold, previous to the publication of the present edition.
The difiicultics of procuring all the improvements incident to a work of
this charactcn-, not only intended to enable the mariner to recognize the
coast at a distance ; but to direct him into.a port when pilots cannot be
obtained, render it a work of great labor and responsibility. The life of* tbe
most experienced is more endangered when he approacbos the coast) than
when exposed to the teni|)csts which agitate the mid-o<iean. Pilot?, who
are not always to br 'bund in the discharge of their duty, are often prpvented
by storms and violent winds from offering their.s'ervices to vessels end^ft-
loring to make a harbor. In such cases; unless the.mast^rs ar^pilailtl^nted
with the port, the safety of the vessel deperfds iipon the^ecuracVdiPilii Sail-
ing Directions, (/harts sire intended rather to give a/gej^e)^T'id^||i^ thief
coast, than minute and accurate descriptions of partitSuIar.^i&rbdlB.^Jt ii^'
therefore, to their jjrinted directions that they must flesigpt, tO procuif^'li^irt-
mation which at such moments is vitally important.: Their instrU,i|i^JU
and charts, by which they have been enabled to shape thefr coursQ iHip^U
a trackless ocean, are rendered useless from their ignora^^ei^of tbec|b^illlae|
by which they are to enter the harbor; and maririei*S, who have escaped^ at
former dangers of the voyage, are often shipwrecked uppn some sunken rb(^'
or shoal, at the entrance of their destined port. Theiinowledge cjf suclv
dangers, important as it it to seamen generally, is particularly 8o to tlii^
of the United States. Navigating waters filled with shifting sand baiiks flOpd
bars, which are formed by the Gulf Stream, and by the mighty river9'p|i^li
discharge themselves from the coast of the North American continent, i^idy.
require no ordinary skill and knowledge to avoid those extensive and intri-
cate shoals that line our shores. This coast is rendered still more danger-
ous by rapid tides and eddies peculiar to the American seas, add by a strong.,
current running counter to the Gulf Stream, from the Banks of NewfonaiElf
land to Cape Florida. The boisterous and variable weatlier. so ^oAimqn
in this climate, also tends to increase the difficulties and dangers 6f bur
coasting trade.
The Charts of the American Coast of foreign publication, were drawn
from information obtained previous to the revolution, from the imperfect
sketches of such ports as the policy of the British government caused to be
surveyed at the time it held us as colonies. These were few in number^
and, since the publication of American charts, the English charts have&Uen
entirely into disuse. In general the mariners were left to acquire their
knowledge from the shipwrecks of others. Those we now publish, are from
PREFACE.
authentic sources ; and from tlie survoys of our own government, the ob*
servution of shiiMnasters, and our own exertions, ue (hirive thut infornuition
which is here published concerning the roast of tiie Tnited States.
Irt preparing the American Cons/ J'ilol for press, recourse lias been had
to every Nautical work of merit ; and with the assurance that neither |)aing
nor expense have been spared, it is presented to the worhl as perfect as the
nature of the work will admit. Every source of marine intelliii-ence which
our coinitry affords has bcicn successively resorted to. L(!tters have been ad-
dressed to the Collectors and Pilots in the several jjorts of the United States,
requesting nautical information, which they have given with conunendable
promptitude.
Surveys, in pursuance of various acts of Congress, imve been made of
Savannah River, Capes Fear, Ifatteras, and Look-out, of the entrance of
the Chesapeake, the river Darien, Jsles of Shoals, Portsmoutl*, IJoston, and
Newport Harbors ; copies of which the author has been permitted to take,
and which are inserted in this edition of the Pilot. These, however, are
but part of the improvements. The Bahana Bank, and the adjacent keys,
which lie directly in the course of all vessels bound to New Orleans and lla-
|>^ yana, attd. vriiiifth haye long been the dread of our West India marinersj
..were SttrveyQoln 1,S|20, at the expense of the &iubscriber. The next year,
Ibe jBloop il9r^iOt,''a mjrveying vessel in his employ, was sent to examine the
l^outli Sh'<»td> jtif Nttntnck(|Sst, the extent and situation of which he had long
fjuaj^iected to jbe'ii!j.correcfly desci^^^ It was then appertained that this
. |ih<l^{,%hiPi hil^ be^tjsfetyirflown in all the English charts, as extending to
.*he i||»«th as far ti» la|^^4^' ^- i" ^^^^ terminated in lat. 41° 4' N. The
'JlmflNO^ance of this dia^|ren^ to the navigation of the United States, may be
lonceived. 'Heretofore, mariners bound from Europe, or from the
^^^_ ports to New Yorjc, Philadelphia, or any of the southern j)orts, in
jiB^sire to a vqia this dangerous shoal, kept so far to the south-east as
feA|to run into the Gdlf Stream, and were thereby retarded from CO to
70 nii|e|» jjei* day. Jfy this survey, a clear nnd perfectly safe channel, twentyr
jCvfOffniteS wide, is anded to th^ space, supposed to be between the stream
llpd the shoal, whicb will enable them to keep more to the north-west, and
Si^ltaie advantage of the south-west current on the inner edge of the (rulf.
^#;^i!taTferagiB gain of twenty-four hours may be thus made in the home pasr
"-^a^.e of most European traders.
The accuracy of this survey, which was at first disputed, has been fuUy
pKOV^t by two diffei^nt expeditions subsequently sent from Nantucket to
jaacertdiin the extent of the shoal.
Tbe surveying sloop Orbii. also accompanied a vessel sent by Capt. Isaac
HuU, at the request of the subscriber, to examine St. Ceorge's Bank, and
Ihe result is published in this edition of the American Coast Pilot.
Since the publication of the eleventh edition, Messrs E. ^ G. W. Blunt
fiave made a minute survey of Long Island Sound, and also completed
itheir survey of New York Harbor. Great improvements have been made
ia the directions for the coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, for which
Jthe author is indebted to the surveys of Messrs. Bullock, Lane, 6> Lockiroody
Under the direction of the British Admiralty. He has also availed himself
jof the labors of Baron Uoussin, who since the publication of the last edition
jof the Pilot, surveyed the coast of Brazil from St. Catharine to M' "anham,
by order of the French Government, and of the continuation of that survey
from St. Catharine's to the River L* Plata, by Lt. Barrel, To tb§ care
: r-
J!*
PREFACE.
'g
and ability of Capt. ICing of the Uiitish navy, who has oompletod tlic survey
of iho Straits of Maj^ellun, lie is imlcbtt'd for the dircciions for those straits
in tlio followiniif 'vork.
To Capt. Heauj' rf, hydroi?rapl)rr to the British Admiralty, Capt. R.
Oinii of the IJr'tish iiuvy, JJou Mdrfin i\ dc Navantfc, i:ydrggrai)lier to
the Spatiisii ^iovcrnmcnt, Lt. Col. yiheN of the U. S. topographical en <,Mneers,
and to the ollirors in tluj JJritisli, French,. Danish, and Dutch service, his
thaidvs are piirticiiliiriy due iur the nmv and vali'a!)lc information which
tl ;<!y have voiiinturiiy iMrnisIicd of tiie roasts th*;t have fallen under their
observation, and in a manner \vliicli indicates, that in their opinion the ad"
vancement of the .science of hydrography la the common interest of all
nations.
3Iany improvements are made in tiiis, which have increased its contents
one-third over the last edition, by sailin<^ directions for every harbor in the
West Indies, Spanish 3Inin, Sic. ttc. with a full description of the many
Beacons, IJuoys, and the new Jiii^iitlioiiscs, which have been erected on the
coast of the U. S.: tog(!th(!r with the alterations thaj have been made in
some of th<! Liifhthouses, and a complete revision cf^lho "Latitudes and
Louii^itudcs, adapted lO rec(Mit observations. ^ *****''.♦*.
These are |)i)rt of tiic impro\cm(M\ts of the present cd|tidnf though some
material correctiotis have been mnde,. whenfiv^ the author- wais satisfied,
by the testimony of mariners, or by sarveys> thffil^is formef directioHs'were
inaccurate. Alterations li ive not, liowever, beejft<^(nade, unless upon stronger
evidence than what pvoiupted him to insert t||i'originai directions; ^ ,
In presentiui; the TliELFTH EDITIO^mt^ A mwican Coa|rt ^ilot
to the public, the author does not ilatter himi^p^that it< will prove entirely*
free from errors. The shiftini^ natare of ceftain parts of ihe ccmSf***"*''^
occasionally present deviations from the present directipns. Impen
too is the lot of map, and in attempting to give directions- for the navi^al
of a coast COOO miles in Icngtli, and which was discovered lijrig afti^'tl^j^N,
European coast had been fully explored, he is sensible that he baa;^ijii^Bii^
taken a duty, the performance of which belonged RATufeR TO THE^VllR^
MENT THAN TO AN INDIVIDUAL. Of such a momentous task, it is matted
of astonishment that so much has been done ; and not tlint so mucJ
mains to be performed. During the many years devoted to its e?tec«tiiO>i,
his zeal has not been excited, nor his industry quickened by the conscionSr
ness that he was engaged in a brilliant undertaking, which would- attract
the attention of mankind ; neither was there opportunity or place in a worfc
addressed to a class using a peculiar dialect, and who required only per-
spicuity and accuracy, for the beauties of style and language His pecu-
niary reward has hitherto been nothing, the profits of the work having
been wholly absorbed in the expense of improvements.
It is, however, no small satisfaction to reflect, that the average rate of
insurance, since the first publication of the Pilot, has been diminished more
than one half upon coa* ting vessels, and four-fifths upon vessels bound to
New Orleans, and that, among other causes, the improvements in hydrdf
graphy mast have contributed to effect this great reduction. Still more
Sfitisfactory is liie consciousness derived from many ])ublic and private acr
knowledgments, that, in no small number of instances, by following hii?
directions, both vessels and crews have been saved from the rage of a mevcir
Jess elemetitj when the pilots were unable Jto come to their assistance.
^'^'.
; •
vl
PREFACE.
This conviction of iho utility oHm labors hns cnroiirnffod liini to conti-
nue f hetn ovtn when the embnrrnsstiients of our coniinnTo luid extimriiislu'd
^11 cApectiUion of any ndcquato recompense. For the <rrcater part of his life
he has devoted himself to tjje imp'o\eiiietit of American hvdro::rapliy ; and
with a (;onstitiition broken by <'\posuie and fatii-ia;, un<l a fortune bteraliy
'feast upon the waters," he now retires from the superintendancc of a work
whicli his increasitig infn-mities will not permit him any lnMi;er to contiime,
with an e.vju-ession of gratitiule to that class of our citizens"^
" Wliiise march ia un ilic moiintuin wave,"
for the enconragcnKMit <:,^iven him in ihcir imiform preference of his pid)lica-
tions, and parts from them with a wisli, thai I lie Amciiani I'odst Pi/of may
long prove a safe and unerring guide in their journcvs tliron^^Mi the track-
less ocean.
July, 1833. I^DMIND M. BLUNT.
■9'
P R E F A € JG
/,.
TO THE
fJilJiTEENTH EDITION.
>S
on for the press, every care has been taken,
made, and tuch errors as existed in the twelft^i
ipn^nd haVe'bccll'jdiscovered, have been corrected.
le Editors^ feel indebted for many cominiini(;ations to this work :
especialij tx) Gapt. JJeaukoiit, hydro^rapher to the Admiralty, for
lie continuation of his vakiable favors; to Lieut. ]}ki:ciiy, 1{. I\., and
Kthe ihvakiable wprk, jthe English Nautical Magazine, hv edits ; to Cajjl.
P#1N, R. N.-'fpT bis surveys of the Mosfpiito Siiore and IJahama Bank ;
|v^/|)^ LiieHt. <JiieeNv>S^O)£:n, of the U. S. Revenue Service, tor his descrip-
vj;ian of part of tire Coast and Harbors of the State of Maine. William
^pX feEDFlELD, Esq. of this city, has contributed the articles on Storms
'Stpd Currents.,
pjj J^chvyet remains to be done, to make this work as perfect as the edi-
JirS desirQ./" This only is to be attained by continued industry, by col-
||**;;|0l(5tin^ lind (JaTefiflly collating the various descri|)tions of j)laces, sailing
(li^^ctiotis, SLurveys of harbors, coasts, <fcc. The important survey of the
|d^E^s Off t\i6 United States, now in progress, under charge of Professor
HASSLBfi, aided by a corps of scientific assistants, will at a future day af-
ford materials for farther corrections and improvements. To this survey
of the American coast, and to the surveys of the English and French by
j^rographers, of the coasts, harbors, &,c. embraced in this work, to com-
inunications and sailing directions from intelligent ship masters, and to an
extensive correspondence, the attention of the editors is constantly directed.
Large appropriations were made, at the last session of Congress, for
* hew Lighthouses, Buoys, Beacons, &c. Notice of these appropriations will
be found in the Appendix. On the completion of any of these works due
police will be given.
June 1, 1837. E. & G. W. BLUNT.
Aliiicou L'ui
AI)i(»l!iaH Is
Ahsfcuin,
Aciil, Hay o
A(liiiinilt)'
Ailiuirar.s (
AfjUiiila, tou
AtiuadillaH;
A,ii,Mijas J'o
Aii^iu'.s Moil
Alcciiitia, to
Al(taiitra/,rs
A'';i(li's IviK
Aldt'itoii Pu
Alsarnilia I*
Alii ran Slio
All Saints 1
Allavfla Isi.i
Alvaradu, (ii
Amazon l\i\'
Ainoiia Islaii
Anegada Isl;
An^crstieu's
Angostura, C
Angiula, We
Anguilla, W
Annapolis, II
Annapolis, M
Ann Uapo, T
Annis Sijuau
Annotta Bay
Anse a Chou
Anses a Pitn
Anticosti Islii
Antigonish I
Antigua, W.
Antonio Cap
Antonio Porl
Anton Lisad
Anls, Jamaii
Apalachicola
Apple Island
Apronac lliv
Aqua Fort t
Aquin Bay, f
Aracati, towi
Arachat liar
Aranza Inlet
Araya Point
Arbiichee, ^
Arc6 Bay, I
Arenas Islam
Arenas Poini
I]\DEX.
Pafre
Abaoo, IV.jliamas 047, 24!), •^'iO
Ahacou I'oiiit, .St. Duiiiiiig ,'M'>7
Wno\\\oH l«4l;iriil.s, Iha/il 5.5'^
Aliseciim, N. .M'lsey -Jlrt
Acul, Hay of, St. Doiniimo .'$74
.'Vdiniralfy .Siimiil, l',ita,'iinia (lO-J
Adiiiiral's Cove, Nc\vl'<tiiii(llaii(l ll>
Afjiiada, tdwii, l'f)ii() Jvico U) J
Auuadilla Bay, I'orlo Rico 104
A,!;MJas Point, S'. Doiiiiimo 574
Ai,!,'ii(s iMoiit llail)()r, CIrciiada l.'J'J
Ali;aiitia, town, i!ia/.U .')4()
Ali:anti"i/,t'.s Islands, J>ia/.il .'j')'J
A''idi's Ivock, .St. Lawiiinco 70
Aldtnton Point, Massaclinsetls 17'J
Al^arrob.i I'oint, Si. Doininj^o I]7<)
Alii.'ian .Slnial, (inif of Mexico •.'86
All Saints J5ay, JJra/il 47
Altavela [sland, West Indies 364
Alvarado, (JnlC oC jMexico.... '.>6'J
Ania/.iin Uivor, Soutli Anieiica. . ,51'), 5-25
Aniclia Island, (J('orj;ia 'J44
Anegada Islaml, West Indies 40!)
AnsiPfstipn's Rocks, Bra/.ii 5.']7
Angostura. Ciiyana, 5"i4
Aiigiiila, West Indies 257
Aiignilla, West Indies 414,415
Annapolis, Hay of Kundy 127
Annapolis, Maryland 228
Ann ('ape, INIassaeliusetts 16,'J, 174
Annis .S(|uani, Massachusetts 1G2
Ainiotta Bay, .Taniaica ;3'J7
Ause a Chouchou, St. Domingo .375
Anses a Pitres, .St. Domingo , . ..364
Anticosti Island, Gulf of St. Lawrence, 63
Autigonish Harbor, Nova Scotia f)3
Antigua, W. Indies 420
Antonio Cape, Cuba 351, 354
Antonio Port, .famaica 308
Anton Lisado, Gulf of Mexico 2!J6
Anls, Jamaica 385
Apalachicola Bay, Florida 1269
Ap|)le Islands, .St. Lawrence 71
Apronac River, South America 526
Acjua Fort Harbor, Newfoundland, ... 13
Aquin Bay, St. Domingo 367
Aracati, town, Brazil 535
Arachat Harbor, Breton Island. . . .ys, 101
Aranza Inlet, Gulf of Mexico 281
Araya Point, Colombia...,, 461
Arbiichee, Nova Scotia. .,., 94
Area Bay, Patagonia 602
Arenjis Island, Gulf of Mexico 288'
Arenas Point, Colombia. , , . , 4S8
Pagi
Ariel Rocks, Sotith America ..583
Arignole ( 'a|)e, .St, Lawrenf.o 70
Arrecibo Harbor, Porto Rico 401
Ascencao island, South Atlantic 549
Atwood's Key, West Indies 313
Al\vood's Key Passage, West Indies.. 319
Au Choix Port, Newfoundland 61
Audierne Island, Newfoundland 43
Au Fer I'oint, Louisiana 279
Aux Basques Port, Newfoundland ... 56
Aux Cayes, St. Domingo 366 «,
Aux (Jaul C:ipe, Newfoundland 45
Aves island, We^t Indies 424
Aves Island, Co^gRbia 472
Avignon Roclt;||ti^L«WTenco 74
BacalieU IslagJrai, Lajkrtenco. ; 18 >>.
Back J^'^f'i'^lHfHH'lM • • • ■ • ''^^'^
Bahama Batfi^H|*,iV » 1 ».. .267
Bahama Isluiflpf. . . . .■, . . .' .847, 24^
Bahia, Brazil: .'.,..> i;^. .'. , . . .547-
Bahia Honda Hwrbbr, Golombia.-. . . . .476
Bahia Honda Harbor,. Cuba'. 32^-
Bajo Navidad Shoal, ■$»• Domiugo. . . .36d
Baker's Island, Massachusetts '.^164 .
Balize, Honduras . . ; 61#*<*\^
Bali/.e, Louisiana • .2^aPif^
Ballard Cane, Newfounijiand ........ "l^ ^"
Baltimore, Mafylfind. ...... ; 226,'229 -a
Bande de L'Arrier Bay, Newfoundland, 4^
Bane Harbor, Newfoundland. ........ 4a ' ,j^.s
JJane's Harbor, Cuba 335^/^*1
Banistre Road, St. Domingo , .36i^ '
>Baracoa Httrbor, Cuba .... i. ..,..,. ^ . 3;31
Baradalres Bay, St, Domingo. .. ,.^i, 38^. "
Barataria Bay, Louisiana..^; t . . .276
Barawally Bay, St, Vmcent'a.,,,. .;.43§. -a
Barbadoes, West Indies. . . .^',, . , , .%.441
Barbuda Island, West Itidies.'. .-, .... ;'4i9
Barcelona, city, Colombia ..... . ...» .465
Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey. . . . . .214, 219
Barnstable Bay, Massachusetts ,179
Barranca Point, Patagortia. ........ * .5&7
Barrington Bay, Nova Scotia........ ,120
Barret's Ledge, St. Lawrence 71
Barrowsway ' iiay,. Newfoujidlaud , . . . , 49
Bartiqucri Harbor, Cuba. . .-. . . ,. . , , ,341
Bartlett's Reef, Long Islantl Spuiid, . ,210 .
Bashi of Mines, Bay of Fundy 127
Basque Island, St, Lawrence. . . ; 71
Bass Harbor, Maine. , ^. I47
Basseterre, to^Vn, St. Kitts 418
Bastimentos Harbor, Darien. .,»,» .v.* .494
Batavano Harbor, Cuba,,,,,,,»,,.,,?^
Vlli
INDEX.
^ 1
Paf:r.
Battle FmIiukIs, f^ahrjidor 1
Bayuhii Harbor, St. Domingo .'57J
llayuu Sr. .Iniii, liouisiann 'i'W
Bay (i( BulU, .NrwrinintllatKl II, IM
Bay of l''airaii(l Fal.sP, Newloumlland, -^U
Bay of I.slaiids, NijwIoutidlaiKl fi'J
Bay of Ishinds, i\o»a Scotia Kio
Bay (ill iMcsjc, St. Domingo ;(()((
Bay Holicrt's, Ncwrouiidiaiid !(>
Beacons 71!)
Beata l8land. West liidio.s lid.)
Beaufort, Nortii t^andina ',>;{l
Beaver Harbor, Nova S(;otia 10;')
Beaver Harbor, Bay of i'nndy i:
Bedeqiiu Bay, (Juifid" St. liawreiice. , ')7
Bedford Bay, Gulf of St. Lawrence .. ')7
Bedford Bay, Patagonia ()().j
Beleiu City, Bra/.il 543
Belfast Bay, Maine < 14.3
Belize, Honduras < <..««. .515
Belle Harbor, Newfoundland., «,,<... 48
Bello Isle, Nowfoundiand It)
Belinonte, city, Bra/.il .55:{
BeniiDi Isles, Bahamas. Uof)
Bequin Island, West ludie^ ' 4.')')
BerbicQ River, Guayna 6i»-i, 6'JH
, Berkeley Sound, Falkland Island ». . . ..587
Biprmija Islands, Gulf of Mexico. . . .2H8
Bermadits Islands ...... 308
*Berry Islands, Bahamas 248, 262
Beverly Harbor, Massachusetts *. 4. <. 165)
Bk'inland, St. Lawrence...., .,<,.. 70, 78
Rirton Harbor, NovaScotia<4 4« .«.104
Head Harbor, Maine 138
[slands, St, Lawrence 88
Bi|;d's Islandsr West Indies 424
Bwhop's Reef, West Indies 318
Black Bay, St. Lawrence 7
Slack Head Bay, Newfoundland 22
Black River, Jamaica 3'J3
Black River, Guatemala 509, 512
Black Rock Harbor, L. I. Sound, 204,
206, 213
Blanca Island, Colombia < .466
Blanco Cape,^ Patagonia, .694
Bbck Island, Connecticut 187, 206
Block Island Channel 187, 194
Blowmedown Cape, Bay df Fundy . . .127
Bluefield's Bay, .Tainaica 394
Bluefield's Lagoon,,Guatefnala 504
Blue Hill Bay, Maine 141
Blue Pinion Harbor, Newfoundland . . 48
Bluff Cape Harbor, Labrador 4
Boat Harbor, Newfoundland 42, 62
Bocas, Gulf of Paria 451, 454
Boca Grande Bank, Colombia 482
Bombay Hook, Delaware Bay 221
Bonacca Island, (iuatemaia 510
Bonavista Bay, Newfoundland 22
Bonaventure Town, Nova Scotia 90
Bonne Bay, Newfoundland 50, 59
Bonnetta Cove, Nova Scotia 120
Boon Island, Maino 154
Borracha Island, Colondjia 472
Boston Harbor, JMassachusetts. . .171, 174
Pdpr.
Bouchasie Bay, I'ufa({onia dOH
Bou;;ainvill(« l!;iy, I'atayonia Mih
Bou^u^• 1 III. ■!, .North Caroliiia 2;..')
M«iwlic;ir lliiilior, Mainr VM
Boxy Harlior, Xrwroimillaiid H
Brailor llarhor, St. Lawrtiicc 7
Brandy I'ots, St. liawrrnets 7>)
Braiidywini' Slioal, Delaware Bay . . . .221
Brazil, coiistH of 5;i;)
|{ra/.il lt«i(l». N(.va Scotia 121
Bra/.o dr Santiago -jh'T
Bra/.os Kivcr, (i. of Mexico 2Hl
i»rid^c|iort, ( (iiiin'cticut 213
Bridgetown, BiubadocH 441
Briers Islimd, liiiy of I'lindy I26
Bri!;us Bay, Ni'wV.iuiidland 14, I6
l)rion Isliind, St. Liiwrcncr HH
Bristol llarluir, Rhode Island 201
Briton HarlH)r, Newfoundland 49
Broad Sound, Maine 150
Brooke's Harbor, Patagonia ti(l2
Brown's Bay, Patagonia 605i
Broyle C.ipe, Newfoundland 14
Brnnct Island, Newfoundland 46
Brunswick, North Carolina 2.37
Bnciios Ayrrs, I'.ra/.il .'",70, 6H3
Biiffft Ilatbov, Newlbuiidland 41
ISiioys 719
liurgco Islands, Newfoundland 53
lUiiin Bay, Newlbniidlaiid 44
Burnt Island, Maine 149
Buzzard's Bay. Massachusetts.. . I9I, 197
Bynoe Island, Patagonia 60&
' C
Cabanas Port, Cuba 358
Cabonico Port, Cuba 3;53f
Cabron ( 'ape, St. Domingo. 369
Cabroiige Point, St. Domingo 370
C'acana, St. Lawrence 71
Calcasii Rio, (J. of Mexico 280
Camden 1 iarbor, Maine 141
Camel's Island Harbor 31
Campeche, G. of Mexico 285, 29.'>
Canipo Bello, Passamaquoddy Bay...i;)5
Canada Bay, Newfoundland 32
Canada Head, Newfoundland 32
Cananova Port, Cuba 333
Candelaria, Bay of, Daricn 489
Canso Harbor, Nova Scotia 102
Cape Aim Harbor, Massachusetts , , . .163
Cape Bioyle Harbor, Newfoundland.. 14
Cape Charles Harbor, Labrador 1
Cape Cod Harbor, Massachusetts . . . .177
Cape Elizabeth Lights, Massachusetts 174
Cape Fear River, North Carolina . . . .236
Cape Ilaytien City, St. Domingo 374
Cape Porpoise Harbor, Maine 156
Cape Roger Harbor, Newfoundland . . 42
Ca|)e Rouge Harbor, Newfoundland.. 33
Cape Split Harbor, Maine 147
Capliii Bay, Labrador 6
Caplin Bay, Newfoundland 14
Carapano, town, Colombia .457
Carbbniere Islaad, St. Lavrcnce ..... Vf
II
Cardigan
Cariaciiii
Cariacou I
(Jaribana I
Caribbc 1>
Carlisle \\.
r;iulit Isj.i
Junboii 1
(.'ariboii P
Carriage i
Carthagen;
Cartwrighi
Carysfort'.-
Cascadc I
Cashes Lr
Castiiie, M
Castle Hai
Castle Isl;
Cusiim|)ic.
Catalina I
Cat Island,
Cat Island,
('atoche (ja
("alda I'ort,
Cavaillon B
Cavite Harl
Caxa de Mi
Cayaguanei
(y'aycos Pas
(Jaycos, W'l
(Jayenne, S(
Carymans, ]
Caballos Po
Chaleur J!a>
Chaleur Bat
(Jhaiice liar
Chandeleiir
('handler's 1
Change Islai
C'hapeau Ro
Charles Cap
Charles Islai
■ Cliagres, Da
(Miarles Islai
Charleston,
Charlotte H
Chat Cape, I
Chateaudin
Chateau Ba)
Chatham Hi
Chebucto H
Cliedabucto
(Chesapeake
Chichiriuich
Chjgnato Ba
Chincoteagu
Choiseul Ba
Chouchu Ba
Christianstat
Cinq Isles B
Cispater Hai
Clatise Harb
Clouds .. ..
Clode Sounc
Coach Islanc
INDEX.
IX
.. H
.. 7
. . 7')
. .',"21
. .I'ji
..•JH2
. .','Hl
. .'JKi
..441
..l'J(.
14, lf>
.. HH
..QOl
.. 4!)
..1.50
..r.o'i
..605
.. 14
,..46
...a.*}?
0, .5h;{
,.. 41
,..71<>
...53
...44
. ..14'>
^1, l')7
..60&
.358
..'5:53
.37a
. 71
.280
.141
. 31
29;>
,i;i5
, 32
. 32
.333
.489'
,10-^
.163
. 14
. 1
.177
Its 174
. .236
..374
156
42
.. 33
..147
. 6
. 14
.457
. 17
Carili^an Hay, Ci. Sf. Lawrenco 'X>
(,'iiriuciiu (iuir, ('oloiiiliiii 462
(jiiriiiciiu Ishiiid, \Vt'j<t Indies 43'J
(.';iril>.Mia I'uint, (JoloiiiiH.i 4HH
(/'aribbf Islatirls, C'oloiiiljia 407 |
( 'ailislt! May, Jamaica 3');i I
Tiilit Islaiiil, W'citt Indies lOl j
.'ai'iljiiu llai'ltor, rSuvu ticotiu 93 |
( laril)Ou I'oirit, 8t. liawrenrc ()6
(Carriage Harbor, May of Fundy 130
(Jarlliu^iMia, < 'oloinhia ihl
(Jartwn^lit'.s Harbor, Labrador 6
Caryslort'.s KfcC, j'iorida 262
(Cascade Harl)or, I'al.iLjonia 609
< 'ashes (jimI^o, Matisucliusetts 164
('astinc, iNIaniu Ill, 143
Castle Harbor, iirrniudas 309
Oastlij Island, West Indies 313
Casuinpic! Hmbor, (J. St. Lawrence.. 97
Catalina Harbor, Nuwtouhdland 210
('at Ishtnd, Louisiana .273
Cat Island, West Indies 311
Catoelu! (."ape, (i. of Mexico 284
Calda I'ort, (.'iiba 346
(availlon Hay, St. I)ominj;o 3()6
Cavite Harbor, Haiien . , 490
Caxa de Muertos, West Indies 402
Cayamiane(|ue Harbor, Cuba 332
Caycos J'assai^e :i21, 322
CaycoH, West Indies 320, 323. 324
Cayenne, South America 519, 527
Carymaus, West Indies , . .399
Cai)ailos I'ort, Cuba 333
Ciialeur liay, NewlLunilland 51
Chaleur i5ay. Nova Scotia 89
(Jliance Harbor, New foundland 40
Chandelcur Islands, Louisiana 273
(.'handler's Reach, Newfoundland.... 24
Change Island Tickle, Newfoundland. 29
('hapeau Rouge, Newfoundland 55
(Jharles C'ape, Jjabrador 1
(Jharles Island, Labrador 1
• Chagres, Darien 496, 497
(Miarles Islands, Patagonia 6, 11
Charleston, South Carolina 239
(Charlotte Harbor, Labrador 1
Chat Cape, St. Lawrence 65, 6i^
Chateaudin Harbor, St. Domingo . . . .366
(Jhafeau Bay, Labrador 1
Chatham Harbor, Msssnchusetts. 182,185
Chebucto Head, Nova Scotia 109
Chedabucto Bay, Briton Island 101
Chesapeake Bay 226
Chichiriuiclie llarbor, Colombia 470
Chignato Bay 127
Chincoteague Shoals, Maryland 218
Choiseul Bay, Patagonia 612
Chouchu Bay, St. Domingo 374
Christianstadtj town. West Indies ....413
Cinq Isles Bay, Newfoundland 48
Cispater Harbor, Colombia 487
Clatise Harbor, Newfoundland 41
Clouds 691
Clode Sound, Newfoundland 24
Coach Island, Colombia. 461
2*
Page
Coehinan Bay, Cuha .'t4d
Chiliinas IsLindii, (iuuteniala 511
C'oddlis Harbor, Nova Scotia t%Q3
('odora (.'ape, ('uiumliia 467
Cod Kay Island, Newfoundland 57
(Johasset Roikit, Mass 172
Colares, town, Bra/.il 543
Colinet Itay 38
C(dlier's May, Newfoundland 16
('ol(iiiil)ia, coast of 457, 4H3, 485
Colaria, Bra/.il 670
(Jolorado River, (Julf of Mexico 227
( 'olorado Rt'cf, Cuba 357
Cohnnbier Islaiul, Newfoundland 45
(.'(Hianicut Island, Rhode Island 199
( !onceicao, town, Bra/.il 561
(Jonception Bay, Newfoundland 16
(J(Uiception Island, West indies .313
(Jonck Harbor, Newf-mndland ,..,... 33
(Jonnaigre Harbor, Newfoundland .... 49
(Jonnecticut Kiver 205
Connoire Bay, Nowfoundland 54
Cook I'ort, Patagonia 602
(Jook's Harbor, Newfoundland 3a
Corbin Bay, Newfoimdiand 48
(Jorbin Harbor, NewfiQundland ...... . 44
Cordcs Bay, Patagonia ., ., .\: 6, 10
Cornfield llarbor, MuryUiU(4« '. .^ . . ,. .227
Cornwallis, Bay OfVuoilx 127
(Jorrieutes Cape, Cuba 360
( 'ountry Harbor, Notfa Scotia 103
Cow Head, Newfoundland ... 6Q
(Joy Inlet, Patagonia. ...,,.....,.., .%^
Co/.unuc Lsland, (iuatemala. ...... , .^ifi
(Jrab Island, West Indies 401
( Irane Island, St. Lawrence 74
Craney Island, Virginia . ., 924
('romwallier Harbor, Newfoundland, . . 34
Crooked Islands, W. Indies. .313, 31 1, 316
Croque Harbor, Ncwfonndland 33
Cross Island, St. Lawrence 88
Cross River, Maine .161
Crow Harbor, Breton Islands 101
Cruz Harbor, Colombia . . . . , 468
Cuba . .• , 329
Cuidado Reef, West Indies, ,,..,... .318
Culter Harbor, Labrador 1
Cuniana, town, Colombia , .4(53
Cumaribo, town, Colombia 470
Cumberland Harbor , ,342
Cuinl)erland Harbor, St. Lawrence,,. 8
Curazao, Colombia , 472
('urlew Harbor, Labrador . . , 5
Currituck Inlet, North Carolina. .... ,233
Curuan, town, Colombia , 467
Currents .,...,., , 674
Cutleau Bay, Newfoundland 54
Cutwell Harbor, Newfoundland 29
Currents, atmospheric 694
D
Damariscotta River, Maine 145
Damnable Harbor, Newfoundland.... 26
Dantzic Cove, Newfoundland 46
Darien, Georgia , 243
m
INDEX.
If%*
Page
Dartmouth Bay, Nova Scotia 113
Dauphin Island, Louisiana '^73
Dauphin Port, St. Domingo 37:2
Dawson Island, Patagonia bOl
Dawson's Cove, Newfoundland 4y
Dead Islands tiarbor, Newfoundland.. 55
Dead Man's Chest, Porto Rico 402
Dead Man's Harbor 4
Deamon Point, St. Lawrence 65
Decker's Narrows, Maine 161
Deep Inlet, North Carolina 235
Deer Harbor, Labrador 2
Deer Harbor, Newfoundland 1<)
Degrat Harbor, Newfoundland 35
Delaware Bay 220
Del Norte River, Gulf of Mexico 2H2
Delute Harbor, Passamacjuoddy 135
Demarara, South America 520, 523
Dennis Harbor, Massachusetts 183
Descondida Point, Gulf of Mexico... 282
Deseada, West Indies 36o
Despair Bay, Newfoundland I9
Devil's Bay, Newfoundland 51
Diana Reef, West Indies 314
Diegos Islands, West^Indies, . , 450
Dildo Harbor, Newfoundland 18
Disappointment Bay; Pata^jOnia 610
Dobay Sound, Georgia 243
Dog Island, Louisiana 273
Dominico- West Indies 427
Doable Headed Shot Keys 257
Douglass, town, Nova Scotia 89
Dover Bay, Nova Scotia 103
Dry Harbo", Jamaica. 397
Duck Harbor, Labrador 4
Durell's Ledge, Newfoundland, , 128
Dyer Cape, Patagonia 604
Dyer's Bay, Maine 138, 147
Dynely Sound, Patagonia 604
E
Eagle Bay, Patagonia 607
Eagle Cove, Labrador 4
Eagte Harbor, Labrador 9
Eddisto, South Carolina 240
Egniont Cape,Gulf of St. Lawrence.. 97
Eleuthera Island, West Indies 311
Elizabeth Cape, Maine 160, 153
Enganno Cape, St. Domingo 361
Engine Harbor, Nawfoundland 33
English Bank, St. Lawrence 73
English Harbor, Antigua. 420, 422
Englif^ Harbor, Newfoundland 20
Snglish Harbor, Newfoundland 47
Enraged Cape, Bay of Fundy 1 28
Enragee Point, Newfoundland 56
Ensenada, Brazil 583
Escondido Harbor, St. Domingo 363
Escondido Harbor, Trinidad 450
Escondido Port, Cuba 341
Escribanos Harbor, Darien 492
Esmeralda Bay, Colombia 458
Espirito Santo Bay, Brazil 551
Esquimaux Bay, St. Lawrence 8
{Esquimaux lalaud, St. Lawrence, . • • . 64
Page
Esquimaux Islands, St. Lawrence... 8
Esquimaux River, St. Lawrence 8
Ksscquibo River, Guyana 529
Etansr Harbor, Bay of Fundy 132
Exhuma Island, West Indies 312
Facheux Bay, Newfoundland 51
Fairweather Cape, Patagonia 59.1
Falkland Islands 5«4
Fallen City, West Indies... 410
Falmouth, Nova Scotia 127
Falmouth Harbor, Antigua 420, 422
Falmouth Harbor, Jamaica 396
False Cape, Virginia 223
False Cape Horn, Patagonia 627
Famine Port, Patagonia 600
Favorite Cove, Nova Scotia 120
Fear Cape, North Carolina 235
Fenirrie Harbor, Newlbnndland 47
Fermose Harbor, Newfoundland 13
Ferniowcs Harbor, Newfoundland .... 13
Fernando Noronha, Brazil 532
l''erroIle Bay, Newfoundland 61
Ferrolie Harbor, Newfoundland 61
Ferrolle Point, Newfoundland 61
Ferryland Harbor, Newfoundland .... 14
Ferrjland Head, Newfoundland 45
Fields Bay, Patagonia 605
Fincham Islands, Patagonia 623
Fire Island Inlet, Long Island 213
Fisher's Island, Connecticut 201
Fishing Ship Harbor, Labrador 3
Five Fathom Bank 321
Five Islands Harbor, Antigua 421
Fleur de Lis Harbor, Newfoundland.. 31
Flores Bay, Patagonia 614
Florida Reef 258, 262
Fogs 691
Fogo Islands, Newfoundland 28
Fond la Grange Bay, St. Domingo. . . 375
Formigas, West Indies 385
Fort Royal, Martinique 430, 436
Forteau Bay, St. Lawrence 7
Forlescue Bay, Patagonia 611
Fortune Bay, Newfoundland 46, 49
Fortune Harbor, Newfoundland 29
Fortune Island, West Indies 313
Fouchce Cove, Newfoundland 32
Fourchu Cape, Nova Scotia 125
Fox Island, Labrador 3
Fox Island, Newfoundland 39
Fox Island Passage, Maine 140
Francois Bay, Newfoundkaid 51
Franklin Light, Maine 145
Frayles Island, Colombia 460
Frederickstaed, town. West Indies ...413
Freels Cape, Newfoundland 26, 28
Frencli Cove, Nova Scotia 112
French Keys, West Indies 319, 322
Frenchman's Cove, Newfoundland. . . . 47
Freshwater Cove, Patagonia 609
Froward Cape, Patagonia 609
Frying Pan Shoal, North Carolina.... 235
Fuerte Island, Colombia , 487
INDEX.
xi
PnsTc I
Fundy, Bay of. Nova Scotia 123, 1.5.3 !
Kiiiik Islan'l, NowCounillaiid 28 ;
Fury llarljor, Patagonia 603 i
G
Gaharu." Bay, Breton Island
(iabricl Channel, Patagonia
(lalliboy's Harbor, Newfoundland . . . .
(lalloping Andrews, Newfoundland ...
Gaitaus Harbor, Newfoundland
(ralvcstou Bay, Gulf of Mexico
Gammon Point, Massachusetts
Gannet Rock, Bay of Fuudy
(iannets, Labrador
Gardiner's Bay, New York
(Jardiner's Island, New York
(iaria ]?ay. Newfoundland
(larroti 1 J arbor, Darien
Gaspe Bay, Nova Scotia ; . . . .
(iay Head Lighthouse, Mass.... 187,
George's River, Maine
Geors^e's Shoals
(reorgetown. District of Columbia. . . .
Georgetown, South Carolina 237,
< Jcorgctown, Toba-^o
Gibara Harbor, Cuba
(rilbert's River, Lfti)rador
Glasgow Harbor, Nova Scotia
Gloucester Cape, Patagonia
Gloucester Harbor, Massachusetts. . . .
Gloucester, Virginia
Goldsborough Harbor, Maine
Gonaives Harbor, St. Domingo . . .
Good's Bay, Patagonia
Good Success Cape, Patagonia . . .
Goose Bay, Newfoundland
(ioose Harbor, Newfoundland
Goose Island, St. Lawrei.ce 74,
Gracios a Dios Cape, Guatemala. .
Grafton Islands, Patagonia
Grammer's Rocks, Newfoundland .
(Jranadines, West Indies
Grand Bay, Newfoundland
Grand Bruit Harbor, Newfoundland...
Grandfather's Cove, Newfoundland ...
Grand le Pierre, Newfoundland
Grand Manan, Maine.
Grand Passage, Bay of Fundy
Grand Turk, West Indies
Great Adventure Cove, Newfoundland
Great Bay de I'Eau, Newfoundland. . .
Great Barrysway Harbor, Newfound..
Great Burin Harbor, Newfoundland. . .
Great Cat Arm, Newfoundland
Great Chance Harbor, Newfoundland,
^reat Coney Arm, Newfoundland . . . .
Great Corn Island, Guatemala
Great Egg Harbor, New Jersey
Great Gallows Harbor, Newfoundland.
Great Ilarljor Deep, Newfoundland...
Great Harbor, Newfoundland
Great Isaac, Bahamas
Great Jarvis Harbor, Newfoundland. . .
Great Metis St. Lawrence ..........
101
602
54
43
2-0
183
132
5
20G
210
55
494
8")
18'J
144
lf)5
227
238
443
3;?i
4
103
623
164
233
138
378
640
630
24
34
80
508
624
41
439
56
54
32
47
136
126
327
25
49
53
43
32
23
32
506
219
42
32
54
256
50
77
Pafre
Great Quirpon Harfjor, Newfoundland .35
(ireat River, Guatemala 507
Great Round Harbor, Newfoundland. . 30
Great Salmon River, Newfoundland .. 38
(treat Sandy Harbor, Newfoundland., 40
Great Sh )al, St. Lawrence 67
Great South Harbor, Newfoundland . . 40
Great St. Julien Harbor, Newfoundland 33
Green Bay, St. Lawrence 17
(Jreen Harbor, Nova Scotia 118
Green Island, Newfoundland 45
Green Island, Nova S'-otia 113, 115
Green Island, St. Lawrence 78
Greenport, Nev/ York 212
(Jreenspond Tickle, Newfoundland ... 27
Greenville Bay, St. Lawrence 97
Greenville, town, Grenada 439
Gregory Cape, Patagonia 697
Grenada, West Indies 439
Grenville Bay, St. Lawrence 97
Griguet Bay, Newfoundland 34
Guadaloui)e, West Indies 424
Guaianaco Islands, Patagonia ...636
Guanahani Island, West Indies 311
Guanico Harbor, Porto Rico . . . .403, 406
Guantanaiuo Harbor, Cuba 342
Guaratuba River, Brazil ....562
Guarico Harbor, St. Domingo .......373
Guaurabo River, Cuba .'.... . «if3i9
Guayamo Bay, Porto Rico 402
Gulf of Paria 444, 450, 452
Gulf Stream 649, 666
Gull Island, Long Island Soimd 210
Gull Rock, Newfoundland... 35
Guirior Bay, Patagonia .615
Gun Bay, Patagonia 615
GutofCanso 94
Guyana, South America 519, 530
Guysborough Harbor, Breton Island.. 102
Guy's Cove, Maine 145
H
Ha Ha Bay, Labrador, 9
Ha Ha Bay, Newfoundland 35, 53
Hail 691
Haldimand Port, Nova Sco^ia 120
Halifax, Nova Scotia , 108, 110
Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire ...159
Hampton Roads, Virginia 224
Hanover Island, Patagonia 640
Hant's Harbor, Newfoundland 18
Harbor Grace, St. Lawrence 17
Harbor Island, Bahamas 248
Harbor of Mercy, Patagonia 621
Hare Bay, Newfoundland 51
Hare Harbor, Labrador 6
Hare Islands, Labrador 3
Hare Island, St. Lawrence, 72
Harpswell Sound, Maine 151
Harrington Harbor, G. of St. Lawrence 97
Harris Bay, Patagonia 603
Hatteras Cape 233
Haute Island, Bay of Fundy 128
Haut Fond Shoal, St. Domiago 371
Xil
iNDtlX.
Pac:r
Havana, Cubd....«., 3;{9
Havre de Grace, Mar^jland 231
Hawke Bay, Labrador 4
Hawkins' Bay, Patagonia, . .... * 609
Hawkc's Harbor, Newfoundland 6l
Hay ti. West Indies »....«. 359
Haytien Cape, West Indies 322
Head Harbor, Nova Scotia 112
Head Harbor, Passamaquoddy Bay... 135
Heart's Content Harbor, Newfoundland 18
Heneagua Great, West Indies 317
Heneagua Little, West Indies 318
Henlopen Cape, Delaware 22o
Henry Cape, Virginia . .222, 225, 233
Henry Port, Patagonia 634
Hermitage Bay, Newfoundland 50
Herring Cove, Massachusetts 178
Herring Gut Harbor, Maine I4G
Herring Gut, Maine 145
Hickman's Harbor, Newfoundland. . . . 19
Hidden Harbor, Patagonia 609
Hidden Harbor, St. Domingo 363
Hillsborough Bay, G. of St. Lawrence 97
Hogoheehee River, Georgia 243
Hogaties, West Indies 3i7
Holderness Island, Nova Scotia 113
Hole in the Wall, Bahairas 248, 250
Hdlland Cape, Patago^i4.^ 610
Hdllamd Harbor, Gulf qf ^^.gjawrence 97
Holme's Hole, Massac^usetft 183, I9I
Honduras Bay, Guatemala 512
Hood Port, Breton Island 99
Hooping Harb6r, Newfoundland 32
Hope Harbor, Patagonia 624
Home Island, Louisiana 273
Home Islands, Newfoundland 31
ttorton. Bay of Fundy 127
Hubert's Cove, Nova Scotia 112
Huntington Bay, Long Island Sound .205
Huntington, Connecticut 202
Hurricane Bay, Bahamas 248
Hurricanes (W. C. Red;field on) 697
Hussey's Sound, Maine 152
Hyannes Harbor, Massachusetts 183
Hypocrite Passage', Massachusetts. . . .173
I
Ignacio Bay, Patagonia G37
Ilha Grande Bay, Brazil 556
Independent Hiirbor, Labrador 6
Indian Arm, Newfoundland 23
Indian Cove, Patagonia 627
Indian Keys, Cuba 353
Indian Sound, Patagonia 627
Ingornachoix Bay, Newfoundland.... 60
Ingram River, Nova Scotia 112
Inhabitant Bay, Nova Scotia 94
Inman Bay, Patagonia 609
Inman Cape, Patagonia 623
Ipswich Bay, Massachusetts 162
Iron-bound Island, Nova Scotia 113
Isabella Point, St. Domingo 370
Isle au Haut, Penobscot Bay 137
Isles of Shoals, New Hampshire 158
Isthmus Bay, Labrador 6
Page
J
Jackson's Arm, Newfoundland ..*.... ^'i
Jaquemel Harbor, St. Domingo 3{i4
Jagua Harbor, Cul)a ;j4rt
Jamaica, West Indies M^rt
Jardinellos, Cuba, . ., 851
Jardines, Cuba 351, 356
Jean Rabcl Harbor, St. Domingo . . . .376
Jebogne Harbor, Nova Scotia 125
Jedore Harbor, Nov?. Scotia 106
Jegogan Harbor, Nova Scotia 104
Jeremie, St. Domingo np:}
Jerome Channel, Patagonia Gl2
Jestico Harbor, Breton Island 99
Jesuits Sound, Patagonia. 637
John's Bay, Maine 1 ">
John's Bay Harbor, Maine 144
John River, Nova Scotia 92
Jones Harbor, Maine 139
Jnde Cape, Newfoundland 43
Judith Point, Rhode Island 199, 202
Jururu Port, Cuba 334
K
Kate Harbor, Newfoundland 23
Kamaraska Islands, ."■ r. Lawrence . .72, 80
Keel's Harbor, Newfoundland 23
Kelly Harbor, Patagonia 637
Kenipe Harbor, Patagonia 609
Kennebec River, Maine 149
Kennebunk Harbor, Maine 156, 157
Keppel Harbor, Nova Scotia 106
Key Biscayno, Florida 247, 363
Key Largo, Florida 247, 261
Key West, Florida 257, 266
King and Fitzroy Islands, Patagonia. .604
King's Harbor, Newfoundland 53
Kingston, St. Vincent's 438
L
Labrador, coasts of 1
Labrador harbor, St. Lawrence 7
La Bras d'Or harbor, J3reton Island . . 99
La Caleta, anchorage, St. Domingo . .361
LaCey harbor, Newfoundland 30
La Coue harbor, Newfoundland 55
La Coiite harbor, Newfoundlaml 47
La Ouayra Port, Colombia 467
Laguna, city, Brazil 566, 567
La Ilacha, city, Colombia 477
La Hnne Bay, Newfoundland 52
La ITune Cape, Newfoundland 51
La Moine harbor, Newfoundland 52
L'Ance de Loup, St. Lawrerce 7
L'Ance rUnion, Newfoundland 32
Langley Island, Newfoundland 46
La Perche hari)or, Newfoundland 41
Largent Bay, Newfoundland 47
La Poile Bay, Newfoundland 54
Lark Harbor, Newfoundland 59
Larido Bay, Patagonia 599
Last Hope Inlet, Patagonia 641
La Fete harbor, Bay of Fundy 1 32
Latitudes and Longitudes 674
T,atnur Port,
La Vache Islal
La Vela dc CJ
La Villa Caj)el
Laun Bay, Ne|
Laun Islands,
L'Kbcrt Port,
Leeward Bay, I
Leeward Islanl
Le Have Rivei|
Lcith harbor,
Lennox Island!
Lepreau PointI
Le Procheur, 1
Levantados Re
Level Bay, Pal
Lcwiston Roa(|
Lighthouses
Lion's Den, NI
Liscomb harbo
Little Hay, St.
Little Catalina
Little Cat Ann
Little Coney A
Little Cornlsl;
Little Egg Hai
Little Fish Ha
Little Gallows
Little harbor D
Little harbor, I
Little harbor, ^
Little Isaacs, E
Little Round h
Little River, N
Little Sandy ha
Little South ha
Liverpool Bay,
Livisa harbor, (
Lloyd's harbor,
Lobster harbor,
Lockwood's Fu
Londonderry, I
Long harbor, I
Long Island, B
Long Island ha
Long Island, N
Long Island S(
Long Island, \
Long Reach, I
Long's Wharf
Lookout Cape,
Lopez Cape, S
liord Nelson's
liouisbourg ha
Lucea harbor,
Lunenburg Ba
Lyuuhavcn Ba
Maces Bay, Bi
Machado Capi
Machapungo S
Machias, Main
Machias Seal ]
Madisoaville, ]
INDEX*
XllI
Tiatour Port, Nova Scotia 120
La Vache Island, West Indies 3^).')
La Vela de Coro, town, Colombia . . . .471
La Villa dxpe, Colombia 477
Laun Ray, Newfoundland 45
Laun Islands, Newfoundland 45
L'Kbcrt Port, Nova Scotia 117
Leeward Bay, Patagonia 641
Leeward Islands, Wesi Indies 409
Le Have River, Nova Scotia 115
Lcitli harbor. Nova Scotia Ill
Lennox Islands, Patagonia G-i'J
Lepreau Point, Nova Scotia l.'?0
Le Procheur, town, Martinique .... .4.'35
Levantados Road, St. Domingo 368
Level Bay, Patagonia 643
Lewiston Roads, Delaware 2'il
Lighthouses 719
Lion's Den, Newfoundland 24
Liscomb harbor. Nova Scotia 104
Little Bay, St. Lawrence 8
Little Catalina Bay, Newfoundland... 21
Little Cat Arm, Newfoundland 32
Little Coney Arm, Newfoundland 32
Little Corn Island , Guatemala 505
Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey 219
Little Fish Harbor, St. Lawrence 9
Little Gallows Harbor, Newfoundland. 42
Little harbor Deep, Newfoundland. ... 32
Little harbor, Newfoundland 40, 54
Little harbor, Nova Scotia 106
Little Isaacs, Bahamas 255
Little Round harbor, Newfoundland . . 30
Little River, North Carolina 235
Little Sandy harbor, Newfoundland... 40
Little South harbor, Newfoundland. . . 40
Liverpool Bay, Nova Scotia 116
Livisa harbor, Cuba 333
Lloyd's harbor, Long Island Sound... 205
Lobster harbor, Newfoundland 31
Lockwood's Folly Inlet, N. Carolina. .237
Londonderry, Bay of Fundy 127
Long harbor, Newfoundland 48
Long Island, Bay of Fundy 126, 131
Long Island harljor, Newfoundland ... 50
Long Island, Newfoundland. .. .24, 41, 50
Long Island Sound 213
Long Island, West Indies 311
Long Reach, Patagonia 646
Long's Wharf harbor, .Jamaica, 390
Lookout Cape, North Carolina 234
Lopci^ Cape, St. Domingo 364
liord Nelson's Strait, Patagonia 631
liouisbourg harbor, Breton Island. . . .101
Lucea harbor, Jamaica 395
Lunenburg Bay, Nova Scotia 115
Lynnhavcn Bay, Virginia 224, 233
M
Maces Bay, Bay of Fundy 130
Machado Cape, Patagonia 636
Machapungo Shoals, Virginia 223
Machias, Maine 138, 141
Machias Seal Island, ^ay of Fundy.. 132
Madisoaville, Louisiana 273
Page
Magalhaen's Strait of, t*atSgon'ia. 595
Magdalen Islands, St. Lawrence 87
Magdalena River, Colombia 478
Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia 131
Maize Cape, Cuba. 361, 340
Malabar Cape, Massachusetts 182
Mai Bay, Newfoundland 38
Mai Bay, Nova Scotia 89
Maldonado, Bra/.il. 570, 579
Malpec harbor, (hilf of St, Lawrence, 97
Manan Islands, Bay of Fundy, 130
Manare harbor, Colombia 464
Manati Port, Cuba 335
Manchester harbor, Massachusetts. . . .169
Manheigan harbor, Maine 148
Manheigan Island, Maine 144
Manicougan Point, St. Lawrence. .. . 46
Manoel Lui/, Shoal, Brazil 538
Man/.anares River, Colombia 478
Mnn/.anilla Bay, St. Domingo 372, 377
Manzanilla harbor, Darien 496
Manzanilla, Cuba 344
Marabona Bay, Jamaica 396
Maracaybo, Gulf of, Colombia 474
Maranhani, Brazil .540
Maravi Port, Cuba .^32
Marblehead harbor, Massachusetts.*.. .1$9
March harbor, Patagonia. ,v.'^^6
Margaret's Bay, ;Nova Scofia '^^l'i2
Margarita Island', Colombia 469
Maria Port, Jamaica .397
Marie Galante Island, West Indies. ..42S
Mariel Port, Cuba '..... . . . .359
Marcuria River, South America .528
Marnham Port, Labrador 2
Maroni River, South America ..538
Marsh Bay, Maine .141,
Martha Brae harbor, Jamaica 396
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. . . .188:
Martinique : 429^
Martin Vas' Rocks, South Atlantic. . .647
Masio Port, Cuba ..346
Mason's Bay, Bay of Fundy 150
Mata harbor, Cuba. 331
Matagorda, town. Gulf of Mexico . . . .281
Matamoras, town. Gulf of, Mexico. . . ,282
Matane River, St. Lawrence 62
Matanzas, Cuba 339
Matanzas, Florida .........261
Matomkin harbor, Virginia 223
Matoon Port, Nova Scotia 117
Mavinga harbor, Darien 492
May Cape, New Jersey 220
Mayaguana Island, W. Indies 318, 319, 320
Mayaguez harbor, Porto Rico 403, 405
May Point, Newfoundland 46
Mazaredo Bay, Patagonia 609
Mecatina Island, Labrador 9, 10
Melville Sound, Patag^oria .....604
Meogene Island, Bay of Fr.ndy 129
Merasheen Islands, Newfoundland. ... 41
Merchantman harbor, Labrador 3
Mermentao River, Gulf of Mexico... 280
Meteorology 689
Metway Port, Nova Scotia 116
XIV
INDEX.
1 l"v 'k
Page
Midflle Arm, Newfoundlniid ol
Middle Ground and Bank, St. Law-
rence; 72, 73
Middle Island, Newfoundland 4:}
Middieburgh town, Ciuayana 529
Middle Race Rock, Long Island Sound 209
Milford Haven, Breton Island 102
Mille harbor, Newfoundland 47
Mille Vache Point, St. Lawrence. ... 68
Miquelon Island, Newfoundland. .. .46, 49
Miragone harbor, St. Domingo. ..... .382
Mirapor Voa, West Indies. 31.3
Miray harbor. Gulf of St. Lawrence.. %
Mirimachi Bay, Nova Scotia 91
Mississippi River 276
Mistanog-je Bay, St. Lawrence 8
Mitford Rees Point, Patagonia 639
Mobile, Alabama 272, 274
Mob Jack Bay, Virginia 225
Mochima harbor, Colombia 463
Mona Isle, West Indies 360
Mongon Cape, St. Domingo 363
MonUlo Keys, Cuba 337
Monita Isle, West Indies 360
Monomoy Point, Massachusetts 184
Monos Island, Colombia 464
Montauk Pwint, Long Island 194, 206, 210
Monte Chtisti Reef," St. Domingo. . . .371
Mo»te ChristiRoad, St, Domingo 378
Monte Video, Braail;^. .' . . . .570, 577, 580
MoDtego Bay; Jamaica. ., 395
MoDtpelo Cape, St. Lawrence 65
Montserrat; West Indies 424
Moose Island, Maine 135
Moose Peak R,each, Maine 148
Morant Keys, Jamaica 385
Morant Port, Jamaica 398
Morro Blanco, Colombia 458
Mooosquillo, Gulf of, Colombia 486
' Mortier Bay, Newfoundland 43
Mosquito Coast, Guatemala 512
Mosqnito harbor, Newfoundland 52
Mount Desert, Maine. .' 136, 137, 138
Mauton Port, Nova Scotia, 117
Muia's Poiiit, Cuba 334
Murray. harbor.. Gulf of St. Lawrence. 96
Muscle harbor, Newfoundland 41
Mushaboon harbor. Nova Scotia 105
Musquash harbor, Bay of Fundy 130
Musquito harbor, Mame . . , 149
Musquito Inlet, Florida 246
N
Nantucket harbor 186
Nantucket Lighthouse 184
Nantucket Shoals 186
Nantucket South Shoals 188, 192, 194
Naos harbor, Dnrien 497
Narango Port, Cuba 334
Narborough Peckett's harbor, Patago. 598
Narragauset Bay, Rhode Island 199
Narrow Gauges, Maine ...148
Nash River, Patagonia .612
Nassau, Bahamas 248, 310
9au Bay, Patagonia. , , .628
Pactt
Nassau Islands, Patagonia 6(iB
Nausot harbor, Massachusetts 182
Navas Port, Cuba ;j;)i>
Nava/.a Islands, West Indies 3h5
Navy Bay, Diirlen 497
Neddnck Cape, Maine 15(J
Negrillo Shoal, Colombia 481
Negrillo Shoal, (Julf of Mexico 288
Negro Cape, Brazil 549
Negro Cape, Nova Scotia II9
Netsbuctoke, Labrador 6
Neuman Inlet, Patagonia 639
New Amsterdam, Guiana 522
New Bedford, Massachusetts 195
Newbury port, Massachusetts 159
New Carlisle, Nova Scotia 90
Newcastle, Delaware 221
Newfoundland and Banks 12
New Harbor, Newfoundland 27, 47
New Harbor, Nova Scotia 103
New Haven, Connecticut 212
New Inlet, North Carolina 233, 236
New London, Connecticut 207, 211
Newman's Sound, Newfoundland 24
New Meadow River, Maine 151
New Orleans, Louisiana 274
New Point Comfort, Virginia 225
Newport, Rhode Island 199
New Topsail Inlet, North Carolina 235
Nevis Island, West Indies 417
New York harbor and bay 214, 219
Nicaragua, coast of 501
Nick's Mate, Massachusetts 172
Niger Sound, Labrador 1
Nipe harbor, Cuba 333
Nipisighit, Breton Island 90
Nipper's harbor, Newfoundland 30
Nod'ly harbor, Newfoundland 35
Nombre de Dios harbor, Darien 493
Nonsuch harbor, Antigua 420
Norfolk, Virginia 22r>
North Broad Cove, Newfoundland .... 25
North Cape, Breton Island 57
Northeast Arm harbor, Newfoundland . 55
North Eddisto Inlet, South Carolina. .240
North harbor, Newfoundland 34, 38
North Inlet, Nortli Carolina 237
Norwalk, Connecticut 202
Nossa Senhora do Desterro, city, Bra-
zil 565, 567
Notch Cape, Patagonia 616
Nuevitas, Cuba 335
Nutlaud Bay, Patagonia 605
O
Oar Bay, Newfoundland 51
Obstruction Sound, Patagonia 642
Occasional harbor, Labrador 4
Ocoa harbor, St. Domingo 363
Oco Rios harbor, Jamaica 397
Ocracock Inlet, North Carolina 234
Old Cape Francois, St. Domingo 370
Old harbor, Jamaica 390
Old Jerusalem, West Indies 410
Old Man's Bay, Newfoundland 52
INDEX.
XV
PufiC
Old Matacumhe 2G0, iJ(i4
Old Point Coiiiloit, Virginia 2J1, 'J'2i3
Old Proprietor, Bay of Fundy 131
(.)ld Stamo harbor, Massachusetts Ida
Old Topsail inlet, North Carolina '234
Olimla City, Brazil 544
Omoa harbor, (iiiatemala 512
Onslow, Bay of Fundy 127
Open Bay, Patagonia 643
Ora Cabecca harbor, Jamaica ,3'J7
Orangp Bay, Newfoundland 32
Orange Bay, Patagonia, 627
Orange Keys, ]}ahamas. , '<J5'2
Orinoco River, S. America. .5vi0, 524, 52'J
Orleans Island, St. Lawrence * 75
Oruba Island 473
Osorno Bay, Patagonia .014
Otter Bay, Newfoundland 55
Otway Port, Patagonia 63!)
Owl's Head harbor, Maine 142
Owl's Head harbor. Nova Scolia 106
Owl's Head, Nova Scotia \V1
Oyapoc River, South America 5' ti
Oyster Bay, Long Island Sound 205
Oyster Pond Point, Long Island. 209, 212
P
Padre Port, Cuba 335
Pampetai, town, Colombia 460
Pamtico Sound, North Carolina 234
Paquet harbor, Newfoundland 30
Para, Brazil 541
Paradise Sound, Newfoundland 42
Paramaribo, Surinam 528, 529
Parangua, Brazil 562
Park Bay, Patagonia 604
Parkham harbor, Antigua . . , 422
Parry harbor, Patagonia 603
Partridge Bay, Labrador 4
Partridge Island, Bay of Fundy 129
Pasa del Caballo, Gulf of Mexico 281
Passage Island, West Indies 313
Passamaquoddy Bay, Maine 134
Pass Island, Newfoundland 49
Patagonia, coast of 587
Patapsco River, Maryland 231
Patuxent, Rhode Island 200
Patuxent River, Maryland 228
Peake Bay, Jamaica 391
Peale Inlet, Patagonia 642
Pearl Lagoon, Guatemala 504
Pedro Bay, Jamaica 393
Penguin Islands, Newfoundland 51
Penmequids harbor, Maine 144
Penobscot Bay and River, Maine .. 142, 143
Pensacola, Florida 271, 274
Perlican, Old and New, Newfoundland, 18
Pernambuco, Brazil 534, 544
Petit Fort harbor, Newfoundland 42
Petit Passage, Bay of Fundy 126
Petty Harbor, Labrador 2
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 222
Phillip River, Nova Scotia 9^
Picarre Harbor, Newfoundland 60
Fictou, Nova Scotia 93
' Page
Piedras Keys, Cuba 337
I'ilgriin Islii-ids, St. Lawrence 72
Pities, Isle of 352, 354
Piper's Hole, Newfoundland 40
Pistolet Bay, Newfoundland 35
Pitts Harbor, Labrador 1
Placentia Bay and harbor. Newfound.. 39
Pleasant River, Maine 148
Plum Island, Long I. Sound, 207, 209, "212
Plum Island, Massachusetts 159
Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts 175, 176
Pocklington, Labrador 1
Page Cape, Massachusetts 184
Polluck Shoal, Nova Scotia 107
Ponce, Porto Rico 402
Ponchartrain Lake, Louisiana 273
Pope's Harbor, Nova Scotia 106
Porpoise Cape, Maine 105
Port au Petre, Guadaloupe 425
Port au Prince, St. Domingo 380
Port Bonaventure, Newfoundland 19
Port Caballos,Guatemala 611
Port Cavallos, Guatemala 511
Port Clerke, Patagonia ^ 626
Port Desire, Patagonia 589
Port d'Espagne, Trinidad 460
Port El Rogue, Colombia .....471
Port Francois, St. Domingo ....37.4
Port Grave, Newfoundland 16
Portland Harbor, Jamaica.... 392
Portland, Maine 152
Port Maxwell, Patagonia ....'. 629
Porto Bello, Darien ", . .495, 49»
Porto Cabello, Colombia ....'.. 469
Porto Rico, West Indies 400, 404
Porto Securo, Brazil 552
Port Paix, St. Domingo 376tt
Port Plata, St. Domingo 370-
Port Royal, Jamaica 388^
Port Royal, South Carolina 240
Portsmouth, Doujinica 428
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. . . .157, 161
Porv' St. Elena, Patagonia 687
Portuguese Ascension, South Atlantic «9
Posadas Bay, Patagonia 614
Possession Bay, Patagonia .596
Potomac River 228
Prado, city, Brazil 553
Presque Harbor, Newfoundland ...... 41
Prince Amilca River, Guatemala 507
Prince Edward's Island, Gulf of St.
Lawrence 96
Prince's Bay Lighthouse, New Jersc" !17
Prospect Harbor, Maine 138
Prospect Harbor, Nova Scotia 124
Providence Cape, Patagonia 618
Providence Channel, Bahamas 250
Providence Island, Guatemala. ...... .506
Providence, Rhode Island 20O
Provincetown Harbor, Massachusetts .174
Puerta de Plata, St. Domingo 370
Puerto Real, Jamaica 406
Purcell Island, Patagonia 638
Purwick Cove, Newfoundland 3X
XVI
INDEX.
Page
Q
Quaco, Bay of Fuudy 128
Quebec, Canadii 76, 8.'3
Quirpon harbor, Newfoundland. , . .uo, 30
Quirpon Island, MewfoundJand 34
R
Race Cape, Newfoundland 13, 720
Race Point, Massachusetts 177
Racoon Keys 'Z'6'J
Ragged harbor, Newfoundland a8
Ragged Island, Bahamas 315
Rain 6^1
Ram Islands, Newfoundland 3!)
Ramier ha-'.or, Newfoundland b2
Ramsheg he or. Nova Scotia 91>
Random Souna, Newfoundland J!)
Raphael Cape, St. Domingo 351, 3(jrt
Rappahannock River, Virginia. . .226, 232
Raspberry harbor. Nova Scotia 103
Rattan Island, Guatemala .510
Ray Cape, Newfoundland 50, 720
Razade Islands, St. Lawrence 71
Red Bay, St. Lawrence 7
Redfield W. C. on Storms and Hurri-
canes. 697
Red harbor, Newfoundland 42
Red Island harbor, Newfoundland. ... 53
Bed Island, Newfoundland 41
Rod Island, St. Lawrence 71
Redonda Island, West Indies 424
Reedy Island, Delaware Bay 221
Rencontre Bay, Newfoundland, 51
Rtfljowes harbor, Newfovndland 13
Riipde Island Harbor 198
Richibucto harbor, Nova Scotia. 91
Richmond Bay, Gulf of St. Lawrence 97
Rich Point, Newfoundland 61
Riding Rocks, Bahamas 253
Rio Bucnq har' ir, Jamaica 397
Rio de la Plata, Brazil 569
Rio Grande, Brazil. 553
Rio Grande de San Pedro, Brazil 568
Rio Janeiro, Brazil 555
Rio Negrq, South America 584
Rio San Francisco, Brazil 562
Ristigquche harbor. Nova Scotia 90
River Islands, Labrador 1
River Plate, Brazil 569
Road of Naso, Loursiana .276
Robin Hood's Bay, Newfoundland. ... 20
Roccas, Brazil 553
Roche Avignon, St. Lawrence 74
Rockaway Inlet, Lonr Island 214
Rock harbor, Newfoundland 43
Roman Cape 238
Romano Cape. 266
Romano Key, West Indies 335
Rosario Islands, Colombia 485
Rose Blanche liarbor, Newfoundland. , 55
Rotte Bay, Newfoundland 64
Round harbor, Labrador 3
Round harbor, Newfoundland 50
^0X0 Cape, Gulf of Mexico 306
Page.
Rugged Island harbor. Nova Scotia. . .118
Rum Key, West Indies 31ii
S
Saba Island, West Indies 417
Sabanilla harbor, Colombia , . . .4;(«
Sabine River, (<ulf o.' Mexico Q^^o
Sable Cape, Nova Scotia 1^0, 121
Sable Island, Nova Scotia 1:^1, 717
Sable Kiver, Nova Scotia 117
Saco, Maine i5(i
Saddleback, Newfoundland .... 43
Sag hatbor, New York ....212
Sagona Island, Newfoundland 46
Sail harbor, Maine 140
Saintes Ishind, West Indies 4-,>6
Salado River, Colombia 4^8
Salaniaruiuilla island, Colombia 486
Salem harbor, Massachusetts 107
Salinas Harbor, Port Rico 402
Salinas Point, .St. Domingo 36'J
Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts 100
o It Key Bank ... .257
Salt Key, West Indies 327
Salt River, Jamaica 391
Salvage Bay, Newfoundland 26
Saniana Bay, St. Domingo 308
Sama Tort, Cuba 334
Sambro Harbor, Nova Scotia Ill
San Antoi !o Port, Patagonia 60I
San Bartholo;''ew Cape, Patagonia. . . .631
San Bias Channel, Patagonia 634
San Bias. Gulf of, Darien 491
San Diego Cape, Pat,.gonia 630
Sand Key, Florida 1>47, 260, 262
Sand Key, West Indies 326
Sandwich Bay, Labrador 6
Sandwich Harbor, Massachusetts 174, 179
Sandy Bay, Guatemala 513
Sandy Bay, Labrador 5
Sandy Bay, Massachusetts 162
Sandy Bay, Patagonia 634
Sandy Hook, New Jersey 217
Sandy Island Bay, St. Lawrence 8
Sandy Point, Nantucket 183
Sandy Point, Patagonia 599
San Estevan Channel, Patagonia 642
San German, town, Porto Rico 405
San Juan de Nicaragua, Darien 503
San Pedro Sound, Patagonia. 609
San .Sebastian Harbor, Brazil 566
San Tadeo River, Patagonia 638
Santa Anna, city, Brazil 507
Santa Cataliua Island. . , 506
Santa Cruz Bay, Colombia 404
Santa Cruz Isiind, West Indies 413
Santa Fe, Gulf of, Colombia 404
Santa de la Marina, Gulf of Mexico. .283
Santa Lucia Cape, Patagonia 034
Santa Martha Harbor, Colombia 478
Santee River, South Carolina 238
Santiago, Barra de Texas 282, 720
Santiago Cape, Patagonia , 634
Santo Anna Point, Patagonia 600
Santos Port, Brazil 559
Sapelo IshI
Sarmiento]
Saunde's
Saumar' z
Savanna d«
Savannah
Savannah
Savage Col
Savage Haj
Say brook,
Scarborouil
Scatari Isll
Schapenhril
Schetky Cl
Scituate Hi
Scuttock l{
Sea Bear i|
Sea BreezcT
Sealing BiJ
Seal Island
Seara Tow
Secretary ^
SedgerRiv
iSeguine, JV
Selina, tow
Serpent's I
Serrana Ke
Severn Riv
Shallow B
Shallow ay
Shecatica
Sheep Kej
Sheepscut
Sheet Harl
Shelburne
Shelter Isl
Sherbiook
Ship ilarb^
Ship Harb
Shoal Bay,
Shoals, Isl
Sholl Bay,
Shut-In h
Silver Key
Silver Key
Sir John
gonia. .
Sisal, towi
Sisal Shos
Sisibou R
Smitli's Is
Smith's S
Smithville
Smyrna, 1
Smyth Hi
.Snug Hai
Soan Isl?
Sola Islet
Sombrero
Sophia H
South C
South Et
Southwai
Spaniard'
Spanish '
INDEX.
XVU
tia...ll8
aiL'
417
470
1-J
7]'
..117
.,15()
.. 43
..LM13
.. 46
..14'2
..4 -,'6
.Am
..4H6
..167
..402
..'MVl
..160
..257
..327
..syi
,. 26
.368
.334
.111
.601
.631
.634
.491
.630
60, 262
...326
... 6
M, 179
..513
,. 5
..162
..634
..217
.. 8
..183
..599
.642
.405
.503
.609
.566
.638
.567
.506
.464
.413
.464
.283
1.634
.478
.238
, 720
.634
.600
.569
Page
Sapelo Isli\n(l, Georgia 243
Sariniento Channel, Patagonia 042
Saunde 's Port, Nowl'oundl.jd do
Saumar'z Island, Patagonia 642
Savanna de la Mar, St. Doniingo 369
Savannah de la Mar, 'amaica 394
Savannah River, (Georgia 242
Savage Cove-, Newfoundland 62
Savage Harbor, Gulf of St. Lawrence. . 97
Saybrook, Connecticut 203,211
Scarborough, Tobago 442
Scatari Island, Gulf of St. Lawrence. .100
Schapenham Bay, Patagonia 623
Schetky Cape, Pa';i?,onia 623
Scituate Harbor, Massachusetts 175
Scuttock Island, Maine 147
Sea Bear Bay, Patagonia 590
Sea Breezes 696
Sealing Bight, Jjabrador 3
Seal Islands, Labrador 5
Seara Town. Brazil 536
Secretary Wren's Island, Patagonia. . .611
Sedger River, Patagonia 607
Seguine, Maine 147
Selina, town, Brazil 540
Serpent's Island, West Indies 401
Serrana Keys, West Indies 507
Severn River, Virginia 226
Shallow Bay, Labrador 6
Shalloway Island, Newfoundland 44
Shecatica Bay, S* Lawrence 8
Sheep Keys, Bahamas 254
Sheepscut River, Maine 149
Sheet Harbor, Nova Scotia 105
Shelburne Harbor, Nova Scotia 118
Shelter Island, New York 211
Sherbiook Tower, Nova Scotia 109
Ship II:.rbor, Newfoundland 39
Ship Harbor, Nova Scotia 94, 106
Shoal Bay, Nova Scotia lOo
Shoals, Isles of. New Hampshire 158
Sholl Bay, Patagonia 603
Shut-In Harbor, Newfoundland 19
Silver Key Bank, West Indies 328
Silver Key Passage, West Indies 329
Sir John Narborough's Islands, Pata-
gonia 621
Sisal, town. Gulf of Mexico 284
Sisal Shoal, Gulf of Mexico 286
Sisibou River, Bay of Fundy 127
Smith's Island, Maryland 223
Smith's Sound, Newfoundland 19
Smithville, North Carolina 235
Smyrna, Florida 241, 261
Smyth Harbor, Patagonia 606
Snug Harbor, Labrador 4
Soan Island, West Indies 361
Sola Islet, Colombia 461
Sombrero Island, West Indies.. .414, 720
Sophia Harbor, Labrador 2
South Carolina 241
South Eddisto Idlet, South Carolina. .240
Southward Bay, Newfoundland 23
Spaniard's Bay, St. Lawrence 17
iSpaaish Town, West Indiet ....409
3*
Pagt
Spear Harbor, Labrador 2
Spotted Islands, Labrador 5
Spry Harbor, Nova Scotia 106
Square Handkerchief, West Indies... 328
Sijuare Island, harbor, Labrador , 4
St. Andrew's Bay, Florida 270
St. Andrew's Harbor, Bay of Fundy.. 132
St. Andrew's Island, West Indies 504, 605
St. Andrew's Sound, Patagonia 642
St. Ann Harbor, Curazao 473
St. Ann's Bay, St. Domingo 397
St. Ann's Harbor, Breton Island 99
St. Anthony's Harbor, Newfoundland 34
St. Antonio Cape, Brazil 544, 547, 673
St. Antony Cape, Patagonia 631
St. Augustine Cape, Brazil 646
St. Augustine, Florida 245
St. Augustine Port, Labrador 9
St. Barbe, Bay of Newfoundland 68
St. Bartholomew's Islands, W. Indies 416
St. Bias Cape, Florida 267, 274
St. Catherine's Island, Brazil 563
St. Catharine's Sound, Georgia 243
St. Croix Island, West Indies 413
St. David's Sound, Patagonia 612
St. Domingo, city. , .361
St. Domingo Island, West Indies.... 369,
St. Esprit Reef, West Indies. .,,,... .4w
St. Estevan Gulf, Patagonia 6S$
St. Eustatius, West Indies •^4|7
St. Fernando River, Gulf of Mexico.. 2^
St. Francis Cape, Newfoundland, .... 15
St. Francis Harbor, Labrador, ....... 3
St. Francis River, Gulf of Mfexico. . .285>
St. Francois, Guadaloupe 425
St. Genevieve Bay, Newfoundland.... 61
St. George Cape, Florida SpS^
St. George's Bay, Newfoundland. .. ..'|l|
St. George's Bay, NoVa Scotia , 94
St. George's Town, Greijada .,,,.... ,4^
St. Gregory Cape, Newfoundland 69
St. Helena Sound, South Carolina.. .242
St. .lacques, Newfoupdland 48
St. .Tagode Cuba ; 343
St. Jago, St. Domingo...'.,... 370
St. John, Bay of, Newfoundland 61
St. John's, Florida 245
St. John Island, West Indies 411
St. John's Harbor, Antigua 423
St. John's Harbor, Bay of Fundy 128, 129
St. John's Harbor, Newfoundland 15
St. John's Island, Gulf of St. Lawrence 96
St. Juan Harbor, Porto Rico.... 400, 401
St. Kitt's, West Indies 418
St. Lawrence, Gulf of , 87
St. Lawrence Harbor, Newfoundland 44
St. Lawrence River, 63, 74, 76
St. Louis Bay, St. Domingo 366
St. Louis River, Labrador 2
St. Louis, town, Gaudaloupe .428
St. Lucia, West Indies 437
St. Luis Harbor, Brazil 538
St. Lunaire Bay, Newfoundland 34
St. Marco Bay, Brazil 538
St. Mark Cape, St. Domingo 37^
XVIU
INDEX.
Page
St. Mark's, FloridR 2C7, L>6<)
St. Martin's Island, West Indies 415
St. Mary Cape, i ra/.il 571', 578
St. Mary Point, V atagonia 5<)')
St. Mary's JJay, IJay of Fundy 126
St. Mary's, Gt'uigia 244
St. iMary's 'liver, Maryland 227, 232
St. Mary's River, Nova Scotia 104
St. Michael's ]iay, Labrador 4
St. Nicholas Bay, Pat;ij;onia 608
St. Nicholas Harbor, 'Juif of St. Law-
rence 66
St. Nicholas Mole, Sti Domingo 377
St. Paul's Island, Gulf of St. Law-
rence 57, 87, 720
St. Peter's Bay, Labrador 1
St. Peter's Harbor, G. of St. Lawrence 97
St. Peter's Island, Newfoundland 45
St. Pierre, Martinique 429, 434, 436
St. Roipie Capo, Brazil 534
St. Riryas Bay, Florida 270
St. Salvador Bay, Brazil 547
St. Sebastian, town, Brazil 558
St, Simon's Sound, Georgia 244
St. Thomas, West Indies 412
St. Valentyu Cape, Patagonia 603
Si. Vincent Cape, Pataaonia. . „ 630
St. Vlpbent'Si West Indies 438
^tat^D Islapd, Patagonia 631
Steivart's! Birjr, P.atae;onia 615
Stirrup JC|>, ffahamas 252
Sto.qington. Harb.>r, Connecticut 2rtl
Stoqo Inlet, South Carolina 240
Testigos Islands, Colombia 457
Texas . , 2n2
Thatcher's Island, Ma8sacl\usetts 174, 175
Thomas C'ai)e, Brazil .550
Three Fathoms Harbor, Nova Scotia. .107
Three Points Cape, Patagonia 634
Three Rivers, (lulf of St. Lawrence. . . 96
Throg's Point, Long Island Sound ...205
Thunder Storms and Gusts 69i
Tiburon Ca^)e, St. Domingo 384
Tichfield, town, Jamaica 398
Tides 668
Tiger Point, Gulf of Mexico 280
Timbalier Island, Louisiana 278
Titmanan, Maine 138
Tobago, West Indies 442
Tolu, town, Colombia 486
Torbay Harbor, Nev.foundland 15
Torbay, Nova Scotia 103
Tortofa Road, West Indies. .409, 410, "11
Tortue, Channel of, St. Domingo . . . .376
Tortue Island, West Indies. 322
Tortuga Island, Colombia 466
Tortugas, Florida 247, 258
Toubalier Island, Louisiana 278
Toulinguet Harbor, Newfoundland ... 30
Town's End Harbor, Maine 145, 149
Tracadia, St. Lawrence 97
Trade Winds 694
Traverse, St. Lawrence 74
Treble Island, Patagonia 626
Trebiippy, Guatemala 514
Tres Montes Cape, Patagonia 649
Storjmy Bay, Patagonia 604 ! Tres Puntas, Colombia, 457
Storm$, ( W. C. Redfieia on) 697
Stratford Point, Connecticut 203
Suliiytiq's Island, South Carolina 239
Suotmer's Islands 208
Sll,|ii>ury, Georgia. 243
Sundy Cape, Patagonia 622
Surinam, South America. . . .520, 521, 528
Suwanee River, Florida 268
Swallow Harbor, Patagonia 615
Sweet Bay, Newfoundland 23
Sydney Harbor, Breton Island 100
T
Tabasco River, Gulf of Mexico 295
Table Bay, Labrador 5
Taco Port, Cuba 332
Tamar Harbor, Patagonia 646
Tampa Bay, Florida 269
Tampicd, Gulf of Mexico 306
Tanamo Port, Cuba 333
Tangier Harbor, Nova Scotia 106
Tangier Sound, Maryland 226
Tarpaulin Cove, Massachusetts 189
Tarrent Harbor, Maine, 142, 149
Tate Cape, Patagonia 623
Tatmago^che, town. Nova Scotia 92
Taylor's Bay, Newfoundlaad 45
Tennant Harbor, Nova Scotia Ill
T-en Pound Island, Massachusetts. . . .163
Temperature of Elevation 690
Termlno» Lake, Gulf of Mexico . . , « , .2<!;5
Trinidad^, city, Cuba 315, 347
Trinidad, Gulf of, Patagonia 635
Trinidad, Isle of, South America 547
Trinidad, West Indies 444
Trinity Bay, Newfoundland 18, 20
Trinity Bay, St. Lawrence 65
Trinity Harbor, Martinique 432, 433
Triton Harbor, Newfoundland 29
Truro, Bay of Fundy 127
Truro Harbor, Massachusetts 180
TucKinuck Channel, Massachusetts ..193
Tupilco River, Gulf of Mexico. ..... .295
Turiamo Harbor, Colombia. . . , 469
Turk's Island, West Indies 325, 326
Tusket River, Nova Scotia ] 24
Tybee Inlet, South Carolina 241
U
Unare Bay, Ci ombia 457
Union River, Maine 141
Upright Cape, Patagonia 618
Uraba, Gulf of, Colombia .488
Uriarte Port, Patagonia 620
Useless Bay, Patagonia 601
Utila Island, Guatemala 511
Valdez Port, Patagonia 602
Valle Bay, St. Lawrence 68
Vela Port, Cuba 334
Veneauela, Gulf of, Colombia, , , 474
Vera Crul
Verde Bal
Verte Baf
Victoria,
Victory (|
Vie(|ue Is
Villa Novl
Villena C|
Virginia,
Virgin (iJ
Virgin Islj
Virgin R(
Virgin's
Wadham
Warsaw Si
Warwick,]
Washingt(l
Watch Hi
Waterman
Water Spc
Watland's
Wellfleet
West Cap
Westminsi
Westward
Whales B;
Whale So
Whirlwiud
White Ba
White Bed
White He;
White Hil!
White Isla
White Isla
AVhite Isla
'VViconiact
Willes Ba;
/7
//
»a:
Page
457
. , Uf<a
ctts 174, 175
55<l
ycotia..l07
I 6:!4
rence... %
ound ...205
(i<)v>
384
398
668
280
278
138
442
486
1 15
103
09,410, '11
'go ....376
- 322
466
...a47, 258
278
and ... 30
...145, 149
97
694
74
626
[ 514 -
...649
...457
.315, 347
...635
a.... .547
...444
...18, 20
65
432, 433
.... 29
127
180
letts ..193
....295
469
325, 326
...124
...241
INDEX.
XIX
Pai^e
Vera Cm/., CJiilf of Mexico ...^ ,197
Verde Day, St. Lnwreiire 18
Verte iJay, Nova Scolia !)2
Victoria, city of, lira/ii 551
Victory Cape, Patagonia 634
Vieque Island, West Indies 401
Villa Nova, city, Brazil 567
Villena Cov ,, Patagonia 6l5
Virginia, (Jajjcs of 223
Virgin (Jorda Island, West Indies . . . .409
Virgin Islands 409
Virgin Rocks, Newfoundland 13
Virgin's Cape, Patagonia 595
w
Wadham Islands, St. Lawrence 28
Warsaw Sound, Georgia 243
Warwick, Rhode IslamI . . 201
Washington, North Carolina 234
Watch Hill Light, Conneciic , .201
Waterman Island, Patagonia 626
Water Spouts 693
Watland's Island, West Indies 312
Wellfleet Hnrbor, Massachusetts 201
West Cape, Patagonia 628
Westminster Hall, Patagonia 622
Westward Arm, Newfoundland 31
Whales Pack Liaht, New Hampshire 157
Whale Sound, Patagonia 612
Whirlwinds 693
White Bay. Newfoundland 31
White Ber.r Bay, Newfoundland 53
White Head, Maine 142
White HiUs. Ne-.v Hampshire 155
White Island, St. Lawrence 71
White Island, New Hampshire 158
White Islands, Newfoundland 34
'Wicomack, Maryland 232
Willes Bay, Patagonia 603
Page
Wilmington, North Carolina 236
VVin<ls , .680
Windsor, Nova Scotia 125
Windward (Jliannel, West Indies 316, 386
Windward Islands, West Indies 409
Windward Passage, West Indies 322
Winter Harbor, Maine 166 '
Winyaw Bay, Carolina 238
Wiscasset, Maine 151
Withy Wood Bay, Jamaica 393
Witless Bay, Newfoundland 14
Wolf Bay, Newfoundland 63
Wolf's Cove, St. Lawrence 7
Wood Island, Bay of Fundy.. 131
Wood Island Light, Maine 156
Wood's Bay, Patagonia 610
Wye1R,ocks, St. Lawrence ...76, 82
X
Xngua Harbor, Cuba 348
Xibera Harbor, Cuba 3,34 "
Xicalango Point, Gulf of Mexico. .. .284
Y
Yaguaneque Harbor, Cuba 333
Yarmouth Harbor, Nova Scotia 126
Yarmouth, Massachusetts 179, 183
Ycacos Keys, Cuba .3^,,.
York Bay, Labrador ;.., ^ '
York Harbor, Newfcnndland. . .„^^j^. TO
York River, Virginia. . . . .' , m^^ .233
York Town, Virginia.. .....,;, jj,,-. 233
Ysabella Point, St. Domingo. . «;»••. 370
Yuma Island, West Indies .311
Z
Zacheo Island, West Indies 3®8|
Zamba Island, Colombia ,...480^
Zanhio Island, West Indies.,,..,,.., 360'
/?
/•"^
/
t^./-:-' "'- ^^ '
oi-» :*
xjot
*^/J
a:p. H.h)
t\
ri
'/
./f.
^y-
/^ ««»
..* <•■*
?^^ '/
..457
,.141
.618
, .488
620
.601
.511
...602
. 68
« • • U«J4
...474
m
YORK,
Known by l\
• iitriiiici' nil
(IllMIl llMVI' tl
to till' l)i>y, \\
not l)t' ulili'
better iii;iik
fimire. term
liiml to tlie (
shore ; wliil
'l\) sail ill!
side, ;i!ul em
trii point ol
appcMriiiij; jl
h'lnd ; tlicn,
nearly niidw
land : haul (
Whale Islaii
to open the
bor, tiieii li;
open ofWli
clear from d;
tlionis, with
your fishery.
Heidey islati
One mile t
Island ; betw
and also opcr
Peter's tslam
chorace, bnt
CAPKCl
ing with a hi
the westwart
lies S. E. by
rate lieiQ:ht. ;
.From St. P(
between thei
islands bet'or
ward of thes(
water; the c
CAPE CI
Cape Charlf
by Eyre and
there is very
and yon nia^
and Little C
From Caf
distance 4i i
a larfie mile
i-ound at the
From the
I W. d- tatil
Islands, you
vessels may
COAI^T OF LARKADOR,
FROM YORK POINT TO SANDWiril IIARROR.
Variation allmced from Yink Paint to S indiC'rh llarhor 2',' and 3 Points.
YORK, or OHATKAFX RAY, li.-s al.ont ](> milcn X. W. 1 N. fiom the sonfli-wpstprn
|i(»irit ol' Rfllc Islt.', hikI H Icimiies N. ^' W . Inmi llic llirlmr of (iuii|>(m; it iiiiiy riisily he
Known by two very re in ink ;t hie, liills, sitiiiitfd on ( 'iistl(> ;ni(l I Irnlcy Isliinds, wliicli lie iu the
••ntnuiee oC the liny; these roeky iiiils iippear ll.it iit (lie tops, and tin- steep hills iironnil
them have the appearanee ofeastie walls; the islands Conn the eastern side ot'tlie einranee
to the hay, while tin; CajM-s V(M'k and Teini'le are to the westward ; hnt as the mariner may
not he aide to discover the ahovc hills at a distance, hccanse oCtlic hiiili land lichind, the
better marks will he, to observe that all the land to the westward is cd' a hii;li and nnilorni
(innre, terminatiii_<; at the west .sicie of the bay wiih a coiispicnons UfM)l) or iiillock, while the
land to the eastward of ("hafeanx I'ay is hilly and broken, having many islands ni'iir the
shore ; while to the westward there ;n(> none.
'i'o sail intr) Cliateaiix I5ay. yon most leave ("astle and [fenloy Islands on your starboard
side, and endeavor to kee|) Point (Jrenvilie, \vliich has a beacon upon it, on with tln^ west-
ern point ol' Henley fsland ; this point is a suioo'h black rock, liavinji a little dark rock just
»pi)eariti4i above water o(K its point ; keep this mark on until yon }:et abreast of Whale 1»-
l;ind ; then, to avoid tlie middle rock, itver which are only ') feet water, and which lies
nearly midway between the east puini of Whale Island and the black point of Henley Is-
land ; hanl over close to Menley l>hick Kock, or borrow towards, bnt not too near, to
Wliale Island, for here it runs off shallow and (bt ; and whJiii yon .ire so far advanced as
to open the narrow eliannel into Temple J5ay. witJi the view of sairmu; up info Pitt's Har'
bor, then liaiil to tiie westward, until you brin.; the outer point of Castle I<)land, a Httle
open of Whale fsland; this mark will lead you up into I'ills Harbor, whicli is spacious,
clear from danger, and well sheltered from all winds; here you may ride in 10 or 14 fa-
thoms, with plenty of timber ready for your use, and every ce enicncy for carrying on
your fishery. There is also a narrow passage into Pitt's liar or, to the northward of
Henley Island, throufih which you will have .'! fathoms wafer.
One mile to flu- eastward of llenley Island, lien Seal Island, and 3^ miles farther is Duck
Island ; between these is (loose and JJad l>ay, full of rocks both above and below the water,
and also o|ieii to the easterly winds. To the eastw ard of Seal Island, distant 6 niilCii, is St.
Peter's Islands, a cluster of barren rocks, within which is St. Peter's Bay, a good place of an-
chorage, but too nmchex))osed to the south ainl soiiili-easterly winds to be much frequented.
CAPE CHARIjKS. — To the norlh-eastwaid of St. Peter's Island is Cape Charles mak-
ing with a high hill, steep to seaward, and slo|;ing down inland, so tliat wherlr you are to
the westward of Chateaux Ray, it has tin; a]>pearanee of an island. Cape Charjes Island
lies S- E. by E. | E. distant aljotit one and a lialf mile /Vom Ca])e Charles ; it is of mode-
rate height, and has several small rocks i)oih to the eastward and to the westward f)f it.
.From St. Peter's Islands to Charles Is!;;:,,) the course is K. X. E. | E. distant 14 miles;
between thetu lies Niger Sound, an inlet :d out two leagties deep, and having several small
islands before it ; to enter Niger Sound y.)U mav pass cither to the southward or north-
ward of these islands, and obtain anchorage oirthe northern side of the sound in 9 fathoins
water; the course in will be nearly N. bv W.
CAPE CHARLES HARROR.--From the norfli poiitt of Cape Charles Island info
Cape Charles Harbor, the course is N. W. y N. <lisfanf 4 miles; this harbor is formed
by Eyre and Little Caribou Islands, on the eastern sides, and by the main on the west ;
there is very good anchora<,e in fronj 17 to '22 fathoms water in it, on a muddy bottom,
and yon may sail in on either side of the ceiitre island ; but the best passage is between it
and Little Caribou;
From Cape Charles Island to the Raffle Islands the course is E. N. E. i N. and the
distance 4^ miles ; this course will carry you clear to the eastward of the rocks which lie
a large mile to the eastward of northernmost Rattle Island, which will appear high and
round at the top.
From the northernmost Rattle Island to the River Islands, your course will he N. W.
}r W. d' taut 2 leagues : here, to the westward of Pocklington, which is one of the River
Islands, you will find anchorage in 30 and 35 fathoms water, with a bottom of mud ; and
vessels may pass to the southward of these islands up the rivier St. Lewis,
,4#J
2 bllnt's AMr.iur.vN coast pilot.
CUTTKIv II.VRISOII.— KiiMii fli.« sMiiili jxiiiif i.r i'.Mklin,:;ton Island to Cnltrr Har-
bor, till' coiiiMe iH W. I 8. ilistaiit ihh' imiIc : in iliis harbor there is ({ood iiiichorngc (or
:iiui\\\ vt-sft'ls.
ST. LKWrS RIVKK.— Frniii the iinrflnTtmiost Uatfl.- Maiul. t<» thr nitraiirf of tJir
RiviT Si. f.i'uis. tlio cuiiriM' is N. N. W. ' W. tlistaiit 7 itiilrs; steer in N. \V. \ W. Ii r
!) miles, ilieii X. N. W. \ W, 8 niili's, to Woiniy ls!;in<l. When von are ihont I miles u|)
tliis river iVdni its en.iMiice, von v ill liml l'""i| imclmraxe, ami this will continue until yoii
arrive at Woody Island; hut ali.ive that tlie river lieeoiin'!) intritatti and has many shoals.
The north point oC the river is low I'or alionl '2 inile.i up, tlien hotli .sides I me ratiier
high and woody ; at the he:iil of the river a;.' dillerent kimls of very lino wood, liireh, (ir,
juniper, and s|iiii(e ; and the river is pjentiliilly stored u',:h salmon
NT. liK WlS'S ."^l )l '.N I). — ( >!ie mili- !o ilie 'mitliward of the north I'oiiit of St lieu is
J{iver lies ilie entrance to St. Lewis's Sound, wl'.icli runs up nearly N. W. about It miles,
havinj; very t;ood ;uiciiorar,'<» at its iipier part, Imt caro should lie taken, lest a shoal, which
.stret(dies oil' from a .sandy lieaeli on the larl)oard side, about '2 miles within the eiitratuT,
.slioidd ilo you anv injury ; yon \sill iI',i'r"l'ore lie sure to ^wt' this a i;ood berlh in passiny.
DKKIf il A iilioll:.— -Fr'im the m'.rtiieriunoNt ilatfle l.sland. to the eniranee of Deer
Harbor, the couise is .N, N. W. '; .\. tlistiuit •.',' jeni^iies. 'I'his is considered to be a very
i^ood harbor, secure (Voiu sdl winds, and in which vessels wid find anchoras:e in from 10
to IS fathoms; there is no danger in cnteriii'r. and tlie best anchorage is at the back of
J)ecr Island, called aNo Marnham h.Iaml. I'urt .M;iriiham is furnied by tin* cast end of
Maridiam Island, and lli" in.iin to the iinith ai I ea-hviin! of it.
C.\IM; ST. liKWIS. — From tlie northernmost Ihcile Island, to Cape St. Lewis, tlio
coiirso is N. ! W, distant ') miles; thi.s capo is hirih ra-zu'cd land; a (|uarfer of a mile
from tiie point, there are two liat rotd^y islets, and s-veral siiid<en rocks about the point of
the cape; ronnd tho jxiint is the entrance of a small cove rumiimf in S. W. 'i W. half a
miU% it is cummoidy called Diej) Water Creel:. beiiiLr very narrow, and having; iVom -JO to
40 fathoms within ii. About 1' mile N. X. W. ',' N. fiom the Ca|)e, is Fox Harbor,
whijt'h is smalliand lit for slrdlop«, but appears to be a convenient place for tin* (isheries.
PKTTV HAlMJOi:.— From the nortliern part (d" Cape St. [jcwis, to the lonth head
of Potty Harbor JJay, the coiirsci is about .\. M. i). 'I F. distant 1^ mile; the .slnnes are
bold r.nd lofty ; the entrance is a mile and a half \\\f\i\ and the nortli point bears from the
southern point N. K. by N. ; the bay runs up nt.arly N. W. by N. full 1 mile, havini; frotn
20 to 40 fatlioms wafer in it. At the bottom of th<- bay you will perceive Petty llariior;
the entrance i.s to tin; northward of a low jioint of laiitl, whicli shut.s the harbor in from
t^je sea, so as to render it very dii'licult to distin-niish its situation; it i.s not above ,'31) fa-
thoms broail at the entrance, \vit!i '> t'arlioms mid-eliamud. and .'? towards the sides; but
this narrow pa.ssa^rt; continues only a short way. lor liavini; passed tlu'on:;h it, the liarbor
opens wide, and vessels will have plenty of room, and may anchor in any part, in from 7
to 1:2 fathoms, lying land-locked.
From the nortli head of Petty Harlior r>ay to Point .Spear, the course is N. E. ^ N.
distant 2 j miles; and from Cntif; i-cwis to Cape Spear, in nearly the same direction, (')\
miles; between arc IJarreu I'lay ;uid Spear liarl)or ; JSarren l>ay is a litth; to the northward
of the northern part of Petty llarlsor J!ay, and afl'ords no shelter; but Spear Harbor,
which lies to the southward of Point Spear, is ii very excellent harbor; in coming from
the northward, and making Point Spear, you will open two islands, in the bottom of a
small bay ;' the best i)assage into Spear liurltor is between these islands ; keep the nor-
thern islands close on board, tlnne being 1 fatlioms along side of if, and after you get
about a, cable's length witliin the islands, .steer for the nnddle of the harl)or, ;md anchor
in 7 err 8 lathouis ; there is good rotmi to moor. Small vessels may go on either side of
the islands, the least water being two fat]u)ms : but you ought to ob.servc that, in coining
from the southward, you will only be able to distinguish one island, for the iMjrthernmost
islaiuls will be shiU in 'vi'li ihi' land so as lait to be se<'n until vou get within the heads.
SOPHIA, CHAKLOTTK, AN!) .M i;ClvLKNP.rK(;iH' HAKHUUS.— From Point
Si)ear to the entrance of these tinee harbors, the ooiuse is N. W. by N. tdjout 3 miles;
between are several small but hiuh islands, lying within half a mile of the shore; these
are coiruuonly called Spear Islands, ihey iire bold to, and there are channels between
them with iiO fathoms water. N. F. by F. [ F. from the southern head of the entrance to
the three harbors lie two small islands, close toi^ether, and therefore named the Double
Island ; these appear to be as high as they are broad ; about a cable's length to the east-
ward of these islands are two sunken rocks, over which the sea, in bad weather, constant-
ly breaks. Nearly in the middle of the eiurance also lie two other islands, being so close to
each other as to seem one island; these are steep to, and ships may pass on either side of
them in 12, 13, and 14 fathoms, anchoring witiiin them, in Queen's Road, in 16 fathoms;
but to the southward of these islands you will find the widest passage, and most room for
8hip,% to work out.
Sophia vffarftor,— The first and southernmost of these three harbors is Sophia Har*
bor, runmn.'
uwiv, round ;
ter. aiidtil oidl
/',„■/ Cliiirl]
the fttarboard
iiel over ; to
close to the si
;,iichor in any!
ji reef that lie|
\V. \ N. and
fathoms, but
than rJfalliMil
tilt- larlwvod -|
about :5(t fith.
hor, and abo\|
the harbor.
S'l\ FKANI
(iislanee is ne
to Cape St. I'
the westward
thougli small,
fisheries beiiK
one being to
ICing directly
inlet, called
as you enter,
you have 5 a
yoii should '
i-eef off it ; iiv.
two points (.
no nearer to i
nearer the sta
turn westerly,
to the cove at
(;,//'(! SI. r
a very narrow
N. N. Wcstei
Island's soiitl
two narrow ((
To the north
running in)rtl
have deep wa
this Hat will (
10, and 1'^ fa
Islanil, or vo
Scaling IViul
SEALIN*
best anchora
vou may saii
veral coves,
may anchor
trance to thi
Fox Island (
stretches ou
in stormy w
towards Ind
is about 2 v
thorns wate
FISHIN
Islaiul, the
number; tl
Fishing Sh
from 5 to 1
Island: th(
from Hare
»hro\i«h it,
\
BIXNT'8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
iiiicliorago lor
iifrMiiro of tlir
W. I W. Ur
>>it I miles „|,
i"ii<' until vdii
inaiiy nIki'mN.
H'coiiio ratlicr
"'. '»ii<li. tn,
"I' St LouJH
'loiit 3 inilps,
•^'•oiil, wliicji
I'll; •■iifnincp,
li in passini;.
nice (if 1),.,,^
to 1)0 a very
'■ in from lo
I tlic hack -.(■
' L-ast cml of
• Lewis, tilt!
IT •'<■ a mil,.
'Il'' IKlillt of
; W. liMlfa
'i from -Jfj to
ox Harbor,
'" fi!sh»'ri(',s.
"f'Utli head
' slioic.N are
ii'< froin tli(!
iiiviii<; from
'> ]larl)or;
T in from
)ove fjO f;,.
ides; Imt
K' liarbor
in from 7
^. R. ^ N.
L'cfion, (,\
norfhwarfi
'■ Harbor,
ling from
itom of a
> the nor-
r you ircf
anchor
t'r side of
cominif
lernmost
leads,
i»tn Point
3 miles ;
^ ; these
between
ranee to
Donble
he east-
)nstant-
ciose to
side of
thorns ;
»om for
a Ha^
bor, rttnnin'.' in S. S. W. about 1 ', mile, wifli frtim tn to ['> fitlHim<« wafer; it therj frnnflii
aw ly. round a low jioint to the eastward, and becuiiifH u mile bruud, it is theuce shuul wa-
ter, aufl fit only for small vesnel-*.
l'„rl Chiirldttr is the middle harbor, and fit i\)Y any Hhi|iH ; there is a low flat island oti
the starboai'd side of its enlratice, iVom N\hi('ii nins .i reef of ruelts one third of the chan-
nel over ; to ivoid this, kecji the soiitlii I'll Mide oti Imard, \ou will then have <> fathoiiiit
close to the sjioie, until yon >;ct a (|uarlcrol a mile u|» wiihm tin- harbor, >oii may then
iiiiehor in any part in from t'J lu 17 faihums, only ;^iviii^ the Hturbuuril ttidu u berth tu avuiti
a reef that lies on that side.
Mirkli tilhi.':li ll'irliiir is the northernmus' «d the tliree harbors, and turiiH in N. N.
W. J N. and N. W. by N. about two imbv. ; in llie jciwer part of this harbor there are -JO
lathonis, lint as yon ailvanee tiie water le -^'/iis, and in the iijiper put there are no more
than I'i fathdiiis for ships to nmor in. 't'o sail up to the head of the bay, you iiiiist keep
till! larlioard <ide nearest, in order to avoid the led;;e of rocks that lies on the starboard,
iiboiit :50 fithoius from the shore. 'riie-.i' rneks lie wiihlii the narrowest part of the har-
bor, and abnvi; the low point on I lie slarlniard aide ; >hu bcit aucluira^c m ut the head of
the harbor.
ST. b'RANCiS IIAIinOil.— From Point Sp'Vtr to Cape St. Franeis, the course ami
ilistanee is ne irly north, i> miles, and from tlie isLm.ls at the eiilranee tif the thrt.'e harbors
to (-'ape St. Francis N. K. ',' N. al):iiit .> mile-;; between them, and nearly half a mile to
the westward ot' the Cape, is St. Fraiicis ilarlmr. This is a siiu;^ and secure liarbor,
tli()n;;h small, and i':eiiera!ly filled wi.h ve-v.ejs, during llie li.shiiii; season, eimsiuerable
fisiieries bein^' rarried on in its vieinity. To enter this harlior ihere are two entrances,
one beins; to ilie northward, the other lo tlio south-westward of Pi'^eon Island, this island
l>in;; directly belore its entrance : the south-easteni cliannid leads to a small but narrow
inlet, called Itoiind Harbor; every wheri: clean i:jr!)und, with 10 lalhoms in tin; channel
as you enter, and the depth uraliiaily decri- isin^ as yon advatiee tow.irds its head, v.here
you have 5 and .'{ fatlioms. lu eiitcriiij; to ilio south-westward for St. Francis Harbor,
yon should beware of and !j;ive a berth to l!.t! western side of Piireon Islswul, for a rt^cky
reefotf it ; yive this a bertli, proceed on X. N. 10. \ S. and haviii;.; i^ot fairly between the
two points (, ' the harbor, yoii will pereelve on yo'ii sia:'!)oard siih; a small white rock; go
no nearer to i* than 7 I'alhoms, .sfer uo norili, and 'i ivin.; pa-ised mid-channel, or rather
nearer the starboard sluu'e, the rocks Jiliovo water, which you will see on each *ide of you,
turn westerly, and anchor in 1 or 5 taflioms. Small vessels qo to IVirueH's Bei>ch, or up
to tli(> cove at the northern CNtremity cil' tin; liarln-r.
C'/y<(! ,Sl. Fi-"nri.s is the easiern point of .\!i island, between which and Granby Island, i«
a very narrow pas'sai.^; for boais, wi;h 4 I'athoms \vator within it. From this- cape, in <i
N. N. Westerly direction, about i' of a mile, is Indiau Point, between which and .Jasper
island's south-eastern point, is an openiir^ leadin;; into Indian JVi:.dit aiul Shoal Tickle,
two narrow coves, the latter beiiii; .^lialluw, and with only 0 and Ik fatlioms water in it;
To the northward of Indian Point are Hare and Fox islands, having a narrow jiassagc
running noithwurd between them ; on crossing;; from Li(lia!i iJi^'ht to the channel, you will
have deep water, but when you enter the 'passage it will shallow to 5, 4, 3, and -^ fathoms ;
this (lat will continue for a (juarter of a mile, you then (k'-peii your water as;aiu to 5, 7,
10, ami 12 fathoms; vessels iVeipK-ntly amdior in this j)lace, iin the western side of Hare
Island, or rounding the uortln rn eud of Fo.\ Island, nui throu'^h Pearce's Tickle into
Sealins; IViiiht.
SKAIilNd niOHT is a very commodioti.s and convenient place for the fisheries; the
best anchorage is on the southern ])ait of the bay, to the westward of Jasper Island ; here
you may salcly ride in 8, 10, or 11 failioius, or further in witli less water. There are se-
veral coV(\'<, siitiated alon<f shine, to th^' uiu'hward ol' this anchurazc, wliere small vessels
may anchor; I'resh water can ea.-iily i'c obtaiiied, but wooil is scarce; the southern en-
trance to this ])laee is between Indian i'oiiit and Jasper Island, on one side, aiul Hare and
Fo.\ Island on the other ; the water is deep, and there is no daiurer, except a reef which
stretches out to the south-westward from (iiiil Island, over v.liich the sea breaks very hi},di
in stormy weather; it will, tiu'refore, to avoid tliis reef, be ahvays prudent to borro.v close
towards Indian Point, in (;itlier sailing in or out of Seaiin;^ ili^ht. Merchantman Htirbor
is about 2 miles W. ^ S. from St. Francis Ibhiiul; it is small, but has from 7 to lo fa-
thoms water.
FISHING SHIP HARnOR— From St. Francis Island, to the northernmost Fishing
Island, the course is N. N. F. 'l N. ilisiaut tlireu miles. Tite Fishing Islands are 3 in
number; the two northern ones are connected by a bi'ach, \vhich, with the main, forms
Fishing Ship Harbor, where vessels may riile land-locked, and secure from all winds, in
from 5 to 14 fathoms water, the entrance being to the southward of the southern Fishing
Island : the best passage will be between the two western islands, that entrance bearing;
from Hare Island N. by W. ; there is no danger in this channel, and vessels may sail right
through it^ m nearly a N. by W» direction, up to the very head of the harbor, and anchoi
BLUNT's A.MERICAN COAST PILOT.
,
N
ill 12 fiithoins, 1. ng good room for ships to moor ; there are two other passajres into this
pi.ice, one to tlie estward from the entrance of (iill)ert's River, the other to tiie northward
of all tl'c Fishinjr Islands ; the latter has 7 fathoms tliroughout, but is so narrow that you
will liave some dii'tieulty in dlscovi^rimi the openiof^.
GlLJJi'UlT'S RlVKll.—lJi'tween Fishin;,' Islands and Granby Island, is the northern
entrance to (filbert's River; tiie soutliern entrance is between Denbi^li Island and the
main, and this is much the wider of flie two ; tliere is also a channel between J)enbif;h an(!
(j'lanby Islands. The passa^je in has de.-p water every where; the course of tlie river is
nearly N. W. by N. for about (i miles, it then divides into two branclies, one runnins; N.
W. by N. 7 or 8 miles, the other S. \V. by W. about 6 miles: both these branches are
full of rocks, small islands, and shoals; but in the middle tlie anchorage is good all the
way up from -JO to lu fathoms; tliis river has also a passage out to sea, between Hare and
the Fishing Islands.
CAl^K ST. AlKJIIAEL.
— Six miles N. N. E. I N. from the northernmost Fishing Is-
'i S. from Point Spear, is Cape St. Michael, high and steep,
land, and 16 miles N. N. K
and easily known by a larire bay to the northward of it.
OCCASIONAL IIARIUJK.— Al)()ut -J! miles to the southward of Cape St. Michael, is
Occasional Harbor, easily known i)y the twins, two large rocks lying two-thirds of a mile
outside of the entrance ; they are very iilmt each other, and vessels may pass on either side
of them; the entrance to tlie harbor is between two liigh lands, and runs in W. by N. for 2
miles, then N. W. by N. ; both sides are steep to, without any dangers, and liaving good
anchorage in from 10 to 7 fathoms, about -2 miles from the entrance : the wind between the
high land ahvavs sets ri'jht into or out of the harbor.
ST. MICi-LiKL'S J}A\'.— Krom Cape St. Michael to Cape Blulf, the course is nearly
N. N. E. about 7- miles, and these two Capes form the points of entrance to the Ray of
St. Michael, which contains a vast luunber of islands, inlets, and rivers; the largest island
Is named Square Island, lyiie: at the mouth of the b;iy, and being 31- miles long and very
high; its N. E. point fori. is a lofty round hill, and makes, in coming from the southward,
like a separatt; , iand, being only joini-d by a narrow neck of land ; the best anchorage for
small vessels, is on tlie southern side of .St. ^lichael's Ray ; to go there you should keep
Cape St. Michael's shore on board, tlien run along the south side of the first island you
meet with, which is called Long Island, till you get nearly to its western end, there you
may anchor in from 12 to :.*() fathoms, land-locked, and can work out to sea again on either
side of the island. From Cape St. .Mieiiaei to the entrance of Scjuare Island Harbor, the
course is N. N. W. ^i\ miles; at the entrance lies a small island of moderate height, to the
westward of which is the best jiassage into the harbor, there being only 'i fathoms in ihat
to the eastward of it. About a l':ague N. N. W. from Stjuare Island Round Hill is th6
entrance to Deadman's Harbor, which is formed liy a number of little islands, and fit only
for vessels of small dimensions. There is a passage between these islands and Cape Blutf,
by which vessels may put out to sea.
Cape Bluft'is very hi^h land, rugged at top and steep toward the sea ; it may be seen 15
or 16 leagues; Cape Rlulf Harbor is a small place, and unlit for large vessels; to sail into
it you should keep the Cape on hoard until you reach a small island, which you should
pass to the ea.stward, and then anchor. The several bays and inlets in St. Michael's Ray
are well stored with wood.
From Cape Blulf to Rarren Island, tlie course is N. Eastward about 1 league; and from
the south point of Barren Island to Snug Harbor, N. \V. by W. H mile. Snug is a small
harbor, but in it is very 'zood anehoraue in iiti fathoms, and no danger to be apjirehended
either in sailing in or out of it. About one mile to the northward ol' Rarren, is Stony Is-
land, and within these islanils on tiie main, are Martin and Otter Rays; in the northern-
most is good anchorage and no invisible danger in entering ; wood and water are plentiful.
DUCIv HARBOR lies on the western side of Stony Island, a;,,! i.; a very convenient
place for small vessels; large ships may also anchor between the west point of Stony and
Double Islands, in from iiO lo 24 fathoms, sailing from thence to seaward on either side of
Stony Island in great safety.
HAWKE RA\^ — About 1 mile to the northward of Stony Island, lies Hawke Island,
within which is Hawke Ray, riuming in westerly 2 leagues; it then divides into two branch-
es, one going W. by S. G miles, the other N. W. by W. 6 miles: the shores of these are
well supplied with wood. After you get within Pigeon Island, the anchorage is good up
to the very head of both branches.
EAGLE COVE lies on the south side of Ilawkfe Island ; this place affords good riding
for large ships in 30 and 40 fathoms water, and also for smaller vessels in 7 and >i fathoms
at the upper end of the bay.
CAPLIN BAY. — On the main, within Hawke Island, arid rieafly 5 miles E. by N. from
Hawke Bay is Caplin Bay, having good anchorage and plenty of wood.
PATRIDGE BAY lies 4^ miles to the northward of Hawke Island; the anchorage is
good, but the bay is difficult of access, unless to those who are well acquainted with the
place, OD account of the numerous amall islands which encumber its entrance ; but the laud
hevcaboui mi
tiible hill "f '
high, while tl
SEAL ISl
cour.se is N.
miles; this ll
recojini/ed lil
SHALLCl
^V. i N. distl
fronted with]
course is N.
steer W. h
excepting a
t,i»y ; this roj
tie wood visil
From \VlJ
island isliigll
where the rif
SANDY
White Rod
fathoms wal
ships, but
nierous islai
tremelvdum
SPOTTl
spots on it^
therii part 1}
Rocky Bay
go betw een i
anchorage ii
Island, wlie
care to give
Eagle Islaii
Rocks you i
may run up
handy for hi
From Si)i
j-ock is abo\
it, and sevei
entrance to
western em
and it ajipe
SAND 1
tliern side
here the ai
saniiy groi
north piiir
length froi
TAliLl
Sand Hill
bay, abou
lies N. ^^
from, its e
from the
in 12 or 1
chor in 1
Harbor, 1
take care
between
The C
the oute;
CUR]
distingui
bor is be
close to
about 01
rpck off
blunt's
AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
HcYcal)ont may Ix; very easily known, for the southern point of the bay is a remarkable hlgl^
table hill ol'vciy banoii appeaninee, and all the laud betweeu it and St. Michael's Cape is
high, while tir.ii to the northward is low.
SEAi^ ISLAM IS.— From (Jape St. Michael to the soxuhernmost Seal Island, thei
course is N. K. I- N. distant ') leagues, and from thence to Round Hill Island, N. E. Ill
miles; this latter island is the easternmost land on this part of the coa.st, and may also be
recoirni/.e(l by a n'marUal)lo liiL'li rounri hill on the western part of it.
SHALLOW' U AV. — From Round Hill Island to Spotted Island, the course is N. N.
W. t; N. <hstaut 1 ', miles ; and I'rom Spotted Island, the land turns N. N. Westerly and is
fronted with numeror.s islands. From the southernmost Seal Island to White Rock, the
course is N. IS. K. ;V F-. about 5 miles; and from this rock to enter Shallow Bay, you must
steer W. I S. nearly 4 miles; there is very fair anchorage within this bay, and no danger,
excepting a small liU'k which lies on a cove on the larboard hand, about one-third over thei
bay ; this rock is visil)le at low water, and at other tinies the seu breaks over it ; there is lit-
tle wood visible on the shores of this bay.
From White Rock to Porcuj)ine Island, the course is N. N. W. distant 2 leagues; this
island is high, barren, and steep to ; vessels may pass on either side of it to Porcupine Bay,
where the ridiuL' is good, but little or no wood.
SANDY JiAV lies on the southern part of the Island of Ponds, and N. i W. from
White llock, from which it is distant 5 miles; there is good anchorage in this bay, with 10
fathoms water, on a bottom of sand, and would be a very convenient resort for the fishing
shii)s, but for the total absence of wood. ]5etween this Bay and Spotted Island, are ni^-
nierous islands and rucks, both above and under water, rendering this part of the coast ex-
tremely danuerons,
SPOTTED ISLAND is liigh barren land, and maybe recognized by several whitei
spots on its eastern side ; it is about .'} ujiles long and of nearly a similar breadth ; the nor-
thern part lying in latitude 53^ 30' N. To the westward, and within side this island, is
Rocky Bay ; to sail into this bay. you should run in to the northward of Spotted Island, and
go between either of the islands tliat lie before the entrance of the bay: but there is rib good
anchorage in it, tlie bottom being so r(>cky, until you get between Level Point and Eagle
Island, where you may ride in 8 or lU fathoms, the ground good and clean, only taking
care to give Level Point a free berth; the best anchorage will be on the western side of
Eagle Island in S or <) fathoms, nuid. In ])assing between Eagle Rocks and the Duck
Rocks you may borrow on either side to within two-thirds of the length of a cable, or you
may run uj) and anciior on the southern side of Narrow Island in Narrow Harbor, and bei
liaiidy for both wooding and watering.
From Spotted Island to Wolf Rock, the course is N. N. E. | N. about 18 miles; this
rock is above wafer, and lies 11 miles from the main ; there are some sunken rocks aboat
it, and several islands between it and the coast. About two miles to the northward of the-
entrance to Rocky Bay, is Indian Island; this is remarkable high land, particularly at the^
western end ; between the island and the main is tolerably good shelter for eraall Vessels,
and it appears to be a (it i)lace for a seal fishery.
SANi) HILL COVE. — This |)lace is so called from several sand hills lying on the sou-
thern side of its entrance ; it is situated 4 good leagues to the westward of Indian Island ;
here the anchorage is good al)oiU half a mile up from its entrance, in 4 or 3 fathoms water,
sandy ground. When you are sailing into this cove, you should take care to give the
north point a good berth, because of a ledge of rocks which stretch olf about a cable's
lengtli tiom the point, and run westward along shore, the length of two cables.
Table bay. — The southern head of this bay lies about 2 leagues N. by W. froni
Sand Hill t'ove, and tuay be known by a remarkable table hill on the north side of the
bay, about 6 miles within the entrance ; this hill may be seen from the Wolf Rock, which
lies N. W. i N. 7\ leagues from the eiUrance of the bay. In this bay, about 4 mile^
from its entrance, lies Ledge Island, so called from a ledge of rocks stretching westerly
from the island up the bay for 2 miles. On the southern side of this island is anchorage,
in 12 or 14 fathoms, in what is called South Harbor; or you can run further up, arid au-
thor in Tai)le Harbor. On the north side of the bay, just within Ledge IslariiJ, lies North
Harbor, having very good aucliorage in it. In sailing up to Table Harbor, you should
take care to keep the main land close on board, in order to avbid a rock that lies halfway
between the ledge that runs off Ledge Island and the main.
The GANNETS are a cluster of islands, lying from 7 to 11 miles off the main land ;
the outermost island bears from the Wolf Rock N. N. W. J W. distant 10 leagues.
CURLE W HARBOR lies nearly S. W. of the Gannet Islands, on the main, and may be
distinguished by a green round island, lying before its entrance ; the channel into the har-
bor is between this islarid and a low point to the southward, havihg a small rock above t^ater
close to the point ; there is po darig'er, in sailing into this place ; the best anchorage i^ill be
about one mile within its entrance ; here large ships may ride in safety, bringing th<$ Sitnall
rpck olf the entrance point, on with the northern point of Long Island ; they will then ridci
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
in 14 or 15 fathoms water, ^ood holding ground. Long Island lies about U mile N. by W.
from Green Island. Small vessels ru.i higher up the bay, and generally anchor in from 10
to 7 fathoms. On the southern side of the harbor is a shoal, lying at a small distance from
the shore; wood is scarce in this bay, but water piei iful.
ISTHMUS 1} AY. — This bay lies round the western point of Curlew Harbor, sailing from
whence you should endeavor to keep Great Island on l)oard, in order that you may go clear
of a shoal that stretches odthe point towards the island ; there is also another passage into
Isthmus Bay, l)etween the western point and a small bare rock of moderate height, that lies
otfthe south point of the Great Island ; this channel is narrow, and has a depth of three
fathoms within it ; both wood and wattsr may be obtained here.
HARE IIAKBUll. — One league to the westward is Hare Harbor, fit only for small craft,
the bottom being foul, except towards the head, where you may anchor in ;>.V fathoms wa-
ter, the ground tolerai)ly good. Hare Island, which lies bclbre the entrance to the harbor,
is high land; the eastern point of Huntingdon Island lies al)out "J miles to the northward
of Hare Island, and W. S. \V. 4' \V. about lo miles from Gamiet Island ; it is moderately
high, and in length, from east to west, 7 miles ; olf its eastern point are some small islets,
named Sadler's and Leveret's Islands, and a little to the northward of the latter is a rocky
flat ; these lie l* mile olf the cMri'tiiejJoint of Huntingdon Island. 'J'here is a safe passage
above a mile wide, along the southern side of Huntingdon Island: this leads into Hunting-
don Harbor, ojipositc which yon may ride safely iu from 5 to lo fathoms water ; further in
towards the island it shallows, but the best anchorage is behind Egg Island, in (> fathoms, near
that island ; here you will bo secure from all winds, and ride very convenient for both wood-
ing and watering, there being abundance of both on the island.
SANDWICH BAV, calle.l by the natives Netsbuitoke. — On the south-western side of
Huntingdon Island is Earl and Diver Islands, on either side of which is a ])assage into Sand-
wich Bay ; but the chaimel between Diver Island and Earl Island, called Diver's Tickle, is
very narrow, and has in some places not more than (> feet water, while that between Diver
and Huntingdon's Islands, is over a sandy llat of [), lv2, and 16 feet water, and consecpiently
not to be attempted by large vessels. To the eastward is Cartwriglu's Harbor, leading to
the Favorite's Tickle, and thence to Sandwich Bay; this has deeper water, and by keeping
the southern land well open of Earl's Island you will go through it until you reach the
Narrows, when the two points forming the Narrows must be brotight on with each other,
and this will lead between the eastern sn;all island and the main in 4, 7, and 'J fathoms; be-
Iween the Narrows is 18 fathoms. Sandwich Bay is a very tine liari)or, G or 8 miles broad,
And 6 leagues deep, with plenty of wood and water, and 4 rivers running into it, abounding with
salmon. There is very good riding in a cove on the eastern side of the bay, and also on the
northern side under a mountain ; from the shore, at the foot of the mountain, and live miles
to the westward, the soundings stretch gradually oil' the shore, from 5 to -Jj fatlioms, muddy
ground, and extend full three miles from the land. The passage into the bay, on the western
side of Huntingdon and Earl Islands is the widest and best channel, for that to the southward
We have just shown to be narrow, shallow and inconvenient: to enter to the northward of
Huntingdon Island you must beware of the flats which lie a little to the northward of Leveret's
Island ; there is deep water at the entrance, and you will see the Island of Plantation to the
northward, a little to westward of which is Henrietta's Island; between these two is Inde-
pendent Harbor, a snug retreat running in north, and having every convenience for the fish-
eries. Directly before this har!)or, and in the fairway of the channel to Sandwich, are the
Double Islands; in entering you will leave Wedge Island and Bellows Rock to the northward
and Gull Island to the southward, and pass on either side of the Double Islands ; your course
then will b^ N. W. by W. 41 miles ; and having got beyond the N. W. point of Huntingdon
Island, you will perceive Entrance Ishiiul lying midway between the point and the o;)posite
shore; the channel now bends to the S. Westward, and is bounded to the northward by the
North River Flats, and to thcsoiuhwardby Huntingdon Flats, the deep water passage being
about a mile broad : you may sail in on either side of Entrance Island ; proceed W. by S.
towards Main Tickle Point ; from olf this point a spit extends E. N. E. 1^ mile, contracting
the chaimel and making the navigable i)assage very narrow for large ships to enter : on the star-
hoard side arc the two Brenton Islands, situated in Table Hill Cove : when you get these open
of each other, a line passing directly between them, or when the North Brenton opens its own
length to the eastward of the southern one, you will clear the spit in 4i fathoms; when these
islands come on with each other, you will pass over the spit in 'J fathoms water: the cross
mark is Green and Leading Mark Island in one ; these lead on to the centre of the pit, and are
two islands situated on Huntingdon Flats; the leading mark to go through the Main Tickle
Passage is Leading Mark Island on Old Man's Head; this wiii carry you clear of the
shoals on both sides in from 6 to 14 fathoms, right into Sandwich Bay ; to sail out of the
bay bring the hollow part of Leading Mark Island in one with the gap of Old Man's Head,
until you are withift three cables' lengths of the former, then give the island a berth of equal
distance is passings and steer direct for Entrance Island.
FROM!
From 11
distance iiJ
miles; bctl
water, butf
RED 11
which lies]
somewhat
the bay, ail
harbor; tlJ
head of thi]
passage is
which at a
also not to
the length
has very g
is no pass;
eastward, 1
black rnck>
the high ro
you directl
BLACK
anchorage
from Ship
St. Modest
island, calk
recommcnc
WOLF'
Island, (list
form the e-,
towards tin
the cove b(
of this cov(
small vesse
FORT!
them is rat
tance; on
oms, but V
like a shall
coming fri
of Forteai
mer of the
Blanc Sal
sand, and
fathoms w
sometime:
leads to 1
berth in \i
LABR
nearly noi
tween it a
it rises u]
Lady's 15
Eastward
height, h
where sn
Harbor, 1
the numl
to avoid ;
•■iMMi
!!
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
lile N. by W.
•»!■ in (rum 10
listiuice lioiii
, sailing from
may go clear
Jjasisage into
S'lt. tiiat lies
ptli of three
r small craft,
latlionis wa-
t the harbor,
e northward
I moderately
small islets,
M- is a rocky
safe passage
to Huiiting-
■ ; further in
itlioms, near
both wood-
>fcrn side of
3 into Sand-
's Tickle, is
ween Diver
)nse(|uently
, leading to
by keeping
I reach the
^ach other,
hoiiis; be-
llies broad,
nding with
ilso on the
I live miles
IS, muddy
le western
outhward
thward of
Leveret's
ion to the
o is Inde-
tho lish-
1, are the
orthward
nr course
ntingdon
opposite
rd by the
ire being
^V. by S.
itracting
tliestar-
eseopen
s its own
en these
he cross
and are
Tickle
of the
of the
s Head,
jf equal.
FROM CHATEAUX BAY TO THE ESQUIMAUX ISLANDS, AT THE
ENTRANCE OF THE RIVER ST. LAWRENCE.
Variation alloived 2 Points.
From York Point, the southern entrance of Clint faux Bay, to Barrre Point, the course and
distance is W. by S. 5.V leagues; from Barge Point to Saddle Island is nearly west, 10
miles; between these is (Jreen Bay, a place where small vessels may anchor in 12 fathoms
water, but open to the S. Easterly winds.
RED BAi'. — This is an excellent harbor, and may always be known i)y Saddle Island,
which lies at its entrance ; thisisland rises up at each end, and sinks down in the middle,
somewhat similar to a saddle ; there is also a remarkable round hill on the western side of
the bay, and opposite to the west end of Saddle Island, which will tend to |)oint out the
liarbor; the land on the west side of tlu> bay is high, the eastern side rather low, and the
head of the bay is high and woody: in sailing into this place, there is little danger, the
passage is to the westward of Saddle Island, only taking care to give a berth to the rock,
which at a (piarter eb!) is above water, and lies oifthe western i)oint of the main land, and
also not to come too near to the inner part of Saddle Island, as a shoal stretches off it about
the length of a cable. The western bay lies in to the northward of the western point, and
has very good anchorage with westerly winds, but somewhat open to the eastward; there
is no passage e\ce])t for boats, to the eastward of Saddle Island ; vessels ctnning from the
eastward, must be careful to go clear of a small rock which lies about a mile from the two
black rocky islets, which are at the east end of Saildle Island, and near a mile off the shore:
the high round hill at the west side of the bay on with the saddle of Saddle Island, will lead
you directly upon the rock, and the sea commonly breaks over it.
BLACK BAY lies to the W. S. Westward, distant 10 miles from Saddle Islapd ; the
anchorage here is tolerably good, but too much ex])osed tc the S. E. winds. S. W. by S.
from Ship Head, which is the western point of entrance to Black Bay, distant 1 J mile, is
St. Modeste Island ; it is small and low, but v( -^els fretpiently riui in to aplace within the
island, called St. Modeste Bay, and anchor, but this, though occasionally used, cannot be
recomiriended.
WOLF'S COVE, OR L'ANCE DE LOUP.— S. AV. by W. fiom St. Modeste
Island, distant 4A miles, begin some remarkable red cliffs, which continue full 2 miles, and
form the eastern point of Wolf's Cove ; this is high tal)le land, terminating with steep cliffs
towards the sea. The entrance to Wolf's Cove is about 2 miles wide, the two points of
the cove bearing from each other S. W. and N. E. ; there is good anchorage at the head
of this cove in 12 fathoms water, and also on the western side, in Schooner's Cove, where
small vessels may lie safely in 7 fathoms, on a bottom of sand.
FORTE AU BAY lies 5 or 6 miles to the westward of Wolf's Cove, the shore beiwCen
them is rather low; Forteau Bay is about 3 miles i)road, and runs in nearly the same dis-
tance ; on the western side, near the head of the bay, is good riding, in from 10 to 16 fath-
oms, but exposed to the southward. Off the east point of the bay is a rock, which appears
like a shallop under sail; and on the western side of the bay is a fall of water, which, on
coming from the eastward will easily be percejitible. West 7 miles from the western point
of Forteau Bay is Island an Bois, and 2 miles westward of that is Creen Island; the for-
mer of these is of moderate height, and has a good passage round it; it lies in front of
Blanc Sablon Bay. where a vessel niay occasionally find anchorage: but the ground is loose
sand, and will not hold. The channel between Bois and (ireen Islands is good, and has H
fathoms water in it ; there is a cove on the eastern side of (Jreen Island, where a fishery '■■
sometimes carried on ; there is also a |)assag(! between Creen Island and the main, whic '
leads to Brador Bay and Harbor; but you should be careful to give tirand Point a good
berth in passinsr, as some sunken rocks lie directly off the point.
LABRADOR HARBOR.— From (4reen Island to Island of Ledges, the course is
nearly north, distant 5 miles; the Harbor of Brador may readily be known by the land be-
tween it and Point Belle's Amour: the point itself is low and green, but about a mile inland,
it rises up to high table land ; and further inland are three remarkable hills, called our
Lady's Bul)bies ; theso are round and may be seen all along the coast, lying to the N.
Eastward about v "agues distant from the Island of Ledges; this island is of moderate
height, having a great many islets and rocks about it; on its eastern side is Blubber Cove,
where small vessels may anchor in 2 and 2i fathoms. There are two passages into Brador
Harbor, but that to the northward of the Island of Ledges ii by no means safe, on account cf
the number of rocks scattered about it. To enter the eastern passage, you must take care
to avoid a small rock, which lies about S, W, by W. a quarter of a mile from the low point
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
:■
r
i ^
:
on the main, where the houses stand ; on this rocit the sea commonly Ineaks and shows
itself at a quarter ebb : on the eastern side, within this rocii, is Shallop Cove ; from the
point above the cove, a shoal stretches off about a cable's length from the shore, and con-
tinues nearly the same distance, quite to the head of the harltor.
ESQUIMAUX RIVER AND BAY.— From Point lictlr.'n Amnur h the oiitir Es(}ui-
maux Island, the course and distance is W. by S. 10 or 11 miles ; N. N. E. aboiu 4 miles
from which there is good anchorage, between two high islands, for small vessels ; and within
these lies the River Esquimaux. From hence to Dog Island, is a cliaiii or cluster of small
islands and rocks, the easternmost of whicli are commonly called the Es(|niinaux Islands;
the mjddle ones, the Old Fort Islands; and the western ones, the Dog Islands; within tliese,
and on the main land, are various good bays and ])lac('s of shell er; but the ( ntnuices to them
are so intricate, narrow, and dangerous, that no person, iinlcss well aei(u;(inte<l, should at-
tempt to navigate a vessel through them. These islands extend from I he outer Esquimau^
Island nearly 4 leagues, ;ind some of them are full 4 mill's from I he land.
LITTLE BAV.—W.N.AV. about;-, miles from the Do- Islands, i,-. Little Hay. in which
small vessels inay find very good anchorage; nearly a mile to the westwanl (*!' Ijittle Bay, is
the Bay D'Omar; this bay runs up N. E. by N. nearly .'i miles, the land on both sides being
yery high, \,\\\. the western shore is the highest ; its width is -.ibcut J rabies" lengths, but olf
the cqves it is broader; outside of the eastern point of the l)ay, are l small islets, a cable's
length from land. This bay has good anchorage, the best place being -J miles within the
entrance, o})posite a woody cove on the west side, w here you will lie seciu'e in 14 and 16
fathqms water, witli abundance of wood and water. ( )n the west side also, a mile within the
entratjce, is a remarkable green cove, but this becomes shoal a short di>;ance from the shore.
From the entrance of the Hay D'Omar to i'owl |s|;uiil, tliecoiirsi! and disiance is W. S. \V.
i S. 2 miles. This is a remarkable round island, of moder.ue lieiulu, and lies a mile from
the main land; about it, and between l^owl Island and Sheealica, are a gieat number of
islets and rocks, the coast being therel)y rendei-ed dangeious to navigate unless you have a
fresh of wind; the'rocks will then show themselves by tlie sea breaking over them.
From Bou'l Islnml to Sluciit/ca, the coiu'se is W. by .\. alioul two h'a::ues; and 3 miles
p. N. E. from Shecatic.i Island is the Bay of Petit Peiie, raniiina in N. N. E. about 5
miles; but this place is scarcely fit for vessels to go into, because the water is too deep, the
entrance too narrow, the ground bad, and the whole bav open to the southerly winds.
MISTANOGUE BAY lies abo.it -2 miles to the wVsluard of Petit Peiie; there is a
good channel between the Island Shecatiea and the main, and niaiiy seals are freijuently
caught there. Before the entrance to the Bay of Mistanogue, lies an. island of the same
uanie ; here, between the island and the river, flie anchorage i* good, with froiu 15 to 20
fathoms water ; the ground holds well, and there is room enough to moor. To go into this
■road, you should pass round the western end of the island, which is bold to, or else round
its eastern end, and between it and Sljecatica; but this latter passage is fit only for small
Vessels. In the Bay of Mistanogue the anchorage is good up to the very head, the channel
'ip both long and narrow; the islaiul and the main land, at the entrance, has a barren aj)-
jiearance, and is high, but both wood and water may be obtained in the bay.
SHECATICA BAY runs close in to the westward of Mi uaiiogue Island, and extends
many miles up the country, its cotirse bending to the northwanl, and ha\ in'; various branch-
es and turnings, with numerous islands, capable of i^ivinu shelierto vessels of all descrij)-
tions; but these are little frecjueiued, and consequently not well known, besides the passages
^re too narrow for strantrers to attempt the navigation of.
SHAG ISLAND AND ROCKS.— Nearly S. W. by W. distant above 2 leagues from
the Island of Mistanogue, is the iShag Island and Rocks; the island is small, high, and has a
round peaked hill in the middle ; to the eastward ol'it are a iuinii)er of rocks above water,
the outermost lying E. S. E i E. one mile and one-third froi.i the island.
' CUMBEI-LLAND IIARBOll lies N. N. E. ,^ N. about three miles from the outer Shag
Rocks; and may readily be distinguished by a remarkable hiuh hill on tlie main land, ap-
pearing like a castle at its sununit. being a steep elill', looking like walls ; this hill lies N. by
"^V. nearly '.}!j leagues from the entrance to the harbor. 'J'he outer islands which form the
harbor, are called the Duke and Cumberland Islands ; these are modiuately high, the east-
ern one making in two round hills. To enter this harbor there is tio danger but what appears
anove water, except one small rock, which lies south aiiont half a mile from the ■•.■(■stern
head ; the entr.mce to the harbor is a quarter of a mile wide, and the inlet half a mile long;
from the eastern head you must steer for the inner point on the western side, and after you
reach that ppint, haul over to the eastward, and anchor in from 20 to 7 fathoms, excellent
ground, and rortm enough foe any ships ; this is by far the most cmnmodious and best
harbor on the coast; and also the easiest of access ; fresh wr-ier is plentiful, but for wood
you must go to Shecatiea Biiy.
SANDY ISLAND BAY.— N. W. by N. about 2\ miles from Shag Island, is the bay
and harbor of Sandy Island ; to sail into this, you should nass to the eastward of the Murr
JB^ptks, keeping the starboafd point of tjte bay "on board, you will then perceive a small rqcl^
nbove water to
oil eithe side
dange- ; here
ground and sa
POUT A>
Augustine, is
derately high,
to be distingui
a-third of ami
but even at tii
■a safe jjassage
and Rouiul Is
with plenty ol
gustine's Islai
outermost of V
ter of a mile,
of these are v
above water,
Augustine ; y(
will bear N.N
or von may st
THE RIV
to the N. N.
only lit for bo;
up, it divides
wood and wati
From St. A
distance is W
which are ma
Bay, cannot i
other, that alt 1
entrances, nor
EAC.LK 1
Ila Ha Bay, a
vessels in seen
to find out thi
whence you si
mile from the
the eastward,
if you intend
E. 2:^ miles, i
able high isla
harbor, when
sage to this
small vessels,
This part c
weather, onai
latter being v
fore, always 1
IIAHAB
i.slandsat itsr
Seal Point ai
safe passage,
7 miles, and 1
eastward, are
casionally an
but on the wi
trance on th
small, but sii
this harbor i
LITTLK
is small, am
island ; but i
southward c
the Woody
chor in the
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
9
above wafer to tlie N. N. Westward ; tliis lies ofl" tlin entnmce of the harbor ; you may pass
1)11 eitlii; ■ side of tliis rork, iiihI tlitii steer in N. N. K. 7' N. for the harhor; there is no other
dange' ; liere you will Imve room enonjj;h to uioor in 5 and b fathoms water, with good
ground and safe ridin;; ; tliere is no wood here, but water in plenty. \
POUT AND KIVKli ST. AU(UISTINE.—Tiie entrance to the Port and River St.
Augustine, is between Shag Island .:.id St. Augustine Square; the West Island, which is mo-
derately high, the wiistern part being the highest, and (piite low in the middle, but not easily
to be distinguished at a distance, on acrount of tlie islands within it being. much higher;
a-tliird of a mile to tlie eastward of this is the I'ast Island, somewhat larger, not quite so high,
but even at tiie summit ; iietw ecu these islands, after passing the Chain and Square Islands, is
a safe |)assage f(»r small vessels to enter this port; and they can anchor between the West
and Round Islands ; or run to the northward, past Round Island, and stop in 6 or 7 fathoms,
with plenty of room to moor S. W. by W. aliout half a league from west part of St, Au-
gustine's Island, is a string of small islands, commonly called St. Augustine's Chain, the
outermost of which is a rematkable smooth round rock, and to the westward ofthis one quar-
ter of a mile, are several rocks under water, over which the sea is constantly breaking, some
of these are visible at one-third ebb : half a mile W. S. W. from these is a high black rock
above water, and between these two is the best passage for large vessels into the Port of St.
Augustine ; you should steer from tliir, black rock, towards a remarkable low point, which
will bear N. N. E. jj N. until you open the port ; then haul in and anchor as before directed ;
or voii may steer up the passage between this point and Round Island, and anchor.
THE RIVER ST. ATJtiUSTINE is4i leagues from the entrance of the port, and lies
to the N. N. W. having several islands lying in the passage ; but the river is shallow, and
only (it for boats to enter; there is a sandy bar across, which dries at low water. Two miles
vip, it divides into two branches, both running to the N. N. Westward for 14 or 15 leagues;
wood and water arc |)lrntiful.
From St. Augustine's (Miain to the bluff heail of Great Mecatina Island, the course and
distance is W. S. W. 8 leagues and one mil'" : the coast is lined with islands, within and about
which are many harbors ; the main land in sailing along this"part, from Shecatica to Ha Ha
Bay, cannot lie seen, and the adjacent islands are so high, so numerous, and so near each
other, that although there are navigable passages between them, yet you cannot discover their
entrances, nor perceive them to be islands, until you get near and entangled among them.
EAdLE HARIU)ll. — This lies at the western end of Long Island, to the eastward of
Ila Ha Bay, and is formed by a elusterof islands, being capable of holding a great number of
vessels in security ; in it are from "20 to IC falhoms water, the ground holding wel' In order
to find out this anchorage, it will be advisable to make for the Great Island of Mecatina, from
whence you should shape your course for the Fox Islands, which lie S. S. E. ^ S. one large
mile from the westernmost entrance of the harbor; it may also be known by a deep bay to
the eastward, without any islands in it, while to the westward there are a great many. But
if you intend sailing in to the eastward, you should steer from the Fox Islands N. N. £. ^'
E. 2^ miles, into the bay, when you will obs rve to the N. N. Westward of you, a remarlt-
able high island, round which, to the northward, is a safe passage of three fathoms into the
harbor, where you will ride in safety, well sheltered from all winds. In the western pas-
sage to this harbor, there are 21 fathoms ; this is, however, a narrow channel, fit only for
small vessels, and running in between many small islands.
This part of the coast is very dangerous for any vessels to fall in with, in dark and foggy
weather, on account of the infinite nuinlier of small low islets and rocks about it, ma;jy of the
latter being under water, and to avoid which no practical mark can be given; it will, there-
fore, always be advisable and prudent to keep off the coast to a considerable distance.
IIA II.V BAY lies on the main, to the westward of Eagle Harbor, and has several small
islands at its entrance, forming separate entrances; thebestof these is that which lies between
Seal Point and Round Island, leaving all the islands on the starboard side ; this is a wide and
.safe passage, having no danger but what is visii)le. Ha Ha Bay runs in to the northward about
7 miles, and has many islands at its head, on the staibward side ; within these islands, to the
eastward, are numerous anchorages, with from 9 to -20 fathoms water ; vessels may also oc-
casionally anchor all along the eastern side of the bay in li and 14 fathoms, muddy bottom,
but on the western side the water is too deep. N. N. W. ^ N. about two miles from the en-
trance on the west side, is a high bluff head; round this head N. W. by W. half a mile, is a
small, but safe harbor for small vessels, in which you will have 12 fathoms, good ground ;
this harbor is formed by an island, on either side of which there is a narrow but safe passage.
LITTLE FISH HARBOR is to the southward of Ha Ha Bay, and runs in westerly"; it
is small, and formed by an island covered with wood; you may sail in on either side of the
island ; but the northern passage is considered to be the better of the two ; in the bav to the
southward of the island, is a ledge of rocks, partly visible at all times. S. E. by t. from
the Woody Island lies a rock, on which are only two fathoms at low water. You may an-
chor in the harbor at the back of this island in 7 or 8 fathoms, and have plenty of room to
2
»»»wa:w~- -.--^iri/m^-f,
10
DLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
i
r
moor. Off the northern point of the entmnce to this hiirbor, ciillecl Seiil Point, are two
little islands, and a small sandy cove, where a seal fishery is carried on.
Between Fish Harbor and Iln Ha Hay there is n very reinarl<al)le rouiiil hii;li liill, making
in a peak, which may serve as a landmark to jjoint nut eitlier of these |)iates ot aneliorage.
GREAT MECATINA ISLAND lies .3 miles olf the main land, it is ;{] miles long, and
about 3 miles broad, beinc; the most rcniarkal)le land at this part of the coast ; it rises nji in
the middle, which is much higher than either of the ends; its E. N. E. pf)iiit makes like
a bluff head, and round this head to the northward, within a cluster of small islands, there
is a cove running in about one mile and a half; in this cove vessels can safely anchor, in
from 14 to 20 ftthoms, pood ground, and may obtain both wood and water.
MECATINA HARBOR.— This harbor is formed behind iMecatina Isliuid on the main;
it is safe but small, yet will admit vessels of burthen, there bein<; not less than :$ fathoms at
low water, in either passage to it; but they must moor head anti stern, there being no room
to moor otherwise. To sail in through the western passage there is no danger, but to sail
in through the eastern channel you must observe the following directions. From thelnastern
point of Mecatina Island steer North towards the main land, keep that close on board until
you get the we , tern point of the island on with the point of Dead (Jove ; this is a small cove
on the main, which lies open to the eastward ; the land which forms it is very low, with
some brushwood upon it ; then sail on in that direction until you get above a stony point,
which is to the north side of the said cove ; or until you bring the north point of (iuil
Island, which is a small island lying E. by N. distant one mile from Mecatina Island, on
with the E. N. E. point of Mecatina Island, you will then be within a spit of rocks which
stretches off the island, and must haul over for Mecatina island, in order to avoid a ledge
which runs off from the point of Dead Cove ; -nd when you bring the western passage open,
you may anchor in 6 or 7 fathoms water. Vessels coming from the eastward, and bound
for the Harbor of Mecatina, in passing to the northward of Gull Island, should be careful
either to keep Gull Island or the main land close on board, m order to avoid a sunken rock
that lies near halfway between Gull Island and the main, on one part of which there is
not above 3 feet water. The highest part of the land between Grand Point and Ha Ha
Bay is directly over the Harbor of Me* tina.
THE GRAND POINT OF MECA TINA is the extremity of a promontory, which runs
out from the main land, it is low at the point, but rises inland, slopin;' gradually up until it
becomes of considerable height ; it may easily be recognized by the adjact;nt islands and
rocks which ar^ about it; the nearest is a small low rock, not far from the point ; two of
Aese islands^re much large/, and risenmch higher than the others ; and the outernuist are
small, low, rocky islands, lying 11 miles off the point, S. E. by E. five miles and a half from
the Grand Point are theiVIurr Islands and Rocks, and these are the most southerly islands
on all the coast. The n(»rthernmost Murr Island bears from the otlij^r north a little westerly,
distant one mile; they are remar!.able objects, being two barren rocks, of moderate height
and steep all round. About half a mile E. S. E. from the southern Murr Island, are the
two Murr Rocks, both appearing above water, and E. ^ S. from the same island lies a ledge
of rocks, under water, on which the sea generally breaks.
BAY DE PORTAGE.— -N. W. by N. from the Murr Islands, distant two leagues, is the
Bay de Portage, the land over which makes in a valley, each side being high ; at its entrance
lies an island of moderate height, which forms the harbor ; you may enter on either side of
this island, but the eastern passage is fit only for small vessels, there being only 2 fathoms,
in some parts of it, at low water. The western channel is sufficiently large and safe for any
vessel to turn, there being from 6 to 8 fathoms in it ; but they must be careful to avoid two
sunken rocks, on which are only 2^ fathoms at low water. The northernmost of these lies
from Mutton Island S. by W. distant one mile and a half; the southernmost rock bears from
the Seal Rocks N. E. f N. distant half a mile; they are both bold to, and vessels may
borrow within a cable's length of Mutton Island or the Seal Rocks.
Courses and Distances from Island to Island along the Coast, betwem
Grand Point and Shecatica, which courses will carry you outside of all the
other Islands and Rocks.
From Grand Point of Mecatina to the outer rocks the course and distance are S.
the outer rocks to the Murr Rocks .... - - E.
Murr Rocks to Flat Island E.
Flat Island to Treble Hill Island N.
Treble Hill Island to Fox Islands, a cluster of islands lying S. \ E,
from Eagle Harbor .-.-...-N.
Fox Islands to St. Augustine'* Chain E.
St. Aujfustine's Chain to Shag Island .,...£
St. Augustine's Chain to Shag Rocks E
Shag Rocks to the east end of Shecatina Island • - - E.
S. E. J E. ei miles.
S. E. i S. 2i do.
N. E i E. 5 do.
E. by iV. 5i do.
N. E. J E,
bvN.
9 do.
15 do.
N. E. )t N. 7i do.
by N. 9 do.
N. E. i E. 9 do.
Cout
From the on
out
Gi.
G,
Lii
Ln
Dii
R.:
Ro
La
La
Go
The Gr<
the coast,
other place
most remat
2 points we
From the R(i
To the M
nevieve, wl
survey vet
S. W. 15 h
lie 7 miles
given to it ;
distant 7 oi
may steer <
p;-ssed the
./hit tie, fl
may steer ^
main land ;
Genevieve
Remark
outer ones
high, covei
places whe
TlDKS.-
uncertain,
settled, it ^
at half afte
At Red
eleven ; an
neaps 4 fee
uluint's ame ican coast pilot.
u
^onit, are two
Coursrs and Disfanres along shore, j)assinfr tvithin the Great Mecatina Island.
From the outer rocks to the Biy de Portiise N. NW. JN. 4
do, (iiiicr point of Mi'catina Island - - - N. J E. 4
ontrr point i>t'M('calmi» Island to Gull Island - - - E, bv N. 1
Gull lalund to Green Island, at the entrance of Red Bay - - N. E. i E. 3
This course will carry you doar of the Shag Rock,
mi fur ns vou ii.tjis oiitbide of Utill IsUiiil.
Gull Island toLa Bouie Rock, off the N. N, W. end of Mecaliim E. N. E. j N. 4
La BouleRork to Giccn Island W, by N. IJ
La Houle Rock to Duck Island N. | W. 3
Duck Island to Roind Island, Ha Ha Bay - - - - N. E. i N. H
Round Island into Liillu Fish Harbor W. i S. ij
Round Island into Ilu Ila Bay N, E. i E. 1^
This will leave nit th« Islands to the surhoard.
La Boule Rock to Loon Islands N. N.E. ^E. 3
La B )ul<' Rock to Goose Island E. N. E. 6^
Goose Island to Fox Island N. E, by E. 6
milei.
da
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
The Great Island of Mecatina being the most remarkable point of land about this part of
the coast, from whence vessels frecjnently take their departure, and shape their courses to
other places, the followins; fable may be useful in showinu; the bearings and distances of the
most remarkable points, rocks, headlands and harbors from it, allowing the variation to be
2 points westerly, which is suHTiciently near the truth for any purpose of navigation.
From the Round Head of Mecatina to Mecatina Island
to the outer rocks off the Islands of En-
trance .....
■ to Murr Islands ....
■ to Flat Island . . . ,
• to Loon Islands ....
• to Round Island Ha Ha Bay -
to Trcl)l(! Hill Islands -
■ to Double Hill Islands -
• to Ooose Islands ...
■ to Fox Islands ....
to St. Aui^ustine's Chain
• to Sha;/ Island - - ^
• to Sheeatica ....
W. by R. i N. 3 J milea.
s. w. \ s.
S. S.W.J s.
S. by E,
N h E.
5 do.
5 nearly.
5 miles.
4 do.
N. iV.W. iN.6i do.
E. f S. 34 do.
si do.
h\ do.
11 do.
35. do.
E. fS,
N. N. E
N.cE. I N.
N. E. \ E,
E.N.a
E.
31} do.
41 do.
To the westward of the Grand Point of Mecatina, until you reach the Island of St. Ge-
nevieve, which is the easternmost of the Esquimaux Islands, there appears to have been no
survey yet made cf the coast ; the land from the Grand Point of Mecatina runs abont W.
.S. W. 15 leagues to Cape Whittle, and is skirted by many islands and rocks, some of which
lie 7 miles offshore ; therefore, in coasting along, the land must always have a wide biftrth
given to it; vessels entering the Strait of Belle Isle, and being abreast of Chatoaux Point,
distant 7 or 8 miles, or having brought the Red Cliffs to bear west, distant 5 or 6 miles,
may steer a W. S. W. JL \V. course, and they will go clear of all dangers; when having
P"ssed the Southmaker's ledge ; which is the outermost reef, distant 7 miles from Cape
./hittle, and brought that cape to bear N. by W. or North, distant 8 or more miles, they
may steer W. by NTpast Wolf Island, until they sec Mount Joli, a high mountain on the
main land ; bring that to bear N. W. by N. and a N. W. 1 W. course will take them to St.
Genevieve Island.
Rkmarks. — All the islands along the coast of Labrador have a barren appearance, the
outer ones being, for the most part, small low rocky islets, and the inner ones large and
high, covered with a sort of green moss. There is no wood to be obtained, except at those
places where we have menfioi'cd.
TioKS. — The course and flowing of the tides along the whole coast are irregular and
uncertain, dejjending much upon the prevailing winds ; and when the weather has been
settled, it was high water at Sheeatica, full and chv;nge, about 11 o'clock, and at Mecatina
at half after two. The rise of the tides being abou' 7 feet.
At Red Hay, the tide flows full and change at half-past nine o'clock ; at Forteau Bay at
eleven ; and at Labrador at half after 11 ; and at all these places, spring tides rise 7 feet,
neaps 4 feet.
t
i. i
'■
■
i
11
«E]¥ERAL DESCRIPTIOIV OF TnH I8LAI\D ArVD
♦HAWKS OF IVEWFOUI^DLAIVD.
THE ISLAND OF NtWFOUNDLAND is situated on the eastern side, and directly
in front of the Gulf and River St. Lawrence, its norlhern part l)ein<; separated from the eoai»i
of Labrador by the Straits of Belle Isle ; and its south-western extremity from Hreton Island
and Nova Scotia, by the great entran(!e into the (iulf. Its lenjfth from Cape Kaee to (Jape
Norman, is nearly five dejjrees and a half, and its breadth, from Ca|)e S|)ear to Cape An^sju-
ilie, about 6 degrees 13 miles ; being verj narrow at tl c northward, but becoming wide as
you approach southerly ; its extremes lie between the latitudes of 4fi^ 40' and 61° 40', and
the longitudes of 52° 25' and 59' 23' west. The whole circuit of the island is indemed with
inlets and bays, many of which are extensive, commodions and well sheltered, where vessels
ride in perfect security ; into these bays and harbors ntimerous rivulets continually run,
which, besides the fine purity of their water, alVord abundance of trout and other fish. —
Most of the harbors have complete anchorages, with clear and good channels into them,
80 that they can be navigated at all times without the assistance of a pilot; they are fre-
quently situated so near to one another, that in many jdaces they form a succession of har-
bors, but they are not all inhabited; the towns and villages are in general to be found in the
larger branches only, where the situation and soil are most convenient ; the inhabitants
therefore are not numerous, and the settlements but small.
The Great Bank of Newfoundland is to the eastward of the island, and extends from
about the latitude of 42° North to 50° or upwards, but recent observations seem to prove
that its southern extent does not exceed the parallel of 42° 50' N. ; its form, like those of the
other banl(8, is irregular and not easily ascertained or defined ; but about the latitude of 45°,
its breadth, including the Jaquet and Whale Banks, is nearly 4 degrees; to the northward
and southward it narrows almost to a point, and seems insensibly to drop into fathomless
water. The Jaquet and Whale Banks may be fairly considered parts of the (ireat Bank,
being on\y divided from it by channels of somewhat deeper water. The Jaquet lies to the
eastward, and has 55 fathoms upon it; its edge is very steep ; between it and the edge of
the Great Bank are 112, 120, and 160 fathoms. The mariner, when entering u])on the
Gre^t Bank, will change his soundings from 60 to 30, 37, 44, 45, and 60 fathoms ; and as he
advances towards the Whale Banks, he will liave 55 and 60 fathoms; between the (ireat
Bank and the Whale Bank are 72, 75, and 80 fathoms, and upon the Whale Bank 50, 45,
66, and 60 fathoms, being over which, you again drop into 100 and 200 fathoms, no ground.
On the western side of the Great Bank, and to the southward of the Island of Newfound-
land and Nova Scotia, a chain of banks extends almost t» o degrees from the land ; these are
called Green Bank, Banquereau, Sable Island Bank, &:c.; all tljese have soundings over
them of various depths, from 20 to 70 fathoms, admirably situated, in dark weather, to warn
the mariner of his ap5roach towards the land.
The Outer or False Bank, called also the Flemish Cap. This is a patch of rising ground
lying two degrees to the eastward of the edge of the Great Bank, in latitude 46° 50', and
longitude 45° ; its length is supposed to be about 90 miles, and breadth 50 miles ; on it are
from 100 to 158 fathoms; between it and the eastern edge of the Great Bank is much deeper
water, the bottom being very fine sand and ooze, which will hardly stick to the lead ; as you
enter upon the Great Bank you will have fine whitish sand, speckled black. Should you
make the bank in this latitude, between 46° and 47°, you must be very careful to avoid beiiig
drifted upon the Cape Race or Virgin Rocks. These banks are frequently enveloped in most
horrid fogs, which, from the middle of spring to December, have been know n to last 8 and
10 days successively : at such times they are often so thick that you will not be able to see
any object at ten fathoms distance; a continual drizzling rain is dropning from your sail?
and rigging, a general calm prevails, and sometimes attended with a considerable swell of
the sea, so that you are constantly in fear of running foul of some vessel, or being drifted
by the currents upon some danger, which, from a total inability of discovering, you will
have great diflficulty to avoid. Added to this, the currents which surround the Island of
Newfoundland are frequently so violent and so irregular, sometimes driving towards the
shores, and sometimes toward the sea, that the greatest caution will always be found neces-
sary, while the known current coming from the northern regions, sweeps along the shores
of Labrador, and in the spring detaches immense icebergs, which float to the southward,
and become exceedingly dangerous, especially in foggy weather. Some of these masses
will frequently be grounded in 40 and 50 fathoms water, and others will be met with further
* E. & G, W, Blunt are now publishing a CHART of the Bank and Coast of Newfoundland,
Gut of Canso, and Gulf of St. Lawrence, from tho Admiralty Surveys.
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
13
LrVD
111 (lirrctly
1 (he co;\i»t
>lori Ivlaiiil
(•»! to (Jiipe
iipe Anjju-
im wide as
1° 40', find
ented with
ere vessels
iiinlly run,
her (isli- —
into tiiem,
?y are (re-
ion of Iiar-
)und in the
inhabitants
tends frotn
m to prove
liose oCthe
ide of 4o°,
northward
fathomless
reat l?ank,
t lies to tlip
le edge of
upon the
; and as he
the (ireat
link 50, 46,
o ground.
ewfound-
|; these are
(lings over
|(;r, io warn
tg ground
I'- 50', and
on it are
ich deeper
[id ; as you
[lould you
k'oid being
sd in most
last 8 and
Ible to see
>our sails!
swell of
kig drifted
you will
Island of
kvards the
Qid neces-
lie shores
luthward,
le masses
111 further
out to Hcawanl, at the distance of 125 or 130 leagites from the land ; fortunately these for-
niidalile oljjectH may generally be discovered, even in durk weather, by a white and bright
a|)pearanre on the sky above iliem, and also by the roar of the waters breaking against them ;
they also may be apprehended by the intense eoldness they dilVuse to a great distance around
them; they continue and are usually met with as late as June, .Inly and August. Your ap-
proach towards the banks may be known by the numerous sea fowls which will attend yoji,
as roches, maliiuauks and divers; these latter are seldom found more than ,'i() leagues oU'
the banks, but maliniauks and others are occasiouully seen all across the Atlantic, but in the
vicinity of the banks they become nunu-rous.
THE V11{{JIN or CAPK RACK KOCKS are extremely d;mgerous; they extend in an
irregular chain or cluster S. W. by VV. and N. E. by E. HOO yards; the breadth varying from
!>00 to 300 yards; the least water on a white rock is 4,} fathoms, with from 5 to fii fathom.%
about one hundred yards all around it — the bottcnu distinctly risible. Towards the extremi-
ties of the shoal, the soundings are from 7 to 9 fiithonus on detached rocks, with deep water
between them, the current setting a mile an hour to the \V. S. W. with n confused cross
swell to the S. E. — South, S. W. — West, and W. N. W. of the shoal, the water deepens
gradually to ."JO fathoms, half a mile distant, to the N. \V. North, vmd N. E. one third of a
nule, and to E. N. E. — East, and E. S. E. a mile.
The bank upon which the slioal is situated, extends E. by N. and W. by S. 4 miles and
a quarter; and 2^' miles across its broade»t part, with regular sotmdings of iVoiu 2B to 30 fa-
thoms, until they suddenly deepen on its outer edge to .TJ and 43 fathoms.
The bottom is seen, and large patches of sea-weed on the sand around them. Over them
the sea breaks so violent, as to make it unsafe to pass m a gale. Lat. 4(»" 26' 15"3 N. Long.
50° 5C' 35" W.
EAST COAST OF ]\EWFOlJi^DLAWD,
FROM CAPE* RACE TO ST. JOHN'S HARBOR.
Variation 2 Points West.
CAPE RACE, is the S. E. point of Newfoundland, and lies in 46° 39' 44" Nbrth lati-
tude, and in 52° 59' longitude West from Creenwich; it is table land, moderately high;
near it is a black rock, and several smaller ones around it.
E. S. E. from Cape Race is a lishing bank, over which are from 17 to 25 fathoms w.ler;
it is named the New Bank, and is about 5 miles long and 2 miles broad.
From Cape Race to Cape Ballard the course is N. E. by E. distance 8| miles. About
one mile southward of Cape Ballard is Chain Cove Head, a])pearing high and dark ; be-
tween the points is a Cove, and to the westward of Chain Cove Head is Chain Cove, having;
a black rock above water lying before it.
RENOWPJS. — About three quarters of a league N. E. from Cape Ballard lie some small-
rocks, oft' Small Point, and3| miles beyond Small Point are the Renowes Rocks ; they are-
moderately high and bold toi^ being distant from the land about one mile; 1| mile' to the
northward of these lies Renowes Island, situated near the main land ; and about one mile to
the southward of the entrance to Renowes Harbor, which is but an indift'erent place of
shelter, with a depth cf water of 15 feet ; to sail into it you must keep the north shore oa
board, for several rocks lie scattered about its entrance, and S. E. winds commonly send iir
a very rough sea.
FERMOSE. — Near 3 miles further north is Fermose or Fermowes Harbor, and between
them is Bears Cove, off which a sunken rock lies a cable's length from the shore. There ia
no danger in sailing into Fermose Harbor, though the entrance is narrow ; just within it, on
the northern side, is a small Cove, where a fishery is carried on, but the anchorage is indif-
ferent; further in is Admiral's Cove, where merchant vessels ride land-locked in 7 and 8 fa-
thoms; and one mile within that is Vice Admiral's Cove; large ships anchor on its south
side in 12 and 15 fathoms, muddy ground, and very convenient for both wood and water. On
the same side, further in, is Sheeps Head Cove, directly oft' which, near the middle of the
channel, is a bank with only 9 feet, constituting the only known danger within this harbor.
From Fermowes Harbor, about one mile N. E. by E. is Bald Head, N. by E. from which
one mile further is Black Head.
AQUAFORT. — From Black Head to the entrance of Aquafort Harbor the course is N.
by W. distant one mile, at the mouth of which is a rock above water; to the northward of
this rock is the passage in, having 15 fathoms water ; the harbor runs in W. N. W. about 3
miles, becoming narrow as you advance ; here you have 4 fathoms water ; within the narrows.
jundlund.
♦ CAPE RACE ROC ; S. — A large plan, from actual survey, by direction of Admiral Sir Charles
OoLE, is published on the new Chart of the Western Ocean, by E. & G. W. Blunt.
14
BLU^r's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
on tho northern shore, is a little Cove, where vesselH may heave down, the shore bcinq; steep.
To sail ii|), n've the stony In-ach on the north shore a berth, it being uhoal, except at the
point ol'llic narrows, where it is bold to.
FKIlllVL VNI) HAIIIK )|{, is to the northward, and its entrance is betw«:en Kerryland
Head anil Mnis Island, beinij; little more than half a cable's length wide. I'V'rryland Head
has '2 rocks near it, called the Hare's Mars ; when yon have passed these and are within Wn'm
Island, it becomes wider, haviiii; t^ood ancliorai;); with r^ and 10 lathoins, but north east
winds send in a heavy sea over tlu; b)wcr rocks, which run tVoni Hois Island to tht- main.
From Mois Island to (loose Island the course is i\. N. E. -I K. distant half a mile, and
from (ioose to Stone Island the course is N. N. K. r; N. distant half a mile.
CAl'LIN HAV. — Two and a half miles from (loose Islanil is("aplin Hay ninninp in N.
W. by N. ; there is a passage into it, on either side of (ioose Island ; to tiie northward of
Goose, and between it and Stone Island there is no danger, the islands bein.u b<dd to ; but in
passinj^ between it and the Island of Hois take care to keep the point of Kerryland Head
open to the eastward of Hois, by which means yon will avoid a sunken rock having only 2
fathoms water over it; this rock lies nearly midway between (lOose Island and VuM Kast
Point, and having passed this rock no other danger will be found in sailini; up the Hay to
the best anchoraj^e, which is abreast of a Cove on the larboard sliore, and half a mile within
Scogin's Head, with lb fathom's water.
Fr(uii Fcrryland Head to (.'ape Hroyle, the course is nearly N. N. E. distant 2? miles.
Cape Hroyle is high land, making somewhat in the form of a saddle. South of the north
part of the (Jape ^ of a mile, lies the (Jld Harry Hock, over which are only '.i fathoms water,
though between the main and it arc "JO fathotns. E. N. E. of the ('a|)e, distant '} of a
mile, are the Horse Rocks, having from 7 to 14 fathoms over them : the mark for these rocks
is awhile house on Ferryland Downs, open with Stone Islands; and the head ot(Ja|)e Hroyle
Harbor open, will lead directly upon tliem. In stormy weather the sea breaks very high
over them.
CAPE BROYLE HARBOR runs in about 4 miles, between Cape Broyle and Brigrs
Head, their distance from each other being 1^ mile. Within the entrance on the north
side, is Admiral's Cove, where you may anchor in I'i fithoiiis water, good ground, but ex-
posed to the S. E. The best anchorage will be found above the Narrows, in 7 fathoms;
the only danger in the way is the Saturday's Led^e, which lies about 1} cable's length out-
side of the Narrows, on the north shore : bring the saddle of Hrigus Head open of the point
of Admiral's Cove, and you will clear it ; and after yon get beyond the Narrows anchor in
7 fathoms, good ground, very convenient for both wood and water.
BRIGUS. — This is a small cove, or harbor, a little to the northward of Brigus Head ;
but it is only lit for boats.
Four and a half miles from C ipe Broyle is Cape Neddick, a kind of table land moderately
elevated, and steep to. From Cape Neddick to Haliiie Head is l.V mile; one quarter of a
mile tc he northward of this is a Haline Cove, fit only for boats. ^Phe outer part of Great
Island is about 2^ miles N. E. by E. | E. from Cape Neddick ; and from Baline Head to
Spear Island, the course is N. N. E. i E. distant one mile. Within this island is a fishery,
but the anchorage is unsafe, and the bottom rocky. One mile to the northward is Toad's
Cove, fit ouly for boats ; half a mile from which is Tinker's Point, the southern boundary
of Momables Bay; this place is nearly one mile deep; it is open, and its northern point
forms the southern part of Witless Hay ; about three quarters of a mile from which is Green
Island ; and the same distance to the northward of (ireen Island, is (iuU Island, about a
mile in length, and a quarter of a mile in breadth, the land appearing high.
WITLESS BAY extends inwards full two miles from Gull Island, but lies open to the
sea ; the ground is tolerably good, and the deiith of water moderate ; but half way up is a
ledge of rocks off the northern shore, i)art of which are seen at half tide.
BAY OF BULLS. — One mile and a quarter to the northward of Gull Island, is the
southern point of the Bay of Bulls, and from hence to the northern point, called Hull Head,
the course is E. N. E. ^ E. distant one luile and a quarter ; between these points the Bay
runs up N. W. by W. nearly two miles, and then N. \V. by N. one mile further to the river
head. Within this bay the riding is good, in from 20 to 16 fathoms ; and after you have
passed Bread and Cheese Point there is a cove ; off this latter point lies a sunken rock, at
the distance of about half a cable's length, having passed which, the bay is free from dan-
ger, and the shores bold ; run up and anchor over against John Clay's Hill, bringing it to
bear N. E. by N. having 12, 13, and 14 fathoms; the merchant vessels run furtlier in to 10
and 7 fathoms.
Frotn Cape Broyle to the Bay of Bulls, the course is N. E. by N. distance 4^ leagues.
From Bull's Head to the south point of Little or Petty Harbor, from which a reef of rocks
stretches out about a quarter of a mile, the course is N. E. distance 8\ milefe. The south
point of Petty Harbor is distant from the north point 2i miles, between which lies the
bay, running in two miles ; at the bottom of this is a cove and fishery. About midway
between the Bay of Bulls and Little Bay, is a cavern, having an opening at its snmmit,
through which, whenever the sea runs high, the water spouts through, forming a remark-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST *PII.O l'.
15
ahle appcnranee, which iriay be seen far nir, it iH therefore significantly enou<;h niiiiicd the
.S|MJllt.
Kroiii till' noiili, or Tiaily I'oiiit oT Ijittic I lailxir, Capi' Spear lioarn N, K. disiuit 2[
inilcH; it has a low ami ra^i^rd apix-araiicr, ami is tlu- (MNtcniiiiost part uf i\f\vruiiii(llaii(l,
niid lies in latitndc 47^ .'(()' i).i" S. and in lon'j;itiidi'.JJ'-' ;{:j' '27" \V. Vessels Crnni theeant'
ward, upon ^ettinu into soiiiidint^s, and hound torSt. John's, <;enerally steer tor this point.
Hetwet II the ("apt- and the entrance to St. John's, are three hays ; the (irst is cdh'd Cupo
I> ly, and lies hetween ('ape Spear and Mlack Head; tlie set oiid is called iJeadman's IJay,
and lies between Ulack heati and Small point; and i • third is called Freshwater IJay, uud
lies between Small Point and Kort Amherst.
.ST. JOHN'S llARUOU is one of tin- priii<i|)al places in Newfonndland, beini; the
seat of (Jovernineiit : and althoiu^h its eiiirain c is narrow, its harbor is excellent, and its
situation readily known, ixith by the Islockhonsc built on Signal Hill, at the lunlh side, ;iiui
Fort Amherst on its south liead, or point of entrance. The channel, from point to point,
is only .'{faO fathoms wide; but it trets wider just within the |)oints than between them, de-
creasing again as you approach tlie Chain Rock, for from the latter to tlie I'ancake Rock,
the distance is only yj fathoms, these are rocks, bothbeiiii,' above water, and steep to; Chain
is the northern rock, and l'an(;ake Hock lies on the south side of the channel.
In approaching tlie Harbor of .St. John's with a lari,'e ship, care must be taken to avoid
the Vestal Rock, which lies about ."iO fathoms olf the southern, or Fort Amherst Point;
over this rock are •,';> feet water; tin; marks for if are Fort William, or the OUl Garrison,
just open of the south head ; and the outer Wash Rail Rock open to the eastward of the
Cuckold's Heai! ; these latter rocks lie close to the northern |)oint of the harbor, and are
always above water, being steep to, and therefore not dangerous. The course in is N. W.
hy W. the shores continuing bold until you get near the Pancak- , then give the south side
a small berth, continue the same course, or rather more inclined to the westward, keeping
Fort Amherst Flagstaff open to the northward of F'rederick's ij.itery Flas;stalf; you will
by these means avoid the Prosser, a rock on the larboard side, running olf the end of another
rock, formed like a saddle, with Iri feet water in the hollow, and only <') feet on its outside ;
yet it is steep to, having not less than 5 fathoms close to it; so soon as you are within, and
have passed the Prosser Rocks, you may steer up as you please, both shores being clear of
dangers, and anchor in from 4 to 10 fathoms water, on a bottom of mud, and lying quite
land-locked.
'J'he winds from tlie S. W. to the southward, as far as N. E. by E. blow in, all other
directions of the ivind either balllt! or blow out of the Narrows; with the latter winds you
must warp in, for the convenience of doing which, rings are (ixed in the rocks on each side :
the anchorage within the Narrows has from 10 to 16 fathoms, and a little before you enter
the Narrows there are 'JO fathoms.
The tides rise (>, ', and 8 feet, but very irregular, being much influenced by the winds;
and the variation is about two points west.
FROM ST. JOHN'S HARBOR TO BACCALOU ISLAND.
We recoininend the mariner to be careful, lest, if a stranger to the coast, he should mis-
take Kitty Vitty, a small place tit only for boats, lying about one mile to the northward of
St. John's, for St. John's itself; at a distance it has the appearance of a good harbor; he
will therefore observe, that at Kitty V'itty's south side is a round hill, shaped like a hay-
cock, standing upon Cuckold's Head; while St. John's Harbor may be distinguished by
Fort Amherst, which appears white ; and by the (lag-staves on the hill, over the north point
of entrance ; these will sutficiently denote the right entrance.
About one mile from Cuckold's Point, is a small point or projection of the land ; and two
miles further is Sugar Loaf Point, tapering upward, and much re.seiiiljling a sugar loaf.
One league further is Red Head; between Sugar Loaf Point ami which is Logy Bay.
TORBAY. — One mile and a half from Red Head is the south point of Torbay, which
is somewhat lower than the others. From this point to (treenCove, the customary place
where vessels anchor, the course is W. N. W. ai)OUt two miles, where you may ride in 14
and 12 fathoms, but it is much exposed to seaward. This bay is large, being full a league
in extent; from olf its northern point is a Hat rock, where the sea breaks; a heavy swell
sets from the eastward into the bay, so that it is not a good place to lie in.
From Flat Rock Point, which is low dark land, the coast runs northerly to Red Head, a
distance of two miles; and from thence to Black Head, N. E. by E. two miles more; the
latter bearing north, distant 6^ miles from Torbay South Point.
CAPE ST. FRANCIS.— From Black Head to Cape St. Francis the course is N. N.
W. distant one league. Cape St. Francis has a white appearance, and is itself low, but
above it the land rises high. A little south of the Cape is Shoe Cove, a place used in ba^
weather for splitting and saUing fish. Ofi' the Cove there is good fishing, and with nqp*
therly, westerly, and southt. 'y winds you will lie safe within the cove. '
About one mile aud a half east of the Cape lie the Brandy Rocks, iu a triangular position,
1
..^„.«..-. . if.^
IG
nLlI.NTS AMEKICAN COAST IMF.OT.
1,
jlie oiilfrrnrtHi hcini; •li^'faiit from tlic (^apc IJ mile : fhf sra bruaks ovrr lliom : aritl tliorc
'\H a chiiiiiii-l lii-lwi'cri llinii and ilii- ('a|)i', lull (iio ilatij^'MiMis to lir altniipicd ; tlicst- ri>vk:4
cuiifiilcralily adil In \\\v siilrly nrSlint' ('ovi'
'riH-ri' is aN<i anotlicr stnidl ( 'ov«>, lit (oi biiats, to llic tiortliward of tlu> Capt', which may
he ii>>ed with tlir uiiid oil' sIidi'c.
('()N(M;I'TI<>.\ HAV.— ('apt! St. l-'rancis, wliicli wo have already dcs( rihnl, is tlii!
soiillirri) point ot ('oik cplioii Itay. From ('apt: St. Kraiii'ls to tlic Noiilhrrii puidt (triliit-
raloii Island, u hicli may Ix* considrnMl ilii> other point or lioiiiidary of ( '(inception Hay, ilii>
<Minrse and distance is N. .N. K. \ N. ") ' leii;;iieH; this is an extensive and deep liay, run-
iiin'4 to the souih-wesiwiird, and cimipreliendin<4 many lesser Mays and Inlels.
HKIiliK ISI.K.— Four leanness, W. hy \V. from Cape St. Vrancis is l\v\\v Isle, in
kuuiii ■')'; mile.H, in lireadlli alioiil two ; this island is hd'ty, and itr* eastern side is near three
mill's oil the main; tiiere is (m this sidi-, a heiich, to the soiiihward ot' which is ^ood an-
ehora:^!*, in :!(M'athoMis, sandy ;;ronnil; ami a lea.Mie fnrlher, near the sontii pail of the
iiHlMiid, is also ttderaliie anchorage in from 15 to ;il) falhoins. .\tthe south end (d'tlie island
ks a small Cove, ealli.'d lianee ('ove, whieli fisliiii'j; vessids soinelimes resort to, and liinl
j(ood shelter for live or six vessels. One mile from the south part of the island lies a rock,
over whicli are •*', fithouis water. Two miles .'^. hy W. from Lance Cove, lies ;i small low
ixland, called liililr Melle Isle, \V. S. \V . (d' which, disiaiu \\ mile, is Kelley's Island, oi
iiiiddrmt.' heiizht, and aliont three (piarKMs of a mile in letiuth.
Within Itelle Isle, on the main, is I'mlu^al Cove, the anchorage within which is not
connidered safe. 'I'o the southward is hroad (Jove, and at the iiottom of the Day is ilollv-
rood tiarlior, in depth alioiil .'(', miles; in a Cove, on the west side of w hich, is ^uud anclior.
a;;e in H, '), 10 or IJ fathoms water, and ru<im enonjih to moor.
Followini; the ,'.i),ist, ahoi't 1', mile from llollyr(»od entrance, is llarhor Main, aliout I',
mile ill depth, and half a mile wide ; it is an open place, but near the upper part yuii may
uiH'hor in from 7 to 10 fathiMiis water.
SALMON (;0\'K. — One mile I'urther is .'Salmon ('ove, the entrance to whidi is a mile
wide; the course in is \V. S \V. about 'J', miles, it I hen divides into two branclies, one to I In-
westward about one mile, the other southward one mile and a half; in either of these liianches
tlie anchorage is good, but the southern river is considered the better one, ther<! beiii^ no
danger in entering. In the western branch a rock lies at a Hiiiall distance from the .star-
board shore, having on cither side a passage, but the southern <me is the wider of the two.
COLLIKR'8 HAV. — To the norlhward near one league, lies Collier's l!.iy, running
inward south-westerly full two leagues ; one mile and a half from the eiitianct of which lies
a sunken rock, nearly inid-chanmd, on both sides of which the cli.innel is good ; this rock
is Wsible at three quarters ebb. Two and u lialf miles up the bay is good ancliorage in 10
fathoms water, on the eastern side, and wpposite a small (Jove ; into this Cove v«>ssels may
go, and ride in 3 and 4 fathoms w aler. Higher t'p the Bay is another Cove, at the further
distaace of ft mile, but it is both foul and shallow. Near the head of tlie Hay the anclior-
age is good in 8, 9, and 10 fatlumis.
BRIG I S BAY is two miles to the northward of Collier's Bay, and seldom fie(|upnted but
by small vessels, it being open, and too far up C'onception Bay : it runs in from Hrigns Head
about l.V mile, and has anchorage in from 10 to i') fathoms; or at the head of the Hay, be-
hind a small island, on the south side, small craft may lie secure from all winds, with H and 4
fathoms water, and moor to the shores. The south point ofBrigus Bay may be known by
its peculiar raszged a[)pearance.
PORTGRAV^F, or L'ORT l)F (iRAVE, BAY lies to the northward of IJrigus, and has
within it Sheep's and Cupid's (Jovcs; the latterison the southside ofthe Hay, andisagood
place for '2 or ',> ships to ride in, with 4, .'>, and (» fathoms water, almost laiul-lockc<l, and
having not above one jjoiiit open ; its north side is bold, and you may lie alongside thr rocks,
and take in your cargoes ; the shore on the northern side is remarkably high, and called
Spectacle llcai!. .Shee|)s, or Ship C^ove, will accommodate small vessels in 4 and .j fathoms
water, mooring head ; ud stern, having their S. W. anchor in 2'2 fathoms, about a cable and
a quarter's length from the ship.
Portgrave is about three quarters of a mile to the westward of Ship Cove; the water
within the islands is shallow, but without, them the anchorage is "20 and 25 fathoms dee]),
where you will be quite exposed to south-easterly winds. Burnt Head is the south point of
Portgrave Bay; from whence 2}; miles N. F. | N. lies Bay Roberts Point, the southern
point of the entrance to Robert's Bay, which is H mile broad, and runs in to the south-west-
ward .5 miles. One mile above Bay Roberts Point is Blowniedown Head, which is higher
than any land near it; half a mile within this is a Cove.
BAY ROBFRTS has no invisible danger at its entrance; you may borrow on either side
or go close to the island, which lies further in on your starboard side ; having passed which,
you may run on about a mile, and lie land-locked in 9 or 10 fathoms ; between the island
and main vessels can anchor, but the gronnd is foul and bad ; and there are two sunken rocks,
one bein? near the inner part of the island, the other above the island and near the main.
BLUNT M AMKKICAIN COAST l»II,OT.
17
T»» iiiilt'*! nliove tlic isliiiid in rxccllt'iit luiclioriiKf, in llie N. W, iirm or luaiich of tlif
Itiiv, on niii<lil\ i;iiMiiiil ; uivc tlic Nniitli ptiiiit a ^ooil IktiIi mi xailin^ in, as Hiune rucka under
HaiiT lii' iMMr i(, anil (lit* siailxtard *<lioi«' nlioals near liali n cnldc'H icni;lh.
Sl'AMAIMlS liAV in divnlrd Ironi ISav HolintN liv an iNllnnuM, or nrck of land; lliii
ll;iy iH drrj) and I'Mrnxivf, l>ul n\)vti to tin- S. Kasicrly winds; llii re Ih aiuhoraKP within it,
iii'inly all nvcr, <'H|)ci'ially at ilH licad, in 7 ami H ralliiiMis water.
Two Icaiiiii'i N. K. Ironi Spimiani'M Kay are tlit- islandN ol ilarlior (iracc, tlicy are din*
taiit from Cape St. Francis aliout (> I<mkiu<h, lioaiiiii^ K. { .Sontli. Tti the couthwiird iitHry-
aiit'H Cove, a vi'tod plaee for (ish, hut not (or>iliippinn ; iheieisa riuU midway of the entrance ;
\i)ii may Nail in on either side ot tliin rock, and fmd j;;oo(I anclu)ra^e in 4 :ind 5 fatlu)mH w uter.
Till' uroniiil uidiiii the rock \h clean.
IIAKIJOl! (ilvACK. — 'I'liL- entrance to the harhor is to the northward of the isiandii,
fiirtiiihe sotitliwnrd, and hetwcen them and the whore, the ciiaiinel i.s narrow and tlie ground
isliiui ; the course in will he nearly west : almost mid-charmel is the .Salvaye Kock, no danger
isiiutside of this rock ; there is also ariolher rock, (ailed the Lon;^ Il.irry, lying near the
iiorili shore ; both these rocks aie aliove water, and always visible. When you are within the
SalvajL'c, <n> no nearer ilie west shore than just to open a passaye on the west side of the
I.uiijl; Harry, the leadiiiK mark for sailing; in lieinjn the hi)j;h point of the main, called Mosquito
I'liiiil, just open to the eastward of Loni; Harry Kock ; this will carry you in with not lesa
than J'.' fathoms, (jMile npto the h irlmr, clear of all danj^er : but toward the eastern shore,
you may stand over uiiiil you hrini; the W'estciii [jandmark on with the Cupola of the
Cliapel ; you will then he up to llie north side ;»f the har, anil must take care not to open
iJM'^ie marks, especially if the mark in the Cove at ."^hip's Head is open with the mark on the
puiiit of AdmiiMl's ISeach; hul if you can hri'iu the \\'i-stern [^aniimark at the hack of the
Chapel on w ith the ( 'npola, Ix lore the mark at the Cove at ."^hip's Head <()ines on with the
mark at the poini of Admiral's Heaeh, (hen you will he in the narrows, and must not stand
fiu'lhi r over to the eastw ai d liian to lirin^ those marks in one, and coiitimu' turning with these
marks to the east and west, until you hriim the Kasiern liandmark at the hack of the Chapel
on with the Cupola, then you will he within the har, and should slanil w ell over to the east-
ward. Alioiil hallway down lliis harhor a l)road spit of sand runs oil" from the southern shore,
exieiidini; full two thirds over to\\;irds the ('liapel; this appe;us to l)e what Mr. Lane has
called the har, it has I ' -J, .'!, and :t.', fathoms in some places over it ; hut there is a channel
l>iM\veen it ami the norihern shore, with t and f) t'athoms water; to sail through which bring
Oticrhury llearl on with the point of the heach at .*Nhip's Head, this will also lead to the
iiorlhward of tlie island of the llailxir (irace. A white rock on the heach at the west end of
Father Kwcr's House, near the Catholic Chapel, will clear the cast end of the spit; the
wi'stcrn post of the said l'\ilhiM's Mwer's (late on with the openini^ between the Spire and tht
west end of the (^iiholic Chapel, will clear the west end of the Hpit ; and the outer edge of
the Lons; Harry on wiih the extreme point of the iu)r.thern shore, will clear the shoal onitf
iiorihein side. 'I'his is a very yood and convenient anchoraf^e, with room enough for a vessel
to turn in or mit of the narrows; rhj/" the marks here (.'iven are very easily to he distinguished,
and will dear all dan.uers. The Middle Mark at the back of the Chapel on with the Cupola,
and the mark at .Ship's Head on with that at Admiral's JJeach, leads on to the shoalest part of
the har. To the nortliward of Harbor (irace is Carhonierre Ishuiil and Harhor; before
you reach which is .Mos(|uiio Cove, a place between Harbor (Jrace and Carhonierre, littk
iVcipiented, althou^ih ihe amdiorage is good, it not bein^ convenient for the fisheries.
CARBONIKIIIHO ISJ^AM) lies about ]H miles from C;ipe St. Francis, its. southern
end is low land, hut upon it stands a small fort, built lor the defence of tyie fishermen.
The island is bold to, so are the shores of the hari)or, hut olf the S. W. end of the island
are several rocks under water: the ])iissage therefore, between the island and the main, should
not be attempted. On tlie iu)rth side, o])posite Carhonierre Island, are two small Coves,
where the planters live, who keep (isliing boats; the norihern of these is called Clown's Cove,
fit only for boats; the other is called ('rocker's Cove, and is fejjaratcd only from Carho-
nierre Bay by a small jioint of land, named Crocker'.s Point. Oif these ('oves are several
rocks, hoth above and under w;iter; therefore, in saiiinc: either in or out of the Bay of Car-
honierre, these must have a berth; and after you reach Otterbury Point you may stand in
to either shore, both being hold to, until you near the head of the harbor: this is a good
place for riding in. It is wide, and with water of various depths for anchoring every where.
Two miles N. E. by N. from Carhonierre Island is .Salmon Cove Head, high and steep;
behind which is a Cove, where abundance of salmon are caught ; an island lies in the mid-
way of the channel, hut the cove is only fit for boats.
GREKN BAY. — Four or five miles further north is Broad Cove Head; and 85 milefl
further is Green or Western Bay Point; oil' the shore, . :.J about a mile to the northward of
Broad Cove, is anchorage in from 10 to 1.5 fathoms. At the entrance to Green Bay, is anchor-
age in 15 and IG fathoms, but it would be dangerous to go far into the Bay, which is quite
open to the eastward.
18
BLUiNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
f i '
Fi"e miles to rtie north-eastward of Green Hay is Devil's Point Cove, a plare of little note,
and further on is Fiainborousih Head, bhuk and steep to; there is no jsjood plare of shelter
hereabout, nor from Carbonierre to the Island Baealieu, except with the wind o(T shore.
BAY VERDF; is about lialf a mile to I he westward of the liead, and np to the f'ove is
three qtiarters of a mile; the entranre is not aiiove a ralile's lena;lh across, and vessels lie
about half a cable's length from the head of the bay, in 5 fathoms water, having a cable
fastened to the shore, and an anchor out astern; six or seven ships can lie in tliis manner,
but S. W. winds blowing right in, \\< old make that a dangerous situation; it is also a bad
place ("or either wood or water, but the great quantities of fish which resort here, occasion it
to be much frequented. It is a place easily Unowii by Hacalieu and the projecting land, called
Split Point ; Bay Verde Head itself will serve to point out its position, for tliese three
heads, Bay Verde Head, Split Point and Baealieu Island, appear prominent blulf land, very
similar to one another, as you come from the southward ; and there is no hidden danger in
entering the Bay. The Island 15acalieu is high land, nearly 4 miles long and 1 J broad, it is
distant 1^ mile from the main, and between is a good channel; nearly midway between its
southern point and Split Point is a sunken rock, over which, in blowing weathfcr, the sea ge-
nerally breaks, although it is six fathoms under water, and steep to all round.
From Split Point about 4 J miles is the Point of (Jrates, having rounded whi<;h, you will
open Trinity Bay.
FROM BACALIEU, OR BACCALOU, ISLAND TO CAPE BONA VISTA.
TRINITY BAY is, like Conception Bay. wide, extensive, and forms itseilf south-west-
ward; like that also, it contains many lesser bays and harbors within it; these will be regu-
larly described in rotation Point (irates is the S. Eastern point of the Bay; from which,
distant about 2 miles, is Break-heart Point, and between them is a kind of Bay, where
boats, with an oft'-shore wind, ride in safety ; within this iJay is a ledge of rocks above water.
To the southward of Break-heart Point is Scurvy Island, and between this island and Sher-
wick Point is a hay running in S. S; E. about three cjuartcrs of a mile; the course from
Break-heart Point to Sherwick Point is S. W. by W. ."> miles. 0(V the latter .s a rock above
water; this forms the northern point of Old Pcrlican; vessels cannot go between the island
and point, although the passage appears good and open, because the ground is altogether foul
and rocky, always therefore run in to the southward of the island, and when you have passed
it, anchor in 4 or 5 fathoms; this cannot be considered a good harbor, as the ground is bad
for holding, and with the wind at N. W.you will then be obliged to buoy your cables.
From Old Perlican to Salvage Point the course is W. ^ N. distant 5 miles; Salvage
Point requires a good berth, having a reef of rocks running out from it, the point itselfislow.
From Salvage Point to Hants Head riie coiirst* is W. by S. distant? miles; and one mile
to the eastward of the Head is Hants Harbor, fit for small craft only ; two miles oil' which is
Hants Harbor Rock, over which the sea generally breaks; bring King's Head opm of tlie
Sugar Loaf, and you will clear it to the northward. Two miles further is King's Head, and
from King's Head to the Sugar Loaf the course and distance is S. W. i W. about .3 miles.
Eastward of the Sugar Loaf is Sillee Cove, fit only for boats, and unsafe for vessels.
NEW PERLlCA>f. — From the Sugar Loaf to the north point of the entrance of New
pQrlicEln, the beaming is S. W. { W. distance 2 miles; and Onr mile further is the Harbor,
small, but tolerably good, within whicli you may ride land-locked in from 5 to 10 fathoms;
the shores are bold to, and free from danger; the entrance is nearly two miles wide, being
bounded by Smutty Nose Point on the east, and (iorlob Point on the west; but as yon ad-
vance the harbor becomes narrower, sO that at the anchorage it will scarcely be half a mile
broad.
HEART'S CONTENT— Three miles from New Perlican is Heart's Content, a good
harbor, fit for any ship, with excellent anchorage towards the north shore, in from H to I'J
fathoms water. One league further is Heart's Desire, fit for boats only ; and 31 miles beyond
that is Heart's Delight, another cove, adapted for small craft only. From Heart's Delight,
about three miles, is Long Point, projecting considerably into the Bay, and a league fnrtiier
is Witless Bay, by no means a place of saf^'ty, being too much exjjosed, and the bottom nnky ,
between Long Point and Witless Bay are two small islands, which you leave on your lar-
board side.
One mile from Witless Bay is Green Harbor, where vessels may anchor in from 7 to 10
fathoms; three miles further is llope-all-a-head ; two miles beyond which is New Harbor,
a place of shoal water, and only fit for l)i)ats.
DILDO HARBOR— Two and a half miles from New Harbor is Dildo Harbor, with-
in which is very good anchorage, in a cove, at the northern side of the entrance, in from 10
to 20 fathoms water, good clean gound. Three miles from thence is Chapel Bay, the mouth
of which is a mile broad, and the bay about three miles deep ; here, behind a small island,
about two miles in, is good anchorage in from H to 12 fathoms. About 6 miles to the north-
ward is Collier's Bay, very similar, and running nearly in the same direction to Chapel Bay ;
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
19
e of little notr,
)l:ire of shelter
ncl off shore,
to the Cove is
111(1 vessels lie
lining a ciil)le
1 this manner,
t is also H bad
re, dceasion it
ria; land, called
)r tlipse three
)liilf land, very
df'M danger in
1 i broad, it is
ay between its
ir, the sea ge-
hiCh, you will
AVISTA.
If south-west-
will be reuu-
; from which,
f Hay, where
s above water,
uid and >Sher-
> course from
i a rock above
L'en the island
lltii^etherfonl
u have passed
ground is bad
your cables,
ilfs; .Salvage
t itself is low.
and one mile
5 olf which is
I opm of the
's Head, and
bout 3 miles.
r vessels,
ance of New
the Harbor,
ID fathoms;
H wide, being
lit as yon ad-
•e half a mile
itenf, a good
■oin 8 to ll>
iiiles bevond
rt's Del'lffht,
ague further
ittoiu n» Uy ,
on your lar-
rom 7 to 10
few Harbor,
arbor, with-
, in from 10
, the mouth
mall island,
1 the north-
)hapel Bay;
seven miles further is tlie Point of Tickle Harbor Bay, which runs inward, In a southerly
(iircction, full 8 miles; there is no danger in the way, and though little frequented, the an-
chorage is safe.
BA V OF BULLS. — To the northward is the Bay of Bulls, running in a N. N. Westerly
direction to within '2 miles of Chance llivcr in IMacentia ]>ay ; tiiore is very good anchorage
in various [larts of this Bay, in IJ and lo faihoins water, particularly on the western side in a
Cove, about onemile and a half fnmi tlifcnirai)ce, wiihfiom 10 to l.o fatlioms, sandy ground;
to the N. E. is Bull Island, ancJ 5 miles further Cojijicr Island ; bollj tliese lie very near the
shore: we now open Deer Harbor, a place extensive, and good for anchorage, but barred
with many shoals; the first shoal lies midway between Tickle Point and Deer Island, having
6 fathoms ou its shallowest part, and tliercfore not dangerous; but one third of a mile fur-
ther in, is ii bank with only J and 2!. fathoms v.ater ; bring the |)oint of the N. E. Cove open
of Shallop Cove Point, and you will go clear to the westward in 7 fatlioms water. There
is also another shoal lying off the jioint on the outside of Sliallop Cove, on which are 2j
fathoms, this will be avoided by just oi)eni)ig tlie jioint of Deer Island with the first point
on the main, within Deer Island; and after you have passed Harbor Islatid, you may an-
chor on good ground, in from 10 to Jd fathoms. 'J'ln' entrame of Deer ilarbor bears from
the north point of Bacalieu Island, W. l i>. distant about l;; leagues.
Full "2' miles N. E. from tlie entrance to Deer Harbor is Jones's Harbor, the mouth of
which is not above a (juarler of a mile wide, and the channel in is. in several parts, still less ;
it runs in '2.7 or A miles, and has good anchorage in from -j to 24 fathoms water. To the
southward is a high and steep island, called .loncs Island ; about 4 miles from which is Bald
Head ; and 2 miles further (ianny Cove ; its entrance is cijiitiiied, being not more than a quar-
ter of a mile wide ; there is, nevertheless, good riding within it in 10, 12, and 15 fathoms ;
about a cable's length off the north shore, just at the entrance, lies a sunken rock, and about
a mi|e S. S. E. from the south ]7oint of Long Island, is another rock, by some called White
Island, just appearing above water; this i/ick bears S. \V. tVoiii I'andom South Head.
Random North Head lies W. by N. distant 'j\ leagues from the north end of Bacalieu
Island, and about 4', leagues N. by \V. iViun New Perlicati.
RANDOM S(_)UND 1m stothe wtvstward. and comprehends several arms an. 1 harbors: thus
Randtmi and Smith's Sounds unite and form Random Island, the channels being narrow,
long, and circuitous; at the junction of the two sounds is a small island with a bar of only
two fathoms water, the pass:>g(! being not a mile broad. About :'. leagues from Random North
Head, lies Hickman's llarl)or, w here you w iU find goorl anchor;i;^^e in 1.5 fathoms. Random
North Head bears from Random South Head N. K. -, E. distant;! miles. When you are
within the entrance of Kandoiii Sound there is a branch i uns in toward the south west, about
1 mile wil'iin which is Fox Cove, (it for boats, and -'miles further Little Heart's Ease, a simi-
lar Cove running in a quarter of a mile, tli^ii <lividing into 2 branches, the western one has 4 and
i) fathoms within it, but the eastern branch is shallow and adapted for boats only. There is also
an anchorage 2 miles further, on the same side in a cove with an Island before it, with 8 fathoms,
and not farfrom this is another Cove on the noithernside. where a vessel may ride in 7 fathoms.
.SMITH S(JUNI) has generally deep water, and is in most places one rnlle wide until
you get near the head. Shut-in Harbor is on ihp starboard side, it is nearly at the entrance,
and has no safe anchorage, the groiuifl being rocky; .'} miles further up is Pope's Harbor,
this also is encumbered with rocks, a shoal lyinc near the mitldle of it. The direction of
the channel is westward about 7.V leagues. To the eastward of Kandom Island are Duck
and (ireen Islands, both lying a consideralde distance fV(jnj the main : the latter is high, and
may be seen as far as Trinity Harbor, it hears from Bonaveiiture Head S. W. | S. distant
about 6 miles; and Bonavimture Head bears from the entrance of Smith's Sound E. N. E,
\ E. distant 5 miles. To the north-westward of Green Isiand is Vnlhony Island and Ire-
land's Eye ; the latter is 3.', miles in length, and lies in a .S. W. and ,\'.. E. direction, making
the larboard side of the entrance to Smith's .Sounrl. The northern point of Ireland's Eye
bears from Bonaventure Head nearly S. W. distvuit .'>' miles.
There is a small place of anchorage called Ryder's Harbor, formed by a little island near
the main, and bearing from (Jreen Islatnl S. E. | E. distant 4 miles, the passage to it is
round the west end of the ]ioint, olf •.vliich are some si .ttered rocks both above and under
water; within this harbor are .3 fathom's vatcr, a",l about a (jnarierofa mile from Ryder's
Island the N. W. arm branches ofl', runnins west»vnrd one mile, and being about a quarter
of a mile wide; here are 7 fathoms and good anchorite. From Bonaventure Head to Port
Bonaventure is 2 miles, hut when you are a mile off, and to the southward of the Head,
the Harbor to the Admiral's Stage will lie about N. by W.
POPi^T BONAVENTfJRE'S best entrance is between 2 small islands, but you may go
on either side of them in 3 and 4 fathoms water, with a leading win 1 there will be little danger,
and when you are within, and have passed these Islands, anchor in 4 and 5 fathoms; south-
erly winds here send in a very heavy sea : there is however a secure place for boats within
a point behind the Admiral's Stage, appearing like a great pond, where 100 boats may lie,
eytn with bad weather, in safety.
'
20
blukt's a.merican coast pilot.
'I
!
From Bacnlicn ?«orth Point to nonavpnturp [lead the course and distance is N. W. |
W. 22i miles. Honaventure Head is remariiably high and steep.
From Bonaventiue Head to tiie entrance of Trinity Harbor, the course and distance is
N. E. ^ N. 4? miles, and from Bonaventurc Head to the Horsecliops E. N. E. A E. 8 miles.
TRfNITY HARBOR is considered one of the best and Intrest harbors in all New-
foundland, havinj^ several arms and coves, where some hundred ships may ride land-locked.
It is a place which you may safely turn in or out, being bold-to on each side, and havinj;
no danger but what is visible ; except when going into the S. W. arm, where the Admiral's
Stage usually is, there is a shoal, called the Muscle Bank, from which shoots olf the point
within the small island on the larboard side going in, and extends over N. N. W. about a third
of the breadth of that arm. Being within that bank, which will discover itself by the color
of the water, you may edge over close to the south shore, or keep your learl going to avoid
the Muscle Bank, giving it a little distance ; the mark for avoiding it is the house, standing
over the steep perpendicular rock, situaterl between ^J'avernor's Point and Ship Cove, ojien
of the Neddick ; keep this mark on, until you are halfway over to the Neddick, then hanl
toward the S. W. branch, taking care to avoid the south shore, till you shut in Tavernor's
Point with the Neddick ; you will then go within tbe Muscle Bardi. Vou may anchor in
from 14 to 10 fathoms, and approach near to the stage on shore, i^o as to make a stage with
topmasts to your stage on sliore, to load or unload your ship. This will be found a most
excellent harbor ; for, after you are in the 8. W. arm, you will perceive another branch run-
ning up to the N. W. which is continued by another to the 8. W. but there is a bar or
ledge, at the entrance of tlie 8. W. arm. The N. W. arm is also a large place, having
good anchorage for 500 sail of ships. Besides the fore-mentioned anrs, the main harbor
turns up to the north.
Ships, being within the harbor's moutli, may safely ride in a large cove, on the starboard
or east side, land-locked, on good ground ; here the jdanters live. Over against that cove,
on the larboard or west side, are two other coves ; the southernmost of them is called the
Vice Admiral's Cove, very convenient for curing fish: and above, or to the northward of
that, is a large cove, or arm, called Got's Cove, where there is room enousrli for .'>00 or 400
sail of ships to ride, all on clear ground; there neither winds nor sea nor tide can hurt you,
and iuthis place ships may lie undiscovered until the weather becomes clear and open.
, There are several other anchoiing places in this harbor with good clean gromid. ''J'lie
1)Ottom every where is tough clay, with 4 and 5 fathoms water, within twd boats' lengtlis of
the shore ; and 6,7, 8, 9, 10, I'i, and 14 fathoms, and in some places more, in the middle
of the arms and channels. You may turn in or out readily, observing your tide, which rises
about 4 feet, and sometimes nmre.
ROBINHOOD'S BAY.— Sherwick Head, which is the eastern point of Trinity Har-
bor, forms also the S. Western boundary of Robinhood's Bay, the entrance to which is a
mile wide, and the bay extends northward nearly two miles; here vessels frequently ride
and fish, in from 7 to 17 fathoms water; at tlie further or upper end of this bay there are
some spots of shallow water, but at its entrance, and between Sherwick and Fox Island
Points there is no danger whatever.
SALMON COVE'and ENGLISH HARBOR lie to the eastward of Robinhood's Bay,
being only divided from it by a narrow neck of land, called Fox's Island. The former of
these runs in northerly, and is considered a good fishing place ; it is clear of dangers, and
has a good depth of water, from 17 to 10 an(l 8 fathoms; the eastern shore is hold to, and
at the further end of the cove there is a small run of water, which extends about two miles
to the northward.
ENGLISH HARBOR is situated at the S. Eastern entrance of Salmon Cove; it is a
clean bay, where you may ride in 4 and ."> fathoms water. From hence the coast rounds to
the eastward to the Horsechops, a distance of more than three miles; it is all high land,
steep toand without danger. To the N. Eastward of Horsechops is (ireen Bay, open and
entirely exposed to the southward ; at the eastern part of this Bay is a small sandy bcacii
with a rivulet of water; this place is little frequented, and is neither convenient for ships to
fish or ride in. When you have passed this Bay, there is no sheltering cove or place untd
you reach Ragsred and Catalina Harbors.
RAGGED HARBOR is so named from the rough and craggy appearance of the sur-
rounding rocks, which render it unsj-fe for either boats or ships to enter ; but tor those who
intend going there, we shall observe, they must go to the northward of the reef of rocks at
its entrance, running on north, until the Harbor comes quite open, then you may steer in
between the Roun<l Island near the main, and a large black rock, being the outermost of tlie
ragged ones before mentioned; sail on until you are to the westward of them all, or until
you get the south head of Catalina to appear between the westernmost rock and the main,
then anchor. A river of good water is at the head of the Harbor.
CaTALINA H.'VRBOR is nearly two miles to the northward of Ragged Harbor, and
is in the latitude of 48° 31' 15" N. bearing from the north point of Bacalien Island nearly
north, distant 24 miles. It is a good harbor for small vessels, and may be known by a sin-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
21
cular green island at tlie south |)oints of its entrance; near half a mile to the north of this
island, is the iJrandy Kocks, a lediie over which tlie sea frequently l)reaks ; you may go on
either side of these rocks, ^ivina; the little island a herlh, or with a lead'rig wind lietween
the island and the main, lh()uu;li this passage is exceeding narrow, in 4 and 5 fathoms. Just
within the entrance of the llarhor is Charlton Eock or slioal, lying nearly mid channel,
over which are oidy 8 feet water; you must avoid bringing the north point of IJreen Island
on with IJurnt Head, the soiuli point of the harbor, for that will carry you right upon the
rock ; there is a passage between the island and rock, and also between the rock and the
north shore, only steering nearer the main about two thirds over.
LITTLE CATA liLN A JJAV lies inwards on the northern side ; from Catalina Harbor
to Little Catalina the course is about N. E. li mile; and thence to the north head of the
Bay E. N. K. a little easterly -l ; miles; when within the Harbor you may anchor close to
the shore in 4 and 5 fathoms land-locked ; or to the southward of the Little Green Island
in ;5', fathoms, or by rumiing up two miles further obtain fresh water. In the S. W. arm or
branch of the river, where there is aiu;horage in 5 fathoms, the harbor runs westerly. Some-
limes the water in this harbor will suddenly rise 3 or 4 feet, then fall again, and in certain
seasons it w ill often do so 2 or .{ times in 3 or 4 hours. It abounds w ith salmon, and the
herb Alexander grows luxuriantly on the Little Lsland ; near a small Cove, at the N. W. is
a sort of mineral, of a glittering nature, generally called Fire Stone ; excellent willicks may
be found on the rocks.
From the south to the north head of Catalina the course is N. E. f E. distant 3\ miles,
and between them are from l.S to 5 fathoms water; the whole way is a kind of broken
ground, and in blowing weather the sea fre<|uently breaks high over it.
From the north head of Catalina to h'lower's Point, the course is N. N.E. | E. distant
v.", miles; and one tuile to the eastward of (he Point lie some sunken rocks; you may go
between Flower's l*oint and these rocks, in 0 fathoms water, but it is more advisable to pass
on ihe outside of them ; this you will readily do by bringing (iull Island open of Spiller's
Point, or by keeping the south head of Catalina open of the north head.
From I"'lower's i'oint to Hird's Island is -J miles : within J]ird's Island is a small bay
where shi])s can occasionally ride, in one branch which runs up towards the west, and iuthe
other, amidst some rocks, which are above water. Bird's Islajul Bay extends so far as
Cape L'Argent.
From Flower's Point to Cape L'Argent is .{j^ miles, it is rather a low rocky point, having
also a large rock above water lyitig off it.
From Cape L'Argent to Spiller's Point, is U mile ; between these points, the lead falls
into very deep water. Spiller's Point is steep and bold to, but not very high, with a rock
above water near it; over the point, you may discern the high land of Port Bonavista a great
way off at sea.
From Spiller's Point to Cape Bonavista the course is north, distant almost one league ;
between them is a deep bay, which might be mistaken for the ilarbor of Bonavista, from
the head of which it is only divided by a neck of land, two miles over, and from Red Head
Bay it is not above a musket shot.
Hitherto the allowance made for the variation of the compass has been two points west,
which it is presumed will be found sulliciently near to the truth, for all the purposes of navi-
gation ; but from hence to the iu)rthward it apjiears to have generally increased. At the
Capes which form Bonavista Bay, the variation in 18'-i0 was 30° 28' W. at Barrow Harbor
li8= 30' W. and at Happy Adventure only -28°.
FPvOM CAPE BONAVLSTA TO CAPE FREELS (NORTH.*)
CAPE BONAVLSTA is in latitude 48" 42' N. and longitude 52° 59' 20" \V. The Cape
appears from a distance of a bluish color, and is a steep rocky point, having 4 fatlioms close
to the shore. Somewhat less than three ((uarters of a mile N. N. E. from the extremity of
the Cape lies Cull Island, which, though small, may easily be recognized, by being of mo-
derate luMght, and elevated in the middle, making something like a rounti hat with broad
green brims, and visible 4 or 5 leagues oil, when the weather is clear; N. N. E. | E. distant
3i miles from (iull Island is the Old Harry Rock, having only IS feet water over it ; from this
a reef or baid< extenils to the N. iO. nearly three miles, having several dangerous spots upon
it, of only 18 feet and 3 or 4 fathoms; the outer edge of this danger is called the Young
Harry, and lies in latitude 48" 10' N., and longitude 52° 58' 15" W. ; at its northern ex-
tremity is 10 fathoms water, and a little farther olf 45 fathoms ; between the Young Harry,
and the middle ground of 18 feet, are 12, 20, and .")0 fathoms ; to the northward of the mid-
dle "-round are 60 and 40 fathoms ; to the eastward! 9 and 20 fathoms, to the southward, and
be veen it and the Old Harry, 26 and 31 fathoms ; at the north part of the Old Harry is 11
* So ciilled to distinf^uish it from a Cape of the same name situated on the aouthern part of N^ew-
foundland, near St. Mary's Bay.
22
BLUNT S AMEitlCAN COAST PILOT.
fathoms, to the westward 30 fathoms, to the S. W. 9 fathoms, anil a little further S. W. 57
fathoiti'--; abundance offish are caujiht by the boats which fre()uent this i)ank, !)Ut it is vcrv
dangerous for shipping. The sea commonly breaks over Old Harry, unless in fine weather,
and the water be very smooth, but the other part of the shoals show themselves orly in, or
immediately after, heavy pales on the shore.
In order to avoid the Old Harry, you should bring ftull Island on with the ftreon Ridfje,
which lies considerably inland ; but you must beware, for this mark will carry you too close
to the Young Harry. Vessels running alongshore, to avoid these rocks, must be careful
in keeping Cape Jionavista open with the westernmost extremity o*'a high range of land to
the southward, called the Inner Ridge; thcsedangers, together with the long ledge, called the
Flowers, already noticed, render it very imprudent for a mariner to attempt making land
hereabout in thick or boisterous weather ; indeed at any tinie, the Island of Bacalieu is the
best and safest land-fall for the stranger that is bound to any part of Bonavista Bay.
BONAVISTA BAY. — This extensive Bay is formed on the South by Cape Bonavista,
and on the north by Cape Freels; these Capes lie N. J E. and S. '^ W. from each other,
and comprehend a distance of 40 miles, between which the coast is much indented with bays
and inlets of the sea, most of which are navigable, but difficult, rocky, and dangerous. The
land, on the south, is generally high and mountainous, and the shores steep and iron-bound;
the north side is low and marshy, from which the water runs off shoal to a considerable dis-
tance ; the whole Bay abounds with small islands, and is on every side encompassed with
dangers. The harbors, sounds, and inlets, are deep, extensive, numerous, well sheltered,
and safe, but they are generally so deeply embayerl, tlie passages into them so intricate,
and the surrounding land so similar in appearance, that few, except those to whom the navu
gatioii ia fainillar, v'^ver attempt to enter them. Of those which seem to offer the best re-
fuge to strangers, who from necesity should be compelled to seek a place of shelter, the
following appear best calculated to suit his circumstances: Barrow Harbor, or Great Chance
Harbor, on the south ; and New Harbor, or Cat Cove, on the north side of the Bay ; but
the extreme narrowness of the entrance to New Harbor is a great impediment, and renders
Cat Cove the most to be preferred.
PORT BONAVISTA, or Bonavista Harbor, lies within and about 3J miles to the south-
eastward of Cape Bonavista, and vessels intending to rendezvous there, may either pass to
it, be. ween Gull Island and the cape, or between Gull Island and the Old Harry Rock, or
to the northward of the Young Harry altogether; if the former, between Gull Island and
Bonavista, the passage is about three quarters of a mile wide, and both the Cape and Island
Bteep to, having 4 fathoms water close to each side, and 16 or 18 fathoms mid-channel; but
it will be advisable not to go too near to the Gull Island, on account of a rock underwater,
which lies about 300 yards off the S. E. part of the Island. Having passed through this
channel, and finding yourself to the westward of the Cape, you will see Green Island distant
about half a mile from the Cape ; large vessels commonly leave this island on their larboard
side, in their passage to Port Bonavista, going between (^reen and Stone Islands ; the chan-
nel is full one mile and a quarter wide, and with 12, 16, and 18 fathoms water in it, and no
danger whatever, except a sunk rock of 3 fathoms water, which lies about 200 yards to the
N. K. of Green Island ; or they may go to the westward of Stone Island, and run on south-
erly until they open the points of the Harbor, and having passed Moses Point, sail to the
southward of the Swerry's Rocks ; these are always visible, and liave no passage between
them and the Point here they mcay anchor in 10 or 8 fathoms.
The Inner passage, between Cape Bonavista and (ireen Island, is frequently attempted by |
small vessels; the channel is in some parts narrow, and the ground foul ; about a mile to
the. S- Eastward of the Green Island is the ledge of red rocks; you may go between these
andthe land into Red Cove ; there are 6 fathoms water, and in the Cove 4;;, 4, and 3 fathoms ;
but the ground is all foul; there is a passage also to the southward of these rocks, and be-
tween them and Western Head, in which are 6 fathoms. A little to the eastward of West^
eru Head there is a small rock under water, it lies about a cable's length from the shore,
and the sea commonly breaks over it, but boats can go between it and the shore. To the
southward is Red Head or Point, and further on is Moses Point; between these is another
opening, called Bayley's Cove ; you may, in case of extreme necessity, run in here and
anchor, but the ground is foul and rocky throughout; there was on the north side of this
Cove a stage for fishing. Moses Point is the northern point of Bonavista Bay ; this place
is a very eligible situation for carrying on the fishery, but it is so open to the weather, that
with N. Westerly gales, following a continuance of strong winds from seaward, the waves
break right athwart the harbor's mouth, and sometimes the whole of the fishing boats
founder at their anchors, and not unfrequently many of their stages are destroyed. Ves-
sels during the summer months commonly moor under Swerry Head in 8 or 10 fathoms ;
but even liere, and in every other part of this Harbor, the ground is so rocky and uneven,
that you will be obliged to buoy up your cable.
BLACK HEAD BAY. — This is a wide and deep bay, comprehended between Black
Head to the eastward, and Southern Head to (he westward. Black Head bears from Cape
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
23
Bonavista W. S. W. l S. distant 5^ miles ; Southern Head bears from C'ape BonaviytaW.
J N. distant lU miles;" and IMack Head and Soutiiern Head hear (Voni eaeli other E. 8. K.
J S. and W. N. W. ? N. heins; nearly 8 miles apart: on the western side of Blark Head
Bav is KINO'S COV'K, distant about 4 miles from Southern Head ; this also is a fishinf;
establishment, but still more objectionable, as a place of shelter, than Uonavista, for this is
directly open to seaward, and the .i^round is all foul.
KEELS. — This is another establishment for the fisheries, and situated in one of the
tfoves about midway between Sottthern and Western Heads; between these two heads are
four other coves, but neither Keels nor any of these coves, are fit or good places for anchor-
age, especially with ships of burthen.
From Western Head the land bends W. S. \V. \ S. and lertds to numerous coves, bays, and
anus of the sea, most of which have deep water, and places of anchorage ; we shall here
enumerate the i)rinci[)al of these, with their respective situations, but, as many of them are
too dee])ly embayed for general navigation, we shall nt)t extend our directions to a minute
or particular description of them all, but confine ourselves to such only as are situated in
promirtent parts of the Bay, and are mostly fitted for general use, and commonly fre(|uented.
We have already stated, that from Western Hf*ad the land turns W. S. Westward, and
leads to Plate C'ove, Indian Arm, and Southward Bay.
PLATF^ COVE is situated on the coast about 7.', miles distant from Western Head ; its
entrance between Arrow I'ointand Plate Cove Head is three quariers of a mile wide, from
whence it bends in more than a mile to tlie southward ; at its Eaiuern extremity, is a run of
fresh water, but the bottom is foul and rocky, it is therefore not much frefjuentefl.
LXDIAN AR.M lies about S. W. by W.' from Plate Cove head, distant .'5 miles; it is a
narrow inlet running in nearly S. W. about two miles, and terminates in a rivulet of fresh
water.
SOUTHWARD BAY is se))arated <"''^ I',''ian Arm only by a narrow neck of land ;
this is an extensive branch of th> jca, ' . .ra; ;'0 between Red Head and Kate's Harbor
Head, is a full mile wide, with :>i), HO, i * ;nd 90 fathoms water, mid-channel ; from hence it
bends to the S. Westward 7^ miles, becoming narrower as you advance, but with deep wa-
ter and no danger. On the western side there is an opening called Hayes Cove, it lies about
2 miles from Kate Harbor Head.
B.\CON-BONE RO("K. — It will be proper here to remark, that vessels intending to seek
either of these places, must beware of the liacon-bone Rock, a danger of only 18 feet water
over it; this lies W. \ N. distant one mile from Western Head, and directly in the fair
way of the navigation. To avoid this danger, do not shut in Southern Head until Little
Denier comes on with the outer Shag Island.
KATE HARBOK lies to the westwani of Plate Cove ; its entrance is three quarters of
a mile wide, and the Harbor runs in about one mile and a quarter ; the depth of water is
36, 29, and 27 fathoms mid-chan.iel, decreasing as you advance to the further end : there
is a rock under water ort" its entrance with 7, 8, and 9 fathoms round it ; this lies nearer to
Kate's Head, but there is a passage between them, and also a still wider channel on the
western side of the rock.
SWF^ET BAY. — This is another extensive inlet, lying to the westward of Kate Harbor;
its entrance is between Cutler's Head and Chance Point ; and leads also to Maidenhair Cove,
and Little and Great Chance Harbors. Sweet Bay is the easternmost inlet ; which having
entered, and ])assed Cutler's Head, which is rocky and steep to, you will see Turfpook
Island, it is small and narrow ; about half a mile to the S. W. of this is Woody Island, and
between them a rock under water; there is a passage ^n either side of these, and when you
get beyond Woody Island, the bay becomes about three quarters of a mile wide, with 60 fa-
thoms water, uiid-way ; advancing still further you will observe several islands in your pas-
sage ; there is also a rock under water on your starboard side, three quarters of a mile beyond
Woody Island ; it lies abreast of a little island which is mid-channel; further on is Wolf
Island, between which and the luain there is no passage ; off this lies Gooseberry Island, be-
tween which and Wolf Island there is 30 fathoms water, but the channel is narrow, and that
on the eastern side of (iooseberry Island is much wider; Sweet Bay here divides into two
branches, that to the eastward is called the S. W. arm, and has directly before its entrance
Hunt's Island, the channel to the eastward of which has 10, 12, and 14 fathoms water, and
that to the westward 7 and 9 fathoms, you will then see on yottr starboard side a small island,
you may pass it on either side, and having so done, will drop into 24, 22, and 20 fathoms
water; the head of the arm is foul and rocky. The N. W. arm is divided from the S. W.
arm a little below Hunt's Island, and at the ftirther end of Wolfs Island is nearly a mile
wide, from whence it runs S. Westerly 3[ miles, with good depth of water, and clear of
dangers ; at the bottom is a sandy beach and a small rivulet.
GREAT CHANCE HARBOR.— This is an excellent and C( ivsnient place of anchor-
age, the entrance to which lies W. J S. distant 10^ miles from Western Head. Vessels sail-
ing for this place, should recollect the mark already given to avoid the Bacon-bone Rock ;
having passed this danger, you may sail on directly for the harbor, the course will be W.
24
Blum's AAfRiiicAX coast pilot.
y North, until you get uhieast ol' Chance Point; you will now guard ajjainst a sunken rock
at tlie .southern part of the entnitice, wiiich has only 10 I'eet water over it; to avoid ami jjo
clear of tlii:s danger, be carcliil not lo shni in tlie westward Mustard-i)o\vl Isiar.d with tlie
eastern oiw. ; tliese are sitnatedat tin; larho in! side of tlie channel : having passed the eastern
island, stand boldly in, a|)proailiinjj; eacli sid(! as nearly as you like, and anch ny where
above the narrows in from 1 1 lo "j lathonis, the j^round is yood and holds well ; yo i ill lie shel-
tered from all weather, and may procure wood and waier with j^reat I'acility. Chance Point
and Cutler's Head are both siei.'p to; oil' the former, and dirc(!tly in a line between the
southern part of Loii;; Islands, tiiere is a spot of srroiind wii!i only 7 (athoins water; during
heavy gales from the seaward this will show itself by the sea breaking over it, but in line
weather it is not dangerous. N. E. a little Northerly, distant almost one; mile, is the Chance
(iull Hock, steep to, and always visible : to the westward is Deer Island, one mile and atpiarter
long but narro v; there is a good channel between it and the main to Chandler's Reach.
CHANDLER'S REACll is the channel leading to (ioose Hay and Clode Sound; the
course through which is W. i S. which, from the N. W. point of Deer Island, will take you
to Connecting Point; this is the point of the peninsula that divides the tornu-r from the latter.
GOOSE IJAY runs in S. Westerly, about 7 J miles, and by kee|)inL; in mid-chamiel you
will meet with no danger, but have 47, -10, and .Jd I'lthoms water, until, having passed Lub-
bers Hole, the depth decreases to 1'2, l;{, 10, and H fathoms, when you will see a small
island, situated to the westward of Coose Head; behind and to the westward of this, yon
may anchor in from 4 to 7 fathoms, or furtlier to tlu' southward in 5,', fathoms; in most of
these inlets you will lie |)erfectly sale, and entirely land-lockud ; fresh water and wood are
pleiS'iful, and cusily obtained.
CLODK SOUx'^D is a fine branch of the sea, running in from Chandler's Reach full 00
miles; it has many places of very good anchorage, and without any ilanger ; vessels may
find perfect safety on the northern shore, at Rrown's Cove, or further in at Long Cove, or
Platter Cove; or on the southern shore, at IJiuiyan's ami Love ('oves; or, passing the
1 latter Rocks, and steering westwaril, at Freshwater Cove ; the mid-cliamiel has alt the
way deep water, and there jiie no rocks except near the shores.
LION'S DEX. — This is an opening lyiiiLT at the N. W. end of Chandler's Reach; to
enter which you must sail to the northward of the Deer and Cluster Islands, and [lass tlie
narrows, which is about one tliird of a mile wide, and has 21 fathoms water in it; having
passed the entrance about one mile, there is a sunken rock, round which are 4, 5, and ')
fathoms; you may then perceive the inlet to br;uich oil" into two divisions, that to the N. W.
is very narrow, and has a rocky islei at its entrance; but that which runs to the S. \V. is
broader, and has 11, li, and 10 fathoms water in it; it runs in from the sunken rock about
IJ mile, and at its further end becomes shoal, narrow, and rocky.
THE LONG LSLANDS are 4 in number, having narrow channels between theui, some
of which are encumbered with rocks, and dangerous; the eastern island is the largest and
broadest, the next to it is the longest, the two western ones are smaller and narrower ; they
form the northern boundary of (he passage from Western Head to Chandler's Reach; and
also the southern boundary to Swale Tickle and Newman's Sound. 0(f the N. Eastern
point of the largest Long Island, lies a sunken rock ; it is close to the land, and therefore may
easily be avoided; this point bears from Western Head nearly W. by N. distant G miles.
NEWMAN'S SOUND. — This is a large arm of the sea, running in W. by N. having
at its entrance Swale Island, which is nearly 4 J miles long, and not one broad in the widest
part. This divides the entrance into two channels: the southern passage is calleil the
Swale Tickle, and the northern one goes by the general name of Newman's Sound. To
sail from abreast of the W^estern Head into the Swale Tickle, you must steer W. N. W. i W.
To sail from abreast of the Bonavista (jiiU Island, steer W. N. W. ^ ^^^- -^ miles, and it
will carry you a little to the southward of Little Swale Island, and in the fairway of the
passage : but in advancing through this channel there are several obstructions, and the jjas-
sages from thence into Newman's Sound are so narrow, that it will always be advisable to
go to the northward of the Great Swale Island. To do this, having rounded the Gull Isl-
and, steer W. N. W. ^ W. '27 or 28 miles; you will then have the sound open, and can
])roceed accordingly. It is full l\ mile wide, and extends in nearly a N, by W. direction
from the N. E. point of Swale Island 11 miles, having several places of good anchorage.
Those on the southern shore are South i3road Cove, Minchin's Cove, and Stanford Cove.
SOUTH lUtOAD COVE is situated two miles and a half beyond the western point of
Swale Island, and is a place of ijreat safety ; the passage in is to the S. Westward, and you
will ride well sheltered in 10 fathoms, free from any danger: there is a small island at the
entrance, which you will leave on your larboard side.
MINCHIN'S COVE is to the westward ; to go tp this |)lace, there is a long narrow point
of land running out to the northward, which you will round^wttu ruing southerly, the Cove
will appear open : here you will lie in h fathoinS, opposite a^WiPy laeach. To the westward is
Mount Stanford, oil* tlie point of which lies a small island, reaching halfway over the passage,
making the channel in this part very narrow ; the best course through, is to the eastward of
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
tliiH ishivl, in 9 fiillioiiis ; here an opening appears to the eastward, calltd Buckley's Cove,
(it lor small vcshcIs : the coast now win(lu)^ to the westward, forms a broad bay, with 20,
•JO, and -'7 fathoms water in it, free from any danger, and siiallowinfr on earh side towards
the sjiores. At the S. Western part of this is Stanl'ord Cove, liaving a sandy beach, the
ai)|)rua(;h towards wiiich shallows gradually.
'I'lieanchoraijes on the northern shore are. North Hroad Cove, Great and Little Happy
Adventure Coves, and Jkirrow Harbors; IJarrow Harbor is tolerably safe, and the most con-
venient hr.rbor on the south side of IJonavista J5ay ; it is situated on the southern side of
die peinnsula which divides Newman's Sound from Salvage JJay, and is formed by three
|;irt;e islands, Keat's, Goodwin's, and Kichard's Islands; that i)art between Goodwin's Island
and the main is the entrance, aljout .JOO yards wide, and not difficult <j(' access. Th.e harbor
is a full mile in lens;tli, the outer part is rocky ami not well sheltered, but the inner part is
coiuidetely land-locked, and has good holding ground. Vessels taking their departure from
Gull Island, JJonavista, should steer N. W. by W. ,' W. about M2 miles. IJut if coming
from the northward, tln-ir course from the Eastern (iooseberry Kock, towards Barrow Har-
l)or, will be S. W. { W. 18 miles; Goosebjrry Kock appears just above water. In this
course they will have to avoid tiie Malone Rock and Ledge, the latter being a shoal, lying
S. 4 W. distant (uie mile from the rock, which is always above water : this shoal has never
less than 4 fai horns over it, so that, in line weatiier, no danger whatever is to be apprehended.
Ill sailing on, and approaching Little Uenier Island, which is almost opjiosite the harbor's
iiKiiUli, you must be particularly careful of the Outer Kock, lying N. 'l W. uf Denier, dis-
tant three (|uarier.s of a mile ; this has only 4 and () feet upon it, but fortunately the sea con-
stantly breaks over it, thereby |)ointing out its situation, and enabling the mariner to guard
against, and steer clear of the danger. Having reached the Little Denier, it will be better to
goon its northern side, for between Little Denier and Kichard's Island there lies a danqjerous
reef of rocks, called the Brandishes ; these extend nearly in a line, but at various distances,
almost half way over the ciiannel ; upon these rocks are from I'J to 17 feet, with narrow
channels of 7 and 8 fatlioms between them; to navigate this passage, therefore, requires a
pilot. To clear the Brandishes, you should keep Wedge Point a little open to the south-
ward of Smoky Ridge, which is a range of high lands at the top of the harbor, until you
bring Broom [lead on with the Middle Shag Island ; the passage then will be open, and
without ol)struction, until you get near to Wedge Point; off wjiich only 70 yards, lies a
sunken rock, with 8 feet water: you may then sail up Pudner's Cove, until you are entirely
shut in from the sea, then you can anchor in from 10 to 18 fathoms. Some vessels prefer
anchoring in Garland's Creek, but without running well up, the ground is foul. The land
about {{arrow Harbors is higher than the neighboring shores, and, consequently, may be
the more readily recognized by its projection.
SANDY COV'E lies further up Newman's Sound, and has good anchorage; it may
readily be known, having the only sandy beach on the north sideof the sound; there is no
danger in entering, and it is perfectly safe, the depth of water being from 10 to 20 fathoms.
In sailing to this place, and kee|)ing along the northern shore, between Barrow Harbor and
Sandy Cove, you will meet with a rocky islet, called the Half-way Ilock; it is steep to, and
has 4 fathoms close to it ; there is also a deep water channel between it and the main, but
keep outside, and pass to the southward of it, and there will be no danger.
GRKAT AND LITTLE ADVENTURE COVES— These are two snug little coves,
lying about three quarters of a mile above Sandy Cove, and on the same side of Newman's
Sound ; but from the narrowness of their entrances they arc fit only for small vesbels. Be-
tween 'lese coves, and off a pointof land which separates them, lies a sunken rock, about
80 yards from the shore, with only 4 t'eet over it. Olfthe entrance to Great Adventure Cove,
lies Sydney Island; the passage in is to the northward of this island, for between the is-
land and Harbor Head, there is no thoroughfare.
NORTH BROAD COVE.— The entrance to this place lies one mile and three quar-
ters from Harbor Head, and is on the northern shore ; it is a convenient and well sheltered
anchorage, and may i)e easily known by a round island lying at its western side; this is
nan.ed Black Duck Island. Sailing into the Cove you should keep the island on board un-
til you make a tickle* between it and the western shore, to avoid a sunken rock at its eastern
side ; after which, it is advisable to keep as close as possible to the eastern shore, for there
is a dangerous rock lying mid-channel ; being inside this rock, you may anchor in from 10
to 25 fathoms, muddy ground.
In advancing further up Newman's Sound, there are some other dangerous rocks, lying
off the northern shore ; one of these is called the Shag Rock, and lies three quarters of a
mile beyond Black Duck Islet; and one mde further on is Hall's Rock; both these are
under water, and distant about a cable's length from the land ; they have 4 and 5 fathoms
close to them, and a passage between them and the shore of 6 and 7 fathoms : therefore, in
sailing up Newman's Sound, the northern shore should always have a good berth. Keep
nearly half a mile off, and you will avoid them alU-
* " Tickle," a narrow passage between islands tncrrocks,
86
HLUNt's AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
i ,i
I' i
i
SALVACrK BAY lies on tlie northern side of the pronumtory which dividp'^ it from
Newiniiii'."* Sound ; it lias scvcnd runs of fresh wiiter within it, hut no place of ijood sheUer.
DAMiNAHLK IIAKI50II hcs to tlic norlhwind of .S;dvii«e JJiiy ; between them are
several Hiiiall ishinds and rocks, tlie latest of tlicse is named tjie Bai<er'8 Loaf, and is a nar-
row island, al)oiii three(|narter.s()f a mile Um^:. To ^o to tliis place from (rull Island, Honavis-
ta, yon should steer W. N. \V. .' N. ahout 7 leaj^nes, and round the Shaju Islands; |)roceed
tlience to the northward of the IJaKcr's l^oaf, or steer N. \V. by W. from the (iull toward*
tlie Shi|) Island, which may readily ho known by a rcmarkablt- bald point, like a sujE:ar loaf;
then W. ^ S. Irom Ship Island, 5i miles, will brine; you to the entrance of Damnable Har-
bor; this i)lace is well adapted for the recejnion of sninll vessels, but its very narrow en-
trance disqualifies it for ships of burthen. There is a rock oH' the southern part of the
entrance, and another off the northern side of the island, \fhich lies in the middle of the
harbor ; there is jjood anchornge all round the island in 4 and 5 fathoms, sandy bottom.
MORRIS'S COVK. — This lies on the north side of Morris's Island, and is considered
to be a safe anchora<,'e. In sailing; for this place, keep Ship Island well on board, on ac-
count of a dangerous reef, which extends from Flat Island nearly two thirds of the wav to-
wards Ship Island, on some parts of which there are not above 17 or IH feet; proceed there-
fore to the ncnthward of Shij) Island, jrassinf: at not more than half a mile distance; and
when yon have t;otten well inside, avoid shutting in Lackinjzton Rock with Varket Island ;
this latter will be known by its ap|)eariniu; like two singular hummocks, on account (»f there
being several clusters of rocks belwe«!n Ship and llorsechop Islands ; eteer for Varket un-
til you get abreast of Laekington Rock, then keep Lackington Rock on the n(»rthern ex-
tremity of Shi,) Island, until tlie Varket bears north, in order to cl'jarthe two sunken rocks
off the end of Morris Island ; you may then steer directly for the Cove, which you can en-
ter without fearing obstruction, and anchor in any part thereof, in 26 to 5 fathoms ; but tJie
western side of the Cove is to be jireferred.
BAY OF FAIR AN I) F ALSK. — This place may contain several good anchorages, but
it is so filled with small islands and rocks, that no description we could give would be of any
tise to the mariner. A cluster of large islands extends off the frontage of this bay, full '/o
miles, or so far as Offer (iooseberry Island; between these arejjassages innumerable, with
deep water; there is also a wide channel, running from Fair and False Hay, and Morris Is-
land, to the northward ; this leads to Hloody Bay, wliich then turns westward, and is divided
into various branches, forming the N. W. arm, the middle arm, and the north east arm ; this
latter being a peculiar and extensive channel, running in one direction, southward, almost
to Newman's Sound : and in another, almost to Damnable Harbor ; all these are navigable,
and afl'ord places of good anchorage, and plenty of both wood and water. There is also an
open strait from Bloody Bay to the eastward; through Bloody and Cottel's Reaches and
out to the northward of Offer (iooseberry Island. Other channels branch olT to the ncuth-
ward frcun Bloody and Cottel's Reaches, and between the Lakeinan's Islands, running into
Pit's Sound, Locker's and Content Reaches, and thence to Freshwater Bay : within these,
and on the northern shore, are Hare, Locker's, Trinity, Indian, and many other lesser bays,
coves, and inlets, abounding with good anchorages, and calculated to afford shelter for ship-
ping of all descriptions, in oases of necessity : these are, at present, but little known, mikI
frequented only by the constant traders ; we shall, therefore, proceed to those which are the
usual places of resort, and are better situated for the luirpose of fishing.
Vessels coming from the south-eastward, ami bound to the northward, for New Harbor,
Greenspond Tickle, Cat Cove, the N. W. arm, or anchorages adjacent, frequently take their
departure from Cape llonavista; in which case, their course will be l\. by W. to clear the
Eastern Rock, which lies K. S. F. distant one mile and a quarter from Oiler (iooseberry
Island. From thence they should steer N. ^ K. to Copper Island, at the mouth of (Ircens-
pond Tickle; here pilots may frequently be obtained to conduct you to this, or any of the
adjoining anchorages; there is good holding ground between (4reenspond Isl'.ind and the
main ; but the water is generally so deej), that a vessel is liable to be drifted on shore in the
act of weighing; nor is there sufficient room to veer out a lengthened cable, in heavy galea
from the S. W. to which (piarter it is much exposed.
Ships coining from the eastward, or round Cape Freels, must be careful to go clear of the
Charge Rock, which lies S.F. 'l S. two and a half miles from (tull Island off Cape Freels; this
has only G feet water over it, and is circumscribed by a large spot of rough fishing ground, with
from 8 to .'50 fathoms u|)nn it. From the (nill Island of Cape Freels, you may run immediate-
ly for the Stinking Islands, taking care not to open Cape Freels to the eastward of the former;
this will carry you inside the danger. You should keep a good look-out for the mitl-rocks,
which appear just above water, and lie two miles N. E. by E. | E. from the Stinking Islands,
but vessels not bound up the bay, are strictly recommended to keep outside of them all ;
for should the weather become suddenly thick and foggy, a circumstance by no means un-
usual, more especially with an easterly wind, you will run great hazard of getting bewilder-
ed among the innumerable rocks, which are scattered so profusely about this part of the
eoait, and fi
when the m
ingly high o
distant aboi:
wcallier, alt
till! trpinend
settled, and
Having n
yon may, wi
until you br
outside oft!
rock has ;) f
will now alti
starboard bo
inency of th^
until you bri
marble, to bi
NKW IL
the Shoe Co'
of its narrow
CAT CO
Brown Fox
and you will
is Cat Cove ;
that is covert
some general
must go rout
may run on,
may anchor i
quarter being
except off the
more than 1(1
NORTH '
to Cape Free
surround it, ;i
similarity of ;
greatest ilangi
'2"2 feet over i
this island yo
fine weather,
waves beat ov
somewhat hig
cept about tli
fly Island to t
each otlier; t
land; it is ad\
channel, exac
over it ; but i
be N. W. I \
ground, in fro
CREENSl
each way. A
Greenspond '1
tance, being it
dangers in goi
but it will be ;
a fair one, witj
Ships some
channel is nai
considered a ]
Copper Island
S. I S. distar
when you shu
danger; it is
shoals oft' thei
nLUNT S AMERICA?! COAST PILOT.
lies it from
itxl bhelter.
I them are
iiid is -.1 iiiir-
(I, lioir.ivis-
Is ; |)roft><'il
nil towards
sujt;ar loaf;
iriablc Har-
narrow en-
part of the
iddle of the
y bottom.
I considered
)ar(l, on ac-
the way to-
x'ced there-
stance: and
irket Island ;
unt of there
r Varket iin-
nortliern ex-
nnken rocks
yoTi can en-
ins; but the
horagps, hut
idd be of anv
< bay, fwli t'b
nerable, with
!)d Morris Is-
md is divided
ast arm ; this
ward, aiiiiost
re naviijablc,
iM'e is also an
K caches and
to the north-
running into
within these,
r lesser bays.
Iter for shij)-
known, and
hich are the
New Harbor,
tly take their
. to clear the
(Gooseberry
th of (ircens-
or any of the
tnd and the
shore in tlie
n heavy galeji
o clear of the
c Freds; this
ground, with
n iuiinediate-
jf the former;
le mid-rocks,
iking Islands,
of them all ;
io means un-
ting bewilder-
is part of the
eoa^t, and from whidi neither compass nor chart can extricate you. In the winter months,
wJKMi tiie north-easterly gales are generally heavy and continuous, tlio sea breaks exceed-
iimlv high overseveral s|)ots of the Stinking Hanks, which lie iv by N. .', N. from the islands,
distant about 'J^ miles ; in two places there are only 7 tailmnis over tliest; banks ; and in such
weather, although a ship wr)uld not strike, she would be in great dau'^er of (nu;idering in
(he tremendous sea which would then frequently break over her ; but when the weather is
settled, and the sea smooth, they are by no mean.- dangerous.
Having rounded the Stinkin2 Islands, and wishing to sail into New Harbor, or Cat Cove,
you may, with propriety, steer S. W. by W. | \V. directly for the ( )ller (looseberry Island,
until you bring Pouch and Flower Islands to touch eachother; you will then be two miles
outside of the three rocks, which lie H mile to tiie southward of Flower Island : the outer
rock has IJ fathoms over it, the middle rock 14 feet, and the inner rock only 11 feet. You
will now alter your course to W. | S. keeping the white face of (Chalky Hills a little on the
gtarboard bow, which will take you clear of (Jopper Island dangers; then, should the incle-
mency of the weather prevent your getting a ])ilot on board, you can continue this course
until you bring Shoe Cove Point, which may be distinguishcil by its semblance to white
marble, to bear N. W. J- W. then shape your course W. N. W. for Indian Bay.
NKW HARBOR is situated on the eastern side of Indian 15ay, about two miles from
the Shoe Cove Point; this place, during (sisterly winds, will be (juite inaccessible, on account
of its narrow entrance ; in this case, you must proceed onward, about ("our miles, for Cat (Jove.
CAT COVE. — In order to reach this place, you will proceed between Silver Hair and
Brown Fox Islands and the main ; and as you approach the latter, the cliannel narrows,
and you will have a narrow island on your starboard side; this is Cat Island, behind which
is Cat Cove; you will have no difficulty in distinguishing this island, . it beini; the only part
that is covered with livk wooos, for the surrounding forests have all betm destroyed by
some general conflagration. Olf the upper part of Cat Island lie two high green rocks ; you
must go round these, for the waier is too shoal to go between them: liaving done so, you
may run on, until you get some distance inside the upper point of the island, when you
may anchor in from 5 to 13 fathoms, with a hawse o\n)n to the N. W the winds from that
quarter being most heavy and s(|ually. In working in, you may stand close to either shore,
except off the point of the island, as there is a sunken rock within 100 yards of it, with not
more than 10 feet water over it.
NORTH WEST ARM, — This is situated on the main, and is the place of safety nearest
to Cape Freels; but its entrance is very dilficnlt, on account of the number of islands that
surround it, and these islands are almost undistinguishable one from the otlier, from their
similarity of appearance. In coming from the southward for the North West Arm, the
greatestdanger you will have to encounter, is the Northern Rock, which never has less than
2.2 feet over it ; this lies N. E. distaiU one mile and three cpiartors from the Copper Island ;
this island you will easily recogni/,e by its having no wood u|)on it, and by its height. In
fine weather, and a smooth sea, vessels pass over it in (lerfect safety ; but in hard gales, the
waves beat over it incredibly high. To avoid it, be careful to ojK'if Fool's Island, which is
somewhat higher, and more prominent than the rest, and which is covered with trees, ex-
cept about the suumiit, to the westward of the Western Pond Rock, until you get Butter-
fly Island to touch the inner part of Flower Island, or until Puffin and Copper Islands touch
each other; then, leaving the Pond Rocks on your starboard side, steer in for Fool's Is-
land ; it is advisable to keep this island well on board, for there is a sunken rock, lying mid-
channel, exactly between it and Partridge Island Kocks: this danger has only 18 feet water
over it ; but no mark can be given to avoid this rock. The course then up the arm will
be N. W. I W^. and so soon as you get inside of Odd Island, you may anchor on muddy
ground, in from 7 to •) fathoms. Fool's Island Hill bearing S. E. to S. E. by S.
(iREENSPOND TICKLE. — Greenspond is a square island, about a mile in breadth
each way. A reef of rocky islets runs of!" its southern part all the way to Puffin Island.
Greenspond Tickle lies on the south-eastern part of the island, and is of very little impor-
tance, being incapable of receiving any vessel whose draught of water exceeds 14 feet : thn
dangers in going to this place, are the Northern Rock, tho Cook-room and Harbor Rocks ;
but it will be almost impossible to get into this harbor with an adverse wind, or even with
a fair one, without the assistance of a pilot.
Ships sometimes run in, and anchor between Greenspond Island and the main, but the
channel is narrow, the water is very deep, and it lies too open to the S. W. winds to bo
considered a jjlace of safety. In order to sail into it you must get to the westward of the
Copper Islands; in so doing, be careful of the Midsummer Rock, which lies nearly W. by
S. I S. distant one mile from Copper Island, and has only -5 and 6 feet over it, observe,
when you shut in Silver Hare Island by Shoe Cove Point, you will be within side of the
danger; it is also necessary 'to give Newal's and Ship Island a wide berth, an the v/ateit
shoals oil' them to a cuueiderable distauce<
/
/28
BLUNT 8 AMEItlCAN COAST PILOT.
I
i
CAPE FIIEELS TO THE STRAIT OK UELLE liSLE.
CAPE FREELS is funnpd of tliirr points, tlie Soiitlj Hill, tlif North IJill, and tiic Mid.
die, or Cape Freeis: there are numy shoals and rocky dangers about tlieni all, llieroftire a
uide berth should be ^i\cn them at all times. (Jver these points is some hi^h land, coin-
uionly called the Cape Kid^e, which is visible at a considerable distance.
FUNK ISLAND. — N. .04 ' E. from (ape Kreels, distant '27 miles, lies the Kunk Islnnd.
This is little more than a sterile rock, and cannot be seen turlher than at the distance of in or
12 miles; but it will always be distinguished by the ^reat nundier ol'bird.s which contiiai-
ally hover over it. About 'JOG yards north of Kunk Island is a lariie rock above water, ami
N. W. by W. 180 yards from this are still lari;er rocks ; they are all barren, and only ili«
resort of sea birds, that iidiabit and breed there ; bet\v<'en these rocks are It^, .'57, and 4-2 la-
thoms water, with a clear passage, but between tlie eastern rock and Kunk Island there is
a dangerous simkeii rock, ol' only 10 feet water, over which the sea jjeneraliy breaks: near
this sunken rock arc 14 and lb fathonts, and between it and Kunk Island .'!(), 'Jo, 5b, .^8, 'J4,
and 17 fathoms; olfthe western point of Kunk Island are some rocks, and at its eastern
part a sort of creek with .'> fathoms in it. It is also rei)urted that a ledge of rocks lies S.
W. from Kunk Island, distant about 7 miles.
DUREL'S LEDdE. — This is a dangerous reef, and said to lie about 7 lea'^ues N. W. by
N. from Kunk Island ; the sea breaks over it continually; and nearly N. W. by W. distant
3 leagues from laurel's Ledije, is another danger named Cromwell's Ledj^e, it is supposed
to bear E. S. E. 'l E. distant 10 or 16 miles from Little Kof:o Islands.
N. N. W. I W. from Cape Kreels, distant b\ miles, is tlu' Outer Cat Island ; it is con-
nected to the main by a sandy reef, w hich is impassable for ship))inL', and forms the southern
point of Deadinan's IJay : a little before you come to the ( )uter ( "at, you will see a remark-
able hill called the Windmill Hill, and near it the Little Cat Island. In sailing to or troni
Cape Kreels the shore should have a good berth, although there are soundings all the way,
and they decrease gradually towards the shore. J'eadman's Bay is formed by the Outer
Cat Island to the southward, and Deadman's Point to the northward ; the soundings with-
in it are regular, and the bay without rocks, uidess close to the shore, but it is totally tin-
sheltered and open to all easterly winds.
Having passed Deadman's Point you will approach the Penguin Islands; these are 2 in
number and bear from Ca])e Kreels N. N. W. | W. distant 14 and 15 n\iles ; between them
the passage is clear, with from 5i to 7 fathoms water, but vessels should not go within them
and the shore, for there are several rocky reefs which render it jjarticularly dancerruis.
RAGGED HARBOR lies to the N. westward of the Penguins, distant 6^ miles; the
main land hereabout is low and sandy, and the passage from the eastward rocky and danger-
ous; it should therefore not be attempted by a stranger, or without a j)ilot. To tlie north-
westward is Ladle Cove Island, and 7 miles beyond that is Rocky Bay. At its entrance, wliidi
is wide, lie 3 islands, Noggin Island, Green Island, and further south is White Island ; you
may pass between each of these in 7 fathoms; between Rocky Point and (ireeu Island in 7,
8, 13, or 10 fathoms; and between Green and White Islands in 13 and 14 fathoms; between
Noggin Island and the western point of the Bay there are 3,^, 7, 12, 9, and 4 fathoms ; the bot-
tom of these bavs, for there are 3 openings, is rocky, and vessels cannot go far into them.
THE WADHAM ISLANDS.— These are a cluster of islands lying to the N. westward
of Cape Freeis. They consist of 8 or 10 scattered islands, separated from each other by chan-
nels more than 1 and 2 miles wide; the largest of these is called Peckford's Island, which
is almost a mile long, lies in the direction of north and south, and bears from Cape Freeis
nearly N. by W. distani20 miles ; from its southern part towards the land about Ragged Har-
bor, there are a number of rocky islets and reefs, with channels between them, rendering the
navigation of this part extremely hazardous. N. N. W. ^ N. I5 mile from Peckford's Island
is White Island, but a passage between them should not be attempted, for there are several
small rocks lying ott'the north and north-western part of Peckford's Island, some of wliich
stretch out almost as far as White Island. N. W. by W. from Peckford's Island, about 4}
miles, is Copper Island ; Green Island lies W N. W. | N. 2i miles from Peckford's Island,
and about a similar distance S. S. E.^ E. from Copper Island; there are also some small rocks
lying off the N. W. end of Green Island, which, being visible, can always beavoided with ease.
S. W. ROCK. — This is a small detached rock above water, bearing from Peckford's Is-
land S. S. E. I E. distant 31 miles; near it are 13, 17, and 21 fathoms ; about N. N. E.
distant 2 miles from the S. W. Rock, is a small flat island ; and a little more to the eastward
is Offer Island; this is the most easterly of all the Wadham Islands. There is yet a rock
to describe, which lies E. S. E. ^ E. from Ofl'er Island, distant about one mile and a half;
this is dangerous, and must have a berth in passing either north or south of it.
THE FOGO ISLANDS lie to the N. westward of the Wadham Islands ; Great Fogo
is a large island, 4 leagues long and 9 miles broad ; off its S. western point lie the Indian
BLUNTfl AMEUICAN COAST PILOT.
29
•1 till' Mid-
ihcipfoie a
land, cuin-
ink Fslnnd.
!('«■ of Khir
li coiitinii-
wiiirr, and
1(1 only llin
, inid 4'J la-
id tlifif is
caks: near
56, HH, 'J4.
its ensfcni
>cks lies S.
9 N. AV. I.y
W. distant
IS supposed
; it is ron-
ic soiitlu'iii
e a reniark-
; to or troiii
ill the way,
\- tlie Outer
idiii<;s witli-
totally iin-
ese are 2 in
wccri tlicm
itliiii them
iicerons.
miles; the
iiid ilaiicer-
the north-
iice, wliicli
sland; you
Island in 7,
IS ; between
lis; thebot-
o them.
westward
er by chan-
and, which
ape Freels
agged Har-
dering the
ird's Island
arc several
e of wliich
1, abotil 4}
I's Island,
small rocks
J with ease.
jkford's Is-
N. N. E.
le eastward
yet a rock
ind a half;
rreat Fogo
the Indiau
lHlaiHN;aii(l N. K. by N. .1 ] mlleM frniii the body of Oreat Koj^oaro the Llttln Vog^o Islandn}
iiiiMieroiis other rocks and Nriiall islandn are Ncattered about.
'I'liis harbor is very secure, with i;ood anchorasje in any part, above the Harbor Rock;
it has two Tickles, so called, in Ncwfoudlaiid, ami intended to describe narrow passauesbe-
iHccii islands and rocks; these may be entered with any wind except from the South to the
S. W. which wind blows out of both. 'l"o enter the Kastern Ticikle, you should borrow on
Kai^s Island, keeping the extreme of Fofjo Island nearly open of Lane's Island, until (iap-
pys Islanil comes open of Simon's Island, you will then clear the shoals (d' Filly's Point.
To avoid the Harbor Rock, brin;^ Slade and (Jox's Fla<;stalf on with the eastern chimney
(if ihi'ir dwelliii'i house; it will be necessary to uet this mark on before Roafswain's Island
(loses Rullock's I'oinf. In coming (rom the westward it is advisable to make free with
I'di^o Island, in order that you may disiiimuish the small islands that form the 'i'ickle, which
if passed with westerly winds can m^ver be refrained, owiny ti, tlie constant set there is to
llie eastward, [lavinn; jiassed Little Motion, keep the extreme point of the head over the
Niirrows I'oint, until you get past Rullock's Point, when ihe above directions will clear all
the harbor's danjiers.
FOR'rrXK IIARROR.— ThisIIarbot lies between the Ray of Exploits and New Ray;
it is good when attained ; but the entrance, which is the Western Tickle, is extremely nar-
row and dangerous, on account of the high land around it ; from which all winds baOlc,
except those blowing directly in.
TlU'l'OX lIAKiioR. — The entrance to this harbor is between the great and little
Diinier Islands; in entering you will see Francis Islanil, which lias a reef running to the S.
Westward; give this a berth, but both the Dunier Islands are. bold to and free from danger.
Little Dunier Island lies S. W. three miles and a quarter from .Saulpin Rocks, on ap-
proaching which, the harbor opens ofT the high land of (ireat Dunier; its shores are ex-
ceedingly bold, and therefore it is always to be jireferred to Cut well Harbor; its great
depth of water will be avoided by ruimi-g into Inspector's or Scrub Cove, where vessels
may moor with hawsers to the trcv-'s, in perfect security.
The tides here, and also upon all the eastern coast of Newfoundland, have nearly the
same rising, the springs being about 6 feet, neaps 4 feet, but these are much influenced
by the winds.
CUTWKLL IIARROR. — This harbor has a spacious entn.nce, sufficient for the lar-
gest ship to beat in to secure anchorage, in from 10 to 5 fathoms, sand and mud : the best an-
chorage is about W. by N. distant three miles from the Southern head. The arm runs in
full one mile and a half above the Narrows, in which is abundance of wood and water, and
well adapted for heaving down and refitting vessels. At the entrance is the Fool's Cap Rock,
the marks for which are Copper Island, seen through Indian Tickle, and Mark Island on with
the White Point. To clear the Fool's Cap Rock, keejithe extremity of Southern Head,
touching the north end of Haidrix Island, until Green Ray Gull Island opens to the west-
ward of the Hag Rock. The only danger within the heads, is the rocks on the eastern shore,
and most of these are visible at half tide.
Coming from the eastward, and bound to Fogo Harbor, you must be careful to avoid the
Dean's Rock; which is a sunken rock, and lies between Joe Ratt's Point and the harbor;
steer W. N. W. tmtil Rrimstone Hill, a remarkable round mountain, appears in the centre
of the harbor; then steer for the East Tickle, which may be known by the lantern on the
top of Sim's Island, make the west side of the Tickle. Give a good berth to the point on
the starboard side, and run right up the harbo ' keeping near the south side, and you will
carry from !) to .'J fathoms through ; immediately you get round the point, steer S. W. to
avoid the Harbor Rock, and follow the directions given above for anchoring. The middle
Tickle appears the widest, but it is fit only for boats; the other two must be adopted as
best suits the wind.
Little Fogo Islands lie nearly N. E. distant 4 J^ miles from Joe Batt's Point; there are nu-
merous rocks about them, both above anu under water, making this part of the coast ex-
ceedingly dangerous ; a little to the eastward of Little Fogo is a small rock just above water,
called the N. Eastern Rock, and somewhat in this direction, distant 10 or 11 miles, is said
to lie Cioinwell's Ledge, whose exact position is not well determined, although it is consider-
ed to be extremely dangerous. Northward of Little Fogo are the Turr Rocks, and from
hence in the direction of the western side of Great Fogo Island, and the Storehouse Rocks,
the Seals Nests, Gappy and Stone Islands, the Jigger and Black Rocks, and various other
dangers, all having deep water round them, and tending to increase the difficulty of the na-
vigation.
The Island of Toulinquet lies to the westward of Fogo, and has several small islands
about it : here is situated what is called Toulinquet Bay, and to the S. Westward of Toulin-
quet Island is the Harbor of Herring Neck; this is said to be a spacious, fine harbor, and
fit for any vessels.
CHANGE ISLAND TICKLE.— This harbor is accessible when Fogo Harbor is not:
it is very secure, and has good anchorage with 6 or 7 fathoms, muddy bottom. In general
*
..'
r
30
HLIJNTS AMKRICAN COAST Pir.OT.
tCnrc-wcHxl, llidiiqli wafrr
toik ,'uiil llif 'ri)li;icc(i U|.
tlu! inlatidH nhotit it nrn low itiid iiiiirNliy, hut tlicri' \h iiltiindaiuT
is s<'nn'e. 'I'lif |ms.s;i;(c in (Vom the »M>it\v:iril is hclwcin Kiitli's
ands, the mark liciiii; iiriiristoiK- Head kopt l)i>iw)<cn Ixilli; (liis will clear all (In- daii^crit «n
the Nortlicrn Sliorc, and also oil" Skinni'i's llailxtr; (tr vtiu may Id-inm the "'" klc to the
westward hetwetii the ])oiiits ot'thc land, anil srecr directly flifdif.'li in i;reat saietv.
T()l'IJ.N(il'K'r IIAIMSOU.— Tills IkmImm is sh.ltcn'd fn. ui all winilshiit tlnise which
hlowlKitii the North and North Kasi, when, in heavy ^ales, it heconns danuerons. In t'liier-
in^i, either l»y the Kast or Western chaiHM'l, yon niiisi lake the greatest care to avoid fin-
Whit«! (iroiind, to clear wliich, you must lirint; .McsMrs. Wlade's Duellirii; House oi>en o|
Simms' Island, and keep it so, iiiifil French I lead opens throiii;!! the Kastern I'assaye. 'i'liis
is very couiinoidy eallitd linrnl Island Tickle; and shonid not lie attempted wiihont vou
are thoroughly acipiainled w ilh the navis,'alion, dv in casesoltjreat emeri^ence. The anchorai'e
is iimstly loni, hot the hesi and iiH)st seenre is ahont ') or (> lalhoms oil ( 'olhiirn's Stores-
both \vat(!r and wood is scarce. It'tiie mariner should lie InTe either early or late in the year,
JJack Harlior, which lies oli'the western side ol'ihe Talile fjaiid. will he loiind a prefe'rahhr
place tor shelter, and a lew small vessels may ride there with ninch sal'eiy ; yon may ptoieed
in on either side of (inll Island, lyiri;; with the Weslern I lead open ol' H.itrix Island, ami
the hliiir Head, or with the Kastern Sta'^e on IJalrix Island. Tlie islainls ahoiU the harlior
•of Touiintpiet are moderatidy hi^h, and honiidcd hy dark colored slate cliD's : it may readily
he known liy the (lull Island or Talile Land.
From Toidin(|uet May to Cape St. .lolm the coiiisc is N. \V. hy N. distant IJ or 13
U>a<jiies; this is a liiuli and inimed |i(iint ol' land, and may re;idily lie known liy liie small
'lii,i;h round Island to the S. Kastward, distant from the n(irtii(>rn pilch ol'tlu^ ('ajie aliuiit
2\ or 3 miles; this is calle<l the (Jnll Island, ami is the third ol'that name on this siil.i of
Newfonndiand ; perhaps it will he lietler we sliould liereat'ter distinguish this as the North-
ern or St. .John's (!idl; that near Cape !•' reels as t)ie middle orCnpe Freels (iiill, ami tlie
one lyin^,■ oil' Capo Bonavista, as the iionavista or Smith (Jiill.
Between the Kol;o Islands and Cape St. .lohn I lie charts commonly represent various deep
buys and inlets, hut their particulars arc very little known, alth()iii:h there can he littlo
doubt the (Jreat Bay, and Biver Exploits, and the JJay of Notre Dame, ali'ord many places
of good anchora;;c, and of easy access, which, when liilly explored, may hecoine hereafter
frequented, better understood, and prove hiulily lienelicial.
LA CEY. — About ."■} miles to tlie westward of Cape .Sf. .lolui is the Little Harbor or
•Cove of La Cey, to sail into which there is no dans;er wliatever, and you may anchor any
•where in from ''l to 8 fathmns; it is easy of access, and open to the N. N.W. winds, which
throw in a heavy s(?a; the best holdintj jirouiid is just wilhiii a little cove on the starboaril
-aide, in 15 fathoms, muddy bottom; biil fiiillier in the i;riiimd is not sjood.
GRKAT ANJJ LITTIJO BOUNi) ilAHBOBS.— Tlie former of these is a ijood and
convenient place for vessels engag'd in the tisliinir trade ; there is no danger in sailiiijn in or
out of it, both shores heinu hold to: the auchoiaj^e liesv.ithin the two inner points, wlierfl
vessels may ride in 4 or .5 fathoms water, secure from the weather and entirely land-liK ked ;
i)Ut Little Round Harbor, vvliich lies round a point to the N. Kastvvurd about one mile and
a half distance, is merely a Cove, and totally unlit for shippimj;.
NIPPER'S HARBOR.— This harbor "lies to the N. Eastward of (ircen Bay Island
«bout 44 miles, and is I'roiited iiy seviM-al small islands, between whicli are several chaimels;
fcut the "best and safest is between them and tlie Northern Slim-e, in which the water is very
deep and the shores hold. The harbor is rather coii'iiicd and .small, and therefore only fit to
accoininodate small vessels; hut it is the most safe and secure on the shores of ("ape St.
John, and has excellent anchorage vvitli from 7 to 14 fatlioms water; the land about it is
high and barren, but it is well supplied witli water, and may be easily distinguished by the
islands which lie off it.
PAQUET HA IIBOR.— About 5 miles N. W. by N. from Creat Round Harbor lies
Paquet Harbor; its entrinute bears from tlie channel between the Horse Islands, nearly
S.W. by S. ; it may be known by its Southern Head, which is a hi^h and rocky mountain ;
the Northern Head is somewhut lower, and tlicri! are .'3 rocky islets lying directly off its
point; both points are hold to, but a little to the southward of the ,"3 rocky islets, is a small
shoal with 2^, 3, and 4 fathoms upon it; the channel between it and these three rocks has 7,
8 and 9 fathoms, and the water across the entrance is from 8 and '), to 19 and 20 fathoms;
a similar depth continues more than a quarter of a mile in, where the Harbor divides into
two channels, the one running norihward, the other West and 8. West. The nortliernarm
is about one quarter of a mile long, and has 20, 18, and 19 fathoms at its entrance, becotninir
«hallower as you advance ; vessels running in here should keep the starboard shore on board,
for about two thirds up the channel on the larboard side, there is a rocky shoal, a small part
of which occasionally appears above water; on the other part of this shoal are from 3 feet to
4 fathoms; having passecl this shoal steer up mid channel and anchor in 5, 7, or 8 fathoms ;
the northern part near the land becomes shallow, and a rivulet here falls into the bay, which
48 said to issiie from some extensive lakes about two miles inland. The south-western chan-
nel inomewhf
(III liolll sides
mile in ; it ih
riining souiIm
elision may rei
Hill, common!
THE Holi
mul I'ape St.
li'iiljnes; thesi
riiiely higii; tl
and on the eas
sdiiie places n<
(•(ive, fit only I
(oldmi' attemp
Kolhiwing t
f,vo li<•v^■, calle
clioriige. they
M.EL'l? I J
r lint, iVom wl
ri"narl,abb> hil
excellent am h
lies alio lit 101)
Head oj.eii to
water becomes
niotily is freipi
W'lH'J'E B
('a|»e P; rtridgi
alioiit 1 1 leagii
lliib Bay or (ii;
these are liobs
I'lirwick Cove,
Ann, .lackson'
Cat Arms.
LOBSTER
having, at low
entered, you v
sail in, commo
THE SOU'
llie bay ; here
«ithiii the heai
are advanced s
em side, is a n;
water ; and wli
channel contiii
on this side oft
MIDDLE .
its entrance is ;
and, in some p
miles. To em
only for small v
between them !
WESTWA
4 miles ; here 1
of its entrance ;
moor securelv,
Wild Cove, a \
rocky and foul,
PURWICK
E. side of the I
ter; on the S,
with not more t
of White Bay,
conveniences A
Having passe
5 leagues towai
commonly calh
On returnina
miles in letigth,
lUJf.NT'rt AMF.RICA?C COAST IMI.ClT.
n
• hmmli w;i»pr
'roliiiccn U|.
tit" iliiimt-rM nri
"■' l-.U- lolllB
t (liosf wliicli
oiiM. In PiifiT-
!• to iivdid the
IdHsc opcti <ll
'ii.ss!n;c. 'IMii.s
I without you
'h(';iii(l!or;ij;e
urn's Siori's;
tc in ilif yiMr,
(I ;i pn-fcrihlc
I iiiiiy |)t(iicn|
i\ Isl.inil, and
lit lilt' hiirlior
it iii;iy rt'iidily
tiint IJ or l:i
I l>y the siniill
V. ('ii|i(! alionr
»n this sid.' ol
:is till' North-
(iiill, and the
t various d«'op
can he littln
I many phirpji
Dine hciral'ler
tli^ ilarhor or
ay anchor any
winds, wliicli
thf! slaihoard
is a ;i;ood and
II saihii^ in or
points, wlicift
laiid-lix k('(l ;
uiiu mile and
n Hay Island
ral channels;
• wali'r is vpiy
ire only fit to
s of Tape St.
11(1 alioiit it is
iiisheti by the
1 Harbor lies
lands, nearly
ky inountain;
ircctly olV its
i'ts, is a small
(■ rocks has 7,
\ 20 fathoms;
r divides into
northern arm
ice, becoming;
lore on board,
1, a small part
from 3 feet to
[>r 8 fathoms ;
he bay, which
^vestetn chan-
nfl inoniewliat narrower than the nurthern one. but in quilp free from ilaneer; thr shorcn
(III liolh sides are steep to, and l>old, and \ou w ill have ]■.', 1(1. '1, H, and 7 I'atlioiiis for half a
mile in; it then slialliiUsto the head ot ilie bay. Mlnre iher*' is a sandy bvaeh and a river
riming southward. This is a sniiii uml se. me pluce lor vessels to run into \»henever oe-
ciiition may re(|iiire. 'i'o the iioiih.vard ot the Northern I'oint is a mountain called Signal
Hill, eoiiinionly havinc h siunal-post upon it, iinil serving to point out its situation.
TIIK IIOltSK ISli.\M)S are situated nearly efjui-ilisiaiit between I'artridije Point
.indCape St. .loliii, bearing Iroiii the latter N. by W. and N. N. \V . distant about five
Icaijues; these are tw(i islamls, and lorm a circuit ol' nearly two leauues, appearing mode-
rately l'i)i;li; theri! are llirei' rocks above water lyiim to the northward of the easternmost ;
and oil the east side of the same islami there are some sunken roeks, which stret<-ti out in
siiinu places near a mile from the shore ; at the .S. K. |iart ol' this island there is also a littlo
(■live, (it only for boats; there is probaidy a safe channel between these islands, but it is
ii'ldoii altem|iled : the eastern island is the lar<;est.
Folhiwin;; the shore of Neulouiidland, to the N. Westward of Cape St. .John lliere are
t.vo bays', called rini! \\i\\ and iJay Verte, but allhouyh these may be places of good au-
••iioriiue. they are little fre()iieiiled by shippinc.
t'l.Kl'!' DK lilS IIAKIloK.—'l 111; harbor lies to the soutli-eastward of Partridgo
P lint, I'rom which it is distant one lea;j:iie, and derives its very apjiropriate name from three
ri"narl.able hillocks just over it. It is t;inall but safe, and secure from all winds, having
excellent anchoray;e in its N. K. arm, in 4 fathoms water. T«» avoid h rocky shoal that
liesalitiut 100 yards od'the island, borrow towards the eastern shore, until yoii (jet IJInll"
Head open ti, the eastward of the island. 'I'liere is plenty of wood, but in a dry seas(m'
water becomes scarce. It is, however, very conveniently .-laiated for the fishery, atiiJ coin-
niDiily !•< (re(|uemi'd by H or 10 French vessids.
W H,''J'K 15 A v. — 'I'his is a larije and extensive arm of the sea, being at its entrance, from
f'ape P; rtrid^e to Cat Head, full t leamies wide, and ninnini: in a S. westerly direction,
«ii()iit 11 lea.'.;iies, to its head ; where it is contracted to a river's iiiuuth 1,', mile wide, ju
this Hav or <ii;ll are several islands, coves, and inlets, all'tudiii^ both am horaue and shelter;
tlii'HC are Lobster Harbor, Soiiilivard Ann, Middle Arm. i'lucon Islands, Westward Arm,
I'lirwick Cove, Craiisby's Island, (iold Cove, or jriver's Head, (ioat and .So|» Islands, .Sop'a
Ann, .lacks(urs Arm, Frencli Cove, Creat and Little Coney Arms, and (Jreat and Little
Cat Arms.
liOliSTK 11 1 1 A R 15( >R. — I'his is a small round harbor, with a sliallow narrow entrance,
havinj;, at low water, in some places, not abovi- H or ') feet water; but when you are once
entered, you will have 15 and 1:5 fathoms all over the liarbor. Small vessels, therefore,
sail in, commonly, at t!ie (lood tides.
Tllh: SOUTH W'AIM) A l{ M lies about 8 miles from Lobster Harbor, and furthcrup
the bay ; here a ship may am hir with sjreat safety, in 17 fatlumis water, about .3 rnile»
within the heads; but there is also uood anchoraije in any part below this, and before you
nre advanced so far up, in "JO and •2'> I'athoins; a little above the inner point, on the uorth-
ern side, is a muscle bank, which stretches (luite a(;ross tlii' Arm, and nearly dries at low
water; and when you have passed this, you will have 11 and Iv! lathoms water, and the
channel continues deep until yiui approach the River's Head, 'i'his is tlie first great inlftt
on this side of the ^ulf, and may, llierel'ore, be readily recomii/.ed.
MIDDLK AlviSl. — This inlet lies about U mile S. W. from tlie Southward Arm; at
its entrance is a rocky island, which is joined to the shore by a shoal, over which are 1, 2,
and, in some jilaces, .'5 fathoms water. This inlet runs in to the soiitliward, about 3 or 4
miles. To enter it, you will do wull in kcepinjj the larboard shore on board; it is fitted
only for small vessels. Two leamies \V. by S. Iroiii Middle Arm, is llawlinj: Point; and
between them lie the Piiieoii Islands, about which the jtjround is tjood for fishing.
WESTWARD ARM.— This lies E. S. 11. ^ S. of Hawliiiij Point, and runs up nearly
4 miles; here lart;c vessels may anchor in IH fathoms water : there is a cove on eacli side
of its entrance; that to the N. Eastward is named Uear Cove, where smaller vessels may
moor securely, ajul ride safe from all winds, in about 12 fathoms water; the other is calhid
Wild Cove, a very indilVerent anchorage, open to the N. Westerly winds, and the bottom
rocky and foul.
PURWIClv COVE. — About 5 leajOjues down from the River's Head, and near the .S.
E. side of the bay, lies (irat'by's, or Mid 15ay Island, without either cove or ])lace of shel-
ter; on the S, Eastern part of tliis island is a shoal riimiinu; oil" the length of two cables,
with not more than 'j feet water over it ; and nearly abreast of this island, on the S. E. side
of White Bay, is Purwick Cove, where shipping may find safe anchorage, and lie with good
conveniences for the fisheries.
Having passed to the southward of Cranby's Island, the bay narrows and runs up abo't
5 leagues towards (Jold Cove, where the river branches out into several streams; and is
commonly called the River's Head.
Ok returning up the western side ofWliite Bay, you will perceive Sop's Island, about 3
miles in length, aud 11 miles in circuit ; near its southern eud is Goat's island ; these form a
^
32
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
long passngp, or ann, called Sop's Arm ; at the north part of which a vessel may Bafelv
anchor, just inside the north side of Sop's Island ; this will be the best side of thechiiiiKol.o'r
passage, into •he arm ; but there is anchorage in deep water between Sop's Island and tin-
main, before you reach so far up as ( Joat's Island : there is also a small cove at the north cm]
of the island, called Sop's Cove, and two other coves opposite the main, called Hart's ('oves
in all which the fisheries are carried on, although shijjs generally anchor in the upoer part
of the arm, and withinside of (joat's Island.
JACKSON'S AKM. — About 4 or 5 miles to the northward of Sop's Island is .TacKsdn's
Arm, to enter which you will pass a ragced point, low and round ; tiie" water here is deeji, ex-
cept in a small Cove on tlie starboard side, where a vessel should moor head and stern : this
place affords the lareest tindier in White's Bay. Frenchman's, or Frendi Cove, is about
H league to the nortJiward of Jackson's Arm, and ofl'ers good and safe anchorage,
ill LITTLE AND GREAT CONEV ARMS.— Nearly 4 miles to the N. Eastward of
Frenciiman's Cove, is Coney Arm Head, the most remarkable land on the western side
of White Bay, and bears W. N. W. J W. distant (> leagues from Cape Partridge; the land
here projects out one mile and a half, forming a deep bight, railed Great Coney Arm. In this
place there is no goo J shelter for sliipping; but in Little Coney Arm, which lies to the
westward of the head, is convenient anchorage for small vessels, although its entrance is too
shallow for large ships ; here fishing cratt frequently rendezvous.
GREAT AND LITTLE CAT ARMS— To the north-eastward of Coney Arm Head,
distant 3 miles, lies the (jreat Cat Arm, and 5 miles further is Little (Jat Arm ; this latter
inlet runs up to the westward full two miles; olf its northern point are some rocks above
water; to avoid which, keep nearer to tlie soutiiern shore ; you will lind the water deep, and
no good shelter, unless you approach the head or further end of the arm, where you will
Jie secure and land-locked.
LITTLE HARBOR DEEP.— You will now be to the northward of White Bay. and
following the shore, vill perceive the entrance to Little HarborDeep, called by the French
La Vache ; this pi; . e is much exposed to south-easterly winds, and by no means a good
harbor; oft' its n :rthern point are some rucks, which are always above water; they lie halfa
mile from the simre, and afford good fishing about their environs ; the water is not very deep
in any part ci this inlet, and when you get up half way from the entrance to the head, or
further end, ;l becomes quite shoal.
GRANDFATHER'S COVE, or L'ANCE L'UNION, is an inlet about two miles deep,
lying one mile and a half from Little Harbor Deep; this is also open to the southerly winds :
and max be known, when near the shore, by the northern point appearing like an island, and
bearing N. N. W. \ N. from Cape Partridge : it is but an inditferent place for shipning, and
seldom frequented.
ORANGE BAY, or GREAT HARBOR DEEP.— This may be known from any
other inlet, by th' and a' iU entrance being much lower than any land on the north side of
V/hite's Bay, and oy is bearing north, distant 5 leagues from Cape Partridge; it forms a
large harbor, and when you ;;et about three miles within its entrance, divides into three
branches, in the northe' ■ ar-n the water is too deep for vessels to anchor, until they have run
up near the head ; but t;!e middle fin . has a goed bottom, and safe anchorage in (. .uid 7
fathoms water. A little witnin the entrance of Orange Bay there is a Cove on each side
frequented by the fishing vessels; but these are very dangerous lor a ship to lie in, for although
they moor head and stern, yet should a gale come on from the eastward, there is little
safety to be depended upon.
FOUCHE'E. — This place is little frequented, and there is no anchorage until you ap-
proach its further end, where you will find a cove on the northern side; this cove is '2 or
3 miles above the entrance, and very small vessels may anchor there in lb fathoms, moor-
ing head and stern. The land on both sides is extremely high and steep to the shore ;
there is also another arm running in above two miles furtlier than the cove, but it is so
narrow, and has such a depth of water, that it is almost uselr»ss to shipping.
HOOPING HARBOR. — About eight miles to the north-eastward of Fouchee, and a
little to the S. Westward of Canada Head, lies the entrance to Hooping Harbor, or Sans
Fond. This place has two arms, or bays, one running up northward, the other westerly;
like many of the adjacent inlets, there is deep water all the way until you get near to the
head of the northern branch ; there the bottom is a kind of loose sand, o|)en to the southerly
winds, and by no means a safe place to lie in ; but in the western arm a vessel may anchor
ip a moderate depth with saftey.
CANADA HEAD lies about three miles to the south-westward of Canada Point, or
Hide's Head ; it is elevated land, and very easily to be distinguished either from the north-
ward or southward, but when you are directly to the eastward of it, it becomes hidden by
the high land up the country, commonly called the Clouds.
CANADA BAY. — This is an inlet of considerable size and extent: at its southern en-
trance is Canada Head ; from whence it runs N. N. Easterly full 6 leagues ; here vessels
caught in easterly gales may seek shelter, and anchor in safety : in entering, when you get
above the two rocky islet* which lie near Ride's Head, and called the Cross Islnds, you will
KLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
33
I may Rafely
■i ch;iiitiel, or
land and tlif
he north end
lart's (.'lives,
e upper part
is .Tuciisiin's
! is deep, ex-
1(1 stern : this
uve, is ahoiit
Eastward of
western side
j!.e ; the land
Arm. In this
h lies to tilt!
trance is too
k' Ann Head,
I ; tltis latter
rocks ahove
ler deep, and
lere you will
lite Bay, and
y the French
leans a f;nod
hey lie halt' a
lot very deep
the liead, or
o miles deep,
herly winds :
III island, and
hipoin^, and
wn from any
north side of
it forms a
es into three
ley have run
e in (. and 7
in eauh side
forallhough
lere is little
ntil you ap-
cove is 2 or
loitis, inoor-
the shore ;
hut it is so
lehLP, and a
hor, or Sans
ler westerly ;
near to the
he southerly
may anchor
da Point, or
1 the nnrth-
es hidden by
n
outhern en-
here vessels
fhen you get
nds, you will
srr a low white |)oint, and another low black one a little beyond it; ofl'this latter, distant two
cjihles' lengths, lies a surda-u rock: keep therefore towards the middle of the bay, and you
will find no daiuier, except a nn k above water, which lies about a mile below the point of
the narrows: this you will endeavor to leave on your larboard hand, keeping; mid-channel,
iind von will have IH fathoiiis throU!,'h the narrowest part. Soon after you have passed the
narrows, the bay widens, and is above a mile across, and you may then anchor in from 18 to
•JO lath'iMis, <;oo(l lioldiiif; ground, and secure from all winds. But this bay is not much
iVfiiiieiited. and only oceasioiially resorted to iii case of necessity.
KNiiLK'K lIARiJOli is situated on the north side of Canada Bay; to sail into this place
von must pass a low point, appearinn white, and forming the northern jioint of entrance to
Taiiada May ; then keep near the shore, until you cet abreast of the next point, which makes
the Marbor: haul round it to the S. K. taking care not to come too near the point, for it
shoals a full caiiles' len.rth o(V; having' so far advanced, you can anchor in from 15 to 7 fa-
thoms, cood holding; Kinuiid; but this is well up the Cove, which is too small to lie in,
iiniessyou moor head and stern. In Hide's Arm. which runs up N. N. E. from Engloe,
almost '2 lea<jues, there is no good aiichoraiit!. the water beint; too deep; but within the
south end of Entire Island, is a srood harbor lor shallops, although from thence to where
the ships lie, there is no (haimcl, even for boats, unless at high water, or beyond half tide.
('ON'CIl HAHBOR bears nearly E.N. E. ^ E. distant 7 or 8 miles from the entrance of
(!;iiiada Bay ; it lies very open to the winds from the south, but has yood anchorage well up
tothehea<l, in 11 fathoms water, good lioldin:/ t;round. S. by W. from Conch, distant 2
leagues, is Hilliard's Harbor, called by the French Botitot; this is a bad place for shipping,
but very convenient for the lishing craft.
CAPE IUtr(iE HAKBOll.— This harborlies to the westward of (Jroais and Belle Isle
Islands, wliicli cunirihute to shelter it from the heavy swells ofthe Atlantic; the southern
jiart of its etunr is shallow and rocky, and in the S. W. Arm is the Harbor shoal. The
best aii(hora;:t m the Northern Arm. in any depth idwater. Ships may beat in or out, but
the centre ofthe harbor is too deep for anchorage. Directly opposite to its entrance is a small
island, which is named after the haibrr, Kouge Island ; its northern end requires a berth in
' "bKLEE isle and CKOAIS ISLAND.— These are high islands lying off theN.E.
roast of Nenfiiuirlland, rroiii wliicli they are separated f)or 10 miles. Belle Isle is the south-
ermiiosi, and tlii' larger island, being H miles in length and ."5 broad : there is a little harbor at
its s(!Uth iiart, where fishing craft occasionally resort, but not calculated for shipping; other
coves may be found Mi'iiiit the shores of the isjinnl, where shallojis soinetinies take shelter.
()l]'it> south-eastern side lies (Irten Island, a small rocky islet, and to the southward a bank
ef soundings extends with 1-J. -'0, _>.'), and V.o rathoitis : there are s(oiie rocks, both above and
under water, at lli<" S. p-oint of Belle Isle, hut these lie close in to the land.
CKOAIS ISLANDIies to the north-eastward ofBelle Isle; and is about 8 mile.s in length
and •,", miles broad, its iiortliern point lying in latitude ')1 ^. Oli'lhis end, and also off the N.W.
part ofthe Island, are -^eveial ro( ks al)ove water: otherwise this Island is bold all round, and
iietween it and the main are from '20 to 70 fathoms water: there are also two islets midway;
the sonthern one is coimnonly called iled Island, tlii-y are both steep to, and without any
Known daiiirer.
( ' K ()(}!' K 1 1 A B B< )B. — The entrance to this harbor !>; half a mile wide, and somewhatdif-
fiiiill lo discover, it i)ears N.W. from ( Jroais. distant :'. lea'jii<'s. When thei. rth point ofBelle
lsh> is clear of the southern p.irt of (iroais. you will br- a little lo the southward of Croque;
;i!id this mark will not f il pointing out to those iina<(|uainted with this navigation the
fair way to its entraiue ; esjiecFally ;is the headland forming the southern shore is hare of
trees and has a round appearance, with some rocks, which are always visible, and He about
■10 yards to the S. I"!, ofit. The shores of tl"' harbor are Ixdd to, and even a frigate may easi-
ly work into it; the amli(.ra<:e is e\( (•|let:t. being s."'iid holdiii'r ground, of dark slate colored
mud. Having opened the Harbor s mouth, steer in N. W. by N. proceed mid-channel, and
when you have advanced up aholit a mile, you will see the river divide into two branches,
anchor hereabout. There is a little Cove at the southern entrance, called Irish Bay, in
which are 1.;, II), S, and .') t'athoms, and two rocks above water at the head ofthe Bay, near
which is a little rivulet of (i'esh water.
(iKEAT AND fJTTLE ST. .11 LIEN.— To the north-eastward of the Harbor of
('ro(|ue lie Negro and St. .Iiilien's Island-' : near whit h are the Harbors of (ireat and Little
St. .lulien, and also that of' ( Iraiidsway : these are all adjacent to the Island of St. .lulien,
and hear to the north-westwaid ofthe northern part ofthe Island of (Jroais. The S. W. end
of the Island of St. .lulien is hut little separated from the main, and cannot be distinguished
to be an Island, until you arrive very near it; there is at this end no passage, except lor
boats; therefore to sail into either of these harbors you may keep close to the novtli ea-st
end of the island ; and in jiassing that, the Harbors will open to your view.
Great St. Juiieu's ia the easternmost harbor, to which there is no danger until you get with-
t'
34
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
in the entrance; then you will find the starboard shore to be shoal, nearly one tliird over; but
when you have passed the first stages, you may anchor in from 8 to 4 tathoins water.
To Sail into Little St. JulierCs you will first steer for (treat St. Julien's Harbor, in or-
der to clear a sunken rock, which lies directly before the Harbor's mouth ; and having
arrived opposite the entrance of (xrandsway, steer into the harbor and anchor in 5 or 4
fathoms water. It will be requisite for all ships which jro into either of these Harbors, to
moor both head and stern ; but Grandsway is not a harbor for shipping, although it is ex-
tremely convenient for fishing craft.
CREMALLIRE and GOOSE COVES.— These places lie on the northern shores
of Hare Bay ; Cremallire has spacious and good anchorage in 7 or H fathoms, and is siii)-
plied.with abundance of wood and water. Trois Montagnes is merely a small creek, m
whicji a few French vessels moor during the winter season. It is situated to the 8. West-
ward of Cremallire, and has a rivulet which extends eastward to ( Joose (Jove.
Goose Cove is situated on tiie western side of Goose Cape ; it is small but very secure
and has most excellent anchorage in 4 or 5 fathoms. Vessels can sail into it with a westerly
wind, or into Cremallire with an easterly one.
ST. ANTHONY'S HARBORS.— This lies a little to the north-eastward of Cremallire
Bay, and is a very safe place, having good anchorage with 6 and 7 fathonjs water, on a bot-
tom of blue clay ; its entrance lies West, distant one mile and a half lioni Cape St. Antlionv.
It cannot be easily mistaken, from the remarkable high land on its southern shore. It is well
supplied with wood and water, and is commonly frequented by some French fishing vessels.
BRAHA HARBOR. — This harbor is small but safe, having good anchorage within
it ; the bottom is sandy, and the shores are bold and steep to. The Hralia Shoal, lies S. 74"
E. (true) distant \\ mile from the Needle Rocks: it is reported to have not more; than 6
feet water over it, but Capt. Bullock says, he never found less than 1(» feet ; with a little sea
it occasions breakers, but the common current will always create a <u)nstant ripple.
HOW HARBOR lies on the northern shore of Hare Bay. The entrance to this
place bears N. 48° W. distant 1-J miles from Fishot's Northern Island, and is by far tiie best
harbor in Hare Bay, having safe anchorage over every part ; t)ie surrounding hills are
barren; but small stunted wood may be found in the valleys. To the northward a range of
marshes and ponds extend as far as Pistolet Bay. The harI)or is about half a mile wide,
and a full mile and a half long ; a small rock lies off the western point, but it is very near
the land, and the upper part of the harbor shoals gradually.
ST. LUNAIRE BAY.— This excellent harbor will contain 100 vessels in perfect secu-
rity, is remarkably easy of access, and may always be recognized by the appearance of the
White Capei the best and most convenient anchorage will be found at Amelia Cove, in
from 5 to 7 fathoms. The approach and entrance are bold and steep to, only obsei-ving to
give the point of the Southern Islands a good berth. Both wood and water are to be ob-
tained without difficulty, and it affords in every respect a good and secure anchorage.
GRIGUET BAY and CAMELS' ISLANDS HAKBOR.— 'I'he North Bay is inse-
cure in spring and fall, on account of its being exposed to the southerly gales ; the S. West
Bay is therefore recommended, where there is good anchorage in five or six fathoms water.
Camels' Islands Harbor will always be found too intricate for a stranger, and sluMild ne-
Yer be attempted without the assistance of a pilot.
THE NORTH HARBOR runs in with Stormy Cape; and has, at its entrance, a mck
above water ; which is bold to all round, and vessels may sail on either side of it, and an-
chor in 6 fathoms water. In tlie ])assage which leads to the N. W. and S. W. Harbors,
there is an island wliieli contracts the channel, rendering the passages narrow ; the best and
safest entrance is to the northward of this island, giving the outer point of the N.W. Har-
bor a little berth, and so soon as you get within the island you will o])en both harbors;
that which runs in N. Westward is the larger of the two, and is two miles deep ; you should
sail up on its western side, having 14, 16, anri 18 fathoms, luitil you get inside the point,
a little within which is a bank )f 7 or 8 fathoms, but when you have passed over this, yoii
will again droj) into 16 and 17 fathoms ; and as you approach the head ol the Bay you will
lessen your water to 7, 6, and 5 fathoms, every where good anchorage, and well sheliercd
from all winds. The two Islands of (iriguetlie outside of Camel's Island, and, together,
form between them several small but siuig harl)ors for fishing vessels.
WHITE I&uANDS. — You will now perceive the White Islands, lying to the north-
eastward of Stormy (^ajjc, from which they are distant one league and about "J^ miles from
the shore opposite; they are small, of moderate height, and have several rocks inside, i)otli
above and under water, but these are not considered to be dangerous, as they are easily
discoverable even in fine weather, and the passage between them and the main is very safe.
QUIRPON ISLAND. — This lies off the north-eastern part of Newfoundland, and
forms the S. E. point of entrance to the Strait of Belle Isle ; it is large, high, and barren ;
and Cape Degrat is visible in clear weather, full 12 leagues to seaward.
LITTLE QUIRPON. — There is a narrow channel which nuis into the southward of
Quirpon and divides it from the main ; here lies Little Quirpon Harbor, to enter which
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
35
ovor;liiit
'ator.
)or, in or-
iel liiiviiig
In 5 or 4
iirbors, to
li it is ex-
!ry securr,
a westerly
Crrmallire
, on a i)()t-
. Anthony.
. ItiswHI
ng vcsst'ls.
ige witliin
lies S. 74"
ore than fj
a little sea
)le.
ce to this
ar the i)est
tjX hills are
I a range oi"
mile wide,
8 very near
rfeet seru-
mce (if the
[I Cove, in
hservini; to
e to he ob-
lorage.
ay is itise-
le S. West
ins water,
shwultl ne-
ice, a rock
it, and an-
il arbors,
e best and
.W. Har-
1 harbors ;
you should
the point,
r this, you
ly you will
1 sheltered
, together,
the north-
miles from
nside, both
are easily
s very safe,
illand, and
lid barren ;
ifhward of
iter which
there is no danger but what you will easily perceive ; vessels commonly moor head and
stern, and lie there peifeetlv secure.
DEGRAT AND PIGEON COVES.— These coves lie on the eastern side of Quirpon
Island, and to the northward of Cape Dejjrat ; at their entrance are several small rocky islets
and rocks above water, alfordinfi; behinti them very tair set urity for shipping, in 4 I'athoms
water, and good conveniences for fishing, liauld Cape, which is the northern extremity of
Quirpon Island, lies in latitude 51° 39' 4.5" N., and in longitude 55° :27' 50" W. ; it is rocky
and steep to, and may be approached very near, with great safety; having rounded tliis Cape
you will |)erceive a rocky point to the southward leading to the Harbor of Quirpon.
GREAT QUIRPON HARBOR, lies on the N. W. side of the island, and its entrance
is b»>tween it and (irave's Island ; in your approach towards it from the northward you may
borrow as clos(^ as you jjlease to 13auld Head, there being no invisible danger until you arrive
at the entrance to the harbor, where there are some shoals which must be left on your lar-
board side: to do this keepRlack Head on Quirpon Island open of all the other land, until
Kaven Point coines over Noddy Point, then haul in for the harbor, going not nearer than
the distance of half a cable's length from the point of ( Jrave's Island ; the anchorage with-
in the island is every where good, with room and depth enough for any ship, and the ground
holds well; but the best place to ride in will be towards the upper end of Grave's Island,
abreast of (ireen Island, in 9 fathoms water ; the passage to the Inner Harbor, on either side
of Green Island, is very good for ships of moderate water, through which you will have 3
fathoms, and above Green Islatid you have excellent riding in 7 fatlioms. There is also a
j)assage to this harjjor through Little Quirpon Hari)or, luit it is too narrow and intricate
for any one to attempt, unless they are perfectly acquainted with the navigation.
NODDY IIARHOR. — This jilaee lies a little to the westward of Quirpon Harbor, and
runs in between Noddy Point and Cape Raven ; there is no danger in entering, and you will
|)ass to the starl)oard of the little island that lies about a mile within the entrance, and anchor
above it in ') fathoms water; or you may with a small vessel run further up into the basin, and
anchor in JJ or '.i fathoms ; here is a stage within the island, and on the eastern side of the
harbor, with eoiivenient room for many vessels.
GULL ROCK and MARIA'S LEDCJE.— The Gull Rock lies W.N. W. fromBauld
Cape in the island of Quirpon, distant -JJ miles ; and N. N. E. J E. nearly .3 miles from Cape
Kaven ; it is always above water. Maria's Ledge lies nearly S. W. from the Gull Rock, distant
2 miles, and N. i)y E. li mile from Cape Raven, being distant about a mile from Maria's
Head. In standing in from the northward for either QUIRPON or NODDY HAR-
liOKS, you need be under no ajjprelieiision of danger from the Gull or Maria's Rocks, for
both are above water, the passage between them is half a league wide, and vei-y safe ; but it
will l)e |)ru(ient to pass nearer the (iiill Koek because of the N. W. Ledge, which never
ajjpears but in iiad weather; (his N. W. Ledge bears W. a little south, distant IJ of a mile
from the (iu!l Roek, and you should not attempt the j)assage between it and the main, on
account of other roeks liiat are said to lie about, and places of shallow water.
^Po the westward are the Sacred Islands; (ireat Sacred Island lies about N. W. by W.
i W. from Hauld (^>pe, disiant 5i miles, and S. E. by E. ^ E. from Cape Norman nearly
1.3 miles. Little Sacred Island is one mile to the southward of the great island ; the pas-
sage between them is safe, and you may sail round both, for they are high and bold ; with-
in them, on the main and to the W. S. Westward, is Sacred IJay, tolerably large, with nu-
merous rocky islets within it : the shores of this place abound with wood, and therefore it
is much resorted to for the use of the fisheries at Quirpon and Griguet, &c. Cape Onion
forms the north jjoiiit of Sacred Pay, being high and steep ; near it is a remarkable rock, cal-
led the Mewstone, and much resembling that in Plymouth Sound. There is a little cove
to the southward of this rock, where a vessel may occasionally resort to with safety.
HA-HA PAY. — From Cape Onion to Purnt Cape the course is W. ? N. about 6 miles;
it has a white appearance, and ris(\s from the seaward to a considerable height. On the east-
ern side of Purnt Cape is Ha-ha Bay, which runs in southerly about 2 miles ; it lies open to
northerly windh, but when you are within the eajie you will find anchorage in 6 or 7 fathoms ;
or you can go further up and ride well sheltered in 3 or 2^ fathoms. This is a convenient
place for the fisheries, and has plenty of wood.
PISTOLET BAY. — This bay lies be( ween Burnt Cape and the Norman Ledges, which
bear from each other N. W. by N. and S. E. by S. distant 8 miles; the bay is extensive, and
reaches several miles each way, having good anchoring ground in most parts, particularly on
the western siile, a little above the islandu, in about 5 fathoms water ; the shore is tolerably well
furnished w ith wood, and contributes to supply those places which are destitute of that article.
COOK'S HARBOR, lies in the N. W. part of Pistolet Bay, and withui the islands,
about two miles above Norman Ledge Point. These ledges are about one mile to the east-
ward of the north point : to clear these dangers as you enter, be sure to keep Burnt Cape well
open of the outer rocks, that lie off the islands at the western entrance to Pistolet Harbor,
and if going in, so soon as you consider yourself to be to the southward of these ledges, steer
iu for the harbor, leaving the islands and rocks, on your larboard side ; keep the siouthern
'' 36
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
flhore on board, for fear of a ledge of rocks that juts out from a little rnr-ky island on tlip
other side; and so soon as you get within the island haul over for the northern shore, mikI
anchor in 4 or 5 fathoms water. 'J^his liarbor is capable of heini; made verv convenient
and several fisliing rooms and projjcr stages for the boats to resort to, and cure their fisli
might be erected in all the coves between it and ('ape Norman.
CAPE NORMAN, is th • northernmost point of Newfoundland, being of a nioderat?
even height, and very I)arri'n appearance, which continues far inland : it is about a lp;n;iie
to the N. Westward, of the ledges; fnnn (.'a|)e Norman the shores of Newfoundland
turn S. Westerly, and will be described hereafter.
BELLE LSLE. — This island, which lies at the entrance of the strait to which it roni-
municate.s its name, should be called the Northern H(dle Isle, to distinguish it from tbnse
we have already described, lying to the southward ; it is about 8 miles long and .'{ broad,
or 7 leagues in circumference, being distant from Bauld Head in Quirpon Island, about
14 miles, and from the coast of Labrador 12 miles; it is moderately high, and wears a
uniform sterile anr^arance. On its N. Western shore there is a small harbor called Link
Cove, or Harb .r, lying within an island almost close to the land, and fit only for small
craft ; and at the eastern side of this island is another cove called Hatteaux Creek, fre-
quented occasionally by shallops. About two miles to the nortli-easfward of this island
lies a ledge of i ks, part of which appear above water, an(' )ver these the sea breaks v«mv
high; this is called the N. E. Ledge, you will have 15 an'. 0 fathoms close to it, and 55
between it and the north part of the island. Thf- soundings about this Belle Isle are verv
irregular; near tlui island you will seldom find less than 20 fathoms, except on a small
bank said to lie to the northward, distant 4 miles from its N. Eastern part, whereon is onlv 5
fathoms. The northern part of this island is said to lie in about the latitude of 51° 57' N.
Soundings in the Strait of Belle hie. — In crossing the Strait of Beile Isle from Quir-
pon to Chateaux Bay, your soundings will be irregular; from 20 to .30 fathoms on the
Newfoundland side, and in some places from .30 to .'3H fathoms; in the stream or middle
of the Strait, you will find 25 and .35 fathoms, coarse sand and broken sliells ; and towards
Chateaux Bay, 45 to 80 fathoms, and within a mile of the coast of Tvibrador .35, .30, and
95 fathoms. To the northward between Belie Isle and St. Peter's Bay there are 5'J, H7,
9C, 63, ?.nd 20 fathoms.
XVi
THE SOVTHERIV €OAST OF NEU'FOVi\DLAiVD,
FROM CAPE RACE TO CAPE CHAPEAU ROUGE.
PRELIMINARY REMARKS.— Vessels bound towards the (iulf of Newfoundl.md
sbould take the greatest care to notice and make a proper allowance for the(;urrents, whidi
• 3tfrom the eastward, all along the southern coast of Newfoundland, with fre(|uently fatal
velocity; causing an impetuous indrought into the various Bays, and occasioning flic mncli
to be deplored loss of nrany lives, and the wreck of numerous vessels; these local currents
chiefly prevail on that part between Cape Race and Cape Ray: more vessels have been
cast away on the small point of land which divides the two bays of Trepassey and St.
Mary, than on any other part of the island ; that these accidents were occasioned by the
currents there can be little doubt.
An able navigator, who has been 20 years employed in the fisheries, and who is a native
of Newfoundland, observes, it is well understood by all the l)oat masters, that there is in
general a strong current setting in from the eastward, along the Western Coast of New
foundlan<l, which, after passing Cape Pine, runs more towanls St. ^Mary's and Placentia
Bays; this current will be felt at least 20 leagues to the S. W. of Cape Pine, and becoiiies
more rapid as you approacli the land ; its velocity increasing as the winds favor its direc-
tion ; but at all times of sufiTicient magnitiule to endanger the safety of any vessel ap-
proaching from the south or west in foggy weather, and being ignorant of its existence.
In order to avoid the danger arising from this current, the fishermen in foggy weather,
when returning from the western coast to their homes on the eastern shore, invariably use
the lead, depending more upon the depth of water than their comptiss, and always keeping a
sufficient distance from the land to insure the safety of the vessel. On passing to tlie east-
ward of Cape Race they never a|)proach nearer to the land than .35 fathoms water ; the
ground being more of an inclined plane on the west than on the east coast, you will find that
depth of water at a considerable distance; the ground becomes more broken, and the depth
of water increases so fast, that in your course from Cape St. Mary's to avoid Cape Race
\
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
37
i
i»
you will, wliPii to tlie eastward of it, find yourself in /jO fathoms, and when advanced a very
siiort distance fnrtlier, you will drop into (10 and 70 fathoms; consequently, you will then
he ilear of anv land, and may safely puisne what course you tiiink proper ; l)Ut, in ail this
iiaviijation, tlie mariner's safety may Ite insured l)y a due ittention to the lead.
CAl'K HACK is situated on the southernmost part of Newfoundland, and lies S. W. |
W. distant .'} leasjues from I'ajje Ballard : hefore it lie 2 or 3 rocks ahove water, these are
flose to the land, and have 10 fathoms water very near them. Between ti and 7 miles E.
S. K. from ('ape Hace is the New Hank, heins; 4 miles long and 1^ broad, and lying N. K.
hv N. and S. W. by W. ; on it are 17, v-'O, and 'Jo fathoms with very deep water on its out-
side, and ',W fathoms just within it. Vessels making this |)art of the coast may know their
npinoach toward the land, by suddenly lessening their water to the above depths.
The Virgin Kocks, which are danaerous, he in the direct track to Cape Race, Newfound-
land, the point which vessels bound to Quebec generally endeavor to make (Seepage 1.'}.)
Near Cajjc Race is a small inlet named ('ripple Cove ; the land then turns westerly to-
wards Mistaken Point a distainie ol 4j miles; the shores are bold, and o(f Mistaken Point
is a rock above water. N. W. by W. about 2 miles is the Krencli Mistaken Point, this also
has a rock olf its extremity : from luMice the shore winds N. by W. into Trepassey Bay, at
the northern part of which lies Biscay and Mutton Bays, and Trepassey Harbor. The two
former of these are seldom freijuenfed. and it is considered dangerous to get embayed there,
for the sea commonly drives in, and there is hardly any current to help you out again. Mut-
ton Bay is formed to the eastward by Cape Mutton, and to the westward by dxpe Powles ;
this last is the extreme ])oint of a narrow neck of Ian;! that divides Mutton Bay from Tre-
passey Harbor: it is a long, low, sandy, and stony beach, over which the ships lying in
Tre])asse 'larbor can be distincily seen. Mutton Bay is about 2 miles deep, and lias from
1-2 to .'5 fati.oms water in it: but the Ixittom is foul and rocky.
TREPASSEY KAKBOR.— The entrance to (his harbor is to the westward of Cape
Powles, and tlic direct course in will be N. E. i E. Cape I'owles lies from French Mis-
taken I'oint N. \V. about H miles ; from (Jape Mutton W. S. W. i' W. one mile, and from
Cajie PiiK! N. 10. by K. o miles. The entrance to Trepassey Harbor is three quarters of a
mile wide, and continues of that breadth full 2^ miles up; it then narrows to less than
half a mile, and opens again to its former widlh, and there vessels commonly ride. To en-
ter this harbor ships conunonly steer over from Mistaken Point towards Cape Pine, until
you fairly open the liarl)or; you may (hen safely run along the shore, foritis bold ; in sail-
ing into the harbor, you will meet with a rock on the S. Eastern shore, lying about a mile
from Powles Head, and one third of a cable's length off the shore ; there is also, on the
northern side, a shoal which runs along up the harbor, so far as a low green point ; to clear
this shoal, bring Baker's Point on with a low rocky point at the e:itrance of the harbor; and
when you get so far up as the low green point, you may steer more westerly, and anchor
either in the N. W. or N. E. arm, in 5 or 6 fathoms water; both wood and water can be
obtained with case.
From Mistaken Point to Cape Pine the course and distance are W. N. W. } W. 4
leagues and a half: and from ('ape Pine to Cape Freels, west, one mile. The land about
Cape Pine is barren and uiodovately higli : from Cape Freels, the shore.s extend W. N.
W. one mile to Black Hea<l, and thence N. W. j' W. to the eastern reef, and head of St.
Shot's Bay.
ST. SHOT'S BAY. — This is the fatal sjiot where so many vessels have been recently
wrecked ; the bay is about a mile deep, and from the eastern to the western head, the bear-
ing is N. by \V. ,' W. distant two miles, it lies entirely open and exposerl to the sea.
ST. MAR VS 1>A^'. — This is an extensive bay, or gulf, connnencing on the eastern
side at St. Shot's, an<l on the western side at Point Lance ; the course from the eastern
head of St. Shot's to Point Lance being N. W. | W. about 20 miles ; t'rom thence the land
runs up E. N. E. n leagues and a quarter ; the land on each side being moderately high,
and having s(>veral good harbors in it. in |)roceeding from St. Shot's along the eastern
shore yon will pass two little coves, and reach Cull Island, this lies close in to the land, and
bears from the western head of St. Shot's N. J E. distant 4 miles.
From (juII Island to Cape English the bearing and distance are N. by E. J E. two
leagues; Ca|)e English is Iiigh table-land, terminating in a low rocky point, and fonning a
bay, abotit a mile deep, to the southward of it ; at the bottom of this bay is a stony beach,
within which is Ilolyrood Pond, running E. N. E. nearly six leagues, and from half a mile
to .1 miles in breadtli ; this occasions the ('ape to appear like an island, when you are to the
southward of it. One mile and three quarters N. E. | N. from Cape English is False
Cape ; six and a half miles E. N. E. from ('ape English is Point la Ilaye, this is low, and
has a ledge of rocks running from it abotit a ipiarter of a mile into the sea, and above a
mile along the shore, on which the waves break furiously in bad weather; this is the only
danger vou will meet with in St. Mary's Harbor.
ST. MARY'S HARBOR.— From Point La Haye to Double Road Point, which is the
38
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
, ^1
I
Houtlicrnoxtreiiieof St. Mary's Harbor, the c<)nr.se and distance arc K.N. E.onr mile and a
lialf; the land between in low and wears a barren appearance. Within Double Koaij Poim
18 Ellis's Point, distant half a mile ; these two form the starboard points of entrance to tin;
harbor, which is here nearly a mile wide. You will now perceive the river to be <livii|ci|
into two branches, the one nmning K. N. E. into what is called Mai \\:\y, the oilier S.
Easterly into St. Mary's Harbor. Whi^n you are within Kllis's Point, in St. Mary's Ihir-
bor, you can haul to the southward, and anchor abreast of the fishin<i-staL'es and li(>ii.sc.s
upon a flat, in 4 or 6 fathoms water, where you will ride land-locked ; this flat runs (,(f
Htiore about half a mile, and between it and the opposite shore is from 1.5 to :i() fallidtns
water. Tlie best auchora};e is about two miles aiiovc the town, (tppositeto IJrowii's Pi)tMl
where it is above half a mile wide; here also you will lie land-locked in 1'2 fathoms, mul
have excellent ground to the further end of the bay.
MAL BAY on the E. N. E. brant h, is about one mile wide, and runs up 2| miles; but
the anchorage is not good; a heavy sea frequently sets into it, and unless you run up to
its very head, in 5 or (J fatlioms, you can have no place even for occasional seciirity; it
tlierefore is seldom resorted to. The entrance to these harbors bears from Point Lance
nearly East distant 1!) miles. From Trapeau Point, the coast runs N. N. E. j N. aliove
two miles to Shoal Bay, and op|)osite to the nortliern point of this Shoal Bay lies (irtat
Colinet Island; this is about a league in length and one mile broad; the southern end of
which bears from Cape English N. by E. distant three leagues; there is a safe chatmcl on
either side of this island, only taking care to give Shoal Jiay Point a good bortli of a (piiir-
ter of a mile, in order to avoid some rocks which lie off it. On the northern side of the
Great Colinet is a stony beach, olF which runs a bank with from 7 to 17 fathoms water,
rocky ground. One mile and a half N. Eastward from Great Colinet is Little ('(dinet Is-
land, above a mile in length and half a mile in breadth ; there is deep water all roniid i'.
(4REAT SALMON KIVER.— E. N. E. five miles and a half from the nt.rtluni part
of Little Colinet Island is the entrance to (Jreat Salmon River, which is nearly three (jir.ir-
ters of a mile wide, and runs E. N. E. 7 or 8 miles. About 3 miles up this river, and on
its southern shore, is an opening called Little Harbor ; opposite this, in a small cove, is the
best anchorage in the river, although it is generally good throughout ; here you may ride
safely in 5 or (i fathoms water ; the river narrows as you advance up it, and towards its fur-
thest end becomes very shallow.
COLINET BAY.— N. W. by N. from the entrance of Great Salmon River. <listaiit
2} miles, and N. E. ^ E. .^i miles from Little Colinet Island, is tlie mouth of Colinet Bay ;
between Salmon River and Colinet Bay, is a cove a good mile and a half deep, witli fmni
13 to 4 fathoms in it, but it is exposed to the S. W. and therefore not mucli resorted to.
Colinet Bay runs in N. E. by N. about 2 miles, where the point of an island on the star-
board side narrows the passage, having |)assed which tlie diannel opens wider again, and
the top of the bay is a sandy shallow beach; throughout the whole of (Jolinet Bay the an-
chorage is good; you will have from V2 to fi fathoms water tip to the narrows; in jjassing
the narrows there are 7 and 8 fathoms, and ai)ove it (J, 5, i-nd 4 fathoms ; all good lmouimI.
NORTH HARBOR.— To the W. S. W. of Colinet Bay, 4 miles, and N. by E. about 2
miles from the northern end of Little Colinet Island, is the entrance to North Harbor,
which is three quarters of a mile wide, and rtins u]) to the northward 3 miles ; the anchor-
age is very good about two miles up the river, where if is half a mile wide in 5 or (i fathoms ;
or vessels may run further up, where two sandy jioints stretchout, being half acabl(!'s lenytli
asunder; keep the starboard point on board, and anchor close within the starboard shore.
In entering North Harbor always keep mid-channel, for the eastern land is somewhat shallow.
The land now trends W. S. W. ^ S. towards Point Lance; there arc one or two coves
in the way, but no place fit for the reception of shipping.
POINT LANCE lies in lat 40^^ 48', and is a low ragged point, although the land in tlie
interior rises up and becomes highly elevated. We have already stated that the course and
distance from the eastern head of St. Shot's to Point Lance, is N. W. i W. about 2'J
miles; from Point Lance to Cape St. Mary is N. W. i W. about 0^ miles.
CAPE ST. MARY is a high blurt" point of land making like Cajie St. Vincent's on the
coast of Portugal; the land to the northward along shore, to a considerable distaiKie. has
an even appearance, and is nearly of equal height with the cape itself. W. by S. from Cape
Lance, distant full two miles, lie the Bull and Cow Rocks; these are two flat rocks 'ying
very near each (»t!ier, and having many smdl rocks about them ; about a similar distance, but
nearer to the main, is another rock appearing at half tide; there are 10 fathoms between it
and the shore, and 1.5 fathoms between it and the Bull and (^ow Rocks. In a similar direction
to the Bull and Cow Rocks from Cape Lance, but at 3 leagues distance, and nearly S. S. W.
distance 7'^ miles from Cape St. Mary's, are two other little rocks appearing just above the
surface of the water, and having the sea constantly breaking over them ; they lie S. S. E.
and N. N. W. from each other, distant 3 cables' lengths, and have 1.5 fathoms between them ;
the same depth of water is all round them excepting towards the S. S. E. where only 6 fathoms
will be found 2 cables' lengths off. Between these rocks and Cape St. Mary are 32, 25,
I
i
of a mile, is tli^
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
3»
ami 19 rathoms water; and near the Cape are 13, 14. and 15 fathoms. Vessels therefore
iiiiiy proceed between them, and also between the Bull and Cow Rocks and the main, if
iipct'ssary, for tliere is no hidden danger ; but peihaps it will always be more prudent to go
to the southward of both.
PLACKNTIA BAY. — Theentranceto PlacentiaBny isformed by C'apeSt. Maryonthe
east, and ("ape ( Ihapeau Rouge, or Mountain of the Red Hat, on the west ; the former lying
in liititude 4U° 4')' N. the latter in4()° 53' N. bearing from each other W. N. \V. and E. S.
K. distant 17 leagues. Cape Chapeau Rouge is the most remarkable land on all the coast,
appearing higher than the surrounding shore, and somewli;it like the crown of a hat, from
wiiichsiiigularify it obtains its name; it is visible 1 1 or 1 '2 leagues to seaward, in clear weather.
From Cape St. Mary to Cape Bremeyour course will be N. by E. about 9 miles, and from
Point Breme to the Virgin Rocks N. E. by E. 13 miles : these rocks lie U mile from the
main, and always ai)|)ear above water ; a little to the southward of the Virgin Rocks are
.some whitisli clitfs in the land, by which it may be known if falling in with the land herea-
bouts in thick weather.
From the Virgin Rocks to Point Verde, the southernmost point of Placentia Harbor,
the course and distance are N. E. by E. | E. 5 miles; from St. Mary's Cape to Verde
Point there is no harbor or place of shelter for ships of any size.
PLAC'EN'J'IA HARBOR. — Point Verde or(ireen Point is low and level, and torms the
southern point of the road ; it has a pebbly beach on each side, and several fishing stages with-
in it; at the end of this beach, is a liigh rocky cliff, extending to the S. E. corner of the bay,
where it tigain terminates in a pebbly beacdi; this beach then runs E. N. E. one mile to the
Fort Point, and <ui the inside, which faces the .S. E. arm of the harbor, stands the town of
Placentia. A little southward of the town is a high hill, with a remarkable cliff on the mid-
dle of the beach. The outer side of the north point is level, with a clay cliff on its outer
part, bearing nearly N. E. by N. distant from Point Verde 1 i mile ; from this point the land
iorins a small bay, with a stony beach round it, to the corner of the cliff under Signal Hill;
this cliff continues to Freshwater Bay, which is formed in a valley between Signal Hill and
(■astie Hill, having a jiebbly beach around it; here a small rivulet nms down the valley, at
which vessels may obtain water ; to sail into this road, if coming from the southward, you
should keep a league off the land, in order to avoid the (Jibraltar Rock, which lies about
two miles to the westward of Green Point, and has only 8 feet water over it; the mark to
go to the northward of which is the castle, standing on a hill at the northern side of the
harbor, and very consi)',cuous to seaward, open of Point Verde ; when you have this castle
on with the point, you will pass a little to the northward of the rock, but when you have
the castle well open of the point, you will give the rock a wide berth ; run in with this market
keep your lead going, for there are regular soundings on both sides, and give Green Point a'
good berth of 2 cables' lengths, passing it in 4 fathoms water; then proceed to the anc^ior-
iige in Freshwater Bay, and under Castle Hill, at three quarters of the distance over from
that side, where you will lie in 6 or 7 fathoms water, good ground. At the bottom of the
road is a long beach, which terminates in a ])oint to the northward, on which stand some
houses and an old fortress ; there is also a fort on the opposite point; the entrance to the
harbor is between these ; it is very narrow, not above CO fathoms across, and has 3^ fathoms
water in it ; when you get within these points the harbor opens, becomes one third of a mil*
wide, and extends E. N. E. above 1^ mile, where ships may lie in perfect security with 6
and 7 fathoms water ; in going in keep nearer to the starboard side ; the stream runs into
the harbor more than 4 knots an hour. The tide rises 6 or 7 feet ; and it is high water,
full and change, at 15 minutes after 9 A. M.
N. E. i E. from Point Verde, distant two miles, and N. N. W. from Moll Point, about
J of a mile, is the Moll Rock, over which are only 12 feet water, with 8 and 10 fathoms
near it. N. E. by N. 5| miles from Point Verde is Point Latina; S. W. from Point La-
tina, distant one mile, is the Wolf Rock, these lie about half a mile from the main, and be-
tween Placentia Harbor and Point Latina, and therefore must have a good berth in passing;
the shore all the way is low near the sea, but high and ragged inland ; a large mile to the
eastward of Point Latina is Point Roche, which has a shoal off it extending one quarter of
a mile out.
LITTLE PLACENTIA HARBOR nms in to the southward from Point Roche, and
S. E. by E. ^ E. from Point Roche, distant 2 miles, is the opposite, or Fox's Point, which
may be considered to be the eastern entrance to Placentia Sound; on the western side of
this Sound is the harbor of Little Placentia, which extends W. by S. above IJ mile, and is
nearly half a mile broad'; there is good anchorage in a cove on the northern shore, which
you may know by the western side of it being woody ; off the east point of the cove lies a
shoal, stretching nearly one third across the channel ; in this cove are 7 and 8 fathoms wa-
ter. To the eastward an arm also runs in almost a league with deep water, but little fre-
quented ; it is called Placentia Sound. Fox's Harbor is a small sandy cove, fit for boats only.
SHIP HARBOR. — From Point Latina to Ship Harbor the course and distance is east
!■ -arly 7 miles ; this inlet runs up northerly two miles and three quarters, and is } a mile
40
BLUM'S AMFIIICAN COAST IMLOT.
i
wide; tlie best iinclioriige is in a cuvc on ihc west side, in 10 latlionis water, about one mile
I'nnn the entraiice.
FOX ISLAND is small and round, and liesN. E. i N. distant .'} miles from Point l^a-
tina, and N. W. I)y W. luli ;! miles iVom Sliip Harbor Point; this latter is a low stony
point, Ivinj; a mile and a (|iiarter I'rom the entrance ol'ihe harbor; between Fox's Ishinil
and .Ship Harl)or I'oint, is a ledjie of rocks, which, in bad weather, will show breakers (niiic
across; between the rocks are V^. 5, 7, and HI I'athoms water. N. N. W. one mile and a
liair from F(»x's Island is the Kishinj; Hock, a sleej) rock always above water; and .\. ;\.
K. one mile and a half from tlie Fishing Kock is Kowland's .Sunken Kock, over which the
sea most commonly breaks.
THK RAM I.SLAMJS.— Tins is a cluster of hiirh islands, lying nearly N. K. ■' K.
from Fox Island, distant ;{ miles ; on the eastern side of these islands is Loinr llarbor; there
is no (huiger in entering this ])lace, but the best anchorage will be on the norlhern side, to
the eastward of Harbor Island, between it and the main, in 0 or 7 fathoms water, where you
will ride secure from all winds.
From Lons; Harbor the shore runs N. N. E., N. by E. and North fidl 15 miles, havitur
no harbor or place fit for the reception of vessels, until yon reach Little Harbor, Little
South Harbor, and (ireat South Harbor; within this space are said to oe several low is-
lands and rocks; one of which, called the White iiock, from beirij^ covered with thedurn;
of birds, lies N. E. by N. I'rom J'oint Lalina, distant 1,'J miles, and direct mi<lway between
Fox Lsland and Little Harbor; it is abreast of a small j)lace, called Tinny Cove, and full vj
jniles oflthe land : vessels jiass on either side.
LITTLE HARJJt )R lias very bad anchorage, and is much ex|)ose(l to .S. Westerly
winds, therefore not much frequented.
LITTLE SOUTH HARBOR lies onemile to the N. Westward of Little llarbor, and
has several rocky islands at its entrance, which, in sailini; in, must b«! left on your starboard
side, excepting; one, on either side of which there is a ijood passage, with 1 o lai horns water:
on the southern shore within these islands is a sunken rock, over which the sea commonly
breaks; it lies about a cable's length from the land. Neaily opposite are also some rocks,
half a cable's length from the shore, which appear at half ebl) ; this harbor is one mile and a
half long, half a mile wide, and has 7, H, 10, and 1-J fathoms water in it ; and the irround,
except where these rocks are situated, ttderablv good.
GREAT SOUTH HARIJOR lies one mile to the northward of Little South Harbor;
its entrance is between the middle point and the Isle au Bordeaux, one mile and a ((uarter
wide, with from 20 to 30 fathoms water; there is no danger in going in, and llie anclioraiie
one mile and a halfu|), or nearthe head of the harbor, is very irood in ti and 7 falhoms water.
CHANCE HARBOR.— The Isle an Bordeaux is a hiuii round island, fnmi which the
•coast runs N. Easterly 4 miles, to the entrance of an inlet, called Come-by-t 'liance ; ilus
runs up full three miles, and lias from -JO to 3 fathoms water, gia<lu:!My decreasing in depth
unto the further end ; vessels may anchor here on a sandy bottom, but they will be (juite ex-
posed to S. Westerly winds.
NORTH HARBOR.— About N. N. W. 3 miles from tlie entrance of Come-by Chance,
is that of North Harbor ; it is above a mile wide, and there is no danger in sailing info it, but
like the former, it is too open to be trusted to ; there is, however, fair anchorage about "i
miles up, in 7 fathoms water.
PIPER'S HOLE.— N. W. by N. distant -2^ miles from the entrance to North Harbor, is
that which leads to Piper's Hole ; the channel in it is between Sound Island and the iriiiin ;
in the passage you will have 1!), 1.5, and I'J fathoms, and when to the northwar<, of the island
8, 7, and 6 fathoms ; from hence Piper's Hole runs up to the northward full Wm miles ; but
the water is shallow and unfit* for shipping. From Piper's Hole, in a S. W. (iaection, lie
Sound, Woody and Barren Islands, having a channel between them and the N. Western
shore half a mile wide, in which are from 7 to 20 fathoms, atid good anchorage all the
way ; between Woody and .Sound Island is a passage with from 7 to Kifa'lioms water in it ;
that between Woody and Barren Island is much widerand (!ee])er, having 40 and .")0 fathoms.
Opposite the northern part o{ Barren Island is a small cov»\ called f^a Plant, fit only for
boats: Barren Island is 34 miles in length, and one in breadth, it is high land, and at irs S.
Eastern part is a small cove, in which is tolerable ant hora<;e in from 8 to l(i fathoms. N.
W. by W. from the southern part of Barren Island is (4ulsh, an inlet of very little impor-
tance; furthers. W. are (rreat and Little Sandy Harbors.
(iREAT SANDY HARBOR lies W. i S. distant 4 miles from the south end of Bar-
ren Island ; to this place there is a passage between Shi]) islaiul and the main, with 7, 0,
and 17 fathoms water ; but the entrance to the harbor is vsMy narrow, and much encumber-
ed with rocks; these are all above wai?r, and have channels between them, but when you
get within the harbor there are 6 and 7 fathoms, and good shelter.
LITTLE SANDY HARBOR is a quarter of a mile to the southward of the fJreat Har-
bor; in it you will have 6 and 7 fathoms water, good ground ; in sailing in, you should pass
to the northward of alow rock, which lies at the entrance. You ma'^ readily know this har-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
41
lit ono iiiilo
bor by the Bell Islan I, which lios S. K. \ E. one inile ninl a half from thn mouth of it,
and N. E. by N. l;J iiiiios (rom tlio western point of Meraslieen Island ; this island has a
rfinarkabie appearanrc, reseuiMin;; a l)eli witli the bottom npuanls.
CLATISE HARBOR. cVe.— S. W. by S. tVoi.i Bell Island, lie the Bnrgoe Islands,
and farther soutii, llie Wliite Islands. .S. W. by \V. from flic Burijoe iMlauils, nearly 5
miles, is the cntranie to ('latise Harl)nr, between the <i;reat Isle of Valen and the main ;
the shore all alonj^ from the Saiuly Harliors is steep to, and the paasajge to C'latise three
quarters of a mile wide, with 10 and .'jit tiitlioiMs water; but the rove itself is very narrow;
the best anchorage is in the western branch, which is a mile lonn, in from 10 to 17 fathoms,
good ^ijround ; there is also a j^ood channel from the southward, between Great and Little
Valen Islands and the main, with 'JO, ."{O, and oO fathoms in it.
GRAMME ll'.S R()(,"K.">. — Tliesearea<lusterof low rooks, just appearing above water;
and lying E. by N. ■ N. 1 mile from the northern end of Valen Island; there isapa8sa<;o
between (Jreat and Little \'alen Islands, but it is encumbered with several rock«.
MERASHEEN ISLAND. — This is a Uuisj; narrow island, nimiins; nearly inthe diric-
tion of the eoast full 6 leagvies ; off its northern shores are a laruer cluster of rocks and
islands denominated the Ragged Islands. At its south-western part is a small, but good
harbor, with from (> to 10 fathoms water in it ; to sail into this place you should keep the
starboard shore on board, in order to avoid a sunken rock that lies a cable's length off a
ragged rocky point on the larboard side when going in. Tliero is also a small elusiei of
rocks lying oli' the .S. Eastern part of Merasheen, three quarters of a mile from shot j ,
these lie between it and Red Island.
RED ISLAND is high, being visible 11 or 12 leagues, and wears a barren apn :arance,
about 4y miles long, and "JV broad; its southern point bears N. N. W. distant 11 miles
from Plaeentia Road, and E. by N. 16 leagues from Mortier Head. On the eastern side
of the island, and near its northern end, is a small cove or bay, fit only for small craft.
LON(i ISLAND. — Directly N. E. from Red Island, distant 7 miles, lies the main body
of Long Island, and midway between them, is Woody Island, of!' the .S. \V. of wh'c'u are
two small rocks above water; the passage between Red and Woody Islands is otherwise
clear from dangers, and nearly three n.iles wide; that (between Woody and liong Island is
two miles acr.tss; both have deep water. Long Island is irregularly shapi-d, and indented
with inlets, its length is full eight miles, its breadth no where nmch above one ; off its
southern end is Iron Island, and a siir'll lock above water; the southern point being form-
ed of liigh and steep rocks. From Point Latina to this end of Long Island, the course
and distance are N. •'; E. 4-, leagues, and liom thence to Indian Harbor, which is situated
on the eastern siile of Merasheen Island. N. W. by W. I miles; to enterthisplnce, you may
go on either side of a small island at the entrance ; the passage is safe, but the only anchorago
is to the westward of the island, between it and Merasheen, and here the ground is uncertain.
HARBOR BUFFET. — On the eastern side of Long Island, about a league from Iron
Island is Harbor Buffet, a tolerably good hiirbor, the entrance to which is narrow, but has 13
fathoms water in it; this place may i)e known by the isl ndsthat lie inthe mouth and to the
souihward of it, and by Harbor Buffet Island, which lies E. J S. 1 mile from the entrance;
to sail into this harbor you must steer to the northward of the islands at its mouth, and being
within them, you will perceive the harbor divide into two brandies ; one running westward,
the other northward. The best anchorage is in the northern arm, in 15 fathoms water.
MUSCLE H.^RBOR. — On the western side of Long Island, and about 4 miles from its
southern end, is Muscle Harbor, the entrance to which is between a low green point on the
starboard side, and a small island on your larboard : the harbor is nearly 2 miles long, and 1
broad, and has from 10 to 20 fathoms water within it. Vessels bound to this place may run
in between Woody and Iron Islands from the southward, or between Long and Merasheen
Islands from the northward; but ^n the latter track there are some rocks to he guarded
against, which lie nearly mid-channel between the northern ends of both islands ; there aro
also some ro(^ks above water, to the north-eastward of Long Island, called the Bread and
Butter Islands, but these are always visible, and steep to.
PRESQUE. — W. N. W. ? Ni distant 4 miles from the south-western point of Mera-
sheen Island, lies the little liarhorof Presque; the water here is sufficiently deep, but there
are so many rocks about its entrance, that it is rendered thereby difficult of access. S. W. J
W. two miles from Presque, is the 151ack Rock, and a quarter of a mile within this is a sunk-
en rock. West from the Black Rock, distant 2 miles, is the Island of Marticot, about one
mile in length, and half a mile broad; within the Black Rock and Marticot Island lie the
Harbors of La Perche, and Little and Great Paradi-;e.
LA PERCFiE runs in to the northward of the Black Rock ; its entrance is difficult; and
there is no good anchorage. Little Paradise lies to the westward of La Perche, and to
the northward of the east point of Marticot Island ; the only safe anchorage is in a cove, at
the head of the harbor, on the larboard side ; there you may moor to the shore, and lie
land-locked. Great Paradise is fit only for boats ; it lies to the westw s- . '. of Little Paradise.
Between the north-western point of Marticot and i.he main, is Fox Inland ; between thes*
43
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
iMlnnds is a siifp piiRSiijcc info Pnr.i<li.ip Sound, with 9 fathoms, but vpsselx must never at-
tempt KoiiiK Ix'fwiTii Fox IsiiiiKJ iiiui the iMiiin.
I'AKADISK SOl'NU — To the wi'stwiini of Fox Island about 1 mile is the entranre
to I'aradise SouikI, i-xtc iidiiii; \. K. by 10. J Icamies, and ln'in^ about a mile iiroad ; hav-
ini; very d»'i'|) ualir fhroiiL'liiiiit, and no Hafii aiKboiaye t-xcepi at its hrad. Just wii bin
the Hound. on its eastern side is a cove, witii Kt laiiioniN water; but there are several ro» k»
abjve water in it, and tin- bot'oni is rocky, so that you eannot w»'ll an .lior tinre. In pa>s-
JiiR to the N. Westward (d Fox Island there i sunken ro( k which must be avoided. To
the S. Westward of I'ararlise Sound lies Lon sinnd, runninji; W. S. W. j S. about ^i
miles; it is princi|)allv hi&h land, makini; in sev. il jieaks.
^ PKTIT FUirr ilAKH()l{.— (Jne mile to it,.- westward of Paradise Sound lies Petit
Fort IJarbor, a very ^ood inlet, iiavin;r in it Irom 11 to7 I'atliomswater, <!ood 4;r(>niid. Tii^^mr
trance is more than a (piarter of a mile wide, and lies N.K. distant 5 miles from the south ponit
of Lonj; Island, and N. by F.vi milesfrom the north point of tlie same. 'J here is no damper in
fjoin;; in ; and the best anchor. nje is on thestarimard or eastern side, lor S. K. winds heave in a
yreat Nwcdi on the western shor<',Hhen it blows hard. Nonsuch Harbor has no good anchorage.
CAPE RO(iKil HAKHOR lies close to the westward of (ape Ho-er, which is a hi^h
round barren head, lyinij; N. I K. .'J' miles from the south point id' Lonj^ Lsland. There
are several low rocks and islands lyitic olf the eastern pomt ol'ihe entrance. In the harbor,
at a quarter of a mile within, on the western side, lies a small island to the northward of
whirli, between it and the main, is a very good anchorage in 7 or 8 fathom.s water, or I'arther
iij) in f) or 7 fathoms.
(iHEAT (JAI.LOWS IIARnOR.— N. N. W. 'J miles from the south ixdntof Long Is-
land, lies a small tJreen island, which has a shoal all round to nearly acabie's !enj:th. From
Green Island, N.N. W.'Js miles, liestireat (iallows Harbor Island, which is hii;h. \'essel»
may pass on either side of this island info (Jreat (Iallows Ihirlxir, whii h lies one mile to the
E. N. K. of tlie island. in this harbor is exc^eediiijuly jjood anclKuai^e in 7 laflioms water,
on tile starboard side, just witliin a low stony point, takinu i-are to jjive tlie |)oinf i small berth,
ill order to avoul a rock which is alternately eovercd and uncovered wiili the tide.
LITTLE (JALLOWS IIARIJOR lies close round to the eastward of (ireat (iallows
Harbor, and is only fit for small vessels, which must be moored t«) the sliorc ; a rock above
water lies at the entrance ; and the two hari)ors are only divided by a narrow neck of land. ,
To the nortii-westward of fireat (iallows tiarbor are l^ittle llarljor. May de L'Kau, and
Boat Harbor; tiie first of tliese is only (it for boats; Bay de li'Jviu nms in a t'ul! leagriie,
J.. and has deep water all the way up, exceju at its iiead, wiiere there appears a sandy beach.
''1^ .Here vessels may ride in 3 fathoms.
:'*?'.?'?,'■, BOAT HAllBOIl lies round the western point of Ray de L'ICau, off which is. a roek
■*«im/e water; tiiis harbor runs up N. E. ." '"its. "'tli deep water, until you ^'et near its
furtlietend. Tlie iand from iienci' runs S^^'estward to Rane Harbor ; this lies on the
main land, and is fronted by several islands, tlie largest of which is callcil Cross island,
being two miles in lengtii, and one in bre.ultii ; tlie other isbuids are named (ii.iiseberry,
Pettieoat, Gull, and Jerseyiiian's Islands, and are situated between Cross Island and the main.
BANE HARBOR is a good place for small vessels its entrance is narrow, but when
you are within it, tiiere is snlTi iont room to moor with .l fathoms water, 'i'here are gooil
clianncla between all these islamls, throusih wlii(;h vessels may pass to the harbors a' the
northward. One mile and three ([iiarters S. W. 4Vom Bane Harbor is Rashonn ; too slial-
low for any vessels : and about the same distance Irom Raslioon is iiroad Cove; liere the
anchorage is exceedingly good, witli 8 and 0 fathoms water; it li<\s to tlie nurth-eastward
of a point of land, which juts out, and is named iiroad Cove li(>ad.
RED HARiiOR lies three miles from Broad (.'ove Head, iiiid is n (jood harbor, but too
open to the southward ; in it are 17, 1.3, and 9 fathoms ; S.W. lidin Ik tice, distant .'}■. miles,
and situated on the main, is .fidin le Bay ; in your passage to wliicii, and nearly mid-chan-
nel, botiveen Flat Islands and tlie shore, is a cluster of small islands wirh deep water all
round tiicm: and further on, near the land, is a rock above water; you may sail on either
side of tills; the cha'inel between it and the lind is narrow, and !i is 17 fathoms: tha' on
tlie e'.stern, or outside, has IP, 2.'), and •2() fatlioms, and leads diiectly out to Placentia I'ay.
AUDH'-RNE ISLAND lies half a mile to the northward of Cape .Tude or Middle Is-
land, on the west side of wliieh there is a tolerably good harbor. At about a cable's length
from \udierne Island, to the southward of the harbor, is a sunken rock; tlie mark for
avoiding which, in coining in from the southward, is not to haul in for the iiarbor till you
open a remarkable green point on the southern side of the harbor. The best anchorage
is on the north shore, just within a small islanti. A spit of rocks stretches just off the
Green Point on tlie south shore, which is covered at high water.
Vessels bound for Audierne Harbor-may pass between C,\\)e .lude or Middle Island and
Audierne Island ; and l)€tweeu Crow and Patrick's Island, whicli are two small islands
Iving off the S. W. point of Audierne Island. Off tlie eastern point of Audierne is
Ford's Island, to the west of which is a sunken rock, about a cable's length from
the island, and another on the eastern side, which almost always breaks. W. by N. about
ist never at-
lie entrance
iroad; Ijiiv-
.luKt wiiliin
•venil roi kn
'. In pit.sH-
^((ided. To
.S. Hbi)Ut 3^
1(1 lies Petit
il. 'ri^rimr
south point
u) (l:in!{i-r in
slicave in ;\
iinrhoraye.
h is A liii^li
ntl. Theic
the harbor,
orthward of
r, or lartlu-r
of Long Is-
.'th. Kroin
1. \'csselH
mile to the
loins water,
small berth,
e.
■at (iailows
1 rock above
'ck of land. ,
L'Kau, and
I'ijII league,
indy beach.
Il is. a roek
;et near its
ies on I lie
OSS Island,
(.oscberry,
(1 tlio main.
i)ut when
are i^ood
bor-! a' the
; too slial-
: here the
i-eastward
or. but too
t 'A: miles,
iii'd-chan-
p water all
il on either
s : tha' on
I'ntia I'ay.
Middlr Is-
le's leiii;th
mark for
)or till yon
;mchorage
list off the
Island and
lall islands
udieine is
Qgth from
N. about
ULII.NT H AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
43
Ij mile from Kord'n Island is (Sreen Island, having a little roeky islet offits cn^tern, and an-
other olf it.i western ends; there is dee|) water all round it, 11 taihoms close tu the rocky
i.ilets, 70 fathoms between it and Kurd s Island, 7.'t and (iU lalhoms between it and Loiif^
Island, and still det-per watrr towards the (fallows Harbors.
'I'lIK SADDLK l>\ri\ is aiiislei lyiii'^ K, N. I•;.^i leaiiur- IrnmCorbin Head ; K.by N.
from Alortier W e-t I'omc, and K. ,' S. .{ Ifayues from .lohn iln' Hay Poiiii. IJeiweeii it and
the main are a i;reat number of rocks and little islands, which render this part of the eoaitt
vtrv dangerous. A chain of rocks extends N. K. bv K. - miles (rom the .Saddlf IJack.
(''AI'K J 1 l)K. or >ll DDLK IS LA NO, isaboiu J ; mil.-s in l.-n^th, -J in breadth, and lieH
I ■, mile nortii of the Saddb* I'ael; ; on the soiitli end ol it is a loiind hill, which is called the
(Ja| e. lietween tliis i-^laixl and the main are a cluster ol' islands and low roi-ks willia^^reat
number of sunken rocks about them, called the Flat Islands, the iniierniost of which li^s
about one mile tfom the main.
West ;)i miles from the .S. Kastern Flat Island, and two miles to the N. N. W. of John the
Hay I'oint, lies John tlie Hay ; in which liiere is tolerable truud anchorage, with about 8 fath-
oms water, sandy bottom.
K<K;K HAl<i!(*K. — From John the Hay Point to Mortier Rast Head, the bearint; and
distance are .'^. \V i W. H miles. 'I'wd mill's S. W. i>y W. from .lohn the Itay Point lies
Uock Harbor, not fit tor shipping. Hetween He two sunken rocks, nearly hall a mile from
(lie shore.
.MUR THCIl HA v.— Two miles \V. S. \V. fioni Hock Ila.bor isthe openin',' into Mortier
I5ay, at the western entrance of wliicli is a small harl)or, called Holioy, of only Jl feet water.
The course into .Mortier liay is N. N. K. for abont tv^'o miles; and in il there are from .')(> to
70 fathoiin water, the bind on f',\c\i side bnii^ iiiuh; it then rxiciids westward about two
miles, and i ■• nearly two miles wide. ( >ii the easier-i sidr-. at about three miles from the en-
train e, is aa e<ccfdin^ly ;;(iod Inrlior, called S, atush Koom. in which vessels may anchor,
in from 4 to fi fathoms vv;iter, uood ground, anil sec^nre from all winds. There is not the least
daiiiier in yoioir into tliis harlior. <inly ^ivini: the low rocks above water, on the larl)oard hand
at tile entrance, a berth of one cable's length.
LrrTLL .MOKTIKK I5AV.— Two mdos and a half from the entrance of Mor^.er Bay
/ lies Croney Poim and Islands; about two miles further southward, and nearly a n'de west-
ward of M(utier Last Point, is Li'tle .Mortier l?ay. at the entrance of which isa roi.nd island.
called Mortier Island, 1> iti;,Mtiie third id the distance from the west side ; it is bold to all round,
aad may be passed oneiiher sifle. (lose to the fust point beyond the island, on the larboard
side, goiii'^ ill. is another little i.-land. close under the land ; and two cables' length from it in
a direct liiie towards the outer island, is a sunken rock, on w liicli the sea breaks in bad wea-
ther, which is the only danger in the bay. .\t the bottom of it, 1 , mile from Mortier Island, on
the east side, isa cove, called I'"ox ' 'ove, where there is fair anchoraj^e, and room for one
8tii|) to moor in ;• fathoms, "rood Inddiiii jiround, two points ojien to tlie sea, from S. S. E.to
S. K. On the west side ol'ihe bay is tin- harbor, which is suiall and iiariow ; but a very good
one for small ships, wli'-n' they lie moored t;» the shore. Olf the starboard point, going in,
is a rock, which is alway.s covered at hi^^li water.
One mile and a half .S. W. by W. from Mortier F.ast Point lies Mortier West Head, one
mile beyond which is Iron Island ; and .S. K. \ K.2 leainies iioiii Iron Island, and S. W. |-
W. o leagues from Oajie .hide, lies the .Mortier Hank, the shoal part of which is about one
leasjuc over, and on which there are said to be only 4 fathums. The .«ea breaks heavily on
il in blowin<; weather.
IIIO.N ISL.V.N'l) is small and hi^jh ; ofi'its 8. \V. point is a roek underwater; three quar-
ters of a mile to the southward of it is (ire<rory's Hock. S. 1^ \V. | of a mile from which is
(talloping Andrews; and .S. K. by F from Iron Island is the White Horse of 8 fathoms: a
W. 8. W. course from Marticot's Island will clear all these daiiiieis.
(iRFAT AND LITTLK HIIKLN' HAKBOH8.— 8. W. • W. from Iron Island, dis-
tant one league is the 8. F. point of (ireat Hurin Island; and \V. N. \V. \', mile from it is
the north part of Pardy's Island. On the main, within these islands, lie the harbors oftireat
and Little Hurin. \'essels bound for Hurin may pass on either side of Iron Island ; the only
danger in pa.ssing to the northward is the ledsje called iheHrandys.which almost always breaks;
they lie near a (piarter nf a mile to the southward of a low rock, above water, close under the
land of Mortier West Head. Hy keeping .Mortier West Head open to the westward <•; Iron
Island, you will avoid (-Iregory's Hock, cm which is oidy 'J fathoms water, and whic'i almost
always breaks. V'essels may pass with safety between this rock and Iron Island, by giving
the latter a berth of above a cable's length.
(iALLOPIN(i ANDRE W8.— On the main, within Tardy's Island, are two remarkable
white marks in the rocks ; the northernmost of these brought on with the north |»arl of Par-
dy's Island, and iron Island N. E. ^ N. will lead on the Galloping Andrews, a shoal with 5
fathoms water on it.
The White Horse is a shoal with 8 fathoms on it, which bears S. £• by E. one mile from.
Iron Island.
/'
44
BLUNTS AWERIPAN COAST PILOT.
TliP I)o(l(lin<; Rock lies about » (|iinrtL>r of u mile from the rsiHtommont part of Great
Burin'rt hliind.
(Jreiit IJiiriii Island \h about '2\ miles in length, lying N. N. K. and S. S. W. beinif hiph
land ; near its suutli end is Cat Island, hi^li and round, lyio); K. N. E. nearly 4 miles from
Corbin Head,
From Ciirbiii Head to Slialloway Point tlie bearing and distame are N. K. \ N. 4\ miles.
Detween tlieni, audiitsuly in llu- same direciion, lie Corbin and Little Hurin Islands, both
high and round, not nnii*; than a < iil)le'H Icnzlli Ironi the sliore.
SHALLOWAV ISLAM) lies N. N. W. ', \V. one mile from Cat Island, and N. K by
£.a (juarter of a mile from Little Hurin Island: the |)assaire into Hurin Harbors, from the
■outhwaril, is to tht; westward ol Slialloway Island.
In iiailiug in, take care to give Poor Island a berth on your larboard hand : and when witlnn
Shalloway Islaiul, you may amlior in salety between it and (ireat Hurm Island, in t. ni I'i
to 18 fathoms. The best am lioraLie in (ireat Hurin Harbor is in Ship Cove. The course
up to it, after you are within Neck P')int, which is to the westward of the Shalloway Island,
is N. N. E. about I mile. It is nearly a (|u irter of a mile wide: in sailing up, keep the
west shore on board, in order to avoid a sunken rock on the east shore, at about half v/ay
up, and near a cable's length from the shore. iJirectly oil this is a remarkable hole in tile
rock, on the same side, and a gully in the land from toj) to bottom, on the western shore.
Another rock, wii^Ji \.' fathoms on it. lies above a ( able's Icimtli to the S. \V. of Harbor
Point, which is round and green, and ol a moderate height, joined to llreat IJurin Island
by a low narrow, sandy neck.
B(TRIN I)AV is about one mile N. N. E. of Little Hurin Island ; it is clear, and about
a mile wide every way : here ships may occasionally anciior, and lie almost land-locked.
In this bay are two i.slainls, one called Poor Island, low and i)arreii ; the othe lies to the
northwani, before the entrance of Hurin Inlet, and is high an 1 woody.
BUKIN INLET may be entered (m either side of tlie island; it extends up .'> miles; a
little wiiliiu the eiitrani e on the cast side, half a cable's length from the shore, is a rock
covered at threc-(|uarter's flood ; and J ■' iiide from the entrance, near the middle, is another
rock, to the westward of which is good room and fair anchorage, in from 7 to V2 fathoms.
There are 1,") fathoms in tin? entrance; and, in the middle, "J miles up, l.'j to 'J.'5 fathmns;
and thence up to the head are fioin 10 to 5 fathoms.
The east passage in i> between Pardy's Island and Iron Island ; but is not safe without a
commanding gale, and tliat between the N. N. E. and S. E.
CORBIN ilARBOH is about a u\\W to the northward of (Sorbin Head, and is a good har-
bor for small vessels. A quarter of a mile eastward from this harbor, and '2 cables' length
from the shore, is a sunken rock, of.*) or (J feet water, on which the sealneaks in bad weather.
Vessels bound for this harbor must also avoid a shoal of 1? fathoms water, which lies E. S. E.
from the south point of the entrance, distant half a mile ; the liest am horaue is in the north
arm, about half a mile within the entrance, opposite a cove on the starboard side.
From Corbin Head, which is high, blutVland, to Small Point, the lowest hereabout, the
course and distance are W. S. W. J^ miles ; and from Small Point to Saiiker I lead W. A S. 2
miles: there are many head-lands between, which form coves, but alford no shelter. The
coast is clear of rocks ; and there are 30 fathoms water close to the shore ; but a little to the
S. Westward of Sauker Head there is a small rock underwater; it lies close in with the land.
From Sauker Head, which is a high hill in the shape of a sugar loaf, to Cape Chapeau
Rouge, the bearing and distance are West, 3 miles; between he the harbors of Great and
Little St. Lawrence.
LITTLE ST. LAWRENCE.— The harbor of Little St. Lawrence is the first to the
westward of Sauker Head. To sail in, you must keep the west shore on board, to avoid a
sunken rock, which lies a little without the point of the peninsula, which stretches off from
the east side of the harbor. The anchorage is above the peninsula, (which shelters it from
the sea-winds,) in 3 or 4 fathoms water, a fine sandy bottom. Ships may anchor without the
peninsula in 12 fathoms, good ground, but this place is open to S. S. E. winds.
GREAT ST. LAWRENCE.— The harbor of Great St. Lawrence, which isthe western-
most, is close to the eastward of Cape ('hapeau Rouge. To sail in you should be careful with
westerly, particularly with S. W. winds, not to approach too near the Hat Mountain, in order
to avoid the flaws and eddy winds under the high land. There is no danger but what is very
near the shore. The course in is, first, N. N. W. till you open the upper part of the harbor,
then N. ^ W. The best anchorage for large ships is before a cove, on the east side of the
harbor, in 13 fathoms water. A little above Blue Beach Point, which is the first on the
west side, you may lie, only having two points open: and may anchor any where between
this point and the point of Low Beach, on the same side, near the head of the harbor, observ-
ing that, close to the west shore, the ground is not so good as on the other side. Fishing
vessels commonly lie at the head of the harbor above the beach, sheltered from all winds.
Garden Bank, whereon are from 7 to 16 fathoms water, lies about half a mile off Little
St. Lawrence, with Blue Beach Point on with the east point of Great St. Lawrence.
FERRVLA
high rocky islai
objects to point
LA IN HAV
whence the Ian
inlets, railed ih
winds, and ther
is near half a mil
a sunken rock,
is on the east
tuin, and open
bead of this p|;
for fishing, with
LACN !SLA
rrninost and out
Nearly a (|uartet
ill very bad weat
being verv near t
TAYLOR'S
Olf the ea«!t poin
POINT AC.X
westward of Tav
(iaul Shag Kock
It fathoms close
Shag Ro( k to tli
between is the Hii
ral islands and ro
Near the south
Lamelin .Shag R
between lie the I
from the land. '
to the .southward
Hteer northward I
Dearer than in 30
REMARK.—
appearance of th*
close to the sea ;
elin to Point Mai
comes mouiitaiiK
ST. PIERRE
W. by N. from (.
high, with a cragi
which is the S. K
rated from St. P
innermost of whi(
of St. Pierre. 'I
across the entran
hes on the W. sid
water. The best
to the N. E. wine
a mile E. S. E. f
tioned : this is th
harbor has lately
THE ISLAN
is rather high ; b^
On the north side
of a mile E. N. I
GREEN ISL^
about 5 miles froi
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
45
t of Oreal
lieinK high
iiiilft fruin
i. 4\ niilfs.
lands, both
iiH N. K hy
H, Iroin tlie
'li»'n within
in t. <ni 13
l"he course
wuy Uland,
), keep the
It half v/ay
hole in the
ern shore,
(if Harbor
iirin Island
', and about
ind-lookcd.
lies to the
5 miles; a
p, is a rock
', is another
12 faihouiB.
13 fathoms ;
e without a
a f:ood har-
)ks' length
id
weather.
s H. S. K.
the north
n1)out, the
W.iS.-2
er. "The
itile to the
1 the land,
f'hapeau
(ireat and
first to the
to avoid a
^s off from
ers it from
'ithout the
le western-
areful with
in, in order
hat is very
he harbor,
side of the
irst on the
e between
or, obserr-
Fishing
all winds.
off Little
ence.
FROM CITArE.MT ROrOK TO C.VPE RAY.
FF.RRVLANI) HEAD lies W, S. W. one mile from f'ape Chapcau Roiu;*-; it ix a
high rocky island, just separated Ironi 'he iniin, and with Chapeau Kiiu<;«*, are infallible
objects to point out the harbors of .*<t. Ijawreiire.
LAIN MA v.— W. N. W. h miles Irom Kerryland Head, lies the I'oint of F.aun, from
whence the land "irns to the northward, and tome, the Hays of Latin; here iire two small
inluts, calleii (Jrtatand Little Laun. Little Laiin is the easternmost, lies open to the S. W.
winds, and theret'ore is no place to anchor in. (ireat Laun runs in N. K. by iN. V miles;
is near half a mile wide, and has from It to .'( tathoms water. In sailin;; in be careful to avoir)
a sunken rock, which lies altoiit a (piarter of a mile otf the ea-<t fioitit. The best aiicliora^e
is on the east side, about half a mile from the head, in *> and '> iathoms, tolerably t'ood bot-
tom, and open only to the South and S. by W. winds. whi< h cause a uretit swell, as the
head of this place is a bar harbor, whi'te boats can ascend at halt tide, and find convenieiiceA
for fishing, with both wood and water.
L.VUN I.SLA M)S lie olf the west point of Laun l»ay, not farfrom the shore; the wpst-
prniMost and outermost of whu ii lies \\'. N. W. westerly II miles Irom h'erryland Head.
Nearly a (|uarterol a mile ff» the soiitliward of this island is a rock, whereon the sea breaks
ill very bad weather; there are other sunken roc ks about these islands, but not dangerous,
being very near the shore.
'PA V L( *K'.S HA V lies open to ihr sea, aliout four miles to the westward of Laun Islands.
Olftlie east point are some rocks, near a (|iiarter of a mile from the shore.
I'OINT AI'X (JaI'L is a low, narrow jminf of land, which sirefdies out a little to tho
westward of Taylor's Hay: a rock lies olf it above water, half a mile from the shore, called
(iaul Shag Kock, which bears from Kerry land He;id W. N. W. ,' \V. (!.V leagues: there are
M fathoms close to tiie offside of it, but some rocks on its inside. From I'oint Aux Gaul
Shag Kock to the Lamehii Islands, the beariM'j and distance are N. W. by W. one league;
between is tlie Hay of Lamelin, which is until (or shipping, being shallow, and having seve-
ral islands and rocks about it ; the river at the bottom of the bay abounds with salmon.
Near the south |)oiiit of the westernmost Lamelin Island is a rock high above water, called
Lamelin .Shag Kock. From Lamelin Shag ISook to Point .May. the distance is 9 miles;
between lie the Lamelin Ledges, whidi are very dangerous, some of them being 3 miles'
from the land. To avoid them, in the day time, you should not bring the Lamelin Islandsi
to the southward of E. .S. E. until Point May bears N. E. by N. t'romyou; you may th?i>
steer northward between Point May and Green Island w ith safety. By night, approacb no
nearer than in .30 fathoms water.
REMARK. — Mariners who navigate this part of the coast, will do well by observine the
a|)pearance of the land, for all that part of Chapeau Koiige and Laun is very hig'i and nilly
close to the sea ; from Laun Islands to Lamelin, if is only moderately high ; ami from Lam-
elin to Point May, the land, near the shore, is low, with beaches of sand, while inland it be-
comes mountainous.
ST. PIERRE, or ST. PETER'S ISLAND— The island of St. Pierre lies Vi leagues
W. by N. from Cape Chapeau Rouge; it is about 4 leagues in circumference, and pretty
high, with a craggy, broken, uneven surface. On coming from the westward. Point Cronier,
which is the S. E. point of the island, makes in a round hummock, like a small island, sepa-
rated from St. Pierre. A little to the N. E. of Point Cronier lie three smai' islands, the
innermost of which is the largest, and called J)og Island; within it are the road and harbor
of .St. Pierre. The harbor is small, and has from '..'(> to li feet water; but there is a bar
across the entrance, with only six feet at low water, and TJ or 1-1 at high water. The road
lies on the W. side of Dog Island, and will admit ships of any burthen in 8, 10, or 12 fathoms
water. The best anchorage is on the north side; but in general it is rocky, and exposed
to the N. E. winds. Be cautious, in going in or out, of some sunken rocks, which lie about
a mile E. .S. E. from Boar Island, which is the easternmost of the three islands above men-
tioned : this is the only danger about .St. Peter's, but what lies very near the shore. This
harbor has lately been improved by the erection of a lighthouse.
THE ISLAND OF COLOMBIER lies very near to the N. E. point of .St Pierre, it
is rather high ; between them is a passage one-third of a mile wide, with 12 fathoms water.
On the north side of the island is a rock, called Little Colonibier; and about one-quarter
of a mile E. N. E. from it is a sunken rock, with 2 fathoms on it.
GREEN ISLAND is about three quarters of a mile in circuit, and low ; it lies E. N. E.
about 5 miles from St. Pierre, and oearly in the middle of the channel, between it and Point
,'■
/
46
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
K.|
Miiy, in NewfounHlmid ; on its south sifle are several rocks above and under water, extend-
ing'l j mile to tiie \V. S. W.
LANGLKV, or LlT'l'LK MlqUHLON— liansjiey Island lies to the N. W. of St.
Pierre, witli a piissa^je <it' alxiut 'J', mill's wide bciwti'n, iVce I'rom danger, it is al)oiit ft
lei^ues in circuit, of a moderate and eijual height, e\'-e|)tin<r at the north end, wiiicli is a
low point, with sand liills ; otJ" wliich, on both sides, it is a (lat a little way ; but every otlifr
j)art of the island is bold to. There is anchora^ie on the N. H. side oftiic island, near .Seal
Cove, in 5 or H I'atlionis, a little to the southward ofiliesand hills, on a line sandy bottom.
(illKAT Mim'KLON. — Krom the north in>int oiLaniiley to the south point of .Mitpic-
lon, the distance is scarcely one uiile, and the depth of water between is vJ I'athoms. ,Mi-
quelon is 4 lea};ues in lens^tii from north to soutli, and is about .5 miles in breadth at the
widest part: the middle of the island is hi'^h land, called the llifih Lands of Dunne; but
down by the shore it is low, excepting Cape Mi(|uelon, which is a Kdty promontory at the
northern extremity of the island.
On the 8. K. side of the island is tlie little Harbor of Dunne; it is a bar harbor, admitting
fishing shallops at half flood, but no way ealculat»'<l for shipping.
Mii]ueii;p Hocks stretch olf from the eastern point af the island, tinder the hiijh land, 1 \
mile to the eastward : some are aliove, and s(mie imder water; ihe oiUermnst are above
water, and there are 1-2 fathoms water close to them, with IH and -JO a mile oiV. N.
E. about 4V miles from these rocks, lies iVIi(]uelon Hank, on which are (> fathoms wafer.
Miquelon Rortd, which is larire and spacious, lies towards the iu)rth end, and on the east
side of the island, between Cape .Mi<pie!on and ( 'hapeau, which is a very remarkable ronial
mountain near the shore, olf wh'ch are sou-e suidven rocks, at the distance of about a rpiar-
tcrofa mile; but every where else it is clear of darrjer. The best anchorage is in 6 or 7
fathoms, near the bottom of the road, on fine sandy bottom; but there you lie exposed to
easterly winds.
The Seal ilocks, two in number, are aI)ove water, and lie about IV league ofl" from the
north-west side ofMi(|uelon; the passage betwt en them and the island is very safe, and
there are 14 or lH fathoms water within a cable's lenclh, all round them.
Point May has a rocky islet at its point, and from thence the land tuins N. N. E. towards
Dantziek Cove and I'-unt, and thence K. N. E. towards Fortune Head.
FORTUNE J5A Y, dec. — From Point May to Pass Islaiil, the Lc ring and distance arr
N- \ E. 12 leagues; between them is the entrance to I'ortune Hay, ivhich is about -"J vr
23 leagues deep; and in which are nu!iu>rous bavs, harbors, and islands.
BRUNET ISLAND.— The Island of lirunet lie icarly in the nuddle of the entrance
into Fortutte Bay ; it is above .'i miles in length, two .n breadth, and of moderate height;
tlie eastern part appears, in some points of view, like islands ; on its K. side is a bay. wherein
there is tolerable anchorage for ships, in 14 or lU fathoms water, slieltered from southerly
and westerly winds. In the bottom of the bay, at aijoui a (piarterof a mile from the slioie,
are some rocks, which must be avoided. Oj)posito to this bay, on the south-west side of
the island, is a small cove, with (i fathoms water. The islands lying ofl' the west end of
Brunet, to the southward, ari called the little iirunets, which, willi Urunet, may be ap-
proached within a quarter of a n ile all round.
■The Plate Islands are three rocky islets, of a moflerate heisiht, the in'an'st of which lies
W. 8. W. one league from the west end of (jreat Brunet. The sonthermnost is about 'J
mites farther off, and bears from ('ape Miquelon E. ^ S. .3,' leagues ; and in a direct line be-
tween Point May and Pass Island. 17 miles fiom the former, and 1') miles fVmu the latter.
E. S. E. a quarter of a mile from fhe(ire;it Plate, (which is the nrnthernmost.) is a siud\en
rock, whereon the sea breaks, and this is the oidy danger ai)out them. There are several
strong and irregtilar settings of the tides or currents about the Plate and Brunet Islands,
which seem to have no dependency on the moon and the course of the tides on the coast.
SAGOiNA ISLAND, which lies N. K. 2 leai;ues from the east end of Brumn, is about a
mile across each way, of a moderate height, and bol!': to all round ; on its western siile (here
is a sniall creek admitting fishing shallops; in the i.iiddle of the eiUranee to this, is ;» sunken
rock, which occasions it to be difficult of access, except in very line weather; a sa-.d b.ink
surrounds this island, running westerly full 7 miles, upon which are 14, 17, and 20 luihonis
water.
POINT MAY is the southern extremity of Fortune Bay. and the S. W. extremity of
this part of Newfoundland ; it may be kimwn by a great black rock, nearly joining to the
pitch of the point, aiul something higher thati the land, which maktts it look like a black
hummock on the point. At about a quarter of a nule directly off from this black rock are
three sunken rocks, on which the sea always breaks.
DAN rZIC COVES.— N. by E. 1/ of a mile from Point May, is Little Dantzic Cove;
and 2 miles farther is (treat Uant/ie (Jove. F^rom Dant/.ic I'oint (which is the north
point of the (Joves) to Fortune Head, the bearing and distance are E. N. E. 2! leagues;
and thence to the town of Fortune, 1^ mile S. E. by E. This is a wishing village, and the
road where tl
coin) 'iss. It
Diuitzic Poii
tending fVfUu
.SHIP CO
Fortune. 'J'
sliippini; in H
Grand Bank
ri(> security i\
From tlie (
laiice H leagu
imv, with sev(
the principal
known by scvi
llie oulerniiisi
siiiikeii rocks
vessels somcti
llie sea winils
ward of the
rocks lying of
in the middle
liom I'oint M
length, and :!(
so deej), and !
the land-wind.'
From I'oint
to (irind Jeiv
the south sidi
extent, the lat
BAV l/Al
g( lit, wliere ll
HARIiOK
point of 1/Arg
at a distance, ;
lying t(t (lie S.
lU'twecn this 1
beaches: but i
but it must be
CapeMiUcl
,1 leagues liom
of Fcutuiie Ba
low, if becuuH
ca|)e the lanil
miiiatcd by a Ic
this, and in all
buildim: staae
(iUAND L
league from tl
MO danger in g
from all wimi-
KNtiLISil
ward of Fngli.
for I oats.
NEW HAl
(le L'Kau : it
l'at)n)Mis, shelti
TH'O llAR
row, and has ii
rocks above w
only for boats
water.
HARBOR
this are some i
there arc also
in is on the wt
begin to open I
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
47
water, extend-
N. W. of St.
It is aliom H
ikI, wliidi is a
ut every other
and. near Scul
sandy lioltoni.
lint III" Mi(|nc-
atlioMis. .Mi-
brt-adih at the
t' Dniiiie ; Imt
rioiitory at the
bor, ndinitting
: high land, 1}
Hist are above
oiV. N. E. i
iionis water,
nd (Ml tlie cast
arkable ronnd
:'al)()Ut a f|\iar-
H;e is in 6 or 7
lie exposed to
le ofl" (Vnni tlie
very safe, and
N. E. towards
id distanee av,
is about "J'J ir
f the entrance
eiate heii;iit ;
bay, wiiereiti
oni sontiierly
ini the shdie,
i-west si(h' iif
e west end of
, may be ap-
ofwliieli lies
ost is al)()nt '2
ilireet line be-
iini »lie latter.
,) is a sufdien
e are several
nnct Islands,
on the eoast.
net, is about a
111) side iliere
, IS ;) sunken
a sa,,d b.Hik
id'JU ii>iiio:ns
extremity of
.linine to the
k like a bl-.-.ck
lack rock are
antzic Cove ;
is the north
. j! leagues ;
lage, and the
road where the ships lie ha.s from 6 to 10 fathowi;. water, quite exposed to nearly half the
roin) ass. It lies S. by \V. from the east end of Unmet. To the N. N. Westward of
Danf/.ie Point is the Ion;? narrow bank oi' .Jersey man's, with '^4 and 25 fathoms over it, ex-
leiidm^ (Vom aiireast of the point in the direciioii of the Plate Islands.
.SIIJP C()\'E. — The Cape of (irand Hank is hi'ih. and lies one leasiue E. N. E. from
Fortune. 'J'o the eastward of tiiis eapc is .Ship Cove, wliere there is icood anchorage lor
sliippiii.: in H or 10 tatiionis water, shcliercfl from south, west, and N. Westerly winds.
Grand Bank lies S. K. half a leaque from tlie Cape, and is a fishint; village, where there is
no security for shinpinjj, and the entrance is barred.
From the ("ape ol the (irand IJank to thv^ Point Enragi'-e. the course is E. N. E. | E. dis-
taiice ri lcas;ues; tlie coast between I'oriiis a circular bay, in whi<;h the shore generally is
liiw, with several sandy beaches, lii'hind which are bar-harbors, tit only for boats, of which
the principal is (Jreat (iarnish, lying 4 ': leagues from the Cape of (irand Bank; it may be
known by several rocks above water lying before it at two miles distance from the sVoro,
(lie outermnst of tli-se is steep to ; but between them and the shore are several dangerous
sunken rocks. To 'he eastward, and within these rocks, is ^'rcMichinan's (Jove, where .small
vessels sometimes run in and anchor in 4 or.'j lathoms water, tolerably well sheltered from
till' sea winds ; thi-i is a convenitMit place for the cod lishery ; the passage in is to f.he east-
ward of the rocks that appear the highest above water : between them and some other lower
rocks lying off to the eastward of the ea^t point of the Cove, there is a sunken rock nearly
in the middle of the passage, v.liich you must be aware o(. 'I'he shore is bold dl the way
liotM Point May to C'ape oi' (irand Bank, there being 10 or 12 lathoms within 2 cables'
length, and .'50 or 40 at a mile olf : be;«een the latter and (Jreat (Iarnish the water is not
so deep, and ships may anchor any where in H or 10 fathoms water, sheltered only from
the land-winds.
Fniiii Point Enragee to the head of the bay. the course is. first, E. N. E. J E. ,3 leagues
to (irind Jeivey ; then 1",. ^ N. 71 leagues to the head of the bay : the land in general along
the south side is high, bold to, and of uneven ajijiearance, with hills and valleys of varioiLS
extent, the latter mostly cov«ued with wood, and having many fresh water rivulets.
BAV L'AI\(iEXT. — Seven leagues of the eastwanl of Point Enragee is the Bay L'Ar-
gfiit, \vliere there is anchorage in :iO or 40 t'at!i(,i!is water, sheltered Iroin all winds.
nARl'.()f{ MILLE'. — The entrance to Harbor Milb" lies to the eastward of the east
jioint of LArgent. Before this harlior. atid the Bay L'Arsrent. is a remarkable rock, which,
at a distance, appears like a shallop under sail. Harbor Milh'; branches into tw.^ arms, one
lying to tlie .'>. E. the other to the east ; at the upper part of both are good anchorages.
Ik'iuet n this harlior and Point Eiira.'r'''e are several liar-liarbors, or small bays, tVith sandy
heaches : inu ihe water all alonij the coast is very deep ; you may safely anchor any where,
but it must be very near the shore.
Cape Milit' lies .\. E. J E. one leigiie from the Shallow Rock above mentioned, and near
,1 leagues (loni the head cf l'\i:tune Bay : it isahi-jh reddish barren r(»cl;y point. The width
of I'ortiine Bay at ('apeMiili- does not muc'i exi-t-ed half a l.amie; but, immediately be-
low, it becomes twice as wide, by whi( !i the ('ape may readily be known; and above this
cape the land on bmli sides is high, wiih steep craguy cliffs. The head of the bay is ter-
ininat(!d by a low beach, behind which is a large pond, or bar-harbor, fit only for boats. In
this, and in all the bar harbors between this and Mie (irand Bank, are convenient places for
Ijiiililimr sta::es, and l;(h .1 beaches for dryiii'^ fish, fitted to accommodate numerous boats^
(ilxANI) !jI", PlEKltE is a jrocnl liaibor. situated on the north side of the bav, half a
league from the head. Tlic entrance cannot b- seen until you are abreast of it; there is
no danger in going in, ami yon may anchor in any depth from 8 to 4 fathoms, sheltered
from all winds.
E.\(iljISIl n \RB()!l lies a little to the wpstwani of (^rand Pierre; and to the west-
ward of Engli.sh Harbor is the Little Bay de L'Eau, both of which are small, and only fit
for 1 oats.
NEW HARBOR is situated opposite to Caj)© Mill*', aid to the westward of the Bay
(le Ij'Eaii ; it is a smill inlet, and iias good anchorage oti the west side, in tVoin 8 to 5
fatlniiiis, sheltered froii' S W. winds.
TH'O IIAI1B(,)K FE.M.MK lies half a league to the westward of New Harbor, it is nar-
row, and has in it 2') and 2'.i lathotm ; before its entrance is an islet, near to which are some
rocks above water; one lea/ue to the westward of Harbor Femme is Brewer's Hole, fit
only for boats ; before this cove is also a small island near the shore, and some rocks ibove
wat( r.
HARI)()1( LA (ONTE is situated one mile to the westward of Brewer's Hole; before
this are some islands, the outer one is called the Petticoat Island, the inner Smock Island,
there are also two smaller ones between these, and a sunken rock or two ; the best passage
in is on the west side of the outer island, and between the two larger ones; so soon as you
harbor, keep the inner island close oa board, to avoid some sunken rocks
begi
open I
48
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
that lie near a small island, which you will discover between the N. E. point of the otiter
island, and the opposite point on the main : tliere is also another rock wliirh appears at
low water, and lies hinlicr up on the side of the main , and when yon fiet beyond these
dani^ers, you may keep in tiie middle ot' the channel, and will soon open a fnie spacious
harbor, where:n you may anchor in any depth, from ti to Ki fathoms water, on a bottom of
sand and nuid, shut in from all winds. To the eastward of the outer island there is a small
cove lit for sin;dl vessels and boats, and otherwise convenient for the fisheries.
LONG HARBOR lies 4 miles to the westward of Harbor La Conte, and N. E. by E.
distant 5 leagues from Point Enriigt'-e. It may be known by (Jull Island, which lies at its
mouth, and a small rock, which lies half a mile without the island, and has the a|)pearance
of a small boat; there is a passay;e into this harbor on each side of this island, the western
one is the broader of the two ; nearly in the middle of this channel, a little outside of the
island, is a ledge of rocks, whereon is two fathoms water ; and a little w^ ;iin the island, on
the eastern side, are others, li cables' length from the shore, they lie o(f two sandy coves,
and are visible at low water. Long Harbor runs ,'y leagues up into the country, but the
only anchoring place is in Morgan's Cove, on the N. VV. side of the harbor, about 2 miles
within (iuU Island, in lo fathoms water, unless you run above the Narrows; there is a
salmon fishery at the head of the bay.
A little to the westward of Long Harbor, is Hare Harbor, fit for sinall vessels only. Two
miles to the northward of Hare Harbor, is Mai B:^, having very deep water, extending N.
Easterly about .5 miles, and having no anchorage except at its furthest end ; to the westward
of Mai Hay, near the shore, lie ihe Rencontn; Islands, the westernmost of which is the
largest, his a conuuunication with the main at low water. In and about this island is shel-
ter for small vessels and boats.
BELLE HARBOR lies 4 miles N. W. by N. from the westernmost Rencontre Island ;
the passage into it is on the western side of the island, and so soon as you have passed the
islands you will open a s)nall cove, on the east side, where small vessels can anchor, but
Jarge vessels must run up to the head of the harbor and anchor in "JO lathoms, where there is
most room ; it is but an indilierPiit harbor. About 1'^ of a mile westward of Belle Harbor
is Lally Cove, behind an island, fit for small vessels ouly ; the west point of this cove is high
and blutf, and is called Lally Head: to the northward of this head is Lally Back Cove,
■where ships may anchor iu 11 or IfJ fathoms water.
■ Two miles to the nortiiward of Lally Cove Head, are East Bay and North Bay, in both of
these there is deep water, but no anchorage near the shore; at the head of North B.v is the
largest river inEortune Bay, and appears to be a good place for the salniou fishery, from
which circumstance it is named Salmon Ri\er.
CINQ ISLES BAY'.— The Bay of Cinq Isles lies to the southward of the North Bay,
and opposite to Lally Cove Head ; there is tolerably good anchor^e for large sliips on the
S. W. side of the islands, in the bottom of the bay. The north arm is a very snug place
for small vessels, and salmon may be caught at its head.
COllBEN BAY. — A little to the southward of the Bay of Cinq Isles is Corben Bay, where
there is good anchorage for any ships in 'J-i or "24 fathoms w ater. About 'i miles south-eastward
from Lally Cove Head are -2 islands, about a mile distant from each other; the north-east-
ernmost is called Belle Island, anil the other Dog Island ; they are bold to all round. Between
Dog Island and Lord and Lady Island, which lies olV the south jjoint of Corben Bay, some-
thing nearer to the latter, is a sunken rock, w ith deep water all round it ; and, about a quarter
ofamile to the northward of Lord and Ladv Isiaml, is a rock which ap|)ears at low water.
BANDE DE L'ARIER BAY lies on' the west jioint of Beile Bay, and N. i W. 3
leagues from Point Enragec ; it may !)e known by a very high mountain over the bay, which
rises almost perpendicular from the sea, called Iron Head. Chapel Inland, which forms
the east side of the bay. is high land also ; the harbor lies on the west side of the bay, just
within the point formed by a narrow low beach, and is a snug place ; between the harbor
and Iron Head there is tolerably good anchorage in 18 or '20 fathoms.
Bande de L'ArierBank has 7 fathoms water on it. and lies with the beach of Bande de
L'Arier Harbor just open of the west point of the bay, and Boxy Point on with the north
end of St. Jacques Island.
ST. .IACt^ri':S.— Two miles to the westward of Bande do«L'Arier is the harbor of St.
Jacques, which may be readily known by the island belore it being high at each enil, and
low in tlie middle. The passage into the harbor is on the west side of the island, free from
danger, as is tlie harbor, where you may anchor in from 17 to 4 fathoms.
BLUE PINION. — Al)out one and a half mile to the westward of St. Jacques, is the
harbor of Blue Pinion; and a little to the westward of that is English Cove.
BOXY HARBOR.—Boxy Point lies W. ? S. (J miles from St Jacques Island, and E.
N. E. •■ E. 12 miles from the east end of Brunet Island ; it is of moderate height, and the
most advanced to the southward of any land on the coast. Boxy Harbor lies N. E. 3 miles
from Boxy Point, in which there is anchorage in 4 or 6 fathoms water, fine sandy ground ; to
nil in, bring
Head, in this
wliich lie olV
\V. N. W.
league from
John's Head
John's Harbc
islets, called
GREAT 1
In this bay tl
sage in is on
seis can entei
BARRYS
St. John's H
age for large
HARBOR
leagues from
from each ot
above water,
length from
head. Th(!
..f the S. W.
pood, and pie
the N. E. aril
necure from a
there are 3 fa
which is the
which is high
goon as you o
From the \
West 5 miles
stretching fn
fathoms. Tl
Gull island.
CONNAU
Point, the be;
extends aboii
water, which
the channel I)
mile from the
Connaigre
bay ; it is vei
side of the isl
bay, are two i
Dawson's (
Connaigre H
greatest) isia
Basseterre Pi
of wood, and
tant 3 miles I
PASS IS
length an;! r
from Point T
Western side
and to the N
passage betw
ly is traverse
fathotns watc
REMARI
northern side
extending 4
side of Fort'
iieing better i
ness and fert
SOUNDl
place much
♦ On Miquc
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
49
nt of the ontfr
liich appears at
beyond these
a fine spacious
on a bottom of
there is a small
3.
id N. E.by E.
k'hiih lies at its
the appearance
!ul, the western
outside of the
1 the island, on
'o sandy coves,
)untry, but the
altout 2 miles
►ws ; there is a
sels only. Two
•, extending N.
o the westward
f which is the
s island is shel-
icontre Island ;
lave passed the
an anchor, but
wliere there is
Belle Harbor
lis cove is high
ly Back Cove,
Bay, in both of
orth B.y is the
u fishery, Irom
he North Bay,
ge sliips on the
cry snug place
ben Bay, where
M)uth-eastwaid
the north-east-
)und. Between
en Bay, sonie-
d)out a quarter
t low water,
ind N. i W. 3
the bay, which
, which forms
>f the bay, just
?en the harbor
li of Bande de
with the north
'■ harbor of St.
each end, and
land, free from
lacques, is the
Island, and E.
leight, and the
N. E. 3 miles
idy ground ; to
nil in, bring Boxy Point open of a little black head just witliin the point, called Friars
Head, in this direction you will keep the middle of the channel, and between the shoals
wliich lie off each point of the harbor where the stages are.
\V. N. W. one mile (loiii Boxy Point is the Island of St. .lohn, and N. N. \V. half a
ieasue from St. .Folin's Island is St. .lohn's Head, high, steep, an<l craggy. Between St.
John's Head and Boxy Point is St. .lohn's Bay, (|uite exposed ; in the bottom of this is
John's Harbor, fit for boats only. On the north side of St. John's Head are two rocky
islets, called thetjulland Shag; at the west end of which there are several sunken rocks.
(iKEAT BAV UE L'EAII is about U league to the northward of St. John's Head.
In this bay there is good anchorage in various dei)ths, sheltered from all winds. The pas-
sage in is on the east side of the island, which lies in its entrance ; for only very small ves-
sels can enter to the westward.
BARRYSVVAY BAY'.— To the westward of Bay de L'Eau, about 3 miles north from
St. John's Head, is Little Bay Burrysway, on the west side of which there is good anchor-
age for large ships in 7, 8, or 1(1 fathoms ; and both wood and water to be obtained with ease,
HARBOR BRITON lies to the westward of Little Barrysway, and N. N. E. 1 E. 2
leagues from the Island of Sagona. The heads which form the entrance are high, and lie
from each other S. E. and N. W. distant about 2 miles. Near the east head is a rock
above wafer. The only danger in going in is a ledge of rocks, which stretches 2 cables'
length from the south point of the S. M^ arm, which is more than a mile within the west
head. Thi; only place for ships (»f war to anchor in is above this ledge, before the entrance
of the S. W. arm, in It) or lt< fathoms, mooring nearly east and west; the bottom is very
pood, and plenty of wood and water is to be obtained here, (opposite to the S. W. arm is
the N. E.arni, or .lerseyman's Harbor, which is cajjable of holding a great number of ships,
secure from all winds, in (i, 7, and 8 fathoms water: it has a bar at the entrance, on which
there are 3 fathoms. The mark to sail over the bar is, the point of Thompson's Beach,
which is the south point at the entrance into the S. W. arm, open of Jerseyman's Head,
which is high and biutf, on the north side of the entiance into Jerseyman's Harbor; so
goon as you open the harbor, haul up to the northwanl, and anchor.
From the West end of Hari)or Briion to Connaigie Head the bearing and distance ar«
Wests miles; betneen are (i nil Island and Deadman's Bay, off which t\u'.rc is a bank
stretching from the shore between -J and 3 miles, whereon the depths vary from 34 to 4
fathoms. The sea, during storms, will .sometimes break for a considerable way out from
Gull Island.
CONNAIGRF^ BAY. — From Connaigre TTead, which is high and craggy, to Basseterre
Point, the bearing and distance are N. W. 'I W. 7 miles; between is t/'onnaigre Bay, which
extends about 4 leagues inland. In the moutii uf the bay lie the Connaigre Rocks, above
water, which may be a-iproached very near, there being no danger but what shows itself:
the channel between t!ie:;i and ( 'omiaigre Head is the safest, as a ledge of rocks ei^tends a
mile from the north shore, which renders the other channel rather dangerous.
Connaigre Harbor is near .') miles above the head, within a point on the .south side of the
bay ; it is very small, and the depth of water is 7 fathoms; the passage in is on the S. E.
side of the island, which lies before it. .\breast of this harbor, nearly in the middle of the
bay, are two islands ; and on the south side of the westernmost, are some rocks above water.
Dawson's Cove is on the N. W. side of the bay, and bears N. N. E. about 4 miles from
Connaigre Head, and W. N. W. 2 miles from the west end of the westernmost (and tlfe
greatest) island : the anchorage is in (i or ."> fathoms, (|uite exjjost <l to southerly winds.
Basseterre Point, which forms the west point of Connaigre Bay, is of moderate height, clear
of wood, and from thence to Pass Island, bold to; Pass Island lies nearly W. by N. dis-
tant 3 miles from Basseterre Point.
PASS ISLAND, which is the N. Western extremity of Fortune Bay, is a full mile in
length and narrow, it bears from the N. point of *xMi(|uelon N. K. by x\. 7 leagues, and
from Point May N. i E. 12 leagues. It lies near the shore and is rather lofty; on its S.
Western side there are several rocks aiiove water, which extend a full mile from tlie island ;
and to the N.W. is a sunken rock about a quarter of a mile from the island; there is a
passage between this island and the main, about the length of two cables wide, it frequent-
ly is traversed by small ves.-els, who sometimes anchor there on a line sandy bottom in 6
fathoms water. Thecod-fisherv about this part is generally considered good and productive.
REMARKS ON FORTUNE BAY.— The generarappearance of tlse land on the
northern side of Fortune Bay, is hilly, rising directly from the sea, with craggy, barren hills,
extending 4 or 5 leagues inland, having many rivulets and ponds, while that on the southern
side of Fortune Bay has a very dilVerent appearance, having less of these rugged hilla, and
being better clothed with wood of a short brushy kind, giving to the country an air of green-
ness and fertility.
SOUNDINGS. — In the night time, or in dark foggy weather, the mariner should not
place much dependance on the soundings in Fortune Bay, for therein they might be great-
♦ On Miquclon Island a lighthouse is built, showing a liglit from Ist May to 15th November,
7
..^•1^"*
50
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ly and fatally (ioccived, inasmuch as, in many places, the water near the shores and in its
creeks and harWors is oTtcn d('e|)er than in the rniddlc of" the bay itseil'.
HERMITAtiK HAV.— Tiiis extensive bay is bounded on'the S. W. by Pass Island,
and to the northward by the islands that form the Bay of Bonne and (ireat Jervis Harbor,
the width beinji; more than 'i leai,'ues: and by the southern shores of Long Island, where
it begins to narrow ; in sailing along the southern coast front Pass Island, you will discover
the Fox Islands, which are distant from I'ass Island 10 or 11 miles; these islands are situa-
ted opposite to the entrance to Hermitage Cove about J of a mile from the land, and are
said to have good (ishing about tiiem ; olf Uie Northern Fox Island are several rocks above
water, and a simkeii rock lies also olf the south side of this island. To enter Hernutaue
Cove you shoulil keej) between the islamls and the shore, borrowing somewhat towards ti;e
main land, where you will (ind ;((), 32, and IP fathoms water; here you will see the rove
open, and may turn m south, having deep water and without the least danger ; the anchor-
age is good, with every conveniency for fishing, and plenty of both wood and water.
From hence Hermitage Jiay runs in nearly west for V2 miles, with very deep water, until
you get near tlie head, where it gradually lessens to •.'.'> and '22 fathoms, and further into 9
fathoms ; there is a small islet or two on the ^:outhern side, but no danger whatever.
LONG ISLAND, which separates the Bay of Despaii iVom Hermitage Bay, is of a
square form, about 8 miles long and nearly rt leagues in circuit. The eastern passage is
very good, but narrow, and is between the eastendof Long Island and the main, called the
Passage of Long lylaiid. The west entrance into the Bay of Despair from Hermitage
Bay is by the wi<st end of Long Island. About lialf a mile from its S. W. point are two
rocks above water, with deep water all round them.
GALTAUS HA KBOH.— There are four harbors on the south side of Long Island,
the easternmost of which is caller! (iaitaus; this is but small, and lies near the south-east
point of the island : the best channel into the harbor is on the west side of several rocky
islands, which lie at the entrance, wherein arc 4 fathoms, but in the harbor there are from
15 to 24 fathoms.
PICARRK HARBOR— The next is Picarre, which lies N. by E. half a league from
the easternmost Fox Island; in going in liere, keep near the west point, in order to avoid
some sunken rocks off the other: the anchorage is in the first cove on the east side, in 9
or 10 fathoms, sheltered from all winds.
ROUND HARBOR. — 'J'he next harbor, calltMl Round Harbor, is about 2 miles to the
westward of Picarre, and fit only for small vessels, tin; ( hannel in being so narrow.
LONG ISLAND llAKliOR is the fourlh, and lies about •_", miles from the west end
of Long Island. This harbor has two arms, one running in to the north, the other to
the v^Rstward ; they are both vriy iianuw, a d liave from 40 to 7 fathoms water; the east-
ern arm is the deepest, and all'ords the best anchorage. The passage in is on either side of
an island which lies oil' the eiitriuu c. and has several rocks above water about it.
B.AY OF DESPAI U. — The entrance of the Bay of Despair lies between the west end
of Long Island and Great .larvis Island (which lies '..i the mouth of the harbor of llnit
name); the distance between is one mile and a quarter, and midway lU) bottom is fouutl
with a line of 280 fathotus. The Bay of Despair Iimmiis two capacious arms, one extend-
ing full 8 leagues to the north-eastwaid, the other about l'< miles noithward : in the N. !■,.
arm are several arms and islands, and toleiai)ly good anchorage in several places; in the
north arm tliere is vtiy (hn-p water, and no ancliorage excepting iiithesmall baysaiul c(»ves
which lie on each side of it, but in an arm of this bay, which runs easterly, there is a fiiii'
salmon fishery, anil wood in plenty. In the X. E. arm also there are good salmon fishe-
ries at Little River and fJonne River; all the country about this part is mountainous and
barren, but about the head of the bay it becomes level, and has abundance of wood, such
as fir, pine, birch, witch ha'/el, spruce, tVc.
GREAT JAR\'1S HARBOR is situated at the west entrance into the Bay of Despair;
it is a safe harbor, with good anchorage in every part of it, in from l(>to 20 fathoms, secure
from all winds, and plenty of wood and w ter. The passage in is on either side of the
Great .larvis Island ; but the souiliermnost chaiuiel is the safest, there being lU) danger in
it but the shore itself. In the northern channel are several smiken rocks. To sail ii; you
should bring llie north point between the two rocks above water, on the starboard side, and
then steer directly in; this will carry you clear of some sunken rocks which lie on the
west point of the island ; thes( rocks appear at lovr water : the entrance to this harbor may
he known by the east end of great .larvis Island, which is a high, steep, craggy point, called
Great .larvis Head, and is the northern point of the south entrance to the hail)or.
BON.NE BAY lies about a league to the westward of (Jreat .larvis Head, and nearly
N. by E. distant 7 miles from Pass Island; it has several islands at its jntrance, the west-
ernmost of which is the largest and highest. The best passage in is tc the eastward of the
largest island, between it and the two easternmost islands. The bay runs in north 4 miles,
and there is no danger but what shows itself; you may go on either s'de of Drake Island,
which is small, and nearly in the middle of the bay ; between which, and two small islands
on the west s
but the best
ground, and
the two sinal
winds. Tin
ins; in or out
some suidven
of Botme Ba
W. N. W.
this entrance
EACH El
N. N. E. 2 I.
parts of it. (J
;o 20 fathom;
or 70 fathom
very near the
small craft
oiilv for sii
HARE B
runs in N. N.
home to boti
there is good
rove about oi
to the shore.
DEVIL'S
Hare's Ears
with deep wa
The Bay o
W. 2 league^
riiwest part,
quite land-loc
points of vie\
Richard's IL
leagues from
shore, having
CHALEL'
Icur, which r
parts. At the
rate height, a
water; a littl
which vou c;i
FRVNCCl
Fran-'ois. a si
ter of a mile
is froi'i 30 to
business.
OAR BAl
lies Oar Bay
the bay is an
miles, and is
the head is r
entrance int(
shelter for si
CAPE L
lat. 47° 31' :
leagues froiv
known by th
flat at the tc
'I HE PE
N. W. i N.
near to each
<lay-tiu»e to
and, which
and the groi
WHALI
from Cape .
100 fathom!
! shores and in its
'. I>v Paw fsland,
pat Jeivis Harbor,
uiifi Island, wliere
. you will discover
' islands are situa-
the land, and are
•voral rocks above
enter Herniitat'c
ewhat towards ||;(!
will see the cove
iger ; the anchor-
wood and water,
deep water, until
nd furtlier into 9
wJiatever.
tajie IJay, is of a
astern passage is
e main, called the
from Hermitage
V. pohit are two
; of Long Island,
ar the soiitii-east
of several rocky
or there are froiii
If a league from
in order to avoid
he east side, in 9
lit 2 miles to the
J narrow,
oiri the west end
itli. the other to
water; the east-
on eiilar side of
out it.
eeii the west end
p harbor of that
Jottom is found
IMS, one exlerid-
rd : ill (he \. K.
places; in tlie
II bays and coves
y, there is a lin,-
;»d salmon (ishe-
lonntainou.s and
of wood, such
I5ay of Despair;
fath(jms, secure
her side of the
ng no danger in
To sail ii; you
rl)oar(l side, and
thicli lie on the
this harbor may
cy point, called
iil)or.
ead, and nearly
ance, the west-
eastward of the
north 4 miles,
Drake Island,
o small islands
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
51
on the west side of the h;iy, within Great Island, there is anchorage in 20 or .30 fathoms;
but the best place for large ships is near the head of the bay, in 12 or 14 fathoms, clear
jrioimil. and (MHivenient for wood and water. On the N. \V. side of (ireat i.-land, witliin
the two small islands, is very good anchorace, in from If) to 24 fathoms, secure from all
winds. The entr:ince from this iiay is to the northward of the two small islands. In sail-
ini; in or out of the l)ay, approach not too near the soutli point of (ireat Island, as there are
some sunUin rocks lying at one quarter of a mile from the shore. A little to the westward
of Bonne Iiay is Muskita Cove, a small inlet of from ."50 to 47 fathoms water.
W. N. W. 4 miles from lionne Bay is the entrance to the Bays of Facheux and Dragon ;
this entrance being very conspicuous at sea, the coast may here be readily known.
FACHEIW, which is the easternmost branch, is very easily seen to seaward, it runs in
N. N. E. 2 leagues, and is one-third of a mile wide at tlie entrance, with deep water in most
parts of it. On the west side of the bay are three coves, where ships may anchor in from 10
ro 20 fathoms. Dragon Bay lies in N. W. one league, and is near half a mile wide, with 60
or 70 fathoms water, and no anchorage exceptini; near the head ; and then you must lie
very near the shore. One mile to the westward of J'acheux is Little Ilo't;, with slieltcr for
small craft ; and one league to the westward of Facheux is Richard's Harbor, a place fit
onU" for small vessels and fishing shallojis, with 215 fathoms water in it.
HARK BAY.— N. W. by W. one league from Richard's Harbor, is Hare Bay, which
runs in N. N. E. about .5 miles, and is about one-third of a mile wide, with deep water close
home to both shores on all parts of it, except about one league up on the west side, wliere
there is good anchorage, in from 8 to 15 fathoms, w ith plenty of wood and water, and a small
rove about one mile up on the east side, where there are 'M fathoms, with gradual soundings
to the shore.
DEVIL'S BAY.— N. W. about 4\ miles from Hare Bay, and one league N. E. from
Hare's Ears Point, is Devil's Bay, a nan inlet, extending a league to the northward,
with deep water, and no anchorage until you come close to the head.
The Bay of Rencontre lies to the northward of Hare's Ears Point, and runs in N. W.by
W. 2 leagues; it has <leep water in most parts of it, and is near half a mile wide at the nar-
rowest part. The anchorage is in .'iO fathoms, above a low woody point on the south shore,
quite land-locked. Hare's Ears Point is large, with a ragged rock upon it, which, from some
points of view, looks like the ears of a hare. It lies W. by N. I N. distant 10 miles from
Richard's Harl>or, divides the IJays of Rencontre and Chalerr, and be:irs N. W. ^ W. 6
leagues from I'ass Island. Olf tins [loint is a fishing bank, extending a full mile from the
shore, havinu; from 20 to 'M fathoms over it.
CH.^LEl'R liAY. — ""'wo miles to the westward of Hare's Ears Point is the Bay of Cha-
Ipur, which runs in about 2 leagues N. N. W. It is very narrow, and has deep water in most
parts. At the north entrance into the bay, and chtse to the land, is a small island of mode-
rate height, and half a league within the island, on the N. E. side of the bay, is a rock above
water; a little within this rock, on the same side, is a .•iiiall cove, with a sandy bna h, off
which you can anchor in 2H fathoms, a cable's length from tlie shore.
FRANCOIS BAY. — West, near half a league from the Bay of f ^haleur, is the Bay of
Frairois, a small inlet running in N. W. { W. one mile, being at the entrance about a quar-
ter of a mile broad, and 17 fathoms deep, but just within is .')() and (iO fathoms; at the head
is froiii ;iO to 20 fathoms, good anchorage, and very convenient for carrying on the fishing
bnsiness.
OAR Bay. — Westward, 4 miles from the Bay Franrois. on the east side of Cape la Hune,
lies Oar Bay ; olVthe the east point of its entrance is a low rocky islet, and, in the entrance of
the bay is aiuttlvei, with a passage on each side of it. The bay runs in N. N. E. about 4
miles, and is one third of a mile wide, with t\cep water close to both shores all the way up; at
the head is a harbor for small vessels, with only 5 fathoms water. At the west side of the
entrance into the bay is Cul de Sac, a little cove, with 3 and 4 fathoms water, and good
shelter for small vessels.
(^\PE L\ HFNE is the southernmost point ofland on this part of the coast, and lies in
lat. 47° ."ir X. bearing W. N. W. ,V N. S lea^iues from Pass Island, and N. N. W. A N. 10
leagues from (Uipe Miquelon ; its figure much resembles a sugar-loaf: this cape may also be
known by the high land of La Hune, which lies one leauue to the westward of it, appearing
flat at the top, and hiav be seen front a distance of Id leagues.
'I HE PENOriN ISLANDS lie W. S. W. ,', S. 10 i miles from C-ne La Hune. and
N. W. A N. 10 leagues from Cape Miquelon : they are an assemblage of bar. en rocks lying
near to each other, and altogether about 2 leagues in circuit ; and may be approached in the
(lay-time to the distame of half a league all round. On the W, S. W. side of the large isl-
and, which is the highest, is a small cove, fit for shallops, and convenient for the fisheries,
and the ground about it is considered to be good for (isliing.
WHALE ROCK.—E. S. E. H miles from the Penguin Islands, and S. by W. .-^ leagues
from Cape La Hune, lies the Whale Rock, on which the sea generally breaks; it is about
100 fathoms in circuit, with 10, 12, and 14 fathoms water close to all round it. From this
m
ill
f
52
BLUiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
If
!
• :
rock a narrow bank extends one leajiue to tlie westward, and lialf a leapup to the eastward
with from 'J4 to 5H fathoms water on it, rocky and frraveiiy bottom. In tlic < hanncl between the
shore and this rock, and also bet ween tlie sliure and I lie I'enuuin Isbnids, are rjOaiul JJiOlath-
oms of water, inmldy bottom, and there is the same ik'|)tluit water at omMeapue without thein.
LA HUNK BAY hes eb>se to tlie westward of C^ape La Hune; it is about two leagues
deep, and one third of a mile wide, with deep water in most parts of it; but there is a
sunken rock, which lies oil" the west jxiiiit of the entraiice, nearly one third ofthejhani.fi
over. In sailinj; in or out (d this bay, you should keep the ea.-tern shore on board, in or-
der to avoid a sunken rock which lies o(f the west point of the entrance into the bav, iiearlv
one third over. Two miles up the bay is Lance Cove, havinj; anchorage in 14 and IG fa'.
thonis water, i»ood clean ground. A cable's lengtii off the southern point of this cove is a
small shoal with !) feet water, and betw een it and the point there are .5 fathoms. To sail into
this place, keep the east point of the bay open of a red cliff point, off which is a rock above
water, until the round hill you will see over the valley of the cove, is brought on with the
north side of the valley ; you will then be above the shoal, and may liaul into the cove with
safety. Tliere is a narrow bank which stretches tjuite across the bay, from the south point
of the cove to the opposite sliore. wlicrcon are (Vom \'7 to 45 fathoms.
LA IIUNE IIARHOU lies half a league to the westward of ('ai)e la Ilnne: it has an
island before its entrance, and is lit only for small vessels, and open to westerly winds : be-
fore it lies an island near the .shore. The channel into the harbor is on the N. W. side of
the island. There is no danger in going in, and you niuit anchor close up to the head, in
10 fathoms water. This liaibor is will adapled for the fishery, there being good fishin"
ground about it, and a large iieaih (|ui(e across frnm the head of the h;:rbor to la Hune Bay :
a space of 800 feet, exposed to the open air, and well iiilcuiated for drying fish.
Four leagues N. W. 4' W. from Cape La Hune, is the entrance of Little Kiver, which
is about 100 fathoms wide at the entrance, and 10 fathoms deep: a little way uj) there is
anchorage in 10, 8, and 7 fathoms water, good ground. J3etween Cape La Hune and
Little River, the land is tolerably high, and forms a bay, where there are several small
islands and rocks above water, the oiitennost of which lie N. N. E. | E. 3 leagues from
the Penguin Islands, and are called the Magnetic l\ocks.
S. by W. ^ W. 7 miles from the entrance of Little River, and N. by W. J W. from the
Penguin Islands, lie the Little River Rocks, which are just above water, with very deep
water all round them.
THE ISLES OF RAMEA, which are of various extent, both in height and circuit,
lieN.W.^N. 5^ leagues from the Penguin Islands, and one league from the main: they ex-
tend east and west 5 miles, and north and south ,3 miles, and have several rocks and breakers
about them; but more on the south side than on ilie nortli. 'J'he easternmost island is the
largest, and is very high and hilly : the westernmost, called Columbe, is a remarkably high
round island, of small circuit, with some rocky islands and sunken rocks near it.
RAMEA HARBOR. — There is a harbor for small vessels, formed by the islands which
lie near Great Ramea and the Columbe, called Kaniea Harbor, where they may lie sheltered
from all winds. To enter this from the westward, you should give the southern point a berth
on account of some rocks that lie o(f the starboard island, these are all above water ; steer E.
N. E. towards the harbor, keeping as nearly mid-channel as yoti can, the passage is above a
cable's length broad, and run for the anchorage in Ship Cove ; this is the second inlet on the
N. Western shore ; you will here ride? safely, on clean ground, in .'i fathoms water. To enter
from the eastward, you must keep the northern side of (Jreat Ramea on board, until you are
up to the west end thereof, then steer S. W. into the harbor, keeping in the middle of the
channel, in about three fathoms, and anchor as before directed. Tliis harbor is very conve-
nient for fishing vessels; in it, and also about tlie islands, are several places fit for erecting
stages and drying fish, which seem to be well calculated for that purpose.
The Rainea Rocks are two in number, close to each other; they lie about south, distant
4 miles from the east end of Creat Ramea. W. S. W. one league from these rocks is a small
bank with only fi fathoms water on it; and, nearly in the middle, between Ramea and the
Penguin Islands, is the New Bank, with from 14 to 50 fathoms water; to run upon the shoalest
part of this bank, bring the two Ranie-) Rocks on witii the S. Western jiart of Ramea
Islands, and between them and Columbe, and the entrance to Little River N. E. J E.
OLD MAN'S BAY.—Four miles to the westward of Little River is Old Man's Bay,
>vhich runs in N. N. E. about 7 miles, and is nearly a mile wide; the water throughout
the bay is very deep. About one mile and a half up the bay, on the eastern side, is a small
island, called Adam's Island, behind which vessels can ride, if necessary, in 30 and 40 fa-
thoms; but the best anchorage is at the head, in 14 or 1(5 fathoms.
MOSQUITO HARBOR lies about half a league to the westward of Old Man's Bay;
it is a snug and sale harbor, and will hold a great number of vessels in perfect security ; but
the entrance is so narrow, being only 48 fathoms in breadth, that it is difficult to get in or out ;
the land on both sides is high, and oft' the southern point of entrance is a large white rock,
about a cable's length from which it a black rock, above water, on the southern side of whivth
BLUiVTS AMERICAN
COAST PI LOT J,
53
fo fliP eastward,
unci l)i>t\v(M>ri the
l-'Oiiiull.'jnratli-
;ni'with(,utthcin.
ilxjut two Irii(>uc8
it: l)ut then' is a
rd of th«- 1 liiini.f'l
oil hoard, in or-
to t\w hay, nearly
K in 14 and IG fa-
t of this <ov«" is a
Jtiis. To sail into
li is a rock above
iu;ht oil with the
nto the cove with
n the south point
IIhiip: it has an
;terly winds : he-
le N. W. side of
jp to the head, in
inji good fishin;r
to hiHiine Bay:
TlP^ fisll.
ttio River, which
; way up there is
e La liune and
ire several small
• 3 leagues from
^. ^ W. from tlie
•, with very deep
ight and circuit,
e main : they ex-
)cks and breakers
iiost island is the
reinarkai)ly high
'ar it.
he islands which
may lie sheltered
em point a berth
e water; steer E.
assage is above a
cond inlet on the
water. To enter
ird, until you are
lie middle of the
or is very conve-
8 fit for erecting
ut south, distant
; rocks is a small
Ramea and the
ipontheshoalest
part of Ramea
rN. E. J E.
Old Man's Bay,
ater throughout
[1 side, is a small
in 30 and 40 fa-
•Id Man's Bay;
ct security; but
to get in or out;
irge white rock,
It side of whioh
inn sunk rock, whereon the sea breaks; from this blark rock to the entrance of the harbor,
the course is about N. N. W. distant oiie-ihiid of a mile, in sailing cilher in or out, you
shoulii give the I'ack rock a small berth, keeping the wcHtern shore on board, and if obliged to
anchor, be as cpiick as possible in getting a rope on shore, lest you drift on the rocks. In this
bariioryou will have from Id to 30 (athoms water, with good riding every where, and ph nty
of both wood and water; in the narrows youwillfmd I'i fathoms, the slu)res being bold to:
south and easterly winds blow right in, northerly winds right out; and with westerly wind*
it is commonly either quite calm, or descends in irrejiular pulls.
Fox Island Harbor is formed by an island of the same name; it lies about half a league
to the westward of Moscjuito Harbor ; between are several rocky islands and sunken rocks.
This is a commodious harbor for small vessels, which may anchor in rj, 9, and 10 fathoms
water. You uuiy go in on either side of the island, and tlierc is no danger but what shows
itself.
WHITE BEAR BAY lies about 2 miles to the westward of Fox Island Harbor, and
N. N. E. one league from Great Ramea Islatid ; it has several ishiiids at its entrance. It
runs in N. E. J I"!, about 4 leagues, is near half a mile wide in the narrowest part, and has
deep water close to botli shores in most parts, to the distance of S miles up; then the
ground rises at once to 9 fathoms, whence it shoalens gradually to the head with good
anchorage. The best passage into the bay is to the eastward of all the islands. On the
S. W. side of Bear Island, which is the easternnujst and largest in the motitli of the bay,
is a small harbor, runninjj in about east half a mile, with from 10 to .ii fathoms of water,
but there are several sunken rocks before its mouth, rendering il difficult of access. At
the western entrance is a high round white island, aiid S. \V. half a mile iVom this island
is a black rock above water. The best passage into the bay, from the westward, will be to
the westward of this black rock, and between White and Bear Islands ; some of the rocks
are above a mile oft' the land.
RED ISLAxND HARBORS.— Five or six iniles to the westward of White Bear Bay,
and nearly nortlifrom Ramea (!oliuube, are two small harliors, called Red Island Harbors,
formed by Red Island, whif-h lies close under the land. The westernmost is the largest and
best, and has from 6 to 8 fathoms water, irood anchorage. In going in, keep the island
close on board, the outer part of which is coinposed of steej) red cliU's.
The BURGEO ISLES are a cluster of islands extending about 5 miles along shore,
and forming several snug and commodious harbors. They lie about 3 leagues N. W. by
N. from Ramea Columbe. To sail into Burgeo from the eastward, the best passage is on
the N. E. side of Boar Island, which is the northerunu)st. and lies N. N. W. from Ramea
Columbe. S. E. by S. from this island half a league, is a rock, uncovered at low water, on
which the sea generally breaks; yoti may go on any side of this rock, the water being deep
all round it : so soon as you are to the N. W. of it, keep the north side of Boar Island on
board, and steer W, i N. for Grandy's Cove, the north point of which is the first low point
on your starboard bow; haul round that point, and anchor in the cove in 14 fathoms, and
moor with a fast on shore. The best place for larjje ships to anchor in is, betwixt Grandy's
Cove and a small island, lying near the west point of Boar Island, in 20 or 24 fathoms, good
ground, and sheltered from all w iuds. To sail into (brandy's Cove from the westward is
dangerous, unless well acquainted : there are several safe passages in from the southward
and eastward, between the islands, and good anchorage ; and in bad weather all the sunken
rocks discover themselves, and you may run in without any fear; but the islands do not
aftord either wood or water.
WOLF BAY extends inwards N. E. by E. one league : tlie entrance is E. N. E. 2 miles
from Boar Island, and two miles to the westward of Red Island Harbor ; the east point of
the entrance is composed of low rugged rocks, oft" which is a sunken rock, at the distance
of a quarter of a mile from shore, over which the sea breaks in bad weather. Near the
head of the bay is tolerably good anchorage, and plenty of wood and water.
Swing's Harbor lies round the west point of Wolf Bay, and runs in N. E. by E. three
quarters of a mile ; before its mouth is a cluster of little islands. To sail in, keep the
east point of these islands on board, and steer N. by W. and north for the entrance of the
harbor, anchoring under the east shore in !) fathoms.
HA-HA. — On the south side of the islands before King's Harbor, and nearly north one
mile from Boar Island, is the entrance into the Ha-Ha, which runs in W. N. W. one mile,
and is about a quarter of a mile broad, with from "JO to 10 fathoms water, and good ground
all over. Over the soutVi point of the entrance into this harbor is a high green hill; and a
cable's length and a half from the point is a sunken rock that always shows itself. Over the
head of the Ha-Ha, is Richard's Head, a mark for running ujion Ramea Shoal.
(J RE AT BARRYSWAY.— About four nutes to the westward of the Burgeo Isles is
the Great Barrysway point, which is low, white, and rocky ; and E. N. E. ^ E. half a league
from this point is the west entrance into the Great Barrysway, wherein is room and depth
of water for small vessels. Between the Burgeo Isles and the Great Barrysway Point, are
several sunken rocks, some of which are half a league from the shore.
64
BLUiXT S AMKUICA.N COAST IMLOT.
CONNOIFU: IJAV.— N. W. .', N. 4 iciCMirs from tin- Ilm-zo" Islrs, is the pn««t point of
the Hay of ConiioirH: tliis imiiit is so f.ir ii'mnrk;ililf that it uses with an ea.sv ;\s(pnf to a
moderate lieinlit, and mu. ii liij;lier tliaii tin- land witliiii it ; iln" west point of the hay is
low and (hit. and to the wcsn- an! of tliis are several small ts';iiid . Tiie hay runs in N. K,
by N. ahout a league from the east point to the niidiiie hea<l, which lies between the two
arms, and is half a leaL'iie wide, wiili H, I'i, 10, and H fathoms, elose to both shores, jjood
anchorai^e, and clear >;round. but ()|>en to S. W. winds. The N. K. arm afforils shelter
for small vessels from all winds. To sail in, kee|> nearest the starboard shore, and anchor
before, a small eove on that side, near the head of the arm, in M.', fathoms ; towards the head
of the arm on the north-western side, is a bank of mud and sand, uptm which a vessel tnay
run, if necessaiy, and receive no damage.
THE HAY UF CUTTKAU lies about 2 loajjnes to the westward of Connoire : its
depth will admit small vessels only. KduiuI the west point of ( 'ntteau is Ciiirj Serf, where-
in are a number of islands, which form several small snuj; liarbors Right off Cinq Serf,
about half a league from the s)ioro, is a low rocky island, westward of which is the safest
passage into the hir<;est harbor; keep near this rock, steering; K. N. K. J E. towards the
south-eastern shore, untd you get abreast of a small woody island; this is the easternmost
except one, and lies about a (juarterof a mile K. .\. E. I'rom a white rock in the middle of
the chamiel; haul short round this island, and an(rhor behind it, in 7 fathoms water, here
you will lie safely shfiltertd from all winds, or you may go further up, and anchor at its
head in 4 fathoms.
(IRAN I) '' ' 'IT, — Four miles to the westward of the rocky island of Cinq Serf, is the
harbor of Gi ^iii . vhicli is small but commodious; and may be known i)y a very hiijh
remarkable nv ' itait « 'er it, half a league inland, which is the highest land on all the
coast: down th. .nounl,^- runs a considerable brook, emptying itself by a cascade into
the harbor. Hefore the mtiudi of the harixir ace several litilc islands, the largest of which
is of middling height, with three green hillocks on it. A little outside of this island is a
round rock, rather liigh above water, called the ("olumbc of (treat Hruit ; and a (piarter of
a mile to the southward of this rock, is a low rock : hi a direct line between the low rock
and the rocky isles of Cin(| Serf; lialf a league from tlie former, is a sunken rock, whereon
the sea does not break in fine weather. The safest passage into (Jranti Bruit is to the north
eastward of this rock, and of the islands lyin<r before the harbor, between them and the
three islands (which are low, and lay under tlie shore ;) and, after you are to the northward
of the sutiken rock above meiuioned, there is no danger but what shows itself. The har-
bor extends N. N. E. half a mile, and is but a quarter of a mile wide in the broadest part;
but it is bold to on both sides, and has a depth cd' from 4 to 7 fathoms.
BAY OF ROTTE— To the westward of (Irand limit, between if and La Poile Bay,
lies the Bay of Rotte, wherein are a great many islands and sunken rocks. The soulhcrii-
most is a remarkable high round rock, called the Cohimbe of Kotte, which lies N. W. by
AV. 8} leagues from the southernmost of the Burgeos. Between this island and (trand
Bruit i8,a reef of rocks, some abo\e, and some under water, but they do not lie to the south-
ward of the direct line between the islands. Within the islands of Kotte there is shelter
for shipping; the safest passage in is to the westward of the islands between them and Lit-
tle Ireland, which lies olf the east jjoint of l^a Poile Bay.
LA EQILE BAY is large and spacious, and has several commodious harbors. Tt may
be knpwo b^' the high land of (Jraiid Bruit, which is oidy five miles to the eastward of it ;
and likewise by the land on the east side of the bay, which rises in remarkably liigh craggy
hills. About 1! mile S. W. from its east point lies Little Ireland, a small low island, en-
vironed with sunken rocks, smne of which aro one-thin! yf a mile off: north, about half
a mile from Little Ireland, is a sunken rock that shows itself at low water: this is the only
danger in going into the bay, excepting such as lie verv near the shore.
GREAT AND LITTLE IIABBORS.— Two miles within the west point of the bay,
and N. i W. 2 miles from Little Ireland, is Tweeds, or Great Harbor; its south point is
low, and it extends inwards \V. ^. W. one i7iile; it is about li cable's length wide in the
narrowest part : and the anchorage is near the head of the harbor, in 18 or 20 fathoms, clear
ground, and sheltered Irom all winds. Half a mile to the northward of Great Harbor is
Little Harbor, the north point of which, called Tooth's Head, is the first high blnlf head
on the west side of the bay ; the harbor extends inwards W. x\. \V. about a mile. In sail-
ing in, give the south point a small berth. You may anchor aiiout half way up the harbor,
in 10 fathoms water, before the stage which is on its northern side.
GALLY BOY'S HARBOR hes on the east side of the bay, opposite Tooth's Head ;
it is small, snug, and convenient for ships bound to the westward. The north point is high
and steep, with a white spot in the clilf, and near its southern jmint are some hillocks close
to the shore. To sail in or out, keep the north side on board. You must anchor so soon
as you are within the inner south point, in 9 or 10 fathoms, good ground; and sheltered
from all winds. One mile to the northward of Gaily Boy's Harbor, between two sandy
i
covfs on the
rock, that ju.-
Bro id ( M)v
the l»ay. In
NORTH
K. arm, whic
sjndy point
fallioms wale
jikI water.
Inilian llai
jrc two smal
may get in ai
Little Ireli
and lies near
G.\iUA r
isW.N.W ,'
snr.iU vessels
shore, but no
discover then
white head, I
of the bay,
point N. N.
lie to the W
row toward t
large enouiili
LV ;M()i:
Harbor la Gc
is tolerably
much highe
Biiv extends
narrowest pa
ing in, keep
wards the ea
U fatlioins,
which lies a
above water,
the rock, hai
iiiiT with a 1'
from the hai
resort of fht
ROSE B
same name ;
into tiie hav
(rive the isla
and keepth
hig within t
the harbor i
Mull Ra<
anchorage
islands, and
.Seven iii
close undei
shelter for
mile tVoin I
CONNt
Point, is C
several sun
but wlien c
water.
DEAD
Point, are
ands Harh
fathoms, s
are severa
be known
W. and St
island on ;
^
BLUNT8 AMERICAN COAST I'lI.OT.
55
I)
irfii
flio rnM point of
«':iNV iiscrni to a
'If of the l);,v i<|
iiv runs in N.' [.;
iffwccn tlif two
"111 shores, jjodd
affords shpjti-r
iliore, ;in(l anchor
towards the hfad
hich a vesst'l may
of f 'onnoire ; jtj
("mi Serf, where
lit off Cin(| Serf,
ii<'li is the sidV.st
J E. towards the
s the easternniost
in the middle of
lioins water, here
I'ld anchor at ita
rCinq Serf, is the
wn \,y a very hii;h
St land on all the
>v a cascade into
larpest of which
f this island is a
and a (inarter of
eon the low rock
'11 rock, whereon
tit is to the north
'n them and the
to the northward
f^elf. The har-
le broadest part;
J La Poile Bay,
Tliesoutliprn-
h lies N. VV. by
stand and (irand
lie to the .south-
there is shelter
n them and Lit-
arbnrs. Tt may
eastward of it ;
biy hifrh cragcy
low island, en-
ifth, about half
this is the only
oint of the bay,
i south point is
Jth wide in the
) fathoms, clear
Jrcat Harbor is
liilh blu/f head
inile. In sail-
up the harbor,
Tooth's Head ;
th point is high
! hillocks close
inehor so soon
and sheltered
Jen two sandy
(•ovps on the east side of the bay. and nearly two cable's length from the sliorc, is a Runkeii
rock, that just uncovers at low wnter.
Broid Oove is about two miles to the northward of Tooth's Mead, on tlie same side of
the bay. In thisthere is cood anchorane in IvJ or 11 fathoms.
NOHTH KA.ST AK.M —About two leagues upilic bay, cm tlie pastern sifie, is the N.
K. arm, which is a spacious, safe, and commodious harbor, in sailin^ in. jiive the low
»ainly |>oint on the S. K. side a small bcrlli, and anciior above it where convenient, in 10
fathoms water, good holdinj^ ground, sheltered from all winds, and very convenient for wood
jiiil water.
Indian Harbor and De Plate lie just within the outer west point of La Poile Bay; these
are two small coves, conveniently situated for the fishery, but lit only for small vessels, who
may get in at high water.
Little Ireland bears from the sctuthcrmnost of the Jhirgeos N.W. by W. | W. 9J leagues ;
and lies nearly 11 leagues to the eastward of Cape Kay.
GARIA BAV — From Little Irclandto Harbor la ('one, and La Moine Bay, the course
is W. N.W 'I W.Oor 10 milts; bctw<Mu lies the bay of ( Jaria.and several coves, fit only for
small vessels ; before these there arc several islands, and sunken rocks scattered along the
shore, but none of them lie without the above course. In bad weather, all the sunken rocks
discover themselves. To sail into (Jaria Bay. you will, in coasting along shore, discover a
white head, this is the south point of an island, lying under the land, off the eastern point
of the bay. and a little to the westward of two green hillocks on the main; bring this white
point N. N. K. and steer directly towards it; keep between it and the several islands that
lie to the W. S. westwani ; from the white point, the ctiiiise into the bay is N. by W. bor-
row towaril the eastern point, which is low. 'J'hc bay of (iaria alfords plenty of timber,
large enough for builtlinu <»f ships.
LA .MOI.NK AND LA ("OUK HARBORS.— Tlie .«^. W. p-'-u of the entrance into
Harbor la ('one, callcil Rose Blaiiclit> I'oint. (iicartt) \viru h are ^ ,(ie >-ocks above water,)
is tolerably high, and the land near the slitne tiver Harbor la Co, i a La .Moine Bay is
much higher than any other land in tin- vicinity: by this they ay bt u_ own. La Moine
Bay extenils inwartls .\. H. •,' L. about I miles, anil is tme (piaiuv of a mile broad in the
narrowest part. Olf the e;ist point arc some small islands, anil rocks above water. In sail-
ing iu, keep the west point on board, uiilil you liave eiitcreil the biiy ; then edge over to-
wards the east shore, and run up to the hcati of the bay, where .on may anchor in 10 or
11 fathoms, gnoil ground : here is |)lciity of wood anti water. To sail into Harbor la Coue,
which lies at the west entrance into La Moine Bay. steer .\. N. W. between a rock
above water, in the mouth of tli- harbor, and the west shore; so soon as you are within
the rock, haul to the westwani, into the harbor, anil anchor in (> or H fathoms v^ater, moor-
ing nitli a hawser on shore; or you may steer into the arm. which runs in N. E. by E.
from the harbor, and anchor in •,'') fathoms, sheltereil from all wintls. This has been the
resort of the small fishing vessels for many years.
ROSE BliANCHE. — To the westwani of Rose Blanche Point, is the harbor of the
same name; it is small anil xnug, ami the anchorage is in ') fathoms water. The channel
into the harbor is between the islautl lying off its western jioint, and Rose Blanche Point;
give the island a gooil berth, on account of some sunken rocks which lie on its eastern side,
and kee|)the west side of the small island which lies close to ilie point, on boari), anchor-
ing within the \. E point of this island in 9 fathoms. To enter into the N.'W. part of
the harbor woultl be dansjerous, if a stranger, bct-ausi? of its numerous islands and rocks.
Mull Race is a small cove 'J miles to the westwani of Rose Blanche Point, wherein is
anchorage for small vessels in 4 fathoms. Off the west point of the cove are two small
islands, ami several sunken rocks ; the passage in is to the eastward of these.
Seven miles to the westward of Rose Blanche Point are the Burnt Islands, which lie
close uniler the shore, and are not easily to be tlistinguished from it; behind these is a
shelter for small vessels. Off these islands are sunken rocks, some of which are half a
mile from the shore.
CONNEY AND OTTER BAYS.— Six miles to the westward of Rose Blanche
Point, is Conney Bay and Otter Bay, both of which are rendered difficult of access by
several sunken rocks outside the passage; which do not show themselves in fine weather ;
but when once you are safe within Otter Bay, there is good riding in 7, 8, and 9 fathoms
water.
DEAD ISLANDS HARBOR.— W. N. W. ?\V.nearly4 leagues from Rose Blanche
Point, are the Dead Islands, which lie close uniler the shore ; in the passage to Dead Isl-
ands Harbor, between the islands and the main, is good anchorage for shij)ping in 6 or 8
fathoms, sheltered from all winds; but it is very dangerous of access to strangers, as there
are severai sunken rocks in both the east and west entrances. The eastern entrance can
be known by a remarkable white spot on one of the i lands ; bring this spot to bear N. by
W. and steer in for it, keeping the starboard rocks on board, and leave the white spotted
island on your larboard side. The western entrance may be recognized by a high point oi
56
HLU.NT's AMKRICAiN COAST TI I,OT.
the main, a little to the wentwanl of tlie i^htnd*. on the western part of wliirh point ii a
greni liillock; keep tliis ixtiiit rioscon buiiid, iiiilll ynii ^ct within a htth- round rock, near
to (he wrKterniiioHt iNl.ind, at the ra-itfrn point ot «titranre; then haul over to the eaiitwarii
for tiie ^reat island, dislinjjui.shud by a hi^h hill, and steer K. I N. keeping; the before men-
tioned little rock in Nii^lit.
I'CJR'r Al'X HASC^CK.— From the Dead Isles to Port ati Ha-^cme, the eotirnr and
tlistance are W. N. W. about tnides; bciwcen lie .several small islands close under the
shore, and there are snnkcn rocks, some nl which are hall a mile from the shore. I'tirt
niix iiasijiM- is a small commodious harbor, mImcIi lies about 'i\ leagues to the eastward
of (Jape Kay. To fall in with it, briii;; the Sii^ar-Loaf Mill over Cape Kay, to hear N. N.
W. ,'j W. or the west end of the Table iMoimiain N. N. W. Steer in for the land with
either of these marks, uiid you will tall directly in with the harbor: the S. W. point, called
Poitit KlaiK he, is of a moderate heiulit, and of white appearance ; but th" N. K. point is
low and llat, and has, (lose to it, a black rock above water. In order to avoid the outer
shoal, on which are three fathoms, and which lies K. S. E. three tpiarters of a milu
Inuii Point Blanche, keep the said point on board, and brini; the tlag-stalf which is on the
hill over the west side ol the head of the harbor, on with the .S, W. poitit of Koad Island;
tliat direction will lead you in the middle of the channel, between the east and west rocks,
tile former of which always show themselves, and these you leav<; on your starboard hand:
continue this course up to Koad Island, and keep the west [)oint on board, in order to avoid
the Kryinj^-|)an Kock, which stretches out Irom a cove on the west shore, opposite the
island; and, so soon as you are above the island, haul to the H.N. K. and anchor between
it and Harbor Island wherever you please, in (tor 10 fathoms, jjood jiroiind, and sheltered
from all winds : this is called the Koad or Outer Harbor, and is the only anctmririi; place
for men ol" war, or ships drawint; a (jreat depth of water, but small vessels always lie up in
the Inner Harbor. To sail into it. run in between the west shore and the .S. W. eiul of
Harbor Island, and anchor behind the said island, in '! or 4 fathoms. In some parts of this
harbor sliips can lay their broadside so near to the shore as to reach it with a |)laiik. This
place has been fre(|iieiited by lisliermen for many years, it isweil situated for their pur|)oses.
and is capable of most excellent uccommodatioiis; one mile to the eastward of Basque is
Little Rav.
GR.Ar>/D BAY lies about two miles to the westward of Port atix Basque; there are
several small islands and ro< ks in and before it, the outtriUDsi of which are not above \
quarter of a mile iVom the shore, on these the sea i^enor.illy breaks: it is only fit for small
vessels.
From Port aux Basque to Point Kiira<;(''e. the bearing and distance are W. N. W.
about a league, and thence to ('ape Ray N. N. W. nearly 1', league. Point Enracce, is
low ; off it and to the eastward of it, are some sunken rocks a mile froin the shore, on which
the sea breaks.
CAPE RAY is the .*^. W. extremity of Newfoundlan 1, situated in lat. 47 deg. 37 min.
north, and longitude .59 dcij. 17 min. w.^st from (Jrceiiwich: the land of the cape is very
remarkable; near the shore it is low, but three miles inland is a very hiuh table mountain,
which rises almost perpendicular from the low 1 nd, and ajjfiears to be (juite flat at the top,
excepting a small hillock on the S. W. |)oiiit of it. This land maybe seen, in clear
weather, from the distance of l(> or Irt leagues. Close to the foot of the Table mountain,
between it and the point of thti cape, is a liic;h round liill. resembling a sugar-loaf, (called
the Sugar-Loaf of Cape Kay,) whose summit is a little lower than that of the table inotin-
tain ; and to the northward of this hill, under the table mountain, are two other conical
hills, resembling sugar-loaves, which are not so high as the former ; one or other of these
sugar-loaf hills arc, from all points of view, seen detached from the table mountain.
There is a sandy bay betwi-eii Cape Ray and Point Eiiragee, wherein sliips may anchor
with tlie winds from N. N. W. to East, but they should be cautious not to be surprised
there vv'ith S. W. winds, which blow dire; ily in, and cause a great sea. The ground is
not the best for holding, being lim^ sand. Towards tlie east side of this bay is a small
ledge of rocks, one mile from shore, on which the sea does not break, in fine weather.
The best place for lar.'.'e ships to aiiclior it; is, to bring the point of the cape N. W. and
tlie hi'^h white sand-hill in the bottom of the liay N. E. in 10 fathoms water. Small ves-
sels may lie farther in. Be larofiil not to run so far to the eastward as to bring the end of
the table mountain on with the sand-hill, in the bottom of the bay, liy which means the
ledge of rocks before mentioned will be avoided.
N. W. ^ W. nearly one mile from the point of the cape, is a small ledge of rocks, called
the Cape Rocks, whereon the sea always breaks; and, one mile to the northward of the
cape, close uiider the land, is a low rocky island ; there "^ a channel between the ledge
and the cape, with 14 and 15 fathoms water, and also between it and the island with 4 and
6 fathoms; but the tides, which run here with great rapidity, render it unsafe to shipping.
The soundings under 100 fathoms do not extend above a league from the land to the
southward and eastward of the cape, nor to the westward and northward of it, except on a
I
)ank *hich
arc from 70
aux Basqm
fathoms.
THE IS
Kay, in .Ni
hiaiid ; it t>*
Iii){li hills 11
there is a Ii
from the se
CAPE ^
fntrance iiit
bears from t
excepting n<
THE T
the tide gei
about 7 or h
greatly inllu
and St. I'le
Bay, it sets
Mniie and (
generally v!
xiderable, e\
vhat miiilit
lime than at
THE
F
FROM C
Cape f\jigui
ward of (.'ap
Between tli«
wherein are
which has a
The shore u
ger so far off
being timbei
ISLAND
Cape Anguil
in compass,
bar-harbor (
southward.
COD RO
good anchoi
point of the i
island, at the
of the island
to the soutlr
shoal stretcl
there is goof
ST. GEC
distance are
(leorge, whi
leagues froii
land, is a go
St. George <
but boats,
chorage in 7
two-thirds a
CAPE S
the Bay of I
BLU.NTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
57
licli point i« a
iikI rock, near
> the «'ioiiwnrd
u; bi'furf iiien-
le course nnd
DHP under lln;
Hliorc. I'ort
» the cnslwiirtl
to bi'iir N. N.
tilt' land with
'. point, cidicd
N. K. point 18
void the outer
ters ol'a nirlu
hich is on the
Hoad Island ;
id west rocks,
irl)oiird hand :
oriler to avoid
', opposite the
ichor between
and ^*hp|ter(•ll
clioriiii; place
wavs lie up in
S.'W. end of
e fiartsoC this
plank. This
heir purposes.
of 15as(]ue is
ue ; there are
' not above h
\y (it for small
re W. N. W.
t Enragoe, is
ore, on which
deg. 37 niin.
cajie is very
lie mountain,
lat at the top,
een, in clear
le mountain,
r-loaf, (called
table motin-
other conical
tlier of these
uiitain.
may anclior
be surprised
10 ground is
ay is a small
ine weather.
N. W. and
Small ves-
n<j the end of
1 means the
rocks, called
iward of the
in the ledge
d with 4 and
to shipping.
! land to the
except on a
jank Ahich lies otV Port aiix Itasijiie, between 'J and .'( leaKues iVomilie Innd, whereon
are from 70 (o 100 fathoms, good hsliing uround. S. K. j S. about 13 ^rnKueft from Port
,iux itaNijue, ill the lai. of 47 deg. 14 miii. north, is saiil to be a bank, whereon lire 70
failioms.
THK ISLAND OK ST. I'AIJL, bearn W. S. W. \ W. distant 14 lengieiifrom Cape
Ray, ill Ni^wfounilland, and K. N. K. | K. 4 leagues from the North Cafie of Itretou
Maud; it is about 5 miles in compaMs, including the islet at its N. K. end; < has three
liigli hills upon it, and deep water close to all round. On the northern part of 'his island,
there is a lighthouse containing a fixeil light, it can be 8eeii in clear weather 18 miles
from the sea.
CAPK NOKTII is a lofty nroniontnry at tiie N. K. extremity of Itreton Island; the
entrance into the (iulf of St. Lawrence is formed liy this cape and Cape Kay, and the latter
bears from the former K. N. K. | K. distant IH l leagues : the depth of the water between,
excepting near the island of St. I'aul. is generally aluive JOO fathoms,
THK TIDKS. — IJelweeii ("ape Chapcau Kuuge and ("ape Kay, in all the bayn, &e.
the tide generally flows till !) o'clock, on full and change, and its perpendicular rise is
about 7 or H fft on springs; but it must be obsencd, that the tides are every where
greatly inlluein ... by the winds and weather. ( >ii the coast, between ("ape ('ha|)eau Kouge
and St. Pierre, ilie current sets generally to ilie S. \V. On the south side of Fortune
Kav, it sets to the eastward, and on the iioitli side to the westward. Ketween (Jape La
Huiie and Cape Kay, the Hood sets to the westward in tin- oiling, very irregularly; but
generally -J or .'• Iioui.s after it i> high water by the shore. The tide or current is inron-
fiiileruble, exceplini; near ("ape Kay, where it is stidiig. aod at timi's sets (|uite contrary to
what miuht be expected Imm the coiiiiiion course of the tides, and much stronger at one
lime than at another; the.se irregularities seem to depend cliielly on the winds.
THE WEISTER.ir COAST OF IVElVEOL'iXDLAND,
FROM CAPK KAV TO THK STRAIT OF KKLLK ISLE.
FROM Cape Ray to Cape .\nguille, the course and distance are N. } E. 17 or 18 mtlefli
Cape Anguille is the northernmost point of land you can .see, after passing to the west-'
ward of (."njie Kay; it is high table land, and covered with wood, in the rnuntry above it.
Ketweeii the high land of the two capes the coast is low, and the shore forms a bay,
wherein are the great and little rivers of ("od Roy; the northernmost is the great river,
which has a bar-harbor, fit to admit vessels of H or 10 feet draught only at high witer.
The shore may lie approached between the two capes to half a league, there being no dan-
ger so far off. It is a good salmon lisliery, and for buildiii!: small vessels and boats, there
being timber in abundance.
ISLAND COD KO^■.— The Island of Cod Roy lies l\ or '-> miles to the southward of
Cape Anguille, close under the high land ; it is a low, (lat, green island, of nearly 2 miles
in compass, in the shape of a horse-shoe, forming, between it and the main, a small, snug
bar-harbor for vessels of 10 or IJ ("eet draught ; the salest entrance to it is from the
southward.
COD RO V KOA D. — South-eastward from the island is Cod Roy Road, wherein is veiy
good anchorage for shijiping, in ."", 7, or (>, fathoms, on a dav bottom. With the south
jioint of the islanil bearing about W. N. W. and the point o( the beach on the inside of the
island, at the south entrance into the harbor, on with a point on the main to the northward
of the island, you will lie in 7 fathoms, ;uid nearly half a mile irorn the shore, ; one league
to the southward of Cod Roy Island is a high lilull" point, called Sioriuy Point, otX which a
shoal stretches out a full mile ; this point covers tlie road from the S. S. E. winds, and
tliere is good anchorage all along the shore, between it and the island.
ST. (jEORCK'S IJAV.— From Cape Anguille to Cape St. George, the course and
distance are N. N. E. J E. nearly 12 leagues; these two cajies ibrm the (ireat bay of St.
(leorge, which extends inwards E. N. E. 18 leagues from the former, and E. S. E. II
leagues from the latter; at the head of this bay, on the south side, round a low point of
land, is a good harbor, with excellent anchorage in 8, 10, or 12, fathoms water: the river
St. George empties itself into the head of this bay, but it is not navigable for any thing
but boats. On the north side of the bay, before the isthmus of Port-a-Port, is good an-
chorage in 7 or 8 fatlioms, with northerly winds; from ottthis jilace a lishing-bank stretches,
two-thirds across the bay, w itli from 7 to lt> fathoms water on it, dark sandy bottom.
CAPE ST. GEORCiE may be readily known not only by its being the north point of
tlie Bay of St. George, but also by the steep cliffs on the north part of it, which rise per^
58
"BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST IMI.OT.
pendirtilnrly from <rt«' hpii to it coiiMHlfr;!!)!** ln-iKlit ; iitiil hy Ht-d iNhtml, which \\p% Ti milrt
to the »orth-i-iiftlviiril olthi- <-,t\tv, .tiid liall a iiiilc Iroiii the Hhnri-: thiM island m hIxhu 1
in
the
ili> in hMijijth, v(id ol' a middling; h«M):lil ; (he .«tt'f|) idill n uroiiiHl it an- ol a rt-ddJNh red
re IN ant
hi^a^e with idl-Nhorc winds under the N. K. end nl' iht* i.nland, liet
or;
••re H NHndv
l<)MI<l,
di}i(iii;;li this |dare waM lieretolore much reMurled to by ve<tHi-lH in ih
Red I<4land, diHiant •> or S inilcN, to lion^ Point, nt tlie rntran
ee into (lif
cove on the i«ain, wliiili hes just to tiut nnrtliward olthe uteep c lili'n, in I 'J or 14 (all
you will the/e ride, covered (rom tlie S. W. winds hy the island, and Ironi the soiuherl,
nnd eaHterl/ winds l»v tin* main land, liut there is no shelter whatever, with winds Ironi the
North or
fiiliinir trad
Kroui ahi
bay of i'ort-a-l'ort, the hearinij and distance are K. by N. 7 or 8 leaxues : troni l{ed Ulnnd
to Ouernsey Island, in tlie moulh of the hay of islands, K. N. K. \ N. nearly Ki leayueit;
from Ked Island to Cape St. (irei^ory, N. K. hy K. full 'JO lea^jues: and from Ked island
to Point Kicli, which is the north point of liii^ornachoix J{ay, N. K. [ K. 4H.', lea/jnes.
P()RT-A-P(>K'r.— The land between Ked Island and the entrance into Port-a-I'ort it
rather low, with sandy beaches, except one reniarkalde U^U hillock, called Kound I ead,
close to the shore, abotit .> leagues to the K. N. Kastward of Ked Island: but up in the
country, over Port-a-Port, are hi;;h lan<ls : and, if you are ;j or 4 leanues ofV at sea, vou
SI.
W. ;
c.
re
ast of
-a
-I'ort
y
IslaiK
can
not discern tiie Lon^ Point ol' land which forms the bay ; this bay is capacious, be
"IK
above.') miles broad at the entiaiKc, and 4 leagues deep, running in to the .South and .S.
Westwaril, with j;ood anchorages in most parts idit. Ijonj; Point is the west point of the
bay; it is low and roc ky, and a ledye ol' rocks extends from it K. N. K. nearlv a mile. ,S.
E. by K. J K. I miles iVoiii liOiif; Point, and half a leaiiue from the east shore, lies Fox
Island, which is small, but of iniddlin.; height; from the north end of this island a •hoal
Htretches out nearly 'J miles to N. N. Kastward, called Fox's 'i'ail ; and nearly in ihe mid-
dle of the bay, between Fox Island and the west shore, lies the Middle (Jriiiuid, on one
place of which, near the .S. W. end, there is not above .3 or 4 feet water. From the head
of the bay, projecting; out into the middle of it, is a low |ioiiit, called Middle Point, olf
which, extending '* miles N'. K. by N. is a shoal spit, jiart of whic h dries at low water:
this Middle Point divides the bay into two parts, (ailed Fast and West Ha>s. From tl
n;
head of the Fast iJay, over to the Hay ^>i St. (ieorije, the distance is a lar^e qiiaiter of a
mile : this isthmus is very low, iind h s a pond in the middle of it, into w hich liie sea fie-
auently daslies over, especiilly at liiuh tides, and with yales oi wind from the soiuliwaiil.
•n the east side of it is a toleriii)ly liit;li mountain, risiiii; directiv from the i«.tliini
flat
IS, a
nd
at top; to the nortliwanl ol tins, ami at ahout o miles distance irom the isilinms, i- a
conspicuous valley, or hollow, hereafter to be used as a mark. iN. K. by F. [ K. above 'J
leagues from Long Point, and hah' a leamie from the shore, lies .Shns; Island, which ap-
pears at a distance like a hii;li rock, and is easily to be distinguished t'roiii the iiiiin : and
W. N. W. about a league from it lies the middle of Long Led-re, which is a narnw led^e
of rocks stretching K. N. F. iuid W . .S. W . idioul 4 miles; the eastern p;irt of them is
above water, and the channel into the liay of Porl-a-Port. between the west end of this
ledge and the reef which stretches o(f from the west |ioiiil id the bay, is a league wide.
In sailing in to Port-a-Port, if coining from the .*>. Westward, advance no neiirer to tlie
Long Point of the bay than 1 ^ mile, until you have brought the valley, in tiie side of the
mountain before mentioned, (on the east side of the isthmus.) over the east end of Fox
Island, or to the eastward of it, which will then bear south a little eiisteiiy ; you will then
be clear of the lauig Point Heef, and may haul into the bay with safety; but, if coining
from the N. F. without the Long Ledge, or liirniiig into the bay, in order to keep clear of
the S. W. end of fiong Ledge, bring the isthmus, or the foot of the mountain, (which is
on the east side of the isthmus,) open to the westward ol Fox Island, nearly twice the
breadth of the island, and it will lead you into the bay (dear of fiong Ledge; and when
Shag Island is brought on with the foot of the high land on the south side of ("oal River,
bearing then E. !,' .S. you will be within tlie Long Ledge : there is also a safe passage into
the bay, between the [iong Ledge and the main, on cither side of Shag Island, and taking
care to avoid a small shoal, of 0.^ fathoms, which lies W. by N. one mile from the -sland.
To sail up into the West JJay and Head Harbor, keep the western shore on board : this
shore is bold to. In turning beiween it and the iMiddle (iroiind, stand no nearer to the
Middle than into H fathoms ; but you may stand to the spit of llie Middle INuni into (! or
6 fathoms. The anclioniire in West iiiiy is in iihoiit 8 fathoms, and in Head Harbor, in
about 5 fatlioms. The West Road lies before a high stone beach, about 'J miles south-
westward of Long Point, where you may lie very secure from westerly and N. W. winds,
in about 10 or I'J fathoms water: this be;:( h is steep to, and forms an excellent place for
landing and drying your fish; tliere is a good place at the northern end of Fox's Island
for the same purpose. The whole bay and the adjacent coasts abound with cod, and
extensive fishing banks lie all along the coasts.
The East Road lies between Fox Island and the east shore : to sail up to it, you should
keep the high bluff head, which is about a league to the E. N. E. of the island, bearing
10 thn souili«.
liluiid; yoi" «
louihward, am
To nail i'l>
ibiive the islaii
point above ili.
wiiiil'*, in altou
iiiiil the Fox'i*
iiiitrkwillle.id
, li.ir as before
H.\Y OF
\\.\\ of Isl iiid>
Long Ledge ;
Iv from the si
(ii It. particiila
are nearly id
Harbors. wlii<
111 bet went (»i
HOiitherly and
(justs of wind)
M.ileiy. 'I'l"-'
liiiil in or o'lt
k'.lge of rock
a hue with th
Hide ol the N
safest passage
between Twe
LARK 11
of York liar
.^. S. \V. b 1
third of a mil
large ship, ki
side, bearing
secure from i
Vt)RK II
are W. S. W
iiiir's Island,
runs olV frou
there is also
iiNo be av(dib
give Sword I
a sandy beac
erU winds bl
ilarlmr Isl
fiuernsey Is
River Huml
80 rapid in ^
even a boat
The Nort
On the east
10, orl-2f;»t'
with S. W.
the bay, is 1
Hay oi" Islai
were ere< e
lame beaci
t roin tlu
E. H miles;
of Bonne 1
is low, alon
way inland
CAPE i
from the se
when vou •
BOSINE
all that on
and thence
BI.UNT 8 AMERICAN COAST FILOT.
59
'"■h lies r, ,„ii„
'•""I i» RllOllt 1
'• •••■•lilixh color ';
I. iM-lori' H MHri.ly
' "«• H Lilhom,,
'•' »Jn- MOUlhlTiv
' *^'>i<lNlroii, ihK
>y VfSMelM in th^
cnirancc info tlif
''••III Hr.l Mn,„|
y^y Iti l.-i.uu..H:
from Kf«l inh,,,,!
'I'^.l len^iiPH.
" f'<»rt-a.|»orii,
'I Hound f ca,!,
• '"If ii|) in (lie
•>'}' at scii, vou
:M'»<"i<>tis, bt'iii);
♦• '"^"iitli and S.
**'"*' poiiii ol tlip
"'"■Iv ii mile. .S.
NllOlf, lies K„x
ix isl.iiid a sh.iid
•'iirlv in rlic niid-
< •round, on one
l-'iorn the l„.i,d
Iidilli- Point, o/l
X itt low water ;
'i'Jt. l'"roni ilic
'•;;<' <|iiaiier of a
hich the Nea (re-
' 'lie sonilMvartl.
I"' i^tiiiiiUN, and
til*' istlinms, i.« a
'■•• '. K. ahcnp vi
^litiid, uhieli ;,,,.
' lli«' main : and
« a nam.w ledj^e
p:irt of theni is
*«'.sf end of tliis
(>iiUiit- wide,
no nearer to tlie
tliP side of tlie
iist end of Fox
; von will then
'•lit, if roinini; {
to keep clear of I
iitiiin, (wiiii li is
iPJirly twice t)ie
tl^i' ; und wlien
of Coal Kivcr.
ife passage into
iind, and takin;^
rom tlie island.
on hoard : this
) nearer to tiie
I*<"uil into (i or
fad Ifarhor, in
'■! miles south-
I N. W. winds,
flhnt |dace for
f Fox's Island
with cod, and
' it, you should
island, bearing
in tbn ^nnthward of .S. K.. Iiy K. .) K. until ihi* iNtlniniH In lirou|{lit to llii* riiMwHnl of Fox
lihiiid ; you will iIiimi he within the shoal calh-d the Fox'n 'r.iil, and may haul tu (he
luiitliward, and anrhor any where hetween the island and the main, in from lUto IH tuthomi.
To mtil ii/i Ihr Hunt liitij, passi hetween the island ami the eaMi stliore, and after you are
altdve the inland, come no nearer to the main th ui half a mile, until you are alireHHl uii\ hluff
nuint ul)ove the island, called Koad I'oint, just ahove which is the hcst anchorai;e with N. £.
winds, in alioiit IJ lalhoms water; and to sail iijithe Kasi |(ay heiweeii tin* .^Ii(ldle (iruund
iiiiil the Fo\'h Tail, brin;; the said hlulf point on with the S. W, pmi.t of Vox Island ; this
mark will lead you up in tin- tair way hetvveeiithe twiiHhuab; Kivuthe island ahvrlli, audaa-
ilior as before flirecied, in from H to I'J fathoms water.
HAY «)F I.SLA.NDS.— From the j.oiii; Pmnt at the entrance of i'ort-a-l'ort to tbfl
Itiiv of Isl mils, the bearing and distance are N. K. I)y -V,. r* leagues, lie i arel'ul to avoid the
Loiix Ledi;e ; the land between is ofcoiHiderable height, risiiij; in crH{ji5y harren hills, direct-
|v from tlie shore. The liay of Islands may he known by the mitiy inlands in the mouth
liiil, particularly the three named (iuernscy Island, Tweed i>linil,iind Fear! Island, which
;ire nearly ol eijiial heiulit with the li'iid on the main. If >ou are liouiid lor Lark or Vork
Harbors, which lie on the S. W. side of the bav, and are coiniiiL; from the ^^oiilhward, run
111 belwei n ((Uernsey Island and tin; Soiilli ijead, hutli ol winch are bold to ; but with
Koiitherly and S. \V. winds approach not too near the .'^oiilh Head, lest calnm and sudden
i;iists of winds should proceed from the hi^h land, under Mhich you raimot anchor with
^ifetv. There are several cliannr'ls formeil by the dilfereiit islaiid>, tliroujh which yon may
s:iil in or out of the bay, there beinj; no danger but what slmus iiself, exceptim; a small
It'.Ji^e of rocks, which lie lialf a mile north eastward Iroiii the northern Slia;; llocki and in
^ line with the tw(j Sha^ Hocks in one. If you brini; the south ."^hai: Kock open on either
mile of the North Kock, you will j;o clear to the eastward or westward of the Icd^e. The
Kifest passaL^e into this bay from the northward, is iieiwceii the two Shai; HocIvh, and then
between Tweed Island and I'carl Island.
LMIK IIAKMOR. — I'roiii (liienisey Island li. Toitoi-.e Head, which is the north point
(if Vork llarlior, and the S. K. |ioint of Lark Harbor, tlii* course and distance ar«' nearly
S. S. W. b miles; Lark llarlior extends inwards W S. W. nearly two milen, and is one
tliird of a mile broad in the entrance, which is the narrowest part : in sailins; into it with a
liir^e ship, keep the larboard shore on board, and aiiclmr with a low |ioint on the nturboard
side, bearim; W. .\. W. X. N. W. or X. X. K. and )ou will ride in 6 or 7 fathumg water
secure from iill winds.
VOKK II VKIIOII. — From Tortoise Head into Vork Harbor, the course and distance
are W. S. W. nearly a le i';ue ; there is :;im)iI iiirniiiL' room betwi'm the Hend an<l (lover-
iKir's Island, which lies before the harbor : bill you iiiii<t be careful to avoid a shoal which
runs oil" from a low beach point on the west end of ( ioveriuu's Islind. called .Sword Point;
there is also a sho >.l whicli spiis oil' from the next ptint of (Miverin-r's Island, wWch must
aUo he avoided : Tortoise Mead just touchin;; Sword Foiiit will lead clear of it : in sailing in,
give Sword I'oiiit a berth, passinij w hich. the best aTithoriii.: .;r'>niid is in 10 fathoms, along
A sandy liea<h on the main, with Tortoise Iwad open it' Sword I'oini : West and N, West-
erl\ winds blow here with iLrreat violence.
ilarl)or Island lies at the entrance of the river llumlier. and S. by K. , E. 7 miles from
riiiernsey Island: at its .S. W. point is Wood's Harbor, which is unlit for shipping. The
River II umber, at about ■'i leaijues within the entrance, becomes narrow, and the stream Is
80 rapid in some places, lor about I lea;;ues up, to a lake, that it is with j^reat dilFiculty that
even a boat can stem the ( iirrent.
The North and South Anns are both Ion;; inlets, with very deep water up to their heads.
On the east side of Ea^le Island, between the North and South Arms, is anchorage in 8,
1(1, or 12 fathoms water. I'lider the north side of Harbor Island also is c;ood anchorage
with S. W. winds; and opposite to the S. K. end of Harbor Island, on the south side of
the bay, is Frenchnnn's C'ove, wherein is good anchorage in from 'JO to IJ fathoms. The
Hay of Islands was formerly much fre(|uented by vessels in the cod fishery, and stages
were ere( 'd at Small Hay. which lies a little on the outside of South Head; and the
large beac; on Sivords Point, in (iovernor's Island, is an exc client jdace for drying the fish.
From the North Shag Rock to Cape St. (ireiiory the course and distance are nearly N.
E. H miles; ud thence l.J or 14 miles, on a similar bearinir, will carry you to the entrance
of Bonne Bay. The laud near the shore from the north Sliaj: Kock to Cape St. (Jregory
is low, along which lie sunken rocks, a quarter of a mile from the shore ; but a very little
way inland it rises into a hii;h mountain, terminating at the top in round hills.
CAPK ST. GRE(i()RV is high, and between it and Homie Bay the land rises directly
frou) the sea shore to a considerable height ; it is the most northerly land you ctiU (' ;ern
when vou are sailing along shore between Red Island and the Bay of Islands,
BoKNE bay may be known, at the distance of 4 or 5 leagues, by the land a ; it;
all that on the .S. W. side of the bay being very high and hilly, and that on the N. L'. side,
and thence along the sea-coust to the northward, being low and flat ; but, at about one
1-
t
v1
>\,
..-B^"'
60
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST I'H.OT.
'
'
league inland is a range of mountains, whicli runs purallel witli the sea-rnast. Ovrr ihr
south side of the bay is a vory hinh inountain, teuriinatint; at top in a rpinarl\abip rniiurl
h'l', very consi)i(.-uouM wlirn you are Ir) tlit' iiorlliward of tlit; l»ay. Tiiis hay extends inward
E. S. E. nearly 2 leagues, then branches into two arms, one ol whicli runs in to the south-
ward, and the other to the eastward ; the s(Uilliern ami aliords the best anchorajje; small
vessels should ride just above a low woody jMiint at the entrance into this arm, on tb*; star-
board side, before a sandy beach, in H or 10 fathoms water, about a (table's lenj^th from thr
shore ; there is no other anchorage in less than .'JO or -10 fathoms, excepting at the head of
the arm, where there are from t»5 to 20 fathoms water : in sailing; into the Kast Arm,kpepthe
starboard shore on boanl ; and, a litth^ round a point at the entrance, will he found a small
cove, with good anchorage in 17 to i»0 fathoms, hut you must nu)or to the shore. There
is a snug cove also close within the North Point, witli anchorage in G or 7 tathoins water:
in sailing in or out of Jioime Hay, with W. S. W. winds, come not near the weathp shore.
lest you should hap])ento be becalmed, or should meet with heavy gusts of wind, as the
depth of water is too great to admit o( ynur anchoring.
Ten miles to the northward ol" Honnu i5ay is Martin Point, high and w hite. off which,
about three-quarters of a mile, is a small ledge of rocks, whereon the sea breaks. JJronmc
Point is lov; and white, and lies about a league to the northward of Martin Point; about
half a mile W. S. W. from it lier, a sunkert rock that seldom shows itself; on the north side
of Broome Point lies the Hay of St. Paul, wherein ves.sels may anchor with ofl-shorc
winds, but it is (piite exposed to the sea.
COW HEAD lies about 4 miles to the northward of the Bay of St. Paul : this is a
promontory, which has the appearance of an island, it being joined to the main oidv br a
very low and narrow neck of land : about three-(|uarters of a mile od'this head lies Steer-
ing Island, which is low a.nd rocky, and is the only island on the coast between the Mav of
Islands and Point Rich. Cow Cove lies on the *outh side of Cow Head, and ships may
lie there in from 7 to 10 fathoms, sh-.-ltered from northerly and easterly winds. Shallow
Bay lies on the north side of Cow Head, and has water sufficient for small vessels; at the
N. E. side of the entrance is a cluster of rocky islands, extending K. N. E. and W. S.
W, and at the VV. S. W. side are two sunken rocks close to each other, which generally
show themselves; they lie a cable's length fnnii ilie shore, and there is a channel into the
bay on either side of them. Steering Island lies right before this bay, which you may
pass on either side, but come not too near its .\. K. end, as there are some sunken rocks ex-
tending from it. This is considered the best situated for a fishery on all the coast, and
the ground about its environs is einiiientlv productive.
INGORNACHOIX BAY.— From Sli'ering Island to Point Rich the course is nearly
N. E. distant 50 miles; Point l^iih is the northern point ol Ingtuiiachoix Bay. From
Shallow Bay to the southern j)(i!nl of Tngornachoix Bay the coast is nearly in a straight
iine, there being all the way neither creek nor cove, where a vessel can find shelter from
the sea wind^5, although there are a fer places wliere they might anchor occasionally w itli land
winds. About 6 leagues from Steering Island there is a hill, standing h.;\( a mile inland,
:^'hich is commonly called Portland Bill, probably because it resembles Portland Bill in
the English Channel, and alters not its appearance in whatever point of view it is taken.
PORT SAUNDKRS and IIAWKKS HARBOR.— These are s;tuated within, and to
the eastward of Ingoriun iioix Bay ; at the entrance lies Keppel Island, which at a distance,
will not easily be distinguished from the niiiin land; there is a passage on both sides of
the island; to sail into Port Saunders there is no impediment or danger; you will leave
Keppel Island on yotir siarboi'.nl side, and when you get about half a mile within the en-
trance you can anchor in 12 or 14 fathoms water; but if you are intending to run up to
the head of the harbor, you nuist keep the larboard .-iliore on board, in order to avoid a
ledge of rocks, which lies near the mid-channel; this is considered to be the best harbor
for vessels that are bo;'nd to the southward.
HAWKES HARBCR. — To enter this harbor vessels commonly go to the southward
of Keppel Island ; the st.i boanl shore is shoal, and has a sand-bank, which stretches along
the land, and runs t)ut two-thirds of the passage over, great part ol which dries at low-
water; your cour.se in will be 1'-. S. F.. keeping nearer to Keppel Island than to the main,
until the eastern cnii of the island, which is a low stony beach, hears N. E. by N. or N. N.
E then steer S. S. F. ^ E. for a small island you will see, situated further up the harbor ;
keeping the larboard shore well on board, run direct for this island, and when you have
brought the jioint at tho south entrance of the harbor to hear N. N. E. i N. and are at the
S. S. E. point of a bay <ni the starboard side of the harbor, you v.ill then be beyond the
shoal ground, and may a ichor in 12 t'athoms water ; or else run within half a mile of the
small island, and anchor there, which wilt be more convenient for both wood and water.
This is the best harbor for ships bound to the northward. The land round about these
harbors is generally low, and covered with wood ; you may occasionally anchor outside, in
the Bay of Ingornachoi.x, according as you find the prevailing winds.
t
POINT RICl
by the sea, being
aiiv other land on
inward direction.
PORT AU CI
Port au Choix, si
gtern ; to 'sail in y
small island lyinj;
lies a little to the
OLD POKT
harbor, having at
rocks, both above
nearly a inib' Iron
(tut towards Harb
i. 5, <>, and 7 fatli
tween Savage Isia
Island and the v
Harbor Island, y(
of the island, giv
you may anchor ;
side, for a shoal (
BAY OF ST. .
southward, anil P
sunken rocks; the
tliislies K.N. F.<
well calculated foi
commonly drive ii
it and One Head I
sheltered from nu
bay. West from 1
at its .southern en
tlionis in it, and t
distant One leaguf
scattered rocks ah
110 anchorage,
of Castors, the et
From the norther
stretching out 2,V
POINT FERC
height, and joined
.New Ferolle Bay
shore is bold to, i
of St. .Tohn's, the
W. and its caster
NEW FEROI
flat all over, there
northerly winds, !
St. Margaret's
affording good at
ships, being most
spruce and fir tre
ward of Point Fe
er than any land
island situated at
OLDFEROL
island lies parallel
safe : the best ent
small island in tli
K. and anchor ui
land-locked. 'JMu
good channel up
end of Ferolle Is
BAY OF ST.
Head the course
Eastward about i
two of which are
northernmost oft
BM'.NT S AMERICAN COAST IMLOT.
Gl
rkiihlp roiiiifl
H'lids inwHrd
o the south-
oifii,'e; small
on til" star-
tHh from fhp
the h(.'affof
rni, keep the
1111(1 a small
ore. Then-
loins watrr:
iitho shore.
ind, as the
, off which.
8. I'roome
oint ; ahout
!'■ north side
th off-shore
ul : thiii is a
liii oiilv br a
lii's Steer-
till- Hav (it
(I ships may
Shalli)w
sels : at tlie
i«nr| \V. S.
•h cenerallv
mel into the
h yoii may
^11 rcK^ks ex-
c coast, and
so is nearly
5ay. From
n a Rtraiirht
ihelter from
ly witli land
milte inland,
land Bill in
is taken,
ithin, and to
t n distance,
ith sides of
u will leave
hin the en-
0 run up to
to avoid a
best harbor
southward
tches along
Iries at low
1 the main,
N. or N. N.
he harbor ;
I you have
I are at tin;
beyond the
iiile of the
and water,
bout these
outyide, iu
I'OlNT RICH is the soutli-vvestern |)oint of a peninsula, uhieli is almost surrounded
hv the sea, beini; everywhere of I'loderate hei^lit. and projectim; furiiier to seawanl llian
;uiv other lanil on this side of Newfoundland, the foast from thence, eacli way, taking an
inward direction.
PORT AU CHOIX. — Rounding Point Rirh. on its northern side, you will meet with
Port au Choix, small, but yet capable of admitting a ship of burtheti, mooring head and
stern ; to "sail in you should keep the starboaril shore on board, and anchor just above a
unall island lying in the middl'" of the harbor. In tliis place, ami also in J$oat Cove, which
lies a little to the N. E.istward, there are sevt-ral stajre.-; and places for dryin;; fish.
OLD PORT AU C'llOlX lies to the eastward of Boat Cove: it is' a small but safe
harlior, having at its entrance an island (railed Harbor Island, and on its western side some
rocks, both above and underwater: there is also another islainl lying K. N. K. ,7 N. distant
nearly a niil«' from Harbor Island, about whidi are several rocks, some of which stretcli
(Hit towards Harbor Island, and render the passaL'c very narrow between them: there are
;. 5, <), and 7 fathoms water between Savage I.-lruid and the main, and I and .j tathoms be-
tween .Savage Island Rocks <nd Harbor Island ; and nearly the same depth between Harbor
Island and the western shore. To sail into Old Port au Choix, on the western side of
Harl)or Island, you must keep the island close on board : but to go in on the eastern side
of the island, give the N. Eastern point of the island a berth, and having well entered,
you may anchor any where on the larboard side r»f the harbor, only avoiding the starboard
side, for a shoal of sand and mud runs all aloiii: it.
BAY OF ST. JOHN. — Thisisan opei; ...id extensive bay, bount'ed by Point Rich to the
southward, and Point Ferolle to the northward, having several island-; within it, and some
sunken rocks; the largest of these islands is ."^t. .lolm's. al)out 1?' miles in length. ;iud I ,' broad ;
tins lies E. N. E. distant ri,', miles (rem Point Rich : on its .S. We tern side ly a small harbor,
well calculated for the cod tishery, l)Ut loo much exposed for shipping, as S. SV'esterly winds
commonly drive in a heavy sea. On the S. Eastern, or inner side of the island, and between
it and One Head Island, vessels may lie nmch mon- secure, in 14 .)r IG fathoms water, and
sheltered from most winds; and this is considered to be the oidy safe anchorage in the whole
bay. West from .St. .John's Island one large mile is Flat l>land. having a rock above water
at its southern end ; the channel between St. Johti's and Flat Island has from 13 to "25 fa-
thoms in it, and they are both bold to; the Twin Islands lie N. E. i)y N. from Flat Island,
distant rtne league, and have no danger aixtut them. To the westward of '.he Twins are several
scattered rocks above water, named the Bay Islatnls; tht-y have deep water around them, but
no anchorage. The land at the bottom of the bay is very high, and there is the little river
(if (^istors, the entrance to which is dangerous and shallow, therefore seldom frecjuented.
From the northern point of this bay a rocky shoal extends all the way to Point Ferolle,
stretching out 'J.V miles from the shore.
POINT FEROLLE lies N. E. by E. from Point Rich, distant 'J'2 miles; it is of moderate
height, and joined to the main by a neck of land, which divides the Bay of St. .John's from
New Ferolle iiay, making it appear like an island when .seen from a distance; its i>o»tliern
shore is bold to, and this part of the coast wdl easily be known iiy the adjacent table land
of St. .John's, the west cikI of which uiountain lies from the middle ol Ferolle Point S. by
W. and its eastern end .S. E. J .S.
NEW FEROLLE BAY is a small cove lying Jo the eastward of the point, and is quite
flat all over, there being not more than '.i and 3 fathoms at any |),irt ; it is ijuite open to the
northerly winds, h.a a stage on each side of it, with pleiity of room for others.
St. Margaret's Bay is large, and has several islands within if. also various inlets or coves
alTording good anchorage, particularly on its western side, which is the best situation for
ships, being most clear of danger, and convenient for wooding and watering ; on its banks are
spruce and fir trees in plenty, and many rivnlets of fresh water. Dog Island is to the east-
ward of Point Ferolle full 3 miles, and only divided from the main at high water; it is high-
er than any land near it, which gives it the ap|>earance, when seen from the eastward, of an
island situated at some distance from the main.
OLD FEROLLE.— To the eastward of Dog Island about .5 miles is Ferolle Island. This
island lies parallel to tin; shore, and forms the harbor of ( )|d Ferolle, which is very good and
safe : the best entrance to it is at the S. W. end of the island, passing to the southward of a
small island in the entrance, which is bold to: as soon as you are within it, liaul U|)E. N.
E. and anchor under the S.W. end of Ferolle Island, in ^ or') fathoms, good ground, quite;
land-locked. ^Fhere is also good anchorage any where along the inside of ilu; island, and a
good channel up to the N. E. end thereof. There are some little islands lying at the N. E.
end of Ferolle Jsland, and on the outside are some ledges of rocks a small distance off.
BAY OF ST. GENE VEIVE.— From the north end ol Ferolle Island to St. Geneveive
Head the course is E. N. E. 4j miles, and thence to the west end of Currant Island it is N.
Eastward about 3 miles. There are several small islands lying in and before this bay, only
two of which are of any considerable extent. The afore-mentioned Currant Island is the
northernmost of the two, and the largest; it is of a moderate height, and when you are to tho
'^'ms^^'''^<'''mmif^
62
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
E. N. R. of it, the western point will appear biulilmt not hi^li: and wlien you are to the wc?t-
waril of it, it appears flat and white. The other, called (Jooseberry Island, Hes nearly a mile
to the soutiiward of it, and its west point bears from the west point of Currant Island S. S.
W, i W. nearly a ni'.le. (nioscberry Island has a eross on its S. W. end. from which point
stretches out a ledye of rocks near half a mile to the southward ; tliere is also a shoal about
half a mile to the \V. S. W. from the S. W. point of Currant Island. The best channel into
this bay is to the southward of these islands, between the rocks which stretch oft' them and a
small island liyna; S. S. W. from them (which island lies near the south shore;) in this
channel, which is very narrow, there are not less than o fathoms at low water, and the course
in is E. by S. southerly, until you come to the lenjith of the afore-mentioned island, pjiss-
ing which you should haul to the southward, and bring St. Geneveive Head between the
small island and the main, in order to avoid the middle bank. You may either anchor be-
hind the small island in u or 6 fathoms water, or proceed farther, with the said mark on. un-
til the S. W. arm is open, and anchor in the middle of the bay, in 7 or 8 fathoms water.
Here is wood and water to be had. There is tolerable good anchoring in most parts oftlie
bay; bu. the snuggest place is the S. \V. arm; the entrance to it is narrow, and has only
4 fathoms at low water. In coming into the bay, if you get out of the channel on either
side, you willshoalen vour water immediately to .3 or '2 fathoms.
BAY OF ST. BARIJK.— From the west end of Currant Island to St. Barbe Point it
is E. by N. 2i miles, and from St. Barbe Point to Anchor Point it is N. N. E. nearly 11
mile. Between them lies the Bay of St. Barbe; it runs in S. by K. about 2 miles from
Anchor Point. To sail in, give Anchor Point, and all the east side of the bay, a good
berth, to avoid the sunken rocks which lie along that shore: you nuist be well in before
you can discover the entrance into the harbor, which is but narrow; then steer south, keep-
ing in the middle of the channel, and anchor as soon as you are within the two points, in a
small cove, on the west side, in 5 fathoms water, on sand and iiuid, quite land-locked. Near
this place branch out 2 arms or rivers, one called the south, and the other the east ; the
latter hits 3 fathoms a good way up, but the former is shoal. Between the S. W. point of
the bay and west point of the harbor is a cove, wherein are sunken rocks, which lie a little
without the Une of the two points: in the open bay are 7, S, or 'J fathoms; but the N. W.
winds cause a heavy sea to fall in here, which renders it unsafe.
From Anchor Point to the extremity of the Seal Islands, the course is N. E. | E. one
league ; off Anchor Point a ledge stretches itself W. by S. about one-third of a mile ; there
are no other dangers between it and the Seal Islands but what lie very near the shore.
The Seal Islands are white and rocky, and must not be approached out with care on
their north and western sides, because there are some sunken rocka near them.
From the N. W. Seal Island, to the N. W. extrenuty of Flower Ledge, it is N. N. E.
near 2 miles; part of this ledge apjiears at low water, and there are 10 fathoms close on its
«if side.
MISTAKEN COVE.— From the north part of Flower Ledge to Grenville Ledge, it
is about l^mile E- by S. and Grenville Ledge lies about two-thirds of a mile W. by N.
from the eastern point of Mistaken Cove, between which and Seal Islands lie also Name-
less Cove and Flower Cove, neither of which are fit for ships.
SAVAGE COVE. — Close to the eastward of Mistaken Cove is Savage Cove, which has
a little island in its entrance, and is only fit for small vessels and boats.
Sandy Bay lies 2 miles eastward from Savage Cove, where small vessels may ride in 3 or
4 fathoms water, with the winds from E. to S. W.
About E. N. E. 5 large miles from Sandy Bay is Green Island; between them, at 3
miles distance \V. \ S. from (ireen Island, is the north extremity of Double Ledge, which
extends nearly two-thirds of a mile from the shore, and has only d or 9 feet of water on it.
Green Island lies about three-tburths of a mile from the main, is two-thirds of a mile in
length, very low and narrow, and agreeable in color to the name it bears; from the east end
of it a ledge of rocks extends three-fourths of a mile to the eastward, on which the sea
breaks in bad weather. There are 4 or 5 fathoms water in the channel between the island
and the main, where ships may anchor if necessary. To 20 in from the westward keep the
island close on board for the deepest water, which is 4 fathoms; and going in from the
eastward keep the main on board. From this island to the opposite part of the ('oast of
Labrador, called Castles or Red Clifts, which is the narrowest part of the Strait of Belle
Isle, the distance is about 3r leagues, and they bearfrom each other N. N.W. and S. S.E.
BOAT HARBOR. — From Green Island to Boat's Head it is E. h N.8 leagues; between
there is no shelter on the coast, but to the south-eastward of Boat's Head is a cove, called
Boat Harbor, where small vessels and boats may lie very secure, except with N. E. winds.
Cape Norman lies E. 4 miles from Boat's Head, and is the northernmost point of land
in Newfoundland; this hiis been already de-<cribed. (See page 36.)
TIDES. — The tides flow at the full and change of the moon as follows : at New and Old
Ferolle, till a quarter after 11 o'clock ; in the Bays of Geneveive and St. Barbe at half after
10, and at Green Island until 9. Springtides rise 7 feet, nea|)s 4 feet. In the Bay of Pis-
tolet it flows till thr
alter 6 : spring tide
tide sets to the sout
In the Strait of Bell
high water on the si
GENERAL RE
North America, it is
the lakes Superior,
Lawrence; in difiei
from the sea as Moi
about 180 miles fnii
The River St. L;
Anticosti : these art
part, full 8 leagues a
for in some parts no
THE ISLAND OF
ESQU
THE ISLAND
long, and of irreguh
not almve 9 or 10 mi
bays or harbors, caU
its aspect forbiddin
leagues S. E. from t
(called also Ellis' B;
E. of each other, di
cliorage for unall ve
running down from
♦ On the outer lost
board to ihe bouse of (
by crossing the islhmii
Point Henry, and up •!
Six iriigues to the en
.itands tilt' Diicction B
Four lengues to the 1
tion Board.
Four I'^ngiies to (be (
Board nailt'd lo the koi
thpre arc no provisions
Two Iciigiirs from tl
west ends of which si:
from the ensfcrnmost .«
Seven Icngues lo llif
stands the Dirc( lion B
Three lengitps to ihc
ward stands the Direct
Six leagues to the ci
of Provisions.
Seven leagues to thp
aDireclion Board, and
Four leagues from tl
God in.
It may be remarked,
a boat at low water, ex
BLUNTS AMERfCAN COAST PILOT.
r)5
tol«'t it flows till three quarters after 6, and in Noddy Ilnrlinr and Griqiiet until a quarter
alter 5: spring tides rise f) feet, neaps about .T. Before C^uirpon, in settled weather, the
tide sets to the southward 9 hours out ol the ]'2, and stronjjer tlian the northern stream^
In the Strait of Belle Isle, the flood, in the (irtinp. sets to the westward two hours after it i»
high water on the shore ; but in blowing weather, this stream is subject to many alterations.
u
RIVER ST. I.AWREx\CE.
fiENERAL REMARKS.— The River St. Lawrenre is one of the largest rivprs in
North America, it issues from Ijake Ontario, and is the grand outlet by which the waters of
the lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie, and Ontario are poured into the Gulf of St.
Lawrence; in different j)arts of its course, it is designated by different names, but so far
from the sea as Montreal, it is called the River St. Lawrence. Montreal is computed to be
about 180 miles from Quebec, and oh(t miles Irom the (iulf of St. Lawrence.
The River St. Lawrence is, at its entrance, divided intr) two passages, by the Island of
Anticosti : these are called tlie North and South Cliaimels; the former is, at its narrowest
part, full 8 leagues asunder, and the latter is 13 leagues; both channels have deep water,
for in some parts no bottom has been found with 18U and 2UU fathoms of line.
THE LSLAND OF ANTICOSTI AND THE NORTHERN SHORE FROM THE
ESQUIMAUX ISLANDS TO I'OINT MILLE VACHE.
THE ISLAND OF •ANTICOSTI lies nearly N. W. and S. E. being 36 leagues
long, and of irregulnr breadth nt)out the middle it is !( leagues wide, but its N. W. partis
not al)ove 9 or 10 miles broad : this island has been reported to be entirely destitute of either
bays or harbors, calculated to afVord shelter for large shijiping : its soil is unpropitious, and
its aspect forbidding; hut Mr. Lambly, Harbor Master of Quebec, states, that "two
leagues S. E. from the west end of th.- island lies Cape Henry, the west side of Grand Bay,
(called also Ellis' Bay;) Cape Eagle forming its eastern boundary, bearing N. W. and S.
E. of each other, distant 3 miles. This bay, he says, is i'i miles deep, and has good an-
chorage for unall vessels in from 2.'; to 4 fatln nis wafer." "He further observes that "in
running down from the west end of the island, you should not come into less than 10
^
♦ On the outer^ lost extremity of the wc?t end of Anticosti, stands n direction boaid. From this
board to the house of Gjimnchc, wlu-rr tlicie is a depot of provisitns. nl the upper end of Grand Bay,
by crossing the isthmus formed hv Pomt Henry, ilic distance is f^i.v miles ; but fiom this board, rountl
Point Henry, and np ♦he bay to t'lie house, it i? d, ubie the diFtanee.
Six Ici'gues to the eastward «f Grand Buy, is Duck River, at the mouth of which, on the east side,
itands the Diicction Board.
Foiu leagues to the eastward of Duck River, is Otter River : close to its entrance stands the Direc-
tion Board.
Four leagues to the eastward of Otter River, is Seal River; on the east side of which is a Direction
Board nailed to the house, used only in summer by Gauioche's Salmon and Seal Fishers ; at this house
there are no provisions.
Two leagues from tiiis river is the south-west point of the island ; on both the extreme east and
west ends of which stands a Dir( ction Board, nlionl one mile from each other ; and about one mile
from the eiisfcrnmost stands anollw^r nireelioii Bend, in fl e Hay to the Eastward of the Point.
Seven leagues to the eastward of South-Wesl Point is Heuth River, on the east side of its antranco
stands the Dirc( (ion Board.
Three leagues to the eastward of Heath River, is Pavilion or Flag River, and two miles to the east-
ward stands the Direction Board, on a point on the east side of the bay.
Six leagues to the eastward of Flag River is Hamel's Post at Jupiter River, where there is a Depot
of Provisions.
Seven leagues to the eastward of Mr. Hamel, and on the south »ide of the east end of the island, is
a Direction Board, and on the north side of the east end i« another Direction Board.
Four leagues from this board, on the north side of the island, is the post of BkUc Bay, kept by Mr.
Godin.
It may be remarked, that nil these rivers are mere creeks, there not being water in any of them for
a boat at low water, except Jupiter River, at Hamel's Post.
€4
BLL'NI S AMERICAN COA.*!T PILOT.
I .-' i
fiithoiiifi ; tli;' bieiikfrs will ilicn he viHihie on the shoal, whi«h lirs a (priffer of a mile from
tlM' Ix'ach; and wlu'ii vou an- alm-ast (if f'ii|M' Ilciiiv, you may liaiil into (i fatl'ums, to-
wards a loiij; (lat spit of sand, wliicli lies S. K. from tin- ( ;i,i(! ; run .dong firs ..pit, u.ij
round its S. K. end, in 4 fallioms at low water, you will tlini (i.-l yoHiself < nr mi'f and •»
half from thi- houses at tlie northern part of the hay. liere the bay is about one niiie
arross; small vessels may am lior further i'l, sheltered from b". \V. ai»'i "\i ii ''V S. W. wituiN;
but the ( uter anehorai;e will In- exposed, and open to those from th. .S. .■. \»'. -ciund to :liii
S. E. i'liere a supply of pr.nisituis is eonsianily kept lor the u. e cf uiifoU i .ate seamen
who ma} ; c wreeked on tiie island. The reel which ru:is:Voui tlicrsf pom' of the isl-
and exleiids little more than two uules, and vessels at that distance i.nay eroHs it i;i 111 fathoms
with safety ; but it is >ery narrow, and not nu)re than .> caf'-j of ihe le.id «jan '.e got uj)on it
in rrossinK."
From (irand I5ay to tlie S. W. point of tlie islan«l the sliore is all bold, and so steep
there can be no surety in the lead ; but you may stand on deck and see all tlie dangers about
the bearh, for there is not a reef or rock our tpiarterof a mile I'rom the shore. A little to
tlie north-westward of the S. \V. point of flw iivland is a considerable river, called Seal or
Jupiter River; its entrance may be distlimnished Iiy some while clilfs.
A lighthouse has been erec ted on the S. W. jioint ol the islanil, it is a r-^volving light,
and will be litrhted every night from sunset to sunrise, from the •^.'ith of March until the
hist day of Decemlier in each year.
When ships are to the eastward of the liglitiioiise, tliey may safely stand towards tlie
island until it bears i\. N. W. by compass — they will then be in ;i good fair way, ;;nd if llicv
wish to make more free with tlii- laiul. they can do so liy their lead. The land trendin''
from the lighthouse S. K. by .S. or nearly so.
When ships are to the westward of the lighiliouse, they may safely stand towards tlie isl-
and until the light bears .S. S. K. ^ E. they will then b" in a good fair way for the lanu. and
as before mentioned tliey can make more free by their load.
Nearly east and west with the lighthouse, ami about , <d' a mile from it, is the oiitennost
part of a reef of rocks which joins the .■^. W. point. These are dry at low water, and are
the only danger near the lighthouse; therefore a berth of a mile from the point is a good
fairway. At the lighthouse are depots of provLsious for the use of mariners in distress,
or other shipwrecked ])er.st)ns.
From the S. \V. jxiint to the south point, the land is all huh\, anc inriV be approached
within one mile, tliere being no danger whatever; but there is no anchrsatie. Oil the south
point of the island is a reef ot' mcks. To the westward ot' the south point there is an in-
let, called by some Little .lupiter Kiver ; but by others Siiallo]* Creek ; here also is a depot
of provision* kept for the shipwrecked mariner, similar to that at virand liay; this Creek
is small and shallow, having only sulficicnt water to float a boat at low water. There is a
small place to the westward of Shallop Creek, where a ve.ssel may anchor, with a N. E.
wind, on a spit of .sand that runs from the ei\.>-t side of the river, in 4 fathoms; a cable's
length outsitie of this, are 'JO tathoms. and a little further o(V ')0 faii'.oiJis. The east end
of Antico.sti is flat for 2 miles oft". On liealli'-s Point a lighthouse, 'jontaining a fixed
light, Ls erected.
This island has hitherto hern considii"d dangerous to vessels bound to Quebec; but
with care it will not be found so, for so ; • as you can see the land, you may advance to-
wards, and sail freely along it ; by wh.. m ^ on will .dways get faster to the westward with
foul winds, than you can do .i the offing .Here can be no danger of getting embayed, and
the floods are regular near the island. Mr. Lauibly. in a fast sailing scliooner, frequently
laid to diiring the niglit with westerly winds, and always found himself to windward of tiie
place in the niornintr ; of course, ships beatuu; will always gain ground.
TIDES AT ANTICOSTI.— The tides (low on the lull and change days till 11 o'clock,
and rise iO feet, with spring, and 4 with neap tides.
THE NORTH OR CANADIAN CHANNEL is bounded on the southward by the
island of Anticnsti, and on the northward by the Mainland; here, in about the longitude
of (34^ W. is the River St. .lohn; the land to the eastward of which, together with the ad-
jacent i-slands, iiichidiiig Anlicosti, is under tlie (iovernment of Newfoundland ; that to
the westward of that rivt r is under the (nivernment of Quebec. To the eastward of Si.
John's River are the Miiiean and Esi|nimaux Islands •. these are a muiierous cluster of
islands lying olV the main, with passages between, and places of good anchorage; the west-
ernmost is named Mingan Island, and hears from the western point of Anticosti N. E. J E.
distanf ]()', leagues; the Mingan settlements lie to the E. N. Eastward of the island, dis-
tant ,.' out 7 or H miies; the harbor is formed between Canat.schoa Island and the main;
h>?re vessels may ride securely in all weathers, the ground is good, and the anchorage in
from 9 to 15 fathoms, v -th plenty of codfish, salmon and seals; the soil surrounding the
«ct?!einent i.s fertile, tin! iand level, and a profitable trade is carried on with the Indians.
KSQUiMAT^X ISLAND is about '20 miles to the eastward of Mingan Island, and lie'*
iiP '< projecting pouii of laud, named Ksquiutaux Point, between them is good aad safe an-
I
«
r'liiragt : from h
iiiosi ol the who
particularly that <
7 to It) fathom.s.
?!!•■: TIDE a
ion!" 12 feet ; bi
a considerable vai
THE SEVEiV
shore of the Ri\
harbor for shippii
X. bearing N. W.
Between the Muiij
anchorage, but no
iiig to the Fren<;h
to the Seven Islaii
c leasing towards
the bay nearly N.
when you approac
to the westward o
tathoms; the groi
Captain Hardy,
he strongly retiom
point it out, and il
and 'he ground ai
possible for even
headway up the K
silily be too late in
liir crew, for the s
iiii; ; l)ut having ri
tor the first favora
continuing in the i
THE i'llJE II
If) feet, neaps 10 fi
Between the we
is 'J-' leagues wide,
westward of Seve
Point Deauion, be
contracted to abou
iaiiil to the eastwiM
CCS u'liere vessels i
TRINITY^ HA
Mion, it is a safe pi
the ground iieing <
tiist sailing ships >\
ity Hay the shore
rocks above water
On the N. E. pc
main, with spring (
of the point ; tlier
to |)oiiit, and there
also may be found
may lie hail in abr
To sail into Trii
piiiiii, on which st;
W. Small vessel.'
point of the bay In
cross stands, is a le
than 4 fathoms.
The land to the
n'.ss(ds sometimes
CAPE MONT
.Nloni-Pelo) oil thf
l.iiiteni standin-.f nr
part of Carribou
point, and to the c
3hip& approachi
M/'l-.--
BIU\t's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
65
1 mile from
ithuiiis, to-
» -'.pit, u.id
mi'f and -k
It on.' mile
W. winds;
'H'i'l til tliH
itf s«'iuneii
<>(' the isl-
lUfathoiji.s
e;ot ii|)on it
1(1 so steep
igers iihoiit
A little to
led Seal or
ving light,
h until tlie
owards ti)t>
::iul iftliey
1(1 trendinir
urds the isj-
le biui. uiid
outermost
pr, and are
is a good
in distress,
pproached
i the south
re is an in-
is a dei)ut
this Creek
There is a
h a N. K.
a cable's
le east end
inp; a fixed
ehec ; hut
dvance to-
ward with
bayed, and
tVe(|uently
ird of the
1 o'clock,
rd by the
longitude
th the ad-
i; that to
ird of St.
cluster of
the west-
E. i' E.
sl;ind, dis-
he maiti;
horage in
iiding the
Hlians.
1, and lie'*
d safe au-
s,
/•'iriragr ; from hence, 1 leagues to the eastward, lies the lale of Geneveivc, the eastem-
iiiosi ol the whole range; there is good riding behind most of the iutermediate islands,
particularly that of tit. Ciiarle^; within the east end of which a vessel inav anchor in from
7 to It) fathoms.
T'!'"' 'IMDK at these anchorag' s (lows til! ."' o'clock full and change, an(i its rt«e iscoin-
;on!" 12 feet ; but the weather always has great inllueiice over it, ai .1 lVe(|uently occasions
a considerable variation.
THE SEVEN ISI^ANDS --The bay <d' the Sevi.n Islands is situated o" (lie northen.
shore of the River St. Lawrence, ip longitude tib° 52' \V. and is ai. evten.-ive and good
harbor for shiiiping of ail sizes, and with any winds; its entrance lies in latitude 50° 10'
N. bearing N. W. ,' W. from the west end of Anticosti, Iroiii which it is distant 2J leagues.
Between the Miiigan Islands and the Seven Islands IJay, there are a lew places of temporary
anchorage, but none of note, or much fre(|uented. Here formerly was a settlement belong-
ing to the French, destroyed in 175!), and never re-established. The principal channel in-
to the Seven Islands Hay. is full two miles wide, and has from (iO to ;](> fathoms water, de-
cieasiiig towards the interior of the bay; on entering you should bring the west point of
the bay nearly N. N. \V. steer towards it in that direction, and jiass between the islands;
when you approach the [loint, you iinist give it a berth, steering in nearly north, and when
to the westward of the liarbor imiiit, about one mile and a half, anchor in from y to 14
I'athoins; the grottnd is good, and the shelter safe.
Captain Hardy, of the Savage, says this bay is so safe a shelter from westerly gales, that
he strongly recommends every master of a vessel to run for it; the islands will sulliciently
point it out, and the channels in are clear and bold ; wood and water may be easily obtained,
and :hc ground ami shelter is perfectly good : for, lie observes, it will be always totally im-
possible for even a fast sailing v'^ss(d, during westerly gales, to gain ground or make any
headway up the River St. Lawrence, and a merchantman may beat about in vain, and pos-
sibly be too late in attempting to run for a roadstead, after having sjdil lier sails, and harassed
her crew, for the s()ualls in the river are violent, ami in thick weather give very little wtirn-
ini; ; but having run for the Seven Islands Hay and anchored tliere, ytjii may wait in safety
tiir the first favorable slant, and be up at C^uebcc far mure readily than you would do by
continuing in the river beating about.
THE TIDE in the bay (lows till half after one, lull and change, spring tides rise 18 or
1!) feet, neaps 10 I'^ei.
Between the west point of Anticosti and the Seven Islands Bay, the River St. LawrencA
is JJ leagues wide, forming a clear open sea. without any damier whattr'er; but to the
westward of Seven Islands Hay the main land bends to the sonlhward, untilit reaches
Point Deamon. between which and the o])piisite shore ol Cape Chat, the liver becompg
contracted to about 8v leagues; the shore is Ixdd all the way ; but i'o'iit Deamon, and the
land to the eastwi>rd of it, is somewhai lower than to the westward, and there are a few pla-
ces where vessels may occasionally anchor.
TRIXITV HA v.— This Hay or Cove is about ,", leagues N. K. by N. from Cape Dea-
mon, it IS a safe place for vessels unable with westerly winds to make their way up the f-'f/,
the ground being everywhere clean, and tlie current so strong with these winds, that 'iv"
last sailing ships will not be able to advance against it. Heiween (.'ape Deamon and Ti >. -
ity Hay the shore is indenti-d with some s»ii;dl sandy coves, and near tliein are three '■ , c
rocks above water; keep in not less than H fathoms water and yon will avoid them.
On the N. E. point of the bay are also two large rocks, tlie northern one dries Ut «',t(
main, with spring ebbs, but the sonthern one lies near a quarter of a mile to the sottth«. id
of the point; there is no ])assai;e between thein. This bay is .'5,'^ miles round from point
to point, and there is a river falls into il, wheio L'ood water can be ubiained ; another j^tre- ni
also may be found about half a mile to the westward of the .vest pwint of th'! bay, and wood
may be had in abundance.
To sail into Trinity Hay, you must come to about half a ni'de to the f astward of the west
point, on which stands a cross, and anchor with the pnnn bearing W. S. W.orS. W. by
W. Small vessels may anchor in :{ fathoms at low water, just within die reef, the western
point of the bay bearing S. W. T'hree (|uarters of a mile S. W. ot the |ioint, where t!ie
cross stands, is a ledge of rocks, which dry at low water, and must not he approached nearer
than i fathoms.
The land to the westward of the point trends N. W. and forms a little bay, where small
vfss(ds sometimes take shelter (rom N. E. winils, but of no use to large ships.
CAPE MONT-PELO.— A -ighthouse has been erected on Point-des-Moiits (or Cape
Mont-Pelo) on the north side of the river St. Lawrence, nearly opposite to Cape Chat, the
lantern standing neav'.y 100 feet above the water. The lighthouse lays with the outermost
part of Carribou Point, N. .')-2- E. — and S. 52^ W. by compass, an'.! can be seen over thai
point, and to the ea,stward of it.
Ship* approaching; the lighthouse from the eastward, as they draw towc,rds Can'ibou
■''n
IS
\
■*:^-^
66
BLUM'S AMKUICaN COAST r'lI.OT.
H
Point, must bring; it to bear W. hy S. Micy will then be in a good fairway, and if necessa-
ry they can near the land hy tli ir • id.
After passing Carribou J\)int. and as tlu'V draw towards the lighfliouse, they innst come
no nearer than twelve fat,>(»nis tvatcr to avoid two ledges of roeUs, one of which lays K. S.
E. from the lighthotise, with ordv 1-2 feet »i ater on it, tlie oilier lays S. W. from the light-
house, and E. S. E. from the western extremity of Point (Its iMonts, with sixteen feel wa-
ter on it, but these roeksdo not lay fuitiier iVom tlie shore tliaii half a mile at low water.
The lighthouse lies with the western exticmity ol' I'oiiit des iMonts, N m E. and ii,(\v
W. and distant about one mile ; and when ships are to the westward of the point, the light-
house is in one with the outermost rocks olV the point; and in the daytime it forms a bold
distinct landmark — and on this line of licarmg, ships are in the best possible fairway for the
general purposes of navigatio'i. whether bound up or down.
For any particular purpose of navigation, shi[)s may safely stand to the northward, un-
til the light bears E. by N. ; they will then be drawing near the north land ; and when it
bears E. ^ N. it is time to tack, for w hen it bears east, it will shut in with the high land anil
cannot be seen to the southward of east, arul then tlu-y will be only one mile from the land;
and if they are off (Jodbout Kiver, Point des Monts will bear I'rom ihem E. by S. two
leagues distant.
When ships are oft' St. Nicholas Harbor, and the light bearing E. by N. they are in a
good fairway from the north land. The .S. E. spit of Manicoiigan Great Shoal, the ship,
and the lighthouse are then all in one line of bearing.
• ST. NICHOLAS HAKHOK.— West by North nearly 5 leagues from Point J3eanion
lies the entrance of St. Nicholas Harbor; between them and .j miles to the eastward of
St. Nicholas Harbor, is (ioodboo or (lodi)ret Kiver, of no use to shipping, except to pro-
cure provisions occasionally, the North-west Company having a small settlement here of
two or three houses. But at the entrance of St. Nicholas Harbor, vessels may find shelter
from westerly winds. IJeing to the westward of the harbor, and bearing up for it, the har-
bor will be known by all the land to the westward of it being dry iind barren, the wood be-
ing all burnt oft' the mountains, but on the east side of the entrance, the mountains are
green and full of trees. Run bolciiy in between the burnt Cape and green one, steering
about north, i'nd the low point on the west side of the entrance will appear like a small
island, which yoti must steer for; a stiiall wooden cross is »'rected on it, and as you draw
near, »t will easily be seen, ami then you will observe a large reef of rocks running S. W.
from the I'asternmost point of the harbor, opposite to which, on the land to the westward.
liesanother reef; these reefs are covered at high water, but the large one may always be
discovered ; you may anchor a little within the stream of the easternmost in fi fathoms, at
low water; there is a distance of about one mile between the points nt' these two rcets, and
hoth are very bold; there are ten fathoms close to the eastcrmimst, and four fathoms close
to th > westernmost, you will then be a siu.dl ((uarter of a mile from the pomt with the cross
on it; thi' i)oint is very bold, and round it, to the N. W. lies the (Jreat Basin.
One hundred yards within the cn.iff. begins .i bar. with only ten feet water on it at low wa-
ter, and lies quite acr'-ss tlic channel, comi)!eteIy blocking up the entrance for large ships;
this entrance is nowhere, within the point, two ships' lengths wide at low water; but about
a quarter of a mile higher, the channel becomes wider, and half a mile frointhi* entrance
the basin is hah a mile wide, with room to moor fifty sail of the line, in from ten to twelv,?
fathoms water, ^'ood ground.
The Basin is dJ:ont two miles bmg from the head to the east point of the large reef at the
enrrance. hut it is a very bad outlet for ships houinl to the westward, as an easterly wind
blows right in, and the land all around is very mountainous, so that there is no getting in oi
out with canvass set, in sfjuare rigged vessels.
Small ves ris may haul along side the rocks just within the entrance, at the mouth of a
small deto cove on tlie west side of the harlior, and lie in t"!i Icet at low water; this is a
very safe harbor for small craft, and such as are quick with their canvass, but large ships
h?.l ii tter anc^ior in the Bay, as before directed.
• J :;oing nitu .lie Basin, keep close round the west point and along the west side, as the
east side ii ijiuts^ Iry at low water, and the channel is nowhere two sliips' lenghths wide as
befo't; mentione<i.
The bank jast '': the southward of the east reef, and all along the shore, is very steep,
dropping into 15, !iO, 30, and !iO fathoms, at the distance of 300 yards from the reef. Cod-
fish are commonly caught here in abundance.
This larg." reef completely dries at low water, and quite shuts the basin from easterly
and southerK winds, making it a very safe place. This reef extends in the direction of S.
W. by S. from the east side •>! the harbor, a large quarter of a mile.
The tide flows till half past twelve o'clock, full and change, and rises eleven feet in spring
tides, and seven feet in neap tides.
The flood, in spring tides, runs to the westward above two knots, past the entrance, and
this is to be observed all along the lorth shore up to the Point o " Mille V^ache, and Todusac.
MANICOCCA
St. Nicholas Harl
between them is I
The land is all h
ward is much low
sandy, and has a
The eastern pn
eastward of it, df
which, '2\ miles fi
the sides of two I
N. N. VV. and wl
vou will then be o
When the smal
if vou should /i:i(
|Voin the river, yo
of the point of ei
haul up, and that
great shoal and tli
The south side
must steer up hal
teen feet at low w
The eastern sid
rocky for one mii(
ly winds, in four f
be able to clear th
In approaching
from 60 to 20 fatli
the east spit on tli
breakers ; the clia
narrow, while the
three miles to the
When at aiiclio
the bay, bearing .'t
is three miles bro
The (lo)d tides
anchoring place, i
the head are two ,-
manic()t;(4a
extends from W.
than any near it, r
all along, i)ut very
ward, does not exi
that it is impossib
of a mile of it, an
part of the bank.
On shore, withi
another mile, ther
three miles off.
during a fresh gal
kept from riumin£
place, and sliouhl
The tide flows, f
and eight feet in tl
From the easts
and at its western <
miles from the Ian
far as Befsimet's I-
and lies S. \V. full
to the westward ot
two miles and a h?
is very steep to an(
but close to the m
but is of no use to
miles to the N.E.
up by sand banks,
for a steep and dan
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PH.OT.
67
1 if necegsa-
f must come
:;li l;i)» K. S.
"1 the li;;ht-
tecii (eel wa-
low water.
'-. and S.fijj
lit, the h«ht-
t'oi IDS a bold
r way for the
rthward. un-
aiid when it
iflh land and
0111 tlieland;
K. by S. two
hey are in a
Jal, the ship,
iint Deamon
eastward of
cept to pro-
nent here of
y find shelter
)rit, the har-
the wood be-
lountains are
t)iie, steerins:
like a smnil
as you draw
ining S. W.
e westward,
iiy always be
fathoms, at
vo reefs, and
thoiMs close
th the cross
it at low wa-
largc ships;
■ ; but about
!••' entrance
en to twelve
e reef at the
risterly wind
netting in or
! mouth of a
er ; this is a
; large ships
side, as the
hths wide as
i very steep,
reef. Cod- |
roiii easterly
'ection of S.
?et in spring f
itrance, and
id Todusac.
MANICOIKJAN HAY AND (JRKAT SHOAL— Five leagues and a half west from
St. Nicholas Harbor lies the east point of the entrance of Manicougan Bay. The shore
between them is bold and rocky, with (i(ty fathoms water within 600 yards of the rocks.
The land is all high, ruined, burnt and barren (juite up to the Bay ; hut that to the west-
ward is much lower, and of a yellow api)earaiice, by which it will readily be known; it it
sandy, and has a line beach, flat tor the distance of two miles oH".
The eastern point o( the entrance to ManicMmgan Bay faces a lare;c cape, lying to the
eastward of it, distant •,'', miles; between them is adcc]) round hay, on the N. W. side of
wliicli, 2 J miles from the eastern point of the enhance, is a small river running down by
the sides of two hills, that arc close to the shore: this bay is open when the river bears
N. N. W. and when the west point of iManicouijau Bay bears W. by IS. distant five miles,
vou will then be on (he east end of Manicoiman (treat Shoal.
When the small river above mt'iitioned i)ears N. N.W. and you intend going into the bay,
if you should find yourself dose in to the uortliward, for the spit extends only 4^ miles
|Voin the river, you dioiild e(l.;e off to the southward, in seven fathoms, along the east side
of the point of entrance, until a cove conies open of it, bearing N. W. by W. i W. then
haul u]), and that course will carry you into the bay; the clianiiel is narrow between the
great shoal and the east point, and a bar siret<lies across with ten feet over it at low water.
The south side of the east point is rocky, and the rocks run olt" 100 yards from it; you
must steer up half a mile to the W. N. \V. of fhem. ami anchor on the east side in six-
teen feet at low water; tiien moor, loi there is scarce room to swing safely.
The eastern side of the east |)oint of the entrance. (|uite to the small river, is all flat and
rocky for one mile oil", to the eastward of wliich, small vessels may fmd shelter from wester-
ly winds, in four fathoms; but if caught with an easterly wind anil (lood tide, they will not
be able to clear the east spit of the (Jreat Shoal.
In approaching the bar iVom the eastward, the soundings are very irregular. You rise
from fiO to liO fathoms, then ten, and four I'athoms close to the bar; from the bar down to
the east sfjit on the north edi^c of the shoal, there are seven and ten fathoms close to the
breakers; the clianuel between t!ie ed^e of the sho il and the east side of the bay is very
narrow, while the (treat Siioal to the south, S. \V. and west, is completely dry, and for
three miles to the S. \\'. the breakers are visible.
W'iieii at anchor. Mount (,'aniiile will be Just open to tlie eastward of the west point of
the bay, bearing S. W. by S. At high water, tliere are ten feet quite across the bay, which
is three mib-s broad.
The (lo>d tides run stnuig into the bay, and the elib to the contrary. The bay, from the
anchoring place, runs west one mile, then N. \V. two miles, and N. N. E. half a mile; at
the head are two small rivers, and tlie bay is about one mile wide across at the head.
MANK'OTKtAN POINT begins at the point which forms the east part of the bay.and
extends from W. S. W. to W. I)y N. four lea-^rues. The land is much lower on the point
than any near it, and is easily known by its yellow appearance, being sand, with a fine beach
all along, l)ut very flat. The utmost extent of the (Ireat Shoal from this point to the south-
ward, does not exceed four miles and a half, but is every wliereso steep on the south side,
that it is impossible to approach itwitli the lead; there are thirty fathoms within a quarter
of a mile of it, and in some places fifty fathoms within 100 yards; it is the same at every
part of the bank.
Onshore, within the shoal, the tides ebb nearly one mile from hi^h water mark; for
another mile, there are only two feet water, and in strong wimls. breakers are to be seen
three miles otf. Strong and irregular eddies are aboui all the edges of the shoals ; and
during a fresh gale of wind, vessels will not answer the helm, but will with difficultv be
kept from running on the bank, or driving against each other, in short, it is a dangerous
place, and should by no means be made tree with by strangers.
The tide flows, lull and change, at one o'clock, and rises eleven or twelve feet in the spring,
and eight feet in the neaj).
From the east spit Manicoiigan .Shoal extends W. by S. and west, six leagues and a half,
and at its western end it turns into the River anil Bay des Outardes; it i .nis out nearly three
miles from the land, and joins a flat, which stretches completely round Bay des Outardes so
far as Betsimet's Flat. Betsimet's Point is the name of the west part of Bay des Outardes,
and lies S. W. full five leagues from Mauic(>u!:au West Point. After ships are two league?
to the westward of .\Iauicougau Point, they may stand info the Bay des Outardes to within
two miles and a half of the shore, but not nearer, for the llal runs off one mile and a half, and
is very steep to and dangerous, [n the north part of Bay des Outardes, are two rocky islands,
but close to the main; Outarde River lies between these two islands and Manicoiigan Point,
but is of no use to ships, the entrance being quite blocked up by shifting sand banks. Three
miles to the N.E. from Betsimet's Point, is anothe*- river, but its entrance is completlyshut
up by sand banks. Ships in rounding Betsimet's Point should give it a bertf of three miles,
for a steep and dangerous sandy sitoul quite surrounds the point, and theneare /ou approach
.'«
68
BLUAT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
!■!
I
\
•\
the nhoal, tho siroiii»er is the rtood tide; iniljM'd the flood in alwiiys 8tr(ln^ lirreabnm, nnd
the clib wfitk.
From Hersiiii't'M Point to Point Miile Vachr, the bearing is S. W. by W. distant nearly
8,V lea!znt'M; between tlicni lies La Valle Bay. 'I'his bay is (jiiite clean and bold to wiiliiiKino
mile of the shore; in ilie N. K. part otihis bay stamls Jerome Island. .Inst to the eastward
nt'.lerome Island, is a reinaikalde irhitr /iiifrli in the land, which, in line weather, looks inudi
like a lar<{e Cliunli, and is a snic mark lor the island, and nnieh sooner seen than the island
in goitii- lor it. .Ships may make free with this bay (|iiiie np to I'oint Mille V ache, but they
innsi ji'iw tiiat |)oint a berth of two miles and a half, as a steep sandy Hhoal surrounds it, like
that at Betsimet's Point.
In Valle Hay, ami to the westward of .lerotne fslanrl, there is a river open when it bears N.
W. Sliipsfallini; iiilft this bay, and secini; this river open, will be sure the point to the east-
ward of them is Betsimet's and not Manieoiiijan, as there is no otiier river o|)en, in Ihul hear-
ing, in any part of tJiis coast : it may be proper to observe this, thai stran^'ers may be certain
where they are, sliouldlhey fall sinlderdy in with this part of the coast, after thick weather,
at the :,,n>ii> time seeing; .lemme Island with the >vhite buildings on it. — Observe also, there
are two islands iti the N K. |)art o( ihiy des Outardes, and only one in this bay, and that
much lari^er thaniither of the others.
Betsimet's Point bears from Father Point (the pilot's rendezvous) N. }, W. distant thirty-
two miles, ami Irotn Bariiab, Island, N. by K. distant thirty-five miles. Here vessels with
the wind at west, and (loud tide, iimy cross over, and eni;ai;e a pilot for tiie river; should tlit-
wind be .S. W. by \V. tliev will do well to keep the northern land on board, until they can
make certain of felchin;; Father Point.
The current is always stronsr between Mille Vaehe and Bicquette, ninnins; to the N. E.
Three miles to the eastward of Point Mille \'a( he, is a small river, witli a settlement of
two or tiiree honses, ()elonsi!iin; also to the North-west ("ompan>, called Porlneuf. At this
part are some remarkable white clilfs, appearini^ like chalk, which will distinctly point out
the situation, there beinji "o similar object in the river.
When abreast of Point Mille V'ache, or near it, the Island of Bic will bear S. by E. distant
twenty-two miles.
The tide flows at Mille \'a( he Point, full and change, till three o\ lock.
THE SOUTHERN SIIOKE FROM CAl'E (iASPE' TO 'J'HE ISLAND OF BIC.
.SOUTH CHANNEL.— The const of the district of Gaspe is high, bold, rugged steep-
to and totally destitute ot' li:ir!)ois. Several rivulets fali into the sea between this and {'a|]e
Chat, but there are none ofsnlficifiit importance to warrant description. There is a small set-
tleinent at St. Ann's, about six leagues K. N. E. from Cajjc Chat, where a few families re-
side, who are always ready fo atlord the mariner assistance if required; but the little river
of St. Ann's, as \yell as that near Cape Chat, are both barred at the entrance, and all'oni
very little advantage to shipping: the latter, called C;ipe Chat River, becomes almost dry
at low water, except one spot where ten feet water may occasionally be found, these rivers
am therefore little frequented.
C\PE CHAT is a remarkaiile lieidland, known by a short Sugar Loaf Hill upon it;
it lb the most northerly |)oii)i of land (by compass) on the south side a( the River Lawrence,
but the land that surrounds il.asws-ll as thai behind, is much more elevated.
From the N. W. end cd' An'icosti to Cajjc Chat, the bearing and distance are W. by .S.
thirty leagues: and from Cape (Jliat, to the opposite shore at Cape Deainon, the distance
is only eight leagues and a half; these Capes bearing from each other S. S. E. and N. N.
W. The land about (!ape Chat ]?as a remarkable aiipeariuice, tlie mountains being broken,
notched, and irre'j;nlnr at their summits: this is a certain and a good .,iark forthe River St.
Lav.'rcnce, for there is no land like it to the westward.
From Ca|)e Chat to Matins or Matane Hiver. the coast trends W. 1 S. distant nearly 11
leagues; the coast between them is indented with three places like Bays, but no slielter on
any part of the coast for anchoring, tlie shore is nil bold and rocky.
The soundings between tliein, beyond tlie (ie])th of /ifreen fathoms, are all sand, bui with-
in that depth all hard and foul. In fifteen fatjmms water vou will not be half a mile from
the rotks, and in some |;laces close to them. ''J'he water deepens very fast from fifteen
fathoms, so much so, that a mile and a half from sliore, vou will have fifty and sixty fathoms
with fine clean sand, and somewhat f,uther oil" no ground at 100 fathoms,
'i'he tide Hows by the shore "il! 12 o'clock nearly at Cajje Chat; but the tides in the
River St. Lawrence are very mirdi iiiduenced by the winds. Strong easterly winds make
them (low much stronger and rise iiiiich higher, while westerly winds will have a contrary
effect; common springs will rise twelve and fourteen feet, neap tides eight feet.
The shore is all very barren quite up tr Matane, and notliing (u be got from it but wood
and water.
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
60
V-
t but wood
MATANK is n small river of little use. except to small vessels. Wlien Rhreast of tliia
rivpr, and not more tlian three or fttur miles from it, you will see several houses, and a bluff
cliir standing liy itself close to the west side of the entrance ; if desirous of enterins;, brin(?
the said hliilf S. S. K. and a lead-colored house will he just open to the eastward of it;
lieep it so, and run for the River ; this mark will lead between two banUs, which dry at low
water, and over the bar, which has only six feet water on it at low water; the two Hanka
lie not a half mile from the shore; small vessels sometimes run down alnni; the land, and
po to the southward of the westernmost bank : the two Hanks sometimes shift by tlie vio-
leiic(; of the upland water from the mountains, in the spring of the year, when the suow
melts, at which time the current runs very strong out of the river.
Ships may procure pilots or provisions iicre, if in want or in distress, when, with a pilot
and hiijh water, they may haul close round tlie west side of the entrance, and lie alongside
tlip sand bank in 14 feet at low water.
Tide flows at Matane till tiirc('-(|uarters past I'J o'clock, full and change.
When one or two leagues to the eastward of Matane, and three miles from shore, you
will seethe Papsol .Matane bearings. W. i \V. they stand inland to the westward o< the
Kiver, and this is the best beariui; to distinguish tliem in ; Mount (Jamille will then bear S.
W. bvW. 1 VV. distant 14 or 1") leagues; this mountain ai)pears to the nnrthward of all tlie
land, then in sit^ht, in (he form of a circular island.
The course from Matane to the coast opposite Mount (-amille, is from West to W. by
S.; between them, and eight leagues to the westward of Matane, lies Little MathisCove;
it is a place where small vessels may find shelter from westerly winds, in two and three fa-
thoms at low water: in !.'oing in, give the east end of the reef a berth of 100 yards, or cross
it in three (athoms. and haul t(» the westward and anchor in the middle of the cove. The
reef runs one mile, nearly, to the eastward from the land, and from it to the shore or south
laml, the distance is near two miles, but there is a reef between, and all is dry to the south-
wanl of the second reel". The coast is all barrttn from Matane to this place.
Two leagues and a half S. W. from Little Mathis is Grand Mathis, a small Cove with a
River on the S.W. side, of no use to slii]>s. as the Cove nearly dries at low water; however,
small vessels m;iy aiflidr there with S. \V. winds in three fathoms at low water, but with
westerly winds tlicy will have no shelter.
Little >Lithis is known from (irand Mathis by its having a round bluff rock lying S. E.
(roin the north reef, distant one mile and a half; a little to the eastward of the bluff rodk
stands a small hill on the mountain, in the form of a sugar loaf. Crand Mathis has a large
rock standing in the middle of tluK'ove ; Little ALuhis lias none. You must be within
two or three leagues of the shore to make the Cove out, for the points of land and the reefs,
which form the Coves, are very low.
The soundings from Matane to (irand Mathis extend furth.:. to the northward off the
.Mathis's than otV iNLitnii!^, having ;i.) fathoms water, with sand, four miles from shore, and
from four to six miles otV, you drop into (>() or 71) fathoms. The north edge of the bank is
very steep (juite up to Green Island. Within 10 fathoms watertlie ground is all hard and
fdiil, and very bad lauding w ith a boat, except in fine weather, at the Coves at Little and
Grand Mathis. The coast between the Mathis's is very full of rocks: in some places they
run near a half mile from shore. Three mib's to the westward of Little Mathis is Death
Cove, a small place where the pilot's boats find shelter w ith easterly winds, but dry at low
water.
Tide Hows at Mathis till one o'clock, full and diange.
From (irand Mathis to Cock Cove, the easternmost part of Father Point, the land trends
W. by S. and the distance is .'5', or 4 leagues, "^riie ground is all foul half a mile from
shore, bui in from T.' to It fafhoms, ves- eis may stop in calm weather with clean ground.
The current generally runs strong down on the south shore. Mount Camille is between
Grand Mathis and Cock Cove.
From Cock Cove to the west part of Father Point, the land trends due west, and the dis-
tance is () miles; lietween the Cove and Point, the land is low and well stocked with houses,
and the |)ilots live on shore here, (at least many of them) as this place is the general ren-
dezvous for tlipvn all. On the west part of the Point stands a house with the body of it
painted red, it is the we«iternmost jiilot's house. From this house to the Lsland of Barna-
by the bearing is due west, three miles and a half.
BARNABY ISLAND lies W. by S. and is tliree miles long. Small vessels may find
shelter from westerly winds under the east end of this Lsland, in from two to three fathoms
at low water. There is a round large stone on the reef, which runs to the eastward of the
Island a quarter of a mile. Cross the reef by the lead, and haul to the S. W. till the large
stone bears N. W^. by W. and the body of the Island bears W. by N. then anchor a quarter
of a mile from the Island. Small vessels may likewise find good shelter from easterly and
N. E. winds under the west end of this Island; run up to the westward until the Church,
which stands on the main, is just open to the eastward of a bluff rocky Island which lies
close to the main, and due south from the west end of Barnaby ; with this mark, cross the
Jl
'J.fS'lW^"
70
BLU.NT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I'i
•oin
rorf in ihrre fathoins, (which runs to the N. W. fntm niiniiiijy) tind romo to mid-wnyh«-
twccii (his bhiU" Ulaiiil and Haniiiliy. l{;iriial(y thru will r.ir N K. and yon will havctV
.'t III 4 (athiinis at hiw water. 'I'liP channel Innii ISainaliy tn the hhilf lsia:id \s i\\
rourths of a mile wide, ami ail clean <;ii'mI mnniid. At h'uh water, Mpritic ti Icm, tlierv
are It leet water in tlie cli.iinicl between I'/aiii iSy and tlie Main, hut this liccnnieH ijuite dry
at low water. havinj» many larije stones here uiKi there. Vesseln of ten tect water mav run
through salely heiween tiie Island and Main, should th'-y becauirht at aiiclior at eiilnr piid.
by the wind shil'linj; suddenly ; iini it must he at spring tides ur nearly so, as at iu>a|i tides
there is no wli. re nine feet. The tide (lows at IJanialiy island, full and change, ii|| |^^,,
o'clock. The ( 'hiirdi above mentioned staiifU due soiuh I'roiu »lie body ol Harnaby lslan<l,
on tiip east side of the Kiver called Itemousky. Re(noiisky is the name of (his parish; it
begins at Cock <'ove. and contiiiius thie.- miles above this river. 'I'here arc no houses
on Barnaliy Island, and very litilc waiec: ships in w.mt <d' water must yo to the river.
From Harnaby Island, Hie Island bears west, and lii(|iiette W. a little Northerly. The
first is three leanius distant, and the latter len miles; ('ape Ari,'i!idc bears W. by S. '; S.
distant three leagues and a half. Cape Ari^rnnle or ( )ni.'iual, and the east end of Hie Is|.
and lie due north and south of each other ; the west end of the Island Hie be"' mh; N. W.
and the east end ul' the reef, which extends .S. K. iVoiu the Island, N. N. K. tli? ''stance
from the (,'apt! to the Hod v ot" ihc Island is about two miles and tlirce quarters.
Between Harnaby and Hie Islands, lies the Kiver Otley and Old Hie ll.ulxu-; the Fliver
Ottey bears S. \V. Cioiii Harnaiiy, distant about live miles, and is of little use to shipping
except to water at. Old Hie is to the westward of Ottey River, ;ibout three miles, and is
a very ijood phice for sniall vessels to lie slieltercd from westerly winds. Tliis haiiioi- has
two round Islands oii the cast side of it. and it is (Uie mile tVom them to the west side of
the Harbor; aiiciior mid-way between the westernmost Island and the west side of tho
harbor in three latlu)ius ;it low water, the west [mint bearinsi west: a single family resides
liere, wlio occasionally can furnish you with provisions, if necessary.
Cape Arigiiole bears from the Harbor of < )ld Hic due west, and is distant about two miles
and a half; from the Cape runs a reef K. by N. one mile, and the east part of that reef,
the west point of Old l>ic Harbor, and (he west cml of the Island of Hie are in a direct
line bearinu; \V. N. W. and K. S. K.; the distance from the east end of the rei f to Old
Bic Harbor is one mile. 'I'o tlie S. K. of the (^ape, is a Bay of no use to shipping bein;;
all foul ground and shoal water. Tlic leadiiiij mark to clear the eastern reefof ( ape AriL'-
nole, goinn in and out of Old Hie Harbor, is to keep tlie swasliway in the S. K. part of
Old Bic Harbor open to the eastward of the west point of the iiarbm', bearin:; K. .*s. K. ! .*>.
in four fathoms water, sprins; tides. The swasliway here mentiimed, is made bv a river
running down between the moiititains. .lust to the westward of the swasliway the 1 ind ap-
pears like chalk, but it really is a white barren rock. It forms a very cood mark for small
vessels coming down from the westward, and intending; to anchor ;it ( *lil Hic, as the r;tst
part of the reef of the Cajie is covered at hi;,'h water, and is all rocks, which dry at low
water.
THE ISLAND OF IHC is moiierately liit,'h and well clothed with trees, its lenjith east
and west is about three miles, and it is surrounded on the east, west, and north sides by
dangerous reefs. Otf its northern sliore lii's a woody islet. l.")ti yards lonij, called Hiqiiette;
this is nearly a mile distant from the Island Hic, but there is no channel for vessels between
them ; the northern side of Biijuette is steep to, and there are ?,0 fathoms water, at a mus-
ket shot distance from it.
FROM Bin ISLAM) ALONd THE SOTTTHKHN SHORF.. WITH THE ISL-
ANDS, ROCKS, AND SHOALS L\ THE KIVER, 'I'O t^l EHEC.
THE ALCIDES ROCK. — This is a daniieron which is said to be no more than eiijht
feet water, but recent navigators seem inclined to disbelieve its existence. Mr. Lambly,
whose name wo have already mentioned, says, " he is sure there is no such rock ; there is,
he states, a rock with 10 feet water, but that lies S. \V. by S. 3', miles distant from the west
end of the Island of Hic, and only one mile from the main. Vessels sailing in 10 fathoms
water, will go to tiie northward of it, it lying coinpletelv out of the fair way track of snip-
ping: this rock and the N. W. Ledge that stretches from the west end of Hic, are the on-
ly dangers to be avoided."
South-west, distant one mile from (^ape Arignole, lies the east side of the Bay Ha Ha;
it is about three-quarters of a mile wide, and one mile deep; small vessels may anchor with
the east part of the Hay bearing N. E. the east end of Bic Island will then be shut in with
it, in two or three fathoms at low water, sheltered from ' asterly winds; but the Bay is of
no use to large vessels.
Between two and three leagues to the westward p'' Ha Ha Bay there is a sniall rivulet,
where in the spring of the year, there is a reinar'^able waterfall; and a league aud a half
further west, are the Razade or Bumper Islands.
I
THE IIAZADE
always above water,
irrf) of a mile apart.
jn« a full league Iro
Iroin llie noriliward
Hank is commuiily
HAStilE IS LA
S. W.by W. I \V.
aiice, and is coverec
nide is bold to. I'x
a small setilemeiii.
AIM'LE ISLA>
three barren mcky
and a little to the m
dry at low water; ll
GREEN ISLA?
i<i distant nearly a It
N. K. and S. W. al
river, stands a liL'liil
hibits a regular ligh
rise, its bearings bei
ly. the Brandy i'oi>
J S. from the shoal
at the west end (d' t
the middle Apple h
house will have the
visible six leauues o
ledge that runs olf t
it: it is covered at I
shoal lies directly it
There is a rocky
westernmost part id
through it strongly
the lightlHuise bean
It may be jn-oper
light, as a high ligh
a line drawn throng
tween Red and (Jrei
fair way iietween Hi
On the outermos
side of Bas(|ue Isla
line ; therefore by l>
ship will clear the r
ship will lead clear
CACANA is the
the water between i
northward of the st
about a mile from e
one mile ; and are :
of tliem. Von wil
BARRET'S LI
buoy, having the m
the northernmost I
ernmost mountain i
Tilgrim Island S. :
west Cape of the I
River du Lou|) S. '
dii Loup. 'I'hese
E. and S. fi.'}" W.
between them are ]
RED ISLAND
above 20 feet abovi
situated nearly in t
six miles ; w hile tj
lighthouse N. W.
WHITE IS^^A
3^ leagues, beii.g i
BLUM'S AMEURAN TOAST PILOT.
71
THF. RAZADK ISLANDS aic, Ntriclly Hppiikinj;, two larur liarrrii rnckn, ii|)ppflriii((
nlway^ al)ovt' witirr, atnl luiinnii Irom ta<li oilirr N. K. anil S. W. hriiig ahout tlirrt* quar-
trrH ol' a iiiiln apail. A Hank nC sutitiilin^iH ixiiikIn all tlii> way Iioim iii(|iH'tt>- I.Hlaii(l, rfacli-
int; a lull li-auiii- troiii ilic slioti', witli iVdiii 10 to -Jd lathoins n|ioii it, and vthHcLs may pa.sn
trotn lli*^ northward ol ilit- Ka/.aili- and lSa.Hi|iif Islands in 10 raltinin^t, liiil ilic ed^r ol this
Hank Is cnnnnunly steep to, and Ijiin^ oil it you will Kuddcniy drop into diM'p water.
llASt^lK ISIiAM) lifs \V. N. \V. trorn tin; wrstcrn KaV.adr, distant two niili"!*, and
S. W.hy W. \ W. Irom the Island of Uir, distant alioiit li Itaiiues; it has a round appear-
ance, and is eovered with tret-s ; at present there art; no houses upon it, and itM northern
«ide IS hold to. iiehind lSas(|iie Island, and sitiiali d on the main land, is 'I'hree I'iHioleH,
a HUiidl settlement.
Al'I'LK ISLANDS lie a leayue ami a half W. S. \V. from Hasr|tiP Island; they are
tliree barren rocky Islets, the middle one lieint; eonsiderahly the largest: between tliein,
and a little to the northward of the west enri of Hasipie Island, there are some rucks which
dry at low water; these are steep to, and very near them are 10 lathoiris.
GKKEN ISLAM) lies lu the S. west of Apple Islands, from whieh its northern point
19 di-tant nearly » league and a half, it thence continues in the directitin of the laiul nearly
N. K. and S. W. about three leanues; liere, on a point that projects northward into the
river, stands a liirhihouse, which is 70 feet above the level of the low water mark: and ex-
hibits a ret;ular lii^ht from the liith of April to the 15lh of December, from sun set to sun
rise, its l>earinKs beina as follow: from Ked Island K. S. K. White Island K. N.E. norther-
ly, the Jkandy Pots N. K. by K. j E. Apple Island S. W. by W. Basque Island W. S. W.
J S. from the shoal at the north-east end of (irecn Island S. W. by S. anil from the shoal
at the west end of the Island N. E. From Has(|ne Island it is distant i;j miles; and from
the middle Apple IsIatuI, 7 miles. To vessels either noiny up or down the river, the light-
house will have the appearance of a ship, beinj; very conspicuous, while the li>;lit will be
visible six leagues oil. There is no danger on the north side ol (irecn Island, except tha
ledge that runs off the lighthouse, and this leili;e stretches out ,' of a mile N. E. by N. from
it: it is covered at liigli *' ater spring tiih-s, but steep to and roiky: the extremity of the
slioal lies directly in a line with IJasijue Island and ('ape Ariunole, bearing E. N. E.
There is a rocky reef at the western end of (Jreen Island, which dries for a mile; the
westernmost part of this reel is there detached from tiie dry part, and the flood tide sets
through it strongly towards Caeana; this part is only covered at a (piarter tide, and when
the lighthouse bears N. E. \ E. you will be in its direction.
It may be proper to state that the lighthouse on (ireen Island, was intended for a low
light, as a high light was to have been erected on the island beliind it, on such a spot, that
a line drawn through their centres would fortii a line of sailini; to lead sliips in at: 1 out, be-
tween Red and (ireen island Shoals, and sulliciently far to the eastward, to insure them a
fairway between Hie and Mille Vache Shoal.
On the outermiist part of the reef that lays N. E. by N. from this lighthouse, the norttk
side of Hasqun Island and the high land to the southward of C'a|)e a I' Original are in one
line; theiefoie by keeping the said highlands open to the northward of Basque Island, a
ship will clear the reef: by keeping White Islarul open to the northward of Hare Island, a
sliip will lead clear of, and be in a fairway berth from Ked Island Shoal.
CACANA is the high bliitf land lying S. S. W. from the S. W. end of Green Island^
the water between is deep; one and a half mile to the westward of Caeana, and just to the
northward of the stream of if, lie the Perces or Percy Rocks; these form two clusters,
about a mile from each other, bearing east and west ; they are distant from the mairy)early
one mile; and are almost eovered at high water; but there is no |)assage to the southward
of them. Vim will always go clear of them by kee[)ing in not less than 10 fathoms water..
BARRET'S LEDfJE is two detached rocks; on the soutii-western rocks lies a black
buoy, having the northern extremity of the main land within (Jreen island, in a line with
the northernmost high land of (Jape Arignole, bearing N 64^^ E. the summit of the south-
ernmost mountain in the Highland of Ivaniaraska in one with tlie south point of the Great
I'ilgrim Island S. .30^ W. the eastern si 'e of the trees on Hare Island in one witli the
west ('ape of the iiay of Rocks, on the north shore N. 47° W. and two houses near the
River du Loui) S. 29"^ E. the latter are the only two houses between the (Jhurch and River
dti Loup. These rocks are distant from each other one quarter of a mile, bearing V.G.I^"
E. and .S. fi:}" W. the N. E. rock has 15 feet water over it, tlie S. W. rock only 12, while
between them are 11 fathoms.
RED ISLAND. — This is alow, flat, reddis'i-looking island, without trees; and not
above 'JO feet above tlie level of the high water mark ; it is surrounded with slioals ; and
situated nearly in the middle of the river, bearing from the liahthouse W. N. W. distant
six miles ; while the outer or eastern extremity of the reefs about it, bears from the same
lighthouse N. W.
WHITE IS^^ AND.— This is a small island lying S. W. \ W. from Red Island, distant
3^ leagues, beii.g round and covered with trees; a reef of rocks extends N. E. ^ E. full &
i
III
IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-S)
1.0
I.I
M 12.5
■ 50
K
1.8
1.25 1.4
1.6
—
-^
6" —
1*
Photographic
Sciences
Corporation
23 WEST MAIN STREET
WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580
(716) 872-4503
<.
4^^
72
BLUM'S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
H
■ 1,
1
i \
lj
1
miles from the oast end of Hare Island, drying to about half that distance ; midway between
the Red Island and this reef are 20 and "Jo fathoms.
It may be proper to remark here, that, from this part, a bank extends nearly parallel to
the shores of the river, so far as the Goose Islands ; it is narrow, and may be crossed in
many places, but it naturally divides the navigation of the river into two channels ; that to
the south-eastward is the one most conimoidy frequented, the other to the north-westward,
having strong tides, deep water, and no godd ancliorage.
. . HARE ISLAND. — This island lies S. W. } ,S. distant only three quarters of a mile
from White Island, thence it exleiids to the S. W. full eight miles; in no part exceeding
hi breadth one mile, bu^ in several places not equalling half a mile. S. by W. one mile
from the east end of Hare Island, lies the southernmost of some small islets called the
Brandy Pots, on which a telegraph is erected. The northernmost Brandy Pot is close to
the southern one ; it is high and covered with trees; the southernmost is a whitish rock
nearly barren; they are each about half a mile long, lying N. V/. and S. E. of each other,
the ground between them drying at low water; they lie nearly a I of a mile from the south
side of Hare Island, with no passage for vessels between. A little to the east of the north-
ern Brandy Pot is the Noggin, a small islet covered with trees ; at low water these are
connected by a chain of rocks, leaving a passage only fit for boats. Halfway between the
Noggin and the east end of Hare Island is a reef of rocks which dries at low water; it lies
close to Hare Island, and therefore not in the way of shipping ; and by keeping in 7 fa-
thoms, you will always go clear.
To the westward of the Brandy Pots, the south side of Hare Island has a flat of hard
ground, extending from it, being three miles long and one quarter of a mile broad : the
whole of this side of the island is bounded by rocks.
MIDDLE GROUND.— South-westward of Barret's Ledge, and between Hare Island
and the main land, lies a shoal called the Middle Ground, its north-east end begins where
the Brandy Pots bear N. W. distant two miles j it runs S. W. by W. from thence about
four miles; the least water on its N. E. part is 2 fathoms, on its middle 3 fatlioms, and on
its western end 5 fathoms : the anchorage upon it is good in 'ine weather. When the
west end of Hare Island bears West, Cape Salmon, on the north side of the river, will be
open to the westward of it : but you will observe that, with this mark on, about half a mile
to the northward of the Middle Ground is a small knoll with only 14 feet water upon it.
By keeping White Island between Hare Island and the Brandy I'ots, y-m will pass to the
southward of this knoll in 5 fathoms water.
HARE ISLAND SHOAL. — This is a long shoal, beginning about a mile above the
west end of Hare Island, and running up in a S. W. direction, full three miles; and a
considerable part of it becomes dry at.low water; the western extremity that dries, bears
from the west end of the Pilgrims N. 35° W. and the eastern extreme due north : the bank
is composed of sand, some part of it being above the level of high water mark, but it is
bold to on its southern side, and 7 fathoms will lead right along its edge. Between the
8ho»l and the Pilgrim Islands, the channel is not three miles wide.
According to the information of Captain Watson, of the ship Perseverance, there is a
baak of 13, 14, 15, and 16 feet in this part of the channel, lying in the same direction with
the Hare Island Shoal, and having a narrow channel of 3 fathoms water between them;
the south part of this bank lies W. J S. from the Northern Pil-rriin, distant nearly 5 miles
S. W. ^ S from the Brandy Pots. S. S. W. from the western part of Hare Island, dis-
tant 4 J miles, and N. E. by N. from the Kamaraska Islands, distant 6 miles, at which spot
there are only 2^ fatl m s water: the bottom is hard, flat, and clear from rocks; should
this description prove correct, mariners passing through this part of the river will do well
to borrow somewhat closer towards the Pilgrim Islands, keepinc; at about a mile from them,
they will then go clear of all da ger, and have from 8 to 10 fathoms water.
THE PILGRIMS are four islands connected together by reefs, that become dry at low
water; they occupy a space of about three miles, and are distant one mile and a half from
the main, but there is no passage between them and the south land. The N. E. or (4reat
Pilgrim, bears from the Brandy Pots S. 18° W. distant eight miles, and from the S. W. end
of Hare Island, S. 36° E. distant 3V miles; this is the highest island, and covered with
trees; the others appear white and barren. The south-westernmost or Long Island, lias
a telegraph upon it, and lies in the direction of S. W. and N. E. its west end bears from
the west end of Hare Island S. 10° W. they are all bold to on the northern side.
KAMARASKA ISLANDS. — These are a collection of small islands lying ofl'the south
side of the river, between the Pilgrims and Cape Diable, and in front of the Church and
settlement of Kamaraska. The Great or N. E. Island, beais from the western Pilgrim,
S. W. distant two leagues ; there is a bank extendmg from one to the other, with three
fathoms upon it, and 10 fathoms close to its northern edge; the second is called Burnt
Island, and lies close to the westward of Great Island ; on its western end is a telegraph.
Crow Island lies S. S. W. from the west end of Burnt Island, distant half a mile : there
«re also two lesser Islands at the inner side of Burnt Island. These Islauds occupy a
midway between
nearly parallel to
lay be cros^sed in
channels ; that to
i north-westward,
(uarters of a mile
10 part exceeding
by W. one mile
I islets called the
Jy Pot is close to
is a whitish rock
E. of each other,
ile from the south
east of the north-
water these are
' way between the
low water ; it lies
keeping in 7 fa-
has a flat of hard
L mile broad : the
/een Hare Island
end begins where
lom thence about
3 fathoms, and on
ther. When the
f the river, will be
, about half a mile
;et water upon it.
u will pass to the
a mile above the
ree miles ; and a
that dries, bears
north: the bank
r mark, but it is
e. Between the
nance, there is a
irie direction with
between them ;
Int nearly 5 miles
rlare Island, dis-
|cs, at which spot
rocks ; should
river will do well
mile from them,
lecome dry at low
and a half from
N. E. or (treat
bn the S. W. end
|ul covered w}th
jong Island, has
end bears from
In side.
ling off the south
Ithe Church and
Testern Pilgrim,
Iher, with three
lis called Burnt
ll is a telegraph.
Ilf a mile : there
llauds occupy a
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST IMLOT.
73
ipacc of three miles, and are about one mile off shore, the bank between drying at low
water. Great and Burnt Islands are both bold and steep to on the north side, but Crow
Island has shoal water around it, and bears from Kamaraska Church N. W. distant three
quarters of a mile ; between is a safe landing place.
From Crow Island, Cape Diable bears S. W. distant nearly three miles, but from the
Cape, in the direction of Crow Island, runs a rocky reef, the eastarnmost part of which is
covered at a quarter flood, and is not more than a mile from Crow Island. Two miles above
Cape Diable is Point St. Denis, to the southward of which is a little Cove with an Island
in it, on which stands a Telegraph. There is good riding opposite to this Cove, at one
mile or one mile and a half distance from shore, in from 10 to 15 fathoms.
The land from St. Denis runs S. W. to Point Oval, and is all low, with regular sound-
ings before it; Point Oval has a rocky reef attached to it, which stretches out W. and S.
westerly a full mile and a half; roui.ding this point you will open the River Oval, on the
eastern banks of which is a Church and Settlement : from Cape Diable to Point Oval, the
distance is 7 miles. Nearly 8 miles to the south-westward of Point Oval is Point St. Roch ;
a sand bank stretches out from this latter Point, at the extremity of which a black buoy is
placed in 2^ fathoms, this lies with the Road and St. Roch's Church in one, bearing S. E.
by S- and the northernmost part of trie Land of Kamaraska, just open of the low Point of
St. Denis, bearing N. E. by E. 1 E. St. Ann's Church E. \ S. Oval Church E. by N. the
east end of Coudre Island N. N. W. \ W. and Cape Goose N. N. E. Between PoinU
Oval and St. Roch is an extensive Bay, commonly known by the name of St. Ann's Bay :
it is shallow all over, for a sandy flat beginning at Point Oval extends itself W. by S. so
far as the buoy of St. Roch ; this flat is studded with sunken rocks, and very dangerous.
A floating light vessel lies about a fourth of a mile below the station of the black buoy,
which was laid many years since on the outermost part of the large shoal off St. Roch's
Church, in 4^ fathoms at low water. The said buoy lays with the following land marks,
bearings, Jcc.'&c. St. Roch's Church S. E. by S. the steeple is then immediately in one,
with the road that runs up from the church into the Concessions, and about 5 miles distant.
The northernmost high lands of Kamaraska in one with the low point of St. Deois,
b:)aring about N. E. by E. \ E. Pillar Boise, shut twice its breadth with the S. point of
Goose Island, bearing S. W. quarter W. The buoy lies in 2^ faUioms water.
Ships should give the light vessel a fair berth and run up abov^ the black buoy on tb.e'r
S. W. by W. course, and then haul in to the southward to h fu'ioni'^ of water ; the course
will then be S. S. W. to the pillars, and the distance from the piaats to the light vessel ia
about 11 miles.
ENGLISH AND MIDDLE BANKS.— Directly opposite the black buoy of St. Roch,
lies the red buoy of the Middle Bank, from which it bears N. W. by W. distant one mile,
the marks being the summit of the second mountain of the high land of Kamaraska, to
one with the low land of St. Denis; and Pilier Boise open its own breadth to the south-
ward of Goose Island ; the tiiwart marks are, the road behind St. Roch's Church, open to
the westward of said Church, three times the church's length, and the black buoy S. E.
byE. the channel for shipping is between these two buoys; the depth of water being from
11 to 14 fathoms. This is considered the most intricate part of the river; the currents
here are various, irregular, and strong, so that it cannot be passed in safety, except at a pro-
per time of tide. A bank occupies the middle of the River St. Lawrence, stretching all the
way from Hare Island to the Middle Bank; it is generally about a mile wide, with from 3
to 14 fathoms over it; but the soundings are regular, and the bottom sand and mud, afford-
ing good anchorage. It is called the English Bank : and that part of the river between it
and the southern shore is commonly called the English Channel. The Middle Bank be-
gins a little to the westward of the red buoy where there are 2,V fathoms water; it thence
extends S. W. \ W. for 3 leagues, nearly reaching the Seal Islands; about li mile west-
ward of tlie buoy, it shallows to 4 feet, and continues so for a league, being composed of
mud, sand, and stones ; its western end dries at low water.
To the westward are the Seal Islands or Reefs ; these are connected to the South Pillar
by a reef of rocks, which, at low water, become dry in several places, and extend N. by W.
towards the Island of Coudre; they are a body of rocks nearly covered at high water,
spring tides, and are very steep to on their southern and eastern sides.
The Pilier Boise or Woody Pillar lies to the S. Westward of these reefs, and is 3 miles
N. E. from the east end of Goose Island ; it is a high round rock, with some trees on its
western part. The South Pillar is a barren high rock, one quarter of a mile long, and al-
ways visible : this Pillar marks the north side of the west entrance to what is called the
•Traverse.
*0n the Traverse a light vessel is placed every spring and removed every autumn, at the close of
navigation ; also Buoys placed ss follows, viz. A red Buoy off St. John's Church, on the south bank
10
i1
I
74
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
il :•
il
L
THE TRAVERSE is that part of the river which is bounded on the north side by the
Seal and Middle Br.nks, and on the south side by the shoals oft' Point St. Roch, from
Point Oval to the Three Salmon River; vessels frequently anchor there, but the ground is
hard, and the » rents strong.
THE ROCHE AV^IGNON is a half tide rock, 100 yards in length, quite round at the
top, and lies two or three cables' lengths S. E. from the body of the South Pillar; there
are 7 fathoms watf r close to it. Crane Island, kept well open to the southward of the
large reef o(f Goose Island, next described, leads clear to the southward of it.
S. \V. by VV. about two miles from the South Pillar, begins a ledge of high rocks, which
runs up to the middle of Goose Island, from which the upper end is but half a mile dis-
tant; with the exception of their eastern part they are always above water; this is called
Goose Island Reef, and forms the mark for clearing the Avignon. There is an opening
between the east end of (Joose Island Reef and the South Pillar, leading towards Piljer
Boisse; but at low water it is surrounded with rocks both east and westward, it therefore
forms no outlet for shipping.
GOOSE ISLAND is nearly three leagues in length, and, whervabove the reef, becotnes
bold to, with regular soundings; there is a farm house on thi island, just to the eastward
of which is the Hospital Rock ; it is large and close to the low water mark : to the west-
ward of this rock, for the distance of a mile and a half, ships may safely be run on shore,
for it is all soft mud ; but further on, two miles from the Hospital Rock, the shore be-
comes rocky, a long reef commencing, which, as it lies close to Goose Island, is out of the
way, and consequently easily avoided.
CRANE ISLAND lies a little above Goose Island, and is about 4 miles long ; the
northern side is cultivated, and a farm house appears at the east end : to the S. E. of this
house, about half a mile or three quarters of a mile, lies Madame Beaujeu's Bank, having
on its shoalest part not more than twelve feet water over if; it is connected to the main land
of St. Ignace by a shoal of 4 and 3j fathoms. The channel between Beaujeu's Bank and
the eastern end of Crane Island has 10 fathoms in it, but its breadth scarcely exceeds half
a mile.
To the westward of Crane Island lies a cluster of small islands, named Canoe Island, the
Heads, Onion, Margaret's, and Grosse Islands, and a little further are Rat and Madame
Isles ; above which is the large Island of Orleans.
From the western end ol Crane Island a reef of rocks extends half a mile, drying at
low water; there is an opening between Crane and Canoe Islands; but although there are
2j fathoms in it, the channel is too narrow for shipping : the island of Margaret lies to the
westward of Canoe Island, it is about 2k miles long ; the opening between Margaret's and
Grosse Islands is half a mile wide, but shoal, and affbrds no passage for ships. Grosse is
three miles in length, lying N. E. by E. and S. W. by W. It is inhabited.
Rat Island is about the length of Grosse Island, but narrow. Madame Island is some-
what smaller than Rat Island ; both are covered with trees ; from Madame Island a rocky
reef extends S. W. by W. 3 miles, drying at low water, and ships ought not to go nearer
to it than 10 fathoms water. The mark to clear it is, some part of Rat Island kept open to
the southward of Madame Island. The western extremity of the reef lies with St. Valier's
Church, bearing South.
At the back of these islands, there are numerous shoals extending all the way to the isl-
and of Coudre, among these the river craft frequently pass towards St. Paul's and Mai
Bays; these form a continued chain to Neptune Rock, and Burnt Cape Ledge, being the
outer boundary of the northern channel, now very little used or understood.
THE SOUTHERN SHORE.— In following the Southern Shore from St. Roch's
Point you will see the Church of St. John's standing on a projecting point, about 2'; leagues
distant from the Church of St. Roch; behind the iatter, at some distance inland, is a
Telegraph. Nearly at the same distance from St. John's Church, and in a similar direc-
tion, stands the Telegraph of the Islet St. Jean; and between these is Port Jolie and Three
Salmon River, fit only for small craft ; further on is the Church and Telegraph of St. Ig-
nace; this lies to the southward of Madame Beaujeu's Bank, from which it is distant near-
ly IV league. The shore all the way from St. Roch's Point to St. Thomas's River is lined
with a sandy fiat of three, two, and one fathom water.
Two leagues to the S. Westward of Beaujeau's Bank, and about the same distance from
St. Ignace, lies the entrance to St. Thomas's or South River ; from this land, a flat or
mud bank extends more than half way towarda Crane Island ; it is named St. Thomas's
Bank, or Quart Point, its northern extremity bears S. W. by W. distant two miles, from
the south point of the island ; it is a dangerous bank, and chiefly dries at low water.
f.
of the river, in 1 1-4 fathoms. A white Buoy on the middle ground. A black Buoy opposite to the
last on the St. Roque Shoal, and a chequered black and white Buoy off St. Ann's Church, on the St.
Ann's shoal, south bank of the river.
le north side by the
int St. Roch, from
e, but the ground is
, quite round at the
south Pillar; there
( southward of the
rd of it.
f high rocks, which
but half a mile dis-
ater; this is called
iiere is an opening
ding towards Filler
stward, it therefore
e the reef, becomes
ust to the eastward
mark : to the west-
ly be run on shore,
ock, the shore be-
Island, is out of the
4 miles long ; the
o the S. E.of this
ijeu's Bank, having
ed to the main land
ieaujeu's Bank and
arcely exceeds half
[1 Canoe Island, the
! Rat and Madame
If a mile, drying at
although there are
Vlargaret lies to the
en Margaret's and
r ships. Grosse is
ted.
Tie Island is some-
ime Island a rocky
It not to go nearer
sland kept open to
es with St. Valier's
the way to the isl-
t. Paul's and Mai
•Ledge, being the
ood.
frcm St. Roch's
t, about 2.\ leagues
stance inland, is a
in a similar direc-
»rt Jolie and Three
^le^zraph of St. Ig-
it is distant near-
las's River is lined
ame distance from
his land, a flat or
led St. Thomas's
It two miles, from
low water.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
75
Buoy opposite to the
Church, on the St.
THE WYE ROCKS are immediately above the Bank of St. Thomas, this bank lies in
the direction of S. W. by W. and is about half a mile long; over its western end are only
four feet water, and over its east end ten feet ; at its western end there now lies a black buoy,
the marks for which are St. Thomas's Church E. S. E. St. Thomas's Telegraph S. \ E.
and the Seminary of St. Joachim just shut in with the east end of Rat Island, bearing N.
.•iO" VV. Its distance from the nearest shore is less than one mile ; the long mark for this
Rock is Belle Chasse Islands and St. Michael's Telegraph in one ; the islands will then be
twice their breadth open to the northward of Point St. Valier.
THE BELLE CHASSE ROCKS are two remarkable rocky islets that lie eight miles
above the Wye Rocks, they are opposite to Berthier Church, and about a mile off shore ;
behind them is a small sandy cove, a reef of rocks running from its western point. Beyond
these you will perceive, standing on rising ground, another Telegra|)h, No. 4, being part of
a chain communicating to Quebec. St. Valier's Church is two miles to the westward of
the Telegraph, and bears from the Church of St. .John, in the Island of Orleans, S. E.
distant three miles ; there is a large cove to the southward of St. Valier's Point, but it dries
at low water. The ground from St. Valier's Point is foul, and affords no anchorage all the
way up to Quebec. Nearly five miles beyond St. Valier is the Church of St. Michael, near
which stands another T^degraph; 3 leagues above this is the Church of Beaumont: St.
Lawrence and Beaumont Churches bear from each other S. W. by S. and N. E. by N. dis-
tant 4.t miles: between them extends a large rocky shoal, called Beaumont's Shoal, it dries
at low water, and extends nearly half way across the channel, uneven, dangerous, and
steep to, there being 14 fathoms close to it. From Beaumont the coast turns about W. N.
W. 7 miles to Point Levy.
ORLEANS. — The Island of Orleans bounds the starboard shore, frcm Madame Island
to nearly abreast of Point Levy; its shores generally slope down to the beach, except in
some few places where small rocky cUffs arise of neither great extent nor elevation. It is
well cultivated, and very fertile; its northern shores are flat and muddy, and lined with a
reef of rocks, but its southern side is fine sand, with here and there a pointed rock. The
Churches of St. John and St. Lawrence stand near the shore, the distance between them
being 5\ miles, this part is highly diversified with gardens and houses. Patrick's Hole is a
little to the westward of Point St. Lawrence, and is a safe and well sheltered cove, where
vessels outward bound commonly anchor in 10, 12, or 14 fathoms, previous to taking their
,ual departure; the ground cannot be accounted good, but it is well sheltered frono easter-
ly gales, and the river here is bold on each side, being about 1} mile wide; just to the east-
ward of the cove stands the Telegraph, No. 2; and on the western part of the point is a
cluster of neat houses, where accommodations of all kinds may be obtained.
About half way between the west end of Orleans and St. Patrick's Hole are the Moran-
dan's Rocks, running out one cable's lengtn from the shore ; they have 10 feet water over
them, and 12 fathoms in sailing past them. At the S. W. part of the island are other rocks
which dry at low water; these are close to the land, and may safely be pasoed in 10 fathoms
water. This is the highest part v. ' e island, and here stands the Church of St. Peter,
about 4 miles from the western point, and nearly opposite to the Falls of Montmorency.
The Point of Levy is surrounded with a reef, which continues along shore to the west-
ward, but by giving the land a berth, you will go safely in 10 fathoms.
QUEBEC. — The Btusin of Quebec is about one mile across, tVom Point Levy to Que-
bec, or to the opposite shore of Beauport ; the water between is very deep. The HAR-
BOR of QUEBEC may be said to commence at St. Patrick's Point, and extend to Cape
Rouge River, three miles above Quebec.
THE PORT OF QUEBEC comprehends all that space which lies between Barnaby
Island and the first rapid above Montreal. The BALLAST (tROUND is a part appointed
by law to heave the ballast into, oeing to the westward of two beacons that stand on the
south shore, between Patterson's and Charles's Coves : these beacons are situated on the
brow of a hill, and, when in a line, bear S. E.
The regulations, with respect to the shipping and quarantine, in the port and harbor of
Quebec, must be strictly attended to : all pilots are bound to give the masters of vessels
due information relative to quarantine, as soon as they come on board; and a copy of the
harbor laws is delivered to each vessel, on her arrival, by the harbor master: and those re-
specting shipping are always to be seen at the harbor master's office.
THE CITY (»F QUEBEC is built on Cape Diamond, which is exceedingly high;
from hence, and from Point Levy, the views are magnificent and beautifully varied; the
Capitol on the summit of the Cnpe, the River St. Charles flowing to the northward, the Falls
of Montmorency to the north-eastward, and the well cultivated Island of Orleans, form al-
together a most beautiful spectacle.
The Island of Orleans divides the river into two parts, or channels, but the southern
channel, which has been described, is the only one the pilots make use of for large ships.
t
h
76
bluiNt'vS amkrican coast pilot.
The River St. Lawrence is not navigable from the early part of December to the middle
of A{)ril, on account of the severity of the frosts; during this period its upper part, from
Quebec to Kingston, in Upper Canada, and between the lakes, with the exception of Ni-
Kgaraand the Rapids, is frozen over; but below Quebec, although the river is never whol-
ly frozen, yet the strength of the tides continually detach the masses of ice from the shores,
and such immense bodies are kept in incessant agitation, by the flui« and reflux, that navi-
gation becomes impracticable. At the beginning of May, the ice is either dissolved or car-
ried off by the current.
DIRECTIONS FOR SAILING UP THE RIVER ST. LAWRENCE, FROM
ANTICOSTl TO QUKBEC.
REMARKS. — It has been obseiTed that the current, between the S. W. point of Anti-
costi and the coast of Haspe, sets strongly from the rivf r to the south-eastward ; that in the
spring of the year, probably in conscijuence of the melting of the snow, its velocity is always
the greatest. In summer it mny be averaged at about the u;eneral rate of two miles an hour,
but in spring it becomes variable, aiid much beyond that rapidity ; at times it will run .3i
miles an hoar, and often more than that, depending greatly on tl;e quantity of ice and snow
that has accumulated. And it has been said, that, during the months of May and August,
the water will be elevated two or three feet above its ordinary level.
Mariners entering the river hettreen Anlicosti, and Gaspe, when in the fair way, having
the wind at north or nortli-east, and being uninforinod of this current, will be led to im-
ag' "e they are making a reach up, when really they will be approaching the southern shore ;
this is an error that must be particularly guarded against, especially in long dark nights and
foggy weather ; be, therefore, always careful to tack in time.
Ships coming vp with contrary ndiids, and boing far enough to the westward to weather
the west point of Anticosti, should constantly su^nd to the northward, and endeavor to sail
on, within 3 or 4 leagues of the northern shore : for the land is all bold to ; you will be out
of the strength of the current, and the nearer you get to the land, the more you will be
favored by the tide. Run up so far as Point Deamon, and when up to Trinity Bay, should
your vessel sail well, you will, by keeping in with the north shore, have the advantage of a
flood tide, and may probably be enabled to get through the Narrows; but should your ship
Bail badly, you can take shelter in Trinity Bay, (which is described in page 65 of this work.)
Should circumstances render it necessary, you may proceed to St. Nicholas Harbor,
which lies W. by N. about 5 leagues to the westward of Point Deamon ; (see page 65,)
keep close along the land, but take great care to avoid the Manicougan Shoals.
Abreast of the Manicougan Shoals and standing to the northward, distant about one-third
of the breadth of the river from the northern shore, a strong rippling has been frequently
t>b8erved ;• about 2 miles further to the northward you meet with a similar one, and 2 miles
beyond that is another: these are visible only in fine weather, and are conjectured to be oc-
casioned by the slack of the eastern current, which runs down, on the south shore and in
the middle, and the regular flood to the north. Mr. Lambly has frequently tried forsound-
ings upon themv but without finding any bottom. Vessels standing on towards Betsimet's
and Mille Vache Points, will experience similar appearances, and when above Mille Vache
the ripplings increase; but there is no danger whatever, it being merely the conflicting con-
cussion of the opposing streams.
It is advisable, when a ship has advanced on the northern side, so far as Betsimet's
Point, with the wind at west and a flood tide, to cross over towards Father Point, in order
to obtain a pilot : but should the wind shift to S. W. by W. it will be advantageous still to
keep the northern land on board, until you can with greater certainty fetch that point.
The current between Mille Vache and Bic Island will always be found strong toward
the N. E. ; this must be particularly attended to, for if a proper allowance be not made for
this current, you will be driven fast to the northward, and, before you are aware of it, will
be drifted into imminent danger.
Ships coming up with a fair wind, and under favorable circumstances, may proceed along
the south shore ; the land all the way from Gaspe, is bold and high, but it affords no sort
of shelter : soundings may occasionally be found, but very irregular, and there is no an-
chorage whatever. On advancing towards Cape Chat, which may be readily known 'jy the
Sugar Loaf Hill already described, as well as by its bioken and uneven mountains, steer
W. by S. for about 11 or 12 leagues, you will then be a little to the eastward of Matane,
and may perceive the Paps of Matane, bearing S. W. A W. ; these are two hills, standing
somewhat inland, and appearing to the westward of the river; Mount Caraille will also be
visible bearing S. W. by W. 1 W. distant 14 c fifteen leagues; it forms in the shape of a
circular island, and appears to the northward of all the s-outhern land. From off Matane
to abreast of Mount Camille, steer W. S. W. or W. by S. according to ihe -.vind. Con-
tinuing that course, you will pass Little and Great Metis, or JViathia, ?nd. if desirous of an-
mber to the middle
ts upper part, from
e exception of Nj.
river is never vfhoi-
ice from the shores,
id reflux, that navi-
ler dissolved or car-
RENCE, FROM
W. point of Anti-
stward ; that in the
its velocity is always
r two miles an hour,
times it will run 3i
itityof ice and snow
of May and August,
the fair way, having
:, will be led to im-
the southern shore ;
ong dark nights and
estward to weather
nd endeavor to sail
to ; you will be out
e more you will be
Trinity Bay, should
; the advantage of a
ut should your ship
!ge65 of this work.)
Nicholas Harbor,
on; (see page 63,)
Shoals.
ant about one-third
las been frequently
ar one, and 2 miles
njectured to be oc-
iouth shore and in
itly tried forsound-
:oward8 Betsimet's
above Mille Vache
le conflicting con-
far as Betsimet's
er Point, in order
vantageous still to
tch that point,
und strong toward
ce be not made for
re aware of it, will
may proceed along
It it affords no sort
d there is no an-
dily known by the
mountains, steer
tward of Matane,
wo hills, standing
iraille will also be
s in the shape of a
From off Matane
ihe wind. Con-
• if desirous of an-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
77
i
choring at Little Metis Cove you must give the east end of the reef a berth of 100 yards,
or cross it in 3 fathoms and let go : sninll vessels may find shelter here in 3 fathoms, at
low water.
GRP2AT METIS isS^eagues S. W. from Little Metis, and is only fit for small ves-
nels ; these may find sheher and anchorage with H. W. winds, but it nearly d'ios, and there-
fore is of little use to shipping. Little Metis may be distinguished from Cireat Metis by
a round bluff rock, which lies S. E. from the North Reef, distant l^j mile, and a small
sugar-loaf hill to the eastward of the rock, (ireat Metis has a large rock in the middle of
the Cove, Little Metis has none; but you must be within 2 or 3 leagues of the shore to
make these Coves out, for the points of land they are formed by, are very low.
The Bank of Soundings extends farther from the shore, about these Coves, than it does
at Matane ; at the distance of 4 miles from the land, you will here have 35 fathoms, be-
yond that distance you suddenly drop into 60 and 70 fathoms ; the edge of the bank con-
tinues steep and high all the way up to (ireen Island ; within 10 fathoms the ground is hard,
and the landing bad, except in very fine weather; for the coast between Great and Little
Mathis is full of rocks, which run off half a mile from the shore. Westward of Little Ma-
this is Death's Cove, where the pilot boats shelter in easterly winds, and lie dry at low wa-
ter. Cock Cove is at the eastern part cf Father Point. Between Great Mathis and Cock
Cove ships may stop a tide, if the weather is fine, in 15 fathoms : this is the kc^ular rendez-
vous for the pilots : here they repair about the month of April, but thry w ill frequently,
after that time, be met with off Matane, or so far as Cape Chat; on their sails and boats
are their respective numbers. Should a vessel be olf Cape Chat, distant about 3 leagues,
she may safely steer W. S. W. or W. by S. 23 lcno;ues, making a proper allowance for the
(Murent, and she will be up to Father Point, or very near it ; then, should the weather be
thick, she may haul to the southward, and after getting soundings, if the water shoalens
from 36 to 20 and 18 fathoms in a short distance, such as a mile, you will not be up to Fa-
ther Point, and should run 4 or 5 miles higher; but if you get soundings, and the water
gradually shoalens from .35 to 30, 25, &c. fathoms, in a distance of three or four miles, then
they are ip to the Point, and may make the signal for a pilot, standing no nearer than 10
or 12 fathoms, as they will then be onlv two miles from shore ; but should the weather be
clear, they will see the houses, and t..ay make as free as they choose, the shore being all
bold.
The distanco from* Cape Chat to the west part of Father Point is about 23 leagues, and
from thence to the anchoring place at Bic Island is 1!) miles; make an allowance for the
current, of five miles, and any ship may run it with safety.
Ships being off Little Mathis will see the high land which is to the southward of Cape
Arignole, but the Cape itself and the Island of Bic being much lower, will not be visible;
off Mount Camille, Bin Island may be perceived very plain in clear weather.
Some years ago, a master of a vessel mistook the Island of Barnaby for the Island of
Bic, and hauled to the southward ; when he found his mistake, after veering the ship, he
but jjist weathered Barnaby Island. Now, should a ship be running up in thick weather,
and not be certain of her distance, if she should be near Father Point, she cannot approach
the land without gradually shoaling her water, consequently, keeping the lead going, and
being in nine or ten fathoms water, should she make an Island suddenly to the south-
ward, it must be Barnaby Island. And if falling in with an Island suddenly, without hav-
ing hove the lead, in any bearing to t!ie westward of W. S. W. one cast of the lead will
reduce it to a certainty, for from W. S. W. to west, Barnaby will have only from 7 to 6 fa-
thoms, and the Island of Bic will have, in the same bearings, from 15 to 12 fathoms.
Again, if the lead be kept going, and no soundings be found, then, falling in ^7ith land
suddenly a-head, it must be Biquette, for there is deep water in the streamof Biquette, and
when it bears S. W. distant half a mile, there are 60 fathoms water. In the stream of
Biquette, when it bears W. S. W. if you should have ten fathoms water, and see no land,
you must haul off to the northward, or run for Bic, as you think proper; if you are stran-
gers, the safest way will be, to haul off to the northward, keeping in nine or ten fathoms
water, and steer W. S. W. and W. by S. according to the depth of water; that course
will lead to the southward of Bic, and if you get sight of the reef at the East end of the
Island, which is always above water, steer west one mile and a half, or two miles, and an-
chor in 11 or 12 fathoms.
Ships being near Bic Island, in thick weather, should stand off and on to the northward
of the Island, and wait for the weather clearing up.
If desirous of anchoring on the south side of Bic, and the wind should be easterly, run
boldly to the southward, looking out for the reef at the east end of the island, as before
directed ; give this reef a berth of a quarter of a mile, and run along in mid-channel until
you find Cape Arignole bears S. S. E. the body of the island then bearing N. N. W. large
ships may anchor in 13 or 14 fathoms, the ground clear and good ; but small vessels may
run on until the island comes N. E. and the depth 10 fathoms ; you will then be a quarter
1
r
11
! i
78
PLUM' S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
of a mile off thf> island, h't the bottom will not he so clear as when yon are in deeper wa-
ter. Fresh water may be obtained in the Cove to thi westward of tin; island.
But, if the wind should be westerly, and you are to vindward of the island, intending to
anchor there, stand to the southward into 11 fathoms, *hen run down and anchor, as above
directed: for with little wind 11 fathoms is the proper dr|ith of the fair way, and the last
quarter flood, and all the ebb, sets strongly between Hiiniette and Hie.
Should you, with an easterly wind, be too far to the westward to fetch round the east
end of Bic, then, in order to gain the anchoraj;e, you should give Biquctte a berth of about
half a mile, run up until the west end of Bic bears S. E. then Cape Arignole will be open
of it ; this latter mark leads to the westward of a reef, which is covered at a quarter tide,
and extends S. W. by W. one mile from Biquette, while another reef, always visible, lies
between the former and Biquette. By haulina; round to the southward with Cape Arig-
nole open, you will paas athwart the opening between Bic and Bi(|uette, in from IC to 9
fathoms; thence the water will shoalen to 6 fathoms upon a spit of mud and sand, which
lies S. W. by W. from Bic, about one mile long : after you have crossed this spit, you
will have 10 and 12 fathoms, where the passage will be open, and you can anchor. The
N.W. ledge of Bic, the west end of that island, and Cape Arignole, are in a line, bearing
S. E. When you are beating into Bic Harbor from the westward, while standing to the
southward, take care not to shut in Mount Camille with Cape Arignoic; and in standing to
the northward, do not shut in Mount Camille with the Island Bic. In Old Bic 1.' arbor
lives one family, where some provisions may be got occasionally, and about two miles above
the Bay of Ha Ha, or S. W. from Bic, lives another family, which are all the houses be-
tween this and Three Pistoles or Basque Island. Passengers wishing to proceed to Que-
bec by land from Bic, must go to the westernmost houses, and procure a guide to take tlieni
through the woods to the next parish, where horses may be got, or else take the boat op to
Basque Island and land on the main, at Trois Pistoles, which is five leagues from Bic. By
80 doing strangers will know how to proceed, should they wish to leave the ship and go by
land.
The tide^ flow at Bic Island, full and change, till three o'clock, and rise in spring tides,
12 or 14 feet ; neap tides, 7 or 8 feet.
The flood tides never bend to the westward till an hour's flood by the shore, and in neap
tides the floods are very weak, and with fresh westerly winds there is none at all, but in the
spring tides, ships will always find a flood tide from Father Point to Bic Island.
Between Barnaby and Bic Islands there is a bank of soundings, being a continuation of
that which runs from Cape Chat ; at the westerly part, about Barnaby and Bic, it extends
2 leagues from the shore, and has regular somidings upon it; its edge is very steep, for
from 35 fathoms it sinks suddenly into more than twice that depth : but froni 35 fathoms
towards the land it decreases gradually ; vessels may therefore stand to the southward by
the lead, and tack or anchor in any depth of water they think proper; but it will be ad-
vieable to go no nearer the land than 1^ mile, with Bic Island bearing from W. S. W.
to S. W. lest you should shut in the channel to the southward of Bic ; and with a sudden
shift of the wind, should not be i.ble to clear Bic to the northward.
Westward fVom Bic Island, the bank of soundings runs all the way to Bascue Island,
parallel to, and a league distance from the shore : beyond Basque Island it bends nearer to
the land, and continues on to the Apple Islands, at 2 and 2^ miles distance from the main,
flhips may therefore stand to the southward by the lead, or keep on, in the fair way, in not
less than 12 fathoms water.
FROM BIC ISLAND TO GREEN ISLAND.— Vessels having arrived at Bic Isl-
and, without being able to obtain a pilot at Father Point, and finding none to be had at Bic,
may proceed towards Green Island, the latter bearing from the former S. W. by W. dis-
tant nearly 10 leagues: in thi" course you will pass the Razades, Basque, and Apple Isl-
ands, which have been already described, page 70 ; the edge of the bank of soundings con-
tinues all the way steep to, but from 35 fathoms tVie depth decreases gradually towards the
land, and between Bic and Green Island vessels will find anchorage all the way in 14 fa-
thoms, and ships of lesser burthen in 9 fathoms ; between Bic and Basque Island the ground
is all clean, but between Basque and Green Island it is foul : there is shelter for small ves-
sels at the east end of the Razades, and also under the east end of Basque Island in three
fathoms, giving the east end of the reefs, which run off those islands, a berth of a quarter
of a mile : the anchorages are with the body of the islands bearing W. by S. or right
abreast of Basque Island. Here, at Trois Pistoles, fresh water and provisions may be ob-
tained, ;f necessary ; and from hence are regular stages to Quebec. Pilots also reside here,
and at Green Island.
Vessels passing from Bic toward Green Island, wil' keep about a league from shore, and
have 14 and 15 fathoms all the way ; and when up so far as Green Island, sh ild the tide be
done, they may anchor off" the reef in 10 fathom.'^, and in the stream of the ledge, which
runs N. E.by N. from the Lighthouse Point, at a mile distance from the ledge.
I
leagues.
k-N
"are in deeper »a-
iHland.
isliind, intending to
11(1 anchor, as ahove
lir way, and the last
■tch round the east
■ttf a berth of about
ignole will be open
(i at a quarter tide,
always visible, lies
rd with Cape Arig-
te, in from l(] to o
id and sand, which
ssed this spit, you
can anchor. 'JThe
■e in a line, bearing
lile standing to the
; and in standing to
In Old Bic (.arbor
)ut two miles above
all the houses be-
to proceed to Que-
guide to take theni
take the boat -,ip to
nes from Bic. By
the ship and go by
ise in spring tides,
shore, and in nepp
ne at all, but in the
; Island.
' a continuation of
|nd Bic, it extends
is very steep, for
froni .35 fathoms
the southwPYd by
but it will be ad-
g from W. S. W.
and with a sudden
o Bast;ue Island,
it bends nearer to
ce from the main,
le fair way, in not
arrived at i3ic Isl-
to be had at Bic,
. W. by W. dis-
and Apple Isl-
of soundings con-
ually towards the
the way in 14 fa-
[sland the ground
ter for small ves-
xe Island in three
erth of a quarter
by S. or right
sions may be ob-
s also reside here,
from shore, and
lid the tide be
the ledge, which
ledge.
le
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
79
li
The high land of Arignole, kept open to the northward of Basque Island, will lead clear
of the liglithouse ledge ; and with the lighthouse bearing S. W. by S. the ledge will be ex-
actly between the lighthouse and the ship. Vessels may also, in tine weather, stop between
the lighthouse and the west end of (i»-een Island for a tide, in 'iO or M fathoms, close to
the north side of the island, '. '. with a <'resh bree/.e, it will be too near the shore, and the
ground does not hold well. Du ng N. Easterly winds small vessels fre(|uenliy run between
theS. W. Reef and ('acana. ancuoriiig m 4 fathoms; but it will be always more prudent
to bear up for the Brandy Pots, lest you should be c.iught by adverse stormy weather.
Should you therefore have passed (treen Island Lighthouse, and no pilot be obtained, the
weather clear, and the wind fair, steer boldly on S. W. i W. or S. W. by W. 5 leagues, you
will then have White Island W. by S. an'l Hare Island with the Bra n'.y Pots open to the
southward bearing W. S. W. Give the Brandy Potsa b'irth, and rUiionhalfa mile or more
above them, there anchor in from o to 10 tathoms; or should die wind shift to the west-
ward, and your vessels be up to Wiiite Island, the tide being sptut, stand to the southward,
into 9 fathoms, or towards White Island into fi or 7, then anchor, the ground is good.
Vessels coming up the river, and giving the southern shore a wide berth, will necessa-
rily go near Red Island. The body of this island bears from the lighthouse on Gr^en Isl-
and W. N. W. distant 6 miles ; and the eastern point of the dangerous reefs which are at-
tached to it, bears from the same lighthouse N. N. W. : therefore the greatest care must
be taken, especially at night, not to brin^ the light to bear to the eastward of S. by E. until
you are sure you are within .5 miles of it. If witiithe light S. by K.you cannot venture to
enter ae narrows, wait the return of day; and should the wind be scant from the N. W.
yon nay borrow on the south side of the Red Island, by observing these marks — open
White fsland to the northward of Hare Island, and as you draw to th'" westward you may
approach the Mioal of White Island by the le. J, remembering that the ebb tide sets strong
down between White Island and Red Island, and the flood the contrary. \. vessel, in fine
weather, may anchor on the south side of Red Island in IvJ fathoms, at a quarter of a mile's
distance ; but the tides here are strong, and set all round the coi.ijjass.
The soundings befveen Red and Green Islands are irregular; for, at the distance of a
mile from either of them, there ?re 40 fathoms : further off, and towards the middle of the
channel, no bottom is to be found at 70 fathoms ; yet, iluring the ebb tides and the wind
easterly, the water breaks and ripples, but you need apprehend no danger.
In beating up the northern shore from Bic to Green Island, you cannot stand to the north-
ern land by the lead, on account of the great depth of water; but Mille Vache shoal begins
at the little river of Port Neuf, and completely surrounds the whole of the low point that
is to the westward of the houses for three miles. Its southern extremity is distant 1| naile
from the shore, part drying at low water, and steep to.
At Pert Neuf is a trading post, and provisions may be occasionally obtained there. Whan
you have passed Mille Vache Point and Shoal, the land forms a deep bay, but it is shoal
and full of rocks. Two leagues to the westward of the Point are two islets, called the Es-
quamine Isles ; to the eastward of these is Saut au Mouton, a small river, with a handsome
cascade near its entrance : this will always attract notice when passing. Between the Es-
quamine Isles and Saguenay are three small inlets, Bondesire, Little and Great Beagerone.
They are frequented by fishing boats, but unfit for shipping.
Shi " working along the northern shore, between the Esquamine and Red Isiand, should
keep t > 1 good leagues off the land ; the shore is clear and bold, and the floods regular;
but should a vessel be caught to the northward of Red Island by a sudden shift of easterly
wind, and be unable to fetch round the east end of the Island Reefs, she may safely bear
up, and run to the westward, giving Red, White and Hare Islands a berth of full two miles :
and when you have run three leagues above Hare Island, haul to the southward, cross the
English Bank, and enter the South Channel towards Kamaraska.
GREEN ISLAND to ths BRANDY POTS.— From abreast of Green Island to the
Brandy Pots, your course will be from S. W. \ W. to S. W. by W. and the distance 5^
leagues. Between these arc the Percy Rocks, lying near the main and Barret's Ledge, in
the fair way. or middle of the stream : the latter has been already described in p. 70. There is
no channel for shipping between Percy Rocks and the main ; but vessels keeping in about
10 fathoms will go clear to the northward of them. Abreast of these rocks, and between
them and the western end of Green T«land Reef, are 20 fathoms, mid channel. Barrett's
Ledge has a black buoy upon it, lying in 12 feet water : the channel commonly used is to
the northward of the Ledge ; keep the southernmost mountain of Kamaraska in one with
the Saddle of Great Pilgrim, or bring the Islet, lying on the N. E. side of Green Island, to
touch the high land of Cape Arignole ; either of these marks will lead you into the fair
channel, and clear the Ledge to the northward. The telegraph standing on the southern
Brandy Pot will then be seen. There is also a passage to the southward of Barrett's
Ledge, leadmg to the southward of the Middle Ground, and up to the Pilgrims; but the
northern channel is more commonly made use of, and is always to be preferred by large
j.'j.^U-i'wSS^-
i
80
; i
ft
BLU1NT8 AMF.RICAN COAST PILOT.
■hips. In aivanpiiic; towards \V)iite Isliiinl Reef, joii m;»y nafely trust to the lead, but 7
fathoma will be Muiricicntl)' near lor your iiuclmrH^e, aixl it will be udvisabie to ^et into no
leas water before yoit tack, for this in in the t'air way to the lirandy Pots, which are steeii
to, there oein^ II) fathoms close to their southern Hides. The above anchorage, haviti"
St. Andrew's Church open, or between the (treat and Second Pilgrim, is very good, and
so is the anchorage to the westward of the Hraiidy Pots, in from !> to 14 fathoms, this lat-
ter being considered the best sheltered roadstead for easterly winds, except that at Crane
Island, of any in the river.
.When you are to the eastward of White [aland, and crossing towards the South Shore,
your water will gradually deepen to '2H and 30 fathoms, and then shoalen regularly to 10
fatlioms, this iatter depth being abreast of the Percy Rocks. In running from White Isl-
and towards IJarrett's Ledge, the wator will deepen to 16 and 20 fathotns, and then shoal
to 12 fathoms, wliich is an near as you ought to ap|)roach the Ledge; but as you get tu
the southward of it, you will, from \2 fathoms, gradually lesson your depth towards River
du Loup to 5 fathoms, and none i)Ut smdl vessels tnust venture to go nearer. In the fair
way between the Hrandy Pots and the Ledge and Middle (Jround, are 20 fathoms, and as
you get on to the southward, you will cross a flat of (i fathoms, which stretches from the
Pilgrim Islands to Hare Island Spit ; having passed which, you sink into 7, 10, 16, 20, and
30 fathoms; the latter being abreast of Kamaraska Island.
TIDE.S. — PVom the west end of (ireen Island ships will begin to have the advantage of
a regular flood and ebb, the tide running 5 hours up, and 7 down the river, and being so
far as the Brandy Pots, it sets regularly up and down, that is N. K. by E. and S. W. by W.
From the BRANDY POTS to the TRAVERSE and GOOSE ISLAND— The pas-
sage from the Brandy Pots, southward, is between Ilare Island and the Middle Ground; in
order to sail in the deepest water, you should steer from the lirandy Pots S. W. for aboui
half a mile ; then bring the southern mountain of Kamaraska over the midddle of the Second
Pilgrim, and when White Island comes open between Hare Island and the Brandy Pots,
bring it midway, and it will carry you clear between the Knoll and the west end of the
middle in 4 and I^i fathoms water ; and when the west end of Bare Island bears N. W. you
will bc/up to the Knoll or Flat, which runs across from the Pilgrims to Ilare Island Spir.
There is no passage between the Brandy Pots and Hare Island ; and the Gut, or Deep
Wafer Channel, between Hare Island and the Great Shoal or Spit, though nearly a mile
wide, is seldom or ever used.
lb standing from above Brandy Pots, or Hare Island, to the southward, you will have
20 and 18 fathoms water; on the north part of the Middle Ground, 4 fathoms; abreast of
the middle of Hare Island, 20 fathoms ; on the Spit of Hare Island Shoal, only 2 fathoms ;
t(^ the eastward of that, .3^ and 4 fathoms; and between the Middle Ground and the Pil-
grim Islands, 4 and 6 fathoms; and when a ship is in the latter depth, she should tack.
From abreast of the Pilgrims up to the Buoy of the Traverse the course will be S. W. \
W. and the distance 9J leagues. There is no passage for shipping to the southward of
the Pilgrims: the bank between the Pilgrims and Kamaraska is steep ; the mark for tack-
ing is not to shut in the S. W. land with the great island of Kamaraska ; in standing to the
northward you will find 20 fathoms, and you may cross the English Bank in this part in 4
fathoms ; but to the southward and opposite to Kamaraska Islands it deepens to 10 fathoms.
KA.MARASKA ISLANDS, are Grosse or Great Island, Burnt or Telegraph Island,
and Crbw Island ; the two former are steep to, but near Crow Island the bank becomes
shallow ; to the southward of Crow Island is a place where vessels may run on shore with
safety; the mark for going in is to open the church 3 sails' breadths to the west of Crow
Island, and steer in : with spring tides you will have 14 feet, and with neaps 10 ; the ground
being all soft mud. N. 50^ W. with the S. E. end of Crow island in one of Kamaraska
Church, distant from the former about 12 miles, lies Mai Bay. Cape Diable bears from
Crow Island S. W. distant 3 miles, and the easternmost part of the reef runs from it to
within a mile of Crow Island ; therefore vessels from the westward should stretch along this
reef in 6 fathoms water, and then haul in for the Church, agreeable to the mark just given;
there are two openings in the reefs, but strangers must not attempt either.
With easterly winds, ships that have lost their anchors may run for the cove to the south-
ward of Cape Diable, to enter which you should bring the Church and Crow Island in the
direction before stated ; and having got within the reefs, run up westerly, leaving a small
island above the Church on your larboard side, then put the ship on shore in the S. W.
part of the cove, and she will be sate ; but if the wind be westerly, run her aground a little
to the eastward of the Church. There is good riding opposite to Cape Diable, at about a
mile from the shore.
I THE TRAVERSE. — From abreast of Cape Diable, distant 3 miles, your course to the
■narrow channel, now called the Traverse, will be S. W. by W. ; in the sailing on this di-
irection, you will keep the high land of Kamaraska in one with the low point of St. Denis —
(this will lead you direct to the black buuy off St. Roch's Point; and when St. Roch's
to the lead, bii(. 7
table to ju;ct iiun no
ts, which are !»iee|)
anchorage, having
, \a very f^„o^i, and
4 fathoms, this lat-
ncej)! that at Crane
8 the South Shore,
len regularly to 10
ng from White isl-
ms, and then nhual
; but as you get lo
epth towards Kivcr
icarer. In the fair
•20 fathom!), and as
stretches from the
to 7, 10, 16, 20, and
re the advantage of
river, and beini; so
. and S. W. by VV.
LAND— The pas-
Middle Ground; in
its S. W. for aboui
Iddle of the Second
I the Brandy Pots,
le west end of the
id bears N. W. you
» Hare Island Spit.
the Gut, or Deep
lUgh nearly a mile
ard, you will have
lithoins ; abreast of
il, only 2 fathoms ;
•ound and the Fil-
e should tack.
*se will be S. W. \
the southward of
the mark for tack-
in standing to the
ik in this part in 4
)ens to 10 fathoms.
Telegraph Island,
the bank becomes
run on shore with
the west of Crow
IS 10 ; the ground
one of Kamaraska
Diable bears from
ef runs from it to
stretch along this
mark just given;
:r.
cove to the south-
row Island in the
', leaving a small
lore in the S. W.
sr aground a little
liable, at about a
our course to the
sailing on this di-
int of St. Denis —
when St. Roch's
BI.U.NTS .\.MEUI(.\\ C0.\8T IMLOT.
81
Church mines S. K. by S. the road behind the church will be in one with it, so soon »%
yon arrive at the buoy : from hence you will observe to keep the I'oilier Uoisse lsli>ni
jii^t touching till' south point of (ioosc Island, then run .S. W. Iialf or a ijuarter of a
mile lieyoiid the buoy, ai ' haul up lor tlie I'illars, k"e|)ing the Houth side aboard, in
7 fathoms water. Small vessels of 10 I'eet water, may run over the Hank of St. liocli,
to the siiiithward of the buoy, but it nIiomM not be done bcfiiic half flood, and at about
a mile off the buoy, which lies in 2j fathoms. There is a reil buoy now placed on the
Middle Hank, in J^ fithoms also; your passage through the Traverse is between these
two buoys, the direct course, with a (lood tide, being S. S. W. and with an ebb S. W. tho
distance being !j\ leagues.
In running from Cape Diable for ;iie Traverse in thick weathrr, or at night, strike the
liank o(f the Cape in 7 or H fathoms, steer about W. S. W. and it will conduct you to
the buoy ; when you have passed the point, you will deepen your water suddenly, and must
haul to the southward and keep the south side on board. In la'aliiig up, from the (':\\>e
towards the buoys, you should take the English Bank for your guide to tack from, when
standing to the northwaril, and the fiat of St. Anne, when staiuling to the southward, au-
choring on either side, as the wind best suits: the wiMer between them is deep.
ANCHOR AtiKS. — Vessels may anchor all along the Knglish Bank, and upon the
edge of the flat to the southward, in 0 fathoms, letween the I'ilgrims and Kamaraska:
under the Pilgrims, in 3 fathoms, and under the east end of the (ireat Island of Kamaras-
ka, in 9 fathoms; offCape Diable, in 10 fatiioms, and all along the Hat, from the Cape up
to the buoys.
In enterinir the Traversi; with little, wind, you ought to be careful to make proper allow-
ance for the first part of the flood tide, for that sets strongly towards the point of St.
Roch's Bank. In going through, if more than half flood, be guarded against the S. W.
by W. set, and always keep the South Bank on board : but when you have got above the
Pillais, the tide sets fair up the river.
In (jeating into and thruueh this passage, be careful to tack from side to side on the first
shoal cast of the lead, but more particularly so on the edge of the Middle Bank ; go not
nearer to it than 1 0 fathoms water, and olisei : that the ship will go farther over towards the
Middle Bank than towards the Shoals of St. Iloch: and if there be but little wind, be
sure to borrow on the south side of the channel.
Should the flood be done, and your ship in the Narrows, or between the buoys, and any
circumstance make it necessary for you to anchor, do not bring to in the channel, but rtin
below either of the buoys, on whichever side may be most convenient, and come to in?
fathoms. After half ebb, the tides will be found to be more moderate below the buoys than
between them ; and in the deep water they run very strong. Should the wind incline to
the westward, you may am^hor half a mile to the eastward of the red buoy in 6 fathoms,
on clean ground, and moderate tide. With southerly winds, anchor io the southward of
the stream of the black buoy in 7 fathoms. But should a vessel be a mile or more beyond
the buoys, it will be advisable to anchor on the edge of the Southern Bank, in 7 fathoms,
taking care to give her a good scope of cable before the stream becomes strong, for should
your anchor start, you may have to cut from it, as it seldom will take a fresh held, the
ground in every part of the Traverse being hard, foul, and unfit for holding well.
Further on, at or above the Pillars, the tides have less velocity, being seldom mate than
3\ knots an hour; ships therefore will find good riding, with easterly winds, about 2 miles
to the eastward of the South pillar, in 7 fathoms, or to the southward of it, in a similar depth,
on good ground ; between the buoys are l.T fathoms mid channel, in the Traverse 12, 10, and
9 fathoms, and to the southward of the Pillars 8 and 7 fathoms.
From abreast of the South Pillar to Crane Island your course will be nearly S. W. by W.
and the distance 4 leagues. In your progress you will pass Goose Island and Madame
Beaujeu's Bank, both of which have been described in page 73 of this work. Crane Island
is little above Goose Island, to which it is connected by a rocky ledge. The southern side of
this pr.rt of the channel is formed by a muddy flat, with regular soundings as you approach,
and 0 fathoms over it, having good anchorage all the way; but the northern side has the
Rock Avignon and the Goose Island Reef, both of which are dangerous, and must \ f^,
avoided. The mark to clear the Rock Avignon, is the whole of Crane Island open of
the S. W. end of Goose Island : this will lead lo the southward of the former, and along
the outer edge of the latter.
In standing towards Goose Island Reef, do not get into less than 12 fathoms water ; but
when you have got above that reef, you may stand toward Goose Island to 7 fathoms; for
it is bold to, and the soundings are regular: when you have passed the Hospital Rock,
which lies to the eastward of a farm house, and close to the low water mark, vessels may if
necessary be safely run on shore, for the beach is, for 2 miles, all soft mud.
TO CLEAR MADAME BEAUJEU'S BANK, you should keep the southerntnost of
the three mountains, which stand to the southward of Trois Sauiuoa, 00 with the Islet uu
11
I -
h
82
BLI'IVT's AMF:niCA.\ COAST PILOT.
1 I
n
I
which •tandu the Telegraph ; run «>ii in -1 CafhoitiH water, until you ;;«•( M 'PlirronnN ITon»e,
which is at the ea«t end of (,'rane iHlanil, to hear N. W. you will then be cIok*' upon iIih
Bank; then bring the biuUl'oint oCSt. \'allicr two Nails' hreadth open to the ttoiithwanl n|
Che west end of Crane iHJand, and that will carry you in tlie best water; and wlirn you
•re up to Crane Itdand you tuay borrow close to it, lor there are 7 faiiioniH close to the
rocka.
ANCHORAGES.— Ships may anchor all the way •Voni I'illar to the east end of Crane
Island, in 7 fathoms water, the ground ;;oo(l and clean: tlicre also is mood ridinnj ofVilip
body of Crane Island, in If) fatlioms. Mut the best roadstead in the river, with «astcrly
winds, is one mile to the westward of Crane Isi.uid. Vessels Imnnd d(»wn the river, when
advanced so far as the Pillars, if caught by stronjj; easterly winds and bad weather, had
always better run back to this place than ride below it, at the risk of losinj^ their ancliors.
FROM CRANK ISLAND TO POINT ST. VAIJJKK the course wdl be about
W. by S. and the distance about (> leagues; in pnrsuiiin this track, you will have to p;iss
the flat mud bank ort' St. Thcuuas's Church, the \V'>e Kocks, the Helle ( 'basse Islets,
and the small bank off ({rose island. (Kora (les(ri|)tir)n of these dan'^ers set- paj;e 7.5.)
In proceeding from Crane Island, you may keep tiie Island on board, for it is steep to; run
on in from 7 to 10 fathoms, and S. W. by W. distant 'J miles iVfun the southern part of
Crane Island, you will meet with the northern extremity of St. Thomas's Flat, which
runs out a full mile and a half from the main land, and dries at low water; it) rounding
Crane Island, steer W. by S. or stand toward it info 7 and (j fathoms, soft muddy jironnd ;
and when St. Thomas's (Jhurch comes .S. E. you will be abreast of the Point, and Ujay
steer up W. S. W. Having got above this flat, you will be abreast of the Wye Rocks.
THE WYE R0(;KS arc sufficiently distinmiished iti the day-time by a black biiny
placed on their western extremity ; it lies about a(|uarterof a mile from the shore, and has J
feet over its western end, and 10 feet at its eastern part; keep in not less than 7 fatiiotns
water, and you will at all times go clear of it ; the loni; mark from the westward is to keep
Belle Chasse Islands always open to the .southward of Point St. Vallier.
When you have arrived above St. Margaret's Island, yoti should stand to the northward,
but not into less than 6 fathoms, on account of the baiA which runs tromiiroso Island ; nor
go nearer to Rat and Madame Islands than 7 fathoms, for both these latter shallow as you
approach them : the south side of the channel is bold all the way to Belle (.'hasse Islands,
having 8 fathoms near the shore, and 7, 8, <), and 5 fathoms quite across ; the ground clean,
theatream moderate, and the anchorages all along good.
Sbipe being up so far as Belle Chas.se Islands, siiould stand no nearer to them than 8 fa-
thoms; nor to Madame Islands than ti fathoms: the channel here is about tluee miles over.
S. W. by W. 3 miles from the west end of Madame Island, a rocky shoal runs out, which
dries at low water ; come not nearer to it than 10 fathoms water, but always keep some part
of Rat Island open to the southward of Madame Island, and you will be sure to pass to the
southward of the Shoal in safety; and when St. Vallier's Church bears S. S. E. you
will perceive it to be in one with an old windmill ; you will then be to the westward of the
danger, for the western end of the shoal bears from .St. Vallier's Church directly nortii.
Frona Belle Chasse to Point St. Vallier, you will have 8 fathoms all along thf fair way
of the channel ; but having passed St. Vallier's Point, it deepens to 16 and 18 fathoms.
FROM ST. VALLIER TO QUEBEC, the course is W. by S. Westerly, for
about 4 leagues, or up to St. Lawrence's Point in Orlean.s ; both shores being bold to ;
you may therefore borrow on the northern side to 10 fathoms, and on the southern to 8;
while in the middle of the channel there are 16, 18, and 20 fathom.s, all the way to abreast
of the Church of St. Lawrence: vessels may anchor towards the Island of Orleans, in
from 16 to 10 fathoms; but the ground from St. Vallier's Point up to Quebec is not
good for holding.
As you advance towards St. Lawrence Point the channel narrows, being not above l.V
mile across; on the opposite point stands the Church of Beaumont; between this and
the Church of St. Lawrence, bearing from each other S. W. by S. and N. E. by N. is a
large rocky shoal, extending almist half over the channel, and drying at low water; this
is dangerous and steep to, having 14 fathoms close to its edge ; you must therefore be
careful to avoid it, by making short boards, until you are fairly above St, Lawrence's
Point ; then you may safely stand to the southward into 10 fathoms water.
From Point St. Lawrence steer W. by N. towards Point Levy, the distance being 2}
leagues. About 1| mile to the westward of St. Lawrence is St. Patrick's Hole, a road-
stead for vessels bound outward, with easterly winds, but the ground does not hold well:
the river here is one mile and a quarter wide, and ships may tack into 10 fathoms water ;
in the middle of the river are 20 fathoms. In proceeding along the north .shore, you
must give ihe Morandan's Rocks a berth ; they lie about half way between St. Patrick's
Hole and the west end of the Island of Orleans, and have only 10 feet over them; pass
them in 1£ fathoms : there is also a reef stretching from the west end of Orleans, but
come not ii
(n the niiril
rate berth.
Ilavini; :
utiles ; on
cleared by
eastern |)ar
Steeple oft
S. 36^ V.
thedrai. aiu
oues : obse
east end.
English Nif
TIIE I!,
erly wind, s
hoid well ;
the middle
within 2 cal
may e.isily
Un'the Pdii
they will m
tiie best ri
THE li/
ballast in ;
Quebec, an
line, bear a\
The Rivc
is distant 1.5
of llicheliei
surmounted
numerous to
which coinit
single hoiist
From Qu
and become
ceases : hert
yond Trois J
above the Li
St. Pierre, v
nearly 8 in b
divide into s
cleanest, dee
tance, leavin
structed by i
that the utm
proper time
proper oppor
and uniibrmi
Montreal i
and situated
feet water ca
their cargoes
inconvenieu(
current is so
will not be a
spot where t
RE MAR]
ping in the I
per attention
pilot is com
the Harbor .
sides which
Should si
Madame Isl;
will find a gc
shore, the gj
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
83
pr«onN ITon»«,
cloM*' upon iJiH
•• NDiithwanl nt
iiiiH whrn you
iiH close to the
It end (if ('riinf?
I ri(liii(r oO'ilir
r, with oiiNterly
he rivt-r. wlirri
I wfnthiT. hnd
their iiiichoiH.
• Will he nhdiit
ill hiivc lo p:iN.<i
('h;»sse Islets,
I Nff piij;« 75.)
s sic( p to; run
iiUhcni part of
'h Klat, which
•; in rounding
mddy sronnd;
'oiiil, iiiid may
• WvR Rocks.
y a black hiKiy
iiorr, and has '|
hail 7 Cathoiiis
vard is to keep
tiie northward,
He Island ; nor
shallow as you
Mias.se Islands,
ground clean,
hem than 8 fa-
ce miles over,
ms out, which
cep some part
' to pass to the
S. S. E. you
estward of the
Inectly north.
g thf fair way
18 fathoms.
Westerly, for
eing bold to ;
outhern to 8;
vay to abrciist
f Orleans, in
Quebec is not
not above 1 \
veen this and
E. by N. is a
w water; this
therefore be
Lawrence's
mce being 2}
Hole, a road-
lot hold well :
homs water ;
1 shore, you
St. Patrick's
• them ; pass
Orleans, but
tome not into lens than 10 fathouiH and there will be no danger : another Rmall reef run*
to (he niirihward from I'oini Levy, but it lies close in shore, and requires only a mode-
rate berth.
Having arrived at INiint I^evy, steer W. S. W. for (Quebec, the distance being only 2
miles; on the northern side of the passage lie the Heauport Shoals, which are readily
rieareil by coming into U'lt less than 10 fathoms. In the day time the mark for th«
eastern part of these shoals, which have some rocky patches among them, is the small
Steeple of the Roman ('athedral, and I lie Steeple of th<' Knglish Cathedral in one, bearing
S. 36° ''^. ; therefore keep the Miiiall St»eple open to the northward of the English Ca-
thedral, and riinuing up, keep (he above small Siecple midway between the two large
ones : observe the Koman ( 'athedral has two steeples on it, the small one standing at the
east end. and the lartic one at its west end; both <'hitrches are covered with tin: the
English steeple is a spire; the Koinan has two cupolas.
TIH] IJASIN Ol'' (^I'LilHC —Ships arriving at (Quebec, with flood tide and east-
erly wind, should lake in their sails and have their cables ready, for the ground does not
hold well; the tides are cdiiunonly strong, and the water deep : if obliged to come to in
the middle of the stream tliey will have from Hi to 2') fathoms abreast of the iown; but
within '2 cables' lengths of the Wharves, then; will be 11 fathoms, and here the vessel
may easily be brought up; while in the otling it will require 60 fathoms' length of cable.
On the Point Levy side is a depth ol .'JO fathoms, and strong tides; near the Wharvee
they will not be so strongly felt ; but should the wind be violent, and from the eastward,
the best riding will be above the Wharves, abreast ol Diamond Harbor, in 10 fathoms.
THE liALLAS'r (tROL'ND is the place appointed for vessels to discharge their
ballast in; this is to the we tward of two beacons that stand on the south shore, above
Quebec, and are i)lai'cd on the brow of the hill near Charles' Cove, which, when in a
line, bear N. W. and S. K. of each other.
The River St. Lawrence extends iVoiii (Quebec to the City of Montreal, from which it
is distant 1.5r> miles, and from the Island of Ric 'JO leagues; it is navigable to the Rapids
of Richelieu, for vessels of 000 tons; the impediments are few, and those very easily
surmounted. The banks of the river are in a high state of cultivation, and ado/ned with
numerous towns and villages, most of wiiich are built around, and adjacent to •> churchi
which commonly makes a handsome appearance, and is generally a stone edifice; whil«
single houses and farms keep up a rcuular kind of connuunitation.
From Quebec, the shores of which are exceedingly lofty, the hills gradually decline,
and become less elevated, until you reach the River St. iMaurice, where the tide entirely
ceases : here, on the iiortij side of the river, stands the town of the Trois Rivieres. Be-
yond Trois Rivieres, 3.3 miles, is the Jiichelieu Rapid; at the entrance of which, and
above the Lake St. Pierre, is the town of William Henry, formerly called Sorel. Lake
St. Pierre, which is between the two towns, is '22 miles in length, and in some place*
nearly 8 in breadth ; but its western part is encutnbered with numerous islands, which
divide into several channels; two of these arc navigable, but that to the south is the
cleanest, deepest, and best; the banks here are low, and shelve olfto a considerable dis-
tance, leaving only a narrow channel of from 12 to Id feet water: the river here is ob-
structed by masses of rock, and at the ebb-tide the descent of the Rapid becomes .io great,
that the utmost caution must be taken to pass it ; vessels therefore should wail for the
proper lime of tide, and, if necessary, they may anchor at the bottom of the Rapid ti)] a
proper opportunity offers. From hence to Montreal, the banks are of a moderate height,
and uniformly level.
Montreal is considered the most fertile part of Lower Canada : its port is convenient,
and situated on the S. E. side of the city ; the harbor is not large, but vessels drawing 15
feet water can lie close to the shore, near the Market Gate, and both deliver and receive
their cargoes with expedition: the depth is generally from 3 to 4^ fathoms: its greatest
inconvenience arises from the Rapid of St. Mary, which is about a mile below, whose
current is sometimes so powerful, that without the benefit of a N. East wind, vessels
will not be able to stein it, but must be detained for weeks, within two miles only of the
spot where their freight should be delivered.
REMARKS. — The laws of the Trinity House are very strict with respect to ship-
ping in the Harbor and Port of Quebec ; and require the masters of vessels to pay a pro-
per attention to the observance of them. The regulations relative to quarantine, the
pilot is compelled to make them acquainted with, so soon as he comes on board ; and
the Harbor Master will deliver a copy of the Laws of the Harbor on their arrival, be-
sides which the difterent laws are always kept open to view at the Harbor Master's Office.
Should ships have the misfortune to part with their anchors, either above or near
Madame Island, it being high water, and the vessel's draught of water not too great, they
will find a good cove at the west end of Grose Island, where they may safely run her on
shore, the ground being all soft mud. In this cove are 14 feet spring tides, and 9 neap.
i1
'•"^'Mf.y
I
^
n
84
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Should they part neav Crane Island, they may safely run on shore on Goose Island
above the Hospital Rork. '
Should they part in the Traverse, they may run into Kamaraska, observing the marks
given in page 80.
Should they part near the Pilgriins, they may run on shore in safety on the S. W.
part of (irefn Island, near Mr. Frasers House.
Should they be obliged to run for a harbor below Bic Island, old Bic furnishes a pro-
per place to run ashore; and to the southward of Barnaby Island a ship will be equally
safe. ■ Little Mathis Cove is also a good place for a vessel on emergency to take refuge
in : see pnge 77.
As the ice sometimes sets in suddenly, should vessels be caught at that season, all the
places above-mentioned will be proper and sate to winter in ; and also in the space be-
tween Kamaraska and the Pilgrims, but at all times they should be hove up to high-
water mark, spring tides.
Should they be assailed between Kare Island and Kamaraska, with easterly winds and
in a dark night, and being bound up the river, they should run from Kamaraska, and
have a night's drift, vearing a;; required by the lead, always taking the English Bank
for their guide, and when the <lay returns, either anchor or run up, as must convenient.
THE NORTH CHANxN EL"— 'J'his Channel, now very little frequened, was formerly
thfc one most commonly used; its direction was to the southward of the Red Island, or
Hare Island, between the English Bank uid the Northern Mainland; to the northward
of Coudre Island, along the Northern Shore, and through the Old Traverse, which is
between the east end of Orleans Island and the western part of Madame Island. In this
Channel the water is deep, the adjacent lands high, and heavy squalls very frequent, the
tides strong, and that part called the Old Traverse, intricate, narrow and dangerous; be-
sides which, there are tew places fit to anchor in. Mr. Lambly, the Harbor Master of
Quebec, emphatically s;<ys, "he believes few men now living will undertake to carry a
ship through* it; and that he conceives it would be the extreme of folly to attempt to open
the use of it;" and further on he states to have "heard of men who "knew and could do
this, but never saw any of them takt a ship through it ;" and adds, " he is sure they ne-
ver will." Nevertheless, as this channel has hithort ) been described in all nautical pub-
lications of this nature, and as it may be satisfactory to know what has been formerly said
of it, we subjoin the following account :—
It has been already stated that the N. W. Company, trading in furs, <fec. have settle-
ments o' the northern side of the river, at the following places — at the Mingan Islands,
Oodbou River, Jeremy Island, Port Neuf, and Tadusac, where supplies of provisions or
assistance, if required, may be obtained.
From Tadusac, or the River Saguray, a reef extends to the westward, and the whole
of the coast is rocky ; vessels, therefore, must always give it a good berth, and not trust
to the lead ; about 9 leagues from Sagunay is Cape Salmon ; and near 2 leagues beyond
that is Cape Eagle. The channel between Cape Eagle and the English Bank becomes
narrower, and only 4 miles wide. Having rounded Cape Eagle, you will open Mai Bay ;
here arocky reef runs from the eastern point of the entrance and almost blocks the river
up. Ta the southward is Cape (Joose ; the channel here bends to the westward, and is
formed by the N. E. point of the Island of Coudre and the Main, on which latter, to the
N. W. of the island, is Si. Paul's Bay ; this is rocky and shoal, and called by the French
the Whirlpool; in navigating this part, a vessel should borrow on the <" udre Reef as
close as she can, with safety, in order to keej) out of the contrary curient: bring the
North Cape of Coudre Island a cable's length open of Cape Goose, and you will clear
the reef. You will observe these rocks will be completely covered at high water, and
the marks for their extremi'v are St. Paul's Church bearing N. 41° W. Cape Diabje N.
27° W. and the North Blufi' Point of the island S. 22° W'.
In the channel between Coudre Island and the Main, the current is strong, the water
deep and th^ ground bad for anchorage, hi case of necessity you can anchor oft' Cou-
dre, in 17 fathoms, coarse sandy ground, with Cape Goose just oi)en of the land to the
westward of it, bearing E. N. F. i- E- and the cast end of Coudre Island E. S. E. ^ L.
but the tide here is very rapid, ant! a vessel will be apt to swing round. A small hill near
Kamaraska Island, brought between the Island of Coudre and Cape Goose, but rather
nearer to the former than the latter, will lead between the Reef and Whirlpool; then
should the tide drive you towards the Reef, when in 7 fathoms anchor, but if you pass
into 8 fathoms, you will be nearer the Island than the Main, and having passed it, you
will deepen your water to IG and 18 fathoms. A shoal, or ridge of rocks, stretches all
along the northern shore, from St. Paul's Bay to Cape Hog. So soon as you have cleared
the S. E. of Coudre Reef, haul in for the Main, sailing along in 10 and 12 fathoms, or
mid-channel in 15,16, and 18 fathoms, these soundings will diminish as you approach
Burnt Cape Ledge. From Coudre, until the Church of the Little River Settlement
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAf T PILOT.
85
on Goose Island,
erving the marks
ty on the S. W.
: furnishes a pro-
p will be equally
icy to take refuge
fiat season, all the
in the space be-
hove up to high-
asterly winds and
Kamaraska, and
le English Bank
nost convenient,
ned, was formerly
le Ked Island, or
10 the northward
raverse, which is
! Island. In this
cry frequent, the
I dangerous; be-
larbor Master of
crtake to carry a
o attempt to open
lew and could do
; is sure they ne-
all nautical pub-
een formerly said
, Arc. have settle-
Mingan Islands,
s of provisions or
d, and the whole
th, and not trust
! leagues beyond
Bank becomes
open Mai Bay ;
blocks the river
westward, and is
ich latter, to the
(1 by the French
udre Reef as
nent : bring the
d you will clear
high water, and
Cape Diable N.
trong, the water
anchor oft' Cou-
the land to the
E. S. E. i E.
A t.mall hill near
oose, but rather
V'hirlpool; then
but if you pass
^ passed it, you
ks, stretches all
'ou have cleared
12 fathoms, or
you approach
iver Settlement
bears N. N. W. you will have a rocky hottoni, and from thence it becomes tolerably
good. From Coudre anchorage to (Jape Torment, the distance is about o4 miles, the
shore forming 7 capes, each of which appears split at the top, the course being nearly S.
W. In thi.i course you may anchor with Cape Millard beariiig N, W. by N. distant
one mile and a half, in a bottom of sand and mud, with l(i fathoms, or about a mile from
the north shore -n 'J fathoms, Pillar Island being in one with Neptune Rock, Cape (joose
nearly in one with the S. E. part of Coudre, Cape Torment a little open with Burnt
Cape, and the north part of (Joudre N. 36° E. The Neptune Rock lies on the larboard
•lide of I he channel, and is never wholly covered, though in stormy weather the sea breaks
over it; it lies rather more thiui '2 miles from Cape Rouge, and bears from Cape Raveu
S. 35° W. Cape Millard, S. 'J2° W. and Cap. ornieut, N. 65° E. Southward of this
reck is Burnt Cape Ledu*', lying directly opp, ,ie to Burnt Cape; between them is the
Channel, narrowing abreast of the Cape to but little more than half a mile wide, but
with not less than 8,9, and 1(1 fithoms water; keep near the Main and you will sail along
it in safety ; the leading mark is the highest of the broken clilfs, in one with the N. \V.
end of Coudre, and be careful, when t)pposite Burnt Cape, to avoid shutting in the N.
E. end of Madame Island, with tiie S. W. end of Rat Island. The best place of an-
chorage to wait for a wind to pass the Qld Tnwersc, is a quarter of a league from the land,
with Cape Torment bearing nearly W. by .S. in I'J fathoms water.
OLD TRAVERSE. — This is the channel which divides Burnt Cape Ledge and the
shoals adjoining it to tiie southward, from the Island of (Jrleans, and is considered dan-
gerous, therefore it should, if possible, be passed on a clear day. First then, in order to
keep clear of Burnt Cape Ledge, bring a part of the Butt, shut in behind Cape Tor-
ment, until Burnt Cape becomes N. by E. the soundings being irregular, and the edge
of the ledge steep to: being past Burnt Cape, and i' bearing N. N. E. haul over the
Traverse, and observe the following marks: — Or the st-uth shore, considerably inland,
are three mountains, the south-western one being the largest, bring the west end of this
mountain in one with the east end of Rat Island, sail on with them in thisdh-ection until
St. John's Point comes open of Point Dauphin; there is also a little hill to the westward
of the above three mountains, which may always be seen in clear weather, keep this hill
to the westward of Madame Island, until you have opened St. .lohn's Point, as before
mentioned, this is a good mark : having proceeded thus far, steer for St. John's Point,
rather nearing Orleans Island to avoid a small krjll, on which are only 3 fathoms water;
the mark for this knoll is the entrance of St. Ann's River, on with the east point of Or-
leans Island; and when St. John's Point is just opening, you will be in the deepest wa-
ter, and may run along the Island in six and seven fathoms in safety. The passage be-
tween the Middle Shoal and Rat Island should be avoided, but if the mariner has occa-
sion to use it, he will bring the east end of the westernmost of the three mountainv^
before mentioned, in one with the east end of Rat Island, and steer on towards the
Island, until St. John's Church comes open of the Point, you will then be to the south-
ward of the Middle Shoal, and may proceed towards St. John's Point; the channel be-
tween the Middle Sand and that which stretches froui Burnt Cape Ledge, is narrow,
and in crossing the tide, you will not only lose time, but unless attentive to the foregoing
marks, you will be driven out of your way, it therefore in never to be recommended ; the
west end of the middle lies with the west end of the Middle Mount in one »vith the
west end of Rat Island, and as soon as the east end of the same mountain ci'mes on,
you will have passed the Shoal, and will have the channel open to the west end of Rat
Island, you may then anchor between Orleans and Madame Island, or proceed up the
river.
OBSERVATIONS. — At the Isle of Bic the stream never bends to the westward un-
til an hour's flood by the shore. Here the neap floods are very weak ; and with wester-
ly winds, no tide will be perceptible. A spring flood is, however, always found within
four miles of the shore between Father Point and Bic Island. Hence, all the way to
Quebec, the tide, when regular, flows tide and quarter-tide; but it always is influenced
greatly by the wind, and by no means to be depended on, as to its running any where be-
low Hare Island, where there is a regular stream of ebb and flood.
Between Barnaby and Bic the stream of flood sets in from the N. E. at the rate of
about two knots an hour; then fair through the channel until the last quarter flood, when
it sets to the N. W. by the west end of Bic, and then gradually to the N. E. as the flood
slacks. The whole of the ebb, both to the eastward and westward of the island, sets
strongly to the N. E. The current between Biquette and the north coast is generally
very strong to the N. E. without any regular change. In the summer and autumn, as
well as in spring tides, this current slacks, and, near Biquette, runs to the westward dur-
ing flood; but, until the upland waters have all run down, and the great rivers have dis-
charged the freshets, caused by the thawing of the snows in the spring of the year, this
current will always run downward.
■...*»««»*'
86
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
' i
i
.!
*>
From Bic to Green Island, on the soutliern side, the stream of flood is no where per-
ceptible at a mile and a half from tlie islands. The ebb, or rather current, comes strong-
ly from the N. W. out of the River Sagunay. and through the channel to the northward
of Red Island. Here it always runs in a S. E. direction, two miles an hour, with a
westerly wind ; but only to the southward and eastward of Red Island. Between Red
Island and Green Island, the ebb runs from 4 to 6} knots. In crossing over to the north
shore, this easterly current will be found to diminish; for, on the north side, tlie flood
is pretty regular, and the ebb much wealier. Eastward of the Razade Rocks, and near
Bic, the current assumes a N.E. direction, and sets strongly between Bic and Biquette.
To the southward of Bic, spring floods run at the rate of a knot and a half* neaps are not
perceptible. Ships that come to the southward of Bic, with a scant wind from the
northward, should steer VV. by N. to check the S. E. current, until they come into 18
fathoms water, or up to Basque, wlience they may proceed for Green Isl; nd.
The first of the flood, with spring tides, sets Irom the N. E. along the north side of
Green Island, and strongly towards the west end of it; then S. S. W. over the reef to-
wards Cacana. In the middle of the channel no flood is perceptible. At two miles to
the southward of Red Island it sets strongly to the N. W. and the ebb contrary. Dur-
ing spring ebbs, the meeting of the N. E. and S. JC. tides, near the middle of Green Isl-
and, causes very strong ripplings : and, to the eastward of Green Island, the S. E. ebb
comes strongly about the east end of Red Island ; here meeting, the N. E. tide causes
a high rippling, much like broken water in strong easterly wmds ; but, in neap tides, the
floods are very weak, and in the spring of the year there are none; thus rendering this
part of the river more tedious in its navigation than any other, luiless with a free wind.
From the west end of Green Island a regular stream of flood and ebb commences,
which runs five hours upward and seven downward. At the Brandy Pots it flows tide
and quarter tide ; and above the Percy Rocks, on the south shore, it sets regularly up
and down, N. E. by E. and S. W. by W. From the Brandy Pots, the stream of flood
sets towards Hare Island ; "".nd near the west end, N. W. with great 'rength, through the
passage between the islai d and shoal. Above Hare Island the flood sets regularly up
the river. The ebbs contrarywise.
From the Pilgrims np to Cape Diable the flood is very weak, but it thence increases
uptoJthe buoys of the Traverse, where it runs at the rate of 6 knots. The first of the
ebb sets towards the English Bank and Hare Island Shoal, when abreast of the greater
island of Kamaraska, and the ebb contrary. At the Traverse, on the full and change, the
tide on shore flows at half past four, but it continues to run to the westward until 6 o'clock,
when regular in the channel. AV'ith westerly winds there is a deviation, but it is certain
that the tide on shore rises three feet before the stream bends to the westward : and this
allowance must always be made in every part of the river. In the Traverse the first of
the flood sets from the N. N. E. at the buoys, at a quarter flood, it takes a S. W. direc-
tion: and when the shoals are covered at half flood, at the Seal Reefs, it sets until high
water S. W. by W. The ebbs, in a contrary direction, run with great strength ; fre-
quently, in the spring of the year, at the rate of 6 or 7 knots.
From Crane Island the flood sets fairly up the river, but the first of the ebb of L'Islet
sets to the northward for half an hour, then fair down the river, at the rate of not more
than 3j knots an hour with spring tides.
VARIATION OF THE COMPASS.
denly
In the year 1775, variations were given by M. des Barres, as follows: North entrance
of the Gut of Canso 16° 0' W. : Crow Harbor, (Chedebucto Bay) 14° 50' W. : entrance
of Liscomb Harbor, 14°: Sable Island, 13° 57': Halifax lighthouse, 13° 35': entrance
of Shelburn, 13^^ 30': Cape Sablo, 11° 15'.
In 1798, Mr. Backhouse found the variation at Halifax to exceed 16 degrees; an ad-
dition of 2^ degrees to the prece.ling, may therefore give the present variation very near
the truth.' Mr. Lockwood gives the variation at Halifax. 17° 28', and at Cape Sable,
14° 27' : but it seems that the needle is now receding. At St. John's, New Brunswick,
the variation in 1827 was about 16 degrees.
The following was taken in 1831, and sufliciently exact for the purpose of Navigation.
Brandy Pots,
Island of Bic,
Cape Chat,
l6ideg. West.
171
21"
Bay of the Seven Islands,
West end of Anticosti,
East end of do.
23 deg. West.
23 i
24|
BLUNT S AMEUICAIN COAST PILOT.
87
THE &1JLF OF ST. JLAl¥REiVCE.
SHIPS bound for the (liilf of St. Lawrence, after pRssing the Islands of Miquelon
and St. Peter's, will do well by endenvorinir to steer a middle course between Newfound-
land and Breton Island, passing on either side of St. Paul's Island, as best suits their
convenience; but by no means should they run beyond the parallel of 47° 30' N. until
they are assuredly well past Cape Ray, for the harbors on the South Coast of Newfound-
land, to the westward of Fortune Island are full of dangers, and but imperfectly known ;
while the whole shore is frequently enveloped in thick fogs, and the rocks cannot then
be perceived before your vessel has got irrecoverably entangled among them. In this
part also, shifts of wind are common* and it will often happen, that after blowing a gale
from one point of the compass, it will suddenly vary to the opposite point, and continue
equally strong ; thus it has been known, that while one vessel has been lying to, with a
heavy gale, another, not more than 30 leagues distant, has been in another gale equally
heavy, but with the wind in a direct contrary direction ; this has proved fatal to many
ships, particularly in 1782, w hen the Ville de Paris, Centaur, Ramiles, and nearly a whole
fleet of merchantmen were lying to, during a hurricane from the S. E. and by its sud-
denly shifting to the N. W. either were rendered unserviceable or foundered.
The winds within the Gulf are not so liable to such sudden changes as on the outside,
or to the eastward of Breton Island.
Ships navigating the coast of Breton Island, and particularly those who have crossed
the Grand Bank and are steering for the Gulf, should be particulrly careful to make a
proper allowance for a strong current which commonly sets S. by W. and S. S. W. abbtit
three miles an hour, and sometimes four, by which the unwary mariner will be greatly
deceived : for while he is considering himself in a fair way for the entrance of thaGulf,
he will be drifted upon the iron-bound shore, the attendant fogs in summertime conceal-
ing his dangers, until it becomes too late for him to avoid destruction ; to persons who
may unfortunately be driven too near this coast, it may be serviceable to be apprised, that
a settlement is now formed at Ashpee Bay, and good anchorage is to be had behind the
Island, where boats can land, and water and provisions be obtained ; while for the want
of the knowledge of such an establishment, many have been obliged to endure both hun-
ger and fatigue unrelieved.
THE ISLAND OF ST. PAUL, on which there is a fixed light, is not dangerous,
and may easily be discovered, even when the weather is foggy, by keeping a good look
out; the shores of the Island of Breton are high, and although fogs do frequently ob-
sctire the land, yet, by proper attention, it will generally be discovered time enough to
avoid danger. Having entered the Gulf, you will seldom fail to see the Magdalen and
Bird Islands, as you must pass them in your route to the River St. Lawience ; you had
better, particularly in thick weather, go either to the eastward and northward of these,
between them and Newfoundland, or to the -outhward and westward, between them and
Prince Edward's Island; for although, in fine clear weather, there is a good and safe
passage between the Bird and Magdalen Islands, yet when it is dark and foggy, the chan-
nel will not be so easily distinguished, and perhaps might be mistaken and attended with
danger. The wer.ther to the southward of the Magdalens, and between them and Prince
Edward's Island, is generally much dearer than to the northward, therefore the passage
that way is to be preferred, particularly after the early part of the year, for then S. West-
erly winds are most prevalent ; and also, if necessary, clear and good anchorage is to be
had at the S. Eastern part of the Magdalens in Pleasant Bay, very near the shore; this
is a safe place for vessels to ride in, with westerly winds, and greatly moie to be recom-
mended than to ha/.ard the beating about in the Gulf with a foul wind; the passage into
it is safe, and runs in between Amherst and Entry Islands.
THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS are but thinly inhabited by persons employed in the
fisheries; their extent is from E. N. E. toAV. S. W. ; there are no harbors, and you
must give their N. E. extremity a berth of two miles, on account of a reef whijh runs
out from it ; in approaching towards them you must avoid the Pearl's Ledge of only 15
feet water: which lies with the S. Eastern extremities of Entry Island, bearing S. W.
by W. i W, distant 5 miles.
A Rock upon which the ship Brothers struck, lies about 6 or 7 miles from the Dead-
man, bearing nearly E. by N. from it. This has only 3 or 4 fathoms over it, and rests
•"^J
\.*».««i»^''«;'-
88
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I.
i
i' 1
■i
J
i
i
upon the authority of Capt. M'Dougall. Another Rock is said to lie between the Dead-
man and Seal Islands • this is situated in a hne between tlie two, and nearly equi-dintant,
having only 8 feet water over it, and conseriuently very dangerous.
A Shoal with only 18 feet water, and which breaks but in heavy weather, bearing S.
E. I E. by compass, seven miles distant from the east point of the Magdalens, has been
discovered by Capt. Bayfield, R. N.
THE BIRD ISLANDS are small, and not far asunder; they are moderately high,
flat at top, and have a white appearance ; the southern one is the largest, and from its
eastern end a ridge of rocks runs out ; in a passage between them there is also a rocky
ledge.
BRION OR, CROSS ISLAND lies W. by N. distant 4 leagues from the Bird Isl-
ands, and N. J E. about 10^ miles from the N. E. end of the Magdalen Islands, being
five miles long and very narrow ; the depth of water between the Bird Islands and
Brian is from 4 to 14 fathoms, the N. E. end is bold to, and there is no danger in the
"channel ; but off the S. W. end of the Island there is a ledge of rocks, even with the
water's edge; between Brion and the Magdalens are 10, 11, and 12 fathoms. It was
former'}' generally considered that beyond the Magdalen Islands all was deep water, but
Captain Philip Aldridge asserts that a bank lies teethe northward, having the following
soundings upon it. He says that standing in for Brion's Island from the southward, and
steering N. W. from the N. E. end of the Island, when he was 12 miles from iihe sound-
ed, and had 20 fathoms water, fine brown sand with black specks and pieces of broken
shells; that he continued to have the same depth and bottom until he came within two
miles of the Island, when the water shoaled to 17 fathoms, small stones: he continued
the same course until within half a mile of the Island, the depth gradually lessening to
7, 5, and 4 fathoms, then 6 and 7 fathoms, until he opened the northern point of the N.
Eastern Island ; then he deepened to 15, 17, 16. and 18 fathoms, being two miles oft' the
Island, and on a rocky bottom. With the N. E. point of the Island brought S. E. by
S. distant 4 miles, he says yju will have 30 fathoms, fine brown sand, with black specks
and bits of shells, and with the N. F. end of Brion's Island S. S. E. distant 12 miles, 35
fathoms, rocky bottom.
are not
regions
storms,
Labrad
often ar
peraturi
ther, wl
the dazv
and agr
Latitude 47 58 0 N. Longitude 61 20 0 W. 35 fathoms, rocky bottom.
61 30 0 W. 38 ditto, fine brown sand and shells.
61 38 0 W. 43 ditto, stones.
61 48 0 W. 55 ditto, fine brown sand and shells.
61 57 0 W. no ground with 110 fathoms.
- 62 8 0 W. 70 fathoms, light brown sand and stones.
62 19 0 \V. 55 ditto, brown sand.
62 30 0 W. 40 ditto, fine brown sand.
62 42 0 W. 55 ditto, ditto.
— — ^— — 62 52 0 W. 40 ditto, fine brown sand and shells.
48
3
0
48
3
0
48
9
0
48
12
0
48
4
0
48
2
0
47 58
0
47
54
0
47
50
0
The Qaptain further says, that many ships have got, in winter time and long nights, so
far to leeward, that they have been forced through the Strait of Belle Isle; when, had
they IwowD that such a bank of soundings existed, they would have lain to until daylight,
and not have been driven out of their route. In sailing from the Magdalen and Bird Isl-
ands, you will, after you have passed this Bank, drop into deeper water, and lose your
soundings till you get near to Cape Rosier.
Bearings and Distances of the Principal Points and Places,
Cape Ray to the N. side of Bird Islands, N. W. by W. 22 leagues.
Cape Ray to the east point of Anticosti, nearly N. N. W. ^ W. 46^ leagues.
Cape North to the N. E. end of the Magdalen Islands, N. by W. J W. 16 leagues.
Cape North to the Bird Islands, North 18 leagues.
N. E. end of the Magdalen Islands to the Bird Islands, N. E. by E.
East side of St. Paul's Island to the east side of the Bird Islands, N
leagues.
Bird Islands to the eastern end of Brion Island, W. | N. 12 miles.
Bird Islands to Cape Rosier, N. W. | W. 47 leagues.
Cape Rosier to the S. W. point of Anticosti, N. E. J E. 13 leagues.
Cape Rosier to the west end of Anticosti, N. i E. 20 leagues.
In crossing the Gulf of St. Lawrence, even during the summer months, islands of i''''
have frequently been met with. The ice that drifts out of the river all disappears by the
latter end of May, but these masses make no part of t. Toe conjecture t"., that they
'; E. 6 leagues,
"by W. i W. 18
vvnen the Dead-
ly equi-distant,
her, bearing S.
lalens, has been
oderately high,
it, and from its
is also a rocky
n the Bird Lsl-
1 Islands, being
rd Islands and
0 danger in the
, even with the
thorns. It was
deep water, but
; the following
southward, and
om iihe sound-
eces of broken
ame within two
i: he continued
illy lessening to
point of the N.
vo miles oft" the
ought S. E. by
th black specks
ant 12 miles, 35
ind shells.
md shells.
ns.
nd and stones.
ind shells.
long nights, so
lie ; when, had
until daylight,
n and Bird Isl-
and lose your
ues.
6 leagues.
*!,. G leagues.
W. i W. 18
islands of i'*'"
ippears by the
ii, that they
IILUNT S AMERICAN COA.ST I'lLOT.
89
are not formed on any of the neighboring coasts, but descend from the more northerly
regions of Uavis's Strait, Arc. where, it is presumed, they ;.re severed by the violence of
storms, from the vast accumulations of the arctic winter; and, passing near the coast of
Labrador, are drawn by the in-draught of the current into the Strait of Belle Isle. They
often are a hundred feet in height, with a circumference of uiany thousands; the tem-
perature of the atmosphere is very sensibly affected by them, which, even in foggy wea-
ther, when they are not visible, sufficienfly indicates tlieir neighborhood : by day, from
the dazzling reflection of the sun's rays ; also by moon-light, their appearance is brilUant
and agreeable.
FROM GASPE'
BAY TO ST. (4K0RGE'S BAY, OR THE DISTRICT OP
GASPE' TO BRETOiN ISLAND.
GASPE' BAY, &c. — Cape Gaspe lies at the distance of 6 miles to the southward of
Cape Rosier ; and Point Peter, or Flat Point, lies 6 miles to the S. by W. ^ W. of Cape
Gaspe. At the distance of about .5 miles S. S. E. from Cape Gaspe, is a small (ishing-
bank, with 15 fathoms over it, sometimes called the Norwich Bank, around which there
is, at a short distance, a depth of 58 and 60 fathoms.
The Entrance of (iaspe Bay is formed by Cape Gaspe and Point Peter. In this bay,
at the distance of 11 miles N. N. W. from the entrance, within a point on the southern
side, near its head, there is an excellent anchorage in from 9 to 12 fathoms water, shel-
tered from all winds. Here the river divides, one branch running N. \V. by N. the other,
or S. W. branch, West, and S. Westerly. There is, also, good anchor;>ge, with westerly
winds, off Louisa's Cove, on the western side of the bay, at about (j miles N. W. by W.
from Cape (Jaspe, in 9 or 10 fathoms. Throughout the bay there is deep water; nearly
50 to 40 fathoms in the middle, and 20 very near the shore on the eastern side : on the
western side it shoalens more gradually towards the coast. The shores of the bay are
elevated, and the settlers upon them nearly all iishermen. The tide flows until 3 o'clock,
on the full and change.
DOUGLASS TOWN is at the entrance of the River St. John, on the south-west
side of the bay. On the opposite shore of the same river is the site of the town of Hal-
dimand.
From Point Peter, off which there is a little islet, called Hat Island, the bearing and
distance to Bonaventure Island are S. by W. \ W. 6 miles. Between lies the bay called
Mai Bay, or Cod Bay, which is nearly 5 miles in width.
MAL BAY. — Very near the sourhern point of Mai Bay is Percee, a remarkable rock,
rising about 200 teet out of the water, anil of about 1200 feet in length, in which there
are three arches, completely wrought by nature ; the central one is sufficiently large to
admit a boat under sail to pass through it with ease. From this rock, along Mai Bay, to
Point Peter, there is an excellent beach for fishing, part of which is named La Belle
Anse or Lobster Beach : close to this place is the house of the late Governor Cox. The
village called Percee, is situated on the rising ground that forms the southern point of
Mai Bay, inhabited, principally, by fishermen. In front of it the beach is convenient for
the curing offish, and off it are some of tlie best bauks for catching them. The Isle of
Bonaventure lies at about a mile and a quarter from the shore opposite to the point; it
is little better than a barren rock, but yet a few persons are hardy enough to winterthere,
for the sake of retaming possession of the fishing places they have occupied during the
summer. There is a passage between the Island and the shore with 16 fathoms water.
The bearing and distance from Bonaventure to Cape Despair are S. W. by W. Smiles,
and thence to the north end of Miscou Island S. \V. | S. 26 miles. Nearly S. S. E. -
miles from Cape Despair, lies the Leander Rock, over which is a depth of 16 or 18 feet
water. As this rock lies in the fair way of ships coming from the northward, with north-
erly winds, for Chaleur Bay, it should be avoided by giving the Cape a berth of 3 miles.
The bearing and distance from Cape Despair to Point Maquereau or Mackarel Fc' /:
are W. S. \V. | W. about 7 leagues. Between these points lie the two coves caijed
Pabos and Petit Pabos, or Pabou and Little Pabou.
On the western side of the entrance of Pabou Harbor is a small village ; and on the
opposite side, on a projecting point, stand the summer habitations of the fishermen.
Several streams descend into this harbor from a numerous chain of small lakes to the
north-westward. Next to the westward of Pabou is the township and inlet of Port
Daniel, where vessels may find convenient shelter during the westerly and N. W. winds.
CHALEUR BAY. — Point Macquereau and Miscou Island form the entrance of
Chaleur Bay, and bear from each other S. J E. and N. j W. distant 4i leagues. From
the entrance of Chaleur Bay to that of Ristigouche Harbor, which is at its head, the
distance, on a west and N- W. by W. course, is 22 leagues. The bay is of moderate
12
90
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
depth near the shore on both .»ides, and has, towards the middle, from 45 to 20 fnthonni
water.
Nouvelle Harbor lies about 14 miles W. by S. from Point Macquereau, wherp are a
church -and several houses.
NEW CARLLSLK. — The town of New Carlisle, the principal town of Chalet) Baj,
is situate in Coxe 'I.)wiishii», on the North shore, us shown in ihe Chart.
BONAVENTURK. — In the adjoininsr township of Hamilton, on the west, is the vil-
lage of Bonaventure, containiiii; a church and several houses, sti-nding on I'-vel nrround.
From Bonaventure the land turns N. VV. by N. towards Ca.'.cape(ua B^v, aion^ ai«
iron bound shore, and having several rivulets of fresh water ; within this Bay is ancJjor-
age in 4, 5, and 6 fathoms water ; this is in the township of Maria ; the head of the Bay
is sho-il, into which the (Jreat t'ascajjedia River empties itself.
In RlSTKiUUCHE HARBOR, at the head of Chaleur Bay, there is good anchor-
age in from H to Iv* fathoms, land-locked from all winds; but it is so difficult of access,
that it should 'lot be attempted without a pilot. The tide flows here, on full and change,
until 3 o'clock, and its vertical rise is 6.i or 7 feet.
NIPISI. '^ IT— Vessels bound into Chaleur Bay should make for the Island of Mis
ecu, which ti. -y can round by the lead, for it shoaiens gradually from liO to .'< fathoms
tli^ latter depth being near Miscou Point , should it be Ibggy, which in summer time is
frequently the case, it will be advisable to steer from thence towards the northern shore,
when you will most probably fall in with Nouvelle Harbor; here stands a church, upon
}li;l some rising ground to the northward of the town or village, which is built alotg the
beach and lies low. Proceeding up the Bay of Chaleur from hence, you will pass round
a low ])oiiit and reach Carlisle; this is somewhat similar to Nouvelle, for the town stands
on a low point and has a church above it; both are near the beach. Having got abreast
of Carlisle, if you are bound across forNipisighit Koads or tM. Peter's, then, by keeping
on the norlherii shore as thus dirt cted, you will readily know how far you have pro-
ceeded up the hay, and may then haul across, with greater certainty, for the land, be-
tween Caraquet Point and Ci\])e Idas, which you may approacli to by your lead without
the least .danger; the land on the northern shores of Chaleur Bay is in a high state of
cultivation, when compared with the southern shores, and this, perhaps, is the principal
cause why the fogs that obscure it are less heavy on 'he former than on the latter.
From Cape Idas to Nipisighit Roads, the shore is clear of all danger, and wlien the wea-
ther is dark or foggy, you m;iy safely run along the land by your lead, only observing to
come no nearer than 5 fathoms water, for in that depth you will he only three miles off
the land. From abrea't of Cape Idas, steer W. by S. about 9 miles; you will have
from 5 to 7 fathoms all tue way, clear of all danger, and get good anchorage : in opening
the bay, you ".vill see Mr. Miller's house and store standing on Carron Point on the lar-
board liand, and appearing like an island ; there is a large grove of trees to the southward
of the house ; and the open space between that and Mr. Sutherland's gives it that ap-
pearance : steer for the house and store on Carron Point until you get about 4 miles dis-
tant from it, t? in bring Mr. Miller's house on Carron Point to bear S. W. and anchor in
from 7 to 5 fathoms, where you may heave your ballast ; here a pMot will board you, but
should no one come, and ;rOu are inclined to enter the river, your vessel having but a
small draught of water, then the following directions by Captain Ai<lridge, will prove ac-
ceptrible, and lead you over both bars ; and when you get inside of them you will find
good anchorage to the northward of Carron Point in 3 and 4 fathoms, good ground.
Bring Mr. Miller's house half a handspike's length of Indian Island; this has a round
tuft of trees on it, and will lead you in mid-channel clear of all danger: when you arrive
abreast of Carter's Point, you should open the upper part of Lathwocd House ; steer in
that direction close to the beach, until you open the beach of Carron Point with Mr.
Miller's house, then run a little further ui) and anchorin 12orl4 feet water, sandy ground ;
from Carron Point to Munro's Wharf there are three bars, with not more than 6 feet
over them, but there are places between them, with 16, 15, and 14^'leet, where a number
of vessels load.
The Tatigouche or Little River is only navigable by canoes ; the middle river is
deep, but bars run across the channel in many places: the banks on each side, from the
village to Carron Point, dry at low water.
TIDES. — It flows full and change at three o'clock, and the water rises on the inner
brir 8 feet, on the outer bar 6 feet, and in the harbor 8 feet, with regular .springs, but it is
much influenced by the winds which prevail in the Gulf of St. Lawrence ; in summer
time no vessel should load down to more thaii 13 feet, and then the bar should be at-
tempted with the first of the springs.
From abreast of the north point of Miscou Island to the south point of Shippigan
Island the distance is 19 miles, and the course is nearly S. W. by S. From the south
point of Shippigan to Tracadie, the course and distance are S. W. ^ S. 4 leagues. From
Traca
ramie I
Ml
the no
and th
gowacl
Fox Is
and pa
and, ai
ail vane
southe
board
so a re<
this pa
Buoy <
BI.UIVT a AMERICAN COAST PH-OT.
91
5 to 20 fathoms
u, wherp are a
[)f Chaleni Baj,
Tracailie to Point Esquiininac or Escnininiic on the south side of the entrance of Mi-
ramichi Kay, the course is S. by W. k W. distance !) loa^au-s.
MIR/. M1CH[ JJ VY". — Th' • is a spacious hay, having at its entrance several islands:
the northe.-n sluire is (routed by some small san(l islands, having; channels between tlicin
and the ii*.iin, into which boats may enter; behind these is an Indian villaj^e called Ne-
gowack, but the chief passage int(» the harbor, is between Walthaui or Portaije Island and
Fox Island: to enter this you nnist borrow towards the southern point ol' lOscuminac,
and pass to the southward of a lont; narrow shoal which stretches in front of Fox's Isl-
and, and fornjii che channel of 1| mile wide, with 4 and 5 fathoms water in it; having
advanced to the northwaril of Fox Island you must turn westerly, niul pass between the
southern point of WnUham i-land and the northern point of Fox Island : on your star-
board hand lie 3 black buoys, wiiich mark the edge of the Horseshoe Sand ; tliere is al-
so a red buoy on the larboard side of the western part of the Hay de Vin Island : through
this part of the channel you will have :Vy fathoms, and having arrived abreast of the Ked
Buoy de Vin, you may ..teer VV. N. W. for Oak Point, in :i, ;'}, and 4 fathoms; here the
greatest care must be o!)served, in order to take the passage between t^heldrake Island
and the Sandy Spit which runs olf Point Cheval ; run very near the N. E. point of that
island, steer S. Westerly for iNappan Bay, and round the south part of Sheldrake Isl-
and, you will then see Old C'ustoni House situated upon tlie northern shore ; from whence,
by keeping mid-channel, and following the sinuosities of the river, you will safely pass
Middle Island, and have 7 and 6 fathoms wj\hout any danger, until you reach the Town
of Newcastle, here the water lessens to 3 fathoms ; ahead you will perceive Beaubac or
Frazier's Island, dividing the channel in two passages, that to the S. Eastward is the bet-
ter one, and runs into the S. W. brantdi of the river; that to the northward leads into
the N. W. branch, both these have their rise a considerable distance up the country.
The New Custom House stands on the southern shore, about '2 miles beyond Middle
Island : there are several places of good anchorage about this harbor, but the navigation
is in general so intricate that a Pilot will always be necessary and he will point out the
best places for riding. Spring tides rise 5 and 6 feet, and the l)Uoys are fiequenUy shifted.
There is good anchorage with olf-shore winds in Outer Bay, but you nmst not go
into less than 7 fathoms water. The Pilots' houses are 4 or 5 miles to the westward of
Escuminac Point, an. '^ilots for this place are sometimes obtaiiuMl from the Gut of Can-
so. Considerable quantities of timber have recently been shipped from this harbor for
Europe, but a late tremendous and extensive fire having made great devastation in the
adjacent woods, destroying the dwellings and property of most of the inhabitants, and
reducing them to the greatest distress, it will take some considerable time before they
can recover their losses, or resume their former occupations.
From the northern part of Miscou Island to Escuminac Point, the soundings are regu-
lar; and, in thick weather, the shore may be approached by the lead to the depth of 13
or 1(T fafhoms. In passing Escuminac Point you must give it a good berth, for a sandy
spit runs otf it a full league.
RICHIBUC TO. — The depth of water at the entrance of this harbor is, at the best
and highest tides, about 18 feet, and with common tides Ifil feet. When you are off the
harbor's mouth, in 6, 7, or 8 fathoms water, you should endeavor to steer in, bringing the
two large beacons in a line, and keeping them so, until you get up near to the Sand Hitf;
then run along the shore about N. W. in 3 or 2\- fathoms, until you find yourself in safe-
ty. There is a large buoy, laid down in .5 fathoms, outside of the bar, which is a good
guidance in. and may be seen, as you approach, for upwards of a league off.
Within Cape Tormentin is the isthmus and boundary between New Brunswick and
Nova Scotia, the narrowest part of which, from the Bay Verte to Cumberland Basin, at
the head of Chignecto Bay, is only 15 miles in breadth.
THE NORTHERN COASTS OF NOVA SCOTIA, &c.— The general features
of the Northern Coast of Nova Scotia are pleasing : the land low and even, or slightly
broken by agreeable inequalities. The few Harbors are of a very limited capacity ; the
soil of the country is fertile, and the woods abound with Beach, Oak, Elm, Birch, Ma-
ple, Ash, Pine, Spruce, Larch, Juniper, Hemlock, and Fir. In the Strait of Northum-
berland, to an extent, from end to end, of not less than 100 miles, the bottom, in many
places is nearly level, and varies in its depth only from 20 to 10 fathoms; being, general-
ly, a stiff clay, and the ground holding well.
Between Cocagne, on the west, and the high rock called the Barn, on the east, the
shore is, in general, bound with red clilfs, and beaches under them, and the island which
lies between Tatmagouche and the basin of Cobequid, appears remarkably high to ves-
sels in the oDing.
Having rounded Cape Tormentin, either inside or outside of the 6 feet ledge which
lies off it, you will open to the westward the Bay Verte.
92
BLLNt's AMEKICA.N coast I'lk.OT.
THE BAY VERTE is wide at its entiancf, and narrows n» vou ndvHnrc, the Blioren
are lined with flats, on whicli tiie water btconu-.x shallow, but Miid-( hannci the anrhpT-
ages are good; here v sri'Im of considerabh; Imrthen may take in their cargoes of tim
ber, 6cc. On the northern side of the Bay, and near its head, is the small River of Gas
pereau, on the southern sl)or(! of which stands the Fort Monckton, and on the southern
part of tiie Bay is another small rivulet called the River Tidnish, they are both too shal-
low for shipping .o enter. The Bay of Verte is now risinj; into considerable inipoilanee,
in consequence of its ijroxiniity to the Bay of Fniidy, and the interior from the Bay to
Amherst, Cumberland, Li> I'lance, and Tanlamaree is in a highly improving state and
increasing population.
RIVER PHILIP.— To the southward of Cape Tormentin, at the distance of 41
leagues, is the entrance to the River JMiilip, a bar harbor, having only 10 feet at the en-
• trance. In advancing towards this place, when in the depth of 5 fathoms, another har-
bor will be seen on the eastern or larboard side, which is called Pogwash. In the lat-
ter* ships drawing 17 feet load with timber. This harbor is safe ; but the entrance is so
narrow as to require a pilot. Ships cummonly anchor outside in 5 fathoms, at 3 miles
distance from shore, with the entiancc bearing to the .S. K.
E. N. E. ^ E. about 8 miles from the entrance to the Bay of Pogwash is the Cliff"
Cape, and from Cape Tormentin to Cliff Cajje the bearing and distance are S. by E. J
E. 16 mih" ; from Cliff Cape to tShoal Point S. E. 3 miles: and from Shoal Point to
Cape John S. E. by E. 11 miles. Between the two latter lie the harbors of Ramsheg
and Tatmagouche, which are good and well sheltered, but each requi/e a pilot.
RAMSHEG HARBOR.— Off the northern or Shoal Point is Fox Island, the flats
from which extend so far from shore, at the entrance of the harbor, as to leave but a
narrow channel, through which, at all times, excepting at slack water, the tide runs with
great velocity, and renders the navigation into it very unsafe, although the depth up to
the anchorage is sufficient for a frigate ; there being, in mid-channel, 3| fathoms at low
water. In sailing in, steer south-westerly, towards Gravois Clit!', giving Shoal Point a
berth of a mile, until the N. \V. arm is well open ; then steer for the latter, keeping your
lead going, until the beach to the N. W. of Gravois CUfi' bears S. W. by W.
TATMAGOQCHE is 6k miles to the westward of Fox Island, and the channel on
the western side of Amet Isle is quite clear ; but, in sailing in from the eastward, between
Cape John and the isle, you should keep nearest to the Cape, for a ledge extends from
the isle to a considerable distance. Amet is a low island, without trees, and it will be
most prudent to keep at least three-quarters of a mile from it every way. The best an-
chorage for ships is in the Harbor or River John, on the ea'^t side of the Harbor, in 4 or
5 fathoms, muddy bottom. Small vessels may run up to Tatmagouche, and anchor ofT
the town in 10 or 12 feet at low water. Here the tide rises 5 feet, on full and change, ai:d
flows till 7 o'clock.
RIV^R JOHN. — In coming from the eastward, when between Amet Island and Cape
Joho, your course towards River John will be W. by S. In passing between the Island
and Cape, you will have 4^ fathoms until you open the River John, on the larb jard side.
You will then have 7, 8, and 9, fathoms ; and if bound for this river, or for Tatmagouche,
may obtain a pilot, by making the usual signal. There is safe anchorage at 2 miles dis-
tance from shore.
In Ramsheg, Tatmagouche, and John Harbors, ships of fifteen feet draught common-
ly load with timber.
CARIBOU HARBOR. — From Cape John to Caribou Point the course and distance
are E. S. E. 6 leagues. Here the water gradually shoalens to the shore, from the depth
of 8 or 9 fathoms at two miles off. To strangers it may be dangerous to approach Cari-
bou Harbor, as it has frequently been mistaken for Pictou, which lies to the south-west-
ward, and some have run on shore before the error has been discovered. For it is to be
observed that ships are seen riciing, not in the entrance of thv harbor, but within a sand
bank, which stretches from side to side, having not more than 3 or 4 feet over it, and
which appears like a good channel. Small vessels load with timber here. The pro-
montory of Caribou may be known from Pictou by observing that the hollrw laud over
it appears like a deep inlet; but the highlands of Pictou seem to fold over each other,
and blind the entrance. The ledges about Caribou extend upwards of a mile fr m
shore, and some of them are dry at low water. Nearly in mid-channel, to the northward
of Caribou Point, is a rocky shoal of 10 feet. It is a quarter of a mile in circumfer-
ence, and around it the depths are 4, 5, and 6 fathoms* The tides, both ebb and flood,
set rapidly over it.
SUNKEN ROCK. — Between Pictou Island and Caribou Point, is a sunken rock.
The rock lies in the fair way between Pictou ^sland and Caribou Point, being distant
about one-third the breadth of the channel, in a W. by N. direction from the western
point of the island. The circumference ol' the rock is about 400 yards, and the tide
BLU>T S AMEKICA.N COAST PILOT.
93
iffht conimon-
wa» found to set ovrr it iit the raff of v?'i nii'cs ]>er hour, tin- (lood settin<» to the N. N.
W. making \uii\i water at full and clianu;*' at ' h. liOin. ( )i> ttM \vest«'rn c'(lj;f , the rock han
4 9nd 5 fathoms close to it, and 5 to 7 fathoms on its eastern edi^e. The position of thi»
rock renders it extremely dan;j;erous to ships ieavini; Pictou llarl)or ior the westward,
as it lies immediately in the fair way. The chaniit 1 to the westward of the shoal is gene-
rally adopted, in which there is from :{', to 4 fatlmms irregular soundings.
PICTOU. — The Harbor or Kiver of I'ictou has a har across its enlranee, liaving over
it only 15 feet at low water; and x^ithont this is a shoal, called the Middle (iround, hav-
ing tl»' smaller depth ot 7 feet. The entrance, on the south side of whicJi there is a fixed
light 54 feat high, lies S. W. 1 S. 5 miles from the west end of I'ictou Island.
In approaching Pictou from the westward, hetwecn the island and the main, tjie light
will not be seen until it bears W. by S. and may be run tor when it bears west.
In approaching from the eastward, (^ipe George bearing S. one mile distant, the '
course is W. b-' S. ; but after making the light it ought to be brought to bear W. or W.
J^ N. when the light may be run for, and will serve for a leading mark over the bar, and
may be approached within two and a half cal)les' lengths, where there is good anchor-
age, or haul up W. N W. until abreast of the light, or until it bears VV. S. W. when
the course up the harbor is west.
The windmill near the town, lii a line with the beach that forms the left or south side
of the entrance, is the mark to r' nr the Middle (iround, and for the deepest water.
Within the bar and the beach the v .ttei il^epens to ,'j, (>, and 7 fathoms, muddy bottom.
This depth continues up to the town, opposite to which a mud flat extends outward so
far as to leave the channel midway between tlie two shores. Above the town the river
divides into three branches; of these, tlie eastern one is winding, but navigable to ves-
sels drawing 1^ feet, about 4 miles upward ; at which distance the river becomes im-
peded by a bar, although above that the water increases. At 9 miles above the town of
Pictou are the well-known coal-pit.«, the produce of which is brought down to the bar in
large f\&l boats. The Middle and Wt.-tt Rivers are navigable upward to a considerable
distance. The lands hereabout being good, the population is rapidly increasing. The
town of Walrnsly, on the north side of the harbor, is the residence of the principu! mer-
chants who loiid timber in these parts.
MERIGOMiSH, which is an excellent bar-harbor, lies 7 miles to the E. S. E. of the
ei trance of Pictou; the merchants of which place have ponds here, for the reception of
tin'ber, with which a number of ships are annually laden. To sail in for this place, britig
the east end of Picfou Island nearly North, and keep it so until ofl'the harbor's month,
where you may either obtain a pilot, or anchor in 4 fathoms. A stranger should not ven-
ture to enter the harbor without a pilot, as a ledge stretclies ofl'from either side. There
is a depth of 14 feet on the bar at low water, and the vertical rise of tide is about 8 feet.
The depth within is from 4 to 7 fathoms, sot^t mud.
PICTOU ISLAND, which liba ofl'the entrance of Pictou and Merigomish, is culti-
vated, and contains about 3000 acres. Fine quarries of free stone have been opened li<5r6,
and strong traces of coal are visible in several places about the cliffs. From the east end
a spit of rocks extends about half a mile ; and al the E. N. E. from it, one league and a
half, is a shoal of 21 feet. Between the island and Merigomish the bottom is muddy, abd
the depth from 1 1 to 7 fathoms.
There is no harbor between Merigomish and Cape St. George ; but the coast is clear
high, and bold, and vessels may .--il along it in safety, at the distance of a mile. Asa
place . f refuge for small vess'^i.* in distress, there is a new pier erected on the coast, 7
leagues to the eastward of Pit,.. . , and at the indent formed by the rock called the Bam.
Cape St. George is a promontory which runs out to the N. Eastward; it is bold to, and
considerably elevated, forming the western point of entrance to St. George's Bay, but
there is said to be good anchorage under the Cape, in from 10 to 7 fathoms ; the ground
is somewhat rocky, but you will ride there sheltered from westerly winds.
ST. GEORGE'S BAY, ANTIGONISH.— The entrance of the Harbor of Antigo-
nish lies 10 miles to the S. by W. from Cape St. George. Here small vessels load with
timber and gypsum, or plaster, of which there is abundance in the neighborhood ; but
the harbor is so shoal, that even these complete their cargoes outside of the bay, although
the anchorage is not so safe.
At Pomket Harbor, 6 miles eastward from Antigonish, ships of any size may load in
safety. In sailing in, when from the northward, you will leave the island on the starboard
side, keeping close to a rock, which appears 5 or 6 feet above water. This rock is steep
to, and lies off the east end of the island. Outside of it, at the distance of three quarters
of a mile, lie several sunken ledges, which are dangerous. After passing the rock a bay,
will open on the starboard side, which you must stand into, till you are shut in with the
island, where there is anchorage in 3^ fathoms water, at about half a mile from the island.
I
ll
I
94
JILUM" S AMERICAN COAST IMI.OT.
ARIHISMKK, or ACIU'SHKK, \h mh inl.'t wliich lirs Mwci-n Cape .lark and the
(lUt I..' ('iiii>^<i, (nulling ii >■ i\;\\\ liiiiliiir, (Mriipicd liy iin iii'lnstridiiN iind tliriving |>«-(i|i|(<.
Hpre a iiimil)»'r »iC smiill ^cMsrln liavc Ucvu liiiilt, tiirrvitin (nun 15 to 50 tons. A rocky
ledgi^ cxtfMuls outMidi' the hiirlior, in a north-wchrrly dirccfioei.
TIIH (ilJT OF CANSO TO li'HAHITANT BAY.
REMARK.S.— Tlir (Jut of Canso is (ormetl t)y the Island of Hrcton on one nide, and
by the hind of Nova Scotia on tlie other. Its length is ahimt 5 leagueH, and breadth
more than three (piarters of a niih'. 'I'he ea.>t ';i.ie is h)w, with beadies, but the west
shore is for the most part hJL'h and rocky ; ('!•• "orcupine heinj; remarkably so. The
deepest water is on the western shore ; bn ores are bold to and sonnd, exreptini;
some sunken rocks, one of which lies nei>. a . ..ole's length from the eastern shore, and
about midway betwej^n the soulhern entrance of tlie (»iit and Ship Harbor; a second is
between Shin HaiSorand Bear's Head, runnin<{ out nearly a cable's jenjjth from shore;
and a third lies ol) Mear's island, aboiu 100 fathoms from the land ; the deptli of water
over tliese rocks is about t) or H feet. Mill Creek. Oypsum or Plaster Cove, V^enus
Creek, Ship Harbor, Holland Cove or Pilot Harbor, and Kddy Cove, alford excellent
anchorajTfs, with a moderate depth, and out of the stream of the tide, wliich generally
sets in from the southward, but is very irrejjular, heim; much influenced by the winds.
After stront; N. W. winds, which happen daily diirinu the fall of the year, the water in
the Gulf of St. Lawrence is rendered low, which causes the currt iit to run northward
through the Out, at tht rate of 4 or 5 knots, and the contrary happens after southerly
winds.
When off Cape (Janso and bound for the Ctulf of St. Lawrence, the best passage is
through the (tuI of Canso, being shorter, anrl having the advantage of several anchoring
plpces, out of the strength of the tide, in case of contrary wimls or bad weather.
CAPE ST. CiKORGE, as before observed, is a remarkable promontory, lying at the
distance of lOV leagues to the eastward of Pictou Harbor; a course of 6 leagues, thence
to the houth-eastward, will lead to the entrance of the Out, whence you may run along
the Breton shore. It is to be oiiserved tliat there is a ledge of rocks, in the offing, near
Aubushee, already notice<l ; some of these are nearly dry at low water, and nearly in the
direct course for the (rut ; they must, of course, be carefully avoided.
Opposite Mill Creek', at the upper end of the (lUt, on the Nova Scotia side, you may
stop a tide or lie wind-bound, if it does not overblow. Keep the creek open, and come
to anchor in 8 or 10 fathoms, within a cable's length of the steep rocks, on the south
side of the creek. The best water is with the creek's mouth open. It will be ne-
cessary to carry a hawser on shore to the rocks, to steady the ship, as the tide here
runs in eddies. You may obtain fresh water from the creek at low water.
Upon entering the Out, there will be seen, on the larboard hand, a red house, on a point,
called Belie Ashe's Point, off which, at nearly a cable's length from shore, there is a
sunken rock, which may be readily distinguished by the eddy of the tide. Within this
point, on the S. E. is Oypsum or Plaster Cove, where shipping frequently anchor.
When abreast of Oypsum or Plaster Cove, the remarkable headland, on the western
side, named Cape Porcupine, will bear nearly S. W. To sail into the cove, keep nearly
in the middle ; and, when in 10 fathoms, let go your anchor. You will find sufficient
room for swinging round, in 7 fathoms ; here, off the western side of the cove, is the
sunken rock said to have been discovered lately, having only 6 and 8 feet over it, and ly-
ing about 60 fathoms off the shore ; if this information be correct, the greatest care must
be taken to avoid it.
SHIP HARBOR, which lies half way down the Out, on the eastern side, is a good
harbor for merchant sliipping. It is, however, more particularly useful to those sailing
northward, being a good outlet. It is a very proper place for ships of 16 feet draught.
If bound in, from the southward, give the starboard side a berth of a cable's length, it
being flat, and run in until you shut the north entrance of the Out,- and come to anchor
in 4 or 5 fathoms, soft bottom ; where you may wood on the Breton side, and water on
the opposite shore, at Venus' Creek ; the larboard side of this harbor is bolder to than
the starboard side, and deepest water. Without the harbor, one third from the Breton
s'de, you may anchor in 9, 10, to 13 fathoms, loose ground, in the strength of the tide.
Ships bound through the Gut, from the northward, may proceed through it with
safety, by keeping nearly in the mid-channel, there being no danger until they arrive off
the south point, called Eddy Point; but from this point extends a long spit of sand, with
large round stones, which must be left on the starboard side, at the distance of half a
mile from what may be seen above water. The race of the tide will serve to guide you
from it. Having passed the Spit of Eddy Point, you may steer to the S. S. E. until
HI.M.MS AMKKICAN COAST PILOT.
9r>
' Jnrk ntiH the
liriving |))-(i|)|«>,
tons. A rocky
n one nido, and
■H, nnd breiulth
IS, hut the west
inhly so. Tli(^
nnd, excepting
tern shore, and
or; a second is
;th from shore ;
(h'|)th ()( water
r ("ove, V^enus
ad'ord excellent
vliich generally
[| by the winds,
ir, the water in
run northward
after southerly
hesl passage is
veral anchoring
ather.
iry, 'yinp at the
leagues, thence
may run along
the offing, near
id nearly in the
I side, you may
)])en, and come
, on the south
It will be ne-
s the tide here
r.
use, on a point,
lore, there is a
. Within this
uently anchor,
in the western
ve, keep nearly
find sufficient
le cove, is the
over it, and ly-
atest care must
side, is a good
0 those sailing
feet draught.
ble's length, it
ome to anchor
and water on
bolder to than
m the Breton
h of the tide,
rough it with
they arrive off
t of sand, with
ance of half a
1 to guide yon
S. S. E. until
abreast of an island which appears covered with green spruce trees, having red bark.
lleiicH you proceeil to sea, aci ording to the charts.
Be cautious of ruiieiiii:^ in the directiitu of a dangerous steep rock, called the Oerlie-
ru» Kock, with oidy 1(1 l<et water over it, and on which the sea breaks with a wind. 'I'liis
rock lies with V erte or (Jreen Isl.iiid in a line with Cape Hoagais or Iron Cape, on the
Isle of Madame, at tlKMlisfaiice of aboul 4 ', miles from that island : to clear it to the south-
ward bring (Jreen Island open of the Albion (Mdfs; to go clear to the westward of the
(jerberus, bring the western point of Conway Island on with Cariton CMills, bearing N.
N. W.
At the entrance of the (tut, within a mile of Kddy Point, there is a middle ground of
7 to I'J fathoms, on which ships may stop a tide in moderate weather. To the west-
ward of this ground there is a deptli of IH fathoms, and to the eastward (d' it 'JO to 2.5
fathoms. With the wind iiic lining from the southward, steer in nearly west, and keep
the lead goitig, until you slioalcti to 1 1 lallioms, when you may let go your anchor.
(typsum, or Plaster ('ove, is so (valled from its valuable (piarry of gypsum, wliich ap-
pears to be exhaustless. The anchoratie at the mouth of this cove has from 10 to 4
fathoms; bottom of soft mii(i. Cape Porcupine, opposite to this cove, is .')()'j feet in
heiclit, anil this is the narrowest part of the strait. On the banks of the (Jut, in general,
the hills rise in easy acclivities, which present settlements on the whole range of the
shore.
INHAlllTANT RAV, Arc— Those who wish to anchor in Inhabitant Bay or Har-
bor, may bring the farm that is opposite to Hear Head open, the Head bearing W.S.W.
This mark will lead them clear, and to the southward of the Long Ledge, and in the
mid-channel, between it and the steep rocks on the east or opposite shore ; at the same
time take your soundings from the liong Ledge, or north shcue, all the way till you ar-
rive at Flat Point; then keep in mid-cliatmel between Flat Point and the island oppo-
site, from the N. K. side of which runs off a spit or ledge of rocks, at the distance of a
cable and a half's length; then port your helm, and run under island Point, and come
to in 5 fathoms, muddy bottom. I'p the river Trent are jilenty of Salmon, in the sea-
son, and there you may wood and water.
N. H. The leading-mark to ch .,r the steep rocks of Steep Point is, to bring the penin-
sula in a line over the point of Tiirhaltun I lead, bearing .S. nr S. }- K. tmtil you open the
island to the northward of Islaiid Point: then haul up for the outer harbor, and come
to in 10 or ]'i fathoms, n\U(ldy t)ott()m.
Those who are bound up thedut of Canso, and meet a N. or N. W. wind, at the south
end of the (Jut, and who are desirous of good and safe am horage in 10 to 12 fathoms
water, may come to on the north side of Hear Island; but, should >* blow hard, to a gale
of wind, down the (Jut, this anchorage is not altogether so secure s a careful master or
pilot woubl wish. You must then leave the road of Hoar Island, at .1 sail round the south
end of Bear Point, giving a berth to the spit that runs oli" it, of .'} caljles' length, then haul
round to the N. K. into Sea-Coal Hay, and come to anchor, in 4, 5, or G fathoms, sandy
and muddy bottom. There is also a rock under uater, said to lie about 100 fathoms to
uthward of Hear Island, having oidy (> or ri feet water over it ; it will be necessary
; this point a good berth, for fear of this danger.
•ks for anchoring, viz: bring Hear Head in a line over Flat Head, bearing W. S.
W. by S. and Cariton Clitls. to bear N. by F. or N. in '> or 6 fathoms, vou will
the southward of Hear Island, having oidy (> or ri feet water over it ; it will be necessary
to give this point a good berth, for fear of this danger.
Marks for anchoring, viz ;
W. or W. by S. and Cariton Clitls. to bear i\. by K. or i\. in '> or G fathoms, vou will
then have a good berth, sheltered from ihe W. iN. W. and N. winds. Here is sufficient
room to moor ten or twelve sail of any sliips of war, iVom the sixth to the third rate.
The following directions are given by Captain Aldndge for vessels bound through the
Gut when coming from the southward. We made land abreast of Richmoml or Mel-
ville Island, on the eastern shore of t!ie en'rKUce of the (nit of Canso, keeping at the dis-
tance of 2 miles or 1', mile from land, and sieering N. N. W. until we opened the town
ofArachat, when hauling further to the nonhward, so as to pass between the east shore
and the Cerberus Rock, which is nearly dry at low water, but over which the water con-
stantly ripples ; continuing this course, and with the Red Blufi" Point bearing in that di-
rection, we passed quite clear of that danger ; the above Red Point is the western entrance
to the (xut of Canso, and off it there is a ledge of rocks. The marks for the Cerberus
Rock area small round lanu "overed with trees, looking like an island, and having some
houses behind it, on with the centre of it, bearing east, and the outer extremity of Albi-
on's Cliffs bearing S. E. by E. you will then be abreast of the rock ; and when the church
comes open of the point bearing east, you will be opposite its N . W. end ; by keeping a
man at the mast head the rippling will be easily recognized, although it be nearly calm
and the sea quite smooth ; there is no danger between it and the Red Point on the lar-
board side, but you must give a good berth to that point which forms the entrance of the
Gut, because of the Spit which runs off it ; and when you are well past this Spit steer
oa mid'-'haoael through the Gut, aud you will go clear of all lianger. When yuu have
90
BLL.NTS AMKUICA.N COAST I'lr.OT.
It
T
■/!
got b«?vnn(l ('npn Porrupinp, stpcr N. N. W. nhoiit 5 lfa«uc», or unril f'apr Si. CiPorKe
iM'ars VV. N, W.ilisf;itU 7 miles; you will ilicii iiave piiNsfd to 'In? westwanl of thp Hou-
ilie Hank of only 2 rallioiiiN wal(*r, wliicli lies opposite to .lesiuo, and liy adopting a \.
N. K. coiirnf, yoii will clear the vnut point of I'rinte Kdward'* l.slan<t, and l»e in a fair
diret-tion lor the Magdalen Islnnds.
Slii|w L-oinint; down tlie (iut of ("nnso, wiiicli may ha*e reached past Kddv Point, or
as far as ('ape Arj;os, and caught wiiliaS. K. to a S. S. W. Wind, and cannot ludd their
own by heatinir to windward, may hear up and t-omi; to anchor in 'riirlialton liav, under
Turljaltoii Head, where they may ride salrly in iVom .'> to 7 fathoms water, mm'dv hot-
t«»m. 'I'he marks lor anclioriii!,' in 'riirl)idion hay nie. to lirini; the peninsula point in a
line over 'I'nrhallon Head, hearinij; .S. or S. \ W. or a point of land iidarid. a little up in
the country from Cap«! Argos shore, with f)ine trees on it, open to the eastward of the
Kcd Heail; or the said point of latid with pitio trees on it, over the pitch or point of
Turhalton Head; you are then sheltered hy the rocks or spit that runs from Turbalton
Head, in 4 to ft and 0 fathoms water, and wdl ride very safely on ^ood holdint; (ground.
But, should the wind shift to the S. W. or i\. W. you must take up your anchor and
beat out oftiie i)ay intoC'liedehiu-to 15ay, and proceed on your passnj^e to the southward.
Should the wind over-blow at .*^. W. so as to prevent yttur beating to windward into
Chedebucto Hay, you may come to an anchor in Kddy (.'ove, brinf{in>{ the low part of Kd-
dy I'oint to bear S. S. K. or S. by K. in 5, (!, or 7 fiitlionis wafer, fakin;; care to i;ive the
ship sufficient cable, lest you drive off the iiank iiit(» deep water, from \'i to 'JO fathoms.
TIDKS on the South Side of the (iulf of St. Lawrence. The tide rushes with creat
rapidity throunh the (iut of ('anso: and in the nan west part of the (Jut, or (.'ape Por-
cupine, it seldom runs at a slower rate than 4 or 6 miles in an hour. Here it Hows, on
the full and change, at IXjh.
Along shore, past Atibusliee and Antigonish, it sets towards Cape St. (leorge; and
rounding that Cape, proceeds thenc<' in a north-westerly direction. On the soutli shore
of Northumberland Strait, the time of flowing, on the full and change, is from VHlo
Vin h. The perpendicular rise is from '.i to 7 of.ri feet.
The tides here are very materially varied by tlie win<ls ; and it has been found that, at
times the stream of tlic (iut of C'anso has continued to run one way for niuuy succek-
•ive days.
ST. JOHN'S OR PRINCE EDWARD'S ISLAND.
This island 'u, veil settled, and possesses a good soil, fit for all general purposes. The
climate is commonly healthy and temperate, and not subject to such frequent and heavy
fogs as Newfoundland, and the adjacent (Joasls of JJreton and New Brunswick generally
are, nor yet to sudden changes of weather. The first ajipearance of the island is like
that of a forest emerging from the sea; the red cliffs, which are not very high, then ap-
pear; the lands are covered with lofty trees, and the sand hills on tlie northern side of
tUe island) are covered with verdure. The country is generally level, and abounds with
springs of fine water, and gioves of trees, which produce great quantities of excellent
timber. The greater part ol the inhabitants are employed in farming and fishing.
Rifleman's Shoal is situated ofl' tho south coast of the above Island, and the following
remarks were taken at anchor in 7 fathoms, about 2.7 or .3 cables' leiigth, S. S. W. of that
part on which the British ship Killeman grounded, vi/,. Point Prim N. N. W. -J W.
Sooth Woody Island E. by S. .V S. a point (supposed Point Jenijings) N. ^ W. a mer-
chant brig on shore on the Indian Rocks, bore S. E. about 3 or 4 miles distant.
The least water found upon the shoal was 8 feet, about half a cables' length to the
northward of where the Rifleman grounded. It appears to be a rocky shoal, of con-
siderable extent.
The coast forms numerous harbors, many of which are, however, fit for small vessels
only. The principal loading ports at present are on the eastern side, Cardigan Bay, or
the Three Rivers, and Murray Harbor; on the S. E. Hillsborough Bay and River; Be-
deque Bay on the southern side ; and Richmond Bay and Holland Harbor on the north.
CARDIGAN BAY, or the THREE RIVERS, lies between Boughton Island and
Panmure Island; it is the common entrance to three rivers; namely, Cardigan River,
Brudenell River, and Montague River. In the former there are from 7 to 3 fathoms wa-
ter, and in the others from 4 to 2 fathoms. George Town stands on a peninsula between
the rivers Brudenell and Cardigan. In these places many large ships have been loaded
with timber. There is anchorage without, in Cardigan Bay, in from 10 to 15 fathoms,
where a pilot may be obtained.
MIRAY, or MURRAY HARBOR lies close to the north-westward of Bear Cape ;
and the entrance is narrow and shoal, difficult of access, and not having more than 12
feet water. But small ships have frequently loaded here. Vessels coming from the
BLlM'sJ AMi:UICA> (OAST PILOT.
!)7
[)!• Sf. fipori^e
il ol' th«' Hon-
iiddptiriK n N.
1(1 l)«> ill a fair
lildy INiiiif, (ir
mot hold ihcir
oil itiiy, under
r, iiim'dy liot-
Niila |i(iiiit ill a
, a litllc ii|> in
istward (if tlic
( Il or point of
oiii Tiirbalton
ddini; i;rouii(t.
ir iinrlior and
he southward,
windward into
low part ol' Kd-
are to i;ivo the
ro 'JO falhoiiis.
ihfs with cr**at
or ('a|)r l»or-
;re it tluWM, uii
, Ciporgp; and
IP soiitii shore
is from V'll to
found that, at
niuiiy Kuccett-
irpospd. The
ent and heavy
vick generally
island is like
ligh, then ap-
rthern side of
abounds with
of excellent
fishing.
the following
S. W. of that
N
\v. y w.
w.
a mer-
itant.
length to the
jhoal, of cou-
sniall vessels
digan Bay, or
1 River; Be-
on the north,
on Island and
rdigan River,
fathoms wa-
isula between
been loaded
15 fathoms,
f Bear Cape ;
nore than 12
JDg from the
pamward, and bound to Murray Harbor, niiist avoid approarhin;: too tuar In the eastern
point, for a riilj;e of rockM NtrctclifM out a lull mile from it; beiween the eniit point and
Wood iNlaiid the urouiid is clear, with a drjilli of :i fatliniiis all the way, near the slior**,
ind the aii('liiiia::e uimmI.
HllJiSIM)K«»l <;il IJA V is I he (liirHt liay in tlie islinul, and the lliver HilNIiorouKli
ii4 a lar^'e iiavijL^alili' nvr ; biittiiiiiier lu-re is not pleniiliil. Alter passing the front about
a ((uartcrol a mile, keep towards the entrance of York Kiver, for a NJioal extends from tlie
(i|ipoHite shore to some distaiMN', and anelior nil' the town in six orei!,'!it fathonm. Ves-
sels bound lor ('liaili)iie Town, or piissiiii; tlirou:;li Nurllimiiberlaiid Strait, must be
careful to avoid the Indian Kot ivs, wliicli are covered at liiuli water ; and by iiii;lil il will
ahvavH be advisalil'' In keep on the iNuva .Scoiia side, particularly « hen passm;; by the
island of i'ictou.
JlKUK(^l'K IiAV. which lies between Oape Iv.'iiiont and ('arlrfnn Point, has ;:;on(l
aiichorini;;-|:rouiMl in Irotn (> to n . illioins. 'riie liarUor will admit ships of KiO tons, but
tlie channel is narrnw, croidxcii, and riijiiirrs a pilot. It is the cliicl' port for loading
timber: but tlie water iV-eze.s much sooner than at i'ictou, or the harltors on tlie N«iva
.Scotia coast.
HetweenCape F,i;nitiiit and \Ve.<t Cape, in Halifax orK','mont I'ay, tlicre is pnod anchor-
aije with iiortlitrly an I eiisicily winds, in (> or r' l,itlioiiis, iml care must be taken to giv«»
a good berth in \Vesf '',ipe, as a slioal runs oil' it I'lili •.» miles, in a S, W. direeiion.
From llio *\orili ( "ape ol'tiie i-.l.iiid a siiual spits mi' ne uly J miles, close to which then)
are 4 fathoms of water, and tin; i;round is (lat much lartlier oil', tlu re being only (> fathoms
water at the distaiiee of-' or ') miles from tiie cape. Vessels sailing llirougli the Strait
of Northiimlierland, \\itli liie intention o| ;:uiii<; to any port on the noriliern side of the
island, will, alter giviir^ the .Norili Cape a wide bertii, llnd all the utlii'r pari of the const
clear from foul ground, to within tlie distance ol a ipiarler of a mile ol'ihe land, and may
anchor any where in not less than .'J fathoms water; and ships coming Crom the eastward,
will find an advantage in sailing along the iioiMiern shore of the island, to going through
the Strait of iNortliumberland. lor there is more sea room, and the prcvr.iling winds are
from the S. Westward; tliev may safely niii along within a mile of the shore, until tjjtey
approach Richm(,iid J>ay. There is a reel exieinling I'lom the east poirtt of the isliind to
the distance of .3 or I miles, and which should not be approached in the night neater than
to the depth «»f 17 or IS fathoms. The only liarliore on the north side of the island, for
ships of large luirtheii, are H(dlaii(i llarlior and Jtieliiiioiid I'ay; and olf these harbors,
the sand banks, whicli form the bars, run oil niiire tliaii a mile from the shore. ,
ST. PETKli'.S is the ihsi harbor on the iiorlli snle, when coming from the eastward,
and is fit for small vessels only. The bar runs out about a (piarter of a mile.
Savage Harbor is (if oiilv for small cral't, and has a liar before it.
TRACADIK. or r.l". i)l''()llD iJAY, has about 6 or 10 feet of water on the bar, which
extends outward half a mile.
HARRIN(iT()N, or LITTLE RASTICO, admits only small vessels; it coinmu-
nicates with Great Rastiro or Harris ]]ay, whicli is very shallow on the bar, and calculat-
ed to admit fishery schooners only. — The bar stretches olf n-arly li;<lf a mile. '
NEW LONDON, or CRHNVILLE IJA V, has about h or in feet of water, but the
bar is very difficult, and the channel runs in west. Tlie bar extends nearly half a mile out.
RICHMOND \\.\ Y, in- M ALPEC!, is a spacious harbor, having about 17 or 18 feet
upon the bar. The sands wliich form tlie bar extend more than a mile ofl'tlie harbor.
The shoals on each side are generally discernible from the swell on them, and the course
in and out is nearly east and west. On a vessel's anchorin": outside the bar a pilot will
come oft'. There are twfi entrances into the bay ; between tiiem is Eishery island. The
.«astern is the only cliannel by which a vessel of burthen can enter; the western channel
being very shallow and intricate. Vessels usually complete their landing at about a mile
within Fishery Island, but a considerable current runs there. The anchorage is good,
and vessels lay in jierfect safcrv.
HOLLAND HARBOR, or CASCUMPEC, is the westernmost harbor on tlie north
side. Here the sands form a bar as ;it Richmond Ray, and run oil' about a mile and a
half. The harbor may easily be known by the sand hills which extend along the coast;
about half-way between the entrance of Richmond Hay and Holland Harbor, is one san(i
hill, near Conway Inlet, much higher than the rest. Holland Bay may be known by its
being at the west end of all the range of sand hills. There is good anchorage close to
the bar in from 5 to 8 fathoms.
On the bar is a depth of 18 feet of water, and It will not be difticult for a stranger to run
in with a ohip not drawing more than 12 feet of water. There being two leading marks, ,
painted white, bearing W. by N. by compass, a vessel of this draft, by keeping the two
marks in one, with a leading wind, may run in with perfect safety. But as these marks
will carry a vessel over the south tail of the northern sand, vessels drawing more than 19
13
>mxiw,finfrmti,<t
1
98
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
feet should not venture without a pilot. There is a buoy on the end of the south sand;
between that and tin; '• 1 of the north shoal there is 18 feet of water. Vessels enterio^
tho poit, if drawing; -c than 12 feet of water, should not brini; the marks in one till
they are within the buj . The soundings off the harbor are rei!;ular, and the ground clear.
Ships on cij iiinsj; to anehor off the bar, will immediately bo attended by a pilot.
There is ahoaler water between the outer and inner harbor, on which is about 14 feet
of water in common tides. Vessels generally load to 13 feet in the inner harbor, and
complete their cargoes in the outer one. In the former, they lie alongside a wharf at
Hill's Town, in 4 fathoms water, where they lie witliout any current, as in a dock. In
the outer harl)or the spring tide runs strongly, but the water is smooth, the sta bein"
broken oft' by the bar.
The CUlvRKNTS around the island are very inegular, frequently running many
days along tlie norrh coast, from east to west, and at other times from west to east.
The T^J^l'^^t 'dso, in tlie north side ports, are irregular, excepting spring tides.
They sometimes keep .'lowing for 48 hours, and at other times not u^ore than 3. In com-
mon tides, the water seldom rises more than two feet; in sprii.g tides, (except in strong
winds from the northward and eastward,) uot more than five feet.
GENERAL DE.SCRIl'TIOxN OF THE COASTS OF BRETON ISLAND, (fcc.
The N. W. Coast of llroton Island, all along from Cape North to Cape Linzee, is, in
the inland parts of tin; fountry. very high; but, in some places, it falls down gradually
towards the shore. Sailing along on this sitie of the island, from the northward, you
may safely stand in to the distance of two leagues from shore, until you arrive otf Justau
Corp or Henry Isla;ul, when you may stand within one mile of the shore.
' ' In the winter season, Alien the weather is mild, tho S. E., N. E. and N. W. shores ol
Breton Island alxmiut with all sorts of fish; and |)leiity of lobsters and oysters are to be
found towarrds Prince Edward Island, especially in Hillsborough Bay.
The Eastern exniMnity of Breton Islanrl apiiears, on the sea shore, and to some dis-
tatfDe up the coiiuiry, barren and rocky; and the tops of tho hills, being much alike,
have noching remavkalilo to distinguidi them. The rn-ns of the lighthouse and town of
Louisbourg serve, however, to point out that part of the island on which they stand,
The coast continues rocky on the shore, with a few banks of red earth, which appear
less barren.
The N. E. Coast of Breton Island, from Cape North to Cape Ensume, the water is
deep, except very near the shore. From Cape Ensume to Cape Dauphin is high land,
but from Cape Dauphin to Scatara Island it becomes rather low : between Port St. Anne
and Scatara Island, a vcsstd may st..nd in shore to 15, 10, an<l 5 fathoms, in clear wea-
ther, the water gradually decreasing in depth. The following soundings were taken by
Capt. Philip Aldridgo, on making Cape North :
O ' o /
Latitude iG 50 Longitude 5'J 5(J 9"2 fathoms, black mud.
4b 57 5!) 57 85 ditto, ditto.
47 1 58 5') 95 ditto, rocky bottom.
47 10 58 47 100 ditto, small red stones.
BLANCHEROTTE, or WHITE CLIFF.— On the south coast of Breton is a re-
markable clilf of whitish earth. Four niilcs to the westward of it is a small woody isl-
and, lying at the distance of two miles from sliorc, and olf the little harbor called St. Es-
prit. Without this island, at the distance of a mib' and a half, on the S. E. is a breaker.
The land hence to the Isb? of Madame, or Richmond, is generally low : it presents
several banks of briglit red earth, with beaches between them. Albion Clift", on the south
side of Madame, is rocky, remarkably high and precipitous. On the S W. side of this
island is the settloiuent called Arachat.
In the descrijition of the (iut of Canso, already given, (page 94,) we have noticed the
general appearance of its coasts. On' proceeding towards this strait, it should be reniyrk-
ed that the Isles of Canso, on the Nova Scotia side, are surrounded with many low white
rocks and breakers. The south shore of Chedabucto Bay is iron-bound and steop to ;
its north shore consists of red cliifs and beaches.
Off the Cut of Canso, from the southern entrance northward, the western shore,
throughout, is high, rocky, and steep; the eastern shore low, with beaches. From th?
north end of the Cut, the eastern shore to .lestico, or Port Hood, is distinguished by
high, rocky, red cliffs. The opposite shore has several remarkable cliffs of gypsum, or
plaster, which appear extremely white. Cape St. George is iron-bouud and very high,
its summit being 420 feet above the level of the sea.
BLUiNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
99
r the 3ou(h sand ;
Vessels enterinj;
marks in one till
the ground clear.
r a pilot.
1 is aboDt 14 feet
iner harbor, and
igside a wharf at
IS in a dock. In
th, the Bta bein"
\y running many
west to east,
iug spring tides,
■han 3. In com-
(except in strong
ISLAND, &c.
pc Linzee, is, in
I down gradually
northward, you
arrive off Justau
ire.
N. W. shores of
oysters are to be
md to some dis-
cing much alike,
)use and town of
liich they stand,
1, which appear
me, the wafer is
lin is high land,
n Port St. Anne
IS, in clear wea-
s were taken by
>m.
tones.
Breton 13 a re-
mall woody isl-
r called St. Es-
E. is a breaker,
ow : it presents
ff, on the south
W. side of this
ave noticed the
)uld be remtirk-
nany low white
I and steep to ;
western shore,
es. Fromth5
stinguished by
of gypsum, or
and Yery high.
JESTICO, or PORT HOOD, situate on the western side of IJreton Island, is a safe
harbor for frigates with any wind; the imchorage is in from 4 to o fathoms, mud and
sandy bottom : liere you may get both wood and water. The leading mark going in is,
Cape Linzee on with the highest sand hills that are on the N. N. E. side of the beach,
bearing N. by E. or N. N. E. ; these kept in a line will lead you clear of Spithead, in 4
to 6 fathoms. On the opposite biiore is a long and broad flat, stretching from tlie shore
three quarters of a mile, called the Dean, to which come no nearer tliun in 4 fathoms.
KVom hence the shore runs nearly in a straight N. E. direction to C!a|)e St. Laurent,
whence it turns easterly to Cape North: during the wliole of this distance there is no
harbor of note, but several salmon rivers. To the southward of Cape North four or five
miles is Ashpee Harbor, where there is a settlement formed for the relief of shipwrecked
seamen, and to the southward of that, about 30 miles, is the entrance to St. Anne's Harbor.
ST. ANNE'S HARJJOR, situate on the N. E. side of the island, was called by the
French, when in their possession. Port Dauphin, and is a very safe and spacious harbor.
It has but a narrow entrance, and carries 4. V fathoms at low water, until you join the
beach. When in mid-channel, you will have 9 to in fathoms, and in the harbor from 5
to 10 fathoms, muddy bottom. On the north side the land is very high, and sliipr- of war
may lie so near to the shore, that a water hose may reach the frc^di water, and a ship may
be loaded in one day, from a cascad.-i which runs from the top of the rock.
For more particular directions for St. Anne's Harbor, you will observe as follows:—
After you have i)assed the Sihoux or Hertford Isles, on the cast side of tlie entrance,
keep the south shore on board, if the wind be to the S. E. and as you approach Passage
Point, bring Cape Ensume, or Cape Smoke, which lies to the norlliward, nearly on
with Black Point : steer with these marks in one, until you are nearly abreast of Passage
Point, ofl' which lies a sunken rock of 6 feet water, and op|)osite to which begins the spit
fif St. Anne's Flat, and the narrowest ])art of the channel. Now keej) a small hummock
up in the country, nearest to the shelving high land to the westward of it ; which hum*
mock is on the middle land from the water-side, in a line over the (ishing-hut, or fishing-
stage erected on the beacdi : this will lead in the best water, until you enter the^|l)ow
A i)art of the beach. When advanced thus far in, keep the opening open, (aboiit the'siz^
of two gun-ports,) which makes its aiijjearance up the S. W. ann. This opening IdtJks
like two steep chtVs, with the sky appearin.; between them, aiid will lead you between the
beach and the south shore, in mid-channel, through *J ant! 10 fithoms, and past the beach
point, off which a si)it stretches to the .S. W. about "J cables" length. Having passed
this spit, come to anchor in either side of the harbor in from 5 to 10 fathoms, nmddy bot-
tom, and sheltered from all winds.
LA BRAS D'OR. — 'J'liis pla e ins liitherto rem linod unknown, and unfrequented,
but having recently been visited by many vessels in the timber trade, some description
may be acceptable. It aj)pe us, from the charts, there are two entrances to this lake or
inlet, the North-jrn, or fhcal Entrance, and the Southern, or Little Entrance; they are
thus described by Mr. '^J'homas Kelly, the only ])ilot of the ])lace ; but the names of the
places he refers to are generally unknown, and cannot be aiiplied to any publication
extant.
SaHinn- Directions for iJie G rand liras d'Or Entranc<\ — " Ship* from the southward
must give Point le Couie a berth (/f about two miles, and steer from thence for the east-
ern end of the inside Bird Island, until you bring M'Kenzie I'oiiii and Cary's Beach in
one. Make for the 15lack Rock Point until you have Messrs. Dull'us's Store just open of
Point Noir ; then steer for GoosebiMiy Beacli, until you briii; a clearing on Duncan's
Head over M'Ktnzie's Point. It is to be observed, that ships coming in with the tide of
flood must keep Point Noir well alioard, to avoid the eddy and whirlpools on the north
I side of the Gut, which has various settiiitrs. Vou must then steer for I'oint Jane, to
keep the fair stream of tide as far as the Round Cove, where there is fair aiicliorage in 7
or 8 fathoms, good holding cr um I. When a!)reast of the Bound (Jove, steer over for
Duncan's Head; iiiid when abreast of this Head, stCL^r for Long Beach, until you bring
a tall ])ine-tree, on the Upi)cr Seal Island, in one with a notch or valley in the mountain.
You will then make f)r the i)oiiit of the Upper Seal Island, which will carry you clear
of the slioals on the islands, as also the South Shoal, or Middle (iroiiiid. Tlie marks
for this shoal are a white rock in the bank for the eastern end, and a white birch-tree for
the western end. When abreast the western end of this shoal you may keep tlie middle,
there being no difticulty until you come to Red Head. If boniid to lu'iit Harbor, after
doubling tlie Ked Head, steer for a rcmarkalile red bank covered with small bushes, until
you bring Mr. Ihilfiis's house entirely open of the beach which is on tin' Island : there is
a depth of from 4 to 5 fathoms in this harbor, and good holding ground."
Directions for that annoflkr L'lhr colkil St. Patrick's Chaiintl and up to Whookamnsh.
— " From Red Head you will steer well over for the Duke of Kent's Island, to avoid a mud
100
BLUNT'S AftlERICAN COAST PILOT*
\
shoiil which runs ofT from M'Kay's Point. When abreast of the western end of the Bukc
of Kent's Island, sail for Wassahack Head until al)rtrast of Stony Island. Then steer
for Cranberry Head, so as to clear a shoal lying off from Wassaback Head ; when abreast
of Cranberry Point, sheer well over for the JJell Hock, to avoid a shoal lying on the south
side of the chaiuiel ; wiicn aljreast of tiie J5ell Hock, ste<rfor Green Beach, observing to
keep Bakdock River shut in until you are well up witli Green Beach. You will then
steer for a beach on the south shore, until you cross the opening of tlie Narrows; you
niay then sail through the Narrows, keeping the middle until you conic to the western
end, when you must haul round the southern shore (l)each) until abreast of the Plaister
Cliffs; you are then clearofall, and in the Whookainagh Lake."
Of the Anvlwnnxc throu}j;h the Bras d'Or. — ''The fu'st anchorage is the Round Cove,
where you may ride in 7 or 8 fathoms. You may anchor in 5 or 6 fathoms, in the cen-
tre of the harbor, on a middle ground ; the marks fur which arc to bring the Table Island
u handspike's length open of IJlack Rock Point and Point Jane bearing N. W. On the
north side of the harbor tliere is good anchorage as far up as the Lower Seal Islands, and
to the eastward of the Upper Seal Islands, in 5 fathoms, and to the westward of the same
islands in 7 fathoms. There is no other place of aiicliorage from this to the Big Harbor,
where you may ride in 7 or 6 fathoms; from thence you may anchor at any time."
Setting of the Tide in Grand Jhi/sfl' Or. — "The tirst quarter Hood sets from the north-
ward, directly over the shoal ; last quarter W. S. W. being directly through the channel,
and meeting with the tide coming over the shoal, sets towards the Black Point which
occasions it to shoot across the (Jut, nr.tking a niuuber of whirlpools and strong eddies
on each side of the cliannel, which slacks two or three times during the tide. The first
quarter ebb sets over the slioal to the northward ; last quarter directly through the chan-
nel.— N.. B. The tide of ebb is the fairest setting tide. The tide runs in until half-ebb,
and out until hah'-llood, in regular tides; but the winds make a great alteration, N. E.
winds making h'gli tides, and S. W. neajnug them ; also tides running out with S. W.
winds until high water, and in until low water with N. E. winds. Tides rise four feet,
unless affectdid. by winds. High water ten minutes past 8 o'clock, full and change."
SYDNEY ¥lARBUR. the entrance to which lies 4 leagues to the S. E. of that of
St. Anne, is another excellent harbor, having a safe and secure entrance, with soundings
re^gular, from sea into 5 fathoms. On a low pr/mt wliich you leavt; on the larboard hand
going in, a Lighthouse is erected showing a fixed light, elevated IGO feet above the level
of the sea.
Entering the harbor, give the point a berth of one-third of a mUe, and steer W. S. W.
when you will have from 7 to 'J fathoms water ; within the point the shore is bold and
perfectly safe.
In the inner part of the entrance. Beach Point and Ledge, on the south side, are steep
to, but Sydney Flats, on the opjiosite side, are regular to 4 fathoms. When past the
Beach Point, you may run up the river Dartmouth to the S. W. and come to anchor in
any depth you please, to 5 and 10 fathoms, a fme nmddy bottom.
The harbor of North Sydney, wh.'re the vessels arc loaded with coal by lighters, lies
9 miles above the Lighthouse on the north sidt; of the river. The coal is obtained three
miles above the Lighthouse, on the same side of the river as the town. There is a
Steam Engine at the Coal 31ines, with three very tall chimneys, the smoke of which can
be seen 8 or 9 miles at sea on a clear day. The tide in the harbor flows at 9h. and rises
6 feet.
West of Sydney Harbor are Indian Bay and Windham River, both places of anchor-
age, and fit for vessels to rim into, altiiouiih little frecjuented at present ; beyond these is
Murgain or Cow Bay, at the northern jjoiut of which is Flint Island; there is a passage
between this Islaiul and the main, with 14 fathoms water, but this sh<juld be adopted
with the greatest caution, on account of the mnnerous rocks under water that are scat-
tered about: this Bay is open to ilie iiDrtli-eastward, and its further end is encundjcrod
with an extensive shallow flat, whicli dries at low water.
Miray Bay is to the southward, and its entrance is boimded by C'ape Murgain and the
Island of Scatara; the Bay is wide, and runs in 3 Icaiiues, branching off at its Upper part
into two rivers; there is dee]) water witjiin it, from 20 to G fathoms, and clear from dan-
gers, but it affords no shelter for shij)ping.
SCATARA ISLAND lies in about the latitude of 4fi° North ; its length E. and W.
is nearly 2 leagues, and its breat'fh about one ; it is separated from Cape Breton by a
( hannel into Miray Bay, but this is too hazardous for strangers, and freiiuented only by
those coasters who are well acquainted with its dangers.
As vessels from Europe frequently first make the land about Scatara Island, it may be
useful to give the following observations, conununicated by Captain Philip Ahhidge, who
says, "I am of opinion the Banquereau Bank is laid down somewhat too far to the east-
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
101
ward in the rliaits, for on my p;\.ssi(c;e to Quebec, in 1823, I found no bottom with BO
fiithonis, where oO Tttlioms is liiid down • and with latitude 44^ 44', and lon£;itude 57°,
the longitude well corrected andascertainw.V there was no ground at 80 fathoms ; and in
O ' o '
Latitude 44 3G Lonj^itude 57 34 no ground with 80 fathoms.
■ — 45 (J i)f^ 'JO 20 fathoms, white sand and stones.
45 6 5d 24. ....... .22 ditto, sand and pieces of shells.
45 13 58 2'J. . . k 30 ditto, rocky ground.
J5 26 58 30. ...... . .no ground with 80 fathoms.
We made the Island of Scntara in the evening, during a fog, and saw great quantities of
gaimcts. who vcrv .seldom llv far from the land."
LUL'lSlJOrMUr HAlllVoil is .situated on the S. E. side of Cape Breton, to the
westward of .Scatara Island, and is very easy of access; you may be soon in, and you
may likewise be soon out, if you please. In doing so be careful to avoid the Nag's Head,
a sunken rock nn the starboard liand going in. The east part of the harbor is the safest.
On the east head, and oi. the site of the old French Lighthouse, a White Beacon has
been erected; it may l)e scon some distance. Tlie inhabitaiitsconsist of a few fishermen
(jnly. Water is plenty liere, but wood is scarce. The Nag's Head Rock lies nearly
one-third from tlie lighthouse point, and has no more than 3 feet on it at low water.
The larboard side going in is the boldest.
GABARUS BAY. — From the entrance of Louisbourg to Guion Isle, called also
Portland Tsl(>. the course is .S. W. I)y W. and the distance moi'o than 3 leagues. Be-*
tween lies the l)ay called (iaburus Bay, which is spacious, and has a depth of from 20 to
7 fathoms. Off tiui south point of this bay, called Cape Portland, lie the Cormorants, a
number (jf islets and rocks, which are dangerous. About 4 leagues to the westward of Ga-
oarusBay is tbe l'':jrke(l Harbor, a narrow winding iidet, where small vessels mayrunintO»
and lie landlocked. .\nd (ivc miles 8. Westward of this is the remarkable white cliff, al-
ready noticed, lad called Caj)e iJlancherotte. The shore now winds to the westward, to
Cape liinchinbroke and the Isle of Madame. •
Arachat llarljor has two entrances; the north-western one, being Very narrow, ought
never to i)e atteuiptcil without a leading wind, as there is nf)t room for a large ship to
swing to her auchors, sliould she be tal;en aback. When going in, give the led^, to the
westward of Seymoiu' Island, a good berth, not ajiproaching it nearer than 8 fathoms,
and keep as near as possible in mid-channel, to enur by the South-Eastern passage steer -
for Port Maraclie, rouniiinsj; it in 8 fathoms at about two cables' length off, and keep that
shore on board at neatly the same distance and depth of water until the church bears
north ; you will then see a small house (the dead house) on the top of the hill behind
the church ; bring that on with the east end of the church, and then steer in that direc-
tion ; you will thus pass mid-way to the eastward of the Eleven and Five Feet Shoals«
and als'i to the westward of the Fiddle-head Slioal ; proceed with this mark on, until a
red house on Fiddle-hoad PoiiU coiii(>s on with the dark rocky extreme of the point,
bearing E. i S. ; you will then be to the northward of the Twelve Feet Shoal, and may
haul up to the westward, where you will liave excellent anchorage on fine soft mud, o}*-
posite to the low sandy beaeli, mi the middle of Seymour Island, in 10 fathoms.
Fox Island .\nchorage is one of the greatest mackerel fisheries in Nortii America,
during the motiliis of September and October. When sailing in you must pass to the
westward of Fox Island, uiviiig it a berth of a (juarter of a mile, as there are rocks both
above and under water, with .'J and 4 fathoms close to them. You may anchor in from
4 to 10 fathoms, with the west end of the Island bearing frou) E. N. E. to N. N. E, keep-
ing about midway between the island and the main. The water shoals gradually to the
bar, which extends from the island to the opposite shore; it has not more than 6 or 7
feet on its deepest part, and dries in one place about one-third ol' the distance from the
islanil to the main ; with northerly and with westerly winds, the fishing vessels ride to the
eastward of it in (Vom two to foiu' fathoms, and shift to the westward with easterly winds.
At Milford Haven, it is high water full and change at 8', h. and the conuuon spring
tides rise 8 feet. At llu? Day of Roeks at 8[ h. rising 7 and 8 teet, and, at the Gut of
Cunso, at 8,^ h. eommon spring tides rising 51 feet.
To clear "the ('erberus Itock to the westward, bring Arachat Church open of the west
end of Seymour Island. To clear it to tlie southward, bring Bear Island just to touch
Edily Point : (ireen Island in a line with Point Pogan will lead directly upon it.
CHEDABUCTO BAV is wide and s])acious; it is bold toon both shores, and free
from danger ; on its southern side, which is high and nearly straight, of Fo.x's Island and
Crow Harbor. Fox Island is small, and lies near the shore.
CROW HARBOR is situated on the south side of Chedabucto Bay, and is capable
of containing ships of war of the 0th and- 5th rates, merchant ships, &c. Many schoon-
ms.
"WPM^P— •-
102
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PII OT.
ers and sloops resort here in the months of July and Aiigtist, to take mackerel and her-
rings. The passage in is to the S. W. of tlie Jsland tliat lies in the entrance. (Jn the
south side of the beach, a beacon is erected, to lead ships clear of the t'orhyn Hocks.
Keep this beacon in a line with a remarkable tree upon the high land, and it will lead
you also clear of the Hook Island liock, that lies Mo fathoms from the N. W. j)oiut of
Hook Island.
MILFORD HAVEN, or the Harbor of Guysborough, at tlie head of the IJay, is im-
peded by a bar, but a sloop of war may pass over it. Within the bar vessels lie in j'cr-
tect security ; the tide, however, sets in and out with great rai)i(iity. 'J'hc town is at
present a place of little trade ; Init it is protected by a battery. A little to the south-
ward of Guysborough is Salmon liiver, which rises a considerable way up the country,
and contributes to fertilize an extensive tract of good land. From Manchester round
the north shore of Cliedabucto Day ihesliorcs are full of settlements, and wear a pleasing
aspect, and on the northern side of Cliedabucto l>ay you will see several red ciifis ; this
shore is sandy, with regular soundings in the middle of the Day ; the water is deep, from
25 to 35, (fee. to 50 fathoms.
^ :H
THE SOUTHfJRIV C«AST OF I\OVA SCOTIA.
CHEDABUCTO BAY TO HALIFAX HARBOR.
DESCRIPTION OF THE LAND.— The eastern part of Nova Scotia is broken
into thesevecat'islands and passages as r('])rc.sented on the ('harts. Of the islands, which
are low and covered with stunted fir-tic.'s, the/irst on the N. E. is called Durell's Isl-
and, the secoftd George's I«:land, and the third, Caiiso or St. Andrew's Island ; outside
this latter Island is the smalle;- one, called Cranberry Island, which is now distinguished
*^by the liglithouse below described.*
:', CAPE CANSO is the outer, i/r easternmost point of St. Andrew's Island. From
this Cape, westward, to Torbay, the coiist makes in several wliite heads or points ; here
the country is much broken ; and near the S. E. extremity many \vhit<i stones appear
from the offing, hke slice]) in the woods. During a southerly gale the sea is dreadful
here. From Torbay to Liscombe Harbor there are banks of red earth and beaches;
and from Liscombe Harbor to the liugged Islands, (excei'ting the White Isles,
which are white rocks,) the Capes and Outer Islands are bound with black slaty rocks,
generally stretching out in spits from east to west: and from the Rugged Islands to
JDevil's Island, at the entrance of the Harbor of Halifax, there are several remarkably
steep red cliiTs, linked with beach.
The fishermen of Arachat are w ell acquainted with the channels and inlets on 'his coast,
and frequent them, more ])articularly in the spring and fall, to catch mackerel and her-
rings, of which large slioals commonly lesort here ; but the rocks are so numerou.*, and
the passages so devious, that no stranger should attempt them.
Of the many rocks lieieabout, the outer lireaker called the Jlass, a rock of 3 feet water,
lies more than two miles E. ^V »5. from the lighthouse on Cranlieny Island. At seven-
tenths of a mile S. E. from Cape Canso is a similar rock, called the Roaring Bull ; and,
at one mile to the E. S. E. of the latter, there is said to be another, discovered by a
fisherman of Canso, in IHITJ; but its existence seems to l)e (|ucsti(inable.
CANSO HARBOR. — Sailing from the westward into this harbor, .';o soon as you iiave
passed the Roaring Bull, over which the sea generally breaks, run for Pitipas or Ikcd
Head, taking care when above the Black Rocks, to keep thein open of the rocky islets
off Cape Canso, until you bring (ilas::{)w Head and the north end of Inner Island in one,
which will carry you above Man of War Ro.*k ; then steer westerly, being careful to
uToid Mackerel Rock, and make for ]>nryiiig Island, the north end of which you must
not approac h nearer than to have a depth of five fathoms; then anchor to the north-
westward of it on a bottom of mud.
" Ncartliis Cape a new lichllioiiso has been erected on Cranl)crry I?lnnd, and calcuiatrd to be
of mostcasentia! service to iiiarincrs win frequent diis dangrrous const, but more ])nrticularly those
who intend passinjr llirougli the (Jut of Cnnso. It lins been observed that t'u- (iut of Canso will, by
tlipse means, becoine the common thorourrhfare to the (nilf and River of St. Lawrence, and tend to
Aiitigatc ihe inconvenience an i rigors of a late or cailj' passage to (Quebec, &€.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
103
St. Andrew's Passa::5e, le;i(!in;T to Glasgow Harbor, being so thickly encumbered with
rocks, can only be navigated by those who are well acquainted with its dangers.
Coming t'roui the eastward pass between Cape Canso and Cranberry Island ; giving the
latter a sufficient berth to avoid a shoal which stretches to the southward of it, and steer
for Piti[ .;s Head, as before directed. The Northern Passage, between Durell's and
George's Islands, notwithstanding its narrowness, yet having a depth of water, and a clear
channel, will be found to be the best passage. In sailing in, keep mid-channel between
Bald and Net Rocks, the former beiug above water, and the latter drying at onequirter
ebb, when you may steer with safety by attending to the chart, and the situation of Bury-
ing Island. At Cape Canso it is high water full and change at 50 minutes after 8 o'clock,
and the tides rise from 5 to 8 feet.
DOVE II BAY is a wild deep indent, with a number of islands and sunken rocks a\ its
head ; yet shelter may be tound on the western shore, or during a south-east gale, by
giving a berth to the rocks that lie olf tlie south end of Big Dover Island ; these are verj
visible in bad weather ; haul up under the Island, and anchor between the small islands
on the eastern side ; within these 'slands Little D(jver passage continues out south-east-
ward, having 5, 6, and 7 fathoms water, and tpiite safe.
Eastward of Little Dover is St. Andrew's Cliannel, for which no directions can be
given, for even those who are well accpuiinted witli the navigation, cannot keep themselves
clear of the rocks. This channel leads to Glasgow Harbor, which is, in fact, a part of
Canso Harbor.
These jjlaces, says Mr. Lockwood, deserve notice, as they may afford shelter in cases
of emergency, and in war time are nests for privittters; while from the heights adjacent
may be had an extensive view of whatever passes in the offing.
RASPBHRUY HARBOR is to (he westward of that of Canso, or Port Glasgow: it
is small, and the shore is within quite bold. At tlio entrance, on the eastern side, is aQ
island, having a ledge close to it on the S. E. l>y rounding this ledge, you may steer
directly into the harbor, and come to an anchor uii(Ii'r the island which lies in the middle
of it, in the depth of 7 tatlioms, where you will ritlo safely. The country here is rockj
and barren, and there is a quarry of granite, niiuh in request for millstones. The outlet
between Raspberry Island and the main, is a complete dock, where vessels can lash them'
selves to both shores, and ride in .'50 feet water; but half way through it has only 10 feet.
WHITE HAVEN, which is two leagues to the westward of Raspberry Harbor, is a'
place of hideous aspect. Of its roicky islets, the larger and outer one, called White Head,
from the color of its sides, is 70 feet above the level of the sea. This islet appe'ars round
and smooth, and is a useful mark, as the passage in, on either side, is in mid-channel,
not dilTicult to navigate, and the anchorage is good throughout, in a muddy bottom. Off
the head are two breakers, one S. S. E. and the other E. by^. half a mile off.
TORB AY. — The entrance of this bay is formed on the west by a bold headland, called
Berry Head. The channel in. is between this head and the islands to the eastward. E.
S. E. from the head, and south of George's Island, are three very dangerous rocks, which
do not break when the sea is smooth. Within the bay, under the western peninsula, there
is excellent anchorage in from 6 to 4 fathoms, iuddy bottom, up to the eastern par^ of
the bay, there is also anchorage on the western side of the bay in from 7 to 3 fathoms,
similar ground, where a vessel may |-e in safety during any gale. The adjacent lands are
rocky, but vessels are built here of from 40 to IJO tons, which are employed in the fish-
eries.
The principal dangers to be avoided in entering, are the small sunken rocks in the
offing, which in smooth water do not break ; they should be left to the eastward. Within
the bay the anchorage is excellent in a luuddy bottom, with the exception of a few spots
of rocks, sheltered from every wind.
Tufhiui to Countr)j Harbor. — From Torbay, westward, to Country Harbor, the land, in
general, continues rocky and sterile, with deep water close in, but regular soundings with-
out, and from 30 to 20 fathoms of water.
Coddle's Harbor, which is o\ leagues to the westward of Berry Head, affords shelter
to small vessels only; and these enter on the eastern side, to clear the breakers. There
is a deep inlet called New Harbor, which lies al)out 7 miles from the islands, and connected
with a chain of extensive lakes, but its navigation is obstructed by a bar across its en-
traiice ; and it is open to southerly winds.
Nr]\V HARBOR. — This ])lace is so much exposed, that even small vessels which
occasionally resort there in the fishing season, are under the necessity of leaving it the
moment a southerly wind arises.
Inland Harbor lies between Harbor Island and the main, and affords excellent anchor-
age on a bottom of mud ; it is particularly convenient for going to sea with almost any
wind.
r^^^^^^
104
BLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
Isaac's Harbor is on iiw north-east side of Country Harl)or, and liiis ^ood holding
ground, with snllicicnt depth of water for any vessel. Between Isaac Harbor and Har-
bor I'oint, the jjronnd is fonl and rocky.
CUUiNTRV llAKliUJi.— The tine Ijarbor, called Country Ilariuir, is navi^al.le f„i
the largest ships, twelve miles imni its entrance. It is, at |)resent. but thinly settled,
yet there are reasons for believing that, in consecpu'nce of improvements in the neiglibor-
hood, the population will s])e(Miily increase. The shores an; bold ; the anclim'au'e soft
inud, .vith a deiith of l.'3 to ■") fathoms. iMr. Lorh-icno'l has said that. " iki i)(isiti(m in the
prov tice is more advantageous (or settlers than this linrlior: at its mouth tlic isbuids af-
ford shelter to <isherme;i and small vessels, as well as tiie means of erecting their stages ;
and tlie fishing grounds, at a short distance in the ofling, abound in halibut, haddock, cod,
and what they term the i)ait-tishery ; that is, mackerel, gaspereaux, snu-lls. iVc. Salmon
•fire plentiful in the., season ; and, but for the inipi-ovident use of iliis v.duaijle addition
to the means of subsistence, would continue for ages." 'i"he ledges olf tiie harbor gene-
rally break, and between them are deep passages. On advancing from the eastward,
there are two rocks to lie avoided, wliich lie as shown on the Charts; proceeding inward,
you should give (ireen [slaiid a small b(Tth, and the dangers on that sidt; will be avoidt'd.
The rocks on the west id' the entrance, iiameil Castor and i'ldlux, are ai)ove water and
bold to. When abce them give Cape Mocodaine a good Ijeiili, so as to avoid th(.' J>ull,
a dangerous sunken rock, that breaks in rough weather, and lies about half a mile from
LS'l the extremity of the cape. The black rocks arc i)artly dry, and from them ujjwards.
there is no danger, and the anchorage is good. N'essels entering this liarbor, nmst use
the utmost caution in steering between tlie ledges and nicks which are scattered about ;
fortunately they commonly sliow themselves whenever tlicre hajfpi'ns to be any st-a. tiiis
will render the entrance less difhcult ; but Iraving i)asscd the Black Ledge, wliicii is th';
innernvosf danger, the navigation will be perfectly safe, for the hn-gest fleet. The tide is
scarcely td be perceived, except when in the spring the ice and snow dissolves, and heavy
rains are prevalent, At the entrance of Country Harbor, it is high water on lull and
change at,8 h. 4Q nj. Tides rise from 6 to 9 feet.
Fishemuin^s Herrbor. — In entering tliis place between Cape Mocodame and the Black
X^edge, great care must always be taken, in order to avoid the Bull Rfick, which dries at
low watei'.'but is Covered at high water, and ( ly breaks when the weather is bad.
HARBOR ISLAND.— -The Islands on tne oast side of the entrance. Green Island,
Goose Island, and Harbor Island, or the William and Augustus Islands of Des Barres,
^re low and covered with scrubby trees. Within Harbor Island is excellent anchorage.
BICKEJRTON HARBOR, to the west of Fisherman's Harbor, is fit for small vessels
only., At two mi4es to the west of it is Holhn's Harbor, a ])lace of shelter for coasters,
and resorted to by the fishermen. Indian H-.rbnr is a shallow and unsafe creek, but has
good lands, well clothed with ])ine, maple, birch, and sjniiee. The next inlet, called
Wine Harbor, has a bar of sand, which is nearly dry. There are a lew, and but lew.
(settlers on these harbors.
ST. MARY'S RIVER,— The navigation of this river is impe.Iod by a bar of 12 feet
water, which extends across at the distance of a mile and three-quarters above (iunnini:
Point, the west point of the entrance. ]5elow the bar, towards the western side, is a mid-
dle ground, which appears uncovered in very low tides ; and, ai)ove the bar nearly in
fnid-ehannel, is a small rocky islet. The passage over the bar is on the eastern side ol
this islet. The tide, whicli is very rapid, marks out the channel: the latter is devious,
between mud-banks, extending from each shrire, and dry at low water. The depths up-
ward are from 24 to li-s feet. .Sailing in you shoulil proceed for 4 miles N. N. W. then
2 miles N. by W. and afterwards N. N. W. to the Fork, where it divides, the western
branch terminating in a brook : the eastern l)rancli continuing navigable a (piarter of a
mile further up to the rapids. The town of Sliert)rook is, at present, a small village a:
the head of th'; river, about three leagues from the sea.
WEDGE LSLE.— The islet called AVedge Isle, wliich lies at the distance of half a
league south from tlie S. W. ])oint of St. Mary's liiver, is remarkable, and serves as an
excellent glzide to the harbors in the neigliborhood. The side of this islet, towards the
main land, is abru])t, and its summit is ll.'j feet al)ove the sea. From its S. W. end ledges
stretch outward to the distance of half a mile ; and some sunken rocks, extending towards
it from the main, obstruct the passage nearly half way over. About 2- miles south from
the Wedge, is a (Ishing bank of 30 to 20 feet, the area of which is about 200 acres.
JEGOGAN HARBOR may be readily found, on the eastward by Wedge Island, and
on the westward by the bold and high land, called Redman's Head. The pa.ssage in is
easy, at the distance of a quarter of a mile from the Head, and anchorage good, in mud-
dy bottom. Three-quarters of a mile from it is a dry ledge, called the Shag.
LISCOMB HARBOR. — The entrance of this harbor, which is one of the best on the
coast, ia between Liscomb Island and the head-land on the west, called Smith or White
BLUNT S AMERIC.1 COAST PILOT.
105
Dod lioldiDi^f
or anil liar-
lavi t;ivM(' i\n
iiiiy si'Mled,
10 iiei^libor-
clioraao soli
sition in the
(■ islands af-
lu-ir sta:;cs ;
iidduck. cod,
:c. iSalinon
djle addition
l)arl)()r i;ene-
ic easiwiird.
liiiia inward.
I bf avoided.
'e water and
)id tin; J)idl.
a mile I'roni
hi upwards.
)r, must use
tcred about ;
my sea. this
whic'li is th-'
The tidn is
:s, and heavy
f on lull and
id the Black
liich dries at
5 bad.
roen [slan{i.
Des Barres.
anehoraee.
mall vessels
or coasters.
ek. but has
iidet. called
|uid but lew.
u- of ] 2 feet
e (Tuniiini:
le, is a mid-
ir nearly in
[tern side ol
is di'vious,
[depths up-
" W. then
llic western
luarter of a
II vil]a::c a:
b of half a
Jerves as an
lowards the
end ledges
|ng towards
5outh from
Icres.
Island, and
Issage in is
Id, in mud-
pest on the
or White
Point. From the S. E. end of Liscomb Island, a ledge, with breakers, extends to the
distance of three-quarters of a mile. Within and under the lee of the island is safe an-
chorage in from i:} toH fatlioms. On the N. K. of the island, a vessel c ught in a S. K.
gale may be sheltered by Redman's Head, already described, with the Head S. S. E. in
6 and 7 fathoms, on a bottom of clay.
Oil the west side, the ground from Smith Point is shoal to the distance of nearly a
mile S. S. K. and, at 2\ miles south from the point, is a rock, on which the ship Black
Prince was lost. It cor. fantly breaks, and is partly uncovered. The island-side is bold.
The first direction of the harbor is nearly north, then W. N. W. Opposite to the first
fish-stage, at half a mile from shore, is as good a bertli as can be desired, in 7 fathoms.
From this place the harl)or is navigable to the distance of four miles: it is, however, to
be observed, that there are two sunken rocks on the north side. At Green Bay (Liscomb
Harbor) spring tides rise 7"; feet, neap 4 V.
BAY OF ISIvAND.S.— The coast between Liscomb and Beaver Harbors, an extent
of () leagues, is denominated the Bay of Islands. Within this space the islets, rocks, and
ledges are innunierable : they frum passages in all directions, which have, in general, a
good depth of water. At the eastern part of this labyrinth, near Liscomb, is Marie-et-
Joseph, an excellent harbor fi>r the largest ships, but requires caution to enter. Nicom-
quirque is a small settlement in the same range, the inhabitants of which are an industri-
ous set of people. Newton-quaddy, next east of Beaver, is scarcely fit for any but fish-
ing and other small craft, as the channel in is rocky and narrow.
The White Islands, nearly halfway between the harbors of Beaver and Liscomb, appear
of a light stone-color, with green sununits. The latter are about GO feet above the level
of the sea. The isles are bold on the south side ; the passage between them saie ; and
there is good anchorage with them, in from 10 to 7 fathoms. From these the rocks and
ledges extend five or six miles from E. to E. N. E. they are bold to, and mostly dry, the
water within them being always smooth.
BEAVER HARBOR. — The Pumpkin and Beaver Islands are very rgfefirkable to vet-
sels sailing along the coast, particularly Pumpkin Island, which is a lofty axid dark barren
rock ; but they afford ii smooth and excellent shelter inside of them'dur|ng a southerly
j^ale. Southerland Island has, on its N. W. side, a deep and bold inleC where a vessel
may lie concealed and secure as in a dock. When in the offing,^the harbor is remarka-
ble on account of the small island which lies north of the Black Rock, having at its
southern end a red cliff, being the only one on this part of the coast; having entered the
harbor, you may choose your anchorage, according to the direction of the wind, the bot-
tom being generally mud. The basin on the west side is so steep to, that a small vessel
may lie afloat, lier side touching the beach.
The Harbor is too intricate to be recommended to a stranger.
SHEET HARBOR.— This harbor is nearly half-way between Country Harbor and
Halifax. It is dangerous for vessels to approach in thick weather. The narrow channel
between Sober Island and the main, affords secure anchorage on a bottom of mud.
Without the harbor are several ledges, which show themselves, excepting the outer one,
called by the fishermen, Yankee-jack, and which, when the sea is rmooth, is very dan.jer-
ous. It has been asserted, that a rocky shoal lies half a mile to the south of the Yankee,
but its position has not been ascertained.
Within the entrance is a rock, two feet under water, which will be avoided by keeping
the Sb et Rock open of the island next within it, on the eastern side. In sailing or turn..
ing up the harbor, give the sides a very moderate berth, and you will have from 11 to 5
fathoms, good holding ground.
The flood at the entrance of Sheet Harbor sets S. S. W. about one mile an hour. High
water, full and change, at 8h. 50 m. Tides rise 7 feet.
MUSHABOON, to the westward of Sheet Harbor, is a small bay, open to the S. E,
which affords shelter at its head only, in from 7 to 5 fathoms, nmddy bottom. It is con-
nected to Sheet Harbor by a clear, deep, and bold passage, between an island and the
main land, not having a shoal or obstruction in it. Here you may lash your vessel to the
trees, and, lying in 5 fathoms, soft bottom, with the side touching the clifl" be perfectly
sheltered from al) winds. This place is uninhabited, the land being incapable of cultiva-
tion. In going through the passage to Sheet Harbor you uiust guard against a sunken
rock at its uu)uth, which, from the smoothness of the water, seldom shows its position ;
this rock lies 400 yards off Banbury Islands, and may easily be cleared by keeping the
Sheet Rock open of the island.
SPRY HARBOR has on each side the entrance, a high, rocky, barren cape, distin-
guishable at a long distance. When sailing in you will perceive the land in the centre
of the harbor, appearing in three distinct hills ; keep the valley between the two eastern-
most on with the Bald Eocks, which will lead you between Mad Moll Reef and Malo-
14
iAMRM
mtmm'^''
106
BLl'iNT's AMCKK'AN COAST I'II,(»T.
ney Rock ; you mny now stpei- in lor tin; !intlior:n;c, ;it tlic western head of the liarbor.
where a fleet maybe land-locked in a muddy bottom.
This harbor is open to S. K. and K. S.E. winds. At the entrance, the flood-tide
t iefs in at about one mile an hour. The tide, at the entrance of Spry Harbor, sets in
I with the velocity of about one miic! an hour.
DEANE, or rUPE'S tlARJJOK, on the western side of Gerard's Tsles above-men-
tioned, has a ledge at its entrance, forminsj an oi)tuse angle at the two points, three-
fourths of a mile from eacn, and from which a shoal extends to the southward half a
mile. It may be passed on either side : l)ut, on the west, caie nuist be taken to avoid
a shoal extending from the outer Tangier Island. 'JMie best shelter is under the smaller
island on the eastern side, where there are from 8 to b fathoms, with bottoni of blue clay,
mud and sand.
TANGIER HARBOR, next to Deane or Popes, is formed by craggy barren islands,
which secure vessels from all winds. At about two m.les from its mouth v.i a ledge that
dries at low water. The anchorage is under the eastern shore, above Fisher's Nose, in
6 to 4 fathoms, stift' mud. Here are sonie good tracts of pasture land, and the few in-
habitants are occupied in the fishing and coasting trade.
SHOAL BAY is the Saunders Harl)or of Des Barres. This bay has a good depth
of water and excellent anchorage, on fine whit<! sand and strong mud. The latter is to
the northward of the island now called Charles Island, and vessels lie in it, land-locked,
in 7 fathoms. Oil' the mouth of the harbor is a rock, that always breaks; but it is bold
r to, and may be passed on either side. Sonu^ parts of the harbor will admit large ships to
k lie afloat, along side the shore, over a bottom of black mud. Supplies of stock, 6cc. may
; 1m) obtained from the inhabitants of this pince.
''SHIP HARBOR is easy and safe to enter, having good anchorage in every part, the
bottom being a tough clay of bluish color; it leads to Charles's River, above the nar-
rows of which a fleet of the largest ships may lie alongside of each other, without the
..smallest motior. In tViis harbor, and on the isles about it, are near twenty families, who
.keep small stocks of cattle, &c. The entrance, called by Des Barres Knowles' Harbor,
is fleep and bold : it lies between two islands, of which the eastern i^ Brier's Island, on
the western part of which is a lighthouse. A white cliff, which may be seen for a con-
1 ftderable distance in the otBng, is a good mark for the harbor : at first it resembles a ship
'^^der sail) but oi* approaching seems more like a schooner's top-sail. Brier's Island,
* -b40^ mentioned, Is a low rugged island, and ledges partly dry, extend from it three-
fourths of a mile to the eastward : avoiding these when entering this way, you may range
fdpng the western island, and come to an anchor under its north point, in 6 or 7 fathoms, the
bottom of mud. Ship Harbor, proper, commences about 7 nules to the N. W. of Brier's
Island, at a beach in the western shore, which has 6 fathoms close to its side ; its entrance
ig one third of a mile broad, widening as you ascend it: above Green Island are some
thoals and ledges, but the anchorages below them are capacious and good. Spars, stock,
water, and firewood may be obtained here.
OWL'S HEAD, or KEPPEL HARBOR, which is next to the west of the harbor
last described, although smaller than many other harbors on the coast, has suflficieut space
for a fleet. It may be known, at a distance, by Owls Head, on the western side, which
appears round, abrupt and very remarkable. The neighboring coast and isles are rugged
and barren, but the harbor has a few settlers. The entrance is of sufficient breadth to
allow a large ship to turn in it ; and, within the harbor, shipping lie land-locked, when
in 6 and 7 fathoms, with a bottom of mud. In taking a berth, you will be guided by the
■ direction of the wind; as, with a S. W. gale the western anchorage is to be preferred,
and the eastern with a S. E. The tide sets into this harbor from the S. W. at the rate
of one mile an hour.
LITTLE HARBOk is somewhat to the westward of Owl's Head Harbor, and is a
place of safety for small vessels ; but its entrance is intricate, and requires a good know-
ledge of the passages leading to it, in order to enable a vessel to enter.
JEDORE HARBOR. — In the offing at the distance of two leagues of^' the land, the
body of the flood sets in S. W. by S. at the rate of half a mile an hour. From the ap-
pearance of this harbor on the Charts, it might be presumed that it is spacious and com-
modious; but on examination, it will be found to be really diflerent. The entrance is
unsafe and intricate ; a shoal of oidy 11 feet lies at its nu)uth ; the channel within is nar-
row and winding, and there are extensive mud flats, covered at high water, and uncovered
with the ebb : hence a stranger can enter with safety only at low water, the channel be-
ing then clearly in sight, and the water sufficient for large ships. The best anchorage is
abreast of the sand-beach, two miles within the entrance, in from 9 to 6 fathoms, on a
bottom of stiff mud. Two and a half miles above the beach the harbor divides ; one
branch to the larboard, is navigable nearly to its extremity, and has several sunken rocks
on it ; while to the starboard is a large space with a clear bottom, and from 3 to 5 fathoms.
On the!
their el
Thef
deplors
WitJ
ands, bl
cessity
Clanib I
THH
frigate'J
isle calll
face. '
end of
of .fedc
An aj
and upt
end of
This shI
with thf
is also
only 5 f(
the Brie
to show
search f
It is h
tide rise
and the
POL
the Poll
during
.IE DO
should b
Charts, a
Behcet
there are
height, ri
of the eai
called Tl
to be dea
it has o(
The clilTl
ward. 1
with the
cases of r
Island, ai
In beat
the souni
says, " w
saw an i<
Jedore, a
had a thi
Owl's H«
of red.
to the we
stones, tl
of tlie harbor,
, thi- flood-tide
Harbor, Hcts in
des al)ov«;-meii-
) poiiitH, three-
uthward half a
' taiicn to avoid
!ider the smaller
)ni of blue clay,
! barren islands,
1 1:4 a ledge that
is'ier's Nose, in
and the few in-
is a p;ood depth
The latter is to
it, land-locked,
s; but it is bold
lit large ships to
stock, &c. may
I every part, the
, above the oar-
er, without the
y famihes, who
lowles' Harbor,
lier's Island, on
seen for a con-
esembles a ship
Brier's Island,
from it three-
you may range
r 7 fathoms, the
W. of Brier's
its entrance
and are some
Spars, stock,
of the harbor
ufRcieut space
n side, whicli
es are rugged
ent breadth to
locked, when
guided by the
be preferred,
W. at the rate
arbor, and is a
a good know-
the land, the
From the ap-
ious and com-
le entrance is
within isnar-
ind uncovered
I channel be-
anchorage is
fathoms, on a
divides; one
sunken rocks
to 6 fathoms.
bliint's amkhk an coaht pilot.
107
On the eastern ■'hore are Oyster PonrI and Navy F'ool, two deep iidets, but choaked at
their entrance by a bed of rocks; the river terminates with a rapid.
The lands at the head of the harbor are stony, but tolerably good ; the rest barren and
depl(>ral)le.
Without the entrance, on the eastern side, are two isles, called Roger and Barren Isl-
ands, between and within which tlie passages aie good, and afford shelter in case of ne-
cessity ; from these the land runs nearly K. N. E. and tonus a deep inlet, called Clam or
Clantb Bay.
THK BRKJ ROrK.— This is a very dangerous rock of .T feet, about the size of a
frigate's long boat; il lies S. K. i E. from .lerlore Head, and S. W. two miles from the
isle called Long Island. The weed on the top of it may (rcquently be seen at the sur-
face. The m. rks for this rock are a house and l)arn in (.'lam Hay, just open of the east
end of Long Island, bearing N. 5° E. anil the house on Jedore Head open to the N. E.
of .Jedore Rock.
An account is given of a rocky shoal over which a vessel passed in 8 fathoms water,
and upon which were taken the following iiearings : .ledore I lead N. N. W. \ W. ; west
end of Long Island N. E. by N.: and .ledore Outer Ledge or Brig Rock, E. by S.
This shoal may have less water upon it in other parts, but as these hearings do not agree
with the chart, we ap|)rehend there must be some error in its exact position. Mention
is also made of a rock, bearing from .ledore Head S. 38° E. distant 6 miles; this has
only a feet over it, and •,*-' fathoms close within and without it. This is supposed to be
the Brig Rock, but if so, the bearings are not correct. These two notices are inserted
to show that some dangers exist hereabout, and will be sufiicient to warn the mariner to
search for and cautiously avoid them.
It is high water at .ledore Head full and change at 20 minutes after 8 o'clock, and the
tide rises from 6 to 9 feet. At Owl's Head, it is high water at 30 minutes after 8 o'clock, .
and the tide rises from .5 to 7 feet.
POLLUCK SHOAL. — At about nine miles south from .ledore Head is a reef, called
the Polluck Shoal; its area is about one acre, having a depth of 24 f^$t over it; and^
during a swell, the sea breaks on it with great violence. " *>^- .
.f EDORE LEDCtES.— Those advancing i)etween the Brig Rock and Polluck Shod,
should be cautious in approaching any of the .ledore Ledges : they are laid down on the
Charts, and said to extend I'roni five to nine miles from the mouth of the harbor.
Between Jedore and Hulifar, there are no harbors of any consideration for shipping, but
there are numerous settlements. The land in this extent is, in general, of moderate
height, rising gradually from the shore. Red and precipitous cliffs, the characteristic
of the eastern coast, may be seen from seven to nine miles off. The best harbor is thai
called Three Fathoms Ilarbor. When you are within this harbor the passage will be found
to be clear between banks of soft mud. But it is only fit for schooners and sloops, although
it has occasionally been visited by large vessels. The anchorage is tough blue clay.
The cliffs are composed of bright red earth, remarkable for vessels coming from the east-
ward. This harbor lies immediately to the east of an islet called Shut-in-Island ; and,
with the wind on shore, is difficult and dangerous ; so that it is to be attempted only in
cases of real distress. The channel lies two-thirds over to the northward from Shut-in-
Island, and turns short round the starboard point to the westward.
In beating to windward, ships may stand to within a mile and a half of the shore,
the soundings being tolerably regular, from 20 to 12 and 8 fathoms. Captain Aldridge
says, "we made the land to the windward of Jedore Ledges, which bore E. S. E. and
saw an island, appearing white along the bottom ; between this and another island lay
Jedore, a large rock, to the eastward; the island was quite white round the bottom, and
had a thick green wood at top; to the westward of the westernmost of these islands, is
Owl's Head ; a large high bluff land, the western part of it is a darkish white, with a patch
of red. A little to the eastward of this red patch are two houses, situated in Clamb Bay,
to the west of which is a sandy beach. In coming from the bank we had 45 fathoms,
stones, then 37, 39 and 40 fathoms, mud and small pebbles."
HALIFAX TO CAPE SABLE.
GENERAL REMARKS. — Vessels coining from the eastward, and bound for the
harbor of Halifax, should pay particular attention to their soundings, especially when they
consider themselves in the neighborhood of Sable Island ; which island and its sur-
rounding banks we shall hereafter describe ; it will therefore only be necessary at present
to remark, that the island is low, and appears like small sand hillocks ; that, in summer,
it frequently is enveloped in a fog, but you may always discover your proximity to it, by
your soundings ; and tliat on its N. E. and N. W. sides are dangerous bars ; you will
have, except on these sides, 2 fathoms, 2 cables' length off, and your depth will increase
rm TswwuijP'"*'-"-' '-'■
y
\-
^
108
BLUIVT*H AMKRICAN COAST PILOT.
in proportion to the distance you arf from it, at a general rate of about 2 fathoms for
every mile, until you are more than 'JO miles from it. .Si>;nals are placed on the island,
and also a gun to answer such as may he heard from vessels in dii^treMs, or in thick weather,
which have already saved from shipwreck a numlier of vessels.
In making land more to the south-westward, and about Cape Sable, you must be par-
ticularly careful to avoid *Seal Island Kocks and the Hra/.il Kock. Te the westward of
Great Seal Island the soundings are very irregular for upwards of 'JO miles, at which dis-
tance are 45 fathoms, gravel and stones. Indeed the soundings along Nova Scotia from
Cape Canso to Cape Sable, partake of the same irregularity, from J6 to 50 fathoms,
therefore you should not come nearer the land than H5 fathoms, unless you are well assur-
ed of the exact |)art you are in, lor otherwise, endeavoring to enter llalilax, you may be
driven into Malione or Mecklenburgh Hays, and be caught by S. K. winds. The
weather is generally foggy 4 or (i leagju's offshore, both in spring and summer; but it
becomes clearer us you get nearer the coast, and with the wind olf tlie land it will be per-
fectly clear.
From one to three leagues out to the seaward, rnacker'cl, halibut, rays, haddock, and cod
are found in plenty ; nnci at the entrance to the harbors and rivers, salmon is taken from
April to August ; the bays abound with herrings in June and July, and with torn-cod
all the year round.
Mariners may always know their approach to, and arrival into, soundings by the in-
creasing coldness of the water.
HALIFAX, the ca])ital of Nova Scotia, is large enough to accommodate any quan-
tity of shipping in perfect safety. Its direction lies nearly N. and S. being about IG
miles in length, and terminates in Bedford IJasin, which is an extensive sheet of water, con-
taining 10 squire miles of safe anchorage. The town is situated on the declivity of a
peninsula at the western side of the harbor, about 10 miles from its entrance.
HALIFAX HARBOR. — In approaching the harbor of Halifax, you will perceive
the coast about its environs, jjarticularly to the southward, to be rairged and rocky, with
-|)Btbbes of withered wood scattered about, but the land is rather low in general, and not
'VtMbl4^' 20 miles oft, except from the (|uarter deck of a 74 ; the high mountains of Le
Have ind Aspotogon excepted* which may be seen !) leagues oil". When Aspotogon
HilU, which hay^ ja long level appearance, bear north, and you are 6 leagues distant, au
\^. N; E. coursel^U carry you to Sambro lightliouse; this stands on Sainbro Island, and
il^ndered remarkable by being a high tower, elevated above the sea JIO feet ; there are
two &4 pounders placed on the island, under the direction of a small party of artillery
men ; thtose ^tire fired on the approach of vessels, and contribute much to the mariner's
safety by warning him oft' the adjacent breakers. Sambro Island and lighthouse lies on
the S. Wi side of the entrance to the harbor. In standing in for the land you may
kno\. on which side of the harbour you are by a remarkable diff'erence that takes place
immediately from its' mouth in the color of the shores; which, if red, denotes you are
to the jastward, and if white, to the westward of it. S. by E. distant 'I full miles from the
lighthouse lies the Henercy Rock, with only 3 feet water over it ; and E. N. E. distant
one mile from the Henercy, lies the Lockwood, of I'J feet: these appear to be but little
known, although they are both so very dangerous.
THE LEDGES. — About two miles to the westward are the Western Ledges ; these
are the Bull, the Horses, and the S. W. or Outer Rock; the Bull is the westernmost
and nearest to the land : this is a rock above water, lying about two thirds of a mile S.
E. by E. ft-om Pendant Point, the lighthouse bearing from it E. 7° S. The Horses are
about a mile to the south-eastward of the Bull, the lightliouse bearing E. by fjf. distant
one mile and three-quarters; and the S. W. Rock or Ledge lies with the lighthouse
bearing E. by N. distant one mile and a half; to avoid these, constant caution will be
requisite, though they are surrounded by deep water ; the channel between the Bull and
the main having 10 fathoms water, and the passage clear; between the Horses and the
Bull are 16 fathoms, and no intermediate danger ; and between the Horses and the S.
W. Rock there are 20 fathoms.
The Eastern Ledges are the Sisters or Black Rocks ; these lie nearly E. by S. from
the lighthouse, distant two-thirds of a mile. There is also the Bell Rock, lying further
in, and about a quarter of a mile from the land, the extremity of Chebucto Head bearing
N. by E. ^ E. distant three-quarters of a mile. In advancing up the harbor you will
meet with several other rocks, as ilie Rock Head, which lies with Chebucto Head S. W.
by W. distant 2t miles, and the Devil's Island, N. E. nV E. about the same distance ; the
Thrum Cap, which extends from the south end of Mac Nab's of Cornwallis's Island ;
* On Seal Island a Lighthouse is erected, showing a fixed light. From Cape Sable it bears W.
N. W, \ W. dis'ant 16 miles.
t 2 fathoms (ot
'a\ on (he Liliuid,
n thk'k weiitlicr,
ou iiniHl be piir-
the westwjinl of
?8, at which <h.H-
ova Scotin from
'i to 50 fnthoiiis,
J are well assur-
ifax, you iiiiiv l)»!
•]. wiinls. The
suniiiit'r ; but it
ml it will be pcr-
a(l(K»ck, atiil cotl
II is taUcii from
u\ with toin-cod
dings by the in-
odatc any quan-
bein^ about IG
;et of water, coo-
lie declivity of a
nice.
)U will perceive
and rocky, witli
ireneral, and not
lountains of Le
'hen Aspotogon
gues distant, nu
inbro Island, and
J feet ; there are
)arty of artillery
to the mariner's
;hthouse lies on
land you may
that takes place
lenotes you are
II njiles from the
N. E. distant
rto be but little
Ledjjes ; these
le westernmost
ds of a mile S.
'he Horses are
by }j. distant
the lighthouse
caution will be
en the Bull and
orses and the
ses and the S.
E. by S. from
, lyiuii further
Head bearing
arbor you will
0 Head S. W.
distance ; the
fallis's Island ;
ible it bears W.
IILI'M'.-* AMKKUA.N (OAST IMl.OT.
109
the I/ichfield, on the weKtern side of the harbor, having only Ifi feet w 'trr over it; and
the .Mars |{o(k, lying also on tin- wcsicrn side, INtint Sandwich lienrmg north disliiiit
half a mile, anil nearly in a line with it anil the west side of (leorge's island; all tlies(>
are distinguished by buoys and (lags being placed upon them. 'There Ls also a reef,
called the Horse Shoe, which runs out from Manger's Heacli on the west side of Mae
Nab's Island; this is dangerous and must carefully be avoided. On Maimer's Heacli is
a'l'ower. called .'^lierbrook Tower, on which is a lii;lithonse. elevated oH feet above the
level of the sea, erei ted for the |Mirpose ol' guiding vessels up the harbor.
When abrenst of Cliebncto Head, or when Sanibi Light bears W. S. W. the light
on Manger's Heaeli should never be brought to the westward of north. By keeping the
light from North to N. by K. will lead clear of the 'riiriim Cap .Shoal. Tliis lighthouse
bears from the Thrum Cap buoy N. ,\ W. two miles and a hall'.
Dire.rtion» for iihvrhruol; Tower Ligltiliouse.
Vessels coming from the eastward, must keep Sambro Light ojien to the southward of
Cliebncto Head, until the liglii opens on Manger's Beach, which will then bear N. }i W.
when they will be to the westward of Tliiiiiii Cap .Shoals, and may shape a course up
the harbor, always keeping the light on the beach open, and on the starboard bow.
Vessels coming from the westward will see the light w hen they are as far to the east-
ward as Chebucto Head; by keepiiij; it open and on the starboard bow, it will lead them
u|) to the beach.
The light on .SherbrooU Tower appears of a red color, which distinguishes it from any
otluT on the coast. ,.
High water, Halifax Dock-Yard, 8 o'clock ; spring-tides rise from 6^ to 9 feet. High J,-.
water at .Sambro Isle Hli. 15ni; spring-tides rise from .') to 7 feet. ' t * -* .
Half way between Mauger's Beach and (ieorge's Iidand, is a shoal, on the oppilbsite
side, extending to the S. E. from Point I'lcasant nearly one third ol tn^ channel over,
and having a buoy at its extremity ; the thwart mark lor this buoy is a littje islet at- the
entrance of the N. W. arm. on with a remarkable stone upon the hill, appiearing ^e a
coach-box, and bearing W. S. W. Between I'oint Pleasant .Shoal and Mauger't Beach,
is a middle ground of 4.^ and 5 fathoms, sometimes pointnl out by a^buoy: tbU middle
ground extends north and south a (able's length, and is about .'30 fjUBjBns broad; as-ydtu
fall 0(1" to the eastward of it there will be found I'rom 7 to 10 fatholtns wateft muddy bot-
tom ; while on the -vest side there are from 10 to 14 fathoms, coarse rocky soundings.
REID'.S ROCK has 12 leet water over it, and lies in shore, about mid-way between
Point Pleasant and Halifax : the thwart mark for this danger is a farm houae in the wood,
over a black rock on the shore, bearing W. by .S. and opposite to Reid's Rock is a bacj
on a spit extending from the N. \V. end of Mac Nab's Island.
MAC NAB'S ISLAND lies on the eastern side of the channel, and is nearly three
miles in IcuL'th and one in breadth; there is a small island to the eastward of it, called
Carroll's Island ; boats can pass this way or between it and the Devil's Island shore, in
what is commonly called the S. K. Passage, but the channel is too .shallow for shipping,
and it is further obstructed by a bar of sand to the southward, over which is only 8 feet
water. Mac Nab's Cove has good anchorage in t'rom 'J to 4 fathomS,' muddy ground ;
the best situation is in 7 (utlioms, with Mauger's Beach and Sandwich Point locked ;
George's Tower touching Ives's Poiiit
Dartmouth is a settlement on the eastern side of the harboi', opposite Halifax. .
To Sail for Hail far Harbor. — Having made the li:.'ht!ionse, and coming from the
westward at night, witha westerly wind, the light being 7 or H miles oH", steer E. N.E.or E.
by N. until you have passed the S. \V. Ledges, and the iisihthouse bears north, then run
on N. E. or N. E. by N. until yon bring it to bear N. W. which being done, take a N.
N. E. or N. E. by N. course, until you bring it W. N W. you will then, agreeably to
the wind, haul up N. or N. by E. for fJliebucto Head, avoiding the Bell Rock. Che-
bucto Head is bold to within half a mile from the shore ; run on north, along the west
shore for Sandwich Point, which also is bold : thus you will safely pass the Lichfield
Rock, leaving it on your larboard side ; this rock has a buoy placed on its eastern end,
a mile northward of which is the Mars Rock, whose situation is pointed out by another
buoy, which must al.so be left to the larboard. When abreast of Sandwich Point get as
near Middle Channel as you can, for on the opposite side is the Horse .Shoe, a danger-
ous shelf, which stretches out from Mauger's Beach; steer on Mid-Channel between
Mauger's Beach and the Horse Shoe, and having passed the latter, edge over towards
Mac Nab's Island. Midway between the Island and Point Pleasant Shoals, on the ex-
tremity of which is a buoy, and rather more than ^ a mile further, on the same side, is
Reid's Rock, whose position is also denoted by another buoy : the.se are all to l.-e left ou
the larboard side. On the st''vboard, or opposite side, is a red buoy placed upoT
{
^
110
niJi\TM /\Mi;itir.\i\ roAsr imi.ot.
S|>it, which I'ttns oft' IM;ic Nah's Islanrl ; you will Nitil nn Itctwrrti thr**** two liiftor hiiovn,
Hiiil hiivinn piisscil thi" Kn-I, Mlccr (hit-ctly iiortli (or (itM»ri;t''s Ishirid, which you iiutv
piiMH on either Midc anil run ii|) Cor, aeul ahrcai^t o(, the town (»(' llahl'iix, where yon will
find atichoraue in <) and HI lalhonis, innddy ground ; two ralih-s' h>nK(h east ofthe moor-
int{ liiioys, or near cinxiuh to tlie wliarvcs to throw yonr haw.ser on Nhnre. 'I'here in a
middle ground heiwern MaiiKcr'.s iieach and I'oiiit IMcasant Slioal, which Moinetiirien
has a buoy upon it, hut no less than 5 (athoins han yet been found n|)on it.
"Thn ^reat dilliculty <d' making ilalit'ax I'roni the eastward, particularly in thn wintrr
snaNnii, is that the winds are ^'etu'rally Croin the W. S. \V. to N. W. and blow so haid ai
to reduce a ship to very low canvass, if Hot to bare judes : but sliould the wiiul coiiie to
tlie eastward, it is invariably atteufk'd with such lliicL weather, as to prevent an observa-
tion, or seeiui: any f;reat distance; and conseipicnily renders it impruilent to run on a
lee shore under siuh cirruiustances, and more particularly in tiu^ winter tinu*, when the
easterly winds are attended with sleet and snow, which lodi{e about the masts, sails, rij;-
^inn, and every |)art of tin- shi|), bccomin'j; a solid body of ice so soon as the wind shifts
round to the N. W. which it does suddcidy from the eastward. What adds considerably
to the al)ove dithcidty is, havini; bee!i several <biys without an observati(ui, and subject to
a current, which sometimes rims stroni» to the southward ; you may have the Hay of
Fundy open, ami be swejH into it by the strons; indrauj^lit wliicii prevails when the wind
has been any time iVom the sf)utli" ■inl or eastward.
"From the above circumstances, 1 would recommencl that ships boimd to Ifalifax in
the winter, should shape a southerly course, ami run down their lonmtude in latitude
from .'IS" to 3()°, in which parallel they will juake the prmcii)al part of tlieir passajje in a
temperate climate, until they approach the coast of America, when they will be met bv
the westerly or even north-west winds, which will enable them (having got soundings, on
St. George's Bank,) to Mi.ike their ( Durse j^ood alon;:; shore, and with a free wind and
clear weather, cross the iJay (d' I'uiidy, with coidi(len( e of their situation ; then, so soon
S». they have shut in the Bay, keep the shore on board the whole way to Halifax Light-
(9^rve in coming from the eastward with an easterly wind, the Thrum Cap shoals
must b^tj^rticularly avoided ; a red buoy, as before imticed, now marks their extremity,
jj^nd to go clear of them you should bring the easternmost land in sight, a ship's lengtli
„'^thc southward of Devil's Island, bearing K. N. K. nearly, and steer in W, or W. by
S. M best suits the distance you are from the island, and according to the wind and
situation; with respect to the shoals, you may pursue a West, N. W. or W. N. W.
course, until George's Islaiul comes a sail's breadth open to the westward of Mac Nab's
Island; then stand up for Sandwich I'oint, or the fort, until St. Paul's Steeple in Hali-
fax is open of Brenton House ; keep this mark on, and you will go in the fair way, clear-
ing Point Pleasant Shoals and Mauger's Beach; then steer on as before directed.
The long mark for Halifax Harbor from abreast of Chebiicto Head, and steering in
north or N. A W. is the middle cf tlnee hills, over Dartmouth village, having some trees
upon it, in a line with the N. W. end of (ieorgc's Island ; tins will lead clear of the dan-
jfers on both sides, and over the Middle Ground, in from 6 to 8 fathoms and up to
George's Island.
The marks for the Lichfield Rock are the Chmnel between the Devil's Island and the
Main open, bearing E. N. E. aiul (George's Island open to the eastward of Sandwich
Point; over this rock are only lb feet.
The marks for the buoy at the extremity of Point Pleasant Spit, is a small island at
tlie entrance of the N. W. arm, on with the .';tonc on the hill, bearing W. S. W. The
marks which clear Point Pleasant shoals will also clear the Reid Rock ; its thwart mark
is a farm-house in the wood, over a black rock on the shore, bearing west by south.
In approaching from the westward, round the lighthouse, at the distance of a short
league. To avoid the sunken rocks which lie to the southward, when the light bears
N. W. by N. haul ir N. by W. The tlag-staves on Citadel Hill above the town are
distinguishable at a c msiderable distance ; by keeping them open of Sandwich Point,
you are led clear of tiie Bell, Lichfield, and Mar's Rocks, on the west side ; and the
Rock Head and Tlinun Cap to the east. When arrived at Sandwich Point, keep Che-
liucto Head in sight, by not allowing it to he shut in ; this plain mark will lead in the fair
■way home to George's Island ; leaving Poiiu Pleasant shoals on the left, and Mac Nab's
fihoals on the right, round George's Island on either side, and anchor any where in 6, 10,
or 13 fathoms, muddy ground ; from George's Island to the entrance of Sackville River
there is not a single obstniction. Men of war commonly anchor off the naval yard,
which a stranger will distinguish by the masting sheers ; merchant vessels discharge
their cargoes, and load alongside the wharves.
Catch Harbor, fit only for small vessels, lies to the westward of Chcbucto Head ; it has
a bar across with breakers, and only 9 feet water; within it are 3 and 3^ fathoms; there
two lattor hnoyw,
which vol! luiiv
, wh«*r»' Vfiu will
I'ast (iCthf moor-
tre. Then- In a
hich Hoinetiini'fi
I it.
ly ill Iho winfrr
lilow NO h)ii(i ill
lio wind roiiic to
vent an ohMPiva-
I'lit to run on a
time, when the
masts, sails, rii;-
s ihf wind shili.s
Ids corisidcralily
II. and suhjt'ct to
avf the IJay ol
9 when the wind
1(1 to ITnlifax in
itiuh> in hitiliidf
ifiir iiassafic in a
will h(« met hy
)t soundings, on
a free wind and
1 ; then, .so soon
Halifax Light*
rum Cap shoals
their extremity,
, a ship's ienmh
ill W, or W.' by
) the wind and
or W. N. W.
rl of Mac Nab's
teeple in llali-
air way, clear-
irected.
ind steering in
ing; some trees
ar of the dan-
>m9 and up to
sland and the
of Sandwich
small island at
S. W. The
ts thwart mark
by south.
ice of a short
ic light bears
the town are
ndwich Point,
dde ; and the
nt, keep Che-
lead in the fair
nd Mac Nab's
here in 6, 10,
ackville River
naval yard,
iels discharge
Head ; it has
thorns; there
ni.rNT S AMI.tlMA.X <'(>\MT PILOT.
Ill
tt a fine run of fresh wafer at the li<ad of the harbor. I lerrim; ( 'nve is about 10(1 fatlionm
wide at the eniriince, and bold on both sides, with 7, 5, and t filhoms up to the elbow
thai forms the Inner ( 'ovt-. wiibiii which small vessels lie perfectly sheltered in 7 and "J
feel, soft mild, the sides being uneentiri' body of ro( k.
KK.MAKKS. — Leaving llalilix, and sailing Westward, you will find the shores to be
sleep, and appear tVoiii seaward bioki-n and rocky, with whitish clilfs ; the high lands of
Aspotogon and l^e Have, before mentioned, are coiispiciioiiN and remarkable; to the
westward the rocks about llie land appc.ii black, with reddish banks of earth. I.e Have
appears babl or barren ;it the top. with red earthy hillocks iindi-r it, and between ( 'apn
Le Have and Port Medway or .lackson, arc some hummocks inland, the coast to the
seaward being level and U>\y, and the shores marked with white rocks, with low barren
points; (rom thence to Shelbiirne and Koseway it is wooily. Near Port Latoiir are
several barren places, and thencu tu Cape Muble the land is low, with white sandy dilfti,
particularly visible at sea.
SAMHKO HAUHOK is a mile and tlnee-cjuarters N. N. W. from the lighthouse;
ort' its entrance is the Mull Rock ; there are also twit other rocks between ; the best chan-
ni'l into the harbor is between Pi-nnant Point and the Hull, but vessels iVoin the east-
ward may run up between .Samitro Island and the Inner Kock ; you are to leave the Isle
nl .Man to the larboard in entering; the am lioiage is within the island, on a muddy bot-
tom, with ;J fathoms water.
The strait which connects the harbor with Londy IJasin is exceeding narrow, and haa
only 2 fathoms wiiter. This place is generally the resml of coasters in bad weatlier.
The passage between the rocks and ledges that lie to the soutliward of Sambro Harbor,
may olteiitimes conduce to the safety of vessels, that make the land by mistake so fer to
the westward of the light as lobe unable to clear the dangers soiitliwaiil of it, but should
be attempted only in cases (d emergency ; the depth ol water is sulficient for the largest
ships, but great prudence is retpiired.
TKNN.VNT IL\R|{()R is situated round the point to the westward of Port Sambro,
has a fair channel leading in between Teunant (ireal Head and Island, with good and
secure anchorage, particub-rly above the islands, in G or 8 fathonn; 4t is extensive and
safe in bad weatlier, and the dangers are all visible.
TENNANT'S BAY is well sheltered above Macworth Point, a;id Aere is anchorage
in 9 fathoms on a bottom of tough blue day; the passage in lies^efween the rocks of
Point Maev.orth and the white rocks. There is also a safe (lassago between Cape Ten-
nant and Hervey Island, with anchorage in from f) to rt fathoms. Whei^ entering, the
land presents to the eye of a stranger, the rudest features of nature, but it is extensive
and safe, and in bad weather the dangers all show themselves. The tides rise 8 feet, and
it is high water at three-cjnarters after 7.
PROSPECT HARHOR lies about .3 miles to the N. W. of Cape Prospect, which
forms the west side of iJristol Hay ; and its entrance is encumbered with a cluster of
islands which form the western side of Bristol Bay : at the back of these islands is a
considerable inlet, called by ])es Barres, Parker's River, but little frequented. Prospect
Harbor, wears, at its entrance, a rugged broken ajipearance, but it is safe, commodious,
and extensive ; and in rough weather the dangers mostly show themselves. Vessels
coming from the eastward and rounding Cape Prospect, must beware of ft: rock with 17
feet over it ; it lies south about one-third of a mile (rom the Cape ; go not between it and
the Cape, but proceed on its southern side in 20 and 21 fathoms water, and by keeping
more than half a mile from the land you will steer quite clear of danger, and may sail
boldly up its eastern channel between Prospect and Betsey's Islands ; having passed
these the channel narrows ; the western passage is between Hobson's Nose and Dorman'a
Rock ; there is good anchorage for large shijis above Pyramid Island, and also for small
vessels, within Betsey's Island, in 4\ fathoms, blue stiff clay. At the entrance to this
harbor, depths are very irregular, and there is a rock, over which the seabrea ks, hav-
ing .3 fathoms water over it, and lying 2 cables' lengths to the eastward of Dorman'a
Rock. There are some residents on the western side of the bay.
LEITH HARBOR.— This lies about 2l miles toMhe north-westward of Prospect
Harbor, and here are situated the inlets called Shag and Blind Bays, both possession
excellent anchorages. At its entrance lies the Hog, a sunken rock, having 6 feet water
over it, and bearing E. S. E. about one mile and a half from Taylor's Island. In fair
weather the Hog Rock may readily be perceived by a constant ripple over it, and in bad
weather, with an on-shore wind, it will be distinguished by the breakers ; there are good
channels on both its sides, but the eastern one is always to be preferred on account of the
ledge which exti'ids E. S. E. about half a mile towards it from Taylor's Island.
DOVER PORT lies at the western side of the entrance to Blind Bay, and is chiefly
formed by Taylor's and the adjacent islands; this is the Port Durham of former charts,
and alfords safe and good anchorage ; the eastern passage is the best, and in sailing in you
■■P
'W.HWBjP"- - "
112
BM .\T S AMKUICA.N (O.VST PIl-OT.
must pive the reef that stiPtclies ofl' the east en(J of Taylor's Island asu(Ti('ient berth,
anchoiiiin; within the hody of the largest island in 7, H. !), or 10 f'atiiDnis, muddy hoftoin.
Tilt! ueatern entrance has some sunken roeks in it, and the water is in some places but
siiaildw.
JJeiween the Ir.irljors of Halifax and Dover tiie shores are craf^gy, broken, and barren,
sleep to, iron-i)ound, and destitute of trees; but the creeks and inlets abound with fish, and
great {piantities of cod, herrings, and mackerel, are caught and cured here for the mar-
kets.
MARtJARET'S RAY. — '{'he entrance to thisbay is to the westward of Taylor's Island
about one league ; the bay itself is full '2b miles in circumference, in length nine miles,
and in breadth, from Peggy's Point to Owl's Head, about two miles; here are harbors
capable of receiving ships of war, even against the sides of the shore, and sutficiently wide
to turn in. In choosing a berth, it i-s usual to be guided by the direction of the wind, ta-
king the western aticliorage, in S. W. gales, and the eastern one in .S. E. where you lie
land-locked, the bottom mud.
OWL'S IH^AD is very remarkable, being round and abrupt ; the lands and islands in
the neighborhood are rugged and barren. The body of flood tiile sits in from S. W. at
the rate of one mile per luuir.
Following the coast, w hicli runs nearly 'J miles W. X. W. from Taylor's Island to East
Point, there is a rock uncovered at low water, which lies near the land, having a passage
between, with 4 and 5 fathoms water : the shore all the way is rugged and steep, against
which the sea beats violently. N. X. W. from East Point one mile, is Contact Point,
and in the same direction 1{ mile further, is Peggy's INjJnt, beyond which a short mile is
Shut-in-Island, 1200 feet high and covered wiili trees; olf the southern point of this isl-
and there is a shoal of 'J leet, with 6 and 7 fathoms between it and the island, and near to
Peggy's Point there is another of 1') feet, w ith (> fathoms to the ntuthward of it ; during
^utherly galfs the water on the lee side of the islands becomes smooth, and the bottom
It9l<;ls well. Indian Harlior runs in here, and forms a place (it for small vessels, but afforrls
nQ s&elter, being enMrely open to the sea. To the E. N. Eastward of Indian Harlxir is
'>Hag|»'s Cove, distant one mile, a cove or harbor of similar description. Luke s Island,
Tbc^QpUpt Jolliman and Wedge Islands, all lie olf the eastern side of Margaret's Ray,
and contirlbute to break olF the force of the sea, so that under the lee of Luke's and Jolli-
man'9- Islands, there is good anchorage at all times fur ships o|' every description.
'% FRENCH COVE is easy of actess. and may be considered as a natural dock, exten-
sive, with plenty of water, and well sheltered ; there is a shoal of 10 feet water lies oppo-
site to the entrance of this cove at the distflnce of two miles, but as the islands of the
eastern shore are bold to, no vessel need go so far out into the bay as to approach too
near this danger.
HEAD HARBOR, or DELAWARE RIVER, lies at the further end. on the N.
Eac^ern extremity of the Ray, and is an anchorage of most excelh'ut description, forming
so complete a place of safety that a tleet of ships might be securely moored side by side,
and remain undisturbed by the most violent hurricane ; the surrounding lands are high
and broken; Mason's Point is in itself a good farm, well stocked with cattle, and excel-
lently cultivated ; and IMoser's Islands at its entrance are used as sheep folils : the land on
the larboard side of the entrance to the Head Hariior is 4i() feet high.
INGRAM RIVER, — To the westward of Head Harbor is Ingram River, running in to
the northward of Moser's Islands ; at its entrance it is one-lhird of a mile wide, with 7, b,
and 5 fathoms water, it then gradually decreases to its head, which is shallow and sandy.
To the westward is (Caspar's Indent, open, shallow, and seldom fre(|uented. These in-
dents or coves have rugged jioints projecting southward, and it is from these places small
craft are employed to take limestone, building sand, &c. the former of these being of a
very superior quality. Cooper and Indian Rivers are both shallow rocky nooks, but are
the resorts of salmon, and in the lakes above, trout abound in great qiumtities, of delicate
flavor, and conunonly of a deeper red than the salmon.
HUBERT'S t;OVE, is situated at the N. W. corner of Margaret's Bay; here at the
entrance, is a ridge of rocks about 100 fathoms long, and covered at high water, so that
when the sea is smooth it becomes invisible ; in order to avoid this danger you have only
to keep towards the western or eastern side of the harbor, for both sides are bold to; the
western channel is much the wider and better of the two, and by keeping the larboard
shore on board, a stranger, or a ship dismasted, or in distress, or without anchors, may
turn in and (ind shelter, running aground with perfect safety.
Lonff (^orc is 2j miles to the south of Ilubiiert's Cove, and affords good anchorage
with a westerly wind. To the southward of Long Cove the coast is bold and rugged,
without any danger. exce|)t a small rock of six feet water which lies close into the lanil.
NORTH WEST HARBOR is about one league to the southward of Long Cove ; at
its eutrance is Horse lylaud, which divides it into two chauuels ; there is a good passage
with 10 f!
behind itf
abrupt pil
South
steep on
is a small
inonly cal
rocky islij
bo:!ts ; he[
N.E. of
this the s|
f)us unles]
Till- H
West IslJ
from Tayl
rocks abol
sides, andT
on the wel
it then sil
are 1-M4
ret's Bay,
will carry
tering an
To 111''
ping ; at
ward of t
niiles fro
South W
I ROM
Island, di
it lies S. I
Margaret
good c-ha
(JREE
7 miles fr
W. i w.
between 1
its exact
the marii
out for a
water sut:
MAIH
high and
regular r
off; itsei
with plei
convente
bound I'
jaeent ti
Kiiohme
sine are
(iieat
Island 11
N. 5 mi!
Little i:
bears fn
thirds;
are 4i,
Flat !
in a sini
but the
places i
it is a b
ern par
on the
line wit
BLUNT ri AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
113
stiirK'ienl l)eitlj,
iniuldy bottom.
some places but
ieri, and barren,
11(1 witli fisli, and
ere lor the mar-
Taylor's Island
"Stli nine miles,
lere are harbors
utFiciently wide
of the wind, ta-
'■■ wliereyouiie
Is and islands in
from S. W. at
^ Island to East
;<vin« a passage
1 steep, asjainst
Contaet Point,
■> short mile is
»iiit of this isl-
id. and near to
' "f it; (hiring
Hid the bottom
pIs, but afl'ords
lian nari)or is
Luke s Island,
i>f«nret's Hay,
ke'sand Joll'i-
iption.
1 doek, pxten-
iter lies oj)po-
islands of the
approach too
id, on the N,
)tion, forming
I side by side,
inds are high
e, and exccl-
: the land on
running in to
ide, with 7, (>,
w and sandv.
. 'J^hese ill-
places small
He being of a
)oks, but are
s, of delicate
; here at the
nier, so that
01 iiave only
bold to; the
the larboard
nchors, may
anchorage
"id rugged,
to the land,
ig Cove ; at
lod passage
with 10 fathoms water on each side of the island, and small vessels may find anchorage
lichind it in from (> to !) fathoms, or further up in T), -1 or 3 fathoms. Owl's Head is an
abrupt precipice, and forms the south point oftntrance to Nortli West Hay.
Sot/tit Wv'.s/, or Holdcrncss Island, is a remarkably rocky island, full 50 feet high, and
steep on all sides : directly to the northward of the northern jiart of the South West Isle
is a small spot of 3 fathoms water, and to the N. Westward of tlie island is what is com-
monly called the South West Harbor, formed between (Jwl's Head, which literally is a
rocky island, separated from the main by a very narrcnv j)assaiie, not even navigable for
bouts; here are o, i) and 7 fathoms water, but the place is seldom frequented. To tho K.
N. E. of South West Island, distant nearly half a mile, is a rocky shoal of 4 fathoms ;
this the sea freijuently breaks over, in bad weather, but it cannot be considered danger-
ous unless to vessels that draw very deep watc^r.
'rhf Horse Shoe, or Do/a; Rock, lies about south, distant one mile and a half from South
West Island ; directly west ftoiu East I'oint, distant 'J miles and three quarters, and
from Taylor's Island W. by N. 4 miles and one third ; there are several small sunken
r'jcks about it ; part of it is conse(|uently above the surface of the water shelving on all
sides, and the sea in stormy >k'eatlii'r lireaks violently over it ; at a little distance from it,
on the western side, is (i fathoms, and on its eastern side at a similar <listance, is 8 fathoms,
it then sinks into deep water ; between the Horse Shoe and the South West Island there
are Vi, 14, 'J6, .'34, and 150 fathoms water. Vessels from the eastward, bound for Marga-
ret's Hay, commonly go in between the llorsi- Shf)e and Kast Point ; a northerly course
will carry you midway bef 'en them, right up to the head of the bay, without eucoun-
tering any danger, excei . tliost? already descrilied.
To the Westward ol Soutli West Island is Aspotogon Harbor, too shallow for ship-
ping ; at its entrance are Hlack, Saddle, ;md Ciravelly Islands and Shoals ; to the south-
ward of these is Seal [..edge, shallow and dangerous: it lies west i north, distant 2j
miles from the Horse Shoe, and W. S. W. nearly 3 miles from the southern part of
South West Island.
IRU.NHOrNl) ISLAND. W. S. W. } S. from the south poiDt of SoutfcW**,
Island, distant 5 miles, is Ironbound Island, about one mile long, narrow, and ate6p to |>t.
it lies S. S. E. ^ S. one mile and a half trom the extremity of the pen'nStilawhicTb divides
Margaret's and Malione Hays, and is calliul New Harbor Point; between wliich is a
good channel, with from U to 17 fathoms water, the ground being diiiefy a black sand.
(JREEN ISLAND. S. A E. distant one loagiicfrom Ironho'und Island, S. W. by S.
7 miles from South West Island, W. S. W. 3 leagues from Taylor's Island, and W.^N.
W. ''l W. from abreast of Sanibro Liu'lithouse. lies (uecn Island ; it is small. Midway
between Ironbound and tJrccn Island there is said to be a shoal oi'only 2 fathoms, but
its exact position is not acciuatcly known, and then-fore it is omitted in the charts ;
the mariner, in passing through tiic channel between tlu'se islands, will do well to look
out for and guard against, the jirobable existence of such a danger; there is otherwise
water siillicieiitly deep for any vessel.
MAHONE HAY is separated from Margaret's Bay by the peninsula, upon which the
high and conspicuous Mountain of Aspotogon is situateii, whose appearance, in three
regular risings, is a very remarkable ol)jt-ct to seaward, being visible more than 20 miles
oil'; its entrance is encumbered with several islands, between all which are good passages
with plenty of water, and few dangers; tliese lead to most excellent harbors, and places
convenient and well adapted for the fisheries. We have alrendy noticed Gre^n and Iron-
bound hiands; these lie on the eastern side of fli" entrance to the Bay of Mahone ; ad-
jacent to these, and on the same side, are the Tancook Islands, Flat Island, and the
Knohuie Hock ; there are also the Bull Rock, and the Outer Ledge. On the western
sine are the Duck and other islands.
(Jreat Duck Island lies W. by S. from (ireen Island distant 4 J miles. Little Duck
Island lies N. W. .V N. aliout one mile and two thirds from (Jreat Duck Island, and W. \
N. 5 miles and one third from (ireen Island : nearly midway between Green Island and
Little Duck Ishnd, lies the outer Ledge, over which th" sea always breaks ; this danger
bears from the east end of the Great Duck Island N. K. , N. distant one mile and two
thirds; and from (ireen Island W. \ N. one league ; over it is 4 feet water, and round it
are 4i, ."), and 7 fathoms.
Flat Isl.iid lies due west from Ironbound Island, distant one mile and a quarter: and
in a similar direction from Flat Island, somewhere about one mile off, lies the Hull Hocks,
but the exact situation of this danger is not correctly ascertained, for Mr. Des Harres
places it more to the southward, and Mr. fiockwood to the ntu'thward of thin position;
it is a blind rock, uncovered at one-third ebb, with deep water all rounrl it. The south-
ern part of Flat Island, in aline with the southern points of Ironbound Island, will lead
on the rock, as Mr. Des Harres has |)laced it, while the northern part of Flat Island, in a
line with the northern shore of Ironbound Island, will lead to the northward of it; and
15
M
\\i-A
:iui»m>an ■"-
114
BI.l'.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Chester Church open of Great Tancook Island, will carry you clear to the westward of
it in 7 and 10 fathoms water.
Great Tancook is one mile and three-quarters long, and about a mile broad; to the
eastward, between it and the main land, is the Little Tancook Island, separated by a chan-
nel a quarter of a mile broad, in which are 7, 8, and ") fathoms; a similar passage is be-
tween Little Tancook and Indian Point on the main, but there is a middle ground in it
of 4 fathoms ; Knohnie Rock is above water, and shoals all round, it lies to the eastward
of the south-east part of Great Tancook, and at this part of the island is anchorage in 8
or 10 fathoms water.
Westward of Great Tanrook one third of a mile, is a rocky shoal of 6 feet, while be-
tween them the channel has 10 fathoms water: to the W. I)y N. of this shoal one mile,
is another, with from G to IJ feet over it; l)etween these shoals the passii^e is good, and
lias from 12 to 25 fathoms water in it. Olf the north-west part of Great Tancook is Star
Island, and a little to the eastward of it is a ro( k y patch of shidlow ground, so that vessels
should never attempt the puss;!^i' between !S ar and Tancook Islands. There is yet
atjother danger, called the Coachman's Li-diit-; it lies 2 miles to tl.e northward of Great
Tancook, and is only visible at low water; to lead clear to the eastward of this ledge, you
should brinjT the eastern point of Great Tancook and the east side of Flat Island in one :
to clear it to the southward, bring the west end of Iroiibounfl Island open of the west
part of Little Tanf ook : and Frederick's Island north point bearmg W. S. W. ^ S. will
carry you safe to the iidilhward of it.
Having passed theCoiuhman, the head of the bay lies open; on your starboard side
is the high land and small River of Aspoto^on, where small vessels occasionally run in
alid anchor; there is a rocky shoal at its entrance, which must be avoided. To the north-
ward is Cumberland Arm, easy of access, and alfording good anchorage, with 7 and 8
fathoms, obseSjj'ing togive a berth to the starboard shore, which shallows some distance
«u|^..^^here-i& also good riding on the larboard shore, behind an island which lies on
di^ e^Mpra side of the Chester Peninsula; here vessels can ride, well sheltered, in 8 fa-
"'.-■i} Chester Town is situated at the northern part of Mahone Bay, and is surrounded by a
lilne and fertile country ; its inhabitants are industrious people, and the adjacent islands
• .<u?e well clothed with sheep; wood and water is in aiuuidance, and several vessels are built
4bere; the anchorages between the various islands and before the town are good, well
thelt«red, and secure, and the depth of water moderate ; the only danger is a shoal, which
jMinly dries at low water: this lies west | south from the Town of Chester, from which
it is distant one mile and three quarters.
On the larboard side of Mahone Bay, and directly west of Tancook Islands, is a large
Inlet or branch of- a, river, named by Des Barres, Princes Sound: the passages into it
are very safe, only giving a wide berth to the southern end of Edward's Island ; steer
mid-channel, and, when well in, anchor in 9 fathoms, or within the innermost islands, in 5
or 6 fathoms ; further in it becomes flat and shallow.
To sail into Mahone Bay from the eastward the fust land visible will commonly be
Green Island, which is round, bold, and moderately high; thence to Ironbound and Flat
Islands, both steep to, is two miles and three-quarters ; you may proceed and pass between
them towards the Tancook Islands; these are inhabited ; the channels between them are
bold, and the anchorages under their lee good, in from 7 to 12 fathoms water : but if you
are proceeding for Chester between Green and Duck Islands, you must beware of the
Outer Ledge, which always shows itself by breakers ; the mark to lead clear through
this passage, is Chester Church well open of Great Tancook Island ; this mark will also
carry you safe to the westward of the Bull Rock, already described ; and when you get
near, or within half a mile of Tancook Island, steer out westward, and bring the same
church to bear about north, and this will lead you up to the town.
LUNENBURG BAY, called also Malaguash, is now a plar e of great population and
considerable trade ; vessels carrying wood, cattle, vegetables, &c. are constantly employ-
ed from here to Halifax; the harbor is very easy of access, and there is good anchorat^e
to the very town. At its entrance lies Cross Island, about 30 feet high, and containing
253 acres of land, on which a lighthouse is erected, the light and keeper's house are red
and the lantern black ; on the N. K. sir' of this island is a nook, where coasters ride in
safety; off this part lie the Hounds Rocks, which, in passing, niust have a berth; the
west and south sides of the island are bold ; and two miles from its southern end is an ex-
cellent fishing bank, with from 14 to 17 fathoms water. There are good channels on
either side of Cross Island.
Vessels sailing in or out, through the northern passage, should endeavor to keep about
the raid''le of the channel, in order to avoid the sboals and rocks above mentioned, and
also those adjacent to the opposite, or Colesworth Point ; having passed these, you should
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
115
he westward of
; broad ; to the
rated by a chan-
r passage is be-
lle ground in it
to the eastward
anchorage in 8
i feet, while be-
ehoal one mile,
s;p is good, and
i'ancook is Star
, so that vessels
There is yet
hward of Great
this ledge, you
t Island in one;
len of the west
S.W.I S.Will
' starboard side
isionally run in
To the north-
B, with 7 and 8
some distance
1 which lies on
eltered, in 8 fa-
iirroundcd by a
djacent islands
■esseJs are built
are good, well
a shoal, which
;r, from which
mds, is a large
)assages into it
i Island ; steer
St islands, in 5
commonly be
ound and Flat
pass between
*een them are
er : but if you
beware of the
clear through
nark will also
tvhen you get
ring the same
opulation and
antly employ-
od anchoras;e
nd containing
house are red
iNters ride in
a berth; the
1 end is an ex-
channeis on
:o keep about
mtioned, and
e, you should
keep the northern shore on board, bringing Battery Point to bear nearly N. W. by which
you will also go clear of the Sculpin or Cat Rock.
The Sculpin or Cat Rock, lies nearly in the middle of the bay, bearing N. E. distant
three-quarters of a mile from Oven's Point; according to Des Barres, there are but three
feet over this danger, but it will easily be discovered by the breakers over it at low water.
Sailing through the western channel, which is to be preferred, you should endeavor to
steer N. N. W. between Cross Island and Rose Point, where you will have 10 and 12 fa-
thoms water; keep the Town of Lunenburg in sight over the low land to the eastward of
Battery Point, and this will lead you clear of the rocky reefs about the Oven's Point;
but beware lest you lessen your water below 7 fathoms, for the soundings about the point
are very irregular; bring the Wagon Road at Lunenburg open to the westward of the
Battery Point, and this will run you to the westward of the Sculpin, and between it and
a rocky knoll of 4 fathoms water; having passed the Sculpin, haul up towards the north-*
em shore, until you bring Moreau and Battery Points in one ; this being the direct mark
for the Sculpin Rock, steer on in the direction of the Battery Point, approaching it oo
nearer than a cable's length, then round Battery Point, and bring the road well open of
the Moreau Point; this will run you clear into the hirbor, and between the Long Rock
and the shoals off Battery Point, when you may direct your course for the town, where
you will find 12 and l.J feet water along side the wharves, and near to them 20 and 24
feet, soft muddy ground, and perfectly secure. ,.
Vessels having occasion to go to the southward of the Long Rock, which is the wider
and safer passage, will observe there is a reef runs out from Woody Point, culled the
Shingles, which must be carefully avoided; to do this, when you have so far entered
the bay as to be equi-distant between the Ovens, which are hollow cliffs, Battery (Mat) '
Woody Points, then edge off a litile to the westward, until you bring a farm house, that
stands over the middle of Sandy Bay, on with the end of a wood close to ttn opening lik^
an avenue, bearing N. W. i N. steer with this mark on, until the west end of Lunenburg
Town comes over Moreau Point, then steer N. Eastward a little, approach Battery
Point, and proceed as before directed.
The best anchorage in the Bay of Milaguash or Ltmenburg, is on its western sidet*^^
about half a mile from the shore, and nearly inid-wpy between Oven's and Woody Points (
where, with good ground tackling, you may s;ifcly ride out a S. Easterly gale; but tb<| ■
bottom is generally rocky and uneven. It is high water, full and change, gt 9 o'clock.
Ddrtmoulfi Bay. This is siiiiatcd between Oven and Rose Points; there are soni9
settlements about the sliores, and on an island at the bottom of the bay ; it is easy of en- '
trance, and you may anchor aitreast of this isliuid in 3, 4, 6, or 7 fathoms; in sailing in-
to this bay, it will be always ailvisable to borrow somewhat towards the Rose Point short,
because of the shoals which lie to the southward of the Oven's Point ; there is others
wise no danger whatever.
From Lunenburg to the Ironbound Island, at the entrance to Le Have River, the
shores are bold, and much indented with irregular inlets or bays. Ironbound Island lien
about W. S. W. ^ S. distant nearly 2 leagues from Cross Island; it is inhabited; and
some small rocky islets surround its northern shore : S. E. A E. 1^ mile from this island
is a bank of 20 and 25 fathoms, and W. S. W. three-quarters of a mile from that, is a
small spot of 15 fathoms; these have from 30 to 40 fathoms about them.
LE HAVP^ RIVER. — Vessels coming from the south-eastward for Le Have River,
will not fail to discover Cape Le Have, a steep al)rupt cliff, 107 feet high, bearing W. |
S. about 12 leagues distant from Sambro Lighthouse. S. E. by S. one mile from the
Cape, is the Black Rock, 10 feet high, and 100 feet long, with deep water all round it,
and 9 to 11 fathoms between it and the shore, except on a small knoll, lying off, and op-
posite to, the Cape, over which are only 4 fathoms ; W. t)y S. distant 3i miles, is Indian
Island; and to the northward of the Cape, lie several islands, with passages between
thci7i; but the best entrance to the River Le Have is to the northward of them all.
There is also a channel to the northward of Ironbound Island, but it is narrow, and to
navigate this you must give the Ironbound Island a good berth; you will fhen have from
12 to 4 fathoms water all through it ; but the best passage is to the westward of the isl-
and, which is above one mile and a half broad, and has from 10 to 14 fathf-ms water with-
in it ; about 3 miles to the N. Westward of Ironbound Island, is a bar which runs across
from shore to shore ; over this are 12 and 15 iefl, the deepest water beina; one-third across
from the eastern shore: the soundings from Ironbound Island towards the bar are 11, 14,
12, 9, 7, 6, 5, 4, and 3 fathoms, the latter depth being close to the edge of the bar; but
when you are well over that, you drop into 4, 5, and (' fathoms, the river continuing navi-
gable 1" -niles uy). or so far as the falls ; the general wiiith of the river is half a mile, and
whei. ou are 8 miles up it, you will meet with the road from Luneuburg to Liverpool,
where a ferry is established.
■ fe**s;
■L.
116
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Within and to the westward of Cape Le Have is Palmerston Bay, at the head of thi<»
is Pftit Riviere; off the eastern eiilnince of this bay hes Indian Island, bearing W. by
S. distant ;}.'t miles from Cape Le Have.
PORT MF/rWAV lies between Cape Le Have and Liverpool Bay, and is a plare
now rising into considerable conse(]uence, on account of its navigable capacity, and its
convenience to the fisheries. The entrance to this port bears from Indian Island W. 8.
W. distant 7 miles, rlio land to the eastward of it beinj^ remarkably broken and hilly ; on
the starboard point of the entrance lies Kryins; Pan Island, which is connected, by a san-
dy reef, to niimerotis islets which stretch alomj; in a N. N. E. ^ Northerly direction, nn-
til they join the main land : that which is next to Frying Pan Island is commonly called
Glover's Tsland, and lies half a mile to the northward, and bears S. E. ] S. a good mile
and a half from Metway Head. The entrance to this port may be known by the high land
at Cape Metway, and the low ragged islands before mentioned ; the widtli of the chan-
nel is about seven-eighths of a mile, and the depth of water from 5 to 14 fathoms. Di-
rectly in the way of your making for the entrance of the channel, lies the South West
Ledge and the .Stone Horse Rock ; the former bears from the Frying Pan Island S.4^ E.
distant | of a mile; there are 19 feet water upon it, and the sea, in rough weatlier,
breaks over it: the latter, or Stone Horse Rock, lies E. by S. distant one-third of a mile
from the S. W. Breaker, and dries at low water: there is 6, 7, and 8 fathoms between it
and the Frying Pan Ledge, and should you pass this way, you must give the island a
food bertb,.Qn account of a spit which runs out from it, in the direction of the Stone
[orie RoQK, a full quarter of a mile; but tlie best course will be half a mile outside of
both thead dangers, you will then pass in 12 and 14 fathoms water, and running on W. a
little Southerly, toward Kempenfelt Head, you will open the channel, and may steer in
dire<;j;ly north. Or, you will avoid the S. W. Ledge and Stone Horse Rocks, in coming
from tne eastward, by bringing the Liverpool Lighthouse, which stands on Coffin Island,
open tif the'laod to the eastward of it: and when Frying Pan Island comes N. N. E. dis-
'• tant It mile, steer in N. J E. this will carry you past jNfetway Point ; and when opposite
to Neii'f Poivt you may anchor in 4 or 4', fathduis water; from hence mud banks con-
Bidera]bl3^,JiariiQ\<* the passage, and a pilot will be found necessary; but should you pro-
' ceed firth'er Vrithout one, you will continue mid-channel from abreast of Neil's Point,
Jt. N,.!WR|j^ N. until Collin's Island hears West, and until Alicia River is just opening
. oif. Poittf li'iiSyt'then steer N. W. by N. and \V. N. W. I W. and anchor in 3 or 4 fa-
thoms, muddy'ground.
*I To run up Alicia River, you must sail between d'rass Island and Point Lucy, keeping
clo^e to the southern and western shores, in order to avoid the flat which extends from
the northward, leaving a deep but narrow channel. Barry Bay, or Branch, which runs
\ up to the westward, U|^^allow, and full of rocky shoals: and so is Brier Bay, which is
situated on the NrJK side of ihe port. The tide runs commonly with great strength,
and it is high water at 45 minutes after seven.
At Cape Le Have it is higli water full and change, at 8 o'clock, tide rises from f> to 7 feet.
Malaquash Bay. 6 to 8
Green Island 6 to 8
Mahone Bay 7
LIVERPOOL HAY.— The entrance to this bay hears about W. by S. distant 17 or
18 leagues from Sambro Lighthouse. Halifax ; and W. S. W. | W. 15 miles from Cape
Le Have; before it lies Coffin's Islund, which is now distinguished by a lighthouse, 75
feet above the level of the sea; the light is on 'he revolving principle, and appears full
at intervals of 2 minutes; between this island and the western land is the bay, aUbrding
good anchorage for lar<,'e ships, especially with the wind off shore. In the bay there is
sufficient room for turning to windward, and tht; deepest water will be found near the
western coasts; the land in the vicinity of the harbor is broken, rocky, and of a barren
appearance, yet the commerce of the town is very considerable. The channel to the
northward of Coffin's Island is shallow, having a sandy spit running from it and joining
the main land ; therefore none but small vessels ever attempt it: but the passage to the
southward is full one mile and a half wide, and has 15, lb, 17. and IH fathotns water.
Give the lighthouse |)oint of the island a small berth, as a flat of .3 and 4 fathoms encom-
passes it, and there is no other danger. Bald Point, or Western Head, is bold to. and
rendered remarkable by its having no trees upon it. Having entered this bay, and passed
between Coffin's Island, and Moose Head, bringing the lighthovise to bear E. by N. dis-
tant 1| mile, steer west; this will bring you abreast of Herring, or Schooner's Cove, sit-
uated on the N. E. side of the bay, and affording good shelter from sea-winds in .3 fathoms
water, on a bottom of mud ; or, proceeding further, vessels of two or three hundred tons,
with high water, may pass over the bar, which stretches from Fort Point to the opposite
shore; but at low water this cannot be done- for then it has not more than 9 or 10 feet
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
117
he head of thi«(
lieaiinjj; \V. by
, and is a plare
capacity, and its
n Island W. 8.
11 and hilly; on
ected, by a san-
y diiecfion, iiii-
imnionly failed
S. a good mile
ty the hiLjh land
th of the chan-
fatlionis. iJi-
le South West
1 Island S.,| E.
mnpli weatlier,
■third of a mile
oins berween it
ve tlio island a
n (if the Stone
mile outside of
Hininii on W. a
[id may steer in
jcks, in coming
n Coffin Island,
!s N. N. E. dis-
when opposite
lud banks coii-
lould you prn-
f Neil's Point,
s just opening
or in 3 or 4 fa-
Lucy, keepiiiir
I extends fnini
h, which runs
Bay, wliicli is
;rcat strength,
)m 5 to 7 feet.
. .6 to 8
. .6 to 8
7
distant 17 or
es from Cape
tjlifhouse. 7.}
I ajipears full
bay, artbrdiiig
e bay there is
uiid near the
i of a barren
lannel to the
ind joinine;
)assaji;e to the
tlionis water,
lomsencom-
bold to, and
y, and passed
h>. by N. dis-
r's (Jove, sit-
in .T fathoms
undred tons,
the op|)osite
I 9 or 10 feet
it
o\'er it ; when within the bar you will perceive the channel winds S. Westerly, and you
can andior in not less than vi failioms, opposite the Town of Liverjioid. Herring Bay
is much exposed to the heavy 8. Easterly swells of the sea, and has not room for more
than two sloops of war.
It is liiijh water in Liverpool Bay, full and change, at 50 minutes after 7, and the tides
rise from 5 to 8 feet.
PORT MATOON, or MOUTON. called by Des Barres, Gambler Ha>bor.— This
port is formed iiy the Island Matooii, which lies across its entrances, dividing it into two
channels. In the eastern passage lies the rocky ledge, called the Portsmouth, or Black
Rocks, partly dry ; this is about one mile to the eastward of the island, and lies S. W.
by W. distant 5 miles from Bald Point ; the passage on either side of this ledgehas deep
water, with sufficient room to turn into the harbor. From the N. W. part of Mouton a
shoal runs off a full mile, having J] fathoms near its outer extremity; over some parts
of tlii? shoal you will have .'}, 3;, ■ od 4 fathoms; here also is a small spot of foul ground,
with 'JO feet over it; this lies I'l. i^ W. | W. from the N. W. end of Mouton.Island,
and N. E. i E. from the Northern Spectacles Island, distant half a mile. The Specta-
cles lie to the W. N, Westward of Mouton Island, and are visible as you enter the port ;
to the northward and westv.ard of them are 10, 11, and 12 fathoms water, muddy and
sandy ground, with good anchorage, secure from all winds. To suil into Port Mouton
by the eastern channel, and with a leading wind, to the northwarci of the Black Rocks,
you may steer in W. by N. passing at the distance of three-ipiarters of a mile from White
Point, until yon bring the Spectacle Islands to bearS. S. W. ,} W. ; this wiTt Carry you
clear to the northward and westward of Mouton Island N. W. Shoal, then haul up S.
W. by W. for the anchorage before mentioned. To sail in to the westward of the Black
Rocks, you should steer in N. W. mid-chann ' or nearly half a mile froii(^ Montdn Isl-
and; in this ])assage you will find t''-< m 8 tr ' i.^ins water; alwayejiviojg the south-
ern part of the island a berth, on ; eoiint •' . sandy flat wliich runs o|fftj^-In adopl'mg
this channel, mariners must look out for a >,iiall knoll of (j feet, said to fie^J. N. E. f E*
distant one milo and a half from the southern extremity of Mouton Islaod.} this appears
to be a modern discovery. *
'^IMie Western Passage to Port Mouton is between the island and the igain, and only
frequented by coasters and vessels of a small draught of water; it is eofeumhered witn
shoals, and too intricate for straiiirers; the channel is narrow, and close tO the tnaiqlfiDd^
jiassiiig iictwccn it and tlie Bull Kock : haviim passed which, you can proceed to the an-
chorages, either otl' the \. W. shore of Mouton Island, or round the Spectacles.
The land now turns S. W. i' W. from Point Mouton towards I|ort Jolie ; midway is
a black craggy point, with several rocks about it ; 8. \ E. distant 2^ miles from Black
Point, and S. W. 14 miles from Liverpool Liirhthouse, lies Little Hope, an island 21
feet high, and 1200 fathoms long ; this is a very great danger, ana i|)|auld have a beacob
to distinguish it; round the island is a shoal ground, partly drying, and with 3 and 4'
fathoms upon some parts ; it lies dirct E. S. E. from the eastern point of entrmce to
Port .lolie, from which it is distant two good miles; between the island and point, some-
what nearer to the latter, there is said to lie a ilangerous shoal,' not hitherto noticed in
the charts.
Port .lolie is an inlet more than .5 miles deep, but very shallow, and having scarce wa-
ter enough for large boats ; the lands adjacent appear barren and stony, yet have some
families of fishermen settled there. Nearly south from the eastern point of Port Jolie,
distant one mile, is a spot of 3 fathoms, over which the sea commonly breaks; and on
the western entrance of the port are some ro(;ky ledges, which show themselves by the
breakino; of the water over them ; there is also a small island, lying to the S. Westward,
called the Little or Lesser Hope.
PORT L'EBERT —This is the third inlet west of Liverpool, and may readily be
known by tht steep and abrupt appearance of its western head : and al.so by Green Isl-
and, which lies to the S. Westward of its entrance ; this island is somewhat remarkable,
being destitute of trees. Port L'Ebert is divided from Port Jolie by a peninsula, which,
at the head of tlie respective ports, is scarcely half a mile across. The channel in runs
nearly North 6 or 7 miles: but, although small vessels may run a considerable way up,
ships of larger size can only find anchorage at its entrance; the depth half a mile from
the head, is from 9 to 12 feet ; but at the mouth of the port are 6, 4, and 3 fathoms.
SABLE RIVER lies to the S. Westward of Port L'Ebert, distant 5 miles; at its
entrance, nearly midway of the channel, is a rocky islet; this lies S. W. by W. from
Green Island, distant .'U miles ; there is a passage on either side of the rock ; that to the
eastward has 12, 13, and 15 fathoms water, but that to the westwan! is somewhat shal-
lower; the two points of entrance of the river are distant from each other one mile and
a quarter, with from 6 to 11 fathoms ; but there is a bar which renders this place totally
unfit for aifording shelter to any but the smallest class of vessels ; it is, however, not
■see:
.,:'.j»i«**t-- ■
\
118
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
destitute of inhabitants, some of whom Hie settled in a small nook close to the westward
of the river, which h (.alk'd the Little Harbor.
RUGGED ISLAND ILVRBOll lies W. by S. distant 15 miles from the Hope Isl-
r.nd, and E. N. E. 9 miles from .Sheli)iirne Light. It seems to have been so uned from
its craj^gy and ruggeil appearance, and the numerous dangerous ledges and ^Ken rocks
at its entrance. This harbor is difficult of access, and seldom resorted to, unless by the
fishermen, who are familiar with its navigation; yet the anchorages are good, with 4,1
and 4 fathoms; during gales of wind, the iinevenness of the ground frequently causes
the sea to put on a most formidable appearance, breaking violently from side to side.
Off the western head, distant about a mile, is the Gull, a bed of rocks, over which the
water always breaks ; but between the head and the (iull are from 6 to H fathoms. Ves-
sels coming from the eastward will jierceive 8t. Thomas's or Rugged Island, lying S.
W. by W. fruin Green Island, distant b^' miles ; this island, having high rocky clifls on
Its easte^rn side, allbrds a good mark for the harbor. To the S. W. of Rugged Island
are some rocky ledges; the outermost of these is called the Bear Rocks, being distant
from the island three-quarters of a mile; between Rugged Island and the Bear Rocks,
are ether dangers; and a little westward of the Bears is a sunken rotk ; these three lat-
ter, lying in a sort of triangular form : W. by N. from the Bear Rocks, distant one mile,
is the Blow Breaker, a rock with only 4 feet over it ; this appears to be the Tyger of Des
Baicres, by whose description it should bear south from Rugg Point, which is the east-
ern bouudary of the harbor. To sail from the eastward for Rugged Harbor, you will
see tJje eastern cliffs of Rugged Island bearing north, distant 1 \ mile ; keep a good look-
•ou? for the Blow, or Tyger Rock, and |)ass well to the outside of the foregoing dangers ;
ti*jd having cleared these, haul up N. N. W. for the islands on the left, or larboard side
of the harbor : in so doing you must be careful to avoid a shoal which stretches half way
over from the starboard shore, narrowing the channel very considerably, so that between
the aboal antJ^P^uffatt Island, the passage is not above a quarter of a mile wide; pursu-
ing this direction, you will readily reach the anchorage in the Northern Arm. In the
best of the channel. Center Island will be just open of MuHait Island. Small vessels
°j(nay be ifi^ sheltered within Cubb Basin, which is to the northward of Mufl'att Island ;
litid vessCjKcoQung from the southwaid or westward will have deep water on either side
of the GOB&oc'ks, or between the Bear and Blow Rocks. At Cape Negro and Rugged
\Jsland H^or, It {b high water, fiill aud change, at H o'clock ; and the rise of the tide is
about riiek.
.■ , GB.EEN HARBOR.— This port is to the westward of Rugged Island Harbor, hav-
L-,ing Wtt island on its western side of entrance, and running in full three miles; this and
' Hhe River Jordan, situated still further to tne westward, r.ppear to be places where good
■if^ anchorages may be obtained, but they are at present little frequented by shipping, al-
ii though they have miiny inhabitants ; they are open to southerly winds, which cause a
' heavy rolling sea.
SHELBURNE HARBOR, or PORT ROSEWAY, is, according to Mr. Lock-
,^ wood, juiitly esteemed the best in all Nova Scotia, from the ease of its access, and per-
.- , feet security of its anchorages, which distinguishes it perfectly from Sambro Light. At
the entrance of the harbor is the Island of P^oseneath, or M'Nutts, which is nearly
-3 miles in length, and 1^ in its broadest part : on the S. E. point of this island stands an
excellent lighthouse; this point is a high clilf of white rocks, the summit of which is
without trees ; the west side of the island is low. The lighthouse is painted white, and
has a remarkable appearance in the day-time, on account of a dafli wood that is behind
it; while, at night, two lights are exhibited from it : the upper light is 125 feet above
the level of the sea, and the lower about one-third from the top of the building. This
lighthouse bears from the lighthouse of Sambro W. S. W. distant 30 leagues; from
Cape Negro N. E. J^ N. 7 miles ; fioni Point Btny S. W. tV S. 2} miles ; from the break-
ers South west of Rugged Island W. N. W. f W. 8 miles, and from the Jigg Rock,
which has only 6 feet water over it, N. N. E. ^ E. IT mile. When coming in from
sea, make for the lighthouse, bringing it to bear N. W. or N. W. by N. then steer di-
rectly towards it : the dangers to be left to the eastward of you, are those adjav;ent to the
Rugged Rocks already mentioned, the Bell Rock, which is always visible, appearing
black and bold to, lying E. N. E. ^ E. distant 2j miles from the lighthouse. In coming
from the westward, you may steer for the entrance on either side of the Jigg Rock, and
if for the eastward, on either side of the Bell Rock. When you get abreast of the light-
house you may sail in to the northward of M'Nutt's Island about N. W. by N. keeping
nearly in mid-channel ; the island's side is bold to, and the anchorage is good, in 7, 8, or
10 fothoms, the bottom mud ; keep ihe western shore on board, for there is a shallow
spot somewhere about the eastern side, between George's and Sandy Points. Sandy
Point is about two miles beyond the N. W. part of M'Nutt's Island ; give it a berth, for
a sandy spit extends from it 3U0 yards. With M'Nutt's Island locked to this point, the
HLUiXT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
im
to the westward
anchorage is exceedingly good, and sliipping may. with good ground tackling, ride in
safety during the most violent storm. In the channel, about 8. by E. distant nearly one
mile from Carlton Point, lies the Adamant Jiock, abreast of Dnrfcy's House ; this will
easily be avoided by going into no less water than 4', or 5 failionis, or by keeping Petit's
Island open of Surf Point. The inlet which runs up to tlie N. W. has several shoals,
in it, but the eastern shore has regular soundings, from Sandy Point upwards, and is
free from danger, while in the upper part of the harbor, above Carlton Point, vesselsmay
ride in 5, 6, or 7 fathoms, the ground holding well. We have already stated, that your
course from the entrance towards Sandy Point will be about N. W. by N. and having
rounded Sandy Point, you tan I'locci'd N. I.y W. and North, accordir;: to your wind.
In coming from the eastward of this iiarboi, be careful to avoid, and give a good berth
to, the shoals oif Kugged Island ; and do not haul up for the harbor until you get the
lighthouse to bear VV. by N. A N. by whicli precaution you will go clear of every danger:
or you may stop a tide at the entrance in from K) to lU fathoms, sand and clay*
Shelburne afiords excellent shelter for ships in distress, and is secure against any wind,
except a violent storm at S. S. W. abreas^t of tlie town, the wind from S. to E. does no
harm, allhouj^h from S. by W. to S. W. by S. if blowing hard for some considerable
time, it will set the smaller vessels adrift at the wharves; but in the stream, as has been
observed before, with good cables and anchors, no winds can injure you. Hereyoumay
be supplied with cordage, duck, spars, provisions, and water. Carpenters, )iii,*»'n. blOck,
and sail makers, can be obtained, if re'iuired ; and the port charges for vessels which L>ut
in for supplies only, is no more than 4d. per ton, light money, on foreign bottoraV; but
should you enter the custom-house, the duties become much higher. It is higU water, „,
full and change, at 8 o'clock ; spring tides rise H feet, neaps 6, but a fresh breezeTrpna
the S. E. commonly brings on high water sooner, and causes an additional rh&oii or
3 feet.
CAPE NEGRO HARBOR is named from Cape Negro, the easter|i,%nit of an isl-
and which lies before its entrance ; this Cape is remarkably high,^rocl;y, and hmnay'
bearing S. W. 4 S. distant 7 luiles from Shelburne Lighthouse ; this i'stand is very low
midway, and has the appearance of being two islands. There are twa'-pibssaj^s into the
harbor, one to the eastward of the island, and the other to the westwartlpfitji^fbe former
is much the better of the two, but this is rendered dangerous, on accoput Cffi^o sunken
rocks which lie off its entrance ; these are called the Gray Rocks and'ttie Btmget: thft
Gray Rock lies N. N. E. from the Cape, distant a full mile, and is situated neariy on th*
starboard side of the channel ; some parts of these rocks are always visible, su)<j senre aa .
a mark for the harbor. The Budget is a blind rock of 6 feet, lying nearly ratd*channe|^.,-
and only a quarter of a mile from the island, having deep water round it. In the chan- 'J
nel to the eastward ofthe Budget you will have 10, 1-2, and 14 fathoms, and the best direc- ^,;
tion to enter the harbor, will be to steer one-third from the rocks Off the eastern point,
until Shelburne Lighthouse is shut in, then you will be within the danger. There itt *
excellent anchorage off the N. E. part of Negro Island, in from 6 to 4 fathoms, on a bot-.
tom of stiff mud. The northern part of the island presents a low shingly beach, (rovt^ Cf
which a bar extends quite across to the eastern shore, over which are 15 fe^J at low water 5v'.,^
above this bar it is navigable full 6 miles, having a smooth clayey bottomfwith 3, 4, and
5 fathoms water.
The passage to the westward of Negro Island is somewhat intricate, encumbered with
rocks and dangers, anjl should not be attempted except in cases of extreme emergency;
in such circumstances, indecision or timidity might produce certain destruction; theo
the commander's post should be aloft, and if not possessing confidence himself, he should
affect it. Captain Des Barres, says, " if coming from the westward, in hauling round
Point Jeffery, to avoid the ledges, blind rocks, and shoals, extending easterly from thft
western shore, you should shape your course N. N. E. i N. towards the Cape, giving
the Savage Rocks a berth of three cables' lengths, until you open Davis's Island, a sail's
breadth off Point William; Davis's Island is the largest, and westernmost at the head of
the harbor ; run up in that direction, observing to keep clear of a sunken rock which
lies E. S. E. from Point William, about 300 fathoms from the shore. Fishery Beach is
bold-to."
To sail through the north-east passage, which is not so difficidt, keep Gray's Rocks
on board, and steer N. W. for Point John, until you see across the isthmus in the mid-
dle of Cape Negro Island, or until Shelburne Lighthouse is shut in, and having passed
the Budget, from thence haul over to the westward, keeping along the shore about 2
cables' lengths from the island, to avoid the shoal, which extends half the distance over
from Point John, towards the island ; and when you have opened the small islands at the
head of the bay shape your course N. N. W. to the anchoring ground, the bottom is
mud and clay; along the N. E. side of Cape Negro Island, the auchorage is good stiff
clay.
120
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
141'
It n* i
I , The River Clydn, whicli (Jescends from a rhiiin of lakes that extends E. N. E mul W,
S. W. a coijsideriibic! distance in the interior, lulls into the head of Negro Harbor, af-
ter a run of 28 miles.
PORT LATOUR, or HALDTMANT), is situated a little westward of Neirro Har-
bor, being separated from it by a narrow peninsula ; Uie extreme points which bound the
entrance to the southward, are Point Jelfery, or Blanche Point, to the eastward, and
Point Baccarro to the west , between and within there are several clusters of roeks, rt-n-
dering the harbor unfit for any but small craft ; and the tide leaves the head of the in-
let dry in many places ; the adjacent lands are barren, and the settlers are but few ; nt ver-
theless, as some vessels may be driven to seek shelter here, the following directions of
Mr. Des liarres may prove acceptable. " To sail into this port, coming iVom the west-
ward, continue your course easterly, until you have Hrehem Isle a ship's length open
to the eastward of North Rocks : thence you may steer northerly for Isle (leorge, and
when you come up within the distance of two cables' lengths from its south end, incline
to the westward in a dnection with the western extremity of Pond lieach until you ojjen
Prospect House on the north side of the northernmost Mohawk Ledges, and then haul
into anchorage in 3 fathoms, muddy bottom.
" Nearly midway between Baccarro Point and the South Ledge lies the Folly, a sun-
ken rock, within which and the western shore is a channel off) fathoms. The V'ulture,
a dangerous breaker, lies S. W. A S. nearly two miles from Baccarro Point."
BARRINGTON BAY. — This is a spacious inlet, situated to the westward of Port
Latour, and formed by Cape Sable Island, which lies in front of its 3ntrance; there are
two passages into it, that to the eastward is between Baccarro Point and Sable Island,
beiog at its entrance three miles wide; that to the westward is not more than a mile
broaa; both are encumbered with numerous and extensive flats, narrowing the passages,
and rendering the navigation dangerous; for although the channels may generally be
discovered, oy the waters appearing dark, yet it will require a leading wind to wind
through to the anchorage, which is towards the head of the bay, and about one mile and
a half lielow the town ; here there are from IH to ^(i feet water. The passage to the
nortbwatd and westward is used by small vessels only, and is not safe without a cominand-
ingbreBae, as the tide of ebb is forced unnaturally through to the eastward, by the B:\y
ofFundy tide, |t the rapidity of 3, 4, and sometimes 5 knots an hour; setting immedi-
atdy upon the rocks which lie within it.
The Town of Barrington is situated at the north-eastern extremity of the bay. Ves-
• hHb venturing into this bay by the eastern passage, must be very careful to avoid Baccarro
Point, giving it a wide berth of full 2 miles on account of the Bantan, Shot Pouch, the
Vultuje, and other rocks which lie off it ; the Vulture Rock is very dangerous, and lies
W. S. W. from Baccarro Point, distant nearly 2 miles ; tlie IJantan bears S. S. W.
from the point about a similar distance, and from the Vuliurc S. hi, almost one mile;
they are both exceedingly dangerous.
CAPE SABLE is the south-easteru extremity of a small narrow island which is sep-
arated and distinct from Cape Sable Lsland ; it is low and woody, but the Cape itself is a
,. broken white cliff, apparently in a state of decomposition, and visible 4 or 5 leagues olf;
ifef- from this island spits of sand extend outward, both to the south-east and south-westward ;
the Eastern Ledge is called the Horse Shoe, and runs out 2.\- miles S. E. by S. ; the
Western, or Cape Ledge, stretches to the S. W. about 3 miles. The tides, both flood
aud ebb, set directly across these ledges at the rate of 3 and sometimes 4 knots an hour ;
causing a strong break to a considerable distance, particularly when the wind is fresh ; it
will then often extend full 3 leagues out, shifting its direction with the tide, the flood car-
rying it to the westward and the ebb to the eastward, the former running a considerable
time longer than the latter. This rippling, or breaking of the water, may be considered
hazardous to pass through in a gale of wind, but there is not less than 8, 10, 12, aud
20 fathoms, rocky ground.
It is high water at Cape Sable, full and change, at three quarters after 7 o'clock, and
the spring tides rise 12 feet neap 6.
BONNETTA COVE.— To the north-westward of Cape Sable is a small island, called
Green Island, to the N. East of which an inlet runs in to Cape Sable Island, forming
Bonnetta Cove, where good anchorage may be found in 3 fathoms water; the entrance to
it is narrow, and runs in between a spit and the- island ; this will be too difficult for a
stranger to discover, but is frequented by the coasters and fishermen.
FAVORITE COVE is situated in the Western Channel, and about the middle of
Cape Sable Island ; here also small vessels may run in and anchor in 2 fathoms, behind a
small islet which lies mid channel, at its entrance, affording a passage on either side, but
that to the eastward is the best, and has the deeper water. With S. W. gales there is
always good anchorage off the N. E. side of Cape Sable Island; but the Shag Harbor,
which lies on the opposite side of the Western Channel, and bears N. N. W. from Bon-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
121
o'clock, and
netta Ctfi", i" f"ll of shoals, and must not l)e attempted, unless you arc well acquainted
with il.^' It is here high water, lull and change, at 9 o'clock, spring tides 11 fe.;t, neaps
8 feet. ,
THK| BRAZIL ROCK. — This is a flat rock, covering a space of 10 yards, over which
are only'8 and 9 feet at low water; a tail extends 90 or 100 yards from its hase, having
6 to ri llfthonis water ; the tide runnm<; strons? over this, causes a ripple, and makes the
rock ap|»t>ar larger than it really is. Southward of the rock, at the distance of about a
mile, you will have .'15 and .'{4 fathoms, then :M and -J-2 as you approach nearer to it ; but
towards the Cape Sable shore the soundings are regular, from 19 to 15 fathoms, you will
then lessen your water to 10 and 7 fathoms, when you will beat the edge of the Race-horse
Shoal; to the northward of the Brazil llock, in the direction of the Bantan Rock,' you
will have Hi, 1!), 15, 17, Ki, 15, and 10 fatlionn ; with this latter depth you will be near
the Bantan. and must tack to the westward. The exact position of this rock has been
much disputed, but the place assigned to it by .Mr. Des Barres, appears to be nearly cor-
rect; its latitude is 4.3^ 24' 15" N. and longitude 65° 22' VV.
Magnetic Bearings and Distances between Halifax and Cape Sable.
From .Sanibro Lighthouse to Cross Island Lunenburg, nearly West, 8^ le^ues*
-Capi! La Have, W. jf S 12
-Liverpool Lighthouse W. by S 17^
-Hope Island near Port .Tolie, . . W. S. W. | W 21
-entrauce'of Port Shelburne, . . . W. S. W 2)
-Cape Negro, W. S. VV. a little westerly 31|
-Cape .Sable,
W. S. W i W*
.36
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
milea.
*dmi >
doV
ICK. — H. M. packet brig Express fell in with twf) islands of ice on ^hjig Isll|todr0t|n1c»
the 7th July, 183G, in 45 fathoms water, estimated heights 180 and ISdl^ipt^ < liaUtlido
43° 13' N. longitude 2b° 17' W. Air 46°, water 42°. .'.>*„?,' V
Brazil Rock Nearly W. S. W 34^
Shelburne Lighthouse to Cape Negro, .S. W. iS ,.,... 7-
Cape Negro to the Brazil Rock S. W. J S .,'a..10
Cape Sable to the Brazil Rock, S. E. by E .\i .^ * '.'i - 8|
.•^f .
• This course cannot be sailed upon account of the intervention of the land.
16
I ra
THE ISLE OF SABLE AIVD BAI¥KS OF I¥OTA S€03i[^
ON the days of the new and full moon, it is high water along the south, shore of
island at half an hour after 8 o'clock, and it (lows till hiilf an hour papt 10 o'olo<^ od
north side, and till near 11 o'clock in the pond. Common spring tides rise pevoD feet pfN^t,
pendicular, and neap tides four. The flood sets in from the S. S. W. at the (ate of half a
mile an hour, but it alters its course, and increases its velocity, near the ends of theislapc^
At half-flood it streams north, and south at half-ebb, with great swiftness, across the noHfa->
east and north-west bars ; it is therefore dangerous to approach without a commanding
breeze. The north-east bar runs out E.N.E. about four leagues from the eastern extremity
of the island, all which is very shoal, having in a few places no more than 2, 3, or 4 fathoms
water, whence it continues E. and E. by S. deepening gradually to 12, 15, and 18 fathoms
water, at the distance of 8 or 1 0 leagues, and shaping to the S. and S. E. sloping gently to 60
and 70 fathoms water. To the northward and eastward it is very steep, and, in a run of 3
miles, the water will deepen to 130 fathoms. Abreast of the body of the island the soundings
are more gradual. The shoal ground of the north-west bar shapes to the westward, and
deepens gradually to 70 fathoms water, at the distance of 20 or 25 leagues from th.e isle,
and winds easterly and southerly, until it meets the soundings oft' the north-east bar.
The quality of the bottom in general, is very fine sand, with a few small tran.sparent
stones ; to the northward, and close to the north-east bar, the sand is mixed with many
black specks ; but near the north-west bar, the sand has a greenish color. The north-
east bar breaks in bad weather, at the distance of 8 and 10 leagues from the island ; but
in moderate weather, a ship may cross it at 5 leagues distance, with great safety, in no
less than 8 or 9 fathoms water ; and. if the weather be clear, the island may be seen
hjnce very distinctly from a boat. The north-west bar breaks, in bad weather, at 7 and
sometimes 8 miles from the island ; but when the sea is smooth, ships may cross it
m
«■
122
lU.lNT 8 AMKHICAIV COAST PILOT.
'^'^
within the (lifltiuicc of 4 iniltss, in 7 I'iithoins wiiler. — These hurs iirc tliils di'Mcrilicd by
Mr. Des HHrrcs : hut rcpeiititil stoniis, arxi the violence ofthe »i:.\, may, in cnuriie ^t'years,
have eoiiMiderabiy altered tlnii- Ibrni and extent.
Alung the north and tiiMttli sides oi the island are many 8pits ofsand, nearly parallel
with ami within a tHile Ironi the shore. Vessels may anchor on the north .side ol the
island, between the spits, ami not be liable to be driven oil' by southerly winds. On the
south side, it is boldest oil' the body ofthe island, having 10 or I'J fathoms water, within
a mile ofthe shore ; but towards the bar it is more shnnl, and daii^iTous to approach ; for
the currents, which arc uncertain, are, in a fi;reat de;;riM', influenced by the winds which
have preceded. The surf l»eats continually on the shure, and in calm weather, is heard
several leagues olf. Landing; ou this island, wiih boats, is practicable on the north side
after a continuance of good weather only. The whole island is composed of white sand,
much coarser than ;my of the s()undiii!:;s about it, and intermixed with small transparent
stones. Its face is very broken, and liuve up in little Inlls, knobs, and dills, wddly lie:ip<
ed together, within whi>'h are hollows and ponds olfiesli water, the skirts of whicli aboutid
with cranberries the whole year, and vith iiluebt-rrics. juniper, (\'c. in their season ; as
also with ducks, Miipes, and other birds. This sandy island alfonls great plenty of bench
grass, wild pe^is, and other herbage, for the support ot the horses, cows, hogs, dec. which
are ruontag wild upon it. It grows no trca-s ; but abundance of wreck and drift wood
may b*^ Wcked up along the shore for fuel. Strong ntutlierly winds shift the spits of
saittk ipa often even dioak u|) the cntranci! ofthe pond whicli is «ii the .South side of
the island. In this pond are prodigious miiiibers of seals, and some llat-lish, eels, ice.
and on the south-west side, lies a bed of remarkably largo muscles and dams. The south
shore Is, between the clill's, so low, that the sea breaks (|uite over in many places, when
the wind blows on the island. The Ram's Head is the highest hill on this island; it
has a steep cliff on the north-west, and falls gently to the south-east. The naked Saml-
hills wcp l46 feet in perpendicular height, above the level of high water uuirk, and always
appear very white. Mount Knight is in the shape of a pyramid, and situated in a hol-
low, between two steep cliffs. Mount Luttrell is a remarkable hummock on the top of
a large swelling, in the land. Gracia Hill is a knob at the top of a cliif, the height of
, which if 126 feet perpendicular, above high water mark. The Vale of Misery is also
. remarkablie, a| is Smith's Flag-Staff, a large hill, with a regular ascent every way. From
the offingf the south side ofthe island appears like a long ridge of sandy cliffs, lessening
towards the west end, which is very low.
Ship masters are too ready to abandon their vessels when stranded on the shores of
thia island: in moderate weather an immediate .ttempt shotild be made to get out an
anchor; for, as the sand is soft and luoveable, it will often happen that a vessel can be
got oflTat once, which in a few hours would be totally lost : when the surf is so smooth
ai«to permit landing, it is generally smooth enough to carry out an anchor. The Bri-
tish barque Tottenham, in 1832, got on the N. W. bar ; the crew and passengers land-
ed, and in 11 hours she was discovered to be afloat, and all hands went on board and
succeeded in getting clear. The ship Kagle, of New York, with a very valuable cargo,
got on shore in August, 1835, on the S. E. part ofthe island ; after being on shore 4 or
6 days she floated off, having very little water in her, and brought up a mile further to
the eastward, where she was finally lost.
At the present time, there are three houses on the Isle of Sable, one on each ex-
tremity, and one near the centre ofthe island, in which individuals reside, who are em-
ployed by the Provincial Government of Nova Scotia, to assist any vessels which may
be wrftcked on these shores. Adjoining the house at the west end is a garden, and a
piece of cultivated land, the only spot of the kind on the island, where vegetables and a
considerable quantity of hay are annually produced.
As when a vessel is on shore in a fog, it is of the utmost importance to ascertain her
true position, in order to save the ship or the lives of those on board, the following di-
rections should be attended to :
If breakers are seen to extend in a direction N. W. and S. E. you are on the N. W.
bar.
If breakers are seen to extend W. S. W. and E. N. E. you are on the N. E. bar.
If breakers are seen to the northward ahead, and extending from ea.st to west, you are
on the south side ofthe island.
If breakers are seen to the southward ahead, and extending from east to west, you are
on the north side of the island.
The eastern end of this island is in 43° 5')' N. latitude, longitude 59° 48' W. : the
western end is in 43° 57' N. lat., long. 60° 14' W.
The Nova Scotia Banks extend nearly 70 leagues, in a westerly direction. From the
Isle of Sable, they are from 20 to 25 leagues wide, and their inner edges are from 14 to
18 leagues off-shore. They are intersected by narrow winding channels, (the bottom of
BLUNT S AMEUICAN COAST IMLOT.
123
wliirh is nuiil.) niiiniiiK N. W. ami S. K. nptwccn tlit-sf banks iiiuJ thr »}iore, are iieve-
ralHiiiJill iiiiior I) inks, with (lf»!|) water and iniiddv boltoni. The water d<!«'|)f<ns regular-
ly frnin tli.' Isle ol Sahlr, to the distance of 22 Ica^ucH, in T)!) fathoms, line jjravel ; thence
procct'diiii; wt-stwani, the yravel becoiiH'H coarser; rontinniiii,' westward to the western
extremity oC the l)anks, the Roni\dinns are rocky, and slioalcn to IH and 1j latlioms wa»
ter: (Jape Sable bearini; N. by W. distant ir» leagues.
The south-west exlreiiiity of liantjuereau, lies seventeen leagues K. N, E. one half
E. from the east end (d the Isle of Sable. This bank extends E. by N. .'{5 leagues, and
is near H leagues in width; its shoalest part is abotU 5 leai^iies from its eastern extremity,
in Hi and IH fathoms water, slimy sand and clams: whence it deepens regularly every
way to ()() and 70 fathoms, towards the edyes of the bank.
This bank is steep to ; and from its sonndiims on the north side, you fall immediately
into ')() or 100 fathoms water, black mud ; and, on the south s I •, into 120 fathoms'.
REMARKS. — It may be observed, generally, that tVe soundings all along the Nova
Scotian Coast, between ("ape Canso on the K, N. E. and t^ape Sable to the W, S.
W. are very irrei;ular; from -Jf) to »(t and 50 fathoms; therefore in foggy weather, do
not stand nearer in sliore than .]') fathoms, lest you fall upon some of the ledges. By
no means make too bold with the shore in such weather, unless you are sure ofthe.pait
of the coast you are on; for you may, otherwise, when bound for Halifax, fall unet-
pectedly into Malione or Meekleidierg Bays, and thus be caught and endangered byaS.
E.wind. >'■'■
The weather on the coast is frequently foggy in the spring and some part of the iWn-
mer; in particular at the distance of 4 or 5 leagues from the shores; but on apprOKOhlng
nearer, the weather is found more clear; and, with tlie wind from the land, ittvj|Mrfo<st-
iy clear and pleasant.
THE WEST AND NORTHERN COASTS OF NOVA SCOTIA,
AND THE COAST OF NEW BRUNSWICK, INCLUDING
THE BAY OF FUNDY, WEFH 3IANAN ISLANDS, &.c.
on the N. W.
REMARKS. — Whoever examines and well considers the situation of the south t|Mt-
'em roast of Nova Scotia, tlie Ray of Fnndy, and Manan Isla'- Js, will readily perceiye
the dangers attendant upon the navigation of its harbors, its natural exposure to the At-
lantic Ocean the variableness of its tides and winds, and the many rocks with which it is
environed. These, tlierefore, must be expected to involve the mariner in occasional dif-
ficulties, which will call forth his utmost energies, and require no comraofi share of at-
tention to surmount ; yet, although the loss of vessels in these parts fully justify a peril-
ous apprehension, there are few obstacles which a nuidcrate exercise of skill and resolu-
tion would not have been able to overcome; nnd we fear it is more to the want of these
qualifications in the navigators, than to the da.igers of the navigation, that such losses
have ever occurred. •
"It is essential," says Mr. Lockwood, "to the safety of those who are navigating the
Bay of Fundy, that it should be clearly luideistood," and in cases of necessity, many are
the places of safety to which vessels mi/^'ht resort, even without the advantage of a pilot:
although no man would attempt to justifv the ccoimmy of saving the expense of pilot-
age, on a coast like this, where currents, fogs, and changes of weather may confound
the best judgment.
In order to lessen these accidents, if not totally to prevent such fatal occurrences in
future, let the mariner be fully convinced of the necessity of frequently sounding with
the deep-sea lead, and see the expediency of having his anchors and cables fit for im-
mediate use; this cannot be too strongly impiessed upon his mind, for vessels well
equipped and perfect in gear, with their anchors stowe^l as in the middle of the Atlantic
Ocean, have been here wrecked, in moderate weather, and so frequently, that such gross
neglect cannot be too much reprobated; such serious losses will, we trust, be hereafter
prevented, more especially as it is so dependant upon the mariner himself, and may 6e in
most cases, remedied by only sounding in time, and keeping the lead in continual action.
TIDP2S. — Another subject most particularly essential to the mariner, is a knowledge
of the tides ; this we recommend seriously to his attention.
f
121
BLUrvr's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
m^
W<'
CAPE SABLE TO nUIEIl'S ISLAND, ON WHICH IS A LKJIlTHOrSE.
THE (COASTS, ISLANDS, &c.— Hi-fore wp givr a dpurription of the rP'=i lantl,
from ('aptt Sahlr lo ilic cntniiicc of tin- IJiiy o( Kiindy, it iiihv lie proprr to n».i.co the
iMhiiut<i and rucks which lie adjacent and to the westward (il Cape Salde; these «re the
Jilonde llork.llic Seal, (on which is a li^hthniise) and IVIlid islands; the 'IMiKket IslalMlx,
the (irannet Kork, and (ireen l.sland, Arc. The Seal IslandH Honthernniost point b'-.rrs
from Cnpe Sahle nearly W. N. VV. } W . distanl l(> miles, liein^ somewhat more thiin
two inilcH in lentrth from Nortli to Soutli. Its sonthern part is covered with scrnliliv
trees, elevated ahout thirty feet aliovc timsea; to the sonthwaid o( this part, distant iwi)
miles and seven-tenths, is a rock uncovered at low wat«'r called the itionde, iVoni a vessel
that in 1777 was wrecked upon it ; round this rock are 7, !>, and 10 lathoins water. Aliout
a mile to the westward of the Hlonde are very heavy and dangerous overfalls, liavinu u
Tcrv alarininti; appearance. The ship Waterloo, in passiuR between the Hlonde Kock
and Seal Island, struck twice ujion a rocky shoal, with only eij;hteen feet water over
it, and thefebv knocked o(f her rudder; this was supposed tc» he a jiart of the ledpe
which nins oil" to the southward of the Seal Island. ^I'he lilonde llork is particu-
larly dangeroun,^aa the ehh tide sets so stronjily towards it; and from tlie Inwness of
the Seal Islands you are so likely to he deceived, even in line weather. 'I'he tide also
runn with great rapidity past the Seal and Mud Islands, whidi occasions tlie sea to lirrak
over the shoals in their vicinity, making them appear more extensive than perhaps they
really are. In sailing, therefore, between the Seal Island and the Miul Islands, large ves-
■•laahould always keep one tnile o(f the latter, by wjiich they will avoid the overfaHs in .1
f'athbms. Off the western part of the Seal Island, distant one mile, lie two small rockv
' islets, called the Devil's Limb, and the liiinb's Lindi; tlic Devil's Liud) is fisible at all
times, and the Limb's Limb is onlj seen at half tide. The smoothest anchorage is mid-
way between these and Seal Island in li', or 4 fathoms, clear sand; wild fowl and fish
Ve here in iftmndance. The fishermen r"sort to this island for wood and water; the for-
:|tt*l(^l^ktiif fkbtain from wrecks, the latter from a pond near the centre of the island.
^XwiMud Islands, called also the North Seals, are !y or (> low ragged islands, the largest
of which lies N. E. by N. .3} miles from the .Southern Seal Island ; if is one mile and a
quarter loitg, and off its southern point lies tlie Noddy, a little low islet; to the south-
i%ard of which are overfalls of eighteen feet; large vessels, in passing between Seal
9Xtd Mud Island, shouldbe careful to borrow within a mile of .Seal Island, for these over-
-'Cills ex^d full threc-qtutlrters of a mile from Noddy Islet. To this islet the petrels, or
Mother Gary's chickensTannually resort in great quantities to hatch their young, (lit-
tlng about in astonishing numbers. Nearly N. W. by >. distant two miles fnirn the
largest Mtid Island, is a ridge of rocks, called the Soldier's Ledge; it is commonly un-
Oovered at half ebb. The course from abreast of Cape Sable to pass between Seal and
Mud Islands, is W.W. by W. you will meet with some overfalls in this direction, but no
danger.
Tnsket-Bald Islands are a cluster of islands lying to the northward of the Mud Isl-
ands and to the south-westward of the entrance of the Tusket River; some of them are
of considerable dimensions, and there are juany shoals and dangers among them, so that
although there may be navigable channels between, no stranger should attempt these
passages. In the channel which separates the Tusket and Mud Islands, is a rocky shoal,
called by Des Barres the Acteon ; it lies N. N. W. distant 4 miles from the largest Mud
Island, but Mr. Lockwood places it one mile and a half further off; nevertheless, these
are generally supposed to be the sairie dangerous shoal, although its position does not
seem to have been exactly detprmined ; it appears to have from 2 to 4 fathoms over it,
and therefore must be carefully watched for and guarded against by those who should
venture through this channel.
TUSKET RIVER runs in to the north-eastward of the Tusket Islands, and is one
of several inlets that are navigable on this part of the coast; it has several settlements,
on its banks, but at present it is little known or frequented.
PUBNICO HARBOR is, according to Mr. Lockwood's account, "an excellent ship
harbor, easy of access, and well situated for vessels bound for the Bay of Fundy, and dis-
tressed for either shelter or supplies. Its entrance is distant from the south end of Seal
Island 12 or 13 miles, from which it bears N. E. ^ E. the depths of water between tlem
being from 16 to 20 fathoms, and from thence to 12 and 7 fathoms Up so far as the beach,
which is the proper place for strangers to anchor. Above this beach, otx the western
Hide, is a ledge, which becomes partly dry at low water. About 2 or .3 miles, on the
starboard shore, before you arrive at the entrance to Pubnico is St. John's Island, under
the northern side of which is good shelter in S. easterly gales ; and small vessels fre-
BLUNTS AMEtMCAN ('OAHT PM.OT,
125
(■
f|UPntiy lif rouiul th« hriirh whi(h forrii»< ifi rumrrn |)nrt; Imi ronxfr" rotnnmtily |)mmn
lliroUKli tlie ititirr cliiinni'l, witliiii St. Joliirn IMiittoii, ond lloiini' i'ltrtiiuc l.iliiriiU, dy
Corkewit, Hnil llienct* tow;inlH ii)irriiiK">ii liny hy Nhu^ liurlior; hut ihcHC pliicea ore
pnrtly nhoHl, iiiiil tntiilly iitilittf*<l tor lnrn«' »cshpIii.
Kniin the entrMiicf to I'ulmiro it W. N. W. J W. coiirup for 4 Iragiifs, will leail clear
to tlie Hoiiiliward of tin' 'I'liskct IsI.huIm, Ixit iti this route loii itiunt hr very larelnl to
avoid the Soldier's he<li!e and the Actvon, both ofwliirh have been already descrihed.
Having pansed to the weHtward of llie Mud iuid 'l'u»ket Iwlandfl, you will encounter, in
your paHHajse to the norlliward, the (iannet Hork, wliieh lien N. W. hy W. nearly <» niiles
iliHiant Iroui tlie Southern iiald Island, and S. .', W. 10 iiiileH from Cape Koureliu ; it i>
:U) feet above the Murfare of the water, and always appears whitened by the tlnnR of
birds: about two uiileM to the south-westward (d the (iuiuict iH the 0|>poi<«uni'ii I^edjte,
which is visible at half tide, and appears to have endangered the lives of many, havuig
been formerly rcpresenle-l to lie 4 niiles W. by N. from the (iannet ; Des Barres has
plai ed this datiger in latitude '»;( ' -lO' 4(1" and longitude 66° ')'.
(i'|{KKN ISLAM) lies N. N. K. ■' N. distant :t! miles from tVic fiannet Rock Light ;
there is a ret!' runs ottt froni this islaiul to the S. Westward almost ? of a mile; round
this reef are 6 and .5 •athoms water, and between it and the (Tai.nel Rock frt>m 12 iu I'''
fathoiiiH. West of (Jreen Island, about 1', ttiile, is „lso a sunker; ledge; it lies directly
in the fair way of the <liantiel m the liittle Harbor of Jeboeue, which is shoal ■nd in-
tricate, beinu the < ommoti resort of lisherniet' <nd coasters ; the latids adjacent are mo-
derately hii^h, and are both well «ullivated a' d settled. Should a stranger venture for
this harbor, he must not otdy avoid the dangers already described, but also a roeky shoal,
called the ])ragon, whi( h is situated S. W. .Southerly a full mile from Jeboglie Head,
and N. N. K. one mile and three-(|uarterH from (Jreen Island; there are 8, 10, and 12
fathoms between the Drajron and (ireen Island, and 5, 6, and 7 fathoms between it and
.lebogue Head; there is also a knoll of :) fathoms at the entrance of the harbor, and ■hod)^''
water olf its eastern side.
CAPK FOIJKCHU, or the Forked tape, so called from the island which forma it, :
having two narrow prongs running out to the southward, but the inlet formed between
these must not be mistaken for \'arnu)Uth Ilarl)or, which lies to the eastward of them
both. This Cape, according to the best authorities, lies in latitude 43" 5-2' 30", and forma
a remarkable object in these p:uts, being rocky, high, and barren | it beara from Jebogue
Head N. N. W. ? N. distant miles.
YARMOUTH. — Vessels intending to ruii for Fourchu or Yarmouth Harbor, will find
it the safest way to proceed to the westward of Seal Island, the Uannet Ruck, and OreM^
Island, giving the Cannet a berth of about two miles; they will then have nQj[|mger |9'
encounter, but from 'JO to ;U) fathoms water all the way. Having POM^d Gre*h IslaodTi
their course towards Yarmouth Harbor will be about N. N. E. A N. in this passage th*y,,
will meet with the Bagshot Rock, whirh dries at low water, and is dangerous, ruiming '
out shoal full half a mile to the southward : it bears from Cape Jebofue nearly N. W.
from which it is distant almost y.\ miles, and from Cape Fourchu S. bv W. almost 9j
miles ; you may pass on either side of this rock, and run on N. by E. | E. for the har-
bor's mouth; tiiis is considered a safe but small harbor; the fair way is to follow the
eastern shore until you reach the eastern point ; this you itre to give a berth, and pro-
ceed mid-channel : you will readily perceive the isthmus, with a battery upon it, and
under its lee, to the northward, is the anchorage; the grotuid is good, and the depth of-
water from 5 to 6 fathoms. About a mile above the anchorage is the town of Yarmouth,
which is numerously peopled, the houses large, though straggling, the grounds adja-
cent well cultivated, and the circumstancesof the inhabitants generally good.
From Cape Fourchu to Cape Mary the main land extends N. by W. and from Cape
Mary to the Lighthouse on Briers island is N. N. W. 13 miles. Almost opposite to
Cape Fourchu is the Lurcher's Rocky Shoal, and between that and Cape St. Mary is
the Trinity Ledge, and these are the only dancers in the passage.
THE LURCHER ROCK lies nearly W. N. W. from Cape Fourchu, distant 13
miles; it "hovers a spot of about 3 acres of shoal grotmd,the least water over which is 12
feet; around the edge of the shallow water are 10, 11, and 12 fathoms, and a little fur-
ther off from 20 to 30 fathoms.
THE TRINITY LEDf^E comprehends a smaller space than the Lurcher, about
three-fourths of an acre, having the tops of three small rocks showing themselves at low
tides ; this danger bears from Cape Fourchu N. by W. distant 14 miles, and from Cape
St. Mary S. W. J W. 6} miles ; the depth of water to a mile round it is from 12 to 15
fathoms. The stream runs very strongly over these two dangers, but the anchorages in
their vicinity are tolerably good for a tide.
Vessels coming round Cape Sable, and intending to take the Tusket Passages, m?y
I
--i«J*«feW''-'
126
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
1 steer N. W. by N. and proceed thrmigli either of the cliannrls wliicli have been liescrihfd
* before, as best suits their conveiiienci', or else proceed to the soiitliward of Seal Island
for about '.]') mi'es, passini; at the distance of -JO miles to the westward of Seal Island;
lluis the JJay of b'lindy will be open, and their course up N. N. W. This will rarry
them outside of the Lurcher, but tlie tide will make one point dilfereuce in this course,
and it sets S. E. and N. W. throufjh the channels of Mud and 'J'usket Islands, and near
the Manan Ledges, the ebb running W. 8. W. and the Hood E. N. E. at the rate of 4
knots an hour.
From the Seal Islands up to Cape St. Mary, the soundings extend lull 20 and ."JO
leagues off the land westward of Hrier's Island Light, and near the Manan Ledges are
60, 80, and 100 fathoms at 3 and 4 miles distance; tlu-refore the lead should always be
kept going.
BRIER'S ISLAND, AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE BAY OF FUNDY,
TO CHJUNKCTO KAY.
m
,:4r>*.
BRrBR'S ISLAND ... 3 at the S. W. entrance of St. Mary's Bay; it is 4 miles long
and 1^ iriileljiroad ; on its western side stands a lighthouse, ill const rurtcd and biuili/ Ufrhi-
id; iKe marpftr, therefore, ranvot place his hpendcncc upon serin i^ if, irhicli is the more to
hli lamented, on account of the (/misers ivhirh surround it. In advancing from the west-
Ward towards the island, the tide ripples strongly, even in .'$;J and 45 fatlioms, when you
a ■ at the distance of 8 or 10 miles off the island. There is a long and narrow reef runs
J|ft»ut S. W. from the S. Eastern part of the island, full two miles, some parts of which
' ^kr9 visible, and called the Black Rock; in the same direction to the S. W. is a small
apotofS fathoms^ {his lies about 1 imile from the extremity of the reefs ; between the knoll
and reef, and also aroi^od the knoll, there are from 15 to ;!4 fathoms: vessels, therefore,
going round to the son 'iward ofjirier's Island must always give it a wide berth. About
* ^jii^es N. W. I W. i om the northern end of the is'.,ind lies the N. W. Ledge of 10
'fbet; li is small and dangerous : nfearly S. \V. three-quarters of a mile from this, is Bet-
80ia'« Ledge, and otweeti these two ledges and the island are two others, said also to
be dangeroi^s, '' .ih deep channels between them, but the exact situations of these are not
clearly knoVn; it will therefore be particularly dangerous for the mariner to approach
nearer to the northern side of this island than four or five miles.
LONG ISLAND is separated from Brier's Is.and by a narrow channel, called the
Grand Pass;ige, in which are from 5 to 15 fathoms water: the island runs in a N. E. and
S. W. direction, being nearly 10 miles long, and about \},- mile broad ; its coasts are al-
• mosl^ straight, and at its further end is the Petit Passage, dividing it from a narrow neck
of bind which continues so far as the Gut of Annapolis; thus Brier's Island, Long Isl-
- tjoy, and this peninsr'^, form *lie northern shores of
: -St. MARY'S BA .. -While from Cape St. Mary, upwards into the bay, the south-
ern shoje is low and runs out w^th sandy flats, in some places almost so far as three-
3uarter« of a mile ; the ornosiie or northern shore, is constituted of high cliffs, having
eep water close under thtia. Nearly n' d-channel, and full two-thirds up the bay, is,i
rocky bank, with 4, 6, and 6 fathoms ovu it. whilst on each side of it are channels of 12
and 15 fathoms, muddy ground. Far up the bay, on the southern shores, is the River
Sisibou, ,the entrance to which is shoal, with a depth of only 2 fathoms water. At the
further end of St. Mary's Bay, is an extensive sandy beach, on entering which you will
lessen your depth from 4, 6, and 6 fathoms to 12 feet, and should you advance, it will
become more shallow. On the north side, and nearly opposite to Sisibou River, is
Sandy Cove, where vessels, when it comes on to blow hard, may run aground on a bot-
tom of soft mud, and lie sheltered from all winds.
GRAND PASSAGE. — We have already stated that this channel runs in between
Brier's and Long Islands; its souther:) entiance bearing North, distant 2(» miles from
Cape Fourchu, and N. by W. 12 miles from Cajie St, Mary; in running for it. from
abreast of Cape St. Mary, you will have no impediment whatever, but a depth of from
14 to 30 fathoms; at the eiurante of the passage is IH fathoms mid-channel, and having
advanced wiMiin you will perceive Billy Islet; this .nay be left on either side, altltougli
Mr. Des Barres says the western cliannd is the best and widest; here, a little to the
northward of the island, is one of the safest and best harliors in the vicinity ; from hence
to the northwanl are 4,6, 6, and 7 fathoms; following the shore of Brier's Island,
opposite its nftrfhern point, the water dee|)ens to 13 and 14 fathoms ; you are then clear
of the Grand Passage, and may borrow towards Long Island, steering N. Easterly, or
N. E. by N. into the Bay of Fundy.
PETIT PASSAGE lies at the further extremity of Long Island, and is the channel
which separates that island from the main. It is situated about 3 leagues to the north-
BLUM' S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
127
eastward of the (Jnuui Passugc, and is 280 fathoms wide in its narrowest part : its sliores
are bold to, and tlierc islVoni JO to ^Ufatlioins of water within it ; a i\. N. E. .V Northerly
course, from abre;«.st of Cape St. Mary, will carry you right through it. Near its north-
ern entrance, on the western si<le, is Eddy Cove, a very convenient place for vessels to
anchor in, for here they may ride out of the stream of tide, which conunonly runs so
rapidly, that without a fresh leading wind, no ship could possibly stem it.
ANNAPOLIS CUT. — Pursuing the coast along shore from i3rier's Island to Anna-
polis Gut, it lias very few curvatures; the shore is bound with high rocky clilfs, above
which a range of hills rises gradually to a considerable height; their sunnnits appear
unbroken, except at the (irand and I'etil Passages, at Sandy Cove, and Gulliver's Hole>
where they sink down in valleys, and near the Gut, where they terminate by an abrupt
and steep declivity. The muriner, in navigating this coast, will by keeping about a mile
or a mile and a half from the land, have .jD, 4(t, and not less tlian30 fathoms water all the
way ; and when at the entrance of the Gut, 1.', mile distant from the lighthouse on Point
Prim, he will find the latter drptli. The Gut of Annapolis, says Mr. Des Barres, lies in
latitude 4-1'^ 45' 30" N. and longitude 05^ 40' 30 " \V. The shore on both, sides of the
Gut is iron bound for several leagues; the stream of ebb and flood sets throU|[hfheGut
with the velocity ofo knots an hour, ciUMug various eddies and whirlpools, Ifet'fiieUhest
tide will be fouii<l off the eastern side, which is so bold to approach that a 6Kp tavf Iruh
her bowsprit against the dill's, and yet lie in 10 I'lithoms water. There is a lightbottKB
upon Point Prim, the,l;ght from which is exhibited from a window 120 feet above th%^ •;
sea, and is an object of piiilul and useless economy ; but it may perhaps serve to ptevemt'
the fatal error of mistaking tiie re;U entrance of the Gut from Gulliver's Hole, which t|
land much resembles, but which the latter has no such distinguishing buildiog tt{
Point Prim runs oil' shoal about 30 fathoms, and ott'the eastern entrance is the Ma£j
War Rock : it lies about a cable's length from the land, and has no channel within J
The entrance t' he (:iut is very narrow, but keep mid-channel, and after you get pi^tjIiP
it the harbor wiilens, and ships can anchor on the east or west side of the basin, (tt.iMl'^
up to Goat's Island, if the latter, they should observe that when they get withia hidr^
mile of the island, they must stretch two thirds of the way towards the Urboard shont^/'^
until they are past the island, which is shoal all round, and from thence they can Ste0Jr
up mid-channel towanls the town. ',
In addition to the above, Mr, Lockwood observes, " That the'abrupt precipice* of t||9
high lands which form the Gut, cause those gusts of wind which rush down so-suddeli-
ly and so violently from the mountains. The tide also hurries your vessel through with.
great force. At the entrance there is no anchorage except close in shore^ near the qutdjr
western point ; in some places tlie depth is from 40 to 80 fathoms."
ANNAPOLIS TO THK BASIN OF MINES.— From the Gut of Annapofii xi
the bay to Cape Split, the coast continues straight, and nearly in the same direction, wl _
a few rocky clitfs near the Gut, or narrows, and many banks of red earth under lligh land(« -^
which appear very even. In the channel or narrows leading into the Basin of Mines, from
Cape Split to Cape Blowmedown, and from Cape D'Oronthe north side, to Partridge
Island, the land rises almost perpendicularly from the shore to a very great height. Betweon .
Cape Piowmedown and Partridge Islauil, there is a great deptli of water, and the stream of
the current, even at the time of neap tides, does not run less than 6 or 6 fathoms. Having
passed Cape Blowmedown, a wide space opens to the southward, leading to the settle-
. meutsofCornwallis, Horton, Falmouth, and Windsor, &c. these are now using' into great
mercantile conseque-ice, and abound in mines of coal, plaster, limestone, and other valu-
able minerals. While to the eastward the river extends to Cobequid Bay, having on its
banks the towns of Londonderry, Truro, and Onslow, this latter place forming a direct
communication with the Bay of Tatmagouche in the (lulf of St. Lawrence. Off Cape
Splitthere are considerable whirlpools, which, with spring tides, are very dangerous, and
frequently run 9 knots an hour. Should a vessel be at anchor between Cape Sharp and
Partridge Island, and you should be desirous of proceeding to Windsor River, it will bo
necessary to get under weigh two hours before low water, in order to get into the stream
of the Windsor tide on the southern shore ; otherwise, without a commanding breeze, a
vessel would run the hazard of being carried up with the Coiiequid tide, which is the main
stream, and runs very strong, both with flood and ebb ; while the Windsor tide turns oif
round Cape Blowmedown to the southward, and is then divided again, one part continu-
ing its course up to Windsor, and the other forming the Cornwallis tide, running up the
river of that name.
In sailing up Windsor River, the house on Horton Blufl' should be kept in a south
bearing, and the gap in the Parsborough River north; this will c,\rry you through the
channel between the flats, which cannot be passed at low water by a vessel drawing 15
feet much before half tide. Off Horton Blutf the ground is loose and slaty, and a ship
will be likely to drag her anchors, with a strong breeze, particularly at full and change ;
128
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
V'i't
therefore it miglit, perhaps, be better for men of war to moor across the stream, and full
one third from the lilulf.
HAUTE ISLAND — This island is situated at the entrance of the Mine's Channel,
and is not 1 { mile iu length, and about half a mile broad ; it bears from Cape Chignecto
S. W. distant 4 miles : the channel on either side is good ; that between it and the Cape
has 14, '20, and -JJl fathoms water in it, and that beuveeii Haute and Jolyfte Head from
'20 to 40 fathoms ; it forms a prominent and very remarkable object, from the height
and steepness of its rocky dirt's, which, in a most singular manner seem to overhang its
western side ; there is, however, a fair landing at its eastern end, and anchorage half a
mile off in 18 fathoms, with the low point bearing about N. E. by N. here also is a stream
of fresh water running into the sea. Cape U'tJr and Cape Chignecto are high lands,
with very steep dirt's of rocks and red earth, and deep water close under them. You
have nearly the same kind of shore to the head of Chignecto Bay, where very extensive
flats of mud and quicksand arc left dry at low water. The tides come in a bore, rushing
in with great rajtidity, and are known to rise, at the eqinoxes, from 6U to 70 feet perpen-
dicular. .
CUiGNECTO BAY runs up E. N. E. and may be considered to be the north-east-
ern branch of the Bay of Fundy ; it is divided from the Mine's Channel by the penin-
sula, o'f which Cape Chignecto is the \ve;jtern extremity: having advanced about 12 or
13 miles within it, you wUlsee a point on the larl)()ard or northern shore running out to
Mawar^this is called Cape Enrage or Knraged Cape ; II miles beyond which it divides
into, jtwo braacliea, the one leading to Cumberland Basin, and by the River Missequash
jtO'V^rte Bay, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and now becoming a place of very consider-
^^idiW^t^intnctrce \ the q>tli9r ruuning northerly, and taking the name of the Petcudiac
rj Aesflfjwti'tSf Mtoft. the Basin of Mmes, are fast rising into consequence, and becom-
»$«at (If liUoievlras settlements. The Cumberland Branch is navigable to within
)m of Vert« Bay ; and it iliieniarkable that when the rise of the tide in Cumber-
'iasib is 60 feet that in V^e Bay will only rise H leet. The River of Misse-
k, which rans aerOss the isthinus, is the present boundary between the provinces
'liova Scoti»0Bd NevJSrunswick.
.p'tttONECS'O BAY^ THE MANAN ISLANDS, AND PASSAMAQUOD-
*«
DY BAY.
tij;THB NORTH COAST OF THE BAY OF FUNDY, from Cape Enraged,
' I C^aoo, in the township of St. Martin's, is; at present, but thinly inhabited, and
ioBtinii0»to;be8O as far as St. John's : the land is good, but much broken with steep
".^Ffdtfjns; tlf<!f^ weather is generally humid, the winds boisterous and changeable, and the
v^MMf^l of sunshine limited and evanescent : but from Quaco to St. Johns the interior
|Uls rise in easy inequalities; the ravines of the dirt's are deep and gloomy, and the in-
„ ,1 llRtioiu frequently have beaches: at Black River, which is about 12 miles west of
li^ttMiO, is a safe inlet for a small vessel, although it is dry from half-tide.
- QUACO LIGHT is on a small rockort'Quaco Head, W. ■( S. from St. Martin's Head ;
iJ^-.is a revolviti ' light, time of revolution .30 seconds.
^UACO LEDGE.— This is a dangerous gravelly shoal, situated about 12 miles S.
it. from Quaco, and W. by N. distant 11 miles from Haute Island; it extends N.
N. and S. £. by S. about 3.t miles, and is half a mile broad ; vessels have fre-
^tlMiUy grounded upon this bank; there are several irregular patches of rocks lying ort
itsK. £. side; the ledge shows itself at half tide, and dries for about 100 yards, having
but 13 feet water over it with common tides ; half a mile to the N. E. the eddies with
the fldod tides are strong and numerous, the ship's head going nearly round the com-
pass in the space of half an hour ; the ebb is a true tide, and sets in a W. S. W. direc-
tion towards the ledge; the soundi.gs are from 7 to 14 fathoms, at about two cables'
lengths all the way round, but they shoal more gradually from the N. E.
The night tides here, and generally throughout the bay, are highest : at St. John's
they are so during the summer, but the contrary during the winter months, or between
the equinoxes. The mark to go dear to the southward of the (:^uaco Ledge is Cape
D'Or on with the soutu side of the Island Haute.
ST. JOHI*'S HARBOR.— The entrance to this harbor bears from the Gutof Annapo-
lis about N.^W. distant 11 leagues: it is distinguished by a lighthouse which stands
on Partridge Island, after mentioned. Vessels coming from seaward, and making for
this harbor, should, so soon as ever they can well discern the lighthouse, make their
signsl for a pilot; but if unable to succeed in reaching the harbor that tide, then endea-
vor to ifun in between Meqgenes Island and the main, going either on the south or on
the itMth side of this >BitU||p >Q doing which you will no where have less than 4, 6, and
BLUNT S AMEKICAN COAST PILOT.
129
ream, and full
artin*8 Head ;
6 fathoms water, with a bottom of sand and nuid. Here you will d ';»in the best anchor-
age, by liriiijjihg thetliiee hills in the coinitry to the N. L. in a In over llocky Point
Inland, and the house on Meogenes Island S. K. by S.
THE CITV OF ST. JOllN stands on an irregular descent, liinirig a southern as-
pect, and on entering the river, has an imposing appearance. Partridge Island is about
two miles to the southward of the eiiy, answering the double purpose of protecting the
harbor, and, by its lighthouse, guiding and directing the mariner to its entrance; the lan-
tern is 166 feet al)ove the level of the sea, and the light is good and well attended. The
ground for several miles to the soutiiward of Partridge Island is muddy, the de|)lhs gradu-
al from 7 to 20 fatlioms, aH'ording excellent an( horage ; the |)assage westward of tliis is-
land has in it 10 feet, that to the eastward has 10 feet, and abreast of the city are from 7
to '22 fathoms. Three fourths of a mile to the northward of the lighthouse is a beacon
fixed on the edge of a rocky ledge, formini; the west side of the channel, and having deep
water close to it. A breakwater is erected liirilicr on at the eastern side of the channel
and below the town; this greatly intercej)ls the violi nee oi the waves, which southerly
gales usually occasion. Every possible assistance is here given to shifu wanting repair,
they lie upon blocks, and undergo atliorongh examination, without incun'iug the expense,
injury, and loss of time occasioned by heaving them down. «• tt, '
Vessels having made the harlmr, and (inding themselves able to enttfr, may, whefi they
have passed Meogenes Island, edge in sliore towards Ivocky JaOiut, until tliey mtceSf^*
Meogenes Point is in a line with, or over the N. \V. corner of^Meogenes Jslai^: thed^
sailing in between Rocky Point and Partridge Island, with these marks on,.jrUl<<)llii?l^;^ ..
them, in the deepest wafer, over the bar, iiniil they open -Point J^aspetik to ti4;"B|f''*^'*^^''^
ward of the low point of Partridge Island; when putting the iitlm.stiM'board, theiri|iil
edge over towards Thom|)son's Point, until they get the red St^i#'|^the sotttnit^
St. John's in a line over the beacon ; keep tlunn in one, uptil tnly liave- passed .^
con at the distance of a ship's breadth : then haul up N. N. W. ibr the-hiirbor/ra
the blockhouse, at the upper part of the harbor, open^tp the westward of the kipg'A
situated l)y the waterside ; >• hich mark will lead lliem, mid-chttlhi^], up to t» «^
where they may lie aground, dry at half-tide, and clean the ship's Ubttoa^ Q^tiAt
ill the stream at single anchor, with a h.wser l;ist<;ned to the postsof the wharves OB i^OL.,
The Mood tide is weak heie, but the elib runs down rapidly past jVIeogenes li&tsftiijii^!
the Hay of Fundy. - ^ ^' ■< ' •i^i;.
Should the tide of ebb have taken place at the beacon, then it would behighfy^aqMtO|il|"
to attempt gaining the harbor that tide ; but wait for the next half-fiood-to gd'dVer"'
bar; a-* lioth sides of tin- enlranc!: to the lii\rl):)rare composed of sharp rd<iks, «^iieh
at low water; and the tide of ebb, especiall ii the spring of the year, when th« Use
snow is dissolving, is so exceedingly rapid and strong, that all the anchors yott
will not be sufficient to prevent the ship from driving.
" Tlie lliver St. .lolin," says Mr. Des Harres, " has sulficieut depth of water for lalMi'P
ships to the falls; wlieiice it (uintinues navigable eighty miles up the country, for vessels <^ '
10!) tons. At Fort Fre(leri(;k tiie rise of the tide is 18 feet, and at equinoetial S{Nrht^'-
tides 'Jo feet; above the falls it seldom rises more than 4 feet. When the tide has risen
I'J feet at the fort, the falls become smooth, after which, during the space of 20 tninutcjl.
they are passable. At times of great freshets, which gejierally happen between the begiti*
ning of yJy^r/'/ and tlie tml ot'JMdi/, from the melting of the snow, the falls are absotate]^
im))assable for vessels going up the river, (or then the tide does not rise to their -lev^D^
The falls are situated nearly -' miles beyond the City of St. John ; it is a narrow cbanbel
HO yanls wide, and 4(,0 long; this channel is sirai'^ht, and has a ridge of rocks stretching
in such a manner across it, as to hold an<l retain th" river water from running out into the
sea. After passing the falls, you enter a gullet, which is a quarter of a mile widfl, and
two miles long, winding in dilierent coiirse-s, and having lb fathoms in the channel.—
Next to this gullet is a line and extensive basin, a mile and a half wide, and eight milm
long, which enters the main river. 'J'hc river braiK lies some hundreds of miles up ib H
serjientine manner ; and runs through a country win li a'joniids with timber, coal, lime*
stone, and many other minerals; and the surrounding lands are now becoming highly Cul-
tivated. There is water sulticient to navigate vessels of ")(i tons, ns high as FrederioktoQ
and in all the branches to the lakes adjacent, except in dry seasons.
In the middle of iMni/., or earlier in fii.orahlc seasons, the snow and ice in the country
dissolving, occasion a general overllow in tiie rivtT, which, in some year.^ rises so high
as to inuiidi^le all the low lands.
In autumn, the River St .John is swolii by rains, and between t)i( ?r.iddle oi April and
the beginning of Mnij, by the melting of the i( e and the great (jnantity of snow that accu-
mulates on the banks of this vast navigable rive--. From these causes, the water streams
out to seaward cuutinually : therefore vessels, at tliat tiiu^, fj^qui enter the harbor with-
17 iS*<-
'm^M
-^i
t"
mm
130
Bf.UNT S AMKIMCAN COAST IMLO'I'.
out a fresh leading wind. The falls are then iuipaHHable, as the tides do not rise to their
level.
The body of the river is 17 J feet above low water mark, consequently after the tide has
arisen to that height, the water descends, or literally falls up into the river. When the
tide has flowed I'i feet, the falls are smooth and jjassable for 20 minutes. Above the falls
the water rises 4 feet, and at Majortield, which is 60 miles in the interior, it rises only 11
foot.
To the W. Sk Westward of Meogenes Island is Flat Bay, railed also Visarinkum ; it is
a small harbor, with 5 and 4 fathoms water, used sometimes by the coasters. From hence
the land runs nearly W. S. W. passing Negro Head to Cape Musquash; oft' the point of
which is Split Rock ; it lies close to the Cape, and ^las H fathoms water very near it, bein.;
distant from Partridj^s Island 8J miles; the shore is ironbound all the way, and has deep
water close in to the laj"!-
MUSQUASH HAKROR lies about a mile to the westward of the Split Rock ; its en-
trance is about half a mile wide, and there is gond anchorage a little way in, with 4 fathoms
, ^ter, but furtl^r on a h-ir runs across the harbor, over which is only lA fathom ; small ves-
10 sels sometimes paV ,j itie westward of the islands, and run up the river, which, when past
the bar, has 2, 2^, and 3 fathoms water; but this harbor is open to the southward.
' From the entrance to Musquash the coast runs W. S. \V. westerly nearly 10 miles to
■ Point Lepreau, on which there is a tower with two fixed lights, ( e elevated 18 feet above
..the other. In this space are 4 or 5 inlets, but only calculated f ;. <ma II craft ; the first of
.these is about 1^ mile to the westward of Musquash western point, and is of no note
-1|'halet4n' ; in your way to it, a berth must be given to the shore, particularly al)oui
aiquasfa Point, on account of some rocks lying oft' that part ; there lue channels be-
Bn these rocks, but few vessels will venture thronch them. About a mile further is
|S||il|oe Harbor, which is a mere shallow cove of two fathoms water. Little Dipper is
westerly still, and situated 31 miles from Musquash Point; this also has only 12
Iter hi it, and scarce fit for any thing but boats, (ireat Dipper is divided from Lit-
ter bJTa flat point of land, round which are several scattered rocks ; this harbor
c<MUi leftliratbtlate small craft, which sometimes run in there for slielter ; but it is by no
■q)0ta|il4^M.recQCimended, unless in cases of necessity ; there is a creek of fresh water
■ .yv^ te'iiO it, callsd Moose Creek. Further we.-tward, and about H niile from Point
i 'i4iflif»9*a, )« CurrLagu Harbor: this is open to the custward, and aft'ords anchorage at its
SlMttrance ip^ from 7 to 3 fathoms. The land all the way from Musquash to Point Lepreau
V^ hichg broken, and. many scattered rocks lie oft' it; therefore vessels, in passing, should
I'ji^Mrenil^ give it a good bej-th
!
or MASON'S BAY, is formed to the westward of Point Lepreau, /etween
^«od Red Head ; these bear from each other N. W. | N. and S. E. } S. distant full o
^jnlles. There are numerous rocks, shoals, and small islets within it, but its navigation
'•eems insecure, for Mr. Lockwood emphatically observes, "this point ought to be classed
Moae of the dangers of the Bay of Fundy, for many serious accidents have lately hap-
-'penedin the neighborhood of this promontory." Mason's Hay he calls a deep and ugly
In4ent ; so much so, that ships bound to the Kiver St. John, dreading to pass its entrance,
get freqaently embayed there, and some valuable vessels have thus been lost. " Yet, at
the head of this bay," he obseiTes, "is a place called Pok Logan, where there is good
shelter. Several rivers appear to fall into this bay ; and, perhaps, a better knowledge
would tend much to strip it of its fancied dangers."
"W. by S. from Point Lepreau, distant .'{i or 4 miles, there is supposed to be a danger-
ous shoal, but its* actual situation is not known : if such should exist, it must be sur-
rounded with very deep water, for a small distance from this imagined situation, are 26,
28, and 31 fathoms, mud, nmd and san<l, and gravel.
THE MANAN ISLANDS. — (irand Manan is an island situated at the north-western
entrance of the Bay of Fundy ; it is in the province of New Brtinswick, and forms a part
of Charlotte County; being 14^ miles in length, and 7 in breadth. According to the
Chart, the N. Western part of this island is distant from Passamaquoddy Head abou? 7
miles: its N. Eastern point, or Bishop's Mead, bears from Cape Maspeck W. S. W.
nearly 10 leagues, and W. N. W. from the entrance to the (Jut of Annapolis, abont 14
leagues; and from Petit Passage, N. VV. by N. 32 miles. Its S. \V. end, or head, bears
from the lighthouse on Brier's Island N. W. by N. nearly, from which it is distant 28
miles; and N. W. by W. from the northern entrance to Petit Passage, listant 30 miles.
Thus situated, it conunands an uninterrupted view of every vessel that passes to or froju
the Bay of Fundy ; it is naturally stronj;, and possesses harbors where the largest ships
may ride in perfect security : its fisheries are in great estimation.
On its western side the cliff's are nearly peri)endicular, rising 600 feet above the level
of the sea; but on this side there is only one little inlet along the whole range, that can
BLirNTS AMERICAIV COAST PILOT.
131
lot rise to their
shelter even boats ; it is coinnionly called Dark Cove, being situated about 4 miles from
the northern part of the islaiul : there i.s indeed a place called Bradford's Cove, about 5
or 6 miles more to the southward, but this is of no note whatever. There are soundings
all along the shore, from Bishop's Head to the 8. W. Head, 3, 4, 5, and G fathoms close
to the land, deepening to l.'i, 20, 21, and -.''2, half a mile off, to 3U, 40, and 50 fathoms at
a mile distance, and still deeper as you increase your distance from the isl^pd.
The Northern, or Bishop's Head, is abrupt and bold; but on its eastern side there is
anchorage in a place called Whale C'ove : this is situated between Swallow's Tail and
the North Point ; here vessels fre(|mMit!y ride during southerly winds, to wait the turn of
tide ; the soundings are from 15 to 25 fathoms ; but it must not be resorted to in north-
erly gales.
Lo)i/i Island Bay. — This lies to the S. Eastward of Whale Cove, and is formed by the
Swallow's Tail, which is a bold, high, ragged, and barren looking point, and Long Island,
which bears nearly south from it, distant l^mile. This bay is easy of access^ and pos-
sesses all the advantages of a }iari)or; the bottnin of the bay is generally mud, excepting a
ridge of rocks and gravel, which extends from the ledge that shows itself i^ithin the Swal-
low's Tail, and the cluster of sunken rocks that lie half a mile N. N. E.'from Long Island
Point, and these are 5 teet under water at low spring tides. In the northern part of the
bay the bottom is a stiff clay, and vessels ill provided with gear have otlen rode out tha
severest gales there; and under Long Island, opposite the beach, is good anchoraget "
even locking in the northern end of Long Island with Swallow's Tail: the groundher*
is a strong mud, and you will ride safe and unaffected by sea or wind from any qtuntnr.
Further to the southward, and on the eastern coast of Great Manan, are the £|l|al(,
Islands ; here a pilot will be necessary, for though the ground is good about'Oreat
Island, yet t .ire are dangers which, when the tide becomes high, are completely l^ii^ld
To the south-westward of Duck Islands, are the Islands of Ross, the northern '
which is scarcely separated iVom .Manan, Cheney's Island, and White Head Islana}'t
are connected together by a sandy and rocky reef of foul ground, which extendaj
W. to the Diamond Rocks — of which we siiall speak hereafter. On White Head ul
resides an able and active pilot, and the cove opposite to his house is comftUMQilf. M
resort for vessels employed in the fisheries; but with easterly winds, thi» »» i .
place. At the western side of Koss Island is part of what is called Gfrand Htilrbidrt It l»>,
a shallow muddy basin ; but vessels may enter and lie securely in it, on the mud; a.jfMni* '
venience somewhat desirable, should you have lost your anchoigsand cables onanyof ttM
outer ledges: the entrance to this place has 4, 5, 6, and 7 fathoms water, with a tiVtyvf
bottom; the chaimel is narrow, but secure from the sea. " a
A little to the westward of White Head Island arc the Green Islands, ana to the Mttt
ward of the Green Islands, about one mile, are the three Kent's Islands, these latter I
low and ledgy ; the e^istern, or largest one, is bold to the rocka, which are at all timeal
be seen ; and to the N. Westward of these rocks is a ledge called the Constable, whk
dries at low water; under the lee of these and the Greeu Islands, occasional aflchoragiBr^''';;
may be obtained in from 14 to 7 fathoms. *
WOOD ISLAND lies off the southern part of Grand Manan, and is one mile and
three quarters long ; it runs parallel to the south-west head of Manan, and forms an ex-
cellent liarbor between; the upper part of this inlet, and the head of it, afford most secure ,
anchorage ; and the inhabitants about Seal Cove and Red Head, will furnish you with
all necessary supplies you may stand in need of, for these places are all well settled.
THE MANAN IiEDGES are those more distant islets, rocks, and dangers, which
lie to the southward of Grand Manan ; the outer and most dangerous-of these istheOM
Proprietor; covering a space of half an acre at low water, and drying at half ebb; but
when covered the tide sets <lirectly over it. at the rate of 4 miles an hour. It lies S. 4
E. distant 9^ njiles from Great J)uck Islaiid ; S. by ¥.. nearly 7 miles from the norih
«?astern part of White Head Island; E. ; S. d? miles fVom the Gannet Rock; S E. by
E. 4 leagues from the south west head of .Manan ; N. N. W. ^ N. 18^ miles from Brisr
Island Lighthouse; N. N. W. J W, Iri miles from the northern entrance to the Grand
Passage; N. W. J W. \d>\, miles from the Petit Passage ; West 35 miles from theGiJ^
Mi Annapolis ; and S. W. 15 leagues iVom tho li^htlionse on Partridge Island.
About 21 miles N. E. 1 N. from the Old Proprietor is the (.'lerk's Ground; a rocky
shoal of 4.J fathoms. N. \\'". by N. one mile and two thirds from the Old Proprietor,
is Crawley's Shoal, of 7 feet only: and west of the Crawley, one mile and a half, is the
Rans' of 5 feet. The Ro, ring Bull bears N. \ E. from the Old Proprietor, distant 4
miles ; and, although it has d fathoms over it, it usually has a heavy dangerous ripple.
The marks to go clear to the eastward of all these dangers, is 'he north-easternmost high-
land of Manan well open of the Long und Duck Islands ; tlie mark to lead to the south-
ward of them is the south-west head of Mauau open to Kent's Tlu'ee Islands. In eaat>
erly winds the tide-rips arc impassable. ^
■M
132
BI-! ;\tV AMERICAN TOAST PILOT.
ThpfP nif also ofh^'r rocks within these ; a rinige of which lie south of the south-west
point of VViiite He;til Island ; some of these have deep water between them, and occasion
a cnntinuiil ripple time miles fro-n the shore, quite home to the h)ng point; these are
called the Tinker, 'I'liree Diamonds, Rans, and many others without names ; some of
these show thems;'lves, olliers have only A and 4 feet water over thern."
S. S. E i S. alxHit llirec quarters of a mile from the southern point of the Three Is-
lands is a knoll called the Kent, it is dan<i;emus and has only 7 feet water over it ; it bears
about W. N. W. .', W. from the Rans, an<i is not inchuled within the confines of the mark
given to avoid the danj^ers tu the sdiitliward, vi/,. the- S. W. head opeii of all the
islands. There is also a danger said to lie S. '•> 4 S. from the Kent Knoll, distant 2 miles,
and VV. S. W. 'i S. one mile and a (piaricr from the Hans, but this is doubtful.
THE G.VJSf.NKT ROCK, on which is a li-^hthDnsc, is forty feet above water, and lies
S. W. by S. distant .3! miles from th(- sontlierii point of the Three Islands, and S. S. [•].
6} miles ftom the S. W. head of the < iiaiid Maiian ; it has a number of small ledges ntid
8unken,rock8 about it, which are always breakins; : this stands conspicuous, bcini,' in the
imilfiediate vit^nity of all the sunken rocks and dangers. Nearly \V. S. W. from tlie
Gurnet, tKsfaitt one mile and a half, is St. Mary's Ledge; part of which is always above
water; and to the northward of St Mary's Led^e, one mile, is the Long Ledge, e(pially
visiMc; between ant] around these are numerous ro;ky shoals, with deep water between
them, rendering this'part particularly dangerous. Other reefs are supposed to exist to the
WCfStward, and between the G?innet fledges and the Machias Seal Islands; their imagi-
■l^ry situations are marked od'the Chart, but no further particulars of ihem are known.
THE THREE MACHIAS SEAL ISLANDS he W. S. W. from the S. W.
id of MaiKtti, distant about 9 or 10 miles ; they have channels between them, with 10,
iSO, and 30 fathoms round them. A sunken rock is said to lie to the N. Eastward,
liMireeQ thena and •fifiinan ; but its exact position is not ascertained. Mariners na-
ig^Ats part shotfld iieep a good look out, lor re|)ort places many dangers herea-
8011M bf. which probahlyi have existence, and might otherwise be attended with
ll^Dces' tjiie most fataj.
'^•Mtthor lies ab%ut 4 miles to the eastward of Bliss Island, and is above a mile
I'jji&trance, with 10 fathoms water on each side, and 'JO fathoms mid-channel.
_ keep the western sliore on board, until you bring the (Joal Rock to bear cast,
^tl^ilt half a mile, Where you may author in 1 or .5 fathoms, good holding ground.
"'' life 'no regular pijots, but the lishermen on the coast are well (|ualilied for the task,
in clear weather they are not absolutely necessary, yet strangers to the place
moat probably requ^e tHeir assistance. There are several rivulets running into va-
pttrts of the harbor, but th^re is no convc nient watering place.
?!iltt'ng- Harbor is situated to the southward of the Magagadawe, and runs info the north-
totetwam of Campo Bello ; before it lie many islands. There are three entrances into
ihairttor, so that vessels may go iu or out at any time. The western entrance leads
Id' LftTcte Harbor, where anchorage may be obtained in from 10 to 5 fatJioms, but there
' ^nu passage for ships round the northern end of Payn's island. The channels between
Pa^d^'a and Bligs Islands are considered to be the best; as they will admit of vessels
■Woifchlg through them ; but the leaRtern passage inquires a leading wind. A pilot will
l)i'Jlft'(fte9Sary oa account of the intricacies of the chatmel, but one can easily be obtained
tUS^ where on the coast; water can be procured in various places. The Bay is extensive,
» (ecure, and well sheltered, having good anchorage throughout.
^ .■ ST. ANDREW'S HARBOR lies on the eastern side of the entrance of the River
'^^coodic, and has two entrances-; the eastern one is narrow and intricate, but is the deep-
^^r, having 4 or 5 feet at low wrtter: the (Lingers in entering through this passage area
teef of rocl|8 with a beacon on it, extending nearly tluee quarters of a mile from Navy Is-
land, and a reef of sand and large stones with a pole or it, extending nearly two miles
from the block house ou the main laml; the narrowest part of the channel is not more
than a cable's length; the mark for entering is to keep the town of St. Andrews open,
•and steer directly in for the harbor. In the bay, in general, there are from 17 to 2,5 fa-
thoms water.
Up"'
• The Briti.sh Ship Alert is said to h^'ve d'sc iverc'l ua additional rock, upon which (hat vessel
struck in 18-0, not noticed on any Cii:iri : b .■ iliat ship's account it is said to lie S. S. E. \ S. distant
6 or 7 miles from the S. W. end of Wliiic llfi\<\ Island; N. by VV. distant 17 miles from Brier's
Island Lighthouse ; and distant II milep fio n the west end of the Grand Mannn ; and named by
the fishermen, Sliand's Rock ; we cannot lio!p noticing tiic discordancy of the above bearings and
distances, and arc apprehensive there is sonif error in the account ; at any rate if this dansrer is not
the Old Proprietor, it nuist be situated some whore not far distant from it ; and forms an additional
Stimulus for the vigilance of the mariner.
\
ttmm
BUNT S AMERICAN COAST PII-OT.
133
\\^^ '
The wpsfprn entrance is not so difficult, but hi^", less water than the eastern, the bar
being dry at the last (juarter ebb. A dangerous reef of stones, with a floating beacon on
it, lies olf the west end of Navy Island. In steering you must keep close to the northward
of the two poles on the bar, where at high water you will have from IH to 20 feet water.
There is a Harbor Master and branch pilots belonging to St. Andrews, and large ves-
sels should never attempt to enter without having one of them on board. High water
lOh. 4;)m. C'ommon tides rise i,'4 feet; s|)ring tides .30 feet.
(iKNKRAL DIKKCTIONS AM) KKMARKS FOR SAILING TO AND
WITHIN THK BAY OK FINDV.— .Ships navigating the Bay of Fundy have to
encounter an atmosphere almost constatiliy enveloped in dense fogs, the tides setting
with great rapidity over the rocks and shoals with which it abounds, and a difficulty of
obtaining anchorage on account of the depth ; so that, under these circumstances, the
most unremitting attention is n'(|uisite to prevent the disastrous consequences which
must necessarily attend a want of knowledge and caution.
When you are oHCape .Sable with a westerly wind, and destined for the Bay of Fun-
dy, it will be advisable to make for the coast of tlie L'liited States, somewhere about
the Shuttock Hills, orTit IManan Lighthouse, as you can pass with^gpel^ipr safety tp the
westward oftirand Manan than to the eastward, having also, if necessary, shelter in Pe-
tit Kiver, Machias, Passama(|iiod(ly. Klaiig. or jjeaver Harbor, &C/ ' ^
Between (iraiid Manan and the State otMaine the passage is free f|;on} danger; ves-
sels beating through generally stand iVom side to side, particularly during' fogs, the depth
being from Iv.' to 70 fathoiris, with a bold shore on each side, and the tide through strong
and regular. The Wolves may be passed on either side, having deep water close tbtheifti;
but they afford no sheltered anchorage, except for small fishing vessels intutnmer i
they are from Go to 100 feet high. With light winds, a lee tide, of thick weather^,
may let go an anchor any wliere between the Wolves and B'et^^ju Harbor, in goOd ho|
ground, with a depth of JO or ■J5 fathoms. Point Lepreaufi^iniM to, but InngeV-,
dark we;!ther, as it projects so far out to the seaward : ^utYtoIb t^nce t^S^t Johfl^
course is free from dangers, except those wliic^h lie near iju^Mtd^ apd which hftf
described in i)age 1:29. ^5p" ' */■ V-
When steering between (Jrand Manan and Brier's Islands ine Utihost cstftiMi^
site during thick weather, as vessels are fre(|uently drawn in among the isliiidBaild
to the southward of Manan, by the flood setting directly upon them; the roost dttl
ous of these is the Old Proprietor, which, at low water, dries for the space of
acre. When the wind, therefore, veers at all to the southward, make the betftdf
way to St. John's Harbor, or you may secure an anchorage in prand Passage or^^
ry's Bay, as it seldom blows in that direction above 18 hours without bringing (^ sl
There is no difficulty in going through Annapolis Gut, if you have but acommaik
breeze, although the tide is very rapid, the flood and ebb running 5 knots an hour,-)
the eddies strong: about one-third through lies the Man of War Rock, about acattbi^
length from the eastern shore; therefore, if you keep mid-channel, you will bO'iAirelil'J
clear it.
The prevailing winds here, and tliroughout the whole coast of Nova Scotia, are frbifi t^
W. S. \V. to S. W. nearly as steady as trade winds, except .during tlie summer ir^pn^^lli^ w
when thev become rather more southerly, accompanied with but little intermia9lotf%r^|
fog, which requires a N. Westerly wind to disperse. It is therefore recommended iNlt
to leave an anchorage, without making proper arrangements for reaching another bdfonr
dark, or the appearance of a fog coming on, which with a S. W. wind is so sudden, thkt
you become enveloped wiihin it una-' ares : neither should you keep the sea at night, ii
you can avoid it. But you will observe that, whenever the wind blows directly off the
land, the fog will soon disperse.
TIDKS. — The tides at the entrance and within the Bay of Fundy are very rapid, but
regular, and although the wind against them alters the direction of the ripplings, and
sometimes makes them daniierous, jet if has little or no effect upon their courses. The
flood tide sets from Cape Sable to the N. Westward, through the *Seal, Mud, and Tus-
ket Bald Islands, at the rate of 2 or ,} miles an hour; and in the channels amonj; the
islands, it increases to 4 and 5 miles ; from thence taking the direction of the main land,
it flows past Cape St. Mary, and then N. N. W. towards Brier's Island : it runs up St.
Mary's Bay but slowly, which adds to its strength along the eastern shore ; then in-
creasing its rapidity as the bay contracts, it rushes in a bore into the Basin of Mines, and
up Chignecto Bay ; so that here the water sometimes rises to the extraordinary height
of 75 feet. ^ .
* On the western Seal Island, two lighthouses are erected, as mentioned in pages 136, and 13fi|.
■■
I
134
blunt's amkkica.n coast pilot.
To tlie above may be adder! the additional observations : " The great volume of fre»h
water which constanily Mows down the Harbor of St. John, in April and May, causes a
Continual (!bb-lide, durins; that period, sotnetinies to the depth of nearly 5 fathoms, under
which the llood and ebb-tides llow rcj^ularly ; the maximum of its velocity was found to
be four knots and u half, and the iiiininium at two knots ; but as the lo^ floated very deep
in the fresh water, and ultimately sunk into the salt water, underneath, it will not be too
much to estimate the maximum at live knots, and the minimum at two knots and a (piar-
ter. The f ict of the under-tide beninninf,' al the depth of nearly 5 fathoms was ascer-
tained by sinking a lead down to that depth, when it was earrieil the same way as the
current on the surface; but when lowered below that, it was drifted in a contrary dircc-
tiou.
"Between Brier's Island and the opposite northern coast, and for some distance up the
bay to the eastward, the first of the llood sets stroiiijly, nearly north, so tliat it will be ex-
tremely dangerous for a vessel to run in the nii^ht, or durinii thick weather, tVoin any
£art of the southern towards any psirt of the nortliern coast, without inakint; a large al-
iwance (or^httjtet of the tides, and kee|)in:i 't"" I*5'kI constantly going; the .iaseur, Cap-
taia Napief) was nearly run on shore, having been drifted by this tide in a fog, eight miles
and a half in th|ee hours and ten minutes."
COAST OF THE UIVITED 8TATES.
I logo to the eaM^rd of the Island of* Cam vo Bcllo, between the said inland and
!'* -e the \ Wolf hlarui, and uj> the Bay oj Xl'assamaquoddy.
gi^ratE BAY OF P ASSAM AQUODDY abounds in good anchoring places, well
"fed ftom all winds, apd divides the T 'nited .States from that of the British territo-
ilie -WiBstern side of which is distinguished by a lighthouse on West Quoddy Head,
tt^'(M) feet above tbjp level of the sea, and may be seen 7 leagues in clear weather.
Ihbws a fixed light. »Ifbound to the river of Passamaf|uoddy, in a large vessel, your
It way is to go to the eastward of Campo Bello, kee|)ing your course N. K. by E.
khvill carry you to the Wolf Islands, distant about 3 lea,i,'-ues. The Wolves lie about
' •CAMPO BELLO LIGHTHOUSE.— The followinK bearings were taken from the top of it.
TVl the East Point of Grand Mnnan, (Fish Head) S. 18 dcg. E. or S. by E. 1.2 E.
, To &e southernmost of the Wolves, S. 6G dee. 30 E. or E. S. E.
To the northernmost do. S. 87 deg. E. or E. ^ S.
To Point Lepmu N. 84 dep. E. or E. t N.
T(» entrance <fl!%aver Harbor N. 70deir. E. or E. N. E. i E.
To the "White Horse Island, the top of the Rock, which is white, N. 45 deg. E. or N. E. This
yaa leave on the starboard hand.
Spruce Island bearing from N. 6 Acs. E. to N. 15 de^- W.
. To Bluck R(»ck, very dangerous, N. (11 <l. tr. 30 W. .y: N. W. by W. \ W.
To Casco-Bay Island. N. 3.3 deg. W. or W. ^ N.
tThe Wolves, or Wolf Island, wiiirh lie 9 miles to the N. E. from Grand Manan, are from 60
to 100 feet in height, steep and bold. Tlie piissiujcs between iheniar" deep, and theyafl'ord tempo.
rary shelter, in the depth of from 20 to 1^ fathoms. Between \ianm> and these islesi the depths vu.
ryfrom 70 to40fu;hoin9, bottom of ooze ami mud. Between the Wolves and he island of Cum;)o
Bello there is a depih of from GO to 100 finlioms : With the latter bearing S. .S. E. or S. E. there is
a depth of 19 and 20 fatlmms, where ships may anciior safe from all winds. The course thence to
Moose Island is W. fc. W . 2 Irairnes.
t There are three rivers wliieli iViil into Passamaquoddy Bay: the largest is called by the modern
Indians the Pcoodia, but by Demons and Cliamplains, Etchemoiis. Its main source is near Penob.
scot river. The mouth of the river hii.»f 25 fathoms water, and the land is very bluft'.
In November, 1817, the commissioners appointed by the respective governments under the treaty
of Ghent, (the last treaty of peace,) decided that Moose, Dudley, and Frederic Islands, in the Bay
of Passamaquoddy, do belontf to the United S'p'cs; and that all the other Islands in the same bay,
with Grand .Manan, in the Bay of Fuiuly, do belong to Great Britain, by virtue of the treaty of
peace of 1783. The citizens of the United States continue to enjoy the privilege of navigating
through the ship channels between Deer Island and Campo Bello.
!,■ '
BLUNT H AMKRICAiV COAST I'lLOT.
135
N. E. This
K. N. E. fronrf'aiTi|>o Hello, on tlie noitlieiist point of which is a h^htlioiise showing
a fixed hght, and the lantern is f)() (eet al)ove liii;h water marit, — it is placed between the
Main Ship Channel and the northern entrance into Head Harbor, and within 'J50 feet
of the extreme point. Shi|)s in enterint; into tlie main channel, or vessels bound to
Head Harbor, may safely pass at a cables length from the lighthouse. In sailing tip the
main channel, care should be t^ken not to keej) far from the shores of Campo Bello, as
the flood tide sets directly over from the point at the lighthouse, to the islands and ledges
on the north side of the channel, which is here upwards of a mile in width, and at two
hours flood the tide sets directly towards the l)la«;k liock, which is a very dangeroun
ledge between Spruce and Casco May Islands, u|)on which several vessels have beei.
wrecked; after passing up and leaviiii; tlic lii>ht about a mile to the eastward, the l.i'.e
becomes more regular, and sets along the direction of Campo Bello shore.
Comnuni tides rise here '-'.') feet. At lull and change it is high water at half past 11
o'< lo<jk at Moose Island, and runs, when strongest, between Moose Island and JTar' lii
Island, and between Deer Island and Campo iiello, nearly 5 miles an hour. ^ In th \H i*,-
ern passag*-, common tides rise from 20 to '25 feet, and within Pa9sama<tfH|^dy 1' ./ '.}xe
stream of tide is scarcely perceptible. ^^f^JK
Vessels from the southward, when bound up for this bay, shoujj^nake for the west ;
ern coast, or that of the I'nitetl Slates, as if is the most clear, an djfln|ood m. »t favora-
ble, being from 7 to H miles wide: boi!\ shores bold, the depth^Ql^^y iDcreusing, tfn
each side, from 1"J to 70 and 7f> fathoms; the greatest depth neair Grand Manan, where
you haul quickly from 10 to 7") fathoms.
There are three passages into Passama(nu)ddy Bay, namiyy, the Western Tvutige,
tiie Ship Channel or Middle Passage, and the Eastern Passage. ThejiirK: i> dl*t.^§>
tween the isle of Campo liello and the main land to the west. Middle Passage Hi
tween Campo Hello and beer Island , and tin; Eastern Passage is to the eastwav^i
northward of both islands, which is preferred, being of eas-^^^cceaai tyitll good de|
water. ^ '' '^
If bound into the Western Passage, give a berth to thff JBeal Rocks, which are
remarkable rocks that lie about half i mile from West Quotfi^'Head, and, at adUttM
resemble a ship. To the eastward of these, there is a whirlpool. In passing bfM»[
requisite to give these objects a berth of half or three-quarters of a mile before y^jlll
in. After passing them, steer to the westward, keeping nearest to the south H^§ifli,^&^'|
two and a half or three miles, where you may come to anchor in 4 or 5 fathdilttfllrip '
sheltered, either by day or night. You must not proceed higher, as a rocky bariftfeicltfii^
across, which is dry at low water. Here a pilot may be 'obtstined, on firing a gQD»'
making the usual signal, who will take the ship to Snug Cove, ^p-M.opa^ Island, whei
another may be obtained for St. Andrews, or the river of Scoo^. *'
Between the Wolves and the isl.md of Campo Bello there i»^ depth of from 50 to
fathoms. With the light bearing S. S. E. or S. E. there is a^epthof 19 and 20 fatboi
where ships may anchor securely from all winds. The course theuce to Moose
is W. S. W. 2 leagues.
Ort" the N. E. end of Campo Bello. is a remarkable large rock, called the
Rock; and here lies Head Harbor, a secure and safe place, small, but of
and with 6, 7, and 8 fathoms water, muddy bottom.
Harbor Delute lies on the western side of Campo Bello, and at its S. "Sfti end if'l
Cove, a good harbor. Moose Island is on the opposite side of the chattel, aitod;
to the United States. The entrance to Passainaquoddy comprehends a qO}
twelve miles ,1^"V U
If bound for Moose Island up the Biver Scoodic, as you pass Todd's Ht^if^^fwhiciipfc
half a mile N. E. from the town landing on Hasf|)ort,) give it a berth of halfa mile, tti'i
ledge of rocks lies ofl^ it. Having passed this Head, the course and distance to Oak Poiot
or Devil's Head, will be N. by W. H leagues; in going which distance, (24 iniles,) you
pass Fross' Ledge on your larboard hand, six miles from Todd's Head, and 'three-quar-
ters of a mile from the land ; when continuing your N. by W. course 5 leagues, you will
come to Robinstown, two miles above which, oft' a small island, from which it bears N.
E. is a shoal on your larboard hand, and to avoid it you tnust keep your starboard hand
best on board, till ybu come uj) with Neytra4 Island, which you leave on your larboard
hand, one-fourth of a mile distant ; and your course from this to the Devil's Head, (be-
fore mentioned,) which you leave on your larboard hand, is N. N. W. '^ nnles. When
you have passed the Devil's Head, your course is W. N. W. 1 league, when you will
come to a large ledge of rocks that you must leave on your larboard hand, which is bare
at two hours' '.*bb, and extends halfway at-r iss the river. Keep your starboard hand oh
board, and when you pass this ledge, your course is \V. S. W. distant one mile to Turn-
er's Point, and from said point to the harbor, your course is N. W. by N. distant three
iniles, and the next reach to the Falls is W. N. W. distant one mile; the tide flows here
HWP
136
BLUNT S AMKKKAN COAST IMI.OT.
25 feet, and there are only 6 or 7 feet in thi- cliaimt'l at low water, with long flats of iniirl
on both sides. The Devil's Head may lie si-eri at ihi' distance of 10 or I'.' miles.
There are several good harhors on tin* west side of this rivt r, and all the ditficnily in
the great depth of water, which is, in utMierai, from IH to V.M fathoms. There is also a
pood harbor on your starboard hand going into Deer Island, whirh lies to the sonthward
of St. Andrews, 2 leagues distant, it may lie easily known, as there is a large Imy he-
tween the two islands, which lies N. K. from the river St. Croix, ;{ leagues distant.
•GRAND MANAN AND MUUNT DKSKKT 111 LI..S.— These places may ea-
sily be known from the western coast. Mount D» -rt llills may be seen 'JO leamirs at
sea, and when within 4 or 6 leagues of them, you i see .Scutloc Hills bearing aliout
N. N. E. The tide of flood sets here E. N. K. and .t ebl) W. S. \V. but as soon hs
you are 9 or 10 leagues from the land, the current run. ;n general to the .S. W. westward.
>■'
• GnAND ManaMt— This island, MJ niiics in Iciiijth, by 7 in brrndtii, is includnl in Chnrloito
County, in the prwrince of New Bninswick. Its nciriluiii |i(iiiit is in liiiitiidc -I l'^ '>4' inul luiit'itiuhi
6(io m^. The nnareat distance, from ihr opposite const of Mniiir, is nearly 9 niilos. The western
side is very high; its clifls beiiif; nearly perpeiKJiriiliir, and nioiit GOO leet hlf,'h above the level di"
the sea. On this side viuiut one little inlet, (Dark Cove,) wliicli iill'ords shelter lor lioats only. The
northern head is equaUiSlbrupt and bold ; but to the eastward ut'it is Whale Cove, having anchor.
;'V. ing ground, with 25 ^K* fathoms, in which ships may stop tur u tide during a soullitrly gale, but
'*'•:>/- Jt is exposed to the etttA^y gales.
To the S. E. of WjiVe Cove, on the N. E. side of the island, is Long Island Bay, so called from
^ the itland on the S. E. siu ■ of it. The N. E. i.oin; of this bay, called, from its shiijie, the Swallow's
i/'vT«uli is high, bold, rugged and barren. The bay is open, but possesses nil the adwiiitajrcs ot a
^ittrbor; the bottom is wholly of mud, excepting a rid^^e rf rocks and gravel, 'hat shows iiseUWitliin
^.;|||^.8waIlovv'8 Tail, and the north end of Long Island : tlieui.' also, u smidl clii. cr of suiike;i rocks,
i;i^ftto^et at low water, at half a ntile from Loii;; Isiiunl Point.
'^^^^VaitflJ6x^g Island, and opposite to the beacli, shijis niny anchor, ovrn locking in the nnri i end
' V«f li«jb.lsii|lfl with the Swallow's Tail, on a strong muddy bottom, entirely sheltered from il:e wiird
''MM94e% tn the northern part of the Bay, bottom of stilf ul:iy, vessels have frc(juendy been jirutcctcd
:'l^ac« severe gale.
■i*%(ra^miydown, on the eastern coast of Grand Manan, is Gieat Duck Island, under which there
liffil^OOd ground; but hern a pilot may be required, as there are hidden dangers in lliu vicinity. To
r%;yJ&jlouth-eaatward of Duck Island lie Ross, Cheney, and White H>iid Islands ; the latter occunieii
't^N.,l^a skiUuJ and intelligent pilot : from these the rocks and foul ground extend 3 leagues to the S.
On the Boiitljem bank of Grand Manan, the most dangerous ledge is that called the Old Proprie.
J)*, which lies two leaguesS. 8. E. from Wliite Head Island, and covers the space of half an acre at
water ; it is 'dry athalf-ebb. When covered, the tide sets directly over it, at the rate of tour
<ni)e8 anhour. At three mil^ more to the S. E. is nnotlicr siioal. Clerk's (Jround; and east from it,
E'f Bflfrfy four miles, lies the Roaring Bull, a bnnK of 8 fathoms, over which is a heavy and dangerous
;>4l$pple. The S. W. head of Manan, open of all the islets otl'the south side of that island, will lead
,:'el«ar to the southward of these dangers. The north. easternmosl high land, open of the islets on the
': .*ast, laads clear to the eastward of them. During an easterly wind the tide-rips are impassable.
■ The Three. Islands, (Kents,) the southernmost oC the Manan Islets, are low and Icdgy. The cast.
.•«ni ti<|« "f'hslrtlfT* is bold to the rocks, which are at all times visible. Uif the N. W. of 'liese rocks
•; feia le^ge calmf&e Constable, dry at low water. These islets, with Green Islets to the northward of
,them, aflbrd ociiuional anchorage, in from 14 to 7 fathoms.
;,. Wood Island, on the south side of Manan, and the S. W. end of the latter, form a bay containing
^^^JI^ellAnt ground. The ugper part and head of it, in a gale of wind, are jilaces of security ; and here
'isupplies, if requisite, may be obtained from the inlinhitaiits.
Between Wood Island on the west, and Ross Jsl? id on the east, is the passage to Grand Harbor,
■ a shallow muddy basin. It is a convenient place for ships without anchor or cable, as they may lie in
the mud, in perfect security. At the entrance, which is narrow, the depths are from 7 to 5 fathoms,
bottom of clby.
W, by S. } S. from Grand Manan lie the Western Seal Islands. On the western island two light.
houses are erected, showing fixed lights, distant from each other about 140 feet, in the direction of
E. S. E. and W. N. W. by which they are distinguished from ail other lights upon the coast ; they
are elevated about 50 feet above high watermark. From the westernmost of tliese lighthouses the
following bearings were taken;
To the southernmost of the Murr Ledges, E. S. E.
To Gannet Rock Lighthouse, E. by S. i S: about 12 milts.
To N, E. Rock, N. E. by N. about Ij mile.
To southern head of Grand Manan, E. by N. J N,
To West Quoddy Lighthouse, N. N. E.
To Little River Head, N. by W.
To Libby Island Lighthouse, N, W, by W.
To south point of Kent Island, (on tlic chart three isles,) East.
!-</
BLUM' 9 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
137
Ifyou fall in with Muuiit Desert Kock, which lies S. d leiif;u<^" froni Mount Desert
Hillai. J'uii must observe the tiile of tlouil ttets W. tS. W. itloii;; shore, till ^ou coirin to
the Fox islands; but the same Ihtod runs U|> to the northwurd, into iijue Hill liny,
Union River, and 'Isle-un-haut Hay.
The next remarkable land ts I'enobscot Mills, which ynu will see over the l<'ox islimiis,
bearinj; iVom the N. W. to the N. i\. W. of them. When you pass the isle-au-haut,
in steering W. >S. VV. you will leave fMantinicus Islands, and Mantmicus .Seal Islands to
the southward of you. If at ni^ht, or thick weathei, it is advisable to i;o to the south-
ward of all these islands, unless you are well aL'(|uaiiited. When you pass to the nest-
ward of Mantinicus Islands, the main passage trom sea to Peinibseut Hay lies about ^<.
by W. If yuu go into this [lassnge, you leave Mantinicus Island ou your starboard, iipd
tile two (ireen lsl;<nds on your larboard hand, steering; north-westerly 4 leagues; and if
bound up the bay, follow your directions for I'enoiiscot Hay.
If you come in from sea, and make th*' island of Manheigen, on which is a lighthouse,
(described hereafter,) when it bears N. or N. N. W. it appears like two islands, bu^
when it bears east hr west, it appears in one island. Oaniiscove Island^ lie to the W. by
N. of it, which are all bare of trees, except the north part. The rocks called Uanta)n
I^edgc, lie two miles from Damiscove, VV. S. W.; when you arc 6 or 7 leagues «lf at
sea, you will have 70 or 80 fathoms water, with a S. S. W. cutrent. In general, be-
tween Damiscove and Manheigen Island, the Hood tide parts, a]^sets E. N. K. to the
eastward, and VV. 8. VV^ to the westward, as far as the island (ff.'Seguine, and to the
northward up to Broad liay, Sheepscut, and Kennebeck rivers, and;tbe ebb setq the coi^t
trary way. rp-.
MACHIAS TO jPASSAMAC|i;ODI)V.— When you leave Mhchigs, and are
to Passamaquoddy, briiijj lJr;iss Island to bear S. W. by W. and steer N. E. by E. \ S*
tant *) leagues to West Passaiiia(|Uoddy lighthouse, nearwhich iaan'ALARiiBiCLl.t^
will, during foggy weather, strike ten times in a minute, unle'iw neglected, whicbdj
often the case, as the machinery is out of order, and it is nownruug by hand ; hx0
rung, the sound may, when calm, be heard live miles. But if tlte ffiud ti)kee jfOQ' '
eastward, there is a good harbor, about two leagues to the N. £. of Cross Islsqd.
harbor bears due west from the middle of Grand Manaaislan.!, and is called Li
but you cannot see it except you are near the north shore. You must not mtr jl|§<j
before it bears N. VV. or N. N. W. There is a bliitf point of rooks op the A«)|i^r4
hand, as you go in, and an island in the middle of the harbor. As you palu io, leayB.lliS 'M
island on yoi|r larboard hand, and when you have passed it half a mile, you may Wl^ilM^li
in 4 or 5 fathoms, muddy bottom, and remain safe from all winds, Your, course f)roratlli|^
harbor to West Passaii)a(|uod(ly light, is N. E. by E. ^ E. distant 7 leagues. W"
you come from the S. W- '»>J arc bound into VVest Passamaquoddy, you must give
fcjeal Rocks, before n^entioned, a berth of three-quarters of a m.le; before you hai|l in fof"*!
the harbor, as there is a whirlpool to the eatst ward of them. ¥he bay is about one leagtie ■
from this poiiit ; it is high water here, at full and change of the moon, about lUb. 4^9.
There is a good bay that lies about W. S. W. from this point, three-quarters of a Qii)« >;^
distant, where you may anchor ; but it is not safe for any stranger to go over the bar wit^^ia
out 9 pilot, which may be easily obtained. Thr bar bears N. N. W. from the aijcl:
ground, three-quarters of a mile distant.
When up as far as Al|en's Island, if you leave it with the tide of flood, MJrdr N. N. J(^^1
3 miles, when you will have the tide against you four hours ; and two hoars before h^^
water the tide sets S. S. W. till you come down to the Collector's Island, when it MlS .
over the barS. S. I^. The tide rises here twenty-live feet. There is a fine cove on ttoJ
south end of Moose Island, where a ship of 500 tons may lie, moored head and Bteri& ^
safe from all winds, but the anchors are very much exposed with the wind to the f|puti)T '
east. ,- '^W
• The Isle-au-haut is remarkable land, composed of high steep clifls, and malces with a large bay
on each side of it ; has good landing on its eatitcrn end, and anchorage half a mile ofl*, in 18 fath.
oms, with the low point bearing about N. E. by N. where is also a stream of water running ii)^ th%
sea. The highest part of the island is in the middle, and represents a saddle.
t Mantinicus Kock Lights are at both ends of a dwelling house. Tiie houpe is 40 feet in length
find 30 feet in breadth, to which the lights are attached, and are both fixed lights. Height of the
lantern above the level of the sea, S'2] feet. The course from this to Maiiheigan Light is y^, ) N,
distant 8) leagues. [See mention of these lights page 142.}
} West Passamaquoddy lighthouse contains a fixed light, as before mentioned, page 134, situated
on West Quoddy Hei^d, 90 feet above the level of the sea, and may be seen at a distanoe of 8«y§|)
{eagves in clear wcat^^r.
18
mtm
l.s
BLUNT H AMKUICAN COAST f'Ik.OT.
*T1TMANAN.— Ill c«iiiinii fnmi iIm- wf»iwiiril, IxmiikI to I'ipptm IlitI, or Ro»hr,ir
Ilarhoi, Ijiiri^ tli<> li):lit In Iomi S. W. .iikI miii toi il, ^iviii); it a tjcilli dI <iiifl<iiiii|| oi a
mile, aiid lluii hlifi N. ' W. J iiiilt's: iti Hii-ninit' iliis nmiM', j<)U will leavr (lie Kjfg
]{i>ck oil xiiir stailxiniil r:iii(l, win ii vou will iiiiikr llit- wislcil)' flicur, ftiviiiK il ;i herili
of liiiK'n mile; llini flfcr N. N. Jl. \)i\v inih-, wluii yon will bi- oppoBitt Djer's Hounc,
where you iiiiiy aiiehoi f.wv lioiii all wiiiiU in ;< tatlioniN water.
In eimiin^ Iroin the eaNiwanI, hoiiml to Dyer's iti-y, cive 'rilinannii Inland liglit ilirfe-
fourths o( a mile benli, leaviiii> it on your .viaiJMiunl In ml ; hrinj: llip li);hi to hear N. K.
threc-lourllis ot a mile di.slanl, ihtii vteeriN. I'y \V. w Im li will tarry >oii into the inonih
of the hay, leaviiig a lari;e dry ledj;e on your larhoard hand: when ahreaMi of ihls ledj;e,
which i« bold lo, j'.ive it u berth ol ') ort) rodn, then oleer iN. }, K. 4 or 5 iiiik-!), where you
may anchor sale iVom all uiiuis, in 4 or') lailuiM", muddy bottom.
GoldHhorouiiih Ilail)or lies N. .N. U. l-oni '1 itmanan li;!hlhiiiise, two lraj;iip« disinni,
Icavinja; one island, covered with trees, on your .siarl>oaitl hand, and two nn \oiu larlioard
hand; then your cour.-n is N. N. Vv . 1 ' mile, then .N. ' J".. J miles, whn h will brini;
you up with (ioldsborotigh I'oint, where you may uiithoi sale from all windb, in 3 or 4
iiptttiomis muddy bottom.
'Jo coming lioi^t^ie eastward, bouml to rnis):ert liarhor, uive Tinnanan li»hf a berth
of three-fourths of a mile, brini; it to btar 1,. S. K. iind sict r \\ . iN. W . J leaunes, which
win bring you up wilb the wentern shoie, or l!ii(h Head I larbor. In rnniiiii): the ;diove
COnreei you will leave f Cranberry Keck poini im your starboar<l hand, i\loulf(ni's Lpdt;e,
and the two black ledges on your larboard haml. ^ our course I'roin < 'ranheiry Hock
jint in is N. W. by N. Jn case you !.lioiil(l not make the | omt, conti'iiie your course
^ N. W. until youmakr; the western nhore, nivin^; it a heilh of half a mile, then steer
I. N, E. until you open the harbor, then steer N. W. which course will carry you sale
'ton fall in with Chuttock Island, and are bound to i'rospect, Rive it a berth of
Is of a mile, theusteer M. N. K. which conisti will carry you sate into the
*In running this course, you will have the two black leil^es on your starbonid
gWiogthem a berth of three fourths of a mile.
<iaMw» Ledge bears from Titniaiian lighthouse W. by N. 4 miles distant ; this
I bare, except at low tides; straiii;eis should not approach too near it; it lies
^Qpi Goldsborough Harbor. 'I here is a sunken ledge that lies S. E.by E.
Ilightli^use, 12 miles distant, on wliich there is but i> feet at low water.
Il W. 4 miles distant from tlie lighthouse, lies a sunken ledge, on which there are
Set at low water.
JpUNT DESERT TO GOLDSHOHOltiU AM) §MACI1[AS.— In going
[ount Desert to Goldsborough, you must steer K. -, N. for HScuttock roint, (our
where is an island, which yeumay pass either side of, but it isbe=t to leav? it on
)oard hand, and tlien steer N. E. about ;V'. leagues, whiih will carry you up with
ttorough Harbor. Vou will see three islands whidi lie in the mouth of the har-
^fdtt must leave them ou your larboard haud, and go in the eastern passage. In
ilding in for this place, you will see Titmanau Island, which has a lighthouse on it.
Iltldmng a fixed light, already described, wlii( h you leave on your starboard hand.
fOCtb from Titmanan^ ona eighth of a mile distant, lies a ledge, bare at hall iide, which
^ou keep w'ithin half a cable's length of \,heu going over the bar, which you pass on
^ttr starboard hand, when bound eastward, at which, as you pass the bar, Scuttock Isl-
w~~. ■ ~~~
.-*Tttmanan Light is a fixed light, elevated 53 feet above the level of the sea, on the south end of
"^e Titihamo Island, near the mouth of Niiiiimumus River ; S. S. W. I'roiii it, 4 miles distant, is a ledge
>iHivingl3 feet at low water; also, S. K. by H. from it is ji diinfrcrous sunken ledge, about H miles
distant, but there is plenty of water inside the sliore ; on the sduiIhtii and northern sides of the island
ire.shoals. Give the island n liertli oi Iiall' a mile. Near the liyiit, nre two good hatl)ors, viz. Dyer's
Bay, and Goldshoiouph Harbor.
t Cranberry Rock licb near linker's Isliind Lifrhi, Criiiiburry Island ami Mount Desert. The
light is'elevated 70 feet above the level of the S(-u, and shows a fixed light, henrin^ K. N. E. froin
Titiltaiian Light, 22 miles distant, and E. N. E. eoateily, from Moose Peck Heud Light, distant 41
miles.
t Mount Desert Islanl is »l)out fifteen miles lonjr, and twelve broad. It is intersected in the mid-
die by the water llowinj; into the south side from the sen. On Mount Denert Rock, six leagues south
from the island is a lighthouse contaiiiins; a fixed lislit, elevaietl .'ilii feet above the level of the ses.
There ate two considerable islands on the 8. E. side of Mount Desert Island, called Cranberry
Islands, wKieli assist in forming a Imrlior in liie (Julf, which ^ts up on the south side of the island.
§ Machias Light House is built on Libby Island, which ^es on the western entrance to Macl.'ias
Bay, 65 feet above the level of the sea, ond contains a fixed light.
H There are five hills on Scuttock, reiiiarkable from any hills in the eastern country, and at a dis-
tance they appear round.
Kea.
this
ni-UNTS AMERKAIN COAST IMI.OT.
139
■nl will b«'a hntidipiUo's lcn;;fh opi-n Id the Miiiiiliwunl of •Sctiffork Point, but to go
over tins bnr rrijiiires w pilnl. W'lifri iiimt tin* liiii, :itiil up wiili 'I'ilncuiiin Isliriil, keep
K. S I",. II If li iT a unit- ili<.! uii, wlm h will rlr-.ir .1 It dt'c Inviny ') It'ct Hater at low wa-
ter, tiiat \\v* K. ol' tlH> cli.uitii-l ;;oin.j ovi-r tlit- It ir, iiiit'-linirlli ol a utile (i itanl. 'I'lu're
i<i a liar that riiti.H IVkiu ilin shore to tins liitln island, tvhich a* about one \> a;;uv from the
lainl. This bar has '.\\ fathouis at liinh water, and ') fret at low w itet.
If you are boiitiil to .Macliias or I' issaMia!|U(Mlilv, your course iVoni Mount Desert is
K. IJ , lea'iui's, which will earry you np with f Mmise I'eek I/ij{lit, which you leave on
your larboard hand; then sieer N. K. by K. lur .Micliius l<it;ht, on liibliy Island, 4;
ieaijues. hi steeriiii; the above i-oures and (l..-.iaiiies, you pa»N by nofhui;; but islandn
on your larlioard hand, with inlets and tmndry uood harbors, pleanant riverM, .SIooho Feck
Reach, and ( 'handler'.s Kiver, which nre all uood harbors, but too intricate to be de-
ncnlifd lur sir,Mi.iers to aiieiii|if with laleiy. Il you cannot steer your courBCd a» above
directed, you must observe, atier passinj; .Moose |*eck Head liiclit, there are three low
islarnis to the .<> W. of (irand .Manan Island, wiiich lie due S. K. from Maciiiati called
Seal Islands, diiiant 4 leagues, tin one of which are two lii^hthoiises. Vou may see the
island ol' (Jrand Manan b leagues belbre you come to it, and when it bears N, E. these
islands run .'<^. W. t'roni (irand .Manan. almiu J Ica^Mies distant, and ill thick weather, if
you make these islands, yon in ly run lor .Mailiias Liu'lii. bringing Ihe S. W. end of
(Jrand .Manan lo bear .S. K. by K. and then run .\. W. by W. (or the entrance of Ma-
cliias, f) leaiiiies distant, atid when you hive passed ('ross Island; which you leave on your
starboard hand, you may steer N. but in passins; CrusH Island, you must be careUll of '
some dangerous led'^es lyiin; otf it 1 ', mile, in a ."^. W. direction. In .steering this course,
you will leave a larije white rock on your larboard hand; and if you do not waotiD go
into .Machias Harbor, you may haul to the wcstw ird. Alter you have paq - *». ,
about half a mile, briii;; a hi^ii round island that is covered with trees tq
you may anchor in 4 ur.'> raihoiiiN, muddy bottom. 'I'his, Is called Jonei
you mean to '^o up to .Madiias you must keep your course N. till you f.,
island on yoiy larboard hand. wIumi you niity shape your course W. N.
W. for a point that is covered witli yoiiii.; birch trees, and a house on it, fS
board hand there is tiotliin*; but llats and shoils. Vou may keep your lar
after you pass this lioii>c, until the river opens to the uorlhward, wbeo yo%iB|P1RW'|l|
to Cross Kiver, where yon may am hor in I lathonis; but if you are boi^l^fr^f^^rotl
W. mills, you must haul away lo the we^t^^,lld. When you get up wiihltff. E|lrti'W*i> \,
house and barn, which are (in the starboar<' band, vou nnist leave the barn opeir.t|i|i»^ |
south-westward of the Pot I Head, 'i'iiis Pott- 1 lea»l is a large hill thatyo^ule^iy^ OA jnliW^V'
starboard hanrl. [For description of (irand .NIanan, see pa^e 1U6.1
IA).\(i l.SLAM) 'lo riJK .-^oirilWK.ST HARBOli.OF MOUNT DE!
— Your course is N. .\. K. distant :!', liHuues. Vou inusl leave the two Duck
on your starboard hand, and t!iree islamls on your larboard hand. It is not safe llkr t .
stranger to run here in tlie nis;ht, as there is a lar^e.liBdge that is covered at high waterji .'
and bare at half tide. Vou leave this ledce on your starltuard hand, whicli is abont OKA
mile from the harbor. There is a lon^ IciLze on the larboard hand, which runs offbatlf j^l
a mile, but 'here is a good turning ; liannel between them. The.^. W. passages fittos/
enter, even with a lar;:e vessel, at low water, keeping nearest tl^ starboard hanpliw yw|i
go in, for there is a long point thai lies aiioiit hail' a. mile off from the larboa^.^ haa^J
When you pass the iioinf^n your larboard hand, you liavp the harbor open, and mtlM^M,
bear up N. W . or W. N. W. and anchor well up the harbor in 5 or () fathoms, mudlhr/^
bottom, whero you may lie sale Inun all winds. If you are in a large vessel, and make
the Isle-au haul, bring it to bear W. by S. and steer K. by N. 10 leagues, which coursi^i
and distance will carry you up tlie eastern passage iroiti;; into Mount Desert, you inust^^
leave all the islands to the nonliward, and lio to the nor! Ii ward of Mount Desert Rock,"
which lies K. .S. K. Irom the Isie-au-li;;iit. S. K. from Long Island, Jind S. from the
Duck Islands. When yon brii::; the harbor to be ir W. N. W. you may steer directly' iu,
for you may go about with a fiist-rat;' man-of-war in this passage. You may steer ih
this c'.iannel, with a fair wind, trom W. N. \V. to W. by N. til' yon come toLangley'd
laland, \vhich lies about one league up the htirbo.s and makes ihe starboard hand of the
and at a dis-
• feiitfock Point forms the etiftern, and Mount Desert the western extreme of Frenchninn's Bay.
+ Moose Pfck Hcnd Litrht is on .M .'^rukc I^lnnd, 51 t'eef nbf)vo the level ci' the sen, and ontaina
a revolving lifrhi : Time of revolution four minutes ; showinp two litdits and two darks; when at
the diftance oi' six league"?, tiuir lime of darkness will hv no loofrer than that of light ; ae you ap.
proach il, the time of dnrkncs-i wiil dccrenso ; witiiin Ci or (> imies it will not wholly dirapprar,
but in the revolution the gr<'a'est power of lijjht will bo as 24 is to 1 at least. The* light beaxs S.
W. by W. i \V. from Libby Island Light-
IMS
-MMImMM
"W
.., .,..,. -ri-wirtCY
140
BLUNT S AMERICA!* TOAST PILOT.
i~
river that nins from tlie N. E. Be careful of this island, as there is a sunken ledge of
rocks abreast of it, near half a mile off. The river above-mentioned has water enough
for aii^ ship fo {;o in, and is a safe harbor.
FOX ISLAND PASSACiE.— On Brown's Head, at the western entrance of Fox
Island thoroughfare, a lii^ht, showing a fixed light, is erected on the Southern Fox Isl-
and, and stands two rods from the shore, and 80 feet above high w ter mark.
The following are the results of observations by compass: — Fiddler's Ledpe bears
from the light, W. | S. distant about 3 miles ; Fiddler's Ledge from Crabtree's Point,
AV. S. W. distance about half a mile. Fiddler's Ledge is above the surface of the water
at two hours' ebb.
Crabtree's Ledge bears from the light W. by S. distant about 14 mile ; Crabtree's
Ledge bears from Crabtree's Point S. W. by S. distant about half a mile. This ledge
may be seen breaking at high water with a little motion.
Inner Dog Fish Ledge bears from the light S. W. distant about 3 miles; Inner Dog
Fish Ledge bears from Crabtree's Ledge S. S. E. distant about 1^ mile.
In running O'om Owl's Head Light* for Fox Island thoroughfare, bring the light to
bear west, and steer E. i S. until you bring the light on Brown's Head to bear E. N. E.,
and then stetr for i' Uiitil you are w ithin one cable's length from the light. In running
thia course, you pass between Crabtree's Ledge and Dog Fish Ledge, leaving Crabtree's
I'^dge on the larboard hand, and Dog Fish Ledge on thfe starboard, which is separated by
B channel 1^ mile broad ; you may then run half a cable's length of either of them.
When abreast of the light, and between tht light and Sugar Loaves, steer N. E. ^ E.
hfpr Young's Narrows. The Sugar Loaves are two high rocks, formed somewhat like
' sugar Ipaves, and are located nearly in the centre of the passage. There is good anchor-
* Age between the Sugar Loavea and light, in 7^ fathoms, at low water.
Tlj» entrance to Young's Point is narrow at low water, off which lies a ledge of rocks,
irliiell.'kre covered at high water. There is also a cjuantity of sunken rocks at the lar-
IiookI hand, near a mile to the W. N. W. which lie ntf the Dumplins. These Dump-
, IS^n. are thvee islands, which you leave on your L.rboard hand. Your course in this
' t^finBizi'iM E. S. E. and W. N. W. keeping your sti'.rhoard hand on board. W hen you
l^il thi* point on your starboard hand, you must keep your starboard hand on board,
aad,«teer E Si JSr about two miles, when you will make Deep Cove on your starboard
¥^ IfiaxiA, which Ues to the ea^.tward of a very high bluff of rocks. If you have neither ca-
L' • iilesnor anchors, you may run into said cove, or secure your vessel witlj t le main or fore-
«h9et, .or come to anchor in 7 fathoms water off the said cove. There the flood meets,
oat. from the W. N. W. the other from the E. N. E. wliich makes an eddy against this
qove and highland ; here yoi may ride safe with any wii When you leave this place,
and are bound to the eastward, yoti steer E. S. E. anu keep your starboard hand on
I^Mrd tili y6\i come upno a clear spot of land, where the trees haVe been cut off. As
Qoon as said sped bears W. S. W. you steer E. N. E. for the middle narrows. When
jou draw near the Narr(»vs, you will see two large white I'ocks in the middle of the pas-
sage, unless at high water, at which time they are covered about one hour, but may be
seen at all other times of tide. You may go on either side, but the deepest water is at
the 'southward of tiiem. . Continue vmir course E. N. fc. about onfe league, when you
nust keep your starboard hand on L jard, as there are several sunken rocks and ledges
'on your larboard hand, which are covered at high water. You will make the eastern
narrows on your starboard hand, and as soon as you britlg it to bear S. S. E. you may
f/s^f nip througli, wliere you will have a fine harbor, which is safe to ride in with all winds
' e\cept at £. N. E. but you may I'emain in the west passage with the wind at E. N. E.or
anchor at the northward of a bar*^ island, that you will see on your starboard hand as you
go back to the westward. When you pass the eastern passage of Fox Island, you must
steer E. N. E. about 4 miles, which course will rarry you into a large bay that lies be-
tween Fox Islajid and the Isle-au-haut. This bay lies N. and S. and about <! leagues
E. an 1 W. When you get into tliis bay from the above-mentioned passajre, and are
bound t--- the eastward of the Isle-an liaut. you may sie^r E. S. E. 6 leagues, which course
Will carry you to the southward of the Isle-au-haut.
When you come from the westward, having j)asscd the island of Manheigen and the
entrance of Penobscot Bay, you may steer E. N. E. which course will cirry you between
the Fox Islands and Mantinicns Islands ; on the latter, at each end of the keeper's
house, a lighthf)iiso is rrected. vhich .shows two distinct fixed lights, sailing coastwise,
north-easterly and south-wc-iierly ; and one light, sailing N. N. \V. and S. S. E. leaving
all the Fox Islands ou your larboard hand, but bring the Isle-au-haut to bear W. N.
* Owl's Head Light is near the entrance of Penobscot Bay, on the larboard hand ; is 147 feet
above the level of the sea, and shows a fixed light.
.Mmt^
i^^aam
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
141
W. !?nd steer E. N. E. 7 leagues to Long Islnnd, which you leave on your larboard
hand. If you are bound to Blue Hill Bay, or I'nion lliver, as soon as you pass Long
Island, you will open a larf;e sound to the N. N. W. which course you are to steer seven
leagues, when you will be up with Robertson's Island, leaving the Shij) and Barge,* on
your larboard hand. Robertson's Island is the only island near that place that has a
house on it. The soutli part of the island i.s clear of trees, on which th« house stands.
When you come near the south part of the island, give it a berth of ihree-tiuarters of a
mile, as theie are several sunken rocks ofl" srid pouit. When you bring this island to
bear from S. W. to N. W. you may anchor in 6 or 7 fathoms water, muddy bottom ; but
•f^ou are bound to Blue Hill Bay, you may stand to the northward direct for the Blue
Hills, which y "U may s'e 10 or 15 leagues off. If you are bound for Union River, you
had better take a pilot at Robertson's Island, for it is not fit for a stranger to go without
one.
CAIMDEN HARBOR. — North-east Ledges bear from the light on Negro Island, at
the mouth of Camden Harbor, N. E. j N. distance about three eighths of a mile. North-
east Ledges to Morse's Point, N. by W. distance about half a mile; those ledges are
covered at high water, but are above the surface of the water at two hotirs' ebb. Bar-
rit's Point forms the western side of Camden Harbor, and i)ear8 from the light S. W.
by S. i S. distance about three eighths of a mile. Morse's Point lies opposite tho light-
house and lormsthe eastern side of the harbor. Barrit's Point to the Graves, S. S.^ S.
distance about 1| mile. From the light to the (iraves, S. by E. ^ E. distance about 2
miles. Owl's Head Light bears from Camden Light S. i W. distance about 12 miles*
From the Graves to the Owl's Head Light S. by W. i W. distance about 1"^ miles^.
Camden Lighthouse is situated on the S. E. part of Negro Island, and contains
light, elevated 4') feet above the level of the sea.
In coming from the westward, and bound to Camden Harbor, bring Owl's
to bear south, and steer N. i K. for Camden Light, leaving the Graves and N<
rocks, on the starboard hand : the (irave is a small black rock, and is above the^ii
of the water at all times, and you may near it within a cable's length, on all sidm.
up with the lighthoui^e leave it on the larboard hand one cable's length, and steeri
by N.^ N. or N. N. W. distance nearly half a mile, and anchor near the nort^lfaf
from four to five fathoms water, good holding groiind. If you are to tli% efH|^%t|^cild-'
bound for Camden Harbor, bring the light to bear W. S. W. or S. W, bjF "Wi U^ 6|«ir
the north east ledges, then follow the above directions.
CASTINE. — The beacon on Otter Rock bears from the lighthouse on OieeHl H«ad|
at the entrance of Castine Harbor, S. E. j E. distance half a mile; NoJdte's tilltid'
Point, fS. E. I S. distant e about I'l miles; Bull Head, on Holbrook's Island, sotitbt did*
tance about 2 miles ; Turtle Head, W. N. W. distance about 4^ miles; Bdfast, N. Vl^*
by W. distance aboui 11 miles. From the beacon on Otter I^ck ^o Noddle's Islhodt
Point, S. E. by S. j' S. distance about three eighths of a mile; from 'Noddle's Islandf'
Point to the beacon on Hosmar's Ledge, E. N. E. distance a4)out three-quarten of a
mile ; from Otter Rock Beacon to tlie beacon on Hosmar's Ledge, east, distanc* abdut
three-quarters of a mile ; Hosmar's Ledge Beacon to the town of Castine, N. N. S.|li'^
tance about half a mile. .
Otto Rock is a small round rock, and lies about two Cables' length from the DortbMIl
shore, and has on it an iron beacon, with a cask placed upon a staft'at its centre, and is
about 11* feet abo'r the level of the sea at high water. Noddle's Islan4 Poi^l is a low
black rock, and very bold. Bull Head is a high bhitl of rocks, and of a yellowish casti
and lies on the south side, without the entrance of the harbor. ( "
Hosmar's Kock lies about one eighth ol a mile from the southern .shore of CastitM
Harbor, and has on it an iron beacon, as described on (JtlerRock.. Turtle Head is th(4'
northern head of Long Island. Stubbs' Point Ledge lies opposite the town, but is not
in the way of vessels going into Castine Harbor, on which there is a beacon to b6 erected
this season.
If you are bound up Penobscot Bay, and are to the eastward of Long Island, and i«»
tend going into Castine Harbor, bring the light on Diet's Head to bear N. E. by N. and
run for it until you are within a half a mile of it. then steer E. by N. for the beacon otl
Hosmar's Ledae, leaving Otter Rock Beacon on the larboard hand, one cable's length
>_isiance, and Bull Head, Noddle s Point, and the lieacrn on Hosmar's Lodge on the
starboard hand, you may near the starboard shore o(f the entrance of Castine Harbor,
within one cable's length, and steer E. N. E. which will carry you in ship chai nel way.
You may anchor oH'the town, near the wharves, in from 8 to 10 fathoms water.
-^^:
id ; is 147 feet
* The Phip is nn inland that has three trees on it, and appears like a ship e'. a distance ;
and the Bnrge is a dry rock, which appears like a barge.
A2
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
This harbor is easy of access, and vessels may approach it with safety by following the
above directions.
*\VHI'rK HKA]). — Vessels bound from the southward, and inteiidinj; to fall in with
White Head Lighthouse, should endeavor to take their departure from the High Land
of Cape (Jod, on which is a liijhthouse, containing a fixed light, from which to Manhei-
gen Light, the course is N. N. E. \ K. distant .'35 'r leagues. The shore near Manhei-
gen is bold, with good watt»r on all sides, having no shoals or sunken rocks about it ;
tliere are some dry islands and ledges on the north side, but they are bold, and good wa-
ter all among thein. From iManheigcn light to VN'hite (lead Light, the course is N. K.
distant about 7 leagues, with a fair open sound, '{'here is a small ledge lies about half
a mile from White Head Light, bearing S. by K. which is just out of water at conunon
tides: at low water you pass between this ledge and the light to go in tiie Mu^'cle Kidge
Channel, or into the harbor. Wni contituu' your course N. K. by the light about three-
quarters of a mile, when you will open the harl)or on your lari)oard hand, ' etween a "
small ledgy island next the light, and a hii;h white island with some spruce trees on it.
When you open the harbor N. W. you steer N. W. and sail on till you pass all the
ledges on your larboard hand, and anchor in about .'> nr(-< fathoms, good holding grr)uii(l.
Vessels of 60 or 70 tons, may double dose around the head of the light, soon as it
bears N. E. and anchor right abreast of the store. This is called Sail Harbor. Va-
mls taken with calm and ebb tide, may anchor any where off the Imht, in from 12 to i'O
jfathoins water. If the wind takes you at N. H. and ebb tide, that you caiuiot get into
Sail Harbor, you may run into Tarrent Harbor, which bears W". by S. aboui 4 miles dis-
tant. You will continue your W. by 8. course, till the first house on the starboard
hand bears N. N. W. when you mav anchor in about 4 or fy fathoms water, good ground.
TAKRENT HARBOR, Mir.SCLl-: KllXJK, AND PKNOHSCOT BAV— In
tailiAfrom this harbor, you may steer east one league, to White Head Light, but be
loot to haul in for it till it bears N. E. as there is a large ledge of rocks bearing
|?Wji,«N. W. from said Head, one mile distant, but within it, a pistol shot from the
k'u lAkdeoavigation. In going in, you must give the larboard hand a berth, as there
ikeo le<)ge« which extends about two-thirds across the mouth of the harbor, that
wb#n there is any sea, unless at high water.
^'f' ^Ali* IIARBOR lies to the northward and eastward of White Head, about three-
k^UKUlf of a mile. If you wish to go into this harbor, haul up round the Head, within
»^ ttboi^t a eabh> and a half's length, run until the light bears S. W. then steer N. by W.
' run ^1 and MChpr in 8 fathoms, sticky bottom. This is a good harbor in winter. Ves-
•eki getting beealnisd can anchor rear the Head in 10 or V2 fathoms water. Attached
to this light is a bell weighing 1000 lbs. striking, in foggy weather, three times a minute.
Your course from White Head Light is N. E. to Ash Point or Island, one league dis-
tant, which has a large rock to the S. W. of it, about half a mile distant, which you must
leaye on your larboard hand. It is not in the way except you are obliged to go about.
When you haul round this island, give it a small berth, and steer N, N. E. or N. p]. by
N^ for the Owl's Head, leaving two islands on your starboard hand ; but when you draw
•ftear the larboard shore, you steer about E. N. E. for the Owl's Head, which has a good
^i,)iarbor on the larboard hand as you go to the eastward. This harbor makes with a deep
'^jeo»e. You may bring a rocky point that lies on your starboard hand to bear N. E. and
jl ledse of rocks that lies without said point to bear E. N. E. and anchor in 4 fathoms,
muddy bottom.
^ This harbor is open to the wind at E. by N. and E. N. E. but in all other winds you
"are safe. The tide of Hood sets to the eastward, and the tide of ebb S. W. through the
*T Muscle Ridges.
• If it is night when you come to White Head Light, you bad better not attempt going
through the Muscle Ridges. Your best way is to go by Two Bush Island, which you
must leave on your larboard hand, keeping your course E. N. E. or N. E. by E. [Two
Bush Island is round and barren, but has only one bush on it. Formerly it had two
bushes.]
If you. are in a large vessel, your best way is to go in this passage, as it is the most
•afe. You must follow your course, as above directed, about two leagues, when yoii
• White Head Light is built on White Head Island, remnrkable for the ninny white rocks on the
head. It is 7 ieiigues from Mnnheigen, brnrinc N. E. ; is n fixed white light, 58 fiet above the
level of the sea. Tiie litjht in sninll, but of preiii irnporlnnce, ns nil ve^ssels bjuiul to i'enobscot Bay,
going in shore, are obliged to pans by the liKhi thniiigii tlie Muscic Ridges. A stranger wishing lo
pass this Hght must, if coming from the wcHtwiird, run in for the land cast nf Muidici^ien, until the
light bears S. W. ; theu steer N. E. and yuu can pass witliin half u cable's length uf the bead.
msmm
.ittk .. .:^S^'
ULUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST IMLOT.
143
will have •Penobscot ]\ay open, and then you may direct your course to either side of
Lons; Island. If you go to the westward, your course is N. N. K. to (ireat .Spruce
Head, which havinj; passed seven ieaj^ues, your course is N. E. by N. 5 leagues to Old
Fort Point. In steering said course, you will leave lielfast Bay and Brigadier's Island on
your larliiiard hand, which island has a good harbor, and if you mean m go into it, you
must leave it on your larboard hand, and steer in about N. or N. by W.
^'ou may run up above this island, and andior on the starboard hand, if the wind is to
the eastward; but if to the westward, or .S. W. you must not. There is a bar that lies
from this island to the main land, whith is cnvere I at high water. There is also a good
harbor to the westward of this island, tailed Lung ( ove. If you turn into either of these
hariiors, you must be carelnl of some rocks that lie to the southward of this island, more
than half a mile from the main land. But in going to Penobscot, proceed as above, and
keep your larboard liand on bcnird. \\'hen you pass tliis island for the Old Fort Point,
V. hich has no trees on it, you must observe before you come to it, that a large ledg«- of
rocks lies about three-quarters of a juile to the K. S. K. of it, which is covered at high
water, but bare at half tide. Vou may go within a table's length of Old Fort Point, in
smooth water. These rocks may be discovered when the wind blows.
If you are bound u]) Penobscot, from Old Fort Point, with the tide of ebb, and th»»
wind a-head. you may make a jirood harbor in the east river, which lies about E. N. E.
from Old Fort Point,! about one league. Tliis river lies to the soulhAvestward of Orphan
Island, in which place you will lie sate from all wmds, and anchor in si.x or seven fathoou,
good holding ground.
Orphan Island is a larae island, which you are to leave ou your starboard hand, and
sundry rocks on your larboard hand, which are above water. When you pauOijphan'
Island, you may anchor to the N. W. of it, on the starboard hand, ackyou go tbfongh:
but if wind and tide are in favour you may proceed up to Marsh Bay, keepin|^Ae lar-
board hand best on board. Marsh Bay is about two leagues from Orphan Island. -^Siirheil
you pass Marsh Bay, you may keep in the middle of the river, and you bt\^r neither^
rocks nor shoals until you get u|) to the falls. You have no particular OQl
this river, but may sometimes go to the westward of N. and sometimes to tlle4
When you enter Penobscot Bay, and are bound to the eastward of LoDl
must steer N. E. by N. leaving Long Island on your larboard band, wbic&<tt^ltpt ,%ril
carry you up to Castine.t If you intend going into this harbor, as sooauit DWMiE.'Nj
E. you may run in, steeling E. N. E. keeping the middle of the channel ll^til |rMi JMM)|.'J
the first island, giving it a berth of half a mile ; then haul to the sonthimd ttl|l8 the
island bears VV. 8. W. when you may anchor in 8 or 10 fathoms, muddx bottoib, aM U*
safe froiH all wind. '
In going into the harbor of ('astine, you leave three islands on your starboard han^J'
but if you are bound u]) I'enobscot River, you must steer north, leaving the ledge of
rocks off the Old Fort Point on your larboard hand : then follow the same airectiona »ou
have for miming into the Penobscot River, which will carry you up to the Fidls. The
tide ebbs and flows, at full and change, about 10 or 11 feet.
GEORdES RIVER.— Bring the ^orth IJamiscove Island, which is called Whittl
•PBNOBSCOT HAY a.vd RIVER.— This extensive bay is included between Sedgwick Point, ■
on the enst, and White Head on the west ; ihcdistaiicr lirtwocii these points is about 11 leagues; and "'
it therefore includes the Isle-iiu. Haute, Peer Island, the Fox Island, Long Island, and anumfaWTof '
sninll isles, rocks, nnd ledi^cs. TlirDHirh the bay to the mouth of the river of its name, the weatent
chininri is by the headland on thf west, railed Owl's Hood : thence, by Camden on the west, siid
Cape Riisaric on the east, to Hatraduce l^jjnt or Cnstine River. The eastern channel is between
Isle.nu-Huut on the west, and the smaller isles on the east, through a channel called Long Reach, '
formed by tlie shore of .Sedijwick on one side, and Deer Islniid on the other, until it unites With the.
main channel between Gtt|ie Rosnrie and Long Island. Above this, on the east, stands Fort Caatina
ntor to which is the town of Castine, opposite to Penobscot. (Jasiine is the port of entry. This
noble riveri^hieh empties its waters into the bay, and which is now decorated with numerous town-
ships, is the most cfjiisideniliie in the State of Maine, and lins its sources about 130 miles above the
inlet o( Castine. The head of tide and iiavit;aiion is, however, at Baiifior, about 30 miles from the
same : but vessels of 30 tons may u|)pruaeh within a mile of this place. At the entrance of the river
is a depth of 10 futhums.
t On Old Fort Point, above Cnstine, there is a lighthouse to indicate the direction to Prospect
Harbor.
} Castine Lighthouse is built on IJise's Head, at the entrance of Castine harbor, and is an impor.
tnnt light running up and down Penobscot Bay. It shows a fixed light llCferi above the level of the
sea, N. W. ^ N. from Fort Point ledges, and from the eastern end of Long Island S. E. by E. | E.
The shore near the light.houBo is bold.
M
■H> ■■"'
144
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Island, (from its being white,) to bear W. S. W. and steer E. N. E. for * Franklin light-
house, that you leave on your starboard hand, and which you may pass within a cable's
length of. When abreast of Kranl<Hn Island light, (which is on your starboard hand,) steer
N. K. for Utter Island, 4 miles distant, and continue until within one-quarter of a mile
of it, leaving it on your larboard hand; then steer E. N. E. for fCauldwell's Island, at
the S. W. end of which is a high round rock, called Goose Rock. When abreast of said
rock, which you may pass within one cable's length of, leaving it on your starboard hand,
steer N. E. by E. and N. E. keeping Cauldwell's Island best on board, to avoid a ledge
in the midd'e of the river.
In beating into (ieorge's River, you must be carrful of a sunken ledge which bears E.
N. E. from Franklin Island Light, 6 miles distant ; also of a ledge oti' the S. E. end of
Gay's Island, which extends one third of the way across to Goose Rock.
Should you fall in with Manhcigen Island Light, and bound to (ieorge's River, you
may steer N. N. W. leaving Manheigen Island on your starboard hand, until Franklin
Island Light bears N. E. by E. when you may run for it, and steer as above directed.
Franklin Light may with safety be run for when bearing from N. E. by N. to E. N. E.
In running from White Islands for (T»>orge's River, be careful of New Harbor Ledges,
which bear E. N. E. from tPenmequid Point Light, one league distant, on which art 5
feet water at low water. After passing these Ledges, you will see a large dry rock called
the Western Egg Rock, which bears E. N. E. from Penmequid Point, two leagues dis-
tant, and W. by S. from Franklin Lisht, one league, which you leave on your larboard
hand; you will also see the Eastern Egg Rock, wlijch boars south from Franklin Light,
one le^ue distant, which you leave on your starboard hand. These Egg Rocks bear
£. 8^E. and \S(. N. W. from each other, one league distant, and their appearance much
alike, irhich you pass between, with a clear and open channel. You may distinguish
one flfl^ the other by their bear'uigs from the light.
Sl^l^ki you have the wind ahead, and be obliged to turn to windward, you may stand
^rthward until Franklin Island Light bears E.N. E. and to the south-eastward
N.N. E. without danger.
lithward of the range of Penmequid Point and the Western Egg Rock, and
idaad, the ground is foul and rocky ; and also to the eastward of the range of
iaiui Light, and the Eastern Egg Rock. [Nuie. M'Cobb's Island is the
ince of George's River, and bears N. W. 1| mile distant from Franklin
1% ;;!§BPI*S'. BAY HARBOR John's Island bears from Thrum Cap Island N. N. E.
:;4iiHllitfllboilt three miles. Thrum Cap Island is a small bare island, and forms the west-
pyinrtl aide of the entrance of John's Bay, bearing from Penmequid Point W. S. W. dis-
i^'^'^lpt' about two and a half miles. Penmequid Point forms the eastern side of the bay,
';,|p3la a \ow bare point ; but the shores are bold on all sides. The lighttiouse is situated
:.0D t\f« S. B. side of Penmequid, and bears from the western point E. N. E. distant about
half a mile; from John's Island to Butford's Island, west, 'listant about one mile;
Mrt'a liland, N. W. by W. distant about one mile; High Island Head, N. } W.dis-
It-abottt two miles; McFarling's Point, N. W. by N. distant about one and a half
^Ic— «ne-eighth of a mile from McFarling's Point there are several ledges, covered at
rwater, butare not in the way of vessels running into this bay, as they lie so near the
litem shore they may be seen at all times, with a little motion of sea 3 — McCown's
*tAttt from Johir's Island, north, distant about one and a quarter mile; Penmequid
Poiltt, S. by E. distant about three miles; Penmequid's Harbor, N. E. distant about half
a mile. Thrum Cap Island bears from White Island N. E. distant about two mdes.
^ gl^ Islaqd Head is a high bluff covered with trees, and you may near it within 200 feet
^Bf^Ha shore.
John's Island is small and high, covered with spruce trees, located near the centre of
^^ „ _ bay, and has a house on the N. W. part of it, which cannot be seen until you are up
^Kiwh the island; if you wish to run into Penmequid Harbor, you may go to the eastward
1^ i)f John's Island, leaving two dry rocks on the starboard hand, keeping them close on
board; or you may leave them on your larboard hand, and after passing thean you will
•Franklin Ligbt iserectndon the north or.d of Franklin Islnnd, near the end of George's River.
The lantern is elevated 50 feet above the level of the sea, and contains a tixed light.
tCauldwell's Island lies on the east side of George's River, about 9J miles from the entrance ; it
is a high round island covered with trees.
t A lighthouse is erected on Penmequid point, 30 feet high, and 75 feet above the level of th<; sea,
which exhibits a fixed light It is a light to Bristol and Waldoborough Rivers ; bears N. V/. | W,
from Manheigen Island Light, distant 12 miles.
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
145
see the cntraiifc of tlie harhor, bc-arinj; about N. E. lialfa mile distant, where you may
run ill, and he safe iVnm all winds.
Vessels westward Ixinnd, and railing in with .Manheijrcn Island, and wish to make a
harbor in a strong S. \V. wind, nnjst observe the tollowini^ dire<tions : — Bring Manhei-
gen Liulit to bear S. K. and steer N. \V. distatit about 11 miles, for l'cnme(juid I'oint,
and when the light on said point bears 10. N. K. distant halla itiile, you are then u|) with
the Wfstern point ol" l'euMie(|uid ; leavt* it on your starboard liand, and give it a berth of
one-eighth ot' a unle. then stet:r north tor .lohn's Hay Harbor, leaving John's Island,
IMcCoun's I'oint, on your starboard hand ; I'lUtlonl's Isluid, Stuart's Island, and McFar-
liiig's I'oint on the lar'ioard liaml. ll you an- Ironi the westward, and bound into this
harbor, you may bring John's Islaud to bear N. by K. ami run until you are wilhii. one
cable's lengtli ot it ; ttien steer north for High Island Head, whieh you leave on your lar-
board hand, and when abreast of saiil heail steer N. { 10. about three-eighths of a mile
and anchor in from \ to jiathoms water, good holding ground. John's Hay liesabout 5
miles to the eastward ot Townseud I larbor. and is a fair open bay, havin<; no rocks or shoals
at its entrance, and vessels may run in without fear, by following the above direotions.
DA.MAKlSCCJ'rTA KIVKK.— The buoy at the mouth of Damariscottu River, and
the bearings of ddfi rent objects about it, and directions tor the river : — Hern Island, S.
W. part, bciirs tVom the buoy, K. by .\. distant about a (piarler of a mile;" White
Island, S. '; ^^ distant vJj nnles; \ arnums I'oint, ni;rih, distant about 3J miles;
Foster's Point, N. by K. diiHant about -J", miles; from Horn Island to White Island,
S. S. W. distant about .'5 miles. Hern Island torms the eastern side of the entrance of
Damarisco'ta lliver, and is high, covered wuli spruce-trees. V^anmm's Point Uahigh
bliilf point, and is on the western side of ihe river, and is also covered wi^ trees. The
shores on both sides ottlie riverare bold. * .^'^
In coming from the westward, and b(. ■ d to Damarisrotta Rlrer, bring V^^te-Xslaod
to bear S. .'. W. and steer north, leaving the buoy. Hern Island, Rpd Foster's Point jim
the slarl)oanl hand, give tlie buoy a berlli of a cable's le'igth, and steer N. by E. kCi
in the middle of the river, and when up with \ arnum's Point, which you lea^e i
larboard hand, you will see Hodgden's .Mills on the western side of the riveVtS
mile. Hodgden's house and mills are painted red : you may anchor abreasf;
near the middle of the river, in ii fathoms water, good holding; ground, vtUttpM
lie sate froin all winds. The abovementioned buoy is a spar buoy painted iredy il^i|i|i|^
a!)out IJ feet a!)ove the surface of the water, and is moored about 100 feet tor^ijlill^iibl".
ward ol the ledge, in (> fathoms, at low water. f^^^V 1' V
Sliould you fall in to 'hv eastward ol' * .S.'-i;uine, Itnd wishing to gd outside o£'y|liJrijfe»i
eove Islands, bring .^egimie Liglu to bear 10. i N. and steer E, ^ S. 5 leagues dftltilSfleiM^
to clear Hantam hed^e, whiih lies east Inmi Segnine [i}j leagues distant, and S; SifW/K»»
Irom f Pumpkin i\ock, one league : you then steer N. 10. until you make Franklin ~ '^, / _ ",
and then >teer as al)ove directed, or coMliaiie your K. -, S. course until Pumpkin Rftldl^i'^J
bears north, then steer N. 10. for Franklin Licht. Your course from Punipkin^Rock M^
Franklin Light is N. K. by K. five leagues distant. In hazy weather you jlfiU.4ft.wel^^
to get a departure from this rock, as you cauiiot see Franklin Light more tBan^4naiii
distant. Vou may anchor in (iay's Cove, taking care to avuid a sunken led^ew)Ko]hUi|i(Sl^'^j
K. from (tay's Cove near thi' middle of the (diannel, and has 4 feet at low watNT* ^^»f
ledge :uust be left on your larboard hand, keepisig ('auldwell's Island close on bio^.
(iay's Cove lies on your larboard haml about 8 miles tf> the E. N. E.c" Franklin'a '
Island Liirhi. Vou may know this Cove, as Cay's house and barn lie to the N. W. of
it. Hut if you are bono I 'hrous;li tllerritiu' Cut, bring §Oapt. Henderson's House to
bear i\. N. W. and steer S. t». K. for Herring (int. This Herring Gut hits a hat frem-
sid« to side, but you luay go over it at two hours llood keeping your larboard hand best*
on board. As you come on the bar, you will see a lari^e rock on your starboard hand,
and the deepest water is within a cable's length of the rock ; your course over the bar if
S. S. E. Vou may aticlior to the N. \V. of the bar in 4 or .'> fathoms, muddy bottOdir -
and wait for the tide. ' The tide of flood sets to the northward, and tlte ebb.to tL, soutli-
ward.
* Spijninp Lichthouse is situated on un island nenr the mouth of Kennebcck River. The lontern
is elevated 2IM) t'ect above tlie level of the sen, luul coniniiis n fixed light of the first i. ignitude, and
niny ill' seen at the distance ol 9 or lOienirnes in clear wenthrr,
+ riiiiipkin Rock lies offihe S. E. point of Dnniiscovc Islnnds, half a mile distant. It is a dry flat
rock, elevated iiliout '2i) I'eet above the level of the sen.
t At the entrance of Herring Gut, on Marshall's Point, a lighthouse elevated 30 feet, containing a
fixed light is erected.
^ Capt. Henderson's House is white, and his store red, and both lie on the larboard hand.
19
-H^
•Ii-
,, ,^ ^ .^
f^"
146
BLUNTS AMERICAIV COAST PILOT.
r
HERRTNG GUT HARBOR.— Old Cilly hears from the lij;ht on Marshiill Point, ,if the
entranceof Herring Out Harbor, soutli,<listiuit iihout .'( miles; lilack Kotk, S. }, W. distant
about li mile; Henderson Island, S. S. W. distant 1 mile; Bradford's Island, W. bv S.
distant half a mile; Gunning Rock, 8. E by S. ? S. distant about 1 mile; Two Bro-
thers, S. E. distant about vJi miles; Henderson Island from (innninjj Rock, west, dis-
tant about half a mile; Gumiina; Kock to Black Kock, .S. W. ^ S. <listant about half a
mile. S. E. by S. .', S. from (iunning Rock, distant a (piarter of a iriilc, lies a sunken
ledge, which ran be seen breaking at low water in a heavy sea. From Old ('illy to the
light on Manheigen Ishmd, S. W. by S. distant about ') miles; Mus(|uito Island from
Old Cilly, N. E. by E. distant about 4 miles; Green Island from tli(; Brothers, S. E. |
S. distant about a quarter of a mile. Old ("illy is a low bhuk roek, and ran always be
seen above the surface of the water. A reef extends oil east, distant nearly a (|uarter of a
mile, which must be avoided. Black Kock is a small round roek, and is also above the
surface of the water. Henderson Island is a small low island, with no bushes or trees on
it. Bradford Island is high, and covered with spruce-trees, and (orins the western side
of Herring (lUt Harbor. (Jreen Island is also a small bare island. The two islands called
the Brothers, are small, and covered with sjiruce-trees. (Junning Rock is hii;li and
bfU'e, with a yellowish color : this led^e is very bold, and you may near it within 1(10 feet.
Sailing Directions. — In running from Manlieiuen for Hcrrini;(iut Harbor, brinii the
light on Manheigen to bear S. W. and steer N. K. by N. and when the light or) NTar-
shall'S Point bears N. by W. ^ W. then run Ibr it : in nirining for the light you will leave
the Old Cilly, Black .Rock, and Henderson Island on the larboard hand ; I\liis([(iiio Isl-
and, ^HnMO filland, Twq Brothers, and Gunning Rock, on your starboard hand, (iive
the li|^ a berth of two cables' length, and when it bears cast of you, steer N. N. E.
distMnT^out one mile, and anchor in from 4 to 5 fathoms, where you lie safe from all
^ritlds : you will find good anchorage anywhere between Marsliail's Poiiit and Brad-
■ :X^ miy ran into this harbor by bringing the light on Marsliall's Point to bear W.
""'^Ilryewilg the Green Island, Two Brothers, and (Jiumiiii: Ivock on the larboard hand ;
Ivbod on the starboard. This passage is full of shoals, and had better not be
{'unless well acquttinted.
riseiuy of access, and vessels may approach it with safety by following the
i»gO 'out of this harbor, and bound to the eastward, be careful and give the
/T.:* . 9 a ffood berth, for there are two ledges of rocks on the same hand of the eas-
Mim|Sliti^*i^icn are under water, and lie off about a cai)le's length. When you are
*ltar^tt|#«iB ledges, you may steer E. by S. or E. S. E. one mile to the barrei'i island,
'i«HNi«fat|^tt leBVe on the larboard hand, and 3 or 4 islands or ledges on the starboard liand.
AVheaTWu pass these ledges and Musqueto Islands, if bound to White Head, you may
'iteer-lCC by E.'2 leagues, and when you bring the light to bear N. E. run for it, but
firhea ydU pass the S. W. White Head, leave it on your larboard hand, and be careful of
a sunken rock, that lies S. E. from the eastern White Head, about one cable's length
5; t*'di«taDt.. Your course through to the eastward is N. E. and to the westward S. W. keeping
Hear tke' middle of the passage. Before you come up with Ash Point, you must be care-
ful 6f a sunken rock, which lies off the point about one third of the passage, which has not
more than 8 feet at low water. But if you should go througli this passage in the night,
keep'Potatoe Island, which is right against Ash Island, about S. S. W. from it, and bare
of treesi which you leave on your starboard hand, best on board. When you pass Pota-
^toe Island, and are bound into Owl's Head, your course is N. N. E. about ^' miles, which
• ^Ul leave two islands on the staiboard iiand. When yon open the passage to Owl's
Head, and bound to Edgemavoggan Reach, your course is N. E. by N. till you pass the
Lime Islands, which you leave on your larboard hand. (Jontinue said course till you
make a large bare rock on your starboard hand, and a little round island to the eastward
on the same hand, which is covered with trees. Continue your coiuse to the N. E. and
you will make a large island on your starboard hand ; when you pass this island you
have the passage open to Buck's Harbor; coiuinue your course N. E. till you pass' by
all the islands, to the southward aiirl northward. In the day time you may see Blue
Hills bearing E. N. E. over all the land. This passage is safe to go through with a tirst
rate man of war. When you come within two miles of the reach, you will make a small
island on your starboard hand, which has a sunken rock to the northward of it. Your
safest way is to keep the middle of the passage, as there is a sunken rock (or ledge,) on
the larboard hand, that lies E. by S. from an island which you leave on your larboaril hand
about half a mile distant. If you want to make a harbor, you may go into Buck's Har-
bor by a N. E. or N. E. by N. course. When you come into this harbor, (which is 12
leagues from Owl's Head,) you must leave an island covered with young birch trees, on
your starboard hand, steering N. N. W. uud when you get to the northward of said island
:>
f. -
f '
I
.....^ jii^2
•S*
10fm
BLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
147
nil Point, nf»b^
S. I W. (liHrnnt
iind, W. I)v S.
!<•; Two Hio-
)ck, we.Ht, dis-
it iibotit Ir.iir a
, li»'s ;i ruiiikcti
111 C'illy to the
to Island iVoiii
If hers, S. E. |
can always he
. a ()iiaitpr «)('«
also above the
lies or trees on
le western side
o islands called
k is hi<j[li and
vitliin 1(10 ffct.
rlior, i)rin<: the
!ii;ht on Mar-
t yon will leave
INInscjnilo Isl-
d hand, (live
*teer N. N. K.
i safe from all
iiit and Brad-
int to hear W.
larboard hand ;
d better not be
V following the
1 and give the
nid !)(' the eas-
iVlien yttu are
barren island,
arboard hand,
ead, yoii may
nm for it, but
I be careful of
cid)le's length
y. W. keei)ing
must be care-
which has not
; in the night,
in it, and bare
• on pass I'ota-
.' miles, which
sage to Owl's
I you pass the
•(inrse till you
» the eastward
(he N. E. and
lis island you
I you pass by
lay see JJlne
gh with a first
make a small
of it. Your
(or ledge,) on
larboard hand
HiK^k's Har-
, (which is 12
irrh trees, on
of suid island
>
\ •
ypn Rtpcr E. S. E. till you bring it to bear S. S. W. where you will be land-locked from
all winds, in 4 or .j lailioins, soft bottom. When you leave Buck's Harbor, and hound
to the enstward, you steer .S. E. till you come to a large rock and four islaiuU, which you
leave on your larboard hand, keeping the said rock and islands best on board, for there it
a sunken ledge tliat lies 8. 8. W. from thciii. Vou will make a black island on your
starboard hand with burnt treeson it. 'This ledge lies .\. N. E. from said island, near the
middle of the jiassage, but kee|)ing the eastern shore best on board, you will go clear of
it. When yuu hiive passed this ledge, you leave two islands on your starboard and two
or lluee on your larl)oard li.md. ('(iniiniie your <r)utse to the S. E. till vou make two
islands between which anil Buck's Harbor the course is .S. E.and N. W. fj leagues. To
the eastward you m ly go between both islands, steering E.by S. 1 league, whicli course
will carry you up with 'J'rum ("ap. which island has a bar of rocks, that lie near half a
mile to the northward; but if you havea head wind, and are obliged to run through, you
will olisorve (he channel is two miles wide at (Jhanni'l Koi.k, which is always above water.
Wlien you leave this Truin (ai). steertjl. l^V- S.^iich will carry you between the Ship
niid Mume, and three islands wliii li yoiW'ave on your Ifirboird hand, which are covered
with l.frge nil k-maple trees, 'j'lie Barge is a bare rock, which you leave on your star-
hitaril hand; but there is a rock about a cable's length to the northward of the Barge.-*
Continne your course E. by S. fur Hass Harbor, distant from Trum Cap 5 leagues; but
yon iMiist have some iei:ard to the tide of ebb, which sets very strong to the S. S. E. and
llie tide of tl')ud to the .\. N. W. If you are bound into Bass I ] arbor, you keep Rieh*«
I'oiiit witlim a cal)li''s length, which you leave on your larboard hapd, for thereMalare*
ledge of rooks, which lie idf al><>iit half a mile, which is bare at halftide, and.bMlrs S. Ejt
from liich's Barn, and S. by W. from the entrance of I'ass Harbor. Yfl03( give the lyr-
boanl hand a gnod berth in g(iin<i into liass Harbor; in entering which you IQtUrt give both
sides a liertli, lor at low water, it is shoal. When you get into this harbtir, anchor OH th*
larlioard h iiid, witli a cove to the westward of you, in Ij or 4 fathoms, muddy ll^tttlil*"" ;
BASS HAKBon. — When you leave thisharbor, bound to the eastward,, ateiw Ortt 8»
W. till you bring Bass Harbor'liar to bear S. S. E. then run S. S. E. keeping th»lli|j<<i>rd
lianl Ix'st on board. This liar has not water enough for a loaded vessel boGi)jl| I
haviiis; H', feet only at low water; but a light vessel may go over at low Wat
the larlxiard hand best on board. When you get over this bar, you steer "*
you biiu; the S. W. entrance of Mount Desert to bear N. E. (hen yon nmy^
leaving ("ranlierry Island on your stariioard hand. But this- passage is thpalj
fer, and not fit lor loaded vessels to tro through ; but at full tide there ii
keeping the middle of tiie pissa^e. Continue your course to the N. E.
Crasiberry Island; then yon may steer E. S. E. and anchor betWeen the
islands, where ycu will be safe from easterly or S. W. winds. You naajr !
to 7 fithoins, sjood holding ground.
When you leave this port bound to the eastward, you steer E. by S. till yoUgCti;^''|
with Baker's Island Eiuht. wliirhlies to the eastward of the Cranberry islaodi ; th*vy<lit;
ste T E. by N. 4 leagues, to Scuttock Island. When you pass said isl^d« apd .^'i
lioun 1 to Goldsliorough, you must steer N. E. about 5 leagues, audkeep thati^ltolpl
you brini; (Joldsboroii'^h harbor to bear X. N. W. then you must leave thr»9.-1k|^ll4i'fi^J
your larl)oard and one on your starlmard han 1. and run into the harbor, wbetS jfAV^^f
lie safe from all win Is, and anchor in h or ') I'athoms. -. ', ..'■', • '
D^'EirS BAY, (S:c.— This harbor lies a little to the eastward of Golddbimni^*
When you make Titmanan Light, bo ind to Dyer's Bay, leave it on your titarboard Iw
and steer north for the eastern head. Vou leiive a large dry rock on your Iar|b«B*i
hand, and. after passiti!: it, you will see a small island, covered with trees, which /^'
leave on your starboard hand, then haul round said island, where you will be saifti/
all winds.
SC[TTTOCK ISLAND.— When you come from the westward, and bound to ■'
manan, you jiass Scuttock Island ; steer E. N. E. tVom Scuttock Island 5 leagueir^'^
Titmanan light, before descrilied.
TITMANAN LKJHT TO LADLE ISLAND— When you pass the light
it to bear S. -W. and steer N. E. about 4', leaiines, wjiich eoursi will carry you to jbl .
Island. This island has a remarkable appearance, being formed exactly like a ladlA,4HHl<
has a larsp black rock to the S. W. a little distance from it. You may go any side of' |
this island, but the best channel is to the S. 12. of it.
CAPE SPLIT HARBOR.— When you pass Titmanan Light, bring it tobearS.
W. A S. and steer N. E. i N. for Cape Splitt, distance 5 leagues, which course will carry i
you safe into the harbor.' In steering said course, you will make a black rock, whieni
you leave on your starboard hand, distance one mile from Cape Splitt. This harbor itf
safe from all winds but S. W. which blows right in ; but if you anchor in a cove on thej
starboard side, and moor N. W. and S. E. you will lie safe from all winds.
148
BMINt's AMKPwICAN coast I'ILOT.
PLEASANT RIVER. — Wlii-n > •>;! < oiik- iVntn the wi-stwiinl, niid hound to Plea-
sant Klver, ill pus'^'Mii: Titiniuiaii Li^Iir, ix-in-; if t(» l)i'nr S. W. hy S. atiil stfcr N. K. by N.
5 l»'iiiiUPs (litjtiiiice. Ill stt'fiiii!: said rcniH', Hit is clear weather, you will see ( 'apt.
WaHse's lioust open hetweeu llii inland and niaiu land ; hut this passaire will not do at
■.WW water. V'ou must leave liiis island, (and a hi;:h dry led^e ni roeis that he to the
westward of it,) on y(Mir siarl)oaid hand ; when y.tu pass the hare ledije, you will see a
bare isle, which you leave on your starhoard hand- then you may haul up lor ( 'apt.
Wa.ssi's house and anchor, anrl take a [lilot I'or I'leasaiit Kiver, as it is not safe (jjoin<;
without one, except you are well ac(|iiainted.
Narr(>w (lauues is om- mile to the westward >•( Pleasant River, too didicult to he de-
Bcrihed, as there are sundry sir.ail islands at the month ol the harhor or hay. The hesl
way for a stranjier, \^ to t;o into ( ',ipe Splilt haiho*- and i;et a pilot, as there is no dilficiil-
ty in ijoiuL: into Cape .Splitt in the day-time, keeping the larhoard hand hest on hoard.
iMOOSK I'KAKK KKACII. — UMu-n you ctune iVom the westw;ud, and pa'is Ladle
Island on your larhoard hand, steer iff l'/./iy?^KJ * < r Tihliet's Islimd, which you leave on
your larhoard hand. When you (iiiiie to ihe i^t end (d this island, yive if a t:oodl«'rth,
for at low water, there is a ledue oC rocks that lie a cahle's Ipntjih to the S. K. (d said is-
land. When you pass it, and hrin;^ Moose I'eaUe Iteach open, ytui may steer east for
Mr. Deall's house, hut you must keep the starhoard hand hest on hoard, for tliere is a
rook that lies about the middle of the sdiiiid which has not above two feet of wafer on it
at low water. You luav ari'luM' tothe wesiwurd of .Nlr. Beal's house.
MOOSE PEAKE F." VCU.— When hdun.l to the eastward over Moose Peck bar,
which you mtiSt f *^ craw^tefore two honis Hood, you steer for Kelley's < 'o(l'ee-l louse,
whichiies on the •"».■(' * ?n(l, as you 20 to the ea.stward on the N. K. point of Moose
Peake Reach. V« ■ yi. i -«re enterin;; on the bar, you will brim; a bushy tree ri;:ht
against Kelley's Ho, ^v whit'^ ■■ 'ands on lln- p(dnt. \ Our course over tin- l>ar is east.
Xou4eatre Vhb Virgin's Breasi . oe on yom- starlxiard and one on your larhoard }iand;
bu^P;youare bound to Chandler's Kiver, you will leave the \'iri;in'.« liriasts on your
Atittbard hand, and Rogue's Island on the same hand. Tliere is a muddy bar that lies
beYwMta Rogue's Island and the main land, hut water enough on if at tuo hours Hood.
Rdglieiil bland has a good harbor at the N. W. of it, safe from all easterly winils, and a
smaU distance fronijChandler's River.
■ When you go over Moose Peake Rar, bound to Ma( bias, you leave the V'ir^in's Rreasts
i^ai before mentioned.-keeping your course east, and a bare ro( k, called Pul[)if Rock, on
■ "■ wur starboad hand; vou must keep *Lil)l)y's Island I.i'.'ht open to llu- sonthward of this
' /Imni rock. [N. B. ^^his bare rock, which you leave on your sturhoard, may also be
. -ifft on your larboard hand; and steer K. S. K.for Ld)l)v's Isjand Liuht.]
(,'■ ^ MQjOSE PEAKE HEAD TO M AClllA.S.—liivc' the hi-ht a b>rtli of one mile,
ipaving "ii on the larboard hand, 'and steer N. K. by K. 4i leasnes, when you will be up
"llith Llbby's Island Liight on your starboard hand ; then run N. N. K. '2 Icaiiues. which
.'1»ill bring you up with Stone's Island, (ui yiuir larboard hand, havim; a rock lyiiiij; K. one-
third of a mile from the centre of the island : from this steer N. for Hound Island, from
Sisiirjfiich follow the eastern directions lor .Machias.
;m TOWNSENB TO fMANHKKiKN HARBOR.— When you take your departure
•:^^i"om Squirrel Island, you steer K. S. K. for Maidieiuen I/iyht, on the north side of which
'.%. are some small dry islands and ledfjes, but tood water between tliem and the other sides
"f of the island, keeping that course until the passage between (leorsic's Island anrl Man-
Jbeigen bears N. E"; You may then steer N. K. about s( ven leaijues, throujih a fair
■;: .[-Oipi.'a sound, for White Head Lichr, leaving (ieorjie's Islands, (whicli are three in
. ; SUniber,) on your larboard hand. Tlie eastern island has no trees on jt. There are
f^two dangerous rocks, beariiii; due south from the middle of the middle island, called the
. %31d Man and the Old Wom;m, which are hare before low water. They lie about one mile
from the shore ; and at hit;li water wlien the wind blows olf the land, they do not appear.
# If you are bound to the eastward, and the wind Khould take you ahead, when yon are be-
' tween Manheigen and (ieor<;e's Islands, hrint; the middle, of .Manheij;en to bear S. and
run in N. which course will carry you between the eastern (icort;e's Island and the mid-
dle island. You may run as near as yoti wish to the eastern island, but tlie middle island
• Libby Island Ligbt is on Libhy Ic'nnd, at tlie cnirniier of Mncbias Bay; is n fixed I'ghf, 60 feet
above the level of the sea, betirin!; N. H. by h). ; K. from .Moose I'cakc Head Light.
t Manheigen Island Lifilu bus t"ii lamps and relli'ctors, (iiied im two sides of an oblonti; square,
one side prodiirin;; n blood red iiirbt, ilip oilirr n cniTinion \\ bile liidif, luid is a revolving lij.dit. Its
time of revolution is 2' 1.5" ntui r!e\atiori 1711 feci above the level of the pea. Vou eati run, close to
the island on either side, taking care to tro between some dry ledpcs on the northern side of it. In
the island there is a smaU harbor open to the 3. W. It bears E. N. E. from Segiiiue Light.
h;
(M
to
fl
Ik
e;
1 lioimd ti) Plcrt-
itccr N. K. hy i\.
Ill will scr ( ";ipf.
cc will not do :it
<s tliiit he to the
•, you will see ;i
inl up (or ('apt.
is not safe going
idiciilf ((I ho de-
l)iiy. 'J'hc hcsl
■re i« no didicnl-
Itrst on i)o;trd.
iind pa^is I^adlc
ich yon leave on
' it a nood heith,
S. K. oCsaid is-
ly sleer east Cor
d. tor there is a
Pt of water on it
loose Peck bar,
< Cofree-llonsp,
point of iMoose
bnsliy tree riy:lit
the har is east.
• larhoard liand;
Ureasfs on vonr
hiy har that lies
uo honrs (iood.
'riy winds, and a
\'iiain's Ureasts
*"ipil Hock, on
mtliwanl of iImh
nl, niav also he
1 .'
til o( one mile,
I yon will he up
' ieaiines, uliieli
ck lyint' K. one-
nd Island, from
your de|)arlnrc
thside of wliieli
the other sides
sland and Man-
, tlnoniih a fair
li ar«' three in
it. 'J'liere arc
land, called tlie
■ ahont one mile
{ do not appear,
hen yon are he-
1 to bear H. and
rid and the inid-
le middle island
fixed light, 60 feet
an oblonpfifjiiare,
■diving li^dit. Its
II Clin run close to
■in side of it. In
nc Light.
bunt's AMERICAN COAST IMI.OT.
149
hr^1n led^eof rocks tliat lie to tlie eastward of it, wliieli are always dry, tliat you are to leave
on Miiir larboard liand. When you uet to the northward of this island, you must haul
to the wftw ird and mil up between it and the western island, so as to brins; the body of
the middle islantl to bear N. K. of you. Here you moor your vessel, if you stay any
time.
If yon are bound to tlie eastward from lliis island, you may go to the inirthward of the
eaHtern island, but you must be careful of a led^je that lies to the eastward of said inland,
wliich'yon miMt leave mi your siarhnanl hand; and when you l)riim Manheit;en Light
to liear S. W. vol" may l'o N. K. il nii:ht should come on. or the wind ahead, yon may
)iaul up about N. K. Iiy N. for 'Perianl llarlior, which lies about H leasines from (ieorge's
Islands. Von cannot miss this harbor in the day-time. Voii will make .Miisf|ueto IIbI*-
bor. which lies betw.-en l«o islands, covered with spruce trees. TIiq entrance of the
harbor i» north. Ilavin;: passed this harbor, yon will run about two miles, keeping your
course \. K. bv N. wlienyon will pass an island with hiniif trees on if, wiiich you leave
on your larboard liand, and two islands on your siariioard hand, which also have blunt
trees on them; then you must brins; the liariior to hear W. N. W. beft)re yon entebi
This is a siood harbor, provided you have neither cables nor anchors, hh you may sav'ff'?
voiir vessel by running; up to the head of it, on innddy bottom, which will be dry at low
water.
TOWNSKNI) H AKIJOK.— The entranci- of Townsend is wide; from the Cuckolds
to the Damiscove Islands is aliiiiit lliice miles: and Sipiirrel Island lies N. E. by N.
about'.*' miles; and from Scpiirrcl Island to the western shore is about 1 ^ raile ; and
I'lirnt Island- Liuht bears \. distant ahont two miles from the westerly point of Squir-
I'td Islatid. liuntinc Led^c Ins south, a little westerly, from Burnt Islaod Light. If
voi< are outside ol Damiscove Islands, be careful to stand so far to the westward as to
)mnz Burnt Isla-id Liclit to bear N. iiy K. then you may run for it without f«ar.
If the wind should be ahead, and you have to beat into the harbor, you Ittay Stand from
shore to shore without fear, and beat up either to the eastv d or westward of ^ttrorrel
Island: you may Iind ^ood anchonige under the lee of Squii'el - cmd, and goroY^P^Uie
island with any vessel. . rf fA ^
In coiniiiii from the westward, leave Sen;uiiie Island on j mr larboari hand, gfi^g ita J
berth ni' about half a mil"; then steer N. E. by K. 3 leaguss, wfa^n yott Wtt|«.i| clear ^
weather, open Town^end l/iu'ht, on Murnt Island, bearing about N'.'N. K. bttt-Stl^^or
tinue your N. K. by K. course until liiirnt Island Liy;ht bea , N. fcv £. tBen Wafldfoti
contiiininu N. by K. leaving' it on the larhoard hand, t"U up the harbor. ikbOUt tl
ipiarters of a mile N. \. K.fnnn the li>;ht, there is a i dl island called Motise Ish4^J
wliidi you leave on your starboard hand, which is bold, after passing it, VOU haul IP'If'J
E. for the eastern liarbir, or continue your course N. by E. till you' get the westeiril
bor to bear W. .\. W. then yon may run in till you .Shut Burnt Island Light lO^'by tbc
land; or you may an< hor any where inside of Mouse Island, as there are neither roc^ici"]
nor shoals Ivin:^ otf from the l,uid.
In comin,' from the eastward, get Manheigen Light to bear E. S. E. and steer W.N.
W. about ■'} leagues, which course and distance will carry you into«the passage bet»i|itiit^ •
all the outer islands and the main ; and in steering said course, you will make Burnt l^i
and l/mht, liearing about N. \V. hy W. then steer \V. by N. till you- get Btirnt Isl»
Light to bear N. W. then haul up for it, keejiing it on your larboard bow, till you'
up w ilh it. then steer N. by E. and follow the dnection.^ before given, in comtag frq
till' westward.
fKKN.NKBECK AND SMEErStTT.— If roming into Kennebeck River from thp I
westward, keep about one fourth of a mile from Seguine Island^ Light, in doing whicbJ
you will avoid .laik-knil;- Ledi;e, which bears (rom Seguine Light N. W. distant
mile, and Ellingwood's Kock, lying N. one-fourth of a mile from Seguine. Alter {ta
• Burnt I.«land lies uiY the entninrc of Townsend (Booth Bay.) On it is a lighthouse oontaiirfli
a fixed liaht, eievaied 56 feel almve the li'vel of the sea.
t Kenncbeck River is one of the most important in the State of Maine. Swan Island, 4^ i
loPK. lies 3i) miles from the inoiiih of the river, and h miles from the chops.
{ SeL'uine Island, on which n litduhouse i.« erertcil, coniainiii}! a lixed light as before' mentione<|
lies '2{ miles S. \ E. from I'omI Island, on which is also a lii^'iiihouse, coiriainiiiga fixed light,
is reniarknhle w lien beariiii: (ast or west, lieiinj marly U miles from land, und when it bears nOrt|
shuts in with it. Cape small roirit bears N. \V. from it, and Wood Island N. N. W. 1| mile dij
tant. There are ficvernl rocky ledyes near Scgiiine, which hear from the light as follows; 5 fathoil
Icdjie S. by \V. distant three (|imrterH of a mile — l'<llini;win)d's Rock north, one quarter of a inilel
Seguine I^dt'cs. N. N. E. half a mile, nlwavs drv — .lack-knifc Lcilgc, N. W. l\ mile, 8 feet waf
—Wood Island Reef, N. N. W. 1 J mile, 4 feet water— Whale's Buck, N. N. E. 1} mile.
— • ■•• -^'-— ^^ — LiaMliiliaatlm.-...^-^^.^.--.
150
BLUNTS AMERICAN t OAST PILOT.
sin^ Kllin}»w()o(|'s Kork, brimj S«'i,Miiiip Li^lil l(» IjCiir S. iirul sirrr N. for Pond TsIiMul*
Li>{lit, whi( li is'.'l milt's from Sc^uiiii'. Lciifiin; I'oml Island ;i ciililf's Icn-tli on tin- Im-
boiird li;ui(l, rare should bt* takfii on tiif llnod lidc to haul (jUii kly round i'untl Island Point
to avoid tlicSuK^r Loaves, (two small islands norlh lialla mile tVom Pnnd Island) upon
which the tide sets very strongly. Tiie course alter piissinj; INnid Islisnd. is iihout N. W.
to the fort on f llunnewell's Point, (which y(Mi will i^ive a licrih of a calile's lenuili) and
«teer north for ("oxe's Head (on whi( h also is a fori) one mile. 'I'lie coiiise is then N.
K. to Perkin's Island, which you will Icivi- on llic slarlioard hand aliout one mdc, and
you will >;ive it a berth of a cable's leiiiith to shun two sunken ledges that lie nearly
abreast of Perkin's Island, and about in the iniildle of the river'; then steerinj; about
north one mile, yon have line nm Imrauc at I'erkins' l-'lats, in t. "j, and fi faihoins. This
is as far as it would be iirudent for a siraiiKcr lo attempt with a hi'avy vessel.
There is good anchor iL;e in niodcrale weather any wlieie between Se;:ume and I'oiid
Islnn<l, within half a mile of the latter, in from '> to H fathoms .'should the w'luA \>\ >w
violently, or in case of stress of weather, and if far enou;,^h to windward to wt-alher Kllin;:-
^ood's Rock and Se^uiiu' Ledi^es, it minht sometimes be advisable to run lo Townseml
<|iarbor.t
If bonm] into Kennebeck, ami falliii.: to the eastward of Se:;uine, brim; the lijilil on
Pond Island to bear N. W. by W . and run lor it till within a cable's leh;;th, then lollow
tbe preceding directions.
Tnerei is safe .aDchora<;e with an olf-shore wind, any where between .'<mall Point and
Segttine, avoiding Jack-knife Ledf^^e, beloie mentioned.
Safe anchorage may he h;\d from ('oxe's Head to Perkins' Island, nearest the ea.-teiii
shore. The usual rapidity ut,tliP Ui\r, between Se;;iiine and the mouth ol the river, is .'{
and 4 knots. -.
There it also a passirge into Keimebec River, leavini,' Pond IslantI, on the starboard
iQC^'but only 16 feef'can Ije carried at hii;ii water, and it is not recommended.
^Ob have deep water to the eastward of Seguine. At the westwaid the tide (d'llood sets
li-f trong tiQ^the 'northward into New iMeadows. and \V. N. W. into IJroad .Sound, iuul up
tM ^^ Portmd. and the ebb tide the reverse. Vour soundin{;s, botwePii Seyuine and Capo
' ^''^lizabfj^iihf*- Various ; at times you hmc If or •.'(! fathoms, rocky bottom, and within a
ii cable's v^l^^ you will find .30 or .35 fathoms, nmddy bottom.
Thci rlanl'tl^ween Segulne and (Jape Kli/.id)etli. is all in islands : on the Cape is a py-
QSidt biW^ltg S. 1" W. from Portland l^ighthonse, 4 miles distant, and a windnnll tollie
t^rdtOsar Richmond's Island, wliicli is the first wimlmill you sec when comini: from
eaatwaid' Riehmond's Island lies 1 league west of Poitlaml, and has a bad ledjie
llboatS. E, from the N. E. end of it. half a mile distant.
[you are bound to §Slieppscut River from the vve^-iward, and make Sei,'nine Lis;lit.
ihiny leftve it on your starboard hand, {.'ivin;; it a berth of half a mile ; when you pass
ip thf} eastward you must bring it to hear S. W. by S. and steer N. K. by N, which
rsewrll carry you to Ebenicook Harbor, distant .3 leagues, leavin? three dry ledjies on
r starboard hand, and one on your larboard. This harbor is very narrow at the en-
, but makes a large basin when ynu tret into it ; in the enirance it liesK. \. K.
oannpt get in'tiere, with a N. K. or easterly wind, but must have the wind south or
terly faft^jr yotl get into this harbor you must haul up N. E. or N. E. by N. for there
"P several 8^K.eil^ro<>ks on the starboard hand as you co in, wliich yon are to avoid.
,e best ancnqrage js against Capt. Smith's Whari, where you are 4 t'athoms, muddy
ttom; and yflA**rflBlie safe from all winds. But if you are bound up .**lieepscut River
f large vessel, apd come from the westward, you must go to the sou'hward of Sesruine
^l, steering about N. E. or N. E. by E. 1 league, and when the river bears north, or
irfh a tittle westerly, you may run north, and must keep the starboard hand best on
rtl : there, are many rocks and ledges, some of them above and some under water,
luMlt^l
u
*^^.
^
k'
"• The lantern of Pond Island LielitlioiiPe contains a fi.xcd light, i2 feet above the level of the sea,
leaving N.^ W. from Seguine Light, distant 2J miles.
■f A dry dock lies ofT the eastern shore, about half a iniN iihove the lower Fort, called Shng Rock,
«nd is the only obstacle bet wren HiinncweJI's Point and < 'oxe's Head.
' \Vith the wind at N. \v . •■nd a flood tide, you may, by fetching within a cable's length of the
lower Sugar Loaf, and leaving it on the larboard hand, run into good and safe anchorage, in from
^ to 3 fathoms, in I'eald's Ed<ly.
§ Hendrick's Ilci.d Light is siuiated at the mouth of Shecpscut River, and is a fixed white light,
elevated 30 feet above the level of the sea.
If bound lip Shrepscut "iver, pass f-'egiiine Light to the southward, steer N. E. until you bring
Hendrick's Head Light to bear north a little westerly, then run for it, keeping the starboard shore
close aboard.
/
"^r
ill.- 1.11-
1(1 rtiiiit
nl) ll)Hltl
II N.W.
Utll) lUlll
tlKMl N.
iiilc, ami
f lusirly
ij; alii>\rt
s. TliiH
ind I'tiiid
IikI I.I »v
ft- Klliii^I-
ruwiiseinl
!• li(;lit oil
ICIl IllUllW
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
151
'0111
t anil
/
lie tUftcni
; liver, is ."5
■ stari)(iai<l
)r(ln(ni sots
11(1, iiiid up
• and Tapo
nd within a
ape is a ])>■-
[(hnilltollie
linii; iVdUi
l)ad Ifd^e .
nil' Li!:1it.
II you pass
N. wiru ii
ledues OH
at tiiP en-
's K . N . J'-" •
id south or
N. I'd I- thfiB
re to avoid,
ms. muddy
iiscul Kivcr
(iCSeiiuine
IS noith, or
and best on
indcr water,
vcl of the sen,
d Shot' Rot-k,
length of the
rage, in from
>d white light,
itil you bring
irboard shore
whieh ar'» all to the eintwardof Sp;;iiinr. \\'h«*n you get upnH liiah as Ehpiiirook, yon
leave llic two Mark Islands (ui your larho'ird hand, kecpint: your course north a little
easterly, l)Ut ifyou only eoiue here to make a harhor, when you jji f uptoCapl. llodyson'H,
y(ui will see a hare U'djji' on your larlioard hand, if it is low water, which is covered at
hiirh water; you tiny anchor at H fathoms to the nortliwanl of it.
On Little Slark Island a Stone Column is erected, as a landmark for vessels running
into, or passing, either llarpswdl or IJroad Soiin<l. It is also ;i conspicuous mark for
the inarmer, siandim; in Irom sea, in any direction helwc«>n Cape Kli/.aheth and Cape
.Small I'oint. This i.shind, at the entrance of I larpswcll Sound, (half wav hel ween Port-
land and tlu* entrance of the River Keiine!)eck,) is oiiH-fonrth of a mile ui length, with-
out trees, its elevation tu feet aliove the level of the sea; the c(dii?nn is placed near the
centre of the isLind. .')!• leet hii;li, paiiiteil perpendicularly in lilack and white stripes, ex-
cejit near the top, which is hlack on each side. Course u|) 1 larpswcll Sound, N. E.^N^
Bearing hi/ Comixis,'), and ili.slann>s in slatiilr miles from the ccHtunn,'
T« .lie Column on Cape F.lizahelh S. W. \ W.
" the outer ( ireen Island S. \V. hv W
Mark Island Ledge...
.South Pilot of ,Fa(|uish
I.'i mile;*..
6 do.
1 lall-wav Rock S. I.v W. J W 4 do.
Drunkard's Led-e S. l' \V. to Sf'^ W-. . V, A%
S. K. I S v"*** t ^***
K. IS. ...: ?;. 11 do4
I iirnip Island K. -J N, ........ .... If do.
Cape Small Point K.hvS. 10 ^0.
Whale Hock (out of water) S. \VMv W
Haddock Kockor IslamI (N. point) N. W. tAV,...;
S. W. point of llaskill'slsland N. N. W...; ,
.Middle of Kagle Islami W. N. W. ^ W...v.. \\
Mackerel Cove E. N. E 9
Ifyou want to <ro uj) to Wiseasset Point, you must keep your starbdlli&' hfi||d bMt
aboard, north-easterly, till you come to Cross River, which you leave onyolklPftlilUounl
h uid. ^'ou will not attempt to go up to Wiscasset Point with a head wind Mill tlhl tide
of ibb, for it is 1 leagiu* from Cross River; but when. you have a fipir WJiid ilodi i
you may proceed without fear. This river is narrow, and lies mora to tliis irtMn
when you are aboi,it a mile or a mile and a half up, you must keep yoar hlir^iaiml iljli
best on board, for there is a ledge of r(>(ks which reaches near halfway acroflfl me'tllrei
which is on your starboard hand, and the rock near the middle is covered- at t|u|ii*ratl
hut may be seen two hours before. The river rut;.i straight to Diecker's NaW^dl^, th«
turns round to the westward : when you enter these narrows, you may see thefoVn.
case you should go up in the night, you tiuist be careful of two large rocks t^at U«
S.- VV. of these narrows ; liie tide of Hood sets very strong for them, and they are covefjj
at half tide ; you may go on either side of them, and may. anchor in 10 or 12 fittha
water, muddy bottom. , '- . '
It is high water here, at full and change of the moon, about 10 h. 45 Ql. "* •
NEW MKADOWS.— This river bears N. E. 8 leagues distant CrdmJhe Pyramid Ol>
Cape Elizabeth, and about one league west from Cape Small Poi^. Ifyou abOuld <^ '
into this bay with the wind at S. E. or .S. S. E. and bound to the eastweft'd, you majT IQldlo
a good harbor in the above river. In standing to the northward, you will havo ft lai^
round island on your starboard hand, covered with spruce-trees, together with two b(||te
ro( ks, one called the Brown Cow, and the other the White Bull, which are 801U9 dlfl"
tance from each other. You must leave the 11 rown Cow on your starboard, and tne' '
White iiull on your larboard hand, the latter of which you may go within a cabie'ttj
lengtii of, and when you have passed it, must stand over for Horse Island, that ties fl|
the starboard, which has a luiuse on it, that you may go within a quarter of a miJc 'ofi^
To the westward of the island lies a large ro( k, which is covered at high water, bat bar«t
at half tide ; you may go on either side of it when it is in sight, but the widest passage U(
to the eastward. When you have passed this rock, steer N. I)y W. or N.N. W. which
course will carry you up with a large island, called Bear Island, which is covert with
spruce and birch trees. When you have passed this island about one (piarter of a mile.
you may haul in for the starboard shore, and anchor in 5 or 6 fathoms water. This it
the best place to anclior, witli the wind at S. .S. E. or east, but be careful of a ledge of
rocks that runs to the northward of this island, about a half a mile off. You may anchor
in this bay according as the wind may be ; if it should be at tiie eastward, anchor on the
east side. Ifyou have lost your cables and anchors, there is a large cove on the star^
board hand, about two miles from Bear Island, bearing about N. which is sufficient
/
f
■•f I "mp-,^1
•w '"m
152
BLUNT H AMERICAN COAST PHOT.
hnlil ;)0 or 10 t«iiil of vrNMclH. It i.t luiKl-locked all round, mo that no wind can dauinifc m
VfttNfi litter nIm- nctx into i(.
I^^'^SK^''S .soUM). — ir you rome from flir isintward, and niakr ftrc>ii'>«' I-"!*:'''*
briii^ it to bi'ar K. and stcrr W. for lliissry'H Sound, il you iiavt; a tair wind and day-
\\n\u, as you II ivf iiotliiiii; Ixil islands on your slarlxiard hand Tin- lidt- ol° Mood sets
very Ntron<{ in In tweeti these islands: when you );e( wiiliin two iniles nt' I lu'>seyV Sound,
you will make t\ro islands wliieh have no trees on th^iii, ealled (ireen Islanils. \ Hit
continue your course till you make llusse_\"s .*smiiii<I, liearin;; N. .\. K. then you may
8teer m with your <oiirse .N. N. K.
Wlien you pass the two islands after enterina; lliissey's Sound, yon leave three isl-
ands on your larixiaid, and two islands on your staiiioard hand; the northern island, on
your Mtarhoard, is e'alli-d Smith's Island; when yon pass said i-ijand altnui lhree-(|uarters
of a mile, you may haul away K. N. K. till you shut in said island to the S. K. then you
may anchor in H or !< t'athoms, muddy hottom; llo;;: Island to the S. W. Maskel l>land
to the fi.M^. (ireat (iaheuiie Island to the N. K. atid Smith's Island to the S. K. Here
you may Moor 'iOOsail of ships, sale from all winds, and wlien wind and tide serve, you
may be out to sea in one hour.
HALF-WAV KOCK is hi^h and l,laik, ahoiit f.no feet in diameter, elevated Hi feet
above the level of the nca, at hi^h water. At the distance ol dlX) feet Ironi the rock, on
the N. W., N., N. K., K. ai:d S% K. side, there aN" iVom .") to (>, and i;ra(lually deepens to
90 ffathoDlS, within three quarters of a mile of it. A reef extends olf W. Iiy .S. distant
about no eighth ofa mile. Wiihiii one calile's lenuth of said reefymi will find linni ID
to 12 fathoms water. You may near this rock on all -.ides within a ipiarter of a mile, and
And fruin 15 to 25 fathoms water. Sej;uine Liylillii use hears from the rock K. ', N.
itistant about 16 Miles ; Drunken Ledges, N. N. K. distant alioiit J', miles ; Mark Island,
N. by £. ^ E, 'distant about 4^ miles ; the lifjhthouse on Cape Kli/.alieth, S. \V. hy W.
f 'W^ distant ab;)Ut <f miles; Cod Hock, (shoalest part.) .*<. \V. hy S. distant ahout (>
inil«a) Portland Lighthouse, W. ^ S. distant alidiil II', miles; (ireen l>lands, W. [ N.
distant aftotit 6 miles; JowillV iHland, N W. hy N. distant ahoiit .'{ miles; Kai:!e'ls]-
aod, :UOrti||^4lboat 4| miles. Drunken Ledges may he seen at all titiies, hreakin^ with a
little^ molioif of the sea. Mark Island is a sniiill hare island, and has a stone monument
^: . eCfcfed OK|Mf ^ guide for vessels riinnim; into Hroad Sound. Ka<zle Island is a small
"^^ ,b%h;.klaod^<lOVered with trees, .at the entrance of said sound. Mark l>land and Kauie
iwljid form the eiuitern side of the entrance to l>road Sound. Itrown Cow and .lewill's
•lauds ilGnrigat|l0 western side. Greon Islands are two in iiumlter, and hear iVom .lewill's
»od,S..'W. distant about one :>nd a half mile.
pod Ledge is about half a mile in eircumfereiu e, and has im the shoalest part of it
i^.|tQd-a iKilf fathoms, at low water, and ;j;radi!ally deepens to ■'>, ■'), 7, h, ami IJ fithoms,
' \pma%tfOm Portland LighthouHc, K. S. K. ilistant ahoui 7 miles, and I'rom Cape
eUl Lightliouse, E. by N. half N. distant ahout .3 miles ; (ireen Island S. S. K.
itant about 3 miles. This ledge often breaks in a heavy south-east f;ale.
:P0RTLAND harbor.— A Buoy has been placed on Alden's Kock.olflhe li-ht-
)ttBes at Cape Elizabeth. The followiiiir is the report upon that subject.
AnchOted at low water, in seven fathoms, near Ahlen's Led^'e.
KtUf(^*s Sound bears from the Buoy N. about H'v miles distant.
Northern Lighthouse on Cape Eli/.abeth, N. \V. by W. \ \V.
Southern Lighthouse, on the same, N. W. iiy W. ,'; \V. distant ?> miles.
The Barn on Richmond's Island W., distant l ', miles.
Portland Lighthouse,. N. N. \V. \ W.. <lisiaiii (.j miles.
Wood Island Lighthouse, S. W. by \V. j W., distant i:! miles.
sThe most dangerous part of this ledije are two roiks beiirinj^ from ea< h other K. S. E.
iod W. N. W. The distance betwet n these rocks is -IJO feet.
The Western rock is about i-i feet in diairu'ter, and has 6.\ feet on it at low water.
The Eastern rock is ahout .'30 feet in diameicr. and has but 7", feet at low water. Be-
tween these rocks are .3, 4, and .'j fathoms. The Western rock bears from the Buoy S.
by W., distant 240 feet. The Kastern rock bears S. E. A S., distant 5'J') feet. At the
distanQ<e of 600 feet from the Kastern rock, on the .South East, Kasi and North K.ist
sides, are 4, 5, and G fathoms water. At tlje distanec of JOOO feet from the Western
rock, on the South West, We»l and North West sides, arc (j, 7, and H fathoms.
Vessels bound to Portland. fallin<r in to the Westward, and making Wood Island
Light, must bring it to bear S. W. by W. ,' W., and steer N.E. by E. { E. 13 miles,
whicliwill bring them up with the Buoy on Alden's Ledg?.
Should they fall in to the Eastward, and make Seguine Light, they must bring it t(>
bear £. by N. j N., and run W, by S. f S. 9 leagues which will bring them up with the
^ Buoy.
iM
h
J
..^'.iiJMfli.
31=
ULr.NTS AMIIIICAN TOAMT I'H.OT.
153
liyhi-
In paMiiin({ the niiny tn the K., f,\v(t it a bprth of mie (|iiartcr uf n milf. If to th*
Went Villi iiiHy iifiir it wiihiii a i'alili''i« h-ii^th.
Il luniiiiii; tor I'lirtlaiid llarltor, liriiiu llie liiioy tii liear S. S. K., ami sfrr N. N. W.
(i{ iiul>"«, wliii II will liiiii'.' v«u ii|i»itli I'lirtlaiid lii(;lit. ('ontiniu thin rniirNc iiiitilyou
uri* halt a iiiih' wiiliiu the 1<ikIi||iiiiisc, ihcii liritiu it to Ix'ar S., and Miti-r N. Iiv W. lor
lliiiiHi- JMlaiui. mIiiiIi is 'wo iiiiIi-k N. I>\ \V. rrotii I'lirtlaiid hiuht >Shiiiild you wish tQ
);i. Ii.rih<*r ii|> t!ie liarlini, tullnw liit- din-rlions id tht* < 'oai<t I'llot.
'I'll)- • wiir««> litiiii till' llimy tn liussi-y's Sound is North.
VesMftls tall.ii^ in wiih ' ',i|m' Klizaln-iii. and wi^'liin.; to in iki- a harbor in a ittrniig N. W.
tvind, iiMist oIhitvi' tin- rnllnwinu diri't linns :
tJnf tills l',\\)v a liiTili It! out- rpiarti'r of a inih", and stoiT N. K. nitie mile*, leaving
till' (iriTii Isliiid on the Niarlioard hand, wlinh will rarry yoU up with llie S. W. point
ol Ciiiti'li Isl.ind. tiivKtlii-; point a ImtiIi id liall a mile, and si -er N. N. K. \ V.., which
Will carry you between llo|ie Island mi the North and ( 'roii-li loland on the fiSoiith. Vou
may anrhor luidttay between the two Island.s, in about I'i I ithoiiis water. The Rhore4
on eaeli side are verv bold.
'I'lie above ineiitiuned liiioy is a spar, painted red, about twenty feel above the surfnee
ol the water, with a si.itl about IJ liet in length, to whn h is attached a red tlag, which
ran be seen Irom d to 7 miles.
There are ;dso two wateli lltioyu, within I'> to JO feet of the prineipal Uuoy.
N. H. \'ess"|s lit a laii^e drauijlit will lind the best water by bringing Portland Hghi
to bear N. W. by N., and runnin.' direelly for if.
(oiiiin;; Iroin tlie sduih-west.vanl, when within lialf ;\ mile of *Cape EliMbflth*
tlic red buoy, on iiroad Cove llmk may be seen; it bears N. N. £. from ths pilch
of the rape, distant one and a half niile, und lies in twenty-four feet water. WKei) lift
with this buoy, leave it on the larboard hand, half a eable'n |pni;th diitant, nndaUt/ttf,
by K. }, K. I mile, which wdl '-any you up with tliewhite buoy uii Truu(l)'aH«(M»i>llid|-
lie.s ill lb t'eet water. <Hvin!{ il the s.imu oerth as the otiier, you may then rn N> bj
W. \ \V. for f I'orfland iii^jlithouse, :i miles distant. When up with thfihea^toi
the li;;litliiiiise stands, ^ive it a small lierth, and steer N. by W. leaving Ban£*j^||Ui||K| QH'
the starboard hand, till you eoiiie to House Island, the 8. W. point of whiefe ImNuJi N«
from the li<;hiliiiuse, distant almost 'J iiiilci. Before you are up with tfalf faAuidi (b«
black buoy on Sprinii l'"iiit I.eilye may be seen ; it bears N. W. by W. frOBj tkefl. Wf^
part of House Island, distant half a nuie, and lies in 14 feet water. When tt||widii*"
buoy, you open the town. (Jivin:: the black buoy a small b«»rth, you may haullilk,!
W. (or the white Imiov on Stanford's Ledi;e ; this buoy lies also in 14 feet watert
one mile distant iVom Sprini,' I'oinl lied;;p buoy, (livini; the whito buoy a small
you may keep np midway t!i>' rivor, and anchor opposite the towq, where you j4eM9f
safety.
X'essels romiiii,' from sea, and bound into Portland, may. by giving the lights OQ CJapi!..^'
Kli/abelh a lierih of | nnles, run to tin norihward nnd eastward until Portland I^igbt
buar.s N. W. and then stand directly fur it, which will clear all the led^ei.
» Cape I"'Ii-/.abeih I.iubts are sitiintril oriCnpe Rliznbeth, entrance to Portland Harbor, about t,jff
feet iil)()\r the level ol the Sea, and 300 yards apart, l>i aring from ooch other S, W. ^ W. and N. Bi
) ]•]. The western li^ht revolves oiicu in two minutes, and can besoon tan leagujs distant in clew
weailinr.
!•;. S. K. from these liudits, 2' miles distant, is n (bimreroiis ledffc, called Alden's Rock, with fiiQi
feet water on il nt low tide. Also u reef, rallfd 'riivlor's Reef, bearirig S. E. by 8. 1| mile distant
haviiiK ~i lathoms nt low water. K. by N. \ N. from the !ii;hts ."^l miles distant, lies Bulwarll
Li'di/e. Imvinj.' 2^ fatlioins on it at low water, rortland l.iLdit i>oar8 north-easterly from them, dia».
tiinl .')} miles.
The t<>i\:winc: arc the l)enrint;M and disinm-rs Irom the nortli.eastcrly light, of ih ■ ihoals and reels,
andufui r liKluhouMcs in Mii,'lii of and luur ilie Cape, vi/ :
Alden's Rock S. K. bv E 2| miles,
Huennd Cry H. K. 4 S 3* do,
Tavloi^ Reef. S. S. K. 4 E l} do,
Drond Cove Roek N. \. H. 4 E l\ do.
Outer point of ^Valcli Ledne S. W. \ .S 2 do.
S. E. side of Richmond Island H. W 3^ do,
Seiruine Li^ht E. bv N. i N 24 do.-
Wood Island Lijiht S. VV. 4 W IO4 do.
Portland Head Light N. i E 4 do.
t Portland Tiiybthouse is on a point of land, called Portland Head, at the western entrance ol the
harbor. It is a stone edilice, 72 feet high, exclusive of the lanUirn, which is 13 feet, and ooat&ina
a fixed light.
SO
154
BLI NT 8 AMERICAN COAST Plf-OT.
There are also t vo small buoys, on two Jedges in Wliilehead Paosapp, at the N. E.
part of Bang's Island. This passajje is narrow, and but sfidoni used witii lar.^e vessels.
By kcc;,ing midway between the two buoys, the red on the starboard, and the white on
the larboard hand, in roniing in, you will have not less than 5 (allionis water. Alter
passing the buoys, keep midway the pas.sage, and run one mile distance, which will
carry you into .Ship Channel, the same as it you had passed the lighthouse.
[N. B. All the abovementioned buoys are to be left on the larboard hand, in coming
in, and the depth of water put down, is at low water.]
Note. — ///'.'/ licc'deul either of the huot/s should be removed, thefollowiiifr directions for
tailinfr into Forlland Harbor irilj be found tisfful.
When you come from tlf south-westward, and intend to go into Portland, give Cape
ElizabetFNl berth of haifa n.ile, and steer N. N. K. until you bring Portland lighthouse to
bear N. N. W. when you :nust haul up N. N. W. if the wind will permit; but if yo'i
are in a large «hip, ai;d the wind N. W. or W. i\. \V. your salest way is to continue your
course N. N. E witich will carry you safe into Uussey's tSoiind, allowing it to be tide of
flood, as Portland-^iiound is narrow, but bold between the li;;hthouse and Bang's Island,
tbe latter of which is on your starboanl hand. If you should tmii into Portland in the
night, in standing to the south- westward, you must go about as soon as the light bears
N. K. W. and in standing to the eastward, you nmst go about as soon as the light bears
W. N. W. for there is a ledge of rocks that bears .S. by K. from Portland liiihtliniisc,
and also a low island, called Kam Islan 1, cast northerly, one mile distant from the li^ht-
boutie: but if you have a leading wind you may go in without fear, ke«pin<; about middle
of the channel way, and when abreast of the light, steer alxi-.u N. by \V. tor House Island,
which you leave on your starboanl hand ; when you pass House Island, bring it to bear
S. E. by E. and steer N. W. by W. or W. N. W. with the fide of Hood. In steering the
above course, you Ijjill see a round bushy tree to the north of the town, and a house with
a~edrooT^-aDd one i^imney ; bring the tree to the west of the house, which course will
cnrrn^ yott.,u|l'tlie channel way, in 6 or 7 fathoms water; but when you come abreast of
' die ibrt ^!b^]&-tXands on a hill, haulaway W. S.W. as there is a shoal bank on your star-
bQarll l^d that has not more than 10 or IJ feet on it at high water, which you are to
>;^void. Mejlfe you will be careful of two ledges of roi ks. one tailed Spring Point ledge,
two ilpiijM N. by.W. i W. from the lighthouse, and the other three miles, bearing N. by
■' W. ^Wii called Stanford's ledge, which has a buoy on it, and stretches off from your lar-
lioamhatid near half a mile in length. They lie to the S. W. of House Island, and are
isll bare at low water. If-^ou are obliged to turn in here, they are much in the way, and
when you are standing to the southward, be carel'ul of them. The marks will do in the
dey-time, but are of no service in the night. There is a pilot who generally attends here.
jV*!? 'JOhis harbor is open to tlie wind at N. E. and E. N. E. If you should come in a dark
|iicht« your best way is to go into Hog Island Road, which may be done by steerins as
- fi»li<l*8 J— when you pass the lighthouse, steer i\. by W. until you pass Bang's Isl.'nd,
Which you will leave on your starboard hand; in steering this course, you will make
H^tus Island, which you will leave on your larboitrd hand ; when you are between both
of thesfe islands, you steer N. E. by E. till you come to the second island on your star-
tKMl^d band. If it is day-time, you will see a larire house on said island, and may anchor
es-'sooii a« abreast of it, in iu or 12 raihoms, nuiddy bottom. [See the PLAN.]
If you shoulcU"all into the eastward of Portland, and make Seguine Light, bring it to
bear'E. and steer W. which course you are to continue till you make Portland Light to
bear from N. W. ti W. N. W. when you may run for it without fear.
You rniiHt have some regard to the tide of Hood, which sets very strong between the
islands to the eastward of Portland. [Seethe PLAN.]
. -■ MASTEB.3 who sail from Portland, or ports adjacent, are informed, that from the
"^ Obskrvatorv on Fort Hill, by means of the telescope placed there, vessels approaching
the coast may be discovered at l.'j leagues distance ; and their colors or private signals
can be distinguished 8 leagues, if the weather should be clear and the colors hoisted, or
suspended in such a manner as to j)resent them fair to the observatory. Should any
need assistance, they will set their ensign over their private signals; and may be assured,
if they can be discerned, that their situation will be made known to their owners. ,
The Observatory bears N. N. W. | W. from Portland Lighthouse, 4 miles distance;
and these, in ran^e, are ;• good mark to clear Alden's Rock ; which, keeping the above
in range, yoti will be nearly tiiree-quarters of a mile to the eastward of.
The Observatory is on an euiinence 111 feet above high water mark ; and the building
32 feet high, painted red, and t'le telescope placed near the top.
BOON ISLAND. — This i-land is very low, about one-quarter of a mile in length.
A Lighthouse is built on the >vesf part of the island, a little to tlie westward o( the former
light. It is 50 feet above the surface, shows a fixed light, elevated about 7l> feet above
the level of tjie sea, is a fine light, %nd may be seen 6 or 7 leagues distant.
ij^
f
Tl
betwi
parts
miles
Dud
one-l
k\
BLINT S .4MEKI(AN COAST PILOT.
155
at the N. E.
<irge vessels, '
the whitp on
'ater. Alter
, which will
1, in coming
directions for
tl, KJve Cape
itjhtlioiise to
; but il yo'j
aniiniu' your
to be tide of
fine's fsliind,
rthuid in the
e light Ijears
? light bears
liiihthoiise.
Ml llie iigiit-
bout middle
oiise Islnnd,
igit to i)CHr
steeriiit; the
1 house with
course will
le abreast of
n your star-
1 you are to
Point ledge,
'aririg i\'. by
)inyour lar-
uid, and arc
le way, and
ill do in the
tteitds liere.
e in a dark
sfeerina; as
ig's Isi.md,
will make
tween both
your star-
av anchor
i
bring it to
d Light to
Jtween tlie
from the
iproaching
ite signals
oisted, or
iKuld any
0 assured,
distance ;
the above
building
n length,
he former
"c'ct above
n
!
t
/^
There is a passage between the ishnd and the main, lialf a mile within the former,
between I ami ') miles wide, in from Iv,' to -JO fatlioms, nearly up with \'ork Ledge, some
parts of which are above water at low tide, and bears from the island W. by S. about 6
miles distant; the Nubble N 5'^° W. U miles; Boon Island Ledge K. | N. 3 miles;
Duck Island S. 52° W IJ miles : there is a 'odue off the north part of Boon Island,
one-fourth ofa mile distant, which shows at low water.
The fallowing are Uie soundings around Boon Island,
Boon Island Lighthouse bearing W. \ S 1 mile distant, 21 fathoms.
do U do. '^5 ditto
do 1^ do. 24 ditto
\V. IN a do. 12 dnto •
\V. i' N 2 do. 8 ditto
W. bv N 2 do. 18. dlttiv
W. by N. \ N. i; do. ^«3 ditto
S. E.bv S.". ... I do. 15 ditto
S.K.l'L 1 do. 23 ditto
S. K. bvE....2 do. 12 ditto -
E . j N . ! 4 do. 18 ditto v
[NoTK. — To Capt. 'I'no.MAs M. .^ aw, I'nited States Revenue Cutter, stationed off
Portsmouth, (N. 11.) we are indebted tor information respecting White and Boon Iftlfind
Lights, and confirmation that (inn Boat Shoal, otf Portsmouth Harbor, in correctly laid
down on the PLAN here pulilishcd.]
From Agamenticus Hill, Boon Island bears S. E. distant 5 or fi-leagues, and whea
you come in from sea, and make Agamenticus Hill, being N. W. lB|f«."you are tbOQ to
the westwird of Boon Island Lcdue. but when said hill bears N. W. by VV. y6tx lire tO
the eastward of it. From Boon Island to Cape Elizabeth the course is N:. E, distant
about 40 miles.
I would reconmiend to all mariners, in coming from the eastward, not to 'go to the
northward of lat. 4.^- N. in thick wt-atlier, unless they are well acqiiainteo, and jttdge
themselves to be to the westward of Boon Island Ledge, as this has proved fatal toffiany
who were una((|uainted.
We have been informed there is a ledjie of rocks due north from Ficon Island, one
mile distant: the gentleman who gave the information, since deceased, and whose vert-
city and experience could be relied on, said. " I have passed -(Ji^ place several times, but
never disc(jvcred the ledge till tli<' year 1783, when, being bolffid to the eastward, the
wind took me from the westward, but the vessel liaving no morethan steerage way, I hove
over a line to catch tish, and I'ound I had 04 fatlioms water, sandy bottom, and in a few
minutes I liad but 10 feet of water, and my vessel drawing 9 ; all that saved me from
striking was, that the water being entirely smooth, the current set me to the eastward,
and I got into 24 fathoms within the length of the vessel, from where I aouuded, and ha<l
but II) feet."
WHITE HILLS.— These Hills lie N. W. from Portland and N. N. W. from Wpod
Island lighthouse. You may seelliem in ilear weather when no otliQt part of theland is in
sight. At the fust sight they appear like a cloud, and are always white^ccasioned, it Is
said, by their being covered with while moss. They have been seen when in lat. 43" 10'.
N. 23 miles S. iVrvi the lighthouse on Cape Eli/,al)eth. The depth of water in the above'
latitude is -^0 fathoms, muddy botloiu. When you steer N. AV . or W. N. W. from this
latitude yon will niake Agamenticus lii!Is, and when bearing W. by N. 6 or 7 leagues, ■
they ai)pear like three hills, and the smallest of ihein to the eastward. At the same time '
you will make Well's Hills, lieariiiL: W. N. W. and when yon are on the northern part nf
.leli'crv's Lediie, in 45 fathoms water, vou will sec the hills of Agamenticus bearing W.
by N.'(u- W. N. W.
Between Jcflfiey's and the Isles of Shoals yon will have 70 and 75 fathoms water, mud-
dy bottom, and a strong current setting to th.e S. W. Yon may see the Isles of Shoals
.5 or fi leagues when you are to the eastward of tlietn, but will first see the lighthouse,
which is on White Island, and the meetin;:-lionse on Star Island, bearing N. E. and S.
W. from each other, distant seven-eiclilh> of a mile.
CAPE PURPOISE TO 'WOOD ISLAND LIGHT, KENNEBUNK.— Wood
* Wood Islnnd Li^.'!)! is siiuntcd near the entrunre of Saco River, on the east side of the island.
The lantern is eiovaied 4.'> fict above the level of the s^ea, and contains a revolving light, w Inch may
be seen 7 or 8 leagues dist.int. When you first make it, the eclipse will be total, until you are
within 6 or 7 miles of il, when the light will not wholly disappear, but in the revolationu, the greot-
eat power vf hght will be to the least as 24 to 1.
m
156
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PiLOT.
Island, on which a lighthouse is erected, is high woody land, and very even, and lies 5f .
E. 3 lenmu's distant tVoin (Jape Porpoise. In running for the light, bring it to bear N. N<
W. or N. \V. and run till within a (table's length with safety, ^'oii may go into this har-
bor either at the eastward or westward of the island. There are several rocks to the
Westward of the island, and also a long bar which lies to the S. W. about tliree-;|uarters
of a mile distant, together with two ledges, one of which bears S. K'.hy S. from the light,
distant half a mile, having 10 feet water on it at low tide, and the other is a dangerous
ledge called Danceberry, bearing S. by K. from the light, distant about tlMec-foiirihs of
a mile, and breaks at all times. When you have the wind to the southuani, yon may
lay your course in, and an("lu)r near .*>tagt! Island, on which is a IMonnmcnt : this is called
Winter Harbor. You may go in the eastern way, and have room to turn your vessel,
which is an advantage you cannot have in going in to the westward : iiut here you are
tixposedto thftiwind at N. K. and K. .\. K. but if your cai)!es and anchors are not good,
you m^y ruit>HHO the I'ool, and lie safe from all winds.
In nulniiTg In the eastern passage, you open a small channel for boats only, between
Wood und Negfo Islamls, but no man of experience would mistake it. Negro Island is
Rmall, with two stores on it, and is left on the larboard hand.
Satio litis about a league to the north-west, but is a barred place, and h;'S not above 10
leet at high water, which mak(!s it not fit for a stranger to go in ; there is, however, con-
siderable navigation owned liere, and the inhabitants ai'e enter|)rising.
The n«xt pwce to Wood Island is Richmond's Island, which lies about N. E. norther-
ly 4l|ttKtie9. This place is only fit for small vessels, such as coasters, and but few ves-
aeaw^ in here, it being only one league to the westward of Porthuul, which is the prin-
cipai^rt in the States
In ^ling by Richmond's Island, you nuist be careful of a sunken ledge, called Watch
LjBifgfl, Jthat lies off about S. E. near half a mile from the N.E.end of the island; it
does ttof ahow itself except the wind blows fresh, but you need not go so near the island,
ttnle8A«J^pDr'h>'!r|e.a scant wind, or turning to windward.
At tiM wlttlwBi of Kennebunk Harbor are two piers, one on the eastern and one on the
Westeifl^^e of the channel, running from the shore about II op 4t)() feet towards the bar,
extenid^g a little beyond low water mirk, with a Hag start' and beacon on the top, which
ttiay be gtetA about one mile distant. A ledge of rocks lies off the harbor, called the
Fishing Rocks, distant about three quarters of a mile from the head of the piers, between
which «8 the anchoring ground. The ledge bears due south IVoiti the head of the |)iers,
)bl4^ all covered at high water. Vessels approaching the harbor should keep well to
^g^i eastward of the ledge; though there is a tolerable passage to the westward, but it
iiflght not to be attempted by a large vessel, without a good pilot.
Depth of water on Kennebunk Bar, at low water, from "2 to 3 feet; rise and fall of
common tides from 8«to 9 feet, increasing sometimes to 10 and 12 on full and change.
Time of high water, full and change, llh. I5m.
CAPE NEDDOCK TO CAPE PORPOI8E.—rour course from Cape NeddocU to
Cape Porpoise is N. E. distant 4.| leagues. Cape Porpoise is a i)ad harbor, and not to be
Mtinipted, unless you are well acquainted or in distress. In going in you must leave two
smsUMslands on your larboard hand, and three on your Ltnrboanl. It may be kimwii by
ti^el^tghland of Kennebunk. which lies to the N. W. of it. When the harbor bears N.
^'. you must haul in, but be careful of the point on your larboard hand, and not go too
ttear it, as it is very rocky. As soon as you are in the harbor, and clear of the point of
rocks on your starboard hand, your course must bi; N. W. about two cable's lengths, when
you must come to, and moor N. E. and S. W. or run direct for the wharf. A vessel that
flraws 10 feet will he aground at low water. 'J'he harbor is so narrow that a vessel cannot
11 round ; is within 100 yards of the sea, and secure from all winds, whether you have
chors or not.
CAPE PORPOI.SE HARBOR.— The lighthouse stands on the south-west part
(t)f Goat Island, and contains a fixed light elevated thirty-three feet above tlie level
of the sea. The following are the directions for the harbor: — If you are to the east-
ward, and make Wood Island Light, and bound to Cape Porpoise Harbor, bring Wood
Island Light to bear N. E. by N. and run S. W. until you bring Cape Porjxiise Light
to bear N. by W. ; then steer direct for the light until you shut Wood Island in by
the eastern head of Cape Porpoise Harbor : then you are abreast of a briMkinu ledge
called the Old Prince, which l)ears from Cape Porpoise Lighthouse S. E. by S. half
a mile distant ; then steer N. N. W. until Cape Porpoise Light bears E. N. E. ;
you ai'e then uj) with the entrance of the harbor. Then, if low water, keep midway
between the two points ; but if high water, keep the larboard shore best aboard. When
up with the points, steer N. W. a quarter of a mile, and anchor in three fathoms water,
at low water. By following these directions you will find from .3 to 6 fathoms water.
to coming from 6ea, and making Cape Porpoise, and intending to go into the harbor,
'■". and lips .V,
iiio litTir N.N,
.'<) iiitdtlii.shar-
■'I locks (o the
tiiit'»'-<niartcrs
'Voiii the litrlit,
•■'< a (l.'un.'cron.s
llCC-follldis „|-
'•lis is ciillfd
II Vfiur vossel,
iK'i-f von iire
yn; Hot good,
only, hpfwfcn
e«io Island is
iiof ;d)()ve Jo
lovvi'vcr, ((in-
• K. nortlipr-
linf few vrs-
h is the prin-
:d|pd Watch
K' island; it
'■ the island,
one on the
lids the. I)ar,
top, which
r. calird the
crs, IjctHcp,,
olth
fliers,
vcc|) upII to
^vnnl, but it
and fall of
iiid change.
^^eddock to
id not to he
" leave two
' known hy
ir bears N.
'lot (TO too
le point of
iths, when
vess(<| that
"*el cannot
}ou have
west part
the h-vci
the casf-
iii,' Wootl
ise Lifrht
Hid in by
ntr lediie
y S. hidf
• N. E.:
niidway
Wlien
IS uater,
IS water.
harbor.
■I )
i
«
V. . ///'• * ' .nt
"f"
/, Ul^' ■• • •■» r- — V' . "^.^t — 'J
///,»♦ />•■■ /;» yg
'•"•in, /I ii.,i/i />.•• « .
/..■i.v.,/
»i. v'v '1^, ^1"^^', 111
r /■'/..././.
/t" •••
l,;l.' S.n!. I-
^^:'u
ff' I II i .; ■ ■••I
'.^'•■>l Sin;i i-s
<> »N
n
ti
■' i I'.Tiil lliull S'.».;il
'/
/;//• /■:' /.•'■//■ //■•'/,-
' • ■. i.W rt;„nj'j-::.l:i4'A% ;"'•
-:;^;^-
rjM
/. - /
"■ ■^**"<(J'y -■.; tmr"* <y*»**" <>«■ — Hjiyv-
•■.■«--!:rrT.-rj:l»#^^-:-
I
J'
r
,l"l...t.,.
i;
\
g
f
1
1
,:„
1
1 C'E '
i
\\
l.ir !■: /.V //■ //'/;
III II IIIMB|||>|*«M1II».
—r^jB
//■■.■/.; .!.////■ li^
umiiwiumi mtH . ''!■>'
■■ .M Wl
A
\N
!
^m'^'
,¥■'
'I-^I^
■ '"■< iiJ'iii.i«»'*'i''»»"'^WW|BPiWMiip|
Mi
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'11,'/,-' Or./. \, ■•,■)■'/ A
ULl'.N'f'rt AMi:iMCA\ COAST I'lI.OT.
167
hrinj; the liclit to hfnr N. by \V. nnd follow th«' ahove (lirrctioiiH. Tliis lisirlior in not
HO >iat'e lor \anf,u \esKelM, :ui(l idunI not lit* ulliinptfil iinliss with ii lair Mind. Wood IhI-
liiiid \\e% about 10 iiiileA lo llifN. K. of Cape I'orpoiMi-, and lia^ on it a ri'|i<':itini: lii;lil.
Foll\ Uland Itf.H o|i|Misitc llio li::lilhonM', ttnd iDiins tlit; Mtsttrn Nidi- of (ape Porpoise
IJarlior. Tlie S. S. K. part nl l'"o||y Island rniiil luars troni llip li;;lil, S. \ \V. distant
altoiil 1| nidt'. 'Die slioal rnii» oil nearly tlirci- (pii^rtiM's ol a iiiilc.
NoTK.— A x|)ar lino\. (...inliti rt'd, cirvalcd V li'i't abovf tlii! Mnrlacc oltli*' water, has
hpiMi moored nea^' the Old Printe. in f rallioiiiH water, at low water, and hears Irom Cape
I'orpoise Liijlitliuuse, S. S. K. distant about live eit;liili.s ol' a iinle; Old Prince bears'
from tlir- buoy N. N. K distant alioul one einlilli nl a mile; h'ojly Island I'oint, west,
di<itant about one ipiarter of a nide. In running for ( ape I'orpoise Harbor, ybu may
Ro on either sitic ot' the buoy, by keepinji it cUisc on^joard, and after passing it bring it
lo bear .*<. K. by S. and steer N. W. by N. for tlie enirunee of ilio lianbor, ua#fullow the
abu\e dirt etinns. *
KKNNKIUNK. — A buoy has been n»oored near the Fishing FockH, at the mouth of
tliis harbor. 'I'lie ri>liiny ivoekn exiefid K. N. K. and W. S. \V. nearly half a mile diHtant.
The shoalesi parl>i ol the roekK are bare at 'J hours' ebb, and may be seen breakiogi at all
times, with a little niolion of sen. On thw shoal iliere is a spindle erected, with b amall
cask upon its. end : the buoy bears from tlie spindle, N, K. by K. .'. Ii>. distant about a quar-
ter of a nuie: Iromtlie spindle III the piers at the entrance of ilie harbor, N. K. by N*4N.
distant about 1 mile; KlMiii: Point, H. by N. distant about three quarters of a mile ; Fox
point, N. K. distant ;il)out thnc i|Marleis of a mile; IJootliliy Poiut, N. by W. dUtant
about three (juarters of a mile; lianlin^''^ Hock, \V. N. W. distant about thrM «lghtlM
of a mile. This is a barred harbor, and .cannot be entered except at higl»'-iratiMr< If
bound to Kennebunk, you must leave the s|iindle md buoy on Fishing HocJw!;4^the
hirboard hand, about a ( able's length distant, ami Flying Point and Fux Po'P^ir'thS
starboard hand, and after passing them steer north, or N. by W,.a quarter of IT'ipBWt and
anchor in from .i to 4 fatho<i)s water, sticky bottom, where you may he safe, wljpjjflb^ wind
from .N. K., N. or N. W. Flyina Point ;ind Fox Point are bold, and you may Mar them
to within an eighth of a mile. The abovcmentioned buoy is a spar, paintea Itt^elevated
10 feet :ibove the surface of tht^ water, and is nuiorcd in 4 fathoms at low WIMIk |Cp|B9»
bunk i.s not frequented us a harbor, but vessels may, in stress of weatbw^'^Hk;'|^dJie.
safe, with the winds ;ibovemenlioned. ' ^^HK' |ii
PoKTS.MoCTIi liAKl'.OU.— If you fall into the eastward, make Ca^iFpe^^Qk,
and are bound to Portsmouth, when within half a mile of 8i»:-] Cape, your coili:i^;^^4lt«S..
W. 4 le i:,Mie<. which conrsi- you will contiiuie till you bring "Portsmouth L)glbi^itQiM|iS|».
bear .\. by \V. and the lights on f Whale's IJack to bear N. N. E. when yoil tna^HtD^
within one quarter o( a mile of the former, then steer N. bv E. or.N. l4. E. (teavitfg
\Vhale's Hack LiL'ht on the starboard hand,) having four fatDoms water, until you are
abreast of Porfmouth l/iylit, when you must steer N. \V. vtbiil it beara 8. S. E. and.
am iior ill 'I laihoins. {rood b iitom.
If ctiminu lr(uu the eastward of the Isles of Shoals in the night, bring Portsmouth,
Light to bear. \. \V. by W. , W. which i:onrse will carry vou clear of Durk Island, con-
tinue thiscoupic until White Island Light bears S. S. W. then haul up W. by N. and
co^irinue that course until the li;;hi bears N. by W. when you may run for it with safety.
'^'4
■•^i
• Portsmouth Litrbihouse is at the nuMitlmf tlip hnthnron the west side. The height of the rock,
on which it stands, i.s live frei, mid ilu lu iirlit of the iifrlithoiise, to the middle of the lantern, is 85
feel, niakinu an elevation ot 90 feet iiliove ihe level of the cea. It shows a fi.xed light.
Grx Boat i**'*!.. — Fmir miles from rnrisinouih Litrhtliiiu.se, bearing S 4° W. lies Gun Boot
ShonI, havinc not less than 3^ tnthoiiis on ii, nnd that only on its shonlest pa.-t, which is small*: It
runs K. X. H- and W. ."s. W. aboiii two enhies' lencfdis, uiul licars from Whole's Back Light S. by
\V. i W. Fiwin Odiome's Point S. 4 E.
t Whale's Bai-k Lithiliouse is siiiiiiicd on ili(> cast side of I'ortsmouth Harbor. Its height is 68
feci from low wa:er mark. The base, iiicliiiliMt' the Icilire on which the lighthouse stands, is 24 jf
feel, from thence to the middle of the ujiiier iiiiilern is 4.'}J fret, which allowing llie rise of the tide
10 feet, makes the hei^jht of the liuhl .V* lee I aliove the levil ol' ilie sea. It has two fixed lights, one
ten teci below the other. The upper iifei r has 10 |inteiii lamps and reflectors, and the lower one five
[latent lamps and reflectors. The extreme height of the upper li^lil is ,58 feet.
The followine are the bearings and distances of places from Whale's Back Lighthouse.
Western Sister K 2 miles distant.
Eastern part of Duck Island S. 44 K 7 do.
' Boon Island Light N.78E 14 do.
Odiorne's Point S. 40 W.... IJ do.
Kiu'g Rock Buoy S.23E I do.
158
B 1,1 NT H AMi:iU('AN COAST PILOT.
El
K .
Yoli mny i.lso, if rtiniinsi iVnm sp;i. and iiiakf the I<.|o- of Shoals, and an* fo tliP r,isf«
waril iif ilu'iii. mil for tlniu till williin cine mile <>( i(it« t-iHtern \»U', llirii .sici'i W. \. W.
until Porlsmoiiiii Lij^hi licart N. Iiy W. llien lullow yojr liin-ctions as alfovp, passinjj
Whale's MacU l.n^hl on the siarJMianl liiliid.
n«'alini; iiil<i I'orNiiionili Hailior, it is nut prudent to Hnnd to the enNlward farther than
to hriny tiie li>;ht to hear N. N. W. or to the westward farther than to brini: it to bear N.
by W.
If you come to the westward of the Isles of .'"JlioaN, pvp Wliite Island M^iit a berth
of one milt! and a half, briiii; it to hear east, and then run N.hy W'.for Portsmouth Lii;ht,
' 9 miles distant.
Oil the east side of the entranc*- of tlie harbor, lies Kin's Koek, on uhieh is a White
Buoy, and S. by W. one ipiarter of a mile Ironi the lii/liihoiise lies .*<iillniairs Hoek,
over which is a HIack Hiioy ; both roi ks are under water tiive the buoys a f,'ood berth,
aniii there in no danger.
The following are the bearings and distances of plaeesto be ob8er\'^d and avoideo ^
provchuiK the harbor, vi/.
Kitt'8 Rock Buoy bears S.-J?"" K. 'J miles distant. ^ ,, „ , .i t • i .i
Odiorne's Point, S. r W. ■> niil-s distant. ^ '* ■•"•" ?"'•"'""""»' T.iKhthouw.
When yoti come from the S. W. and makeC^ipe Ann, and to the eastward of the Dry
Salvages, bring them to bear.S. by K. and si"i'r N. by W. or N. .', W. In steering this
course you will make the l.sles of ."^lio ils. froni wliicii yon may take a new depart nie, by
, bringing the lighthouse to bear east, distant T, mile, and run N. by W. fur Portsmouth
Light.
If jrou ore bound to the eastward iVom Porismouth Harbor, you steer S. by K. one
league from the liahthouse, thenstier N. N. K. for Old Vork orCape Neddock, whieli
U 4 leagues from Portsmouth, but if the wind should come from the northward, yoti
must be careful of Y.)rkjliedc;e, whieh bears from .'<wett'$ Point S. K. distant J lea;j;iies.
There isaffnokeu ledge that lies S. W. one mile from York ledi^e ; it is never bare, but
always breaks at low water, and is called the Triangle. Some part of Vork Lediie is
bare syktlf tide, and the N. K. breaker and Boon Island Li<;ht bear K. bv N. and \V. by
V*/'^^^ IJaaHa^HB^HOALS.— -By tne benevolence of the Massachusetts Missifuiaiy So-
[>8criptiona of several i^entlemen in Newbnryport and the neighboring
inuse has been erecteil on !^lar Island (mie of the aliove islands.)
IS the description and relative situation nf the islands; *\\'hite Island
&#,esterniuost island) is a rocky island, three (pmrters of a mile in leonth. from
' .W. and about one mile and three (iiiarters distant from the meeting-house.
is a reef thatr^xtends about one third of a mile from the N. W. end, which, in
liassing, you must give ^^^$4 berth The .S. E. end bears from the nieetiug-house S.
W. I S. the N. W. end f; W. by \V. ^ W.
In running iu for thi« liglU there is nothing in the way when coming from the south-
iWard or eastward, except Cedar Island Ledge, Anderson's Koek and White Island
Ledge.
When ruunin^ in for Portsmouth Light. s;ive White Island Light a berth of one mile,
and steer N. by W. and in so doing you will leave Whale's Back Light on your star-
.^povtd hand.
The following bearings from ]Vliite hlmid Lighthouse^ are the mean of a number of
experiments by compass.
Portsmouth light-house bears N. N. W. distant nine miles. Square Rock lies direct-
ly m the rnnge, distant from White Island (ive-eighths of a mile. Boon Island light,
N. E. by N, distant 14 miles. Cape Ann lights, S. } W. distant 21 miles. Rye me^t-
ing-house, N. W. by W. A W. distant 9 miles. Star Island meeting-house, N. E. dis-
tant seven-eighths of a mile. North-west point of Hog Island, N. by E. y' E. Cedar Is-
'' land Ledge E. by N. 'r N. distant I '; mile. Anderson's Ledge, S. fc. by E. ^ E. distant
1^ mile
le. White Island Ledge, W. .S. W. distant one third of a mile.
• White Island Lighthouse is Iniilt oti the westerninost iplimd of the Isles of Shoals. The heifrht
"of the rock on which the ligliiliinisc Is built, i? 43 feet, and the height of the lighthouse to the middle
of the lantern is 44 feet, nmkinc the whole height of the light 87 feet above the level of the sea.
This light is lighted with 1.') patent lamps and reflectors, on a revolving triangle, the whole revolii.
tion is in 3 mitiules and 15 sccoiuls, showi.ig in this space of time « briurlit red, and a bright and
dim natural colored lif.'ltt. There appears to be a total eclipse of about 15 seconds between each
light at the distance of 9 miles, but within 3 or 4 miles it is visible at all times. The light can be
seen at the distance of 7 leagues.
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BLUNT S AMi:UICAN COAST PILOT.
159
Londoner's (or Lounginfj) Island lios about 1 \ mile to the northward of White Ishnd,
is about five eighths of" a ni'le in ieimth, fVoni 8. to N. and is high at each end : in high
tides the middle is sometimes covered ; a number of rocks lie dose about the island, in al-
most every direction, some of which are always bare. 'I'lie south end bears W. from the
meeting house ; the north en<l W. N. W. }- W . al)out half a mile distant. About halfway
between this island and Star Island, lies a rock which is bare at low water; it bears from
the nieetinc-house N. W. by \V. .', \V. one third of a mile distant.
Star Island (on which the meeting-house stands) is about three-fourths of a mile in
length from S. E. to N. W. and about half a mile in breadth ; it is covered with buildings
on the north side. The meeting-house stands on an eminence a little to the northward of
the middle of the island ; is I'J feet high from the foundation to the roof; to the top of the
steeple is 30 feet more ; the whole height from the surface of the water is about 66 feet ;
it is painted white, and the steeple is placed in the middle of the building; it standi front-
ing the west, and may be seen at a distance of eight or nine leagues, in almost any direc-
tion at sea; it bears irom Thatcher's Island lights ((.'ape Ann) N. 1 E. 6.^ leagues dis-
tant; from Pigeon Hill N. by E. 6' leagues distant; from Newburyport lighthouses N.
E. ^ E. 6 leagues distant; from Portsmouth lighthouse S. S. E. j E. 3} leagues dis-
tant; from the western Agamenticus mountain^. ], E.; from the eastern do. S. \ E.;
from J?oon Island lighthouse S. W. ^ S. 41 leagues distant; from Boon Island Ledge
(which lies one league E. from Boon Island) S. W. by. W. 4',' leagues distapt. Off the
south end of this island, about three quarters of a iriile from shore, lies Andeiiion's Rock,
which is bare at half tide ; in passing give it a good berth ; it lies from ^e meeting-
house S. S. E. :* '^i--
Cedar Island is small, and about one-third of a mile in length from east to 1<r0|t, tittt-
ated between Star and Smutty-nose Islands. The east end of Ceclar Islamd^l^l^s ([roin
the meeting-house E. \ N. and the west end E. N. E. \ E. three-eighths of a |Kfl^«lp^Guit.
A rock lies off the S. E. end of this island, half a mile distant, bare at,h(LVfnde,|i|iii«g
f'-om the meeting-house E. by S. ^/
Between Cedar and Smutty-nose Islands, the Government a few yesm i^ihce erectiOd a
sea Willi, to aflbrd a shelter to vessels from easterly gales, and to make tbe roadsteati off
the Northerly side of Star Island more secure ; the violence of the sea in a short time
greatly injured the wall, so that the object of its erection has been but^^artially efl^^i^d.
Smutty-nose Island is about one mile in length from E. to Wcand'about half a tbile
in breadth; at the west end is a harbor, called Haley's Cove, where 15 or 20 small ir«k-
sels may lie safe from all winds. There are several buildings near this harbor. Thei^ is
a fin"? channel between this island and Hog Island, which has water sufficient for any v^-
sel, keeping near the middle of the passage. The west end of Smutty-nose Island bieara
from the meeting-house N. by E. { E. and the east end E. N. E. about five-eVghths of
a mile distant.
Hog Island is a high island, lying to the northward of Smutty-nose Island; is about
one mile in length from E. to W. and five eighths of a mile from N. to S. The west
end lies from the meeting-house N. by W. \ XV.; east end of do. N. N. E. seven eighths of
a mile distant.
Duck Island (the northernmost island) is a long, low, rocky island, some parts of it are
covered at high water, with rocks projecting in every direction, especially at the N. W.
end, where a ledge runs off half a mile. It is the most dangerous of any of the Isles of
Shoals, and ought carefully to be avoided; it is about seven-eighths of a mile in length
from N. W. to S. E. The east end bears from the meeting-house N. N. E. ^ E. The
west end N. by W. ^ \V. about 3! miles distant. [Q;;;^ See the Plate,]
NEWBURYPORT, IPSWICH BAY, &c.— When you come rdund Cape Ann,
and are two miles to the northward of the dry Salvage Rock, bring said rock to bear S.
E. and steer N. W. by W. 3i leagues, which course and distance will carry you up with
Newburyport Bar. In running for the bar from the eastward, strangers should not ap-
proach too near Hampton Harbor, as off the mouth of it lie several sunken rocks. Hamp-
ton Harbor lies about five miles north from the southern extremity of Salisbury Point,
between which and Hampton Harbor, N. by E. ^ E. from the lights on *Plumb Island, 3
* Plumb Island, so called, is situated between the mouth of Merrimack River on the north, and
Ipswich Bay on the south, and is separated from tiie main land by a narrow sound. Its length is
about 8i miles, and its width from the sea to the main, not more than 500 paces. On the north
end of the island are two lighthouses, containing fixed lights, which are coristandy lighted at night,
and so constructed as to be easily moved, a cii cumstance requisite fron) the frequent shifting of the
bar at the mouth of Newburyport Harbor. This bar is probably formed by the current of the river
in its progress out, meetingf the drift of the sea and opposing winds, and by that means forming a
bank of loose sand, which the strength of the tide is insufficient to force out. It extends across
from Plumb Island, about a mile uclow the lights, to Salisbury Beach. The chaimel over it is ex-
ih
160
BUI.\T S AMKUICAN COAST ril.OT.
J'-V
miles distant, lips nnother liiinKcrous rocli, having only 3', feet water on it. If you go no
farther to tin; westward thaii lor tlie ii;j;IUs on I'liiiiil) Island, to bear S. VV. there i:, tut
daiigiir iViini cither ol the aLovennntioued rocks, Imt tiiat course to tiio bar would run
you on the north breakers ; tln'relori; you must briui; tiie lights to bear W. by ftj. and
anchor in 11 or IJ tathoins water, If tlie tide wdl not peniiit your coming in. No vessel,
ineomiiii; ni, oui;iu to ^o nearer the soutii breaker than 7 raliiiiins water, nor nearer the
north breaker, in coming I'roin the eastward, tlian '> laihoiiis. Tiiere are several pilots
belongin<r to this harboi, who wdl, if |)ossil)U-, be uut.sule the bar, to take command of
any vessel wanting their assistam^e. Jf they cannot, you must keep the lights in range,
and run for them till witiiin a cable's lengtii of the eastern light, when you must haul to
the westward, and anchor between tiie two lights in 4 fatiionis water. A vessel that
draws 10 feet w,\tvr may come in at two thirds dood. Tiiey should always keep to tHe
windward of the bar, unless the wind should be lau'. If the sea is so great as to prevent
the pilot's getting over, a signal will be made by him, when you must run direct for his
boat, lieeping the lights in range, which will carry you safe over. If your cai)les and
anchon are not good, you may bring the western lighthouse to bear .S. K. by S. and
run N. W. by N. tor Salisbury Point ;* but as soon as you make said point, you must
haul up N. W. which course will carry you clear of fiiadger's Kocks, lilack Kocks,
treme.y nattow, and terminated .m each sid" by very (liuiireri)us slioals ; tii'it on the north, called
the North Rttakcr, nnf* t'lat on the south, the Suiith Breaker. Tiic li^'Hihoiiscs are always so
situated as H^ brought in a rnnite by the ninrinev coming over the bur ; and ns by the violence of
winds or -^IJ*^ the bar shifts, tlie lighthouses are shitted to coritorni tu it. by keeping the lights In
one, vessililniay, by day or night, come in wiili safety, and find good anchorage in 4 or 5 fathoms
wateTi atsMMlt or between the two lights.
TiihtptMtk the island bounding on the sea, and extending above half its width, consists entirely
of yellovf wnd, p«rfectly smooth on the beach, but farther from the sea, driven by the wind into hil,
looks, or'b^aps, of fantastic forma, and preserved intliat sl^ape by the successive gruwth of grass
and sbru^ On the back, part of the islrnd, where it is washed by the sound, is an extent of salt
matsh, bounding its whole length. The products of Plumb Island are scar'.ely worthy of remark ;
beach grass is the principal, and is used only for niaiiufucturiiig brooms. A s|jec.js of pluiab, from
which the island derives its name, grows here in tolerable abundance. It is produced on low
running shnibs, on the summit and sides of the sand hillocks ; it is pleasant to the taste, and gene.
rally in its season an article for the market. Fhere is likewise the beach pea, of which little or no
use has ever been made ; and indeed it is not found in sutHcient plenty to become much more than
an article of curiosity. At the southernmost end of the island there are several houses, wi'h fami-
lies, and a considerable spot of land, in good cultivation. To the northward of this, there if> a grove
pfpinetreesofa mile and a half in extent.
To facilitate the means of conveying immediate assistance to those unfortunate mariners who
may be wrecked on this island, a number of gentlemen were incorporated for tlm purpose, and have
eomplejijd a bridge and turnpike road from Newbaryport to Plumb Island. This ruad leads in a
gouth.Q? aierly direction from Newburyport, and the bridge across Plumb Island near about one quar.
ter of a mile to the 3. W. of Seal Islaad. An elegant hotel Las been erected at the east end of the
bridge, within 100 rods of the sea shore, one mile south from the lights. The hotel is painted white,
has three white chimneys, and n:ay serve as a landmark fir seamen.
If a vessel, by stress of weather, should be obliged to run ashore on this island, and the minster can
njake any choice of place, it is most eligible to run on as nearly opposite this house as possible, as
assistance and shelter can be more promptly afibrdcd, and the conmiunieation more direct with
Newburyport.
,'It rarely happens that any life is lost on this beach, in attempting to escape from the wreck, when
the crew remain on board till low tide. Unless the vessel is in imminent danger of going to pieces
imm'"diBtely the seamen should never take to their boat.
* Irr a course nearly N. fron^ the lighthouses on Plumb Island, and about half a mile distant, across
th^iifnouth of Merrimack River, is the southern extremity of Salisbury Beach, called Salisbury Point.
i'TO>m this point a sand beach extends on the veige of the ocean, without an inlet or interruption of
any consequence, until it reaches Hampton River. This beach is connected with the main land by
a salt marsh of considerable extent, intersected by a variety of small rivulets and creeks, which render
it impossible for a shipwrecked mariner to reach the inhabi'ed parts of Salisbury. Here, too, the
hapless seaman is sometimes destined to suffer the misfortunes of shipwreck, and to reach a deso.
late and inhospitable shore, only to aggravate the horrors of his death. If he can attain the first
and wished for object, in evading the jaws of the angry ocean, he yet finds himself a solitary wanderer
on the coast, without shelter and without sustenance , and in his fruitless search for them, must ine.
vitably perish. As the N. E. storms are generally most fatal to vessels on this part of the coast,
Salisbury Beach is not so often a place of shipwreck as Plumb Island.
+ Badger's Rocks bear N. W. J N. from the lighthouses, distant half a mile, and are covered at
two thhds flood, which you 'eave on your starboard ban Black Rocks bear N. W. from the light,
houses, three quarters ot a mile distant, and are always dry, which you also leave on your starboard
hand. Half-Tide Rocks, (on which is placed a pier.) bear W. by S. | S. from Black Rocks, distant
li mile, and bare at half-tide, w.hich you leave on your larboard hand. North Rocks, (which also
BLUNTS AMERICAiN COAST PILOT.
161
U you ^rl no
V. tlit-re i:, no
)iir wduld run
W. by S. and
1. No vessel,
nor nearer the
several pilots
conuiiand of
,flit.s in ranfi;e,
miiHt liaiil to
A vessel that
^s keep to the
; as to |)revent
(iiroet lor his
air cables and
K. by S. and
int, voii must
iilack Koeks,
le north, called
are always so
the violence of
li,' tliu lights in
4 or 5 fathoms
Dnsists entirely
3 wind iiuohil,
luwth of yrass
1 extent of suit
lliy of remark;
of plumb, from
ducid on low
late, and i^cne.
lich litde or no
ii-h more than
=109, with fami.
hero if) a grove
mariners who
)so, and have
(i leads in a
)out one quar-
St end of the
iiinted white,
henijstercan
possible, as
direct with
wreck, when
)ing to pieces
istant, across
sbury Point,
terruplion of
main land by
■vhich render
fere, too, the
each a deso.
tain the Hrst
y wanderer
m, must ine-
fthe coast,
B covered at
ni the light,
ur starboard
)cks, distant
(which also
anil the llnmp Sands. Across the channel, from the Hump Sant's to IMnrk Rock
C^r'-ek, lie 7 or H piers, on which i>r«' from 7 to '2\ feet water, at low water, wlii( li were
sunk in the year I77'i. and have not since been removed; the mirk to pass betueeh
tlieiii is to briny tlo^ beacon, at tiie west end of the town of Newburypori, (which may
he distinctly seen in clear weatlif*r.) over the south corner oi'llie north mceiiii^-house.
'I'he Hump Sands he ,S. W. from Salisbury I'omt, which makes the channel very nar-
row and dillicult for strangers. When you pass the IJlack Kocks, you miisi haul up \V.
by S. 'r S. which will brim; you in ch;.unel wav, and uood atr'horai:". Ami if it he in
the niylif. or daik weather, when you judt;e yourself about half a mile from i'lack Kock,
vou mav come to with saletv. 1 would recmumciid to all masters, whether they helonu
to New bury port or ntd, to avoid attem|)!ini; that port in a fiale of easterly wind, except
they are well acipiaiuted, and have a sood prospect of licttiiii,' in, as no pilot can get
overthe bar when it blows a c;ale from the eastward. And it /on sho.ild make Cape Ann
liilhts, and briii;,' them to bear S. by K. or the Dry Salvaues to bear S. by E. you may
run witii safety N. by W, or \. ,'; W. distant 10 leagues from Cape Ann to Portsmouth,
Jn rumiini; the above course, yon will make the Isles of Shoals, if it ia any way clear,
from uhich you take a new deparlure : when you pass the said islands, you bling Star
Island, (on which the meetinu-house stands.) to bear .'"'. S. K. and then steer N. N. W,
distant from said island .'} leamics to I'ortsinouth : or jrivi; White Island liijbt a berth of
a mile and a half, brin<:ins; it to bear east, and then run »\. by W. for PortsikVc^uth light.
White Island is the south-westernmost island. There ij averygood harbor iil the Isles
of Shoals, from the wind from tmrt'i-easterly round to southerly, and you n^y lie land-
locked wit any of them ; but if the wind hauls to the S. W. or W. N. ff, you may
run in between Smutty-nose Island, wh t h has a wind-mill on it, and Hog rstand, where
there is water enough for a first rate iiian-of-war, i:nd where you anchor, haV« 12 tath-
oms, muddy bottom. [For djscription of Isles of Shoals see page 159.1 ' -
In goin"^ into Portsmouth, you may bring the lighthouse to be.ir N. N.W. fill you
get vithin Wood Island. 'J'hen you may haul awav iN'. or N. by E. tiliyou pastthe light-
house; you may then haul up VV. N. \V. or X. W". by W. and bring the U^bthouse
point to shut in with Wood island, where you will be safe from all windb, aii4 niay au>
chor in 8 or ') fathoms wafer.
When yon come from the eastward, with the wind at E. or E. S. E. with which wind
you cannot weather away ('ape Ann. and you are to the northward of the Isles of Shoals,
your only shift is to Portsmouth, and you are obliged to run so far to the westward as
to bring said port to bear N. N. W. as, generally, the wind at E. at sea, hauls two or
three points to the northward, which makes it a head wind. [See the PLATE.]
SUjNAIjS for V'KSSHLS. — When in sight, supposed to be bound to Newbury-
port, and the sea is so large on the bar that pilots cannot get out to their assistance.
When a vessel comes into the bav, and cannot come over the bar at higti water, ow-
ing to insulliciency of the tide, a Red Sipiare Kl ig will be hoisted, and a Pendant under
it. and as soon as those signals are seen from the vessel in the bay, she must keep off, and
try some other port.
When the usual signals for vessels are kept up, the vessel must lay off and on at the
bar, keeping to windward, until signals be made for her to coine in; and when it is a
suitable time to come over the bar, a Red Square Flag will be hoisted at half mast ; she
may then coi.ie in, keeping the lights in range.
When a Pendant is hoisted half mast, the vessel may come in, keeping the lights a
little open to the northward. .^^
When a Blue Burgee is hoisted half mast, the vessel may come m, keeping the lights
a little open to the southward.
When a vessel is seen in the bay, and does not come in before night comes on, the
following lights will be made, viz :
For a vessel to keep off, and not to attempt to come in over the bar during the night,
a Lantern will be hoisted to the top of the flag stall'.
When there is a proper time for a vessel to come in over the bar during the night,
two Lanterns will be hoisted, one at the top of the flag staff, and the other half mast
high. The vessel must then lay off and on at the bar, until a light is made in the east-*
eru lighthouse, at a window about eight feet below the lantern. The vessel may then
coma over the bar, keeping the lights in range, and when she gets abreast of the upper
light, there is good anchorage.
The signal for a vessel in distress, is a White Square Flag, with a large black ball in
•the centre, hoisted half mast high. '
' i:
have a pier on them,) bear VV. by S. from Black R')cks, distant IJ mi
low tides, which, you leave on your starbuard hand, between which
channel.
le, and are seen only at very
and Half-Tide Rocks ia the
21
wmm
'y
163
BLUNT 9 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
•ANN^S SQUAM TI.\RR(m IN II'SWrCH MA V.— Tlie maMen of vfMrlji nut
of Newbr -yiiort nIiouIcI generally !)•• !ir(|iiiuiiif(l wiili llic liaihor ol S(|\i:iiii: and tor
their betik fit a plan ul'the harl)or has heen taken Iron) actual siiive), whicii will beof the
greatest iiuportanie, when obli^cl to make a harlior iVoiii Ipswitli Hay, throntih stress
of weather. W lien a vessel at anehnr oli Npwhniyi'ort liar, caiindt >;et info |)ort, or
parts a cable, with the wind at N. K. or K. N. K. il' she ran tarry double reetVd sails,
she may run S. .S. K. 5 lea>;iies, whi(;h course, if made good, will carry her a little to
th'5 eastward of Si|uam Bar; and it the we.ither is so clear as to see Inlf a imle when
you make the land to the eastw ml of .S(|iiaiii, you may run within a cable's length of
the shore; your course is S. .S. W,
Squain Bar bears from Hallowlioat Point (the N. E. point of Cape Ann) from W. S.
W, to S. \V. distant about J leauues. In rmininn liom Hailowboat Point, you must
be careful of Plum') Cove L'silge, wliich shows till near high water, anil bears from
Squaiii I4ght N. N. K. distant 1 r mile. When you have pissed this ledye, you leave
ad^p o<iri|, called llodgkin's ('ove. and a loni; point or neck ol land, called Divis' Neck,
on "piUfc larboard hand. When up with this neck, haul .S. W. or S. W. by W. for
Squam mr.
Haviag made Halibut Point, or Folly Cove Point, bring either of them to bear sou»h
from a c^uarter to hall a mile distant from them, 'fhen run \N . >S. \\ . until you bring
the light to bear S. If you judge there is sudicient water on the bar, you will tiien run
for the light: you will pass between the two buoys. 'The white one is on Harraden's
Rock, whifll'Vou will Ifcave on the larboard hand. The black one is on the nurlh spit of
the bar, wUlcn you will leave on the starboard hanil. Vou m'-.y pass cb)se to iMtlier of
the buo^||^^heu you have passed the black buoy ■,'() or 'M) rods, you may run .S. by W,
half \^j^||||ich will carry you close along by the Moiiument on the fijobst i HocKs,
wbiedyi|||||#lu4t leave uirthe larboard hand, and pass on until abreast of Habson's Point ;
tbtniM^raK' £t, courue will bring you into the harbor. If it is so dark that the buoy
caOn^P^PjlKn, *<6oTitinue your south course until within Go yards of the light, then your
course ifUwl he S S. W. which will carry you abreast of Habson's Point, on your lar-
bOiiru haod, and opposite the Dry Bar Rocks, on your starboard hand, then >S. 8. K. as
bcfbt^ directed. The bar has 6 feet of water at low tide, if you should judge there is
lU>if^ter enough on the bar to carry your vessel over safe, you will come to outside of
tiie bar, and hoiet a signal for assistance, which will come otf if possible ; if not, a Hag
vili be hoisted near the lighthouse, when there is water enough on the bar for a vessel
$Q run in safely.
;,,tSANDy BAY PIER. — If from the southward, in jjassing outside Streightsiuouth
unand, be careful of Avery's Rock, which bears north from the eastern part of Streights-
taputh Island, about jorie third of a mile distant. Run W. by N. until you bring the
^ecting-house tobearS»W. by S., then run in for the Pier Head, in approaching which
,, Keep away a little, and run in until you can see into the Pier Pool ; then lutf and run in.
t^T^ose constantly in the habit of entering said Pool when the wind is eSstwardly, make
^ttbthe headsails and keep up the mainsail, which enables them to have command of the
vessel, and avoid fallins; against the wharf built out from the beach. If from the north-
wards after having passed Andrew's Point, bring the meeting-house to bearS. S. W, and
rtin'for it. This course will carry you clear of Dodge's Ledge, which you will leave ou
the starboard hand.
The passage through Streightsmouth Gap is not safe except at nearly high water, as
thne is but three feet water at low tide, and rocky bottom.
■f ,^ -'-i^-
* ^ttji^h Squam Lighthouse is n wooden building, of octngonal form, about 40 feet high, contain.
, ingi(s,4^xid light, elevated about .50 feet above the surface of thi; water at commin high tides. It is
[ted.white, and may be known by beinir lower thnn any other lighthouse on ihe const of Mis.
husdtts, and its inland situation. It bears from Portsmouth Litfhthouse about S. by W. dis-
iit 10 or 11 leugues. and from Newbuiyport Bar S. S. E. !> leairiies.
tOn the Lobster Rocks is a Monument, lii feet at the base, 17 feet high, built of stone, and is
7 feet out at high water. The lighthou«e, (i:i Wigwam Point bears from the Monument N. E. bv
N. i N. distant one quarter mile ; the Black Buoy placed outside the bar bears N. \ E. distant H
mile ; the White Buoy near tbe Harraden Rocks bears N. l)y E. J E. distant 1^ mile, leaving the
White Buoy on the larboard hand, you may steer direct for the Monument, course S. by W. J W.
The channel abreast of the Monument is about 45 fathoms wide ; the M iniiment poingin is lel't on
the larboard hand, and may be approached at three fathoms distant, and then have two fathoms at
low water; the B'ack Buoy just without the harbor, lies in 10 feet at low wa'er, and bears from the
lightho*!^' N. i W. and is to be left on the starboard haiul ; the White Buoy Pes in 10 feet water off
the N. W. side of Harraden's Rocks, bearing from the lighthou'-e N. by E. ^ E. distant one mile,
which is to be left on the larboard hand. A red buoy is placed otT the Plumb Kock Ledges, in three
fathoms water, and bears fronn Squain Light, N. N. E, distant 1 J nile. On Squam Bar, at low wa-
ter, is about 6 feet. High water, fuU and change of the moon, at 11 o'clock.
-T«-
MPJW"
sfves^eli nut
inni: iiim lor
will be ot'the
hrimuli Hiress
into [tort, or
' rei'lVd saili,
her a little t^>
a mile when
lie's length of
i) tVoni W. S.
int. yon must
III hears trmn
lue, yon leave
I D ivis' Ne( k,
A. by W. lor
to brar sonth
intil yon bring
will then run
1)11 Harraden's
le iiurlh spit of
se to I'ither of
run S. by W.
oi)8t r Koclis,
abson's Point ;
that the buoy
mht, then your
t, on your lar-
len S. S. K. as
judi^e there is
e to outside of
; if not, a Hag
)ar for a vessel
treightsmouth
t of Streights-
yoii bring the
oaeliing which
ulf and run in.
twardly, make
iinmand of the
oin the north-
S. S. W.and
will leave on
high water, as
3t high, contain.
igh tides, h is
e coast of Mas.
S. by W. dis-
of stone, and is
ument N. E. bv
\ E. distant l\
lie, leaving the
S. by VV. 4 VV.
)ingin is lei't on
two fathoms at
d bears from the
10 feet water off
istant one mile,
jedges, in three
Bar, at low wa.
/
m
'f
.1
m^'
( ■
4
M
mi
Jte
i^
[a^
V
. 4
\
' til
i^'
i
, \
;>';>';>>»#* i
--7i-:!rr;
'•^^<55»N..%S^^
I
\
■«.
I* I* 1
iV-^'
1:
I
Jtftk
•",-'^..7:
ksk:
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
163
T^
■"<•■■*..
u =
../
A canal connects this harbor with that of (Houcester. Tt is about 120 rods in length,
30 feet wide, and has for its depth about the whole (low of the tide, which is about 12
feet iu spring tifles, and 8 feet in neap.
If you are bound to Ipswich, your course from Hallnwboat Point to the mouth of the
channel that leads into the harbor, is W. ! N. distant about 8 miles. There are two
beacons erected a small distance to the southward of Clasile Hill, which may be run for,
but as the bar is often removed by storms, it is not safe to run into the harbor unless ac-
quainted. [See PLAN of Annts Sqnam.]
CAPE ANN HAHB(JR. — When you come from the eastward, and make *Cape Ann
Lights in the night, bring them to bear S. W. and run direct for them, which course
will carrv you within the Londoner, and when you pass the said to ks, bring the two lights
in one, at which time they willbenr N. by E. 'i K. and ihen steer S. S. "^ , 5^ W. keeping said
course about one mile, which will carry you clear of Mdk Island, which is very low, and
cannot be seen in a dark night. ^\ hen you judge yourself to the westward of said islatid*
you haul to the westward until you bring tlie lights to bear K. N. E. when you mu«t steer
W. S. W. about five miles, which course will carry you to Eastern PoioJ. When you
pass said point, keep your cour.^e \\ . 8. \\ . until you bring Normaqjjfe \\ oe, w^ch is the
highest land on the north side of the harbor, to bear N. N. \V. theli run N. N. W. till
you shut the lights in, then N. N. K. will carry you safe in.
If you want to go inside the Salvages, keep close aboard Hallowboat Point, .'j^hich has
a tree on the eastern part of it, and steer S. S. E. 'iax Straightmluth island, {i^tbe care-
ful to avoid Avery's Rock, by keeping the lights on the dry point of Strfitg;btmoutli
Island, till you get up close aboard, then haul round the point, and S. S. F. wH|^|^yy.«tt
to the lights. To avoid the Londoner, you must keep the lights clos'» aboai
of the island, on which they stand; the Londoner lies half a mileKi/t', breaks'!
of tide, is quite dry at low water, and bears E. S. E. from the middle ofTbatcl
A long shoal runsolf N. E. half a mile distant from the Londoner. He:w^;)^
ami Thatcher's Island there are 3 fatlioms at low water. From tb«
lowboat Point and Sandy Bay, there lies a lirge spot of flat ground, whicl^^^
will take up a small vessel. Outside the Salvages is very -bold. Hallowboat ^|»ia#^e
from the S;\lvage^ \V. N. VV.2j miles distant^ and the Salvages bear -from tl'^***"'^*"^"
N. E. 3 miles distant.
In sailing from Cape Ann Lights to Cape Ann Harbor, you will finjt open BM»)5**f'(
before you come up with the harbor, which will, when open, bear N. N. W'i m '
must -ivoid. Cape Ann Harbor, lies one mile farther to the westward, aBd|«r)|
bears N. N. E. • ,' v;
We are also requested by a gentleman in whom iinJiUcif confidence may Wj
state that no shoal or ledge lies off the western shore of this harbor, from Kettle!
Ten Pound Island, more than a cable's length; therefore giving the western sh^fji'if^tfi
of 1 7 cable's length, and steering N. E. keeping Ten Pound Island Light open wi8||^
man's Woe until Baker's Island Lights are shut in with Normajp's Woe, then i||j|^
N. E. until Ten Pound Island Light bears from N. to N, N. W. wijtrbrin|{.ll>em'i|^l!
anchorage as any in the harbor, to the eastward of Ten Pound li^gef ij^^ tQi|||^ji|^
water, clear bottom, and good holding ground. ' ' • M^?yi
fTEN POUND ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE.— Vessels bound forCapj^^^p^
and falling into the eastward of the eastern poir.;, on which alighthoiise is erf^tt$4tt''NM _
ing a fixed light, you must give the point a berth of about one mile, aoi w,i^9^ the Ili^,,
on Ten Pound Island bears N. N. E. you are then to the westward or tb^ led jE:e,tbnl «!(•:'
tends off from the point, on which is a Spar Huoy, the head painted rediln 10 feet w»i|
at low water, bearing from Ten Pound Rock E. ^ S. and may stp€r dfrtiSt'JFor th« HiaiSii
this ledge bears from the light on Ten Pound Island S. by W. - W. and'is aJW>iJt h«lf tbir
three quarters of a milcfrom the shore. Running this ' . N. E. course, will c»rrv
between Ten Pound Island and Ten Pound Ledge, which bears from tlie lijght S*.
A\ . about two thirds of a mile distant, has but ('> feet water at 'low spring tides,.{«ndf '
about 10 fathoms diameter. Passing between the island pnd the l*dg«, you wiltbalil^
13 to 15 feet water at low spring tides ; the east end of Ten Pound Island is fool |[raat^
and no safe passage : the south, west, and north sides are bold, and may be apj^Mill
.^\
*if •
* Cape Ann L'gh'hoiiees arc built on Thatcher's Island, which lies about two ntili^fi (ttitt of tlMif'^
south-enst po'nt of Cnre Ann. and forms the northern limits of Maspachiisetts Bav. The lan'MfM.
are e'eva'ed about 91 feet above the level nf tlio 9cn, and contain fixed lights, which may be»r<Bn
7 or 8 'eagiies distant. A ledge lies off Tha'cher's Island, as described under " Dirtctioqs for
Mnrblchend."
tTen Pound Island les in the harbor of Cnpe Ann. There is a lighthouse on cnntaihitig %■
fixed light ; the base of wiuch is about 25 feet above the level of the sea, and the tower 30 feet higtt.
wfiiimii>iiunnt»ii
^tasf^=?f^'
164
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
r*-
•t
within 40tof)0 fathoms at low water; give the west end of the island a berth of 50 to 7(1'
fathoms, and steer in for the inner harbor N. E. you may anchor at any distance from
100 fathoms to three (|uarters of a mile from the isla d ; the light will then bear from S.
to S. W. Anchor in *i, 5, 4, or 3 fathoms spring low tides, muddy bottom; this inner
harbor is safe against all winds that blow.
Bound for Cape Ann Harbor, and falling in to the westward, as far as Half-way Rock,
take care not to bring the light on Ten Pound Island to bear to the eastward of N. E. by
N. until you are a mile or a mile and a half to the eastward of Half-way Rock, to avoid
the S. E. breakers ihat extend from Baker's Island, and which bear from the *lights on
Baker's Island S. E. I S. to 8. S. E. ^ E. and about 2| miles distant. On the S. E.
part of these breakers is placed a spar buoy, painted black, bearing from Half-way Rock
N. E. by E. about one mile distant, and from the lights on Baker's Island, S. S. E. I E.
2f miles. When passed to the eastward of these breakers, you may then bring the
light oh Ten Pound Island to bear N. E. and run for it ; on this course you will leave
Ten Pound Ledge on your starboard hand, and the ledges off Morman's Woe Rock and
Fresh Water .Cove on your larboar<' hand; when up with Ten Pound Island, anchor as
above dbecteiil ^
The outer harbor of Cape Ann is safe and good anchorage against a northerly or east,
wind, where you may anchor inT.j to Gifathoms, low tides, muddy bottom, the lighthouse
bearing atmqt S. E. by E. distant about one mile or a mile and a lialf.
The S. E. harbor is i|lso safe and good anchorage against a northerly, east, and to the
south -east winds : bring the light to bear from N. by E. to N. N. W. ; anchor in ^, 8,
7, or 6 fi
lialfa '
ms, at low spring tides, muddy bottom, distant from the light, one eighth to
er Canal, which connects the harbor with Squam River, passes immediately
_^_._^^^ nartof the town, or what is called the Harbor Parish. It is about ILH) rods
inlw!^^ o feet wide, and has for its depth about the whole flow of the tide. It was ex-
cavaf)[^^4ow waiter mark, spring tides : say in spring tides 12 feet, neap tides 8 feet.
LED#ES OFF TEiN POUND ISLAND, Bearings, (fee, viz.— The ledge that
makes 00^ from the eastern point, bears from the light S. by W. | W. about 2 miles ciis-
.tajjt, aad has from 6 to 10 feet water at low tides : this ledge lies off from the eastern
it (tbotit lialf a mile.
ere is a sirgJo rock that lies about midway between the eastern point and Norman's
, called thi a jund Rock, on which is a spar buoy, in 2' fathoms, low water. The
RIadof this buoy is painted black, and bears from the lighthouse on Ten Pound Island,
SkW.i, 8. distant 1' mile. Round Rock and Ten Pound Ledge bear from each other
§. S. ,#v ? W., and N. N. E. f E. Ten Pound Rock and Cove Ledge bear W . i N.
and E/%S. from each other. Pt.ound Rock and Cove Ledge bear S. by W. and N. by E.
from etph other.
' A 9Qfit buoy is placed on Cove Ledge or Old Field Rocks, in two fathoms at low wa-
ter The top is painted black, aud it bears from the lighthouse W. by S. half a mile
distant.
A spaf buoy, placed on the west end of Dog Bar Ledge, with the top painted white, in
tiro fath»tns at low water, common tides, bearing from the lighthouse on 'J en Pound
island, S. by W.^ W. distant li mile ; Dog Bar and Ten Pound Ledge Buoy bear N.
i K. l^ S. i W. ;'Dog Bar and Round Rock N. W. by W. \ W. and S. E. by E. ^ E. ;
Dog Mr agfiG^ve i;.edge S. by E. | E. and N. by W | W.
The sh^lniiWl^d Round Rock, is a shoal formed by large and small popple stones,
afld atways tIfcBi ialptie uniform depth of water on it, as before mentioned. Dog Bar con-
Aboiitl^ f^l^ms off from Norman Woe Point is a large high rock, called Norman's
Woe RoCkr"oi 20 to 30 fathoms diameter, and about 100 fathoms off this rock, in a
southerly direction, is a ledge that has 7 or 8 feet water on it at low tides. About one
quarter of a mile off froni Fresh-water Cove lies a ledge with only 3 feet water, low
spring tides, bearing from the light W. ^ N. distant 2 miles.
Half-Way Rock and the rock on Ten Pound Island, bear S. W. | W. and N. E. J E.
of each other, distant about 8 or 9 miles.
REMARKS ON CASHE'S LEDGE, by an experienced Navigator.— I took my de-
parttire from Thatcher's Island, which lies two miles to the eastward of Cape Ann. The
island bore from me north, 3 miles distant ; from the bearing, 1 steered E. ^ N. 65 miles,
* Baker's Island Lights bear from the Mnnumenl W. hy S. i S. distant 7 miles : S. point of Kettle
Island, W. ^ S. dstant 4 miles ; Half-way Rock, S. W. '.>y W. 74 miles ; lighthouse^ on Ten Pound
Island, N» J E. distant li mile; the White Buoy on the west end of Dog Bar, W. N. W. half a
mile.
!l
n******
z^j::^
ssr
BLUM' S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
165
With a fair wind, and fell in witli tlie north part of the bnnk, where- Caslie's Ledge is,
about two leafruos to the iiorthwurd of the slioal, in dO fathoms, hard Idai k clav. This
bank lies N. and 8. seven lea};ues, and K. and W. two ieaeurs, and in tlie centre ol'ihe bank
is the shoaiest ground. Its lengtli and breadth is one (luarterola mile. 'J'here are on
it in some parts 10 fathoms, in others only 4', all exeeeding rocky. In the length of a
boat you will have from 10 to 41 tatlioms, and there are 17 fathoms witliin a cable's length
of the shoal, which gradually deejiens as you stand from it. all over (he luuik, to 'JO fath-
oms : at this sounding you are on the edge of the bank. You will, in general, have up-
on the bank oozy and sandy bottom, witli black stones and broken shells, till you ge't into
26 or 30 fathom's ; it then becomes rocky.
The current sets exceeding strong and irregular; in less than an hour it will run all
round the compass. All ships and vessels should endeavor to steer clear of this shoal,
for I am persuaded, that in a fresh gale of wind they mv;st strike ; if not, the sea must
run so as to founder them.
By four days' observation, the weatlier being exceedingly clear, found the sholil to lie
in la't. 43° 04' north, long. 6y° 11' west.
■ Vj
GEORGE'IS SHOAL.S.
A Rc]7ort rdalive fo the surrey nf Gevrffc's Shoals, made in Sloap Orkit^ by il^f^t^ind at
Oic expense, of the Author, amstcd by United States Schooner ScienCt, under aitAorily of
Capl. Isaac Hull, al his request, in 18'21. . ^ ' >
There are, properly, four shoals on George's Bank ; the whole of them incljcte^imp''^
tween latitudes 41^ 34'N. and 41° S.T 30" N. and longitudes G?*" 18' "'V. and 67® 69' ^, "
Between them there is from 15 to 35 fathoms water. ' * <• ^"^ '
The largest and on which is the chief danger, is the most southerly ahfj vrftamtvly, 7^
is somewhat triangular, with a long and narrow spit making out from the S, fi*. angi(^
The S. E. point is in latitude 41° .34' N. and longitude 67° 40' W. The wert prtitft fi '
in lat. 41 ° 4'2' N. and longitude 67° 59' W. The N. E. point is in latitude 41* 48* N.
and longitude 67° 47' W. The eastern side of this shoal, although somewhat irr,fgular«
runs nearly S. S. E. and N. N. W. having on it from three feet to nine fathoms at eoxtf' >
mon low water. It is composed of a great number tf sand spits, very narrow, so that
the width of a narrow vessel will make several fathoms difi'ereiK e in th% depth of ^sfUtt,
The general range of the spits is from S. E. to N. W. A-s there are no rockt^tHiev are *''
consequently liable to change, in some measure, their positions and rangesV'^^Qt^ltfr
eastern edge, even in calm weather, unless it be high or low water, the' tides rult in4|:.f
great rajiidity, and form considerable breakers when setting to the westward, anfl a ll^5fe>"
waterfall when setting to the eastward. This is account d for, by a knowledge s(?we
fact, that directly on tlie edge of this shoal, there is from twelve t<^ siixteen'<athQti)|t^iif .
water, so that the edge forms a species of dam, stopping the force <n the floqwl^l^^-^nd.
over which the ebb falls. • ' . jf'.vA
When there was considerable wind, we observed that the breakers were big}(i^rv4^|g||o. .
the edge, to the westward, than on the edge ; and I ha' no doubt that the watei''^^^4
was still shoaler, and that we should have seen the sand had it not been for the hcstty'S
The breakers were such, unless it were entirely calm, that it was impossible to go 4tni(^
them with boats ; nor was it considered safe to attempt it with the vessels. For,*
the danger of striking on the hard sand spits, the vessels would have been liftVle to be
tilled by the breakers. Even on the eastern edge, and at nearly slack water, th© vessels
were at times nearly covered with them. And it was not thought necessary fo atteodpt it,
as the objects of survey, to ascertain if there was danger on the shoals, and th0,|Mt1fa'^
tions and extent of them, could be accomplished without the risk. ,'
Had not the sea been very smooth, and at high water, we should not have been 9t||1e to
have gotten on where we found three feet reducing it to low water. The prevailing'
wind was to the eastward ; and I have no doubt but that-this place would have been bare
with any continuance of an ofl-shore wind.
I think there are no rocks about the shoals. We had one cast on the S. W. si^
which indicated rocky bottom, in 15 fathoms; but I believe it to have been some sharp
166
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
i
i
«i
i
"
'
■ll
'}l
stone that the lea 1 stincU on, althoiirih I have marked it according to the appearatlre. ofl
the chart.*
TliP cpiitrp of tlip nortliprn slioal is in hititiul(> 41" oT 30" N. and loiisittid? ('>T' 43'
W. It extends east and west al)()Ut (niir iiiUps. 'Die slioalest f)ait havinji; six fatlic.ns,
is very narrow, and eoiiiposed oC han; sand. Hnt there is pot more tlian twelve fathoms
of water for three miles sniitli of the ahove latitude. On t'-e north side, at two cables'
len£;lhs from the shoal, the sloop dio) | ed into ^?, fall.oms. 'J 1." tireakers on ihis.'-hoHl
are very iieavy, and when ihere shorio he a Mili'icicn, sea to endanger a vessel, they may
be seen some miles, and liejird at a very consideralde distatice ; and as the shoalest part
is not more than a ealile's length inside, and no danuer near it, a vessel nii^ht avoid it.
To the eastward of the last mentioned shoal, in latitude 41"^' 51' N and ioni;itude (>7°
26' W. is another small shoal, wiih eiuhr f idioms v. ater, having, however, considerable
breakers. There are but 17 fathoms liir three miles \ of it. Put very near to the east
of it, are 31 fathoms, and fiom -JU to .'',() faihoms to the south and west.
The centre of the east shoal is in latitude 41° 47' N. and lon<:itude 67° 19' W. It is
about two mile^ long from east to west, and has several faihonv water. To the south,
there are but Yl fathoms for two miles. In other directions there are from twenty to
thirty fathonm.
The above described shoals, T am confident, are all which rt on Georce's Bank. Tlieir
f)ositions a^d sizes may be relied on, as well as the places of the soundim; which I have
aid down cnt the chart. They were ascertained by a vast number of ceiesiial observa-
tions, taken'with good and well adjusted instruments on board the two vessels, rikI very
carefully atid faithfully calcu'iated. The rates of tho chronometers were found by a tran-
sit instru
servations
At.
oft
to oniEl
or
t previously to sailina: from Moston, and after our return, and all the ob-
•calculated for the small variation which appeared.
different places, and on diffeient days, we iletermined the set and strength
nd as nearly as possible their rise and fall. The rise of them is from one
^ a half fathoms. They set round the compass every tide, seitini: S. E. near-
ly, atfilll inpon, and running from one to four knots per hour at a mile's distance from
the bre;iiie>9. The mean :*ite, however, is materially varied by the winds: they set
8trons:estat W.S. W. and E. IT E. and which is undoubtedly the strength of the flood
and ebb. From these causes and variety in the tides, arises a principal danger in a))-
proaching the shoals. V/hen under way about the shoals, in a few hours time we found
ourselves drifted far out of our reckonings, and to ascertain our situations, nhen both
vessels were under weigh, we took continued observations for the longitude by tiie chro-
nometers, and at the same time double altitudes for the latittules; which latter were cal-
culated by Brosier's new and certain method. Hy allowing for the sets of tides, as ascer-
tained at anchor, the observations and reckoning agreed very nearly, so that the latitude
and longitude of every sounding placed on the chart may be considered as certain.
Should any vessel fall in with the shoals, a knowledge of the course and strength of the
tides would be of the greatest importance. And they can be calculated for any day and
hour by the preceding facts.
In going from Cape Cod to the Shoals, at 5 leagues from the light, there are 86 fa-
thoms, muddy bottom. The water gradually deepens to 133 fathoms; and then gradu-
ally decreases towards the shoals. In lat. 41° .51' N. and long. 68° 11' W. there are
90" fathoms. In lat. 41 ° 60' N. and long. 68" 3' W. there are 49 f ithoms. santl and gravel,
on the western edge of the bank. The witer then shoals fast. To the northward of the
Hhoal, in lat. 41° 59' N. and long. 67° .j-2' W. on the south side of the north channel,
there are 60 fathoms soft mud. ' In lit. 42° 12' N. and long. 67° .51' W. there are 102
fnthoms. In lat. 42^ 10' N. and long. 67^ 18' W. there is no bottom at 175 fathoms. To
the eastward we did not ascertain the extent of the Bank. In two miles southward of
the S. E. point of the shoals, there are from 20 to 26 fathoms of water, which soundings
continue for at least 20 miles to the southward and westward.
• The bottom on the Bank, so far as we ascertained it, is of such a narrow character,
that it is difficult for a vessel to ascertain her situation by it. We often found a great
variety bf soundings in a very short distance; such as sands of various colors, and dif-
ferently mixed, coars-e and fine, gravel pebbles of various colors, stones, sponge, and shells.
Of all these, except sand, I saved a number of specimens, with marks to note the places
from whence they were taken. f
Notwithstanding this variety, some genera! character of the soundings may be useful.
|Po the westward of the shoals, and at some distance from them, the bottom is coarse
s— .
»Thi8 Chart is published by E. & G. W, BLUNT.
tit may be worthy of remark, that at one cn't of the lead, on examining the arming, I found
one third black sand, one third white, and one third green shells, in as distinct dimensions as they
could have been drawn.
J
lat.
VV
'aratire, oft
1(1? r.7" 4 3'
X fatlic.iis,
ve I'athoms
tun cables'
II iliisf-lidal
1, they mny
iu;i!('st part
It avdid it.
mitiule C7°
onsidorable
• to the east
) \V. It is
) the pouth,
n twenty to
inl<. Their
'liith I have
ial ob.serva-
Os, and very
td l)y a tran-
I all the ob-
ind strength
is from one
J S. K. near-
islance from
ds: they set
of the flood
aniier in ap-
ne we found
, when both
by the chro-
ter were eal-
les, as aseer-
the latiiiide
1 as certain,
eniith of the
any day r.iid
re are 86 fa-
ihen pradu-
IV. there are
Ifl and cravel,
Ihward of the
Irth channel,
here are 102
ithonis. To
louthward of
Hi soundings
|w character,
nind a great
kors, and dif-
|c, and shells.
|te the places
w be useful,
loin is coarse
jming, I found
Isions as they
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
167
Siind and gravel of ail colors; to the N. W. a mixture of white, black, and yellow sand ;
to thr N. back an I white. suiJ; to the N. i^. chielly gravel a.id pebbles; to the E. fine
white and yellow sand, and in lat. 41*^ 57' N. and long tiH^ 40' W. some white moss: to
the 8. E. line white and yellow sand.
As the slioaW are approached, in whatever direction, the soundings become coarse, and
are tVequently mixed with shells of dlll'ereiit kinds. Near the shoal much of the bot-
tom is pebbles; and to the east of tlie largest and most dangerous shoal, there are stones
of the size of hen's eggs, with moss and sponge on some of them. Near the S. E. point
is from 15 to ,'0 fathoms ; a prev;<dm'i cliaracter of the soiindiiigs is green shells, and
chielly of the species usually called seaeggs. If a vessel be far enough south to avoid
danger, slif! will have no shells. The ipi liity of the souiiirmg'4, as far as we were able to
survey the bank, will be best understood from the chart, where they have been carefully
rated.
The time and weather jirevented making a complete survey of all parts of the Bank;
and although we ascertained the liouiidarips of it t(j the westward and northward, I have
not delineated it on the chart, being imwdling to borrow any tiling from d)u|lts which dis-
agree so essentially, and wiiiih we Ibun.l very incorrect in the mat(||}|al points. Of the
siioals th-iuiselves, 1 do not believe a more perfect survey can be made, unless in a calm
tiina, the m lin sho il could be penetrated. This, however, does not .seein to be au object,
as no vessel would be safe in atteiiiptiiig to pass over it. ,v -
The reports that rocks have bi'eii seen on the .Shoals, are undoubtedly incorrect.
Had there been any there, we could not have failed of disroveriiig tiiem. At the west
part of the bank, in strong tide rips, we saw large cjuantities of kelp and sea>weed, whirb,
at a distance, had the appearance of rocks. But on sounding we found goodwater, and
regular and clear bottom. f . ,
It will be seen by the bottom that the holding ground is not good. But tb^tetM||'ann-
ployed in the survey, by having a lon'i scope of cable, rode out a cousH^MjImttirJich' of
wind for 'Ji hours, on the east side of the main shoal, and to windward oiiti^ '7 At this
time the sea broke very high in 10 fathoms water.
NoTK. — In comini: from the southward lor (ieorge's Bank, you will get sonodings in
lat. 40° 4' N. if on the S. S. W. i)artof the bank. Should you not get sonndipes in the
lat. of 40*^ 30' N. you may be certain you are to the eastward of the shoal, wneQ jpa
must direct your course accordingly to clear it, when your first soundings will be in fwm
75 to 60 fathoms. When steering to the northward, you will shoalen your water grad-
ually to i20 fathoms, when yoti will be in latitude 41° 20' N. which depth of water ybu
will have 10 or li leagues distant, either east or west.
Soundings from (ieorge's Bank continue W. bv S. until you are nearly abreast of the
east of Long Island, thea southward to Cape Hatteras.
SALEM H.\RB<.)R. — Vessels inward bound, and falling in with Cape Ann, must ob-
serve the following directions, viz. — When abreast of Cape Ann Lights, bearing N. N.
W. about two miles distant, steer W. S. W. about three leagues, which will carry them
up with the eastern point of Cape Ann, then steer VV. by S. i S. 7i miles, which will
carry them up with the lights on *Baker's Island.
Ships bound to Salem, falling to the southward and running for the lights, liust, when
they have made them, keep the northern or lower light open to the eastward of thesouth-
. em light, and run for them, which will carry them to the eastward, and clear of the south
breukerof Baker's Island, which bears from the lights, S. E. by S. '2i miles distant, and
is very dangerous.
Vessels bound to Salem, having made the lights with a westerly wind, in beating up,
must not stand to the southward or westward, further than to shut one light in with the
.other, on account of the south breaker, nor to the northward, further than to- bring the
lights to hear W. by .S. 7 S. on account of Gale's Ledge, which bears from the lights N.
E. by E. J E. 1^ mile distant, having but 4 feet water at low tides.
In going into Salem by the com iion or ship channel, between Baker's Islai^ and
t Misery Island, being up with Baker's Island, you may pass within lOiJ fathoms ontand
*Baker's Island lies on the south side of the principal entrance of Sn'em Harbor, is about a third
of a mile in leng'h, from north to south, bearing east from Fort Pickering, distant about 5 miles east,
from the town of SnVn. There are now two spparaic lighihnuses on Baker's Island, the baaesof
whiuh are about 45 feet abtve the levo' of the sea. 0 le is 12 feet, and the other 81 J feethigh,and
bear from each o'her N. W. ^ VV. and S. E, ^ K, Tiie southern light is the highest, and may b^
seen from 6^ to 7 leagues. The water is deep near the island, but there is no convenient landing-
place. The north and east sides are high and rocky. There is a small channel bet^^een the ajQittb
rocks and the dry breakers, but it is safe only to those who are acquainted with it.
t Misery Island lies from Baker's Island about one mile, is joined by a bar to Little Misery, 1
makes the north side of the channel opposite Baker's Island. Misery Ledge has eight feet ^tt
%j|
^"1^
1G8
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
•i^M
■T'
'MU
Bp
k^
■%
steer W. hy N. Cor the ♦llasto; thiH coiirxe will carry you clear of fllardy's Rocks,
leaviiij{ them to the .southwHid, and will leave JHowditcli's Led^e to the iioilhward. If
you are in the icid-passajic, hulweeu IJakr-r'H Island and tin- iMi.sery, you may steer W.
N. W. till you have passed iJowditch's Ledu;e, or till you g >t §Cat island open to the
westward ol ||Kai,'le Island, then liaul up lo*- the Haste. Any stranger may there anchor
in safety, in about f) fathoms of water, good anchorage ; hut if you cljoose to proceed
into Salem Harhor, you must steer about west for tlie Haste, whuli you will leave on
your larboard hand, about half a mde distant, then steer S. VV. i)y W. whit h will carry
you into Salem llari)or, but you must observe, that there is a lcdf;e runs o(f from the N.
E. end of H W inter Island, and that Abbot's Rock lies abreast of u ; to avoid which you
uju»t keep above a quarter ol a mile frouk the shore. Abbot's Rock > found by br-n^-
ing Castle Hdl and tiouse into the cove north of Kort I'ickerini;, and Heverly Meetini;-
hou8e well in with Junii)er I'oint (or S. K. point of Salem Neck.) Abbots Rock has
seven feet at common ebb. 'J'he meanof coiiMuon tides is 1-2 feet. In keeping oil' shore,
to avoid Abbott's Rock, you must not go too far olf, for fear of the A(|ua V ii.-e, which
are sunken rofks, lying K. S. K. from Fort Pickering, distant nearly half a mile.
U hen <K>nung from the southward, if you are near Cat island, you may pass to the
eastward of ve-stward of it; if you are to the eastward, you must give a berth of a quar-
ter of a mile, and steer N. by VV. } W. or N. i\. VV. leaving the '**Rrimt)les and Kaijle
Island to tht^starboard, and fjCouay Islanil Ijcd'je to the larboard — that course will car-
ry you clear^f Engle Island Bar ; continue upon the same course till you have passed
the Haste, at^ get jnto common ship channel, or you may continue the same course till
you get UR(|«^ the north .shore, where there is good aiwhorage.
If you apto the wectward of Cat Island, you may p.iss in the middle channel between
tbnt litlap^nd tt'Marhlehead Rock, and steer over north for the ship channel, leaving
§§(Jni|'^»ck ^od Coney Island to the westward. After passing the Haste, and enter-
ing tlwlwP^llM|iiDel, you may proceed as before directed.
Bt low spring' tidwv, and bears from the li^-iithnupc N. W. by W. ^ W. J^ mile distant. Misery
Island or OtB«| Misery, is 174 rods in Icnuth from N. to S. und 'J(> rodn in lueadtli. Little Mi.ser.'
• ifl 40 rods in lailgth, with its most western point projecting into the chnnnpl. South part of Little
Misery Isl^nrt tears from the lights N. W. i N. three (|uurters of u mile dit-tuiit.
• Tfce Esite Rock is a broken rock above water, lyinj? near ilie channel, bcurint,' from Baker's
Island Lights, W. ^ N. distant 2^ miles, and 1^ mile from Salem Ruck.
t Hardy's Rocks (on which a beacon is erecieii) bear VV. i N. from Baker's Island Lights, dis-
tant five eighths of a mile. They are covered at liitli water, an;' are daiijrr;ous. At half tide they
appear with 7 feet on them at low water. Rising States Ledge bearf V»'. } N. from diem, 150 fath.
oms distant.
t Bowditf.'Vs Ledge, on the east end of which a blaek spar buoy is placed, in 2^ fathoms, bears
from Baker's Island Ligbthouee W. N. W. 1^ mile distant, and is .«pen at low spring tides.
§^ Cat Island in situated about S. W. by W. from Baker's Island, 2 miles distant, and about ]\
Oiiie from Morbleheud Neck ; and ranges from Baker's Islp.nd just clear of MarHlehead Neck. On
the N. W. end is a high beach, directly opposite the point jf Miirblehead, called Peach's Point. The
shore is irregular a;id rocky. Beyond, and in a hne with the island, are two other her.ds, of nearly
. Uiesame projection ; Rnd on the southern side are three high rocks, but not so large as the former.
Two of them ar» connected with the ir'and by bars of sand, out of water at the ebb ; the otlierstands
boldly up within these two, but more southerly. The Marblehead Marine Society has erected on
'€<0t Island Rock a spar, 40 feet high, to the top of which is ^innexcd a cask of about 130 gallons
Mgeasure, "which is seen at sea 20 to 30 feet above the buid. A black spar buoy lies otf the S. E.
• etidr bearing from the lights S. E. ^ S. to S. S. E. i E. 2^ miles distant.
H Eagle Island is about 1| mile from Peach's Point, and bears from the lighthouse? VV. by S. J
i9'(fotant IJ mile. A bar runs off from the western point of this island in a N. W. direction, half
-8 mile distant, and has a red spar buoy on the end of it. It may be avoided by keeping Grtij's
j Rocks to the southward of Marblehead Fort.
T Winter Island lies on the north Je of the entrance of Saleni Harbor, about half a mile in
length ; the highest part is on the south of the island, opposite a point of rocks on the neck (which is
a point of land running north-easterly from the town, about one mile.) It has a store and a wharf
on the southern end, at the entrance of Cat Gove. On the eastern point stands Fort Pickering.
*• The Brimbles bear S. W. by W. from the lighthouse, distnnt 1 J mile, S. S. E, from Eagle Isl.
and, nearly half a inile distant. They are sunken rocks, bare a: 'ow water : near to it is a spur buoy
painted red. It corijes out of water ai half ebb.
ttConey Island is a small island that lies near the mouth of Salem Harbor : it bears from Marble.
head Point, N. E. one mile distant ; from Fort Pickering, on Winter Island, E. i S. two miles dis.
tant.t and from Baker's Island Light, W. J S. 2J miles distant.
M^arbleliiBBd Rock bears S. VV. from the western part of Cat Island, distant three fourths of a
niihir' It it.aiboy«5 water, and may be approached on either side, very near, with safety.
' . SCTW^y^s^^ock bears N. W. from Cat Island, distant three quarters of a mile, W. by S. J S. from
^iJNr^f^thousc, distant 2| mil'js, is high out of water, and may be approached with safety.
y's RockB,
hward. If
ly steer W.
u|i('ii to tlie
ifie anclidr
to proceed
/ill leiivu uii
h will carry
rom the iN.
I wliicli you
id by briig-
ly Meeting-
's Rock lias
i(/ oH' shore,
V iiie, which
mile-
pass to the
h of a quar-
s and Kagle
.irae will car-
have passed
le course till
inel between
iinel, leaving
e, and euter-
itant. Misery
Little Miscrr
1 part oi Littlt'
from Baker's
d Lights, (lis.
Imlf tide they
hein, laUfath.
fathoms, bears
des.
and about IJ
d Neck. On
Point. The
da, of nearly
as the forniei.
le otherstanda
as erected on
ut 130 gallons
otf" the S. E.
tes W. by S. i
lireciion, half
eeping Gray's
■ilf a mile in
uck (which is
e and a wharf
'ickering.
rom Eagle Isl.
is a spur buoy
. from Marble.
wo miles dis.
e fourths of a
ly S. i S. from
fety.
BLUM S AMERICAN COAST TILOT.
1G9
lias very shoal water on the
'i'here is f,M)od water at the
Tf it. coiniii" froir the soutliwaid and eastward, yon should find yourself near 'Half-
wav Hod;, yon may brinn it to hear S. K. and sieer N. W. for the Haste, pasHini; near
to f Satan or lilack Kock, leaviii<{ it on the !arl)oard hand, and the Hriinides and Ka^le
Island on tin starboard ; contintie fhis course, and you will leave the Haste on the lar-
board hand, enter the (^oiiniioii ship chaiuiel, and proceed as above.
'LMiere are several other cliainicls forenterini; Salem Harbor, l)Ut they ought not to be
attempted withoti. a pilot.
JHIVKKLV AND MANCIIRSTER.— To enter P.everly Harbor, follow the direc-
tions for Salem Harbor, till you briii;,' the Haste to bear K. S. K. and run W. N. W.
ai)out two miles, aiifl you reacli Heverly IJar, which is a spot of sand riinniiifi; out from
the southern or Salem si'le of the entrance, and has commonly a beacon upon the head
of it, above a fpiarter of a mile from the shore. The bar
eastern or outward sidi; near it, but i;ood anchcrape within.
head of the bar. Having passed the bar, there is a sandy point from Beverly, on the
northern side of the entraiice, and beyond this point are the Lobster Rocks, which bear
from the head of the bar \V. a little .S. and not half a mile distant, and they are above
water at half tide. To avoid this point, after havinsj well cleared the bar, you will steer
towards Ram-horn Kock, which has also commonly a beacon, and is to be seen at half
tide, bearing S. W. by S. from the head of the bar, one eijilith of a mile distant. There
are several fathoms of water within a vessel's lencth of Ram-horn Rock. OiviDg tins
;■ jn;ood Ix'rtli, you then dear the sandy [loiiit, and steer for the Lobster Rock Beacon,
bea''igf>'om Ram-horn Mcacon N. \V. by W. distant about one quarter of a mile.
Giving Uu., a ijood btuih, you are then opposite to the wharves, and may anchor in deep
water, in a very safe and excellent harbor.
To enter .Manchester Harbor, you must bring the southern light on Baker's Island to
bear S. i K. and run .\. one mile distant, where you may anchor on good bottoJRn^
Eastern I'oiiU bears from Raker's Island Light's E. by N. ^ N. 7f miles cM8t<l^^^lilillf-
way Rock bears from the lights S. ] E. -J miles distant, tfardy's Rocks, l^ld^Oiii the
lights W. i N distant five eighths of a mile '^.
M.VRRLEllEAU. — \'essels inward bouiul, and falling in with the lights Ott'-Thatch-
er's Island, may observe the following directions, viz. Thatcher's Island Leidge bnn from
tlie body o.f the island from E. .S. E. to S. .S. E. extending about two miles froin the is- ■
land. After getting the west light to bear N. k W. you are to the westward of the ledge :
then haul to the N. W. to bring the lights to bear N. E. by E. and steer S, W. by W. fori
tlie eastern point, which is about 7A miles distant from Thatcher's Island. Then yoi^r
course is VV. by S. distant 7\ miles, for the lights on Baker's Island. '
Vessels bound to Alarblehead, and falling to the southward, and running for th* ■
lights, after making them must keep the north and lower one open to the eastward of
the southern light, and run for them, which will carry them to the eastward and clear
of the south breakers off Baker's Island, which bear from the lights from S. E. ^ S.
to S. S. E. ^ E. distant two miles and one quarter.
il.iviiig made the lights with a westerly wind, and beating, when within two and a half
miles of them, you must not stand to the southward and westward so far as to shut the
north light up with the south light, on account of the south breakers, ntfr to thenorth'-r
ward further than to bring the lights to bear W. by S. ^ S. on accoutit of GaleV
Ledge, which bears from the lights N. E. by E. I E. distant 1^ mile. Drawing naH*
to the lights, take care of a ledge, called the Whale's Back, which bears from tEs
ligh's N. by E. distant four fifllis of a mile, and comes out of water at quarter ebb«
'r going into Marblehead, and being up with the lights, give the north point of Bale's
Is cinu a berth of one quarter of a mile or less. Having the lights one in with the othlsr,
y.'^. are up with the ])oint. When the south light is open with the north light, you,
Have then passed the point (leaving the Misery Island on your starboard hand, which. >
bears from the lights N. W. i N. three fourths of a mile.) Then steer S. W. by S.-^>
or S. S. W. until you bring the south light to bear N. E. by E. ^ E. ; then steer S. '^
W. by W. ^ W. distant 3 miles, for ]Marblehead Harbor. You will leave Hardy's
Rocks, Eagle Island, and fxray's Rock, on the starboard hand; Pope's Head, (which is
a large high rock, bearing S. VV. by W. from the lights, two thirds of a mile distant,)
Brimbles, and north point of Cat Island, on the larboard hand. The Brimbles bear from
* Half-way Rock is about 180 feet in diainrter, 40 feet high, and bold to ; lying about halfway
between Boston and Thatcher's Ishind Lighthouses, on which a pyrnmidical monument has been
erected, the stone work of which is 15 feet high, wi;h a hat^e of 10 feet ; above the stone work is a
spindle 15 feet high, on which is a copper ball 2 feet in diameter.
t Satan, or Black Rock, is above wiitcr, steep to, and.beari" S. W. by S. from Baker's Island, diB«
tant one and two thirds mile, and from Half-way Rock, N. W. by W. \ W. trmile and one sixth.
22
170
BI.UNT 8 AMERICAN TOAST PII.OT.
|V-,
EaglP Tdland S. S. E. \ K. distant half ii niili*; and (Jray's Rock from thn nortli point
of Cat Island, N. W. Iiy W. .seven einliths of a mile.
Kallini; in with the soiiih pi)int of Maker's iHlanil, and it hlowinj; hartWroin the east
ward, if you (rannot ivoid it, you may |)asK the point hy keeping il widl on hoard, say at
the distance of from •.'!) to ,")() fathom:* from the shore, where yon will have from 4 to 5
fathoms water. When up with the S. \V. point, steer W. S. \V. whi<h will carry you
between the north Cooselierry Island (wHiich lieais S. W. .', S. (rom the liyhls. di/tanl
two thirils of a mile) and I'ope's Head, leaving the former on your larlioard hand, and
Pope's Head on your itarlioanl hand, helween which you will have from .i,', to .'j fathoms
of water. As «oon ah you have passed I'ope's Head, liaiil to the northvvard, utiiil the
Bt)uthhght bears N. .-;. by K. l E., then steer S. W. by W. .', \V. lor iMarlMclieail
Harbor.
The somb "- ■•■ of the Harbor of Marblehead is bold, and may be approached with
•afety with » on the |ioiiii of the neck at the .S. E. side of the harbor, bearinj^
from N. N. ^V. <o VV. by N. until you are within half a mile of it; then brini; the
light to bear W. by S. and run for it until within two cables' lengths ; then steer N. W.
by W. until the lighthouse bears S. .S. W . ; ih,.,, steer S. W. and anchor with the li^ht
bearing tirom E. by S. to N. E. by K. from a (jiiarter to a half a mile distant, in b fath-
oms, good holding ground and clear bottom, secure from all but easterly gales. The
following are the bearings from the lighthouse :
MaAlehead Rock S. E. by E. ^
Half-way Rock E. by S. . . .
Chi Island Rock E. [ N
Biker's Island Light N. E. by E.
'irdy's Rocks ^. N. E
te Island N. E. \ N..
E.
• distant
%y'-^ Rock N. E. by E. i E
PVaclie'i Point
Fort Head
N.
N.
•'\
by W. ^ W.
4
oi
*"■?
8
1
1
mile,
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
The above are by compass.
1. Vessels coming from the eastward, and running for Half-way Rock, whitih is a hi^h
>"■ bold rock of about 30 fathoms diameter, lying S. \ E. from Baker's Island lights, dis-
tant 2 miles, (and described jn page 169,) must not bring the rock to bear to the south-
ward ot W. S. W. to avoid the south breaker, which bears from Half-way Kock N. E.
4 E. distant one mile. Being up with' Half-way Rock, and bound into iMarblehead,
bring the rock to bear E. by S. | S. and steer W. by N. .] N. for Fort Head, distant .'{
^ miles, leaving Cat Island on the starboard hand, which bears from Half-way Kock \V.
N. W. distant Ijf mile, and *Marblehead Rock on the larboard hand, which bears fiom
Half-way Rock W. J N. distant 2 miles. Black Rock bears from Half-way Rock N,
/ W. by W. distant 1^ mile. Cat Island Rock and Point Neck bear east and west of each
other, distant about one mile.
Vessels being up in Boston Bay, may, by bringing Boston Light to bear S. S. AV.
run N. N. E. for Marblehead Rock : they are distant from each other about 12 miles.
^j,Half-way Rock and Boston Light bear fromeach otherS. W. and N. E. distant 15 <iiiles.
Hardy's Rocks are coveried at high water, and may be seen at quarter ebb. Whale's
'^acft is covered at high water, and may be seen at quarter ebb. Gale's Rocks have but
4 » 4 foet water at low tides, and bear N. E. by E. \ V.. from the lights, distant 1^' mile.
^s;^ t>The south breakers, off Baker's Island, are always covered. The Brimbles are covered
■^i high water, apd are seen at half tide. Black Rock is always out of water, but low.
Cat Island Rock, Half-way Rock, Marblehead Rock, Gray's Rock, and Pope's Head,
are large, and high above water. Half-way Rock is very bold all round it. Eagle Isl-
and is bold only 6n the south and east ; from the N. E. part of it, quite to Hardy's Rocks,
is very shoal water, and iio passage for ships.
z?-.
^.
y* On Marblehead Rock is erected a monument, painted white at the bottom and black at the
top, bciAg about 8 feet in the base, and 15 in height. Strangers will observe that the course from
Half-way Rock to Marblehead Fort is W. by N i N. 3 miles distant, leaving the beacon which is
placed on Cat Island Rock on the starboard hand, and the monument on the larboard hand ; the
monument bears from the beacon W. by S. | S. distant seven eighths of a mile.
-"-'-'^- — ^'"—
BLUMS AMKRrCAN TOAHT I'M.OT.
171
i« north point
I'rom tlif tMst
II l>()iiiil, Miiy III
v«! iVoin 4 to 5
will nirry >on
litjlus, (li/tiinl
lanl liiiiiil, and
l.<, til f) ratliiiiiiH
ward, until tlic
[)t Murl'iulieail
ppidaclu'il with
larlior, hearing
tlini hrini; tiit;
cti Mtper N. W.
r with till' linht
slant, in () iath-
•ly gales. The
I
2-'
s
3
J
1
1
1
a
mile,
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
which is a high
piland lights, dis-
bar to the south-
ay Kork N. E.
ito Marblehead,
Head, distant :?
f-way Kock W.
hi eh bears fioni
ll-way Rock N.
and west of each
, bear S. S. W.
about 12 miles,
distant lo miles,
r ebb. Wl.ale's
Rocks have but
distant Ij mile,
bles are covered
water, but low.
d Pope's Head,
I it. Eagle Isl-
Hardy's Rocks,
and black at the
Lt the course from
\c beacon wliiub is
irboard hand ; the
Beurinifs and Dislancen of Uie I'riuniml Islands, Hacks, i^v. in the vicinity of Salem,
from liaKer'n Island Lights.
'Ilif lights bear from -iich other N. W. \ W. and S. E. \ K. 40 feet distant.
Eastern point of (,'ape Ann i)ears E. by N. J N 7^ uiilea diltant.
Gale's jjcdge, which has a whitt- spar bu«»y on the 8.
VV. »'n(i,and on which are ;j ft-et water, low tide. .N. E. bv E. J EI...1J
House Island, at the mouth of Manchestur I larbor. . N. N. V. 1
^Saube'>* Jjcdge in Manchester N.
East part of Whale's IJack ry^
Pilgrim's l^edge (lU feet low common tides)
(ireat Misery N'
IMi-ery Ijedge (has H feel at low tides) N.
South part of Ijiltle Misery N.
Wlialr's iiack, (comes out at two thirds ebb) N.
Bowditch's I, edge W.
North part of Hardy's Rocks W.
North part of Haste Rock W.
South part of ( 'oney Island W.
Nagus Head, or Marblehead shore W.
(Jray's Koek W.
North part of Eagle Island ,W.
South part of Marblehead Neck S. W. hy,\
North part of Cat Island S. W. b/W.
Middle of I'ope's Head S^W. byV
North part of Western Gooseberry ji. "MT* l!^- * ^ in. ''^.
South Gooseberry S,,/5CW: A W..
Satan or Miack Rock .S. W. by S. . .
Eastern (iooscberry S. S. W. \ W. . . ,
ilalf-wav Kock S. i E 2"
South B'reakers of Baker's Island , .-3. E. b^ S 8f
Arc her's Rock, on which is a spar buoy, painted red, «
(has 7 feet at low tides) S. W. Ijjf W. ^ W. 8J • ^; 4d,
Outer Breakers, known generally by the name of O.ute^, Middle, and'Ioitff']
this is a very extensive and dangerous shoal, extending from Searl's ^tocks, iltji'^l
direction, about two miles, and in a westerly direction (tbout three quarters of « t»llifci'^«|
bearing from the lights S. E. }, S. to S. S. E. ^ E.'two and a quarter miles; t<i-plM(i-^^'
the eastward of this dangerous" shc^l, have the northern or low light a little opctt tifl£i^^
eastward of the high light. ' ,• ^»
Searl's Rocks, a small part corner out of water at low spritfpfides, and beara flff^tiiw^;^
south light S. E. three eighths of a mile distant, and front; the S. £.,point8 of 0d«|i|^'l£
Island, S. E. distant a small one fourth of a mile. There is.a good^hMinel beti
island and Searl's Rocks, by keeping the island best oh bi»ard, say at the distail
to 40 fathoms ; in tliis channel is ti to 5 fathoms water, at lo# common tides. '
BOSTON HARBOR.— From *Cape Ann to Boston Lighthousit'th'e com
W. i S. distant 8j leagues. After making the light, ^itli the wind iw\ tott '
it to' bear W. by N. or W. N. W. and then run for it, till you come witi^ jjlt.v
lengths of it. If the weather is bad, and you cannot get a pilot from the lightlio^to^
tcr running abreast of it so as to bring it to bear N. by E. you may jriiaAi^. By S. ^fl^
until the light on fLong Island Head bears N. W. by N.; tbenateerN, W'vi9lS<^|
mile, or until the old light is hid by George's Island, where you may ancl^or i ^ ~ ■*
5 fathoms \v Si fety in Nantasket Road.
.1 iiiitm^i,
* Wc must here remark the necessity of every commander's making himself ncquain^ld
the different lighthouses on the American coast, and on first appearance know At once ^$ir
tion, as an error may be attended with disastrous consequences, which was the caatf in Jlo^/if. J
when a fine brig of 314 tons was lost, with one of her officers and a seaman, by mistMuij^'fi;
Light for Boston Light. The Captain says, "he made Cape Ann Light, bearing N. 8.6f d.
distant, on Tuesday, at 6 o'clock, P. M. run W., made Salem lighto, soon after run S. W., Bli
light ahcadj supposed Boston, thinking Boston a standing light, continued the course tti^ V
about 6 miles, then run southerly until the light bore W. by N., then run W. until sh&tj^Klt'
the light."
+ Long Island Light is elevated on a tower 73 feet, with a lantern 7 feet higli, tifinlgtt flNtn^
ton light W. i N. It is lighted with ten patent lamps, and you leave it on ]r^B|lr liiKliTOthlwAr
r*.'
172
ni.UtVT 8 AMERICAN COAST I'lI.OT.
Thr iiiiiin I'litriinrr 'Mil) lloHlun II;iih<ir lifl* iM-iwriui •Ijiiilitlioiisr ImI.ukI on tlic iinrlli
b'kIi', iiiiil I'oiiit Alilrrton on ttii> xouth, (of)' wliich lii'H a nImdiI, ;im ilcNiiiht'il in tin'
I'LA'I'K, to wliicli iIk- itMih-r it rrlfrrnl.)
To work into Itnsion lt;iy, you \u,iy scinil to tlir snutliwuril till you liritiK (tir lit;lit to
bear W. N. W. iuid to fh«' nnrtliwanl till \<iii hriiiu it to hear U'. S. \\'. tiilyoiuotni' wiiL-
in one luaKiK* ol the liulit ; tlicn you luu^l not siuiid to the northwani any tartlur tlian to
brin)< it to bear \V. by N. and to the nontliward to bring it to bear W. N. W. Vou tnav
nnclior in tlie bay with safety if the wind is oil' i«hore. It you tall to the .sonthwaril el'
BuNton Harbor, In; earclnl to avoid CohatHet Koclix, which lie aliove water Nurrie distance
from the land, nay tVoin I ', to -J miles; tlii' ouier |) ut uf whicii, called .Mirml's iktirk, hus
a black buuy on it, that lies in 5 fathoms water, whu h yon leave on your larboard hanil.
This rock conies out of water at low connnon tides, and bears from Mostnii lighthouse S.
E. 4 E. 9 mileH. Your course iVoni this buoy to the lii;htliou<ie is N. W, by W. distant
3 leagues. N. N. K. from iMinoi's, Innr miles distant, lies a led^e ol rocl.s, w hi( h is small
and bold; near it you have 'Jll lathoms. In rnnmn<; the aboM' course and disiariee, you
will past a white buoy which lies in 1 lathoms water, that is on the N. K. part ol liarilen'.>i
RockH, and bears S. E. j S. from the lighthouse, distant 1 ', league, whieh rockr may be
seen two lionrs before low water, tliat yon also leave on your larboard hand. There is
another buov on your larboard hand, which is red, that lies in ;i lalhoins ,\ater on j Point
Alderton. When in the middle ol the I I.iuhihousc ehani»el, steer W. by N. one mile
distant, to tl^e beacon on the •'^pit, which yon may run within one (jiiarter of a cable's
Icogth of, letiving it on your tttarbonrd hand, opposite to which lies a black buoy in 'J fath-
oms water, An George's Island Rocks. IJetween the ri;:hthoiise and (leorue's Island lies
a rock, having a black buoy on it, called the Centiirion, in iiiid-( hannel, with 11 feet wa-
ter on it, louring fron he lighthouse W. S. \V. ^'l)llr coiiise I'niin this to (Jallop's Island
Poini,||K. W. by N. half a mile distant. From tlieme throuj^h the Narrows, by Nick's
Mate^JfiJU course is N. N. W.'half a mile distant. Nick's .Mate has a inoniitnent <in it,
and Tntt(Kl»*J|eft on your larboard hand, one cable's length distant, ^mil then steer W. by
N. foif Cattii Island, distant 4 miles. In rmining W. by N. from Nick's .Mate, you will
first leave twUtospar buoy on the Lower iMiilille, on your starboard hand, distant 'i
tnileafrom Ni^ • Mate; then, three quarters of a mib- distant, you will see a white buoy,
which is onthe Castle Rocks, in two fathoms, whieh you leave on your larboard haiiil.
When gblftist of the Castle, steer N. N. W. one (jiiarter of a mile, to clear the (pper
Middle OJ'puid, which has a black buoy on it in 'J fathoms water, that you leave on yotr
Isfboard hud ; if the buoy should be removed, run N. N. W. till you briii;; the two norlli-
ernmost steeples in Boston a handspike's length open, then steer N. W. by W. 2^ miles,
which will carry you opposite the town.
Broad Souna, which is the north entrance of Boston harbor, is not a »>roper channel
for large vessels; but those who frequent it, will fidlow the directions here given : when
up'witn the Graves, which are a parcel of dry rocks tha; appear white, you must leave
themonyour larboard hai^d, two cabJes' lengths distant, then bring them to bear S. E. and
run S. W. by W. 4 miles, when you will be up witli Long Island light, which is elevated
00 a tower 20 feet, -on which is a lantern 7 feet high, bearing from the old liglithouse, W.
4 N. It is lighted with l(f patent lamps. You leave it on your larboard hand.
Ih passing from the Graves to Long Island light, you will see two buoys on your lar-
board hand, one of which 's on a reef called the Devil's Hack, is ])ainted red, and lies in 4
fathoms water; the other is on Ram's-head bar, jjainted black, and lies in IH feet water
on the N. E. end, bearing from Long Island light E. Ni E. Y'ouwill also pass a white
r
• Boston Lighthonee is situated on an island at the entrance of the harbor. The lantern is ele-
vated 82 feet above th^ level of the sea, and contains a revolving light, wliirh may be hcpii 9 or 10
leagues distant. When at the distance of 7 or 8 lentrucs, the time of darkness will be twice that of
light; as you approach it the time of darkness will decrease, and that of light increase, until yon get
within three leagues of it, when the light will not wholly disappear, but the greatest power of litjlit
will be to the leost, as 44 to 1. Two huts are erected at Long Beach (on Nantasket) for the ac
commodation of shipwrecked seamen.
t Remarks on-the single rock that lies off the north part of Point Alderton, viz : — The rock
on with the first fence that ruhs over the east side of Strawberry Hill ; Newcomb's Barn (on flal-
lop's Island) half way between the lighthouse on Long Island and the beacon on the spit. When
Newcomb's barn is on with the beacon, you pass just to the north of this rock, on the north of which
the buoy is placed, and near it.
t Marks for a shoal in Lighthouse Channel. — The east low point of Gallop's Island, jus{ seen
c\e9f of the N. E. of George's Island ; the buoy on the Centurion just clear to the north of the Great
Brewster: this is something of a shoai ; on it, at low water, are 12 to 13 feet. Mr. Wilson, Pilot
for Boston Harbor, struck on this shoal in a ship drawing 14 feet 9 inches water. Then the tide
ia»i flowed about tliree quarters of an hour.
BUJNT sJ AMERICAN TOAST Plf.OT.
173
lit) tlif iKirtIt
ribt'il in till'
If tti<- \\!ih\ til
III loiiD' witb-
irtlii r iIi:mi Ii>
Noll miiy
NDiitliwiird (il
Htlllll' distlUH't'
iVs Ikiii k, liiis
;ii'liii;ii'(l liiiiiil.
lilihiluiiisf S.
I)y W. fliNtiiiit
mIiIi li in siiDill
(lisfiiiice, you
rl ol ll-.triliii's
1 locK^- iniiy lie
ml. 'I'lifii' i«4
liter on jl'oiiii
ly N. one milt!
•r olii <'iilil<''H
liimy ill ■-' l';ith-
sic's Isliiiid \\("*
Itli 11 r<»'t \v:»-
(iiiliiip'N Ishiiid
ows, Ity Nick's
(iiiiiiiM'iil on It,
in stof-r \V by
Mate, you will
liiiiid, distimt .'(
V n white ImoV,
!;ivli(i:ini IkiiiiI.
Itiir the Ipper
u leiivr on yoi'r
tlie two iioith-
y \V. 2^ miles,
nioper channel
e };iven : w hen
oil must leave
bear S. K. and
lich is elevated
ij,'hthouse, W.
hand.
lys on your lar-
d, and lies in 4
n 15 feet water
0 pass a white
|he lantern is ele-
be Mipii 9 or 10
|l be twice lliat of
ise, until yon pet
1st power oflJKlit
lisket) for the ac-
iviz : — The rock
Is Barn (on (!al-
]the spit. When
16 north of w hich
Island, jusi seen
lorth of the Great
Ir. Wilson, Pilot
Then the tide
hiinv nn ynnr Htiirhnnrd hand, wliirli lien on the N. K. point of Knnn hni, in 2} fathnnm,
(at wiiieh' lime Louk iHhiiid hend li^lit will hear S. W.) when you niiiiit I'ullow the dircc*
lions above, lor the lown.
A lilai'k buoy with .i white vane, has been plaeed ricur to the Itarrel Kork, which lies
io the liroad .'><ounil ehaniicl, at tin' entrance ol lioston harbor, .'i'he biuiv i» moored
about 7 lathoiiiM N. K. iVoiii the rock, in :\\ latlKUiis water, about 1} mile W. by H. from
the liodv of the (Iravi-^, one liairiiul«» .\. W", from ihi'Devil's Hack, W. N. W. from the
house on (iiecii hlaiid, and N. K. ,' K. Iroiii the tree on l.oii^' Inland head. Thin rook
is lit or I'J leet hum, ii'id !') or ii fcrt wide, raimiiu; N. .\. W. and S. .S. K. hnving 4 or 6
feet of waler'iipon it at low tide, anil .1', lathoiiis round it. Vessels may pHiiii with Hnfely
either side of the buoy, ^'ivin^ it a berth of [•* or l.'i fathoms, hut the eaitrrn paMage is
said to be preferable lor Niran^ers.
The jjower Middle (iioiiiid lyiiu; in the way, tlie directions are an fotlows, vir,.
The [wower iMiddle (iround, which lies on the north side ot the channel, a little abov.0
.Spectacle Inland, is in pirl dry at low water. On the eastern part is a rod btiOj, and ou
the western part is a black buoy, in two fathoms water, both whii'h you leBVfl on your
Ntarboard hand, at whii h time you may sec the white buoy on the Cailtle Rooks, before
nieiilioiied.
I'uddini; Point, nr Shirley tint MntraiKc, is between Faun 'Har and Wlnship's Bar.
Voii must t)rin^ it to bear .S. W. and run lor it, leaviiiii Shirley Point on the starboard,
and * Deer Island on the larboard hand. 'JMie channel from thifl gtit to Soston is •«
crooked and narrow, that no person should attempt to go in with a large fJBieel, unlMM
acijiiainted, wiihuut a pilot. ' . \
IIVI'OCHITK I'A."-;SA(;K.— Coiuiiii; fi'om sea, you leave the Graved, >^JMa4llg
null, (irecii Island, and Half-tide Itocks, on voiir starboard, and the Outer WOjiKler,
Little and (ireat Call Island, on your larboani hand, '^otk.; — Half-tide Rolhj£H« to
tlie west of <!reeu Island, one third of a mile, and opposite Clttle Calf Islanll^RttUlt
about halt'a mile, and come (lilt at half ebb.]
Ciiviiij; the (iraves a berth of one ijiiarler of a mile, the course ui^ for. ^iltlli Calf
Island's N. K. point is aixiiit W. by S. disli-.nt 1-^ mile fum the^iravet. i|j|''yott JMM
up, ji'ive the soutli side of (ireen Island a berth of one quarter u^a mile M iipM K fodge
of rocks that runs olV from the south side of .he Island, about oue eighth ortHN''. ' Wh#n
nearly up with the N. K. poiiA of the Little Calf, give it a beith of about i0$i^AO fath*
oins, and after passing it, steer for the north point of. the Great Calf lelaolri nMol t]he
west end of whicli the course is S. W. or run up by ii, keeping the S. W. IjJiWl of P*t^
tick's Island open to the west of the beacon on the spit. In passing bMwcea Love^ii
Island and the beacon un the spit, keep nearest the island, as a ledge of rocks eftt<i|MUl
from the spit from bO to 8(1 fathoms, and comes out of water at half ebb, lying abovl^tt
third of a mile N. K. from the beacon. There is also a ledge (or roch) lying abovjIlBld-
way between the beacon and the S. K. point of Lovell's Island^Ukviiig 6 feet on It at lo<r
spring tides. Af'cr passing the beacon, you enter the Narrows* ' Lovell's Iffltuid thakei
the east side of the entrance to the narrows.
Marks taken on shore, at the old Lighimhise. f
White Buoy of Hanlen's Rocks ^ .(5. E. i S. "T^
Ked IJuov 011 Point Alderton : ,' S. S. fe- ' "^
Black 15ui' on the Centurion W.S.'tS^. -i_
Black Buoy on (ieorge's Island Rocks W.ljy S. i S. jf /
S. E. head of George's Island J. . .W. b)i S. f <S<, ^ *'
beacon on the spit .•...WI^^.
Kast head of Petti<rk's Island 5. W.'by W.
Outer rocks of Coliasset S. B. by E. i E.
Lighthouse ou Long Island Head *. .W. ^ N.
^ Bnarinqs of sundry places from the East Head of NahoTit.
South side of Nahant Rock N. N. E^ E.
Pig Rocks, (south dry rocks) N. E. ^ E.
* In consequence of part of Deer Island's washing awny, p shoal is made off from the S. or 8.
W. point, in about a W. S. W. direction, called the Handkerchief, about 40 or 50 fathoms long,
ranging about E. N. E. and W. S. W. It is covered at high water, but dry at very low tides, which
makes it dangerous for vessels coming in and going out through Broad Sound. A black busy is
now placed near the point, which must, in passing, be left to the northward, when passing t|)roi|igh
Broad Sound.' f :
t The Roaring Bull lies between the west end of the Graves and the east end of Green T^^mf,*
174 BLUNf's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Half vvjiy Rock N. E.by E.
Tinker's I.sl.ind (.soiitli point) N. K. ,', K.
Baker's Island Li^lits N. E. V, K.
Eust end of tlie CJraves S. by E. ^ E.
Long Island Lii^hthouse S. W. ^' S.
North point of Deer Island S. W.
"Vessels outward bound, from Boston I/i.!ilitlio)i,sc, who would wish to fall in with
,,j.v .- *Cape Cod, the course is >S. E. by E. > E. distant 11 leagues, thence ;! leagues to the
r-^: lighthouse. When up with the lighthouse, and it bears S. W. 2 leagues distant, you
may then steer S. S. lit. which will carry you out of tin; south chaiuiei.
Vessels in Boston Bay, who put away tor (.'ape Cod Harbor, must endeavor to fall in
with Race Point Lighthouse, which contains a revolving light, and run for it until with-
in half a mile ; when it bears E, N. E. haul up E. .S. E. or as near as the wind will permit,
and anchor in from 10 to 4 fathoms, in Herring Cove, where is a good lee, with the wind
from N. N. E. to S. E. by E. Shoul ' the wind shift to the N. \V. Provincet(»wn Har-
bor is under the lee, to which we refer. Siufuid you first make Cape Cod Light, bring
it to bear E. by N. and run for it until you have soimditigs in 14 or i:> fathoms water";
then steer N,E. until the fight bears E. by 8. ; then run in N. \V. (or the harbor. The
course )^nS^)6oston Lighthouse to Sandwich is first S. E. by E. .'3 leagues to Cohasset
Kocks; mttice to Sandwich S. S. E. 14 leagues.
When between Cape Ann and Cape Cod, you will have .3o to 19 fathoms water, which
latter sounding is within 2 leagues of Boston Lighthouse: the (jualitv of the soundinss
is more ttf be depended on than the depth of the water, as you will (ind a diifcreuce of 5
or 6||il|ibm3 in running a cable's length. You will observe that the (|uality of soundings
is^MBJl on Cape Ann side, and sandy on Cape Cod.
At^H,and change, it is high water o(f Race Point at 10 o'clock and 45 minutes. Ves-
sels in'Wrong Cape Cod, bound to Boston, siiould calculate the tide, as the /lood sets
8trons,|K^i^ S. W. off Cape Cod, from the Race to ('hatham ; flood sets to the south,
ebbto'tliC'|(erth; southern tide, 9 hours; northern tide, 3 hours.
The a^^r buoys in Boston Harbor will be taken up during the winter season; but
those in JIP yjcinity, including Salem and Cape Ann, are not taken up during the win-
ter. ;^|SKfae PLATE.)
BO|||©N LIGHTHOUSE TO CAPE ELIZABETH LIGHTS— From Boston
LightiMilie to Thatcher's Island Lights, which lie two miles east from Cape Ann, the
cooMe isN. E< I N. and the d'ifitance 8^ leagues; but to clear the Londoner, which you
lesve on your larboard hand when bound to Cape Elizabeth, the course is N. E. by E.
AbettClialf way, and near the'north shore, is a high bold rock, called Half-way Rock, of
about^O fathoms diameter, (on which is a Monument) bearing S. W. by W. distant 7j
miles ftomthe eastern point of Cape Ann, before described.
F'rom Thatcher's Inland E. S. E. one ht^lf of a mile, lies a ledge of rocks, called the
I^ndoner, which show themselves at half tide, and extend E. N. E. and W. S. W. dis-
tant two miles from the inland. If you should be forced to the northward of Cape Ann,
there is a very clean bay, called Ipswich Bay, and north-east from it lies the harbor of
Portsmouth, the entrance to which is formed by Great Island on the west, and Gerrish's
Island on tiie east, on the former of which the town of Newcastle is built.
Fr(hn Cape Ann Lights to the Isles of Shoals, the course is N. J E. distant 6| leagues.
These Isles arc low and level, and near two miles in length. South from their west end
half a mile distant, lies a rock, which may be seen at half tide, and by giving the west
end of these idands af berth of 1| mile, a N. by W. course will carry you to the entrance
of Portsmouth Harbor, 9 miles distant. The westernmost of these islands has a Light-
house on It, as fully described in page 158.
• Strangers should never attempt to go round the east end of these islands ; but if dri-
ven thereto, give them a berth of half a mile, and steer N. W. by N. which will carry
you to Portsmouth. Nor'h-east from Cue erst end of these islands, 4 miles distant, lies
York Ledge, which is always to be seen, and exten<ls N. E. and S. W. iwo miles.
From York Ledge to Boon Island Light the course is E. N. E. distant 'J miles. From
Boon Island Light to Boon Island Rock, (on wliich the sea always breaks) the course is
east, and the distance 3 miles. From Boon Island Light to Wood Island Light, the
. course is N N. E. distant 12 leagues, and from thence to Cape Elizabeth the coarse is
N. E. i E. distant 4 leagues.
BOSTON BAY, FROM CAPE COD OR CAPE ANN, TO BOSTON LIGHT-
HOUSE.— ^Boston Lighthouse, as before mentioned, stands on a small island at the en-
* Cape Cod is low and sandy land. Capo Ann is middling high, with many trees on it.
latter is araanarkable land, called Pigeon Hill, which appears like a boat bottom ap.
On the
•MJHU
^ '.•1
t;;W,.'«toA.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PII,0T.
175
trance of the cliannel, and is about 8.2 feet hiah, incluiling the lantern. Tos teer for
it from Capo tJod, when in 5 laihuins, olf *Pcek.'(l Hill bar, your course is N. W. by
W. i W. 14 leai;ues. Sliould it be thiciv weather, and you should fall in with the south
shore of Scifuate in 15 fathoms, steer north till you get into 16 fathoms, when Bos-
ton light will bear \V. N. W.
From the Kaee Point lighthouse to Boston lighthouse, is about 11 leagues. From
Cape Ami lights to Boston light, the course is S. W. i S. distant 8,^ leagues.
There are two lights on TiiatchiM-'s Island. This island contains about 30 acres of
laml, secured by an iron-bomul shore, and is situated about two mile^ east of the main
land of Cape Ann. It alfords no harbor, nor is there any safe anchorage ve-y near it.
There is a |)assage between that and the main, through whi(di smc^ vessels may pass even
at low tide, but the water is shoal, and the bottom covcMcd by a collection of large round
stones. The lighthouses were erected there for the benelit of vessels coming in from
sea, as well as for those coasting around the shores. As soon as these lights are dis-
covered, they can know their real situation; for Ijeing two lights, they cannot be taken
for the single revolving lighi at Boston Harbor, or for the Plymouth lights, where there
are also two, but the distance beiwt^en them is only 11 feet 6 inches, while the distance
between those on Thatcher's Island is about one third of a mile, andean be brought to
range one with the other when you are abreast of the island, and bear N. by E.J JE. and
S.by W. J W. from each other, and those on Plumb Island bears E.by N.iBflW. by S.
from each other. The lights on Thatcher's Island are of great use to all vends in their
passage in or out, as they point out the situation of the Salvages on the nqltl], and the
Londoner on the south. Besides, from the different bearings pf the Hghtlfc a safe de-
parture may be taken for the dill'erent hariiors in the bay, as well as for th^e bound
northerly and to sea. For remarks more minute, you will find them in the dH^illlions
for sailing to Boston light to Baker's Island lights, and to those on Plumb Isla/^djittthe
mouth of Newburyport harbor. .^^
fSClTUATE. — The lighthouse at the entrance of Scituate harbor was ertfi^flpB more
for the benefit of foreigners, who fall into the bay southward of Cohasset rdcks, aad as
a guide to southern coasters to avoid ('edar Point, which is flat, and projects 'intone bay
beyond the dirt's, than for any advantages to be derived frora'the harbor, wbidfa is small,
having only about 1*2 feet water o.i the bar at high water middling tides. Slij^pjia^hght-
house is four miles to the southward of Cohasset Rocks, elevated thirty faP«b^e the
level of the sea, showing two lights, one above the other, the lower one red,^|ij|the up-
per one white, distinguishing it from Boston light, on the north, which is Iriilt^volvibg
light, and Plymouth lights on the south, which shgw twjp lights (or lanterns on the sai^e
building.) ^ ?
From the body of the lighthouse, the northerly^ipart of Cedar Point, and a:3j^d|^e
called Long Ledge, extends N. N. W. nearly one mile; so that vessels falling in a little
more than one mile northward of the light, may bring the light to bear south; and if
they make good their course north, they will clear the outer ledges of Cohasset |td^ks::
half a mile east of the body ol' the light will clear Cedar Point, Long Ledge, ahd th*
first Cliff Ledge.
[Note. — There are ledges extending from all the four cliffs, but none betweed them;
and half a mile from the shore will clear all, except frigates and large vessels.]
From the body of the lights, running S. S. f. will clear Branch's Point, ognsequeiltljt^
giving the lights half a mile berth, there will be no danger in running S. S. E. ' *
There is a passage within Cohassett Rocks, used by coasters, which is found by giv-
ing the lights half a mile berth, and running N. W. by N. to the southerly entering rock.
There is a meeting-house about two miles W. by N. from the lights ; ^d a farm-house
near the north-west side of the harbor, with two large barns a. little north. To go into
the harbor (the mouth of which is about one third of a mile wide) bring the meetingn
house or farm-house to bear about W. by N. from the middle of the entrance of the
harbor, and run in W. by N. for the farm-house, until you, have passed the bar< which is
a hard bed of stones and gravel that does not shift v and after passing the bar, and com-
ing on sandy bottom, haul up and anchor near the beach on the south side of .the har-
bor.
* Remarks by dipt. Tyerett, off Cape Cod. — " Ikin£r well in with the land, when the lighthouse
on the Highlands was abeam, we steered N. W. by W. about two leagues, which Lrought us t/p
with Pecked Hill bar: then W. S. W. three leagues, which brought us up with Race Point; thep
steered S. S. E. for Wood End Point, about 3 leagues, or until wc got the light on tke Highland to
bear E. by N. then run E. by N. about 4 miles, to good anchorage."
+ Scituate light is on Cedar Point, at the entrance of a small shallow creek which fonns Scitinto
Harbor, 13 miles to ihe southward of Boston Light. "-.
hJ
176
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
;■, i
♦PLYMOUTH HARBOR— The high land of the Monument bears from tlie nj,'hts
S. I W. ;} :niles, and fMonnment point S. S. E. 3 leagues and Branche's ;>oint N. i \V.
about 3 leagues. Saquash Head \V. ^ S. 3 miles, the easternmost part of iJrown's Isl-
ands or shoal that dries, S S. W. 1] niile, and the (iurnet Kock from the body of the
lighthouse E. by S. J S. one third part of a mile ; on this rock you have but 3 feet at
low water, at which time all the soundings were taken, and '.]},- fathoms along side at the
same time. A white buoy is placed nuar this rock, bearinj; E. S. E. from the lighthouse,
distant about one third of a mile. When you have shut in the Sandy Hill with the (Gur-
net Head, you are clear of the rock ; after which you must mind nut to haul in too close
to the head, as there are many sunken rocks some distance from the shore. When you
bring Saquash Head to h^ar W. by N. you may steer up W. by S. and if you are bound
for Plymouth you must k^ep that course for a large red clilf on the main, which is a very
good mark to carry you clear of Dick's Flat; tlien you must steer more southerly for
Beach Point, or run up until yoa are abreast of .Saqunsh Head, giving it one quarter of
a mile distance; then steer W. by S. \ S. which will clear you of Dick's Flat, and car-
ry you directly for Beach Pomt. keeping within 15 or 20 yards of the Sandy Point, steer-
ing away for the southward, fiwsping thai distance until you have shut in the lights, where
you may anchor in 3 and 4 fathoms, but the channel is very narrow, having nothing but a
flat all the way to Plymouth, except this small channel, which runs close by this neck of
land : you will have 4 and 5 fathoms close to this point. If you are bound into the Cow-
yard, you mijst steer as before directed, which will clear you of the stone monument on
Dick's Flat^and that on the Muscle Bank, both of which you leave on your starboard
hand, wyeai, you may anchor in 7 or 8 fathoms water. If bound to Kingston, you will
keep tfaltl^buse on Gurnet Head just open with Saquash Head, until you have opened
die b^a||l pines with Clerk's Island; then you are clear of the Muscle Bank, when you
mdj^J^r N. W. until you have 3 fathoms at low water, not running into less.
«hi°8 from the northward, bound into Plymouth, you must not bring the lights
moresfl^lerly than S. by W. tds|i*liid High Pine Ledge, which lies north from the (Jur-
net Heii^, idbout 2| or three mil^s. When you are on the shoalest part of this ledge,
80fl^e;^it'oC which appears at low ebb, you will have the high pines in range with Cap-
tain's fi^U^lVliiieh will then bear W. by S. This ledge of rocks lies li mile from the shore,
eittea<H^i|^|^ N. N £. for near a mde, and close to this ledge you will have 4 and 5
fttlioaiSf^1|MPi^ deepens gradually as you run from it to the eastward : within one mile,
yim ir^^^l^pi 10 and 12 ^thonui.
In oeftiii^ from the southwardf^ bound into Plymouth, you must not open the northern
yght to the- westward, but keep them in one, which will carry you in 5 fathoms by the
' «B>teramost part of Brown's Islands or shoal, keeping that course until you are within
'lialif a mtle of Gurnet Head or nigher, where you will have but 4 fathoms ; then Saquash
HW<i Witt bear W. by N. a httle northerly, and the two outermost tree« on the head in
ba^;' then you may steer directly for them, until you bring the lights to bear E. N. E.
and the house on Saquash Head to bear N. W. just open with the first Sandy Beach,
where you may anchor in 4 fathoms in Saquash Road, good clear bottom ; but if you
are bound for Plymouth or the Gow-yards, you must steer as before directed. If in the
dight, it is best to anchor liere, as it is difficult to make Beach Point (as it is mostly co-
vered at high water) if dark, or to go into the Cow-yard.
. Id turning into Plymouth, you must stand to the northward into not less than 3 fathoms,
«fl it runs a flat a long way from the Gurnet Head to Saquash ; and from both the heads
lies oflfa point of rocks a good way from the shore, many of them but just under water
at low ebbs. And all the way from Saquash to the Muscle Bank, you have shoal water;
so thatyou must not stand in less than before mentioned. And in standing over for the
sands to the southward, you must go about as soon as you shoalen your water to 4
fathoms, as it is bold to, and you may observe the rips, unless it is very smooth. This
* This harlior is capaciousj but S'.nllow, and is formed by a lon^ and narrow neck of land, called
Salthouse Beach, extending southerly from Marshfield, and terminating at the Gurnet Head, and by
a smaller beach within, running in an opposite direction, and connected with the main land near
Eel River, about 3 miles from the town. Tliere arc two lightiiouses on the Gurnet, which arc about
86 feet abpve the surface of the sea, 15 fe(!t apart, containing fixed lights, and cannot be brought
into one to the northward, unless you are on the shore. But to the southward you may bring them
in one, which is a very good mark to clear you of Brown's Island or sand bank. (Dn Salthouse
Beach is placed one of the huts erected and maintained by the Humane Society of Massachusetts,
lor the reception and relief of shipwrecked mariners. There is a breach in the inner beach, which
ekpjfies the shipping, even at the wharves, during an easterly storm. The Gurnet is an eminence
at the southern extremity of the beach.
f Monument Bay (from which the point takes its name) is formed by the bending of Cape Cod,
It ia apacious and convenient for the protection of shipping.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
177
rorn tlie lights
point N. h ^^ •
I' Brown's Isl-
le body of the
i but :3 feet at
)ng side at the
he lighthouse,
with tlie (iur-
uil in too close
», When you
yon are bound
wliichis a very
e southerly lor
one quarter of
J Flat, and car-
[\y I'oint, steer-
^e lights, where
g nothing but a
by this neck of
d into the Cow-
e monument on
your starboard
gston, you will
ou have opened
iank, when you
less.
bring the lights
h from the Gur-
rt of this ledge,
range with Cap-
; from the shore,
'ill have 4 and 5
vithin one mile,
pen the northern
fathoms by the
1 you are within
then Saquash
on the head in
bear K. xN. E.
Sandy Beach,
torn; but if you
ted. If in the
it is mostly co-
ect
s than 3 fathoms,
n both the heads
ust under water
>ve shoal water;
iiig over for the
your water to 4
y suiooth. This
le
ck of land, called
met Head, and by
le main land near
t, which arc about
annot be brought
u may bring thcin
k. On Salthouse
of Massachusetts,
inner beach, which
net is an eminence
iding of Cape Cod.
imt(T extends from abreast of the lights to Beach Point, most of which is dry at low ebbji.
From the easternmost i)art of this sand to Dick's Flat, it rounds witli a considerable
gweep: you have but 5 fathoms water from the easternmost part of Brown's Island to the
Gurnet Ilead, and not more than 7 or H until yoti are abreast of l)i( k's Flat, where you
will have IJ or 14 f.ithoiii>i in a deej) liole, and then shoaleuto 5 fathoms iiureat,': of Beach
Point.
If you should fall in to the sotithward of Brown's Islands or shoal, between them and
the Monument Land, where you have 20 fathoms in some places, you must not attempt
to run for the lights, until you have tiiemshut in one with the other, when they will bear
N. N. W. TT W.; if you do, you m ly depend on being on Brown's Islands or Shoals, as
there is no passage for even a boat at low water.
Incoming in from the northward in the night, you must nSl bring the light to bear
more southerly than S.l)y \V. to avoid High Pine Ledge, and keep that course until you
have them to bear N. W. orN. W. by W. when you will be clear of the rock, and may
slecr up W. by S. unfd you have lights to bear E. N. E. where you had best anchor iH
the night. Here the tide runs strong channel course from'the Gurnet to the Race Point
of Ca|)e Cod ; the course is E. h N. about G Icaguns distanbe; and from the Gurnet to
the ]ioint going into Cape Cod Harbor, is E. by S. 7 leagues.
If you should make the lights in hard northerly or N. W. winds, and caanot get into
Plymouth, you may then run for Capo Cod Harbor, bringing the tights tajbeat W. by
N. anil steer directly for Race Point Light, following the direxitidns 'given for entering
Provincetown Harbor, by the fixed light on Long Point, and come to anchor. If it
should l)low so hird that you cannot tursiupthe harbor, you may anchor oJ^th« point,
clear bottom; you have 8 and !) fathoms very nigh the shore, so that there is rib (famger
of being on it, unless very dark. «'■:
At the (iurnct and Plymouth the tides arc much the same as at Boston; thati|j(|^;,§.
E. moon makes full s'-a. ' 'j!^' ,^f^^ * •••.
CAPE CUD HAR150R.— If yon wishto go infb-t^a'pe Cod Harbor, yott j|Bgr pass^
within half a mile of the light on *Ka(:e Point. After passing it, bring it tii> Jfejir K.;Nr
W. and run S. S. E. until the light on the highland bears E. by N. then mtffof it ^ ta
3 mill's, when you will be clear of Wood End Bar; then N. E. to bring thej^pf on the
Irligliland to bear E. h S. v.'hen ha;il up N. W. for the harbor, and anchor tllKiC^iktboqu,
when the light will bear E. by S. ^ S. 5 or 6 miles distant. ' -i.^'^
In going into C nie Co I Harbor in the night, you ma^.follow the above dli^|ipRS <(ill'
the light ou the Highlands hears E. by N. when you m3y run for it till you gil4l||ilo Afii-
tlioms, when you must steer N. W. for Provincetown, keeping the same souaipi^|!|,' abott't
2 miles distant. t' >'V'
.Ships oi' war should bring the light on Race Point to bearN. by W; and#teef S^t^;>
E. to pass WoodlMi 1 Bar in li) fathoms ; as soon as the light on Long Point beatt'lS^.
E. I)y N. steer N. E. uirtil in 8 fatlio-tis water, when anchor, the light ou the K^|;H-
lands of Cape Cod bearing iVoiu E. i \. to K. }- S. '. ", •
Good ancliorage iii ly be found in a N. E. gale, by rUtirtirig for Race Point t.is;ht, gil'*-
ing it one third of a ntih; distance as you pass it; as soho «fe i^ bears E. N. E. when you
will be safe with tho wiijj from N. N. E. to S. E. by E. kaulup E. S. E. and aaekdr tit
from 10 to 4 fathoms. if*
Vf'ssi'ls inward bound, who fall in wltli ilie back of Cape Cod, may bring thefltgjjt to
bear .S. W. 2 h^agU'-'' d:sta:i!, a:ul then steer W. N. W. for Boston Lighthouse, which
contains a revolvuiir li'zlit.
When up v/ith Rare Point, you will find it very bold about one mile to the westward
of the lighthouse, and it may be known by a number of fish-houses on jt. About ou«
mile to the soutliwurd of Race Point is whit is called Hefrring Cove, where you may
have good aiichoraiie half a mile from t!ie sliore, the wind from E. to N. N. E. ia 4, or
even in 3 fathoms water.
In passing Race i^oint to the southward, yoti must give it a berth of one mile, as there
is a long (lat of sand that lies to the southward of said j)oint. You must not haul to the
eastward till you come near Herring Cove.
* There is alifrhthousc rrrcted on the cxrrnnie point of Rare Point, which eontains A revolving '
light {on the same plan as IJastoii Light) to distianjuish if from tho one on the Hi/rhhinds of Cape Cod,
but it cannot be seen from vessels coininsz from sea until it bears R. S. W. ■J- S. when they run fw
it. The light is 25 feci ui)ove the level of the sea, and l.").'» feet, from high water nmrlc. ^■
t Tlu! lighthouse is erected on laud at the Clay i'ounds (liiaii laud of Cape Cod) ^j^ttt^a about
150 t'cet, which, with iht elovdtion of the lantern, iniikos thr wIioIl' Ik ight 200 fcetabo-t^ fiigh. v/iiter
mark.. It contains a fixed liudit, and is seldom seen more thou six leagues diatant>.
aa
178
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
li
In running from Raco Point to Wood End, after yon pass the Black Lanti or Hum-
mocks, you will come up with a low sandy beach which Conns the harbor, extpndinjj; be-
tween two and three miles t(» VV^ood End. which is difficult to be distinguished in the
night ; it is very bold, and you will have S2.5 fathoii»s water within one quarter of a mile
of the shore.
, In beating into Cape Cod Harbor, you must keej) the eastern shore aboard until you
get into 5 fathoms water. Stand no further to the westward than to i)riuf; the liirht to
bear E. by S. os there is a long spit of sand runs off from the western shore, which be-
ing very bold, you will have 11 fathoms water within a stone's throw of the shore.
If it blows so hanl that you cannot jjeat into the harbor, you will have good anchor-
ing without, in from lO.to 15 fathoms water. Or, if it blows hard at N. E. brinj; Race
Point Light to bear N. W. l)y N. and steer S. E. by S. 7 leagues, which course will car-
ry you into Wellfleet. In steering this course, you will make Harwich right ahead :
When yon open the bay, yqij will hring ]5iilingsga"te Island liight on your larboard hand,
when you may haul to the eastward, and anchor safe from all winds.
•PROVINCETOWN HARBOR.— In running for this harbor, vessels may pass
Race Point Light within half a mile; then sic.er ,S. S. E. until the light on Long Point
bears N. E. by N. which will clear Wooil End bar; then steer for the light until with-
in one third of a mile, at which distance pass it; then haul up N. N. W. and anchor in
frona 3 to 5 fathoms water, low tides.
Beating Into this harbor, vessels rrtay stand towards the eastern shore, into 4 to 21 fa-
thoms, wiA gradual soundings; the westet;) side is bold, having froui 'J to 10 fathoms,
close to Bonjl. Point.
tBJiiLINGSOATE ISLAND LIGHTHOrSE is fitted up with eight Lamps and
Reflectors.- It is situated so far up Barnstable Bay that it cannot be mistaken for any
other. ■' V
Billtogsgate Island is about 13^ feet above llio level of the sea at high water. It is high
water m this Bay, at the full and change of the moon, at 11 o'clock; the rise of the
ipring ii(^ is from 12 to 14 fefet ; common tides from ') to 11 feet. From the west end
o( BiHidjIit^te Island extends along shoal of hard sand 10 or 11 miles, in a W. by S. \
S. to W^%, N. from the hghthouse, and in a N. W. to N. N. W. direction, 5 or (i miles ;
at thedisticbce of 1^ to 2 miles from Uie light, is about 8 feet at low water, common tides;
w|d the inllfee^ing -house with a steeple in JJrewster, S. by E. at the distance of five miles
from th0jiightbouse, 10 to 12 feet, the meeting-house bearing S. 8.E. at the distance of
7 milefiw^ fathoms of water, the meeting-house bearing 8. E. by S. at these depths (»f
water tji» lighthouse bore from E. by N. to E. by N. i N. Crossing this shoal point of
flats* y<iu drop into 4 to 5 fathoms at the distance of 40 fathoms from the edge of this
' shoarf'N^eil the lighthouse will then bear E. N. E.
' Ih isMaing around the shoal, ai)proach no nearer than 2| fathoms. Soon as you deej)-
«tt!itd-4i"athoms, haul up for the light and anchor.
- Vessels drawing 12 feet of -water, or upwards, should bring the lighthouse to l)ear E.
N. IT* iO N. E. by E. and steer in E. by S. to E. S. E. until the ligluhouse l)ears N. by
W; wheli they will have good anchorage in 3 to 4 fathoms low water, common tides, soft
.muddy bottom, and distai;ce -frort) theliglnhou.se, ll to 1^ mile; Brewster meeting-
house on with a windmill ihat stands not far from it, when they will bear S. by W. ^ W.
alsq the north meeting-house, that stands un a hill in Eastham, and no other building
near t«i it, bore at the same time, E. |N.
T^e following bfearings and distances taken from the lighthouse : — The high land of
thfi NorthPoint ef the Monument, W. by N. ',' N. distance about ten leagues; entrance
of "Barnstable, th3 Black Land, called by some 8<'argo Hill, in Dennis, S. W. distance
l6 miles, S. W. | S. about 11 miles, Brewster meeting-house with a steeple to it, 8. i)y
'W. to S. 9 miles ; entrance o( Orleans, 8. E. 'j S. 6 miles; Eastham north meeting-
house,~'S. E. by ,E.f E. 4 miles; Silver Spring liarbor of Eastham, E. by N. '■} N. four
miles. The abovs places i\re all barred harbors, and flats extend offshore from one to
tworaiies, with little watsrover them.
A rock t'lat is in the passage Way up to WelKlcet, that is about 12 feet long and 8 feet
broad, cahed Bay ROck,' on which is about one or two feet water at low tide, and
round this rock is nme to eleven feet wafer at low tide, bearing from rhe lighthouse E.
by S. \ S. distance-one and a quarter mile. When on this Rock, Chipman's Wind-
*,A lighthouse, containing a fixed lifrht, lias been erected on Loni^ Point, at the entrance of Pro
"incetQwn Harbor^ and lies close to the Point, eleviited 2.') feet above the sen.
t Billingsgate Island Lighthouse i" on Billinsrsirate Point, at the entrance of Wellfleet Bay, five
1»agUe8.S« W»'by S'. firom Rnce Point light, contains a fi.vod light. It is elevated 40 feet above hijjU
F-rK
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
179
Joonasyovi deo})-
mill, which is the Soutli mill in Wollfleet, a Ultle open to iho nortii of a large rock
called Hhie Rock, by some, and stands near the shore of Welllleet when it will bear N.
N. E. I E. this rock is covered at hi2;h water; and a Windmill on a hill in Kastham, over
the salt mills, which is near the shore at Kastham, these beaiing E. by .S. from Bay
Rock. The East point of the Horse Shoe bears from the lighthouse E. N. E. distant
about one-third of a mile. On the south side of Rilliiiij;s^'ate Island, the flats extend off
the distance of one half to three quarters of a mile having on them at low water, com-
Dion tides, C to 9 feet water.
There is no rneetinff-house with ;t steeple to be seen to the eastward of Barnstable,
but the one in Brewster ; and this meetiuij-house is a good mark to pass over the Long
Shoal Point that extends ofl' from the lighthouse. ^ . . '
From the lighthouse cm the Race Point of ('ape Cod, when bearing £. N. E. the
course to Billingsgate point of flats, is S. l)y E. distance 21 miles. Vessels drawing 13'
feet water or upwards, should steer from the Race Lighthouse, south, when distant from
the Race, one or two miles.
TARNSTABLE BAY.— From Center ,Hill point to Satisett inlet, is about~4 miles,
bearing S. A E. This is a clean and bold jhore, and may be approached at the distance
of one third to half a mile, carrying 3| to 4 fathoms, sandy bottom. There is a bar of
gand that lies parallel with the shore, near Center HHl' point, extending to the south-,
ward, and terminating about three quarters of a mile to the northward of Sausett. From
the shore over this bar to .'3 fathoms water, the distance is '^40 to 250 fathom9> and > the
bar is from 100 to 140 fathoms wide, having on it from 9 to 11 feet water^ an^.betwcen
that and the shore from 3 to oh fathoms. From the south end of this bar alo^ ^hore
tc the entrance of Sandwich, is 'i fatlioms, and distance 70 to 90 fathoms, saody D^C^ID,
and regular soundings, as you approach the shore. -J"
On the south side of Sausett inlet is a low rocky poiat of 90 fathoms. Three' fourths
of a mile off shore are 3 fathoms, and at the distance Of 1| or 2 miles, are 9 tOffO fa-
thoms, miuldy hottoiii. * ^
Passing from Sandwich towards Barnstable, the flats run off shor" ' '*0to 180||thoms.
The soundings are reduced to low water ; th.e neap tides 8 fee- comm<in l|«je8 9 to
10 feet ; spring tides 12 to 13. High water in the bay at fulFand chjange of ^(6 mooti,
at 11 o'clock. ^' y*
«BARNSTABLE HARBOR.— When coming from the northward, the barn»s»t^4ot ;
he approached in less than 5 fathoms water, until the lighthouse on Sandy ^^itpfl^i
S. W. I W. which will bring you up with the buoy on the bai'', haul closft rouBB|p'jteOT-
ing it on your starboard hand, run two cables' lengths S. S. W. then steer S. .^^^y W.
i W. 1| mile, which will bring you up with the tongue of Yarmouth Flats, i|>|(atil tllA
light bears S. W. by S. then steer for the light. Be careful to make the aboi^connM
good, as the flood sets strong over Yarmouth Flats, and the ebb strong to the D||^(,l}wa]Nl '
over the bar. Continue to run for the light until within the cable's, length of the b^aob,
«nd follow the shofe round the point. There is safe anchorage iiwide, abreaaf rf tlte
light, against all wiiids, it bearing from S. W. to N. E. in 5 to 2^ fathoms wateVg . J
Vessels drawin^ 8 ieet water may, at high water, bring'thsihght to bear S. W. |- W.
and run directly for it. Full sea at fitll change at 11 o'clock. Tide rises l6 feet^ and
there ; re 7 feet watci ga the bar at low water.
'i'-^M
c entrance of Pro»
Description of the eastern coast of the county o/ Bahnstabie, from Cape Cod to Race Potwf, intht,
4"-K>5' N. to Cape MnJeharre, to the Saudij point of ChathaTr, in Zat. 41° 3V N. pointing out the
spots on which the Trustees of the Humane Society have erected hut8,andr other places wjkt^t
shipwrecked Seamen may look for shelter. ' '
The curvature of the shore, on the west side of Provincetown, and South of Race Poin<| ^ <JliD-
cd Herring Cove, w'hich is three miles in Icnsrih. There is good 'anchoring 'ground here,Lf^ '"^"
sels may ride safely in four or five fathoms wafer, when the wind is from north-east to soutp
On Race Point stand about a do/en fishing huts, roninining firp-placrs and other conveH
The distance from these huts-, to Provincetown, whicli lies on Cape Cod Harbor, is three']
Tlie passage is over a sandy honcii, without grass, or any other vegetable growing on it, to ther?
woods, through which is a winding road to the town. It would be difficult, if not impossible, for a
stranger to find his way thither in tlie dark ; and the woods are so full of ponds and entangling
swamps, that if the road was missed, destruction would probably be the cdnsequence of tUtcmj)tii)j|*^
to penetrate them in the night. '.■*:
Not far from Race Point commences a ridgo, which extends to the head of Stout's Creefc* Wilfc?'
the face to the east, on the left hand of the ridge, is the sandy shore ; on the right is a.9arr<tw *#n-i,is|
* A fixed Hght is erected at the entrance of Barnstable Harbor, ui a lantern orectted M$^ Wl
of a dwelling home, above which it riaes 16 feet. *-
180
BLIjNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT,
!
Hy vnllry; Iieyond wliicliis nnknci Pfiiid, rrncliinff to the hills nnd woods of Provincptown. Thi»
ridge JH well covered willi bench ^thss, nnd «|)i)cnrs to owe its existence to tiiat ve{retnl>le.
Uench frrnas, diirini,' the sprintj nnd summer, frrows nliout two feet nnd a iinlf. If siirroimded bjr
nnkcd beach, the storn.s of Qutnmn and winter iienp up the snnds on nil sides, and cniise it lo rise
nearly to the top of the ]ilnnt. In the ensuinjr sprini:, the irruss sprciuts anew ; is ngniii covered with
»and in the winter, and thus a hill or ridge continues to asct-nd, sis lontr as there is a snllicieiU base
to support it, or until the elrcuniscribing sand, being also covered witii beach grass, will no longer
yield to the force of the winds.
On this ridge, half way between Race Point and the head of Stout's Creek, &c. Trustees of tlio
Humane Society have erected a hut. It stands a mile from Peeked Hill, a landmark well known to
Peamen, and is about 2J miles from Race Point. Seamen, r;ist away on this part of the coapt, will
find a shelter here, and in north-east storms, should they striise to the Icpward of it, and be unalile to
turn their faces to the windward, by passing on to Race Point, they will soon come to the fishing
huts before mentioned.
At the h^ad of Stout's Creek the Trufctees have built a second hut. Stout's Creek is a small branch
of East harbor in Truro. Many years ajao there was a bcdy of snlt marsh on it; and it tiien de.
ferved the name of a creek. But the marsh was long sinee destroyed ; and the creek now scarcely
exists, appearing only Hke a small depression in 'he sand, being entirely dry, and now principally
covered with beach grass. The creek runs from north. wtst to soiiih-east, and is nearly parallel with
the shore on the ocean, from which it is at no great distance. Not i'ar from it the hills of Province-
town tenainate; and should not the hut be found, by \salking round the head of the creek, with
the f^^tt^i'the- west, theiiilis on the right hand, and keeping close to the shore on the harbor, in
less tmn^ jionr the shipwreokad seaman would come to Provincetown. It is high water at Tru.
ro alioitt 10 minutes sooner than ^t Boston.
TimjIifii^iiiiHii Society, several years ago, erected a hut at the head of Stout's Creek, but it was
buil|$tfaii feiproper manner, having a chimney in it, nnd was [daced on a spot where no beach grass
grtfr. Tho strong winds blew the find from its foundation, and the weight of the chimney brought
ft tt^the ground, so that in Janoary, 1802, it was entirely demolished. This event took place about
ri» #i|ks before the Brutus was caJst away. If it had remained, it is i)robable that the whole of
tfaMitmrtunate crew of that ship would have been saved, as they gained the shore a few rods only
fnini tli#JB|)ot where the hut had stood.
JDu^^now erected, stands on a place covered with beach grass. To prevent any accident from
" it, or to the other hut near Peeked Hill, the Trustees have secured the attention of se-
.n in the neighborhood. Dr. Thaddeus Brown, and Capt. Thomas Smalley, of Pro-
five engaged to inspect both huts, to see that they are sui)plied with straw or hay in the
^ lie doors and windows are kept shut, and thai repairs are made when necessary. The
nnon, ofTruro^Jias also promised to visit tlie hut at Stout's Creek twice orthrice a year ;
Mr. Whitman.'of Wellfleet, distinguished through the country for his activity and be-
lis undertaken, though remote from the place, the same charge.
head of Stout's Creek to tfie termination of the salt marsh, which lies on both sides,
,Blf8 St the head of East Harbor river, the distance is about 3J miles. A narrow beach separates
tliis hyef frotn the ocean. It is not so regidar a ridge as that before described, as there are on ii
one or Hfjroliills which the neighboring inhabitants call islands. It may without much difliculty be
crossed ftvery where except over these «!evations. By these hills, even during the night, the lieach
mm^ bo distinguished from those hereafter to be mentioned. It lies from N. W. to S. E, and is in
moat piftrtb covered with beach grass. The hills have a few shrubs on the declivities next the river.
/it the end of the marsh the beach subsides a httle, and there is an easy passage into a valley in
which aniaituBted two or three dwelling houses. The first on the left hand, or south, is a few rods
only from the ocean.
The shore which extends from this valley to Race Point, is unquestionably the part of the coast
the most expflsed to shipwrecks. A north-east storm, the ntost violent and fatal to se men, as it is
frequently accorftpanied with snow, blows directly on the land ; a strong current sets a...>ng the shore :
add to which, that ships, during the operation of such a storm, endeavor to work to the norihwrnd,
that they mdy get into the bay.' Should they be unable to weather Race Point, the wind dri\es thein
rn shore, and a shipwreclwis inevitable. Accordingly the strand is every where covered with the
fragments of vessels. 'Huts, therefore, placed within a mile of each other, have been thought ne-
cessary by many judicfcus persons. To this opinion the Trustees are disijosed to pay due respect,
and hereafter, if the funds of'the Society increase, new huts will Le built here for the relief of the
unfortunate.
From the valley above mentioned the land rises, and less than a mile from it the high land com-
mences. ~.0n tljetfij^t elevated spot (the Clay Pounds) stands tho hghthouse, which contains a
fixnd li.i'bti which ev«ry navigator should impress on his mind. ' The shore here turns to the south;
and the high hind extends to the table land of Eastham. This high land approaches the ocean
with steepland lofty banks, which it is extremely difi'icult to climb, especially in a storm. In vio^
lent tertipests, during very high tides, tljg^ea breaks against the foot of them, rendering it then unsafe
to walk on the strand, which lies between them and the ocean. Should the seaman succeed in his
attempt to ascsnd tbem, he must forbear to penetrate into the country, as houses are generally so
remote, that they would escape his research during the night : he must j)ass on to the valleys, by
whickthebankp ire intersected. These valleys, which the inhabitants call hollows, 'run at right
DBlfies widr the shore ; and in the middle, or lowest part of them, a road leads from the dwelling.
kou«^ to tlie 9ea.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
181
Provincofown. Tin*
lat vf{ictnl)lr.
iilf. It' 8iirri)nn(ied by
ea, and cniise it to rise
; is again covered with
ere is a sufficient biiso
li grass, will no lonf(cr
k, (fee. Trustees of tlio
iidniark well known to
I part of the coast, will
of it, and lie unat)lc to
on come to the fishing
I^reek is a small branch
, on it; and it then de.
the creek now scarcely
;, and now i)rinci|)ally
\ is nearly parallel with
It the hills of Province,
ead of the creek, with
hore on the harbor, in
It is high wafer at Tru.
out's Creek, but it was
)t where no beach grass
of the chimney brought
event took place about
lable that the whole of
e shore a few rods only
jvent any accident from
ired the attention of se-
liomas Smalley, of Pro-
.vith straw or hay in the
when necessary. The
twice or thrice a year ;
"or his activity and be-
lich lies on both sides,
rrow beach separates
led, as there are on ii
tout much difliculty be
g the night, the beach
W. to S. E. and is in
livities next the river.
ssnge into a valley in
or south, is a few rods
>ly the part of the coast
iiial to se men, as it is
nt sets a.ong the shore :
ork to the northward,
the wind dri\es theiu
heie covered with the
have been thought ne-
sed to pay due respect,
!rc for the relief of the
it the high land coni-
m?e, which contains a
ere turns to the south;
approaches the ocean
n a storm. In viov
ndering it then unsal'e
seaman succeed in his
ouses are generally so
on to the valleys, by
hollows, 'run at right
ads from the dwelling*
The first of these valleys is Dyer's Hollow, IJ ihile from the lighthouse. It is a wide opening, I.e-
ing 2<M) rods broad, from summit to summit. In it stands a dwelling-house, a ({uarter of a mile from
tho liench.
A mile and a half south of Dyer's Hollow is a second valley, called Harding's Hollow. At tho
entrance of this valley the sand has tratliered, so that at present a little climbing is necessary. Pass-
ing ov(;r several fences, and taking herd not to enter the wood on the riglii hand, at the distance of v^
three (piarte.-s of a mile a house is to liu found. This hous(! stands on the south side of the rtiad ;
and iiDi far t'rom it, on the south, i.« I'aniet River, which runs from east to west through a body of
salt niurslu
The third valley, half a mile south of Harding's Hollow, is head of Pamet Hollow. It may with
case be distinguished from the other hollows mentioned, as it is a wide opetiing, and leads imme-
diately over a beach to the salt marsh at the head of Pamet River. In the m stof the hollow the
Fand has been raised by a briL^h fence, carried across it from north to south, i'his muut be passed,
and the shipwrecked mariner will soon come to a fence v hich separates what is called the road
from the marsh. If he turns to the left hand, or south, at the distance of a quarter of a mile, he will
discover a house. If he turns to the right hand, at the distance of half a mile, he will find the aarae
house which is mentioned in the foregoing paragraph.
The fourth opening, three quarters of a mile south of Head of Pamet is Brushy Valley. This
hollow is narrow, and climbing is necessary. Entering it, and inchning to the right, three quar-
ters of a mile will bring seamen to the house, which is situated at the head of Pamet. By proceed.
ing straight forward, and passing over rising ground, another house "may be diBCOvered* but with
more difliculty. ^ -. .
These three hollows, lying near together, serve to designa^ f jCh otl*r. Either of theo^ay be '
used ; but Head of Pamet Hollow is the safest. 'm---' iL '.■.•-'
South of Brush Valley, at the distance of .3 tniles, there is af fi^h.opening, caUed Nevi^soml^. Hol-
low, cast of the head of HerrinirRivtrin Welltleet. Tliiu valley is a quarter of a mile ^iw$> Olllthe
north side of it, near the shore, stands a fishing lint.
Between the two last valleys the bank is very high and steep. From the edge of it, ytetst, thtteis
a strip of sand, 100 yards in breadth. Then succeeds low brush-wood, a quarter of a mile in .vHdtht
and almost impassable. After which comes a thick, perplexing forest, in which not a hoiue^is to
be discovered. Seamen, therefore, though the distance between these two valleys is grfat, ilrast
not attempt to enter the wood, as in a snow storm they wOuld undoubtedly perish. Thi^ plaee, bo
formidable in description, will however lose somewhat of its terror, when it is observed, tihiat no in-
stance of a shipwreck on this jiart of the coast is recollected by the oldest inhabitants of \wjifeet. '
Half a mile south of Ne wcomb's Hollow, is the sixth valley, callpd Pearce's Hodow. I$u' ■ fii^all
valley. A house stands at the distance of a little more than a quarter of a mile from the IfMACli^ W.
The seventh valley is Cohoon's Hollow, half a mile south of Pearce'tflSollcw. It is iigB|||r9idei
West from the entrance, several houses may be found at the distance of a mile. l^m^Hwir liM
E. by N. from Welltleet Meeting-house. JBBBIfe.
Two miles south of Cohoon's Hollow, the eighth valliev is Snow's Hollow. It is HJPWwHfatf ,
the last. West from the shore, at the distance of a quarter of a mile, is the county road, '#liMi'^4|iL~ -
round the head of Ulackfish Creek. Passing through this yalley to the fence, which separatee t^
road from the upland and marsh at the head of the creek, a house will immediately be fouiil^by turn-
ing to the right hand or north. There are houses also on the left, but mor3 remote.
The high land gradually subsides here, and IJ mile south terminates at the ninth vi
Fresh Brook Hollow, in which a house is to be found a mile from the shore, west.
Tlie tenth, 2^ miles south from Fresh Brook Hollow, is Plumb Valley, about 300 jc^rds wide.
West is a house, three quarters of a mile distant. Between these two vqiUeys is the table land.
After this there is no hollow of ini[)Ortance to Cape Malebarre.
From Fresh Brook IIollov.-, to the commencement of Nausett Beach, the bank nv^ th# ocean ia
about 60 feet high. There are houses scattered over the plain, open country; tut none of them
are nearer than a mile to the shore. In a storm of wind and rain they might be discerned by day.
light; but in a snow storm, which rages here with excessive fury, it would be almos^iihpossible to
discover them, either by night or by day. ' ■
Not far from this shore, south, the 'i'rustecs have erected a third hut, ori Nausett Beach. Nausett
Beach begins in latitude 41*^ .51', and cxKmds south to latitude 41° 41', Iwis divided into two parts
by a breach which the ocean has made through it. This breach is the mouth of Nausett or Stage
Harbor; and from the opeiiing the beach extends north 2:J miles, till it joins the main land. It is
about a furlong wide, and forms Nausett Harbor, which is of htile value, its entrance being obstruct-
ed by a bar. This northern part of the beach may be distinguished from the southern part by its
being of a less regular form. Storms have made frequent irruptidns through the ridg<Q^ on which
beach grass grows. On an el ;vated part of the beach stands the hut, about 1^ mile north of the
mouth of Nausett Harbor. Eastham Meeting-house lies from it W. S. W. distant 1| mile. The
meeting-house is without a steeple ; but it may be distinguished from the dwelling-houses near it by
its situation, which is between two small groves of locusts, one on the south, and one on the north,
that on the south being three times as long as the other. About \\ mile from the hut, W. by N., api-
pear the top and arms of a wind-mill. The Rev. Mr. Shaw, and Elisha Mayo, Edq. of Eastham,
have engaged to inspect this building.
The southern part of Nause't Beach, most commonly called Chatham Beach, and by a few per-
sons Potanumaqunt Beach, begins at the mouth of Nausett Harbor, and extends 8 or 9 miiqa aottlb
■*4r
182
BLUNTS AMERICAN COA.«T I'lLOT.
to the inouili of Clmlhnin Iliirhor. It is nhoiit TiO rods wide. A retiulnr well formed ridffc, which,
in'ihe must elevated part of it, is 40fe<!t hi^jh, runs iho wiiolc |i>ii>,'ih of it, iind vvitli tho (ixccjitiim of
a few sjioiH, ie covered wilii lieaeh jjrass. This lieaeli forms the harrier ot'Cliulhaiii llurhor, which,
from Strong Island, north, receives the luinie of Pleasant liny. A mile south of tiic entrance of
Nausctt Harbor, it joins ihc main land oft >rleans, exeejit in very hixh tides, when the sea (lows from
the north-eastern arm of rieasaMt May into the harlior of Naii.jeK, completely insulating ilie lieaeh.
By those who are acquainted with the shallow, it may lie sat'ely forded at any time ; but stran^^'cra
nmst not venture to pass it wlam eoveri'd with water, as below the channel is 7 feetdci'p. On thia
h'juch about halfway between ihe ciiiranee of Nausett and C^lmtliam Harbors, the Trustees have
erected a fourth hut. The sj)ot seleeied is a narrow pari of the beach : on the west the water ad-
joining it is called Bass Hole. Salt Marsh is north and south of it, next tlie beach, but is here in.
terrupted. Orleans meeting-house lies from it N. W. The inretint.'-house is without a steeple,
and is not seen; but it is very near a wind. mill placed on nn elcvatxl ground, a cons|)icuoiis ob-
ject to seamen coming on the coast. It may be iieci'ssary to ndd, that there nre three wind. mills in
Orieans, fomikiys a semi-circle- -that the mili referred to is on the rmht hand, orN. E. |)oint — and
that dw mill la the middle point of the semi-circle siandf on still higher ground. Tliu Meeting-house
of Gliathaio fti situated from it S. W. This nu'pting-house is idso without a steejile, and is con-
cealed l)y'Orea( Hill, a noted land-mnrk. The hill appears with two summits, which are a (puirter
of a mile apart. The hut lies east from Sampson's Island, in Pleasant Bay. Timothy liascom, of
Orleans, has undertaken to inspect this liut.
Leat neamen shoJbld miss this hut, by striking to the leeward of it, the Trustees have erected an-
other 0»|^the same beach. It stands a mile north of the mouth ol' Chatham Harbor, east of tho
meetiB|f.hbase, and opposite the tow n.
AowUK' spot on the same beach would be a iirojicr situation for a hut. It is north of the fourth
hut, jraliMttff the middle of Pochet Island. The highest part of the ridge is nearer it south. A
brvjtpWTtae rid^e, over which the sea appears sometimes to have How ( d, divides this high jiart from
thjcrrlftitnhern portion of the beach.
.'0|k'tne beach of Cape Malebarrp, or the sandy point of Chatham, the Trustees have built a sixth
*Wt;^tJ'^8 ^^*ch stretches from Chatham 10 miles into the sea, towards Nantucket, and is from a
■ tpxnimt'^o three quarters of a mile in bren.dth. It is contiimally gaining south : above three miles
nv^been added to it during the past 50 years. On the east side of the beach is a curve in the
diore called Stewart's Bend, where vessels may anchor with safety, in 3 or 4 fathoms water, when
, ,dM wind blowB from north to S. W, North of the bend there are several bars and shoals. A
wAb beh^y the middle of the beach, on the west side, is Wreck Cove, which is navigable for boats
■Qf^ i-1nlp '*'•* stands 200 yards from the ocean, S. E. from the entrance of Wreck Cove, half of
itween the mouth of the cove and hut, is Stewart's Knoll, an elevated part of the beach.
of the hut from the commencement of the beach is G miles, and from its termination
reai Hill, in Chatham, bears N. by W. distant G miles, and the south end of Morris'
in on the west side of the' beach, N. by E. distant 4 miles. Richard Sears, Esq. of
i^ engaged to visit Mke- two last mentioned huts. Two miles below the sixth hut is a
I'ibnilt of thatch, in the form of a wigwam. It stands on the west side of the bea ;h, a
from Ihe ocean. Annually, in September, it is renewed ; and generally remains in
rvation during the winter.
r^kpot a few- rods from the sea, 4 miles south from the commencement of the beach, and
m^ north of the head of wieck Cove, would be a proper situation for a hut. A little south
^thin '(^ in storms and very high tides, the sea breaks over from the ocean into Wreck Cove.
Cape Malebarre Beach may be distinguished from the two beaches before described, not only by
itt greater breadth, but also by its being of a less regular form. It is not so well covered with
gnma t» Chatham Beach. From Stewart's Knoll, south to the extremity, it is lowest in the middle.
Ib thistalley, and in other low places, fresh water may be obtained by digging two feet into the
eand. The same thing is true of Nausett and Chatham Beaches.
Tho six hutfl, the situation of which has thus been pointed out, are all of one size and shape.
Each hut stands on piles, is 8 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 7 feet high : a sliding door is on the south,
a Sliding shutter on the west, and a pole, rising 15 feet above the top of the building, on the east.
Within, it is supplied either with straw or hay, and is farther accommodated with a bench. The
whole of tb^ coast, from Cape Cod to Cape Malebarre, is sandy, and fiic from rocks. Along the
shore,*at th^. distance of haj^f a mile, is a bar which is called the Outer Bar; because there are
smaller bars within it perpetufiUy varying. This outer bar is separated into many parts by guzzles,
or small channels. It <s.j^nds'to ChatJiam; and as it proceeds southward, gradually approaches
the shore, and ^rows lA'ore shallow. Its general depth at high water is two fathoms, and three
i^thomao)^ the giisfzleS; and 'its least distance from the shore is about a furlong. Off the mouth
t^h&(hJllti'!>Ilarboytfaere are bars which reach three quarters of a mile, and off the entrance of
i^rbor the Gars extend half a mile. Large heavy ships strike on the outer bar, even at
ler, and their fragments only reach the shore. But smaller vessels pass over it at full sea,
itU^whMh they touch at low water, they beat over it as the tide rises, and soon come to land. If a
veuel is cast away at low; water, it ought to be left with as much expedition as possible ; because
the fiiry of the waves is then checked, in some measure, by the bar, and because the vessel is gene-
■■ ralljr broken to pieces by the rising flood. But seamen shipwrecked at full sea, ought to remain on
board till near low water, for the vessel does not then break to pieces, and by attempting to reach
« dwland before the tide ebbs away, they are in great danger of being drowned. On this subject
' thetie is one opinion only among judicious marint^rs. It may be necessary, however, to remind
juSmv*
-:'^:pv;-r>
■MiaHi
MM
liMH
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
183
thrm of n triiili, nf whirh tluy have full conviction, but which, amidst ths ogitaiion and terror o^ a
Btonii, tiiey too treiiiii'iitly t'oigct.
*POINT GAMMON LIGHT, AND tllYANNKS IIARIJOU.— V^essels coming
from tht) «!;istwar(l, bound tlirouj;h the North (Jhaniiel, must leavr the Bishop and Clerks
on the liirl)oanl hand, and not iio nearer tliem than 4 fathoms. 'J'liey are a dangerous.
ledi;e of rocks, hcaiiiii; S. hy K. I'roiii the lighthouse, ;! miles distant, and are always dry.
Wlien the lijrht bears N. by W. steer \V, N. VV., keepim; in 4 fathoms, till the light
bears N. N. K. ; then steer N. \V. or N. \V. by N., keepins; in 3 fathoms, which will
keep you clear of a daui^erous reef running from the light to a great rock which you.
leave on your starboard hand ; when abreast of this rock, the light will bear S. E. ^ E. ;
then steer N. N. W. and anchor within one mile of the shore, in 3 fathoms, soft bottom.
The brig Monroe, C;apt. l>ears, in coming througli the VinevarU Sound, struck on a
dangerous rock, which is in the direct track in passing the North Channel, and bear».
about W. S. W. from Point Gauuuon Lighthouse, distant two or three miles. It is a
large s(|uare rock, and it is supposed there are on it about tliree feet of water, at low
water. Several vessels have struck on it at did'erent times, and it is extremely important
to the safety of people and ])n)|)erty, that it should have a buoy on it. Vessels should
not come nearer than three (|narters of a mile of the light, as there are sunken rocks that
lie one half a mile from the land. »*»>
Vessels bound to the westward from Ilyannes, must run to the southward till the
light l)ears E. by N. ; then steer W. by S. which eoiir^c will carry them clear <)f the-
southwest rock, which bears west from the light, 4 miles distant, with several sunkea
rocks near it ; said rock is dry at low water. W, ^ S. 8 miles distant from the li§lit, is •
a dangerous ledge called Cidler's Ledge, 3 miles from the shore. There are 3i^fatl/oms
water round it, and the ledge is ])art dry at low water. In running this W. by S. course,
(the light bearing K. by N.) you will have from 3 to 4 fathoms, and sometimes 5, as it
is ridgy. If farther towards the llorse-shoe, to the southward, you will have 4, ,0, 6, 7,
10, and close to the Horseshoe, i:{ fathoms : northern part ';I' the Horse-shoe, dry ajt
low water. On the S. E. part of the Horse-shoe is a black buoy placed, in 16 feet wa-
ter, bearing from Nantiuket Light N. \V. by W. 4| ieagues, and from Tuckanuck Isl-
and, N. by E. t; E. 5 leaaues. Tide rises about 5 feet ; high water at full and chai)|ge,
at 1'2 o'clock ; and runs IVou^ 2 to .'! knots east and west in the following manner, viti. it::-
begiils to rim to the westward at lialf llood, and contiimes to half ebb, thea runs to ihft
eastward, the three last hours of ebb, and three fir.st of flood. ' ^ *<>
A (Innting light h;vs been anchored on the eastern extremity of T^ckantlj
(wliirli lies between Capo J'oge and Tuckanuck Islaji«^ and the foUoi
taken from the vessel : • . ». * ^ ,*
Point Ciammon Lighthouse bears N. ; Chatham Light, N. E.; Sandy PoiiftXitjt
N. E.by E.; Nantucket Great Point Light, E. S. E. ; Nantucket Brand! Poiittln^tM
E. S. E. I E. ; Nantucket iieacon Light, S. S. E. ; Cape Poge Light, W. by^, j ««»- '
fre of Tuckanuck Island, S. S. W. ,V W. distant 7 miles.
b\ proceeding from the Horse-shoe towards Holmes' Hole, observe the following di-
rections, vi/,. : When to the northward of the Horse-shoe, in 12 fathoms water, one4tiii(^(
distant from the dry spots, at low water, steer S. W. for Holmes' Hole, 3^ leagiu^ dis-'"^^
tant. If bound to the northward of the Hedge Fence, (between that and Lctttedu^
Shoal,) get tiie point on wliich the wind-mill stands, (which is east of Wood's'llolej)
to bear W. by N.. and run for it till within half a mile; then W. S. W. will cany you
through the Vineyard Sound, leaving Tarpaulin Cov« and Cutterhunk Lights on your
starboard hand, and (lay Head Light on your larboard hand. You will not see Cutter-
hunk Light till 4 leagues to the westward of Tarpaulin Cove Light, when it will opeft
on the starboard liand ; when it bears N. E. by E. distant 3^ miles, you may rup west
for Point Judith Light, (if boimd u)) the Sound,) 10 leagues distant.
CAPE COD TO tllOLMES' HOLE.— Bring Chatham Lights to bear N. N. W.
then by steering S. S. E. 3^ leagues, you will pass, the Pollock Rip, in 3 or 4 fathoms;
i-,
-*--
* Hyannc'g Light is situated on Point Gammon, at the entrance of the harbor, south sido of 6bp«f
Cod. The lantern is elevated 70 feet above the level of the sea, and contains a fixed light.. .. ^ ',-
+ East from Hyanncs lie.? Bass River, near which arc the towns of Dennis and Yarmouth, bo.
twcen wliicli a larj^e pier has I)cen erected, which has washed away. A buoy is placed on Dog^
fish Bar. A beacon, (or rather a large stick,) on the top of which is a small cask^ is also stuck uPi
on the Bishop and Clerks.
t Holmes' Ilote is a harbor to which vessels resort during the winter season, and'ftf; every master* J
should embrace the first opportunity to advise his owner, we state there is a Post.OffijiS ai^^ rego.
l/u mail made up twice a week for Boston, <Stc. wltich is taken ia a passage boat trt"#itl!^iijHj(^li, qj^.
184
nLr\T u Aurr.RicAiv coaht pilot.
l\-
water; and if tlin weather is clear yon will make the •lin;h(li'tU3P on Sandy Point (N'an-
tnrket Isliiiid) '),' IcJiiies distant, wiiicli liiiiii^ to linir S. W. ,', W. ; thru .steer I'of the
lighthouse, keepiiiiT it in this direiiioii, and yon will |i;iss lietwern tlie (ireat and ijitljo
Koiind !Sh(ud.-', oti the fDrnirr of which is a flilark linoy, and on tlie latter a white liiioy,
with a Ainall pcdc ih llir end ol it, hearing i\. W. i)y N. and S. K. Iiy S. Iroiii eaeli oilier,
distant SJ miles. Ureal Koliiid Shoal, partly dry at low water; on liittle Round Shoal
7 feet. »
On the cast end of Poiloi k Kip i« a red hiiny, in 14 feet water, ln'arinij from Chatham
Lights 8. ^ E. 11 miles; I'roni tMonomoy Point K. ;} N. 7 miles, iuxl .'"roni Liltlo
Round Shoal buoy, N. K. hy N. 1 miles. Showiest water on this rip, Sleet.
Whenyou are within ahont three miliis of the liiihthoiise, steer W. }, S. nntil ynii are
past the Point Rip, on the N. K. end of whirli is ;i red liiioy in I I feet water, hearing; from
Sancoty Head, N. hy W.*4 leagues ; fnmi Nimtiieket l/l^ht X. K. Iiy K. J K. 2 miles, and
from the black buoy on the lloise-shoe, K. S. K. (> leaiiiies. .Showiest water on Point
Rip 8 feet; or you may hrini; tlie linhlhonse to hear K. hy S. '; S. and steer W. Iiy N.
^ Nt taking care to make your course nooil for llnlnirs' Hole f/i^rlit, 11 lea^^ucs distant,
observing, while runnin^frcun Naiitueket Liuhi to llohnis' Ihde, you leave on your lar-
boiird hand §Cape Poge Li^hl, which must hear \V. ,' S. to clear the Cross Rip, on the
north'fast parfof which is a white huoy, in lo feet water, lieariiii; from ( 'apr Po;;e Li^ht
£. by S. 5 leagues; froni Tgckanuek island N. hy W. v.' leagues; and from the red luioy
on Sqtiash MeadoWi^E. by S. ■/ S. !i la^ues. Shoalest water on this rip, I'i feet.
To go through the North Ship Cfianml, hriiiu Chatham Liuhts to hear N. N.W, and
9t«9t S^ S. E. 3^ leaguqis, when you wil) pass the Pollock Kip in :{ or l fathoms water, when
hi' y*"* tniist 8teer"W. \ S. 5 iiciles for llutler's I lole, in 15 fitlioms water, when you will s»'i'
''**'^j|i wbite buoy to the north of you, which lies in the S. S. W. passaj;!', whenytui must run
W. S. W. U)r the south pjirt of the Handkerchief, whicli has a white huoy on th«^ west
end of it, bearing from Monornoy Point Li^lit S. W. 'J miles, when you will he in :\ fatli-
,'»'^ni|l water, fine sand; from Nantucket Jji^ht N. hy K. ,', E. l leai;ues, and from the red
*V^*r|)n Pollock Rin W. hyS. ^ S. ;} lea-nes.
ij C^itMsing the Handkerchief, on a \V. S. W. course, in .'] or 4 fathoms water, you will
W. for the black buoy on the'Horse-shoe, 11} miles, leaviiit; it on the starboard hand,
111 you will continue your course W. for n(dmes' Hole Li;;lit, 4.j leaijues di>lant. —
^ti enter the Swash, in the Horsc'-shoe, Hyamies Li^^jht will hear N. N. E. (Jape Po;;e
* W. S. W. Holmes' Hole lught, \V. Part of the Handkerchief dry at low water.
i»a channel of 9 feet, still north of tlie above, which may he found hy hriiiijint;
t^ights fo bear^jtW- whew in 7 fathoms, and running S. S. W. for Sandy
onioy JL"igi^t,jj[|jy|?te' light hears S. \V. then run for it till you cross from 3
wfieu you will 'JWBiffiin 3 caldes' leiii^tli of the liiiht, where you may anchor
iini'0 till 2j hourir floods wlien, if hoiuid to the westwanl, continue tlie shore on
itand the point, crossiugaspit between Km; Island and Montunoy Point, in -J latli-
n steer N. W. till the lignt bears E. when you must run VV. N. W. for IJyan-
t, or haul into Stage Hatbor Bay and anchor.
;TfM_
•lh& N. E. part of the Vineyard Sound, "9 miles distnnt ; from thfiice hy land carriage to Sarulwich,.
fee. Passengers wilf -find a speedy canveyanco fioin Falinoutli. A iiylithouso, showing' ii fixed
Ught, iserec'^di oh the WcstChop of ilolmcs' ILilo, on the starlioard hand as you enter the liarlior.
Four miles westtof B'almouth is Jfob^ue Point, on wliicli a liL^Iulioiise is erected, showin'^' a li^eil
fight, elevated 80 feet above the 's'aa.' It is intended to yiiide vessels passin',' over the slioala,
tJ»«'ougij tl^ north channel ill to the Vineyard Sound. Tiic I'.illowiiiir lioarings have been taken : —
''"Wetit Chop -Lighthoijise, S. J|.'^' S. distant 4 miles; east end of Middle Groimd, S. E. | S. 3.1 ;
' west end of d*iS. W» by S.'4'; Gay Head Lii.'litJMU.ie, S. W J VV. 15 ; Tamaniin Cove Li^'in-
housc, W. S. liiV*' 6; Kahnouth Wharf, N. E. by E. 3 ; Sucaiimi Set Point, E. J N. 7 ; S. W. imr'
of the IledgciFence, j&,S. E. 4 ; Cape Pogc Liirhdiou.se. S. E. i E. 14; East Chop Holmes' Hole,
S. E. 6. ByHkeepihg me Nobsque Light open, by the East Ciiop of Holmes' Hole, will clear ihu
Old Town Flats.
• • Nantucket Lighthouse is on the north point of Nanfuekct Island, and shows a fixed light, cle-
r^ .»ftted 70 feet above the sea, and can be seen far as any one on the coast.
t The buoys on Nantucket Shoals and the Vineyard Sound, were placed by Capt. Trevett, in the
Revenue Cutter, and Win. Daggci, Branch Pilot for the Vineyard Shoals, and from their authority
^T»9^^li8h them.
t ol^Monomoy Poinrt fixed light is erected, elevated 25 feet above the sea, on what wa.s the
extreinei southern point of Cape Cod, but within a few years the sea has broken through this sand
beach aoOut Smiles from tlic jioint, and 3 from the main land, making it an island. The channel
thaa made is deep enough for small craft to pass, at high water, and is nearly half a mile wide.
„ ' .'ijjfjPape'Poge Ijghtis situated on the N. E. point of Martha's Vineyard. Tho lantern is elevated
i^ fBet above the level of the sea, and coatalns a ii:ced hght>
" ' — - ' i.»»i)»ll*j»il»lM«»«m».«i
MiaMMMMII
■IS^gK"*
n Sandy Point (Nnn-
'.; tliiMi .sH'cr for ili«i
I tlif (iri'iit iMid Littin
(• liittiT a white liiioy,
y S. liiiMi carli (itln-r,
I [iittli; Rouiiii Slioal
•ariiin from (.'lialliam
iloH, anil fnnii Littin
•i|), 5 fret.
\V. }, S. until ymi aro
•t water, hearing' Cnini
y K. j K. 2 miles, and
•alest water on I'oint
. and steer \V. hy N.
If, 1 1 leajjncs distant,
'Oil leave on your lar-
lie Cross Ui|), oti the
)ni (^ape l'oj;e Liirln
nd I'nnn I he red huoy
is rip, !•.> feet,
to hear N.N. \V. and
t lathoms water, when
ler, wiien you will see
', wiien you must run
lite huoy on tlie west
I you will he in .'. lalli-
ues, and I'roni tiie riul
horns water, you will
)n thestarhoard hand,
4^ leamies distant. —
rN.N.K.Cape |Niir«>
liief dry at low water,
he (bund hy hrin^iii;;
S. S. W. for Siuidy
till you cross from 'A
here you may anchor
oiitinue the shore on
luioy Point, in -J fath-
^V^. N. W. fur ijyan-
1 carriajTe to Sandwich^
.house, slinwinH- u fixed
IS you enter tiie iiarhor.
■ectod, sliowinsj a lixeii
psin',' over the slioals,
gs liave been taken : —
roiuid, S. E. I S. 3i ;
Tuninulin Gt)ve Li^'iu-
E. |N- 7; S. W. imrr
ist Clio;) Holmes' Hule,
cs' Hole, will clear thu
diowa a fixed light, cle-
ty Cnpt. Trevett, in the
nd from their authority
sea, on what was the
uken throuRli this sand
1 island. The channel
y half a mile wide.
The lantera is elcvalect
fe
■ V.
^fy.
^mittAi>»mu%Limtiimt»!M
K
III.UNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
185
OLD S'r,\(IK llAUIiOll. — Ilyou irit»Miil, when pni*<<inK Mononioy Point to make t
h»rl>i)r, wlmii ulioiit lll(( \iir(ln went Itoin ttip I'oiiit, Nt»'»'r N. N. W. In'm .'i m (i inileH to
avoid lh(* coiiiiiiuii l''l:i( wliiili iiiakei oil' I'loiii th(> l)«-;t(-li, then mrvr K. N. K. \i milea,
uliK-li will hriiijj yoii to iiiK-lioniKr, in Iroin .'i to ft laihoinN, ({ooii liulilint; grouD(|« Thit
harbor is rxpoHt'tJ to winds iVoiii Soutli to WcHt l»y North.
Mononioy i'ltint hintrt t'roni tlit' ancliora^e South, dlNtaiit iil)oiit 8 milflti'
To ^o through iIih S. S. VV. (Iianiifl, avt Mononioy INiiiit Iji^ht to bear N. by E. ^ £•
and run S. S. \V. [\ iiiilf, into IJiitli-r"!* Ilolf, in 7 t'alhoniH and a S. 8. W. coume con-
tinued will carry you to th*; wetttward id' Nantucket Point Light, 5 leiguei. Id the S.
J!>. W. clianind, aii', •«• t'athonis at Cull tide.
[N'oTK. — W'hilt' pnusiiiK ('hathatii in thick weather, a|)))roa<rh no nearer thtin 6 fath-
oms to croMH till' I'oliock Kip; cdi^e oil and on iVoiii f) tu 7 fathoms, which will carrjT
yon over the Pollock Hip in .'t fathoinn.]
iiriiii; ('hathaiii Lights to hear N. hy VV. on which b«arin); keep them till yon croM
the Pollock Kip in .'t laihomH water, and deepen into 7 fathutnn; then steer 8. W. bv 9»
which carriuN you acroHs Kutlcr'i Hole to fi or 4 fathoms ; then steer W. St W. wnicli
will carry yuu to the northward of the Little Koiind Shoal up to Tnckanook Chdondt
when you will be up with the S. K. end of the liorse-s^hne, where you have 9 fcthom*;
then r4teer W. by N. for Cajte Po}»e Lii^ht. Kroni th« Stono-horse, to" thft S. £. end of
the Morse-shoe, tlie distance is .'j or h lea(;ues. To ^a through the Mc flke«k«C| ^^sw
nel, briiif; the linht on Cape Poy;e to bear N. by W. anfl steer S. by £., which willtirff
you to the eastward of .'^kilf's Island, which you may go within half a mile of.
To fin ihrou^'h the Swash of the Horse-shoe, bound to the westwifj, after p<uaint th«
Stone-horse, and you dee])en your water to (> fathums, steer W. till you bring Cap*
PoL'o Lii^ht to bear W. S. W. ; then steer directly (or it through the Swash of to*
H()rse-.shoe, till yuu deepen twelve fathoms; then steer for the East Chop of HoIoIm'
Hole.
To go to the northward of tlie Horse-shoe, bring Point Gammon Light to bear JSi^H^
]']. ; Seconset Point to bear \V. N. W., when yod will see the northernmost dry shoal of
the Horse-shoe, liring Cape Pogc l^iglit to bear S. S. W. and run for it. In beating
to windward, come no nearer the north shore than 3 fathotns ; when past the dry iq^t (^
the Horse-shoe, steer S. W. by S. till you i)ring the East Chop to bear W. ,y-k^
To <io througii the South Ship Channel, steer from Chatham Lights S. B.''M- wnHI i^' -ja
you pas.s the Pollock Ki|) in 3 or 4 fathoms water ; if the weather be clear, you wB mMk^^ -.'J
Nantucket (treat Point fjiaht; continue your course S. S. E«. S. by E', and S. nnrifijM^ '-^
liiihthouse bears W. from you: thfni steer directly for it, until you are within 3 mile#'4f^ ■»> '.)
it ; you should then steer N. \V. until the lighthouse bears S. W. by W. ; then|te«r^~"
by S. till the lighthouse i)ears K. by .S. k S., and then run W. by N. ^ N.,
course good for Holmes' Hole Liglit, as before directed, when, ifyoa wilftlt
run S. \V. till the light bears N. W. by N., and anchor in 4 and 5 fatkMia|Jif''
mud, and out of the tide. '
•CHATHAM HARliOR.— Chatham is situated on the exterior citirMnfr
Cod, bounded E. by the ocean, S. by Vineyard Sound, W. by Harwieft, atf<l'
Pleasant Bay. Its Harbor is convenient for the fishery, in which they have vM
vessels employed, and contains 20 feet at low water. The place is remai%oble Ufti
shipwrecks on its shores.
Tn)ES.— On the South Shoal the flood tide sets north about 3 honrs; then B.''8l
K., when the ebb commences at south, and continues till low water. At SaQcoty-tl^wi^ .
the flood sets N. E. and ebb S. W. In the middle (or £. N. £. channel) the^ flottl •ffitt'
N. E. by E. and ebb S. W. by W. ;.
In Butler's Hole the ebb sets west, and flood east. From Chathap^ta Polloek Mipt-
the flood sets S. S. W. and ebb N. N. E. 4 , tH
From Butler's Hole to the Horse-shoe, ebb W. S. W.; then W. hy N. to Hols^
Hole.
The depth of water on Nantucket Shoal and the Vineyard Sound, aro taken at lo*- j3
tide. At Pollock Rip, Great Rip, Little Round Shoal, Point Rip and the Haxt^txeUtfifj.^^^
Vii
^r
*
* There nre two fixed lights at Chatham, on James* Head, about 70 feet above tS©eea,-^0-i
apart, and may be seen 5 or 6 leagues distant, Chatlium being a barred hapborj aad fNiqB0n(j
shifting, two lights were erected for the purpose of mooring, as the bar changed, to wrUf^ mT
ing.mark over the bar, into the harbor : but the beach has made out three or more ttV^f
rendering the lights entirely useless as harbor lights, the original purpose of their oilll
bear from Nantucket Lighthouse N. N. E., distant lOJ leagues, and from the aUi
These lights are said to be of some use to vessels hound over Nantucket Shoals.
34 ■ . - '•■«■..'
V .-^
186
BLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
the tide rises and falls 5 to 6 feet. At the Horse-shoe, ♦Cross Rip, Hedge Fence,
Squash jMeadow and Middle Ground, the tide rises and falls 3 to 4 fefet. S. ^ E, moon
makes full sea in the Sound.
NANTUCKET HARBOR.— If the fLighthouse on the south side of the harbor
cannot be seen, bring the light on Brant Point, (which lies on the starboard hand and
shows a fi>-?d light) to bear S. by E. (none to the south of that) and run for it till within
about a cable's length; then run to the eastward for the end of the jjoint, and pass it as
near as you please.
Nantucket Bar.-— It is understood that a new channel over this dangerous shoal has
been explored and buoyed out, by some of our enterprising master mariners and pilots;
and that the keeper of the lighthouse on the south side of the harbor, having been waited
upon by them, and several of the principal merchants and ship owners, has caused the
removal of the lighthouse under his care to a point designated. As this new channel is
4eclared by the pilots to be considerably deeper than that'fonnerly used, and has the ad-
1^ vantage of being straight and easy of access, the public good is greatly subserved by an
alteration which will facilitate its use ; and which has been made, we understand, with-
out any additional exp^ense to the United States.
Directions for ships bound oVer the Shoais of \anlucket,from the Bar. — From Nantucket
Bar, the course is about N. N. E. to the (treat Point ; if a west tide, run for the light-
house, pass the Great Point, keeping it about two miles distant from you ; an east tide
may setvpu on the Point Rip. Keep the town open, clear of Great Point, until you are
three i^ea.to the N. NitE. of the point ; then run S. E. keeping three miles from the
land, amil the light is wesufrom you ; then running east, keeping the lighthouse bear-
ing wesU will carry you to sea. \X^hen you are in 2b fathoms, you are without the
Great Rip., If a light wind, and a southern tide, there is danger of being set by the
tide too near the Rip ; therefore it is best, after being sure that you are without the
Round Shoal, to run E. by N^ or E. N. E., according to the wind and tide. When
you have passed the Round.' Shoal, there is nothing to fear, from N. to E, until you
come to the State of Maine, en the one hand, or the shoal of George's on the other.
Do not cross George's Bank north of lat. 4P N. The above is the Old Channel-way.
After .you are three miles N. N.- E. from the Great Point Light, run S. E., keep-
ing three miles from the land, until Sancoty Head bears S. W. ; you may then run N.
£. which will carry you channel-way. The Round Shoal bears from the Great Point
Light, E. N. £. eight miles off.
When you are three miles to the N. N. E. of the Great Point Light, with the town
^open clear of the Poidf, tUn S. E., keeping three miles from the laud, until the town is
aver the middle of the. he'ad of the harbor; keeping it so, will carry you out channel-
:,town isi shut.Aifejjrthe highland of Pocomo or Squam, you are in danger
IfaiS^'bndof theBus^^y^also the north end of the Great Rip.
is tide lutns at the fodtwf me Shoals, three hours before it is high water at the bar.
'•^breast of the Great Rip, the ebb tide set-to the S. S. W. and the flood to the N. N. E. ;
l^tffWire it is neeeSHvy, in light winds, to be careful that you do not get set by the
^im en the Rip. '*
The Fishing Rip bears {(bout E. S. E. from the Great Rip, from five to seven leagues
dflltaat.. It has been said by many* experienced men, that there are but 2^ fathoms on
thtf shbafieBt patt of the Great Rip. From the Great Point Light to the Great Rip, is
JB.-^^by^S. I S.'S|< leagues distant ; the Fishing Rip is from 10 to 12 leagues distant from
' ♦ Near the nor^^nd of CrOBS Rip, a floating light is moored in 7 fathoms .water ; 200 fathoms
" j|6uthof the ligh^'are 11 feet water. Bsjng Nantucket Light to bear E. S. E.,"and run W.N.W.
^tvilicwfy a vessel to the Light Boat, and thence to Holmes' Hole. •
Bearings and Distances from the Nuntucket Jjght Boat.
•Nantucket Great Point Light E. S. E 14 miles.
N. E. end Tuckanuck Shoal S. E. ^ E 4 do.
Tuctomuck Island S. i E 8 .:.j.
Ca^Poge Light.... W. i S 10 do.
East Chop Holmes' Hole W. by N. iN...16 do.
Point Gammon Light N. ^ E 12 do.
Msin body of Horse-shoe....^ N 1^ do.
, t
t9B<
Nintocket Harbor Lighthouse ia on the south side of the harbor, on high ground, some dis.
iirotn the shore, is a small pyramidical building, and contains a fixcl light Its only use is to
Wcsbels entering the harbor, to pass the bar.
*G
prom-,
iriO
Th,
lors ol
Til
disian
thcv II
N.E.
from t
traiirc
about
West
is nbov
two th
sides
li?lit b
3i len;
ibt^use,
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
187
), Hedge Fence,
. S. I E. moon
de of the harbor
rboard hand and
I lor it till withiu
at, and pass it as
f»erou3 shoal has
■Tners and pilots ;
aving been waited
s, has caused the
lis new channel is
1, and has the ad-
! subserved by an
understand, with-
-From Nantucket
run for the light-
you ; an east tide
oint, until you are
iree miles from the
e hghthouse bear-
>u are without the
f being set by the
ou are without the
I and tide. When
N. to E. until you
ge's on the other.
Jld Channel-way.
, run 8. E., keep-
u may then run N.
m the Great Point
ght, with the town
d, until the town is
you out channel-
you are in danger
i.
rh water at the bar.
od totheN.N. E.;
J not get set by the
ive to seven leagues
e but 2i fathoms on
o the Great Rip, is
agues distant from
8 water; 200 fathoms
E.,andrun W.N.W.
tat.
...,14 miles.
.... 4 do.
8 :.■>.
10 do.
iN...16 do.
12 do.
U do.
ligh ground, some dis-
jhi Its only use is to
the Great Point Light; between those two rips the bottom is uneven, having from 12 to
2-2 fathoms. Th(?^Two Rips lay nearly north and south, and are about twelve miles in
length.
At the full and change of the moon, it is full sea at Nantucket at about twelve o'clock,
noun.
Courses and distances from Nantucket Lighthouse.
CoureeB.
League*.
From Lighthouse to the Handkerchief N. by E 4^
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
to the Snow Drift : N. N. E.. , . .. . 6
to the Stone Horse .N. N.E. ^.. . 34
to the sandy point of Monomoy .N. by E. ^ E.. . 6-!-
to the Little Round Shoal i*. .N. E
to the Pollock Rip buoy .N. E. i N...
to the Great Round Shonl * E. N. E
to the north end of Great Rip ./ E. by S. ^ S.
to Nantucket Harbor .,;^ .S. S. W.
to Tuckanuck Shoal ,\
.w.
3
5
2f
5
n
3
to East chop of Holmes' Hole r. W. by N 9
to Horse-shoe '. . . . .... ,, . , .N. W. by W.. . 4^
to Hyannes .-,;; », .N. W. 4 N.r.v* 7
to the west pnrt of George's Bank E. i N......'!v32
From the east end of Nantucket (called Sancoty Head) to. the
South Shoal .' S. by E 4
Variation 6° 30' W.
Directions for entering NantvcJcct Harlior. — Bring the south light, and the light on
Brant Point in one, at the outer buoy : and the sout(i Tight should be opened to the
westward on this range, one handspike's length, to run th« channel from the bar orotUtdr
buoy, to the .shoaling of the water on Brant Point. ' ^
From Brant Point N. N. W. \ W, 300 fathoms; then N. by W. 1 W. lOQ fathemt;
then N. 350 fathoms over the bar.
Froin the bar N. by W. J W. eight and one half miles will cross Tuckanuck Shoal
in 17 or 18 feet water. ^
BLOCK LSLAND CHANNEL, ^c— Directions for iho$9*ru1ming for Block Mand^
Cliannel, to tlie southward of Martha's Vineyard, Vineyard iSou^d, Nav tucket Jilatid^'
and t>uch as are hound into the Vineyard Sou?id, and intend going over the SApol*M0tf^
eastward. * ''"'" \, -^'^ '
In approaching the south end of Block Island (on the N. W. point of whichtVoJ
houses arc erected, as after described) from the southward^ the water •boftls gi^f
When the island bears from N. W. to N. by W. the bottdm is mud: this is conamoii|,.
called Block Island Channel. This island, if you come from tb^ soutj^ward, |toMWM^^
round and high; ayd if you approach it from the S. £. it appears like a 8addl% oeinc.^
high at both ends, bul highest to the southward. Your course from the soulh^eMtheac ^
of Block Island to 'Gay Head Lighthouse is K. by N. 15 leagues. The current in Bloefc '
Island Channel is N. N. E. and S. S. W. two knots. If you fall, to the southvard of
* Gay Head Lighthouse stands at the touth-west end of Martha's Vineyard, on ji rlirmt'ksdde
pron>3ntory called Gay Head, eievarted above high water 134 feet, elevation of liaht%bo^ tftit sek i,i
150 feet. , ■ ■* . ;
Thu cliff, which rises about 134 fret above the wnter, is very conspicuous •fi9))|j^6difrerat|t 8<K'*!^
lors of the earth, which have been expo.=ed by the action o/ the elements. ' ' ^ '
The lights revolve once in about four minutes, and arc observed twice in each revolution, hi {ba ' i ,
distance of twelve miles thev ure oliFc\ired about three fourths of the time : at three miles dietanov ^y\
they may always be seen, thousrh dimly, through parts of each revolution. Cnpe Poge Light, at the' '"
N. E. point of the Vineyard, may be seen over the land from sea, is a fixed light, to distinguidl it
from that of Gay Head ; also Cuttehunk Light, at the N. W. part of Cuttehunk Island, south en>
trance of Buzzard's Ony, which is nlso a fixed light. The Devil's Bridge, a rocky shoal, makes off
about S. W. from tlie light, one and a half mile distant. Beorings and distances from'^^' light ;«-•
West part of Neman's Land Island bears S. 8" W. from (iay Head, 6^ miles distant. "The island
is about three miles long and one broad. Old Man, S. by B. This is a ledge of rockti which Ilea
two thirds of the distance from the Vineyard to Noman's Land Island, which has a pamage nn both ^1^
sides that is but little used. Those who go through'musl keep near Noman's Land Island Jil tb^ ^J
light bears north. You will have 7 fathoms water in this passage. Sow and Pigs, N. Wi by W;
3i leagues. This is a ledge of rocks which is very dangerous. Newport, (Rhode l»]a/kA) Lii||^-
hwuse, W. by N. i N., distant 11 leagues. >?* ^ ^<^
^
188
ULUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
.0 >
Martha'8 Vineyard, and can see Noman'a Land Island, and intend goina; over the shoal
to the eastward, bring Noman's Land Island to bear W., and steer E. by 8. H leagues,
which will bring you up with Nantucket Island, to which you must give a distance of
Jwo miles, until you have passed Micomic Keef, which extends one mile from the shore,
has two fathoms water, and bears from the South Tower at Nantucket, S.by W. Wh*n
you get to the eastward of this rip, you may nigh the shore to within one quarter of a
mile, until up with Tom Never s Head, which lies IJ of a mile to the southward and
westward of a small village called Sciasconset, where you may anchor, if necessary, in 4
or 5 fathoms.
If you wish to continue through the channel, which lies between Nantucket Island
and the Old Man, you m^y run within three cables' lengths of the shore, which will c^rry
you over Pochick Rip, dta which there are but 2 fathoms, and of course only fit for
small vssels. When on this rip, haul to within one cable's length of the shore, and con-
tinue iu & fathoms, till up with Sancoty Head, which is the highest eastern land of Nan-
tucket. Bring Sancoty head to bear S. W. when in 5 fathoms water, and run N. E.
till you deepen to 15 fathoms, when the Round Shoal Buoy will bear N.W., after which
you ghpal into 7 and 8 fathomst^ne ridges, which having passed, and come into 10 fath-
oms, a north'^course will carr/^ou to the High Land of Cape Cod, 17 leagues distant.
If in a large sjtjijJj and you malre the south side of Nantucket, bound over the shoals,
you may proceed either within or without the Old Man, but the latter is preferable.
If you wish to go between^the Old Man and Pochick Rip, bring Tom Never's Head
to bear-N. W. by W..'and%^.|^>E. by E. till Sancoty Head bears N. N. \V. \ W.
whereiybu will have 9 fathorri^- water, when you will run direct for Sancoty Head, till in
6 fat^o^jBof, which will be close on board; then continue your course N. E., as before
tnentio/i^d, for the Round Shoal. In, running the S. £. by E. course, you go through
kftwash half a mile widp, Laving 1 fathoms.
( 'Wyoa are coming frofai sea, and make the island of Nantticket to the northward of you,
it Qiay be known by two towers, and four windmills, which stand near each other, upon
m eiiinience. You may then steer directly for the land, until you are within half a mile,
and may, if bound to the eastward, run along the shore in 4, 6, and 6 fathoms water, to
the S. E. part of the Island, where there are shoals and rips, on which you will have
only 2i or 3 fathoms water. Sancoty Head is the easternmost head land of Nantucket.
If» Id iporaing from sea, you make the South Shoal, which lies in 41° 4' N. lat. give it
a berth|>f a mile. If you intend to make Nantucket Island, steer N. by W., and when
jrou cope near the Island, you may proceed along the shore, according to the former di-
Mctiona^
If, wlieit you make the South Sho«l, you are bound to Boston Bay, and choose to go
i^twardof all the shoals and ri})8, pass a mile or two to the southward of the shoal,
N. E. by E. about 7 ftagues, when you will be up with the Fishing Kip. In
thla N. E. by E. course, you will deepen to 25 fathoms, which is about midway
Shoal and Fishing Rip. ,^r6m the Fishing Rip, in 17 or 1 R fathams, steer N. N.
le High Land of Cape Cod 18 leagues, on which is a lighthouse, containing a
Wiwu come firom the eastward, and are bound for Long Island or New York, you
:^oiudb«i careful not to go to the northward of 41° N. latitude, until you pass the South
Qhoii^ of Nantucket. If, by stress of weather, you should be driven so far to the north-
1»ard:Ja| to, be near the Vineyard, you may pass through the channel to the westward of
Nu^l^iit Island, by bringing C^pe Poge Lighthouse to bear N. by W. and steering
^ight Cbf it, will lead you through, in from 3 to 4 fathoms, clear of all shoals, leaving
jS|Ktff*8 bland, which is a dangerous shoal, on your larboard hand. Martha's Vineyard
^itltUld lies in much the same latitude as Nantucket Island, and may be known by a small
.round Island which lies at the southward of Gay Head Light, called Noman's Land Isl-
and, before mentioned, 8 miles distant. You may sail between this island and Martha's
Vineyard ; but vou rrust take care to avoid a ledge of rocks, which bears from Gay
Head Light, S. by E. 5i miles distant, called the Old Man.
In bad weather, coming from the eastward, and you wish for a harbor, and the wind
Kdmit'^ag, you may bring Nantucket light to bear E. S. E and run W. N. W. making
.ybur course good, until Cape Poge lighthouse bears W. by S. ; if bound into Edgartown
^arbor, then steer for the light ^until you get in 3 fathoms water, then run W. N. W. ; if
'lr|hoaIea9, haul to the northward; if not, keep on until the light bears south, then run
^kTS* W. \ you will have 3 and 4 fathoms, hard bottom. As soon as you get in 5^ or G
'WboQIS, sucky bottom, then run S. S. W. until the light bears N. E i E. ; then yoil may
-anchor lb 5»bout 5 or 6 fathoms water with safety, in case your cables an'' anchors are
'ftBia-lirotthy ; otherwise, if you wish to go into the harbor, when the ligh^' ars N. E. \ E.
.jrott may run S. W. by "^ . until you get 3| fathoms, hard bottom, then run west about
half a mile, and you will be within the flats, which you leave on your starboard hand,
m
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
189
ng over tlie shoal
, by S. H leat;uP3,
cive a distance of
ie (Voni the shore,
S.byVV. Whftn
one cjuarter of a
le southward and
, if necessary, in 4
Nantucket Ishind
e, which will carry
course only fit for
the shore, and con-
^vstern land of Nan-
er, and run N. E.
N.W., after which
come into 10 fath-
17 leajiues distant,
nd over the shoals,
;r is preferable,
rom Never's Head
s N. N. \V. i W.
ancotv Head, till in
•se N." E., as before
se, you go through
le northward of you,
,\r each other, upon
e within half a mile,
6 fathoms water, to
hich you will have
land of Nantucket.
|41° 4' N. lat. give it
J , by W., and when
g to the former di-
, and choose to go
thward of the shoal,
e Fishing Kip. I"
ch is about midway
ithams, steer N. N.
louse, containing a
or New York, you
vou pass the South
so far to the north-
1 to the westward of
by W. and steering
,f all shoals, leaving
Martha's Vineyard
be known by a small
Noman's Land Isl-
isljndand Martha's
ich bears from Gay
larhor, and the wind
W. N. W. making
lUndintoEdgartown
.nrunW.N.W.; if
ears south, then run
as you get in 5^ or 6
i iK.-/then yoi'i may
lies an'' anchors are
igiiM .arsN.E.AE.
then n.in west about
our starboard baud,
n
toniing in ; you will find it smooth, and about 3 or 4 fathoms water, where you may an-
chor with safety, though your ground tackling is poor.
To enter the Vineyard Sound bring (Jay Head Light to bear S. E. 4 miles distant,
and steer E. N. E.
To enter Buzzard's Bay through Quick's Hole, bring (!ay Head Light to bear S. | W.
and steer S. A E. to the entrance of Quick's Hole, which is six miles from Gay Head.^
Menemsha Bite, which lies on the north side of Gay Head, affords good anchorage 24 to
3 miles east from the light, with the wind from E. to S. \V. but being much exposed to
the influence of northerly winds, it should be resorted to only in. tllc! summer, or at other
times from necessity.
From Gay Head Lighthouse, the south part of CuttehuDl|j^sland bears N. 45° W.
distant 7^^ miles. '*
If you wish to go to Holmes' Hole or through the SouW, bring Cape Poge light to
bear S. E. by Ei } E. and run N. W. by W. J W. you will run for the East Chop, and
leave Squash Meadow shoal on your starboard hand ', get 3 fathoms water on the Chop,
then haul to the N. N. W. until you deepen to 7, 8, or 9 fathoms; then run S. W. by W.
for Holmes' Hole roadstead, in 4 or 3^ fathoms; or IfeW. for the Sounds to clear the
West Chop and Middle (iround: T»'
Gay Head is the westernmost land of Martha's V-ineyard. Whtn ^li-cbnoc by Gay
Head with a southerly wind, the south channel is best. From Gay Heatf to Nantucket
Point, the tide sets directly through the Vineyard Sougd^with a little variation, afterpass-
ing Cape Poge to the eastward, which is caused by 'ilifreflg' tide' setting through Tuck-
anuck Channel. The land of Gay Head is high and of divers colors, namely, red,
yellow, and white, in streaks. In steering from *Block Island for Gay Head, y^» toust
be careful to avoid the Sow and Pigs; they make a ledge of rocks, some of which are
above, and others under water. These rocks lie 2^ miles S."^ by W. from the west*-
ernmost of Elizabeth Isles, and W. N. W. from Gay Head 2§ leagXies distant ; the first of
the flood tide sets strong to the northward over them into Buzzard's Bay, which is very fouL
Your course along Elizabeth Isles is E. N. E. in 15, 14, 12, 8, 15, 16, and 17 fathnme
water ; give the isles a berth of about three-quarters of a rtiile. In running frdm Gay
Head Light into Vineyard Sound, if you wish to make a harbor on the north sidCr"
(lay Head Light to bear S. W. and run N. E. 3J^ leagues, which will carry you'ft|iWith
jTarpaulin Cove Light, where you may anchor in frorii 4 to 18 fathoms, on fli^ sand,
the light bearing from W. by N. to S. W. aflording safe anchorage with northerTy wiuds.
When coming from sea, you may run for Gay Head Light, when it bears from N. N. E. to
E. S. E. giving it a berth of two miles, to clear the XJevil's Bridge, which bears from the
light S. W. l\ mile distant. As measuring the distance in the night would be uncertain,
you must keep your lead going, and if you should have 7 or 8 fathoms when tbe^
bears S. E. by E. or S. E. haul up north till you have 10 or 12 fathoms ; theiiplSC
steer N. E., and with ebb N. E. by E, 3 leagues; then E. N. E. will be the cdl
Sound, which will carry you to the northward of the Middle Ground, which ba^'ij^^firtsk^
t)wftenyou^
the AVest Chop of Holmes' Hole Light, which you may run for, keep one mile from shore
till you open the East Chop one cable's length, and with a flood Ijde steer dircct>,for it,
and with ebb keep it one point open, till you open a wind-mill on the west side.oftnip har-
bor about one cable's length, then run up in the middle of the river, till you conti^to 4 or'
3 fathoms, where you may anchor on good ground. The usual mark fot- anchoring is thU'
West Chop, bearing from N. N. W. to N. W. by N. but if you lie any time here, the
best anchoring is well up the harbor, and close to the shore, mooring S. E. and N. W.
in 4 or 5 fathoms water. In this harbor, which is about two miles deep, you will lie se-
cure from all winds except a northerly one. '.'
You must not keep further than two miles from the West Chop, as there is a «faotu[,
called Hedge Fence, on the east end of which is a black buoy, in 16 feet water, bearing fronii
West Chop east, 6 miles, and from the black buoy on Middle Ground, E. |^ S. 3 league*.
The Hedge Fence lies about ^ miles N. E. by N. from Holmes' Hole Light, and extends
*r>lock Island is nbont 9 miles in length, extending N. by E. and S. by W. and 5 miles in breadth.
tTiir|)nulin Cove light lies on the larboard hand as you enter that harbor, and shows a fixei^lwh^;;
elcvntpd RO fft aliove the fea. It bears about N. E. hy N. from Gay Head light, which, is A'i|i
intf light 3i leagues distant. ;'».,, „
t A lighthouse, showing a fixed light, is erected on the West Chop of Holmes' Hole, ol4
feet above the sea, as previously mentioned.
*•;'
■jy
190
BLUiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
W. N. W and E. S. E. (> miles, is about half a mile broad, and has 4 feet water on the shoalest
part. Between this shoal and IJolmes' Hole, there are from 8 to 12 fathoms water.
If you make t)ie Chop in the nif;ht, when it bears S. E. you are rlcar of tiie Middle
Ground ; steer for tlie east side of it till you strike in 4 or 3 fathoms on the flat ground
near the Chop, then steer S. E. by E. oljserviiii; not to go nearer the land than 3 fathoms.
If, in running S. E. by E. you fall into 6 or 7 fathoms, haul up tS. by W. or S. S. W. and
run into 4 or 3 Tathoms, as i)efore directed.
If bound into Vineyard Sound, with the wind at the eastward, and you are near the
so^th side of Martha's \^neyard, to go brlween Squibnoeket and the Old Man, run round
Squibnocketin35and4rathoms water, continuing N. N. W. along the beach till you come
to Gay Head Light, and if ebb tide, anchor in 5 fathoms, the light bearing from N. to N. E.
Vessels entering the Vineyard Sound, should leave *('uttehunk Light on the larboard
hand, giving it a berth of threeinilcs. to avoid the Sow and Pigs, the. western part of which
bears b. 56*W. from the light',*'2*r miles distant. Cuttehunk is one of the P'.lizabeth
Islands.
In entering Buzzard's Bay, tiring Cuttehunk Light to bear east, 3 miles. distant, and
steer N. E. by N,, which -bourse will carry a vessel to good anchorage, in r>i and 7
fathoms, about'one mile from thflt^iiinphn Rock Light, with it bearing from N. N. E.
to N. E. by N. This is as far as a^stvanger should venture without a pilot, who can al-
ways be had on setting a signal.
In coming into the, Sound In the|iight, with a strong north-westerly wind, haul to the
northward till you have smooth water under the Elizabeth Islands, where you may an-
chor jn 14 or 10 fathoms. Should- yoix have the wind to the southward, it will he best
to run dWwp through the South Channel, or Vineyard side. When Gay Head Light
bears S. S. E. your course' is JfT. E. by E. i E., or K. N. E., observing not to come
hearer the land than into 7 fathoms iT^ter, till you arc abreast of Lambert's Cove, in
which is good anchoring, with southerly or easterly winds, and may be known by a high
sand bank, called Necunkey CKtF, on the east side of it, about midway the Cove, oppo-
aite which you may come to in 5 or S-fathonis, sandy bottom, where is the best anchor-
ing. The middle Ground lies about two miles without the Cove, and has 12 feet water
on it. If you intend running down for Holmes' Hole, your course, when opposite Ne-
cunkey Point, is E. by N., keeping near the land to clear the Middle Ground, the east
end of which bears east from Tarpauli,n Cove Light, 4 leagues distant. You may track
■the shore by the lead in from 7 to 4 fathoms, till you come near the light; but couie no
nearer than 3 fathoms, and you may track the Chop around, the same as running down
to the northward of the Middle Ground, which bears from West C^hop Light N. W. by
\W. half a rtiile, and from the east en'd of the Hedge l-'ence, W. i N. 3 leagues. There
jd anchoring along this shore, in 6 or 4 fathoms, after you are to the eastward of
Sftlj'^Point, till you come near the West Chop. If you \Vish to make a harbor after
i>^i||_the Vineyard Sound, bring Gay Head Light to bear W., disiant 8 miles, and
S« JE. till you t^ome into 7 fathoms water, which will be on the east side of the bay
in Njtnshebitei near Clark's Spring, where the best water maybe had in greatabundance,
«nd He in good anchorage, Gay Head l»ight bearing W. by N. Your course from Gay
llead Ijight to Tarpaulin. Cove Light,,as N. E. by N, and the distance 4 leagues. In
•this b^hor you tnay anchor in from 4 to 2i fathoms, and lie safe, with the wind from N.
E. tiy Si- to south. ' It will be best to anchor in 3 fathoms, as with that water you will he
out df the tide, where thfe ground is good for holding. The tide flows at change and full
days of the moon, at 9 o'clock, but in the channel between Elizabeth Islands and Mar-
tha's Vineyard, the flood runs till 11 o'clock. In this channel there is a Middle Ground,
which 19 a'narrow shoal of sand, the eastern end of which bears N. W. by N. from the
•Cuttehunk Light sttinds on the south-west part of the island at tbe entrance of Buzzard's Bny,
iBtended to guide vessels into the Bay, and point out the location of the Sow and Pigs, to those en.
tering the Bay and Vineyard Sound. It is a fixed light, elevated 48^ feet above the sea at high
water.
Bearings from Cuttehunk Lighthouse.
West part of Sow and Pigs, very dangerous, S. 56° W 2^ miles.
Seconnet Point Rocks N. 71o W 13 do.
did Cock, a rock north side entrance Buzzard's Bay N. 45° W 5 do.
Mishom Point N. 6° E 6i do.
pwmplin Rock Lighthouse N. 18° E Sj do.
eiark's Point Lighthouse %. N. 20° E 12^ do.
• * West Point Pune Island N. 34° E 3 do.
^ Gay Head LighUiouse S. 42° E 7i do.
•■'^mm.mams.r
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
191
ion thesho.^le8t
loins water.
r ')(" the Middle
the fl;it uround
than '.] fathoms.
or S. S. W. and
I'ou ari! near the
Man, run round
leh till you come
from N.to N. K.
: OH the larboard
?rii part of which
)f the Elizabeth
lilcs. distant, and
ae, in (>h and 7
::; from N. N. E.
)iiot, who can al-
kvind, haul to the
E>re you may an-
il, it will be best
lay Head Li<;ht
v]u'^ not to come
mbert's Cove, in
known by a high
the Cove, oppo-
the best anchor-
has 12 feet water
hen opposite Ne-
Gronnd. the east
You may traci;
ht; but come no
as runninjr down
Li.ght N. W. by
eaijues. There
tlie eastward of
ike a harbor after
ant 8 miles, and
t side of the bay
f2;reat abundance,
course from Gay
e 4 leagues. In
le wind from N.
water you will be
t change and full
slands and Mar-
Middle Ground,
. by N. from the
of Buzzard's Bay,
i Pips, to those en.
ove the sea at high
.. 2i milpB.
13 do.
, 5 do.
, H do.
84 do.
,..I2i do.
, 3 do.
. 7i do.
light. There is not more than 3 or 4 feet on the eastern end. N. W. from Necunkey
Cliff are .S and 4 fathoms across the ground. Opposite Lambert's (^'ove is 12 feet, and
to the westward of that, is .'3 or 4 fathoms. The shoal lies W. by S. and E. by N., is
about 4 leagues in length, and has several swashes on it. When the East Chop of
Holmes'Hole comes op';n of the Wesrt Ciiop, youare to the eastward of the Middle'uruund.
Vour course from Tarpaulin ("ove Liglit to Holmes' Hole Light, is E., i N. distant 3
leagues. In steering this course, you must have resrard to the tide, as tne ebb may set
yon too i'-v to the southward, and the (lood too far to the northward, and stand in for the
harbor, when yon luive opened the East Chop, as before directed. From Holmes' Hole
Light to Cape Poge Light, the course is E. .S. E., and the distance al>QUt 3 leagues;
in llie channel between them there are 12 and 11 fathoms w«ter. In going over the
slioals through this channel, you must he careful to keej* your lead going, in order to
avoid a dangerous sand which lies on the north side of i,t, called the Horse-shoe, distant
from Capu Poge 3 leagues. The channel between thra sand and Cape Poge, and also
between the former and *Tuckanuck 8hoal, is narrow; in it there are from 12 to 4^
fathoms water, the latter of which is between the east radof the Horse-shoe aodTuck-
anuck Shoal. When Tuckanuck Island bears S. S. W. you are to the eastward of the
Horse-shoe. On the south side of the cliannel, al^jMUiere are several ip,ots of shoals,
to avoid which von must keep V'lur lead going. ^" ' • .»
f ED(i.VKTOWN HARlJOli lies befiveen Marthi's Vineyard and Cape Poge. Ves-
sels bound eastward and wishing to enter Edgartowi«Harbor,froro the east end of Squash
Meadow Shoal, in 3 fathoms water, bring the harbor light to bear S. and Cape Poge
Light to bear S. E. ; then steer S. S. E. ; they will pasS the Long Flait in <^ fathoms
of water, until the harbor light bears .S. W. by S. ; then steer S. S. W. ; they, wilj hate
b and 64 fathoms water, until the harbor light beat's W,"; then steer W. by S. and pass
the light about a c le's length to the right ha^^ which courses will carry them. Up to'
the wha'- es. • ^ ..,".*••
Vtf .IS bou I t^estward, and wishing to enter Edgartowh Harbor, after passing near
Cape Poge, in 4 jr 5 fathoms water, bring the harbor light to bear S. W. by S. and steer
S. S. W. until the harbor light bears W. ; then steer W. by S. and pass the light, about
a cable's length to the right hand, which courses will carry them up to the wharves/ •
If vessels wish to anchor in the outer harbor, they will follow the above directions un-
til the harbor light bears W. by S. and ('ape PogQ light bears N. E. J E.when theynnty
anchor in 44 or 5 fathoms water, and very good holding ground.
h\ leaving Holmes' Hole to pass over the shoals, keep the West Chop open to the,
northward of the East Chop, until you have passed Squash Meadow Shoal, on the N.
W. end of which is a red luoy, with ^ small pole ibthe end of it, placed in 16 feet
ter, bearing from Cape Pogs Lifhi N. W. 4 W. 6 miles; from West Chop .~
by E. i E. 6 miles ; and from thr black buoy or Hedge Fence S. by E. 2 mil*
est waier 5 feet. The buoy lies about 2.^ miles fromtho'East Chop, must be
starboard hand, when your course will be E. by S. in 10 or 12 fathoms wate|^^|^cii;'
course you must continue till you pass Cape Poge Light. If it should fee tid*^
you mu.st steer E. by S. 4 S. as the tide of floocj sets very strong to the Borthf
tween Cape Poge and Tuckanutk Island, and t^e tide of ebb^to the southwai ,.^
you iiuist govern your course by the tide. In cleai: weather you mgy see NM^ ^
Lighthouse 18 miles, which you nrust bring to bear E. by S. i.S. which course, y^^'^a
to steer, passing it at the distance of one league, when you must bring it to bear .vei^and
steer east, taking care to make this course good, which will carry you over the slitiBlIc ict,
ship channel; the ground is very uneven, and you will have from 4 to 8 fathom* ilrttef*''
When you have passed over the shoals, you will have from 10. to 14 fathoms water, «tt()
then by steering north, you will make Cape Cod Lighthoiise '(whit;h contains a filKOd
light) distant 18 leagues. -
To go to the northward of the (ireat Round Shoal, on the northerly part of which i»
a black buoy, which you leave on your starboard hand, placed in 14 feet water, bearing
from Sancoty Head N. by E. \ E. 5 leagues, from Nantucket Light E. N. E. | K. 10
miles, and from the red buoy on Point Kip E. N. E. 3 leagues, shoalest water Sfeet^^yoii
must proceed according to the foregoing directions, until you pass the lightho^sf, and
bring it to bear S. W. \ W. then by making a N. E. i E. course good, you will go be-
tween the (treat and Little Round Shoals, on the south part of which is a white buoy,
with a small pole in the end of it, placed in 14 feet water, bearing from Chatham Lights
m
* Tuckanuck Shoal lies between Cape Poge and Tuckanuck Island. On the shoal a rio«f}rt£
light is moored. ;-
t A fixed light is erected at the entrance of Edgortown Harbor, on a pier running from th^,'5&tt/'
side, 1000 f.et from the beach. It is elevated 50 fxt above the level of the sea.- ** #'
192
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
S. by W. 4.V lea,mips; fiom Nantucket Light N. E. 3 leagues; atitl from the l)lacU buoy
on the Great Round Shoal N. W. by N. •J_^ miles • slioalcst water 7 feet, in -2^, .'5, 4, and
6 fathoms water, until you have crossed the Pollock Rip, where you will have about .'{
or 4 fathoms water, on which is a red buoy, w eh you leave on your larboard hand.
The Little Round Shoal bears N. W. from the eat one, distant about 2\ miles. Con-
tinue yoar N. E--J E. course, until you deepen your water to li or l;i fathoms, and then
stoer north for Cape Cod Lighthouse before mentioned, and described in page 177.
As the South Shoal of Nantucket lies in lat. 41" 4' N. and the (Julf Stream, south-
ward from this part, reaches as far to the northward as lat. 38^ 30' N. yo)i should pass
Nantucket Shoals between these latitudes. The shoal on (Jeorge's JJank (east end) lies
in long. 67° 42' W. and the W. end in long. 07° 5i)' W. and the South Shoal of Nan-
tucket in long. 69° 56' W.
By observing the foregoina directions, and keeping between the Gulf Stream and the
Shoals, you will shorten youTpassage to New-Vork, Delaware, Virginia, or other western
porta; for you will have the advantage of the eddy current, running contrary to the (iiilf
Stream ; the latter would retard your progress at the rate of 60 or 70 miles a day. The
Nantuoket whalem n, by their constant practice of whaling on the edge of the Gulf
Stream all4he way irom their island to the Bahamas, are well acquainted with its course,
Telocitj^ \ai extent. A stranger may know when he is in the Gulf Stream, by the
warmth of the water, which is much greater than that on either side of it. If, when
you are cfOssing the Gulf Stream, you are bound to the westward, you should get out
of it as 8000 as possible.
Bearings and dista7ices from the light, on Cape Page, and depth of water of several most
dangerotu shoals in sight of Cape Poge Lighthouse, and the bearings of the East Chop
of Holmes' Hole.
East Chop, N. W. by W. J W. from said light, 7i miles distant.
^quasli Meadow Shoal, .if. W. J \V. 5 feet at low water, 5^ do.
Norton's Shoal, E. i S. 9 do. do. l\ do.
J^lfoskeeket Long Shoal, E. | S. C do. do. 8 do.
Tuckaipuck Sboal, E. J S. 7 do. do. 14 do.
fiotttinijfcnd Horse-shoe, E. ^ N. 7 do. do. 13.i do.
iDlry Spots Horse-shoe, N.E.^N. dry 10 do.
Swash of Horse-shoe, E.N.E. 12 do. do. <J do.
|Tucka^uck Shoal from } W hv N 7 do
' • ,N«atucket light, J W. by JN. 7 do.
^M-aboe from do N. W. by W.
S3".t.™d,S W.b,N.iN.
Poge to Skiff's Island, S. \ W. dry 9 do.
ult the shoalest part, S. E. ^E. 6 do. do. 3} do.
^f*0^i-
rVA]¥T1JCKET* ISOVTH SHOAL, &c.
THIS daagerotus Shoal, which lies in lat. 41° 04' N. long. 69° 56' W. bears S. by E.
from Saneoty Head, 4 leagues distant. It is composed of laard white sand, over which
the sea breaks in the most tremendous manner, having on it in many parts, only 3 feet
water, and the tide meeting it obliquely, passes over it in different directions. The
course of tile tide is N. E. and S. W. beginning to run S. VV. at 10 o'clock on the day
of fuU moon, and continues in that direction about 7 hours. It extends from east to west
one mile, and is in breadth two cables' lengths. It often breaks in 5 fathoms, on the east
and Weat^f the Shoal. The rip which extends from the western (ud, has about 7 fa-
thoms «i^r on it.
South from the South Shoal, half a mile distant, the bottom is uneven, from 3 to 5
■ fathotns. There is a rip puts off from the west end of the Shoal to the south and west,
• Tbos Shoal, together with George's Bank, have been surveyed at the expense of the Author, and
li^d on a large scale, together with a general Chart of the Western Ocean, by E. &, G. W.
'm
(UNT, 133 Maiden Lane, corner Water-street, N. York.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
193
the l)lrick biiojr
, ill 'i'M 3, 4, ami
ill hiive i-.bout ."J
larboard hiind.
»\ miles. Con-
rhonis, and then
1 p;me 177.
Streain, soutli-
ou should pass
li (east end) lies
I Shoal of Nan-
Stream and the
or other western
trary to the (iult'
les a day. The
iize of the (iiilf
\ with its course,
Streain, by the
of it. If, when
lu should get out
»r of several most
of die East Chop
'; miles distant.
I do.
[ tlo.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
V. bears S. byE.
sand, over which
parts, only 3 feet
directions. The
clock on the day
from east to west
horns, on the east
, has about 7 fa-
even, from 3 to 5
le south and west,
e of the Author, and
an, by E. &, G. W.
and sweeps round so that the south end of the rip bears nearly south from the Shoal, on
whirh it sometimes breaks in 7 or 8 fathoms water, at the distance of 5 miles from the
Shoal ; between the outer |)art of the rip and the Shoal is uneven bottom and full of rips.
The tides run round the compass in 12] hours, but the southern tide has the greatest
duration, and runs the stronj^est.
Ail wiio pass n«!ar the South Shoal should, for their own safety, pay particular atten-
tion to the tides, sometimes a <Mirrent sweeping them over the bottouilrith a velocity as
great and even much greater in some instances than the vessel movcfs through the water.
Extract from the surveying sloop Orbit's Jfpiimal'
" Sancoty Head bearing N. \V.
Siasconset town N. W. \ N.
Southernmost land W.
"Sancoty Head bearing N. by W.
Siasconset N. N. W.
Tom Never's Head N. W. by N.
Southernmost land W. N. W.
Came to a large swash through the Base
Kip, with o fathoms. Standing on the rip
had from ^^et to 2 fathoms, hard sand.
On the south Breaker of Bass Rip, in 9
and 8 feet, and ie^s.
" Kept standing on to the southward in a channel of from 6, 7, and 8 fathon* Snncq-
ty Head bearing N. by W. d miles, crossed a dangeroas Rip ip 2^ fathoms, l^ing S. W.
by S. From this Rip, E. S. E. 3 miles distant, is another Rip, between which are 9,
15, 17, 14, 6, and 4 fathoms, which is the shoalest water on the Rip; then standing east,
had 7 and S fathoms ; three cables' lengtlis from this Rip, catne to another wtthi fathoH^ ■
water; from this, at equal distance, came to a thircj, thena fourth, all of which were w^|l^
in the limits of 3 miles, and lay N. and S. Although they have the appearance of dfll|||f
cer, there is not less than 4 fathoms on the shoalest part. After crossing thelburth Riftt,
came into deep water within one mile, viz. J2, 17, 22, and 25 fathoms, sand and r<^(|\
gravel. When over, had smooth water with 3 fathoms, and made a south cokf^, haiS '
ina; 4, 11, Id, and then 11 fathoms, and crossed- the east end of the South Sho^t in S
fathoms, running down the south side in 13 fathoms, 80 fathoms distant, when we ^jt*'
chored in 10 fathoms. Got under way and stood to the westward ; had 7, 4, 6,''i& 4|>d 7
fathoms; doubled round the west end in 3 fathoms, fine sand ; when over had 7 fdllhoin%
the tide setting N. N. W. Kept along the north side in 2i, 2j, and 2 fathoms, on%!iu|-
ble's length from the breakers. When about mid-way the Shoal, perceived a swuw^i'
through which we crossed between the breakers, in' a S. S. E. direction, htdSi liKp^
fathoms, and one cast 9 feet, at which time it was about half- tide. In a fe#nioigWU
deepened to 4, 5, b, anil 7 fathoms, 2 cables' lengths from the Shoal, hard wihitei
From this steered S. i W. to make a south course good, kept the lead goiMI
creased the soundiii<j;s gradually to 10 fathoms, fine black and white sand, tjbl
from the Shoal. From this sounded every three miles, depth increasing at
thoin per mile, till at the distance of 7 leagues from the South Shoal* wacr« ,
28 fathoms, fine black and white sand. This was in lat. 40° 42' N. long.^jjf^j^^W*
The same tjuality of soundings continue till you get in lat. 40° 31' N. wfc,*« |fi(%,fi?^|tt
liave 40 fathoms, soft mud, from which it continues mudtjiy bottom titt off MWIMl^lglii
and in 40° 00' N. no bottom, with 120 fathoms." ' "^^ ; :> ''
NoTK. — The Orbit (Capt. .1. Colesworthy) was sent by the authorof this wiftkto afh
certain the exact situation of the South Shoal, which differing so much in Riti||N|4 fropt
what it had ever been laid down, induced several gentlemen in Nantucket agaio t^' |)tb>
gage in the enterprise, \yho confirm the surveys made in that vessel, and make^hft fH^^^^
lowing report: "Observed in lat. 41° 4' 11" N. abreast of the Shoal, as laid dblfB 1^^**? ■
Capt. Colesworthy ; steered olf S. by W. 22 miles, and regularly deepened the Water to
35 fathoms; steered E.N. E. twelve miles, to 30 fathoms; N. W. twenty miles to 18 fa- ;
thnms ; S. S. W. ten miles, to 30 fathoms ; and N. N. W. fourteen miles, regularly
shoaling until 6 A. M. made the Mills, and came in at one P. M. These several courses
formed a track over where Paul Pinkham has laid the South Shoal of NaBtae||ett^«^
on which there are 28 fathoms." '^
Eight or tf?n leagues S. E. from the south part of George's Bank, lies the Gulf iSliMint
where there is a strong E. N- E. current, and if you are bound to the westwairdj ^W had
bettei*go very near the Bank, quite OH'setiindings, till you are abreast of theSe^^ Shfltt^ --M
of Nantucket, where you have 30 leagues from Bank to current, and by doing .Which jrOtt'v I
will certainly shorten your passage. 5-l|
Seven leagues to the westward of the South Shoal, in 25 or 30 fathoms, youyriXiiUKtV
black mud of a shining smooth nature, Ayhen you will be in Tuckanuck chaifoei. . •: _
To the westward of the South Shoal of Nantucket, you have no shoals, ripv, pi^r jt^^N^
to hurt you, until you come near the land ; but clear sea, good navigation, and raruwiil
25 ■• -:
194
BLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
soundings. To the eastward and northward of the South Shoal, you will liave a rapid
tide.
A Shoal called Pocliicii Rip, lies off the S. E. part of Nantucket Ishind. It com-
mences a ftw rods sonih of Siiisconset town, and then runs E. S. E. one mile, when you
come to a corner on wiiicli art; b feet at low water; between tliis corner and the island
there are a few swashes from J', to .'] tathoms, throuph wiiicli vessels may pass. From
the corner the Rip runs soutii 1^ mile, when you come to another swash, hall a mile
wide, with 7 fathoms, VV. S. W. one quarter of a mile from this chaimel is a very shoal
spot, with 6 feet, which runs S. W. by \V, one cjuarler of a mde, when you fall into a
swash 40 rods wide, Tom Never's Head bearins; N. N. \V. 3 miles distant. Y'ou then
come to the east end of the Old Man, which runs VV. .S. W. about 4 miles, on which are
from 9 feet to 3 fathoms : when over the Uld Man, you will drop into 7 fathoms, fine
sand, with black specks.
Between the Uld Mjiu, Tom Never's Head, and Pochick Rip, there is a very good road-
stead or anchorage; and with the wind at N. \V., N., N. E., E,, S. E. and far as
South or S. S. W. preferable to any harbor in tlie Vineyard Sound for vessels bound
to the Northward or Eastward, particularly in the winter season, provided your cable and
anchors are good. Tom Never's Head bearing E. N. E. \ N. the southernmost land W.
by N. you will have ♦ fathoms, coarse sand; from which to the Old Man you will have 5
6, 6^, 7, 8, 9, 10 to !♦ fathoms, red sand, then hall way between the two ; from this you
shoalen to 13, H, 6, 7, 5, 4 and 3 fatlioms, tine sand, with black specks.
The Great Rip is about 4\ leagues from Sancoty Head; on this Rip, about E. S. E.
from Sancoty Head, there are 4 feet wr-.ter, and east tVom Squam there are 5, but on many
other pirts of it there are 2\, 3, and 4 fathoms water.
Fishing Ripjs about 11^ leagues from Sancoty Head, and has from 5 to 7 fathoms water
on it. Between this and the Great Rip, the ground is uneven: there are I'J, vJ2, and 15
fathptris water. These two Rips stretch nearly north and south, and are about 1'2 miles
in length. Off the east part of Nantucket Island, lies the 13ass Rip, about 3 miles from
Saapoty Head.
Around the coast of Nantucket and the Shoals, you will have sandy bottom, and in mod-
erate weather had better anchor than be driven ai)out by the tide, which is very ranid. —
The couFtfe of the tides at and over Nantucket Shoals, is nearly N. E. and S. W. and
regular. The N. E. tide makes flood. S. S. E. moon makes high water. South moon
makes full sea at Nantucket Harbor.
South of Noraan's Land Island, in 20 or 25 fathoms, you will have coarse sand like
j^ravsl stones ; and S. S. W. from it, in 28 or 30 fathoms, coarse red sand. S. S. E. fi'om
)ck Idland, which is in Block Island Channel, in 40 or 50 fathoms, you will have ooziy
but as you shoal your water to 25 or 20 fathoms, you will have coarse sandy
t' ' ■
i and W. N. W. moon makes high water on the Shoals; the tide of flood sets
, j^. kySL' and ebbs S. W. by W. from 2 to 3 knots an hour. It ebbs and Hows about
<tf^6fe«t.
»:- If vllkd coming from sea, you fall into Block Island Channel, you will have soundings
in lat.' 40" N. 100 fathoms, mud' and ooze, which quality of soundings continue decreas-
:i(l^ fdMnally, till you get into 40 fathoms. In 38 fathoms. Block Island bearing N. by
W. j(| leagues distant, you will have fine red and black sand ; two and one half leagues
4i»tl(llt. flSive beariogi you will have 28 fathoms, coarse sand. When Block Island bears
N. dianuif 4 or 5 leagues, you cannot see any land to the northward or eastward ; but as
youapproach the island, you see Morttock Point to the westward, making a long low point
to tbejfoastward, on which is a lighthouse. In sailing W. S. W. you will make no remark-
able I^Md on)^ong Island, from the eastward of said island to the westward, its broken land
appearing at'a distance like islands; but may discover Fire Island lighthouse, which
shows a revolving light» containing 18 lamps, elevated 80 feet 3 inches above the level
of the sea, and 70 feet 10 inches from the base, bearing N. 77° 35' E. from Sandy Hook
light, 12 leagues distant. From Fire Islands light, a shoal extends south three-foilrths
ef a mile and joins the bar, which is very dangerous, as it shoals suddenly from 8 to 6
fathoinB« then directly on the Shoal, on which the flood tide- sets very strong. It is not
lafe to approach the shore nearer than two miles when the light bears to the east of North.
To the eastward of the light the shore is bold ; the bar is subject to change, and has 7
feat water on it. When Fire Islands light bears N. in 10 fathoms water, you may steer
W. by S. which will carry you up with Sandy Hook light. The quality of the bottom
is various, viz. yellow, red, brown, blue and grey sand, within short distances. About
south from Fire Islands, 33 miles distant, and 40 miles S. E. by E. from the Highlands,
lies a Bank, extending from N. E. by E. to S. W. by W. having on it from 10 to 14 fath-
i, pebbles. Within this, a short distance, you will get 30 fathoms, when it shoals into 16
will have a rapid
Island. It com-
; mile, wlieii you
;r and the island
lay |)as9. From
■ ash, halt a mile
lel is a very shoal
!H you tall into a
itant. You then
les, on which are
:o 7 fathoms, fine
a very good road-
. E. and far as
for vessels bound
Rd your cable and
lernmost land \V.
m you will have 5
o ; from this you
i.
), about E. S. E.
re 5, but on many
0 7 fathoms water
ue V2, 22, and 15
re about \2 miles
jout [i miles from
ittom, and in mod-
h is very ranid. —
;. and S. W. and
er. South moon
coarse sand like
d. S. S. E. from
ou will have ooziy
ave coarse sandy •
3 tide of flood seta
s and Hows about
II have soundings
continue decreas-
md bearing N. by
1 one half leagues
Jlock Island bears
eastward ; but as
g a long low point
make no remark-
(i, its broken land
ighl house, which
above the level
rom Sandy Hook
uth three-foilrths
lieiily from 8 to 6
strong. It is not
the east of North,
hange, and has 7
r, you may steer
lity of the bottom
listances. About
m the Highlands,
■om 10 to 14 fath-
m it shoals into 16
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
195
fathoms, grey sand, which depth you will carry till you get into what is called the *Mud
Hole, where are from 20 to .'id fatluims water, marl or green ooze, and sometimes pebbles,
the deepest part of which bears east from the northeriunost part of the Woodland|JO
miles; and S. E. i S. 16 miles from Sandy Hook light. From the Mud Hole to fhe
Bar of Sandy Hook, the water shoals gradually, as laid down on the Chart. On the
Hank is plenty of /ish.
Vou will have -JO or "^^ fathoms water out-sight of the land, sandy bottom in some and
clay in other places. When yoti conie in sight of Sandy Hook lighthouse, you will see
the Highlands of Neversink, which lie VV. S. W from Sandy Hook, and is the most re-
markable land on that shore. On the Highlands two lighthouses are erected.
NEW BEDFOliD, THROlKiH QUICK'S HOLE.— Bring Gay Head lighthouse
which contains a revolving light, to bear S. i W. and ruuN. \ E. till you come to the
passage through the islands, whicli forms Quick's Hole,.whicli you must enter as near
the middle as possible; but if you deviate, keep the starboard hand best on board, to
avoid a spit or flat which runs oH' from the S. E. point of Nashawina, on the larboard
hand, when you will have from 5 to 6 fathoms, then haiil square into the Hole, keeping
the larboard hand best on board, foilouing somewhat the bend of the shore. You will
keep Gay Head Light o))en about a shi[)'s len;i;th by the S. E. point of Nashawina, till
you are at least one mile north of the Hole, which will carry you to the eastward of a
ledge and rock that lie that distance from it, with only 5 to 12 feet water oh them, to the
westward of which is a good channel, and 5 fathoms all round. Then steer N. -J W.till
you strike hard bottom in .) fathoms water, on the S. E. corner of the Great Ledge,
which is on the western side of the channel ; then N. E. by N. about three fourths of a
mile, till in 5.7 or h fathoms, siicky bottom, when th« light will bear N. N. W. ; then
steer N. by W. and run into the rivor.f After passing jClark's Point Light, you will
see a small island, called Outer Egg Island, just above- water, which you will leave on
your starboard hand, giving it some berth, as there are rocks which lie south-westerly
from it, say one third of a mile distant, but still keeping nearer to it than to the main
land, to avoid iJutler's Flat, which makes olf from the west shore. To steer cleat- of
this flat, keep the lighthouse open a ship's length to the westward of the Round Hills.
As soon as you open the north line o(" the woods with the clear land, about a mile north
of the lighthouse, you are to the northward of the flat, and may steer direct,",either for
the hollow or the high part of Palmer's Island, hauling a little to the eastwiird as you
approach it. The passage between this island and Fort Point, on the starboard hand,
is narrow, A flat which extends out S. W. from the point, makes it necessary to keep
nearest the island. As you draw towards the north end of the island, ^ve it a '1>eith ^'
two ships' lengths, as a small flat makes off" east from its N. E. point. As soon ai-'j ""^
have passed the island one cable's length, the town will appear open on your Is
hand, when you may run for the end of the whtirf which projects out farthest it ,. ._
channel (Rotch's Wharf); or to anchor in the deepest water, bring Clark's Point^tgbt
without Palmer's Island. ' '
Other directions from Quick's Hole to New Bedford are, to make a north course gooA
till you strike hard bottom in 5 fathoms, on the eastern side of the channel, i^flNl then
haul up N. N. W., but the former directions the pilots consider safest. . ; ~
In coming into New Bedford from the westward, the eastern channel is safest for
strangers. Give the Sow and Pigs a berth of one mile, and run N. E. by N.' till Pane
Island bears S. E. ; then E. N. E. till Gay Head Light bears S., an'd then Nr^W. as
before directed.^ " . * t '' , ."'.
A rock lies oft" N. W. from the north end of-Puhe (or Puneguese, as it is saii;ietimea
called) about one mile distant, on which there is only 8 feet at low water. Beftween
this and Wilke's Ledge (on which there is a black buoy) is an open ship'cbannel, free
from danger, and courses may be varied as circumstances require. By those who are
acquainted with the bay, the western channel is most commonly used. Giving the Old
♦This Mud Hole, with the soundings off the Hook, are correctly laid down on a chart of the Har-
bor of New York, with the Coasts of Long Island and New Jersey from Fire Islands to fiarnegat
Inlet, compiled and surveyed by Edmund Blunt, and published by Edmund & Geo. W. Bttwi, Ni>.
133, Maiden Lane, New York. i
t When running from Quick's Hole for the N. Ledge, as soon as you find yourself in 7 fathomi
water, j'ou may be sure that you are ai)reast of the Great Ledge, or have passed it.
t Clark's Point Lighthouse stands on the south end of Clark's Neck, containing a fixed light ele-
vated 52 feet above the level of the sea, at high water, and is intended to guide vessels into the harbota
of New Bedford and Fairliaven. The light hears from Cutterhunk Light, S. 20*2 W. 12J miles distant.
From the light to Dumplin Rock Light, S. 24'^ W. 4 miles.
" " Centre Quick's Hole, S. 10° E. 10 do,
» " Black Ro-.k, S. 54^ E. 2^ du.
196
nLUNT S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
Cock, Hen and CViickens a Hiiflioient berth, the only Hanger to be avoided in npproarh-
ing Mlshom Point, is a rock \vhi( h lie.s iihnnt one mile S. W. by S. (Voni it, on whirli
tiiire 18 only 6 feet water, llavini^ passed iMishom I'oint, directly south of whicli, onf
mile distant, there is a ledfje, on which there is not more than 3 fatiionis at low water,
and sometimes less, you may steer directly for the •Dnmplin Rocks Lijiht, olf the Hound
Hills, and which jnay be passed within two cables' leiij^tlis to the eastward. Flence to
Clark's Point Light the course is N. N. E. ; but to avoid the Middle r-edge. (on wiiich
there is a red buoy,) and which lies very near in a direct course from the outer Diiniplin
to the light, it is better to steer N. K. by N. about a mile, and then haul up N. N. K.,
when you will leave the ledge on your larboard hand. You may also carry in 4 faihoms
to the westward of the led|^, but the channel between it and the Lone Rock, which
lies N. W. from it, is narrow.
When bound to sea a S. W. by S, course from the Dnmplin Kock Lights will carry
you jnst without the ledge touth of MiHhom Point, and in a fair channel way between
the Sow and Pigs, and Hen and Chickens.
From Seaconnet Rocks (giving them a berth of one mile) to the entrance of Bnzzard's
Bay^ discourse is £. i 8. By this course made good, all the dangers of the Hen and
Chickens will be avpided. Soundings generally, from 9 to 7 fathoms, and mostly hard
bottomtlfill it deepens to 16 fathoms, sucky bottom, when Cutterhunk Island Light will be
Upwarnof a mile distant, and Clark's Point Light will bear N. N. E. and you may run
directly for the light till up with the Dumplin Rocks, to which a sufficient berth must be
given. Or you may stand on this N. N. E. course till in 7 fathoms, sucky bottom, whi( h
will be l^etween Mishom Point and the Round Hills, and come to anchor; or otherwise,
iteer N. N. E. till Pune Island bears S. E. and then E. N. E. for Quick's Hole channel,
as beftire directed. It may be well to observe, that if, when you have stood in from Sea-
connet Ppint towards Cuttet'hunk Island light, and the light on Clark's Point is not to be
seen, bKt you can see Gay Head light, you may stand on your course E. | S. till yon
■hutn in behind the west end of Cutterhunk, but must then immediately change your
course to N. N. E. If neither light is to be seen, the soundings are the only dependence,
and must be very carefully attended to. In light winis you must take care the flood
tide does not carry you into Buzzard's Bav, or on the Sow and Pigs.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS.— To ihe S. E. of the Dumplin Rocks light, one-half
to three-quarters of a mile distant, is a sand spit with only 7 feet of water on it. Be-
tween this spit and the rocks, there are 5 fathoms water.
Lone Rock, on which a black buoy lies, about .35 feet S. by E. from the rock : from
rhich, Clark's Point lighthouse bears N. N.E. — Outer Dumplin Rock, S. by W, \ W.
ind Hill S. W. J S.— White .Buoy at Hussey's Rocks S. W. by W. distance by es-
[^Mnijll^on,, one mile — the entrance of Apponeganset River N. W. and N. W. of the Mid-
.» £ad£if nearly half Q.^ipile dijytant, is nearly or quite dry at low water, when there are
"^ f^lhdms round it. Between this rock and the Husney Rock is the entrance to Ap-
TOfttUijApstt River; depth oC water, in the channel, 3^ fathoms. There is also a channel
oeCvNIjwithe Hussey Rock and White Rock. Course from Quick's Hole to entrance of
Apj^p^anset River, N.N. W.
-Tw White Rock, on which a white buoy lies, about 40 feet S. S. E. from the Hus-
seyVjI^cks, from which Round Hills bearS. S. W. — White Rock south, and distant by
«8ti#atti6o, one mile — Clark's Point lighthouse N. E. by N. — Buoy at the Lone Rock
> N. iff. % E. and the entrance of Apponeganset River, N. N. W. appears considerably
high above water, and the two rocks to the westward of it, called the Rugged Rocks, are
always to be seen.
A small rock to the S. W. of the North Ledge, (about one mile distant from the buoy)
with only 7 feet water on it, and another small rock to the N. E. of the same ledge
(about half a mile distant from the buoy) with 10 feet water on it, were recently dis-
covered by Capt. Mosher. On the former he struck with the brig Commodore Decatur,
and on the latter with the brig Elizabeth.
Packet Rock, a small sunken rock, on which there are 4 feet water, lies half a mile or
upwards W. by N. from Black Rock. The passage for coasting vessels bound from
'New-Bedford up the bay, is between Packet and Black Rocks.
..'>■ I* Dumplin Rock Light, on one of the Dumplin Rocks in Buzzard's Bay, 6 miles S. S. W. from
Clark's Point Lighthouse. The lantern is on a tower on the centre of a dwelling-house, showing
a fixed light, with patent reflectors, 43 feet above the sea. The following are the bearings : Clark's
Pmnt Lighthouse, N. N. E. distant 5 miles ; Buoy on Middle Ledge, N. E. by N. i N. 2i miles ;
Buoy on North Ledge, N. E. J E. 3 miles ; Buoy on Great Led^e, E. ^ S. 2 miles ; Wood's Hole E.
by S. 15 miles ; Quick's Hole S. by E. i E. 12 miles : Buoy on Wilke's Ledge, S. by E. i E. 2 J miles ;
Pme Island, S. by W. 10 miles ; Cutterhunk Lighthouse, S. S. W. 12 miles ; Sow and Pigs, S. S.
W. i W. 14 miles ; Mishom Point, S. W. i W. 2 miles ; White Rock, N. i E. half a mile.
e(\ in npproarfi-
nil it, (III whicii
ii of vvliicli, one
iiM at low water,
It, ott' tlif ilourii!
i-ard. Utiice to
I'dge. (on which
e outer Dmnplin
III up N. N. K.,
irry in 4 fathoms
ne Rock, which
[jights will carry
nel way between
nee of Bnzzard's
of the Hen and
and mostly hard
and Light will be
*nd you may run
f»nt hertli must be
ky bottom, wliic h
nr; or otherwise,
Cs Hole channel,
tood in from Sea-
Point is not to be
I E. I S. till you
itely change your
only dependence,
ke care the flood
pks light, one-half
water on it. Be-
the rock : from
S. by W. 1 W.
distance bv es-
W. ofthe Mid-
r, when there are
entrance to Ap-
is also a channel
ole to entrance of
from the Hus-
ith, and distant by
the Lone Rock
ears considerably
ugged Rocks, are
nt from the buoy)
the same ledge
^ere recently dis-
imodore Decatur,
lies half a mile or
ssels bound from
Tiilcs S. S. W. from
ing-house, showing
e bearings : Clark's
V N. i N. 2i miles ;
■s ; Wood's Hole E.
byE.iE.SJniiles;
low and Pigs, S. S.
half a mile.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
197
The soundings across the western entrance of Buzzard's Hny, between the Sow and
Pigs, and Hen and Oiickeiis, and some distance within thnii, ate very irregular, rary-
ing from .'> to 10 and IT) fathoms, and bottom generallv hanl.
A south-east moon makes high wat«r in the buy, aiiJtiie average set of tide is li knot.
BfAirings of Ledges from Clarh^a Point light. «,?y '
North Ledge S. by E.^*
Middle Ledge S. by W. J W.
(neat Letige S. i W.
Wilkes' Ledge S. hv W.
West's Island Ledge (buoy) S. E . by E.
Ot! "' hearings from the light.
Old Bartholomew Rock E. 26" N. one sixth of a mile
d tnnt.
Quick's Hole S. 9° E.
Dumplin Rocks light S. 21" W: or S. S. W. nearly.
White Kock S. 2.5° W'.
Round Hills, S.20°W.
From the North Ledge.
The lighthouse bears N. by W.
Black Rock N. E. by E.
Duinplin Rocks light, S. W.
t *■
From Middle Ledge.
Lighthouse N. bv E. i E.
Dumplin Rooks light S. \^. by S. i S.
From Great Ledge.
Lighthouse N. i E.
Mishom Point W. S. W.
North Ledge, N. N. E. 2 miles distant.
Dumpliu Rockslight, W. i N. '.^
From Wilkes' Ledge. ,\'4;
Lighthouse ' N. by E. " f
Mishom Point, ; . . , W. by N. i N. 2 mHesiUt»t«^'
Dumplin Rocks light, :. .-i. . . N. by W. i W. ab«^:t«0ie
distance. ; ■
From West's hland Ledge. ''
Lighthouse, N. W. by W.
Mishom W. S.W.
Little Black Rock N. by E. ,,
Black Rock N. W. i W.
•BUZZARD'S BAY.— The entrance of Buzzard's Baylies between Bird Island oa
the N. W. and Wing's Neck on the S. E. Sailing for Monument River, the best water
is near to Wing's Neck, and from the point of Wing'sNecki nearly up to the soutl^m-
most of jTobus Islands, are from 4 to 6 fathoms water. Near to the Island (Tobns)
commences ;, ridge of flats extending over to the N. W. shore, on wl^ich are 7 to 9 feet
water. Havmg passed over this ridge, you will have from 15 to 20 feet water, which
• Bird Island is on the north shore of Buzzard's Bay, near the east side of Sippican Harbor, in
the town of Rochester, about 12 miles E. N. E. from New.Bedford lighthouse. It is small; not con-
taining more than three acres of land, and is about five feet above the level of the sea. Tlw light
and dwelling-houses are built of stone, and are whitewashed. The tower of the former is 95 feot
high, on which is a lantern 7 feet high, that is lighted with 10 patent lamps, with a 16 inch reflector
to each, fitted on two sides of an oblong square, which revolves round once in 3^ minutes, at the
distance of five leagues, which is as far as it can be seen for the land. The time of total darkness
is twice to that of light. As you approach it, the time of total darkness increases, until you get with.'
in two miles of it, when there will not be a total darkness, but the greatest strength of lij^t wiU l>9
as 40 to 1 over that of the least light, in the course of the revolution of the apparatus. . * •
t There are three of the Tobus Islands, but at low water they are all connected.
198
BLU\T S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
depth you mnycnrry until nlireastt of n iHrijp dingle rock, rallrd the Old Cow. which lies
about one quarter ot it iiiii<' tVoin lli*' NJiorc, m lini you will couip up with si ut\iii' ol li.inl
•nnd, from 100 to 120 liithoms wide, on which are htini 7 to ') Icet water, which alier
passing, you will have iVoiii iH to I'i feet water, (|Uite up to Hack Hiver harhor. The
•oundinf{ii Hfe reduced to low water. Kise lioin .>to d tot. ilij;h water at lull and
change of the moon at 8 o'clock.
BUOY9 IN HIIZZARD'S HAY.— There are .'■. huoys placed in Hu/./ard's Hay,
viz.-^-A yellow buoy on the S. K. jiart cd' the north ledce, in JJ (athonis water; n red
buoy, lying in very slionl water, on the centre of the Middle, which is a Rinall ledge ; a
white buoy on the 8. E.'partof the (iieat I, edge, in .'! fathoins water; a black buoy on
the S. W. part of Wilkes' Ledge, in Ji fathoms water — all on the western side of the
bay; and a white buoy in 2/Btlioiiis water, on West's Island Ledge, on the eastern side.
All thesQ buoys, except t^e one on We^«t'!t leiland I^edge, are taken up in the winter.
Bearings ahj distances from Bird Jdand Liiihlliousc.
The south point of West's Island S. W. ? W,
West's Island Ledge ^ , . . . . .'^. W. i W.
The north entrance of Quick'.s Hole S. W. by S.
Wood's Hole, due ^ S. 10 miles.
The entrance of Monument Kiver, E. N. K. J N
10 miles.
11 miles.
!.'.'> miles.
7J miles.
Bearings and distances of sundn/ places in tlie virinili/ of Buzzard's Buy.
From Wing's Neck to the lighthouse on Hird Island W. by S. 'Ji miles.
Minister's Neck l^- by K. '■! of a mile.
From Qtrtat Rocky Point to the south end of Mashow Island ."^. W. i W. ^ of a mile.
, n Hog Island W by S. i of a mile.
, ' ^ Wing's Neck S. W. .T miles.
*■' Tobus Island S. S. W. ■ of a mile.
Old flow Kock .S. I.v E. 4 K. I of a ndle.
From the south end of Mashow Island to Bird Island S. \V. by W. 4 W. -14 miles,
.^ Wing's Nock,. .S. W. J S. vJj miles.
WESf ISLAND LEDGE BUOY.— West's Island Ledge lies in Buzzard's Bay,
between five and six miles S. E. by E. from New-Bedford Lighthouse, in from 4 to 4^
["l^fkthoms water. A large white buoy has been placed over the ledge.
tfiilgwing are the hearings hy compass, from lihnde Island Li ah tliouse, of several re-
markable plikf 8, together ivitli the distances, viz :
Block Island (S. E. point) ..f....^....
I^oint Judith Light, . . . . ^ . j.
Block Island (S. E. point)- S. W
Blocklsland (middle) ; S. W
Block Island (S. E. end)... S. W
.S. W. by .S.^.S.
S. W. I S. distant 2 leagues.
S. or S. VV. by S. nearly.
S. distant 6
Whale Rock... i
' 'V •
.\\
by S.
^S.
leagues.
W
^renton's Aeef,. .. . . .l"^.. .. . . ........ ..... .E. S. E. } E.
sleuth point of Rhode Island, E. ^ S.
Highest part of Qastle Hill, E. N. E. | E.
Breat<|i)'s Point,'w y. N. E. by E.
Fort on Goat Island, ..^ E. N. E. ^ N.
i' '^uth-easfernmost Duniplin, N. E. jf E.
Keitle BotlJiin ..,.....-. N. E.
Newton's Rock",. ; . . , .•^. ^ S. near 200 yards.
N. B.— The anchoring place between the town of Rhode Island and Coster's Harbor,
N. E.byE.
RHODE ISLAND HARBOR. — Directions for -those coming from the south-u-estu-ard,
who fall in with * Block Island Light ; from the ncstward through Long Island Hound ;
or from Que eastward, when bound for Rhode Island Harbor.
^ Vessels corning from the southward, or south and westward, will make Block Island.
^ye it a berth, of about one mile, on the east and west sides. The two lights situated
wo lighthouses are erected on the N. W, point of Block Island, showing fixed lights, bear.
.'and S. distant 25 feet from each other, and elevated 58 feet above the level of the sea.
the point extending into the sea, in nearly a N. | £. course, is a shoal, making it dangerous
f^'ow. which Wen
!• ridul' o( h.ird
iit«-r. wliicli j,(t»T
r lliiil)(ir. Tlif
Wilier at lull and
I?u/,z:ir(l'« Bnv,
IIS wilier ; a red
:i !<iri.iii icil^c ; ;,
.1 liliick buoy oil
slt-rii Hide of the
the eastern side.
) in ilie winter.
10 miles.
1 1 miles.
>. ~.") miles.
N. 7i miles.
(f'n Hay.
miles.
' a mile.
l of a mile,
of a mile.
I'S.
Ill' a mile.
'". ;' of a njile.
'. i W. -Ji miles.
vij miles.
Buzzard's Bay,
, in Crom 4 to 4i
ise, of several rc-
igues.
V S. nearly.
agues.
'oster's Harbor,
south-weshcard,
Island iiound ;
e Block Island.
' lights situated
ixed lights, bear,
level of the sea.
ung it dangerous
aT K! ^^' I' () K ^f I I A K li X) 'R jHY TAI"^ W.\l)SW()KTII,i;rMj|.i|,xKy. M'ILKi:SAIil,.*Ki:. I ', si. ,\
1
iY (\\I''M\'AI)SW()l«TII.IiTM;MI)XKY. WILKKS.VHLAKK.T^ s"^. ,\
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■ >ni II wiM«i<*ii>Miiki
•wr><v«-«VMP'
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
199
on the N. W. point of tliis island, (
appear as one light until you are '
point, a shoal mikes out N. j E., \^ ;ii
described in the nyte,) are so near together, the
liin two or three miles of them. OlF the N. \V
renders it danjerous
> pass
h renders it dangerous for large ships to
within two miles of the lights. ♦Point .ludith Lis;ht bears from these lights N. E.
distant 11 miles. After passing Point Judith, follow flie directions given below forsail-
ing into Newport.
b^om tiie S. E. part of Block Island to Rhode IslaAd Lighthotise, the course UN;
by E. if E. and the distance 7 leagues ; about uudway between therfj there are 24 fathoms
water. If you are on the west side of Block Island, with the body wf the island bearing E.
iN. E. in 8 or 10 fathoms water, your course to Point Judith Light is N. E. by E. about 6
leagues. This point appears like a nag's head, and is pretty bold ;, between Block Isl-
and and the Point, there are from 30 to 6 fathoms water, ej^cept a small sboal ground,
which, in tliick weather, is often a good departure, say 4 to 5 fathoms, bearing about W.
by S.'from Point Judith I-i^ht, distant 3 miles. From Point Judith, when not more
than a quarter of a iriile from the point to Rhode Island Harbor, your course is N. E.,
and the distance is about 8 miles. When in 13 fatholl^s water. Point Judith light bear-
ing \V. or W. by N. the course to Rhode Island Hhrbor is N. E. by N. ^ N., and the • !
distance to the lighthouse 2 leagues. The li^'^.tliouse, together with the Dumplios, ^
must be left on your larboard hand ; it stands on the south part ,of f Conannicot Island.
This point is called the Beaver's Tail, and is about 2 leagues distant from ^oiat Jttdttlh , 'i
After leaving the lighthouse on your larboard siiJp, there is a $ttnk'eii tfi^Ok due sontb ' V
from the lighthouse, about 200 yards distant, called Newton Rock.
A little within the lighthouse, and near to the shore on the west side, ther^ is acpve
called .Mackerel Cove, the entrance to which is shoal and dangerous. As bom ends* of
these islands are pretty bold, you may pass into the anchoring at either end, and"K8Bt.V\^'|
nearer to t^ioat Island side tiian to that of Rhode Island, as the other parts of the hnctm^ I sl
are grassy, and would be apt to choke your anchors. Rhode Island is navigable all rodQdj^' •&'
by keeping in the middle of the channel. " , '^
Narraganset Bay lies between Conannicut Island and the main. Your cottr|l^ai|. {^'
about north, taking care to avoid Whale Rock; you may pass in on either aide, i|inRl|^«j|k^ •• .
chor where you please. From the lighthouse on Conannicut Island tO:0W HMmI* WfA^
Martha's Vineyard Island, the course is E. by S. 3^i..*pd the distance 9 feinies,
Vou must take care to avoid the rocks which IW^ffLfllouth frorai Castle fiiil, Ml|
which are above water. Castle Hill is oi/the east sid(S of Rhode Island HarbcKk'!
from which is Fort Adams, from the north end of which a reef exteudn.
Vessels coming from the eastward, to clear Brenlon's Reef, bring Newport
bear \V. N. W., and steer for it until they see (xoat Island Light from the d^
oal," Montock Point Lib»iitbiNiSff'f
N..; Watch HiU I4c{|thotlK. Wl
LHead, S. E. by Bk ^E.; aui M'i
for a vessel to pass within 2 miles of the light. From thif ^
S. W. by W. i W. ; Point Judith Point Lighthouse N.
W. ; Clay Huad (Block Ishiiid) S. L. hv E. ; Rocks qfe
W. pi>t of Jilock Island, S. S. W. J VV.
Tlic two lighis cannot be iiiude separate wheQ to the' north werd, Unless id «;p«utionte' aggltfllil^r^ffi
Point Judith Li^ht N, E., svlien they appear like the lights ofa stfiaai>b(^t. '/'ii^U
* The lighthouse on Point Judith is u stone edifice, 40 feet. ^b< The lampp.ars 60 fiwItU
the level of the sea, and contain a leNUjlving light, to distinguish it from Newpart Lijpit,^
stands on Conannicut Island, and is a fixed light. The distance fi^in the K|^tbt>ni^ tct ^h W^t^*
mark, is as follows : — E. from tlie lighthouse to high water mark, 16 rods; S. EJ. 14 rodA; S. tX
rods ; S. S. W. 23 rods, which is the extreme part of the point, to which a good berth Bflouldr
given. The light on Point Judith hears S. W. ^ S. 2 leagues distant from Newpott (Rhode MS^
and) Lighthouse. Point Judith Light mav be distinguished froin Wat6h HiU Light, bjr.'the UlA^^
notwholly disappearing when within 3 leagues of it. " j« . ^'■'■!a::1I
+ Conannicut Island lies about 3 miles west of Newport, the soathend of whloh (called th*,»"
ver's Tail, on which Newport Lighthouse stands,) extends about %i far south aathe South .
Rhode Island. The .igiithouse on Goat Island bears N. 60^ E. irom the lighl on ConannKJW|^i^'*''^
and, and Kettle-bottoni Rock N. E. The east shore forms the wess part of Newport Harbori ^^ftie
ground tlie lighthouse stands upon is about 12 feet above the surface of th(f sea at hifh'wp^r.
From the ground to the top of the cornice is [y) feet, round which is a gallery, and^ttihithatSt&Qdi
the lantern, which is about 11 feet high, and 8 feet in diameter. It contains afixra.%ht.
\ Goat Island lies.beforfe the town of Newport, about 5 miles N. E. from Newport^H^ :^(l^°
has a lighthouse on the north end, containing a fixed light, from which the following beaHt
been taken :— Newport Lighthouse bears S. GO W., equal to S. W. by W. J W., diaJJniitfiL __
west shore of Castle Hill, S. 54 W.,orS. W. } W., 2^ ; Brentonis Point, S. 51,W.,*W S. "llg,
W. 1 ; South Dumphn Rock, S. 70 W., or W. S. \V. i W., I* ; Conannicut #eny?N. 1^t'Wn| ,
or W. N. W. i W., 2i ; south point of Rose Island, N. 58i VV., or N. W. by W. flW, J,} titaftf
Rock, N. m W., or N. by W., } ; West shore of Coster's Harbor Island, N„ Hj/lWOj: <ii|«|t|f?^
north point of Goat Island, N. 50 E., or N. ^ E., i. Large vessels go south of jhe1>*ii^ '''i'!^^M^
r/ fir II 'tffiilni/Ahifcff:
200
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
L/
will then bear N. E. J E. ; then run for Goat Island Light until it bears E., (or continue
your course until it bears E. S. E.,) at the same time iteeping Newport Light bearing
S. W. by W., and anchor in 7 to 9 fathoms, good bottom. In coming from the west, af-
ter passing Point Judith, (the lighthouse whereon has a revolving light,) steer N. E. by
N. until you draw up with Newport Light, to which giving a berth, run for Goat Island
Light, and anchor as above directed. Goat Island lies before the town of Newport, ex
tends about north and south, and has a fort on it ; olf the N. £. point lies a buoy in 16
feet water.
A large white buoy is'also placed at the end of the shoal, which makes out from the
south end of the island, in 10 feet water. The shore on the north and south ends is
rocky, and you must not attempt going between the buoys and the island.
Vessels coming from the westward through Long Island Sound, bound to Rhode Isl-
and, will leave Fisher's Island on the larboard hand, and steer E. by N., which will
carry them to Point Judith, keeping in not less than 10 fathoms water, giving the point
a berth of one mile, when you will see Newport Light, bearing N. E. ^ N., distant 6
miles; steer for it, leaving it on your larboard hand : you will then steer for Goat Island
Light, which bears from Newport Light N. E. distant about 3 miles; keeping the latter
bearing S. W. by W, until you l^ing Soat Island Light to bear E. or E. S. £., and an-
chor in from 7 to 9 fathoms wa <•, good holding ground. Between Newport Light and
the North Dumplin, you will I.a s from 1 8 to 28 fathoms water.
If, after passing Point Judith, as before direi.ted, you wish to proceed toward Provi-
dence through the West Passage, your course is N. E., leaving Newport Light (on Co-
nannicat Xilftnd) on your starboard hand, half a mile distant, when your course will be
N. by Wj J.^ league to Dutch Island Light,* which you also leave on your star' imrd
hand, on^U9t|er of a mile distant, from which you steer N. | E. 14 miles, for the light
fj^n fWarii^)iel&*'Neck, leaving it on the larboard hand, one quarter of a mile, where you
Jttty imchdr m 3 fathoms waterf as it is, not safe to proceed furtlier without a pilot, un-
rest you choose to depend on finding the channel, which is marked out by stakes.
la entering this passage, keep nearest Conanniuut Island, to avoid the Whale Rock,
which beam from Newport Light S. 83^ 30' W., distant about three fourths of a mile,
•with somci scattering rocks north and south of it. A sunken rock lies south of Beaver
Tail, called Newton Rock, on which it breaks if there be any sea, distant 2UU yards from
Khode Island Lighthouse.
., BUOYS AND SPINDLES PLACED AT NEWPORT HARBOR.— A Spindle
^OD-Saddle Rock, eastward of Rose Island, on either side of which there is a passage.
A Spindle with a Ball on a Rock, at the south end of the island, which you leave to
rard.
,.. le JGMd) Buoy, with a Cross, on Dyer's Reef, south part of Coaster's Harbor, which
|«i^ve QQ the starboard hand..^.-
'^iv^:tlM ledge otl'the Bi8hi^!!s Rock, called the Triangle Rock, on either side of
(ihyOft vmy pass, giving th6 t)tt<iy a berth.
Oilitt jRAd Sjpar Buoy at the south, and one at the north end of Gull Rocks, both of
•i«;hich jTM pass to the eastward. .
Qnt'Spar Buoy oo Providence Point, which is the north end of Prudence Island, to
^e JdoUhKtiYd of which is- the main channer.
inEWPOjR-T TO PROVIDENCE.— Pass Half-way Rock, which lies nearly in
niifldlc^f the river, about 5J miles from Newport, and 1^ mile from the south end of
Pcudmice Island; there is a passage on both sides the Rock. West from Prudence
Islaod, lies Hope Island, having a passage all round, giving the N. E. end a small berth.
From the Triangle Ilock, which lies off the Bishop Rocks, on which is a Buoy that
.mpy be passed oa eithw side, to Warwick Neck Light, the course is N. } W. After
leaving Prudftnce Island Smiles N. E- by N. from Warwick Neck Light, you pass on
■VOur wrboard hand a Spar^Buoy. which you may go very close to. E. }^ S. from Warwick
^NMt Light lies a Spar Buoy, which you leave on the starboard hand. When Warwick
Neck Light bears W. steer N. N. E. for Nyatt Point Light, leaving the Spar Buoy on
Providence Point on the starboard hand, and running so far to the eastward as to bring
Prudence Islanid to bear South, by which you leave the Middle Ground, which has a
Buoy on it, on the larboard hand. Nyatt Point Light is on the starboard hand, and 9
Btiles from Providence. Soon after passing the light you come up with a Pyramid,
directly opposite the village of Patuxent, the base of which is painted black, with a white
• Duttlflsland Lighthouse is erected on the south part of the island, and shows n fixed light.
t Warwick Neck Lighthouse is erected on the south part of Warwick Neck, and shows a fixed
Iigirt.j Jk. spar buoy is placed on Long Island Point, off Warwick Harbor, 1^ mile distant, which
nost l^'toft— i tfia larboard hand going into East Greenwich.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
201
E., (or confinne
t Light bearing
-om the west, af-
,) steer N. E. by
for Goat Island
of Newnort, ex
Hes a buoy in 16
ics out from the
nd south euds is
nd.
nd to Rhode Isl-
r N., wliich will
, giving the point
i, I N., distant (>
r for Goat Island
iceping the latter
E. S. £., and an-
ewport Light and
ed toward Provi-
jrt Light (on Co-
)ur course will be
in your star' u ird
(liles, for the light
J mile, where you
ithout a pilot, un-
it by stakes,
the Whale Rock,
fourths of a mile,
s south of Beaver
nt 200 yards from
30R.— A Spindle
e is a passage.
'hich you leave to
r's Harbor, which
on either side of
ill Rocks, both of
rudence Island, to
:;h lies nearly in
the south end of
from Prudence
end a small berth.
ch is a Buoy that
I N. J W. After
ight, you pass on
S.from Warwick
When Warwick
the Spar Buoy on
stward as to bring
und, which has a
board hand, and 9
p with a Pyramid,
jlack, with a white
w9 a fixed light.
k, and shows a fixeil
\ mile distant, which
top, erected on a ledge of rocks, which you may approach very near, leaving it to the
larboard hand. Afa short distance you come to another pyramid, and a stake, both
which you leave on your larboard hand. One fourth of a mile from the last pyramid
lie Lovett's Rocks, having a spar buoy on tbcm, which must be left on the starboard
hand, going very near to thcni.
BRISTOL HARBOR.— Bristol Harbor lies 9 milesfrom Nevport, and east of War-
wick Light. At the mouth of the harbor lies Castle Island, hxyin^ a pyrami'd on it,
which is left on the starboard hand, and a red buoy on the larbqfitu, steering N. E. when
entering. '.,,
ST(i\INGTON HARBOR AND FISHER'S ISLiAND.— If off the south-east
part of Fisher's Island, bring the highest steeple in the town of Stoningtou open to the
east of Stonington *Lighthouse, and steeer for it N. 6° E. until Watch Hill bears east,
when you will have passed through Lord's Channel, which is between the Spindle OD
Wicopessett Island Ledge, and the Spindle on Catumb Ledge, you will then be in 12 to 13
fiithoms water, then steer N. Westerly to clear the shoal water extending from Bartlett's
Reef, until thu light i)ears N. by E. when you may 'Iteejr directly for the lighthouse or
the Breakwater, into the harbor. \^ *
If you should be to the eastward of Watch fJill I^ht and bound through Fisher'B
Island Sound, give the Light a berth of one-third of a mile, and steer W. 4 N. until the
Light on Stonington Point ranges with the highest steeple in the tovni, when you may
steer as al)ove directed, into Stonington, or if bound west, you may continue yotir CourtR ,
on, passing the spindle on Latimer's Reef, on your starboard hand, about ISOyturcIs, until
Stonington Light bears E. N. E. and the house on E„«m Island N. W. when you may •,
steer W. S. W. and pass directly between the north and South f Dumptins, whi^h are two '
small islets of moderate height. Ou steering the last course, you wilM«pve Ellis' Reef^
on which is a Spindle, on your starboard hand, aiul East Rock, Middle aniJ W^t Clumpa^
on your larboard ; the three last are reefs of rodKs trending W. by S. and E. bjr^N. be* '
tween the South Dumplin and Latimer's Reef. . '
Should you go the southern channel, you will, on passing Latimer's Reef, keep over
towards Fisher's Island and steer about W. ^ S. to avoid East Rock, and the Middle an(|
West Clumi)3, which are nearly covered at high water, until the centre of what is calleij*
tFlat Hummock bears north, distant three-fourths of a mile, and the W. poifitof Fisher'f
Island in sight, bearing W. ; New London Liglithousf will then be open between the^ovlfk
Dumplin and Fisher's Island, when yuu may steer for it N. W. ^ W* keeping in mi^
channel, to avoid the shoal water off the west point of West Harbor, and the shoal *l^Bli«
I'uts otf between the South Dumplin and the Flat Hummock, in th6 fo)m of,a Ho
shoe, until you have passed the Dumplins, when you are clear of all danger. Sc
the Dumplins and Flat Hummock, is the west harbor of Fisher's Island, whei
good aneliorage in 2.' fathoms, soft bottom, Flaft Huijamock bearing north
point of the harbor W. N. W. Ellis' RcvA', on which is a spindle, lies south^l
on Ram Island, distant about one-third of a mile, between which there is.av^
passage of 5 fathoms water. Potter's Reef lies N. W. A W. from the North,
distnnt one mile, between which tlien; is a line passage, free from all danger; this
is of small extent, and has a spindle on it, wliich may. be passed on either side. Wi^J-l?^?^
from Ram Island, and halfway to Potter's Reef, is. the extreme point of Groton Lon^.^
Reef. This is a conspicuous point on Fisli'er's Islai^d Saand, and may be knOwVbtr ^
ig cleared of trees at the south part ; it is not to be*ipproached froip the south ii^i^& .
tlian half a mile. — A shoal called the Horse-shoe; lies'W. of Grotoi! LoQg Point, aa^r
licina: cleared of trees at the
Long
N. E. from Potter's Reef; as there is no spindle on the^ Horse-shoe, vessels shoulli
avoid going much to the north of Potter's Reef.
"I'liere is good anchorage to the east of (iioton Lohg Point, in 2| fkthoms, soft botf '
toni, distant from the shore one-third of a mile. . , ■ * • ^^ .4-
After you have passed Fisher's Island Sound, you should be careful to keep the Sott{)|L
Dumplin in range with the N. E. point of Fisher's Island, to clesfr the Triangle Rockf,
which form the south poiut of Bartlett's U-vi', on which there is a bufiy* Whew ^wo
tree Island bears N. by W. or Little (inll N. by E. you are,pa$t this danger, and H^^
follow the general directions up the Sound.
— _ . ■■ ■ . I .1 ^^iifirt
* Stonington Lighthouse shows a fixed light, on the extreme point of land at Stjjninlitttoni and bears
from Watch Hill Point Lighthouse, N. W. i W. 2 miles distant ; from Naper Tree Poini^* N. W. .
}W. liniile; from Cntumbsott Rocks spindle N. 2 J mile. Wicopessett N. by E. 2 nuj|fc. Jm^
imorc's Reef, N. E. ^ E. 2 milea. Wamphasgett Shoal,. E. i N. haU'a mile. North J^af
by N. } N. 5^ milea distant.
t The North DumpUn is bold to, except on the east side. ;•
t Flat Hununock is a batren sandy island, of a few acres in extent.
26
•>i:''
-(<-•-
I
'202
fiLUNT S AMERKCAIV COAST PILOT*.
m
If bound through from tho wrstwnrrl, yon nhoiild on no acconnt go to the «outbwarff
of the South Duiii|)liii, Iml simulil, .il'ifr [liissinfj; oiilicr liftwecn thv lJiini| litis or to ihf
north of them, bring Stiminmon Li<:lit to luiir K. N. K. iitid run lor it until the Ureak-
water bears north, wiicn you ni;iy steer lor tlw :iim1ioi;i<;(>.
If you wish to pass lhniUi.li tin- Suiiiid, vlieti .Stonmctoti Lii;lit bfius E. N. E., and
the House and'Kwn Island iN. W., sti'or E. ,\ .S. for Watc h liill Liulil, leavitisr Lati-
mer's Keef on your IJirboard hand, ami {.'ivinc Na)'] ertrer I'oint and \\ at( li Hill I'oinr
a berth of uboutone ihird of a tnilc, kavint; \\ ale li II ill WvA, do tlic east end ol wliith
is a spindle, on your starboard liand. 'J Ins siiiiidic In ais iK.ni \\ at( li Hill liiulit S. S.
W. ':! VV., distant about two thirds of a mile. A rods, with 0 feet water on it, lies boulh
from Watch Hill Point, distant about one eijilifli of a niilo.
Fisher's Island Sound is perfectly sale wiili tlie foreiidiiiij diiTctions, and to be |)rp-
ferred if bound east on the flood, or west with an ehl) tide, to fioini; iLri)U;;li (lie Karo,
but it should not be attempted without a leiidiii;^ wind, by strangers, and great attention
•hould be paid to the lead.
The Eel-grass Shoals lie between Ram Island and Stoninjrton Tjiiilit, and extend in
■pots for some distance; the largest of these si oals lit s south of the *\\'liite Kock, but
you are clear of them when Stonington l^i^'lu hears K. N. E.
RHODE ISLAND LltiHT & THKOlCll TIIK !<()rND.— The fir^t course from
Rhode Island Ligl^thoiiscon Beav»r;fail I'oiiit, is S. W. ! S., distant •> leagues to Toint
Judith Light; thehce from Point Juijiih Light ihrouiihthe IJace to fLittleduil Liffht,
the course is W. by S , 11 leagues distant, leaving t^^ ;»i<li Hill Point iiiglit, Stoning-
ton Lightt and Fisher's Islaud'Jn your siarlioanl hand, and Little (lull L^ht on your
larboard 'h<i.:d. Ynu nmst be careful to avoid a n-ef wlii' li ifi:s oil' (iiiu tlio west of
Fisher's Itland, "W. S. W. ,l;jivj«ards Eaco Ko< k, on wliicli is a .-i ir.dio, distant one mile
from the point of the islatddv and whiih you must leave on your starboard hand, and
oontin'de your course until the Little Gull is south ol you. if the tide should bo flood,
about oirf* mile; if the tide shpuld be eb!). vdu sIhiuIiI. as soon ns »he I^iltle (Jull bears
west, (iqtf iJSlew London Light in range with the hi'.'iest steeple in the town (N. 2" W.)
Steer D.4i^'Westeriy, until it is soMth of you •-.* miles, when you may sleer W. j N. for
IIFalkntti^'iB Island Light, distant 8 leai-ues, on whicli course you should be careful to
avoid tKe Long Sand Shoal, off. Cornfield Point, and whi( h exti iids east and west ."i
tniles. Should you m- ke the above coui:#s good, you will, when ollCoriif'ield Point, be
H nplle south of the shoalest part. 1 liis s-lmal is very naM<iw, and as you ai'i'roaeh it,
- jN)U 'iiii»,8hoalen your water froiU'12to 2 fail oms very suddenly, ^'ou .'loukl in the
{ht t^oie corae no nearer to Falkner's Island, when north of you. tlian 14 fathoms.
berths of a liiile distant,) when you may steer S.W. by W. 'I W. for HUId Field
jht, 8 leagues, which ca*ries you to iho soutli of ilie IMiddle (ironnd. You
J@'iil['wfiBB'im>e no nearer Old Field-Point than Plai! oms, (distant half a Uiile.) in tlie night ;
^^jit bears south ofyoU, ateec W. -i N. 17 miles, wlii<li will take you to the north
fl^OTo'i Neck, in 13 fathoms water, leaving iXorwalk Li^hr, which is revolving, on
tint 8lw|K>ard hand, and ^'Huntington Light (on Eaton'.s Isock) on your larboard hand,
• Mniljte Rock lies E. N. E. froiU'Ra^ Island, lialf way to ilio lii;li;lioupc on Stonington Point,
^nd is itWays conspicuous.
t Little Grull liightis situated on liil^jp Ool! Ipl.-ird. at <I;o entrance nf Lonp Inland Pound, tliroiifrh
th« Race. This light mtij he considifjrod as ibi- !• cy to tlic Souiul The lantern is elevated .50 I'eot
above the level of the sea, and conmfns n fixed l:;.!it.
t Watch Hill Light is 8itu(tfe<1 on Watch Ilill, at the entrance of Fi.'bci's hlnnd Sound. The Ian.
tern is elevated 50 feet abpve the level of tl.c ecn, and c n,taiiis a revolving lijrht.
§ New London Light is located at the entrance efil'.e larbor. mi the wcf^tern .^iic'e. The lantern
is elevated 80 feet above th» level of the sea, coiilain» a fixed li^ht, and bears E. N. E. frum Link-
Gull Light, about 2i leagues.
II Falkland Island Lighthouse is elevated 75 feet above the level of the sea, and exhibits a fixnd
light.
1 The lightnoUBe on Old Field Point shows a fixed li^ilit, having 10 Innii s. elrvated (57 fcc^t above
dt9 sea, and 27 Feet frotnthe bnfe. It bonis fioin Eaton'.s Neck Lijaht N. hi)'^ fi' E.. 1~J miles dip-
tuit. From Stratford Light S. 9<=> W., ]().,' miles distant. From Iiia<k Rock Light S. 19^ 4' E., 11
miles distant. ' From New Haven Light S. 3P ii8' W. l!-| miles distant.
*• Eaton's Neck lighthouse contains 12 lamps, frontinir from the east round north to the south-
west, elevated 134 feet above the level of the sea, and 4!) feet 8 inches from its base, showing a
fixed light. It bears S. 5° 15' E. from Norwalk Light, distant .'> miles and nine tenths. A reef ex-
tends from the light N. N. E. hall a mile, on which are a miinber of rocks.
Vessels shoulj} not como nearer the shore than three fourths of a mile, when the light bears be-
tifeon weal and south. On the west »ide the shore is sandy and pretty bold.
iA-
-^.. ..,
BLUNT a AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
203
po to flip soutbwarff
' lMiiii| liris or to lh(r
>r it until the Dreak-
: iH'iiis E. N. E., Jinrf
Liijlii, Icavitnj liUli-
<l \\ :it( li Hill Point
lie r;isi end (iluliich
Kli Hill liiiiiit S. S.
atcr (111 it, lies south
tions, and to be pie-
L' Iliriiii:;!] llic R;wv,
, and gnat attention
^ii;lit, and extend in
e *\Vliite Kock, but
Phe first course from
It •.' leagues to I'oint
) f Liitictj'ull Liftlit,
lint Lifilit, Stoninju-
(Inll Jj^ht on vonr
nil' (i( m (lie ucst of
lie, dislanr one niilc
Marboard hand, and
ido should be (lood,
ho J.ittie (hill boars
h(> loHii (i\. 13" W.)
V sltor W. I N. for
-liould be careful to
ids east and west 5
'(.'ornf'ejrl Point, be
as von ai'proaeh it,
^'on j1 (luid in tbc
I. than 14 fathoms, ■
W. for llOld Firld
i!lc (iroiitid. You
Uiilo.) in the niyht ;
l<e you ti) the north
li is revolvio",, on
yourlarboaid hand,
on Stonington Point,
?lnnd Sound, ihroiipii
•rn is elevated 50 (coi
nd Sound. The bin-
II pi(V. The lantern
E. N. E. from Link-
and exhibits a fxful
If vnird (!7 feet above
ti' v.., V:i miles dis.
.igbt H. iyJ4' E., 11
1 north to the soutli.
its Iinsc, showing a
! tenths. A reef ex-
n the light bears be>
from whence you may steer S. G()° W., whicli will take you between *Sands' Point and
Kxcculion Koeks, on the latter of which, on the east end, is a buoy, bearine; N. by W.
from the li^lit, distant seven ci^iiths of a mile. If, when u|) with Falkland Island, you
should [uefer ■j,\>\t\-^ to the north of the Middle (irouiid, steer W. .' S. for fStratford Light
'20 miles, an I i^ivm;^ it a berth of half a mile, in ;3_, fathoms water, steer S. 66° W. for
Sand's Point Li^htJioiise. ' '
In ease ol'dtod tide and southerly wind, wlien yon eonie througb'^ie Race, your course
should be \V. , S. Miilil you eoiii" up wiiii Old l-'ield Point light, «*lstant 16 leagues, taking
care to .illow for the tide, whieli runs very strong, and (lows o(h the full and chanae days
of tin' moon nniil halt pa.it 11 o'el.)clv. In eomin.; up with "Old Fiild Point light, you
slionld not In in;; it to bear to the West of W. by S. ', S. on account of a shoal off Mount
Misery, or if in the day time, keep Crane Neck, which is a bhilf, two miles to the west of
the li^ht, open clear of tiie liy;lit, and pass the point in 8 fathoiusi iw above directed
If a ship I Diild hav a fair deparluit^ iVom the middle.of the Kace, and is compelled to
rim in a darX ni-hi, or in tliiiK weather, tiic Inst eiuirse would be west 15 leagues toward
Stratford lijit, as it wuiild alford iho largest run on any one course, and if made good, will
carry you 1 , mile southof .Stralliird Point lisiht in 6 fathoms water, and 4 miles to the north
of the Middle (Irouiid: mi fliis coins' ymi will leave Saybrook, Falkland Island and New
Haven li;:htsouyour siai board liaiid. l. i'liiiiili IsLiid light on your larboard band; and will
pass three miles soul li of Falkfinl Uiaiidsin 17 fatljaius water. When up with Stratford
Iig4it, and it bears north 1 '. mile distant, your course to Sand's Point light is W. S. W.
11 leagues. We^t of Str ilford light, 1 ', mile is I'oint-no-Polnt, which is shoal for some
distance fnnii the sliore, but ymi are clear of it when Black Rock Vght bears .W. ? N.
Slioiild \fiii wi<h to anchiir under Falkner's Island, there is good holding ground on
the east or west side; in J', and :> fithoms wafer, but the best place with the wind froi|l
the west, is close to tiie N. K. point oi the Islaij^, the lighthouse bearing S. W. by S. ift
'■i\ fathoms. North from the island a narrow shoal puts off one quarter of a mile, and M
bold to. but you are to liie north of it, when the centre of Go.ose Island bears 3, W. by
\V., and wjico ihe li^lit bears S. K. by K. you may run for it and anchor. •;
The passsge inside of b'alkiier's Island -is perfectly safe, but you should iU)tiin stand-
ing over tovvards tiie Connecticut shore, bring Ilaminonasset Point to the souih of east.
This point may be known by having two small bi nil's at tlie extremity, and it heart E< N.E-
from I'alklaiid s Island, distant o', inili!s. When standing to the S. towards Gooselsland,
you should he careful of th" Shoal extending to the north of it, and you are just clfcar of
it wiien Falkner's hjand light bears K. S. K. and (Joose Island S. by "W. in 2i^ fitthfSmit;
rocky boilom ; after you have passed (loose Islands you should keep more totj^sout'""
ward, to avoid Whetfon's and i>rown's Keef lying'olVthe Thimble Islands, and.T'
Reef, which is dry at very low tides: on this Reefin a buoy bearing from F
land Light W. '; S. distant i>'' miles, and from New Haven light S. E. by E.
■'} miles. To the north of l>ranlord Reef therQ is a gpod passage, but it shoiDlf
temiited by strangers witliout a favorable oppoHunity ; but in case you shot
Iielled to navigate as during the late war, you may, after passing Goose Islam
liglithouse to hear K. S E. and steer W. N. W. for the outer Thimble, givin| It a'
of .'it) or 40 yards, then sicerW. ,', S., on which course, if made good, you will keep '
tlie outer Kock of the Thinibli! in ranj;e with the large Hotel dn Sachem's Head,'Mtern olf '
you. N'csscis rd' any draft of water may go through^this passage, and you #ill leave
Whettcm's Itcef, which is one fourth of a mile S. Si-W. from the outer Thildfale, and
Hrown's Reef, on wliich there is a huay. on your la^oard hand, and ThimblC Buoy to
the west id" tlie Thinilde, liall'a mile, and tlie buoy on the Nigger Heads, on ybur star- '
board hand: this ranL;e lakes you wiiliin 100 yards of the Njgger Head Buoy, and about
seven ei^hihs id a mile north of llranford's lleef, when you may steer W- by S. -i-S for
Stratford Point, (hiose Island is W. S. W. from Falkland's Island, one mile distatit.—
It is shoal (Hi the Fast and Nortli sides, and a resting ])lace for;|e;xilis, which are purposely
left uiidisiurhed, as their noise serves to give notice of yoiu* approach to the Island in
thick weather. ■ »«
♦Sands' Point Liuhthousc is N. 42^ 30' E. from Throg's Point Light, distant 4 miles and six
tenths. Tiie rucks exieiul I'nan tlu^ shuie opposite the iiirht, N. W. one eighth of a mile.
tStrar)rd Li<,diihouse coiiiiiins ii revolvinp iifrlii. Tlie revolution is such as to's^ihibit the Ij^bt
once in !)0 seconds. From it Old Field Piiint Li<;ht. on Long Island, hears S. 9^ W. ; NewLlaven ■
Li^ht N. fi;p E., 10 miles distant; Middle Ground tf. 3^ VV., 5^ miles distant ; Black Rock Light
S. 880 'W.
t A lighthouse, elevated 63 feet above the level of the sen, .exhibiting a revolving light, ia«reeted
on the west end of Phimh Island, and will be of great advantage to vessels bound to the east^ViliC • .
or round Montock Point, when, through stress or foggy weather, itisnotprudeift togothroughllM- -
Race.
,ji,tm
204
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
S. \ \V. from Stratford IIkIiI, distant !}\ miles is the Middle ftround, the cntranre of
which bears from Katoii's Neik Liiilit F'. hv N. J N., IT) miles. From *Black Rock
Light S. E. i S., 7.', Imilcs; and from ( )l(Hield Point Light N. hy E. | E., distant o
tnileb. On this shoal are two (wt water at low tide; on the south side is a white spar
buoy, andon^he north side a black si)ari)imy, both in 1') feet water, bearing nearly north
by east and sotith Jjy wot from each other, half a mile distant. Von may qo on ei-
ther side of the shoal you please: on the n irlli are from ."5 to 11 fathoms, and on the
south side from 8 to 24 fathoms water; a mile either to the east or west of this shoal
you will have 12 fathoms.
A ledge lies off the N. E. point of Eaton's Ne( k. tliree fourths of a mile from the shore,
but after the light bears S. E. the shore is bold to ali the way up on the east side of Hunt-
ington Bay, where you may anchor in easterly winds.
In beating up Sound, wlien Eaton's Neek Liuht bears S. W. by S., you should not
stand over to the north shore nearei than to brin^' Norwalk f/ight to bear \V. by S. 4 S.
on account of the reef which puts oil I'mm Caukoen Island E. by S. 1,^ mile, and on
which there is a buoy. When Goose Island, which is the first island S. \V. from Cau-
keen, is west from you, you are south of .1. reef. '^Pliere is a passage for small vessels
between these islands, but to the i^est of (ioose Island there is no passage, as tin; reefs
extend to the buoy on Green Ledge, one mile W. by S. ^ S. from S'orw alk Light. W.
by S. from Norwalk Light, 3 miles distant, is Long Neck Point : there is good anchor-
age to the eastward of it when the light bears cast from you, but when you are to the
west of Long Neck Point, you should be (areful of Smith's Kcef, which lies S. W. one
Aile^frora it, and also of a reef called the ("ows, whi( h is also S. W. from Long Neck
Point,' 22" miles, and south from Shipjjan Point, three fourths of a mile, on botli which
there are buoys, and they are bold to until you are close on the rocks. After you pass
the Cows, the first point is Greenwich Point, wliich is bare of trees, and is the S. E.
point of a neck of land running into the Sound, the S. W. point of which is called Flat
Neck Po.int, and covered with trees ; the water off both these points is shoal. The east-
ernmost of the Captain's Isles, lies S. W. by W. from Flat Neck Point, 1| mile distant.
between ivhichis a fair passage, but in going in you must keep halfway between Flat
Neck Point and the island, on account of the rocks extending N. E. from the island,
and S. E. from the point, and steer north, and when Flat Neek bears east you may an-
' ch'Or. The passage between Captain's Islands and the main, should not be raiempted
by a stranger. Captain's Islands are three in number, tlie largest of which is the west-
^<f niniost one, which has a lighthouse on its east end, showing a fixed light, bearing from
~2rwalk Light W. by S. f S., distant 10^ miles ; from Eaton's Neck Light, W. by N.
liinules, and from Sand's Pbjnt Light N. E. 4 N., 9 miles. You may approach
'^ islands, but after you have passed them to" the west, you should keep at least
iJfrom the shore, on account of several rocks and reefs between those islands
l^^tnd' 'fiiBpp'iffilit.
On-^ie south shore of the^'Soundi ^fter passing Eaton's Point to the westward, is
L^|d*i( Neck, the north point of which is low and sandy, E. by N. from which is a reef
•on which there is a buoy, lying off the highest bluff, half a mile from the shore : the
»'jTCef is vety small andrhas 3 fathomsjclose to it. To clear this reef, and the Sandy Point,
you should not bring Eaton's Neck Light to the N. of E. i S. in passing it. To the
wesf^if Loyd's Neck i^ Oyster Bay, in standing in towards which you should be care-
* Black Rock light on Fnirweather's Island at the entrance of Blnck Rock harbor, rcpulnrly dis-
plays a strong avid brilliant light, on the improved plan of Capt. Winslow Lewis. This edifice is of
§n octagon form, built of stone, in the most durnble manner, 19 feet diameter at the base, where the
walls, &e exterior of which are kandsoniely faced with hewn free stone, are 5 feet in thickncps, and
rise to the height of 31 feet, surmounted with a plaiform of solid masonry, which Buppnrts the lantern
40 feet above high water mark. The building is painted white, defended from the sea'l)ya stronfr cir-
cular fortification of massy rocks, is in every respect faitlifnily built, and prepared to withstand the
storms of ages, and reflects no litUe credit on the faithfulness and skill of its enterprising builders. —
Black Rock harbor, from its central situation, is one of frreat importance to vessels navigating the
Sound, at all seasons of the year, especially in winter. Is'cxt to the harbor of New London, it is the
most safe and convenient on the whole coast of Connecticut, admitting vessels of a large draft of wa-
.ter at all times of tide. During the inclemencies of winter, when the communication with New-York
is obstructed <vith i«e, numerous vessels and of all sizes, are not unfrequently compelled to seek a
harbor here for weeks together, where they ride secure from the drifting ice, and the violence of every
wind, in the immediate neighborhood of a flourishing commercial village, capable of furnishin;?
•Very tjcc^isary repair, stores, or rcfresluncnts that may be required, and on as good terms as in
iriij' of our larger sea-ports.
J&emarJc by tne,Author. — The above is literally copied from a Newspaper, and is said to be written
by one of the contractors. A more contemptible Lighthouse does not disgrace Long Island Sound,
moft sh^efully erected and badly kept. (1828)
inrl, the entrance of
'loiii *Black Rock
1^ K. I E., (listnnt 5
side is a wliite spar
xarinii nearly north
Von may i,'o on v\-
itlioins. and on tin-
• west of tliis shoal
nilo from the shore,
c east side of liunt-
S., you should not
lear W. hy S. ■] S.
S. 1.'; mile, and on
I S. W. from Caii-
;e for small vessels
ssape, as tin; reefs
nvalk Lii,rht. W.
re is iiood anelior-
leu you are to the
ieh lies S. W. one
from Lone; Neck
ile, on hoiii uliicli
i. After you pass
, and is the S. K.
iiich is called Flat
shoal. Tlie east-
t, l\ mile distant,
way between Flat
i. from the island,
east you may an-
not be niiempted
hich is the west-
ght, bearing from
Light, AV. by N.
ou may approach
juld keep at least
een those islands
the westward, is
m which is a reef
the shore : the
the Sandy Point.
siniT it. "To the
I should be care-
irbor, rcpiilnrly di.e.
This edifice is of
ho base, where the
t in thickncfs, and
iiipports tlie lantern
poan)y a stronp- cir-
•d to withstand the
rprising builders.—
sels navigating the
w London, it is the
1 large draft of wa-
m with New. York
onipelled to seek a
e violence of ever"
ible of furnishin;?
good terms as in
J said to be written
ang Island Sound,
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
205
ful of the shoal wliidi puts ofl" from the north point of Hoi; Island in a N. N. W. di-
rection nearly a mile; you are to the north of it '.viicn ( )ak Point is o|)en of a hill on
MatinicocU i'oint (S. W. by W.) and Cooper's IJIuli'. which is the highest "up the Bay,
IS open clcai of the east point of lloir Island, (S. S. 11.,) when you may steer S. E. for
the eastern side of the bay, to clear the Middle (iround, and make a harbor either in Cold
!Sr)rin':; or ( )ysier H'V, keejiin^ but a short distance iVoin the shore.
One mile east of Sand's i'oint fji^lit is the I'ulpit, a larj^e rock on the shore; when
this rock is ijetwreu .S. S. W. and S. E. from you, you should not bring Sand's Point
Li;:lit In bear west ofS. \V., on accunil of a reef of rocks off it. and in standing to the
north you sh.iuld. when the light is S. I)y K. from you, mr\ko but short tacks on account
oftlic E.xecntion FJocks, wliich lie N. IS'. W. seven ei-hlhs of a mile from the light, and
also on account of some seatleriinr rocks, one ei;;lilli of a mile from the point. After
you pass the point your course Is l>. W. for the south point of Hart Island, on which
course you jiass Success and (lane; Way liocks, oi^ both which are buoys, left on the
larboard hand ou tlie above course, alt!u)UL'li you may go on either side of them. Suc-
cess llock is bare at low water, and' is S. W. from the lighthouse on Sand's Point, about
one juile. (iang Way Kock has 0 ^et water on it, and is one sixth of a mile W. N.
AV. from Success Kock, lying (;.-! its" name iinprjrta^ in mid-channel. The south point
of Hart Island lias two siujilc trees on it, and is bold to. The course from this to
'Throw's Point Light is S. S. W. f W., on which course you will leave the buoy on
the Sli-pping Stones on your larboard luuid. and you may stand over to the westward,
guided by your lead, but as you come u)) witli the Ste))])ing Stones, which is about half
way. do not bring tlie trees on Hart I: land to bear to the north of N. N. AV., and gite
Throg's i'oint a bertli of one (<!;rlitli of a mi!e. A^ou may, after passing Throg's Point
Light, steer we^ tov^ards AVhiiestone point, wliich is the fust point on your larboard
liaiid. and Old Ferry Point, wliich i-i beyond it on your starboanj hand, between which
and Throg's Point there is good anchorage. Other bays that put in, to the west of Old
Ferry Point, are shoal until you are lieyond AVaddingtou's Point, which is opposite Ri-
ker's Island. Between Old Ferry and Waddington's Point, are Clauson's and Hunt's
Points, the former of which has a luioy olf it, and both are shoal for a short distance.
South of Clauson's Point, and nearly two thirds over to the Long Island shore is a reef
of rocks, on which there is a buoy which must )fe Ipfton tlie larboard hand..: you open
Flushing Pay when you come up with it, and ftpjn xnid-channel may continue your"
course on west from the north ])oint of Riker's Island^^ which is bold to ; : you can an-
clior to the westward of it in such water as you think proper, with the north point bp8F«<;
ing east. _■ .■'
ilART ISLAND aflfords good anchorage either in easterly or westerly Mfipi(g. ^p
anchor on the east side you may stand towards a barn which is in the bend toward
south part of the island, and anchor in throe fathoms,- the trees bearing S. S» ""^^
half a mile. Should you wish to anchor the Wes| side, between that ao4':C^l^l9fi
you may haul close around the south point of Hitrt Islstod, and anchor west of ntC treoi^'
in such water as yon think ])rop('r. • .^ i2» -.'
Hl'NTINGTON J>A\' has a fair entrance and sound ground. There is good an-
chorage in Lloyd's Harbor, in 2 fathoms water, secure from all wiijds. To enter it, steer
S. AV". I S. from the light, when it bears N. E. i N. until the north point of Lloyd^s Har-"
bor. which is a low sand point, is AV. from you, when you may steer directly jipto the
harbor, leaving Sandy Point 20 yards on your starboard hand.
In going in or coming out of Lloyd's Harbor, you should be careful of the shoal water
wliicii is to the east of tJie Sandy Point, and on the west side of Huntington Pay.*
SHOALS IN THE SOUi\i3.—AVe willhow notice more particularly the Shoals in
Long Island Sound. ■.,-
Hatchett's Reef, to tlic E. of Connecticut River; it bears E. i S. from Saybrook
Lighthouse, and S. S. AV. from Hatchett's Point, and is dangerous. Between this Reef
and the shore is Purrow's Rock, lying AV. N. AV. from it. Strangers should not ap-
proach thenorth shore ou account of these Reefs, the Bar oft" Connecticut River, and
the Shoal off Cornfield Point.
Should you want a pilot to enter Connecticut River, by making a signal off the Bar,
tliey will come on board. The bar extends IJ td' a mile from the shore.
To the S. AV. of Norton's Point, which is on the Long Island side, and S. E<frOni
Falkner's Light, the water is shoal for tlie distance of 3 miles, but from thence the shore
is bold until you come up with Roanoke Point, a distance often miles, after passing this
point you should not come nearer to the shore than one mile, until you are west of Wad-
* Throg's Point Lighthouse stands on the S. E. point ofTlirog's Neck, and contains a Bxed light.
<4«>
20G
BLU.NT S AMKRICAN COAST PIT,OT.
jnu River, on iUToiint of :i Slioiil iiU'ilio •Friar's Head, and llcrrod's Point, aftor pnssmj;
Wading Kiver, you may cnirH' within ImH' a milr of iIk; shore, till nearly np wiiii Alounl
MiHery, when yon shonhl not lirin-^ Olil l''ie!,l I'oint Li;;lit to hear W. of \V. by S. ^S.
on accoiiMt of n shoal aht-adv d"s<'nlied.
SECUNI) DiiiKCrioNS Foi: lll.ACK ItOCK 1 1 \ !{ lit )Il.— Hrin-i the li-lif on
FairweafhPr-W^<id, to hear N. j W. and run lor it, il' it shoiilil he in tiieday lime, win n
on that hearing it will^anije uiili a single hill, situated in the inltrior, several rndes. whi«h
you ntiist keep in ra 'C, imtil yon are disiant li;il(' a mile from llie lii;!illioiise, von will
then have passed th' fthllt^on the Cows, and u ill lie in t I'.iihoms watir. wlim yon may
«feer N. N. \V. until ?.i,i>ht li<.';ir.s K. hy S. Icavint: a rock S. hy \V. (Vomi ihe Vi^hl.on
which ia a Jluoy, on j. r starhoard hand, when yon may anchor; in steerit:i; the ahove
courses you will have 5 fathoms, wlieii up witli tiie >!pin(iieon the Cows, and il shoalens
gradually.
BLOCK ISLAND TO OAllDNKirS I5.\^■.— Monto.k Toint. tlic easternmost
part of Loiiff Island, which has jj^miii house on it. is l lea.iics \V. Iiv S. iVom the S. W.
point of Block island, on the Nt'iiiV. point of which are two li^htlioiises; Ijciwet-n the
island ami the point, there are 16 and ]H (alliomv "^ii»'f- As you approach the point,
you will quickly come into 9. 7, and T) fillionw tTUir. A Hal runs olf iVom tlie ahove
point, on the outer part of which an; 5 tailiooi. wahr. rocky hottoin. and S. hy W . fioin
the light, 9 miles distant, lies Krishie's Led m-. ( \iciiditii,' N. W. and S. ]•■, 4 miles, with
. from 8 to 15 fathoms on it, hard rocky 'hollniii, and deep water very near.
Between iMoiitoek Point and Block Islmid, thiie is a shoal with oidy 4', fathoms on
its shoalest part, on which the sea breaks in modi rale ^ilcs from tin- south vaid. It lies
nearly half way between the point of iVloiiiix k. and tin' S. \V. part oi' the island. \V.
by S. from the latter, and about iC. y N. froin ihc fliuliihonse on Moiitock. distant 8',
miles, you suddenly shoal your water from i;!to(i lalhonison the N. \V". side of ilnr shoal,
and before you jret a second cast of the lead yon are over the shoalcst part, into 7, rt, 10,
aud ly, an(l then into 14 fathoms. The ripiilin^ oi llie tide is very eon-ipicuons when
approaching the shoal in tine weather, ami the sea Ineaks on it so in bad weather that.
even in small vessels, it is recommp^idcd to asoiil coming near it, especially in souilierly
Of- S. W. gales. You will su((clenly shod from l:i to !) fathoms, and .Montock Light
bearing W. ',' S. 8 luiles tli!i^ut< you will have .'>' iatinnns. The soundings from the
«hoal towards Montock are(^9,;i4, IM, 11, 10. and 9 fathoms. Towards tlie liuhtliousc
when it bears from W. to vS. W.by W. the boTtoin issiron::; towards the slioal the bot-
I^PflJ i8 coiirse sand, and a very strong tide. A shoal runs otf from the north side of
' .^^iBIdck TslHDd, 2 miles.
^i'|t»m jyjpntock Point, a reef runs off in^a N. E. direction, 2 miles, having a bed of
^pn.its outer ^nd, with "Ip.antlS feet 90 tliein. on which tlie sea constantly breaks.
causes a great rippUil|fjr *They may iie ea>lly avoided by keeping a ^nod lead
,, i ruiunding iVIo]itoL*k,.c(HOe no nearer than '>-fiUhoms, or keep the two blufl's,
ilia'parts of the huiid (tqiikh^ '(v'estward of Montock) open one of the other, nu-
ll Wilfis' Point comes opetawipl^ptock.Kalse Point. These marks will carry you clear
of all the sfaoals in 37 and 9 fathoms, aiid a N. by W. course will then carry you clear
ijl^tf the Shagawanock Reef, whichlies N. W. ,^ N. .'5 , miles from Montock Iji'^iithouse,
ind has 6 feet on its shoalest part, S^fathonis (ui the N. K. and \. W. side, .'! and J fa-
? .thonia on the S. E. and S. \V. side, and 3, 4, and .'> fatlioms between the shoal and Mon-
iock False Point. The tides set strong round 3Ionlo( k Point ; the flood N. E. and elib
;i> the contrary. At the Shagawancock the (lood sets W. bv S. and e!)hs to the con-
trary. When on the fcibagawanock . in fi feet, ai
marks. " *-
m
UKiioreu a boat, and tuuk the I'ollowing
]. Willis' Point in'a line with the westernmost point ol Fort Pond Bay, or the bay
closed by the points being brought in a line 8. W. by \V. | W.
. 2. Montock False Point S. about l\ mile.
'; 3. The WhitSs Cliff, or' high sand hills on the west end of Fisher's Island, called
Mount Prospect,.}*, b/ W, ■} W.
4. The GuU Islands N. W. and the blulf sand clitr of Gardner's Island, W. Mon-
•The FriftnB Head is a remarknble Sand llill, to ilie east of the Horse and Lion, which resem-
T)le» the bedhead of a Friar, it being bore of trees on ilie to[), mid the soil while. The Horse niul
'IiidD'are tWo small spots in the bank, bare of biislies, wlii('h some years ago resembled those uni-
tnals.
t The lighthouse on Montock Point is on the cast end of Long Island, bearing W. by S. from the
S.W. point of Block Island, 4 leagues distant. From Montock Fvigbtboiif^e to the west point of
flifher^Isliand, N. W. by N. 13 miles distant. The liirliiiionsc coatains a fixed light, elevated
l^feet^bove the level of the sea, and may be seen 9 or lU leagues.
'oint, nffpr pnssing
■\y lip widi Mount
. of W. by S. J. S.
r>iiiij{ tlie litrhf oil
lir (l;iy tiirii", wlicn
vciiil iiiilfs. « liicli
Jillioiisc, yon will
IT, w|i»'ii Mni iniiy
fncii ilic lii^lit, (;ii
"^Ifrriii'j (III' iiliovc
iM, aii'l it slioiilt'o.i
till? (•:is|ornmo''t
"<. ritmi the S. W.
iscs ; l)cl wcfii till)
)|Ho;,(|i the point,
i|)' 1111111 till' nliovc
ml S. Iiy W. I'loin
i. K. 4 miles, with
ir.
ly 4', fill horns on
)nllrv;iril. It lici^
the isi.iiKl. \V.
iintoi'k, cli-<t;uit H',
. si(l(! oC lilt' shoal,
pail, iiitu 7, rt, 10,
()n-ij)iciioiis when
Iki'I wt'athcr that,
ially ill smilht'ily
I .Moiitock Liijlit
niidini^s (Voin tin*
(Is tlic lighthouse
111! sliiial tilt; hot-
he north side of
liavin;:; a hed of
oiislaiiily Incalis,
pinu; a yood lead
p the two bluli's,
l" tilt' OlllPf, llll-
II cany you clear
I canv you clear
ock Li<ilitliousc,
side, .') and 4 fa-
shoal and Mon-
)il X. K. and i','.th
i'!>l)s to the cori-
<ik tlie folhiwiniir
I?ay, or the bay
's Island, called
and, W. Mon-
ion, which rcscm.
Tiir Uiir.ue and
cinbled those uni.
W. by S. from the
the west point of
(cd light, elevated
BLUISTS AMERICAN COAST IMIOT.
207
tork False Point is 2 miles N. W. (roin the lighthouse. Willis' Poitit is the ?n8terninuat
|)uint (d l-'ort I'ond liay.
In rimiidiii;; Mimluck in the nij;lit (when the 'and or liuht can he fcen) with westerly
pales, \(iu may anchor when the liuhihoii^c licars S. W. by .S in M or ') fathoms, coarse
sand. I laviii;; broll^hl iMoiiiiu k to ihe suiithwanl of west, the weiiher thiek, you can-
not clearly asceriain the disiaix c you are Irom the point, the lead inustt be your giiide>
Steer as hii;li as W. N. W. until you have j;ot into ') f itlioms. • Steer oil' aj:aiti into 13,
and if you sinidenly shoal from 10 to (>, ^teer oft" K. by N. until you are in 11 or 12,
which snddi til\ deepens (as a bank of not more than .5 fathoms, exleinls tr<im (he N.
]•',. Keel lo the .''^hai;art aiiiic!») and a !,'oiid lead kept f^oiiiff will prev(!nl you goitijj; tuo
near ihc^e >li(ials, by .siccnii:: oil into J'J i i;(l i;i 1; ll.« nis, I cfeie yiii iilH n 1 1 lo steer to
the westuatd, alter haviii;: sounded in 0 or 7 fathoms. In the d.iy time, having rounded
iMontiK k, and hound lo llardiier's l!ay, steer iN. I)y' W.limil you clearly discover that
Fori Pond |5ay, and the red < lilf (jn the western Point, an; open of Willis' I'oint; you
may then sieer \V. hy S. lor the bliii) point of (iardncr's Isl.md, and you will pass be-
tween the Slia;j;awanock and Middle (ironiid (or ( 'ciberus JShoals.)
The iMiddle (Jruiind (or ( 'crljenisWjs a rocky shoal, haviii)^ from 'J? to 5 fathoms on
the shoalcsi part: the north and east sides tire stet-p, having ID and Mi fathoma within
half a cable s length ol the slioalest part. It csietids N. hy K. and S. by W. three quar-
ters of a mil'', 'l he south and west sides sjioalcn f;radually Irom 13, 10,'), 8, 7, to 5 fa-
thoms, saiidy bottom. It lit s N. W. .' i\.7', mil.s from Montock Lighthouse; K. S. £^;
7 iriiles fioni lite (iull Liuht ; S. W. by .S. 'J ' mdes from tli«! lijuhthoiise on Watch HilF
Point; f) miles S. hy E. '. K. Irom Mount Prospect, or the hiij;h sand hills on the west
end of Fidur'.j Island. The tide in f;eiieial makes a {^reat rippling:; over the shoalest
j)art. To a\(>id these roclxs in the day time, observe a conspicuous hill with a notch in
its ceMrc, at ihe buck (d New London. cidUd Poles Hill, 'i his kept a chip's length
open, either lo the eastward or wotward of iNlount I'rospect, (cr the sand hills of Fish-
er's Island) uill kee|) clear of the rocky slioal, in U) or 15 laihoms to the eastward, and
in H or ') fat loins to the westward. 'I he tide sets strong over the .«hoal. In ewlni or lit-
tle winds, ships shonid aiicli(ii before any of the marks or bearings iire too near.
jJeiiij; lioM (i for New ijondon, and having hroiijiht the (jull Lij;l)t W. by N. and th«
light on \\ atth Hill N. K.sicerso auto open New London Lighthouse of F^^her's isl-
and ; and wh« n the sjiire of Mew Lot don Cliurch is in one wiili the ;;ap on Pole's Hill,
steering with it if that direction will (any you between the Race Rock (on which is
spindh or Ikikoii) and th" itdddle J\aie Koi k, on which are J7 feet at half'flood, ^i
li(!s abont hall way Irom ttie Kac(> Peacou and the (itill light, or you may bring
Jjondon liuh^lioiuse a bail's breadth lo the eastward of- the church spire, bearing N.
which will carry you to the westward of the jiiiddic Race fiock, or between tjbat a
Ciull lighthouse. You may thenstier direct for Ncjft London Lighthouse. «
AI'dut .'! niles within i^ltinioi k Point, 1^ mile filij^|Le shore, lies a re^, fi
W. .', N. iVoi 1 iho point, (,n wliiidi there aie fi feot watelj|*»vhich is very dail^ffib^
S. by W. a!ioiU ') miles from Montock light,is a sAttll Wishing bank, having
and lij failn ins on it, before mentioned.
In the (.(iiii ^ between ^lontoi k i'.nd Plonk Island, it is high water at half past 10»
and chaii'je, I lit on the ;d;(.ie two hours siKUier. *'
l\loiit(i( k False I'oiiit i.s about 'J miles W. N. W. from the true point. The Sh
wanock, or Mix Kect Pu)cky .Shoal, lies N. li mile from it, and has been previously iS^'^
scribed. W illis' Point is on the east side (d' the cntrauce of Fort Pond Bay. Thi(» bsij^- J
is very c(!i.V( i jeiit for wooding and wiiiering ; the ground is clear and good, and you Hn&y !'
anclinr in any (le|:tli yju pleaK'. In a hu'jie ship you may hrinjf'\Villis' Point to bear
N. 1'^ and e\cn N. F. hy i\. and then have in tlie middle about 7 fathoms water. Near
the .shore at the hott'mi of the l;:iy llu'ie is a pond of fresh water. '
The N. K. 1 art ( f (laidiier's Island is h\ leagues W. N. W. from Montock Point.
With wcsieily winds you may anchor off this part of the island, whfch is sandy; the
marks (or anchoring are the Lighthouse of Plumb Island N. W. anA the south part iof ,
(Jardner's Ishiiid in sight, bearing .S. by W. or S. you will have 12 or 10 fathoms water.
The bottom is sand and inud. "^ •.;,
The entrance of (iardner's I5ay is formed by the north end of Gardner's Islan^^aiQtt'
the south (lid (d' Phiiub Island. H you are bound tlirough the Sound towards^vNe^-
York, your passage from (Jardner's 1? ly is between the west end of Plumb Island ftlld'
Oyster Pond, through which channel yon will have from 4 to 120 fathoms water. '9^beh
going into the bay, you may go within a cable's length of Gardner's Island, whef^ yon
will have 10 fathoms water. You should be careful not to go too nigh "Gull Rock, (W'
-A,-
* This is n single black Rock, between Plumb Island and Great Gull, and called "Old 8ila|.**
(See page 203.) (
.i»<ifcA.aa
jJiS
208
IJLl >T S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
iht'ie i« :i idcky s|ii»t one iiml a liiilT milo iVoiii it, on wliirli iIhtc arc thit'u fallioriis at
low water. Tliis -lioiil Iu-^miiIi llic tiilldwiii;; iimiKs iiml lii;iiiiii;s, viz. — ii lioiisc on
IMuiiib Ishiii)!, (.staiiiliii;: iilniiit niii'-thiiil ni' llic way lict\M.-rii tiic iiiiililli- atiil I In' \. 1;.
end) oil witli tliu ii()riliciniiiii.>t ol |!ii' t^vt tiii-s ultirli aiipcii' Ik ymiil tin- Ihhim' ; tliu
iiurth eiiil of IMiiiiilt l.-.laiiil lo liiar N.N. W. or N. Iiy W. \ \V. ami tlii' simtlifiiiiiaist
end of IMinnb Island on uiili llii> iioiilin'nnKiil iiomt nf liim'g Island. In uidrr in rivnid
thiit rock, when going into, or ((uiiiii^ out. of (iaiiiniM's Day, you must bu suit to hie|)
the south point of Phinili Islaiul o|iru of llic N- W. puiiit m \,ni\'j, L:^laiid, ultil.-t
the house on [Muinl) Inland is on with tlir n'i|-.ht>nMuo.i( of llur two tri.i's, as I'liorc
mentioned. There are several trees, liut tliey apiifar, when vicucd at a dlstiiino. lo be
only two trees. Tiiis slioal is railed by some, the IJcdford Kock, beeanse the Kii;li.sli
•hi)) Bedford grounded on it, August 16, l/rtO. K. by N. one leaijue iVom I'liimb Ulaiiil,
lies a dangerous reef, which «!Xteiid-i lo liic (inll l-ilundi, and tin- |i:i-.sau(! between is imt
fit to be attempted, us there are seviial ukUs, some of which may be s,«cu. In (iard-
ner's Bay you may anchor in wliai ilt'|)ili id' water you please, front 6 to H fathoms.
On the S. W. side of Gardner*! Island tlieie is very t,'ood riding. If you are to the
eastward of this island, with an eaiiterly wind, and wish to take shelter under llie .S. W.
Bide, you must give the N. W. end (d' the island a |;ip;c berth, as above direited, and as
youopen the west side of the island, you may liiul round the N. W. point, and anclior
where you please. The soundings ar<^ rc'^nlar.
Ships, in turning up iiito (iardner's Hay, an I standinj; to the sonthward, uill obsfTvi;
a single conspicuous tree on the ici. E. part of I'lumb Island, and tackini; belore it is
brouxht to touch the south end of the wood on IMiiml) Island, will avoid the .'^uperi)'s
Reef, which lies E. by N. | N. from the low p.iuit on (Jaidner's Island, one third of a
mile distant. It theu extends S. K. by ^. about two thirds of a mile, and is about :J()U
yards broad: Three fathoms on the middle, (> (a;liinns close to the N. W'.end. 1, I',, and
6 fathoms close to the S. IC. end, 5 and (» failioms close to tiie east ' 'de, lyinj^ parallel
with the low point of the island. 'I'o avoid llii.4 shoal, liie leaditi;^ mark into (Iardner's
Bay is to keep Plumb (Jul a sh'hjs's breadth o|irn. .Sianil to the noiiliward until Plumb
Gul is nearly closing on the N. E.l^hitf of Lou'^ Islami, nearly touching the ,S. K. point
of Plumb Island, and until New London Lighiliouse is broui^ht to the north and west
of the Gull Lighthouse, but tack bcfon- the ])oinis close, or stand into no less lii ni 7 fa-
thoms water, otherwise you may shoot over on tin- Bedford Pcef, which is a bed of rocks,
about 30 yards wide and -100 loija, lyinj* S. ^J. and i\'. W. with If) or 17 feet on its shoal-
t part. You may anchor in (Ta#vtuer's J5ay in .5 or () fathoms. New London Lii;hi-
use kept a ship's breadth open to the eastward ni' Plumb Island, will run you op into the
'die of the bay, into the deepest water, and .,iii of the tide. Ships iioinu; in t!irou;,'h
ace, or going out of N^w liondon, in order to avoid the Middle llace Kock, (wliicli
17 feet on it at half fltibd^ud lies about h;'.lf way from the Race J5eaion and the
hthouse,) havintjfrom^3ir^3i2 fathoms on the north side, and from It) to .io on
i^,'«houl(l observe tntfijirewing marks: — Going out of the roads, and to the
W<^t%af«l of the rock, which is Ijif best channel, bring the spire (d' New London Church
a sail'k breadth open to the westwjfrd of the liirhthouse ; keep this mark until a i;n>\e oi
treee, standing on a high hill on Fisher's Island, comes on with the east side ol iMonnt
Prospect, or the wliite sand hills tniiCliie S. W. nide of Fisher's Island, N. bi)^ E., or the
^Ull LiglU W. S. W. The tide flows at the (Jull llli. ;'.0m., full and change.
■^To go to the northward of this rock, and to tlie southward of Race Jlork beacon, bring
.New-London Church spire' iu one with the middle of tiie gap on Pole's Hill, at the back
of New-London (N. 8° W.) ; keep this .mark until Watch Mill Li;j;litl)ouse comes a
little open of the scTuth side of Fisher's Island, JN. 71)^ E., and when the (iull Light-
house is in one with the middle of Great Gull I. land, S. 73° AV., you are then to the
eastwai;d of the rock. Coming up the Sound through the Kacc, biing Watch Hill
Lighthouse just 6peu of the south side of Fislu-r's Island, until the south l)uin|)lin comes
open to the northward of the north part of I'isher's Island, orvmtil New-London fjiglit-
housfe bears nort% ybu are then to the westward of the llacc lvo(d<, and may steer for
the Lighthouse of New-London, and aiuhor in the roads, with IMontock fjighthonse
S. E. by S. then just open of the west point of Fisher's Island, Gull Lighthou.-e S. W.
hy S., and New-London Lighthouse N. by W., and the gap and s])ire of the church in
one; you will have l2 fathoms, stilfclay bottom.
Going to the westward through the Race, and to the southward of the Race Rock,
Steer for the Gull Lighthouse, keeping it to the northward of west until New-London
Lighthouse bears N. ^ E., than steer for it, leaving the Gull Lighthouse half a mile on
j(|ie larboard hand.
'•'i^ffihe above to be observed in case the weather should be thick, and New-London
i&^^el^<jHnre not to be seen, or when the Gull Lighthouse bears S. by W. You may
thwtlWw I^. N. EiTor the roads, making allowances for tides, which are very strong in
li>
of
Fi^
w
Bf,r\TS AMI'.UICAN COANT PILOT.
209
irco fatlioriis at
',.— ;i lioiise oil
and llif N. l].
Iif liiiusi'; tliu
siiiiilu'iiuiioiit
i uriicr to nviiid
)L' suit" to keep
Islaiiil, whilst
(V.VH, »H lii'i'oro
(lisiaiii 0, ti) b«;
St: tliu Kn^^li.sli
IMiiinhMaiiil.
lu'lWt'l'M IS Ildt
'lU. ill (iaiil-
< latlioiiis.
Jim ail! ti) the
idlT tlif S. W.
lii't'i'ti.Ml, and as
lit, and aiicliur
■rl, will ulistTvt!
ini; Iii'I'dix' it \h
I the Siipt-rh'B
(11113 tliiid u( a
id is ahmil :JOU
, end, -1, lU and
', lyiiii; paralhd
iiitii (iardiicr's
ii'd iiiitii I'luiiih
liu' S. E. [Mint
iKiilh and west
I less tliiii 7 la-
a bed of rocks,
ft 1)11 its shoal-
IjOiiduii Lii;ht-
you up into lilt-
iii<^ in tliroiiiih
■ Kock, (which
oaiou and the
111 ID to .'>() on
s, and to tlir,
otidon Chiireli
ntil a i^rove ol'
side ol Mount
M)^ K., or the
ange.
iHacoii, hrini;
ill, at the b;ick
uise comes a
e (iull Li;:;ht-
re then to the
Wateh Hill
iMi|iiin eonies
joiidon Liij^ht-
iiiay <teer lor
V Liuhthonse
ithouse S. W.
tlie cliurcli in
:; Race Rock,
New-London
half a mile on
New-London
V. You may
yety strong ia
the Kaep. Flood riiii.s lo the wrstwnnl till llti. ItOin.riill and ehangp dayxof (he moon;
hut ill New-liOiidoii roatU, only ')li. .'IDiii. It ri^^es T) or d feet sprint; tidrit. Th«
tl.iod sets throimh the roads, tiiM hall tlo .d W. N. W. last hall W. .S. \V. Kbb, firit
tpiarier, sets S. S. K. the last (iiree (jiiarleis .S. K. Cor the S. W. point ot" Fisher's iNlantl.
To uo throiij;h I'lunih (iiii to the we>.i*vai(l, uive I'iiie I'oini, which iu steep, a berth
of J", cables' leiii;lh, and sieersoas to brini; the north bhilf ol IMiiiiib Island N. by W.
,', W'. Keep it in that bearing; until yoii have i)rou.:ht (he poplar tree clear of the east
end of Air. .ItToiiie's house, or until >ou have i;o( I'liie l'oin( (o the Noudiwartl of east;
yoii uill then ol)-ierve a Mood close lolaiid of (he lii^h i)lulVof Lung Lsland, which whfin
iic;iriiiL' W. \ >S. will be in one with the rocky poii>(, whicli is the next point tti the Oyster
I'oud I'oiiit. Steering with the wood and (iiis point in one, will carry you clear of th«
l-eel, which lies otf the norlli bliilf.
Ill riiiiiiin^ (hroiuh to the eastward, keep the [mint ov8r the miildle of the wood ba-
fore-ineiitioiied, uetil (he poplar tree is (o (he wes( end t)f the house; then steer lo th«
Hoiiihward, uiviiiu I'iiie Point a berth, as before. I'iiie Point E. \ S. will lead clear of
the shoals coniiii'j; to (he eas(\\aril.
The (ide runs (> or 7 knots in the (Ji^t. The flot)d sets about N. N. W. ai^d the ebb
S. S. K. Jt Hows at 10 o'clock on the full and change days of the moon.
Murks for the y'lilianVs or MidiUe Wire rock, vhirh has orili/ 17 fret on it at half flood,
ami lies about luilf inn/ fiom Ike lioce lieacon, and l)ie Gull Lighthouse.
1. New- London lii^hlhouse in one with two conspicuous trees, which stand on the de^
clivity (da hill, at the back of New-i^oiidon, being remarkable for a gap on its summit,
N.4 W.
'J. TiiR we.«t ii'n\e of the south Duinplln just touching with the north 1)111 or poiQt n(
Fisher's Island N. JP K.
n. The east blulf point of the Great (iull Island in one with the west lower extreme of
Little (iull Island, or the (iull lii^hthouse, a small sail's breadth open to the eaetwaird of
the east part of (ireat (iull Island S. (> I ^ VV.
4. The north end of Lona; Island ius( shut in with the N.W. point of Plumb Islan4
,S. 7(}^ \V. (lull iisjlithouse S. (j3^ \V. and Mouijt Prospector High White saq4 l^il)t 0»
Fisher's Island, N. ()()^ E. ,
Marks for ih' New- Bedford rerf a hrd of rocks ahout 30 yards broad, and 400 yardf Ipn^
li/ing iS. E. and N. M". with 1 6 or \7 feet on its ahoalcst part.
1. The N. E. end of the northernmost grove of trees on Plumb Island, touohiogjftjk
south declining end of the south 'riiinost of the White sand hills on Plumb Im^,
These sand hills are the two next south of the houses Iq the bay.
vi. A larjre notch or ^ap in the wood on the main land, to the westward of Black. :
a sa.l's breadth open to the northward of a single bl:<cl( rock, which is between ti^jhl^i
end of (jreat Gull Island, and the N. E. end of Plumb Jslaod N. W. b^ IJ.
Thus appears the rock, called Old Silas.
d
■#
Murks for a bed of rocks, about 40 yards square, lying three quarters of a mile off thort^-
on the S, E. side of Ptunib Island. At low kvater the shoalest part has not more tJum
three feet on them, and about the size of a small boat's bottom. It may be seen at lorn'
water ; thrr.e falliums all round, riot more than eight feet from the rock. Other parti of
the reef, eight falhuins are around the shual,
1. Th^ largest house with two chimneys in the bay, east side of Plumb Islan^^;>j^
with a larue stune or rock on a hill beljind the house N. 33° W.
•J. The (full lighthouse touching the cast end of (ireat Gull Island, N. 66° E.
.">. The White sand hills on the south side of Fisher's Island, or Mount Prospect,
half way open to the westward of (ireat (iull Island. S. E. part of ^lumb Island, S,
74-' W. and the N. E. end of same, N. 45^ E.
Marks for a shoal in the middle of Plumb (hit, which is a compound of rocks and large
stones, with onhj Uy feet on it, having l'> antl 17 fathoms on the N. E. side., 20 on the rf.
IF', and () and 7 on the south side. IVhen on the shoal, took the following marks:
1. A small po])lar tree in one with Mr. Jerome's door, N.N.E.
' on Gardner's Idr
and, S. E. bv E
■ipici
grey
3. Oyster Pond Point W. \ N. and the .S. E. (or Pine Point of Plumb Islan^) E
N. and the rocky point or bluft' point of Plumb Island, north. The passage
Plumb Gut is to the northward of this rock.
27
tara'
310
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
j.r ■
There is anotlinr locU. with only 24 feet njion it, about 400 yards from the rocky or
blurt' point, oil Phinil) Island, on the hitter of wliich is a revolving light.
MarJxS for anchoring in Plumb Inland Roads.
Mount Prospect or the hii^h white sand hills of Fisher's Island, touching; the Ciiili light-
bpuse, N. 62" K. and {te N. E. part ol Loii'.' island in one wiih the S '•".end ol' I'iuinl)
Island^ bearing* W.or llkeast Iditll' points ol' (ianiner^s Island in one with the low hcach
which extends from the^ortli side of the island, S. 40"^ E. With these m^rKs yon will
have from 7 to 8 fathoins, soft niiid, and quite ont of the fide, and not nure than three
quartertj of a mile from the shore of Plumb Island, where there is very convenient and
good water.
From Block Island a reef of rocks lies one mile distant from the north end of th«;
island.
Sonth-Vest Ledge lies W. S. W. from Block Island, 4 iniies distant, havin<r 4 ', fatlioms
at low water, and breaks a heavy sea. As you open the passage between Moniork and
Block Island, you will deepen your wafer, and have soft bottom on ar. E. N. E. course,
and when abreast of Block-Island, yoii'will shoalen your water to satidy bottom; when
past it, you will again deepen to soft bottcftn.
[For more particular directions for passing Block Island, where are two lighthouses,
seepage 198.]
■fr
Bearings. ancT'dlstances of sundry places from the li •ihlhouse. on Montock Point.
The S. part of B|ock Island bears^. bj- N. from the lighthouse on Montock Point,
20 miles distant. "^ ♦.,
The'eastero rips Vie. E. by N...lj mile froin the lighthouse. The northern rips lie N.
E.'^JE. 3 miles from the lighthouse. ^ These rips, although they may ap|,t n to the ma-
riner dangerous, ni'^y be crossed with any draft, in ii, 7, 8, and 9 fathoms.
Shagawanock Reef, on whicjb a spear,is placed, bears N. W.*-^ N. from the lighthouse
on Montock Point, 3 miles dlsijlnt ; rhe reef ranges N. by E.and S. by W. about dne
quarter of a mile in length. 'JPhere is a good ( hannel way between the reef and I^ong
Island, about IV mile wide, in 5, 'l,'ai)d S^H.homs water.
Frisb'.e'g ledge is only a p\ace of han^rocky bottom before yon approach the li jlithouse
Ip ttie we8lward;,from 8'to 1ft (flPhcMns, anrfuo ways dangerous to any vessel. You may
Ireep the shore on bopl'd fru ' to^ighland8^(say three (jaarlers of a mile) and haul round
i»i»ntock. '/ - . W '
SChe^ast-end of Fisher's Isjand iSeirs N. J W. from the lighthouse on Mctfltock Point,
h Hill Poinf lighthouse (which contains a re[)eating light) bears nearly N. from
',distantl4 rnilesj there is a reef extending from Fisher's Isl-
'atchHiH, Point, leaving a passage between the E. end of the reef and Watch
'daillJ' 'int,halfamile. <*'
"^ The Kice Rock, where there is an iron spear placed, bearing .S. W. iiy W. three qnar-
, t'ers pf :(|jlnile rropj the W. Po!i|^ of Fisher's Island, bears irom Montock lighthouse,
•V N.. W. bJ N. 13 Voiles '/listanu ' •
■;■ The Qnll Islands biar S. W; by W..froni the Race Rock, 4 miles distant. The light-
house stagid'ing mi the west chop o'i New-Eonddn Harbor, bears N. by W. I W. '> miles
^rom the spear on the Race Rock. ' On the Liritle (Jiill Island there i« a lighthouse con-
Iftining a fixed light, bearing ^. W. by W. from the west point ol' Fisher's Island, four
niiles distant. ■» % ,
, Bartlett's Beef, on "wnich h buoy and light vessel, with one mast and a bell, are placed,
beaȴ N. W. by W. i W. 4 miles distant from' the llace Rock.
, liittle Goshen^ Reef, wl.ere a buoy is placed, i)ears N. E. J E. about 2 miles distant
T'rora the bi^oy otl B<irtlet:'s Reef.
The lighthouse at New-London Harbor, bears frym the buoy on Little Goshen Reef,
N. N. E. i E. about 1^ mile distant, and contain^ a fixed light.
The S. 'W. ledge, where a buoy is placed, bears N. by W. from the Race Rock, 4J
miles distant.
The cast chop rff Nftw-London Harbor bears N. by E. | E. from the .S. W. ledge, l
inile distant.
The llghrfiouse pears from the buoy on S. W. ledge N. W. by N. l mile distant.
inns
GARDNER'S KLAND TO .^^HELTER l.^EAND.— If you fall in with (iard-
iJer'fl JslljtnJfyoU must sail on the X. side of it till yon coiiu' up with a low sandy point at
t^e'W/.end, which puts otl" two miles fiom the Highland. Von may bring ihc island to
biar east, and anchor in 7 or 8 fathoms water, as soun us within the low sandy point.
oi
y<i
vo
ill
'W I
so
m the rockv or •
orth cn'l of thai;
two lighthouses,
; reef hiiiI Lonji
McJfltock Point,
».fT>'
BLUiXT S AMKUICA.N COAST PILOT.
(lARPNKTJ'S ISLAM) T< » "N'KW-I.nNnOX,— Vm/rnmsf! from th*' easi
of (iiirdiKM's lsl:»rui to .\(;\v Ldtidon is N. ,', K. iilioiii I l»':ij;Jp». In steering this c(
east end
course
von will leave riiilnl> Ul.iiid jmkI (iu!l Islands on ymir larliOiird, ar.d l-'i^l.cr's Isliind on
voiir starboard hand. In this ])a.ss, vou will .ijo llir )ii;;h the llo,>e Kai^e, where vou will
iiavea .-troii<; riile. 'I'he llonil sets \V. N. \V. and the elib E. .S. E. This place breakf
when there is any wiiid, espeeiaily wlien it blows ai^ainsl the tide. Your soundings Will
sometitnes he .') fathoms-, at othei's lo and 'JO. *
• !n passiiiii' llTe west end ol' Kishers Ifiiahd, vou imist pive it n berth of one mile, at
there are several roeks to the westward of it; tlnn yonr course to the lijjhthouse is N.
bv W. ilisiant two leagues; but in fioi^ig in here you must not make Ions; hitcl.es: you
will leHve a sunken k•ll^e on your lai'board, and one o'l your siarboanl hand. AVhen
wiiliin one mile of .the |i;;lithouse, you may stand on t » the (jaslward, till the light beart
.iV'. N. W. and then run up about N. N. p. till ubrcasi of the light,.wherfe you quiy safe-
ly anchor, or run N. for th;-. town. '
KK W-LUNT)pN.-^If you are' bound irito New-Lwndon, after petting to the norih-
ward of the 8. W. part of Fislu'r's<T-:land, keep New London licht bearing from N. N.
W. to N. N. K. if you are beating; to windward, hut if the wind is fair, brine the light' to
bear N. when at the distance of •..• lea;;ties, and run directly for it; leave it on your lar-
board hand in runuins hi; when in. you.may have j^ood anchoring in 4 or 5 fathonjs wa-
ter, clayey bottom. . In coming; out crt' New-Lc 4on, and bound West, when you have
lelt the harl)or, brin';; t)ie light to bear N. iV. K. and steer <iifectly S. SyW. till you come
into 1.5 tathoms water, in order to clear a reef that lies on your starboard hand, when the
norih part of Fisher's Island will bear K. distant 2 leagues. If a .iihif) could have a fair
departure froii|;i the middle of'the Race, find was conuielled to run in.a dark night,;OX>
thick Weather, the best course would be \V. to Stratford Poitit, and would afford ^he
larizest run' yf anv one course. • *
.\K\V-J.O.NI)<)N OR- WESTWARD— Keep" Gull Islandlight to-bear \V. NtW.
until you judge yourself^withiii about tvvomiles of th'elight ; your course then to New»-
London liaht (after you pass liace Rock, which" lie.'* W.£. W. from the point of Fish-
er's Island, dijjtance i of a mile) is N. ■' W. - jjft^jiHtiing ,4tj, or going out of New-Lon-
don, (when opposite the Gull h'clit) bring the |?iiH lljljht tobgar S. S. W. and New-Lon-.
don light .\. N. E. leave the light on your brl^Kir^ifepd in giving into the harbor; keep
well to the W. if it be winter season, and wind df- N. Ji,^!jiijfii sternly.— your course td^
break oH' a N. E; gale, in good anchorage, is W. ><. /ijjj^jgm the Gi-iH, distance S^nilei,'*!.^
then haul up, if the wind be N. E. and steer N. W. nMPy.Oli Jfel'.inffrlO fathoms of^wA-j^,
ter, muddy bottom; anchor as soon as possiBle-^-yoi^F^l be between ^Hntchett's
and Black Poii^t ; this is the best place you can ride fnt*if you have a N. E. gale,,i||jjid
vliick weather, anil cannot^l into New-London, f Sayu|pok lighC will thep beais
bvN.orW. N. W. c • ' p^^^..
Saybrook is not, a- good Jiatbor to enter, but if you must attempt it, ^ring thp|{jpi^k
house to bear N. N. W.,and ste«r./or^ it uotQ^within one mile, then deet N.^^EI^ill tn».^*
li;iht l>ears N. W. by VV. and then run for it until wiihiO'. half a mile distaoce, from
whieh a N. N. W. course will carry a vessel J)kp the river to good anchorage ^.near' the ,1
town. A .J *
When bo\md up Sound, and off Saybrook Light in clear weaf^er/Wive it a4)ert)vt>f
three or fiuir mites ; your sounri course then is W. S. XV. ^ W., ."^OtwihP^ (ji'^tsitlt, which
will carry you up with Eaton's Neck Lit;lil. leaving. Stratford Shoal on the starbbiardh
hand. This shoal, whieh has a white spar Imoy on the south, and black sparJ)uoy otl,
the north, between which you cannot go. Iiears north from Satauket (Long Ijilandfand
Si ,3'' W. from Stratford Point Liuht. The !)\u)y<iare placed in*19 feet water. In leav-
ing I'aikner's Island Light north twi) miles, steer W. (upnfyou get into 5 or 7. fathom*-
water,) distance JO miles to Stratford Point Light, hard bottom, which leaves Stratford •
Shoal, that bears S. by W. from the light, on the larboard hand ; then your couracif . »
W. S. W. to Mantinieoek Point. " ' ^
FROM PH'MB Gl'T TO GREKXPORT— Vessels bound to Greennort may
make their course S. W. and ruir;i miles, which-will carrv you up to Ben's Point, on,,
Long Deaeli. Tins beae'ii is .'i^ inlies long, and cover* d with low cedar-trees, which you
::m
• \e\v. London iiu;l)tli' use stunds at tlie cniriuiec of the !inrl)or.on the weatern side.'OjTho Inn.
tern is tievaied SO (,'v\ nbove the level of the sea, contains a fixed light, and hears N.'by E, from
Little Ciiilllirrht. nbniit (i^ miles. V ■ - '
t i^nybroDk Point liL'iii is a fixed liirht, nt the inoufl) of the Connecticut riv^, on tho wc«t chop of
the entninee to thai river ; it sianils mi n low sn'idv point, prnjrctinffinio the sen, hnvinjj on its weaV
side a eoiisidenitili' irnei of salt mnrsli, eonin niit£r n pond nl brnckish wmcr,* which by its evapor-
ation, en ntes a mist, at times, which very much impedes the light, the weather at the laoM tinu
clear off shore. Height of the lighthouse from the sea 44 feet. , «
-w*-
213
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
leave on your starboard hand going up to Greenport. You will have, from Phimb Out
to Ben's Point, from 4 to 4^ fatliouis water, and then ycur course is W. S. W. 3.'; miles.
In running this course you will slioal your water to 3 fathoms, and if you get any less
water, haul to the southward, and as soon as you get 3 fathoms, keep your course, and
tun until you, by heaving your lead, from one heave will have from 3 to 7 fathoms water.
As soon as you get 7 or H fathoms water, your course is W. N. W. one mile, which will
CBTry ydu to Hay Beach Point, on Shelter Island, which you leave on your larboard
lisnu.; haul close round Hay Beach Point, and your course is W. S. \V, 1^ mile to
Glf^^port; then you may come to anchor in a good harbor.
GARDNKR'S POINT TO GREENPORT the distance is 12 miles, and
rae is W. by S. Running this Course you will shoHl your water from 6 fath-
luelly, to 3 fathoms, on Long Beach side ; and then you follow tjie above di-
)i.to Greenport. Five fathoms of watt, can be carried into Grjeenport, but large
leW^Bbuld take a pilot — one is tilways to be had.
"j^TER POND POINT AND PLUMB ISLAND.— In sailing through this
iflqd Plumb Gut,)y6u leave the light on your larboard hand, running boldly
O* which it stands, then steferjng S. E. by E. till the Gull Light bears N. E-
iih^you may shape your course Car Point Judith, or wherever you may wish.
tien passing the light, you will open Gardner's Bay, which is the passage to .Sag
jBTairbor, and also leave Oy.«ittr Pond Point on your starboard hand, bfl'the eastern part
tfwhich a shoal extends one third over toward the south end of Plumb Island.
' !l%« bearings of the lighthouse have been taken from ihefollmcivg places:— From Oyster
Pond, Ploint and the tfeef, N. E. by E., distant from the outer part of the reef IJ mile ;
'0nn Saybrdok Light S. E. ^ S., distant 8| miles ; from Pine Point (the S. W. part of
"^mb Island) N. W. by N., distanl thfee quarters' of a mile; from Cherry Harbor
.^siit (the. S. W.part of Gardnei^s.Islanft) N. 30° "W., distant 6 miles ; from Gardner's
Mttt N. W. \ W., distant 3^ miles ; from New London Light S; W. ^ S., distant 10
lilies; from O^d&r l6land (at the entrance of Sag Harbor) N. N. £. j £., distant 8
lrb(|ttnd into Ntew Haven, give -Falknei'^s- Island a berth of one mile, and steer W. by
""^ "New Haven Light is north' of you, in 6^ fathoms water, when you may steer N.
|vilig the light a berth of If mile, to'^tivoid the S. W. Ledge, on which there is a
btioyi beatring from the lighthottse S. W. by S. i S., distant 1 mile, which you
0*1 y«>Ur starboard, hand, artd 'wheii the light bears N. E. you may steer up N. E.
for tJhe Fort, to the nort^ofthe.Pallisades, leaving the white buoy on Adams'
pt yqur 8tuH)oard hand.* "Whehyovi "are nearly abreast of the Fort, give it a berth
i»lM!lil of ^ miJe, Sindv 8tee:^,jii|p IS* ? W. for the end of the Long Wharf, leaving
llP^fe,' which is one foui'th'of tt tnUe N. W. of the Fort, on your starboard hand.
an Adams.* Falls- beaf»frti^,th« light S. W. half a mile, and from the S.
j[. ,Vy ?., h^Jf a inilev * j; , *
|||^ittKi6 on Quick'8 Rock, whtet^' bears from the light S.jf E.. distant three
j^fpttiiie. The blioy on Adams' 'Fall bears from the spindle N. W., distant
BJ 'The buoy ton S. W. Ledge bears from the spindle W. S. W., distant half
Mi^>
.bound in. from the eastward, may pass between the buoy on South West
M<thespitulLe, as there are three fathoms water in this channel, keeping about
^tf een them, and leiiving the white buoy on Adams' Fall 20 rods to the east-
foTfkem, arid then steer for the end of the wharf. On this shore, in channel-way,
''IH>if^ ii^l^ve 3, 4, and & fathoms water, muddy bottom. Bringing the light to bear &.
'l^trptt'm^ anchor in Morris' Cove, near the east shore, in two fathoms water, nnuldy
' lom. Your course from this up the harbor with a fair wind, is north. Gite the Fort
|,ln nxnniligfor the pi«yr, a small bertli.
"^esijeiNl bound iia from the^wfestwatd will leave both buoys on the starboard hand, and
^^;|^sy m^'K^pass with|{rffity within 20 rods of either of thenr. If beating in, your sound-
(Ing* wiil'e from 9ylo S.and 4 fathoms. Stand in no farther than 2 fathoms upon the west
' i|m>re, oft which yotl will haVeh&rd bottom. In beating up, after getting in muddy bot-
tom, (which .is channel soundings,) it is best to keep the lead a going often, on account
-l^jf bojniering 6o tha west shore, where you will have hard bottom, and soon aground.
|'|r Hkl'en Lighthouse is situated on Five Mile Point, at the entrance of the harbor, and lies
Ki^arbcvd hand. The lantern is elevated 35 feet above the pen, and contniiM j> fi.\cd litdit.
^l!^W.fiaven Light the following bearings nnd distances are taken, vfz : — StratfiStd Point Liplit
r^rf^i miles ; Middle Ground S. 42'5 VV., 14 miles; buoy on Adams' Fall S. 50° W.;
\. Ledge 8. 30° W. ; beacon on Quick's Ledge S. 1° E. ; F&lkner's ItiftfiA. Light S.
i 13 milps, and
■r from 6 Ciitli-
/ tjie above di-
iport, but large
; through this
running' boldly
;ht bears N. K-
ou may uish.
passage to Sag
he eastern part
stand.
— Froiti Oyster
e reef IJ mile ;
; S. W. part of
Cherry Harbor
from Gardner's
i S., distant 10
- E., distant 8
nd steer W. by
III may steer N.
lich there is a
ile, which you
iteer up N.' E.
loy ou Adams'
give it a berth
IVharf, leaving
Itarboard hancL
d from the S.
.distant three
W., distant
., distant half
Soxith West
keeping about
Ids to the east-
channcl-wav,
;ht to bear &.
Iwater, muddy
1 Cite the Fort
,%*•
I in
I
m
Buoy on the
N.E. fromi
/the buoy on
Ifce harbor of
_t course can
that depends
t ; therefore,
ir in, which is ^
itward, if you '
jear N. by W.
•vhen, if occa-
el, having from •
liich stands on
I. The mouth
jfeast brings you
Is, and the reef
0(4^. On the
a league, and-
ith point of Mid. i^^i
int, on.^vbi^i?^'^
beartefiwu-ASllir
is (Mf «f>ened 4^*
,r4ie light w^Uh;«
attention to lh«|
J, iiiit you uii^#
ip)Wittrage-ta:tB|^|
lite jlown to f*^
ireontheeMi
o eoiUinues.
je leeward
[age otii^^jh?!
the ligbtlif ^
ose aboardRr^^
[e starboard.,
idgport riJd
light is "
bove tl
\{ies, a^d „_
18 f3tht>3h»8f|
out four ,
n* V an3<3
add grafii
■ jxte'nds ^l
;i"aoyittjJ
.nus bar, *
tt coastersi;'
(^
■.,1 -'L'.VvJa
'■1m
i\ m^ a ligl^thea
Aim i\ IS I. v\vV I)
^S I) l\V I).
Hediit-t'd rrtiiii tlit- l.iii;t(«- CImiI iis SniTcvt'il ItvK.llluiK
Jin4frinTi/ for/ tlimfs. till I'll t(Hi<\Hisll'iliit.
rivU'ii.M.u.i
Is,'"
m
i^'-iif
•*ii
hiintHi*iii'
\.I!,:I«H,
Vrte >frA-. fiMtiJvil hjf KKI! WlUunt tXIJ.
:A
, riilihithril /«/ km: ll/lliiiit /<«'»/
212
leave orii
to Ben's
Id runiii
water, h
tun unti
As soon ^
•wry yo^
I
■/—^^♦i«^„
r*f which
l.J'ondPoH
ffom Savb)
Fturob M
», Poitit (the
*" , Foim N. ::
< 4)ilea; froi
If bqunc
•]
Jbtio
r
I
H
■»■
lir.
..M^
|hrHy bet^
Xou' may
, Jk, in rui
^e«wl8 bi
^V|h«y mtejf>pi
'"'(ingi^iU
iuiore, Ob w
T^Ri« (whici
pt borderin
I
n.
fh-'
- .^a^H
p^
I.
n¥
1
*-.'■
t
\
; "J
;■■
*
^ '^f i
V
;jr
^M:^ '
— wi '■»"■*
-Cir
BLUNTS AMKRIC.VN COAST PILOT.
TlUTDniM^RT. — Vessels bound into niidgporf must Iravp tlir nuff-r •buoy on the
lail)()iiril liiind, :nid stt'cr diri'ct I'di' tlif Ijciicon on Wells' I'oint, wIik Ii Ix-ius N. K. front
the oiUt-r l)»Mcon tli;it is on tlic west tial, idxint ;i.j(» \;imIs distitnt. Iciivini; the buoy on
Stoiiv U;ir. on tlic stiiiboard liand, and Alk'n's i-'liits on ihf l;iibi»;ird.
FAIinVKA'I'UKR ISLAM), Ol'F HLACK R( )(K 11 A K IJOR.— The harbor of
Hiack Roik, altlioiiuli safe and oasy nf aci ess, is so sitiiatcd. that no dircet course cat*
be given Id steer for the lii^lit, that will carry you (hiect into tlie harliur. as that depends
wliolly on liie distance you arc lioni the ll^iht, at the time you make for it ; therefore,
judsjment is to be used in varyinj; tlie beariiiii of the h;:ht as you draw near in, which is
easily done by observiiiij; the followinii rules: — In cotninjj from tlie westward, if you
mean to harbor, to avoid the reef called tht! ("ows, you brim; the lipht to bear N. by W.
and mil directly for it, until within three (|iiariers or half a mile distant, when, if occa-
sion rc(|uircs, you may stretch into the westward in a fine beatinp channel, Living from
5 to .5 fathoms water, and fjood ground. As you approach the litjht, which stands on
the east side aC the harbor, the water gradually slioals to about two fathoms. The mouth
of the harlior, althoiiiih not very wide, is not difficult; the lisilit bearing east brings you ,
completely into the harbor. 'J'he island on wliicli the lijjhthonse stands, and the reef
called the Cows on the south and west side, form the harbor of Hlack Roc{i. On the
easternmost rock of this reef stands a spindle, distant from the light half a l0<igue, and'
from which liie lijjht bears north. The liglit stands 44 rods from the south point ofsaid^j*^
island at low water. From this point puts olV a single rock, 30 rods distant, on whi<si|- |(k|^li
6 feet at liii;h water, making in all about 74 rods distance. The light bears ^'fjOin-tilWUl'.'
rock N. Iiy F,. A E. As soon as yon pass this point or rock, the harboris fahrlf'ttywQed
to the northward, in any point from N. to W. N. W. You can run forilie light with ,
safety, observing, as yon draw nearly in, the aboVe directions, and due attention to tbsi.-f^l
lead. The bottom for some distance from this rock southerly, is hard, Jbut you m^f-i'^^
continue your course, and it will soon deei)en. it is safe and good atiohorage to tl
eastward of the light, for all witids from W. S. W. to N. N. E. quite down to
month of Bridgport Harbor, whidi is distant about twomiles. The shore on theeasteri
side of the light is bold to, in 3 fathoms, close aboard the light, and so conlinues Wftt
yon are quite down to the south point of the island. This bay, to the leeward ol!t|
light, between that and Bridgjiort, is one of the best bays for anchorage oo th? ;
shore in Long Island Sound, and affords from 4 to 3 fathoms water, the light >
west. In coming from the eastward, crossing Stratford Point Light close aboard»'j
course to Black Rock "Light is W. by N., and you keep sounding on the starboard
not less than 4 fathoms, nor more than 8 fathoms, to the north of Bridgport H«
which is distant about two miles. The shore on the eastern side of the light is
in 3 fathoms close aboard the light, and so continues until you are quite doWE(,
south point of the island. " • .
tL;)\'iJ ISLAND.— Lon'T Island, from Mq.ntock Point to Red H(t«kf 4>|tt
by S. about 102 miles, and is at the broadest part about 25 m.iles aCroW* T|
generally jiretty low and level, excepting a few hills, which lie about Iftrt^
westward of Monfock Point, and Hempstead Hill, which is 31!) feet above
the sea. Along the south side of the island a flat extends abouC a mile frOflpi,
in some places it runs out a mile and a half. The east end of the flat isgnn^i?!
die and west parts are sand and stones. Your course, Montock Point Light
north 7 miles distant, alons; Lon;: Island shore, is W. S. W. S!2 leagues, ai|d^^
leagues. About 4 leairnes distant from the island there are from 15 to 18 fatlDDJl^s'
and iVom that distance to 20 leagues, the water deepens to 80 fathoms; iq tHifil-l
depth you will have oozy ground, and sand with blue specks on* it. . About four lie»L„
off the east end of the island, you will have coarse sand and small stonds ; andakt^jH
same distance from the i.iiddle and west end, there is a small whitesand and graf«
black specks. From the S. W end, off Coney Island Point, a shoal extends
miles towards Sandy Hook, which forms the Fast Hank.
There are a tew^ilets on the south side of the island. The first one of any iitit
is Fire Island, on which bar there is 7 feet at low water. It is a datfgerous bar,
to be attempted by the aid of a pilot, who can be found on board of the coaste
■ • : ^ ^ ' 'i •|i.,fi«yc^
* In the harbor of Biidsport arc three buoys, placed as follows, viz : — One on Marchand
which lies a mile S. ^ \V. from diu outer beacon ; one on Stony Bar, bearing S. E. from the i
1 50 yards distant ; one on Allen's F'liita, being inside the harbor. ;. • ;'SSL'»..f^
t Lon£» Island Sound is a kind of inland sea, coiiiniencing at Sands' Point, whcrcris 8 li^thm
and extending to (Jull Island Litrlit. It is from 3 to 17 miles broad, dividing it frt)ni Coma
and affords a safe and convenient inland naviirntion, having good anchoring placet, AJtd Mit|
lighthouses to guide the mariner throughout its whole length.
v
— — < ■!»
y 214
nH.NTS AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
froiu th«? plnrt*. Tlir rniii«iiiii)n iiilits act' slinlhtw, with tin- rxopptinn of Rorkawny, to
wliii'li bar th'> rnniuks on l-'irc Uliiid .ihovr, \\\\l ii|>|ilv.
\V\' liavf picvidnslv iiiciiiidiifd ii'spcctiim Kin' l>laii<ls |jis;lilli(in.sp, Imt tliiiik it ad-
visable to ipprat, it lirars N. 77^ .'to' K. (Voiii SaiKJy Hook Lij;lit, 1"J lea^'ii's distant, and
exhibits H I'cvolvini; lii^lit, tVoni mIiIcIi aslm^l fMctidH soiitli one mile, wliicli is vt'iy dan-
gerous, Ir.ivini; (t\ laiiioiiiN vciv iic;>r ii, ilicn stiddctdy aslioii-, and on wliicli tlie (iood
tide .-n'ls very rapid. From tins lo Sandy Hook ihn soundingH are various, viz. yellow,
red, brown. I)la( k and urcv >aii<l.
HKJH LAM).< OK NKVKKSINK.— Ncv.-rsink Hills, on wliicli twoligliihonsesare
built, extends N. \V. and S. K. about S. W. Iroin Sandy Hook on the Atlantic Ocean, to
Raritoii Bay, an<i is (Veijuenily the (irsi land discovered by mariners when they arrive on
the coa.st. The correct aliitmles ol" the loilowiny plaees, wliich present themselves to
niahuers xs they approacli liiem, arc— -
Mount .Mitchell, the hiuhest point of Xeversink, Monmouth County, (N, J.) 282 feet.
Tompkins' Hill, t»n Statcn Island, ,3t)7 do.
Hempstead Hill, (Jueen'.s County, Long Island .319 do.
NEW-YORK. — If yott fall in to tlie soullnvard, and make Cape May, on which is a
lighthouse eyhil)iting a revoivins; trianmdar liuht, it would lie prudent to keep alioiit .3
ieagues ofi", to avoid Ht^rreford Bar, whicli lies from 4 to f) leat'iies from the Cape to the
<^lthward, and 8 miles from the iidet (d that name. 'Jhis inlet is lVe(|Uented by the T)e-
!*»are pilots, having no other harbor to the northward until they reach K.gg Harbor.
passing Herreford Bar, you may steer N. K. when in ID fathoms water, taking
Cftic !.iKt the flood tide, wliich sets very strong into the iidet, does not draw you too
close; this course continued will carry you up with Kgg Harbor, you will then have fme
whittf and black sand intermixed with small lirnieii shells; by contimiing the same course,
you will deepen Vour water, and so continue till you draw near liarne^at Inlet. [In run-
ning along the sliore do not steer to the norlhw;ird of N. K. if in 10 fathoms water or less,
as yoii will he apt to get on Absecom Shoals, o Kgg Harbor Har.] On the south side
of Bamegat inlet a lighthouse containing a fixed li^ht is erected, off which you will
get bright coarsft yellow gravel. The shod o!f IJune^iat does not extend beyond
Iwo rrtlles from the beach, and is steep to ; you may turn this shoal in six fathoms
water, within pistol shot of the outer breaker. It would always be prudent to keep
in lliiie or ten fathoms water during the nisiht, and not steer to the north of north-
teAstt^ unless certAin being to the north of the shoal. The soundings are so much to
be Wpended on, that the moment you lose the above soundings you are past the shoal,
whtn you will have fine black and white sand, and very hard bottom ; you may then haul
id for the bnd N. by E. which course w ill bring you along shore in from 13 to 17 fathoms
water, but if the wind and weather permit, I would recommend hauling in N. N. VV'.,
whiCjLwUl bring you in with the southeriinuist part of the Woodlands, which is very re-
ItwliB, having no other such land in the distance from Cape May up to the *High-
i^ds,1lliAd caii be distinguished by its being very near the beach, and extending to Long
iiitth.
■"In passing ffom Bamegat to Sandy Hook, when to the southward of the lichts on the
iigblands, you miist not ouen the northern light (which is a fixed light) to the westward
(-^tmtt southern light, (which shows a revolving light,) as that will bring you too near the
p^^ Jersey •hure.
Egg
seen
due ?
nienii
the
feet w
N., w
into d
then,
bv \V
die
In
mark
the
Ol
spot,
K.
part
tent
S'
temp
Thus appears the south part of the WOODLANDS.
I By passing R.arnegat in the day-time it may easily be known : should you be so far off
p; ap not to see the breakers, you may perhaps see a grove of wood back in the country np-
i'']^ently 3 or 4 miles long, "known to the coasters by the name of Little Swamp, and lies
£ directly in the rearof tli<' inlet of Bamegat, so that by sailing to the northward, your
B^' WVing the north end of this land directly abreast, you are certainly to the iiortliward of
^.t Bamegat: there is also another grove directly in the rear of Egg Harbor, known by the
F name of the Great Swamp, which has the saiiie releiTiices as respects Ege Harbor— but
"■ that the one may not be taken for the other, it must be ob.served, the Great Swamp of
<...i.i— »■■■ I.— . ■ — . ' ~
•The liirhthou.ics on the HiL'b'ands l)cnr N. 2.lo \V. and S. 23^ E. from each other, distant 100
yards. The Sjuth Ti'uht hns l.i Inmtps, revolves oiioe in 24 minutes, e'evated 241 feet above the
level of the sen. The Norh T/"ht has Ifi lampf' fixed, facini.' as t()l!o\\s viz. Six Lights N. W.
Seven L'ghls N. E. Three Lights South, and is 2 16 feet 7 inches above the sea. The hghts are
39 fcot 9 inches from the base to the top.
it^>Am^im
BM'.NT.S AMKIUCAN COAST ril-ClT.
215
Elljt Hnrhnr will appenr murli hi'^lirr, ;m'l in U'tisjtii H or 10 iriiirs; neitlur ran they be
set'ii al tiie sam:' limi', iw iJaiiU'^at ami I'.iJ. ilaihiir arc I'l miles apart. I5anify;at hears
due S. by W. 41 miles from Sanily llooU. in liaulin^' in tor the Woodland bi-lore
mentioned, you may, it' the wind is oil the shore, keep within a cable's lenijth of it all
the way, until up with the lliuhlands; and siiould yonr vessel not draw more than 10
feel w itr^r, y(tn may eontiiine on untd >ou <;et S.mdy ilooU li^hi to bear W . or U'. by
N., wiien yon may steer N. by K., to avoid the point (d' the K.ilsc Hook, niitd yon ;;ot
into divp water, say 7 tithoms, then steer W. N. W'., luilil the litiht bears S. by E. ;
then, with a (lood tide, steer N , and with an ebb steer N. N. W. — the true course In N.
by \V. — which will carr you over the Kast Hank, and up to the black buoy of the Mid-
dle. [For directions t > <io to the citv, see pa<;e 'Jit).]
In Koiri'^ over the Kast I'lank, be careful yon do not set set I • the tide on Uouier; the
mark to keep clear of Komcr is, to keep Sandy Hook liiiht i.i)en with the east end of
the Hiichlands.
Oneandatiuarterniile K., a little northerly, from Sandy Hook liiilit, there is <i small shoal
spot, with only li fe<'t water on it at low water: it is the remains of the Old False Hook.
K. .S. K.. -i! miles from Sandy Hook li^ht, is the Oil Spot, bavins; only 10 feet in one
part at low water; it is of a triaiiirular shajje, and about half a mile on each side in ex-
tent : the alonu-shore channel is inside of it.
SWASH CHANN K L. — We omit directions for this channel, as it should not be at-
tempted without a Pilot.
.JX/f.n^.-y^-'^^'^^,
T
Ii;(Jl> ,ANDS, N. 03° W.
NoTK. — S. i E. from Sand Hoo" iA^hx, 5 miles distant, is a ledgp about 1 mile from.
the shore, witl'i not less than -i'. fathoms on it.
♦SANDV HOOK CllAN.\KL-WAV.—[n running into New York, if intending to
go shi|) channel-way, tiive the .! Msey shore a berth of;! miles, until the light on Sandy ^
Hook bears West, which will biiii;; you midway between the buoys, of the bar; then steer'
in for the point of the H- k, keeping tlie lii;litliouse well open-on the larboard bopif
(tpking care, if it is Hood, to be set too far to the northward, and if ebb, to the south-
ward.) when abreast of the Hook, so that the lighthouse and east beacon range, keepwUbin
half a mile of the shore, to avoid Flynn's Kn.)ll, which has on it only seven feet w|ter,
and lies N. by W. 1 \ mile from the li^^lit, and seven ei-rhths of a mile from the poiJBit of
the Hook. After you have parsed the beacon, you may haul into the bay, S. W., if
you mean to anchor, siviui; tlie Hook a berth of a mile, until you bring the ligI|thouse
"to bear K. by N. or K. N. K., where yon may anchor in from h to 7 fathoms water, soft
muddy bottom. But, should you wish to proceed to New Yol-k, wheq you haT««Qrae
in as before directed, and got abreast of the beacon, or the point of Sandy Hook, ttiiltfs,
up west by north until you bring the lighthouse to bear south-east, and Brown's Hof-ft;
low to bear south half east, leaving five black fspar buoys and the Black Can BuoV -^-
of the south-west Spit on your starboard hand, when you may steer up N. by E.
! E., leaving the White Can Buoy of the Knoll on your larboard hand, for the bluff of
Staten Island, which will at that time bear exactly north trom you. As you pass the
Can Buoy of the Knoll, Prince's Bay Light will beat; West, standing on the west side
of the bay.
[That you may not be deceived with respect to Brown's Hollow, it is the hollow which
makes the termination of the lliahlands to the westward.] Havipg turned the S. W.
Spit, continue steeling N. by F. { E. until you shoal your water, which you soon will do if
it is young flood, as it sets from •l\ to 3 knots to the westward ; here you will observe, at
the time you turn the spit before mentioned, on the Jersey shore, above the Narrows, two '
hummocks of land, each forming, as it were, a saddle, thus : v ^^"^ ^^^ j The
'
* The liirhthouse on Sandy Hook cnntnins n fixed light. It is Kghted with 18 patent lamps, to
each of wliicli is fixed an ciirliiecM-incli iiietftllic rrtlector. Tiic strength of light in this lantern is
greater tliuii any other on tlie coast, uaJ if properly attended, may be seen at the distance of 10
len>.nies.
Two lieiicons are erected on the Hook, liie easternmost one on the north point ranging with the
lij,dit and buoy of the n|)i)er Middle ; and the wesiermiiost one and light ranging with the buoy on
the 8. W. Spit, in boll- .il' which are iniiips.
tThe spar buoys are not always jiut down, but the can buoys are, except in the winter season,
when they are substituted by spar buoys, which arc put in the same spot.
21G
bm'xt'm AMi:in('A\ coast pfi.ot.
eajttpriimost of iho two is tlic mark for loiiiiiiy; up ilir cliaiinpl no as to avoid the T'pper
iMiddlc, on vi'liicli is a Mark ciiti Ihiov, on tin- ntarlioanl hand, l)y kci>|iiii<; i( jnsi o|ictt
with the hliill' on Statcn Kland, wliicli vviii In- thi-<-:is*- it' you turn the s|MI as liflorc di-
rrctt'd ; tliis will hrin'i you u|) ciianni-l-wav, whi'ii you havi- sailtii .'> or d miles flic coiirso
(Icsi-rilit'd, and with this m irk ojii-n ; thcii you haul more to tht> castwanl, untd you o|)fii
til*' other hummock, wliieli is called the Westernmost lluiiiniock : by keeping holh
easterly and ucstcrlv iMiniiiioeks open to your view, you avoid the Middle and West
Jianks, on the latter <d wiiicli h a Idaik (in l)iioy, and on tiie I'ormer a while can Itiioy,
and come up chamii'l w.iv through the N.urovs. ih-tweeii the can liiioy ol' the West
iinrik and Ihu lilull' (d' Slalen Isl.mil, are lour white spar liiioys, which you leave on your
larboard iiand. When thus tar, you must, to pass h'ort J)iamond, keep Statcn Island
shore aboard. 'I'he mark to pass Kort Diiimond i to kei-p I'.edlow's Island open with
tliP point of FiOiiii Island; lor if you can see iiedlow's Inland in coiiiiii;^ tliroM:jh the
Narrows, there is no danger I'rom the Narrows to come up to .Ni-w ^ ork ; you will steer
up for Ht^dlow'.s Island to avoid the Mud Flat, on wliicli four black buoys are placed,
which you leave on your starboard hand. 'IMiis tl it is a kind (d* oyster bed, or bank <.>f
liMul and siiidls, and has not more than 11 feet on it at low water; but to avoid this tia'
do not stand too (ar to the westward, on account of liobbin's Reef, lielwi en whi( h and
Bedlow's Island are three white spar buoys, which, to avoid runniiii; on the west side of
the chatiuel, the mark is to keep the |)oint of land up the North Kiver (on which Fort
Lee stands) open with the east side of Iiedlow's Island, after whicii there is nothinj; ma-
terial to obstruct the navi;^atioii to Ncnv \'ork, it being very steep near the point of<!o-
vernor's Island, and the rocks near tiie Battery do not extend 100 yards Ikmu the shore.
There are three reefs of rocks in the Fast Kiver, viz. one oil' the north side <d' (lovern-
or's Idland, with 15 feet water on it; one otf the Battery, having; i) leet over it, and onn
offCorlaer's Hook, which is very dans;erous : they may nenerally be distinguished at all
times by the rip of tide going over tiiem, both (lood and "'ib.
Other Directions. — Or you may, after makiiiu; the Highlands of Neversink, run in
boldly within three miles of tlie beach, and in steering along to the northward, (diserve
to keep in about 8 fathoms water, until you get the lightiioiise to bear W. !, N. then, if
you have a round hill, called Mount JMeasant, some distance in .Jersey, in one view with
the land about one quarter of a mile to the southward of the lighthouse, you are in a
•ituation to pass the bar ; steer in W. by N. until you are over it : you will have on it at
low water, Sfathoms; when over, you will be in 4\ fathoms. I'ass the Hook anci light-
house about half a mile, at which distance you will have ,'i and G fathoms. When you
hav^ the point of the Hook on which the beacon stands bearing S. S. K. you may tlien
hattl to the southward, and round the Hook and come to, from one to two miles distant,
the Hook bearing from E. toN. K. in good holding ground, ."> fathoms water. When you
make Long Island, it is necessary to keep sonu'what in the olting, on account oi the
East Bank, and observe the same marks running in as before mentioned.
Jf sailing up in the night, when abreast of the S. W. Spit, the two lights on the High-
.fandswiji range, when you may steer N. by K. j F. until you make the buoy of the Fp-
per Middle, when the east Beacon and iSandy Hook liiirht will rangi, in one. After
passing the Upper Middle, you will deepen your water to 0 fathoms, when you may steer
N. up through the Narrows, and you will deepen your water to 7, M, 10, IvJ, and 16 fathoms.
High water at full and change of mogn on the Bar and Sandy Hook, 7^ A. M.
Average rise and fall of tide on the Bar, ."i^ feet.
Set of tide on the Bar, and be-
« iween the Hook and Romer,
Do.
do.
do.
second
do.
do.
Do.
do.
do.
third
do.
(!o.
Do.
do.
do.
last
do.
do.
Do.
do.
do.
first
do.
ebb.
Do.
do.
do.
second
do.
do.
Do.
do.
do.
third
do.
do.
Do.
do.
do.
last
do.
do.
first quarter flood, from 2 A. M. to ^ A. M. S. W.
from .Ji A. M. to .5 A. M. W.
from .'■/ A. M. to (>.', A. M. N. \V.
from b'j A. M. to h" A. M. N.
from ri" A. M. to ').', A. .M. N. E;
from ')', A. M. to 11 A. M. E.
from 11 A. M. to IJ',1'. M- S. E.
from V2},V. M. to L> "P. M. S.
In the spring of the year when freshets nui, the half flood runs to the .S. \V. and \V.
S.W.
r ifj. B. The above answers for the Upper Middle and buoy of West Bank, with the
exception of one half hour later.
Bearings frotn the Tclegrajth at NcrersinJ,- Hills.
Sandy Hook Lighthouse N. 7° W. with the west side of Fort Lafayette in range.
Telegraph on Slaten Island N. 10° W. Level of the hill at the Telegraph where the
i«Ofcit
dMUAU.
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST IMI.CVr.
217
liillithouses are erected, 'JO.j I't'et, iiiakiii;; tlif i»i) hmtcrtis -J/iO (Vet iihovr tin- Itnel of the
tlip T'pppr
t jllHl l)|ICtl
lu'liiri' »li-
llic cdiirMO
il you open
rpiiiH both
anil West
can liiioy,
th«' West
iVH oil your
itni l>lanil
opi'ii >Vltl|
iroiiL'h thi!
II Hill stfcr
iire placiil,
or idiiik of
ii<l this t\i\*
which and
vest side of
vhich Fort
olhim; ina-
loiiit ollio-
I liic shore,
of (ioverii-
it, and utifl
ished at all
ink, run in
lid, oh.scrvo
N. then, if
e view with
III are in a
ive on it at
111(1 light-
NVhdi you
may then
es (listaiif,
When you
tint ul the
t'io Elich-
ofthe I'p-
iie. After
I may steer
'i fathoms.
M.
S. W
w
N.
W.
N.
N.
K.
E.
S.
E.
S.
and \V.
with
the
Jif art ngt from J'rinrr's liinj lAyJithuuac.
I'oiiit of thn Neversink Hills, S.:.4° E.
Sandy Hook lii^htlioiine, S. 7P E. ilistant in miles.
Spar Itiiov on the north side of the Koiiiiil or .Middle Shoal, at the entrance of I'rince's
Ha>. S. H()''E.
At Prime's jlay, where the liyhthoiise is erected, the level uf the hill is 77 feet above
(ide-water. 'Die elevation is 'M feet from its liase.
Direr.liuns for suUiiig in by SanUi/ lluo/c, airrfspmnlinsr uith the Cliurt, i>ublislu(l by Ed-
MU.NU and (iKoHUK \V. Klu.nt.
In eomitij: up with tin; I'ar, when midway hetween the buoys, steer W. by N. till the
iiiilit (111 .Sandy llo(d< ranj;es with the easternmost ol five tiees on the Highlands; you
may then steer W. till you j;et the west Ueacon iin the point and the hi;lithoiise in
raime, ami so keep them till you make the lihK k biu.y ol ihet^. W. Spit : alter hauling
round the Spit, .steer N. by E. | E. until you make tin; buoy of the I'pper Middle, but
be careful of the Hood tide, which sets directly over to the West Hank; after you have
passed the buoy ol' the West Hank (wliii h is the upper buoy) you should not bring
Stateii Island hu'ht north (d' N. by W. as the ed;,'e of this bank is very uhoal, anil extends
to the point n( the island.
H'yoii wish to run for I'rince's Bay, brinij the 'litrht to bear W. N. W. and run for it,
anchoring' as near the shore as you please ; E. S. H. \ S. from the light will take you on
the N. point (if the shoal, on whii h a iiiioy is placed; this buoy is left on the larboard
liaiid in iroiii!: in, but as it is liable to be carried away by the ice, tiie light should never
be bruumht lo bear north of W. N. W.
The following are the bearings, courses and dtshtnces, if the buoys placed in the Harbor
of New York:
CAN nrOVS.— The black buoy on the bar, bearinj; E. by N. from the lighthouse,
distant li', miles — ranj;es with the fmhthouse and .Mount I'leasant, in New Jersey.
The wliite buoy on the bar, bearing E.', S. from the li-hthouse, Ijf mile distant, and S*
from the black buoy, IJ mile distant; between these buoys is the channel. This buoy
ranues with the West Meacon and IJlock House.
'I'he black buoy on S. W. Spit -J,' miles from the lighthouse, bearing N. W. by W'
raiiijes with the West Beacon and li;ilithoiise. *■
The while buoy on the Knoll, bearing' N. W. 1 N. from the lijjhthousc, distant 4 iBilM
and one tenth.
The black buoy of the Middle, distant 5 miles from the lighthouse, bearing N. 15°
W. ranges with the East Beacon and lighthouse. ' ' >
The white buoy of the West Bank N. I 'j ' W. from the lighthouse, 6J miles distant^
ranges with Snake Hill, in New Jersc^y, and the blulf of Staten island, where the light-
lioiise is erected, as before mentioned, and where the Telegraph now stands.
SPAR BUOYS,
Between the Ocean and the City of Neiv- York, in conformity to Act of Congress.
Five black spar buoys between the outer bar and tlie black can buoy of the Spit-
Four black spar buoys between the can buoy of the Spit, and tlie can buoy of tbo
Middle.
Three black spar buoys between the can buoy of the Middle and Coney Island.
Four black spar buoys on the shoal opposite (Jowanus Bay.
On the west side of Uie Main Channel.
One black spar buoy on the north side of the Round or Middle shoal, opposite Prince's
Bay.
Four white spar buoys between the white can buoy of the bar, and the point of San-
dy Hook.
_ J5«L
* Prince's Bay Liirhthoiise stnnd.'^ on a blniroii the west side of the bay, bearing N...71^ W.
from Sandy Honk Litrht, disiaiit 10 miles, mid W. fmni die Knoll Huny. It shows a fixed light,
fuciii!.' E. S. F.. haviiijf elev(;n lainps, elevuted lOti t'eet H inches uba\e the level of the sea, and 29
fc«t n inches fruni its base.
28
in range,
vhere the
218
ni.uNTs ami:ki(A?« coast imlot.
■'h
Six white spnr Ijiiovm hoiwcrn the r:m t)iiny of tlic Ktidll. itriil tlin ran huoy <if the
W.;»t IJii.iU.
l''()lir wliilf N|iiir liiioys In Iwrni lli< <;iii ImkiV .>!' liir \Vr>( I'tiiriK iiid Sl;i|iii l^l;l||(l.
Three while spar Luu^h in iwiin tin- |)(iiiit ul K(il)l.iii''^ Hiel uml Ik-iliuw'!! Isiaiid.
Jn thr Knsl Rivrr a»d Lnnir [shini/ Snuud.
Onp wliitc »»(mr buoy nii tin- Miilillu (iriiiinii, oppiisitt* itushuick(.'ri<ek, wht-ru the Dry
Dock is iiicaicil.
One liinck spar hiuiy <iii tlic (iovnriiiir'M ThI)I<', niackwell's Islaiiil.
Out! Ijlack upar buuy on Lnwrciicu'M Kccf, gutitti I'vmn W vsivUcntet Creek, near Loii^
Island.
[NoTK. — In sailing Ship ( 'haniie I, the Wliiti' IUiovn arn to hi- Itl't on th<! larboard, and
the Hiack lUtoys on the Mtarbuard liaiid. None of the liiiuyH are tii le8« than 1') luet
water.]
NOTIOK. — Harbor Master's Onirc, for the port of New N'ork, i» kept at the Nauti-
cal More of KD.MUNI) 6c UKOlUiK \V. ULIN'!', 154 Water-street, corner of iMai-
den-Lane. '
COAST EASTWAiU) AM) WH-STWAfir) OK SANDY HOOK.— Il yo.i come
io near Cape Hatteras, be very eareliil of its shoals, and make your wny to the N. N. K.
which will carry you on the soundings of the .h-rsey sliore. \\ hen you pel Jd failimufx
water in lat. 40-' bi. tlieii liaul in to make tlie land, hy which ynu will avdid the dillicul-
ties of the coast, and the shoals nearer in shore : but if yon eannot, ste thr lollowini: :
When you are up with Chineoleayue Shoals,* in H> tat horns water, it is near enough
to approach them; from this station, if bound into the Delaware, steer N.N.K. '^ H., which
tfl the course parallel to the land, until Cape ilenlopen li^hl hears \V . Von may then
run in for it; or, if bound to New- York, keep on that course umil you have passed tho
pitch of Long Beach, taking eare, as remarked liel'ore. not to run into loss than III fa-
thoms water, if night. Vou then can steer for the Ho<ik. If, in running,' up, you deepen
your water siuldeidy, from 14, IH to '25 ami .'}(), or .').') faihonis, oo/iy bottom, you are in
what is cnlled the Mud licdc, the centre of which is l.'i miles from the Tavern, at Long
Branch, and S. K. l.'i miles from Sandy Hook lighthouse.
NEW-YORK liAY.— New-York IJay is') miles h.n;;, and 4 broad, and spreads to
the southward before the city. It is formed by the cotillucnce of Kast and lliidson's
rivers, and embosoms several small islaniis, of which (Jovernor's Island (on which arc
Cattle Willianas and Fort Columbus) is the principal. It comnuuiieates with the ocean
through the Narrows, between .Staten and Lon^; Islands, which is a mile and one (piar-
ter wide. The passage up to New York from Sandy Hook (the point that extends I'ar-
thesl into the sea) is safe, and not above H miles in leii;:tli.
tSANDY HOOK, tCAPE MAY, AND CAPK §HKNL()ri<:N LKHIT HOIT-
SE8.— When sailing from Sandy Hook lighthouse, as soon as to the eastward of the bar.
Steer S. if night, till you pass llarnegat; if day-time, when passing, you may go nigh
the breaker, say 5j fathoms. In sailing b;'tween the Hinhlandsand Harnegat in the day-
time, you may go within one quarttir of a mile of the land, it the wind is off shore.
When you have passed Barnegat, steer S. W. by S. 10 or 11 leagues, which will carry
you up with fJreat Egg IIarl)or, which has a shoal bank one league from the shore, that
has not more than 6 feet water on it.
This land may be known by its ap[)earin'i like broken islands, with the Highlands of
Neversink to the westward of Sandy Hook, which Ins a singidar appearance Irom any
land on that coast. In the day time you may go within two leas;ues of the shore, but in
the night it will be prudent to keep further oH". When you have passed (ireat Egg Har-
bor, Steer S. W. by \V. 10 leagues, whicli will bring you up wilh(!ape May li^ht.
Between Barnegat and ("ape May there are three inlets, one of which is fit at high
water, for vessels drawing 1.5 feet, vi/,. [jittle Egg Harbor, olV which buoys arc placed.
Great Egg Harbor may be run for in time of danger, and will give 1,3 feet at high iter.
The navigation is not so safe as other places.
In running for C'ape May, while steering your S. W. by W. course, you will pass five
inlets, before you come up with Cape May li^ht, vi/.. ''oston's, Townsciid's, Herrefn"!,
Turtle Gut, and Cold Spring, all which have bars lying off their entrances ; when abreast
.1
•A lighthouse, confniniinr a fixed liKhf, is erccicd on the S. K. point of Assntcnguc Island, to
point out the proximity of (^"hinnotcngue Slioals.
t Sandy Hook lifiht, see note, page 215.
t Cope May light, sec note, page 220.
§ Cape Henlopeii forms the S. VV. by S. point of Dciaw- re Coy, 124 miles from Cape May, and
for description of lighthouse, see note to ]iage 220.
ran buoy (if the
StiiK'tl Isliilicl.
•k, wln-ro tlie Dry
'reek, near Loii^
the liirhoitrd, and
ICilil tll.lll 1<) lt;(rt
I'pt at the Nnuti-
t, ciitritr III" Mai-
iK. — 1( jmi crime
\y 10 tin'; i\. N. K.
jii fivi .'(I l'a(liiiiii<(
iiviiiil (III' (liirKitl-
' tlif lollowiiii; :
it IS iieiu tiioii<;U
.N.K.i'K.,wliich
Von may tlieii
II liav«- passed tlio
o less than Id I'a-
m lip, Tou (h-epeii
iiltiiiri, you are in
; Tavern, at Lonj^
d, and spreads to
ast and Hudson's
ind (on whieii arc
tes witli the ocean
ile and one (piar-
[ that extends far-
Lir.FlT IIOU-
ustward of the har,
you may tjo ni^li
riieyat in tlie ihiy-
ivind is oil' shore.
, which will carry
)m the sliore, that
the IlijjhIandR of
learanee ("rom any
f the shore, but in
d (Jreat Ksg Har-
e May lijiht.
iiich is fit at hi,<:h
buoys are placed.
eet at high vator.
you will pass five
scud's, Ilerrr'fcfd.
i:cs; when abreast,
ssntcnguc Island, to
om Cape May, and
591
^tw..
tflT'
liilfcMIMi "I"""'
^,^*)*-if- '
..^^f'^'
r'mm^
\' '
BIJJXT S AMERICAN COAHT PILOT.
219
o" Hcncfoni iiilt'1, yoii niity, i(" hiMiiid lo Ciipc Miiy, sfpcr W. Iiy S. Imt if hound to Capo
ll('iil(»i)riJ, steijr S- S. \V. till llie lij^lillioiist" hears W. wlun jou may run for il till with
III two mi'es.
K. h 'S- iVoiti Cape May lis;lif, IT) or 1 -^ iiiijes dislaiit. lies Five Fathom Bank, with not
niorf than IvJ l'<'t*t water on il. Tin' south point hears F. ', S. tVoiii (.'ape .Mav, and (Voui
<;a])e I Ifiijopfii it hears F. hy N. ;ii) to ;JJ inil<:s distant, anil raiii^es N.N. F. anil S. S.
W. It is dan!;er.(Us tor hirj:c vcssi'Ik.
LiTTLF F(i(i IJAHHUR. — Diirini; the winterseason.it frenuenlly occurs tliat
vessels are prevented enleriii^ the |)f laware or ."^aiidy I look, hy violent north-west winds,
and often driven ojf tlie coast into the (julf: to remedy, so far as possihl:;, (iiis inconve-
nii'iice, ihc Author inserts tiie directions, which will enahle tiieiri to inaltc a sate harbor,
v\7..
Hunninc throuL'h the Sod Cliannel, keep within .'!() or '10 yards of Small Point, and
you will have Ji fathoms; pass the point, then tiradiially haul round, yivim; tlie breakers
a small berth; or steer in for the beach, when you are opposite Tucker's house, until
you are in 4 lathoms, then steer \V. S. W. whi<:h cour.se will carry you through the same
«'|)nnnel.
The following described Huoys are placed at tlie entrance of Little Ft;;i; Harbor:
One Spar Uuoy in the middle of the Sod (Channel, a little outside the bar or breakers.
One Spar Muoy in 'he same channel at the point ol Sods, upon the nmth side of the
iiiiiin channel. The Hiioy at the point of Sods upon the north side of thu main chan-
liel, hearing; S. W. from the l;uoy on the liar, lioih lyin}^ in J,' fathums.
One Spar Huoy upon the point of Hugh's l»ar, on the west side of the main (or east)
channel, bearin;^ from the buoy on tin- point of .Sods, VV. N. VV.
One Buoy at the middle of the Fast (or main) ehaunel, a little outside the Bar (or
breakers) in ,'; fathoms water.
One .""^par Buoy at the point of the Itimnd Shoal in :}}, fathoms water, upon the north
side of the East channel, bearins from the outward buoy in the East ehaunel, W.
S. W.
AIJSFCr^r IXLFT.— Absecim lies r,}, miles S. \V. from Little Fg}; Harbor. Off
Al»se(;um, Irom Fast to F. hy S. .i miles. Ties a Shoal, havitii; on it several lumps, on
which there are only 10 feet water: the around is broken, having between the lumps, 4
and J fathoms. On this .">hoal the s'up •'ili/.cn was lost in Irtjt*.
To inter the If'irh'ir. — IJriiu; the housi; which is on the stari)oard hand point, to bear
\. W. and steer directly lor it, uniil withi.i one fourth of a mile from the house, when
you must steer north till you i^et to the .Nfarsh, whi>re you may anchor in from .'3 to fifa-
thouis ; depth of water on the bar at low water') (eet, common rise ol" tide 5 feet.
If you should pass Nantucket Shoals in :iH N. lat. or :(H" .(()' or :vr 00' or ;J9° ;J0', you
will, if possible, observe when you leave the (Jiilf .Stream, from which, about 10 leagues,
you may beirin to expect soUiidiiiL's, and a .S. W. current, as soon as you get soundings ;
then the observation by lead and line, is to aid (he navigator.
If you are beatinir to winilward, olf the Hook, wailing for a |>ilot, or for a wind (night
or day) in standina to the northward, when yon siippoic the lij^hthouse of the Hook
bears W. by S. it is iie ar eiuni;^h. When you approach Lon^ Island, the soundings are
tine white sand and small pirbhies; hut on the Jersey shore the soundings are coarser
and darker. There is wlial is called a Hook Chanael in this channel; the soundings
are mud and sanil.
\V. S. \V. and F. N. F. moon makes full sea at the Ho.)k. Variation 4" W.
*CAPF MAV LtCHT. — Vessels approachin-^ the Delaware by ("ape May, will get
the liifht to hear \V. N. W. in I or ") falhoins, then run for it, and maki; a safe cntranco
into the Delaware, clear of .dl shoals, with vessels drawin;; I'Jor l."> feet water.
Ituiinin'j; for the lisiht keep alioiit two miles to the northward and eastward of it, till
.'tbout tiiree (|uarters of a mile from the shore, where is a windmill and several houses,
occupied by fpilots princij) dly. From liiis you must keep the shore close on board.
• r,r\pe May li^htlioii'^e is oa tlic cxireine soutlnvest jioiiii of tlie Cn\>r, at the entrance of Dela-
ware n.iy : its eleviitioii iVum the sen, is abiiiit MM feel; .•ontiiins a revDivJiiLr !ii.'lil, of (ifteeii lamps,
aiiil iiKikes a revdliiiimi in Mine riiiiiutes ; its intirviijs of diirktivss and litjht Pire va led in propor.
tiiMi to llie disilance that iimscIs are trmii it. In |iafl*iiii,' the li!,dif, it mav he seen, with n elenr bori.
•/on, from l.") m -i'l miles. It \w.\r% N. F. hv N. from Ciipe Ileiilo|Mii litriit, distaiit about 12^ niijes.
Hranilywine litrlitliiiii<ie hears N. \V. hy \V. 4 ^V. dislaiit about '.i\ miles.
Tiiere is (rood nncjioratie and hiirlmr under ("ape May lifxiit, with the wind nt N. or N. N. E.
nnd after passitiir the liudii and keepin!: tlie land on huard in .3 to ,5 fntbonis water, vessels will find
safe anchorage, aud a y.iod liarhor, with the wind at the eastward.
t As soon nsin si;,du of the liijlit, and in want of u [id^t, you had better hoist sonio signal, as those
who do not, uic considered not in want of one.
220
HI.IINT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
:
when ynu will In- in .'> fiitlKims WiitiT, till yon (Idiihlc romid tlic Capo, when you will lonve
ttie (ir(!at Slioal on VDiir larlxriinl liaiid, over wliicli it cDiitiiiiiallv Itrcaks, when (-(ivt'ird,
I f bi-arini; S. I''.. Iiy \). iVoiii tin- liu'lit. lii-iiaiil 1', mile, liarc at low water. ACtfryoii liavc
di)ui)lc(l the ("ape. steer N. till llie lii;lit hears S. H. ', S. when yon must steer N. \V. till
you deepen into 7 and H liuhnnis. In rniniini; the afioveeonrse, yon will have I'roni 5 to
\i!i fathoms, helorc you come info H tatlioms, which is three leajjiies distant frcmi the
li^ht. Alter yon have }.'ot into H latlioms, yon will immediately come into .'{ lathoms,
when y(in must steer N. \V. hy VV. ."> leagues, which will carry yon into the ni.iiii chan-
nel, hetween the IJrandywine fii'jiitlioiise* on your larlxiard, and Cross Ledjre on your
starboard hand, hearing N. N. W. and .S. S. K.Cnnn cacli other, distant :! lea^nes. The
lighthouse oil (he Hraiidywine is 1 .\ mile upon the shoal, ahove the S. E. point of it.
The outer extreme oC the IJrown and Hraiidywine Shoals is ahout :} miles.
Cros:^ Ledf^e has a Ueacon Hoat with one mast, moored on it in summer; and in win-
ter a Buoy.
On the first of the llood, the tide sets to the westward, and on lis;ht winds should he
guarded against, by sleerins: I'roiii one to two |)oints more to the eastward, and on the ebb
the contrary ; this course will keep you from the shears about 1.', mile.
In runninj; the iibove course, you will have ;{, .'!,',, and •i,' fathoms, till yon come near
the main cliannel, when you will deepen into fy fathoms, which is a swash that runs up to
the eastward of the Cross fjcd^e ; still keep your N. W. by W. course till you have
crossed this swa.sh, when you will shoal your soundiniis into 1!.', fathoms, and then deepen
into 7 fathoms, which is tin; main Ship Cliannel, when you must steer N. W. till you
have only 5 fathoms, which is on the Fourteen Keet Hank, (wliicli lias a buoy on the
S. 8. E. end) and then alter your course to N. X. \V. for Cross lied;re. One leamie
distant from this ledge lies a Shoal, called loe Floi;^cr, bearing \V. S. W. from the
buoy.
CAPE IHENLOPEN JLTOHTS.— Hring Cape llenlnpen Lijilit to bear W. and
run for it till within two miles; when abreast of it. you will have l.'j or iG fathoms water.
After you have passed it, steer W. S. W. till you briiii^ it to bear E. S. E. where you
may anchor in 3 or 4 fatliQjns,
E. \ S. from Cape Heiilo|)en, 'J.') miles, is a Shoal, witli 4 fathoms (m it, i;ray satid.
Entering Lewistown Roads, you will observe the depth of water, at low tide, on the
piers deposited at the Hreakwater, is reduced to I'i feet, and that in order to mark the
situation of these piers, and tc render secure the approach of all vessfds to the roads olf
Lewistown, twelve Spar 15uoys have been aiicliored roiiiid tiie piers; and Two Sii;nal
Lifhts, fixel on the shore abreast of the piers, will be kept burning all night during the
winter season.
On approaching Lewistown Roads, wlien you liave tlir .Signal Lights on the shore
abreast oftlie piers in raiije, avoid bringing the Heacon Light on the pitch of Cape Heii-
lopen to bear S. E. by \ E. for at this bearing, and the Two Signal Lights in one, you
will be in danger of the sunken ])iers.
There are now two hundred yards of the Breakwater five feet above higli water, and a
continuance of four hundred yards at the south part a wash at common high tide, making
a range of protection in length, six hiindnul yards. At the lee Breaker, aliout sixty
yards are above higli water, and two hundred and (il'ty yards at the east part, a wasli at ( <tm-
mon high tide, making a protection of three hundred and ten yards, '{"here is no diffi-
^ culty vvith common attention, in riinning into the anchorage to the southward of the
• The liffhthoufie on the nriuidywine Slimil is entirely (lestroyed — The LJLdit I'lml is anchor'd on
the Wcstsidu of the shoiil, bciiriiig troin ('ii|i(' Heiiluptri X.hy W.disiani 11:2 miles, niid from Capr
May W. N. W. it shows two iiirhts on .sepiirate masts: it ia only anchored tli( re IVom the lOili
of March to the lOih ot' Seplemhei-.
t Ciiiip Henlopt'ii lies in Int. 'M-^ 47' N. am' in ionc 7r)'^0.V W. There is a litrhiliciase here, n ""ew
miles below the town of Lewis, of an octnijiin toriii, haiidsoiiirly luiill ot stone, 11 j feel l.ii,di, and
its foiiiulation nearly as much above the level of the sea, coniaiiiiiuj ii fixed liulit. The lantern is
between 7 and 8 feet square, liijhied with 8 lamps, and may he seen in the iiiclit, 10 leogiiesnt sea.
Ea.stof this lighthouse, is fhe Hen niul Chickens tilmal, nfier described. The nenrest part of the
Overfalls, which bason it t'lDin 2 to .'i lallKHiis. Iiears N. E. by N. from the liiiul, disiniil 4i miles ;
the outer poiiil N. K. by K. i E. distaiu ."> milns. When the main liirbiliouse bears alioui S. 4 W.
distant ,1J miles, theu the liifliihoiise on the Ijiamlyu iiie Shoiil hears N. ^ W. disiniit II J miles.
This course will take you three <piarleis of a mile Id the i"^. E. of the bdoy of the Hnp'\ii.
t NoTH K Til Maiu.vkp.s. — A Ik'niDii LiKlithoupe has In en erected, nnd is m.w lighied with n bril-
liant fixed liKhl, thot can be seen six leagues. It stands on the extreme north end of (,'ape He nio.
pen, very near the beach. It boars N. 5'- W. three fourths of b mile from the Old Liiihthouse.
Ships ruiiniiijr in for Old Kiln Roads, may, when the Di aeon Light nnd the lifihthouse are in one,
approach tiie Deacmi Light within a cable's length; then siecr W. X. W. until the Old Ligliilioust
bears S. E. and anchor in 4 fathoms good holding ground.
iU,.„
■ I I irf- r I 1^
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
, when you willlrnvc
ri'iiks, wlu'ii covt-rnl,
(IT. Alter vou liave
must steer N. W- till
u will Inive Ironi 5 to
;iu's distant iVimi tlie
I'onie into ;i latlioms,
I into the niiiin chan-
, 'ross Leiifze on your
taiit :5 lea;:nes. Tlie
he S. E. |)oint ol" it.
:} miles,
summer; and in win-
lis:ht winds should he
itward, and on the el)b
mile.
us, till you rome near
swash that runs up to
. course till you have
iionis, and then (li'e|ien
t steer N. W. till you
ieh has a huoy on the
Lcdjre. One league
r \V. S. W. Ironi the
T/is;ht to bear W. and
') or 1^^ lathnms water,
u- E. S. E. where you
ins on it, gray sand.
er, at low tide, on the
I in (u-der to mark tin-
vessels to the roads olV
iers; and Two Signal
iig all night during the
Lights on the shore
ic iiitth of ('ape llen-
al ijights in one, you
)Ove high water, and a
nion high tide, making
Breaker, about sixty
ast part, a wash at ( oni-
rds. There is no ditli-
tlic southward ol' the
itrbt riinii is ancliiifd on
1',' miles, and fn)m Cape
(110(1 there IVoni the Idtli
IS n lighilioiisr hero, n ""ew
stone. ll"> t<ei l.ii-'h, and
xcd iidii. The huiicrii is
ic nmhl, 10 Icnt-'iicsal sea.
Tlic Mean St \nirl of the
10 hind, disianl 14 Hiilos ;
xino h<'ars nhont S. J W.
4 W. distant Hi miles,
y of the Hrii'Vii.
is ni.w lifzhiod with n bril-
lortb end of I'npo Honlo.
from the < >ld Liiihthouso.
the htihthiiiiRo are iii uno.
. until iliu Old Liglahousc
■Breakwater, even in n gale of wind, either liotween tlie tsvo works, oV by the passage to
tlio S. K. of both. 'J'liere is to ho a signal light kept on the >.. W. end of the Breakwa-
ter, (it IS now on the Brig.)
Ill approaching iVom sea and going in hy the south ))assage, give tlie Beacon l^ight on
the pitch of the ( 'ape a berth of tnon four to live hiiiMlred yards, and when you bring the
west end of the Breakwater to bear .N. W. steer for it. and amlior in a line between it
and the (iovernment House on the beach, as close on the works as you can with salety,
the light on the west end In aring aboiu N. or N. by W.
FIVE FATHOM B.\NK. — Vessels hound into the Delaware, coining from the
iioitliward, or having fallen to the northward of Cape Henlopen, should be careful not
t,, ipproach nearer than 12 fathoms water, until they have got into the latitude (d' said
Cape, to avoid the Shoal called the Five Fallioin Bank, on which a light vo-- 1, having;
two masts, with a lantern on each, is moored in7J fatlmms water, Cape May light-
house bearing \V. •JO'-' 'M' N. distant l')\ miles; the centre of the shoal. 'st ground on
which is found \-2 feet water, bears N. 'JH'" E. from the light ship, distant 'J^ miles. It
extends N. by E. l E. and S. by \V. i W. three f(<nrtlis (d' a mile, and is half :t mile in
breadth, and very bold on its eastern edge, as there are TJ fathoms half a mile to the cast-
ward ol the shoal water.
Vessels coming from the northward shouM not run for the light ship, while bearing
from it between N. 14^ E. and N. 41^ E. S. E. three fourths of a mile from the light
ship, there are o fathmns water.
There is a jiassage inside td'this Slioal, by taking your soundings from the land in 6 or
7 (atlioms, but strangers in large vessels should not atteiii]it it.
In running np the Bay, keo|) the old lighthouse to hear S. }, E. until you pass the Bea-
con JJoat with one mast, on the l?ro\vn, distant 9 miles, then steer N. by W. for the
light boat near the Brandywiiie Shoal, until you come within half a mile, then steer
,\. \. W. f(M' the upper jiart .d' the Bramlvuine, on v\lii(li tliire is a Beacon Boat with
.1 . \ M' 1... V i'.... .i... 1 r .1... 1.' !.'„,.» ii..^i. „_
.^. .1. »>.liri III1 IIIMMi will, <'i III, i/i(iiMi>>*iiit,irii ,>iiiiii 1(1111 i:-tclJJ^rlv<Jll^'ir(1l ttilik
two masts; then steer N . W. by N. tor llie lower part of the h'ourtecu Feet Bank, on
which there is a sm ill Buoy. When in .j latlioms water, steer more northerly, until
you deepen your water into b and ()\ latlioms; then steer a ])oint more westerly, until
you shoal again to .5 fathoms on said bank. By keeping olY and on tliis bank yott will be
certain you are on the western side ol' the ciiannel, until you come up abreast of the
Cross Lt^lgc, which is on the eastern side ottlie ( haimel. and has on it a Beacon Boat,
with one mast, in snnmrer; and in winter, a Buoy. The cliaimcl here is very narrow,
not more than 1| mile wide, ^'ou will then be nearly up to tlie upper end of the Four-
teen Feet Bank, where there is placed, t'rom March to December, a Floating Jiiight
\'essel, with one light, which yon leave on your larhoard hand. From thence to Upper
Middle, (near which is also a light vessil.) is four miles, on which there is a JJuoy ; it
lias ."5 or ;}'. fathoms at low water on it. \'oii may go to the west>vai(l of the Middle in 4
or 4\ fathoms, sid't botKun ; to the eastward there are G or 7 fathoms, hard bottom. This
the main ship chanmd. Thee ours;' from the Middle to *Botiibay Hook BarisN. W.
■ II i:.- passage, and which >on leave on the starboard hand. 'J'his Fort is built on the
IVa Patch, and while passing it keo|)yonr larboard hand best on board till you bring the
river to be;ir N. E. or N. E. liy N.. when you may stand up for New (,'astle. This place
is 40 miles from I'hiladelphia. Wlien you have passed it about a mile, you give the
larboard hand a berth, as there is a tlat shoal near half a mile off. If you have a fair
wind you may keep in the middle of the river. This river winds from New Castle to
Marcus Hook, from N. J'-, to E. N. E., distant 'JO miles. Your course from this to
Chester Ldand is N. E. by E. 4 miles, leaving said islaiul on your starboard hand, and Ti-
* The lolliiwittL' iii'litlioiisrs nri- crootod in Dolnwaro May:
Oil'' fit Mispilliijii I'diiii, wiiioii is on a (iwclliiur Ikhiso, and is only used for vessels bound into
]Mis|i!llii)n <'rook. and diawiiiL' loss than (! feot of waior.
One at Mahoii's Ditch. Miihon's Ditch is south of Boiiilmy Hook Islaad ; and this light is also
on n dwolliiiL' house, and is useful to vos'^ols drawintr 10 foot, or less.
One on the northern point of numhay Hook Islttnd, which is likowiso on ndwolliny house, 36 feet
above the sou.
And one on the noriliorn side of the Hay, at C'oliancy Point. This light is on the larboard side,
at the oiilranoo of Cohaiioy Crook.
Tlioro is a'so a liirhiliouso on the starboard siilo, at the oittrnnco of Christiana Creek. Christiana
Crook is nhdiit 4 miles above Now Ciistie, ami loads up to Wiliniiigtoii, Uehiware.
tFort Delaware has been destroyed by fire, which prevents a Light being exhibited.
w^^iamaimiHm
y^
222
IlLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PIT-OT.
MOON
■ s.
s.
K. hy \
K.
s.
K.
8.
S. K.
s.
i.v !•:.
s.
s.
s. \\.
s.
\v.
■ iiKiK-' Cull at st'ii .
nicuin and Miiideii 1: lands on vdui- larl)i)anl hand, ia'cpin;.' your staiix: <i(J hand hesi on
board Idl you comk- u|i with ''IJillii^^'s Port, («hicl' i< VI niilcH (Vomi Phil;i(h'l|)hia,)
wlicn you will haul up I'ur .Mud I'ort : hul i)"lor<; you < oiu'j up with li'is I'ort, you will
sei* a black buoy in chaniicl way. c hicii you .'lay sjo v.los.: to. Run d'lect tor this I'oit,
which is an K. N. 10. coiusc, till vou are abreast of it, wlien you wil ^ r a -mull island
on your larboard, and another on )o.:r liir! >< rd h;u.>d, which vou iini-i ^o between.
When you have passed between these ■^i.ulds, s'.-er 1' b\ N. two miles, when you must
haul u|) N. K. by .\. lor (ilouce- Ur I'niii, distant (<n ■ mile, from which you must keep
vour larboard hand best (ui boacd, and sHict N .> iiiiu.s, wliich will carry you opposite
Philadelphia. ^
TIDE 'JWl'.LE.
Capo May.
("ape Ilenlopen.
Hro'.vii and Prandywinc.
J5ond)ay Hook.
Ueedy island.
New Castle.
Chester.
Philadelphia.
i^elting oj llie Tit/rs within the Bti'j of the Cupts.
First quarter flood W. N. W.
Second to last (|uarter, , N. N. W.
First quarter ebb, .... K. S. K,
Second to last (|iiartei,, S. S. JO.
CAPE flENLOPKN To fCAPK HKNKV.—'i'his coast is studded with shoals,
lying at a distance oil", I'rom :{ to () miles I'liiii the nearest poiiu of land. The (irst is tliB
l"fen and Chickens, the nortiieru point of which lies E., a little southerly, from Cape
Henlopen light, and runs oil" S. E. by .S. ."> m/lcs ; the Cap, on which there are 3 la-
thoms, lies S. E., easterly, (>\ miles ; Iiidi;r., IViver Simisl, on which there arc 3 fathoms,
S. by E. 4 E., 1') miles. " '■'"■ '
miles from
BatiK and Sinepuxent Shoals. The next shoals are those ijenerally known by
of Chincoteat^tie Slioals, and are chist.-red around the southern end of .\ssateague Isl-
and, on which there is a liffhihouse containing a fixed li;;hf. These shoals have <\ec\i
chaiujels between them, but they are only attempted by the coasters. From Chiiico-
teaa;ue to Capo Charles the laud trends S. S. W. .', W., with several barred iidels. The
land is low, sandy and marshy.
;s S. E., easterly, (>\ miles ; lmli;r., IViver Shoal, on which there arc 3 fathoms,
4 E., 1') miles." The Little (lull Pviik, on which there are PJ feet, lies E. 10
\\ the south end of Fenwick's Island. Within the Little Gull lies the (4ull
Sinepuxent Shoals. The next shoals are those ijenerally known by the name
Remarks on Ike land J'ruin Cape ITenlvpcn to Chincolmgue Shoals.
CAPE TTFNLOPEN.— Pvehobotli Bay lies 9 utiles to the southward of the light-
house. T." !'.>>• is only for small vessels fliat draw not more than G feet water. The
nerth end oi ! '< - /ick's Island lies 10 miles to the southward of tlie lighthouse, and sej)a-
rates Delaware from Maryland. It has a grove of trees on it, and you will have (i or 7
fathoms water within a league of the land, and a strong current setting to the southward.
When you are within half a mile of Fenwi(;k aiul Chiucoteague Shoals, (Chincoteaguo
Light, which is a fixed light, is on the S. 10. jxtint of Assetague Island,) you will have
12 fathoms water. The land from ( 'hincoteague to ('ape Charles makes broken land,
"with islands and several small inlets. There is a good harbcjr within Chiin'oteague
Shoals, which goes by the same name. Maioinkin Harbor has PJ feet water on the bar
at spring tides. In running in for the bar, you will have gradual soundings from 7 fa-
thoins. One cable's length from thi; l)ar, you will have 'ij to 'J fathoms.
In running (fvir the bar, keep the north shore on board, and steer .S. W. On the lar-
board hand, one mile from the bar, give the point a small berth, and round in to the N.
W. and anchor in 1 fathoms, water.
To the northwaril of the bar, one (|uarter of a mile, lies the wreck of a vessel. From
the bar up the inlet, tlic navigation is very <langerous, being filled with oyster beds.
•This is a high snndy point, nnd blufl".
t Tills Cape is oh the iarboard I'.arui tfoing in, and lies 12 miles S. l)y W. of Cnpc Charles, both
of which I'unn the cntrani'c of Chesapeake Bay. On it i.s a lijihthonse whose lantern is elevated 120
feet above the sea, containing a fixed Jiyht. The hghi cannot be seen at u great distance.
imtim
miiiiHuifi0ihi.^=;^-,t} .sf.
'sȤitec.
•'-">---iiii 'II »Ti—'t^niijij ig
wWrtIL
tnvl)> <iil iinnd licsl on
I tVoiii Pliil:i(U'l()liia,)
iib li'is fort, vdii will
Lin ilnect Cor this I'oit,
wil s r .1 „inuil i.-liind
>n !:!ii''i ^o in'twrt'ii.
ijilcs, when you must
wliich you must kc'e|)
II c;ury you opposite
opon.
J'laiulywinc.
ook.
nd.
i:i.
rs.
.\v.
.N.
.K.
.S.
w.
8. K.
y. E.
» studded with shoulp,
laud. Tlw (irst is iIib
<outlifily, froui (.'ape
which thfio are '3 ta-
il there are 3 fathoms,
are IJ feet, lies E. 10
lie (Jiill lies the (lull
y known i)y the name
lid of Assat(!ague Isl-
se shoals have deep
ters. From Chinco-
al barred inlets. The
uc Shoals.
uthward of the li<;ht-
II () feet water. The
lighthouse, and sepa-
I you will have 6 or 7
ting to tho southward,
lioals, {(Jhincoteaguo
sland,) you will have
>• makes liroken land,
within (Jhiucoteai'ue
feet water on the bar
soundings from 7 fa-
lioms.
r S. W. On the lar-
l round in to tlio N.
:k of a vessel. Fnuu
with oyster beds.
'. of Cape Charles, Loth
antcri! is cl<'vated 120
great diecance.
BLUNT .S AMEIIFC.VN COAST PILOT.
223
iioni 7 111 H i'ltlioms,
1 ir i;i,'r!' ral runs from
w i)t northward, von
These are very dans^erons harltors in a !.^ale of witvl, but you may rirJ»' along shore
with the wind fidiii N. \V^ to S. \\ . When ihe wind blows'iiard at N. K. or E. N. E.,
,v;d yoii are in si^-hl of Cliincoteagne Sh(,,ds, your imiI; iliaiu e for sat'etv is to stand tit
the southward ; for you cannot (dear the laud to the northward, nr go into the harbor of
Chnicoteagun. VVhon the win I is t" tlie i;astw,;rd, it is <;ener,dly tl'lck wi ather on the
coast. After you pa-ts to the soiitli\ ard of ' 'liincott-'mie, ste< ■- .<. S. .V lor r!>e hgiit-
hou.'jc on Cape Ucmy, (n (!,(, inirtli' i. par' of .^l.t n.ipiu.u'o Sifi>al:. lies' ■! oi j leagues
to the nortinvaid of Siuith's Islaiul,* and tji" southern par' <f tin iit cofiies near ilu-ast
of said island. In steering to the S, W. westward, 5 or b leagues ^. E. of Suiitas Isl-
.'•nd, you will have 12 or i:! fathoms, and in some place.- ;'• aiwi 1 fi'l. in>.. \\ lieu you
are ;•() leagues from the himl, in liie lalitiide of .m ."Id', you will >, i' c fr<" ' Mi to .'J.j la-
thorns; but when to tin? southward ot' tJajie llcniy, you will ha
within a league of tht iaiiJ, and a strong southe'.ly curient. wh
•J to J.V knots an hour.
CAPES OF Vlll(;i.\IA.— In coming from sen and falling i:
may make an island called Hog Island, which lias a shoal on the N. E. side, .0 >,iiles from
tiie island, and also .Macliapungo Island ; the latter is a smaller island. Ho:ig Island and
Smith's Island are about (J or 7 leagues tVom each other, and the latter has a liahthoulW
oil it. Hog Island is longer than .Smith's ; the trees stand more open, and are not so
thick as on Smith's Island, and in iioing on to the southward from ort' Hog Island, you
wdl make Sand- Hills which lie between Hog Island and .Smith's Island, being a sure
mark you have not passed Smith's Island. He careful not to come nearer than 7 fath-
oms when olf the sami hills, as nearer than that deptli the ground is broken.
Smith's Island is the lirst island after passing the sand hills above mentioned ; on the
iiorthern end of it there are sonic straggliug trees whicli appear like a grove, but which
join on to the island. As you draw u|) with Smith's I.-^l nid, y(>u may haul into 6 and 5
fathoms, till you get near abreast of it.
.Smith's Island is a good pl.ir-e to anchor under, with the winds from N. N. W. to W.
N. \V. and vessels often come to there if the wind is coininfr out from N. and westwarcf.
If you intend to anchor th< re, bring the light to bear W. S. W. and run for it, and
you may go in as near as your draft of water will admit, into three fathoms or less, if you
choose; you will have blue mini and san !. and when you get under way from thence,
steer .S. by W. till you cross the north ( liannel in 7[ fathoms ; keep on until you raise
your ground into o fathortis on the Middle (iround, then steer S. W. which will cross the
Middle in 4 fathoms: keep on .S. W. untii you deepen into (> or 7 fathoms, ship channel;
then with a strong l-'cc/.e steer \V. by N. which will cairy you across in deep water untii
you raise your ground on the Horse Shoe. When at anchor I'nder Smith's Island,
Cape Henry light bears about S. .S. W.
In coining in from the southward, bound to Cape Henry, !«eep '■ > 7 fathouii: until you
begin to draw up with False Cape, which lies about 7 leagues from Cape Henry towards
Currituck ; then •) to 10 iiithoms, is full near enough to False Cape. After you have got
to t!ie northward of Ful.-.u Cape, you may then keep ; , >in in 7, and 'J fathoms (ship
channel) till you get up with Cape Henry. Fro'r' c.'f ' oanokc the soundings along
shore is hard sand all along until nearly up with Cape I •'■ .iiy, v uen it is sticky bottotii,
and you will be in channel way.
The shori! betweiui False Cape and ('ape Henry n Kos in like a bay, sometlung like
Lynhaven Hay, and in tliicik weather a stranger iiiigiit n; lako it for Ijynb''ven Hay, and
False Cape for Cape Henry, il' it is so thick that the ii.:i-uor -e on the latter cannot be
seen ; but in ••ound Falsi
aise cape
sticky bottom, and in some jilacc- very tough bott
Bay
om.
The passage between Cajie ( iiarlcs and Outer Middle is little known, and not fre-
quented by largi! vessels. It is onlv used bv small vessels of d or 10 feet water.
HAMPTON ROADS— When abreast of Cape Henry light, steer W. by N. or W. 1
N. till you get on the Horse .Shoe, in 5 fathoms, sandy bottom. There are no sound-
ings at 5 fathoms on those courses between Cape Henry and the .Shoe. The first sonnti-
ings on the .Shoe, on those courses, are (> to 7 fathoms, a sticky or tough bottom, and
the distance about 'I miles fiain Cape Henry Light, but tlio .'') fathoms sandy is about a
mile farther on the Shoe (say about -5 miles from Cape Henry Light) where vessels can an-
chor. Then steer west until you gel on the south side of the channel, for an ebb tidt.; ; but
tide aflood, steer W. ^ N. or W. by N. Tliose courses will carry you into 5 fathoms on the
•On Smith's Island, which lies north easterly t'nm Cape Charles, a li?hihou9c is erected show,
ing a revolvim; light, ilistingiiishin"' it from that on Cajie Henlopen, \vhich is a fixed lin,!M. ;*■ des-
cribed in note to page '2H), and tli'.' one on • '(i|ie Henry, duscnbed above, wiiich also exhibits ;
Hxed light.
I
i j
;',/
H
^iX-^^-^ff-
:*
2:^4
BLU>T S AMKRICAIV COAST I'lLOT.
■■ •,
■ R
I (i
F i.
Houth siiic; I lien you may sii-cr W. N. W., wliicli will cany you itito G or 7 fatlioms,
mick_. In,,: 111, iiiilil iiiiuly ii|) uiili ♦ Wiliini^liliy's I'oiiit, and ulii'ii \i)ii (lcr|)cii yotir
V i'tfr lo '/ (ir 11) (atlioins on your W. .N. W . cmirsi', you liavt- passed ilit- l)ar oil W'll-
l<MU',li()y's I'oiut ; llicti luiiii; f ( )l(l I'oiiit Coinloit lii^ihl to luar wtsi, or W. hy S., and'
run tor it, until nearly up with it (say wiiiiiii hall' a mile) hut lake care and no no nearer
tu I lamptoii liar on the north side, tliaii ID lalhoms, it heini; sleep to ; then haul up
S. \V. iiy W. till you hrini; Oid Toint ( 'oiiirorl Li^lit lo hear ahoiit .\. W. ; then steer
S. W. lor the Koads, ,'j, li, or 7 lailioius, jiood anchoriiiy, hut i;o no nearer to the south
.shore than '.) lalhoiiis, lest the i>ar ttU' So\V( Ws Toinl hooks you in. Should you, alter
passinsj W'llloiiiihhy's I'oint, I'all into H or If; liithoms, Old I'oinl Comlort Liuhihoiise
hearing; W. .\. \\'.. steer up S. W. Iiy \\'., hui ;;o no nearer to I lampion Mar on the north
side 'iian ID lathoiiis, it heini: steep t<
O, until Mill \>,\-
•ll"s I
(lint, when
Ol
'oiiil
(Joiulort liearin;; N. K. you will lall into 7, H, and 'J talhonis ^ood aiichoriii!;. When up
with Old Point, steer S. W'., which course continued will liniii; a low trci' halt way he-
tween the li;;lithouse and the house occupied hy the Colonel, which will carry you in-
.side .Lowell's I'oint; then haul lo the soiithwaiil till the li::ht lioat oil' Craiiey Island
hears S. Iiy 10., which course you coniinue till u|) with her, leaviii;,' her on the siariioard
hand, hut he car<'riil not to shut 'he liyhlliouse in witii Lowell's I'oiui, till the li^lil boat
oil Craney Island hears .*s. hy K.
If requisite, when enleriiis; t!u! Capes, and advisable to anchor in I^ynliaven Hay, yort
III
iiy run in, with the lii^hthoiise h«'arin<i W. by S., as this course
lead to the i lian-
iiel-way, in iVom 7 to JD rathoius, sticky bottom It is then proper to lake soundin;;.s
towards the southern slior
ind in order to this, steer west until \ou have advanced to
a short distance from the lighthouse ; then rounding the point you may haul in the bay,
and drop an anchor as most convenient, in Ironi 7 to 4 lathoins.
Rk.M.^hks. — In steering; \V. N. \V., as betore mentioned, should you (Jeepen your
water to 'J or 10 fathoms, or lutire, you may know you have passed the bar oil' W'illougir-
by's Point.
If going along on the .south side, you shoaleii yotir water Iroui •') fatlioins, haul oil" to
the northwaril and keep in about () or 7 fatliiuns. till you jiidfj;e yourselt iiearly up with
Willougliby's Point; go no nearer lo it than 7 l"ath(uns. Iiy hauling to the northward
you will deepen the water. On the llorse-shoe side the botlniii is hard sand, and on
the south side it is soft i)ottom, until drawim: on to W'illoiiuhbv's Point, where it is hard :
therefore, beins; on the south side, where the uround
is solf, you may always
know
drawing up with W'llloughby's I'oint as soon as you get hard sandy bottom. Then haul
ofi'as before directed, tor Old Point Comfort l/i::iit.
OF TilK THI.MliLK.— It is a small lump S. W. Iiom the llorse-shoe, with ai)out
'~ 'fljiJjo'"*' water on it. It is sleep to, say 7 fathoms; but, being small, it is (piickly
ed. It li( a little below W'llloughhy's I'oint, on the opposite side, to avoid whi<li
IS the reason why it is necessary to get soundiM.:s fust on the llorse-shoe. TIk; 'rhimble
IS a
bout
)r 2 iiiih s olf the sliore. Near tiie 'I'liiiiilile you uill have sticky bottom,
uttd on the Horse-shoe hard sand.
f Back River Point Liglil, which is revcdving, bearing N. N. W., you are abreast of
llie Thiuible. The light bears N. ] W. from the ll .ating liglit off VVilloughby's Spit,
Jj piiles distant.
There is good anchoring all over tlie Shoe, from .'5.' to 4 miles from land, to the tail
or outer part of it, and higher in .s'hore for small vess«'ls.
As the .setting of the tide varies luiich at different stages thereof, atteiilioii sliould be
paid as well to the bearing of the light as to the soundings, when running iij) from the
cape to Willough!)y's Point, for tear you cross the channel.
* A tioating light vessel has been stationed oil' Willoiiifliby's Spit, in 3i lailioms water : —
Old Point Coinfoit Lifrbt liearintr W. i N., distant 2 miles.
Black River Point Lijilit, IS'.i W 3i do.
Ca|)e Henry Litrlit, E. 8. K lU do.
Willoujihbv's Bluir, S. S. E 2 do.
The Rii.Ry W. S. 'W' 3 do.
Vessels going out or coniinj; into Hanipion Ruads, slidiild not jiass to the souiiiward of the litrlit
vessel. She may be distiiitfuislied from the litrbi at Uld Point, by having two laiiturns — one more
elevared tlinn tht- other. A liell will l)e rung in foirfiy weather.
t Old Point Comfort Litrlnlioiisolies on the starboard hand, luars W. N. W. from ('a|ie Henry
Li|{ht, fj leagues distant, and is the guide to vessels bound to Norfolk or James River. It shows a
fixed lii.dit.
t On Hack River Point a lighthouse, showing a revolving iight, elevated 40 feet above the river,
is built, which aerrcs us a guide to vessels navigating the river.
■MM>*i*M<9i4
mOt-mJUm
A'r r.-mms,'>m'»»Tf;:
^'^!t**Pfe-
~~f:
ftltJNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
225
into I, or 7 CailioiMs,
J<'ii >oii (le«;|)cri your'
ssi'd I he har (ill' U'l).
jst, or \V. I)y S., and-
■ irc and <r() no ncanr
|''|> to ; llu'ii haul up
|l N. W.; t|R.,i .si,.,.r
') nearer Id ilie s.inih
>>lM)nld sou, aliiT
iCnnilorr l/i.uliilion.se
"I'll IJaron the north
j>ini, wlifii Old I'oint
lichorinj'. Wjien nj)
low irei- halCuav lie-
l<h Hill tanv von in-
fiit oil' ( raiiev Island
lifr on the si'arljoani
|int, tilhiie li,;iit boat
f-viiliaveti I'.av, vou
ill lead to tlie'dlan-
t'r to lake soundings
on have advanced to
may haul in the bay,
• I you deepen )our
iL' bar oli' U'illoui^h-
liifhonis, iiaul oil" to
irsell' nearly np with
iiii lo the northward
I"* liiird sand, and on
)int, where ii is hard :
'U may always know
bottom. 'J'lnn haul
ise-shoe, witJi about
i; Miiall, it is (iniekly
side, to ayoid whi( ii
iHie. 'J'lie 'riiimble
Imve sticky bottom,
, you are abreast of
V\ illoui-hby's fjpit,
om land, to the tail
attention should be
iniiiii:; uj) irom tlio
loitis water: —
■: 8 miles.
3i do.
i:j do.
2 do.
3 do.
suiiihward of ilie litrlit
) laiileriis — one more
■V. from Cape Henry
i River. It shows a
feet above the river,
1P"rorfi llamp'on Roads to Norfolk the channel is intricate to strrujp' < nuftyvc sliould
yetnniinend anchoriiii; in the J{oad, lint the following directions, strictly followed, will
carry thfiii to .Norfolk ;
As you a|)])roacli ( >l(i Point t'oinfort. you will disrover a low tree standing to iho
westward of tlie lighthouse; .stfer S. \V. till yon brinn this trt-e over the lioust; (»(;cu-
pied by the Colonel, which is tlie (irst house to the westward, nnd painl'd white ; con-
tinue this course till up with Sowcll's I'oint, when yon may li;uil to the southward till
tVie li'^ht boat olf *('raney Island bears S. by K.. (diserviiif: at the s.mie time not to shut
< )ld I'oint [jifjht in with Sowcll's I'oiiit, and continue steeriiii; S. by \]. till vou |)ass the
liirht boat, leavint; her on your starboard hand ; then take your soundinu's off Ijambert'.'*
I'oint, on the larboard hand, in 4 fathoms, and steer S. S. K. till you i;el inio;j fathoms;
tlirn S. K. .', K. till vou net up to the l-'ort, .'f niilesdistant, having from .'> to <> fathoms.
CAI'K HKNKV LKiiiTllOISi:.— When comin- from ' sra in the latitmh? of
Cape Henry, you meet w ith soiiii(!ini;s about -Jo leajiwes off, which you may observe by
tlic cidor ol'the water. In the south edi;e of the bank you will have 10 fuhoms water,
which will shoal to "JO, and still decrease a.- you approach the shore. t;enerally sandy bot-
tom. Ill clear weather, you "nay see the land wlnn in about 10 or 11 fathoms, rej^ulai
•oundiii^«. at which time you wiM h;- alxtiit .') leairues to the southward (d' it. To tin
northward of the land, in b fathoms, the s<inndiiius are irre;:ular and the ground roarseri
III eomini; in, with the wind northwardly, you must be careful of the outer part of tin
Middle (Iroiuid, which lies 'J miles E. N. K. from (.'ai)e Henry, and 7 miles S. E. by E
from Cape Charles. You may fr» so near it as to brine Cape Henry to bear W. \ S
which will carry you round the tail of it, in 1 ', or '> fathoms water, when you will deepe
into 11. 1 J, or l.i fathoms, and then haul away for the bay, the cape bein^ steepto. Tt
channel between the Cape and Middle Ground, is ai)out -1 miles wide, and 6 and 6 fi
tiioms water close t'l the latter. When Cape Henry Lij^hthouse bears W. N. W.
W., distant about 3 leagues, it appears thus :
0'i
AVitli a fair wind you may brini; the lighthouse to bear west; but if you have the winj
■head, and are obliged to turn in, you may stand to the southward till the lighihoua^
hears ,N. W. by N., and to the northward till it bcjis W. by 8. You will Jiave 9 or
fathoms witliin a mile of the lighthouse, ami from (> to 5 fathoms close to the Mid(i
(Ground.
HOKSE-SHOE. — Tn coming in by Cape Henry, and no pilot, with a free wind,
tonimanding brec/.e, tide either ebb or (hjod, bring Cape Henry Ijtght to bear E. Sflj
and steer W. N. \V., and you will get soundings on the Shoe, 7, G, lo 5 fathoms, as aft«
described ; after that, make towards the south side, and follow directions given for Hainil
ton Iloads.
TioK. — The flood tide runs in round Cape Henry and Lynliavcn Bay, until 11 o'clock^*
on the lull and cliangt;, and out of the way of the C'liesapeake stream it Hows at 10 ; ir
Hampton Roads, at 10.',. The tide varies considcrai)ly in its direction, according to tlie
time from ei)b to flood. The ebb from .lames and York Rivers sets over the MiddU
Ground to tlie eastward, which renders navigation thereabout dangerous in the night.
fXEVV r<)[NT C().Ml>\)llT.— When you bring Cape Henry to bear S. S. E., yoil
may steer N. ^i. W. H leagues, yvhich cours.' and distance will carry you to New Poiui
Comfort. If you wish to anchor at New Point Coiiifort, which bears from the Cape]
about \. W. by N., distant "^ leagues, you must take care of the spit that runs olf th«
point al)out S. E. •Jmiles. Kuep to the westward of this point of sand, and you may ruil
in und(;rthe point, :uul anchor in 4 or 5 t'athonis water, line bottom, where you will brf
secure from northerly or N. i-. winds.
Vessels at anchor in Mobjack Ray, are exposed to the wind from E. S. E. to S. EJ
and I would therefore recommend in that case to i;o into St>vern River, where tl)ey wJ
lie sate from all winds. Your directions for this port are to bring the south point
New Point Coiidort to bear E. by S. and steer VV. by N. 2 leagues, which course vn
will continue till Severn River bears W. S. W., when you must steer into the river W.
• A light vespol, bavina one ligiit at her masthead, has been placed at the extremity of Crani
IslanJ Flats, in ElizHbeth Hiver, in 4i fathoms.
t On New Point Comfort, which fc'iia the eastern side of Mobjack Bay, is a lighthouse Conta
ing a fixed light.
89
226
BLUNT S AMKRICAN COAST IMLOT.
\
W . orS. \V fty W.wliich will cnriyyniisiifV, where yon may li<' huid-lorkrd rrninallwimU.
Jri runnii'K lor this rivi-r. yon will iiiiiKr two luuirlM'x ni' trt'cs (in vonr hiihoard liatul,
whith :it <■ 'hstitiici- ii|i|i<':ir like two iNliiiids, inn iis uiii v(|i|iida('h tluiii Noii will find
thfv Jiro OM tli«; iiciiri l:iiul. In ^oinn into this river, you itiiist krrp your lead };oih;;,
kot'p ill tilt" middle, iiiid iro liciuccn two points of ni.ir>li, ;ind you will Imve ni> mor»' tiiim
',i (iiiliuniH l)( twi'( II New point (oniroit tiiid Sivciii Kivcr. inuddy Ijottom. Vou iiiriy (j;o
to st'ii Croiii this liver with llir v\ind I'lnm S. NV. to N. \\ .
In rnniiin;i iVoin 'koiU Kivcr, when yuii open Iron Point east of New Point Liglif,
and lionnd up the l>av, \on Mill pass NdiU Spit, in :: lathoins water.
CAl'K 11I:MI\ "i:P TllK i'.AV TO l!A LTl .M( till-:.— When yoti come in from
Ben. and are lionnd up the hay, luin^' Capi- Ileiny Liylil to hear .S. ,S. K. iind steer N.
N. W. alioiit l le;imies. which w ill cany yon to the northward and westward of tin;
INJiihlle (iroiind, that lies helwrcii the two capes, and Nvlien voii have Smith's Ixlaiid ^olF
C'ape Charles) to hear K. hy S. or I'ack Hiver Point l>i;:hili(>use W. S. \V.' you will he to
the n irthward ollhe slioal pait. If you have tin; wind ahead, and are olilined to turn to
windward, you muvt not .stand fnilhcr to the eastward after the lighthouse (or the eape)
liears S. S. 10. as the western part of the Miildle (iioniid is ste« p. In staiidinj; to tli«
westward you may fin into ;!.', and I fathoms withnut (laiii;er ; hut in titnudinj^ to thf?
eastward, you must not go into less than H falhoms, as ymi will be near the Midtllo
Ground.
After you are clear of tlie Middle (iround, as hefore (<irecfcd, and have the ea|)e to
bear .S. S. K. and a fair wind, you may steer nji the hay north : i ome not to the west-
ward of north till you have (iwin's Islaii<l, which lies oil Hill's Jlay, H leagues north from
New Point (.'omforl, to hear west, to avoid a dan<;eroU8 shoal, called the Wolf Trafi,
whicli lies N. N. K., -J leagues from New Point Comfort IjijL'ht, and S. K. '_' Itannesfrom
Gwjn's Loland, whicli is small. From the Wolf Trap steer north about 11 ka;,'ues,
which will carry you to the mouth of the Potomac. In runnin<c the above eoui^e and
^nce, you will liave from 10 to -I fathonir before yon come up with the Tangier Is!- .
I, which lie olV the mouth of the Potomac Kiver. II yoii should (ome into threw
ims, as you a|)prnaeh these islandsi, you may haul a little to tlie westward, when you
deepen your water. Oil' Walts' and Tan;;iei's Islands the soundings shoalen pra-
you want to po into Rappahannock River, ofl wliich lies a lijjht vessel, whicli is
It o leagues to the northward and westward of New I'oiiif Comfort, and li league
Gwiii's Island, you must briiii; the liyht boat to bear N. W. and run for it, leaving
iFon ;he starboard hand, where you will have from 7 to .T fathoms.
Windmill I'oint is remarkable, and it appears, when bearing W. J S., 7 miles distant,
, as here represented.
: View of WiinlmiU Poinl, at tlie Amili Entntnn nf Oic HajipnhannorJc.
• This point is. just half way between New Point Comfort and Smith's Point. The
Windmill Reef now extends 'J miles from tlie I'oint to the .S. K. by K., and form< a broad
alielf of 2^, 'J, and \\ fathoms, thence shoalit;^ to llie ilry shore, on the ;'nd of which is a
floatimi light, bearing S. E. hy K. from WiiidiulU Point, two miles distant, and showing
one light.
,i As you come up with the larboard head of the river, keep your soundings on the lar-
^ai<l hand from ;i to 7 fathoms, and not deepen your water more than 7 falhoms to the
liov'hward, to avoid a long spit of saiul that Tuns off 2 miles S. K. from the northern
heail of the river, which is very steep, but keep round the southern head, in '.iie abovo
.deplli of water, where you may anchor in 7 or H fathoms, good bottom, and lie safe from
ajiiwinds.
If you wish to go into Tangier .*^ound, bring Wiiitlmill Point to bear S. W. by W. ;
jcr in N. E. by E., and you will get soundings on the Tangier Bar in ri fathoms ; the
• Tiie lighthouse on Back Riv«-r Poin'. is a revolving light, and bears from
Cape Henry N. W. J W Ifi miles.
: , Old Point Comfort N. N. E 54 do.
..'^: Jlew Point Comfort S 13i do.
I ■rnii itmmammtiilltt
'(] from all wiml«.
r laihoiird liiitui,
in \(iu will f'liij
your UmiI );<iiiii;,
ive no mure liiiiii
1. Vou inny go
cw Point Liglif,
)ti (.'Dine in from
E. <in<l Ktccr N.
wrstward of tin;
nitlr.s l.slnnil (olf
,'.' you will iu' to
l)lii;r(l (o lurn lo
i.se (or llie f.i|^()
1 stiindiiii; to llio
stnniliti;; to 111''
icnr the Miildiu
invf tlie riipe to
not to the wfst-
itrurs north from
tlic Wolf Triif.,
'".. 'J liiniicsfroin
boiit 11 k;t^iies,
ihove cour^ nid
the Tnntiicr Isl-
( (line into thrro
[ward, when you
ngs shoalen gra-
vessel, which i«!
t, and li league
III for it, leaving
, 7 miles distant,
^^M^
\nviirfc.
s Point. The
|mI forui< a liroad
nd of which is a
ht, and showing
|ings on the lar-
tathotns to the
I the northern
111, in '.lie aljova
lul lie sufe from
[s. W. hy W. ;
|) fathoms ; the
RIANT a AMERICAX COAST PILOT.
231
1
T)1RE(.'T1()NS for coming otU of the Sns()nehaiinah Kivcr with small draft of wafer
t)idv. Keep th(! eastern I'crry house oppoxiie Havre dedraie (a stone linlldinu') astern,
sTini passing near * Point < 'oncnnl liightliouse. rnn lor ;i lari;i' tree near the tlioroii;:hfare
island of Spec iitia Island, nniil yon just shut in two Loniliarily poplars, or till yon get
'J'lirkey Point and a gap in the Highlands soutli siiie of lOlk Kiver to raii^e, tior lor the
last marks ittitil yon open a single tree on the lli^lilands, south side of Sassafras Kiver,
with the easleinniosi point of SpiMiiiia Island, tlien rnn for a red hank east side of the
hay, having Landsdale's llonsr, which is a lar^'c hrirk one alioM- Havre de (irace, right
astern, tintii yon open a single tre'c, east end ol' a loiii; riik'e of lilack woods south side
of Klk liiver with 'I'lirkry Point, then X. W. westerly for tPoole Island : a short distance
helow, and on the starlioard hand after leaving I'oint Cttiieord, lies a shoal called J)evil'u
Island, which at low tidi is ncaily out of water, and on the opposite side of ilie ehannel
is a very extt.-nsive Hat or slio.d, which al.Mj must Ik; avoided b) making short lacks wheu
beatiii" in or out of the river.
NAVKiATlON OF '1111; PATAPSCO.
Directions fur Mariners, /i*?'/ Craflsinrn, S^y. Jor s/iilinn up or down the Palftpsa), and for
jiiissin^ tliruMiih the ^'irash Channel.
The Can ami l>og Pnnys heretofore used to Imoy ofi" the .'^wasli ('hatitiel and Rirer
Patajjsco, having been removed, And spar or mast buoys adopted in lieu thereof, as being
more ciMispicuous from their erect posiiinn, aiiij showing a mast of from ') to tiU feet
above the water, it is eoiiceixcd necessary to give due notice of the changes, vi/,.
The ])noys now moored are niiiid)ers5, and from 11 lo 20, and are painterl, soine of
them entirely whit'', others entirely black, and others a:;ain black at the surface of the
water and at the liead. witli wiiite between. The wliite buoys designate the south or lar-
board side of the cliaiiuel, eomini; up — the black buoys the north or starboard side — and
the white and black buoy denote the knolls that lie in the channel way, or elsewhere, and
to be avoided. Their jiarticular i)ositions are as follows :
No. ."). — A buoy painird black and white ahernately on the edge of a liard knoll of 15
feet, iimiieiliately on the Ship Channel ran^e, abreast of the easternmost Man of War
Shoal, in .■ifallmms, sticky bottom.
No. I'J. — Awhile buoy is placed on the larboard side of the cliannel, to mark the south-
cast bav.
No. ]3. — Sho'.y^ the sta.iboanl side of the channel, and is placed just at the edge of
the 7 feet knoll.
No. 11. — A while buoy in 1^* feet soft, on the outer cd^e of the Rock Point Shoal.
No. 14. — A while and bhuk stripe 1 buoy, in 18 feet soft, on the edge of a hard knoll
of 14 feet, between North Point and Rock Point.
No. 1-3. — A black buoy, in ]H iVi't soft, denotes the shoal off North Point.
No. K). — A white and black striped buoy, in ]S feet, just outside of the Rock Knolls.
No. IT. — A black buoy, in 18feet soft, on the outeredge of the Sparrow's Point Knolls,
of ILMeet hard.
No. 18. — A white buoy, in 4 fathonns soft, on the outeredge of the shoal, extending
from llawkiiTs Point 15ar.
No. 1'). — A i)lack buov, ii\ 20 feet soft, on the outer edge of a shoal of 14 feet hard, ex-
fendiiiij Iroiii SiJJlcr's I'oint ISar.
No. 20. — A i)la<k buoy, in 18 feet soft, on tlie eastern extremity of the shoal, extend-
hig from the Lazaretto.
No. 22. — There is a buoy painted black and white alternately, on the sunken rock be-
tween North 1
Note. — No
12 to 14 feet, excejit No. 19, which does not show as high.
A good berth should be given to the stripe buoys, as they are expressly placed to mark
Uie shoals.
The black buoys indicate the northern extremity of the channel.
oinl and Sparrow's Point. .♦
.O shows 12 U-<-\. above the surface of the water; all the oifllers show from
n||k passing together
naffow arui crooked;
..If) miles.
, 5i do.
,.13i do.
•Concord Liirht, at Havre dn Grace, is n fixed light, the navigation to wliii
with the port, is lit only for vessels drawiiiu; not over 8 feet ; the channel is
on the sluials are only three feet water. It is impossible to give a stranger courses aiici distances,
who must b(! guided altotjcther by the leiad, and i; should not be run in the night. ,
t Oil Poole Island is a lighthouse containing a fixed light ; it shows the way through the western
channel, in which there are only 7 feet water. Few vessels take this channel, as the eastern is %^
■afest, having from 3 to 7 fathoms water.
i !
I|-Uw3|
232
Bl.LNTS AMERICAN COAST Pli.OT.
; :
Tlif wlilli- hiiiiys iii(lir;Ui' (lie sniitlii'tii •xficmity (il'tlii' rli;iiiin'l. sii licit it is rlnngcr*
uiis to ;itt<'Mi|it to |ins>i to tlic iioi'tliuiiid of tlic lir<<1, ur to ilic boiitliwiiiil o| tiif hittrr.
IJfsidcs tli(! ;il)ov»' (•miiiiii;it<"l Inioys, tlur«' will lie phiii-cl u lihuk ;iii<l white liimy iil
llii- old mIimiI'. ;iI)|i'HnI i ri''ort Mrllciiiy, wliiili will lie No. ^?1.
S|i;ir or iiiiisi Imov^ « ill ;i|so lir plicrd ;is soon ;i-< tli"V ciiii he ('oiiipli-trd. to hiiov off
till' ship (liiiiiiii'l. Ii'iidin.', Iimiii iIh' ( ht'.siipi-.iki' Miiy into llic lti\rr l';it-.ipsco, olHliich
ilijt! iiolicc will III- t:iviii.
NKW rol.N'l' CO.MKOirr to I'oTo.MAC KI\r.K.— |."iumfliiH point :i^pitex-
tf'iids S. K. '.' miles, wliicli Villi uill jivoid liv not •.•niiiv into lc>.s ||i;in l ruthoin-i «;iier.
Altoiit /> miles N. N. I!. Inmi New I'oint ('oiiildii. lies the \\'(dr-ti;ip llmk, on wliieli
tliere iuc I J (eet :it eniiiiiioii tides; lielweeti tlii-i i^ieL iind I'oint ('i)inroit, llirre iiie H
ntid ') fiilhohis. Krom the spit, w hicli nins of)' iVom New I'oint ( 'omtoit, to thi entiMiico
of Kap|);ili;mnoel\ Hiver, the eoiiisc is N. hy W'., iiiid the distMiici* () /eamiPs. \ i\\\ may
keep in .') or ft (ailioms W4ier. Near the Wolt'-iiap itork there are 7 I'alhoms.
From the eiitranei nl' llappahaiinoek lliver, (tllwli'"'! is a lii;lit vessel slio«iin; oiio
liuht, to the (lat whii li runs oil' iVom Smiih's I'oint l.i^ii.. (wlii U is the soiiiii ^^llk• of
Potomac, Kiver,) the course is N. hy K., and the distatic li ' -atint's. N'oii may run in
6, 6, or 7 I'alhoms water. When voii draw near the shoal whicli run.s oti I'rom Smith'n
Point, yon should not co into less than 7 rathoins. This slioal extends alioiit 'J', iiiilrw
K. S. K. iVoin Smith's l>l;ind ; on its extreiiiily thi're are only two liihoms water, and
Tery near to it eastward, ihere ari' Id or 1-J rathoins. Tlie mark Cor the slio.ilesi p;irt oi'
this sand, is a house w ilh a w liilp ciiimney, staiidiiii; amoii^ the trees on the shore within
Smith's Island, oppii to the northward of the island, and liearinu west. When tliis house
bears W. hy .\., yon are to the southward of the exlninily o| the shiml : and when it
bears W. I»y S. you are to the northward id' it. 'I hat ■ hieh adds i nnsideraidy to the
danger nC this shoal, in poiii^ either r.p or down the Clirsapeake, is the Incikeii islaiiiU
which lie on the east side of the ehamiel, and the llats ot'saiid which extend I'rom ') to 6
miles to the westward from them.
'J'he Taii!;ii'r Islands lie to the southward (d'( 'oopei's Island, and tho Taii<.'if'r I'-iands
•nd Watts' Iskmd make the eiilranee (d' I'idvoiiioku Hay, wliu li bay nv nates \'iri;iiiia
from Maryland on the eastern shore.
Potomac Kiver separates ^'ir^inia from Maryland; its cntraiire is fonnei.' by Smith'?
Point on the south side, and I'oint Lixdxoiit on the north side. The distance between
these two points is abimi rs', leat;ues. On Smith's I'oint is a lii;hthon»e.
If you are lioiind to St. ."Mary's Kiver. yon must i^ive I'oint Lookout, and also the shore
about it, a good berth ; and wheiiyfui ap|)r(ia< h St. (Jeorce's Isliind, you must keep nearer
to the main than to the shoal, which extuini.s Iroiii the Island, ^'our course into tho
river is N. W., and as it is all ojicn to your view, you may anchor when you please in a
oj^ fathoms water.
If you are bound to Wicoinack, in Potomac River, your couise from the cast end of
St. (Jeorgc's Island to Kaj:;r;ed i'oint i:i .N. W. .', \V. and the distance 2 leaaiu-s. ( )ii
the south orhnboard side, there are liats lyiiii; oil' from the siiore, which in some jdacos
extend one mile ; come no nearer to them than 7 fathoms. In the middle of the channel
you will have'll, 10, l.'i, 10, apd H fatlioms. Vou must i,'ive Ha;'j;ed I'oint a good berth,
to avoid the shoal, which extends from it nearly one mile, l^'roin Kai;t;ril I'oint to Cle-
ment's Islana your course is W. ^ N., and the distance •,' leaiiues. In the middle of the
channel you will have d, .''), 4i, and 7 fathoms water.' On tlie south side, a little below
Clement's Island, is Nomine Kay. From abreast of Cleni'^nt's Island steer W. N. W.
in 6, 5, aiul 4 fathoms wafer, until you have Wicoinack Kiver open; tlnii pass pretty
near to the island, which is on the east side of the entrance, in order to avoid the shoal
which runs olf from the ])oint the west si'e. Steer alioiit north into the river, and aiulior
on the south side of iN'cw ton's Point, in 5, or 4,' fathoms water.
POTOMAC RIVHR TO PATUXENT Kl\ KK.— Krom Point Lookout a flat
runs off a considerable way, which you must be careful to avoid, by not comiu'j; any
nearer to it than 7 or H fathoms water. Opposiie tliis point, the flat ol' Taii^iiT Islands
extends so far to the westward as to narrow the channel of the Chesapeake to about 4^
miles. This part of the flat is steep, and has l.T fathoms close to it. .\bout two lea^^ues
to the northward of Point Lookout is Point Acain, ollwhich, above 2 miles, there lies a
shoal. About .'5 leagues to tiie northward of I'oint A<:ain, is Cedar Point. Ketween
them, 7 or 8 falhpms is a good depth to keej) in. Nearer to the flat on the cast side,
there are 10, 16, 9, and 11 fathoms.
Cedar Point is on tb^ south side of the entrance of Patuxcnt River. The ground is
low and sandy, ahd ha» 6K>rr.c straggling trees standing on it. From tliis point, a Hat ex-
tends to the eastward, and also to the northward. On this north side of the river there
varc high hills, called Cliffs, with trees on them; and from this .<«ide also a flat extends,
It the shodlings on each side of the channel are gradual and the ground soft. lu th«
'W^'
1 i
i:it ii IN (Linger*
ihr l.itlff.
w liitc lino) Ht
■t<(l. to l>llo> off
jisco, ol' wliich
point ;i ^-jiif cx-
l'iitlioiii-< «;iirr.
kork, (III mIik'Ii
)t. iliprc iiii' H
In tllC I'lltl'illii'i;
ics. \'(Ui limy
mis.
I'l sIlliU iiiu oiiu
sonili Hidu of
(III ni;iy rim in
II (roiii Siiiilir*
ilioiil v", iiiilfw
mis Wiiitir. iiiiil
hoalcsl pint of
tlic slioif uilliin
U'lirii tills iioii-c
nl : imil « hfii it
isi(lri;il)ly to ilic
ic liroKcn is!;iii(ls
ti'iid riiiiii .') to H
) 'r;iiu:irr l-l;iii<i«
.■pniaK's \'ii;;iiiia
nnc(! by Smith's
dist.iiife bi'iwccn
and also the slioio
must keep iienr.'r
r course into fho
•n y<ui pliMsf in S
n tlu" east end o(
• !2 Icasiucs. < 111
ill in some pluccs
lilt' olthe fliannel
oini a fiond hertii,
;i:i'd I'oiiil to Cle-
tiic middle oftho
;idi\ H little lieiow
I Meci \V. N. W.
then p;iss pretty
to avoid the .shoal
■ river, and auehor
t Lookout a flat
V not (inniD^ any
<i 'I'aiiiiier Islands
peake to about 4^-
Vlmut two lea;j.ues
miles, there lies a
I'oiut. i'.etueen
on the cast side,
•. The ground is
lis point, a Hat ex-
of the river there
dso a flat extends,
lund soft. lu tho
IU.I'NT'h AMKinr.VN COAST I'll.or.
2^3
midill'' nftlie ehannel tlipre lire H laflioms water. Iliuhertip m Ronsjy's Poinl on the
soiilli side, and the Drum I'oinf oti tin' north side : the latter is a low .sandy point. Voii
may amhor wiilniiil these |)oml^. or \oii may ^o liirlher up the river, always ob.'^erving
(lie lollovvmi: i^eneril rule in all ihe deepbavs thrimuhoiit \'iru;iiiia and ALuyland, vi/..
toevciv point, more especiiilly \«lii'ie ilie l.md is low, ^ive a t^ood berth in paHtiin^, bo-
e»usc <4()it.<i, or llat.t or.saii(l extend Iroiii theMi,!Uid cunttuijuenlly the water it siiual iu such
' ( U'K IIK.NKV ()l{ LVNMAVK.V I5AV, VOUK III VKH.— As Tape Henry
S. S. K. would lead voii u'-ar the Mil ol the Middle (iroiind, and as the proceedin^
Willi It at S. K. would (any you on the Mil and north edi;e ol' the Ilorse-shoe, your
kee|)iii^ the Cape on any bearing betwHcn .'^. .S, K. and S. K. will carry you through be-
tween the two .shoaU. On the tad, and alonji; the north side of the liurs(>-shue, tho
slicialiii;;s are i;iadual. With Cape llemy bearing; fS. .S. K. or S. K. by 8., steer N. N.
W , or .N. W. by N. until you briii.; ( ape ( harbs to bear K. by N. : you are then to tho
norlhward of the llorse-shoe, and may steer .N. W. or \. W. by W., aecordiim as you
have the wind and tide. As the ebb sets fUroni; out of the Chesapeake over the llorse-
-lioe.yoii miisi not, with a northerly wind and ebb tide, approach any nearer to the shoal
4IM11 .') or '>ralhoms water. When you Inive brought .New I'oint Comfort to bear N. N.
W. and r.aek Kiver Lii:ht to bear .'^. by W., you are then on the tail of Vork S|)it, in ,'1
lallioiiis water. \\ Men yon are a little above iiont,' Isle, you must not (•oiue any nearer
to th(! shore than 'i fathoms, until you enter the river above them.irsh; then kee|) in 9 or
ID fathoms, and run up and anelnir between Vork and (iloitee.stcr, iu what depth you
pleasir.
W'lih a eoiitraiy wind si and towards the Horse-shoe in 4J or 5 fathoms, nnd from it
into (>' or 7', fathoms, iinlil you are abreast of the entr nee ol" I'ocasiii, where there is a
cut of 7 lathoms, whieh runs close to the entrance; you 'hoiild therefore be careful to
avoiil i;oiim too far in, and thereby L'eilinu on the twil •■!;♦ extends from Toes Marsh.
When you have !.'ot thus I'ar up, yon should ;;o no neare. to the sh ire on this side, than
7 or ()', lathoms, all the way up to \'oik Town. On theoiher <ide, you should not stand
any nearer to the small i>|es on \ urk Spit, than Id or 11 fathoii's. Close to the tail of
(his spil there are () fathoms ; elose to the inidille of it there are 10 fathoms ; ami close to
it, abreast of the island •!, you will have l;i fathoms, and before you can };et another cast of
the lead you will be ashore. \V hen you have entered the river, you must not come anf
nearer to the Mat than H or ') fathoms water. This Hat extends from the north shore, af-
must one third over the river.
HJAI'K II ATTKK.VS.— This cape lies 'bout S. S. K. .'57 leapuea from Capo Henry;
between them lie the inlets o( Ciirrituik, which are shoal, and New Inlet, on which are
.') feet water. .Miout (> leagues ,\, by K. from the cajie lie the Wimble Shoals, on which
are :! and i\ fathoms water, extending N. by \V. and S. by E. about 3 miles, and is about
;{ miles wide. Tin- inner edi^e of this shoal is about :} miles from the shore, and the
soundin<;s between them H, 1(1, and 7 fathoms. About •') miles N. by W. from the north
end of tills slioal, and .{ miles S. K. from the north end of Hatteras Island, there lie some
small knolls, on which are only •) feet at low water.
Cape llati 'as Shoals extend r< miles iu a south-easterly direction, with 5 and 6 fti»
tliouis on the exiremc parts. The must dan<ferous shoal lies in lat. 35° 10' N., the midr
(11(5 of which is J n.iles distant from the cape, and has barely 9 feet water. This is called
the Diamond Shoal, betw(;en which and t!ie cajie there i.s a good passage for. small ves-
sels in moderate weathei', or when the wind is otf the land, but it would be always safest
to {fo round the shoal in 10, I 'J, and 1.') fathoms.
'IMie lighthouse at Cape Hatteras exhibits a tine light wlien in order, and can be seen
very plainly in 9 and 10 (athonis water on the out(!r part of the shoals, when only 10 feet
abovo the level of tb si;a ; but wjien on board a large vessel, it might be seen in 20or25
fathoms. The sounduigs from the cape are 2, 3, 4, 4^, 6, 6, and 7 fathoms, and theq
*0n the pilch of this cnpr, (which is low sandy land,) a lighthouse js erected, painted whitp, 97 feet
nlinve tlie level of the soa, nintriiniii!,' a fixed li^dit. There is a* good channel, three miles from the
IJL'hi, keo;)iim the land 01; Iicii' I. The liulii inar.s from the W. VV. part of the outer bHooIs, N. by W,
i \V. and from the .'^. t). jian, .V. W. distant ■'» Ipaijues ; frointhe S. W. part of the middle shoalai
within whic. vcs^i'ls hound aloiii,' the coast generally pass, the light bears N. N. W.
Tlie li;jht at Cape llatfrns, beini,' 1).') feet aliove the level of the sea, will bp^een from n considera..
ble distance without tiie outer .ihoals, and to a vessel steering from Ocraciick W. by N., W. N. W,^
or even N. W. by W., the light on the cape will tirst show, and will contiiuie to be ilsen till tho li^^'
appears within the bar. jjjF.
The point of ("ape Hatteras having made out into the sea since the lighthouse was built, the light
now stands li mile back from the point of land that makes out from it.
30
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IMAGE EVALUATION
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Photographic
Sciences
Corporation
23 WEST MAIN STREET
WEBSTER, NY. 14580
(716) 872-4503
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234
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
deepens to 9, on the 8. S. E. part. Tlieie is a ciiiiTtit witli a snuth wind wliirh runs
N. N. E. two miles per hour, and witli a mirth ^^ iiul S. S W. two miles per hour.
W. y. W. from (.'ape Jjatlera.s, H leajiues distant, is ^Ocracoek lulet, on the har ol"
which are 'J feet water ; this bar is subject to change, and should not be entered without a
pilot.
f'lrom Cape Hattera- to Cape Henry the grouml is fine sand, and to the northward of
Cape Henry, coarse sand with some shells amoiiji it.
It is high water at Cape llatteras Shoals, oii full and cham;e of the moon, at 3 o'clock
and 45 minutes, and the tide dows I'rom 4 to 5 feet, being i|,overned by the winds in the
offing, and in easterly gales it runs several feet liiglier.
On a point of land on the south side of Pamtico Kiver, 35 miles below Washington,
running into Pamtieo Sound, stands a lighthouse, ;;() feet above the level of the sea,
with a fixed light.
Vessels bound to Washington, I'rom the S. W. end of Royal Shoal, on which is a light
boat, will make their course good N. \V. by N., which will bring them up the main
channel of Pamtieo River, and will be w ithin a quarter of a unle of the light.
tCAPE LOOKOUT— Cape Lookout lies in .",4^ 37' N. lat. and 7()° 33' W. long..
and the Cape Woods (where the lighthouse is) in lat. 34^ o'J' N. and long. 7(/^ 3-^' W.
The shoals extend from the cape 10 mil'cs, in a S. S. E. direction, being broken ground
as far as lat. 34° ii8' N. In that latitude there are 14 fathoms water, and from thence to
the Gulf Stream, the soundings are gradual, 'Jo fathoms : the tracks are faithfully laid
down in the chart, (published by E. iscii. W. Blunt,) togetlier with all the soundings
from the outer part of the shoal to the edge of the (lulf Stream.
The outer part of Cape Lookout Shoals lies S. W. | W. '22 leagues from Cape Uat-
teras, and 22 leagues S. W. f W. from the outer part of Cape Hatteras Shoals. Seven
miles from Cape Lookout Light lies a shoal which m dry at low water, bearing S. }, E.
from the light ; the sea breaks constantly S. E. from this shoal for the distance of 2 miles,
which is the S. E. point of breakers. l?etween this shoal and the shore there are nu-
merous spots, on which are l^and l\ fathoms; south of this shoal the least water is 2:^-
fathouis. On the eastern part of Cape Lookout Shoals there are 2t, fathoms, near them;
pn the northern and southern sides, are 4, 5, and 9 fathoms. On the N. and E. of Cape
Lookout Shoals you will have 7 and 8 fathoms, dead, dark, broken shells, with sand.
- Old Topsail Inlet, or entrance to I'eaufort, lies abou: 3 leagues W. N. AV. irom Cape
Xiookout. It has 2^ fathoms water, but the eastern side of the entrance is formed by a
long spit extending westward. The channel in lies first N. E. by E. and then alters
fradually round the flat, which extends from the l-uboard or western side to theN. JN. \V.
a proceeding up to Beaufort, you will have ;., 4, and 3 fathoms in the channel, and
may anchor in 3 fathoms at low water.
if you wish to come within the shoals of Cape Lookout, after making Beaufort, keep
along the shore at the distance of 2 miles, until you come up with the point of sand form-
ing a pretty good harbor, with (he wind from the N. W. to E. for small vessels. If
bound to the northward, keep, as near as you can jxulge, the same distance, or a little
less, from the beach, until you bring th0 lightliouse to bear N. W. by N. ; you will at
that distance have not less than quarter less tluee ; then keep X. E., a. d you will deepen
to 5 and 6 fathoms in a few nlinutes.
* At the entrance, on Ocracock Island, a lighthouse is erected, cxhibitinp a revolving li^liti which
youleaveon your starboard hiind entering the Inlet. The time of each revolution is two minutes.
It IB elevated 75 feet above the water.
A floating light is stationed within the point of the 9 feet shoal, near Peach's Hole Swash. SIio
is moored in 2 fathoms water, with the light on Ocracock bearing S. E., distant 2| miles ; Shell
Caede bearing S. W. i W. 4i miles, and die light boat at the S. W. Straddle W. by S. 'J miles. A
bell will be tolled at intervals in thick apd foggy weather.
A floating light is also moored at the mouth of Ncuse River. She is moored in 4^ fathoms water,
Sticky bottom, near the upper edge or western side of the shoal, extending out from the point of
marsh with the point bearing due south, distant about diree miles ; (nim Thicket, bearing S. W.
^W. J Brant Island due N. ; Swan Island S. E., and the South West Straddle LightBoat due east
A bell of 200 lbs. weight wdl be tolled at intervals, in thick rnd foggy weather.
+ Cape Lookout Lighthouse isyjainted with red and white strijirs horizontally, and can be seen
16 or 18 miles, and resembles a ship under sail. It contains a fixed light, elevated 100 fret above
the level of the sea. The house is surrounded by a small growth of tnes, from which a bold sand
beach extends in a S. E. direction about 3 miles, in the centre of which are small hillocks of sand.
This light, althoughjieen clearly all night, until near the approach of day, caimot then be discerned,
owing, it is thoughj|m u mist that rises between the vessel and the lamjis. It is judged imprudent
to approach the«ho8ls of Lookout in the night nearer than 7 futhoms on the east, or 10 on the west
side.
"'^ST" 'iM»r'-. I' — f-*™"*
Ii wind wliifli runs
lilcN per hour.
I'lft, on tlio bar of
e enttreil witliout a
o the nortliwnnl of
moon, at J o'clock
ly the winds in ihu
)clow Washington,
e level of the sea,
on which is a hgljt
tliem up the main
"ifiht.
7()°^;j' W. lone.,
long. 76^ 3-' W.
ing broken gnuind
md from thence to
are faithfiillv Jaid
1 all the soundings
o
;s Ironi Ca].<e Hat-
as yiioals. yeven
■r, bcariiifi; ,S. J E.
lititanceoi'2nifle.«,
!ore there are nu-
e least water is -2},-
thonis, nearthcin";
N. and E. of Cape
p1!s, witii sand.
N. W. from Capo
ce is formed by a
E. and then alters
ie to theN. j\. \V.
1 the channel, and
ng Beaufort, keep
oint of sand forni-
sniall vessels. If
istance, or a little
r N. ; you will at
■l}ou will deepen
volvinj,' lifrlit, which
ion is two minutes.
Hole Swash. Sho
nt 2| miles ; Shell
• by S. <J miles. A
4i fathoms water,
t from die point of
et, benrintr S. W.
iightBoat due east
, and can bo seen
cd TOO fret above
vliich a bold sand
I hillocks of sand,
dicri 1)0 discerned,
judged imprudent
or 10 on the west
IIMINT ri AMKUICAN COAST riLOi\
^35
West. 10 leagues from Cape Tiookout, lies Bougue Inlet, on which are 8 feot waV*r{
W. liv S. :', 8. 4', leagues from Hougue Inlet, lies New River, on which you have 8 feet
water; S. \V" -J W., b leagues from Sew River ijight,lies New Topsail Inlet, on which
are 10 feet water; 8. W. | W. from New Topsail Inlet, ;) leagues distant, you make
Decji Inlet, on which are 7 feet water; S. S. W. fiom Dee]) Inlet, () leagues, lies Nevr
Inlet, on which are 7 feet water. This inlet is between the sea coast and N. E. end of
Smith's Island. It will admit vessi^ls drawing (> feet, and is about 2 miles wide at its
entrance, having 7 feet water, at low tide, over th.e bar. It continues its breadth to the
flat, and is navigable for large vessels 'Jl miles from its mouth, and i20 miles to Wilming-'
ton, to which town vessels drawing 10 or 1'2 feet can reach without any risk. S. by E.,
8 leagues from the New Inlet, will carry you into lo fatliems, south froui the Fryuig*
pan Shoals.
CAPE FEAR LIGHTHOUSE.— Near the western bend of the Erying-pAu Shoal,
about 1.5 miles from the land on the S. W. end of Smith's Island, Bald Head Lighthouse
is erectt>d. It is painted black, in order to distiiiirnish it from the lighthouse on Federal
i'oint, from which it bears about S. W. by S. distant H'^ miles, and stands one mile from
ilie sea, ')U I'eet high, and contains a fixed light. 'V\\t' lamps are 110 feet above the level
of the sea, and 50 feet above the tops of the trees which stand on the hills between the
light and the sea. Smith and Oak Islands form the main entrance into the river.
To go over the main b;u-, bring the lighthouse to bear N. ^ E. The buoy is within the
bar, close to it, and on the western side of the channel. From the buoy the lighthouse
bears about N. N. E., distant one and a hall" mile. On the bar, at high tide, you have
111 feet, and its rise is 5 feet. From the point of the ca])e the lighthouse bears N. W.,
distant 4 miles, and from tlie extremity of the Frying-pau Shoal, N. W. by N. ^ N., 5
leagues.
The general direction of the land from Bald Head Lighthouse to Little River, (thirty
miles from the liar,) is W. ^ S. From the western projection of Frying-pan Shoals, to
the mouth of Little River, the soundings are from 9 to 10 fathoms, sometimes sand, and
sometimes rock.
It may be necessary to observe to strangers, that, in passing the shoals, especially in a
dark night, if is most iirndent lo steer W. in lat. '.yP<^ 20' or 2iL' at most, until they shoal
their water to 7 or 8 fathoms ; by doing this they may be sure of being to the westward
of the bar.
Your course from Cape Fear Bar, when in 9 fathoms w.itc, to clear Cape Roman
Shoal, is S. W., aiirl distance 72 miles. When sailing towards these coasts, it is prudent
to keep nearly ade<rree to the southw ird of the latitude of the place you intend to makey
until you reckon yourself on the edge of the (Julf Stream, when you must be directed
by jndgnient, according to circumstances. Do not, if possible to aVoid it, sail to thft
northward of .3.3° 20', or at highest, 33° 25', until you obtain 10 fafhomS water. In this
de])th you will be within the south or outer end of the Frying-pan Shoal, which ii«$ in
lat. .33° :>,f)'. In approaching the coast, in 3'.]^ 20', your first soundings will be from 30
to .3.') fatlinms ; in this dept ii you will be very near to the edge of the Giilf Stream. ' You
will have line grey sand, with black spots, when you will get into 17 fathotqs : th^ is a
long flat in this depth of water. In steering west you will, for the first 5 or 6 Isa^es,
slioalen tlie water very little. When you come in 14 fathoms, you shoalen your wsoIlK
(jiiicker but gradually. You will see the land from 10 fathoms water, if the weather be*
clear, and may then be sure that you arc within the Frying-pan, from the outside of tbl».
shoal. To the westward of north-west no land can be seen, when without the shoals.
The currents on the coast of North Carolina are governed mostly by the wind : during^
the sununer months, the prevailing winds are south-westerly, and the currents then set
the direction of the coast to tht^ eastward, and when the southerly winds cease blowings
it changes suddenly to the contrary direction, which is a sure precursor of a north-east '
wind. •' ,
The land on Cape Lookout is very low, and canqoitbe seen more than a leagu* in the
clearest weather, from on board a sniall vessel.
[We (l(-cline giving directions for saiVmg into many ports in North Carolina, as all th«
harbors are barred, and always subject to alteration by every gale, particularly in tlxe
equinoctial storms; hut the bars create only a part of the danger in sailing into those
ports ; it is the vast' bed of shoals that lies within the bars, with their innumerable smali
channels, which give to tide so many dilierent directions that even the pilots who live oB
the spot, find it diflicnlt to carry a vessel in without some accident. Here also the west-
crlv variation appears to cease, and at Savaimah becomes easterly.]
NORTH RAR OF THE NEW INLET.— To enter, the rnark|fe^re, to bring th^
west end of Buzzard's Bay point of sand on II. Helly's. large white ^oBse in Smtthville,
and the bearings will be south-west by west, keeping the point of Smithville with these
bearings until over the bar; then keep the spit of sand or beach that makes off'(h>Ul
■r'4
'm
236
blunt' s» AMl'RICAJV COAST PILOT.
I
•Federal Point Light close on board, which will cany you into the river channel, where
there is good anchorage ) along the sand, in 3 and 4 lathunis water. On this bar there
are 10 feet at low, and Vi at high water.
OLD BAR at NEW INLET, or as now calltd. THE SOUTH BAR.— In run-
ning in when the lighthouse on Federal I'oint bears W. or W. by 8. you will nial e a
thick and high hummock ol woods, called Merryck's Wood BluO, btt'ore you nial^e fiie
light ; but should it bear to the north of west, you will make the lighthouse and blull at
the same time, the former of which may bo seen in clear weat,."ri about 15 miles, froni
h ship's deck, in about It) or 11 fathoms water, and when lirst discovered, has the aii|)ear-
ance of a distant sail. As you api)roach the light, the water becomes gradually shoal.
In 4 to 5 fathoms water, one mile and a half from the lighthouse, bearing W. S. W. to
W. there is good anchorage, soft bottom.
In running in, bring the lighthouse on with the south end of the barracks, which you
Will continue till orer the bar, and near the beach, and so along the beach, until you are
in the rivei*. On the bar, at high water, 11 to 12 feet; at low water, 6 feet only. The
depth of water, and channel, however, are subject to variation, so tliat it is not advisa-
ble for strangers, except in cases of necessity, to run in without a pilot.
THE MAIN BAR OF CAPE FEAR lUV^ER.— Vessels running down from the
Westward, should not approach nearer the Middle (iround, than to bring the (^ape (which
is the most eastern part of the Bald Head Woods) to bear E. by N. When you bring
the lighthouse to bear N. \ E. in about 4 fathoms water, stctr immediately for it, w liich
Will be a little open to the eastward of a Pole Beacon, with a cask on the top, painted
black. A continuation of this course will carry you dear of the Fingers, when you will
isee a buoy ahead, or a little on the larboard bow, whi^di you will jiass, leaving it on the
larbaard hand; as soon as you leave the buoy, steer N. W. or keep the breakers close
on board the larboard side, when you will luff or bear away, as the water may deepen or
become more shoal, to be ascertained by heaving the lead. This will carry you clear of
il long sand shoal, that makes off the point of Bald Head, which is dangerous to ground
iipon, as the flood tide sets directly over, and l)rcaks upon it with the w ind from the S.
W. In approaching Bald Head, caution is necessary, as the shoals on both sides are
Very steep, frequently from 6 to 3 fathoms at one cast of the lead. Keep close to this
Ishoal by sounding as above directed, until you reach Oak Island, when you may steer
direct for Smithville. Outside of the bar, in 5 or C fathon;s water, the lighthouse bear-
^ig Ni there is good anchorage in soft bottom. TJicve is on the bar, at low water, 10
feet, and ai high water 14^ feet : and the sea is scarcely ever so rough as to prevent a pi-
lot's boarding ^ vessel at the buoy.
OAK ISLAND CHANNEL. — Vessels drawing not more than 9 feet water, running
into Wilmingtcn through Oak Island Channel, may bring the easternmost part of the
lump of trees ov the oast end of Oak Island to bear N. E. by E. and run foi it, which
will carry them over in the best of the water, 7i feet at low water, and 11 feet at high
Water;. as soon as you deepen your water over the bar, steer for the end of the sandy
point of Oak Island, till close up with it, then steer E. S. E. for opening Cape Creek,
till you deepen into 4 fathoms, then haul up N. orN. N. W. along the beach, till you get
up with Fort Johnson, where you may anchor.
* The lighthouse on Federal Point, bears N. E. )iy N. from Bald Head Light, distant about 8}
kniles. It is elevated 48 feet above the level of the sea, painted white, and stands on the main h-nd,
horth side of the entrance of Cape Fear River, where formerly stood a beacon. The bar bears from
the light E. S. E., distant one mile.
The lighthouse on Federal Point was destroyed by fire in April, 1836 ; it will, without doubt, be
t^built on the same site ; the direcdons are therefore left as above. January, 1837.
sm*"
[ ' (liilrilifiyi'ii I
asszssi:^
IBLUNT S AMI:RIC.\N COAST PILOT.
237
cr channel, where
Ou this bar tlierc
BAR. — In run-
. yoii will iriaKe a
ore you inake tlie
iiouse and bind' at
ut 15 miles, from
(1, has the appear-
s gradually shoal,
ring W. S. W. to
rracks, which yoii
ach, until you are
) feet only. Tlie
t it is not advisa-
ng down from the
^ the Cape (which
When you bring
itely for it, which
n the top, painted
ers, when you will
leaving it on the
le breakers close
er may deepen or
^arry you clear of
gerous to ground
wind from the S.
on both sides are
veep close to this
-•n you may steer
lighthouse bear-
, at low water, 10
IS to prevent a pi-
:et water, running
most part of the
run for it, which
id 11 feet at high
end of the sandy
ling Cape Creek,
aeach, till you get
:ht, distant about PJ
s on the main Irnd,
The bar bears from
!. without doubt, be
637.
BATES OF PILOTAGE for Cujk F,ar Bars and River.
J}.\KS
For vessels drawir
g 6 feet,
7 ...
and under 7
rt
Open hoal.
feet, !?5 60
6 25
7 25
8 37
10 00
12 00
13 33
14 27
15 33
i6 53
17 73
21 80
23 10
25 5
26 70
28 60 .
32 70
39 20
42 00
44 80
43 65
52 50
Decked
^8 58
9 37
8 ...
9 ...
. . 9
lU
10 87
12 55
10 ...
11
15 00
11 ...
12
18 00
12 ...
12V
19 99
12i ...
i;]"
21 40
13" ...
13.1 ...
14" ...
141 ...
^n
14
141
15"
22 99
24 89
26 59
32 70
15" ...
151: ...
15L
16"
34 66
37 57
16" ...
161 ...
17" ...
16.V
17'
17'-
17i ...
. 18"
ih| ...
..... 18'-
3 . . .
18^- . . .
19'
19' ...
191 ...
•• m
20
That 30 per cent, upon the present established rates of pilotage, as above, be allowed
to decked boats, piloting vessels into this port and out to sea, (which is comprised in tho
last column.)
For the RIVER, from Fori Johnson to Wilmington.
For vessels drawing
6 feet,
7
and
under 7
8
feet, .
$ 7 00
8 00
8 .. ..
..... 9
9 00
9 ... .
10
10 00
10 ....
lOi
11 00
10,V
r
12 00
••
n" ...
^~ i • * • •
12
.... i i. _,-
12
...>.. 12i
13 00
15 00
....... 16 00
loi
13
18 00
2 • • • •
13
13i
20 00
13L
■^"2
14
... 22 00
14 ....
141
....... 24 60
14.V ....
a
15
...i?.. 26 00
■ ,{
From Fort Johnson to Brunswick, or from Brunswick to Wilmington, or vice rfi^i
one half the pilotage from Fort Johnson to Wilmington.
From Fort Johnson to Five i- athon)s Hole, from Five Fathoms Hole to Brunswick,'
from Brunswick to Campbell's Island, and from Campbell's Island to Wilmington, or
vice versa, one fourth of the pilotage from Fort Johnson to Wilmington*
GEORGETOWN.— Georgetown entrance is 18 lefagues S. W. \ W. from Cape Fear ;
between lies a bank, on which there are 5 fathoni» water. The north end of this bank
lies about 5^ leagues S. W. by W. from Cape Fear; it thence extends S. W. A S. 3^
leagues. The inner or N. W. side of this bank is abotlt 4 leagues from the shore; near
to this edge there are 10, 9» and 8 fathoms water: it shoals gradually as you advance to-
ward the shore ; this is called Long Bay. Near to the north end of this bank, there are
10 fathoms; along its S. E. side there are 8, 7, and 6 fathoms: to the southward of this
bank there are several shoals.
In sailing to Little River Inlet, which divides. North from South Carolina, you pass
Lockwood's Folly Inlet, which lies west from Cape Fear Light 3| leagues distant. Thie
land appears broken, and contains no safe harbor.
In continuing your course towards Georgetown, several other inlets may be discovereii
in clear weather, and at length you pass North Inlet, about 3 leagues from Georgeto'«rft .
Lighthouse : this inlet is the northern boundary of Nr.rth lBlar<], on which itlaod th»
m
\
V
238
III, I NT's A:MERir\>- COAHT PILOT.
fe
lighthouse is .litiialod. 'r}ie L'titianor into tliis inlet is from th(> nortliwnnl, tlic snntli
brenker t'onninjr noiirly ;i crt'scciit, nuis iippiu'eiillv ;i( loss the iiioiitii oCtlie irilt't : tiifif!
is generally not less tiiiin six fei^l water on the har at low water, but the de[)tli varies with
the tlireetiuii and vii)lcii('<> ot" the iirevailini; winds. 'J'he direction o(" this eliannel has
been within a few years consideraMy, thou.;li yradually, chan'j;e(l hy the elongation and
curve of tlie south breaker, throwinu the cli uinel more to the northward. In entering
It m Its present situation, (^'or^etown li/hilioiise will bear about S. by W. distant three
, leagues : a small, but distinrt sand liili, (lln- must nortln'rn on the north end of tlit; North
Island) S. W. i S. the most southern buibliu'j; on the south end of the opposite islands
W. by S.; you may theii run iii between the heads of the two breakers, rounding along
the edge of the south breaker, and thus iiassiii'j; between the breakers into the harlior.
The flood tide comes in from the S. E. and sets across the south breaker towards the
north breaker. On the iu)rth em! of North Island, about 3 lea,!T;ue3 froiTi the light, there
is a village of about "JO or .'50 dweUijig houses, (a sunuuer residence) which is distinctly
seen from sea, and often mistaken lor Sullivan's Island near Charleston; there are seve-
ral houses on the north point of the opposite island. To small vessels, this inlet affords
a safe harbor; there are two i)assa^es leadinj; from it up to Georgetown, but from the
shoalness of the water, they cannot be couvenicMitly navigated, excejit by boats ; in ease
of necessity, however, vessels of (j or 7 feet drau<,'lit may be navigated with some delay
through the most southern, which is the deepest passage into tlie \iny, or river, leading
to the town. . -
GEORGETOWN. HARBOR.— Coo^etown Lighthouse is a lofty circular, white
tower, ana olack lantern, erected on Nortli Island, which is on the northern and eastern
Slices of the harboi, at the entrance of Winyaw Bay (yi a low sandy spot, and exhibl^s a
fixed light, 90 feet above the level of the sea at higl;
.water, bearing N.
i W. from tiie
entrance of the bar, 6 miles distant. From tlie casternr^st i)art of Gape Roman Shoals,
Ho the entrance of the bar, the course is Ni ^. E. and the'j^istance ISmilcs, and from the
'southernmost part of Cape Roman Shoal, it bears N- by E. i'E. 20 miles distant. On
the out Cape Shoal are 5 feet at low water, antl 9 fo^t awiigh water, and a channel within
.at high water, -of 2| fathoms, from l.V to 2 miies wideband 5 fathoms outside, clost on
board the shoal. ' ' "' ' .
lu approaching Georgetown Bar from theiiorthwarel, the harbor is shut out from view
by North Island, and the lighthouse ap))ears to be siltuatet^ in a low wood.
In passing the light, either northerly or southerly, vessels "will fifld 5 fathoms water,
witllin 5 miles of the land: on this shoal there are^out,7V feet at loVf water, about 12
feel^at high water, and 5 fathoms all round it. The principal ejitrance into the harbor
lies to the southward of the lighthouse.
Thefe are several spar buoys placed in the best water on the bar, and in the channel,
in sailitag hy which, the following directions must be observed, viz. The first buoy ofi
the barlies directly in the channel, which; of course, may be passed on either side, close
to; from this to the second (channel) buoy, the course is about ?f. W. one mile distant,
and when up with it, immediately steer N. E. l.V mile tflsta^, which is also in the c)ian-
fifel^ ^ t^e third buoy, when you will irtupediately steer N. by W. for the lighthouse, 4
ihijillRlistaBt, keeping that course until Mtjliin 100 lath^r^pf the- light, leaving it on the
ebpil'board hand, when yoii will be in goqa 'anchorage. T'
|The" North Inlet channel into Geofjfltown,. cannot be recommfended, under any cir-
litimstances. ' .= *• '
Vfjssels at sea will find deep water, and when the whidls to the southward and west-
irard, convenient and safe anchorage near the land, about 1| or 2 miles to the northward
©f the lighthouse. A common flood tide rises nearly 4 feet; it is high water on the bar
ait the full and change of the moon, about 7 o'clock.
CAPE ROM AN.-5Cape Roman. IS vfrry low land; it has neither tree nor bush, and
appears, when seen at a distance, to be a sand left dry by the tide.
The Shoal off Cape R^oman runs off S. K. about 0 miles from the light; tlie outer
point has only 4 feet water, with a swash channel of 2.V fathoms, betweenthat and the
light; off the point of the Shoal, the-water shoals from"? to 5 fatlioms, then directly on
thie breakers, * n
Frona the south entrance of,. Sgntee River, to about 6 -miles S. E. of Cape Roman,
there isa shoal, which extends to a coti^iderable distance from the land; the S. E. point
#Jieii%baut 4 leagues S. from Georgetown Lighthouse, and the S. point lies about 2
""lies S.E. from Cape Roman. Close to this dangci.-us sand, there are four and three
jfjSls; tliie land is so low that yoii cannot see it from the deck of a ship, at the ex-
c^mity ^f the shoal.
"fcftOuter shoal of Cape Roman bears (as previously described,) froiri Georgetown
|.jf^!|?fae entrance of Santee River lies between the shoal and the lighthouse. The
if 2^ leagues from the entrance of Georgetown River, and 3 leagues from
liwani, tilt' snntli
r tliH inlet : tlit'io
(icptli viiiifs with
tliis cliiiiiiii.'l lins
e elon^^atioii ami
ird. Ill ciitiTiiii;
W. distant tlirot;
end of (lie Norlh
! opposite islands
, roundinjr along
into tho liaibor.
iker towards the
n the lij^ht, tlific
hich is distinctly
; there are seve-
this inlet afVonls
ivn, but iVoin the
)y boats ; in rase
with some delay
or river, leading
y circular white
hern and eastern
jt, and exhibl^s a
f. i W. from tiie
e Roman Shoals,
iles, and from the
lies distant. On
a channel within
outside, clos( on
ut out from view
id. •
|3 fathoms water,
water, about 12
into the harbor
in the channel,
le first buoy oyp
jither side, close
3ne mile distant,
Iso in the clian-
ie lighthouse, 4
eaving it on the
I, under any cir-
|ward and west-
the northward
fater on the bar
nor bush, and
^>'^
■.^.
m
'X'
0r /|
Ight; tlie outer
in. that and the
jhen directly on
Cape Roman,
Ithe S. E. point
lint, lies about 2
J four and three
Ihip, at the ex-
Georgetuwn
Ithousc. The
leagues from
e-^% ■'« -^r-Vi.. Cffi^^:-"" ^ ■ 'f -i f*; ^' '• '-"1 '.:''(C^:
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ii7
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ii.>*;vrn.
< ; •1)1 men r/.,;- «/• ti(fii,f fx ioM /'eft.
'l'liiS'>iin<lliti/x iii-r ill /'i-rl
\-'\v TJic .S'oiiiiiiiiif/s III .'/if
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■ / • ///vv/Y..,' //ii riiriii//,iii of tiir
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ill.. .'' >.. *' ' .i " ' // .
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ftii.t
l.i
1H,L\TH AMKKICAN ('OAST PILOT.
239
C'npc Uomnn. Sliip« tliat I'lill in witli tin- slioals (iT (iromotown ciitrnncc, should not
coiiii' iiiio I*'-'*'* '1''"' • ''•iti'iiii-' Wilier; iiikI iiltliuiiuli tin- iiunliiiiirsH of tin; water is npt tu
rriulitt'ii Ntiiiiim'is, tlifif is no iiiil ilaii^i '. to lie upiiirliciKlfil. 'I'lii' liiiul liere is low, ami
aiiiMiius, wiifii viottt'd at a il laiicc, in liuiiiinoiUs, likf a riiiijui- of islands.
i'>v Hicurin;,' W. N. VV. lioiii llif S. W, |mit of Capr llomaii Shoal, you will soon «f e
»K;»(o()ii Kfv I/i;;lil, \vliicli lirs uliiiul W. Iiy S. I'roiii ( 'api' Roman: stter VV. 8, W. or
S. W. I'V VV'.iii alictiu ,') riiiliuius w.iicr. As ilnit- is a 'hual runs oH 'alioul 5 uiiles S. E.
by E. iVoiu till- M. 10. cikI ol IJiill's Islaml, you sliMild lake ciirc to avoid it in pasHing.
fjence IJay, or Hull's llaihor, lies tii'twefn Katoon Kfv.s and Hull's Island. Tliero are"
shoals lyuiu; oil" the west cud ol Jlacoon Kivs, and you should anchor near to Bull'*
Island, in (> lathonis water.
I'roni ilie shoal oil' the N. K. end ol' HiiU's Island lo (-'harleston Har, the course to go
clear ol' llu' Kaltlc Snake, is S. W. hy W. and liie distance 7 leagues. There are four
islands between Senes Hiiy and Charleston Har, viz. Bull's, Cooper's, Davies', and Lona*,
Island. Flats extend I'roni all the islands, aloiiy wliirh the sountlings are regular. 'WitJa ;
Charleston (Jhurches norihwanl ol' Sullivan's Island, you will be in 5} I'athoma water,on ■
the edge of the Kattle Snake; and when the ehurehes are open to the southward of
Sullivan's Island, you are clear of that shoal. Yaa should approach no nearer to this
bank than .'j fathoms water.
(iKOUCiKTOVVN, (S. C.) TO CHABLKSTON, (S. C.)— From Georgetown Bar,
outside of Koinan Shoal, steer S. by W., distaneu 15 mdes. — From thence to Chatlea* .
ton Bar, S. \V. by \V., distance .f) miles: If, after i)asHing Boman Shoal, yotl wish.tp,
go to Bull's Harbor, steer W. bv S. until you bring Bull's Islaud to bear "W, N. MLplf
N. VV^. by W. In steering for JJull's Island, you will pnss Bacoon Keys. Qi^0»t^^>&e'
Bull's ' larbor Bar, at low water, you will liave 2 fathoms. Keep tMe N. E. pa||f>of Boir* •
Island to bear W. N. \V. until you are within a cable's length of thfi shore#^where,yot»
will have 4, .J, and (> fithoms water; follow tlie shore around until you Qlten a Creclf^, , ^
where you may anchor in ;j fathoms, nuiddy bottom, safe from all winds. .'' "^l^:
CHARLKSTON, (S.C.)— The entrance of Charleston Bar lies in lat. 32° 40' N^ vl
In niiuung in for Charleston f lighthouse, wi ich may be seen sotne distaQce at 36a, yo,u k
will have gradual soundings. \\ hen you come near the bar, you may see tjie north and,
Jsoulh breakers, between which, is the entrance over the bar. In running over the baf^;
you bring the lighthouse to bear N. W. by W. and stand for il, and when yon makci thje
Beacon, bring it to bear about two handspike's length north of the light; this will<br]|^
you up with the South Breaker Buoy; give this buoy a berth to. the southward, of y<^*
of al)out a cable's length, and tin; middle buoy a berth to the northward of you, of ab^t
half that distance. Alter passing the latter, stand more to the northward of the Nbrth
Breaker Buoy, giving it a berth of half a cable's length to the northward of yo||>— iq
passing which, the Beacon should be nearly touching the north side of the hght.
may then stand up for Sullivan's Island. The Beacon on withthe light carries yo«
the North Breakers ; ciire should theriefore be taken to keep it open to the northi
In crossing the bar, care should be taken that the flood tide does not set yoi^iij
north breaker, till you come within half a mile of the lighthouse, when you tnail
in 3 fathoms water. Buoys are in general placed on the bar, in 12 feet wate; at I()I^Iti|de.
The buoys are black. , . ' '\
There is another ship channel to the southward of this, called LawfoVd*s ChavnJT,
where you will havt, froin 10 to 12 feet, according as the tide may be. In gping into twk
channel, the course is iS'. N. W. There is a buoy here also. This anchorage i* callcKi
Five-fathom Hole, but it has no more than 3^ fathoms. From^thence yatur bourse i^ ».
about N. by E. .'i,^ miles, in Q or rt fathoms water, which will carry you ^breast of G unit '
ming's Point; wfieu this point bears W.:half a mile distant, steer N. N. W. foi" the S^
* On Racoon Keys, near what is termod Cope Roman, a lighthouse is erected, showing a fixed
liglit, distinguished by red and bright lights. It is' elevated 87i feet from the river, at high water,
The intention c^f this light is to warn mariners of iheit approach to Cape Roman Shoals, which lu ■%
S. E. from it, 6 miles distant. The lighthouse is painted alternately white and black, beginning
with white at the base, and ending with black at the lantern. ' The pitch or southern point of Cap^
Roman bears S. E. from the lighthouse ; the Old Mill N. ^ "W. and the large^Racoon Key'W. by ^
t Charleston lighthouse is built on Lighthouse Island, and contains a revolving light, which majr..
be seen at the distance of 8 or 9 leagues. The time of darkness will be twice to that of light;
you approach it, the time of darkness will decrcnse^and that of light increase yntilyouget wit
three leagues, when the light will not wholly disappear, but (Jle gijBatest strength O^ the ligbtwj|
as 1 to '14 to the least. . ■^■W-'k '
t The south breaker has a buoy on the east end, in 12 feet water, and in the middle of thi»,$Jh«|g^ J
nel is a buoy with a small white flag upon it, in 10 feet wator,4t«wt<de-^n ei^tH' side of ^^^o^i^af
may go when running in. , ^ ' .
340
nUINT H AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
W. part of Siillivnii's hlritul ; jou will have fmin 7 to 1(» fatliomH water. Yon may
go wi'liiii aquartcr ola inili- oCSnllivan's Islam], as ii is hold. Voiir course iVomtlicnrii
to Charleston is ahoiit W. \ N. and tlio <listaiMM' \\ or ft iiiiliM. VVlitii you hriiiu; lloii;
Island to bear N.atuJ Fort JcduiHoii to bear S. by W. you are uj) witii the eastern end of
the Middle (iround, whicli you must not ijo tiearcr to tiian :t fathoms. \'ou iiiav tliiii
Bteer nearly VV. keeping in I or '> I'atlioriis water, whirh will carry you between the Marsji
or Shuto's Folly, and the Middle (iround. This channel is narrow, not heini; UKue than
a quarter of a mile bntad, as the llats lie oil' from Shutc's l''olly one (juarier of a mile.
Continue your west eour-^e till you conic up to the town, where you may anchor in 5 or
6 t'uthoms water. In running uj) from .Sullivan's Island, stand no nearer to the soiuliward
than till you come into ;{ fathoniH, for (car of the spit (a Middle (iround that lies olf to
the N. E. and K. from Fort .Tohnson's I'oint) as far usCumnung's Point, iM)r to the
northward nearer than ;t or 1 fathoms.
After sailing from Sullivan's Island, as before directed, you nuist, if bound through flic
S. W. channel, or by Fort Johnson'H Point, brinj; the point of land, on which the fort
is, to bear S. S. VV. and run directly for it, where you will have from 4 to (> fatlioms.
When abreast of this \nnut, direct your course about N. VV, by VV. in U or 7 fathoms,
about one mile, or till you bring a |)oinl of woodland to the northward of the town of
Cooper's River, to bear N. N. VV., when you may run N. VV. by N. about one mile, which
will carry you up to the town, and anchor as above directed.
Bttoys having been placed to mark out the chaniu-l of the North Bar of the port nf
Cl.irleston, S. C., the following directions must be (d)scrved in ruiniing for the same;
In standing into make the outer buoy, (|)ainted red,) off the bar, brinu; Kurt Moultrie,
on fheS> W. end of Sullivan'u Island, to bear N. W. by VV. until you are up wiih that
buoy on the edge of tlie bar. The middle buoy, (painted white) hears from the outer
buoy N. W. by W. In crossing the bar you uuist keep the middle buoy, which is tlio
lierond buoy, on with the S. W. corner of Fort Moultrie until yon are up with it ; tricu
haul up for the inner buoy, (painted black,) which bears W. byN. .^ N. from the middle
':^buoy, which lies on the inner edge of the bar; when up with the inner buoy, then steer
• W. by N. for the main ship channel.
There is a ridge between the outer and middle buoys that extends across the channel,
- with not more than about 7 feet water on it at low water ; at high water from 12 to Mtt et.
Between the middle and inner buoys there arc 11 feet of water, by keeping very near
the north chain of breakers.
'~You may see Charleston lighthouse, in clear weather, in 10 fathoms water. The winda
on the soundings govern the current. Var. 3° 45' E. 18'J-J. [05^-' See the Plate. J
RATES OF PILOTAGE, /or the Bar and Harbor of Charleston.
For € feet water, or under, $S 00
7
do
8
do
9
do
10
do
It
do
J2
do
m
do
13
do
do
do
do
do
. 9
.10
.11
,14
00
00
00
00
For 13^ feet water, , $23 00
25 00
2'J 00
31 00
35 00
42 00
50 00
60 00
14
do
141
do
15
do
151
do
16
do
16 V
do
17
do
t do ..16 00
do 19 00
do .^ 20 00
do 21 GO
•PORT ROYAL.— From 3 fathoms water. South of Charleston bar to North Eddisto
inlet, the course is S. W, by W. J W. and the distance 5 leagues ; this course will carry
\you clear of shoals which lie off Stono inlet, which lie further olf than any that are in your
way to Eddisto. Stono inlet is about two leagues from tlfe south channel of Charleston ;
between them lie two islands, viz. Morris Island, on which the lighthouse stands, and the
{•land called the Coffin Islatid. With the lighthouse open of the Coffin Island, you will
go clear of the Stono shoals, in 6 fathcms water; but if you shut the lighthouse in with
Coffin island, you will not have more than 5| fathoms off Stono shoals : you will pass
vslose to the breakers, and consequently be in danger: the breakers, unless the sea be
smooth, show where the shoal is. In Stono inlet there are 9 or 10 feet of water at low
^ater, but it was not much frequented until Charleston was blockaded in the year 1775.
■From Stono inlet to North Eddisto inlet, the course is W. S. W. and the distance 11
miles; between them the soundings are regular, and the shoalings, when you are coming
fi»m the offing towards the shore, aie very gradual ; the bar of North Eddisto, and the
sh<]«la which are contiguous to it, lie off about 4 or 5 miles from the land. Close the bar
* ^Fi^Boyal ia S leagues N. E. 4 E. from Tybee lighthouse, at the entrance of Savannah River,
I'bli'JIr barboi* BtiMcient to contain the largest fleet in the world.
Yon rji;iy
i(tin tlicnci)
briii;,' Hoj;
t*>rn I'liil (if
II III. IV tlll'll
I I he iMiiisli
; 111(11 1' (liiin
r (il a iiiilc.
I'luir in .') (ir
BSOIltllWiud
t lies (ilV t(»
nur to the
tliroiigli the
icli tile fort
U t'litlioins.
7 fiillioiris,
he town of
mile, which
tlie port of
hn siinic ;
It Mo nitric,
ip with that
II the outer
vhicli IS tiio
ith it ; ffKMi
; the middle
, then steer
he channel,
.2 to Mfiet.
ig very near
The winds
le I'hite.J
....$23 00
. . . . 25 00
2'J 00
31 00
35 00
42 00
50 00
. . . . 60 OU
irth Eddisto
le will cany
t are in your
Uliarleston ;
nds, and the
nd, you will
juse in with
OU will pass
3 the sea be
water at low
2 year 1775.
distance 11
I are coming
sto, and the
!lose the bar
innah River,
Br.UNT S AMRRICAN COAST PILOT.
241
1
:«nfJ nhoaU there arc 3 and I fathoms water: on (he bar, there are 0 and 10 feet at low wa-
ter S(»iiih Kddi'^to is 3 hM;;iies W. S. W. from North Kddisto. The shore of the ia-
laiid.n wlii(.-h lie between them may be approached with yuiir lead without danger. The
Hh()alinj.'s towards it are yradu.il.
If bcuiid to the s(Mitliw,(r(l or northward, and obliged tiiroitgh streHA of weather, to
make a harbor in .North Kddisto, yoii must, when within about 5 milen of the land,
open ;i tree (which resembles an umlirella,) with the Noiitli point of the harbor, and then
steer in N.
of r lie harb
yon in,i>
nil! ani'
W. wiihoiil any danger,
r. [The tide here isi very rapid.]
iKir in I) failioms water on the northern side
In the harbor, 4 miles west from anchorage,
. t good water.
When you arc coming from sea, for Port Royal Harbor, vou should get into the lati-
tude of .St. Michael's Mead, which is 3J ' () JN. then Htoer VV. for the liead, and when
you cniiie within 15 leagues of it, yon will have from 20 to 25 fathoms water. Continue
your west course until you make the land, which you will do, if the weather be clear, at
a distance off) leagues, in 12 fathoms water. The land herciiliouts is generally low, but
the trees are high. Port Royal entrance is known by a small grove of trees, which stand
on the west side of it, and tower above all tlit; other trees, like a high crowned hat; hence
this grove is called the Mat of Port Royal. Continue to steer as before, ki^eping your
lead going until you get into H fathoms water, when you will be about 3 leagues from
St. Michael's Mead. Vou may then steer a point to the southward of west, until you get
into 5 fathoms water; then steer more southerly, taking care not to bring St. Michnel'l
Head to the northward of N. W. by N. until you see the great north breaker, called
Cole's Care, close to which there arc 4 fathoms water: tbio shoal must be left on tht
starboard side. As you approac h this breaker from the northward, you will see ftQdthsr
breaker to the southward, called Martin's Industry ; between these two breaker* lies the
entrance of the channel into Port Royal 1 larbor, which is about a mile lyide. ^h« maril
to go clear the north breaker is a parcel of high trees, which stand near theoiouth of tlM.
River May, and appear like an island. ke()t just open of £li/,abeth Point, your count
through between the two shoals, is VV. tI iN. or W. by N. In this channel there are no|
less tlian 3', or 4 fathoms, at low water. Continue to steer as aforesaid between the tWQ
breakers, until you bring Philip's Point to bear N. N. W. then steer directly for it, an<)
J'ou will have as you proceed,!), H, and 7 fathoms water. When you arc abreast of Philipa'
*oint, give it a small berth, and steer up N. by W. ^ W., in 6 and 5 fathonu; in the
latier depth you may anchor, very safe harbor. '
There is also a channel be'ween Martin's Industry and GgskinBank, callcdVi*' Swu^'.
Channel, in which there are not less than 12 feet at low water. Iq order to go in tlirdl^K'
this channel, you must, when in 7 fathoms water, bring Hilton's Head to bear N. W. bjifW.
and then steer, with an ebb tide, N. W. and with a flood tide N. W. by N. until Pl'MP'l
Point bears N. by W. i W. You may then steer for the Point, and proceed as l^rort
directed.
About 3J- miles S. E. from Hilton's Head, and 4 miles S. by E. from Philips' Point,
lies the east end of the Joiner's Hank ; it thence extends W. N. W. about 24 milcfv Imd
has 3'; fathoms on it at low water. Hilton's Head is on the south side of the qarboir, ^4
is a higher bluff point of land tljan any thereabouts.
Tybee Inlet lies 5 leagues S. VV. | W. from the entrance of Port Royal ioath ebm^l;
between them is Hilton's Head Island ; it is large, fertile and well inhabited Frofn f|^s
island the Gaskin Bank extends about B miles on the broadesf part. Tt'itv^ ti-ay pr^^iiiMd*^^
along this bank, in 5 fathoms water. Some, when bound to Port JRoyal^ reckon itl^t
to make the land about Tybee, because the lighthouse makes that part of the coast ^-
tin-^uishable from any other part. Tybee Inlet is the entrance of Savannah River.
Ships which draw 14 or 15 feet water, may go in at Tybee, and proceed through land to
Beaufort, in Port Royal Islands, and from Beautort, vessels of 8 or 9 feet water, may go
through land to Charleston. From Charleston, vessels draAKJng 7 or 8 feel water may go
through land to the River Medway, in Georgin, which lies 30 miles south of Savanna))'.
'On this coast it is observed, that N. E. easterly, and S. E. winds cause higher tides
than other winds, and also, somewhat alter their course. At Port Royal entrance the
tide flows on the change and full days of the moon, | past 8 o'clock. About 6 leagues
from the land, in 12 fathoms water, the flood sets strongly to the southward, and the eb||
to the northward, further off from the shore there is no tide at all. Near to the entranH
of the harbor there is a strong indraught during the flood tide, and an outset with an ellb
tide.
SOUTH CAROLINA.— When the wind blows hard, in the N. E. quarter, with|«t
rain, it commonly continues to blow violent for some time, perhaps 3 or 4 days; btff if
such winds ?re attended with rain, they generally shift to the E., E. S. E. and S. E..
S. E. winds blow right in on the coasf, but they seldom blow dry, or continue loi
31
'.5
.ff^
r ■'■
m
242
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
6, 8, or 10 hoars after their rotnmencemenf, the sky begins to iooi< dirty, which soon pro-
duces rain. When it comes to blow and rain very liard you may be sure that the wind
willfly round to the N. W. quarter, and blow very hard for 20 or :j() hours, with a clear sky.
N. W. winds are always attended with clear weather. They sometimes blow very hard,
but seldom do so longer than 30 hours.
Gales on the, coast of South Carolina frequently increase much in violence toward their
conclusion, and then break oflat once, leaving a cross sea, with almost no wind.
The most lasting winds are those which blow from the S. S. W. and W. N. W. and from
the N. to the E. N. E. When the wind is in any of these quarters, the weather is the
most settled.
Thunder guats are very common on this coast in the summer time ; they always come
from the N. W. quarter, and are sometimes so heavy that no canvas can withstand their
fury; they come on so suddenly, that the greatest precautions are necessary to guard
against the effects of their violence.
ST. HELENA SOUNP.— The entrance of this Sound lies between South Eddisto
Iola;id and the northernmost H^inting Island ; it is about 2 leagues wide. This place is
navigable by vessels of 7 or 3 f^et water only; it is full of sand banks, many of which are dry
at low water. Six rivers empty themselves into this Sound, viz. South Eddisto, Ashappo,
Cumbahaw, Chehaw, True Blue and Corsaw. These rivers are all navigable : some of
them come 200 miles down the country, but few of them can be navigated by vessels of
6 feet water, for more than 30 or 40 miles from the Sound. From the entrance of St.
Helena Sound, along the Hunting Islands, to the entrance of Port Royal, the course is
S. W. ^ S. and tho distance about 6^ leagues. Tlie soundings are regular: you will
htive 5 or 6 fathoms water.
CHA'ELESTON- BAR TO "TYBEE.— Wlien over the bar, in 8 fathoms water, the
cours^i is'S. W. diistance 20 leagues. As you come near the latitude of Port Royal en-
trance, whiejj is32° 8' N. be careful to avoid a ^ery dangerous shoal called Martin's In-
dustry ; it lits 4 leagues from the S side of the eutranreljl' Port Royal, which is the north
ride of Hilton Head, the highest land in si;.5ht : come no nearer than 7 fathoms, keeping
your lead gcittg; and in the night or thick weather, do not approach nearer than 10 la-
tVioms ; the tide rif flood sets- boldly in. Shoal ground, with 6 or 7 fathoms, coarse shells,
5ie!8 S. E., 14 or 15 miles from Tybee light. When you get to the southwa.id of Hiltou
-Head, you will see the lighthouse, which stands on the island of * Tybee.
If in the night, and you are to the northward of Tybee, be careful of going nearer the
Gaskin Bank ti ar 5 fathoms. In fresh winds you take a pilot abreast of the lighthouse —
ji^ moderate weather without the bar. In clear weather you may see the lighthouse at
j^ distance of 12 miles. -t; •
^^gtthe Ge\skin Bank and Martin's InduGtry, the flood runs strong into Port Royal, to
V7TOh may be attributed tho loss of so many vessels on these banks.
Ow Tybee there are two large coppered buoys, one on the tail of the knoll, in 2 fathoms
water; bearing from the lighthouse N. N. W., the other in 4^, bearing N. E..byN. from
ihe lighthouse, in mid-channel, where large vessels may anchor with safety, when wind
and ^j^ will not permit to proceed higher up.
A .CoBCon is erected on Tybee Island, which is hghted, and bears E. | S. from the
lis}Mlw>^se, 600 yards distant. It is 1()| feet high.
,Thfe Beacon light on with Tybee light, is the direct course over the bar. The best an-
cboring ground is with. Tybee light bearing from S. S. W. to S. the former ' be pre-
ferred, and distant about OD|e cable's length from the"beach. On the bar is a ojoy with
a white top, in 4^ fathoms water, distant 4iwiiies from the lighthouse. The deepest wa^
teris between the buoy and the south brelfker head.
On Savannah Bar there are 18 or 19 feet at low water. On the south breaker there
aif* not more thaii 7 or 8 feet water; and l|mile from the light, it is bare at low tide. —
4%ti the north breaker there is not less than 12 feet for the distance of a mile. The head
of Stone Hjrse Shoa^pmmences at the North Breaker, and extends from the land about
6 or 7 miles. [The mi^ Pocahontas, Capt. Walford, was totally lost on this shoal, the
■ 27th Sept. 1829, at flood tide; Tybee light then bearing about N. N. E. distant about 8
miles, viery bold near the shore.]
After getting into 4 fathoms water, *ou will be over the bar, when you must haul up
^, N. W. until the lighthouse bears S. S. W. then anchor.
' The. point of shoal which runs down from Cockspur Island, and separates that chan-
"*r '^y''®® Island lies at the mouth of Savannah River, to the southward of the bar. It is very plea.
..•anL with a beautiful creek to the west of it, where a ship of any burthen may lie in safety at anchor.
.,A ]^pdftou»<f fiuinds on the island, 80 feet high, containing a fixed light, is 14 miles E. S. E. ^ E.
"j|Sl^^r!nRngh,And 6 leaguas S, W. 4 W. from Port Royal. Warsaw Sound is formed Ly the
vhich soon pro-
■1 that the wind
,vith a clear sky.
blow very hard,
nee toward tVieir
no wind.
Js. W. and from
e weather i.s the
hey always camf
n withstand their
;cessary to guard
n South Eddisto
B. This place is
yofwhicharedry
iddisto, Ashappo,
ivigable ; some of
ated by vessels of
18 entrance of St.
jyal, the course is
you will
regular
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
243
athoms water, the
of Port Royal en-
called iVlartin's In-
which is the north
7 fathoms, keeping
nearer than 10 fa-
loms, coarse shells,
piithwajd of HiUou
ybee.
f going nearer the
f the lighthouse—
the lighthouse at
into Port Royal, to
knoll, in 2 fathoms
N. E^by N. from
'safety, when wind
E. ^ S. from the
bar. The best an-
former • be pre-
bar is a uaoy with
The deepest wa^
pnih. breaker there
bare at low tide.— .
a mile. The head
from the land about
(t on this shoal, the
E. distant about 8
you must haul up
sparates that chan-
bnr. Itisveryplen-
lie in safety at anchor.
, miles E. S. E. i E.
Ind is formed ly t'le
^; •
/ J
I--
nel from the ship channel, bears N. ^ W. from the light, ,md has not more than 5 feet oa
i< at low tide. When to tbe northward of this point, the light bearing S. S. E. you may
anchor in 4 or 5 fathoms.
\''essels drawing not ni')re than 8 or ') feet may keep the light or island side on board,
and riui into (/'ockspur and anchor, as they cannot pass the upper end of the island until
half flood, there being only 7 or 8 feet at low tide.
There are three bars, having from two to three fathoms on the back of Tybee and Cab<
bage islands; but thev aio never to be attempted but in absolute necessity.
NoTK. — Sailing into Savannah you will observe the following marks and buoys, viz. a
large Iniov lies on the outer edge of the bar in the deepest water, having all the leading
mirks on the beacon and lighthouse in one, 1 ling W. | N. distant 4 miles. Another
buoy lies in the same direction, one mile wi' ,i the bar; a third buoy lies one mile far-
ther W. I)y N. from the second, a fourth bu -y lies N. W. by W. frop^ the third ; after
pissing which, there is safe anchorage for a large fleet, in 4 or 5 fathouis, at low wateri,^
the lighthouse bearing 8. S. W.
The buoys lie and lead in the deepest water, having a channel half a mile to the uorth-
ward, and one quarter of a mile to the southward of them, (the narrowest place) nearly the
same depth of water ; and there are -20 feet on the bar at lowest tides ; you may sail either
side of tile buoys. [See the Plate.]
Tybee Creek has 11 feet through it, at low water. Forty miles south of Savannah lie|/
Sunbuiy, a port of entry, at the head of St. Catharine's Sound, betweer. Medway <l^
Newjjort Rivers, about 16 miles south of Ogechee River. There is a bar heref^bm uii
harbor is capacious and safe, and has water sufficient for ships of great burthen. .
Warsaw has 10 feet on the bar, but it is too intiicate for strangers. " '
HOaUHKEHKE RIVER.— Hosaba Bar, at the mouth of the rivet Jiogoheehee, hat
18 feet water on it, to cross which, bring Green Island to bear N. W. by W. steer in W#
by N. till you deepen your wiv,ter, fk<;n haul up N. W. by N. and you will soon get in 8
9 fathoms, when your eye and lead will be your best directions; at the extremity of
clianuel you will keep Hosaba^Miearest on board, until nearly up with the lower part
Buz/.ard Island, when the channel will be close under the starboard shore.
Green Island is much higher land, has taller timber than the surrounding forests, c
taining several hundred acres, covered with pine, which generally has a greenish appi
ance.
ST. CATHARINE'S BAR, which is difficult for strangers, lies one mile south ^^t^W
north point of the island, has but 8', feet at lotv tide; channel not more than SOOj
wide, the shoals generally dry each side of the bar. It is better for vessels bound tq^ll,«W'
port, Sunbury, or up th?se streams, to enter at Sapelo or Hosaba, and go the inla^.^ltaB>-
age, which ic not difficult. '
DARIEN.— Doboy Bar lies in lat. .31° 21' N. long. 81° 16' W. Vessels maKln| the
land, when in 5 or 6 fathoms water, will, during clear weather, see the Beacons on Wolf.
Island, which must be brought to bear W. | S. and run this course till the buoy on the outer
edge olithe bar is made, which may be passed on either side. Gontinue.JthJf W. i S
course till near the inner buoy, opposite the north breaker, by which you will ^88 the 8
feet Knoll on your starboard hand. In passing them, the north breaker is to kept on thft- ^
starboard, and the buoy on the larboard hand, taking care at the same titQe th9t the ^^
flood tide does not set the vessel on the north breaker. In running this course, t'&e bar
is crossed with not less than 12 feet at low water. When abreast of the inner bttifj^, rati
from it 1 ^ mile in a direction exactly N. W. by W. where the anchorage is excieUei]yt', ia ji ii
fathoms, at low water, which will bring tl|e vessel in the vicinity of the lighthoiifie. ,^.r
Or you may, after making the light on *Sapelo Island, and steering directly for theiBeit*
>
* The lighthouse is erected on the south point of Sapelo Island. The lantern is elevated 74^eet
above the level of the sea, and contains a revolving light, which revolves once in every five mimttsa^
during wliich period the greatest power of light and a total darkness will be produced throe tftMa
each alternately at any distance between 10 miles and 8 leagues : when you approach the ^gk%
widiin 3 'eagues, it will not totally disappear, but the greatest strength of liahtis to thatofths leaaft ail
40tol. ,, , ^ ," '
To distinguish this lighthouse from any other on th**Yieighboring coasts in the day, tllWijM||nr i*
painted with stripes horizontally, red and white, which gives it the appearance of a sblj^'inpjthe.'
sails clewed up. ■ "■
Two beacons having been erected on the east side, and nearly on the north end o(WoifJj
a S. S. E. direction of the lighthouse on the south point of Supelo Island, and botb^h*
tern each, witii six lamps and reflectors : four of the lamps in each beacon forms a CB<^
to S. W., having a nine inch convex polished lens, placed before thdm ; from whieilst||1
ever a vessel from out the bar brings the two lights any where near in a range, th« l%hi
u different appearance to what they will have when either to the northward or*outhwa*j
To designate those beacons from any other on the ney;hboring coM^ the tower of
m
.'-^si
^ 244 BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
.'I cons on "Wolf Island, bringing them in a line, and keeping the lead constantly going, the
lighthouse bearing W. i N. (true course,) cross the bar in 13 feet water. Neap tide
ebbs 7 feet.
The following are the depths of water, bearings, and distances to the two buoys, placed
in Doboy Inlet, leading to Darien, Georgia.—
Buoy Noi 1, sunk in 18 feet water, at low water, on the outer edge of the bar, bearing
E. 1 N. from the beacon on Wolf Island, 3^' miles distant, and 4} miles from the south
point of Sapleo, in an E. S. E. direction.
Buoy No. 2, sunk in 21 feet water at low water, off the north breaker head, bearing
E. I Ni from the beacon aforesaid, about 2^ miles, and in a S. E. by E. direction, 3.t miles
frdm the south point of Sapelo. This buoy is S. E. by E. ^ E. 5^ miles from Doboy Is-
land, and from the most southern part of the north breaker, one third of a mile W. by
TYBEE TO ST. SIMONS.— Bring Tybee lighthouse to bear N. W. when in 10
athoms water, and steer S. W. by S. distance 21 leagues, to go clear of the shoal of *St.
Simons, which lies off St. Simons E. S. E. 2 leagues. There are 4 and 5 fathoms close
to" this shoal, to avoid which come no nearer than 8 or 9 fathoms. The island of St. Si-
iJDOns is on the north sids of the sound or harbor of the same name, which lies in lat. 31°
7' N- and may be known by four trees standing thus t I t t- O" ^h^ south side of that
harbor lies Jekyl Island, on which are remarkable trees, appearing like umbi-ellas, and
^eoce called the umbrella trees. St. Simons and Jekyl Island beaches are remarkably
white- The bar at the entrance of St. Simojis' Sound lies 5 miles from the light.
ST. SIMpNS.— Bring the lighthoiise to bear N. W. by W., and steer for it until
iaibreast of it, which course will carry you over the centre of the bar, which is about 5
iotiles distant from the lighthouse.
ST. MARY'S AND AMELIA BAR.— Vessels fr&»44U6, ftftBthward, after passing
Jekyl Island, which lies in latitude 31°, ought to keep in 7, 6, or 5 fathoms water,
"* weather and size of the vessel nay permit. As you proceed towards the southern
t of fCumberland, you will op^n Dungeness House, which is about If nile distant
!om the south point of said island, and is the only conspicuous large building on this
last, and is hid by the trees when you are to the northward. Southward of this house
re is a space of about two miles, with no'trees on it, which makes the south point of
island appear, at a distance, like an island of about two miles in length.
ere are placed on Amelia Island, two beacons for crossing what is termed the Old
lel: they must be brought in one, when they will face W. | N., and a buoy on the
of the bar will be in range. There are G:^ feet water at low water; tide rises 6
igh Water about 8 o'clock, full and change of the moon. In crossing the bar,
pe beacons in one until up with the buoy ; then steer for the north point of
,. |Islaad> giving the shore a good berth ; when between the points of Amelia and
CttQlb^lpand, there is good anchorage near to Cumberland. This bar lies 2} miles north
of the aiirain b^r, where there are 12^ feet at low water, and a buoy on the inside of the
llorth B^akej Head. The course over that bar is \V. N. "W., leaving the buoy on the
8tarb(MH^ hfflra ; but strangers should bring the buoy to bear N. W. by W., when they
may rtoi' with safety, allowing for the tide and the draft of water of the vessel. After
passi^tbe buoy, steer N. W. by N. 2? miles, which will bring you to the upper buoy
for 0® C^att|WM this may be run for from one buoy to the other, and can be passed on
* vM,€ith^^«i^4, when the course will be as directions for Old Bar, before mentioned.
f Inc^bt^ng gouthwatdly for the bar, keep in 6 or 7 fathoms water, until the lighthouse
^ JjearsN. W. | W., then steer for it ; when on the bar there will be 12 feet at low waler;
%ithixt thte bar, where 9 buoy is placed, 3 fathoms. Leaving the buoy on yovtr starboard
hat«i, steer N. W.> by N. 3 miles, which will bring you on the tail of the Middle Ground,
lyia^ on the larboard hand, keeping in 3 fathoms water. \Vhen the south yoint of Cum-
bqi^and bears N. £^. distapt half a mile, there is good anchorage.
or%igheBt beacon is painted white. The lantern i« elevated 25 feet above the surface of the earth.
-T^ eastern or lower bdacoji is painted black, and the lantern is elevated above the surface of the
enilii 16 feet. »
'^'The height of the tower of St. Simons' Lighthouse, from its base to the foot of the lantern, is 75
fcet^ It is built of a composition of lime, which gives it the appearance of having been painted white ;
. io <^ the extreme south end of the island, and phowa a fixed light.
t'pn the,seuth point ofCumberland Islaad a lighthouse is erected. The light is elevated 80 feet
: ftbovChigh water, and is a revolving light, showing a clear bripht light toward the sea, twice in each
; -revolttpen, which is in three minutes, each time occupying a space of one and a half minute. Its
-.'Ibeftioili is not BO eligible as it would be on Amelia Island, where it would be a leading mark over
'''''^"'***'t<>dit now only serves as a mark for the inlet. It is distant 7 miles nearly a N. W. J W.
^fir9in die main bar^-conse';' ntly buoys and beacons are resorted to.
Full!
Average
ST. ]
St. Join
. bluff, at
small cri
departur
and sout
on the b
W. i \V
3 fee't to
then stee
haul up
the Midc
oppoisite
flat that
feet; nes
sometimf
past 7.
The S
more thai
fine navig
of Lake (
feet in de
Lake (
which is I
or three r
channel c
N. 9h. 45
NOTK.-
atcly after
but the pt
ST. Ai
or any pai
est and mc
St. Ati;
posite the
of Matanz
gustine in
distant 10
you are
length 15
house, sh(
The pil
but if not
steer. R;i
than 8 or '
times mak
bar, with
row and ci
and N. W
ST. AT
the north,
wind be to
from 7 to I
All vess
by signal, 1
'2.'
Th:
:bi
I of
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
245
ling, the
eap tide
i, placed
, bearing
he south
, bearing
, 3.T milea
)o6oy Is-
ile W. by
lien in 10
•alof *St.
oms close
of St. Si-
in lat. 31°
de of that
ellas, and
enmrkably
light.
for it until
is about 5
ter passing
)ins water,
ic southern
niie distant
ling on this
■ this house
ith point of
led the Old
buoy on the
tide lises 6
ing the bar,
rth point of
Amelia and
miles north
iiside of the
buoy on the
, when they
ssel. After
upper buoy
be passed on
)iied.
lighthouse
It low water;
m starboard
die Ground,
oint of Cum-
e of the earth,
surface of the
lantern, is 75
painted white ;
levnted 80 feet
twice in each
If minute. Its
ing mark over
uN. W. iW.
Full sea at St. Mary's Bar on full and change, at half past 7 o'clocU ; slack water at 8.
Average tides 7 feet.
ST. MARY'S TO *ST. JOHN'S.— The course is S. by E., distant 7 leagues to
St. .lolin's; in making this place when bound into St. Augustine, there is a round high
biutf, at the south side of the river, known by the name of the General's Mount : the
small craft running in from Amelia to .St. Augustine generally make it, and take their
departure. On the north side of the iiarbor is Talbot's Island, full of trees, lying north
and south, and about the same height with the General's Mount : there are 11 feet water
on the bar at high water. In running into St. John's, bring the lighthouse to bear S.
W. i W. and open the top of the chinmey in the west end of the dwelling house, about
3 feet to the S. and E. of the light ; then run in until within the South Breaker Head ;
then steer S. S. W. for the General's Mount within a cable's length of the shore; then
haul up to the westward, keeping the shore about the same distance from you to clear
the Middle or North Breakers, which show plain if there is any wind. When nearly
opposite the swash, incline towards the north shore, or Fort George Island, to clear a
flat that makes olf from the shore a considerable distance. Spring tides rise 12 or 13
feet; neap tides not more than 10 feet. The currents run out until quarter flood, and
sometimes half flood. High water at full and change of the moon, about 20 minutes
past 7. The tides are'very much influenced by the winds.
The St. John's is a long and broad bay, which receives the impressions of the tide at
more than 150 miles from its mouth, running parallel with the ocean. This bay affords
fine navigation ; you will find in all parts of it, after passing the bar, up to the entrance
of Lake George, 20 feet water : this lake, to its south-east extremity, is upwards of 10
feet in depth.
Lake George is a little sea, of nearly 60 miles in circumference, at the eitremity o^
which is found a bank of shells, on which you have only about 5 feet water; but at two
or three miles above this, the branches of the St. John's reunite, and a broad and deep
channel conducts you to a lake. At full and clrange it flows S. E. by S. and N. W. by
N. 9h. 45ni.
NoTK. — The brig Young Mari? struck several times on a sunken rock, and iminedi-
atcly after had 5 fathoms water, wliile njnning between St. Augustine and Amelia Island,
but the particular situation of the rock we are ignorant of.
ST. AUGUSTINE. — Should a vessel be obliged, in consequence of some accident,
or any particular reason, to stand in for a harbor,, the port of St. Augustine is the new-
est and most advantageous place. y^-
St. Augustine is situated on the main, about 2 miles within the bar. immediatel3r\0p#^^^
posite the inlet : it is not passable for vessels draw.ng over 16 feet of wat«r. The islann' "
of Matanzas runs parallel with the ocean, and forms a point of the south end of St. A§*
gustine inlet. When in 9 fathoms water, oil" the bar of St. John's, the course is S. S^,
distant 10 leagues. The northernmost land of the bay is called Point Cartel. Wfa'l|if*'s\
you are as far to the southward as this point, you will see the island of Ap^stasial^ itf' "
length 15 miles, and on the south side of the bay, on the north end of which la a iml^t-
house, showing a fixed light. * ' ,'^'.'' ' ■•
The pilots who attend the fbar, board vessels outside, when the weathei" wi)l ptriij^
but if not, th^y bring them in by signal, which imy wave as they wish the vessel %*
steer. Rate of pilotage two dollars per foot. The bar of St. .^ugustine has no iffot^
than 8 or 9 feet water on it at high water, spring tides, and at low water 5 fe^j #hich atf
times makes it impossible for boats to pass. Thore is a swash to the.jBbr&WHrili of tlje '
bar, with 11 and 12 feet water; but the sand shifting often, and the p&'ss^g^ fi^i|}£^90|!la|t«'
row and crooked, the pilois seldom attempt it. It flows, at full and change, 9< ' "
and N. W. by N. 9h. 45m. ; variation ojf St. Augustine 7° E., 1819.,
ST. AUGUSTINE JLIGHT.r-Vessels bound to this port, if running dowirl
the north, must not bring the lighr farther to the westward than S. W. by W. If
wind be to the south, bring the light to bear west ; if moderate, come to and anchor-^
from 7 to 9 fathoms water, muddy bottom, ofl^ which three buOys are placed. ^
All vessels bound to this port will show, when off the bar, how ^ttch water th»y tlrlw
by signal, hauling down the flag and hoisting it again equal to the numbifo^fee^ they dlilir.
. E* w S».
• The Lighthouse at St. .John's has been taken down,' to prevent it from falling.. ,Anew<>ne #ill
be put in a more favorable situation. ' • . ^^ ,
t An appropriation is made for placing three buoys on the bar, at the entrance of St. ^jiugt^nA
Harbor, and they are moored. ' ,..i-. r ''
t St. Augustine Lighthouse is built on the north-end of St. Anastasia Island, lati ■S^-'/
long. 81° 2.")' W., and shows a fixed light. It is a square tower built of shell stone, «^
white. The tower is 70 feet high from the ground, exclusive of the lantern, whicRls f ffe<te'"l|[K|
top of the building is arched, with a stone cornice and a granite stone (teek, 12 ieet dianwM^!
lantern is of iron, and contains six patent lamps.
.f-:./^
mmmeimm*'^''
246
blunt's ameuican coast pilot.
MUSQUITO INLET.— Sixty-five miles to the southwnnl of St. Aufriistine Light-
house, is Mus(|iiito Inlet. Oil the bar tlieie is ^y feet at low water. Rise of tide 3.'; feet.
' On the south side of the inlet there was a *lighthouse intended for a fixed light. The
town of Smyrna is within this inlet.
REMARKS OFF ST. ALMUSTTNE.— From the first of November to the last of
February, the hardest gales i)revail that blow on ihis coast, and in ji;eneral IVoiii N. N. E.
to S. S. E. The wind any way easterly comes on very suddenly to a <rale during the
season above mentioned ; and these fraie.s give but very little warniiii;;. An expe-
rienced navigator says, " I was at anchor in St. Augustine Bay, when it came on to
blow at E. N. E., and in fifteen minutes time 1 was obliged to slip, and had we not car-
ried sail to the utmost we should not have cleared the land to the southward." When
the wind backs against the sun, with a small rain, you will perceive the sea to rise belore
the wind comes; then prepare for a gale, which in general will last 50 or 60 hours. If
vou should be obliged to cut or slip, carry all the sail you possibly can, to get an offing
before it increases so as to put you past carrying any sail, which is always the case, and
. observe, that the flood tide setting to the southward will be of no service to you farther
out than 12 f\ithoms water, when you will be in the southern current until you get into
46 fathoms, which is ai?out 15 leagues from the land, and in the (xulf Stream, where the
current runs strong N. N. E. as far to the northward as latitude ,'35° 15' N., when it sets
more easterly, or about N. E. by N., as far as latitude 37^^ N. ; fiom thence, as far as
the Capes of Delaware, its direction is about E. N. E., and from latitude 38° 57' N. it
aets nearly east.
Directions for making a speedy passage through the Gulf to Neiv York. — When in sight
of Memory Rock, steer N. N. W. to lat. 25)°; then N. to hit. 30", (allowing, however,
for the effects of strong breezes any way, to clear dangers on both sides,) which will keep
you in the whole force of the stream ; then N. E. till in lat. of 3-2° ; then steer N. E. by
N. until you get into the latitude of Caj)( Ilatteras, which is in 35° 14' N. ; then you
Wiay haul up more northerly half a point, till you get on soundings in or near the latitude
of the Capes of Virginia. When in 18 or "20 fathoms, and near that latitude, steer N.
Ni. E. ''') leagues, and look out for the 1 1 'hlands of Neversink, which are 26'2 feet above
die level of the sea, and lie S. S. W. from the entrance of the harbor of New York. When
you have nearl)' made the distance before mentioned, be careful not to run in the night
Or thick weather;, come no nearer than 12 or 14 fathoms.
NoTK.— Along the southern coast of America you will find no tide farther out from
' ,th# shore, than 10 or 12 fathoms water; from that depth until the edge of soundings, you
rilihave a current setting to the southward, at the rate of one mile ))er hour : when out
^soundings, you will have the Gulf Stream setting to the N. E. quarter, and the farther
VX get to the northward, it sets more easterly, l)ut not so strong as before mentioned ;
sn you get to thfe northward of 39°, it sets about east.
The setting of the tide along the shore from New Yorlc to St. Augustine.
• ' Flood. Ebb.
Fr6ni the west end of Long Island to Cape May. . . . W. by S E. by N.
I^'rotia Cape Henlopen to Cape Charles S. by W N. by E.
From Cape Charles to Cape Hatteras S. S. W^ N. JS. E.
FrmQ €!«j^e Hatteras to Cape Lookout S. W. by W.. .N. E. by E.
From Gap© Lookout to Cape Fear S. W. by W. , . N. E. by E.
Prom Cape Fear to Cape Roman W. S. W E. N. E.
From Cape Roman to Charleston W. S. W E. N. E.
From Charleston to Tybee W. S. W E. N. E.
f rom Tybee to St. Simons' S. S. W N. N. E. ^
From St. Simons' to St. John's S. by W N. by E.
From St. John's to the Bay of St. Augustine South North.
GENERAL REMARKS.
From the Atlantic, when over the Bank, and bound for New-Orleans, you may shorten
S^X distance very much by running down the Florida Ree(, keeping in colored water
day-tirtie, and off into the Stream by night, as a strong eddy or counter current, sets
Wi^wardly along the outside of the reef, between it and the regularaet of the Gulf. To
do ^is with advantage, you must calculate to fall in with the Florida "coast as early in
the forenoon as possible, that you may take advantage of the eddy through the reniain-
tlef|of the day. Your best way, therefore, will be, on leaving the bank in lat. 24° 40'
lighthouse was never Ijhted : a few months after being built [by contract] it fell to the
It IB uticsrtaui when a naw Ughtbouse will be lighted to indicate the entrance to this inlet.
Ebb.
.by
N.
i>y
E.
.N.
E.
E.
by E.
.E.
by E.
N.
E.
. N.
E.
. N
E.
.N
E. ~
.by E.
orth.
n may shorten
CO
>ored water
!!• current, sets
the
Gulf. To
ast
as early in
L'h
the reiiiain-
in
lat. 24° 40'
BLUNTS AMERICAN COA.ST PILOT.
247
with a good breeze, to steer W. S. W. 2') leagues, iind it at day h!,'ht *Florida Reef is
not in sij;ht, steer west, W. by N. or W. N. \V. and make them at once; you will fall in
witli them between f Key Largo and Old Matacunil)e, which hr.s high trees on its north
end, the tops of whicli are ([uite level, and at first sight appear like table land ; keep down
in colored water by daylight, and at niglit haul out at a respectful distance, until fairly day-
light again, when you may haiditito the northward, and again make the land. Or, should
you be so tar to the westward as between the Marijues Keys and the jTortugas Light,
where you cannot see the land uidess within 4 leagues of the one or the other, you must
keep a lookout for colored water, and when fairly into into it, keep down to the west-
ward and make the §Tortugas, which you may pass at a respectful distance either to
windward or leeward, as best suits your fancy, and as the winds will admit of. Between
Sombrero Key and ||Sand Key Light, you may see the Heacon on Looe Key, which is
30 feet high, :>nd on which is a large ball painted red ; 4 or '> miles east of Looe Key is
a White Buoy on a Reef in 3\ feet of water, and between Looe Key aijd the west end
of Florida Reef, you may make t])e lighthouse on Sand Key.
Should the wind be far southerly or light, it would be most advisable, on leaving the
bank, to kee{) to the southward and get under Double-headed Shot Bank, and out of the
force of the stream ; and with light and westerly winds (which sometimes continue for
several days during the summer) it is usual to get on the Double-headed Shot Bank,
and lay on its western edge for a breeze, or cross over into St. Nicholas Channel, and
take advantage of the land breeze from the Island of Cuba, to get to the westward.
DESCRIPTION OF THE BAHAITIA BA]\KS, ISIiATVDiS),
Ai\D CHA.\I^ELS.
BAHAMAS. — TTnder this general denomination are included all those groups which
appear on the banks between the Matanilla Bank on the N. W. and Square Handkerchief
onlheS. E. The principal islands are situated on those remarkable flats called thj '
CfREAT and LITTLE BANKS OF BAHAMAS, which are divided by the channf
of Providence, and of so much importance did we considei' a correct description of r
navigation, being the passage for vessels from the ports of the United States to thosj
the Mexican Sea, as to induce the author, in 1820, to seqd the sloop Orbit, undef
direction of E. C. Ward, U. S. Navy, to make surveys.
The banks are generally of sand, with coral. The islands are low, flat and Inters^
with i)orous rocks, of fresh water, but the supply is, however, scanty, it being obta
only from pools, formed during the rains, or from wells dug in the sand, into
sea-water filters. In the woods are found the \\i\d hog and the Agouti. • '— .
Within the jurisdiction of the Bahamas are therefore included the Great BahftfilM
and Abaco Isles, New Providence, Andros, the Berry Isles, HEleuthera or EttHNra,
' \i »'' ■ »
* A lighthouse, showing a fixed light, elevated 70 feet above the level of d^e sea, 400 ya«|sfro)n
the beacfi, and about T miles from the Gulf Stream, is built on the south point of Key Bidci^TniQ^tCap^
Florida.] Vessels drawing 10 feet may approach it till within 2^ mSiM. R- is about? mihl from
(the Gulf Stream, lat. 25° 40' N., lo!l<,^ 80° 5' W., a httle south of Cape Florida. . ^
t On the reef ofF Key Largo is a floating light vessel, showing two fixed lights, one abotit 3j| feet
high, the other 40 feet, bearing from the highest land on Key Largo E. by S. 7 miles distant^ ''jrom
the elbow on Carysfort Reef N. J E., distant 3 or 4 miles ; the outer reef [say 14 fathoms water]
bearing east 2^ miles distant, lat. 25o 6' N., long. 80° 28' W. It may generally be seen 12 miles,
and its object is to M-arn vessels from the dangerous rocks and shoals near which she is moored.'^ In
hazy weather, a bell will be struck frequently, to warn vessels to keep off. -t^
t Tortugas Light. — Stationary, on one of the Dry Tortugas Islands, near the western ejrtPBii^ty
of the reef. - J
§ A spar buoy, painted white, in 15 or 18 feet water, showing 3 feet above the water, :^.{f|ai^ at
the west end of the ijuicksands, [Dry Tortugas,] 15 miles E. i S. from East Key, which is IJiCLAiost
easternmost key, and where there is a shoal of not more than 7 or 8 feet water, I
ll Sand key Light revolves once in 54 seconds. It is the best light on the coast, S. W. b]9B. 8^
miles from Key West Light, situated directly on the reef.- The light is 70 feet above the «!B^^
H Eleuthera or Ethera, to the northward of the Exuma Keys, is one of the largest ialai^llon Am
bank. It is, as shown on the chart, of very irregular shape, and being on the edge(^w€rEMMl'>
Bank, its eastern shore is washed by the blue and fathomless ocean, wlule«n t^'.^fett)J|pB.'»iri|li<<> -
f
)0.
248
IJLUiXT S AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
Guanahan, otherwise St. Sjilvador or ('at Island, Watland's Island, Exiima, *Yuma or
Long Islands, the Crooked Islands, Mayuana, tl.'e Caycos, the Inagues, and many smaller
groups.
Directions for sailing over Nassau Bar, during stormy weather, when a j)ilot hoal cannot
go out.
Vessels approachinji Nassau in tempestuous weather, when the pilot cannot cross the
bar, by observing the lollowing directions, may come safe over, when th« piloi will be
ready to receive and corfduct them to their anchorage.
On a white flag being hoisted on the point of Hog Island near the lighthouse, a small
white flag flying, will he in readiness within the bar, the vessel will then steer in, giving
the point of Hog Island ai)Out 80 fathoms distance, and keeping Toney's Rock (a small
rock within the bar on which a beacon is erected) and the west end of Fort Charlotte
barracks in one; keep this course until you bring the white flag on the point to bear
east; then put your helm to the starboard and keep for the boat. It sometimes hap-
pens that the sea '-reaks from ))cint to point, even in moderate weather. When this is
the case, and the w d should be to the south or east it would not be prudent for vessels
of a large draught it water to enter, as there are not more than 17 feet water at low tide
on the bar. By order of the Commissioners of Pilotage.
[We recommend to every navigator to make himself acquainted with the set of the
currents through the whole extent of the Gulf, and with the description of all the Islands
. and Keys which compose the Bahama Banks, as at times a knowledge of them may be
highly important.]
TCides and Currents between Watland's Island and New Providence.
The tides or currents between Watlmd's Island and the Hole-in-the-wall are generally
found to set to the S. W. About Egg Island they set in various directions. Oif
Douglass Rocks, New Providence, the tide runs very regular; and at the entrance of
the New Anchorage, it flows, on the full and change, at 8h. .'iOm. .The flood sets to the
N. E. and very strong between the rocks. The vertical rise of a spring tide is 4 feet.
In the passage between Egg Island and Nassau, the stream bas beenVound to set at the
ITRte of 4| knots ; the flood setting east, and running strongly o\'r the reefs. Near Egg
Island the current is very uncertain ; great attention should here be paid to the lead.
The stream sets strongly over the Egg Island Reef, when the wind is from N. W.
The flood sets very strongly between the rocks to N. W.
,^The tide about the Berry Is' tnds rises 2 feet higher when the sun advances to north-
prd of the line, than it does wiien it is to the southward. The flood sets strongly over
j'bank, and the ebb over the bar. In the N. W. Channel of Providence, the current
Pfrally runs to the eastward tv/o miles in an hour.
liiTTLE BAHAMtiV BANK, WITH ITS ISLANDS — The Hole-in-the-wall,
wliich is the souther-radst extreme of the Island of Abaco, bears N. N. W. from F^gg
Island, 7| leagues distant, and the two form the mouth of what is called the Northeast
Osannel of Providence ; and the Hole-in-the-wall, with Stirrup's Key, forms the eastern
HKtlUh of what is called the Northwest Channel of Providence ; and this N. W. Chan-
ndlta; Moiith is formed by the Great Isaac, and tiie western extvemity of the Island of
&ir^at or Grand Bahama. About one xnile west of ♦he N. E. point of Abaco, is a fiae
bayi ca"ed Hurricane Bay, with water enough for small vessels.
After poising the Hole-in-the-wall, the land is indented, both on its surface and beach,
atod Mnds nearly east and west, forming a slope, the highest land to the eastward. Two
inilej W.' by S. from it, lies the southernmost point of the Island of Abaco, and Little
Bahatna Bank.
From the south point of Great Abaco to Rock Point, the bearing and distance are
N. W. by W. 16 miles; the latitude^ the latter is exactly 26°; from Rock Point to
■ — t^ -, _ — t
ahdpow and smeoth water of the banji. •* The force of the Atlantic waves has pierced a magnifi.
^^ arch through the rock of the is^d, which is the greatest curioeity of the Archipelago. The
isi^d is moderately high, and the'^btet side is very foul, hatting a reel called the Alabaster Rocks,
an4other dangers."
IXfitbtrr ii^Kad is close to the north/Bhd of Eleutbera, and has a settlement on the south side of the
ialati|.
* T& current isles to the westward of Harbor Island, are Russell Island, Royallsland, and Egg
,1^8^ ;They are low, and between them end Ethera is a channel through which small vessels
-;l8Jiy PiP*«v On the north a bank extends about two miles out, with 9^, 11, 12, ami 13 fathoms on
1^ WiSi^gg Island, [the mOst western,] the anchorage off New Providence bears S. 30° W.
tnpi 7«ne« distant.
"'* fmmsr Long Itlaad Is fboat 17 leaguet in length, from S. E. to N. W.
>
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
249
t loal cannot
south side of the
Kpv Gorda, on which fresh water may \n> foiinfl, is N. W. by W. J AV. 10 miles. Along
the ed'i' of ti^.e bank, N. \V. rJN. Iroiii Key Gorda, in an extent cm 6 leagues, is a con-
tinued series of keys and reefs, and witiiin these on the bank is Moose Inland. In this
disiunce you wlM ii;ive a dangerous i- :ky shore, on tiiR west end of the bank. About
half w IV betweeii Moose Island and the S. K. end of (ireat IJahaina Islands, are Bur-
rows' Keys.
The Island of Abaco is divided into two parts by a small shoal channel, and when It
is seen to the ea.stward, it forms two pretty high lum;)S. There are connnodions an-
chora'cs on the western and southern edges, well sheltered from the sea, one of which
is (Ml the western patt of Abaco, which from the Holc-in-tlie-wall bears N. \V. and ter-
minates in a bay, 9 miles from the |)uint.
This bay, with winds at N. W., N. N. E., E., and even 8. E., affords a good shelter,
with a depth of 7,7, 8, and !) fathoms waier, and ; llhough the wind at S. E. is along
shore, it makes no sea, and it is excellent holding ground.
In the bottom of this bay is the channel which divides the island of Abaco into two
parts; auumber of houses art- .rected there by people from New Pr)vidence, who come
to cut wood. This anchorage is safer ill winter than in sunuiier, as during the latter you
have constant squalls from the southward, from which the lightning often does harm,
and earthquakes are frequent, which drive off the people, who retire to Provideuce and
Eleuthera.
From the west part of this bay, a chain of keys extends 120 miles W. by N., after
which you will see the east end of the island of Great Bahama, which continues 00
nearly the same direction for 19 leagues, and the whole of these two spaces of the bank
are foul, with reefs and rocks, as far as the middle of Great Bahama, from whence it ia
clean and has a smooth bottom.
On the S. E. side of GREAT BAHAMA ISLAND, which is wholly bordered with
a reef, forms a bight, which is 14 leagues in length, and very dangerous, with strong S. W,
winds. Within the S. E., or more properly tht south point, there is fresh water; and
at this point, in lat. 26° 28', long. 78° 40', is a narrow spot of good anchoring ground,
having 10 or 11 fathoms. Towards this coast there is generally an outset from the
Florida Stream on the west, which however varies according to the wind, &c., and qt
all times it is necessary to give the west end of (ireat Bahama a good berth, not only oQ
account of its shoals, for if '', wind should hang to the southward, you would be em*
bayed.
The western edge of LITTLE B.\HAMA BANK, are several keys and dangerou*
reefs. Off the N. W. point of Great Bahama Island, are the Wood and Indian Keys,
mtMh, at a league to the northward of which is Sandy Key, and at two leagu
r -^^=i==-^ to the N. by W. of Sandy Key is Memory Rock, which stands abo:^^
Memoir K^^N^rK ^'''''^ league within the edge of the bank, and appears wheo bearing;^,
ihiee miles.' N. E. as represented in themaigin. • •
From Memory Rock the edge of the bank trends to the N. W., and at 4 miles flro'm
the rock, is the south end of a reef which is even with the water's edge. This reef is
2 leagues in length, and is succeeded by several others, to the distance of three leagnes
more to tlie north. Between these and the Matanilla Reef, the ground appears tO/i||
clear, with soundings on the bank in the northern half, 18, 19, and 20 fathotps. *&,:■;
In the extreme western part of the Great Bahama there is excellent anghoi^gef, ^^
which the soundings of the bank run off 5 miles.
When there is a sea from the N. E. on the N. W. point of this bank, in (hat part of it
in 25° 30' and 40 fathoms, it makes at flood tide a race, and whirlp^jUj, prodil^d by its
encountering with the gulf current, so as to cause it to break heavy, and maketfit-appear
like shoals ; on the contrary, getting to the southward of this, race, you will have'^ooth
sea, and may keep in 15, 16, 14, 13, 8, and 7 fathoms water. The, bottom iff||^ya^
gravel, and some stones, upon which you may occasionally anchor. C^,thi» bflt^tiiQ
water is green, and you cannot see the bottom tintil in 2^ and 3 fathoniis, upon 'i^kifa,
or in the green water, there jnever has been any current experienced ; therefore the «^If
Stream does no more than touch along the edge nf soundings. jfe"";
The Matanilla should be avoided on a flood. • It has been represented in tM^9fi'
charts as extending to 27° 50' N. It has been sought for in that parallel, apd tfot hq^'
been found there, presumed not to exist, but still we think it should lii»-;ir0lded.
Orbit entered on the bank in lat. 26° 45' N., long. 79'' 12' W. ; from thence ihe
N. 10 leagues, leaving Memory Rock to the eastward, and the Western Reefs tC
westward ; from the lat. 27° 15', long. 79° 12', she steered N. E. 27 mile8,.^viiii
16, 15, 13, 10, and on the centre of the bank, 4i fathoms; from thenc<B to,
edge, the water deepened to 23 fathoms, and then no bottom, lat. 27° 33',
" The Derrotero de las Antillas," says, »' It ha? been generally beUev^d t^t''
terminates in a great reef; but the truth is that there is no^e, only thdjal|90^i|)
* 32 ^ "
']
250
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
flicting currnnta, particularly when the wind is from the northwaril and westward, causes
heavy overfalls, and the sea to break niiicii, which led to this mistake."
Capt. Livingston, in advf ting to this passage, says, " 1 have been informed that, after
Capt. Laso de la Vega disi overed there was iiu reef on tlie Matanilla Bank, the ship of
war El Angel, of 80 guns, was sent from Havana, under the command of Don F3ionisio
Alcola Gaiiar 1, to examine it, and did so most minutely as far as '27° 51', and found no
danger whatever. I lave also been told by an intelli^tent master of a New Providence
wrecker, that he has been v.* anclior on it, and that it is all perfectly safe, with a fine sandy
bottom."
The Derrotero also says, " When there is a N. E. swell on, upon the edges of the
Matanilla Bank, and in i.'5, 150, and 10 fathoms, the sea is jumbled up much by the shock
of the current, and so forms ovt;rfalls or breakers, which seem to indicate a shoal, but
there is none ; on the contrary, to the soutliward of tliese overfalls, you may find smooth
water, with 16, 15, 18, and 7 (iithoms."
De Maine, who surveyed the l>ahania Banks by order of the British government, savs,
"he struck on the Matanilla Bank, and knocked otfiiis keel." We have given all our
authorities and submit to the judgment of the reader.
The extensive chain of keys which borders the northern side of the Little Bahama
Bank, extends from the Elbow Reef 34 leagues W. N. W., and the laie delineations
prove how very inaccurately they have ever before been represented. The bank which
supports these keys is generally shoal, but there is a passage between them and the
Abaco Isles, having from 4 to 2 fathoms, which leads to the centre of the bank. The
entrance to this passage is close to the west of (Jrcat Guana Key, and the Whale
Key Rocks in lat. 26° 45', long. 77° 6'. To small vesoeis it atfords excellent shelter be-
tween the keys and Abaco.
But it 18 to be noted, generally, that a very heavy swell commonly sets upon thiscoast ;
and it is never advisable for a stranger to advance nearer than two leagues, as the wind
is mostly from the eastward. This is the case along the whole of the north-eastern
keys ; and, therefore, when sailing in this part, whether beating up or running down, a
too near approach is both unnecessary and dangerous.
ABACO, OR THE HOLE-IN-THE-WALL— The N. E. point of the island of
Abaco lies in latitude 26° 17' N., longitude 76° 57' W. When in its latitude, d saiit
nine miles, steer S. by W. J W. 12 miles, which will carry you on the bank off the
,i Hole-in-tbe-wall, in about 14 fathoms water. The first island to the northward of the
^% Jf. E. point, is Little Harbor Key. North of this, Linnyard's Key, and still farther
north. Little Guana Key. Linnyard and Pelican Keys run S. by W. ^ W. and N. by
Ml. J E. The distance between Linnyard's Key and Abaco is about two miles, fine sandy
jl^pttom, clear of rocks, and good anchorage, and bears north from the N.E. point of Abaco.
"*Po the N. K. side of the island of Aba'^o, in a direction N. N. W. from said point,
lSfi*W. from the south, and S. W. by S. from the north end of Linnyard's Key, is a
go6d watering place, called Weatherford's Well. To enter the channel leading to the
watcting place, which hes between Linnyard's Key and Little Guana Key, you r.iust
](jMp.a small island which forms the north side of the channel (about 300 yards Irom
LtjiQByard's Key) wall on board on your starboard hand, and you will pass the bar in 3
ftt^oms, and find good anchorage in 4 or 5 fathoms water, within about two miles west
^1^ tbe north point of Linnyard's Key. This channel is far preferable to the one at
tH*N. B. 'point of Abaco, independent of its safety and facility in getting water, as you
mty approiach within a mile and a half of the watering place with three fathoms, or
come inuHiediately abreast in two fathoms, within 300 yards"of the shore. Wood may
be hadiqei^undant^esiiinong the keys, together with shell and scale fish.
The ilrikter breaks where there is danger, with the wind to the eastward, and it is ad-
visab^ to have a lookouf aloft while going in.
The eastern part of the coast is completely iron-bound, and fragments of wrecks are
fpuqd on all its shores and keys.
The first point, south of the N. E. point of Abaco, is called Rocky Point. S. S. W,
i W. from this point, 6 miles distant, is a reef of rocks 9 miles in length, and Ij in
breadth, running in the same direction as the shore, inside of which is Cheeric Sound,
^j^JsWidb. makes a channel between the two.
4|fter passing the reef which lies off Rocky Point, the water is bold to within half a
aaii^of ^e shore, till up with the Kole-in-the-wall.
Tn||e laod between Rocky PiMnt and the Hole-in-the-wall forms a deep bay, in which
utt be careful not to be caught with a south-easterly wind
EVIDENCE CHANNEL, BAHAMA BANK, with its islands, Gulf Passage,
t'J^ORIDA COAST.— In preference to running down for Rocky Point,
• ibOiUt 2 mites S. S. W. from the N. E. point of the island of Abaco,)
^fet embayed, you must lie up S. S. E. and S. £. by £. to run along the
'*«fe^#
BLUiXT S AMERICAr^ COAST PILOT.
261
'estward, cause*
rmcd that, after
aiik, the ship of
)f Don Dionisio
.', and foHiul no
lew Providence
yith a fine sandy
lie edges of the
ich by the shock
Rte a shoal, hut
nay find smooth
ivernment, says,
ve given all our
B Little Bahama
aie delineations
riie bank which
n them and the
the bank. The
and the Wbnie
dient shelter be-
upon this coast ;
lies, as the wind
16 north-eastern
running down, a
of the island of
latitude, d s'ant
fhe bank oft" the
orthward of the
and still farther
1 W. and N. by
miles, fine sandy
. point of Abaco.
from said point,
yard's Key, is a
)\ leading to the
Key, you r.iust
300 yards from
lass the bav in 3
two miles west
ble to the one at
g water, as you
ree fathoms, or
re. Wood may
rd, and it is ad-
ia of wrecks are
Bint. S. S. W.
igth, and 1| in
Dheeric Sound,
o within half a
p bay, in which
Gulf Passage,
Rocky Point,
and of Abaco,)
o run along the
laiul, it is more prndrnt to run into the latitude of the llfile-in-the-wall, and with tha
wind any way to the southward '.'("east, it is prtsuMied every man would do it.
U(;liE-l\-THK-WALL.— 'J'hc Hole in-tlie-wall li.-s'in latitude Ja'' 61' North,
longitude 77^ 10' West, and is the south-east point of 'Abaco. By making Rocky
point .n the day tmie, you may have a safe run on your S. by W. '} W. course, 12
ieaijiies. and then, if you do nor choose to run, lay by, should it be in the nii^ht. The
generality of the vessels make the land too far north in the latitude of 20° 10' or 26° 20',
because an opinion prevails that the lan>l tliereaboiUs is soonest seen, ami are not aware
of its forming a bay to 'le south and west. It", at night, they make the land in the
parallel of :.M)° 10', with a strong bree/.e Irom the N. E., they are so close in shore, be-
foie they cin discover the land, that it is ;,lniost impossible to clear it, for the land, in
that latitude, trends a little to the westward, formmg a bay, a few miles north of the
f Hole-in-the-Wall, with areef of rocks outsi<le,in one part, half a mile from the shore;
and should they make the land farther north, the danger, with u scant wind, is still
greater, as there is constantly a heavy swell setting on the shore.
Vessels should run down their longitude in the pajaliel of •25=' 50', or from that to 26°,
and not farther north By keeping in this latitude they cannot miss the Hole-in-lhe-
wall, and they will likewise avoid the land on the .South or Harbor Island side.
Olf the Hoie-in-the-wall lies a bank, in a S. K. direction, 7 or 8 miles in length, and
about 4 miles broad in the middle, enuing with a point at the S. E. extremity.
Soundings tu,\-cn on the hank.
Hole-in-the-wall, W. 2 miles 12 fathoms.
do. W. i N. 5 miles 15 do.
do. W. Tiniles t)0 do. no bottom. .
do. W. by S. 6 miles .'50 do. oo bottom*
do. W.l'S. Smiles 13 do.
do. W. ■?, N. 3 miles 12 do.
do. W. by N. 2^ mil s 11 do.
do. N. \y. y N. 2i miles 16 do.
do. N. W. by N. 3 miles, off the bank.
B<»yond 15 fathoms there were no soundings with 80 fathoms. You may know when
on this ')ank, as the water changes at once Hon; a dark sea blue, to a beautiful vivid green,
is more agitated by a ground swell, and discovered the moment you are off, particulftrly
with a S. E. wind, at whicli time the above soundings were taken.
The Hole-in-lhe-wall (or Hole-in-the-rock) is an arch through the land, about lOfeetf
wide, and 4 or 5 feei high, the bottom nearly one f"oot above the water, which breakf
t'lrough the Hole, and may be seen when bearing S. 8. W. to W. S. W. ani N. N. E.
to E. N. E. and at first sight appears like a sand Mull", but at 3 or 4 miles distance laatiy-
be plainly distinguished to be an ar('h-\v.._^ through the land.
South from the Hole-in-the-wall 100 yards distant, is a rock, 60 or 70 yards \oxig,]t^-.
lowed out all round at its base by the water, which may be doubled within half a w^m*,. *
On the south point of the maiu luid is another corresponding projection, both wfilijji,
appear to have been caused byajj^me convulsions of nature, of which the whole toil^<
bears eydent marks. It is covered with fragments of vessels, spars, (Sec. and the wei|^H(ll
side has a complete barrier of stones, formed on the beach, al)ove the tide mairk^^|Kit)|j|||' .
nature and the S. W. gales, which at tir es blow very hard * .. w,a^
Five mile to the westward of the I' jle-in-the-wall, and about 300 yawls from ahblN^'
the soundings are regular, 2.t and 3 .c^'roms, and deepening rapidly, a* you leave it.
One quarter of a mile off the S. \'V . part 'of the island, you wiU have two fattionns, fiM
level sandy bottom. The land here is low, and covered with brushwood. Here Ae ebb
sets N. E. and tide rises three feet.
* Abaco lienolvivg Light. — Atone third of a mile from the Hole-in.the.wall, this ligKthOUil hiM
been directed, in 25° 51' 30" N. lat. and 77° 10' 45" "W. long. Its base is 80 feet abov».high
water, and the tower is 80 feet high. The light revolves once in every minute, and may be sw»*a| 'v
all directions except where the high parts of the island intervene ; and being 160 feet above th^eviS
oi the sea, it will be visible in clear weather at the distance of 15 miles to an eye elevated' 10 itet.
17 do. -, da. 86 ^.
19 do. -do. '40 #.
31 do. do. 80~&.
There is good anchorage [during the ordinary vjinds] in 10 And 11 fathoms; witbthfe li|h|liouM'
bearing E. by N. about half a mile from the shore. The time of high water at futtilUtifeiiiieif tt.
8h.,and the tide rises 3 feet. ♦ . I?' '• ;
tThe Hole-in-the-wall is seldom seen when to the eastward cif H, «i it ie aet<((j^(Blllil ««#':.;
near the shore, or when you ares. W. of it. ,, , if .
h
"".^
U0'^
252
BLUNT S AMEHICAN COAST PIT.OT*
Vesspls of niiy <lr;ni(;lit ouyht not fo npproatli llir |;iriil iK'iirrr tlinn nl)OtU 400 yards,
\vlit>rc they will lie in about 4 l''.(liuniN wiiter. Inside tlTm tin? wnter mIioiiIh Hoddcnly to
two I'iltllOIMH.
VcssfU in tlic nisjlit, (>r in foggy wonllirr, mny nm to tlir weHtwnnl, when in lafifnde
a.'j'^ )';' N. and sound till tlicy jnct in 11 or 1.") (aihoiuM, a id in* then xure lo clear tlic Hide-
in-tlip-wall hy a we.st course, six miles, when it will bear rorth, anri tlien run W. \ N. six-
tPPii leajjues, when 'Stirrnp Key will hear Houlh nix i.iile.s distant. Vessels running
down in the latitude of the Hole-iti-tlie-wall, will not get loiinditms till up with it.
In takin;!; your departure frutu the llole-in-lhe-wall lor the (ireat iiahauia Hank, steer
West twelve leajui's, and if the laiul he not in sifjht, haul W. S. \V. or S. W. hy W. and
make the jJJerry I.slandH, keep down past these ' lul keep a cood look-out for the
westernmost key, railed Stirrup Kev, before ; ed, whicli lies in latitude 'J5° 4rt'
N. and lonj^itude 76'' 2' W.
Extract from the log-book of the surviying sloop Orhit.
•'In approaching; the Berry Islands, the wafer is bold close in; two and a half miles
from the shore, 11 fathoms; two miles, 'J fathoms; one mile, f fathoms; the nortliern-
most pan of 8tirrup Key hearing W. hy N. three and a half miles, 7 fathoms ; \V. N. \V.
two and a half miles H fathonis, rocky bottom; west, one mile, 7 fathoms; W. S. W. three
quarters of a mile, 9 fathoms; atid all alone to the westernmost key, 8, 9, and 10 fathoms,
generally fme sandy bottom. The moment you get on soundings, in approaching the
Berry Islands, the water changes color. ».
" Sailed around the Rerry Islands till they bore N.N.K. two miles, anahad 5, 4, .3, and
3^ fathoms ; and far as live miles, 4, 3. 4, 4, 3.', 4, 3',', and 3,^ fathoms ; N. by E. six miles,
2V fnthoiTla. West Berry bcarinp; N. Nt'K. and Blackwood's Bush S. 8. E. course \V.
N. W. the soundings were 2, 4, and 5 fathoms; at '2\h. steered W. 4 fathoms; at 3h. S.
S. W. rfathoms; at 3'h. 8. S. W. 7 fathoms; 3'h. 6.1 fathoms; at 4h. 6 fathoms; at
4?h. 5' fathoms ; at 4'li. 4; fathoms; at J h. 3.', fathoius ; at Tjh. 3 fathoms ; at A.h. .3
faMioms; at 5';h. 2\ fathoms ; at f),}!. 2', fathoms; at fih. 2',' fathoms ; at ()_'h. 2^ fathoms;
at 6,h. 2! fathoms; at 7h.only 11 ft'ct, and came to anchor amons; black patches, which
we sounded and found to be Hat rocks, al)out one foot hi<;h, covered with weeds. The
water was shoal far to the westward of this. Vessels should not s^o among; these black
patches; the regular channel is quite frei from them, atui the water is muddy, having
aihiiky appeantnce, which prevents the l)ottom being easily seen."
The best courses for crossing the Bahama Bank are the following, viz. when Stirrup
ey bears S. 8 miles distant, (at which tilue it can be just seen from deck) steer W. S.
^ leagues, then haul to S.VV. by S. 1(J leagues: thence S. S. \V. or between tliat
t^d S. W. by S. to latitude 24° 55', when you may keep away W. and make JOrange
• .4- •*
*t)ff Stirrup Key there is good anchorage in 7 fathoms. To get shelter from strong easterly
wiode, in order t6 repair any damage or to obtain water, you may anchor to the west of the west-
e^lRoet island, in 7i or 8 fathoms, on good holding ground. W. S. W. from Stirrup Key 4 miles
dtitltnt, the BrigDromo struck in 9i feet, hard coral boitom, having 2J fathoms to the S. and \V.
tJh iBQich side, and 5 fathoms to the northward. On Stirrup Key there is a settlement, and n Ctis.
todr.iiDUse established: the place is called- Wiiliamstown. Here refres<hnient8 of every kind can
be obtaintsdv
t The Berry Islands consist of about thirty large kej-s, with innumerable smaller ones; they lie
to the N.E. of AndrOB Island, the south-easternmost of which is Frozen Key, and the northern.
most Stirrup Key. There are soundings all round the group; and 20 fathoms may be found at two
ntUesfrom anj;.of the keys. The surface of the bottom is sand, and below that, a kind of a lime-
Btone. The isles form severnj email harbors, where water and other refreshments mr.y be had, but
are seldom frequented by any other than the people of New Providence. At the Berry Islands the
tide rises two feet more when the sun is to the northward of the equator, than it does when to the
Bouthward of it. In the anchorage, orlittle.Jiarbor of these islands, the tide runs with strength among
tiie rooks, in a N.W. direction. "
■ '"" tOrange Keys is a cluster of rocks and keys, lying near the west edge of the Great Bahama Bank,
.. exteading from latitude 24" 53' to 24'^ Sfr N.' and longitude 70° 6' W. The main rock is about
' three quarters of a mile in length, and the broadest part about 120 yards, highest part 20 feet, and
narroiivest 8 yards. It is a barren rock, the eastern^ide quite straight, and runs S. S. W. and N. N.
Ei-4k by W. of'the main island, distant three-quarters of a niil;?, are two rocks, ti feet out of w a-
ter, alout 15 feet in length; and one half a mile S. by W. of these, lie two smaller rocks. It is
dang^^s to pass between either of these rocks, and the principal island, as reefs run out and con.
nect tiJtaQ, i<) or 40 yards ^n».d, and soon as over 4 fathoms. One mile soutb t/f these rocks, ycu
l^fl^ safety. They ftcifi.^itiass of solid rock, and may be approached' at the westward to
** igthW 11 feet Waten N. W. of them is good anchorage in 8i fathoms, foul ; there is
hsge S. Ei HOratige Keys in 6 fathoms, without other danger than the eye an.
tnorthwmi^itis ootaafa to approach within three miles, as the water breaks, and
way SI
i
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAMT Ml,OT«
253
)ont 400 yiirdd,
iiIh sixUlfnly to
lirn in latifiule
clear till- Ifdlc-
III \V. I N. six-
'esscls running
) will) it.
ma I5anl<. strrr
\V. l.y W. anil
()(ilv-ont Inr tlif-
atitude t»5° 4d'
nd a half tnilps
; the nortliern-
ns; \V. N. W.
^\^ S. \V. three
ind 10 fathoms,
jjproaching the
liad 5, 4, 3, and
by E. six milos,
. K. course W.
loins; at 3h. S.
. f) fathoms; at
mis ; at f),h. 3
'h. '21, fathoms;
patclies, whieli
h weeds. The
)ng these bhicli
muddy, having
when Stirrup
10 steer W. S.
r between tliat
make JtJrange
strong easterly
west of tiie west,
rrup Key 4 miles
to the S. and VV. ,
nient, and n Cus-
jf every kind can
er ones; they lie
nd the northern.
y he found at two
a kind of a lime,
mr.y be had, but
Berry Islands the
dues when to the
h strength among
at Bahama Bank,
ain rock is about
part 20 feet, and
S.W.andN.N,
H feet out of wa-
ller rocks. It is
run out and con.
these rocks, ycu
the westward to
ns, foul ; there is
than the eye an-
rater breaks, and
K*y«, or eontinup on your course to lililude 'Jl^ I'")', when you may keep down WMt,
and leave the bank willioiit (iani^er. lii case you should prefer to haul to sooner than
directed, in nruHsins; the bank, and find your water »hoaliiiu, you may, by kee|)in(r off W.
3 |e:iunes or more, (inil the deep water of the channel, which is T) leasju^'s in breadth;
bear up as soon as you get but 'J| fathoms, as it shoals suddenly and irregularly from that
depth.
Von may even run 7 leagues (ui your on W. S. W. course, after leaving Stirrup Key,
without daiiuer : be careful to allow for the tide. Uu the north side, tlie Hood sets S. S.
K. and ebb N. W. and as you draw on the bank. t)ie force of the tide decreaseu, for when
you have got 4 or 5 leagues on the bank, the tide is but a slight set. Or when Stirrup
Kev Ix'ars South !"> miles distant, you may steer S. W. by W. 11 iciles.aiid then S. S.
\V. until off the ilaiik. The water in the regular channel is milky white, to the east-
ward you have it clear with black spots on the bottom, and to the westward clear with
hard white bottom.
By crossing the Bank as above directed, you will see few or no spots of sponge, and
the bottom is with difliculty discerned, and may be sure of three fathoms all the way.
Be careful of Orange Keys in the night-time, as they are very low, and cannot be seen
until on board of them, and the soundings are dcej)ened regular, until very near them on
their t-ast side.
S. W. from Orange Iveys, 5 or (> miles distant, is good anchorage in 20 fathoms water.
AViien up with these keys, a passage is secured through the (iulf, for then you may
make sail eitlier in the morning or at itiidnight. steering S. W, 10 or 11 leagues, that
will enable you to (all in with Salt Key Hank, which for 10 leagues on the north side
stretches 10. and \V. and conse(iuently the current sets stronger as you come to the west-
ward. In coming over you have jiood souniliiiiis all along by it. There is anchorage by
spots all the way in, but the soundings are narrow at the Double-Headed Shot, the N.
W. point of which lies in latitude S.i^ 5'J' N. This route, however, demands the most
zealous care, in order to avoid any shoal which may exist, although unknown. North
4^" W. four miles distant from Orange Keys is the Ualcon Shoal, having only twelve
feet.
The edge of soundings, between the *iliding Rocks and Orange Keys, ia clean; you
There is no sign of verdure on these keys,
has a rider, projecting to a very considernble extent,
but round tlicm plenty df lisli.
Many persons mistnke Orance Keys for the Ridins Roclis, north of which you cannot go; but
north fronrOranifc Keys, 3 miles distant, you will tind a pns.-^ape, although it is not sofe for strangeri,^
to go this way, neither should it be attempted by any one, as you are obliged to picl' ur way througl^:
black patches, which arc sometimes shoal. Var. 'l°2(i' II. 18S20. ^^
* Ridint? Rocks lie G leagues north of Orange Keys, consisting of one rock or 1 ey, about hal^S
mile long, and 12 yards wide in the brondesi part, which is nearly divided one-third from its eoiifh
point by tt bay. Thii Key is vrr^ irregular in its beighi, and more uneven than Orange Keys ; about
2i miles to the northward of iliia rock, is a small island about 2i miles long, and 250 or SOOyagids'
broad in the broadest part. To the northward of the southernmost key lie three small rocka, MP^
10 or 12 yards long, each running N. W. by N. 'f he siufhern key runs N. by W. — ^the onel^xt
to this key is ,'jO yards from it: this, 100 yards from tKc''third, and the third 100 yards fron^tbe
second. These rocks are about 3 or 4 feet high. SuutTi of this key are two haycock rocks, j,ua|4nt
of water, 6 or 8 yards from the land. There are also two rocks which lie half a,*fllill)-«99t of tlif
southernmost key, the largest 80 feet long, and the smallest .50 feet long, about (ike hundiretl'fiiei'.
asunder, and 12 fret high. These two rocks lie N. and S. There is a rock as big as aamall (Mb
about half a mile to the northward of these two rocks. A reef extends i^li along between tll»»i:r^j.
rocks, with the southernmost of the Riding Rocks b'lar'ng N. N. W. dtsttent l.J naile, 5 fathonM. '
Eastein Rock and the northern key, in a line bearing J J. by W. Similes, 4^ fathoms mie lewl ■>.
sandy bottom; 2J fathoms imrucdiaicly, and 3 miles di8.ant,-3 fath«TO.8. Northern Riding Rook* "'
bearino W. 5 miles, 3^ fathoms. Southern Key, bearing S. W. by W. 3 miles, 3^ fathomSi Mliia
or Northern Key bearing VV . N. W. 24 miles, 'i fathoms. There is a shoal runs out from thi%k«3r in ,
a N. N. E. direction, on wjiich are 6 teei water. You will not have a passage to northward- ii>f the
Riding Rocks for vessels drawing 6 feet water. Ebb sets N. E. IJ mile per huUr. S. by E. 1\
mile from the east lump of the Riding Rocks, there is a sizeable isle, with various small lw]t| ia jte»< ■,
vicinity, called Rock Key ; there is goo J anchorage on its west part, in TJ and 8 fatbomBiSMl4 i
and the edge of soundings lies 14 mile off. , • . A _-
In steering from the Orange Keys to the Riding Rocks, the deepest soundings are 8j|, d|tf thtt
shoalest 4 J fathoms. The western edge of the bank is an iron bound shore, being oonn««bd hy
one grand chain of rocks, extending under water from Key to Key. '*
Extract from ihmOrhit's log.book. — " Laying at anchor, among tbesf shoalt, At low w^r had'
12 feet, and at higtP|i^ater,i!3 iiset ; had a light wind at W, S. W. and could s^ the edgle (^^K>iUid>.
ings off deck, not ntSr&>tban three quarters of a mile distant: got under Wjjt at firat^fCaBd iii.^;'!
making a tack crossed over some shoals with only 13 feet water on tlieia,'CNi'^(4ii||4bffi^oi>l(l QC^F
r
"T^SSSSS^
DLUNTS AMERICAN COAST I'lI.OT.
may eiitor on it witlioiit Dthf-r v.»r»- tliiiti that of the lead. Kiom Orarmn Kryu, whirh are
the soiiihi'rniiioNt ki'ys dii (his siili- of the hank, the cdxe of nonndiiiKH runn ahoiit S. by
K. very clean to '.'4 Uy, and more or less deep; it (ornit*, with tlu' keyn on Salt Kev
liaiik, a channel, which is liottondeNN, and callc(l Santnrcn. The aliove oh^ervation, iii
entering on to the hank i)etween ( fran^e Keys and Kidini{ Uockn, meuint only theed^e;
OH yon net tnriher on, you (ind the soimdinun ol)Ntru<tcd in their regularity by many
coral HhoaN, hut by day, and wih a free wind, you can pick yojirway.
In Nlar-liKl)t nights the hiuik reflects a i)ri;;;ht li^htinto the air, which maybe xeen ht 4
or,S le,ii;ues. ^ iiu may observe this rcllectionail over botii llie Maiiaiiia Hanks, but not
on Salt Key Hank; neiilier can you see it while on the baid«; but when in theCJulC, you
can plainly distinguish the I'rovidence Channel, havin;; none of this relleciion between
the two retlections ot tlie (ireat and Little Bahama Itanks.
An ex|)erieticed navigator (tlie late ( 'apt. Parke, ot" New-York) wliile crossing the
Bahama Hank, ntade the fojlowmg remarks, which we know are entitled to lull credit;
"Having been tliree days detained by lit;ht S. W. winds and cahn weather on my last
passage across the bank, I made the following observations on (he iide,vi/. the flood tide
sets south, veering to S. W. and the ebb north, veering to N. K. For three days in sue-
cession tlie tide set neaily two knots in each direction, ami very reguiar; on iJie tliird
day the weatlier i)eing still and calm, I weighed anchor and drilled with the title soiitli,
S. S. W. and S. W. When the vessel stopped drifting, I anchored in ') fathoms water,
and rorle the ebb : when the tide slacked, I again measured the depth of the water in the
same place, and found lli feet."
It is not presumed tlie same depth of water can always be carried over thcfjank, even
in the same track, as it must occur to the mind of every |)erson that a strong easterly
wind Will drive the water off the bank, as well as a strong northerly increase its (|iiantity ;
in all parts of the chaimtl the bottom is of a sticky <|uality, whereas to windward the
bottom is hard, and spots thicken as you shoal youi water. Almost every regular trader
has a different co'urse to run across the bank, but the principal object is to clear '.Sheep
Key Shoals; with the wind scant, and not drawing a heavy draft of water, you should
haul to a little sooner, but not without a leadsman constantly in the chains, and should
bear up as soon as you shoalen your w^ater to 2^ fathoms. With the wind .steady and
free, so th,:' you could lay to windward of south, you should always make sure of west-
ing to clear the shoals to windward, taking care not to run so far as lo get among the
shoals which stretch off from the east side of the keys which border the bank on its
western edge.
There were scarcely two men who crossed the Bahama Bank that agreed as to the
latitude of the Orange Keys, and many doubted their existence ; this difference of opinion
iilduceid sending the sloop Orbit: the subject is now at rest, as marine and land surveys
hare been made by her officers, of the Orange Keys, Riding Rocks, (Jat Keys, Great and
LjNKIc Isaac, with the rocks, A:c. adjoining, all which are previously described,
6UN CAY LIGHT. — At '2o0 yards from the southern extreme of tJuu Cay (a nar-
row ridge of coral which stands on the western edge of the Great Bahama Bank) a light-
lic^p has been erected in 25° 34' 30" North Latitude, and 7^ 18' 24" West Longi-
tnlP Its base is 25 feet above high water, and the height of the Tower is 65 feet.
Ttif light revolves once in every minute, and may be seen in all directions, except be-
tw0tD tbf» i^earings of S. by W. 4 W. and S. ? K. (Magnetic) where, at the distance of
about 8 tn^(HMi!t will be intercepte»l by the Bernini Islands.
When w|niiD 5 miles distance, vessels should not bring the light to the southward of
the S. £..',38 the chain of Cays and Reefs project in a curve to tlie westward, and as
they lie wilbio a mile of the outer edge of the Bank, there might be scarcely time to ob-
tayM^iindings. The flood tide also sets strongly to the easiward through the intervals
of TOft^ays, where it is hi|h water at full and change at 7h. 30m. and the tide rises three
feet.
».'-,.-
be more than 7 or 6 feet at low water ; and I have no doubt, but, at times, after heavy gitles, these
^jfi&Mls mof be above the water's edge. "
High water, at full and change on the edges of the bank, nt 8h. 50m. On the north side the
ise is 3 feet; on the west, to the northward of Orange Keys, 3 feet ; to the southward of Orange
fe«t ; and in lat. 24'^ 10', 5 and 6 feet. The flood and ebb set from three quarters of a mile
liies, on and off the bank.*"
tp Keys bears S. S. W. i W. 7 or 8 leagues from Stirrup Key, and lies off the N. W. pnrt
rlakads; from these keys it is, as before observed, very foul to the westward, and the
'^~ quite round to' Stiinip Key ; the bottom covered with spots of sponge and rocks, the
' or thelwad of a hogsbeaid ; and any object on the bottom may as plaitily be seen
lplerv«a«d. liytetha tide naes 4 feet.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
255
The lidhf heinn 0() tVrt nliitve ilic level of tlie ura, it will be visible in clear weather
at tlie disluncu ul' 1.' riiilf)* tu iiii eye elcvuti'd 1(1 Ivft.
13 yo do.
i:> 40 do.
17 HO do.
On the Bahama Bank, iti lat.'.M" 10' to hitifiide '.'4 ' ','(»' it is :<honl nearfherdge. The
tide riiieA 0 le(*(, and tlnr)' are many .spots in lliis spare with less than 10 feet at low wa-
trr. The nhoal lies within one niile of th's edi^e oC tlie bank : they are of quicksand,
and of ('ourne the depth of water on tlieni ninst alter with every gale.
Should you prefer runniii'.' dusvn the Culia shore, you may steer S. VV. after leaving
the bank in latuudc '.'4' 40', and when sure of havini: passed the Double-Ileaded Shot,
hnul a little more srmlherly, say S. \V. by S. and make the island of (.'uba; this i<t
called the route by the Santaren Chamiel, atid is at all times preferable. Keep down in
shore as far as the table land of ,Mari<d, which caiwiot be mistaken, when you may run
over .N. W., and if not more tlian '24 hours in the (iulf, you will clear the TortugaH ; but
if you are a lont;pr lime in rrossing, it would bo prudent to keep a look out for colored
water and the Tortti^as. The Pan of Matan/.as bearinj; .S. S. VV. to S. appears like one
round hill, but at any other bearing you will see another each side of it, not so high and
adjoining to it. If you are near in shore, on passing the tiavann, you will see the
shipping in the harbor, and the Moro Castle light may be seen H leagues off. The table
of Mariel is '> leagues from the Havana.
When you anchor on any part of tht; e«lge of the bank, in order to p.nss the night, or
for a favorable tide, you ought to have every thing ready to make sail the moment it may
be necessary; and also, if the sky looks ill, you should have the topsails reefed. From
any one of these ancliorages you may make sail with any wind; and, generally speaking,
every one in these parts, who re(|uires to anchor, may find a proper place to do so, and iu
which he may be sheltered from the winds that molest him, or which he foresees coin-
ing; an<l without eddy winds to leeward, which cause trouble in case of fouling the an-
chor, though they only requirt. vigilance and a seaman-like dexterity.
On leaving the bank, you tniist be careful not to fall in with the Florida Shore or Dou-
ble-headed .Shot Keys in the night-time ; but wkh day-light and a breeze, there ia no
danger in makiug eittjer.
High water a't full and change on the edges of the bank at Rh. and .'JOm. — on the north
side it rises two feet ; o the west to tlie northward of Orange Keys, U feet; to the south-
ward of Orange Keys, 4 feet; and in latitude 24^ 10', it rises 5 and 6 feet. The flood
and ebb set from three-riu irters to two knots on and otit" the bank.
PROVIDKNTK N. \V. CHANNEL, AND N. W. ElKiE OF THE GREAT
BAHAMA BANK. — As vessels drawing over 13 feet water cannot cross the Great
Bahama Bank from the Berry Islands to the Orange Keys, it is necessary to oavigatk
along the edge to the north of the Isaacs, and doubling them go as far sooth as the Oi^-
ange Keys; the best course is, when up with the Hole-in-tbe-wall, to steer W. by If.
36 leagues, which will carry you to the west edge of the bank, and abont 2J league*
'■'om the Great Isaac, taking care to keep in 1'2 or 16 fathoms, in which you ought to
pass two miles from the Great Isaac ; then shape your course through the gulf, exer^
cising the utmost care so as not to get far out from the edge of soundings, because tl^^
moment you leave the edge, and get into blue water, you will be in the g^neinl caitent
or Gulf Stream, which sets strongly to the northward ; therefore, if the Iliad ^i^M not'
permit steering along the edge of the bank, you ought to anchor on it xa& wait tiU tfa**^^ '
wind be favorable. He who has no experience in this place, ought StM^tftpaSi bey onit -
the Great Isaac by night, but may anchor to the N. E. of the ceotH^dT Ike ialan^, ii^
from 7 to 10 fathoms, on sand, and wait for day-light. '
To run along the edge of these banks you have to attend to the lead, and lltep an vb^
usually strict lookout, as the Gingerbread Ground, in the neighborhood ofth^ Little
Isaac, makes up at once from deep water; with wWch guide, and the notice we
have given, you will have sufficient information to enable jon to avoid all dinger.
On the edge of soundings, although you do not feel the general current, yet thero^
is a set of the tide, which may either run a vessel off the edge, or upon the keys ;
but this cannot happen if the lead, which ought to be kept constantly going, is praf)erly*
attended to, as it will warn whether to keep to starboard or Iarboan]> in order to^pre-
serve the proper depth. In this psssage '4ou will pass *Little Isaac, f Great l^aac,.
and tBemini Isjes r ^* J
. 4 1^ . . —
* Little Isaac consists of three islands or rocks, running in an E. S. ^. ^in^itiOBt d>e#estam
rock is about 40 feet in leng^th ; the eastern rock, rather larger, about 5 mi^ tt^' >tktf>^estem
one ; between these two, in a direct line, is a smaller rock, about one QUlediMaatlloiMrfw eastern
Isaac, on the same line: they lie about 5 or 6 miles in on the bank : outada of tlMti A^nvndioga aii»
1
.4 ■
m
.
^^ \
i
I .
.J^.^:Jttif~'.:.
250
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
From Orange Keys y may leave the bank and enter the Gulf without dread of the
current, steering as bcfor. .nected for the Uoiible Headed Shot Keys. Or you may from
tl.3 Riding KorUs steer for the Salt Key \iiu\k, navii^atinii alonj; its edge, and, as it were,
having doubled the western angle, steer for the coast of Cuba; but to do this it is ne-
cessary to steer from tlie Riding Rocks S. S. W., and s-iil more than 4 miles the hour,
and as one is not master of the winds, if it should be calm you will be in danger of drift-
ing to the north, a thing you siiould by ail means guard against, on which account we
consider the ua*. igation by the Santaren Charuui as preferable.
This navigation, which we have just described, is not in common practised by those
'X
clean ; you will have 14 fathoms on the edj-c diminishing pnidiially, so that one mile from them
you have 6 fathoms. In all the distance between Siirnip Key and Little It^aac, the edge is clean
and you may navigate down it by the hand lead. S. E. lV>)m the Little Isaac you may unch(jr
good holding ground, but a heavy sea. The shoal ground on which these rock^ exist is called the
Gingerbread Ground : it extends 5 len;^ues E. by S. from the western Rock, and has some danger,
ous rocky heads upon it, with only 7 to 9 feet water. Under the S. W. end of the Gingerbread
Ground, within the Little Isaac, you may anchor in SJ and 4 fathoms. The holding ground is
good, but there is often much sea. There is also good anchorage in 8 and 9 fathoms off the east
end of the Gingerbread Ground, at l~'i leagues to the westward of Little Stirrup Key, which may
be found useful during a northerly wind.
+ Great Isaac is a key of moderate height, about bulf a league in extent from east to west, in lat.
26° 1', long. 79° 2', and bears about W. N. W. from Little Isaac, distant ^ leagues. A cluster
of litde islets and rocks, called the Hen and Chickens, lies at the distance of two miles to the
S. S. W. of its western point. There is also a round rock, about 20 yards broad, at the distance
of two miles N. E. by N, from the N. E. point, and a reef called the Brothers, at the distance of
a league to the east, from the east point. The ground in other parts is clear, and to the N. W.
and S. W. of the isle is good and extensive anchoring ground, with regular soundings from 15 to
5 fathoms, with soft limestone bottom and broken shells. The Brothers are two haycock rocks,
lying W. S. W. and E. N. E. IJ mile distant, the easternmost being about 5 miles from the Great
Isaac. The Hen and I ckens have good anchorage on the west side of them in .5^ or 6 fathoms
of water, fine sand. TIkj bank of soundings extends 6 miles to the west of the Great Isaac, with
increasing depths, from 7 to 16 fathoms ; and to the S. W. nearly 6 leagues, with 7, 6, 7, 6. 10, and
17 fathoms, and from the Great Isaac to Bernini Islands, the soundings are 9, 9, 8, 7, 7^, 8, 8, 8
'fathoms. \0n the bank you can anchor, the Great Isaac bearing S. E., in 8, 5, and 10 fathoms.
Near \h/&e&t Isaac, at the N. W. extremity of the Providence Channel, the current runs to the
east at the rate of two miles an hour.
Too much ca'ition cannot be used between the Great Isaac and the Bernini Isles, as there are
several rocks under water. The shoal on which the Hritish brig Moselle struck is the most dan.
gerouB, and the bearings of the land from the spot were as follows ;
The N. E. point of Bemini Isles, S. S. E. i E. 5 or 6 miles. The southernmost part in sight S.
Iiy W. I W. The ground water rock (wdiich appears above water, and lies to the northward of
Bemini) S. E. \ S. 1^ mile distant.
This reef is upwards of a mile in length, and about 60 feet wide. It lies in a S. by W. and N,
by E. direction, and has 3 and 4 fathoms close to it on both sides. In some spots there is not more
tb&n 10 feet at high water, the tide rising and falling between 3 and 4 feet ; flood setting to the N.
Br and ebb to the S. W., forming a rippling, like the nteeting of two currents. Position, when
Ground, latitude 25° 46/ N., longitude 79° 19' W. Dc Mayne places the rock in 353 50' N. and
iB^tude 79° 15' W.
The flQ<^l)flre sets at the rate of about IJ, and the ebb 3 miles an hour.
t'The ^Hini Isles are low, with some small trees, or rather bushes on them, particularly on the
S. E. part of the South Isle. They are the westernmost isles of the Great Bank, and lie in latitude
250 44' N., longitude '79° 4' W. Under the south point there is a bay, with some low keys lying
S. S, E. and S. E. ofi^in which you can anchor ancf have shelter from winds at N. round to S. E.,
with 4^, 5^ and 6 fathoms, or you can pass the night here when bound southward. On these keys
and Islands thbre is eonie wood and water.
These island^ ar« represented from a plan made by the officers of the British brig iVioseiie, in July,
1810, which exhibits a shoal on the south side of the Southern Bemini, as having only 3 feet of
water, white sand and sponge. On the edge of the bank, south of the S. W. point of the same isle,
there are no soundings within a cable's length of the rocks ; but westward of the same point, is the
, anchorage above described, extending outward about one league : and the edge of the bank thence
I continues in a N. N. E. direction, but having within it simllai; soundings to the distance of 5 leagues.
, Beyond this, is a dry rock, and a ledge on which the Moselle grounded.
Tfee inlet or harbor, Blstij'^Jii the Beminis, has throughout from 12 and 11 to 10 and 9 feet at
low^tar.
Fr^ the S.W. point of the Southern Bemini, a chain of low keys and rocks, called the Turtle
Rochi, extend about 3 mites tOJlj^ieouth. Some of them do not rise to the level of the water. Here
the b&J( is very steep, as, at^t^^tonce of a pistol shot, no bottom is to be found, and, at the naif
lengthwf a ship, are 14 and'lijtatnotns, on sand. Barnett's Harbor, a hole in the bank, of 2^ fa.
tfaoms.lteysB this from a auw^ediBg group of keys, called the Cat Keys, which extend to the south,
nearly to iiP.30' N.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
257
lich account we
actised bv those
10 and 9 feet at
bound from Europe to Havana, or to the Gulf of Mexico, as it offers no advantage over
thit of the old channel, or tiiat to the south of f^jba, which is more direct ; but it may
be well for vess^l^ from the United States, and for those who, driven out of the Bahama
Channel, by calms or accident, wish to avoid the lonij circuit of 3;uinin!r sufficient eaat
loiifitiide to m ike Point Mavsi and remrn to Havana bv the old channel.
SOI rHKRN BORDKli OF (iRKAT BAHAMA BANK.— Key Verde is the
snuth-easternmost key of the Great Bahama Bank, in lat. •^•>°. It is only a mile and a
hdf ill lenij;tli. and about two cables' lein;lh broad, extendina; K. S. E. and W. N. \V.,
and is destitute of fresh water. Kroiu this key the ed^;e of the bank extends W. S. W.
11 lea'iiies, to the Key of St. Dominiio, in the nio;nh of the Bahama Channel. The
ground bt'tween Key Verde and St. Domingo's Key is generally clean ; but there are
two shoals, one at lii miles from Key Verde, on the edge of the bank, is called St. Vin-
cent's, and dop3 not exceed a cable's length in extent from N. N. W. to S. S. E. by half
a cable at its greatest breadth, with only 3 feet over it : the second shoal is also on the
edge of the bank, *J miles from St. Vincent's, and 'JS from Key Verde : it is formed of
rocks, is not so large as the former, and has one fathom over it.
The Key of St. Domingo is arid : it is a cable's leniith long, and half a one broad, and
its middle forms a small hill, covered with the Indian fish-bush, which looks like an up-
set vessel, and may be seen at the distance of three leagues. A breaker extends fron^
the S. S. \V. side to the distance of three leagues ; and W. by S. from its middle,
at the distance of two or three cables, there is a hank of 6 and 7 fathoms, with very clear
jvater, where shsltfer from the breezes may be found.
On the southern part of the bank, to the westward of the Key of St. Domingo, there
is no particular object which is not sufficiently described. The only spots above water
are the two keys called Lobos and Guincho, or Wolf and Ginger Keys, both of which
have foul ground about them, from north round by east to south, so that, in these di-
rections, they should not be approached nearer than a mile. Both may be seep at the
distance of b or 8 miles. The shoal grounds naiiietl the Mucaras, which afe about 20
miles to the south-eastward of Lobos, have weeds or grass at the bottom, and it is, there-
fore, requisite to notice that the water on them remains as dark colored as in the mid-
chuin?!. Without them are no soundings, and they should, therefore, be approached
with great caution, for without this a vessel may easily be lost, even in day-light. Ot\
fii3 very eilge of the bank, between Lobos and (Tiiincho, there are some other shoal spots;
and vessels of great <lraught should not venture upon the bank. There are, likewise,
some rocky spots to the westward of Guincho, so that caution here is also required.
ANGLHLA OR SALT KEV BANK— This bank lies opposite the western end of
the Old Clvinnel of Bahama, between the (treat Bank of Bahamaand the Island of Cuba,
and forms the channels of Santaren and St. Nicholas, the former on its N. p. and fhg
latter on its south side. '<
The following description of this bank is by Mr. De Mayne, who surveyed it in 182#t
" Its greatest extent is from N. \V. to S. E. about i20j leagues, and the broadest partlu
about 12 leaunes. Its western edge is bounded by a chain of barren rocks, called Uie
Double-headinl Shot Keys, the norlh-westernmost of which, called Elbow Key, li^JQ
latitude 23='55' x\., and longitude 80= 'J5' 30" \V. From this point they extend tO^
N. E. by E. in rather a circular direction, 9 miles to Water Key, which is the largcfjinff
this chain, being nearly 2 miles in length, and about half a mile broad. Near tbe c0iitM
pf this key, and close to a good boat landing-place on the south side, is |^f||rj4*^«li
of fresh water, formed by a hole in the rock." "•' - ^
"Opposite Wafer Key, as well as all these chains of rocks, on thesotlth,jOrhai}h^0,
there is good anchorage in 5 or 6 fathoms water at any distance from tb«in, and gOitA
holding ground ; and from these rocks being so closely connected, fheyfoiin a complete
breakwater against the winds from the west, N. W. north, and N. E. quarters, which
snmniinss blow with great violence, particularly in the months of Febniarytuid March.
Th:? wind from any other quarter seldom blows stronger than wlj^t may bdUerpied 2^
brisk e;ale." ' ' .
" From abreast of Water Key, the bank trends to E. N. E. about § OK 9 leagues', and
thence S. E. by S. to the Anguila Isjands. a distance of about 13? leagues, fnn^8pii£^
there are several clusters of rocks, rugged and barren, some of which ajre very Kt^tfalJbfe
the sea, situated at about 4 miles within the edge of the bank, forming chaoitcls' Of pas-
sages to the bank, which appear safe to sail through. They are distant from 6ac1t other
from 1 to 10 milei. On examining the four westernmost of these passage?, th^t was
not f;jun 1 less th iii 5 fathoms water ; the bottom very rocky, until you get well^n the
bin'i. Ships should be caiitious not to approach too near these elustera of rocw ; fb^
doeppu water will be found by keeping as near npd-ch^nnel a» possible."
"The Anguila I-dands are situated on the somh-eastern extrtMnitV of the bwlk : they
are so closely connected, that they niay be said to form bvU os« idaiodi abttfti 8 tt^i in
33
■i
>
J
.,3mf'%^!$.
258
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
letif^th, and three quarters in brendth, and can be seen 4 leagues off. They are covered
with brush-wood, but aH'ord no fresh water : on the N. E. side the approach is danjicr-
ous ; but on the S. \V. side there is good anchorage in 5 or 6 fathoms water, shehered
from north to S. E. winds."
" The S. E. extremity of the Anguiia Islands appears in 'atitude 23'^ 29' 40" N., and
longitude 79° 27' 40" VV'. The north-westernmost of the L>og Koclis, in latitude 24° 4'
10", and longitude 79° 50' W. A dangerous shoal is represented near the eastern edge
of the bank, in latitude 23° 4Gi' ; but this, with tlie vstrious keys near ihe edge, and
rocliy heads in the interior of the bank, will be best undmstood by inspecting the chart."
" Key Sal * is situated near the S. W. extremity of the bank, and distant from the El-
bow Kev of the Double-headed Shots, about 41 leagues. This island is of a triangular
shape, and about 1^^ mile in length, having an excellent salt pond in its centre, the pro-
duce of which is of the finest quality. The centre of this key is in latitude 2.'>° 42' N.,
and longitude 80^ 20 ;' \V. Nearly east from Key Sal, distant 2! miles, is a small shoal,
even with the water's edge, called Lavanderas ; and in a north-west direction from ihe
same key, about 4 miles, is another small shoal, also even with the water's edge. Both
these dangers can be seen at all times, in the day, at a sutiicient distance to avoid them."
" The general de|)ths on the interior of the bank, those on the rocky heads excepted,
are from 4 to 5, G, and 7 fathoms."
" The tiiles, on the west part of the bnnk, being much influenced by the Gulf Stream,
run in various directions. The flood sets strong through all the openings, or belwpcn
the rocks, towards the centre of the bank, and the ebb contrary. It is high water on full
and change days, at Anguila Island, at three quarters after 8, and at Water Island at 9
o'clock. Spring tides generally rise 3 feet 4 inches, neaps 2 teet 3 inches ; but much
depends on the wind."
The Derruterp says. Key Sal may be discovered at the distance of 1') miles, and fresh
water may be procured on it with facility, although there is not any on Anguila, or the
other keys in its vicinity. This bank has three rocky shoals upon it. as shown in the
charts; but vessels may navigate upon it withoul danger, in 7.', 8, and 9 fathoms water,
in all the months from October to .May. Whenever the appearance of the sky indicates
a hard north, it is advisable to enter on the bank, and anchor under the shelter of the
keys; or you may lie to there, being careful only to make use of the lead, until the wind
changes, so as to enable you to proceed.
The current does not always set through Nicholas Channel to the westward, but a
regular tide of ebb and tlood prevails througliout ; the flood setting eastward, and the
ebb westward, at the rate of about one mile in an hour.
In the Santaren Channel, between the (Treat Bank of Bahama and the Salt Key Bank,
there is said to be rarely any current, unless after heavy gales, when it runs with great
violence up and down. If it predomin.ites in one direction more tlian another, it is to
the N. N. W., and about one mile an hour.
Description of the Southern and Eastern Coast nf East Florida.
TORTUGAS ISLANDS. — On the southern edge of soundings, which extend ofl" the
weatern coast ofthe promontory or peninsula of East Florida, are 10 or 11 keys or small
islands, called the Tortugas Islands, which is the westernmost land, and which announces
the proximity ofthe General Florida Reet', which terminates the southern edge of sound-
ings, and which continues to the east, doubling the above mentioned promontory, and
extends to Cape Florida.
The Tortugas (often called the Dry Tortugas) are generally looked upon to be very
dangerous, and to aperson unacquainted with them they undoubtedly are so, especially
in the night time; yet, when they are known, on man^ occasions, they may be found
both useful and convenient. They extend east and wesr 9 miles, and north and south 6
miles, and although very low, can be seen at the distance of 12 miles, being covered with
bushes: you should not come nearer them than two miles, as they liave some rocky spits,
which extend that distance from them.
To the west there is a large bank of coral rocks, intermixed with white patches of sand,
on which tlie soundings are irregular; but as the bottom shows itself very plainly, there
is no danger. This bank is of an oblong form, and between it and the Tortugas Islands
there is a clear channel of three miles wide, with soundings from 13 to 17 fathoms water.
The Tortugas are situated N. 14^ W., true, about 30 leagues from the nearest part
of Cuba the table land of Mariel, and 14 leagues from the westernmost of,ihe Florida
Keys. The S. W. key, which, though one ofthe smallest, is the most material to be
known^Jie.s, according to Gauldt, in hit. 24° 32' 30 ". A reef of coral rocks runs off
it S. "V^. a quarter of a mile, on which the water is discolored.
* Ps-K^y^tl a lightbouM will probably be soon eract«d.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
259
29' 40" N., nnd
n liititiuie 24° 4'
ihe eastern edge
ir ihe edge, and
.^tina; the chart."
ant iVoiii the El-
s of a triangular
centre, the pro-
:iide 2:5° 42' N.,
is a small shoal,
ection tVoni ihe
;r's edge. Both
! to avoid them."
heads excepted,
he Gnlf Strcain,
linps, or belwrcn
ligh water on full
Vater Island at 9
hes ; but much
miles, and fresh
Anguila, or the
as shown in the
'J fathoms water,
the sky indicates
he shelter of the
d, until the wind
Salt Key Bank,
runs with great
another, it is to
upon to he very
ire so, especially
y may be found
rth and south 6
ng covered with
ome rocky spits,
patches of sand,
ry plainly, there
Tortugas Islands
7 fathoms water.
the nearest part
t of,the Florida
t material to be
rocks runs off
If you are bound to the eastward, and meet with a strong easterly gale, which is fre-
quent there in the suiiiin r season, you may safely come to an anchor in 5 or 6 fathoms,
about a quarter of a mile i^f shore under the lee of the Long .SanJy Island to tlie north-
ward of the South-Wesl key. l here is a good anchorage also in several other places,
particularly in a small but snug harbor, near *linsh Key, uliich is entirely sheltered from
the sea by a large reef of rocks, and a tiat shoal within them, about hall' a mile broad;
the bottom is sott clay and mud. 'J'liis harljor is quite smooth, even in a gale of wind,
and ill case of necessity a vesst-l might easily be hove down there, as there are 3 fathoms
water close to the bank. There is no drinkable water to be got on any of the Tortu-
gas, except on the northernmost island ; nor is there any (ire wood, except a few bushes,
which it were a pity to cut down, as they serve to distinguish the keys at a distance ; but
the 'i'ortuias abound with variety of sea birds, turtle, and excellent fish. There is a
broad channel to the eastward of the Tortugas, from ]() to 17 (aihoms depth, but it is by
no means advisable to be attempted, unless you can see the Toriugas distinctly, and keep
within 2 ur 3 leagues of the easiermiiost island, as there is a coral bank of 12 feet water
at the distance of 5 leagues ; and further eastward towards Cayo Marquesc, a very dan-
gerous and extensive bank of quicksand, on every part of which you have no more than
4 or 5 teet water. It is of a remarkaiile white color, especially all along the north edge,
and may easily be seen and avoided in the day time.
The tide between the Tortugas and Cayo Marquese sets variably through to the north-
ward, and ebbs to the E. S. K. about ."} or 3 1 feet by the shore.
Eighteen miles to the eastward of the eastern Tortugas, the General Florida Reef be-
gins, between which there is a good channel of 4 fathoms water ; but you must take
care of a coral reef of 12 feet, which lies 1 1 miles from the Tortugas, on which the ship
Rebecca, of \ew York, lost part of her cargo in 1820. To go through this channel,
you must keiep the easternmost Tortuga in sight otf deck, so as to pass at 2 or 3 leagues
from them.
The proximity of the Florida Reef is shown dearly in the day time by the whiteness
of the water, so that there can be no danger in drawing in with it ; but if safe by day, it
is not so by night, nor in bad weather, when you should carefully avoid it, and be sure to
keep the lead going, by which means you can avoid danger at the distance of two miles
from the edges of tiie keys or reel's.
In passing the promontory of Florida it is not this reef alone winch you see, but an in-
nuiusrable quantity of keys and islands, raised upon a li ink north of it.
BANKS AND COAST OF FLORIDA.— Twenty miles to the eastward of the
easternmost Tortuga, is jilaced *he west edge of a bank, called the Marques Bank, and
13 miles farther east are placed, on this bank, the key called Marques Key, which is the
westerrtmost of a group, of which the northernmost is called Boca Grande Key; thi»
key is ths largest of the group, and is ne.ir six miles east and west. About one mile to
the e;istward of this key the first bmk ends, whose eastern edge runs about north ^ptd
south. The first bank is separated t'roin the following by a channel of two miles wide,
with 10 or 12 feet water, sandy bottom. This channel is called Boca Grande, but no
min wh) is not well acquainted, should ever attemi)! to take the channel, as therftiirt
some s'loals in it. '■
The second bank, called the Mangrove Islands, is like the first, upon which is rafMd
a portion of islands, of which the three southernmost have white sandy beaches. This
second bank m »y be viewed as distinct from the following, although they ate utiited'oa
their northern part by an isthmus of half a mile wide ; otherwise they are Bepartlted by
a channel of 1 mile iii breadth, which contains from 10 fvet to 12 fathoms !^ater, low tide.
The third bank is that of fl^y West and the Pine Islands, at tb^l^esttti^ part of which
it is called by the former, and at the eastern by the latter name.
The first island on its we^tprii edge, is Key West, which lies E. by N. and W. ky S. 6
miles in length, N. an I S. 2 inili's in breadth, and about 5() miles from the main land of
Florida, and its southern coast is very sandy. This island is covered with ti^^es, espe-
* On Bush Key (Garden Kov) one of the Dry Tortugas, is a rghthousc elevated 70 feet abovo
the level of the sea, showing n fixed light, and cnn bo i^cen ic/n-n a teasel is on Bhore, and is with-
out doubt the worst kept light on the coast. It can be nppranched wj^lhin 3 miles on the west, south,
and east sides, but on the north you sh.mkl keep at the disianro of 6 miles.
t A lightlijuseis built on Key West, containing a fixed light, and'u number of buoyS Ure placed,
viz. :
A white buov. showing 3 feet above the water, and on the reef, in 26 feet water, bearing from the
lighth.T.ise on Whiiehead Po'i" S. S. E., aad fro'.ii tho lig!it',i )tHe on SAnd Key, E. by N. ^ N.
A white buoy, showing 3 it above wa'er, moored in 27 or 28 feet, and bearing S. S. W. J W.
from the lighthouse on Whitehead Point, [Key West,] near the dry rocks which 1m to tho woat of
Band Ksf, to show the watt choaaal into Key West.
"^gtf^xiumr^
260
iJLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
cinlly on its western fart, in which llieve is a secure ancliorago, with a chatinel of 4,1 fa-
thoms to enter it, and 12.\ falhouis within, well sheltered. "^^1 o enter this channel jou
must observe the following directions, viz. : — In running along the (inlf J^ireani vou
inust not attempt to pass the reef, which is about six miles from the island, until yoti
bring Whitehead Point Lighthouse, which is on (he S. W. point of the ishnd, and which
exhibits a fixed light, to bear N. N. VV. ; then steer for the harbor, which lies at the
N. W. point, leaving *8and Key Liehthouse, wliich exhibits a revolving light, on yonr
larboard hand, as ^ou cross the reef, and taking caie to give Whileheaii Point a l.erth
ftf one mile oh account of a reef that makes olf from it. 'J'he lighthouse on Sand Key
bears from Key West Lighthouse S. S. W. nine miles distant. After you pass the reef
(at the inner edge of whith a buoy has been placed, as before mentioned,; haul up for
the flag-stalf. You will have 3^ to 4 fathoms water crossing the reef, and then from 6
to 7 fathoms until you enter the harbor, where you may anchor with jierfect safety.
There is a powerfulHide here, rising and falling about 4 to 5 feet, and setting alternaieiy
N. K. and S. W.
There is a passage through Key West from Florida Stream, into the Bay of Mexico,
for vessels drawing \2 feet, at low water. This passage is about 6 miles in extent, and
Vessels by passing through it, save the danger and delay of going round the Dry Tcrtu-
gas, which area grc ip of ten distinct islands orkeys, lying olf the west coast of East Flo-
rida, low, some covered with mangroves, surrounded with reefs and sand banks, extend-
ing N. E. and S. W. 10 or 11 miles, and Ironi east to west 8 miles, and may It seen at
the distance of 4 leagues. Good pilots can be obtained at Key West to carry vess.el9
through. The harbor is large and commodious, admitting vessels of the largest class,
where they are jjiotected from all winds within 'JOO yards of the N. W. joint of the isl-
anrl, and several ponds of fresh water, which for nine months in the year produce excel-
lent water.
From Key West eastward for 24 miles, there are nothing but low mangrove islands,
in whose channels nothing but canoes can pass. This third batik terminates at fBahia
Honda, and the islands to the eastward are somewhat larger, and covered with pine-
trees, but are low and drowned like the others, and their channels are navigable only for
boats. Of the whole of these islands there is but one, which is 13 miles from Key West,
Which, although small, is of tolerable height, is rough and covered with trees, and in
whatever direction you see it. appears in the forin of a saddle.
The next bank is called Bahia Honda, separated from the last by a channel of half a mile
wide, whicli channel is called Bahia Honda, and in which there is anchorage in 3 and 3\
fathorhs. This channel is easily known, because on its western part, and on (he very east-
i»rn pai't of the last brtnk of Key West and Pine Islands, there are three small islands, and
on its eastern |)art, upon this fourth bank of Bahia Honda, there is one called Palm Is-
land, which is large and has a sandy beach, and is remarkabli? by the many high palm trees
with which it is covered, and are the first you see coming from the westward. This bank
bf Bahia Honda has but few keys, and extends E. about four leagues.
From the foui'th the fifth follows, called Key Vacas, or Cow Keys, extending to the
Eastward about 5 leagues, u}ion which bank*a group called by the same name, is raised,
the easternmost of which is called Dutch Key. or Cayo Holandes; between this Key and
Key Bivoras is one league. This Key is remarkable by its white sandy beach, and by a
tolerable higli hill covered with trees, which is on its western part.
tJoticerining the whole of the channel to the westward of the Cow Keys, it may be ne-
cessary to state the following remarks, namely, that you will have tluee fathoms water all
the way within a mile of the keys, and will always find the deepest water nearest to the reef.
That the usual method navigating between the reef and the keys, is, to proceed in the day-
time, and lie at anchor in the night ; and that should Vou be obliged to anchor w here
there is any coral, it will sometimes be necessary to buoy up you'- cable to prevent its
being rubbed.
From the eastern extreme of Key Bivoras to the westernmost part of Old Matccumbe,
isSV miles. Old Matecuinbe is 4 miles long'in the direction of N. E. and S. W. and its
1^. E- point is covered by some very high trees, appearing like table-land. On the north
«xid of Ol(,l Matecuinbe is a natural well, in a rock, containing excellent water.
One noile east of Old Mafecumbe, lies Indian Key, to the eastward of which there is a
cj^nnnel funning to the northward, with 10 and 12 feet water, where by doubling the N.
E. ppiot of Old Matecunjbe, you may anchor, sheltered from all winds. This channel is
• Sa'mi Key L'ghthou?e is erected off the coast of Florida, nenr Key West. The lantern is ele-
vated 7% f«et above the level of the sea, and shows a revolving light, which revolves once in 54
i^acjond.?.!!'.. .
t OiTCDibia Honda a bucq^ is placed, in 27 fbct water, bearing north, when Loce Key Beacon will
b€ar.W.S.W.J^ W.
easily discov
serve as an e
Two miles
same directi
E. part ther
and N. E. o
of tlie same
Long Island,
N. E.fion
channel. ^
of Hhi( h the
one ol" the an
Tavernier lie
and the land
The coast
most dangeic
by E. and N.
last is called
moderate size
from this cap
The shores ol
distance ; this
of great bcnel
narrow, and s
widen from th
from which, a
but as the soui
run with care.
From Cajie
Smyrna, whicl
you may, witl
Seven lengu
vessels of very
entrance there
and the main :
at 7h. 15m. 'J
have 8 fathoms
From Matai]
the whole lengl
can see this isl
Lighthouse, si:
see it but at a j
of St. Au"uslii
FroDi t^ie foi
in getting fresh
of fire wood up
just within the
of about lOOya
of a rocky bott-
receive rain wa
The whole ol
soundinii which
known by the i
known in the wl
east of the merii
* A Floating L
distant 7 miles, fn
14fiulionis water]
t Key Biscnynn
elevated 70 feet n
t A White Buoi
Key bears from it
$ It is extremel;
MK
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOTi
261
nf 4) fa-
iitiel jou
eani you
until you
i:il which
es at tlie
, on your
It a I.eiih
ianil Key
s the reef
ul up (or
'II lioni 6
ct sal'ety.
Uernately
f Mexico.
<tent, and
ry Toriu-
tast Flo-
3, exlend-
Lt seen at
ry vpsseb
gisst class,
of the isl-
uce excel-
ve islands,
at fBahia
with pine-
le only for
'iey West,
ses, and in
[half a mile
3 and 3^-
very east-
ands, and
Palm Is-
ahn trees
'his bank
ing to the
is raised,
is Key and
and by a
lay be ne-
water all
o the reef.
n the day-
\or where
irevent its
tecumbe,
W. and its
the north
there is a
na; the N.
channel is
tern is e!e.
once in 54
Beacon will
easily discovered by the white shoals of only 2 ot 3 feet, bordering both sides of it, which
serve as an excellent beacon.
Twi) miles N. E. of Old iMaleeunibe, you will fmd Little IMatecunibe, which in this
same direction has 4 miles in lenifth : this key is covered with high trees. OH' its N.
E. part there L a small mangrove island, sei)aratcd by a chaiuiel of half a mile wide,
and .\. E. of the last, there is another of tolerable size, separated by another channel
of ilie same breadth. This is also separated by another channel, like the others, from
Long Island.
N. E. iVom Long Island lies »Key Largo, separated like the others by a small n.nrrow
Ik vM channel. Nearly east from this channel, U mile, lies Key Tavernier, to the northward
f M qj- ^vhieh there is excellent anchorage for vessels drawing not over 8 feet water, and is
one of the anchorages much frequented by the fishermen. About N. E. by N. from Key
I Tavernier lies the Key Melchor Kodrigues, which is an island of tolerable extension,
• if and the land so spongy that the roots of the trees are discovered.
t The coast runs 1'roin Melchor Rodrigues to Key Largo. Off this Key lies that
: most dangerous reef called Carysfort's, (which appears like main land) N. N. E., N.
by E. and N. on which last course there are various keys for some distance, of which the
hist is called fKey Hiscayno; a little to the northward of this key there is an island of
moderate size, olV the main land, the eastern point of which is called J Cape Florida;
i from this cape to the norlhward, it is clear ot keys and reels, and is all low and drowned.
The shores of this coast are lined with a bank of regular soundings, which run off a good
distance ; this regularity of soundings extends from Cape Florida to Cape Canaveral, and is
of great benolil to navigators, exce|)t in about the lat. of 26'^ 30' N. where the soundings
narrow, and scarcely extend two miles Iroin the coast. From 26'^ 3^' the soundings
widen from the coast, and the whole is very clean, with the exception of Cape Canaveral,
from which, at a long distance, you will find upon the same soundings various shoals;
but as the soundings run farther out to sea than these shoals, he who navigates here must
run with care, and have his lead at hand.
From Cape Canaveral the coast runs N. W. by N. 2fi leagues, to the entrance of New
Smyrna, which is barred, and only fir for boats and launches ; the coast is very clean, aud
you may, without dancer, keep within two miles of it.
Seven leagues N. 25° W. from New Smyrna, is the entrance of Matanzas, but only
vessels of very light draft can enter it: this bar has 8 feet, at high water. From this
entrance there is an island navigation to St. Augustine, formed by the island of St.Anastasiix
and the main : the tide rises 4 feet at spring tides, and it is high water at full and change
at7h. l.')m. The whole of this piece of coast is equally clean with the arlterior. You
have 8 fathoms one league from the land.
From Matanzas to St. Augustine is 12 miles, and the island of St. Anastasia extends
the whole length ; you may keep along it at two miles distance, in 5 and 6 fathoms. Yon
can see this island from 15 fatlioms, as it is pretty high, and also distinguished by the
Lighthouse, showing a fixed light; the coast to the northward is very loW, and you cnn
see it but at a short distance, so that it makes a good r^.ark to know if you are N. or S.
of St. Augustine. i
From t'le foregoing observations it clearly appears that thel'6 can be no great difficltlty
in getting fresh water on most of the islau;l.> ; and except the Tortugas, there is pleiMy
of firewood upon the whole of them. With respect to water, it may be observed that
just within the sandy beach, the isjnnds are generally bordered with mangrove swamps,
of about 100 yards broad ; beyond these swamps the ground rises higher, and is generally
ofa rocky bottom, where you will often find fresh water ponds or natural tanks, which
receive rain water. ^-, \
SOUNDINGS OFF FLORIDA.
The whole of the coast from Cape St. Bias, as after mentioned, sends off a bank of
soundinu; which stretches a long distance frogn the land, and these soundings arc generally
known by the name of Tortugas soundings, a«d are so clean iliat other danger is not
known in the whole of it than a spot or knoll of sand in lat. 28° 35', and lies about 12 miles
east of the meridian of St. Blas.§ This knoll has but 3 feet oi) it, and so steep,Hhat from
> 1 1
* A Floating Light is placed off Key Larfro, bearing from the highest land on the Key |3. by S.
distant 7 miles, from the elbow of Cnrvsfort Reef N. i E. distant 3 to 4 miles. The outer Ifeef (say
14 fiuhonis water) bears E. distant SJ miles. Lot. 25° G' N. long. 80° 28' W.
t Key Biscnyno lies a little to the southward of Cape Florida. On it is a lighthouse, ttflS lantern
elevated 70 feet above the level of the sea, and exhibits a fi.\ed light.
} A White Buoy, showing three feet above water, is placed on a reef neii' Cape Florida V S'^Idter's
Key bears from it W.by N. and Saunder's Hat bears S.S. W.
§ It is extremely doubtful whether this knoll exists.
•up*
2Q2
BLUrrS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
100 fjithoms you will be upon it, an) is prol)nbiy what was callerl in ancient charts, Prov-
idence IsiaiiiJ. The whole ofthese sounoinga are very equal, diniinishin,!^ graJually to-
waiili file shore.
When you enter on these soiindin'j;^, witiiout a sure knowledge of the latitude, and in
parallels near tiie Torluiias, it is necessary to run carel'iilly to rjetsoutidin ;son itsedire, and
not jjet into less than 40 or ijo Catlioms, whicli i-i a depth to keep clear of (he Torluyas,
which ii' in ;}() fathoms ; that is, if they did not exist the regular souiidmss of tlie hank
woiild Iv 30 fathoms where they are placed ; on the western part of these keys, the sound-
ings are steep.
Vou should tal^e the same prec-aution when entetini; on souiidini^s in parallels north of
tlie Tortujjas. Vou should vMn: this sauie p>eeauiion wlien navigatinir to the soiith\MU(|,
that you may leave soundings with salety off its southern edge ; so that what is said is
sufilieient to liberate you I'rom all danger offered by the 'J'ortngas.
On the edges of this bank the waters run lively to the southward, so tliat when nav-
igating tVom tlie westward, with intention of sounding on its odj^e, tlie ship vtill be rctardtd
by the wind, which fixes itself at E. N. E. or east ; but when for two days you experience
a difference of latitude to the soutliward, of '20 mde.s more than aceount, you miy be
sure that you are in tht vicinity of soundings, in which case you may sii|)pnse yourself
in the meridian of the edge, and calculate an error if not exceeding30 miles, and thence
take your route with security.
FLORIDA UKEF— To the eastward of the Tortugas, atid at the distance of 17
miles, the Florida Reef commences. Its breadth i*' aliout three miles, and it preserves
the same, or nearly the same breadth, as far as the eastern meridii>n of Boca CWande,
and thus far has, at least, 3 fathoms water over it. You can cross this portion of the
reef with any ship of Id feet draught; but you should ever rememS^er., that over White
Shoals you always endanger tlu! ship if she is large, especially if the weather is thick,
when the bottom does not show itself clearly. You may in such weather soon encoun-
ter a coral shoal of only one fathom, or even less; so that when we say, that the least
water is 3 fathoms on this portion of the reef, it is because it is so generally, and that the
inequalities found on the other parts of the same reef to the eastward, are not found here
on this portion of it.
On Bush (or Garden Key) one of the Dry 'i ortugas, is a lighthouse, elevated 70 feet
above the level of the sea, showing a fixed light, composed of 15 reflecting lamps, and
can be seen at the distance of 18 miles. it can be approaclied within 3 miles on the
west, south, and east sides, but on the north side you should keep at a distance of at least
6 miles.
From the eastern meridian of Boca Grande the navigation is safe, till within 4^ miles
of Sand Key, on which is a lighthouse, showing a revolving light, bearing S. S. W.
from Key West Light, distant 9 miles; 4 miles from Sand Key, W. ^ S., on the outer
edge of the reer,-lies a group of dry rock:., and N. E. by E. from these rocks, is another
group of dry rocks, bearing north from San:l Key, and between them in the same di-
re<:tion, are two or three shoals with only y feet on them. One and a half mile cast
from Sand Key is another group of dry rocks, on a hank which extends 4 miles east
from the Sand Key, on which there are from 2 to 3 V fathom < water. Six miles E.
by N. J N. from Sand Key, is a coral shoal, with 3 fathoms on it, between which and
Sacd Key lies the Eastern Channel into Key West, (see index.) From this shoal the
r«e^Ieat]9 E. N. E. and is very dangerous, being full of coral rocks, on which there is as
little as 10 feet water, till you come up with Looe Key, on which is a beacon with a red
ball on the top. OiFLooe Key the bank is very steep. Sixteen miles from Looe Key
lies Sombrero, which is the easternmost key on the reef. To the eastward of this key
is very dangerous, being cut up by coral rocks, with channels which should only be at-
tempted through necessity, and in day-light, as nothing is so useful in the navigation of
this reef a? p good lookout. S. S. W. to S. by W. 6} luiles distant from Datch Key,
(the easternmost jifGow Keys) are two groups of dry rocks. South 41 miles from the
<pest end of Old Matacumbe'is a coral bank, with only 8 feet on it. S. E. by E. 4 ' miles
from the easteri^'cnd of Old iVIatacumbe is another shoal, with only 2 feet, called Alli-
gator Shoal, from the circumstance of the U. S. schooner .Alligator being lost on it, and
on whicithe ship Sparmo was also lost. Between lat. 24° 51' and Key Tavernier,
which is in lat. 24° 56', lies the great inlet of the Florida Reef. From tiiis inlet the
reef takes a sudden ben^, and makes what is called *Carysfort lleef,'on which the cur-
rent sits very strong. ^From this tbe reef trends N. N. E. till up with Cape Florida,
passing; Key Biscayngfon which is a lighthouse showing a fixed light.
., -1 j£. _
• A floatiDglight id moored on CarJ'sfort Reef, bearing E. by S. 7 miles distant from the highest
land on Key .Largo. From the elbow of the reef she bears N. h £. from 3 to 4 miles distant, th»
•ttttr reef [aafia 14 fJatboma water] bearing east, distant 2^ miles.
"^1
it chnrt<i, Prov-
i;^ gi'iulua'.lv tu-
l;ititude, ami in
on Itseil'^e, and
if lilt Toruiiias,
n^s of the bunk
iC'js, the sound-
lanillels north of ^
) the soiith«;!nl,
t what is said Is
that when nav-
) uill be retarded
1 von ex[)erience
lilt, you iniy be
ni)pnse yourself
lies, and thence
distance of 17
and it preseivps
f Boca Cfi-.uide,
;s portion of the
that over White
iveathcr is thick,
er soon encoun-
V, that the least
illy, and that the
e not found here
, elevated 70 feet
ning lamps, and
n 3 niiles on the
stance of at least
within 4*7 miles
earing S. S. W.
S., on the outer
ocks, is another
n the same di-
a half mile east
ds 4 miles east
Six miles E.
ween which and
in this shoal the
hich there is as
aeon with a red
rom Looe Key
ward of this key
)uld only be at-
e navigation of
om Datch Key,
miles from the
-:.by E. 4' miles
cot,' called Alii-
g lost on it, and
Key Tavernier,
m tliis inlet the
which the cur-
1 Cape Florida,
11
from the higliest
miles dlstaat, ths
BLUNTS AMERICAN CO F PILOT.
2G3
CARYSFORT REEF, inside of whirh there i.* a light ship stationed, ns drscrihed
before, is the most dangerous reef on the whole coast, the south extremity of which is in
lat. i.'i^ 59' iN., lies iminediaiely oil" Sound Point. Mr. (laul says, " it is on this reef,
which isveiy extensive, its north part lying opposite Angel Fish Creek, that almost every
vessel ti.at is cast away, meets her fate. It is called Carysfort Reef, iVom his Majesty's
ship of that name having been run there by the pilot on the 'j;{d of October, 1770. She
was brought off by the skill and diligence of the master, Mr. Hunter, and is the first ves-
sel known to have got clear."
^J'liat part of the reef on which the Carysfort ran aground is very uneven, having be-
tween some of the ])atches .3 or 4 fathoms water. Upon one of the patches a ship laden
witii inahijgany ran agiiiund the same night with the Carysfort. but 3 miles without her.
It heiiit: low water when the nieirhant ship ran aground by lighting her she got ofl' at
high water. And «e would just hint to every one who passes along this coast, that, on
scciiii; a light to the westward, it behoves him to look out for breakers, if he stands in
for that quarter.
In latitude 1'5^ ."5")' N. according to Mr. Bishop, his Majesty's shipFowey, after losing
nil her anchors, beat over the reef in 3 fathoms water, and when within it, drifted five
le;iy;nps to the northward i;i 5 or 6 fathoms water ; and was afraid of drifting out in the
Florida stream.
The FOWEY ROCKS, lie at the north end of the reef, and are partly dry. The
eastern edge of these rocks lies about 0 miles to the eastward of Kay Biscayno : they
have many bad bars within them. Key Biscayno hath also a bank lying oft" from its east
side.
Theie are several openings, oi in and outlets, over this reef; all of which are safe com-
muiiicaiions between the liawke Channel and Florida Stream, having a depth of no less
than 18 feet water. By placing: a boat on the reef at those entrances, it will always point
them out in such a manner, that you may be able to enter, safely, any one of them in
moderate weather, when want of iresh water, contrary wind, or any other cause, renders
this shelter necessary. Two of these inlets, however, require a little more to be said of
them; those are (ireat Inlet and Spencer's Inlet.
Great Inlet, in 24"' 50' 30 " latitude, has a knoll of dry rocks on the south-cast point of
the reef, directly on the edge of the channel, whereby it is easily knov.n. Here your
eye must be your guiile : the land may also help a little, as the two small mangrove keys,
Tabano and Rodrigucs, show themselves plainly enough in the west.
Spencer's Inlet, in latitude 24'' 40', is opposite to Old Matacumbe, and above 6 miles
wide: the eye must be your guide here, as well as in the ibrmer, but there are no such
visible marks.
The soundings in both are as marked in the chart ; and to any person who knows that
in a gale, by reason of a reverting current, anchorage is full as safe under a reef as
under land, we need not enlarge much about the utility and knowledge of these channels^
much le?s to a man who is either in want of water, or who, upon falling in with these
shoals, and thinks himself in danger, has courage enough not to despair. At »he otbt|!
inlets, the land appears so much alike, that it requires years of experience to know
Directions for failing from the Eastward tlirovgh the Hawke Chftnnd,
Key Biscfl- no, on which there is a lighthouse containing a fixed light, lies within, trad
forms the w,.-st side of the northern entran'.'e of the channel or passage between the
Florida Keys, or Martyrs, on the west and north side, and the Florida Reefs on the east
and south side, called Hawke Channel. The coast for 4 or 6 leagfteis to the northward
of the key, has foul ground, and the sea breaking on it has a frightfal appearance, but
there is no where less than 3 fathoms ; but, by keeping off 5 or 6 miles from shore, you
will find generally 5 or 6 fathoms, fine sandy bottom : and when you approach the end
of the Reef, you may haul in towards Key Biscayno, observing to give the Reef a good
berth without you, on account of several bad sand bars on its inner edge. You will not
find less than 3" fathoms any where within, till you come abreast of the ^uth end of the
key, where there is a small bank of eleven feet only; but be cireful to give. the key a
good berth, as a large flat stretches from it. '»
You then steer to the eastward of south, and pass to the eastward of the shallow bank
that surrounds Oswald Keys, when the course will be more westerly, by the edge of the
bank. The general rule to sail along through the channel, froiji tlie Soldier's Keys to
the southward, is, to have a careful man at the mast-head, to lopk out; he will see all
the heads and other shoals, in a clear day, at least a mile off. Thus, making the- eye
your pilot, came no nearer to the Soldier's Keys than 12 feet, and no farther oiT to the
eastward of them than 18 feet. ^
About a mile E . S. E . from Saunder'f^ut, lies a small round bank, with ooty 9 feet wat«r
^J
''^•Bii^^jri-siftsf*^.
264
BLUl^T^S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
on if ; frpm this RInck spot to CfPsar'H Creek, there nre several sunken headr, nnd the bar
of that creek readies a great way out. Right abreast of this spot, anil northward of the
bar, is a very line andiorage of ii'Jleet water, close to the back ol the Reef, which niakes
the Inlet.
From Sauniler's Cut to Saiinder's Point there are only 11 feet of water to be dependpij
on ; thnt is, if you keep in tiiat \r,\n of tlie channel which is clearest of rocks, you niny
find deeper water, by soinj; out farther towards ihc Reef; but the care necessary to b«;
taken in order to avoid tlie heads is itieonceivable.
When you are clear to the southward of An<:;el Fish Creek, tlip same rule of keejiins;
between 18 and \2 feet in the ehannel is to be observed ; but after all that can be said, a
careful inspection of the chart, together with a comparison of it, with the eourse of the
land you sail by, and especially a good look out, will constitute you a better pilot, than
any direction that can lie given for this navigation. The course froiii Angel Kish Creek
to the north part of Sound Point, is S. by W. | W. and the iistance is 5 leagues.
Sound Point is the only spot that may be said to form a true promontory, from the
spring in the ro( k.
From the north end of Sound Point to Rodrigues Key, the course and distance are S.
AV. ^ S. 7.1 miles. There is a good harbor for small craft off the N. W. part of the Key,
formed by a reef runtiing oif its N. E. point ; and another good place for shelter to the
S. W. of it; but neither has a greater depth than 9 feet at low water. Tavernier's Key,
orTabano, is only a large thicket of mangroves, without any dry soil on it, and ailorils
only some aquatic birds and their eggs.
From abreast of Sound Point to abreast of Tabano, the course is S. W. h S. and the
distance is 3 leagues. From Tabano, the direction of the coast alters to S. W. and to
the east end of New Matacumbe, the distance is 7 miles. New Matacunibe has nothing
remarkable, except a well of good fresh water on the east end : but that being known to
few, the island is little frequented. Off its S. W. en<l lies a small drowned mangrove
island, called Umbrella Key ; a channel 10 feet deep runs in to the south-westward of it,
and extends up to the larger island; but there bein^ nothing worthy of notice on this
key, it is very seldom visited. In coming this way from Tabano, the channel is in gene-
ral deeper than before ; hut the same rule for keeping without 12 and within 18 feet, still
holds good ; but observe that directly abreast of New Matacumbe, within a mile and a
half to the eastward of the land, are several dangerous sunken heads, called the Hen
and Chickens, which require particular attention.
The next to the south-westward, is the island of Old Matacumbe, remarHable for being
the most convenient, and best watering place on all this coast. On its east end are five
wells in the solid rock, which appear to be natural chasms, yielding excellent water in
abundance; and some ponds near them likewise afi'ord some; insomuch, that in a wet
jKason, all the east end of the key is overflown, and water enough may bo had to supply
9 whole fleet. There are likewise some ponds and wells at the west end, but the water
Is of a irinch inferior quality. This island was one of the last habitations of the In-
dians of the Coloosa nation. About a mile from its N. E. end, on the extremity of a
jrC5f, lies the small bushy gravelly key, called Indian Key, which is the leading mark for
0Dd'ng the watering place on Old Matacumbe. Run to about a cable's length off the
east side of the key, and the channel will be easily distinguished by your eye, as before
said. Observe that the tides being very rapid, require particular attention, in going in
orottt; aod that the channel is very narrow, having only just room enough for a srnall
vessel to turn to windward.
From the south-west end of Old Matacumbe to the west end of Cayo Bivoras, or Vi-
per Key, the coufie and distance are S. W. by W. \ W. 7 miles; the depth of water
is frona 16 to 18 feet, sqindy bottom ; but you must be careful to give the Bivoras a berth
pf at least a inile and a half. From abreast of the west end of Bivoras S. W. by W. ^
W. 11 or 12 miles, brings you to a contraction of Hawke Channel, between the Outer
Reef and Cayos de Vacas; your deptli is generally 18 feet, the bottom is sandy, and a
broad bank rtins off from the Vacas Islands. At this contraction of the channel the
course must be altered W. S. W. | W. going through the like depth of water for 5
miles. In running this last distance, care must be taken to avoid the shoals lying off the
S. W. part of Cayos de Vacas, heretofore described.
From the west end of Cayos de Vacas to Cabbage Tree Island, or Bahia Honda, the
course and distance are W. S. W. I W. 10 luilcs. In this run you will find 3 fathoms
Wfttef tdt along within a mile of the keys, the deepest water being nearest to the reef.
Hence to the west end of Cayo Hueso, or Key West, the course and distance are W. S.
\V. 31 miles, the depth of water from 17 to 23 feet. Key West is about 5,^ miles in
length, having a shallow bank before it, which extends close round its west end, as has al-
ready been said, and near which end is a well of ordinary water. All these keys have
pia^tj Qf veoaioB^^aad in some of them hone; is tb uiuL From abrea&t of Key West, a
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
2G5
nnfl the bar
iw;u(l of the
fliich makes
be (leppiidpfi
ks, \(>it may
cssiiry to be
e of keeping
im be siiid, a
ourse of the
[•r pilot, than
1 Kish Creek
aj^nes.
ry, from the
stance are S.
t of the Key,
shelter to the
ernier's Key,
t, and alforils
, ^ S. and the.
8'. W. and to
e has nothing
iing known to
led mangrove
estward of it,
notice on this
nel is in gene-
in 18 feet", still
1 a mile and a
:alled the Hen
able for being
end are five
ent water in
that in a wet
lad to supply
but the water
ons of the In-
xtremity of a
ing mark for
ength off the
ye, as before
, in going in
gh for a small
iivoras, or Vi-
i>pth of water
Tivoras a berth
W. by W. i
!en the Outer
sandy, and a
channel the
f water for 5
s lying otf the
a Honda, the
md 3 fathoms
4t to the reef,
nee areW. S.
ut 5.^ miles in
end, as has al-
ese keys have
Key West, a
W. by S. cnnrse, 5 leagues, and W. 8. W. }, W. Wi, leacues, will carry you to the west
end of the ch-mnel, aljreastof the west end of the (iuicksaiids, which extend westward
from Cayo Marques. This bank of iniicksand may be always seen in tlie day time, it
being very white, and therefore may be easily avoided,
TllLl TURK'S. — The tide ebbs and (lowf* here regularly, and the time of high water
on full and change of the moon, at Key West Harbor, is 1»() minutes after 8 o'clock,
Spring tides rise 4 feet H inches, and it is nearly the same every wheie, from tlie Drjr
TortU'^as to the Cayos de Vacas. The tides from ('ayos de Vacas, north-eastwarJ,
rise not quite so high, and the time of high water is earlier. Within the northern en-
trance of Hawke Channel, opposite Soldier's Keys, it is higli water at half an hour after
5 o'clock, and spring tides rise only 'i feet b inches. To the northward of Key Biscay no,
the stream on soundings is much influenced by the wind when it blows fresh ; but with
moderate breezes the ebb sets northward, and the flood southward ; a due attention tp
this will contribute to shorten a j)assnge over soundings to the reef.
Having observed, in the course of long experience, that several masters of vessels, who
had the misfortune to be cast away on the Martyrs, and the coast of Florida, ignorant of
the existence of any settlement at Cape Florida, have attempteil to proceed to the north-
ward in their boats, deprived of every assistunce, I feel it incumbent upon me to inform
such as may hereafter experience a like misfortune, that if they pass to the north side of
Key Biscayno, on which a lighthouse is erected, as before mentioned, they will find the
entrance of Hoca Ratones, through which they can safely go with their boats, and they
will see the houses in front, on the mrtin land.
In case of shipwreck to the northward of J5oca Ratones, at the distance of two miles
therefrom, they will perceive mangroves thinly scattered, from whence the houses may
be seen, and in that situation, oij making signal with fue, or otherwise, they will obtaii>
assistance.
If it should happen to the soutliw ard of New River, they may ))roceed southwardly
along the beach, where they will meet, every four miles, with posts (ixed in the ground,
on which is an inscription in English, French, and Spanish, juibnuing where wells of
fresh water have been purposely dug for relief.
Channel of Florida, hetwncn the Reef and Keys,
The western part of this channel begins with a breadth of 3J or 4 miles, and you will
find in it from riV to 10 fathoms water, sand and mud or ooze, as far as Boca Grande,
from which to Key West Light, it is generally about three miles wide, and its depth Q
and 10 fathoms, fine sand and mud. In this last piece of the channel there are twq
shoals ; the one nearly north and south with the easternmost part of Key Boca Grande,
and the other S. S. W. from the westernmost part of Key West, and both in fhe piiddl^
of the channel.
From these shoals the channel continues with a breadth of four miles as fat as 8an6
boes keys, from which to the eastward, its breadth diminishes, and the reef increases H)
the same proportion, so that the channel is only 1^ mile wide at the distance of 6 miles
westof *Looe Key Beacon, and this is the narrowest part of the channel, but drawing a^
with Looe Key Beacon, the channel begins to widen, so that north and south of Bafa)t|
Houda, it is three miles wide. The depth in these narrows is three fathoroa, ai)f| coJJt
tinuing to the eastward, you augment your depth to 6 fathoms. v "
Frotp Looe Ke'y the channel continues to its end with a breadth of two or thi^ miles,
but its depth varies remarkably, so that as far as ('ow Keys, you have 4 to 6 fathoms, and
from thence to the eastward of it goes on diminishing, and when al^reast of OW Mate-
cumbe, you have but 3 fathoms, and abreast of Key Tobano opJjF 2 and 2| ; besides
which, from Looe Key, the channel has many coral shoals, which although jby day they
offer no risk, (as the dark color shows their place,) yet by night they are yety dangerous ;
and it is absolutely necessary to anchor, and lie by for the night, throughput all p^rts df
this channel.
In Bahia Honda you get excellent water by digging well3, and on the South side of
Cow Keys, about 8 miles from its western end, you again have a fine spring.
These are the only places among the keys, where you can find water from natural
aprings, but there are many natural tanks, where rain water is preserved till CTaporatetl.
On the north side of Cow Keys, and about 6 miles east of the west end, ^oa will find
a natural pond, that never wants water, which is in a valley, distant from the beach about
100 yards, and the lapding is something to the westward of three small mangrove Isl-
ands, called Stirrup's Keys. You may also, at times, find water on the western ex*
treme of Key Vacas (Cow Keys)-^also, in some of the keys in its vicinity, and on
* On Looe Key is a beacon, 30 feet high, on which is a large ball, pupted red.
34
i
266
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Dutch Key, and pcMierally in all those places where the earth is rocky, yon will find wa-
ter, esneciiillv al'tci liiiiiH.
KKY 'WESr.— liriiig the lij^ht to hear N. N. W. and steer for it, and when the
Sand Key Li^iht Ijenrs \V. S. W. you will have jmased tlie reef in about i'l lalhoms w;i.
ter. Run lor Key West Light until within two miles; then steer N. W. tinti! you open
Fleming's Key, wiiich is a mangrove island, in the northern jjart ot the ha;ljor, and run
for it. The best anchorage is in the upper part of the harbor.
N. W. Pamtge belwecn Key West and the Mole Keys, info the Bay of Mexico.
Bring the lisjhthoiise on Key West to bear S. E. and run N. W.. which will carry
you between the batiks in the channel : as you approach the bar there is a small middle
ground with 9 feet water; go «Mther side of it, and cross the bar in IvI feet water. While
on the bar the lighthouse on Key West will bear S. E. by S. about eight miles frotn th«
northern Mole Key, the N. E. side of the bar is broken ground, having only ') leet wai'r
on the knolls; the S. E. side is clear, and soundings regular. When you bring the
west end of the northern Mole Key open with a key bearing S. W. from it, yon have
passed the bar, and the latter direction will enable vessels comingfrom th** xvestward into
Key West Harbor, to enter the channel by running with the above named two islands
open until they have 24 I'athoms, and the light upon Key West bearing S. E. ; then run
for Key West Light, keeping near the bank, which may be distinctly seen.
Norlh West Passage hrUcetn Key West and the Mud Keys, into the Gulf of Mexico.
Y'lye large spar buoys have been Tiioored in the channel leading from the Clulf Stream,
through the harbor of Key West, into the J5ay of Mexico, vessels drawing •).'; leet of
water, and bound to Mobile, I'cnsacola, and New Orleans can, by observing the followint;
directions, pass through the channel with safety, -uid thus avoid the tedious and danger-
ous navigation of the gulf.
It is recommended to masters of vessels to steer from buoy to buoy, keeping close to
them on either hand. They are moored in the deepest water, and can be distinctly seen
from each other. The bearings of the buoys are as follow :
The first buoy at the entrance of the channel, and nearly in the harbor of Key West,
bears from the lighthouse on Key West, by compass, N. W. by W. distant 1 mile.
Second buoy bears from the first buoy N. AV. by N.
Third buoy bears from the second buoy N. W. i N.
Fourth buoy bears from the third buoy , .N. W. \ N.
Fifth buoy on the bar bears from the lighthouse on
Key West N. W. by W.
Vessels requiring pilots can obtain them at Key West, as there is a board of bmnch
pilots I .tablished.
The shoalest water at low water is 10 feet, and at high water \2h feet on the bar.
By a late ordinance of the City Council at Key West, vessels bound through tlie
** North West Passage," to or from ports farther west, stopping at the island to land pas-
illBgers and letters, or to procure supplies, are no longer subject to any charge for pilot-
a'g^, unless a pilot is desired and emi)loyed. Vessels entering the port for the purpose
of thidiog, and taking a pilot, are to pay as t'ollows :
Drawing 5, and not over 12 feet pay 81.50 per foot.
All above I'J, and not over IG feet " xJ.OO "
All over iG, and not over 16 feet " i2.'J5 "
All above 18 feet " i>.50 "
Vessels not spoken until within 3 miles of the light on Whitehead's Point, Key West,
tre exempted from any charge.
CAPE ROMANO is a long, low point with mangrove-trees on it. OfiTthis point liesa
Band bank, which extends off 9 miles S.W. from the point, and has about 3 feet water on it.
The shoal is regular as you approach it. Thirty miles to the N. W. lies the island of j
Sanibel. If you are running for this island, keep in 4^ and 5 fathoms water. At the S.
W. end of this island there is a good harbor with 12 feet water in it, which, if you wish
to enter, give Sanibel Point a berth of 5 miles, as there is a long bank making off from it;
run in for the land in g^ fathoms, and then steer up N. W. till you sliut in the point of 1
the islands, where you can anchor in 12 feet water.
• A lighthouse is ctf-ected on Whitehead's Point, which is the S. W. point of the island of Key ,
West, lat.'84o 29/, ita long. 81° 55^ W. The light is elcvatsd 83 feet 6 inches above the level of
the sea, an^sbows a fixed light.
■IT'
HLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
267
ky, yoii will find wa.
• Bay of Mexico.
the Gulf of Mexico.
ad'sPoint, Key West,
I
I
Thern in n large S]mriisli cvtablisliiiii'iit furllsliing, and you can obtain provisions, wood
aud water.
General description of the Coast from Cape St. Bins to Point Tancha.
CAPE ST. BIjAS. — Cape St. Bias is a low point, which runs to the southward
two miles: iVoni that part where trees end on tliis point, a shoal of sand runs S. S. E.
(our miles, hearini; (Vom S. S. K. to S. S. VV. iVom the poiiif. Various shoals and small
spots of sand, havini; less than ;{ t'athoiiis wafei on thetn, a! lie olV the same point, the
southernmost of which is 17 miles distant ; between these shoals there are 7, 8, and 9
fathoms water.
S. 77^ E. Ki miles from Cajie St. Bias, lies the south point of St. fJeorge's Island,
falle<l Cnpe .St. (ieorfie, lictween which is the main entrance to .St. (Jcorge's Sound and
Apalarhicola Bay; the bay is distant ai)out 12 miles from the entrance into the sound
between .St. Vincent's and .St. (leorse's Islands in a stiais];ht line, but owina; to the ob-
structions in this part of the Sound, vessels are oblijied to bend their course to the east
to reacii Apalachicola Hiver, which increases the distance to IHiiiiies.
Vessels drawing 10 feet water (an anchor in the bay, but only 7J feet can be carried to
the town.
From (Jape .St. (feorfi;es (which is shoal to the sontli) ft)r .5 miles the coast doubles
round to E. N. E. and at the distance of 24 miles from the Cape is the east end of this
island, and the middle entrance into the .Sound : this entrance is formed by the east end of
St. George's and the west end of Doj;; Islands, the distance between the two is 3 miles ;
the channel is contracted between by shoals which make out from the l^w) islands; the
depth of water on the bar is alxmt 14 feet, and the width one third of a mile. The chan-
nel is near Dog Island.
MIDDLE ENTR.\NC;E INTO ST. CEORCE'S SOCND.— For vessels drawing
1'2 feet of water this entnince is to be taken, as you cannot carry into the niain entrance,
so called, which is between the N. W. end of St. (feorjie's Island and St. Vincent's
Island, over 11 feet at hif;h water. The niidiile entrance or passafjje into St. George's
Sound, is between the west en<l of Dop; Island and the east end of St. (teorge's Island,
and is about.'? miles wide: it is rather difficult to find for strangers, as the west end of
Dog Island and the east end of St. (Teorge's Island are both low sand beaches, and there
is a sand beach on the main directly in front of the passage, so that it looks, at 3 or 4
miles distance, like one .;ontinued beach.
After making the passage steer for it, keeping most towards Dog Island, as the chan-
nel is altogether on Dog Island side. Vou will soon see a large green buoy which lies
in the best water on the buoy ; pass close to this buoy on either side, and stand in N. N,
W. along Dog Island Reef, 'vhich can be plainly seen, until the eastern point of George's
Island bears S. W. or S. W. | W., then haul up the sound for the shipping, say aboiit
W. S. W. ; continue on this course until the eastern point of .St. George's Island bears
about E. 2 miles distant, and a black buoy on shore well under St. George's Island,
bears about S. E. i S. half a mile distant, when you may anchor in from 2 to 2^ fathonos.
There is a barrel buoy a short distance outside the green buoy, a black buoy on D^Og
Island Reef, and a white buoy on the eastern extreme of St. George's Island Reef;
these buoys are not to be reliefl on, as they shift their position with every strong breeze ;
they are placed there by the pilots ; the channel being perfectly plain and the reefs Tisible
they would in any case be of little use.
Dog Island is 6 miles long, and trends nearly the same as St. George's; at the east
end is the eastern entrance into St. George's Sound : this entrance offers a depth of 14
feet on the bar, which is above one third of a mile wide; and is within that distance of
the island.
St. George's Sound, from the Eastern to the Middle Pass, affords from 2^ to 3 fathoms
water, but to the westward, towards the Main Entrance, the Sound is much obstructed
by oyster banks, through which, vessels drawing more than 6 feet water cannot shape
their course.
The mean rise of tide 2\ feet.
N. 50° E. from the east end of Dog Island, 7 miles distant, is the S. W. Cape; this
distance is shoal, if we except the channel above mentioned, and to the S. of the Cape
the Shoal extends to the distance of 3 miles.
From the S. W. Cape the coast bends to the northward and after to the eastward, and
forms a large bay, into which the river Apalache is emptied.
This river is shoal, and obstructed at its entrance, and for a long distance off, by many
oyster banks, which are dry at low water ; the tide rises 2i feet.
About eight miles up the river from the bar, is the fort of St. Mark's, situated od a
A
S68
BtUNT*S AMEUICAN fcOAst t»n.Ot.
m
point which forms the i-onlliiciicp <>( the river, f which the eaot ht'nnrli in rnlled St.
Miirk's, iind tlic other VViircaih'r. Tlif^hiial w iter which is loiind in this river in ulna
fomid ill! over lliis l;u7i«' hiiv, iinil ** fi'ct is tlie liesl water in the chiiniicN.
St. M.irli's Kivcr iiltinds t* Icct water at itft month at hinh water, and H miles lower
Hown, good anchorage for vessels ('ra^ving |() I'ect. [Icre aie two bars, one ■'( miles he-
low Kort St. Mark's, called tlie Devil's Klhow, with a depth over it of H feet at hiuh
water; the other, called the Onter liar, H miles from the l-'oit. From this bar to fho
Devil's Klhow the average de|)th is 10 feet ; tiie cliannel takes a sndden turn at the
Devil's KIbovv, and the width is reduced to about 4(1 feet fur a iptarter of a mile. From
the Devil's KIbow to Fort .St. .Mark's, H feel can be carried throngh at higli water. The
place called the .S|)anish Hole, .'S miles within the outer liar, is the hest place to anriior:
the depth is I'J (eet at high water. The outer bar is in some way comiected with tlie
extensive sliallow hanks, which to the east and west obstruct litis part of the coast, and
serve to protect the anchorage within the outer bar, wliich is the oidy shelt(;rfur vesHcIs
drawing Id feet water from the S. \V. Cape to Kspiritu Santo.
From .\palache Hay the coast bends olf to the southward and eastward to the river
Suwannee in V'assasousa Hay, which is 'JM leagues distant frotii the river of Apalache.
Oyster banks obstruct this bay, and the Suwannee camiot he entered at high tide by
Vessels (hawing nuire than .'i feet. From the river Suwannee to tiic soutliward, yoti
lose sight of the land, as only canoes can get nigh enough to discovt-r the keys called
Sabiuiis. Filly miles south of the .Sabinas lies the key Andote, or Anchor Island, and
before you come to It you may discover the coast. The whole of the coast from S. W.
Cape to this Key, is so shoal, that at ten leagues from laiul you have but 5 and b fathoms,
and two leagues you will have from <> tt) 7 feet. Key Andote is distant across from the
tnain hind four miles, and in length about eight miles north and south; it is divided into
three parts, and its south part h:;s good anchorage in ;{ fath(Uiis water.
From Key Anclotcthe coast runs .S. K.by K. lil) miles to the elilrance of Tampa Bay,
orBaliia del Kspiritu Santo. The coast between is clear and deeper tlian the anterior.
At 3 leagues from the land you will have (> fathoms water, and no impediment to your
keeping in with it by tlie lead. ()(f this coast there are various keys, w hich lie, at most,
bniy four miles ftoiil the main.
From Taujpa the coast continues S. Fi. by S. *3'J leagues, to the Hay of .St. Carlos;
all this piece of coast is bordered with keys which lie iboiit four miles olf from the main
land; the wliole is clear with the exception of a sand bar, which runs olf from wiiat is
called Boca Quarazote. which is an opening formed by two of the above mentioned keys,
and is distant from Tampa •,'! miles. On this bar there are 'J fathoms water, and all
along the coast you will have 1 fathoins at ■*> or 0 miles from it, so that there is no danger
ia keeping in with it by the lead.
Carlos Bay is a large entrance made in the coast, in wliich are emptied various rivers,
Vhose mouths are covered by many keys and shoals, whicVi leave between them chan-
nels more or less wide; the northernmost is called Friar (lasjiar, and has C feet water;
tjie next, called BocaOrande, is the deepest, having 14 feet water This bay is only good
fiNf vessels ol 8 feet draught, by the little shelter which it aH'ords in gales in winter; and
•Ijtfaough the holding ground is good, you are obliged to look for the bends of the bay to
fchelter you from the wind which blows. The tide ises two feet, and when the wind is
l»ffjahore) it ruhs with great velocity.
Th* k((iyiwwhose north extreme foriris what is called Boca Cautivo, is the same whose
soutbera extreme forms Boca Cicga, which is the ojiening which said key forms to the
northward, and Sanibal to the soutliward. — This opening extends to Shoal Lagoon, which
communicates by various shoal channels with Bay St. Carlos.
Key Sanibal bas good anchorage on its south part in 2 fathoms, sheltered from all
winds. This anchorage of Sanibal is known by a palm tree, two leagues to the south-
ward of it, and is the only one you see on the w hole coast. To anchor in Sanibal,
it is necessary to run wish care, and the lead in hand, that you may avoid the shoal bot-
toms which run off four niles from .Sanibel, and the keys S. E. of it.
From Sanibal the coast runs S. K. by E. eleven leagues to Point Largo, or Key Ro-
^aU. This piece of coast is clean, having 3 fathoms at two miles from the land. Point
Largo sends out S. and S. W. of it a shoal, which runs from it seven miles, and the coast
bending to the eastward forms a bay of 1-2 feet vater. in which vessels of light draught
may enter and find shelter from winds any way on the northern board.
The 'coast from hence runs S. S. E. twenty-five leagues to I^oint Tancha, which is the
BOUth^mmost promontory of the Peninsula of East Florida.
The whole of thfe doast has regular aud clean soundings, whence the lead is the best
guide.
WEST COAST FLORIDA.—From Sanibel Bell Island up to Prince Edward Isl-
ands, there is, S constaat range of low islands with trees on Boca Grande, \vhich has a
bi.unt'a amkrican coast pii.ot.
269
fooil harbor, witli IH (vet w!it«>r on thn bnr. It' you winli to run into thiit harbor, bring;
th<^ N> NV. pml (o bear N. N. K., Mtirr in lor the |ioiiil, hiiil yon will Hfit ii finrill njukI
i'<l»riil : vou « ill liitvc I nnil .'> t'lUlxiMH wiilir, iuid run svr iht- hank on both <m\*'n ; aboutN^
on«* in;le from tlir point of tluN iHlaiiil, Ntaiidi a lii;{li ImimcIi ot tri-fn ; a littli' to tlii* S. K.
ol' them tliindit livu itcaKrrinit ('alitia^t' 'I'lcts, and lln* poiril ol ihr otlii-r i'<i;ind which
f'irnM I hr harbor is alow wand point. Ilfii' ihric im aniiili<*r SpaniNb (ithinc e<«iablii«h-
nient, and the bay aironit plenty of ri-ili and ovNlrrs : 't'ht' bar li<;s about 'i iinlps I'roni the
rnirunrr, and it in advisable to liccp in .0 latiidinH water till you ^'ct your bi-arinKS<
'I'AAII'AS HAV. — 'i'lif next liaibor to the N, W. is Tanipai* May or Spiriin Santo;
a spar buoy ho |V>et hiizli, with a barrel on it painted whitf and black, iH planted on K(;niunt
Ltland, it inav be Keen before the land.
To enter llie bay, brini; the beaeon to beat K. \ S. by '(inipass, then iiiti ("or it, until
you have Uj fathoms water, whiili will take you over the bar; then Nieer K. \ N. until
the bearun beatN K. by S., and then lollow the norihern bank, whirh can ulwayi* be Keen
williin a rable'tt lenu'li- l^«n lor the beacon lo near a i'al)le's length, and you will have
ID I'alhoniH water, the beacon beariii;; south; then run K. by S. lo 4', or '» I'alhonnt; then
K. N. K. 0 miles, and N. K. to ;t ratlioms, oil' Mangrove I'oint ; then N. to 4 I'uthoni!*,
and .\. K. to the anchorage at (<ail.H(-n'H I'oint,
Thii IJay han suthcient deptii of water lor frigates; for tliere is within it .^ and 6 fa-
thoms water, and althou<<h there is a bar at its entrance, the least depth on it is :\\ fathoms.
The entrance is obstructed by several sand banks, upon which rise sonic inlets; between
these banks there are three channels, nanieil the West, the .South West, and the .South
KuAt. 'I'he two first have plenty of water on iheir bars, fur the first has ,'i| fathoniH. and
the second has •.',' fatlmms. Tlu! cliannels are clear, and lo lake ihein there is no netes-
sity for instructiunni, as the shoals are Uistintttly tieen at hiji^h water, and allow water tiiey
are «lry.
.A lew miles f) the N. W. of Tainpas Bay is Prince Kilward's [slaiiti, tin- wesiern one
of which IS a small round hi^h island; the course of these islands from this to .St.
Mark's, forms a deep shallow hay, the slioal jirroiind runs 7 miles iVoiii the land, and the
bank is nearly up and down, with three fathonis aloii'i the edfje of it.
If you are bound to .St. .Mark's and fall in to tlie S.K.of it, wcnk aloni; this hank, which
will bring you up to the inoulh ol the river, and if yon wisli to run into port .St. Mark's
Harbor, the entrance aH'ords 12 feel water, and you will see, on the N. K. bank, which i.s
nearly dry at low water, a large stake sticking; on it, and tin; tnie on the other side has
three stakes on it. Vou will see a small house, on an island four miles from the mouth
of tiie river, wliich brin;^ to bear N. I)y W. leaviiiu tin; lighthouse (oi your starboard hand,
and that course will cany you up between the two stakes; when you are between the
banks, half way up, you have j^ood ancliorage : From this up to Fort St. Mark's you
can have but 'J feet of water. A pilot can be obtained here at any time. S. S. W. from
St. Mark's Lighthouse, !.'> miles distant, lies tlie South point of .lames' Island, called
the .S. W. Cape; a bay makes in between St. .^lark's entrance and this cape, into which
the River Okonofrisky discharjies itself; this river is slioal at the entrance, and the shore
from the cape to the li2;ht should not he approached nearer than two miles.
A shoal, iiuvini^ three feet water on it, lies F<. by N. from the cape, and the easternmoit
end bears from the lighthouse South.
The coast trends from S. W. (Jape, S. W. ! W. ?,7 miles to Cape St. George, which
is the southernmost point of (ieoi^c's Island ; this island is 'J4 miles long, and forms with
Dog Island, the South side of Gcori^e's Sound. ^IMie east end of Dog Island is S. W.
^ W, 7 miles from the .S. W. Cape, between which is the eastern entrance to St.
George's .Sound. Dog Island is about (j miles in length.
APALACHICOLA BAY.— When the south point of St. George's Island, (which
lies to the southward of Apalaehicola Bay) hears north, two leagues distant, you will be
in 2V fathoms. From tliese hearings and depth of water, steer N. N. W. or N. by W.
until you make the large black buoy,* which can be seen at the distance of 4 miles ; by
keeping the buoy close on board, you have the best water ; the course from the buoy is
due north, until you bring the three tall trees on St. Vincent's Island to bear N. E. then
run for them. The entrance then being fairly «pen, steer for the point of St. George's
Island. f or between the point of that island and .St. Vincent, you will have three fathoms
when over the bar, deepening gradually, and between the islands of St. George's and
St. Vincent, you have ri fathoms when fairly in. When past the point of St. George's
haul to the eastward, and keep from one half to three quarters of a mile distant from
*i.
^
* An island called Flag Island formerly existed at the entrance of this port, but it was washed
Bwav in 183.5 ; the buoy alluded to was placed on a rock.
t On the N. W. point of Geor^re's Island a lighthouse with a fixed light is placed to indicate th*
entrance between George's Island and St. Vinceut's Island in to St. Georges's Sound.
270
'
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PIT^OT.
B '
L
St. George's l-iland. The water will shoal in this course to 2 fathoms, soft bottom, when
you liail better come to anchor and wait for a pilot, which you will obtain by hoisting
the usual signal.
When otr the entrance, in 6 fathoms, no inlet can be discovered between the two
islands, but the place may be known by the bearings of the land. It is a low sand beach,
having a hummock of bushes about one mile from the west point cf St, George's Island,
to the westward of which arc four umbrella trees, the two easternmost standing G or
8 feet apart, at top connected, and at a dist;ii)ce having the appearance of one tree.
To the west of these trees is a hummock of Palmetto trees, which stand nearly on the
extreme west end of St. George's, which are considerably larger than the hummock of
bushes before mentioned; and these, when distant so far that yru cannot see the beach,
that bearing i\, E., appears as separated from the other land, and to form an island by it-
self, but when bearing N. W. appears connected with the Island of St. Vincent, which is
thickly wooded on the eastern end. This hummock is, however, on St. George's.
The south [wint of the Island of St. George's is thickly wooded, and can be discerned
when in 10 t'athoms beaiing N. E.
Should you have afoul wind, and be obliged to turn to tlie windward, keep the Island
of St. George's on board, when fairly to the westward of the south point, the water is
good near the beach, and soundings regular.
|> Directly off the south point of St. George's, there is a dangerous shoal of 2 or 3 leagues
extent.
The Shoal of Cape St. George makes off at least G miles from the south part of the
island, and has not more than 5 or 6 feet of water, perhaps less. The soimdings near
the shoal, on the W, edge, are irregular, from 3 to 4 and 2 fathoms.
Descriplion of the Coast from Cape St. Bias, Westward.
From Cape St. Bias a narrow peninsula or tongue of land extends N. by W. 17 miles,
forming the Bay of St. Joseph. This l)ay is nearly land-locked, and has a width at its
mouth of about 3 miles, and is about 1 ! miles in length. The bar lies west of the north
point of the peninsula about one mile. Within the bar the bay affords from 25 to 3."
feet of water for about 8 miles up the bay, and it is sheltered from all winds. The tide
rises about one foot. This is the next best harbor to Pensacolu on this coast, the depth
on the bar at low tide being 17 feet. The tongue of land that forms this bay is so narrow,
that in some places it is only two cables' length in width There are various breaches in
it in time of the rains, by which the water of the bay unites with the ocean.
To enter this bay, you must coast along the tongue of land in 4 or 5 fathoms, until you
pass a tongue of sand, a little before you come to the mouth, from wlience you steer N.
E. and E. N. E. till within, always coasting the tongne which is the deepest water.
N. W. by N. 10 miles from St. Joseph's Bar is the entrance to the Bay of St. An-
drews ; in this distance the coast should not be approached nearer than 5 miles, on .
account of a shoal that extends the whole distance, called the Middle Ground, which may
be easily discovered by the whiteness of the water. The S. E. extreme of this shoal,
and the above tongue, fortn the entrance to the Bay of St. Joseph.
BAY OF ST. ANDREWS is covered by Crooked and St. Andrews Islands, which
compcehend between them and the Main St. Andrews Sound, which leads into the Bay.
There are three entrances into this bay ; the eastern is through the opening between
Crooked *nd St. Andrews Islands, the depth 3 fathoms on the bar, and the channel which
i OQe-sixth of a mile wide close by the latter island; the distance between the islands is
above two-thirds of a mile. The rniddlo or main entrance is near the western end of St.
Andrews Island ; the depth 21 feet and the channel 200 yards wide. The western en-
trance is about two miles N. W. of the latter ; the depth on the bar 10 feet. This bay
is very htrge, but as yet there can be no motive for ships to call here ; but should you do
it for shelter in bad weather, the bay is said to be shoal, but from the main to the eastern
entrance you have 3 fathoms in the sound, and good shelter under St. Andrews Island.
N. W. by W. from St. Andrews Bay, distant 50 miles, is the entnnce to St. Rosa's
Sound : in the whole of this distance the sliore is bold, and you will have 4 fathoms close
to the land. On this coast the trees are very thick, and close to the shore, where there
. j-e also some red bluffs, and white sand hummocks.
ST. ROSA;'S BAY. — The east point of this bay is known by some bright reddish
colored bluffs, which are upon it. The channel, or mouth of the bay, is very narrow,
and a bar of only 5 or 6 feet impedes its entrance. To enter, steer N. till you pass the
east extreme of the island, whence steer N. W. and anchor as soon as you have shelter.
This bay is of extraordinary length," extending 24 miles to the eastward, with a breadth
of 4 to 6 miles. The best water in it is 3 fathoms, which is only found when you are
E. and W. with the red cliffs at the entrance, about two miles from the bar. The other
part of the bay ia full of shoals end palisadoes, navigable only for boats.
1113, soft bottom, when
ill obtaiu by hoisting
■red between the two
[t is a low sand beach,
)f St. Geoi'2;e's Island,
riimost standins; 6 or
iparancc of one tree,
h stand nearly on the
than the hummock of
cannot see the beach,
0 form an island by it-
St. Vincent, which is
on St. George's.
, and can be discerned
ward, keep the Island
h point, the water is
shoal of 2 or 3 leagues
the south part of the
The soundings near
s.
slicard.
ids N. by W. 17 miles,
and has a width at its
r lies west of the north
affords from 25 to 3?,
1 all winds. The tide
n this coast, the depth
s this bay is so narrow,
re various breaches in
the ocean.
r 5 fathoms, until you
whence you steer N.
le deepest water,
the Bay of St. An-
arer than 5 miles, on.
e Ground, which may
xtreme of this shoal,
idrewB Islands, which
h leads into the Bay.
the opening between
nd the channel which
between the islands is
he western end of St.
ie. The western en-
ar 10 feet. This bay
e ; but should you do
le main to the eastern
St. Andrews Island.
ntr:nce to St. Rosa's
have 4 fathoms close
le shore, where there
some bright reddish
bay, is very narrow,
N. till you pasa the
I as you have shelter,
ward, with a breadth
found when you are
the bar. The other
latfl.
WS:
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\
/.
X
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X
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<v»'
j5^^'
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— I v*< I iwiwiwry-
u
I'ii.IIV.lI /''•! Ilw .llllilli\>ll I, lis/ /'//<//,/'<
' /;■/ //,,■ .iii,,r,,,;i t,,isi /',/„/ .in!'' /•:, I
I'll 1 1 /'</./,
■f'
I. r.i/'/,Ji.:l I'V /:,li,inii,l ^(n-rn/i-W. /I
r.-,7
.^IP^-^
lU.
^"^^r
:"^.?^
■\
i
^
n
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I
-liS'-
•'■ X
BT-UNT S AMKRTCAN COAST PTI.OT.
271
FinmSt. Rosn's Bar to the westeni end of St. Rosa's Isluiid. the distance is 44 miles.
This Ion',' and nnnow island lies about W. bv S. and K. by N. parallel ;o the main, and
covers a sound olilic sanif iiauic ; its (.'leatesf breadth is not more than iiidC a mile: on
it (here are many sand bluH's and sonu' scatlerinii trees, 'i'he sound allords a navigation
lor vessels ol' less drauiiht of water than 4 feet to Pensacola.
PENSACOLA. — The Bay of Pensaeola alFords a good harbor, having, at low wafer,
on the bar, 21 feet. The eastern |)oint of its entrance is called Point Siijuen/.a, and is
the western jtoint of the Island of St. JJosa, on wiiich fortifications are erected, making
it very conspicuous tiVMu the sea. St. i\osa Island extends K. by X. and \V. by S. 14
leajziies, and completely fronts the whole Bay of Pensaeola ; it is so low that the seas,"in
jjaies, wash its tops, and is no where more than one fourth or one third of a mile wide.
Tiiere are some red bluffs on the main coast, wliich are hi<zher than the rest of it, and
one of which, and tht^ Inrijcst of all. is on the eastern side of Pensaeola iJay ; and in or
near the front of the entrance, are three red bluli's adjoininp; eacli otlier, and called tlie
Barancas.
The channel entering Pensaeola Bay is from the south-east, and turns round a mid-
dle irround which projects nearly one mile to the S. W. ot" I'oint .Siaucnza ; it then
bends to the eastward towards the bay. A bar, projectint; ai)out two miles to the south,
and extending from the western end of St. Rosa Island to the main opposite, has at low
tide '21 feet on it. The width of the bar taken iti the direction of the chr.nnel is about
on? mile. The entrance betwec-n St. Kosa's and Foster's Jsland. is about a mile and a
quarter wide. After passint; the bar the entrance! to the bay is between the JJarancas
and Point Siguen/.a. This port wotild be dilTicult to rec^ogni/e, were it not for the light-
house and bluli's, which, consisting of three adjoining each other, cannot be easily mis-
taken.
The interior of the bay aftbrds great depth of w ater and good bottom for anchoring.
However, a considerable extent of its shores are shallow, but at some points a good depth
is found within a short distance of the land, viz. at the Careening (iiound, 18 feet are
to be found at aborft .')0 yards from the shore ; at Tartar's Point, where the Navy Yard
I is, yO feet are found within a few yards of the point and 1-' leet west of it ; at the English
Careening firound, Id feet can be carried close to the shore.
The bar is not the only difficiilly entering Pensaeola, since you meet, when within it,
[the Middle Ground, as previously stated, and although it is decidedly the best harbor in
Ithe Gulf of Mexico, you must observe the directions, and fre(|uently have recourse to
jyour plan of the port, which will give you a correct idea of its configuration.
Vessels coming from the eastward, should keep in 7 fathoms water until the "light-
Ihouse bears by compass N. by W. when they can stand in lor the bar, until in 3i fath-
loms, which is the shoalest water on the bar at low water, with the light bearing N. by W.
Vessels of large draft of water should not attempt to enter in the night, as there is a
J Middle Ground on the east side of the main channel, one mile inside the bar, on which
[there are not more tlian 7 feet water, and the course around it is very circuitous.
Vessels making the land, should keep olf four or five miles, until they make theli^hc-
Ihouse, which cannot be seen until nearly opposite, as the trees on St. Rosa Islanci to
I the east, and on the main land to the west, obscure it from the river. v
To come in over the bar, on which generally there are 4 fathoms, bring the light U^
[bear N. by W. and run directly for it, until over; the bar is about 600 yards acrctfs, ott
[which is a buoy ; soon as over, the water deepens to 3 and f> fathoms, when rv^^vW'.
[until the lighthouse bears N., in order to avoid the 31iddle Ground, when run forltrtu^ "
[within the point of St. Rosa Island ; then haul up east until the west end of Sti" lloMti
[Island bears S. W., when you may anchor in 4 or 5 fathoms water, safe from altwi^)^
Small vessels drawing not more than 14 feet, can bring the light to bear N. f W. aid(
Isteerforit in the night until within half a mile, where they can - anchor with the wiodii^i
Ishoi-e ; but if they have a fair wind, they can steer E. by N. until sheltered by St. Ro»»,,,
[island, where they can anchor in a good harbor until day-light, as it Is everywfaeic i^f^'
Icellent. , : • .. '"'
Vessels coming in or going out on ebb tide should (preserving the necessary deptli <of
[water) keep near the eastern edge of the channel, as the tide runs to the soutfa^weflt.
[across the Caucus Shoal, and the flood sets directly over the middle ground.
Vessels drawing not more than 10 feet water, can pass through a small chanael be-
1 tween the Middle Ground and point of St. Rosa Island.
{I.
'it
* Pensaeola Lighthouse is on an eminence, about 40 feet high, and directly opposite the entrandls"
I over the bar ; the lantern is about 40 feet from its foundation, making an aggregate height of 80 feet
' above the level of the sea ; is about half a mile west of the point of St. Kosa Island. TTie light is
revolving, each revolution one minute ten seconds, is very brilliant, and may be seen at the diatanee
* of from 18 to 20 miles.
L
273
inJ-.\T .S AMKRICAN COAST PILOT.
From Pensarolii Rny the coast tn-iKJs W. by S. to Prnlido Hny, distaiiv 11 tnilt-s; this
bar is siihjccl to ch;\M;;p, and ad'oids but abciit 4 iV-et water, uiid 2S miles to the west-
<warii is tlip hifr atid nilrance ro Mubile liny.
MUlUIiK H\V. — 'I'lie entrance to this ')ay is betwrcn ■*. Mobile Point and tiir eastern
point of Dauphin Island; the distance between them is .'{| miles. 'To the south »d' Dait-
,phin, about (ine mile, is J?iu; Pelican Island, w)iich is barren and of sma'l extent, and
lE. Is. h^. troni the latter island. distar)t .'('; miles, is Little I'elican or Saiul I dand, which
is of but tew yards in extent, and nearly evj'u «ith the water's edi;e. A bank, projeclin;^
to the south ol Dauphin Island and >[obile Point, on which are the above islands, ob-
slructH the entrance to the i)ay ; but, Iiowckm', aHords ihroufih it various channels, tlie
main one havinjj l.j (cet on the' bar at the lowest tide. The interior (dthis ba ■ lias wa-
ter enough for any vessel that can pass over the bar; but on account of a shoai formed
opposite tlie m'>utli of Doi; Kiver, 11 miles south of tlie town, vessels dr.iwin;^ more than
8 or 'J feel cannot, at low tide, ascend the bay lurthe;- up.
Hy following close to the south shore of Dauphin Ishuid, and havinj; Hij: I'elican l^^l-
and on the starl)oavd hand, comina; friurt the westward, vessels drawing 7 teet water can
enter the bay at low water; but to do this, you must, wlien the east point of Dau|)liin
Island is north of you, st(^er to the southward to avoid a narrov sand spit wiiicli projects
off from the jjoint 1 j mile S. S. K. ; haul close round this spit, and steer up the bay.
There is a good anchorage between Hig Pelican and Datijjhin Islands, and close to the
latter, for vessels drawing I'J feet : this anchorage can be entered either from the west-
ward, by steering close to Dauphin Island, or from the main chamiel, leaving it when
Big Pelican island bears W. by N. (about "2 miles S. W, from iMobile Point.) During;
the prevalence of northerly winds, when vessels from sea are prevented from entering the
bay, this atiehora!i<' alVords good shelter.
Those ort'lMobile should recollect the necessity of petting an offing as soon as there
are appearances of a gale on sliore, either to weather the IJali/.e, or which is better, to
take in time the road of Naso, as destruction is inevitable if you come to anchor outside
Mobile liar during the gale.
Strangers approaching Mobile Point in the night, should keep in 1 0 fathoins water till
the light bears ninth, to avoid the dangerous sands lying to the eastward, and the ahoals
off Pelican and Sand Islands, on which is a beacon, to the westward of the bar,
In running in for the land, should you make it to the westward of the bar, it will ap-
pear broken, as it consists of siuall islantls, which occasion several openings. More to
the westward the land is very level. Dauphin Island, on the western ])oint of the bay,
appears high and blulf ; Mobile Point, low and sandy, with a single tree on the extrenuty.
Vessels approaching the entrance to Mobile Bay in the day, should not run for the
bar until the beacon on Sand Island ranges between the east and west ends of the woods
on Duiphia Island.
VHlsels not drawing over 10 or H feet, and with easterly winds, may haul in for the
bar as soon as the beacon conies on within the west end of the woods, and keep it on
thus until they get 7 or 8 fathoms wafer, when they will gradually haul more northerly;
fit this time all the dangers will be visible. Heavy ships must bring the beacon on with
the centre of the woods, and crot-s the bar with it thus, in about IH feet water, steering
up N. N. W. until abreast or past the beacon and island on the larboard, from which an
extensive shoal makes in every direction. Within the bar are two buoys, the first to be
left OB the starboard, and the second on your larboard hand. The channel up thence is
d«ep and plain. Mobile Point Lighthouse bearing between N. and N. N. E. Tide
nses 3^ iiset.
Fire buoys are placed at the entrance of Mobile Bay, viz. a spar buoy on the S. K. ex-
tremity of the shoal projecting from Mobile Point, which you leave on the starboard hand
entering the harbor. One on the west side of the channel from the bar. One on tlie
west bide of the channel on the bar, both which you leave on the larboard hand. One
on the S. E.side of the spit, projecting from Sand Island, and one on Dog Point Bar.
From Mobile Bay to the Bay of St. Louis, the distance is fio miles west : on this ex-
tent of coast there is a chain of islands parallel to the main, forming a sound, which af-
fords a partial inland navigation, and is about 7 miles wide. This coast is marshy, bnt
at two or three miles from the shore it is covered with pines and oaks. The islands are
sandy.
* A lighthouse is erected on Mobile Point. The lantern is 55 feet above the ocean level, and
shows a revolving light of one minute in durntiiin, which may be seen 13 or 14 miles ofTin good
weather. S, 5° E. from the light, 5 miles distant, you have 3 fathoms on the bar. The east end of
Dauphin Island will then bear N. N. W. J W. and Sand Island (just above water) will bp on the
ntiddle of Dauphin Island. The beacon is .30 feet above water, on a frame of iron work, and may
be seen in good weather from 5 to 6 miles, and is 3 miles S. S. W. from Mobile Point.
ni-IM't* AMKinrVN COAST PILOT.
273
istnnv 11 tnilfs; fhin
HI inih'n to the went-
'oint and the cnstprn
'() the [ioutli III" Diut-
of stiiiiM •■xtPiit, Jiiui
Sand I (tiind, which
A hiink. iirojpclini;
le ahovc islands, uU-
jirious rhatnu'U, llie
r ol' this hit lias \\i\-
mt of a shoai lormcd
Is drawing nioietlian
vinj; Bis: I'ehrnn IVI-
iin^ 7 *"<H't water ran
>st point of hauphin
d spit wiiich projerts
J steer up the hay.
uids, and close to the
'ither fr(jni the west-
nnel, leaving it when
l)iie Point.) Diiring
ted from entering the
Ifing ns soon as there
sr which is hetter, to
me to anchor outside
I 10 fathoms water till
twnrd, and the ahoals
•d of the har,
of the har, it will ap-
1 openings. More to
tern point of the hay,
tree on the extremity,
ould not run for the
lest ends of the woods
may haul in for the
woods, and keej) it on
laul more northerly;
g the heacon on with
H feet water, steering
board, from which an
buoys, the first to be
channel up thence is
and N. N. E. Tide
buoy on the S. E. ex-
on the starboard haml
le bar. One on the
larboard hand. One
on Dog Point Bar.
iles west : on this ex-
ig a sound, which af-
coast is marshy, but
aks. The islands are
ove the ocean level, and
3 or 14 miles off in good
be bar. The east end of
ve water) will be on the
e of iron work, and may
bile Point.
Tlie !«nui)d enters Muhile Hay between the main and Dauphin island. At this place
the bottom, formed of oyster beds, presents three shallow passes, viz. J'ass Aux iluitres,
with a (Ifpth of .1 fret ;ii hi^h wattr ; Pass (iuillori, J feet at eominon hl^h tides, and the
Pass an llentn, with nearly 6 fi'et.
|)aiipliin Island is 7 miles in length, and the next snoccediiig is M;i>s;i(ic Island. The
entrance bctwei-n these two is ;> miles wide, and llu- depth of water 5 feet. Massacre
Island is narrow, but it is very easily known, since it has a wuud in the middle vi it : it is
about 'j miles in length.
The |)assage between Massacre and Horn Island is two milus wide, and vessels draw-
ing'J feet wati'r can enter it. The lenf,lh of Horn Island is abdiii i.'j mile-i. On its
western |)oint there is a ligiithun-,^ with a lised lii;lil, to point out the "'ranee to iJau-
])hin Island Souml, between tiie western end of Dauphin Island prid Ship Island. There
are some groves on it, but at tlie eastern part it is entircdy barren.
'J'he next of tiie chain is Dug Island, a small island lying midway between Horn and
Ship Islands. To tlie east of Dog Island there is a |)assage (lose fo Horn Island, of
18 feet ; but to the west there is no passage, as tlie shoal which makes off from .Ship
Island extends beyond Dog Island, having a channel of only otie third of a mile wide.
T!ie distance from Horn fo Ship Island is about .'> miles. Ship Island is 7 miles long,
and wider than the rest of th« chain : in its middle it is CDvered with herbs and f:omo
pines, but tii:- rest is entirely bare. There in a well of very good water in it on the north
side about the middle.
West from Ship Isl;«nd is Cat Island, between which the distance is 5 miles. There is
a bank which [luts oil' li.'tn (';it Nlmid, towards the west end of .Ship Island, having a
channel of only a mile wide, wiiich turns round the west end of Siiip Island, and in which
there are IH feet.
Cat Island is the last of the chain extending ti, the Westward and forming tlie Sound.
On its western point there is a liglithoust with a fixed light, ai;d on the main hmd,
bearing nearly N. W. from the former, there is another lighthouse, also with a fixedl ight.
These two lightliouses indicate ilie passages through Pass t'liristian and Pass Mary Aim.
To the S.W. of (Jat Island are several keys distant abivut ."i miles: (which are near the coast,
and called St. Michael's Keys:) this cu uiriel is no •ivher(^ less than Ifj feet; but within this
part of the sound, vessels drawiii-z more than H feet, canrujt reach the Aux Malheiireux
Island, or steer to the eastward between Cat Island and St. Mary's Key, or enter the Bay
of St. Louis: thus between the island Aux Malheitrcux and this iJay, the Sound becomes
shallow anil olistructeil.
The impeded part of the sound, in the direction of Cat Island and the entrance of the
Hay of St. liouis, is called Pass C!iri.>fian ; and does not admit of \essels drawing more
than 8 feet at meilium tide. This draught of water can be carried througl* Lake Borgne.
From Pass Christian to Pass au Henm. i'J feet can he carried through the sound by
keeping on the island siile. but vessels draw ing h feet must have the sound betweJb Mas-
sacre and Horn Island, and shape their course for the main entrance to Mobile Bay.
Lake Poncharlrain is .eparated irom Lake Borgne by i^ine Island, to the north of which
is the entrance called Kigolelts, and to the south called the Chef Menteur ; these entraiiT
ces and outlets afford, on their respective bars, in Lake liorgne, a depth o( 9 feet at high
water, and rt feet at nuMiium tide. Tliis depth can he carried through the lake within a
short distance of the shore, to Marlisonville. to the m(> th of the Manchac, and to the
mouth of Bayau St. .lean, which connects the citv of New Orleans with the lake*
BAYAU ST. .lEAX, on LAKE PONCHAHTHAIN.— To enter the B>»yau, bring
the *hght to bear S. E. | 8. The entrance is on the west side of the light, and usual
depth of water in the channel, G ieet.
South, \!) miles from Doi; Island, is the north point of the Chandelier Islands, which mo
to the southward, and with (irand (irosier and Isle u Breton, which hend to the S. W.
nearly join the mouth of the Mississippi River. They will be described hereafter..
CHANDELIER ISLANDS. — From Passe a I'Outre, (one of the entrances of the
Mississippi) the coast doubles to the westward, and soon to the northward, to the parallel
of 2')° 27'. in which latitude lies Isle au Breton, which is a group of small keys, whose
western limits are .'j miles rlistant from the coast, so that it forms a bay, caHed PozaBay,
in which there are 4 or 5 fathoms, witli some shr^als of less water. East of Isle au Bre-
ton, is the isle of (irand Crosier, from which a led^e runs N. N. E. and breaks to the isle
of Palos, which is the southernmost of the Chandeliers. There is a good passage inside
the Chandeliers with 8 to 11 feet water, but a good pilot is requisite, from Isle au
•The !ighthou?e is at the mouth of Bayau St. .finn, Iinb- one sninll fixed light, elevated 48feiBt
above the ordinarv surface of the lake, and can be seen in a clear night about eight miles. It is 25
miles S. E. by E. h E- ffom the nioiifh of Cheninata river, 25 miles S. W. from the Rigoletts — 15
miles S. W, from Point Rescnce, and 5 miles nordi from the city of New Orleans.
35
n
274
DLt7i\T*8 AMKRirAN COAKT Plf.OT.
BretDt) n nhonl stretclirs two miles S. W. bold nt rlie very point. Shrlfer cnn he had
from :) N. K. wiml itiodi- ilii* iil.uid, Inn (In; iiiivi;;atiiiti in ditlitidt lor Ntri\iii,'i>rs, and
reqiiren iiiiK.li Htirvfv to dr-ii'iilic it |]rii|ifrlv.
Till! »vli ill- ol tlif ( 'liiuiil<'lit«r Ixl.iiiiU ;iri' vrry low, uiili some invrtle Imslie-s upon lli- '\,
nnd liMiu a cli; in ol' roast vciv iiijiin )I1h. and to l)e dr'.M<l<vl l)y navijjators, not only mat
vou cannot sc! tlii-in nt n i«';inlar distance, Inil ln-causc the winiU at .S. 10. (wliiidi tilow
liard in winter) arc ri^ht on tin- coast ; nrveriliflrs!*, there is cood xheltfr lor all ships to
tli(! WKsfwavd ol' the north cNtri'iiit! of thr ( hindciicr'*, lalh'd the Koad lit Naso, where
the heavy Knilisli ini'ii ol" war lay diinn'; liif ^'w^f ol New Orlcatis. This is ihf only
pood shelter lot large men ol' war in the whole coast ol Florida. ( Tampa Hay and I'cn-
sncola lorsnidl sized Iriiiatcs excepted) not only liei-anse it is deiended iVom winds on
shore, but because there is no bar. breaKi r«^. mir imi)ediment whatever, to yonr enlrriti;;
it in all weathers. 'I'n enter the Itoad of Naso, yon h.m- only to nin so as to doidile the
nortli point in 5 or (> I'aihoius water. »'li)e)i wdl be ime mile lioiii the land, and then navi-
gate from went rofiiid to south, kee|)in<; in I, A, or (> lalhoms, accordin;; to the dral'l of
the ship, nnd yon may anclmr in 4 fathoiris, when the north point bears N. N. K. distant
2 miles : but if you wish deeper water, yon must not run so I'ar south, but anchor when
the north point bears K. .\. K. in '> to U lathouis wafer. In the (Jhandtliers, and almost
the wliolo coast at the Mexican (iult", you can i;et water by distlins wells in the beach.
but there is no other wood on the Chandeliers than the drift lotis left in abundance on the
beach. Its lands produce notiiina but the myrtle, from whiclithe green wax is produced.
Northwesterly of the north extremity of the ("hanthdiers. 14 miles distant, is Ship
Island, west of which, H nnles, is ('at Island, and to the southward of this, various kevs.
called .St. Miijiud, run and extend out from the coast of the islands; between llu-se and
Cat Island is the pass into ISIind liakeand Ldxc I'oncliartrain, in both of wliich there is
very little water, especially in Hlind Lake. JJetween (.'at and ."^hip Islands there is a larce
shoal runnina out from the east point of the fust, which leaves a ( hannel of less than
half a mile wide, to enter to the northward of them ; this channel lias good IJ feet water;
the anchornse is N and S. with the west end of .'ship Island j of a mile distant, in 4 and
5 firhoms. .Ship Island is lon^ K. and W. and very narrow, and widest in the nuddle,
which is partly covered with pines, but barren at both ends. The hurricane of 1819 cut
a small channel through Ship Island It mile from its we<f end ; in it is a well of pood
water, which is oti its north coast, and about midway the island. lOast from Ship Island,
5 miles disianl, lies the west end of Horn Island, and between tlie two lies Dog Island:
from the first a shoal runs out to the east, which not only embraces the iJogs, but leaves a
channel of only loK fathoms wide; the bat has 2\ fathoms, when you immediately droj)
into 5 fathoms. KastolTIorn Island lies .Ma'^^sacre Island, then Dauphin Island, which
is on the W. side of the entrance into .Mobile.
GBNER.\L 01}SKHV.\TI0N.^'.— Thi- whole coast, from Mississippi to Cape St.
Bins, sends off a bank ot' soundings to a great dislaiu'e from the shore, wliose edge runs
out to latitude 2fl° 50', but the depth is very unequal ; this ine(|uality is very clean. If
you except the sand bank that lies in the vicinity of Cape .*sf. Hlas, you will fiiul no dan-
ger in the whoh of it that carmot be prevented by care and the use of the lead, and as
th« whole of the coast is very low, liaving few visil)le marks to distinguish it in its whole
extension, nnd besides is ofirn cloudy and l<)ggy, ex|)osed by the continuntion of winds
from S. to W. and from W. to N. which blow with grent force in winter, nnd by hurri-
CAnes in August nnd September, all which create the necessity of saying something on
the method of triaking the land, nnd navigatinc its coast.
TS'EW ORLEANS, MOBILE AND PHNSAC(JLA— Arethe threeimportant points
of destinntiiki) on this part of the (Julf (d" Mexico; to go to either of which it is best to
make well to the eastwnrrl of them respectively, when coming from any place S. E. of
them, that is, when you have the winds easterly, which is the wind that predominntes
here; but if you come from the westward of them, you have no other resource but to
beat to windward from that point of the coast which you have made, and the greater or
less distance of it, according as you are best accommodated, with respect to the season,
the quality and size of your ship. Arc.
The making to the eastward of your destination is necessary to be more or less distant,
according to the confidence an<l security you have in the situation of the .ship, so that
bound into the Balize, you will look for soundings in the meridian of 29° ,'50', or there-
abouts : and if bound to Pensacola or Mobile, in the meridian of Cape St. Bias.
Should VQU strike soundings in Int. 29'"', steer N. W. by W. awhile, so as lo make it
E. northerly of it, that is, to make its bearing W. southerly, to prevent fnlling into the
southward of its parallels, especially in winter, when it i.s best to run heading for the mid-
dle of the Chandeliers : in this route yon find no regulnrity in soundings, as whatever the
parallel may be, you will as often get more water as less ; nevertheless, from 20 fathoms
down, the soundiags are very regular ; and from the meridian of Pensacola westward, to
hflffr rnn he had
lor Nttaiigers, and
)ushfft upon tl>- -I,
ror!<, not only m.ir
■!. K. (wliirli lilow
Itfr lor ail Kliips to
;i(i «>l Nasi), white
'lliix is tilt* oiilv
npii Hay anil I'cri-
Icil iVoiii >vin<t'' 'in
r, rn your ••nirrinj;
w ns to (lonl)li» ilif
mil, anil then n.ivi-
lina; to the rliaft of
us N.N. K. flistant
I, btit anchor wiim
lll'li)'l'^*, and alinust
urlls in ihf hrach,
n aliiindanc*' on thr
Ml wax is produri'il.
t's distant, is .*<iiip
" tliis, various keys,
iictuccn llicsc and
li ot « hicli lliiMP is
inds thert' i.s a larcp
lannni of less than
Kooil I".' iVel water;
ile distant, in 4 and
iik'st in the niidiile,
uricane of 1h1<j cnt
It is a well of cood
*t from Ship Ishmd,
() lies Pog Islntid :
I)oi;s. b'lt leaves a
imijiediately drop
)liiii Island, which
ssippi to Cape St.
, wliose edfje runs
is very clean. If
u will find no dan-
f the lead, and as
nish it in its whole
tinuation of winds
nter, and by liurri-
lying something on
ee important points
which it is best to
any place S. E. of
that predominates
ler resource but to
and the greater or
pect to the season,
iiore or less distant,
thn ship, so that
f 29° .'50', or there-
e St. Bias,
e, so as to make it
ent falling into the
!ading for tlie mid-
igs, as wliatever the
is, from 20 fathoms
iacola westward, to
BLIJVr'8 AMi:«ICA.N COAST PILOT. 275
the Rrt^tthern limitnnfihe Chatulelierii, yoii will pet 10 raihiinm. 10 niile.i from the roHit;
from Peii«(iri»l.« eastwiiril, you liave 10 tatlioms at 4 miles Imiii ihe coast, and '.'J taiUomt
at ifn or twciirp inilf^.
D'lt at ii.»»i)£at.ii2 lor the Hali/.e, yon may want an oliservi'd latiiiule, and havft it 10
i-liiidy or fif:;;y a« to impede making' the land, in such < ircniiistanceii, or to run for it in
th' nijlit. the «iiuiiiliM;s wdl servi- as a secure ijiiide, fur whicii \oii miMt recollect that
n ivii.iiin? Ill ihf* wcstw.trd, if you litiil lit to .'jO fit!ifiiii., liioHe mini, «lic\iii',' to the touch,
inixi-t ni liin"5 wi'li hiii ill black an. I whife s.ind, ii is a ceitain sujiial tiiii vnu are in the
parallel of the Bah/.e. atiil (roin tliaf ili jilli ti» lc<s water, you will al«a\s fn I (he h.muu
qinjitv of fOMiiilnr^s, but if froiii tO to .jO faiiiniiii In less waier. you nvl bottom of I ne
Kin I. MJlh vi-ry liillc null or without it, you will he in the pariillel of between the Italize
an I I'reioa Key or Island : if you '.M't siin;| white sand, ymi are in the par. die! of said
kev. and if co ir»te sand and snail sli»!lls, you will be in a pirallcl between said k'-y and
C'lian JehTs ; nnl if you tji'i coarse sand, with irravcj, small .tones, and iarce sJielU, you
will be in IriMii of the ('hnidciier^. I"'r.);ii th;- Mil;/.- to tir* westward, (he bottom is of
san I alone. «o that those from the soiitiiward who look lor the Jializc, sand alone will be
a signal that they are we«if of it.
Wiien niviia'ini N. W. an I nirth. t'r.nn the i^ftiiu; 10 or .jO fathoms, sand, and in
diiniiiishin':: the bottom or dpiitli, if tli" (|u illi v ol siHindiims (iiie< not vary till in 10 or 12
tatlioms. you are tolhf southward of the Hali/.e : but if in this N. or N- \V. route, you
liave crossed mud or ooze, and entered in 10 fiithoins. you lind sand, ilicn it is a signal
thit you hiv» crossed the m »utli of the Haii/.e. and dr.iwin^ in with Hreion Island, and
the Chandeliers. The better to explain these soundings, we shall place them in form of
a table.
I In the parallel of the Halizc i
Crossing thesfsoumlings, you cross >
I In theparadel of between the Ualize and
Breron Isl md ot Kev.
this parallel.
s
Loom' imid sticky to the touch,
mixed at times with small fine
black and white sand.
Fine sand with very little mud, or
sand alone.
In the pirallel of Breton Island.
Tine white snnd.
In the parallel of between Breton Island
and the Chandeliers.
Coarse sand and snail shells.
, . ,, , .- 1 f,, , ,.„ } Coarse sand with cravcl, small stones.
In the par.illels ol the Chandeliers. / ,, ,„,. '
• ^ antl iai;;e shells.
W'st of the Bilizp. tile bottom is sand idaiie.
When you come in. looking for the Bali/.e, either in its parallel, or that of the Chan-
deliers, you must take care not to get foul ot' the land at night, bi,t maintain your post*
tion, in 15 or 20 fathoms, at anchor or under weigh : but if you do not wish to delay for
mare safety, you ruay stretch in towards the Balizc, to anchor in 10 or 12 fattiOQu, out*
side the bar.
If the running in for the land has been in the parallel of the Chandeliers, as soon as yon
get 10 or 12 fathoms, you will steer S. S. W. trying to maintain this depth tviibout dan-
ger of running aground, or among shoals, as is shown by the following breakage iu this
soundings: — ./
In this S. S. W. route there is, in the middle of soundings, a good innrk to know the
place of the ship.which is as soon as you arrive in a parallel with the S. end of the Chan-
deliers, which is as far uj) as Alcatrace.s, the deptii liegins to augment to 12, 14, and 18
fathoms, which is athwart with the Po/,a. This augmentation ceases as soon as yon ar-
rive abreast of Pass I' Outre, where yon find anew the 10 fathoms; this knowledge is of
importance in lookin:? for the Balize with security, so as not to jiass to the southward of it.
in running as above, be careful not to get info less than 10 fathoms, when stretching
from t. or from .S. to W. because from this depth to less, you cannot weather the BalizC
with the wind at east, and you have no opportunity for tunning for the rfcd of Naso,
as follows:
Placed in 10 fathoms water, in a S. E. gale (and no appearance of the v.rind's ceasint;)
and getting into less water, you have the rescource of navigating to the northward, sound-
ing c«utiBualijr to maintain 8 or 10 fathoms, so as to coast the CliaaUeliers, and ^oa will
276
DLUriT S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
11
know von linvf! pa'^spd the nnitlierntnnst nuiijt ; it you lose the oo'/.y sniin(lini;s, some-
times iiiixefi wiiii white .shells, wliich is liHiiul oil' the Chiiiitieliers, aij;! (indins; line white
anJ blueli sniul, you m ly steer \V. and niti in 10, H, and 6 fathotns to an;:hor, under
shelter in tiie road of N iso, as the atiiiospliere is eloudy in such weather you can dis-
cover nothiiJi;, and to ^et to thiy ancliiiraire, there is no otlior guide tlian the lead ; but if
you can see the land, yon will easier u;et to the anchora^'e, as you have only to douhle
the spit of sand which runs dlf the N. K. end of the Chandeiiers, on which the sea breaks,
with easterly or snulh-easleriy winds.
'J'his convenient resource will be better, if embraced as soon as you consider the pass-
ins; or weatherinj; the Hali/.e doubtful ; as here you have your choice of water from .3 to
7 (athonn, sheltered from winds in ." fathunis from N. is. and in 7 fathoms from winds
from E. round ou tiie sontlu-rn board to 8. W. It is also necessary to advise, that a9
soon as the winds haul round to betweeti W. and N. you should lose no time iu getting
out of this roadtsead, as the water will (V.il from 4 to () ieet.
It is a s;ood rule in runniu'; I'or tlie iJalizc! to siet soundings in any parallel between '29°
10' and "2')^ 30' or .'53', to fiet . ■•> 25 fathoms, from wiience the Balize will bear S. W. —
from 25 fath:»m<, in any parallel between 2!) ' 10' and 2'J^ .'55', the lialize bears S. VV. and
by steerinj; that course you will hit the Bali/.e, about the N. K. Pass.
If your destination is Mobile or I'ensacola, you should run in for the land, the
eastward of tlieiti respectively, !!.)t only to avoid passiu';; the port, but because landmarks
are so u antin^r, atui the coast so low. that a stranger has notliini^ to guide himself by ex-
cept the lighthouses, the former of wiiicli shows a fixed, and the latter a revolving light,
which may be some guide to the navigator; nevertheless, the soundinj^s indicate suHi-
ciently well the meridian in which the shij) is fonnd; a little more or less, if you attend
to the quality of coarse sand and coral found outside of land, which is a sure indication
that you are otf the east et ' of Santa Rosa Island, where you find the same quality of
soundings as off Tampa r> -v and the other parts of Er ,t Florida, but can cause no
equivocation, because the |)oinls are so distant |iom the one now treated of.
I am suspicious of a aoal or shoals near the edge of soundings, in about lat. 26^ N.
havins; once passed ,uickly through two colored uatchcs, in about that latitude, and was
clear of the appearance bel'ore I had tiiue to sound. They Itioked like coral shoals, and
I passed between tliem with a ship drawing 17.', Ieet. 1 had sounded in 45 fathoms water
shortly before, aiul had no bottom shortly alter.
Direction.'^ for the river Mississippi, and to prevent falling to the. icestwnrd.
Should you take your departure from the Tortugas, on one of which (Gordon Key) is
a lighthouse, on leavinsr them make a N. W. course good, and you will tiill into
the latitude of the Bali/ , 20 i.';;:^ues to the eastward; keep on to latitude 29^ 20',
when you may steer W. o-- W ,V S. to 25 fathoms, then haul t.) S. W. for the Halize, ta-
king care hot to pass its latitude in the night time, and you may make sure of seeing
* Frank's Islahd light, yiioul'' the weather be thick, keep in 10 lathoms, and you will
fall in on Passe a I'Outre, whe.e pilots Fire .ways stationed: but should you see the
land, or vessels at anchiw, if the wind will permit, haul to S. S. W. or more southwardly,
and lead along in 12 fathoms.
Should it bs very (oggy, as it sometimes is in summer and fall, either anchor in 12 or
16 fathoms water, or stretch to the northward, as the currents to the southward of the bar
set strong along the land to the southward, and by keeping tn the southward you will be li-
able to be driven to the southward of the south point, in the latitude of which you will
have 3.5 fathom.s, within three miles id' the land. .\ large bell has been provided, which
will be kept tolling by night and by day, whenever from fog, or any other cause, the light
or lighthouse cannot be seen at least four miles, at which distance it is calculated the bell
may be heard in moderate weather.
In coming from the sea, the , S. W. Pass is said to have advantages, there being bui
* On Frank's Island, the liphtlioiisc nt the cntrnnce of the river .Mi.«;si.«sippi is built. It contains a
fixed light, elevated 78 feet above the ordinary surface of the sea, and can be seen, in clear weather,
six leajfues distant, your best course rupning for the light is due west, and vessels may safely anchor
in 10 fathoms water.
The following bearings from Frank's I.«iand lighthouse are the mean of a number of experiments
by Compass :
Passe a I'Qutre, N. N. W. distance 9 league." ; S. E. Pass S. P. W. one and a half league
South West Pass, S. W. di?tnnt 22 miles, but from it the lijjht cnnii.it be seen, on account of the
cypress growth lining the sides of the Pass itself, as well as the intervening mud banks, which are
generally covered with bushes
t At the S. W.Pass, a lighthouae-is erected^ painted white and black in perpendicular stripes,
showing two li.xed lights, one elevated 30 feet above the otiier. It is on an island on the south iid«
BLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
277
)0''.y soun(lini;s, some-
, iiiitl (intline; line white
loins to an; hor, under
li weather you can (lis-
le tlian the lead ; but if
)U have only to douhle
n which the sea breaks,
i you consider the pass-
oice of water from 3 to
1 7 fathoms from winds
ssary to advise, that a9
lose no time in getting
nv parallel between 'J9°
alize will bear S. W.—
lialize bears S. VV. and
Pass.
in in for the land, the
but because landmarks
to guide himself i)y ex-
! latter a revolving liglit,
loundinga indicate sufii-
ire or less, if you attend
lich is a sure indication
find tlie same quality of
rida, but can cause no
V treated of.
igs, in about lat. 26^ N.
ut that latitude, and was
cd like coral shoals, and
ded in 45 fathoms water
lo the. westicard.
which ((lordon Key) is
nd you will fall into
on to latitude 'J'J" 20',
\y. for the Halize, ta-
ly make sure of seeing
fathoms, and you will
ut should you see the
v. or more southwardly,
either anchor in 12 or
le southward of the bar
southward you will be li-
itudc of which you will
is been provided, which
ly other cause, the light
it is calculated the bell
ntages, there being bv...
ippi is built. It contains a
1)6 seen, in clear weather,
vessels may safely anchor
f a number of experiments
and a half league
be seen, on account of the
ng mud banks, which are
in perpendicular stripes,
In island on the south lida
few shoals. The water is very deep close to the bar, and the softness of the mud such
as to do little harm lo a vessel, even should she ground. Vessels alter making the light,
are often blown to the southward of the Hali/.e, where they have been known to lie em-
bayed for days and weeks together. Ships drawing Ih feet have been taken over this
bar without touching, whereas ships drawing 14.', feet water often lie on the S. E. bar
for days. The N. E. and .S. E. pi'sses are subject to changes, although much Irequented
by vessels of the largest class. From the S. W. I'ass, 22 miles distant, the light on
Frank's Island cannot be seen. Profiting of this Pass, these delays may, in a great
measure, be avoided.
The principal entrances to the Mississippi arc the N. E. Pass, hu. 2*J^ 07' 2.0", be-
tween li and 4 miles 8. E. of the light ; that of the .S. E. Pass, lat. 2'J^ Ori', 4 or 6 miles
S. S. E. from the light; and the S.W. Pass, 22 miles from the light on Frank's Island ;
but approaching the IJali/.e, you should keep 2 or 13 leagues to the northward, by which
you will have good soundings to guide you. When you have struck soundings, you
may run in the parallel above directed into H oreven I'i fathoms, and you will then see
the lighthouse on Frank's Island, and have the Block House or 15ali/>e bearing south-
westerly ; the anchorage is good every where, and should it fall calm, a light kedge will
prevent being drilted by the current, which is somctinies pretty strong on the coast, but
it is much stronger in the latitude ol' ihe river"* mouih tiian elsewhere, and no sound-
lugs until yon comt^ close in with the land, in running from Passe a I'Outre for the
main bar at the S. E. Pass, in the night, it is not safe to keep in less than 15 fathoms
water; in the daytime vessels may approach within 8 or 10 I'athoms, observing to keep
the lead going. Being olf Passe a I'tJiUie in 15 fathoius, in order to go around the N.
E. Pass in 10 fathoms, the course is S. S. E. distant 2 leagues ; from thence to the an-
chorage oiF the bar S. S V. 1.1 league. The Block House at the Bali/.e bears from
the best anchorage to w, ., for a fair wind to come over the bar, \V. by N. I N. distant 2
leagues, where will be found 8 to 11 fathoms. At the entrance of the S. E. channel on
the bar, the Block House bears N. W. by W. distant 5 miles.
COMMON ERROR (JF STRANtiERS.— Captains not acquainted on the coast,
are frequently alarmed when tliey come near the river, by the appearance o( the water,
particularly during the first summer months, when the river is high, tor at that time the
fresh water of the river rushes out with great force, and being lighter than the ocean wa-
ter, floats on the top, making an appearance altogether singular and alarming, for where
the fresh water has not entirely covered the salt water, but leaving spots, it has the ap-
pearance of rocks, the river water being of a milky color, while the other is quite dark, and
chanrs suddenly. When the river is low, the white muddy water extends about 3
leagues olf, ami when high about 5. On coming into it, it ripples like shoal breakers*
but your soundings are regular.
ON THK SETTINt; OF THE CURRENT.— The current .sets, with very little
variation to the east ; and when any variation is experienced, it is either to the north or
south of the river's mouth. It is very evident to every man of reflection, that so large
a coluiun of water,, rushing into the ocean, must spread, when it is no longer confined^
and produ<-e different currents, until it has found its level, and ^vill be found to vary from.
the original course, in proportion as you approach the edges : allowing the current ♦oset
due east, 1 have known two shi|)s to come into the river at the same time, and the oM
complain of a southerly, and the other of a north. 'riy current, and that because the ond
had been to the south and the other to the north of the river's mouth ; however, as every
stranger should gel into the proper latitude before he comes within the inflaence of itd
current, I do not think it necessary to say any more on that subject.
ENTRANCE OF THE RIVER.— The" land at the entrance of the Mississippi Ri^
ver is nothing more than mud banks, continually incre:ising, with reeds and rushes grow-
ing upon it, at the height of 10 or 12 feet above the water. The lighthouse on Frank's
Island, or vessels at anchor, are generally the first you discover. The general winds
are from the N. E. and you should avoid getting to the southward. The winds make a
diflerence over the bar, at the entrance of the Mississippi, and the general depth of watelf
is from 11 feet 6 inches to 14 feet.
In lat. 29° 18' N. you will strike soundings in 45 or 50 fathoms, small gray sdiid,
with black specks. The Bali/.e bearing W. by S. i S. 40 miles distant, when in 15 or
18 fathoms, soft sticky mud, you will see the Balize bearing S. W. (if clear weather.)
With the Balize bearing S. W. run into not less than 12 fathoms, on account of some
of the Nine Feet Channel, about three miles inside the bar, and left on the larboard hand on entering
the river.
A lighdiouse is also built on, a shoal or island, near the south point of South Pass, ehowing a n.
volving ligiii, which is left on the starboard hand going into the river. The building is painted black
and white, in horizontal slripas.
278
BLUNT .S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
mud bnnks, scarcely disreiniblo nhove the suifiipp, until tlio IJalize l)enr.s W. N. W.
anil N. N. \V. in K) l'atli(iiiis. Tlic I5;i!i/r heaiim; N. W. is irood i;n)uri(l to am hor,
atuJ atlvaiitau:i'ous lor ijeitinn; uiidi-r way to mo over tin; l)ar. In Co-rijv weather run no
further in lor the land than I'j I'athonis. and it is prelerable anchoriin; in ii^ht breezes
to beinji drii'tcJ about by the euiretits, wliich are uncertain. From tlie l)ar (or entrance
of the Mississipni lliver) to .\"'.v O/l-^aii-;, is I'JK miles.
TO .SAIL r'P TlIK mVKK.— In sailm-u;) the river, if you have a fair wind, run
from point to point, carclnlly avoiding tin- bends, and by doin'i so, you willsiiorten the
distance, have less current, and wi);ii is of moie consequence, you will avoid the danger
of liaviuu; your vessel sunk by the trees which frecjuently lie under water. As you are
coming up to an I passinj; a poiiu, it will be well to lieave a cast id' the lead ; with light
winds, or when t.'ie wind is scant, alwavs keep on the leeward side of the river.
ON COMIN(t to Oil BRINlJlSCr Ul'.—Kvery vessel, while in the .iver. should
have their boat aionf^side, wi:h a siood hawser in it, accordiit;; to the size of the ship,
ready to run out to a tree, which uvtliod of brinsina; up is always preferable to letting
go an anchor, for you are sooner under way. and avoid the danyer of losini; your anchors.
Every vessel, while in the river, shotild have a haulabout block lashed under the bow-
sprit to reeve a rope throusjh, which rope should be bent to the crown of ihe anchor, in
the same way as a buoy rojje, and be strons enou'zh ta weiuli it. The crown line
should be of len.;th suffieient, that when the anchor is let go, you may veer it away with
the cable and always have the end on botrd. as l)y this means, if you should gel I'oul of
any thing with your anchor, (which frequently happens) you will get it again ; other-
wise you will be obliged to cut your cable asid lose your anchor. If you are obliged to
let go anchor, it shoidd be, if|)ossible, at a point, for you will be more likely to fnid clear
bottom. In the bends the bottom is always foul, being full of sunken trees, and there
are few instances where an anchor need be let go in the bends, because you may al-
ways run a fast to a tree.
SHOALS l\ TllK RIVER.— About .3 miles above the Look-out-house, and op-
posite what is called the Pas Aux Cautres (one of the outlets of the river) there is a flat
makes out a full half way over the river; this should be avoided by keeping near the
pass, into which you nuist take care not to get drifted : this is what may be called the
first shoal ; the next is about 7 miles above the fort at Plaquenfuu'. on the larboard siile
of the river, as you are coming up: to avoid it ymi must keej) m;arer to the marsh on
the starboard side; the marsh is the first land you come to withcuit trees after leaving
Plaquemine ; here the land is very narrow, and by going a few sieps up the shrouds,
you may see the sea at not mure than a musket shot distance ; by these marks you may
know when you are coming up with the shoal. The fort lies opposite the marsh, and
runs full one third of the way over; these are the only shoals that may be c ailed dan-
'gerdiis, but as I have before observed, the lead should be cast whenever you are ap-
proaching a point.
BOUND DOWN THE RIVER.— Vessels going down the river, should always
have sufficient sail on them to be al>l.'» to keep clear of the shore ; without great care
.you will be driven into the bends and lose your rudder, and this has iVeqnenlly huppened
yith experienced seamen. I would observe also, that every vessel, unless the wind is
ftjr, and settled weather, should bring to at sunset.
We are confident that the great depth of w;\terat the South West Pass will have more
importRut bearings upon the comifierce of New Orleans than all may imagine. " It is de-
cidedly the best channel, which has induced the government to erect lighthouses at the
^htrance.
'Going down the river, a slight inflexion to the right takes you to the head of the Pass,
which runs S. W. almost as straight as an arrow. The shores on each side are very
bold, there being 7 fathoms water, in nu.iy places, almost touching the bank. A vessel
can often proceed this way, when it would be dangerotis or impracticable to drop down
the bend at the most frequented channel, past the middle ground.
About the same distance has to be gone over in order to reach the bar at the N. E. or
Old Ship Channel (viia the Balize) or to go down the S. W. Pass ; but the course to
the latter is direct, and ti.ere are no such dangerous shoals as the middle ground in go-
ing to it. The latter bar has 4 or 5 feet iimre water than the other, and the bottom is
soft mud ; whereas that of the N. E. Pass is rather hard and gravelly in many places.
During flood tide there are never less than '20 feel water in the S. W. Pass, about Id at
low water. Var. 67° E.
COAST WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPL— West 47 miles from the S. W. Pass,
is the east end of Toubalier or Tiudialier Island ; in this distance the coast bends to the
N. W. and S. W. forming a bight in the coast, in which is the entrance to Barrataria
Bay. The whole coast in this bight is low and covered with a kind of rushes, with the
•xceptioo of a few trees to the east of Barrataria Bay. The csurss from the S. W. Pass
BLUiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
279
to fh<? Bar is AV. N. W. juul tlio (li<;fniicc 35 miles. In nnvi,:^afinj; befwpf-n Totibalier
IsIhikI aiul I lie S. W. I'nss. yon slmuld not come in less wiiter tii;in 4 lathoins. The
coast to N. K. of 15arralaii I lakes a lurn to tlie S. W. and you may know tiie entrance
to llie l)ay \>y a setilcment on the east ol'tiie iiaiiior. 'I'he buy is about 10 miles wide
in every direction ; its depth varies Irom (> to 12 feet. (Jn the sea side it is covered by
(jrand Terre island, which leaves between it and the main tw(, entrances, the eastern of
which is (ilhrii: !i|) ; anil thi' western, called liie (irand Pass, ali'ords on tlie bar 9 leet wa-
ter. 'J'n the east ot'Toubalier Island the La Fonrclie discharttes itsellby several mouths;
a bar makes oll'trom llie east end of this island in a S. K. direction about 2 miles.
Toid)alier or 'I'indiaiier Island lies nearly E. and W. but bends to the northward at
the westeml. It is 10 miles lonii.antl I'ronts a bay in wiiich tlicre arc I'roin 'J to 4 feet wa-
ter. A shoal extends from its west end 'J miles in a W. diiectio." as far as the east end
of Cayo Island, which is the next succeeding.
The east end of Cayo lies N. W. from the west cm! of Toubalier Island 2 miles dis-
tant; it is 4 miles iti length, I'roin east to west. Fresh water may be found on its east
end, and likewise in a sniall bi^ht to the N. W. part of the island, d'ood anchorage for
vessels drawing b feet water is founti at the east end ; to take it, it is only necessary to
briiiju the S. E. |)oint to bear N. E. and steer for it, and with your lead for your tiuide,
when near it, haul a little to the eastward, until the |)oint is north, wlien yon may
steer and anchor as close to the island as you please. \V. S. \V. from (Jayo Island ItV
mile distant is another island of above 2', miles in extent, and 2 nnles further on the
same course, is the east end of Nine Island. 'J'he shoal water extends some distance off
tlie island lying between, and you should not conu- nearer the shore than 2 miles. Vine
Island is about G miles lona;, ruiinint; W. S. W., nn«l is scjjarated iVrtui Derniere Isle by
a small creek; Derniere Isle is 11 miles long, and runs west until near its west end,
when it turns to the N. \V. Fresh water can be found at its west end, which is called
Racoon Point. A shoal on which the water breaks, lies W. S. W. '20 miles distant from
Eatoon Point (lat. 28"^ 5^') ; between the point and the shoal you will have from 4 feet
to 2', fathoms. A shoal likewise lies in liie meridii-n of the jioint, to tlie southward, be-
tween which and tiie point are 2 to ") lathoms. N'essels drawing 5 feet may anchor under
Racoon Point by l.ringmg tlie joint to bear nc.rih and runtiing for it. and giving it a berth
of 200ya(ls; haul round ihe point and anchor in 7, '^, or ') fert water. The bays
formed behind the islands last mentioned are shoal, liaviiig only from 2 to 4 feet water,
ai!d the shore tn the iiumIi of them is marshy. Paeoon Point is about 7 miles from the
main, which runs abotu W. N. W. 41 mdes to Point An Fer.* This part of the coast
is shoal, as at 2 miles Irom the coast you have 6 and 7 feet water, and for the whole dis-
tance it is marshy.
From S. IV. r«iA to Bdlc hlc.
On leaving S. \V. Pass steer \V. by S. aliout 18 leagues ; this course will carry j'ou
in 7 fathoms water oil" f'l'iniljalier : the coast from thence to llacoon Point, a distance
of about 11 leagues, may be approached within one mile or less. Near the meridian of
Racoon Point is a bad shoal of hard sand, su|)[:osed to be distant 10 or 12 miles, as land
could but just be discerned fr(»m mast-head. It is always sa est to pass between the
shoal and Racoon Point, keeping the lead going, (iive the point a berth of 2 mile*,
and you will have not less than 2 fathoms water. By a good observation this point is in
lat. 28^ 58' N. ; course from hence to Point Au Fer is about W. N. W. northerly, dis-
tant 15 leagues It is best to keep the lead constantly gomg, and approach as near the
land as your draft of water will permit, say 10 feet, to avoid running past the fight, as^in
hazy weather you can scarcely see the light in 2- fathoms water ; lat. of the point 29°
19' N. Uring the light to bear E. by S., steer W. by N. 7 or 8 miles, (ilJ you have
Tucka Hummock bearing N. N. W. ; steer for it till you have Belle Isle bearing N. E.
by N. ; then haul up into the bay E. N. E. ; the stranger niust then be guided by stake*,
which designate the channel.
Rabbit I. Tucktt Hum. Hayo Salle,
fictlc Isle.
» On Point An Fer is n ligbihmipe showing n fixed lipht, elevated about 70 feet above the level
of the i^ea, lat. 23- 1!)' N.. long. 9P52' W.. and icrvcs ns n guide for vessels goinp into Achafa.
Inva Bay ; it bears from Belle Isle S. S. E. 12 nii!es. and from tbe entrance of the river 8. by W.
10 inilep ; from ibc outer buoy K. by S. ; goinjr in the- buoys are nil left on the starboard hand, ex.
crpt in tlic narrows, wberc there are two, and you go between them.
t A lighthouse is erected on this island.
280
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
II
One channel is to brinj; Belle Isle to bear N. N. E. and steer in for it, but this chan-
nel is intricate, anrl not leenerally used. Vessels drawing over 7 feet will find much
difficulty in fjetting into the river.
The highest part of Hello Isle is l.'JO feet above the level of the sea. It can be seen
at a consiflerable distance, fliere hein'J no land resembling it on the coast.
FROM POINT AU FER WKSTWARD.— The Coast to the west of Point Au
Fer is shoal for some distance from the shore, until you are up with Tiger Point, which
may be known by a large ridge of high land, covered with oak trees. In this distance,
which is about sixty miles, there is no navigation of consequence to the west of Belle
Isle; a number of small islands and shoals to the west of Belle Isle and a large Island
bound the coast until within 10 miles of Tiger Point, and form behind then? Vermilion
Bay, which communicates with the sea at the East and West |)oints of the island. This
bay has from 5 to ') feet water in it, and in the western strait, which is the clearest, there
is a bar with !) feet water on it.
Beyond Tiger Point tlw ' .id runs west about 8 miles to theBayaus of Great and Lit-
tle Constance, which have bars at their entrances.
From these Bayaus the coast lies W. I N. to the mouth of the River Mcrnientao, dis-
tant 15 miles : this piece of coast is swampy and without trees, but the beach is good ;
the river has from 4 to .') teet water on the bar at its mouth, and the lai for 2 leagues up
the river is swampy ; it thence rises and is well covered with wood.
W. by N. 30 miles from Mermentao is the river Calcasu, and '20 miles W. from the
Calcasu is the Mouth of the River Sabine and the boundary between the United States
and Mexico: in all this distance there is a good beach, clear and without trees, but in,
some places it is swampy ; the Sabine has a bar at its entrance with from 6 to 8 feet
water.
Courses by Compass from the S. W. Pass of the Mississippi.
To Racoon Point W. J S. distant 33 leagues.
To clear the shoal of do W. by S. j S. " 33
To Pap", dol Cavallo, W. by S. " li>0 •'
To Aranzas Inlet VV. by S. | S. •' 133 "
To Corpus Chiisti W. by S. 1 S. " 140 "
To Brazo dc Santiago S. W. by W. { W '* 149 "
ToRio de Tampico S. W, M 205 *»
€OAST OF MEXICO FRO^I THE SABII\E WEST TO
TAIVIPICO.
The coast from the Sabine lies W. and then trends S. W. as you approach the en-
trance to Galveston Bay, a distance of about 50 miles, the whole uf which is clean, hav-
ing about 3 fathoms within a mile of the shore.
i.l GALVESTON BA V.— The entrance into this bay is between point Bolivar on the
Nt and tbe east end of the St. Louis or Galveston Island, on the S. between thein are
four channels.
Sboilldlt be your intention to go into Galveston Bay, be careful to haul to the south,
when the wind is from that quarter, to avoid being hemmed in to the north, in which
case ydu will be obliged to take the N. passage, w hich has but 7| feet water, and will
only carry you as far as the point : to take this passage you will keep along the north
^hore, and when near up with the entrance, leave a shoal w hich is dry at low water, south
of you; you will have 8 or 9 feet water until nearly up with the point, when it will
0hoalj3t) to 7i feet, and soon after deepen to 0 and 10 ; continue along shore about a mile
when you will have 2 and ii.i fathoms ; here you must anchor, as you cannot pass this
next point with more than 4 or 5 feet, on account of a bank which extends from the dry
shoal above mentioned, all the way south of you, until it turns ijuite round the point to
the west. Here you are safe in a common gale.
Nearly a mile to the south of the aimvc passage is another with 9 feet, the course into
which is N. W., leaving the dry shoal on the starboard hand ; and three quarters of a
mile south of this, is another, having 13 feet : the course into which is also N. W., and
after passing the shoal, which lies to the south of you, you may steer direct for the north
point of Galveston Island, and having passed the bar, you will have 3, 4. and 5 fathoms
till up with the point, which pass within one hundred yards, gradually increasing your
distance as you pass, when you will see the bank on the north bar, which is steep to,
Bteer then to t
bushes about
3 or 4 fatlioms
Slioiild you
iind in 2 Ikihoi
liiiul round tii
Galveston Is
cannot inistaki
is a wide pass
di^tant, is a lo
From the S
to the mouth
miles from the
house on the T
the Woodland!
entrance has (r
ject to change.
S. \V. from
wliicli is narro\
woodlands bad
In running
somewhat in, b
pass a small ba^
which runs neai
land is low all t
PASA DEL
you will see a w
the S. point is ;
|)oint in 9 feet a
■Tiid steering for
must direct yoi;
then Ktep the s(
sand island whit
hundred yards,
west side : in riii
point, give it a s
proceed up the
is steep on both
if you wish to a
and continue in
go ahead with yi
'J'cwn, continue
Oyster Bank, wl
miles. This bai
been less than 9
From Pasa de
somewhat in, am
and when you g(
back of the l)ay,
row, and not mo
with a low sand ]
ARANZA liN
N. and alter cros
not afl'ect you, as
iug to the north
feet ; or you mai
you intend going
north |)oint, leav
about N. by E. o
South of Aran
al)out 25 miles.
with more dry sa
S. by E. from
tiago ; and 10 mi
between them is
tiago, and on whi
BLUNT S AMERIOAX COAST PILOT,
281
t this chan-
1 find much
can be seen
if Point Au
*oint, which
is distance,
est of Belle
large Island
Ti Vermilion
land. This
jarest, there
eat and Lit-
Qientao, dis-
irh is good ;
I leagues up
W. from the
ntted States
trees, but in,
n 6 to 8 feet
leagues.
41
It
:ST TO
lach the en-
clean, hav-
ilivar on the
len them are
|o the south,
ill, in whitli
Iter, and will
jig the north
[vater, south
/hen it will
ibout a mile
jot pass this
from the dry
the point to
course into
luarters of a
liN. W.,and
fortlie north
\\ 5 fathoms
[easing your
is sleep to,
1
steer then to the S. W. up the channel in :) or 4 fathoms, till you see a small bunch of
bushes about two or three miles fioiii tin; point, which bring to bear S. E. and anchor in
3 or -I fathoms. Fresh water may be had near tlie Ijiislics.
Shonlil you wish to go in by the .South i'ass, lieep ah)iig the l)i';i('h of (Jalveston Tal-
iiud in "J fi.ihoins, until near the point, when you will not have miiif liian 10 or 11 feet,
liiiul round the poii.l as i)ei(»r<' liirected, andsleer S. W, for the ;m(ii(ira;;i'.
Galveston Island is about 'JO miles long, and trends N, K.and S. \V.; it is low, but you
cannot mistake it, as there are three single trees about the middle; at the west end there
is a wide pass with a small island nearly in the middle of it, and back of it about? miles
distant, is a long wood, called (Jyster and ( 'liocolatc Dye Wood.
From the .S. W. end ot' ( Jalveston Island, the ((uist comiimes .S. W. distance 15 miles,
to the mouth of the Rio Hra/.os, and you will iiave ;i and 1 fathoms water at •J', or 3
miles from the shore. As you come up with the mouth of the Kiver you will see along
house on the N. E. point, called Michael's, and to the .\. VV. of the mouth you will see
the Woodlands of Hrazos, distant about 7 or ri miles from the beach. The bar at the
entrance has from 41 to 5 and 0 feet water on it, but like all the other entrances it is sub-
ject to change.
S. W. from the mouth of the Hra/.os \2 miles, is the entrance to Rayo .'"^t. Bernard's,
whicli is narrow, and has from 5 to 7 leet at times; as you approach it you will see the
woodlands back of the beach at the distance of H miles.
In running down from Hayo .St. Bernard's for Pasa del Cabauo, the land trenches
somewhat in, but the general course is about 8. W. and the distance f).') miles: you will
pass a small bayo about >^ miles tVoin .St. Bernard. This bayo has a range of woodland
wiiichruns nearly to the beach, at the end of which is tin- bayo. At'ter passing this, the
land is low all the way, and you may keep in .'!, 6, and 7 fathoms.
PA.SA DEL CABALLO.— As you approach this pass, which is in lat. Q8' 19' N,
vou will see a wide oiiening iVom the N. point, (called Point C'levry) between which and
the .S. point is a sanil island. You will cross the bar aiiout 5 miles rlistant from the N.
point in [) feet at low water, by bringing the south jioiiit to bear from >J. W. to N. N. W,
and steering for it ; but you will always liiid some lumps on the bar, and your judgment
must direct you. After jiassing the bar, follow the west breakers till you pass all, and
then ktep the south shore close on board in ','.',, .'l, and 4 fathoms, till you get up with a
sand island which you will leave on your starboard hand, and having passed within two
hundred yards, steer for the west part of the north point, as there is a low Hat on the
west side : in running here, yoi. will have 'J',, 1>, and 3 fathoms ; and as you approach the
point, give it a small i)erih. Vou may anchor abreast of the island, or if you wish to
proceed u|) the bay, give the marsh a small beilh, in from (> to 2\ fathoms, as the ground
is steep on both sides. Below the point, for the distance of two miles, is more flat : and
if you wish to go to the liavacker. run N. W. till you haul in under the south shore,
and continue in *) and 10 feet till you come up with the first oyster rock, when you must
go ahead with your boat, and if bound to the mouth of the Colorado or Matagorda
Town, continue along the marsh at the pass, kee|jiiig your lead going till you reach tho
Oyster Bank, which runs from the river to the sea beach,.') miles, and from the pass 30
miles. This bar is sul)iect fo change, like the otljers, but for many years there has not
been less than 9 feet at low water.
From Pasa dei Caballo to Aranza Inlet, the course is about S. W. The land curves
somewhat in, and the distance is 40 miles. If lies in lat. v.'7 ' 5.5' N. All the coast is low;
and when you get about half the distance, you will, in clear weather, see some woodland
back of the bay, but nothing very remarUabio on the coast. The entrance is very nar-
row, and not more than 7 and H feet at low water. The north point is somewbfft high,.
with a low sand point stiet< liing to the south point. ^
ARANZA INLET.— In going in, bring the south jjoint to bear W. by S.or W. by
N. and after crossing the bar. steer direct for tlie south point, taking care the tide doea
not alfect you, as it is very strong, and you may ^o within pistol shot of the point, haul-
ins; to the north soon as yon have passed it, and take yoih- soundings in 10, 11, and 12
feet : or you may am hor soon as you pass the south jioint 400 yards, in 3 fathoms.. If
you intend going up the bay. continue in the above soundings, till you get up with the,
north |)oint, leaving a \<>ivi tiat on the west. The channel is very narrow, and course
about N. by E. or N. N. E. about 2 miles.
South of Aranza the coast runs S. W. by .S. or i^. S. W. to Corpus Christi, distant
about 2ii miles. 'J'lie coast, after leaving the point 3 miles, is high and hilly all the way,
with more dry sand hills.
S. by E. from the entrance to Corpus Christi, distant 92 miles, is the Barra de San-
tiago ; and 10 miles farther to the south is the entrance to the Kio del Norte; midway
between them is Boca Chica, which enters into the same lagoon as the Barra de San-
tiago, and on which you will have 4 feet water,
9$
382
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
But few vessels enter the Rio del Norle, the trade to Matnnioras being carried on
tlirougli iIjc IJana dc Santiago, wliicii aliords a depth of feet water on its bar, while ilie
river allbrds but about 6 ftet.
Directions for the Brazo de Santiago and the Rio del Norte, by Thomas M. Thompson,
Branch Pilot.
In running down for the Hra/.os, betweeri the months of March and September, be
careful to keep to the soutli of •2(t'^ N., for should you fall in to the southward of the bar,
you will find it very easy lo make your northing, as n continued current is running
northerly of from two to fhree knots pur hour. Should you fall in with the land, not
having had an observation previous, so as to know if you are north or south of the bar,
by going to the mast head you will see, if you are to the northward, a large lagoon of
water, and scarcly be able to seethe main land.
N. B. — Tliis lagoon oxtenJs to the north of 28' .'50' latitude, and is a certain sign of
your being to the north. If you are to the south of the river, you will find your water
of a muddy green color, and no lake to be seen on the inside fn in the mast head. If
your vessel is in the vicinity of the river, the water will be the same as approaching the
Mississippi. If you fall in between the river and the bar of Santiago, you will be able
to discern a large house, that stands on an eminence at the entrance of Bi'ca Chica, a
little n;'rrow inlet situated '> miles south of the Braz.os. Vessels bound here, between
September and .March, will do well to keep as near the 20th degree of north latitude as
possible, as the curient is then altogether goveriiC'l by the winds. With the exception
of an east wind, the current is northerly.
A white flag will signify tliat a vessel cannot enter, and will never be shown except
there is danirer in entering, and will be hauled down when the danger ceases.
A red (lag will be hoisted to know yoiu- drauglit of water, which you can answer by
hoisting your tlag as many times as your vessel draws feet of water.
When a blue Hag, it will tell you the pilot is coming out to take you in ; or if you draw
too much water, anil will have to lighten.
A white and red flag will be hoisted for you to anchor, with two flags in a range, and
in four or five fathoms water, and a lighter will be sent out to you inimediately.
A white and blue flag signifies that you may iiaul ofl' for the night, as it is too late to
enter, but you will be attended to in the morning.
Any vessel appearing oft' the harbor in distress, will be promptly attended to, on mak-
ing the usual signal, viz. the ensign, union down. I would recommend a white square
flag with a large black ball in the centre, as a signal much quicker discerned.
Other Directions for Vessels bound to Texas.
From the S. W. pass of the Mississijipi, steer W. S. W. one hundred miles with the
wind at S. E. to avoid the flat ground of the Oyster Bank, which lies oft' Vermilion Bay.
This bank is large, an I lias from 2 to ."J and 3 t'athoms on the outer part, and on the in-
ner part, 2 and 2';, a long distance : W. by S. course will cross this bank at times in 3 and
4 fathoms, soft bottom. As the current is so uncertain, it is almost impossible to know
w*ien you make your course good. After passing tliis slioal, you may steer for the Bra-
zos without fear, and soon be on soundings again, and have from IG to 20 fathoms, till
you gradually shoal your water to y, 8, 7 and b fathoms. Should you wish to go for Pasa
del C%fta||io, on a W. S. W. course, you will have soundings from 20 to 10 fathoms. 75
tnil0S distant ; and when in H fiiiioui.-, l-ar weather, you will see tiie land. In the lati-
tude'^ of Aranza, you will strike bottom. 2-,, 'if), or about '.]0 miles from land, and shoal
very gradually; and, when in rt fai'uoins, yon will see the land "cvl miles in clear weather.
More south, the water is much deeper; and you will have 7 lathoiiis close to the land,
changing suddenly to 18 fathoms, 12 miles from land.
The course from the S. \V. Pass to Harataria is W. N. W. and distance 37 miles.
Ship Island is nearly in the same latitude a' the S. W. Pass.
The current on the while coast is generally governed by the winds; but more rapid
currents set to the south m a north wind than in any other. Vessels falling soutii of the
port, with a north wind, will find it aliii(,>r impossible to hold their own in a strong
breeze. When bouml to the eastward for NewOrleans, yonr better way is to go no
nearer the land than forty miles, until in the latitude of its entrance, as you will by that
have no cui-re .t to hurt you; but on sorndings and in shore, the current runs, in mode-
rate weather, regularebb and flood, and the easterly current but a small part of the time.
The tide at the passes, in common, rises 2, 2^^, and in spring, 3 feet, and only in 24
hours; but it is altoiiether governed by the winds. In heavy winds on the coast, ^t is
known ti run in 36 hours, and sometimes 48; and on a sudden change of wind to tlie
north, it will run out as long, in moderate weather. Sometimes there is a half tide,
which rises nearly to high water, but seldom runs in.
4
From tlie
the liarra de
low water ; fi
fioiii the con
soutli coast o
be relieved.
From Hio
miles to the I
ami through
ed 3 or 4 lea>.
ly to the Bar
S. '. \V. al
tlie shore for
ter, and the 1
niid«';iy betw
leagues up t
crossed, and
of 11 or 12 ft
From the
do; all the bo
jeaL'ues to tli(
delTonlothe
The marks
west from it. ;
land called T;
Soutli of ]>
some pointed
shore. All tl
soutli of Barn
Chapopote or
S.A E. 7 m
distance. TIn
Bar is the hill
From Barra
miles. Tlie c
after which it
GENERA I
(From the De
have not more
quite dry exce
ous, on accoui
to ride at her ;
2 or 3 days bel
the navigation
E. whicii facil
April to June
a case of nece
it will be more
mer from mid
this only takes
minates; all tl
which is the c
We have fol
ing more conv
Gulf, consmeu
BLUiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
2?3
iiig carried on
bar, while the
W. Thompson,
"September, be
ard of th'' bar,
;nt is running
the hmd, not
jth of the bar,
irge lagoon of
erfain sign of
[id your water
nasi head. If
preaching the
u will be able
Ji'ca Chica. a
I'.ere, between
th latitude as
the exception
shown except
?s.
;an answer by
or if you draw
) a range, and
itely.
t is too late to
d to, on niak-
white square
d.
niles with the
ermilion Bay.
nd on the in-
mes in 3 and
ible to know
for the Bia-
falhonis, till
0 go for Pasa
fathoms, 75
In thelati-
id, and shoal
ear weather.
to the land,
ice 37 miles.
more rapid
south of the
n in a strong
is to iio no
1 will by that
ns, in niode-
of the time.
J only in '24
le coast, it is
wind to the
a half tide,
From the Rio del Norte the roast trends S. 3° E. 7 miles, then S. \o° W. 29 miles to
the harra de .San Ftriiando or River 'l'i;;re,oii the bar of \vli;( li ilirre arc nearly 3 feet at
low water; for the whole distance the land is low. The water ol this tiver is brackish
from the comiiiiinication it has with the lagoon, and is only (rosli alter the rains; on the
south coast of the bay (urnied by it, there is a good pool, where any urgent necessity may
be relieveil.
From Kit) de S. Fernando the coast continues S. in nearly the above ihrecfion 23
miles to the Rocas f'iegas or Cerrados, which arc four openings in the >ijacc of a league,
and throuuh which the sea enters w^cu there are heavy gales: they may be distinguish-
ed 3 or 4 leai^ues at sea, and they comtMUMlcalc with iMadrc LaiToon, which exte-ds near
Iv to the Rarra .S. Ander. The land (Vuki R. .St. Fernando to Ro as Ciet;as is low.
S. .', \V. about '2\ Ic, lilies tVuni Rocas ('ii'i;as, is tiic entrance to the River St. Ander;
the shore tor the whole ol' this distance is low .ind sainly ; oti the bar there are U feet wa-
ter, and the hills of Corrigo and Raima serve as uiarks for it, the bed of the river being
niiihvay between them, and formin'.' in part, a liu^f lagoon, who^e shores are low. Eight
leagues up the river is the town of .Santa dt; la .Miirina. 'J'he lagoon, alter the bar is
crossed, and before you enter the river, is full of shoals, and you have only one channel
of 11 or 1~ feel water, but in the river you hav 1 or '} tiithdiiis.
From tiie Rarra de .St. Ander the coast runs 8. 3^ F. 18 leagues trt the Barra del Tor-
do; all the bottom is good in this distance, save that there arc seme detached rocks three
leagues to the S. of .*^t. Ander, where they extend '2 miles from the coa«t; on the Barra
del Tordo there are scarce 3 feet at low water.
The marks lor crossine this bar are those douUIe hills called the Martinez, they lie
west from it, and the N. W. of Martinez in the interior you can see the range of high
land calletl Taniaolipas stretching in that direction.
.South of liana del 'J'onh, ]() niiies, is that of Trinidad, the bottom is good except
some pointed rocks here and there, none of w'icii extend I'urther than 2 niiies from the
shore. All the shore of this coast is sand or low iiill,)i:I«s, ul which those about 2 leagues
south of Rarra del Tordo are of greater elevation than the rest, and are called the Hill of
Chapopote or Coniandanti; : on Rarra del Trinidad there arc but 2 feet water.
.S. t; E. 7 miles from Triniilad is Rarra Ciega, and witliin a lagoon extending the whole
distance. The coast is clear, save near the shore the bottom is rocky. \\'est from Ciegu
Bar is tiie hill of Metate. iiarra tJiega has 3 feet water on it.
From Rarra Ciega to Tampico J5ar the coast runs S. by W. and the distance is 19
miles. The coast is clear, save some pointed rocks which extend south of Ciega 6 miles,
after which it is clear.
GENERA r. (JR.SFRVATIOXS on the coast from Tampico to Galveston Bay^
(From the Derrotero) — The greater [)art of the lagoons that are formed on this coast
have not more than .'i or 4 tt-et water, at their greatest depth, and some parts of them are
quite dry except in the rainy season. From .\ugust to April, these coasts are danger-
ous, on account of the heavy sea upon them, and which makes it iiupossible for a ship
to ride at her anchors; for in that season the F. 8. E. wind blows with great violence for
2 or 3 days before it shil'ts to the north; but in the other months, from April to August,
the navigation is very good and secure; the current always setting to the Uorth and N.
E. which facilitates increasing the latitude ; and although the east winds prevailing from
April to June send in much sea, yet a ship may ride at her anchors in 7 or 8 fathoms, ia
a case of necessity ; in such a sitaation she will be insight of the shore; but if possible,
it will be more advisable to keep under sail. The land breezes are frequent in tfaCfUm-
mer froiu midnight until 9 or 10 in the morning, when they yield to the sea brieze; but
this only takes place so high as 26' degrees of latitude, where the mountain range ter-
minates; all the other parts are very flat, low and swampy ; on which but little tain falls,
which is the chief cause in producing the land winds.
We have followed the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico as far as Tampico, it fac-
ing more convenient to continue on thus far; we will now resume the description of tbe
Gulf, corameacing with Cape Catoche aud ending with Tampico.
284
BI.UNt's A31ERICA!N' COAST PILOT*
OIJLF OF ITiEilCO.
In this Chapter the Bearings are the true.
GtlLF^ or MEXICO. — The Mexican Bay is an immense jrulf, surrounded or ert-
tlosed on allpiirts except on tlie S. H.; the ishuul of ("iibii aiivancinLr considerably to the
West, I'oinis witli tliis S. K. opCriini; two Straits or Channels; one on the sontli with
Cap.e (Jatociic, hy which a coniniiinication is oijcned between the (iiiif and the Carrii)-
bean Sea, and the otiier on the Kast with the Soiiih Coast ot h'lorida, wliicli comtnnni-
cates with the Atlantic Ocean, so that tiiese are the only two routes leading into the
Mexican (iiiif.
CAPK CATOCIIE TO POINT XICALANtiO— The N. E. land or knee of Yu-
catan has several islands at a short distance from it ; these are Cancun. Mu^errs, Rlan-
f|uilla. and Contoy ; th(! last, which is the norlhernniost one, lies about 7 nules I'rom the
main coast; its shore is clear, and voii mav pass at "J miles Croni it, in b (alhonis: be-
tween it and the coast there aj)pears lo be anchorage; but this jjart is iniperiV'rtly known.
The north poiiu of Contoy lies nearly east, true, twelve tniles from ('ape Catocbe.
Cape Catoche lias two islets along its shore, which extend out scarcely a mile from it,
and form with the islaml of .lolvos, two mouths, called .loujou and Nueva, (it for canoes
only. From the said cape the coast bends somewhat to the south of west, for the dis-
tance of IH miles, to the western extreme ol' .lolvos Island, which tonus the liocas del
Conil: this coast is t'onl, having a rocky bank with little water extending; off to the dis-
tance of 2}, miles. Between Jolvos Island and the main, a lake is formed, obstructed by
various islets and jirassy spots, and fit only for canoes.
Krom the Bocr.s de Conil, the coast continues to the W. by N. about fifty miles to the
Rio Lagartos. (Li/.ard River,) whence it inclines \V. l;5° S. the distance of thirly-fivi;
leagues to I'unia Piedras, or Kocky Point. All the coast from Cape Catoche is very
low and (1 U, without any remarkable oljjects upon it. excepiin<; a (,'airn, or little mount
of stones, intentionally raised by the i)assin<; Indians on the very beach of Lagartos, .18
miles W. from Cape Catoche, which may be known by its resemblance to a hat. and the
little woody hills, which are comprised between this and the Vigia, or Lookout, of the
River Lagaltos; next to it is that of Silan, where water may be procured with facility;
to the Lookout ol Silan follows that of Santa Clara, to which succeeds that of Tcl-
cbaac, where, also, water may be procured ; next comes that of ^'gil, then that of Chu-
burna, and to this, finally, the (.'astle of Sisal. None of these Ijookoiils (V'igias) ex-
cept the Cairn of Lagartos, and CastJe of Sisal, can be seen farther olf the shore than
from 6 fathoms of water. From the Cuyo or Cairn at Lagartos, to Clhuburna, you may
anchor without fear in from 4 fathoms outward, but not nearer land, as there are many
atones, shoals, and banks and rocks, which cannot be easily ascertained by the lead, be-
cause they are covered with a coat of sand, and thus they cut the cables, whereby an-
chors are lost; irt addition to which the depth often smhlenly diminishes ujion them, and
therefore vessels are in nmch danger of getting aground, and of being lost.
Ti^e (pastle of Sisal is built on theslion close to the sea. and nearto it are three or
four hoiwes, used for depositing articles ot merchandize, that are transported coastwise,
to be taWen to Merida ; and also for reccivinii the produce sent from Merida and other
inland places of this province. At the castle theie is abundance of water, and it can be
procured with the greatest ease.
Upon Point Piedras there is a little mount, named No-te perderas, (Do not lose your-
self,) which serves for a good mark to know it by, and which is seen from Sisal Shoal, or
at 14 miles off. From tliis point the coast rounds about to the S. W. for thirty miles,
to Point Desconocida, funning the N. W. front of the I'eninsula of Yucatan : this coast,
as well as the former, may be seen well from 5^ fathoms of wafer, and is commonly
named the Palmares; for, among the wood with which it is covered, many Palmitos
(Cabbage Palms) are seen, though there aie none on the other parts of this coast. On
the coast of Palmares no .)ne ought to anchor, for the bottom is of stones covered with
a thincoAt of sand, which deceives the lean.
From Point Desconocida, the coast trends to the south, but rather inclining to the
*ast, true, twenty-two miles, to Las Bocas, (The Mouths,) which are two little inlets
formed by the coast ; in front and very nearto them are two very little islets. From the
Bocas, the coAst continues to the south, with some inclination to the west, true, to the
distance of fifteen miles, or to Jayna, which is another inlet of the coast, at the mouth
of n river;
Kocky) \sl
From J a
distance of
half miles i
The coa.<
farther olf I
breaks, wlii
with the leii
which arise:
and in ;i.^ fa
berth.
J"'r(iin the
to Point .Ml
wards the ci
to« n of Lei
which is iiai
which form
the water is
VI I'alhoms r
ticiilar advic
draught of '
ocean: hcnt
those vessels
In order to d
go to and re
this anehoraj
son blow witi
consequence
To the wes
according to
one who appi
deavor to tak
is the town o
From Poii
it were, a ben
west, and S. (.
treme of the
wide, and hav
two islands, m
ern extremity
this and Poin
two fathoms c
that it is abso
THP: SOI
great shoal, '
and from the c
as well as the
ascertain you
chart to conv
towards the s
having once c
the depths wi
Point Piedras
marked all alo
find the dimin
spit of rocks tl
stones. Fron
Cairn of Lag;
there are vario
The quality
•arity ; for soi
sand with shel
where, as we h
good mark to 1
'^Wny, so as to
nU'NT S AMKRICAX COAST PILOT.
285
nderl or ert-'
rablv lo »li«
soiiih will)
the Carrib-
li tomniuiii-
iiig into the
iinee of Yu-
ijercs, Hliui-
lies tVoni the
athonis: be-
Vt ily known,
•atochc.
mile iVom it,
fit lor canoes
t. for the dis-
ln' Hocas del
}|f to the dis-
obstrueted by '
y miles to the
of thirty-fivt:
itorhe is very
ir little mount
■ La^artos, Dr*
a hit. and thi'
)okont, of the ]
with facility; I
that of Tel- I
[1 that of ('hu- I
s (Xis^ias) ex-
le shore than
ina, you may
ere are many
the lead, be-
I, wherel)y an-
ponthein, and
are three or
ited coastwise,
•ridn and other
and it can be
not lose your-
Sisal Shoal, or
B)r thirty miles,
\n : this coast,
1 is commonly
nany I'ahnitos
his coast. *^'ii
i covered with
nclining to the
vo little inlets
Ets. From the
est, true, to the
at the moulb
of a river; in front of this fhere is atiotlier islet : tliere is also an islet named Picdras (or
Korkv) Islet, hall' way lictwcen the {{ocas and .layna.
From Jayna the coast continues wlili sunie uuiination towards tlie west, true, to the
distance of twenty-one miles, towards the river of .St. !• raiK isco, wliicli is four and a
half miles to the N. K. of Campeche, the only point of t iimiiierce on all tliis coast.
The coast between Point Desconocida and the Kivcr of .St. Francis cannot be seen
farther olf than from .'1 or 4 falhoins dcpiii, and then it appears to the view wiih various
breaks, which look like very low keys; all of it is remarkably shallow and clean, so that,
with the lead in hand, there is not the least danger on the whole of it, excepting that
which arises from the hull of a sunken vessel, which lies to the west of the Isle Piedras,
and in .'ix fathoms of water, to which, vessels navigalini^ in this depth, ought to give a
berth.
From the River fif .'*>t. Francisco, the coast continues to the S. W. for twelve miles,
to Point .Morros, in whic ii space the Castle of .^t. .lose!" is the fust tiling seen; afier-
wards the city of ('ampeche ; to it follows the Castle of .St. Miguel, next conies the
town of Lerma: alter it succeeds a point of the coast extendini; out to the sea, and
which is named Point Martin; the next to it is Point Morros: all this front of coast,
which forms the anchorage of Campeche, may be seen jilainly trom 4j,' fathoms; but
the water is so shallow that you will find .'i.j fathoms at filieeii miles from tlie land, and
Kj I'athoms at 4 miles from it. 'J'his anchorage, therefore, needs no fiilcf, nor any par-
ticular advice for taking it : for, once arrived at the depth convenient for the vessel's
draught of water, you may let go your anchor, remaining as if in the middle of the
ocean: hence rcsulls an immense lalior in (iischarging and loading cargoes; for even
those vessels which can approach nearest to the laml, remain 4', miles distant from it.
In order to diminish this labor, and to nnnage so that boats, lighters, or launches may
go to and return Iroin the sluue under sail, they anchor to the west of the tower. In
this anchorage, althoiiuh open entirely to the north and N. W. winds, which in the sea-
son l)low with great force, there is not any thing to fear, for they do not raise any sea of
consequence, and vessels remain al anchor with sufficient safely.
To the west of Point Morros, and rather ukmc to the south, it is not so shallow; and,
according to information, 4 fathoms may be tonnd there, at a league from the land. Any
one who ap|iroaches this coast, with the object of wooding and watering, ought to en-
deavor to take this last anchorage, in the vicinity of which, and somewhai to the south,
is the town ot Cliarnpoton, where they may provide themselves with the articles required.
From Point Morros, the coast trends S. 'J.5° VV. .3t> miles to Point .lavinal, forming, as
it were, a bend in the coast : as it approaches the latter point, the land trends more to the
west, and S.(»0" \V. 61 miles distant from it is Point Xicalango, which is the western ex-
treme of the Lagoon or Lake of 'J'crminos. I'his Lagoon is a great bay, about 40 miles
wide, and having about .'50 miles of bight : between its two outer and extreme points are
two islands, which shelter it; the western, named Carmen, is the largest. At the west-
ern extremity of Carmen is a garrison, named that of ."^an Felip (.St. Philip.) Between
this and Point Xicalango is the principal entrance to the I^agoon, with rather more than
two fathoms of depth, and of it we are informed only that it is very difficult to enter, and
that it is absolutelv necessary to have a pilot.
THP: SOIJNDINCS OR RANK OF CAMPKCHE.— The Campeche Bank is a
great shoal, which extends from the north coast of 'i'licataii almost as far as lat. 24°,
and from the coast of ('ainpeche, to the west, as far as the meriilian of 92° 30'; the depth
as well as the quality of the soundings on it are so uncertain, that it is not poMlble to
ascertain your situation on it by the lead ; it will be sufficient to take a glance at the
chart to convince yourself of this fact; nevertheless, the soundings from 18 fatboma
towards the shore are so regular, that you may navigate along it with all safety; for
having once caught that depth, which you will find at 10 or 12 leagues from the coast,
the depths will be found to run uniformly with ilie coast until you are to the N. W. of
Point Piedras, when it suddenly diminishes two fathoms. The same regularity is re-
marked all along these soundings, from 18 fathoms to 4 fathoms; and you will always
find the diminution to the N. W. of Point Piedras, which is undoubtedly caused by some
spit of rocks that extends out from the point ; for upon it the soundings are always on
stones. From 4 fathoms to the shore, in all the tract of coast between the Cayo or
Cairn of Lagartos and the Lookout Tower of Chuburna, we have already said that
there are various stones am. shoals, most perilous to navigation.
The quality of soundings, from 18 fathoms towards the shore, does not preserve regu-
larity ; for sometimes it is gray sand with gravel, at others gravel alone, and at others
sand with shells, and coral; thus it alternates until to the N. W. of Point Piedras,
where, as we have already said, the soundings are on stone or rock, which noake a very
good mark to know a vessel's situation by, and to enable her to shape a course with ite-
curity, so as to pass between the Triangles and New Shoal, (Thangulo y Baxo Nuevoi)
E
286
BLUXT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
wliicli is the rhaiiin'l lli;it on;:lit to l)c iircrciinl lor iiiiitiina ollllif hnnk on Its wrstprn
side ; but it is siill lnttt.'r li> ;t>ciMt;iiii ilu' vt'<isfi'.s phicr l>_v tin- cum --(mvIiu'Ii is iici-cssiuy
to preserve tlie depth oC 18 iHthoiiis; lor, i( ymi retiiiii that, sfeerin:; W. by S. it is a
prooCtliat you are between tlie ineriiliiius coiiiprcliendiMi lietneeii llie (.'aim of [ja^artos
and I'oiiit I'iedras; hut, it yuii aiiLiineiil tiie dcplli on tiiis ciiiir'^e, it is ne<e«*sary to
chani;e»it to W. S. W. and S. \V'., il is a pntof ih.il ymi liave passed the nii'ridi.ni I'oint
I'iedias, and that yon arc abiear-t ortl'c N. \\'. iVnril of ihi <'(iast. i.r bciwci-n I'ltmt I'n'.
dras atid I'oint J)es(onoeida ; ai d, (inallv. il, in urtler !> < 'ain the same di'iuh, yoii are
objiijed to steer soiitli. von need not doubi that yon Inive ssed, or are at least al)reast
of, or on thepaiaiiel ol. i'liint Deseonociila. What we h said oC IH fathoms depth
applies also to any lesser diptli on tliis eonsl ; but on the rest of the sonndim^s, or bank,
that is, from 1h io ■,»() fiuhonis. into deepi-r wiitcr, ilnTe is no rc^ulariiy whatever, either
in the depth of water or iiuahty of yonndin^s, espeeially on tlie north part of it ; and
tliis iiccessarilv lollows, tor it is sown witii stioals most dangerous to navigation, of whieli
we shall speak in order.
IJaxodcl Corsario (the I'rivnieer I'ank) has been explored by Don Ciriaeo de Ceval-
los and Don .loan Lo])e/, de Annilla. Il extends .\. N. W . i\un\ the west | dinl td' llic
island .lolvas, and has near it 10 I'athotiis water; there are breakers on it only when there
is a heavy .sea.
The last edition of the " Derrotcro de las Antilias." says, the shallowest part of the
Corsario Hank, is situated, ac-cordiii;; to the siu\e\ of Don Ciriaeo Cevallos, in lat. L'l ^
37' 30", and lon.t;. ^l'^ ].'<' :ili ', Irom (ireenwich, tiivinc it an extent cf li miles from east
to west, and about half a nile from north to soiitli; its west end beinj; on the meridian
of the west end of .lolvas Island, four and a half miles distant. 'Piie shoal has been ex-
amined by the pilot Josef lionzales Rn'/. wiio sjives tlie lollowinir deseription :
" 'J'he ('orsaiio Shoal is a rocky s|)il, whieli begins to the (vishmrd of .Mos(|nilos I'oint,
with a turn of about 3 Icasines to the north and to the wesiwani of that point ; it ex-
tends about N. \V. by N. to that or rather a less dtstanee, and ends in 7 or H fathoms el'
water. All this bank is of roeky spot>;, which shoalen towards ihe land.nniil, at about 3'-
iTiiles from Mos(|Mitos I'oint, at that distance there is a shoal exteiidin;; about 'J miles
east and west, and less than half a mile in breadlli. This slio;d, at low waler, has r* and
9 feet of water ; and, at hii;li water, 10 mid 1 1 i'eet. .'<ome ol' the rocks i isc hi.'zher than
others. 'J'he shoal is of mueara roidi, with black spots, and som<' red ones, which seem
t'j be spoiifres. Those spots farthest to the east bear from the west part (d' the island,
(which is distant 'J leafjues from Moscpiiios I'oint.) N. N. E." It may be observed that
the situations p;iven by this pilot do not accord wiih those of Cevallos, and the latter arc
supposed to be entitled to the <.'iealer conlidence.
SISAL SflOAfi.— The "Derrotcro de las Antilias." says, "This shoal was sousrht
for and found by Don Ciriaeo Cevallos, on rnnnini,' from the anchera^e at Sisal. lie
says, the least water on it is '-' lathoms, accordinii to the traditionary inlbrmation of the
people of the country; but he could find only It* feet, surrounded, very near, on all
sides, by 6, 8, and ') talhoins. IJetween it and the ('ontisiious lands ol" the continent is n
chf.-iiiol of 12 miles, fit for the larciest vessels. It is true, when he found IH leet. we
were ignorant of the state of the tiile, wiiich. at that time, rose from 3 to 4 fei't at Idgli
Wiitcr. From the shoal iMount No-teperd"ra.s (i. e. Don't lose yoursrlf) bears true S.
7° K. 14 miles; and this mount is the best mark of keeping clear of it, whether passing
to the ndrthward or southward."
This sboal was surveyed by Mr. C. Brown, master of his Britannic Majesty's ship
Baun, hi 1819. It is seven eijihths of a mile in length, nearly S. E. and N. W., and a
quarter of a mile wide. It has several vo( ky pad iies, with 'Jr.- a 2' fathoms on them;
and one, which is the shallowest, wiili only 1' fathom on it. The latter is nearly one-
third of a mile from its S. E. end. Here are 5, 6, and 7 fathoms within a cable's length
of it all around.
The Alacran is a shoal of great extent. In its south part there is a little safe and
well sheltered harbor, in which vessels drawing 11 feet may anchor. This harbor is
frequented only by the Campeche coasters, who make oil fiom the immense (juantity of
fish which they find here. All others ought to shun the proximities of the shoal ; no
one should ever sail hereabout, from the east to the west, in 1?6 fathoms depth or up-
wards, but shouW always pass in from 18 to 'JO fathoms. The situation of this shoal has
been well ascertained by the survey of Don Ciraco de Cevallos, who says, the shoal ex-
tends 14 miles f'om north to south, and 11 from east to vest. The islets upon its
southern part are named Perez, Chica, and Pajaros, and it has various banks and reefs
rising more or less above the surface of the water. The harbor is formed by the reefs,
which extend around Perez and Pajaros. At its entrance the depth is from 2.7 to 6i
fdthoms, and farther in, from 2i to 7 fathoms. The best anchorage is to the eastward
of the middle of Perez Isle, in G fathoms, on sand and shells, having to the south (be
• t
rocky bank,
about six ca
The Arc,
thesoulheri
by N. 27 le
may be eiite
care than to
by bringing
middle of th
which rniiso
the aiuhorai
lar:,'est islam
extend tVoni
from the sou
forins the tri
width.
The weste
1', cables' le
tending to th
anchorage is
ill it tor all c
himself well
TheS. E.
length in brc;
channel of tw
vel, by whicl
tr;mce to the
The Cabe/,
one fathom o
About N. •
small extent,
there is some
miles ofV, by i
Its situation
water on it, ai
causes the set
The Placer N
and to this, al
To the iiort
islets, lying a
They are visit
it improper to
N. W. of the
of about half
out a spil !.) til
situation of tl
las Antilias sa
four miles. I
from each oth
easternmost, v
and middle oi
gravel and ro
water, first to
in length. F:
distance.
" The soui
two miles E. I
tenths of a mi
sand and grav^
of a mile tu tl
To the \V. S.
A sand bani
Campeche Ba
ficer says. " ai
beam, bearing
about N. VV.
ULINT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
287
r>n its wpnt«»rn
I is iicccMNiirv
by S. it is ;i
n u(° La^iirion
ii<'<f*'<s;ii V to
K'l'iiiiaii i'liiiit
I'll I'oilit I'lf.
Icpili, yoii lire
li'iist jihreast
illioiiiK (l(>|ilh
iiu!s, or l);iiik,
i;ii<'vi'r, eiilicr
t ol it ; iitid
lion, orwliieii
1(0 tie Ceviil-
t |dinl ol' ilip
i) wlitn ilicru
'St part of the
OS, ill lilt. 'J]-*
lilps from e;>.st
tilt' iiieritlimj
has been ex-
ion :
*'|uito8 Point,
point ; it cx-
■ H liithoms of
il. at aiiout 3';
ihoiit 'J miles
ler. has r" iinil
f lii.'jhrr iliiui
•, wliicji senn
of tlu' isliiiul,
observed liiiit
lilt- latter are
il uas sousrlit
t Sisal. He
ation of the
near, on ail
continent is a
If^ feet, wc
foi't at liiffh
lears true S.
>ther passing
ajesty's ship
. W., and a
ms on them;
nearly onc-
iible's length
ttle safe atid
lis harbor is
(luantity of
c shoal ; no
lepth or up-
lis shoal lias
he shoal ex-
ts upon its
ks and reefs
by the reefs,
in 2^ to 64
he eastward
le south the
rocky bank, which extends from the .S. W. end of that inlc towards the E. and K. S. E.
about six cables' lenj;lh."
'I'lie Areas are three islets, which may be sen at the distance of ,"> miles. They nre
the southernmost upon the western edu'e of these soundiiiji's, and lie almost nearly W.
by N. '.'T leau;ues Ironi Campeche. They form of themselves a t;o(id liirbor, which
may be entered on the N. W. or .S. side, ;is is iimst convenient, and uiihout any other
care than to avoid the spits stretchiiii; trom them. 'I'lie N. W. entrance may be taken
bv brm^iiiU lb" south part of the N. K. is| nd (which is also the largest) oil with the
iriiddle of the S. E. island, bearing nearly .S. E. by E. ; this will carry you cb-iir of n spit
which runs out to the N. W.of the j;ieater island, and which is the object that shi'llers
the aiicli(irai;e from the northerly swell. To t nier by the south passage between the
lar:;est island and the wi'sleriiiiiost island, you oimlit to lie caretui to avoirl the reels that
extend iVom the lar;;(' island to tin; S. and io the W. N. \V., forming a shoal which bears
from the south extremity of the said i>land N. W. \ W. near half a mile; and which
forms the true channel between that and the westernmost area, of two cables' length in
width.
'I'lie westernmost island sends off reefs to the W. N. W. and W. S. W.; also at Q and
1', cables' length from the norih point td the lar^e islands there are three foul reefs ex-
hI tendinis to the west, the larihest of which is 4 cables' leimth from the said point. This
mm jiMchorai;e is very superior in northerly '•ales to that oft 'ampeche; and as there is depth
in it (or all classes of vessels, he who under such circumstances, can catch it, will find
himself well sheltered and secure.
The .S. E. Area is surrounded by reefs, separated from it by a space of about n cable's
leii;;th in breadth. Tliis islet, witli i)ie reefs at the S. E. part of the large one, form a
channel of two short cables' h'lijith, with trom .') to 1') fathoms, on sand, stone, und gra-
vel, by which, in case id' necessity, and according; to the situation a vessel is in, an en-
trance to the anciiorai^e may be ailempted.
Tilt! Cabezo.a heati rock, which lies i:',\ miles to the S. W. of tlie Areas, having only
one fathom over if, must be cautiously avoirled.
About N. 40° W. from the Areas, at the distance of 7 leajjues, there is a shoal of
small extent, named the IJaxo del Obispo, (the Mishop's .^hoal,) on which it appears
there is stune rt.ck that may be seen, but which cannot be tliscovered at more tlian two
miles oil', by tlav, in clear weather, and with yreat vi;;ilaiice.
Its sitiiation has been well ascertained, and to be a (iat rock or stone, with 5 fathoms of
water on it, and so steep that up and tlown at its ed<;e, there are J.') fathoms ; ami this
causes the sea to break heavily tin it : wlnrefore, at all e\eijts, it shoiiltl be avoided.
The Placer Nuevo, lies ;> h-a^ues N. HO' E. from the Ubispo ; on it there are •) fathoms,
anil to this, also, a berth oiiulit to lie ;;iven.
To tlie iiortli of the Obispti, is the Triansjle, (El Triangulo.) which consists of three
islets, lying about N. E. and S. \\'.. in which tlir('ctit)n they extend about seven miles.
They are visilile at seven miles distance, and send out spits and shallows, which render
it improper to (lass betwi>eri them, or to approach them nearer than two miles to the W.
N. W. of the northernmost. At six inik's trom the latter, there is another islet of sand,
of about half a mile in extent, which is very clear on the south part, and which sends
out a spil ;., tl,c north : it is very low, and i'' covered with birds and some drift wood. The
situation of these islanils has. also, been act uralcly ascerlainetl, anil the Derrotero de
las Antillas says the Triangle lies to the north of the < »i)ispo, at the distance of twenty-
four miles. Itis comptiseit of three islets, of which the twt» eastern are two miles distant
from each other, but they are connected by reefs. The westernmost bears ffom the
easternmost, which is the largest, N. 7.')' \V. eight long miles; and between the%e]rteru
antl midtlle one is a clianiiel. six miles broail, having from 17 to .30 fathoms, on kand,
gravel ami rock. From tlie easternmost islet a reef exteinls, with a large rock above
water, first to the N. N. E. and then to the N. W. forming a bow or crescent, two miles
in length. From the north and east of the western islantj, shoals also extend to a short
distance.
"The soundings in the vicinity of the Triangle are IH fathoms, on fine sand, at
two miles E. by S. from the larger islet; 2.3 fathoms, sanil, gravel and rock, at seven-
tentlis of a mile ; 2U fathoms, sand and clay, at nearly a mile to the S. E.; 18 fathoms,
sand and gravel, at i cables' length to the south ; 1') fathoms, from three to six tenths
of a inile to the south of the reefs which connect the eastern island to the middle one.
To the \V. S. \V. of the miildle are I't fathoms, on sand and gravel."
A sand bank, lying about N. \V. about .') miles frtun the westernmost Triangle, on the
Campeche Bank, was iliscovereil by Capt. .lames, of the British ship Sprey. This of-
ficer says, " at 4 P. M. he saw the Triangle Shoals from the mast head on the larboard
beam, bearing S. VV. i S. about H miles: shortly afterwards saw a sand bank lying
about N. \V. from them. At 5 1 pas-sed them ou the north side, and found it to lie in
imM
28b
BLUNT's AMF.mCAN COAsT IMI.OT.
lat. -.'P 2' N.. long. Ol" I'J' :W' \V, 'Dm l»«nk U very low, with a nnii«« of brrnUpm
l\in.; out to (lie tioriliwiird. It Ii;im a liiiiiniiiiik in tin; iiihIiIIi' like a !<iii:iII lint, nnd may
bf !*»'eii I miles in rlciir wiMtlicr Iroiii ilir iiiiiHi Innitl. I tnt'il l<ir ••oiiiiiIimk^ nt the Jii-
taiiL'u uf it iiiilfH iiorlli li'iiiii llii> li;iiil\, with ii lim- o( .'I'l rillioiiii, witlioiti uettin'Z Ixittoin.
It iiiii!il be tlini'lorp vers (laiit;«'roiM in piissin;,' this bank at ni^lit, or tiveii in tikiok we.i.
tlu'r in iluytiiiir, wiilKiiii bcinu <|nili' sure of the laiiindt' anil litnuitiiili'.
'riip Uajo NVnvo (New Midi!) is a lnail ol saml, wliicli slnivvs at low wntt»r, with va-
rious rocks, wliiih also sliow a liiilf. 'The si-a breaks ii|i(iii il in ordinary bree/.us, and
it ii« so Nteep that '.*.) lathonis are loiiiid at hall a mile Iroiii its western head. This shoal
i* hardly ot'tliR extent ot' a eable and a halt Iriiin north to south, and lour cnbleit Ironi
east to west. Its niven sirii;iiion is, as yet. ralln-r donbU'iil : tor the observations of lati-
tude made in the two ships ol the Spanish hire, San Leandro and l)ra<;on, when the latter
was lost on it, diller mix minutes — beiim, accordim; to the one, in Jl ■'in , and aecordint;
to the other, in'.'l It'. Its lon<{iliide, althuuKh not deduced t'roin particular observaliuns
made on the spot, cannot vary much from the truth. The shoal has been [ilaced by
Don F. liau/.a in his new chart, in lat. '.'1 .jO ,and long. 'il. ')(>', which is, we presume,
correct.
l.SLA AKKNAS (.Sandy Inland.) — Cevallos has determined the situation of the isl-
and, wliich is J-,' ' H' N. ami '»! H) W. 'i'his isle is low, and furiiis nearly a parallelo-
gram, in the direction of N. 4rt^ K. to S. 4H^ W. true, ."l miles, its Kreate.st breadth be-
inu; 'J. It is foul all round, and a creat stony spit extends from its north end, with some
rocks above water, to N. .'I')" VV. and N. b'l \V., true, ;) miles. Krom the 8. W. part
another, of a like kind, extends \. dj^ W. and .S. -'( \V., true, h and ') miles. Hetween
the reefs there is a <;ood liarbor.-lo the W. N. W. of the island, sheltered from the winds
from the north, round by H. to N. W. with a de|)th of 3{ fathoms at *.* miles from the
island to (>', between the points of the reefs.
ISLA.NI) HKK.MI.IA. — This, as placed in the old charts, is of very doubtful exist-
ence. The liieiitenants of the Navy. Don .>Iimiel Aiiderele and Don Andres Val-
derrama, in their iiii|iiiries in seaixii of the Neurillo did not sec if. The same happened
to Don (-'irciuo de ("evallos in .Inly, 1804, who purposely searched for it, for which rea-
son we believe its existence is not true. Nevertheless, we have placed it in the chart in
latitude 'J',*'^ ;t3' and longitude ri.j ' ft' west of Cadi/,, ('il^ 'JJ' west of (Jreenwich,) until
more elaborate surveys in every respect decide whether it exists or not.
The Negrillo is a shoal spoken of by all who navigate these seas, but no one has been
able to i;ive the exact position of it. In the ship of the line San .fulien, conimaiided by
D. .luan de .loaquin Moreno, tlie deposition of the gunner D. Manuel Sandoval, was
taken, in which lie declared that bein^'on board the shi|) of the line Uiien Consejo, com-
manded by D. .roa(|uiii Olivares, on his voyage (rom Vera Cruz to the Havana, and on
the ninth day after sailing from the |mrt at 'J 1*. M. they saw breakers ; that having sent
■ boat in which the deponent went as bowman to examine the spot, they discovered a
rock of about half a boat's length of extent ; and that he held on it with a boat hook,
while others sounded over the stern with I'.'d fathoms without finding bottom, and which
was repeated with equal diligen<;e all round the rock with similar results; that over the
rock there were not more than .i or 4 palms depth of water ; and that he heard the ot-
flcers and pilots of the ship say tliat this must have been the Negrillo Shoal. In con-
sequence of this declaration we have made many elforts to obtain this ship's log book,
but without success.
'Aldcreteand Valderrama in their expedition of 1T7.') had the discovery of this shoal as
their principal object, but they were iinible to find it. alter cnii/.ing in all directions as-
stgaecilo it by old charts ; but from a declaration Iroin a seaman who had navigated tlie
Gulf. of Mexico many years, taken at \'era Cru/. by Don Toinas Ugarte, that going in a
Private brig, and having observed and jiassed to the westward in the alternoon, they sailed
(. W. for 30 or 40 miles, and then hove to, two hours before day-break, to avoid, as he
heard the Captain say, crossing the parallel of tiie Negrillo in the dark. At daylight
they found themselves drifted into a channel or canal between two shoals about a ca-
ble's, length wide and without soundings, which the Captain said was the Negrillo. From
this information, laying it down on the chart, and allowing the same dilference as for the
Alacran, the result is, that the shoal must be in latitude 123^ -2' and longitude of 83° 53'
W. of Cadiz, (90° 10' W. of (heenwich.) a point certainly out of the tracts in which
Alderete and Valderrama cruized for it, and consequently leaves us without surprise at
l^ir not finding it.
There is another very confused account of an extensive ihoal which was discovered in
the year 1768 by the pilot .Juan de llita Sala/.ar, in the Hilander Poder do Dios, whose
journal was examined at the IJavana by command of Don Juan Antonio de la ('olina;
we do not possess the journal itself; but we have the report made by the pilots who were
conuniMiooed to examine it, from which nothing more can be deduced than that the ves^
«el niilfd fronl
ler lor the H if
and about '■>
(pnirter «<» "••<'|
iuK« in 3.' I') I hi
when the ob«»|
sleereil .N. K.
.",i)m. I'. M. »|
itnrhored ai.d
fiuduikT nothmj
time he !{"• ml
patrln»i>l -Op
iniiHi be the N.|
sand ; mIi'-h r'-
had 37 lalhom
From this iHir.
to t.J fathoms <J
that l)y noon. i|
course, he kejl
toin, on which I
bottom, still ai'
foin 111 the obst
iia's, which he
h'rom all till
by this vessel,
liie Kaiik exier
lint little know:
."siiHf this 1
transmitted th)
ol' the schoone
111 latitude -.'3
observed, and I
as deduced Inn
of \'era Cru/.
than a rock of a
except at the l«
within a cable ai
be found at 70 I
iJesides these
cently rliscovert
The fust, wli
tenant of the S|
antine Argus: i
then in latitude
which on exam
directions, witli
heavily, alihuiie
the cominandar
by lunar di-tanc
ami referred to
This shoal apjn
Don Narcisso I
C^ampeche to N
have more com
sailing on thisp
Don Manuel
sailing from Vc
her, 1817, at Ha
ing smooth, am
a shoal, the ext
N. E. and S. M
and his dist:mr
sounfled and fo
with his boat, h
the shoal ; but
lengiu of the da
BIAM's AMKFnCAN COAST Hfl.OT.
289
of brenkern
lilt, nnd inay
K at tlie (Jin-
tintt Ixittnin.
II tlii(<k we.i-
U'T, with va-
brce/fs, itiid
This xhoiil
(Mlllpi tioiii
tioiiM lit' lali-
K-n tilt' l:iiif>r
1(1 iircordiii^
oliHervHiiuiig
•n |)la(f>(| hy
ve |)r»"»unn\
1 <»f the isl-
n pniiilleio-
bri*ii(l;h be-
I, with some
S. W. part
"S. HctWOftJ
III the winds
les t'ruiii the
ibffiil pxist-
\ndroM V^ii-
10 h.-ippeiifd
r whifli re,\-
thi- chHit in
wich,) until
lie has been
iiiiaiided i)y
nddval, was
ii.st'jd, rniii-
aiia, and on
having sent
iscovered a
boat hook,
and which
It over the
rd the of-
In con-
log book,
is shoal as
ections as-
i,!;ated the
i!oin,i; in a
hey sailed
void, lis he
k.t daylight
loiit a ca-
ilo. Krnin
as ("or tlie
of8.'{° 53'
in which
surprise at
overcd in
OS, whose
a (/olinn;
who were
It the veso
ael Hilled (rttm ihc Kn»ifrn edge of f 'aiiipprhe •Suiindinei on coiinie<i in tho N. K, «niar-
ter tor lh«> liav.ina, Mhi(hcr<«he was biMiiid. (Mi the third d:i\ sin- w,i<t in l.ilitiide Jl '.'',
and about '■'>" li-.tzn't W . Ii> S. frtiiii the 'I'ortiiiAas, and xtiirrd on cniirM-. in tin- S. l- .
i|iurtrr to niiikr thi- land oi Cuba; at :< I'. ;M. Iiiidiiig liiiii.'>) It Dn ilic < aiiipcihe Sounu-
um* in :i.' r.iilii>iii<i, h** siond N. N. K. incrcaKin^ the ijepih iiniil ilit- noon m the i>ih day,
uhcii tlir oli«<n«'d lat.liide was V.*.'! 1 ■') , and tlie depth ih I itliDiiit. I'roiii iiiK spot he
uterred N- K. willi li^lit t«inds ineliniii;; to i aim, keepint; the same Miiiiidin;:H until 111.
.'iOiii. I*. M- "Im-ii he '•iiildenly siiiialed tii I,'! lallMiiiis nti roeky iiniioiii ; he imiiiedialelv
anrlnired aiid remained iiniil liie iiioriiin^, when, alter exaiiiiiiinu ■< '•^'* I'lr ><** lie emild, and
lindint; iiolhine ilancenuiN, lie wrii.'tied and stood N. K. .soimdiii;; tVe(|iiently. In a ^lll(rt
tune be i{ol into 5', ladnims and saw at the liiittoiii threat heads nl lilaek rocks wiili suine
paleln sol »and. I le then sitcred eastward In uet ( iear <il the slmil, w lileh he eoiijef lured
must be the .Ne.'rillo. .'^landin^ on this emiise at llie end id two limirs he had |i> taihoiiis,
Hand: when re<»uiiiin^ a N. K. oiirsc, the depili iiirreasiMl to i^.'i lallioiiis, and at noun liu
had .1' latltonio on rutky bottom, the latitude by a i^ood observation then beini; >.( J^'.
I'roiii thin noun until day break on the ^<ili day the .siiiindiiius were irr< uiilar, Iroiii .1.5
to 4.1 tatliotiin on rui ky boltoni, w hen he t^ot iipun sand, and sn ihikIi inrre.i>ed the depth
that by noun, on o!<sertiiiu. in lalitiide -j:; Id , he hail d^ ratiiniiis, and with a N. N. K.
course, he kept the same depth until iiiidiii;;lit, wlini lie I'oiind '.io tiahoiiis rocky bot-
tom, on which he eontiiiued iinnl day break, when he tonnd more water and a sandy
bottom, still aumiientiiJi: ilie depth iiiiiil mion, when lie had l.')U lathoms on sandy bot<
toiii III the observed laiiiiide -,'4 .'i' ; wiiem c lit- shaped a < (luise lor the Toftugas ^iuund%
ini's. which he rea<-hi'<l < oireeiiy. according lo his reckoning;.
h'roiii all this aiiibii:iioiis narrative we can only coMei t tiiat the soiitidiii;:^ ran through
by this vessel, was Iroiii the iieridiaii of the Alaeran to the Kaslward; tlial the • d^e of
the Kank extendi »•< far as '..'4 ol latitude, and that tiierc are muiiij .^Itoitli on it, certainly
bill little known, and ver\ dangerous to navi;;ali'iii.
.*siiire this part ol' the presiu work was wntieii, Ca[)tain Don (,'iriaco C'evallos has
transmitted the pro< ess \i'rbal and declaration made by Don iJomi'io de ( 'asals. ca|>tain
of the schooner V'iljabonesa. who saw it on the llthday ol November. I-iKj, at .'5 I*. .M.
in latitude •,».'; -,'.'>', detlncetl Irom the latitude at noon, that was carel'ully and correctly
observed, and longitude fi '.)') 'M" West ol't'adi/., or ~') ' .')') ;!1" West id (ireenwich,
as deduced i'ruin the fioints ol departure Irom tlr' ('ampeche .'<<oiiiidiii^s and the making
ol \'cra Cruz. A<coriiiim to the description ^iven by lie ('aptaiii, this shoal is no more
than a rock of a <ju;«rter of a cable in extent N. K. and .S. W. over which the water washes,
except at the two extremities. v<!ii(li show a little; these could not be seen before getting
within a cable and a hall ol ilieiii ; and at less than n cable's length Irom it no bottom could
be found at 70 fathoms
JSesides these shuaN, wliich are known on the oldest charts, others have been more re-t
centiv discovered : of wliich we have the fojlowiim notices; —
The lirsi, which we have disiiiiuuislK d by the name of tlie Arjz'is. was seen by a lieu-,
ienant of the .''^panidi navy, Don .Sebastian Hodritjiie/, di! Aria-i, coiiimandant of the brig-
antine Arirus: in sailini: from \era("rii/. to llav.ii,!. at J V. .M. 1 1 tli id July, I'JlH, being
then in latitude -,'4 'J', and loiiuiiiide H') 4'} , W. (from (iiecinviih) discovered a breaker,
which on examination, disclosed a small bank, of about a cabl' and a lialPs length in all
directions, with a breaker of from 1"J to 15 fathoms, the centre, on which the water broke
heavily, altliuiigh the sea was otherwise very smooth, and tlie wind very calm. At mid-day
the commandant had observed in latitude ','1 4'; and at .") I*. .M. he found the longitude,
by lunar distances. -'* o'l'. both observations to be depeniled on. and corrected to 2 P.M.
and referred to the situation of the shoal, he made it in lat. ",'4 '.i' ."50" and long. 89 41'.
This shoal apfiearii to be the same which was seen on the l')th of November, 1800 by
Don Narcisso Kiera. captain of the Spaiiisli iiiercliaMt schooner f'atalina, bound from
Campeche to New-t.)rleans: hut as his longitude was deiliiced from dead reckoning, w^
have more confident e in the position assiiiiied to it by Arias; nevertheless navigatort
sailing on this panillel, ou:;ht to be on their gaurd lest the two dans;ers should really exist,
Don Manuel Bu/.o. pilot of the Spanish bombard Xuestra Senora del Carmen, in
sailing from Vera Cruz and Terminos Lagoon, towards Havana, on the 8lh of Decem»
ber, 1817, at day-break, saw a breaker or rock oiVtlie starlioard gangway. The sea be-
ing smooth, and the wind moderate from the eastwanl, there was no doubt of its being
a shoal, the extent of v»hich he estimated at from two to three cables' length, extending
N. E. and .S. W. ; and on its ends he saw two rocks or pinnacles, about three feet high,
and his dist^mce from it was from three to three and a hall cables' length, where he
sounded and found no bottom in Ul fathoms ; and although he thought to examine it
with his boat, he could not etl'ect it, on account of the heavy break in the vicinity of
the shoal : but he saw the spit of rocks of which it was composed, running the whole
lengiu of the danger. Haviug corrected his reckoning for bh. A. M., the hour at whicb
37
290
KLUIVt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
m
he saw the shoal, he fomid it lay in iutiluiie lM^ (>', and loii^itiulr 01° 6' W of Green-
wich. At noon, lie oli ieivcd in jat. -4^ L'J', with ccrlainiy, and this was oidy one minute
nortli of liis I). K., and icfcriin;; liii.s to the slioal, l)y his rnn for (> lionis. lie found its
latitude by tliis to be 'J4 - 7', and long. HI- 4'>' W. ol" t'adi/. ; nor eoiiht there be any
considerabh- error in liis reckoning, in three days sailing from the V'igia of C'huxvilu, off
which he had been at anchor.
This shoal a|)])eais to lie dilicrent from the I'ormcr. ahhoiigh its latitude is so nearly
the same. The .short time wliich inleiAcncd iietweer) his de|)arlnre from the Visjia of
Chuxtdu and his makinij of the 'l'ortn,i;as iJank, ulien he found only thirteen ininnits
of error in his longitude i)y dead reckoninjx, shows that its situation as to loiii^itnde can-
not be maloriallN wronj;. 'J'he shape and eircunislances of the shoal, as described by
Bozo, also show it to lie different. Many old charts indicate a danger, with tlie word
doubtful, almost in the same position, which also tends to confirm the belief of its ex-
istence.
In [)eeember, l-^Ol, Don Dioiiisio (ialiano passed over an extensive sand bank, exhi-
bited on the new charts, which lies alxait '24 leaj^ues to the eastward ot' the Negrillo,
and haviin; on its S. W. y.nt If)', fathoms. As it does not appear to be dangerous, it
re(|iiires no tiirtlier (ii-criplion. The situation seems well asceriained.
These are tlu- shoals which down to the present time have been known as existing
on the {"amjieclie Hank of Soundiiius. IJr- u ho navigates on it in Iri fathoms, will go
clear of the ("orsario, Alacraiu's, and Sisal Keels, anil in a secure track for passing
through the cliaimels formed by the shoals on the western edge. Oi'all these chaimels
the best is that between •,>!- and 'J",' . formed Ijy the Triangle and New Shoal, (Rnjci
Nueva,) because it is ihe clcan-st, and we recommend it always to be taken by those
bound to the west. The soundings « hich condiu-t the mariner through the middle of
it, and clear ol the slnjals on each side, are toleiably regular ; for, after he is to llie
north-west of I'oint I'u'dras, in lat, •,'1'-' 40'. and havmi: between "JO and i'5 fathoms wa-
ter on fnie sand, if he coniinnes his course \\'. S. W. and W. by .S., true, 18, '22, and -Jj
fathoms water, on hue while sand, will be foimd ; and slill contimiing to the westward,
in lat. '21" '20'. there will be foimd ."30, 4'J, o.'), and 7."] fathoms, on mud and soft ooze;
and at a little distance farther you will be outside of the western edge, and clear of ilip
rc^ks. In the (irsi (harts thi>. were |)nbiished in the Ilydrographical Dirc'ory, and in
tht first edition ol' Derrotero, it is said, — •• About the middle of this chani;! > there is a
bank with 2() lathoins water, on hard sand and gravel, having a patch ofro<'k of ') fathoms,
which generally cieated some alarm to tlu)se who sounded on it. from exciting a sus-
picion of being iti tlie proximity ( f some of the shoals." A ording to the last sound-
ings and survey madt; in tins |)assatie, a bank of '.'4 fathoms, -ravel, is placed in the lati-
tude'21^ 2()'',M", and du tlu' meridian of the New Shoal, (l>ajo Nuevo.) without giving
notice of the above (|Ui)led bank, which perhaps may exist. The chart published in
1799, places it iirJlo'2U' latitude, and longitiule 91'^ 44' west of (Iveenwich.
Directions for luirii^i 'i/ia on the Camprche Sou7idini!s.
CAMPECHK SOUNDINHS.— .Tt i^ undoubted that the eastern edge of this bank
is an excellent corrector for the longitude of a ship: inasmm-h as it runs nearly north
or south, every one who gets soundings mi this edge may consider himself as in 8^° '20'
W. of Greenwich: and thus, those who sail from the eastward, to enter on the sound-
ings or bank, ouglit to sound fret|Menily, in orfler to ci'tch bottom at the edge, or in it<
proximity, in order to iiave this correction of longitude.
But this excellent means ol' reciilyinu; the longitude ceases to be so whentlierci«
great uncertainty in the latitude ; for, as the water between Cape Antonio and Cape Ca-
toche at times runs to the northward at the rate of 3 miles in an hour, it is necessary to
allow for this, so as to enter on the sou'idintrs in a convenieiu parallel, that you makr a
course to the S. W. ; and it is clear, that l.y steering abon'. S. \V. you may not only gel
soundings on tlie eastern etige, hut on the Tiorthern also, \i) which case, having no cer-
tainty of the longitude, it would he very dauierous to direct the sul)se(]uent navigation
by making courses to the .S. \V. in (Uiler to (ditain the de[)th of IH fathoms, and to pass
at a proper distance to the east of ilie Alacraiu's, Such an attempt was the cause ol the
loss of a merchant vessel named the St. Rafael, which got aground on the eastern ex-
tremity of the Alacran Keel's, from which the other vessels of the same convoy, escort-
ed by the shin of the line, SaiUiago la ICspana, passed about two miles clear. This lo,ss,
which happened in 17").'), authorizes us in recording it, and in pointing out the neces-
sary means of jirfventing similar mistakes in luture.
Once on the b; nk of soumlings, and having ascertained your latitude or situation on its
eastern edge, you may make the rest of the navigatioti by it with much security; for.
placed ou it, yoii have a mean of keeping a very ctact reckoning, and free/rom the errors
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PlI-OT.
291
producerl from currents. In plsice of a loe-chip, in he.ivinc; the loc;, make use of a lead,
fortlie lead, by rrstin^ firm on the bottom, will show tin- \vhn|e di^tant'c or rate that the
vessel runs, whether that rate be eauscd \)\ ilic wind or 1j_v tln' ctirrent : and markins; the
bearin<;.s oftlie line tlie opposite direciloii will be thi" dirt-et ( oiirsc which the ship makes
good, and wliich reipiircs no I'urihrr correctiuii tliaii Icpr macnitie variation. It is true,
that, if there be mncli de|)th, this practice will be very dihic ii!t : but as in s;eneral on this
bank, von onjrht not to sail in more than In I'athonis, ami in the rest from Point Descono-
cida to the shoals, there is no part so (ieep as •J-' faihoms, there can be no reason why this
useful method m aseertainiuL' 'he vessel's place sliould not be adopted ; nor is the fre-
quent use of tie hand lead of if--, imporiance ; it ou^ht to be i onslanily 2;'>ing.
Many neglect sounding, because they are not aware ol its imporiance. If, in fact, a
vessel wliich has to sound in lii) fathoms, has to take in sail, m order to heave the topsails
aback, she cannot sound lVe(|nently : for, in doiii!; so, half the day w;)ulil be consumed in
sounding ; but it is widl known that there is no necessity lor so much work, in order to
sound, even in more than ;{ti latnoms. as those well know who ar«' expert in this part of
their duty. In dejifhs between 15 and •.'() fatli(»ms, the hand lead will be sufficient, and
for tin.-; it isinilispensable tohave seamen acfpiaiiitofl with this work ; without wliich every
vessel mijiht be lost that has to navij^ate over siioal places, on wliich, usually, the dangers
are only discoverable bv the leatl.
DIRKCTKXNS FOR TllOSIO WHO NAVICATK KKO.M EAST TO WEST.
— 1st. Vou uu;rht to sha])e courses, so as to compensate asmucli as possible for the ef-
fects of the currents which prevail between CiJia and Yucatan, and so that you may en-
ter upon the bank in -Jv?^ 1.5', a little more or less. To be able to correct your cour.se
with judgment, anil in good time, you should omit mi ne aiis of oliservinii the latitude,
not conlentinj: yourself solely wiili what the mcriiiiaii aliiiude of the snn !>;ives, but taking
also those of any stars of the first ma!;nimdc. or ol pianets, v.'heii an op])ortunity oH'ers.
2'i. Vttcndina: to your reckfttiin^. sound in tiuie, that you iviay, at any rale, not pass far
from the edge of the bank, without havinir obtained soiindiiiis on it ; and, so soon as you
have got them, correct your lonuiiiide i)y them, eslabiishiiii: thus a new point of departure.
3d. So soon as you are in ."'0 fathoms heave; your lou, with a learl in place of a log-
chip, that you may thus keep a more accurate reeknoing, aid free from the effects of
currents.
4th. In the season of tlie Norths, you should be directed by the depths of 18 or 20
faiioms, which you will lind in the parallel of J-J \ Sail on this depth until you are on
the meridian of Point Desconocida. when you will steer W. by S., true, luitil you are on
.the parallel of 21^ 2.5', when you must run to the west, to pass between the Triangle
and New Shoal.
5th. It is very advisable to know the latitude by observation, for passing between these
shoals, or in default theieof. of beini:: sure of the situation by your course, and the
i|uality of the souii<lin<;s N. \V. of Point Piedras. whieli olVer a good means of knowing
the vessel's place: and, if both these data fail you, and you are in conse(|uence doubtful
of the situation of the vessel, vou ouL'lit not to attempt passing between the shoals
during the nisrht, but keep in ]-< fatlioms, in order to take the passage by day, when you
will run no risk, especially if you incline your course to tl'.e direction of the Triangle;
for that, as we already explained, may be setMi at the distance of 5 miles.
6th. If a north wind comes on, \ hile you are on this bank, the only alarm you can be
under is, while the vessel is to the eastward of the meridian of Point Piedras, when it
will be necessary to carry sail sufficient to proceed to tlie westward, without departing
much from the depth of jn fathoms, in order that vou mav pass the said point clearly
and without daiiL'er froin the .^isal Hank or Shoal: I v.t this oliers no great difficulty;
for there is little sea on the-p soundiims. and as the winds from the north are generally
free, with very little difficulty you may clear the point.
7th. If the upvigation is made in the season of the rains, or from May to September,
you may sail nearer the coast, in 11 fathoms ; and you may also, from the time you are
in 18 fathoms, abreast of the P.iver Lat'; rtos, sieer S. W., true, with which course you
will run to make the lookout tower of ('huburna. and thence, with your course parallel
to the land, you will pass between it and the Sisal Shoal, without any other care than
to keep in 4!|, 5, or 5'; fathoms, aecordin2 to the vessel's draiurht ; but with large ships,
and not having to anchor at Sisal, if will be best to pass outside of the shoal. At this
time it is preferable to leave the bank by the south side of the Areas, and to effect this
with more certainty, you will keep in the depth of 9 or 14 fathoms, until you cross the
parallel of Cainpeche, when ymi will steer so as to leave the soundings in 19° 30' or 19"
40'. The reason of approximating' the <'oast more in the summer, is because, having in
that season many calms, with scpialls and continual rains, whioii at times deprive you of
observation for two or three days, it follows, that the naviijation among shoals is very
unsafe. On the contrary, near the coast they enjoy more latul breezes, and the changes
of the breezes are more certain.
292
»'»w,'
BLl'.VT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
i
Htli. Tntil now \\c have suppospil you tuliavf rntPit'd on tlic l)atil< witli a t^ood knotv-
ledao of your lalirude, and coiiseiiuriitly to have ascertained your position on tlie ed^e
of it; liui, it' you enter on the hank wiili jrieaf uncerlaiiUy as to your latiindi*. wliich
must aiway-^ he tlie case « Ihmi yon are "ithriut ol)servati(nis for one oi two days, in siu h
a case, so soon a^ you liave cauglif sonndin!:;s, steer S. K., true, or as near to that as the
wind will permit. With this course it is clear you will either catch the IH fathom
soundini^s, or you will lose hotioni very soon. If the first ha|)ppns. you will have at-
tained yottr ohject hy iiettinu into the propi.T depth to navigate with safety ; haviiij; iia[)-
pily freed yourself from the dangers of the Alacranes, ujion which yon would indnhila-
bly have ^one with any south-westPrly course, for yon will have caught the sounding!"
on the northern edije of the hank, and in ahottt f'H' (7' VV. of (ireenwic h. In this case,
from the time you catch IH fathoms, you will run to the west, in order to retain them ;
and y(Ui camiot he certain ol'yonr lonizitmle until you are ahreast of Point IMc'ras, in
conse(lueiice ot' h.nin^ failed of ohservint; your true situation hy the sfiiuidinas on the
east cdiip of the hank. If the second ot' these rases hap|)ens, namely, runninij; soon out
of soundings, uot the least douht can remain tiiat you are on the eastern edge of the
bank, and you must steer to the S. W. to get the IH fathoms depth, as we have already
advised.
')lh. You may also steer to the west, fakiu': soundings in 'J.T^ .'iO' of latitude, and rnn-
»'<inir alori^ that parallel in I'l and .').'i lathoms of water on ;>, sandy holtom. keeping after-
wards so as to pass to the north of the Hermeja ; but we are very far from advising; this
route to he followed, from two reasons: fu'st. because we have seen that there are well
founded fears ol" '^hoals on the north ed^e of this hank, which as v( i is imperfectly ex-
pl(;red ; and secnnd. because, in the sunuuer. von could not enjov llie a.ivantaue (d' the
land hrce/.es. and the changes of the hiee/es. which you mi^ht have in the proximity of
the land, and your v(»yaire would thus be rendered loiurer.
As we have said all that is necessary to be kept in niinti for navijiatins; on this bank
from east to west, we shall n<iw cive some notices for sailinu in a rontriuv direi tion.
DIKKC'i'lo.N.S yoW NAVI(;A'n.\(i KKo.M WKS'I' 'I'O K A.-^T.— 1st. It is
evident tliat, to enteron the C'ampeche I'aidi by its western edu;e. nnthinir nu)re is neces-
sary than the latitude : for, runnina; on a free parallel, you jnoeeed without risk of shoals
on the haidv; ami. whatev(>r may i<e the error (d'lonsitiide, you can ( orrect it so soon as
you strike soundings : but it must he reuM-mhered that the tra(di between the New
Shoal (Uajo .\ueva,) and Mcrmeja Ishuul. eaiuiof he considered as clear, for we neitliti
know the situation of the latter, iioy are we even certain of its existence.
2d. Ilavini entered mi the hank, it ,vill itself indi<'at" when you are to the eastward dl
the shoals, which will be when you have less than •.'") fathoms, and then the (|uality ol
the boltom will he of sand, it' you have entered to the norih of the Areas; hut if you
have entered to the south of tliein, you will keep on clay to 1 I and ') fathoms,
.Id. I'ut. il'you have to enter on the bank while uncertain of the latitude, ami in ob-
scure weather, which occtirs when the north wiuls blow, it is advisable to shun, as mnrh
as you can, enleriu<r on it by niiiht. and endi-avcuin^ to do it hy ilay, between the 'j^-ian-
gle and Areas, or it is even better to keep to the south of the Arc as, as a little more ni
less than the latitmle by account will answer for this : hui you must rcuuMiiher that tlin
horth winds always prodnee eurrents to the south : and (rom this you will always find
your vessel more or less to the south of the reckonint.'. I'luler this circumstance you
may expect the effects of the current to he about 1 "^ miles in •,' I hours.
4th. Ifin this rase, when numiiiij to the east, you have soiuidiu'.'s on the edc;e of tbr
btink. you may continue to the east, allliouuh it he by ni'j;lit, so lon^ as you lind clay;
but the greatest attention must be jiaid to souiidiua; fre<niently, so long as you do not
consider yotirself to the eastward of the shnals. whidi, as we have said, will be soon as
the depth diminishes to •,'.") fathoms. This remark is uiost essential, and of itself will
save any vessel from hein:; lost ; for if, soiuidiui: in u'ore than '.'.') fathotns. you (ind gra-
vel and sand, or rork, it is an infallible sign that you are near some shoal, which known.
you should immediately steer S. W. in order to get again upon the rlay soundings,
when you may steer again to the east ; and sosoctn as you are past the shoals, and are to
the east of thcni, you need take no other rare than to steer in to the east, beranse tlir
bottom is the only object vou hav«^ to guide you, whether it be to go to aiu lior at Caiii-
peche, to lie to till a north w ind blows over, or, beating to w indward on tiie bank, until
you can laave it by its eastern channel.
5th. Heating to windward on this coast is very easy, and the navigation expedilinui,
especially in April, iMay, .liine. .luly. and August, hecaus(> in these months the winds
during the day are chaimeable from N. W. to N. K-, and the land-breezes are from K.
S. E. to S. K. during tli<' niizht. with which you may navigate towards the east with vc-
ty advantageous tracks, which tracks ought to be so managed as to stand nlV shore into
18 or 20 fathoms, with land-breeze, and turn towards shore with the sea-breeze as far a«
6 futhomii.
6th. On tl
even a vessel
not to forget
lie to. in frot
(Iraiight ol ll
falimg to li'c
prefer steerii
7th. We
when you na
ern ( oast ol
selves I'ilots
mended to stt
pose to run <
of latitude :
written as if
nut ; and evi
more caution
by two shoal
other is no U
on it. IJy fi
rounf \\i' lia\i
has not prove
It ai»|)ears i
ern edjie, sho
leaving the ha
light they (iiii;
shape their c(
Directions for
In sailing I'l
West, so i\s t(
qneiitly, and I
keep in the so
or without it;
ward, and thei
keep the land
of running on
off, and yon n
certainty of l;i
next morning ;
yon are in a vf
Spanish chart
lage of .layna
oft' deck ; thei
The town o
Greenwich,
toward I'oint 1
your dejjth of
about S. by \\
til you are as I
water U lathon
to make out ;
yon make the
wliich is a larj;
BLL'.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
293
a good knotr-
II oil tlie cdijc
,ititii(l<', uliich
p (Invs, in sue li
• til lliMt as the
the IH f'athoiri
will have at-
; haviiij; hap-
oiilil iiiiliiliila-
tlie soiiiKJinoii
In this ease,
I retain them ;
int IMe-'ras, in
iiidinsis on the
iiiiiiii; soon out
n edge of tlic
e have aheiidv
ilude. and niii-
U(e|iin<j: aftt r-
III advisin'4 this
there are well
iiiperfeetly ex-
ivaiitai;e ol' tli"
le proximity of
;; on tliis !)aiik
V direc tion.
•|\— Isf. Tt is
more is neres-
it risk of shoals
•et it so soon as
|\veeii the New
for we neithn
le eastward of
the (|ualiiy iil
hut if you
ims.
e, and in oh-
inn, as much
'11 the Triaii-
I it tie more or
mlier that tlir
II always (iiid
umstance yon
id
le eds;e of tiic
Noii find elay ;
IS you do not
ill he soon iis
of itself will
yiiii (iiid pra-
wliieli known,
ay soiindiims,
>ais, and are to
t. beeause tlir
i( hor at ("ani-
lie bank, until
I expeditinni,
itlis the winds
^s are from K.
east with ve-
olV shore into
reeze as far as
•■?
fith. On this hank the sea is very moderate, even with heavy north winds; and thus
even a vessel which liiids hersell' l)etweeii the eoasi ot" \ era (.'ru/, and this hank, ought
not to forget tiiat when a north wind comes on, she may tiiid seeurity on it, either to
lie to, in from IH in h, or h I'atlioms, or to anehor in H. (>, or -4 faihonis, aeeording to the
(liaiighf of the ve>'.sel ; and if she hiid hersilt' in about the parallel of -JH , and is at'raid of
("allms t'> leeward and yeitin^ ashore on ihe coast of Taliaseo. she oiii:ht immediately to
prefer steering east, in order to i;et iipcni the hank, and take advaiitasie ot it.
7th. \\ e shall eoneludc these directions with one about the mode of leavinj; this bank,
when vou naviiiate from (, 'a in pee he to the north, bound to any ot the harbors on the north-
ern ( oast of the (iulf. In the manuscript directions, (drawn up by those who call them-
selves I'ilots for the .Mexican (uilf. ) and which were the only ones until now. it is recoiii-
meiided to steer north as tar as the parallel of .Sisal. \ on should then steer N. N. K. on pur-
pose to run out between tin; Neiirillo and Alacran. followins; the said course to the "^4°
of latitude: here it is proper to remark, how arbitrary these directions are; for they arc
written as if the writers were certain of the situalicm of the .NeiirilJo. which they were
not; and even it they had known it, thev oimht (it -iei'iiis to us) to have been a little
more cautions in ^iviiiij; their dirt'ciions. than to have advised passing by a strait formed
iiy two siioals; of which, it' the one is daii'^eroiis on account of its trreat extent, the
other is no le«is so (Ui aecount of its sinalliiess. lor it cannot be seen till you are almost
on it. \iy followini: this route, the briuaiitiiie. in which went the mariner. Iiy whose ae-
eoniit we have placed the Negrillo. ;:ot within it: and it is very wonderful that this shoal
has not proved more fatal to iiavi^ialioii by caiisin:; the lo<s of many vessels.
It ajipears to us projier to advise, that those who wish to leave this bank, by its nortli-
eri; edi^e, should steer to the ncnth, and so as to pass to tiie east of Arenas Island : and
leavinn; the bank at such an hour as to be able to cross the parallel of ','3° .'50'; with day-
li>j;litthey ouirlit to keep the s.imo course, until they |)ass that of V-M-, when tliey may
shape their course as cuiiveiiient.
Directions for sailing to Cumpeclic,ln] Citptdiii John MitilcrUar,ofthc British iSTzry, (1817.)
Ill sairm<; from .Tamaiea forC'ampeehe. be sure to make('a])e Antonio, and steer to the
West, so jis to u'aiii the latitude of •,>-J'" I)': then steer W. ,', .">. KKI miles, soundiiii; fre-
qnciitly, and haviiic; ^ood soundings on the bank, ^'ou may then, with f^reat eonfidence,
keep ill thi' soiiiidiin:s laid ''own in the Chart, either in sioiiiL: within the shoal (i»f .Sisal
or without it; but, in fine weather. I should always preler making; the land to the east-
ward, and tlien run down aloim the coast, iu .') or (> fathoms. On approachiiiii Sisal,
keep the land freely on hoard, by your sounding's; and. in doitm so, you avoid the risk
of riiimiiiii •>" '1. either by day en- ni'.'ht. for you will si-e the castle of Sisal 5 or G iiiilea
oil", and yon may run down in ."> m' () fathoms. The ;,'reat advantage of this will be, the
certainty of land-winds off-slnui,'. iVom aboiii 1 o'clock in the afternoon until 7 or 8 the
next morniiiu; ; the sea-bree/.e setlin^ in srenerally from the northward and eastward. If
you are in a vessel drawing more than twelve feet water, avoid a shoal laid down in the
Spanish chart, on which •.*,' fathoms only have been fomid : this shoal lies oft' the vil-
lage of .layna. about ten miles, which villa2(\ or any part cd' tlie coast, cannot be seen
olf deck : therefore s^reat caution is neccssarv in riimiiiiL; for, or leaving Campeche.
The town of Cainpeche is situated in lat.'lO" :^\' l.'>" N. and lonj;. '.)0o 28' 15" W. of
Greenwich. Proeeediiiir for the amdiorasre from the iim'thward, and having advanced
toward i'oint Desconocida. on the N. W. part of N'ucatan. distant from it 8 or 9 miles,
your dejiih of water will be from .'") to '> fathoms; from this proceed to the southward,
about S. by \V. observing; that you must not i;o nearer to the shore tlian 6 fathoms, un-
til yiMi are as f;ir as the lat. of •:20° 0' N: then, heiim in that latitude, and your depth of
water G fathoms, if ( dear weather, you will see the land, which is very low and difficult
to make out : from this, if the wind will allow you. steer K. S. K. or S. Y^. by E. until
you make the land out jdainly. The most remaikalile spot on it is Fort St. Michael,
which is a larsre while tort, on the very top of the hill, 'i'his is the first part of the land
you can make out, and it may be seen in lat. 1')° 56', in .')1 fathoms. So soon as this is
made out plainly, hrinj; it to bear K. by S. and steer for it : you will tlien be in the deepest
channel for ("aiiipeehe, and may choose your depth (d water to anchor in. When you
have 4,' fithoms, the steeples of ( 'ainpec he are just in siijht, from a frigate's deck ; and
when in -1 ',, the ehureh at Lerma can be seen from the deck ; the Point Morros, which
is the S. \V. extreme of the land, will bear S. S. H. and Campeche East; and, when in
24 feet, which is the depth I slioiild propose for a frigate to anchor in, the tops of the
houses at Campeche are just well in si^'ht frmii the deck, bearing S. 8.'!'' K. Fort St.
Michael. S. 7.'f K. Lerma Cliurih, at the bottom of the hill, S. fi()° H. and Point Mor-
ros, the .S. W. extreme of the land, S. 1')" K ; vour distance from the town will then be
nine and a half miles, and lat. 19^ 53' 47", and long, 90"' 37' 30" W. Should your ship
294
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
be of Ipss draught of water than a fris,M(u proceed on for Fort St. iMichael, keeping it
bearins; as above, and anchor in what deptii you please, but within .']', fathoms; in tliis
dire( tion the bottom is bad, being covered with Uirge shells, and, of course, dangerous to
anchor in.
In the event of running for Campcche, in hazy weather, which often is the case on
this coast, in the fore part of the day, I should recommend proceeding as follows: — Af-
ter you reach the lat. of 'JO 0' N. haul up to the K. 8. E. keeping your lead going;
and should you not see the land, endeavor to get info the lat. of l'J° ,54' before you are
in less than 4^ or 5 lathoiTis of water. So soon as you consider yourself in this latitude,
proceed to the eastward, until you shoalen your uater to what may appear best to an-
chor in; taking care, if you have to beat up, not to pass to the southward of 19° 513',
nor to the northward of 1') ' .')()'. for between these two Ir.titudesis tlie deepest water, and
anchor as near the latitude of 1')^ .'J4 as possible.
In lat. '20'' IS aiul long. *)()" 41' there is a small spot of ground with oidy fifteen feet
of water on it ; but, runnitia: along shore, and keeping in 6 fatlioms, you will pass to the
westward of it: the soundings near this part are very irregular, altering sometimes a
fathom and a half between two casts; there is no other jiart on the bank where this is
the case.
The town of Campcche is a walled town with four gates, N., E., S. and W.; the nortli
gate leads into the town from the sea by a pier of about 50 yards long; but the water is
so shallow that small boats only can laud, and then only at high water; the rise is about
three feet.
Though Campcche is walled, it has only a few guns on each angle ; the military force
does not exceed 500 . the town is abundantly supplied with all kinds of stock and Indian
corn, but no water except in t iiks. The priiu-ipal wells are at the south gate about half
a mile, and that not good. The population ap]»ears great, and the natives active and
well made.
Remarks on sailin;j; loirarcls Campcche, by Captain J. W, Monlealh.
On rounding the bank of Sisal, in 12 fathoms, I hauled up .South, until we had attained
the latitude of Point Desconncida, and the depth of wntcr 5 fathoms : steering this
depth, the first object I observed, was a large white building on the secotul lump ot' high
hind visible, and which is a fort (St. .Michael's,) two miles 8. W. from the city. Steer-
ing on, the next objects that appeared were the steeples of the churches in the city.
Steer directly for the fort, until ni 3', fathoms, when you will observe the village of Ler-
mos, which lies 5 miles 8. W. of Cnmpedie. Steer in, keeping the Church of Lermos
on your starboard bow, until yon bring it to bear .South, and Cam|)eclie I''., by N. when
you may anchor in from JH U) 10 feet of water, at the distance of 4,i^ miles from Cain-
peche; in this position the dcjith of water, for ai)ove a mile, does not vary more than IQ
or 15 inches.
During my stay, (from .luiie 10th to .luly 10th, L-'IT,) I obsei\.-d the tides were very
irregular, and greatly influenced bv the wind ; so that ships (with the wind off shore)
must pay attention, if drawina much wafer, to get luider weigh, and run out farther into
deeper water. On the 'Jd of July, the Fame, then drawing 17 feet, and lying in ;i| fa-
thoms, grounded with an olf-siiore wind, and in a few hours had only 14 feet alongside,
and for three days never more than lOi, feet, until the wind shifted to the northward;
and had she not been a remarkably strong vessel would have straiiu'd very mucii.
Vessels with hempen cables ought to be careful in pu'king out a clear berth, as a niun-
btrof vessels were Ibrnierly in the habit of heaving out stone-ballast where they lay:
thk«U now j)revented, by a fine of 500 dollars being li.id on a vessel that does so. Sand
balltisi is allowed to be thrown overboard, by shifting the vessel often, so that there is no
danger of banks being formed by if.
PORT LAGIJNA.— The port of Laguna, or town of Carmin as it is called by the
Mexicans, lies on the west end of the Island of Carmin, about one mile within the S.
W. point of the island. 'J'he bar makes out from 5 to (> miles from the 8. W. part of it,
in a N.W. direction. The latittule of the point is 18° 'M' N. and long. 91^ 49' W, hy
the mean of three Chronometers; Lat. of the middle of the anchoring ground lb° 37'
12", the S. W. point bearing N. W. i V/. by compass, a short nule distant.
Ships bound to Laguna siu)uld endeavor to make land to the wiiulward ; if they fall
in with Pott jRoyal, it may be known by an island lying in the middle of the entrance,
which is precisely the plan that Laguna is laid down on tlie comnujii charts, but it is ;>
mistake, as there is no island to be seen at the Lagoon, btit a Sand Jiank, which ih*" sea
breaks all over in rough weather, which cannot be seen until you come in to .'5 ( .ilionis
water on the entrance of the bar; the middle part of the Sand Bank bears N. W A N.
by compass, about .3 miles distant from the S. VV. part of the island. Inside of the Sand
Bank is a passage for small craft.
THE COAS'
niJINT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
295
I, keeping it
iriis ; in tliis
Jangeioiis to
the case on
)llows : — Af-
lead goin',' ;
'foie you iue
this latitude,
r hest to an-
d of 19° 5'J',
St water, and
y fifteen feet
II pass to the
sometimes a
where this is
v.; the north
the water is
rise is about
nihtary force
•k and Indian
ate about half
es active and
nil.
e had attained
steering this
lump of high
city. Sleer-
•i in the city,
ilage of LfM-
h of Fjernios
by N. when
s from Cam-
more than 12
es were very
(1 off shore)
t farther into
ing in ',]\ {'»■
et alongside,
northward:
llU'il.
th. as a nnin-
re tltey lay :
(>s so. Sand
at there is no
le
Run down the Island of Carmin at 4 or 5 miles distant in from 4', to Tji fatlioins, sticky
bottom, all the way from Port Koyal. but to the east of Port Koyal, you will have hard
bottom, after getting into 7 or f^ fatlioins.
The entrance of Laguna does not open until it bears south, but if any .sliipping in port
ynii will see their ma^ts over the land before you open the harbor.
To^oiivrr the Bur. — After opening the harbor jiart off shore until Cape .Tacilango
bears three \V. S. W. by S. bv compass, and then steer for it. but keep your lead going,
and come in no less than .'J fathoms, until a small Indian N'illage, on .Jacilango Island,
bears S or .S. ', K. by r-f)mi)ass. then steer directly for it, and keep that l)eariiig until the
Church in the centre of the town bears H. by compass, tlien haul up for it and anchor
before the town, near tlie shore as you please.
There arc from V2\ to i;?^ feet on the bar, hard mud; pilots coiue ofl' with the land
breezes in the morning, in <-anoes, with one or two sails.
.Strangers had better anchor in '.] or 4 fathoms, after opening the harbor, and wait (or
a i)ilot. The water shoalens (piick after opening the harbor, from 5.^ to [ik fathoms, but
there is no danger by keejiing your lead going.
THE COAST FROM POINT
XICALANGO
PICO.
TO VERA CRUZ AND TAM-
Courses In this Oviptrr Ike true Courses.
From Point Xicalango tlie coast trends about W. a distance of 32 miles to the River
of .San Pedro: and all this jiart is called Lodazar (Mud Hank) because the bottom is of
mud so soft and loose, that there jiave been instances of ships having been driven upon
it by the Norths without receiving much injury in their hulls. The land is high, and is
called the Altos or Heights of Sail (iabricl.
From the River San Pedro it is ."^. 75- W. .0.') miles to the River of Tu[)ilco ; the
coast between, forms a bight of about 5 miles in depth witliin the line of bearing; and
has in it the Kiver Tabasco, that of Chiltej)ec and Dos Hocas or Two Mouths. The
bars of San Pedro and Chiltepec, have 7 or 8 feet water over them; there are 4 feet in
the Dos IJocas and Tupilco. That of Tabasco, which is the deepest, forms two mouths,
separated by the Isle del Biiey, or Ox Island : the easternmost of these has 7 feet, and
the westernmost, ') feet water: all these bars are subject to sliift, excej)ting that of San
Pedro, which is fixed about m'-dway between the two points of the river.*
From the River Tupilco tlic coast forms a bight or bay, as far as the bar of the La-
goon of Santa Ana, distant from the i mer .Tl miles S. oJ W.
All the coast, tVom \icalango to Santa Ana is clean; so that, from the Lodazar to
(Miil'epec, there are 4 or 5 fathoms at a mile from the shore, and 10 miles between
Chillc^pec and ."^anta Ana: the (piality of the bottom between Lodazar and Chiltepec is
mud; between Chiltepec and Dos Hocas, mud and rotten shells; from Dos Bocas to
Tupilcf;, coarse (dive-colored sand, and between Tupilco to Santa Ana, coarse sai»d with
shells, atid in some parts gravel. There is mud in the mouths of all these rivers as far
out as the h.cads or points of the bars. The whole of the shore is rather low than oth-
erwise, and from about 2 leagues to windward ol' the San Pedro to the ('hiltepec, it is
covered with palm and mangrove trees, and thence to Santa Ana, with mangroves and
Miriiguanos.
From the bar of .Santa Ana, west 2r> niih-s, is the River (loazacoalcos, and in the in-
termediate space, the Rivei Tonala discharges its waters.
The River (toazacoalcos is k.nown by its east point I'orming a scarped Morro (ir HiHt
the west point being very low. S. 34"" \V. from the said east point of the river, at the
distance of 4 miles and 4 tenths, there is, on a height, a Vigia or lookout tower with a
house at its foot, which serves as a wareliouse or magazine of gunpowder; and somewhat
more to the east, a Corps de garde with a battery, which has a flag-staff at its east part,
and which serves as a mark for the bar of the river. When this bears S. 13° 30' W. it
will direct you over the middle of the said Har, the least depth of which is 2|iathoms,
increasing as you pass it, from 7 to 13 and L") fatlioms.
At the distance of 13 miles W. from this bar is that of the River Barrilla, which, with
the River (ioaza^oalcos forms an island called Harrilla.
N. "iiH^ W., at the distance of 10 miles froiuHarrilla, is the point of San Juan with an
islet, and at N. 35*^ W. from it, distant 17 miles, is that of Znpotilan, from which it
* Buey Inlet varies from 8 to 11 feet, fine white sand ; you can always get a pilot. Ten miles
to the eastward the palm trees commence very diick. The town of St. Juan Baptista, is 75 miles
up the river, and 12 miles from the bar the river forms three branches, on the westernmost of
which, the town is situated.
1 f
I
296
nLU.XT S A.MERICAA' COAST PILOT.
trends N. 40'- W. lor tin; flisijiiicf of 11 miles lo tlii' point i<is iMorrillns, iuid nftrnvardu
N. 5')- W. 7 iiiilt's to KoL'a i'liriiiiii. W't'st iVom Zo|)oiiliiii I'oiiit, distiiiit one IramiP, is
tlip IJoca or .Moiiili of Soiitt'comaiia i,a;;i)on. aini S. S. E. iVom I'oiiit Ids iMorrillos,
tlicre is a \ ii;ia or walcli-iowi'r. 'I'lii' coast l)rl\vi'rii I'arrilla and Ivoca Parlida, I'oriiis
fh»' base of the Sierras or .Mountains of Siin Martin, on llic hiu;lirst summit ot' wliicli,
is tii(' volcano ot Tuxtla, wliicii broke out iti Marcii, 17'l,'{, and wlience crii|»lions still
continue. This mountain can be distiiicily svtiu at N'era Cru/,, m liich is distant '25
leaijues. \\'lu'ii it is in an aciivcstate llie llanies by ni^lil and the coluum ol'smoke by
day, atl'ord an excellent land mark.
N. ri()^ V\'., distant '.>7 nules from Koca I'ariida, liestlie baroC .Mvar.ido, whicli, thou!;h
it lias not so ureal a depiii ol water as lliat ot' tin; (loa/.ocoalos, will admit vessels ol' ')
or 10 feet draui;lit. On tin; interuu'diate toast is the N'igiii or lookout ol Tuxtla, atid
that of iJarrancas.
*.N. 4 1 W. distaiit Jl miles from the Bar of ,\lvarado, is the River Saiado Chico,
which is tlie soniliermnost part ol'the ancliora^eol' Anton Li/.ardo. All this coast, iVoni
the River .Santa Ana to tlie Kivfr Salado Chico, is ecjually as clear as that to the eastward,
and on all that part on which we have written from the Laiioon of Terniinos to tiie last
mentioned place, ii is very daimerous to ancjior iVom ()ctober to .\pril, on account of
the norths bio\vinu directly on tlie shore; and it OML;ht not to be a|)proa(-hed with any
vess(d that caimot enter over the bars which have been described ; for it iiii};ht easily
happen, in si)ite of all exertions, that you may be (uiven upon the coast, seeing that the
norths are very slroni;. and with them there is no way ofi;ettins; olf.
The anclioram' of Anton l/i/,ardo, wliicji is distant 10 miles from N'era Cruz, is formed
bv various shoals and reefs, wiih clean i hannels between them, of very easy access, es-
pecially when a fresh wind causes the sea to break iin the shoals. These shoals, al-
thouch they afford no shelter against the winds, break olf the sea so much that ships
ride very safe atui securely at their anchors, v\q\\ duriu;: the hardest N. gales, 'i'he an-
chorage is spacious, and lit for every cl.iss of vesscU, for which reason, aiwl because
with the norths it is to le(<ward of \'era Cru/, a tlienniuh kiiowledj.'e of it is vl' the ut-
most inipf)riance to those who caimot reach that port with those winds.
Captain Den Fraiu'isco .Murias surveyed and drew a plan of the place in li^lP, which
is ptiblished by the 1 Iydro5:ra|)hical ( Kiice, an inspection ol which is sutficient to obtain
a knowledjje of its goixlnsss and excelbMice. We copy what Murias has said on it : —
" To go into this anchorage, althcmuh it has four excellent entrances of a snllicienl
depth of water, tht; two which are formed by the rocks with the coast should be prefer-
red, and of tliese the western one is always the best. In taking this channel you ought
to steer about midway between the coast and the Island Rlanrpiilla, in which case steer
east, and continue on that course until you are sonie.what within it, when you nmsi
steer more to the northward in ordi'r to take a berth most convenient for your purpose.
The best anchorage is to the N. K. and E. N. K. of Point .\nton l/i/.ardo, (on which
there are some houses,) in 10 t'athoms on gray sand, and sand and shells. "f
* The entrance to Alvaradois v(;ry narrow, and cannot be seen until bearing from S. by E. to .S,
by W. It is, however, known by a remarkable sand bluff, and appears thus :
J ■ S. 150 W.
Vessels bound here, on making the usunl sipnir-i for a jiilot, bv firing a gun and hoist iig colors,
will he furnished without delay, A pilot (irocccds from town in a pirogue or canoe, manned by 8
or 10 men.
The anchorage oflftlie bar is irulitrcreiil, and afier the moiuh of .September, very dangerous, (is
should a ship be caught here in a north wind, she nnist inevilubly go on shore, unless she can cross
the bar, and that can only be done by vessels drnvving 10 feet or less. These winds come on so
quick, and a current runs so strong to leewurd, that it is very improbable a ship would work of!" the
coast.
During the rainy season the current runs constantly out of the river, and it recpiires all the sail
you can male to cross tlie bar : if the ship should be of such draft as to render it uncertain, a pre-
son should be procured from town, who could talk with the pilot tluently, as the least mistake
might be fatal. In 18i24 I crossed this bar witinmt touching, drawing 11 feet in a very fast vessel,
while a dull sailer of less draft directly after struck ami went to pieces.
The anchorage after you are in, is good, and about 2 miles from the bar, directly opposite the
town.
!■ t The holding ground is excellent, bein? formed of thick sand and clay; and from this circum-
stance of the wind on this part of the coast never blowing any more than a fresh breeze from any
quarter escept the N. and N. N. W., the anchorage is as secure as most harbors.
N. 27'' W.
Shu .Iii«n de
niul fre{|uent
10 take, parti
open roadstea
riua is erectt
we are in pos!
The pruici]
Orizava, and
are far inland
de Tuxtla, on
from Vera Cr
The Peak
It is of a colli
l.Vl'), and eoi
ance of couil)i
may be readil
at the distanc
The Cofre
29' N.> about
inouiitain rani
Dirertiimsfor
The yiarbot
(lie walls of tl
The Castle is
olf tVoiu it to t
shows a part ,
or four small i
"VV. side is the
that is the onl
1. The tow
]0'30" W., b;
This port has
riua; the cen
liyht is (11} the
nel, having 21
makes tlie rev
It is about G se
dternately. '
'J. In runnii
■JO', before yot
keeping in tlin
ria de Kuera,*
lie OiVfroin it.
larboard bow ;
you ; then, if
shoals off the
during the nig
bearing from y
fillips, inappn
the outer shoals,
water ; and as t
In approachii
from making it (
the land to the r
» In these dir
ble. In order ti
Hester, in some
ward of 19^ 50'
should be taken
port, Don Bernn
ward on the pai
July, when the i
to the northwan
BLUNTS AHKRICAN COAST IMLOT.
297
ind nftpnvnrds
one li-amie, is
los Munillos,
'iiitidii, ('011119
iiiit of wliicli,
cnipiions still
I is (listiiiit 'J.5
III olsiiioke by
ivhicli, tlionsli
lit vessels ol' '>
I 'J'lixtia, aiiil
"iahuio Cliicn,
lis coast, (Voiii
) the eastward,
iiiis to the last
oil accmiiit of
[•lied with any
t iiii^ht easily
ceing that the
111/,, is formed
isy aceess, es-
?se shoals, al-
iieli that ships
lies. 'J'he aii-
, aii(l because
it is of the iit-
n li^lP, which
rient to iibiaiii
1 said on it : —
)f a sulficient
mill 1)0 prefer-
(lel ynii ou<;Iit
eh case steer
en yon imist
your purpose.
(), (on which
t
Ti S.by E. loS.
hoi.'^t .,g colors,
, manned by 8
dnngrroiis, as
IS she can crnss
ds come on so
Id work off the
ires all the sail
ncertnin, n pre.
) least mistake
ery fust vessel,
lly opposite the
3111 this circiim.
rcLZc from any
t-'X
N. 27^ W., at about 4 leamies distance from Point Anton Tji/.ardo, is the castle of
S<in .Iiian de Fl'ia. which fi)niis the Harbor or I'ort of \'cra (rn/.. which is more known
and freipiented than all tli. others inthe .Mexican (iulf, and likewise the most danK^'nius
to take, particularly duriiii; northerly i^ales. It is not a coimnodious harbor, but an
open roadstead, covered with several islands, on one of which the fortress of St. .luuii do
riiia is erected. The access to this port is dilVicult, but wo subjoin such directions as
we are in possession ol.
'I'he principal land-marks to vess(ds advanrin^ towards \'era C.riv/., aro tho Peak of
Ori/.ava, and the his^h land to the north of it, called the Cofre de Perote, both of which
are far inland to the westwa.d of Vera L'ruz. .Still t'urther from the city is the Volcano
do 'I'lixtla, on the eastern \y.\rt of the .""Sierras or Mountains of .San Martin, and bearing
from \'eia Cm/. S. K. by K. about Tri miles distant.
Tiie Peak ofOri/.ava ism lat. I')' .T N., and (.1 miles W. ')"^ S., true, from Vera Cruz,
If is of a conical form, and always covered with snow. This mountain burst forth ia
1,')I5, and continued in action for ','() years, since w hich time there has been no appear-
ance of coiiii)iistiou. Its liei<;ht is •..',*)HI Kiiiilish fathoms above the level of the soa. It
may be readily known, as it shows in the form of an isoaceles triangle, and may be seen
at the distance ofv.'.5 lean;ues tVom the coast.
The ("ofre de Perote is •2,XV2 fathoms above the level of tlin sea. If stands in lat. lO^^
29' i\., about 13 leagues from the nearest part of the coast. It is the highest of the
mountain range to tlio north of Ori/ava.
Directions for Vera Cruz, In/ (\tjil. John Macktllar, of his Mnjeslifs ship Pique, 1817,
The Harbor of Vera Crii/, is formed by the walls of tlio town on the south side, and by
the walls of the ("astlc of San .luan de I'lua, where the lighthouse stands, on the north,
The (.'astle is built on an island opposite the town, and has a large reef of rocks running
od'Croin it to the N. by E., nearly 'J miles. This reef is called the (iailega, and always
sliow-i a part above water. The harbor is bounded on the ."<. E. and E. sides by three
or foursiiiali islands and reefs, with good passages through between them. On the N,
W. side is the principal entrance, on account of the ships getting eajiier in and out; and
that is the only side which is clear and open to seaward.
1. The town is situated in latitude I'J'^ 1"J' 31" N., and lonj;itude by chronometer 96'^
JO' 30" W., by sun and moon ')(>- ri' ,30". The variation of the compass is about 6^ E,
This port has a very good revolving light on the N. W. of the Castle of .San Juan de
riua; the centre oftlie lantern is elevated 7') feet above the level of the sea; and the
liuht is (iij the same principle as the generality of revolving lights in the English Chan-
^ nel, having 'Jl lamps with reih'ctors, making 7 lamps on each side of a triangle, which
makes the revolutions of the lights as follows; — From the first appearance of the light,
it is about (> seconds bright ; then succeeds a faint gliminerim; for 40 seconds, and sp ot)
alteriiati'ly. This liiiht may be seen TJ miles otf at sea in clear weather.
~. Ill running for this port 1 should recommend to you to get into the latitude of 19*
•20', before yfiu pass the !).')th degree of longitude, and tVoiii that iiroc eed to the westward,
keeping in that latitude : by so doing you will pass 10 mibs to the northward of Ane,ga-
da de I'uera,* and approach Wra Cru/, (> miles to the northward of all the shoals that
lie oiTfiom it. If in the night time, a cood loidvout must be kept for the light, on the
larboarti bow; and on making it stand on to the westward until it bears S. S. W. from
you ; then, if in the latitude of 1')" 20', you will be 8 miles from the N. N. E. side of the
shoals olf the harbor. Here bring to, with the ship's head to the northward, observing,
during the night, not to approach nearer to the light than .') or fi miles, and to keep it
be.iring from you between S. S. W. and S. The S. S. W. bearing will keep you clear
fillips, in approacliing Anton Liznrdofrom the souiii word, should be particularly cnreful to 4void
the outer shoals, which lie to the N. E, of the anchoratre, fihoiit 9 or 10 iiiiJes, and are dry at low
water ; and as the tide rises seldom more than 4 teel, nii.ni lie dnngerous at all tiinea.
In approaching the land in ihe winter season, tliere i." fie<|uenlly a haze which prevents you
from making it out, until you are close u])on the shoals ; it is therefore much safer for ships to make
the land to the northward.
• In these directions Captain Mackcllar seems to have assumed that circumstances are favora.
ble. In order to puard against the etfects of an unexpected north, or a northerly wind, Captain
Hester, in some former directions, written in 1764, says explicitly, that none should fall to tho south-
ward of 19'^ 50', or between that and 19= 40', until the summit of Orizava is seen, and that care
should be taken not to bring that niounlJiin to the westward of W. S. W. The Captain of the
port, Don Bernardi dc Orta, says, as shown hereafter, that the course should be made to wind-
ward on the parallels of 19^ 30' or 19^ 40', and especially so in the months of May, June, and
July, when the sun is in the proximity of the zenith. It is at least clear, that the spfest course is
to the northw ard, particularly to such as cannot rely on their observations.
3ti
398
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
of any shoals th.!t may lie lo tlie cast»*;n(i ol the liqht, tlmt is, more (hnn 2 miles from
it ; and the south ij»*;\iiiiij will keop vou clear of ilie N. W. shore. At daylight, in get-
ting sight of the town, steer for it, oostivini; t!ie foliowiiii; ditectiorH :
.'i. Before you approach nearer than J or 4 miles of the town, hrinjj ihc largest domfd
top steeple, in the centre ol the town, to hear S. j' K. It will then ap|)ear with two sharp
•pire-toppeil steeples close to it, vu tiie west side, and on the smidl hill hehinil the town.
There is a division between put of a hill tliat is covered with grass, and part that is co-
vered v;ith sand. 'Phis division will be on with the steeples bearing as above — the grass
part 10 the S. K. and the part covered with sand to the N. W. With this mark proceed
on lo the southward, alot>g the west side of the (iallega Keef : your soundings here will
be regular, from U) to o lathoins; and when you are so I'ar as to bring the .S. W. side of
the square building that the lo(d»-out house stands on in the fort to toucli tiie N. E.
side of the lighthouse, bearing abont !".. S, K., steer lor it, taking care not to open flif
lighthouse to the \. K. of tlie look-oiit house, until you are dose to the ('asile. Tins
mark will carry you up to tli' liuhtliomt ; then steer round it lo the southward, and an-
chor close to tlie south siile of the Castle, in from .')', to A\ fathoms.
During the months of November, December, .Fanuary, February, and March, the
strong northerly winds prevail, and at times blow very strong, which occasion a consi-
derable sea in the harl>or : atid, as the ground is not good for holding, I should rec«)ni-
mend mooring in these moft's witlt the small bower to the iS. \V., and best to the N.
E., in order that you '"ay wd, <y bolli anclnu-.s, with the wind at tiorlli, and lay your
stream anchor astern. a .* ■'' be sufficient to hold you with the land wind, w liich sel-
dom blows with any i ■ •. \ ing other months of the year, moor with your small
W
:\w.
•t I » I ;<• ^. H., in order to have an open hawse lo the east-
bower to the N.
ward.
4. There is no regular tide here, but in moderate weather, there is one ebb and one
flood in '24 hours, or rather one rise and one fall in that time; for it is the rase some-
times, that the tide runs to the .\. \V. tor three or four days, and the same to the S. K.;
but it appears to be governed ciiielly by the winds blowing in the same direction : as the
wind blows, its rise an<l fall is from two to three feet; but in strong breezes, someiimes
there is neither rise nor I ill for three or four days.
5. The anchorage at Vera Cruz is extremely bad, and, if once you part tliere is no
chance of saving your ship, having nothing but broken groiin<l lo leeward of you.
The men of war of the country always moor with tlie siriall bower to the N. W. in
5 fathoms, and the best bower cable to the rings in the Castle of San .luan de Ulna,
with a cable over tin; stern to the S. S. W. in (> fathoms, by which mode they lie so
close under the castle, that they are, in a great measure, sheltered frotn the violence of
the N. and N. W. winds. 1 anchored, in .Tune, lrtl7, by bringing the i<. W. angle of
Fort St. .Inan to bear N. K. by E. .^ K. about (iOD yards off; from which bearing onlv
four guns from the castlr or outworks could be brought to bear on the ship. This po-
sition may be taken by running in to the soulliward of the castle, between the shoals of
Galleguilia and I'lnnquiila, which always show themselves, and round the (Jallega Keel.
in 6 fathoms, until you brins: the bastitui of St. Crispin (on the south corner of the ens
tie) to bear N. K. by K. .', E. Drop your anchor on a quarter-spring, to act according
as the wind and circumstances may require.
The town of Vera Cm/, furnishes no certain supply of any kind for ships, exceptinj
water, and that bad, and during the winter months dilficiilt to get otT, as the sea breaks
with so much violeii'. c on the pier as to prevent boats from landing for three or fourdnvs
at a. time. As the sea and land breezes, throughout the year, are regular, there is sel-
dom any difficulty in going in or out of the harbor. During the months of August.
September, and October, the rains set in, with close sultry weather, and the vapors
arising from the marshy ground mikes the season extremely subject to the yellow fe-
ver, of which many hundreds die yearly, equal to a tenth part of the whole population,
particularly strangers.
BtUif Directions for Vera Cruz, communicated to Cipttiin Livingston, hy Don Cayetano
Olivclla, 1819.*
Bun in forPonta ficrda (lat. 19° 14i') until the Castlr of San Juan de Ulna bears S.
E. by S. and then keep away to the south-eastward until you bring that castle to bear
S. E. You will then steer so as to keej) the foremost shroud of the vessel always on
with the castle, that is, the foremost shroud of the larboard side, the bearings to be
from the wheel or tiller of the vessel. Keeping it so will lead you clear round the reef
into the anchorage.
■i ■ ' —
* These directions fjr entering appear to be particularly adapted to small vessels.
In CISC of
aiely, and rii
liicity, will ni
at the .S- E.
whereas, wer
but yon wou
tlr; reef of ro
saved.
Von .mchi
bearing .N.
\' esse Is sh
required to n
The lei'fs a
moor vvitli til
to the S. W.
Description
1. The Si.
Andres de Ti
•J5 leagues, at
de i'eroic, wl
inav be seen i
light or fire o
by getting go.
" 2. Tins pri
.ng on the ou
Point Delgad
run down, (as
u'ltii which, ai
which may, ii
particularly oi
extensive sho;
195 ;}0', or I'J'
and .Inly, on ;i
not sulficicntl
currents.
'A. Having <
Hernal, Herna
ing from .'^. by
Juan de L'lua
4. We have
port without d
pursued by s(
one or other 0
being lost, has
ing courses, I);
the causes th;i
5. It is evid
lated, from tw
method aUvay:
so, from estiiii
ought to be.
a course more
covering the I
pointed, even
cial confidenc
and the total '
by getting int
on until the h
The same al
vented from li
of their erron
it will have be
been quite su
blunt's ameuican coast pilot.
299
)n 2 miles from
;i)li);lit, in gct-
' lar<;«'st domnd
with two s\\.\rp
■liind tiie town.
piiri iliiU is co-
•ovc — the pniss
s inaik iiroceed
idiniiH lieie will
• S.'W. side of
lull tile N. K.
ot to open tlif
(.'asilf. This
hwiud, and an-
r)d March, the
evasion a coiisi-
should recotii-
best to the N.
, and lav vniir
iiiil, whicli sel-
vitli your sinidi
se lo the cast-
tie ebl) and one
llie rase some-
rie to the S. K.;
rectiod : as the
/.OS, sometimes
lart there is no
of you.
I the N. W. in
Juan de I'iua,
)de they lie so
the violence of
'-. W. angle ot'
1 hearing onlv
i|i. This po-
I the shoals nl"
(•allega Keel",
ner of tlie cas-
act according
In rise of inrtin? one anrlior, never attempt to let S'* another, hut make sail immedi-
ately, niid run the vessel ri!,du tor the Alcth-. The current, «iii< h runs witli great ve-
locity, M ill not allow you to fefdi the .Mole, hut, steering; (or il, you will (cicli the beach
at the S- K. enil of the city, by which, at least, the lives of iliosi; on board will be saved:
whereas, were yon to take time to let i;o another an( lior, it would not brm<{ you up,
but you would infallibly >;o on either the Lavandera .Slmal, the Isle of Sacrificios, or
ih'; reel of rocks olf tlie I'unta de ilornos, in cither ufw iiich cases not a soul could be
saved.
V(»ii anclior under the f 'astle of San Juan, and near to if, the centre of the castle walls
bcariuj N. .N. K. ,' K., or thereabout.
\'esscls should always keep their fore topinasl staysails, and such others us may be
requireij to run them on the beach, ready bent.
'l"he icels s;enerally show, either by breakina; or by the water's beini; discolored. You
mo(ir with the bower anchors to the N. \V. and north, and a stream anchor out astern
to the S. W.
Desniplion of, anci Dirrctions JoVy the Port of rem Cruz, b>i Von HirUirdo de Orta.
1. The .Sierras of San Martin, whose highest summit is called the Volcano of San
Andres de Tiixtla, bears S. 54'^ •-'()' .'>.t ' E. from ti.f ("usile of San .luaii «le I'lua, distant
'2b leamu's, and is in the proximity of the coa^t. 'he p ':•.!« of (>ri/.;ilta and the Cofre
de I'erote, whi h is found at a little less distance to Mr west, from il-» ,'ireat elevation,
may be seen in clear weather a lonj; distance out at sea : and, particularly at night, the
liijht or fire of the Volcano of Tuxtla, are objects which may la( ilitaic making the port
by fjettiiii; i;ooil b('arin<!;s of them, and thereby resuiitiiijj; the succet-diirj navi"ation.
■J. Tins premised, whether in runnin;; tlirou<;ii the .soun(im.;s of (,'aiiipec' . or kcep-
.ni on the outside of them, in the season of the Norths, tiie r(jur>e Jrhouid be 'in cd to
I'oiiit Delgada ; and in the summer, the parallel of \'er.i Cruz should ou n « ace; ., >t be
run down, (as soine diiections recommend,) on account of the tempes'uous ( rth wmds,
Willi which, and even before they come on. there are currents runnln>; towards the south,
which niav, in some cases, carry a siiip towards tlii' Inner and Outer .'^hoals and more
pariiciilariy on the Ane^nda and Ane^addla: for iliisreasnn. ami because liir .c are such
extensive shoals on the edu'e of these souudiuL's, the land should bemadr to windward, in
19^.'>ll'. or 1*)=40' of latitude, and that too witii the utmost care, in tin onths of May
and ,)uly, on account of the proximity ol' the sun fi the zenith, when many persons are
not siiliiciently expert in the use of their instiumeiits, to attribute their errors to the
curreuis.
.3. llaviu'j; obtained a sii^ht of the land, you vill jmss to the east of Point Delegada,
Bernal, Hcrnal tMiicho, I'oinl Zempoala, cVc. at the dlstr»nce of 4 or.') leagues, and steer-
in:^ from S. by E. to S. S. E. J E. you will gain sight of Vera Cruz or the Castle of Saa
Juan de Ulua, without getting into Antigua Hay.
4. We have seen many, who, coming iVom a lower latitude than 19° 30', steer for th#
pott without doubt, guided by the outer shoals; and if they were, tJie unsteady course
pursueil by some in order to eflect it, and the direct course steered by others, toward*
one or other of these shoals, by which means they have got entangled with a great risk of
being lost, has been observeil. It is intended, as much as possible, to avoid these wander-
ing courses, by methodising the manner of making the port, and by pointing out befor«
the causes that contribute to render the approach to it so uncertain.
5. It is evident they must have proceeded from a |;oint of departure incorrectly calcu*
lated, from two, or jierhaps from one mark or bearing taken on the coast to windward, (i
method always erroneous, by mistaking the objects on the Charts, and more particularly
so, from estimating the distance, (if only one lioaiin'^ be taken.) usually, greater than it
ought to be. Th>' result of this is, that they take their departure from a point and follow
a course more to the eastward than they should do, in the confident expectation of dia*
covering tlie buildings of the city and the castle : this expectation is frequently disap*
pointed, even when they might have seen them, by the culpable negligence, or prejudi'
cial confidence wiih wjiich they navigate, wirudi is evident from the courses they steer,
and the total want of the necessary precautious in approaching it during the night; and
by getting into the parallel of the desired point, without obtaining sight of it, they stand
on until the breakers of one or other of the shoals, under their bows, undeceive them.
The same also happens to those who, by cloudy weather or contrary winds, are pre-
vented from hearing or seeing the signal gun fired fiom San Juan de Ulua, to warn them
of their erroneous course. Hut by whatever method they discover their real situation,
it will have been, most generally, not until much valuable time is lost, that would have
been quite suHicieut to have entered the harbor by da^', aoU passed the night in safety.
3oa
BLUNT H AMERICAN COA8T PILOT.
fi. A main ransn nf estalilishiiin an ijicinTPCt point of dopMrtur*-. is flir crralPror I^M
cltMiiinss (it till' aliiiosplicrc, at liic fiiiii- oC taking thi' iiiaiks on tlic land ; lor when the
marks appear very clear, as tliey an- Jiif;li, they arc t'stiiiiali'd nearrr than they really are,
anil the conseipiences are those pointed out. IT the weather he not i liar, or the mark*
not seen at all, the contrary occurs, and in which there is not so much dantjer, because
tiic beach, the cidor o( the water, or the depth, il due care be taken, will niditatc the
measures that niuvt he adopted.
7. 'I'he most rcinaikable objects Irom which the pi»int of departure is usually estab-
lished, is the most salient point ol" tiie coast, called 'he Sierra or Maria Andrea, (wheiic-
the shore runs to I'oint l)ele<;ada,) which bears Crom the liiuli plallurui «( San .liiande
Uhia N. -J') VV. ; (Bernal bears Irom it N. .ij ' W., IJernal (liichn N .M \V., and I'oiin
Zempoala N. .'trt ' W.;) — It apjiears to be an easy, simple, and sale melhod ol avoidinij
the errors, dangers, and delays, already pointed out; as so soon as out? of these phuts
on the coast is seen and Unown.antI it is determincil to proceed tor the harbor; alter es-
tablishina; a point of bearin>,' with either uf them, .such course should be steered as may
be deemed elii^ible tor nettliii; into one of t'le |;iccedinn bearinys, either the nearest,
or that which is most convenient, acconlinf; to the situation of the ship, and the wind she
then has, or that wliicli is to bo expected; and, on ijetlini; into tin; situation, steer the
opposite c(Mirse, when, if the vessel be more to the southward than was expected, tin
buildings of tlic" city and caslle, and the masts of the Inr^c ships, should tliere be any in
tlie harbor, will be seen ; and if they ue not then visible, they will be seen ahead shortly
alterwards. In either case you should iiianceuvre as before directed.
8. Should it so happen that the buildings, masts, or one of the inner shoals be sueii
hi the S. W. or N. \V. (piarters ; orsupposiii!; that you may be to the eastward ol' these
bearinc;3 mentioned, and also of the Port: and conse{|uently it becomes necessary, ac-
cording to your position, to steer a course in one of these quarters, either to double
these «lioals, if you are much to the eastward or southward, or to open the mouth of the
harbor if you arc not so; with the uiitleistandin:.; that the middle of the Inner Ane^ado,
hes N. 77 V K. \\ miles from tlio Ifmh i)lalf()rm of the Castle of San .lu:in de I lua; and
the N. W. pari of the (Jallega, which must be left on the larboard hand, lies N. lo K.
from it. (Between the latter and tiie inner Ano^;ula, is the Island IJlamiuilla and (iallu-
guilla.)
9. If at that niomcnt the wind should beat larjje from the eastwaril, it will be sufticieni
to pass within sinht of them, and after roundin;,' them, to |)ass within :« prudent distance
of the west points of <Jallei;uilla and («allei;a, for the purpose of l)rins;ins; on the bear-
ings that will be hereafter shown, because the same wind, if it is not northward of K.
by N., will afterward be scant from Point Soidado inward. If at that moment it shoiihl
be scant to the northward, or on the starboard tack, it will be necessary to lulf, in ordii
to pass to the windward of the Ane^ada ; and if this be easily accoiiifjlislied, the (Jalie-
guilla may also be passed, for the most projcetinc; parts to the north of both these shoals,
runs S. 85'' "JO' K., and contrary about .'!', miles; the said Island niancpiilla lying soPie-
What to the south of tills line.
10. If this landfall should take place under su(;h circumstances and weather, that tin;
hdVth wind will not admit of standing to tlie westward to pass to windward of Inner Aiiu-
gadav nor to the eastward to p;vssthe Outer Anegada, there remains no choice but to bear
south ()f Si W., in order, if possible, to takrt slielter under Isle Verde, ((Jreen Island.) or
Ihat of Los Sacriricios, in G to I.] and 1"> fatlioms water, on good liolding ground, ridiiii;
with two or three anchors down until the easterly breezes set in. Hut if from anchorin:;
too far off this slielter does not answer your expectation; if a pilot be on board and tlic
wind continues ahead, so as not to admit you to enter the harbor or to obtain better shel-
ter, it will be advisable to seize the first favorable opportunity of running to anchor uii-
det'Isle Blanquilla, or Hlanca, which is to the nortliward of Point Anton Jiizardo.
11. Some, by their temerity, run into these difficulties when they might have bern
tiVoicled ; for by having obtained sight of the Outer Anegada, they have plied to llu
westward Vi'ith a scant wind, in the persuasion of its becoming more large, which dues
iiot always happen; and the currents still operated on by the head winds, set with velo-
city towards the channels between the shoals. The safest way is, When the wind will
not pp'tnit, according to the situation of the vessel and the time of ilay, a certainty of
pa&ding the Inner Anegada, (which lies with the Outer Anegada bearing S. b')J K., dis-
tant 4 leagues,) and of getting into tlic harbor with daylight, to make a board io the
eastward, because the shoals will be left astern, and because the current being favorable,
will operate with vci-y good effect.
12. If bein" more to the westward, and so situated as to be unable to weather round
the Galle<»uilia, in standing lo the westwani, and the Inner Anegada on the board to the
eastward, you ought, without hesitation, to bear up and steer S.W. or S. S.W.in mid
'channel, between the latter and Blanquilla, which will be seeu on your vtarboard side;
BM-.NTM AMKUICA.N t'OAMT IMI.OT.
301
giT.'itPr or li>sii
lor when the
cv rtiillv iire,
or llic marks
iiii;t'r, t)fciiiisi!
I iriilKiite tile
iisii;illy CMtab-
(lifii, (»»ln'iic»!
r San Jiian de
W ., and I'dint
1(1 dl' avdidui^
r llicM' |)la<\;H
ritor; atler es-
ti'crcd as niav
r the ncarcit,
d th*> wind s|if>
lion, steer IJic
ex|)cctcd, llif
licrc l)t' any in
alioud shortly
flioals he sti'cii
itward ol' these
nt'ccssary. ac-
her to duuljle
nionth of tiie
nner Anei^adn,
de I Ina ; anil
I, lies N. 1 J K.
lilla and (iallu-
il! be sunieicnl
■ndent dislanee
is; on the buar-
rthward of H.
nient it shonid
o lull, in order
lied, the (Jaile-
h these shoals,
lla lyiii!^ soiM'-
v.ither. that tin'
ol' Inner Ant-
lice but to belli
■een Island.) or
ground, ridiii;;
iVoiiiaiK'horiii
board and tlu'
ain better sliel-
; to anchor uii-
Jjizardo.
iglit have been
•e plied to llie
:;e, which does
, set with velo-
the wind will
a eertaintv of
S. ()')J K.,'dis-
a board io the
-; \
Iruvinc tli(! Aiiei^ada and Isle N'erde on the larboard, keepinc ■< i;ood |ord<oiit to nvoirl the
bieakers, and Hleerini; snecestively S. \\ ., W. S. \V., and \\'.. passinii the eastern part
ul the (ialleuii Shoiij on your starboard, and on the I irbu.ird the havendera Shoal, the
Hliallow'tiess of which, as well as those precediiiij; it, will be dislinitly shown by the
breakers on such occasions ; hanlini: up more or less to anchor, in a seamanlike manner,
where other ships will be seen ritlitii; with two anchors down, and letting go \our star-
board anchor lirst.
This is called the S. K. entrante; and Captain D. Kai)io Ali I'on/oni, who made a
survey of the port in Ihii?, ;;ives the roliouini; a>coiiiit ni' it. "As all liie reels which
siirroiin I llie exterior of the port may be >ounib'd,and ihcir dan;;ers seen, and the channels
which ihey lonn, bein^ of considerabli> depth, not less than the sea within them, it be-
comes only necessary to be particularly carcli.! ol that called la Lavendera, (or Washer-
woman.) which is covered with water and eaniiol be distinguished, ex«ept when there \n
some swell, which breaks on it, particniarlv with northerly winds: — 'riiererore, in order
to enter by the South-east <'hannel, when it beciunes necessary to pass near the aliovc
Nhoal, yon will always cb-ar il, by ki'epmi: i'oint (iorda a little open ol the N. K. ancle
ol" the lurtilication, under the I'asile ol ."^an .liiaii de I'lna, until an isolated stone build-
in};, which serves lor a sbiiij'"' -hoU'-e, (omesun «irli the aimleol'ilie city, on the wall
ol' which, and at its poi;;;, is constrncied a biiildiii:: ol Considerable extent, I'or barracks.
Ilavin;; arrived at this last mark, you will have passed the jjavendera suriicienlly to steer
lor the vessels which arc in anchor is;e, but witliont ^oin;; too near the shallow sonndini;)!
at the southern extremity (d'the bank, in which the reel" of (ialleya terminates hereabout.
"The only channel, aliliou;:h (le<'p, whiili iVom its narrowness oiifzht not to be passed
without a <;ood knowledge ol' it, is that tormed liy the reel' ol' I'ajaros with that ol' Sacri-
ficios; the mark lor sailins; throimh it, is that liel'ore jiiven, of keepins; I'oint (iorda a
little openol" the N. K. aii'^le ol the lortilicatioii under the Castle ol San .liiaii <le I'lua.
"The narrowness ol" the deep channel of the liavandera and the ilornos Keel's, doe-s
not allow ol" its bein^ adopted, except by small cral'i willi pilots.
l;j. I'nder the same circumstances, and bciiii; lurilier to the westward, there will be
the choice ol' steerini; south to pass between (iallemiilla ami l?lan(|iiilla Island, and suc-
cessively within sight olthe (lallena Hank, ro'indino; it in the manner just menti(med,np
to the ancliorae;e. In line weather, with a ship ol moderate size, and a competent know-
ledge (jf the place, this passage is more commodious than the N. W. (.'hannel, as it
will save the trouble ol' warpin;;, slnoild the brc/e shilt to the S. K.
11. A little expt rience of the Inner Shoals wdiilil render these diHiculties niurh less
coininon, as there ii as ijood anchoraue uiiiler Isle Verde and the I'ajaras Keel', iis at the
Island Sacrilicios; and also under shelter ol" Isle i^lanca or iMan<|uilla, oil' Point Anton
lii/.ardo, that point itsell". and some ol' the outer shoals, the channels bijwcen which,
with a favorable wind and a competent know led:;e of them, arc (|uitc i'rri' ; for through
them, as well as between all the inner shoals, the harbor may be entered by the S. E.
Channel by ships not drawini; more than Ir^', feet water ; for the bree/.e i;eni'rally raises
a little sea. and the de|)th in the narrow part between the 'Jallena and the Lavandera is
not more than -1 feet.
15. If, in conse(pieiice of any irrcsjnlar navijzation or mistake, either of the channels
that the outer shoals fcuin with each other, or with Point Anton Li/.ardo, should have
boen passed throui.'h with a vessel of s;realcr draii:,'ht than IH.; feet, that is, tlie ship be-
ing between the outer and inner group of siioals; or if, from cilheroftlie.se causes, she
should be in that situation, ami be under the necessity of entering the harbor by the N.
W. Channel, the method pointe I out in the eighth paragraph must be resorted to im-
mediately.
1(). Having thus described the method of entering the harbor by the S. E. Channel,
and explained the incidents that render that passage necessary, we shall now proceed to
describe the principal or N. W. Channel.
17. All the well mounded fears respectin<: this harbor may be removed, by not ap-
proaching it with a fresh north wind, or by mooring or securing your vessel well before
it blows with violence. In other n-spects it presents but little risk for shipping not draw-
ing more than 1. 5 feet water ; for the only invisible dangers for ships of greater draught
in this channel, are the outer and inner T^axas, which are composed of flat stones. The
extensive banks of the (Jallcga and (ialle'_'uilla on the east side of the entrance, and the
reef olf I'oint (Jordaon the west, form the oi)ening ( ailed the Outer Channel, whose extent
is scarcely ,'i miles; and Point Soldado upon the (iailega on the east, with the reef of
Caleta on the west, form the Inner Clianncl. These reefs are visible, jjurticularly when
there is any wind to raise the breakers on them : tliey may be safely passed at the dis-
tance of a cable's length. If there be no sea, and the rising tide has covered the rocks
that terminate the visible salient or jirojecling parts of the (iailega and Galleguilla, n
very moderate degree of cure will enable any one tu distinguish them very readily by the
302
niANT H AMKIUCVN C0.\8T I'lI.OT.
I'v.ii
color of fhf water, ;is tlicy ciiniiot li:ivi! moic ilian .'I iVct ovcriliciii in ihr mortiinijii «liir-
irii; llic siiiiiiiu'r, iiiid in ilif :il(i-riio(in in (lie winter, wliicli ii tlif oril«-r nuHt ufnorviliy
rcncirkitil in rlic irri'i^nl.ir nse id (lie tulcx al lliin pliiic. My ni<;lit t)i> y arr n-ririinly dun-
gi'riins unilcr lilt' iiiiiiliiiiaiiiiti oT il.uknos. Iii.;li wairr, anil bo liltic Mind tliat the sp.i
(Idi's niil hri'al. upon (Im'mi.
1^. Il, in ( ()iiM>i|ni'n('c iiian <*rriir in tlic rfckiiniii^, yon should \tv to the wi-Miward uf
the last of tilt* bearin<;s incnlioni-d in lli<* 7th |iiiraurapli, or ull' Anii^na ISay, th<' roant
il.Mt'iC, or lilt' low land, will point nut llu; ium pssuy nrninnini; aloni; it, S. \:. or K. S. l').,
in Ncaicii of till' harlior. Mhirli will Ix* Nfcn .ilu-ad : Imi \oiioii:hi not to l'o in lets than
b or ') lathonis oil' the pom In Mrava .\n(\ * iorda, the reels nl winch are shown hv the lireak-
cri with all winds, and shiuild it happen that at daylireaU or in the inorninu. the Intid-
hreeze is from Hoiitli t«i S. K., the >hip must he krpt on the >«farhoard laek as long na
po^sihio, in order thai she may he to the northward of the harlmr when the sea-hreeze
sets in ; and there will he no luss nl'tini'.' in running a little to the eastwaid, with liie ex-
peeimion of the wind meliiiiiii: inoic to the N. I.., with which 'lie am hoiaiie may lie
reaehed on nm; taek, iheiehy avoiding the necessity of anchoring outside, and the 8ub-
■ei|neni lalior of warpin<; in.
1'). If, Iroin the saiiif cause, tlie ship should he, at daybreak, t« the north or N. N. K.
of the city, and in si<;h( ot' it, w nh the w ind oil the land, you must not pass to the west-
ward III' till' meridian oT the port, nor olllie lirsi Iiimiiiil! oI' it (menliiined in the 7tli para-
{;raph) with the coast, i( the jiitier h»' in si^ht and the loriner not ; lor should the hree/.c
siiili to the S. K. and the land-wind not reach, or be inclinable to calm, it nii'.'iit cost
some days to net in ; for with siieli winds to the e.istward. the current rims with great
force tothe N. \V. However, with any object in si<;!ii, it will be easily perceived what
method oni;ht to be I" llo«-eil, by aitendin'^ to its bearings, and by niirht tothe soiiiidin'js.
•J(l. Meiii'^ lo the eastward ol the harbor, and seein:; the city and castle, ilie Iimer
Ane^ada, iilanquilla Isle, iVe., with the wind lioin the eastward, which, as mentioned in
the ')th paragraph, may be scant I'rom I'oint 8o|dado inwards, a course must be steered,
more or less tree, according to the wind, so as to brin;; the hifh tower of the castle to
the south, a litile to the eastward of which beariii.; lie-> the N. W. extremity of the ( Jjil-
k'y;a. and seeiiiij it, as well as distin^nishin^ in th city the two towers of San Krancisco
and the jircNiil ihureh,* proceed inwiiid by keepiii'j away to avoid the (ialle!:nilla and (ial-
lei;i, until they appear in a line, bearing simtli or very nearly so, wliii h is tiie first leadinij
mark on the plan ol'tlie |)ort ; but if \ou are lo the westward of that bi-arini;, and (do.e
hauled on tho larboiud tack, it will be Miliirient lo '^ei on it, and alterwards continue on
it, as on bein;; north of the (jallet^iiilla, it will not lie necessary to proceed to the east-
ward, except in the case mentioned in the l^i'.i paras^rapli.
'Jl. i5ein«; to the westward of these shoals in 'Jil or 'Jh fatlinnis water, with liio two
towers in a hne or even with that of the ureal church open to the 8. K. to that of San
Francisco, if tlie wind should be from K. N. i-l.orl'i.by X.. as mentioned in the ')tli para-
graph, you will pro( ceil fur the eiilr;;nce by the lirst mark, diminisiiini; the depth to G
and 4'; fathoms, uood holdiim <:rouiiil. until the s;dieiit an'^h; of St. Crispin's Hastion,
T)rofthe S. E. of tlie t'astic ol'Sm Juan de L'lua, coiii's open with the ecjually salient
angle of the .San Pedro or N. W. IJasiion, (the second mark on the plan,) or, what
limounts to the same thinu, until the wiiole of the Isl.nid of Sacrilicios is open to the .S.
W. of the castle. Tlien sieer lor I'oint lloriios, and successively on proceedins; inward
\o Point Mocainbn or Island of Sacrifn ios, in which directions having passed the Caleia
fi,eef and Point .Soldado, and lufliiii; uporkcf'pin^ away, as may be necessary to keep
the middle of the channel, the harbor may then be entered clear of the ( )utcr l^axa, which
is the most danjTcrous, and also of tiir inner one, by riinniiu! close to llieii- buoys, if they
are laid down, until the aimleof San I'edro's Hastimi bears K. N. E. from the entrance
of the Round House, or from the binnacle, and then lulVnpto leti;o the larboard anchor,
l^hich should lie to the .\. W., and you iiu;:ht to oct upy a place in the lirst tier of siiips;
but should it be necessary to proceed to another, staml further on, and let tro the same
anchor where the pilot may direct. accnrilinL; to the orders he has received for placin;; the
ship, or to the situation which, accordimi to circumstances, she may occupy. In doinp;
this, every thing should be (|uilc clear for anchorini; when you are off the bieastwoik of
the castle, at the'monicnt the order is liiven; for if, on the contrary, there be any delay,
the least inconvenience and risk will be that of weiuhiiif; the anchor again, and carrying
it out, which you cannot always do as you may wish.
• They arc the two westernmost. That of .San Frnncisoo is n complete tower icrminnting in n
square flat roof: the other is not — it has not n third siory, nor n teriiiinntini,' point, nnrl is eonFC-
quendy square. The little tower and cupoln of the HerniilaKC of Pastnra, which is farther to the
west than these two towers, cannot cause any mistake, as it is so small ; nor that of St. Augustin,
wiiidt tcrtsinates uImq in a squaxe flat roof, and lies to Ui« aastward of thisn.
22. If the
thereabout, pr
thi? .S. v.. to ;:
the warp nfl (
be »nMH*t }<ii
board, on lli<-
not gel 'hi"» ■>*
It haul r.lii*r I
the rMv* on
-.>:{. If. from
place, til' « If
It ill al ihe • ■'
right plac^. w
H. U the «
be po<*iblr. Ii
fa<t lo llie nn.
caie, alihoiizl
ronmi.
•i-'y. The uif
the wmd from I
Kite to ihf »ett
past by it. the
not torn iIm-H
mi^hi nut hoi
fur il wiil roiti
neglect of duin
without e\arii|
so thai it« cdol
replaced from
other, and if il
;•>. What I
directed lo ih*-
the be^l cable*
beina the »ea««
deniy. and bio
lime lo prepari
sible to comiin
h'S< it be 2iveii
upon with the i
distance, or bei
W. cable shuu
'.'7. For ihei
mrrownes* of
war or other la
sight of the cit
mouth of I he
when ihe breej
directed in par
point, warps in
allow it. witboi
have been any
never been exp
the clearest sk
'.'8. If on ar
or of the light
Ace. in I'rom 50
thinz prejrared
which ought lo
vre or work as n
size of the siii|
ing all the sail
da, where then
to run for the 1:
BLUNT S AMKRir.\N COAST PILOT.
303
ornifn;* «lnr-
fri.iiiilv (hill-
(li;it (lie sea
westward of
iiv, llf rojiHt
, or K. S.i;.,
) in If IK than
ty tlu! Iirt'iik-
iil;. llic liinil-
k ii*< liinc ill
If st'ii-l)i»-p/.e
Willi ilie I'x-
intue may he
and the Hub-
I or N. N. K.
to the wrst-
tlif Till pnra-
Id I In- hit'Pzo
I iiii'ilit tost
[IS Willi girat
iccived what
u' soiiiidin'j's.
Ic, the FuiiPr
iiicntioiH'd ill
*l jjr stfcri'd.
tilt' casile !o
y ol' lliP ( Jal-
;in Kraiicisco
iilla and (ial-
(iist li'adiiiu
li;, and (dor e
i-ontiniie on
I to the east*
with tlir two
I tlial dl' San
ihc Mth paia-
c {k'pth to G
ill's iiastion,
iially salient
n.) or, what
ten to the .S.
■dins; inward
d the Caleta
sary to keep
Laxa, which
iioys, il they
the en trance
oard anchor,
tier of ships;
tro the same
r placinj; the
In doing
n east will k of
le any delay,
and cariyiug
rminntinp in n
and is eon?e.
fiirthrr to the
St. AuguBtin,
CAITIONS.
22. If ihe anchor rrmniiii in it» proper piare, and the wind bi" from E. N. E.. or
thrrralioul. procrcd wnh ruiiiiinii out a warp nfat Iriiiot two strriiin ealtleM or liaMmprH lo
lh»? S. K. 10 2«*i ill*" %hip up nearly to the li.-iih which hIic is to occupy ; and 'iv pa«<<iiif>
the warp :ifl (whuh will lie attended wii'.i no little tnuilde, as Imih wind and tide will
be a{CaiiiAt you.) he;«ve her round and c.iny niil Njirinus : at the same liinr receive on
buanl. on iJie KiarlHiard fi le, the hend o| a calde, which is kept ready ; and if you do
not gel ih» ii»»iiiianri>, vt/ii must kciiiI a stream calde to he made last to the rinu, and with
it haul i.lii<^ in. nhieh will al'terwards serve as a ^iiy lor the laiiin h to carry the ends of
llie r;ildpti on %liori-.
•J.{, It. from the •tciiitiness df the w ind. the am lior has not hceii dropped in il« proper
place, the warp mu>t he of urci'tcr leni^th, or a.nothcr iniisi he; prepiiied, that by heaving
It in at the liame limp At the cable, the anchor niny he tripped und let go n^'ain in its
rishf place, wiiliriut imiiediiii: the ccneral work.
•.M. If the w:'ids h" Iroiii N. K. to N.. or in the N. \V. ipiarter, it is advisai)|e, if it
he |xis«ible. befiire InaviiiL: in the c.dtli', to have on hoard the hawser, winch is made
fait lo llie rinz or to the end or hi^lit ol the calde pr''parcd in it to haul in hy. In this
case, alihouzh the current selM inward, there will he little dilhculty m brin^in;: the »hip
round.
•J.>. The utnioftt rate will be necessary with tlie N. \V. anchor, when anchoring with
the wind from K. N. K. to K. S. K., hccanse as yon must let il t;o on bearings nearly oppo-
site lo ihe tCKsel when moored in her place, il' il does not turn when you are warping
past by it, the crown will remain to\var<ls the ship insttad of the riii;; : and if no. it will
nol turn itvlf until she come to han^ hy it in some north wind, and then perhaps it
inijihi not hold. It is therefore indispensably necessary to ascertain this immediately,
for it will co«i but liiile troulile to W(>i.:h it, and drop il auaiii in a proper manner, the
neglect of doina which miuht be attended with preat daii;ier; an omission, however, not
without examples. It i» also necessary to he very careliil in jdai iri^ this .\. \V. am hor
so that it< cable should not bear a <>reater strain than that to the \. I!. : the latter tan be
replaced from the castle or the vessel ; but the I'oriiicr cannot either from one or the
other, and if it faiU, a tragical catastro|)he may ensue.
0'>. What lias been said in the iiisinii tions respecting tlie winils by lliis author, it
directed lo llie object of rea- hiii:; this port, properly prepared with \ anchors ready, and
the best cables bent, and also tor lyini; in it, without placiiit; any conlidence in lis not
being the season of the norths; for, ;is ht-iore noticed, tiiey sometimes come on no sud-
denly, and blow with such violence out of that siiason, that at sea they do r;ot afl'ord
lime lo prepare lor them properly ; ami in the liarhnr they render it in a moment impos-
sihle to cominufiicate with the shore hy boats, and mncii more to i;et any .assistance, un-
less It be given from the ("iirtain ol the ("astic; and which cannot always be reckoned
upon with the necessary |)rom[)titiide, either from being impracticable on account ollhe
distance, or because an interposed vessel or tier ot ships may prevent it ; and if the N.
W. calde should fail, there is no remedy, as 1 have before said.
'27. For these reasons every mariner who is acipiainled with the exposed situation and
mrrownes<» of this harbor, can infer how dangerous it will be, partiiularly for a man of
war or other large vessel, during the season of the norths, to anchor at nighlfall «ritbin
sight of the city: or afterwards, in siiiht of the iiglil in the lighthouse, and also in the
mouth of the Inner ('liannel. that is, abreast or oil' I'oiiit .^oldado, as it hap|>en9 that
when the bree/.e comes to the .S. H.. it will not permit of seeking security in the manner
directed in paragra|;hs _»•.' to ".M ; and therefore, whenever they have to anchor off that
point, warp* must immediately be got ready lor warping in the very in!«lant the wind will
allow it, without delaying it under niiy consideration whatever; because, whether there
have been any synt; oiiis of Norths or not, gales more violent or more sudden, have
never beep experieu^ - <\. than those which have come on the screiiest nights, and wfth
the clearest sky.
'Jr^. If on account of ralms, a ship has been brought to anchor in sight of Vera Cruz,
or of the lighthouse, or out of sight ol' them on the coast of Chacalacas, Juan Angel,
ice. in t'rom -30 to -.id lathoins, good holding ground; the topsails should be reefed and every
thing pre[Mred f«r weighing on the slightest wind or appearance of ( londiness in the north,
which ought lo warn you: .>r to slip or cut, if it comes on suddenly, that you may manoeii-
vre or work a* may be necessary, in conse(|uencco( its force, the time, the situation, and the
size of the ship, or other circumstances ; whether by standing to the eastward and carry-
ing all the sail possible, which is the most certain method of clearing the Outer Anega-
da, where there is the greatest danger, or by standing oH' and on until daylight and then
to run for the harbor, or to run for it with sail proportioned to the distance and the time.
304
bunt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
But of tlipso two l;vst (Iptcrminations, tin* liist on^lit only to he tiikcn in caso of being en-
taiif^Ied luid iinal)le to clear the liiiicr Aiieifada; ami tliv second from urgent necessity, in
conse()iien(' of shortness dC provisions. d;iiiiaut's. Arc. or tVoni havinij n sniali vessel with
good anrliors and caljh's, and snnicieiil experience to wori\ with eoi rectness ; or in case
of tne w ind's (h-cren-iiir^, wiien il nii^lit lie practicable to rim in towards tiie coast, ^'ou
oiiglit always to keep in mind the risk there is, particularly with a larf;e ship, in going
into the harlior in tlie strength of the gale, for it blows more violently within than it does
without; and casualties niav defeat the most ably concerted measures for anchoring, un-
der ( irru!nsi;iiices so critical as those produced by the combination of a violent wind,
heavy spa, narrowitess of the anchorage, the numbers of anchors scattered over it, the
vessels iti it, and the want ol' assistance. < >n such occasions the necessary operations
are not a little embarrassed by the mehuu iioly eOects produced by ships driven frnna
their anchors, and others oliliged to cut. driven ashore on the Homos J\eel", or the Lavan-
dera Shoal, to the iuimiucnt peril of many lives.
'J'). Some expose iheiuselves to these difficulties wlien they Jiiight be avoidod ; for on
geitiiig within .4ght of \'era Cruz, at the dose of day, they stand on towards the har-
bor with an eKpect.tiou of the contimiaiice of the breeze, but this does not always hap-
pen; for although it might favor them a little, yet in general, it gives way to the land
wimJ, (from west to soiitli when it annom.cos fine weather, and if from north to west it
indicates :htt contrary.) or to a calm ; conseipiently frustrating the attempt in the first
case, and in the latter they are compelled to remain outside anil exi)ose(r
30. Knowing this, and that wlien t)ie land breeze comes, tliere is no dependence upon
its continuation, or that if «ill be siiit;i!)le for cleaving the (iaileguilla and (tallega, and to
open the mouth of the harbor, it will be necessary at sunset, (when the mano iivre made
can be seen from tlie signal lower, or even before,) to determine tlie sucreediug opera-
tions, according as the season of tlie year, ajipearance of tlie weather, the distance from
Vera Cruz, or the shoals, and the number of ships in the harbor, may render them ad-
visable; and should there exist the smallest doiiiit of being able to get in before dark, if
in the time of the norths, it \\ ill be expedient to haul to the wind on the starboard tack, and
statid oil" for 7 or H leagues to the .\. N. W., .\. .N'. K. or N. K. of it. Such a position
will be a good (me in i ase of a north wind <'oming on during the night ; and if not, lor
working at daybreak, so as to get early in .sight of the castle, city, Arc. ; hut if you have
not a large ship, and" if it he nut in the season of the Norths, this precaution will admit
of some modiliciUions.
.'U. From the prt'ccdiug remarks il will be inferred that entering the harbor by night,
is by no means to be aiijiroved of, especially with ships of the line, or of ships of nearly
the same draught. It has, however, been successfully done, and doubtless will be ac-
complished again, but the author of these Jiistructions once entered it witli a combina-
tion of all desirable circumstances, and yet very narrowly escaped the most disastrous
consequences.
32. Notwithstanding what has been said in the instructions relative to the winds, if in
the good season there can be any ccmiideuce in them, it may be exjieeted in the months
of May, June, .luly, and perhaps August, during which, in approaching the liarbor, and
Hearing the Inner ('haniiel. it" with a lar^e sliip. the following instructions must be ob-
served, if the wind will permit ; l-ui if not, according to the greater or less distanc e yon
may be from the harbor, when il becomes adverse, or falls calm, either come to an an-
chor or not, in the conlidence that every [)racticab|p assistance will be given you, and
th?t you will have a pilot otf with the least possible delay, by two guns in (|uick succes-
aion, as an indieatimi both of your intention to anchor and being in want of a pilot,
which will be answered from tiie castle bv twojMius lieing (ired in slow succession, bntli
to indicate your signal hath lieen understood, and to give an opportunity, by the flash of
the second gun, of taking the bearing, if not previously ascertained.
33. Night then coming on. when you are in si^ht of \'^era ( 'niz and of the lighthouse,
on the east side of the harbor, and of one, two, or three miles to northward of the In-
ner Anegada, Blancpiilla Island, or the (iaileguilla, steer to the W. N. W. to open the
mouth of the harb(u-, until the liglithoiise bear.s S S. W. and then to the West, until it
bears south; and afterwards S. W. until it bears .S. by E., when you should steer south,
which will be on, or n»a'ly so, with the first leading mark of the plan and in the CMifer
Channel, diminishing the depth to barely 4., fathoms, until the light bears S. K. \ K., in
which situation, (where it is usual to take a pilot.) if it be a sIkj) of the lino, or one of
great^draught of water, and you have determined not to enter, let go an anchor to wait
for daylight. But if the ship he of a medium draught, and without a pilot to direct the
entrance, which it is dKsirahle to effect, you must steer S. E. by S. for the purpose of
passing the Outer Laxa, until the light bears E. by S., when you must stand in E. S.E.,
passing close to the N. W. buoys, and proceed afterwards as directed in paragraphs '-J1
to 24, or seamanlike, as diiferent chcumstauces, not therein specified, may occur.
•?
I
3'». Should
N. W- of the
south bein;; o
according to tl
Finally, shn
near to tlie slu
<iorda. and so
or until you (ii
after which E.
water, so somi
without danijei
times be passei
<')f the disiatu
the apparent
to lie JT').') t(
of the intert
iV.iril III,.
A in
ntrii'
I'l-.k
III
Kli-^..i
03
2°
IJ'
f,C,
4
(.')
50
7 -J
4S
1 ')
42
1 ^
35
.■^1
2'»
-1
23
■■"7
Irt
'HI
13
'}:!
8
%
3
<)')
58
1 0-,'
0
54
105
0
50
108
0
40
111
0
42
114
0
38
117
0
.•55
1^0
0
.Tl
1-JO
0
25
!.S2
0
18
1.18
0
12
144
0
7
150
0
1
FROM VE
Cruz the coast
with some sinr
calacas, thus f(
the same direc
ing also betwee
of 3 miles the
westwank, and
W. from Zein)
On the soutl
railed nernal (
the roast of tin
5,7 fathoms wal
tfee N. W. (|u;i
* Althoiifih the
giving them in fi
■i
BLIWT S AMEllICA.N COAST 1»II,()T.
305
of beinc; cn-
iierossity, in
vcssj'l with
; or in case
oast. You
ip. in going
tlian it does
•horina;, un-
iolent wind,
over it, the
y operations
rhiven trom
• the Lavan-
do() ; for on
i(Ih tlie har-
alway- hap-
to the htnri
til to west it
t in the first
idence upon
liiega, and to
(I'uvre made
pdiiij; opera-
istanc- from
icr them ad-
■fore dark, if
ard tack, and
•h a i)osition
id if not, for
if you have
n will admit
)or hy nijlit,
ps of nearly
will he ac-
a combina-
t disastrous
winds, if in
tlie months
harbor, and
mist be (ib-
istance yon
le to an ali-
en yon, atifl
nick siK'Ces-
t of a pilot,
ession, both
the flash of
liirhrhoiisp,
d of the In-
to open the
I'^ost, until ii
steer sontli.
n tiie ('iitPi
K. I K., in
0, or one of
lior to wait
to direct the
[)urpo.se of
ill E.S.E.,
ragraphs 21
ccur.
I
34. .Should niiiht come on when yon are on the meridian of ti e liarl)or. or to the N.
Jh. VV. of the lighthouse, steer so as to l)rin^ it to bear S. by K., and froiii thence steer
south beins on, or nearly on, with the first leading; mark in the |»lan. and then proceed
;ir('iirilinu; to the loreixoiiii; parauraph.
finally, should ni::iit c(»me on when you are N. W. by N. (Vom the li::lit, which will bff
.near to tiie shore, you must steer K. or K. by S., to pas:; clear of the I'diiits Hrava and
(iorda, and so soon as the latter is passed, steer S. K. by S. (U' towards the lii;lit itself,
or until you (ind iVom b to 3 fathoms, and then S. S. K. until the lii;lit bears E. by S.,
liter wliii'h K. S. K. into the liarlxu': but if you have a ship dr?win2 less than 1.') feet
water, so soon as I'oint (iorda is i)assed. you may continue on the S. I'", bv S. c(jurse
without (!aiii:er of I'oint .Soldado, the Caleta, or from the Outer Laxa, which may somt;-
tiiucs be passed over.
TAlJl.K
')f the distances of the Penk of Ori/.ava. in the province of Vera ("rti/., aceordiiia; to
the apparent An;;les of Klevation ; supposinjr its real heij;lit above the level of the sea
to be JT')-') toises, m' ■Vl/O.l l'',ii;;lisii yards, and the terrestial relVaction one sixteenth
of the interce|ited arc. l)y Don .Jose! .Joa(|uim Ferrer.*
I'SE OK TIIK. TaBI.K.
The first column indicates maritime miles; tlie second
the ajiparent aii;;iilar altitudes of the Peak ot' ( )ri/,ava,
ciirrespondiiin to the miles stated ; the third indicates the,
variation of the anjjular altitude in 3 miles of distance to
'■',1' 4r*", and in G lailes to ] ' 5-i' .
HXAMI'I-K.
.'>uj)pose that the altitude of the Peak above the hori-
zon of the sea, was observed to be 0 ;')')' 0", and that the
depression or dip, was 10' 20"; what is tiie tlistance be-
tween the vessel and the Peak of Ori/.ava? — Ilori/<mtal
allele observed cfurected lor tlie error of the instrument
observi'd with. 0^ yy 00"
J)ip of the !iori/.on, 10 20
|J(^ .11.. L-
Ali^arcti* Aiij^les
ii.ii
•; ■' 1
III
f.T
3 3II.I 1
IV ik^
Kli-iilioii.
em,\-. 1
b3
2°
12'
58"
8'
.,«/.
(,(>
■ 1
4
21
•')r*
(.')
Ob
2.3
^
7 J
48
28
f.
2.)
5()
/ •)
42
02
(,
.30
t ^
J!)
32
{.
07
.-1
2')
2J
45
.-^1
23
40
••^7
18
12
.0
11
MO
l.i
1
4
.07
'};!
H
1
4
43
%
3
21
4
30
')')
bS
.01
4
20
J 02
hi
31
4
■ li
1 ^
' 3
: 3
3
6
\ 6
5
O.I
5'J
51
42
35
28
:V)
15
57
41
24
105
.00
2.3
108
0
46
24
111
0
42
33
114
0
38
51
117
0
35
16
120
0
31
48
126
0
25
9
:32
1.38
2
18
12
54
57
144
0
7
16
o
5
1.00
0
1
52
Apparent altitude of the Peak,
48 40
On ronsiiltins the table, it will be seen that this angle
is eoinpreheiided between 105 and 108 miles distance, and
without any other oi)eration, it is at once seen that it is
r.early 10!) miles; but if it is desired to determine it with
Lireater accuracy, note the dilfereiice for 3 miles in the an-
iiular altitudes between the two distiinces that are nearest,
which is 3' 5')", and the diirerence between the angle ob-
served, an<l t'lat eorrespondii'i: in 105 miles of distance is
r 43; therefore the true distance will be = 106 +
.3' XI' 43."
T'sr ^^"'''~^'^"'"''^^''''*'"'
FROM VERA t'RTZ TO THE RIVER TAMPICO.— From the Harbor of Vera
Cruz the coast trends about N. 5:>'^ W. a distance of i 1 mites to the River Antigua, where
with some sinuosities it extends N. 20^ W. U miles farther to the Point and River Cha-
ralacas, thus forming a Hay named that of Aiiii':ua. From ('hacalaeas, it continues in
the same direction North 20 \V. (> long miles farther to the Point of Zempoala, form-
ing also between the two a bight extending to the wi^stward, ami in which at the distance
of 3 miles the River Juaii .\ngtl discnliogues. I'riuii Zempoala the coast trends to the
M-estwank, and forius a regular bav with Point Ijcrnal, which lies about 10 inil^s N. 21"
W. from Zempoala Point. This" Point I'.ernal liears from \'eia ("ru/, N. 29° 28' W.
On the sotitli side of Point Hernal and at the distance of aliout a mile there is an islet
railed Hernal f'hicho, which bejirs from V^eraCru/ N. 31" 52' W. and which as well as oil
the coast of the bay is 'ery clear : there is room to pass between it and the point in 5 and
5.; fathoms water without risk. To the south of it there is shelter against winds from
ihie N. W. (juarter as far as North, but none from winds to the Eastward of North. —
* Aithoup.h the foretjoirur directions by Don Bernardo do Orta are somewhat verbose, we prefer
giving them in full to curtailing them-
39
no:
BLU.NT .S AMERICAN COAST PFLOT.
Ti) nnrlior in this liny, tlieic is rui tx'cil I'ur ;iiiy oilier ttiiidf lli;iii tiic Icud, tlicfc lifinj;, af
li;(ll';i mile lioiii llif lit iicli, I ' r;itli(iiiis wiitcr. ( )(!' iIm' cdiist lictwct'ii Z('iii|M);ilit and Hrnial
tlicro is a slidal « liich is visililc. ;iihI « liicli lies ikhiIi a liltl'' casti'iiy t'niiii Zcmjidala I'oiiit,
at the disiaiict; dl f miles, and at a similar distance iVdm the cdasi alneast ol it. It is ne-
r(!.ss.nv to he eaiitioiis dl' it, esperialiy in tlie nii;lit time; and witli lai^e shi|is it shonld
always he passed nn the oirside. Inr in the rhanind lietween it a!id tlie shore, there is a
r\ui.v ol' nicks rnnmnu dll'the land dn \vhi( h there are not 4 fathdnis water.
I'"r(im I'diiit U<'rn il tlie eoast niiis North a distance d(" l miles td that nl' .Maria Andrea,
which hears I'rdm \' > ra Cru/. .\. "Jfi' '.VJ .' W. Krdni I'dint .Maria Andrea the distance is
<) mdes N. IH^ \V. to INiint J)el^ada. whence tin; cnast trends N, .'}:$'' \V. 10 miles to
I'dint I'iedras, (rom which the dircctidii oi'tlie coast continues N. Xi" W. a distance (if
70 i:;iles to the Kiver 'riis|iaiii ; iVdm tiiis river the distance is IT) miles N. 1.')° W.tdtlio
liar (irTanmiiid, and theneeit is -j:! miles N. ID' \V. td Cape Komi, which liy ^dod oli-
servatidns is in latitude -Jl • .'!'>' N. and 1^ 14' 4.j" west hm.^itude iVdiii \' era Cruz.
Between ('ape iloxo au.l the Itiver 'i\ispaiii there are varicius shoals and islets lyin:;
at a distance IVdm the coast, which t'orm gcidd breakwaters atid e.xci.llent nnchoraucs,
.slieltercd iVdm the .\drtlis. The (irst and the southermuost, is the shoal oC 'riispam,
lyiiiLj alidut 11 miles .\.h()'K. from the liver of that name; on this shoal th're are somr;
vt^ry ^niill "lets, a;.,! ./ii tlie S. W. y.-yi .>!' it rl;, :;• i,. i;d(id ancliora^e in Irom V Id ') laili-
oms water, (in coarse sand, at alidut 2 caliles' leri','lh Irdm its edy;e. AlidUl .\. W.jVoiii
this shiial, and at the distance oC 1'2 miles, i.s the l5ajo dc Kiinu'dio or Middle Sluial,
which is distant iVdiii the coast and east of the liiver Taiisiuijd .-< miles; this shoal i.;
much smaller than the precediii;:; liiif it alldrds L'ddd anc hora-e on the S. W. part, in
i)l, 7 or ') fathiiMs, (;n sand. North soiriewhat to the east ol' this slnial. and at the dis-
tance di'o', miles, is that iiaini d Tatr^i; j'l ."'Imal, w liich (in its S. W. part presents heiier
anclii)ra.'.M' than either (if those just mentioned. 'The channels formed hetween these
two shoals arc very clear, with a good depth, and between them and the coast there arc
no dangers hut what are visilde.
Olf Cape Koxo arc thi^ Islands Rlanquilla and Tiobos; the fust, whicli is a bank wiili
several small islets on it, lies H. 8. E. f (im the Cajie, distant about 5 iiiilea : south a little
easterly from it, and at the distance of h miles, is the Island fiobos, in lat. '^V 'Jh' N. anil
longitude I'' 8' 4')" W. of Vera Cru/.. From the iiortli side of thi.s Island, a izreat
ro(d\y slmal extends, wjfu h leaves a strait of only .'] miles wide beiwccu it and I51an(|uilla:
and in the middle ol" this strait there is a shoal; so that the utmost caution is r!(|uireii
in passliia thr(ju;;h it. Tn the .S. W. of these islands there is an excellent anchora;;!',
well sludtered from thi? Norths, and which re(]uires no particular instructions for reacli-
.\11 thf! coast which we have described trdiii \ era Cru/. td Cape Roxo is (dear and deep,
and without any other dangers than the rocky ridges whi(di stret( h oil' from .liian Angel.
in the Hay of iJernal and at Point ( iorda ; and throughout tiie whole of it tliere is a bank
of soiuKiings extending from the shore 8 or 10 '."agues, and is so deep that at one or twu
miles from the beach there are from 4.7 to 6 I'athoms. The laml is not very high, and
terminates almost at every i)art in a sandy beach, is covered with Inushwood and small
trees whicli are very thi(d< and shiiw their verdure at a nidd(Mate distance, and althougli
there are eo ])rdminent marks to distinguish the land by, the latitude will be sufficient tn
point out wli.if part of the cdast a ship m.iy be dii. ,Nev( rlheless, it may serve in sonic
ca.ses to know tliat .^ldunt 8t. Juan and tin; Island Blan(|uiila bear 8. 6.5^ W. and N.Oo
E. from each other.
From Cajje Jidxu the coast rounds or trends to N. 1')" W. a distance of 7 miles, am!
forms the front of llie Cape ; and thence to the mouth of Tampico [liver, the bearing anil
distance are N. .34^ W. 4.'1 miles. Tlie Kiver Tampico is considerable, and has a suf-
ficient depth of water for shi[is that draw less than I'J feet ; the liar lies N. W. and 8. K.
on wliich there is more or less water, arcording to the currents df iiie river : it is situatiil
by good observations, in latitude •,'•.'" 1."/ :iO" N.and longitude, 1° 4'J' :).")" W. from Yen
Cruz. Althougli in this line of coast there [uv no marks which can be distinguislipil
but by jiiiots, nevertheless a hrit:ht whicli is to the southward of the mouth of the Kivci
may serve as a guide (it is the highest land between Cape Koxo and the bar, where liic
heights of Macale, Chapapote, and .Marfiner, cdinmence) ; and also the opening ol'tlu'
land formed by the river's mouth, which is easily distinguished at the same time as lln
surf on the bar. You may anchor, as Ik fore said, in any depth you please, as the grniiii'l
is good for holding; the only iucoii\('i)ince being the sea raised by tin; wind, and the
heavy sea diirim: the calm nights.
About .') miles within the bar, upwards, there is a little channel on the southern bank,
tvhich leads to the lagoon of Tampico, or Old Town, with three islets in it; and at tlir
entrance the Old Town or that of Tampico, bears about 8. 8. W. Irom the Bar, distant
scarcely 6 miles. To the N. W. of that channel, theie is another which leads to the
turn "f Altamiii
that of Pannet
Coast, (omprisi
iiated. thcie is
of Tamiagau In
Direct ions j'lj
Tampico Bai
of the coin|)ass
the same appea
river: o.'i that a
*•!::])■ '")mi:.g
mediately to i.'ei
If the laiilude c
fall; but in the
to the nortliwar<
there is a range
pass abdiii •') or (j
on the fall of a (
is the only town
houses, liki! bar.
l-'rom this to«n
the river cannot
three or four sm;
in lat. 2-i" 23', a
you are fi or 7 m
flic entrance of i
shore, haviiii; tin
are the only obj
making the land.
Having made i
W. or 8. W. by
anchor ; your di>
and clear, being I
of room to get ni
least shidtered fn
veniber to the iin
that cannot go in;
lile for any ship ti
eastward of norti
tion ought to be |
sign of its blowin
ings ; then bring
liy N. to N. by V
The entrance o
neral depth of wa
coining out anri i;
being composed c
day and smooth w
a stranger. It is
'ioing in. and coir
voii attenifit it ;
wind, you will fm
winding your boal
there are from .'3 to
!■< navigable about
"f Tampico : it s
'»lie. Boats cuii I
BLU.Nt's AMKUICAIV coast VltAYV.
307
ii- ;iii(l drop,
iMii Aiifjel,
11 ' is a bank
one or [\\u
y liii;li, and
iii(i siimll
III altlioiigli
sufilicient to
ivc ill soint;
iiid M. 06'
turn of AltaiTiia; ami 10 Icanut's in a stiai^lit lint' fioni that ol' 'rani]ii<'f) up tlie rivpr, in
tliat of I'annfo; at all tlin'f towH'^ provisiidis ol' t-vtiv suit may Itc oldaiiird. On the
('(last, (■()n)|)risi(l Ixlwccn 'i'aii;;nij(i anil ilif River 'l'aiii|)ii n, in wliicli ( 'a|ii' Koxn is sit-
natfd, tiii'if is imtliiii:' iiiori' tliaii a narrow tonj^ue ol land, wliit ii srjiarau's tin; lajjoou
ol' Taniiagau (rum tlic sea.
Dirccliuns for 'J'aiiijiiru AncJioragi' am/ Jiar, hi/ ('did. .luJiu Mavlallur "J II. B. M.
Ship Pujue, Irild.
Tanipico Bar is situated in hit. 'J'J I'j' .'id" X. and lon^. •J7'' oO' IH" \V. ih,> variat
ion
of till' fonipass f^'' •!') I'".. As tlii' lain! is low all around tliis place, am! Iiavin;; nearly
rather diClieiilt lor a strantrer to lind out the entrance (jT the
tl
e same appearance, it i-
river; o;i tliat acctiunt I wonid recconieml pmeeedini; in the (ollowin:;; iiiaunei-: —
<)v.\
)-■ eomi:
ti-.)ii
1 ti
1' c
'ii >vanl
h:
(t Sl'llW
i.i (<il
lUMIIs, 1)11 ,||i III).
niediatelv to net into the lat. ot "J'i H>' or 'i'-l^ IS, and iVoni that make a west coiirsn.
If th
e laiitmle can l.(; asc-ertaiiied, this is the most certain niethod cd' iiiakin;: a
and
fall; but m the event of your not beiii^ able to ijet your liititiide, and making your land
to the northwaril or southward of the river, it may be known thus : in the lalitudi.' o( '2'S'
lliere is a ran;ie ol' small liilb not higher than lar^e houses ; this land is S. by [•'.. by com-
pass about o (U' (» lea<;ues t'roiii the bar. In latitude '2.1 ')', and apparently 4 miles in sliore,
on the fall of a cliU', stands tin* 'I\)wn of 'J'ampieo, which may be seen from tin- sea, and
is ' ■
V
the only town on this part of the coast : in tiie south end of it there are two loni!; \« iiite
loiisf-s. like barra(dvs: the rest appears to be scattered honses oil' to the X. i\. \V'. —
rom this town to the anchor'itr<! olf tin; bar, it is north (» or H mih
TI
\v entrance to
the river cannot be made out more than 4 or .0 miles olf, as there is notliiiiii nmre liian
tliree or four small boats on the south side of the entrai
ice.
To tlie norih of the rive
in lat. 1!'J'^ 'J.T, and ^j or 4 miles in shore, there is a small (lat hill: this appears, when
you are b or 7 miles olf, in the sliapiintl' a flat bo;it, bottom upv/ards; between this and
the entrance of the river, tlie while sand covers the tops of the small hillocks alonj; the
shore, having the a|)pear;mce of small sand hills, rather than of a sandy beacli. These
are the oidy objects that can be pointed out to be of any assistance to a stranger in
niakin;j; the land.
Ilaviiii; made the river out, and intendint; to anchor, brinj; the entrance of it to bear S.
W. or S. W. by W. and run in on that bearing until you are in H or 7 fathoms, and tlien
anchor; your distance from the shore will be about ."i miles. 'J'Ik; bottom is very good
and (dear, being fine soft njud, and holds well to the northward of the river, with plenty
of room to get under way, should it come on to blow ; but this am liorage is not in tlie
least shtdtered from eitlu'r wind or sea ; and during the winter mouths, that is, from No-
vember to the middle of April, when the norlheriy gales prevail, no vcssid is safe here
that cannot go into the river ; for these gales blow w ith suidi violence that it is impossi-
ble for any ship to remain at her anchors; and in the event of the wind's coming to the
eastward of north, you cannot carry sail to clear the land. Therefore particular atten-
lion ought to be paid to the appearance of the weather; and as soon as there is the least
sign of its blowing, get uinler way and make sail to tin; X. K. utitil you are olf sound-
ings ; then bring to for a c'lange of weather. "JMiese gales, in general, blow froiiiN. W.
by N. to N. by \V., and I iiave never s!>en them to the eastward of north.
The eiUrance of the river is, I think, the most dangerous I have ever seen. The ge-
neral depth of water on the ' 'r, is I'rom rt to 14 fi'et ; and the strong run of tlie river
enniing out and meeting the surf, makes one continual sheet of bndicn water, the bar
being composed of (|uicksaiid, which shifts with every gale of wind; and even in a fine
day and smooth water, and at the anchorage, the bar has a very alarming ap]>earance to'
a stranger. It is attended with much greater dangi-r on coming out in a boat than in
going in. and coming out with the wind blowing in, oujlit to be well considered before
yon attempt it ; f<u' should you be prevcnied I'rom pulling out by the heavy sea and
wind, you will fmd great difticulty ui getting back against the stream of the river; and
winding your boat is attended with greater danger than all the rest. Within the river
tlier<^ ar(> from :! to h f.uhoms (d' water, and it is alxuit three tjuarters of a mile broad. It
is navigai)le about .'!') leagues iVoni iis entrance. About .3,', miles up, is the old vilhge
of Tampico : it stands on the south side of tin; river, or rather on the south side of au-
Like. Boats cau.uuly go within half a mile of it.
/
308
BLUNT S AMKIMCAN COAST Pl(.Or<^
]1I:RI?II DAS OK S07Bi:iS'S ISfiA.\i>S.
(jc/'crtil liiKlnicfioii ' I'lr nitt/iiiirr ihr Hi rnnnlti J stiiti (!<■■.
Sjiint riooifje's 'I'ltwn, at i\w fasteiii iiiil,
Wit'ck Hill, at till! wfstorii iMid
S. \V. Urtakcis
Iitililudr.
Id'
Variation 3° W.
(A m
G4 45
Ifi.iih water, full .iiid ciiantio, at St. (Icnri^c's, oik? ((iiarlrr past.'*, ('oiiininn X'h\< ?
rise ahdut I left ; but on the s|iriiigs, or in f;aU'.s of winii, rrf'(|iifiitl)' to d and 7 I'li't.
Tin- Moods ill llif olVmi; set to ihc r*3. K. and chli to ihr S. W. but iirnr tlic sliore thfv
mil in various (liri'clioiis. These islands" heini,' siiiKiiinded witli iiiniitiierable slioal-
nmcli |ireeaiilioii is necessary in a|)|)r(iaebiiifi llieni. Tlie j)riii(i|).il daiiijers lie to lb'
westward and imrtliward. ami extend, liimi llic land, bet\v«'en .'! and ;> leaijues, in a diiii
west line, I'roiii tiieir soiitii-westn n |)oint (round nortlicrly) to u N. N. \\- one, I'rotn Da-
vid's Head, their eastern extreme. 'IMie reiiiainder of the coast, rorniint; their southern
and eastern boiindarv, may be afiproaihfd in every part witlim a mile, and in several
places to less than hall' that distance.
On account of the prevalence of westerly winds in the /Xtlai tic, it has becoine the
general practice lor all vessels bound to the IJerniudas to make me land from the west-
ward, by tjettinji into their latitude about the G.-^tli dejiree of loni^itude, and then steering
an east course till they become visible.
When riinninii <lown a (larallel for Bermudas, with a larjiP wind, and not making the
land towards nieht, but expectiiu; to be near it, no vessel in this situation oiiiibt to lie
to, but should rather turn to windward und;r air easy sail until <layli};ht, because of a
probable current which is variable, and it is known that vessels have been earried by it
out ol'their reckoniiii; to the distance of many leaaues, and brousiht them urie.v'iei teilly
amonj: the rocks, 'j'lie land iiotlx'inu hii;h, (for ("iib's Hill, the highest land in JJie isl-
ands, is but little more than IHO feet alnive the Ir-vel of tiie sea) it cannot be seen at any
Sreat distance from a small vessel. Add to this the thick ha/e that freiiui i:fly prevails
here, particularly in fine weather, renders inakiii^ th.; laiwl sonrewhat dilficult, and ai
times jireearioiis, unless the latitude be accurately ascertained, for instances have hap-
jiened ol" vessels iiiissin<; the islands; and, alter a (Vuille-ss searrh, steered forii.e Ameri-
can coast, in order to take a I'resh departure for riinniii<i down the latinide r",!.':iiii.
'J'he rocks and islands of Mermiidas lie N. K. by K. and S. W. Iiy VV. about ) leagues,
and in breadth about .">. Wreck Hill forms the we.st point, and St. David's [lead the
east. Round the west, N. W. and imrth sides, if is a conliniied and very dangerous
ledge of rocks, bi'ginniii;; at the Loiii; 15ar, tie 'fh part of which lies b miles W. .S.
W. from (Jib's Hill; tendiiii,' theu N. K. it is f.J'd llie Chuii-lleads, whicli, off Wreck
Hill, lies !) mil(\s from the shore. '!'he ledge i>;'v-' rounds to V.. N. K., and joins the
North Rock, which is always above water, and lies N. N. W. 1"2 miles from Catharine
Point. From the \ortli Rock the reef rounds K. and K. S. ll., and ends in IMili's
Breaker, which dries at low water, and lies at N. K. (> miles iVoiii Catharine Point, ami
N. N. E. from St. David's Head. Tin- outer edge of the ledu'e is close and compact,
leaving no passage through it for sliijis, excepting a small one near Wreck Hill, anothei
by tlie North Kock. and one round Catharine Point. Hound the outer edge of this
ledge is a margin of soundings, of from one to two miles broad, having from ') to 11
fathoms on it. There are. likewise, soundings for two miles from the shore round the
N. E. east, and S. K. sides of the island ; bm. as the water here is deeper, it would he
prudent for those who suspect themselves near the longitude of Rermiidas in the night,
or in fhick weather, while between the latitudes of ;'.•,' ' and .'l-J^ 40', to kee|) a lead con-
stantly goiiig ; beiiii: assured tiiat at 11 lallioms they will strike the ground in time te
avoid danger. 'J'he le.id might be incased witii tallow, for the ureater ( ertainty oi
.Ntriking grout"!. 'JMiis precaution, I am persuaded, would prevent many of the wreek-i
that eonstanii; hap|jeii here.
There is a rm ky bank l\ill^ from .'^. S. W. to ,'<, \V. from Ciii's Hill, or (S. W. jiari
of Rernnidas) Irom :; to ."> league s di^tallt. ■ arious depths, from 17 to 4.j fathoms, are
on it. and '■;■ othc's large sliips have grounded.
Tho lawtude of .JQ^ 8' IN., being two iiiiles to the southward of every danger, seems
best adAptrrJ iafinc clear wc ahcrfur this purpose, and will bring you in sight of Wreck
v
riiil. which b( in
tiiarliablu. 'i'he
(iisliii :i;. !i ible, y
liiese -ia'i'ls, e'll
from till I.MMi.) a
e: '! ;.'ni-. , witlllll
vid's Head to be;
care, ilnnng that
eastvi aid.
.'^Iiiiiihl you nil
have got sight ot'
'!' or /)'; :md it il
lieyoiid .'!'J '.
Il' iioiiiid to lit
mend a direct co
becimie contrary
mainiiig loiiuilnd
latitude of ,!-J ' ,-^ ,
should fair winds
from the eastwan
to the southward
tliere is no daiige
tli.it latitude niiiil
may be apprnaciii
111 the course o
traiy, or the weal
the tKU'thward of:
the islands, yuii n
."ships bound fro
well to the soutliw
the latitude of Ca|
of;j2°5'. Tims;
ilirecfion far to tli
longitude ; and, o!
ing thence so far t
miidas, at 4 or 5 d
Vou slio.ild by
ways make them fi
to the set of the (i
slii|)s from the coa
Having aseertaii
lei uiW-iP 5', and s
4 miles clear of th
west end, about H
well as the S. W.
soiithernuiost lam
lying parallel with
keej) in .'(-J^ 7' -N.,
You must avoid,
tion the preceding
tions, and you will
of the islands) am
IJreakers the land
a mile oil", and ihat
you jiass Castle 11
lioaril hand. You
lot, who will soon i
be pressed foi time
tcr h.iviiiL; passed t
(ieorge's Koad, bri
A high island, in
eastern extreme, a
itioiit half a mile.
Ileail. is called .'^t.
vid's Head S. { VV
fiithoms water;' bui
ITMLNTS AMKRIC.W COAST PILOT.
300
Flill. \i liifli bciii;; ol' ;i coiiif fonn, iiiiil li;iviii}; a Volciiiilc ;i))|!('ai;inro, is llic more re-
iiiiirk'.ililu. 'I'Ik.- iiiniiiriit tliis liill 1)1 ciiiiii's .slittt in with llic mlirr liitids, nr is no l(iti;:<>r
(iisiiii :ii ImIiIi', you « ill p'.iss ihc din' il ii: ;i'i' lo ln' iippri'lii'iidiMl oH ilir >onllu'rti [inri ol'
lji,.v. .i;>M'l*i. cill-'l llir S. W . IJifakfis. (wliicli do not, li(i\\c\ci-. lie nioif llinii 1 ', inil>'
lioMi 111 t.'.nii.) iiiid iiiiiy tlifii iiiiiticdiiili'ly cI'jsc in «il)i ;ind slecr idoiij; tlie soi/th-cnsl-
(•: ! ,'"'•', within a mile, till yon liiivf };ot lli<; lenjilli of Castle llarlior, it 'ni)i'<;lii 1^^'-
vid's Head to Ix-ar aliont N. \>y !•".. wIiit'- von ninst wan to n c. ikc your f)ilo>, takiii.:^
(•arc, dniini; llial time, not lo lie drilK'd to leeward, ;.s tlie cuni'iils j^ei.eraily set ui ilii.
easlwaiil.
.'^Iioiild yon iiieL't with a contrary wind, or the wcatlier be extremely ha/.y, hefore yoii
have^jot .sii;hl ol'laml, it will lie prudent in iIm' ni;.'ht init to Mand to the luirtinvani ol'.'i-J"'
'I' m' .")' ; and if the wind .slnmld he inclining to the sonilnvard, 1 would recommend not
licyiiiid .'I'J .
ir liiHiiid to l>eniiiida> iVom Kn};land or iVoni any l)arr ol" Mnrope,! should leconi-
nicnd a direct course to he strtMed as lon^ as tin; winds permit : hut the nniment tliey
hecome contrary, to ^ct to the southward into the trades, and then run down the re-
maining lon;;itinle, laUiiii; care to liani to the northward in sunicien' time lo reach the
lalilnd" oi;i-J ' H', ahoiit the (iH id' Ion: ilmie, and then proceed as aliove dcserilird ; hut
should (air winds continue tlie whole passai:e. tiie land may he maih' with eipiai .-al'ety
(Voin the eastward, hy steerinj; lor them in tlie latitude ol':'.",' IH' .\., which is twd miles
to the southward of J)avid's Head, their sonth-eastern extreme, ajid olt' which liead
tlieri' is no dan<;er hevond hall' a mile, care heinj; taken tiot to come to tlie mirthward ot
ill, It latitude uniil you iiave Inoii^hi the liead to hear W. S. \V'., on which liearintf il
may he approached with safely lillwithm one mile thereof, or till you receive your pilot.
In the course of luakin;; tlie land Iroin the eastward, should the wimi hecome con-
trary, or the wiNither prove dark, ha/y and tem])estuous, come not diirin;.' the ni;;ht to
the nnrihward o( .'!'J'~ or ."I'J ' ()', in which lalituile, if you should Ik found lo ha\e itin pasi
the islands, you must proceed as liefore descvihed, in making tln'oi iVom liie westward.
Siii|)s houinl from the southern ports cd' America, w iihin the (Julf Stream, should steer
well to the southward, perhaps as much as .S. S. E., until they ii*"' witllin .'J or 4 miles of
the lalitude oft 'ape iiatieras, and then steer S. K. hy K. until they sjef into the latitude
o\' '.]-2'^ 5'. Thus you will avoid erossiuu; the ( lull' Stream where it is very hrond. and its
direction far to the eastward, and pass it where it affects your lalitude more than yoiiv
lon^itiidt^ ; and, of course, he of less conse()uence to the ship's reckoning ; and, hy steer-
iiu; thence so far to the southward as 8. E. hy E. you will fall into the latitude of 13er-
juiidas, at t or 5 decrees of lon;;itut!" to the westward.
Voii slid, lid hy no means run for tl, 'se islands unless sure of your latitude; and al-
ways make them from the S. \V. if possihle, iookii'.i; out in lime lor the land, as, owing
lo the set of the (iulf Stream, and the general tendency ofthe currents to the eastward,
ships from tin? coast of America will almost always he far ahead »d" their reekoninf;.
Ilaviujj ascertained your lalitude, and heing well to the wesuvard, pet into the paral-
lel of o'J ' 5', and steer due east. This course will iuinii V"" '" 'he island, jiassin^ about
•1 miles clear ofthe south end of Clinh-I leads, a very dangerous slioal, Ivin^ across the
west end, alioiit M rnile^ from the land, wilh not more than I',' feet on it at low water, as
well as the S. \V. IJreakers, which lie about one mile and a half S. S. W. frori! the
southerniiiost land, heiin;; the shoalost part of a led;,'e of rocks of considerable length,
Shoulrl the wind in iht
lym<; par;
icep in ;i-J" 7
ill the sh
.N., if to th
rht incline to tlie northward.
mil
iward, ill I)'-*^ 2'
Ynn must avoid, hy all means, riuming in the nielli, with;)Ut haviiis: a good observa-
tion the precedinj; day, and being pretty sure of your longiHide. l'\dlow these direc-
tions, and you will fust make Wreck Hill (which is high laiirl on the western extreme
om it to the S. K. Having ))assed the 8. W.
)f 11
le isia
nds)
ami
till
.1 II
renriiinii li
iJreakeis thi^ land lies alioiit !•',. N. E. and W. S. \\'.. haviiiif ilanyer no more than half
a mile off, and that geiierallv visible; you niav run safely along siiore at a mile
untU"
you pass Castle Harbor, which is easily kiioun by the castle on an island on the star-
l)oaril hand. Vou should bring to olVshe eastern point of this hariior, ;.nd wait for a pi-
lot, who will soon come olV. and cany you into Si. (leorge's Harbor. l>ut, should yoii
be pressed I'm lime, or the pilot nut come off, you may haul round by the breakers, af*-
tcr haviuu passed the islands, which forifi tlie south part of Castle Harbor, into St.
(ieorge's Hoad, bringing on the following marks :
s off Ca'-tle Harbor, has, at its
A high island, next to the X. E, pari ofthe small
eastern extreme, a bliilf rocky point, called St. David's Head, havi'n: breakers olT it
about half a mile. The norti
Jl
lorlhernmost land in sight after you haul round St. ])avid's
ead, is called St. Catharine's Point; bring this point to bear W. N. W.. and St. D
vid's Head S. i VV. and you will be in as good a berth as any in the road, with 7 or 8
fathoms water ; but, in Cvery part of these roads, you must be guided hy the eye where
1^
tik.
■fjffh; y.^iibfa.....\j
310
BLUiVT S AMFRICAN COAST PILOT.
to drop your iindior, rlcrir ol' Coul ;;ii)iiih' ulilili is every wlicrn rasily srcn, owiiij; tO'
thf clfiiriu'ss (it' tlic wiiHt, iitid tlic « liiU'ii" >,s ol" tlic saml, wlirrc llif inicli(iriij;<' is sale.
Ill c;ist' you liavi; hicii drivon i,i tin Miistward of tlie islands, (a situation, however,
which you arc to a. old witli the utmost rare,) you may run lor tlieiii in liiiitinii' .'VJ^ 14'
N.. « liicli will liriiii: Von to tlii'm ■') m d miles to the soiilliward of St. David's I lead, Cor
which yon may haul np Mpon maknii: the land ; lint yon are not to rnn in till yon are j'ai
eiion::li to the S. W. to tiillow the directiinis lielore i^iveii tor coinin'^ (rtnii the west-
ward, shonldytju make s.iii tor ISermudas Iromany part of the (inll'Stri'am. or without it.
(treat allowance is recoiiiMiended for lieinjf to the ciasiwanl oCyonr reckoning, and try
to (all into the parallel uC latitude a hove mentioned, in lon^ilnde 7ll ' or 71 \V.
\s the sonnilin^s do not e.\t<Mid more than a mile ai|l a hall' Iroin the land, on the
southern side of t!ie islands, a rorrecl latitude, and ,i yood lookout, to;;ether with a strict
attention to these instructions, is alisolntely necessary.
Oilier dlnrlionK in coming from tin inslwunl. — On eoniiiijj from the westward, the S.
W. points of the land ouL'lit to hear I'!. N. !•",., lielore vou come within lour leaiiiu's nf
tile land, when vim may steer direitiv tor it without d.muer. The breakers, on the south
side, always show theniseives, so that a ship may safely approach wiihin <inn-shot from
the S. W.end to the S. K., and, when j^ettiim to the eastward of the easlle, round into
St. (leorsje's. Do not s*> lartlier to the iiortliward than to keep Coojier's Island open
within St. David's I lead till you take a pilot, and the suhsi riher eiii;aiies no ship will ever
strike, if tliis he attended to. TliOMAS LKAN.
WEI^T irVDIEiS.
FroiTi the Uolc-in-tlie-Wall to the west end of IIoj; Island, or the piitraiiop of the
TIarhor of New Providcnee, tlie hearing is south and the distance L") leagues. J5nt al-
lowance in sa liiifi must he made for the current, which i;enerally sets, with considera-
hle strength, hcfween Ahaeo and the iJerry Islands. At (Ireat Kjm Island, and in its
vicinities, the cnrrt nts are very uncertain, and there much caution is necessary.
Vessels iVewi the eastward, in j,' neral. had best make the coast of Kleuthera, in a track
bptween the pai.dlels of ,>} 2^)' and 26' .'iO', not exceeding the latter, or the parallel ol
Ilaihor Island.
On leaving i'le Hird Rork, when bound for N'' , l^rovidence, it is hest to make Wat-
iand's Islaml, proei 'ding along the west side of that island, or between it and Kum Key.
for a good de|)aiiur>-. \ du iiiusr he careful oot to approach the little island called Con-
ception Island, liecau.se a loin.' and dangerous reef extend.s in a N. N. K. direction from
that i.sland, above 7 miles.
Harbor Isl ind lies in latitude 'i'>° 3]', but a rerf extend.s about three miles from its
north shore, to which a erth iniisi be given, tijere being several rocks near to the outer
edge, nearly even witli the surface i>f the water. Tin water is, however, perfectly clear,
and they may be seen /ifiri the fore-yard or bowsprit end, in time to be easily avoided.
j'he bank extends W. and W. l>y N. tq J£gg Island, 'a distance of 7,7 leagues, and a reef
extends from that island, nearly ! miles in. a N. N. W. direction. Having advanced to
the northward of the t'ow and iiull,*ilf Ilarboi Island, the course to Kgg Island, the
westernmost isle of t';- range, is \V. bv N'.and the distance, to clear the reef, H leagues.
On running aIon\; sluue, you will pas.s some rocks, called the Terno llocks ; hut the
islands are too closely connected to he particularly distinguished.
Egg 'slarii is a small islaml. covered with iiriish-wood. with a rise of land in the mid-
dle of it. i'jug oil' ills island, keep widl out to avoid the reef, the pitch of which lies
with thccemre ofi'ii isio-d 8. S. E. i K. On rounding the reef, >ou will open a small
rocky island, •'tuated to I'lC south of Kgg Island, called Little Egg Island. The
course, by compass, lii'nre to the lighthouse or Nassau l?ar, will be S. W. by S. 10
leagues, and to the T)oii Ja J^assage, eastward of tin* harbor, S. by W. ,« leagues.
The keys betweui Egg Island and I'rovidtMice, upon the edge of the bank, form a bay,
as represented mi ihi ('hart, and the rwi is steep to. Of course, vessels passing in the
winter or during the iievalenco of rrortlierly winds, must cautiously avoid being em-
bayed there; as the only .shelter is an inlet between the eastern end of Rose Island and
the Hoohy Rocks, where then is a depth throuehout, of '11 feet. I?ut in summer, as
northerly winds iheii seldom |ir< vail, and the ti;,de wind, generally, the vluire may be
kept well on board ; and especially,, because the current may sweep you past the Harbor
•f Nassau, 'vhich could not be regained v* 'thout diflieulty.
nrJNT S AMI.IIICW COAST [MI.OT.
311
, owiiij; tO'
i^c is safe.
, iKtwrvcf.
ldf:!J 14'
ll»'ii(l, lor
you iiic I'iir
witlidiit ir.
11^, and ti V
V'.
ml, on the
v\\\\ a strict
,anl. flip S.
U'auiK's f)l
II llU'SOlltl)
l-slli)I tVoill
roiiiiil into
slaiiil optMi
lip will i;vi'r
LEAN.
ance of tlic
8. Hut al-
1 coiisidera-
1, and in its
iry.
a, in a track
e parallel ol
make Wat-
liiini Key,
<allcd ("on-
ection from
»'S from its
0 the outer
fectly dear,
ily avoided,
and a reef
iilvanced to
Island, tlio
f, H leagues,
vs ; hut the
111 ihe iiiid-
which lies
pen a small
land. The
by S. lU
fiues.
form a hav.
ssiii^; in the
beiiiii eni-
Island and
summer, as
ore may he
the Harbor
Tlie town is on the north «.ide of the islarnl, sheltered on ihe north by I lo^; Tsbnid, and
Kliiiids at the wcstw.ird ol' the harbor. It may l)e distin :uisbed at a disianer, by means
(if the (i')vernnieiit Mouse, which is a larue white house upon the top of a hill, seen over
]\i)<i Island, r.rin:; tills to bear S. S. W. or S. S. W. ', W. I!y keepjn; ii <i(MUiIil wilh-
iti 'J or I! miles ol I In.; Island, or perhaps sooner, ajiilol may be obtained.
'IMie entrance into the harbor is at the western end ol' ilo;.' Island, which is di>(iii-
{,'nislied by the li^h' bouse. It has 1 -< fr'ct of water, with sandy uroiiiid. The latter is
not !:ood ioi hoidin;:. in the middle of the harlxir tiiere i.s a b.-iiik of ;! or I feet water;
but tliere is a eiianiiel on each side of considerable extent.
Tlii^ Douglas l*assa,'e ami New Anchoiii:;e, are situated on the east ami somli side of
Hose Island, to tlu' eastward of Nassau Harbor. The entrance is di'iioled by beacons
(ixed on two roc ks, called l)ou;;las' Koeks, which form the entrance, and a Idaek bn )y,
which is |)laced at the end of a reef siretehing from lliose rocks, and situate at N. by K.
,', K. 17') fathoms from the liii;h or upper beacon. These beactuis can be seen from thu
derk of a friirate, when siceiini; in a line between K'.ri: Islatifl and Nassau.
The black buoy aliove mentioned, is [ilaced in ') I'eet water; but at a boat"-; 1. ii^th
(unw if, tlieie is a depth of 1 fathoms. ( )pposite to it is the end of a reef w hich eMciids
from l>ooby Island, leavin;; a j)assa_ue of l()() fathoms in breadth, which has a tiepth of 4
fathoms at very low tides.
To steer for this anchorage briiii; the beacons in a line, bearimr nearly ."^. K. by E.,
and steer direclly for them until you briiii^ liooby Island end on : then haul up fortius
biuiv, |)assins; it oti the starl)oai(l side and to tiie eastward, at the distance of about .'JO
fathoms. When past the buoy every danifer may hft seen, and you may haul round to
the westward ami aii'lior in 1', fathoms, (rood leddin;^ f,'r<iund. with the beacons in one,
bcarini!: N. W. l)y \V. distant .ibout •_' miles, where you will be wtdl sheltered from N.
\V. winds.
A fritiate, drawiu.; !■< or 'JO feet of water, nr.iy proceed to the S. K. side »if Hose Isl-
and, and itnchor in a f|uarter less five, at about (> miles froiu the town of Nassau, well
sheltered from N. W. winds, and from the .*>. K. by the Maiik.
The direct be, iriii': from the i lole-in-ihe-\\'all lo Providence I'.ar or Li^hthousn, is
.'^. ,' \V. 1') leaiiucs. The beaririii and distance from tlie I lule-iii-the-W'all to the piteli
of Hi;;; Island Keel', are .>^. K. ■' S. -Jl) miles.
Those bound to .New Providence, wjio are unaer|iininted with tlie Douglas Passaijo
and the New Aiu'hora^e, should tH)t attempt to pass the Ilole-in-ihe- Wall with a N. \V,
wind, when blowini,' str(uii;, there beinu no sale anchmaije hereabout.
In the event of makiii'^ the llole-in-the-l\ock or K;:!; Isl;>nd in the afternoon, with a
stronn wind from the N. K... you should iiani close round Ki;i; Island lleef, and steer S.
by W. H lea-^ues, for the Douglas ileacons; and haviiij made the beacons, brint; them
ill mie, bearing: nearly S. K. by H. and steer for them. Keep your lead fioiti!;, and you
will have iiradiiai souittlinsis. When in ') fathoms you may anchor with the marks in
one, line sandy l)ottoiu, well sheltered from northerly winds by the rocks. t\:e.
At Nassau, New Providence, anil in the entrance of the New Aiuliora^e, ;ind in it.s
eh iiiiuds, the tide riuis at the rate of 41 miles, and rise 4 feet at the springs, and the cur-
rents lia\(' mtu'h force.
l-lilll 'Tlll'.ll \ is one of the Ian;est islands, and is of very irretrtilar shape. Its west
end bears N. K. -^ N.. distant aliout 1(1 leagues from the east end of ^ ew Providence;
it thence extends eastward about ') leagues, then .S. K. about 4 leagues to Palmetto
Point; ami lastly, aliont S. '; K. Iv.' leagues to its south end. denominated J^owel's Point,
being (d" irregular breadth, from 2 to 4 miles. The K. and N. E. shores are washed by
the Atlantic ( )c<'an, ^hile lui the west, is the shallow and smooth water of the bunk»
Un the west side are the si ttleinents of the Rock .*>ound.
(IlIANAllAM OK CAT I.SLANI).— The N. W. end of this island lin abimt a|
leagues, F^.i S.frcuu Powel's Point, in Kleiiihera; it thence extend^ >outb -nstwapi 15
leagues, having a breadth of :> to 7 miles. It> eastern side is lirieil liv a r»s , on wbi^
the sea continually breaks, and renders it inaccessible: on the S. W. side is wood an-
chorage. This island was the first land seen by ('olunil)iis, who lar.-iied here ou th*
]Jth of October, 14')','. Hy him it was called Sf. Salvador, but it is now commoDiy
called Cat Island. Hetween its N. \V. end aim Pewel's Point, at the distanci; of 4i
Icauues. S. E. from the latter, is the N. W. end ••( Little Cot Island, joined to Cat isl-
and liy a bank '.vhich surroiuids both of them.
Helween the south end of Eleuthera and Little Cat Island, is a cbautiel 3 leagues
wide, called Ship Channel.
YH.M A OK. LONti I.SIjAND, so called from being peculiarly narrow in proportion
to its length, is nearly 17 leagues in length from S. E. to N. W. The north-west «iid
lie" 81 leagues south from Cat Island, and its south-east end bears frotu the Bird Book,
312
BLUM S AMKUICAN COAST ril.OT.
ill
nt tlif west rnd of Cmokcd Islainl, W. by N. 8 1o:>i;up.s. There is an anclinrngfi on it«
I'asI sidi', c, tiled (iii'at llailxtr, wlit'iicc it t-kports sail.
KXr.MA, \i-. — Tlif islands <;dlt'(l (Jn-at and liilllf Kxurna. lie to tiic urslwaid of
TiUii<; Island ;.nd tn tlic soiiilnvaiil of ( 'at Island. Thi'ii' < 'liit'f |iniduL'(> is salt, and tin;
Micat isle has a port of entry.
Norili-wi'slward of Kxunia, to the distance of '2v? Ir<a2;nes. on the eastern edi^e of the
CirvM IJanU, are a ninidx-i of little islands, distin;.'ni-.|ied liy the name of Kxnina Keys;
to these succeed several others in a inori- norlherly direction, to a distance of S leagues,
the norlheniniost o|' which, called .Ship < 'liaiiiicl Key, lies K. Ity S. ] 0 lea^^iies I'rom the
east end of New I'rovidence.
IJeiwccii the hani^ wliicii snrronnds tlie Cat IsiaiiiN, and the east ed^e of tlie (Ireat
Bahain 1 Hank, is i clMiiiiel (> leaLincs wide, called lOxiuna .'^oiind. on thi- westein side of
whi( li is a Ue>, (ailed Leeward Stocking Island: and farther norlhwird. Iielween .*s|iip
C'hainicl Key and the hank tiial surroumls Kleiiihera, is IJock Sound, of ahoiit A miles
in width, at the noi'ih part of which yon suddenly find 'J fathoms water; this is denomi-
nated Ijie Twelve Fet f Channel.
WATLA.NI)'.'^ \>i\j.\ M), which lies l;{ Icngnes lo the east of I lie S. K. point of .St.
Salvador, is al)out lour and a half leairiie:^ in extent, I'roin .N. K. lo .S. W., and is of
moderate height. It has a pretiy little town on the soiilh side, and on approachins; in
that direetioii, you will see several houses on the summit of a hill, and appeariiiK nearly
in the centre of the ishind. (Jif the .S. K. point are two reniarkal)le rocks, called the
I'ijieon's llocks. On ihi' east side of the island area nnmher of sandy spots. It is one
ol' tlic most daiiiri'roii-i reefs of tlie liahamas, exlendiii,>; aliont seven miles, haviiii; seve-
ral rocks or heads which cannot he perceived hy the (Mdor of the water helore yon are
<;lose upon them, and wlii( h have .'), 4, 7, 9, nnii 10 fathoms water between lliem, and a
current settiiiL; west and W. .S. W. into Hxuma Sound. Olf the north side are the dan-
j;<^rous rocks, i aUed the White Kocks, tmd a rref extends outward four or five miles to
tlie N. \V.\ — vessels onuht, theiefore, to lie very careful in ronndiii!; them. There is a
small reef projectin;:; from the .S. W. point, hut it always shows itsell'.
Captain Powers of the navy, has stated tliat, in the route from New Providence tii
-lamaica, in IHM, wiien "passing; aloiiir the west side of Watland's Island, about otic
•■md a half mile from the sandy beach, ^vitll tlie .S. W. point bearing; .S. by W., just al
dusk we discovered a led<;e of l)r<akcis, (altoiit a ship's leni;tli east and west,) close to ik.
" Wlien about a cable's leiif^th to the westward of them, we had the I'ollowins; bearhit;';.
viz: a remarkable black rock, close to the shore, and breakers in one, E. S. E.; the N.
W. ixiint of the island cast, the S. \V. i)oint S. by E.
"We had .') fatlKuns at about two cables' len^ih to the northward, and deepened otn
water gradually as we iiK;reased our disliinc e to the wf;slward. No bottom with haml
line, about half a mile outside; the water of the same color as the ocean; at this tinin
];ind wasdistinctly seen from the mast liead bearing; S. W. and very low."
lir.Xr KEY. — No reef of any extent lies olf this island, except Pindar's Keef. This
iies off the N. W. part of the island, extending out north, about -J miles. There is m
small ree;', .ery close in, near the S. E. hariior point. '^Phe shore, in sjeneral. is bolij :
and if a tr.'lini; reef, slioals, or sunken rocks are ktiown, they are chietly on the north
«ide of the island, not frequented by any shipping, and lyins; very near the shore. The
S. W. point is a sand spit, with very bcdd water on either side of it : vessels of any sizeeaii
anchor within JilO yards, and procure fresh water from w >lls diii; near the beach.
With the exception of Pindar's Reef, vessels of any size can approach with safety, an\
part of the island, witliin a (juarter of a mile, and many i)laces, (particularly the wc.v;
end,) within 1.50 <o t'dO yards.
The west si<le of Pindar's Jteef is very bold; vessels may run a north course so ( los
^lons, as to throw a biscuit on it. Tlie east part of the island shows wliite clilfs, iiioi
northerly again, black dill's.
Tlvc vessels thai load at Old Pond, run down the south side in going to sea, round tip
\rest end. keeping lo the eastward ol Little Island ; in sight, distant l.T miles, and lo tli
westward of Watling's Islands, ;d»oiit 'JO miles from lium Key.
If the vessels returning homeward, cannot pass to the eastward of Rum Key, and :ti
•obliged to take the soiUli si.le, they should keq) close in with Rum Key, and well in win
the west end, which would allow them to pass well to windward of Little Island, ^'il
riation, 5° E.
There are settlements all round tlie island. Rum Key ha? two salt ponds; the oM
salt pond, situated on the south side of the island, neatest the east end. The anchoniu''
ia good about half a mile from the beach, and will admit vessels of any size, aflTordiii:
shelter from the .S. E., E. N. E., and round to N- W. Pilots will go out, on vessel
making the usual signals. There is always a considerable quantity of large grained sah
for .sale, and every dispatch given while loading.
rnriniehael
procuring salt
ilialely :)lf the
E. by's. No
'J')l) yards of I
westerly, vesst
after weighing
and put uii sill
CO.NCKI'l
Jliini Key and
which was not
was wrecked u
mas, liavnig se
of tlie water In
ATWOOJr
Tlie islam! is si
reel' extends oi
shore, there is
while ground,
wliite ground,
islets; the out
reefs and while
Atwoods Ke
in this passage.
extreme lerinin
miles from the
mile and a hall
from the west p
a league at lea^
brought the w»
only, and that I
two miles from i
our wind, and s
'i'liis anchoragi^
cables' length ft
broken shells, b;
Tlie CKOOK
by returning: to
taiiied ; and par
on the N. W. p;
CASTLE I.''
Island; between
when you lirst n
The position o(
l)e Alayne, in li-
be considered as
Hetween Cast
Ureal Hay, at tli
proached loo no;
Jamaica Hay, wl
To the \. E. of
EOKTl'NE
than 10 miles in
liouth end is ver
these islets, is a
settlement will b
lathoins, with th»
(liately, wlien on
several wells of
may be obtained
TheHlRD R
Crooked Island,
rection ; it then I
This reef forms
being partly foul.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
313
inigc on it«
vostwiiid (if
alt, iiiiil the
(•(!<,'»> (if till'
vuma Keys;
r H Ini-in s,
rs tVoiii llic
)!' the (liTiit
itfin side 1)1'
•iwcrn Ship
Kiut A mil).'-'
s is (InMiini-
|)()iiit ol' St.
'., -.iikI ir* ol'
iro'.ii'liiii!; in
ariii;; nearly
s, called the
s. It is (iiif>
liavint; sevc-
•|'(ire yiiii ail'
llieiii, anil a
are the daii-
fivc miles to
There is a
'rovideiice to
(1, about niic
y W.. just al
,) close to u-;.
iui!; i)ear''ni;ii.
. E.; the N.
lecpencd oiu
with hand
at this tini"
leef. This
There is ;i
•ral. is Ixilii :
)t\ the 'lorth '
liore. Thf
"any size can
)( ach.
ih safety, any
irly tlio wesi [I
urse so closi §i
ditVs, uioi'
ea, round tli
es, and to tlr
Key, and an^
(I well in with
Island. Vii-
)nd3 ; the olii
lie anehoraiie
lizc, aHonliiiS
ut, on vessels
c grained salt
rnrmicbapl Pond, a new one, is at the west end of the Island, and tlie farililies for
iiroctu'inK ''•■'i 'X'*' M"**'' < (!■*' anchorage, an open road-tead, at the west end, and iniine*
diatelv :iil the pond, in protected hy the island, with the wnid from N. hy H. round tn >S.
K. by' S. iNot far from the heach is a sii:;nal (lai;-sta(l: vessels may anchor (dVit, within
•.'.">() yards of the shore. Should the anchora'^e prove ronuh, hy the wind Ketlint; out
westerly, vessi'ls can easily weiyh anchor and run round Sandy I'oiiit. A tew mimites
after weik^hing anchor a vessel will be out to mr.x. The salt is carried aloii^ side in boats
and put on ship board.
( "( ).\( 'KI'TIO.N is a little island, s"rrouiided by a reef, and lies half-way between
j\uin Key and ('at Island, l-'rom its >i. K. side a reef extends 7 muIi-s in the N. .\. K.,
which was not known till the year 1.-<1-J, at which time the liruish IriiMte SoutliamptotJ
was wrecked upon it. 'i'liis reef is ac(Miiinted one of the most daiij^eroiis in the Kaha-
mas, havint; several danj;,'erous rocks or heads, which cannot be perceived by the color
of the water before ytui are (dosj; to them
AT WOOD'S KKV is ;J leagues from east to we.st, an<l narrow from north to south.
The island is surrounded by a white shoal, bordered with a reef. ( )lf the west end the
reef extends out one league; and under this |)oint, in the extent of another ha^iu', alcuij;
shore, there is an opening or interval in the reef; and here vesstds may anchor in the
wliite ground, in 7 or H fatiioms, but very close to the shore. Oil' the edi^e of the
white },'rounil, no soundiiif^s are to be found, 'i'o the east of the island are two small
islets; the outer one at a league and a half from ahore ; ihesu are .surrounded with
rec^fs and white shoals.
Atwood's Key is low, with bushes, and present.s the same ajipearanee as the other isles
in this passage. Its greatest breadth, whitdi is in the middle, is about ;i miles; for each
extriMue leriniiiates in a |)oiiit. The reef mi the north side breaks, and extends above '2
miles iVom the land. The same reef, continuing to the west, forms a head, which is a
mile anil a hall to the southward n( the point. "Oii the south side, aiiout two miles
from the west point, you may anchor at tliree cables' length tioin the land, and, for half
a league at least, along the shore, sheltered from westerly and .\. K. winds. Having
brought the west end N. N. \V. about one mile oil, we saw that end was a point
only, and that the other side rounded away E. N. E. full of breakers, which were at least
iwti miles from it ; we also saw some ahead ol us, and to leeward : we were obliged to haul
our wind, and stand for the anchorage afore-mentioned, on the south side of the island.
This anchorage exiends about a mile each way from whence we were, and about three
cables' length from the island. Yttu may let go your aiuhor in ** fathoms, sand ami
broken shells, luit il is noi goud holdiii!/ ground."
The (vKODKEI) ISLANDS. — Of this singular group t!ie best idea ...ay be formed
by returning to the particular plan of them. 'IMie positions appear to be well ascer-
tained ; and |)articularly of Castle Isle, or the South l\ey. I'itt's Town, a settlement
on tlie N. VV. part ot' the northern island, is the port ui entry.
CASTLE ISLAND is an islet lying off the south end of the southern Crooked
Island; between are several white rocks, one of which is very remarkable, appearing^
when you first make it, like ii while fort or castle, from whi( h the islet takes its name.
The position ol the islet, previously given, was ii^ 7' t.'i" .\. and 7 1^ 17' .'iO' W. Mr,
|)e Mayne, in IH1,3, made it -JJ- 7' ;J7 " N. and 7 I' 17' o'J" W. So that its position may
be considered as liiially determined. \'ariation. 4'^ >()' E.
Between Castle Island and Kortune Island, the land forms a great indent, named the
Great Bay, at the entrance of which lie the Kish Keys. These keys are not to be ap-
proached too near. Between Castle Island and Salina Point, is a fine sandy bay, called
Jamaica Bay, wherein ships may anchor in ') fathoms, well sheltered from S. W. winds.
To the \. E. of this bay are two wells, with excellent water, and wood may be obtained,
FORTUNE ISLAND, distin^'uished by its salt pi. i.. Is and wliarfs, is rather more
than 10 miles in length and 1 "^ in breadth, "it lies nearly N. N. E. and S. S. W. The
jiouth end is very bold. Oii its north end are two islets: and. a little to the north of
these islets, is a sandy point known by the name of I'rennh Wells. From this a small
settlement will be seen, on the lii>:h land to the northward. A vessel may anchor iu 8
fathoms, with the French Wells due east, -J miles. The anchor should be let go imme-
diately, when on the bank, only taking care to pick o.it a clear spot. At this place are
.several wells of exiiellent water, which give natut to the point: stock and wood, also,
may be obtained here,
TheBlIlD ROCK, or PAS.SAGE TSLET i- a low islet ofl" the N. W. point of
Crooked Island. A ver^v dangcrou.s reef extends two miles from it, in a N. N. W. di-
rection; it then trends in a circular direction, to the E. S. E., or towards the shore.
This reef forms the Bird's Hocks anchorage, which is rather iudilfcrent, the ground
being partly foul.
314
BIX'IVT 8 AMKIIK'AN COAST PILOT.
Snufliwnnl of fli** llird Rcick is ii »iirii!y Itay nilli'il rorllnnd llarbnr. in the mirhllf of
which, closf to (lit- ImmcIi, is ;i «(|| nl s|iilii;; walt-r. Thn lust mik .iiauc hi this |ii,i( r
iff iilf th<> /ii'st vinUy point to tlw NOiithwatil ot the !<iiiiiiy tiay, ill .iluiiit thrf(> riililc-i'
lein,'lh Iroiii the shoi»', in 7 or h l.iilionis. Von may iuuhor lis noon its yon arr on the
bank, wiilithi- itud Knck hearing nearly N. N. W., but, witlionr j;ri>at caution, the an-
chor will lie hist.
It you anchor in the sandy bay, above nit-ntioncd.ytni must be cari-ful to avoid a rocky
hi'ad, havin'i only \(< lift \< itt-r on if, aii>l whiih ln's oit' tin- cfiilrr of that bay, at about
three loinihsof tlir distanci' bcHvecn the beach and the edije ol tlie .sonndinus.
CKOOKKI) ISLAND l'A.SSA(iK is the best of all the w nidwanl iiasaajjeH for ships
to sail (hroii.:h.
The prevailing winds beini,' from tlic north (]uarter, as soon as you enter the passaje,
you will liiid MiiDoth water and plenty ol sea roinii. in the event (d" its blowiiii; strong
from the .\. N. W ., or N.. you will (iiid uood aiiehorai'e under the south end of Kor-
tune's Island, in '> or (> tathoins, about three i|iiarlers ol n mile from the xliore, with the
Point bearin:^ \. W. by .N.,aiid the sand breaker K. '. S. Just on tin- edj^e of sounding.
Tiicre is also anchorage at i!ird Uoek, but the ground is very rm Ky. Wood, water,
aiul stock can be pniciireil.
Of tlie Crooked Island I'assaiie. the Count Chaslenet de I'uysegur says, this is the long-
est of these jjassayes, but it is far the most convenient for ships eomiiii; out of the Hay ol'
Gonaivcii, or from the southern ports of ilayti.aiid for those which are boiiiul t>it)ie Ini-
teil Stales, 'riicsc coiiiiiiiitily lake llieu' ilcparluic iVoiii ('ape St. Nicholas: and beinj;
2 ltai;ues from tiie ('ape in tin; oHiim, imiisI steer N. by W. ',•;( lei!;iues, to make tlie S.
W. point of (ileal Heiieaf^ua. This course will generally lead 'J lea}i;ues to the west-
ward of the point.
When vou are oppositi! the west [loiiit of Cireat lleneamia, at 'J leatjues off, steer
N. N. W. -J ' or .i^ W. for twi-nty-live li'as;ues, wiien you will make Castle Isle, whii l\
you may approach within two miles, or nearer, witiiout fear. If you should depart from
Heneayua in the eveniiij.', it would be better to steer N. U . } N. for IT leauues, to avoid
the no-isties; then to haul U|), and make a fjood N. by W. course; when, having run
8 leagues, vou would be one league to the westward ol Castle Island.*
Should you make lleni-agiia toward noon or afternoon, it will be best to drop anchor
in the; N. \V. or (ire it Hay, and get underway at midnight, or at J in tlie morning, accorrl-
iiig to the strength of the liree/e, and steer N. W. ', N. until yoti have run sixteen or seven
teen leagues; then haul up i\. N. W. or N. by W., when tiiere will be daylight for aiiv
thing througlillie rest of ilie passai^e. Hut should then* be liuhf balding winds in ilip
nigi)t, Willi probably a weather current, keep the lead git^ng, and you will avoid the Hot;-
sties; as, in advancing towards them, there will be found soundings of oU to 3U and JO
fathoms.
From the west end of Castle Isle you steer north or N. by W. seven and a half leagues,
to make the west end of liong Key. This course and distance will lead within a league
of it. ('oiitinue in the same direction to make Hird Koek, otf the western extreme ni
Crooked Island. Having thus run six leagues, you will be one and a half league west ol
this islet; so that the direct course from Castle 1. le to the end of the passage, is N. .V
W. fourteen leagues.
When you are come to this place, you sujipose yo'irself out of the passage; never-
theless, should the wind liapp; p. to the N. K. or K. N. K., you have to fear Watl'lIl(^^
Island, which bears from JJiid Island N. 1' W., true, twenty-three leagues; therefort',
to avoid it, you ought, in leaving the passage, to keep as much to tlie eastward as tlie
wind will permit; but should the wind be nt S. K., and you steer at N. K., you would
make Atwood's Key ; so that, keeping tlie wind wlieii you are out, you must observe not
to steer higher to the eastward llian .N. E., nor more to leeward than N. by K.
DIANA REKF, so called from its having been discovered by his Majesty's pnckpi
Diana, when passing through Crooked Island Passage, in the yei.r IHO'j. It ajipeais tlini
she had been driven to leeward by a westerly current, and made Long Island; and after-
wards, when standing to the S. H., struck soundings on a shoal, which was not to he
found m any chart. On the 5th day of December, the latitude observed was 2*^0 fiG' N.,
and on the 6th it was 'J','° .'34' N. At 3 A. M, on tlie fith, they found -JO fathoms water,
and continued to sound regularly, from N. W. to S. K.,for about two mijes. the depili
;«bout I'i fathoms, (the bottom plainly to be seen, composed of sand and rocks, like tin
anchorage at Crooked Island.) then suddenly had no soundings, with 25 fathoms of liii''-
The Commodore, who stretched a quarter of a mile farther northward, had only seven
fathoms. Captain Edgecumb, of the Nassau government schooner, was once becalmed
%
* The Ilobart Breakers lie about 3 leagues to the S. W. of Casdc Island.
near it, ind row
• UppUNcd to lie
crHKKNT
in a freih bree/
you to tlie went
mind tiiem. espi
inoiiihii (il .1 iiiir
you in«y expert
w fiicli eliect on
extensive siioal-
this seu!ion it wo
two knots an ho
westward ; if y«
WINDS.— I
wliicli are consii
slroim gales iVuii
change of the n
The MIKA-1
to the west of (
They are very d:
bear in a N. U'.
When the win
h^avy swell; thi
erii side is an ind
distant, there are
ward, tliey are nt
cessary to turn,
parts break, uifl
choose, pass to ti
pioachiiig too m:
January, |hi i. ai
bore east, v' , mil<
but observed bla
"This reef a|
some distance.
the S. W. « hicii
brush. wood."
Tlie iMira-por-
11 miles, from ( '
and at three ipiar
r.il clniiiiel is hi'i
TO RA(i;ii;i
If bf)uiirl to if iVd
it, distance -15 lea
of Key X'erde, ii
The island is sin
known. I would
keep the Cuba -li
(iivari, wiiicli is ;i
draft of water, kc
they bring the lla;
into the harbor, w
storehouses on it,
will ap|)ear on yoi
a large red Cal I
come abreast of a
abreast of a coup
fathoms water, ui
Ragged Island is
middle of it, the r
on it. Vessels n
close up to which
drift. Due souti
to each other, ca!
Kiobanc or St. D
leeward of which
BLUETS AMEUlC'AiM COAST IMI.OT.
315
near it. ^ii<i rnwiit!; rontiil in liis boitt, in mm ^Am-v rmniil imly I Ifct whIit. This reef ia
•upp""'"
I to lit" aL/(MJl ') li'u^iucs N. \V. ', N. Iruin Ca-<lif 1.^1, iiij.
lie passage,
ivinj; NtroD"
■mi (tr Kor-
rr, with llip
s(iuiiiliii(!«.
'otxl, waller.
»is thf lonjj-
rth«' 15a vol'
I t.i tlie I'ni-
: and licin;;
nake tli«' S.
to the west-
I's ofT, stprr
Isle, wliidi
rjppari tVoin
iH's, to avoid
, liaviui; nin
drop atirlior
inii, nrronl-
■fll Ol'St'VP!)
iulit for aiiv
winds in ilic
tid tlie llni;-
to ;i() and •:(\
lalfleac'ips,
lin a ii'a^iif
••xtieirif 1)1
it;ui^ west dl'
i^e, is N. .y
tacp; never-
r Watinnds
tliPret'orc,
ward as llip
voii would
observe not
sty's pnckei
a|)peai's that
and alter-
;is not to be
s -i'Jo r»6' N.,
horns water,
s. the depdi
'.\i», Wkv tin-
oms of line.
1 only seven
ce becahned
critKKN'rs. — Voii Imvi: htilc oeciMjon to fearthL eurronlM in thi.4 paH^nse, which.
in a IreMh brei'/.i-, are ^c.irccly pen I'liiibli; ; bti', in laUn*' tiiul iiuht winds, they may Hel
you to llie wefitward, but slowly and so leebly that, in a passaj^e so short, you n«-ed nut (o
d theiM, especially as you nener.iils make it with a larue wind. Ne\erthidess, in the
nun
in
oiuhs ol June, July, and \ui;ust, win ii (mIuis or liuht westerly winds are eumiiKU
you iniy experience a current setting to the west, stron)i{ enough to alter your course
w lue
e\(ensi
ii eli'eet only can happen in this passai^e, and is onasioned by the proximity of the
ve shoaK, lormin^ the eliimiel id H.ih.inia and ihoseol I'roviiieni e Island. In
tlus season it would be proper, ii you ii.ive a wind suHieh-nt to iiinke yuu ^o more than
two knots an hour, lu aMow a (|uarier id a iiule an Hour i iv the lurrenl setlln^ to liie
westward ; if you nu three knotM ami upwards, this allowame will be unr.eeeMsaiy.
WINDS. — riie \. K. trade tienerallv prevails here, except lidiii October to April,
which are considered as the winter monilis: during these iMontlis yon have, sometimes,
strolls; fiales lioni the N. W. ami very variable wailii'r; j<.uticuiarly about the full and
change ol' the iiidoii whirh oii.;lit to be guarded a'.'aiiisl.
The .MlliA-l'<)K-\<>S. an assembtai;e oT barren rmd.s, witli one low sandy islet, lies
to the west of Castle Island, in JJ 7' N., o:i a slioal similar to that of the lloi:sties.
Tiiey lire very daniierous, and should be carefully avoided, particularly when the islands
bear in a N. U. dimiion.
Whentlie wind blows from the nortliwaid, lln-y bie.ik very heavy, and at all times a
h^avy swell; the current nenerally sets from tli« N. H. one mile jier hour. On the west-
ern side is an indilj'erenl anclioraue ; the east side is Ixdd, and on the S. I'., side, at a mile
distant, there are from '.'() to •_•"» |'athom-<, coral and rucUy '.'round. As these kevs are to lee •
ward, tliev are not id'len seen by vessels in ranuiii!! almii; ( 'asile Island ; however, if it is ne-
cessary to turn, VOII may approach the liank witliiti half a lea<iiie. All the dangerous
|)arts break, uid the while tiroiiiid will give you notice in J'ood time. Von may. if you
choose, pass to the westward id' ilie ^Iira-plU•-V()s. with the riecaution only, of not ap-
proaching too near. Captain William liowerswas passiim this way in an eveninn of
Jinuary, I'^l 1. and came suddenly on a reef strelehini; out from llie S. W. Key, which
bore east, „' , miles. Captain Dowers says, " We had 10 fathoms, sand, while in stays;
but observer! black rocks and less water in many placfs.
" This reef appears to run o(i' west fur ;> mdes, and then extends to the .*•. S. K. for
some distance. We ermnte | ten almve water. Tliey are ;dl barren rocks, exce|)ting
the .S. W. which is a low sandy island, about half a mile in lenjith, aid covered with
brush -wood."
The Mira-por-vos rancre nearly .N. K. and S. W. The midiile of the jjroiip hears W.
11 miles, from Castle Island. In m;tkin.j them you will train soiindim.'s in 1 I fathoms;
and at three (piariers of a mile thence m ly pa-is t^i tii." we-tuirl of (hem ; but the ijene-
ralclnnnel is lieiween th-m an I < '.isth- Island, lii'jii \vaier full and cliaiif.'e MV. 'Mm,
'VO KACiiKI) ISLAM). (ONK Oi' THK liAllAM A:i.)— Il lies in hit. -JQ^ 8' N.
If bound to it iVom the Wintlward Islands, a X. W. course from (^ape Maize, will fetch
it, distanci! 1.") leagues. Vessels bound lo I'a'.:^e(l Island should pass to the northward
of Key \'erde, in lai. -.'J iiO' N., tlienie steer W. ' N. by compass for I\ag;ged Island.
The island is siirroutrled by intiiimcrable daiitiers. whose bual positions are but little
known. 1 wfinid advise all masters of vessels hound to it. in tuiminj; up the straits, to
keep the Cuba shore on board until tliey run upas hi^h as the well noted hijih hills of
(livari, which is a Saddle I [ill; then steer as above direi'ted, ami if they exceed 8 feet
draft of water, keep the inland iiiiiler their lee, and run tlie shore close on board until
they brinsj the tlaii-statf anil houses to bear due south, then you will open the entrance
into the harbor, when you must haul in S. W.; then ahead of you, small Key, with
storehouses on it, will appear, and at your entrance into the liarbor, a low black rock
will apjiear on your starboard sid-^ : give it a berMi, and in ritnninc: in. you will observe
a large red Cal Bank on your larboard side, which yi.u may run close to until you
come abreast of a low black point of rock on the same rpiarter. and when yoti come
abreast of a couple of cannon mounted thereon, you may drop your anchor in 3 or 4
fathoms water, until a pilot boards you, unless he may have met you on the outside.
Raii<!;ed Island is distini^uishable from all other soundiii'j keys by a loflv hill about the
middle of it, the nuiulier of houses and inclosuri's. as well as he (Ins; stall" that appears
on it. V^essels runnino; far from Cape Maize or Harracoa generally make Key Verde,
close up to which, either to w indward or leeward, there is plenty water for vessels of any
drift. Due south of Razeed Isl ml, distance 4 leamies, there are three small keys close
to each other, called the Hrothers, that have fnti i -J to :'> i.nh'Mi!- water c iosi up to them.
Kiobanc or St. Domingo Key lies .S. by E. of Ragged Island, distance IJ leagues, to
leeward of which there is plenty of water; but no vessels should attempt to edge the bank
^
IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)
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Photographic
Sciences
Corporation
23 WEST MAIN STREET
WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580
(716) 872-4503
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316
BLUNT'S AMERICAN COASf f ILOT.
to windward of it until you are close tinder the lee of Key Verde, as there^ ai'e inany dart-'
gerons ledifes of rocks betwixt them, on the edge of the Straits, on whicti many vessels
have been lost.
Remarks on the action of the rhh and Jlow of tides at Bas-ged Island, hjf DvycAin
*l\vYiiOR. — From the first of January to the last of April they How from 16 to 16 inches,
and tht tide that flows an hour aft'r the rising of the moon, is uniformly 6 or 8 inches
higher ihanthe tide which (lows alii r the setting of the moon.
I have fre(|uently, durin<!; the above months, observed them not to flow more than from
6 to rj inches. The spring; tides during the above months, generally rise fromGto 10
inches higher than the common tides.
From the beginning of May to the first of October, both tides gradually flow till they
arrive at the height ol' from 10 inches to 2 feet 4 inches, and from 18 iflchcs to 3 feet
6 inches, and then continue diminishing until the month of January.
Directions for sailing front, Jamaica, through the Windward Channel and Crooked Isl-
and Passage.
*ro those who are bound from Jamaica to Europe, or any part of the north-eas*ward,
it is reconmiended, if possible, to taU«i the Crooked Island Passage in preference to any
other. Frojn Point Morant, Jamaica, you should endeavor to gain easting as soon as
possible; and by taking advantage of the wind's shifiing from N. N. E. to east, which
it generally does in the night, you will gain ground very fast ; and by working up under
Cape Dame Marie, on Ilayti, you will rtvoid a strong set to the S. \V., caused by the
trade wind.
There is found, however, at times, great difficulty in working around Cape Maize,
owing to the strong lee-current which generally prevails with a strong N. N. E. wind,
particularly in the months of January, Februaiy, March, and April, during which
months the strong northerly winds prevail. This current is found to run strongest be-
tween Cape Maize and Cape Dame Marie (or Donna Maria,) the stream occupying a
space in breadth eqnal to the distance between the contracting points, and runs at the
rate of two knots an hour, setting, during the strong N. E. winds, to the S. W. between
the N. E. end of Jamaica and the Morant Keys.
Some commnnders, after clearing the east end of Jamaica, h >ve stood over to the Cu-
ba shore, in order to round Cd\)e Maize ; Imt they, also, have found a strong lee-current,
and having little or no land-wind to assist them in working along the south side of that
land, in the months above mentioned, they have at last been obliged to bear up for the
Gulf Passage.
It is to be understood that the following directions are not intended as a standing rule
for working, at all times, arouno Cajjc Maize. In the fine season there are variable
winds, and the current is sometimes in your favor, of which every advantage should be
taken, according to circumstances.
' In sailing between Cape Maize and Cape St. Nicholas, the Montagnes de la Hotte, or
Grand Anse Mountains, (the westernmost high land of Hayti,) are often seen. They
may be descried at the distance of 30 or 40 leagues ; and by their situation and bearing,
become a good guide in working up the Windward Chr.imel.
In sailing from Port Royal to windward, and finding a strong lee-current against you,
Stand well o"^ and work in the stream of the Morant Keys, endeavoring to get to the
eastward of ho ;e keys^ as soon as possible. The Morant Keys are by no means danger-
ous, a"* they can at all fimes of the day be seen at a sufficient distance to avoid the dan-
gers that surround then; ; under the N. W. side is anchorage.
Having made the Movant Keys, stand well to the eastward, and keep working, in a
direct line, for the high land over Point Boucan, which is to the E. S. E. of Cajjc Ti-
buron ; and by not standing further to the westward than with Cape Tiburon bearing
N. E. you will avoid the stream of the current, and gain ground very fast. When you
have advanced as far to the northward as 17° 40', you will sometimes meet with a coun-
ter current, and it frcjuently happens, particularly in the night, that squalls are met with
from the southward, which are caused by the high lands of Hayti. In this case, keep
wsll to the eastward of the Isle Navaza, between it and Cape Tiburon. With frequent
flaws of wind in your favor, endeavor to get close under Cape Tiburon, and keep
working along that shore, which is very bold, to Cape Dame Marie ; and, by not stand-
ing further offshore than / or 8 miles, you find a very little current.*
In the channel between Cape Nicholas and Caf-e Maize, the current sets with great
strength, particularly on the Cuba side, where it however varies with the seasons. It
* It has however, been observed that by keeping too close in with the land about the S. W. end
of Hayti, you may be becalmed for a month.
is, theref
Cape 31a
you will \
north, yo
nerally, a
neagua, a
"In proc
of Henea
ands, pari
On pro I
to allow s
evening, s
ferred. ^
Having
is N. by y
land, with
a sandy pi
war, in 7 I
From a
and, the c
being no
SO'Slong.
When 3
mits to go
in little wi
there wou
that it hac
the Crook
land's Isla
ing to the
weatherinj
BROW
Livingston
S. S. E., I
schooner I
and that, f
can be mo
inferred fr(
The HC
reef. The
Heneagua.
sea breaks i
key, which
all round ;
key bearinj
and 20 fatli
GREAl
siderable di
tudes. In
end afl['ord !
ernmost ba
color of thf
soundings,
This isla
lies in Jat. i
side, at a si
A shoal,
end of Grea
otherwise.
M. Chas
the Windw
pear like dc
or 6 league
a fine bay w
may anchoi
such bottoti
level of the I
RLIJNt's AMERICAIV coast t'lI.OT.
317
e ai'e inany dart-'
;h many yessels
id, hy Duncan
Ifi to 18 inches,
ly 6 or 8 inches
more than from
rise I'roin Gto 10
Jly flow tin they
inches to 3 feet
:nd Crooked Isl-
north-easfward,
reference to any
isling as soon as
]. to east, which
orlving up under
., caused by the
nd Cape Maize,
N. N. E. wind,
1, during which
run strongest be-
am occupying a
, and runs at the
e S. W. between
1 over to the Cti-
■oiig lee-current,
outh side of that
) bear up for the
IS a standing rule
lere are variable
utage should be
de la Hotte, or
en seen. They
tion and bearing,
ent against you,
ing to get to the
o means danger-
;o two id the dan-
ep working, in a
E. of Cape Ti-
Tiburon bearing
\st. When you
eet with a conn-
alls are met with
n this case, keep
With frequent
)nron, and keep
id, by not stand-
t sets with great
the seasons. It
bout the S. W. end
is, therefore, necessary to work up to Cape Nicholas before you attem|lt tt» weather
Cape Maize; and l)y keeping within the line of (Jape iNicliohis and Cape Dame Marie,
you will work to windward very fast. When Cape Mai/e is brought to the westward of
north, you may venture to stand across the channel to the northward, and you will ge-
nerally, as you stand over, (iiid the wind more easterly. Fetch over to the (ircat He-
neagua, as that island should always be made if possible.
"in proceeding from olf Cape Maize fur the (Jrooked Island Passage, make the land
of Heneagua if it be possible, as short dejiartures an; best in navigating among these isl-
ands, particularly as the currents are found in various directions.
Cn proceeding ("rom Great Heneagua to Castle Island, you should leave Heneagua so as
to allow surticient time for entering the (.'rooked Island I'assage before dark, or in the
evening, so as to arrive there by daylight in the morning. The latter is generally pre-
ferred. The course from (irnat Heneagua to (Jastle Island is N. W. by N.
Having entered between (Castle Island and the Mira-))or-vos, the course to Long Key
is N. by W. ■^ W. 7 or 8 leagues. Towards the northern end of Long Key is a rise of
land, with a flag-statl'on the stimmit. In advancing towards this place, )ou will perceive
a sandy point, called the French Wells, otf which there is good anchorage for men of
war, in 7 fathoms, about two miles iVoin shore.
From abreast of Fish Keys to the Bird Hock, oil' the N. W. point of Crooked Isl-
and, the course and distance are north, 9.\ leagues. You juay run along sliore, there
being no danger but what may be seen in the day. The Bird Hock lies in lat. 22° 48'
50",1ong. 74° 10' -JS".
When you get abreast of this key, you may witii sal'cty haul up N. E. if the wind per-
mits to go clear of Watland's Island. It is very dangerous to a])proach Watland's Isle
in little wind or calms, the current setting wholly on it : as it is very rocky and sleep to,
there would be no possibility of saving the ship. Capt. Hester observes, inhis.Ionrnals,
that it had been remarked of late years, by those who have parsed both ways through
the Crooked Island Passage, that in going to the northward you can seldom clear Wat-
land's Island, after you are past Crooked Island, without beating to windward ; and go-
ing to the southward, after you are past the Mira-por- vos and the Hogsties, it is difficult
weathering or rounding Cape Maize.
BROWiN'S SHOAL. — For our knowledge of this dai-ger we are indebted to Capt.
Livingston, who has given us the following account of it : — " Brown's Shoal, 10 leagues
S. S. E., by compass, from Key Verde, was seen by Capt. William Brown, of the
schooner Union, of Plymouth, iSIass., who stated to me iliai it is of considerable extent,
and that, from the manner in which the sea broke over it, he does not supjjose there
can be more than 2 or 3 feet of water on the shoalest part. Latitude and longitude,
inferred from the position of Key Verde, 21° 'MY N. and 74° 52' W.
The HOCSTIES are three low keys, encompassed to the eastward by an extensive
reef. They lie at the distance often leagues N. by W. ',' W. from the N. W. point of
Heneagua. About them are many rocks and broken ground, and when it blows hard the
sea breaks over them all. The southernmost is the smallest, and bears from the middle
key, which is the largest, S. S. E. The smallest requires a good berth, it being shoal
all round ; but you may sail close to the largest, and anchor in 4 or 6 fathoms, with that
key bearing E. S. Ei About a mile to the westward of the Ilogsties is a depth of 18
and 20 fathoms.
GREAT HENEA(tUA. — Great Heneagua is rather low, and cannot be seen at a con-
siderable distance, in consequence of the haze wicli constantly prevails in these lati-
tudes. In making the west end there is no danger whatever. Two sandy bays at that
end afford good anchorage. From the trade wind's blowing over the island, the north-
ernmost bay is the best. Stand in, and you will perceive the line of soundings by the
color of the water, extending about half a mile from the beach. So soon as you are in
soundings, let go your anchor in G or 7 fathoms.
This island is about 15 leagues in length, and 10 miles in breadth. The body of it
lies in lat. 21^ 5' N. Fresh water may be procured in the northernmost bay, on the west
side, at a small distance from the beach.
A shoal, marked doubtful, which is exhil)itpd on some charts as lying off the S. W.
end of Great Heneagua, has been carefully sought for, and said not to exist, but we think
otherwise.
M. Chastenet de Puysegur snys, "Great Heneagua, like all the islands which bound
the Windward Passages, is very low, with small hummocks, which, at a distance, ap-
pear like detached islets. The land, in clear weather, may be seen at the distance of 5
or 6 leagues, and you need not fear coming within half a league on the western side. In
a fine bay which you leave on your starboard side when going through the passage, you
may anchor on white bottom, choosing your ground by your eye, as in many parts of
such bottom there are stooes which sometinies rise to a considerable height above the
level of the sand."
318
Blum's ajierican coast pilot.
J
There are some rockg about tlie southwest point, with a reef which stretches out to
nearly the extent of a mile. Jn the hay between this and the west point, calleti Shallow
Bay, you may ant hor dose in. The bay is siMiountled by a reef, which, however,
shows itself, although there are "2 or 3 fiitiioin-. over it. Without the reef is a white
sand, to t: distance of three (-abjes' length, and on this is the anchorage, in 7 or ti t'a-
thoms. Farther out, in a line between the two points, which lie S. S. K. and N. N. VV.
from each other, in 15 fathoms, is rocky ground. This bay is not so deep as the Great
Bay ; but, as the bank is less steep, sliips are not so liable to drive here ; neither is the
landing so easy, but there are cle.ir places in the reef. There is no water but in the
rainy season ; then it is not very c;i)od, as it lies amoiiir the mangrove bushes.
The (jRKAT BAY is sheltered (Voiu the north by the north-west point, and from the
south by the west point. Tins bay is two and a lialf Iragues wide, and one deep; and
all along the shore there is a border of sanl four cables' length wide, on which you will
have 5 fathoms, at a pistol shot from the shore, to 15'. fathoms; and at half a cable's
length from that, 45 fitlioms of w.iter. If you should be there in the i?e ison of the
norths, you m ly anchor under th(! north-wesi point, so as to be sheltered from the W.
N. VV. ; and if there wlieji tliL- sonllierlv winds nievail, yon in ly anchor under the south
point so as to be sheltered troiii the W. S. W. There are not more than four or five
l)oints of the westerly winds svhicli could hurt you ; but they are not to be feared, as
they seldom blow, and never violently. It is easy lamling all round the bay.
Having rounded the N. '\V. point, you will see a little islet to the E. N. E. and a
ledge of reefs for more than a league along the shore, and u;)wards of a mile from it.
This coast will be known by a hu'iiiiDck, (le .Mornet,) the only one on the north side,
which is lower than the south, and covered with bushes.
At the eastern part of the north side of lleiieagua is a bay, 3 leagues wide, and nearly
one deep, where you may anchor, but will be sheltered from southerly winds only. This
bay is little known. At about a mile fi Tin the S. E. point is a little islet, and around it
the bottom appears white : upon this you may anchor, at about a musket shot from the
island. The white bottom contiimes along the south part, with here and there some
reefs with breakers.
BlSflOP'.S REEF. — This is a very dangerous reef, bearing, by compass, E. S. E.
from the rock at the N. E. point of (ireat Heneagua. Capt. Livingston, who has given
us the information, says, " I saw it in September, 1816, on my passage from Jamaica to
Charleston, S. C, in the brigmtine Agnes, of Greenock, then under my command.
The sea broke very heavy on it; and, from appearances, 1 cannot suppose that there are
more than 3 to 5 feet water on the shoalest part of it. The white water showed at a
considerable distance to the eastward of the breakers, and I am disposed to think the
shoal extends fully two leagues out, from the N. E.cnd of Great Heneagua ; but 1 con-
jecture there is a j)assage between it and the island.
" I was informed by the late Francis Owen, master attendant at Port Royal, Jamaica,
that the Statira frigate was lost upon this shoal , and Mr. Owen mentioned that it had
been seen many years ago by Mr. Bishop. The variation here is only about one quar-
ter of a point easterly, but it increases near St. Domingo."
In his notice of a rock, supposed to be this, Mr. Bishop says, when it bore N. W. i
W., distant about 2 leagues, they saw the ground under them, having no more than 3^
fathoms water : therefore hauled up S. S. E. and kept the lead going till they had froni
3^ to 4, 4', 8. 10 fathoms, and then no ground.
LITTLE HENEAtlUA.— This island, which lies to tlie northward of the N.E. point
of Great Heneagua, is low and uneven, excejn a little mount or hummock, which is at an
equal distance from the N. E. and S. W. points ; not far from the shore, almost round
the island, it is sandy, except at the S. E. point, where a ledge of rocks stretches off
and breaks, nearly one tnile and a half. On the south sale there is a white bottom, bor-
dered with a reef, at the foot of which is a depth of 40 fathoms. This island is divided
from Great Heneagua by a deep channel, a league and a half in breadth
CUIDADO REEF. — The shoal thus named lies to the northward of the eastern
side of Little Heneagua, bearing N. i E., by compass, b leagues from the body of that
island. S. S. E. \ E. lO.i leagues from the'S. W. point of Mogane, and N. W. by W,
.J W 10 leagues from the West Cayco, is a very dangerous rc?f of sunken rocks, called
by the Spaniards the Cuidado Reef. The body of it lies in about 21° 53' N., and 72°
65' W. This reef was seen in passing, by Mi. De Mayne, in tlie Landrail, surveying
cutter, 1816, and is particularly to be noticed as lying in a direct line between Little He-
neagua and the east end of Mayaguana, and oidy a few miles to the west of a line between
the West Cayco and the S. W. point of Mayagvuina, being nearly in mid-channel be-
tween each.
MAYAGUANA is an island, 8 leagues in length, between the parallels of 22° 18' and
22° 30' N. It is surrounded by a reef, which runs above a league and a half to the
eastward.
water. N
with a sm;'
water, oa '
go tlirougl
From til
bays, the
bles' lengt
distant 7 ii
you might
\V. point,
the S. S.
and on wh
clines to th
and having
inland, are
east pctint.
Caycos Pf
the FR
scribed by
little know
which appt
the largest
N. E. poin
stood for tl
largest, ab(
N.^V. 2 in
" This is
The east a
about three
by digging \
people. wh(
four casks (
prising, thii
and almost
which dive
some bush
east and we
them, made
small craft.'
Onl
This pass
1. For si
Heneagua,
to Castle Is
the Planasc
2. For th
the West C
of Mayagua
3. When
near, they r
Island.
It is there
and also wit
Crooked Isl
Islands and
Castle Fslan
are in lat. 2."
leagues, and
* Captain I\
quarters fartht
He has ,1 imd
spring. well on
BLUNT's AiMERlCAN COAST PILOT.
319
Jtches out to
ailed Siiiillow
icli, however,
eC is a white
in 7 or 8 lu-
uid N. N. W.
) i\s the Great
neither is the
er but in the
les.
and from the
ne deep; and
hich you will
li;ilf a cable's
>-c ison of the
from the W.
ler tlie south
an four or live
be feared, as
ly.
. N. E. and a
I mile from it.
he north side,
de, and nearly
[is only. Tliis
and around it
shot from the
nd there some
lass, E. S. E.
who has given
jm .lamafca to
ny command,
that there are
r showed at a
to think the
la ; but I con-
oval, Jamaica,
e'd that it h;td
out one quar-
bore N. W. \
more than 3^
they had from
the N.E. point
wiiich is at an
almost round
stretches off
' bottom, bor-
and is divided
)f the eastern
body of that
N. W. by W.
rocks, called
3' N., and 72^
ail, surveying
;en Little lle-
a line between
id-channel be-
of 22° 18' and
a half to the
'^
eastward. On the eastern part of this reef are several keys, and 5 or f> huijc rocks above
water. Near the iiortiifrnniDst jioiiit uf it is an islet, tliret! (|\iarfeis of a mile long,
with asmall key to tin- .'^. W. of it. The rest of the reef is bordered with rocks under
w.iier, oa whith the sea breaks. On the soutli side is a passage for small vessels, to
go through, and be sheltered by Mayaguatia on one side, and the reef on the other.*
From the S. \V. to tlie N. \V. poiiu ot Mavaguana, the coast is dear, and forma two
bays, the Dottoms of which are of v. hite sand, wiicr;^ you may anchor at about two ca-
bles' lentrth tVom the land, 'i'he two points lie N. N. K. and S. .S. W. from each other,
distant 7 miles. It is very necessary to be ac(|uainte(l with these anchoring places, as
von might be caught here with a north ; then it would be better to anchor under the N.
\V. point, where you would be sheltered from the N. N. W., N. E., E. .S. E., and as far as
the S. S. W., and that by the island and reefs, which run a long league to the N. W.,
and on which the sea breaks with great violence. From the N. W. point the coast in-
clines to the E. and E. .S. E. forming a kind of bay, bordered by reef. 3 miles tiom land,
and liaving some passages for very small vessels. At the east point of this bay, a little
inland, are two little hillocks; tlien the coast trends E. S. E. full live leagues to the
east point, which we have already described. Mayaguana and Caycos Islands form the
Caycos Passage.
The FRENCH KEYS, between Maya<:uana and the (rooked Islands, have been de-
scribed by tlie pilot of the Eagle, a French bark, as follows : " These keys, hitherto but
little known, have been said to be three ; hut what proiiably gave rise to that, was a rock
which appeared out of water as high as a boat. It is about half a mile to the N. E. of
the largest island, among the reefs and banks cast from which, 4 miles distant from the
N. E. point, lies a dangerous rock, even with the water's edge," says the pilot, "we
stood for the French Islands, and anchored in the white water on the west side of the
largest, about two cables' length from it, sheltered by a reef, which runs to the N. atid
N. W. 2 miles.
"This island is no more than 3 miles north and south, and half as nuicheast and west.
The east and north sides are surrounded by reefs which break. The anchorage is
about three quarters of a mile from the south point, near which is a landing place ; and
by digging two or three feet in the sand, you will get aood fresh water. Some English
people, who were wrecked here, had made a pond, which dried up on the Eagle's filling
four casks out of it, but in a quarter of an hour it was as fnll as ever. It is very sur-
prising, that at about ten paces from it there is a salt water pond. This island is low
and almost even, though when you are at a distance there app.'ar some small risings,
which diversify a little its appearance. The ground is nothing but sand or rock, with
some bushes upon it, tit only for firing. The other island, which is the smallest, lies
east and west, about two miles to the eastward of the first; but the passage between
them, made very narrow by the reefs on both sides, is not a mile wide, and is fit only for
small craft." —
On Majjaguana ana _ :oo(Ps Key Passage ; translated from the French.
This passa ,e may be very useful and convenient :
1. For ships intended for Crooked Island J*assage, and meeting, after they are past
Heneagua, with the wind at north, N. N. W. or N. \V. ; then, not being able to saii up
to Castle Island, tViey are obliged to sail to the southward of these islands, going along
the Planasor FrenCii Keys, and between Mayaguana and Atwood's Key.
2. For those intending to go through the Caycos Passage, who, when advanced to
the West Caycos, if the wind is at N. N. E., would be obliged to sail to the southward
of Mayaguana, and to pass between this island and Atwood's Key.
3. When they are about , assiug between the two islands, if the N. N. E. wind is too
near, they may advance westward, and sail between Atwood's Key and the Crooked
Island.
It is therefore of great importance that you should be acquainted with the dangers,
and also with the places where you may anchor about these islands. If, in going for
Crooked Island Passage, the wind obliges you to pass to the southward of the Crooked
Islands and the French Keys, it is usual to sail inid-chaimel, between the Hogsties and
Castle Island, from which tiiey are distant 11 leagues, and tluin make the Planas, which
are in lat. 23° 43,' or thereabout. They bear N. by E. from the Hogsties, about 20
leagues, and lie 5 leagues to the eastward of the N. E. point of Crooked Islands. You
* Captain M'Gowan was lately cast away on MayaKuana Reef. He says it lies a mile and three
quarters farther out than the charts shows. I previously considered that it did, a mile and a half.
He has ,1 understand, determined the position of some points in the Passage Islands, and found a
spring. well on Heneagua j a nii-tter of much importance under a tropical sun.
320
DLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
nmy safely pass tlicm and tlie latter, keeping iiiid-channei, or rather over to the French
Keys ; for iu case oC necessity you may anchor on the west side of the largest of them.
Passage between Crooked Islands and Atwood's Key.
Those who are oMigerl to pass to the westward of the French Keys, n.ay go between
Crooked Island and At wood's Key, which is a very good jiassage, 5 leagues wide. After
having the French Keys about a league to the eastward of you, make your course N.
N. E. a little eastwardly, 10 leagues; you will then j^'et sij^ht of the east point of At-
wood's Key, which you must not approach nearer than 4 or f) Jiiilcs ; but liaving brought
it S. VV. (Voni you, '2 or .'J leagues, there is nothing to he feared.
It is necessary to observe tliat the Norths in tliis passage are very dangerous winds,
and may throw you upon the reefs, which border all the banks on the east .iide of the
Crooked inlands: this happened to the French man of war, the Orox, 17.36, which was
very near being wrecked, and was obli^ "1 to anchor close to them in foul ground.
Being in sight of the Krench Keys, y(ui 'tiay also, according to circumstances, pass to
the southward of them, giving them a berth of 4 or (i miles: and, having cleared them,
stand away to tlie northward, to sail between Atwood's Key and Mayaguana, which is a
fnie clear passage.
The CAVCU.S. — The Caycos are an assemblage of several islands and islets, which
inclose a white bank, souie [)arts of which are very shallow, and others tolerably deep.
There are four |)rincipal islands, vi/,., the (irand Cayco, the North Cayco,the Nortli-west
or Providence Cayco, and the Little or West Cayco : these form a semi-circle from the
east to the west, round by the north, and are terminated on the south part by a great
bank, on wliioli there are from .3 to 15 feet of water.
The northern part of these islands is bordered with a white shoal, on which is a reef,
extending half a league from the shore ; at the N. E. part the white shoal extends out-
ward a whole league ; and, at its extremity, is a reef called Basse St. Philippe, or St.
Phihp's Beef, on which the sea breaks with violence. At a cable's length to the north
and the east of this shoal, you will not liave less than 7 fathoms. South of it the white
bottom extends to tlie south, and approaches imperceptibly towards the shore; you find
4 or b fathoms between it and the shore, which in an urgent case leaves a sure passage.
From the south point of the Little Cayco, a chain of breakers extends to the east .hree
leagues, after which they decrease, trending southward, to join a sandy islet called Frencli
Key. This is low, with some bushes ou it, and bears from the south point of Little
Cayco nearly E. S. E. live leagues. Tlie reef from the French Key stretches to the south
seven and a half leagues, to join another sandy islet, which lias not more than JO paces
extent, and is entirely drowned at high water ; all this part of the reef is bold, and, as the
water breaks pretty strongly upon it, you readily see it ; but, south of the sandy islet,
there are no breakers, and you cannot have notice of the edge of the bank, but by the
whiteness of the water.
From this sandy islet the bank sweeps a short league to the south, then to the S. E.
six leagues, whence it trenches to the east five and a half leagues, and N. N. W. two
and a half leagues to abreast of the southern islets, which are situated more than a
league within the white water.
From the sandy islets, as far as abreast of the southern ones, the bank is very danger-
ous; you cpnnot see any land, and come suddenly from a sea without bottom into 2 or 3
fathoms. The color of the water is the only thing that can warn you of the daftger;
and this is by no means certain, for navigators, accustomed to see on the surface of the
water the shadow of clouds, which sometimes has the appearance of shoals, are often
lulled into a fatal security. No motive then ought to induce you to approach this part
of the bank, yud you will do right to keep at a good distance.
If, after having been turned to windward several days in this neighborhood, you have
not seen the huid, the safest way is never to cross the latitude 21° in the night, but to
wait for daylight ; then, should you perceive any change in the water, which indicates
white grounds, without seeing eitluir land or breakers, you may be sure you are on the
westerti side; when you may steer N. W. | W. to fetcli the Little Cayco, and go through
the passage to leeward of these islands.
Should you see the southern islets bearing about north or N. W. you mav stand on
upon the white water, in from 7 to 12 fathonis ; then make a tack or two to get to wind-
ward, and go through the Turk's Island Passage, which is to windward of the Caycos.
So soon as you see the southern islets, the bank is no longer dangerous, and you may
go on it as far as one or one and a hah league : south and S. W. of these islands you
will not have less than 7 fathoms, and generally from 9 to 11.
The channel between the Caycos and Turk's Islands is six leagues ac ross in the nar-
'3
row?:U part
league of tli
passi\ge you
within OIK'
Vou will
Cayco, wliii
point there i
Tlie best
Island of Pi
the reefs tha
you anchor
ing-place of
along tho re
Three Marii
within the re
use of your
you are onct
farther in, by
or two miles
At the N.
this coast in
White Shoal
W. then you
for the turnii
from the coai
sandy islet, a
From this
join the north
The Little
is of a middlii
to the edge o
you may and
Of the Cay
bound iVom ^
of Turk's lsl;i
make out the
dark the nigh
leagues, and t
the Caycos R
more distance
By steering t
dragged by a
the Cayco
Cape [laytien
E. You will
all the white s
This custom (
innking the lai
In leaving t
leagues you w
your wind, fir:
to the north c
when you ma}
10 or 12 leagu
If, when yo
to steer N. by
getting sight c
S.E.3or41er
the breakers o
If, when yoi
will not suffer
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT,
321
I the French
it of them.
y go between
9 wide. After
nr course N.
point of At-
iving brought
erous winds,
It side of the
(), which was
round.
ances, pass to
cleared them,
la, which is a
islets, which
lerably deep,
le North-west
ircle from the
ut by a great
hich is a reef,
I extends out-
lihppe, or St.
I to the north
)f it the white
lore ; you find
sure pass;>ge.
the east .hree
called Frencli
oint of Little
to the south
lan JO paces
, and, as the
sandy islet,
but by the
to the S. E.
N. W. two
more than a
very danger-
)m into 2 or 3
the daBger;
surface of the
als, are often
)ach this part
od, you have
night, but to
lich indicates
u are on the
d go through
lav stand on
get to wind-
the Caycos.
and you may
islands you
ss in the nar-
I
1
row?it pnrt : it is a "odd passage, and without any dana;er ;* you may come within half a
lea<nie of the Caycos, and on tlie eastern side of the islets without fear. Through thia
passage you may turn with great safety, and will not feel the current, if you do not come
witliin one and a half league of the shore.
Vou will find an anciiorage oti the white shoals, near the south i)oiqt of the Great
Cayeo, which may .shelter ships that do not draw more than 15 or 16 feet ; west of this
point there is a fresh water lagoon.
The best anchorage for small vessels is to the west of the North Cayco, near the small
Island of Pines, in the"^iiijet which that island makes with Providence Island. Withia
the reel's that border that part of the coast, lies L'Anse a I'Eau, (Watering Hay) where
vou anchor in '■> (athoms, upon a white bottom: there is good water, and it is tho water-
ing-place of tlie rrijri((iiii:i<:rs. You will discover the entrance of tho bay, by coasting
along tho reef, from the rounding in of the coast, alter passing the west point of the
Tiiree Maries and Booby Hocks. When you perceive a great extent of white water
within the reef, you must send your boat to (iiid the channel, and moor her in it, making
use of your lead : and, if you want to get in, be not afraid of coming near the reef. When
you are once within the reef, you may let go your anchor in 3 fathoms : you may go
farther in, by towing or turning with caution ; the entrance is not more than half gi league
or two miles from tlie shore.
At the N. W- point of Providence Key, the reef tcrriiinatos. There is anchorage off
this coast in 8 or 10 fathoms, but you must range the shore pretty close to be on the
White .Shoals, bringins; a steep hummoek, seen a quari-cr of a league inland, to bear S.
W. then you will see the shoal recede a little from the shore, and afford a large space
for the turning of the ship. Four miles south of the N. W. point, a reef commences
from the coast, rqnning JS, W- westerly '2{ leagues : this reef is terminatpd by a small
sandy islet, almost under water.
From this sandy islet the reef runs in to the eastward, and afterwards trenches out to
join the north part, off the Little Cayco, which is surrounded with white shoals.
The Little Cayco bears S. \V. by S. from the N. W. point of Providence Cayco, which
is of a middling height, and of a white color; you may raijge alone the N. W. part, close
to the edge of the white grounds; the west jiart is very bpid to the south point, vhere
you may anchor in from 5 to 7 thoms on the white bottom.
Of the Caycos and Mayaguana Passages, Captain Livingston has said, "For vessels
bound from North America to .lamaica, 1 consider the Caycos Passage preferable to that
of Turk's islands, which has been commonly used ; because, if you can only distinctly
make out the N. W. point of the Caycos. and bring it to bear E. or E. by N. however
dark the nig|it may be, you may run sat'ely, steering at first S. W. \ W- by compass, 5
leagues, and then S. by W. till daylight; by which courses you run no risk, either from
the Caycos Reefs or the Heneagua ; and, however last your vessel may sail, you have
more distance than you can run in one night before you can make Hayli or St. Domingo,
By steering this course, or rather these courses, you also avoid all djanger of bping
dragged by a lee current down upon the coast of Cuba."
The Caycos Passage is also recommended as the best p,issage for ships bound ftom
Cape Haytien, formerly Cape Francois, when the winds are not steady from the E. S,
E. You will always go with a large wind, which is of great advantage ; and will ayoid
all the white grounds to the S. E. of the Caycos, which it has been customary to Qiaket
This custom of coming to the white grounds is very (langerous; but therp is po fisl^ IR
making the land some leagues to leeward of the Little Cayco.
In leaving the Cape, you must steer a N. by W. course ; and after having thus run 36
leagues you will find yourself -2?, leagues S. W. of the Little Cayco ; then yoji may haul
your wind, first as high as north only, on account of the reefs of Sandy Key, which lie
to the north of the Little Cayco; after which you may steer N. by E. 5 or 6 leagues,
when you may haul up N. E. or continue to steer north without any feap. Haying ruq
10 or 12 leagues on this course, you will be out of the Passage.
If, when you are two leagues .S. W. of the LiiMe Cayco, the winds do not permit you
to steer N. by E. or to make a'good north course, after having run 1.3 leagues, without
getting sight of Mayaguana, the best way, if night comes on, is fp tack and stand to the
S. E. .3 or 4 leagues ; then tack again to the north, and you will weather, by 3 or 4 leagues,
the breakers off the east point of Mayaguana.
If, when you are to the S. W. of the Little Cayco, two or three leagues, and tlie wind
will not suffer you to lay north, you must not attempt to go to windward of Mayfignana,
* A shoal called the Swimmer Bank, lies on the western side, as shown on the Chart. This
shoal was discovered some years since, by Mr. Coo|)er, master of the vessel Speedwell, and bears
from Grand Key, S. W. by W. six and a half leagues. It is dangerous, an^ should not be aiK
proacbed without great caution.
41
323
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
>i
but must fetch the channel between it iind the French Keys. Vou steer for it N. \V.
\ N. Having run 1. leiiujiies, you will come in sight of the 8. W. point of Miiyaguana,
which ought to I)p n')nh of you, two leagues distant; you <io not run any risk in ap-
preaching this point, which is safe. A sniaii w'lite shoal extends from it, with three fa-
thoms water on it, almost close to tlie shore.*
When you have doul)lcd tlu' west end of Mayaguana, so as to bring it to bear east, you
may, if tlie wind permits, steiir N. In thai case jou will |)as9 4 or.*) leagues to the wind-
ward of Atwood's Key; but, if your course is not better than N. by W. after having run
on \2 or L'5 leagues, and the nigiit comes on befoie you can see that island, tack and
stand on for .'> or (> leagutss. Then, if you can make good a N. by W. course on the other
tack, you will wer.tJu'r the eastern bnakers of Atwood's Key, at about ,'i leagues, .should
you be 2 leagues from the west point of iMayaguana, and the wind will pLrmit you to
make a course only N. N. W. after having run thus b leagues, you will see the French
Keys, bearing nearly W. N. W. 2 leagues. You may pass to windward or to leewarc!
of them, as the wind may admit. M'lien you are ',' leagues N. N. VV. or N. W. by N,
from thcni, upon running in that direction, I'i or Hi leagues, you will be out of the |)ass-
age. You must not go in the least to the northward of this (course, as the breakers ofl'
the west point of Atwood's Key bear nearly N. N. \V. from the westernmost of the French
Keys.
The French Keys are very low ; they bear from the S. W. j'.dnt of Mayaguana N. W,
f N. 8 leagues. You may go pretty close on the east, north and south sides : the white
bottom wliich encloses them, being prstty steep. On the N. W. of the U>rge island, the
reef running out some little way, it is necessary to give it a good berth. You may an-
chor in the S. W. part on the white liot^om, hut very close to the shore. There is a
small lagoon of fresh water, supplied euMrely by the rain. The isles have been previously
described.
On leaving Cape Ilaytien, you will generally find the wind at &. E. or E. S. E. and near
the shore the current runs to windward: these are two powerful inducements to engage
you to steer N. E. or N. N. E. for the Turk's Island Passage: but, at about 10 or Jl
o'clock, the wind generally chops round to the E. N. E. or N. E. Being then 5 or 6
leagues from tlie coast, and the current no longer felt, you would necessarily make the
white grounds to the soiuhward of the Caycos. This circumstance has caused m?ny
shipwrecks, merely from the eagerness of going 20 leagues to windward, in a voyage of
perhaps 1500 leagues. Under these circumstances, 1 would advise mariners from the
Cape to steer at once for the Little Cayco-
Additional Remarks on the Coasts, Isles, SfV, u-hich forvi. the Windward Passages ; ly
several French and English JSavigators.
CAYCOS PASSAGE, &c. by Capt. Hester — After having cleared the east end of
Jamaica, says the Captain, I would endeavor to get to the eastward as fast as possible,
taking every advantage of wind. In so doing, when advanced to Cape Nicholas, I would
prefer the beating up as high as the island of Tortue, (or Tortuga, or Turtle Island) and
take my departure for the Caycos Passage, thinking it less tedious and difficult than the
passage by Crooked Island.
From the Mole to the west end of Tortue, in latitude 20''-^ 5' 20", the course is N. E.
by E. about eleven leagues. Jt is all a bold clear shore, giving it 2 or 3 miles berth.—
The N. E. part is foul 3 or 4 lu'les. but from that part down to the west end it is bold;
and the west end is as steep as a house-side. When the high hill, which is seen over
Port Paix, bears S. W. by S. then the east end of the island is between you and it.
From off the middle of the Island Tonue, to go between Heneagua and the Caycos,
take your departure in the evening, steering north by compass, taking care not (o run
more than 18 leagues at the most before dnylight, witli the distance off from it included,
at taking your departure; when, if you see nothing of the east end of Great Heneagua,
continue your course for 7 or 8 leagues, and you will not fail of seeing the Little Caycos,
or Little Heneagua.
You may borrow near to the Caycoy, and haul your wind to N. E. which will clear
you of Mayaguana, and its reef, the outer point of which lies in latitude 22° 20', then you
are in the open ocean, clear of every thing.
If you find a leeward current, or a scant wind, between Heneagua, and the West Cay-
co, so that you cannot weather Mayaguana and its reef, you nay bear up and sail under
the lee or west end of Mayaguana, there being no danger but what you may see, to sail
between Mayaguana and the French Keys, which is a wide and fair channel. Then you
•The Cuidado Reef, which lies to the westward of Caycos Passage, h i been previously noticed
It lies in a direct line between Little Henet'^ua and 'he east end of Mayaguana.
haul your w
going fiiroi
trouble, am
war, it woiii
only becaus
also becaust
narrow cliai
not oli'er to
from the no
The LittI
leng'h. Yc
close to the
is a bank of
are 2 and 3 I
The lengi
smooth watt
and coining
border is off
seen ; there
200 paces fn
a bad grount
brackish wat
be cast away
By good o
may run alor
and no reef,
This elbow is
the breakers.
Although
fathoms with
place to ancli
in 8 fathoms,
prudent, how
precaution wi
continue, yoi
Ihe north
and stretching
between. It
W. Point ofl
the western p
point of the is
not,) the only
On the wes
tily from the
pa t. Many s
fter their run
ward for the P
league, you si
reef which str
To the soul
to the Bank,
and within it 2
Froiv Sand,
on which you
of the Great C
It has happ
Little Heneaj
far enough to
course good J
banks, which i
em edge of th
distance; thet
French Key ;
Bf.lNT's AMEIUCAN COAST PILOT.
323
'r for it N. W.
of Mayaguana,
^ny risk in ap- ii
;, with three (a-
) bear east, you
IPS to the wind-
fter having run
siand, tacit and
rse on the other
agues. Should
1 j)i.rmit you to
see the French
rd or to leeward
>r N. W. by N.
out of the pass-
the breakers ofl'
St of tlie French
lyaguana N. W.
sides : the wliite
h'rge island, tiie
You may ;;n-
)re. There is a
been previously
i. S.E.and near
ments to engage
t about 10 or 11
eing then 5 or 6
ssarily make the
las caused m?ny
J, in a voyage of
ariners from the
•d Passages; ly
the east end of
fast as possible,
icholas, I would
urtle Island) and
diHicuh than the
course is N. E.
3 miles berth,—
t end it is bold;
ich is seen over
you and it.
and the Caycos,
care not to run
from it included,
reat Heneagua,
e Little Caycos,
which will clear
'^° 20', then you
1 the West Cay-
p and sail under
may see, to sail
mel. Then you
previously noticed
haul your wind to windward of Atwood's Key, which lies in latitude o{ 23° 11'. In
going tiuougli either of these passages, there is a greater advaniiige gained, with less
trouble, and sooner, than by (Jrooked Island I'assage. Though I think that, in time of
war, it would be very tedious and difficult to attempt aay of them with a convoy : not
only because you art I'ldlibly exposed to be aniioycd by crui/.crs and privateeri, but
also because of the alinn impossiijility of keeping a number of vessels together in these
narrow channels. As for Uie Turk's Island Passage, Wi sailing to the nonliward, 1 would
notolierto mention it, looking ui)on it to be botii tedioita .md ha/anlous : but in coming
from the northward, ic is, in my opinion, a very easy, ^afe and expeditious passage.
Ctu/cos, SfV, Iran slated from the French.
The Little Caycc extends N. N. E. and S. S. VV, about 7 miles, being its whole
leng'h. Vou may anchor all along the western side, there being 4 or 5 t'athoms water
close to the land ; but it is a hard bottom, ami too near the shore. At the N. E. point
is a bank of rocks, extending to the X. L. near a mile, on w.hich the sea breaks ; thera
are 2 and 3 fathoms close to it.
The length of the Little Cayco has been lueasured in a boat in a fresh breeze, and
smootii water; the log hove fre(|renlly, and there was not any dilference in the going
and coming back, therefore it is probably very ex;u't. This island is of low land, whose
border is of sharp stones, which resound like a bell : it is the worst ground which can be
seen; there are neither salt-jiits, savannahs, nor fresh water. On the north side, about
200 paces from the shore, thiM'e grow in the sand *i few Lataniers, which always denote
a bad ground : the inland parts are covered with b-ishes. There are some ponds with
brackish water; and, as rain is not uiicomnuin here, people who have the misfortune to
be cast away on this isle, may obtain frc^h water.
By good observations, the iati' 'e of the S. W. point is 21° Sfi', longitude 72° 2G' ; you
may run along the south sid.v very close to it, upon the White Bank, in 5 or 6 fathoms,
and no reef. When that point bears north, you have a full view of all the Caycos Bank.
This elbow is a shelter against the north, for there are 5 or 6 fathoms of water close to
the breakers, which are very nea.- the land.
Although the west side o'the Little Cayco is quite clear of rocks, and there are 6 or 7
fathoms within musket shot of the shore, so that you may anchor there, yet the best
place to anchor (and which is most known) is under the \. W. [joint, rather within it,
in 8 fathoms, sandy bottom : there you are sheltered from the easterly bree/es. It ia
prudent, however, to have another anchor 8. by W. in 11 fathoms, cle.ir ground: this
precaution will secure you against a sudden westerly wind ; Lnd by that, in case it should
continue, you get easier under weigh.
The north side of the Little Cayco iscovced by a reef, beginning off the N. W. point
and stretching as far as the (Jreat Caycu. This reef is the only difficulty in the passage
between. It is nearly 4 league.? from the N. W. point of the Little C;.yco to the N.
W. Point of the Great Cayco, and the reef extends along that space ; that is, as far as
the western point of the Great Cayco, which i.s about 2,'^ iniles distant from the N. W.
point of the island. To the southward of the last point is Canoe Cove, (L'.\nse au Ca-
not,) the only good anchorage in this western part, of which we shall speak hereafter.
On the west side of the reef there is a little key, called Sand Key, bearing north-west-
erly from the east part of the Little Cayco. It is very low, and has a reef on its north
pa t. Many ships have been lost on it, i)y its not having been laid down in the charts; for,
fter their running along the west side of the West Cayco, they have hauled to the east-
ward for the Providen e Cayco ; whereas, when you have run along the former about a
league, you should make a N. by W. course, to give a berth to the Little Key, and the
reef which stretches to the northward of it.
To the southward of the islet, between that and the reef, is a passage of about \\ mile,
to the Bank. Without the islets are 10, 8, and 6 fathoms ; in the middle 4 fathoms,
and within it 3; but then you immediately tome into 2 fathoms.
Froi^ Sandy Key, the reef runs N. i\. E. 2 leagues, being bordered with Whitewater,
on which you have 10 fathoms, within musket shot of the reef that joins the N. W. part
of the Great Cayco, a little to the southward of (.'anoe Cove.
It has happened that ships intending to go through the Caycos Passage, have made
Little Heneagua, either by inattention or from the currents. To make sure of being
far enough to the windward, when bound from Cape Ilaytien, you should make your
course good N. or N. by E. 25 or 26 leagues, and you will see the white water on the
bank.s, which you may run along at the distance of a league without fear. On the west-
ern edge of the bank is the islet called Sandy Key, which you may approach within that
distance; then make a N. W. course, and, four leagues from Sandy Key, you will see
Freach Key ; when the latter is north from you, thence steer W. by N. 6J leagues,
324
BLUNT .S AMKUICA.N COAST PIF-OT.
^liich will brin!» you Hoiith fiotn tlie Ijitlle Cnyco ; iiiid being pust this, you are lo mnkf!
a N. or N. liy K. coiusf, ;is hctDir (lirccicfl.
According to the survey, made wilii ureiit care, tlie wliitr bank and tlie reef" continue
between the French Key nod the [jitlle Cayeo. You may run aloni; them very near, in
10 .athoms, and you will see ihe o|)c nine's in the reef, thronujli wlii<h small vessels go in
tipon the bank.
'I'he reel which borders the VVlnie Hank, iVoiU the liitlli- Cayco td I'rctirh Key, be-
gins one Icnmie east Iroiu the former, and it always breaks. V(Ui may .stand very ne.n
If cominf^ from sea ; but if you are upon the bank, you must take great care, for half n
mile within, you will find biu '.] fathoms water; and in getting neiuer, it shoalens very
quickly. Hero is a great deal i.)l swell, it being open to the bree/e.s. The bottom is
land a.id good holding ground.
Particular Observations on Ihr Litllf Caycn, S^v., from the Journal of the Emerald,
"Bfling at noon, with the Ilopd, it small vessel, off the S. W. point of the Little or
West Cayco, n mile from it, we ran along the west side, at that distance, and then made
the Hope anchor in 7 falhoi.r-*, hard sand, within half a cable's length of the .\. W. point.
Seeing that the vessel drove, the bank beinv; very steej) and narrow, and the weather in-
clined to be squally, we preferred kecpl.'g under sail, and made several trips, keepin;;
well in with the land, at one ir.ile distance. Along the reef, on the west side, we landed
Very easily in some hollow |)laces, tilled with sand, and made by the sea in the saiulv
Btones which compose the island. 0|)i)osife these lioles at about three (piarters of a
mile fr(»m the N. \V. point, is the best anchoring.
" The west side of the Little (*ayct) runs N. by K. and S. by W. about five miles and
a half. On this side is the anchorage, sheltered from the trade-winds : nearer 'he N.
part, (which is nothing but a steep border of sand) at a cal)le';, length, you anchor at
about a pistol-shot from the shore, in H fathoms ; at two ships' length, there are 15 (ath-
oms ; and at half a cable's length farther, there was no gmund under the ship. If you
ifvant to stay there, the best way will be to have the out.-r anchor iti Id fathoms water,
and to carry another on shore. 'J'here is no swell with the E. N. E. and E. S. E,
breezes, however hard they may blow."
CANOE COVE. — This little bay is on the west side of Providence Cayco, and may
be of great use, as there is water enough for all sorts of ships, sheltered from the Norths,
which yoii should ahviiys guard against in this passage. The largest ships may anchor
in 6 or 7 fathoms, on a sandy bottom, looking out for a clear ground, and here and there
you will find it rocky. You are sheltered from the N. to the H. and to the S. E. by S.
The anchoring is within the west point, which you bring to bear N. taking care not to
come near the reef, which runs round this poiru for a quarter of a league ; th.e reef ends
there, and does not begin again till near i.' miles farther to leeward ; then it must bear S.
by W. from you.
From the north-west point of the Little Caydo to this cove, is N. N. W. 3', leagups;
but you must make a more westerly course, in order to avoid the reef and the Little Kev
already spoken of.
WATERING BAY and PINE'S KEY.— To the N. E of the N. W. point of Pro-
vidence Cayco, the coast forms a bight, the two points of which are five leagues asunder;
between them is \Vatering Bay and Pins's Key.
At this anchorage you are sheltered from the N. E. lo the S. .S. W. passing by the East.
The greatest advantage of Pine's Key is a great lagoon of fresh water, sufficient for fifty
ehipi i it is very drinkable, and not far from the beach.
The bbttom is too white near the land, and in the Cove, for you to catch large fish
with a seine : buc you must go in a boat on the edge of the reef without ; and you will
succeed still better, if you sail over with your lines afloat.
From the east part of Pine's Key you may descry all the islands and keys, which are
scattered within the Cayco, from N. to H. E.
The following remarks on the Oiycos, &c. have been written by Captain Livingston:
" The whole of the north side of the Cnycos is bounded by a reef, through which,
though there are various openings, they ought not to be attempted by a stranger without
A pilot. Vessels ouglit not to near the land within a league and a half, in running down
to the northward of the Caycos. Watering Bay is extremely dangerous, and is most
incoJ-fectly laid down in every chart I have seen. Tlie Providence Caycos is bordert;d
to the eastward, and northwaird, and westward, by as dangerous reefs as I ever saw; among
which, if" a vessel once gets embayed, it is next to impossible that she can escape. The
AmeHcaU sloop of war Chippewa, the ship Aimwell, of London, and brig Messenger,
Kunbley, wbr* all lost upon these reefs in 1816, within a few weeks of each other; and
two days after the Aimwell was lost, a vessel narrowly escaped the same fate ; to this I
*
Was an eye
with ihe v
aiitiiie col
and, profit
" After
through tl
run sat'ily
leagues, a
reef oil Sa
keep siiflic
The ("a
in the day
never atle
TIIUK-
Salt Kev,
The we!
alilioiigh
of a le;i};u(
You ni
island, opp
can be ('iin
ground, an
rise to wiili
under you
anchorage
I ago on of ^
^reases era
East of I
Very little '
ground tha
TURK'.»
cannot alw;
E.. and the
reconuTienii
breeze, and
bear .S. E.
may bring i
til vou have
N."byE.oj
the night, v
you have bi
tack and fet
The whit
southward
to 14 fathoi
the daytinu
land,) and y
Sandy Key
south of a s
to be seen,
fathoms.
To the s(
scrii)ed in t
When y(
N. by E. or
through, k(
lip, which I
Sand Ke;
you are to i
low drowne
the key at t
north point
The soul
which it tti;
far off, uof
blunt's ameuican coast pilot.
3-25
you nro to mnk«
the rfpf continue js
icm vt'i V noiir, in
111)11 vessels go in
French Key, be-
I stiind very ne.ir
It eiire, (or hiill a
, it slioiileiis very
'Ilie bottom IS
'the. Emerald.
\ of tlie Little or
\ and then niiide
the .\. W . point.
il the weather in-
ral trips, keepiu!;
St side, we landed
sea in the sandy
ee quarters ol' a
ut five luiles and
I : nearer '.he N.
1, you anchor at
there are 15 (atli-
lie ship. If you
.5 fathoms water,
E. and E. S. E,
Cay CO, and may
tVom the Norths,
hips may anchor
d here and there
the S. K. by S.
xins care not to
le ; tl'.e reef ends
it must bear S.
W. 3' leagufs;
id the Little Key
^V. point of Pro-
eagiies asunder;
:sin^by the East,
iulficient for fifty
catch large fish
ut ; and you will
keys, which are
tain Livingston:
through which,
stranger without
in running down
us, and is most
.'cos is bordert;d
iversaw; among
n escape. The
jrig Messenger,
each other; and
; fate ; to this I
t\-ns an fVP-witnens, as I observed the .\iinwill nti hjvore brfnre dark, and laid ton all nipht,
ih lie view of rendering her assistance : and, when daylight (ame, I perceived a brig-
wi
an
tine completely end>ayed ; and lh(»p on board nf her seemed to di.scover their error,
and, profiting by the wind's being at the tilii" olf shore, escaped.
".\fler rounding t'^e northwest point of llie (,'ayoos, and boiuid to the southward
through the I'assage, ;iaviiig brought the N. W. point to bear K. or E. by N. you may
run sat'clv, even in the darkest niulit. .steering al (iist S. W. .', \V. by compass, for 5
leagues, and then
by W. till da\ ii'^ht. Uv these coiuses von wdl de.ir the elbow
reef olf Sanily Key, between the I'rovidenciers ami Little ('ay<(is, and at the same time.
Keep sulfniently to windward of the Heneagua and liishop'.s Slmal.
The Cavcos are connected by a reef of coral rocks, ami there is no dancer of tliem
in the day, as the white water ' !lows itself. Vessels making the land about dark, should
never attempt to run through this passage in the night, unless sure of tlujir situation.
Tl'KK'S I.SLAM) l'A.SSA<iE.— 'I'here are three principal islands, Grand Turk,
Salt Key, and .'^andy Key; which they always make who go through the passage.
The western side (d' thesis islands is bold, and they \v,\y be approached very near,
although there is a while shoal, with many rocky spots, which extends about a quarter
of a leagiu' (rom the shore.
Vou may anchor in two places olf the (Jrand Turk ; one towards the middle of the
island, opposite the huts, the other olf the scmth part id' the island ; but neither of them
can be considered as good. Vou 1( t go your anchor as soon as you are on the white
ground, and take care to fuid out a clear bottom ; as, in some places, tlie points of rocks
rise to within H or 10 feet. Afier you have let go your anchor, and veered to half a cable
under your stem, you will not get any ground. Olf the south part of the island the
anchorage is of more extent, and you will find, on rhe point near wiiich you anchor, a
higoon of water that may serve for cattle. The white shoal S. W. of Sandy Key de-
creases cradually to .') fathoii's, half a league frotu the shore.
East ol these islands are several islets, which are connected by white grounds, with
very little water on them: they are bold on the ca.st side, and surrounded with a white
ground that extends to the southward and S. W*
TURK'S ISLAND PASSA(JK.- This passage is very short and good ; but you
cannot always be sure of fetching it from ('ape Haytien. You ought to steer N. E. \
E., and the wind (d'ten will not admit running so much to the eastward; it is therefore
recommended, in leaving the capo, to keep the wind as close as you can, with the early
breeze, and tack so as to fetch the Granue before night. You will generally bring it to
bear S. E. or S. S. E. If the ship sails well, or has been favored by the breeze, you
may bring it to bear S., whence, making good a N. N. E. course, you need not tack un-
til you have run IH or 1') leagues. If your last course should not have been better than
N. by E. or N., you must be particularly cautious not to pass the latitude of yi°. In
the night, when you think you are near that latitude, be sure to sound ; and the moment
you have bottom, about-ship aiuf stand the other way till morning, when you may again
tack and fetch to the windward of the white shoals of the Cavcos.
The white bottom is very readily seen : you may run on the edge of the bank to the
southward of the Southern Keys, for a league, or perhaps a league and a half, in from 7
to 14 fathoms; but farther on there are rocks, with 3 fathoms at the most, on them. In
the daytime you may .stand on to the northward, (supposing that you have not seen the
land,) and you will descry the Southern Keys of the Caycos ; or, if farther to windward,
Sandy Key. You must be careful not to go to leeward of the wliite shoals which extend
south of a small sandy islet, which is entirely drowned at high water. It is very difficult
to be seep, and your lead even, cannot give you warning, as you fall suddenly into three
fathoms.
To the southwestward of Sand Keyj lie.s the Endymion Reef or Shoal, which is de-
scribed in the following page.
When you have Sand Key bearing east, at the distance of 2, 3, or 4 leagues, steering
N. by E. or N. N. E, 8 or 10 leagues, will entirely clear you of the passage. In going
through, keep the Turk's Islands side on board, in order to avoid the Reefs of St. Phi-
lip, which extend from the N. E. point of the Grand Cayco.
Snlid Key is one mile long ; and, in fine weather, may be seen three leagues ofT; when
you are to the southward of it you would take it for two islands, its middle part being a
low drowned land. On the west side are 7 or 8 fathoius, upon the bank which borders
the key at the distance of three leagues, and joins a reef that extends a mile from the
north point of it.
The south point has, at about two cables' length, three focks close to each other, by
which it tnay be known ; but, to have them open and cleai* of the land, you must not be
far off, uof bring them to the eastward of N. E.
326
BI.UMS A. Mi: III CAN COAST I' I LOT,
The most rortniii uiiiik hy which ymi iniiy kmtw 8;uul Kry. in, thnt friiin tlir N. K. iinil
llie W. N. \V., y((U will set; no otlu-r isliiiiil, iiiid llie saml ii|uiti it in (|iiitf white in the
■un. The iinchoni};)' \h only knotvn hy iht; white water, iVoin 0 tu 4 tatiioiiiN, within
awivrl xiiut of it ; hut ship^* whicli draw iiiiirli water iiiiiNt anchor ahout hall' a mile ull',
bnni;in({ the touth poini to hear S. K., and the nnddle of it lioin K. to K. Iiy N.; tlif
north rocks there <i)ver you as lar as i\. N. K., and you may easily f^el under weii;h with
(my wind, as the nortlm, whic h are most to he feared, Idow uidy alon;{ the t:oast, su that
tliv we8t side may he reckoned .i ,i{ood roadstead. A ship which may, hy some accident,
have been prevenlt^d iVmu sailin:; throuuh the I'assa^e, would liixl a ijnod shelter here,
and iniu;hl, without dilficiihy, wait lor a more favorable Mind. 'I'lic red, on the north
part of tlie key, si retches from it north a little westerly, a lonj; mile, when it makes a
little hook to the S. W. but breaks every where, and within pistol shot there are H fa-
thorns; tlioii^h you must not come so near on the other parts of the island, for here
and there are some rocks, which liavc only 'J hithoiim water upon them. 'I'he cast side
has hi^h breakers (|uiti" to the shore.
Sand Key is low and barren, beint; burnt by the sun, and continually beaten by the
winds and the sea: it produces some small bushes only.
SAND KK V. — Sand Key may be seen nbout .T leamies oft'; it makes at first like three
islands, bein({ formed of two little hillocks and a rock, known by tiie name of Split Rock,
thouifii there is water knee-deep between it and the key. This rock serves to distinguish
Sand Key, over which it is probable that the sea breaks in all the norths, and other im-
petuous winds, for it is very low ; you may easily land upon it under the hillock, where
there was lormerly a pyramid.
This Key is scarcely mor<; tlian l."0() geometrical paces (of.*) feet each) lonir. From
the south end the Reef runs off three quarters ol a mile S. and .S. by W'., at the end of
which are three rocks, which always break and show themselves. The hillock on the
south part is Joined to that of the middle part, by a low land, whicli looks like a savan-
nah ; and from that to the west point, the land is also very low and even : you cannot land
here, nor must you anchor near this part, but towards the south, where all the dangers
show themselves. From the N. W. point is a reef to the .\. by \V. iV. N. VV. more than
2 miles, and about a swivel shot from the end of this Reef, is a larpe rock, always above
water; three (piarters o( a mile from which you have b fathoms rocky ground. Vou
cannot land at the east side, which is surrounded with rocks. The anchorage may be
made very convenient, by carryina; an anchor, with two or three hawsers, to the westward,
and then you would clear the island with every wind. J?iit in the months of May and
June, you liad better anchor about a mile or a mile and a half off, to be less exposed to
the swell sent in by the S. E. breeze, which is generally violent.
To the south-westward of Sand Key, lies the Endyinion Reef or Shoal, upon which
the British ship Endymion, commanded by Lieutenant Woodrilf, was lost in 1790.
The following remarks upon this danger, were obligingly communicated by the com-
niahder himself.
'' The danger of this shoal is but of small extent: it consists of seven or eight heads
of rocks, one of which has only S\ feet of water; and this is the rock whereon the Bri-
tish ship Endymion was wrecked, on the L'8th of August. n'JO, and til; then undisco-
vered. Some of the rocks have 2, 3, and 4 fathons on them, and between them 7, 8,
and 9 fathoms of water. The exact soundings between the key and the shoal, could not
be ascertained, by reason of the blowing weather, and from want of time. There are
some locks which lie olf to the eastward of the south end of Sandy Key; two of them
appear above water, and two others are even with it. The reef, from the north end of
the key, stretches off to the northward 1/, or 2 miles, and has some rocks out of ihe wa-
ter. The channel between the shoal and the key appears to be clear and spacious.
"The north part of Sandy Key bore from the Endymion, when aground, N. N. E.
and the south part of N. E. about 7 miles distant. The rocks extended about a cabled
length from the ship, which laid on the eastern and shoalest part."
South-west of Sandy Key is a white shoal, extending about 3\ miles from shore, on
vhich may be found from 7 to 9 fathoms.
General Observations on Turks'' Islands and Turks'* Islands Passage, coming from the
Northward, By Captain Hester.
" When bound to the Old Riding Place, at the Grand Turk, your eye must be your pi-
lot, or you will come from no ground immediately into Whitewater, when you must be very
brisk in letting go your anchor, as it is very little more than one third of a mile from no
ground to the beach, with not more than 4 or 5 feet water on it ; and from the outer
edge of the bank to the reef, not above a cable's length distance. It is very rocky ground
all in and nl
to bear east
fathoms, wi
" Krom <
and the sou
tremes of d
1,', cable: d
then had 17
\\ ., wind at
a» d 4 I'eet ;
tdinnal e(pii
the contrary
" Wood I
have no prov
salt, with s\\
"The noi
coming from
thetn, niulit
sail, endeavd
evening; bii
fore, and kci
obliged to d
justness of
above said, w
Caycos, whic
northward ol
through is >'
the islands
j)lease.
"It is true
consider the
coining on ; I
olf the S. E.
driving or pa;
the preferenc
from the nort
the night any
blowing hazy
could very w(
by endeavorin
of making th(
and choose y
a known depa
SALT KK
Salt Key, you
mile ; on thes
that distance,
a N. N. E. CO
soundings so !
two leagues fr
chor; but thi
musket-shot (
little way aste
by VV. or S. S
the rocks. T
be caught her
Salt Key is
triangular forr
and you will s(
and small tree
GRAND K
Key, you will
of the reefs, w
that the bank i
which you she
of the bank in
nMMS AMKinCAN COAST PII,()T.
327
111* N. E. Hnd
white in the
HUMS, wiiliin
ir A iiiilf uir,
. hy N. ; the
r weijili Willi
(iiist, Hu that
Illf iU'l'lllfllt,
^liflter Ih'H!,
Ill (ho north
II it ni:ilv('s a
eri' ;ire H fa-
aiitl, (or here
riic east Hide
leaten by the
irst like three
r Split Kock,
lU*iiH|ill|rilish
ind oilier iiii-
lillocU, where
lonq;. From
at the end of
liliock on tlie
like a savaii-
II) cannot land
I the dangers
^V. more than
always above
round. You
orage may he
the westward,
of iMay and
ss exposed to
, upon which
lost in 1790.
hy the corn-
eight heads
•reon the Bri-
len iindisco-
n them 7, 8,
al, could not
There are
two of them
north end of
lut of ihe wa-
lacious.
nd, N. N. E.
)out a cable'..
om shore, on
ling from the
st be your pi-
niust be very
mile from no
jm the outer
rocky ground
I
all in nnd nhout thf» anrhoraRC. Uring the rcntre of the hi{t;hrnt iiill you nee in the b«y,
to bear eani ; then Mteer riKhi for it, till you c-oiiie into white water, and you will have 4 j^
fathoms, white >*:uu\.
" Krom Octohrr dth to October 9tli, the north jminf of the (Jrand Turk bore north,
and the Honlh pmni S. K., Salt Key S. by W. | W., the body of the town east ; the ex-
tremes of ditto, N. K. by K. to S. K., distance oil shore 1', mile; distance of the reef
1.', cable: depth of wafer at the anchor, a(|iiartcr less st-vcri : veered out to half a cable,
tlieii hail 17 fathoms under the stern. The (irand Caycos from \V. ,', N. to N. W. by
\\ ., win
I at K. by .N.."^ latitude '21° •2^\ variation (>° -U)' K. Tides rise and tall abi
>ut 3
a» d ■• leet ; a i\
K. iimon makes liiijh water. Currents very unceitain. The au-
tidiiiial e(piinox subjeet to north winds, and ram very varial)le ; the vernal equinox to
the contrary.
" Wood may be cut with leave at (Jrand Turk; water is scarce uid very bad. They
have no provisions; but turtle and (ish may be cauRht at times. The trade consi.sts in
salt, with which they load for America and the adjacent islands.
"The north point o( the (iiaiiil Turk, lies in latitude 'Jl^ ;{(>'. To make this island,
coming from the sea, run down m the parallel of 'Jl" 40'; when you think youtlraw nigh
them, niubt coming on and seeing nolhmir, stand otf to the northward, under an easy
sail, endeavoring to be as near the same place at daylight, a.s you were the preceding
iht be-
evemng ; l)nt do not sail (urtlier to the westward than wtiat you could see tlie nigfit
fore, and kee|i running down in the above latitude. It may so happen that you will be
obliged to do the same thing the second n'glit. if not tl'c thir;l ; but that depends (m the
justness of your reckoning. Voii canno' well pass tiie Turk's islands, in the latitude
above said, without seeing them ; likewise you tvoiild make the N. E. part of the (Jreat
("aycos, which lies to the N.W. of the (irand Turk. There is a reef which runs to the
northward of the latter al)0Ut two miles, but nothing but what is discernible. The courst
through is S. S. W. 7 leagues, and then you will he in the open channel, between all
the islands and the north side of St. JJoiiiingo, and may shajjc your course as you
jilease.
" It is true that the channel belweeii the C'aycos and Mayaguana is wide ; but when I
consider the difficulties which will arise from thick, blowinc, hay.y we;.ther, and night
coining on; from your being more in the stream and way of currents, between the reef
o(V the S. E. end of Mayaguana and the back of the Caycos ; from the possibility of
driving or passing between them without seeing them, &c. all this .vould make me give
the preference to 'I'urks' Islands Passage, (n attempting the ("aycos Passage, coming
from the northward, you will not be able, (at least it would not be advisable,) to run in
the night any more th.m in endeavoring for the other; and in case of a continuation of
blowing hazy weather, you might be jmz/.led and at a loss how to behave, if, (which
could very well happen,) you were surprised with the breach of the Ilogsties; whereas,
by endeavoring for the Turks' Islands, though you should pass them, you would be sure
of making the (ireat (.'ayco ; and then it would be but running down back of that isle,
and choose your channel and time, either to windward or leeward of Heneagua, having
a known departure to go from."
SALT KEY, or the F^ITTLE TURK.— When you leave Sand Key, and steer for
Salt Key, you must make a north course along the reef, which runs oft' more than one
mile ; on these bearings from you, you come almost within a stone's throw of it; for at
that distance, there are 8 fathoms. Having gotten round the head of it, you are to (nake
a N. N. E. course to the Little Turk, which you may then see ; and you will lose the
soundings so soon as you have brought the reef any thing to the southward of you. It U
two leagues from the reef to the N. \V. point of the Salt Key, near which you may an-
chor; but the bank is very steep: for when your anchor is gone in 5 fathoms, vithiii
musket-shot of the shore, you will find the ship in 20 fathoms, and no ground a very
little way astern. You bring one point N. N. E. or N. E. by N. and the other point S.
by W. or S. S. W. you must look for clear ground, or you will have your cable cut with
the rocks. These places arc (it only when the trade wind is settled ; for you must not
be caught here with any other.
Salt Key is N. by E. from Sand Key, and lies N. by E. like the two others; it is of a
triangular form, its length sntnething more than three miles: it is higher than Sand Key,
and you will see here and there some little risings or hillocks, and a great many bushes
and small trees, fit only for fire wood.
GRAND KEY, or GRAND TURK.— Having advanced to the north point of Salt
Key, you will see the Great Key bearing N. N. E. 2i leagues; so soon as you are clear
of the reefs, which stretch off from the Little Turk, two cables' length, it will be found
that the bank continues from this, N. E. by N, to the south point of the Great Key, for
which you should make a N. N. E. course, though you might run along the west edge
of the bank in 4 fathoms, or might indeed anchor upon it, as you would be sheltered from
328
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
I
A*f'
the trade wind by the bank and its keys. You must, however, be cautious in steering
N. E. of a reef thac runs off from Cotton Key \V. by N., seldom showing itseH'in mode-
rate weather, and stretching as far as the South Point of the Great Key,
If you mean to anchor on the west side, which is much hke that of SiiU Key, (though
not so good as the Sand Key,) you had better keep along the Bank, lest you pet too far
to the leeward, and liaul in west iVoin a hillock, which may be plainly liislinuuished when
nearly in ; the bank is very steep, and looks shoal ; but you will fuid 4 or b fathoms water
very close to the land. Y"ou must, however, stand in only upon white water, till you
bring English Point K.by N.; off that point are some breakers quite close to the shore,
and there is shoal wafer. When the before mentioned hillocks near E. by S., you may
anchor within half a cable's length of the island, looking out tor clear ground ; English
Point will then iiear north, and tho South Point S. K. ; your anchor will be in 4 or 5
fathoms, the ship in 9 or 10, and the stern in 20, '25, or perhaps no ground to be found.
It will be prudent in staying here to observe when the trade wind dies, for you have very
little room to turn; you should also always buoy your cables, for the sandy bottom is
full of large Jtones, among wliich cables and anchors have often been lost.
The vessels which load salt, generally anchor to the northward of English Point, that
being nearer to tlie Salt Pond ; but neither the shelter nor the ground are so good as at
the other place. No passage is to be found to the southward of this island, but for a
boat, as there is a reef, wliicb is a branch of that surrounding the weather side of these
keys and banks. The (ireat Key lias the best ground of the three islands.
Of the two Salt Ponds which are on the key, one only furnishes salt ; it is about 4200
yards wide, and its middling breadth above 200. It produces three times- as much as
the pond of Salt Key ; but the grain of the salt is coarser, and not so bright as that of
the latter.
The latitude of the Grand Turk, by a very accurate astronomical observatiooi is 21°
26' 42" N,
Remarks on O^e rest of the Keys which are upon the Turk's Islands Bank,
To the windward of the Tu -k's Island, (that is to say, to the eastward,) are several lit-
tle barren keys. The northernmost of these are three rocks, called the Twins. Thev
lie three quarters of a mile east from the south part of the Great Key, and are very nearly
together. S. E- one mile from these is Pelican's Key, lying north and south, about
three quarters of a mile long, and very narrow. Bird Key, which is larger, is about 21
mile's in the same line. A reef, with great breakers, runs froin one to the other of these
keys, ending at another small one, called Breeches Key, which has two rocks at the
south end, and is close to the S. E. of Bird Key To the southward of these you might
come in upon the bank, there being from 10 to G fathoms of water. Between'the N. E.
point of Salt Key and Bird Key is another called Cotton Key. It lies nearly south from
the Great Key, 4,^ miles, and is the largest of all.
SQUARE HANDKERCHIEF. oV Mouchoir Quarr6 Shoal, is a dangerous and ex-
tensive shoal : the N. E. breaker is in lat. 21^ 7' and long. 70' 27', The extent of this
shoal from E. to W. is about 30 miles, and from N. toS. 20 miles. The principal dan-
gers are confined to the N. W. side of it, in which there is a key or bank, on which
there are only 8 or 10 feet water. From this shoal the bottom runs E. by N. 7 leagues,
to a rocky spot, where the sea breaks with great violence. It is natural to suppose that all
the iuterval is full of sunken keys, which render its approach vei- dangerous. On the
south and south-west parts the bottom shows and gives warning, id you will find from
10 to J5 fathoms : however, the best way is to bear up, and pass to leeward, unless you
jaie sure of being on the east end of the white grounds, and can weather them the liext
tack'
" Having entered, at 6 o'clock in the morning, the white grounds of the Square
Handkerchief, on the south-west edge, we found from eleven to fourteen fathoms, co-
ral bottom. Staod to the N, N. E. ; at 50 minutes past 7 sounded in fourteen fa-
thoms; saw ahead, a little to windward, a bottom which appeared nearer the surface;
we bore up, but too late for the vessel was stranded on a sunken key, in 9 feet water.
This may show how dangerous it would be to run on these grounds. Close to the N.
W. edge of this key we could get no bottom with 40 fathoms line. This key lies in the
latitude of 21'^ N." _ „ „
and-
kerc
The SII,iVER KEY BANK— This shoal has more extent thun the Square H;
irchief. The southern point is in the latitude of 20° 13', and the northernmost
I)art
in 20" .55'. It is very white ground in many places, especially in the north part, and
very brown in the S, and S. E. parts.
The north and N- N. V/. parts have some keys, with no more than 8 or 9 feet of water,
and perhaps less ; but it appears that these keys are not exactly on the edge. The mas-
ter ui a sdioo
coming down
raliier the N.
bic's length o
Thi^ t■a^t \y,\
Coinptdi; I'.cr
JiMving the (let
tlicm to agree
fin part of th
but alidut l.'f I
jN. K. which r
.Ships oiiirh
/jftcn fall from
of them, tli« b
the grounds.
The Silver
south, in tli;; s
Cape Fraii<-()i.-
You cxpcrii
% directions of tl
M ^<. E. part of tl
^ league from tli
% In general y
i these passages,
^ SILV^ER J>
from Cape Ha;
your course gm
you would pas;
sight of the IJ;
nmst not pass t
as far as 20"^ 35
! and must only
] south, the hoft^
j to get to the ni
; be entire Iv out
THE liANI
' Septeml)er 3(»,
of the Bank-hli
\ semhlancc*
the Bahama
though I have
from tin; Tnitc
consider it a,-; ;
day-light, and
Another voy;
rellcction of lig
" It was a novc
Ijottom, at the
day was cloiuHi
sky seemed llus
|J was singular.
*?| In allusion ti:
^^ tlian a piuk tin?j
marked it. So
uucc at that tin
Gcncr
In the rainy i
('uhaouglit to J
ring the scasoii
their port of dti
*Tlic Icc.Minl,
!ll)Olltill(liviili|i,|
.Ike darlicst niyht,
BLUiNT S AMEKICAN COAST PILOT.
829
IS in steering
itself in mode-
Key, (though
'ou pet too lar
cuished when
Ihtlioms water
water, till you
3 to the shore,
f S., you may
lund; English
1 be in 4 or 5
d to be found,
you have very
ndy bottom is
ish Point, that
» so good as at
dand, but lor a
• side of these
Is.
t is about 4200
es- as much as
fight as that of
Brvation, is 2P
! Bank,
are several lit-
Twins. They
are very nearly
1 south, about
^er, is about 2\
'■ other of these
^o rocks at the
lese you might
veen the N. E.
irly south from
igerous and ex-
e extent of this
? principal dan-
oank, on which
y N. 7 leagues,
suppose that ail
erous. On the
X will find from
ard, unless you
■ them the next
of the Square
m fathoms, co-
in fourteen fa-
er the surface;
n 9 feet water.
Close to the N.
s key lies in the
Square Hand-
rihernmost part
north pnvt, and
r 9 feet of water,
ige. The mas-
ter o< a schooner drawing; ') feet of water, found hiiiiself ashore on tlic Silver Keys, in
coining down after lie had run wax a mile S. W. on very white grounds. The east, or
ratiier the N. K. edge is very dangerous, hi this part tlnre are three keys within a c*»
ble's length of the edge, which have not more than 10 or 12 feet nf water.
The east part of the Silver Keys was ex])lored and soundefi in I7.j.'{, by Monsieur Le
(,'(»ini)tde Kenisorct, who, at that time, commanded the king's ship rKmrraiide. In loU
J(Mviiig the details of his route, and trying iiis longitude, soundings, hearings, \<-.. I found
them to agree so well, that nothing remains to desire on the exact position ol' the east-
ern part of this shoal. The western side is sale, anil there id a great depth of water;
but alxiut l.f league on the eastern side the bottom decreases, and you see shoals in tliQ
jN'. K. whiidi rise very near the surface.
Ships ouifht never toveuture within any p;nr of the white jjrounds, because they may
/jften I'all from 11 fathoms to ID feet ; if, by ident, they find themselves in the middle
of them, the best way is to tack, and go out ihe same way they come in, ranging alon^
the groimds.
The Silver Key is 11 leagues long, east and west, and 7 leagues broad, north and
south, in the greatest dimension. TJie westernmost part lies north anil south from Old
(.'ape Franyois.
^'oll experience on the ed^es of the shoals weak currents, which generally follow the
directions of those edges. On the Square ilandkerchief they are scarcely felt; on the
S. E. part of the Silver Key.s you litid them setting to the wost and >.'. W. ; but a short
league from the grounds tiieir ell'ect is not perceivable.
in general you ought not to mind, in your reckoning, the weak currents which exist in
these |)assages, they Ix'ing no where to lie I'eared.
SlLV^EJv \\V,Y IWSS.VdK. — Should you, by any circumstance, be forced to go
from Cape llaytien through the Square J landkercliief, you must at the departure make
yourcourse good N. K. by K. and K- N. K. Jf the winds sulleryou tosteerthat course,
you would i)ass in the mid-channel; but if you are forced to turn, and should not get
sight of the IJaytiei) siiorti, afti?r you have once got into the longitude of 70'^ 'M', you
nmst not jjass the latitude of ^O ' "J.j' without trequently heaving the lead. If you come
as far as "JO-" ;j.j' withotit getting ground, you have nothing to fear from the Silver Keys,
and nuist only look out for the Square Handkerchief, which is not dangerous on the
south, the bottom giving you notice in 10 and lo fathoms. In the latter case, continue
to get to the uorth-ea>! ward, and when you come into the latitude of xJl° 20' N. you will
be eiitirelv out of the passage.
TUH HANKIJIJNK OK TFIH CAYCOS AND BAHAMAS.— In a letter dated
September ."{(I, IHIO, Captain Livingston asks, " Has Mr. I)e Mayne taken any notice
of the iJank-blink .' 1 name this from the Ice-l)liidv, to which 1 presume it bears a re-
.■tcniblance.'- (.>ii the Cayiios i5ank 1 have seen it very distinctly in a dark niglit. On
the IJahama J5aid<s I have not had the same o])pi)rtunity of observing it distinctly,
though I have also noticed ic then;. Once on aj)|)roaching the Caycos, when coming
from the I'nited States, I saw it appearing extremely beautiful, during sun-shine, and
'■Diisider it \\i arising from the rays ol light rellected by [lie while sand of the banks in
day-light, and tlie reliection ol' thi> white sandy l)ottiim mi the atmosphere at night."
Another voyager, on passing over the (ireat IJaiik, 'las made similar remark.s on the
reliection of light from tlie white sand of the bank to the atmosphere. His words are,
"It was a novel situation to liehold an exjianse of sea, unliounded by any land, and the
bottom, at the same time, distinctly visilde at the depth of a few feet. Although the
day was cloudless, and the atmosijliere uueommoiily pure, the a/.ure of the horizontal
sky seemed lliished with an inl'usion ofpiiii; color, producing an elfect as beautiful as it
New Providence." — M' Kiiinon'sWcstL)({ies,\QQA.
.1 l/ivingston says, "There was a greenish rather
llr.ui a pink tingi; thrown up over tiie Cayeos JJank, at the time I most i)artieularly re-.
marked it. Some of the fainter hues of the rainbow come the nearest to its appea^i
mice at that time."
General Dhxdions iitiil-ins;, and navigating on, the Coast of Ciila,
was singular.
In aliusion
We now drew near to
to this r)assas:e Caiitaii
In the rainy season, or season of the southerly winds, vessels bound from Europe
Cuba ought to ])ass to the nortliwaid of Porto llico and Ilayti or St. Domingo; and di
Cuba ought to ])ass to the nortliwaid of Porto llico and Ilayti or St. Domingo; and du-
ring the seasoii of the rforths, they should pass to the southward of these islands, unless
their port of destination requires them to do otherwise. There are other reasons for
* Tiic Iceblink is an cfTiilfjcncc or rrflcction of Jig
I :il)()iit individnul icebergs. It enables the mariner tg
,tl),€ durlicst night,
48
or rrflcction of iigiit, seen over the congregated ices, and evcij
les the mariner tg dislingiiish thcni ut sonic distance, even ijj
330
BLUxNT S AMEUICAN COAST PILOT.
•*/ :
adherino; to this in();lu of ir.ivigating. In Cuha tho ports to whicli vessels arc bound I'lam
Europe, may be reduced to two: ilics(! arc tlie St. Jago de (Julni and the llavaira. It
bound to the lirst it is nncessarv, in every season, to direct your course directly to it:
that is. in the season of the norllis to st>'er from ( 'ape Tihuron, the S. \V. point of llaytl
in order to make some point (ni the .'.oulli side of Cuha, to windward of tlie inlended pon,
or even to windward ol' (Juantanamo ; and, in the season of tlie souths, to stecu-froin Cape
Nicholas' jMole, on the N. W. coast of llayii, ahno8t west for the i)ort, marking, in the
first place, the various iioiiits of the coast of Cuba, which iire after described. ]}ui
if bound to Havana, alitiilion should ahvays be |;aid to tin; season; that is, i|
your ])assa};e is maile in tiie tinu; of tiie nortiis, you should ','o to the -outh of Ciiltii,
although you have to return l!ie di-^lanec belween Cape Antonio and ilavana; becniiM'
this inconvenience is not conipara!)le to that which nhfiht be occasioned on the north side
by a hard north, which wtiuld not only expose a vessel to heavy risks, but might retarii
the voyaije miudi loiiucr than the tinit! reciuired to reach Ilavana from Cape Antonin:
for tliis distance may ir- worked up in a slujri'time, as you may h:'ve tin; assistance of tli'
current to the eitstward, as more [larticiikuly tlescribed in the directions for the Strait cil
Florida.
Those navicatinc; on the south of Cid)a, who have no occasion to totich at Trinidiul.
or any other part of thai coast, should ;<rive it a good oiling, and proceed to the west fron,
Cape de Cruz. Here it may be observed that, at the distance of ;{") leagues from ti)ai
Cape, is tbe western end of tiic low island called the Caynianbrack, the N. K. end o, which
is surrounded by an extensive reef, tlic making of which is dangerous by night, because
a reef extendi from it 1 miles out to stva ; and allowance must always be made for tlii
current, which, although variable, is generally prevalent here. The safest course ap-
pears to be to tlie northward of the Caynr.ui's; but even here it is re(|iiisite to beware ol
a shoal, on which 14 fathoms have been found, and which was discoverd by a Spanish
packet bound to Trinidad, in IdUO, and there is reason for suspecting that it'has spots m
very little water. The position of this shoal, according to the last Spanish chart, is lat.
20° 11' N. long. 80° :J8' W. It had previously been represented more than half a degree
farther to the eastv ard. *
The navigation on the nortli of Cuba is that of the Bahain a or Old Channel. For thi?
channel it is customary to take a ])i!oti who may be engaged either at Agiiadilla, on the
N. W. coast of Porto Rico, or at JJaracoa, in (Uiba, as noticed hereafter. If approach
ing Baracoa, for (his purpose, it will be reijuisue to determine the ship's place, in thevi-
cinity of Cape .Maysi; for other\\ise you may hap])en to fail in to leeward of Barac();i;
and even without the necessity ot calling for a jiilot, it will be proper to make the land in
the neighborhood of the cape, for the sake of a departure hence to the westward, and foi
correcting any error produced by eurreiu. 'IMie reinarkable jioints of all this coast will
be described. These descrii)tioHS, must, of course, be especially regarded, and striclh
attended to.
We have already noticed that in tliis channel, itulf pendent, of aiui current, there is ii
regular tide. ""'1. ■ "urrent itself is very uncertain, and no doubt fluctuates according tu
the variations of the i^iulf Stream, winds, cVc It sometimes sets E. S. E. at other times
W. N. W. and again ceases. With every precaution, a vessel ought not to cross tlir
meridian of Point Maternillo without having made and remarked it well; as all the can
of the most zealous and attentive navigator may otherwise be of no avail to keep him clear
of the Mucaras Shoal, on the north side, which shows no symptom of its existence until
a vessel is aground upon it. If obliged to beat up at night, it ought to be done so as iioi
to prolong the tack more than will completely and certainly clear the Muearu.^ Ilaviiii;
passed over the night in this manner, so soon as it is clear day, steer so as to make tlit
coast, and recogni/.e it well- If it be not in sight, steer to the south tiiitil you make it.
Having once recognized Mati'rnillo Point, direct your course so as to ])ass (.Tuinclio,
or Ginger Key, at the distance of two leagues, if by night ; or make it by day, and theiin
keep over toward the edges of the ( treat 15ank and Salt Key Bank, ratlicr than to thr
keys of the ('oast ol'Cuba, whicli oiler U'w marks that can be depended on; and an ap-
proach to which IS thereajre dangerous. You will have ])assed all these keys when
abreast of Point Ycaeos, and may tlience proceed. But the safest way, as before noticed,
is towards tin; southern edge of the Salt Key Mank, passing thence to the westward,
according to judgment, the state of the current, iVe.
I
*The same chart repvcscnts another shoal of 8 J fathoms to the north-eastward, in l»t. 20° 30'
and long. ^0^ 27\
cur.A.-'
extremity "<
Sea from tin
Antonio, on tl
!i;as;ues.
Cape Mai/.i
lat. 20^ K)}'
)>ii clearly see
lor a reef exit
ing the iiiillit,
lands of the ill
(o tbe N. W.,
Point Azulcs,
a reef, which <
Alavsi. Fron
aho'ut \V. N.
miles, to the 1
Harbor of 31;
mile.
The Ilarboi
Vl feet. To (
feet water, alii
so that there i:
depth for and
i''rom Puert
'J short miles f
the preceding,
Point Majai
each other, U
(Molasses lie;
between these
(he harbor of
Channel; and
in Porto Pico
The anchor
have only to a
to.SO fathoms,
you would be
ject of cominj;
tf) anchor ; bii
(ire a cannon '
ly open to the
vessel under i
trance of wh
what may be :
which best si
BARACOA
presenting its
able to get on
it during the
you may aln
Vunque de ]
harbor, is an (
a distance of
to]) of an anv
From the
(^atias, which
pletely open I
blunt's amkrican coast pilot.
3:jl
1 nrc fiaund t'lnm
tliu Havana. It
le directly to ir ;
. point of lliiyti
a- iiileiidcd \ntt\.
.stfcr (roin Ca|)i:
inarkiiii;, in (h,,
Jeseriljcd. ]]\u
nii; that is, j|
south of ("uhii,
avaiia ; l)ecniiM.
Ill the north side
itt niiglit rptaiii
Cape Antonin;
is,si.sta:icf! ottlii
for t*ie Strait nt
ich at Trinidad,
to tlic west fioiii
agues from tlmt
E.end (,, whicl,
r night, because
be made for the
ifest course ap-
iitf to beware of
•d l)y a Spanish
at it has spots nl
isii chart, is iat.
m lialf a degree
mnel. For thi«
guadilla, on tlip
If approach .
phice, in tlievj-
rd of Baracoa;
lake the land in
stward, and Ibi
1 this coast wili
ed, and strict))
•rent, there is a
es according tu ■,
at other times
lot to cross thf
as all the cart
keep him clear
existence until
done so as noi
ar.io. Having
IS to make tin
you make it.
la.ss (iuinclin,
ly, and thence
r than to the
II ; and an ap-
(' keys when
fore noticed,
the westward,
la l»t. 20° 3(y
ISLAi\D OF CIBA.
(P|-p,\. — This is ilie largest island in the West Indies, and is situated at the wcslcni
extrcinilV of liie innltituile of islands, keys, and l)aiiks. whicli separate the Caribbean
Sea froiii the Atlantic Ocean. Its leiiL'tls fniui ('ajjc Mai/.e, on the east, to Cape St.
Antonio, on the west, is about 'JOrf leagu'-s ; its brcadih is uiMvjnal, being from 12 to 24
Jeui^ues.
Cape Maize, the most easterly point of the south part of C'uba, is situate in or near
Iat. CO" L')',' N-. i""' longitude 74^ 1' W. 'Pile ]-n\v.t itself is a low beach, and cannot
}*e cleurlv seen until yon are lu^u-ly uj) v.itli it. jianding on it is CAtrcmely dangerous,
for a reef extends from it nearly a mile to the ea- tward : '.uid advancing towards it dur-
ing the night, is very unsafe, unless yoii lii.ve prmiously. in daylight, marked the liigli
lands of the interior (•onutry. either of ('uha or ol' lli.yti. i''roni this point the coast trends
to the N. W., and rounds to river Maysi, at a mile from the (^ape. from this river to
I'oint A/.uli's, which is another mill", lu'arly in tlic same dirccrion. (lie coast is bounded by
.1 reef, which extends out about a cable's l<'ugl!i, atid l;as a breal; at the mouth of the
Mavsi. From I'oint A/.uU's t!ie land begins to rise, and tlii^ coast is clean and trends
about \V, N. W. fiu' o miles, to Punta Frayle or l-'riarV Point, v, hence it extends west 6
miles, to the Kiver Vaniuri, and continues in the same direction tv.o miles jnore, to tiiC
JJarbor of Mata. All this coast is very f lean, a:id vou may run along it within half a
tnile.
The Harbor of ]Mata is very small, and too shallov,- to admit vessels drawing more than
Vi feet. To enter it you have only to keep in inid-chaumd, and juiehor in from 14 to 18
feet water, almost in the middle of the bay. All the shores have shoal water from them,
so that there is a space of o.dy two cables' length in di.uueter, in which there is sutfieient
de|)th for anchoring.
J''rom Puerto de iMata, the coast trends nearly N. \V. b miles, to Port Majana, and at
■2 short miles irom it is the mouth of the I'iver P.oma. This piece of coast, as well as
the prec(Miing, is very clean.
Point Majana and 15aracoa Point, which lie neaiiy east luil v.est, 2 miles distant from
each other, form a bay, in the east ])art of v.hic !i is the anchorage of Playa de Miel,
(Molasses lieach;) and in the west, the mouth of the Port of J3aracoa ; in the middle,
between these two aiudiorages, is the I'own of Baracoa, standing on the S. K. point of
the harbor of the same name. In this town dwcdl the pilots for the Bahama or Old
Channel; and therefore vessels wliieli liav(; not previiuisly engaged one at the Aguadilla,
ill Porto B ico, come here for one.
The antdiorage of Playa de Miel is very open to the norths. To anchor in it, you
have only to approach PointMajaua, and anchor something to the south of it, in from 10
to.lO fathoms, on a sandy liottom, taking care not to get to the east of that jioint, where
you would be immediately in 4, or even in less than ! fathom ; of water. The general ob-
ject of coming to Baracoa, being only to oiilain a i)ilol, ilii're is no necessity, in that case,
to anchor ; but approaching Point Majana, even within t^vo ealdes' length, if you choose,
fire a cannon or gun and a jiilot will come off directly. As the Playa de 31iel is entire-
ly open to the norths, in the season of them, it is much exposed; and, therefore, any
vessel under the necessity of anchoring, should steer at once for Baraco.., to tlie en-
trance of which there is no obstacle, as it is completely ("lean, having no danger but
what may be seen ; and consulting the plan of it, you may cjioose the spot to anchor in,
which best suits the draught of water of your vess(d.
BARACOA IiAIvBOR, though secure and sheliercd, has ijie great inconvenience of
presenting its mouth to tht^ breeze, and a great swell conse(]uently sets in; and, being
•able to get out of it with the land breeze only, vessels are olten detained much time in
it during the norths, when the land breeze is not fre(|uent; but in the rainy season,
you may almost reckon on having it every night. 'J'he Anvil Hill of 15aracoa, (El
Yunque de Baracoa,) which is a little mountain about 5 miles to the westward of the
harbor, is an excellent mark to recognize it by, as, in (dear days, it may be discovered at
a distance of more than 12 leagues, and appears, over the other high land, like the flat
top of an anvil.
From the Harbor of Baracoa, the coast trends almost true north, 3 miV-s to Point
(^anas, which, although very clean, ought not to be ajiproachrd, because, !;eing com-
pletely open to the breeze, there is always a heavy sAvell setting upon it. From Point
*>3
332:
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Caiiiis to llic Iliivlxir M;irnvi, is two jnilcs ; llic toast trends iioarly wpst, and is vorv
clean.
poirr MMvAvr, i;
HHl
:li stn.'dl, is am'H sliclicifd from tlic norflis. Its entranee is
not diliieult, for yon liave oniv to keep in mid-eliaiinel. wliicli is less than a eai)le's lens^tli
ill widtli, and nuMiins: jii for ilie middle (d' tlie liay, anchor as soon as an islet, which is
on its western side, hears in the same direction.
From ^Maravis tlie coast trends nearly nortli, iiiaUinc a hond, (or hijilit,) to Point ^'^an,
and from tlience it runs to the N. \V.. formini: another hend to Port iS'avas, wliieli is an
oj)r;(iiiit; of ahont t\\ o ealiies' jeniith in C'vtenl. in all direetioiK, v. itli its month to the
north; therefore, iisefnl f)nly as a sjieher from tlie hree/.es. 'I'o eiittn' it, no more is ne-
cessary than an iiis|)eeti(in ol' the ])lan.'
From I'ort Navas to I'ort < ayairnanetji'.e, t!ie distance is only two short miles. CnVa-
giiaiUMjue is ht for very small vessels nn!y, and ils cntrince is mdy 40 yards wide. 'J'he
jjlan will fjive aiierfect knowlod:.:e cd' it, antl ol" the di.'tieulties wliieli present themselves
in takin'j; it.
TACO. — '^J'liree and a half miles from Cayai^nnneciiie, is tlie ITarhor of Taco. It is
>vell sheltered ; Imt thimf^'h, in its interior, there is depth lor any class of vessels, yet its
ppiraiice has a bar witli only from I'i to !■- feet on it. and it is also ohstrncted hy rock)
shoals with little water on iheni, which si retch ont from hoth slnires; lint as, on arconiil
of the bar, vessels drawing; only 10 or ^^■l feet water should yo in. those will run no risk
in running over the shoals, and tlieret'ore may take this harbor by keeping in mid-elian-
iicl : and, when once past lite entrance, they may direct themselves to that part of the
harbor which snits th<Mn best.
l^'rom tlie llailior id' "^I'aeo to Point .Tara<rtia, is 'J' miles; and the coast, which is a
sandy bea(;h, is (!e;m. At Point .laragn';! it (eases to be so. thoiigli all between it and
('ape Maysi, may be nm along at a mile's distance. Point .laragna sends out a reef
which strotclies to tlio \. W. of it ; tliis |)oiiit is the eastern one of tlie anchorage of the
sanie name, wliich is only a!i openiiig in tlie reef, by whi( h a vessel may enter upon the
baidi or shoal, and find sin her from tlie sea, behind the reef'. 'I'he break or month is-
only two thirds of a cable's length wide : and from it to some islets which are to the 8.
W. of it, the" distance is two eable-!. The islets are three in iminber ; the southern one
is the largest; the anchorage lor large vessids extends only till you are K. and AV.true,
with the south jiart of the middle is|<'t; as I'arther in, there are only IL' to 18 feet ef
"water. 'J'o take this anciiorai',!', it is necessary to sail ou'side the rcf*!", which extends
ont from Point .Taragua, until the eas; pan of tlie gicai islet bears nt'arly S. W.. then
steer direc tly for it: and, if the vessel l>e larj.'e. anchor as soon as you are E. and \V.
with tin- middle islet, in ti fathoms, on a sandy boltom ; but it" the vessel draws not more
than J 4 I'eet. you may run further in, kee))iin:. if yon choose, within a (|uarter of a cable
f)f the great islet, and about a cable's lengrli I'rom the middle ol' it, you may anchor in
ly feet on clay. Yim may also enter the mmith without attending to the given niarka-
tion of 8. \V'., I)f«eause the reef itself shows the opening. This harbor should never he
taken cxcejU in a case of necessity, as there can be no other motive for vessels coniiii::;
to it.
From Point Jaragtui the coast frtMids, first to the N. \V. and afterwards to the north,
forming a great bay to Point (Juarico, which is 7 miles distant from the former. Tlid
reef which extends to Point .larauua, rounds the whole of it, alid stretclies out about
two miles from Point (iiiarico. In approaching this side of Cttba. be carelul not to mis-
take Guarico ]'oint for (Jape iMai/.e, it being dangerous at night and in thick Meathei.
when you cannot recognize, and use as marks, the eastern lands of the island, and par-
ticularly when you are uncertain of your latitude.
From Point (luarico, the coast trends nearly N. W. P miles, to the TJiver IMoa ; it is
lall bordered; by a reef, which extends about two miles out to sea. Almost N. by W.
from the month of that river, and between the x^ef and the shore, is an islet, named
Cayo Moa, which oilers an excellent anchmage, sheltered from all sea. Tt is entered by
An opening in the reel", almost due north from the moulh of the river. This opening is
About two cables' length in width, and continues \V. by S., forming the chaimel and an-
oliorage, until the east ])art of <'ayo .Moa bears norfli. 1%) take it, run along the east
side of the reef until uj) with the openint, wliieli will be when the eastern part of Cavn
Moa bears W. by S. ; and then steer S. W. until the soitth part of ( ^ayo Moa bears \V.
fi. W. TT W. ; then steer \V. ^S. and contimie so till you anchor to the southward of
the eastern oart of Cayo Moa, in t).'; or 7 lathoms, u])oh cby. 'J'he ]ilan of tlie port will
give a perfect idea of this anchorage; for reeogni/.ing, tir finding whi'eli, some mountains
about 4 leagues inland, named the Sierras de Moa, may serve as land-marks.
* The Plans referred to in these diivcliMnf!, are those of ihr Portitlano '^t tet America Selentrii'
nal, published at M' drid in 180-9.
From the
which extei
fnnn the foi
the caslern
»;erve as niai
for small ve
row and dd'ti
take this po
to the openi
the s(Hltllwa
coinniencei
IJiere is scar
CAN \N<
is prop riy.
fbroir^h tln'
Three nii
)>iosr dirti( nl
IW.NA.M'
coast is loll I
liarbor, and
cilge ol" the
have |)asse(l
i'(d makes, i
i:i»'e a berth
farther direi
(;ai}(>m
entrance of
piece of coas
two bramdie
leading to L
anil then stei
mill (diannel
on! about a
a eable of til
fil' the harbd
MPK.— I
■) miles to til
and has a :
liree/.e or th
lor this re(|H
s('as(m o(" tli
To distinji
th(;se are a
and extends
ma, to the w
that it Lanno
to the north
ma ; and as
begins to risi
of hills or ir
Pan of Srtin
15ANKS.-
I'anes : it is
iJanes has it
miles of ope
and a half ii
channel, are
seen. ( )nly
and with sue
slant, from i
pxtrr-mely di
wind, and it
rate as far as
from the res
to I'oint Mu
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT*
833
est, and is vorv
Its fntiaiifp is
a cal)ie's leiiirth
1 islet, which is
) fo Point A'nn,
v.ifi, which is an
fs month to the
, lie more is iic-
t miles. Cnva-
ids wide. The
<i'iU themselves
of Taco. It is
vessels, yet its
lU'ted hy rocky
as, on account
ivill run no risk
IS in mirl-cluiM-
hat part of the
nasf, wliich is a
lietween it and
'nds out a reel"
ichorage of the
enter upon the
^'aU or motith i«
•h are to the 8.
le soufliern one
\']. and W.true.
]L> to 18 feet «(
wliich extends
fly S. W., then
ure E. and \V.
(haws not more
nrter of a cable
may anchor in
e jriven marka-
hould never he
vessels coniiiii;
Is to the north,
former. Th(J
rhes otit about
efhl not fo mis-
tliick weather,
si a 11(1, and par-
iver IMoa ; it is
uost N. by W.
m islet, named
It is entered by
This opening is
hannel and an-
alons the east
rn part of Cayo
Moa hears W.
3 southward of
of the port will
ome mountains
ivks.
N
From the ancliorage of Moa, the coast trends about west; it is all hounded hy 'A reef,
which extends -J or ."{ iiiiii's iVoiii it, as far as J'.irt ^"asllane(|lle, which is 11 miles distant
from the ((irnier. < )ii tills part of the coast, and between it and the reef, are two keys,
the eastern one named IJmids, (Asses,) and tlie western Arena, (Sand :) these keys may
serve as marks for knowinsr tiiis part of the coast. 'J'he Harbor of Va!:uaiie(|ne is fit
for siiiall vessels oidy, because its bottom is shallow and uneipiul, and its entrance nar-
row and ditliciilt to lake, for tlie mmitli is formed merely by a break in the reef. To
lake this port, it is nc'cssary to folbiw the ediic of the reef to windward, imtil you come
to the openiiii;, which Wc^ S. \V. two thirds ol' a mile from Arena Key ; then steer to
(he southward, ke-'pins aloii'^ ilieed>;e ol' the \vt'ailier-ree|', because the lee-reef, which
commences when von are west iVoiii Arena !\ev. narrows the entrance so much, tliat
IJiere is scarcely a ca
en"tii ol' width in the elr.UMK
•1. It is (it f
ir small era
ft only.
()A.\AN()\ A. — A mile and a half In mi ^'a;,M^.llle(ple is the I'ort ol' ('ana nova, wliirli
prop rly. an opening of the coast only, and must be encer(Ml by another opening
tliioir'li till- reel'.
mile
to the westward (d" Caiianova Jlarbor, is tliat (d" Cebollas, which is alike
inosr diifu ult to enter, or to set out of, and tlierel'ore iiiifi' for iaru;(^ vessels.
TA.SA.MO.— Ten n
west Irom
(
elxilla.'
1,
I'ort Tananio, and the intermediate
coast is foal, with a red' w liich extends out a!)ont tw o mib's from it. Tanamo is a larj];e
liarlxir, and lit fur vessels ol' any (lenomination ; to enter it, you must run along the
i'i\!Sv ol' llie windward reel' iinlil yoii find the oix'niiijj; in it ; then steer S. ~ K. imtil vou
have passed the b'''wanl point, when yoii may keep away up the (dbow which the chan-
iMd makes, in the middle of which von ouiiht to keep ; but no imuc is necessary tlian to
sive a berth of a third of a cable, to all that is •visible. With the I'lan and your eye, no
farther directions are needlul.
(JAHOMCO AM) jjl\' ISA.— From Tanamo tlie eoast trends west 10 miles, to the
entrance of the ILirbnrs of (yabonico and Livisa; a reef extends also, 12 miles from this
pieceoi coast. These two hariiors have one common entrance, which divides withm, into
two i)ranches ; one to the eastw ard, leading to <.'abonieo, and the other to the westward,
leading to Livisa. To enter these harbors, yoli must go in by the opening in the reef,
and then steer for the windw-.ird jioint until it bears S. i K., and being then near it, keep
mill channel, •ivoidinu' a reef which runs out from the windward shore, and which lies
oiil about a cabby's length fr(un the iiitericu' ixunt. You may approach within a third of
a cable of the le.'ward shore : (uiee ai)rc;ist ol' the interior points, steer for the channel
of the harbor you wisli to take, witliont anv otlier care than t(,' keep mid-channel,
iNlPK. — l-"rom tlicsi' ports tii(> coast continues foul, having a reef about W. N. W.,
'> miles to t!ie 1 iariiiu' of Xipe. This iiay. for its magnitude and (!(^pth, is very extensivet
and has a spacious enfiance. The liarlior is always ac((^ssible, fur with either the
breeze or the norths, you will run in with a free wind; e(uning out is (piite the reverse,
lor this reipiires the land brec'^.es, which, as We have said before, is often very rare in the
seas(ni (d the norths.
'J'o distinguish this part of the coast, the mountains of C'ristal may serve as marks 1
these are a continuation of the ("ordillera, (or ranse,) which comes from Uaracoa,
and extends to the soiuh from Port Livisa, at about 1.'! miles inland. The Pan of Sa-
ma, to the west, is also another excellent mark of recogni/ance : its figure being such
that it(,annot be mistaken, because the summit of it forms a table. It rises on the land
to the north of Nipe and ]5anes, ard is almost jS. and S,, true, witli the Ifarhor of Sa"
ma; and as the nionntalns of Cristal terminate to the east, and the Pan of ,Sama, which
begins to rise gradually, ahuost from Point Mulas, form an opening or break in the chain
(d' hills or mountains, it is almost imjiossible for any one to mistake the place. The
l*an of Srtina may he seen 'JO miles oil".
]»AXKS. — Prtuu the 1 [arbor of Nipe the toast trends N. W. 11 miles, to the Port of*
r)anes : it is all clean, and may be run along at half a mile's distance. The Harbor of*
IJanes has its entrance in the middle of a bay fornu-d hy tlie coast, and which has 2\
miles of opening, whence it narrows into the entrance of the port, wliich is only a cable
half
m \\
idth. so that it res(nul)les a funnel. Tlie shores of both, the bay ^nd
lie uncommonly clear and dee]» to, and you have to fear nothing hut w! .. is
us.
nerica SatfntTif
and a
clianne
seen. < )iily thus could this port be entered with facility, as its entrance is so tortuo_._
|9 and with such elliows and turnings, that you must alter your course, almost in an An in
slant, from S. to N. It is excellent as a ]dace of shelter, for any cla.ss of ves.sels. It is
extremely diriicult, liowever, ^o get out of; l)ecaus(> its mouth stands open to the trade
wind, and it is necessary to avail yourself of the laud breeze to get out clear, at any
rate as far as the middle of the hay, that you may have room to tack and clear yoursell'
from the rest of it, as well as of the coast, which there trends about N. by E. 10 mHeSf
tn I'oint Mula.s, and which is foul, with a reef that stretches a mile from it.
334
ni.IINT ti AMERICA?f COAST PILOT.
POINT iMOLAS. — T(» mablo siny one to rfrojrnixe Point IMiilr.s, which, on accoant
of its being very (oiil, iiml lyin.f; f'urliirr to tiic iioilln iird tliaii nny i)f' tho ajiterior coast,
luiiy l)Pi -pry Hiispifioiis, ilio murks already given may sufhce ; these being the monri-
tains of vhisial and J*aii of Sama.
About f) miles N. W. from J'oint Mnlas is Point Lncrctia, which is r'ear and high;
the coast tlietice contiinics to the west, witli sdirii' inclination to the south.. Cor 13 miles,
to the Port ol' Sania, t'a'niing a bay named Kio Se( o, (\hy Jviver.) Vh thic coast is
very clear and scarped, excepting the bay, which has a beach.
THK POUT (JK SA.MA is lit Ibr vessels only which do not draw more than 12 feet
of water; and as the shores both of its entrance and the interior are very clean, the
inspection of the plan will afford all tho ni>cessury i.isfruction for taking it. You
may know this part of the coast and liaibor, by the J'an of Sama, atid a hill or moun-
tain near its western part, which is jiretiy King, and lies N. W. and S. K., aiul the top of
it seems to be plain and e(|ual, and at its west end arc scarped rocks which seem wliite,
and wlu'ri! much honey i^ maile. From this slojie a sandy beadi, named (iaurdalaboca,
contimu's to the west : to the south of it may be seen a (U^tached liil'. in tiie form of a
sugar-loaf, and to tin? S, \\'. a small mountain covered with trees, the top of wliicli
i. "MS a tabl(!, and which is named Mesata de Xeranjo, (fjittle Orange Table.) Between
the ill and the mountain is Port Naranjo, which is o miles distant from Sama,
i'OllT NAKAN.IO is a good harbor for vt.-ssels of every class. Jts windwi't-d point
may easily be known by being high and scarped, while the rest is of Leacli. To take the
Jiarbor you must sail without the reef, until the windward point bears S. ^ E. when you
may sail towards if, taking care to give it a cable's length berth, to keep clear of a shoal
which surrounds it, and stretches out about two tliirds oi' a cable from it. It is also ne-
cessary to be cautious of another shoal wliieh stretches out from the leeward coast, and
which sallies out to tin' north of the exterior sloping point, about one cable and one tliird.
What ought to be doiuMs, to run in mid-chaimel until you are past the two points of the
entrance ; and so sooii as you are well past that to windward, you may lulf up, and an-
chor in :i bight formed by the east coast, at about two thirds of a cable from it, and in 10
fathoms v,">ter, opposite the spot where the mangroves come down so as to be bathed
with the water.
Tliis Iiarbor has the peculiar advantage that a vessel uiay sail either in or out with
the breeze.
From Port Naranjo the coast, wliieh is a foul beach, trends W. 2^ miles to Point
Presquera Nucvo, wliieh is sloping and clean ; thence it descends W. S. W. 3 miles to
I'ort A'^ita, and is very clean. 'J'his littl(> ]iort is v( ry good for vessels which do not draw
more than 18 feet, and the inspection of the chart of it wih be a sufficient guide. Three
miles to the wr -.t of \'ita is another small harbor, named IJariay, at the moutli of which
thc-e is shelter from tiie bree/es, btu only in the interior from the norths. Very small
vessels only can get up there. Tlie coast between V'^ita and JJariay is very clean. A
mile to leeward of Jiariay there is another port named .lururu, the entrance to which is
very difficult, being very narrow; and although vessels drawing 20 feet may enter it,
only mall vessels ought to do so.
Gii?ARA OR XIUEKA. — Five miles Avest from Juiuru is the harbor of Gibara. Its
entrance is 5 cat)lcs in breadtli, and completely open to the north. The coast between
it and .lururn is very clean. To find the port, three hills or mounts, which are to be
seen to the south of it, and which, at a great distance, ap))ear to be islands, are excellent
marks. The first and most easterly of these is named Silla of Gibara (Saddle of Giba-
ra :) the middle one resembles the shape of a sugar boiler ; and to the west of the third
are some hills of a regular heiglit.
From Port (iibara the coast, which is clean and slopinsx, trends to the north, 2 miles
to Point Erava, from which follows N. W. 10 miles, of tlie s.une kind of coast, to Punta
Mangle (Mangrove Point;) and from it continues 6 miles in the same direction, but it
is a sandy beach and clean. From this point it trends west, but is foul, with a reef of
six miles to Puerto del Padre. All this land is low, and on the coast may be seen some
small palm trees, called Miraguanas. At the west side of Port Padre there are two
little mounds, very close together.
PUERTO DEL PADRE.— Tlie harbor o*" Padre is excellent, and fit for any class
and number of vessels. Its entrance is long, and only two cables in width ; its shores
are very clean and have dc.'p water. To enter this harbor it is necessary to navigate
outside the reefs, until the east point, named .larro, bears S. by E. ^ E., when you may
place the prow to the outer leeward point of the entrance channel ; and it is necessary
not to confound this point with another, which is to the N. E. upon the same coast,
and which, for distinction, is named Guinclms. The last Ins an islet of the same name
very close to it, and it may assist much in finding the mouth of this harbor. Running
\
^1
for the bcfi
clios, no mi
ivare of anv
From P<
R >ck PoinI
thai a lago
The toast t
trends W.
which strel-
PCEKT
may be disc
and may be
seen anotlie
which whei
to the view t
and is daiii;
This harl
long, iiarroN
vessels only
of water, it
so with shi|
Three mi
The coast t
the i)ort off
sels of 12 ft
out 6 cables
tance by a c
length in br
acrpiainted ;
may run alo
NUEV^'I
N. W., 11 1
as the harbc
harbor. Tl
high to the
many shoab
avoid its wii
ble's length,
poiiii; but t
crooked.
From mil
of which rec
the b;iy.
From Nu
very clean,
a reef whicli
tie ; and iie;
mount, callt
mences a gr
many keys a
navigation, ;
kevs upon it
About W
little islet, a
jaba. This
and west,
being of lesi
west»vard it
beyond thes
coast being
keyr'o
Romano, an
tent. This
wide. The
die. The '
bly withia t
BLUiM' S AMERICAN COAKT I'lLOT.
335
fi, on account
nterior coast,
g t}ie nioiiri-
nr and high;
(or 13 milt^s,
thic cuast is
! tlinn 1'2 feet
ry clean, tlie
uiS, ii. You
ill or niouri-
nd tlie (op of
seem white,
laurdaiabocn,
he form of a
op of wliich
'.) Between
ani.i.
[i(l\v;'nl point
To take the
E. when yon
Rar of a shoal
It is also ne-
rd coast, and
iuid one third.
I points of tlie
' lip, and an-
i it, and in 10
to be bathed
1 or .?ut -.vilh
les to Point
V. 3 miles to
1 do not draw
lide. Three
nth of which
Very small
y clean. A
e to which is
lay enter it,
Gibara. Its
oast between
ch are to be
are excellent
die of (iiba-
of the third
)rth, 2 miles
ist, to Punta
ction, but it
ith a reef of
)eseen some
lere are two
for any class
; its shores
to navigate
len you may
is necessary
same coast,
I same name
Kunning
I
for the before mentioned point to leeward, and then close past thu S. E. p'.ni of (luin-
clios, no more rtiiiains tli.iii to steer for the channel, without its being necessary to be-
ivare of any more, tliaii wliiit is visibb'.
From I'ORT I'ADKK the coiist fullows to the west, .'> miles, to Point Piedras or
T\ >ck Point. J lyre i- 'he entiaMce o!' the i;ri';it bay of .Mal.iijuelii, which is no moie
tlr.u a la^«ton, formed in tin; interior, in conseiinciice of tiie land lieing low and wet.
T!;.!(,oast then trends \. N. \V., 5 miles, to the Point of Coviirrnbias, iVoiu which it
trends W. N'. W., !(• miles, to the harbor of Manati. All this coast is luul, with a reef
which stretches outlVom it aiioiit two iniles.
PCKKTO 1)K ;M ANA 'IT.— The liiubor of Manati may beknown by a mount, wliich
may be discovered inland from it, slia|)ed like a sugar loa(. It is called the iVlanueco,
and may be seen at the distance of 1.") or LM) miles. Close to the west of this may be
seen another hill not (|uite so high as it, which is called Fardo, or the Table of Manati,
which when seen in one, or slint in with the Manueco, looks like one hill, and presents
to the view the appearance of the saddle of (jibara, which appearance has deceived many,
and is dangerous to navigation.
This harbor <.;" Manati may be considered as a lagoon, formed in low wet land, with a
long, narrow and crooked channel in it, and in whicli there is depth of water for small
vessels only ; as this channel, tliroiigliout its t'xieiit, is i)ordered with shoals of b and H feet
of water, it is running much risk to enter it with middling sized vessels, and much more
80 with ships of war.
Three miles N. N. W. from Point Rlanati, is Point JJrava, which is foul, with a reef.
The coast thence, which is also foul, with a reef, trends about west, for live miles, to
the port ofNuevastiiandes, ((Jrcat News.) To enter this pcjrt, which is (it only for ves-
sels of l!>J feet draught, it is necessary to go in at a iireak in tin' reef, and the reef lie.^
out () cables or two thirds of a mile from tli' coasi, and follow in afterwards all that dis-
tance by a channel which the reef forms, and which in somi! places is only half a cable's
length in breadth. 'J'his ehannel is very crooked, and therefore any one who is not well
accpiaiiited runs much risk. So toon as you are abreast of ilie points of the harbor, you
may run along the coast at liie distance of one (piarter of a cable, without anv fear.
NUEV4TAS DHL PKIXCIPE.— From .Nuevas (irandes the coast trends about
N. W., 11 miles, to the harbor of Nuevitas. Jt is all (oul, with a reef, and may, as well
as the harbor, be recognized by three mounts, of slujrt extent, which rise within the
harbor. The ■ are also three islets in the harlior, nanied the Ballanates. These seem
high to the east, ai,d diminish towards the west. Nuevitas Harbor is a large bay, with
many slioals, but (it for any number and class of vessels. To enter it is necessary to
avoid its windward or east point, to which you ought not to approach nearer than a ca-
ble's length, but approaching, if you choose, within half a cable's length of the leeward
poiiii; but the best way is to keep in the middle of the chanuel, which is very long and
crooked.
From mid-length of the channel, going in, the corists send out shoals, to keep clear
of which requires good practice ; which practice is equally necessary in the interior of
the bay.
From Nuevitas the coast trends about N. N. W. to the ])oint of Maternillos, and is
very clean. From Point Maternillos it trends ai)out W. N. W., and is bordered with
a reef which stretches out a mile and a half. All the coast from Maternillos rises a lit-
tle ; and nearly at the end of it, and about 14 miles from Maternilios, there is a little
mount, called that of Juan Daniie, which forms a kind of table. At this point cora-
niences a great white shoal or bank, which extends far to the west, and upon which aro
many keys and reefs. Here we cease from describing tin; coast, as being of no use t»
navigation, and begin to describe the edge of the white ground or shoal, with islets and
keys upon it.
About W. N. W from the point of Tuan Danue, but almost joined to it, there is a
little islet, and in the same direction, and at tlie distance of 6 miles, is the Island Gua-
jaba. This island may be known by four little mounts, which lie almost in a Hue, east
and west. The (irst three may readily be seen, but it is not so with the fourth, which
being of less elevation than the third, remains hidden by it, but as you advance to the
westward it opens out, and the whole four may be perceived. At about 4 or 5 leagues
beyond these hillocks aj)pear, as it were, many islets, caused by the lower lands of the
coast being invisible above the liori/.on.
KEY ROMANO, &c.— To the west from (Uiajaba, at the distance of 8 miles lies Key
Romano, an island stretching N. \V. and S. E., in which direction it is 16 leagues in ex-
tent. This land properly consists of two islands, separated by a channel, half a mile
wide. The eastern isle has some heights, which, in the middle of it, form a kind of sad-
dle. The western isle is of low, wet, mangrove land. Key Romano hes considera-
bly withia the White Grounds, and two small keys, called Key Verde and Key Con-
33G
HLJJiNT S AMERICAN COAST I'll.OT.
flics, lie iiPiiily N. ,1 W. Iroiii its niistornrnost li«'ii;lit ; tlio (irst at llic distanco of 7, and
th(! st'i;()ii(l at IJ iiulcs. Key Verde lies i\. \V. j \V. Iroiii tlic west part ol (iiiajaha,
and Key Ooiilitt's, N, W^. Iiy \. Jici wecii tliest; two kcytt is an anciioragt;, wliicli may Ijc
laktMi in ca.st- of nec'cssitj,
Tiic Key V trdo or (ircrii Key lies 4,' iiiiK-s S. i>y K. from Key (Jonfitcs, aiio 'i reef ex-
tends from it nortlnvaril, to tlic distance (d ii mile and a lialf. Froiii Key Coutil'.is a rcof
likewise extends to the soutliwanl, one mile, and llicre is a clear passage of more than
iwo milc>. witliin llioe reefs.
In order, tlierefore, to s^ain this anchorajje, when couiiMt; from the eastward, you must
htaiid in for the passage formed hy these reefs, keeping; a Idtle nearer to Contites than to
Key Verde ; and ^vhen tin middle of Contites hears due N. W. hy N., and the middle
of Key Venlo S. hy W. \oii will he on or nearly on the eds;e of the hank. Then lay
the ship's heail W. N. \V. and stand on in this direction, until the southernmost part of
Key Contites hears north, when you will stand N. N. \V'., or a litile more to the north-
ward, llavinsj; at len.tjlh l)rouu,ht the south end ol' Conlites N. N. E. half a mile distant,
you may h-t ;jo the anchor, in :!', or -1 fathoms, on sandy j;roiuid.
In getting under way iVoni this anchoraj^tf, should the wind not allow you to stand
to the S. K. you must hear away to the iN. W. Iiy N., until you have cleared a reef of
rocks extendiuy; three (|uarters of a mile to tin; N. W. I'roin (andites Key; alter which
you may stand to the north, ii#order the sooner to ji^aiii the main chamu-l.
West from Key Verde there is a rcjund key, named I'aloiiias, ( I'ii^eoii's,) with various
other small ones in its neii^hljorhood. To tlu; nortliwaid is the i^land named Key de
Cru/, (Key of the Cross,) wiiich is aliout i;j miles in exteiu, N. hy W. and S. hy E. "^ro
the N. I"^. of this isle, and at the distanc(^ of ;j miles, there is on the very edfje of the
grounds, a shoal named Tributario de jMinerva, which Ilea N. 41^ W. from Key Con-
lites, at 1'2 miles distance.
The edifc of tht!i.',rouiJ<ls, which is reef, stretches out a mile and a half from Juan Da-
nue, 2\ Mules from (iuajaba, anil from the E. N. E. to N. E. from the liii,'h part of Key
Komano, forms an opening, hy which, according to report, a vessel may enter, and ari-
<;hor in h fathoms, upon sanil, hut good holding ground; hut as wo cannot guaraPtco
this, any one who makes the attempt ought to exeit great caution.
From this opening the reef rises again, hut makes the opening already described be»
tween ihe Key Venh; and Key Coidltes; and thence the (alge of the ground continues,
sometimes foul, and at others withoiu reel, to the 'J'ributaricj Shoal, This slioal breaks
with a fresh hree/,e, and sho\vs above the surface at low water. Six miles west by north
I'rom it is iv( y J5aril, (Haired Ivey,) and further to the west is Great Paredou Key. The
edge of tli(^ grounds, which is someiimes I'oul and sometimes clean, lies out two miles
from Key JJarii, and one and a half mile Iroiii the north [lart of tlu ( Ireat Paicdon. The
latter key affords good aiiciiorage for either the time of breezes or land-winds. To
ascertain and take it, remember that at a cable's length to the north of its nortu point,
^here is a small round key, wliich you ought to leave on tin; larboard hand when going
in, and passing witliiu from half a cable to a eal)le's length troiu it- Vou anchor soon ms
you are sheltered from the land of the (Jreat Paredou, in the depth of ivater that suits
the vessel's draught. On entering you will leave to stavljoard another key, rather larger
than the one you leave to larboard : it is called the Middle Paredon, and lies about 2\
miles from the first.
From the Middle I'aredon to the w('st, there is annthcr large key, called Coco, from
tlie middle of whi(di, to the west end, there is anchorage; on its north side.
To the west of Coco Ibllow the groups of trees called .St. Philip's Cuilermos, and
Santa Maria's. 'Vo the west of these, and at the distance of IG leagues from Coco Key,
yes that called Key Frances, which may be known from its having three rotuiil mounts,
gi.jtWD,of them very close; together, and the third separate. These are naitied Tetas do
'"■?Vpida, (Widow's Paps.) Westward from this key is another jiyrtiun of keys, one of
ih^ich cannot be distinguished I'rum another without diificulty, as they are so much
alike.
The edge of ilie grounds from Key Frances, and evem something before that, is clean,
and the lead w ill there warn you before you are in any dangea' upon it. Neverthelt^ss,
there is considerable risk from tlu; ])axo iNicoluet ()r Nicholas JSlioal, which is a s])ot of
sand, lying at a considerable distance to the northward of the other keys, and is 46
fathoms- long, and .'i fathoms wide. It is surrounded hy a reef to the N. E. N. and N.
W. to the distance of a cal)le and a lialf. T\vo miles to the west (V(jm it, another shoal
breaks, which is named the Ale .traces, and, as tlujse shoals present great dangers to the
navigator, it is necessary to give some marks to rec6gni/,e them by, antl which will indi-
cate the position of a vessel in respect to the shoals.
Among otlier mountains which are on the laud of C'uba, and about S. S. E. and S. from
these shoals, the Sierra Mojeua (Black Mouutain) is the best kuowu. It is long, and li?s
N. W. and .'
are various
\V. fxiremii
Shoal. A li
Heights on
Nicolao Sho
being X. am
15ay of Cadi;
To the we
extent ; the
Sierra de I.
tremity of th
proportioned
Ihe Paps of '
appear to be
most |)art of
the highest
which are to
little less eie
ii) the interio
Tlie Whit
border of it,
terminate at
erninost on t
norths may b
The VCAi
a mile from !
I'lKDHA.^
which cannot
smallest is tl
From Monill
and from the
from Mono, tl
The anchoi
ward of IMont
any sea, comi
fathoms, and
as you discov
at pleasure,
care to avoid
MATANZ
teen miles, to
zas. You m;
which distinj
having a rout
ties, exceptiq
noticed at a d
appears like i
it, adjXiining,
'iut it begins
seen at the di
height, other
The Harbc
norths, but it
place ; for, as
land-breeze,
of easy entra
anchorage,
distance of tv
a half, while
the western si
St. Seyerino,
seen iu the S
and anchor s(
i N. where yi
BLUNT S AMKRICAN COAST PILOT.
337
ICO of 7, iiikI
(if (iiKijaha,
liich iihiy bu
iKi i leel'cx-
iiilii'.tM a rt'ol'
)t' more ihua
(1, you must
ilitcs than to
I the miihllo
. Thi^ii l;iy
imost part of
0 tilt' nortli-
iiiilo (hstatii,
>(iu tu stand
timI a rct'l' of
alter wliich
with various
iiu'd Key de
S. l)y b:. To
e(l,i;e of tho
111 Key Con-
>in Juan Da-
1 part of Key
Iter, and ari-
ot guararteo
escribed be-
lli continues,
shoal breaks
est by nortli
\ey. Tin;
ut two miles
ion. The
winds. T(i
irtli point,
.hen J^^oiiif;
•hor soon mm
■r tliat suits
ather larger
ics about 2\
Coco, from
ennos, and
Coco ivey,
iiid mounts.
Tetas do
eys, one of
e so much
id
lat, is clean,
'vertlieless.
is a spot of
■1, and is 4()
N. and N.
other sho'.d
liters to tlio
:h will indi-
and S. from
ng, and lies
^'. \V. and S. E. Tlie S. K, lead of it is rfioderaloly hiiih, and upon its extremities
nrn various points or peaks (i)iehai.'dios.) Of tliese peaks the two which are on the N,
W. exireinity of tho Sierra (mountain) ate hii.!h, and lie N. and S., true, with Nicoiao
Shoal. A little more to the west ofilw Sierra ,Mnreni. rises annthermountain, with threo
Heights on it, of ^yhieh the middle luu- is the hijihest : it liesS. by W., true, lioni tlie
Nicolao Shoal. These heiijlits are named tlie 'I'etas de la I5ella, (lUlle's I'aps ;) and
bcin^I N- iiiid S. true with tlie middle one ( Z thein, you will be also N.and S. with the
15nv of Cadiz I\'ey, and past both the Nicolao and Alaeatraces Shoa's.
To the west ofthe^l'elas do la Mella, two mountains are seen. The fust is of regular
extent; the second or westernmost very Imic;, ami at tho end of it are two hills, named
Sierra de J... nones, (Jiime Mountain.) which runs S. by \\'., true, with the western ex-
treniitv of the JJay of Cadi/. Key. I"'arther to the west lies out anotlier mountain, of
proportioned extent, named Santa Clara; and somethin;; to the west of it may be seen
the Paps of Camarieoa, of which there are four, thimgli in some positions there do not
appear to be so many. The middle one is the larsiist, and lies S. W. with the western-
most part of Key Cruz del Padre, (Key of the Father's CrosH.) These mountains are
the higliest which are on tho north coast of Cuba; but it is to be remarked that those
wbirh are to tho east and west of them are very equal to those of tho west ; indeed, ar«
little less elevated than tliese mountains themselves. Such are the lands that are seen
ii) the interior of the island, from the proximities of the Nicolao Shoal.
The White Ground still trends to the west. There are many keys u|)on the edge or
border of it, and the edge is d;<ns;erous, havin<; some reefs on it. 'J'he tjround and key»
terminate at I'oint ,)acos, T , ■ ke\s named Mono, Piedras, and Monillo, are the west-
ermnost on the reef. These afford good anchorage where shelter from the swell of the
norths may be found.
The VCACOS KEYS. — The north-eastward of Port Ycnros, at the distancoof about
a mile from the edije ofthe baid<, lie the three islets called by the Spaniards (Jayo Mono.
IMKDI^AS AND MUNUjLU. — These keys atford convenient andioragc to vessels
which cannot advantageously use tlie Harbor of Matanzas. Tho southornmost and
smallest is the Monillo, which lies at the distance of three miles from Point Ycacos.
From Monillo to the ('ayo ile Piedras, (Rocky Key,) the distance is only half a mile,
and frum the latter to Mono Key it is two miles. At a mile and a quarter N. E. by N,
from Mono, there is a dangerous reef.
The arichorage, in regular soundings of .5 to 7 fathoms, bottom of sand, is to the south-
ward of Dlono, and on the east and south of Piedras, where shijis may lie defended from
any sea, coming from the northward. "^J'he ground is sandy and clean, with from 5 to 6
fathoms, and vr:^-;els here may at all times get umlersaii. To take the anchorage so soon
as you discover the keys, stand for the middle of either passage, and let go the anchor
at pleasure. It is only necessary that, in approaching from the N. E. you must take
care to avoid the reef above nientioned, lying tp the north-eastward of Mono.
MATANZAS.— Froni Point Ycacos the coast trends to the S. W. and W. S.W. four-
teen miles, to the Point of ."'uva, which is the eastern ))nint ofthe great Hay of Matan-
zas. You may run along this coast at the distance of a league. The Pan of Matanzas,
which distinguishes the bay, appears from this direction like an insulated mountain,
having a round surface, and without peaks, water-courses, precipices, or other inequali-
ties, excepting a small fissure near the S. E. part ofthe summit, which can hardly be
noticed at a distance, being of so little depth. When bearing from S. S. W. to south, it
appears like one round hill ; but on any other bearing, another appears on each side of
it, adjXiining, and not po hii-'i. The land to the eastward is even, tliough not very low;
'iut it begins to rise at ?I;ianzas with a gradual slope, and to the west the coast may be
•seen at the distance of l •,"'•' leagues, but it is alike even or level, without any remarkable
height, other than the i'an, \>,ich apjiears over it.
The Harbor of Matanzas, which is at the bottom of the bay, is well sheltered from the
norths, but it has several reefs. The Derrotero says it is difficult to get out of this
place ; for, as there is not room to beat out, it is necessary to get clear of it with the
land-breeze, which, during the season of the norths, occurs but seldom. The harbor is
of easy entrance, but it is necessary to avoid some shoals which lie almost in the very
anchorage. To accomplish this, it is advisable to keep along the leeward coast, at tjie
distance of two or three cables' length, passing Point Maya at the distance of a mile and
a half, while it bears to the southward. With the vessel's head nearly soutli, you pass
the western shore at the distance above mentioned; and so soon as you see the Castle of
St. Severino, bearing W. | S. stppr m that direction, until tl^e houses, which will be
seen in the S. W. pr.rner of the bay, bearS. 35° "W. when you must steer towards them,
and anchor so soon as the Castle of St. Severino bears between N.'W. | W. and N. "W.
•J N. where you wjl) have 6 or 6 fathoms of water, on loose clay or ooze.
43
338
fiLUNl's AMIMlfCAX COAST I'H.OT.
I
To get out of this harbor, it in hrst to clriir yoursi'ir liy rowing, or liy tnr aid nCtlie
Innd brt-ezr, it" joii iiavc iuiy, at a linn- win n you cdnsidiT tiic nratlirr as srtlird, and
there is no appear'. net' of iioilli.> ciiiriiii;; on
It'
itnealilf, you may crosH over, iind
come to an ancln)r on the l)aid< or t.|ioal [loiiit of Maya, wiiicli will he u propi-r nituatioti
to inuke Huii from, when convenitnt.
Kemitrlys oti llif llnrlior of Mali/ir.ii.", .''i/ Mr. IJilhnnii: — "This harbor is rasy of ac-
cess, ami capabU' of lM)ldiiig a great nnn.licr n( shipping of dillcrmt sizes, ronipleicly
nhehered from all winds, except linise iVom the N. K.(|narler, wliicli send in a heiivy sen.
The anchorage is partly proteeli d on llie N. K. by iwo shoals, named Maxo Neuvo, or
New Shoal, and La Laja. On the shallow 'st part of the New Shoal, which is also the
northernmost, is a buoy, with a pole :Mid white flag, in 'J lathonis waier; and on tlit
southernmost, (La liaja,) is a poh
between the two llaus, and the cl
liite (lag in 'J feet ; the prin<'ipa! enlrance i-*
very
nma
II,
a IK
1 at ti
about 'J cables' lenjith wide
rl
Tl
use
(li
Igs ;ire
ms canno' bt .-.t. .• at moie than half a inde distant ; and as thev art
badly fixed, very often break adrift. 'I'hcet'orr a stranger ought to pay strict attention to
the leading mark, and keep a good loo'i-out for the shallow water."
" The leading mark, is the south suit! or notch in the Fan, on with a large white house,
standing on a hill at the back of the town, and is the westeriuuost house visible, beariii;;
W. S. \V. ,|f VV. by compass. 'JMiis mark will cany a vessel in mid-channel between thp
shoals ; and when tin- Castle of St. Sovcrino bears Irom N. \V. \ \V. to N. W. }, N. you
may, if in a largo shij), anchor in from 5 to 10 fathoms, and at the distance of a inib
from the town. Small vessels may anchor farther up, within one third of a mile from
the town, according to their draught of water."
" There are also two other good channels into Matanzas : one between the New Shoal
and the Castle of St. Severino, having rt or 'I talhoms in it; and the other to the south-
ward of the South Hank; but the middle channel is that preferred."
" The Spanish plan in the Portulano de la y^nicrica Setentrional, published at Madrid,
in 1809, is very incorrect, with respect to both distance and sotindings, and should nut
be relied on. The tides rise and fall at times between -J and .'J feet; but they are in-
fluenced by the wimls, and very irregular. It is not so dilficull to get out of this pbicp
as has been described. During the T) days tliat we lay here, the sea and land breezes
were regular; and in the event of their not being so, vessels may beat out at almost any
time, if acquainted with the place."
The Derrotero continues : From the Harbor of Matanzas, the coast rounds to the \.
W., to the Punta de (ruanos. which is tlie most |)rojectiiig point to the northward, and is
distant from the mouth of the harbor or bay, about 4 miles. From Point (inanos the
coast runs almost (West) W. }, N. a distance of 40 miles, to the Morro of the Havana :
it is all clean and b(dd to, and may be run along at the distance of a league, or less, ii
lequired ; inasmuch as there is no otlier risk than a rocky shoal witli little water on it,
which stretches olf from the coast, between the Kincon or Corner, and the Punta He
Tarara or Cobre. Along all this coast are soundings on sand, which extend more or lc<s
from shore, and of which the edges are steep and dear, so that you suddenly pass from
100 fathoms to 20. With the load going, there is no risk running along, because tlip
soundings will warn you of the limits into which you stand without danger; and in gnml
weather you may pass the night by dro|)|)ing a kedge upon these soundings, which nr,i-
nccuvre may sometimes be conveni(Mit, cither to avoid passing your port, if the wind
blows fresh at night, or That yon may not lose ground, if the land breeze is light orcitiii:,
as the current constantly runs eastward, at the mean rate of one mile per j^our. Tlie
hills or mountains of .Faruco, ^vhich rise nearly in the middle of this coast, is a point
which serves to recognize it by, and ascertain your situation.
HAVANA. — This, as noticed, is, in point of import;ince, the principal harbor ot
Cuba, and has been describetl as one of the best in the " irld, being deep enough fov
vessels of the largest class, sufficiently ca|)acious to receive a thovisand ships of war;
and so safe that vessels ride securely without cable or anchor. The entrance is h\
a channel half a mile long, so narrow tiiat only a single vessel can enter at once, and
fortified through the whole distance with platforms, works, and artillery. The mouth nt
this channel is secured by two strong castles, as exhibited in the furure beneath. That
on the eastern side, called Morro Castle, is built in the form of a triangle, fortified wiili
bastions, and mounted with forty pieces of cannon, almost level with the water, dn
the opposite side of the channel is another strong fort, called the Punta Castle, con-
nected with the Castle town, on the north. The city is situated on the western side ol
the harbor, and is surrounded by ramparts, bastions, and ditches.
f
\
Yon enter
which is a li;
bhuwiiig a re
is so narrow,
fori overtops
rivi; at a secu
(bell)!!'; ment
opposite the i
111 passing
the star')oar(
ft is stated
cliaii;i('I by w
ships to puss,
'J'lie harbo
which, as ain
eastwaril and
hill, siirinonn
Hills of .laru
tiiched. Thf
not only these
liiir can be lie
Dun Jose Del
lineated on a
S. !•:. and N.
nortiiward of
and, therefore
diliiciilt, if IK
often is i-i the
staiK'cs, the o
towing or war
on entering, t
<]uite free ; fo
son, or that o
also because a
exposed ^t<i<d a
at the dawn o
outside the M
The Morro
land breezes,
months. It i
open, and to
into tlie harlio
shallows, whi(
third of a cab
farther from
along half aca
* In approacl
than a qiinrter i
1815. The ves
S.S.W., distnr
mate of the shi]
BLUNT S AMEniCAN COAST PILOT.
339
tiip !ii(1 of the
s Sf'tllrrl, siiifl
(IK8 ovir, 1111(1
opi-r rtitimtion
is rnsy ni" mc-
s, (•(iniplcicly
II ii lu-iivy Nfa,
ixo Ncnvo, or
iili is iilso the
; !iii(l (III tlic
)',il ciitiaiicc \n
hvsv (hia;^ iirc
lul ;is (hfV arc
ct att»;iitioii to
B white honsf,
isihic, hearing
1 1 hftwceii tlif
. W. A N. jon
Mice of a iiiilt
if a mile fniin
tlip New Shn;il
f to the souili-
lied at Madrid,
[111(1 should mil
ut they are iii-
it of this |)l;icp
1(1 land hrecyps
t at aliriost any
unds to the N.
rthward, and is
nt (tuaiios tile
f the Havaiiii : I
liiue, or less, if j
tie water on it,
(I the ruiita f|p
id iiioie or ](■<<
enly pass from
ir, lipcause tlie
and in cood
ifts, which ma-
ul, if the wimi
.s light or calm,
er j^our. The
oast', is a point
?ipal harhnr of
cp enough for
ships of war;
entrance is liv
r at once, and
The mouth nf
leneath. Tliat
>, fortified wiiii
lie water. C)n
ta Castle, con-
western side of
' '■ '>'.Tv'"'iv.'',tJ
^"^mm
'Till AJui III (.'nslli , /,,/
M, (/(((/ Kal iiuici' i>J lluViuiii.
Vdu enter iiiidei under the Moi'o ("astle, sjtiiated on a lii!.'li rock, on the south end of
% whicii is a li!>litli(»u.se, (•oiiiainiiii; iclliMtiiij; lamps, which make a liriMiant a[)pe:irance,
bliuwiiii4 a revolving li^ht which may he seen twenty-live miles, past which the channel
is so narrow, 'hat you may nearly touch tlie side with a hoat-hook. The top of the
fort overtops file mast of the stoi'iicsf slii|). After entering; tlinumh this pass, you ar-
riv<; at a second, only one iiuinlred yards widr. on one side of whicii is tlie I'uiita Fort,
(hefore mentioned,) and on the oilier, Casih' lilaina. a iiitidij;i()us strong fort, directly
opposite llie city; haviim; passed these works you enter a harhor almost unrivalled.
ill passiiii^ the (irst castle, (.Morro,) yon must not come to anchor, as a reef lies off
the slarlioard hand as you enter, which is (hiiitzeroiis.
It is staled that the enlraiire to the harhor nl Havana is rappidly filling up. The
ehaiini'l l>\ wliieli ihrec-deekers formerly enn^red will now hardy p(ninit forty-four gun
ships to pu.'S.
The harhor of Havana may he distiriiinishod, at a distance, hy the I'aps of Managua,
which, as alre:idv stateil, lie on tin,' meridian ol" the entrance; Vhile the land,hoth to the
easuvard and wi'stward, is low and e(|iial, with the exception only of the Morro, or little
hill, surmounted bv the I'orlilii ations and linhthoiise. At (> lea',Mies to the eastward, the
Hills of Jaruco or Iron Hills, may hn seen. These are of moderate heif^ht, and de-
tiiched. The tallies of .Marud are about 6 leagues to the westward; and in advancing
not only these, i)ut the Hill of Cavanas, may at times he seen. [The form of the har-
hnr can lie best understood iiy refercnee to the particular plan of it, from the survey of
Don .lose Del Ilio, bv whom the position of the .Morro Castle has been determined and de-
lineated on a elnrt, published by E. k (1. W. lUiCXT.] 'I'he entrance in lies nearly
S. E. and N. W., and it is, therefore, very difficult to enter when the hree/.e is not to the
nortinvard of K. N. E. The breeze enters at about lOii. A. M., and blows till sunset;
and, tlierel'ore. it is only between the<(.' hours that yon can s;, into- the port. It is very
diliieiilt, if not impossible, to sail in when the liree/.e is from ' .. X. K. to S. E., which it
often is in the rainy season, and sometimes even In the dry sea-^^on. Under such circum-
staiiee.^, the only resource is to anchor in the .Morro .Shoal, or IJaiik, and entering by
towin" or warpim;. wh(>ii the breeze takes off. which, as already stated, is at night. As,
on cntcriiijj:, these dilficulties are to he encinintered, so, on going out, you will not be
quite free; for when the breeze comes to the .N. E., Avhich it often does in the dry sea-
son, or that of the norths, it is not only inconvenient, from the wind's being scant, but
also because a swell sets iiito tli.*: mouMi of the harbor, whicli renders thi.s operation much
exposed ^tjfifdanger. Generally speaking it is best to enter aliont mid-day, and to go out
at the dawn of day. iSlioiild the wind hn scant for getting in, it is advisable to anchor
outside the Morro, and tow or warp in at n;.<;ht.*
The Morro Bank affords anchorage «afu enough in the time of ilio ordinary winds and
land breezes, but is much exposed i.i ihe season of the norths, and in the hurricaqe
months. It is, therefore, ailvisable to anchor so as to have the mouth of the harbor
open, and to be extremely-vigilant, lesi. you slimild be surprised. To direct yourself
into the harbor, the eye may suffice, for in the channel there is no other danger than the
shallows, which stretch out from each side. That on the Morro side does not extend one
third of a cable from the .shore. To avoid the leeward shoal, it is requisite not to go
farther from the eastern shore than a cable'.s length; working your vessel so as to run
along half a cable's length from the coast on the N. E.side, the mid-channel being at about
* In approaching the Havana from the eastward, care must be taken to avoid a shoal spot, more
than a quarter of a mile from shore, and on which the ship Mariner, of Port Glaspow, grounded in
1815. The vessel drew about 17 feet of water ; and from the shoal, the Morro Castle bore about
S. S. W., distant one mile. This notice i.s given from the information of Mr. Cooper, who wtis
mate of the ship Jane of Glasgow, thea in company with the Mariner.
340
lJt.L'NT*si AMLUICAN V6\nr I'H.Ot*
H
Ihree qiuirliTH of u rahW-'N Icnu'ih. Whin oiwe abrcsist ol ilic iiiiildle of ('nstlc niiinrii
ou thf N. K., which will hv whrii you iiii- aliri' ist ol' thf N. K. (Viuit (ii sirh' ol" the city,
you inny keep away, and amlioi oitpoMrn tn the r.tsicrn part ol th»> city, at what (li«(ia?i(f
you (rhoosc. 'IMic laruOnt nhips may approach near enough to hiy a |)lank on Nlmrc.
At a short diHtaiicc without thi' .NIorro Cast! •, to the S. W., if*avrry small shoal, with
5 latlioniH over it. This bank Ih to he rfar<-il only wiicn there ix much swell un; iintl ut
other timc-t the lariieHt Hllips m;ty pass over it wiijiout toUchiii';. K>en when the watei
begins to slioaltn. you ilcud not he afraid of it, as at half a calile's Icii'^th (rom the Mor-
h), you will lie perfectly cle.ir of it. Finally, if you winh to pass in without any risk,
■end A hoat to place herself on the (.'apstan Sh.-al,* which will sf'rvi you for a mark;
then steer so as to pass outside of hf*r, and you will h«j fret! from all danger.
A respectalde KtiKh^h navi;;ator, in i;ivin;4 dirdiions for the Ihwana, has said, "On
going ill, with the wind from the eastward, koep its close to the Alorhi as possihk. So
Boon as you are within it, you may meet with flaws and variable wituls; and shotdd ynii
be oblij^tid to let ^o an atuhor. ijreat care should bc taken to shorten sail iind veer caiilc
quickly, as the ground at tiie entraut'e of the harbol- is not very pood (br holding. All
•hips lying in the chaimcl of the l..i;ootl, moor liead ant! stern. Thcrt) are two wrecks
lying rather more than 'J cables Icir^tll \viiliin the ('lUraiicc of tlu' harbor, and denoted by
buoys with small tlajjs ; the rhanncl lies between them."
.Ships of war and lart;e merchant vessels, generally warp iij) tlio harbor, and anchor oil
the sheers or irsenal, wliere there issutticiunt roouj for a grdat numbcf of ships to moor.
in from 7 to .'> fathoms.
From the Morro, or fustlo of Havana, toPunta de Ycacos, (or Yacos,) the distaiicf
is twenty leagues, and the course nearly '".'f N. From this point may be seen the i,o;il
br I'aii of Matan/.as, to the \V. .S. W. This liill, which is the norllierrimost that ymi
will descry to the eastwai'd of the Havana, lies over the bay of Mat.tn/.as, and consti-
tutes tlie grand point of departure for ships bound hence to the northward, through the
Btruit of Florida.
Pan of Matanzas to the E. S. E.
i8i.Ai\D or CllIM.
We now commence with the south coast of Cliba fi f)th Cape Maize, proceeding regu-
larly westward to Cape Antonio, including the Is^le of Pines, itc. From Cape Antonio
We continue to describe the coast eastwaid aloUg th(i north side to Havana.
The greater portion of the coasts of Cuba, are extremely foul. Those most clear :ive
the southern coasts, from (Jape Maizi; to Cape Cruz, the N. F. coast from Cape Miii/j
to Punta [Point] Maternillo, and the N. \V. eoa?il,from the Port of iAlariel to Miitiui-
zas. On the other parts are many shallows, keys, and reefs, so tluckly planted and s-i
numerous, that in many places they form barriuis, which jjrcvent access to the coast ui
the island.
The land to the south-wcstwanl of Cai)e Maize, at about half a mile from it, be<;iii-
to be high and clean, and it trends about S. \V. i W., ()A miles, forming a small bay, with
a sandy beach, named ( 'ala de Ovarado. From "this Cala or cove, the shore trends aboiit
S. S. W. 4 miles, to Punta Negra, or Point Nejra, whence it winds more to the W. .^.
W. about 4 miles more, to Punta Caleta ; i>H miles W. J S. from which, lies Point Sa-
vina-ld-Mnr, and 4 miles to the westward from the lattor," is the Port of Bairiqueri.
The ' Derrotero' says that, " From Cape Maize to Point Negra, the shore ought not
to be approached nearer than two leagues; for, as there is no inducement to approach it,
surely it would be foolish to run in upon a coast w^'^ch lies completely open to the bree-
zes, and along which there is no anchorage, although it is clear, and has no unseen dan
* The Capstan is the projecting edge of the shelf witiiin tlie Morro, at about a cable's length from
the lighthouse. A similar projection farther in, on the Bame side, is the Pastora or Shepherdesi.
ger. From I'
(list. n)ce ol .1 I
vou may am In
best bottom is
plao', several
ter. and plenty
The Cape
Punta de la (
in thi'* cape is
ing are, the ea
ble Land of :
liny water, tin
ty of lisli may
bay, thi? one n;
the anchorage
the easti'mmor
Thf Harbor
entrance; it li:
only ; it is we
into the inlerio
than a cable's
w ith from 10 t(
is, also, a reel'
those two reel'
tints narrow lo
terior points ;
Friiin l?aiti(
gnilla, from wl
I'oint .Mal-AiK
I'orf.) All llu
ly sailed alom.
Port Kseond
various bays, li
outer points th
which the wind
it, however, liu
a cable and a h
with a tree wir
this harbor, is t
is nearly in mi
You havi- th(!n
in that directioi
ward, where yo
As there is ii
))ropcr lo allov
W., the course
ward coast of t
j)assed at less t
demarkation gi
windward befor
absidutely neci
one wishing to
have mpntionet
it is necessarv I
Puerto Esco
and if, in any si
vise every e.\er
antanamo ; bee
be much more
without a pilot,
trance ; or, wh:
might be mistal
* Puerto Escoi
the entrance of i
nLLN'r'iJ AMinilCAN COAST Pll.OT.
311
it|p Uliitifa
fil" till' nly,
i:it (li.<tlii!irf
II sliiirt'.
shoiil, uiilr
uii ; iiiid lit
II (lie u^ili'i
III I lie >It)i-
iit iiiiy risk,
lor u iiiiiik ;
) said, "On
issilile. S(i
shoiihl voii
(I veer cable
[ildiiii;. All
two \vrc<ki
d«Miote(i by
1(1 aii'.'h()ruli
;i{)s tu iiiiiur.
the disiaiiiT
'CM the lidiii
)st that voii
and cniisti-
through tlio
eedinj,' resu-
lt pe Antonio
jjer. Kriiin I'oint NV^ra to llniticineii, there is no rl«k in riinninn nlim^ shore, nt the
(ii>it.iiiee ot a mile , and iilmi:.' this ji.irl, and Id the jceHaid nl the vaiimis |i(iilitN (hereon
villi ina) atii hor in the depth ni water which ^4Ults )iiii, Iniui ;<.'> to 7 rathnniH; but the,
*be<il bottom IH ill \(t I'athoiiis, where yoii will bo at ii ^ood didluiice oil' Nlioro. In this
plaee, several rivers diMliar'^e. rrniii wliieliMiii may prnvide jiiinseU' with excellent wa-
ter, and pleiitv iil' lir'-wdiid may be pioniied."
'IMie Cape HiieiKi, or ( >( oa I'oiiU id' the Kti^li-'h charts, lies to the eastward of the
I'uiita de la Caleta. oltlie Spani.sh: and it has been said by ii Mritish navigator, "With-
in this cap« is the Hay of Oeoa, in whieh tliere in anehvraye. 'I hi: marks lor anclior-
inii me, lliP easternmost point bealiiiu K. .'^. K. about one mile and a hall, wlienthe Ta-
ble Land of St. Niehohs' Mole will be in a line with the point, ^'oll Inay anchor iti
any water, ilie depths beini; iVoiii ;i') to 7 lailionis. but \(> and \^ are thi' best ; alid pleti-
ty ul (ish may be caui/hl with hook and line. Two tVcsh water rivulets rlin into this
bay, thiJ one named Kio du iMiel, or Hoiify River, lying '2 or [\ miles to the westward of
the anclu)raji;e; the otiier, whieii lieN iit-arer, is to the eastward, atid at the bottom of
the easternmost unlly. but it is generally dry, t'roni the iiiil're(|liency of rain."
Till* Harbor of Haiiii|ileri, already iiientioned, \n very small, and has a Very narrow
entrance; it has only tVoiii l.'i to 'Jo' feet id' water, and therel'ore, is fit for small vessels
only; it is well sheltered from all winds, and tlie rivulet of the same name, which runs
into the interior of the harbor, affords an opportniiilv of Wafrriii;;. There is rather mor«
t!ian a cable's lens;lh between the two other points of the entrance; but a ro<d<y reef,
with from ID to 17 feet on the edtje of it, runs out from the windward point; and tliero
IS, also, a reef runniiii; out about a ipiarter of a cable fiorii the leeward point. iJetween
these two reefs lies the entrance channel, which is only M yards wide, and continues
tliiis narrow for about a cable's leii'^th, after which it widens as yon approach tlie two in-
terior points; and the depth of the water admits of approat lii'ii;,' the shme.
Fioiu l>aiti(|ucii the coast trends about \V. S. W., (rue, for .'i miles, to I'oiiit Toitil-
giiiila, t'rom which it follows W,, true, ',] miles, to the river Vateras; S. W. 4 miles is
Point Mal-Aiio; and at 3 miles west from the latter, lies Puerto Escondido, (Hidden
Pm-f.) All the coast hetueen J{aitii|Ueri and I'ort Escondido is cleaii, and may be safe-
ly sailed aloiii; at the distance of a mile.
I'ort Kscoiidido I'oriiis an aiicliornije sheltered from ail winds; in the interior of it are
various bays, ht for all classes of vessels, but its entrance is very narrow, for between tlie
outer points there is only one cable's lenjjth ; and as each of them sends out a reef, of
which the windward one lies out a third of a cable, the ehannel is nlily ")() yards Avide ;
it, however, luckily has no windiii>!;s. and the whole lenjjth of the strait is hot more than
a cable and a half; and as to enter it, you must steer N.4;{^ W.; it iriay always be done
with a free wind, even if the breeze is at N. E. The most prudent iliode of entering
this harbor, is to order a boat to be placed on the outer point of the windward reef, which
is nearly in mid-leii!,'th of the channel, and which will serve as a mark to sail in by.
Yon hwvi' then only to brim; the ves.-el's head into the direction above iiiven, ;irul run on
in that direction, passina; close to the boat, until you have passed the inner point to lee-
ward, where you may anchor in o orb' fathoms, clay y;ronii(l.
As there is no town on this harbor, nor any profier leadinjj; marks for runninj^ in, it is
proper to allow the vessel siilhcient room to alter her course from windward to N. 43°
^\^, the course for eiiteriiij; the harbor. We therel'me recommend, althoiifih the wind-
ward coast of the entrance may be passed at half a cable's h'i);;tli. that it should not be
jiassed at less than 3 or 4; because thus, althoiicdi in lulling; to, the vessel may |)ass the
demarkation j^iven, (N. 43° W.,) yet tliCre will be room to rectify this, by luftmg to
windward before you are between the points, so as to fjaiii the proper benring, which is
absolutely necessary, as the channel cannot otherwise be passed without danger. Any
one wishiiiii; to run fart her up the harbor, instead of bringing to in the anchorage we
have mentioned, may easily do so by the eye, by towing, or even Uhder sail; but for this
it is necessary to consult a plan of the harbor.
Puerto Escondido* having no commerce, it is seldom that any vessel is bound into it;
and if, in any storm or hurricane, one is obliged to seek anchorage, we would rather ad-
vise every e.\erti()n to ho made in order to reach the next harbor to the west, named Gtl-
antanamo; because, if it be dhhcult to enter Port Escondido in good weather, it must
be much more so in storms and obscure weather ; and it will be by no means strange if,
without a pilot, or even with one, a vessel might be driven on one of the reefs of the en-
trance ; or, what is still worse, might get on the rotks at some point of the coast, which
might be mistaken for the entrance of this hurboti.
* Puerto Escondido, or Hidden Port, is well termed so, as I have been within less than a mile of
the entrance of it, and could not make it out distinctly. — A. L.
342
BLUi\T*sJ AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
GUANTANA.AIO, or CU.MHKRLAND HARBOR, a verv extensive, iind exrpllent
harl)or, lies .re than -.M le.ij^ucs to tlie ucstwiud of Ciipo .M";)i/e, and 4 Iciujiies iVoin
Puerto Esc .iido. 'i'lie coast, in the hitter (hstaiiee, Ibriiis some very small sandv
coves, and it is very clean. The entranee of (iiiaiitananio, hetween the two outer pohits,
is more than a mile broad. Tlie Derrotero says—" The east point may l)e approached
without fear, as lliere is no damper but what is visible. The coast trends lu^arlv iiortii.
about a mile and a (juarter, whence it changes to tlie N. K. to form the harbor. 'C)n tli,'
windward side of the entrance, and at aljout tiiree (juarters of a mile within the outer
pc:nt, a rocky shoal stretches from shore, upon the edije of which are from 4 to o fath-
oms of water; this shoal is rather more than a cable's leni^th broad, and may be easily
avoided by attendinj^ to the su!)se(|uent directions. On the western side there is also h
reef of rocks, but it is narrower than that on the east. To enter tins hari)or, it is neces-
sary only to place your vessel so as to pass its windward point at the distance of one or
two cable's lenj^th, and thence luff up to N. W. i)y N., on which course you must con-
tinue until the north point of the River Guantanamo, or ^ -luusta River, bears west ; you
may then change your course to N. by W., until you have tlie interior point of the
windward shore bearing east, wlien you will be cle,ir of the reef, which stretches from it.
You may next haul by the wind, and anchor where it may suit you l)est ; or, if youwisji
to run into the interior of th-i harbor, and tlie i)re;>/,e will "not allow you to lay through,
you may beat in with ih;' assistance of the lead only."
The following remarks on the Harbor of Guantanamo, were made by an officer on the
Jamaica station, in IH(ti):
" The appearance of a remarkable spot of laud, on the side of a hill, at a distance
inshore, determines the situation of Chimberland Harbor, which, if you fall in to the
westward, exactly resenddes a kite, and is totally open when it bears N. K. } E.; but if
you are far to the southward, it will either be partly or entirely hid, unless you are far
enough to the westward to bring it over the hills on that side of it."
The following directions l"or sailing in, have been given by .AJr. .1. Town, from ob-
servations made by him in 1817 :
"On ' lufmg in, you will observe, in the middle of the bav, a remarkable light yellow
(or brown and wliiie) cliff; bring tills clilf to bear about N. by W. or N. by \V. | W.,
and run in with that bearing until you open, on the eastern side, a small sandy i)oli)l,
with two huts on it. This point, called Fisherman's i'oint, cannot i)e mistaken, as there
is no other sandy point on the east side of the harbor. After you have opened Fisher-
man's Point, with the bearing above described, you may steer N. N. F., and when Fisli-
ennan's Point bears E. by S., haul up N. F. or N. F. bv F., and anchor in C or 7 faili-
oms, muddy bottom. Tlie best m uks for anchoring are, l^i.-diermin's Point .S. by F.or
S. S. E., the west head of the harbor S. W. ^ W., and the light yellow clilf \V. A 8.,
in 7 fathoms.
"On coming in froui the eastward, you may keej) in as near to the east head of the
entrance as you please, there being li) t'athoms close to it; affer passiuLT, run to the west-
ward, and bring the aforementioned bearings on, which will clear the reef that lies oil'
the point a little to the S. \V. of Fisher, nan's Point. Tiie marks for the south end of
this reef, which has heretofore been described as a single rock, are, the two huts on Fish-
erman's Point on with e icii other, bearing N. E. by E., and the point within the East
Head S. by F., West Head S. W. by \V. ^ W., entrance of \u<:usta [liver W. i S., the
yellow cliff N. W. by N. The marks lor^the north end of the reef are, the X. F. hut
about its breadth open to the northward of the S. \V. hut, bearing N. E. by E. ' E., tlie
point within the Fast Head S. ^ E., the entrance of Augusta River VV. S. W. Tli?
teef lies N. by W. and S. by F. "about 1 -V cable's length, and -20 fathoms in breadth- It
has 17 feet water on its shoalest part, 3\ fathoms within it, and o fathoms close to the
outer edge, which is about 2' cables' length from the shore.
On coining in from westwal-d, you may approach the point to a cable's length, as it is
steep to; but, from the aiii)earance of the point at a distance, .■ stranger would supixisi'
there was a reef extending from it ; at least, when you are within a quarter of a inilo.
After you are within this |)oint, haul more to the eastward, as th'Me is a (lat that extends
from the entrance of Augusta River, in a straight direction for the yellow clilf; this l!u
extends nearly one third of the distance across the harbor towards Fisherman's Poiiu;
but the sounilings to and along it are very regular.
"If the wind is olf the land, and you have to work in, your lead will be the best pilot
when standing to the westward ; but in standing to the eastward, be careful, and do not
approach the land nearer than three cables' length, as the reef already described is steep to.
"In running in, with the marks describefl, you will be within the points before you
get soundings; after which the soundings are very regular, from IH to 6 fathoms.
Augusta River is narrow at the entrance, and has only 12 or 14 feet water at about one
quarter of a mile up. You may go up the river by keeping the starboard shore on
board, or go into a large lagoon ou the larboard side.
When tl
the west w a
bearing W •
From ti
is generally
may be km
the north-v
west to the
A hares, or
other by hi
Berrac(;s.
From till
the Port ol
mile. 'J'hi
last may be
The HA
row and cm
little I'arllie
end of whi(
ward coast,
leeward sldi
channel lie.-
farther in, i
is between i
thirds of a •
pass Cape >
To take t
Estrella Ca,-
ing the sam
yon are abn
may pass, y
the bottom'
be N. i W.,
you may anc
The necef
four points,
have sufficie
are abreast (
may very ea
would be ini
sometimes b
ofgetliiig as
'JMie distal
bay, on the
to regulate i
pose, and ac
At the bot
is the most a
From St. ,
anchorages (
on this coas
11 miles disi
leagues off.
Fortv mill
the Peak of
this part of f
Jago, and yi
or even less
seems more
tance from t
leagues to tli
and reefs wit
the edge of tl
Twelve-leagi
N. W. direct
BLU.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
343
;ii)(l excellent
Icai^iies iVdin
V small samly
J outfipoinls,
)e approacheci
; iieaily iioitli.
I'nor. On il],'
iihiii the oui'T
iin 4 t() 5 t'alli-
niny l)e easily
there is also h
lor, it is neci's-
aiiee of one nr
voii must con-
ears west ; you
r point of the
•etches from it.
or, if you wi-.li
o lay throu;4h,
n officer on the
II, at a distance
u fall in to the
K. { E.; hut if
less you are t';ii-
Town, frou^ ob-
ble lisilit yellow
N. hy \V. h W.,
i:\ll sandy puiut,
stakeii, as there
opened Fisher-
and when Fisli-
)r in Ci or 7 fath-
'oiiit S. I)V E.or
w cliir \v. h .s.,
ast bead of the
■un to the west-
-ef thtt lies off
le south end of
•o huts on l''i>!i-
ithin the \v.\^l
>r W. h S., the
the N. E. hilt
.by E.;'-E.,lhe
V. S. W. Th-
in breadth. It
)ins close to the
s length, as it is
would suppose
larter of a mile,
flat that exteiuis
w cliff; this l!nt
leriuan's PoIik;
)e the best pilot
eful, aiul do not
ribedissteepto.
nints before you
fathoms.
Iter at about one
rboard shore on
the
jf the harb
rh
\h
C,
?. entrai
the westward of the liarbor and the :\[orro Castle of St. .Tai^o de Cuba will be in a line,
bearing \^ • \ N-i i<'id the outermosi land to the eastwaid E. X. E.
From Guantanamo to Point Berracos, the coast trends nearly true west. 2fi miles ; it
is generally clean, and you may nin alonsjit at a mile from the shore. Point Hcrracos
riiav be known by a mono or hill whicli rises on it. From this point the coast bends to
the north-westward, ami forms the Pay of Cabo Paxa, ( Low Cape.) whence it trends
west to the Hivcr luiiijiua. The s|)a('e between Cajie Paxa and lurai;tia is named los
Altari's, or the Altars, because the coa'<t forms three beachy bays, separated from each
other by high scarped mounts. 'J'lje Kiver hiragua is 10 miles distant from Point
Bevracos.
From the River Iiiragna the coast continues nearly west, 10 miles, to the entrance of
(he Port of St. .lago de Cuba ; it is all clean, and may be run along at the distance of a
mile, 'i'he Rivers De Satdineroand T)e .^cpiadores disembogue upon it; and near this
last may be seen some small houses, inhabited by water-carriers.
The llAKHOR of ST. .lACO DE CLT5A is very good; but the entrance being nar-
row and crooked, is difhcult lo take. On the east point stands the Morro ( astle, and a
little farther in Estrella (St;ir) Castle, wliich is separated from the IMorro by a bay, at the
end of which is another small (ort or btittery. A rocky shoal runs out from the wind-
ward coast, which extends otU about 2^ cables' length from the Mo<ro I'oint ; and, on the
leeward side, another shoal runs out, about a cable's length south of the point. The
channel lies between these two shoals. At its entrance is a cable's length in width, and
farther in, is reduced by about a third of a cable ; so tliat, when abreast of the bay, which
is between the Morro and Estrella Castles, which is the narrowest i)art, it is only two
thirds of a cable in width; and from this it continues, with the same width, until you
pass Cape Smith, wlien the harbor begins to ojien.
To take this port you ought to sail half a league or two miles off the shore, until the
Estrella Castle bears N. E., when, placing the vessel's prow in that direction, and steer-
ing the same course, you will enter the channel formed by the reefs; but, so soon as
you are abreast of the Morro Point, within a (piarter of a eidile's length of which you
may pass, you may begin to keep away; so that, when up with the battery, which is at
the bottom of the bay, between the Morro and Estrella Castles, the vessel's head shall
be N. 1 W.. which course it is necessary to follow until you are past Cape Smith, when
you may anchor.
The necessity you are under (from the crookedness of the entrance) of keeping away
four points, viz. from N. E. to N., renders it almost needful that a large vessel should
have sufficient space to make the turn in. To this end we advi-e that, so soon as you
are abreast of the Morro Point, you ought to begin to keep away; for without this, you
may very easily get ashore at the Estrella Castle. It must here be eniarked, that it
would be imjiroperto keep the vessel's prow away to the north at once, though it may
sometimes be done under favorable circuiustan(;es ; for, by doing this, you incur a risk
of getting ashore on the corner of the leeward reef.
'J'he distance between the Morro J'oint and abreast of the battery, at the bottom of the
bay, on the cast, is one cable's lengtli ; with the knowledge of tliis, the Pilot will know
to regulate the steerage, and trim the sails, A'c., as may be necessary to gain his pur-
pose, and according to the facility with which the vessel can be worked.
At the bottom of this harbor, on the N. E., is the city of St. Jago, or of Cuba, which
is the ino.st ancient city in the island.
From St. Jago de Cuba, tlie coast continues to the west, forming various bays, with
anchorages of little importance, the knowledge of w hich is alone usel'ul to coasters. Up-
on this coast are the high Copper Mountains, (Sierras del Cobre,) which are about
11 miles distant from St. .lago. In clear weather these mountains have been seen 33
leagues off.
Forty miles W. by S- from St. .Tago de Cuba rises another very high mountain, named
the Peak of Tarquino, whicli is an excellent landmark. Cape Cruz is the last place on
this part of tlie island, where the coast is clean. It lies more than 30 leagues from St.
Jago, and you may rim along the whoh; intermediate coast at the distance of a league,
or even less; but, as there is no motive to induce one to approximate it so much, it
seems more advisable for those bound to the westward to run along at 2 or 3 leagues di.s-
tance from the shore. At Cape de Cruz commences a White Bank, which extends 60
leagues to the north-westward, and terminates at Trinidad. Upon this bank are keys
and reefs without number, which form channels of more or less width. Of the keys on
the edge of the bank, the principal are those called the Cayosde las Doce Leguas, or the
Twelve-league Keys, the whole range of which extend not less than 20 leagues in a W.
N. W. direction.
344
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
■ ti
ak
the Doce L
; Kcvi
k1 be
[\ mile
the southward of Cr
To coast
Cruz, steer W. N. W. '^ W., with which coui'se you will run alous the edge of tlie bank ;
and, having run 1'2\ miles in this direction, alter your course to N. W. | N., with which
you will enter upon the bank in 4') lathoms, on sand and rocks; keep this course tor ,i:;
miles, when, with the edge insight, you will leave it in nearly 50 lathoms. C^otUinuinu
the same course 17 miles more, you will a,.iin find 41J Cathoms, or less, and soon after-
wards will see Livisa Key to the N. N. E., and ahead will be seen the eastern head of
the Doce Leguas Keys.
Having recognized these two points, you must run along on the bank, biit without get-
ting along into less than 4 fathoms, until you find yourself 3 miles to the soutli of the
eastern head, and in 7 fathoms water, over a bottom of sanil : you iriust then run W. hy
N. With this course you will shortly run off the bank, and may coast along the Dcfe
Leguas Keys, at the distance of a league, without any fear; and having run 211 miles,
steer W. N. W. 18', miles, and you will then have the Boca de CVaballones (or mouth
of the Caballones Channel) open; and it may be easily known, as it is broader than any
other to the eastward, and because the S. and E. point of its entrance is very low, anil
the edges at the water of Soboruco Rock.
Having ascertained your situation from seeing this Boca or Channel, you may con-
tinue coasting along tii(> keys, at the distance of three mi!ea, continuing on the piecedini;
course; and having run "31 miles, you will see to the northward a great opening foriufid
by the keys, whidi is the Boca Crande ; passing by it, pursue the same course, keepins;
the Cineo Balas, or Five Balls" Keys, in sight, at the distance of 2 leagues, and uotiti"
that a reef extends 3 miles to the S. \V. of Key iJrcton. The latter is the westernmost
of the Doce Leguas Keys, nearly in a line between Key JJreton and Puerto Casihia.
On the main of Cuba, is the Placer de la Paz, a sand-bank, having on its eastern part
good anchorage, and no where less than 14 fathoms, on sand and shells.
ADMONITIONS. — If night comes on, when you are in the vicinity of Cape de Cniz,
or to the south of it, as assume<l in the preceding directions, you must steer W. i S. for
14 miles, and thence N. AV. y W. to keep com])letely free of the Doce Leguas Kevs,
continue this course till daylight, changing it afterwards so as to niiike and recognize
these keys, and thus include yourself in the route already recommended.
Should night overtake you in the traverse between Cape de Cruz and the Eastern
Head, when it might suit you to anchor on the bank, you may do so on any part of it.
observing only that the edges of the banks are rocky, and that to get clean ground, you
ought to run in upon it into 'JO, or even 10 fathoms, on sand.
If night falls when you are coasting along the Doce Leguas Keys, as already directed,
steer true West until you consider yourself from 3 to 3,1 leagues from them, and even
then continue the same course, considering that hereabout the current sets N. E. and S.
W. and, if the tide happens to set in, it is very possible to got aground on the reef; hence
no precaution ought to be omitted which similar cases require.
If when in sight of the Canal de Caballones, you wish to anchor in its mouth, from a
case of emergency, you can do so without getting into less than 3 fathoms, on sand ; and.
in case of being unable to continue your course to the soutli of the keys, }ou can shape
^•our course so as to descry the land of Cuba, passing between the Bergantin and Manuel
Gomez Keys, in 12 fathoms, on clay ; following afterwards to the north, to make the Aniia
Maria Keys, and giving a berth to the shoal of Y'agua, which you leave to larboard, and
to some heads which are to the east of it, and wliich should be left to starboard. Havin,-
seen the last keys, and placed yourseh" about a league from them, you umst steer for the
coast; or act as directed in the instructions for this interior navigation.
MANZANILLO. — The reef, which extends two miles off Cape Cruz, can be passeJ
within fifty yards, in 3 fathoms water. This reef is very steep. As soon as you havp
passed the reef, haul in for the land : you will then have 2 ', fathoms water within one li;ili !
a mile of the beach. The first ])oint from the cape is called Point Calrado ; this capi
lies N. E. 6 miles from Cape ("riiz. The ancliorage is good from the cape to Man- .
zanillo in the sloop channel. In passing Point Calrado, you will have 3 fathoms: n-
soon as you have passed the point, you will have from 8 (o 10. This point shonld he
passed within one half a mile. Three fourths of a mile from Point Calrado, in a N.
W. direction, hes a shoal ; it extends about 3 miles in the same direction. Six miles
from Point Calrado, in a N. E. by E. direction, is Point Balona; this point has a
shoal extending off from it, in a N. W, direction, H mile. Three miles N. W. from
Point Balona, lies what the Pilots call the Balona Shoal; tiie shoal extends N. W. 2\
miles. Three miles from Point Balona, in a N. E. direction, lies a small key, called by
the Pilots, Mona Key ; this key lies close to the main land, and cannot be seen as a key
in p&ssing along in the channel. The shoal water extends off this key about a mile. Two
miles distant, in a N. W. direction, is what the Pilots call the Mona Shoal ; between
there ere
about the i
bv the pile
\V. by S.
of the Swa
N. W. L
75 miles,
zanilla.
A pilot <
zanilla, and
The Cit;
ground, ab
rather mori
south of it.
it is three s
a half; and
River Guar
extending f
eastwarrl of
Directioi
ready been
look out, ar
tinue the N
From this s
the Pan de
of Bonao, w
igation the 1
leading inar
very small k
sea upon it,
Key Blanco
the western!
The placi
Puga and B
less, from th
have 6 fatho
chor in 4 fat
the approac
On the ro
has the part
Grande. B
fi'rande may
and it may e
Key Grande
quently hap
cr, if he doe
recognizes t
will afterwai
run N. N. \
and, enterin
sees proper.
The key c
and half a le
there is and
rnore or less
in general, a
tent of bead
ing, howeve
clean.
The Co
The coast
leagues, fori
mangroves,
water in it, y
are brought
west of Pass;
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT,
345
iward of Cape de
•(ig(! of the bank ;
I N., with which
his course for 2']
tiis. C'oiiiinuini:
s, and sonn afiei-
; eastern licad of
but without fjet-
tlu> soutli of tlie
t then run W. hy
;t along the DcfV
ng run 21^ miles,
illones (or mouth
broader than any
; is very low, anii
el, you may con-
on the pjecedinj
it opening formed
e course, keepins^
igues, and iiutin;;
? tlie westernmost
d Puerto Casiida.
)n its eastern paii
s.
yof Capede Cruz,
t steer W.-JS.for
>ce Leguas Keys,
ke and recognize
ed.
z and the Eastern
on any part of it.
[ilean ground, ycni
s ah'eady directed,
n them, and even
sets N. E. and S.
jn the reef: hence
is mouth, from a
ms, on sand; and,
ys, ;, ou can shape
an tin and Manuel
to make the Anna
e to larboard, and
u'lioard. Havin.'
umst steer fortlip
uz, can be pnsspii
soon as you have
ter within one iiali
alrado ; this capf
lu' cape to Man-
ave :i fathoms; a<
> point shoulcl be
( 'alrado, in a N.
■(•lion. Six miles
; this point has a
niies N. W. froiu
extends N. W. 'Jl
nail key, called hy
>t be seen as a key
bout a mile. Two
a Shoal ; between
,:4
t'
there are 6 fathoms. Back of the Mona Key is Lime River, being the first (Vesh wafer
nbout the cape. N. by E. 7 miles, as estimated by the pilots, lie two small keys, caller!
bv the pilots Svago. N. 4 miles from Swago lie a group of keys, tending E. by N. and
\V. by .S. 4 miles, called Sloop Channel Keys. There are two shoals lying W. by N,
of the Swago Kpvs» From Sloop Channel Keys the passage is clear to Manzanijla.
N. W. by W. 7 miles from Point ]i.ilona, coniriiences the (ireat Bank, which extends
75 miles. Between this and the reef before mentioned, lies the main channel tp ]Man^
zanilla.
A pilot can most atways be found at Cape Cruvi, Tlicro are but four pilots at Man',
zanilla, and in some cases a vessel might be detained for want of one.
The City of TRINIDAD, is situated in lat. 21 • i2{', loni'. 80° 4'. It lies on high
ground, about three miles from the sea: the River (Tu:>.nr:if)0, or of Trinidad, passes
rather more than half a mile to the northward of it, and falls into the sea at a little to the
south of it. Trinidad communicates with the sea by this river, from the mouth of which
it is three short miles distant; by Puerto Casiida, from whjch it is distant two miles and
a half: and by Puerto Masio, the distance from which is 4^ miles, The mouth of the
River Guanrabo is to the north of the point of Marin Aguilar, at which the white gjoupda
extending from Cape de Cruz terminate. The harbors of Casiida and Masio are to the
eastward of this point, and to arrive at them a vessel must enter upon the white grounds,
Directions for sailing from Cape de Cruz to the neighborhood of these ports have al-
ready been given. We have only to repeat that it is always advisable to keep a good
look out, and the lead going, especially by night. Having recogni^'.ed Key Grande, con-t
tinue the N. W. course until Key Breton bears N. E. bringing it the distance of 9 miles,
From this spot a N. N W. 4 W. course, .'i^< miles, will bring you to another, from which
the Pan de Azucar, or Sugar-loaf Hill, will appear on with the most easterly of the hilla
of Bonao, which are some high ridges immediately tu the westward of it. In this nav-^
igation the keys called the Zarza and Machos will be seen from without; and when the
leading mark above given is on, you will still be in sight of the Machos, and of another
very small key, named Puga ; the latter is rendered remarkable by the breaking of the
sea upon it. and it will bear about N. ^ W. a mile distant. f>om the same spot the
Key Blanco will be seen, bearing about N. N. W. ^ W. This key is remarkable, both as
the westernmost key on the bank, and because its shore is bordered with white rocks,
The place where you ought to enter upon the White Ground is between the Keys
Puga and Blanco, to do which you must steer so as to pass about half a mile, or rather
less, from the reef of Puga, whitjh reef alwavs shows; and in the passage you will always
have 6 fathoms of water. Having passed Pniiii, you must steer N. ^ W. in order to an-
chor in 4 fathoms, sand and weed, with the south part of Key Blanco W. i S. that is, if
the approach of night or waiting for a pilot, render it necessary.
On the route between Key Grande and Key Blanco, no one need be at any loss, who
h'is the particular chirt of the navigation bptween the Rio (iuanrabo and the Boca
Grande. By it may be seen that any one -.vho wishes to enter upon the banli, by the Boca
Grande may always do so, provided his vessel does not draw more than 14 feet of water;
and it may even sometimes be convenient to run in here to anchor, under the shelter of
Key Grande or those of Cinco Balas, in case of bad weather coming on, which will ffor
quently happen, and which is much to be fcare 1 in \ugust, September, and October i
or, if he does not choose to anchor in the slielter of those keys, he rjiay run in uniil lie
recognizes the key called Rabi-horcado, which lie will leave on the larbo.ird luuid, and
will afterwards see Cayo Bargayo ; having passed to the eastward of the latter, he may
run N. N. W. without fear, being guided in running by the vessel's draught of water;
and, entering by the Machos Channel, he may run tor Masip or Puerto Cnsi|da, as he
sees proper.
The key called Blanco de Zarza lies N. by W. 8 miles from the Cayo Zarssa de fuera,
and half a league to the southward of Punta del Caney. Batween this key and the coast
there is anchorage, as there also is in various other [ilaccs her 'about, which will be found
more or less comuuidious. according to the winds and draught of the vessel. The key.*,
in general, are but little above the surface of the water, and their low shores have no . -
tent of beach ; but rocky banks stretch out to a short distance from their points ; excepts
ing, however, those which form the Mathos Channel, which within the strait are very
clean.
The Coast, from the River Jaliho7iicn, v^eshmrd to Port CosiUa, Trinidad, &r.
The coast between Point Jatibonico, and Point Passabanao, in a distance of two
leagues, forms a bay with '2\ and 3 fathoms. 'J'he shore is drowned and covered with
mangroves. At Point Jatibonico the river of the same name enters the sea. To
water in it, you must ascend the river for a league. Many cedar and Mahogany trees
are brought do n this river, and many vessels "ake in cargoes here. Three miles to the
west of Passabanao is the Estero de las Caovas (Mahogany Creek,) in which aniall craft
44
346
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
not drawiii.' above 6 feet, may find shelter from the south-east winds. After Estera He
las Coavas, at three tnilcs follows Point Msmati, on whirli tliere are some wells of tol-
erable sweet water. Point Maiiati, with Point Tolele, which lies two leagues to the
west of it, form a small hay, in tht middle of which is the mouth of the Estero Nuevo
(New Creek). Point Tolete and Point Zar/.a. 4;'r miles distant, form another bay, in which
the Estero de San Marcos, witli very little water at its entrance. (Jn the eastern part of
Point Zarza, the river (liseiid)oi;ues itsrll". By this river there is much traffic carried oti
with the town of Sancti Espiritu, wlijch is 13 leagues inland. W est of Zarza Point is
the creek of the same name, with 7 feet water, where small vessels may find shelter fnim
the south-easters, as they may also to the westward of Point Zarza, under the lee of a
veef, which runs out from the W. S. W . of it for nearly a mile, and which forms a bay
with a clayey bottom of 3 and .'!', fathoms.
A league to the west of I'oint Zarza is Point Caney, between is a small bay, with 3
and 6 fatnoms, clay and gn'ss bottom. On the west of Point Caney is the Estero (Cretk)
the same name, with 7 feet of water. 1 o the south of this point is Cayo Blanco de Zarza.
(the White Key of Zarza;) and betweeu the reef which runs out from it, and the point.
there is a good chamiel, navip;able for any vessel, which, as before said, may find good
shelter to the west of the key. iieyond Point Caney, on the west, is the Desembarcadeio
de Mangle (Mangrove Mouth.) Two leagues west of Point Caney is Point Ciego; be-
tween is a bay with from '.i to .) fathoms: in the middle of it is the River Tallabaioa.
which has very little water i'l the dry season; and that of a brook, at a very short dis-
tance to the westward of i'o'nt ('iegu, is always jjiefcrable. After Point Ciego comes
that of Yguanojo, at which is the river of tlie .'::>.iiip ii:>.mc. the water of which is excellent,
but to procure it, it Is necessnry to ascend the river (or a league. One league and a half
west from Point Yguanojo is that of Agabaina, to the eastward of which run out the
Caycos de Ticrra (Keys of the Land,) which, with Point Yguanojo, form a bay called >St.
Pedros, having from '.l\ to 6 fathoms, oii clay.
The Caycos de Tierra, with Point Agal)aina, form another small bay, having 7, 5, and
4, fathoms, on clay and sanJ. At Point Agahama is the river of the same name.
The shores from Agabama to Point (.'asilJa are drowned, and covered with mangroves
(literally watery mangrove land : ) and, from Casilda to Point Cuanrabo, they are of sand
and scarped rock. Kelative to the interior of the land, we shall only notice that the Pot-
rerillo, which is the highest point of the mountains above Trinidad, may be seen in clear
days at 21 leagues o(V, and t'.ie Sugar-loaf (Pan de Azucar) and it are excellent marks for
accurately ascertaining your position.
From Boca Grande, the reef Ibrbids entering on the bank as fiir as the Outer Zarza.
between which and the Outer Macos there is a spacious entrance, with depth for any ves-
sels. Nevertheless, if when in sight of Key Breton, and to leeward of Boca Grande, you
wish to anchor upon the bank, in order to regulate the time for making Puga and Cayo
Blanco, or for any other course, it may be done by steering towards Key Breton, uniil
the N. W. part of that key bears E. j' N. but in running thus, sound frequently, until
you have from 4 to 3 fathoms, on s 'id, when you may anchor. If the wind will not al-
low you to steer in for the anchorage directly east, and you are obliged to beat to wind-
ward, observe not to prolong the tacks to the northward longer than imtil the N. W.
part of the key bears E. S. E., or the south tack farther than until the same point oi '
the key bears N. K. by E. Between the?e bearings you may work, tack and tack, till
you reach the anchorage, in which there is a shelter from the winds from N. by E. to
~ S. W., caused by the cordon of reefs and keys which lie in these directions. All these
reefs show above water, and the outer part of them lies nearly 3 miles S. \V. from the
west part of Key Breton.
Any large vessel seeking shelter from tlie weather or any other cause upon the bank,
may enter between the outer Zarza and outer Machos, and may run over the whole of ;
the interior of the bank, there being sulficient depth for vessels of 'oy class, and forthis
the chart is the best guide.
TIDES. — We shall now terminate this part of the subject by remarking that the
tides produce streams more or less rapid, and in various directions, according to the chan-
nels which the reefs form : otit they are ot very little importance, because the greatest
rise of water, which is at the time of the new moon, is not more than a foot and a halt,
except with S. E. winds, when it sometimes rises ."l f<'et. '.
MASIO, PORT CASILDA, AND TRINIDAD.— To enter Port Masio, being r
within the bank, steer N. ? W. until the south part of Key Blanco bears W. J S., iu
which situation you will find 1 fathoms, on clay and weeds, or grass (yerba.) From
thence run N. 50° W., with which course you will run along the middle of the channel
of Masio, which is formed by a shoal extending N. W. by W. from Key- Blanco, and a
shoal, with some heads nearly even with the watn, on the land side ; and you must con-
tinue thus till you have Point Jobabo N. J W. This point may easily be kuown
t
by
q snndy beach
h and steering
house Point
tills, keep th
you may rut
tinctly, and t
trarce, lulf i
you may aiu
fruiii the lam
west point ol
Passing in
wish to aiich
in the middl
and with the
To enter I
south part of
direction is t
a*vay in this
trruice, whicl
opening, at a
until you bri
ment place tl
which runs o
bring the sou
towards tJie c
on with the v
towards these
with the prec;
which is ratlu
giving a berth
shortly afterw
You may a
clayey bottom
ria, by the no
mouths in thi
trances are da
To enter tin
without fear, (
and running o
point of Cirial
you have it wi
nas than Poin
a large vessel,
very small exi
shore of the b;
on it; and wh
Having now
ferable to Casi
it with the tra
while, on the
not more than
trade wind ; a
rabo. Port M
or remain any
From the R
at the distanc<
point of the R
Point of San .1
for a long mik
Between the
gan, Honda, Y
which do not c
them, it is nee
Along this p
reef, which stn
nut exteud froi
BLUxXT S AMElilCAX COAST PILOT.
347
,fter EstcrH de
e wells ot" lol-
leagues to the
Estero Nuevo
r b'riy, in which
eastern part ol"
'affic; carried on
Zarza Poiiit is
nd shelter IVom
Icr the lee of a
,ch forms a bay
nail bay, with 3
Estero (Cretk)
lanco (le Zarza,
, and the point,
, may find good
)esenibarcadeio
oint Ciej^o; he-
vcr Tallabatoa,
1 very short dis-
nt Ciego comes
lich is excellent,
eague and a half
ich run out the
i a bay called 8t.
having 7, 5, and
me name.
I with mangrove!!
they are of sand
ice that the Pot-
• be seen in clear
:ellent marks lor
lie Outer Zarza.
epth for any ves-
oca Grande, yon
Puga and Cayo
Ley Breton, iinlil
Vequently, until
wind will not al-
to beat to wind- ;
until the N. \V, \
le same point oi
ack and tack, till
oni N. by E. to
ions. All these
S. W. from the
e upon the bank,
ver the whole nl
lass, and for this
larking that the
-ding to thechan-
iuise the greatest
foot ami a hall,
irt Masio, bein?
ars W, I S., ill
(yerba.) From
e of the channel
»y- Blanco, and a
id you must con-
f be known by a
snn
,111(1
dy beach. You must then lulfup with the prow to tlie west point of the harbor;
^' "^' "' ' ■ ' ' ■' ' ))ast the Guard-
til
;iii(i steering N. N. W., take caie to keep a very little away until you are
house Point, that you may keep clear of the reef which rims out from it. lieing |>ast
this, kee|» the prow, ab above directed, to the west point, until iiciir the entrance, whea
vou may run up the middle of it by the eye, becauyc the edges of the slio ils show dis-
tinctly, and the eye and lead are the best guides. Having run up the middle of the en-
trarce, lulf up N. by E. until, having passed the points, and being in 4 or 3'. fathoms,
you may anchor where it suits you, being cautious solely of a clay Iiniik which nms out
from the landing place on the west shore, and the extieiuity of wiiiciiis in ono with the
west point of the port, at sciith.
Passing in for Masio you leave the Bay of Caballonas to the starl)oard ; and if you
wish to anchor in it, for shelter from the N. and S. E. winds, you may do so by keeping
in the middle between the two points which form it, and directing yourself mid-strait,
and with the prow N. E. by E., anchor when you arc in .'i',- fathoms, clay or ooze.
To enter Port CnxUda, observe the same route as ihaL given for Port iMasio, until the
south part of Key (inayo is on with the s-iuth part of thu i.iuin land of Casilda, in which
direction is the mouth or opening of .lobabo, by which you ought to enter, and keeping
asvay in this position to run in the miildie of it, the eye and lead will facilitate the en-
trance, which is 110 yards wide, with 4 fathoms of water. JJcing at the west of this
opening, at a cable's distance, steer W. S. \V.. sailing in 6, 7, and 8 fathoms, clay,
until you bring Point Casilda on with the north point of (Jayo Katones, at which mo-
ment place the prow to the westernmost part of the city of Trinidad, avoiding the reef,
which runs out S. S. W. from Gayo Guayo, and which will be jiassed so soon as you
bring the south part of this key on with the south jiart of'J'abaco. Afterwards steer
towards the easternmost pivrt of the city, until you bring the south part of Key Ratones
on with the westerntnosi part of the higVi hills of the Rio Honda, when you will steer
towards these objects until you pass the shoal Eairiedio; and following the same mark,
with the precaution of keeping a little to starboard, you will pass (;!ear of Point Casilda,
which is rather foul; and jiassing on for the interior, go to the south of Key Katones,
giving a berth to the point of it ; having passed which you may steer N. W. J W., and
shortly afterwards anchor in 3 or ,'H fathoms, on clay.
You may anchor in any part of these channels, if citciimstances require it, upon a
clayey bottom. You may also take Port Casilda, entering from the channel of Agaba-
ria, by the north of Key Guayo, or from the west of Key Blanco, and by the breaks or
mouths in this part ol the reef, as Boca Grande, the Negrilla and Mulatas; but the en-
trances are dangerous, and there are no proper leading marks.
To enter the nioulk of Guarnaho or Trinidad Jxivcr, steer outside the bank, and run in
without fear, even within a musket shct of the shore, which in this place is\ery clean;
and running on at the same distance, you will see the bay of the entrance, formed by the
point of Cirialcs to the south, and the point of the River Canas to the north ; and when
you have it well open, diicct yourself (with little sail set) so as to pass nearer Point Ca-
nas than Point Cirialcs, for it is much cleaner, Sound fi;e(|uently, however, and, if in
a large vessel, anchor immediately upon getting bottom, because the anchorage is of
very small extent. If the vessel is small, you may run in, steering towards the south
shore of the bay, keeping the prow between two sandy beaches, which are the only ones
on it; and when in 6 or 8 fatho.ns, sandy bottom, you may anchor.
Having now described this navigation, it is necessary only to add, that IMasio is pre-
ferable to Casilda, not only on account of its deeper water, and that you can sail out of
it with the trade wind, but that it is more easy to talvc, and does not require a pilot;
while, on the contrary. Port Casilda cannot be entered without one. Its anchorage is
not more than four cables' length in extent, it is very difficult to get out of it with the
trade wind ; and finally, to obtain water it is necessary to send boats to the River Gua-
rabo. Port Masio is therefore the only one which vessels intending to load or discharge,
or remain any time at Trinidad, ought to take.
From the River Guarabo the coast wesiwiid is very clean, and you may run along it
at the distance of a league. For eight long niile^ it treiid.H \V. ^l N. as far as the west
point of the River Honda ; from this it continues N. W. by W. f W. 9 miles, to the
Point of San .luan, which is well marked, as the coast afterwards trends N. by W. ^ W.
for a long mile to the River Guaiginiico.
Between the river Guarabo and the point of San Juan, the rivers Guanayara, Caba-
gan, Honda, Yaguanabo, and St. Juan, run inio the sea. In all these, coasting vessels
which do not draw more than 6 feet, sometimes airhor. To get fresh water in any ol
them, it is necessary to proceed a league up from their mouths.
Along this part of the coast the water is deej), and the bottom clean, excepting a little
reef, which stretches out between the Rivers Ilaguanabo and Sa,p Juan, and which does
uut enteud from the coast so much as half a mile. The shore is scarped, and of soboru-
348
BLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOt.
CO reck. Tlio land is mountainous or hilly, for a little to the west of San .tuan'sPoirtt
and at it coniniences ths mountains of San Jnail, or of 'JVinidad.
From the river (luaiiimico tlio roast trends 14 miles N. W. by W. to the Colorado?
t'oint, whieh is the east point of Port XH';ir.), and is so dean that it inay be run alone
at less than half a cable's leni^tli. The land is level, >yithout nlountains, and in it the
rivers Gavilan, (iavilancito* and Arimao.are met with; but they are of little importance.
The Port or Harbor of Xajjua or Jagua, is very spacious, secure at all times, and has
deep water, but its entrance is very narrow and crooked. The cast point, named Colo-
rados, and the west, Sabanilla or de la Vigia, are the exterior points of this port, and the
distance, between them is a large mile. Tile windward shire, from Point Coloradus,
trends N. \V. I N. 2 miles, to Point Pasa Caballos, whence it sweeps to the N. by ]•],
about tv'o thirds of a mile, to Point Milp.i, which is the interior eastern point of tlie
Strait. The leeward shore Of the entrance follows nearly the sanlR direction as the wind-
ward, and narrow:? the channel so much, that opposite Point Pasa Caballos it is onlv
a cable and a third in widtli, and ihns it mntinues to Point Milptt.
To enter Port Xaf:;u(t, pass Point Coloiridos at the fourth o( a cable's length ; but
shun the exterior coast to wiuiiv/ard, as a reel stretches from it, and it cannot be ap-
jiroached nearer than a mile, you run on, inward, preserving the same distance of a cpuir.
ter of a cable, unt'l you arrive at Point Pasa Caballos, when you must lull", for the pur-
pose of keeping in mid-channel, or rathei' nearer to the leeward side ; and so soon as
rtbreast of the interier points, place the vessel's head towards the S. E. point of Cayo de
C irenas. and proceed thus, in cder to avoid a shoal which lies to the northwhrd of
foint Milpa, and of which yoil will be clear when the northern point of the Key Alcatraz
bears east. When once the interior points are pacsed, you may anchor where you
please, a chart of the harboy being a sufficient guide.
The coast west of Xagua o» .higua, is all of sobcruco rock, and without any bank
or shOfii, for nearly '2l\ miles, to the point of Caleta Buena (Good Cove;) it thence
trends \V. N. W. { W. 6^ miles to the east point of Cochinos or Swine's Bay.
COCHINOS BAY is formed by the point above mentioned, and another point which
lies W. by N. from it. The last is named Punta del Padre (Father's Point.) Tiie
bay extends 13 miles to the N. N. W. The edge of its eastern coast is of soboruco
)iock, without a bank, until f,i a mt a mile from the shore, when bottom is found in l,j
fathoms, on sand and rock, diminishing the depth ri.pidly towards the coast. The west-
ern coast is a sandy beach, and sends out rt bank to a short distance, but all of it is a
i-ocky bottom. In the northern part of the bay is a landing place, which leads to the
stock farms, (Haciendas de (lanado,) but it is liirle frequented, on account of its having
Bo little bank, And the little that is having generally a bottom of sharp rocks.
point Padre is very lo\\^, with a sandy beach. S. E. from it, at the distance of 6? miles,
lies Piedras Key, which is low, and of small extent. A little to the east of the point
the bank which borders the west coast of the bay continues towards the south, and
along the edge of it is a reef, which almost joins the north part of Piedras Key. Tlie
eastern side of this reef is very steep to, and has some openings, of 3 and 4 fnthoms,
which allow a passage on to the bank. The most frequented one is that formed by the
southern extremity of the reef and Piedras Key, both because the key serves as a mark
for it, and because it has a greater depth of water than any of the others. The break
which terminates this reef ends to the westwai'd at the Lavandera (Washerwoman)
Rocks, which lie about 4 leagues W. \ N. from Piedras Key.
From Padre Point to that of Don Christoval, all the coast is broken with lagoons,
forming many keys, with groups of iVIangroves, having their roots growing in the water,
or so close to it that the water w;\shes in among them, and having no navigable clian^
ilels. In this large space is comprehended Cayo Blanco, the south side of which is a
sandy beach ; and there is fresh water, in holes, at its eastern part. On that side, at
the distance of a mile and a half from the shore, is the Lavandera Reef, which extends
two miles east and west. The west point of it lies west 15^ miles from Point Padre, and
Vvith another key, which lies to the N. W., forms the Boqueroii (Little Mouth) of Cal-
Vario, which has little depth.
The Boqueron of Calvario, with the southern extremity of Diego Perez Key, which
ties 6 miles distant from it S. W. by W., fornls the bay of Cazones.'which extends in-
land N. W. by W. for about 7 miles. At the bottom of this is Masio Key. There are
Various small channels at the bottom of the bay, formed by Masio Key, which are con
nected with lagoons, lying along its sides and at the north end of it. To the south ol'
this key is a bank of 3 or 4 fathoms, sartd and rock ; but it is of no use, there being no
communication thence to the main land of Cuba. At the distance of more than a mil' '
and a half to the east from the south point of Diego Perez Key, a reef begins which,
stretching out with a turn to the 8. E., unites with the eastern part of the Jardinellos,
iand is steep to. Between the same point of Diego Perez and the comineacemeat of th:
»
s
reef, there
short distf
other char
for it, and
S. W. ij
erninost p
chain of I
Cuba, at 1
The south
for vessels
water, and
over them,
keys abovr
Jardines H
From P
western F;
form a |ias
Christoval
Don Ch
coast, whi
lies at the
along this
the south (
is a passage
and the we:
sels which
N. \V. a
tahambre, i
the coast ti
to form the
7 leagues.
15,'r miles d
and swam I
Lake, whit
Guines, Gi
as well as i
the keys in
on clay.
To the >
that name, i
From this i
and a half i
From thi
in the inter
which th.H i
The Riv
that name,
Ar found, s
L.ght of th(
tensive than
Cay am as
same name.
E. by S. ab
from anothi
miles S. by
is much fre
the westwa
At a shot
which the v
(or stormy)
cane month
To the so
and betweei
leading to F
about 7 mil
those keys,
BLUM' S AMER: .V COAST PILOT*
349
5an .tuan's Poirif,
0 the Colorado^
Tay be run alonjj
IIS, and in i( the
ittle impoi-tance.
11 times, and has
Int, named Colo-
bis port, and the
Point Coiorados,
1 to the N. bv E,
ern point of the
ction a3 thewiml-
'aballos it is only
lie's length ; but
it cannot be np-
listanceofa quiir.
lutf, for the pur-
; ; and so soon as
, point of Cayo de
the northwi.rd of
"the Key Alcatraz
ichor where you
without any bank
Cove :) it thence
ne's Bay.
lother point which
r's Point.) The
Eist is of soboruco
torn is found in 15
poast. The west-
but all of it is a
vhich leads to the
ount of its having
ocks.
stance of 6? miles,
! east of the point
the south, and
ledras Key. The
3 and 4 fathoms,
lat formed by the
serves a.s a iiiavk
lers. The break
(Washerwoman)
ien with lagoons,
ving in the water,
0 navigable chan-
ide of which is a
On that side, at
cf, which extends
Point Padre, and
le Mouth) of Cal-
Perez Key, which
which extends in-
Key. There are
y, which are con'
To the south of
se, there beins no
' more than a mile
•eef begins which,
of the Jardinellos,
iineacemeat oftho
rpe
f. there is a passage on to the western bank, which begins with 7 fathoms, but in
IS an-
I
short distance has only 14 feet. Four iiiiifs to tiie S. l-^. ol fiie simu' point there
other channel, with (irst .'5 faihon.s, and very soon alter only •,'. There is no good mark
for it, and the former is most tVniiiented.
S. \V. by W. a. mile and nine tenths from the Point of Dief^o I'erez, lies the south-
ernmost part of Palanra Key, al'ter which fullow in order to the N. \V. by \V., true, the
chain of keys named .Sal and Fabrica. and which, connecting with the main land of
Cuba, at Don Christoval's Point, form innumerable passages, but with very little water.
The southernmost k ys of tliis chain, named Bointo, Cacao, and Palanca, are the marks
for vessels sailing along the bank, which has no more, in many places, than 11 feet of
water, and its bottom, of fine white sand, is stnddc.l with heads of rocks, with only 6 feet
over them, but their color iiidi ales wliere they are. This passage is bounded by the
keys above mentioned, another key, Rabihorcado, to tlie south, and the edge of the
Jardines Hank.
From Palanca Key, which lies 12\ miles W. N. W., true, from Flamenco Key, the
western Fabrica Keys take a turn to N. K. by N., true, towards the main land, and they
form a passage or channel with another chain of keys, to the west of them, called Don
Christoval's.
Don Christoval's Point lies N. N. W. 2 miles from Palanca Key ; and from it the
coast, which is low and swampy, trends W. N. W. for 18,"^ miles, to a little key which
lies at the entrance of a small bay called Matahambre. The interior of the country
along this part of the coast, is firm land, and is called the Savatmas of .luan Luis. To
the south of it extends a chain of keys, which are also called .hian Luis' Keys. There
is a passage between tliem and the coast, as there is also between the east part of them
and the west part of Don Christoval's; only, however, in any of the channe's, for ves-
sels which do not draw more than 10 feet.
N. W. at the distance of H'^ miles from the little key which lies in the mouth of Ma-
tahambre, the Creat Mangrove Point and the swampy land ceases. From this point
the coast trends to the N. N. E. and N. F. for a short distance; and then to the east,
to form the Ensenada or Bay of Bioa, which extends inland, in that direction, about
7 leagues. On the north it is bounded by the Point of Mayabeque, which lies N. by W.
15.'r miles distant t'rom the Punta Gorda. T'lie shores of this bay are all of mangrove
and swampy land ; and on its north side are the branches of the Cineaga or Shallow
Lake, which the natives of the country have distinguished by the names of the rivers
Guines, Guanamon, Mora, Nueva, and Beleii, as far as Mayabeque Point. In this bay,
as well as in the whole space of sea comprehended between the coast of Batavano and
the keys in front of it, as far as the Cayamas Channel, the depth is from 3 to 4 I'athoms,
on clay.
To the N. W, and about a mile distant from the Point of iVfayabeque, is the river of
that name, in which, vessels trading to Batavano, can easily provide themselves with water.
From this river the coast trends W. | S., to the anchorage of Batavano, which is eight
and a half miles distant from it.
From this jilace tlu^ coast trends to the west thirteen miles, to Point Cayamas; btit,
in the intermediate space, lies the Point of Cagio, and the river of the same name, in
which thc^ Batavano vessels sometimes also procure water.
The River Cagio, formed by the branches of the Cienega, runs into the anchorage of
that name, iu which, at a moderate distance from the coast, from 2^ to 3 fathoms water
ai* found, sheltered from all winds by the chain of keys which lies in front of it. The
Light of the Cienega. comprehended between its mouth and the main land, is more ex-
tensive than that of Batavano or Mavabeque, and the lands around it are well cultivated.
Cayamas Point, and the chain oi" keys to the south of it, form the channel of the
same name, which has 7 feet of water ; this chairt^'of keys extends with a bend to the S.
E. by S. about eleven miles, when it forms the channel of La Hacha. w'.jich divides it
from another chain of keys, which extends from this place as far as Cruz Key, lying 13
miles S. by E. | E. from Batavano. The Canal de la Hacha has 11 feet of water, and
is much frequented by vessels trading to Batavano, when they either enter or sail out to
the westward of the Isle of Pines and Cayos de .San Felipa, (St. Philip's Keys.)
At a short distance to the westward of Cruz Key !ies another, called Redondo, under
which the vessels belonging to Batavano, secure themselves in the season when the fresh
(or stormy) south-east winds blow; that is, in the months from July till October, (hurri-
cane months,) which are much to be feared on all this coast.
To the southward of Cruz Key, at the distance of two leagues, lies Monte Key Key;
and between is a channel, with 2\ fathoms, clay. This channel is the largest of those
leading to Batavano, although care must be taken to keep clear of a spit, which runs out
about 7 miles to the S. W. of the Key; and to the heads, which are to the south of
those keys, forming the aorlh side of the channel.
350
blunt's amekican coast PII-OT.
From Cayamas Point tlie coast of Cuba trends W. hy N. ^ N., fonninjn; a regular bay,
called Ktisi'iiiida de .Majana, and wliicli terniiiiatcs to the . south, at I'uiiit Salinas, wliicli
lies 10,', miles to tlio \V. S. \V. Iioiii llin IbniH'r. In tlic iiili-nncdiato space, and near
Cayamas I'oint, is the uioulh of the ilivri- Guanima, at wliicli the Cienega ends.
S. W. { W. 12/, miles iVimi Salinas I'oint, a little point stretches outward. At a short
distance to the north of it is the I'rei k ut Savanna la Mar, which is much fre(|ucnted by
trading vessels, l""ro;n the same point the ccist continues Coriiiin}^ ti bay with Medin-
casa Point, which lies l.'j, „ miles to tiie S. W. of the former.
Between this coast and the Bank, or Middle (iround, on which stand the keys to the
northward of the Isle of Pines, th'^ depth of water is from 3 to 4 fathoms, on a bottom
of clay, except a spit with one and a half and two fathoms, which stretches out from
the southernnmst key about two leagues, to the S. W. { W. of the Guanima Keys.
The extremity of the spit lies S. / M., u't miles from Salinas Point.
The Guanima Keys are included in the croup which, to the westward, form the
Channel of La Uacha.and are situated to the .southward of the River of Guanima and
of Point Cayamas.
S. 'l E. IvJ miles fron: .Mediacasa Point, lies Dios Key, between which and that point
is the passajje for vessels tradina Innn this (|uarter to Batavano. Dios Key is low, and
of small extent ; it is detached, and the bank on which it stands turns to the eastward,
and unites with that which surrouniis the keys to the north and east of the Isle of l^ines.
It also I'orms a channel with the Indian Keys, and those of St. Philip, with from 3 to 4
fathoms depth of water.
From Mediacasa I'oint the coast trends W. by S., true, for about two leagues, after
which, following S. and S. W., it terminates at Fisga Point, Ibrming the bay of Ayani-
guas: this point lies S. W. | S., distant 10'; miles from the former.
About S. ^ K., 10'; miles from Fisga Point, lies the easternmost of the Keys of San
Felipe, from which this chain itf keys conliiaies in a westerly direction as far as the me-
ridian of (Juama Point ; between these keys and the Indian Keys, there is a passage,
with two fathoms of water; and the depth in the space of sea comprehended between
the coast and the north part of them is generally from 4 to 5 fathoms, on clay and weeds.
From Guama Point the coast f )llo\''s to the west, for about 2\ leagues, to tlie Point
and Creek of Guano, where the Bay of Cortez begins. From this place the coast runs
W. by N., true, for about two leagues, to the bottom of the said bay ; and the incon-
siderable rivers of San Juan, Martinez, and Galafre, disembogue in it.
About W. S. VV. true, at the distance of three leagues from the Point of Guano, dis-
embogues the River Cuyajuateje, to the S. E. of which, at the distance of about a mile,
begin three little keys, which, extending themselves in the turn more to the east, for
about a league, form, with the main land of Cuba, the Lagoon of Cortez, which has
about 3 fathoms of water ; but the little passes formed by the keys have not more than
7 feet. Some huts have been established on them by persons who fish for Hawksbili
Turtle, or the turtle which produces the tortoise-shell.
The southern extremity of this lagoon, which is on a parallel with the Keys of San
Felipe, and about .3 leagues distant from them, is the termination of the Bay of Cortez,
in which there are 3 and 4 fathoms water, on a grassy bottom. About two miles to the
east of the south enrl of said lagoon, begins the deep water; the edge is very steep; it
begins with 7 and 8 fathoms on a rocky bottom, and continues on so as to join the coast
close to the northward of Point Piedras.
Point Piedras lies al)out S. by W. from the Lagoon of Cortez, 7 miles distant ; the
coast, which is low, but of firm land and rocky, with spaces of sandy beach at the shore,
running nearly in the same direction.
From Point Piedras the coast, which has no bank, runs nearly S. W. by S. to the
Point Liana, distant about o miles. This point is low, and has no other marks to dis-
tinguish it than the dilVerent directions of the coast, and some huts near it, and to the
west of it there is a small sandy beach. To the S. E. a reef, which is very steep to, ex-
tends out about two cables' length.
From Liana Point the coa«t trends W. S. W. | W., and more southerly to Point. or
Cape Leones, and then again follows the first of these directions as far as Cape Cor-
rientes. All this piece of coast is of high soboruco rock, and without danger at a
stone's throw distance.
CAPE CORRIENTES ends in a low point, with a sandy beach; and to the S. W.
of it a short bank stretches off, on the edge of which are 15 fathoms; and close to the
shore there are some rocks on which the sea breaks.
From the Cape the coast trends, without any bank, N. 3° E., true, for about a league,
to Cape Cayman or the Point of Maria Gorda, and from it to the bottom of the bay, N.
40° E. The place called Maria Gorda is remarkable, being of soboruco rock, scarped,
and higher than any other part of the bay ; from it the bank again begins to run ofl' with
to the eas
offers no il
des has an
tending wi
steps, and
J-'rom 1'
los, which
nio. The
from this 1
or Deaf P
To the
rounds the
the Colora
and dimini
The froi
mixed stre
de la Sordi
and of goo
Cape Co
serve it is
weather, sc
coast, may
from a sim
A
The forr
fee, can b
bank is Di(
the S. E.
to the east(
out to the
leagues, an
or 8 on the
on sand am
der the nai
scarped at
To the
shoal watei
streaked wi
BLUNT S AMKRICAN COAST PILOT.
351
lil a rccular bay,
r Salinas, wliidi
space, anil near
iifii\ endH.
aid. At a. short
-•hl'rc(|ui'nttMl liy
bay with Medio-
the keys to the
ms, on a bottuiii
etciies out from
Guaniniu Keys.
tward, form the
)f (iuanima and
li and tliat point
Key is low, and
to the eastward,
he Isle of Fines,
with from 3 to 4
wo leagues, after
le bay of Ayani-
he Keys of San
as far as the nie-
ere is a passage,
ehended between
n clay and weeds,
aes, to the Point
:;e the coast runs
; and the incon-
t of Guano, dis-
! of about a mile,
e to the east, lor
ortez, which has
e not more than
h for Hawksbiii
the Keys of San
e Bay of Cortez,
two miles to the
is very steep; it
to join the coast
iles distant ; the
ach at the shore,
W. by S. to the
er niarks to dis-
ar it, and to the
lety steep to, ex-
lerly to Point. or
far as Cape Cor-
out danger at a
md to the S. W.
and close to the
r about a league,
m of the bay, N.
CO rock, scarped,
IS to run ofl" with
i
bad holdina; ground, the bottom being rocky; although farther to the north, and from
the intleclioii which the coast makes, the bottom is sand ; and very near the beach an
anchor may be let go in .0 fathoms, with the i)recantion of having a cable onsiiore, as the
edge of the bank is very steep. This is the only anchorage in this bav, and allords
shelter for the strong trade-winds, and S. K. winds: none of the rest of the bay has
any bank. The water met with in the lagoons of Maria (Jorda, is brackish; but the
fresh may be jjcreeived rising in buiibles in the middle of the salt, and near the bottom
of the bay, and about^d yards distant from the water's edge. With industry, and incase
of necessity, it mav be obtained in a drinkable state.
From the bottom of Corrienles I'av the coast In ihIs west, true, to the Hale
hich
ones, w
is a short piece of coast, of high soboriico rock. From this place it continues VV. S.
AV, to Holandes or Ol.indes Point. 'I'his point, which bears nearly west, 5^ leagues,
from C.'ape (Nirrienles, terminates to the westward of the bay of that name. Near and
to the east of it begins a reef, whicli extends in that direction about half a mile, but
offers no dimger, as it lies very close along the coast, and is very steep to. Point Holan-
des has an agreeable appearance, having a resend)lanie to the curtains of a wall, and ex-
tending with this figuie about two miles, beyond which it descends in a kind of falls or
steps, and the shore continues woody after passing it.
rhich is thf
thf
jf Ce
'rorn Point Holandes. or Olandes, the coast trends nearly west
njie San Antonio, or Cape Anto-
os, wlncU IS tne southernmost point ol the Iront of
nio. The westermriost point of the cape is called Pocillos. or Little Wells Point: and
from this the coast trends N. 9° K., true, three tenilis of a mile, or thereabout, to Sorda
or Deaf Point, whence the coast inclines more to the north-eastward.
To the eastward of, and near Cayuelos Point, extends (he bank, which thence sur-
rounds the cape half a mile from shore, and continues on to the northward, where it forms
the Colorados Batd*. Its depth begins with from "JO to L'o fathoms, on a rocky bottom,
and diminishes regularly towards the coast, with some spots which have a sandy bottom.
The front of Cape Antonio is of low land, very rocky, and its shore apjjcars with
mixed streaks of soi)oruco rock and sandy beach. In its wells, called those of Cueva
de la Sorda, (Deaf Woman's Cave,) and the Pocillos, (Little Wells,) water is abundant
and of good quality.
Cape Antonio, (A,) bearing N. W. i N., true, distant 5 miles.
Cape Corrientes looks very much like Cape Antonio ; and in order to ascertain it, ob-
serve it is rather level land, of moderate height; but being near it or off it, in clear
weather, some hills in Cuba, named the Sierras del Rosario, which stand toward the north
coast, may be seen, bearing nearly true north. They are the only hills that can be seen
from a similar situation, and present two summits only to the view.
A
Cape Corrientes (A) bearing N. 35° E., true, distant 4 miles.
The Isle of Pines, Jardines, and Jardinillos.
The form of the bank and reef which surround the isles or keys called the Jardines,
&c., can be best understood by reference to the chart. Towards the N. E. on this
bank is Diego Perez Key, already i;oticed, and the edge of the bank thence extends to
the S. E., forming a bight at the Megano or Sand Islet of Biscayno, whence it extends
to the easternmost key of the .lardines. From the north end of the latter, a reef stretches
out to the eastward, about a mile, and the bank extends in the same direction about 3
leagues, and nearly 2 north and south, with a depth of 15 fathoms at the edges, and 7
or 8 on the whole of it, excepting the proximity of the key, where 4 fathoms are found,
on sand and rocks. This key, as well as all those which follow to the westward, un-
der the name of .Tardinillos, which extend as far as Key Largo, are regularly high, and
scarped at the shores.
To the S. W. about 2 leagues from the easternmost key, follows the edge of the
shoal water, with a westerly direction thence, west for four leagues. It is studded or
streaked with reefs, as far as a key which lies a league to the west of Trabuco. For
352
ni-UNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
about 5} miles the Bnme fidjije forms ;i bend, ns it ai)|)roximatrs the east end of Key
Larno.
LaiLio Key, whidi extends W. S. \V. and K. N. H. 1'$^ miles, is the enstprninosf of
tVie .liirdiiies, under wiiicli natiiB are roinpreliended all those wliich follow it to the
west, as far as the Isle of l*iiii's. 'i'he smith side ot' Key liarjjo is a sandy heaeh, hor-
dered with a reef, wliicli runs out ahoiit a mile from the east end, and afterwards ap.
proaches ne.irer, so as almost to join the west end of 'he key. when.e the same reef con.
tinues, withoiU any hreak, W. hy .S. and W. by N., true, to the Hosario Oiiannel, which
is 5 leaiiups distant from Key [iarc;o. On thn very reef, and near the west point of l^ar-
go Key, there are two rocky keys, named the Ii;dlenates, distant a leasjuc from each
otlier, and they me of mi/derate heij^lit. In all the spare comprehended between the
Eastern Head of the .lardinillos and the Kosario (!iiannel, the bank which extends
alon^ to tlie south side of the keys, does not extend farther out than one or two miles.
Its edge begins with 1') and IH fathoms of water, on a rocky bottom, and the depth di-
minishes rapidly to the very reef itscll.
liosario Kfy, the west end of wliich bears north, true, from the cliannel to which it
gives name, forms a channel of .". ;md -1 lathnins of water, with another key to the west-
ward of it, named Cantiles ; but its outlet on to the interior bank, to the westward of
the Passage Keys, has not more than 10 feet of water. 'JMie opening or chatmel throush
the reel", is a tliird of a mile in width, with a depth (d .'? fathoms in the middle. It jj
8teef)at the sides, and at half a mile from its north pari there is a rock, which shows
above water. V^essels smuj.'i.'lins: into Cuba j;enerally enter and sail out by this passacf.
From the Rosario Channel the reef trends S. W. ,' W. 10 miles; then W. N. W.
J W. 19 miles, to join the east |)oint of the Isle of Pines. In tliis space are included
the keys named Abalo, the A2;uardienfes, ('ampos, iMatias, and many others which
have no names. The outer edi^e of the bank is parallel to the rtcf, and generally ex-
tends out about 12 miles, excepting opposite Abalo Key, where it runs out almost .1 miles,
at about 7 miles to the south of the kev. The least water on all this bank is 5 fathoms,
on a rocky bottom, with some scattered spots of sand.
The ISLE OF PINES, when first seen, appears mountainous or hilly, of i mode-
rate height, and the tops of its mountains very sharp. From its east point the south
coast trends S. W. J S. for H^^ miles, with sandy beacli, as far as a point, which may
be easily known, being of high soboruco rock, and having a detached rock (farallon)
very near it. From this point the coast continues, without any bank along it. for seven
miles, to another little point, which, with the former point, are the boundaries of the
piece of coast denominated Playa Larga (or Long l?each.)
From the western point of Playa Lania, the coast continues W. and W. 5"" N., true,
for 8 leagues, to Cocodrillo, (or Crocodile Point,) which is the .S. \V. point of the is|.
and; and from the latter to the cove of the same name is '.i\ miles N. W. by W. In
this cove fishing vessels sometimes take shelter, 'i'he co;.st continues N. W. for 8,'(,
miles, to Point Pedernales. All the ground between this and the west of Playa Larga
is low and rocky, with shores of soboruco rock, and may be coasted along at less thiin
half a mile. From Pedernales I'oint tlic coast bends (forming a bay) N. W. by N. v'-
miles, to Key Frances, which is the westernmost point of the island. Near the point
are found the anchorage and watering place of IMierto Frances. This little roadstead,
the bank of which extends about half a mile, with a depth of 5 fathoms, on sand, (-.nd
the shore is also a sandy beach.) is much freijueuted by vessels coming for timber, and
aft'ords shelter from winds of the N. E. and S. E. quarters.
Sierras de la Canada. La Daguilla. Caballos,
Isle of Pines, when the Mount La Daguilla bore N. 53^ W,, true, 25 miles.
Key Frances is separated from the coast by a small channel, and forms flie west point
of the deep Bay of Siguanea. From that point the coast trends to the S. E. for five
leagues, all watery or swampy, and broken into keys ; thence it turns to the N. E. up
to the Lagoon of Siguanea, which lies at the foot of the hills of the same name, and has
from 4 to 6 fathoms of water, but its entrance has not more than 9 feet ; from it branches
off a strip of water, which, in nearly an E. and W. direction, divides the island into two
parts. At the foot of the hills of Siguanea there are two filters of excellent water,
which, at a short distance from the beach, rises out of the land.
From the Lagoon ot Siguanea, the coast trends N. W. by \V. ^ W. for 10 miles, to a
I
■^•i
little point
whence tin
eriiinosi pr
Siguanea I
on a grass}
Indian Ke)
The Ind
W. from tl
The south
and 4,",^ mi
latter, ther
From th
Bare OS, am
N. E.by K
dist:ince, ai
miles distal
^ N. 5| mi
thence it I
This hill 01
north side;
and the for
of the saiiK
the Isle of
In the sai
is the hill <
coast runs .*!
miles to anc
bogues the
out, which.
From th(
the Cienega
tas Point ai
the eastern i
E. to Piedr:
distant two i
From the
mangroves ;
so, though '
From the
at two miles
passage farll
dine Keys, a
INDIAN
ly N. W. 1]
miles to the
to approxinii
a league to t
to those key
and continue
of which it I
Frances Key
found at the
most of the
as far as the
about 26 fatl
thorns. Th<
the depth d
beaches towf
This Grea
keys, which,
Perez, of th(
by the inner
with a depth
thorns, on ch
BLUNTS AMKUICA.X COAST PIl.oT,
353
east end of Key
little point whirli forrHs, to the wost, the iiioutli of tlm Hio (lt> Ion IiiiJios, (Ttulinn River,)
wliencR till' coast continiiei N. W. 7,'^ niiUs to Uufiia \ istii Point, wliicli is the tiorth-
ermMi).st jjoint of the Hay of .Si};iiaiiea, and is lO,', miles N.N. K. IVoni Key P'lanres.
Sij^uaiica Hay extends 17,^ miles N. W . and S. K., and has from '-'^ to 4 ', fathoms water,
on a grassy bottoiii ; but the passage between Key Fiances and the soiillierniiiost of the
Indian Keys, has not above .'{.', fathoms, on sandy and grassy biiitom.
The Indian Keys, separated by small ehannels, extend lliemseives to llie N. W. by
W. from the southeroinost of them, which is H miles distant from the northernmost.
The southern extremity lies N, .', W. from the point of Key Frances,')] miles distant,
and 4,",, miles, W. ^' S. from Hnenavista I'oiiit; in the ehaiinel between tliem and the
latter, there are from 4 to .'j fathoms water, on «'la; y and grassy bottom.
From the Point of IJuenavista thoroast inclines to the eastward as far as the Cove of
Bareos, and the point of that name, which terminates it to the north, and lies 4 leagues
N. E.by K.fromtiie former. From the last point the (oast trends N. N. K. ] K. to a short
dist'.mce, and afterwards E. N. E. true, to tlienortherninost (lart of the island, which lies 3J
miles distant fnirn Harros Point. From the northernmost joint the roast continues E,
^ N. 5] miles to a little point which lies to the N. E. of, and close to Nuevas River;
thence it follows E. by !?". true, about 5 miles, to the higli hill, called Ojos del Agiia,
This hill or mountain is one of the highest in the island, scarjird or precipitous on the
north side; and close to arc 3 fathoms water. Nearly in the middle, between this jioint
and the former, is the mouth of the River of Casas, which rises at the foot of the hills
of the same name, and which, together witii Nuevas River, arc the most frequintcd in
the Isle of Pines by those carrying on iraflic with Cuba.
In the same direction, from the mountain of Ojos de Agua, at the distance of 5 miles,
is the hill of Vivigagua, also pretipitous and of moderate height : from this hill the
coast runsS. E. by E. 4} miles, to .Salinas Point, and thence continues S. E. by E. T/j
miles to another point, to the north of the River (Juayabo, and between the two disem-
bogues the River of Santa Ee, which has excellent water. From the first a spit rui;s
out, which, separating about 'J miles from the coast, joins it ag.nn at ihe river.
From the last point the coast winds to the southward as far as the eastern mouth of
the Cienega. This part is named San .Juan; and in the space is comprehended Mula-
tas Point and the River Cniayabo, which disembogues close to the north of it. Fronf»
the eastern mouth of the Cienega, (which divides the island in two,) the coast trends S.
E. to Piedra Point, which lies N. by VV. true, from the east point of the Isle of Pines,
distant two miles.
From the Pay of Siguanea to Nuevas River, the shore is all watery and covered with
mangroves; and from tliis river to tliat of Santa Fe, it is firm land, continuing generally
so, though with some watery places, as far as the erst head of the island.
From the Bay of Siguanea, as far as the River Uuayabo, the coast may be run aloog^
at two miles distance, in 3 and 3,', fathoms water, on a clayey and grassy bottom; hut a
passage farther to the eastward is |)revented by the shallow bank which surrounds the Jarn
dine Keys, and is here connected witli the Isle of Pines.
INDIAN KEYS, &:c. — From Key Frances the edge of the deep water follows near-
ly N. W. 11^ miles, as far as the parallel of the southernmost Indian Keys, and at 7
miles to the west of it ; and continuing from thence to the northward and N. W., so as
to approximate the most northerly of the Indian Keys, it then exvends so as to pass about
a league to the southward of the easternmost of t!ie keys of St. Felipe, running parallel
to those keys, as far as the middle of the chain \ whence it nears them to within a mile,
and continues along them at that distance, a., far as the westerryiiost key, on the parallel
of which it runs off to join the main land of Cuba, near Point I'iedras. Generally, from
Frances Key to the parallel of the southeriimosf Indian Key, from 13 to 25 fathoms are
found at the edge of the bank ; from the last named key to the meridian of the eastern-
most of the St. Felipe Keys, from 30 to 50 fathoms ; to the sontiiward of these keys,
as far as the westernmost, y to 10 fathoms ; and between it and the main land of Cuba,
about 26 fathoms, except in the proximity of the I iKer, where it shoalens to 7 or 8 fa-
thoms. The bottom of the whole is rocky; and very soon after entering on the bank,
the depth diminishes to 5, 4, and 3 fathoms, on sand. All these keys have sandy
beaches towards the south.
This Great Bank, \Ohich we have now described from east to west, is studded with
keys, which, with the coast, and among themselves, form the outer chapnels of Diego
Perez, of the Rosario, of Siguanea, and of Coitez ; which afford a passage to Batavano,
by the inner narrows of Don Christoval, Las (lordas, Monte Rey, and of La Hacha, all
with a depth of U feet, ejccept Monte Rey or Kedoiido Key Passage, which has 2^ fa-
thoms, on c}ay.
for 10 miles, to a
45
354 bm'.nt's amkiucam ( oast rii.oT.
Remarkt on Cape Avlonio, the S. If. (f Cvln, trd (he hie of p]nt$, hy Cajtaxn
Liiiviifiiin.
At about two csiltles' len;:ili t, il,i noitliw d ulthr pitch of the Cape, vou miiv, wlifn
t}ie weiithi'r is iiutilfiatf, Ian J willi ymir Imafs. pidviii,' out, by the eye, tliK bt-nt pliuf
auiDiij: the roclvs. At about .'io \,iiils witliiii liic first Irti-s or liu>,hes, vou will pcrceivf a
space of about two acien iti rMcnt, rltar oC wood. < bi tlu- opponuc nide o( that oiieii-
iri'^, whi'ie liie wood a;;aiii comiiifiKU's, and at about 10 or ITj yards into the wood, j,)(|
will inei't with Vfry sharp I'oral rocks, auiou'^ wiilch are two wells, in cavities of the roiki,
ofabuut 7 I'cet deep. 'I'hc water ol' the norihfrnnni.t well is excellent, that of the souili-
erniUDst not so yooil but yet very pai.Ualile. There is a good rolliiiL! way I'rom iheiii to tin;
beach, i)ut boatiii'^ lar^e casks oil' is attci.ded with diHicully, Iroiu sharp rocks which lii>
under water. We (illed live oi six inmcheons at these welU uii the l-'th of August,
1817, and were not deLivcd alt (j^ether more than three hours.
There are plenty of excellent ;;ray land crabs at ( 'ape Antonio, which are quite safeio
cat, there bein^ no inanchioiieal trees hereabout: abo plenty utpigeuiiii, and utiier birilii,
some of which are likewise ex( client.
'J'liere is a ll-dicinian's hut and a turtle crawl on thesoutiierninost part of the cape, at
which yon may, in the fishing season, gcner illy find a person to point out tlie wells ; \n\[
what I hi've said will enable any person, who looks carefully, to find litem, thous;h a ptr
son may be within M or 10 yards of iheni and not perceive them, without a good look
out. Men sent for water should always have tlu.'ir shoes on, to protect their (eet IViJiii
the sharp rocks. There iii abundance 4)f .-ii'oii'.'e to be found at the cape, although His
by no means, of lirst rale (|uality. Tho fisheriiian's hut is one of the best marks fur
Cape Antonio, when comin;; from the eastward. OH" the cape about two miles out, liie
current often sets ' ery strong to the S. E. When the current sets thus, it is advisalile
for hanily working vessels to kecj) pretty close inshore, by doing which, they will avdid
the strength of the current: this, however, is to be understood as applying only to ves-
sels coming from the eastward.
Cape Corrieiites and Point Piedras, were formerly exhibited on the charts considera-
bly to the soutliward of llieir real positions; but having lost my memorandums of their
positions by my own obseivalions, 1 can only say that I think J*oint I'iedras is pliit(d
nearly eight minutes south of the truth, and Cape Corrienles between 5 and (> minutes.
Til!" coast between partakes of the same error, but Cape Antonio is .ery correct.*
18LK ()V PINKS. — The most dangerous error in the charts and tables, of the po-
I
sit
w
e
iilions of i)laces on the south side of Cuba, is that of the latitude of the Jsle of Pines,
vhich is uniformly stated as lying in 'J!" O'J' iN'., whereas the S, K. jxiint lies, by a very
jxcellent observation, taken on the ')th of August, 1(^17, in -21° 'M' ^7" N. my observa-
tion and my male's also, agreeing; exactly in making our own latitude 'Jl° 2'J' 37", and
both of us agreeing in opinion that the land was fully two minutes due north from us.
This error of latitude, and the prevalent, though most erroneous, idea lh;it the cur-
rent sets always from (he eastward towards the Channel of Yucatan, has, 1 have reasun
to believe, deceived many; as, after sighting the ( aymaiis and shajiing their course lor
Cape Antonio, (more generally for Cape Corrientes,) the easterly current, which olicn
runs very strong, causes them to make the Isle of Pines; and, finding the latitude quite
dilferent from that assigned to it, arc completely at a loss to know what land they jiavc
made, or fall into the more fatal error of supposing it Cape Antonio ; and, hauling round
the S. W. point of the Isle of Pines, get embayed among the Cayos de los Indios; and,
perhaps, are finally lost in the bay, as v, as the case with a very tine ship a few years since.
-■, — ,.. I —_ .-■ — ■ - ■ ■ ' - ■ - - - ,
* Captain .Inines Wnllace Moiifrath lias made some observations on the Capes Antonio and
Corrientes, which corroborate ihcise of Cnpiri'n lavi/isisten. Captain Rlonteath says, "In April,
1820, I measured the distance b"twcen the two rnjits by chn.nonieter. The distance pained wa*
only 28 n.'iiules of longitude. I'lie intififle of Capu Corrieii.es given in the tables, 21° 41' 30 '
N., is inco. rect, as I observed in 21" 13' N. ■vheii upwards of ihrce miles south of the cape: ii
should be, at least, 2!'^ 46' 30". On iho 12:ii "f December, 1820, by nine observations, lunar
and cbroiininetric, the longitude of Cnpe Corrienles. ns cc ipputrd by Cnpinin Montealh, appeared
to bo 84= 2D' 20"; it had previously been placed in 84° 23' 30", being 5' .50" more to 'he east. I'y
g'milar observations made on the next day, thi^ mean longitude of Cape Antonio was 84'^ 59' 8' ,
We had previously given it as 84° '/t' 30", from the Spainsh observers. Here, it will be observed,
the ditference is only]' 38": and if from 84^^ 57' """ we subtract 28', as above, the longitude of
Cape CoTJenfes. will be 84° -29' 30", which admirably verifies the preceding result of Captain
Monieath, 12;h December, 1820.
These remarks are more particularly to be regarded, because they show the inaccuracy of a Span.
ish chart of the south side of Cuba, published at Madrid, in 18il, which might otherwise be con-
sidered as the standard authority for this coast.
I nive twice r
I once when I i
for a liiimr oh
p Ciijie Antonio
I feet of the cui
tune elaji^ed, ;
count. My ii
of ii.'l knots pe
as Ins, gave V.
Mr. (»llarra">
I hid, some
Kingston, Jan
UJies, (pissen
ty. made the 1
ter al)ont l.'t h
island within il
fmue so inticci
rience.
'J'lie [sle of
exa t acconnf
part of the isl
youth side, in
IJay, at the ea^
ces.or Siguane
IJiisli Ktty ; III
.\ugust. being
shell is got.
5 'I'he houses
1 hie distance fr
j tlu'in, as the p:
many of the hi
quainted with
, being starved ti
i dogs: the latlt
lives, by eondi
Water is to I
J close to the wf
of the most wi
which a well o
beach;* it is in
unless when th
ly, in general e
all the water r
is not sulficien
in case of nece
There is ii k
and are inclose
and are tlierefo
predicament as
interesting to Ii
of the Isle of 1
feet high. Th
or break over a
neck, or, more
find a part of t
ble length, and
cabbage. I dii
cepting some n
il g thatch busl
During the r
constantly set s
• A fallen tree 1
years.
t These beans
BLUNT H ami:rica> «oast PII.OT.
P.K
y Cajtain
inw mnv, wlim
[||H t)i"*t |)l.»ie
will pfrcelvf ,1
> III tliiil (i|ieii-
llie wood, y,)ii
[•sol' tlic rticlts,
It ol' llif Nomh.
III! tlifiii to the
ocks whic'li lie
til ol' Aumist,
ire quite safe to
iiui uther biid)!,
(if tlie cape, at
t tin.' wflls ; hut
I, tluiiijili II ptr-
lilt H 1>II<I(I iudk
tJH'ir r<'i't Iroiii
S ;iitl]oii<;li II IS
lifst marks fur
o inilcM (lilt, the
s, it is advisahle
x\\vy will avdid
iiig only to ves-
harts considerii-
indunis of their
'icdras is [ihitid
and (i iiiiiiule^.
corrett.*
blfs, of i\\c po-
'. Jsle of Pities,
It lies, by a very
N. my obstrva-
1° 2'J' 37", and
Drth from us.
a that the cur-
s, I have reason
tlieir course lor
ent, which olttii
le latitude quite
land they liavc
j,haulitig ruunij
OS Indios; and,
few years since.
pes Antonio and
says, " In April,
innce jjoincd was
iil)livs210 41'3fl"
h of the cape; it
bscrvations, lunar
onlealh, appeared
u to ''if east. Bv
was 84'= 59' 8".
will be observed,
, the lonpitiide of
result of Captain
;curacyof a Span.
otherwise bo con-
f (live twice m;i(In the Tiifl of Pincx when I con blered myielf to the wesfwnrd of i't ;
oiiie wlii'ii I expected to li;ive mule ('apt! ( 'iirr.i'.iites, and a'^aiii, ulieii, li;id it not been
(or a liiiiiir observ.itioii, I mIioiiM, Iniiii the ciiiir^es sicrred, have tliiin;;lit ii^ tilireaii of
Ciijie Antonio. On the latter itccation my male and niy-iell calciil.ited ilie probable ef-
fect of the current, from the courses steered, distance run by loy;, latitude'* olmerved, and
liini! el.ip^ed, after we passiij the (ir.ind Cayman, takim; ,ilso tlie landfill made into ac*
count. .My mate, an intelligent youny; man, made the i iiireiit set .*< (i7 \\. at the rtito
of <),'l kiiott per day. -^'Ik- i ■■.iilt of my ow n calculation, perhaps noi so cantnlly worked
aN hi!t, i;ave 10. S. K. and two iind u half knots per hour, which nearly corresponds with
iMr. O'ilarra's.
I liiiJ, some time since, tlie misfortune to be upset hi a small schooner, (feloncinc; to
Kiniistoii, Jaiiiaii a, about two leayiies liom the su;iili coast of the Isle ul l*|iies : two
UJies, (pisseiiyers,) and one man were drowned ; iintl the ri'iiiamdiT ol lis, wiih ditficul-
ly. made the land, (owinn to the cnrr'Mil'.s carry iii'j; us olf shore and to the eastward,) af-
ter about l.'l hours of uneeasiu!; exertion. .\h many vessels have been cast away on this
islanil within the last lour years, and iiiaiiy more pi ib;ilily may be. while the charts con-
tinue so inaccurate, 1 subjoin the toilowiim rcmaiks, the resiiiis of my own |iaitifiil expe
n«nce.
The Isle of Pine,s is very thinly inhabited, Imt I found it very dillficult to obtain any
exa.'t account of the actual population. Most of the inliabiiants reside in the nortli
part of flic island ; indeed, so f,ir as 1 enuld liMrn, tlvre aic only three houses on tho
voiilli side, in an extent of twenty one l''ai.'iies. ( )ne of ih mi' is situated near ('alabtish
liay, at the east end of the island, and the otiuM- t-,. o neatly -J leaizues irom Puerto Fran-
ces, or Si;;uane;i I5ay. There is also a lisherman's htit on K<>y l-iinces. sometimes called
Unsh Key; but it is inhabited only about five months in the year, vi/,. from March to
Aiiv'ust, beins; the season for catching the hawk's-bill turtle, from which the tortoise
shell is got.
The bouses are very hard to find, beiir^ all cr iicealed amou'.; the trees, at a con-idera-
ble distance from the shore; and it is perfectly in vain lor a strari;;er to attempt (nidinf;
them, as the paths which lead to them are no better than cattle tracks; and there are so
many of the latter, intersectina; the woods in every din-ction. that, unless a person isac-
(piaiiited with the place, he must run much risk of losiii'; iiimsidf in the woods, and of
beini; starved to death; but he may possibly f.ili in witli some of the inhabitants or their
doi;s : the latter are very sasacious, and I have known one of tliem to save two men's
lives, by conductini; them to his master's house.
Water is to be found in some places, but in very few rjtiite fresli. There is none quite
close to the west end, e\ce|;t at i'uerto Frames, when; about 1.') yards to the westward
of the most westerly clili's in the island, a small path leafls into the woods, by following
which a well of excellent water may be found, at about lialf a mile's distaiice ftom the
beach;* it is in a hollow place, about rt or 10 feet below tiie surrounding ijrnund, and,
unless when the sun is almost vertical, is little alVected by its beams ; and is. (onserpient-
ly, in s^eneriil extremely cool and relVeshiii^. Casks cannot be rolled from iho well, but
all the water must be carried by men in small ( asks, buckets, or deiiii- Johns. There
is not sulficienf water to supply a vessid of any size; but it m;iy ainird seasonable relief
in case of necessity, and I dare say supply two puncheon.^ in 6 or H hours.
There is a kind of small beans, which inrrow upon a species of vine alona; the pround,
and are inclosed in a rousjh pod; they are sweet to the taste, but extremely poisonous,
and are therefore to be avoided. f To persons who may iiiitortiinatidy Ix' in the same
predicament as [ was, thtit is, destitute of food or the means of procurina; it, it may be
iHteresting to know thiit the thatch-tree, a species of palmetto, jjrows on the south coast
of the Isle of I'ines, in the most arid jilaces, ami is sometimes, tis far ;is I can judge, 60
feet hijjh. This tree when youna;. alVonls a wholesome and not unpalatable food. Cut
or break over a thatch tree, of 7 or H feet in height, and tearing down the haves in the
neck, or, more properly speakinir, at the junction of the leaves to tlie trunk, you will
find a part of the inside, about as thick as a man's wrist, very white, and of considera-
ble length, and which tastes like something belwcen a Swedish turnip and the common
cabbage. I did not know this when I remained live days without any tiling to eat, ex-
cepting sotrie raw shell fish ; and for four days out of the five, we were constantly pass-
it g thatch bushes.
D
uring
the
nine (
constantly set strongly to the
lays I remained on the south side of the Isle of Pines, the current
eastward. The whole coast from the east end of the island
• A fallen tree lies across the path half way to tKe we!', and may probably remain there for many
years.
t These beans grow on open spots near the shore.
356
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOt.
mi
to the S. W. point, is bold, dose to ; but olT the S. \V. point, and bctweeh that and
Puerto Friuices, dangerous reel's e.Mend out to sea, to a considerable distance.
I regretted much that the loss of my instruments did not permit me to renew my
observations for latitude on sliorn : but the day before the vessel upset I had a good
observation, corroborative of that of the 9th August, 1817. 1 am, therefore, certain that
the latitude is incorrect in all charts J have seen.
The Rio de Sante Fe is e;' the north sid(! of the island ; on the south side there are
no rivers, unless it may be possible some small ones tnay empty themselves into some
of the eslcros, or salt lagoons. We waded across all those that we met with, exceptinj;
one, near their junction with tht; sea. There are one or two other rivers on the ftortii
side, but that oi' Sante Fe is the only one that has two fathoms of water at its entrance;
though some have much more than that depth inside, but with bars at their entrances.
There is some mahogany and plenty of lignum-vittc in the islahd ; also, I believe, very
fine lancewood.
In Puerto Frances, or Siguanca Bay, I am of opinion tliat, with good ground-tackle,
a vessel m;iy ride out almost any gale : . o far, however, as T could judge from its ap-
pearance from the shore ; and shelter may be found under the lee of the reefs. A Spanish
fislierniaii informed me that it was a much better place than it was generally thouglitto
be, and had clean ground, bottom of tine white sand all over, within the reels, with from
3 to 3j and 4 fathoms.
On a|)proacliing the Isle of Pines from the southward, the first objects you will dis-
cover are three! very remark.'ble peaked hills or mountains, on what are called the Sier-
ras de St. Pedro. The land appears extremely arid and barren. The greater part of it
Dn the south side is covered witli wood, auiong which, however, many cattle and pigs
find pasturage.
Between the Isle of Pines and Batavano, there is a great number of keys with shoal
water between them. Among the roots of the mangrove-trees on them, are many atid
excelleni cray-fish.
The Spanish master of a schooner toh' me that he had entered among the Jardines,
and went quite through, carrying not less than 7 fathoms ; and J ain disposed to believe
him ; only I consider its iMitrauce must be much narrower than what we found the deep
water between the Bntavano and the Isle of Pine's Keys; as, from the deck of a schoo-
ner of about forty tons, we could not, when in mid-cliannel, see both at the same time.
In the neigliborliood of it are immense (|uanlitics of the Palmetto Real, or cabbage tree.
JARDINKS. — In all the .lardincs excellent fresli water may be found, by digging a
few inches deep in tlie sand, at a very short distance from the sea, according to my infor-
mation, " not more than half a yard :" while in the Cayos de San Felipe, to the westw.ird
of the Isle of Pines, no fresh water can be procured. On the Jardines are also plenty
of thatch-trees. Some of the Spaiiisli fisherman have remained six or seven days at a
time on one of the Jardines, living upon the heart of the thatch-tree, and upon the water
got by digging, as before desciibed.
7'hc Norlh West, Const of Cuba, from Cape Antonio to Point Ycacos and Matanzas.
Having already given the descriptiori of Cape Antonio, &c. from the Derrotero and
the notes of Captain Livingston, we shall here only notice that the capfe has since been
described as a low sandy point, with a Hag-staff upon it, and several huts. From Cape
Antonio the coast sweeps to the N. E. and thence to the E. and E. N. E. in a broken
and variegated form, which can be best understood by reference to the cliart. Witiidiit
this coast, to the W., \V. N. W. and N. is the extensive bank and reef called those of
the Colorados, after described, which are naturally divided, and ought, therefore, to be
distinguisiied by dilferent names, that is to say, the Antonio IJaid; and Colorados.
Following the (.'olorados, to the East, are the Banks and Reefs of Isabella, which
terminate at the entrance of the harbor called Bahia Honda, in longitude 83° 7'. A ton
near approach here is very dangerous, as the reefs are generally very steep, and the
current from the gulf sets along them mostly from the N. W. to W. and S. W. whence,
it sweeps alontr the edge of the bank, near the shore, around Cajje Antonio, and thence
eastward towards Cape Corrientes, &c.
The Derrotero says that, "between the bank (tliat of San Antonio) and the reefs and
keys of the Colorados, there is an interior passage, for vessels of 11 or 12 feet drauglit,
but much experience is re(|uired for taking it and all vessels are recommended to |)a.<s
outside, keeping well away iVom the edge of the reef, which is very steep to ; and near't
a vessel may be entangled by eddies proceeding from the general current of the strait."*
* Mr. Finlaison says, when you are abreast of Cnpe Antonio, you will perceive the discolored
water on the hank, and should take care not to apiiroacii too near, particularly in light winds, the
edge being steep to, with generally a current setting over it.
Mr. GaU
33tn., and I
ebb nortliv
From C;
feet water t
ally round i
from 6 to 3
decrease fr
I late Mr. Ov
M that he had
M eye, and hii
II In procee
I shoal, seen
ff In the day t
:| bank ; but it
I of it. It is ii
I to the W. b
% W, when
;. yourself to 1
with such a
in a gale or
Tlie Colo
22= 19' N. a
or keys, the
and may be :
the weather 1
westward no
nel between
fathoms, but
following det
and made ou
feet water. [
and breakers
we could see
to the east of
so near us, tl
land ; ■ending
huimiiocks al
or but two or
wlien we wer
ward of Cape
The high I
; thus remarka
-. follow : the
' Tables of M;
eastward of t
the Port oft
the Gulf and
noticed in tl
sume tlie
Tables of M;
CO, or westen
are all points
frequently ha
* The flood tl
within the Islo
tThe Briiish
bottom ; they w
nif) bi'aring S. !-
It Ropms that
Anfoiiio, to the
the mast-head, I
the tops of three
t Mr. Finjaiac
f) Probably th(
tradiciory.
BLtlNT's A.MERICAX COAST PILOT.
357
ctweeh that and
itance.
e to renew my
let I had a good
'ore, certain that
h side there are
selves into some
with, exceptinj;
■rs on the nortii
at its entrance;
their entrances.
0, I believe, very
d ground-tackle,
idge from its np-
reefs. A Spanish
erally thought to
3 reel's, with hum
;cts you will dis-
B called the Sier-
greater part of it )
"tattle and pigs i
kevs with shoal
m,'are many and
■)ne; the Jardines,
isjjosed to believe
\c found the deep
deck of a schoo-
it the same time.
1, or cabbage tree,
iiid, by digging a
rding to my inloi-
, to the westward
es arc also plenty
)r seven days at a
nd uiion the water
and Matanzas.
he Derrotero and
pie has since been
nts. From Cape
N'. E. in a l)r()keii
chart. Witlidiit
?f called those of
t, therefore, to be
Colorados.
f Isabella, which
de 83° 7'. A ton
V steep, and the
id 8. \V. whence,
tonio, and thence
and the roefs and
I- lii feet draui,',lit.
iiiimended to pass
ep to ; and near it
nt of the strait.'"
ceive the discolored
in light winds, ilie
»uld
Ante
full and ch
<h
about yh
am
i it is high water at (.
3?,m., and that tlie vertical rise is 18 inrjies. The lloud se:s lo the souihwan
ebb northward. The velocity is about tlir(.'e (|uarlers of a mile in an hour.
From Cape Antonio, the bank, which appears of a wiiitish color, with only 10 or 12
feet water on it, trends north by compass, about 8 miles, wlienci; tlie edi;e turns gradu-
ally round to N. K. by N. anJ north eastward to hit. ri-J^t^', with very uneven soimdings,
from 6 to .'3 fathoms, rocks and sand. To the eastward and soutiiward, the soundings
decrease from 6 fatljoms, very gradually to the shore, ail fine sandy ground. The
late Mr. Owen, of Jamaica, said the edge of the bank is clean all along, and steep to, and
that he had run along it, at a very short distance, in a line of battle siiip, guided by the
eye, and himself keeping at the mas'-head.
In proceeding from Cape Antonio to the northward, it is requisite to be aware of a
shoal, seen in 179T, and which is represented at 14 miles \. N. \V. k \V. from the cape.f
In the day time you may safely lake the passage between this shoal and the edge of the
bank; but in the night, or in thick weather, it is better to make sure of passing outside
of it. It is also proper not to forget tin; b.nik oi'Sancho Pardo, whicJi lies about b leagues
to the \V. by N. from t,'ape Antonio, a near ajjproach to which is uimeci'ssary.
If, when at Caoc Antcnio, the w^ind comes to tlie north, it will be best to maintain
voiirself to leeward of the cape, cith(!r on short boards, or by coming to anchor ; because,
with such a wind, in place of advancing on your passage, you would probably be caught
in a gale or storm.
The Colorados Reefs and Keys are very extensive. Tlu' S. W. extremity lies in about
22° 19' N. and 84° 45' W. 'I'he whole are, in general, steep to. Ofihe principal rocks
or keys, the westernmost or Black Key shows itself above water like the hull of a ship,
and may be seen 4 miles off; the other two, Colorados or Red Keys, are not seen unless
the weather be quite calm ; ttiey have not above two feet of water on them ; and to the
westward no ground is to be found at a short diiJtaiice, or less than a mile. The chan-
nel between is half a mile wide, between the Hlack and Rvd Keys is a depth of 4
fathoms, but very toul ground, r^apt. Street, in his account of th"se rocks, gives the
following detail : " We took our departure IVom 4 or .') leagues, abreast of Cape Antonio,
and made our way good N. F. i)y \. 1-') leagues, and then I'ell u])oii the Colorados in 3
feet water. They were about me dry in several places, without any distinction of swells
and breakers ; we saw flocks of |)elicans sitting u|ion the reddish white saiul. In this place
we could see no dry land from the top-mast head, though very clear weather, but we saw
to the east of us three hummocks on Cuba; the imiermost, or bia;gesr jieariiig F. by N.
so near us, that we could see other liumiiiocks within and without these three, and low
land ; "ending away from the imiermost hummo(d\s to the southward, and likewise the
hummocks almost join with the low land between them. Ail tiiis we could see on deck,
or but two or three ratlings up: Imt the three aforesaid hummocks we raised upon decdt,
when we were about 8 or 10 leagues off our aforesaid station of 5 leagues to tlie west-
ward of Ca|ie Antonio."
The high lands of Cuba are in many places particularly luiiiked. The principal lands,
thus remarkable, in regular succession from West tf) Fast, have been enumerated as
follow : the High Lands of Hnenavista, the Coxcomb, J the Saddle Hill, D(dphin Hill,
Tables of Mariel. IVIaiden's Paps, to the southward of the Havana, Iron Hills to the
eastward of the Havana, and the Fan, or Ivoaf, or Hill of i\lataii/as, to the S. W. of
the Port of that name. The appearances of all these may i)e seen on the new chart of'
the Gulf and Windward Passages, as well as on the old chart by Mr. Romans. Those
noticed in the Derrotero, are the Hills of Rosario,§ the (Jap of Yoldal — we pre-
sume the notch in the Coxcomb ; the Pan of" Cavanas, or Dolphin Hill ; the
Tables of Mariel; the Tetas de Managua, or Maiden's Paps; the Sierra de .laru-
00, or western i)art of the Iron Hills, and the Pan of Mataii/.as. These, it is added,
are all points from which a ship's situation may be ascertained in clear weather; but it
frequently happens, in hazy weather, that they cannot be seen from sea at 5 leagues ofi'.
* The fl.iod therefore b ends witii a southerly current ; and thus it appears to continue eastward,
within the Isle of Pines, > c.
tTiie British eliijis Cln a and St. Vincent .sounded on this sbonl. and found .5 fathoms, sandy
bottom ; they were two ho rs in passing over it, but do not mention the rate of going. Capo Ante.
niri bcnring S. S. K. Uy miles distant.
It aerma that Mr Bishop was once near this bank. He says that, havinir worked from Cnpe
Antonio, to the N. N. \V. about 5 Icnenes, he had snu'idinus in l.'j fathoms. He then went up lo
the mastJiead, being the main-top-L'aliant mast of the R|i!iynx, n 2;') gun-ship, nnd frkini thence saw
, the tops of three small hills to the eastward, with Cape Antonio bearing y. S. F,. distant 5 leagues.
I t Mr. Finiaison soys, " With the Coxcomb Mountain bearing S. ^ E. you will be in Ion. 84-* W,"
§ Probably the high lands of Buenavista ; for the charts of this part arc yet inaccurate and con.
iradictory.
358
BLUAt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
BAHIA HONDA, &c.— The liarhor callnd B:iliia Honda, or Deep Rny. is situated
at the e.isieni enJ of that r.iii^e of islands and rctMs (lisiin^uisht'd hy tlie name of Isa-
bella. Its entrance, aceordin^ to the Spanish olificers, is in latitude 22° 59', long. 83='
71'. Whe.i you are belbre tliit entrance, it bears nearly south, but you cannot get in
till the sea-breeze eouies on, at about ten in the niornini;.
Bahia Honda is a spicious and well sheltered li.ubor, but the points wljich form hi
e.Ttr.uice, as well as ths interior points, are bordered with a reef and ed^e of shallow wa-
ter. The outer point, on the east or windward side, is named El Mordlo, (Little Mor
ro,) fr
oni Its presenting; a rism;
iiun
1. Fro;n this a shoal extenils tvvo thirds ol a nide
to the N. W. havini;, however, at its extremity, a depth of 5 fathoms. The outer point
on the west, is Puata Pescadores, ( Fislu'rman's Point.) from which a reef extends to
the N. N. K. about one third of a m le. The distance between the two points, which
are nearly east and west, true, from each other, is about two thirds of a mile ; but the
channel formed by the edj;es of thu shoals is only a cable and a hilf n width.*
At a third of a mile with n ihi' exterior points are t>vo others, Pniita del Cayman on
the west, and Punta del Real on the east ; and between these the breadth of the chan-
nel do:?s not exceed two cables' lenglli. Frcun Point Keal the edj^e of the bank
extends at the distance of two thirds of a cable; but from Point Cayman not more than
half a cable's length. At half a mile further in, tlie harbor opens, and you arrive olf
Pnnta del Carenero, which is on the eastern side. At a third of a mile to thesouthwr.id
of Point Carenero is an island, Key Ijarito, or Ijou'; Key,f the west point of which (I^uii-
ta di Difuntos) lies a little more to the west than Point Carenero, and it may therefore
be seen from the sea.
To enter this port, it is requisite to keep at some distance from the coast, and outside
the edges of the reefs, till you are N. ^ W . from the mouth, when you may run for it.
When near it, or at about the distance of a mile, you may perceive Point Difuntos; and
placing your vessel most carefully to S. ^' E. you may steer in that direction; as with
that course, keeping Point Difuntos open, in the mid-channel, you will run in with suf-
ficient water, It' to 6 fathoms. When abroast of Point Carenero. you will see to tiie
W. S. W. a long point on the west side of the harbor, named Punta de Mangles, or
Mangrove Point. J With this in sight you may now steer to the S. W., and when you
have arrived on a line between it and Point Difuntos, you may anchor in 7 fatiioms, up-
on clay; or, if more convenient, you may luff up to the south-eastward of Point Difun-
tos, and drop your anclior in 6 fathoms, same grounil. There is also anchorage to the
northward of Key Largo, between it and I'unta del Carenero. in G or 7 fathouis, wliith
may be found, after sailing in by the lead, along the reef on the eastern side.
The B.\Hi.\ B.\NK lies ratlier more than 5 leagues to the N. W. by N. from the
n'-.outii of Bahia Honda. It extends nearly cast and west a league in length, and is
about half a league broad. On this bank you may come to an anchor, taking care ihnt
you do not go too near the rock that lies in the middle of it. There is no water on the
rock, and when the breeze blows strong the sea breaks over it ; but on the bank are 0,
5, and 4 fathoms of water.
PUEKTO DE CABANAS, OR PORTO DE CAVANAS.— This harbor lies rnihcr
more than four leagues to the eastward of Bahia Honda. It has an extensive reef on
each side of its entrance; yet it is a line bay to sail into, having 5 and 6 farhoms at tlie
entrance, deepening to 8 and 10 within, with room enough for several hundred sail of
ship.:. The Derrotero says, you may run along the coast between Bahia Honda and
this place, at ll e (lisi;ii;(e ct two miles. Port Cavanas is a good anchorage, sheltcre
from all winds, and fit for any class ot" vessels. It may be known by a round hill, which
forms a gap or break, and upon the summit of which there is a grove of trees, and by
another hill, named the Pan of Cavanas (Dolphin Hill.) The latter descends gradually
towards the east, until it ends in low level land, which conti-nies lor a long league, un-
til it meets the table land of Mariel. In addition to these marks, you may see upon tlie
const two rows ot iiillocks, which resemble sheplicrds' huts, and from which the phiee
has derived its name. These Iiillocks lie to the eastward of Bahia Honda, and the Pan
of Cavanas :ippears as if in the middle of them.
To enter this liarhor, you ought to open the mouth well out, until you are on its me-
ridian, and that of the east part of an island (Isla Larga) which is within the harbor nn
itswe^t. Steer in S.J E. ui til past the reef of Punta Longa, on the east side, when you
* In a late description of Bahia Honda, hy a British ofliner, it is said that it may be known by a
remarkable tower and a small hut on the eastern side of the entrance, and a larpe plantation on a
lo :nd hill just on the back of it, and two small huts about IJ mile to the westward of the west point
of the entrance.
t Wood Island of the old English charts.
) Long Point of the old charts.
4
miy lufT u
touch on tl
and that to
reel extend
breadth,
of Larija 1>
PLEK'i
eastward ot
may know »
high, and f(
various whi
and is very
gua, comm
meridian ot
league, unl
guished ot
or to be sur
Tu cuter
Tables; at
tance of a c;
on which th
sel's head t
you are witl
steer in that
the same be;
see on the \
yourself at a
you please, i
of the harbo
"We only adi
quisite to be
It sometin
hia Honda, f
high, and is i
This islam
(Colon or C
name of St.
of time, cam
the respectiv
ed to the eas
the title of tl
To the nai
to European
the victims o
live to a grea
is continuall;
fui variety ol
elevations ar
forests of mi
wood, cedar,
quick-silver,
The rivers
the rain.s, tin
the plains.
The prinr
N. W., the t
of '^^ Nichol
• The wholi
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
359
ny, is situnted
p name ol' ls;i-
o')', long. 83^
cannot get in
ivliich form its
of shallow wa-
, (Little Mor-^
liinis ol a mile
lie outer point
•eel' extends to
points, which
mile ; but the
Ith.*
L'l Cayman on
h of the chan-
; of the bank
not mure thiin
you arrive olF
thesomhwriid
)f which (Pun-
may tiierefore
ist, and outside
may run for it.
; Uifuntos; and
ction ; as with
un in with sul-
will see to tiie
.le -Mangles, or
and when you
7 fathoms, iip-
jf Point Difiin-
ichorage to the
athoms, which
(ie.
N. from the
ength, and is
ikinii; care that
water on the
le bank are 0,
rhnr lies ralhcr
■n^iive reef on
aihoms at tiie
iindred sail of
lia Honda and
irasre, sheltrtP
lid hill, which
trees, anil by
:n(ls siradniiliy
ig league, iin-
see upon the
licli the place
I, and the Pan
are on its me-
tlie harhor on
side, when you
be known by a
plantation on a
if the west point
I
imv lufT up, and anchor in from 7 to 0 fathoms. Be cautious, in advancing, not to
touch on the reefs on either side; that to wind.vard extends out more tiinn half ii mile,
and that to leeward about two cables" length. At the extremity of Punta Longa the
reel extends out only two-thirds of a cable; but the channel here is only two cables in
breadth. Another reef extends to the same d. stance, northward, from the eastern point
'^ PUKirrO DEL I\l ARIEL, OPv POHT iSL\RIEL, which is 4} leagues to the
eastward of Port Cavjuias, is large, well sheltered, and lit for any c'ass of vessels. You
may know when you are to the north of it by the 'J'ables of Mariel, which are moderately
hiirh, and form very broad table lands or hills. On approaching these you will perceive
various white patches. 'J'he coast hence neiids to the eastward, towards the Havana,
and is very low. In proceeding towards the latter, you may descry the Paps of Mana-
gua, commonly called the Maiden's Paps, winch are two round hillocks, lying on the
nieridian of the port. To the westward of Mariel the coast is likewise low, for a long
league, until it rises and forms the hill of t'avanas. Farther to the west may be distin-
guished other high lands in the vicinity of Bahia Honda, and which seem to rise from,
or to be surrounded by, the water.
To Ciller Fort Marict, you have only to steer towards the western extremity of the
Tables; and having recognized it, may run in, along the windward shore, at the dis-
tance of a cable's length. 'J'his will lead clear of the reef, which borders the coast, and
on which the sea breaks. Having the mouth of the harbor well open, place your ves-
sel's head towards a miall rocky key, which lies olf the leeward point; and so soon as
you are within two thirds of a cable from it, steer S. ■' E., or what amounts to the same,
steer in that directiori, when the leeward point of the interior part of the entrance has
the same bear ng. Continue this course until you pass the round tower, which you will
see on the windward side. You may then lutt' to port, (larboard.) so as to maintain
yourself at a cable's length from the eastern shore, and you may anchor upon it, where
von please, in 8 or 10 fathoms water. If more agreeal)le, you may run into the interior
of the harbor, for which a reference to the plan of the harbor will be a sutficient guide.
We only add, that, as the narrowest part of the entrance is only 50 yards wide, it is re-
cpiisite to be very cautious on entering with a large vessel.
It sometimes happens that strangers mistake the land to the westward, and about Ba-
hia Honda, for the table land of Mariel; but it is lo be observed that the latter is not so
high, and is more regular than any land near, or to the westward of Bahia Honda.
HAYTI OR SAINT DOHIII^GO.
This island, once more called Hayti, its original name, was discovered by Colombo,
(Colon or Columbus,) in 14'J2. By Colombo it was called Hispaniola ; but giving the
name of JSt. Domingo to a city which he founded in 1494, the whole island, in process
of time, came to be so called. At length the island was divided into two parts, under
the respective governments of S|'ain and Erance, when the name of Hispaniola was limit-
ed to the eastern or Spanish portion ; and finally, the whole is now independent, under
the title of the Kepublic of Hayti.*
To the natives the climate, though hot, is healthy ; yet it is exceedingly pernicious
to Europeans, and the shore of Hayti has been the grave of thousands, who have been
the victims of its heat and moisture. Many of the inhabitants arc, nevertheless, said to
live to a great age. The thermometer in the plains rises as high as 99^^, but the country
is continually refreshed by breezes and rains, and its salubrity is increased by the beauti-
ful variety of its surface, exhibiting hills and valleys, woods and rivulets, lis highest
elevations are about 6000 feet above 'he level of the sea, and its hills are covered with
forests of mahogany, Brazil-wood, palms, elms, oak, ])ine, walnut, gayac, maple, iron-
wood, cedar, ebony, &ic. The island is said to have its mines of gold, silver, copper,
quick-silver, iron, lead, precious stones, and chrystal.
The rivers are numerous, but none are navigable, even by boats, in the dry season : in
the rains, they often rise 25 feet perpendicular, and sometimes spread destruction over
the plains.
The principal towns are, the city of Cape Haytien, formerly Cape Francois, in the
N. W., the city of St. Domingo, in the S. E., Port an Prince, Leogane, and the Mole
of ^f. Nicholas, in the west.
• The whole was united under one government, General Boyer, President, in 1822.
3G0
BLI Nt'sJ AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
i'
I
Wo commence the description of tlie shores of Ilayti with the Mona Passage and
eastern const, anil tlionce ])roct'e(l in succession with tiie southern, northern, and west-
ern coasts, as this seems to be for the mariner the most convenient mode of arrangement.
3'/te Monn Passu <j;e. anil Eastern Coast of Hay ti, from Cape Raphael to the Island Saona.
Tlie cliannel called the Moiia J*assa<ie, between Porto Rico and Hayti, is 26 leagues
in breadth, and generally clear and safe, with the exception (d" shoals in the vicinity of
the coasts of the two islands. On the N. E. side, the land of Porto Rico is low, to the
westward of the harbor of Arrecibo, until it reaches Pnnta de Pena Agujereada, (or
Point of the Holed Rock,) where a kind of dirty high land begins, which trends S. W.
rather more than a mile, to Point Brugnen, the north-westernmost point of Porto Rico.
The coast again declines in height, and forms a convex bow to Punta de Penas Blan-
cas, (Whitestone Pomt,) the north point of Aguadilla Bay.
DESECHO OR ZACHEO. — 'i'his little island, nearly covered with trees, static!?
like a beacon in the ocean, at the distance of 11,', miles W. | N. from Point St. Fran-
cisco, or Porto Rico. It appears like a green mountain, 800 or 1000 yards broad at the
base, and is so high as to be seen at 12 leagnes ort". The coast is generally clean, and
there is no danger but what may be seen.
MONA PASSAGE. — W'n found the winds generally light in this passage, and but
little current. The island of Zacheo, bearing W. by N. A N. 11 miles from Aguadilla
Bay, may be seen on a clear day (rom any part of it. It is high, and very bold. We
frequently approached it very close, without observing any danger, or getting sound-
ings near it. Off the north and south ends there are a lew rocks, but close to the shore
it is covered with sm;dl brushwood, and the landing place is on the south side.
MONA AND MOMTO.— 'I'hese isles lie nearly in the middle of the Mona Pas-
sage, towards the south.
MONA ISL AN D. — This island is nearly level, and of a moderate height. We could
not see it farther than 18 miles on a clear day. Its north-east, south-east, and south-
west sides, are bounded by a reefs quarter of a mile ott' shore. At the distance of two
miles, we ran along these sides, but saw no other danger than a reef which extends one
mile and a half otf the south point.
The S. W. point{to the northward of which is the anchorage) is sand, long and
low, with brusliwrod and small trees on it. There is a reef off this point, about a quar-
ter of a mile in length, to the westward.
We anchored here in his Majesty's ship Arachne, with the sandy point bearing S. ht
W. one mile and a half; island ol Monito, N. ^ E.; N. W- Point of Mona, (high and
blurt',) N. E. :! N.
We came to our anchorage from the northward, passing Monito to the westward
within 6 miles, l)ut had no soundings ; neither could we see broken water, or any dan-
ger between it aiul Mona. This ishmd is the resort of innumerable quantities of boo-
bies; its sides are very white, ami are inaccessible. Our anchorage was otf the sandv
bay formed l)y the S. W. point, (bearings as above meiuioned,) sandy bottom ; this,
the N. \V. side, is also bounded by a reef, about three cables' length from shore ; the
passage through it is nearly in the centre of the bay, but it is narrow, and a boat must
pick her way through. The soundings are very regular; we found 4 falhou's close to
the reef; nd there would be no danger in anchoring within a quarter of a mile of it,
bearing in mind it is open to all westerly, and from south to south-east winds.
We landed on the sandy beach, and found the west end of the island, which is low,
covered withsuiall trees, brushwood, and, at a few cleared spots, with grass; in tliclal-
ter of which were small pools of fresh v.atcr, apparently dug, but of a bad quality ; around
these we found the print of the hoofs of cattle and horses, or mules, very recently made,
as was evident by the sun not having hardened the soil. These pools offresh water were
on the south-east side of the sandy point, about one mile and a half from the landing.
We did not find any signs of habitation or inhabitants; and, excepting the before men-
tioned fresh-water pools, we saw no possibility of obtaining water. A small quantity ol
fire wood might be obtained, but with labor. The remarks on this island in the Colum-
bian Navigator are imperfect; they give the anchorage in the following bearings : Mo-
nica Island, N. by W. ; S. W. point of Mona, S. E. ; but it is not possible to bring these
bearings on.
Near the west ])oint, liowever, some vessels anchor, in order to procure grass, when
engaged in carrying cattle. The island may be seen at the distance of (> leagues.
Monito is an islet, the greatest extent of which scarcely reaches to two thirds of a ca-
ble's length: it is much lower than Mona, and in shape resembles a shoemaker's last;
on its surface no bush is seen, and it is the perpetual resort of immense numbers of boo-
by birds. The pilots of these coasts state that there is a clean and deep passage be-
tween it and Mona.
I
EASTEl
is generally
ganno, the
the land of
From Cu
leagues; at
continues tc
Cape Rai
distinguishf
called the R
be approacl
phael towari
the same na
Cape Eng
E. Thissh
ing W. by
From Ca]
is low and b
forms a bay
'J'o the sou
breadth bctw
any but sma
THE IS]
length from
to the (listar
cording to tl
end are seve
From the
of .St. Domii
(ween is in
(Andrew's j;
four league.'
eastern part i
On the we
ter from the
of St. Domii
bank of this
sand bank, tl
a mile out tc
season of the
added to whi
with violenc
priivents ves>
of striking di
To anchor
('aucedo, at
and deep, an
strefches oui
northward, ii
The city t
situated, ace
stands on tli
known by a
which forms
modious, an
the wharves.
The city i
and W., and
found in the
The more m
thatched wit
The poimlai
ciousiy cons
BLUNt'.S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
361
EASTERN COAST OF HAYTl OR OF ST. DOML\(iC).
riio eastern shore
pe En-
is point
assage, and but
iVom Aguadilla
eery bold. We
getting sound-
lose to the sliore
1 side,
the Mona Pas-
ght. We could
east, and south-
! distance of" two
ich extends one
sand, long and
It, about a quar-
It bearing S. K-
lona, (high and
0 the westwaiJ
Iter, or any dan-
lantities oC bon-
is ort' the sandy
y bottom ; this,
rom shore ; the
nd a boat must
at bonis close to
of a mile of it,
inds.
which is low,
riiss; in the iat-
Hialily ; around
recently made,
Vesb water we r?
)m the landing,
he before men-
nail quantity ol'
i in the Colum-
bearings : Mo-
e to bring these
ire grass, when
leagues.
) thirds of a ca-
aemaker's last;
umbers of boo-
lep passage be-
is generally low, but the land may be (kscriud at the distance of 10 leagues. Ca
iianiio, the easternmost jjoint, lies in hit. ld° 34.}', and long. 68° 20};'. From thi
the land of Porto Rico may, in clear weather, be seen.
From Cupe Enganno to Cape Raphael, the bearing and distance are N. \V. by W. 14
leagues; at about 3 leagues to the south-eastward of the latter the land rises, and so
continues to the cape.
Cape Raphael is ot^moderate height, and ajjijcars at a distance like an island. It is
distinguished by a conical peak island, which resembles a sugar loaf, and is commonly
called the Round Hill. The shore eastward is not only low but foul, and ought not to
be approached nearer thai? a league. At rather more than half way from Cape Ra-
phael towards Cape Enganno, is Point Macao, on the S. W. of which is a little town of
the same name.
Cape Enganno is low by the sea, and a shoal extends from it nearly 3 miles to the N.
p]. This shoal, having little water on it, must have a good berth. Cape Enganno, bear-
ing W. by S. () leagues, makes with two heads like a wedge.
From Cape Enganno the coast trends to the 8. W. and south to Point Espada, wh'ch
is low and bordered by a white shoal and reef. From this point to the S. W. the coast
forms a bay called Higuey, and a smaller one, Calamite : both are very foul, with reefs.
To the southward of the latter is the island Soati, having a ( hamiel of considerable
breadth between it and the land of Ilayti ; but it is so obstructed as to be impassable to
any but small craft.
To ike Soidhcrn Coast, of Hay li, from Soan to Cape Tiburon.
M trees, and is surrounded by a white shoal
•).-ition f)f the eastern point of this isle, ac-
At the western
THE ISLE OF SOAN, whicli lies otV'he S. E. coast of Hayti. is about 13 miles in
Ic iigth from east to west. It is coverec'
to the distaiu;e of nearly two lies, 'i I
cording to tlie S|)aiiisli observers, is lu 18° IL'', and long. 06^ olV.
eii<l are several islets on the bank.
From the S. W. extremity of Soan to Point Cauccdo, on the eastern side of the bay
of St. Domingo, the bearing and distance are W. I- N. Ki.r leagues. The coast be-
tween is in general tolerubly clean; for tliere is only one place, the Playa de Andres,
(Andrew's Reach,) which has a reef, and this stretches oiu to sea about a league ; but at
four leagues from Soan, is the little island of Santa Catalina, (St. Catharine,) the
eastern part of whicli is narrow, and tlie western foul.
On tlu! west of (-'ape Caucedo is an am horage, named La Caleta, which aflbrds shel-
U'.r from th(^ bree/e. The coast hence swee[)s to the westward, to form the Great bay
of St. IJomingo, at the i)ottom of which the river O/.ama disendjogues. On the western
bank of this river stands the city of St. Domingo. Along all the front of the bay is a
sand bank, the Estudios, having 5,6, and 8 fathoms of water, and extending about half
a mile out to sea. On this bank vessels anchor, but with some risk, especially in the
season of the souths, which raise a lieavy swell, and there is no shelter from these winds ;
added to which the coast is wild ami rocky, without any beach, and the sea breaks on it
with violence. Tlie safe anchorage is within the river, but it has a bar of rock which
prevents vessels drawing more than 13 feet from taking it ; and even these are in danger
ol' striking during tin' souths.
To anchor on tli.c .iJsltuI/os Jhoil; it is necessary to coast the windward land from Cape
Caucedo, at the distance of from three cables' length to half a mile. It is very clean
and deep, and only on the eastern |)oint of the river is there a shoal of little water : this
stretches out about two cables' length, and to keej) clear of it you must not haul to the
northward, in any der;ree, until the west point of the river bears north.
The city ol' St. Domingo, which is the metropolis of the eastern division of Hayti, is
situated, according to the late oi)scrvations, in latitude 18° 26', and long. 69° 50'. It
stands on the right or western bank of the river O/aina, the entrance to which may be
known by a great fort on that side. To the westward of this fort is a large savanna,
wjiieh forms an amphitheatre, and makes a beautiful jirospoct. The harbor is very com-
modious, and ships may lie close to the shore to take in their lading, by planks, from
the wharves.
The city is huilt on a rocky point. The streets arc at right angles, N. and S. and E.
and \V., and have footways of brick. The greatest part of the town is built of marble
found in the neighborhood, and in the style of the ancient houses of France and Italy.
The more modern houses are of clay, wliieh acquires the liardness of stone, or of wood
thatched with the leaves of the palm-tree. The cathedral is spacious and luagnificent.
The iiopulation is comptUed at more than 'JO, 000. The for' (ications have been judi-
ciously constructed, and the town is surruuiided by a thick wall.
II
s
362
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
M
I
To sail into the. liarhor, run in dirrctly towanlH the church with n flut steeple, and to
within a mile of it. Here you will have l-'i lathonis of water, nearly opposite tlic eastern
point, and a little within, off a small fort on the larboard. Kun ih d'rectly : you cannot
do amiss.* Tov.ards the sea there is no danger.
In navigatinj; olf this coast, allowance must always he made for ♦ currents, which set
most frequently to the castw.ud ; and there is very commonly an iraught into the Bnv
of Nave, to the west, which nuist of course, in sonic degree, allect the navigation to-
wards that of St. Domingo.
Remarks and Directions fur Sf. Domingo, hy Capt. Machellar.
" The anchorage is ahout three quarters of a mile from the shore, and is open to all
winds from S. S. K. .'; E. to S. W. hy W. and, when the sea-bree/.e is at all to the south-
ward, there is of course a very heavy swell. The bottom is of black sand and mud, ap-
parently a good holding gr:)un(l. Ships intending to anchor litre, and being round Point
Nisao, witli the tower in sight, ought to keep well to the eastward; and when the tower
bears N. N. W. they may steer for it, keeping it in that bearing, until within a mile ami
a half of it; then bring tlie west point of the entrance of the river, on which stands a
signal-tower, to bear N. 1 ¥.. and in a h ,(> with some houses on the east side of the river:
these houses stand within the river's mouth on a small sandy beach; and, by keepiri!;
them in one with the west point of the river bearing N. ^ E. will carry you into the best
anchorage.
"On coming witliin a mile of the town, you will get soundings of 40 or 50 fathoms;
the next cast 15; then 10, and from that it shoalens gra<hially to the shore. TJie bank
being very stiep, 1 should recommend to ships having the wind free, to shorten sail in
good time, and run in with their sails clued up, by doing this you will get your soinnl-
ings true: and so soon as in 8 or 9 fathoms, let go your anchor, not waiting to round tu,
as there is but little room.
"The east jioiMt of the entrance of tlie river is a flat rocky point, and stretches con-
siderably out farther than the west ixiiiU. The east point will be the nearest land to yon
when yott anclior, bearing about N. \\. The whole of the town is on tlie west side oi
the river, and has been well fortified, but the fortifications at present are out of repair.—
The river forms an excellc'it harbor inside; but has a bar of solid rock at its entraiup.
with never more than l;!'. t'eet water on it. The pilots here aflirin that the anchoia;:o
outside is jierfectly sale; in my opinion it may be well enough to stop a day or two in tint
season of the year when the weather is settled; but not, on any account, should a ship
anchor here during the hurricane months.
" I had no opportunity of determining the situation of this place while lying here. 1
got the latitude at aniliDr bv two stars, one on the north, and the other on the south;
they gave the anchorage 1H-' 27', and the town was nearly a mile north of us. I shoiiiii
say the latitude of tlio town was about IH" 'Jrt', but not to be depended upon.
Point Nisao is the western point of the Bay of St. Domingo ; and to clear it in goin"
out from that anchorage, you must steer S. by W. or S. S. W. and having run 14 miles
on either of these courses, you will be to the southward of it.
From Nisao Point the c(?ast trends about S. W. and AV. S. AV. and is so clear thw
you may run along it at less than two miles. It then sweeps to the westward towards
Nave Bay, in which there are various harbors and anchorages.'
Salinas Point, on the east side of Nave Bay, is in latitude 18° 12', long. 70° 3G'. From
this point the coast extends to the N. i'^. a mile and a half, to Caldera Point, where a
large bight begins to foim. Here is an inlet of two miles to tin; east, in which everv
class of vessels may anchor in the greatest security, sheltered from both wind and sea.
The mouth of this liarbor (that is, the space which intervenes between Caldera Point an^l
the nearest land) is half a mile wide, but the good and deep channel is reduced to a cable's
length; Ibrarocky shoal, at the edge of which there are 4^ fathoms water, stretches on!
about three cables' length from the coast; and another of the same kind, and witii the
same depth of water at its edge, runs out to half a cable from Caldera Point. The depili
of water in this channel is from 7 to 8 fathoms, on oo/.y sand. Although this harboris
large, the ledge of rocks which borders the coast rountis the whole interior of it, and re-
duces it much; it is also further reduced by various rocky shoals in the very anchorage,
but they have between them good and deej) channels. As these shoals obstruct it so much,
it is extremely difiicult, even with a good knowledge of it, to enter it under sail, and totallv
impossible if you are not acquainted with it. In addition to this, on account of the narrow-
ness of the channel, you cannot work in, and therefore no one should enter into this bight
I
-:$
* r. has been said, thnt since tliis description was written, the depth of the harbor has been re-
line's by an accumulation of sand : caution in entering is therefore necessary.
«>iherwise tin
I'oint, and
<;alilfs' bMigtl
small point,
sends out a r
])assed that
cable's h'ligt I
If the wind
on both liDan
once anchore
examine and :
farther in. yo
From Cab
Ocoa; wlien(
is sheltered
are apt to dra
are in the i)ot
cable a.-liore,
ulso a caiile
and W. N. M
until the bree
Point well pr
very heavy.
From (Jcoa
more, where
great bay.
Near the tu
Escondido or
of tliis is mor<
point, which i
and b fathoms
within the iiai
wliich is two ('
must run, if k(
must keep wit
witliin the har
at two cables
north of the s
length from t'
not draw more
and ships of tl
ipr be, in this
' DEATA P
liayti. Its be
leagues. Ofl
north-eastwar
hi^di moiintaii
ISLE OF
in length Iron
and covered ^\
\rards Cape M
flie passage bi
There is tinci
fathoms, sand
N. E. one mil
East of the
with 50 fathoii
to which a sn
west, three ca
up from the ^
The Fraylc
Beata. The
within a quart
Near all the
shore of Hayt
rocks, about ^
shrubs.
Blum's AMUiiicAiN coast pilot.
363
It steeple, and to
lositP the eastern
•tly : you rnnni)i
irronfs, whirli sot
\g\:t into the Bay
le navigation to-
•ellar.
nd is open to all
all to the south-
mtl and nuid, ap.
einjs; round Point
1 when the tower
vithin a mile ami
1 which stands,!
side of tlie river;
and, by keepinj;
you into the best
0 or "jO fathoms;
liore. The bank
to shorten sail in
Slot your soiind-
iting to round to,
id stretches con-
arest land to \oii
1 the west side oi
3 out of repair.—
k at its cntraiH'f.
at the ancliora^t'
ay or two in tint
It, should a ship
e lying here. I
er on the south;
of us. I shoulil
ipon.
clear it in goin"
ing run 14 milfs
is so clear that
estward towards
70° 36'. From
Point, where ;i
in which eveiy
th wind and sea.
ildera Point ami
uced to a cable's
r, stretches out
rid, and with the
int. The depth
ih this harbor is
ior of it, and re-
very anchorage,
truct it so oMich,
sail, and totally
nt of the narrow -
3r into this bight
i
arbor has been re-
otherwise than b) warping or towing ; having previously anchored to the north of Oaldera
I'oint, and at ai)out a cid)l('.-,' length from it. In order to this, you must keep within 2
cables' liingth from Salinas J'oint, and |)rfserve the same (list;uice until you are jjasl a
small [)oint, which the coast forms between Salinas ;mil ( ';dd(ra Point, which is foul, and
sends out a rocky shoal, on which there is not mere tliaji 'J or '.', I'athoms water. Having
passed that point, which is called Ilarulieras Point, you may run within less than one
cable's length of the coast, if you choose to make ( 'aldera Point, and anchor in its vicinity.
If the wind is not favyrablc for obtaining this silnation, you may tack in, but take care
on both lioards, to tack in 8 or 10 lat'ioms, tlnit you may keep cleiir of the ledges. If
once anchored outside, you nuist get a warp c;irrieil out by yoiu' boats (which nmst also
(•xaiunie and ascertain the pro|)er chamjel) and having warped two or three cables' length
(artlier in, you will be in a very secure and well sheltered anchorage.
From Caldera Point, the coast trends to\v;ir(ls the N. W. to the Point and River of
Ocoa; whence it returns towiu'ds the N'.F. and forms a very extensive roadstead, which
is sheltered from tlie bree/.es : but the b;mk, which is of sand, is so steep, that the anchors
lire apt to drag, and the cables sometime: fail, being damaged by the loose stones which
are in the bottom. From these reasons vessels anchor very near the land, and send a
cable ajliore, which they m:d<e fast to some of the pidm trees that are on the bank, having
also a cable laid out tor the changes of wind which take place in the night from the W.
and W. \. W. and which render it necessary for those, who take this anchorage, to wait
until the breeze comes in, which happens at 10 A. M. With the breeze you leave Ocoa
Point well prepared to receive the gusts of wind which come ij!i' the coast, for tlicy are
very heavy.
From (Jcou Road>tead the coast follows to the north for 1 miles, :md then to west eight
more, where it begins to take to the south, to form the west coast or shore o' the
j;reat bay.
Near the Una where the coast i)egins to descend to the soutli, there is a harbor named
Fscondido or Hidden Harbor, which lies nearly N. W. from Salinas Point. The mouth
of this is more th;m hall'a mih; in width, and to enter it you must kee]) near its soutli
point, which is clean ; and tini water is so deep that at hall' a cable from it there are 5^
and () fathoms. A reef stretches out a cable's length from the imitli point. Haifa mile
within tlie har!)or, and in the direction of the middle of its mouth, there is a rocky shoal,
which is two cables in extent from X. to S. and one from K. to W. and upon which a vessel
must run, ifkeepiii'j; in the middle of the Inirhor, and steering N. W. 'i\) avoid it, you
must keep within two c;ilde.s' length ol' the south shore, and anchor about half a mile
witliin the harbiir, but not farther in with large vessels, for the depth diminishes so that
at two cables larther in there are only 15 feet of water. You can also anchor to the
north of the shoal, in o futhotus, taking c;\re not to run farther in than 3 or 4 cables'
loiigih from tlu! mouth. In fiiK" we;itlier this harbor is excellent for vessels which do
not draw more than l'.> feet, whicli m;\y enter, and be sheltered from all winds. Frigates
and ships of the line remain always exposed to some swell from the S. E., and had bet-
ler be. in this c;>,se, near the soutli than the north i);irt of it.
-' I5FATA I'OIXT, Oil LITTJ.I': CAPK MOXCON, is the southerniuost point of
llayti. Its bearing and distance from Pnuta dc Sidinas are about S. W. -'- W. sixteen
leagues. Of the coast between we liave no jjarticular description. Eight miles to the
north-eastward of lieata Point, is Capo JMongon, and between these points appears the
liigh mountainous land of Jiauruco.
ISLE OF IJFATA.— This island lies to the south of Beata Point, and is 1),- league
in length from north to south, and about two miles broad from east to west. It is low
and covered with bushes. There is a breaker otf the N. by E. side of it, stretching to-
w*ards Cape Mongon, at the extremity of which is a white shoal, that very much narrows
the passage between Beata and the shore. In the passage arc but ;) Huhoms of water.
There is anchorage to the westward of i5e;ita between it and the shore, in 7, 8, and 10
fathoms, sandy and weedy bottom, with the N. W. end bearing about N. by E. or N.
N. E. one mile, and the S. W. end S. by AV. four miles.
East of the isle the water is deep, and there is no ground at a short distance from it
with 50 fathoms of line. There is, nevertheless, a shoal stretching from the S. W. point,
to which a small berth .should be given, as there are no more than 4 fathoms of water
west, three cables' length from the point. When the latter bears E. S. E. you may haul
up from the N. W. end. In the anchorage there is good fishing.
The Frayles or Friars, a number of steep rocks above water, lie west 3 leagues from
Beata. The sea breaks over part of them, and they are so bold to that vessela may sail
within a quarter of a mile round ; but it will be prudent not to approach within a mile.
Near all the isles ofi" the main coast, the bottom may generally be seen ; but near the
shore of Hayti the water is very deep. The coast hereabouts is a flat of white and hard
rocks, about 40 feet high, in which appear large holes find breakings, with some prickly
shrubs.
(
364
nUIXT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ATjTAN'KL A, or tlw (iittlc Mount, u liij;h rucK)' islot. lies at llic distaiiof of (ivp
leagues south from IJeafa I'oinf, in latitude, 17*^ iiri' and longitude; about 71" L'3'. 'P|i,.
islet is peaiiod, Ixit its suniniii lias a n>tiin<lity resemhlin'j; tlie upper i)art «»(' a t)ell. Jt js
generally seen hd'orc anv other land in the vieinity, parlieularly IVom the .southward,
and appears like a dome emerging above a mist or log. Being very bold, it may be uj).
|)roaehed with safety.
At the distance of two and a half leagues N. N. K. from Altavela, lies the south end
of Beata Island. Between is a good and very deep channel. There cannot, however, he
any motive for preferring a passage between these island to passing southward of Alta-
vela; and therefore, vessels bound to the westward from Ocoa^ay, may steer S. S. AV.
twenty-two and a half i.^a^ues, and a west course will lluMi IcaiTOell to the southwaniof
Altavela; a more southerly course is. however, to be preferred, in order to avoid danger
should the wind beonie scant, with a westerly or \V. by N. current, which has often been
found to i)revail here w'nh eonsi(leraI)le strength.
POINT AGU.IAS, or the Kaisc Cape, bears from T.eata Point W. N. W. i W. six
leagues, and from the Frayles N. \V. by N. three leagues. C^ape Lope/, bears north,
true, five miles from Point Agujas. The coast between forms a bay, alfording good an-
chorage. From Cape Lope-/,, Cape Roxo bears N. liy W. two and a half leagues, ani]
between is the Enscnada sin Foiido, or Bottomless Bay : from tliis bay the coast trenilfi
to the N. W. and at five leagues from ( 'a|»n Koxo, is the mouth of tlie llio de Pedcrnale«.
or Petre's Cove which constituted the old limit between Hisjjaniola and Ilayti. At this
place is a good anchorage, which it is easy to take, a bank here extending along short.
and there is no risk in nearing the coast.
From Cape Loi)e/, the promontory called iMorne liouge, or Red Hill, bears N. \\.
twelve leagues. A league and a half to the eastward of Alorne Kouge, is the village nl
Sale Trou, or Foul Hole, where there is a good anchorage for vessels drawing less tJinn
iGfeet: larger ships may anchor tliere, but they must lie farther out when the groumi
is not so good.
From Morne Rouge the coast trenches in n little to the northward, then out again K,
S. E. to the Anses a Pitres, or Pifre ( 'ove. All the coast is clear and may be approaclml
with great safety, as noticed above.
There is good ancliorage at the Anses a Pitres, and of very easy access. Attwo inih>
from the shore the water is very deep. All tlie ( oast hereabout appears white, lirin^
chalky. You may anchor cither before the plain of Anses a Pitres, or southward ot';i
small cape before tlic mouth of a river, which is considerable enough to be easily di-;-
tinguished. Tlie water is smooth, and you will be well sheltered in G or 8 fathoms, grunl
ground, or in 4 fathoms and better ground nearer shore.
From Morne Rouge the coast round to Cape .lacpu'iiiel or .Tacmel, whiclr bears frimi
the former W. S. W. .| W., twenty- nine miles. From Cape Ja(|uemel, (Jape Marchauil
bears N. by E. i E. di'stant rather less tlian two miles.
In approaching Morne Kouge from Ca])e .Tacquemrl, it may be known by its white
hummocks. The coast in the sj)ace between form-' several little creeks, wherein siiiiil!
vessels may auclior; but in none of them will tliev be sheltered.
JACQUEMEL Oil .TACM KL.—Bctweoi Cape .Taccjuemel and Cape MarecJiad.
lies the Bay of .Tacipiemel, in the upper part of wliich there is anchorage for shippin;' ot
every class. Tlie town of Jacr(ueine! stands at the head of the bay. to the east of tlie
River (luache, wliich has several moiulis in the beacji. This bay, which is two niilcs in
depth, was surveyed by Cajitain Mackellar and tlie ol'licers of the British ship Pi(pif, in
1817 ; and from this survey it appears that in the middle of it no bottom could be foiim!
at 70 and 80 fathoms; but. the bank around the coast, wliich is about three cables' in
breadth, lias from 20 to .') fathoms, shoaling to the land. On this bank, upon the N. K.
side of the bay, is a dangerous reef, nearly half a mile long, the outer edge of whi(lii>
three cables' length from the sliore. To the westward of this reef, and opposite the
town, is the anchorage, having from 5 and 7 to .'?, and in one spot 2\ fathoms. You may
sail in with a remarkable white cliff, the last clilf on the western side, bearing from W.
^ N. to N. W. I N. until the wharf, near the middle of the town, comes on witii tlie
eastern side of an old battery, bearing N. by E. i E., and with this mark on you liiti
up to the anchorage, which, at half a mile to the southward of the town, has the dclnh^
above mentioned.
Jacquemcl Harbor may be distinguished at a distance, by the sudden cut off or drop ol
a hill, seen over another long hill at the uppiir part of the harbor. Running in towards
that drop will lead directly to the entrance.
BAYENETTE— Froni Capi; .Tacquemel Cape Bayenette lies nearly W. 1 S., dis-
tant 5 leagues. The latter may be known by the white hummocks and cliffs on its n-
tremity. This cape forms the south side of a bay of the same name, which is open to
the S. E. Its name Bayenette, signifies Clear Bay, and is supposed to have been given
iVoin its gi
Icred, but
LA V
and distill
long iimi i
like an ass
tends to tl
nected wi
Rock.
From tl
shoals, an
bay, calb'i
those who
Crrosse Ca
tuft of lar
anchorage
The we:
called Ba
Abacoii b
25 fathom
white rock
miles fron
Re
" The ?
eter, tVc.
intending
stretches t
nothing in
between
thence sIk
p;irt of th(
of a mile f
are so very
the N. W.
to the S. "\
not to com
from it to
lar soundii
ward and i
))oint of L
for the aiK
"About
there are t
run in and
liill on the
point of L
" The w
very regul;
To the iiov
that betwci
are above i
THE C
reefs, wliic
at the distil
town of flu
wards this
white grou
or 7 fafhoii
is good anc
a sandy co
To go ir
water; and
mocks of (
with a whii
DLUNTS AMEIIICAN COAST PIi/)T.
3()5
(• tlistanco (if (Ivc
)Ut71^ti.r. The
lit oCii liell. Jt is
rii the .southwiinl.
uld, it niiiy be uj).
lies the south ond
innot, however, he
(Uthwuid of Ah;i-
lay steer S. S. W.
the southwnid di
ler to avoid diiiif;(|
ich has often been
\ N. W. 1 \V. six
rope/. bears noilji,
;\li'ording good an-
I half leagues, anil
y the coast trend?
vio do Pedernnlos,
id Ilayti. At this
iding along shon.
Hill, hears N. AV,
e, is the villacn ot
drawing less tlinn
; when the groiniil
then out again K,
nay be apjiroacln i!
ess. At two mile?
pears white, hrin^
or southward (it';i
h to be easily <\W
or 8 fathoms, godil
wliiclr bears from
1, C^ape Marcliauil
iiown by its wliiti'
Us, wherein .siiwll
'ajie Marecjiaiiil.
ge for shippiii;'ol
to tlie cast of tJH'
ich is two miles iii
ish sliip Pirpir, in
)m could be fouml
It three cables' in
, upon the N. E.
• edge of \vhi( ii i-
and opposite tlic
horns. You ni^iy
bearing from W.
:)ines on witii tlu'
mark on you hiti
\vn, has the dcptli«
1 cut off or drop nl
iinning in towards
arly W. 1 S., (lis-
id clifls on its rx
, which is open tn
o have been given
i
iViiin its great depth of water, ;ind beiii'^ entirely clcnr of ^lioals. Tills bny is unsLel-
icred, but there is anchorage on the iiurth siite near the slmri'.
LA VACUK. — From Cape IJayciietto to the east point of ]j,\ Vache, the bearing
and distance arc W. S. W. i VV., thirteen and a half lea'^nes. The isle is three leagues
long and about one broad; it is hilly, iunl at the distance ot' six or seven leanucs, appears
like an assemblage of small islands. The south swh; is boll, and along tlii" north reef ex-
tends to the distance of a cabby's length. i'"rom oil' the cast point is a white shoal, crin-
nected with a reef, extending from an islet to the >i. W., called La Folic, or the Fool's
Hock.
From the Fool's Rock to the N. W. end of La Vache, there is a range of islets and
shoals, among which arc some narrow pMssnces. On the north side of lia Vache is a
bay, called the Haie de Fcrct, where then; is good anchorage, but it is accessible only to
those who are well ac(piainte(l. "^i'lie northernmost of the islets above mentioned, is
(rrosse f/'aye, called also ('aye de I'Kan or Water Key, which is readily known by a great
tuft of large trees. It is bold to, and at some distance from its north side there is good
anchorage, in from 15 to .'JD fatliotiu;
The western end of La Vache forms the east side of the entrance of the great hay,
called Hay of the Craves; and from its S. W. point, called Point Oiaiiiant, Point
Abacou bears nearly W. by S. five miles. In inid channel between, there is a dejith of
2-5 fathoms, thence decreasing towards the island. From the S. W. point of the isle a
white rocky spit extends to the south, having from 7 to 5 fathoms over it, at about two
miles from shore.
Remarks on the Anchorages idtliln La ]'aehc, },y Caj:tam Machellar, 1817,
" The N. W. point of La Vache is in latitude 18^ h' 12" N., longitude by chronom-
eter, c^c. 73" 43' 1.5" W. \'ariation, ')' 20' K. Ships coming iVoin the westward, and
intending to anchor here, ought to round Abacou Point, at a good mile olV, as a reef
stretches to the .S. L. to'nearly that distance from it. Having rounded this reef, tliere is
nothing in the way, and you may steer ior the N. W. point of La \^iclie. At halfway
between it and Abacou Point there are soundings in ].j fathoms, and the bottom
thence shoalens i;railually to the island. The i)cst anchorage here is with the N. W.
part of the island bearing F. N. F'. in T) fathoms; you will then be aliont three quarters
of a mile from the shore, on a white sandy bottom. '^^IMie soundings all over this part
are so very regular, that you can hnnlly err in anchoring any wher?, so long as you keep
the N. W. point of the island bearing to tin; northward of east. From the N. VV. point
to the S. W. point of tlie island the soundings are not so regular, and strangers ought
not to come nearer than in 7 fatlioms, especially near the !S. W. point, for a reef stretches
from it to the southward not less than two miles, having very foul ground with irregu-
lar soundings, to upwards of a mile or more. ^J'herefore, ships, coming from the cast-
ward and intending to anchor, ought to kee]) Abacou Point benring west until the west
point of La Vache bears uortli. Tliey may then haul in to the northward, and steer
for the anchorage.
"About a mile to the eastward of the town of Aux Cayes, which stands to the north,
there are three small white clitVs close to the sea side ; and the mark 1 have generally
run in and out iiy, is the easternmost cliff bearing north, and in a line with a small round
liill on the hijihest land behind it; and anchoring with this mark nearly on the N. W.
point of La Vache, bearing E. N. K. or N. K. by E.
" The wliole of this large bay to the westward of La "\''ache is clear, and the soundings
very regular while you keep tlie west end olthe island bearing to the northward of cast.
To the northward of this 1 had no opportunity of sounding, although lam well aware
that between La Vaclie and Aux Cayes, the bay is covered with large reels, and several
are above water."
THE CAYES, ST. LOUIS, &c. — Point Abacou is composed of two points or
reefs, which stretch three (juarters of a mile tf) seaward ; but you ini'v pass without f ^ar,
at the distance of half a league, and will find no grounil with a line of 40 fathoms. The
town of the Cayes bears from Abacou Point, nearly north fotu- leagues. In sailing to-
wards this place, and apjiroaching Point Diamant, before noticed, you will not find the
white ground for more than a (inarter of a league from it; and the ground is good in G
or 7 fathoms. AVith Point Diamant bearing east there are soundings all across. There
is good anchorage to the west of Diamant Point, and larther to the northward opposite
a sandy cove, in from (J to 7 fathoms, bottom of mud and sand.
To go into Aux Cayes you range along the N. AV. point of La Vache, in G fathoms
water; and you steer nearly N. by E. to make on your starboard hand, the white hum-
mocks of Cavaillon. You will then leave on the larboard haufl a large reef, surrounded
with a white shoal, which takes up almost all the middle of the bay. Wlion you have
3G6
HIJJMS AMERICAN rOASJT I'lLOT.
tMitnilici; IS
'IMk! const
brought the town to hear N. W. | W., )(iii imist Iiaiil up two points to windward o( tliu
town, St indin},' towards tli;) Company's Isltt, where vou may anchor il' you do not mean
to p;o into liic road : if you do you siiorlcn sail a mile from the shore, and wait lor a
pilot. 'I'hc clianni'l is two thii'ds of a cahic in Itrcadth. Slii|)s dr.iwin^ more than i;;
I'cet water cannot i;o in ; those of I.") and 17 leet water always anchor at ( 'hateaudin, halt
a league to the westward, and which is sepiuateil hy shoals I'rom the jjort.
To anchor in the road oC Chaleaudiii, (coming from the mooring of La V^ache,) W,
or W. N. \V. oil Diaiiiatit I'oint. in M or 1 1 fathoms, yon must steer directly for 'i'orliec,
which is a small town very easily distinguisheil in the i od of the hay : this track will ho
I f. ahoui X. W, When you are within aUout Iwo miles of the shore, you will discover a
little white Hag, which is on a shoal; you dniilile it to the westward at ahout half a ca-
ble's length, leaving it on the starboard hand; wlu-n you have brought it to bear south,
you steer along the coast for the road of ( 'liateaudin, and anchor in (> or 7 fathoms, luiid.
In all this passage, if you keep the proper ch.uMiel, you camiot have less than from 7 to
9 fathoms, and often IJ and !(>, uniiidy ground.
In a<lvauLing towards the 'I'apion of ( Javailhui, you must not approai^h too near its S.
E. si<le, as a shoal of only 6 feet water, called Le iMouton, or the Sheep, lies .S. E. from
the eastern point, at the distance of ahout half a mile. There is a dept'.i of Sfalhoiub
between it and the coast.
CAWXILLON IWY is spacious, although its anchorage is of small extent. Tlit;
coast on the western sitle is very steej), and the bottom lull of rocks ; hut there is an-
clioring ground on the eastern side, opposite a coast covered with mangroves, which may
be approached without fear, the bottom being clean, with .'> fathoms close to the shore.
This hay alfords shelter tVom the sea breezes by the; eastern point of an island, wliiili
leaves a i)assage into the liaie des Flamands, ne\t descrilx'd.
Baio des Flamand's, or [■''lamingo 15ay lies a quarter of a league from Cavaillon Hay.
and extends ujjwards towards the N. E. Its entrance and shores are clear and hold, ami
it is the place where ships lie up in the hurricane months. There is a good careening
place, and anchorage in every part.
IJAIi^ or MKSLK. — l''roni Flamingo V>a\ tlie coast extends E. hy X. two miles
tothedrand IJaie dn .Mesle, all over whicli the aiicliora<:e is good; but aslh'
broad and o|)en to the southward, there is no shelter from southerly winds,
hence, continues its direction to Point J'ascal, halfway towards which is the Petite Baii^
du Mesle, in which a vessel may anrlior, hut it will not he sheltered ( ven from the sea-
breeze.
Off the Great Bay du Mesle is a shoal, lying like a bar across the hay, and extending
opposite the point, which is to the westward (d' the Little Ray du .Alesle. This hank has
not, in some places, uu)re tlian from 1.') to IH feet water: it is very narrow, and leaves a
passage of three (piarters of a mile only between it and tlie coast. To the southward it
extends ahout half a league from shore.
To go into the (Jreat liay, w ith a ship drawing more than 15 feet, you must kcej) closi'
to the shore on the western side, steering hy Pointe Paulin, whicli forms that side nt'
the entrance.
15 AY OF ST. LOUIS.— The great entrance of the P.ay of St. Louis lies bet wren
Point Pascal, which is steep and wide, and a little isle called Orange Key; the bearing
and ilistance from one to the other being E. A X. rather more than half a league. Tliis
isle may be seen from the entrance of the Cayes, thirteen miles distant, whence it ap-
pears nearly in a line with the southern extremities of the intermediate coast.
About two thirds of a mile X. E. by X. from Pascal Point is the N'igie or Old Look-
out Point; between is a cove, called the Bai du I'aradis. When (df the V^igie Point
you will have the whole of tlie Bay of St. Louis in sight. The bay is shut in on tlin
eastern side by Cape Bonite, which bears from the \'igie Point, N. E. J- E., distant one
mile and tliree quarters.
In proceeding to the anchorage of the P)ay of St. Louis, run along past Point Pascal
and Point \'igie, and thence along the western coast of the bay, in ri or 10 fathoms wa-
ter. The anchorage is west of the Old Fort,^ about a (|uarter of a mile from the west-
ern shore, and so situated that the town may he seen from it, between the Old Fort ami
shore, in the bottom of the bay.
In the anchorage betbre the town, called the Little Anchorage, the greatest depth is 5
fathoms.
S. S. E. three quarters of a mile from the Old Fort, and west of Cape Bonite, at
nearly the same distance, is a shoal called Le Mouton, (The Sheep.) There is a good
* The Old Fort is on an island of rocks towards the middle of the bay, half a mile to the south,
ward of the town. In t!ic passage between it and the shore, there is a depth of six fathoms.
passage In
of water i
I5etwee
shoal groi
pass into
of this ke
a little isl
within it a
ninth of
which hea
mock rath
.Mousticpi;
South o
part, only
Eel, and ti
angle, hav
E. N. E
Great Key
markahh^
to ; hut tl
passag(! he
Fast of
rock, c.dlei
cahles' len;
Aipiin, the
tin: hay.
(i fathoms
hay is exte
only li lath
The poll
white hum
which is an
tiniU'S as fa
\V. a leagu
To enter
before men
and the isla
low isle of.
the shore ;
the northw;
(iFXEK
and steep. ;
white hum
and higliest
take them,
reel ion of t
east, soutln
and hold to
leagties am
great depth
]\)IXT
vois, the he
easily distil
small cove
From Pf
anchorage ]
Coteaux.
remarkable
From L
tends W. b
de Vieux E
ship may in
breeze.
From Be
ward 4 mile
white shoal
BLUNT rt AMi:UICA\ COAKT PILOT.
867
iiulwanl of the
II (Id not iiiciiii
iirid wait I'nr a
; iiiDi); tliiui 1,'t
lu(t(.MU(Jiii, liall°
LaVaclie,) \V.
■tly for 'roi'licc,
is track will Iji;
will discover a
lioiit half a ca-
to l)car south,
t'atlioins, iiiiid.
than from 7 to
too near its S,
lies .S. E. (Voiii
!i of 8 fallioiub
1 extent. Tlit;
lit. there is an-
ves, wliieli may
ic to the short'.
1 island, whicli
Cavaillon J?av.
ir and hold, ami
good careening
ly N. two mill's
i the entrance is
ds. Thi! coast
the Petite ]]ai(;
n from the sca-
;md extondiii!;
This hanlv has
, and leaves a
10 southward it
lUst Uoe|) close
IS that siiie of
is lies helwrpii
the hearini;
eat; lie. This
whence it ap-
oast.
or Old Look-
V'is^ie I'oint
diiit in on the
'',., distant one
t Toint Pascal
0 fathoms wa-
from the west-
Old Fort and
itest depth is 5
ape Bonite, at
'here is a good
■nile to the soulh-
fathoms.
i
i
pnssage hctwecii It and the sliore, as well ;i-^ between It aiul the Old I-'ort ; but the depth
of water is less on the eastern than on the western side of the hay.
Metweeii Oranue Key and the shore, in a N. K. direction, there are two islets nnd somr
i^lioal j;roiind; the first of which, next to Oraime Key, is called Kai's Key. Von may
pass into the hay of St. Louis tliroii^h a siiiill passaj^e immediately on the nortli side
of this Key.
AC^l IN BAY. — One mile and a half K. by N. from Orange Key, is i\Ionsfi()iie Key,
a little island clcar'^of siioals, unless very close in shore. Vou may jiass without or
within it at the ilistance of one eiL'lith of a It-asjiie, in 10 fathoms, (ape .St. (ieor^e \»
north ol iMousti((iie Key, and N. W. of a key called ('aye a |{amiers, (or i'ineon's Key,)
which l)ears K. hy N. two miles from iMousii(|ne Key, and is known hy a white hum-
mock rather steep, and st;en at some distaiu-e. There is a deep passage between it and
.A|()iisti(|iK' Bay, by which ships pass into the urcat iiay ',' Aquin.
South (d' ( 'aye a Kamiers is a shoal extendiiii; Ii;df a league, wliieh has, on its middle
part, only .'! fathoms. Hast of the same key is a small isle, called L'Anguille, or tie
Kel, and to the N. K. is another, called Le Kaj^ale ; the three tbrm an e({uilatcral lu-
anj;le, havini; each side lialf a leaijue in length.
E. N. E. three (puirters of a league from Cayo a Kamiers, lies the west end of the
(iieat Key cd' A(|uin, which is two miles in length, and distinguished by two very re-
iiiaikahle white liummockH. It extends K. and K. by N. true, and its south side is bold
to; hut th(! white shoals of L'Auszuille extenil to its western point, so as to prevent a
jjassagi! between it and ('aye a Kamiers, for sliips that draw more than I'i or l-l feet.
East of Aquin Key, at the distame of a short ipiarter of a league, is a white insulated
rock, called Le Diamant, or tlie Diamond; to thu eastward of this, at the distance cjf two
cal)les' length, is tlie ]),)iiit of iNlorne Kouge, or Ked Hill. Thus the eastern end of
A(|Min, the IJiamond iioelt, and the point of iMoriic IJoiige, form the two jjassages into
the hay. All the islands and shores are bold. In tin; Moriu^ JJoime I'assage are 5 and
() fathoms water, and in tir.it between A<|uin Key and the Diamond, (>, 7, and 8. The
bay is extensive and trenches consideialdy inland, hi t the water is shallow, and there are
only 3 fatlioins at a distance from siiore.
The point of Morne Koiige may be readily known at a distance, by three very high
wliite hummocks, called the Tapion-j of A(;uin, which together form a great cape, under
which is an anchorage in 10 and 1'.^ fathoms, at a distance from land. This bottom con-
tinues as far as the Feiite Bale des Klamands, or Little Flamingo B;'.v, which is W. N.
A\ . a league and a (piarter from the Tapions of A(iuiii.
To enter the passage into A(iiiiii Hay, between ('aye a Kamiers and ^fostitiue Key,
before mentioned, steer \. N. JO. so as to get into the mid-channel between the shore
and the island, 1 laving doiil)led Key a Kamiers, yoinvill see La Kagale, which is a very
low isle of sand ; leave this on the starboard side, keeping in mid-channel between it anrl
the shore; then haul up for Aquin Jv(>y as iimch as tlie •■ iiul will ptuiiiit, and anchor to
the northward id' it in (> or 7 fathoiiis, or farther in at pleasure.
(iKNEKAJi KM.M AKKS. — Observe that from I'oiiit Pascal all the capes are broken
and steep, and from the S. and S. E.; and as. on all this coast the land is white, many
wliite hummocks will he seen. Aquin has two above mentioned ; but tlie easternmost
and highest are those of Morne Kouge, and, with attention, it will he impossible to mis-
take them. J'"roiu the point of .Morne Kouge, or the hummocks of A(]uiii, the true di-
rection of the coast, after having tronchr^d in to I'orm the Petite Bale des Flamands, is
east, southerly 10 leaiiues to Cape Hainet. The whole of this coast is free from danger
and bold to, but has no hay or anchorage, or shelter t'rom the common breeze. Two
leagues and a half westwanl of liainet the coast is iron bound, and the waternear it of
great (le])th.
I'OINT ABACOU TO CAPE TIBIKOX.— From Point Ahacoii to I'oint a Gra-
vois, the hearing and distance are west, southerly 21 leagues. The latter is low, not
easily distinguishable, and has frec|Utntly Iieeu mistaken for the land of Port Salut, a
small cove lying a league farther to the N. N. \V.
From Point ( iravois N. W. hy N. 4 leagues, there is a biglit of half a league, in which
anchorage may he found. This bight lies about two miles to the southward of Les
Coteaux. From tliis sj)ot to a large liummock called Les Chardoiiiers, which is very
remarkable at a distance, the bearing and distance are nearly W. N. \V. 10 miles.
From Les Chardoniers to the r'ond des Aiiglois, or English Bottom, the coast ex-
tends W. by N. 4 miles, and a hay thence rounds to within a league and ahalf ofPointe
de Vieux Boucan orBoucan Point. All this part is safe, but it has no anchorage. A
ship may indeed anchor very near the land, but it is every where exposed to the sea-
breeze.
From Boucan Point to Point Burgos, which is a low point, the coast trends west-
ward 4 miles. Between these places, ofi'a point called Aigrettes Point, there are eome
white shoals, rocks and breakers ; but their extent is not more than half a league.
3(>8
III.l.Mr.S AMKUH .Vi> LOAHT IMI.O'I.
Ilif Nnrllicni ('i)iisf of Ilin/li, or Sf, Dovi'm/rn, between L'tijie Hiijiharl ami St,
JSicliolim' Molt'.
fV;irialii)ii KiKiiTiiIly iilioiit .')'' K.]
(-'ATK HAIMJAKI. \h ol' nMMlrr.iti' ln'iirht, :iiiil lies in or nlmiit laf. l')'",>' nnd long.
CH*^ ■')',>'. It has iilrt':i(ly Imi-ii (livscrihi'd. Kioin this ciipc to ('a|H' SaiiiiKia, tin- hcariin.
aiii] (liHtaiici! art! N. \V. | W., ni arly 7 ifaL'm's. Uttwi-cii tli(^ twi) is Saiiiaiia ll;iv,
ahoiit |() Icat^iics ilcf|), sn that ynii can scanriy sec the hinil at \Uv. hottoin of it; h'm
wliat appears tii tin; cyt" is very hi;;;li liimlih- laiiil.
(/'AI'K SAMANA is a hnikfii rii'^'^i-d point ul laiul, whicli appears. (Vdm ;> great dis-
tance, like a ship with her topsails down, and seems not to join the main, hut on a neanr
approach, this shape changes. The cape makes with two |)()ints, hoiji alike, hlull' and
steep, aliout tiie hei<;ht ol' iieachy Head, in the l')ii'j;lish ('liamnd, lint not so whitt.
They are 4 or ') ndles asunder, with a small hay and harhor hetweeii them. At 2 or 'I
miles to tlie westward of tho westLriimost point, there is very hiit^ii land, which l'«IK
down to the waterside, and is twict.' iis lii^li as Cape Samana.
SA.MANA IJAV. — 'i'here is ijood anchoraiie in IJanisire or licvantados Road, on tin;
south side of tiir peninsula (d' Samana. in advancin;,' Cor this phuM-, (d)servH that wIumi
Cape Samana hears N. W. Iiy W. alxiiit a league, it appears like two points, the wcm.
rrnmost of whicli, as you come farther in. you should hrinj^ open with a while sjiot ni
sandy fjround, which may at fust ho ndsiakeu for one of tlu! sand keys, althout;!! it \*
connected with the main shore. In order to ascertain tin; true point, oliserve that in
(;oniin<j; ahont it it will appear as if a small rock were lyinj; oil' it, whic h, on a nearer ii|i-
proach, w ill lie found to join to the land. The soundinus are uncertain. Having well
shot into the hay, yon may have 10 fathoms, and then no j;romid in i>().
Or, heinji olf Cape Samana. and intendin;j lor this port, sail S. S. W. .T or 4 iniln
alons; shore, (you may i,Mi within a mde. for it is hidd to.) to Point N'elandras or IJIiic
I'oint, which has two or llir''e Idack rocks lyiii;; near it. When at the leuiith of tlii<
jioiiit steer thence west about liall'a i;iile, and you will leave three keys, which are liii;li
and woody, a mile from you (ui yoiu' larboard side, ^\'itl^ the westernmost of thellnti'
keys hearing S. S. W. you may anchor in l/i fatiioms. half a mile from shore, and have
good water. Tln-n rjcvaiitados or l>aui<lre l\ey will hear \V. hy N 1 mile oil".
Thcr<' is good easy liding in this harhor, in from 7 to .'! fathoms, ^'ou may also fiml
good fresh water in ii;;iny pl;ices, with plenty ol' (ish and low I. Here is coniiuoiily ;i
fresh l)re(>/,e from the eastward all d.iy, iind open to the north.
The preceding paragrajjlis are from the Frendi of the Count Chastenet de Piiysi-
gttr, iVe. Tlie t'ollowin;' from tin; Spanish Derrolero.
SAArAiN'A JjAV. — fnuii Cape Ivapliael the coast trends nearly West, and forms 3
gulf, shut in to the N. W. hy the ])cniiisiila of Samana. The i-ast point of this penin-
sula, named Cape Samana, lies 7 leagues N. W. hy W, I \V. from Cape Ra|)hael, 'J'liis
bay, which is more than 11 leagues in extent, from east to west, and 4 from north t.i
south, is obstructed and almost shut up liv a iireat reef, whicli eslends from the sdiitli
coast, ami so far to the north, that a channel ol'only :i miles in \\i<lili remains hetwetmi
and the pcrdnsuiii "f Samaira. The iiortliern extremity of this reef is marked by sdiii'
keys or islets, the largest of wliicli, called (Jayo Levanlados, nuist he left on the; larlKnipl
liatnl on going into the bay. Within there are several anchorages, hut little fre(|Ufiitiil,
as there is scarcely any commerce here. The (irst am horagi- is on the coast of tlir
l)eiiinsula, and near the entrance of the bay ; it is named tin; Carem-ro ('hi(;o, (or F/iltlt'
Carenagc :) to enter and anclxir here, it is necessary to approach within half a mile ci
I'oint V^elandras, wliich is tlie S. K. point of the peninsula, and to keep along the idee
of tlie coast at this distance, until sheltered by Vinas Point, when you may anchor in (i
fathoms, taking caret to keep half a mile fniiii a key, naineil the Key of the CaiTiiirc
('hico, which is at the west part of the road, and has, to the south of it, either four k
five small islets. IJehind this key, and between it and the coast, is the proper anilio-
rage ; but it is much narrowed by shoals, and must be entered by warping. I'oint Vin:i< I
is easily known, as it bears true north from the west part of Levantados Key. hi the ;
entrance there is nothing to he feared, because there is no danger but what may be wpil
seen : and only inward from Point Vinas is there a shoal, having on it two feet of water;
to keep clear of this shoal, bear in mind that it hears east, a long mile from Vinas Point.
Iiy f(dlowing the coast, as we have directed, at the distance of half a mile, you will ji
safe Iroin it ; but, for greater certainty, kee|) something to starboard, when you will souml
in 5 fathoms water; for in the channel, between it and the coast, there are 6^ and i
fathoms.
A league and a lialf to the west of the Carenero Chico, is the Puerto de Santa Barbara.
or of Samana : the anchorage here is vc: y narrow at the entrance, which is formed bp
great reef, that runs out to the cast from rohit Escoudidu, the S. \V. Point of the liar
■I
bor; »nrt on I
pf/.on ; the m
thi* Point Ki
Ijorlli roast s
th(* firit in en
Eoint (if its e
ay there i« |
but h;i5 7 fiuli
cipal lurlinr n
ia found to th
Dorlli coa.it, H
nearer to, nor
mid .ttrait ; an
ern reefs, or, I
o( R cable. S
and then you
until Point K.<
towardn the b
onchur to the
anchor in Agu
Point (loinero
of .\guada.
From this ai
in which there
violent. Two
thence, in the
bank, in ihe in
From Kspan
of the bay, yoi
whicli there is
and about soul
ther in there is
aground. 'J'o
for the .south c
account pf the
yon will fall to
which affords a
Point, when ct
length of it.
The entrance
with the land b
Cape Sainaii
ingit, you may;
even more higli
and covered wi
be approached
and forms a gic
foul ; from whii
vessels to visit
cois, or Old Ca
Francois may h
a mountain inla
Ships comin
to their makino
ing particular c
In this track tl
and they will p
monly setting t
B.UO iNAV
20° 12' N. and
the centre, and
Vessels bound
correcting their
surveys of Cap
nHJXT S AMKRICAK COAST I'lI.OT,
3G9
ael and St.
19" !i' and long.
nil, the beariiii;
s Siiiiiiuiu \\,\y,
ttiiiii III' it ; but
-oin a ^r(■ut (Hh-
hut uii a nearer
alike, liliilV mill
t not HO whitt,
em. At 2 (ir:;
iiid, which MU
OH Road, on tlie
serve that wlieii
ointH, tlie west-
a white H|iiit (if
t, ahhoii^h it \<
observe that in
on a nearer ii|i-
1. Having well
^V. .') or 4 niil(>
liandraH or IShie
i h'tiiztli of tlii<
wiiicli are iiii;h
lost ol' the llini;
shore, and li:ivo
le olV.
:m may also fiml
is coiiimoiiij a
;enet de Pujsc-
est, and forms a
It of this ])eiiiii-
Kapliael. Tliis
4 from north in
from the .sniilli
mains iictweriiil
iiarki'd by suiue
t on the larlxmrii
little fre(|U'>iitiMl, '
the eoast of tin'
Chieo, (or fiittle
in half a mile ui
) along the ".ikf
may anchor in 'i
of 'the CaiTmr^'
it. either four m f
le proper aiiili-
. Point Villi-
\oH Key. In the [
vhat may be wpH '
wo feet of water :
om Vinas Point,
nile, you will s"
?n you willsoiiml
lere are 6i and "
le Santa Barbara,
ch is formed b)s
Point of the har-
bor; and on this raof, ri^c ««v«ral keyn or inlfi»«, ol'wliieh the outermost i.i named T
ro-
the second i!« the (IreUer Ciirenero ; and the third, Cayo Kseondi !<), is very nea
ihi- I'ouii Ktconilido, on the went. There \h not oidy this re'-f at the entrance, lor lh«
[IfZOtl
t sends olltwo, which siretrh far to the .south, and lorui two I
north foasi senos on iwo, wnicu siren ii lar n» im- souiii, arm lortn two l)ayM : ol tlieso
thp tirsi in called .\miada, or Watering Hay, aii<l ii lias P.iint Ciouiero for the N. E.
point of its entrancp. The second roadstead lies between tlie two reefs. In Agundi^
Bay there ii ({ood anchorage, in b fathoms, clay ; the Hecond aneliorajje \h very narrow,
bui has 7 fathoms water. To the west of these two reefs and roadsteads, lies the prin-
cipal biirbor and anchoras{e of Samana, with ;; depth of.') and <> fathoms, on clav, which}
is found to the south of the town. To enter this iiarbor it is necessary to run iiloiiij the
north coast, nt half a cable's distance, and steer lo ilir. west, taking cart neither to get
nearer to, nor farther from I'oint (Joniero, than half a cable; for you will thus run in
mid strait; and by kecfiing farther olf, you would incur the risk of getting on the south-
ern reefs, or, by coming nearer, get on those of Point (Jomera, which lie out one third
of a cable. .So .soon as past I'oint (ioinero, you may see a little riynlet in Agiiada Hay ;
and then you ought to place the prow direct for the wewtcin extremity ol Carenero Key,
until I'oint Escondido, or its key, bears W. }, S. when you may run about W. by N.
towardn the bottom of the Iiarbor, and perfectly fiee from the northern reefs, and may
anchor lo the south of the town, in 5 or 6 fatluuiis water, u|ion <'lay. If you wish to
anchor in Agnada Hay, you must run in, Inlfiiig up to the northward so soon as past
Point (hmiero, in order to anchor in the iniddlo of it, and about ,S. }^ K. from the riyulct
of Aguada.
From this arjchorage the coast of the peninsula continues bold, and with roadsteads,
in which there is nothing to fear, ex(;ept the south winds, w hicii in their season are olieii
violent. Two leagues to the west of .Saniana lies I'oint Espanola, with an islet ; and
thence, in the interior of the bay, there is no estaljlishnient whatever. A large clay
bank, in the interior of the bay, runs out more than tv u leagues.
From Espanola Point, in which you will be well to the west of the reef at the entr.ince
of the bay, you shoufd steer to the south for the Hay of Porlas or of St. Lorenzo, in
which there is no necessity to run far in ; and it may sufiice tp anchor at its entrance,
and about south of Arenas Point, which i.s the north point of this bay ; for although far-
ther in there is sulticient depth, yet there are sand batiks, on whu'li you iriight easily get
aground. To find this ' ly, it is better to make the land to the east than to the west ;
for the .south coast of .'sainana, from Perlas Hay to the west, is very wild and unsafe, on
account of the many ialels along it. Steering from said Point Kspanola to tho S. J E.
you will fall to the east of tlie bay, and make a little town named .Savanna dc la Mar,
which alFords anchopige for very small vessels ; and thus, so soon as you discover Arenas
Point, when crossing over, steer towards it, and you may approach within a cable's
length of it.
The entrance of .Sainana Hay is elVected with the regular breezes ; but you can got out
with the land breezes only, which blow by night.
Cape Samaiia is of considerable height, and steep down to the water's edge ; on Hear-
ing it, you may also discover Cape Cabron, which is N,\V. from it, nearly 3 leagues : this is
even more high and scarped, or steeper, tiian the f.Jimer, and the coast between is green,
and covered with large trees: on it there are some islets, and as it is foul, it should not
be approached nearer than one league. From Cape tJa!)ron tho coast tHACs to the west,
and forms a great bay called Escocesa Bay; the coasts of this bay are low, and very
foul ; from which reason, and as there is neitlur town nor establishment in it, to induce
vessels to visit it, they ought to proceed direct from Cape Cabron to Cape ^ iejo Fran-
cois, or Old Cape Francois, which lies 15 haiuesfrom it, \V. N. W. | W. Old Capo
Francois may be seen, in clear weather, at the distance often leagues. It is known by
a mountain inland, which may be seen at the distance of 15 leagues.
Directions for those Sailing in from the Eastward.
Ships coming from the eastward towards the N. E. coast of Hayti, should, previous
to their making the island, run down between the huitudes of iy° 20' and IQ"' 50', tak-
ing particular care not to pass either to tho northward or southward of these latitudes.
In this track they will make the land, either by Cape Cabron, ur Old Cape Francois,
and they will pass clear of the .Silver Key Bank on the one side, and the current com-
monly setting towards Samana Hay on the other.
BAJO NAVIDAD.— The north point of this bank lies in long. 68° 46' "W, and lat.
20° 12' N. and extends in a southerly direction about 125 inilos; it is 12 tuiles wide in
the centre, and has on it from 14 to 26 fathoms water, and i^ perfectly free of danger.
Vessels bound to the north side of St. Domingo, can have an excellent opportunity of
correcting their longitude by running for this Bank, \yhicb is laid down from the r( nent
surveys of Capt. K. lOwen, ij,. N. and published by E. & G. W. Blunt, 1833.
47
■
1
370
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT,
In pausing to the noriliwnnl of Porto Riro, a look out slioiild he kept for a rock or
shoal, (if not more tlian one,) whii li ((Mtaiiiiv exists tlieie, altlioiinii its exact situation
IS not yv
t ki
own. 'I'liis (lainier has been noticed, where it is slalt'tl (hat an Ainericin
J i;
^Ull
N;:u'
|}
schooner sInuU ujion it in 1H17. iti latitude alionf -JO" north; and we have since met
with another notice which states that, "At filty miles north iVom JNirto Uico, ('a|)tain
Baxter, in the hrii; Koherf, struck on a rock, and remained several hours."
OLD CAIM<; VKANCOIS.— The point of the Old ("ape is rather low, and strelcliei
out in the form of the snout o ' a porpoise ; at 5 or (> lea^'ues ilistance to the N. N. \V.
of Cape Cabron, in a clear day, the Old Cape is seen maUin»^ like an island, whose ends
slope gradually iiUo the s<a. When you have made Cape Cabron, beint; 4 or.'') leasnn
to the north-westward of it, you must sail 11! or 14 leagues M. \V. .V W. and you will
pass 5 leagtips to the northward of tlie Old Cape; then steer W. by N., when, havin;
run 1.5 leagues, vou will see Point Casrongeat about .'{ leagues distance from you; cdh.
tinue on for 5 leamics, when N'sabella or Isabella Point will bear S. \V. \ W., dist.tni l
leagues; having advanced thus lar, you have nothing to fear, and if necessary, you inaj
kee|) withir. ! lit a league of the shore, the coast being very clear.
At about 4 leagues otf to the northward of Old Cape Francois, its point appears like
a porpoise snout, projecting 'o the eastward ; and .'? leagues farther west is a jioint naiiifd
Cabo de la Koca, or Koeky Cape, very much reseudilmg it, and projecting to the west-
ward. 'JMie coast between lies W. ,', N.and K. J S.; it is low, rather steep to the seaside,
and covered with trees remarkably green.
Towards the point of the Old Cape, a mountain is perceived inland, which, in clear
\reather, can be seen lo leagues olV, and is a good mark to point it out.
'J'here is soirie foul ground laying oil' the |)itch of the Cape, and a harbor a little lo
the westward id" if for small vessels. When sailing from Cape Saniana to Old Cap?
Francois which is about (> or 7 hours sail, you see a point of land on the east side ol
the Cape, which often times at first si<;hf, you sui)pose to be the Cape, but comiiif
nearer you will see your niisiike. i'uid when you are due north of Old Cape Krantoi-.
you ".ill perceive to the eastward of the ("ape a very steep point, which seems to be di-
vi(' -d from the main, and iiimiiui; oil" the land lises higher and higher in such a manner ilui
the highest part of it lies op-ii to the sea, so high that yon cannot see the land wiiliiu.
When from ( )ld ("ape Francois you sail for Monte ('hristi, observe to steer a niorf
northerly course in hauling olf, givin i a good distance between you and tlie shore, he
cause the currents always set upon it; and unless you do this you will run the hazard
of being ashore.
From Cape de la Roca, the Iniid trenches in to the distance of 2 leagues, and foiinsj
b?y pretty deep, which is sheltrn-d by reefs. This coast trends to the W. N. W. and,
rising iii height to the ni rthward, comes to Punta iMacnris or Point Mascury, wliifh
bears \\ J N. ;rom Cape de la I? oca. This pcdnt is high, and its shore bold : it serves
as a mark lor the small harbor of 8t. Jago, which is V, leagues distant from, and to the
eastward of Puert.i ue Plata.
PUKRTC l)l; PLATA, or Port Plata, lies 17 lengnes from the poWit of the (JM
Ca|"e, and beats from it ue ;. It is km)wn by a mountain at some distance inland, winch
appears insulated like the (irange, although not in so precise a manner. 'J'he anchorat;''
is good, and the entrance nearly coveied with mangrove islets, which you range ainn;,
leaving them on your larboard lianrl ; when you are within these islets, you anchor in 17
to 20 fathoms, good bottom. Observe, when sailing in, to keej) close to that point of
land on your larboard side, which you will see to Ix broken and rugged. When coniinj
about the said point, lulf up round and run tij) as far as you can, with your sails aliimsi
shivering in the wind; thus you wi'l gain the best piace in the road.
On approaching the coasr yon will descry to the westward, a great cape, very highnnd
steep; the extremity of this is Punta del Algarroba, or Point (^asroiige, which is readily
known by its maanilnde.
The bight from Port Plata lo Point Casrouge is bordered with reefs close to the-xliore,
and does not admit of any anchorage.
Old Cape Francois and the (treat Point of Algarroba, or Casrouge, bear from cirh
other W. ^ N. and K. ^ .S. 1<)^ leagues. When at the distance of about 3 leagues to
the northward of Casrouge, you will see a low point projecting out to the westward,
which is remarkable by its having the appearance of being detached from the co.i.st like
an island: it is Ysabella or Isabella Point, the northernmost f)oint of Havti.
YSABKLLA, OR ISAHKLLA POINT, according to the late observations, liesin
latitude 1!)° 5')', longitude 71° 10' 30", and at the distance ol 4^ leagues W. N. W.J
W. from Algarroba or (^asrouge Point. To the eastward of it lies the <leep bight, califd
Puerto C'aballo, PortCavallo. Tn the bight between these, is an anchorage for vessels
drawing 12 or 1.'? feet water, and sheltered by the reefs: the entrance is readily known
Sy running to it along the reefs.
II
On the w
gain than t
from .'■> to 7
|""r()in !>■
leagues,
row and da
West of
an ancliora
necessitv.
To gain
as you are
This aiic
Rncia. lies
THK (i
is seen at a
iiisiilateil a
of a barn, I
you may a
of the (ira
part, at tin
Islet. Tilt
ll.Vl TT
shual of not
small spilt o
1781. ( io'-
The while l
there may n
slioal, the Ci
o\\cn of eac
iMoXTE
another ree
extends neai
milf! broad,
other parts v
:i to 4, 3, f), i
20 to 2.') all ;
have coarse s
nacles of the
eastern end o
tweeii it and
S. W. by W
With Isab
pass without
grees to the
S. I-:. Hilt,
these shoals
bring you >'i
distance of a
In sailing I
to the northv
always sets t
There is ii
the Frayle, c
thonts; but
ther in, with
Haytien.
in approai
from Cabras
ing the ancli
of E.:^ N., ll
The Shoa
south as far
coast at the
bank rise th
groves. Th
secuud from
V'l.'o
BLUNTS AMERICAN COASt PlLOTi
an
kept for a rock or
I its exiict siliiniidt)
lliiit ill! Aincriciin
we hiive since inn
()rt«> Kico, ("apiiiin
iins."
r low, and stretchy
•e lo the N. N. \V.
ishnici, whoso ends
einc; 4 or -^ liMmicn
\ W. and you will
y N., when, hnvm;
lep from you ; cnn-
\V. { \V., ilistam |
leccssary, you may
I point appears like
pst is a [Hiint naimil
jectinj; to the wrs;.
iteep to the sea side,
ind, which, in clear
lit.
I a harbor a htllc to
iniana to Old Cnpp
on the east side ol
Cape, hut rouiiiij
Old Cape Krancui>,
lich srcMis to bedi-
1 such a manner tliai
CO the land within.
erve to steer a niorf
I and the shore, he
will run the hazard
eaunes, and fonnsa
the W. N. W. mid, ■
iiit Maseiiry, wliioh
lore bold : it server
int Iroin, and to the
le ])o'nt of the (M
stance inland, winch
r. J'hc anchornje
1 you range alnii;,
s, you anchor in 17
se to that point of
I. \\'hen coming
h your sails alnmiit
i'(
r;i|)p, very liiclinnd
i}^e, which is readily
Is close to the shore,
gp, bear from cirh
about 3 leaciipstn
It to the westward,
troin the coast like
Hayti.
observations, liesio
tsiues W. N. \V.\
edeep bicht, called
chorage for vessels
■ce is readily l«nomi
I
On the western sirie of Isabella Point is a more exlenslv niich-jvape, and more easy to
^aiii than that of the east, Imt the gronmi in nruiy nbu'M is foul: llieie is a depth of
iioin a to 7 fallioins water.
l-'roiii Isabella I'oiiit to tiie (irainje the bearin;: and distance are \V. S. W. J W. 10
leagues. Tlie. coast between is bordered with reels, among whiiih the entrances are nar-
row and (lanyeroiis.
West of Isabella I'oint is Punta Rucia, or Rocky Point, to the westward of which is
an aiicliorage for larg^ vesscl.s, which being very bad, ought to be used only i,n case of
necessity.
To 2;ain this anchorage you must haul very close to Rocky Point, and anchor sosooa
as VDii are in I'i fathoms, white l)oll(im.
Tills anchorage, uliicli is slieltered by the reefs that stretch N. N. W. from Punta
Rucia. lies about four leagues from Isabella Point.
TIIH (jiKA.\(;K. — The (Jranire I'oint is known by the mountain of that name, and
is seen at a great distance before you perceive the sea coast. This mountain, which is
iiisiilated and stands upon a low peninsula, has very much the iifipearance of the roof
ol' a barn, from which it takes its name (iraiigc. The northwest part of it is bold, and
you may api)roach it within a (piarter of a league, or even less. Close to the west part
of the (Jramzc Point is a lorky islet, named the Krayle, or Friar; and from its S. W.
part, at three cables' length, is another somewhat larger, and named ("abrns, or Goat's
Islet. 'I'liese are the islets of .Monte Christi.
IIVIT-FOND. — Two leagues to the N. N. E. of the Orange Point lies a white
shual of not more than tw(» cables' length each way, called the I l;;ut-Fon(l ; there is a
small spot on llie sho.d, with only 'J.j t'eet of water, on which the \'ille de Paris struck in
1781. ( iose ! it is a depth of () fathom*, then li) and l.'j, and suddenly no ground.
The white g tm\ has generally scattered rocks, so that it cannot I. e ascertained whether
there may not be some spots on it, even with less than 'J.') feet. When you are on this
sIkihI, the (irange bears vS. by W. ', W. yon \\ill chen have the islets of Monte Christi
open of each other, the westernmost of them bearing S. .'^. W. [ W.
MoNTE CHRISTI RI'.KK.— A! jnt .'{ leairiiesto the westward of Haut-Fotitl, lies
another reef, on which the 15rilish ship Torbay struck ami lost her rudder, in 17»*,'i. It
extenils nearly N. F. and S. W., is about three (|uaiters of n mile in length and half a
mile broad. On the slioalest |)art the iioints ol Kicks stand up like sharp spires. On
other parts were seen while |)atches of sand. 'J"hi' shuale.sl water. .'3 fathoms ; thence
'.i to 4. 5, (). and 7 fathoms. It is steej) to, and hasfrom 15 to 17 fathoms close to it, and
L'O to 'J.') all around. The biittom is soft in '20 fathoms; and in som«> pl.ices you will
have coarse sand. The water, when smooth, is very clear, so tiiat you niiiy see the pin-
nacles of the rocks as you |)ass over them in a bntit. From the sln.al. in .'{ (athonis, the
eastern end of a ^rove of trees, ojien to the so'ith-westward of Monle Christi, (and be-
tween it and the key,) bore S. F. and the Mount ol (Jape Francois, (now Cape llayticn,)
S. W. by \V. The variation at the same time was tr JO' F.
With Isabella Point bearing S. W., distant four leagues, ihe course and distance to
pass without the shoals called the [laut-Fond and .Monte Christi Heel', will boa few de-
grees to the northward of west, seventeen bagucs; and then the latter will bear about
S. E. But, shoiild you be u|i with Isabella Point, and prefer the mid channel between
tht se shoals and the coast, a W. by S. course sixteen ler'gues, will clear Uic slioals and
bring you in sight of the high lanil of Cape llayticn, (fdrm.ily Cape Fi'ancojs,) at ihe
distance of about live leaiiues.
In. sailing between Old Cape Francois and the Oianire, hp careful lo keep sulTiciently
to the northward in hauling o(f, that you may not be driven ashore by the current, which
ahvavs sets upon the coast
There is anchorage under the Grange to the west: to take it you must range along
the Frayle, or islet of .Monte Cliristi, and let go your anchor so soon as you have 6 fa-
thoms; but under the south side of Cabras, the westernmost islet, you may anchor far-
ther in, with 4 fathoms. From the ({range you may see the mountains above Cape
Hayticn.
(n approaching this anchorage you must be cautions of a shoal, which lies W. by S.
from Cabras Isle, at the distance of a Inng mile: to kecpcli'ar of it on entering and leav-
ing the anchorage, take care not to bring Cabras Isle to bear any thing to the northward
of E. ^ N., but on the contrary, keep it rather to the southward of that bearing.
The Shoal or Rank of Monte Cluisti extends fourteen miles to the west, and to the
south as far as Aran/.anilla or iMitnehioneiil Point, and it thence continues to border the
coast at tlie distance of half a mile, mote or less, accoiding to its sinuosilies. On this
bank rise the islets named the Seven Hrothers, which are low, and covered with man-
groves. The islet named Monte (irande is the most remarkable of all of them : it is the
aecuud from the eastwaid, and bus high trees upon it. This bank, as well as many
372
^LUNt's AMERICAN c6AST I^ILOT.
hthcrs iti these seas, has a very white bottom, and is very dangerous, because the bottom
is very irregular in its depth, with stones and rocks; you may have eight, and immedi-
ately after three fathoms. You shoulil therefore avoid sailing on this or similar banks
unless they have been well texnmined and sounded.
MANZANILLA IJAY, &c.— To the east of Manzanilla Point there is an excellent
anchorage in Manzanilla Bay; from tbis bay the coast trends in to the S. E. and then
turlis to the west, in which direction it continues to a distance of 8 leagues, when it as-
fcends to the north, and terminatbs with Point Picolet. The Grange Point with Point
Picolet, fonn a great bay, in which, besides Manzanilla Bay, there are two harbors; the
first of these, named Bayaha or Port Dauphin, is to the S. W. of Manzanilla Point, and
iabout two leagues from it ; and the second, at the western extremity of the bay, is kuowo
as Guarico, or the City of Cape Hayticn, or City of the Cape.
The roast from Bayaha to the west, i3 bounded by awhite bank and reef, on the edge of
which there are from 50 to 80 fathoms : between the reef and the coast is a channel, with
two or three fathoms of water, to which there are various passes in the reef, known to
the coasters and piltjts only.
The navigation from (irange Point to Manzanilla Point, should be made on the white
bank of tlie Seven Brothers; it is, therefore, very necessary to know the channel; and,
though you may proceed on the oxitside of the islets and the bank, extending to the
westward, it follows that, in doing this, vessels miist get much to leeward, and are then
obliged to beat up to the anchorage. The delay in following this routfe is not so great
when bound to Bayaha, or Port Dauphin; but the channel for crossing the bank, which
we are about to describe, being very safe, it does not seem requisite that any one should
go round about, but that all should proceed as follows :
Having passed nfear the Grange Point, steer W. ^ S. without going to the southward
of that bearing until you are to the north, or on the meridian of Yuna Point ;* the ves-
sel, having arrived at this situation, should now steer towards Yuna Point, iintil the islet
named Monte Chico, which is the easternmost of the Seven Brothers, bears west;
whence you must steer S. W., leaving to starboard the islet or key Tororu, which is the
southerninost of the Seven Brothers: and when you mark it at about N. by E., you must
steer S. ^ E. luitil you have Mati/aiiilla Point E.^ N., when you must haul to the wind
on the larboard tack to take the aa'-horage, if you can ; ami if not, you must proloui
the stretch to the southward as far as iiecesi-ary, to enable you to get info the bay upon
the other tack, in the uiiderstanditig I'uat you may run along the whole of the south
shore at half a niile, or even less. In running by the way we have pointed out, you will
find upon the bank 7 to 8 fathoms of water, on sandy clay, and you may anchor on aiiv
part of it commodiously, especially to the S. W. of the eastern keys, Monte Chico, and
Tororu ; and it may even be convenient to anchor in case of night coming on, by which
the inconveniences arising from darkness may be avoided.
The edge of this bank is so stbep that, from li* to 20 fathoms, you rapidly pass into
100 fathoms, and of the same nature is Manzanilla Bay; for, from 7 fathoms you pass
to 100 in the short distance of 5 cables' leneth ; from which reason an anchor should
never be let go until the depth has been ?)reviously ascertained by the lead, keepint; in
mind that the best anchorage is in from 0 to 10 fathoms, on a stiff clay bottom, which
the anchors catch well, and at less than half a jnile from the shore.
In the River Tapion, (E.S. E. of Manzanilla Bay,) and also in that of Axabon, to the S.
El water may be conveniently got, and you may rut wood on any part of the coast that
is desert and uncultivated. Jn this bay there are always fresh land breezes, which facil-
itate much the communication between l^avaha and Monte Christi ; for those to whom
the breeze is contrary, navigate at iil",ht by aid of the land breeze. In Manzanilla Bay
no hurricanes are felt, which is aii advant.'ie of great consideration.
THE HARBOR OF BAYAHA OR i'OKT DAUPHIN is one of the finest ports
in Hayti ; for to its rreat extent it adds shelter eeiual to a dock, with an excellent clay
bottom, and the deptn does not exceed 1'2 fatlioms, nor is it less than .') fathoms, whidi
are found at half a cable from the shore; but notwithstanding these singular qualities,
if the diificulty of entering and getting out of it, in consequence of the narrowness and
foulness of the channel or mouth, i.-i considered, it will be seen that it would not an-
swer .'^r any vessel on actual service lo enier and be shut up in a harbor from which she
could not sail, unless at night, w'.tii the land-breeze, and thus exposing herself not only
to the danger of getting aground on the shoals of the entrance, but also, in case of the
land-biteze failing, she may both lose the time lor getting out and the object for doinj
80. The interior of this harbor needi no description, more than the chart, by which it
may be seen that its entrance is otily a cable and two thirds in width ; and this narrow
breadth continues inwards, to the distance of a short mile. The several points whicli
• Yuna Point is a low point, which bears S. W. true, five miles from Grange Point.
' f
are In tiiis
shallow rid
out more I
Again, thi^
take the tu
It is ther('f(
N. E., for
ing well in
out from t
place the |
fi-oni the It
abeam, on
have passe
Dauphin ai
part of the
may be see
to run in n
need never
away, with
you cannoi
sharp rock!
spring tide
THE H
formed by i
the White
to this port
vcn Brothe
with the ve
out fear, wi
but if oblij:
S. E. and J:
placed upor
plentv of sa
be left half
beaiu, they
Those v.l
steer to the
then direct
bank oil' Po
the Grange
thers' Bank
The Con
following fo
descriptions
correction.
" Ships b
coast in the
to distinguii
and very nea
a league aiu
let Point, is
" The m?
S. W. and ?
to project ir
is, that the I
all this pari
tention you
seems to loi
west side ; i
end lies the
a league.
" So sooi
you must sa
gers or keys
ger to atteir
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
373
ccause the toiiom
ight, and immedU
! or similar banks,
ere is an excellent
the S. E. and then
?a^ues, when it as-
! Point with Poim
5 two harbors; the
nzanilla Point, and
f the bay, is known
■eef, on the edpe of
It is a channel, wiih
the reef, known to
made on the white
the channel; and,
k, extending to the
ward, and are thea
ouie is not so great
ng the bank, which
liat any one should
g to the southward
la Point ;* the ves-
'oint, ijntil the islet
thers, bears west;
iiroru, which is the
N. by E., you musi
St haul to the wind
, you must proloni;
info the bay upon
vhole of the south
ointed out, you will
may anchor on any
Monte Chico, and
ming on, by which
lU rapidly pass into
7 fathoms you puss
I an anchor should
le lead, keeping in
clay bottom, which
f Axabon, to the S.
t of the const that
•eezes, which facd- |
for those to whom j
n Manzianilla Bay
e of the finest ports
h an excellent clay
T) fathoms, \vhi(h
singular qualities.
he narrowness and
It it would not an-
)or from which she
n; herself not only
ilso, in case of the
he object for doine
chart, by which it
1 ; and this narrow
veral points which
are In tiiis }irtssai2;e render the entry still morn diirirult. T. ■ risk of this consists in ,i
shalliiw ridge which borders both sides of the cliaiuiel. and wli; . at the puints, stretches
out more than half a cable, and reduces the cliannel to one able's length in width.
Again, this channel being serpentine, it is necessary th;it a ves>el. in rnniiinir in, should
take the turn-t with much dexterity and pr()m|)tiiude, in order to avoid getting aground.
It is thcri'foie necessary to enter this harbor when the broe/" is to the iiortliward of E.
N. K., fw if more scant, an attempt to take the entrance will he impracticable. Keep-
ing well in the middle of the channel, yon pai-s close to the White Sli.tal, which runs
out from the windwar] point of it; and wlien abreast of it you must luff up so as to
place the prow towards the second point on the windward side, so as to free yourself
fi-\)ni the ledge which lies off the second I'oint to K'fwanl ; and so soon as you have this
abeam, on the larboard side, you must lulf up for the last point to windward, till you
h;ive passed the third leeward point, when you may run in and anchor between Port
Dauphin and the little isle called Toiiantes Island, without ai)priiaching near the N. E.
part of the latter, because a shallow bank stretches oii it. From what has been said, it
may be seen that the harbor re<piires no other direction than that of an eye accustomed
to run in mid-channel through a devious |)assage ; and he who knows how to do this,
need never get ashore here; tor his eyes will direct him when to luff and when to bear
away, without particular leading marks. From the mouth to the third leeward point
you cannot anchor, from want of space to turn the vessel, and because the bottom is of
sharp rocks. The tide, at full and chan<;e of the moon, (lows here at 7li. A. M., and
spring tides rise 6', feet, blit neaps only ?>'- feet.
THE HARBOR OF GUARIC0,'OR CAPE HAYTIEN, is no more than a bay,
formed by the coast, and shut to the east and north by a group of reefs which rise upon
the White Bank, extending outward, at this place, more than a league. Those bound
to this port ought to run from the (Grange Point towards Picolet Point, outside the Se-
ven Brothers, and to place themselves so that they may run down towards Point Picolet*
with the ves.^el's head to tlieS. or S. S. W. In this direction they may approach with-
out fear, within the distance of a musket shot, arul may wait for a pilot, as convenient ;
but if obliged to take the anchorage witliout one, they must steer from Point I'icolet
S. E. and S. E. by E., leaving a white flag (if there) on the larboard hand, and which,
placed upon the northern extremity of a reef, serves for a beacon, taking care to carry
plenty of sail to clear a red flag, wliich they will see a little afterwards, and whieh must
be left half a cable's length to the starboard ; and so soon as they have this flag on their
beam, they may steer for the city, and anchor in from 7 to 9 fathon)S.
Those v. ho go out from ^Ianzanilla or Bayaha (Port Dauphin) to tlie cape, ought to
steer to the northward until Picolet Point bears to the southward of the true west, and
then direct their course to the west, as convenient; for they will be clear of the white
bank off Point Pictdet ; but if bound to the east, they must run to the northward until
the Grange Point bears to the southward of the true east, in order to clear the Seven Bro-
thers' Bank.
The Count Chastenet de Puysegur, in his directions for the coast of Hayfi, gives the)
following for Cape Haytien, cVc. These were written in 17H7, but they include some
descriptions not given in the Derrotero, and we therefore insert them here, with a trifhng
correction.
" Ships bound from the eastward to Cape Fran';'ois always make tht5 (Irange: for the!
coast in the environs of the cape olfers nothing remarkable, uidess they be near ciiDUgh
to distinguish the hummock of Picolet. and the rock of that name, lying to the nofth<
and very near the hummock. Having brought Monte Christi to the south, distant about
a league and a half, the proper course, in order to fall a little to the northward of Pico-
let Point, is between the W. S. W. and S. W. by W., distant ') leagues.
" The mark is surer, when you approach the cape from the Grange, in steering \Vj
S. W. and S. W. by W., for in this last position, the hummock of Picolet must appear
to project in the sea luore than the rest of the coast. The best luark that can be given
is, that the hummocks which are to the west of the road of the cape, are the highest o(
all this part; besides, you can distinguish in them larsie white spots. AVith some at-
tention yon will discover Point Picolet, which is lower than the said huminocks, and
seems to lose itself aiuong them. This point terminates the road of the cape on the
west side; in coming near, you descry Fort Picolet itself, built upon the point, at whose
end lies the rock of th'* same name, which is not discernible at a greater distance than
a league.
" So soon as you have descried Fort Picolet, you steer directly against it, because
you must sail very near that fort to enter tlie road, whose opening is bordered with dan-
gers or keys, which you leave on the larboard in coming in. We would advise no stran-
ger to attempt the channel without a pilot, for whom he must wait in the offiug.
374
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT*
•' At half past ten the winri comes to the K. S. E. but it must blow from the N. E.
to
carry you into the harbor, lor you arc oblii^ed to steer S. E. and even E. S. E. The
breeze is very rep;uhir. The l,uid-wind blows in the evening, and often during the
night ; but about 10 or 11 in the morning, after an interval or calm, it turns to tlie E.
N. E. or N. E. So that at 12 o'clock shijjs are abk' to enter the harbor.
The city of ("ape Haytieii is under I'icolet Mount. There is no danger in runnins
in tor I'icolet Point, if you keep it bearing from S, S. W. to S. S. E. iShonld you not
have time to wait for a pilot, you must range along Picolet Point, having it about S. or
S. S. W. at the distance of a short musket shot.
" To sail into the harbor, biinj; Point Picolet to bear S. by W. ^ W. and steer S. } \V.
A remarkable mountain, called the Bishop's Cai). will then be seen directly ahead :
bring this mountain, which appears in three points, in a line with a remarkable hum-
mock, by the waterside, in the iiarbor, which will bear 8. by W. Steering in this di-
rection will lead to the westward of the outer reef, named Le Coque Veille. The water
generally breaks on this reef, which has (or had) a buoy, or white flag upon it. Con-
tinue in '.he same direction, leaving the buoy at the distance of about 15 fathoms on the
larbcud side, until a small rock, standing detached a little from Picolet Point, appears
just open of that point. Now haul to the S. E. or S. E. by S., keeping the rock just
open, and you will pass between the ("oque N'eille and Le (irand iMouton Bank, a bank
having a buoy or flag on its eastern edge, which is ft o.i the starboard side. The I'etit
Mouton, a danger that always breaks, and a shoi, lained Trompeuse, with a buoy or
wliite flag on it, are to be left on the larboard side. You must, therefore, have suffi-
cient sail out to weather rouhd the (irand Mouton Bank, giving the buoy or flag upuu
it a berth of half or two thirds of a cable's length ; and hiving passed it, steer for the
town, and you may anchor where you please, in 8 or') fathoms, good ground.
" A ship cannot enter the harbor unless the wind be at N. E., as she is obliged to
steer S. E. by S., and even S. S. E. The breezes are very regular; they come from
the land in the evening, and very often during night : but at about ten or eleven in the
morning, after an interval of calm, they chop about E. N. E. or N. E. Strong norths
have a great swell into the bay."
The town is on the western side, about 2 miles from Point Picolet, in lat. 19° 46' 20',
long. 72^ It'.
PORT FRANCOIS. — From Point Picolet the coast trends west to Ilonorat Point.
which is the north point of Port Francois, whence a reef stretches out, a cable's lensth
to the N. W. At its extremity arc ,'5 falhoins of water. The anchorage off Port Fran-
cois is in a small bay, and al)ont two cables in extent. Between the points of the bay
there is good shelter from the breezes. To enter, you must run along the edge of the
reef of Honorat, which is on the north side ; and after having gone about two cables to
the S. S. E. you may anchor m d or 10 fathoms, on clayey sand, about S. W. by \V.
from the fort.
BAY OF ACFL. — From the south point of Port Francois, a reef extends as far as
the entrance of the Bay of Acul, without leaving any practicable pass. The Bay oi
Acul is extensive. It has three entrances, but the western is the best, the eastern bein;i
narrow and devious, 'i'he fust entrance is between Rat Isb't and Sandy Islet, situated
on the reefs extending from Port Francois, and which shut in the entrance to the X.
and N. E. That to the N. W. is 'lait iii by other reefs and shoals, which, thoii!;li
among themselves they have only difficult and narrow passages, form an excellent ( ban-
nel with the west coast of the bay. The three cliannels into the harbor are called the
East, the Middle, and the West or Liiiibe. Channels. To enter any one of these chan-
nels, it is necessary to ap|)roach on the outside of the White Bank, extendins along
shore between Port Francr)is and the Bay of Acul until Rat Islet bears 8. by W. ^ V.'.,
attd so soon as you are a league from the Sandy Islet, you will plainly see Trois Maries'
Point, which is the eastern point of the bay ; and approaching nearer, you will also seen
low point on the western side, in the interior of the bay, named I'oint Belie, which is
known by a elumpof trees that is upon it. Having recognized these points bring them
in a line, and steer in with this mark, keeping l»y small variations of course, the depth of
10 fathoms. Thus you will run in mid-channel, which is not more than a cable's leiicili
wide, and the bottom of clay. On both sides of it there are white banks, with 4 fathoms
of water on their edges. It is necessary to notice that you must have recognized liie
two points which serve for the leading mark at two miles from Trois Maries' Point : for
from that distance it is necessary to come in by the mark described. In thick or ha/y
weather, when these objects cannot be seen at the proper distance, you must not aUempt
to enter by this channel. At about four cables' length within, the channel begins to
widen, so that when Rat's Islet, which you leave to the starboard, bears N. W., you
may anchor in from 14 to 18 fathoms. All the reefs which lie within Rat Island are
visible.
To enter
S.by E. I
in 9 fathoii
of a lea^u
to appvoac
or S.E. by
Islet, and \
you may ai
danger in I
but if you I
In case the
will be free
are shelten
The We
site. To e
the west sid
That of Lii
Point Ic;
its being th
league beai
the breakin
there are 5
channel bet
S. E. courf
to pr -^ aboi
to the west
til very neai
avoiding thf
\ on may al
Boucaiid P
down at th(
between Ra
is called the
to make a In
To enter i
three cables
wards the pi
half a cable'
posite. 1-Ia
called the L
ble's length
there are ma
ledge of the
thoins of wa
Between '
about halfa i
taking: care t
not to place
tance betwee
In Acul Bay
tween Trois
ANSK A
of Margot, w
very useful
two miles we
you must ke
you have py
moment you
This happen
bay, there is
depth, and i«
P^OND L
Fond la (jrar
named Palm
west, and aln
of necessity,
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
375
)m the N. E. to
E. .S. E. The
fteii (luring the
turns to the E.
r.
infjer in running
Should you not
n2 it about S. or
ndsteerS. JW.
directly ahead :
eniarkahle buni-
•ering in this di-
ille. The water
; upon it. Con-
5 fathoms on the
't Point, appeal*
in!^ the roci< just
ton Bank, a bank
side. The Petit
, with a buoy or
efore, have suffi-
uoy or rtaa; upon
I it, steer for the
rround.
she is obli:^p(l to
they coTiie from
n or eleven in the
;. Sti'ong northj
n lat. 19^ 46' 20',
o Ilonorat Point,
, a cable's leiisth
ge off Port Friin-
joints of the bay
the ed;ie of the
ut two cal)les to
ut S. W. by W.
extends as far a3
s. The 13 ay oi
le eastern beiiiii
V islet, situated
itraiMO to the N.
s, which, ihonL'li
n excellent chan-
bor are called the
ne of these chan-
extendina alonj
S. by W. \ W.:
;ec Trois Maries'
on will also see a
t Belie, whicii is
)oint.s brinii them
urse, the depth ol"
n a cable's leiisitii
s, with 4 fathoms
recognized the
aries' Point ; for
In thick or ha/y
must not aitem|)t
hannel beains to
ears N. W., you
in Rat Island are
M
To enter by the Middle Channel, you must run outside the bank until Rat Islet bears
S. bv E. h Em ;>"•' placinji; the prow in that direction, sierriiii; that course, and keeping
ill ') laihoins of water, you will pass very near to some reefs w liith are about one quarter
of a league to the northward of Rat Islet. These are easily seen, and it is necessary
to appvoach them within a cable's length, on the larboard hand, aud to luff up to S. E.
or S. E. bv E. to pass alont; the north side of that which stretches to the east from Rat
Islet, and which must be left to starboard. Havin"; once got to the S. E. of Rat Islet,
von niav anchor, as ^^bove stated. All the reefs si.ow clearly, and therefore there is no
dansrei' '" taking this channel when the winds allow you to shape the proper courses ;
but if you cannot do this, you ought not to take it, as there is not room for working in.
In case the wind becomes scant in the chaimel, you uiust anchor in a moment, and you
will be free from danj;cr; for the holdiiiggrouud is very good, being hard clay, and you
are sheltered from the swell of the sea.
The West or Limbe Channel is the best and widest, for you may work in it, if requi-
site. To enter by this channel, run outside the banks or shoals, until Point league, on
the west side, bears south. This point lies bntween Limbe and Grand Boucand Points.
That of Limbe is the north-westernmost, and has an islet at its base.
Poiiil league is easily known by the scarjied or blulf rocks which form it; and from
its being the only one of any elevation lying to the soutli of Limbe. So soon as Point
league bears south, steer towards it, and as you get near it you will see, to larboard,
the breaking of a reef of connidt^rable extent, named Co(|ueveille, on the edge of which
there are 5 fathoms of water ; liaving recogniy.ed this reef, taking care to pass in mid-
channel between it and Point Icasjue, in 10 or l.'j fathoms of water, and with nearly a
S. E. course, with which you must rim in, amending successively a little to the east,
to pr - about 3 or 4 cables' length from (inmd Boucand Point. Yon may then anchor
to the west of Trois Maries' Point. If obliged to taek, you must prolong the tacks un-
til very near the reefs, on the supposition that their breakers afford the best marks for
avoiding them ; and that, at the very edge of them, there are .5 and 6 fathoms of water.
\ on may also prolong the tacks to a cable from the coast, without any risk ; for though
Boucand Point is foul, the reefs show above water, and have 8 and 10 fathoms up and
d(t»'ii at their edsre. The anchorage, or place which we have assigned for anchoring,
between Rat Islet, Trois Maries' Point, and Boiicmu Pomu, is not properly that which
is called the Bay of Acul ; but as there is good shelter in it, those who have no occasion
to make a long delay, or to discharge, may avoid enterina the bay.
To enter the Biiji of Arul, you must not apjiroach Trois Maries' Point nearer than
three cables' lenjith. for it is (oul and sliallow ; and so soon as you are jiast it, steer to-
wards the point of Morne Rouge. (Red Hill,) or the east, which you must pass at about
half a cable's length, in order to give a bertli to a shoal which lies olT Belie Point, op-
posite. Ha"ing i)asseil Morne Rouge Point, you will see a fine cove, on the same side,
called the Ijombard Cove, in whicli you may anchor in 7 fathoms water, at about a ca-
ble's length tVoiu the shore. From this cove southward, into the interior of the bay,
there are many stioals ; and no one should p ss the cove who has not a i)ractical know-
ledge of them. In the route above described, you will always find from 10 to 15 fa-
thoms of water, on clay.
Between Trois Maries' Point and that of Morne Rouge, in a line with them, and
about half a mile from the first, there is a shoal of small extent, which you will shun by
taking care to pass at not less than ihrne cables' length from TVois Maries' Point, and
not to place the ship's head towanU Morne Rouge Point until you are at half the dis-
tance between the two points. The anchorage of the Lombard Cove is a natural rock.
In Acul Bay it is difficult to get water ; the best is on the eastern side of the cove, be-
tween Trois Maries' anil Morne Rouge Points.
ANSE A CllOITCIlor, OR CHOUCIIOU BAY.— To Point Limbe follows that
of Margot, which has a roiiml islet, lying rather farther out than that of Limbe. It is
very useful to make this islet, in order to direct yourself to Chouchou Bay, wjuch lies
two miles west from it. In this bay there is a good depth of 6 or 7 fathoms : to enter it
yon must keep towards the e;tst point, which has (i fathoms close to it; and so soon as
you have passed it, and (he vessel begins to lose headway, you may anchor; for the
moment you enter under the point the biee/.e calms, and the little you have comes ahead.
This happens even when tlie wind is very fresh without the bay. To the west of this
bay, there is a small one, called La Rivii'ue Salee, or Salt River Cove, which has little
depth, and is fit for siiinll (raft only.
FOND LA (tRA.N(JE — Four miles westward from th'! Bay of Chouchou is that of
Fond la (jrange, or the Grange Bottom, 600 fathoms broad, antlthe west point of which,
named Palmiste, is distinguished by a chain of reefs extending nearly a league to the
west, and almost to Point d'lcague. Fond la Grange is a good roadstead, and in case
of necessity, a ship of the line may ride in it ; for throughout it there are not less than 6
I
376
BLUNT's A51ERICAN COAST PILOT,
JJ '11
fathoms water, and at less than a cable's length from the shore. To enter in it, yon
must pass near the east jioml, anil anehor in about the middlu of the bay, on clayey
8anil. At a short league v.L.Mv.iiid Ironi raimiste I'oint lies that of Jcague. The coast
between is fonl, uith sunken reels, wliieh advance half a league out to sea.
PUKT PAlX. — Eight miles (rom I'oint d'lcague is that of the Carenage, which \n
the northernmost headlajid ot this part of the coast, and wh:ch, from a distance, may be
mistaken lor Point d'lcaj;ue. The coast between is very clear. From this point the
coast trends :S. W. by .s, to form the cove of Point I'aix. To enter here you must
avoid the east shore, because from a point which lies a little to the N. E. of the town,
a reef stretches out about a cable's length, and iunnediately without it there is a depth
of 13 fathoms, with oo/y sand. To avoid this reef, keep in the middle of the entrance,
which has only three cables' length in breadth, and anchor to the N. VV. from the town,
in ]'J or 13 fathoms, on clayey sand, about a cable apd a half from the shore.
CHAiN.NEL UE TUKTUE. — iNcarly north from Point d'lcague is the east ^oint
of Tortue or 'J'ortugas Island, which extends nearly east and west, and, in that dnec-
tion is about (> leagues in extent, but only 1 from N. to S. All its north side is iron
bound, and sleep to, and the south side is for the most part bounded by a white shoal
and reefs. The only good anchorage in Tortue is that of Basseterre, on its south side,
at a league and a ball from the east point. It is formed by the shore and the reefs which
run out liom it, and no vessel drawing more than 14 or 15 leet can enter it. The pas-
sage is narrow, but easy to fetch. \ ou must keep the weather reefs on board, leaving
them on the starboard hand, and steer N. N. \V. and N. to double the reefs you leave
on the larboard hand. Do not bi; afraid of coming near the land, and anchor in good
ground so soon as you have brought the lee reef to bear S. W. Large ships may come
to anchor outside the reef, upt." white ground, a mile to leeward of Basseterre.
To the eastward of Basseterre, towards Portugal or the east point, there are several
bays or coves, in which boats or sehooneis may anchor, but nothing of a larger size.
The chuinel which the isle Torcue forms with liayti, is 6 uules wide, and lit for
every class of vessels, which may commodiously beat in it, and often with great advan-
tages for getting to windward, when the currents in it run to the eastward, which they do
for the greater i)art of the year ; for raiel), and only during souths, do they change their
direction to west. In the latter case, it is necessary to advance northward, and get 6 or
7 leagues from the Tortue, to beat to windward. When beating in the Tortue Ohan-
nel, you ought to stand on within less than a mile of the coast on every tack ; for to-
wards the coasts the current is stronger, and the wind nure favorable, than in mid-chnn-
nel. As there are several bays on each side, the setting of the current is neither uni-
form nor in the same direction. You will sometimes see it run in numerous directions;
and sometimes, in the middle of the channel, it will run contrary to the current in shore.
PORT PAlX TO ST. NICOLAS' MOLE.— Four leagues from Port Paix lies
Port Mous'i(iue. The coast between is clear, and blutf or scarped. Port Moustiqiie
has scarcely an opening of 4 cables' length: its bottom is unequal, and impeded wjih
rocks, whicli render it necessary to examine it with the lead before you let go an anchor;
for between the two outer j)oinis you cannot hud bottom with 40 fathoms of line.
At a league and a half from I'ort Mousti(|ue is Port a TEcu, and the coast between
the two is rocky, steep to, and blutf. This cove is better than Port iMoustiiiae, but not
60 easy for large ships, as its entrance is narrow, in consequence of a reef which stretches
otf about two cables' length from its eastern point, and upon which there is not more
than 3 fathoms water. To take this anchorage, it is necessary to keep near to the reel's
ofl' the east point, and liaul by the wind, ranging along the reef, to anchor in 8 or 10 la-
Jthoms in the centre of the cove, on clay, ai)d about N. N. E. from a house which is at
the bottom of the bay.
Six miles from Port al'Ecu is the anchorage of .Jean Rabel, which is good, safe, ant!
easy to take. On approaching this place you ought, without any fear, to approximaie
the reef on the east side, which has 10 fathoms close to its edge. The anchorage tor
large ships is about two cables' length from the eastern breakers, in Ti or 15 fatlioins;
and care must be taken not to shut in the two points which are on the east coast, lor
though it is possible to run farther in, yet it is not advisable ; for the depth suddenly di-
ntinishes, and the bottom is not very clean.
.Should you be to the north-west of .lean Rabel, at a short league's distance from the
land, and have half the island of Tortue open with the point, you will find 00 fathoms ol
water, oo/.y ground, and a little farther out f*0 fathoms.
From Jean Rabel the coast forms a great bight to the southward, as far as the penin-
sula, called Presqu' Isle, or the Mole, the western point of which, called the Mole Point,
ies 13 miles W. S. W. from it. All the shore between is rocky, and does not oHerany
shelter. At all times the currents here are very perceptible near the shore, and gene-
Irally set on it. At two leagues in the otfing they are less so, and run to the north-east.
Near the peninsula they are much stronger, and commonly set towards the north.
i
•1
ST. NK
Rt itsentra
doubled th
on the son
ground, "I
age is l)el'o
gjing in, yi
land with s
Within
ver to watt
When it bl
letting go.
The Der
hank, whic
3 and 4 fall
about a cab
a battery.
E, -id of il
prolong the
east. You
above menti
tack in time
let go an an
which is we
ricanes.
In going (
trance ; and
of Fool's C;
the coast th«
la Pcrle, or
The sea-l)
and blows ve
S. K. It CO
to the northv
to slacken en
Dir
In ailvancii
tue Island a
you will desc
The land ti
dually towari
on the same i
tain, smooth
this, to the s
are both 10 o
the water sidf
approach, a h
saddle-land,
described.
MANZArs
zanilla Bay.
part of it.
The Seven
them. Tlier
approach the
advancing inl
mile from shi
The River
falls into the
impossible, to
To anchor
Point, and dn
Spanish line,
as easy to go
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
377
enter in it, you
e bay, on clayey
fjue. Tlie coast
sea.
renage, wliicli \n
Jistance, may be
ni tliis point the
r liere you must
. E. ol'tlie town,
; tlieie is a depth
of tlie entrance,
I. from the town,
iiore.
is llic east point
d, in that dnec-
jrtli side is iron
by a white slioal
un its soiitli side,
d the reefs which
ter it. The pas-
on board, leaving
e reefs you leave
I anchor in good
! ships may come
isselerre.
here are several
a larger size,
wide, and lit for
with great advan-
(1, which they do
they change their
ard, and get G ur
lie Tortue (Hian-
pry tack ; for to-
lan in niid-chnn-
t is neither iim-
erous directions;
current in siioie.
Ill Port I'aix lies
Port Mousli(|ue
id impeded wiih
et go an anchor;
us of line,
e coast between
)usti(iae, but not
f which stretches
jcre is not more
luear to the reel's
lor in 8 or 10 la-
use which is at
good, safi% an!
to approxinnie
|ie anchorage lor
or 15 fathoms;
east coast, (or
Ipth suddenly di-
jstance from the
lid ()0 fathoms of
["ar as the penin-
l the Mole Poini,
les not od'cran)
[hore, and gene-
the north-east.
Ithe north.
ST. NICOLAS' MOLE, BAY OR TIARr>OR.--This harbor is larce and spacious
nt itsentrance, but narrowstowards the town, whi'h you will descry as soon as you have
doubled the cape. Vou may stand very close to d'her shore, but it is advisable to allow
on the south side more room for veerinij than on the north side, as there is no anchoring
ciouiid, which you have on the north side, tlioui;li very near the shore. The anchor-
ace is before the town, and under the barracks, in 15 or IH fathoms, siindy bottom. In
ff jing in. you must be prepared against the pull's or squalls, which come down from the
land with such violence as to endanger t)ie masts.
Within the bay or^haibor you will be sheltered from every wind. 'J'here is a fine ri-
ver to water at, and places where a ship iii;iy be ciireened with her side to the shore.
When it blows hard it is difficult to get to the anchorage ; and if you are not quick in
letting go, the anchor may fall from 6 to .'JU and ;J5 fathoms.
The Derrotero says that the north co;ist from C'ape Si. Nicolas, sends out a white
bank, which stretches about one third of a cable from the slioif, and on which (here aro
3 and 4 fathoms water. The south shore has also its white bank, which extends out
about a cable's length from an interior point S. W. of the town, upon which thpre is
a batteiy. From this point the white bank extends directly to the Fort Point, the N.
E. ■ id of the town; and, therefore, when to the northward of that point, you must not
prolong the tack to the south farther than to brina; the north jiart of the town to bear
east. Vou should also bo aware, that on 'he south roast, and a little to the west of the
above mentioned point, no bottom has been found ; therefore you ought to look out and
tack in time. On (he northern tack lliea; is not s(» much danger; for it is jiossible to
let go an anchor, although it must be done v ly near to the shore. Jn the anchorage,
which is well sheltered from all winds, vessels pa.ss the dangerous season of the hur-
ricanes.
In going out you will see, to the southward, the point of the cape which forms itsen-
trance ; and farther to the southward you will then descry the Point du Cap a Foux, or
of Fool's Cape. The latter lies 5', miles to the southward of .'^t. Nicolas Point ; and
the coast thence extends 2.^ leagues more, nearly in the same direction, to the Point a
la Pcrle, or Pearl Point.
The sea-breeze at the Mole is from N. K. by N. It comes on at 8 in the morning,
and blows very strong till 10 or 11 at night. Tiie land-breeze comes on moderately at
S. E. It continues till (i ii; the morning, tliendies a« ;iy. and it is calm till 8. If bound
to the northw;,rd, ships generally weigh aj d or 10 at night, when the sea-breeze begins
to slacken enough to run them out.
Directions for Shij))i bound to Cape ITa;/firji, S^r.,from the Wctitu-ard.
In advancing from the westward towards Cape Haytien, give the N. E. part of Tor-
tue Island a good berth ; and after you get to windward of the east end of the island,
you will descry the cape. ^
The land to the west of Port Paix shuts, to the northward, a low point, and rises gra-
dually towards the south to a high mountain, with a sugar-loaf top, and then it declines
on the same side to a large valley, whence it rises quickly to a prodigious high moun-
tain, smooth at the toj), and the highest land in this part of Hayti. The high land after
this, to the southward, is of sugar-loaf form, with a little one to the south of it, which
are both 10 or 12 miles in the country. The next high land, or point, which is seen by
the water side, is Cape Ihiytien. 'J'he land, at (list, makes like a saddle ; but on nearer
approach, a low point will apjiear, which sliuts from the eastward the eastern [)art of the
saddle-land. This is Point Picolet, or the Cape Land, the extremity of the cape already
described.
MANZANILLA BAY. — Ships from the westward may with safety proceed toMan-
zanilla Bay. It is quite clear, and you may approach within one third of a mile in every
part of it.
The Seven Brothers, which have been described, are mostly barren, with reefs about
them. There is some wood upon them, and plenty of (ish all round. You need not
approach the western part of them nearer than two leagues, until you sec the bay. On
advancing into this, there will be found 10 lathoms water, at about three quarters of a
mile from shore.
The River Massacre, formerly a boundary of tho Spanish and Haytien territories,
falls into the bay, to the eastward of Port Daujihin; init it will be very difficult, if not
impossible, to water there, as you must go up the river nearly two leagues to obtain it.
To anchor properly, so as to have the best shelter, run along the inside of Manzanilla
Point, and drop it in b fathoms, muddy bottom. All the anchoring places are within the
Spanish line, where the land is low, marshy, and covered with mangroves. The bay is
as easy to go in a.s to get out, leaving regular land and sea-breezes, and beicg quite se-
48
378
Blum's americaiv coast pilot.
ctire from any swell. A ship, haviiii; lost her anchors, may run in upon the mtiddv
shore. 'I'lie landing is very easy, line i>< game and lish ; and bulloeUs, cows, and hofs,
may be piirchastMl,
'I'he HOAD (JF jMON'l'K CHRIS Tl is more open than Manzaniila Bay, although
in it there is good am lior;\i;e, well sinltcred from the N. K., E., and S. K., wliidi arc
the strung hree/es ; and (iuiing tlie nortlis you may anchor in 5 or 4 fathoms, under
Cabra, the isiet oliMome Cluisli. Tlie same resources may be found here as in Mim-
zaniila Hay.
" The anchorage at the Grange," says an able navigator, '* is less spacious than that
under Point Vsai)t'iia, but it is iiiure shchered from tiie norths by the ish-t. Ten ships
of war might easily be anchored, in from f) to 7 fathoms, within |)istol shot of this isht,
which makes half a le r;uc distance from the islet to the reef that is as (ar from the sborp.
We had four strong brec/rs. wliich uii^'ht be called gales of wind, yet we rode with onlv
half a cable, and had not occasion to freshen hawse.
"The islet ("abras, or Cabra, is u'siily half a circle of 'JOO fathoms diameter, anr| his
a hillock about the height and length of :5() feet, with a cut in the middle, of near 10 tn.
thorns; and this is wh.il bveaks oil' the sea and winds. The French had made thcrp a
very good salt-work, which the Spaniards have let go to ruin. It differs from lliose it
Turk's Islands, produces belter salt, and is more convenient, as you may introduce the
salt water as you wai.t it, in the several pans.
" The landing is easy every where. Very good hay is made on the island : it is a kind
of dog's grass, which they pull up by the roots. That which grows by the river's side
is coarser. The river (St. .lago) is one league from the island to the .S. W. of the town,
and marked by a tuft of trees. Tlie water is very good, and easily got. The boat ninv
go in at hi<;h water, and at about half a cable's length within, you will find it fresli, t|;,
current being so strong that the salt water cannot get in. You have commonly a qiuii-
ter-wind to (etch it in, and bring it back. Here is very good (ishing. and you may himl
the seine, as well as near the shore. On the larboard side of the town, about a leacus
from the shore, it is good shooting. You will lind plenty of wood-pigeons and Imin
fowls."
The Western Coasts of Ilayti or St. Domingo, hclween St. Nicolas' Mole and CajJt
Tiburon.
In proceeding from St. Nicolas' Mole, as already observed, you will descry to the
southward the I'oiiit du Cap au Foux. or of Fool's Cape, which lies 5', miles to the
southward of St. Nicolas' Point; and the coast thence trends U^ leagues more, nearly in
the same direction, to the Point de la Pcrle, or Pearl Point.
This part of the coast is steep, without any shelter; but here it is generally a calm.
The currents in-shore set to the northward, and two leagues in the oiling, to the \V.
and W. S. W.
PLATTF-FORME OR PLATFORM, cScc— From Point de la Perle the coaM
rounds to the south-eastward and cast, to the point of the Platform, which is at the dis-
tance of 3 leagues trom the Ibrmer. This point is easily distinguished, as well by its tlat
form as by its being the southermuost of this j)art of the island. The anchorage is br-
fore a small sandy cove, at the boitoiii of which some houses are seen. You anchor
near the shore in H or 10 lalhoms, weedy bottom. At this place water luay be obtaind
after rains, but there is none to be had at other times.
'Jo anchor under the J'la/J'ornt, briiia its southernmost point E.by S., the westerninnsi
point in sight \V. N. Vv'., the watering place N. N. E. Then come to in about 9 la-
thorns. In deeper water the s'iuiiik! is foul ; and the nearer the shore the clearer the
bottom. The bank is very steep (or two cables' length. Without, 10 fathoms souini-
ings will not be found. The b.iy is \ei\ convenient lor cruizing ships tu heel and boot-
top in, cVc.
Front, the Platform Point to Point a Pierre, on the north side of the entrance of li:r
Port of (Jonaives, the bearing and distaiue are E. lH° S., 10 leagues. The point is
high and steep, and all the coast between is safe, and may be ranged very near. There
is anchorage, even (or large ships, at Hennc Hay and at Port Piment, but it ought tu iif
used only in case of necessity. In the winter months there are tornadoes or gales of
wind almost every night, coming from the S. E., some of which are violent ; and unless
you have business on this part of tlie coast, it is best to stand olf two or three leagues,
60 that you may. with any wind, keep to the westward.
GONAIVES. — The bay of (lonaives or Connaheeves, as the French pronounce it, is
very large and fine, the anchorage excellent, and the entrance very easy. You ran^'e
along the shore, at half a league or two miles distance, steering nearly east, and let j!0
your anchor in from 10 to 6 fathoms, ooze. You will find from the entrance under Gu-
Tiaivi's I'd!
Wilier ib'i
iuiiil, and t
After you
Castries oi
lies abciit :
Observe
distance of
(.'apfiiin
of cuhtaiiii
it is (tl' viMi
ral)li's' leii;
'.'(/ -11". aiK
Siiips in
north side
siiilit, bean
inid-cliaiiiK
the harbor,
small lull, a
have 7 latin
0 fallDins,
f.'!). I have
lliuins; but
turtii E. ,i >
The souii
inirks for rii
viiu must IK
the soiitliwa
on witli the
distance tba
tlie south si(
and alter tlia
ST. MAI
the Bay of (
seven league
«!iieli appeal
Mniiie au I)
tilionife, whi
ai,'e the who!
Cape St. I
hillock wnici
The opeiii
league uithii
to in of the b
into less wate
piece of foul
a reef stretcl
Tilt foUoivim^
About 9 le
alijuit this cu:
which lasts ti
that time, be
naives, you n
ble distance,
island, which
fathoms of w
fathoms.
"About tw
farther south
to keep your
about 4 fatho
"Thispjac
all aloag to tl
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
379
upon tlie mudriv
i, COWS, and ho|;s,
lla Hny, Jihhntigl,
S. K., wliicli HI-,.
4 latlHims, under
I liero ns in Man-
pacious thnn thai
islrt. Trn ship,
1 shot of this i^lct,
liu- lioni the sliorc.
we rode with unU
(liamrtcr, ntid his
hlle, of near 10 i,.
had made thnc a
Hers from tliose at
nay introduce tb
island : it is a kind
hy the river's side
S" W. of the town,
)t. The linnt niav
ill find it fresh, tl;'(
commonly a qiini-
and you may hmil
wn, about a leagiifi
pigeons and Indii
;' Mole and Cape
vill descrv to the
les o ,
miles to tli
lies more, nearly m
penerally a calm.
oiling, to the \V.
Perle the coa<i
lich is at the dis-
d, as well hy its flat
inchorage is be-
een. You anchor
r may be obtained
., the westernmnst
to in about [I la-
)re the clearer the
[{) fathoms souml-
to heel and bout-
le entrance of the
>s. The point i^
very near. Theif
hut it ought tu he
ladoes or gales of
iolent -, and unless
or three leagues, [•
h pronounce it, is |
easy. You ranie •
ly east, and let so '
ntrauce under Gu-
waives Point, which is low, and one mile east of Point Pierre, 1.0 ami 12 fathoms: the
water dt'Cccises as you get into the bay. When you are a uood half league from the
|,iiid, and two miles from the Debercadaire, (or landing place.) y(m will have h fathoms.
After you have doiiiiltMl the |)oiiit, leaving it on your larboard hand, you will see Fort
Castries on a point of land, which you must nut approach too near, as there is a key tliat
lies abdiu a mile south tif the point.
Observe that from the south point of the entrance, a reef extends to the N. E. to the
distance of a (ptarter of a mih;. It is nearly steeji to from (> I'at horns.
(■aj)tain Mackellar says that the harbor of (ionaives is an excellent one, and capable
of coijtaining any ninnber of ships of the lartjest si/.e, conipletily shni from all winds;
it is ol very easy access, and uem-rally clear, excepting a small reef that t'xiends about 2
rabli's' length from K(Mt Castries, on the north side. The latitude of the town is iy°
•JO -II". and its longitude 7J-' -H' 7" W. \'ar. fy' '>()" K. 1HI7.
•Ships intending to anchor at (Jonaives, and having advaiKcd to PoitU I'evis, on the
noitli side of the entrance, will gain soundings in 1,') or K) fathoms, am) have the town in
siiiht, bearing about K. by N. tlu-y may proceed for tiie lownon that bearing, keepins in
niid-cliaiiiiel, or any way lu'ar it ; then soundings will lie very regular. When well up
the liaibor, you will see I'ort Castries, which stands on liic north side, on the top of a
small hill, about a mile without the town. Wlien this fort bears N. by K. .V H. you will
have 7 latiidiiis in mid-channel, fine solt mud. Wlu-n it bc.us N. by W. \ W. in 5.'; or
0 fath;)ins, this seems to be the best anchorage, and as close in as a ship of war ought to
go. 1 have l)een so far up the h trbor as to have I''iut Castries btMring N. W. in 4 fa-
iliuins: but the best anchorage is with it bearing N. by W. .', W. aiul the middle of the
town K. T N. nearly in inid-eiiamiel.
The soundings all over the harbor are so very rc/nlar, tliat U is not necessary to have
marks for running in and out by ; but in the event of iiaving to beat with the sea breeze,
you must not stand too near Fort Castries, as there is ;■■ smaJI reef extending from it to
the southward : the mark for keeping clear of this reef, is a Infje ;ite behind the town
on with the iiorih(!rniiiost houses, bearing F. bv N'. ; but this reef stretches to so short a
distance that a ship will scarcely stand so near the shore as to touch it. In standing to
the south side of the harbor, give the shore a good berth luiti! without the inner point,
und after that von mav stand from shore to shore, bv your lead, withsafetv.
ST. .MARC, OR ".ST. MARK.— From Point St. Pierre, without the entrance of
the Bay of (fonaives, the distance to Cape .St. Mark, in a direction nearly south, is nearly
seven leagues. A leauue and a half to the northward of St. Mark's Bay is a low point,
which appears at a distance like an island, and forms a ca))e that is called La Point du
Monie au Diable, or the Devil's Blutf Point : it points out the mouth of the River Ar-
tihoiiite, which fdls intothe sea two miles northward of the point. There is au anchor-
age the w hole length of this coast for small vessels only.
Cape St. Mark is high, and of a round form ; you will descry at a great distance the
hillock wnich forms it, and stands only one mile from the sea side.
The opening of the l?ay of St. Mark, lies to the norih of the cape; it extends one
league within the land, and the water in it has a great depth. Ships anchor in the bot-
tom of the bay under the town, in l.'i or 18 fathoms of water; small vessels may come
into less water, but they will be very near the shore. In the south side of the bay is a
piece of toiil ground, extending two miles from a blulf |)oiiil to the S. E., and on which
a reef stretches out about two cables' length from the coast.
Titc following Discrij)tinn of I'le yuri^^afinn. fxiirnn Ihr P!a'fiirin and Si. Mark, is given
bi) Qipt. Ilculrr, an ciiiiuent l-^iislish iiavi<!;ulur.
About ') leagues ea<stward of the I'latfonn is the fine bay and harbor of Gonaives. All
alonij this coast you are sure, about 10 o'clock in the forenoon, to have the sea breeze,
which lasts till nijht, and then you have the wind olf shore ; thercfoie you may stay till
that time, before which there is little or no wind at all. If yon intend to go into Go-
naives, you must keep a good distance off the south point, which is flat for a considera-
ble distance. When you are about the point open with the bay, you will descry a small
island, which you must leave on your larboard side and run in with your lead in 10 or 12
fathoii\s of water. You may also run along close by the island if you choose, in 4 or 5
fathoms.
'• About two leagues to the southward of Gonaives is Artibonite Point, and two leagues
farther south. Artibonite River. In sailins: froi.i (jonaives to the latter place, it is good
to keep your lead ; for, as you come near the rivi v, you will find the water shoaleu to
about 4 fathoms, and after that deepening a^ain to 7 or « fathoms.
" This place is very remarkable, the land being high and uuev en and a bold clear shore
all along to the northward, from the Platform to Gonaives. Wheu you have run 8 pr 9
380
BLUNT « AMERlfcAN COAST tMLOt.
lea;:ups K. S. K. | K. y<m will ilicn see tlip l;iti(I alieiid, or eastward, v(»ry low by tlie
wairr side and prtxli^ions mountiiiiis over •' ; this lc»w laud rfaclics iVorii <>otiaiveHio
tliu sdiitliwai'd of Arlilioniie Kivor, alunit a iiiili> ; and it.i soiitii end, Noniewhat hi^licr
tiian liie rest, a[i|)cars hki; a table land, ovriMjrou u with wet-ds and green fr«'«'M ; ibis j<)
the Devil's HlulK: round its south en.! is the May of St. Mark, the other point of wbidi
yon can see to the S. W. of tlif Devil'' Illiiff. To anchor off the river brini,' the south
end ol tli»r low land to bear south three miles distant, and as you run in. you will see fivt;
or six small houses by the water side; l)>-in^ them to bear K. S. E. two miles; then the
river will bear .S. K. On the starboar'' sidfc, <<r ihc south side of the entrance of ibe
river, there is likewise a snudi hole w'. ■ y<''« mny sec. Be sure to keep these beiir-
in»s, and you will be u|)on a fun' level 1>, where you may anchor in what water von
please, from 'JO to d fathoi 's. Hut ify ,o within "i miles of the shore you willdropnii
that bank from (> fathoms to -JO, the next ciist ; then TjO or bd, and then 90 or 100 (ailidins.
within less than half a mile of tiie shore, and from that to 5 at once. When you mi
at anchor at Artibonite,you may see the IMatlbrm, bearinj; VV. N. W. about 10 leagut ;.
" Artibonite River is not a place of qrisit note, because it ebbs almost dry at low w,,.
ter ; neither is there any town in this place, but oidy some plantations live or six miles up
the river; there you can have i;ood water but no wood. The sea wind comes on at iiooii
at N. W. tid 10 "at mjilit, and the land wind at H. by S. till H in the morning."
From St. Mark's Point the coast of Uayfi trends nearly S. K. true, six and a li;ilt
leasjues to f^a Soulfriere, or V a/es I'oinf, and thence E. S. E. five leaaues. to I'ori an
Prince. The coast is £;cnerally dean and bold, and you may run alon^^ jt at ihedistimre
of a mile, in 10, 15, and 'iO fathoms of water. In proceeding thus, you will fiisi per-
ceive I'le .Ma^a/.iir- of Moiitroui, ami afterw.uds the villa<!;es of Arcahais or Arcali;ivf,
and IJoucassin ; and finally the city of I'oit an Prince. OH' the roast, at about Imli
way between St. Mark's Point and INtrt an Prince, are three small islets, called the Ar-
caditis, which are situate ^ nearly a league from the shore, and separated by chaniieU
about half a inile in breadth. Near these islets, on every side, the de[)ths are 5 and d
fathoms.
To the E. by S. of Boncassii:, and very near the coast, is Mouton or Sheep Key. A
passage oiiiiht never to be attempted within this key ; near.it, on the outside, the coast \<
clear and water deep. About two leagues to the southward of this island is the roiul-
stead of Foso : this to the N. E. and fjamentin Point to the S. W. form the enlranrcoi
the liay of Port au I'rince. To the westward of this roadstead is an extensive lumk,
with a cluster of islets, of whicli the easternmost is distant about two miles from Konq
Roadstead, and the southernmost three miles iVoin Lameiitin Point. There are, beside^,
two other islets, which lie almost in the direction of the two points of the bay, and whuh
are four miles from Foso Road, and two from rjamentin Point.
PORT AU PRLNT'E.*— The shore at the bottom of Port au Prince Bay is vciv
foul, and has a larce group of isletv. These h)rm the inner anchorage ; and to ijiiiii
this, the aiti of a pilot is indispensable; but the Grand Road is without the reefs, and
may be entered without a pilot.
Those bound to Port au Prince from the N. W., after having made St. Mark's Point,
may shape tiieir course, either to pass between the Arcadins and the coast, or between
ihein and tin? island Conave : the first appears to be the best route, for thus tlie foul
grounds on the S. E. side of Gonave must be avoided : it is also to be observed that the
wind in the channel is generally from the .\. E.; the nearer, therefore, you pass to tlie
Irtain land, the more free will you run to the eastward. Again, aliimst every al'ternoun,
In the rainy season, there are tornadoes in the channel, which compel vessels to lip to,
and to keep on boards or tacks, that they may nc t fall upon the reefs of Gonave. If vdu
can foresee the siale, it will be l)est to gain an anchorage near Arcahais Point, and tiiPip
ride it out.f When past the Arcadins, yoiir course will be about S. E. by S. to get near
Lainentin Point. If caught by night to the eastward of this point, here you may an-
chor. From the point to the anchorage of Port au Prince, the distance is four niijps;
and to make it you must steer towards the city, and anchor about half a mile outside the
islets, in 10 or 15 fathoms.
The channel between the Arcadins and coast is two miles wide, and in the middle of it
you will never have more than 28, nor less than 10 fathoms. The water decreases to-
wards the Arcadins to 6 or 8 fathoms coraily ground; at thesatne distance from the op-
posite shore is the like depth with muddy bottom.
From Pearl Point to the entrance of St. Mark's Channel, mid-way between Cape St.
♦ See Plan by Com. R. Owen, published by E. & G. W. Blunt, 1833.
+ Or, you may anchor to the northward of Lcogane, on the south side of the channel, upon the
ground extending from Gonave Island, as shown iu the chart.
Mark, HiK
Thi* «ili
Mill may c
cadiiis.
Should
,', E. in ori
about lorn
make Poii
Vou may
which In;
iii^lii, y(Mi
will liiid I;
Vou ina
nave as to
within hall
'Hie Arc
a mill-, or
SOlltll-WCSl
ground to
(;().\A\
and W. N.
This i-ilii
llie l'iil|ii\t ii
'1 he ino^
which is sit
the land of
about f'tU) i(
in an urgen
prudent, e.-
irrcguliu-.
N. N. E. ai
.Small vc<
the Little (i
The N. ^
stretches ah
fathoms) opi
where there
To sail n«
coming fidii
several othc
About 8H fa
let, or (Jalet
the places tc
which are vi
the seii.
The seve
Marc, (tram
maiiider of I
and you lint
The westi
but it is not
of small (let!
in that part,
well ac(|uait
'i'lie only
Bale du Pai
point of the
reel's, which
Roche
still niudi fi
lies in the c
M. Le Com
reef. I wen
I landed on
of all the ob
its breadth t
length 3155
v-c:/
nMJIVT*S AMKUICAN COASt Plt.OT.
381
very low by ili*
nim (•otiiiiveM to
somewliiit liiiilicr
em tre»'» ; this is
;r point of mIik li
r briiiii the souih
, you will Hcp live
3 miles; then ilic
! entriiticc ol till
kff|) these bpiir-
ti what water von
?you willdidpdtl
10 or 100 laliioins.
When you an
iiboiit 10 ieamif .
ist dry nt low «,,.
ve or six miles u;i
comes on at iiumi
irnin;j;."
lie. six and a hnli
aanes, to I'ori an
; it at the dist;inie
,011 will frist pcr-
liais or Arcalinvf,
ist, at about hull
•ts, called the Ar-
iiaied by channeU
epths arc 5 and''
r Sheep Key. A
itside, the coast i^
sland is the road-
rill the entrance ol
1 extensive bank,
miles from [-'o-o
rhereare, beside*,
he bay, and whiiii
rince Bay is vciv
rajje ; and to ^m
ut the reefs, ami
St. Mark's Point,
oast, or between
for thus tlie I'unl
observed that tlie
, you pass to tlie
every aftenuioii,
vessels to lie to,
(Jonave. If yiiU
Point, and llieic
by S. to get near
lere you may an-
:e is four miles;
mile outside the
n the middle of it
Iter decreases to-
nee from the op-
jctween Cape St.
: channel, upon the
Maik, and the l.sland of (lonave, the course nnd dixtanre are S. K. \ K.«ixtrcn h-aguest
Till, wdl biiuy; yon to the westward o| (ape St. M.uk. for which von may Hieer. or,
you may lonlinue tin? same course six kauues larilit r, vvliii h will ji-iid clear oi the Ar-
cadiiLS.
Should It be nijrht when you enter the chaiint 1 of St. Mark, you should steer S. 8. K.
y E. in order to clear the Arcadins and the eastern end of (ionave Island. Having luii
about lour leaifiies on this track, the course will Ue alioiil S. K. by K. live leauues, to
make I'oiiit Lameniiii, which is (>n the south sid<', to the wesiMjird (,| p,,|t ;iu IVinee.
Vou may raiii;c aioii'n this coast without fear, only avuuiinL' the shoals of the sandy key,
wiiicb lie at a short Icaiiue norilnvurd of the point. Should you pass this point in tlie
niijiit. you would do right, after you have run a mile or a mile and a half, to atulior; vou
will liiid IJ or IH talhoiiis water, the ground nood and the water always smooth.
Vou may be forced to turned in this cliaimel. but you must not jjo so near to the Go-
nave as to ilie ,St. JJomiiigo side ; the hitter being safe, may be ajipruached any where
uitliiii half II league.
The Arcadins, as before noticed, are not to he feared : a shoal stretches out froiu them
a mill', or hall a leairuc nt most, with .j orb fathoms on it; on the edge of the west and
soiilli-west sides you will have from I J to 1.') lathoms, corally iiroiind : but there is good
ground to be t'ouiid in H, l-j. nnd l.'t fathoms, coars,- sand and shells.
(i()\ \\K ISLAM) — The greatest leiiu'tii of (ionave Island is 10 leagues E. S. E.
and W. N. W., its lireadlii. which is very reirular. is nearly two and half leagues.
This island was smveyed in IT'^^T.Iiy M. de liieiide de Sepmanville, who has given
the I'ldiouinij (les(ri[)tioN of its coasts, and the adjacent danger^.
The most danfieious reefs are those which lie to the .S. K. of Petite or Little (ionave,
which is situate neaf the S. E. point ol the great island. 'I'hese seem to be joined with
tlie land of the Little (ionave, and stretch more than a league into the othiig. lying at
about Hi)0 loises, or nearly a common lOnglish mile from the shore. A vessel may pass,
in an urgent case, between thein and the [jittle (ionaVe. but the atlemjit would be im-
prudent, especially if the wind be not well set in, as the currents are very strong and
irrciiular. I have observed, however, that in tiiis part, they run more generally to the
N. N. E. and between the two (Jonaves,
.Small vessels, drawing H or ') feet id' water, may find a good anchorage to the west of
the Little (ionave, wliii h may be best entered (rom the southward.
The N. E. point of (ionave, called (iaiet I'oint. is low. and bordered witli a reef, which
stretches along the east coast, towards the south, and extends 1100 toises (1 170 English
fatlioins) opposite the place called Trou a I'Eau. or Water Hole : withii: is a white ground,
where there are from 4 to U fathoms of water.
To sail near this reef, wjiich everv vessel can do that draws 9 or 10 feet, you must, ill
coming from the east, take a channel which is opposite to a fislierman's hut. There ar€
several other channels, whir h are easily known liy the non-appearance of wliite ground.
About 8rt fathoms within the reef, von inav range along tlie coast as far as Anse n Ga-
let, or (ialet Cove, in case the wind slionld fail. There is anchorage every where; but
the places to be prelerred are Piron Cove, Consantiirs Hide, and especially tialetCove*
which are very convenient; the hold is good, and the reefs shelter you frolu the swell of*
the sea.
The several anchorages on the north coast, for boats oi* schooners, are, L'Islet a
iMaiT, (fraud Lagoon, and Hahaina (Jhannel, where ymi are equally sheltered ; the re-
mainder of the coast is likewise bordered vvitli reels, but they are very near the shore*
and you tinil there no anchorage.
The viestern part is an iron-bound coast, along which you may range pretty near;
but it is not so from the S. W. point of Poinf-a-Ketoures, where you may find a number
of small detatched reefs, almost even with the water. Several small vessels may anchor
in that part, on the spot named Les li.deines, or the Whales, but not without a pilot
well ac(|uainled.
'J'lie only place where two or three large sliips. such as frigates, can anchor, is La
Baie du I'arc, or Park Kay, whidi lies to the .\. W. of Point Fantansque, the south
point of the island ; but coming into it is dangerous, on account of several detached
reefs, which are never seen.
Roche LOIS. — The reef called Rochelois had been fatal to many ships, and was
still much feared by navigators, its true situation having never been well ascertained : it
lies in the channel which separates the south coast of the (ionave from that of Hayti.
M. Le ('ompte de la Luzerne ordered me to survey, and determine the position of that
reef. I went and anchored within a cable's length of the rocks, which are above water :
I landed on these rocks, where I took four observations of latitude, as well as the bearing
of all the objects in sight ; and, having measured the whole extent of the shoal, I found
its breadth to be 2000^ toises, (-2130 fathoms) in a direction N. and S. nearly, and its
length 3155 toises (3360 fathoms) from E. to "W.
38:*>
llI-ri>JT*S >*MEIIICAN COAHT PILOT.
f
I I
The rocks, nillcd Pirogues, wliich are townnU the iiiiddN' of this reef, wprr nh'r,if|y
knor.ti; I loiiiiil llicir cMciii in III' I '.'.'> tiiiMCN (!:>:> I'allioins) ; ihcy iirc (jiiitt' tiiictuirtd
nt low tide, but lliriT hiMds diiiv air |i('rt'>'ivi'il at limii water. M. Lt- ( 'iiiii|i|(> dc ( 'ii;H.
tenet PiiyseKiir, who liad tin occasinii to < \|ilure the extent of this reel', xays, in hiNju'.
count of tlie navi;::Uioii alunu; the coast of Mt. J)oiniiiuo, that the rocks, which hIkiw
theuiselves at low wiiir-r, are the oiil> things to lie leared on the Knehelois : lint I ii.ivi:
foutid twu other shoals oi'verv siiialj exieiii, wlneh are very dan;.'.eroiis, suite ihey h;i\p
only two I'athoiiis waler. 'I'liey lie to tin- N. W. nf the rocks in the unddle, one al f'liii
tuisen distance, and the other al .'Hill, 'i'here may be some oilier dangers un llie Koclic-
luis, but i eouhl not make inysell'surp of it, huvinu iieen only lour days on that ex|ieil|.
lion. Prudence requires, that wiili a larj;e shi)), you should avoid it eniirely ; there i,
more room lor tackint; to the north ol liiai reel than to the soiiihward ol it : \ou are unU
to keep at tiie dislame ol' one mile, at least, Iroiii (iniiave. il you patis by the north;
whereas, in passing by tlie Huutii, you may ranj^e alon^ the llaytieii coast, whicli io cliur
and sale.
The latitude of the middle of the Kocheluia, deduced from the four observations, U
18'-' ;{7' -JO" N.
I'ORT AU PKINCK, to the W'K.STWAK D.— < )n leavintj Port au i'rince. wlinr,
bound to the Petite (ioavo, you may ranuc aloiii: the south coast, at the distance ui
one or two miles, nil the shores beihi; bold and safe, as far as I'oint Lpoi;ane.
From Point Ijamentin (o liCo;j:aiie Point, there is no aiichoraue : but you will find ;i
food buttum lor anchorm^ between the latter point and the aiidiura^e oil' the town ul
.eoyane.
From Lcorjane, the coast trends to the soutli, and forms tlie bay of (irnnd Goavu ;iiii|
Petite (Joave, which are separated by a point and a liill, nanied the '^i'apion or Hum.
mock of (ioave. Vou enter inio I'etiie (ionve Day, by leaviti(j on the larboard li;ii d
au islet which is very near the ( nasi, and which lies to the north of the town ; to tlie
westward of this islet vou may anchor ill '), IJ, and I'l fatlioins. I'etite (ioave is lij
leagues from Port au Prince, but, as you are forced to double Point Jjcogane, the riiu
is longer.
MIRAtJOANE. — From the Hummock of Petite (ioave to the Tapion du Tkui
Chou(^hou, or Hummock of Miranoanc, the coast runs west ci};hl miles, then W. ', ,S.
six and a half miles, to the careenina; island or Mirajioane Hay.
To anchor at Miragoane, you come within a mile of the careening island, wVien ynu
perceive a small town at the foot of a mountain, and some mangrove islands to the uesi-
ward. Vou keep the mid-channel, between the lirnt islet and the shore, where the villii:;e
is situated, and come to an anchor within, in from 18 to 8 tiitlioiiis, sandy bottom, 'i iiii
anchorage ought not to be taken without a pilot ; the cliamifl is not more than a caltle',
length in width, and you must anchor so soon as you are wiiiiiii,
From Miragoane (Jareening Islaiul, tiie coast benils in, and forms the bay of that iiaine.
It is shut in on the north by Frigate Island, a small islet, from whicii a white shoal ex-
tends half a league to the eastward, and nearly north to ihc anchorage at iMiraf.oaiip,
which obliges you, in coming in or going out, to keep the island shore very close aboiiid.
From this place the coast trends west, to the village of Hot litlois, which is situated at
the foot of a large huimnock.
From Miragoane the coast to the westward is clear and deep; and beyond Roclielois
are seen the towns of L'Anse-a-V'eau and Petit Trou. From the last, the coast foiiiisa
large bay, Baradaires.
BARADAIRE.S BAY. — From the village of Rochelois to the entrance of the lh\yi\
Baradaires, the coast runs \V. 5 leagues. Baradaires Bay is formed on the S. E. by
Roitelets Point, and on the N. W. by the Bee du Maisouin, or the Porpoise Snoiii;
these points bear from each other nearly N. W. and 8. E. four miles. Near the eas!
«oast of the bay there is an island, with several islets, which send out a reef and shallow
that almost join the western coast, leaving a pass or channel, of only live or six caNts'
length in breadth. To proceed into the bay, you keep along the peninsula of the Bee,
and come into from 8 to 10 fathoms. There is a good dejjth of water in the middle n|
the bay, which is of great extent ; but there are several weedy shoals, which preveut
your going in without a jjilot, well acquainted.
THE CAYMITE.S, (fcc— The northern extremity of the Bee de Marsouin, and the
north i)art of Grand Caymite Island, bear nearly \V. N. W. and E. .S. E. four leagues,
The coast west of the peninsula of the Bee bends in to the southward, and forms a
fcight ; thence, rounding out a little, it trends W. by N. as far as Point Jereinic. Tliis
•bight and Great Caymite Island form a large bay, called Caymite Jiay, where there is
Very good anchorage for all sorts of vessels. You may come to it without a pilot, and
anchor under the island in what depth you choose. You may also proceed to Flainaiul's
Bay, near the peninsula, ranging along the peninsula side, and anchor opposite a sandy
beach, in what depth you please.
\
The Bny .
tllP .IS^ist.TIIC
Ciyiiiite iiid
HliDalK of the
which ri:*e w
vcrv "M.ill on
W.'S, \V. 1 1
,li:!lKMII
(ir ( ' i|it' |{iis
a half league
I'riiKP. I'll
small, and no
rri't', lint no
hire, ('\ce|)t
anchorage wl
From (ape
C(i:Ht Ueiids
All this sh
shelter, altlm
Bay, which i
that two ships
a slielter to vc
CAPE ])A.
.Marie. Iiy the
will strike sou
distance of a (|
V'y tiiirhar ir
alidiit .S. E., tl
cluir W. N. \V
A inusktt shot
this bay ; a mil
I) to 10. Yoi
ly the east ; no
,f there is a Ires
III order to kee|
west from the «
to tlip soiithwat
i.'ape, you may
head to S. E.,
chniage as abo'
From Ca[ie I
firiiis, at that d
a frigate may ri
no shoals, or a
slioie.
To the S. by
Point APinistre,
These rocks are
more than liall'i
sail between it ;
as close as she |
One league tt
voy may aiiclioi
S. W.of thejsl
All along thi
depth gradually
and live fathom
!/■, at ."J miles,
POINT DE
we.»ternniost poi
tnack on its ext
and. This poi
range very clos(
tlioins, touchinj
The anchora;
ward c'the towi
BMINT'jJ AMnnCAN COAST PILOT.
383
, wrrr nlrrady
lite uncovcri'il
iipu* (Ic Ciiiin-
uys, ill IiIn iu:.
, wlii( \i nIkmv
is : liiit i li.ivt:
ii(«- liifv li;i\p
lit', one ul ^iiii
in I lie Koclic-
II lllitt (>X|)l'll|-
ir«'ly : lln'rf i<.
: Mill are unly
liy the nonli;
which i8 clear
ibsprvntions, U
I'limt?. wlipti
iic distance ui
;:iiie.
Mill will fimi ;i
ill' the toun ul
mill CJoavf mill
ipidii or Hiini-
iai hoard liiiid
town ; to liie
e (ioavi! is 10
ogane, the riiu
pion du Tkili
, then W. i ,S.
tid, wVien you
s to tlie west-
re tlie villiige
bottom, 'lliii
than a calile s
V <
)f that iiairie.
lite shoal e\-
t iMirai;(i;ii;e,
close aboiiiil,
is situated al
11(1 Rochelois
coast ioriiisa
of the I^iiyui
the S. E. Iiy
rpoise Snmii;
Near tlie t-asi
ef and sliiilli)«
or six caliles'
ila of the Bee,
the micUile nf
•liich preveul
souin, and the
four leagues,
I, and forms a
reinie. This
ivhere there is
t a pilot, and
to Flainaiul's
osit« a saudy
The n.iy of ('ayiiiit»'!i presents several very fine am lioraKe^, very fany to come nf widj
the at^itlniic)' of the leid alone; but there is not a uoml passage between the (irand
(".iviiiite iiid 'lie shore ; anil yon will nni lind more than 1.1 feet wiiter upon the white
gliiialu of the '•/ittle C'aymite, or of Koncauil Islet ; and then there are nrvrral rnral rocks,
which rii^e within two or three feet of the surface of the water, so that no vessel, but
viTV xi.i.ill ones, ever attempt it withoin a pilot. These white shoals extend three leagues
W.'S. W. iVoiii the (irand Cayiiiite.
.IKKKMII"-. — Kroiii the north part of the (irand Cnymito to the Point Riviere Salee,
or (lipe Riisa, whidhis one and a half leaaiie W. N. \\'. of Point .leremie, is nine and
a half lea^nes ; this Salt River Point is the northernmost point westward from Port au
i'rinrr. I'lider I'oint .leiemie, is the villanc of that name, whose anchorage is very
small, and not projier for lari;e ships; schooners and small vessels miiy anchor within the
r icI, but no ships which draw upwards ol twlve or loiirleen feet shoiihJ ever anchor
here, except in case of necessity, there beiirj no shelter for them; in short, it is a bad
arichnrasre which must be avoided diirim; tht- norths.
Kioin (ape Rosa, or ,*^alt liiver Point, to Cape iJame Marie, or Donna Maria, tlie
CO wt tiPiids \V. S. \V. thirteen miles.
All this shore is safe and bold, within a quarter of a league ; it does not present any
shelter, althiiui^h in < ase of necessity, you mi^ht anchor in the Anse a Claire, or Clair
Hav, which is 1[ leaiiiie from Salt River. This bay, or rather cove, is so very small,
that two ships, KM) feet lonj;, would be embairassed by each other : it can only serve as
n slielterto verv small vessels, and is easily discovered bv keepinj; alont; shore.
CAPK DA.VlK MARIK. or DONN.V MAIv lA.— So'soon as you descry Cape Dame
Marie, by the False Cape of that name, and are hall a league distant from if, you
will strike soMiidinys of Irom 1.') to Irt fathunis, and may raime alonj^ this cape, at the
(liscince of a (|uarter of a lea<;iie, in from H to I'J fathoms, weedy bottom.
I'd itnrlmr in the liiii/ (if Diime. Miirif, you must keep the shore on board, steering
nlmiit S. K., the wind beiii;: generally adverse ; and with your lead, you come to an an-
cluir \V. N. W. of a lari^e white tapion or hummock, on which stands a battery, and within
ii miiskfct shot of which you will lind .'> fathoms. There is anchoring bottom all over
this bay ; a mile from the shore you will have from 4 to (> fathoms, and at 2 miles from
I) to 10. You will be sheltered from the winds between the north and south, passing
ly the east; notwithstaiidinj; '.vhich, ships that lie in H or 1(1 fathoms will feel the swell,
f there is a fresh breeze without. In cnterins;, keep about half a mile off, but not less,
in order to keep clear of a reef which extends to the len;,'th of a cable and a half to the
west (roin the cajie. Preserve this distance from tlie coast, until past the False Cape,
to the southward of ('ape Dame Marie, and which is also foul. When once past False
Cape, you may haul to the wind, which is ij;enerally scant in the bay, to j^el the vessel's
head to S. F., with which course, and keeping the lead going, you may gain the an-
flioiasje as above.
From Cape Dame Marie, the coast run? S. by W. 5 leagues to Point dcs Irois, and
firms, at that distance, several bays and coves, where vessels may anchor. In general,
a frigate may run in along this coast, with her lead, and anchor in any part, there being
no shoals, or any danger under water, the ground gradually Increasing towards the
shore.
To the S. by W. of Cape Dame Marie, 2\ lea^iues distant, and about half a league off
Point Ministre, or Minister Point, are some rocks, called Tjes Baleines, or the Whales.
These rocks are above water, and surrounded with a white shoal which does not extend
more than half a cable's length from them, and on which are four fathoms. A ship can
sail between it and the shore. In the mid-channel she will have 6 fathoms, and may go
as close as she pleases to take them on the oft' side. 'J'he sea always breaks on this shoal.
One league to the ,S. S. F. from the Whales, lies Pierre Joseph's Islet, where a con-
voy may anchor. The anchorage is very good and easy, and large ships anchor to the
S.'W. of the islet.
All along this western coast you have ground at two leagues from the shore, the
depth gradually increasing as you leave the land ; so that, in general, you will find four
and live fathoms, at one mile distance; 10 or 12 at two miles, and regularly from 15 to
17, at .'3 miles. When vou get into '.iO fathoms you will lose soundings suddenly.
POINT DKS IROiS, Oil IRISH P(JINT, as the English sailors call it, is the
weoternninst point of liayti. It is not very hiiih, though remarkable from a small hum-
mock on its extremity, which api)ears detached from the coast, and makes like an isl-
and. This point forms the north part of the Hay des Irois, or Irish Ray. You,may
range very close to the land on the north side of the bay, there being from 9 to 18 fa-
tlioins, touching the shore.
The anchorage is to the N. W of a black rock, which is seen a little way to the south-
ward c'the town. It is in from 9 to 10 fathoms, shelly grnuud. You may uuchor like-
384
BLCM'\s a:':ierican coast pilot.
wise to UiP southward of the rocky isirt, N. N. W. of a small hummock, towards the
middle of ilie hay. Tlie depth is liere from H to <) fatlioms, sand and muddy cround.
Tl»o bay is exposed to soutliurly winrls. There is always, a great sea within, and the
Debercacjaire, or landinj; |)lace, is of course a bad one. It is situated in ihe eddy of the
currents, which set to the northward, on the west side, and to the .S. K. on the e;ist
coast. Besides, the sea in the offuii; is alternately agitated with violence by the N. E,
and east breezes, wliicli jjrevaii on the west ^-oast, and by the S. E. winds that blovv on
the south coast. Irois l>ay is terminated to the south by ( 'ape Careasse, which, wit,)
Cap a Foux. or Fool's Cajjc. forms a lar^e roundish point, whose end is at Cape TiLuroii.
C.\l'li TIBlJliUN. — Tlu'se three capes, seen at a distance, form but one. wliidi i<
called (Ja])e Tiburon, and is very easily known by its form and height. It is a hir,'.>
mountain, very lofty, whose top is rounded like the back of a d(jsser, or French band
basket, and comes gradually dowti towards the sea.
Cape 'riburon, pro[)erly s|)eaking, is 5 miles .S. v!.'i" E. of Irish Point, and forms th*
entrance of Tdjuron Day, which is to the eastward of it. Its situation is, lai. 18" 19
25", long. 74 - J/' ;{-'". You will get no ground at FM fathoms, two cables' length from
the coast, between (,'ape (Jarcasse, and very near C^ape Tiburon; but olf the latter, a;
that distat"'e, you will have from •J4 to 30 fathoms, and a little further out, cpiickl) ids.
soui.. lings.
Un the Aortli Shore, of 'nhnrun Bin/, the water is deep to within 2 or .T cables' lentil
of the rocks, and within lialf a cable's length you have (> and 7 fathoms, stitf clayisl,
ground. t)n the east and S. E. shores, you have 4 and 4^ fathoms, tine muddy grounil
within a cable's length, all round. The edge of soundings runs as the bay forms, hall;
mile from its heatl. You may anchor any where in the bay ; but bring Point Hiiruos
the south point, (which is foul,) .S. by E. and the pitch of Cape Tiburon W. N. W. jr
4 or 5 fathoms. From that to H or ?) is very good ground. Wooding and waterine ir
plenty. You may either land your casks, and roll them over a narrow neck of lant inu
the river, or fill them iu your boats with buckets.
Directions formaleing the Island Hayd, and its different Ports.
[From the Derrotero de las Antillus, &c.]
If a vessel is bound to a port on the north coast, she m,\y as we have alreadv shown
at once get into the latitude of Cape Cabron, without inaiving any of the (Jarrilibe m
Vngin Islands. By this she will ^o clear ol'tlie dangerous isle of Anegada, and be sur*
of not getting to leeward of her port of (f tinatioii. Having made Cape Cabrcn. iir
more hi to be attended to than to follow tin oast, at a proper distance from the |)in
jecting points, and without getting into the bays it forms, until approaching your dps-
lined [)ort, when you may keep s;) near to the coast, to windward of it, as to make sure
not to pasH it. If bound to a port on the south coast it is proper to make the island c:
St. Bartholoutew, passing its south side, and run down by the south of Porto Rico, to
make the island of Saona, if you are boiuid to the harbor of .St. Domingo, or to 0cm
Bay ; but if not, yoii may [jroceed at once to make Beata and Altovela, passing to ilif
south of them, and so "irecting yourself as to appn»a(:h the coast to windward of vom
port of destin.iiion, in sufficient tiniL' to be certain oliiot overrunning it. Those bouni
direct for harbors on the west end of the island, ought to make the north .side in the
rainy season or season of thi; souths, and the, south side in the dry season, or that n
the norths : thus they fret; themselves from tlie dangers and anxieties which the siniili-
cause, in the (irst instance, and which the r.urths cause in the second ; for it is wpI
known to every seaman, that not only is an otfshore wind not dangerous, but tiiai i
allows of continuing your voyage; for, though it may blow very hard, it can raise m
sea. and you can regulate the sail according to circumstances.
/// nari ladling J'rniii Irnvirn to irind u'drd, this island ali'ords the very great advanfajf
of land-breezes. It is W(dl known that th ; nearer you are to the land, the fresher these
winds are, and therefore the tarther you "au run with them: thus, in this case, it an-
swers to keep as near along shore as you can, which is sulfu-iently easy, and keeping iu
mind the particular description td'it, you need not fear.
If it be a matter of indilfertince to you, whether you beat up the north or sotith side,
you ought to choose the lirst in the season of the souths, and the secoiul in the season oi
tlie norths ;. anil this is the more reiiuisite, a.s when you are running Irom windward to lee-
ward, you have not the same necessity to keep near land, as when bound Irom Ice
ward to windward ; and it is very certain that, in the latter case, if cither a north or a
8( uth catch you, when very clo>;' on their respective coasts, fatal tonseijuences may rn-
stie; but if it be not a matter of indilference lu you, which side you work to windward
rn, or that you must of necessity take one in preference to the other, notwithstandinc
:it
thi: obstac
track, wh
Kelativ
that their
siipi)ose,
selves, w(
grounds
By the
one side,
and north
ter. The
the caster
ward of t
of the K
Morant
NAVA^
broad at
who says,
feet in Jieij
deck of a
dicular ciil
face of the
the westwa
III every ot
soiitliern si
t'ourtlis of
the north
III crossing
will have 3-J
fatlioms.
230 falhomi
a little mori
the shore,
cod, and rec
bank of lim
thorns, witl
and Cape 1
From Na
leagues.
From Ca
•ind distanc
W. hv W .
TliE l-"i
nearly •) mi
the westwa
Point, .lam
by W. .38 n
13 or 14 fe(
swell upon
there will b
the eastern
westward tl
The cen
land over I
irg S. W.
THE M
E. from tin
crescent, a
Key, Sand
miles of an
The keys l'
Rood nnrho
N. E. Key
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
385
mock, towanls tlic
muddy uround.
sea withii). and the
in tiie eddy of the
S. K. on tl»p e;is(
!ncp by the N. E.
v'mds thiit blow ni
•ciisso, vvhich. witn
IS at Cape Tiljiirun.
l)ut one. which j*
ght. Il is a larji"
V, or French band-
Dint, and forms tli'
ion is, lai. !><' K)
rabies' ienmli Ikiiii
t o(V llie latter, a:
?r out, quickl) ins*
or ^ cables' lenml
thorns, stilt' clityisi,
line muddy ground
le bay forms, hall ;
rin^ Point 15nr!;os
uron W.N. W. ir
ing and watering ir
)W neck of lane intc
Ports.
lave alreadv slown
of the (Jarribbe m
iieti'ida, and be sun
e Cape Cabrcn, lu
lice from the pm
roaeliing your des-
it, as to make surf
make the islami p:
|i of Porto Ricci. t
rningo, or to Ucn-;
.fla, passing to ilif
II windward of youi
Z it. Those bouni
f north .side in tilt
season, or liuit »
s wliicli the south'
Olid ; lor it is wel
[gcrous, but that i
rd, it can raise m
Iry great advnntn;*
|l, the fresher tlic.-''
jin this case, it an-
lisy, and keeping in
lortli or south side,
|id in the season nl
|m windward to Iff-
bound from Ice-
lit her a north or a
^e(|uences may en-
J work to windward
fr, notwilhstaudiDfl
ihi; obstacles, the risk, at greatest, is not such as ought to thwart a navigator from this
track, who knows that in i)roportion to the dilliculty, must ire liis viitilantc and activity.
Relative to the currents wliich may be fnund along the shores of Hayti, we may a(i(i
that their elfects may be looted up.ni as ineonsideralde. Some, however, affirm and
suppose, that tliere are currents of a mile an hour setting to the westward ; but, for our-
5' selves, we can only say that we have no foundation for such an assertion, but rather have
' grounds for thinking them of little importance.
37/i WindwardCkannd hilu-ctn ILn/ti and Jiimaiia.
J By the Windward Cluinnel is meant that channel which lies between Ilaytl on the
one side, and Cuba and Jamaica on the other. Tlie coasts wliicli form it on tlu-' east
and north have already been described, and tlie coasts ol' Jamaica are described heveaf-
ter. The breadth (rf the channel between Cape Tiburon, in llayti, and IMorant i'oint,
the eastern end of Jamaica, is :J1 leaijues, in a W. .S. W. direction; and to the north-
ward of this liriO is the little isle calle'd Navaza, and a dangerous shoal bank called that
of the Foriniga»; to the soutliward is a bank ofsonndinu-, I'ut cbar irf dangers, ami the
Morant Keys, with their surroimdiiig bank. These we shall deseiibf! in (rrder.
N.WAZA is alxrut •-' miles in lenglh. K. .■<. K. and W. .N. W'., and about ll mile
broad at its widest part. It w as surveyed in l^"!);} by .Mr. l-'rancis Cwen, Master, R. N.,
who says, "This island is a flat level rock, apparently of volcanic; origin, is above 300
feet in lieiglit. and covered witli small shrubs. Jt may be seen on a clear day from the
deck of a liiie-ol'-batile .^liip alroiif 7 leaiiues. Kveiy jrart tliereof shows a rocky perpen-
dicular clilf, except a small sjraee on the northern side, which is but little above the sur-
face of the sea. From the western extremity of the island, a coral reef stretches to
the westward about IDII fathoms, ot) which are only -,'7 feet with 1.') I'atiioms all round it.
In every other part thert' arc I'J f.ithoms wafer close to the shore. ( )n the western and
southern sides, soundinsis iVoiii lf» to 10 fatlioms, sand, extend to the distance of three
fourths of a mile, on which you may amlior and lie smooth in a strong .sea-breeze. On
the north side the bottom is rocky, and the bank floes not extend bevond lialf a mile.
Ill rrossing this island, on its eastern side, at the distance of about one tliird/jf a mile, you
will have 34, "J.'j. and 1 -^ la thou is : ami a I half a mile .'1'^, and soon after.no croiiml, with 75
fathoms. At the distaiuM' of 1', mile from the east end, no lioitom will be firiind with
i.'30 fathoms. 'J'lie N. W. end bearing iN. or.N. by K.. and the .S. F. ])oint K. S. E. or
a little more strutlierly. you may anchor in lb fathoms, line sand, about liaifa mile from
the shore. There are great (|'iaiilities of sea fowls on tli>' island : and round the rocks,
cod. and red snappers in abini'iiiiice. Hetween .Nava/.a and ( 'ape Tibiimn there is a small
bank of line while sand, with |ilenly of lish thereon, 'i'lie deptii is from 11 to iG fa-
thoms, with the following beariniis : — Navazti W. ', .'^. ; Cape Tiburon K. S. F. J E. ;
and Cape l)ame Marie N. F. ', K., by compass.
From Navaza to ( 'ape Dame Al.irie, the bearing and distance arc N. E. by E. J E. 14
leagues.
From Cape 'J'iburon to Mortiiit Point, which is the east end of Jamaica, llic bearing
and distance are W. S. W. ^ W. 3-1', leagues ; and from Navaza to the same point, S.
\V. by W. .', W. •J3 leagues.
THE FOK.MHiAS, ( »li ANT.S. are some dangerous coral spots upon a sand bank,
nearly ') miles in b .igth, extenrling in a .N. F. and S. W. direction, almut 10 leagues to
the westward from Navaza. Its eastern part bears \. F. by N. 10 miles from Morant
Point, Jamaica; and from the body of the shoal the N. [•'. end of Jamaica bears 8. W.
by W. ."^R miles. The eastern part is the shoalest, not hiivins, in some places, more than
i;$ or 14 feet of water. The edge here is nearly steep to. and there is generally a great
swell upon it. In standing over the bank, when the depth increases to 7 or 7^', fathoms,
there will be a sudden increase to 1.1 and l.j fathoms, and thence no bottom at 20. On
the eastfrn edge the bottom is dark, and not easily seen in hazy weather; but to tho
westward the v.ater is discolored, and appears lighter.
The centre of the bank is in about IH ' :50 N. and 7o"^ 40' W. The fall of the high
land over Plaintain (larden IFivci. which is the easternmost liigh land on Jamaica, bear-
ing S. W. by S. leads directh on the bank.
THE MORANT KFYS".— These keys, which lie at th" distance of .30 miles .S. S.
E. from the east end of Jamaica, consist of four low islets lu' keys, situate in form of a
crescent, and are surr Minded by a dangerous reef. They are disiingnislied bv N. E.
Key, .Sand Key, Savanna, or liird Key, and S. W. Kr-y. V'ou may approacdi within 2^
miles of any of them. The reef on the eastern side is a most dangerous ledge of cornl.
The keys Tie between hit. l^'' i»l' and 17^ v?'^', long. 7.'»'' ").j . To the N. W, of them h
Rood anchoring ground, in ."> or fi fathom ;, white sand and shells. To r-nehnr, give the
N. E. Key •> berth of 1^, or .' mihs : and when ihc .S. W. Kev b'-nrs S. by K. steer
49
386
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
:tly
If.
(\
ill
=lr
ou
o westward of the rocky spit, that extends to d;
westward from the iN. E. Key, and has hut little more than [i fathoms over it.
the N. E. Key bears E. I)y N. or E. N. E. you may haul more to the eastward, and an
chor with the S. W. Key bearinij; 8. or S. by W. and Savanna Key, the next to it, S. K..
in from 5 to G fathoms, sandy bottom. As there are some spots of coral, it is requi-
site to ascertain that the bottom be clear.
These keys are only 7 or 9 feet above the water. The body of them lies from Port
Morant, Jamaica, S. S. E. r} E., about 11 leagues. With the keys Itearing S. W. nearly
4 miles, there arc about 18 fathoms water, stony ground, mixed with line red speckled gra-
vel. With them S. W. by S. about 4 miles, there are 16 fathoms; and when S. S. W.
^ W. 6 miles, there are 2.3 fathoms, with ground as above.
In order to ascertain when you are to the eastward of the keys, observe that Morani
Point, or the east end of Jamaica, and the north-cast end of the same, bear from eacli
other N. W. },- N. and S. E. i S. so that when tlie north-east enil, which is high ami
blutf, is to be seen on that bearing, or to the westward of it, yoa will be to the eastward
of the keys.
Also, when coming in from the southward for Jamaica, by keeping Yallah's Mill, lipfc.
aftor noticed, to the northward of N. W. ^ N. you will pass clear of the keys to tlif
westward.
Be very cautious on approaching the keys in the night, lest you be driven on them
by the current.
In turning between the Morant Keys and the east end of Jamaica, there is a good ?
leagues of turning ground ; and as it sfidom ha|)pens that the land is not descried befoir
night, its bearings may direct in turning or sailing.
Capt. Mackellcr tells us that the cocoanut-trces lormerly on Morant Keys have bern cut
down since 1816, ami there is not a shrub of any kind to be seen, except a few small tn-
coanut-bushe:, on llie iN. E. Key. Very great care should i)e taken in approaching tin
N. E. Key, on either side, as it is foul to a great distance o(f ; and vessels intcndiiii; ic
anchor at the keys, ought not to come on the while water at all, that is, to the westwarii
of the N. F^. Key, until they are far enough to the southward to have the south part oi
the N. E. Key bearing E. by N. ; they may then haul up to the eastward for .Savanna or
Bird Key ; and when it i)ears S. E. and the S. W. Key S. or S. | W., anchor in.oori.
fathoms. If it is necessary to work up to this anchorage, with the wind east, you nwv
stand to the S. W. Key, by your lead, not going nearer than 5 or 6 fathoms ; but iIk
reef off the N. E. Key is steep to, and you will have 6 fathoms at one cast, and the next '.,
or perhaps less; therefore, in working up, keep the point of the N. E. Key always la
the northward of E. !>y N. after you are in the white water.
Directions/or the Wmdimrd Passages, which is the. jjrincipal chantiel to the north-east wan
of Jamaica, including those for sailijig to and from Jamaica, at d thence to ]\ew Pnxi-
dence, Havana, Europe, (?jt.
Ships from Europe, when bound to .Tamaica, generally take the broad and safe clinc
nel between the islands and (Juadaloupe, but they may pass with equal safety between
St. Bartholomews and Saba, or St. Eustatias, and thence make the parallel ol 17" JO'io
the southward of Hayti, or on the meridian of 70° W. When thus (hr advanced, tliev
may continue W. \ S. until they make Alto-Vela or the Little Mount, which lies uif
the southern point of Ilayti, as already desrrii)ed. They will thus avoid the dansch
in the vicinity of Nciva Bay, towards which there is fretjueutly an indraught, as belore
noticed.
Should you hapjjen to miss Alto- Vela, you may probably make the land of Jacquemcl.
or Jacmel, before described ; or if not, with the next great promontory, of which I'oini
Abacou and Point a (iravois are the extremities. Jac(|uemcl may, as already shown, In
distinguished from sea by the sudden cut-off or drop of a hill, seen over another \w\^
hill at the upper part of the harbor. This mark leads directly to the harbor's moulli.
The Isle a Vaclie lies to the eastward of Point Abacou, and forms the channel loAux
Cayes, &c. From Alto- Vela to the east end of the Lie a Vache, the bearing anil dis-
tance are W. by N. 42i leagues. From the oast end of the Isle a Vache to Point Aba-
cou, W. by S. 14 miles ; thence to Point a (iravois, W. \ S. "J.J leagues.
When olfat sea, abreast of the Isle a Vache, the middle of a saddle mountain ovor
Port St. Louis, bears nearly N. by E., and then the eastern end of a Vache is bctwrpn
it and the ship. The island is low, though hilly, and lies so under the land of the
main, that it is not distinguishable from it at any considerable distance. At 6 leagues oil,
it appears, as already said, like an assemblage of small islands. The water towards it
shoalens gradually.
The saddle mountains over St. Louis, which are called the Grand Anse Mountains,
are the second high range from the west end of Ilayti. The westermnott, which is the
highest, I
Observe,
render th
the dan^<
From I
\V. l.J le;
than 'JO It
Morant
a Gravois
In ruiin
tious of ri
already si
near as to
ways goin
without di
who will c
MORA
to the east
of this hill
bears W. .
of the east
for when 1
17° 50' or
Should J
tant, .vhen
east end, w
also, that a
Froiii of]
should kee
from the i
nearly 2 mi
Tothe w
the shore, ;
Horses, off
From th(
down, wher
and frequen
Point, the i
From Yi
well as all t
between th«
from Cow ]
Plum J'o
and ap])roa
abreast of ii
nel to Port
When yo
the entranc(
north part c
mark is to I
steer a little
until Port I
in mid-char
ly towards 1
<iun Key, w
|)r(»ach the [
between it a
and a half, \
li'ving p;
north of (ta
anchor abrer
wind, the C
Twelve Apo
Key reef.
hat extends to tli.«
lis over it. Wlicu
eastward, and an-
le next to it, S. K..
coval, it is requi-
em lies IVnm Port
ariiig S. W. nenrl\
e red speckled jjru-
nd when S. S. W.
)serve that Morani
le, bear from eacli
which iH hii^h ami
be to the eastward
railah's Hill, hcfc
of the keys to th^
be driven on them
1, there is a Rood f-
uot descried bet'orr
Keys have been cu!
ept a few small i(}-
in approaching tin
essels intendini^ to
is, to the westward
a the south part oi
vnn\ for Savanna w
^'., anchor in oorii
vind east, you \m\
I fathoms ; i)ut the
ast, and the next:i,
E. Key always i<\
the nor th-rasi ware,
znce to j\ew Pnu-
oad and safe clinn-
ual safety between
iraliel of'lT ' vHi'io
iir advanced, llin
nt, which lies ulf
void the dangers
liaught, as belore
nd of .lacqupmei,
y, of which I'oini
already shown, In
over another idii;
arbor's mouth,
le channel to Aux
bearing aiul disi-
(he to Point Aba-
tes.
le mountain over
Vachc is bctwopii
er the land of the
At() leagues (111'.
; water towards it
Anse Mountains,
moit, which is tlif
I
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
387
If
hi'hest, may be seen in clear weather 30 or 40 leagues ofT,*on both sidv-s of the island.
Uliservc, however, that alter noon the exhalation of vapor is sometimes so great au to
nM)d(!r them invisible. ]]c cautious, at such times, of making the land, lest you ruu ou
the dangers of the Isle a Vache.
From Point a (tiavois to Cape Tiburon, the bearing and distance are N. W. by W. 4
W. 1.5 leagues. The land about Cajjc Tiburon is so h^gh as olten to be seen at more
than 'JO leagues off.
Morant J'oint, the easternmost extremity of Jamaica, already noticed, bears from Point
a Gravois W. J S. 42 leagues ; and from Cape Tiburon, AV. .S. W. 31 leagues.
In ruiHiing for .Jamaica, from the west end of Hayti, or the Isle of Alto-Vela, be cau-
tious of running too far north, lest you should get on iMorant Point, this |)oint being, as
already shown, extremely low. In thick hazy weather it may possibly be approached so
near as to make it difficult to weather ; the wind setting right on, and the current al-
ways going to leeward. By keeping the proper parallel, (17'^ 45',) you will run down
without danger, and iriake Yallah's Point, off which you arc sure to meet with pilots,
who will conduct you to Port lioyal Harbor, if re(iuired.
Sailing Directions for the Coast and Harbors of Jamaica.
MURANT POINT TO KINGSTON.— The southernmost high land of Jamaica,
to the eastward of Port Koyal, is Yallah's Hill, which is very remarkable. The middle
of this hill is 20 miles to the eastward of Port Royal Point. When the fall of this hill
bears W. A N. steering W. by .S. will carry a vessel a league or more to the southward
of the east end of the island, which is very low. The latitude at noon will be a guide ;
for when Yallah's Hill bears W. ^ N. 11 or 12 leagues distant, the ship will be in lat.
17° 50' or 17° 51'.
Should you m;ike the southernmost high land, bearing W. S. W. 9 or 3 0 leagues dis-
tant, when bound to the south side of the island, you must haul up S. \V. to clear the
east end, which will not be in sight at a greater (listance than 4 leagues; ami observe,
also, that a current fre(]uently sets to the northward around this end of the island.
Fro.ii ort" Morant Point, or the east eml of Jamaica, when bound to Port Royal, ships
should keep at a distance of 4 miles from shore, until i)ast iMorant ]5ay, as the coast
from the east end to the southward of Rocky Point is lined with a reef that stretches
nearly 2 miles outward, and over a part of which the sea generally breaks.
To the westward from Rocky Point, the coast continues rocky to about one mile from
the shore, as far as Morant Bay; it is then clear to the white cliflV called the Wliite
Horses, off which there are some rocks, at about half a mile from shore.
From the White Horses to Yallah's Point, the distance is one league. In running
down, when the former bear north, and Yallah's Point west, you will have sounding.s,
and frequently see the bottom in 7tf. H, 9, and 10 fathoms ; and on approaching Yallah's
Point, the water will be found to dt^epen until you lose soundings.
From Yallah's Point to Cow Bay Point there is no danger; the latter is bold to, as
well as all the coast to the westward, as far as Plum Point. The cortrse and distance
between the two points are W. by N. eight miles; but should you be three or four miles
from Cow Bay Point, you must steer more to the northward.
Plum Point is the southeast jjoint of the Palisadoes ; you may run in boldly for it,
and apjjroach its extremity within half a cable's length, having nothing to fear until
abreast of it, or between it and the Middle C round, in the entrance of the eastern chan-
nel to Port Royal.
When you have brought Rock Fort N. by E. you will come on a cross ledge without
the entrance of the channel, and must then bring the leading mark on, which is the
north part of the Apostles' Battery and the magazine of Fort Charles in a line. This
mark is to be kept on until you are abreast of Lime Key. When thus far advanced,
steer a little to tlic southward towards Rackham Key, giving Lime Key a good berth,
until Port Royal Point comes open between (lun Key and llackham Key. Now steer
in mid-channel between these keys, and immediately after pa.ssing them, jiroceed direct-
ly towards Port Royal Point, till you bring the fall of Yallah's Hill on the centre of
(inn Key, which will bring you between the Knoll and Port Royal Point; you may ap-
proach the point w ithin half a cable's length, and, by sailing close to it, you will also pass
between it and the Harbor Knoll, which lies to the wesfward about the length of a cable
and a half', with 10 feet on it.
ll>ving passed the point steer to the northward till tjie Admiral's Penn comes to tho
north of ({allows Poim. This mark leads you clear of Old Port Roval, where you may
anchor abreast of the Dock Yard, or even before you come to it. With a land or north
wind, the Channel between (inn Key and Port Royal is to be preferred ; then the
Twelve Apostles' Battery on the fiouth angle of Fort Charles leads vou clear of Gun
Key reef.
388
BLUATS! AaiEUICAiN COAST FJI.OT.
Siraiigcis, ill rnse of lu'ccssity, rii;iy pilot thuir slii[).i down to the anchorage iu the
rhatiiiel, evt-ii Hlieii the iiiarUs aie not to 1)0 sfoii, as iiolliiiii,' is to be I'eared on the side
i'hich IS |i
ot me raiisadof's, « liuMi is inw and Diisiiy. i iicy must only Keep within half or three
f|uartc,is of a mile of Plmn I'oiiit. and steer down Ity tlic I'alisadoes, till tliey bring Lime
Key to bear S. S. K. (U' .S. II. Iiy S. then tiicy anchor in 15, 16, or 17 fathoms, near the
middle of the channrl.
SHOALS L\ THL EASTERN CILVNNEL OE I'ORT ROYAL.— The most
remarkal)lc shoal in the Eastern Channel is the Middle (lionnd, or Eastern Middle
Ground, which lies one and a cjuarter mile S. S. W. from J'Inm Point; it consists di
two patches, rorky bottom; ihe east patch liaviii"; twelve feet, and the west patch,
(about 70 fatiioms to the \V. S. W. of the other,) haviiiij 'J feet; they are divided by a
narrow swash, 10 fatlxmis dee|), and both break with strona; sea breezes.
A Reacon, with a small triaiii^le ibcmt .>0 feet above the level of the sea, has been
erected on the Palisadoes, ijetween (Ireatand fjittle Plum Points. When bearing N. bv
W. by compass, or in one with Kingston Cliurch, it will lead clearto theeastward of the
East Middle (rioiind.
Yoix may sail within the Middle riround, oi- without it to the soutliward, as necessity
requires: but to the northward is tlie l)est and safest channel. The soundings in thut
channel are tineven, iVoin 7 to ]') or 20 fathoms: but, when you are |)ast the Middle
Ground, tJiey are regular from I'J to l.'J fathoms between Rackhain and (hin Keys.
The first key you meet with, in steering iVom the Middle (iround towards Port Roval.
is Lime Key, iVom the north end of which a reef stretches about a cable's length ; voar
eye is the best mark forii. as it is generally seen: to the westward of the key lies ano-
ther shoal, with H or 10 feet upon it.
The knoll off Port Royal Point is the third shoal ; it is a small hard coral bank to th?
southward of the point, with only lb feet water upon it. If your sliip draw 12 or 13 feei
water, you must be careful to keep clear of it.
To go within the knoll, the leading mark is to bring the highest bush on Gun Kev.
(which is near the middle of it,) in one with ^'allah's J'oint; you have then 10 fathoim
water; and the channel is 70 fathoms wide. The mark to strike the knoll is the somb
point of Gun Key on the high hill of Vallah's, or a shi|)'s length open of Y'allah's Point;
the breast mark is the church on the seventh or eig'.uh embrasure of the Fort, Sandv
Key just open witli Lime Key, and you will have If) or 17 feet of water.
To go between the; knoll and the Western JMiddle (irmmd, which lies about 300 fa-
thoms to the south-westward (d" it, the leaditig mark is True Land's Hummock, within
Yallah's, on ihe southernmost |)art of Gun Key, or Vallah's Point, well open to thf
northward of the north point of Rackham's Key. I'his channel, which is the widest,
and has 12 fathoms of water, is mostly used when taken with the land wind.
The anchorage is good all over Port Royal Harbor: but the best anchoring for ships
that arc bound to .sea, is in ') fathoms, with a notch on the east side of a high mountain,
called the Leading Notch, a little open to the eastward of Fort Augusta, and Rackham
Key in one with Port Royal Point.
SOUTH CHANNEL OF PORT ROYAL.— To go to sea from Port Royal, you
make use of the South or the New Channel ; the small craft generally go through (lit
East Channel, but it is to be avoided by large vessels, unless they are prime sailers, and
have a strong land breeze or north, with an appearance of its lasting long enough to
carry them throiigh.
When bound through tlie South Channel you should get under weigh with the land
wind, JO soon iu the nioniing as you can see the marks, ohservin,"; that the current then
sets most commonly to the westward. Thi'. general leading mark is the Leading Notch
in one with the magazine of Fort Augusta, which is the easternmost building of thr
fort. This mark leads sliips of 16 or 17 feet water clear through ; but, in a line of b,it
tie ship, the notch shoidd be kept very little to the eastward of the magazine, uiuil
Hellshire Hummock comes open with Fort Small.
To keep well to the westward of the Mid<lle (iround, be careful not to bring the church
steeple upon the corner of the wall with end)rasures, tiiitil Wallah's Hill is brought in
one with Lime Key. Incase you sliould not se«! Vallah's Hill Point, look out for a
hummock on Hellshire, and wiien it is open of Salt Pan Hill, you will be to the south-
ward of the Middle Ground.
This Middle Ground is a large coral hank which often breaks, with only three fret on
it in the luiildle; tlie north and west sides are almost sleep. ( hi its N. W. edte lies .i
buoy, whn.se marks are. J'ort Royal Tower on the fourth embrasipe of Fort Charles,
counting from the- westward, and Hellshire Hummock on the (ln;,-sta(f of Fort .Small.
When you have opened Hellshire Hummock with I''ort !^m;,il, you steer out with the
Leading Notch a little to the eastward of thejjiagazine. whic i carries you between the
Drunken Man's Key, the Turtle Heads, and the South Knoll ; or, to avoid these heads.
vou are ti
and coiilii
Then yi
keep up I
fort, vou I
(le Ikads
just open.
When :
you will b
in a line w
tuguese,
you are tli
berth of a
Druidve
loose sand
half a milt
Drunken
1'he 'J'l
shoalcst pii
heads, are
And to tile
steej) to.
which br(M
3. S. E. of
ship Warri
The Lilt
nel. It lia,'
When P(
with Hellsh
It fie(|uei
nel : and th
Should this
will be dann
By inattenti
their cables,
ship.
The best
notch a littl
wind change
»ea breeze, j
When cle
ther to west!
he to the SOI
Wreck Re
E. from Hell
channel for s
the reel', the
'To sitil III]
proceed to si
if the forego
ings will be f
N. W.
The shoal
mast-head,
coral. The
to them. T
SHIPS 1?
Ground by tl
ward Chaime
(he South CI
it is ha/.ardiu
come on alie;
Ni-:w CIJ
South Chanii
Jo the South
choring groui
biee/e, ai far
UJ.UIST.S A.MLUICA^ COAST PILOT.
389
anchorage iu the
eared on the sida
;liiii half or tbrrr
1 tftey brinj;Lime
fathoms, near the
fAL— The most
• Eastern Middle
int ; it consi.sti of
the west patch,
are divided by a
s.
the sea, has been
len bearing N. h\
he eastward of the
ivard, as necessity
soundings in thu;
piist the Middle
1 (iiin Keys,
vards Port Royal,
)ie's length ; jour
the key lies ar,o-
coral bank to th?
draw 12 or 13 feet
ush on Gun Kev.
c then ]0 fathoni)
knoll is the soutfc
if Valiah's Point:
the Fort, Sandy
;r.
1 lies about 300 fa-
uinmock, within
ell open to the
1 is the widest,
ind.
loring for ships
high mountain.
5ta, and Rackham
'ort Royal, you j
go through tilt I
niino sailers, and |
long enough to I
igh with the land
the current then
p Leading Notrli
building of tlk
in a line of bat-
magazine, until
bring the rhurrli
I is brought in
look out for a
be to the sotitli-
iiilv three feet on
W. eilue lie»;i
of Fort Clinrles
of Fort .Siunil.
teer out with the
von betwrPii the
i-oid these head!.
vou are to haul up so as to bring tlu' iluirch stoeph; lo the easternmost part of tho Ibrtr
iind continue to keep that murk until llic Soutii Key i,s brought on with Vallah's I'oint.
'j'bfu you may h;iui to the westward if the wind will permit, lint if you siiould not
keep up tlic leading niiiik, and the- climcli steeple should come near the eonu'r of the
fort, voii nu'..st then come to, or t;ick .ind siaml in. Tlie mark, wlu-ii ashore on the Tur-
tle IJeads, is the church steeple upon the magazine of the fort, and .Spanish Town laud
just open.
When .Maiden Key is open a ship's length to the southward of Drunken Man's Key,
you will be to the .H<tuthward of the South Kin)lls, and shoiilil biing the licading Notch
in a line with the maga/Zuic, which will itriiig you close to the westward of the Little Por-
tuguese, in t* or ') fathoms: when Yallah's Jlill comes to the southward of South Key,
you are then clear of the Portuguese, and may haul to the S. F. giving South Key a
berth of idjout a mile.
Druidien .Man's Key is a narrow ledge of rocks just above water, covered with some
loo.se sand that gives it the ;i|)pcaraiice of a sand bank. To tin; southward of it about
h;df a mile, there is a shoal vvliich bn-aks with strong sea brce/.es; and between it and
Druiikeii .Man's Key is a chtmtie! having (> or 7 failnmis of wnter.
The 'J'urtie Heads are tluMtMlangeious spots, with 10 or 11 feet of water on their
slioalest jiart, and deep water close to tliem. Tin; South Iviiolls to the S. F. of these
heads, are two small patciiis, about 70 fathoms asunder, with 'J."! feet water on them.
And to the S. by W. of these lies Une-lJush Jleef, wbicli always breaks, and is almost
steep to. The Three-Fathom Hank is a larjio corid slioal, with 1') or "JO feet of water,
which breaks with strong sea breezes. A small i)alcli, aioiiit a (piarter of ;i mile to tho
S. S. F. of it, has JO feet of water ; it is called the Warrior's J};mk, from the British
ship Warrior having lost her riulder liiere iu 17"^"..'.
The Little Portuguese is the southermnostsln.nl on the eastern side of the south chan-
nel. It has tVorn -J-' to .TJ feet water er it, ami iu general, ii ijreat swell.
When I'm'tland makes iis an island, open about three (|uarters of a point, or a point,
with ilellshire, you will bi; to the soiithw;u(l ol' t!ie Tbree-l'"atli(Mn i5ank and Warrior.
It fre(]uently liappens that the land breeze fails bel'ore a sliip can get clear of the chan-
nel; and there is sometimes a long interval of calm between the land and sea breezes.
Should this occur it would be rerpiisite to aiudior so soon as the breeze fails, or there
will be datiger of being set, by the swell, on the Three-l-'athom Bank or (.)ne-Bush Keel".
By inattention to this precaution, tliere have been instances of siiips slipping or cutting
their cables, when tlie sea breeze has come on, and running into Port Royal to save the
ship.
The best anchora~e is within the length of the Little I'ortnguese, with the leading
notch a little open to the eastward of the magazine of l-'ort .Vugusta. Then, if tho
wind changes southerly, a ship may easily return to Port Royal, or with the commoD
«ea breeze, may jiroceed to sini.
When clear of the channel, if bound to leeward, you may steer S. by W., or not far-
ther to westward than half a jioint more westerly, in order to avo'd some shoal spots that
lie to the south-eastward of Wreck R'.'cf.
AVreck Keef always breaks. This datmer li<'s about a mile, or little irmre, to the S.
E. from Ilellshire Point, aiul is about a mib; iu length from .\. F. to S. W. There is a
channel for small craft between it and Ilellshire Point. Aboui a mile to the S. W. of
the reef, tliere is a shoal spot of ,T,l (ailioms with 7 falliotns around it.
To .tail ihrouifli icilli tin- sfit hrrrzc. — Ships of war, (U' those that sail well, may safely
proceed io sea from I'ort Koyal, if they can lav S. by I!, or a littlt; to the etistward of it,
if the foregoing precautions be strictly attended to. When through the chiinnel, sound-
ings will be fouiid of 10 and 11 fathotns, if steering S. by W. until J'ortland bears W,
N.W.
The shoals in general, when tlie sea breeze prevails, may be distinctly seen frotn the
mast-head, '^riiey yi)pear of ii brownish ccdor, being covered >\ith large branches of
coral. The greatest part id' tiiem are very steep, having a depth of several fathoins close
to them. The bottom of the eliaiiiiels between is mostly scd't mud or clay.
SHIPS BOFND to WINDWAKHfiom Port Boviif, if tliey can weather the Middle
Ground by the time the sea-lircMv.e c(mies mi, may pass through (Ik; JOtisteru or Wind-
ward Chamiel, and thus they may gain b or 7 miles more to windward than by going through
the South Channel. Small slooi)-rig:j:ed ves-;(ds gem-rally pass this w.;- ; but to others
it is hazardotts ; because if the land-breeze fails, with an interval of calm, a swell may
roine on ahead, and be extreiiielv daiiL'croiis.
NKW CHANNEL (d" Port Uoyal— The New Channel lies to the eastward of the
South Channel, and almost parallel to it ; it is certainly pr<derable, on many accounts,
lo the South Ciiaimel ; it has smooth water till you come to South Key. with good an-
choring ground, easy riding, andafarilitv of going to sea to (he southward with the se3'
breeze, a? far as S. E. iVc.
390
BLUNT's AMKlllCAX COAST IMLOT.
Tlie lendins m;iik to piitor tills chantipl is, a icinarkalilc tint liiiiumock ou tlie mountain
to tlic N. N. W. (if I'ort Koyal. Wli.'.i ilic iiiiildli- of tlii-< liiiriiiiiock is in a diri-ct li„e
villi llif white liuii^c slaiKJiii;.' tit llic N . ^\'■ "'I' l'".irl Aiiiiiista. it leads to tlie westwuid
wCtlie liailu.i- and I'oiiit Kiiuils, as well as lietueen the east edue (d'tlio Western >Jid(||e
(uouiid, and liie west end of Ka( kliaiii's Kev Shoal. Steer with these marks on till a
reniarkahlo round hillock, to (he wesiward ol" Stony Hill IJarracks, eoiiies open to the
eastward ol' (•nn Key.
After you have opened tliis hiiinmoek, you steer away to the southward, kecpin;^ it
open till'a saddle in ilie inoiintaiiis to the X. W. comes in a lint- witii Fort Small. Tlicn
you brins{ the same hummock on the ceiitrt; or west edf^e td' <!un Key, wliich marks
carry you to the westward of the shoals on the east side (d' the ( liannel, and about a C|iiar.
ter of a mile to the eastward (d' the (!ie;it I'ortuizio'se. .So soon as INntland appears
like an island, you may haul to the cast ward, heini; clear of the reef and shoals of South
Key.
The shoals in this chamiel are, 1. The Western Middle (Srotind, (on tlie east side ot
which there is a buoy.) and the small slioals to the southward (d'this ground.
'2. Tlicr (irea! Itav Slinal, which has )(> feet least water, and a (loatiii)' beacon iu l^
feet.
;?. The Four I'athom Kmdl, a very small sjiot, with no less than 'J I feet water on it,
and deep water all round. Ships of -JO teet drauj;ht may sail over it, as the water is smoolli,
Between (In-at IJav Shoal and South Key j^reakers there are two shoals ; the nordi-
ernmost, at about half a mile S. by W. I'n ni the former, is stee]), and a small part ol it
ii|)pears just above ilie snn'.ne of tlie water. 'JMiis shoal always shows ilsidf by the rippling
on it. About halfway between this and tlie breakers lies i he second shoal, having only
16 feet of water.
The South Key llreakers have a buoy upon them. The marks for the west edi;e ol
this reel are tiie leadiii!,' noK h open a little lo llie eastward of the capsian-housc, and
a saddle mountain lo (he N. W. aii<l !''ort Small in one.
Haifa mile to the soiithwai'l vd'tliese breakers is lli..- Ki;;1it:'eii Feet Ilecf, remaikalilc
by the f^reat swell upmi it. To the westward of that reci', lies the (ircat Portuj^ui-sc,
which is the souihenimost sjioal on the west side of the (diannel.*
OLD llAKHOK, hOAti'S WIIAKF. cVc— Air. L<aid's directions for thescliar-
bors are as Icllow : Bein^ clear of the South or New Chaiiinds, steer to the southward.
or S. by W. and f;ive Wr<'( k Reef a berth of two miles; and then ed^e away, and briii^
the fall'of J{ra/.iletlo Hill to bear W. ,' .\. or W. by X. and steer for it : this will liMd
you to the southward of the I'oul iiroimd idf the Ptdican l\eys,f and as you ajiproacli
them, you will see I'ii;e(m Island, which is low and bushy, in a direction of the fall oi'
Brazilettu Hill ; keep it so, and pass the Pelican Keys in 7},, 7, and 0.\ fathoms ; and. ns
you steer down with those marks (ui, you will see a remarkable hummock ou the iiioun-
tain to the northward, called Cudjoe Hill, (it is like a jockey's cap.) Wlirntliis liiim-
mock comes ou tlie west extremity of the slant fall of (ioat Island, an<l will bear N. J \V,
then haul to the N. W. by N. for Old I larbiu-. This last mark leads you clear to west-
ward of Dry Shoal, part of wlTudi is (>veii with the surface of the water, and you will see
it. You will have from (i' to f>, or .').', fathoms: and, after you have passed Dry Shoal,
continue steering N. W. by N. and you w ill deepen your water to H fathoms.
And as you approach rareeiiim; K'ey, will shoalen it to scmti and six fathoms. Ynu
must give ("aregning Key a berth (d' nearly lidf a mile to avoid a r(!ef that runs froniit
to the southeast ; and steer direct (or tlu^ wliarls at Old Harbor, and anchor in 'Ir, <ir t
fathoms, keejdng clear of the reef on the south side of the harbor, which cencrnllv
shows itself.
Long's Whnrfnnd Salt Turn-. — If you are bound to T.nng's \\'harf, in sailing to the
northward of Pigeon Island, llierc is a small white shoal of only ]H feet on it; it shoaleiw
* The prcccdintr dcsciiplidn of, niid diicclidns for, the h^outli Chnnncls, may be considrred as
inorc for tiic use of the |)ii()i, tliaii of iho pent rn! imvif-'ulor. Cjiptiiiii LIviiiL'ston has f-iiid, " 1 ihink
the Dorrotero is riirht in oniittiiiir dirfctioiis for any of iln' cimiinels ai I'ort Royal, .lariinica, cxcepi-
ing the eiislern one. as diiiclions for the Soiilheni Channels are nliS(ilulriy useless : bcraase no
one who is uiiai-i|uainied Diiiiht l(j be ioo! luiidy ( noiiidi to r.ririiipt carryiiif,' any vessel in or oui,
except by ill'- i'lasicn; ('haiincl. rvi n v.iih (lie iiio.«t cuiiect iiistn:cliiinR iiiid most acciiratp cliari."
tTlie !ai)st lie(|ncMie(l ;niil best <-haniii'l for eiiteriiii; into this irreal bay is belwrrn IVlicaii and
Bare Dush Ke\s ; niid to tiike ii, those who (■(Une iVoin Cow I'ciint must stror W. S. W. ^ ^V. 9
leagues, and until ll;e slope ol die Hraziletid .Mouniain Ik ais AV. In- N. With this mark and hciir.
ing you proceed to rincoii Island, &C. The liraziietlo Moiuitain cannot he mislakrn ; it bcin? ilie
nortliernmoRt of the two, wbicii hit srcn to the west, and the poiitbern i.<: of n round shape. The
opening w hirh thef.0 moantulnr form? h the jioint to he used :;e the leading n:nrk, btflring W. by N.
as above. — Dsncicio, tyr,
gradually
smith edg
between tl
the straii'l
the top h
niiiiiijtain.'^
or.'!,l I'allu
Salt lit
keep the s
you close t
but the no
Salt Islam
and is stee
which you
which SOI
tuo or two
Salt Kiver
south edge
fathoms, ;u
necessary
south end (
ed^e of the
ill five fat Ik
Pm/cr Jl
a cable's lei
anchor in -1
the reef on
that you ffei
IVrst Ila
nearlv even
water. Tin
in it. Thei
north reef, i
not show an;
cult. As yoi
is also shoal
(hiug lo ,
with the Ian
hreezo come
may go ou e
reef of tlie H
is to \\\a non
Point by yoi
fathoms. It
and wait for
between the
to the southx
ris' Shoal, ii
keep it so ur
ris' Shoal, ai
on the lowei
white water
Shoal, you i
fall of Cudj(
case you nn
saddle hill t(
* It is said,
for there is m
general. Ma
upon the low
I-ittle (lont Isl
Key bearing i
Little (Joat Isi
Ilia mile, and
guiile in stand
ou tlie niountaiD
is ill ii direct line
III (lie M<'st\\;in|
Wcsicni AJiddlp
><■ marks on till a
iinit's oiu'ii to tlic
iwnrd, keeping it
'ort .Siiiiill. Tiit'ii
'v. which marks
iiikI aixiiit a r|inir-
I'lirliaiid appears
I slioais of Soiuli
n tlio east side of
round.
tinj; beacou iu lb
I feet water on it,
!• water is .sinootli.
iioais ; the iiorili-
a small part dlii
;'lf by tlie rippling
hoal, having onlv
• the west edge ol
pstan-house, and
lleef, reiiiarkiiiile
ireat Portiigiii'se,
Diis for tliesc har-
o tlie southward,
e away, and hriii;;
this will k'lid
s joii apjiroiuli
in of tlie fall nf
thorns ; and. ns
k on the iiiouii-
AVlirn this hum-
ill bear N. i W.
ou clear to wpst-
aiid you will see
sed Dry Shoal,
iiims.
fathoms. Ynu
hat runs from it
nclior in '1.', or I
which cencrally
111 sailing to the
m it; it shoalens
tio
bt.unt's ameuica?; coast pilot.
391
' lie con.sidrrcd as
has Fnid, " 1 think
I, .lamaica, except-
.'less : tit'caiisc nu
iiy vcs.^f'l ill or oui,
■it accuratr ciiari."
twrni IVliraii and
liis mark anil licar.
lakni ; ii btin? die
uind .'shnpr. Tlifl
btflrintr 'W.byN.
gradually on the cast end, and bears north from I'iiicon Island, ilistanco one mile. Tho
south edjze of liound Hill, just open with Ura/.iictto liiil, leads on it. Voii may sail
hetween this shoal and I'ii^^eoii Island, in H, 7, (i, or •'> fathoms; but to the northward is
the strai'-hlest course. After passiny I'i-coii Island, slecr to ihi' norlhwcst, and brinn
the top house about onc-lliird from ilie north side of the large opeuin;,; or gap in th
iiioiiiitains ; thi.s ui;
or;!,\ fathoms
k leads between the reefs to the ancliorage at Long's Wharf, in 4
or.ih lainoiiis.
tfult liivcr Anchorauc. — If you are bound to Salt River, after passing Piirenu Island,
keep the south part ad" Hraziletto liill open a little oii your larlio.ird bow, which will leaci
vou close to .Salt island ; yon may goeitlnrto tin; iiortiiward oi- soiitluvaid of .Salt Island,
but the north passage is the best. Vou may pass within a cable and a half's distance ot'
.Salt Island, on the north and west part: on the south part is a reef which shows itself,
and is steep close to it. There is a reef ('xtendiui^ aloii!; on the east side of Lout; island,
which vou see: and also a reef exti iidiii:; from the .^alt ivi\<'i- shore to tiie eastward,
which soiretiines breaks, 'riieretbre steer round the north end of .'>alt Island, at about
two or two and a half cables' distance from it; and then sietr towards the entrance of
.Salt Kiver, until you briiijj the soiitii i'd;,;e of I'i^eon Island almost in a line with tho
south edirc of ."^alt Island: keep them in that direction, and when you are in 4.', 4, or ;J.V
fathoms, anchor aecordinij; to thr. si/e id' your ship. It you are in a \ow vessel, it will be
necessary to i.'o a little up the sliioiuis, to see l'ii;eiin Island over Salt Island. The
south end of l'ii;eoii Island, a little open to the southward of .Siik Island, leads on tho
edije oftheSalt Kiver Keef. There isi;(iod anchorage under the west part of .Salt Island,
ill five fathoms and a half, good holding ground
Pcdicc Jidi/. — To sail into this bay, give the reef tliat runs olVlvoeky I'oiiit a berth of
a cable's length or more, and steer towards the north part of the sandy beach, and
anchor in 4.', 4, or .'!^ fathoms, go.id liolding groiiiid. Tiie rci-f olV lloeky Point, and
the reef on the .south side of the bay, are nearly even with the siirl'ace of the water, so
that you generally see them. There is a great sea in this bay, with strong sea-breezes.
Wrsl Harbor. — The enlranci! into tliis harbor is between two coral reefs, that aro
nearly even with the suri'ace of the «ater; and the heads ol'eoral lie pu'iitly show above
water. The ehaimel between the reefs is above half a mile wide, w ith (> and G}; fathom.s
ill it. There is very good anchorage, with smooth water, just to the westward of the
north reef, in .'3,i, ."), or 4 fathoms, good holding ground. The land to the westward does
not show any mark that 1 could find to guide you into tliis aiiclioia:,;e, but it is notdilTi-
rult. As you go to the westward in the west harbor, the water shoalens to 8 or 9 feet. It
is also shoal on the south side towards the mangroves, and sniootli w;itcr.
(loiiip: to Sen Jhitii Old llcriior, 7v;Wi;'.s ]l',i(trf', i^'\ — .*^llips generally cet uiuler wav
with the land wind, so as to '^et clear of the reels near the anchorage, before tlie sea-
breeze comes on. ileiiit; clear of tho reel's, you may turn out with the sea-breeze, and
may go on either side of Pigeon Island. The chaiiiiel lietween Pigeon Island and the
reefoftiie Half Moon Keys is two miles wide, with deep water; but the smoothest water
is to tho northward of Pigeon Island. You may stand towards (loat Island and CJabarita
Point by your lead ; the soundings are gradual, and tack when you come to o or 4,',
fathoms. If the sea-biee/,e should be very strong, you may anchor under Dry Shoaf,
and wait for the land wind. lUit, with moderati? sea liree/es, any ship may turn out
between the keys aiul reed's, IJeiiig as far to the eastward as Dry Shoal, and in standin"
to the southward, your leading mark for the channel lietween IJarc IJiish Kev and Mor-
ris' Shoal, is Cudjoe Hill, on the slant fall of (Joal Isl.ind, the same as for l)rv Shoal ;
keep it so until the Half Moon K'evs come in one; then you are to the eastward of Mor-
ris' Shoal, and may edge away a little, keeping the Cudjoe Hill about a large sail's breadth
on the lower part from the slant of (ioat Island, which mark will lead you along tho
white water on Rare Hush side to sea. Hut ii", in standing to the southward from Dry
Shoal, you find that you cannot weather Morris' Shoal,* which you will know by the
fall of Cudjoe Hill not being within a sail's breadth of the fall of (loat Island; in this
case you must tack to the northward, when ]>are Uiisli Key bears K. S. K. or when a
saddle hill to the northwest of Pig(?on Island is just coining on the north end of Pigeon
* It is paid, tlint nbout thirty years ago, ships sailed over this slionl ; if so, it must have ^own fast,
for there is not at present, more than !) or 10 feet on tho north cdire of it, and n jrrpnt .swrlj in
general. Marks for the cast end (d'it : Cudioe Hill, about half way from the fail of (Jont Island,
upon the low and bushy land towards the risiiur to the westwiird (ttiis ris-iiiK is coinmonlv called
liittle Gont Island ;) and tiie Hall' .Menti Keys iiliniil fmir (ic^rees open, and lUMtli part ol J^are Bush
Key bcarinp E. ^ S. Marks \\>r ihe west end are, CiKijoe Hill, on the al'ore-ineiitioned risiiirj of
I.ittic (ioat Island, and Wnn', lltisiij^cy beiiriiiL'^ II. '[ S. It is in lcn«ih li:il(; iimre than a quarter
III a mile, and in brcndili about onc-si.\tIi of a niiie, and siioalcns too sudden for your lead io be a
t'uiile in standing towards it.
392
BMJNT S AMERICAN COAST IMLOT.
Isliiii']. Aii'l, in stniidiii; in llif iioriliwiird, tuck when the fall ot" flra/.'ilt.'tto Hill cotn.;s
on the cftiln'. or ihmi Ui.- iioitli end ol i'if^f'on InIiukI : you may a[)|)ioacli ilie white
water on the side of Hare JUisli to 'j I'adionis. Tliere is a good eliaiincl between iNloiris'
Slioal and Halt' Moun Keys, hut it is dangerous to approaeli the latter on the soutlicast
«ide, tor ycMi will have I'roui (> or 7 laihoins to I'.' li- t in one or two easts ol'the lead. To
tiie K. S. K. and S. K. «)l Mave I5ush Key, distanre ahout ont; mile, are some spot-i di
coral, with iVom :i\ to o lathoms on them, and 7 I'aihonis close to tlu'ni. And to tin
southward and S. S. K. oltlte I'ortland Keys, distant about two miles, are some spots o|
3,', and -1 fathoms on theai. Alter you have passed tiiose keys in sailiiii; to the westward,
come no nearer I'ortland than two or two and a halt miles, or 7 or H lathoms ; lor tjie
reeCoir Rorky Point, which is the west part of Pmtland, extends nearly two luilus from
the p(;int to the southward.
PORT ROVAIi TO I'ORTLANi).— In proeeedinn towards Portland, observe that
Wreek \{vy't\ which is a lar^e shoal composed of dry rocks and breakers, lies about liiilf
way between I'ort Royal and Old llarlxu', at the distance of more than a tuile iVonMlie
shore. This dani:er, wlii( h appears in the day, consists of two parts, havint; between
them a ehaunel of 1 fathoms water. Ships passing; in the nii:lit should a|)proa(li in,
nearer than in I"-' fathoms, (u- eome to an am'hoia<;e until moruius;. Within the reef
there is pood shel » ■, and tolerable anehorai;e in 1 and T) fathoms, bottom of sand, wii|i
shells and mud. Ilere ves>.els occasionally ride durin;,; ihi' pre\alence ol' a breeze, iVc
Kroni J'ort Royal to Portland, the distance, on a circuitous <'ourse, is ') lea^iues. Ji,
tliis track ■ ien clear of the South Channel, give Wreck lu.'ef a berth ot 'J miles.
iMini-p are .^ontidiniis outward as I'aras with the easternmost land of I lellshire, bearin;
N. ' ! II'' '-focky I'oint, or the southernmost land of I'ortland, .\. \V. .', N. Wiii.
thes- u'ii. ,s soundings have been found of fnun 17 to 'Jl> fathoms, and tlie next cast
no gn. I', i at f^ * f. iioms, alihoiii;h not a ship's leni^th from the tormer.
.a
The Pedro Keys ; from the Jinnnrls of II. ^f. S. WUirhcstcr, Captahii the IL
II '. ir,li,sh;/, li. .V.
on.
TIIK PORTLAND I\')CK is elevated fr.mi 1.') to •,>() feet above the level of tliesra
The Winchesier rounded it on the south side, and brought il to bear eiist, canyiiii; Irom
10 to 11 fathoms water, (Ui a sandy bottom, \viih pieces ol' eor.il. In this bearing ,i vcv
eel mij'ht anchor with safety in moderate wi-ather.
We made the latitude 17"^ 7'
liiirj;ilU(le 77 ~5
^0
N.
which is oidy 'JO" diii'erent from l)e iMayne's meridian distanct! reduced; lie Laviii;
considered I'ort Royal in 7I> oJ' .'is' W'., whilst we used 7() AW \V.
Wo stood friun the Portland Rock to the S. \V'., earryiuir from PJ to 1.3 fathnnis.ami
liavint: these souu(liiii,'s larther to the southward than laid down by the chart. A\'os;i\v
tlie Eastern Mreakers. so called by l)e Mayiie : they appeared to have an extent ol iibdii!
two cables' leni;th, with two small rocks above water, and were breaking; in all (|uailer<.
Near thest; the watershoaled to s fatlioms anil a half; and when they (tiie rocks) borf
N. iN. E., distant A miles, we only had 7/, fathoms, the Pedro Keys just then eoiiiinn m
sight. Steering W. by S., we soon after liad no bottom, having got into tin; indent, ii
shown in Do Mayne's chart, so that the shoalest water we liad must liave been very near
the edge of the bank.
We did not go luarerthan a mile and a lialf to tlin tsastward of the Pedro Kevs.aiid
had no soundings with tin- hand-lead ; but the chronometers gave the centre of thcinni-
■die kev 77^ 47' l."> " W., or art' l.'! " west r.rPort Royal.
THE SOI 'Til WEST BREAKERS.— They" are dangerous, and require a stnct
Jookout. The sea breaks orer two small rocks, not more tiian three feet above the level
of the sea, constantly, but so irregularly, that fnun the deck of a vessel, and in a nioile-
rate breeze, a high breaker might not be distinguishable oftener than (Uicein .'> iniiiiite«,
and the ordinary ones would betaken lor waves. Jn the Winchester, with a good masl-
head lookout, 've passed within tiirce miles of thesi'. without their being discovered.
On the west side they are bold to. Having stood to the northward on tlie bank, pas^
ang them at tlie above named distance, we carried 1 ■;>, 11, antl 10 fathoms for six iiiiicj.
When the breaker Imu'c S. S. W. a!)(mt tliat distance, we tacked, and stood for it; and
when about three miles distant, the soundings become irregular, varying from 11 to 8]
lfatlM>in.s.
We were at noon as near to it as one mile, bearing east, and \\c had not less than nine
fatlioms.
The whole breaking part does not e?;trnd more than I or I ,'; cable's length ; but it is to
be supposed there is foul ground to the eastward of it for a mile or so. The ocean colorol
the water
tiuii.s in ap
I
Mayne's re
The Pe(
the rcprese
snake, wbi
exist, as til
CAKEI;
winds fr(Mn
a spii, of \:
waril of Km
ari" only '>
from Rock
N. and S.
'1^0 sail
it, until Ivi
ing J{obcri>
hill above in
beach. W
cause your
but a strong
Along tin
Hay, at a in
lathoms.
AliLir.A
of the water
and vessels n
c ho rage for ;
BRCNE
close to it, li
aluMir a mile
bioadth : it h
the shore.
ph;i)|{o 1
anchorage fo
guide for anc
to. OlfPari
which is lorn
Parratee Poi
The en trim
ter. To sail
of Parratee T
N. K. ; then
channel. It
PORT R(
South Chann
by keeping tl
bears west ; i
to be appreh(
wiiicli is the !
Pedro Bin
At 1 or .') mill
railed the W
like a schooii
From Parr
W. <) miles.
iiiimber of rc^
N. W. by W.
hnen regular!
tctt of water.
If going to
<:are not to aji
V J
BLUiNTS AMKinCAN COAST PILOT.
393
ilftto Hill coino!,
)i'uacli tliu wiiut'
I ln'tw«;«'ii Morris'
on llic souiliciist
^ (iCtiic Irad. To
art* soiin" s|i()i,-i di
fin. And to thi
are some spots ut
;; to the westward,
latlioniH ; lor tiie
!} two miles Iroin
land, observe that
Ts, lies abiuit imli
in a mile Iruu' the
s, having Ijciwcen
mid a|)|)roa< h in,
Within tlip reel
Itom ot" sand, with
e ol' a hreey.c, iVc,
, is '» h-aiiucs. h,
ii ot 2 miles.
I lellshiio, hcarin;
. W. y N. Witii
, and the next cast
»r.
)/(//», //tr llvn.
le level of the sra
cast. CiuiviDulncr.
this bearing ,i vcs-
■ N.
ucod ; lie Laviii;
\'i f.ithoins, niHi
ciiart. W't'saw
1 I'Ment ot alxMii
S in all (|uarter«
(the roeks) borf
then eoiuiiio m
lo the iiiilfiit, K
been ver)- near
ivc
i
Pedro Keys, and
nitre of the mid-
re(inire a strin
't above the level
'1, and in a nidde-
nee in .') iiiitiiite«,
nth a good mast-
discovered,
n the bank, pas*-
ins for six iiiilc?.
stood for it; anil
iig from 11 to (^J
lot less than nine
igth ; but it is in
he ocean culoroi
(he water above it was remarkiible Kv^n in suuadiiigH, and I should be forthi-s reason chu^
tioiis in ai)[noa<'liiii!; it to the eastward.
Latitude of .Sonth-West Hreaker iT)"" \r 5(i" N.
Longitudiiof do. 7H 10 Wi. \V.
or I" 'il' 3-2" west of myridian of I'ort Royal, whieh is nearly a mile to the eastward of Do
Mayne'siedueed.
The Pedro Shoals (Uivora iJaiik of the Spaniards) have been remilarly surveyed, and
the representation wf them in the eliarls is to be relied on. Of the ( 'ascaliel, or liattle-
siiaUe, which is supposed to distinguish the N. W. end of the I'edro llaiik. it does not
exist, as there has been an arcurate survey of the bank, and it was not lo be found.
CAIUilSLK Oil WITH V-WOOI) HAY.to the west of Portland, is an open bay,
winds friHii W. to S. K. Its S. K. extremity is the roeky point of Portland, from which
a spit, of IJfeel of water, extends about three ((iiarters of a mile to the S. W. West-
ward of Rocky Point is a bank, called Kobertson's Shoal, on some part of which thero
are only '> feet at low water. The outer ed^e of this shoal is one mile and a half west
from Koiky Point. The tiirm of the shoal is nearly oval, from K. to W. Its breadth,
N. and S. is three (piaiters of a mile.
To sail into the bay, bring a remarkable round hill to bear nearly north, and steer for
it, until Rocky I'oint comes almost on with the east point of Portland. Hence, round-
ing Eobcrtsons Shoal, you may come to an anchor in from .'J to 4 fathoms. With ihs
hill above mentioned N. by K., there is a spotof ;ij fathoms, at about 'J.' miles from the
beach. With the fort N. E. or N. N. K. is the best jilace to anchor in for loading, be-
cause your boats can sail iioth ashore and aboard with the sea-winds. No tides here,
but a strong westerly current generally riiiifi in the oiling. Var. iP 'jd' K.
Along the coast to the westward, to the distance of nearly twenty miles from Carli.sle
Hay, at a mile or a mile and a half from shore, there is r tgular depth of 4 and 41
fathoms.
ALLIGATOR PONT) KKY.— Alligator Pond Key is a kej ust above the surface
of the water, with a reef all round it. Its distance from le sh.ire is about four miles,
and vessels may approach it by the load, or on seeing the brrakers. There is good an-
chorage for small vessels along shore, between it and the main, in ;i and 4 fathoms.
Blvl'.NL l> VNK, a small bank, having on it little more tl .n 4 fathoms, with VI or 1.3
close to it, lies six miles S. K. by compass, from Allisralor Pond Key. The shoal \%
about a mile and three (piarters in extent, from east ti est, and one mile and a half in
breadth : it has from 4 to b fathoms water on it, and the outer edge is about 8 miles tVom
the shore.
PKDKO HAY', cVc— In Pedro Bay, to the westward of Pedio RhilT, there is good
anchorage for any vessels, but it is open to southerly winds. The lead is here the best
guide for anchoring. T'lie coast hence to the westward, nearly lo Parralee Point, is bold
hi. Olf Parratee Point is a small reef; and to the N. W. of this point is HIack River,
which is formed by extensive reefs. To clear these reefs, keep Pedro Rluffopen with
Parratee Point.
'Vhe entram-r of Black River is between two reefs, and has not more than IR feet wa-
ter. To sail into the river, when advancing from the eastward, keep Pedro Hlulf open
nf Parratee Point, till you bring the church on with a gap in the highland, or to bear
N. K. ; then steer directly in for the church, which will carry you into the best of the
channel. It is full of heads of coral rocks.
PORT ROYAL TO RLA^K RIVKR; by Mr. Town, lf^l7.— On leaving the
South Channel of Port Royaf when i)oundlo the wer^tward, you may clear Wreck Reef
by keeping the Maga/.inc of Fort .lohnson open of St. (leorge's Rocks, until Portland
bears west; thence you may alter your course along the land, as there are no dangers
to be apprehended, until you approach .\lligator Key, about 4 miles S. E. \ E. fron^
which is the 15rune Reef, already described.
Pedro ]{|u(Vis very remarkable, and may be known from any other land on the coast.
At 4 or 5 miles to the eastward of the bluff, there is a remarkable white spot in the cliff,
called the White Horses, kvhich, when you first make it from the eastward, appears
like a schooner under sail, close to the land.
From Parratee Point to Luana Point, the bearing and distance are N. W. by W. \
W. ') miles. The coast between forms I ho bay of Black River, which is obstructed by a
number of reefs, all of which lie within the line of the two exterior points, and a course
N. W. by W. \ W. will therefore lead clear of them. The bay does not ajijiear to have
been regularly surveyed. The main channel, which is between two reefs, has only 18
feet of water.
If going to Black River, or its hay, when advancing towards Parratee Point, take
care not to approach the point nearer than one niile, as there is a reef extending off to
50
r.
394
BLUNTS AMFKK A.\ COAST I'lf.OT.
the S. W. nearly a mile. ^'()llr leading marks into iIiIh hay, to tin- andiora^e whnr
liant rtliips load, will lie tlit' < liiircli |ii>l oprn to ill*' caHlwani uT a Inrfrc (iilloii-ini':
iin'r(
run iu with this mark, until yon arc within iiall a niilr ol th«> town, and anchor in ;diiiiM
IH Icet. Lar^c ships, that cannot approach so nc;ir the town, shoiihl anchor nmier iIk
pastern shore, in H or 'I laihoins. N Our liest rnaik lor anchoriiiu is. Pedro IMuP slnii in
aliout a cable's length n( Parratee Point, in ')> lathoiiis, with the town hcarini; ahoitt N.
K. Iiy K. }, K. 'I'here is a very danyeroiis reel lyimi on the western side ol ihis hiiv,
with only 4 liet ot water on th ; shoalcsl part. There \h also a eoral bank, nearly in the
middle ol the hay, wiih only ',•;, lathoms over the shoalest part.
From [iiiaiia Point, the coast continues clear for a leauiie and a half to the N. W., Inn
it thence becomes foul, and so continues to Uluelield's IJay, iVc. 'I'lie dirert coiifst
and distance, clear oldaniicr, Inuii liUana Point to Suulh Negril, tlie S. VV. end ol .1,,.
maiea, are \V. N. W. \ \V . nearly III Icaiiues.
*MLnKPlKlil)'.'> l?AV'. — Tliis pait of the coast is environe I by reefs, and the ;ni
chorajje here for lar;:e ships is without a rocky leduc, which strelclies Irom C'rah j'onil
Point to the west of !>hieli«'lds, and joins the reef of .Savanna la Mar. Vessels cnn,
ing from tlw eastwanl. to anchor in the l)ay, must keep down by the outside of the ici,
or keep the land to the eastward ojicn (iltiie |)oinf. until ihe Icadin-j-marli is hroiiulii .mi.
which is the overseer's house, a little open to llw eastward ol ihe tavein. Iiearint; N. K.
by K. J K. For anchoriii';, brim; the overseer's house and tavern in a line, N. K. hv
K. ,j K. and the eastermiiost point K. .S. E. Ships drawiii}; Id or 17 leet of water, m\
sail over the rocky ledne, in .'3^' or 4 lathoms, with the overseer's house and tavern
as above, unlil over the ledce, which may be known by (indiinj; a sandy br)fioin. aihl ,
depth of o.', or (> fatiioms. The watering; place is to the northward of the l>lulf I'liim.
on the lee side o( the bay. Water may also be obtaiiu-d at a stream o(f liluelieUr> Ki
ver, near the tavern.
In steering in, keep tiic lead going, and be ready to anchor, as the water 8hnHlpn«
rather sudtleiilv.
SAVANNA liA MAR.— The coast from Bluefields to .Savanna la Mar is rork\
in some places, to the distam;e of two miles from the slnue. The entrance to .Sjivant,.
la Mar is very narrow, and lies between a small reef called the iMiddle (iround. (i.|
which there is a depth of only 4 feot,) and another reef liaving 7 or H feet over it. Ii
the chaimel there is a depth of I') or "JO feet. The leading mark in, is a large i;:)[ini
the highland, called the Dolphin Head, in a line with a remarkable large tree on ihf
lowtniid, to the eastward of tlie town, and bearing N. ^' W. This mark leads rlnsr tr,
the Middle (iround, which will be seen. After jiassing the latter, haul to the eastwaril
and anclior in 17, iTi, or I.'j feet of water. This iliaiinel should never !)<• atteiii|)te(l wnli
out a pilot.
A mile and a half to the westward of the former channel, is tlie (Ireat Cjiannel o( S:.
vanna la Mar, which is a mile in breadth, and has a depth of "^4 to I'J and l,"} feet tc
wards the shore. To sail through, in miil-ehaiinel, it is only re(|uisite to bring the t(,r
on, bearing N. N. E.
On the southi'rn extremity of the b.uik extending from shore, between .Savanna la Mv
and .lohn's Point, the Hritish ship Monarch struck, in 17H"J, upon a bottom of cdn
This extremity lies with .lohn's I'oini bearing N. W. by \V. A W. and will be avoidd
by keeping one half of the high land of South Negril open to the soutliward of .loliii.
Point.
In traversing hereabout, it is necessary to be very particular in the use of the ImiI:
for the bank, whicli extends along the front of Hlueiields, and thence to ojipositc S:i
vanna la Mar, &c. is rocky, and has, on its edge, from •-'(! to •J4 feet of water; and on it.
as on the White Banks, there are many shoals with little water (ui them, some of whirb
uncover, and many have breakers. Without the edsie of the reel, and very near to i!.
are ."i fathoms of water, which augments to 1.'5 fatiioms at three (|uarlers of a iiiili trnm
the edge of tlie bank ; the depth, therefore, is the best guide, for, when you get from
8 to 10 fathoms, you will be from one third to half a mile from the edge of the reel;
and when you set I.'J fathoms you will be three (luarters of a mile from it : and. nursii
ingyour route, you sliould not keep in the de|tth of H to 10 fathoms, hut in thar nf 1-
to 15; for only in tlie vicinity of the anchorage tliey are for taking, should vessels ;tt
into the fust of these depths. The anchorage of .Savanna la Mar is of the same nature
as that of Hlueiields : large ships must anchor outside of tiie reef, and, in such a sitin-
tion, they will not be sheltered from tlie sea, from east round to ,S. by W. Jt seems pro-
bable that such will very seldom come to this place, because tliey here run much risk of
lo.^ing the anchors; as, tlie instant there is the least appearance of the wind freshciiiua.
I)
II
th
* South i kr^es from Bluefields, lies a rocky bank, discovered in 1821, with from 13 to 20 la.
thorns on it.
thiv mils
aiielior u
with the
IMIISS OVC
W. «hii 1
if the *!•'
westward
only ti» •*!
boat may
to the eilj
uldiii: lilt
wll;of ol
roi'k.
WKS'I
coast is
called N.
North Ne
vessels ;
\-r. S;..
Hides Iro
who ii) t
HetMcci
IS low, ami
iiurbor ol
Mr. Tov
the north s
close as sin
llarl)or ol
called the I
niiirkal)le w
IIAKBO
island. It
eailed Luct
the harl)or,
a reet'stretc
lir'Hi the re
liai'ii i lill, w
iiii: nearly .''
Mill be with
ill a or (> fall
ijiicea Poll
Those ap
miles I'roiii
times break!
ward, there
Within ll
to, and the 1
)'"or passi
stands on a
of the fort,
westward ol
ing ti) lit, ill
Mosi^i;
ward of the
from all wi
breadtJi, bu
torn, in geii
or over its
S. E. by S
entrance is
MONTI-
This is a gi
*A rock, w
to, abuut, as
tain it was it
blu.xt's amkuican coast pilot.
395
Inijif cnlloii-trt'o:
1(1 ;iii('lii)r i)i .iIkiiii
iiiK'hnr iiii'l)'!' till
cilro Hliili' !<luii III
I l)f':irin!: iilioiii N,
II sidf (iC iliis li;i\
)aiik. iifurly in thr
Ito the N. W. ,1)111
\'\\*' (limct coiiiM
I «. W. 111(1 ol .1,,.
ro't's, iiiid Jlic ;iii
■s Ironi Oriil) I'dtul
nr. V'j'ssrls ((iin
iiitsidf (ililic ic.|,
iiiirK i«* tir(iiii;lii(i|i,
(Mil. licariHi; .\. [
II a line. N. K. h>
left (tl wairr. ni;i\
house and tavern
ndy lidttoiii, ami «
Dri'lic I'.liitr I'.iini,
1 oil 1MucI'k'U1'> Ki
the water shnalent
a hi Mar is rnrk\
itraiice to Savanii,
li(hilp (iround. (ir
• rt leet over it. h;
1, is a large ynpni
h> larjip tree on tiit
arii leads v\(i>r u.
1 1 to the ea.^twnrii.
attempted wiih
at ('linnni'l of.^j
'» and 13 Icct tn-
e to bring flic lur
II Savanna la Mi:
a lioltom of cdrnl.
1(1 will he avoidd
uthward ot Jolin's
le use ol" the lend;
•(■ to ojiposite i<;i-
water; and on it.
'Ill, some ol" whiit
id very near in i!,
ters ol" a inih Irorn
hen you get Irom
'dge of the reel:
ni it ; and. ]nirs\i-
but in tliiit iif ]:;
liould vessels ;ft
r the same nature
I, in suel; a situ;i-
\V. Jt seems pro-
run mueli risk of
wind freshcniui!,
ihev must maUf sail. Siirh vdhmcI* hh do not draw more than I'i or l.T (Vet of water may
am lior upon llu- hank, and beliiiul, (or in the lee of the reels.) in l.'j or Ih Icet (d water
i; N. N. W. ', W. marly three (|iiarters of a miledistanl. Ndii may
Miih the, town hearm
eross (jvcr tli« edu«' of the hank so soon a.>i the wliaives at .Savaiina la .M.ir hear N. W. by
W . which will lie three (|uarttrrs of n mile to windward of the Kastern ( haniiel, (that i»,
il tiw. vessel is on the edge of the reel, or near it,) and sending a Itoal to he placed to the
wcstuaril of ill'* Mid'lle (iround ; it will serve for a niiide and liiioy ; and then you have
oiiU to shave close to liie boat, as the mean to keep clear ol the reel to leeward. The
boat inav proceed with the leadini; mark as above, or may steer northerly until slie comes
to the edge of the reel, wiiieh riiiis along to the east of the anchorage; and, keeping
jlnii" the NOiiiheni e(|ge of this reef, she must theme ste(!r N. VV. I ,N. so soon as the
wharf ol' .Savanna la Mar !.M>ars on tliut rhumb; with this course she will pass uvcr the
rock.
VVK.STKRN KM) (>!•' .1 A.M AK'A.— From .St. .John's Point to Sonlh Negri!, the
coast is bold to, or high and steep. 'I'tie indent between .South and N(U'th Negril, is
called Negril, or iiong Hay, and alfords tolerable anchorage. < 'lose to the south side of
North .Negril, is .Nci^ril Harbor, a small harimr with good atichoring ground for small
vessel..; ai.d. 'o the norih are ( )iange Hay and Hall-moon JJay, places rit for Jirogers,
Jcc. S'.A miK's to the N. K. from North Negril is (ireen Island Harbor, and about 'Jj
miles Irom the latter, is J)avis Cove. 'J'hese are plac-.-s seldom resorted to, but by those
wh(» go thither on purpose to load, and have pilots.*
JJetwceii Nejril and .Nmlh I'cdro the coast is bold, ex»;epting at (incn Island, which
is low, and environed by a reel, nearly even with the water. I'rom I'edro I'oint to the
liarbor of ijUcea, vessels may stand within a mile of the shore.
Mr. Town says, a ship being olf the west end of .lamaica. and bound to any port ou
the north side, should endeavor to round the points called .'south and .North Negril, as
eldse as she can; for the eurreiil, in general, sets to the .N. 1). if proceeding for the
llarlior of jjiicea. you may know its entrance by a remarkable notch in the mountain,
called the Dolphin Head. .\t a little to the westward of tlie harbor there is, also, a re-
iiiiirkable white spot ni the land, which may he. seen eight or ten miles olf.
IIARBOll OK Jil'CEA. — This harbdr is one of the best on the north side of the
island. It is sale, tliere being little dantzer in sailing in or out. 'I'hc N. K. point is
(ailed liucea I'oint, and on the western point stands the htrt. N'esstds, having opened
the harbor, stand directly in. only giving the l-'ort i'oint, on the western side, a berth, as
a reef stretches from it. on the e\lremity (d' which tliere is generally a buoy. To sail in,
lir'iii: the remarkable niouiilain, called the Dolphin Head, open to ihe westward of Har-
baia iiill, which has a house on the top ol" it. and is on the east side of the harbor, bear-
ing nearly .S, by l], ('oiitiniie on in this direction, until the fort bears west, when you
will be within the l<'ort Heef. Hence proceed towards the town on the west, and anchor
iiioor () fathoms, muddy bottom, with the fort bearin,' from N. by W. to N. N. W. and
Ijucea I'oint, at the eastern side of the entrance, from N. N. E. to N. N. E. | E.
Those approaching this place from the eastwaid, must observe to keep at least three
miles from shore, until past HiicUner's Heel, which lies olf Miis(|uito ( Ove, and some-
tinii's breaks, it is also to be observed that, around Liicea I'oint, and to the north-east-
ward, there is a rocky (hit, extending out to a considerable distance.
Within the point the reef extends to a cables lenitli from shore. If is nearly sleep
to, and tiie heads of coral sometimes appear above water.
For |)assing clear of the edge of the eastern bank, the mark is Malcolm House, which
stands on a small hill or rising at the east end ol' liiicea Town, brought on the east end
of the fort, and kept so until von bring the Dolphin Head, as already mentioned, to the
westward of Harbara Hill. This mark leads through H, 7, and b fathoms, then deepen-
ing to l;i, and shonlinu again into the harbor.
MoSt^lilTO COVE, an excellent harbor, lies three and a half miles to the east-
ward of the harbor of Lucea. Here a liundred sail of merchant ships may lie securely
from all winds. The ( hannel, at the entrance, is little more than a cable's length in
breadtli, but widens inward to where the harbor has from 7 to 4i fathoms. The bot-
tom, in general, is muddy. To sail in you may pass to the eastward of Hiickner's Reef,
or over its eastern end, in h\ or 6 fathoms. The course into Mosquito Cove is nearly
S. E. by S., but it should not be attempted by a .stranger without great caution, as tlie
entrance is much contracted by a reef from the eastern side.
MONTECiO HAY.— The iiorthorn pmnt of Montego Hay lies in latitude 18° 32^'.
This is a good hay with the wind from N. N. E. to the eastward and soutliward ; but it
lib from 13 to 90
;t
»A rock, with 24 feet water on it, was seen some years since by one of the ships in a convoy lying
to, abuut, as well as I can recollect, 40 miles west of Negril Point, Jamaica: and I am pretty ce.
tain il was in lat. 16° 24'. It was uoticed in public orders at Fort Royal.
396
MLl'i\T S AMEUK'AIS tOAJJT I'lLOT.
in opon lo thn north ami woMt ; iiiid (lie n(irtli«>rly wind, in npc<>nil>rr and .tanunry. Ii;i«
('re<|iifiitly diivfii vrtstlNon uliori'.
'I'd Nail in iVdiii (he i-;mi win!, civr tlic puinl, on roinin^ down, a ln'itli (if (>vo miii-K, m
order to avoid a rref wlncli ixii'imIm tVoni il, and winch niaj In- distincliy Hrt-n (roni tlir
buwM, wlien in 4 or A lathoniM. W'licn yun <>\h-i\ xhr Iohd yon may approaili tlin ri'vl,
wliicii is prrtty tttofp. inin lo, '», or f* CailioniM, and will nvf tin- boitoni. Von now haul
round towards tin- town, hiii must not vcnluri' to an'iior until yon lia«r well ^liiit in San-
dy I'oint, (witliout tin- liav on ilic nortli.) with n|d Kort Point. Kor. with Sandy Point
in siuht, tl <>rc an- Irom .;.'> to :;il taihoms, and th'' hank is so stt'«'j) that the anrhiii »i||
not hold. !(■ ;t shi|) drives oil' she will, with h Hva hrp«^zi'. he in danqcr ol" Rroimdmu dn
the |p(! reels. 'I'lie lunrk lor the he»t anchorayt' is the harracks upon the hill in a lun'
or nearly so, with Ucilwuk's Stone U'liarl, on the N. K- side of the hay. The gr(Miii,)
here is jrood in 11, 10, and ') lathoms. On entering from the westward witli ii fair wind.
tlie church hearint; ea-it leads dirertly lo the ain'horajic.
The I'ollowin); description and directimis, are those ol' Mr. Town :— Montej^o Hnv if.
fords good anchcnaKe I'or '.'() or .'!(> vessels, cxce|'.t during the prevalence ol' strong norti'
winds, which generally (lommerK i- in the heginning ol Noverrdior, and end in the laiifi
ond of l''ehrii;uv. U'llh the general trade wind, which is irom the N. K. to the H. \
K., ships will ride here with perfect safety. There is a small harhor. «ir cove, in the .\
E. part of the hay, which will hold from 10 to 1"J vcH.seU. This* is the only safe phiic
for 8hi|)s during tin strong north windn.
On loniing into this hay with the sea bree/r, which is from N. K. to K, N. E., ynii
should emieavor to u'ct well to the eastward heforr you atleni|it to run in.
The leading mark lor clearing the Old l''ort Keel, whiih extends from the am liorajt
in the hay to the m)rtliward of the tnirthernmost point, is tln^ Itoue Koad end on, Iimm
ing snnth, or south a little wrst(!rly. Proceed with this tnark until Montcgo Cluui h
comes open of Old Kort Point; then haul in for the S. K. part of the town, uinl wlin,
Sandy I'oint is shut in with Old Kort Point, yon may anchor in from 17 to 10 fntlidiii-
fme sand and mud. 'I'he reef oil' and to the northwanl of Old i-'ort I'oint, lies [icmit
one mile and a ((uarler from the shore ; advance, therefore, no nearer to tlie point north
ward of Old Kort J'oint, than two miles.
About ."i miles to the wesfwanl of iMontesio IJay, is a small creek, a hay without, wliicli
is called (ireat Koads. In this bay UH'rchant vessels lay to load; there being a sliuii!
extending nearly tin; whole of the way across, which affords good shelter fur ships Ivlni;
here during the north winds.
\ll ships lying either in Montego May or at (Jreat Roads, pay harbor dues, at the i;iii
Wf one shilling ))er ton, register I'lniiaue; ami in the event of any ship's iroing iiitu iln
Inner Harbor, at Montego Hay, she is charged one half-)tenny per t(m for every day tlu;
she mny lie in this harbor, in addition to the fee that is paid for amhoriniz in the bay.
If bound from Montego Hay to the eastward, I wonlil recommend leaving the buy in
the eveniiiii, so soon as the land wind cmnes oil", which will generally run you clear m
tiu" bay anri in a good offing for the s>'a bree/e. It is generally recommended to luatii
windward close to the land, in order to have the advantage of the eastern curnnis; Inn
lam of opinion that the only advantage you have by keeping inshore, is, that you nii'ti
the land wind, whicii sometimes will carry you well to tlie eastwiird during tlie iiiclii,
for the current sets to the westward as often as to the eastward. If your destination In'
KaluMinth I l;irb(ir, endeavor, if by night, to keep the shore close aboard, anil the laiiil
w ind will lead you to the eastward.
PEAK OK TARt^riN't). — In working hence to windward, in clear weather, wiu'i
Cuba is visible, a remarkable hill will be Hisccrnrd. This is the i'ico de 'j'aripiirio, th'
highest land on this side of (.'uba, whicli bears from Montego Point N. K. ^ N., (listiiii!
thirty-five leagues ; from St. Anne's Hay, N. by K. twenty-eight and a half leagues; ami
from the east end of .laniaica, N. N. W. f(uty leagues, by whicli you may ju(lg( limi
far you are to windward on any otlier bearings. 'J'he I'cuk of Tanpiino, (See. have al-
ready been described.
FALMOI TH HARIU)R, OR iMARTHA HRAK.— This harbor, which IIm s:\
leagues to the eastward of Montego Hay, is a bar-harbor. Its chamu-l, or entraiKe. h
very narrow, not more than 16 or 17 feet in depth, and too intricate to be atteiii|)te(l wiili-
out n pilot. The town of Falmouth is situate on the w estern side of the harbor, through-
out the. greatest part of whicii, there is a regular de|)th of from ii to 10 fathoms.
MARABONA BAY.-— At about three leagues to the eastward of Ktilmnufh, is Mara-
bona Bay, which is very remarkable. It lias a low pleasant plantation close to it; ami
on tlie hill over it, is a large house or castle, formerly the rtsidence of Brian Eilward^.
Esq. historian of the West ladies. Williin a league to the eastward of this, is the
«mall harbor of Kio Bueuo.
I
RIO P
to the «':e
uiid inm
than i.ien
cli(trai;c I
may lie «
three null
its clianii)
ST. A.'
It IS iiiirrii
ihcpeiiinL'
,1 cahle's 1
nearly S.
stream of
by the grc
water is cl
Mr. To
bm. Till
it, close tl
iiill on till
western s\i
perior to ,i
the town.
OCMO
open to till
the easieri
w. y \v. I
water is ve
sels only, \\
OKA ('
posed like t
easiwaril. Ii
niost high I
point, 'i'o
most III 11 If I
Captain ,
formed by r
the other _si
.lamaiea. ^
break the sc
plate. At I
land by a na
the reef, wh
to be iittemj
(iAIJXA
but the hind
al)le round li
bur, on a nei
PORT y.
Its anchorai
named ('aba
cables' lengi
island N. E.
length. Sir
main The
by he,, iiig c
here, a> rhe
From Pni
continues ,-.
ANOTT^
age open to
is called the
vern, a build
master, haul
and narrow.
is about a qu
/^
nM'M" S AMMIMCAX COAST IMI.OT.
397
iind .tantlary. Ikm
ill (if two niilcK, in
lly H«'fn IVoiti ih^
ppniiit'li tli<> reel',
N'oii iiiiw IkiuI
well ^liiit ill S;iM
Willi SiiiKJy I'liirit
ill ill)' lltll'llitt Hill
r 1)1° ^riiiinilin^ up
llic hill in a lim
my. Tlio nioiiihl
d with ;i tiiir wind.
-iMoiilryo Un\ if
f of Hlriiiijj iiorih
I end ill tlir hiliri
Nj. K. to llif K. N
or ffivf, in tlif N
lie only siil'e \i\mv
. to v.. N. K., Mill
I ill.
oni iIh" aril lioni^t
load cud on, hen
M()iitc|;o Cliunh
lie town, and wlim
1 17 to 10 r:itli(iiii.
l I'liint, lies lUMiii
to tlie point north
liay without, wiiuli
irn- lifin^ a sli(i;i!
•Iter lor ships lyint
ir dues, at the r;iie
ip'.s iroiim into tln'
for every day ilia;
)rinu in the hay.
aviiif; the li;iy in
run yon clear oi
iK-nded to heat in
■Ml currents; liui
is, that you nifti
(liiriiisi; the iiiclii.
iir destinatii)ii ln^
lard, and the hiiiil
■ar weather, wlirn
de 'J'ar(|uiiio, tli'
i. K. 'l N., (listiin;
halt'leaj;ues; ami
u may judaic liim
uino, ice. have al-
or, whicli lies six
el, or entraiK e. li
be attempted with-
ic harbor, through-
10 fathoms.
Hlmouth, is Mara-
11 close to it; and
if Brian Edwarcl>.
rd of this, is the
RIO lUIENO AND DRV lIAKIJt )l!.—Uio Mneno. which lies nearly fotirlfne'""
to the pastward of Kaliiioulh, is a li.iy exposed to all winds lieiw< en N. :iiid W. \. \V.
uiid liaM Imt indilleient anelioraL'e, the li:iiik lieiiii; steep. Ii im selilnni viNiled li\ other
tliMli r.irrchaiit vesseln, which uo there to |o:id. I'roiii the eiitiatice lo the pliu e of' air-
cliorage the distance is aiunii twii miles. The barlior is fonned by two rerfi>. A ship
Ilia
V lie with the point N. N. W. \ W. in •), H, or 7 fathoms. Dry il;irlior, which I
i-%
three miles more to the eastward, is, hnwever, a 'j;ood harbor lor Miiail vcshcIs, althoiii;h
Hi* I
liannel be narrow :mtl his a depth of only \h leei.
ST. A.NNK'-S I^A v.— The eiiiraiice oj' this bay lies in bit. H^ ,!r. lonjj;. 77" l."}'.
It is narrow, and lies between two reels, which have on their ridges :i ami .'!■ fathoms,
d);epeiiini; abruptly in the channel to 111 and 1 1 fathoms. The t iitraiii e is less than liaM
a calile'M leiiuth in breadth, and lies with i he barracks on the rise of the hill, luiuiii;^
nearly H. l K., but it is not to be attempted without a pilot. Willi a iiortherl\ wind, a
streaiii of considerable stremj;tli sets outwards throiiu|i ihr channel: this is occiisioned
by the ureal (|iiaiiiity of water thrown over the reefs by the swell. In passinij in, as iho
w'aler is clear, vessels jjenerally pass close to the western reef, on the .■^tarlioard -irle.
iMr. Town says, St. Anne's May lies about twelve miks lo the eastward id' Dry Har-
bor. 'I'liis hay may be known by its haviiii; a very re;;ular row ol i ocoa-niit trees iirotind
it, (dose to the water's edi;e, and ihi- town of St. Anne, which stands on the siijr of a
hill on the S. K. side of the bay. The houses stand close to the water's ed<;e on the
western side, and the plantalions are, in aptiearancc, in a slate of cultivation much su-
jierior to any westward of tins place. The harbor of ."^t. Anne is small, and is (lose to
till' town, toil may amdior here in from (» to ') latlmms, rood mdiind.
()('IM) KIOS, wliich lies seven miles to the eastward of St. Anne's, is an anclioraj^i;
open to the north and .N. W, winds. To enter, you sail by a reel which spits olf from
the eastern side of the bay, haiilinj; tip and brinyint; the westermiiosi part of it N, N.
\V. .', \V. to N. W. in 7 falhoms. There is another re:'f to the soiilliward, but as the
water is very clear it will be seen. This is a small harbor, fre(|uented by iiifrchant ves-
sels only, wliich ^o there to load.
OKA ('AUKCA, 10 miles to the eastward of ( )clio Uios, is another anchora'je, ex-
posed like the former, to N. and .N. W, winds. To sail in here when advanciii;i from the
eastward, lirst make (iaiina Point ; in order to wliich, when olf at sea, briiii; the wcsiein-
niost hiijh land of the Mine iMoiintains .*>. .S. K., which, thus kept on, will lead to the
jioinl. 'J'o anchor, ^'ive the small reef on the east side a berth, and when the western-
most bhilf |)oiiit bears west, or W. by N., iim hor in .').',. b, or 7 fathoms.
C'a|)tain Livinusloii .says, it is not uenerally known that in Allan's Hole, which is
formed by reefs levid with the water on the one side, and the eastern shore of the bay on
the other _side, vessels drawint; from 10 to IvJ feet, may lie as secure as in any haibor in
.lainaica. When once in-^ide the reel's I In- botlom is (|iiiie clear, and the reefs compl-lely
break the sea oil". Vessids drawimr not more than IJ feet of water may warp into this
|)late. At the north end of iNe reef is an islet, with buslies on it, divided from the main
land by a narrow and shallow (dianntd. Allan's Hole has two entrances ; one thrt)ti;.'li
tile reef, which is extremely narrow, and one by ihc point of the reel . but neither oii;',ht
to he attem|)tcd without a jiilot.
CiAIjIN'A I'Ol.NT lies tour mi'es to the eastward of ( )ra Cabeca. This pidiit is low,
but the land to the southward of it is hi::li ; and in makiii!.' it from the westward, are mark-
able round hill that stands within the point, will, on its first ajipearain e, form the point;
but. on a nearer approaih, the land slo|)es oil' to the niulhward to a low point.
POUT MAKIA.— The e-itrance of this harbor lies in hit. IH'^ '2~\ an<l loiiii. 76- ',3'.
Its aiichorai>eis open to N. \. K., N., and iN. W. winds. In coming in, the hish island,
named Cabarita Island, iiiiist be seen, and its northern point should have a berth of two
cables' length. Vou may haul into the bay, and anchor with the i\. W. point of the
island N. E. or N. E. by N. at the distance of about a cable or a cable and a half's
length. .Small vessels ilrawine; 10 feet of water, may anchor between the island and the
main The bottom is foul in the outer part of the bay, and many ships have injured it
by he. ing over their ballast. There is not room for inore than U) or 12 veiHsels to lie
here, a- ihe foul ground extends nearly over the wlude harbor.
From I'ort Maria the coast trends' K- S. E. six miles, to Blowing Point; thence it
continues >. S. E. | E. about five miles, to Anotta Hay.
ANOTTA BAY,'which lies about 1 1 miles to the S! E. of Port Maria, has its anchor-
age open to N. and N. W". winds. To sail in, giv^i the reef on the eastern side, which
is called the Schoolmaster, a suHicient berth ; then steer d
vern, a
master,
building easily known, S. by W. or S. When advanced within tl
haul a little to the eastward, and have the anchor clear, tlie bank bein
wn until vou bring I ' ta-
-ol-
E'ep
and narrow. The first sounding will he 10 or 9 fathoms. Let go in 7 fathoms, which
is about a quarter of a mile from shore, with good holding ground. Be i^uiious of au
398
BI.UNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
rliohn;; on flie wostorn P(\(rp (if tlie hank, as it will not hold, and yon may be in danji r
ot'^j'tiitnj on slioi'c to the wc-itward.*
OI'Anottii I5ay, Cajitain I iivini:«ir(>n says, "This i>i thr uildcst road \ ever .saw. N'u
vessel oii<;ht t(» enter il, wiilioiit lieiiiu: uiienninnudy uell lunnd in croiind-tackh'. Tlicv
outzlit, hy all nn-ans. to have chain eahles. 'I'he lollowint; is tVoni memory only : — Tlii'
reel' oil' (iil)raltar I'oint. the Sclionhuasier, is niiirii more danfjcrons tlia?i is ','t'Hfial!\
Hiipposed. The late .Mr. .\iiinis .M' Dioialil, the harhor- master, iidormed me that ii r\.
tends I'lilly 1^ miles out; and some |ilaces have only I'rom (> to 'J feet of water, wlijli
there are gaps or ^atwavs thriinirh tliem, with as many fathoms."
Port ANT<)i\l(),'whic-h lies about H miles froni the N. K. end of .lamaica, «;,>■
formerly a kiiiii's i)ort, where there are still to he seen the remains of a eareenin<; wli;iri
iVc. It is foriiied hy nature into two hariiors, divided liy a peninsula, oi; whieh stiiiujs
the town of Tiichlieid. to the .N. and .\. \V. of wliieh lies the island called Navy Isluml.
extendinu; K. and W., and ahont half a mile m leni^lli.
To sail into the eastern harlior, fnst hrinu; the eastern part of the Hhie iMonntain- 1,,
hear about S. S. W., and steer in that direction until you approach near Folly J'nnn.
the east ])oint of tile eastern liarlior. Next lirin'^ the churcji (which is a lar<:e s(pi,.|.'
bnildini; on the side of the hill in lh(> S. W . )iart of the liay) on witli the second wlm
from the westward, beirinis; S. hy W. \ W., and you will thus jiass s.ifely into the lur
lior. JJut observe that on approachinis; the tort, (which stands on the wesurn siric, iipdn
the |joint of Titchfield Peninsula.) to open the church to the eastward of the wliini.
AV'heri the lort bciirs N. \V. \»n may aiiihor in '-'. 't, 10, or 11, fathoms, j^o<id holiiin:
j^ronnd. The liott-im is, indeed, so stiff t'lat it is rather dilVicnlt lo <iet np tin- unclidh
'i'lie preccdiui; direclion.s must be particularly a tended to, in order to avoid a rcii,
which stretelies from the eastern end of Navy Island, as well as from the point ot'tlieiic
ninsula. The eastern side ni' the harbor is shoal, and there is a reef nearly in the iiiiil
die, havini; over it only ,-' or If) leet of water.
'Jo sail into fhr irrsfrrn harliDi-, after liaviiu; brought the church well open to the i;n!
ward of the lort. proc(,'ed, niidcr easy sail, into the entrance of the channel liefween .\;n\
Island and Titchfield, hriniiini; a lonjj; buildin;:, which is a storehouse, standiiii; on a In;
to the westward, oiumi of the soutli-wcstern point of .\avy Island. This mark is to In
kept on until the church appears o|)en to the westward of the Peninsula; then liiiul
round to the S. W. and anchor in from 7 to -I fathoms, where there is L'ood tiroinid.
.\ channel, called the Iluj; Chamnd, leads directly from sea into the western liarliur.
from i\\v west end of a Ioiik reef that extends from Navy Island; but it is crooked am!
narrow, has only l,T or II feet of water on the western part of it, and is therefore im-;
only by small vessels.
The tides liere are not regular, bein^ inlluciiced by the winds. The variation in \','\
was 7" 16' K., and it is still licarly the same.
<.)f Port Antonio Mr. Townsay.s, the western harbor is the best, the eastern beinj: oppii
to the north winds. When enteriiu: the port, with the sea-breeze, keep as neailv i
inid-channel between .\avy Island and the mam as you can. Run in with the le:ii!ii,.
mark on, and anchor in about d < r 7 fathoms. If in a siuall ship, anclior in 4 or .j fathoms
as the srround without the latter dejith is foul.
PORT ?ilORAN'l\ — Tiiis is a good harbm-, but the reefs extenil to the distaticco!
half a mile from shore, on e ich side of the entrance, and the breadth of the channel !»•
tween is only a cable's length and a half. .\s the directi(m of the entrance is N. 7, W..
It cm be attempted only with the sea-bree/e. or between the hours of 10 and 'J in the dm
* A brijj of war waa lost op f!;e outer reef, a few years nijo. I have often heard her nnnir, dur-
uip my residence nf ilie bay, but ■' ling escaped my memory. She wns .so fnr out llint no one lial
any sii='iicioti that slie \va.« in the least danirer ; nid it was only in cfinse(|Mence of her lo<!s th;
they disco, cied the reefs lav sn far out. Mr. .MMJoaiild, linrbor.ninfter and senior |iiloi at ilic lai.
surveyed the reels; but he iiiforniod ii'c lii.s survey was forwarded to i'ort Royal, to he pnnkn;
at the trial of the olficers of the brig which was lost. What I have stated above was from Ins in-
formation.
The cnrth(|U!d<o felt in .lainnica, in 1811, was particularly severe at Anotta Cay. Part of the
bottom of the bay, nboiil one (luarter of a mile from the shore, .sunk, and wi.ere ve.s.sels ii.'-i'd to 1
chor, thcM'ii^ now no bottom to he foimil ; or at least I have been assured none has been In.
thouirh i he.'rd somebody at the buy say that il has been, .at 17(1 fathoms. When this spot siiiiu -.
vessel V as ridiri;.;, with a keu^'e out in that direction to steady her. In nil iiisiant, as an cvi.' «
ncss assured nie, she seemed aw if fjoing down stern foremost, and then suddenly risinir afjniii,
swupf; round Mt once. Thi.s, it was soon discovered, was occasioned by her kedge heintr swal-
lowed by the bottom of the bay when it sunk ; and the sudden 'ise of the vessel again wa.-s viwau
by the hawser, bent to the kedije, givinc way, or the timber towlilch it was attached yieliliiiu.
Anotta liay is an e.ttremely unhealthy place ; so is Port Maria ; but Ora Cubeca is a loleiubh
healthy situation.
To sail in.
lemarkahle
uiiist red el
Take care
Voii will ill
i> .iiudior.i.
on the cash
The C.\
:;.') W. am
the (iraiid 1
brack.
Tliethai
lini that i^ei
iii;;ston. ho
W. point t(i
more than
SI ' 2')'.*
The (J K.I
S. K. end
ern end is s
extends aloii
reet's, to w hi
iVoin the S.
small villai,'e
erinnost hot
ynii may see
be proper to
Caotain I)
island is low.
who never sa
which runs
you are near
tiinall craft to
deepest wate
; vessels of tin
foul, and not
'• The west
the only phic
aiirhora;;c ; f
liy the rocks ;
ciiased. Out
pun base it ; r
(we rode by u
shelf: we ho
chased our o
of the inhahil
" N'oiir fns
shore : after \\
gi"! into ri fath
•dhsorv.ntioii
(•rand Cayman
"fioinritudco
^1° .3' .I.S". L
by chronometer
"After these.
knoi.9, (I fathom
l>f liMU/illidc; \vl
^ Captain ."VIoii
Crnnd Cavmaii
tilde 190 15', ,vi
hiiiar and cliron
tiiercfore, be coi
"At the time
the barometer n
703, fff,f,, „.|,j,.),
Iciitly adjusted."
iiay be in danptr
I ever ;-:<iw. No
iid-tiicklf. Tlipy
Kiry only : — 'I'lii'
tliiMi is m'ncmllj
id Illf tlliit ii cx-
t of wiiter, while
of Jiun;iicii, \\;i<
can'etiinj; whiirl,
or; tvhicli si-.iinU
lied Navy LsLiinl.
Inc Mountniii- in
iciir Folly I'onr.
I is a lar^c s!|ii,'i •
tilt* ;-i;conil whii
friy into tho hiir
vrsicrTi sific, iijinn
ani of llir uImh.
iiiis, 'jjooii ho'iiliii'.
ft u\) till- aiu'luii<.
er to avoid a nil
lie point of tliepc
nearly m the iiiid
1 ont-n to tlif i;i»!-
nnid between N;nv
, staiKliiiU on a Im
'Ills mark is lo l»
insula ; then liiiiil
s i^ood iiround.
[lie western hrtrlKir.
It it is er(>(d\ed aiiii
1 is therefort? u>eii
le variation in 1":
eastern liein^ o]"'!.
Uee|> as nearlv r
with the |e:\i!ii-.
r ill 4 or .J fatliinii-.
to the distance (11
if the ehaiinel I"-
trance is N. \ W..
10 and'-' in thedii)
henrd her name, dut-
out that nil one \m
;>nee of her loss ihr.
>nior pilot at liii'tiai,
oval, to he pRiiiiii":
oie was from iiis m-
la Bay. Part of lii'
rf vessels nsi'il to ii!-
i.iiic has been I'oui.c,
r'heii dus spot sunk a
isiaiit, as an eye «■.
.dileidy risiiiL' af/niri,
H- kedge beins; sua
tsel again \\'as ciiutti
jiaelied yiehliiiii-
:abfca is u loleiubly
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
To sail in, a ship tniist lie N. or N. by K. until tiie leadiim mark is on.
reina
iiiiisl re(
399
This mark is a
rkable house, which stands iii>on a hill, in a line with the east end <d liie eastern-
I cliff btvarint; N. i \V . With this mark you may sail into the hay with safety.
Take rare not to approach too n«
Voii will t
:ar the reefs, but brinijthe marks exai tlv as described.
Iius have '), r". 7',, 7, (>', '). •"), and a ipiarter less ."> to I fithoms of water. 'I'liero
id 7 i'athonis, with the leadinti mark on. and I'ero J')atter>
fhicl
1 IH
is anchorane in (>.} and 7
on the eastern side, bearing H. S. K.
The CA VM A NS are three islands lying between the meridians of 7<)^ 30', and 81'"
;;,V W. and parallels of Vf 10', and I'j ' ih' N. The larger and wesiernniost is named
the (iraiid (.'ayiiian, the second, the Little Cayman, and the easternmost the ('ayman-
hrack.
The (hand Cayman was regularly surveyed by Mr. (Jeorge (iaiihl. in the year 177M;
1)111 iliat gentleman ascertained neitlier its true latitude nor its longitude. Captain iiiv-
iii<rsion. however, by observations taken ")tli August, InlT. proves the key near the S.
\V. point to he in I'C 14' N. anil the longitude of the east end has iicen determined by
more than one observer ; it is 81^ .'/ W. hence we gain that of the .s. W. key, by survey,
The (;K,\ND CAYMAN is about eight leagues long, and two and a half broad. The
S. K. end lies in latitude l')' lb' N. and the N. K. poinl in laiitiide 1') -J-J'. The east-
ern end is siurounded by a reef, extending a mde and a half from shore, wjiieh thence
• xfeiids along tin; north and south coasts. Ulf the 1^. W. |)oint there is, also, a key and
reefs, to which a good berth must be given. The N. W. or west point is three leagues
from the S. \V. point, and between is the spol called the Hogstics, where there is a
small vilhiu'c. olf which you may anchor ir iVom I'J to 7 f.ithoms, !)v bringing th" soiilli-
cniiiiosl house lo bear E. Iiy .*s. at half a iiii!e I'rom shore. T'lie bottom is rocky, Init
voii may see the ground, where you let go, as the water is very clear: it will, however,
be proper lo buoy up the cables, ami steady the ship with a small anchor.
Cautain J)al/el, in some observations on passing the (Iraud Cayman, has said, "The
i.sl;iiid is low, covered with cocoa-nut and oth'^r trce-^, and of greater extent than people
who never saw it generally inngine. The north side forms a bay, across the mouth of
which runs a reef of sunken rocks, which may be readily seen in the day time, before
VDU are near enough to run any l.inil of risk. It is totally iiujiossible for any thing hut
taiiall craft to anchor on this side, for there are no soundings close io the reef, and the
deepest water over it is U feet, although there are '.' or :' fathoms witiiin it. The small
vessels of tli(^ island go in here, as they d(», likewise, on tin: soiilli side, uliich is also
foul, and not to be approached by strangers.
"The west end of (trand Cayman, which is best inhaliiteil and mostly resorted to, is
the only jilace where large vessels can come to ; though even here, it is but indilierent
aiicluiragc ; for, wiihoni the ntiiiDSt care you are in danger of geflitig your cables cut
hv the rocks; or may, jierhaps, let go your anchor in a place >\ here it cannot be pur-
chased. Our anchor got under the shelf of a rock, and we had two days' hard work to
imn base it ; nor could we liave weighed it at all. if we had not biu'rowed a small anchor,
(w!' rode by our only anchor) and tiackeil with a swivel. This luckily hooked another
shelf: we liovi! upon the cable that was last to il, and then with much dilficiiltv pur-
chased our own anchor lioni under tiie rock. We came lo in 11 fathoms, but most
of the inhabitants say liiat H fathoms is the anchorage.
" Vour firs' soundings going in ar(> about 17 fathom", tliree-((uarters of a mil? nflT
shore ; after which you shallow your water 'i or o fathoms, every ship/s length, till you
get into 8 fathoms, wlieie you may come to in one of the while holes. These holes aro
•Observations by Captain .Tames Wallace Mmteaili: — "In latitude 19° 13' the N. E. point of
(irand Cayman, bearing N. tiO^ W., S. W. point, S. H r \V. niid Kast-rn Reef, norlh, true.
" fjoiiL'inulcof ship, in time, 81'^ .V l.V' : by h.'iars. Hi- '2' 1" : mean longitude of the Hast Reef,
81° ,3' ,'')3". LoM'ritiidp of the east end o.' th(> Cayman, by Captain Wilson, of (ireeiiock, 81° 5' ;
by ehrononipter, 81" 3' ; mean loiigituiie, iiy Captain Wilson, as in Nautical Almanac, 81° 4'.
"Alter theso observations v\'ere made, t'leshij) ran on n W. course for l.'j minutes, at thr rate of four
knots, () fathoms; which gives nearly one and a cpiartcriiiile departure; eijual to 1- 20' difrerenco
of longitude ; which, added, iilaees the east end of the island in 8P .')' 13" W."
Captain Moimath repeated his observations in laiiliide I'J' 1,V. when the en^ternmosf point of
lirniiii Cayman bore north; and hero his hmars and chronometer exactly agreed. Again, in lati.
tiule 1!)J 15', with ihe cast end of the island Im arinir W. by N. five miles, the results of four seta,
lunar and chioiioinetric. gave a dilfereiicc of only 2' d'-'". The longitude of the Caymans may,
tiierefore, be considered as finally seUled.
" At the time the positions of these points were ascertained, the atmosiihere in general was clear ;
the Imrometer and thertnometer stood, on an average, from 120.1.') to 3') inches, and from (JO^ to
70^, from which ina.xiinum the corrections for refraction were made, the instruments being excel-
Iciitly adjusted."
400
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
pjitclies of sand ainonc; the rocks, wliidi you can easily sec when lookina; ovor flie side.
liCt a caiclul pcrsoii look out I'orward, to pick a lars;c liole, and be sure you let go vour
ariclior well towards the weather side oC it, that, when you veer away cahlc, it tuny not
«;ouie upon the rocks, if it sliould come to blow, anil you are in dan!i;er of draa;j;ing
your anchor lowar<ts any ol' th<' shelves, you must heave it up aj^ain. You can plainly
see your anchor as ottcn as you please, and you can easily distinguish the rocky bottom
•Voni the white holes, by its blackness. Observing the above directions, you cannot '^et
amiss : perhaps you will do best not to take a pilot, as they are not over careful.
"The west i-iid I'ornis a kind of double bay ; the southerniuosi is the road, (iive thp
middle point a good berth, as some rwcks lie off it : you"need not heave the lead luitil
you sec the l)ottoiu, for yon will get no ground till then."
Thedrand (Jayinan is inhabited by many i)ersons, descended from the old buccanniers.
exclusive of ncgnx's. 'Vhc climate and soil are singularly salubrious ; the people nre
vigorous and cominoidy live to a great age. They raise various [)roduce for their own
use, and have si, me to spare. As navigators, their chief employment is to fish for
turtle, and to pilot vessels to the adjaceul parts.
Kefreshuicnts may be obtained here; as fowls, turtle, yams, plantains, cocoa-nuts, At.
but no beef nor mution. Water is procured by tilling a bucket aboiu twenty yards from
the beach, the well hearinsr N. N. K. or N. by K. from tiie anchoring place.
From the S. \V. end of the (Jrand (!ayman to Cape (-'orrientes, the true bearing and
distance are N. 47"' W. 74 leagues; and to (.'ape Antonio, N. .01^ W. H4 leagues.
The CAYMAN J? HACK is very level land, covered with small trees, and at a shnrt
distance presents a snioolh, unbroken surface, very like Nava/a, except towards the S,
W. point, where lln-re is a siuall bunch of trees a little higher than the rest, appnrentlv
joMwood trees, as they are small leafed. Tlie S. K. point appears very blulf, and il:i>
south side also very bold : we run down it at less than a mile distant, and saw no dnn-
ger of any kirul excejit the breakers on the shore. From off the S. W. point, which is
low and sandy, a reel" runs off an eigiuh of a luile, hut you can easily sec the breakers,
and even the colored wati'r, a mile and a half distant. We were not far enough to tlif
eastward to ascertain whether any reef extemled from the east end or not, but from tin
bold appearance of the S. K. point, 1 should think that if there are any reefs they do
not extend to the southward of the east point. The east end of the (dayman Hrark jv
the highest, anrl with a sli2:ht but even declination towards the west end. The (Javinaii
Urack is consideraI)ly higher than lite Little Cayman, and before leaving the Cav-
nian l>rack, you will rise the Little Cayman, of which ymi wili not at first discern srnne
any thiiiir, exce|)t three large cocoa-nut trees on the east end, and which, at a distuncp,
appear like two vessels at anchor. These cocoa-nut trees are the (miy ones I saw m;
this island. These islands are separated by a deep channel, and are resorted io by rlw
turtlers.
THE IfiiLAlVD OF PORTO RI€0.
This island is thirty leagues in length : and ihrouEiluiiit this extent from east to wp«i
is a cliain id" mountains, with branches diverging to the north and south, and extetiHiii;
to the coasts. The whole are covered with wood, and in the intervals are fertile vallevs
anil plains, watered by more than fif"fy rivulets, in the sands of which gold-dust has bpfii
fotind. The highest summits of the mountains are called the Peaks of Layooiiiu.
They are often covered with snow, and may be seen from a great distance.
The capitt.l, St. .luan, stands on the western part of' an island on the north sill^
which forms a good harbor, defended by a citadel, called the Morro Castle, and nthfr
works. The town is po])ulous and well built ; the see of a bishop, and the residence i)l
the goyernor.
The n(ulhorn coast, whicli extends like the southern coast, nearly east and west, i*
but imperfectly known. It is rugged and uneven, having many rocks and islets, (in
which the sea breaks heavily. P'ifty miles north from Porto Rico, Captain Baxter, in
brig Robert, struck on a rock, and re-nained seyeral hours. The town of St. Juan,
which stands at the ilistancc of') leagues from Cape St. .luan, is the N. E. point ofl'or-
to Rico.
There are no large bays either on the nortliern or southern coast, and a vessel may
generally run along the former without any risk, at the distance of three miles, and alon"
the south coast at five ; only observing in the latter case, to give sufficient berth to the
Rmall isle i
points of P
4 The Har
I the utmost
i t!ie fnttii is
(iiiat IslaiK
castle calle(
is generally
The west
the eiilraiici
a depth of .'
extcmis to t
eastward of
fonnnonly f
If yon m;i
all the up[)e
of the .Morrr
fre(|ueiilly ii
and the gre:
Off the cf
approached
i5efore these
sages among
not intunatfl
In this ch;
proacliing eii
with tlie folic
Culelirila, N
tills channel
hecalnied. to
\ii:(ii;K,
S. W. end is
and sandy po
age. [n wor
Dicniiis shoal
regular, and 1
proached neai
are a few set
west side : th
within three f
soiuidnigs irr<
CARLJT,
and, is mCiC t
re(|iiire a larg
Island, from '1
three miles.
which is two i
bor, which an
dear and secu
Plenty of woi
for the gre a I i
'J'he coiuse
by N., or rath
foul, and with
the N. E. poii
danger.
Tfyou are I
point of that is
W. ^ W., or A
may run down
steer west, and
BLUM' S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
401
; ovor the side.
rou lot go your
ihlc, it may not
jer of (liii^jjinj;
foil ran pliiinly
le rocky bottom
Tou (•annot get
careful,
road, (live the
^e tliP lead until
jld bnccatiniers,
; the people ;irc
ee for their own
nt is to fish lor
cocoa-nuts, cVr.
ifeiuy yards tVom
dace.
rue bearing and
^4 leagues.
■s, an<l at a shnrt
t towards the S,
rest, apparently
y blutV, and th"
uid saw no dan-
'. point, whirli i^
see the breaker'!.
ar enough to ilif
lot, but from tlii
ny reefs they dn
L'ayinan Mrack i^
J. The Cayinnii
lieavins the Cay-
5l discern srairp
at a distance,
Iv ones I saw or:
■sorted to by ;hc
Voiu east to wcq
1, and extendiii;;
ire fertile vnlleys
I -dust hasbpcii
iS of Layooniu.
nee.
the north siik,
'astle, and othfr
the residence ot
east arid west, is
ls and islets, on
uptain Baxter, in
iwn of St. Juan,
K. point of I'or-
nd a vessel may
miles, and alnn"
■ient berth to the
umall isle called Dead Chest, which lies about lialf way between the S. E. and S. W.
points of I'orto Kieo.
The Harbor of St. .luan* is very capacious, and thr larsiest ships may lie there with
the utmost safety, in 5, <). an I 7 f.i'bonis. Tiie entrance is alorn; tlit^ islanti on which
the town is erected, and lictwcen the .Morro I'oini and three islets, culled the C'abras or
(ioat Islands. South of the latter is a small islet, occu|''""d by a little sijuarc fort or
castle called the ("anuelo, which d.-lends the western side (d'the harbor. The channel
is irenerally buoyed.
Tlif western ainT soulliern sides of the harbor ;u<' flat and shoal. The western side of
the entrance is rocky, but in rlic channel the ground is (generally of gravel mid sand, with
a depth of 5 b, 7, and S fathoms. From tiic; south side ol the town, a low point of land
pxteiiiis to the southward. ;ind is surronnded liy u shoal. Ships generally ride to the
eastward of this (lat, and out ol'die wash of thu sea, occasioned by the trade-wind, which
coininonlv sets directly into the htirbor.
If you mtike the harbor with the wind southerly, you iiittst run into the channel with
all tlie upper sails well set, in order to prcsetve your way, when you come under the lee
of the Morro, and liave a boat out for towing, or to carry out a warp, both of which are
fre(|uciitlv necessary. It is high water Jii the liarijor at hIi. '-•Ini. on the full and change,
and the greatest rise is about oim; foot and a hall'.
O/f the eastern coast o( I'orto liico, ;ire numerous keys and rocks which cannot be
approached by large vessels, and therefcnc serve as a rendezvous for smuggK-rs, &:c.
Before these are the isles (.'ulebra and Vieciue. or Snake and Crab Islands. The pas-
sages among these isles and rocks are generally deep ; but no one may venture in who ia
not intimately actjuainted with the place.
Passage between Si. Tlionias's Island and Culchra and Crnh Islands.
In this chaimel there arc soundings, with 20 fathoms on the west side of it, and, ap-
proaciiing eitlier the island of Culebra or Vietjue. if is shoaler. We had 10 fathoms,
with the following bearings: — Kast end of Crab Island, .S. by \V. \ W. ; east end of
Cidebrita. N. by \V. -^ W. ; and Sail fjock, K. by .\'. [ N. The currents set through
this chaimel strong to the westward, which would render it necessaiy, in case of being
becalmed, to anchor befoie voii are drifted on the western shore.
VlKCiUK, OK CKAU I>T>A.\ I).— ]l is of moderate height, and well wooded. The
S. W. end is hilly, and to the westwaiil it is low and uneven. On the west end is a low
and sandy point, and with it l)earing >i. bv E., aliout one milr- and a hidf, is the anchor-
age. In working in do not bring this point lo the southward of east, as there ;ue nu-
nieroiis shoals between it and the east side of l*or(o Ki((). We found the soundings
regular, and 1 .', mile from shore you will have (> fathoms. Thesluue should not l)e ap-
proached nearer, as the soundiiuis liiere are iriegular and the groiinil rocky. There
are a few settlers, principally on tlu" north end. There are two sandy bays on the
west side : the jioithernmnst is bold and the boitcm of saiiri. Ymi may approach it to
within three fourths of a mile, with 4 fathoms. The sduihcrti one has a rocky bottom,
soimilings irregular.
CARLJT, OR SERPENT'S ISLAND, s<unetitiies called the Great Passage Isl-
and, is mcic than six niiies in length. It has niim'Tous icefs and k(\vs about it, which
reipiire a large berth wheti passing. Olf its eastern side is Culel)rita or ijittle Ptissagc
Island, from »he south end of whi( h a dangerous reef extends to the S. S. W.and S. W.
three miles. To the west oi the southern p-ut of this reef is the liarbor of Culebra,
which is two miles iti extiMit from tiie eiitraiHc. Tiicre art; two ( haiuiels into this har-
i)or, which are divided by a bed of rocks, and bordered witli reels, but the interior is
clear and secure, tircat caution is rc()uircii when ciUcring ; but a jiilot lives in the port.
I'lenty of wood, water and (ish, may be obtained. The neighboring keys are famous
for the great number of triipical biids which biced here.
The course through tlie X'irgin's Passaiic, on the east of Vieque ;uid Calrit, is N. W.
by N., or rather N. N. W'., in case of a cidm atid Ice current; the western side being
foul, and without wind, it is dangerous. Continue on this course until Cape St. ,luan,
the N. E. point of Porto Rico, bears W. by S. or W. S. W., and you will be clear of all
danger.
If you are bound down the south side of Porto l\i<'o, oiiserve you will see the S. E.
point of that island when lyini: at anchoraPCrab Island ; it bens from ihente, S. W. by
W. i W., or W. S. W.. about 4J, leagues, and is called Pascpia, or S. E. Cajie. You
may run down till you come abreast of that cape, within three or four miles of it, and then
steer west, and by the time you have run three leagues down past the cape, and it bears
* See plan published by E. & G. W. Blunt, 1833,
61
402
BLUM' S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
N. E., you will scp a largo hroarli or slioal, two or tlirre iniJcs in I'^iigtli, wliicli ?ii c (t
or four miles troiii the coast. i5y kcfpiny a inilc or two without tlic or :icii, in iiuniin
flown, you will (IcHcry a small Iniiltrmi: i)y the waii ;■ side, wljicli is a jjiiinl-honsc ; • ;
by runninn down as din'ctcd iituii the ;:iiar(l-hoii';'- !)<• is N , ir a lii'ii' to tin- wfatln't; , ,.,
of that bf-arint;, you may haul iu N. or N. by K. for it, and niu-hor in 4 faihonu., wirj.
the house bearina N. or iN. by K. one mile distaiii. -'nd t'v*-. w.--,t "nd of the breach S. „.
K. This |)lacf is called •(luayanio or N'lunma May, ai i »a )iiuih Ircrpu-ntcd. 'iMich
there is no 'itlier slieltcr from the elfccts of sea-brec/.ts t';)'in 'he rf f. In ^oin^ in. a|.
.noughyou a;ive the west riu\ of the reef a pocd l.ertli, yo"' ni'st k •")> the learl 5;oill^;
th«! soundiniis are irregular, from .'> to 7 or H fathom.^ whence it .•dmalens cradually m
shore. The land bv the waterside is low, l)u. ;;|! in the io'.inf hii;l! and nneven. :.«
before explained. In ciunj: out of (inayamo Hay, run 8. S. W. or S. W.
From (juayauio Hav the next trailini; place is Salinas, a f;ood place to lie in. The
Caxa de Muertos or Dead Chest, ni;iy he seen iVoni, and is a guide to it. When at tlu
distance of from two to three lea<iue>; from (iuayamo Bay, you may steer W. J S., passing;
eevcral keys to the northward, which lie near the shore ; then, ha' ins: run to a mki
cient distance, haul in Inr the western f tid of the oMt"iitiost of these keys, and aliom ,
mile or a miie and a hail off that end is a reef, or > unken key, whi' h cannot be seen, Im-
the sea breaks over it ; have this to the westward, and run with tl • westernmost kcv r.n
board, within a cable's lcn<:th. This key is bold to, but shoaler to leeward towards iIp
breacli. 'i'he ciiard-house is three or four miles iVoni this key, and fnay be seen bfinrr
you get within. You may run in boldly for two miles towards the guard-honse. an,]
anchor within a mile of the same, in four or live fathoms, good ground, and moor tn thr
north-west.
When at anchor at Salinas, with the guard-house bearing N. i E., there is a goodwr
tering place close to the water side, a kind of lagoon which will be about N. bv \V
froir the ship, and half a mile to westwar.i of the gnanl-Jiouse. The water ap|ie;ii.
white to nearly a league without the key. 'I'he soundings arc from 12 to 7 fathonn.
very gradual, and there is no danger.
Within the key above mentioned, there are several other keys a little to the eastwun
of it; and in runnini; in you will see, a' a!)out three leagues to westward, two small ke\<
at a little distani-e from each other, one aj)peariiig double, tLt; other single ; you Imu
them to windward.
In quitting Salinas, steer outward in the same way asyov oniered. When without ili
key steer S. S. \V. until the Dead Chest bears west: you may then run down boMK.
giving that isle the berth of a mile. There is a small key about a cable's length fmii:
the S. W. end of the Dead Chest, to which a berth of a mile and a halfsliould be gi\(i;
You inay then haul in, and anchor under the lee of the isle at |)leasHre, in from 7 to i.
fathoms. With the west point of tiie small key S. by K. \ E., one mile and a half d,,
tant, and the north end of the Dead Chest, N. E. J E., there are 10 fathoms of watir, j-.
a mile from shore.
CAXA DE MUERTOS, OR DEAD MAN'S CUKSl .—Tliis island is on the
south side of Porto Rico, and liears E. ), S. ."t> miles from (ape Roy.o. When niadf r
appears in form of a wdge. The north end is high, the centre low, and the south fiii
has a sugar-loaf mountain, ■.••!" "'■ at a distance ripjiears a detadied inland. The anclior-
age is on the west side, oil ;',,, !:iw land, half a mile off diore, in s fathoms, in the I'.i
lowing bearing'.:— Sonth-e- . .)int of the small island, connetlcd in Caxa by a ret;
above water, S. VV. : the only sandy bay, .S. by E. ; tiie north-west point and nortlicr.
peak in one, east. There is no danger on the west side of this island, and off the I'V
land the soimdings are regular; but to the northward of it the water is deeper. :>ii(l V' i:
will have 17 fathoms close to the shore. ( )lV the southward of ihe island there is a^lRla;
which breaks about half a mile offshore.
PONCE. — The town and harbor of Ponce lie about 4 lea;^iies to the east of (uiniiiro.
To run for this port keep a miie olf tlie small key olf the S. W. end of the Dead MaiJ!
Chest, and run N. W. i, N., or N. W. by N. The land is low near the water, cover.,!
with mangrove bushes and some cocoanul-tree'; ; but the houses are also low, so iliai
you will not wee them until you open the harbor. In miming over, you will sec a km
sandy island, which you leave on the larboard hand. If it blows fresh, the reefwliiii
you turn round on the starboard hand, will appear as though there were breakers airi'-
the mouth or the harbor, but as you a|)proacli you will (iml the breakers do not in:iki n
far from the bushes. Vou may pass them within two cables' length, and keep nearer
the shore on the southern side of the harbor.
f
%
• Guayamo may be known by a windmill on a hill one mile to the westward of the anchorage.
Tn proff
■(M'nrs low.
ilii' cape, ;
tins (^api . I
eilge lui bo
W. H or ")
Til.' scin
of colit'i', si
i,';th (ii .lui
Nearly h;
harbor ol ( i
vill;i:;e and
Tn i-ntiT
steer v.. S.
begins aboi
only 1(1 Ice
von « ill |n'i
tree or i)nsl
'I'd (jiirhii
steer E. S.
on your sta
tlninis; mhi
bear (Vooi
is a good ri\
Ertrdcl fru
" .May l')i
til.- htile is!
At 1 1 «■(■ sa\(
ivico, wliich
west to run a
"May JOtl
a Somali isbnn
near the luidi
the largest sh
" I ran alo
eniinosL ol il
DoniiMg(» an'
"About 1
While (iroui
W. and 'J or :
IJ, an, I l.j fai
throii,rh the \
"At 11 wr
is tenninaleti
from it. To
name of Port
at anchor. 'I
covered the b
you soon des
and. is still Ic
«i)ili' samly
through whic
" In the wi
niid-channel,
most, is ca'le
is railed Moi
of those two
going out of
iluiilded (,"a|!i
leagues to thi
* The tracki
ris conuuander
RLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
403
1 rich, in niniiin!;
i;ir(l-h<ins{.'; ■.•j'i\
lIlC WPHtlH'l.'iiilSl
4 !";iilnini»., ■\ ••
the hrcyt h *■ ,
[lllflltcd. ''iMii;!!
Ill uoinsr ill. al
the lo;i(l ^ciii)!;;
PUS araihnllv ^
h iiiid iiiipvt'ti, >
W.
! to he in. The
it. When ni t)if
• W. ] S.,])a>.si|r
ii; run to ;i sntii'
pvs. nn<l ;tt)(iiit •,
iinot he seen, Inr
steriiniost kfv mi
ward townrrls il c
ay he «ieeji bflnri
n;iiar<i-h(iiisp. ;iri|
, aii«l moor lo ihf
lere is a conri wi.
ahoiit N. by \V
'he water appfi-
12 to 7 I'atiioiiit.
le to tlie easiwnn
(1, two small k«\«
single ; you !< ;i\^
When wiflidiit til'
run down holdiv.
iile's h>n{,'th I'm;
lit'should he <;mi
e, in I'roni 7 to i.
le and a lialf ii,>
liunis of waiti. .:
i.sland is uti iht
When nindi i'
Ind tlie soutli fill
id. 'Pile aiirlidr-
ilinnis, ill the I'ul-
(I ( 'axa by a ret;
|i)int anil norlheri
;ind otr the l'i»
|.s deeper, nndyii
ud there is aslaia.
east of duniiico.
If the Dead Maii'.>
|ie water, coven.'
also Imv, sn llial
hu will see a low
|i, the reef whirii
re breakers anii->
rs do not iiiakt o;i
Imd keep nearcs*
pf the anchorage.
Tn pvocfiedm^ on a west course towards C'a|)e Roxo, that cape, when (irst seen, Ap-
pears low. ^rey, a'niJ like two keys. A shoal, called the •While (rronnds. encuMpassea
the cape, i'.iiil eMcnil '■, 'he .S. W. At v! or ;{ ieai^iies lo the j-asiwaid and .vestward of
tins cape, there ai 1 '. L'J, and I'j iatlioins. It is a coral bank, aim close to the outer
eil^e 110 bottom is to be Coinid. The southern extremity ljcar« (Voin the cape S. W. |
\V. H or ') miles.
'riic schooner Dick, ('apt. Miles, of and fov Jlaltin.i.ic. fit i La (!iiav;>, with u c ..o
of coliee, struck on th Morillos Kocks south side of I'orto K'c", .r u'idnlght, on ,he
l.ilh of .1 line, and was tu'allx I ,*t.
Nearly half >* a) bctwe<n the ('axa de INIuertos and Cape Jloxo is the small hut securo
harbor of (iiianieo, which is described herealier. Four leagues more to the east, is 'be
villu:;e and road of I'om-e.
7'o fiilir MdiiiiLnirz, (Porto Kieo,) briipj; the island of Zaeh'O to hear \V. N. W. and
steer K. S. K. i on may approacli the island within .)() fathoms. Tiiere is a reef which
bei!;iiis almiU 1,'. mile from Zachco, and extends to (.'ape Koxo, forminy; a chain with
uiilv 10 feet water, and not to be attempted hut Jby small vessels. In steerinc K. S. E,
v(Hi will perceive a gully rMiining from the luouiuain, made by freijuent rains, without a
lice or i)iisli on it.
'I'd nnrlior in Mi/i/'ianrz lliiij, bri'i'j; the i.^land of Zacheo to bear W. N. \V., then
steer K. S. 10., which will brin<; you in sij;lit of the town, (toing in you will .see a reef
uo your starboard hand; «heii abreast you will have soundings in 13, I'J, and 10 fa-
ilioiiis; Nou may run into 7 fathoms and anchor: the extreme points of the bay will
i)cai- (Voiii .S. by W. to .\. W. ; the east part of the reel about N. W. J^ miles. There
i> a ^(ii)d river for ivaterin".
Eflrdrl J'nnii tlic Jniirnnl of n» e.rprrienrrr/ .Y.,'/'/t' '''"'•, nlonc ihe smilh sitffi nf Porta Rico,
(till/ 'in tlin chniinci belivecn /'oiin Rico iind SI. J)oiaingo, ^r.
" May l')th, at .'> o'clock, P. M. we thoiiuht we descried lo X. W. and N. AV. by N.
llii' little island of Koriijuem, (Crab Island.) siiiiated near the .S. K. end of Porto Rico.
At 11 we saw the land on the lariioard hand : 1 siippos'-d it to be the east point of Porto
Uico, which bore from lis N. W. and iN. W. by N., distant about J leagues: 1 steered
west lo run along its south side.
'•.May „>l)th. — Ai half past .■), A. .M. we saw Porto Rico, and the Dead Chest, which is
a sniali island dei„ ''cd from t!i ; main one, ami jiaving tiie form of •■ coflin. It lies very
near the middle ol liie south coast, and I have been assured that there is a passage for
the largest ships between it and the main land.
" I ran aloim the land, with an olfiiig of.J or 4 leagues, to fetch Cape Roxo, thewest-
ermnosL o( the soiilli coast of l'ort(» Kico, and whicii (onus, with the S. E. point of St.
iJuniingo and .Saoiia Island, a eliaimel from l'> to Jil ieayues broad.
"About 10 \. M. we saw the water discolored: we were upon a shoal called the
While (Grounds, which encoinpa-ses (Jape Koxo, and extends 3 or 4 leagues t . i\ta S.
W. and 'J or ;> leagues to the eastward and westward of liiis ca|)e. You have ihe '. 10,
1-'. and ]') fathoms. •The sand at the bottom is of such a shilling ivhite, that i: • ^KSa
thioiigh the water. We caught jilenty offish with liie line.
" .-\t 11 we distinguished a cape, which lies a liltle to the eastward of Cape J axo. It
is terminated to the souih by four little i.^laiids. which seem to be one league ' 'staut
from it. To the east of this eajie is a small bay, called in Van Keulen's chari by th
name of Porto (Juanico. The West India sloops can moor there : we saw two of th' •>
at anchor. This cape is low, and appeared at fust as a -.let died land, but we so, a dis-
covered the low land by which it is connected with the main island. Cape Roxo, which
yon soon descry to the westward of this, and which is the westernmo.^t point of the isl-
and, is still lower tliaii the former. IJetween the two yoi. distinguish a flat and very
while sandy sli.ne : it consists of tlie same sand that composes the White (irouuds,
ihrouijii which you may sail, but you must not come nearer the coast than two leagues.
" 111 the western jiart of 'he channel, between Porto Rico and St. Domingo, and near
niid-ehannel, are two small island.s ; the easternmost, which is likewise the sout.-iern-
niost, is called Mona : the sf-coml to the N. W. of the lornT^r, distance aboi't 2J leagues,
is called iNfonica. You must pass, if possible, to the windward, that is to the eastward
of those two islands, in order to double with more (aeiiity (Jape Enganno. that forrn.'^ the
going out of the channel, to the west on the side of St. Domingo. When you have
doubled (7ape Roxo, you descry to the northward of Zacheo, a little island lying 8 or 9
leagues (othe N. E. by N. of Mona. You leave Zacheo to windward., to pass between
* The tracks and soundings on this shoal are those of the U. £. frigate Congresa, Charles Mor-
ris connuundur, and may be depended on.
mf.
Ml
•':■ ^ivmft.?
404
BLfJ.NT's AMEUtCAA COAST PILOT.
it antl the sniiill istiiiid ol .\Tun;i, very nrir Hii'l-chaiinel : there is no d.ui'jer but whnf voii
Ciui see. \\ lien the \ ;i: , (inn's iVoni th'' K. S. K. or inily iVoni tin- e;ist. yon ;nc tidt
nbh^'ed Id tack, yon eross ihf chiinm 1 with a ([iiartiM- wiml. It is .sniticimt tn sleci N.
W. by N. to l'et( li <Jai)e Ivapliael, whicii is tin' N. E. point of St. |)otriinf;o, or tvci,
Cape Saniana, that hes about ri leiii;nes to the N. W, of ttie loriner. .Saniana Island,
wheine this cape takes its nann-. I'xti'mls (Voni east to west, I'J leagues: it is so near .Si.
iJomiiij^o that it a|)pears to be Joineil wilii it.
"At in>i)n Cape Ivoxu bore N. hy W. ilistanee .'V- leagues. It was not possible, on
account ol the clotniy weather, to take the nu-.idian altitude of the sun. We steered
M. W. by N. to enter the ehannel.
"At hair an hour alter 1,', leoukliief Zaeheo very plainly : I eontinnpd the same eoiir<»
to run aloiiy; it, at one or two icajjues 'h aaiiee. This island appears to be H(((l or Iiiim
yards lonij; it is nothing more than a green mounlain, on scvcial parts of which yoiin'
moinc woods. I was too iiiiieh to windwird to see the islands ol' .^iolla and Monica Iniin
the deck, but they could be perceived Croni the tnast head. The winri kept to the .S. ['.
till 4 o'clock. It is very seldom that in sailinij, through the chaiuicl of I'orto Kicu, \(iij
go belore the ^vind as I did. '
Dftcfijilin?!. (if Porto li'u , frmn the " Dcrrolrru (If las Atttillds," 5^r.
"This island is .'Jl leagues in length fri.ni east to west, and 11 leagues in breadth in
the broadest part. The N. E. point ol' it is named .juaii, (.St. .lohn's head,) wheic i|jf.
range of mountains called |jn(|uillos coimncMies. The liighest part of these, j-,1
^'un(pie, or the Anvil, may be seen at the distance ol' ^H inib s. The range contiinics k,
the westward with many intervals or openings, until it eiid-i al the hill named Silla (k
Caballo, (llorse's .Saddle,) which is to the sn'irhward of Arrecibo.
The harixjr ol' .San .Inaii re(|uncs a pilot. The liarl>oi- of Arrecibo is about 9j leai;ii(K
more to the vest; it has a small Sown on its western sidt . and a good river, but is Iml,
frei|urnted, being open to the north winds. From Arrecilio the coast trends nearly tni'
west to the N. W. end of the island. The land here is generally low until it reaclic
Puma de J'eiia Amijereada. (or P(iiiit (»!' the llole<l Heck,) win re a kii;d tit' cliliy lii;i
land begins, whnli trends S. W. rather more tlian a mile , > Point Mniguen. flie ndiili-
westernmost |)oim of I'orto Rico, 'i'lic; coast again declines in lieight, and t'orms .icoi,-
Vf'X bow to Tunta do Penas iilancas, (Whitestone's I'oiiit,) the north j)oint ol' AgiinJi
Bay.
AUCADILIi V BAV.*— From the Point Penas Hlaiicas. the little town of Agiinla
bears S. .S. F. "J miles. In the hay iii'lore the town, or rather village, is anclmrajL;!' |i"
the largest ships, with shelter from the -.ea bree/.e. This bay may be entered at ;iii\
hour of the d.iy. witli facility ai.. safety, but not at night, as the breeze then dies -w.w
and a calm ensues. There is excellent water to be obtained at a rivulet which piisM-
through the miil He of the .diage. The siluatir)ii of the latter a& given by the Spam-h
Olticers. is lar H '■ -I't' b.V, long. (j7° 0' 'M" .
This bay is miieh lre(|nenteil bv vessels bound from Europe to ('ul)a, both on accoiin:
of the ficility with which ilicy can procure rel'ie-,hmerus, and liecause ;->iols for the ji;i-
hama oi Obi Chaiin*d may always l)e found here. If intending to anchor in Agiiiula
Bay, .if'ev rounding I'oint Riu:;uen. knep about three cables' lenglh from the shore, in ni-
derto give berth to a shual whicli s|)it>. out from Punla de las Palmas; whence to ilini
of Penas IJlam-as ynii may approach the coast nearer, as it is very clean; and at hall a
cable's lenglh from the shore you may liud four fathoms of water.
To anclior iiring Poin* .\iruada N. N. W. 'i or .'$ miles, the church tower E. N. V...
the i i,md of Zaeheo W. by S., wlien yon will be in 10 falhoms water about three cahliN'
]>. I'.'tli from the shore ; there is a good river of \\fA\ water ; the sea in general smkpuiIi.
with usual trade wiml ; but should the wind incline to the northward avoid anchoring;, or
weigh w soon as it stus i;i.
At .'v \V. by W. 7.J miles from the village of Aguada, is Point .St. Francisco, with
varicds r' ks about it. All the coast between has a beach, with many shoals foriiied m
the vivf^r^ licr't empty themselves into the sea. At two cables' length Irom the coast iiit
4 fathoms cf water, with bottom of rocks and sand ; but there is no anchorage. At S.
W by S. j.-nher less than half a mile I'rom Point St. Francisco is Point Guigero, tlit
westernmost point of Porto Rico, otlierwise called El Riucou. About it the ground is
shoi-l with many rocksi.
il
* Called Aguada on aonie charts.
"Tbet,
nge (idiii 1 1
(.i- S. ."^. W
I'oiiii Itru
it is Point
side ol liie
olf al riial
the luttti, I
t»vo miles.
)),i\ is peifr
Iriiiii Point
(or the (lepi
arc. a lar;
town. IJel
bear \. E.
Here you w
Tin^ anclioi
lay your an
cborage in
In shore iIk
before the (i
tlie anelioi',1
yen may I)"
III the uii
the bay, and
than from -J.
ill event of i
chorale ,S. '
between /a(
".S|ii|)s (-0
the i-ilaiid, ar
work iij)as ai
of east ; for (
but ail clear
'• From P(
a half miles
altlioiigli wel
rocks. Altei
the loriner.
which they w
all i)eacli, an
probablv forii
"The Pun
N. by E. ami
between then
'• The Anc
ships, |)rovidt
sary, in order
garrol)a. It j
stretches out
" To the w
there is a rot
may pass ver;
"A little w'
rocky shoal, i
est breadth n
To anchor
Point, (Punti
directly asterr
German is up
and winding li
other. Run i
luflf up and ai
2Pr but what you
'list, you iuc lint
icifiit to steer N.
i)inint;o, or even
■Samaria Isl^md,
it 13 so near Si.
* not possible, mi
iiii. We Bteeml
I the same course
to hr HO(t or liiiiu
ot whieii ynii ci
and Monica iVdin
Uf|)t to the S. K.
' I'orto Kicu, \ou
,"^t
(IS
lies in breadth in
head,) where the
lart ol' tiiese, Kl
rans;(' contiiiiies t(,
II named Silhi ili
s ;d)niit *).', leai:ti(-
river, hut is Iml.
trends tuMrly in;'
)\v until it reaclit
Kii;(l of elitly 1,-
Hiiuen. tlie ikhiIi-
it, and tonus .icdi,.
1 point of A|:\i;ili
> town of Aiinal;;
, is iiiichoraf;c ii ■
he entered at ;uiv
ze then dies aw.n
iih't wiiieli pasM'.
11 hy tlic Spaiii-ii
hdtii on accdim;
;-i|(>ts tor tlic ISi-
iiu lior in Ai;ii;iil:i
III the shore, in ni-
whoiiee to iliai
•an; and at hall a
tower E. N. K,.
Iiboiil tliree eiihli'v'
I general siiHiiilli.
^■i)id anclioriii};, or
It. Francisco, with
shoals foriiietl ii}
Iroiii the coast aie
ln(hora£;e. At S.
Joint Ciuigero, the
(l it the ground is
BLtwr S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
105
Rnnarls on A^ymvllUn lln/, ,\r. hij Citpt. John Murkrllar, R. N,
"The town is in iat. Id" 2-1' !)7il, and loiii{.b7' ri'lTj". In proeeedinf; for tJie anchor-
am' tioin the northward, you may run rounil the .\. W. point of the island, about S. W.
i,r S. S. W. within a mile ol' llie shore; your depth of water will be Jd or ■,'.') lalhoms.
j'oiiii liriii|uen, the .N. W. point, is a hisih steep clilf; about a mile to the southward of
It is INniit I'ahiias^^a low sandy point, covered with trei-s. The latter forms the nortii
side of the bay, and in roiindinj; you must liive it a berth of a mile, as a reef stretches
olf at that distance, llavini; rounded tliis reef, with liie bay fairly open, you will see
flie tuMii, lyins; in the N. K. side of the bay, with strauuliiii; houhjs to the .•>). W. for
t»vi) miles. 'J'he aiichora;.'e is before tlii' town and near the slior". The whole of the
l)a\ is perfectly clear witli the excejitimi of the white reel, (I'enas Hhincas,) extending
from Point I'alma.s : and you may stand to a (|uarier of a mile from sj'ore any where,
for the depth of water will not be less than 7 or H fatlioms. 'J'he marks I'ur ancliorins;
are. a liir^e house standiii!; by itself, about a cable's leimlli i'l "ii tiio e.irth end of the
town. IJetvveeii it and the town is a small balterv of three uuiis. tiring this house to
bear N. K. .', N., the ehni<;h steeple K. l S., and the north |)oiiit of the bay N. by \V.
Ilcie you will have IH faihoins, and very ^ood bottom, at ;iboul half a mile from shore.
Tlie anchorage is very good farther in shore, in from 10 to !.'> fathoms. If you moor,
lay your anchor in lit fathoms, an I outer one in from 1.) to If*. There is also yood an-
cliora;;e in from 'JO to 'Jl fathoms, but there ycui Mi' more liable to drive oil' the bank.
In shine the aiiciinrai^e is ^o extensive, that you can hardly err in aiichoriiii^ any wiiy
before the town. The winds are freipirntly variable, and render it dilhcult to a:et up to
the anchor. i^e. At limes the sea liree/.e blows fresh over the land Iroiii the N. K.; then
veil may l)"at in with ease.
Ill the winter months, when the iiiu'th wind blows stronjly, there is a heavy swell into
till' b;iy, and threat surf on the iieacli. Lar^c ships oni;lil not then to anchor farther in
than from ','.'} to 2'i fathoms; they will tlius have room to get under weii;h and work out,
in eve'iil of its coiniiii; on to blow; and. as the west point of the bay bears from the an-
cliora'^e S. \V . .', W. a ship will lay luit with the wind at N. W., and may run tluouj;h
between Zadieo and the S. \V. point of tiie island.
".Ships ('(uuiir.; from the southward tor A^uada, may also pass between Zacheo and
the island, and when /achco bears W.by S. tliey will have tlic bay fairly open, and may
work upas above; takiny; care to keej) the west point ot' the island bearing: to the soiitliv ard
of east ; for olf it there is foul ground all the way to the southward, as far as ("ape iioxo,
but all clear to the northward.
" From Point (iuij;iiera, (says the Derrotero,) the coast trends S. F. by S. three and
n half miles to I'unta de la Cadena, having one small bay, named del Rincun, wliicli,
although well sheltered from the si-a breeze, has a very une(|ual bottom, and is full of
rocks. Alter Puiita de la ("adena hdlovvs that of Ali;arroba, which lies S. F. A fc>. Iroiti
the former. Hetween these ))oinls lies the V>;\y of Anasco. lit for vessids of any size, in
which they will be coiupleiely shellert;d Iroiii the .Norths, or north winds. 'IMie coast is
all beach, and the bank or shallow water which extends from it about half a jiiiie, is
probably formed by tiie river Anasco. which disembodies at this place.
"The Pniita de .\l<Mrroba is the ninth point of the Hay of .Mayauuez, an<i lies nearly
N. by K. and S. by \V. with the south point named I'unta de Guanagivo : ilie distance
between them beiiiij about four miles.
" 'IMie Anchorasje of .Mayamiez is well sheltered from the Norths and fit for bri^s and
ships, provided tiiey are not very lari^e; but a i;ood knowledge of its entrance is neces-
sary, in order to avoid a shoal, which stretches out alioiu half a miU- from I'uiiia del Al-
garroba. It is necessary, also, to tjive a berth to the Punlilla «ir Little Point, for a reef
stretches out about two cables' leiiij;tli t'rom it.
"To the westward of Puiita del ,\ls;arroba, and ah<»ut a lar; >i m the coast,
there is a nuky shoal named las iManchas. with 4 fathoms of water uu it : aut vessels
may pass ver^ well between it and the shori:-.
"A little witliout the line of the tW'> points, and about kalf way between tliein, is a
rocky shoal, stretciiin;;; nearly N. and >. Its 'en<:rh is about half a mile, and it.s great-
est breadth not much less; it is named R.ixo de Rodrijiuez, (Kodripo's Shoal.)
To anchor in the p.irt of the bay whi<di is best sheltered, haviiit; rounded the Little
Point, (PutUilla,) place vour vessel in such a situation that when the island Deseclieo is
directly astern, you will have the hinhway of the town of San (terman exactly ahead. St.
German is upon a hill which is pretty hish and pointed. The highway is of red earth,
and winding like a snake, and there can be no danger of mistaking it, as there is no
other. Run thus until being soiuethmg to the southward ot tiie Little Point, you may
luft' up and anchor within it, in either J or -1 fatuoms, as you may think proper. The
400
BLUxNt's AMKRICAN coast F1IA)T.
river of May >i,mu;7. runs into tin; sen at the Ixilioni of this liay, and in it lliP scliiioin-m
and sldops tor till' most part winter, as it is ilie Ijt'st andiorago on tin' w(':4 coast oi ili,.
inland.*
•' South iVoin IMinta dc (luanagivn, ahont ^)\ nulc», is I'uerto Ui-al do (-'al)o l'n,\u-
itH figure is almost cirtular, and tin,' I'xtrnt iVom ucst to east is al)out threw t|narters di n
inih'. At its eiaranco ari' If lathonis of water, and in its middle ii> t'eei. The <'nti;inri
is hy a very ii.irrow chaniM'l, near llie sontli point ol the harhor, and I'lom the north iKim;
II j^reat reel streiehes out, whieli. donhiinf; (ayo l'"andiieo. I'nds at I'nxta <le \'ariiN.
" S. S. W. (Voni this port, at the distance ol two nnles, is the I'unta de (iuani;.'inll;i,
which is the north point of a hay named Del liO(|ueron; tlii.s is so lull of reels as nm i.,
allow ain'horagc. I'unta de .MeloiH's, (Melon Point,) winch is the south point ol |||.
hay, is distant Irom the liisi ((■nanii.'nilla) alioiit two and a hall' miles, or a little nmn ;
-iuni nearly west (Vom this |)omt, at aliout six and a hall' miles distant, is tiie Uaxo lie (;,i|.
laido, ((iilliard's Shoal,) ol which we shall spcnik hereal'ier. Alons; the whole ol ijn
west coast the Monte (or Hill) de la Atalaya nniy he seen. It is the hit;iiest and iiiii>i
Mortlu'rly peak ol' the two, which are sm-n on the hijLjhest part (d the irnmnlain riiiivi
and wliich stands S. l\. hy K., true, Irom the I'unta de San l'"ramisco, and whnh ildiv
not alter the appearani^e ol its shape even when you are to the southward ol die hi,
Uesecheo."
SHOALS OKI' THK WKST COAST— FJesides the shoals on this coast ahtiidv
noticed, there are sc'veral others, which we siiall now deserihe.
" 1st. 'J'hat denomiir.ited Haxo Ne^ro, (Mlaek Shoal,) which is a reel'or very siiiiil
extent, ami upon which the sea always hreaks. It is distant Irom the nearest coast ahdin
;{.'; miles, and lies W. S. W . ^ W. from I'unta Citiaiianivo, and S. '^ K. from l'mii;iji
(luinuera.
" -Jd. 'I'hat called Media liUiia, (Half Moon,) which is a reefed" aliont two thinJMii
a mile in len;;th, north and south, and about two and a half I'ahles' leii;.'th. The sen i,
ways breaks upon it; it is about live miles liom the coast; lialf a mile from it, alioiit K
N. K., there are three rocks which sliow abovi^ water, and on which the sea aiw.n.
hreaks. HMie northern extremity of tln^ reef is nearly S. W. hy W. from I'unta de (ii,-
anagivo, and south from I'unta de (iiiiiruera.
" .'5(1. That named I, as ('oronas, (tin; Crowns,) which are snoals of sand, on which ;ii
times the sea hreaks, and tlic extent of w hich, in all directions, is scarcely a mile. li|,
about three and a half miles distant from the coast, and bears nearly S. W. by S. iVmii
I'unta dr (iuanajibo, and S. \ K. from I'unta de (iuii:uera.
" 4th. A shoal which lit's to the westward from i'unta de (iuaniiiiiilla, at the (listai,ip
•of two miles. It may be about two cables' length in extent, and there are three failifiiir
•of water upon it : the bottom is rocky. It bears S. by VV. j- W. from the I'unta de (iimn.
■agivo, and S. ^' E. from I'unta de (tuis;uera.
" 5th. Raxo de (lallardo, which is almost due west from Punta de Melones, ;iii(l s\
miles and a half distani linm it. lis extent is about three cables' ieimtli. and the Icm
depth of water mi it is ,'! fathoms, with rocky bottom. It lies \silh the l>b' hiNcdm
heariiiij N. bv \V. -^ W., Monte de Atalaya S. by W. ^' W. and the southern exin iiiitvi!
the MorillosE. S. E."
The Soulh Conxt, from West to Edst. — From tlie Morillos, or Little Hills, in tlic S.
W., to Capo Mala|)as(|iia, which is the S. E. extremity of the island, the coast is oi
double land, and is very foul, with reel's, islets and shoals, which stretch out from it. Iii
the middle of it is the island Caxa de Muertos, or Coffin Island, distant from tlie lu.iM
four miles, and foul on both its N. E. and on its S. W. sides.
iiuaniro. — ( )n tliis coast tlie best an<'hora2;e is in the harbor of (lutmico, live IfHjnie*
to the eastward of the Morillos : it is lit for vessels of all classes, with from (>/, In 'U.v
thonis of water, which latter depth is found in its interior. The bottom is of sand iimi
grav<d. Tlie iiimith of the harbor is in the middle of a bay, formed by the point iHiJ
«lilf of IJrea. (Pitch I'oitit.) on the west, and that of Picua on the east. Jn the iii'i:'!i
borhood of thia last are two islets, and from theiu to I'unta de la Meseta, which is ilif
* The follow inc: is a former descriplion of the Biuht, of Miiyniriiez : dii tlie western side of Pur.
to Rico is the ALiiiada Niieva, one of the fine.«i roadsieads f.ir shippioj; in the West IruJifs, being
sheltered from the trade winds by the island. Here the jrfiHeons and tloia frencrally anclvircd and
obtained relVesiiincnts win n they came from Spain. Ships may anelior in the road in i'roiii23toM
fathoms, >rood ffround. In 2.3 fiithoins, soft oozy ground, tlm luirllic-riinost (loiiii bears N. N. ^.1
3 inileg, the other jioint S. l)y E. about two leaoues, and n smnll viliai2:e anion^r the trees is dii^inn! I
about one mile. In coniin;; into this road from the noriliward, you may sail within a mile ol tlie :
shore to the southward of the north point, there bcinp 1(1, 12 and l.ltalhonis of water ; and, liaviii"
passed that point, you will have 25 and 30 fathoms, .soft oozy ground. Some part along the grounil
is Hut and rocky, but you may sail uU round within half a uiile of the shore.
rast point i
alwrnt a mi
iillier vrilh
Mt tweeli
lust IS the
the nimitli
south sid(> I
only to i;iv(
but, aUo, tr
To eiitei
this, liriiij;;
whii h are :i
Pap. yon w
run in with
risk whatevi
N. or perhii
If you ac
point or bin
[lassiiif; if, il
interior of t
with the not
thorns of wa
By those
must be lake
gins to the >
. as an island.
. iiothiiiii; is ea
, to ritn down
port; thus y
peiise of hot
who navigate.
in this predic
of Aneijada, ;
course to inal
, bpcau.se these
tlicm. althous:
ziiii; f(;rthat(
or ill case you
iN'either is the
tion of cirtiin
f;iil, on the foi
the vessel mii;
tnew and St. I
cnu.sc it h;,s „,
niiiii throuj(;h
channels, the
W. so as <!) i.jj
have only to r
From tlie is
trade winds, ir
and is so far tn
the Ics-iser Ant
with the br«ezi
file variablev.
to windward, ft
land breeze pre
of the Colomb
General Din
As to choosin
[you ought to Ci
BLUNT S AMKUICAX COM^T PtI.OT.
407
: tliP sclitioiH'm
est t'oasl til I lit'
ilt> (!alit» Roxii;
ii'e (|Uiiiifis (i| a
I tl)l< limtll |iiii|i;
xtii tl»' Villas,
tie (tii;ii)i;:uill:i.
i)t' rvvi'* •-If' iKii I'l
mil point III ill'
(ir a lillli' iiiiiM .
[lif r>iixii lie (l.il-
llic wlicile til' iIk'
liiiilifst ;mil iii'isi
iiiDiiiiliiiii riiii'.i
, -.mil whiili (li.'v
liwaril ol' ilif Im(
tb''* ciiasl aliLMiJ^
iTcl' of vi-ry siiiiil
cart'st ciiast almi,!
K. tVoiii I'linm ill
liout two tliinU'.
ij-tli. 'IIk- si',1 i!
■ iVoiii it. alidiil I'.
eh tlie sfva aiwii\-
oin I'liiita til- ('I.
sand, on wIikIi '
)ffiv a niii<'- lii-
S.'W. by S. iViiii;
ilia, at llio (lisf.iiiv
• an- tliii'«' rallKMii-
le I'liiitailf (III III
Mcloiirs, ami \\
iiL^lli, anil till' li'.i^i
li ihf I sit' l>i'sc(liii
liihoni cxiniuiiyi:
lie Hills, in llif S,
111, the coa^^l is m
■h out tVuiii it. Ill
latil iVoin tin: iu.im
l:i,«i''o, fivi' I<".i2iif
Ith tVoin (i7^ III :'>'!■
loin is of saiui iiml
1(1 l)_v tin' 1'"'"' '","'
1st. " in till' iii'i-"'
iseta, which isi il''
western side of T
I West Indii'S. lu-,::; f
iiorally nnclwin il m '
I road in i'roiii 2:1 ■ "
ioiiil bears M. N- ^^
Itr the trees isiii-'
within a niiic "i "■'•
If water ; and, haviii.
Lrt along thu ground
rasf point of iho entrance of the harbor, there is a reef, wliirh reaches ntit from the coast
;il)iiiit n mile, ami nearly loriiis a cirele, iiiiitiiif!; at one end with the isletH, and at the
oilier with I'linta ile la .Meseta. *
15. iweeii I'nnia de Mrea anil Pnnta de Ins I'eseadores, (Kisherinan's I'liint.) whieh
1,1,1 IS the west pi>ii't III till' iiniiitli iif the port, the eoast tnnns another hay, of whicli
the iniinth is shut hv a reef that, rnniiin;: iiiit rroiii i'linta de I'escadores, ends on the
siiiitlixide of the l)ay,ahoiil a niiliMvitliin the point and elill of Mrea. it is necessary not
(inlv to iZive a herih to the reef which runs from I'linta de I'iciia to I'linta de la Meseta,
1)111. alsii. to a riieUy sh'ial, which stretches out a short half mile from it.
I'll enter thi-i liarlmr ymi must steer on the mitside of these hanks or reefs. To do
this, lirinn tin' I'nnta de la .Meseta exactly in one with one of the j'aps of ( lerro ( Jordo,
u liii li are at some distaiii e inland. If you run in with the point in one with the western
I'ap, vou will shave the hank very close, hnf will havi; 10 fathoms of water : hut. if yon
run ill with I'nnta de la .Meseta in one with the eastern I'ap, yon will pass without any
risk whatever. Von will have passed the shoal when the islets at I'unta I'ii ua hear K. |
N. or perlnips a little sooner.
If vmi advance to the liarhor hy I'uiita de I'.rea or I'itch Point, yon may pass this
point or hIntV at a cahle's len^tli. and thence steer to within the Piiiita de la iMesela,
passiiii; it, if necessary, at a (|narler of a cahle's lensfth. and thence proceeding for tlie
interior o( the harlior. only ohservin^ that yon may make holder with the south than
with the niirili side ol' the entrance. \'ou may ancliur where you please in 4 or 5 fa-
llioms of water.
Dirertions for miiJcing Porto Tiico, ^v.
By those advancing from the eastward, and hound for Porto Rico, every precaution
iniisi he taken, so as to avuiil the dangers of ,\ ni'i^'ada. This island, the last of the Vir-
gins to the N. K., is so low, that it may he considered rather as a dangerous shoal, than
as iin island. If navigating witli care, and with certainty of the situation of the vessel,
niithing is easier than to cross the meridian of Aneg;nla on a jiarallel ahove 1')", and soi
to run down afterwards on I'orto Kico, as to make the land to w indward of your destined
port: thus you will not ho ohligeil to heat up again for a distance overrun, at tlie ex-
pense of both time and labor. lUit as it may happen, among the multitude of ihoso
who navigate, that some one may he misled hy an erroneous reckoning, and find himself
ill this prediciiment, we recommend it to such, in order tliat they may avoid the dangers
of Anegada, and also avoid overrunning Porto Jiico, that they, at all times, shape a
course 'o make the islands of St. Bartholomew and St. ]>iartiiis, (or the parallel of 18°)
because these islands are high and clean, and there is no danger of being wrecked on
tJH'in. although sailing by night, or in thick weather, so that you have a league of hori-
zon; for that distance here affords time, either to steer so as to take some of the channels,
or ill case you prefer it to haul by the wind, and wait for daylight, or for clear weatlier.
Neither is there a risk of passing them without seeing them; and even if hy a combina-
tion of cirtiimstances, which will he very strange, this should happen, they could not
fiil, on the following day to see some of the Virgin Islands, by which the situation of
the vessel might he rectified. In choosing either of the channels between St. Bartliolo-
niuw and St. iMartin's, or between the latter and Anguilla, we should prefer the latter, be-
cause it lias no detached islets lying olf from the principal lands; and, therefore, run-
. niiig through it, even at night, it is not so unsafe. Having run through any of these
rhannels, the course must be made to the south of the Virgins, and thence to the N.
W.su as '<> jjiiike the ("ape of St. ,)uan of Porto Kico, and liaviiig recogni/.ed this, you
have only to run afterwards as may best answer for your port of destination.
From the island of Porto Kico you may escajie from the region of the general or
trade winds, into that of the variables, merely by steeritig to the north; and. as this isl-
and is so far to windward, it is easy to gain all the easting that is necessary for going to.
the lesser Antilles or ('aribbee Islands. You may gain thus to windward, and beating
with the breeze without being under the necessity of running into high latitmlesto catcli
2 (lie variables. On Porto Rico you cannot count on land breezes to facilitate the getting
I to windward, fop on the next eoast. the utmost is that the breeze calms at night, but no
■4( land breeze proceeds. Lastly, from this ishmd you may, on one stretch, catch any point
of tlie Colombian Main, from Laguayra to leeward.
General Directions for the making of, and navigating among, the Caribhee Islands.
[From the Dcrrotcro de las Antillas.]
As tn choosing the north or south part of any of these isles for making your land-fall,
you ought to consider, firstly, which point is nearest to the port or road to which you
40S
IW.IM d AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
nredt'stined ; and. scrondly. thv spuson iti wh'nli you :;(). In the dry «pasnn, it in to he
rcnieinliprcd iliattlu' winds an* upneriilly (Vdii flie ndHli-Piixtward, iiiid in I hi" riiiii> ^m.
Kon tlii'y iirp iittcn lidtn the Nrintli-cjistward. 'I'lms, in llir dry seaMon, it in hcut lo iriiikp
tlic norih side, and tlio wet .seasim, the soiilii, but without h)sing si^ht ul the first (on.
Midi-ration.
'I'hf'rc ran !)«• no mistake in rrromiisin!: any of the Antiilas; and, in maltini; .*>t. Hur-
thuhiinew's and St. .Martin's alone, can titeie he any (hmbt on Keein;; at once the t'lm
nences or heit^litM of various islands. That this niHy not mislead nny one, they inu<i|
reniPinher the Coliowiri!; instruitions.
When in tlie parallel ol' .'^t. {{arthnlomow'a, at leas than four len^urN otT, if there hp
no fo^ or ha/e, the islands of .St. Kuslatius, Sahu, Ht. Kitts, Nevis, and St. Martin')* ap-
pear plainly.
The mountain of St. Knstatius forms a kind of table, with uniform declivities to the
east and west. The top is level, and at the east |)art of this plain a peak rises wlndi
makes it very remarkable. To the west of the mountain seems to be a i;reat strait, (m
coiise(|uence of tlie hinds near it beinsj under the hori/on, or .seemint; drowned,) and ii,
the west of that there then appears, as it were, another lonj; low isla», 'he N. W. pari of
which is hinliest ; but it is necessary not to t)c deceived, for all tliat .1 is part of the
land of .St. Kuslatins. From this station Saba apjiears to the N. W • ii i." not so liith
as St. Knstatius, and appar<iitly of less extent than the western |)art of St. Kustatim,
which is seen insulated.
The N. \V. |)art of St. Kitfa is also seen, formed by great mountains, in appenranfe
a.s elevated as .St. Kustatius, with low land to the east : to the eastward of this low land
Nevis will be seen, a|)parently higher than all the others.
The lands of St. Martin's are notably hi|i;her than those of Si. Bartholomew's; .md
this island appears also when you are some leagues further distant from it than froin.'st.
Bartholomew'.^.
When there are any clouds which hinder .St. Martin's from beinji; seen, there in;iv
be some hesitation in recocnisinfj .St. Hartholemew's; and thus it is proper to im
tice that the latter, seen upon its own parallel, appears small, and with four peaks, tromi
ing north and south, and occupying almost its whole extent ; and if you are not iin"
than eiiiht leagues from it, you will see, also, the appearance of an islet to the iiciri
and another to the south, at a very short di.stanee. As this island has neither trees, hieii
mountains, nor tliickets, it is not subject to fogs ; and it may therefore be seen r)fieiifr
than .St. Martin's, St. Kitts, Nevis, .St. Kustatius and Saba ; it is therefore advisable m
keep its a|)pearance in mind.
At eight leagues to the east of .St. Bartholomew's you may see Nevis very high ; from
it to the west the strait called the Narrows, and then the lands cd St. Kitts, appearin^lo
rise out of the water, and which continue increasing in height to the westward, so thai
the westernmost of two mountains, which are at the west part of it, is the highesi.
This mountain, which is higher tlian that called Mount Misery, has to the west ol ii a
gentle declivity, te'ininating in low land ; and it cannot be mistaken for any other. In
the west of this you may also see the largo strait towards St. Kustatius; but from llii<
situation you will see only the high S. K. part of that island, or rather its mountain, in
consequence of which it appears like a very small island, while its mountain seems to
be lower than Mount Misery ; but it is easily known from the table which its top lorms
by the uniform declivities to the east and west, and by the peak on the S. K. p;ii[ ■■;
it. Saba seems, from this situation, equal in size to the visible part of .St. Ktistaiiiis
but it shows only an eminence without peaks, with uniform declivities, and almost roiim!
If a small islet appea»-,s to the west of. and very near to. .St. Kustatius, that nin-^t m:
confuse you; for it is the N. W. extremity of tliat island ; and on getting nearer, yna
will perceive the land which connects it with the .S, K. part. Mount Misery, on .>!
Kitts, which has a very high and sharp peak on the eastern part of its summit, seems m
a distance to be the summit of Mount Kustatius ; but it cannot be mistaken for .such, ii
you attend to its surface being more unequal than the table land at the top of St. Eustn-
tins, and tliat there is another less elevated mountain to the east, and with gentle decli-
vities, wliii h show much land to the east and west of the high peak.
On no part of Mount Misery can any resemblance be traced to a man carrying anothfr I
on his hack, and which, according to a saying, was the reason why Columbo named thi< I
island .St. Kitts.
When you are six leagties to the east of .St. Bartholomew's, its N. W. extremity ap- ■
pears insulated, and lias the appearance of a preny large island, on the top of which f
there are four small steps, (like steps of stairs, Kscalones,) with a considerable strait to [|
the .south, between it and the principal island. In the middle of this strait you may also; .|
gee a smaller islet. This is really one of the islets which surround the island ; but the;
first is only the N. W. point, to the north of which you will see also some islets: allj
these are much nearer St. Bartholotnew's than St. Martin's.
lonunn, it ii tn he
in the rniiiy xfa-
it is hcNt H) iii;ikc
t ol the first cun-
I mukiiiK St. Riir-
iit once the I'lm
y one, I hey musi
r-s i)(T, if there he
d St. Martin's a|i
derlivitie« to tlic
peak rises wlnili
a i;reat strait, (m
drowned,) and ti.
• he N. W. i)ari(i|
' •;! is ()art ofili.
' ii If not so liitl;
of iSt. EuHtatitiv
ns, in appearanff
rd of this low liuii
irtholomew 's ; niii
)m it than from .'*t
g seen, there may
t is proper to im
I four pealis, trriiu
you are not uw
islet to the min
neither trees, hii;i!
)re be seen ottciiPr
refore advisable lo
is very high; from
Kitts, appearinsjin
westward, so thai
it, is the hi^tiesi.
to the west ot it s
"or any other. To
ius ; but from llii<
er its mountain, iii
mountain sceiiiP to
hich its top loriDs,
ri tlie S. K. ii;ui ";
of .St. EnstariiM
and ahrost rouin!
Ills, that must m!
icttinig; nearer, yoa
lit Misery, on Si.
summit, seems iil
stai<en for such, «
e top ofSt. Eustn-
with gentle decli- ;
m carryina anothrr
olumbo named ihiJ
W. extremity ap- [
the top of whirh f
nsiderable strait to ;
strait you may also j
he island; but the;
0 sorae islets : all ;
IMAGE EVALUATION
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WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580
(716)872-4503
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BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
409
m
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'*}
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V
Finallv, to navigate from one of the Aiitillas to another of them, there is no more
triiiibie than wliiit a sim|)ie uavi^atiori reijuires; but it is sometliing greater when you
liave to get from leeward to windward ; yet this will be reduced to a trilling considera-
tion, if the navigation is made by tlie straits whli'h are to the north of Martinique, and in
which the currents are weakest ; but the same does not follow in the southerly straits, in
which the waters set with more vivacity towards the west; and it would be impractica-
tiU? by the straits of Tobago, Grenada, and St. Vincent, in which the waters run at the
rate of not less tlian two ujiles an hour.
Wi:\DWARD AI^» LGEWASTD ISLANDS.
Under the denomination of Windward Idands, we include the whole range from the
Virgins to Trinidad ; and under that of LeCivard Islands, the range which exists be-
tween Trinidad and the (iulf of Maracaybo.
The Windward Islands apjiear at a distance as if united together ; but there are many
deep channels between them, through whichtho.se aci|uainted sail with safety.
The Passage Isiei, which are de|)endenci(is of Porlo Rico, and the Isle m' St. Croix,
or Santa Cruz, which lie to the southward, were crlginully inthuled under the general
name of the Virgin Islands.
The western division (Danish) includes the islands of St. Thomas and St. John, with
the numerous islets, as those of St. James, Montalvan, or Little Sa'ia, Savanna or Green
Island, the Brass Isles, Hanseatic, and others, 1 he eastern division (British) includes
Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, .Tost Van Dyke's Isles, the Thatch Isles, Normand's,
Peter's, Salt, Cooper's, Ginger, Beef, Cainanoa, Scrub, and Guana Isles, with a number
of islets in their vicinity. The whole group, Anogada excepted, is high, craggy, and
mostly bold to.
Tortola, a few miles to the N. E. of St. ,Tohn, is the principal of the English Virgin
Islands. It is near 5 leagues long, and 12 broad, but badly watered, and has the name of
being unhealthy. The entrance is wide, with plenty of water.
The town is situated on the south side, at the bottom of a bay 2 miles deep, with a
pretty good road at the entrance, with Iv? fathoms wafer, good ground.
\'irgin Gorda, that is, the Great Virgin, or Penniston, more commonly Spanishtown
Island, lying to the eastward of Tortola. is formed of elevated land, and is watered even
worse than Tortola. The island has two good harbors, the largest of which is that called
East Bay, on the northern side, wherein you may anchor very safely in from 5 to 10 or
12 fathoms, to leeward of the island called the Prickly Pear; but the entrance is narrow,
being olistructed by a reef on each side. The next harbor is that called the Great or
West Bay, which is in some degree sheltered to the v/est by the islets called the Dogs.
The roadstead hero has very good liolding ground, of sand and ooy.e, in 8 to 10 fathoms
of water. In the smaller bay, called Thomas Bay. more to the S. W., vessels may an->
chor before the town, in (j or 8 fathoms; but there is a leef in the middle of the bay,
which stretches north and south; and there are likewise many rocks in the bottom,
which chafe the cables.
The course from Saba to Virgin Gor^a "s N. \V. by W. northerly, above '26 leagues,
When V^irgin (Jorda bears from you N. W. by N. 7 leagues otf, the Virgins appear
like three islands, with a great many small ones about them ; the middlemost is the longest,
and when you come within :') leagues, they seem as if they were joined together.
The best mark for Virgin (Jorda is an insUuUed hill, of moderate height, standingnear
the middle of it, and which is easily known by its being alonejjL This hill, in clear we^->
ther. may be seen at the distance of 7 leagues. ^
Mr. Lockwood, who surveyed these isles, says that under tl^lee of Virgin Gorda, the
groimd is so clear, that ?>V,0 sail might anchoi in the space between the Dogs and the
Valley. The North Sound, he adds, is a perfectly secure port, and of great oapaoity.
Tile entrance between the two reefs is not dliiicult to discover.
ANKGADA, Oil ANAtiADA, is the most northern of the Virgin Islands, and is un-
happily celebrated for the number of wrecks, accompanied, in many instances, with a
heavy loss of life, which it has occasioned.
Anegada is about the size of \'irgin Gorda, but so low that its coasts are inundated at
hi§h tides, and it has not even the smallest iiummock on its surface. You may discerp
over it two high hills on Virgin Gorda, which appear like a great hummock. There is
good water on the low part, near the south point.
410
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Within the last 20 years above 50 vessels, mostly Aineiican, have been lost on this
danjierous isiaiul and the reefs surrouiidiiiij it, which has been caused by the sirnnrr
north '■'teriy current, which prevails there most of the time; its average set beiug
about e.ie knot per liour in that direction.
Those bound to St. Tliomas, or any of the islands in that parallel, will find it ncvps-
sary to take every opportunity of ascertaining; their latitude at ni<;ht, as, from tlie caustN
above stattd, there will always l)e a great uncertainty in their position.
The whole of the windward side of Anegada is bordere<i with a dangerous reef, which
thence continues under the name of the Morse shoe, about 4 leagues to the S. K.. ;\n(l
terminates at K. N. K., 7 miles from Point Pcjaro, the cast end of Virgin (ionla. 'J'hpif;
are swasluis in the reef, but on niat)y parts only 2 to () I'eet of water. Un aijproachiji:
the isle from the north-eastward, the hill on V^irgin (xorda will appear over it like a great
hiunmock, and l)y this mark the relative situation of a vessel may be known.
From the observation of R. II. Schomi)urgli, wln» has nr.ide a plan oi'this dangeroii'-
island, it appears that the greatest mimber of wrecks on Anegada occurs in tlie nioiitlh
from iMarch to .lune, and that vessels of large burden strike usually on the reefs to tln'
south-east, while smaller ones generally go on shore farther west, which he imj)utps iij
the wind which l)lows fre(juenily from S. and S. E. from March to .Tune, therehv in-
creasing the iiorlh-westeriy current, in conse(|uence of wliicli vessels bound during tliat
time for these islat)ds, are more sidiject to error than at any other period, and that li:li!
bodies being mort; inlluenced by the ciu'rent than heavy (jnes, is the cause of the small
vessels going on shore fartlicrto the westward.
FALLEN CITY, OK OLD .lERKSALEM.— A very remarkable cluster of bro-
ken rocks, to tlie southward of Virgin Gorda, bears this name. They appear to havf
been thus left by some great convulsion of natttre. To the southward of these is alar:*-
blufl" rock, called Hound Kock, ne.t to which follows Ginger Island. Between the two
latter i.s the general entrance into Sir Francis Drake's Channel, which is called the
King's Chaimel, it being the best passage inward for those bound to the Road of Tortola.
TORTOLA. — The following directions for sailing through the King's Channel k.
Tortola, have been conununicated by Mr. iJackliouse:
" To run through Sir Francis Drake's or the King's Chaiuiel, between the Round RncL
and Ginger Island towards T<irtola, so soon as yoti uiake the land of Virgin Gorda, strer
for the S. W. end of it, W. N. W, northerly; and when you are within six or seven
leagues of it, you will raise the high land of Tortola, and also the highest keys and inl-
ands to the eastward aiul southward of it; that is, beginning with the easternmost nr
Round Rock, (iinger Island, Cooper's Island, Salt Island, Dead Chest, Peter's Island.
and Norman's Island.
Having these keys in sight, steer for the south end of Round Rock, which yon can-
not mistake, for within three or four leagues of Round Reck, you will raise the low iie\;
called the Broken City, or Old .lerusalein, which keys extend from the S. W. enii ii
Virgin Gorda, in a S. S. W. direction, to within two cables' length of the north siden;
Round Rock : these keys are the more remarkable, not having the least earth or verdiii>
on them, but are merely heaps of large stones, resembling the ruins of a city or island.
When at the rlistance of two or three leagues to the eastward of these keys, bavin;
the Round Rock N. W. westerly, steer for the south side of the rock, keeping ii on
board as you run through; that is, keen about one third of the breadth of the channel
from it towards Ginger Island ; this caution is necessary in case of light winds, wlm
strong leeward currents may hurry you close to (jinger Island. The course throuilii*
nearest N. W. by VV. by compass. The Round Rock is a barren slate rock, andilip
eastern cliffs of Ginger Island are, also, full cf slate. The channel is about half a mile
over : you may pass safely within a cable's length of Round Rock, at which distance we
sounded 14 and lo fathoms, no ground.
Having passed Round Rock to the W. N. W. of you, on the island of Tortola, yo!!
will see a negro town,<t^irhite dwelling-house, and a fort. Keep to the westward of thi-
mark, steering W. by 'M.' and W. As you nui down towards Tortola, the easternnioJ'.
point of Tortola Road bears nearest west, by compass, from the Round Rock, and make-
as shown in the ])late. You may see with a glass, at the same time, the fort and flat-
staff" on the west point of the harbor, from which extends a dangerous reef: the ea.sterr.
point is a craggy blulf, with a footpath or road winding around it. The first solnulin^^
in running down, (with the handline,) were found abreast of the east end of CJingerUl-
and, 15, 1."], and 12 fathoms. 'I'lie course trom W. to W. by S., which soundings coc-
tintied nearly to the east jioint of the road.
" It is particularly to be observed, that there is a bay to the westward of Road Harl'or.
called Sea Cow, or Rogue's Ray, which, by strangers, may be mistaken for the road.as
the points make alike. Therefore, when drawing near the eastern side of Road Harbor,;
if you have any doubt, look tu the S. W. quarter, and you will see four remarkable perj
p('i)dicnlar
iii^r S. \V. I:
Mill bear lie
fliDiHS, abou
^ fa'honts, c
In the shore
til 4 f.itlionr-
ed in two o«
J'e cautions
Vou now
sliore of the
abreast of wl
jioint to the i
stalf: bring i
As yon stt
deed the mai
the fust batti
is the (lag-st;
tliegiiard-ho
ble's length f
ly. Moor wi
Jiarf your bo»
ern point of i
The inerrh
hi proceedi
nel between ti
the latter and
CUKRKN'
eurreat runs r
her zenith, an
moon pas.ses fi
according to tl
is froi'.i 20 to 4
ISLAND C
lieiclits or em
former rather (
:>"y of the Vir
shelter as any i
i" it, is a cuiii]]
"11 each side.
The followir
o( Captain IIpj
. "The east |
fortress upon it
From a httle w
with from 10 to
" With the w
of the har!)or;
point, and warp
mile within the
above that : tho
^ou anchor wit
good ground, ai;
is, at most times
"Observe, in
[Point, and two
I have less than 5
"There is a SI
hta cable's lengi
jsouth side of thi
* Mr. Lock wool
Iquick over the foul
jagp at Tortola is n
pasters of mercha
good bays."
BLU.Nt's AMRRiCA.V COAST PILOT.
411
^rn lost on this
I by the stronj
eraf;e set being
ill find it necTs-
tVoin the causes
rous reef, which
5 the S. K.. und
in(ji»>iiia. 'J'hrri;
On aiipioachi!!:
vcr it like ;> gvcai
IIONVII.
if this dans^fioii'-
irs in the nuiiiilh
n the reefs to tin-
■h he imputes i.
liuie, thereljv ii;-
lound dnvin': ili;u
0(1, and that ii:!i;
ause of the sihjH
le cluster of bio-
»v appear to h;ivp
of these is a lar:f
Between the two
i'hich is called the
3 Road of Tovtob.
King's Channel lu
n the Round Rncl
^'irfjin Gorda, stfei
vithin six or seven
trhest keys and iv-
he easternmost or
St, Teter's Island.
k, which you can-
1 raise the lowkf}-
the S. W. enil in'
f the north sideii;
ist earth or vevdui-
f a city or island.
lese keys, liavin;
rock, keepins; it m
th of the charne!
ight winds, when
course throuah i*
ate rock, and ihf
about half a mile
which distance we
d of Tortola, yo;i
le westward ofih!'
la, the easternnio^'
d Rock, and niake>
, the fort and tl;ic-
,s reef: the eastcn.
The first soundin!<
end of Ginger Ul-
ich soundings con-
dof Road Harbor.^
„ten for the road.'';
Ide of Road Harbor,;
l)ur remarkable per-'
piMidicu'ar rocks, callfd the Indians, otf tlio >J. W. end of Normand's Island, ami bear-
ni^ S. W. I)y !S. (^>'^ 'he |)lat('.) At this tiiiK^ ihe castrrnmost point of Tortola iload
will bear nearest to W. S. \V. ', \V". With this beariiiij on we sounded, and had H fa-
bout half a mile from Tortola. (Jome no nearer. We found no around, after
^xt cast with 14 (athonis of line; and, thinkioi; it hold, we I
(orrowet
tlionis, a
>* fa'hoiMS, on the u<
til the shore, havini^ the point N. N. W., but a;^ain foum! that it liad si,ddenly shoaled
ti) 4 Cithonis, then at -i cables' Icn'jth from the shore. Hauled oil" W. S. W. anddee|)en-
♦•d in two or three casts to 7 fathoms; and. at the fifth ca.st, no ground at l.j fithoins.
I'.e cautious to keep at least hidf a mile from the point.
Vou now open tin' Koad of Tortida, and keep your eye on the easternmost orweather
shore of the bay. <>n the third bliilf point in you will descry a battery, (Kort Shirlev,)
abreast of which shijjs of war anchor. Keep to the westward, until you open the next
point to
the northward of this, on which stands Fort (ieorge, or the citadel, with a (in
stall': bring this citadel, (see the plate,) north, westerly; 'hen haul in and steer lor it.
As vou steer in for the intadel on the above bearing, keep in 10 fatlioiiis of water; in-
deed the mark will lead you in 14. I'd, and 10 lathoms. \ dii anchor abreast the point of
the lirst battery, with thi' battery be:uing N. K., but tlie mark lor letting go the anchor
is the (lag-stalf of ilie battery on the west jioint of the bay, in one with the south end of
the iruard-house, which is close behind the battery :
ith 10 (athonis am: iibout one ca-
ble's length from the shore. The western l.atlery will bear nearest S. \\'. by W.wcsler-
Iv. Moor with yourstream to the N. N. K., because the ground is foul ; and. slnuld you
part your bower, your. stream will check you into the bay, and clear the reel oil' the >veHt-
ern point
)f the
roa(
The merrhant's anchorage is in from 10 to i;) fathoms, on the western side."
Ill jnoceeding outward, from Tortida, you sail outwards through the .southern chan-
nel between the west end of Normand's Island and the east side ol Flanagan, or between
the latter and the east end of St. .lohn's Island.*
CURRKNT, dec. — About Virgin Gorda, and the passage of the Virgin Islands, the
current runs regularly, setting eastward during the moon's passage from the horizon to
her zenith, and from her setting till she arrive at nadir, and to the westward while the
moon jia.sses from zenith to the horizon, and from nadir till her rising. 'J'he rale varies,
according lo the breadth of the channels, from two to (ive and a hall knots, and the rise
is I'roi-i :.'0 to 40 inches.
I.'^LAM) OF ST. .lOIIN.— This island is 2 leagues broad ami 4 in length, h:
IS no
heislits or eminences of importance. Tlie north and south coasts are elid'y, and the
former rather foul ; as is also the east coast. The island is said to be the best watered of
any of the Virgin Islands, and its harbor, called ('oral Hay, is rejiorted to afford as good
.shelter as any harbor in the West Indies. An inlet on the west, having 4 fathoms with-
in it, is a complete natural dock, where a frigate may careen or relit, lushed to the shore
on each side.
The following description ai. .marks on this place have been extracted from those
ol" Captain Hester :
"The east pomt of the harbor is called Moor's or North Point. The walls of the
tnitress upon it, which are white, may be seen from the distance of seven or eight leagues.
From a httle without iNloor's Point f]uite into the harbor, there are regular soundings,
with from 10 to 5 fathoms of w.iter.
" With the wind any deirree to the northward of east, yon may lie into the entrance
of the harbor; but if it be to the southward of K. 8. E. you must anclior without the
point, and warp in. The governor's house and part of the town are nor above half a
mile within the point on th" ei'st side; but there is a large harbor, with lagoons, 6ic,
above that: though English ships of war seldom go higher than the governor's house.
You anchor within a qutirter of a mile frtun tlie weather shore, in i) fafhoiris of water,
good ground, and run a stream anchor to the S. W. by reason of the land breeze, which
is, at most times, betwixt the S. 8. E., south, and 8. S. W. You.moor N. K. and 8. W.
" Observe, in coming in, to leave one third of the channel H>Windward from Moor's
I Point, and two thirds to leeward towards the key called Duck'Island, and you will not
ihave less than 5 t'athoins of water.
"There is a small bank, wliich does not show itself, and lies directly off fro in the ante,
at a cable's length from th e shore, with only 10 feet over it. The watering place is at the
(south side of the town, just without the south gate, but it is brackish."
* Mr. Loekwood eays, " In the passacres, and abso in Drake's Channel, the current, running
Iquick over the foul ground, causes a ripple, wliich wears the appearance of dantrer. The anchor.
jage at Tortola is not good ; and, when the convoys rendevouzcd in that neighborhood, experienced
piasters of merchantmen, usually anchored under Peter's or Normand's Islands, both of which have
Tiood bays."
412
bLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PtLOT.
If you are bound to Porto Rico from the eastward, ni2;ht corninj^ on, and you off the
E. N. E. part of St. John's, you will take notice of the eusternniost liiyli land; it
land a liltle from the east end of the isiand, which is low.
'on mav run to the w
IS ni-
est-
ward till you l^riUji,' that hisli land to bear S. by E. and then i)ring to till morning. iUn
take ^reat care that this hii;h hint! does not deceive you, for it lies a lont^ way in tiie
country, and it is ;dl low land by the water side. In the morning make sail; you niiiy
see the walls and works all white about .Moors Point.
From the south point of St. .lohns Island, called Ham's Head, to tlie entrance of St.
Thomas' Harbor, the course is about VV. live and a half leaj^ues s from the north siij(!
of Saiua Cruz, iN. N. \\. }, N. ten leagues. The latitude of St. Thomas town is 1h-
22' N.
ISLAND OF ST. THOMA.^.— Tlic eminences of this island are almost like tbcsp
of St..lohirs, and descend gently towards the shore. The entraiu'e into the iiarbor Is
Very easy and commodious ; the town has more commerce than any other of the \'ir;.'in
Islands, anil is always well supplied with evry reipiisite, being a kind of warehoiist' ur
depot of rich merchandise ; it has a regular careening place, and is defended by a I'urt
and several batteries.
In running down from St. .lohn's to St. Thomas' Harbor, you leave Bird Key to the
southward of you, and you continue your W. N. \V. course till you come down to Kink
Keys ; they are miuh lower and longer than JJird Key, before mentioned, and there is a
small opening of no coiisef|uence, between tl.em. Vou leave these keys to the south-
ward of you* about one mile, and tlien steer N. W. when yon bring them S. E. and con-
tinue that N. \V. course abcmt two or three inile.s till you bring the harbor open ; thm
haul in tor the town N. by W. ov N. N. W., giving flie east shore all along a good berth,
and run within half a mile of the fort, which is white, atid jilainly seen at the east of the
town. You anchor in 5 t'athoms w;;ter, fine clear ground ; it is a h-iC harbor, where vou
are landlocked from all winds, but tVoin the S. by \V, to the S. E, by S., which piirt lies
open to tlie sea; but the wind seldom blows in unless it is in the hurricane motuhs. Tlan
is a rock above water in the harbor's uu)Uth, (cidled I'rince Rupert's t'lilf,) wliicli ym
leave to the eastward of you ; you may make bold with the west side of it, but there is
no passage within.
From St. Thomas' Harbor, if bound to Porfo Rico, being in the offing, ste-r W. by N.
till you come down the length of the west end of the island, which is about 3 leiigues
from the harbor. Vou will see a small ishiiid called I^iltle Passage, about 4 or 5 iiiiks
to the westward of the west end of Little St. TJioinas. Little St. Thomas is a small
island, that almost joins with the west end of the Great Island ; there is a snudi openiiig
between them, but of no note. There is likewise a channel of small importance be.\»eea
Little Passage and Little St. Thomas: bnt there are two other islands before you come
down to the west end of that island. The eastermnost, just to the leeward of the har-
bor, is called Water Island, and almost joins with the main land ; about two or three
tiiiles to leeward of that, is a rocky island, about half a mile round, which lies a mile
from the shore, and is called Little Sal;:;; it is foul ail round, and must have a j;iii(!
berth. All the shore along tiiese islands must be left on your starboard hand. In run-
ning down till you pass Little Passage, you liave soundings all the way, but deep in'sonie
places.
W. S. W. A S. from the mouth of St. Thomas' Harbor, above 4 leagues, and S. ^V.
by S. ')' miles from the west point of the island, lies a lemarkabie rock in the middle of
lh6 channel. It is round, rugged, and double pointed, as high as Beachy Head, and may
be seen o or 6 leagues off. being all white ; it appears at some distance like a sail.wlieine
it has been called St. Thomas' (Jarvel or St. Thomas' Hoy. This rock is bold to all
round, aad appears at some distance like a sail, and may be seen 5 or 6 leagues oft".
* The chinnel between the main island and Buck Island, is but one and n half mile broad, and ,
at the entrance, in the fair way, lies a rock, Citliod Pncket Rock, which is a hard whitish rockyshoa!. j
the S. W, point of which, is from the flar-stafr on Mucklenfell's Raitery, (the eastern battery atiLe
entrance of the harbor,) S. 57^ E.2180 fathoms, and from the northern, or nearest point of Bucii
Island, N. 4=> E. 1050 fathoms distance.
This sunken rock or shonl extends from i'.a R. W. point in a depth from 6 fret water. E. N. E.
upwards of 1,) fathoms in length to 5 J feet — in the centre of the depth are 9 feec. From 5i feet «a.
ter it inclines a half point to the north, upwards oi' a quarter cable's length, with a depth of 12 aaj
9 feet water.
The whole shoal is consequently 1 lie above 40 fathoms in length, and has a direction of nearly
E. N. E. and W. S. W. Its position bein^'- one third the distance from St. Thonins to Buck Island.
The passage between this sunken rock and Buck Island is perfectly free, with good soundings ftuni
10 to 14i fathoms. The way to clear this shoai is to keep Buck Island close on beard.
Hen
The sfra
by which t
nets to the
that betwf
I lanagan
out of Or;
toward .S.;
sets strong
aids, (whic
way, and iri
Vessels
Key or Fre
the V^irgins
Sail Rock .
The sea
of the bree
having inor
quality of t
On the \\
mucli befiei
as Flanagaii
they do not
when it is fr
it is not mor
when these
lu/f up and
terwards, if
mouth, if it
prolong the
when far enc
rectej. If i
you may run
ly ; (or witli
no room for
W. point of
nine feet wai
foundered,
tines under t
never could s
ST. CRO
lies W. by J
full of humn
S. W. end o
the whole of
to a stranger
only at a big]
There are i
chief is Chri.<
side of a harl
The chief l
coast, under t
town, named
spacious bay.
From the t
is N. by E. ah
lies a remark;
Redondo, nea
The harbor
defended by t
the eastward,
* But, it is to
having over it oi
BLUNT's AMERICAN COASt PII.OT.
413
(1 you off tie
liinil ; it is in-
11 to the wfst-
lorniiig. Hut
"S way in tlic
ail; you may
•ntnvnce of St.
the iioiih siii(!
AS town is In-
most lil\e tliLTiP
I) the harlxir is
r of the Vir;;lri
f warehoust- or
untied by a lurt
Bird Key totlie
le down to Hink
J, and there is a
ys to the soutli-
(1 S. K. and con-
rbor open ; then
nsi a ^ood licrlli,
It the east of tlie
irbor, where you
., which part lies
months. There
UlilV,) which _V(iU
of it, but there is
g.stP'T W.by N.
s ab'jut 3 leagues
bout 4 or 5 iiiilfs
"hauias is a small
s a small opening
portance be.ween
before you come
ward of tlie har-
)()Ut two or three
which lies a niiif
must have a !;Wi(i
(1 hand. In run-
but deep in-some
igups, and S.A\.
in the middle cl
Ihy Head, anil nm
IliUea sail.wheme
Irock is bold to all
leagues off.
Llf mile broad, mi
J whitish rocky shoe!,
lastern battery at tte
larest point of Buck
I fret water. E.N.E
1 From5if«e'"'.
[di a depth of 12 aai
„ direction of nearly
Imas to Buck Wani
■good soundings ftoa
In beard.
Remarks on the Passages in grnerni, from the ^^ DerroUro cic Ins Anlillus.'^
The straits between the Dogs' Isles and N'irs^in (lorda are all excellent, and are thosd
bv which the entrance into Dr.ike's ("hanrifl is iiiinle iVom the northward. The chan-
nels to the southward are, thai between Salt ishuiiland thi; Dead ( 'hcst or Peter's Island;
that between Peter's and Norinand's islards; ;uid that between Normand's Isle and
1- lanagan Key. The pass between tlie Dead ('best and Salt l^land, when used for goini^
out of Drake's Channel, rp(|uires the breeze to be steady, tliat it pass not troiii E. S. K.
toward .S.; foroiherwise you will be apt to ^v\ entangled with Peter's Island, as the water
sets strongly towards the strait which it forms with tlie Dead C'liest, ami the swell also
aids- (which is likewise heavy, when there is a fresh wind,) as it diminishes the vessel's
way, and increases her lee-way.*
Vessels which navipate by the south of the Virs^ins, commonly pass between Bird's
Kev or Frenchiii'an's Cap and Hnck Island ; and all those who run iiir the sotitliward of
the' Virgins lor St. Juan's Head, in Porto Rico, pass through the channel between the
Sail Rock and Savanna, or Green Island.
The sea along tlie whole of the west coast of \'irt'in Clorda, is traiupiil during the time
of the breezes, and you may anchor along the uliolc length of it. in the certainty of not
having more than !(> fathoms, nor less than 8 fatlioms at a mile from the shore, and the
quality of the bottom is ( ommonly sandy.
On the west coast of Norman's Island there is a harbor, Man of War Bay, which is
much better sheltered and more secure than that of Virgin (iorila; for in it, and as far
as Flanagan Islet, the sea, during the breezes, is as calm as a bath. Within this harbor
they do not experience gusts of wind, and it also appears that the breeze in it is light,
when it is fresh outside. As the interior of the harbor is to windward of its points, and
it is not more than half a mile wide, large vessels cannot beat up into it ; and, therefore,
when these come from the noith, it is necessary that they should shave tlie point, and
lulf up and anchor in about the middle of the harbor's mouth, warping or towing in af-
terwards, if they have to midte a long stay ; for if not, they will lie very well ai the very
mouth, if it be not in the h''rricane season. On coming in from the south, they must
prolong the tack to the noi.u, in the certainty that they will find no unseen danger; and
when far enough, ihey must heave about to mamcuvre, on the south tack, as already di-
rected. If the wind with which you rtin to take this harbor should be from the north,
you may run farther in, and lie as if in a dock ; but it is necessary to furl your sails smart-
ly ; for wilh norths there are Haws of wind which might cause you to drive, and there is
no room for mana>uvring. Keep in mind that about a league to the S. S. E. of the S.
W. point of Norinand's Islands, there is a rock of small extent, which has not more than
nine feet water on it. On this rock the frigate Santa Monica struck, and subsetiuently
foundered. The situation of this rock is not well ascertained ; for, though tlie brigan-
tities under the command of Don Cosme Cluurnca made every exertion to find it, they
never could succeed.
ST. CROIX, OR SANTA CRUZ, is the southernmost of the Virgin Islands, and
lies W. by N. from Sandy Point, in St. Kilts, o.'} leagues. It is not very high though
full of hummocks, two of which, on the eastern side, are higher than the rest. At the
S. W. end of the island, there is a flat extending outwards to the distance of a iTiile ; and
the whole of the south side is bordered with reefs, which render an ajiproach dangerous
to a stranger. The island is scantily watered ; and with wood which can be procured
only at a high price.
There are two towns, one on the north and the other on the west side. The first and
chief is Christianstied, the capital of the Danish West India Islands, lying on the south
side of a harbor, protected to seaward by extensive reefs, and on the land by a fortress.
The chief town, called Christiansta^d, is situated at the bottom of a bay on the north
coast, under the cannons of a fortress which defends the principal harbor. The other
town, named Friderickstaed, lies on the west side, about half way up on the middle of a
spacious bay, wherein ships may anchor at pleasure, in froiii 3 to 10 fathoms.
From the town of Chri^.tianst;ed to the S. W. point of St. John's Island, the oourse
is N. by E. about 10 leagues. In the channel, about six miles S. by W. of this point,
lies a remarkable round rock, called Bii'd Key, which is about one quarter as large as
Redondo, near Montserrat.
The harbor of Christianstfed is difficult of access, and shoal in several places. It is
defended by the fort of Louisa Augusta, situated on a neck of land which trends from
the eastward, and by that of Sophia Frederica, situate on Loot's Key, an islet north of
• But, it is to be noted that, at about half a mile to the E. N. E. of the Dead Chest, is a rock,
having over it only 12 feet, and on which the Blonde frigate, and several vessels have struck.
^"^■*timmm,%
414
ni,U5T's AMERICAN COAST PIT.OT.
the town, undci" tlio (juris of hoth of wliicyi, vpsst'ls must pass to tlie anchoratrp. Tliis
is one of tlic hiindsoim'st towns in tlu> West Indit's; its |irin(.'ipal streets being wide,
lony, and .stiMi;;iit, and inlcr.sict eacli oilier at ri>;lil aiiiilos.
The fjreatest leiijith of St. Croix from K. to \V. is -Ji) tnilcs. On advancinjj, its nonh
side presents a eliain of cinineiiees, ahnost like those of the Virgin Islands. At about
a league to the W. N. W. of the Kast Point, and half a leajjue from tlie north coast,
there is an island named IJoUken, or (!oat Island, whieh ajipears at a distance like a p;irt
of the coast. I5etweeii this islaid and St. Croix there; is a [lassaee, but it is bad and little
frequented. The east iioint of ( !oat Island »;eiids out a reef, a mile and a quarter to the
E. S. E.; there are others stretcliiin; to the N. and N. VV.
The west coast of St. Croix is clean ; the south coast is very foul, and requires inucli
practice, either lo navigate near it, or enter into its bays, of which there are two, as shown
on the chart.
To enter the port of Christianstaul mu«h practice is required, and therefore a pilot
must be taken.
ISLANiroF S( )M I') RERO.— Between the Virgin Islands and tiiat of Anguilla, lies
a small rcx'ky island, aliout two miles in IciiLrih; it con-<ists of a very flat eminence, with-
out any hummock u|)on it, covered with birds from the southward. You cannot descry
this island farther oil' than Tj or <> iciuiics at most.
This wretcdied island is rugijcd. steep, and barren ; a liftle camphor and grass are tin;
only vegetable productions which ajjpear on its surface; the little water that lodges in
the cavities of rocks during rains, soon :'va|)orates. You may anchor on the west sido
of it. Tlie (difl's are steep to, and are from 40 to .l;3 feet hiuh. In 17'J"2 an American
brig ran against it, and her crew cre|)t Iroin her yard arm to the cliff top. The brig d's-
engaged herself, and drifted down to Virgin (jorda, where the hull and cargo became a
pri/.e to the wreckers.
The latitude of Sombrero is 1R° .33' N. and its longitude is f>8° .30' W. Two leagues
off Sombrero, when it bears from E. N. E. to K. by S., is fou:id from 3.5 to 2iJ fathoins,
uneven ground and rocky bottom. It lies about 14 leagues E. by S. from the island ol
Anegada, and V2 leagues due east from the reef lying off the S. E. end of it. In going
between the two you have .'), (>, 7, 8, and 10 fathoms of water. The course from Sruii
to Sombrero is N. W. by N. \ N., distant 20 leagues.
The passage to leeward or windward of Somiirero, is very clear and safe: there is no
swell. The winds are generally favorable for going out, and when once you are past
Sombrero, all obstacles arc at an end.
Angmlla, and the Islets in its Vicinity.
Anguilla lies E. by N. \ N., and W. by S. ^ S. above two leagues to the north of St.
Martin's; it is a low, flat and withered island, without any mountains, so that it cannot
be seen farther olf than 4 or .5 leagues. The anchoring ground is good on the south
side, because the current there has no force, on account of a long ledge which stretches
off S. E. from the east jioiiit. On the south part of the west point thtre lies, about one
mile from the shore, a small island, not above 100 fathoms in length. To the N. W. hy
W. of the west point of Anguilla, (!istant about 4 leagues, lie several small islands, the
principal of which are Dog and Prickly Pear Islands, between which is a good channel.
The first is the eastermuost ; the second, which is the la'-j'est of all, lies farther than any
of them to the west, save f. little rock that is almost joined with it on the west side. It
is about one mile in length, and has a few inhabitants. All these islands are very low,
and cannot be seen farther off than 4 or 5 leagues.
Bearings taken and Remarks made in sailing hetioecn the above mentioned Islands,
hy an experienced Navigator.
" When we came to sail so far out, I found that the highest top of St. Eustatia caine
even with the top of Brimstone Hill, and that the two southemniost noints of St. Kitts
and St. Eustatia were in one, and bore N. W. by N. At the same time Fort Tison bore
N. E. easterly, when Sandy Point, and Tuinblc-down-dick, or the northernmost part of
St. Eustatia cume in one, and bears W. N. W.
" The direct course from the west end of St. Kitts is N. N. W. to St. Martin's west
end, and so through between tlie Dog and Prickly Pear. For when you are within half
a mile of the west end of St. Martin's, the southernmost land tif St. Bartholomew comes
in one with tiie southernmost land in sight of St. Martin's, and they bear S. E. by E.
and then Saba will bear S. by W. westerly. By the aforesaid b '.rings of St. Bartholo-
mew and Saba, if you see either of them, you may by them know how to direct your
course for the west part of St. Martin's.
" Th
eriy. ^
of Dog
observe!
same tii
Tlio f(
Ani;ni
of wliicli
hill nor j
are very
and has i
\i'ry litll
still nine
of the eh
width. (
part of A I
ward of t
which the
lenirth, an
fathoms a
The ch
niiniber o
neral froii:
crease to
-Kock, lyir
The Br
a rock call
ST. M.^
vided betw
huge rock
very irregi
and as the
island, dcs
water for t
turbed, an*
virid. \V(
The prin
which has
where a gre
French qn;
The Den
consequent
P'tsly than
in the direc
called St.
fend the en
the line bet
draught go
'■"ck named
hies' length
found by br
burg Bay, n
the opposite
eastern end i
to the north
greai tamarii
to these mar
I
BI.Ui\T S AMKRICAN COAST PILOT.
415
s bclnsf wide.
L;ing, its iiorih
(Is. At ;il)(iiit
(■ north const,
Iff like ii i)iiit
>, l)',i(l and littlt;
(|uarter to the
requires much
I two, as shown
)erefore a pilot
f Anguilla, lirs
luiineuce, with-
i cannot descry
id grass are thf
r tiiat lodges in
)n the west sido
J'2 an American
The hrig d's-
cargc became a
. Two leajiues
I") to 22 lath.inis,
om the island ot
of it. Ingoing
)urse I'roin Sruii
safe : there is no
lee you are past
the north of St.
so that it cannot
lod on the south
wliich stretches
hes, about one
To theN.W.by
nail islands, the
a good channel,
farther than any
le west side. It
nds are very low,
Honed Islaiids,
St. Eustatiacame
loints of St. Kitts
Fort Tisonbore
hernmobt part of
it. Martin's west
liii are within hall
(tholoniew comes
Ibear S. E. by K.
of St. BarihDlo-
Iw to direct your
" TliP west part of St. Martin's and tlie west end of Anguilla. bear N. N. W. nnrtli-
erlv. When the N. K. part of Aniiiiilla, the north side of I'rickly Pear, and llie middle
of ])()<; Island, bc,r >ll in one, it is east ar.d west. Three imles north (d' Dog island, I
observed at noon, aui 'ound the latitude Irt" 2(i' N., and the variation 'J 3(1' K. At the
game time St. Martin's, showed itself beyond AnguilUi from K. S. K. to S. by W."
Dog Isliiiid N. N. E. distant one ienguo.
The folhuTiiig particulars of Anguilla, tVr. arc from tiie Derrotr-ro de las Aniillas, Sec.
Anuiiilla is situated to the north of ."^t. Martin's, and separated from it by a channel
of which the least width is four miles. It is extremely low, and has neither the smallest
hill nor promine.ice. Its soil is very sandy and sterile, and both fresh water and wood
art' very scarce. The town is on the east side, near the N. !■!. etui. It is verv small,
and has no commerce. The bay is simt almost i'litirely with reefs, and is theret'ore of
verv little value. To the N. E. of the ea.it end. there is an islet, An'.'iiillita, which is
still much lower. It is very clean on its south side, and has 12 fathoms water on the side
of the channel which sejwrates it from Aniiuilla, which channel is nearly half a mile in
width. On passing here, when rui'ning front windward to leeward. Anguillita seems
part of Anguilla, a. id the str between tlieni cannot be seen unti' yon are totiie west-
ward of the meridian of the former. Olf the east end of .Anguillita are four rocks, on
wiiich the sea breaks v.ith violence, but they do not le farther out than two cables'
length, and at less than a mile there are 2i fathoms, on sand, gradually increasing to ,'50
fathoms at 4 .:>iles.
The channel between St. Martin's and An7"'lla is excellent, and (it for any class or
number of vessels; for it has not less than l;) fathoms of water, and the depth is in ge-
neral from 1.3 to '20 fathoms, of sand and gravel ; and near both coasts it does not de-
crease to less than 7 fathoms, "^rhe only thing whi( h is to br- avoided is the Spanish
Kock, lying within a mile from the N. K. end of St. Martin's, on the south side.
The British brig Saltoun, ('apt. Melville, was wrecked oO'the island of Anguilla, on
a rock called (xraffan, about on;- mile from Scrub Island, east of Anguilla.
ST. MARTIN'S is divided from Anguilla by the channel above described. It is di-
vided between the Dutch and the I'nru'h, and contains a great nund)erof hills, or rather
huge rocks covered with hearh, which may be seen above 1(1 leagues o',l'. The shape is
very irregular, and the western coast is comparatively low. Ra-nsvery .seldom fall here,
and as the soil of the plains and valleys is sandy, they are consequently unfruitful. The
island, destitute of rivers, has fountains and cisterns, which afford good and drinkable
water for the planters. The air is very healthy, the shore full of fish, the sea rarely dis-
turbed, and the anchorage safe every where about the island, esj)ecia!ly with a N. E.
wind. Wood is scarce and dear.
The principal town, Philipsburg, iies on the S. W. side, in a harbor called Great Bay,
which has 8, 9, and 10 fathoms, good sandy ground. Near it are three salt ponds,
where a great quant ty of salt is made. This is the chief place of the Dutch quarter, the
French quarter being to the north.
The Derrotero says, St. Martin's has many heights and hollows, but no mountain of
consequence. On the S. W. side in riiilipsbiirg Bay, vessels anchor more commodi-
ously than in any other in the island. The town, the capital of the Dutch part, extends
in the direction of tlie shore. On the south side of this harbor stanrls an eight-gun fort,
called St. Peter's, and on the N. W. point is Amsterdam Fort. These two fort.s de-
fend the entrance. The harbor has from 3 to 4 fathoms of water, on find sand, but on
the line between the two exterior points, are from 6 to 9 fathoms, and vessels of a large
draught go no farther inward than this line. About a mile to the S. W. of this bay is a
mck named the Man of War, which has only 10 feet of water on it, and is about 2i ca-
bles' length in circumference. The point of it on which there is the least water, may be
found by bringing the S. E. point of Simsnn's Bay, which is to the N. W. of Philips-
burg Bay, on with t',e high point of the westernmost mountain in St. Martin's ; and on
the opposite direction, by bringing the flag stafl'at the (Governor's house, which is at the
eastern end of the t( wn, on with another iarge house which stands on the top of the hills
to the north of the bay. The last house may bo known by its standing to the east of a
greai tamarind tree, which is insulated and separated from the other trees. In addition
to these marks it may be kept in mind that the shoal is exactly S. 38° W., true, from
410
BLUNTS .\mi:kh:a\ coast pilot.
tlio Wliitc Piiiiif, which is the wcMi-rti point of liic buy, iuid S. fi* flO' E., true, frnni
Fort AtiMii'riliiiii. At ;i tliinl ot' u iMlih-'n ltMi:;ili :ii-i)iiiiii ihiit ruck, ur Hhoiil, (>, 7, and k
r;iih(»iin, with rocky hDttoiii. iiie loiiiid.
Dn the N. W. coast thLMc is ii bay iiiimod Marij^ot Hay, open to N. \V. winds, and liav-
iti;; a di'pth of f'ntiii I to 7 (ithoriis, on saiil : at tin- liortoiii ol' it stands the town of Mn-
rii;ot, winch l)i;lunLi;s to the Kii-nth, and which is dctfiidcd hy a tort to the iiortli of it.
'I'o the east (d tiic N. K. end ol' St. Martin's is an islet named Hat Island, which is
very bare, and siirro!inded by reefs closf round it. The chantKd hetwecn it and Si.
Martin'.s is a mile l)r>)ad and passable. The shoal named the Spanisli liock lies neaiiv
two innes to the \V. N. VV. of Hat Island. Tlii.s is a very small rock, the least water
on wliich is three feet. Wiien passini; to fiie north of llat Island, and near to it, in
order to steer to the N. W., be careful to jrive a snllicient berth to the rock. The strait
between this island and St. jrirtliolomew's, is 1(1 miles wi<le. It is without slioaN,
sunken rocks, or any other invi.sii)le dangers; but thost; bound tlirou^h i' and not dis-
fiiuMl for any of th"se island.s, ou;j:lit to leave to the south all tlie islets to the N. W. di
St. Hartiiolometv's, and to the north all those of .St. Martin's. The navisjable clianml
is thus reduced to a league anil a half in width. The ordinary depth, until touchint; tlip
islets, in from l;i to JO fathoms, but almost always ii|)i)ii rocks, and you may salely run
within half a mile of tin; islets. 'I'lie navis;ation of this channel is excellent, not only tor
those ijoin:^ from windward to leeward, but also for those bound from leeward to wind-
ward ; but attention must be paid to kee|) clear of the rock called tiie Man of War, be-
fore described.
ST. IJAIlTlIoriO.MKW'S.— St. llartholotnew's S. W. end bears from Sandy Point
in St. Christopher's, N. .t K., distant 10 leajiues. It lies K and W. and is five or .six
leagues lonj;. 'l^he middle part is very hij^h land. Its shores are extremely daiij^eroiis,
chiefly on the north part, where tliere are many rocks above and mider water, and the
approachin<; thoiTi requires an experienced pilot ; but it enjoys the advantage of havini;
a very good harbor, of an excellent hold, in which ships of any size are perfectly shel-
tered from till winds. The island of St. Hartholomew's aj'pears at first almost roiiMii,
and can be seen nine or ten lea:.'ues olf. K. A N. fourteen l agues distant from the isl-
and, lies a large bed of rocks, about '20 yards stpiare. On the west side of it is a swell,
Tlie rock is sharp pointed, and sometimes covered. When the sea falls, it i* about four
feet dry.
V^essels bound for this island from the eastward, sliould endeavor to run dowii the
south side, and keep as near the shore as possible. There are several rocks on the
south side, but all above water, and bold to, the largest of which is a long fiat key called
Turtleback. From Turtleback round Point iNegro, the coast is clear and bold.
Vessels bound in for the liarl)or should keep about 20^) fathoms from the shore, and
when abreast of the first battery, lay olf and 'on and wait for the pilot. A stranger should
not enter the harbor without a pilot, as the channels are narrow, and the winds often
bafiiing.
There are three channels by >vhicli vessels eiit^r the harbor, according to the winds,
viz: South, South-West, and North- West Channels.
The South Channel has a good depth, but it is dangerous for a stranirerto attempt, as
a rocky reef extends from the middle key, called the Saints, two thirds across the chiin-
nel ; but, should a vessel be comp'dled to run in without a pilot, keep the main shore
close aboard and anchor when within the second battery, in 4 fatlioins. With the wind
at east, the South-West Channel is the liest, and with a N. E. wind the North-West
Channel is the best, as it is tlie broadest of the three.
The north side of tlie island is perfectly safe; there are several keys and small i.-^lands,
but the channels between them are all bold and free trom danger with the wind at N. K,
I would recommend to those bound in. to run down the north side of tlie island, dou-
ble the west point, and stand in for the harbm'. The Haleine. or Whale, is a rock 15il
fathoms west from the key called the Islets, in front of the harbor, is even with the water,
and has a point standing up like the fin of a whale. Vessels can pass all around, within
10 fathoms of the rock.
On the west side of the island is the town of Gustavia, pleasantly situated at the font
of a hill, forming three different sections, and in the centre is the careenage, with
wharves all around. On the south-west side of the water are several ship wharves, with
conveniences for careening, caulking and carpenter's work well executed, and at a mode-
rate expense. The careenage can contain b() sail, and the road from 3 to 400 shippini:.
good holding ground, from 1, 2, 'A, 4, 5, and G fathoms, sandy bottom.
About the Island of 8t. Bartholomew the flood, at new and full moon, runs S. E. and
it is then high water at 1 Oh. and ;}0m. P. M. while the sun is farthest to the north of the
equator, but comes about two hours sooner in the following months, till the sun gets
farthest to the south, when it is high water at lOh. 30m. A. M.and it runs afterwards io
»
the same
make a tii
ilicst to til
chliinir am
(iiew's lies
SAIIA-
lihilf and r
>ca by vep
reiilie of I
nine miles
tricafe and
it is said
railed the I
alar cti liki
to the sDUtl
that distanc
is to be foil
or 4 faihoni
been .iscert;
THE IS
rising out o
a nearer apj
two nioiintai
r than tliat
an exhanstei
nearly on a I
The town
Lower Towi
inhabited in
town. 50 or G
in the rock.
'I'he anchf
wind blows Ii
and continiia
eastern point
mostly coarst
marks are, th
f''oni sliore ;
st'is may evei
road is much
this season, t
sijuall iVom tl
The Derro
it has, is situ;
Ijly gently, an
situated." Th
even comes to
the vessels mi
stead is from '
(ly to make sa
ly occur. Tl
danger whate»
iNEVlS A!
flistance of eij
league wide,
oiiglit not to I
shoals.
NEVIS is
^•ei-y high in tl
makes like a (■
i'. near the bot
al)le roadstead
pal town of th
As the shore
i near to them i,
BLUNT S A5IEKICAN COAST PILOT.
117
E., tnip, from
loal, «), 7, ami k
winds, and hav-
li(> town of Mii-
H' north of it.
Isliind, whi( h is
MH-ii it '.Old Si.
tofk li<"< ncnilv
the It'iHt wntcr
lid near to it, in
jcU. Thestnm
without sli(i:il-i,
1 i' and not dis-
„ ilic N. W. (,1
winahhr chaiinci
nti\ touthinii tlii>
I may saftdy run
lent, not only tur
leeward to winil-
Man of War, be-
roiii Sandy Point
and in five or six
euiely daniierous
?r water, and tlie
vantage of havinij
re perfectly slid-
rut almost routul,
tant from the isl-
do of it is a swell.
lis, it ii about four
I to run down tip
»ral rocks on the
onsi flat key called
• and bold,
(in the shore, and
A stranger should
1 the winds often
•ding to the winds,
ncer to attempt, as
a across the chaii-
-) the main shore
With the wind
the North- West
and small islands,
the wind at N. K.
the island, dou-
lale, is a rock 15d
/en with the water,
all around, witbln
■11
ituated at the foot
p careenage, with
ship wharves, with j
ted, and at a mode-
3 to 400 shipping. !
"I,
lon, runs S. E.antl
to the north of the
19, till the sun geU
runs afterwards m
flie same proportion hack again. I he winds, wiiicii are nt long ('ontiimance, .Hometinies
Illlike ;» tiilling diU'ererice. The horizon is also lowest at ilie iimi> whin the sun in far-
ilii'st to the north of the line: and .so to the contrary. The gie.jtest (.itference in the
cliliini; and (lowing is < inches ; but, in general, only 10 inches.
DANtiKKOr.S RUCK.— .S. 'A' K. Iv! miles iVoin tiie S. i;. point of ."-^t. IJaitholo-
niew's lies a dangerous rock nearly even with the water's edge.
."s.Vli.V. — The island called .Saba belongs totlie Dutch. It is very liigh, and its shores
lilnff and clean. On the .S. \V. part is ;i siniill town, built in a pliiiii, Imt hid Irom the
sea by very high hills, except to the soutliwiiid. A very high miuintaiii ciiiistiliitt's the
centre of the island. The islund appears like a steep ro''k, nl a rouml lorin ; it is about
nine miles in circiimlerence, accessible only on the south side, on which there is ,in in-
iri( ate and arlilicial path leaditig to the .summit, which admits only one man at a time.
It is said that the bottom may be seen all miiiid. ( )n the N. \\ . side iheic is a roc'k,
called the IJiaiiiond, standing at about a musket shot from the shore, and winch appears
afar elf like a sail. There is an extensive bank of soundings, extending seven leagues
to the southward and S. S. \V. of the island, as shown on the i-liart, having on it, within
that distance, from 1'2 to 17 fathoms. Heyond tiiese soiiiidings, to the south, no bottom
is to be tound. At four miles to the souihward of the ishmd tlnre is a shoal spot of .3
or 4 fathoms, on which the sea breaks, during gales of wind, but the exact spot has nut
been ascertained.
THE ISLAND OF ST. EITSTATH'S make:^ at a di.stance, like asleep rock,
rising out of the sea, and in a sugar-loaf form, ascending upwards in a round hill, but, on
a nearer approach, its figuie changes, and it appears loiige;-. The rock is composed of
two mountains, whose middle land is pretty even, 'i'lie eastern iiuuiniain is much high-
r than that to tit- N. W.; it is Indlow in the middle, the excavailon being the crater of
an exhausted volcano, which has probably coiistiiuied the island: the Ijoitoni is |)retty
nearly on a level with the town, and is frequented by . s|)ortsmen in pursuit of game.
The town stands on the south, side, and is divided into two |)aris, called the T'pperaiid
Lower Towns. The latter is on the shore ; it consists of shops and warehouses, and is
inhabited in the day only, as the inhaln 'iits pass their niglils and holidays in the upper
town. 50 or bO feet above the level of the sea, to which they ciimi) by uuans of steps cut
in the rock. The lower town consists of a single street, and is very indilVerenlly built.
The anchorage, which is off the town, is not of the best ; there is a swell when the
wind blows from the .S. E. ipiarter, and lauding is rendered very |il(icult by the great
and continual breaking of the waves against the shore. Il' bound into the road, give the
eastern point a small berth, and anchor in 12 fathoms, before the town. 'J'he ground is
mostly coarse sand and coral, and mer» liantmen buoy up their cables. The anchoring
marks are, the church bearing E N. E. or N. E. by E., about three (|uarters of a mile
('■mil sluue ; and the west end of the bay, calleil liitei loper's (.'ajie, N. W. by N. \'ps-
sels may even anchor farther in the oding. in 11 or l.j fulioiiis, similar ground. The
road is much freipieiiteil, and ships are ol'ti"i tluue, cncu in th" hurricane momlis; but in
this sea.son, the wind must be attentively observed, as, on the sinallcji indication of a
sipi dl from the southward, they should immediaiely proceed t-^i sea.
The Derrotero says, "This island shows itself from the S. W. The only hill which
it has. is situated near the S. E. extremity, and extends to tiie west, descending tolera-
bly gently, and conms down to the shore at the place where the town and anchoiage is
situated. The latter is so bad that, being open to S. and S. W. winds, (when the breeze
pvpn comes to the southward and eastward,) so mucii swell comes in as to incommode
die vessels much, and prevent landing on the sLore co.iveniently ;. the depth in tjiis road-
stead is from 7 to I'J fathoms, on sand, and vessels in i! iimsi remain at single anchor, rea-
dy to make sail the moment the wind comes on shore, which, however, docs not tVe()uent-
iy occur. The channel between it and St. Christopher's is excellent and without any
danser whatever."
NEVIS AND .ST. KITTS are high, and their eminences may be descried at the
distance of eighteen leagues; they are separated by ihe Narrows, a channel of half a
Itairue wide, but which, though there is depth enough in it for every class of ves ds,
ought not to be attempted by a stranger without a pilot, as it is obstructed by several
shoals.
NEVIS is a small island, which may bo readily known, being low on both sides, and
' very high in the middle. The to|) of the high land, which, to tliose athwart it. N. or S.
i makes like a saddle, reaches far above the clouds. ''I'he plantations are on the sides of
5 it, near the bottom. On the western side are two brooks of fresh water, and three toler-
able roadsteads, on the principal of which, near the S. W. end, is Charleston, the princi-
pal town of the island.
As the shores of the southern and western sides are very low, ships must not approach
oear to them iu the xiight, as they are not to be distinguished from the high laud behiad
418
BLUNT a AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
them. From the S. urul S. W. jioints thrre an? revh BlrotrhiiiR ofl" to the diHtanrp of
near
ly liiiir
H 111
ilf, wliii h, !>(■ cnniHc, niiiMt also t)c (•iiirlnllv imiidi-rl.
Tin' iNiiirovvi^, or Nti.ihM, hciwci'ii St. Kills iiiitl Nevift, iis rallu'r more tliaii lialf a |p;ig
I, ami lirs N. K. anil S. \V , Nc ulv in iiilil-<|ianiu'l, at the rastrrn mil, llnri' i
U(>
jroai
W
rrniarkalil*' iiii;li roi'k, called lioolo 1 laiiil ; aiiij neatly one iiiiU* ami a halt to the ^,
o( tiiis isliiml, arc two iii'.«'rs, (ailed ilie t 'ows. The channel, whic h has a depth of Uun\
3 to 12 I'athoMis, is biiweuii tla-Me rockM and St. Kitts, lor on the .southern Hide there arc
several siioals.
An extensive shoal, from a tnilo to a mile and a half in breadth, and five miles Imii;,
from N. W. to S. K., lies uiilimit (he eastern end of the Narrows. The passages m
are, ihcrelore, between lis mnlh end and ."^l. Kills. and between itssoiitli end and Nevh,
The southern hall of liic slmal, which is the broadest, is rocky, and has not, in sotni'
parts, a ureaier depth ilian 10 liii. There is also a dangerous patch of IH feet of waloi,
near the north end.
In sailin;; up to the Narrows, between this bank and the Isle of Nevis, brinsj Uonliv
Island W. N. W. and keep it so iiniil ihe ( 'ows bear S. W. by W. This leads clear df
the reef, whence ynii imiy proceed as shnwii heicaller, In saihii(i; in from the north
ward, before arrivini; at the Narrows, iiooby Island will be seen nearly in mid-way of ilm
channel. Insailint; dnwnwanls, that isle is to be kejit on the larboard side, keepini; (iKr
towards the shore of St. Kills. The sdiilh pari of Nevis, kept open to the westwanl di
Booby ishuid, will clear the reel'. The ( 'ows are also to be left on the larboard side,
keeping ovtir to tlu? shore id' St. Kitts in 'I.', '>, or t) fathoms, good {.'round.
Tlie Koad cd" Nevis is on the west side of the island. In approachins; it from llio
southward, give the Korl I'oint near Charlestmi, a berth of a mile, to avoid a shoal whitii
lies to the southward of that point ; then liil)' up and anchor in from 10 to 7 fathoin*.
good (iroiiml, with the foil bi ariiii^ S. K., the .S. K. part of .St. Kitts N. i K., distaiii'
ort' shore abiut one mile.
In runniiii; from Nevis to I'assoterrr, you w ill cross a bank, on the shoalest part m
which there are 4 fathoms, or(|uarter less 6. It i.s not quite a mile over, and its midille
lies .S.. by W. westerly from the Nag's Head, or tin soiitli end of St. Kitts, two miles.
.ST. KITTS. — The eeiilre of this islanil is occupied l)y a great number of high iiini
barren mountains, intersected by rocky |)recipices, and almost impassable, and ainou,'
which there are several hot springs. Mount Misery, which is an exhausted volcium,
whose head is hidden iii the, clouds, is the highest of all these mountains, its perpeiidicii-
lar height being .'!711 fert.f The asseniblage of hills makes the island appear, on aniip-
proach from the sea, like a huge mountain, covered with wood ; but acivancing ne;u'i,
the coast becomes less abrupt, and the ascent of the mountains, rising one above anotlier.
will be seen cultivated as high as possible. The S. E. side, on sailing along at t»o
leagues distance, appears like several detached islands. The N. W. part is the higliei.i,
but declines gradually to the sea.
The principal town is that of Ha.sseterre, on the south coast, situate at the mouth of
a river, which opens in* i a bay called JJa.sseterre Koad. Sandy Point Town, towmdj
the N. W. is also a lowu ol coiiseiinence. There is no harbor whatever, and, on ilie
contrary, a surf continually beats on the shoie, which is sandy, and prevents any treeor
wharf being erected upon it, and also makes landing always inconveni(Mit,sometiiiie.s dan-
gerous. Owing to this the iidiabilants are under the necessity of lauding and shippin;
heavy goods in the manner practisul ,it Moniserrat.
SOUTHERxN SIDE OF ST. Kl I'TS.— In sailing ofV tlie southern coast of .'^•.
Kitts, the following lands are to be particularly noticed, namely, the Nag's Head, nrsnuih
end of St. Kitts, on which there is a high hummock ; the high lanils on each ,<!ideoi'
Frigate Bay, the bay at the northern end of the isthmus which connects the norliui,
and soutliern parts of St. Kitts: Moni.ry Hill, a high mountain to the northward of the
town of Basseterre; and Brimstone Hill, another high mountain, with a s(|uare fort on
it, to the eastward of Suuly Point Town in the west.
In proceeding from tlio southern side of Nevis towards Basseterre, yo\i may cross abniik
lying off the Narrows, on which the least depth is about 4 I'athoms. It is rather iiuire
than a mile in breadth, and its middle part lies nearly two miles S. S. W. westerly 'Voiii
the Nag's Head, above mentioned. Advancing towards Basseterre, and having passed
* The Derrotero reporfa tlint there is a shoal ofT the windwarfl coast of Nevis, the situntion v.
which has not been made known ; all that is known of it being, that an English sloop toiicliedon
it at two leagues from the shore. It is added that an English ship of the line also touched iipoiis
rock, nearly two miles S. S. E. from Nevis, This may probably be the same.
tThe bottom of the great crater of MoujiI .Misery is a level of fifty acres, of which seven art
covered with a lake, and the rest with grass and trees ; amongst the latter is mountain-cabbage.
Streams of hot water, impregnated with sulphur, still issue from the fissures.
the <)oulli I
until the N;
iniii'koii th
lam ; kei'p
terre i'diiu"
then aiiclio
i/eiriiiu »<>r
sels friim tl
in iilioried
hind on eac
to ih'i'pen (i
Till' folio
nackhoiise.
point a bert
diiiii.'i'r. \
Fashion Fo
W. Vow c
Old Koad
along shore
point of the
^Hlh its lion
Slimy /'oini
it upon a win
the eastward
to ihe westw;
at alioiit a cii
l''ri'sh watiM-
tilled at the r
rocky shore.
The remar
era point a si
i:irge gully, ii
soon be oif t
by \V. half a
liere, but wat
Sandy I'oii
to the eastwa
fonseijuently
thnins, and tl
through the n
must cautiou!
In Basseter
The long |)oii
Basseterre noi
chased, water
tides none.
In Old Roa
Nevis S. E. sc
W. by N., Sto
one third of
offshore two t
them at a runt
shore.
BARBUDA
I Its highest lam
I coasts of this i
% to sound with
I tlie reef exten
continue to th
the samt kind
ward to the dis
and of a brig, v
There is "anc
ride in 9, 12 or
BLUNT S AMi:ilICA\ COAST IMLOT.
419
the di«tanrp nf
laii \y\\( ii lr;ii;up
II mil, ihiri' is a
lall to the S.W.
s ;v (irplli of I'nim
III side tlirrc iitc
five iiiilrs Idiii;,
'I'hc pnssnurs in
li fiid :u\il Nevi<<.
Iiiis not, in sdini'
18 feet of witloi,
•vis, hiinjj IlDfiliy
his lends clciinii
from till" iKirili
III mid-way of tin-
lidc, kft'pin!; ovfr
0 thf westward nf
llio larboard sidr,
uiid.
•Iiiiis?, it from tln'
^rc-id a shoal wliiili
1 10 to 7 fathom",
N. ^ v.; di»taiRM
0 shoal ("St part m
ver, and its tiiiiiille
Kitts, two miles,
iiiher of high ami
sal)lf, and aiiiiiui:
xhaustcd vohMiic
ns, its perpeiidicu-
1 appear, on an:i|)-
advancing neam.
one above anotlifr,
ling along at t«o
)art is the higliesi,
lite at the mouth of
nt Town, towards
licver, and, on ihe
)revcnts any tri't'dr
nt,somctiinPsdaii-
iding and shiprm;
Ithern const of S'.
lig's Head,ors(iiiili
(Is on each side of
nerts the nortlifi:
e northward ol tl;;
Itli a s(iuare fort on
^)U may cross a bank
It is rather imn
W. westerly 'roin
and having passed
Jevis, the situation o!
Ilish sloop touched on
also touched upon s
of which Feven m
IS mountain.cabbage.
the sonlh end of Nevis, the course will be N. \V. by N. When olf Krigale Hay, run in
iiniiltlie Nan's lie, id ajijiears to the soniliwardof the mountain in Nevis, or niitil the hum-
Diiickoii the Nag's Head appejirs on vn itii ilie so ni hern part ol the lop ol the same moun-
tain ; keep this mark on until a Hini;le tree on the green ndue behind the town of KaHse-
terre comes on with the edge of .MoiiKi y I lill, or begins in shut in behind it ; you may
llien anchor in ID or '* fathoms, mud or clay, with the fort on the east side of the town
he irini; norih, al)out half a mile distant, ami the west point of tin; bay W. by N. Ves^
sels from the westward, when bound for the road, may rim m with the single tree above
in iitidiied just open to the e;>stwaril of .Monkey Mill; and, when the points of high
land on each side of Kri'^'ate II. ly benin to shut in on each other, the water will be found
to (bi'peii from 7 to 10 (athoms, alter having passed over a rocky ridge into clean ground.
Tiic following remarks on sailing from Nevis to iJasseierre, have been made by iMr.
Uacklionse. " In sailing past the island of Nevis for I5as<eie(re Hay, give the .*>. W.
point a berth of a mile and a half, and steer N. N. W. and N. \V. by .N. and there is no
(l.in.;er. \'or. may anchor in 7, H, or ') fathom:-, of water, coarse sandy bottom, with
KasluDii l''ort bearing N. K., the Half .Moon liattery N. W. by W., and the town N. N.
W. Vow ( animt wood nor wa'er here."
()lil Road lies live and a iialf miles to the westward of IJasseterre. Tn sailing close
aloiiii shore to this place, the embrasiiies ol'ilie 'i..v bitti^ry on .Siony I'oirt, (the eastern
point of the bay,) will first appear. The town on low gi-.iiiml will then come in .sight,
uilli its lioiiscs inlerinix(!d with trees. The anchoring placi? is nearly mid-way between
.Stony Point and the town. In sailing to this spot, run first so far to leeward as to fetch
it upon a wiiiil, or nearly so; ami then siand in under easy sail, directly for the gully to
llie eastwiinl of the town ; and when the elun h of St. Tiionias, standing nearly a mih'
to the westward, is brought on with the llag-stat'' on l5riinsioiH! Hill, you tnay anciior,
at about a cable's leii'ith from the beach, in !) or 1(1 f.iiliDins. st'iny, but good ground.
Fresh water here is obtained by the casks beint; landed and rolled about 100 yards, then
filled at the running gullet, and lloated olf to the boat. There is a great surf on the
rocky shore.
The remarks made by .Mr. Mackhouse on Old Hoad, are as follows : — "(Hve tlie east-
ern point a small berth, and amtlnu- a little to the (!astward id' a red house, abreast of h
large gully, in 10, 11, or 12 fathoms of water. If you go al)reast of the Inwn, you will
soon be olf tlie bank. The mark for anchoring is Old Hoad Fori by the Red House N.
by W. half a mile, and the extreme poiiiv-i S. K. i'nd W. N. \V. You cannot wood
here, but uaterinc is extremely convenient."
Sandy Point Town lies a mile to the westward of Hrimstone Uill. OfFthis town, and
to the eastward of it, the bank is narrow, and the ground rocky: the anchoring place is
conse(|iiently to the westward, at about a cable's length from shore, in from ') to 1.3 fa-
thoms, and the mark for anchoring is, the street extenilinf; from the landing place,
tlirouQ;h the middle of the town, end on. In runnini: along shore to the anchorage, you
must cautiously avoid a reef stretciiing half a mile from Charles Fort Point.
Remarks made in Basseterre Road and Old Road.
In Basseterre, which is a large open bay, the marks of the anchorige are as follows:
The long point of Nevis .S. 8. h].. Nag's Head S. E., Hlulf Point W. l N.. the town of
Basseterre north, distance off shore half a mile, di-pth of water 7 fathoms ; wood pur-
chased, water better and easier got at Old Road, about one and a half league from hence,
tides none.
In Old Road the following are the marks of the anchorage, viz : the Long Point of
Nevis 1^. E. southerly; .Stony Fort E. S. K., the westernmost [joint of Old Road, N.
W. by N., Stony Point .S. E. ^ E. Depth of water where the anchor lay, 10^ i^athoms,
one third of a cable out — wind off the land ; 13 fathoms under the stern — west dibtance
offshore two thirds of a mile. You land your casks, roll them about 100 yards, and fill
them at a running gullet; then float thcai off to the boat. A great surf and a rocky
shore.
BARBUDA — The greatest extent of Barbuda, from S. E. to N. W. is 15 miles. —
Its highest land cannot be discerned at more than six leagues ofl". The greater part of the
coasts of this island are very foul and dangerous. In' its proximities, it is not uncommon
to sound with 50 or 60 fathoms at the prow, and have only 4 or 5 fathoms at the stern ;
the reef extends several miles to the S. E. from the island, and the rocky soundings
continue to the south as far as mid -strait between it and Antigua, where 9 fathoms, on
the samt! kind of bottom, have been found. To the N. and N. W. the reef extends out-
ward to the distance of 5 miles, and here lie the wrecks of the British ship Woolwich,
and of a brig, which was under the convoy of that ship.
There is anchorage in a well sheltered road on the western side, where ships may
ride io d, Vi or 14 fathoms of water ; or within the reef in 3^ fathoms, four miles above
' V.<*..4i>d<lMur.'l
I
' '*!
420
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Paltncto on the south-west Point. There is also ;inchoin!!;e olT the S. W. const in 5|
fathoms, sanily hottom, with Pahneto I'oiiit X. W. by W. tinee miles, and Cocoa Poi
It III' th
lit,
stunt.
the sDutli |ioint ol iiie island, jv. by S- 4 mnes distan
ANTKiCA, has, in general, a rocky siioie, anil is surrounded by many dangerous
»-eefs. The climate ot' lliis island is commonly hotter, less healthy, and the hurricanes
more frecjnent than those of 13arl)adoes. There beinj^ no rivers, and but few sprinys,
and thosi! braiUish, the inhabitants are oblijied to preserve the rain water in cisterns.
Excesssive (lronj;hts fn'(|in'nlly impede and destroy veijetation.
Antii^iia, however, derives consiilerable a(lvanl:»<;es from the circumstanee of havini-
several excellent harl)ors, particularly Knglish Harbor on the south side, which is capn-
ble of receivinu; tlie largest ships ol' war in th'.^ navy ; liere also is a dock-yard, whh
stores and all materials and conveniences for rejjairing, heaving down and careening ,siii|is.
To the westward of Knglish llarlior is the harbor of Falmontli, and to windward is \Vil-
loughby JJay. At the eastern end of the island is Nonsuch Harbor; and, on tiic noiih
side, is the town and harbor of Parkliam, dec. The coasts are, in general, very funl,
especially on the N. and N. K- whence many reefs extend otit to the distance of niure
than a leagi;.;.
The town of St. John on the N. W. side, is the capital. This town is situated on the
harbor ot' the same name, in whiili there is a sufficient depth for merchant vessels, and
perfect security in ail winds. Ships from the eastward generally make for the .S. K.
coast of the island.
Wl L L( )L'! i I IBY BAY.— The first harbor on the S. E. side is that called Willougiil.v
Bay, on the western side of whiili is a little island, called Sandy Island, environed t(i ;i
short distance by sunken rocks. From the eastern side of the bay a long narrow leei
extends more than two-thinls over the entrance, and to within a half a mile of S;inil\
Island. The passage in is therefore bct^veen the island and the reef; and even in iniii.
channel between, there is a shoal having only 9 feet over it. called the Weymouth, wliitii
lies only half a n ile from Sandy Isiaiiil. mi which the Mail Packet Maria was lost, niij
20 persons drowned, in March, I.^JG. Bet. '^en Sandy Island and this shoal, tiiere is,i
depth of 4 fatjioins; between it and the v/est e;;d of the reef there are 7 fathoms, hihI
♦he channel is wider, j^t a mile within he entrance there is good anchorage, in 4 and
6 tathoms; in going up, it is receominended to borrow toward the larl)oard shore.
EN(tL[S[T KVKBOll. — This harbor is perfectly safe, and lies close under the west
part of th? easternmost high land, so as to alt'oi'd a shelter in all winds; and ships of «;ir
<omnionly lie here during the hurricanes. In the bay without the harbor, shi])s niiiviin-
chor in 5, 6, or 7 fathoms. 'J^hey uuiA warp in, and ••annot lie excepting N. i\. E. Tiaii;
are, generally, flutterings of wiml from the higii land.
In entering the harbor, give the Old Horse Shoe, or low battery point, on the staiboanl
side, a good berth, and kee[) as nearly as possible in mid-channel, between that and tlie
Opposite point, on which stands Fort Barclay, unt'l you get into the bay on the eiisterii
side, called Freeman's Bay. Jn this bay there are moorings for shipping, and good iiii-
chorage hence up to the store-houses on the western side, in 'A, 4, and o iathoms. Tlie
water is generally smooth. It is not, however, perfectly safe tor a stranger to coiuhuii
ship in, as the entrance is narrow and rather shoal. When you arc olif the harbur, ,i
pilot, or the master attendant, will come on board.
Large ships lie at proper moorings, but small ones lie with one anchor to the E. S. E.
and the other made astern, on shore. There are four nioori> s for* ships in FreeiiKiiri
Bay, just within the harbor's mouth, the best bower to the wcjlward, and the mooiiii!;>
on shore to the eastward.
Wood and water are not to be obtained here. Yon may, however, obtain the latter at
Fahncuth, about a mile and a half to leeward. It is not very good, being soft, niuddy
and brackish.
FALMOUTH HARBOR. — To sail into this harbor, run close in towards the western
point, called Proctor's Point, and you will pass clear of a ledge of sunken rocks rallfii
the Bishops, which lie toward the middle, just within the entrance, and terminate a shoal
extending fyoin ths ^astern point, on which there is a redoubt for the protection of the
harbor; beyond these rocks there is good anchorage in from 3 to 6 fathoms water.
There is a battery on an islet within for the detence of the town, on the western side of
the harbor: beyond which there is a spi'ing of fresh water.
Vessels bound to St, John's HarboV, from the south side of the island, on approach-
ing westward, must give the coast a berth of ;{ or 4 miles, until they come abreast ni
Johnson's Point, (the S. W. point of the island,) in order to avoid the dangerous reef*
which lie about 2 miles from short/*' eastward and north-westward of that point. ]f bniimi
to the north-westward from English Harbor, the course toabieast of Johnson's Point i>
first W. by S., or W. S. W., about 8 miles ; then hauling towards the N. N. W., aiii
keeping the lead going, still keeping at the above mentioned distance frotc the island,
ftrer (or S
about 7 mi
Or, in sa
Hiirbor. ke
with the w(
bliilf land o
clear iif Jol
On the u
'■oiitliward <
tioiii a eltis
mile east ai
tliR northw;
called the I
above menti
Road, as to
clear of the
keep it on yi
of a mile fro
Should tl:
gers to go t(
avoid a reef
stand above
rent, nr tour
mav pass ch
RO.VD O
from Sandy
the south sii
wiiiei) there
called the W
The road 1
to 10 fathom
with the Shi|
the harbor E
on with the n
from 5 to 7 fa
The middle
Fort James o
the depth of'
the Hawk's P
but the easter
Ships boun
then tack, and
ward than to (
easternmost o
wards the Wa
with the midd
To sail up V
E., and keep i
At the distal
channel ; keep
the Hawk's Bi
in the day, the
Bill bears E. b
of water close i
all clear.
There is a b;
W. to the land
part of the bar.
NORTHER
Antigua are en
the land there i
ber of small isl.
The whole are
the latter, the n
ludge stretches
fathoms lies abc
BLUXT'S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
421
W. coast in !j\
il Cocoa Poiiitj
lany dangerous
I the hurriciincs
but fi'w Hi)riin;s,
ater in cisterns.
tance of hiivins;
', which is ciipii-
ilocU-yaid, with
careeiiiDf; slii|K.
'indwartl is Wil-
iid, oil tho iKinh
Mitsral, very t'mil,
hstance of iiiuie
is situated on the
haul vessels, and
Ue for the .S. i-.
died Willougliliy
d, environed tu ;i
long narrow reel
a mile of Samly
and even in inii'-
^'^eyinouth, wliitli
aria was lost, aiij
s slioal, there is,i
re 7 fathoms, hiuI
ichoraa;e, in 4 anil
)oard sliore.
ise under the west
and ships of war
jor, sliips iiuivaii-
N. iN.E. 'lime
, on the starboard
iveeii that and the
;iy on the eastern
lU'y, and good an-
) iatlioins. The
nji;er to toii(!iici:i
otif the harbor, .i
or to the E. S. E.
lips in Krecnian'i
and the moorinj;^
kbtain the latter s;
leing sol't, nuiiKly
Iwards the western
Miken rocks calleii
terminate asluial
protection of tiie
|6 fathoms water.
le western side ot
Ind, on approach-
ly come abreast "I
le dangerous reefs
It point. Ifboiiiiil
lohnson'sPoiatii
le N. N. W.,aiiJ
1 from the island, I
jteer for Sandv Island, the little island lying to the westward of St. .lohn's Road, and
about 7 miles S. by W. from .lohnson'-s Point.
Or, in sailing from oil" lMi<;lisli Flarbor, to the westward, when to leeward of Falmouth
Harbor, keep the small battery on the eastern side of the entrance ol' that harbor open
«viih the western point of the same, until you are oil" Carlisle Hay, or (Jid Road. Tlie
blulfland of English Harbor being; then kept open without that of Old Road, will lead
clear of .Johnson's Reef, in a depth of about Irt fathoms.
On the western siiie of Antigua, at about half way up, and nearly a league to the
sduthwaril of .Sandy Island, is a lame h;irbor, called Five Islands llarl)or, and so called
from a cluster of five remarkable little islands, which lie nearly in a line, about half a
mile east and west, otf the point on its ith side. About thiee quarters of a mile to
the northward of ilie harbor, and closi .n-shore, is another consi)iciious little island,
called the Hawk's Mill. When you have approached so far to Ic iward with tin- mark
above mentioned, namely, the blulf of English Harbor kept open withiiiil that of C)M
Road, as to have the Hawk's Rill open to the westward of the Kivt; Islands, you will be
clear of the reefs, and may tack up towards Sandy Island. In approaching ihis island,
keep it on your starboard bow, in order to avoid several shoals extending to the distance
of a mile from shore, to the N. W. of Five Islinds Harbor.
.Should the wind permit, you may run within Sandy Isl.ind : but it is better for stran-
gers to go to leewanl of it, at the distance of not less than two cables' length, so as to
avoid a reef which stretches from its southern side to the S. W. Be careful not to
stand above three miles to the northward of this island, lest you be caught by a lee cur-
rent, or touch on the shoals which lie to tlie northward. Ry keeping in lo fathoms, vou
niav pass clear of the island in the night.
ROAD OF ST. .JOILN'S.— This roadstead lies about l.V mile east, a little northerly
from Sandy Island. It lies in lat. 17^ Id', or very nearly so. The western point, on
the south side, which forms the bay, is called the .Ship's .Stern, at about a mile north of
which there is a dangerous ledge of rocks, with not more than '.i I'eet water over them,
called the Warrington. Here are breakc-s in a wind.
The road lies to the southward of the Warrington Rocks, and has a depth of from 6
to 10 fathoms. The anchorage, which is 2 or iJ (;ables' length within the rocks, lies
with the .Shijj's .Stern S. W. by W. ; Fort .Tames on the north point of the entrance of
the harbor E. S. E. : and the Warrington N. by. W., or with the (lag-staffof Fort .lames
on with the north side of the island in the harbor, called Rat Island, where there are
from o to 7 fathoms water, and good holding ground.
The middle of the Warrington Rocks lies with the northern i)art of the buildings on
Fort , lames on with Rat Island above mentioned. Close to the westward of them, in
the depth of y liithoms, the largest of the Five Islands appears ojien to the westward of
the Hawk's Bill. The vvestern part shoalens about a caljle's lengtli t'rom the breakers,
but the eastern part is bold to.
Ships bound to the road stand on upon a wind fr>; half a mile above Sandy Island;
then tack, and run close in to the .Ship's .Stern; but be sure not to yet farther to wind-
ward than to open the Hawk's Bill without tlie land, or to bring il in a line ^vith the
easternmost of the Five Islands. Wlien thus fat in, if standing to the northward to-
wards the Warrington, you must tack so soon as the Hag-staH'of Fort James appears ou
with the middle of Rat Island.
To sail up within .Sandy Island, bring the westernmost of the Five Islands N. by E. J-
E., and keep them open on the starboard bow, which will lead clear of danger.
At the distance of a mile from the westernmost of the Five Islands, you will be in the
channel; keep Sandy Island, as before mentioned, on the starboard bow, until you open
the Hawk's Bill, and then lulf. The eastern side of .Sandy Island is nearly boid to, and
in the day, the shoalings may be seen. The .Ship's .Slern is bold to. After the Hawk's
Bill bears E. by .S. you may haul up as near to it as you choose, there being 11 fathoms
of water close to it. In steering for the harbor, keep along the south shore, which is
all clear.
There is a bar at the entrance of tlie harbor, which stretches from the north side S.
W. to the land on the south side. The deepest water, 14 feet, is on the southernmost
part of the bar. The dejith on the northern part is about I'J feet.
NORTHERN SIDE OF THE ISLAND— The northern and western coasts of
Antigua are environed by numerous reefs, (as shown on the chart,) between which and
the land there is a good channel for shipping. At the N. E. part there are also a num-
ber of small islands, of which two or three of the outermost arc called the Bird Islands.
The whole are encompassed by reefs, which render them inaccessible to shipping. Of
the latter, the northernmost is a narrow leilge, part of which is sometimes dry. This
lodge stretches N. E. about a mile from the northernmost Bird Island. A shoal of 3
fathoms lies about three quarters of a mile to the northward of the end of the ledge, be-
.^A^I^>M>
422
nHJNT^S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
tweeti whicli atir] the Bird Islands Reef there .is a clear channel of 8 and 6 fathorns.
The white water from tlie shoal may frequently be seen at the distance of a mile and
a half. *
The HARBOR OF PARHAM lies at the distance of 2 miles westward of the Bird
Islands Ledge. This harbor, though lajge, will admit small vessels only. The town
is situated on the south side of the harbor.
A little island, called the Prickly Pear, lies off the west point of the entrance of Par-
ham Harbor, and about 4 miles due west from the north end of the Bird Islands Ledf;p.
In advancing towards tliis island, and thence to Boon's Point two miles to the westward
of it, be sure not to get over to tlu; northward, as the retfs on that side are extremely
dangerous, and in some parts, not more tlian a mile from I'.ie coast.
From Boon's Point to go clear of the Warrington lioc'.is, on the northern side of St.
John's Road, the course and distance are W. S. W., southerly, 4 miles.
I'he NORTHKllN LKDiUvS olF the north coast of Antigua, commence with the
rock called Addison's RocU on the cast, and terminate with tiie reef called the Diamond
Reef on the west. Addison's Rock is a shoal, having on some parts only 4 feet ofwa-
ter, and lying nearly north of the fort on JJarnai le Point, upon the western side of the
entrance to Parham Harbor. It has a depth of about 3 fathoms around it. Within a
short distance, N. by W. westerly, from Addison's Rock, there are two other shoals (j|
about 3 fathoms; and half a mile thence, west, is a reef, soinetimes above water, ami
called the Horse-shoe. Tiiis reef bears north, one mile and a quarter distant from t!ie
Prickly Pear, close to the westward of the Horse-shoe, and between it and the great
cluster of reefs which stretch to the westward, there is a channel of 5 (athoms.
At a short distance to the westward of Beggar's Point (the point (o the southward of
the Prickly Pear) there is a wind-mill ; and at the distance of one third of a mile to the
S. W. there is another. These mills form the mark for sailing through the channel op
the western side of the Horse-shoe ; and steering S. by VV. between them, will lead a
vessel through.
A small dioal of only 5 feet of water, lies S. W. by \V. at the distance of nearly a mile
and a half from the Horseshoe, and nearly at the same distance N. W. by W. from iLe
Prickly Pear. There is also a slio'! stretching half a mile from the western side of the
Prickly Pear, which may be seen during the day.
Capt. Bradshaw has observed, that there are so many shoals and rocky spots witliout
the great reefs above mentioned, that it is dangerous to come too near. That, in |)ar-
ticular, called the Diamond, lies a mile to the west of the reef, and in the channel be-
tween you have G and 5\ fathoms. You will be in this channel whilst you keep the
western side of the leeward Sister in a line with the flag-staff of James Fort. The Dii-
mond is of a circular form, and one mile in extent : the depth of water over it is tVoni l
to y feet. To avoid it, when coming in from the N. W., bring the Ship's .!>tern to bear
S. by E. bcff"-p you haul up with the fort, and then look out for the Warrington Rocks,
If the wind will .serve, you may pass close to the westward of the westernmost Sistfr,
and you will thus weather the Warrington, which bears north, above a mile from the
Ship's Stern. The westernmost part shoalens from the breakers a full cable's lengiL,
•but to the eastward it is bold to.
liemarks on the Coast, oj Antigua.
[From the Dcrrotero de las AntiUa?,]
On approaching Willoughby's Bay, upon the S. E. coast, great caution is required,
<n order to avoid its rocky shoals, and a pilot will be requisite for strangers who enter
here.
From this bay the coast to the westward continues very clear, and in it you will seen
find ENGLISH HARBOR, which is an excellent port, having a dock-yard and careen-
ing place for vessels of any size. The straight of this harbor is about a cable's length
in width, and in the middle of it there are from 4 to 5 fathoms, and 3 fathoms at a quar-
ter of a cable ftom the points. After English Harbor, that of FALMOUTH follows,
and thence the coast begins to be foul, sending out to more than two cables' length iVoiii
it, very dangerous rocky reefs. Thus it continues to CARLISLE BAY, or the UIJ
Road. From Carlisle Bay to .Johnson's Point, the south-west point of the island, the
coast extends to the north, but has a rocky shoal, of the length of!i^ miles, which hesa:
a mile and a half from the coast. Between this slioal and the coast there is a passagefii
for any vessel, but it ought not to be attempted without a pilot.
From Johnson's Pctint the coast continues to the north, to the FIVE ISLANPv
on the south side of the harbor of that name ; ^nd another shoal of rocks and sand n
tends between these points, which Ues about a mile and a half from the coast. Tk
vdepth between '4 very unequal, and the navigation therefore dangerous.
From the
(he north \)
point, is the
between th<
ai;d its edg
the west of
;i mile in exi
Two mile
whicli are tl
IS a fort.
Between
the rocky si:
feet of water
The town
tal of" the isle
guide any on
noticed : it is
side, and din
most points,
westernmost
with which c(
a shoal of sai
if the wind ai
side of Sandy
may keep cle;
and the Ship'
yon can ; and
is very clean,
nearly south f
tlie coast, the
follow the tad
the coast to th
continue beati
Fort bears eas
until you are
clean.
h\ when to 1
S. E. of Sandy
bears east, sout
you can weatlu
in as above stat
ton, and on the
To proceed t
to the rocky sh(
ridian of the A^
tant from the ^
about N. W. by
towards east, ai
bear S. E. by S
destination.
If, having ma
to steer true wet
about four mihs
towards it, unti
■'^tcer Jbr Ship's
s Hamilton, you i
;■ anchorage.
I The channel I:
I the least danger.
I The channel b
I particularly betv
i through it, beca
"iiid ; and as the
:i'i anchor canno
diiven upon the 1
[prevail here.
id 6 fathoms,
:.f a mile and
•d of the Bin]
y. The town
trance of Par-
slands Ledgt-.
the westward
are extremely
ern side of St,
lence with tlie
1 the Diamond
ly 4 feet of wa-
tern side of tlie
I it. Within ;i
other shoals oi
)0V( water, and
listaiit from tbo
and the gieai
thorns.
he southwani of
of a mile to the
. the channel op
iiera, will lead a
; of nearly a mile
by W. from ilii;
jster.'i side of the
ly spots without
That, in par-
the channel be-
st you keep the
ort. The mi-
over it is iVoni 1
p's Stern to bear
rrington Rocks.
ternniost Sister,
a mile from ihe
11 cable's length.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
423
lition is required,
ingers who enter
■1 it you will sncr,
lyard and careen-
a cable's length
Ithoms at a quar-
[OOTH follows,
jbles' length iVoiu
PAY, or^heUlJ
jf the island, the
liles, which lies at
|re is a passage fit
IVE ISLANI'>
Icks and sand fy
Ithe coast. 'Ihc
From the Five Isles the coast forms a great hay, named Five Islands Harbor, of which
the north point is called Pelican Point. At about two miles to the N. N. E. of this
iKiint, is the point called the Ship s Stern, whicli is the S. \V. point of S>. John's Bay.
Hetween the two points is a sand bank which extends out above a mile from the coast,
and its edge is nearly on the mrridian or soiilh of Sandy Island, an islet two miles to
the west of the Ship's Stern. A reef surrounds Sandy Island, and is three quarters of
a mile in extent from N. E. to the S. W.
Two miles to the N. E. by N. of the Ship's Stern are two islets, named the Sisters,
vhich are three quarters of a mile N. W. by VV. from Corbizon's Point, on which there
IS a fort.
Between the two Sisters and Sandy Island, and just within this line of direction, is
tlie rocky shoal called the Warrington, which has in its shoaler part not more than 3
feet of water.
The town of St. .Tohn, situated at the bottom of a bay of the same name, is the capi-
tal of the island, and centre of its commerce. We therefore give directions which may
duide any one to the anchorage. The north coast of this island is very foul, as already
noticed : it is therefore more advisable, on advancing, to make the island on the south
side, and direct your course so as to pass about two miles to the south of its southern-
most points, and continue steering true west, but nothing to the north, until the
westernmost part of the Five Islands bears north, when you may luff up to N. N. W.,
with which cours'i you will pass about a mile from the outermost part of the Irish Bank,
a shoal of sand and rock, and you will follow it until the Five Islands bear east, when,
if the wind allows, you will steer so as to pass about two cables' length from the S. E.
side of Sandy Island, taking care not to pass to the eastward of N. E. by N., that you
may keep clear of the sand baidv, which extends from the coast between Pelican Point
and the Ship's Stern, until Sandy Island bears north, when yo>i may lulf to the wind all
you can ; and, if you can, pl.ice the vessel's head towards the Ship's Stern Point, which
is very clean, and follow on towards the road within, and anchor in o or G fathoms water,
nearly south from the Warrington Shoal. If, when passing between Sandy Island and
the coast, the wind will not permit your approach to the Ship's Stern Point, you may
follow the tack until Fort Hamilton, which is the middle one of the three standing oa
tlie coast to the north of the town, bears east ; then go about on the other tack, and
continue beating, taking care not to prolong the north tack mure than until Hamilton
Fort bears east; or go about even rather sooner; but the south tack you may follow
until you are within a cable's length of the shore of Ship's Stern Point, for it is very
clean.
If, when to the west of the Five Islands, the wind will not permit you to pass to the
S. E. of Sandy Island, you must steer to the north until the north point of Sandy Island
bears east, southerly, and then you will haul by the wind, and prolong the stretch imtil
you can weather Sandy Island on the other tack, and having weathered it, yoti will beat
in as above stated, that is, on the north tack, until you are nearly west of Fort Hamil-
ton, and on the south tack, to within a cable's length of the coast, near the Ship's Stern.
To proceed to the northward, from the road of St. .Tohn, it is necessary to give a berth
to the rocky shoal called the Diamond, and others, which extend west almost to the me-
ridian of the Warrington, and the northernmost part of which is nearly five miles dis-
tant from the Ship's Stern Point. To effect this, you must steer from the anchorage
about N. W. by N., but nothing to the north of that, until Sandy Island bears from south
towards east, and then you may steer uurth, which you will continue until the Sisters
bear S. E. by S., when you may haul to the wind, and pursue your rou.e, according to
destination.
If, having made the north part of Antigua, you wish to anchor at St. .John's, you ought
to steer true west, passing outside of all the shoals ; that is, avoiding the north coast by
about four mihs, until Sandy Island bears south, a little easterly, when you may steer
towards it, until you are due west from the northernmost land of Antigua ; thence
steer (r,\- Ship's Stern Point, and so run, until, being something to the south of Fort
.. Hamilton, you luay haul by the wind, or shape the most convenient course to gain tho
; anchorage.
The channel between Guadaloupe and Antigua, is most excellent, and does not oft'er
the least danger.
The channel between Antigua and Barbuda, on the contrary, is, at times, dangerous,
particularly between May and November, during which season, no or,e should pass
through it, because there are many calms in it, alternating with very her.vy squalls of
wind ; and as the depth of the channel is "so unequal, and the bottom froqjently rocky,
an anchor cannot be let go when the calms come on, and the risk is incurred of being
I driven upon the rocks, either on one side or the other, by currents that may occasionally
fprevail here.
424
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
MONTSERRAT ANT3 rvEDONDO.— There is no hnrhor in the isl:ind of Monf-
sonvit. iin'l the jrreatpr part of the coast is so encompassed with rocks, as to render rid
ing
danaerous, in case of a hurricane or tornado. The principal roadstead is off the town
and there are two others shown in the chart, namely. Old Road and Ker's Bay; but iri
all these a surf beats continually on the shore. Large heavy goods are therefore landed
and shipped by means of a boat, called a Moses, manned by expert rowers, who, when
tlipy see what is termed a lull, or abatement ofthe surge, push ashore, and lay the broad-
side of the Moses on the beach, so as to roll out or admit the hogsheads, <S:c. (Cotton,
rum, and other comiiu)dities, which will bear the water, are generally floated oft" or
ashore.
It has been recommended to those who lie near this island, when the st ite of the at-
mosphere indicates an approaching tornado, to get under way for Antigua or St. Chris-
topher's, according to the wind and other circumstances.
The Spanish description says, " Montserrat, which lies nearly S. S. E. and N. N. W,
is a great rock formed by two mountains. The N. E. part is remarkably high, scarped
or clirty, and clean. The island has not the smallest bay, nor any breakers, except
ihey break u[)on the very shore, which you may come so near as almost to touch it with-
out the least risk. The N. W. point is also high and scarped, (or cliffy,) and blurt;
The highest parts of the island may, in clear weather, be seen at the distance of fifteen
leagues. The S. E. partis higher than the N. W., but it has a gentler declivity, and
where it joins the sea, is rather low; the south part is also very clean; but when the
breeze south-easts, the sea breaks upon it with much force. The road is an opening of
some depth, which affords shelter only when the breeze is N. E. This renders it im-
possible for large vessels to anchor in it, and none frequent it but some small ones, to
carry away the produce of the island, which they take to Antigua.
REDONDO, which lies three leagues to the N. W. from the north end of Montset-
rat, is a very high, round, barren, and uninhabited rock, having the ajjpearance of a
hay-cock, and which may be seen from the distance of 9 or 10 leagues. There is an-
chorage on the west ■^'ule of it, in the depth of 11 fathoms. You may approach the isle
on either side, it being steep to. On the S. E. side is a little islet, called the Pinnacle,
which is nearly joined to the land.
AVES, OR BIRD'S ISLAND.— This little solitary isle, which takes its name from
the multitude of sea fowl with which it is always covered, lies, according to the Spanish
chart, in lat. 15° 50', and long. 6;}° 43'. It is extremely low, and surrounded by a sandy
beach. In the middle it is somewhat higher than at its extremities, and has some trees.
There are reefs on its S. E. and N. W. sides, which extend out to a short distance, and
on which the Sea always breaks. The length is about three cables, from N. to S., and
nearly the same from E. to W. The height is about 12 or 15 feet above the level of the
sea. At the western part of it there is good shelter from the sea, where a vessel may an-
chor in 10 or 12 fathoms of water, on a sandy bottom. This island may be seen, in a
clear day, at Sh or 4 leagues off, but the flight of birds, at the setting of the sun, will al-
ways point out its sifaation.
Father Laval says, that there is anchorage on the S. W. side, at half a pistol-shot
from shore, in .3.^ fathoms, white sand. He adds, there is neither pond nor a spring' of
fresh water on the island : but, it is supposed, that by digging at the distance of 150 or
200 paces from the shore, water might be found.
On the west and N. \V. sides, are two islets or barren rocks, \»hite with the dung of
birds, which resort there. These islands are connected to Aves by shoals and breakers,
which may be seen.
Mr. James Finlaison (M. R. N.) describes the Isle of A^es, as follows: — "The Island
of Aves lies in lat. 15^ 40' N. long. 63° 33' W. variation 4° 20" E. it is a low small island,
about three-quarters of a mile in length: you will not see it farther oft" than six or eight
miles; broken water extends from both ends of the island, about half a mile from it,-
Ships must be careful that they keep near the parallel, in the night-time, as it is impos-
sible to see it, being so very low; there is a slight covering of grass on the top."
The position of Aves, as given in the French Tables, is 15° 30' 18" N. and ClP :'>i'
17" W. The mean of the three statements is 15° 40' N. and long. 63"^ 38' W. A posi-
tive determination seems to be still a desideratum.
GUADALOUPE. — The form of Guadaloupe is very irregular, as shown by the Chart,
and 'he land is divided into two parts by an arm of the sea, called the Riviere Salee, or
Salt River; a stream diminishing in width from 50 to 15 fathoms, and of which the
soundings are in some places deep enough for a ship of five hundred tons, whilst, in
others, there is scarcely water enough for a bark of fifty. The length of this strait ij
about two leagues, and no scene can be more pleasant than the passage ; the water being
clear and snU, and the banks on each side lined with mangroves and pal ettoes, which
aflbrd excellent refreshment, and shelter from tLs heat.
The wesi
pans, by a
indeed, thai
covered wit
air, a moun
height, abo^
with sparks,
iVuitfiiliiess
The easte
been so inu(
level, but it
mate so heai
ab.e trade.
Tlie chief
near the sou
Tile Engl
part of the S
by S. : Moil
Rasseterre 13
The Flore
in 7 fathoms
tlie following
the church >
the souflierni
Should yo
weigh at nigh
it may carry
the sea-wind
the baffling w
there is a sm;i
Head ; it appi
within it.
This island,
twenty league
hoats and cane
is subdivided i
west Basseter
ern part of Gr
which separate
vessels which
necessary to h
the town of St
ward and eastv
On the S. \
most consider;
why it is gener
teied roadstead
at two cables' b
good, and thes
one anchor in i
you may be reii
j. From the ai
I you choose, so
I extremity of th
I Every one be
I commercial por
I two miles of the
and Bay of Fe
pilot to carry yi
On this coast
9oise, and the s
town, a little inl
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
425
?l:ind ofMont-
o render ruling
is oft' the town,
•'s Bny ; but in
lerefore landed
ers, who, wlipn
i liiy the broad-
s, Ace. (^ottnn,
ly floated off or
state of the at-
la or St. Chris-
l.andN.N.W.
ly high, scarped
)reakers, except
to touch it with-
;liffy,) and bluff.
stance of fifteen
;r declivity, and
1 ; but when the
is an opening of
is renders it im-
ne small ones, to
end of Montspi-
appearance of a
s. There is an-
approach the isle
led the Pinnacle,
<es its name from
ng to the Spanish
unded by a sandy
id has some trees.
lort distance, and
•cm N. to S., and
Ivethe level of the
[e a vessel may an-
nay be seen, in a
f the sun, will al-
, half a pistol-shot
Ld nor a sprin;^ of
lislance of 150 or
with the (lung of
loals and breakers,
Lg : " The Island
la low small island,
■ than six or eight
a mile from it.-
ie, as it is inipoj-
Ithetop."
N. and 63' "s'
38' \V. A posi-
[own by the Chart,
1 Riviere Salee, or
md of which the
led tons, whilst, iu
]h of this strait 1!
the water being
Ipa.
-ettoes
, which
The western division of the Island, which is the most important, is divided into two
parts, by a ridge of very hii^h rujJijed nu)untains, extending north and south ; so high
with spiUKs, visioie III lae iiigin. r rom iiie iiiuuiuciiiis now iiiaiiv siie;
jVuitfuliies.s into the jilains, and attemper the burning air of the climate.
The eastern division of the island, distinguished by the name of (irand Terre, has not
i)censo much favored by nature as the western part; indeed it is less rough, and more
level, but it wants springs and rivers; the soil more sandy is not so fertile, nor l? its cli-
mate so healthy. Its principal town, Port au Petre, or {St. Louis, is a place of consider-
able trade.
The chief town of (luadaloupe is that named Basseterre, situated on the west side
near the south end of the island.
The English ship Temple, i)eing at anchor at Basseterre Road, had the westernmost
part of the Saintes, and some part of the western side of Dominica in one, bearing S. E.
by S. ; Montserrat, at the same time, bore N. W. northerly, and the westernmost part of
Basseterre Bay N.. W. by N., distant one mile.
The Flore, French frigate, being moored N. N. E. and S. S. W. in this road, in 1772,
in 7 fathoms, sandy ground, and the small anchor in 37 fathoms, similar ground, had
tile following bearings by compass : — 'J'he fort to the S. W. of the town, S. E. by E. ;
the church N. E. ; the N. W. end of the town N. by VV. ; Point Irois N. N. W. ; and
the southernmost point of Dominica S. E. by 8.
Should you be bound from the road of Basseterre to Antigua, the best way is to
weigh at night, and sail at such a distance from the shore as to kee]) the land wind, that
it may carry you to the northern part of the island by morning, whore you will have
the sea-wind to carry you across. Should you act otherwise you may be caught by
the baffling winds from under the high hinds. Oft" the N. W. Point of Guadaloupe
there is a small but remarkable high rock, called Tete a la Anglois, or Knglishman's
Head ; it appears grey, and particularly distinguishes this coast, and tliere is no passage
within it.
Remarks on Guadalonpe.
[From the Dcrrotero de las Antillns, &;c.]
This island, the mountains of which may be seen in clear weather at the distance of
twenty leagues, is divided into two almost equal parts, by a channel navigable solely for
boats and canoes. The eastern i)art is named (iRAxND TERKE, and the western part
is subdivided into two, by the mountains ; the east being named Cabes Terre, and the
west Basseterre. The capital of this island is St. Louis or Point a Petre, on the west-
ern part of Grand Terre, and at the south entrance of the Riviere Salee, or channel,
which separates it from Cabes Terre. The anchorage of Point Petre is sheltered, and
vessels which have to remain at Guadaloupe winter in it. In the hurricane season it is
necessary to have a pilot to take this anchorage. If bound to it, you proceed towards
the town of St. Louis, taking ca.-e not to get to the west of it, but keeping to the south-
ward and eastward, that is, you must make il to the N. W. of you.
On the S. W. point of Basseterre, stands the town of the same name, which is the
most considerable in the island, and the centre of its commerce. This is the reason
why it is generally resorted to. The anchorage here is a very incommodious uii-hel-
teted roaflstead, where there is a constant swell : its bottom, at the edge, is so steep, that
at two cables' length from the shore, there are 80 and 100 fathoms. The ground is not
good, and these circumstances make it necessary to kee]) close to the shore, and let go
one anchor in -20 or ;UI fathoms, on clay, and hatig to it, without letting go another, that
you may be ready to make sail the moment that winds from the S. E. quarter co ; on.
From the anchorage of Basseterre you may approach as near to the west coast as
you choose, so far to the northward as the hill named (iros Morne, which is the N. W.
extremity of this part of the island.
Every one bound to Guadaloupe ought to make the south part of it, for tlie principal
commercial ports are on it. If bound to Point a Petre you ought to approach within
two miles of the south coast or Grande Terre, and continue at that distance to the Point
and Bay of Fergeant, on which is the town of St. Louis, whence you ought to 'ake a
pilot to carry you into Point a Petre.
On this coast there are two roadsteads, with towns at them, the first called St. Fran-
9oise, and the second St. Anne's. Between the last and Fort Louis there is another
town, a little inland, named Le Gosier, which is nearly north from an island of the same
54
426
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
name. From this ialet to the west, in about two miles .if the coast, arc (> or 8 fatliomj
of water.
Ifbouiidto Fort Royal or Basseterre, direct your course sous to approach Cnbrs
Terre about Point St. Siuiveur; then follow the coast, at the disfanee of .\ mile or tliern-
abouts, and pass about half a cable's length from Point du V^ieux Fort, or Old Fort
Point, which is the southernmost point of Petit Terre, and lulf up ii'in.ediitely when
round it, in order to keep at ihe same distance, of ha'f a cable's length from the -joast,
until you are opposite the town, where yon must anchor.
It ought to be observed, that when sailinj; either to ihe northward or southward, to
leeward of Guadaloupe, you ought to keep within two miles of the shore, as by doini,'.si),
you may have the advantage of a light land-breeze, which will be almost always suiTi-
cient to' pass it before day ; but, getting jirther off the coast, it is no uncommon thing
to be four or five days aiisolutely becalmed. Any one who is not able to get near the
land of Guadaloupe,' that is, within the distance of two miles, must positively pass at 7
or 8 leagues from it to avoid the calms.
POINT PETKH. — Point Chatteaux, the easternmost land of Guadaloupe, is com-
, sed of irregularly shaped rocks, some of which appear ready to tumble over into tlio
wa^or. From this point you may keep down the south side of the island, within about
two miles of the shore, until you jiass an island called Le Grosier, which "s the first
island you coino to, and betveen which and the main island there is no passage, nml
only a small opening. From this island to I'car the hari)or, you may go along in the
edge of the while water. When up with Isle Le (Trosier, you will discover a build-
ing, on a hill near the water, which is called a fort, although it has not much the ap-
pearance of one. About a mile, or a mile and u half from the fort, is the entrance to the
harbor of Point Petrc. In sailing along here, you will, if not too far o(f shore, observe
an island so low that the mangrove bushes appear to stand in the water, from which a
reef extentis oil' some distance to the westward. A little to the westward ot' the last is
another island, larger and higher, with cocoanut-trees and soiue houses on it, where the
pilots slop, from which a reef extends oil' in an easterly direction. Between those two
reefs is the entrance to the harbor. A little inside the low island are several large stpiare
buoys, near which you pass, leaving them all on the starboard hand. There ?re icvprrti
islands to the westward of tliose already meii'ioned, among and around which thegroiiiid
is foul, so that vessels lying off and on should i."ej. to windward.
While I was on shore my mate soun<led in three fathoms, on a small piece of shoal
ground, nearly S. by E. from the entrance to the harbor. Point Petre is one of the best
in the West Indies, and pilots are readily obtained.
THE SAImTES, MARIE-GAL ante, DESIRADE, &-c.~These islands are de-
pendencies of Guaualoupe, from which island Marie-Galante, tlie principal, is 11 miles
distant. The channels between them are generally clear and deep.
THE SAINTES.— The assemblage of little islands, called the Saintcs, or All Saint?,
were so denominated from h iving been discovered by the Spaniards on All Saints' day.
Th-^y are all bold to, and so happily arranged as to form as fine a road for shipping as any
in ine neighborhood.
The two largest islands are called Terre d'cn Haut, o" the Upper Land, and Terre d'en
Bas, or the Lower Land. The first is the easternmost, and contains the town, or rather
village, which is situated about halfway down, on its western side. Between this town anih
small island (o the N. W. is the anchorage, which is nearly half a mile broad, and has
a depth of l(j to 14, 10, and 6 fathoms. On the Terre d'en Bas is a neat wooden church,
with two convenient creeks for anchorage and landing.
The islands have constantly a fresh bree/e, let the wind blow from what quarter it
may.
On the S. W. side of the upper island is a mountain, called Mont de Filles, the sum-
niit of which is 813 feet above the level of the sea, and which is therefore a proper sta-
tion for a signal post. To the N. W. of this mounttiin, on the north coast of this island.
is a remarkable promontory, called the Sugar Loaf, which serves as a guirle to ships
coming in from the northward ; for bearing S, W. by S. it leads between a rock, callfd
the Whale, and a bank lying more to the north-westward, at the entrance of the channel,
within which ships may haul round to the road.
In passing out hence t > the westward, keep over towards the south shore, in orderto
avoid a shoal which lies a!, tlie distance of a cable's length from the south point of the
island to the north-westward.
It is said that there is a sunken rock lying a mile and a half to the northward of these
islands, of which the particulars are unknown.
MARIE-GALANTE. — The land of Marie-Galante is of moderate height, and if rises
gradually towards the north. On the south and eastern sides are several sunken rocks
and dangerous reefs, some of whl-ch extend nearly a league to sea ; but the western side
i? a fair sin
is protectee
Along th
pica! 'lirds.
tii)ii. It h;
ponds ol (i'c
DE.>^IK.
wood iuid fi
E. N. K. an
prow, and tl;
wliite broke
side there ai
There is
ing netir the
out for a cle
south, eastei
(iuadaloupe,
are L'2 and
PETITE
nel. It lies
lante and the
ingbv Petite
DOM INK
age along tin
eriv winds as
the chief
island. In its
Between 3 ;
from the famo
the depth of w
rividets runnii
come to anchc
ter, for which
Scot's Head
a fJag-stalf on
The town ol
readily diecern
bay off the soi
called W-:odbi
with the luiddl
nearly opposite
The course
seventeen mile
BARB A DO
badoes, you m
will then carry
l-'oard side, ha'
bluf^' making li
bay ; turn into
of a large river
a small river, w
is another rivei
but in 10 fathoi
The north }:
Prince Rupert';
When turnin
a remarkable hi
the north side,
* Properly Desi
rica, and he gave
beating Tibout in 1
t This is the di
no danger in goin;
one anchorinTor
bring the fort N. 1
BLUM ,S AMi:ilICAN COAST PILOT.
427
6 or 8 fathomj
pproach Cnbfs
I mile or therc-
t, or Old Fort
i.ediitely when
from the 'joast,
r soiuhw.ird, to
, as liy (iitiiiii s(i,
s! alwayn sulVi-
nconiiuon thin;
to get near tlie
iitively pass at 7
aloupe, is corn-
Die over into tlio
nd, wi'hip aboui
kfliich "s the first
no passage, and
jjo nl:)iig ill the
liscover a builil-
ot much the ap-
e entrance to the
ift" shore, observe
er, fran\ wliich a
ard ol the last is
i on it, where the
otweeii those two
veral large square
There ?re ioveral
which the ground
all piece of shoal
; is one of the bcsi
se islands are de-
icipa!, is 11 miles
tes, or All Saints,
1 All Saints' day,
)r shipping as,iny
d, and Terre d'en
le town, or rather
;en this town and a
e broad, and has
t wooden chtirch,
what quarter it
Filles, the sum-
fore a proper sta-
bast of this island,
a suide to ships
ten a rock, called
t;e of the channel,
|shore, in order to
juth point of the
jrthward of these
[eight, and it rises
|ral sunken rocks
Uhe western side
j? a fair shore, with good anchorage in several places. The town, IJasseterrc, wliich
is iirotected by a fort, stands on flic, S, \V. point of the island.
Along the eastern shore are lofty perpendicular rocks, that shelter vast numbers of tro-
pical 'lirds. The western shore is (lat, and the ground, in general, is projx'r for cultiva-
fii)ii. It has -jeveril large caverns, where crabs are found with many little streams and
ponds of fresh water.
DESIKADE, OH DESF.ADA.*— This is a small rocky island, destitute both of
wood and fresh water, but whereon some cotton is cultivated. The island lies nearly
E. X. E. and W. S. W., sha|)i,'d like a galley, the eastern end making like the head or
prow, and the western end like the tilt. J?ut on advancing towards the north side, some
white broken parches will appear, hke heaps of sand with red streaks in them. On this
side there are some rocks iin.'er water.
There is anchorage olf the S. W. part, at a mile and a half from some houses stand-
ing near the shore. Vou may anchor in from 5 to 7 fathoms of water, taking care to look
out for a clear s])ot. as the ground is rocky. When at anchor, I'etiie 'i'erre will bear
south, easterly, and Point Chateau.ic W. by S. Tlie latter is the easternmost point of
(luadaloupe, and may be known by a huimuocU on it. Between it and JJesiiade there
are -••i and •23 fathoms of water.
PETITE TEHllE is a .small sandy island, divided into two parts by a .shallow chan-
nel. It lies directly in the fair-way, or in a line between the eastern coast of iMarie-tJa-
lante and the isle Uesirade. Captain Bishop has said, "There is pretty good anchor-
ing by Petite Terre, to the westward, at two miles from shore, in 7 fathoms of water."
DOMlNiC.X. has, properly speaking, no harbors, but there is good and safe anchor-
age along the western side, all of which is bold. Slii))s are, however, e.xposcd to west-
erly winds as in the other islands ; but those winds prevail only in the winter months.
The chief town h that called Roseau, or (Jharlotte Town, on the S. W. side of the
island. In its road vessels may anchor in from 15 to 2^) fathoms, good holding ground. f
Between 3 and 4 miles from the north end lies a noble bay, called Prince Rupert's Bay,
from the famous Prin(;e Rupert's anchoring there, which, besides its safety, its magnitude,
the depth of water, and the goodness of the unchorage, has tlie advantage of three fresh
rivulets running into it. Fleets destined to other parts of the West Indies commonly
come to anchor in this bay, for the purjiose of supplying themselves with wood and wa-
ter, for which there are excellent conveniences.
Scot's Head, or L'ointCachacrou, the south point of Dominica, is a high rock, having
a fiag-stalf on it, which, from a distance, apjiears like an island.
The town of Roseau is about six miles to the northward of Scot's Head, and will be
readily discerned when sailing along shore. Merchant ships generally anchor in the
bay olf the south end of the town, but ships of war in the smaller bay to the northward,
called Wcodbridge F>ay, abreast of a gibbet erected near the beach, and ajipearing on
with the middle of a large caiiefield. To come to an anchor here, run in under easy sail,
nearly opposite to the gibbet, and let go the moment you get projier soundings.
The course and distance from Roseau to Prince Rupert's ]5ay are nearly N. N. W.
seventeen miles. The coast between is generally bold and steep.
BARBADOES TO DOMINICA, &c.— If "you are bound to Dominica from Bar-
badoes, you must steer N. N. W. till you have jiassed Martinique, and a N. W. course
will then carry you to the northward of Dominica. Leaving Marie-Calante on the star-
l.'oard side, haul up close in with the north point of Dominica; you will see a round
bluft' making like an island, at some distance ; go round tliat blulf, and you open the
bay ; turn into the north ))art, and anchor in 7, 8, or '.) fathoms. Yon will see the mouth
pposite
of a large river, which anchor to the northward of half a mile, and you will be
a small river, which you water at, the best in the bay ; the great river is brae kish. There
is another river to the soutliward, where you may anchor in b fathoms, clear ground;
but in 10 fathoms you will have coral rocks.
The north point, above referred to, is that called Cape Melville ; and the bluff is
Prince Rupert's Head, which forms the north side of the bay.
When turning into the bay its southern side will be in sight , which is a low point with
a remarkable high hill over it, called Rolla's Head and Hill. Prince Rupert's Head, on
the north side, is distinguished by two fortified hills, called the Cabrits, which are con-
* Properly Desiderada. It was the first land wliich Colombo made on his second voyage to Ame-
rica, and he gave it the name of the Desired Island, because he had for a long time before been
beating nbout in this vast n-act of waters, without seeing any thing but sea and skies.
t This is the description formerly given, but Mr. Backhouse describes as follows : — "There is
no danger in going in, and there are 6 and 7 fathoms at half a cable's length from shore. You lay
one anchor in 7 or 8 fatlioms, the other in 40 fathoms, very bad ground. The anchoring mark is ta
bring the fort N. E."
428
BLUNT's AiVnmiCAN COAST PILOT.
nected (o the main by n low marshy n<'ck. At the bottom of the bay, which I.1 fi mile
deep, is the town of Portsmoutli, conHistiriij of houses inei;ui;oiy piiiced : westward u(
Portsmouth, on a rising ground at the inner part of ttie niarsli which connects the Ca-
brits to the nain, tliere is a small jilantation, called (Jotloti Hill, with a few s nail hou.st-s,
Over the town appears two hijih sugar-loaf hdls, to the southward of wliic 1 is a hiyh
mountain, wliose suunnit is involved in clouds. To llie southward of Ponsrnoutli, ai
the distance of nearly a mile and a half, and on low ground neir the beach, is a planta-
tion, called I'icanlti Kstate; and nearly midway between Picarde Estate and Kolla's
Head is a (ine plantation, called that of Mount Allen.
Nearly mid-w\y between Portsmouth and Picarde Estate, in the valley on the south-
ern side of the two sugar-loaf hills that appear over the town, is the river called Indian
lliver, which talis into the bay.
When working into the bay, you may stand boldly over, from side to side, which is a
distance ot* nearly three miles. The bay is rather more than a tnile deep. Prime Ru-
pert's Head and Rolla's Head, are both so steep that either may be approached to the
distance of a ship's length. W hen olf Mount Allen, you may statid towards it so as lu
bring a single tamarind tree, which stands to the northward of the middle of Portsmoutli,
on with the highest land behind it. Vou may stand towards Picarde testate, until ;i lit-
tle hill to the west begins to open with the cultivated part of Motint Allen Estate, wiili-
out the western edge of Kolla's Hill. When standing towards the marsh, between the
Cabrits and Cotton Hill, you should tack in 9 or 7 fathoms, according to the ship's
draught.
From the inner part of the Cabrits, round the bay to the western Mde of the culti-
vated part of Mount Allen Estate, a shelf stretches frouj the beach, which is, in gen-
eral, a cable's lengtli broad ; off Indian River, is a cable's length and a half; at about
that distance there are 3 fathoms of water; thence it gradually deepens to 5, 7, i.nd 10 la-
thoms, and then suddenly to 1.3, 20, and 2f) fathoms. The clearest ground is in the shoal
water; for without the depth of 10 fathoms it is rocky. The best anchorage is olf the
tamarind tree, as above mentioned, and I he coast seen over the low land within the Ca-
brits, on with the western part of Cotton Hill, or on with the drain at the wesfeui end
of it. Should you be to the southward of the tamarind tree, you must run in until the
highest ground on the western side of the cultivated part of Mount Allen Plantation, is
open without the western side of Rolla's Hill. With either of these marks the groiiml
is muddy, and the depth is from ') to 7 fathoms. There is anchorage farther out, in from
12 to 20 fathoms, fine dark sandy bottom, at from one to three cables' length from shore,
with the tamarind tree E. N. E.
There is good fishing and good hauling for the seine throughout the bay. The water
of the small rivers is to be preferred, that of the larger being brackish.
Remarks from the Derrotero, S^v,
The Derrotero says that Dominica is the highest of all the Ar.tillas : it has niuch
wood and is very fertile. All its coasts are clean, and you may apsvoach within less than
a mile of them. On the west coast they experience great calms, which extend six miles
out at sea ; and here it is necessary to navigate under moderate sail, and with much cau-
tion, on accountof the heavy gusts that abruptlv proceed from the openings and vallevs
of the mountains; for, if caught, you may sustain serious damage from them. This
island has neither harbor nor secure anchorages ; the best are those of Roseau, on the
south part of the west coast, and Rupert's Bay, in the northern part of the same coast;
in both roadsteads they anchor at less than two cables' length from the shoro; and in
front of the towns; there is no need of instruction for going to them, for there is no
hidden danger.
After what has been said of the calms and gusts of wind on the west side, it seems that
the best way to avoid them will be for those be nd to Pupert's Bay, to make the north
part of the island ; and for those bound to Roseau, to make the south. The channel be-
tween Martinique and this island, offers no danger whatever; and the currents set to the
N. W., but thev are of little importance.
ST. ESPRIT REEF, in lat. 14° 37' N. long. 58° 59' W., so named from having
been discovered by the captain of the French ship St. Esprit, in 181'^, and afterwards
supposed to have been sounded on, as mentionetl in the 12th edition of this work, from
on board of H. M. ship ?torth Star, Lord Wm. Paget, in February, 1833. It appears,
however, that the reef does not exist, as Sir George Cockburn despatched the Ariadne,
Sapphire, Vestal, Forte, and Victor, H. M. ships, then on the W. India station, in Jan.
1834, and after a close examination, the captains reported no such shoal could be found.
MARTINIQUE is about 12 leagues in length, and lies N. W. by N. and S. E. by S.
Its breadth is extremely unequal, and scarcely any where more than four or five leagues;
and if you i
heyoml the
land is very
.siigar-loave.s
of winch hi
seen from e^
The princ
on the westf
near an exce
the resident i
de Sac or 1{(
east of it is (
war.
{)u every s
but some of
TheDlRi
the south pc
taken, should
otf it three ro
To the west»\
The Diain(
of Captain b
nearly as higl
the rock, but
Point Sili,
Martiniqu
Having mac
leagues. Th(
open, haul up
N., when you
thorns, which
FORT RO
Martinique, at
season its diffe
year, and we I
than the supei
and their neigl
during the rair
atmosphere,
favorable situa
s'^eltered by su
be exposed. \
ones, and the r
The bay of i
men, which we
middle of its le
breadth. Its j
This great bay"
ber it, and gre;
the color of th(
pa.sses, which I
curves.
Fort Royal,
situated on the
of which the pc
is built on a lo\
River Madame,
•ast by the can
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
429
rthi(;h i« h inile
il : wcHtwanl of
DtiiiPcts tlie Cn-
\v ^ m;iI1 lioustn,
.vliici is il binh
I'oHSIIKMItll, ;il
;ich, is a pliintii-
ate and Rulla'st
y on the south-
er called Indian
side, which is j
Bj). Prime Ku-
)proached to the
)wards it «•> as lu
.! of Portsinoiitli,
Estate, until a lit-
len Estate, wiili-
irsh, between tlie
)g to the slii|j'j
ide of the culti-
whieh is, in gen-
a half; at about
to 5, 7, ;.nd lOlii-
ind is in the sh(jal
■horage is oli'llif
id within the 'C\\-
t the western end
St run in until the
Hen Plantation, is
marks the groiiiui
irther out, in t'rdin
ength from shore,
I bay. The water
as : it has nmch
within lessthaii
extend six miles
id with much can-
jnings and valleys
Vom them. This
)f Roseau, on the
if the same coast;
the shoro: and iu
m, for there is no
side, it seems that
o make the north
The channel be-
currents aet to the
a mod from having
■7, and afterwards
of this work, from
18.13. It appears,
ched the Ariadne,
dia station, in Jan.
al could be found.
Mi. and S. E. by S.
uror five leagues;
and if yo" inrlnd'' tlie promontoric»s, which project in many places one or two IcnRUos
lifvoml tl'c rest ol th<' island, its ciicninicrence will in<-hidc above ;i(t Icajincs. The
land is ver»' uneven, and every where I'ltersecfcd with larj^e huniinocks, in the form of
Nil j;;ar- loaves. Three mountrtins rist; above these innumerable hiimmocUs, the highest
of which has been a volcano; it appears like the crown of a hat, and may be plainly
seen tVom every side of the island.
The principal towns are those named St. Pierre, (St. Peter,) f;nd Fort Royal, both
on the western side of the island. The latter, which is very advantaccoiisly situated
near an excellent liarbor, and under cover of ;i penill^llla entirely occupied by a fort, i.-*
the resident c of the (Jovernor. It stands on the north side of a deep bay, called Cul
(ic Sac or Hoyal Hay, and is sil.iatcd to the N. W. of the fort. A little harbor on the
east of it is called tiie Carenage. Here are all the conveniences for retitting siiips of
war.
(Jii every side of the island are large bays containing good harbors and sandy coves,
but some o( rhein do not ait'ord protection during the hurricanes.
'i'he DIKECT and TRUE course from the north end of Rarbadoes to I'oint Salines,
the south point of Marlinique, is N. W., distance 'M leagues; but the course to be
taken, should be N. W. by iM., to allow for a lee current. Point .Salines is low, anil has
off it three rocky islets; when these bear west, you may see between them and the points
To the westward of the islets, there are several dangers.
The Diamond Rock, which ''es oft' the S. W. point, is, according to the description
of Captain Hester, about twi the si/.e of the cupola of St. Paul's m London, and
nearly as high. To the N. E. of it is Great Diamond Cove,
the rock, but on the south side it is bold.
There is no sailing within
Martinique : the Diamond bearing W. by N., and Point Salines distant 2 or .3 leagues.
Having made the Diamond, the course thence to Port Royal 15ay is N. N. W. three
leagues. The tract is free from danger, and the shores bold. When you see the bay
open, haul up and the fort will be in sight ; turn uj) towards it until it bears N. by E. or
N., when you may anchor on a bank in H fathoms, or otf the bank in from 14 to 17 fa-
thoms, which is the best ground. The bank has coral on it, but is not rocky.
FORT ROYAL BAY. — The bay of Fort Royal, by its position on the west side of
Martinique, afl'ords a sheltei f.om the reigning winds! During the whole of the dry
season its different anchorages offer all the same degree of safety during this part of the
year, and we have no other motive in preferring one place to the other for anchoring,
than the superior facility of entering or leaving, which some places atford over others,
and their neighborhood to places with which we wish to communicate. It is different
during the rainy season, when we have to fear gusts of wind and sudden changes in the
atmosphere. At this season we must renounce the advantage of coming to anchor in
favorable situations for get i nj a ship under sail, and must seek a refuge in a situation
s'-eltered by surrounding ii .id, secure from the accidents to which we might otherwise
be exposed. We shall ,.r- cntly point out, among these anchorages, the most secure
ones, and the means of entering them.
The bay of Fort Royal is nearly .5^ miles wide, between Point Negro and Cape Solo-
mon, which we shall regard as its western limits. It narrows, so that as we reach the
middle of its length, it is reduced to two miles in width, and preserves about this mean
breadth. Its greatest depth is nearly 7 miles, in an E. S. E. and W. N. W. direction.
This great bay of water encloses a multitude of banks of gravel and coral, which encum-
ber it, and greatly diminishes the navigable part. These banks produce a change in
1 the color of the sea, by which they are easily known, and serve as a guide through the
i pa.sses, which they limit. They are generally very perpendicular, and form irregular
I curves.
; Fort Royal, the capital of the island, and the seat of government of the colony, is
situated on the north side of the bay, and IJ mile E. N. E. of Point Negro. This city,
I of which the population is nearly 4000 without including the garrison of Fort Bourbon,
I is built on a low, flat piece of ground, formed probably by the alluvial deposits of the
I River Madame, which forms its western boundary. It is bounded south by the sea,
•ast by the careening place, north by a canal which serves to communicate with the ca-
430
blunt's amkuican coast pilot.
I
I
I
I
I
hi
\mM
reening plnr*", tliP storrs oCthe pf)rt, and llic River MnH:\me. Thf strrofs nr« ctnijhf,
anil ( rosNcd hy others at ii<;lit anfjlcM. At it>< •■astern extieniity, near the laieeiiim; p|;i, i,
there is a (ine |)ara(U' calh'd the Si vaiinah, wliieh loriiis the (^iaeis of Kcirt Saint I^ouh,
elevated, like the rest of the Krontul only .'J or 4 I'vrt above the surl'aee of the sea.
Fort St. liouis (on whieh there 's a light) is hnilt on a peninsula terminated on al! i
sides by steep rocks oC ii eonsiderabl.' hei.;ht, espeeially (,n the western part. Thi'* |ir.
ninstilii extends (>()() yards south oftle I'lirade, and separates the (Mreening place iimn ;
the (iernian Arxhorage, which is sitii.ited between the city and Point Nef;ro. It i.sin):
;«cccssil)l(! iVom the land except bv :i narrow isthiriiis, which joins it to the Savannah, (in
the east side it is defended bv ;> ' "• ofgravel and inadreporic, rocks, which stretches ,S.
and S. W. about hall' a :nil
'J'he (iernian Anchora'^e ,..is ..<r its limits to the north, after leavinj; Point Neprn. i
coast of middling elevation, whose almost perpenilicniar shores terminate before re;nh-
iny .Madame River, by a little wharf built for a landing place. Farther to the east, iimi
tlie peninsula of Fort .St. Fiouis, and on the site of the city of h'ort Royal, we fuid tb
soil couipoNcd of grey sand, which is terminated by a handsome beach, where yout.n.
land with great facility at all limes.
The anchorage exic nds westwardly, far as the Virgin Rank, situated fi cables' leneili
S. S. K. from Point Negro. It is bounded south by the IMitau ]{ank, and near Fort>i
Louis by the bardis from this fort. On the western extremity of these bardis is a pur
anchored in 1') feet water, and (i cables' length .S. ;i.') W. from the (lag-stalf of the I'mi,
From Virgin's Bank to the southwani of the church of Fort Royal, the soundings di'-
crease gradually from 1.'>1 to 11 feet, on a line, tm which the (lag-stalf of Fort .St. Loim
bears N. I'jA^ K. This line indicates the best j)lace to come to anchor. If you (jiiit
this line, either to the N. or .S., you will (iiid, at ditfercnt distances, the madre|)oric rocU
wliich are dangerous to come to anchor on, on account of the as|)eritie.s of the boiloiii.
Some of them rise .suddenly fifty feet above the bottom of mud by which they are siir
rounded.
It is on this line of bearing relative to tlie flag-staff of the fort, and nearly .S. j M"
of Madame River, in from 'JO to 110 feet water, that government vessels usually anciior
'J'he vessels of commerce usually approach nearer the fort and the savannah.
You can, if ne<'ess ivy, anchor on the Mitau Hank, the length of which in an K. and
W. direction, is half a mile, and the nu-an width tlirce cables' length; but you sliouli
anchor about the centre of the bank, m from 8 to 9 fathoms, as this part otVers few ir
regularities, and wheie the risk of damaging your anchor and cables is less. In aiiclidr
ing too near the edge of this bank, you will expose your cables to be cut, and your ;«i-
chors to be caught in the crevices of the rocks. For greater security, however, wend
vise you not to anchor on this bank, except with a chain cable.
The highest part of this bank is covered with 24 feet water, and is situated one niilcS.
,36° \V. from the south extremity of Fort St. Louis.
We are not certain that Virgin's Bank is composed of madreporic rocks. The Jiigli-
est part of this bank has .'31 feet water.
With the winds from E. to F.. N. E., which almo.st always blow here, you canno!
reach German Anchorage without making several tacks, but this offers no difticulty. lui
there is only one dangerous bank at the entrance of Fort Royal Bay, which is the Dank
of Gros Islet, on the shoalest part of which are 21 feet of water. This bank is siliinteii
one mile and seven tenths north of Islet Ramiers, and about the same distance iVuin
Point Negro.
The permanency of the winds from the cast, from November to .Tuly, makes the fin-
man Anchorage perfectly safe. It is only in the months of August, September, nivi
October, that it is necessary to (|uit it and seek refuge in the careenage, at the Three
Islets, or at the Cohe du Lamentin, which we shall presently describe.
The port of the careenage, by its situation east of Fort St. Louis, affords a shelter
from all winds which would endanger a vessel at the Gentian Anchorage. It is a little
bay four tenths of a mile wide, bounded west by the peninsula of Fort St. Louis, ami
east by Point Carriere. A point of small height divides this bay, near the inarine es-
tablishment, into two parts, one of which communicates '..ith the canal which surroiin*
the city, and the other, which is more spacious, is encumbered with banks ofgravel and
madreporic rocks. The port of the careenage extends from the mouth of the canal to
the north and south extremity of Fort St. Louis. Its width is scarcely a cable's lengili
at its entrance, and diminishes gradually, so that vessels stationed there, the number fi
which is oftentimes very great, have not sufficient room, and are obliged to prescrvf
their respective situations, to moor to anchors, secured to the foot of the walls of thf
fort.
There is, at the entrance of the careenage, a little to the north of a line from Point
Carriere, to the extremity of Fort St. Louis, a coral bank, which narrows very much tlie
I
anrhnrinj; pi
iind .1 half's
It, Ht Its .lIlOU
The cliani
rvlend on on
tliire (-aides'
lor heating ii
We advise
slinalrKt part
South of t
an excellent ;
o( cfiyey mu
''arricrc, at t
Seclie .Slionl
.Vear Point
mile N. N. V
iuid the eiitr;
drained lands
One (|uarte
Milh, remark
Many bank:
tin ; the birge
into two parts
The next a
bay of Fort li
rdiiiiding hmd
alcd half a mi
taut, (rreat I
and descends j
of 70 yards frc
fiiverod by a s
most of the tin
takes its name
its position, d(
anchorage is a
"liich dimiiiisl
the preference
aiids to the to|
most to (xreat
A bank of g
surrounds aim
a half cables'
of the Three I
From Point
the sea. It is
wide, and in d(
the bay.
Between the
southernmost f
Ance d' Arlet,
islet, strongly 1
bears nearly N.
ing weathered
On the south
forder to gain th
iislet, and turn ii
|of the isle bear
iUe cautious of
I breaks with a g
i
Desi
■cr
Leaving the
jHarbor of Trir
jborder of reefs \
|depfh, separatei
BLUM'S AMr:iU<A\ COAST IMF.OT.
131
roots nro slriinhf,
I- carfriiinn plm c,
i'((rt Saint LouU,
of the SCSI.
ItMiirmaH'il on ;il!
11 part, 'riiis |ir.
iMMiiiij; |)lac(' Irtim
Nff;!"". It '!* 'ii'i
1r' Savannah, dii
which stretches S.
i(T Point Negro, ,i
natc l)ef()rc' rciich-
vr ti) the east, n'l!
Royal, we fiml ib'
:h, where jou lh;
P(l f) rabies' leneili
,, and near KortN
•se banks is a pur
jjr-statV of the Imi,
, the soundings (If-
ir oC Fort St. Loi.n
chor. li" vou (|Uii
> uiadreporic rouks.
ities of the boUom
fliich they are sur
id nearly S. I ^V
ie\s usually anclior
vannah.
which in an K. an'.
ih; but ynu shuuk
s part otVcrs few ir-
is less. In anclKir-
)e cut, and your ;ui-
ty, however, we ad-
situated one mile S.
; rocks. The liigli-
here, you cannC
ers no difficuhy, Im
which is the Bank
his bank is siluaw
same distance fruiu
nly, makes the Gpr-
st,' September, aiil
mage, at the Tlnet
be.
lis, affords a sliell'i
orage. It is a litil'
'ort St. Louis, mi
lear the inaririp es-
lal which surroiiml*
banks of gravel and
)uth of the canal lo
^ely a cable's leng'li
here, the number oi
obliged to preservif
of the walls of thej
anchoring place. This hank is situated east of the bnrrncks of the fort, is near a cabKi
juui .1 h;df's length troni N. N. H. to S. S. W., and has only from H to ') feet water on
it, »t Its shoale-4t part. Its north part is marked by a pier.
Thu channel oi' the carei-nage is between banks of gravel and madrepnric rocks, which
rxlend on one side four cables' length south of Kort .St. liouis, and on the other side
llirt'o cables' len;.;tli S. .S. W. from i'oint ( 'arriere. Small vessels tind hi-re spare enough
tor beating in, l>ut others shoulil not atiempt it except with a li>ading wind.
We advise you not to pass the (Irand .Seclie .Shoal. It is probable, however, tiiat tiio
shoalrst part has not less than "JO feet water.
South of the mouth of Monsieur iliver, and in a bend (d"the (Jrand Seclie .Slmal, is
aiiexci'ilent anchorage, where you can an.lior in 7I> to .■^!l fei-t of water, with a bottom
of c'livcy mud. This aiicliorage is bouii led north by the banks extending from I'oint
CarriiMf, at the entrance of the careenage, and south by the southern j)art of the (riand
Scciie Shoal.
Near I'oint Sn'ile is the entrance to the Cohe du fiamentin, a bay extending 1 1"„ of a
mile N. N. W. and .S. S. K. Its greatest width perpendicular to its kMii;tli, is I ,', mile,
and the entrance seven tenths of a mile wide. The River Laiiieutiii winds through
rlrained lands, and enters the bottom of this bay.
One (|uarter of a mile S. S. W. from the entrance of the River Lamentin, is I'oint
Milh, remarkable for a handsome building sitiialedon the highest point.
Many l)anks of gravel and roc^ks occupy a considerable space in the (."olie du Lamen-
tin : the largest lixtends from I'oint .Milh W. S. W. -1 calties' leriiith, dividing the bay
into two parts, where you can anchor on a bottom otinnd. with excellent holding ground.
The next anchorage, that of the Tliret; Islands, is one of the most important in the
hay of Fort Royal. This anchorago is easily known from the appearance of the sur-
rdiiiiding land, and particularly by a small island, called the (ireat Ulet, which is situ-
ated hall a mile from the south side of the bay, and south from lied Hill, •_• miles dis-
tant. (Jreat Islet is composed of two distinct parts; the lirst part has a round summit
and descends gradually to the sea ; the second |)art, on the contrary, has an abtii|)t rise
of 70 yards from the bed of the sea, and is terminated on the top by a little rocky jilateau,
covered by a slight vegetation, composed of small bushes and herbs dried ii|) for tho
most of the time by the sun. The anchorage, as well as tlu^ village of the Three Islands,
takes its name from three small islands situated near the coast, forming a triangle. IJy
its position, defended by banks which break oil" the sea caused by westerly winds, this
anchorage is a very safe one during the rainy season, but it contains a number of banks,
wjiich diminish the space of the anchorage. The place for anchoring to which we give
the preference, is on the middle of aline drawn from the easi "u of the three small isl-
ands to the top of Great Islet. In going farther south, we me . with banks reaching al-
most to (treat Islet.
A bank of gravel and madreporic rocks covered with but two to three feet of water,
surrounds almost entirely the western i)art of (ireat Islet, and extends to within five and
a half cables' length of Point Rose. This bank limits to the i\. and E. the anchorago
of the Three Islets.
From Point du Bout S. 56° W. is the Isle Ramiers, a rock elevated 2.5 yards above
the sea. It is separated from the coast by a channel about a cable and a half's length
wide, and in depth 8 to y feet. A fort, built on the highest part, defends the entrance to
the bay.
Between the Diamond Rock and Port Royal Harbor, there are three small coves, the
southernmost of which is called Little Diamond (,'ove, and the others (irand and Petite
Alice d' Arlet, or Arlet Coves. At the S. W. corner of the harbor there is a small greea
islet, strongly fortified, called Islet An." Ilamiers, or Pigeon Island, from which the fort
bears nearly N. by E. In working into t.ie harbor, by keeping fl'^^' '<''i'^ S"i'ig. and hav-
ing weathered Pigeon Island, you may rnchor at pleasure.
On the soulh side of Pigeon Island there is a little roadstead P^ ^"'^; ^^^^^.t'of tfrfc
forderto gain this place, those who are well acquainted go round t,!^^.^' ^ J^ putern part
iislet, and turn in. The south shore is steep. The anchorage liesv^^*^ ^ '^ ^^' \ ground.
|of the isle bearing north, N. by W., or N. iN. W., in 7, 8, and 9 fa-'|^o'"^J jV^^,^ U, which
iBe cautious of api)roachi.ig too near the eastern shore, as a bauksj^''^'^
[breaks with a great swell.
if
a line from Poi"'
rows very mucbtiie
Description of the Bay and Harbor of Trinity, hy Mans
Leaving the island of St. Mary, the coast trends about E.60°
jHarbor of Trinity ; which is distant from this island 3^- miles.
Iborder of reefs which surround it in almost every direction. It for
Jepfb, separated from each other in many places by high steep po^^.f"^ ^'
[ieur Monier.
to the bottom of the
■and is defended by a
,:,ims little bays ol srn^l
other places ot
432
ni-U\T8 AMKRK AN COAST PILOT.
but midillin^ einvntion, aimtng othnrn wn diMtiii^ui^li Fort Point, situated towarrli ihg
north put ol th<' (Jily oC 'I'rinity.
Vou will rciniirk, brlori' iirriving ;il the bottom o( tlir hnilior, no islet, diMtiinl from ilu
rrccedina; coiiNt tlirrc (|ti;irt('n ol a nnlc, Ivui^ near n mil** iuid a hidf north ol Kon
'oint, and * liiilr more tli;iii tiiat distaiMM' I'roni tlm i"<l«'t ol Si. Miiry, troni whirh it
hrari S. 5h ' K. 'I'his isli-t, known liy thti n.iini' of St. Anbiii. iiidirntes th«! fMitriinic n(
tlir harbor of 'I'rinity, to vrssris I'oniinu by the Doniinicii ('hnnncl. It.t a|)|)raranro;iii(|
position make it rasily disiin^nishcd. it a|i|ii>ar.s hi^iiand ttfrp in all parts, and it<ihi!<li.
est part in covered wiili biislii-s, niixrd with a IV'W tri'C!!. Yon c ui ^o on tin* north siii"
as nrnrasyoti please; (or it is perCectly sal'e on this side, but on the south side it [ip.
seiils a yreat slioal ol' inailreporic roeks, scattere(| towards the e(ii;ps willi projectiii); ir-
ri'i;nlur rocks, inaiiv (d which are at tlii^ h>vel of the sea. At the smith part ol this s)in,|,
which stretches near hall a niilc S. ol' the islet, i<i a bank ol wliiie sand, I'ormed, prij|i;i.
hly, by the attrition ol' the blocks of coral detached by the violence of the waves.
'I'he island ol St. Aiibin is also inaccessible at the K. S. K. side, because of a iliin
of shallows which exieiiils about '^', cables' lrn;;ih oil, and on wiiich the sea often brriikv
This chain, covi.-red with II to 'Jl feet of water only, forms the western limit of the than
nel which leads lo the am horage.
From wliafever (|iiarter you may rouie, you may be directed in the proper conrneii
take for the harbor of Trinity, by the view of a rock, which, from a distance, appear*
like a vessel under sail, and for this reason is called Carvel Uock. 'I'his ro( k, elev.iipi:
'.)() feel above the level of tlie sua, is totally devoid of vcoelation, and distinjiiiishcd li\ ,
pointed summit, whitened by the iin^ of the numerous llocks of sea birds. It i.^ .n
excellent distiimnishiin; point for every vessel from Kurope or the United Slates, boiim
to Trinity, or to any of ihi' anchorages of the eastern coast, because it is to the winil
ward of all the anchoraui's and ports on this part of the island. The depth of w,\ir
iiround it bcin;; considi'rable. you can approach it as near as you wish, but the swell <
the sea, caused by tlie direct and permanent action of the trade winds renders laiidm;
almost impossible.
A channel more than a mile and a half wide, exists between tlie f'arvel Rock and l!i<
east part <»f a peninsula to which it has j;iven its name. 'J'his peninsula, remarkahlpli'
its great projection fiom the east coast, forms the harbor of 'i'rinity by its junction i
that part ui' the coast near the Island of St. Aubin, and separates tliis anchorage I'rw
that at the bottom of (talleon 15ay,by an isthmus, but little tdevated and only half anii<
wide, on which is the plantation of IJeau Sejour, and also a wind mill, which is one olil'l
iTiost remarkable olijects in the neijuliborliood of Trinity. The("arvel Peninsuhi n I
tends in a direction k. ','7^ N. near six miles; the land increases in height towards th'
K. as far as Tartan Hill, situated about the middle of its length, the highest puiiii i
whirh is f)"2.T feet above the level of the sea; from thence the land decreases in lieijln
and asain rises in a very sensible manner towards the east extremity : and throiighot
the whole extent, shows in general, a vegetation much less vigorous than the other par.'
of the island. To the north of the peninsula the reddish steep shores of little elfn
tion, form the edges of many straits; in other places are sandy bays, in which you r.ir.
not penetrate by reason of the reefs which border them, or the swell of the sea, whii.
insinuates itself in the small intervals where the reefs are interrupted.
Tartan tiaj/, situated near the islet of this name, is the largest and deepest; but lb
roral rocks by which it is encumbered almost every where, leave only a narrow pjs!
practicable only for boats.
Opposite the harbor of Trinity, a chain of madreporic rocks stretches from tlip n
tremity of tlie Carvel Peninsula towards the Sugar-loaf Rock, in a direction geneniljv W
jsl. W. Its surface is une(|ual in many parts, forming shoal banks of great extent, win
cause a very heavy ses,. 'Phe most remarkal)le of all, is the LoupMinistre ; we lin'
'".""u*^/ *'"'"' '" ^*^ ''iet, and profiting by t!:» circumstance of very calm weather, wef>:
*>nd in tr ^'"^'^^^ P-irt at 7 feet. This shoa' part is always indicated by heavy breakf"
ftf froni b"^*^" • '^ ■'•*" c!*sily be distinguished from a vessel's deck or masts, otherwi"
of the fiance'"^ ''" obj g^j ^f apprehension, it contributes the better to judge of the positie:
when bound ii f^ '/'^ e to the coast, and the distance it is necessary to keep to avoid them
rjii •"" me
i ne term Lour) ^"Vf "" "" * •' '
applied to all fb h' '" "'0 "■'^^'^ ^^ Martini(p:e to designate the preceding shoal, is usual'
at intervals. W i"^ ^"^ covered by a small quantity of water, and on which the seabreal'
of the coasts. Vi dl have occasion to use luis term frequently in a further descripiK
J^etween the Loi ^'
is covered with b U*" ^'"'^'''^ ^^^ ^he north part of the Carvel Peninsula, the bottrj
water. It is xiot ne ' ^ °^ different sizes, on many of which we found but 3i fatlionisij
88 you would be obl^"^*'''^^^'^ ^^ P*^* them in entering or leaving the Harbor of Trinitv,lH|
!imtged to pass the great chain of madreporic rocks, of which the Uv>
IPiir.
■'^A^ji^yut^^^^wf . -
/
Miidstro fori
iiijy not )iav
•buiild the >v
There e\i
wti S. S. W
' Here ilie cli
white s.iiid ix
VV. N. W.I I
of St. .Mary
by one in wn
nut lu pa«s o
lor the sea tl
blow fnoii til
the least J.')
channel whi<
ui '».
The passa;
An bin, are
IS very iiiipoi
, pose yourself
very gieat d;
^ until the Islet
i ri'ctions give/
^ just s|)()kei|.—
:', a lair wind, o
I or seven cabb
J the .Mailiepiii
I liave nii\ .siiiii
U'. of tlie L,,
Jiowever, thro
may come to i
space coi.ipris
cellent ; if is
K. to the S. K
>; which cause a
s these winds bl
I It is oftentii
ticnlarly when
to approach as
may be done v
able to double
which there ai
which is about
less didicitlty,
extent by lines
liank, covered
•St. Aubin, are
it is not necess
banks of the L
Once outsidi
Ministre ; and
you may pass i
ia little to the e
The reef to I
fit and tlie bore
t;able's length (
bottom of whit
phould not atte
The Carvel '
draught of wat^
other anchorag
Md ihe violent
JBoundings we e
Trinity next
ony. The cit
f*oint. Its len
HLUMT S AMUIIICAN COAST IMLOT.
433
uated toward* th«
!t, (liHtJinl from the
i;iir nttrtli ol Fori
ry, Iroin wliirh n
Irs th«! <'ntruMet' m
\\H ii|)|iriir;itiro;in(|
pivrtd, iind itxiii;;)!.
> on iIk' nortli m(I.
south Jtidf it |ir»
with pitijpctiiin ir-
I part ol thin hIumI,
iiul, t'nrniPil, prolia-
iC th<' wavi's.
Iicinmse of a clniii
IV. sv;\ (il'tcii l>rr;ik«.
II hiiiit ut' the chaii
IP pro|.er connip i
a (listaiicr, appfats
'I'his roik, elcv.iier
(I (listiiij;iii>thcil In i
sea birds. It !«■ .n
iiitt'd Slates, boimi
>(' it is to the wiml
riie th'ptli of waii[
*\\, but the swtH i
[ids renders laiidin:
'arvel Rock and t!-'
sula, reiiiarkal)|p|i'
y by its junction t
his anchora<;e (mt
and only half a nii*
I, which is one oI'lLf
arvel Peninsula fv
leight towards th'
le liit;hest point ii
ecreases in lifijlii
ty : and througliot
lan the other \nr:
res of little eifva
in which you ran
of the sea, whit:
1.
ul deepest ; hut lb
only a narrow pjM,
tches from the fv
ection generally V
great extent, whir
"iMinistre ; we b"
»lin weather, wees:;
d by heavy breaker'
or masts, otherwi"
ludge of the positr.
keep to avoid then
dine; shoal, is usujC'
which the sea brei'
a further descripHi-
iiinsula, the botto'j
nd but 3^ fathoniMi
larborofTrinitv,fii|
, of which the Lc«
Miiilittre forms a ])art, ymi inl^ht be exposed, in passhi);, to sntiie <lanp;rrnns rock*, which
iiiJV iiDl liave been di.>i(-overeil by us in ^ull||dlllg, or receive a |;rfat ithui-k from tlie aea,
.hoiiid tli« wind freshen ever ho little.
'Iheie exists south of ihe Islet ot .St. Aiibin, more than half a miln otf, a bank extend-
II ^ S. S. \V. and N. .N. K, o\(r hall a mile, and on which wc found ','1 to ;t',' teet wator.
Here the chain "I slicials, wliicli lies nil the Harbor of 'rrinily, ceases. A bottom of
wiiite .s.uid is louiid, iiiiiiiediutely on the wesi side, in i.'j to |m lathoms water, and stretches
\V . N. NV. the neneral direction of the reefs, to the IjOiip St. Mary, situaleil N. N. K.
of St. .Marv's Islet, a mile distant. 'I'lii"* shoal oiriipies a space of three cables in length
Itv one ill width, and the shoalest water we found on it was ,\i leivt. It is best, however,
not to p;iss over it, notwitllslan(lill^' the i;real (|uantity of water by wliicli it is covered ;
lor the tea there is always heavy, and oltentinies breaks, particularly when the wiiidii
Mow friMii the E. N. K. to the N. K. strongly from these points; the soiindinj;;;s are at
the least J') fathoms less than :i cable's leicjth from the liOiip St. INIary ; and in the
channel which separates it from the islet, the depth of water varies tVom IS fathoms
to '».
The passages between (lie Loup Ministre, the liouit .St. Mary, and the Islet of .St.
Aubin, are at least a mile wide, and are lVe((ueiiied by vessels bound to Trinity; but it
IS very important not to i^el in with the chain of the I^oup .^Iinistre, for you would ex-
pose yourself in passini; over tlii- shoals where the soiiniliiia;s are scarcely |^ fathoms, to
virv ^'leat ilan^er troiii the sea. Voii will take the precaution to keeji your distance
until the Islet .St. Aubiji bears S. [ K. (true) at the distance of nearly 2 miles. The di-
rections given by this course beiiii; very near the west part of the banks of which we have
just spoken. — Vou should not deviate from this course to the eastward, (whetheryouhav«
a lair wind, or must beat in) tiilyoii briiii; llu- Island of St. Aubin to bear S. I K. at six
or seven cables' leii<;th distance. — Vitn may then stretch towards the southern limits of
the .Madieporic Kocks, and when you are W. N. W. of the Loup Ministre, and you
have not sulliciently to windward to be N. E. \ H. of the small island of St. Aubin, and
W. of the Loiip Ministre, you must steer S. | W, for this aiichniane, guiding yourself,
i however, through the passage by the sijilit of thi! reels which line it east and west. You
! may come to anchor east of Kort i'oint, between the two chains of reefs, and in the whole
'., 8p'4ce cohiprised between this position and the bottom of tin; harbor the anchorage is ex-
; cfllent; it is sheltered from the prevailing winds, which generally vary only from the N.
I E. to Ihe S. E. passing easterly. The winds from the N. ami N. | E. are the only ones
I which cause any mwcII, because their direction is the sann^ as ih U of the entrance, but
ylhi'se winds blow very rarely, ami are not to be feared except in tlu; winter season.
'^ It is oftentimes more dillicult to git out of the IJarbor of Trinity than to enter, par-
■ti(!ularly when the winds are E. N. E. Taking care, liowevcr, to low your vessels so as
to approach as near as possible to the banks winch limit the anchorage to the East, which
may bo doiu! without iiKumvenieiice, as tiieso banks are to windward: you will then be
al)le to double a little rock (letach(;d from the reef which surrounds Foil Point, and on
which there an; but 7 fathoms of water, after having passed to the north of tliis danger,
which is about two cables' lengtii E. N. E. from the Fort, the passage will present much
less didiculty, as the pass widens mm h and is marked through the greatest part of its
;extent by lines of breakers, which border it almost without interruption. The Mitau
Bank, covered with 11 feet of water only, and the banks to the E. S. E. of the Islet of
.St. Aubin, are the only dangers which the breakers do not render always apparent; but
it is not necessary to prolong your distance as far as the Mitau liank to pass clear of the
banks of the Islet of St Aubin
Once outside the Islet of St. Aubin you will make your course westward of the Loup
Ministre ; and in case you want to go towards the entrance of the Dominica Channel,
^jou may pass inside of Loup St. Mary, or outside, openiui: the wind-mill of Beau Sejour
la little to the cast of the Islet of ,St. Aubin to avoid this bank.
The reef to the south of the Islet of .St. Aubin, does not extend to tlie shore. Between
it and the bordei cf breakers which siurounds the coast, there is a channel of about a
able's length or more wide, and in which tlic soundings are from 5 to 6 fathoms, with a
ottom of white sand. This narrow passage is freriuented by boats, as for vessels they
hould not attempt it.
The Carvel Channel, which we have before mentioned, is used by vessels of a great
raught of water, but as it does not f-horten the route to the Harbor of Trinity, or the
ther anchorages on the east coast, and as there are great inequalities in the soundings,
nd the violent currents oftentimes cause a heavy sea, it is but rarely used. The least
oundings we ever found there is 40 feet.
Trinity next to Saint Pierres and Fort Royal is the most commercial place in the co-
ny. The city extends along a beach of sand which terminates to the north at Fort
oint. Its length is about 3400 feet, its breadth is very small. Since the hurricanes of
55
■.^^.lAJiJiii
434
IJLUiNi's
A 31 ERIC AN COAST PILOT.
1813 1 1817, tlicro ia no roinaikablo cdifico. Tlio River F'pinette crosses it towards
the so i(hern part, alter liavinj; watered a narrow valley j)laiite(l witli .su!;ar canes. It Ik
a Wiiterinj; piiico which may answer lor vessels aru liored in the road ; but to have pure
and limpid water, it is necessary to jio to the interior a considerable distance. Duiing
our stay at Trinity, the crew ot the Eclair preferred procuring their water at a spring at
the plantation oljieaii Sejonr."
PUllT ROYAL to ST. PIKRTMv— The N. W. point of the Port Royal Harbor i,
low, though bold, and has a masked battery on it. 'Co the, N. W. of this point, about 'j
miles distant, there is a rivulet of fresh water, and a village called Case des Navires. oti'
which there is excellent anclioragc, from abreast of its westernmost liouses to abreast of
a battery cDst of it. The anchoring-ground, or bank, reaches only to the distance of a
cable's loi>gth and a half from sliore. Within half a cable's length of the beach, thf
water is shoal, deepening thence to three fathoms on the outer part, and to 5, 7, 10, 15. Ik:
and 2o fathoms, at a cible's length distance ; off t o battery the ground is clean, soften-
ing to soft nuKJ abreast of the westernmost houses. Without the depth of 24 fathom?,
the ground is hard and gravelly.
In order to anchor in this road, you must turn to windward before you stand in, until
the easternmost cluster of hotises in the village appears on with the middle of the vallov
behind them; then steer in with this mark. When the point between Case des Naviren
and the next village, called Case Pilote, ope.is without the land to the N. W., you
will be entering on the bank in 4.'j fathoms; the;i steer so as to have the westernninst
house of the cluster above mentioned on with the middle of the valley; and with Le
Grossc Pointo, on the south side of Port Royal Harbor, shut in behind Point Negro, yon
may anchor a large ship in 18 or 20 fathoms. .Small vessels may stand farther in, with
the same mark, to the depth of ') or 7 fathoms.
ST. PIERRE, (St. Peter,) the trading town of i^Iartinique, lies about 4 leagtits to
the N. W. of Port Royal. It is built partly upon the rising grounds at the foot of a
riilge of Jiills, and partly along the sh(>re of a spacious circular bay, which forms an open
road to the southward and westward.
The best anchoring place, called the Frigate's Anchorage, lies in the southernmn^i
part of tlic road, (when you see some steep cliffs and rocks,) in 7 fathoms, gravfliv
ground. If you bring thn higliest steei)le of the town N. ]l E., and Point Carhet (on
the soutli side of the road) soiuii, you will Jiavc 7 fathoms, oozy ground.
Tlie French frigate La Flore, being moored in this road, in 1772, with one anclioiiu
25 fathoms, line sand, and tlie other in 4', fathoms, same ground, had the following bear-
ings by compass, the variation at the same time, was '.t° 52' E.
Point Preclieur N. W. by N. 3° N., the (iailev's End N. 9° W., the Black Friar's
Tower N. 3° AV., the Negroes' Chapel E. 2^ N., Point Carbet, S. 4^ W.
If you intend to stay some time in this road, it is projieryon should lie with one anchor
close to the shore, to the S. E. or E. N. E. (or even on shore) and the other to the
N. W.
In the hurricane months, that is, from the 15th of .July to the 15th of October, ships
cannot lie with safety in this road, ami the French ships are generally obliged to jeavf
it on the 15th of .Inly at farthest. If they are to remain for a longer time at Martini(|iif
they retire into Port Royal Ray, wliere they lie secure against the hiuricanes; they may
also find shelter in Trinity 15ay to the windwaid and on the north side of the island
Mr. Backhouse, in his descrijnion of the Road of St. Pierre, lias observed that "thm
are 30 and 40 fathoms at two cables' length from the shore ; but farther oil" than thatyo:;
will be oft" the bank. They generally lay one anchor in 25 or 30 fathoms, and the otlie:
in 12. The marks with which we anchored were the fort S. by E ; the great church .V
offshore one cable's length, in 24 fathoms.
In sailing from Case Navirec to St. Pierre, you will pass the village and battery oi
Case Pilote, and those of Fovt Capet and Carbet. Between the latter is the promontniy
called Morne aux Bccufs, which bears N. N. W. |
W., distant 5.j leagues, nearlv,
tJie Diamond Rock
The anchorage in this bay is far from ofl'ering adequate seciuity to the many vessels
that frequent it from Europe, West Indies, the United States and Gulf of Mexico, lis
being exposed to all winds from S. S. W. to N. W. by W., renders it particularly dan-
gerous during the winter months, as well as towards the commencement and at the end
of that season, by reason of the sudden squalls of wind then frequent. The ground
swell is then often experienced with a violence that afterwards causes great damage. In
the other parts of the year, the road of St. Peter's is ahuost entirely exempt from tlmsf
dangers, and it is a shelter from the reigning winds, which blow from the E. to thcE-
N. E., and the phenomenon of the grand swell is iruich nearer and less dangerous' ilif
only inconveuienoe it occasions is to impede considerably the communications with the
city, and sometimes to render them impracticable.
Vessel
j;round s
they are
to sea tlj(
cables; 1
hold, the
.shore am
I lonial go
iuenceine
the bay o
The b(
extremity
other i)ar
itlat space
in 21 fath
particulai
Bay of T
toni of irr
The an
res, whicl
Place Bei
soundings
chor at a
I chor carri
I they may
i It is also I
.' sel from c
A little
cahlfi's Icii
wliicli fore
proacliing
<licuii<r wall
from 166 k
sary to son
ingoing fai
to he cut b
North ol
conies mor
2^ cables' 1
wi!l find no
Variatior
NORTI
vancing fro
parture froi
theN.E. I
feet of tlurr
narrow opei
ilookout af te
tercept the
winds to lee
This side
very summi
fnly the Mi
that is barr(
Point Ma
or kind of t
miles to the
•called the P
or Preacher
presents its(
-l<e Precher
the Morne a
the Diamon
Between t
tected by ba
crosses it towards
:iin;ar canes. It is
; but to have pure
distance. Diiiiii"
kvater at a spring at
DLUiVr's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
435
rt Royal Harbor I?
this point, about •.'
ase (les Navires, oil"
nouses to abreast (if
to the distance of a
li of the beacli, iho
ulto 5,7, 10, 15. 1>^
ind is clean, soften-
eplh of 24 fathom?,
c you stand in, until
middle of the valley
jn Case des Naviies
to tlie N. \V., you
ivo the westernmnst
'alley ; and with Le
id Point Negro, yon
taiid farther in, with
s about 4 leagues Id
uids at the foot of a
which forms an oppri
in the southernninst
7 fathoms, grnvi'liy
An\ Point Carhet (mi
ound.
2, with one nnclioiii)
d the following bear-
., the Black Friar's
W.
lie with one anclior
and the other to the
ith of October, ships
illy obliged to leave
time at Martinlqup
lurricanes; they may
Ic of the island
observed that "thcr?
icrolf than ihatyu'.
thoms, and the othe:
the great church N.
illage and battery of
er is the promontniy
leagues, nearly, from
to the nianv vessfls
Ju\( of Mexico. 1(8
.-s it particularly dm-
ement and at the otiil
quent. 'J'hc grounil
les great damage. In
y exempt from tliosf
••oin theE. totiieF,.
. less dangerous' the
muuications withtlii!
Vessels surprised at the anclioragfi liy strong winds from the ojien sea, or from a heavy
■ground swell, find themselves in a critical situation. If they cannot tow out, or beat out,
jhey are oftentimes thrown ashore l)y tlie enormous surges ; if instead of attempting to go
(0 sea they remain at anchor, their loss is almost certain, particularly if they have not chain
cables; for the continual shocks of the sea cause them to drag their anchors, or if they
hold, the agitation of the sea causes the cables to part, and in either case they drive on
shore and soon go to pieces. With the intention of preventiug such shipwrecks, the co-
lonial government orders all French vessels to quit tin; roacl of St. JV'ter at the com-
inencenient of tlie winter, and obliges them to depart for Kuro|>e, ov pass this season in
the bay of Fort Royal, either at the careenage or at the port of the Three Islets.
The best anchorage in St. Peter's Road extends from I'oint St. ^lartha to the south
extremity of 'I'hurin's li:\y. The soundings in this jiavt have less declivity than in the
other jiart of the road. They I'orm relative to the depth which exists before the city a
flat space of less depth, called the Plateau of Carliet. You may anchor on this plateau
in 21 fathoms, two cables' length from the shore, but you must not anchor tarther ofl",
particularly if you are west of a little ravine where the steepness in the rocks round the
Bay of Thurin is interrupted, as at this place we found 1.50 to 180 feet water, and a bot-
tom of irregular rocks, on which many anchors have been lost.
The anchorage for merchantmen extends from Point St. Martha to the river Des Pe-
res, which bounds the city to the north. French vessels occupy the space south of the
Place Bertin, and foreign vessels north of this place. In these two parts of the road the
soundings having a very rapid increase towards the sea, you are obliged to come to an-
chor at a cable and a half's lenath from the shore, and to nujor by the head to an an-
chor carried on shore. It is important to bury your anchors very deep in the sand, that
they may resist the violent shock to which vessels arc cxposeil from the ground swell.
It is also necessary to take the; jirecaution to have your cables tight, to prevent your ves-
sel from changing Irer ]iosition,un<l avoid falling on board other vessels.
A little distant from the Place J'ortin, W. N. W. from the marine hospital, and at a
cable's length distance from the shore, is a bottom of rock called Hospital Key, and on
wliich foreign vessels -are obliueil to anchor. Its dejith gradually fliininishes in ap-
proaching the shore, but on llie western side it terminates abruptly by ati almost perpen-
dicular wall; SB that from 50 to ')'S feet, the soundings found ol'fthe key, you suddenly have
from 1()6 feet to 213 feet, which are immediately outside its western limits. It is neces-
sary to sound before anchoring on this key, and let go your anchor in 50 feet water, as
ingoing farther oil", at a cable and a half's length for example, you expose your cables
to be cut by the rocks which form the limits of this key.
North of this key, and in apjiroaching it from the river Des Peres, the anchorage be-
comes more and more diflicult, by reason of the declivity of the soundings. At less than
2^ cables' length from the mouth of this river, the deptlx is 550 feet, an I farther olFyou
will find no bottom with bOO feet.
Variation at Fort Royal Bay, 1824, 2= 47' N. E.
NORTH-EASTERN SIDE OF THE ISLAND TO ST. PIERRE.— Ships ad-
vancing from the eastward, off the north side of Martinique, generally take their de-
partme from La Carvaelle, or the ( arvel, a remarkable rocky islet, lying about H mile olT
the N. E. point. In running thence along the coast, you must cautiously avoid the ef-
fect of flurries, or sudden and partial gusts of wind, which frequently proceed from the
narrow openings of the mountains ; and if the top gallants are up you must keep a good
ilookout a^ter the halliards. For it is to be observed, generally, that the mountahis in-
tercept the course of the trade wind, and consequently occasion caltns and variable
ivinds to leeward.
This side of the island is well cultivated. You will distiuguish the plantations to the
very summit of the hills, which are themselves covered with trees and grass, excepting
«>nly the Mont Pelee, or Bald Mountain, the higli(>st of those hills, and the only one
that is barren.
Point Macouba, the northernmost point of the islanti, is distinguished by a waterfall,
or kind of torrent, ■falling ijito the sea from the top of a high rocky coast. About five
miles to the W. S. W. from Point Macoulia lies a round rock detached from the land,
■called the Pearl, to the southward of which an- tlie little isles, called those of Prcchciir,
or Preacher. Next follows the ])oint of the same name. Soon after Point PrcclnMir
presents itself, wltich ends in ,i flat hummock witli a iilantntion on it, then the tuwn uf
Le Precheur. Beyond Precheur Point yon will discern two others in a line, namely,
the Morne aux Bumfs, before mentioned, to the southward of the road of St. Pierre, an-d
the Diamond Rock, to the southward of Port I* oval.
Between the north end of the islaiul and St. Pierre, tliere are several villages, JU'O-
♦ected by batteries. The coast is very steep and clear of danger.
436
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Having doubled Point Precheur, you will descry the ships which lie at anchor in the
Koad of St. Pierre, as they all have awiiina:s to |irotect them from the intense lie;it of
the sun. You would taite them at first siijht for so many white houses, whose rool's are
built like a terrace; you cannot come to anchor close hauled : for tlie winds, whicli al-
ways prevail from the E. and E. N. E., v 11 compel you to traverse up to the road.
Remarks on the Navigation about Martinique, from the Derrotero de las Antillas, S^r.
The land of this island is high and rocky, and may be discerned at about 1.5 leagnes
off. Its eastern part is full of bays, but they afford little shelter, and are frequented by
coasters, only. From the South Point, or Point Salines, alon^^ the western coast, to the
North Point, Point Macouba, you may approach within a mile of the coast without am
danger.
The principal anchorages of Martinique are those of Port Royal and St. Pierre.
That of St. Pierre is an open roadstead, which affords shelter from the general breezes
only; and vessels that are obliged to remain in Martinique during the hurricane season,
go to Port Royal to pass it over. The Fortress, called Port Royal, is on a tongue oi
land, which runs nearly half a mile to the south into the sea; from the S. W. partoi
this tongue, a shoal of sand and rock stretches out, but it may be easily discovered In
the color of the water. By the eastern side of this point is the harbor and arsenal.
where vessels anchor in the greatest safety ; but they enter into it only in the season oi
hurricanes, or for the purpost; of careening ; its bottom is excellent, with a depth of from
6 to 10 fathoms. The city is about one fourth of a mile to the north of this point, and
at the sea side, on the west part, in Flamingo Bay, which is, therefore, the anchorajje for
merchant vessels; and, indeed, generally, for all vessels which are not to remain lonj
at Martinique.
If you approach Martinique on the north side, and mean to anchor in the Road in
St. Pierre, you may haul in as close as you choose for Macouba Point, and should rur,
along the coast afterwards so as to pass outside of the Islets du Seron, which lie on thf
N. W. point of the island; and from these you may shave the Point du Precheur,
(Preacher's Point,) within half a cable's length, in order to run and anchor in from oi
the town of St. Pierre, 6r a little to the south of it; keeping in mind that the coast i^
so steep, that half a cable's length from it you will have 4 or 6 fathoms water, and ,3.5 or
40 fathoms at 3 cables' length. Vessels moor with two anchors, one to the west in ."ij
or 40 fathoms, and one to the east in 4 or 5 fatlioms ; it is, however, better to have a ca-
ble on shore in place of the anchor to the east, that you may not drag with the stron;
gusts of wind which come over the land.
If you are bound to Port Royal, you will steer from Pointe Precheur to Morne aux
Boeufs, which is the south point of the Bay of St. Pierre : and from it you will sweep
along the coast to shave Point des Negres, (Negro Point,) from which you must haul to
wind all you can, in the understanding that, from the said point to Flamingo Bay, you
may shave the coast without any risk.
As it is necessary to beat up from Negres Point to the anchorage, keep in mind that
the shoal which runs out from Port Royal Point, extends to the west as far as the meri-
dian of a brook which runs into the sea, to the westward of the city : and thus, wlm
you mark the said brook at north you must not prolong the south tack further than D
bring Port Royal Point a little to the northward of east, but ought rather to go aboii:
before you bring it to bear east, and anchor on the other tack opposite the city. If yon
have to enter the harbor, it is advisable to take a pilot.
Those approaching Martinique from the southward, nuist steer so as to pass clofPin
the Diamond Rock and Point, and shave Cape Solomon, where the course is nearly
north, but nothing to the east of it, until Pointe Noire bears east; from this situation
you will haul by the wind to take Flamingo Bay, or enter into the harbor as may be re-
quisite, it being well understood that you can anchor in any part of the great bay.
If coming from the south and bound to St. Pierre, you must steer from Soloninii*
Cape to Morne aux Boeufs, hauling in to anchor to the S. W. of the town as already di-
rected.
It is almost a matter of indifference what part of Martinique you make : only in ca.'?
of the winds being free from the N. E. you may consider it preferable to make the north
tide.
The strait between St. Lucia and Martinique is clear of all danger; the breeze is a!'
ways steady in it, and its current is scarcely perceptible.
About a
high peaks
they lie vei
both, on CO
On the
northern c;
Islands, ha
been form(
above grou
hurricanes,
carry then
The shores
them.
Nearly a
Grand Bay
Islet: these
When bo
to the leew£
bor, then ru
dangers maj
Should yc
Bay, (Anse
bring Point
or lOfathen
into the sea.
unless after
The Islam
ficiently visi
may be seen
At the N.
rather more
Point and th
the Bay of
class of vess
at half a mi
for small ves
water. The
bles' length.
Near Breh
strait, practi<
the Gros Isle
coast, on the
out from it.
you may anc
where there
About am
tending nearl
its distance fi
western side
the Careenag
basbor in th«
io at andior in the
the intense licit n|
les, whose roots are
le winds, which al-
p to the road.
; las Antillas, S^r.
it about 15 leagncs
I are frequented bv
'cstern coast, to tlif
3 coast without any
ml and St. Pierre.
:lie general breezes
e hurricane season,
1, is on a tongue oi
, the S. W. partfii
jasily discovered U
aarbor and arsenni,
nly in the season oi
vith a depth of from
th of this point, anrl
e, the anchorage for
! not to remain lon»
0
}hor in the Road m
lint, and should rut
30, which lie on th'
Point du Preclieur,
d anchor in front of
ind that the coast i*
nis water, and ."^oor
ne to the west in 35
better to have aca-
rag with the stron;
leur to Morne aux
m it you will sweep
h you must haul to
lamingo Bay, you
keep in mind tk
t as far as the men-
y : and thus, when
t;irk further than to
rather to go aboin
te the city. If joii
as to pass close to
lie course is nearly
from this situation
larbor as may bare-
the great bay.
er from Solomon*
town as already di-
make : only in case
e to make the north
31- ; the breeze is al-
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
lite Island of St. Lucia.
437
St. Lucia bearing N. \V, by W. 3 or 4 leagues.
About a mile and a half to the west of the Sulphur Ilill, on the sea shore, stand two
high peaks, called by the French Les Pitons, and by the English the .Sugar I^oaves :
they lie very near each other, but between them there is opening enough to distinguish
both, oncoming from the southward.
On the western side of the island, at the distance of about three leagues from its
northern cape, is Port Castries or the Careenage, one of the harbors in the Windward
Islands, having deep water and good ground all over it. These careening places have
been formed by nature, which require no wharfs, aiul only a capstan to turn the keel
above ground. Thirty line-of-battle ships might lie securely here immoored, during the
hurricanes. No ships can enter without warping in; but there is always a breeze to
carry them out: and in less than an hour, the largest squadron may be in the offmg.
The shores are so bold, that a first rate man-of-war may approach whithin six yards of
them.
Nearly a league to the southward of the Careenage lies the Grand Cul de Sac, or
Grand Bay: and nearly two leagues to the northward of the same, is the Bay of Gros
Islet: these places form excellent roads for ships of war.
When bound from the northward to the Careenage, you will see a bluff two leagues
to the leeward, which may be approached boldly ; you must haul close in to see the har-
bor, then run into it as far as you can fetch and warp in. When the sun shines all the
dangers may be seen.
Should you have occasion to anchor off the south coast, you may do so in Old Fort
Bay, (Anse de Vieux Fort,) under the .S. E. bluff, unf > which you may turn till you
bring Point Moulacique, the southern Point, to bear S. S. W. and then anchor in 7, 8,
or 10 fathoms, good ground. At the north put of this bay there is a river, wliich runs
into the sea. If you water here, it must be by proceeding half a mile up with the boat;
unless after great rains, when you may fill at the entrance.
Remarks on St. Lucia.
[From the Derrotcro, &-c.]
The Island of Santa Lucia shows high, and in detached hills, with various peaks suf-
ficiently visible : in particular two, at its extreme S. W. jjart, called the Pitons, which
may be seen at the distance of sixteen leagues; they are black, and covered with tvood.
At the N. W. point of this island there is an islet, named the Gros Islet, which is
rather more than a mile distant from Point Salines, to the S. W. Between Salines
Point and the Gros Islet, there is a rock named Burgaux. To the south of the islet is
the Bay of Gros Islet, or Roadstead of St. Croix, with excellent anchorage for every
class of vessels, having a depth of from 17 fathoms down to 5 fathoms, which are found
at half a mile from the coast ; between the coast and the Gros Islet there is a passage
for small vessels only, it being impeded by a shoal, on which there are only 2 fathoms of
water. The Gros Islet is foul, and you ought not to approach nearer to it than two ca-
bles' length.
Near Brelotte Point, to the south of Gros Islet Bay, there is an islet, which forms a
strait, practicable for any vessel, it having 7 fathoms of water in it. This islet is, li'
the Gros Islet, foul, and you must not approach nearer to it than two cables' length ; tlus
coast, on the contrary, is clean, and a rock, which is also clean, lies about a cable's length
out from it. On all this coast there are from 8 to 1 0 fathoms, at half a mile frojn it, and
you may anchor in any part, though the safest anchorage is in the Road of St. Croix,
where there is good shelter from the sea.
About a mile and a half to the S. by E. of Brelotte Point, there is a rocky shoal, ex-
tending nearly in that direction, which is a mile itv length and about two cables in breadth ;
its distance from the coast is more than half a mile. This is the only danger on all the
western side ot ^f. Lucia, on which there are excellent anchorages, but principally in
the Careenage, which is two leagues to the S. by W. of the great islet, and the best
haifbor in the Lesser Antillas, with excellent anchorage, very clean, and three natural
f
>
/
''" 438
rlunt's
AMEUICAN COAST I'lI.OT.
coves in tlie interior, ;uid such steep shores fliat tliey niipht sei-ve ns wharves, or molo,
at whicli the liirgrsl iiion-or-war may Ix' liove down. Tills liarlior lias-, liowever, liicdis-
advantage tiiat yon cannot enter it except Ijv towinc; or warpinsr, it iicinj; impossllile to
beat in, on account of its narrowness; but, in exchange, it is easy to get out oC it even
with a large squadron ; as you must enter eitlinr towing or warping, it is suf'ticient to s;iv
that the south point sends out a very shallow tongue of sand to tlie N. W., and that the
North Point is deep and clean, and you may ap|)roaeh within a quarter of a cable's Icugih
of it, without (jiving a bertli to more tlian the rocUs which are seen.
The streight between this island and St. Vincent's is subject to tornadoes, and strong
currents to the W. N. W. ; and as Port Castries and the bay of St. (aoix are towiinln
the northern extremity of the island, it is advisable to make the land, when bound to
them, from the northward.
The Inland of St. VinccnCs.
t:ti^M/jita§m
St. Vincent bearing S. by W. about 4 leagues.
From Bequia to St. Vincent's the course is north about two leagues. The ckiniifl
between these two islands is very good to come tlirough, if bound frouiBarbadoes totln;
Salt Tortuga, or the Spanish INlain ; and there are small trading vessels which work up
through it. St. Vincent's is about five leagues long, and lies nearly N. and S. and K
and W. The iu)rtli end. which is much liiglier than tlie south part, is inhabited Iji
nbout 2000 natives or Caribs. t)n the north end there is a volcano, called La Smif.
friere, or Sulphur Hill, near Spanish Point. On the west side of the island, which is bolrf.
!ire several bays, having all of them fresh water rivers, and on the S. W. side you mat
good anchorage, as near or as far off as you please, especially in Kingston Pay, wlirn
the chief town is situated. J>ut the best bay of tJie island is Palair J$ay. When yet,
turn up between St. Viucf>nt's and Pequia, you will see a large blulf of land, and just ii
the windward of that is Palair 15ay, or Calliaqua. The shore is bold on each side,
Run into 19, ~0, or 15 fathoms and anchor. There are two rivers which run into \\v.
sea.
The course froui Carlisle Bay to the south end of St. Vincent's is W., northerly. 3"
leagues. If you intend to anchor in Kingston Bay, yoti will see a small high ])eakp(l
island, called Young's Island ; pass the bay to leeward of this island, and go roiiml a
long sloping point: you may borrow within pistol shot; but if the wind takes you slum.
you may anchor in 35 fathoms and warp in. There is a small ledge of rocks close on
the weather shore, within 6 fathoms.
On the west side of the island, which is bold, there are several bays, all of them hav-
ing fresh water rivers ; and on the S. W. side, ships may anchor at pleasure, especially
in Kingston Bay, on which the chief town of the island is situated.
Thebest bay, however, for shipping, is that railed Calliaqua. or Tyrrel's Bay, at tlie
luth end of the island. This may be known by a high blutf, wliich will be seen wlie:
rning up between St. \'inccnt's and Bequia, which lies on the leeward side of tlie bay.
The shore is here bold on each side. Rui; into 19, 20, or IS fathoms, and anchor.
There are two rivers, which run into the sea.
Kingston Bay is completely open to the S. W., and is more than a mile in breadth.
The town is at the head of the bay, close to the water side ; the anchorage good, tlif
soundings regular, with a bottom of dark sand, ajjparently cleai, and forming a ^ooJ
holding ground. The water is deep ou eacli side of the bay, and you may round the
eastern head, called the Old Womtm's Point, as close as you i)lcase, there being 20 la-
thoms at not more than 20 J feet fioiu the shore. The best anchorage for a frigate is
with the court-house betu-ing north, ii'l 19 or 20 fatlioms, not more than a quarter iil i
mile from the beach. There is a light current setting along the bay, but it is not regu-
lar. The tide rises al)out 4 feet. Fresh water is 'j;ood and easily obtained.
PBINCESS OK BARAWALLY BAY.— This little bay lies five and a half milcsto
the north-westward of Kingston, and its north side is formed by rocks called the Bottle iuin
Glass, between which and the main there is a passage for boats. There is no daiisenii
going in; and. in coming from the northward, you may haul close rouiul the Bottle ami
(jrlass. When round this point, lufl' up as much as possible, and you will open the town
barracks, bearing N. E. by E. ^ E., which may be kept thus tmtil the Bottle and Gla««
Point bears N. W. ; you will then be in aboui 22 fathoms, with sandy ground.
RO
tu
All along I
good ground
."; and lay youi
; in 32 fiuhou
'\ T.iKGR
ninuerable r(
16 or 18 leat
riuacou and
lies about G I
of about 6 m
Bequia, a
about 2 leag
hay, where y
but no water.
you may stai
N. by E. c
clear along tl
Observe th
ISLAND
on the easier
■•sels, as well i
The princi
is situated oi
formed by a ]
; the south. '.
I entirely clear,
• which lies a j
' of only 17 or
tance o/f the
The chief I
open and prot
The town c
talilishment.
On the son
•feudy, and 2
or Egmont II
ride in safety
its peculiar c
I'Tnely, the (
length" rather
excellent hole
lie alongside c
after which th
joys this pecii
In sailing o
westward of I<
neeessary to k
The (Trampus
rogue Point bi
sage within th
Ofl'the nort
and, there star
arch in it,) an(
avoided by ke
coast of the is
reef extends,
.f
*4
ST. GEOR
give Molenier'
BLUM' S A.MKIIICAN COAST TILOT.
439
h'.irvcs, or moles,
liowever, tliedis-
iiii^ iini)ossil)le lu
gel oiu oC it even
is sutViciciit to s;iv
W., and tliiitihe
of a cable's length
ladoes, and strong
("roix are towards
id, when bound to
lies. The chiinnc';
niliarbadoestotlii
sels which \vorku|
y N. and S. iindK
'rt, is inhabited l;
o, called La Soti'-
:land, which is bolil
W. side you maL
njj3ton ]5ay, wiien
r 15av. ^Vlien ymi
of la"iid, and just t"
bold on each side.
vhich run into ib
W., northerly. 3J
mall high iieakci!
, and go round a
ind takes you sliort.
of rocks close "ii
■s, all of them im-
pleasure, especially
\yycVs Bay, at ik
"will be seen wk;
.-ardside of the bay.
horns, and auclior.
. a mile in breadth,
ichorage good, tk
,nd forming a Si'**
fou may rouud tli"
there being 20 la-
cage for a frigate 1-
than a (|uarter td '
but it is not rcgii-
auicd.
and a half miles to I
called the Bottle ai: J
lere is no daiisei ''
und the Bottle ami i
I will open the town
le Bottle and Gla?'!
ly ground. ■
All along the Bottle and (llass side is rocky, but the bottom of the bay all sandy aiul
eood ground. If you moor in and out, which is used for ships of \v;u', you may warp in,
iind lay vour inner anchor in !•,» or i:i fathoms of water, and your outer anchor will be
in 3"2 fathoms. Moor a cable eiu'h wav.
TxiE GK.ANADINK8, OR (11? ANADILLOS— The(!ranidincs form a • haiu of in-
numerable rocks and barren spots, good for little, which extend to N. 1',. by .N. forabout
16 or 18 leagues. Sonu', however, are of considerable size and vahu^ particularly Ca-
riuacou and Hequia, both iidiabited, iuid producing goori colfee and cotton C^ariiiacou
lies about G leagues N. by K. I E. front tlie N. \V. of Grenada, it is of a circular torm.
of about b miles in length and breadth, and has a commodious harbor.
Bequia, called also Ijittle iM;u-tiiii'|ue, is the northerimiost of the (ireiiadiiies. and Wen
about 2 leagues south from St. Vincent's. On the west side it has a very good sandy
bay, where you may ride occasionally ; and wood is to be got there, witli plenty offish,
but no water. The little islands to the southward of |{e(|iiia are very fair, anil near them
you may stand boldly, having neither rock"^ nor dangers you need to fear.
N. by E. course from Toiiu Laurent, or the N. W. point of (irenada, w'.W carry you
clear along the (Iranadines.
Observe that towards the south part it is rather dangerous to come near in tlie night.
ISLAND OF GRENADA. — There is good anchoring grouiu! along the coasts, and
on the eastern and western sides are several small bays and creeks, commodious for ves-
sels, as well as for the landing and shipping of goods.
The principal town is that of S'i'. CrKOlMi K, in the S. W. quarter of the island, which
is situated on a bay of the same name, formerly (idled La (Jrande Bay. This bay is
formed by a point called Molenier's Boint, on the north, ard Oabrlt or (Joat Point on
the south. The di.stance between these points is 3.V miles. The space between is not
entirely clear, as a coral reef extends out to a considerable distance irom Point St. Eloi,
which lies a mile to the south-eastward of Molenier's Point ; and there is a sand bank,
of only 17 or 18 feet of water, on which coral is beginning to grow, at some little dis-
tance o(f the fort point, on the north side of the entrtmce to the hari)or.
The chief bay on the eastern side of the island, is that called Greenville Bay, which is
open and protected by extensive reels.
Tiie town of GREEN VILLE is a port of entry, having its distinct custom-house es-
tablishment. Th(! villiiges are generally on tlie slii|iping liays around the island.
On the south siile of the island, immediately on the western side of the Point of Fort
.leudy, and 2 leagues to the eastward of Salines Point, lies the harbor called Calavine
or Egmont Harbor, which is very deep, and -vvhere, it is said, sixty men of war could
ride in safety wi'liont anchors. Theentiance is nearly half a mile in breadth. Within,
its peculiar conformation is such, that it may be considered as forming two harbors,
namely, the Outer and Inner Ports. The entrance into the hitter is narrow, and its
length rather more than luilf a mile. The depth in the greater part is 7 fathoms, with
excellent holding ground, being every where a soft oozy bottom. The ships may hero
lie alongside of the warehouses, and take in tl'^'ir lading with great ease and convenience ;
after which they may, with very little trouble, be towed into the outer harbor, which en-
joys this peculiar advantage, that shi|)s rnu sail in or out with the common trade wind.
In sailing off the south side o' the island, there is little danger until you get to the
westward of Foit Jeudy Point. But thence to the rocks named the (>rampuses, it is
necessary to keep a good offing, as the ground in-shore is very foul, and full of reefs.
The Grampuses lie about three quarters of a mile off the land, with the point called Pi-
rogue Point bearing N. -\ W. They appear just above the surface, and there is a pas-
sage within them, but it Is not deemed safe.
Off the north side of the island, in the channel between it and Redonda, or Round Isl-
and, there stands a remarkable rock, called London Bridge, (from itshaving a natural
arch in it,) and from the south side of which extends a reef. This rock may be easily
avoided by keeping over to the north side of the channel. Hence and along the west
coast of the island, the shore is bold, all along to the point of St. Eloi, whence a coral
reef extends, as before explained.
Pt. David.
t'rison. Redonda.
La Tcnto.
Pierced Rock.
Islets off the north end of Grenada.
ST. GEORGE'S BAY.— When sailing into St. George's Bay, from the northward,
give Molenier's Point a small berth. Vou may run within half a cable's length of if, in
r
V/ 440
DLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
a
y or ') fiithoms. The point is low, with some straggling trees on it, and makes like an
island. When \wax the point you will see St. (ieorge's Fort, bearing S. S. E. Keep
your lull' for the I'ort, and when you cannot (etch ne;ir enough to anchor, with the fort
bearing east, tack, or you will be in danger of running on the three-fathom bank, before
noticed. The soundings are very regular from Molenier's Point — some casts 20, 13, (|.
.^nd Ivi fathoms ; and in shore, towards the fort, from 9 to 5 fathoms, the bottom is foul.
To sail within the three-fathom bank or middle ground, you may be directed by two
white houses, over the town, about half way up the hill. Keep them open with the
north end of the fort, and run directly in, until you see a single tree to the southward,
upon a iittio hill, open a good sail's breadth to the northward of a large tree close tothe
shore ; you will then be within the bank, and may pass the fort point at the distance of
hah d cable's length, in 4 and 5 fathoms. In the mouth of the harbor there are 16 fj.
thoms of water, but it shoalens very fast to the southward.
The best anchoring ground in St. (ieorge's Bay, is olf the mouth of the harbor, nt
about a calde's length from the fort, with the two white houses, above mentioned, open
to the southward of the fort ; but if you anchor in the bay olf the town, the houses must
be open to the northward of the fort and bear E. S. E.
li. advancing towards St. (xeorge's Harbor from the southward, it must be observed
that after passing Point de Salines, there is a very dangerous coral reef lying between
that point and Goat Point, witli only 2 or 'A feet over it, in the shoalest part. This bank
lies witli the signal stall" of Fort St. George in one with a house that has two 'utle tur-
rets or pavilions, situated on the top of a hill a little to the eastward of the redoubts on
Hospital Oill. With this mark you will be in a line with the reef, and must give it ?n
olHng. The bank is about a mile in length, lying parallel with the shore. Within it
there is a narrow channel, through which small craft frequently pass.
In running from the eastward, towards Point de Salines, you will see islet Ramenr, a
very small island lying rallier more than half a mile from the nearest shore, and neariya
mile from the point. (Jive that isirt a berth of a mile, and do not attempt to pass within
it, as the passage is shoal. To Point de Salines it is sufficient to give a berth of half j
mile, as at that distance there are 7 fathoms water. So soon as you pa^s the point, the
bay will be open. Y ou iiir«t now carefully avoid the bank above described, which von
will have passed, when a rei.,arkable liousc, like a suirnner house, \\\w\\ a high point cjose
to the end of the reef, bears S. E. On the hank the sea freijuently breaks.
To sail into the harbor you leave the three-fathom shoal, as before directed, on the
starboard hand, and run in close under the fort, and then warp up. The ground is all
clear, and the harbor capable of containing, with the utmost safety, a large fleet ofships
of the line.
You will generally be obliged to work up into the bay, as it lies open to the westward,
and the trade wind blows directly outward. The true entrance of the port is from W,
S.W.
GREENVILLE BAY. — This port lies about halfway down the island, on the east-
ern side, and all those bound for it must be very cautious, and not go to leeward ofit;
for if they do, they must pass round Point de Salines, and turn to windward, on the other
side of the island, as the current sets so strongly to the southward that, with the pre-
vailing winds, the fastest sailing vessel cannot lead up. Tliey should heave to, a little
to windward of the Greenville Rock, which lies to the north-eastward, (off Telescope
Point,) and is round, pretty high and steep on all sides. Upon firing a signal, a pilot
will come off, and take charge of the ship.
The marks for going in are two white beacons, formed at the head in shape of a dia-
mond. One stands at the head of the bay, and south end of the town, at high wstet
mark ; the other a little inland on the side of the road leading over the mountains. Thev
bear, when in a line, N. 74° W. By keeping them thus you may run directly in, under
an easy sail. Be careful to steer very small, as the channel between the rocks is very
narrow, not being a ship's length across. After you are through the narrow, if jour
fihip draws more than 13 feet, you must come to at the mooring chain and lighten.
This harl)or, to those acquainted with it, is safe and commodious, being sheltered
from all winds. Yet it is impracticable to a stranger, the lead being no guide; and if
you once get too near the rocks, the current sets so strongly that you cannot get off
.•igain.
Remarks on Grenada.
[From the Derroterode las Antillas, &c.]
Any part of Grenada may be safely approached to within less than two miles. On its
western coast are many bays fit for anchoring in, but the principal is that in which stands
the town and harbor of ST. GEORGE, or Port Royal. This bay is about one league
from the Salines, or the S. W. Point. Between that point and Fort St. George, there
if a rocky sh
iVoiH N. E.
there are 6 s
from Point (
(ioat Point,
(teorge's Ba
greatest brea
(0 it are bj ai
The western
mile. The!
b'y W., truf
bank is three
Beiiind thi
length in de|
place is as w
can haul alori
(irenada n
by the S. W
To the soi
the water's si
of a mile froi
may keep cle
is an islet nai
cable's lengtl
out Glover's
soon as you
ward, and ph
the Fort St.
point OD vvhii
beat up bctwe
south of the I
out some rod
The anchoi
you may let g
equally find c
in this place,
go into the hn
Some chart
45 fathoms.
set S. 70° W.
Barbadoes, '
moderate heigl
island may be
lower than the
■, the island bear
I appears the hij
I cliiies towards
1 ged and brokei
I The S. E. c
;. ledge of rocks i
extend about a
South Point, w
it runs off abov
tends by the wl
The principa
little rivulet on
BLUNT S ASIEP .AN COAST PILOT.
441
md makes like an
r S. S. E. Keep
•.hot, with the fort
ihom bank, before
ne casts 20, 13, 'I.
he bottom is foul.
le directed by two
m open with the
to the southward,
e tree close to the
at the distance of
)r there are 15 fj.
of the harbor, jt
; mentioned, open
n, the houses must
must be observed
•eef lying between
,t part. This bank
has two 'ttle lur-
of the redoubts on
md must give it ?n
shore. Within it
>e islet Ramenr, a
ihore, and nearly a
mpt to pass within
e a berth of Haifa
pa^^s the point, the
jcribed, which \ou
1 a high point close
reaks.
6 directed, on the
The ground is ail
large fleet of ships
n to the westward.
16 port is from \V,
island, on the east-
0 to leeward of it;
ward, on the other
that, with the pre-
d heave to, a little
ird, (off Telescope
ng a signal, a pilot
in shape of a dia-
own, at high w?.ter
B mountains. Thev
directly in, under
n the rocks is very
he narrow, if your
1 and lighten.
is, being sheltered
no guide ; andil
you cannot get olf
two miles. On its
hat in which stands
about one league
St. George, there
iiai rocky shoal and banks of sand, with coral. The rocky shoal is half a mile in extent
from N. E. to S. W., and its greatest breadth is two cables' length. On ail its edges
there are 6 and 7 fathoms. It bears N. '23° E., true, three quarters of a mile distant
from Point de Saliues, and the northernmost part of it lies nearly W., or W. by N. from
(ioat I'oiiu, at about three cables' length. Goat Point is the southernmost point of St.
George's Bay. The first sand bank is a mile in extent, N. by E. and S. by W., and its
greatest breadth is three cables' length. The least water on it is 3| fathoms, and close
(u it are ().i and 7 fat''onis. Between it and the coast the (li|)th increases to 10 fathoms.
The western extremity lies nearly north from Goat Point, and at the distance of half a
mile. The second bank, on which there are not more than .'3 fathoins of water, lies S.
59^ W., true, from the fort, at the distance of half a mile. The greatest extent of this
bank is tluee cables' length.
Behind the point on which the fort stands, is the harbor, which is only three cables'
length in depth, and into which vessels go to load and unload, or to be careened. This
i)liice is as well sheltered as the best harbor can be, and vessels of the greatest burthen
can haul alongside the shore, in a depth of 8 or It) fathoms.
(irenada may be seen at the distance of 7 or 8 leagues; and as the principal harbor is
by the S. W. jioint, the best way is to make and haul in for its south side.
To the south of Point Pirogue, on the south coast, there are some rocks even with
the water's surface, which are called the (grampuses, and which lie out about two thirds
of a mile from the point. At night it is necessary to be certain how you run, that you
may keep clear of them. To the westward of Pirogue Point, nearly half a league, there
is an islet named Glover's Island, which is very clean, and has 4^ fathoms of water, at a
cable's length from it. To take St. George's Bay, you ought to pass about a mile with-
out Glover's Island, and at half a mile with Point de Salines, steering to the north so
soon as you have passed the latter, until Goat Point bears east ; then luff to the east-
ward, and place the prow to Point St. Eloi, which is about a mile to the northward of
the Fort St. George. Thus you will pass salely outside the shoals. So soon as the
point on which the fort stands bears east, you will have passed the last shoal, and may
beat up between it and Point St. Eloi, taking care neither to prolong the tacks to the
south of the fort, nor within less than two cables' length of St. Eloi's Point, wliich sends
out gome rocks to the west.
The anchorage is to the west of the town, at a quarter of a mile from the coast, where
vou may let go an anchor in 6 or 9 fathoms. The bottom is very various, for you may
equally find clay, sand, or rocks. Vessels inteiuling to make a short stay only, bring to
in this place, with only one anchor ; but those which have to make a stay and unload^
go into the harbor, where they moor with four.
Some charts depict a bank and shoal to the S. W. of Point de Salines, with 13 and
45 fathoms. In the strait between Grenada and Tobago, the water has beer, found to
set S. 70° W. with the velocity of a mile and a half an hour.
The Idand of Burhadues,
Barbadoes bearing W. N. W. about G leagues.
Barbadoes, which lies out of the line, and to windward of the Caribbee Islands, is of
moderate height, ar d generally level, although there are a ^e\\ hills, of easy ascent. The
island may be seen in fine clear weather 10 or 11 leagues off. The east end is much
lower than the other parts; but on coming from the eastward, or when the north end of
the island bears W. by N, and the S. W. point about W. S. W., then the eastern part
appears the highest. From the eastern part to the southward, the land is even, and de-
clines towards the sea; but between the eastern and northern points, it is uneven, rug-
ged and broken.
The S. E. coast from South Point to Kitriages on the eastern point, is enclosed by a
ledge of rocks called the Cobblers, from one of the most remarkable among them. They
extend about a mile from shore, and you must be careful to avoid them in the night. At
•South Point, where the rocks terminate, there is a flat spit, which must have a berth, as
'^ it runs off above a mile to the W. S. W. In the daytime you may see how far it ex-
tends by the white water.
The principal town of Barbadoes is that called Bridgetown, situated at the mouth of a
little rivulet on the north side of Carlisle Bay, upon the S. W. side of the island.
56
442
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Those bound to Bridgetown should always endeavor to make the south side of tlm
island by sailing on or near tlie jiarallel of i:}*^'. In the latitude of Harbadoes, at iihont
70 or 80 leagues to the eastward, you will find the water discolorfd anrl thick, as if thpre
were soundings, though there are none ; l)y this indication, if met with, your siniatini,
will be nearly ascertained. When you approach the island, you may run along with;,,
three miles of the shore, until you advance towards Needham's Point, which forms i|„,
south side of Carlisle Hay. Vou may haul up and anchor in Osten's Kay to the wpst.
ward of South Point, by avoiding the spit above described, where you will find groiinii
in 7, H, 9, or 10 fathoms water. "This bay is rocky ; but the best ground, which is tn|f.
rably good, lies with a mill close by the water side, at the head of the bay, bearing E,|„.
N., or E. N. E.
In Carlisle Bay, also, the ground is tbul, and apt to chafe the cables. In haulinjrin
for this place, give Needham's Point a berth of a (|uartcr of a mile, to avoid a reef v, |ij,|,
Btrelches from it, and always breaks. You may then run in till you bring Charles Fon,
on Needham's Point, t» bear S. E., and ^he steeple N. N. E.
There is, also, anchorage in this bay, in 23 fathoms, fine sandy bottom, with Ncedhnn;'*
Point, S. E. J S. the church N. N. E. and the N. W. point of the bay N. W. by N.
The long mark for the reef of Needham's Point is a house standing upon the hill alioi,
the north end of the town, open with the outermost or southernmost flag staff on Npni
ham's Point ; and the thwart-mark is the three flag-staffs in one. With the above nipn
tioned house on the hill open to the northward of the church, the ground is foul, hutif,
the southward it is more clear; and with that house just open to the southward of tb
church, there is an anchorage in about 12 fathoms; the other marks for which are, aroHii
to the eastward of the town directly open, the fort S. S. E. A E. and Pelican Point N
W. by N. The tide is almost imperceptible.
On the leeward side of the island, N. N. W. from the northern part of Carlisle Bay, ar*
several shoals, called the Pelican and Half Acre Shoals, the outennost of which lieabnc:
three quarters of a mile off".
Before Speightstown, which lies between eight and nine miles to the rorthwardti
Bridgetown, and which is defended by three forts, vessels occasionally ride.
There is a bank lying about three hundred miles to windward of Barbadoes, callf-
Glassioniercs, from the name of the French Admiral who first reported it, but subseqiiet:
information confirms it.
TOBAGO, like Barbadoes, lies out of the line, and to windward of the Caribboe !<
lands. The land in the northern part is so high as to be seen, in clear weather, atih'
distance of fifteen leagues.
ThoUjjh Tobago docs not possess any harbors, properly so called, yet it has several
good bays ; which, considering that from their southern latitude they are never expospii
to dangerous gales of wind, are equally convenient and secure to shipping. Fortius
reason, the men of war stationed at the Caribbee Islands frequently repair hither forsalm
in tyje hurricane months.
The principal towns are Scarborough and Georgetown, situated on the south side oi
the island, and its best roadstead is in Man of War Bay? on the north side. The vcrtin!
rise of the tide, on the full and change, is only four feet. The currents near the island,
are very strong and uncertain, especially between it and Trinidad. The N. E. tnide-
wind prevails all the year round.
The course usually taken from the island of Barbadoes to the S. E. side of TohaEo,
is south rather easterly, so as to allow for the current, which sets most frequently to tit
N. W. and so as to get several leagues to windward of the island.
If you make Tobago towards the evening, and are afraid of running in with it, you mm!
not, by any means, lie to, but stand to the southward under an easy sail, otherwise the
current, which always sets eitlier to the N. W. or N. E. may nccasion your losing sid!:
of the island ; and it is possible that a N. W. current may carry you so far to leeward j>
to render it difficult to regain it.
Ships bound to the bays on the N. W. side, sliould always endeavor to make ilie
north end of the island, which is bold and clear. A cluster of large bold rocks, cM.
Melville's Rocks, lies off' the N. E. point. Of these the westernmost is very remarkalile.
having a large hole in it. from north to south. You may run as near to these rocks as
you choose, and along the coast hence to the Man of War Bay.
MAN OF WAR BAY.— This bay is not only the best in Tobago, but is oneoftlip
best harbors in the West Indies, having sufficient depth for the largest ships close to t|w
shore. The distance from Melville's Rocks to North Point on the N. E. side oUU-
bay, is about three miles. In sailing in, haul round this point, when you will have the
bay open, and you must be careful not to be taken aback, the wind being very fluttering
under the high land.
You will find uu soundings until close up in the bay, and thea from 40 to 10 fatliuiui'
.^ Having (
' in. vou wd
ei
dl
. buy an you
If 17 fathoms.
In I'irate's I
(Jn the so
mile from si
there is a gr
The weste
' the ('ardiua
the bay.
Nearly tw(
Hay, are son
a half from tl
wliicb there
of the rocks,
COURT I
the island, e>
ern point of
■- Sisters. Ti
breaks at low
ill ') or 10 fat
I only that the
hangs to the
much. In tl
during night.
: lind very goo
•' lar soundings
I To the sou
anchorage wi
smoothly her
Between M
tuvier's Bay,
seis of one hi;
At the S. V
anchor in 6 fa
, without the re
Point, and is i
the current m
breakers you
having passed
EASTER?
lies the small i
Within these i
may anchor in
foul, and the (
ships must, th
most constant
At the dista
Point, and rat
(Queen's Islam
anchoring grr
water. The 1;
from the eastv
out is early in
the northward
South-wcsti
called Richmc
tion, is a lessei
, points of the (
dry rock, calle
the Roxburg I
the N. W. of
I hereafter. Fr
i bank and reef,
I several places,
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
443
le south side of tlm
{iirbiuloes, at :il)i,|,t
nd tliick, as il'iliprp
ivitli, your sitURtinn
ny run along ^\'nh'v.
nt, whirh lornisilif
I's Bay tn the wpsi.
on will fiiKl grniiiid
mnd, which is mlf.
; bay, bearing K.hv
)les. [n haniinjrin
n avoid a rppf \,lii(i|
bring Charles Fort,
m, with NeedhaiTi'(
ly N. W. by N.
; upon tlif liill ;ilinu
t flag staft'on Nph
Vith the above nifn
round is foul, buiio
lie southward of tb
for which are, aronii
id Pelican Point N
; of Carlisle Bny, art
St of which lie abnc:
to the rorthward i
lly ride.
]f Barbadoes, calif
?d it, but subsequet;
of the Caril)l)ppls.
?lear weather, atife
yet it has several
are never exposfc
shipping. For till!
lair hither for salei)
n the south sirieoi
ide. Tlie vertical
3iits near the island,
The N. E. trade-
E. side of Toba£o,
5st frequently toik
in with it, you mm!
sail, otherwise i!;e
in your losing sidi;
so far to leeward a^
leaver to ninketlif
e bold rocks, calW
is very remarkalile.
lar to tliese rocks a*
TO, but is oneoftliP
?st ships close toll!'"
N. E. side oftlii>
I you will have the
leing very flutteriuj
40 to 10 fathciui'
Having entered, turn in and anchor as far to windward as you can. After you are sljut
in, voii will see the little bay on Uic eastern side called Pirate's Cay ; -Tct as near to that
b;u as you can: you will lind all clear ground, and may anchor in Iroin 12 to 14, IG or
17 tailioni'*- If you cannot turn in, you may anchor in 'Jii or 10 fathoms, and warp up.
In I'ir.ite's Bay, is the waterint; place in the rainy season.
(Jii the south shore of the i)ay you may anchor in 1') or H fathoms, at a (piarter of .1
mile from shore, and have good water at all times, half a mile froui the anchorage; but
there is a great surf which uuikes watering hazardous.
The western side of the bay is a good place for (ishing; but there is n small shoal called
the (.'ardiual, lying within half a mile of the shore on that side about half-way dowu
the bay.
Nearly two miles to the westward of Point Corvo, the western point of Man of War
Bay, are some bold rocks, called the Brothers; and in the same direction, at a league and
a half from that point, are some others of the same description, called the Sisters, close to
wliicli there is a deptli of 40 fatiioms. All the coast hereabout is l)old to. From abreast
of the rocks, the south-west end of the Island, which is low and sandy, may be seen.
COUllTLAND BAVS, — The first bay from the northward, on the western side of
the island, excepting a few for small vessels, is that called ( treat (Jourtland Bay, the north-
ern point of which, called (luaua Poiiu, lies thirteen uiiles to the south-westward of the
Sisters. To tiiis poiui a berth must be given, as a rock, called the Beef Barrel, which
hreaks at low water, lies just off it. There is anchorage in 0 fathoms, but good fishing
in 0 or 10 fathoms, either with the seine or with the hook and line. The ground is clear,
only that there are a few stumps of trees close up to the mouth of the river. Jf the wind
hangs to the southward of east, you will ride very roughly, and if at N. E. will roll very
much. In the bay you will have the cf)mm(m trade wind all day, and an off-shore breeze
during night. If you arrive in the night, anil do not care to push lor the bay, you may
fnid very good anchorage to windward of the cliff, in from six to twenty fathoms, regu-
lar soundings.
'J\) the southward of (iroat Courtlaml T5ay is Tjittle Courtland Bay, having very good
anchorage within the windward point, vvhieli is pretty bold. Vessels ride more safe and
smoothly liere than in the former.
Between Man of War Bay and Courtland Bay, are the bays called Bloody Bay, Peale-
ttivier's Bay, Englishman's Bay and Castaua JBay, which have safe anchorage for ves-
sels of one hundred and fifty tons.
At the S. W. end of Tobago is Sandy Point Bay, in the bottom of which ships may
anchor in 6 fathoms. When you weigh for this place, be sure of a breeze to carry you
without the reef, called the Buckoo, whichexteuds from Little Courtland Bay to Brown's
Point, and is dry in some places, at the distance of two miles from sliore. If it be calm
the current may set you on this reef. At the distance of two cables' length from the
breakers you will be safe to enter Brown's Point Bay, haul close round the reef, and
having passed the point, anchor as above.
EASTERN COAST.— About three and a half miles S. S. E. from Melville's Rocks
lies the small island called Little Tobago, near which there are several islets and rocks.
Within these is the bay called Tyrrel's Bay, in the bottom of which vessels of 150 tons
may anchor in 7 fathoms. The ground between Little Tobago and the main, is very
foul, and the currents very stronii and uncertain. In sailing off this part of the coast,
ships must, therefore, keep well to the southward, allowing for a N. W. current which al-
most constantly prevails al)0Ut Little Tobago.
At the distance of three and a half miles to the southward of Little Tobago is Pedro
Point, and rather less than two miles from Pedro Pidiit lies a high rocky islet, called
Queen's Island. Between these points is the bay called King's Bay, which has good
anchoring grouiul in every jiart within the windward point, in from (> to 20 fathoms of
water. The land on the eastern side, being high, intercepts the trade wind, and the swell
from the eastward is apt to set a vessel down to the leeward point; the best time to sail
out is early in the morning about daybreak, when the wind blows fresh from the land on
the northward.
South-westward from Queen's Island at the distance of a league, lies a similar islet,
called Richmond Island ; and one league and a half from the latter, in the same direc-
tion, is a lesser islet called Smith's Island. These islets, being situated off projecting
points of the coast, are conspicuous. Nearly a mile west of Queen's Island is a large
dry rock, called the Roxburg, and between lies the bay, named Queen's Bay. Between
the Roxburg Rock and Richmond Island is Hog Bay, in which the ground is foal. To
the N. W. of Richmond Island is the little bay called Halifax Bay, which is noticed
hereafter. From Halifax Bay, extending nearly to Smith's Island, there is a dangerous
bank and reef, half a league broad, call,etl the Great River Shoal, on which the depth, ia
sereral places, is only three fathoms.
444
n,
nLIJNT*S AMERICAN COAST J'lLOT.
In running down for Queen's Bay, which iiea within Qtieen'^ Isiiind, "s above men-
tioned, give the latter a good bertii until y'"i open ii lai^e house, havini); a gallery on,
rising gtound fronting the quay, whirh in tiie only one of that description \\\ the hav
Continue on this, without borrowing, until you bring tluH house in a lino with otio m,
the hill above ; and keep this mark on, if the wind permits, until you are i rabies' Icniili
from the shore ; then haul your wind and anchor at about lf)t( lathouis fntni shore m ,
fathoms, hne ground, abreast of the watch-house on the beach. .Should the wind be nil-
verse, you must let go an anchor and warp up. In sailing outward, attend to the saiu?
mark as in sailing in, without getting over to windward.
The dan^rcrs are so numerous, from (Queen's Hay to the west end of the island, thai
no stranger should ventnre without a pilot. The most accessible b»ys are thos« il?
scribed as follow:
Halifax liay, to the N. \V. of Richmond Island, as before mentioned, is a good bv
for vessels of 1.50 tons, but a shoal lies in the middle of the entrance. The next:.
called Barbadoes Bay, and lies to the leeward of Smith's Island. To avoid (ireat Ri^i
Shoal in sailing for Barbadoes Bay, or to the westward of it, keep Little 'J'obago opf;
without Richmond Island, with Smith's Island bearing N. \V., you may lulf tij) f(iril»
bay, on cautiously avoiding a reef of coral rocks, which stretches to the distance w. ,
cable's length from (Iranby b'ort I'oint, on the windward side. Within this reef, beliu^
Georgetown, there is good ground in from 1'-' to 7 fathoms; particularly witli a silk \»\-
ton-tree on the beach in a line with the flag-staff on the top of the liill.
Rocky iiay, on which the town of Sc.'arborough is situated, is a deep bay, gencnilv
safe; but a heavy swell rolls in with the breeze, especially when it is to tlie soutlm
east. It lies five and a half miles to the westward of Barbadoes Bay. In sailiiigiij
wards this place, keep Little Tobago open of Ricluiiond Island, as above directed, ;i
avoid Great River Shoal ; and next observe that the Chesterfield Rock is a danger whid
must, also, be cautiously avoided. This is a sunken rock, having only 7 feet oven
and on which the sea fretpieiitly break'*. It lies at half a mile from shore, about twoiiii.
a half miles to the southward of Granby Fort Point, and at the same d'stance to win;
ward of the east side of Rockly Bay. You may sail clear within it, with Richmond l-i-
and open between .Stuith's Island and the main; and without it, by keeping Richmnn.
Island open without Smith's Island; for Richmond and Smith's Islands, in a line, lea.
directly on it.
When past the Chesterfield Rock, you haul in for .Scarborough Point, wliich is a bole
bluff point, with a fort on the hill. There is no danger, provided you keep the wenilr
shore well on board, till you open the main street, which extends directly up llie lul
With this mark you may anchor in from 7 to !) fathoms, being the only clear part of the
bay. It is requisite, even here, to buoy up the cables. No stranger should attempt t
leave the harbor without a pilot, as it would be extremely hazardous. The channelbe-
tween Scarborough Point and the reefs is less than three quarters of a mile in breadtli
and the dangers extend thence to the end of the island.
In the Channel, between Tobago and Trinidad, is a bank or shoal, on which 51 1«-
thorns have been found, and the pilots assert that there are places on it with still le>>
water ; it has been sounded with great care, but less than 5i fathoms liave not been I'ouni
It is, however, advisable to run with caution; for it is not impossible thai there inavbf
some rock, of small extent, which has escaped notice. In this channel or strait, tin
current runs to the westward at the rate of two miles per hour ; but so that when af
proaching Trinidad, the direction of the current is towards the N. W. and near Tobajfi
towards the .S. W. On the N. E. part of Tobago the current sets to the north-we*!
ward with more velocity than is stated above.
w
THE ISLAIVD OF TKIIVIDAD AND GULF OF PABIA.
Compiled chiefly from the Directions and Survey of Captain Columbine.
AU the bearings given, whether points or degrees, are true bearings, unless otherwise expresEed.
THE ISLAND OF TRINIDAD is of considerable magnitude, containing, accord-^
ing to computation, 2012 square British statute miles. It presents a front to the east-
ward of nearly 42 geopraphic miles, from Point Galere to Point Galeota, its N. E. ami
S. E. extremes; the latter bearing from the former S. 7|° W. From Point Oalenta
the South Coaat exteuda 56 miles westward to Point Icaque, or Icacos ; and from the
iMler to >
N. .N.E.d
miles to th.
which may
ward above
mountains,
middle of t
of the islari
GIXF <
larije space
classes; as
venient de
north the o
some islam
are danger
NOKTK
dad stretcl
miles to I'd
All this coa
steep moun
heavy surf
places. Tl
wards the w
which exten
that of Mar
t.'947feetab(
eastward art
'JUOO.
Between ]
sets into the
gerons to an
the first froii
water. slielt(
3 miles to th
The next is '
this is also ..
descend fron
point of this
is Isle aux V
there is and
IJ mile from
ward of it a s
9 nii'es to th
MARACC
IG to 10 fath
sand, near tl
than any oth
Two miles fV
half that in
bay, on whic
Chupara. I
thorns water,
large house
than Maracc
sudden shift!
POINT C
nearly east a
is a rock, or
eastward froi
eastward, bei
entrance of
eastward, is
the little Riv
same directi(
same descrip
to the shore,
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
445
^lanil, ^s nbovp nipn-
liiivinn 11 i;iill<'ry on a
ncriplinn iti i\w lia\
in a line with otic i,\,
I are '2 cables' Icntjtii
utn\n Cnini shorr iti ,
lould the wind he m-
I, attend tu the kiuik
nd of the island, ilui
e bsys are thos« d?
tinned, is a jjnofi bu
traiiee. 'I'he imxi...
J'o avoid (ireat Rui
Little 'J'obajio o|ip,
I may lufV tip fonl-
to the distance di ,
ithin this reef, heii,^
jlarly with a silk (di
tiiil.
deep bay, penenllv
it is to the soiitJui
Bay. In sailing it
as above directed,;!
nek is a dancer whid
g only 7 feet oven
shore, about twoai,.
iriK! d'stance to wii,
, witii Kichiiionil l-
y keeping RiclinioL
dands, in a line, lea.
'oint, which is a bole
'ou keep the weallir
directly up ilie lull
only clear part ofili!
:er should attempt t:
IS. The chai'nelljp-
of a mile in breadih
loal, on which 51 li-
on it with still le«
lave not beenl'ouni
e that there may bf
lannel or strait, liit
ut SO that when ap-
V. and near Tobago
ts to the north-we*i
^ OF PABIA.
Columbine.
otherwise expressed.
1, containing, accord-
J a front to the east'
aleota, its N. E. and
Vom Point (lalenta
■cacoa : and from the
IfAtft to Mono Point, which i« the N. W. extremity of the island, it is 43 miles in ji
N. N. K- direction. The North ('oast extcnils eastward iVoni iMono I'oint, about 46
Hides to that of (iaiere. A range of high inoiintaiiis extends all along the North (Joast,
whii'li may be neen at the distance of 11 or I'J leagues; and these stretch to the south-
ward above 3 leagues on the Kast (.^oast. The south side is also bordered by a range of
uutiintains, but considerably inferior in height to tnose on the north side; and near the
middle of the Kast Coast is another range extending to the \V. S. W. The other parts
of the island are principally low and level land, wiiii some savannas.
(U'LF OF I'AKIA. — Between the island of Trinidad and the main land, there isa
large space or opening, called the tJulf of Paria, iffording secure shelter to ships of all
classes: as they may anchor in any part of it witliout the smallest risk, and in any con-
venient depth of water. This great (iiilf may be entered by two channels, erne to the
norili the other to the south: that to the north is <livided into several small channels by
some islands; anil that to the south has an islet in it surrounded by rocky slioals, which
are dangerous.
NOUTH COAST OF TRINIDAD.— From Point (Jalere, the North Coast of Trini-
dad stretches first S. 85p W. '2') miles to Point Cliui)ara, and thence S. HP W. 14^
miles to Point Coro/.al ; whence it bends to S. M\'^ W., about 4 miles to Point Mona.
All tliii coast is bounded by rocky shores, and, with the exception of a small |)art, with
steep mountains thickly covered with wood, close down to the sea, which breaks in a
heavy surf along the whole extent, and renders landing impossible, except at very tew
' places. The land immediately about Point (iaiere is not al)ove .'iOfeet high ; it rises to-
\ wards the west, and about Toco begins to connect itself with the chain of mountains
which extend along the whole North (Joast, from Rio (irande to the Bocas. Of these,
that of Maraccas, called by the Spaniards Cerro de las (Juevas, is the highest, being
■ i.'947 feet above the surface of the sea, and not two miles from ' he sea coast : those to the
' eastward are estimated from '2000 to 2500 feet high, and those o tho westward at less than
Between Mono Point and that of Chupara there arc some bays; but so much swell
sets into them, and the wind is so uncertain and light close to the shore, that it is dan-
gerous to anchor a ship in any of them, except in Escouvas and Maraccas. Of these,
the first from the westward is Macaripe, a cove in which there are from 7 to .3' fathoms
water, sheltered from the N. E. winds, and defended by two batteries: this lies about
3 miles to the eastward of Mona Point, and one mile to the westward of Point Corozal,
'i The next is Chute d'Eau, at the distance of 5 miles to the eastward of Point Corozal;
this is also .. small sandy cove, deriving its name from some rills of water, which, as they
descend from the hills, are projected over the rocks in various directions. DiX the east
point of this cove is an islet of the same name; and about 1^ mile to the eastward of it
is Isle aux Vaches, an islet lying close to the east point of another cove or bay, in which
there is anchorage in from 12 to 8 fathoms, sheltered from N. N. E. winds. About E.
IJ mile from Isle aux Vaches, is the west point of Maraccas Bay, having to the east-
ward of it a small bay called Mai d'Estomac, in which there is no shelter : this point lies
9 mi'es to the eastward of Point Corozal.
MARACCAS BAY. — This bay is a mile wide, and about the same depth, having from
' IG to 10 fathoms, on mud, at its entrance, decreasing gradually to 8 and 7 fathoms, on
sand, near the middle. It is open to the north, but is capable of affording more shelter
than any other on this part of the coast : the land about it is level for a considerable space.
Two miles farther north-eastward is Esco: >'as Bay, five sixths of a mile wide, and about
half that in depth, with from 10 to 5 or 4 fathoms wai^^r in it. The east point of this
bay, on which there is a battery to defend it, is 1^' mile S. W. from the west part of Point
Chupara. Here is anchorage at about one third of a mile from the east point, in 9 fa-
thoms water, sand and mud, with the fort, (Abercroiubie,) bearing E. N. E., and the
large house on the south side of the bay S. by W. Escouvas is a better anchorage
than Maraccas Bay; the latter, although much larger, being more subject to calms and
sudden shiftings of the wind.
POINT CHUPARA. — Point Chupara is scarped and cliffy, and extends about a mile
nearly east and west. At the distance of 700 feet to the westward of its west extremity,
is a rock, on which the sea generally breaks ; and the reef extends about half a mile
eastward from its east extremity. From this point the coast inclines to the east south-
eastward, being a sandy beach ; and at the distance of three quarters of a mile, is the
entrance of the Little River Chupara, fit only for boats. Here the coast again trends
eastward, is partly composed of clifl's. and at the distance of Sj! miles is the mouth of
the little River Macapou, similar to that of Chupara. Nearly 3 miles further, in the
same direction, in the east part of a small sandy cove, is the little River Paria, of the
same description as the two former: a small islet lies off the fast side of the cove, close
to the shore, called Paria Islet: 2^ railes to the westward of this islet, and about ooe
410
ULUiNT S AMERICAN COAST IMI.OT.
third oT :i iniloolT frum thr rocky |i(»intH nii tlip piKt n'mIc ot' thu River >f:icnpou, tlirrr
in :i ri't'ldr rocks: there iiro iiUo several other rocks lyiii^i iit ii short tlisliiiice Iroiii itlitiri',
between ('hu|i;irn anil I'aria, hut none so Car oH' as the reel just spoken ol. Ahoiii twn
miles eastwanl of I'aria Islet is Tritii ItciiiiJ Kis : the slwire lietwi-e;) heirii; chielly rm kv
cinrs, with iwci islets lyiiii; near il. Nearly I, oiile |';irtlier, in the same (iireiiioti, imJi
at the east riiij iil' a sanilv beach, is the iMonth o| the little Uiver .Maiiilainiis, haviiii; |„..
tween a itrojeeiini; rocky point: this, like tiie tornier, will adinit nothni^ but Imj.hs
llenc^; the cnast tri>iiils to east north-eastward :! miles to I'liint iMatelot, v\hich lie^ 1|
miles N. H7" K. Irom I'oint Clmpara.
Kroin Matejot I'oini to Kio (irande I'oint. the bearitifj and distance are N. ho ' K. 7'
miles: at abont a mile to the ea-itward of the lormi-r is Le I'eiil Matflot. and belwoi.
tiiese, close to the eastward »( a rocky spot, is tiie entrance ol' Shark's Kiver, snnilario
those already described. The coast thence, to within half a mile of Uio (iraiiile, u
chielly rocky and liii;h, with a lew sandy bays. RioOraiidc, contrary to its appellaiKii,,
is a small river, like those beliire mentioned; it lies about S. \V. by .S. three cpiarieiv,
a mile iVom the point of thai name, the shore between bein^ scarped : from the entr:ii<,
«»f the river a sandy beach extends westward aiiout half a mile, having oil' its west i.\.
ireinity two islets or rocks, the oiitermost of which lies nearly one third of a mile liuii,
bliore. A vessel may anchor in '» fathoms water at one third or two fifths of a mile \V,
by N. from Kio (iraiide I'oint, (olf which is an islet or rock,) with the east end ol iji,
sandy ln-ach liearini^ about ,'*!. by 11. { K. The coast from hence trends nearly K. ,■
miles to I'oint Sans Soiici, — the shore bem^ chielly scarped.
l"'rom I'oint Sans .SoiK'i to Keel's i'oiiii, (calh'd by the .Spaniards Toco i'oint,) ilie
bearinu and distanceart; S. H7" K. 4j ;iiiles. iiere tlie coast bends in a little to the sdiiili.
ward, and is of the same description as the anterior. About I), by .S. v'-' miles froiii S;r ,
Souci I'oint is Toco I'oini, with smue islets or rocks lyinu; close to it; and betwrcni;
and Keels I'oiiit, to the west s'lUtli-westward of the latter, is ^Foco JJay, where i >lii
may aiuiior at about lhre(> ipiarters (da mile from the land, in 1 'J fathoms water, tiiadiK
Uiound. with Keel's I'oint beariiin V!.. by S., Harris' house" .S. ,S. K. | K.; or lailli'
southward, in I'i or I ! latlioiiis, with Keels I'oint K. by .N. and Harris' house as beldie
but this is not a good jilace to lie at, as a '^n-at swell sets in.
Kroin lieefs Point the coast trends .S. ()!' K., nearly 1^ mile to Point (Jalere. wliidi,
as before iiotiftd, is the N. K. point of the island. The land between is of a niodciiiif
lieight. A reef extends about one third of a mile from shore alons; all this sjiace, iimi'
should not be api)roached nearer than the depth of I'J fathcMns. There is also a rock i-
the eastward of Point Galero, about three fourths of a mile, often visible, but on wlinh
the sea always breaks; and there is loasou to suspect that some sunken ones lie still
further out, and also within it.
The whole of I he mutli coast is bold, with the exception of the places already men-
tioned ; and the soundings extend several miles olf, anil are almost regular. KoiinnilK
N. by W. from Point (Jalere there are 'J'J fathoms; half a mile fartlicr olf. 40 I'atiioiih,
sand and mud. '"hree and a half miles north from I'oint .Sans .Souci there are 'j;i lii-
thoins ; at the same distance N. by W. froin KioOrande, 2(1 fathoms; and at asiiiiilar
tlistance N. N. W. from Point Matelot, 17 fathoms. N. by E. .OiV miles from Paiiatliire
are i;] fathoms ; N. by W. '.'i miles from the Kiver Macapou, 21 ; and N. three I'oiirilis
of a mile from Chujiaia Point, H fathoms. There are 78 fathoms, 5 leagues N. hv \V.
(Voin Escouvas ; and A3 fathoms 5^ miles north from Maraccas JJay, North, G\ m\f>
froi',1 Point Coro/al, there are ()0 fathoms ; and at 7 leagues N. by E.from Boco Mdim.
'I'.i fathoms. Tiiese depths decrease grailually towards the shore, very close to wliiib
;irc 8, 7, and G fathoms.
The bottom being every where good, sand and mud, a vessel having occasioti to an-
chor, inay choose her ancliorage on any part of this coast, with the precaution not to su
into any of the bays to leeward of IMaraccas; as the high uu)untains tliere prevent the
*vind from blowing home, and the swell in such a ease renders it difticult to inaii;\!;e a
ship.
At }Cio (jlrande, on the full and cliange days of the moon, it is high water at 41). liOni.;
and between this and Point Cliupmra, the last two hours of the ebb, and sometimes the
whole of it, sets to the eastward along the shore.
EAST COAST OF TUFNl DAD— The range of high mountains extending along
the north coast of this island, from west to east, continues on the east coast as far as
Point Salibia. The highest part of the range, as before said, is near the meridian ol
Escouvas ; on the east, the most elevated part is near Point Salibia.
* Harris' house is situate on a little hill at the S. E. side of the bay, and easily distinguished, be-
ing the largest in that neighborhood.
I
The cene
i»S. 7j' W
rocky, with
I'liitit 1,1 \''i
I'liiiit la y»
loriiis a bay,
inaiia. Kroi
or 4 phuilati
sandy bay, w
ex[)ost'(l to t
alidu; wliDs,'
foiirllis of a n
the sliiire.
sisis 01 some
to within till
piiint Itself, w
\V. at the di
large or dee)
4 latlinins.
torrent discli
mile S. 4M°
and at tlie di
«vhich is Salil
ter within a s
ter or a third
posed. Thi'
nearly as far,
mile from the
westward of i
near if, and t
ol ,1 mile, will
of nioiintaiiis,
of Point (lale
a vast extent i
lated hills aris
W^e have ji
It continues o
K. from Palu
der landing o
the middle of
bad bar.
At Manr.aii
about Ijf mile
sheltered by a
sulhcieiit for a
tlie best on al
Point, enstwa
same point an
S. 71° W. fri
and is not to I
great safety be
wind will scan
from the soutl
from the three
suddenly from
water, with tl
'^V. about the
far the best an
to make sail ii
ward. Nearly
branche Mouii
about 1 000 fee
part of the co;i
COCOS B;
zanilla Bay, is
abruptly to thi
BLUM S AMERICAN COAST ril.OT.
447
i^liuicf Irdin Hlmrr,
I'll Ol. Alxillt iMi,
)ririi{ iliii'lly riukv
inn ilii'cction, iiiiil
(liMiiiis, hiiviiii; Iji'.
iilliiii;! lint liiMts,
lot, wliii-li \iv» |4
? are N. H(}° V..V.
tt'lot. siikI hftwiTi
H River, siiiiil.n i,
of Kill (iriiiiili', I,
I to its nppL'lliiiioii,
i. thri'P t|ir<irii'i»qi
iVdm llif t'nlr:iii,
IIJJ till' its Writ i\
linl III' :i lllilr llnl!:
ililis ot a null' \V.
lie east ciiil ol ihi
leiiils neiirly V.. j;
'I'dcii I'dirit.) :|,.
I little to tlio sDiilli-
I'j iiiiles iVoiii S;ii](
it ; Mill! iii'tw rni i;
jiiiv, wlieic a s\\\\
iiMiH water, iiiiuliK
^. I K.; or liirllii-;
i' liousc as bel'oie
lint (talero, which,
II is 1)1' w niodrriiie
all this spaet;, ;imi
re is also a rock t"
ilile, liiit oil w!iii|]
liken ones lir >iil
ares already imn-
iilar. Fourmilfs
r olV, 40 ratlioiiir
ci there art- -I'A i,i-
;>ii(l at a siiiiil.i:
s Croin I'iiriatliire
tl N. three I'oiirtlK
eagues N. hy \V.
North, 6'; miles
111 lioco Miilin,
ry close to wliiclj
<; occasion to ;i!i-
;eantion not In i:u
tliere prevpiil llie
(icult to maiKiKta
.vaterat 4li. .'lOni.;
nd sometimes the
extending along
ist coast as far as
r the meridian ol
y distinguiehed, be- %
Th** cenrral hoarintj of the oast Hide oftlie island from Point (lalerr to I'oint (ialrot.-i
ii ."^. 7.V NV- nlioiit 11,', miles. Cape (iaiere, as lielore said, is emiiparaiively low and
rii(ky,*with a heavy sea (lonstanily lireakiiij; on it; and S. 7^ W. Iniiii it 1{ mile, it
i'diiit la Kiirest, having lietwcen a rocky li.iy, in wlin li there is no landiii;,'. I'rom
I'oint la Korest S. 40 ' W. 4j miJi'H, lies I'oint (iiiayamaii. Hetween theiif ihc coawt
loniis a hav, on the shore of which, and nearly iiiidway, is the little setileineni of L'u-
iiiaiia. Kroiii I'oint (Jalere to (iiiiiaiia the inast is very rocky. Cniiiana emisisis of ■'{
or I plaiilatioiis, situated on land loler.ildy even, and risin;^ with a ;;i'iitle accent liom a
sandy bay, which always atfurds L'ood laiidinu, althoiit>li i|uite iiiisheliered, iiml a^ niueti
exposed to the eaut, and to the consei|(tent violence of the ocean, a.s the rest of the coast,
aldim wliost« whole extent, except at this spot, a tremendous surf hri'aks. At three
(iinrtlis of a mile olf there are '» fathoms water, w hence the depth decreases ^radiiallv to
rlie slmre. I^'nim Ciimaiia In I'oint (iiiayamaii, a distance ol 'J.|, miles, the shore i lui-
Msis 01 some points of rocks and sandy beaches, l-'roni the latter poiiil it becomes cliliy
to within three limrths of a mile of Halandra I'oint, and then a sandy beach almost to tim
point Itself, which terminates in a scarped rock, and bears from (iiiayamaii I'oint S. 40"
W. at the distance of I miles. Malandra llay is to the westward ol the point; it is not
lari;e or deej) enoiiirh to shelter any vessel larger than a iradinji schddiier, in (Vdiii 'J.', to
4 lallioms. The north part of this bay is a sandy beach, and at its west end a moiintaiii
torrent discharges; the shore thence is clilly as far as .Salibia I'oint, which is nearly a
mile S. 4H° VV. from that of Halanilra. 'J'he coast now bends more to the westward ;
and at the distance of nearly "J miles VV. S. W. 4 W. is I'atiira I'oint, to the N. K. of
which is Salibia Hay, where a small vessel drawing H leet water may find tolerable shel-
ter within a small rocky islet on the north side. 'I'liere is also aiichoraiie about a ()iiar-
tcr or a third of a mile to the southward of the islet, in 5 or U fathoms water, but more ex-
lioseil. This islet lies four (ifths of a mile from .Salibia I'oiiit; the rocky shore extends
nearly as far, and thence to I'atnra I'oint is a sandy beach. About VV. by N. half a
mile from the islet, is the entrance of Salibia Kiver. (it only tor bciats, and a little to the
westward of it is a tolerably ^ooil landinj; place. I'atnra I'oint has a small islet or rock
near it, and the coast is cliffy, tlionnh somewhat lower than before, lor aiiout two tilths
d( a mile, whence it turns abruptly to the sotitliward. Salibia is at the foot oftlie ran^e
of nidimtains, which extends aUinu the iidithcrn coast; and here ends the rocky ipiarter
ol Point (ial«;re. l<'rdm hence ti) the simthward is a loii^ sandy shore, the interior being
a vast extent of land, a|)|)arently level and of a nidderaie lieiL'ht, with a few distant insu-
lated hills arising out of the plain, the whole covered with a continued forest.
VV^; have jnst said that the coast turns abruptly to the soiithwi.rd, and is a sandy shore,
it continues oftlie same dcscriplioii so tar as Nian/.anilla I'oint, which is '([ miles ,S. H°
K. from I'alura I'oint, with a surl breakinu alum; its whole extent, sii heavily as to ren-
der landinji on any part of it totally impracticable. 'J'his is called I'atuia Hay; near
the middle of it the Kiver Oropuche discharges itself tliroiiyh the surf, and over a very
bad bar.
At Man7,anilla Point the coast turns suddenly to S. W. by \V. and W. S. \V. for
about Ij; mile, chiefly rocky, but forming a sukiII sandy bay or liarbor .d the same name,
sheltered by sdinn rocky islets lyinu; near its cast |)oint. This bay has a depth of water
sufficient for any vessel not drawing more than 9 feet ; and although very small, it is
the best on all the east coast of the island. A reef of rocks stretches from iMan/.aiiilla
I'oint, eastward, rather more than half :i mile; and nearly 'J miles S. 4<)^ K. from the
same point are three rocks, above water, over w hich the sea always breaks. Half a mile
S. 71 " W. from these rocks is another, so small, that it scarcely makes the sea break,
and is not to be seen uiuil you are close to it. \ essels from the north may run with
s:reat safety between the reef w hich stretches off from the point and these rocks ; but the
wind will scarcely permit a s(|uare riitijc'd vessel to lie her course thrdii!;h this channel
iVdin the southward. There is also some foul izroiind about two fifths of a mile E. N. E.
from the three rocks, on and near which the sea breaks in very bad weather. It shoals
suddenly from 9 to 4J fathoms. A ship may anchor off Manzanilia Hay, in b fathoms
water, with the leewardmost of the rocky islets at the entrance oftlie bay bearinj; N.
W. about the distance of .S cables' length, and iMaii/.anilla Puiiit N. iN. K." 'J'his is by
far the best anchorage on the coast, as a ship from hence will always have plenty of rooiu
to make sail in case of necessity. Here the flood and elib streams both set northeast-
ward. Nearly W. S. W., about 3i miles from Manzanilla Toint, is the east cud of Le-
branche Mountains, which thence c'xteiid west, south-westward. This, by estimation, is
about 1000 feet above the level of the sea, and forms a conspicuous mark to know this
part of the coast by.
COCOS BAY. — Close to the w-cstv^'ard of the clifly shore, on the west side of Man-
zanilla Bay, is the mouth of the little river Lebrauche ; and hence the coast again turns
abruptly to the southward as far as the river Ortoire, a distaijce of lOi miles ; the shore
448
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
:if
being all a sandy beach, nearly straight, with the surf breaking hearily on it. Tins
is called Cocos Bay, from its shore being bordered by a narrow grove of cocoanut trees
7 or 8 miles long. Near the middle of the bay the river Milan discharges its waters.
About half a mile eastward of the mouth of the Ortoire River, is a landing place behiml
a rocky point, on the north side of a scarped promontory, which advances H mile iiito
the sea, and presents a front of high clift'to the eastward, of about a mile in length N. N.
E. and S. S. W. Thi.« is called Mayero Point, (but i)y the Spaniards Cape CJuatarn.)
Several rocks and reef^^ lie off its N. E. part to a considerable distance; and it shoulii
not be approached from the east nearer than a mile, as there are only 3 fathoms at tlic
distance of four fifths of a mile from it, in that direction ; but a vessel may anchor, ;i[
nearly a mile to the norrhward of this piom-^ntory, in 5 fathoms, good ground, having the
N. E. part of the point bearing S. E. { S., and the westernmost rocky blulf, which is
near the mouth of the Ortoire, S. W. J S. Mayero Point is remarkable at the distance of
6 or 6 leagues, from advancing into the sea, and also from the almost equal elevation of the
whole tongue of laud that forms it. It lies nearly 11 miles S. 13° W. from ManzaniJIa
Point.
MAYERO BAY. — From the south part of Mayero Point, the land continues
high and scarped for about two thirds of a mile to the W. N. W., whence a low sandy
beach begins, turning to S. by W. and S., and continues of the same description, wiii;
low land in the interior, as faras Point Galeota, which is 12^ miles S. 8° \V. from Mayero
Point. The space between these points is called Mayero Bay; and at its northern pan
the water is sufficiently smooth to afford good landing for two or three miles, although it
is as much exposed to the east as the middle and southern parts, where a heavy sun
breaks ; and off this part, also, a vessel may anchor, as there are about 6 fathoms at Ij
mile off, and it shoals gradually to the shore. To the southward of Mayero point are
some plantations, and at the distance of 3 miles a church.
POINT GALEOTA, as we have before said, is the S. E. point of the island. Se-
veral rocks lie off it, but they are all above water; and at the distance ot" three quarters
of a mile to the E. and S. E. of it, is a depth of 10 fathoms. This promontory is of mo
derate elevation, and may be discovered from the north-eastwaiJ at the distance of 6n:
7 leagues. The soundings extend to a considerable distance off to the eastward, aoi;
shoal gradually to the land : these will be best understood by inspecting the chart.
SUNKEN ROCK. — Before we quit this part, we ouglit not to omit mentioning ,i
dangerous rock that lies 6 or 7 leagues from the land, although we are not acquainted
with its precise situation. The surveyor,* when searching for it in the direction thi;
was pointed out to him, found a bank of 16 fathoms, with deep water all around it, on
which it is supposed to exist. This bank lies 7 leagues S. 37-^° E. from Point Galeie,
and N. 82° E. from the motmtain of Lebrauche, distant (>} leagues from Manzanilli
Point. There is no doubt of its existence, a vessel having been wrecked upon it : amlii
has been seen by several persons at very low spring tides ; it is a very small rock, auJ
steep close to.
SOUTH COAST OP TRINIDAD.— From Point Galeota to the Point de la (iraiidp
Calle, it is 4 miles S. 75° W. The coast between forms (iuaya-Guayara Bay, which is
spacious, with a sandy shore, but so shoal that nothing can be sheltered in it, excepi
very small vessels, there being only ,'] fathoms water a mile from the land. A rockv
shoal lies nearly in the middle of it, and there are several rocks near Galeota Point, hii:
they are all above water. From Point de la (Jrande Calle the coast trends S. by \\'.\
W., all scarped and rocky, to Point Casa Cruz, a distance of 5| miles. All alonfjthis
part there are 5 fathoms water at a mile and a half from the land. From Point Cnsa
Cruz the coast runs nearly west, with several inflections, about 32 miles, to Point Ta-
baro, the shore being chiefly scarped with two or three spots of sandy beach, amJ a
few rocks at the projecting points. From Point Tabaro the coast trends W. bv N.
about two and a half miles to Point Ilerin, a projecting point of sand, with some
rocks lying off it. Nearly five miles west by north from the latter lies Islot Point.
The coast between is sandy, and forms a small bay called Herin Bay, in which there are
3 or 4 fathoms water. The coast from hence trends W. S. W., nearly C iniJes, to Puini
Quemada, the shore being all sandy. About midway lies Point Chaguaramas. Ahoni
3 miles to the westward of Point Quemada is Point Icacos, or Icaque, the fuiuth-weslerii
extremity of the island. We have already said that Point (ialeota may be distiiirlly
made out at the distance of 6 or7-leaguos. From this point tin; land begins to be more
elevated, and continues so along the south coast. No part of this coast can properly be
called mountainous, although it is very hilly ; but tiiese gradually diminish l^roni the n-
cinity of Point Herin towards Point Icacos, which is quite low and flat. The hiHul
* Captaiu E. H. Columbine.
Guaya-Gua;
; from Point
as a guide w
abuut a mile
be obtained
will be fount
const ; but ii
- ur 10 fatlii
of Point Icu
itself, but so
Point (-^ueiii
risk.
POINT 1
a cirnular Ibi
From its 8.
nortli-eastwa
WESTC
ing and dista
rinia, which
distance, and
From Poii
coast betwee
siderable dist
t«o thirds of
feet lies also
of 14 miles fi
Point. Betw
Cape Brea pr
i within it is a
ward, about a
close to the i)
From the i
N. (>9' F. 91
miles. The's
low water, ini
about l'^ mile
fivo thirds of;
~ miles, the w
and to the nor
to tile northw
of hills. Tht
with shallow v
caal Point, is
point, is that r
miles to Port >
tie rivers Cha,
Here we lUa
the Bocas, am
Mono Poin
thence to Tail
At three quart
Careenage of
17 fathoms at t
a ship of the Ii
J forms the east
cessary to kce
Taitron's Bay
Point, is aboil
beach at its ht
these Days is 1
tiie three islan
t will be describ
GASPAR (
of Gaspar Grar
1| mile to Pur
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
449
iTily on it. TI113
; ot'cocoanutirecs
charges its waters.
idins; place behinil
■ances H mile into
lile in length N. \.
(Is Cape Guatarn,)
nee; and it should
ly 3 fathoms at ihr:
5el may anchor, at
ground, having the
icky blutf, which is
lie at the distance ni
|ual elevation ot the
7. from Manzuni'la
he land continufs
hence a low sandv
le description, wiiii
i° W. from Miiyero
at its northern pan
!e miles, although it
where a heavy sun
out 6 fathoms at 1|
of Mayero point an
of tVie island. Se-
:e ot' three quarters
iromontory is ol'ino-
the distance of bo-
:> the eastward, anc
ting the chart.
omit mentioning a
; are not acquaiiik'i
n the direction tha:
er all around it, or.
from Point Galere,
■„s from Manzanill;i
;ked upon it ; amlii
iry small ruck, and
Point de la UrmV
ayara Bay, wiiichis
altered in it, excei':
the land. A rocky
(laleota Point, hii!
trends S. In W. 1
les. All aloiis thi'
From Point Cnss
miles, to Point Ta-
sandy beach, ami a
;t trends W. by N.
of sand, with some
ter lies Islot Point.
^ in which there are
ily (Smites, to Poini
iguaramas. About
e,'thci.JUHth-\vesteni
a may be distiiKiiy
d i)egins to be more
jast can proi)eriy be
iminish from the vi-
d flat. The hill ol
Guava-Guayara, at the eastern extremity of this range, and about 1.1 mile N. W. by W.
; from Point "de la (nande Calle, is 760 feet high by admeasurement. This may serve
a? a guide whereby to estimate the height ot' the others. There is a watering place
about a mile to the westward of Point (Jasa Cruz, where, with a little trouble, water may
be obtained from a mountain stream that falls into a well on the beach. Five fathoms
will be found at a mile and a half tVom the shore, in which depth you may run along the
coist : but it is more advisable to keep at two miles from the lan(i. You will then be in
- or 10 fathoms, and clear of all risk. At the distance of 3 or 4 leagues to the eastward
of Point Icacos, a reef of rocks lies upwards of a mile from the land. It does not.sliow
itself, but some red clitls on the shore will nearly point out its situation. After passing
Point t-^ueniada, you may approach the shore to a quartet of a mile without the least
risk.
POINT ICAC'OS, OR ICAQT''^E, is a sandy promontory advancing into the sea in
a circular form, but so steep that at half a cable's length there are 8 or 'J fathoms water.
From its S. W. part it first runs northward about 1J| mile to point Corral, and thence
north-eastward 1,t m\h to Point Gallos, which has 2 or 3 islets lying oil' its west side.
WEST COAST OF TRINIDAD.— From Point Icacosto Port d'Espagne the bear-
ing and distance are N. 3b^ E. 43 miles. All this part is low, excepting Mount Napa-
rinia, which is round, and bU'J feet high. Jn clear v.eather it may be seen at 8 leagues
distance, and is a good mark within the (julf of Paria.
From Point Gallos, before mentioned, to Point Cedro, it is hh miles N. 61" E., the
coast between forming a bay of the same name, the N. E. part of which is flat at a con-
siderable distance oil'. From the point a spit projects westward, and at its extremity,
two thirds of a mile from the point, is a rock called the IJarrel of Heef. A shoal of 9
feel lies also about 3 miles N. E. ,V F. from the same point. N. ()2'^ E., at the distance
of 14 miles from Point Cedro, is the N. W. extremity of Cape or Point I3rea, or Pitch
Point. Between these the shore forms two shallow bays, separated by Guape Point.
Cape Brea presents a front of two or three miles in extent, projecting to the N. W., and
■i with'in it is a wonderful lake of pitch or bituminous matter. In the bay to the south-
ward, about a mile from Point Brea, there are two small rivers of excellent fresh water
close to the beach.
From the north part of Point Brea to Mount Naparima. the bearing and dislnnee are
N. (>9^ E. 9} miles, and from the latter to Point Cascaal, the coast trends N. G° W. 11
miles. The siiore b'Hween Ca|)e Bre:i and Point Cascaal forms a deep bay, with shal-
low water, into which several rivers discud)ogue; of these the first is the Sjbaira, at
about 1'^ mile to the S. W. of Mount Naparima. Between this river and the Mount, at
two t'lirds of a mile from shore, lies a farallon, or rock, and to the W. N. W. of it, full
2 mdes, the water is shallow. At the foot of the mount, on its west side, is Petit Bourg,
auil to the northward of it are the little rivers Taronga and Guaracaro. About 'J.' mile.s
to the northward of Petit Bourg is Stony Point, at the western end of the middle range
of hills. The coast thence trends about N. ;', W. 8| miles to Cascaal Point, bordered
with shallow water to the distance of 4 miles oil'. About S. E. by S. l\ mile from Cas-
caal Point, is the mouth of the little; river Coiira, and ] !:;' mile N. E. i E. from the same
point, is that of Carapichima, of a similar description. From hence it is N. 13.1° w. 9
miles to Port d'Espagne ; the land between is low and swampy, through which the lit-
tle rivers Chagouane, Aripo, and Arouca, discharge their waters.
Here we discontinue the description of this coast from the south, resume it again at
• the Bocas, and conclude -it Port d'Espagne.
Mono Point, as we have before said, is the N. AV. extremity of the island. From
thence to Taitron's Point, or Punta del Diablo, it is little more than IJ mile S. 8° E.
At three quarters of a mile from the former, lies the north point of an islet, called the
Careenage of "\:n\o, which runs in north-eastward tnore than half a mile, and has from
17 fathoms at tne entrance, to 4 and 3 at the extremity. At the head of this inlet, or bay,
a ship of the line might lie secure to the shore, land-lovked. OlTthe sandy shore which
^i forms the east side of it, there i,5 a bank which shoals suddenly : it will therefore be ne-
I cessary to keep on the opposite shore, if you should have occasion to work up so far.
I Taitron's Bay, called also Ensonada del "infante, lies to the northward of Taitron's
I Point, is about one third of a mile wide, and of nearly the stmie depth, having a sandy
I beach at its head, and a depth of 1,5 fathoins at the entrance. The high land between
the.se oays is 1400 feet above the surface of tlie sea. Westward from these points lie
the three islands, Mono, Huevo, and Chaca-chacare, which form the Bocas, and which
will be described hereafter.
1 GASPAR GRANDE.— S. 4° W. 1 mile from Taitron's Point, lies the west point
JofGasparGrande, natued Espolon (Coek's-spnr.) This island extends eastward nearly
1| mile to Punta de la Reyaa, the east jioint, and is about half a mile broad. Its eleva-
57
450
BLUi\T sJ AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
tion is considerable, the highest part being 337 feet ; and its coasts fornisojnc coves, or
little bays, in whicli small vessels may anelior.
From Taitron's Point the coast of Trinidad runs S. 73° E. four fifths of a mile to
Punta de San Jose, whence it bends in to tiie N. K. and E. 1| mile, and thence to [\]p
S. S. VV. about two thirds of a uiile to Punta San Carlos, being the west part of Cli;,.
guaramus Peninsula. This point lies almost 'J miles S. ho° E. from Taitron's Poim
one and one tenth mile S. 60= E. from Punta de San .lose, and 7-10 yards to the ea>
ward ofGaspar Grande. Gasparillo Island lies to the southward of Punta de San Jom.
and has an islet on its north side. This island forms two passages : that on the nnrij
is 250 yards wide, with o to 15 fathoms water; and that on the south, between it ai
Caspar Grande, is 740 yards wide, with from 9 to 14 fathoms water.
CHAGIJARAMUS HAY is comprised i)etwen (Jaspar (Jrande, on the 8. AV. ij
west side of the peninsula on the east, and the land on the north. It is spacious, mi;
affords good anchorage. 'J'he shores are bold, except off the large plantation, wliich;
situated in the jjrincipal valley on the north side, wheiu;e a shoal of 1 to 3 fathoms cs
tends 600 yards oil'. Its outer edge trends to W. N. W., and is very steep. Vessf;,
may anchor in this bay any where ; but the most convenient sjjot for watering, is in;
fathoms, with thi; east end of Gaspar (irande bearing S. by E. and Taitron's Point i.v.
line with Punta de San .lose. There is a wreck of one of the S))anish ships of the In,
that were burnt here at the taking of tl)e ishind. It lies in 17 fathoms water, havinnii.
western Diego Island open 1"' 10' of Punta San Carlos, and the north extreme of (Ik
par Grande W. by S. Avoiding tliis wreck, a shi|) or two may water very well hi it,
At full and cliaiige of the moon, it is high water by the shore at 3 o'clock, and it riw
about 5 feet ; but at the anclioraue the flood stream runs until half past 3 o'clock. Tip
flood runs to the eastward, and continues only 5] hours ; the ebb runs to the westw;ir
ESCONDTDO IIAPvBtHl.— 'J\» the nortliward of Punta San Carlos, or Escoiulii!
is a little harbor named Escondi<Io. From this point S. S. E. i E. four ter.tlisdi;
mile, is Prince's Point; and thence to the east end of Chaguaramus Peninsula ii,
about E. N. E. l^V niile. From this latter point to another point at the west side
Lyuch's Bay, it xa N. 55^ E. ly^ mile. To the N. W. of the east point of tbe ]wni[-
aula, nearly half a mile, is an inlet, or ba^, called the Careenage, an excellent liaii.
for merchant ships, but too shoal for men-of-war. there being only from 10 to i'-Ut
water. North-eastward from this bay is another with 2.7 to 4 fathoms in it.
DIEGO'S ISLANDS.— To the S. and S. E. of Prince's Point, about one third of;
mile, lie Diego's Islaiuls, two in ntiniljer, of about a c|uarter of a mile in extent irif:)
and the sanie distance asunder, N. E. by E. ^ E. and S. W. by W. ^ VV. Thfn' h
good passage between them of i) to 12 fathoms water, and also between them andPrii]ce>
Point, of 20 to 25 fathoms.
COLORAS. — The (Joloras are a cluster of small islands, five in number, opciipvn;;
a space of four tenths of a mile. They lie l.'j mile E. i S. from the easternmost ot Lr
go's Isles, and 1 1 mile S. E. from the east ])oint of the peninsula. There appears to '■
a passage between the two southernmost and the others.
PORT D'ESPAGNE.— From the point on the west side of Lynch's Bay, tiiecoK
with some inflections, trends E. S. E. a distance of 5,^ miles to Port d'Espagne. ar.
there turns about S. S. K. Ik mile to the river Caroni, which in the rainy season pour'
out a furious stream. The water in the road of Port d'Espagne is very shallow, tliei'
being only 3;} fathoms at a mile and a half off. It is extremely foul and muddv tlifi
and nearer to the siiore it is j)roporlional)jy m(»re so. At about li mile off tioiii it
shore, with the round white tower on a hill near the town, bearing N. E. by E., tlr'
are 3^ fathoms, very soft mud, but shijjs may anchor any where. The ship will tuiiii!:
soft mud up long before she gets into a good ancho-ing place, which should be inaboir.
3 feet more water than she draws. The water is always perfectly smooth.
The tide flows here on full and change days of the moon, at half past 5 o'clock; ll'
flood comes from the west, and the ebb from the S. E.; and the water is slack about 1-
hour, both at high and low water. The course of the tides, both ebb and flood, ^m
each checked by an opposing shore in this corner where the town is situated, they iKiiiu
ally mu.st deposit there nuich of the mud which they carry along with them: hence tli;
quantity of mud in 'he anchorage.
The coast of the .nain land is low and swampy, opened by a great number of mv
and channels falling iiTto the (iulf; of these the deepest and most frequented, isll;'
Guarapiche, by which a trade is carried on with the interior of Cumana; it isnavigaW
for schooners and large balaxues.
Description of Ihc Islnnch which form the Boca.i.
The northern passages into the (hilf of Paria, between the N. W. end of Trinidaii.
three islands lying oft" it, and the Coast of Paria, were by Columbus called Bocasilt
Brazos, fro
liuwcvei, is
MONO
Island, Hiu
' fro in N- K.
the land on
est of thes(
; ?'ast side of
Dehert's, b
others,
from Mono
but in the I
.. tailed ]!(jco
■' in it. A cli
Ishind; the
Hl'KVO
ing a bay on
laiii one au(
extends 1 j
: W. from til
V surface of t
••uiiiiiionly f
jiliont S. \V
trance, is ab
CllACA-
I east point of
point of Hu
[north point,
jsaiiic distanc
the coast rni
; K. about thri
westward, wi
the I'urther e
])aits. is a lo\
side uf tile is
' there is a sin
AV. point of
hi<;h land of
W. point of <
hdl on that |
rock, is 70 5(,
island has an
moon nt 'M) n
The Chan
Passage : it 1
entrance, tw(
great extent,
The great
faiid Boca (jr;
triecessity, ver
^ 311 or 4(5 fath-
', the bottom, e
■ constant opei
' rapidity at tii
* Tlrere is ai
shoalcat part o
i fcrrnce. This
of the ship Sai
fo' sieveral hon
ig, althongh n
[fare, S. \V. pu
[niana, or Parii
BLUNT S A3IEIITCAN COAST PILOT.
451
s form some covrs. o.
mr lil'tlis of a mile to
ile, and thencp to tli»
he west part of ('h;,.
from Taitron's Pnim,
740 vartls to the easi
rif Punta de San .lovi.
\es : that on the nonj
south, between it ami
:r.
ide, on the S. AV. tii»
1. It is spacious, aw
ye plantation, which i
of 1 to 3 fathoms f\.
! very steep. Ve>sr;,
t for watcrinsj, is in;.
id Taitron's Point iv
anish ships of the lis.
loms water, having :i,.
north extreme of(;,v
ater very well htic
It .'! o'clock, and it n<«
f past ;5 o'clock. Tii-
) rnns to the westwar
(Jarlos, or EscoikIk!
;. i K. four tei.tlisd!.
ramus Peninsula ii
oint at the west side
3ast point of the peni!
;e. an excellent liari-
only from 10 to 23 fe
loms in it.
nt, about one third n:
a mile in extent i-ric;
W. ^ VV. Then- 1>
veen them andl'iiiicf
in number, occu])viri;
le easternmost ol'Di'-
There appears to-
ynch's Hay, tlieco.i^'
Port d'EsiJit^np. ar,
the rainy season pour'
is very shallow, tliK'
bul and muddy tlifi'
li mile olf from li;^
nil N. K. by E., tlier'
The ship will tuniil!'
ich should be in aboi:;
smooth,
tlf past 5 o'clock: ti'
water is slack about i;
I ei)h and flood, lifin;
is situated, theyiialiu
with them : hence tl'
reat number of rivPi'
iiost iVequented, is tli'
umana ; it is navigable
7.9. V
. W. end of Trinidad.'
mbus called BocasJi
Brazos, from the velocity of the current which lie found settinjn throufrh them. This,
, however, is very various in its strenjfth, tiioimh constant in its direction to tlie northward.
I MONO ISLAND. — The tliree islands which form these passages, are Mono, or Ape's
;i Island, Huevo, or Egg island, and Chaea-chacare. The lirst is about iil miles in length
lioni N. E. to S. \V., and I.', mile in breadth: it consists of two lofty hills, from which
the land on the soutli side shelves down to the sea, in riilges siiii^ularly sharp : the high-
est of these hills, at the north part, is lOL" feet above the surtace of the sea. On the
east side of the island are two bays; the northernmost named Morris' Bay, the other
Dohert's, besides some coves : to the westward of these, on the south side, are some
others. The N. E. point of this island bears about S. W. by W. distant half a mile
v; t'roni .Mono Point, and the S. E. point \V. N. W. 1 W. V.VM) yards from Taitron's Point;
but in the narrowest part, the channel is not quite one third of a mile wide. This is
i called Boco Mono: it lies lu-ariy north and south, and has from "jy to 47 fathoms water
I in it. A cluster of rocks lies about .jOO yards E. N. E. from the N. E. point of Mono
'? Island; these have H fatlioms close to them.
HUKV'O, OR K(i(i ISLAND, is the next: this is of a seiui-circular shape, form-
iti'i a h'tiy on its 8. W. side. Jts N. E. ))oiiit, near to winch lies the Umbrella Kock, isdis-
taiji one and one tenth mile W. by S. from the N. W. part of Mono IslaiKJ, and thence
extends IJ mile ;iliout N. \V. by W. ^ \V. Its south point lies one mile W. N. W. f
W. from the S. W. |)oint of Mono, lluevo, near its N. E. point, is b55 feet above the
; surface of the sea. 'J'hc cltaniiel between it and Mono is called Poco lluevo, or more
cuniinonly the Unibiella Passage, t'rom the rock of that uaiiu» : the course through ia
about .S. \V. by S. and N. E. by N.; and its narrowest part, which is near the S. W. en-
trance, is about three qtiarters of a mile wide, with a deptli of more than 100 fathoms.
CHACA-t'HAOAKE is the westernmost of the three islands : Point St. Jago, the
feast point of this island, lies three ijitarters of a mile nearly W. S. \V. tVoui tlie south
j ponit of Huevo: and thence extends about N. \V. ] N. one and lour filths mile to the
Inorlli point, near whic.h is an islet; and thence turns about S. by W. -'r W. nearly the
I same distance to its .S. \V. point. From the latter to Point Antoine, ihe S. E. point,
I the coast runs about E. I N. 1.', mile ; and from this point to tliat of St. .Jago, N. E. by
: E. about three ((itarters of a mile. Between the hitter points a deep bay is formed north-
westward, with sale iuichoragt.', hut dilficult to get in or out of', except by warping. At
the further end of this bay of (."haca-chacare, which nearly divides tlie island into two
jiarts, is a low .--.aiidy neck or isthmus. To tlie southward of this beach, and on the west
i side of tiie island, are some scattered rocks, at abtnit a cable's length from shore; and
' there is a small rock, with -Jr, fathoms on it, lyinir one thir<l of a mile west from the S.
\V. jioiiu of tlie island, and S. ','5,', W. from its N. W. extremity.* The whole of the
liiiili land of the ])eninsula of (!haguaramus open to the soutliuard of the rock at the S.
W. point of CTiaca-chacare, clears it on the south side: the angular altitude of the high
hill on that |)oiiit, from the top to the sea, at its foot, taken in a boat anchored on the
rock, is 7° fM'. This hill is 406 feet above tlie surface of the sea : the nortli part of the
island has an elevation of 810 feet, lli-re it is high water on full and change days of the
moon at .''0 miiiiit<'s after "J o'clotdv.
The Channel formed by Cha<!a-ehacare and lluevo, is ciilled Boca N'avios, or Ship
Passage: it lies S. E. by S. and N. W. by N. and is, at the narrowest point, the S.W.
jeiitrance, two thirds of a mile wide. To the westward of this island is Boca Grande, of
^great extent, and almost free from danger.
Dcscnpiion of the Boras.
The great depth of water in the three lar.iest of the !)Ocns, namely, Nuveo, Navios,
:'aiid Boca Orande, prevents anchoring in any part of iliem, except in case of absolute
{necessity, very close to the shore. A ship may anchor any where in Boca Mono, but ia
j;iil or 40 fathoms, in mid-channel. The beds of these channels are much deeper thau
:||the bottom, either within or without them; as if they had been thus worn away by the
^constant operation of the Northern Current which runs throUi:li tliein. In aut'timn its
^rapidity at times is so great, that ships are fre(|ueutly driven out again, after having eii-
* Tliereis another rncli lyiuir off the S.W. point nf Chaca-chiicnrc, with nnlj- 9 feet water on the
ishoalcst pan of it, at low water, with very deep \vat( r all around ; it is iibout 40 yards in circuni.
jferrnce. This rook was discovered on the niorniufrof the 2Gthof .Fune, 1809, by Captain Siighree,
jot the ship Samuel, of London, drawing 17 feet of water, who struck and rtmnincd fast upon it
jfo' Reveral hours. While this ship was aground two others passed, one on each side, without fouelu
ig, although not at 25 fathoms distant. The bearings bv compass f'rom the ship were, Clia .a.cha-
icare, S. W. point, E. N. E., El Plata, or Goose Island, S'. W. by W. i W.; and the S. E. end of Cu.
inmna, or Paria, W. by S.
452
blunt's amerigaiv coast pilot.
tered one of the passages with a good breeze : during the rest of the yea), its rnte mny
commonly be estimated to be about 2 or li knots ; but close to the S. W. point of Clia-
ca-chacare, it runs nuich stronger. Except in autumn, the tide of flood which sets
through them into the Gulf of Paria, has a considerable power toward,? the top of hiyh
water, in checking this current ; and at spring tides, the water is frequently perfecily
slack in Boca Mono for an hour; and very nearly so in Boca Huevo.
Boca Mono. — Tn the Boca Mono, (the eastern mouth,) at ebb tide, the current runs
outward with a velocity of li or 2 miles an hour, and something less at ordinary flood:
so that, with the exception of about an hour near the top of a spring flood, it always runs
outward. For this reason, and because it is subject to calms and eddy winds, occasioned
by the great elevation of the coast, from being very narrow, (not exceeding one third of
a mile in width,) long and winding, and consequently full of eddies, it should not bent-
tempted by a ship except in a case of necessity, although it is the windward one ; but eitlm
of the others should be preferred. It is high water here on full and change dajs of the
nioon at oO minutes after 3 o'clock.
A ship may anchor any where in the south part of this passage, and all along the south
side of Mono. Dehert's Bay affords excellent anchorage, and there is deep water far
into it : a ship anchored off the mouth of it in 16 fathoms, on clay, with the south point
bearing 8. W. by S. and found the ground so tough that it was with great difficulty the
anchor was weighed.
BOCA IIUEV^O, EGG PASSAGE, (or, as it is now more commonly called, the
Parasol, or Umbrella Passage,) is safe to attempt to run in at, if the »vind hangs to the
N. E., as it will then, probably, blow quite through the passage; but at any rate, if tlip
ship cannot stem the current, there is ample room to back and fdl her out again. The
shores are bold, but care must be taken to avoid a rock at the S. W. point of Mono; al-
though it is not above a ship's length from the point, the eddy of the flood tide at the
springs sets directly over it. At ebb tide the current sets through with rather less vpIoli-
ty than in the former; and during the last two hours of flood, it is nearly slack water:
on this account, it being the shortest, being to the windward of the other two and beiii;
entirely clean, it is considered the best for entering the gulf. It is advisable to keep
closer to the island of Huevas than to that of Mono, to avoid being becalmed by thehiEh
land of Mono, and also because the current inclines to the N. E.
BOCA NAVIOS, OR SMIP PASSAGE, may be safely entered, if, when a ship
hauls round the N. W. end of Huevo at a quarter or one third of a mile distance, ihe
can lie up high enough to bring the south end of the island on her starboard bow. so as
to have the current under her lee ; otherwise it will be improper to attempt it, as the cur-
rent does not run fairly out, but rather inclines down on Chara-chacare. AVith a Huh-
ing tide, it runs with a velocity of li mile per hour; but at the ebb, frequently at the riiie
of 3,v or 4 miles. It is high water on full and change days of the moon at 39 miniiies
after 3 o'clock. Although the entrance by this channel is practicable only under the
above circumstance with a flood tide; yet, on the other hand, it is far superior to tiie
Boca Huevo for gettin;; out of the Gulf; but it is necessary, in so doing, to pay ii'tm-
tion to the set of the current, as we have just mentioned, and also to the followiiij;:—
On June 5, 1804, at 7 P. M., His Majesty's ship Ulysses weighed from Chaguariumi*
Bay but falling calm, it was 10 o'clock on the following morning hefo.e she reacluil
the south point of Huevo, with an intention of going through Boca Navios. Here w:);
found such a strong current setting round thatjjoint to the E. S.E. that being nii;;ljkMo
stem it, she was let drive out through the l^mbrella Passage, which took up two Injure
to perform, owing to a number of eddies and opposite currents, formed by the tide ol
flood setting into the (lulf, and contending against the usual stream setting outward. It
was high water in the Bocas that day, at about half past twelve o'clock, being three days
before the new tnoon.
BOCA GRANDE. — In this channel, at ebb tide, the current runs with less velocity
than through either of the others, and at flood there is scarcely any. It is also very dean.
with the exception of the sunken rocks lying off the S. W. point of Chaca-chacare, aiiJ
pf sufficient breadth to tack at pleasure; but being the leewardmost, it is only resorieil
to in case of having failed to effect a passage by either of the preceding.
Remarks on the Currents on the Coastc of Trinidad and in the Gulf of Paria.
CURRENTS IN THE VICINITY OF TRINIDAD.— We have already stated that
the western Equinoctial or Tropical Current, occasioned by the Trade Wind, being con-
fined by the trending of the Coast of South America, is thrown in a collected force upon
Trinidad, and runs there with great strength; we have now further to observe, that the
force of this current, is still further increased along its shores by the obstruction which
the island itself presents against the inQ course of the stream; aud by the waters of the
Orinoco, v
charging it
particular!;
height, l'
tiiient, niaj
to its stren
These ci
cause. It
satisfactory
runs to the
tweeii the i
strength, tl
that point.
Passing
leagues, as
direction, ii
where it se
out of thes(
Along th
near Point
tracts the cl
and may be
The chai
the SerpenI
self over it.
in the rniddl
again contr;
the body of
into the cor
i'l 10 be obsf
the E. N. E
the effect of
Point Chuf
easterly cm
Coast, as w;
worked up
?i knots.
That par
round the >
ship bound
so little, sh(
out of the g
the Bocas.
very doul)tfi
tween Kick
the strong It
ders it very
generally oi
of working
Practical
It has bee
this country
X. E. ; and
cumstance,
the preferen
the dry seas
regard to thi
and from .Ii
and S. E. e
the eastwart
ahead of he
BLUNT\S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
453
'ai, its rnte mny
V. point of Clia-
Inod wbich sets
3 the top of hiiili
juently perfecily
the current nins
!t ordinary flood;
)d, it always runs
vinds, occasioned
idins one third ot'
shoukl not be iit-
rd one : but eiilm
luuige days of the
ill along the south
is deep water far
h the south pnint
;reat difficulty tlie
monly called, tlie
ivind hangs to the
at any rate, if the
r out again. The
)oint of Mono; a!-
e flood tide al the
1 rather less veloii-
learly slack water:
her two and bein:
advisable to keep
:alnied by the high
id, if, when a ship
mile distance, she
;arboard bow, so a^
enipt it, as the cur-
ire. With a flo«-
quently at the rate
loon at 30 niinuies
bie only under the
far su])erior to the
oing, to pay alien-
the followini;:—
'roui Clia,L'uar.uini>
pfo.e slie readiiJ
Navios. Here was
hat being uii;:bleio
took uj) t«o liijiir>
ned by the tide oi
etting outward, h
k, being three days
IS with less velocity
It is also very clean.
Chaca-chacare. and
:, it is only resorted
ing.
Gulf of Paria.
e already stated that
je Wind, being con-
loUected force upon
to observe, that the
e obstruction which
by the waters of ili«
Orinoco, which flowing through vast plains, subjoct to periodical inundations, and dis-
charging itself into the ocean near this island, sjreatly increases the current in its vicinity,
l)articularly about the months of August and September, when that river is at its greatest
height. The river Amazon also, collecting the waters of almost half the Southern con-
tinent, may, perhaps, though at the remote distance of 2S() leagues, contribute somewhat
to its strength.
These currents vary much in their velocity at dilferent times, without any apjjarent
cause. It is said they run strongest in the declining f|uarters of the moon ; but of this no
satisfactory proof has hitherto been obtained. Adapting itself to the coast, the current
runs to the northward, along the east side of Trinidad, and lakes a western direi tion be-
twcei) the island Tobago and Point (ialere, round which it runs with such accumulated
strength, that it is scarcely possible for a square-rigged vessel to beat against it, round
that point, although there are instances of its having been effected.
Passing Point Galere, it runs along the North ("oast, close to the shore, for a few
leagues, as 'ar as Rio Grande; but there it often (|iiits the shore, and takes a W. N. W.
direction, increasing its distance from the land till it gets to the northward of the I'ocas,
where it seldom prevails within 5 or 6 leagues, being repelled by the current which runs
out of these passages: there the two streams blend and run to the westward.
Along the South C'oast it always runs to the w estward, seldom less than 1 i or 2 knots,
near Point Galeota, but often more; and as the opposite sh )re of South America eon-
tracts the channel towards Point Icaciue, or Icacos. its velocity is much accelerated there,
and may be estimated generally at :> knots, but it frequently runs still stronger.
The channel between the Coast of America and the S. W. point of Trinidad, is called
the Serpent's Mouth, through which the current enters the (Uilf of Paria, dispersing it-
self over it. Near the shore of tlu; (tu'' it is subject to the influence of the tides, but
in the middle, it always runs to the norr - 'd towards the Bocas; where its channel being
again contracted, its veloci' is pro; or^.oivuly increased. Having passed these Straits,
the body of this water preserves its i. itherly direction for 5 or (> leagues, before it falls
into the comiuon course of the stream of the ocean, which is there W. N. W. Put it
i-i 10 be observed, that so soon as it has passed the Pocas, a considerable jjart diverges to
the E. N. E. and either runs with some rapidity to windward, or so thoroughly destroys
the effect of the western current, that a ship will seldom fail of working up, at least to
Point Chupara, with ease, by keejjing within a moderate distance of the shore. This
easterly current frequently extends to a considerable distance farther along the North
Const, as was experienced in the month of .Tune, 1804, when His Majesty's ship Ulysses
worked up to Rio Grande from Huevo, in 2.5 hours, although she never went more than
3 knots.
That part of the stream which goes out of the Boca Grande on the west side, turns
round the N. E. point of P^iria, and runs down that Coast with such velocity, that if a
ship bound to Trinidad should fall in with the land to leeward of this point, though ever
80 little, she must immediately stand to the northward a^nin, at least so far as 13° of hit.
ottt of the great force of the current, and work up to Grenada before she again attempts
the Bocas. Even then, if she cannot lie S. E. by S. at least, her reaching them will be
very <loubtful ; aiul her best mode of proceeding will be, to go through the passage be-
tween Kick 'em.Tenny and Carriacou, in order to weather (ireiiada, before she gets into
the strong lee current that prevails between that island and Trinidad. This current ren-
ders it very difficult for ships to fetch I'oiiit Saline in (irenada from the Bocas: they
generally only reach about 4 or .') leagues to leeward of that island ; hence the necessity
of working to windward on the North C'oast of Trinidad.
Practical Directions for 7na/dng tlie Island of Trinidad, and for entering the
Gulf of Paria.
[From the Derrotoro de las Antillas.]
It has been already obsei-ved, that from .Tuly to November is called the rainy season in
this country, in which the General Trade Wind is very light, and veering to E. S. E. and
S. E.; and that in the other mo.iths it blows fresh from N. E. or E. N. E.; this cir-
cumstance, and the two chaimels by which the Gulf of Paria may be entered, occasions
the preference to be given to the south entrance during the rains, and to the other during
the dry season. It is therefore obvious that Trinidad should be approached with due
regard to the season : from December to June the object is to make it about Point Galere ;
and from July to December, about Point (Jaleota. These two points being the N. E.
and S. E. extremities of the island, cannot fail of beinj; kn -wn. A ship coming from
the eastward, and making the body of the island, will see tuc mountain of Lebranche
ahead of her; aud a flat low shore extending from thence about 4 leagues to the north-
454
ULUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ward, wliere it is bounded by the Mortyiern range of hij^h mountains. To the soutliwnni
oC Lubrwnclic will bi' seen another, and more extensive low shore, at tlie exiictnity oi
which are the liills of (iuaya-jfuayare. Tlic range of high mountains whieh exted alona
the Northern Coast, may be seen in clear weather at the distanfie of 11 leagues, but
Point CJalere cannot be distinguished at more than ii leagues, IV being low.
T.'ie s(tundings olf the eastern eoast of tlie island to the disi ,. ce of 17 leagues, fur-
nisli a safe metliod of rectifying tlie j'laee of a sliip aniving from the eastward, and im-
der eireumstanees of night or clomiy weather, will save much time ; for being in the paiiil-
lel of the island, it is necessary to try for soundings, which may be done without nmredflny
or inconvenience than that of trying at about every -JO miles, when the ship is supposili
to be nearing t!ie land. The dejith of water and the lalilnde will give the situation ol the
ship with tolerable precision. Knowing this, no more is re(|uisite tlian to steer for the
Points (ialere or tJaleota, according to tlie season of tlie year, for entering the gulf nj.
ther by the north or south passage.* But as it frequently happens tliat two or thiir-
days elapse witlmut ohtainnig a meridian altitU(U', it is very |)ossil)le that tlie mariiiei,
supposing himself to be in the parallel of Trinidad, may actually be in that of Tobajy,
or even of (irenada, as the current sets with sucii violence to the N. VV. : for this rea-
son no opportunity ofoljserving the ! ititude either by the moon, a star, or by altiiudesoi'
the sun before and after he luis passed the meridian, should i)e neglected. It is also ad.
visable to make the land rather to tl;e soutli than to the luirlJi of either of the ])oiiit.s, ;is
the currents will always favor working to tlie northward. The t'acility is still greater in
times ol'tlie M. K. winds for getting up (roiii Point (iaieota to J'oint Galere. The pav
sage may also be made from the latter to the i'ormer, but not with so much ease. So
soon as one of the points or capes has been made out distinctly, the route to the mouths
olthe gulf is ns follows :
From Point Galere a ship may run along the coast at the distance of two miles, with
an uiuierstanding of its being ijuite clean, as before describi'd.
Point Coroz'.'l may be approached to halt' a mile. It will then be better to close more
upon the land, to reach the mouths with greater facility.
Dlrcctiuns for the Bocas.
From the description already given of tlie islands which form the Rocas, and also
of the Bocas, it is evident that the Boca Huevo, or Umbrella Passage, should becliusui
lor entering the gulf, and that the best time is with a (lowing tide, and with a wind thai
will ensure the ready working of the ship; but if there be a four-knot breeze, there is uu
necessity to wait for the tide. At iiiglu, if the weather be clear, there is no incon-
venience in entering the lluevos (jhainiel, as tlie only risk is of getting too close tu one
of the little islets, and which is almost imjiossible to happen ; but if calms, scant winds;,
want of tide, darkness, t)r excess ol" caution, sliould determine the uiariner to wait for a
more favorable opiiortuiiity, he may anchor about two thirds of a mile from the coast in
18 or 20 liitlioms, except the wind be N. E., which raises a heavy sea : in such a case
he will do better by kee|.iiiig under sail, and making short tacks on and olf shore. Alon^
the coast from ]*uint Toco to Point Chupara, the bottom is soft mud ; on the meridian
of tli(! latter point it is coarse sand and fine gravel ; and to the west of it, so far as the
moutjjs, it is mud of a greenish color. These differences in the bottom will point oiu
with sufficient accuracy wliat part of the coast the ship is on.
When a ship has passed through either of the cliamiels, site should be kept close to
die wind, on the larboard tack, in order to get away from the mouths, and near the
coast of Trinidad ; and she sliould, in general, be continued on tliis tack so long as the
riood tide lasts, that she may go on the starboard tack so soon as the ebb begins, with a
certainty of reaching tlie anchorage, or at least within a very little of it. It may pro-
bably appear to some persons, more eligible to luake several tacks after entering the
gulf, and particularly so if the larboard tack is not the most advantageous ; but it imisl
be remembered that tlie strongest currents are in the narrows, and therefore from re-
maining near the mouths, in eonse(|uenee of having made several tacks, it would not be
extraordinary if the ebb tide should force thetn through the channel again, or compel
them to anchor to prevent it; and even if neither of these circumstances should take
place, the ebb will be found unfavorable for gaining the Port d'Kspagne. On the otht.
hand, by having stood on the larboard tack within the gulf, if necessary, as far as the
parallel of Mount Najiarima, the ebb tide will then very favorably assist the ship nn the
starboard tack, perhaps, so much as to reach the anchorage, or it will be gained by an-
other short board. If calms or very light winds prevent gaining ground by keeping
* It is necessary to be cautious of the sunken rock that lies about 7 leagues S. E. J S. from Point
Galere.
under sail,
strength of
hie ; beeau:
ble in weig]
fathoins. ac
At al)r)ut
fathoms; IV
ihonis, wliii
lar, though
leagues tVoi
crease sudd
the shore :
and a half i
town of J5re
orH.by K.
Huniiing
miles from
the shore,
t bonis 2 mil
nut it. Go
tlie latter to
" The fol
.'^amuelCha
we tried the
but when al
had not the
According t
Bocas, wher
but the largf
For when tl
fathoms wat(
So soon as
the island at
iu from 7 to
is of did'erer
no reason to
On clearing
least risk, to
convenient.
The First
of it, distant
with U fatho
cos, as before
so steep, that
this channel :
W. with the
The Secor
ing to the N.
los S,. 60° W
est extent of
nel set in neai
n^he Third
(Soldier's Isb
is about two s
part ofSoldat
flood tide the
AV. and W. J
The Fourt
of it and the n
* In going til
Cliaca-chacare,
\) tlin southwiinl
ilic exUTiiilly ui
liicli exted aUinii
1 1 leiigui's, but
iig low.
■ 17 leaRurs. fur-
astwanl, and un-
eing in tlie p;ii;i|.
ilhoiU iiioredelMv
ship is siippo!i(,il
le situation ol'tlie
n to steer Cor the
erinir tlic sjuif n-
that two or tiiin-
hat the niariiiei,
1 that of Tol)ag(;,
VV. : 4br this re;i-
or by iiitiuuk'sdi
,'d. It is also ;iii-
r of the ])oints, ;is
is still jjreatei- m
ialere. Tlie pnv
niuch ease. So
ite to the mouths
of two miles, with
liter to close mure
? Rocas, and also
, sliould becliosui
1 with a wind lliat
ccze, there is iw
here is no iiicui!-
too close tu Olli;
ms, scant wimis,
ner to wait for a
from the coast in
in such a tiise
if shore. Along
on the ineriuiaii
f it, so far as the
HI will point out
l)e kept dose to
hs, and near the
fk so long us tlie
bb begins, with a
it. It may pin-
iftc'r enteriiii^ the
ous ; but it nubl
ic re fore from re-
s, it would not he
igain, or compel
nces should talvC
le. On the otht,
sary, as far as the
t the ship on the
1 be gained by an-
■ound by keeping
Blum's American coast pilot.
45
iO
'
, E. I S. from Point
under sail, the krdge anchor may be let go; it will be sulficient to hold against tiic
strengtii of tiic tide, and the use of large anchors should l)e avoided as much as possi-
ble; becauM' as they l)iiry themselves so deep intliesol't mud, thno is considerable trou-
ble in weighing lliem. In I'ort (I'lCspagnc siiips may anchor in the 8. W. part, in 4 or5
fathoms, according to the ship's draught : moor N. W. and 8. K.
Atai)out 4 mibs within the Jioca;;, sotindings may lie got with the haiul line, in 20
fathoms; from whence, in standing southward, the water soon shoals to 14. 13, and l'2fa-
ihouis. which depths will (lontinue several miles ; l)ul the souudinus are not ((uite regu-
lar, though nearly so, there beinvr sonn; small banks with (> or 7 fathoms (m them, .') orb
leagues iVom the shore. When about (> or 7 niileB from Point Urea, the depths will in-
crease suddenly to 17 and if^ fathoms; the latter will continue until about -2!, miles from
the shore: the water then shoals gradually to .3 fathoms, about the length of a cable
and a half from the beach. The best aticliora;;e off this ])art of the islatnl is with the
town ofHrea. which consists of 5 or (i old houses near the beach, bearing about south,
or 8. by K. one mile off tlu' shore, in (> or 7 failionis.
Kuniiiu!.' down the coast to the southward from Port d'Kspagne, observe that about 8
miles from it, and otVa point of mangroves, there are on'y "Jl fathoms, at Ij,' mile from
the shore. To the iu)rfli-wesfward from Xajiarima Hill about 7 miles, there are 2?, fa-
thoms 2 miles distant from the !;md. and this bank is steep, with 111 fathoms not far with-
out it. Go into no less than 4^ fathoms between Point Brea and Point Cedrcj ; from
the latter to Point los (iallos, the shore is llat, and ;i ship may be guided by the lead.
" The following remarks on 15oca Huevo were made in 8epteiid)er, 182(), by Captain
.*>amuel Chambers, of his Majesty's ship Druid. J le says — ' As had been recommended,
we tried the second passage two dill'creiit evenings, approaching it w ith a line breeze ;
hut when almost through, both times, the current forced her out ; and the second night,
had not the l)oats been ready down, and she a ((ui( k ship, she must have gone on .shore.
According to calculation, this was at (iood title. We immediately bore u|) for the Creat
Bocas, where we soon got through ;* therefore T by no means recommend any passage
but the large one. as the advantage is trilling coinparative with the safety of your ship.
For when through either, in less than an hour, witli a moderate breeze, you come in 13
fathoms water, when you may anchor.' "
t
Description of and Dircrfio7ts foi- the South Chavnd.
So soon as the ship has reached Point (iaieota, she should be ke])t along the shore of
the island at the distancre of two miles or less; at the distam-e of two miles she will be
ill from 7 to ') fathoms, clear of all risk ; and although it may be perceived that the water
is of dilVerent colors, particularly to the eastward of Point lierin and about it, there is
1)0 reason to l)c suspicious of shoals, as tiie variety ol' colors is o(;casioned by the current.
On clearing Point Quemada, she may near the shore to a f|uarter of a mile, without the
least risk, to gain that channel which, under the existing circumstances, may be most
convenient.
The First Channel is formed by Point Icacos, or Tcaque, and a shoal lying to the west
of it, distant about half a mile, and whi(^h is from ea-;t to west about two cables' length,
with H fathom, rocky bottom. In the channel there are ') fathoiris water. Point lea-
cos, as before said, is a sandy promontory, advancing into the sea in a circular form, but
so steep, that at half a cable's length from it, there are 7 or 8 fathoms. The current in
this channel sets to the 8. W. at the Hood, with a velocity of 2.y miles per hour, and N.
W. with the ebb. at the rate of .'5 and 3'; miles.
The 8econd (Tiannel is formed by the rocky shoal and a hank of rock and gravel ly-
ing to the N. W.. upon which there are 4 fathoms. This bank bears from Point Gal-
los 8, G0° W., distant 3 miles, and from Icacos N. 73^ W., distant 2 miles. The great-
est extent of it is three ([uarters of a mile N. W. and .S. E. The currents in this chan-
nel set in nearly the same direction as in the preceding one. Its breadth is about a mile.
The Third Channel lies between the bank last mentioned and the Islote del 8oldado,
(Soldier's Islet,) with the reefs and shoals on the south and 8. K. of it. This channel
is about two short miles from east to west. About 2^ cables from the reef off the eas(
l)art of Soldado, there are (> fathoms water, in mid-channel H, and near the bank ii\. At
flood tide the current sets W. by 8. with the velocity of 3.^ miles; ami with the ebb N.
W. and \V. N. W. at the rate of4 and 4;^ miles per hour. "
The Fourth (Jhannel is formed by the 8oldado with the reefs and shoals on the south
of it and the main land. Tlie breadth of it is about 4 miles. The currents always set to
* In goina: through this passage bo careful nf the rock t'lat lies W. S. W. from the S. W. point of
Chaca-chacare, aa well as that which lies one third of a mile due west from it.
456
BLUNT'S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
hoi
id-chR
the N. W. and W. N. W. with a velocity of 4,1 or 5 miles per hour, in mid-channel,
and near Soldado ; but at halt' a mile from tlie main it runs only from 1 i to 2 miles.
To enter the First Channel, it is only necessary to near Point Icacos at about ara-
ble's length, lurting up by degrees as it is jjassed, and then steering north, to pass at a
convenient distance from the Points Corral and Callos. 'JMiis passage can never beat.
tended with difficulty, either by day or night, especially at ebb tide, as the current wi||
keep the ship clear of the shoal ; and if it should be necessary to anchor, there will be
no risk of getting aground, as the shoal will be at least 3 cables' length distant fromihe
ship.
To enter the Second Channel, it will be necessary, after having passed Point Qnp.
niada, and approached the coast to a quarter of a mile, to place the ship's head towards
Soldado, and keep her so until Point (Jallos comes open of I'oinl Corral, and then lutf,
but without going to tlie N. N. E. until Point C^orral bears east ; she may then be kept
along the coast of Trinidad.
To pass thn)Uij;li the Third Channel, the ship's head ought to be placed towards tlip
Soldado, in the same manner as for the second, and kept in that direction until Point (ia|.
los bears N. 67^ E. ; then luff up to N. until the south front of Point Icacos bears S.
E. by E., and Point Callos N. 83^ E.; then run along the coast of the island.
To pass through the Fourth Channel, you have only to pass at 2 miles S. of the Sol-
dado, and when it bears N. K. lulf up to N., and keep luffing by little and little to coa<i
along the island of Trinidad. Care must be taken not to get within two miles of the
Soldado, observing that the current will set the ship strongly to the N. W.
Hence it results, that at any time a ship may enter the gulf by the South Channels,
even by night, if not very dark; that the First Channel is the best, not only because it
is the windward one, but by keeping the luff, every danger will be avoided, especiajiv
with the ebb tide. In fact, there can be no danger whatever, if an anchor be ready to
let go in ca^e of a sudden calm, or other cause, that might carry the ship towards tlif
shoal. In the night time either of the channels can be more easy to enter than the first;
for as the point must necessarily be passed within a cable's length, every impediinen:
from darkness will be avoided, because at so short a distance it can be very distinctly
seen.
But however easy the entrance into tlie gulf by tliesc channels is, if any circnrnstancf,
either of calm or want of daylight, may render it advisable to wait some time before
attempting it, the ship can be anchored on the south coast of Trinidad ; for if kept tm.
der way and tacking, as the current always sets inward, it will be very difficult to main.
tain a determinate i)osition,
On getting through the channels into the gulf, steer for the west coast of Trinidad,
and keep along it, at 2\ or 3 miles distant, as far as Brea Point. Port d'Espagire i<
not above 8,r leagues from this ])oint, and by steering N. by E. | E. the buildings inii
will soon be discovered. Kthis course cannot be made good, recourse nmst be had if
tacking ; but the boards must not be stretched within 4 miles of the shore, on accountoi
tlie shoal that lies off it ; and if standing into the Bay of Naparima, it will be necessarv
to be careful of two shoals, one west of the mount, distant about 2^ miles, and the other
S. 75° W. of it, distant 4 miles. In proceeding from Brea Point to Port d'Esp-innc,
the depths are from 7 to 12 fathoms, at the distance of 3 miles from the point; tlienU
fathoms for about a mile ; after which, 18 or 19 lathoms for nearly 10 miles ; and thea
a gradual decrease to 5 fathoms, at the distance of 2^ miles S. S. W. from the town,
Good fresh water may be obtained from two small rivers in the bay, about a mile to
the southward of Point Brea; at high water, a boat may land close to it. Wood can lie
procured in abundance with little trouble, as the trees are very large, and close to tire
waterside.
In September, 1821, his Majesty's ship Forte, Capt. Sir T. J. Cochrane, passed over
a bank with only 4 fathoms water on it, at about 4 or 5 miles northward of the Soldado,
and the same distance from the shore. The Captain says, " I felt a very strong smell ci'
tar, or pitch, and observed some of the former floating on the surface, whicli, no doubt,
oo'/ed from the bank below. I have since learned it is composed of pitch, and that\tlicre
is a spot on it with only 3 fathoms water ; but being suddenly called from the station,
1 had not time to ascertain that fact."
TUE C
In the dei
gos,) it was
care and tin
steep islet, c
ill Trinidad
south, for t!
northward t
miles due w
till! shi.re pt
distance of a
Cape Tre
tinues to be
tance of two
Una re Ba
it is necessai
shoal extern
bottom, imn
ami on the h
S. W. point
a mile. Pas
eriy one, wil
i-'roiii Uiii
for the s])ac(
fai-ther, to C
clean, and in
ing and dists
miles.
TESTIG<
miles, lie the
besides sever
clean, and m
with those bi
proached to
that which li
half a mile ft
ing in case o(
lies N. \V. ar
age, shelteret
be approache
outside of th*
and another 1
part, betweer
length from t
y fathoms, on
Between til
of them, lies
avoided by la
From Capi
Santo. Thii
* From the ]
t The Testi]
and, abounds '
ahold shore, ar
Otis, Captain t^
I from shore, the
current setting
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
457
ur, in mid-channel,
III li to 2 miles,
cacos at about a oa-
^ north, to |)ass at a
ige can never be at-
, as the current will
inchor, there willbe
ijth distant i'romihe
passed Point Quo.
ship's head tovvaids
;orral, and then lutr,
le may then be kept
! placed towards tliP
:ion until Point (iul.
oiut icacos bears S,
the island,
miles S. of the Sol-
le and little to coa*!
lin two miles of the
N. W.
he South Channels,
not only because n
e avoided, especialh
I anchor be ready to
the ship towards ihf
I enter than the first;
h, every inipedimen;
an be very distincth
if any circumstancp.
it some time before
idad ; for if kept iin-
ery difficult to man;-
t coast of Trinidad,
Port d'Espagiie i'
. the buildings ini:
)urse nmst be iiadii
shore, on account m
, it will be necessan
miles, and the other
to Port d'tlspasjiie.
n the point; tlienU
10 miles : and tim
V. from the town,
bay, about a mile ti
to it. Wood can be
■ge, and close to the
:)chrane, passed ovei
ward of the Soklado,
very strong sniell i'\
ice, which, no do'il ',
pitch, and that\there
led from the staiiun,
THE COAST OF COLOTIBIA, FRO^ THE C^VLF OF
PARI A TO CARTHAIiiEIVA.''
Tn the description of the island of Trinidad, and (he Dragon's Mouth, (Bocas de Dra-
gos,) it was saiil that the fourth, or Boca (Jrande, is formed by the island of Chaca-cha-
care and the main land. The most projecting, or N. K. point of the coast forms a lofty
steei) islet, called the Morro. This lies about 4 leuj^aes, >f. 7d^ W., from Point Mono,
in Trinidad. From the Morro the coast runs westward, with a little inflection to the
south, for the distance of V) miles, to the Bay of Mexilloncs, whence it trends a little
northward to Cape Tres Puntas, (Three I'oints,) which is distant from the Morro 50
miles (li'e west. The whole of the land alon^ this spkue is hijrh and mountainous, and
the shi.re perfectly clean, so that it may be run along by at half a mile distant. At the
distance of a mile there are from 20 to 40 fathoms, on a bottom of muddy sand.
Ca|)C Tres Puntas is the most northerly cape of all this part of the coast, and it con-
tinues to be equally as clean and deep as the preceding part, to the Bay of Unare, a dis-
tance of two miles.
Unare Bay jjresents a good anchorage, sheltered from the trade wind. To enter it,
it is necessary to keep about a mile from the N. E. point, which is fronted by a rocky
shoal extending half a mile out; then stand in and anchor in 5 or 4^ fathoms, sandy
bottom, immediately on getting round within the point. A little river falls into this bay,
and on the hill to the east of it, there is an Indian town named San Juan de Unare. The
S. W. point of the bay sendsolVa reef, with several islets upon it, to the distance of half
a mile. Passing outside of them, and at about two cables' length from the most north-
erly one, will clear every danger.
From Unare Bay the coast continues to run west, with some inflections to the south,
for the space of 10 miles, whence it turns gradually to the northward of west, for 9 mile.s
farther, to Cape Mala Pascua, between which and Cape Three Points all the shore is
clean, and may be coasted at a mile's distance, in 8 fathoms, sandy bottom. The bear-
ing and distance from Cape Three Points to that of Mala Pascua, are S. 83i° W. 20,1
miles.
TESTIGOS ISLANDS.— Nearly N. i W, from this cape, at the distance of 40
miles, lie the little islands called the Testigos. These consist of seven principal islands,
besides several farallones, or high rocks. The passages between the islands are free and
clean, and may be run through without any risk whatever; but the contrary is the case
with those between the rocks, for they are very narrow. All those islands may be ap-
proached to the distance of two cables' length, cr even nearer, if necessary, excepting
that which lies most to the north-eastward. This is surrounded by a reef extending
half a mile from it. Between the islands the bottom is sandy, and will admit of anchor-
ing in case of necessity. The principal islanil, called Testigo Grande, (Great Testigo,)
lies N. W. and S. E., about 2,^ miles in length. The I^*. W. jjart allbrds good anchor-
age, sheltered from the trade wind, with a depth of 8 to 15 fathoms, coarse sand. It may
be approached either by the N. W. or S. E. side. If by the former, it must be on the
outside of the rock that lies off it ; if by the latter, the passage is between the great island
and another lying S. W. of it. The channel i* sufficiently spacious; for at the narrowest
part, between the rock at the east side of the little island, and another about a cable's
Ipngtii from the S. VV. coast of the large island, it is half a mile wide, with a depth of Site
y fathoms, on red gravel. f
Between these islands and the coast, there are soundings. About 5 miles to the S. S. E.
of them, lies a large bank of sand, with 4^ and 5^ fathoms water on it, which should be
avoided by large ships.
From Cape Mala Pasqua the coast runs nearly west 7 or Smiles to the Blorro of Porto
Santo. This Morro is joined to the shore by a little low sandy tongue ; and very near to
* From the Derrotero de las Islas Antillas, &e. &c. kc, seguiido edicion, Madrid, 1820.
+ The Testigos may be seen from the distance of 5 leagues. The Great Testioo, called Goat Isl.
nnd, abounds with land tr,, ,oises. It is not inhabited, except in the season, by turtlcrs. It appears
ahold shore, and has a sandy beach near its north end. Augrust 27, 1826, his Majesty's ship Valor-
ous, Captain the Earl of Huntington, anchored here in Ifi fathoms, on sandy bottom, about 1 J mile
I from shore, the north end of the island bearing N. i H. and the south end E. S. E. J E. ; found the
current setting west north-westward, li mile per hour. No fresh water to be ''ad.
53
458
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
the >rnrro on the west, Tips an islet rallcil I'orU) Satitc
() the wpsfwan
loftl
10
iimiv
Tdnmu', is an anclima^c slicllcrcd rnini llin tiMili- wiini, in 4', to ')', rallmnis water, ^i,t,^
<l. Tl
•iifd to 'J '•al)lrs' It
anil niiKl. l lie north Mdc ot the .Morrn ami i;*lai(l in ly he approaclit-d lo •,' ''ainrs MMii;i||,
if ncci'ssary. To uaiii tli<' aiiflioraijc, ininirflialciy alter pas^sing llir island, steer S, m
S. Ijy V\ . and nnelior in 4,t or o- (iithoin.i, so soon as shelter t'roiii the wind is ol>taiiifi|;
but takinsi eare not to t;et to the eastward of the western part of the islet, heeanse ii|,.,p
lies a bank in that direction with oidy :! I'aihoiiis water on it. i^onlhward from the Miir.
ru, and al)out 'J leamii's inland, stands ilie nioniitain of I'orto .Santo.
l''roin ihis l);iy the coast inclines to W. .s. W. for the spat t? of .'!.', miles, and sends (,|i
a bank with liitlc water on it, about half a mile, and exiendimj; all the \vay to the pdim
of Ilernan VaM(]ne/., which tbrms another little bay with an anchorage of .'i.J itj f,' i,.
thoiiis water, sheltered from the trade wind. From a river that disendiouncs intii i| ,.
Hay of llernan \'as(|ne/.. fresh water may be (d)tained ; and lo the sonllnvard of lu
western point, oil" whicli is a small islet, stands the town of (.'arnpano : two miles we>ti,i
Cariipano are the point and Mono of Salines, or of Jarro, with an islet near to it, wlmli,
with the point of flernan Vasipie/, forms the bay of ("arnpano, inelnding that ot Hir-
nan Vastjncz. 'I'here are two shoals at llu^ entrance of this bay, lyini; a little to il;i.
northwaid of the parallel of INiint llernan \'as(Hie/. and westward of the ineridiiin ,,|
Carnpano: of these, the (irsi has •>'! fathoms on it, with ,'),', close to, and lies one riii;
\V. N. W. from the |)oint; the other lies 1^ mile \V. ^ N. from the same point, and p
mile N. E. from Point Salines: this has 1,'; fathom on it, with 4,' fathoms dose to r.
A third shoal, of .'5| fathoms, with .') close to it. lies within the bay, at three ((nartprsoi
a mile W. ,<. W. \ \V. from Point llernan \'as(|ue/,, and the same distance north Ikiu
the town of Carnpano; and westward of the \own there is a bank with litlle water oim,
exlendini; from the shore northward nearly three (|uarters of a mile, and one mile E.N.
E. from the islet at Point Saliii"::.
MURPvO HLANCO,— From tlie Point and Mono of Salines to Mono Blanco,.
distance of three miles nearly west, the (:,->ast is clean, with several paiclies of sn
rocks lyiii!,' (dose to the shore : nearly south of this Morro, and about 'A leagues iniiu. ■
the Mountain of San .lose, or St. .Joseph, may be seen.
From Morrn Hlanco to the we.itward, a hank runs off. v ith little water on it, that dif.
not permit the coast to be approached nearer than 'J miles ; on this part of it, thtnciup,
1st, the Point and Morro of Padilla, known by an islet and several rocks extendini; in -
little distance from it : -Jd. the Point and Mono of Taijuien, which inojects \;n\\:n
northward than the preceding, and is also stirrounded by several islets: IJd, the 3Ionn
of Lebranche, which is joined to the main by a low sandy and swampy toriizne of hiiil;
and 4th, the Morro de la Esmeralda, or Kmerald ^lorro, which is an islet separated irm;
the coast by a channel of about half a cable's leiiiith wide. Between Tjebriuiclic ;ir,-
the Emerald Morro, at a moderate distance from the land, lie the (iarrapotas Islets; bn;
from rocks and shoals there is no passaiie between them : there is, however, betwpcnily
most southerly islet and the main land, a ijood |)assa.<j;e ; but the better way always. \-\a
go on the outside of them, especially with lar^jt! ships. From Morro Blanco Id tl;»
point of Taquien, the distance is .')'. miles N. h;}!" W. and thence to the Emerald Mono,
8\ miles S. 7,>" W. Southward of the latter, and about 115 miles inland, will be seen
Mount Redondo.
ESMERALDA BAY.— To the westward of the Emerald ^.lorro there isfnrmoda
large bay, but it is obstructed by a bank, with very irregular soundings, which exli'in!;
from the middle of the Morro about .south, and ,S. W. nearly a mile, then S. \V. I)v>,
to within one third of a mile of the coast, whence it turns to the westward, and rii;i-
parallel to the shore, at about that distance from it. In the bay and on the bank, l\m'
are three islets, called the (Jascabels, lying nearly east and we.st. Un going to anclior
in this bay, ships may pass as close as may be necessary to the north and west of Knif-
raid Island, and anchor under shelter of it, at the distance of 2 cables' length, in oUu
6^ fathoms water, sandy mud.
From this bay the coast runs west about 5 miles to the Point and Morro of M;iiiza-
nilla, all the way bounded, at the distance of one third of a mile, by a bank wliicii ex-
tends from the Emerald Isle. The Point of Man/.anilla forms a bay ; but it isobstnut-
ed by the same bank of which we have sp(>ken, and which terminates at the fust steep
^, ill.
point, about two thirds of a mile to leeward of the bay ; it not only im|)edes entranc
to the bay, but also prevents steering to the southward before getting to the westwnnloi
the said steep point. From this situation, west of the point, the coast is (juile cle;
leiiil-
6 said steep point. From this situation, west of the point, the coast is (juile cle.in I
the space of 8 miles, to Point (iuarapoluro, where another bank begins, ami ex
two thirds of a mile from the coast. About one mile N. E. of Point Gnarapotuio lies
a sunken rock that must be carefully avoided. A little eastward of this point, and nboni
a league inland, will be seen the peak of a mountain called Pico del Este, Peak of the
East!.
ifliree nii
ShiHd Poiiii
j \. VV\.ver\
Tnacopala, \
t'le coast t;
iViiin llie niii
wf-l of (^ari
iMst part of I
of the coast,
liinii's to <_'a
tliat at Cayn
more than li
iN. H- K. 1 1
; Island Mar^
(if this chain
dpscription o
ceed iloiig tl
islands.
From the
salient poinl'-
and .Nlorro (b
somiMvliat to
( this |)oinl lie-
La Pena, tin
;, tance of ii,' i'
(niarliin, or (
■' low land and
little extent.
From Poll
or Kdily Poir
latter bears IV
u front extern
whence the c
i\)[[cc being a
called Point (
employed in I
sends oil' a b;i
funr miles we
terminates at
the south sid(
Thence soiitl
PiUidy beach h
tiniies for 2 ni
of the Ridge
(liately within
sanctuary, dei
direction of S
hut all of it is
of the little bi
tie in a ruinou
a!)ont S. E. b
rection to S. .
Sandy Point,
of Cariaco.
a mile south i
Here we sn
THE ISL
east to west, al
the north, it a
it. On the ea
Cape Three 1
called Macan:
from Chacop;
tance of l.S ni
sending off a
lie about a mil
HLU.NTS AMEIUCW COAST I'll.OT.
459
ward nf tlin S;unlv
itlmiiis Wfitrr. s;ii,fj
til ■,' '.'iihltrs' It-'iiyili,
isliiiid, sti'cr S. or
' wind h (d)iHiiifii;
isli't, l)i'(:;nis«' tliiio
vitid iVoiii the Mill.
miles, mid scuds (,|i
ic \vii_v 1(1 I lie |Miiiii
nigt! ol' !')}, to 'i' !i.
;ciid)Oi;ucs into tij
e soiillnviird u\ m
: I w(i miles wist,,i
et ne:ii- to it, "Imii,
hiding tli;it ot llir-
y'lnu, ;i little to tiif
I of the riu'iidiiiii,,!
, and lies (inc iiu'f
siime point, iinil ]'
atlinnis ( lose to i',
at lliree (|nailprs m
distance north Irtm
.til little water oin;,
and one mile E. N.
o ^lorro Bliuicd, ,
il palclies of sn.;]
ut 3 leagues iiilain:.
ater on it, tlial dcp.
part of it, ilu'i(';i|p
ocUs extending; \i<\
cli projects j;iitlifi
ets : .']d, tlie Morm
)y tonaue of liiiil;
islet separated froir;
en Tiebranclif m
rapotas Islets ; hii;
wever, between lly
er way always, isiii
rro Blanco to tb
le Kmerald Moii\
nland, w ill be seen
0 tiiere is formcih
i;:s, wliicli exU'iii>
, then S. W. 1)\>.
westward, and riiii-
011 the bank, tlier'
Un going to anchor
iiid west of Knif-
es' leiiiitli, in .5_; lu
1 Morro of yhwa-
1 iiaiik wliitli e\-
but it is obstnui-
es at the fust sfci'ii
iijic'des entranct' in-
to the westwiird ni
ist is (|uite clean fur
egins, and exiemls
It (juarapotuio lies
his point, and ahoiii
I Este, Peak of tlie
Three miles westward from (iiiarapotiim f'oitif, i« ti,.i» of Kmudo IJhinro, or White
Shii'ld I'oint, the coast hcm^ steep and lii;'li; hut tVoni that the coast runs out about
\. \\'.,verv low and .swampy, I'orllie space ofv;| iniles, where there ri«e.>t a .Morro called
( iiainpata, which lorim a pitiiii, projci liii'^ into the sea almoit J miles. l'"rom tliis point
till! coast takes a soulheiiy direciifui and forms a ;;ieat bay, in which, at 1 ,' mile west
liiiiii the middle of the said .NIorro, there is a little isl.ind called Cuibi-s; at about a miln
west of (Jnribes island is an islet called l)e Ijcdxis, or lite Wolf, with a rock close to the
i-ist n;irt ol' it. Tlie shoal bank that be;;ins at (fiiai.ip'itiira I'omt. also borilers this part
uf ihe coast, and reaches alioiitoiie third of a mile from the Morro I'oint ; it theme con-
tinues to ('aribtis Island, whence it turns to the soiitli, bearing so close up on the shore
rliat at Cayman INuiit, the soutiieriiinost and wesfciiiuiost of the bay, it does not extend
more than half a mile.
\. S K. (Voiii Chacopata. at the distance of 17 mileo, lies the eastern point a( tlie
Island Margarita, foriniiig with the main land a ch iiinel 11 miles wide. In the middle
of this channel are the C-'o< he, or ('oach, and Cuagiia. or<'ubagua Islands; and as i
description (d' the coasts on both sides of this channel will be necessary, we w ill (irst pru
ceeil ilong that of the main, so far as Araya, and then return to Margarita and the other
islands.
Kioin the Point and .Niorro of Cayman, the coast is level toward the west, the only
salient points being thosti of Tuna, a mile and a half from the preceding, and the Point
and .Morro del Castillo, '2 miles beyond 'Tuna. From Castillo Point, tlie const iii<dines
MiiniMvliat to the north, as far as the I'oiiit and Morro of f^a Pena, a distance ol' -l miles :
this point lies S. 77^ W. 14t indes from the Morro of Chacopata. I'rom the I'oint of
La I'ena, the coast descends somewhat to the soul liward uf west to Point (Jorda, a dis-
tance (d" '2 1 miles, from which it I'orms a bay with a very lint shore and beacii to Point
(tiiachin, or Ltiiaranache, forming a piece of steep and high land, which rises above tlie
low land and seems insulated by it : along the sliore of the Ijay, there \.i a steep point of
little extent, called .Miiias. From Point tiorda to that {>{' (hiachin, it is G\ milry.
Fiom i'oint ( Jiiaidiin the siion' continui-s low and (lat, so far as I'linta del F.scarcco,
or Fildy i'oint, where ii rises a little : ilie distance from one to the other is :-;.', iiiile-s : the
I latter hears t'roin the Point of La Penii N. 85" \V . I'J.V miles. Point Hscar. co presents
' a front extending half a mile, the western rxtremity of which is tailed I'oint Cardon,
whence the coast bends to .*^. 49' W. a distance of 21 miles, to Point .\raya, the whole
space iieiiig a very low sandy beacli. About half a mile tVr)iii Aiaya Point is anotlier,
called Point fMiica. On Araya Point there are a lew small houses, inliabiied by people
einploved in the salt works. All the onast, from Point Cayman to that of Escarceo,
sends off a bank about half a mile from shore, an;l which from the latter tioint extends
four miles westward, forming what is called the Araya .'^hoal, the south edge of which
tprinin:.\tes at Point Cliica, lo the sovithward of Point ,\raya. This will be cleared on
the south side by bringing the most southerly of the lioi >«s on the Point to be.ar east.
Thence southward the coast may be approached at -J cables' length; for althou'rh the
Kindy beach is very (lat, at that distance there are .') or (> fathoms water. The beach con-
tinues lor '2 miles about S. .S. E. to Punta de Piedias, formed by the western extremity
of the Kidge of (niaranat he; this Point shows a front of about half a mile, and imme-
diately within it the land rises to a lofty hill ; (ui the soiilh [) trt of" it stands a chapel, or
sanctuary, dedicated lo the A'ir<riti of Agua S,>nta. 'J'he coast continues in the same
direction of S. .S. E. to I'oint Harragon ; 't iirst it is low and sandy, and afterward steep,
but all of it is so clean that it may be coasted at a cable's length. Un th(> south i)oiiit
of the little bay of .\raya, where the high land ot' Point Jiiirragcm begins, iliere is a cas-
tle in a ruinous state. From Point Harrauoii the coast continues higli and very clear«,
aliout S. E. by .S. a distance of 2 miles, to Poiflt Caney, from whence il changes its di-
rection to S. E. by E. and c>)ntinues for rather more than a mile to Punta de .\venas, or
Sandy Point, which is the soiith'-rnm st part of this coast, and northernmost of the liulf
of Cariaco. From Point Caney there is a bank extending along the coast as far as half
i a mile south of Point Arenas.
I Here we susjiend our description of the coast and return to
'■ THE ISLAND OF MARGARITA.— The greatest hmgth of this island i-s from
east lo west, about .37.1 miles ; it is mountainous, and, w hen seen at a short distance from
the north, it appears like two islands, from a space of low swampy land in the middle of
it. On the eastern part there are several heights, that may be seen in clear weatlier frotn
Cape Three Points, a distance of 24 leagues; and on the west part a ridge ef heights
called Macanao. The eastern point is named Ballena. and. as before said, lies N. 8*^ E.
! from Chacopata Morro; the coast runs thence N. N. W. \ W, to Cape La Isia, a dis-
tance of 1.3 mdes, forming the N. E. side of the island. The whole of it is clean, only
sending off a bank of about .3 caiiles in breadth; two islets, named Isles of the Cape,
lie kbout a mile and a half south-eastward uf tlic Cupe, aud about half a mile t'rouisborc.
400
iilu.nt's ameuican coa.ht IMI.OT.
From f'ape T,ii Tsli tlui coMt riitm S. W. Ity W. to I'oint I<ii (i;il(>rn, a spac« nf 7 niilf,,
:ill clciiii; thin* is iil.><() mm iisli't lyiiiK 1,', mih' N. K Uy N. rnmi tlic piiiiil, iiiiiiifd l^ai,,,.
leni, having hrtwccn tliiMii M tatlioiiH wiiicr, on Naiid iiml nIhIN. Knmi i'oint Lh {',,,\^.
til t(» I'oinf Marin IjiIxp, it is S. W. ^ S. :i\ iiiilrs; liciwceii ilicsc points ilicrc ih a l.ir;;^
bay* wiih a bank 'Mlxin;; tin- Hbnrr.s (if it, wliidi in the cenlie runs oil' nrarly a Jnilt-. ("i,
tlif Nhori' (ippositf III till- wiliest part ol the bank, Ntaiuls an Iii' .i village.
I'oint (li'l Tiinar brars t'roin that of Maria Libri; N. H.J \V., at ibt; dislanc*' of ip
iiiib's : in the inlerinciliatt; Npacc then? is a vrry lar^c bay, niiinini.' alioni Ti inili-.s iiilmni]
Tlie whob; ol I'JH bay is vrry clean, and presents no other daiinir than the bank wliii|i
borders it, which, at the widest part, extendN only about half u mile fioiii the land: i||,
shore at the extretiiilv of the bay is a low swampy beaeh. A reef of eoiisidernble exinn
runs (id in a N. N. k. direition from Point del Tiiiiar. I'"riim this point the r(i;i«(
trends alioni W. by S. for 8 miles, to Point did Ti^re, the whole very clean, and iii;i\lf
coasted within half a mile; from tiie latter point the land bends tu S. 7 J W. (or 'J' mil,,
to the Morro of Holiledar, and thence S. S. VV. adistanee of 4.\ miles, to the I'uniUiif
Arenas, which is the western extremity of the island. The bank of shallow water wlinh
purroiinds tiie const, extends about I ', mile I'rom this western part of the isl.uid. betwen
the Morro of Kobledarand Pi-int Arenas. About N. W. -^ N. l', niiles from Point Aik
nas, and W. ,', S. l miles from the Morro of Kobledar, lies the eastern cd^e ol a nali
shoal, named the Ostial, haviii!; on its shallowest part 4 \ fathoms ; it thence extends iiliom
N. \V. by W. ;{ miles, and is nevly iiiniUi wide. Hetween it and the Morro of Kohl,.
dar, tiiere are from .0 to 7 fatiioms, on sand and mud; to the northward and wesitvupi
the soundings extend to a considerable distance; but ou the iS. VV. side, at a shuit d,-.
tatice, the water is very deep.
Three miles and a half about S. W. from liallena Point, arc Point Moreno and a Mm
ro; the intermediate coast foiins a sjiacious bay, on the north side of which stands t|],
town of Pamp.itar. iNearly in a line between the two points, and about midway, Iicsiji.
little islet called lilanco, which is very clean ; the passaji;e between it and the land is\en
safe. All parts of this bay alioni am^horage in 7 and t' fathoms water, at two thirds oi
mile from the beach: with the trade wiiul blowiufi fresh it is rather exfiosed, as tlirn .
no shelter; and altlioimh siuli a wind does not send in much sea, it will be advisaMiM
anchor in such a position that, in case ol necessity, there may lie room to run freely i, ;
the Morro Moreno, w liich, if occasion require, may be passed on the east side, at tue
distance of a cable's length. f
From the Morro Moreno, the direction of the coast is S. W. -J W. for a space ni-
miles, to Mos(|uito Point; the land between forminj; a great bay, on the north paiii.:
which stands the town, so called, of La Mar, but more correctly, a cluster of straw Ijuiv
The coast from Moreno I'oint to that of Mos(|uito is so foul, that it would be b;i/:ir:
oils to pet williin two miles of it : the same character may be given to that farther »\t'<;
ward. From Mos(|nito Point to Piuita de Manjjics, or Mangrove Point, the bi;iiii;;
and distance are S. 81! ' W. 101 miles: the coast between is very foul, from a rdch-i/ ,«./,.,
that extends olfaboitt a mile. From Mangles Point the shore turns to the noithwin),
forming a bay between it and Point Pieilras, a distance of .'5| miles : from the latter |iok
it runs farther northward, forming imother bay with Point del I'o/.o, which is disiimi'
miles from thf; ))receding. Point del Pozo lies 10 miles N. W. by W. ^ W. from Pun;
Mangles ; and fram the foriner to Point A-enas, the bearing and (i':<taiice are W. In N,
12 miles. All that part of the coast from Mangles Point to Arenas Point is, liU the
preceding, tout, and should not be approached to less than 12 miles.
THE FRfVYLES. — Nine miles E. N. eastward from Cape la Isla in Margarita, ilea
* Mr. Willinm Waddy, Master of H. M. S.li'Aniiabip, in iiis reninrks on tbis liav snys, "Ina;-
proaching it from tbe northward and westward, thesouiulincs will be reuui.Tr, from .'JO t'litlumisaiiie
distance of 4 leagues to 6 fuihonis. Pass tlit islet of (Jalera at n discretionary distance, niidinha •
ing round Point la Gr.lera, whicli is hii!;h and blufi'. you will see n tine open bay, where you may r.u
at anchor in safety, in from lO to 4 lathoms, with Point la Gaiera bearing about N, E. i E. dista:.;
about 2 miles."
t His Majesty's sloop Bnrbadoes, John Fleming, E«q. commander, anchored here in January, 1815.
He says, " Ships from the eastward having approached Ballena Point to about a mile, should id:e
away to the S. W, sounding in 12 and lU fathoms water until Fort La Cnrranta comes open ; ih'
fort is on a point of land over the sea, about half a mile to the cast south-eastward of Fort St. Carl'-.
■which is situated in the middle of the town. With Fort La Carranta bearing N.W. J N. by conipa?'.
distant one mile, there is good anrhorn"" in 8 fathoms water ; but this is not a safe and advaiitnt'ciii:=
bay for a fleet to rendezvous in, there beinj.' little shelter against any weather, and a great scarcity o:
water and every species of ])rovisions. The lorts command the anchorage."
" In sailing out of Pampatar Bay and bound to the westward, pass to the westward of niniico hh.
on account of a reef lying ofi° itsS. E. side, which makes it dangerous tu borrow near it in that direc-
tion."
group of isb
tlii-y .ire all
about two >
S(>L\ I
" little islet (
llllies. Thi
and .Marj^ai
weather.
('Iiitiini'l (
lands: the
( 'iihiinna, Ol
in ii>iiL;lli, .11
froiii the N.
un tbe nort
across : an i
confined p.ii
anil a vessel
Ciibagiia
long, and 2
about a mile
extends aboi
channels, — i
land. — both
stretcbes ou
Point in Ma
In navigat
' of keeping i
from tbe i\.
cleared : but
bnuigbt to b)
eilgiiig a littl
said tiorth pi
To navigal
Isl.inds, by w
and thence si
na Point, arc
westward, the
these channe
bound to Aril
ciiuse these |
Araya, and tl
To sail to I
ofl' Point Ar.
may be effect
to the soutlix
* His Mnjest
in the South \n
Ciiacopata, bcu
Island about S
t His Miijesl
Maicli, 182.5.
■ mis wiiter (ha
(liii.'Clly for the
arriving abreas
blowing strong
side of Coche I
111 9} fathoms '
point, bearing ;
Morro de Pena
; W, by S. from
to avoid it, hav
its western edg
a His MajesI
j about IJ mile o
point, bearing ]
I Miirgarita, N. J
, n «pace of* ini|r«,
iniiit, lllltiifil i.;i (i,,.
Klin I'liiiii Lh (iiili'.
Hilts ilu:rr Im a \,\t':^
I) iiiMi'l)' a iiiilf. o„
illiiye.
till! (liNtnnof nf 11'
ilxiiit T) iiiilcN iiil,iii.|;
liiiii llii; liiiiik mIiiiji
■ iViini till' liiiiil : t|,i
c«insi(l«'riili|(' cxiiik
h'lN poiiil the cdii.t
rv ell III), iiiiil iii;i\ Ir
i\i W. lor'j; ihii,,,
Itn, to th(! I'linta ir
sliiilldw Wilier wliiiji
tlif isliuid. Iirtwcif,
ilt'.M Iriiin IStiiit AiK
(Mil e(l;;e ol a rtnk\
Ik'iicc rxti'iids iilii,i;i
he iMorro of HoMi.
iwiiid ainl wcsiwiuii,
. side, lit a shoii 1I15.
: Morprio and n Mui
wf wliich stiimis ili,
loilt liiidw;iy, iit'.sili<
t and tin' land in vctt
icr, at two thirds ol;
r expdsfd, as tlicrni
t will he advisaliicit
Din to run iVt'cly lit
the east side, at liie
W. for a Sparc ni-
on the north pmu:
uster of straw lim,,
t would he liiiz;irv
I that farther we.;
I'dint, tli(! bt'iini.:
1, from a rockfi .<//■.,
s to tli(! iioi'thwiii!
roni tlie latter jioi;:
which is distiint '
\.\'. I W. from I'l.ii;;
taiiee are W. hv N
ts Point is, lil^e the
a in Margarita, liea
this linv snys, "Ina;-
tVoni 'M riitlniiiisai':f
diHtance, mid in ha •
V, where ymi may riic
out N. E.'i E. distill.;
here in January, IftlG
jut a mile, should ii:t
ntn comes open ; ih:s
ardof FortSi. Carl'i,
^.VV. J N.byconipa??,
safe and advaiitageuu!
and a great scarcity 01
stwardof niancolsk
jw nearitinthatdirec
BLUM'h AMKRICAJf COAiT PILOT.
4GI
group of i'*l''<«< '"allfil the Fraylcs, or the Kriiirs, of which tin* sonlhernmost i.-i tlu" larppBt :
they are all very clean, except the iiorthernniodt, whiih is siirruuiided hy a nrf, ixleiiding
about two cidiles' lenuih Irom it
i SOliA iSI.K'i'.— About l\i miles N. K. ', K. from the liiruesi ol the Kriiyles. lies the
^ little isli'f culled S(da. which is verv clean: Irom Sohi to the Tesliuos, the distance is "J?
nilifs. The passa)^en between tlie {'estiyos iind .Scdu, .Sola ami the l-'rayU'H, the Frayles
mid Mar'j;arita, arc all so clear, that shijii of all Hi/.e.i may use (hem in any kind of
weiUlier.
('httiini'l iirlirrrn Miiri^drild lUid the Mnin. — In this channel there are two large is-
liiiids: the easternmost one is called Kl Coche, or the ('oa( h ; and that on the west,
' Ciibaijiia, or Cuagiia. Coche Island is low, lyiiiy; W. N. W. and K. .S. K. about U niilod
in leiii.'(h, and '-'.', miles wide. It is surrounded hy a rocky shoal and reef, which extern!
from the N. W. and .S. K. points about a mile and a half, and forms two channels: that
un the north, with the Island of iMar^arita, whii h, in its narrowest part, is two miles
' across: and that on the south, with th(> main land, of nearly similar breadth in its must
j conlined part. Fn both of them the jjassages are perfectly dear, * tlie botioui very good,
and a vessel may ride at anchor in either of them as securely as in a harbor.
Ciibagua is smaller than ('oche Isl.inil, and lies nearly east and west : it is about h miles
loim, and 'J miles wide, l''roin the east point there are 1 sluml and a rrtf, extending out
about a mile : the north and south sides are very clean : but on the » est side, a rarkij ulioul
extends about one third of a mile from the shore. 'I'liis, like ("oche Jsland. form.s two
channels, — one on the north with .M;irnarita, and the other on tlie soiuh with the main
i Imid — l)()(h very clear. In the narrowest pan, which is between the sIkhiI. am! rfi/' which
< sirelches out from the east end ('uba^iui, and the Lank that extends otf fruui Mangieii
• Point in Margarita, the width is .'5^ miles.
; In navigating the North Channel of these islands no other care is necessary than that
' of keeping in the middle of the jiassage ; for, by so doing, the Ixinlxn of Margarita, tluit
from the N. W. of Coche Island, and that from the east end of ("ubagna, will all be
<'haie(l : but for greater certainty, the tiu.st northerly little point of Cubamia may be
l hrotiglit to bear west ; which course may thi'ii he kept on to pass Mangles Point, and then
< edging a little to the northward, so as to pass a cable's length to the northward of the
said north point of Cubagua, every danger will he avoided.
To navigate the Sonli Channel, \ you ought to pass near to the Carihes and Lohos
Islands, by which yon will clear the bank that extends to the 8. E. from Coche Island,
and thence shape a westerly course without fear, as the three Tuna Islets, lying off Tu-
na Poiiit, are very clean, and may be passed between, if necessary. PVorii these islets
westward, the channel widens considerably, and consc(|uenily re(|uires less care. In all
tlu'se channels it is advisable to anchor at night, in any part of them, when the ship is
bound to Araya or Cumana, lest the current should carry her to leeward; and also be-
cause these port!) should always bo entered in the day time, that the shoal oH' Point
Araya, and the shallow batik of Cumana, may be avoided.
To sail to the ANCI1()KA(jK of A KAY' A, the only danger to be avoided is the shoal
off Point Araya, which, as before observed, extends ',',', miles to the iN. W. of it: this
may be elfected by standing on about ,'J miles from the point iiefore the course is altered
to the southward; or, what is nearly the same thing, to make no southing until having
* His Majesty's sloop Sapphire, A. Mont;;onierie, Esq. Commander, when beating to windward
in the .Simlh passajre, on the 2i)ili of April, 18:21, struck on a xhoal of 15 feet water; the Morroof
Chacopata, bearing about E. S. E. i E. by compass, distant 2 2-3 miles, and the west end of Caribes
Island about S. } E. 2 miles.
t His Majesty's .sloop nellette, .T. Leith Esq. Commander, ran tlirnii^di this cliannel on the 7th of
Maicli, 182.'). He passed three quarters of a mile to flic norihward of Point Chacopata, in TJ futli.
oiiis water (having gradually shoaled fnnn the depth of 19 fathuina to the eastward), and steered
diiePtiy for tlie Island Lobos, in which track he had not less than 44, nor more than 5 fathoms, until
arriviiit,' abreast of the suid island. After passing it, the water began to deepen fast, hut the wind
blowing strong from the east, with an a|)iiearunce of foul weather, he hauled towards the S. W.
side of Coche Island, where the shoal extends only a short distance off, shortened sail and anchored
in 9J fathoms water, on mud, about ,3 miles offshore ; " with (he west end of C(jclie, a low sandy
point, bearing N. W. by N. by compass ; the S. E. end S. i E., Lobos Island S. E. hy E. } E. and
Morro do Pena S. W. j W. On the 8lh, at G, 30 A. M. he weighed ; and after running 22 miles
W. by S. from the anchorage, saw w bite cidored water on Araya shoal ahead ; hauled up to N. W
to avoid it, having found that a W. by S. course would not clear it ; at 11 A. M. passed close round
its western edge, and gradually hauled in for Point Piedras, &,c.
» His Majesty's ship Valorous, Capt. J. Murray, anchored off the west end of Coche Island, at
t about 1 J mile off shore, in 7 fathoms, muddy bottom ; w ith the N.W. end of the island, a low sandy
[ point, bearing N. E. by N. its S. W. point east ; Cubagua Islaiid Sv. | N. and Point Mangles in
Murgarila, N. N. VV. \ W. this anchorage is very good.
4C2
BT.U.NT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
pot nut of soiindiiiiis. l?nt if it sliould he tlrjiiulit prclrrnbli^ to use landmniks, lio v;\fp.
fill not to cross tlic parallel of ol' I'oiiit Escarcfo, uni' the west<'riiuiost |)cak of I'oui, (jn
the height of M;t(;iii;io, in iMar';:irita, bisiis norlli, a lit lie easterly ; for wIkmi it li(!ars .\,
5° E. it will clear the west cxlrcitiity ol liic shoal alKnit liail' a iiiili'. Tiic Isiaiid <i| ( n.
basiia will also aObrd a mark; fur, liy l)rii)i;iiijj; tlic west jjoiiit ol' it to hear N. K.. ih,;
weslern ed<;e of the shoal will he ciearcd two iniios.* Hence it ai)|)cars, thiit a shn,
bound to Araya, and iiavinsi run down the Soiiili Channel between ("oche and ( 'iiliii^u.i
on tlie north, and the main land on the south, siiutild |)a>s about a mile to the north\v;i|,|
of I'oint Kscaiceo, and S(eer west uniil the west point ol Ciibayua bears N. i!., wIkh,
by altering the course to the southv^ard, she will pass two miles distant from the wi^i
edge of the shoal ; and if it be desirous to keep closer t(» it, to a\oid eettiiii!; so imiiii !„
leeward, it »uay be doiu- by steerin"' west, tintil the westernmost |)eak of INIaeanao hc;ii<
N. 5'^ K., or rather UKue easterly; then brinj; her head to the southward, and she \\|||
pass Ht the distance of one mile from it. J\ee|) on the south course, until she j:ets alnciM
of the southermnost house on Point Araya. then haul to the wind, in order to fetcji inio
the little J?ay of Arava, which will be known by the J'"(Ht on 'ho south side, and the S;iiii.
luary cl Our Ladv of A;;ua Saiua on the north side, ami on the south slo|)e of (in,:.
ranche. In this bay, and also on every part ol'tliis coast, as far as Point Arenas, a slii
may be ancihored in any convenient liepili, and, if liesirable, at a cable's lein;ih from i|,h
shore.
iit like manner, in doubhns: Point Araya from the northward, that is, from f'uli;ii;r,;i
or Maroarita. the parallel of Point Escarceo should n(.t be crossed to the eastward (il'ihe
bearings before jiiven ; and if by any accident you happen to <lo so. you should iniiiiiii,.
ately steer in an opposite direction, until vou aic due west iVdui Point Kscarceo; m,]
then west, until the proper bcarioiis come on — nauudy. tiie westernmost peak of .Miici.
nao N. 5^ K., or rather iiuire easterly ; when you should steer south, so as to be aMc -n
haul io the wind on f;cttinsj abreast of the southernmost hoitse on Poiiu Araya. tiii
coiuufs; from the north, the siuuidins^s will also be a ;.;ood cuide, either by keepini; (iiii (•
tbem alto2;eihcr, or, at I -i-l, by t;ot ;;etting into less than .J.'j fathoms, uiuil after trof^sih;
(iie parallel belore mentioiu'd.
There are a sltallow bank ami reef stretchina; about half a mile south from I'oint Are-
lias, which have been already spoken of as the North Point of the (Uilf Cariacou, whjdi
runs 3o miles inland to the eastward : at the broadest part it is 8 miles across, and n:;iv
be considereil a.s a spacitnis, well-sheltered harijor, there beiiii; good anchora!:e in CMti
part of it; but the best is in 150 fathojns. 'J'lie shores are very ch^iii. and may be ap-
proached lo half a mile, or even a less distance, except in the vicinity of Cumana. uline
a shallow bank extends aiiout two thirds of a mile from the shore. On the no: .i fiV
th^rt! are two harbors, called the Little and the (ireat- or Bishop's Lagoon ; the loiiint
is ' .-v sii' ,11, but the latter is spacious: and, besides having from H lo IH fat hems «;;iir.
is s(. ci' :'.n that there is no danger except wliat is visible. Its entrance is I'J miles Imii,
Point Arenas. Within ;hi' (iiilf there is no town of eonseipiciiee, or other iiidntPiiKi.i
for ship>' 'Voni Europe to visit it ; the main object ot attraction for all is ("umana. whkh
is situated on the Son i Point f<( tlie entrance into thetiiilf. Tins iioint is lew nu!
sandy, with a bank rutuiioi: I'lom it to the v, est and so nth. so steep that, from 10 fail.iiii<,
there are almost immediately o ; and from .'>, a shi]) would be aground before gettiin; m;-
other cast ol" the lead. 'J'he ed;:e of the bank running eastward, lies nearly east linii
tlie jioint, about 4 miles, to Punta Haxa, or Low Point, whence it turns to siuuli-c;''!-
war(i with tiie coast, narrowing by degrees to the vicinity of Mouiu iUanco, where itii:-
Hiinates on a i hsiii shoie.
The edge of the bank that runs southward from tlie jioint is very close to the sliniv,
forming with it the mouth of the River Man/anares. or (.'umana. whetue it increasiMi
breadth to the S. W. so much that, i\. M'. of the Escarpimo Jxoxo, a little nioniit. wi;ii
*Hi8 Mnjesly'.i sluoii K^k, L'.dward I.loyil, Esq. Conuiinnder, ran auioiind on this slmal. on ;l.e
20tli of August, 18:21, having at the time .Araya Point bearing S. 1']. by E. by conipnRS. disinni liniiiis
by estimation, yuhjuiiied is an extract Irom the Log Rook, whence we have oblaiiird tin iii-
formation : —
"P. M. Fresh brrn/es and tine, luniiing idomr ilie land In I ween INTnrfiariin and the main. Ai
4h. I'oini Arnsa snmli G or 7 nnies: ai lb. l.un. irinnned sail and hauled more to ilir wimi: nl-lh,
25ni. ibe ship under a press of sail, niiiniiifr at the raie ol 10 kiiols, 8. S, W. bv compa!'.'', lu;;,'
about () miles from Point Araya, and (by the leiulsmnn in biiili cjiains) in 9 liilhoms wiiter, suililm v
shnalcd, and imniediulely afterwards struck the trnuiul. Shortened and furled sails ; hoisted niiiii.e
boat.«, and sounded in every direction naind the ship ; laid the stream anchor out N. W. ill 3 null-
cms; at (ih. parted the stream cable, of which 'JO bithonis were lost: Point Arava then braniij
S. K. by E."
It farther appears that the sea broke very high within a quarter <jf a mile of her; and that tlie
Nouiidinga ull round were very iiregulur. Oa the !23d, alter being lightened, she got utf.
Mr'
a red elift".
narrows at.
The T(
hanks ol' t
stands an
in front ol
thcr fort.
Escarpado
eil. iliivi
the river.
on !.'elting
which, am
scant wind
to work to
tack hel'ore
('nin ma, b
the bank o
be prolong
To the ;■
till- Kiver
nearly we:
hcacli, to I
length widt
nearer to tl
be av.)i(leii
Kroii 1
i of ll mile t
I sunken roc
I westward ol
? l'"roni Po
'l distance
; I'l failioins
I of the bay i
I are a /J'?" roi
less, it (uiq;I
About VV
and forms tl
well shelter
many nalnr
tlioms, or b
the shores,
Itngtli from
ties may be
the best har
world.
i -^ ~
»His Maj(
oiiblcs' leiiiitl
the eiitranee
I loiiio oil the I
■; Pels to anelim
I f\u\l'(irl o:i ll
'' fiiither oil" sli
ii) fithoiiis, 0
on the beach
oil" shore nnt
W. 'I'hn ris
river to tlu^ u
+ His Maji
IB'.'l. Caiit.
tlii'i- the two I
entered with
01,'re.ss ; thoui
ter may be ol;
(ieserves (hat
nbove its mm
a good waieri
laiidmniks, 1k« curp.
idst |)(mIv (iC I'oui, (III
for wlini it l(;';irs N
Tln> Island oICi,.
t to lii'ur N. K., ihi,.
ippc'Mis, tli;it a sli!|,
['iic'lie and ( 'nli;iL;ii,i
lile to \hv. noiliiH;ii(|
hears N. K., ulun,
isiaiit iVoin till' wisi
il !.'elliti<; so iiiiicli !„
ik of IMacanao l»(';n\
lliward, and slic «ill
luitil slu' i:('ts aliici-i
II order to letch iiiji
I side, and the Simc.
south slo))e oi' (Jui-
I'oiiit Arenas, a sin;)
)le's len!;lh I'roin i|,h
at is, iVoin rtilKiiiiii
0 the eastward oi liie
yoti slionid iimmil,.
Niinl Kscareeii; ;ii],i
most ])eak oC M;\r,\-
h, so as to he ahli' lo
II Point Arava. Uii
ler l>y keepine oiii t:
s, until aliei- crussin.'
iitli I'roin Point Aif-
Inir (..'ariaeou, wind;
lies aeross, and n\\\
1 anehoraue in pvmv
111. and may he iip-
V ot'Cnniaiia. ulmt
On tlie no: .1 .-: •■
afjoon ; tlie toiinct
0 is ratlicnis «;iiir.
c is \-2 miles Irim,
r otlier indnepiiici,!
is Ciimaiia. uliiii:
i!S |ioint IS Idw ;ii.(!
1. fKiiii 10 I'adidiiN
d hefore .<,'etlii;^ in,-
ies nearly east lien
urns to soiitli-i';"!-
laiKo, where iltn-
elose to tlie ^lnu'',
leiice il ineri';ist's 11
a little nKiiinl. «::ii
1 on ll'.is sliDiil. oil :i.e
onipiiFS. dis:niii linii.is
have obtained tlwiii-
itn niid tlie ninin. A!
ire to the «iiul : atlh.
V. 1)\- coiii| 11?.=, in:!;,'
ilionis Wilier, siulilciy
d suits; lioisu'd mitii.e
T out N. \V. in 3 iii;li-
It Arayn then lican::g
of her; and ilmi ilie
shs got off.
».r.,»
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PTLOT.
463
a red cliff, south of the town, il readies ithout ;i mile from the .shore: from thi.s point it
iKirrows au;ain. and teriiiitiales at i'oint I'^iedras.
The TOWN and FOKL' of ("CM ANA, stand on the hii;li land of the point, on the
hanks of the Maii/.aiiares, or Ciimana Kiver: on the low land, and near to the he.irh,
stands an Indian town, separated from ('umair.i hy the river. The anehorasje is nearly
III Iront of, or to the westward of. the river's nn)ntli, on the south jjoint of whieh is ano-
ther t'ort. In order to feleli this anchorage, ships slioiild steer from Point Caney towards
Hscarpado Roxo, hut not more to windward, until the hank off I'nntade Ar»'nas is clear-
ed. Having passed it, they should ke-p to the wind, and steer direet I'or the month of
the river, whieh will he known l»y the fori ;ilready spoken of. Keep the lead {joins:; and
on irPttin^ a depth of water suitalile for the size of the vessel, let go nil anchor, with
whieh, and a stream amdior towards tin; slim-f, the ship will he moored.* If, from a
scant wind, or from the current haviiii; set the vessel to leeward, it should he necessary
to work to windward to <;aiii the aiicliora>;i', when standins; to the southward she should
tack hefore port .St. .\nioifio, whieh is situated on the most elevated part of the town of
('iiitnna, hears to the northward of east, in order to keep clear of the projeetiiia; point of
tlie bank olV Kscarjiado Koxo ; to the nortliwanl there is no danger, and the board may
be prolonged aeeonlim: lo jiidanient.
'I'll the S. W. of the P-searpado lloxo, and a little to the eastward of Piinta de Piedrns,
the Kiver Mordones disembogues its waters; and from this latter point the coast lies
nearly west for the distance <d" .'5.' miles, in some points scarped, ;ind in others a sandy
beach, to Port Kscondido. wiiieh is a hay running about half a mile inland, and 3 cables'
leiiiTth wide at the entrance. In the middle of it the depth i.^ -1 ^ fithoms, on sand, but
nearer to the shore, only .'i and "J. Off the West Point there are some rocks, which may
bcavoideil bv passim; at a little more than a cable's length from it.
Froii ,e West Point of Port Kscondido, the coast trends about west for the distance
of 11 mile to Piiiila de Campanarito, all of wliiidi is scarped, and very clean, except one
sunken ro(d<, about half a eal)le's leuirtli from the coast, and 'J or ."J cables' length to the
westward of the West Point of Port Kscondido.
From Point fJainpanarito to the .Morro and Vigia, or Signal Tower of Mochiiria, the
distance is ',' of a mile: between tliein is a very fine hay, varying in depth of water, from
I'l filhoms to .')',, which will he found within a cable's lengtli of the shore. Every part
of tiie bay is clean; and only off the north and west sides of [*oint Campanarito there
are n f'e>r rorks, extending somewhat less than half a cable's length from it, but neverthe-
less, it ou2;ht not to he passed nearer than one.
About W. .*>. W. from the signal tower of .^^ochima, a little longne of land projects,
mid forms the cast point idtlie Harbor of .^^ocllima, wliicdi is capacious, heantifiil and
well sheltered. The shores are indented with several coves, or little bays, which are so
many natural docks, "^rhe depth of w;ifer is very regular, no where exceeding 14 fa-
tlioms, or being less than 4'r; the latter from one to one cable and ;i half's lesigth from
the shores, which are generally very clean. 15y keeping at the distance of li cable's
length from every visible f)bstruction, all danirer will Ije avoided. To these good quali-
ties luay he added that of sailing in and out with the trade wiiid,f altogether making it
the best harbor in this pari of America ; indeed it may he reckoned one of the best in the
Horld.
* His Majesty's ship Valorous, Ciipt. .1, Murray, r.ucliored here, in F(>h. ll*21, <;' iiliout 2^ or 3
oaiijis' leiiKiii from the .shore. In II fiithoiiis water, on mud and c'ay ; with the low sandy point at
till' entrance of the river, bearing N. } H. by eoinpass, distant 3 cables' leiiirlli ; and Fort San An-
tonio on tlic hill above the town. east. The hank shelves off very suddenly, whieh occasions ves-
sels to anchor near the heaeli, in 11, 8, and tl I'aihoms, on srood croiind. To the northward, and oft"
llii\/i(i7 0:1 the lieacli, it shelves oil" (|iiicker still ; but to the southward, the shoal water extends
fiiiiherolV shore. The llellettn sloop, .1. Smith, Fs(|. comiuauder, in March, ISG."), anchored in
~J fitiioiiis, o!i mud, with the rattle on the hill ami rliiirr/i in one. E. i N, by coinpass: the Fort
on the lieach N. N. E. i F. and the Red t'liif (llsearpado Koxo) S. i K. Tiiis is about } of a milo
oil' shore and is ipiile an outside berth ; it is iieeessury to steady the ship with a stream to the S.
W, The rise and fall of the tide is from t lo .') feet. (Jood water may be obtained in the little
nvpr to the nordiward of the fort on the beach. The wind always blows olf the shore.
t His Majesity's sloop Sapphire, A. !\lonlixo!iierie, F.ri|., C(Mmnan(l(>r, vififed this harbor in April,
18'21. Capl. M. observes, that ihousrh the an(diora:re is good throiiirliOiit, the most secure is in ei-
llipr t!ie two first ea<<lern biuhis, inoorini; with n cniile or hawser to tne shore. The harbor may bo
entered with tin- trade wind ; and as there is trenerally a land-breeze duriiurtlie niirht. il is easy of
cgrcHs ; thouirh from the lirst eastern biirhi, a ship may sail out at any time with the sea-breeze. Wa-
tprniay be obtained at the south end of the harbor Innn the RiveT iVIoehima, thouph it by no means
deserves (lint appellation, beinu- only a small stream at any time; and though, if cleared a lildo
aliove its mouth, enoiifrli might be had for any minihor of ships, yet it can at no time be accounted
a good watering place.
464
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
m Hi
it I
About a mile to the westward is tlie Ilnrborof Marian-, wliich is also an excellent port.
The depth of water is from 14 to 4| fathoms, tiie latter at half a cable's length Irom
shore. It is very clean, and as the entrance is spacious, it may be entered with the
trade wiud at any time, and quitted with e(|ual facility. The west point of the harbor
is called Point Manure.
From Point Manure the coast runs about W. .S. W. for the distance of U mile, f,,
Puntade Tigrillo, which sends out u reef on every side, to the distance of half a cable*
length from it. The coast thence trends to the southward and eastward a distance ofj!
miles, whence it returns to W. by S. for 5 miles, to Punta (xorda, forming what is cnllpi]
Tigrillo Bay. at the farther extremity of which there is a canal communicating with the
Harbor of xSlochima. In the entrance of this bay there are three islands: the fnsi or
easternmost one is named Venados; the second or middle one the East Caraca ; and
the third the West Caraca. The shores of the bay, as well as those of the isliimls,
are very clean, there being only off the north point of Venados, called Point Campaiiiirn
a rock which extends about a cable's length from it ; and from the S. W. part ol'iiif
same island, a small shallow bank running o(!" a similar distance. All the passages nj
straits between these islands, and also between them and the main land, are free atii
navigable for shi|)s of any class ; and although some of them are narrow, there is suitl-
cient room for anchoring, in case of necessity.
The only danger to be avoided is a rocky shoal, called the Caracas, which lies aboii;
N. W. at the distance of rather more than a mile from the East Caraca. It is about
half a mile in extent from east to west. There is not, however, much risk; for in pass.
ing between it and the Caracas, it will be avoided by keeping near to the latter, and n
going outside of it, keeping to the northward of Point Manare will clear it in thatdi-
rection.
To the southward of Piuita Gorda, distant .1 miles, lies Punta del Escarpado Roxn
(Red Slope Point.) These form the entrance of the (!ulf of Santa Fe, which riiti
about 6 miles inland to the eastward. All its shores are very clean ; but at the entrance
at about one third of a mile from the north coast, lies a foul rock, that should notbenp
proached witliin two cables' length. The depth of water in this gulf is from 27 to 1-
fathoms, on mud bottom.
From the Point of Escarpado Koxo the coast inclines to the southward, and theme
the westward, for 2\ miles, to Punta de la Cru/.. forming a bay that is very clean, and af-
fords excellent anchorage, called the Hay of Santa Cru/. About VV. S. W., one mile
from the latter point, lies the easternmost of the little islands called the Arapos, extend-
ing altogether to the westward about half a mile. They are very clean, except in tlip
strait between them, which is impassable on account of a bank and reef that unites tlieni
together. The passage between the easternmost one and the coast is open, and witlinm
danger. Off the western part of the westernmost island there are two rocks, but ihev
are very clean.
From Punta de Cru/. the coast continues westward, inclining a little to the south-
ward, nearly 4 miles to Punta Comona — the whole of it clean, and navigable within t«)
cables' length of the shore, without the least risk. Westward from Punta Conionn. :i!
most 2 miles, is Punta de Pertigalele, in which space there is a fine bay, with 12 fatlmn:-
water within a cable's length of the shore. In the farther part of this bay there isasaink
beach wliere two small rivers discharge their waters, ll is all very riean, except on tl.f
eastern part, which sends o(f a reef ai)out a cable's length from the shore.
MONOS ISLAND. — In front of this bay, and about;} cables' length to the north-
ward of Pertigalete Point, lies the south coast of the Island Monos, or (Juaracaro, tin
shores of which are steep and clean. About 2 cables' length from the north side there
is a rock and a foul reef, which should not be a|)|)roached nearer than half a cable's Icnytli;
the channel between Monos and the rock is very clean, witir25 fathoms water; and in
sailing through !. will be best to keep closer to the island than to the rock. The chin
nel between Monos and the coast is also very clean, with 4.') to 50 fathoms water in ilif
middle of it, arid nearly the same depth near to the island, which should be kept close on
board, if any thing prevents running througli mid-channel.
One mile and a half to the westward of Pertigalete Point is Point Cuanta, and iietween
titem is formed the Bay of Pertigalete, within which there are several islets, and a liiilf
river disembogues into it. in case of anchoring here, it will be necessary to keep cli'ar
of the west side of Pertigalete Point, passing it at a cable's length at least, to avoids
reef which runs out from that part. It is also necessary to be c;« '.il to avoid a reef ami
shoal from the centre of the bay ; which will be cleared by not gi, ting any thing totliei
westward of the most easterly part of the first islet to the north. With this attention a |
ship may be anchored nearly north from the mouth of the littlo river, in 4^ fathoms wa-
ter, at about Ij cable's length from the beach on the east side. ;
To the V
between th
of which 11
J very clean
'^ a cable's le
bles' lengtl
cultv will b
'J'lIE P
length, and
there is an
point, from
which has i
This Morr(
to the main
length.
The dist:
and the coa
this tract o(
mile into tli
steer directl
clean, and ii
go uito the 1
( water, sand
I The west
I nearer than
^ southward c
to the eastw
forms a larg
stands the C
for being ve
On the CO
1 several othe
; da lies to thi
i than a mile
1 length to th(
N. E. and is
ward of its e
bles' length
miles, lies tl
extent, and '
C'himana, an
west, is the f
length, and ;
about one ca
tie islet aboi
point of the
of a very irr
miles. To t
2 to the Great
I northward of
I tween the twi
I extremity of
(treat Chimai
^ measures 2 n
Chimana, abi
mud; and th
mile wide, an
length from I
the South CI
From a rec
that these isl:
on the east o
the West Ch
and their islet
80 eligible for
gator; iu oth<
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
4G5
Iso an excellent port,
cable's length from
)e entered with the
point of the harbor
stance of 11 milp, to
ince of halfa cabled
ward a distance o( .'l
ji-ming what is rnllei'i
niunicatini^ with tlie
islands : the first nr
le East Caraca ; and
hose of the isl;iiiil<
d Point Campaiiiim,
le S. W. part uUy
All the passages nr
lin land, are free ani
larrow, there is suill-
cas, which lies abou;
Caraca. It is about
cVi risk ; for in pii>s.
r to the latter, and in
ill clear it in that di-
lei Escarpado Roxn
inta Fe, which nir,^
; but at the entrance
bat should not he ap-
gulf is from 127 to 1-
irthward, and thpiii-
is very dean, and i;-
VV. S. W., one mile
the Arapos, extpnii-
clean, except in I
reef that unites them
s open, and wiiliniii
two rocks, but the;
a little to the south-
navigable within t»)
Punta Coniona, a!-
bay, with 12 fatlimi'
is bay there isasanJy
clean, except on the
diore.
length to the north-
is, or (inarararo, the
the north side there
half a cable's length:
lionis water: and in
rock. The fh;in-
athoins water inllie
ouldbe kept close OD
Huanta, and lietnoen
ral islets, and a liulf
cessary to keep cifar
1 at least, to avoids
il to avoid a reel' ami
ling any thing to the
VVith this attention a
,'r, in 41 fathoms wa-
To the westward of Punta de Guanta, and three miles i; >iant, is Punta do Bergantin :
between the two, and about a mile from the first, is the littl bay of Guanla, in the mouth
of which lie several islets and rocks, with very narrow chiiinels between them, though
very clean and navigable. Within the bay there arc from 1-') to ') tathoms water, at half
a cable's length from the shore : at the west front of the bay a reef runs ofl' about -2 ca-
bles' length ; but, by keeping over to the eastern side, which is very clean, every ditfi-
cultynill be avoided.
THE PUi\TA DEL BERGANTIN has a foul reef, which runs ofl' about a cable's
length, and extends about a mile to the southward. Ou the S. W. side of the Point
there is an islet, so very foul all round as not to leave u clear passage between it and the
point, from which the coast continues west, forming Bergantin Bay, the southern side of
which has a foul reef that borders the coast westward as far as the Alorro of Barcelona.
This Morro is high land, lying nearly north and south one mile in extent : and joined
to the main land by a very narrow isthmus, or tongue of sand, rather more than a mile in
length.
Tlie distance between Punta del Bergantin and the Morro of Barcelona, is 4^ miles,
and the coast inclines to the southward, forming a large bay called Pozuelos Bay : all
this tract of shore, which is a sandy beach and very low land, sends olT a shallow bank a
mile into the sea. Therefore, in navigating on this part of tlie coast, it is advisable to
steer directly from Bergantin Point for the north point of the Morro, which is steep and
clean, and may be pcassed within a cable's length; or, should it be thought |)referable to
go mto the bay, the lead umst be kept going, to avoid getting into less than 7i fathoms
water, sandy bottom.
The western side of the Morro of Barcelona is foul, and ought not to be approached
nearer than 'J cables' length: from its north point to Punta Maurica, which is to the
southward of it, the distance is about 4 miles: the coast, a low sandy beach, rounds in
to the eastward ; and in this part the River of Barcelo.ni discharging itself into the sea,
forms a large bank of sandy mud. About li mile inlaii'l, on the left bank of the river,
stands the City of Barcelona. To anchor in the bay, the lead will prove the best guide,
for being very shoal, each ship may take a bertli suitable to its draught of water.
On the coast from Cape Manare, besides the Caraca Islands already noticed, there are
several others, called the Picudas, the Chimanas, and the Bonacha. The Great Picu-
da lies to the westward of the west Caraca, with which it forms a channel rather more
than a mile wide, free from all danger, except a sunken rock that lies about 2 cables'
length to the eastward of the east point of Picuda. This Island lies about S. W. and
N. E. a.id is little more than a mile in length : its shores are very clean: to the north-
ward of its east extremity there are two rocks, — the firat about one and the other .'! ca-
bles' length o(f. About S. W. by W. from the (iieat Picuda, at the distance of 3j
miles, lies the second Picuda, — an islet of a circular figure, about 3 cables' length in
extent, and very clean. About .S. S. E. from it at the ilistaiu e of a mile, is the East
Ciiimana, another islet less than the preceding, and e(|iially clean. Two miles further
west, is the east point of the second Chiniana, whicli lies east and west about 1^ mile in
length, and also very clean; to the eastward of it are two little islets, the nearest being
about one cable's length otf, and the other 5 cables ; and on the west side is another lit-
tle islet about a cable's length distant. About S. W. 2 cables' length from the west
point of the second (^himana, lies the east point of the (jreat Chiniana, which island is
of a very irregular figure, and in its greatest extent, about E. by S. and W. by N. 3i
miles. To the westward of it, about one third of a mile, lies the West Chiniana, joined
to the Great Chiniana by a shoal of rocks and sand, extending a full half mile to the
northward of the north extremity of the (treat Chimana; on this slioal, and midway be-
tween the two Islands, there is an islet, also another at a short distance from the west
extremity of the West (Jhiinana; and, finally, to the southward of the east part of the
Great Chimana lies the South Chimana, that in its greatest extent from N. E. to S. W.
measures 2 miles. This island forms two channels: one on the north with the Great
Chimana, about a cable and a half wide, and very clean, with a depth of "JO fathoms, on
mud; and the other to the south, between the Island and Punta de! Bergantin, half a
mile wide, and very clean : in passing through it the reef, which extends about a cable's
length from Bergantin Point, is the only danger to bo avoided. Between the Great and
the South Chimana, there are several islets, all very clean.
From a recapitula'iou of what has been said of the Picudas and Chimanas, it appears
tliat these islands and their islets are clean and steep to ; the only dangers being the rock
oil the east of the Great Picuda, and the slioal in the channel between the Great and
the West Chimana; consequently all the channels or passages between these islands
aiul their islets are navigable, although some of them from being very narrow, are not
80 eligible for large ships : this circumstance, how ever, is a matter of choice fur the navi-
gator; iu other respects he has uo hidden danger to guard against.
69
466
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
BORRACHA ISLAND, (Drunken Woman's Island,) is about 3 miles to the west-
ward of the West Chimana : it lies nearly north and south, in which direction it is rather
more than 2 miles in length, and 1}; at its greatest breadth. All the east and north sides
of it are clean: but on the N. W. a very foul rocky bank, with very little water uti n,
extends to a considerable distance, having on it several little islets; all of which shoiilil
be passed on the outside, at '.I cables' length distance from the most westerly. From the
south extremity of the island a large sand bank runs off about S. S. W. on which are
situated an islet called Borracha, near the island, two small islets, called the Borrachii(,>.
at the distance of two large miles from tho Borracha. They should always be passed
on the south side, at the distance of 3 cables' length from the southernmost of them.
for between them and the Borracha, as well as between it and the principal island, the
water is very shallow.
From the anchorage of Barcelona the coast trends to the S. W. and westward forilif
space of 32 miles, to the Morro of Unare, which lies about W. S. W. jf W. 34 niilis
from th(i ^^ -ro of Barcelona. It thence inclines to the northward of west, then N, \V,
and lastly north to Cape f'odera, distant from the Morro of Unare .'37 miles N. \V. \,\
W. J W. and from that of Barcelona 85 miles N. 76° W.
The whole of this coast is low land, on which are seen the Morros of Piritu and.]
Unare, distant 7 miles from each other. The wato s shallow along it, but it is veri
clean, and in approaching it the lead will be a suHicitn guide. The two islands of Pi
ritu lie nearly 12 miles to the westward of the anchorage of Barcelona, and about .;'
miles from the shore : they lie nearly E. S. K. and W. N. W. are low like the coast, iimi
have a reef extending a cable and a half's length from them. There is a passage lip-
tween the two islands, but it is hazardous to attempt on account of the reefs on e-iri;
side, which leave a channel of only 2 cables' length wide, with 5) fathoms water. Tlif
passage between the islands and the main land is free for ships of any size; and in goin;
through it there is no necessity for any other guide than the lead.
About due north from the Morro of Roldar, at the N. W. point of Margarita, abnr
40 miles, lies the southeriur.ost of seven islets, called the Hermanos, or Brother;
'vhich southeriunost, at the distance of 2 miles therefrom, is called Pico; and from in
the next, wliicli is the largest and called Orqnilla, the distance is 3 miles : the others!/
to the north and N. N. W. of it: they are all very clean and steep to ; so that there ar-:
no soundings in the passages between them.
BLANCA. — To the westward of the northernmost of the Hermanos, at the distanc
of 7^ miles lies the Island Blanca,* or Blanquilla, about 6 miles in extent from north i
south, and 3 from east to west : it is very flat and sterile, and the coasts are very chi:
except the S. W. point, where there are several ridges of rocks extending about .ira
bles' length from the shore; some parts of the west side, and off the north point, wher
there are some foul rocks extending 2 cables from the shore. On the N. W, [r
there is an anchorage, in from IH fathoms at a mile from the shore, to 6 or 7 at 3 cablf^
length from it; all the bottom being sand. On the west side about half way, at a cov
in the beach, there is a Cazimba, spring, or well, where fresh water may be obtained
TORTUOA. — Westward from Margarita, at the distance of 47 miles, lies the ea;;
end of the Island Tortuga, (Tuitle Island,) which thence extends about 12 miles to lb
westward, and is about !) miles at its greatest breadth. All the east and N. E. sides art
very clear, except at Punta Delgada, the N. E. extremity, where a reef extends off abc,
2 cables' length: the south side is also clean; but at the S. E. part are several isif'
The west point of the island is named Punta dc Arenas, from which to the north poin
called Punta Norte, there are so many banks, that it will be necessary to keep the le^:
going while passing that space. On this side there is, first, Anguila Key, lying about haj
a mile from the shore, the intermediate channel being very foul with reefs ; second, (avi
Herradura, or Horse-shore Key, forming, with the coast, a channel of one mile v idf.
but too dangerous to be attempted by large ships; from the N. E. point of this Kev.
ridge of rocks extends about 2^ cables' length eastward ; thirdly, the Tortnguillos Kf}'
two in number, entirely surrounded by a bank, with little water on it. The anchoras;'
at this island is between the Tortuguillos and its coast: it may be entered from thp '^
W. or from the north, through the chnnnel formed by the Tortuguillos and Herradiin
Key. At the anchorage, and in all the channels, the greatest depth of water is frorn'j
to 7J fathoms, with sandy bottom in the middle. In going in the only care required i-
not to get into a less depth than 6j fathoms.
.?K.
« Mr. AV. Wuddy, Master of His Majesty's Ship L'Aimable, in his remarks says, " This isH'
appears low, with white clifTs. You may sail round it without the least dnngrr, and niayanr'
in the depth of 8 or 9 fathoms in Danipier's Bay, havinp: the S. W. point of the island benrinc •'*
j E. about the distance of a mile : the ground is a white sandy ooze. The current sets rcg'j:i
from E. to West."— March 9, 1796.
Discriplioil
CAPE (
to the norf
at half a ca
west side tli
liav ; to en
to which till
wiieri'ver tii
length from
treniity of tl
to the westH
from the sin
rock close t(
From L'a
west many
pears like a
where there
depth.
From Poi
miles to Poi
the eastern e
a reef, whid
Chusi)a; for
The and)
point of the
River Chusj
length from I
From the
mile to Point
stands the to
clean, and th(
Point Curuai
so to la Pun
about a cable
tween the tw
north of it lie
est extent is;
lal depth on
than 3 ; for w
age of Chus]
Ciiuspa, ther
cleared, by tf
crossing the i
From Poin
miles to the ?
at half a mile
TME POI
on this roast;
coast, with a
the west ; (or
f'Ts; and the
•*i;a. To pre
i • About 3 mi
,| bay of tliat nnr
■f pipes or spouts,
^ and tlie soundi
villaRp, keep th
cocoa-nut tree,
; Thorr is a de
4 ''"' villaern, clos
I breadth open of
W,lson, 1819.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
467
! miles to the west-
lirection it is rather
east and norili sidts
y little water on it.
ill of which shoulil
■esteriy. From the
S. W. on which are
led the Borrachito?.
lid always be passed
tliernniost of thein,
principal island, ilie
ind westward fortbf
;. W. if W. :j4 nii'ts
of west, then N. W,
I 57 miles N. W. bv
ros of Piritu and of
ong it, but it is vert
le two islands of Pi
dona, and about '■>'.
3w like the coast, iino
here is a passage be-
of the reefs on r-ith
Fathoms water. Tbf
ly size ; and in goin;
: of Margarita, aboii'
nianos, or Brother*
Pico ; and from it!
miles : the others i-
I to ; so that there a.'-
nanos, at the distnnc
extent from northi'
;oasts are very cleat
xtending about lira
le north point, wher
On the N. W. lar:
, to 6 or 7 at .T cable>
it half way, at a ccc
r may be obtained.
47 miles, lies the ea-;
about 12 miles to it
t and N. E. sides ar*
reef extends otl'abo;
art are several islf-
h to the north poir.
isary to keep the lea:
Key, lying about haJ
reefs ; second, Cav'
lel of one mile ^ id''
point of this Kev. i
le Tortuguiiios l\>v<.
n it. The anchoras*
entered from th'" -
uillos and Herradun
1 of water is from'i
only care required i;
rks snvf", " This iflsrt
Description of the Coast of Caracas and the Frontier Islands from Cape Codera to Cape
iS<. Roman,
CAPE CODERA, a place well known on this coast, is a very round morro, or hill,
to the north of which about a mile, a tongue of low land projects, and is so clean that
at half a cable's length from it there are 'J fathoms water, on sandy bottom. On the
west side this tongue forms a very fine anchorage, named Puerto Corsarios, or Privateer's
liav ; to enter which it is only necessary to double the west point of the tongue, close
to which there is a farallon, or rock, and anchor so soon as there is shelter from the wind,
wherever the depth of water may be suitable; with an understanding, that at two cables'
length fron) the shore there are 7 fathoms water, on sandy bottom. At the south cx-
trermtv of the bay, the coast, for a space of about IJ cables' length, is a low swampy beach,
to the westward of which it is foul, with a reef stretching about half a cable's length
fioin the shore. Tlie west point of the bay, named Caracoles, has on the north side a
rock close to it, from which a reef extends about a cable's length.
From Cape Codera the high mountains of ('aracas are visible, extending east and
west many leagues. Nearly 14 miles N. J W. from the Cape lies an islet, which ap-
pears like a ship under sail: it is very clean, except about a musket shot to the north,
where there are two sunken rocks, having between them and the islet a chatmel of great
depth.
From Point Caracoles, the coast runs in the direction of W. N. W. a distance of 9.}
miles to Poi"-: Maspa, whence it trends W. by S. "J,', miles, to Point ('huspa, which ia
the eastern ex. temity of an anchorage of the same name. All this space is bordered by
a reef, which extemls one mile northward from Point Maspa and terminates at Point
Chuspa; for this reason it should not be coasted at a less distance than 2 miles.
The anchorage of Chuspa is excellent : from the Point Chuspa, which is the N. E.
point of the bay, the coast runs about S. W. fur a mile and a half, to the mouth of the
River Chuspa, on the cast bank of which stands the town of Chuspa, about 2 cables'
length from the beach.
From the mouth of the river the coast rounds to the westward for tlie distance of 1,1
mile to Point Curuau ; to the southward of which, at about one third of a mile inland,
stands the town of Curuau. From Point Chuspa to that of Curuau all the shore is very
clean, and the only guide retiiiired for entering the anchorage will be the lead ; but from
Point Curuau the rcjast is very foul with a reef extending 2 cables otf, and continuing
so to la Punta del Frayle, (Friar's Point,) with a farallon, or rock of the same name,
about a cable's length from it. This point is nearly 4 miles from Point Curuau; be-
tween the two jjoints there is a projection to the north, called de Sabana ; and to the
north of it lies a bank, the south edge of w hicli is about a mile from the sliore : its great-
est extent is about a tnile from S. E. to N. W.on rocky bottom ; and although the gene-
ral depth on it is from 8 to 4\ fathoms, in some places there are only 3'^, and even less
than 3 ; for which reason it should be c arefnlly avoided. It lies Smiles from the anchor-
age of Chuspa; and as in fetching that place it will be necessary to pass near to Point
Chuspa, there can be hut little risk in a])i)roacliing it; it will, however, be entirely
cleared, by taking care to be to the northward of the parallel of Point (-'huspa, before
crossing the meridian of Curuau.
Kroirt Point del Fiayle the direction of the coast is S. fG- W. for the distance of SQJt
miles <«) the anchorage of La (iiiayra,* on every part of which a ship may be anchored
at half a mile, or even at a mnsket shot's flistance, from the shore.
THE PORT OF LA (JUAVHA, with respect to its commerce, is the principal one
on this coast: it cannot properly be called either a liarbor or a roadstead, but a continued
coast, with a little sinuosity b(>tween Point Carabellera on the east, and Cape Blanco io
the west ; ronsetjuently, it afVords no shelter from winds in the N. E. and N. W. quar-
ters; and the trade wind from the eastward, which constantly prevails, sends in a heavy
sea. To prevent ships from thwarting the sea when the wind subsides, or falls calm,
Inngrr, and may and
)f the island bennnc -^
'ho current sets rcgul»:
• About 3 iiiiles to the enstwnrd of I,n Ciiiayra, in the little villnirc of i\Incuto. .litunted in n smnll
bay of that name, and is an rxeellent place for waierinR. Tiic water is procured from three iron
pipes or spouts, distant about 84 feet from the beach. There is good anebornt'e nil over the bay,
and the soundings are very regular in npproachitur the wnterin? plnec. (In troin"' in towards the
villagp, keep the watering place in a line with the N. W. corner of the chu|)cl, and tlie highest
cocoa-nut tree, over the east angle of the I'ort west of the village.
There is a depth of 20 fathoms at about three quarters of a mile from the shore, with a street of
the village, close by the watering place, open or end on; and the easternriio«t point about a sail's
breadth open of the point to thu westward ol it. lleuiark book of U. M. S. .iuhsbury, Captain Joha
Wilson, 1819.
468
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
they am gcnprnlly moored with a cal)le astorn to the wf stwaid : the bottom is good holij.
ing ground, and at a cal)le"s length from the shore there are nearly .'{ fathoms water. In
this anchorage, it is seldom tliat any other wind thr.n the trade is experienced, whiih,
however, sometimes, for short intervals, does veer to the west ; in which case, the posi-
tion of the ship should be changed, and her head placed to the westward: there are ^p|.
dom any land winds, but there are squalls from the S. K. during the rainy season. Al-
though, from the nature of its locality. La Guayra cannot be considered as a port orim
anchorage, yet, from the nature of the climate, it is both, in which with tVesh, or indent
with hard gales, ships at anchor are not exposed to danger.* Ships from sea bound to
the anchorage of Laguayra, will have a good mark in a very high and steep peak, callfd
the Peak of Cares, situated about 9 iniles inland, and 20 miles to the eastward of the
anchorage. At about 10 miles to the westward of this peak is another called the ppat
of Niguatar ; and thence a range of mountains extending towards Laguayra, ainmiJ
which the Silla de Caracas, (Saddle of Caracas,) and Mount Avila may be very well di.-
tinguished ; the latter being about 2 miles inland, and nearly on the meridian of the an-
chorage. It is advisable to make the land well to windward ; there will then be no dan-
ger in tunning down to the anchorage. Cables are sometimes injured here by some an-
chors lost by tite English in one of their expeditions against this place.
From the anchorage of La Guayra the coast first runs west for the distance of six
miles, and thence west by south twenty and a half miles, to the little harbor of (.Vnz,
and is sufficiently clean to be run down at the distance of a mile. This port is a small
indent in the coast, with an entrance about one and a half cable's length wide, and two
cables in extent inward ; very clean, f"oi 't half a shi|)'s length from the coast, all round.
there are 4^ fathoms water. At its south extremity a little river discharges its water;
and off its eastern point, called Point la Cruz, there is a rock close to it. Were it oi
greater capacity, this anchorage would be excellent, but it is so small as to be eligible
for small vessels only.
From Port la Cruz the coast trends S. P2° W., a distance of 2.3 miles, to the Bayci
Cata. It is all very clean and may be approached with safety to the distance of a milf.
or less. About 2 leagues to the eastward of this bay, and 5 miles inland, will be siea
Monte de la Meseta, (Table Mountain,) and at about the same distance inland, on ths
meridian of Cata, anotlier, called Mount Ocumare. These will serve as marks fortakiii,'
Cata Bay, or the anchorage of Ocumare, which is farther to the westward.
Cata Bay is half a mile wide at the entrance, and about as much in depth. At the
eastern point there is an islet lying almost close to it; and from this point the shore
trends to the south to the extremity of the bay, where a river falls into it, throwing up a
bank, with little water on it, which extends almost a cable's length from the shore,
Every other part of the bay is clean, with a depth of water from 25 to 4^ fathoms, abou:
1| cable's length from tlie beach.
Two thirds of a mile westward from the west point of Cata Bay is the eastern point oi
the Bay of Ocumare, in which there is very good anchorage. An islet lies off the pk
point, in a N. W. direction, forming with it a strait, or channel, of about half a cable'-
length wide, very clean, and with a depth not less than 6 fathoms. In taking the anchor-
age in this bay, pass close to the islet, and steer to the south until shelter is obtainei
from the wind ; then anchor in 6 or G~ fathoms, on sand, at about a cable's lenath.nr;
litt'.a more, southward of the islet. The bay has many banks in it, but the lead is;
good guide. Care must however be taken ; for as the anchorage narrows to the «ou!li-
ward, a large ship may possibly touch the ground, unless attention be paid to luff ami
stop her headway in time. A river falls into this bay to the southward of the islet, hav-
ing on its banks a few fishermen's huts.
Two iniles and a half westward from the islet of Ocumare lies the east y)oint of a bay.
called Cienega de Ocumare, (the Bog or Quagmire of Ocumare,) which is, in fact, m
more than a swampy opening in the land, and which, between shoals of a ree(, \m i
channel of 12 to 4j fathoms water. The west point of this bay is formed by an isolate.
* Captain F. Chnmir says, " La Guayra cannot be called any thing else than a dangerous roac
Btead ; but as tbe trade wind blows rif^ht siong shore, by be'ng prepared, a ship may always cIpi:
the land. The town and fortifications, which nmy be distinguished at a long distance, mark 'sf
anchorage ; the former Iv ariiifr P. by E., in a deptii of 10 fathoms, at 1^ mile from tbe shore, iss'
secure as any other. The Rollers are very heavy, and oftentimes it is dangerous to attempt lana-
ing. The ground is very bad for holding, and in a good strong sea breeze you may expect to brm;
your anchors honio."
Cant. G. G. Lennock, in his remarks on this place, observes that, " although during the hurrica'if
of 1815, at the Leeward Islands, they did not experience any wind here, yet there was a verylifs--
vy swell at the anchorafrc, which drove the vessels from their anchors on shore, and dashed then
to pieces against the rocks."
morro that
coastiiii; ve^
One mile
mo, which
points it is ;
entrance to
is from 25 (
tending off
cable's leng
River Turia
in a .\. W.
From the
This part o
There are vi
sailing by oi
Plan of "the
islands.*
Porto Cal
with inangrc
largest size i
from them,
chorage, in \
in 4.' fathoii
berth is abot
11 or 12 fatl
careened, an
proceeds to
sary, and tak
to complete
Arc, althoug
it may be nei
prejudicial,
the harbor, t
perance, occt
of which are
The coast
Tucacas, or
islets. With
rope should 1
cacas, the no
Cabello : the
until they are
the point, in
Point Tuci
jects out froiT
mile in lengt
there is a clia
it, it is dange
N. E. side of
approached at
of the most nc
foul, with a n
* h appears 1
good and spncii
miles to windvv!
water. You ni
the best passage
order to take a h
The Valorou:
Long Island be
east, and the f'oi
good place to g^
leeward.
It is necessai
v^estcndofLoDi
blunt's americax coast pilot.
4G9
ttom is good hnh\.
athoms water. In
tperienced, which,
ich case, the pnsi-
ard : there are nf |.
rainy season. Al-
!red as a port or ;iii
ith fresh, nr inderd
from sea bound u,
1 steep peak, cnileil
he eastward of the
ler called the Peak
Lajruayra, ainniij
ay be very well (h,.
meridian of thf an-
vill then be no diii-
id here by some ai,-
e.
the distance of sis
ttle harbor of Cruz,
This port is a small
jngth wide, and two
the coast, all round.
ischarges its water;
; to it. Were it oi
lall as to be eligiLIc
miles, to the Bay oi
B distance of a mile,
inland, will be am
stance inland, onife
e as marks fortakliu
■stward.
;h in depth. At the
his point the shore
ito it, throwing up a
nrth from the shore,
to 4^ fathoms, abot:
the eastern point ol
slet lies olV the eis;
about half a cable's
n taking the anchor-
shelter is obtniiieii
cable's lenath.nr-
it, but the lead is-:
arrows to the foulli'
be ))aid to luff aiii
vard of the islet, hat-
east point of a bay
which is, in fact, iic
oals of a reef, ha* 2
brraed by an isoiateo
than a danfrerous rosil
ship may always cte
)ng distance, mark'r.^j
le from the shore,
gerous to aticiupt In^l
■ou may expect to br. '
gh during the hurrica-
n there was n veryli'S'
hore, and dashed thti
ninrro that rises on the low land. The anchorage is very bad, and fit only for small
co.istini; vessels.
One mile and a half to the westward of the Morro of Cienega is the Harbor of Turia-
mi), which is excellent, and capal)le of receiving every class of .ships. At the exterior
points it is abo\it a mile broad, but decrt^ases inwards to two thirds of a mile. From the
entrance to its sonth extremity is alxiut two miles, and thei^'cneral depth in mid-channel
is from 'J.'i to 18 fathoms, on mud and s:ind. All its shores are bordered by a reef, ex-
tendi"? oir about one third of a cable : therefore, by not ajiproaching nearer than half a
cable's length, all danger will be avoided. At the farther cxfn inity of the harbor the
River Tnriaino discharges itself on a sandy beach. Olf the east point, at a cable's length
in a N. W. direction, lies Turiamo Islet.
From the Harbor of Turiamo westward, at the distance of 9 miles, is I'orto Cabello.
This part of the shore is very clean, and may be coasted at the distance of a mile.
There are various detached islands lying olVit to the eastward of Porto Cabello ; and for
sailinc by or between them, sufficient information will be obtained by inspecting the
Plan of the Port, published at the Hydrographical Office, which includes all these
islands.* •
Porto Cabello is a channel formed by several islets and tongues of low land, covered
with mangroves. Ships desirous of entering must lie waiped into it; and those of the-
largest size may be made fast to the mole, not re(|niring even the use of a plank to land
from them. The mouth of this channel opens into a spacious bay, with excellent an-
chorage, in 10 to 12 fathoms, sandy mud, and well slielteied from (he trade wind. ]5eing
in 4,'j fathoms will be near enough to the beach, which is rocky and foul. The best
berth is about west from the harbor's mouth, at the distance of ;5 or 4 cables' length, in
11 or 12 fathoms. In this harlior all Spanish merchant ships that go to La (iuayra are
careened, and winter. Each ship, so soon as she has delivered her cargo at La (»uayra,
proceeds to Porto Cabello for greater security, to receive such repairs as may be neces-
sary, and lake in jiart of the homeward bound cargo. She then returns to La (niayra
to complete her lading. At Porto Cabello there is always a body of good shipwrights,
Arc, although it is not very numerous. Ships of war should only enter the harbor when
it may be necessary to careen them : for other ])urposes it is not only useless, but it is
prejudicial. They should therefore always remain in the bay; for the excessive heat in
the harbor, the mangroves with which it is surrounded, added to any degree of intem-
perance, occasion almost immediate attacks of putrid fevers and the black vomit, both
of which are very fatal to Europeans.
The coast to leeward, or to the westwanl of Porto Cabello, forms a great bay, called
Tucacas, or the Gulf of Triste, (Doleful or Dreary Gulf,) in which there are several
islets. With the trade wind it is a lee shore, and rather dangerous. Shijis from Eu-
rope should keep clear of it. as there can be no inducement to take them in. Point Tu-
cacas, the north point of this gulf, bears N. 2.S° W., 2.5 miles from the mouth of Porto
Cabello : therefore vessels bound westward from that port shouhl stpcr about N. by W.
until they are abreast of Point Tucacas, or N. N. W. if they intend to keep close in with
the point, in order to take the anchorage at it, c;,11ed Chichiriviclie.
Point Tucacas is formed by a !ow swampy lan-i, covered with mancroves, which pro-
jects out from the high land about a mile, f )n the east side of it there is a key, about a
mile in length from S. E. to N. W., called Sombrero, between which and the coast
there is a channel barely half a mile wide ; and although there are 11 fathoms water in
it, it is dangerous from shi-als, and the reefs extending from the coast. A key on the
N. E. side of it is also surrounded by a reef of two cables' breadth, which should not be
approached at less than a mile distant. From Point Tucacas. which is to the westward
of the most northerly part of Sombrero Key, the coast runs about N. W. It is low and
foul, with a reef half a mile broad, which extends so far as the mouth of the harbor of
* It appears by the remarks of Captain James Murray, of H. M. ship V'alorous, that there is a very
good and spacious anchoratre between Isia Lnrira. or Long Island, and the main, and about 3 j
miles to windward of Porto Cabello. There is plenty of room for a large Heel, in 10 or 12 fathoms
water. You may sail into, or out from, this anchorage, through between any of the islands ; hut
the best passage is considered to he round the east end of Long Island, between it and the main, in
order to take a. berth well to windward.
The Valorous anchored here on February 27, 182.1, in eleven fathoms, with the S. \V. end of
Long Island bearing N. N. W. by eom[)nsH, distant two cables' length ; the east end of the island
east, and the fort on the hill above Porto Cabello W, S. W., distant 3 or 4 miles. This is a very
good place to get wood ; and fresh water may be procured from the river on the mam a little to
leeward.
It is necessary to be cautious of u shoal that lies about a cable's length to the southward of tho
west end of Long Island.
470
BLUm's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Cliichiriviclie, disiiuit ;j miles iVoiii the point. Tliis harijor is formed by low lands frv.
vered witli luaiuiiovfs, and altliounh well shi-ltfied from nil winds, with 6i fathoms,
uood lioldiiijt: };roiind, tlic cuiraiut; to it is a little dillicult on arcount of shoals and reels,
The east point, railed ( 'liitliinviche, prescnls a front of rather more than a mile in
len'jlh, Irom wliich a reel' runs oil' aljoul three ealdes' lenulh, iiaving on it several islits
tliat must he passed on the outside. To the north of these tliere is a key, called i'er;i/,;i,
with a foul reef all around it, halfa(;ai»le hroad. 'J'his key, and the islands off the point,
I'orm a channel two eahles' lenmlh wide, with upwards of 7 fathoms water. To the \\v>,\.
ward of I'era/a Kt'v lies another, called rhirhiriviehe Key, lari;er than the former, ainl
*dso surrounded iiv a reel of a caldc's ienijlh hroad. J?etween these two there is a < Inm.
nel rather mure ihaii two ealiles' length wide, with 0 and 7 fathoms water in it. 'i'o tli,;
west of (Jhiehiriviehe Key lies the west point of the harhor, fonuiuf; between them a
channel of 'J', ealdes' !eui;ili wide, with 5-^;, d, and 7;'t fathoms. Tlierc are, however. t«o
ishoals in it, withoidy -' I'aihoms water over them. At half a mile north from Chichirividi-
Key, there is a larjie one. eailed Salt Key, from the salterns in it. This key is ;i|,o
•surrounded hy a reef, jiearly a cable's leiif^th broad, ex(.'ept on the S. W. part. FinaJK,
about N. by K., at the distance of 1,', mih; from Sail Key, lies Jiorracho Key, wliidi is
very foul, with a reef exlendiui; half auule from the N. E. and S. points of it. All tins
part of the sea just deseribcd is of so reiruiara bottom, that at somewhat more tliaii (u/c
lialf a mile from the coast there are (>,', falhmns, which depth contitmcs so far as 'j miks
north of Jiorracho Key, where there are 14 fathoms, on sandy mu<l. To enter this li;,r.
bor, observe that on gettina abreast of the noriheriuuost part of Sombrero Key, whicii
tihould always be passed on ils outside, place the ship's head toward I'eraza Key, mid i,ii
approachiuif it steer west, so as to pass in the middle of the strait between it and theisjpn
oH" the point, until I'er.iza Key bears N. K. by K., and then S. W. by W., edgiiic; to-
wards the south, so soon as the largest islet oil' Point Chichiriviche bears east; tlicnip
run under shelter of the point, luffina; uj) to S. S. E. and there anchor in 6^ fatlioms
iniul. The plan of this hariior will show all that is necessary to be done, either in goin«
in or comin;j; out.
From the Harbor of Chieliiriviehe, the diicf lion of ihe coast is N. N. W. J \V. Inr
the distance of It^ miles, to I'oint St. .luan : the ground in all tliat tract is so regular, tii;it
at the distance of 4 miles, there are only 14 fathoms water: tlie only danger is a small
~shoiil, called I^a Piraijua, lyinir ofV a little point, named Manatie, about four and a (juaiti'r
miles before arrivinji at J'oint St. .luan : it does not, however, extend more than a iinle
from the shore.
Point St. .luan forms, on its west side, aIarc;o bay, but so shallow, that at a mile fromiiie
beach, there are no more than .T.V fathoms water. N. W. of the ])oint tliere are two
Keys ; the (Irst, half a mile distant." called St. .1 nan's Key : and the second, nearly -2 iiiilo
farther, named the \. W. Key. On the X. W. side of Point St. Juan, a reef stretcliesiiir
about ',' cai)les' |eii,tj;tli; and the Key of St. .luan is surrounded by another about half lliiii
breadth. '^J'he N. W. Key is also surrounded by a reef that extends out about half a mile
from its .S. K. point, havin;^ on it several keys and islets. 'J'he anchoraae is to the S^.
AV^. of St. .1 nan's Key: in order to take it, it will be necessary to |)ass to the ntM'thwuni
and westward of that Iv'ey, and an( hor in any dei'lli of water suitable to the ship's (baii;;li;
It is directed to pass outside of .St. .luan's Key, because the ehamiel formed belwecn ;;
and the I'oint is elijiible for small vessels only; not alone from its narrowness ami the
foulness of the reef, but becaiise the greatest depth of water is only .'5| fathoms.
From Point St. .Fuaii the direction of the coast is about \. t)t)° W. for tlie distance of
19 miles, to Point Ube.o, the whoh? space beina clean, and the depths regular; but tliere
is a farallon, or rock, lying near a rocky or clilfy part of the shore, about H miles iVwii
Point St. .luan, called Penon del Soldado. On the west side of Point Ubero there isa
hav, but being very shallow, it sciucely affords any shelter for large shijis, from the Tnnle
Wind. About N. N. \V. one and a half mile from this Point, there is a Ixink, overwliiil;
the least depth is four and a half fathoms : cm it there are some /oo.sr rork.i.
From Point Ubero to that of Zanmro. the distance is IC' miles, N. W. by W. ; and (m.:
Point /amuro the coast runs N. 77^" W. forming various sinuosities for the distatirt'ui
2'jand a half miles, to Point Man/anillo, and thence S. P:P W. 14 miles, to Point T;iy-
mataynia. All this coast is clean, and the soundings regular, ref|uiring no other cimle
than the lead to run along it at half a league distaiu'c; and in the interior are srvml
heights that may be seen far at sea. Between the Points Man/.anilla and 'J'aymajtiima
the coast bends in to the southward ; anil at the distance of 5 miles S. ()2° W. from thclur-
nier, is the Pay of Cumarebo, ! eiiig a sandy beach so called ; the town of the same name
standing on a hill at the distance of .'5 miles S. E. from it. N. N. W. 6} miles from il: '
sandy beach, and N. h^>'-^ W. 7,V miles from Poin* Manzanilla, lies the rocky bank of Cu ^
niarebo, with 5i fathoms water on it, and from 11 to 18 fathoms very near to it. Froi"!
Point Taymalayma tl-e coast trends S. W. by W. about 4 miles, to Point des Fravlts.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
471
liV low lands rrv-
rt'iih (),j ratlioiiis,
f shoals and r'cIs.
rv than a milr in
)ii it scvfial islii<
ry, called l'< r;i/„i,
\nds oH" thf polui,
er. To tbe wciit-
n the fornu'r. ainl
,•() then; is a ( hun-
ter in it. Ti) lilt;
fj between thtiii a
are, however, two
■rouiChichirividr
This key is hUd
^V. pari. Filially,
:ho Key, wliit ii is
ints of it. All \\\\-
liat more than (me
[?s so far as 'J inib
To enter this li,.r-
nbrero Key, wliicii
'era/.a Key, and on
cen it and iheisleu
by W., edging tu-
bears east ; thence
•hor in 6', fatlu)iii>,
Mie, citlier in going
N. N. W. -J W.lor
(,t is so regular, tlm
ily danger is a small
It four and a (|uaiii'r
d more than a mile
latatamile fromtiie
loint there are two
[cond, nearly 2 milts
1, a reef St retches ulf
ither about hall'llin
111 al)out half a mile
[cliorage is to tlie ^.
iss to the nortliwiwi
I) the ship's diau^li;
[l formed between i;
I narrowness ami ilie
I."?! fathoms.
f. for the distanced
[s regular ; l)"t tli^e
ab()Ut r^ miles IVhi,
int IJbero there is a
[lips, from the Trade
|s a Jxink, over wliich
,r racks.
Iv. by W. : and from
|s for the distance oi
Liles, to Point Tay-
iring no other cuuif
interior are several
la and Taymaytania
.')2°W. from the lor-
[vn of the same name
/. 6,V miles from the
e rocky bank of Cu-
[y near to it. Fioi"
Point des Frayles.
on the past side of the Bay of FjU Vebi (b^ Coro. 'IMiis bay has an anrlinrac;e, and, in
proceeding to it, no other guide than the lead is re(|uire(l, as the liottom is regular and
clean. At the S. E. part of the bay stands the town of La Vela do (!oro ; and about two
miles inland to the eastward of it, an Indian village, called (Jarri/.al. The River (Joro
tails into the sea IJ mile west of the town.
From the Kiver Coro the coast turns alini|)tly to N. W. J N. forming a chain of sand
hills about 1') miles in length, unitinu the Peninsula of J'araguana with the coast ; these
sand bills are called the Isthmus of Medaims, or Sand Hills. 'I'he Kastern Coast of this
Peninsula trends true north for lo miles, to Point Auricula, which hears N. 2'P W. from
the Bay of Coro, and distant ;i.T miles: all the coast has very regularsoundings, there bemg
\ri fatlioms at the distance of 10 miles tVoiii it.
From Point Auricula the coast trends from N. by W. to N. W. l N. a distance of Ifjl
miles, to Point Tumatey, and thence about VV. N. W. ;?^ miles, fo ('ajie San Ivoiiian,
the northermnost land of the Peninsula. The uuiuiitain of Santa Anna, on the Pen-
Misiila Paragiiaiia, may be se(M) from the sea at the. distance of many leagues.
Due north I'rom (.'ape (.'odera, at the distance of ■J.".', lengiies, lies the Island of Orchila,
rather llat, its createst extent is from east to west. ( )ii its \ortli Coast are some peaks,
the highest of which is at its west(!rn extremity. ( )|f the east end a Key runs to the north-
ward about ;{ miles; and, to the westward of it, ;i great /rr/'exlends in that directioti, nearly
half the length of the island : there are several keys on the reef. All the rest ot' the coast
is clean, and may be approached to a calile's length. On the S. W. part near the west-
ern extremity, there is a very clean sandy beaidi, in fnuit of which there is a good anchor-
age, well sheltered from the trade wind, in b and 7 fathoms water, within a cable and a
half of the beach. Ilalf a mile W. N. W. from the west point of the island, there is a
high rock, very clean and steep, forming a passage eligible for ships olany burthen.
S. W. \ W. from Orchila, and S. K. by K. 4' K. from the east end of the'lvoccas, there
is a shoal witli '■> fathoms water; the form of tin; shoal is nearly round, anil is about l\
mile round. Long, corrected by the Roccas, bh° 27', hit. 11" 1-''.
The K(.)Ql'KS. — Twenty-two miles to the westward of Orchila lie the Koques, an
assemblage of low keys raised on a very dangerous r<'ef. This group occupies a space
of 12 miles from north to south, and 213 from east to west ; of which the 8. E. Key, named
(irande, is 6 miles from east to west, and nearly the same in breadth. To the westward
of it is Key Sal, upwards of seven miles in length nearly east and west, very narrow; and
to the northward and westward of Key Sal, there Ilea great number of smaller ones, without
any passage between them. The northernmost group consists of El lic(|ue, nearly two
miles in length E. by S. and W. by N., the French Keys, four in nuiiiber; the N. E.
Key, Naman's Key, and I'irate Key. All the exterior keys on the edge of the reef may
bo passed at a mile distance, except on the eastern side, where the reef extentls upwards
of three miles beyond them. The passages between the keys must not be attempted, as
most of them are barred by the reef, exce|)t on the west side of El Kixpie Key, where
there is an entratu'c int/) a very (ine bay, formed l)y tin; other keys and reefs, in which
there are from 1.3 to 20 fathoms water; hut a foul rocky bottom fre(|iuMilly does great
damage to the cables. The anchorage is on tlu' west side of the key, in 17 or If^ falhonis
water, on sand and mud, and about three cables* length from the beach. The Roque
Key may be easily distinguished by several peaks on it, that may be seen at a moderate
distance. It will be most prudent to give all these keys a wide berth, as the vicinity of
them will be perilous to a ship, particularly at night.
PORT EL ROqilE.— [n October, 1827, while his Majesty's sloop Arachne, captain
W. R. A. Pettman, liiy at the above anchorage, a very (ine harbor was discovered to the
eastward of El Roque, and surveyed by lieutenant, now coiiunander, E. O. .lohnes : it
is sheltered on the north by the French Keys, from the east by the N. E. Key and the
reef, and on the south by I'irate and Naman's Key, and their reefs. From the Plan
published at the Hydrographical Odfice, it will be seen that there is a space of about two
, miles in length, and half a mile wide at the narrowest part between the reefs, wliere ships
may anchor in from 12 to 14 fathoms, and live entrances, or outlets, quite clean.
The Instruction says, " Port El Roque presents considerable advantages, as a safe and
convenient anchorage, over that which seems to have been lieretofore made use of by
ships of war, and in which his Majesty's sloop Arachne came to anchor; as it will be evi-
dent by a reference to the Plan, that from whatever quarter of the compass the wind
might blow, a vessel could scarce find a dilliculty in getting to sea. Nor, from the jnan-
ner in which it is locked in, by the keys and reefs, (a circumstance, of course, produc-
tive of a constant .'rmoothness of water,) is it probable she could receive any injury,
should her commander deem it necessary to ride out a gale at her anchors.
"Beside which, a ship will find another important advantage over the old anchorage—
I that of having, almost invariably, a clear unobstructed trade breeze across the reef, which
can bring with it no decaying vegetable, or other impure eltluvia, to render the place un-
472
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
wholesome: a circumstance not unlikely to occur, to the detriment of a dhip'd comp,i.
uy's lu-al(li, ill thu ruud where the Arachne \i\y, I'rum its iecwurti pruxiinity to a iiKm.
grove iirirsh.
" The cliiinnols are clean, and, without an exception, steep to the reefs on either sidf,
which arc of CKial, and have scarcely sulVicient water on their ed^es for a four-oRit,!
gig ; thus dispiayinu;, Ity the contrast between the sliades of deep and shallow souiulin;,,
a secure (juifle to a straiij^er on enteritifi;. Tin- bottom is mostly of a hard sandy natutc,
ihoui^h tiiere was found a patch of stilfcla" off the N. K. point of Pirate Key, in i|,|,.
teen fathoms.
" The islands, with tlie exci^ptioti of Kl I ,iin, appear to be of a coral formation, wifl,
a light sandy soil, thickly covered with the .iphire plant: most having salt luartjip,.
either in their interioi or just within the reefs, which are skirted with mangrove ;ii,,|
other timber trees, affording shelter to innumerable lamilies of boobies, and other a(|ii^.
tic binls; as the marshes likewise abound in several delicious kinds of the sni|)e gpniis,
that are by no means ditricult to be got at.
" Fish of exi client (pialiiy may be caught in plenty, either with a seine (the inethoii
we adopted) or by anclioring in a boat near the reefs, and employing hook and lint i,ir
that purpose. "^I'lie only (juadruped that came under observation, was a small (lescm
tion of rat, several of which were met with in visiting the peaks of El Ko(|ue. Tlmw
lieights are of rmiestone, which is removed by slaves, and burnt in a kiln at their I'lhii,
(the pro|)erty of a Dutchman,) and tiien conveyed to the island of ('urazao, to be iwAe
use of in the erection of forts, and tor other government purposes. Turtle are met wnii,
but not nu.iieif)us.
" Ships re(]uiring small plank, fine, wood, boats' knees and breast hooks, can be wn|;
supplied, for the labor of cutting them, though it is recommended, should time wlmr
of it, to have it always barked, sjilit, or sawed up, before embarkation, as, should ih
sap lodge ujion decks or any thing else, the stains would be found difficult to eradiinie
There is a well of water upon the S. W. end of El Roque. The supjilv is niicfitiii
never, however, exceeding HO gallons a day. The lime burners obtain what they iiiis-
use of", by digging wells in the sand ; and although that wliich was tasted was of ;iti m
different (|uality, it is not improbable that by a deeper excavation, better may be prociin,;
" A stranger, in running for the harbor, is recommended to pass to the westw.ird (
the peaks, and then stretch across towards Hlackman's Key, which may be easily kiui"!.
as appearing, without the use of a glass, like a single large rock, (though actually ii|i«
islet with buslies on it,) until he can letch through the south channel, which will onf
clearly to sea at the bearing of N. lb E., per compass, when he can pass with sal'otv iif-
tween Pirate Key on the larboard, and a small dry sand bank on the starboard side, botli
of which are bold within the channel ; but a reef extends ,'}.'5.'{ fathoms off the S. .S. U'
end of the former, which, like all others, is easily traced from a vessel's deck bythpf\'
"On the full and change of the moon, it is high water at 4h. 30m. P. M. Spnu-
tides rise ;{ feet perpendicular."
ISLA.S l)E AVKS. — Thirty miles to the westward of the Roques are the Islisd:
Aves, (Hird's Islands,) which are two groups of keys, rising upon two distinct rcpfs, ani
forming between tiieiu a channel of ') milt;s in breadth. These keys are very low im;
flat ; and as the east group has a reef extendinor 4 miles to the north from it, and !!i=
western another, extending 6 miles in the same direction, it results that an approach;
them, especially from the north, is extremely dangerous; and therefore they ou;;liiii
be given as wide a berth to as any other dangerous shoal.
HIJEN AVllE ISLAND.— To the westward of Aves, and at the distance of .33 niik
is the island of 13uen Ayre. It is of moderate height, with several mountains and |if';in>
on it, the most elevated of which is close to the north point. The south point ol il.
island is rather low and flat, and called Point Rasa del Lacre. About the middle nlii'
west shore, there is a town and a small fort. There also is the anchorage, which is >i
steep that at 1^ cable's length from the shore, is a depth of 17 fathoms, and it mcipiw*
so rapidly that at a cable's length further out there are 60 fathoms. For this reason i:
is necessary to run out and make fast a cable to the shore. Small ships should always
be prepared, in order to prevent the anchor from dragging ; for should she be driven liuir
the anchorage, it will cost much trouble to regain it. From the west part of the am li"r-
age, at the distance of a mile, lies an island named Little Ruen Ayre ; and aItliout;h tin
passage formed by it on the N. E. will admit ships of any size, yet it will be prefenil!'
to use the S. W. channel, as being more free, both inward and outward. There is i:^
danger whatever to be apprehended at the distance of a cable's length from all the coii.>!
of Ruen Ayre, except on the east side, where a reef runs out in some places more than
half a mile ; but the N. E. and S. E. points are very clean.
CURAZAO ISLAND. — Twenty-seven miles westward froju the south point of Buenj
yre lies the S. E. poiut of the island Curazao. It thence extends about N. W. -i Wi
Ayr
.15 miles, 1:
some nioii
arc very cl
by E. fron
sandy islar
dangerous
of this isia
that on the
than the re
(lri26) in e
and bearinj
mountain r
passed with
no hottdin '
The islai
whole coini
the rlistancf
is another b
proper to m
faking care
fifierable str
of low land.
<tand Fort ^
Jews. On ,1
(lam, defend]
habited by th
three qiiartei
entrance, wh
on the banks
channel it is
cable's lengtl
from it ; and
enough to br
then stand in
ready to assis
ORURA I
eriy part of (
nearly N. W,
on it, that im
semblance to
some islets cl
so far as the
cables' length
intermediate
Lieutenant
Orubn in Sep
is (moderately
end, at a dista
7 miles to the
of 18 or 20 mi
having, at a c;
in a rocky ish
the east point,
the Sugar Lo;
ward of it. T
the land so far
I N. N. W., wh
I a hill behind.
•|mity of the po
J the bree/e, yoi
I some rocky pa
fget close in wi
Ifar past the opi
chorage in froti
visions, or tern
„ hie to go into t
of a uliip's compa-
uxiinit)' tu a m;ui.
reefs on either sirlf,
[«8 fur a four-oaiii)
sliitllow HDutiilin^,
, hard saiidy iii)Uii.>.
.'iratu Key, in ilur-
(iral formation, with
living salt iii;ir>*hfs
with inans;i()ve ;ii,(|
es, arid other ;iijin.
ol" the stiipc griiiis,
{ sfiiiP (the mptlioii
i;i 1k)oI\ and liiic i,ir
vas a siiiall descrip
El Hociuc. Tli(H*
a kiln at their I'lni;,
!nrazao, to be iin'i'
J'urllc are nietwuji,
t hooks, can be woi;
, should time ailmi:
ation, as, should th
lithe lilt to eradl';i!f
supjjlv is llllClTf.lH
lain what they iivik-
i tasted was of ;m in
Iter may be prociin.;
^ to the westward ■
inay be easily kiiii«:.
lough actually a l'i»
lel, which will oner,
1 pass with saletv lie-
starboard side, bfitn
)nis oil" the S. S. W
el's deck by thecu
30m. p. M. Sprm;
|ues are the Islnsde
o distinct rcpfs, .mi
■ys are very low aw
rth from it, and tfe
that an approach i
("lore they ou;;htH
distanceof .">3niilei,
Tiiiuntains and ppaiv*
south point of tl.'
ut tlie middle nl'ti.^
horai^e, which is >■
oms, and it increas*
For this reason r.
ships shoulil alw'«
Id she be driven I'm;:
St i)art of the anc Imr-
3 ; and although d"
it will be preferaWf
ward. There is r
Tth from all the foas;
lue places more ilwt
south point of Buen
s about N. W. i ^V
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
473
X-) milf". but the greatest breadth does not exceed (> miles. It is moderately high, with
some mountains, (hat may be seen from a considerable distance at sea. All its c!oastH
arc very elcan, and may be paoscd at tlie <listance of a cable's lenj^lh, without risk. S. E.
by E. (roni the S. E. point, named Canon, at the distance of 4 miles, there is a little low
sandy island, named Little Curazao, which, althou^li very clean, is, from its lowness,
(iangeions at niuht and in thick weather. Lieiilenant D. F. ( iunpliell says, ** No jiart
of this island appears elevated more than 6 or H feet above the level of the sea, except
thai on the west end there arc two small clumps of mangrove bushes, showing higher
than the rest of the island. The crew of a Dutch .National Corvette hail been employed
(IrJjf)) Ml erecting; on the east end a larjje cairn of siones, having on its top an old tree,
anil bearing at a distance a great resend)lance to a martello tower. It bears from the
mountain of Sta. ISarbara, on the S. E. side of Curazao, E. by .S. by compass. Ho
passed within half a cable's length of the N. E., N. and N. W.sidesof the Island, and got
no bottom with a Une of 40 fathoms."
The island of Curazao has many bays and harbors, tlie principal of which, where the
whole cominerc^e of the island is carried on, is .St. Amie"s, on the west coast, situated at
the distance of 14} miles from Point Canon. To the eiistward of this, about six miles,
is another bay, named Sta. Barbara. In proceeding to the Harbor of St. Atme, it will be
proper to make Point Canon, so as to run down the coast at one or two miles' distance,
taking care not to get to leeward of the harbor's mouth, as the current sets with con-
siderable strength to the westward. The entrance is very narrow, an<l formed l)y tongues
of low land. That in tiie inner part also forms large lagoons. On the eastern point
<tand Fort Amsterdam ami the principal town of the island, inhabited by Protestants and
Jews. On an islet close to the west poiiU there is a battery, which, with Fort Amster-
dam, defends the mouth of the harbor; .uid on the western shore stands the town in-
habited by the Catholics. The channel leading into tlie bay runs in about N. E. by N., is
three quarters of a mile long, and a cable's length broad, exce|)t between the forts at the
entrance, where it is barely half that breadth. The towns, wharfs, anil magazines, are
on the banks of this channel, where also ships anchor and are careened. To enter the
channel it is necessary to keep the windward coast close on board, but noi within half a
cable's length, as there are rocks and also a reef, extending about one third of a cable
from it; and on getting abreast of the batteries on the point of Fort Amsterdam, luff
enough to bring the ship's head towards the battery on the islet at the west point, and
then stand inward through the middle of the channel. The Dutch always have a launch
ready to assist in towing ships into the harbor.
ORUBA ISLAND. — At the distance df 415 miles to the westward of the most north-
erly part of Curazao lies the S. E. point of the island of Ornlia, which extends thence
nearly N. W. 17 miles, and is 4 miles wide. Although low there are some heights up-
on it, that may be seen at a moderate distance olV, partii iilarly one. which, I'rom its re-
semblance to, is called the .Sugar Loaf. All the eastern coast is very clean, and has
some islets close to it. On the western coast there is a chain of keys, extending almost
so far as the west ])oint. These may be coasted on the outside, at the distance! of two
cables' length, if necessary. This island lies to the northward of Cape St. Koirian, the
intermediate channel being I'.i miles wide, and very clear.
Lieutenant 1). F. Campbell, commanding his Majesty's schooner Monkey, visited
Orubn in September, IB-'fi. From his remarks we extract the following : — " TIm; island
isimoderately high; the east part even, and gradually lowering to a point. The west
end, at a distance, appears like broken hummocks. "^JMie .Sugar-loaf Hill, which is about
7 miles to the N. W. point, is the highest in the island, and may be seen at the distance
of 18 or 20 miles. A chain of low bushy keys stretches along the south shore, bold to,
having, at a cable's length off, no sounding with the hand lead. These keys terminate
in a rocky islet, considerably higher than the rest, about tlnee miles to the westward of
the east point, and two cables' length off shore. About three miles to the westward of
the Sugar Loaf there is a projecting point, having an opening between the keys to lee-
ward of it. To take the shelter atlbrded by this point, it is necessary to get close in with
I the land so far to windward as the Sugar Loaf, and run along shore till the port bears
; N. N. W., when the (lag-stalf will come on with a small red house standing by itself on
I a hill behind. These marks kept in a line, will lead clear of a rocky ledge at the extre-
I mity of the point. To leeward it is all clear. When far enough in to be sheltered from
I the breeze, you may anchor in 4 to .j fathoms, on sandy bottom. There are, however,
I some rocky patches to be carefully avoided. It is particularly necessary for a stranger to
get close in with the keys well to windward, otherwise the current will swee]) him so
far past the opening, as will require half a day to beat up again. There is also good an-
jchorage in from 5 to 12 fathoms under the west end of tlie island ; but as procuring pro-
jvisions, or temporary refit, can be the only inducements for visiting Oruba, it is advisa-
|ble to go into the barber, which is distinguished by the town along the beach, close to
60
hi
474
BLUNT's AMkRICAN COAST PILOT.
Icewnril of tho Hnrnly point, and naiiif<l Port Cnliiillo*. 'Vhv pilots nic skilCiiI iind ;i(i(.„.
tivn; and tlir ancliomnc within tlu" rerlH and flour to llir town, in .'t fallioniH water,
nnndy bottom, in very j;(tod. I'itnIi wiit«'r in Mnirtt'. tlirrf bring no nprinp. It t» n,\.
lertrd in taiikn in the nionllis o( SfpliinluT and Ortidx-i, but is ndiid and wholrnonif."
The tollowin}; is (mm the remarks of Capt. T. W. (.'arter, of liiu Majesty'* «hip Kmii
loiin, Ofioher 1, IHlfj :
"The brut anclioragp al)out this Uland is on the suiitii side, about 4 or/i miles tn ihr
north-westward ol'the viilane. Vou may anchor on a white shoal in about 7 tatluiiin,
with a low and very while sandy point bearing N. ,', K., a remarkable mountain, riearU
resembling a sugar-loaf, at th<' baek of the town K. by S., and the easternmost exirriiiiu
of the laiul S. K., at three (juarters of a mile nlf shore. You must look lor a ele.Mmim
to drop your anchor, as some parts are rocky. Water may b«' procured here by diggnij;
» few (eet in the Hand, at a short distance from the beach."
The Gulf of yinrzHtUi, or of Mararai/ho,
From ('ape St. I'otnan the coast runs S. bv." W. a distance of i;! miles, to Point Mi
colla. It is all shallow and clean,* and may be safely approached by the lead. TIid
point, and P<iint Kspada, (Sword Point.) which lies nearly west from it, at ihedisUiKi
of .'in tuiles forni the entrance of the (iuK of \ eiie/,uela, or of iMaracaybo. The sdinh
extremity of this gull Djjens into the (ireat Lagoon of IMaraca\bo, by a l)«ll;\ thai lisn
but one mouth navigable, and that only lor vessels ilrawing no more than I'i feet waifr,
as thcic is a bar, upon wliieh there is no more than 11 leet. Hitherto no chart ot iht
coasts of this gulf has been drawn from actual survey, nrr is the situation of the bar ;if-
curately laid down ; yet, from jiractice, tlie course to it is tolerably well known, limh
from Point Macolla anil Point Kspada. The Mydrographic (dn)iMission, unilcr ilii
commanfl of ("aptain J)oii .loa(|uin Francisco Fidalgo, surveyed and drew a chart (
that part of the east coast from Point Macolla to Point Arenas, whi(h is a little to tii'
eastward of the bar. The inspection of this chart will prove a sulficient guide ; and ;»
the water is shallow, but without banks, or detached islands, the lead is the best jiwi't
that can be recommetided. The same may be recomiuended for the west coast, wliiri
though not surveyed, has been well explored ; and it is ascertained that it may be miiVIi
approached to the depth of t) or 5 fathoms, in every part. 'J'lioso who enter this mili
have generally no other object in view than to proc«'ed to the lagocm, (or the purposf ,ii
loading with cocoa, tobacco, and other produce. W'e sliall, therefore, now proceed in
give some instrttctions for navigating it with certainty.
Being four leagues to the westward of ('a|)e St Roman, and thence steering S. W
by S. will take a ship in sight of the Mesas of Borojo, which are some level hillocks. m
sand hills, situated (o t)ie east of tlie Bar. From this situation steer about west, kef'|iii;;
at the distance of '_* leagues from the coast, and in from 4^ to 5] fathoms water, until ili*
Castles of Zapara and San C'arlos appear in siglit : these defend the entrance of tl.c i„i
goon, and are placed, the first on the eastern point, and the second on the wesirrn-
They are not, however, on the Bar, but rather to the southward of it; tlie 15ar itself hcmi:
formed by the slioals, which extend out W. N. W. to the tlistance of !ji or li miles Iroii
the Bajo Seco, or Dry Shoal. The sea breaks on all these shoals, and the deeper »i
ter is easily distinguished by its having no breakers. This will be found by keeping!
one and a half cable's length from the outermost breakers olf Jiajo Sero. This ]hw
Seco is an islet of sand, which is about a cable and a half over in every direction- it In*
N. N. E. at the distance of one and a half mile from San (arlos f'astle, and at aboii!
east from it will be seen tlie other, named Zapara. The island of this name has snnif
very high mangroves; and outside of it, in 5 and a half or 6 and a half fathoms, the bottom
is hard mud, mixed with sand ; and this is where ships ought to anchor, in case of ne-
cessity ; observing that the ground tackle ought to be good, as the prevailing wind blows
very fresh at the place.
Being off Point Kspada, at the distance of 2 leagues, and bound to the bar. steerinca
S. S. W. ^ W. course will take a ship to the N. E. of the islet named Bajo Seco.
* By the remarks of Capt. T. W. Carter, of bis Majesty's ship Eniiiloiis, we find llml on the SOth
of September, 1815, when standintj towards tlm shore. Cape St. Ri.>niaii bearirif,' E. i\. 1). J E, dis-
tant from 12 to 1.5 miles, and ofl" shore nl)out .3 miles, they fell in wjili a slioni on w hioh ilie water
broke, having close to it 1.5 fnthnms. He further adds, " The land beinp very low iilunil this pnrtut
the coast, it would be dangerous to heal up nInnR shore diirinfj nijiht ; nlihoiiijh, with the wesieriy
current running tbronp;b the rhannel, a strong counter current will be f'oimd nlonir the slinro, anJ
with the very strong breezes that you frequently get in this channel, it is difficult to pet up, exrn>:
by beating in shore. You will, however, find good anchorage all along this part of the coast, in
from 5 to 10 fathoms ; and during the day you may see all your danger."
On this c
nilvunce sou
to run out .1
The bree/i
har .iiid all i
be liuariled
lli'.'b wai
.') o'clock all
(III llie bar,
III till' rainv
The liar
north and so
he altered ti
uill be seen
same depth,
lo on the si.
gets on boai
Steering I
ilholll, IS the
Caslle cf S;i
Seco can be
A knowlei
the west war
Illation, ever
where Zajia
shoals ; or,
perish : unfi
Vessels di
water, to avi
mediately, t
cliauiiel, shi
A pilot is
which, parii
must be don
that tliey m:i
any other gu
wind general
(leavors shoi
advantage of
soon as the \
also to get aj
to the north,
Directions
"Tn sailiiii
and by keepi
set of the Mn
"On iieari
7 fathoms wt
one good str
Chichibacoa
Bar of Marai
fathoms, and
" The bes
Carlos, and i
" The enti
•' The Bai
Zapara, on t
southward ol
and of some
have settled
The whole B
stream anclu
we hove it u
DLUNT S AMF.IIICAN COAST PILOT.
475
f ckilOiI anil iiin,.
1 ;t fill ho MIX Willi r,
Hpriiip. It IN rill
IIImI Mholl'NOIIie. "
iijf«ty'»«hipKmii
4 or 5 tnilfd fn ilir
I iihoiit 7 liitliiiiiiv
> iiiotintiiin, tifarlv
priinioKl rxliTiiiin
Ilk 1(11 a ('Iran '<|iii
(•»! Ill ri' I))' iliggiii)j
iilr«. to Point Mi
)) tlif li'ail. Till.
I it, at I lie (JiHtiiiin
ayho. '1"Ih' sciiih
)V a Delta tli:ii h,m
than 1'2 iVet watfr,
rtii no chart nl il>
ilion ol' till' li.ir :<(
wt'il known, liiiih
mission, uinlcr iln
nd drew a chart o:
( h iH a little u> il;*
ii'rit guide ; anil <
d in the best jjimt
wcHt coast, wIikI:
liat it may lie y,iif'.\
«lio enlir tins tni'
tor the |iur|i(iv,ii
re, iiow proceed m
ire steering S. \V
IP level hilldcks, i>
lioiit west, ket'iiii :
IDS water, until ili*
['iitrance of ll.c i.a
on the western.—
tlie Bar itsellbciii
'J:; or .'5 miles liuM
111(1 the deejier in-
lund by keeping a!
Sero. This Hhio
ry (lireetioii • il in*
astle, and at abnii!
lis name has snnie
ithoms, the bottom
lior, in case of ne-
Evailing wind blows
I the bar, steering a
(I liajo 8eco.
iml llinlon the SOiii
njr H.N. H, i E.di^-
! on which ilic wiiicr
low I'.honl lliispnri'ii
;b, with Ihe wosierly
nlouir the shore, and
null to pet 11]), e.xcoi';
I part of the coast, in
On thin eourMe, ,\» well a<i the tormer, the depth diminiNheit very Kradunlly ns you
mlvance HoutliMard ; and it will be adfinable nut to upproach the bar in the niftht, but
III run (lilt a;;aiii, or make short boards about 4 Iea){iie4 t'rinii it, until dayli;(ht cuiiien un.
The biee/es ill this (iull are Iresli, and I'nim N. N. K. which i ause a hejvy sea on thu
liitr and all the Hoiitli nliure ; hu that there in grout riMk ut' gettiu^ aground, which inu»t
be unaided again.Ht.
Ili.'li water on thiH b;ir taken place, on full and change of the moon, at a quarter after
,') n'rliii k alleriioon ; on sprint; tides, the w;iter rise-t iViim \i to 'J', feet. The le;i.st water
nil the bar, at lii);h water, in the seaHonot the bree/.es, tn 1 1 feet 8 iiii lies ; ;ind 10^ feet
III till' rainy season, which is in Aunust, Sepiember, Octobei, and November.
The Har cannot be crossed without a pilot ; and therefore, su soon nt, the ship in nearly
iiortli and south with the (.'astle of San ( 'arlos, and in .^i^ fathoms water, the course hIiouIJ
be .ilicreil to the west, until in the depth of t ', furhoriis, when tlie breaker.s on the shoal*
will be seen in a line, about W . .\'. \V. ( 'oiitiniie steering; to the westward, keeping the
gniiie depth, until .;ettiiig abreast of thu last breakers, which will be iie;ir the mouth, heave
to on the starboi.rd lack ; ur what is better, make sliort tacks off and on, until the pilot
gets on board.
."^teeriiis; lor the bar, the first object that ((iiiies in sight, as beiii;; the highest there-
iihoiit, is the Isbiiid of Todas, or 'I'odos, which lies about ','> miles to the southward of the
Casile of Sun Carlos: shape » course towards this island, until tlie CustleH and the Bajo
JSeco can be seen, and then proceed as before direeied.
A knowledge of the r.nirl sitiuilion of the iiioiitli of tin; bar is very essential: tliat is tu
the westward of the meiidian o(" the (,';iHile oj" ,<;iii ( ';irlos ; because, without this inlor-
iiiation, everv pertain would suppose it to lie between the iSajo Sec^t iiiid the Kastern ( 'oast
where Zapar;i < 'astle stands. By such a mistake, tiie ship might be cast away on the
shoals ; ur, if attempting to enter, it would be a prodigy if every person on board did uut
perish: unfortunately, such iiecideiUs have sometimes occurred.
Vessels drawing from ') to 1',' lect water, should endeavor to be at the entranro ;it high
water, to avoid all danger of even touching ; for if she would not answer the helm iin-
inediately, the peril would be imminent. In sucli nn event, from the narrowness of the
cliaunel, shipwreck would be inevimblo.
A pilot is also re(,uisi(e for gei'ing over the Rar outward, and clearing the shoals : after
which, particular instructions for sailing out of the (iulf ar»! necessary ; for although it
iiiiist be dotie bv working out, yet every navigator knows how to regulate his tacks, lo
that they may be >iior" or less favorable ; a ,d here he may prolong either tack without
any other guide than the lead. It is, however, necessary to remark, that in the Gulf the
wind generally shilts to the north, or nearly .so, at 4 or /> o'(;lock, I'. M. ; therefore en-
deavors should be made to tret near tin; Western Coast about that time, in order to take
advantage of it for a long lioiird to the E. N. K. ; aiul to go on the other tack again, so
fioon as the wind rounds back again to the eastward ; not only to gain northing by it, but
also to get again over lo the West Coast, to make the best use of the next shift of wind
lo the north.
Viiecliom fur Nuvigathia fnnn ."^anln Mmiha lo Ihe Bar of Maracayho^ by Capt.
Frederick Cliamier, Ji. N. IH-Jfi.
"Tn sailing from .Santa Martha for Maracaybo, T rounded Cape Aguja quite close,
and by keeping within .') miles of the foot of the .'<now IMountains, carried the easterly
set of the Magdaleiia up to Cape la \'(tla. and had likewise light winds from the westward.
"On Hearing liio de la lla(;ha, you must keep the lead going, as you will be in 5 and
7 fathoms water the whole night, .\fier passing Cape la Vela, the best jilan is to make
one good stretch to sea, and the next morning you will in all probability weather Cape
(^hichibacoa: in which case you will weather Punta Espada, and be able to stand for the
Bar of Maracaybo. You will run the greater distance from Piintii Espada in 9 and 10
fathoms, and the shoaling of the water will be a guide to shorten sail for daylight.
" The best anchorage is with the Castle of the Bajo Seco in a line with that of St.
Carlos, and distant from the latter about 7 miles, in about 6 fathoms water.
" The entrance of the Bar is in lat. IP 2'; long., by chronometer, 71° 4.3' W.
" The Bar of Maracaybo is a shifting bar ; formerly the entrance was by the Island of
Zapara, on the west end of which stands the Old Fort. It then formed its channel to the
southward of Bajo Seco (which at that time was not above water, although now an Isl-
and of some magnitude, and the principal defence of the entrance,) but now it seems to
have settled into a permanent channel of 1.3 feet depth, to the N. W. of the Bajo Seco.
The whole Bar is a quicksand, and when the Britomart grounded in passing, although the
stream anchor was towed in the cutter a cable's length astern, and (JroppeiJ instantly, yet
we hove it up without starting the vessel in the slightest degree. Having ultimately
476
blunt's amkiucan coast mt.ot.
been ol)lia;cfl to heave the <Tuns overboard, the sand covered them so deeply, that the buov
rope, whicli was tlie s;(nii' as is allowed lor an aiicliof of 1() cwt. snapped before we roulil
raisf" the gnn siiiruientiy to sweep it. and tliat oidy (lie next day.
" To pass the Har, a pilot should always be taken : the dill'icnlty is to get one; an old
Spanish onlinance bcinj; still in force, that no forcjij!! man of war is to be taken airos,,
" The town of Maraciaybo stands Jl miles np the lake, and you iiave to pass over tho
Tabla/.os, shoals of soft mud, with about 10 feet, in some places, which you niaj tlra«
through with ease.
" 1 came out over the Bar against a head sea, drawing eleven feet fore and aft, ani,'
never touched.
" Water can be procured, if you are outside of the Bar, from the main land, exacil\
opposite the fort of the l?ajo .*^e(•o; and, if inside, the lake is fresh water 10 miles al)ov,.
the Bar. The seine may be drawn any where in the sandy bays; but the alligators .ir
very plentiful.
" Although the Derrotero de las Antillas and others mention the depth of wafer ui,
Bar in the rainy season, from August to Novenii)er, to be Id.', feet, yet no more thi'.
14 fi.»t, a';, I iliat only in one place, could I succeed in (indiiig. The tides are vtv
strong indeed."
Conlinuatitm of tlic Coast from Point Espada to Carthagena.
It has been already said that Point Espada is the west point of the entrance to the Giiii
of Vene/.uela, or of Maracayl)o; from it the coast trends about N. W. by N. a distanre
of 1.'} tniles, to Cape Chichibacoa, and is all so dean and shallow, that the lead is asm-
ficient guide; and. althoiigli tlie coast is low, there are several peaks which rise inland.
the highest ot" which are named .'"^ierras do Aceyle.
Frcm ('a|)(! (Jhichihacoa. \. 7.'>^ K., at the distance of 10 miles, arc the Mona"s dfi
Sur, or .Southern Monks, which are two very small and perfectly clean islets, lo tiu;
they may be passed at the distance of half a cable's length without any ft!ar. About \
K. by K. from them, at the distance of;! miles, there is another, named Monge del Esir
or Hast .Miiiik, whi( h is alsn very clean ; and at tin- distance of H miles N. ^ W. froiiitlur
first is another group of seven isltis, named Mongesdel Norte '>r > orfhern .Monks: th;-''
iiYP foul with a rrrj\ anil ought not to be ajjproached at less 'h ni a mile. The clKuindi
which the Northern Monks form with the east and with the Southern Monks, as well is
between them and the coast, are very free and 'lean ; therefore there is not the least risk
in navigating them.
l''rom Cape Chii'liibacoa the const bends nearly W. N. W. 2r> miles to Point (lallina*.'
which is the most northerly part of all this coast. From Point (iallinas the coast bcinK
to W. S. W. a distance of 5 miles to I'oint .\guia, from which a shoal bank extends a
mile out to sea. At I'oint Aguja the coast turns ;o ihe southward, and forms a bav m
small extent, named Hahia Homla ('hicha, or Little Bay Honda, which has very shallow
water, ;uid affords no heller: next to this is the Harbor of Bahia llunda, the eastern
point of which is 4 mile from Point Aguja.
BAlilA HOND.\. is « bay of great extent, and its mouth is .T miles wide. In entir
ing this bay you have oidy to be careful to avoid a shoal which lies in the month of ii
and in a line with the two points of the entrance, and which is distant from the west pmi:;
three quartrrs of a mile, and from the east point a mile and two thirds. This baii«.
whose greatest extension is nearly E. and W., is about one third of a mile in lengtii, urj
little more ; and the least depth of water on it is at the east end, where there is only or,t
foot; upon which, with the slightest wind, the sea breaks. In other res])ects the bav is
shallow ami clean ; so that no other guide than the lead is reijuired for choosing an an-
choring place in it, the dei)ths SeingfroiU'l to H f ithoms. '^^I'lie coast from Cajie Cliiclii-
bacoa to this bay, is low and level, but clean and shallow, so that no other guide tliaiiihe
lead will be rei|uired.
From the west point of B;ihia Honda the .oast runs about S. W. for the distance 1 1
11 miles, to a large Bay, named El Portete, the entrance of which is very n.nrow, aiii
the depth of water in the interior will admit none but small vessels. From El Poiiiti'
the coast trends about west, lor a distance of 14 miles, to Cape la Vela: the cuast l^
• A shoal of 4J fnlhoins, or less. f)n the 7lli of July, 1827, bis Majesty's ship Driiid, Cop;
Srrriuel Clmnibers, niniiintr along shore to the westwnril, suddenly shnnled the water from 10 la.
thcniH to 'i- CaiJt- <'liiiiMl)irf snys, " I understand there are only '2 fathoms on it, nnd it if no! in
any chart ilini I have seen. Its latitude is 12- 30' i;., ionKilude 7P 46' 30" W. Point Gnllinas
b.'urs from u S. S. E., distant ""> miles, and Bahiu Honda S. S. \V. \ W. Ships of a large draiiglii I
o(" waiiT shiiulil !iot gi) nearer than to bring the low sandy hilis on the shore in sight. If clear wei
ther, the high land of Chiniaro will be seen."
clean, and
at C^pe la
and which
tills hill fh
which is I
this point,
ship's leni
nr.iy be rii
bi'i ii i-> l><
I hise to tb
la \ da is
named Sii
A.NCIK
southward
nil other g
that at 'J n
iliminishe--
CAl'K
ibout soul
n a grove,
point it tre
ti) the sout
tVoin Man;
although I
Between tl
with-J Cath
Fryni Pi
nnles troni
S. bl' W.
La Hacha.
de (ruia. w
Vela to !•.'
less project
cal Olfice ;
siderable wa
and the st.'c
the coast, h
IP 26' \ry
coast nearer
20 fatho:ns.
La Hacha,
well known,
two peaks I
extend to tl
[iistructio
we have sail
Cape la \'el
nevertheles.'!
rcipiisiie to
age olf the (
will he necc
the coast ; a
cha. in .5^ tc
;, anchorage w
large vessels
and when th
uut.
The takin
in^ marks, d
I pass it, 'he I
' the west wan
. tion. The
4 same purpos
From Caf
tance of 12^
oeut or proj«
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
477
(lre|ily, llmt tlio biiov
ippo.l before we ('(lulil
is to get one; an olj
is to be taken arrosv
have to pass over tlio
whicli you may drii;;
eet fore and aft, ami
lie main land, exacil\
water 10 miles abovi'
but tile alligators w:
lie depth of water on
let, yet no more tiiri!.
Tile tides are veiv
rthagena.
le entrance to the Gull
I. W. by N. a distam?
that the lead is a sui-
ali.s which rise inland.
;s, are the Mons?"' ilf
y clean islets, ".o tlia;
t any ft!ar. About N.
ained Moiiine del E>ii
lilcs N. i W. fronitlie
(irthern Monks: i1i:m'
I mile. The clunneli
lern iMonks, as well li
ere is nut the least riiL
OS to Point (tallinaO
llinas the coast bcink
siioal bank extends a
I, and forms a bayui
hich has very sliailou
la Ilwnda, the eastern
miles wide. In cntir-
ies in the mouth of ii.
nt iVom the west poin;
thirds. This ban;,.
f a mile in leni;tli. ura
lere there is oidy one
er respects tiie bay is
d for choosin;; an an-
ist from Cape Cliiclii-
o other guide thanlhe
W. for the distance ii
h is very narrow, ami
s. From Kl I'oiitif
la Vela : the coast li
jcsty'fl ship Dntid, Coiit.
led tbe water from 10 la-
)ins on it, niid it is not in
30" W. Point Gallinas
SliipB of a large liraughi
•e in aight. If clear wet-
cli-an, and from Hahia Honda the land beains to rise higher. One league before arriving
at C^pe la \'ela tliere is a little hill, in form of a sugar-loaf, against which the sea breaks,
ai)(l wliicli projects about halt a mile to the northward of the rest of tlit; shore. From
this hill ibe land continues of a good height, rounding southward so far as the west point,
wliicli is that properly named Cape I^a \'ela : about 2.', cables' lengtli to the westward of
this point, there is an islet, or rock, very clean and steep to, which may be pa.ssed at a
ship's length, if you please. The channel between it and the cape is (piite clear, and
may be run through without risk of danger, there being fti fathoms in the middle of it ;
hvl ii i- l)etter to keep near the islet than the cape, because; there are 5' fathoms water
1 lose to llie foriiici. ,md only 4 or even less than .'5, near the latter. 'IMie land about Cape
la \ fla is vi'iy sterile, and .S. E. from it, about 7 miles inland, there rises a mountain,
nnnioil Sierra del ( -arpentero, the Carpenter's IMountain.
A.\('II()K.\(!K OF CAPF LA \'KLA.— From the cape the shore trends to the
souilnvard, forming a large bay, where there is shelter tVom the trade wind : to enter '.t
110 otlii'r guide tlian the lead is necessary, for all the bottom is clean and so sliallo'v,
that at 'J miles from the coast there are .")^ fathoms, and Irom that the depth gradua'.ly
diiiiinislies towards the shore.
CAPK LA VKLA T( ) I'OINT MANARK — From Cape la Vela the coast runs
about south, willi some inclination westward J.'J miles to Caslilletis Point, where there
is a grove, or group of mangroves, from which the cape bears N. 2V^ K. From this
point it trends 8. 74^ W. 14 miles, to Manare Point, and between the two bends a little
to the southward, with some projecting points. S. 7'2' W. at the distance of i;,., miles
I'roiii iManare Point, is that of La ('ru/, the iiitermediale coast being nearly straight,
altliougli the Points of Almidones, Pajaro and the Fonton dc .lorole, project out a little,
Heiween the two latter, at a mile and a half to seaward, lies the Pajaro, or Bird's IShoal,
with ■.> fathoms water on it, on sandy bottom.
Kryin Point de la Cm/, at the distance of 4 miles S. 54° W. is Point Vela ; and at 7
index from it S. 4-2" \V. arc the city and river of La Ilacha. The coast thence trends
•S. ()P \V. and S. o.'P W. to Punia DibuUe, which is [Ml miles distant from the city of
i.a Haclia. From Dibulle Point the coast runs west, and i\. 7.')^ W. to (,'ape San Juan
de (iuia, which is distant 38,', mil"s fron Dibulle Point. All tliis coast from Cape Ih
Vela to 12 miles east of San .luan de (Juia, sends out a bank of soundings, more or
less projecting into the sea, as may be seen in th(! charts published at the Flydrographi-
cal Olfice ; bill it is dangerous on account of several shoals on it, which exte?;'! a con-
siderable way off to sea. The fust slionl, which is already notii;ed, is that named Pajaro ;
and the s(?eond, named Navio Qiiebrailo, or Wrecked Ship, is situ-iteci at "J.; miles from
tbe coast, between the Laguana (Jrande and the Laguana \avio (^uebrado, in latitude
IP '2G' 15", and longitude 7;S'^ 14' ."()" W.; therefore ships slii)uld not a|)proacli the
coast nearer than 4 leagues; and care should be taken not to gel into a less depth than
L'O fathoms. The shore is generally low ; but somewhat to the westward of the city of
La Haclia, the celebrated Sierra Nevadas, or Snowy iMountains, begin to rise inland,
well known, ntit only for the great elevation, but also because the summit terminates in
two peaks like sugar loaves, which are always covered with snow. These mountains
extend to the westward, and terminate under the meridian of Cajie Aguja.
Instructions for taking the (tnrhora<rc off the VA'YY OF LA HA(UIA. — Altliougli
we have said that it is nt,-' advisable to approach this coast, but to steer a direct course from
('a|)e la Vela to C.ipe Aguja, and take care to get into no less depth than 'Jit fathoms;
nevertiielcss, as vessels bound to Fia Ilacha must of necessity stand in for the shore, it is
reijiiisile to give some rule by which they may do it without risk. To take the anelior-
aiie olf the City of La Ilacha, and being near the rock or farallon at Cape la Vela, it
will be necessary to steer S. o,"}" W. or .').)' W., with which course run in sight of
the coast; and h iving run 51 miles they will be on the meridian of the city of La Ha-
clia, ill 5,} to 6.y fathoms water, on sandy bottom, and may then direct themselves to the
. anchorage without more attention than by the chart apjiears nc'cessary, observing that
\a\-z,k vessels ought to steer for the anchorage N. N. W. of the city, in 5 or 6 fathoms;
and when they sail from it, they ought to follow this course until they are three leagues
Ullt,
The taking of this ancliorage, as well as all others which have no secure distinguish-
ing marks, demands some vigilance ; and as a case may happen in wliich a vessel in ly
I pass it, 'he bank of 4j and 5 fathoms, on gravel, sand, and rock, which lies 15:^ miles to
J the westward of the city of La Hacha, may serve as a mark for ascertaining her si!ua-
ition. The snowy mountains of Santa Martha may also serve as good marks for the
,| same purpose.
t From Cape San Juan de Guia the coast runs W. N. W., W.. and W. S. W. a dis-
tance of 12^ miles, to the north part of the islet of Cape Aguja, which forms a promi-
nent or projecliDg front uf high hilU, scarped, and with deep water close to, with several
478
BLUM' S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
coves or snr.ill l)ays, and ^ood ancliorasos. The islet of Cape A£;iija forms, with the
cape, a channel of tlirec tcnllis of a mile in lireacitli; hut the j)assage is very narrow, m,
aLComit of the reefs wliich exlend out both from the cape and the south i)art of the islet;
so that, althou}i;li there is water enouiiii for any vessel, yet none should attempt it, as ijv
80 doins; they would run the risk of heing wrecked.
'I'o the N. W. of the islet of (^ape Airuja there are three rocks, or farallones. verv
near each other; and the one which extends farthest (nit, which is also the laraest, isai
the distance of three caldes' !eni;lh. There is another, to the westward of the west point,
uhicli is hii^her than eillier of liie former, and is also at a short distance; they aitMi;
clean, and steep to. From (."ape Asiuja the coast trends S. ;il° W. 3.', miles, to liptn;
Point, which is the north point of the Hay of Santa Martha, and the south point dfil,.
Bight or Ancon of 'raj;ani,'o : the coast is high and scarped, with some beacJies andiij.
dents.
S.\NTA MARTHA. —The harbor of Santa Martha may be considered as one ofili,;
best on this coast. To the westward of its northern point, called Point Hetin, at li.f
distance of half a cable, there is a farallon, or rock, named El Morrochica, wliidni
very clean, so that it may be passed at half a ship's length, if necessary : between it an:
the point there aicfroiiio toHlathoms water; but we advise that no on«' sliould attcn:
this ))assa2e. which is so very narrow, as there is nothinji to be gained by it. Ainiin;
cables' leniith to the westward of the same point lies an islet, called tlie Morro, also\>n
clean, so that it may be |)assed on either side at the distance of half a cable's lf'ii;;i|j.
There is a fortification on this island, which, with other batteries on the coast, (Icffini.
the harbor and city. 'J'he channel between tlie Moiro and the rock off the point is vt'r\
open and clean, with a deptli of water from Ki to 27 fathoms. Tin; bay is also very cIph;
and the bottom t^ood : there is nothinir in it to avoid, or give a berth to, but a bank h^■
fi>-. e the city, which extends out about half a mile from the beach ; but as the deptli i|
minislies gradually from the edge, the use of the lead will \u'. suHicient to avoid all ii-
from it. The best anchorage is to the northward of the city, as much as possible witfc
in the cove, or basin ; to enter it, pass at about half a cable's length outside of the Mo:
rochica, steering thence so as to pass at about the same distance from some rocks wliir:
extend southward from the point:* having passed them lulf as much as possible ai,:
anchor where most convenient, with the precaution of being guarde<l against the ed.f
which extend from the coast and the Points, exliibited in the particular plan of the Iih
bor. On entering into this anchorage, be particularly atteiuive to the sails, tVc. furil-
gusts of wind como otV the land very heavy. The River Man/.anares disembogiie>;
little to the south of ti:e citv, wliich although not large, has verv good water.
FROM SANTA MARTHA TO THK RIVEK MACJDALKNA.— From (mt.
Point, which is the south point of Santa Martha, the coast trends nearly south lUiiiilev
to the ( 'ieiiega, which is a lagoon, formed by some of the branches of the river Majcj
lena. From this Cienega it bends to the west, and W. N. W. a distance of H4 tniies,i:
the western mouth of this celebrated river, named Boca de Ceni/.a. leaving at H miles:
the eastward another, naineil Hoca de Rio \'iejo. or Old River. These streams ttirni /
island in form of a i^elta, named Isia de los (tome/, which is six miles tVoni iioiiiii
south, and eight from east to west. l?y the two directions which the coast takes In'
Santa Martha, it forms a very large bay, in the bottom of which is the Chienga. A
this coast is low an I shallow; and from the Cienega towards the west, it forms the l>i:
de Salamanca, the west point of which is formed by the Boca de Rio Viejo. ^'Iie waift^
of the Cienega, and those which torni this island, communicate witli the Magdalenali
several small channels. The current of this great river is so p(»werful, that at more the
five leagues out at sea if gives a greenish color to the water, resembling that over a sliai
low bank. All the bay may be coasted by the hand lead, for it is all clean. The «k
part of Isla de los (tome/, and the east part of Isla Verde, or (ireen Island, form ik
Boca de ('eniza of the River Magdalena; and in the middle of this mouth there w
two keys.
The Isla Verde stretches from east to west a rljstance of 5 miles, and to the southwst:
of It is another, of greater extent, called Sabanilla, at the S. W. end of which is a hiirbw
of the same name, with 4^, 5!, and 0 fathoms water, on sand and mud.
* rrolml)lv there arc aunkrn rooks lyinR at a E;rratci- (listniicp from Poiiu lectin ; f(ir Capinin >
Chninhers of His Mtiji'siy's ship Druid, says, thnt " bnviiiK hren drivrn out from iho niicln'ra;
by heavy squtilla twice ; on the morninir of the '^
the ship groiitulrd on a rock not laid down in the
previous inorniiijj. It bore from the oast end of Hi Morrochica S. 55^ E., troni the S. E.ot Put
Betin S. 4(i^ W., and from the West Point S. 10^ W., all true bearings. On its inside it isiir.:
perpendicular, with 5 fathoms, decreasinif t^radually to the shore : its outside is a quick desccni*
9, 12, and 15 fathoms ; and on the top of it are exactly 12 feci."
7thof Fcbruiirv 18'-]8, in atrain takimr the hnrb
chart, and which he had passcil inside ot o\\\h
The De
from docn
"TheH
Boca de f '
(iifle, and b
hetweei! th
westward (
The extrc
eastward (i
Dmrtions
" On ma
miles to tli
mock resell
be seen, wl
7 feet water
the Red C
the land S.
taken in ah
from it, till'
" When
will have \y,\
fathmns.
point of the
of a mile fr-
" When
Ontario tail*
the followin
On the insi(
outside the
It is cnni|)o:
vfis lluowin
the rocks, ai
" There i;
pnriinent, loi
eastward of
the bay on w
no occasion
" As the \
rhorage. 1
into less tha
is the reef al
" I have b
the banks to
the westwan
meets the fr
nilla Bay, wl
of the bay, a
"There i;
rises 4 or 5 f
" Water o
Magdalena;
wood may bi
vcred with di
Direction
" The Ian
sists of small
north side ol
person to ap
"('oming
islands, and
continue stei
and then ste«
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
479
Ajrnja forms, with tlip
;ige is very narruw, di,
south part of the islet.
lould attempt it, as in
'ks. or farailoiips. verv
IS also the hu'ijcst, is at
ward of the west point.
distance; they nrc hI:
\V. .TJ, miles, "to |!eti;;
the south i)oinf ofii,,
1 some beaches aiidiij.
/nsidered as one oUh
ed Point Hotin, at ii,f
I Morrochica, wliidi i-
Rssary : between it im:
no one should attcn,
jained l)y it. Alxjui;
L'd tlie Morro, alsovtn
half a cable's l(Mi:ili.
» on the coast, (li'lVn.;,
ick off the point isvm
e bay is also very clfii;
ertli to, but a limik V-
I ; but as the depth il
Ificient to avoid nil ii.,
much as possiblp wiit
:th outside of the Mr
from some rocks wine
1 much as possible m.;
rded airainst the ed.*.
ticular plan of theliir
o the sails, tVc. I'oriL:
zanares disembogiie>;
jiood water.
jENA. — Kroni (liit;
nearly south l,i' iiiilev
es of the river Ma£i;s
istance of .'{4 milcM:
I. leavinc at 8 miles:
These streams I'nrni/
ix miles from iiortli'i
1 the coast takes In"
is the (.'hienL'ii. A
west, it forms the l>it
tio Viejo. The waiff^
ivith the >lai;(liilfnsl>
rful, that at innrell!':
blins: tli;it over a slii.
s allclean. Thewf>i
Ireen Island, form \k
this mouth there ;iir
and to the soutliwari
nd of wliich is a haiboi
mud.
int Helin ; fur Cnptnin >
Diu from ilio niidiora;*
iiiTiiiii tiikiiiL' tlic hnrlw.
(1 piisBi'd inside (it iin''-
;., from the S. R.ol'l'"i
On it.9 inside it isqu.:;
iide is a quick descciii
The Derrofero bein}^ silent on this harbor, we introduce the following account of it
from documents in the Hydrograpliieal Office:
" 'J'he Harbor of Sabanilla is situated about 7 or 8 miles to the south-westward of the
Doca dc Ceni/.a, of the Magdalena Kiver, and is formed by the main land on the south
side, and by the islands Sabanilla, Verde, and others, on the north side. Its entrance is
between the point ofMorro Hermoso and a shoal bank that extends about 4 miles south-
westward from the Isla Verde, and nearly 'J miles from tlie west end of Sabanilla Island.
The extremity of this bank has about 7 feet water on it, and lies about 6 miles novth-
eastward Irom Morro Hermoso I'oint."
Diredims for iiahamlla Harhor, hy JixIrfU Lrif-h, Esq., Covmavder of his Majesty's
sloop (hhtrio, l&H) and ]8-2\.
"On niakiuE; Sabanilla, it may be known by a remarkable table land lying about two
miles to the westward of the fort. On the east end of the table land is a s(|nare huni-
mork resemblin^i a battery. J5ring this humnmck to bear S. E. }, S., and a red cliff will
he seen, whirh steer directly for, and you will pass to the westwa'rd of a shoal, with only
7 feet water on some parts of it, that extends 4 miles from Isla Verde. Its bearinf;8 are,
the Red Clifl'S. E. by 8. ; Morro Hermoso Point .S. W. by S. ; the west extremity of
theland S. W. ; and the N. W. point of the island N. by E. i E. These bearings were
taken in a boat, in 7 feet water, on the edge of the bank ; andat the distance of 30 yards
from it, there are 5 fathoms, increasing regularly.
" When the west extremity of the land is shut in with Morro Hermoso Point, you
will have passed the point of the shoal, and may haul up towards the fort, in from ji to ."?
fathoms. The bearings at the (Jntario's anchorage were, the fort N. E. i- E.;'west
point of the island N. by W. J W. ; and Morro Hermoso Point S. W. j W. at a quarter
of a mile fr^m shore.
"When turning into this harbor, care must be taken to avoid a shoal on whicli the
Ontario tailed when in stays. It lies about a quarter of a mile from the Red Cliff, with
, the following bearings : — The outer part of the island N. N. W., and the fort E. N. E.
On the inside of this bank is a reef of rocks, some of which are above water. On the
outside the depths are from G to 3;\ fathoms, and on it there are from 3.', to 2 fathoms.
It is eoin|)ose(l of sand and mud, and is, perhaps, formed by the freshes of the small ri-
vers llirowing the nuid into the current, which, setting to the westward, carries it against
the rocks, and there being stoi)ped, forms a s])it orbaidi.
"Tliere is also another shoal, or oyster bed, on which the schooners Kate, and Ex-
periment, lost their rudders. Its marks are the magazine in the fort, open a little to the
eastward of the guard-house, also in tht; fort, and a remarkable notch in the bottom of
the bay on with a blufl'i)oint to the northward of the custom-house. Ships of war have
no occasion for going so far up, as the anchorage is equally good a mile below it.
" As the wind generally blows from the N. E. ships are obliged to work up to the an-
rhorage. Thcj ought not to stand inshore to less than 5 fathoms, nor to the northvvard
into less than 5.j, as the bank is steep to, and on the shore side, abreast of the Red Cliff,
is the reef above mentioned.
" I have been informed that heavy gales, or great freshes from tlic Magdalena, cause
the banks to shift. During several visits to this harbor, we found the current setting to
the westward, owing, perhaps, to the easterly current, which from Galera de Zamba
meets the freshes from the Alagdalena, causing an eddy over the outer bank into Saba-
nilla Bay, which, not being able to escape to the eastward, returns along the south shore
of the bay, and round the; 8. W. point to sea.
"There is no regular tide at this part of the coast, but the water sometimes falls and:
rises 4 or 5 feet.
"Water of an indifferent quality may be procured here from the S. W. mouth of th&
Magdalena; but the bar is so shallow that nothing but small boats can get in. Firo
I wood may be easily obtained in any quantity, the beach near tlie river being nearly co-
vered with drift wood."
Directions for enterivir Sahanilla Ilarhor, hy Capf. W. B. Biglnnd, Ii. N., 1821.
"The land to tlie eastward of the an( horage is quite low, and full of trees. It con-
\ sists of small islands lying about the mouth of the River Mag<lalena. The shore on the
: north side of thejn, 1 believe is safe, by attending to the lead ; but I would not advise any
I person to approach it nearer than 2| miles.
"Coming from the eastward, and having a distinct view of the S. W. part of the low
i islands, and the high land to the southward ovei them, go no nearer than Q\ miles, but
enntinue steering westward, until the point of Morro Hermoso hears about S. by W.,
and then steer directly towards it, until you bring a small hummock upon the table land
480
BLU^T'S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
to the southward to hear about S. E. (some yellow-faced clifTs close to the water bi|
then be seen, and nearly on with the said hunimi)ck.) You may then with safety hau
up for it, and it will lead you clear to the S. W. of the shoal that stretches off '2\ miin
S. S. W. from the low islands, with only 5 feet water on it. Keep this latter mark on
and run S. E. until you gt-t a small whitish looking house to the right of the fort, an,;
close to the water, a little to the eastward of the highest part of the highest of thrnebil!,
at the back of the fort, bearing E. | N.; then haul up for it, which is about as high a,
a ship will lie, as the wind is generally at N. N. E.
" Hut if, in going in, you should happen to get into 7 fathoms water, before you h\r
the latter mark on, bear up to S. W. immediately until you deepen to 9 or 10 fathom".
which you will soon do. The reason for this precaution is, that if you are without the
bank, you may have 6 fathoms, and before another cast of the lead can be had, the shir
be on shore.
" On a line with the S. W. part of the shoal and the main land, there is not more thjB
6J fathoms water. Ships of a small draught may anchor close to the fort, in :? fathom*
"There are good turning marks for working up to the fort, but rather ditficult i-,
strangers to understand. In standing south-eastward, be careful to keep a good lonkoi;
for a small red or yellow spot in the land to the N. E. of the custom-house, and keep ;
open of the fort. In standing northward keep a very small hillock on the land, arcr;
siderable distance off, just open of the south-easternmost low land, though this will nn;
be known unless pointed out. A frigate may work in by standing no farther to the S.E,
than the depth of 5 fathoms, nor to the northward than 5i fathoms. In mid-clianr«
above the line of the S. S. W. part of the reef, there are no more than 6| fathoms, or
muddy bottom. The soundings are very regular, but in standing towards the reditu
Btecp to.
" The fort is not very conspicuous, but may be seen 8 or 9 miles. It has 6 ^\w
which cannot be seen one mile olf, and a small howitzer. It is situated on a rising bin-
under the high land.
" His Majesty's ship Euryalus anchored on May 4th in 5\ fathoms, on soft mud, mi;;
the northernmost island bearing N. 4.'j° E. ; Point Morro Ilermoso S. 50° W. ; hisrn?>
red bluff S. 55° E., distant nearly a mile ; the fort N. 46° E.; and the customhnn-
N. 41° E. On the I6th of the same month, she anchored in 7 fathoms, on soft ini,:.
with the northernmost small island N. 2° E. ; the custom house N. 40° E. ; the low;
house at the fort N. 58° E. ; the double highest red bluft' S. G0° E. ; and Point Mom
Heriuoso S. 40° W.
" A frigate might work up a half or three quarters of a mile nearer the fort, and anck;
in 5 fathoms, to windward of all the red-faced land. About 3 cables' length cfflif!
a rock just above water, with two others close to its north side, with 2 feet on them ; ar;
another 20 yards N. E. with 4 feet on it. There are 4 fathoms close to their \. W
side, and 2J fathoms between them and the shore. The custom-house kept open of, li'
fort clears them. Although these rocks are out of the track of vessels working up, i,
has been thought proper to notice them, asthev are dangerous for boats."
COAST BETWEEN ISLA VEKDE AND GALEKA POINT OF ZAMBA.-
From the Isia V^erde the coast trends S. 58'^ W. for a distance of 33 miles, to (hien
Point of the Island of Zamba, or Zamba Point : the shore between forms a bay of (iveo:
six miles in depth, all of it being shallow: for, at 3 leagues from the shore, there a'f
only 2G fathoms of water, on muddy bottom. The Cascabel and Palmarito Shoals an
in it; ihe first, very near the coast, in the middle of a little bay formed by the Morros.c
hills of Damas and of Inasco : the second is more dangerous, for it lies at a league or!
shore, N. 26° \V. from Morro Pelado, or Jiald Hill.*
ANCHORAGE OF (JALERA DE ZAMBA.— The Galera Point of Zamba iss^
low that, when there is a fresh breeze, the sea washes over the greater part of it. To
the west, W. N. W. and N. W. of its western extremity, and at the distance of Q mie*
from its most projecting part, there are four small banks, of diflcrent sizes, with 5', fa-
thoms water, on black sand. Between these banks, and between them and the coast, the
depths are 7, 8, 9, and 10 fathoms, black sand. This Galera Point of Zamba projecis
*Ca|)tan J. F. Chnpinan, when coiiimnnding the Nautilus sloop, on the 8th of .luly, 1831, whf
working to windward on this const, and beinp nboiu 3^ miles from the nearest shore, with Morro
Hermoso bearing about E. N. E. distant 5 or (5 miles, struck on an unknown rork, not three tirrc!
the size of the ship ; it had 11 feet water on it, and (i fathoms all rourul it. f;i n suhstM|iipiii in'rmir,'
he describes it hearing S. \V. from Murio Hermoso, ui the same distp.ice from it, and tVoiii iii(
nep-est shore.
The difference in the given bearings of Morro Hermoso precludes the possibility of assigning to ihu
rock a place in the chart ; but is has been thought advi.Mablo to insert the above account, in order
excite the vigilance of those who may hereafter have to navigate on .his part of tha coast.
nito the sei
liree/.es ; b
the Isia de
Ziiinha; tl
teutiou tfvt
At .S. 2f)'
which is lo
the coast is
hill, forinins
it, called Bi
Of these, tl
S. 6^ K..at
and N. (>'
teuths of a i
another, ol"
C'ascajal. .'
short miles,
from noriii
Ihere is isiioi
on the outsi
• There is al:s
i ;i fathoms w
( warn tiie n iv
j.ciinpelbd to
I NEtJKIL
^ long mile an
y extent. It \>
^ lar form, wit
I them, ih( re ;
land till! eliaii
j-siiukeii rocks
l'op;i, at (,';irt
Isary, serve to
.soutlK'rnmost
C.ARTllA
and tlience it
Los Morri;o<
trends S. ;53°
part of this s
rises the hill
.^lonks, and a
ytliis hill may
10 leagues.
II.VHBUR
built, extends
(forin:*, with tli
■well sheltered
the little tong
•Tierra Bomba,
•and which is
very little watt
■8outh, anil its
■to the harbor (
iOther large isl
♦SUNFvRN
Jnmcs, ciunnmn
mil's. Ou cxai
ieiigth, with 3 t(
^hnrp pniiueil, fr
On May "nli,
, E., the pstini
Jathoms uuiIit tl
These rocks a
Correctly placed
Vosition.
lose to the water iviil
then with safety haul
stretches olf 2\ milei
p this liUter marii on,
right of the fort, aini
highest of thrcplnji)
h is about as high j,
ater, before you \n\,
in to 9 or 10 falh(iir,<,
fyou are without ihf
I can be had, the ship
lere is not more thj;
he fort, in 3 fathomv
ut rather difFicult i r
) keep a good iookoi.
»m-house, and keep ;
k on the land, aror:
, though tliis will nr;
10 farther to theSE
ms. In mid-chanr«
; than 6| fathoms, ce
; towards the reel it;;
liles. It has 6
gun'
uated on a rising bk-
ms, on soft mud,«i;;
0 S. 50° W. ; hignfi
ind the custoni-hon-
athoms, on soft mi .'.
N. 40° E. ; the lo».;
E. ; and Point iMom
sr the fort, and ancti':
cables' length ctf lifi
1 2 feet on them ; an:
close to their N. \\.
ouse kept opeiiof,!!'
vessels working up.i,
boats."
NT OF ZAMBA.-
if ;}3 miles, to (inleri
forms a bay of tivec:
the shore, thcipa't
['almarito Siioals a'(
10(1 l)y the Monos.K
it lies at a league on
oint of Zaniba i«>^
eater part of it. 'b
e distance of 2 mi >*
cnt sizes, with .')! u-
em and the coasi.ihf
t of Zamba project
BLVNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
4811
8ih of .Inly, 1831. «hilf
ircst shore, with Morro
'n rork, not three linu!
';i a suhsoi|iienl ai'ifiir/
■ from it, and from th(
liiity ofa.ssipniiiRtothii
jove account, iii order
rt of tha coast.
niti
hrecz
the
ZiiniL-,
tentioii tiKtlii! hand lead.
At S. 'J'*"^ W., distant 1-1,^ miles from Point Galera of Zamba, is the Point of Canoas,
wlrlcli is low at the water's e(lu;e, but liilly very close to it. Between these two points
the coist is of moderate height; and at about one third from Point Canoas there rises a
tenths of a inile, an^ two little banks, with 'J and 4 fathoms water on theiri ; and there is
iiotlier, of e([iial dcptii, lying N. 58° W.^ at the distance of two short miles from the
S. 14° W. from the Point Galera of Zaml)a, and at tiie distance of seven
aiK
Cascajal.
NEtJivi
long iiiijp and a quarter,
3 water. I ins lies in tlie middle ot tiio nay oi j>iipo del uato. we ouglit to
I warn tiie nivigator tliat going into this bay is dangerous, esjiecially by night, and if he is
cainpelii-.d to do so. he ought not to go into a less depth than "JO tatlioms.
ILTiO SKOAL. — The Point of Canoas has lying off it at the distance of one
iM*, .S. 4!)° W.* asli(, (ailed the iS'egrillo, of one (juarter of a mile
extent. It is composed of three rocks, at a sliort distance IVoiri eacli otlu^r, in a triangu-
lar form, with from "J to 5 feet on them. All arour.d tliese rocks, and very near to
them, th( re arc (>, s, and *.) fathoms water, on a bottom of r(^cks, small gravel, and sand;
and the channel between them and tlit; coast would lie practicalile, were it not for three
,.siuikeM rocks, \v!<i.-li make it dillicult to pass. Fr(»m the Negrillo Siioal, tlie hill of La
. I'opa, at Cartliagena, bears H. 4] W. distant 7^ iiu'es; and this bearing may, if neces-
sary, serve to guide the navigator clear of it. At S. 50° AV., a short mile from the
.souflicrninost M(U'rito, is the ('abe/a .^hoal, with 'J feet of water on its shoalest part.
CA Iv Til A(iH.\ A. — From (Canoas Point the ''oast trends to the eastward alongmile;
and tlience it bends roun(' to tiie southward .1 miles, where rise some little hills, called
Los .Morritos. From these, th(! coast, whi('ii is low, and covered with mangroves,
trends .S. .'5.'P W. 5\ miles to the city of Cartliagena, which is built upon tiie western
part of this swampy land. About one mile and tliret; (juartcrs to the east of the city
rises the hill of La Popa, on the summit of which there is a convent of Augustine
.^lonks, and a chapel or sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin of La Popa. In clear weather,
S {fliis hill may be seen, from the quarter deck of a linc-of-battlo ship, at the distance of
II) leagues.
1IAK.I50II OF CARTHAGENA.— The little tongue of land on which the city is
built, extends S. S. W. two short miles from it; then turning round to the east, it
,fonn», with the main land, a basin, which is the anchorage or harbor, and which is as
.well sheltered as the best ars(?nal. One mile to the soutliward of the exterior point of
the little tongue, of which we have just spoken, is the north point of the island called
'Tierra IJoiiiha, an'i Hie passage which is formed between the two is called Boca Grande,
■and which is arti(ieiii!!y closed in such a manner that only boats, and vessels drawing
very little water, can enter by it. Tierra Bomba Island is about 4 miles from north to
south, and its south point is the north point of Boca ('liiea, which is the only entrance
■to the harbor of C'artliagena. The south point of this entrance is the north point of an-
jOther large island, named Baru, and which is separated from the main land by a creek
^ *SUNKKN ROCKS OFF CANOAS POINT.— On May 27th, 1829. H. M. B. Spcy, W.
Siimcs, coiniuandcr, .struck on n reef of rocks, Canons I'oint licarinj? N. E. i N., distant al)(^ut tlroe
%ii:les. On exauiiiiituf this reef, it was found to consist of several heads of rocks nhout 100 yards in
£ens;th. with 3 to ."> fnllioins between tlietii, 7 fathoms all round them, and on the tops, which are
yhnrp pointed, from 4 to .5 feet. The current was settiiu,' to rlio N. N. E. one mile per hour.
Oa .May ,')ili, Ls^li, fl. M. S. Isis, Capt. II. ration, struck on aroek, witli Canoas Point bearing
_ . E., the estinuited disianee from the land about 2i gr 3 miles. When she struck there were 7*
athoms under the main chains.
These rocks arc evidently the coutir.untion of the Negrillo Shoal, which, therefore, has not been
orrectly placed in the Spanish surveys. Measures have been taken to ascertain its extent and
■^sition.
61
* f'.t !« *
!'•■'» <• •
482
dlu.m's a.meuican coast pilot.
named PaHu-Caballus, navii;;iljlo by ciuioes oiily. On lioth jidiiits nf iIjc IJoca Cl
there aro casth^s to dereiid the eiitiaiice. That on tlie iioith side is ir,iiiiL-<l .'jaii l-'criiinKi
iii'j
an
d that on the soutli San Josef. 'I'his l)o(a or entrance is rallier inori' tlian two c;
thicli
lenni" 1" WKitli ; nut mere are parts ol it where tlie iKiuk oi .snaiiow water wiiicii exiini!,
oll'lromthc southern eastle (San .losct's) narrows it one liall".
This entranec o[)cns first into a iar,i;e and well >lie!tered liav, wherii tlierc is a (|p|ii!i
of 13 and 15 fatlionis. To the uortii of this tlic eastern coast of 'I'ierra l>onifja iniinKj
towards the main land, leavin<r a channel of a mile in wiihli. at the entrance of wliji},
and in its uiiddie, are some shoals, which lie to tUv. westward of an islet called iJnijHs,
and which is very near to the main land. Tliroui;li this strait is the tntrance intoiK,.
coud bay, which corresponds with, or is o|)posite to, the l>o( a (irande, ami in wIikJ.
there arc also 14 and 15 fathoms. 'J\t the north of this second bay there is an entriiiin
of less than half a mile wide, defended by other castles, and w liich conducts into ij|.
liarbor. This channel or entrance has a shoal in the middle, which forms it into i»,i
very narrow channels, but with 8 to lii fathoms water; and the depth in the anehon;.'
no where exceeds 11 fathoms.
Having given an idea of the harbor, we shall now speak of the exterior coast and ihi^
shoals.
BANK OF BOCA GRANDE.— From Point Canoas to Boca (Jrande there is,
large bank, on which the depth of water diminislnvs gradually ; and there are !) fathum,
at 4 miles, or somewhat less, from tlie land. This bank is named the IMaya (iriiiiitc,
and ships may anchor on it, in 7 or 8 fatlunns water, on a bottom of grey sand, in Imu
of the city. After |)assing the most iH)rtherly part of Tierra ]>omba, the depth inciciiNfs
to 20, 31), and 41) fathoms; and at 2 cables' length from the shme there are (>. Toil.e
westward of Tierra Uomba, at thedistance of 4 miles, there is a shoal, called the Saliiidli.
na, which has been nmch spoken ol', on account of the great loss of ships which it hi.
caused. This shoal, which is little more than a mile in extent from north to soutb, an;
U little less from east to west, lies with the following bearings :*
The lltuil, or XortJi, Edge of it.
The Castle del Angel ." 8.64" E.
Hill of La I'opa N. C8 E.
N. W. J'oiiit of Tierra Boniba N.H) E.
Point Canoas iN. 35 E.
'JVic South Head, or K(lu;c, on which the si a .'^ou.nillj hndJ.s.
The Tower of the Cathedral N. 55° E.
Hill of La Popa N. 62 E.
N. W. Point of Tierra Bomba N. 70 E.
Point Canoas N. 33^ E.
In addition to these marks, by which it may with certainty be avoided, in riinniiigtrom
Playa Orando for Boca Chica, ships ought to get into from (> to S l"iUlioms, to the «i'i
of the city, and at the distance of three short miles from it, and then steer south, wiili-i!
inclining anything to the westward ; and so soon as tlu; depth increases, keep nioie:-
the larboard hand, in order to crlose in with Tierra ]{omba to the distance of halfaiiiilf
and run along thus, closing to within a pistol shot of the north shore, at the entriiiicn
Boca Chica, avoiding the south shore, which is foul. 'J'o enter iioca Chica, ami iiai
gate within the bays, up to the harbor, requires a pilot, and one may always be obtaliifi
at Boca Chica. t
As the Harbor of Carthagena may be made by sliips from the southward, it is nocf-
sary to give some description of the south c(tast, as far as the islands of Mosario, inuriier
to connect all the information re(|uired for making the land with (orreetness and sal'iiv,
We have already said that the south coast of Boca Chica is the north coast of tlie M-
and Baru. The exterior coast of this island from the point forming the entrancf !
Boca Chica, trends S. ,'55.^° W. for 13 miles, to Baru Point. This coast is snlViticiiik
clean as far as an islet, named the Farallon of I'erico, froiri which to the south it is ver\
__ ___ iiL.ui II. I III ^ riiii V liM'ii iinn M v, II M I \\ 1 1 I :ill (I
and half a cat)lu()n tlir S.W. in l(i lailioiiis, wliicli o\ii;lil id Ik! tlie bearini;"! of tin irrrli.irs.
moored, the centre of San Fernando Castle will bear N. ll., as btfurc, the ctiitrt ul':i
tl«, IJ. S. K., and the extremity of Tierra Uynibu, W. N. W.
> an Josef Cij
fiiitl. with a n
r;iih'n of Pen
Olios, with se
;il<ti thf snial
•.caret'ly one
tors of i» mile
at the distaiii
Mortliward of
and wliieli, w
Knsario Islaii
miles distant,
tlioiii lias froii
Ch'ir.x liears >
The llnsari
ncfpininted ; I
the shallows,
Anrio Island, t
to the soiithw
of Hnsario Is
'j; miles S. W
Observations c
i
t
■ Rcdccting (
. <'oast, it woiib
given, to eiiaii
as tliLMi; is on
hanl iKirths ar
do at any time
season, that i.-
tliey must be
tlicy Mow off.'
la Vela, may I
no more is !ier
the descriptioi
rarely the e(le(
From Cape
ospecially fron
strong, so muc
present some r
inadvertencies
consequences,
to S. and S. W
Ration, and th
ihougli they ir
ing iieiielieial t
The i)riiiei])
from Europe it
(""aiiello, I\Jara(
garita, and Sai
■ as well as in t
windward of th
> so{pient upon jj
I Sea of the An'
I should close w
I preference thrn
I hofore stated ir
llidund to Barc(
tlio northward
Those who a
root course for
|lmt those who,
vigate to the n
(if tlic lUica CliKj
iiR'il .^iiii l''(rii;iu(|(,,
oif llllili two (■;ll,|^^•
.viilfi' whicli fxtdid,
•\v tlicic is a (ip|i|)i
'ira Jidiiiha iiKliiim
ciitiaiH'o (if wlilij]
isli'l I'allecl JirujHN,
L' i-nlraiire into as..
aiiilc, ami in wIik);
tluTf is an fniiaiin
li cKiKluuts into III..
h I'ornis it into u.i
th in the anelior;i>
tcrior coast and il;<
(Jianflo tlicin i< j
thert! are 'J latliiini,
the IMaya (Jniulo,
f };roy sand, in (mu
, the depth incrcjw,
lieie arc (>. To iLo
, caUed tlio S;dmrii|.
)f slii|)> whirli it lij.
1 nurtli to south, an.
:;4'^ E.
j8 E.
0 K.
iij E.
hnaJcs.
K.
.J E.
0 E.
" E.
ed, in riinniii,c;t'rfiii
iillioins, to the wi'i
steer south, willi'ii;!
•eases, keep nioic!'
anee of lialf a inile
e, at the entniicfi
ea Chica, anil mh-
always l)e obtninri
itliward, it is nocf*-
(if iJosario, iiionkr
•r<'rlHCss and sal'tH.
irih coast of the- 1>1-
in;; tile entrancf'M
e(»ast is sulVicii'iiili
tile south it is von
larts.
Haj(s'\'s ship I-jiropi.
J liaii' iiiiiiul tlicS.W
by li.e hfiicil until ;'-
ti i.'! i'l.iliiMiis, at all".:
on 1 1 If .%'. E. aiu'lw.
iIk iiii.'li.irs. ^Vb
utic ul ."iau JoH'fCai
IH.UNT's AMKUirVN COAST PlT.Ot.
483
fuid, with a rcdf. To the westward of this hitter part of thn coast, that is, from the Fn-
rallon of I'erieo soutliwanl, arc tlie isluiuls »{' Kosario, of wliieh there are foUr principal
iitirs, with several siii;dl ish-ts. The easternmost and soutlierniiiost of these, which is
nl<o the smallest, is named Isla de Arenas, and it is distant from ilie shore of IJanl
Ncarcelv one mile and a hail'; liiil the ehimiel lielween them is reduced to three (|iiar-
torsof a mile, by the reefs and slioals wliieh extend iVoin both sides. W. N. W. \ \V.,
at tlie distance of .'W hiii;^ miles from Arenas Island, is the Island ofRosario ; and t'o tho
nDrtiiwMiil of these two, is that named ]sla Fiarya, or \jOU<i Island, which is the larjiest,
and wiiieli, witli its baidxs, shoals, and islets, estends out to the westward farther tliait
Knsario Island. 'I'o tin' norilnvard of the middle of Isla Lurga, at a little more than ■'{
miles distant, lies the islet Tesoro, with a reef to the westward. Tlie channel between
thcin lias from 17 to 'J') fathoms water, on a bottom of sand and rocks, from which IJocu
Chica bears N. (>:V K..* distant H)\ miles.
The llnsario Islands are very loul, and no one sliould sail among them unless well
nc(|iiainted ; but always keep at a siiiiicient distance to the westward, in order to avoid
tiic slrdlows, which extend out from them. About S. S. W., distant 7 miles from Ro-
sario Island, there is a shoal called the Tortitfja. Tliese islands are fertile in trees, and
to the southward of them there is jjood shelter from the trade wind. l?esides the Bank
of Rosario Island, there are two others, ont> 'M, miles to the W. N. W., and the other
miles S. W. by S. IJolli arc rocks and sand, withf) and 7 fathoms water on thetii.
.ii
Observations and Rejlcctions on narianliriff on tlir Coast of Culumhia, from the Dragon's
< Mdiilk to (Airthagcna.
Rcdcctimr on wliat has been stated respecting the winds that are cxjicrienced on this
("oast, it would appei'.r that nothing; ("urther need be adileil to the description already
given, to enable the navigator to proseoiite his voyage with the createst safety. In fact,
; as there is on this coast only the general breeze, or trade wind, neither hurricanes nor
hard norths are to be feared, the fust being al)solutely unknown, and the second, if they
•111 at any lime occur, never exceed the streiiuth of the ordinary bree/.e. If in liie rainy
season, that is, iVom May to November, there are sometimes strong southerly winds,
tlicy must be considered rather as s(|ualls with heavy rain, of short duration ; and as
tliey Mow oil" shore, do but little injury. This coast, therefore, especially as far as Cape
la Vela, may be considered as a continued harbor, as far as climate is concerned ; and
no more is necessary, to enaiile us to avoid every danger u|)on it, than a reference to
the description given ; for we art; sure that the loss of a vessel upon it, has been very
rarely the eifect of a storm.
From Cape I^a Vela westward, it is proper to give some notices; for as the hreezcs,
especially from Cape Aguja, or rather from Prdiit 8an .liian de (liiia, are exceedingly
strong, so much so, that they may be considered as real gales, it becomes uecessary to
present some rules for making the dili'erent harbors, to prevent as much as possible those
inadvertencies that, during such uumuiiag(,'alde winds, might prove of the most seriou.H
consequences. The shifting of the wind, which we have before said sometimes changes
to S. and S. \V., from .luiie to Nov-;>miier, raises some doubt with respect to the navi-
gation, and tlierefore the following rellections will not be considered irrcdevant ; for
though they may not be necessary for those who are ac(iuainted, they cannot fail of be-
ing iieiielicial to those who arc not so.
Tin; principal commercial establishments on this coast, and towards wliich vessels
from Europe in general direct tlieir course, are Cumana, Barcelona, F^a Cuayra, Porto
(■■ahello, Maracayho, Santa Martha, and ("arthagena ; Pampatar, in the island of Mar-
garita, and Santa Ana, in the island of (hira/ao. It being a general rule on this coast,
as well as in the wlnde sea of the Antillas, or Caribbean Sea, to make the land to
windward of the port of destination, as a matter of necessity, to prevent the trouble con-
i sequent upon getting to leeward of it, we may say with safety, that, being once within tho
JSnaof the Antillas, all those who intend to anchor at either Margarita or Cumana,
^should close with the coast ai)out Cape Mala Pastpia, or Cajfc Three Points, passing in
1 incference through the channel whicli Margarita lornis with the main land, as we havo
lirfoie stated in the description. This routt! also appears preferable for those who arc
|li()und to Barcelona, although there certainly can be no inconvenience in their going to
'|tlip northward of Marsiarita.
Those who are bound to La (iiiayra, from (aiinana, or Tjarcelona, .shouhl shape a di-
;roct course for Cane f^odern. nnssiiKr :iUi:iv« lir>tween the island Tortiiiia and the coast:
liut tl
'P
P
')■
ose who, from Euro])e, or any of tlie, Antillas, are bound to that jxut, should na-
|vig.itc to the northward of Tortiiga, to approach the coast about the same cape, or
*By the Chart it bears N.-'iT'^E.
484
BI,|lNl''s AMEIUCAIN COAST Plf.OT.
little to leeward of it. takinj; ciicc, if tlioy clinoso to make tlin roVk rallrd llm S(fi)|ii(),
which lies to the noiliiwan! of tiic cajie. For tiiosn boiind to Porto Cahcllo, it will not
be so necessary to make (^ajjc C'odera. as any otlirr [mini on the coast will answer tlj^
same purpose, providi-d it i)e siirficicully to windward of tlicir por(.
To make (^'apo (."oderrf, or any liarl)or iipon the coast to leeward of it, every one ninv
doit in tlie marit-ertliat is easiest, or that lie considers best ; that is, lie may pass tlnonni,
any of the straits or passajj;cs that are fonrfcd by the islands to tiio norlliwani of tl,,.
coast; in doing which, nothing more is ncessary than to attend to the dcseriplioiioi
the one that he takes.
Those bound to Maracaybo from the oast, should get sight of Capo St. Roman, nnd
those from the westward should make Point Kspada. In running for Cape St. ]\oiii;in
they may pass either to the northward orsouthward of fJurazao ; and from that cape thn
may run along; by tlie coast, until they sret about two miles to thfc westward of Punit
Macolla, which is the situation from which the course to the bar is certain, as hm ■,,].
ready been stated in tiic description.
Should the navigation to Cape St. PkOinan be made outside the islands, it shouliilip
recollected that the Roques and the Islas des Aves are extremely dangerous on thur
north sides ; and to the end tliat they may be careful to keej) themselves at a sutlirifm
distance from them, especially i)y night, they must not forget to ajiply to their reckoriins
(or the nigh' a concction for currents which they experience during the day, as df.
duced from tiie comparison of the dead reckonino: with the points ofdcjjartiire and |,ini|.
falls t I'P observation of this remark is very important, as from what has been k-
fdre.Si. ' ■ icl. . ? to the currents, they in this place require particular attention.
Thos )"Ui,d ■ivr'it for Santa Martha, or Carthagena, ought, unquestionably, to navj.
gate outside all tl' ■ v ; mds, so as tri make that of ( )ruba and the land al)out Cape la Veh;
for, having obtained a sight of the latter, they may witli safety shape a direct eoursp for
Cape Agiija, in order to reacli the anchorage of Santa iMartha, as before directed. \V>
speak of the propriety of navigating to the northward of all the islands, because hy so
doing a more direct course may be sliaped, and the distance be thereby shortened, whick
is well known to every skilful navigator.
Those who, without touching at Santa Martha, go on to v'arthagena, will ^hw^c i
direct course from Ca])e Airuja for the mouths of tlie River Magdalena, wlienrr, l,v
passing about 2 leagues to the westward of Point Zamba, and one aufl a half from Puint
Canoas, they may proceed direct to the ]?oea Chica, or else anclior off Point Canons, ot
on the bank of Playa Grande, if tliey should not be able to effect an cntninre into ]\m
Chica with daylight. Calculation ought to be made, in order that the distance itinv fce
proportioned to the rate tlie vessel sails at, or tlie sailing of the vessel to the distaiiieto
be run, so as to reach Point Zaniba, and thence take the Boca Chica by day ; or anchor
off Point Canoas, or on Playa Grande, in order, if possible, to avoid the neeessiiv tf
hauling the wind for the night, which will be troublesome and injurious to the sliipaml
her rigging, in the time of the hard bree/.es ; but if there be no means of avoiding it.
the situation must be maintained by short tacks off and on ; or if the wind and sea wiii
permit, let go an anchor.
When we advise a direct coiirse to be shaped from point to point on tlie coast, v
Aguja, Zamba and Cnnoas, it is not only on account of distance, which would be grcatlv
lengthened by following every turn of the coast, but also for the purpose of avoidinnihe
various .shoals and dangers which lie between Cape la Vela and Point Agnja, as noticed
in the description of the anchorage of the city of La Hacha, as well as those lyinsrl'?-
tween Point Zamba and Point Canoas, among which we recommend no one to go iviih
a large vessel.
If during the season of the breezes, it is necessary to follow the route which we have
Qesfciribed to Carthagena, from any place situated to the eastward of it, you oiidiiin
the season of the rains, or during the Vendavales, to steer true west from C'ape la Vp|,i,
iti the parallel of 1*2°, or somewhat more, in order to retain the bree/.e, until you jrtso
far ii 75° 45' or 76° 15' west longitude ; and from that situation to steer south, roniinj
up by degrees to .S. E. on getting info the limits of the rains ; observing also, that it i<
better to make the land to the southward of Roca Chica than to the northward of ii;
becau.se in this season the current sets to the N. E., though in the season of the lirfP/p<
they run to the S. W. Particular care should likewise be taken, not to run in upon the
land by night, but only by day ; for at such times tlie land is very ha/y.
In working to windward on this coast, from Carthagena to Margarita, or Trinidad.
haul close by the wind, and make the boards as long as convenient. The proper tinip
of tacking ought to he decided by the daily variation of the trade wind, which, at ahnut
12 at night, or somewhat sooner, comes off the shore from about E. S. PL, or even S.E.,
if it has been raining before, and the ground is soaked ; and from 0 to 11 in the fore-
ooon, the sea-breeze, or that frohi E. N. fe., comes on. At all distances from the shore
BLUXt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
485
k riiHed tlio Sffiiintl,
rto Cahcllo, it wi|| not
? coast will answer tlie
d ot" it, fvoi V one hkiv
I, ho liny pii.sstliidiinji
tho noilliuaid u\' tf,,,
:i to the dusciijitioiioi
Cnpc St. Roman, w.i
S for Cape St. Roman _
nd from that capo ih^,
lib westward of Pum
r is certain, as lias ii|.
ie ishinds, it should i,?
dy dangerous on tlinr
!inseivcs at a s«(li{if,|[
ipjy to their rcc konir
lurinir tlie day, as de.
of departure and iimil.
roin wliat lias been Ik
iciilar attention.
nf|nestioiial)ly, to navi-
id about Cape la Vela;
[ipe a direct conrspfnt
before directed. \\%
islands, because h\ a,
,'rcby shortened, whirk
rtlia^ena, will slinpp j
ra.<jdalena, w henro, l,v
aiifl a half from Poin;
jr off Point Cannas, oi
an entrance into Hon
t tlie distance niiivbe
ssel to the dLstjinreto
ica by day ; or anchor
ivoid the necessitvtf
urinijs to the sliipninl
means of avoiiJiiig it,
the wind and sea »i|i
point on tlie coast, 3;
liieli would be grcatlv
urpose of avoidingihe
oiiit Afjnja, as noticed
ell as those lying V-
end no one to go wiih
route which we have
rd of it, you ouclit in
St from Cape la Vela,
ee/.e, until you get so
o steer south, rnmin;
-serving also, that itn
the northward nf it;
season of the Iiitpzps
not to run in upon the
' hazy.
argarita, or Trinidail,
nt. The proper tinip
wind, which, at about
!. S. E., orevenS. E,.
u 9 to 11 in (he fore-
tancea froiu (he shore
these variations take jdace ; and the navigator may, and ought, to take ndvan^cc of
them in working from leeward to witwhviird : therefore when at ni,':hf the bice/.e gels to
the S. E. it will be pr()|)er to lack, and stretch off from land until the iiioining ; and
wlion the wind gels to the nortli\\ai(i (tf ca^t, lie oiiglit lo tack and Miind in towards ilio
land again. And if on account of Hearing the land he cannot (•ontinne on the same lack
until the breeze changes, he ought to make short tacks along shore, until ihc breeze again
changes to ¥..S. E., and then again standout lo sea. l?y these means two long strcic lies
tnay always be made, one lo the N. K., the oilier to the S. K. ; that is to say, both of
them witliin eight points of the compass. |{y working lo windwnrd on short tacks ahm};
shore, this advantage ciinnot be oiitained, because the breeze always blows along the
tioast, unless sometimes there maybe a light land-wind in the night, and btlore the snn
rises during the season of the rains; but they do not last, and su( h variations afford but
little assistance.
Very small vessels cannot proceed upon this system, when the breezes are very fresli,
which from point Aguda to Isla l<'iierla are like storms, willi a rouL'h sea ; so that they
cannot make any way: in these cases, it is most advisable for them to keep in near t)ie
coast wtiere the water is smootlier. J?ut large vessels, well eciuipped, and cajiable of re-
sisting these gales, or when the breiv.es are moderate, ought to make long stretches when
the wihd will admit of it, in the manner itlready described.
Ohscrvations hy Captain Don Tarqitato rddrola.
On the coast of Carthagena de Indias, of which I can speak with cerlainty, the breezes
do not begin until the end of November, and generally with little slrengih until ihe tuid-
dle or end of December, from wliith tinu! they are powerful both day and night; only
they frequently, but not always, moderate a little between siin-r' and nine or ten in the
morning, when they recover their ordinary force. When yoii re . y near the coast,
especially if it be high, you may often (ind them moderate at th" daw f day, and at sun-
rise veer to C N. E. until ') or 10 o'clock, when they again 'ew i,i dieir usual direc-
tion, whicli on this coast is from X. N. E. lo N. E. Of these va- iations, those who are
acquainted with the coast, and sail near il, may take advantage : and it may be better, at
night-fall, to anchor at the various points! which oH'cf, even fork ge vessels. In the sea-
son which is not of the breezes, that is from April or May i nlil December, they experi-
ence the wet season, i)ut not in the other seasons, as li;is ^11 made nianifi'st ; adding,
that a vessel which attempts to get to windward outside, wmI not acomplish it without
great difliculty and damage, as much from the strength of the breeze, biu-ause the sea is
very rough and short as far as .''.0 or 40 leagiu's t'roni the coast, when it becomes longer ;
and because being foired in the night to take in reefs, and that the current draws towards
the N. W. quarter, it results that the little gained by tacking is lost by these causes.—
'These facts have beetl proved by continued experience.
COAST OF COLOMBIA, ]VIOS4{UITO, HOrVDH RAS,
AIVD YlJCATAiV,
From Carlhaffcna to Cape Catoche.*
THE RO.SARIO ISLANDS and ISLAND OF BARU have been described in
the fireceding section, and it has also been noticed that the latter is separated from the
mainland by a narrow channel, named the Paso Caballos (Horse Pass.) The north
end 0!" the channel opens into the first l?ay of Carthagena, the south end of it into the
N. E. part of a great bay between the ]slan<l Baru and the coast, which extends inward
north -ea-sterly nearly 12 miles : ihe points which form its entrance are the ,S. W. end of
the Island Baru on the west, and Barbacaos Point, on the main land, on the east. This
bay is named Barbaeoas, or the Little (Julf of ]>aru ; it has several shoal spots in it, but
is generally clean, wilh a depth of.*] to •) and 10 fathoms, on fine sand and ooze ; the luost
general depth being from 4 to 5 fathoms. Jn it there is very good shelter from the
breeze ; and, in entering, care must be taken to avoid the edges of the shoal ground that
extends from the Rosario Isles, and not to forget the Tortuga Bank, which lies at the
distance of 10 miles S. 42° W. from Rosario Island, with 7^ fathoms water, on sand and
rock.
• From the Derrotero de las Anlillas, &c. &c.
486
nH'M S A.MEUICAN COAST I'lLOT.
At one niilr N. 11" W. fnmi Hiiibnrons I'oinf. is a sJmal, tlio lr;i«t wnfor on whlili ,^
lwi» liiiliiiiM-i ; niiil llicio is ;iii(illii'r lyiiiu S. ^'i ' W. '.", miles (rMtii tlic siiiiic point, «ii|,
trrtm 1', to "J liillioiiis on it; llirsc :i|c ii;mii'il ihi' l{:iili;uo:is S|io:i|s. Itrsitjrs i|||.»,.
tlii'H' iiic two oilii'is, iiaiiiiMJ Alillo iiiiil M itiinill;i: lln- (ii-.( lirs ,\. •,•,", W, ijistiiiii :;
niiji's tioin ISiiiliiuiias I'oint, with tli<* ili'|itli of otii! loot, on rock ; :in<! tin* srronil Iks
N. K. by N., nearly •'") miles iVom the same point, and lias very little water on it.
i-'roiu Harliaeoas I'oint the coa .1 runs aiioiit S. ^ W. 1')', miles, to the Kimfon, i,.
IM'ili' of 'ri:;ii:i : 'his is easily I^iidwii, hi'c.an-ie ii enro or lull rises on il, uhieli is il,,
lii^hesi ol' any on this part ol' the coast. From this {''ronton a hank, with little unt.^
un it, extenils lo tin- north a little westerly, about I miles, the extremity iif which ojipdMi
to I'oint (jomisario (the (ir>t projeetinu point to the north,) exleiiils -J', miles iVoin sliur,
f'nmi the !■" ronton or lUiill' ol' 'li^iia to tin- l>oi|neroti or I'oint San lleniardn, it is i.
miles S. •_'.■> \V. To the iioilh-easiHanl ol' I'oint San llernardo, ami in the (lirer-iioii„:
the coast, are two ishls ; the northernmost named jsleta de .lesus, and the southurn (in.,
Cahriina ; they lie respectively at 1 and ;! miles rrnni the point.
The I'oint ol' San Meriiardo is the S. W. point of a drowned mangrove key; hctwpfr
it and the coast there is a narrow (hanmd, called the r>o(|iieron, rrei|iiented hy caiKies:)!,,!
piroiines. S. -JO \'.. Ironi the I'oint .''^aii lii'niardo, nearly "J miles, lies a rr>r/,ii /,„„,
calleil the I'ajarito (iiittle l!ii'd Kock;) the least water on which is 3{ fathoms, and tin
most Ij fathoms.
To I lie westward of .'^an llernardo I'oint lie tlie islands of the sanio name, which ?\<'
eleven in iiniiili(>r. incliidiir^ those of .lesiis and Calnniia, already mentioned ; lint witlioi,!
inchidini; some othi'r small islets of little consideralioii. The rdi;e oC the liatiks on «||i.|i
these islands are situated, extends to the westward I'j inileu, and nearly 1(1 from norlli!,
sonlh. Various little channels are formed liotwecn tliem. The depth on the hiinkti
the west and south of tiiese islands is very umM|ual ; for you may sndilexily pass frmi;
shallow into tleep water. All the i-^lands are low and covered with trees.
SALA.MANt^l'ILLA CI I ANNK L.— The SalamaiHpiilla ('hami<d lies to the p:^.
ward of the San IJenardo Islands, or ralhcr helwcen the hank on the K. and S. K. miJ'
of the Island Salamaniinilla, and that on the west side of the islet Cahnina. Its dirn'
lion is N. 17 ' K., and contrary, and in the narrowest part is only three tenths of a iiiilc
wide ; hut the rieptli is fro 1 11 ') to IJ', fathoms, on clay, w ith .') fat I ion is at the ed;;ps of tlif
hanks. The liaiiks have hut little water on them, and therefori'. unless jirecisidy in tl:.'
middle ot' the |)assa,i,'e, there is j;reat danger of i;roiiiidini;. Tin; (diannel is ncnrcrin
Salaniaii(|uilla than to Cahruna; therefore it is necessary to pass nearest to tlic iW-
mer: and if the weather he f lear, the hanks may he seen, hy which ships may s.ii!
throiii;li with less risk: hut, in thick (loudv weather, the hand lend is the only ^'iiiilc.
SAIMNC Tllltortill TIIK .SAL'AMANtin Lf.A ('II ANNKL.— To «iai!
through this Ciiannel from the north; so soon as yon liave passed to tli;' west\\aril of ik
Ivosario Islands, steer towards the Cerro, or Hill of Tij^tia, hearing in mind that iL'
.sltallow hniiL\ called the Tortiiua, lies N. r.;] ' \W from that hill, whicdi will he a sudid.i!'
guiihi for yiviii^ it a snilalde lierth : that is, you must not steer towards Tij;iia I lill wlv.
in that direction, hiU eitlier to llie southward or eastward of that hearing;. Stand mi uii'!
the easlerimiost of the l-osario Islands, named Salaiiiaii(|iiilla, hears south ; iVoin wiiirii
Rituation you may steer S. S. K. until the Hill of 'i'iiiua bears N. E. ; and then steer S. \V.
keepint; the same hearin;; on ; and keepini;in mind what has been previously saidofiliij
rhanind, have persons on the look-out lor the hanks, which stretch oIVI'kiiii liolli m(1p\
and which, as we have liefure said, show plainiv.
V,\ LV OF .MoKKOSt^riLLO.— Having' passed throuiL'h Salamanfjiiilla CliiiiuMi.
and bein':; opposite to San IJernardo I'oint, you will discover the preat l>ay of Tnhi, cnlli i
also the (iulf of ,M()rros(|uillo, \tliich is fiirmeil by the islands of San I'enitirdo mi iL''
ntntli, and the Island h'tieite on the south. The latter lies with the southermiwist K'V
uf the loriiier, bearint; N. MP E. disiint -Jb miles. All this (iulf lias a yooil de|iili of wa-
ter, there beill^ from *) to •,';» fallioms, on j;reeu oo/,o ; therefore a ship may aiulidr ii;
any part of it during the season of liiilit breezes, calms and variable winds.
TOlil'. — Thirteen miles S. .';:!', K. from Toiiit San liernardo, in the bottom of thi>
(iulf, is the town ol" Santiago do Tolii, situated close to the sea: this town lies l.T mil''
N. b.'J" E. from the month (d'the Harbor of ("ispata, and is in hit. ')^ ;!0' bU". Tim Innl
in the vicinity of this town is plain, with savannas, which extend to tlio norlli. en-'. ;iii'i
south, terminated on the i-ast by a chain of mountains, over which there rises one nmiiiii.
forinin'' two nmiiil hiiiiimoeks, named the Telas de Tolu : these lie I'J miles to the
easlwiird of the town, and are useful m;
uks f
or reeo^ni/.mi
II
le coast.
In order <o pass to the westward of the Islands of San r.ernardo, it is necessary to
keep at aiioiil six miles from the norlhernniiist of thi'iii, named Tintinpan ; and then iini
sleer to the eastward of south, until the point of .*saii I'.ernardo bears K. by N., in nliii'I'
direction you may steer towards ■• ''' ' . It is very convenient iVu' those boiini'
i„ .Saiiiiai;
i.tvaiicod
iii.nk llic>
miiiiIm^^iI'
.>.,•) U'..
i,iiit ^'i ni
p.iui. Ci-'
Hill Icadd
I'l :i:i!
t.iiicc of 1
tliu fasten
era poiiit>
with liit^li
<,l W. ti
iiild llie be
ilir latter
ill this H;i
hills of Sai
jiart of the
pote: neai
the distaiH
IJill lies S
The Kiv
M'ini-circli
'. including;' i
\illanes of
From til
runs S. f\
the iiitiTint
I and I'uiita
\ farlhesl fro
I with a ilc|)i
" I'liiita de
uiate liei^h
.Kill to t'le I
with soiue !
.\. K. to S.
water : the
oii^'ht to ta
The S. ^
at the distal
«ith a reef,
this reef lii
liiy naiinal
liithoms, ol
this bay, a r
alile peaks.
Point l)ro(|
IS LA F
of J I.'; mile
(.! miles. '
wliat less fr
palms, whi(
; Arenas I'oi
SOIIK! of wli
tlie reefs, ai
i saiid. lies
'lie one witi
111(1 the oth
^ mile from 1
. Mie from b i
schooner, a
S. I'J ' \V
<'aribana, m
llie iiitcrm
iliis space is
ULUM' S AMLlllLAN COAST I'lLOT.
487
'ast wnter on which \\
tin- siiinr' point, Mill,
(i;i1h. JJt'siiIrK ilii„,
N. '.'•'» W. ilistiiiit ::
; iiiid the stTdnil li(<
Ic wiitrr on it.
s, to the Kiiiitdti, I,.
i on it, uliirli is i||,>
):ilik, \\\\\i iitllr Will,
IlitV III wilicll 0|)|l(|>||,
s 'J}, mih'S I'rom .slum
■^Mii lli'i'mii'iid, it is 1
itiil in tlii^ (lircclioiM.:
and the soutliurii otH'.
inarovc key ; Ijctwrri-
i|ii('nt<'(l Uy (•■.UHtt's-.iM
Ics, iirs a rnrki/ Imu^^
is 3| futhoins, und iIk
anic nniTiP, which w
ifiitioni'd ; lint witlmi.'
(>(' till" lianks on ulii'h
early ID (Vorn norlli ',
di<|illi on tlio li;inkt>
ly siidflfjdy pass tnnn
li trcos.
anncl lies to the pns|.
(lie K. and S. K. ^n!'
t Calinma. Its dntv
three; tenths of a mil'
iMiis at the i'ilf;psnf di"
iinli'ss pfccisidy in th"
(; clnnnid is ncnn^r in
s-s ncari'st to the lur-
.liirli ships may sail
is the oidv iinidc.
ANNKL.— To *j.l
1 tli;' wesHvard nt ll;c
ni; in mind tli;it il.'
( h will lie a siidiciM!'
•(Is Tiiina Hill »li'
n:^. Stand on iiii'i
s south ; t'loin wliicii
md then steer S. W.
irevionsly said nf ilnj
1 (llV tlOlM Iiolli sii1p<,
;iniaii(|uilla ('Iianiul.
I I lay ol'Tnlu, cnlW
San I'i'rnardo oii lii'-
le sonlhernn'dst Ivy
.s a i;ood deptli "I »3-
hip may anchor iii
' winds.
n the liottom of tk
lis town lies 1" mil"
') .';u' ')')". The Inml
the north, oast, anil
icro rises one muniit,
lie 1-J miles to the
ist.
n, it is nerrssary tn
tiniian; and then n"'
rs !•:. liy N., inwliirli
liciit ("or those bounil
aro
Saii'i^HO ''" I'^'hi. Ill I'litir by the .^'alauiatKHiilla ('haninl; and ^o j-oon as they
Ivanced lo aliri iisl ol' San liernardo I'omt, they will see the 'I'ttas ile 'I'ldn, with «hiili
' iiiiirk lliL'y *iii' dirtt^t themselves lothat town. ( )t oilier liill.-, wliieli are Hcen tti tin*
DiillMvard, ill)' easii'ininost is tailed Santeio; it heais iiom the I'oint ol San llernaidu
.■>..') W'., dist.inl Jl iinles; and the we-.iermiK).st, named Cispaia, hears S. W W. dis-
tant -■' mil -s Iroin the sanii; polnl. Near the norih side ol this hill is the I lailior ol ( 'is-
ii.ita. Cispala Hill is not so lii^h as ih.it ol S.mlero : steeriiii; direeily liitsveeii the mo,
udl h'ad dirtjct to the eniraiK f ol'lhis harbor, hearing in mind what was liel'ore said.
rrKIJri> DK CISI'ATA. — The innuth olC'ispata llarltor lies S. K. W. at the dis-
liiiicc or 17.' mill's t'nttii the Point ol' I^an Mernardo ; and the I'oint of Zapote, which i»
liic eastern point oT the harlior, is in latilmic ') x!!' 1')' , and lonjiitiide ?•'> .')l : the west-
irii iMiinls ari' Terraphn and lial ladia, d. slant iVom each other one mile, and covered
with liit:h man;;ritves, e.Mcndin;; into the water. From its month the iiarlmr runs in S.
{,.{ ' W. to the dlstaneu ol' 7 miles. This harhor is well .sheltered Iruniseas anil winds,
;iiid the best anchoraj^o is on the northern shore, hetween IJalaiidra ml iNavios Points;
liir latter belnj; very remarkable I'lom its pnijectiii^ out to the sonlhv. ird: the dani;erii
in this Harbor wdl be seen in the I'lan piibli->hi il at the I lydro^raplm al (Mliei!. 'Tlio
hills ol' Santeri* .iiin *'ispata will serve to liml this harbor e.saetly ; the midiile and hiuhesl
(i.irt oltlie loriiur lies S. 'IH^ K. distant above l miles Irom the Fronton, or point ot /a-
piitc; near this hill, and to the westward ol its north part, is the villau'e of Santero, at
ilie distance of two miles from the little I'.ay of Za|tote. 'I'lie hi^'lifst points of ( 'i.-pata
llill lies S. 'J7 ;>•)' W. r< Uiu<j, miles from tin) said Fronton, or I'oint of /apote.
The River Sinu diseiiibou;;es into the interior of Cispata ll.irbur: it forms almost a
^eini-circdc towards this west and south, pa.->sinf; by the southern slope of ('i.spata Hills,
mc'iudinj; to this |)oint, the villa:;e San lliMiiardu ilel \ientu on the left bank, and tho
■ villanes of San Nicolas and Santa Cru/, de Lorica on the ri'.:ht.
From the Me/.ti/.os I'oint, which is the noriliemiiinsi point ot'Cispata llarbnr, the coast
runs S. 81"^ W., S. 7U^ \V. and .S. (;;! W. to Point P.edras, a disiauce of 17 j miles: in
the iiitcrniediate s|)ac(', and on the beariims mentioned, are found the ( 'ieneuade \'enado^
and ruiiladel N'iento (Wind I'oint.) between which is the part where the bank cxtend.s
f.irilicsl from the coast ; for there il cMeiids [}*, miles northward, and b ' m'.les westwaid,
with a depth ol';i, I, and .') I'alhu.iis, on s.ind and rock, and also on sand and oo/e.
Piintade Piedras foriiH a front in the direction of .S. •11)^ W. for ."5 miles : it is of mod-
erate heii^ht, sc.irped, and foul at the vwiter's edye : at its N. E. end a small bay is formed,
.mil to t'le northward of it, at the disiance of two cables' ItMii^th, lies a lillle hi^h rock,
with soii.\e shoals half a mile to the N. W. of it. Thesis shoals exleiio nearly a mile Iroin
N. F. to S. W. and hive some rocks above water, and hIIk m wliich appear mily at low
water : the depth on them is from 1 \ to •,' fathoms. Those who run along near this coast
oiisht to take care and keej) the lead constanlly i^oiiii;.
The S. W. extremity of the front or blul'ol I'oint Piedras is called Point Itada; ami
at the distance ot live loiii; miles S. .!') W. from il, is I'unta Proipieles, low and rocky,
nitli a reef, which extends out northward two cables" lenL;tli. At a slioil distance froin
this reef lies the 'J'oro, or Hull Shoal. IJetwcen limqui les I'oint and Kada I'oint is tho
liay named Fnsenada de la Kada, which has a low biachy shore : it is shallow, with .'>|
liithoms, on oo/y bottom, at the distance of ei^ht to nine tenths of a mile. S. K. I'roiii
this bav, a ridiii; of hills may be seen, extendiim \. K. and S. W ., having; three remark-
;i!de peaks, the highest and largest of vvJiicli lies about live miles suutheaslward from
I'oint liioiiueles.
ISLA FFFIITK.— The \. K. end of Puerto Island lies S.Hl.V' W. at the distanro
iif :.'l.; miles from Point Mestizos, and from the N. E. part of Poiiit Piedras N. 57" W.
(>.', miles. This island is one mile and a i|iiai'ter in length from north to south, and some^
what less from east to west : it is hi.^h in the middle and covered with trees and royal
palms, which ajipear al)uve the others. It can be approached at the south point, named
Arenas I'oint, only ; because it is surrounded by reefs, with various scattered rocks,
.some of which apfiear above water, and others do not. ( )n the bank on the outside of
I the reefs, and even on them, lliere are from -J to I f.ithoms water, on rock am! coarso
.land. IJesides these banks, which surround the island, there are two other small ones ;
tilt! one with 4.7 fathoms water, on sand, liod S. S. W. from the island, distant one mile ;
and the other, with h\ fathoms water, on sand and i;ravel, lies S. ~'S ' K., distant a lonj;
mile from Arenas Point. In tlie channel between the island and the main land, tliero
■^ are from b to 11 fathoms water. The island may be seen I'ruiu the deck of a brig or
schooner, at the disiance of »'U miles.
S. 4'J^ W. from Hro(|ueles Point, at the distance of about ')(> miles, is the Point of
<'aribana, wliich is the northernuiost point of thi; (Iiilf of Praba, or of .N'oftli Darien.
The iiitorinediale coajt forms bays, trending inward (> miles, or somewhat less: and ii>
tlu3 space is the front uad hill of Turtufion, which is remarkable; the [luiiits uf Arbo-
-i88
BI.UiNT .S AMLUICA.N COAHT I'll-OT.
k-tfi, III LIkIc 'I'lTi's; Siui .lii.iii, mid Siiviitiillii : lliiit uf Snii .liiuii is lii^h uiid nciiineij
tli't uilii'i's art* liMv to tli(> tvittn'N «<(lj;i<, with hisu hc.-t rriiiii Dtio piuiit (o tin* uilicr. Jh,'
iiili'i'iiM i-« :i \'iw iaii';i> iil' lulls, (rriniintiii'; iicai the cnnis or liillt of Suvanillu, whir))
. lire iiltoii I iiiilfsS. S. K. iVoiii llir |iiiiril nt lliil ii uiii>. All this coiist \\mhk hiuik lvio|>
I aliiii; it; SI) lli.il,<Jiii-iii^ the himsoii nl Ij^iit lir<-r/fs, or uf v.ui.iiilc wiiidi and cidini, stlnp,
iiM) aiiclior on ii, at any ciinvcnii'iit di.siancc Iidiii tlif < itasi, a<( (lrditl^ to the si/x uj'iji,
vrNscj. 'J'hi'ii' art! tin utlior ohi^liucliuiis on it than a tarallnn, whicli lira S. 3!)' W, j
l<Mi^ mill; and a half iVoiij |Sni(|iir|rH I'oinl; thi! Island 'riirln,Miilla, which li<>!t I'xiiilei
>S..'i7 W. Iioiti thf .sann; pmnl, and ncirlv west iVoni the {''iiMilnii and Mill ol 'I'orlugon
raiiii'i' nion- than I nulcs; and iiii> ^iii^anlnnivs Sinial, wiiiili lirs S. W. iVuni Savatiilj)
I'ltnil, at the distanit; nl a lonj; mill-; liiis lynii; ni-aithi' slntri-, pn'si'nts no danger, cj.
<'e|)t til tliiMi* who nin u<-arthat |ioint, or (ii^anlnncs I'oinl. 'rortuunilla Island is low,
and covered with trees: a >iiiall leef eMcrid* iVinn it innthward, with very little wairr
on It
I J 1 1 ( I •
CAKIIIANA I'OWV.— diilj' <./' I'nihii, or Ihnirii. — Vitmt ( 'aribana, as we have sj.
ready said, is the uorilieininust |i(iinl (d' the (iiill ol I'lalia: it is low, with trees nii ii,
and suiiiiiiudcd by rucks elosiMo it. It is readily known, bei'aiiselroni it the eoast trendi
to the siHilb til rnriii the said ( iiill', and also by the ( 'erro de Aj^nilla, or Kagje Hill, wind,
is near ii : tbis Iiill is in l.ilitiidit H ;;7' .'iit N. and lonjj;itiidt' 7(» ^ 5(>' .'{()" \V.; and from
it, Cape 'Till 11 roll, uliicli is tin; western point that I'orius the tlulf of Darien, bears ^i.W
W. "J') miles dislatit.
Auml.i llil.i, although ul' iiioderatn height, is remarkable iVoni being insulated in thi
middle III' low land.
SIIOAh.S o|'|.' CAKIIIWA POINT— The shoals o(V Caribana Point are at tlieS,
\V. end III tlie l;anl\, ylrciily described, as generally cxtiiidinif aloim the eoast; theoutfr
eurncr ot whii li, with l! raihoms water, is t miles N. W. by N. Irom the point.
In this extent, and nearly in that direction, there arc two rocks; one, at a little dii-
taiice rioiii the |ioiiit, partly shows itsill'; and the other farther separated from it witl;
very litile water on il. Kioni the eilf:e of tin; bank, in .'i fathoms, the depth iticrPiiso
oiitwai'il'i to (laiid 7 fatiuiiiis, on saiiilv biittmn, and successively to more; so thatb m\\t\
N. W. Irom C'arib;iiia roiiii, there are '» and 10 fathoms, on oo/.y sand ; at 11 miles, 21
fathoms, oo/e ; and. lastly, at 1-1 miles, ,'i-J fathoms, also on oo/.e. These sonndinjis, iviili
the biMriiiijs of Ai,'iiilu Hill, may serve to direct those who are bound to the (iidf; ub-
serviiii; that so soon as Aj;iiila Hill bears east, they will be entirely free from the shnals
of Cariliaiia I'oiul, ;;iid may sti'cr freely for the (iiiK of Daricii, nearly to Arenas Point,
which lies ,')'^ mile;;; S. Vio ' \V. from that of Caribana; all this part liavinj; a good depit
of v»ater.
(Wl.F or I'KAHA, OK OF NORTH HAPvlEN.— This Gulf, as above stated,
has its entrance bi'lwi en Caribana Point on tiie v.:\M, and Cape Tiburon on the west,
All the (astern and soiitherii coasts of it, to the Ilay of Camhdaria, offer secure an-
ehorane at every season of the year; but the other parts to Cape Tiburon are very wilj
in the season of the hree/.es, and without any siielter, except for small vessels; but a
the season of the Vendavales, when there are lii;iit bree/es, variable winds and rnlms,
you may anchor in any jiartof the (Jiilf without either windorsea to ineommode you.
AKKNAS POlN'J'. — The north and south points of Arenas form n low front of two
uiiles extent, and they bear from each other .^. 1') K. and N. 1')-^ W. These two poinii
form the eastern dyke of Agiiila Laijooii, which extends from thence eastward .'ij' iiiiltj,
and is .'{ miles from iiorili to south, with various low islets in it : this lagoon coininencM
at the southern extremity of Ajiuila Hill, heretofore descriiied.
K lO S.\ Ii A HO. — From Arenas Point southward, the coast trends eastward a distanci
of .'}] miles to the Rio Salailo, and thus forms a tiiiiiiue of sand, projectin<; into the sea,
and which, allliouf^h it is low, has a sullicient depth of water near it, and may be coasted
at less than a mil(>.
From the Rio .^alado the eoast takes a southerly direetion, with some inclinationeast-
ward ; it is all low land, with hillocks at intervals; and the depth on the bank all alon*
it is so re;;ular, and the biittom so clean, that it may be coasted without jiny other care
than due attention to the lead. From the Point and Hill of Cayman, which are distant
from Kio Salado It miles .S. 11° K. the shores to the southward on both sides of the
(lulf, so firasthe princi|)al mouth of the Rio Atrato, are swampy, without even oneliii!
<tn it; and, from the Kio .Snrimiilla, whieh is in the southernmost part of the Gulf. to
the north and west, may be considered as the Delta, where the preat river Atrato or Da-
rien disembogues, 'i'he Hay of Candelaria, which is formed by the swampy land at the
mouths of the river, bears from the Hill of Cayman about S. 49° W. at the distance of
Iv? miles. For navifjatinj; all aloii^ this coast of the bottom of the (Julf, from Cayman
Point on tho east to the Bay of (Candelaria on the west, there needs no other direction
than that of attending to the lead ; nor is there any danger, for a ship may be anchored
wherever ilmay be couvciucut, or necessity may require.
The prim
he til nv.iil y
ihf inHTiiii
linn river In
liiriiiiiiK ill"
ifiilije fill bii.
HMW ;ii|vani
|Mri of till'
liiiiii llii' sea
land.
HAV OF
that tlie jjrea
jiriives, reed'
uniiith or rn
the Little F
borders the
whicli rediic
tViini the .S.
on the soul
fond anchor;
Instruction
liirelnl use o
ihiiins in its i
bunk that sui
Irom .') to set
mid-channel,
have a man i.
cales the ch;
,'i iVct wafer,
CHOCO I
Hay tiie coas
nearly .j milei
this eoast the
tend}' oiitwan
tance I'roin R
distance from
tliiit |)resents
it you have o
and when yoi
voii m;.y and
PEAKS (
coast, and to I
Peak of Tan
peaks of the;
which is ovei
next to it son
isli«:ts
Keys the coas
high, and thei
is a group of
these follow a
half a mile.
half a mill' >
■ and the i>, i t
' this islet ti*^' i
account of its
deros, consist
clcau, with de
from the coas
Three mile
from the coas
lies Gandi Po
coast follows ;
with which, (
names disenib
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST I'li.OT.
489
s liigh and icuMied
((I till' uilier. Th,'
III' Suvanillu, mIucI,
isl lias a l)iiiik lyiaj'
iiiU anil ciiliiii, sliini
iii; to I lie MJ/u ul'tiit
ill lips S. :)!)' W,,
whioli \U'» \U niilti
il Hill ot° 'riirtiigun
W. (rom Siiviinillj
K'lUs 111) (hiiigrr, fj.
Uiiilhi Isl'.inil is Im,
illi very little wai»r
haiiii, ns we have a|.
w, with triTs on n,
III it tijt' coa.it trendi
11- KaR)«' Hill, which
:W' W.; -.111(1 from
Uarieii, bears N.hr-
iig insulated in ihi
la I'oint are nttlieS.
[|i(> coast ; tlieuutrt
II tliR point.
one, at a little dis.
arated tVoin it witl;
the depth iiicroiisfi
(ire ; so that (i iiiilo
11(1 ; at II miles, Jl
lese s(iiiiidiii):.s, ivuli
nil to the (iiiit'; ob-
ree IVoiii the shoals
ly to Arenas I'oim,
ivinj; a good depth
r, as above slated,
ihiiroii on the west.
ofler seeure an-
hiiron are very wilJ
nail vessels; but ,!i
winds and CHJms,
ineoiiiinode you.
a low front of two
These two pninli
eastward Tij' miles,
agoon commences
eastward a distanct
■tinj; into the sea,
iiid may be coasted
lie inelinationeast-
the bank all alonj
out any other care
I, which are distant
both sides of the
thoiit even one hill
irt of the Gulf, to
river Atrato or Da-
>waiiipy land at the
. at the distance ot
iulf, from Cayman
no other direction
1 may be anchored
The principal, indeed the nn\r. object for eiiterinc into the (iulf of Darirn, can only
he III nv.iil yourself of the tacililies which the Kiver Atrato allords tor eoiidiictiii|{ into
(he Ulterior the imports, and wilhdrawiiiK therefrom the exports : thus, notwithsiaiidiiig
ilim river branches inio the seu by many months, extending over a ^reat distance, and
liiriiiitiK the swaui|)y and inundated lands jiisr spoken ol, yet only ei^lii ol them are navi-
K^lile lot boats and launches; and of ihe whole of them, not o'le of them oilers the
!(,ime iidvantanes as the Liltle Kaysan, or I'lieasant. which discharges into the southern
|),iri of the bay nf Candelaria: inasmuch, as shijis aiicliorinj; there, will he sheltered
Iriiin ibe sea, and be near to the channel by whii h their iVeij^hts are to be conveyed in-
land. •
HAV ok CANDKIiAIUA. — The coasts of the Hay of Candnlaria are so very low,
lli;il ilie greater part of them are inundated, even at low water, and bordered with man-
jtriives, reeds, and rushes, so that only the N. W. point of the 'lay appears dry. The
uiiiuth or entrance of the bay from the .\. W. point to the .S. K. where the bram h called
the Liiile Faysaii falls into it, is about',' miles in width; but there is a sand bank which
borders the whole circuit of it, and extends out a mile to the.S. K. from the .\. W. point,
which reduces the entrance to scarcely a mile in breadth. This shoal also stretches uli'
fniMi the S. E. point, bu' only to a cable's lenjjth and a half; within the bay it narrows
on the south shore, but widens considerably on the N. W. side. 'J'hc clear space of
(food anchorage is about a mile and a third each wjiy.
Instruction.^ for rntfrint!; CANUKLAKFA 15A\ . — To enter this bay, caution and a
ciirel'iil use of the lead are necessary, taking can- not to jjet into less than 17.^ or 17 fa-
thoms in its entrance, nor 1-' within it. This caution is very necessary, Ix-cause the sand
hank that surrounds it is so steep, that it shoals immediately from Hi to .'j faihoms, and
Irnin .') to gettine aground. Hy taking care to preserve the proper depth, you will go in
mul-channel, at about 4 cables' length from the .S. K. jioint. It will also be advisable to
have a man upon the lookout, on one of the yard arms, as the color of the w.nter indi-
cates the channel and the shoals. On the Bar of the Little Faysan branr h. there are
;{ feet water, and the tides rise "J feet, throughout the whole of the (iulf of Darien.
CHOCO POINT AND ANCIIOKACiK.— From the N. W. point of ( '.uulelaria
Hay the coast continues low, and covered with mnns;ioves, in the dnec tiiui i>\ N. ]()'' W.
nearly .j miles, to Revesa I'oint ; thence W. N. \V. 7 miles, to the Tarena Keys ; on all
this coast the shallow bank, thrown up by the waters from the mouths of the river, ex-
tend.- outward. The principal mouth of the Atrato lies at about one ihiid of the dis-
tance iVoin Kevesa I'oint towards Tereiia Keys; and it is necessary lo kii p at two miles
distance from the coast. Kevesa Point, which is also called T'linco INiiiii, tonus a curve
th;it presents a fine anchoraa;e. well sheltered from the north winds and iieci'.es; to enter
it you have only to keep about H cable's length distant from the south sid;' of the jioint ;
.mil when you are abreast of it, or to the westward of it somewhat farther into the bay,
voii iu„y anchor in 1." or 14 fatlioiiis.
PEAK.*'^ OF TAKENA, CANDELAHl A, T)K CAHO, AND GANDI.— On this
coast, and to the southward of the Tarena Keys, will be seen a mount, ni nill, called the
Peak of Tarena, whence lies a very lofty ridge, extending to the N. W. cf the various
peaks of these heights, the southernmost is called f'aiidelaria, and the iioriherniiiost,
which is over Cape Tiburon, is called Pico de Cabo, or Peak of the Cape; the peak
next to it southward is named (inndi.
ISLETS TIJTIIMATES, TA.MBOR AND BOLANDEROS.— From Tarena
Keys the coast runs about N. 28° W. a distance of 10 miles, to the Bolanderns : it is all
high, and there are various islets lying along it. The fust of these, named Tutumates,
is a group of three islets, very clean, and lying about half a mile from the coast. To
these follow another named Tanibor, which is separated from the coast rather tnore than
half a mile. Although this is clean, it must be borne in mind, that at the distance of
half a mili^ N. N. E. from it, there is a rocky shoal which shows itself, between which
J and the is t there is a passage; but it is always better to pass outside, 'i'o the west of
I this islet ti, coast forms a bay called Puerto Escondido, or Hidden Harbor, which on
account of us small capacity, admits small vessels only. To Tambor follow the Bolan-
deros, consisting of a larger islet, with other small ones at its south nait : all these are
clean, with deej) water around them, and do not lie farther than three (]uartcrsof a mile
from the coast.
Three miles N. 55° W. from the Great Bolandero, and at the distance of lialf a mile
from the coast, lies the Pitoii Islet, which is very clean ; from thence N. 65'^ W. (> mik .
lies (Jandi Point, forming a beachy bay, named Tripo (iandi. FromGandi Point iUv-
coast follows about N. N. VV. for the distance of 1 j mile, to the point of the River Gar,(it;
with which, Gandi Point forms the bay of Estola, or Gandi, where the livers of thesa
names disembogue : this bay is of little importance.
62
490
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Hi
At N. 16"^ W. fij miles from Tiandi Point, lies the Tonel Islet, very clean with deep
water, especially on its eastern side : it is rather more than a mile from the coast. From
this islet to Capo Tilmron it is G},- miles N. 42^ W. All this coast from the Tarcoa
Keys to Cape Tiburon, is high and steep, with deep water: but it is very wild in the sea-
son of the bree/.es : for which reason it is most prudent to avoid it dnrinu these seasons,
«nd to keep on the eastern side of the (Julf, as it not only affords security and the ;ir.
commodation of anchorage in every part, but, as there is no inconvenience arising from
the sea, it is much more easy for working to windward ; and much time may be saved
by it.
CAPE TIBURON.— This cape, as before said, is the N. W. boundary of the Gulf;
it is rocky, high, and scarped ; and projects out in a N. E. direction forming an isth-
mus, on the south and west sides of which are two little harbor.<. The first of these i,
so narrow as to be of ViuU- importance; the second is larger, and called Miel Harbor, m
which there is good holding ground, and the greatest deptii i.-s from IJ to 12 fathoms. or]
sand and clay.
POINT AND PEAK OF CARRETO.— Thirteen miles N. 6-2o W. from Cape Ti.
buron is the Point and Peak of Carreto, which is the eastern point of a little harbor o!
thac name. IJeiweenthe tw(» points a bay is ''ormed of about 21 miles in depth, whitii
k called the Bay of Anachucuna; ail its sli re is beachy to the foot of the high moun-
tains, without any remarkable point. In the N. W. part of this bay, and at the distance
of two miles to the southward of Point Carreio, is a little harbor, called Puerto Escod-
dido, fit for sinu^silurs only.
CARRETO HARBOR.— The Point and Peak of Carreto are, as before stated, j|
the eastern part of the Harbor of that name, the western part being formed by a cluster
of islets of various si/.es; and between these points the greatest distance is a mile andi
half, but the narrowest part of the mouth is only a mile. This harbor is of a semicir-
cular form, and extends inward about a mile : the depth of water in it is not less than 3'
fathoms, nor more than 8 fathoms. Notwithstanding these good qualities, it is, on thf
contrary, open to the N. E. breezes and the seas they raise, and has little shelter froir,
the N. W.; it is, therefore, only of use during the season of the calms and variab!-
winds.
CARRETO SHOALS. — To the north of this harbor, at the distance of a long niiip
there are two little shoals near each other bearing N. E. and S. W. with 5,r fatlioins ovf;
them, on rocky bottom, and near them from 20 to 2a fathoms ; with fresh breezes theses
breaks over them.
Seven miles N. 48- W. from the point and peak of Carreto is Punta Escoces, or .Scois
Point: on this bearing there are clusters of isit ts of ditlcrent sizes, extending out tfiN
N. E. a long mile from Punta de los Islotes: to this point, which is three miles south-
eastward from I'unta Escoces, the coast is high and scarped ; but from thence to I'un
ta Escoces, it is lower, with a beach.
CAROLINE BAY. — I'unta Esccces is the S. E. of a bay, named Caroline T5ay,ih?
great islet of Oio, or Santa Catalina, being the N. W. point, bearing from the foriii?i
N. 40° \V., distant I miles ; and from this line of direction, the bay falls inward aboiii
one mile and two thirds. In the S. E. part of this bay is Puerto Escoces, or Escor-liilo
(Scottish or Hidden Harbor.) which extends inwiird in that direction nearly three mile*,
and forms good shelter. There are some shoals in it, which are represented in i lie par
ticular Plan of the Harbor, by which any vessel may run in for the anchonige, wiierf
they will find4i, .5',, U, and 7 fathoms water, on sandy bottom.
GRANDE DEL ')RO, SAN ACOUSTIN, AND PIEDRAS ISLET.-Thf
Isia Grande del Oro is high, and at one mile and eight tenths to the south of it, there
is a smaller island, called .San Augustin ; an<l on tli(> same bearing, a little more thani
cable's length from San Augustin, is Piedras Islet, which doubtless takes its narael'roiii
the many rocks with which it is surrounded.
Between Piedras Islet on the north, the west point of Aglatomate River on the south.
and that of San Fulgencia to the S. W. isformett the Ensenada, or Bay of (Jaroliiia.or
Caledonia, and the channel of Sasardi.
CALEDONIA BAY'. — The Bay of Caledonia is, strictly speaking, ff^rtned bv ihf
points already mentioned, which bear from each other N. 2.'3^ W. and contrary, distant
one mile. This bay is clean, and has a good (lepih of water; the greatest part of it'
shore is beach, and near the middle of it disembogues the River Aglaseniqna. ThPlmii:
or point of it;\n Fulgencia is salient, scarped, and clean; and it also has a little liiulitai
its western pan, with little depth of water, bordered i)v mangroves and various kevs.
SASARDI CHANNEL, S. E. ENTRANCE.— Betw?er. San Fulgencia Point, the
Great Oro Island, Piedras Islet, and the Mangrove Keys which lie to the west of them.
the Channel of 3aGardi is formed; whose S. E. entrance from edge to edge, is about
fotir cables' length wide, a little more or less, and with a depth of 8 to 11 fathoms, ou
ooze; nn(
dras Islet,
of sea bet
mile from
These 1
a good (le
ble, becau
and less ri
SASAI
[y}" W. fr
islands, w|
to the N
chanael is
sardi, witl
and is, th
wish to en
Bptwec
of .Sasard
said eastei
ireinity of
ul a utile
with little
The fro
the shore.
bears N. 5
ous open b
reefs. ( }t\
shut by re
narrowest
The Isl
ble points,
more than
are scarpe(
is ia latitu
W. from tl
which is lo
depth of 7
inences th»
and reefs, f
channels, s
tiiccoast is
the chart o
which it ct
^ The cha
Zainbogan(
Arevalo, M
or less free
A ship, :i
N. W. 2.5 11
be to the n
5 miles. \
reefs, and a
pass at a gr
GULF <
of the Kola
is low, and
tends N. an
tance to thi
From Pc
some reefs,
this, extemi
ward of th(
Mulatas, an
To run ii
•8 to the S.
south of it, I
Bias.
i
(
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
491
very clean with deep
om the coast. From
)ast from the Tareni
i very wild in the sea-
(luring these seasons,
I security and the ;ir.
venience arising from
h time may be saved
oundary of the Gnlf;
•tion forminu an isih.
The first of thespn
■ailed Miel Harbor,in
II 11 to 12 fathoms. (.>:
)Vjo W. from Tape Ti-
lt of a little harbor 0!
miles in depth, whidi
lot of the high moiin-
ly, and at the distance
called Puerto Escon-
re, as before stated, ai
ig formed by a cluster
listance is a mile and:
liarbor is of a semicir-
in it is not less than 3'
qualities, it is, on th*
has little shelter fror,
le calms and variabi:
istance of a long niiif
^ with 5,T fathoms nvp;
h fresh breezes the sea
inta Escoces, or Scot's
I's, extending owt tn.\.
I is three miles souih-
. from thence to I'li
med Caroline TJay, t
rinji froiTi the forni?i
bay falls inward abniii
scoces, or Kscon'lido
on nearly three miles,
represented in the par-
the anchonige, where
RAS ISLET.-Thf
the south of it. there
ij, a little more thani
ss takes its narael'roiii
te River on the sniilli,
or Hay of Carolina. or
cakine;, ff^nned by the
;ii)d (contrary, liistani
i(" ijreatest part of it<
jlascniqua. The Irnii:
,s(> has a little hii'lital
s and various keys,
1 Fula;encia Point, the
e to the west of them, j
edge to edge, is abmi!
if 8 to 1 1 fathoms, ou !
ooze; and farther in, from 7 to <) fathoms; as also between the edge of the bank off Pie-
dras islet, and the Bay of Caledonia, the depth is from ().i to 14 fathoms; and the space
of sea between this bay and Puerto Eseoces, is of a good depth ; but at ft. 55° K. a short
mile from Piedras Islet, the sea breaks when the bree/.e is fresh.
These harbors are equally .sheltered from the winds and seas of botli seasons, and have
a good depth of water ; but the channel of S-.'sardi and Bay of Caledonia are prefera-
ble, because you can either enter or sail out from them with all winds, with more facility
and less risk than you can either into or out of Puerto Escoces.
SASARDl CHANNEL, N. W. ENTRANCE.— At the distance of 4^ miles, N.
.OS" W. Irom the east end of the (ireat Oro Island, is the west extrenuty of two larger
islands, which, with the reefs, shoals, and multitude of smalb-r islets extending thence
to the N. W., form, with the coast, the channel of Sasardi. The N. W. mouth of this
channel is formed by the said western point ol the two large islands and the front of Sa-
sardi, with an opening of three quarters of a mile: this channel has many shoals in it,
and is, therefore, of no utility ; neither is there any population near it. Those who
wish to enttr it must have a free wind for that purpose.
Between the pastern point of (treat Oio Island and the N. W. mouth of the channel
of Sasardi, some reefs project ont, with two islets at the extremity, which bear from the
said eastern point of (Jreat Oro N. 'J5' \V. two miles distant, and (rom the S. E. ex-
tremity of the two large islands already mentioned, about N. E. Also, at the distance
of a mile and a half to the westward of the front or point of Sasardi, there is a bank
with little water on it.
The front of Sasardi is projecting, round, scarped, and surrounded l)y ;eefs close to
the shore. From the most salient part of this tiont. the S. E. par? oi ilie Isia de Pinos
bears N. 5" W., distant two mib's; and in tlie intermediate space the coast ibrms vari-
ous open bays, of little importance, the points of which are searfied, and surrounded by
reefs. Off the west part of the said island is the Cienagaof Navaijandi. with its mouth
shut by reefs; which, with the island, form a channel nt two cables' length wide in the
narrowest part, with a depth of from 1.'; to 5 fathoms water.
The Isia de Pinos is high, with a hill extending along it, on which rise two remarka-
ble points, covered with wood : its greatest extent is N. E. by N. and S. W.by S. rather
more than a mile, and its greatest breadth is scarcely a mile : its N. E. and south sides
are scarped, anel bordered by reefs, very near the shore. The N. E. point of this island
is in latitude 'P 1' ;Ui", and longitude 77° 50' 10 ". At the distance of t>vo miles N. by
W. from the north end of the Isle of Pines, is the Isia de Pajaros, cr Bird's Island,
which is low, narrow, covered with brushwood, and surrounded by reefs, which have a
depth of 7 or H fathoms close to their edges, on rocky bottom. From this point com-
mences the immense Archipelago of the Mulatas, composed of islands, keys, shoals,
and reefs, forming between them and the main land many anchorages and well sheltered
channels, .secure in all weathers, and torininatiiig at Punta de San Bias. The interior of
the'coast is a high mountain range, with notable ]>eaks, whose situations are exhibited in
the chart of the coast, and may serve as marks to liirect to the various anchoiages, iScc.
which it comprises.
The channels which are formed in Miis space, are (hose of Pinos, Mosquitos, Cuiti,
Zambogandi, Punta Brava, Cocos, Rio de Monos, llatones, Playon Crande, Puyadas,
Arevalo, Mangles, Moron, ('aobos, Ilolandes, Chichime, and San Bias. These are more
or less free, as may be seen by inspection on the chart.
A ship, at the distance of one league to the northward of Pajaros Islet, and steering
N. \V.25 miles, and N. fi5° W. .'{8,V mile.'., will pass clear of all these dangers, and will
be to the north of the v^asternmost keys of the Holandes (Iroup, at the distance of i^ or
5 miles. With these courses you will, in the beginning, pass at 1| or 12 miles outside the
reefs, and afterwards at 4 and 5,\ miles; but it remains at the option of the navigator to
pass at a greater distance, if more convenient.
4 GULF OF SAN BLAS. — Seventeeii miles to the westward of the easternmost kevs
I of the Holandes Group lies Point San Bias, in lat. ')° ."{4' .'Ui ', and long. 7')^' 1' 24". 'it
l is low, and forms the N. E. boundary of the (iulf of San iilas, the mouth of which ex-
tends N. and S. to the anchorage of Mandinga U miles, and from that line an equal dis-
tance to the westward. Its coasts are low, with mangroves which advance into the sea.
From Point San Bias eastward, to the distance of a mile and three quarters, extend
i some reefs, with various keys, the easternmost of which is called Cayo Frances. From
, this, extending to the S. W. and westward, there are twelve other keys ; and to the east-
ward of them are many banks and islands, which make part of the Archipelago of the
Mulatas, and form various channels.
To run into and anchor in the Gulf of San Bias, whether it be in Bahia Inglesa, which
is to the S. W. of Point San Bias, or at Mandinga, which, as before said, lies to the
south of it, the most commodious passage is by the cbanuel of Cbicbiiue aud that of Saa
Bias.
'^
492
nLlJNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
THE CHICHI.ME CJHANNKL is formed to the west by tlie keys off Poini f?,in
Bias, to the east by the leef and j;roup of keys ofChiehiine, and to the south by anoihcr
group surrounded by reefs, which some call (Jayos de Linion or [jemon Keys.
TllK CHANN'KIj of SAN HLAS is formed by the Cayos de Ijimon to the 8. K
and those of San Klas to the N. W. The first is three miles in extent between the steci
edges of the reefs ; atid the second one mile and three (piarters.
DIRKCTIONS FUR FNTKRINCJ TIJE GULF OF SAN BLAS.— To enter
this gulf it is necessary to open the moutli of the channel of Chichinie, until you are n|,
the true meridian of the second islet, counting from the westward to Cayos de Ljuhh,
from which situation steer south towards it, until abreast of, or rather before you get .,
far to the south as ( "ayo Frances ; then steer S. 50° W. through the middle of San lil,,
Channel, which, as already noticed, is a mile and three quarters wide between the m ,
of the west south-westernnu)st islet of the Lemon Keys, called (iallo, or tlie Cock, xa
the reef which extends to the southward frym Cayo Frances ; thus directing yourseli';
the anchorage, whether it be to that on the north side of the gulf, or in Mandinga Hhv
To proceed to the latter, the keys which lie to the north of Mandinga Point will sen
for a mark. Of these, the outermost, called ("abras, lies a mile from the point; ami ;
should be noticed, that at nearly a mile N. \{)° W. from Cabras there is a little sa:,iii
key, to which a berth must be given, and there is a bank, with 1 and \\ fathom oni
lying N. W)' W., distant a long mile and a half from Cabras Islet. The passage isU
tween this bank and the little sandy key. The anchoiage of Mandingn is sheltered, ;ii,i
has depth sullicient for any class of vessels. In the gulf, and extentling out from (hi
bottom of it to the distance of .'ij miles, there are various islets, keys, and banks, i|v
easternmost ol' which is called Cayo Maceta. To all ol' these a berth must be given, r
desirous of going far into the gulf.
HOfi A N I)!:S CllANNKL.— This is the largest of all the channels that are lorm^
by the Mulatas Islands. Its mouth is formed on the east by the western extreiniiv.
the reels ot'tlie Holandes (iroup, and on the S. W. by Icacos Key. Tlie dislancelror.
one Ley to the other is -ij' miles N. oo^ E., and S. 55° W., and the least depth imb
channel is IJ fathoms, on a bottom of sand ; but W. N. W. from Holandes Key, i(tik»
distance of a little more than 1' mile, there is a shoal, which extends half a mile M.ji;:
S., with () and {)\ fathoms (hi it, over rocks. The sea breaks over it when there is bt;
little swell. It may i)c passed either on the east or west side, but it will be always best:
pass to tlie eastwaril of it, ami near to the reels of the Holande.. (iroup, the breiikcrsk
which will serve as marks. Proceed afterwards toward the east part of Icacos Key, anl
give it a berdi in passing. This key or island is of firm land, covered with hicli u'on
and nniricd from the abundancf! of icacos trees growing tm it. From the meiiiliati,
lea .OS Key. on its south side, the direction of the Holandes Channel is about S, ;.'
W., to tlie !)uttoin of the tiulf ot' San Bias. It is clean, and has a depth o, iil to .
fathom*;, nil oo/,y bottom, with a breadth of 2\ to 3 miles, between groups, deiiiclit
keys, and reels, but free and commodious to turn in, in case of necessity, towards tl.:
anchorages ahcadv do-jcribcd.
FROM THE Point of SAN BLAS westward.— At N. 49 W.. r;ii.lifr
more t!i:in half a mile from Point .San Bias, is the north part of its (ront, low, andci.
vered with mangroves ; and in the intermediate suace is a little key, called Piedias, at:
other shoals, connected with Cayo Frances. ,\t the distance of a <]narterofa iiiijp'
34 ' W. from the nnrtli point of San Bias, is a key namiMl Cayo Perro, al.'^o uniii'il
tlie reel's extending westward from Cayo Frances, and wliich terminate at an island lyn..
in front of C'iiieau'a, a mile and a quarter farther west.
From Perro Key the coast continue-; nearly 10 miles S. 88° W. to Cocos Point, f!
the east side of tlie mouth of Kscribanos Harbor. I'lie intermediate coast continiin
low, with reefs along shore, and somewhat of a bay. The most visible objectj on it ait
Magote Point, which is small, a little salient, and has a hillock on it; that of Cerio Co-
lorado, wliich is round, scarped, and projects out but little ; and tliat of Playa Colorailo.
which is round, and surrounded by reefs, which extend out to a cable's length.
POINT ESCRIBANOS. — Coco.s Point advances into the sea, and from it the poirl
of Escrilianos bears S. HO ^ W., one mile and a third, and in this space a bay is t'ornied.
in the middle of which is Escribanos Harbor, extending inward to the south, tVomi:«
mouth, half a mile. 'J'his harbor is very shallow, having no more than 1 and Ufiitlioiw
water. Without, on both sides, there are reefs with very little water on them; andii
the channel, which is formeil by them, there are from 3j to 6 fathoms.
ESCRIBANOS SHOALS. — To the norih-eastward of the mouth of this harbor ar?
the shoals named the Escribanos. They are two in number, and are composed olrefli
with very little water on them, and lying near each other. On the reef nearest to tlie
coa.st is an islet Iving rather less than two miles from Cocos Point. This reef extend)
a mile from W. S. W. to E. N. E. The other liea about W. N. W. from the laiil
; islet or rock
I'atlioiiis wa
hi the chan
'J to 12 lath
EscribaiK
miles. Thi
thoiiis watei
l()to:U fath
as a guide ;
channel bet
ter, on sand
from E.scrib
TERR IN
lies Terrin I
are distant f
bra Islet, di:
on to the w
which is so
Point Chagi
The rangt
of Porto He
do, being ra
■ tant full 7 11
I and iJank.
I top is large,
i Pescador
1 point is sun
' mile to the '
i tween that p
Between ]
Point, on tin
tance of 4 lo
extends in n
torn of the br
this bay, lies
as is also the
is small, and
clear dejjth i
San Cristova
it extend out
From Poi
called Juan i
of half a mill
Pozo, and bt
fathoms, on ;
Point San
the Hney Sh
and the reefs
clay ; and 9,
Vibora .Shoal
and scarped.
The Point
^ also high, sc
1 several islets
I scarped, and
which the fa
islet, there a
ntul also to tl
lastly, to the
mile, lies the
these islets ;
dor there are
Manzanill
tenths of a i
the strait bet
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
493
s keys off Poitil S,in
the south by anoihcr
fmon Krys.
liinion to the S, K.
ent between the Mn>,
B LAS.— To enter
lime, until you ;irei.],
to Cayos de liiium,
ler belbre you get ■•!
he middle of H-.m li|,„
ide between tlie m .
dlo, or the Cock, n,;
s (hrectinj; yourseli;;
or in ^L^nllin};i^ h;iv
linga Point will sen-
oui the poini; and :
there is a httle sainii
and 1,V fathom oni
. The passage islif
lingn is sheltered, an
itending out from ih'
kevs, and banks, ih-
erth must be given,]
mnels that are forHih
western exfremliv,
'. 'i'he distance Iror.
the least depth inif/
Holandes Key, ;it t^
rids half a mile iN.ar,:
r It when there is k
will be always be^l•
rroup, the brenkcrsf
trt of Icacos Kpv, ;r.
end with liitili udn
rom the nieiiilian.
innel is about S, ;',
a depth o,' vil to .
en (.'roups, tletiiclit
ecessity, towards il.;
At N. 49° W., ratfe
s lr(ir)t. low, and ft'
, called Piedras, ar;
» (jnarter of a mileN
Perro, also uniicil'
inate at an ishiml Kn,
to Cocos Puini,
(iiate coast contiiiii
sible objectj on it;i
It ; that of Ceriu Ci- ^
at of Playn Colorado
iblc's lenjtifli. I
and from it the point
pace a bay is formed,
o the south, frnmii*
han 1 and Ufatlioiii*
aler on them ; andii
jnis.
uth of this harbor art
ue composed ofre«fi
le reef nearest toth»
This reef extendi ^
N. W. from the said '
J
islet or rock, nnd extends nearly a mile from K. to AV. Potli arc stcrp to, \\ ilh ."5 and 4
fatlioms water ; and on the bank are tr(jin d to IJ fathoms, on t;ra\ci and coarse sand.
Ill the channel formed by the south-easternmost shoal and Cocos I'oiiit, there are from
•) to 12 I'athoms, diminishing; to (> and fj fathoms on each side.
Kscribanos IJank l-es ne.uly N. \V. by W. from the shoal of that name, distant .'i.V
miles. This extends N. .')U^ \V., and S.o()- K., nearly 2 miles, and has iVom .') to 8 fa-
thoms water, on rocky bottom. To the northward of its ed!,'e, about 2 tables' lenjith. from
1() to:U fathoms are found. In heavy seas, the water breaks on this bank, which may serve
as a guide; and when it does not, a lookout must be kept at the mast lieads. In the
channel between this bank and the '•"scribanos Shoal, there are from sio 17 fathoms wa-
ter, on sand, gravei, and rock.s. The N. W. part of it lies N. 3*2^ W., distant 8[ miles
from Escribanos Point.
TERiUN POINT.— 'Nineteen and one third miles N. 81^ \V. from Cicos Point,
lies Terrin Point and Pescador Islet. UfMween the former and (^iiiiiiiongo Point, wjiich
are distant from each other 8,', miles, and on the meiidiau of Kscribanos Hank, is Culc-
bra Islet, distant from Culebra Point two thirds of a mile about N. N. W. Following
on to the westward, the point and islet of (|ueiigo are met with. P:.rt Kscondido,
which is somewhat to the westward of this point, is only a little f icnaga. or lauoon.
Point Chaguachagua, and that of Macolla, are thcmost remarkaiilc points on this part.
The range of mountains which extends along this coast, from those ot' Daricii to tliose
of Porto liello, are sufficiently remarkidjle, that railed Cerro de la (Iran Lonia, or (ior-
do, being rather more so than the others. It lies 8. l^V^ W. from Culcbra Islet, dis-
tant full 7 miles, and may serve as a mark for keeping clear of the Escribanos .Shoals
and IJank. This hill is a little higher than the Cordillera, in wliicli it is situated. Its
top is large, and of some extent.
Pescador Islet lies about 2 cables' length N. 4.'P W. l>om Terrin Point, and the
point is surrounded by reefs, which extend a cable's length to the north, and half a
mile to the west, continuing to S. S. W. so as to surround three islets, which lie be-
tween that point and the N. E. point of the harbor of Nombie de Dios.
Between Point Terrin, on the east, and the Islet Martin Pescador and Manzanilla
Point, on the west, the first of which bears from Terrin Point N. bi^ W., .it the dis-
tance of 4 long miles, and the second N. 72° W., r> miles, a great bay is formed, which
extends in nearly :{ miles to the 8. W. and fn the \V. and N. W. 2 miles, to the bot-
tom of the bay of .San Cristoval. At 1'; mile .S. 1') ' W. iVoin the eastern extremity of
this bay, lies the western point of the harbor of Nombre de Dios, suirouiidcd with reefs,
as is also the eastern point, although at this part they extend fartiiot oil". This harbor
is small, and the greatest part of its shores are bordered with ri'cfs ;;nd shallows. Its
clear dejjth is ',){, 4, and 5 tathoms, in the mouth. The other parts of the great bay of
San Cristoval are useless in the season of the breezes, and the reefs from the bottom of
it extend out nearly a mile towards Point San Oisloval.
From Point San Cristoval, distant 2 long cables' length to the N. E., lies an islet,
called Juan del Po/.o, surrounded with rocks; and about S. E. from it. at the dist;uie.e
of half a mile, is a bank named tlie N'ibora. Between this bank and the Islet .luan del
Pozo, and between the latter and Point San Cristoval, there is a depth of '.), 10, and 13
fathoms, on gra^^-l and coarse sand.
Point San Cristoval lies S. 88-" W. .3} miles from Terrin Point : also, from this point
the Buev .Shoal bears N. fiO^ W., distant nine tenths of a mile. Between this shoni
and the reefs of Ttrrin Point there are from 9 to I'i fathoms water, on rock, sand, and
clav ; and 9, I'i, and 14 fathoms, on ground of the same (luality, between the Buey and
Vibora .Shoals. The coast between Point San Cristoval and that of Manzanillo is high
and scarped.
The Point of Manzanillo is the northernmost of all the coast of Porto Bello. It is
also high, scarped, and projecting out, with two huiumoeks on it. Near this point are
several islets and a shoal. The greatest of these, named Manzanillo Islet, is liigh and
scarped, and lies four fifths of a mile to the east. It has three farailons to the north, of
which the farthest out is distant a long cable's length. At S. ,30° W. from the same
islet, there are threesniall islets, surrounded with reefs, which extend N. E. and S. W.;
and also to the east there is another small one, ''istant about a cable and a half; and,
lastly, to the N. N. E. of the said Manzanillo Islet, at the distance of four tenths of a
mile, lies the islet of Martin Pescador, extending about a cable's length N. and S. All
these islets are liigh and scarped, and between those of Manzanillo and Martin Pesca-
dor there are from 10 to 14 fathoms water.
Manzanillo Shoal lies N. W. of ihe point of the same name, at the distance of four
tenths of a mile. It has very little water on it, and 5 and 6 fathoms close to it ; and io
the strait between it and the point there are 13 fathoma water.
494
BLUNT S AMEIUCAJV COAST PILOT.
m
,i'kl
Ih
Among the mountains on fl\i» coast, two are remarkable, nametl Saxino and Nonilir^
de Dios, and which may serve as marks for recognizing the liarbor of the last nanic
The first, which is high, terminates in two peaks nt -r each ( ther, a.n" tUe northeaM.
ernmost of them is about S. 'JU' E. from Terrin I'oin* (list j.t nearly 7 miles. That
Nombre de Dios, which is to tiie soutli of the lia b jr, terUiinaies in one peak, and iguj,.
tant from Terrin Point 8 miles S. S. \V.
N. 65° W., at the distance of a mile and a half from lV"ari;:;iiiilIo Point, is fh' l.i:':
^st part of Tambor Islet, which is high, round and scarped, nn.< whi' ii m connected bv
a .eef of two cables' lencth, with the northernniost part of Venados c Bastimentos Jsj.
and. This island is nearly a mile in length, N. E. ;i'id b. W., an-t forms, with ili*
main land, the N. E. channel of IJastimentos Hi 'bor, ilie j^ireutesf i^xtent of which, be
tween the reefs, is one and a half tenth of a mile, with 5 and 5i fathoms water, o[
sand. This island of Bastinicntos is foul on its S. E., S., and S. W. sides; and !k
latter, with Cabra Islet, which lies somewhat to the southward of west, forms the N.W,
channel, the narrowest part of which, between the reefs, is three tenths of a mile wijf
with from .'5,y to y fathoms, on mud. The harbor of Bastimentos is of little importance
although sheltered, with a depth of .'U to 7 fathoms. All its shores are bounded Iji
reefs; and the (Mistomary anchorage is to the S. W., S., and S. E. of the somhc;
sandy point of IJastimentos Island.
GARROTE HARBOR.— At S. 51" W. from the highest part of Tambor Islet, ,i;
the distance of "J.^ miles, lies the month of (ianote Harbor, formed by the main l;imlio
the south, by (treat Garrote Island in the east, and by Pelado Island, and other islM;
which follow to the westward one mile and a half, to the mouth of the IJotpieronev
The mouth of (iarrote Harbor is scarcely three tenths of a mile wide between the mv
to the west of (Jreat Garrote Island and l*el:i'Io Islet. Its first direction is from iioris
to south, and afterwards to .S. E., with a deptn of from 6i fathoms in the interior ofili<
harbor, to I'i an<i IH in the mouth, on mud. jietween this harbor and that ol Rastinm
tos, rises the Hill of (iarrote. It is of middling height, and its top terminates in a pesl
at the distance of seven tenths of a mile from the coast.
At the distance of ;U miles S.by E. from the little bay of Garrote, is the Monntainr
Capiro or Capira, high, and almost always covered with clouds. This mountdin i
situated nearly east from vhe city of San Felipe of Porto Bello.
At a short distance to the southward of Capira is the Sierr;- or Mountain Ridge (
Llorona, extending nearly east and west. It is the higliest ;)( all on the eoas. ofl'nri;
Bello. On the eastern part of its top it appears as if cut <'own vertically, formiiiji
peak called the Campana, or the Bell. From this peak the ridge descends gradually i
the west, to near the Peak of (luanche. The appearaiice of this ridge is such, that :
cannot be mistaken tor any other. In clear weather it may be seen at the distance f
45 miles ; but in the season of the fresh breezes it is generally covered with ha/e; ;*:
in the season of the vandavales and variable winds it may oiien be seen between 8 and"
in the morning, and 4 and 5 in the afternoon ; but in the rfs). of the day it is covered witt
clouds.
The Lavandera Shoal lies N. (i^ E. seven tenths of a iiiili' tVom the north e:<trpnii!i
of Pelado Islet, and N. i^5'- W,, <?istant one mile, from ("abra Islet, at the mouth ol'Ji.i;
timentos Harbor. This shni'
7^ and ') fathoms close to a
f rock, with very little water on it, and steep to, «i;::
n which the sea breaks, The channels between,:
and Cabra and Pc'i.ido Islets ' v - i depth of from 14 to 17 fathoms, on mud.
BOQUE RONES POINT AND ISLETS— S. 64^ W. from the highest part ci
Tambor Islet, at the distance of three luiles and eight tenths, lies the point of Humit
Tones, which is salient, high and scarped ; and tVom it, almost on tlie opposite beariii;
that is, N. 64° E., there are 5 islets, called the Boquerones, which extend out about"
cables' length. Here terminate the reefs and islets which extend westward from Peladi,
CASIQIIE HILL. — Boquerones Point has to the south, at a long mile's di,staiice,
a hill, named Casique, which terminates in a point, and is of middling height. Jt may
serve as a mark for keeping clear of the Farallon Sucia, or Foul Rock, which lie.<.V
^3° W. nearly "3 miles from Boquerones Point. The Foul Farallon is at the wcsteiii
of two groups of islets and shoals, which from S. W. to N. E. extend six and a lii
tenths of a mile, forming a cliannel between both, with 4 to 6 fathoms water. Tin
north-easternmost islet, or farallon, bears N. 88° W. from the highest part of Tambo;
Islet, at the distance of nearly 4 miles ; and in this space there are from 16 to 30fathoni)
water, on clay and sand ; and 16, 21, L'2, and 25 fathoms, between the said farallon, tht
islets of the coast, and the Lavandera Shoal.
DUARTE ISLETS.— Three miles S. 69° W. from Boquerones Point, lies the norili
end of the Faarte Islets, which are 4 in numbec, and extend S. 25° E.and N.2o° W.sis
tenths of a mile. From the north-easternmost one a reef extends a cable's length in the
ime (!ircctif
cables lengll
Iroin that of
straits there
' roast 15 high
,iiif. Tnd is 3U
[ rocks.
At the di.sti
Islets, i.s Dra
coast IS high
and l)oidered
(entli.s of a m
RURTO I
capability of
entrance, whi
on the south
N. by W. 'J
rather more t
W. From tl
mangroves at
reefs and roc
length ; and
vaiices 2j cal:
from the city
■ and 1 \ fathor
minishing ret
by warping or
anchorage is
on clay and s
the little shoE
The reefs c
Ventura, the I
point of the s;
all connected
mile, lies the
middle that a]
W., at the di;
dina Shoal.
and the other
aroiuiil it, am
water, on cla;
At three fit
Point Fames
ter on it, on a
the channel b
on clay.
Fresli Walt
lets descend >
from that whi
cording to tin
of San Geron
To the sou
or (Jove of Bi
I To enter P
I approach the
' hlo's length t(
but never att
Drake, steer
ward in that (
! If bound iti
Buenaventun
.,; N. E. and m
i nearer the no
3 FROM P<
1 nearly 15 mi
1 ,,,„.,:«„ ...I.:
I
arremos, whii
BLUNT\S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
495
I Saxinn and Noniliri.
lor of the last nrfn.f
■, aiiil t'.ie nonheiiM.
riy 7 miles. Tliai
one peuk. ind !>.;.,
!o Point, is fhr- hi:*;
'hi' II is connected bv
IS 0.' Biisliinentos Isj.
I anfl forms, with ili*
t oxtent of which, b«
5| fathoms water, o:
5. W. sides; iind lU
vest, forms the N. W
[enths of a mile wide
s of little importance.
Iiores are bounded In
S. E. of the south (■
n of Tambor Islet, a;
d by the main hmdn
sland, and other 'h\^\^
1 of the Boquerones
'ide between the rtci*
irection is from iiurtr
in the interior of il:»
and that ol Hastinm
3 terminates in a peai
te, is the Mountain r:
I. This mountdin i
)r Mountain Ridjec
on the eoas. of I'nm
vertically, forminji
descends gradually it
ridge is such, that i:
een at the distance c:
vered with haze; m
seen between 8 and"
da^ it is covered wi:;.
n the north p;<trpniii>
, at tlie moulii ul'ii.iv
I it, and steep to. wr.
channels between.;
n, on mud.
fi the highest pari c;
the point of n(}(iiit
tlie opposite beanii;
h extend out ahoui'
vestward from Pelade.
long mile's distance.
iling height. It may
Rock, which liesN
lion is at the west ai
extend six and a hall
fathoms water. Tlit
;hest part of Tamboi
from iGtoHOfalhonii
the said farallon, th!
s Point, lies thennrihl
'E.andN.25°W,sn
cable's length in tL: I
ime di'-ection. The snuthernmost of these islets is separated a liltle tnore Mian two
cables length frotn the Point of Duarte on the main land to the .southward of it; ami
IroMi that of Sabanilla, which bears N. 04'' K. nearly half a niile. Between the two
straits there is a depth i.; '"r' .i| fallioms, close to the islet, to !.'>. The intermediate
-"i;r,r ii high and scarped, with some bays. The PoMit of .losef Pobre extends farthest
Hit, nnd is surrounded with rocks and reefs. Sabanilla Point has .i so a reef, and some
rocks.
At the di.■^tance of two long ?7)iles .S. liP W. frou l',. iu»rtliern',',)st paif cf Duaitn
Islets, is Drake's Point, wliic.'i is the N. \V. point of Porto Bello. Thi; ;; termediate
coast IS high and scar|)c I, with a little liariior. called fyeon, of very little inij)ortance,
and bordered with reels, which lerminate to the N. N. \V. at a little farallon, distant fou.
tenths of a mile from its mouth.
PORTO BKLLO, OH POIITO VKFiO.— The name of this poit aptly defmes its
rapahilily of receiving a;i(l acconnnodiiting ships of every class. The widest part of its
entrance, which is between Drake's Point (m the north, and the Islet «if Huenaventura
on the south, is one mile and one lifth ; and these Ix-ir from each other S. by E. and
N. by W. The narrowest jiart between Todo Fierni Poiitt and that of Famesio, is
rather more than half a mile wide, and these lie in the direction of S. 'J^ K. and N. 2'^
W. From the last mentioned points the harbor extends inward E. N. E. 1 ', mile to the
mangroves at its bottom. The north shore is clean ; but from vhe south shore some
reefs and rocks, with very little water on them, stretch o(T to between 1 and 1;', cable's
length; and in the bottom or eist part of the harbor there is a sand bank, whi<;h ad-
vances 21 cables' length from the mangroves towards the west ; and also at N. 2b ^ W".
from the city mole, one and a half tenth of a mile, there is a very little sand bank, with 1
; and U fathom water on it. The rest of the harbor is clean, and sulliciently deep, di-
minishing regularly from lb to H fathoms. Ships of the line ought to enter this harbor
by warping or towing, because there are regularly either head Windsor calms. The best
anchorage is to the N. W. of the Battery of Santiago de la (lloria, in ') or 10 fathonis,
on clay and sand ; but smaller ve.'jsels may go nearer to the city, taking care to avoid
the little shoal already spoken of.
The reefs on the south shore continue to the W. S. W., and W., to the Islet Buena-
ventura, the N. W. jjoint of which bears S. 5')^ \V. three long cables' leiigtii from the
point of the same name; and between tliis islet and the point, there are two smaller ones,
all connected by reefs. S. .'<7 ' \V. trom Drake's Point, at the distance of cne fifth of a
mile, lies the middle of Drake's Islet, which is clean all around, and has a break in the
middle that apjiears to divide it into two parts. From this break to the w(>st, and N. bo^
W., at the distance of three fifths ol a mile, lie the south and tuirtli ends of the Salme-
dina Shoal. The south part consists of rocks above water, over which the sea breaks ;
and the other parts have trom 2 to .'!.} tathoms water, on rocks. There is deep water all
around it, and in the channel between it and the islet there are frotn 11 to 20 fathoms
water, on clay.
At three tilths of a mile south from Drake's Islet, and three and a half tenths west fn nr
Point Famesio, lies the Famesio Shoal, of a triangular form, with :i\ to 5 fathoms wa-
ter on it, on a bottom of rock. There is no passage between it and the coast; but "li
the channel between it and the Salmedina Shoal there are from 10 to 21 fathoms w^t ,
on clay.
Fre.sk Water. — This harbor is surrounded by high hills, from which some rills orrivu--
lets descend on both coasts, and from whence vessels may procure wat' r, particulnilv
from that which runs into the bay to the westward of the Fort of San Fernando. Ac-
cording to the determinations of Brigadier D. .)oa(iuin Franciscc Fidalgo, the Battery
of San Geroniino, at the city, is in latitude '>^ 24' 22" N., and lon.itude V)^ 43' W.
To the southward of Porto Bello, at the distance of a long half mile, is the Enstnado,
>, or Cove of Buenaventura, much bordered with reefs, and consetiuenlly of little use.
I To enter Porto Bello when approaching it from the north-eastward, it is advisable to
I approach the Farallons of Duarte, and from them to steer so as to pass at about a ca-
ible's length to the N. W. of Drake's Islet, by which the Salmedina Shoal will be avoided;
I but never attempt to pass between Drake's Islet and the shore. Having passed tho
Drake, steer to the south and east, to gain the middle of the harbor, and proceed in-
ward in that direction, or rather nearest to the north shore.
I If bound into this Harbor from the southward, pass at about half a mile frotn the Islet
I Btienaventura, and thence towards Drake's Islet, to clear the Famesio Shoal ; then steer
i N. E. and more easterly as the harbor opens; and lastly, run in mid-channel, or rather
I nearer the north side, as before directed.
I FROM PORTO BELLO TO CHAGRES—About S. 50" W. at the distance of
I nearly 15 miles from Drake's Point, is the western extremity of the front of Long-
I arreinos, which, with the north-easternmost of the Islas de Naranjos, or Orange Isles,
w:-^
^'.'^4
*/
496
BLUM's AMERICA^ COAST PILOT.
^1
form a l>;iy in whicli are two crcf^ks, called tliose of Miiias ; tlie Ornnpe ImIps lie N.fii,^
E. al till' distance ot 4',' milts tVoni Lon;;arrcnioM I'niiit. The Minas Creeks are fottiic!
aiiiont; ni;in;;i(ivcs, iuid tlie f sieniirinst (ine «'xtends inward .'{ miles to the S. S. E., is(ji
various Incadtlis, aiiil UsnIioh's are liordered with rcfj'n. The western creek is narriiwtf
atid siiurter; it .fiends inward to the south, rather more than a mile. At the S. K. imr,
of the Uraii^^e Isles, ,vhicli are low, covered with trees, and surrounded with rerj's, tllPr^
is lio aiiciioraije with 4,'., (>, and 7 t'athoms water, on sand.
In the in:ernie(li;iit; part of this coast, Point (Jorda is the most projfctinE. and ilipp
are srvi;ral coves ol little coiiNideration. 'J'o this point the coast is hij;h, with l)ank«r,r
ridi;es, and between it and Hueiiaviiitura Cove, the River (Jnnnchc disenibo(.'ui'.
(Jiianche Ijill bears from Point (iorda N. f^-2° E. distant .'J-,' miles. From I'oint (inrdi
to the .S. W. the coast ^radnally diminishes in lieight, and tlie remainder from the Pnin!
of Ki(t (irande and the (reeks of iSlinas, is a low coast, with manijroves. The Frontor)
of !^oiij;aireMios is likewise low, with mangroves, and bordered with reefx, as are also tSf
points wjiich form the iMinas Creeks; (licsf rrrjs extend somewhat m#rc than a rnhip,
length off, are sleep lo, and at the distance of one third of a mile there are 11 lathoDi!
water, on clay.
.M ANZA N I liLO I'OINT. — From the Fronton of Longarremos, the mangrovpsn
tend to the t^. \\'. ne;uly 1.', mile to tin' Point ot' * iNlan/.anillo, which is also of manarinpi
roiiinl, anil bordered with nrj'i, to tiie distance of a long cable, with a little shval tbn,
distant l> ciblcs Irom it, N. W. I»y JN.
M.WZAiS ILLO IIA KlUJiv is I'ormed between the Lslet of that name to the west, and
the main haul lo the east, extending in nearly 2 miles S. 8. E. from Manzanillo Point:
this llarlior is clean, from J,' to (> fathoms water. The best anchorge for every class oi
vessels is a little to the south of its mouth, and on the east coast, in o fathoms water, on
sand and clay.
Five miles S. 6H° W. from the front of Longarremos is Toro Point, which is the wes;
em point of Naos Harbor, the eastern one being the north end of Manzanillo Island, whict
is distant I'roin Toro Point 2^ miles. Toro Point is salient, high, scarped, and boniere:
with reefs, extending out about two cable's length, f with an islet near them. iNaosci
Navy 11 irbor extends inward nearly 4 miles to the south from the middle of its inouih
its breadth is nearly <'(|iial, narrowing somewhat from two thirds of the said distance; ;
is rlrtni to the parallel (d'Point Limon, with a depth from Jj to Gl fathoms water, on sain
and clay: (Vom Point Liman to the south it is shallow. As this Harbor is open to wiiKJi
fro;n N. E. lo N. VV. round by north, it can be of use in the season of the variable wimii
f»nd calms only.
From Toro Point the coast trends S. (>7" W. nearly 2^ miles to Brujas Point, whirt
is of inodeiate height, and, like the intermediate coast, bordered with rrrfs which extfri
only a short distance out, but sniiouiid an islet, named Mogote de Brujas, which lies i-
the "<. E. of the |)oiiU of the same nam<', about '2 cables' length.
From Hrujas Point the coast that follows is lower than before, and in the direction"!
S. .'Jo" W. for 2 miles to Batata, or \'igia Point, so named from having a gu:trd-hou<i'
on it: from this point that of Cha;:res is a cable's length distant, and is lower than ;i:*
former, i)<)rd'':<'<l wi'.h low rocks which show above water, and reefs which extend uu;
to a sliott distance.
CHa' i'lKS. — l-'rom Ch.igres Point to the west point of the Perion or rw/r, on whic!
staiuls the ( asile of San Lorenzo, is about 1^ cable's length S. by E. The Peiioni'
scarped to the N. W. and south, and the Castle of San Lorenzo, as we have said, i!
situated on it, in latitude [V 20' 57" N. and longitude 80° 3' .53" W. This Penon to the
north with point Arenas to the south, form the tuouth of Chagrc'S River, which, at the
widest part, is two cables' length across, and H where narrowest.
;"•( the E. S. E. at a short distance from the Castle of San Lorenzo, is the little to»n
or vil'age of C'hagres, consisting of huts covered with thatch. The mouth of the rivn
narrov/s h'-tween the penon and bank, which extends out from Arenas Point in a N. W.
direcfioti tr> tli!'. distance of a cable's length. In the mouth, and to the south of the pemm.
tlu'ir ,ir( ,' and 3 fathoms water; and the same depth continues, a little more or less, to
*S>f()ALS yPAR PORTO HKLLO.— H. M. S. Tribune, Captain Sir NesheU J. Willoughbv,
K. C. B. OT! till lOth of Novi nilier, 18:21, struck on a mck oli'Mnnzunillo point with the Island pi
HastiiuentoF hearing .S. VV. hy W. by conijuiss, distaiu 'A niiles, nnd Monkey Island S. E. Tiicrf
■were .'> fathoms walrr on it. and 7 or 8 fatlniiiis rmiiid if. This was accidentally omitted in its prop-
per plac' . His Mnjcsty's -^Hip Harpv, in IVhniarv, i&2d, having Manzanillo point bearing S, W.
by compass, Tainhor Island W. .; S. distant 4 miles, and being about 3^ or 4 miles offshore,
had only (I failionis wnter on rocky hot'oni ; and then hauling to the N. W. gradually deepciitJ
to 20 fnthonis
tCapt. Vt. S. Smith nnd others, say it extends oil' about a inile north-eastward.
die distance o
the distance o
Ironi nor'.h to
to sail out of
vessels, whici
a fair wind, fo
(lie opposition
the other of t
From Poin
mile to the pn
miles, to the '
S. .16' W.
fttlier P(]ually
p'ranriso Fidn
they do not m
De.irriptions
Navy Bivj
" Ac land
westward is en
that to the ea-
C'hagres, from
arrive close to
"CHACiRI'
4 or 5 miles o
to have lying i
with bushes, w
About half wa
being steep to
cellent water:
without dange
or day, after |
anchorage for ;
anchored in .')}■
E. ■' N. A str
according to tli
any great straii
well to slip ant
"The Bar o
tranco is rathe
fectly secure.
be avoided, or
healthy place I
a night in the
of the number
November, 181
"NAVY B.
formed by Poi
ward, and Poii
about a mile to
oiiis water ; Pc
within half a c
miles inward, 1
creases very gi
to2{ fathoms,
but reference o
greater portiot
variable, are g
which are gene
Point Man/i.
mile distant, w
little outset fro
" Point Liir
Toro Point, hs
who coramunii
nee Isles lie N. rii
I ("reeks are fottiiM
0 the S. S. E., IS, J.
•n creek is narrow,,
. AttlieS. E. pan
led with reefs, there
rojfctin!:, and tliPfA
liijih, witli hankinr
iche disenibomiPv
From Point (inrrii
nder from the Vn\n\
ves. The Fronioii
reef's, as are alsnih?
mire than a trIiIp,
ere are 11 lathoiw
the mangroves fv
s also of inanjTdvn
a little shoal ihath
inie to the west, anii
Manzanillo Poim,
;e for every cIhssoi
5 fathoms water, or,
t, which is the wesi.
lanillo Island, whici
jrped, and boidere;
ear them. iNaost;
liddle of its mouili
he said distance: ::
lioms water, on sac:
l)(>r is open to winiii
f the variable winj,
?rnjas Point, whi'l
rrrfs which exten
rujas, which liest-
d in the dirertinn"
villi; a ginrd-iiot"
id is lower than \u
which extend oui
m or rnck, on whic:
E. The Penon,'
as we have said, i>
This Penontothe
liver, which, atihe
o, is the little town
mouth of the river
IS Point in a N. V.
south of the pemm.
ttle more or less, lo
eshett J. Willoughbv,
nt with the Island ni
Isliind S. E. Tilcrf
ly omitted in its prop-
) point bearing S, ^^.
or 4 miles olf shore,
. grrndually deepened
ard.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT. 497
die distunce of half a mile ttp the river. To the west of the Castle of .^an Lracnzo, at
the distance of 200 varas, or 'IJ English fathoms, is a shoal named Laja, which extends
from north to south 70 fathoms, and is of rock, with very little water on it. To enter and
• 1 ... ..i-.u:. . _; ;.. ,i i „..i.". i _ir.._..
le Other o( tlicse dantjcrs.
Kroiii Point Arenas of the Rivor f'has;res, the direction of tiic coast is S. ()7p \V. ona
mile to the point of .Morriio, or Little Hill Point ; and from thence S. .'JS ' W. nearly 2
miles, to the Point of Animas: all the shore beins; low with a beach.
S. 36' W. at the distance of J lon;^ miles from the last mentioned point, there is an-
other equally low; and is the last point of the surveys of Hrij^adier Don .loaquin
Kraneisn Eiilalgo ; from whence proceedinrr onward, althoui;h we have varioui accounts,
they do not meeil that confidence which would entitle them to be named Dirci ions.
Dtucri plions of ihe coast from. Porto Jiello to Chagrcs, with ci'irecthns f" Cha(rrrs and
Navy Bays ; by Ciipl. (i. Sidney Smith, late Commander of II M. Sloop Bustard.
"Tiie land of Porto Bcllo is very high and full of hummocks, whil«t all that to the
westward is comparatively low, and in the vicinity of ('liaj;;res offers nothinji; remarkable :
that to the eastward of Manzanillo Point is rather hit;h and uniform, 'i'lie Castle of
f'h.n^rcs, from the nature of its position, cannot be seen from the eastward until you
arrive close to it
"CHAGRES BAY. — Point Brttjas forms the N. E. poii.: of the Bay, and when within
4 or 5 miles of it, in nearly an cast or west direction, it cannot be mistaken ; it appears
to have lying off it a small island, with its sides of perpendicular rock, and top covered
with bushes, which, on nearer apjiroach, is found to be connectcMJ with the main land. —
About halfway between this point ;;nd the (.'astic (the wliolo of that part of the coast
beini; steep to) is a remarkable white patch in the clilf, and close to it a fine fall of ex-
cellent water: but unless in very fine weather and smooth water, it cannot be ajiproached
; without daiif^er of slaving the boat. Wlien running; in lor the anchoratjc duriii-i ni.nht
or day, after jiassin^ Brujas Point, keep it open of the point .S. S. \V. of it. The best
anchorii^e for a lar^e ship is with IJrujay Point N. lO. about three miles. The i'mstard
anclioreil in .'){ fathoms with the Flai^siall' in the Castle 8. E. .'; E. and Point Brujas N.
Y.. l N. A stroti!^ current sets out of the river to the N. \. K. with 'ireater oi less force,
according to the season, whether rainy or dry ; but at all times it |)reve.its your riding with
any great strain with northerly winds. Should it come on to blow heavy, it would be
well to slip and shift round to Navy Bay.
"The Bar of Cliagres Harbor f)r River has 2.V fathoms on it, at low water: the en-
trance is rather diiricult, and at all times requires a fair wind, but when in. you aro per-
lectly secure. I would not recommetid its being entered, if the measure could possibly
be avoided, or to sutler the boats to be there at iiiglit. It is, perhaps, tlio most un-
healthy place known. The Bustard's cutter was, by stress of weather, obliged to pass
a night in the harbor; the consequent loss was a litutenant. and seven men: only one
of the number attacked recovered. This happened between the 'JTth ;»nd 30ih day of
November, 1827.
"NAVY BAY is about 4 miles in depth, and 3 in breadth, open to the north, and
formed by Point Manzi, which is the N. \Y. point of the Manzanillo Island, to the east-
ward, and Point Toro to the westward. Otf the latter lies a dangerous reef, extending
about a mile to the N. E. which should not be approached to a less depth than 5^ fath-
oms water; Point iManzi on the opposite side may be approached with »iilety by the eye,
within half a cable's length. The shores of the Bay on botli sides are bold for nearly 2
I miles inward, having 3 fathoms close to the beach or bushes. The depiia ©f ■water de-
H creases very gradually between Toro Ileef and the south end of th bay. being from 7
to 2} tathoms, so that persons may select their berth according to their draught ot watpr:
but reference ought to be had to the season oithe year. In the rainv season, b; tai the
;;reater portion of the year, it is best to anclwr on the west sioie, as the winds, though
variable, are generally from that qnarter; aad during the season of strong sea breezis',
which are generally from the N. E. with occMional westing, it is better tJ anchor under
Point Mair/,i. The latter hoie from the Bust ird N. \ W. by compass, one third of a
., mile distant, where the holding ground was found very good ^t 4i fathoms water, with a
? little outset frtmi the bay.
/j "Point Limon is hlulf, and is on the west side of the hay, about three miles within
i Toro Point, having a hut erected on it. where there is generally a guard of a lew soidisrs,
who communicate with Chagres by an intricate foot path ; fut althoush the distance is
fs:
498
BMINT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
m
i
not above J milfs, it takes several hcurs to arcomplish it. Wlien Point fiimon is w»|i
open, bearing S. by W. by com|)iis3, tiie liny may be entered with safely.
" Thesoundinyis on the coast between Points Toro and Briijas at a full mile nfTuhnrc
are 7\, 8, 8^, 9, and 10 fathoms, and thence to half a mile oft' ('hai,'res, nr iJatata I'oint,
10, 0,7, (jj. and G fathoms; there are '>', with the while patch before mentioned benrlin
E. S. K. always keeping Hrujas Point just open of thi'|)oinl .^. S. W. of it.
"Navy Bay has not a sinule resident on its shore besides the j^uard before spokon oi
Landing, excejit at a few places, is very difficult. Wood and cocoa-nuts are to be had
in abundance : fish are scarce.
" Some persons have pointed out dift'crent spots where fresh water may be ohfaiiif(|
but the Bustard's boats durin|r her stay here, from the ."SOth of November to the lltlmi
December, 1S27, were employed surveying and visitina; every part of the bay; andil.
though heavy rains had fallen, water was not to be found, except in small rjuanlitiesin
stagnant pools."
Dirertions Jhr sailing from Jumtiim, to and vpon the Coast of Colowliia, hetirrrn Esnui,
Island and Carlhagcna, including Cluigres and Porto litllo,by Capt. J. Maclicllar, Ji
N. 181G.
.TAIMATCA TO tSCUDO ISLAND AND riIA(iRRS.— "The current betwr
the Island of .lamaica and the S|)anisli main, or ("oast of Colombia, is not always to bi>
depended u|)on as settin^j to the westw nrd, as is generally supposed ; for in crossing Irmn
Jamaica to the main, ships have been known to be driven to the eastward by the currpnt
50 or ()0 miles in i or 5 days; which can only be guarded against by lunar observntionj,
or good chronometers. From the month of May till tin; middle or end of Novpinbe',
the east anil N. K. Tradt; Winds seidotti blow home to the main ; thercl'ore ships shou!:
never go to the southward of the parallel of eleven degrees, until they are 40 or oOniilu
to the westward of their intended port ; after which they may make a south course gnoi
allowing half a point easterly variation, and with the winds, which in the aforementmnp
months blow from S. W. to W., and sometimes in the morning after dayligiit lill-
o'clock, even at south, together with the current, will set them to the eastward, and lhi>rf
by gain the anchorage. If, however, u|)on making the land, they should fmd lliatil'
current has set theni to the eastward of the intended port, and light winds prevail, thei
should immediately stand to the northward so far as 10° .'}0', or even 11°, of latitudiMc
order to meet the N. E. trade wind, and with it to make good the necessary wesiin;
again.
" The land to the westward of the River Chagrcs, within the Tslnnd Escudo, is iiid
and unless you are close in shore, it is impossii)lc to rliscover that island ; but in arltit
day, a remarkable high hill will be seen t(> the eastward of it, which makes like a siijir
loaf. Steer in towards that hill, until you are within I! iriiles of the shore, and then nr,
to the eastward at about that distance from it, free frotn danger, until you see a fortoa
a small blutf, which is the entrance of the river, bearing about E.by S. or E., accorriin;
to your distance from the land. The mouth of the River Chagres is strongly inarkei,
by the land to the westward formitig a blutf, and the fort on the eastern side: the latter,
however, cannot be seen at a greater distance than 10 or 12 miles. You have goodaD-
chorage by bringing the fort to bear E. .S. E. or E. S. E. .', E. in from 10 to 6 fathoms
sand an<l mud: the Sugar Loaf to the westward will api)ear about one third above iIh
low land between Chagres and Escudo. and the two high hills of Porto Bello openo;
Point Brujas. In mooring, lay your small bower to the westward, an<l the best to tlif
eastward, as the offset of the river will generally keep the hawse clear during the preva-
lence of westerly winds." A'^ariation f)^ 10' E.
CHAGRES TO PORTO BELLO— " From the Road of the River Chagres l"
Porto Bello, the course by compass is N. E.J, N., iiut if you run .T or 4 miles to the iioiili-
ward, then a N. E. course will take you into the harbor: the distance is about 28 oi"''
miles. I strongly recommend, should light winds prevail, which is generally the case
from May to the end of November, that ships bound to the eastward should get a good
offing, as the current runs at the rate of from H to 2,^ miles an hour, to the nortliwaril
and eastward, and sets right on the rocks to the N. E. of Porto J?ello, particularly in the
rainy months, that is, as above stated, from IMay to November. In this season the Kivfr
Chagres has a discharge which discolors the sea 6, 7, and 8 miles ofT; and this water
meeting the sea current, causes a strong set to tlie eastward.
"If you intend going into Porto Bello. the entrance nf the harbor tnny be known by
two remarkable trees on the top of the hill, on the starboard or south side; and on a
hill, on the larboard side, is a small signal post. Tn coming from the westward keep
within 3 miles of the shore, until you open the town of i*orto Bello, on the starboard or
south side of the harbor, which will lead you in ; but observe, should you have liglit
winds, to kee
Drake's Islet,
ii|mn it. Tal
hind on the s(
Vou may am
guiiiK into till
ijenfrally brc
latlionis in br(
ll bears from
taut about liOi
from llie east*
" During tl
dancer to l)e a
length of the
we found (Vo
care must be
bliut the town
avoid the sun!
" There are
and supplies
a mile below
vou will be al)
wind, keep tli
thoins, or eve
" During tli
from the S. V
the harbor :
day. In moo
ward."
CHAfJREi
months of the
wanl 4 or 5 le
general light,
to Bello, and
seldom less tl
voidably drawi
laily in the ev
round the con
all up.
" \Vhen yt)i
current appeal
S. by E.; but
tiie dilferent p
San Bernardo,
observed to be
islands are lo'
bearing from 1
tween the islai
able trees, whii
of the coast, a
"As you pre
may always be
are long and lo
|hill over Cart
'5«tands, and for
Rosario Island
Ifrom 1 to 2:^ m
" In proceed
'«he town of C
-stance of 10 or
Jto bear to the
:0f the Saiined
4W. by W. abo
I
• According t(
BLUNT 8 AMEIIIGAN COAST PILOT,
499
Point liimon U vrf\]
iit'pty.
A full mile ofTmhor^
ri"<. or Hatiita I'omt,
p iiipritionrd beiirini;
;v. (.r it.
iril ht'tbre spoken of.
i-nutH are tu be hnj
nr may be obfainerl;
ember to the llthni
of the biiy ; and il.
a small r|u:mti(iesii]
1 1) ill, hrtirrrn Exrufi-
ipL J. Mac/cellar, H.
Phe current bpiwccr,
, is not always to U
for in crossing Irmn
twanl by the cumni
y iiinar observation!,
r end of November,
lerefore ships slum •
py are 40 or oOiinlti
a south courspgooil.
1 the aforemention'
after daylight till'
eastward, and tlnTp
should find that il.
f. winds prevail, tliev
n 11'^, of latitude,:!!
e necessary wesiin;
nd Escudo, is liich.
■iland ; but in acleir
1 makes like a sujif
shore, and tlieii riir,
itil you see a fortm
S. or E., according
s is strongly inariifi
em side : the latter.
You have good an-
om 10 to 6 fathoms
one third above tlw
Porto Bello openn;
an<l the best to thf
ar during the preva-
ic River Chagres tn
■ 4 miles to thenoiili-
ice is about 28 or "'''
is generally the case
d should get a gnoil
ur, to the northwarJ
0, particularly in liie
his season the Kiver
s off; and this wiilfr
nr may be known by
outh side; and on a
the westward keep
1, on the starboard ot
»uld you have ligbt
muds, to keep well up on account of the .Salmedina !*!hoal, whicli lies in a line wiih
lirikc's islet, on the larboard hand, when going in, as the current may set you dowu
uiioi' it. 'i'ake care, however, that you do not shut the town of Porto Hello in with the
land on the south side, as a shoal extends olf from the Islet ISuenaventura, on that side.
Vou may anchor in from 10 to 1'^ fatliunis, on soft mud. There are no other dangers in
i;uiii); into the harbor besides those stated. The Salmedina is fre(|uently visible, and
({eiicrally breaks: it is from .')() to GO 'athoms in extent N. N. E. and S. JS. W. and 50
l.ilbuins in breadth, with ()tathomsall round it, at 'J.'i fathoms distance from the breakers.
itl)ears from Drake's Islet, on the north side of the entrance, W. }, S, by compass, dis-
tant about MOU fathoms; and lieiween is the passage generally taken by ships coming
from the eastward, !(.!■ l*orto IJello.
"Dining the N. E. trades blowing home, that is, from December to May, there is no
dancer to be apprehended in going through this passage, as you may keep within a ship's
leni;ili of the Islet, and within half a cable's length of the .Salmedina ; between which
we I'oinid from 7 to 14, and 'Jv! fathoms of water. In turning uj) to Porto Bello, great
care nnist be taken, when within .T or 4 tuiles of the harbor's mouth, that you do not
shut the town in with the land on the south or starboard side of the harbor, in order to
avoid the sunken rocks off Buenaventura Islet.
"There are no particular marks for anchoring; but when ships require refreshment,
and supplies of water and wood, I would recommend their anchoring about a quarter of
a mile below Fort Fernaiulo, which stands on the north shore, and is easily seen; theu
vou will be abreast of the only watering |)laee in the harbor. In going in with a leading
wind, keep the town well open on the starboard l)ow, and anchor in from 30 to 15 fa-
thoms, or even in I'Jor 10, according to the size of your ship.
"During the months of May, .luiie, cVc. to November, light airs prevail in the harbor
from the .S. W. and W. ; ai\d, (^arly in the morning, light winds from the N. E. down
the harbor: therefore, be preparetl with boats ahead, to be under way by the dawn of
day. In mooring, let the small bower be to the noiiliward, and the best to the south*
ward."
CHAGRES TO CARTIIAGENA.— " Wlien at the river Chagres, during the
months of the rainy season, or from May to the end of Novend)er, stand out to the north-
wanl 4 or 5 leagues, so soon as you can; because the winds during these months are in
jfeneral light, and the current very strong, setting directly on the rocks which lie ofl' Por-
to Bello, and thence along the line of toast from E.by N. to E. N. E. and E. S. E.and
seldom less than at the rate of H or 3 miles an hour. .Should you, however, be una-
voidably drawn in near the land of Porto Bello, be constantly on your guard, but particu-
larly in tht! evening and at night, against squalls, which frequently shift from the land,
round the compass, with torrents of rain and gusts of wind so .is to oblige you to clew
id! lip.
" When you get to the eastward of I'oint St. Bias, and open the (iiilf of Darien, the
current appears to liave less clfeet, mid generally draws in to the south, .S. by W. and
S. by E.; but I strongly suspect that it is much iiidtienccd by the prevailing winds at
tiie ditferent jicriods of the seasons. After passing the (Julf, you may see the islands of
San Bernardo, which lie to the eastward, and form a duster, the centre of which we
observed to be in latitude 9=' 27' N.* longitude by chronometer, 75° 52' ,"30 ' W. These
islands are low, but very remarkal)le, when at the distatice of 10 or 12 miles off, and
bearing from E. to E. by S. ^ S. several parts of them will ajipear like small rocks be-
tween the islands : but at the south end of the norlhernmo; t island there are two remark-
able trees, which may he mistaken lof a vessel at anchor. These islands, like the whol«
of the coast, are covered with '» ood. and may be seen afiout 5 leagues oH".
"As you proceed furtlier to the eastward you will make the islands of Rosario, whrch
may always be known from those of San Bernardo, as they lie in a triangular form, and
arelongand low. Having passed these islands, if the weather be fine, you will see the
ikill over Carthagena, called Popa, on which a convent and castle with a signal staff
wands, and forms not unlike a gunner's Quoin. After you get to the eastward of the
vRosario Islands, you will find a current setting to the N. W. and N.N. W. at the rate of
|from 1 to 2^ mif"s in an hour.
" In proceeduij, to your nnchrrage you must steer to the northward, until you open
nhe town of Carthagena to the southward of the Popa, which may be seen at the dis-
tance of 10 or 12 leagues ott". In running in from sea. you must never bring the Popa
to bear to the nortliward of east : either of the above marks or bearings will lead clear
of the Salmedina Shoal, which has oaly 8 feet water on it ; and bears from the Popa S.
\V. by W. about S miles.
i
Pauiude.
According to the survey of Don J. 1'". Fidalgo, the centre of these Islands lies in 9^ 45' north
500
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST I'lI.OT.
"The nnrhnrn;;r of (';irtli;icpria is very goiiil, s;iim1 iiml imitl, and frnni f* to (> f;iil;niiM
of water. Ilc'if yoii aii- about .'(', tir •! miles fuMi ihft ( ily, unci may see a t'afewHv ,
the I'mc of the hiy, iiameil the St. Duniinuo (Jale, wlier< you may land, kei'|iiiiji a Imi,
to the westward, where there is a ^ood sandy he:i( h. In (lie fine Mrasoii tlie uinds pcuc
rally hlow alon(i shore, and stdJom lirinji; in mucli HPa. The marks tor anchorinp ^ ,
the eitadel on with the lower or soutli jjart 01 the I'opa, or the l*oi)a E. by !S. and lU
Boca Chica S. J K."
[From (he Journals and Ronmrkaof Utl'iocrfi in theBritiah Navy.]
The Codift from ('liiifrrm to linra (/rl 'lorn of Ihf Cliirii/iii Luf^niin, hjf Captain Mr
(ii'orf>e (tralium, whin Commundrr of tl. M. nlooji Jranis, \f*'2i and lH','5.
ESCTDU ISLAND.—The rour.sc from Chagrcs to the liland E.scudo is \V. by S.
by compass, about 7.') miles. The i.sland lies ') miles from the main land, and its e:i>tti
by sifzhts taken with two well rej^ulated (.hronometurs, was tound to he in r-r •») \\\
lonifitudc. It is low and covered with cocouiiut trcbu, and ia about l^ mile in Wir^n,
with a reef of rocks exteniliiKj from each enil.
Point Vail tieia bears from this island W. by S. 22 miles, and ma^ *" r.ren in eU,-.
weather. To llu' eastward of the point there are two small keys, nai.'u . >lie I'hiiiij;
Keys, and are covered with trees. To the westward, about three mil.;. , re the ijiri:,
Tiger Keys, between which and the main is a passage about a mile in breadth, huviii;;
from 7 to li) fathoms water. Here the current was found setting strong to the westwjp;
(I'RKK.N I5,\V. — !^i\ or seven milis to the westward of the Tiger Keys is theentrmct
of the ('hiri(|iii LagoDn; and H miles S. K. of this entrance is (ireen JJay, where \j
may anchor in 1(1 fathoms, about a mile Ironi the shore, abreast of an old hut iuilit
middle of the bay. At about half a mile from the shore, the water shoals suddenly. VnA
water may be |)rocured in aliundam.e : it runs out of a hollow rock neruly .'iOO yards!
the westward of the hut. There is also a pool of water close to the hut, but it is ikjI ^
good as that obtained from the rock. Wood is plentiful. There are no inhubitau;!
within 7 or H miles.
In working out of (ireen J?ay, two small keys will be observed : they are named iLi
Zapadillas, and bear W. N. W. from Point Valelicia. To these a berth must be p\K.
on account of a reef which stretches to the south-eastward from thetn about two mil..
on which the water breaks in most |nirts.
Boca del Toro, another passage into the lagoon, is about 10 miles W. by S. ftntiiilt
Zapadilla Keys. This may be known by a reirarkable rock, standing near tlie iiiidcli
of the entrance. Sliips going into the lagoon, should keep the rock open at abnuii
cable's length on the starboard side, until a reef appears on tlie larboard side, wiiu:
must not be approached to a less deptli than 4 fathoms, it being very steep. Passiiii
end of the reef in 7 fathom.s, and haul up for the bay, where you may choose your;iL
chorage in from 8 to 4 fallioms, well sheltered.
The only supplies to be obtaihcd here, are turtle, fish, and wood.
The C'nri(jai Lagoon, ly DougJus Cor, Esq., Commander of his Majeslfs sloo^
tShi'f neater, in IHl'J.
[Tho courses and bearings ore magnetic]
Chiriqui Lagoon is about 2fi miles long, and in some places I'J or l.T miles wide, »
several rivers falling into it. The principal entrance into this lagoon is called tlic \\-
lencia Channel, which is about two miles wide, lying north and south, with from 2.1 'o
14 fathoms water. Its latitude is about 9" 16' ".N., and longitude 81° 5»' W. Th
western side of this channel is formed by the Zapadillas and Water Key; the fmiK
having a reef on tlie nortli side of them, from the S. E. end of Provision Island to;i'a;
2 miles S. E. of the easternmost Zapadilla Key. Off the east end of Water Key. a rH
extends about lialf a mile. ^JTie eastern side of the channel is formed by the 1m
Keys and Valencia Point. The Ti^er Keys he IJl piile from Valencia Point, ;ind ut
four* in number, three having trees on them, and the fourth perfectly bare, to tlie ^. \\
of which is a rock jiist even with the surface of the water. On tliis the sea always breaks.
aud there are 17 fathoms within half a mile of it. There is little or no danger in goiiu
into this channel, by keeping a good lookout from the masthead, until you get «itli'
Water Key ; then there is a rocky bank with 11 feet on some parts of it. The inurk!
to avoid this bank, is to keep the two Zapadilla Keys open of the east end of W'M
Key, N. N. \V. ,' W. In going across to the south side of tlie lagoon to Chracu.Mti
River, the soundings are very irregular, there being in some places not more liland
fathoms. By observing tVe following directions, you will not have less than that dcpih.
* Capt. J. G. Graham notices only three.
Whrn :ihrf
iillii Keys jut
t|i;ii hfiiring I
North Valeiic
W. ,S. W. Ill
jf Water Key
til the North i
(if three fatho
en List to 10 I
MoLi Kiver w
ire within 'J i>
h.is, however,
f;irlioiiis, on II]
end of Water
At the heail
fowh, and ph
licti) I'resli at
There is ve
fallioins water
giving the reel
guide for you
The north i
54' Id " W. '
Remarks on tl
In his Maje^
enstwani of tlii
most ri'inarkal
a gun (pioin, a
distinguish, wa
al'iiut 1(1 mile
Froiii this to
We sounded i
shore. The w
mile an hour,
discolored for
will ot'ten obse
I'V the outsets
there being ')
would not be |
ryin<:, l)ut mos
generally blue
Point San .1
the North Fo
which gives it
a mile, as I ol*
northerly dine
markably high
auce of a vessc
From Point
I river, aud as m
5 fathoms, about
at the entrain r
., iti5and4,', fat!
,: length from tli
distinguish froi
river, in 4^ fat!
I did not oh'
-| The sounding.'
j my opinion, th
There are i
Serjeant and tw
out a passport
IILUNT S AMKIlirAN COAST ni.OT.
>0L
see a i;;ttew;iv ,
ml, kpf|)inj; :i inn,
on the uiiiiIm ^ciic
lor ani'liorint ,
u E. by S. aiiilii.,
ivy.]
, hii Captain M'.
I and lf"J5.
^scuilo is W. by S.
11(1, mul iUeiist ti,(i,
0 lip in r*\° •.") W
1 \}j iiiilf in leny;.
\Hj ' " rrfn in cl^i;
lair^. 'lie lM;tm,ii:.
nil..-. . 'lie Hit' ilit't
> in breiuitli, Im i,-
nt; to llie wcstMii.
Key.s is thectitrii t
en Bay, wliire \ j
if an old liut itnl'
lis siidcicniy. i'r-
np;irly riOU yarci-
hut, but it is iKii
c are no inhubitaij:!
tlipy are named ihi
[jerth iiinst be nive;
m about two mil;.
s W. by S. fintiiiii
ill}; near the iiiiiJi:!t
otk open at iib(iu;i
aiboard side, »bu:
■ry steep. Passibi
ay cliQOse yourai.
is Majesty's sloo^
1.3 miles wide, w
on is callt'd the \«-
utii, witli rii)ni2:!«
81° 6«' W. Tb|
ter Key ; the fotn.ei
sinn Island to aUui
f Water Key, a reel
biined by the Tis"
m-ia Point, ami :ue|
y bare, to the S.W
he sea always breaks,
• no danger in goiii;
until you f;et«ii!H''|
of it. The iiiarki
east end of AVaieil
;oon toChracuMo.!!
CCS not more llisn'l
less than that depih.
When ibreast of Water Key. »terr to the m»\itliH ird until you bnn^ tlio Iwn Za|)a-
lill.i KeVH jii>*l open (d the east end olW'aier Key, lirarini' N. W. by .\. ; keep llieiu on
fliii liiMrin^ until the ><inali ki'ys wliiili lie oil \'ali-ni'ia South Point ((inie on with the
\(irih Valeiuia I'oiiit, and you rtill have from IH to .'> and (> fallioios; then steer to the
W. .S. W. until the eastern Zapadilla Key eoitie."* within half its lireadth of the east end
ul Water Key, beariu]^ N. N. W. ,' W., and keep it thiiN open, or in that direction, un-
til the North ind South \'nleneia Points apjiear in a line. Voii will tin n In- on a bank
of three falhoin", which is about hall a mile w ide ; ami when over it the \s atcr w ill deep-
en f.iNt to 111 and 1'.' fathoms. \N Inu ynu are on the bank of three fallniins, ('liracu
Mola Kiver will bear about S. K. 4 or S miles distant. It i« not percepiildc until you
«re within 'J or '.\ miles. Nine fathoms is near cnoui;h to approach on the rivci side. It
has, however, two entrances. The best ancluua^^e is olf the nurihiriiniost, in ') or 10
fallioins, oil muddy bottom, with Valencia INiiiit bcariim N. by W, ', W., and the east
end of Water Kev .N. W. ,' N., or voii may jro f.irtlier eastward, in 't f'Mioiiis.
At the head of the rivci a tribe of Indians live, from wliom yoii may purchase ho^s,
fowls, and plaiitniiis, by ^oinu; up to their villa;;e about 'Ji» miles. The water is per-
liciiy iVesh at a t|iiartPr id' a mile from the sea.
There is very t;ood amhorai.'e on the south side of ilie Z,i|.;idilla Keys, in I'J nr l.'J
fathoms water, about one mile olf either of them, and lilile dan^> i in ;;iiiii<; in there, by
gimili the reef oil' tlie S. K. key a berth of about a mile. \ our eye will bo the best
guide for you hetc.
The north entrance of tlir. Chraco Mola lUver is in l.it. T 1' 3C" N., and long. 81°
54' lei ' W. Variation of the conipas-s 0 ' oU' E.
Remarks on the Coast of Ninira^na, hif Sir Willlum S. Wixrmav, iilwt Commander vj
II. M. S. Sujtliie, in Ma;/ and Junt, lf>0.
[The courses a:id beariiiys arc iiingiietic.J
In his Majesty's sloop .Sophie, we made tlie coast of Nicaragua, about .'U) miles to the
eastward of the Kiver .San .luaii and close to the Kiver Toitn^ja. Near the latter is the
most remarkable land on the coast. It is a liiuli hummock, shaped at the west end like
a yiiii quoin, and called the Turtle I'amie. The land to the eastward, as far as I could
distiiiijuish, was very low, and perfectly levi I. To the westward it was the same, for
about 1(1 miles, when; there are three hdlocUs rising mlaml near the Itiver Colorado,
from this to Point San .liian, it is uiiiforiiily level, very low, and coveri.'d with trees.
We sounded in .'>() fathoms, on blue iiiuil and small shtdls, at abort 10 or 11 <iiiles olf
shore. The wind variable from N. to N. E., a current runnini; to the S. W. about one
mile an hour. Off this part of the i'o;i>t, particularly after vjiin, the w;irer will be much
discolored for a coiisiderabhr dislanct' iVoiii the land ; and il'tlie wind blows on shore, you
will ot'ten observe a ripple that has the a|ipearaiice of broken water, which is occasioned
by the outsets from the many rivers on the coast; liut the souiiiliii^s are very regular,
there beiiiji ') and 10 fathoms from ;i to 4 mib's o(V shore. Nevertheliss, at ni;;ht it
would not be prndenf to sro into less than 7 fathoms, as the currents arc constantly va-
ryins, but mostly set on shore. The am borate is j^ood all aloii;^ this pait ol'the coast,
generally blue mud and clay.
Point San .Iiian, bearing N. W. by W., distant about .'j miles, has tlie apjiearance of
the North Foreland. The land, thoujih low, is thickly covered with very lii;:h trees,
which i^ives it a bluff and a bold appearance; but it should not be approai lied within
a mile, as I observed the hreaUers extendiri;: lialf a mile or more Ircm the point, in a
northerly direction. Standing towards Point San .1 nan from the eastward, many re-
markably high trees are seen ; one in particular, strijiped of its branches, has the appear-
ance of a vessel's mast, and may be seen at a considerable distancjr.
From Point San .luan the land takes a south-westeii\ direction to the mouth of the
river, and as near as T could judge, about 8 or 10 miles. You may run along in H or 9
fathoms, about two miles oH" shore, till iJneast of a low sandy point on the buboard hand,
at the entrance of the river, when you may haul round at about a cableV length from it,
in 5 and 4.1- fathoms. On the starboard liaiiil, just within the river, at about three cables'
length front the point, th(!re is a bank with only 4 or !j feet on if, wliicli you may |)!aiiily
distinguish from the ship. We anchored in the Sophie about , bible's length w ithin the
river, in 4^ fathoms water, on blue mud.
I did not observe any shoals or dangers upon the coast, or near the river .San Juan.
; The soundings are regular, and a good lookout, with the lead constantly going, are, iu
• my opinion, the principal requisites for approaching this coast.
There are no inhabitants at or near the river, but the Spaniards have a guard of a
; Serjeant and twelve soldiers at a short distance witbiu it, to prevent boats going up with-
out a passport from the commandant at Grenada.
IMAGE EVALUATION
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WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580
(716) 872-4503
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502
BLUNT^S AMERICAN COAST PILOT*
Vei'y excellent fresh water, and plenty of wood, may be easily procured ; and there
appeared to be abundance offish.
From Chaffrcs to Cape Cafoche.
[Continued from the Derrotero.]
The description which We havi' given of the coast thus far, we have presumed to call
by tijat name, because we can sulily say that the data from which we have compiled it,
is essentially good, and therefore contains no error but of a vety trivial nature ; but
heuce proceedinif onward, we cannot speak with equal certainty, and therefore have
thought it neceHsary to apprize the navigator with the distrust with which we proceed.
And although the general course of the coast may be considered as moderately exact,
yet we are in want of the details that are indispensably necessary for coasting alon^ the
shore. Therefore, until correct charts come to hand, we shall content ourselves with
giving such information as appears to us to a])proximate nearest to the truth, and which
may be sufficient to enable mariners to make those points of the coast that are most fre-
quented.
THE COAST BETWEEN PORTO BELLO AND VALENCIA POINT.-
From the last low point without a name, of the surveys of Brigadier John J. F. Fidaigo,
the coast trends about S. 70° W. a distance of 53 miles, to the River Beleni from whence
it bends N. 55° W. 8 leagues, to Point Escudo ; and thence it runs west another eijjiit
leagues, to Valencia Point. All this coast is generally low, excepting some parts which
rise a little : and the water is deep, so that at the distance of 3 or 4 miles off, there are
from 20 to 40 fathoms, the bottom being chiefly mud and sand. Several rivers disem-
bogue upon it, two of which, besides Chagres, namely, that of Indies, and that of Cocleli
ai'e navigable, and have communication with the interior. The river Coclet is 42 miles
to the westward of Chagres ; and i)etween them are 4 remarkable mouhtains, two of them
inland, and the other two on the coast ; and as they may serve for recognizing the land
by, we give a description of them.
1. The Caladeros Altos of Chagres are two mountains situated on the River Chagres,
and some distance inland. They lie E. N. E. and W. Sk W.,* and appear separate
from each other as you come from Porto Bello. They seem only as one when they
bear S. E., and ihus apparently united they have the same bearing from the Castle of
San Lorenzo, at Chagres ; therefore those bound to Chagres from sea, have only to
bring these two mountains in one, and steer S. E. for the port.
2. The Pilon of Miguel de la Borda is a single mountain, so named from its resem-
blance to a sugar loaf, which is seen inland, at about 9 leagues to the S. W. by S. from
Chagres. When this mountain bears S. by W. it will be in a line with the river Indios,
which is 5 leagues to the westward of Chagres.
3. The Sierra of Miguel de la Borda is of moderate elevation, and rises upon the
same coast. It extends north and south, and is 13 leagues to the westward of Porto
Bello.
4. The SierrAof Coclet, which is somewhat lower than the former, lies to the S.S,
W. of the river Coclet.
2Vie Cordillera of Veragua and Serrania of Salarr/inra. — Besides the mountains above
described, there are others about 7 leagues inland, very well known, and celebrated for
their grea« -elevation, named the Cordillera de Veragua, which commence nearly to the
south of lie river Coclet, and unite with the Serrania of Salamanca, nearly on the me-
ridian ofBocas de Toro, which ■'nds a little to the westward of the meridian of the river
Matina. Both are so -elevated as to be seer: 36 leagues out to sea in clear weather. At
the east end of the mountains of Veragua there is a gap resembling a riding saddle, and
is called the Silla, or Saddle of Veragua, and which lies south from the river Coclet.
Therefore to fm» that river from sea, you have only to lying the Silla to bear due south,
and steer in for the shores To the westward of the Silla there is a mount on the high-
est top of the same Cordillera, of the figure of a house or castle, and is called the Castle
of Choco.from which the island named Escudo de Veraguas (Shield of Veragua) bears
N. 38° W. Therefore, when the mount bears S. 38° E., the island will be found by
steering in that direction.! Upon the west end of the same mountain may be seen a
remarkable peak, called Pan de Suerre^ so called from the village at its base. This
may serve as a mark for finding Matina.
The Island of Escudo is low, covered with cocoa and other trees, and surrounded on
the east and north parts with various keys of a chalky clay, also covered with trees.
* We presume this should be N. W. and S. E.
t By another chart the bearing is N. 2° \V., and S. 2° E. ; but qs we have not the means of s^
certaining which, or if either, is correct, we advise the navigator to use it with caution.
From the eas
breaks. All
extends out a
and the depth
t'roin the mai
rivulets, but i
from their dis
good anchorai
the bank to th
it is not shelte
the cables.
From Point
situated in 9°
and islets, whi
Gordade Tirl
The eastern p;
They are conr
ofChiriqui ma
the easternmof
there is depth
of all burthens
formed by Pur
the bay, there
sels. This ch;
another more t
enter. Withir
bors; but as wi
to enter in or
western coast,
from it to mid-
The pilot Pi
latitude 9° 15'
9° 29'.
COAST BE
—From Punta
to Point Carret
N. W., a distan
Thence the cof
Harbor of San .
einbogue in it,
and tiiat of San
enters the very
SAN JUAN
by alow island,
island is nearly
The west point
The bay is verj
which limits the
2j from east to
"To take the a
one, or one and
ceed inward tov
ing that at a cab
to anchor, there
the harbor. Vc
lenience, except
ffom Septembei
The mouth o
Point Arenas, a
to the east of P
may be obtainc(
From the Ht
easterly, a distai
is properly calle
* See, Howe
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
503
uied ; and there
presumed to call
lave compiled it,
vial nature ; but
i therefore have
lich we proceed.
loderateiy exact.
)asting along the
It ourselves witL
truth, and which
hat are most fre-
CIA POINT-
lin J. F. Fidalgo,
leni from whence
est another eijjlit
iorae parts which
iles off', there are
;ral rivers disem-
nd that of Cocletj
!^oclet is 4'2 miles
tains, two of them
ognizing the land
16 River Chaares,
d appear separate
IS one when they
om the Castle of
jea, have only to
from its resem-
W. by S. from
the river Indies,
d rises upon the
estward of Porto
lies to the S.S.
mountains above
nd celebrated for
nee nearly to the
leariy on the iiie-
idian of the river
f'nr weather. At
ding saddle, and
[he river Coclet,
bear due south,
lunt on the hijh-
called the Castle
f Veragua) bears
will be found by
in may be seen a
its base. This
id surrounded on
rered with trees,
ot the means ofW'
lution.
From the east side a reef extends off about half a letigue, on which the sea generally
breaks. All the island and its keys are surrounded by a bank of sand and gravel, which
extends out about 5 miles, on which, and very near to the land, there are 4^ fathoms,
and the depth gradually increases outward. The island is situated about three leagues
troin the main land, and in case of emergency water may be procured from its various
rivulets, but not without considerable trouble, from the scantiness of the streams, and
from their distance above tho beach. On the S. and S. \V. sides of this island there is
good anchorage, sheltered from the norths and the breezes. There is also anchorage on
the bank to the eastward, but this is not so commodious as the other, not only because
it is not sheltered from the breeze, but also because the bottom is rocky, and may chafe
the cables.
From Point Valencia, already noticed, and which, according to the Pilot Patino, is
situated in 9° 13' of north latitude, the coast forms a great bay, shut in by various keys
and islets, which extend from ihat point W. N. W. a distance of 14 leagues, to Punta
Gorda de Tirbi. This great bay is separated into two parts, by several interior keys.
The eastern part is called the Lagoon of Chiriqui, and the western part Almirante Bay.
They are connected by various arms and creeks of little depth of water. The Lagoon
of Chiriqui may be entered through the channel which is formed by Point Valenciaand
the easternmost keys of the group ; and according to our information, although shallow,
there is depth of water sufficient, both in the channel and within the lagoon, for vessels
of all burthens. Almirante Bay must be entered exclusively by the channel which is
formed by Punta Gorda de Tirbi and the westernmost key. In this mouth, and within
the bay, there is, from the same authority, depth of water sufficient for all classes of ves-
eels. This channel is called the Dragon's Mouth, Boca del Dragon, to distinguish it from
another more to the eastward, called Boca del Toro, by which only small vessels can
enter. Within both bays the anchorage is as well sheltered and sficure as the best har-
bors; but as we possess no information respecting them, we shall say no more than that
to enter in or go out by the Dragon's Mouth, you should give a good berth to the
western coast, or that of Punta Gorda de Tirbi, on account of a rocky reef that runs out
from it to mid-channel.*
The pilot Patino places the northernmost key off Point Valencia, called Zapadilla, in
latitude 9° 15' 30" N., and the northernmost of those of the Island Baslimentos, in
9° 29'.
COAST BETWEEN PUNTA GORDA AND SAN .JUAN DE NICARAGUA.
—From Punta Gorda de Tirbi, the coast trends about N. ob ' W. a distance of 14 miles,
to Point Carreta, which is the eastern point of a bay that falls into the S. W., W., and
N. W., a distance of 13 miles, to Blanca, or White Point, which has an islet near it.
Thence the coast trends N. 3'' W., 26 miles, to the Point of Arenas, which forms the
Harbor of San Juan. All this coast is clean, and the water deep, and several rivers dis-
embogue in it, of which the principal is that of Martina or Port Cartayo, or Cartago,
and that of San ,Iuan. The last discharges its water by several mouths, one of which
enters the very harbor.
SAN .TUAN DE NICARAGUA.— The Harbor of San .Tuan, or St. John, is formed
by alow island, which, with the coast, encloses an extensive bay. On the east part the
island is nearly joined to the main land, and the entrance to the harbor is on the west.
The west point of the island is called Arenas Point, which is situated in 10° 66' N. lat.
The bay is very spacious, but is incommoded with a large bank, with little water on it,
which limits the extent of the anchorage to 5 cables' length from north to south, and to
^ from east to west.
To take the anchorage, you have only to coast Point Arenas at the distance of a half,
one, or one and a half, cable's length, according to the ship's draught of water, and pro-
ceed inward towards the east, so as to take the round of the point, with an understand-
ing that at a cable's length fromthe south coast of the island, which is where you ought
to anchor, there are i^ fathoms water. The lead is the best, in fact the only guide into
the harbor. Vessels in it are securely sheltered, there being no sea to occasion incon-
venience, except when the wind is in the N. W. quarter, which is common on this coast,
from September to the end of January or beginning of February.
The mouth of the River Si. Juan is exactly on the meridian of, or true south from,
Point Arenas, and by it there is a communication with the Lake of Nicaragua. A little
to the east of Point Arenas, upon the island, are some pits, or wells, where fresh water
may be obtained: it may also be procured in the river.
From the Harbor of San Juan de Nicaragua the coast trends to tlie north, a little
easterly, a distance of 80 leagues, to Cape Gracias a Dios, (Thanks to God,) and is what
is properly called the Mosquito Shore. It is all low land, for the high lands terminate
* See, however, another account of this lagoon, and some other places, given hereafter
504
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
at St. Juan's ; and in this extont there are numerous rivers and lagoons. A bank of
sounilings extends all along it, being about 8 miles from the shore at Point Arenas, and
running off in a north-easterly direction into latitude 1(>'^ .'33' N., and to longitude 81° \\\
Udoii this bank there arc a number of keys and reefs, and those oft' Cape Graciasa
Di are very dangerous. Of thein we possess no written description, but we may re-
mark that this coast has been recently surveyed by order of the British Admiralty, by
Capt. R. Owen and Lieut. Barnett, and that the results are published on the General
Chart of the West Indies, 18;}7, E. dc G. W. Blunt.
COAST BKTWEKN ARKNAS POINT AND THE PIGEON KEYS— North
of Point Arenas, 4(1 miles distant, is Point Gorda; the coast between forms an extensive
bay, called the Gulf of Matina. About J'oint (lorda and near it are several islets which,
with the coast, are clean ; and the soundings are so regular, that no other guide is neces-
sary tlian the use of the lead.
From Point Gorda the coast trends to N. about .3 leagues to Point Monos, S. E. o(
which there are several keys, very clean; and between them and the coast there is nn
anchorage in 3 fathoms water: this anchorage ought to be entered from the southwani
of the islets. To the N. N.E. of these islets there are others which rise upon the hanii
and reef, calleil the Pigeons, extending al)out 1'^ miles from north to south. To the
eastward of all these, and without the bank, lies a key, which with the Pigeons, fnrmsa
cliannel; but it is best to avoid it, by sailing on the outside, as the Pigeons' Reef hi||
thereby be entirely cleared, although it extends about two miles north from the islands.
BLiJHFIKLD'S, Oli BLKWFIELD'S LAGOON.— Abreast of the Pigeon Kpys,
on the coast, is the southern point of Bluefield's Lagoon, which is a bay extending in.
land to the westward, about 10 miles, and receiv iiig in its northern part a considerable river
called Rio Kscondido. From the southern point of the bay, or lagoon, to the northern
one, called Bluefield's Point, the distance is 13 miles N. N. E.; the latitiuJe of thispoin'
is 110 56' 20" N. it being the me n of several observations. Nearly on the line, betweci
the two points, is a key 11 miles in length, which forms, with the points, two channnels:
of these the northern is the principal one, and has, in the season of the breezes, about il
fathoms water; but at that season it is dangerous, because there is a fall (Alfada) of."
feet. In the time of the V'endavales, or rainy season, there are 2}^ fathoms, without anv
fall, or Alfada.
Having passed this bar, or channel, tlierc are within the bay 5 and G fathoms water,
upon clay : the anchorage is near the town on the N. E. side. To enter tlie lagoon vm
have only to keep along by Bluefield's Point, at the distance of a stone's throw, foriti<
very clean; and the point may be known from its being the highest land on this partnf
the coast. When within continue on near the north shore, for the south is very foul,
and requires the utmost caution: it will be indispensably necessary in going uj) to have
anchors and cables all clear, to let go at an instant when the current, which is moderate-
ly strong, may render such an expedient necessary.
PEARL LAGOON. — From Bluefield's Point the coast trends north, inclining a little
to the west, for the distance of 18 miles, to the entrance of the Pearl Lagoon. OH" this
part of the coast is a key, called the Cayman, lying at the distance of 7 miles from B hie-
field's Point, and somewhat more than half a league from the shore. A reef extendi
from the north part of this key to the distance of 4 miles ; but as every vessel ought
to pass to the eastward of it, there can be no danger if the lead be kept going. The en-
trance of Pearl Lagoon has deeper water than that of Bluefield's : there is also anchor-
age on the outside of it, under shelter of the north coast, which rounds to the N. E.a
distance of 11 miles to Point Loro.
To the eastward of the Pearl Lagoon, and well out from the joast, lies the Pit Key,
which is 7 leagues from it ; the Lobo Ma-'no, or Sea Wolf Key,* which lies 12 mib
N. E. by E. from Pit Key ; and lastly the Islas de Mangle, or Corn Islands, which He
jabout 12 miles to the eastward of the latter.
The Pit and Sea Wolf Keys are somewhat foul, and should not be approached nearer
than half a mile: they are dangerous to navigation, because having 14 fathoms about
them, and no bank near them with less depth, the soundings will give no indication of
their proximiiy in the night, or in thick weather. The channels which they form with
the Corn Islands and the coast, are clean and free.
[The Courses and Bearings arc magnetic]
ISLAND OF ST. ANl)REAV'.-On the 1st day of September, 1818, His Majesty's
*loop Beaver anchored in a fine bay or cove on the west coast of this island ; of which
in it, br.t the gn
* According to various modern charts, these two Keys appear to be of doubtful existence; but
we do not venture to alter these directions until we have better accounts and data to convince us
pf it.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
505
oons. A bank of
Point Arenas, nnd
longitude 81° \V.
fl' Cape Graciasn
1, but we mny re-
ish Admiralty, bv
ed on the Generiil
I KEYS.— North
forms an extensive
veral islets which,
ler guide is neccs-
t Monos, S. E. ol
e coast there is an
om the southwaril
rise upon thn Iwnk
to south. Tn the
B Pigeons, forms a
'igeons' Reef will
1 from the islands!
■ the Pigeon Keys,
bay extending ill.
1 considerable river
n, to the northern
titnde of this poin:
1 the line, betweci
Its, two channnels;
le breezes, about ■;
I fall (Alfada)of:
horns, without an;
G fathoms water,
iter the lagoon ym
le's throw, for ito
iiid on this partoi
south is very I'nul,
going up to have
which is moderate-
1, inclining a little
agoon. Oft'this
7 miles from Blue-
A reef extendi
very vessel ought
it going. The en-
ere is also anchor-
ds to the N. E,j
lies the Pit Key,
^hich lies 12 mile<
Islands, which lie
ipproached nearer
14 fathoms about
■e no indication of
cli they form with
■318, His Majesty's
island ; of which
ibtful existence ; bui
data to convince us
the following information was obtained, while lying there. The bay is spaciou.i and
clean, sheltered from N. by E. round by east to S. by E.; and it appeared ihat a S. AV.
wind would not send in much sea. The bottom is rocky without the depth of 7 fathoms;
so that you must run in until you get upon the white Ixittom, which consists of white
sand, and bounds the bay, stretching off a long mile, having good anchorage on every
part of it. The Beaver laid with a small inlet laying nearly east, distant three quartets
of a mile off shore ; the north point of the bay bearing N. by W. and the south point
S. by VV. i W. in 6^' fathoms.
No other directions are necessary for entering this bay, than to steer directly in, and
anchor where convenient. To find the situation of the bay from the offing, look out for
the highest part of the island, near the south end, on which are two cocoa-nut trees, very
conspicuous by their overtopping the other trees, and by being the only cocoa-nut trees
that show themselves on the high land : bring them to bear N. E. or N. E. by N. and
you will fina the bay by steering in that direction.
It is flat to the distance of two cables' length from the north point, with no more than
2 and 3 fathoms, deepening suddenly to 8 fathoms; but this lying so near the shore, ia
out of the way of sailing in from the southward. But if from the northward, running
along shore, with a scant N. E. wind, it will be necessary to give it a berth, going no
nearer to the shore than 8 fathoms ; and keeping the south point of the bay a little open
of the larboard bow bearing nearly south; and when the two cocoa-nut trees come over
a remarkable withered tree which stands near a sandy place on the point, bearing about
N. E. you will have passed the point of the flat, and may liaul in S. E. for tlie anchor-
age. We sounded the north shore, and found 5 fathoms close to ; so far as we sounded,
tiie bay was all bold and clear.
There is an inlet in the N. E. corner of the cove, which would answer for a careening
place for small vessels; it is also a snug harbor for boats. At the entrance it is 27 fa-
thoms wide and has 4^ fathoms water ; but this depth does not continue more than a ca-
ble's length, when it shoals to 3, and then suddenly to 6 feet. Two brigs and a frigate
might be moored in the entrance, in which situation they would api)ear as in a wet dock,
having hawsers made faM on shore from their bows and quarters ; but a vessel must be
warped in stern foremost, having a bower anchor a cable's length to the westward, as a
security against the winds from that quarter, which blow right in. The north part of
the cove is also a good place to moor ships, huving a bow er anchor toward the sea ; they
might be moored with their sterns to the shore, by the stream cable, or a good hawser.
The island in general presents a pleasant fertile appearance; it is of moderate height,
and may be seen 18 or 20 miles oiY: when seen from the eastward, it makes in two hum-
mocks, of which the north one is the highest. As we sailed along the east coast, we ob-
served it to be bounded by a reef, wiiich appeared to extend off 4 or 5 miles; the south
point of this reef, with the shore inside of it, forms what is called the Eastern Harbor,
the entrance of which is from the southward. The north end is very dangerous, having
a low key with a reef off it, ( ^ which the sea breaks as far as can be seen from the deck,
probably 7 miles ; it joins witn me eastern reef, and they together encompass all the north
end and twothrds of the east side of the island, ending a mile or so south of the en-
trance to the Eastern Harbor.
The south end is bold, as is the west side : you may anchor in a bight near the shore
to the northward of the cove, near some chalky clitis: we got soundings of 9 fathoms
in it, bi't the ground \/as coarse. There are no soundings until you come very near the
shore.
From the hills you can see the E. S. E. Keys, which lie 7 leagues from St. Andrew's:
theS. S. W. Key's 10, and Old Providence 18 leagues.
The currents about these i 'ands are very irregular, setting occasionally in every direc-
tion, but generally to the northward and southward. In going there, we exjierienced a
strong easterly current; in returning, a , 'southerly one; and a vessel had arrived from
the Indian coast a short time before, having had calms nearly all the passage, and was
brought along by a strong N. E. current.
THE S. S. VV.KEVS, are the southernmost and westernmost of the keys around St.
Andrew's Island, being S. by W. 20 miles from the south jjoint of St. Andrew's Island.
These are three islets, which afford gooil anchoring ground, and so clean that there is
nothing to be guarded against, except what is in sight ; for although there are a ievr
rocks round them, they are too near to be of any interruption.
THE E. S. E. KEYS.— About E. l S. from St. Andrew's Island, at the distance of
5 leagues from the south end of it, there are three keys, called the E. S. E. Keys. They
are surrounded by a reef and a bank, of 7 miles in extent, which is very dangerous, and
although there is anchorage for small vessels on it, it is necessary to have a pilot.
LITTLE CORN ISLAND lies about 20 leagues W. S. W. 1 W. from St. An-
drew"*, aud has a reef round the east side of it, about a mile from tHe shore. The isl-
64
''if
11
m
i I
i
50G
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
and appears to be all savanna, bordered round the beach with trees : all round the p;i«t
Bide there are a great number of cocoa-nut trees, 'i'liere is good anchorage in a bay on
the S. VV. side ol the island, where you niaj lie shfiiered from north winds; from the
north and south points of the bay there are reefs run ofl' to the distance of two c;iblts'
length, but there is good room to work in, and regular soundings. You may anclidr in
3 or 4 fathoms, sandy ground, at about a mile from the shore. ]n ajjproaching this liay
from the northward, it is necessary to give the north point of the island a berth of a mile
in order to clear the reef. The tide rises and falls about 3 feet, and there was a currrnt
off the bay setting to the southward, but not very strong. Latitude of the bay by obser-
vation is 12" 17' N. Variation of the compass, 1)° -JO' K. At the Porcupine's anchur-
age the south onint of the bay bore E. S. K., and the north point N. W. by W.
GREAT CORN ISLAND.— This island lies S. S. W. 10 or 11 miles from Litile
Corn Island : it has a reef olf the N. E. end of it, that runs along the east side aboui a
mile and a half iVoin the shore. 'JMie N. W, part of the island is pretty bold; in ihf
N. W. bay called the Rrigantine Bay, there is good anchorage with the sea breeze, bui
no shelter from norths. Tiiere is another called the S. W. Ray. where we anchored in
3 fathoms. Olf the point between the two bays lies a very dangerous ledge of rocl,;.
stretching from the point to sea, nearly east and west, about 2 or 2k miles, and havin:;
from 10 to 13 feet water on it : it does not appear to be more than 2 cables' length across
in any part, and on the outer end there is a spot with only 9 feet on it, where tlie sm
broke when it blew strong. Over this ledge we were carried by the unskilfulness ol tl:e
pilot, and beat our rudder off, close by the point, where I think we had the best waiei ;
this ledge breaks off the sea from the bay, when the wind is to the westward of norlli,
In going down the west side of the island for the bay, it is necessary to give these rocks
a good berth, and not haul in for the bay till the S. W. point of the island bears about
E. S. E.; but by keeping a look out from the mast head, you nay see the rocks and
round them, taking care to go no nearer to them than 6 fathoms: you may then work up
into the bay, the soundings being regular from G to 2j fathoms, on a fine sandy bottom.
You may sail along on the outside of the reef to the eastward of the island, and go
round the 8. E. point, which is pretty bold; then haul into the bay, and fetch farther lo
windward than by going to the westward round the ledge. The Porcupine lay in 31a-
thorns water, about half a mile off shore, with the north point of the bay bearing N. bv
W., and the S. W. point S. E. J S. We always found a great swell in the bay, spttin?
from point to point whichever way the wind blew ; but it had been constantly blowing
strong without. The patch of 9 feet on the outer end of the ledge, where the sea broke.
bore W. by N. from the anchorage. The latitude observed at the anchorage is 12° 13
N. and the longitude ^3^ 3' W. We observed a regular rise and fall of the water bv the
$hore; but the current off the bay ran moderately to the southward.
This island is very conveniently situated for those bound to the Harbor of Bluefields,
which bears from it W. by S. distant 14 leagues, and which it is very dangerous attempt-
ing, in blowing weather, with the wind on shore, as there are only 12 or 13 feet water
on the bar ; but here, as was our case, they may stay in safety till the weather settles.
that thev can get in.
DANGEROUS ROCK.— To the southward of the Great Corn Island, at the dis-
tance of about 7 miles, there is a rock which appears above water, and the greatest cau-
tion should be taken to avoid it ; for we do not believe that its situation is coirectly
known, and even if it were, it would still be dangerous to navigation at right, or in thick
weather.
THE ISLANDS OF SANTA CATALINA AND PROVIDENCE, separated only
by a narrow channel, may be considered as one island. .They are situated about 13
leagues N. 23° E. from St. Andrew's. Catalina is scarcely any thing more than a rock.
extremely cniggy, and mostly covered with stones. The highest parts of it are ex-
cessively irr''gular, so that it is of uo value, and is therefore uninhabited. Providence
is about 4 miles in length froiu north to south, and 2 from east to west. From the level
of the sea, at the most salient points, it begins to rise with a very gentle acclivity towards
the centre, where, resembling an amphitheatre, it forms four hills, crowned by a high
mountain. From the summit or cusp of the easternmost hill, four streams descend
from the same source, and run down to the shore in different directions, subdividing in
their course into smaller rivulets of most excellent water. The most abundant cf these
streams in the dry season, is that which runs down on the west side, into what is called
Freshwater Bay, Ensenada de Agua dulce. In clear weather the island may be seen
from 10 to 12 leagues off. It is, as well as Catalina, surrounded by a reef, that will not
admit of coming within a league of it, and on the north side, not nearer than 4 rniles.
It is inhabited by three or four families, who cultivate some portions of it. Vessels nni
drawing more than 10 or 11 feet, may get In between the reefs, but it is necessary to
have a pilot for the purpose.
.MM...
BLL'NT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
507
round tlie f;i«t
rage in a bay on
imls; from (he
e of two ciihk's"
I iiiiiy anclidr in
uaching this liay
a berth ol aniile
re was a currrnt
lie bay by obser-
upine's anchor-
'. by W.
liles from Little
;ast side about a
tty bohl ; in \\\t
s sea breeze, but
I we anchored in
s ledge of rocks.
niles, and havin;
es' length across
it, where the se,i
ikilfulness of the
J the best water;
stward of norili.
I give these roci<s
dand bears abuiit
iee the rocl<s and
nay then work up
ine sandy bottom,
le island, and go
id fetch farther to
;upine lay in 3 iV
ray bearing N. by
n the bay, setting
onstanlly blowiiit;
ere the sea brok",
horage is 12= l.T
f the water bv the
bor of Bluefields,
ngerous attempt-
or 13 feet water
weather settles.
Island, at the dis-
the greatest can-
lation is correctly
Iright, or in thick
IE, separated only
Isituated about 13
|more than a rock.
^arts of it are ex-
ited. Providence
From the level
I acclivity towards
jwned by a liipli
streams descend
IS, subdividing in
abundant oflhe.se
ito what is called
land may be seen
Veef, that will not
frer thaM 4 rniles.
it. Vessels nn;
It is necessary to
MrSIvETRERS. — This shoal, of which we have no written description, i.s danger-
ous, and ha.s an extent of 8 miles, in a north-westerly direction. The centre lies in 13°
■yr S. i.it., and 80^ 03' \V. long.
QUIT A SITKNO. — This is an extensive bank, of 3') miles in length from north to
south, and 13 miles in width from east to west, having on it from 7 to JO fatlioins water,
excepting on the eastern edge, which is dangerous, being a range of shoals and reefs,
lur ail extent of v,'3 miles, ranging nearly north and south.
South point of the bank is in 14=" 2' N. lat., 81= l.'y VV. long.
North point 14 37 " 81 7 •'
South point of the shoal ground 14 7 " 81 7 "
North do. do. do 14 30 " 81 7 "
SERRA.NA. — East, 42 miles from the eastern edge of Quita Sueno, is the Serrana
Bank. It is of a triangular shape, longest from N. E. to S. W., being 20 miles long ;
on which point there is a key. The N. E. and S. aides are bounded by reefs.
North point 14° 28' N. lat., hO° 17' W. long.
East point 14 24 " 80 8
S. W. point 14 16 " 80 23 "
SERRANILLA. — This is a bank of 25 miles in extent from east to west, and 20
miles fiom north to south, of difl'erent depths, from 3 to 30 fathoms. The S. E. side is
a range of keys and breakers ; the western side is clean and clear, with the exception of
U!ie small spot called the Western Breaker.
The N. E. Breaker, whith may be called the N. E.
point of the bank lies in 15° 47' N. lat., 79° 42' W. long.
The west point of the bank in 15 45 " 80 7 "
THE NEW SHOAL is a bank extending about 13 miles from N. E. to S. W., and 7
Ironieast to west. All the eastern part is a reef, very steep to ; but on the west side the
depth diminishes gradually. (Ja the bank, at a mile and a half from its northern ex-
tremity, there is a sandy key, si' ated in latitude 15^ 52' 20" N. and longitude 78^ 33'
W. 'fhree or four miles W. N. W. from this key, you may anchor; but take care not
to get into less than 9 fathonrs water, because at C'.y miles W. N. W. from it, a rock has
been found, with only 7 teet water on it ; and S. by E. from it, at the distance of a mile,
there is another, with no more than 4 feet water on it. Both of them stand in 5 fathoms.
Thev are very steep, and not larger than a boat.
THE B.\.XO DEL COMBOY does not exist; for particular search has been made
for it, but it could not be found.
The above have all been surveyed by Capt. R. Owen and Lieut. Barnett, and are pub-
lished in the General Chart of the West Indies, by E. 6c G. W. Blunt, 1837.
GRE.iT RIVER.— 'From Point Loro, already mentioned, the coast trends about
north, a distance of 27 miles, to the Rio Grande, or Great River. This part of the coast
is very foul, with a reef which stretches off from it about G miles. On the southern
ed§e of the reef, and east from Pcint Loro, there are two keys, the easternmost of which
is called Marron. To the north, a little westerly from this key. and at the distance of
9 miles, there is another, which is outside the reef. Without these two keys there are
othors, of which the southernmost are called the Pearl Keys. To these follow three
others, called the King's Keys, which lie east from the mouth of the Great liiver, at
the distance of about 13 miles. Finally, to these follow the Mosquito, Mim of War,
and Sea Wolf Keys, the last being to the eastward of the Man of War Keys. The
northernmost of the Man of War Keys lies about 20 miles distant from the (ireat River.
lietrt'een all these keys ihere are good channels, with from 5.y to •) fathoms water, on
clean mud ; but to take them it is necessary to have a pilot, and if you have not one,
you ought to go outside the whole of them. To enter the anchorage of Great River,
you stiould pass between the Man of War Keys and the coast ; in which channel, until
vou arrive at Great River, there is nothing to fear or attend to but tho lead.
' PRINCE AMILCA RIVER.— To the N. by W. from (4reat River, at the distance
of 11 miles, there is another river, called Prince Amilca,* from which, in the same di-
rection, and at the distance of 9 miles, is the Black Rock River. From this the coast
trends north a little easterly, for 11 miles, to the River Tongula ; in front of the mouth
of which, about 5 miles to the eastward, there are some rocky shoals, which are the only
dangers along the coast, between this river and Great River.
* There is great variety in the charts in the names of this and other rivers on tho coast, and also
of the keys.
3 F* «
m
508
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
THE COAST TO BRACMA POINT— From the River Tonjjula the f ortst ti-e^if),
about N. by W. ''or tlie tlistaiuc of 17 miles, to the River Wurva ; whence it contiimp,
to the nortli for </ miles to Uracina River; and theiiee it rounds to the N. E. a difimicc
of 8 miles, to Hracma Point. This last pai' of the coast, called the Rarrancas, or Hrng.
man's Rlutf, forms a bay shelteicd from the nortlis, and westerly winds, and in it ynu
may anchor, in any depth that suits you, under.-tandiiic .hat at 'J miles from the land
there are 4 fathoms, upon coarse tray sand iuid small shells. (Irtnt care should be
taken in laiulini; on this beach, as there is a bank before it, on whicli, witli ever so imli;
wind from the east, the sea breaks with fjreat force.
THE COAST TO (iRACIAS A DIOS.— From Bracma Point the const trpmjs
about N. N. W., a distance of G miles, to the River Tupapi, or Housctan-,, whidus
known by a town situated about three quarters of a leasiue froin the beach, ;ui(l dis-
cernible at a good offuia;, as the ground is level and bare. Froui Tupapi the shore runs
about N.N. E. a distance of 20 miles, to the Governor's Point, which is known by be-
ing more salient eastward than any other on this coast, and thickly covered with trees,
From this point the coast trends to the N. N. \V., a distance of 12 miles, to tlie nioiiih
of Arenas, or Sandy Ray, in which there is so little water, that, in the time of ihe
breezes, launches jjass with difficulty; but within, there is a deep and spacious bay,
From Sandy Bay the coast trends to the north, 10 miles, to the River Guanason, aiiil
thence to the Ray of Grac'as a Dios, it is 13 miles in the •ime direction.
THE RAY OF GRACIAS A DJOS is formed by a tongue of land extending to
the eastward more than 4 miles, and which affords a good roadstead, with winds Iroin
S. S. W. round by \V. an'l N. to S. S. E. The easternmost and southernmost point
of this tongue of land is that which. Is called Cape Gracias a Dios ; and from it to ilie
south there are several keys, of whicii the last or southernruost is called San Pio ; ami
the south point of it, called Arenas Point, is also the east point of the bay. Thr. deptli
of water in the bay is from 20 feet, which is found at the entrance, to 16, which is fouuil
well within it; and in all parts of it the bottom is soft, sliniv clav.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAKING THE ANCH()RA(iE OF GRACIAS A
DIOS. — To anchor in this bay, if approaching it from the north and west, you !ia\e
only to pass the sandy point of Key San Pio, and then run into the bay, and antlici in
the number of feet suitable to thy vessel's draught of water, for all of which yor. ha,e
oi.dy to attend to the lead. The only thing which demands a little care, if, not .o iiiis-
taUe for the Key San Pio, that which comes before it, called Troncoso ; for having a
strait of a mile in breadth between them, and the Key San Pio being very low, any one
coming from sea may be deceived, and take the strait between the keys for the entrance;
but this mistake may be avoided, if you bear in mind that Key Troncoso is very sniiiil,
and, on the contrary, that Key San Pio is a mile in extent from N. E. to S. W,, anJ
farther, in this strait, there is so little water, that scarcely a canoe can pass, which islhc
cause of the sea generally breaking in it. To those coming from the southward, in or-
der to enter this bay, we have nothing farther to recommend.
Such is the description of this bay, given in 1788, by Don Gonzalo Vnllejo, who an-
chored in it in the cj rvette San Pio, under his command ; but we ought also to adJ
what Don .losef del Rio reports of it, after visiting it in 179'5. "J ought to make known
that the anchorage in the bay of Cape Gracias a Dios, is becomin^^ lost; for the cut of
communication made by the Ens^lish frou; the Gre.it River Segovia, across tlie tongue
of land that forms the bay, for the purpose of conveying into it the timber which tiiej
bring down by that river, has increased so much in width that, from a narrow canal, it
has become a brancli of the river, and brings with it so much soil, and so many trunks
of trees, which h?>s diminished the depth of the bay so much, that since the year 1T8?,
there are three feet less water in the vicinity of Key San Pio; and it is very probable,
that, within a few years, the depth will be filled up, and vessels will be obliged lo remain
on the outside, detirived of the shelter *liey at present have, and which is of so great an
advantage to those who navigate on this coast durins the season of the Norths."
All the coast from the River Tongula is clean, without any other keys or reefs on the
bank than those already described ; and those which are between the parallels of Gover-
nor's Point, and Cape Gracias a Dios, which are named the Mosquitos and Thomas'
Keys. These keys, with their reefs, form with the coast, a channel four leagues in
breadth where narrowest; and although between them there are passes with a depth of
6 fathoms or more water, yet it is not advisable to attempt them, but always run to llie
westward, between them and the coast ; for there can be ao risk in this channel, as the
lead will give timely warnino, either in sailing with the witd large, or working to wind-
ward; for at half a league from the coast *here are 4^ fathoms and y in the vicinity of
the keys; therefore, by not getting into less than 4rwhen standing westward, or into
more than 8 fathoms to the eastward, there will not be~ the leu-t risk or cause of aoxist;.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST I>IL()T.
509
the coast treofli
ice it continues
Ni. K. a •lis'tiiiicc
rancas, or Hraj-
», and in it jnu
's Ironi the land
rare should be
ith ever so little
the coast trends
isctan", whiili u
beacli, and ins-
j)i the shore rum
is known by b(>
vered with trees,
es, to the mouth
the time of the
id spncioDs bay,
r Guanasou, ^nd
n.
ind extending to
with winds I'roin
Litherninost point
md from it to the
led San Pio; ami
bay- Thr, deptli
If),' which is found
? GRACIAS A
id west, you ha\e
;iy, and aiuliciin
f which yov. lia.e
are, is not .0 mis-
)so ; for having a
very low, any one
for tlie entiunce;
■oso is very sniaii,
E. to S. W„ anJ
pass, which is the
southward, in or-
From the Hay of Oracias a Dios, you may steer S. S. K., which ronr.'c will take you
in sight of the westernmost key of this croup, wliicli is :\ dark lirown rock, that may ho
geeii lit the distance of 6 or (> miles. On this route you will have iVoni 7 to H\ fathoms,
and the course must K-'kept without going anyihiiig to the eastward of it, until you are
well clear of the soutlu "most keys; the surest indication for which, will be your get-
ting the deptli of II fathi. is, and thence you may shape a course for your vovage.
FROM CAPK (^IIACIAS A DIOS, WHSfVVARI).— From Capo (!rac"iasa Dios
the co.ist runs about N. W. for the distance of ten leagues, to ('ape Kalsc, wliich may
be known from beina; t\e highest land on this part of the coast. From the Fal.se Cape
a bank, with very little water on it, projects out to the N. E. to the distance of h miles ;
but the coast bank preserves i'^ regular soundings, and it even seems as if they extended
to the Serrannilla; but however that jnay be, it is so little known, that 'J fathoms is the
greatest depth that you ought to navigate in, because tlicre are various shoals, of which
the psitions are very doulitful ; and, tiierefore, to ni;vigate with safety, you ought not to
get into deeper water than 9 fathoms, nor into a less depth than .'i.l (alhonis; and this
rule will hold good, either in steering a direct course, or working to windward ; lor you
will thus be sure of navigating in a clean channel of 'JO miles breadth.
From False Cape the coast trends aliout W. N. \V. for a distance of about .'].') miles,
to the Lagoon of Cartago, or Cara'.nsca, which is easily known bv its wide niouih. All
this coast, like the preceding, is clean, with regular soundings along it; and, to navigate
on it, the lead is a sufficient guide, so that you may not get into less than 5.', fathoms when
standing towards the shore, or into more than *) when staiidina ol)'; by doing wliich, you
will evade falling on the Vivorilla,* <5cc. as they he about 6 leagues olf the coast north-
ward.
From Cartago Lagoon the coast trends ubout W. N. W, for a distance of about iO
leagues, to Brewer's Lagoon ; ant' thent", almost on the same bearing, a distance of 8j
leagues, to ths Rio Tinto, or lih> River.
BLACK RIVER, AND .AIETIIOD OF ANCHORING OFF IT— Black River
is distinguished by the rnounuiins of La Cruz, which are v( ry lofty, and are the first to
be seen on all the coast, after passing Nicaragua. These mountains are a little to the
eastward of the ri.'er's mouth : on the same river there is a peak, named the Sugar Loaf,
because it is of that shape. To anchor olf this riv.-r, bring the mouth of it to bear south,
and Cape Cameron west, taking care not to get into less than 11 fathoms ; because in
less depth there are many lost anchors, left by ships obliged precipit.itely to make sail
when the norths have set in.
This anchorage is an open roadstead, where, even with the winds of the breeze, it is
necessary to ride with two thirds of a cal)le out ; and so soon as the wind falls, to heave
in to nearly a-peak, in order to avoid fouling the anchor. When lying in this anchorage
dn"i:ig the season of the gales, which, as we have said, is from October to February, tlie
utmost attention must be paid to the state of the weather; and when you see the wind
gets to the south-east and then veers to south, and southwest, you ought immediately
to weigh the anchor, and make sail olf shore well clear of tlie lanil, for a gale will
surely succeed. Cloudiness, or a foul appearance in the N. W. quarter during these
months, is an aliuost infallible sign oi' an approaching gale; a swell from the north is an
indication equally certiin, that precedes the gale at a moderate interval. In any of these
lies, the loss of a ship remaining at anchor is inevitable ; frequently the wind will
nof give time to weigh the anchor; in which case the cable must be slipped, with a buoy
up ;n it, or even cut, that you may immediately make sail, and get clear from the lanci,
in order to encounter the gale under sail. These gales are very violent, and raise a hea-
vy sea, and therefore, ii a ship is very much distressed, she has the resource of running
to the Bay of Gracias a Dios for shelter, and riding out the gale at anchor; and it has
been already observed, that the lead is a guide, which there, will carry you clear of all
danger. As these gales occur more frequently from the N. W. and W., than from the
north, the result is, that ordinarily, the anchorages of Gracias a Dios may be considered
as a port to leeward, to which yoa can bear away : in which resource there will be found
the advantage of being to windward of the Black River when the hard weather ceases;
because then the breeze blows from the east, and therefore in a short time, and almost
without trouble, you can return to vour former anchorage.
BLACK RIVER BAR..— Tl^e 'Bar of Black River is extremely dangerous, and
bo'itsrun great risk of being upse.. on it, and the crews on board of them of perishing,
from the very heavy sea there is generally upon it. Therefore, either to enter or come
out of it, it is necessary that it should be done in the calm of the morning, before the sea
breeze sets in, and after the land breeze has blown the preceding night. If the breeze
^n^fiB
I
^'i'l'
^lli
fit
1
• There are many charts in which this and other rocks do not appear ; but we do not think pro.
per to alter these directions until we have a more correct account of the situation of all of them.
510
iu,i'M"*s ami:u1caN coast pilot.
has been tolenibly fiesli, neither \iu\n^ in or eomin^ out ran be clFerted; so tlmt ciim.
inunicition with tiio sljore in tar from lVLM|uent, and is always very troublesome and dun-
gerons.
COAST TO f'APK CAMKRO.N AND PKNTA CASTIIJ.A.— From Black
.liver t}ie coast trends west, with some iiu limition tii the norih, lor a (hstiince olO inilcs,
to Cape Cameron, which is tohned hy a low toligne of land pfojeetina into tlie sea.
From this Cape the coast trends W. '.]° S. a distance of '20 leacues, to Punta Castilla,
or Cape Honduras: it is all ch-an, and also deeper than the anterior coast, so thiit it
should not be appronclied into less tlian 7', liithoins water.
Punta Castilla is low ; and a small sand bank, with very little water on it, extends (Von,
it one (juartorofa mile to the westward. Castilla is tlie north point of the Bay o( Tnix.
illo , wliich i\t tlie entrance is about 7 miles wide. This liay is easily entered, as there
is nothing to be guarded against except the little bank oil' Point Castilla. On the soiiih
coast of the bay there is a high mountain, railed CJiiaiinoreto, which may be seen atiht
distance of i»4 leagues. In making the bay Irom the olTing, tiiis mountain is a gooj
mark for riiiming in by; for, by bringing it to bear about S. S. E., or S. K-by .'*'., it will
lead clear of Point Castilla, and up to the anchorage off the mouth of the River ('ris.
tales, which falls into the south side of the bay. This anchorage seems preferable, not
only because its contiguity to the river affords the opportunity of procuring water con-
veniently, but also, because from this spot Point (.'astilla may be easily cleared, in (';i>e
of being obliged to get under way by ti gale from W. S. \V., west, or W. N. W. ; whenc*
it blows most frequently from October or November until Febrtinry. With such winds
a simple inspection of the ])lan of the bay will show that there nmst be a heavy sea inii;
and tliis was experienced in the ship Maria, in J)ecember and January 1800, which hav.
ilig rode out one or two of these gales al anchor, was afterwards under the necessity of
quitting and taking shelter in Port RoviU, in the Island of Rattan, as her captain con-
sidered the ancdiorage of Truxillo too ha/ardous to femain at during the season of the
Norths, which was the seasfin he was in it.
To enter in or sail out of this bay, no particular instructions are necessary, as there is
plenty of room for working without the smallest risk, oliserving oidy not to approirh
Blanquilla or St. Lucas Key, nearer thati half a mile: this key is off the south coa-;!,
about two miles outside the bay, and is surrounded by a bank, with little water on it, the
best guide towards which is the lead. Take care not to get into less than 5.'v fathoms in
its vicinity, and you will avoid every danger. Blanquilla lies about a mile from the
coast, and you may run through the channel between, without any other guide than the
lead. It was heretofore believed that this bay was well sheltered, and a good place of
refuge during the storms of winter; but this is not the fact, and any vessel stationed ou
the coast at that season ought to prefer Port Roval, in Rattan, to it.
GUANA.IA, OR BOXACCA.— North from'Point Castilla, at the distance of eight
teagues, is the Island of Guanaja, about three leagues In length N. E. and S. W. Itij
entirely surrounded by keys and reefs, which extend a league olf from it. On the east
side of the island there is a very good anchofagc, particularly during the north wind^:
but it will be necessary to pass between the keys and reefs to enter it. The best pas-
sage is to the southward, leaving tiie southernmost key on the larboard, and anotlierkcy
fying N. by E. half a mile from it on the starboard. Endeavor to pass in mid-channei,
and steer towfirds another key that lies two thii'ds of a mile west from the northernmost
of those you have passed. It will bear from you about N. 71° W. You ought alwavs
to pass between the two last mentioned keys, and then nothing remains but to coast
along the island to the N. E., and anclior at any convenient place after getting under
shelter of the land ; observing to keep about the middle of the channel between tlie
island and the keys, \n 7, 8, and ') fathoms water, on muddy sand. It may be necessary
sometimes to run for this anchorage in blowing Weather from N., N. W., or W.. which
tvill not permit of entering it on one stretch. In such a case, however, it may be ob
served that you may work between the three keys before mentioned, on the supposition
tliat it will be sufficient to give thein a berth of a cable's length. The plan of the har-
bor will clearly elucidate what has been said of it.
RATTAN. — Westward of Guanaja is the Island Rattan, about 10 leagues in length
from E. N. E. to W. S. W. A reef runs off eastward from the east point, to the dis-
tance of 12 miles, on which there are several keys and islands ; of these, the easternmost
is called Barburel. The distance from Barburet to Guanaja is about 10 miles ; but the
channel is reduced to 5 miles only, by the reefs which extend from both islands: without
great experience, the ])assage through it will be attended with great danger. All the
North Coast of Rattan is bordered by reefs that prevent its being safely approached nearer
than a league ; and those not well acquainted with the coast, should keep at a still
greater distance. On the South Coast there are several good roadsteads, but most of
tliem are difficult of access from the foul reefs at the entrances. Of all these harbors,
BLUNT's AMEItlCAX COAST PILOT.
511
tr(!; so tlint (nni
iblcsuiue uiid diin.
.A. — From Hhck
istiincf of ') inilfs,
in;; into tlie sim.
to Purita t'iistilla,
ir coabt, 80 that it
)n it, extends from
tlu-l^uyof Tnix.
enterod, as there
la. On the souih
nay be seen at iht
lountain is u gouij
S. E.hy S., it will
)f the River Cris-
ins preferable, nut
)curing water con-
ly cleared, in mt
^N.W.; whence
With such winds
: a heavy sea inii;
' 1800, which bv.
pr the necessiiv oi
s her captain cnn-
the season of the
-essary, as there i)
' not to approa'li
f the south coa*!.
tie water on it, the
an 5,- fathoms in
a mile from the
vr guide than the
i a iiood place of
essel stationed on
distance of eisht
andS. W. Itii
1 it. On the east
the north winds:
t. The best pas-
and anotherkey
IS in mid-channel,
he northernmost
()U ouglit always
ains but to coast
ter getting iindot
mnel between the
may be necessary
v., or W.. wiiich
r, it may be ob-
n the supposition
plan of the bar-
eagues in length
point, to the dis-
, the easternmost
0 miles ; but the
islands : without
danger. All the
pproached nearer
d keep at a slill
;ads, but most of
all these harbors,
ihst railed Port lloyal, on th^ easfern part <»f tlie island, U tlie principal ; and of which
mention was made when dcscnbiim liic Itny <>t 'i'ruxillo, as \w\i\a, well ad.ipted for af-
foniin); shelter durinR (he season nl tiic nortlis. It is formed by the coasts of the island
nil the north and west, and by some re it's and keys on the Moutli and east: the entramn
to it is by a narrow channel, scarcely half a cable's jenj^th wide, between the reefs; but
loriunatcly, this uarrov -ss is not more than a cable and a half's lentil. The east .side
of this channel is lormed by a reef exiendinu; from the west side of tlie island called Lein,
which is easily distin£;uisliai)le (rom iissi/.e, and caimot be mistaken lor the other keys,
which are very suiall. In attempting to enter this Ijarbor without a pilot, it will be ne-
cessary to murk the tntrunci- by boats or otherwise ; and it oufjht always to he dcme with
the wind from N. K., easterly, or from west, southerly, in order to m't clear within the
reef: we re'er to tlie Plan o( the harbor, but it must be mentiutied, we cannot i;uaranteo
the correctness of it. In approaching the island Iroiu the southward, j^reat caution is re-
fjiiired to avoid a mc/i'i/ shoaL nearly opposite the western extremity of it, at the distance
of more than 4 miles from the coast : the channel between it ami the coast is also ob-
structed by severni olhfr slioah ; and although there is a passage for large ships, yet with-
out M .^xt)erienced pilot, thi'V should always pass on the outside of it.
FK(J.M TfirXILLO WKSTWAIil).— From the KiverC;ristales, in the Bay of
Tnixillo, the coast trends :ibout 8. Tj"" \V. a distance M leagues, to Triunfo de la Cruz,
or 'riiumph of the Cross. This coast is (/(iri^civiin, on account of several rerfs and shonls
which extend from the south side of I'tila; lor which reason, if there is no cause for
keepine near the shore, or you have not the requisite experience for making the passage
witliuut risk, we stronsrly reconuneiid a course always to the northward of both the Co-
chinos and the Island Utila.
THK COCHINOS are two rather large islands, clean on the north side, hut with
'^rious (oul keys and reefs on the south : between these islands and the keys there is a
regular anchorasje, respecting which, the only information we possess is a plan, that, on
examination, will present all the instructions requisite.
LTILA ISLAND lies about N. 7'P W. from the Cochinos, at the distance of 23
miles: the north, south, and west coasts of it arc Jouly but the East Coast has a good
anchorage; to enter which safely, much experience is requisite. To the S. W. of this
island, lies a shoal, called the Sahnedina, of more than .3 miles extent ; on account of
wiiich, when going to the northward of Utila, observe to approach it no nearer than two
leagues until you are abreast of its western points; you may then run down for the coast
about Punta Sal : in doing which, a S. W. by W. ;\ W. course will coimteract the effect
of the current, that hereabout sets N, \V., and might otherwise drift the ship into some
difficulty with Long Reef.
THE TRIUNFO DE LA CRUZ is a point whence the coast rounds to S. S. W,
and S. about 7 miles, and then bends to the N. VV. for a space of 2'2 miles further, to
Punta Sal, forming a great bay, sheltered from tlie breezes, and with good anchorage
forships of every denomination. To the north of Cape Triunfo, at the distance of half
a mile, there are some islets, two of which are tolerably large, and may be seen at the
distance of two leagues ; they are clean, and by passing at half a mile from all that is
visible, you may proceed direct to the anchorage in the eastern part of the bay, a little
to the southward of the point, in b% to 8 fathoms water, on sand.
PUNTA SAL. — Tlie iioint at which the bay terminates is called Punta Sal, or Salt
Point; and at about half a mile to the northward of it, lie some high rocks, called the
Bishops, forming a channel navigable for boats only. The Point appears with some hil-
locks and broken ground, and to the southward of it there is a little harbor, called Puerto
Sal, but of which we have no details : however, off the mouth of this harbor, and at the
round of Punta de Sal, you may anchor under shelter from the breezes ; but it will be
necessary not to come to in more than 12 fathoms, because in 17, 16, 15, and 14, the
bottom is rocky; while, on the contrary, in less than 12, it is clean clay.
From Puerto Sal the coast lies about W. S. W. a distance of 8 miles, to the River
Lua, which is large and deep : in front of this river there is anrhorage on excellent hold-
ing ground of clay, but without the least shelter from the norths.
About 8 miles W. I S. from the River Lua is that of Chamalacon, off which there ia
also anchorage on good holding ground, but also unshelterd from the norths.
PORT CABALLOS, OR CAVALLOS, lies about W. S. W. from the River Cha-
malacon, and at the distance of 4 leagues. This harbor is formed by a low point of
sand to seaward, on the west side of which there is an anchorage in 5J to 4^ fathoms, on
sand. The harbor may be known by a high round hill, which is situated close to the
sea on the eastern coast, and at about two leagues to the eastward of the port. To en-
ter this port, you have only to keep clear of what is visible.
From Porto Caballos to Oinoa, the distance is 7 miles S. W. by W. Within this
space there is a small bank, with little water on it, lying north of some red gullies or
w\
1 ■* i
512
btjjnt's amhrican coast rn,0T.
broken i^roun 1, which arn spon on the coiitt, iin I at the distance of about a league undu
hah' from them. To kec|» clcir of this hank, lak«! caro not to ^et into \vhh than eight
fathoiM'*, until you have [i.Hseii ilie red huIIh'm; you may then steer direct for Ohio;,.
OAKJ.V — Tlie harbor of ( )Mioa i^t fornn-d by a btw point of hmd covered with mun.
groves, whiitli projects out to sea. I'pon this point tlicre is a signal tower, or loolvout,
wliich is well seen front sen, and serves as a mark to recognize the harbor l)y. It iimy
also b-! known by the high I ind rising from Oiiioa, and running westward, because IVoiJi
Oiuoa eastward it is all low. 'i'o enter into Oiiioa, we have nothing to say, only ilut
you niay pass at a cable's length from the mangrove |)oiiit, which forms the harhor;
and on getting to the westward of if, you ouL'ht to lulf as much as possible to the sninj,
and east, to fetcii the .south part of the point, with the olije(!t of trying whether you i;in
enter into the basin or raider i under sail; but as it will be necessary to steer norlli fur
this purpos((, the best way will be to get as much to the eastward as possible, until joj
are abreast of the mouth of the basin, and anchor there for warping in.
From tho Anchorage of Omoa, in clear weather, (Jape Three Points may he ippi,
bearing abont W. by N. J N. All the land to the westward of Omoa is very high, m,,)
upon it rise .'{ or 4 summits, resembling sugar loaves ; but the coast is very low, Hnd
continues 80 to the (fulf of Honduras. From Omoa to Cape Three I'oints, tlif i),.
tance is about li leagues, the intermediate coast trending a little to the southward, vo
that it forms a bight, in which there is generally a confused sea ; and therefore it ii ad-
visable not to go too near to it, but rather to steer W. N. W., or N. W . by W., to pmj
well clear of (Jape Three Points. After running a short disiance on these courses, vnu
will see at the N. W. the Southernmost Keys, which lie off the coast of Hacalar, and
which are about 5 leagues distant from ("ape Three I'oints. In all the channel lead-
ing into the Gulf of Honduras, and as far as Point lManabi(|ue, the greatest drplhof
water is 'J.I tathoms. Point Manabi(|ue is about .'5 leagues W. by N. from Cape Three
Points; and west from it, at the distance of a league and a half, there is a bank, wiih
little water over it, called the Ruey, or Ox, to which a berth nuist be given.
(JULF OV HON DlJllAS.— Point Manibi(|ue and the Southernmost Keys of tht
coast of Bacalar form the entrance of the Gulf of Honduras, within which, anil at S. or
S. by E. from iManabi(|ue Point, is the Kay of .St. Thomas de C^astilla, or St. Thomaj
of (Jastile ; and S. \V. by S. or S. W. from the same point, lies the mouth of Rio
Dulce. All this gulf is shoal, but with depth suiricient for ships of every class; but in
navigating in it, you ought to keep the lead going, and have the anchors ready to letco,
if necessary, or if you wish to anclior. The mouth of the River Dulce may be known
by a little insulated hill, wliich is somewhat to the westward of it. The anchonis;p u
N. N. E. from the mouth of the river, in any convenient depth of water, and the an-
chors must he N. W. and S. E.
From the River Dulce the coast rounds to the N. and E. to Point Tapet, wliich ii
about 18 miles N. W. from Manibi(iue ; and thence north-easterly to Cape Catochf,
which, with Cape San Antonio, in the Island of Cuba, forms the south channel into the
Gulf of Mexico. On this coast there is a reef extending to the 19th degree of Iatiiiid.\
on which there rise almost innuinenible keys, with various openings or i)assages through
Ihepi, by which the coast may bo approached. The southernmost keys on this rer?l are
the Zapadillos, which are about 5 leagues distant from the coast. Between this reef
and the coast there is a channel, with a good depth of water in it, but it is full of dan-
gers; and speaking generally, it may be said that all this part of the coast is so foul, and
80 little known, that it cannot be navigated near without great risk. There are not only
the reef and chain of keys already mentioned, but other foul reefs also, namely, Lonj
or Glover's Reef, Four Keys \iee(, and Chinchorro. Some of these lie more than 20
leagues from the coast, and with it form channels free and navigable.
2'Ae Mosquito Coast, from Black Hirer to Point Branna, hy Captain George Countta,
tchcn commanding II. M. Sloop Porcupine, 1786 and 1787.
[The Courses and Bearings are magnetic]
Black River is known by the land over it, which is the easternmost highland o*: the
Mosquito shore, and very remarkable, called Poyer Hills ; to the westward it is all hi£;h
land. Therefore, if when steering in for Black River, you fall in with high land to the
eastward of you, you will be certain of being to the westward of it. It is quite an open
Road, the shore lying nearly east and west : you must therefore lie at a single anchor,
and be ready to put to sea the instant the North comes on, even if you are obliged to
leave your anchor ; as the swell sets in so violently, there would be little chance of riding
it out, and in case of parting, in all probability you will be driven on shore.
The number of anchors left here makes the road very bad, as your cables are liable
j^mii^'^
DLiriMT'H AMEUICAIM C0A8T I'lLOT.
513
out a Icaqnf jimln
it(» less tliiiii cigln
lirrit lor ( tiiion!
covered wiili un^.
towt'r, or lookout,
larhor by. It mny
viinl, bccausf I'rnin
<^ to »iiy, only ili«
forms llip lijirhiir;
tHHibU^ to the !tniii[i
g whether you i;in
y to steer iiorlii dr
possible, until mh
I,
'oinfs may be scpd
a is very hij;li, am)
»gt is very low, Hnd
ec Points, tiif dis-
( the southw.uil, vo
I therefore it is aJ.
VV. by VV., to pan
these coiirsp"!, Will
ast of Hacaiar, ninj
I the channel lend-
t! greatest diplliof
[. from Caj)e Three
ere is a bank, witli
! f^iven.
iimost Keys of the
which, and at S. or
ilia, or St. Thomsj
the mouth of Rio
|every class ; but in
ors ready to letcu,
nice may be known
The anchoranp n
water, and the an-
nt Tapet, which ij
to Cape Catochf,
th channel intollie
degree of latitiido,
r jjassagesthrouch
ovs on this repl';ire
i?otween this reef
lit it is full of dan-
•oast is so foul, ami
There are not only
Iso, namely, Lon?
c lie more than iO
George Countesi,
787.
t highland o": tie
tward it is all hii;h
h high land to the
It is quite an open
t a single anchor,
f'ou are obliged to
e chance of riding
shore.
[r cables are Habl«
to bo cut by them, or in lieavinj; up, to hook one ; In which caso you seldom Ciil losing
your own, as it is good holding ground ; this m;is ilie ciisc with lis lui the 'J7th of No-
vi'iiibrr, 17H0. For the abovi; reason, it is advisable to lie Momewhal to tlie eastward of
(tie Uiiiial anchoring phui-, where you will liiivo clear ground. Should the wind roinu
III tbe westward of north, yoii iiiiist run to Cape (iracias a Dios ; liiit it it should lie to
till! iMsiw.inl, you may go eitlier tu Truxillu or liunucca. Tlie north prevails from Uc-
loliiir to JM-briiaiy.
V\'e aiichoied in 12 fathoms directly ofVtho river, with the Sugar-loaf of I'oycr Ilillrt
hearing soiilli, and C.ipc (!aiiuroii ncsi ; but witli the Sugar-loal lii-arinu; S. .^ \V. ihero
i> 1( M risk ol getting foul of aiicliuis. When the trees on the low land are seen from
till deck, you will liavc HO or ')ii falliuiiis, triiin wliji h it shoals n-giilaily to ') fathoms,
un niiiddy bottom. The entrance into the river is narinw, and disiiiiguishalilc from the
oilier land ; it liau » dangerous hur across it, which can very seldom be passed, excejit
in till" morning, hefoie thcHca brce/e sets in ; and then only in lluir craft : though it is
.siinieiimcs sniuoth enough for a ship's liuat to go over in safely. Iteing over ihe bar,
;iiid ill the entrance of the river, you must procccti up a lagoon on the right hand, about
[\ mile to the town, or Hank, as they call it, which is the principal settlement, and is
vrry pleasantly situated on the left side of the lagoon, going up. Tiiu town is about a
mile long, and consists of only one street ; at the cast cud of it tiicre is a battery of I'i
j;iiiis en barbetl<'.
(mjimI water may be obtained a little way up the river, and plenty of wood ; hut both
must lie got oil' in the country craft on accoiiiil of the bar.
From the IMack Kiver to Cape (iracias a iJios, wc kept alongshore, souudiiig in from
7 to 10 fathoms. < >(F I'atook Kiver, which lies at a considerable distance to the east-
wanl of Hlack River, we observed the Iresli water, w here it joined llii- sea, lorm a dis-
llmt line as far as we could sec, being v«'ry brown and miidily, and had the ap|)earaucc
of a shoal. When in it, we found the wiiler nearly (Vcsh ; at the time of this alarming
ap|icarance there was a Hood in the river.
Oll'tlie Caralasca Laiioou it is slioal to soinn distance; we passed it in f> fathoms,
kt'cpiiig oil' and on, as we shoaled or (lee|)<Mied llii^ water. On passing the False Cape,
liu careful to give it a good bcrlii, keeping in .'> fathoms, as a ihiigcroiis shoal runs otl"
fniiii it; then keep aloiigshon' in o lathoiiis for tiie cape, which appears likv' a bluH'iioint,
with level low land to the westward of it. As you proceed to the southward, keeping
iii-l', or .5 fathoms, you will see near the cape three >.iiiall islands, with moderately high
tiTtsoii them : but they all join the land by a narrow beach : beyond them is a low sandy
ki'y, cmiiicctcd wiili the oilier by a reef, and I'oiiniiig the entrance of the harbor, it ap-
pears !o lie across the mouth ol it. As a spit runs from this key, you must give the
point a berth of about 'J cables' length. There is good anchorage within the spit point
ill 1 fathoms, the said point bearing S. K. distant three ijuarters of a mill!, where thn
I'orcupiiie anchored, having little wind, and I lure being a great outset occasioned by n
fresh ill the river. You may bring tlit; southermiiost point of the Spit Kt'y to bear S.
and the northernmost jioint S. F. by K. distant three <iuarttrs of a mile, and anchor in
i fatlionis.
Ill working u\) the harbor tlic soundings arc regular, from 4 to .T fathoms, muddy bot-
tom. The town, wliicli is only a few huts built for the conveninence of the wood-cutters
s(|uariiig and shipping oil' their mahogany, is siiualed on both sides of tlie llaulovcr,
which is a cut they have made from the river Wanks across into the harbor, the river
running into the sea by the cape. Through this cut, great trees and logs have been
drove, which have lodged round it, and formed a bar about two cables' length off, ovei
which there is barely water for a boat ; and it is increasing, so that it is very probable it will
in time spoil the harbor. Uefore this cut was made, there was dei'|) water close in, and
they brought their wood through another opening to tlii! (lastward into the harbor.
There being a Hood in the river, and conscipieutly a continual outset, could maka no
observations respecting the tide. Jjalitiide observed, 14'^ ,Vy N.
SANDY^ JJAY is the residence of one of the Mosiiiiito Chiefs, and lies about 9 leagues
from Cape Gracias a Dios to the soutluvaid ; it is low l(>vel land, and »inly to be distin-
guished by a gap among the bushes near the beach, which the Indians have cut through
for nearly a mile, to open a passage into a sjiacious Lagoon for their craft, directly across
which is their town, vary near the water side, in tin; midst of a plantain walk, on which,
and some cassada roots, with turtle that they catch in the season, is their cliief depend-
ence for sup|)ort. The coast here trends nearly north and south ; the Porcupine lay in
'i fathoms, about two miley from the shore, with tlie (.'reek bearing S. S. W. i W. at the
distance of .'5 miles; here we were obliged to ride out a gale of wind, with a heavy sea
setting right on the shore. 'J''lii' Bar, wliicli is ol'f the Creek, is not above a cable's
length from the shore, and has a coiitiiiiial iireacli over it, willioul any very heavy surf;
1 went over it iu one of their craft, which the ludiaus are very expert iii managing. Nci-
m
i 3 II
11'
|.(
^tl
514
KLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
.ther wood nor witer can bo procured, except from the Indians, and brought oHin then
'Craft, for the ship's bouts cannot go over tlic bar. liatitude observed, 11° 30'.
It is better to anchor farther southward of!' the Creek, bringing it to bear W. I)y S. oi
W. S. W. for the convenience of getting oil' from the shore, 'llic water rises ami falls
here a little, but there is no regular tide.
TRKBUPP Y is about 7 leagues to the southward of Sandy Bay, and is the residcnco
of the Indian Chief Governor, wiio is considered to be the most powerful ciiicf on the
Mosquito shore. On running down you will see houses a considerable way inland, wiiitli
is the Governor's Town, olf which we ancliored. The land is not high, but has tlie ap-
pearance, from tlic ship, of i)eing cultivated. The l*ofcupino lay in .3 fatlionis, betwicu
y and 3 miles from the shore, and ;> from the liar, and found tinee fatlionis very near in,
The Bar is at the entrance of a small river, that runs winding u[) to the town, and isoni)
safe to be passed in the country craft. It is no better lying liere than at t?andy Bay. as
it is a straight shore. Tiie bearings at the ancliorago were Branginaii's Blnlf (Point
Bracma) S. W. | W., the river's mouth W., and the northernmost land N. by E. Lati-
tudc observed, 14° 8' N. Found a current setting to tlie southward.
Neither wood nor water to be had here, except jirocured from the Indians, and brouglit
off in their craft.
BRANGMAN'S BLUFF (Point Bracma) makes out in a point from where we lay
off Trebuppy, about the distance of 5 miles, and has somewliat of a bay to the south-
ward of it. We ran in till the blulf bore N. N. K. i E. and anchored in 4| fathoms
about 2 miles from the shore, with the river's moutli bearing N. W. and the soutlimi-
most land S. W. by S. At aliout half a mile within the ship there were only 3 fatlimii^.
The appearance of the land is iiiucli the same as at Trebuppy ; there is a bar at the river's
mouth; and at about 2 miles up the river are the few liouses of the inhabitants, who
have a number of cattle and good pasturage, some of which we procured. There are
no Indians living liere. There is a considerable rise and fall of tlie tide in the river, but
at the anchorage wo could only perceive a small southerly current. Latitude obsencd,
14'° 3' N. variation .'^° .')()' K.
Wood and water may Jbe got here, but they must be brought off by the inhabitants
in their craft.
BESCRirTIOl^i of Ihc Swan. IdniKffi, S^r. with Directions for Navigating from Hnlf
Moon Key to Bailzr ; and- from, Enatisli. Key Northwitrd past Mauger Key, Tvrmp
by Capt. Ci. Sydney Smith, ivhilc Commander (fll. M. Sloop Bustard, 1827-18'2!?.
The Swan Islands, two in number, are low, but may be distinguished from the mast-
head in clear weather, ;:t a distance of 5 leagues. They tire in extent aiiout 4'; ii)ili'\
in an E. N. E. and W.. S. W. bearing, and have a passage between them, in which tbt'ir
is only sufficient water for ;i boat : tliey may Ik^ approached on either side with salVtvia
a distance of three quarters of a mile; and at tiie S. W. end of the western island tlim
is a fine sandy bay, and clean bottom, where a ship may tmchor in stifety in from 7 to 10
fathoms, at half a mile off sliore. [''arther west, at from 1.' to 2 miles distant, the hut-
torn becomes foul, with very irregular soundings from 10 to 4.^ fathoms. A i)ank of tlli^
description has been said to exist olf the east end, where the Bustard obtained soitiidin.'-
in 12 fathoms, on rocky bottom, at a mile distant from the point, whence tin,' dc|)tli de-
creased gradually to 5 fathoms, a( half ;i cable's length from tj.- shore, the boats bein;
dispatched to sound round both islands. The easternmost isia . is infested with iiimi-
merable Boobies, its shore no' accessible without great danger, or injury to the boat,
The western island, on the contrary, is well wooded, with several good landing placc>
in small sandy bays, which abound in turtle ; some hundreds of their eggs were collertci!
on the beach in the space of a few minutes ; and several large snakes were killed by tin
boats' crews, found feeding on the eggs. Cocoa-nuts were in great numbers on the north
sid«?. Search was made for water, but without success, though it might probably havt
been found by digging.
Observed latitude of the West Island, 17° 24' N., longitude by chron. 83^ 53' W.
MISTERIOSA BANK.— North, 90 miles distant from the Swan Islands, is the iMis-
teriosa Bank ; this bank has been partially examined by Capt. R. Owen of H. M. Ship
Blossom, and is inserted on the Chart publislied by K. A: G. W. Blunt.
Mr. Allen, formerly first Lieutenant of the ship, says, in a note to the author nfthi^
work, we have not entirely completed the examination of this bank, but believe there is
a small key on the noith end of it.
THE MISTERIOSA BANK was met with by D. Tomas Nicolas de Villa, in his
passage from Truxillo to Batavano, in April, 1787, having sounded in 11 fathoms, on
white sand and stones. The latitude deduced from that observation at noon, places thi-
bank in 18° 48' 42" N. Its longitude is 77 " 2'J' 24 " W. from Cadiz, as deduced iVum
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
515
ins, and brouglit
the inhabitants
I'lintii Castilla, at Tiuxillo, (well ascertained l)y Gen. Don Tomas Ugarte,) allowing
tor llic eirors which Villa ii.lsilit have made in 5 days' navii^ation. Also, on the 11th o''
A|>rii, l^'J-'j. '^- Josef iMaiia .Merlin, Captain of a particnhu- fiif,'ato, called the Flecha,
souiidfd on this bank in his jjassapc from Cadiz to Vera Cni/,. According to his ob-
servations, flic di'pths of ') and i;j I'ailioms were in north latitude IS"^ 52' 4'i", and 18°
ry-y ;i()". His !oiii.'itude was dcdnced from the spot where he had 16 fathoms, on the
eastern edije of the 8cranilla (well ascertained by \i. I). .1. K. Fidalgo ;) and it seems,
afier niakin;: all the corrections for the action of the currents, dec, the longitude of
Misi'TJosa by Merlin is 77'^ 3')' 30", wliich, dillering only 10' from the former, shows
diat I lie baidv is well fixed, and not very fir from its true situation, taking the mean of
the two longitudes, 77^ 34' 37" west of C liz (83° 51' 37" W. of Greenwich) will
i)C that ill which wc jilace it.
TllK ALBION AND MAUD'S BANK, described in a former erMtion of this work,
are without doubt the Misteriosa Bank.
(iLOVKK'S llEEF.— This is laid down from the surveys of Com. R. Owen, of his
Majesty's sliip Blossom, and published by K. & G. W. Blunt, 1833. The bank is in
general very dangerous. With the cominon trade wind the current sets strongly over
it to the westward. The following description has been conmiunicated by (Japt. J.
Burnett.
"Glover's Reef, which has two sand spots on the north end, lies nearly south from
Hat Key, distant 15 miles, trending thence S. S. W. i W. to the south end of the reef,
(jii which there are five islands or keys. 'J'lieso iiiay easily be known from the SDUth-
crn four keys, as they are quite bold on the south side. The keys are very little de-
tached, and nearly all of the same height, with numerous cocoa-nut trees on them. IC,
from want of observation, and strong current, you may have gotten to the southward of
Glover's lleef, and the wind be so far to the northward that you cannot sail north for
Key Bokel, night coming on. you should anchor to leeward of the key, where there is
good ground, in from 7 to 17 fathoms, within half a mile of the keys, and thei-e either
wait for a wind, or till you send into English Key for a ])ilof."
ISALIZE, OR BELIZE. — Pilots for Bali/.e arc always in readiness at Half-moon
Key, (the S. K. Key,) on the east en<l of which stands the lighthouse, whose lantern is
elevated about 50 feet above the sea, wiiicli may be seen in clear weather when 4 leagues
distant — a circumstance that causes this route to Balize to be generally preferred —
though in the season of the north winds, that is, from October to March, it is considered
J)V some, and with apparent justice, best to make Mauger Key, the northern key on
Turneff, from which you may nm with a fair wind S. S. W. 6 leagues to English Key;
whereas, i)y approaching Half-inoon Key at this season, the prevailing winds will not
allow you lo fetch Key Bokel from Hat Key Reef, and also gives you a dead beat tj
Kii^iishKey. It has been recommended by some to make ]?onacca in lat. 16° 35' N. ;
but this island is surrounded by reefs, which circumstance, ''jmbined with the strong
southerly currents at the season alluded to, when gales from the i\. and N. W. may be
frequently expected, renders it a coast rather to be avoided, particularly as the only port
imcleryour Ice would be New Port Pvoyal, in tlie soutli side of Kattan — a most desirable
port for persons acquainted — hut the entrance lies between reefs, and is intricate, and
pilots are seldom to be obtained.
Observed latitude of the lighthouse on llalf-moon Key, 17° 12' 30" ; longitude by
chronometer, 87" 27' 10" V/.
HAT '(EY AND REE1<\— W. S. W. of Half-moon Key lies Hat Key, which is
wooded, p..d resembles, in form, a coronet. A dangerous reef extends from this key S.
I)V E. 3 n-iles, to clear which, when 2 miles south of Half-moon Key, they steer S. S.
W. J W. 10 miles. From the edge of the reef to Key Bokel, the course is W. or
W. I N., according to the wind, 7 leacues.
KEY 150KEL AND ANCHORA(tE,— Key Bokel may be known by its fme sandy
beach and three or four cocoa-nut trees, and may be rounded at half a mile distant, but
not nearer. Should you wish to anchor, a clear sandy bottom will be found, with from
10 to 4 fathoms, the centre of the key bearing from E. by S. to S. E. : the E. S. E.
bearing is preferred. It is advisable to give a good scope of cable at once, as from the
edge of the bank being very steep, you are liable, mease of squalls or fresh breezes from
the eastward, to drive off it before you could liavc time to veer.
ENGLISH KEY.— The course and distance from hence to English Key is N. W.
by N.4 leagues. It has three cocoa-nut trees on its centre, is sandy on the N. E. side,
and bushy to the water's edge on its S. and S. W. sides, lying at the south side of the
entrance of the channel to Balize.* Golf's Key is situated on the north side of the
♦Copy of a notice, dated Lloyd's, Iflth May, 1823. — "Many vessels, at difli^ront limes, hav.
ing been lost on the main reef, when going into Honduras, from being unable to distinguish Eng-
lllil
516
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
channel ; is very small iind busliy, with ono cocoa-nnt treo In the centro, anrl Rnrronndrd
by n sandy beach. To tlic eastward about half a mile is a sand iiatch, called by ii,,.
pilots " Sand 1?orc," nearly even with the water's edge, and requires a good berth \n
rounding. The anchorage is m from 8 to 4 fathoms, with Gofl's Key bearing frmiiN,
by W. to N. by E., or tiie keys to the northward and Goff's Key in one. From this
place, unless perfectly ac(iuairited, you cannot proceed without a pilot.
There is also anchorage in 4 fathoms at ".Toe's Hole," under TunielV, as far iionh
from Key Hokel as to have English Key bearing N. W. by W. The d('i)th of watPil,,..
tweeu English and Golf's Keys is 20 fathoms. Pilots ate generally found on the formci
of those keys, waiting the arrival of vessels coming in from the northward.
The course in mid-channel from English Key to IJali.e is abput W. N. W. till ihr
west end of Water Key bears north ; thtMi haul up to N. hy W. or N. N. W. till (inii's
Key is on with AVater Key, which is the mark to run over the narrows in 2j fatboms;
then N. W. and N. W. l)y W., hauling to the northwaril after passing the middle
ground, which has only 10 feet water on it, and lies from 2 to '2}j miles from Jiiijizi,
From the Narrows you will find 7 fathoms, decreasing gradually as you approach ^\\c
anchorage. The marks for anchoring off Bali/.o are the steeple of the church dp
with the centre of Government House, and the south end of Fort George, sitiiatefloiu
low dat island, bearing N. W. \ W., where you will have 2^ fathoms, on mu'lily bottoiii.
Ships of a greater draught of water lie at a considerable distance from thi; town, and
proceed to it through a wider and deeper channel than the one described, having in it 3
iathoms and upwards.
The current in the anchorage sets to the southward, at the rate of one mile per hour,
with a rise and fall of two feet.
Supplies of all sorts are of a very inferior description. Vegetables are seldom to be
juocured, and never but in very small quantities. IJeef is also inferior and very scarct.
Turtle alone is abundant. The water is not good for a voyage, unless taken froinnbom
14 miles up the river, except during the rainy season, when it may be had pcrl'ectlv
fresh two miles from its mouth.
MAUGER KEY.— The course from English Key to Manger Key is N. E. by N.(
or 7 leagues. It lies in latitude 17'^ :i(>' 15" N., and longitude S?*^ 4'2' 30" W., hein;
the northernmost key on Turnelf, Avith a reef extending from it N. N. W. two niiics,
To the S. S. W. is Crawl Key, at the S. W. eiul of which there is anchorage dniir
the regular trade winds, in 4 or 5 fathoms. To the eastward of Crawl Key lies Tllre^
cornered Key, all having a great resemblance to each other, Maugcr Key being the
smallest, and, as before stated, the northernmost.
From Port Royal, Jamaica, to the Bay of Honduras, and thence to the Island of Coim-
met ; by Capt. Wm. Sandoni, K. N., in the years 182() and 18ii8.
[The courses and bearings arc nianjnetic]
SWAN ISLANDS.— Left Port Royal for Halize, Honduras, on the 24th of .Tunr
182f>. Having some doubts as to the true situation of the Swan Islands, as tliey ar?
laid down directly in the track from .Tamaica to Rali/.e, I determined on making them,
which was done at 8h. 3flm. A. M. of the 2Gth. After making the east end, I ran down
the north side, which is bold, and may be ap|)roached with safety to the distance ofiiaii
a mile, until within three quarters of a mile of the west end, where s'loal water and dan-
gerous rocks lie off full one mile and a half. The easternmost of thesu islands is noi
low, and may be seen in clear weather 18 or 20 miles off. I observed from the mast-
head, in coasting along the north side of these islands, that the discolored water extended
a full mile off from the E. S. E. part, along the south side to the west end, whne it
extended off full ll mile. They are two distinct islands, connected by a reef of nicU
and well wooded, the trees on the easternmost being moderately high. The latitudrol
the eastern end is 17" 22' ;5()"N.; the longitude, by chronometer, from Port Royal, be-
ing 6° 56', makes this end in 83^ 48' W.
From the Swan Island towards Balize, it is necessary to guard most particularly against
the influence of the currents in running down to the shores of Honduras. They are
entirely influenced by the winds, and change their direction when the wind changes;
hut on approaching the shoals, reefs, and keys, south of Balize, you will generally find
a strong current setting to the northward, which must be guarded against by frequent
observations during the night. The south-easternmost of the southern four keys is
lish and GofT's Keys (between which is the only ship channel into Bnlize) from the many dllur
keys on the main reef. Major (icnerul Codd, his Majesty's Superintendent, has caused a flag-
staff, GO foot high, with an octagon figure on the top, to be erected on Entlish Key.
(Signed) '• JOHN YOUNG, Agent for Honduras."
^iBSfcv^!
BLUNT 3 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
517
I, and Kurronndf'ii
;;h, called l)y \\\f
I a good berth in
f beaniig frum N,
I one. From this
t.
ineO", as far north
ilepth nl' watPilip-
iind on tlic tonnpr
vard.
kV. N. W. till thr.
N. W. till Cnli's
ws in 2\ latlioiiis;
assing tlie iiiiildln
tides I'ntni IV.ilizc.
you approat-li ilic
of the church m
;orge, situated oin
on niui'ily bottoii;.
from th( town, and
ibed, having in it 3
one mile per hour,
;s are seldom to be
or and very scarce,
ss taken from nliuii;
iy be had pcrl'ectiy
3y isN. E. byN.('
42' 30" W., hcin;
. N. W. two miles,
k anchorage duiiiij
wl Key lies Three-
ger Key being the
the Mavd of Co:u-
d 1823.
1 the 24th of Jiinf,
slands, as they flt?
Id on making them,
last end, [ ran down
Ithe distance of lull
loal water and dan-
Ithesu islands is not
led from the mast-
ired water cxtenileil
[west end, where il
by a reef of r(ick«,
11. The latitiulrol
im Port Royal, he-
[particularly against
Vduras. They are
jhe wind changes:
will generally (mi
Igainst by frequent
Ithern four keys is
ifrom llic ninny otlur
It, has caused a Hag-
|h Key.
Int for Honduras.'
Half-nioon Key, bo called from the form of the sandy shoal projectino; from h. Oi\ this
|(,.'y tlie lightlidusi' is placed, in hit. 17 ' li' 130" N., and loii;;. H7^ 27' 10'' W., by chro-
iiiiiiH'ter. lleri! the pilots for Dali/.c icside.
Tlie approach to 15ali/.e from the Onter Keys is too difficult to be attempted by any
one not having a thorough and practical knowledge of it.
On Itaviiig Port Koyal, .lannary "Jlst, instead of steering lo the southward of west
for the ])urpos(? of making Katlaii, and tlirreiiy ensuring a more certain route to the
jiuhtliouse, (on Half-moon Key,) off i>ali/e, I was mider the necessity of keeping to tlie
iiorthNvanl, to communicate near ('o/.uimd; conse(|iieiitly ran down on the eastern reef,
and found myself much perplexed in conse()Ucnce of a very strong current, which ran
to the N. N. W. ui)W4rds of 2 miles an linnr. 1 could not ascertain the; latitude of tho
North Key on the Kasteni Kcef; but ran aloiu; by liie eastern edge of ijie reef.
The ])ilot was rtu-eived as usual at tin; lii;htliou.><', and sail made for Knglish Key, past
Hat Key, and Key Uokel. At this time tlie remarkable cocoa-nut trees, with a s])acu
hetwoen, showing the clear light, sufficiently ])oint out Knglisli Key. 1 weiglied from
Knelish Key, and sounded along the shore of Tiirnell' to Maiiger Key, and now con-
firmed an oiiinion f formed two years since, namely; — that ratlu'r than beat about out-
side, T would endeavor to make iMau<fer Key, (which I would also do, if I had made tho
North Key on the Kastern Keef,) and run along the western side of Turned", at the dis-
tance of from 2 to 4 miles oil'. When about 12 miles to the southward of Mauger Key,
you will see two or three remaikable hillocks on T'urnetC: from these hillocks ICnglish
Key will bear about W. by .S. From lienee you may steer across to Knglish Key, with
less chance of mistaking it, attending to the ibiegoing remarks. — iianudy, the space be-
tween the cocoa-nut trees. The course from Manger Key to Knirlish Key is S. S. W.
20 miles; but I imagine there is a great risk of a stranger's bein?.', bewildered, from tho
similarity of the Keys near Knglish K<'y, by steering directly for it; and therefore rc-
coiiimend running alony the 'J'nrnel!' shore, as above, in preference.
ANCIlOUACJh: AT KiMtLISII KKV.— In anchoring at Knglish Key, fake your
soundings from Golf's Key, and rouiul towards Knglish Key, as there is a dangerous spit
otV the iatter, called by the pilots, the Sand Dore. With Knglish Key bearing S. W.
i S. and Golf's Key N. by W. there are 5 lathuiiis.
I have several times worked from tlu; above anchorage to IMaugcr Key, and always
found a southerly set; it is, however, iiilhienced by an ebb and (low of the water, but
not very strong. In the Esjiiegle 1 worked close to the eilge of the reef oil Mauger Key,
and consider it about 2 miles off; and at night made the edue of tht reef when about
2 miles to the northward of it, and 4 from Mauger Key. Therefore, unless very dark,
by keeping a good look out, ymi may see it in time to avoid danger.
I must here caution navigators against a strong current, which almost always sets be-
tween Mauger Key and the opposite keys, about N. W. : when standing to the north-
ward, I have most unexpectedly been set on the lee shore, when 1 thought mysidf many
miles olF it. This current sometimes sets westerly, and then to the southward.
I beat up to the northward during the night, keeping much to the southward and east-
ward, to avoid the danger of going near the Triangles. Early in the morning sail was
made to the northward, and the northern end of Ambergris K(;y closed on, without hav-
ing seen the Triangles: nor had we much northern current during the night. 1 must
here remark, that the whole of the shore of the Ambergris Key has a reef about a ((uar-
ter of a mile, or a little more, off, in many places dry, and the sea breaking on till of it.
I continued working to the north towards the Island of Cozumel. The coast of Ha-
calar is bold, and may be approached in some places within one mile; there is a reef all
along it, which, both by the colnr and breakinsj;, plaitily indicates itself; ;uid off some of
the projecting points they are plaitily seen i)roaking at a considerable distance off. You
have no soiindingsi outside the reef, nor any means of ascertaining your ap[n'oach to it
in the night.
AMllERGRTS KEY.— The long isle called Ambergris Key, to the northward of
Balize, is said to abound with extensive fresh water lakes; to jn'oducc logwood, and the
more valuable kind of dye-wood, natued lirasiletto. In most seasons it is plentifully
stocked with many kinds of game.
EL CHINCHONO.— The shoal called the NORTHERN TRIANGLE lies at tho
distance of l.*] leagues to the northward of Mauger Key. Gajitain liurnett says, when
the trade wind prevails, a current, often very strong, sets down between Mauger Ivey and
the Triangle; there dividing itself, it sets to the southward, between Tunuii" .ind the
Main Reef, and, to the northward, between the Triangle Reef and Ambrrgds Key.
With a wind from E. to E. S. E. as you sail to leeward of tlie Triangle, you \mI1 have
a strong current in your favor.
The south end of the Triangle Reef is from four to five juiles broad ; it makes in two
points, between which there is a sandy spot. From the S. W. point, the reef trends N.
518 blunt's amiciuca^' coast pilot.
by \V. J W. to tlic uroat key on the centre of the rcof ; from thenco N. Iiy E. to jIk.
two keys on tlie iiortl) end. The course along chore to Coznmel is N. by K, .', K. jiu,!
the shore (iretty I)ohl.
COZUMIUi ISLAND. — On first makins tlie Island Cozumel, from tlic nortli-wcsi
end l)cin<i mnch liiiilier tlinii tlie soulJiern. \(iii iire inclined to think the island lies near-
ly east and west : hut, on a nearer approacl), il will he found to lie nearly in a N. K. mni
S. W. direction, 'j'here is ^ood anclioraiic all alons; the west side of the island at ahom
" ^ - ?^ •.. -
..., itrary direction alonir from the edge of tlie hank. On lirst
Beeinjr this, I was somewhat alarmed; hut on (indinn; the cause, the alarm ceased.
ANCHOR A(! K. — 'Pin! Kspiej^le anchored in the first bend of the coast to the south-
ward of the N. \V. point, having that point bezying N. by E. and the southern extreme
S. 8. W. distant off shore alxjut half a mile. It is necessary to remark that the lam]
from the N. W. to the norlh jjoint falls in to the eastward, forming a long deep bijilun
H miles. About s miles to the southward from ti.e N. W. ])oint tliere is a small lni;oi)]i,
the entrance to which is not discernible till very near il, having about .O or 6 feet of «a-
ter at the mouth; there are many small islels all about it, and an abundance of fislmf
the finest (|uality. All along the coast there is an abundance of wood, and fish inav bp
••aught: in some jilaces the seine may be hauled, but generally speaking, the beatlii>
lined with small rocks near the water's edge. 'J'he south end of the island is low, ami
has a long sandy spit piojecting from it. 1 have heard that fresh water is to be found,
but did not see any.
Cursory Remarks on the Northern Part of Cozumcl Idand, hy Ardhony dc Mayne, R. A,
Surreyur, Fchrudry, ]820.
COZUMKL ISLAND is of a moderate height, extending N. E. and S. W. upward?
of 7 leagues, and is about 2 leagues in breadth. Its east side appeared to be free fiom
danger; but off the N. E. point a reef runs out in a N. E. by N. direction upwards m
3 miles: this reef is steej) to in every part ; and there are 10 and 11 fathoms close lj
the breakers on the N. E. extremity. We passed the north-eastern breakers atailii-
tance of half a mile, having 12 fathoms, and rounding then, gradually, stood into aky
on the west side of the island, and there anchored in b fathoms, on rocky bottom, at
about 2}j miles from the beach ; witli the N. E. point bearing cast, distant 5 miles. From
this spot we could j)lainly see the main land of IJacalarto the westward, which is rather
low, with a number of large trees along the shore.
From observations made at this anchorage, we found the N. E. point of Cozuinel
situated In latitude L'U- 32' N. and longitu(ie 8G"' 44' 52" W. The north pan of tli'
island is low and swampy, covered with tliick underwood, but we observed no other than
small trees; on the south Jiart, the trees ajipearcd much larger, but of the fustic or log-
wood kind.
We could not perceive any discolored water or soundings ofl' the east side of tliei
and; but olf the north part, or end, the soundings extend to a considerable dislaii
northward from the reef before mentioned. We found 13, 14, 20, and IG fathom?, oa j
rocky bottom. In latitude 20 ' 50', and longitude Tb'-^ 40', we had 10 fathoms, on rorU
bottom; with strong rii)|)ling caused by the current, similar to the (iulf Stream, the sii
being N. by K. 2.', knots; at (his point the bank appeared to terminate.
We found the current to the eastward of (Jozumel setting N. by E. at the rate ot :! I
knots; but to the westward, between the island and the main, it ran south-westward Jt |
the rate of 2^ knots.
From several ol)servations, the variation of the comjiass was found?] degrees easterly,
The main land ojiposite to Oo/.umel trends about N. IS\ E. | E. to the island Miigf
ras, and is all low and woody.
BLU.NT S A3IEUICAN COAST PILOT.
519
N. Iiv E. to I'lic
by l^. \ K
111(1
till" IKIltll-WCM
isliim.1 lips in';u-
y in ;i N. K. ;iiii|
le island at uhmn
! anchor ui!\v ln'
r, aiitl very stfO|i
iiciruif; tilt; sliiiiv
ijred walpr, iind.i
nset> very strun;
ct with the eililv
e hank. On liw
arm ceased,
jast to the souih-
louthern extienie
ark that the lanil
lonj; deepbifjlitif
is a small hmm.
5 or 6 leet of \v;i-
uulance of fisliof
1, and fish inay bo
king:, the beach is
island is low, m\
;er is to be found,
y de Mayne, R. X
md S. W. upward?
,ed to be free from
recti on upwards n
fathoms close in
breakers at a ilis-
stood into aba;
rocky bottom, ai
ant 5 miles. From
d, which is ratlier
1 r
)oint of Co7.uinel
north part of lli'
irvcd no other tlm
)f the Instic ork-
jast side of tlieisl-]
nsiderable distam'
,nd If) fathom?, 03 1
lathoms, on rocky
uir Stream, the set
K . at the rate of 0
south-westward .11 1
7' degrees rastciiy.
,\hc 'island M"gc
THE COAST AIVD IMVERS OF «UYA]\A, FRO:?! THE
EQUATOR Ai\l> THE A.lIAZO.\, ^VESTWARH
TO THE illLF OF PARIA, OR TR1I\IDAD.
THE COAST OF (iUYANA IN tiKNERAr,.—Tlie coun.ry comprehended un-
der the name of (iuyaiia, extends soulhward from the river Oronocoto the river of
Aina/.ons. The coasts of it are f;enerally low ; as ilm numerous rivers hrin,^; down vast
(luaiitities of alluvial matter, which, accuinulatinj; on tlie shores, Iris formed a border of
low },'iound. This ground, between the hi^li and low water marks, is commonly cover-
ed witli mangroves ; at low water, it appears like an inaccessible bank ; but with the ris-
iiij; tide, it is inundated.
I'OllTlKJUESE (tUYANA. — The Ama/,on is considered asthe first or larj^est river
in the world. Mr. Pinkertoii has said, "amoiii; the grand rivers which water the globe,
and ditfuse fertility and commerce along their shores, the Amazon will ever maintain
the preference." The truth of this averment seems to be un(|uestionable ; the sources of
this river being within two degrees of the Pacilic Ocean, about the parallel of 11° S. and
several great rivers fall into it, these again having innumerable branches. The course
of its grand stream is nearly east across the continent, until it falls into the Atlantic un-
der the etjuinoctial line. The river is said to bo navigable through nearly its whole
length, though impeded by many banks of sand, some of which extend 30 or 40 leagues.
Beiow its confluence witli the river Xingu, at 40 leagues from the sea, its opposite banks
are invisible from each otlier. At Ovidos, more than 140 leagues from tlie sea, its breadth
is about 1000 fathoms. The tide is perceptible to the distance of 150 leagues.
The declivity of the bed of the river, from ( )vidos, has been computed at only four
feet; yet the immense body of interior water gives it an astotiishing impetus ; so that it
rushes into the sea with amazing velocity ; and is said to freshen the ocean, at times, to
the distance of nearly HO leagues from the shore. 'JMiis rapidity, on the return of tide,
occasions a bore, called by the Indians jiororora, which is chiplly observable towards
Cape North, and which sur|)asses those ol'oiliers great rivers. This |)liei!omf non always
occurs two days before and after the full r.nd change of the moon; when at the com-
mencement of the flood, the sea rushes into the river, forming three or four successive
waves, that break mountains high on the bar, and raise the tide within to its greates e'e-
vation ill one or two minutes. It has been said that the elevation of these ridges of water
has amounted to not less than 'JdO feet ; i)ul tli(> oidinary rise over tin; bar, is from 12 to
[') feet. The noise of the irruption may be heard at the (hstance ot' t^vo leagues.
FRENCH GUYANA. — The coasts of French (liiyana are much like tliose of tho
Portuguese or IJraziliaii territory, and i)rcsent nothing remarkable to the navigator; the
whole being lined by drowned niaiiiirovi^ isles and mud i)anks, whicli b'ar tlie mouths of
tiie numerous rivers. The rains on ihis coast jrrevail from .lanuary to Juno, and forin
stagnant ponds and marshes, whicli render the climate very unhealthy. The currents
along the coast are strong and irregular.
The only town is that of Cayenne, situated on an isb; or rather delta, called Cayano ;
hence the whole territory is commonly styled (.'aycnno. 'JMie situation of this place was
ascertained by M. la Condainine, in 1774, from four eclipses of the first satellite of
I Jupiter, cV:c. who has given it as in 4^ 56' 15" N. and 5ii° Ifj' 30" W. a position since
generally adopted.
The coast is in many places dangerous; having extensive banks of sand anir mud wifl»
numerous rocks, some of the shoals reach to the distance of two leagues from shore.
The isle Cayano lies between the rivers Oiiya and Cayenne; the latter has near its
entrance, only 1'2 and l."] feet of water, with soft mu<l interspersed with rocks. The
I town is situated on the N. W. side of the island ; it is generally descrilied as a \\^tclie(l
ilace, the streets steep and narrow, and i)aved with sharp stones. The harbor, wliich is
I a tolerable one, is supposed to have determined the choice of settlers, in fixing on
I this situation.
There are several islets off Cayenne, as exhibited on the charts ; of these the outer
[ones, called the Constables or Gunners, are the most conspicuous; they being barren
j rocks whitened with birds' dung. The Malingre, and other Isles to the eastward of
I Cayenne, arc very steep. On one of these is an hospital for lepers, a malady very com-
mon on the Cayano Island. These isles, &c. aro more particularly described hereafter.
■I.,
i
; i
h
■f
:f
rli''
520
ULL'IHT d AMEllICAN COAST PILOT.
f
IMTTCII AND 151HTFSII (UJYANA.— Dulcli Ouyiiiiiinr Snriniim, extends froi,, thr
Miirri)\v)'iic to llu; ('oriinliiit;, nii ixtciit of I7(l iiuI(.';j; and Urilisli (luyana, IVoiii llmCo
raiiliiio to KsstMiuiho, an extent of abttut I'JO niilcs.
General Directions for the Coasts of Dalrh and British dinjnna.
SliijVS bound (Vuin tlin windward cr ("ailblx'c Islands to tlicso {'(-.ists, .should steer ;is
far to the eastward as S. K. if the wind will periiut, on account of th;; f-n-onf,' ;ndrnii;;lii
or current, setting all times of the year ly the wost'vard, into and ihrou'h the gull ni
Taria. 'JMie nioinont you come on to the outward ' df^(! of the ijround, yon wiM ix^rici^,.
the color of the water eli,wi,;i;e to a lii^iil ^rcun, aii'i will have (Voin ;]ij to Ao lathonis. Ii
iti that depth you slionld be so far to the southward as 7 '2')' or 7'^ oL" north latiiudi,
you may steer in >S. W. and make the land ; but if more to the northward, Ueep) our HimJ
till you attain that latitude, you will have veiy 4;radual soundings (|uite to the shore, Inn
very shallow; you v.ill be in !> fatlioms when you (irst };et siij;ht of the ]a:i<l aliuin
Denu'sara ; but you may riui in witliout tear in 4 lathoms, i)ein^ ai'entive to your lend,—
As it is the general opinion that there are many unexplored sand banks on this coasi, ;i
/^reat attention to the lead and the (piality of t)ie j^rotiud will be necessary, as by ilui
only you will be a])priaed of the danger; for, on most parts of this coast to tl'O fiistwiirj
of the river Oronoeo, tlie Ijiittom is ol' very soft nutd ; if, on a sudden, you f.i:d hard simdv
ground, be assured some danger is near, .md immediatcdy haul oil', till you again <inil>ult
ground as before.
The making of the land all the way from the Oronoeo, as far to the eastward as Civ-
enne, is very low and woody, aiul therefore ap|)ears in all ])arts so much alike, tliattht
most experienced pilots are Irecjuensiy deceived. Your chief dependence thtMcfore is in
a true altitude; it that, liy reason oi'tliiel. weather, caimot be o'ltaint'd, it will l)e avlvis-
able to anchor in aliout six fathoms, wiiieli you may do with great safety, having good
ground, and in general moder.ite gales and smooth water.
The making of the land about J)eiuarara is the nu)st remarkable of any part of the coast;
the woods in many placs bein;; burnt down, and cleared for cultivation, makes tlii!J,\:iii
appear in large ga.ps, wlier;; the houses, vvTc. are plainly to be seen; and if there are iiiiv
ships lyiniT at tlu' lower part t)f the rivt-r their mast -heads may be jilaiuly sten abuve \k
trees, tor some liislance at sea.
If bound iiuo the Uemarara, you must ruii to the westward till you bring tlie entrance
of the river S. S. \^ . or S. by W., and either lie to, or anelior for the tide, in 4 fatliiiiiu
of water ; but be very cautious nut to be iiauled farther to the westw.ud than these Inar-
ings, for *he Hood nuis very strongly into the river Esseipiibo, at tin; mouth of wliuk
and at a ..reat <!istaiu'e from the land, lie many very dangerous sand banks, on soiiieni
which there are not more than D or 10 feet of water, ami the Hood tide sets d-recilyuD
them.
On many jiarts of this coa^t, particularly olT Point Spirit, a league to the castwanloi
the J)emarara, the Hood tide sets directly on the shore, and the ebb sets off to the M. L
It will be advisable, wlien calm and near tlie land, to anchor there.
In the moiilh of December, there is, at times, jiarticularly m shoal water, on thccoiiiiiij
in of the (!ov-d, a great sea, called the rollers, and, by the Jndiaiis, I'ororoca. Itisofitii
fatal to vessels at anchor. The early navigators have been pu/./.led to assign a cause Iw I
this phenomenon, which is occasioiied by tlie northern winds blowing on the shoal water.
It is to be observed, generally, that on a great extent of the coast of (juyana, tlif
sides of the rivers and creeks are alm;)st every where covered \vith thick forests. Tlic
immense plains of natural salt swamps, which he between these forests and the sei
coast, (commonly called savannas,) were also fornn riy covered \\itli forests, whicli li.ivf
been destroyed by means of fire. Much brush woo,], however, has since grown up, the
branches and roots o*' which are so interlaced will: each other, as to prevent pencli^'.liii,;
through them even in boats. The greatest part of these savannas contain so mudi
water, which (lows into tliein during the rainy season, that the greatest heat of the drv
season is insullicient to drain tliem. The land therefore cannot be cultivated.
At the distance of between lU and 40 leagues from the coast, the wind generally pre-
vails from the K. S. E., but within 12 leaj^ les the wind is variable — in the morning S.K.,
and E. S. K. towards noon, drawing round to the east; and between ~> and .-i it is jzciic-
rally to the N.E.and N.i\. E. or north. Jii the iiigiit it varies from E. liy N. to Iv !)}!>•
To get to the windward on this coast, care must be taken not to siilfer the soutlieiiv
winds to take you more than 10 leagues from the land, at which distance you should lif j
about noon; for by two hours after, the wind may prevail so far to the north as to i;iy
you along shore. Uy 8 in the evening the north wind has generally subsided, and tin
wind then blows along shortt fnmi the eastward : therefore, with a whole ci)b before yuu. I
it may be best to anchor and stop for n tide. JJy daylight the wind will be found to linvi [
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
521
, cxt»>ri(1s frciiii ttic
ana, iVoiii (lie Co
•lyntia.
s, sliould steer ;is
; f'roii}^ intli;iii:;lu
roi'.'^h I lie gull III
, you wi'l j)t!nt;l\('
() 45 liitlioiiis. Ii
!0' uortli liititiidi',
id, kce])> our wind
! lo the shove, bm
of the hi!i(l uliuiii
ive to jdiir leiul.-
ks on this eoasi. ;i
L:t'ss;u-y, as hy llui
[\st to tl'O f'ilstwiiril
•on f'.iitl hard siimlv
you again (iud m\
2 eastward as (';iy-
uch alike, tlr.it tiic
eiice therefore is in
fd, it will 1)0 iulvis-
i-.ifety, havln!^ i;»oi!
ly part of the coast;
on, makes the i;\iiii
tnd if there are aiiv
inly
SLon above ilit
hring the entrance
tide, in 4 fatliniiii
ml than these lirar-
! mouth of wliidi
banks, on soim'iii
ido sets d'reclWiiii
o the castwanliif
ets off to the M. L
atcr, onthecoiniii;,
)roroca. It is oto
) assign a cause luf
on the shoal water.
1st of (luyana, tilt'
hi(!k forests. Tlie
rests and the m
orests, whicli li;ivf
ncc grown u]!, i!i'-
revent ])encti"'.lii);
contain so much
lest heat of the drv
ultivated.
vind generally lire-
the morning S. Km |
■2 and 8 it is !;piic-
K.byiN.tolvbv^'
uffer the sontheiiv
nee you shouUi li? I
the north as to lav
subsided, ami tlit |
)le ebb before yuii.
11 be found to Lav
changod to west, southerly : honee the advantage of l)fiiig near shore. Tlius proceed-
ii,<T, and taking advantage of the tides, ashii)nmy beat fr. :n Denierara to Surinam in the
spac- of liiree or four days.
SURINAM, OR DUTCH (GUYANA.— The River Marowynn forms the eastern
boun(iuy of the provinee. Tiiis river, which is but little frequenied, enijities itscll into
the se:' by channels formed between several alluvial i)i;nks. 'I'he nn)utii of the river
above these is three miles m breadth, and the stream is navigable to ti great distance.
OF SLJHINA.M RIVKR, the entrance is three miles broad, and there is a depth over
the barof from I'J to 18 feet at low water, and from 21 to .10 at high water. The depth
within is greater; but this is interrupted by two bars within the river, whirh are exhi-
bited on the charts.
PARAMARIBO, the chief town, is on the western side of the river, between 4 and 5
leagues from sea.
The approach to the town is defended by several works on each side of the river. Of
these. Fort Amsterdam, at seven miles up, on the eastern side, is the most considera-
ble. Fort Zeclant'la. below the town, is separated from it by an esplanade, and protects
the shipping, in the reach of the river before it, which will contain 100 sail.
The river is navigable for large ships to the distance of \2 miles within land, and 60
miles higher for small vessels. The batdis, quite down to the water's edge, are covered
with evergreen mangroves, which render its navigation extremely jileasant.
RIVER SURli\AM. — It is advisable for shijis bound for Siirinaiii, when coming
from the eastward, or long voyages, to get into latitude 5" 5.')'N.,in the longitude of 50°
(unless they have a time keeper, or lunar observation, which may be depended upon ;)
as by that means they will have an opportunity, from observation to observation, of ascer-
taining the current, which almost constantly, off the Marowyiie, runs to the N. W. ; and
you are also to observe that, during the rainy season, you cannot always depend on ame-
riiiioual observation.
When you have gained ground in the above latitude, (and be sure to sound in time,)
60 to 40 fathoms, fine sand, you will be 40 to 20 leagues tw eastward of Marowyiie Shoals ;
and you may not, in the night, approach nearer to them than .10 fathoms, when the
soundings will be gradually coarser. In hauling to the northward you will have deej)er
water and finer sand; and in 10 fathoms water, heaving to with your head to the north-
ward, you will driv clear enough of the shoals to the N. W. You will always know
wliether youare to liie eastward, and conserpjently to the windward, by those soundings ;
for the ground, six leagues to leeward of the Marowyne, all the way to Brain's Point,*
issoftniud. Yourbest landfall will be between Post Orange aiul the Marowyne; indeed
it is absolutely necessary that you should make the land thereabout. The 3Iarowyne
is known by the only high land near the coast, and appears, when you make it, at a great
distance inland, and bringing it to bear south of you, you will be clear of its shoals ; and
had bette; then stand in until you are in .") fathoms of water.
In making Post Orange, which has ot'len been mistaken for Brain's Point, and which
error has occasioned the loss of many ships, f observe that there are many large white
houses, which are barracks ; and in the middle of them, appears a large tree, which,
when bearing south of you, makes like a ship with top-gailant-studding-sails set; and
the tlag-stalf also ap[)ep,rs among the tr.'es ; and those trees show to i)e nearer the hou-
ses; whereas Bram's Point has two large houses, a beacon erected in 1817, and the trees
are on the other side of the river, as shown on the Chart ot" Surinam.
SURINAM. — You will then keep on the edge of the Mud Bank, (well described on
the Chart,) in from 3 to -21 fathoms, or as near .-iS your draught of water will permit ^
and you need be under no ap])rehension in steering along the coast, if you touch, as the
mud is very soft; and, on the Mud Ba.ik, the moment you haul to the northward, you
deepen your wat'jr ; for, on the whole of this bank, it deepens gradually, ftom 2 to 3i
fathoms, and then you are on the outward edge of it.
The next mark you have (for you must be very attentive in keeping a good lookout)
is a break in the land, which has been cleared for a plantation, with two houses; the
trees on each side having been burnt, appear very brown, and in making it in 3 fathoms
of water, 4 leagues oti", you will be from 3 to 4 leagues to the eastward of Bram's Point,
* Bram's Point is the eastern point of the entr.TPce of Surinam River. A beacon, 70 feet lii^di,
has been erected about a mile to windward of ihc point, on wliich is a broad tin vane, painted
white. When this vane is first distinguishable from any vessel coming from the eastward, she
may be reckoned on tiie edge of the mud bank. The body or frame of the bcacoiMS boarded
around, and painted white. There are also two ilag-stail's, the eastern one for signals, and on the
Western the colors are hoisted, and at a distance appear to be almost in the water.
t A8 the name of Post Oransre does not appear on some charts, it may be proper to notice that it
lies 13 leagues to the eastward Bram's Point.
66
■ iii
!|
522
BLUiVT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
which forms the enstorn entrance of Suriniim River. If it be eveninjr. or ehf)-ti(?p. vnn
had better haul to tiif nortiiward, ami must anclmr wlien you have 4 lalluiius nf wntfi,
as the current would, duiiii!^ the niijlit. drill you, (should you lie-to) as far to the wi^r.
ward as th ' Saraniae( a ; and n.any shij's have been three or four weeiis beating t)ark to
Brain's Point, although the distance is only 7 or 8 leagues. Nay, lieavy sailers, afipr
beatinjT many weeks, have borne up for Merbice, iinding it unavailinij; to cor tend against
wind and current.
B'lAM'S POINT may be rearlily kuown by tlie beacon with a vane, at a mile to tl.^
<»astward of it, and t.vo lla<;-stalls, which have alreaily been noiieed. Vou will, ont!>
flood, when it bears S. S. E. haul in. keeping the point open to tlu' larboard bow. H\ect.
ing thus, you \.ill clear the shoal that runs out to the northward of it ; and you are inil.
fair channel wav, and niav I'o within hail, wlicii lliere is good anchorage in -1 fall, „ .
of water; observing the best anchorage is wilhin the jioint iiaif a mile. Tlie course l;^
the river from its entrance (o Fort Amsterdam is ,'^. K. On getting within this pniu
keep the eastern shore on board, as then, all the way up, intil you reach Paraniarihn, i<
the deepest water. About three miles within the point, you Inve oidy 2 fathoms nt \m
water; and from thenc<' to within two miles of tlie c iitranee of the C'omowinie, mav nii
be improperly termed the lower bar; it extends about tluee miles.
In approaching close to Dram's I'oint from the sea, you may naturally, if a stranjpt.
apprehend danger from several wrecks that lie on the point ; but these are old ves<f|s
that have been broujiht from i'aramaribo, and placed there as break-waters ; as, at s'lmc
seasons, the sea breaks upon the point.
Having reached nearly to the entrance of the f'omov.iuie, which branches from ihc
Surinam, you must be very particular in guaiding against the lloo('. which setsstrun^K
into the Oomowinie. and whicli, wityiout great precaution, would set you on a sjiit m
sand, which extends from '.'''ort Amsterdam, almost across the ("omowmie. On tlientliei
hand, you must guard against some sunken rocks which lie a little below Fort Ainst'i-
dam, on the western shore, so as to keep betwee'i the two. Having passed the llii:;-
staff, you will have Iri feet at low water; and t'rom thence to the edge of the lr,n. u?
deepest water in the river. It is here that those ships complete their lading, wLiclnlian
too much water to pass over the bar.
kt Tiger's Hole there are (> fathoms of water, which if* ju.st above Governor Frederiri';
planUitioii, called Voorburg. Here you will then have a leading wind up; and by kopji
ing three quarters over to the eastern shore, you will have the deepest water, 11 feet ii
low, and IH feet at liigh water. You may anchor abreast of Paramaribo, in 4 fathom?,
observing that the deepest water is close to the town.
We shall conclude by these general descriptions : — That yon will be near, and m
windward of the Marowyne, with coarse ground; that, hauling to tht; northward, ii;f
ground will gradually become fmer and the water deeper; and to leeward of the shon];,
a sandy coast and ooze • that it is necessary to keep on the edge of the ba-k, in from
2.V to '.i fathoms, and in the rainy season, rather anchor too soon ; or if you are in ihf
least doubtful, or should you sail a few leagues to leeward, even in a fast sailing vessii.
you would have much difficulty and length oftim-*: in turning back; and that, in ob-
serving these precautions, you cannot fail to make the land proprrly.
It is high water, at full and change, at Bram's Point, at 6 o'clock. The flood setsM
the westward, ebb to the eastward.
BRITISH GUYANA. — The River Berbice, as a harbor, is of minor importance,
there being a depth of only 7 feet on the bar at low ebbs. This bar is two leagues iVom
the entrance of the river. The low isle within, called Crab Isle, is so named from th*
number of land-crabs which are found upon it.
New Amsterdam, the chief town, is situated at two miles above f'rab Island, on the
eastern bank. It is intersected by canals, which have the advantage of the tide. The
government and pui)lic houses are of brick, and handsomely built. The entrance is
protected by three batteries.
In sailing for the coast of Demerara from the .northward, you must keep well to wind-
ward, as the general set of current along the coast is W. or W. N. W., about two miles
an hour.
At the distance of 20 miles offshore, the currents vary according to th.j wind, and it
may be observed as a general rule, that when there is any westing in the wind, a strong
easterly set will be found along the whole coast ; and that when the wii.d inclines to the
eastward, the sot will then he westerly.
The trade wind blowing between N. N. £. and 8. F,. causes the westerly set nsiially
found; but as the wind occasionally veers to the northward, and even so far as N.N.W..
particularly in the winter months the easterly current above alluded to sometimes exists.
The flood-tide sets along the coast S. W. and the ebb N, E. Their influence is not
felt beyond eight miles ofl' shore.
BLUiM's AM'JRICAN COAST PILOT.
523
'S!m&:^
As tlu' passiipcfroiii Dciiiiinr.i to lloibirp, or < tlier ports to windtinnl. exposes you to
Uif ;;t'iieral westerly currnit, it is weli t(i ki-ep closi- iiislidri". and take advantaire ot'tlie
inshore tidei; and wlioiild the -.viiids be li'^ht, it will he neccssiuv to aiidior wiiji t~he flood.
("niisiiiu' ti, windward in tlie Araedme, ve lonnd tlie trade wind inidine so iniieli to the
luirlliward as to enahle us to l;iy up i';.,in(l K. hy N., wlicn wr loiuid liie eaxterly set, as
hflore nn'ntioned. rniiMiii<i at least -J' knots an Inmr. This, liowever, is iir)t com-
mon, ;Mid oiiuht not to he calculated upon in iwakintfa passage to windward, uidess the
wind, as previously noticed, enahles_\()U to lay K. hy N. oreast.
The color oftie water alom; the coast, to 1!» nnles oil' shore, is tlii( k and muddy, and
(III iiiatiy piirls of il there are wry ilark pat( lies, apparently shoals, bi;t the soundings on
tlu'iii are the .-.auie as the water surrounding; them.
(Hi't'ie months ()r entrances oftiie diliereiit rivers, the bottom is liard, but in general
aidii;; this coast it is mud.
Ill worUins; to windward, stand no nearer the shore than (bur ("atlioiiis, nor oil' bevond
nine. Vou will then he enabled to take a(lvaiitati;e ol' the regular ebl) and Hood inshore.
Api'ciii-dncc ol' llic Lund i»i the JJcmcrura Lotist. — Nine miles to the eastward of Co-
cobaiiu I'oiiit are hve or six single cocoa-nut trees ; ten miles farther to Uie eastward
are two rows of the same trees, appearing like white dill's.
Twenty-six miles to the eastward of the river
llipie is a hillock, t'ormed by a large cotton tree.
This tuwers above the low land, ■.. d forms like '''^[^r~t^s^^.-^^^^ir' ^i'--^\j^^- 1"^^^^^
a sugar loaf : it is called General niUrruy's tree. ^-;li|2»*'S^-»''i?i!^i^^S»^ifert^^
(ieneral Murray's Tree, S. W. by S. 12'.
Forty-six miles to the eastward of the river
are two hillocks close toitether. They also
I'dnii like su,<;ar loaves, and show theiiiselvjs
above the low land.
Two Cotton Trees, S. S. W. 11'.
Vessels rn the coast of llritish CJiiyann. a!id bound to Demerara, will clearly mako
these objects, as they alone alter tin; appearance of the low laud.
Cii'J) Island, at the entrance of the river IJerbice. v.iil point this part of the coast out,
there be ill i; no other island between Demerara and Surinam.
Fourteen miles to the eastward of Uerbice there is a building close down to the water;
its sides and top are white, and a little to the westward of it is a deep gap in the land.
Fifty miles to the eastward of Uerbice there is a patch ol' burnt trees, having the ap-
pearance of vessels at anchor.
The iiitermediate coast between these ol)jects is low; patches of trees, and a few dis-
persed houses, alone altering; it? appearance.
Tliere is nodan<;er, if the lead is kept Avell goini.
Unless standing in for a harlior or river, do not ■^.Vl into less than 5 fathoms, as there
are many banks but little known inside these sonndin';s. 'i^iere is anchorage along the
The flood selMn | whole coast, but be careful, ifyou anchor off Berbice, to have sufficiently deep waterto
prevent touching the bottom between the hollows of the rollers, which break.
The pilotage going in and out of Oemarara being so heavy, it is advisable to anchor
outside, being 4 or o miles oif shore, and Cocobaiio Point bearing W. S. W. 6 or 7
Tiiilps. is the best anchorajre.
'. .IE H.\llBOK OF DKMERARA.— This harbor is formed at the entrance of the
river of the same name. Point Cocobaiio, which has a lighthouse on it, being the east
em point of the harlior.
It is a bar harbor, the bar running north and south t'rom Point Spirit, which is 5 miles
to the eastward of Cocobano Point.
At hish water you will have on it 15 feet ; high springs 16^ and 17. The vise and
fallis9feef.
Dircntivns to sail for the River. — Being to windward, and running tor the river, keep
at the distance of 4 or 5 miles off shore, in 4' and a fathoms. Sixteen miles to the east-
ward of the river are two very remarkable rows of cabbage trees. Three miles to the
westward of them are seven single ones. These trees have the appearance of white
cliffs.
Having passed these, stand on with the same soundingsiintil you see Cocobnno Point,
which is low, and the northernmost point of land, and has a lighthouse on it. Steer
about west, until the lighthouse bears S. S. AV. ; then steer S. AV. until the lighthouse
bears south; then steer S. AV. by S. until it bears S. by E. You will then have the
river and ships open ; ateer for the lighthouse and you will have a white buoy on your
f
n
»;ii
524
BLU.Nt's AMKRlCAiN COAST PILOT.
left, and a h];\rk nn your ri'.'lit. \ i>ur anchorage i<t ahreasf of tlif' lislitliotJ^P ; It ull|
hear K. !, S. ; at low .vati'r you will liavii 17 lint, 'rii'- llood runs two knots and a hull,
Riid tlir (>l)l) tliri (> liiiotH an hour. 'I'Ik; hoidiii;{ uroiiiid is (;oo<l, Ijfiii'j; niud and rlnv,
In woikiiiiiout you nuist not Initi;; tln! liy;lilliou.s(' to tho w»stuaiil ol'.S. W. by \V.i,r
to fin- soutiiwaid of S. Iiy \V .
Tin' water that is generally usi-d is ain-watcr. Tn tiic dry seasons it would lie ncrcj.
sary lor a ship in want of water to i;o I '• or 20 miles uji tlie rmr, where it is (|uite iVpsd
und :M)()d,
TliP pdots tor this harbor are very co* d, and keep n sharj) lookout for vessels coinii.;-
down, piekini; vessids up 1') and •,•!) nubs to the windward olthe river.
ll is lii'^h water (spring lid"s) at (li-orii^e Town at 111. l.'iin. I*. iM. l^ise at ordinnrv
Bprin^s, ') (eet ; at neaps, H Ic-et. '"'•'> tide eoiuitnies to llow on the surface Ih, liim'
alter tiii^li water, and durin;; s -s runs about thret; knots per hour at the anclior-
age. in the dry season, iVoin .h. ,, . November.
The distance iVoni (ieor^e Town to ill'' Sandhills np the river is about Qii}, milos, hv
Capt. '.) wen's survey. In tjoini; up to the Sandhills, keep the eastern shoie eli>se on lioan!.
alter passiiii; the llals oli I rovidence, until abreast of llowertMdenie ("reek; then lumi
over towards the point on the west shore above (!lasf;ow.
The liLihlhoiise is in lat. 0^-1'J' -JU" N., lon;^. M'-' 11' 20" W. ; variation 5' '13' E.,lv
Capt. Owen's observations.
SPA NISn OR COr.OMRTANGTTVANA.—The most remarkable feature of Sp;ini<|,
Guyana is the course of tho River Oronoco. A ijreat part of the upper portion o( ila^
river was explored, in the year IHOO, by the celebrated Humboldt, who proved its coni-
munication .vith the Rio Nej^ro and, coiiseipiently. with ihe Amazon. The months ul
of the ( )ronoco are of daii'.i;erous navigation, and rc()uire an expert pilot. Seven of tlit-m
are navii,Ml)lc ; imt the cliief is tlir (ireal .Moiiili, (lU)ca ( Jrande. or l!oca dc Navios) «iin|;
is about six miles in width. This is most to the southward, and in the direct course t,
the river. The isles of the Oronoco, or rather its Delta, which is of prodigious n-
tent, are possessed by the (iuaraunas and the Mariusas, two independent tribes of in.
dians. The northern part opposite to Trinidail, is overflowed from the niiildl" o;
January to the middle of .[utie; and, diirint; tjiis season, tho (juaraunaa dwell upon liie
palm-trees witii whi< h it is covered.
The seven navigable channels into the river, already mentioned, have been descriUii
as follow, comuiencini; northward:
The flr.it of tlio navigable mouths is the (Irand Manamo, in the Gulf of Paria; ilu
second is the Catio or e;iiial of I'eilernales, three leagues south of the Soldier's Isiiiiil
at the entraiRe of tlie gulf: it is fit for long-boat.s only : the tliird mouth, named C;i|,iir;i,
is seven leagues to the eastward of Pedernales, and, likewise, is (it only for boats: iLe
fourth, named Macareo, is six leagues eastward from (Ja])ura, and is navigable by snia,!
craft: iMaiiusas, the (iltlt, is 112 leagues to the so'ulh-eastward of the fourth; but l.e-
tween arc many mouths navigable when the river is high : the sixth mouth is eialilei'[
leagues to the soutiiward of AJariusas, and is navigable for small vessels: thescventli, li'm
Grande, or Great Mouth, is eiglit leagues S. E. from the sixth: its breadth is six niiits
between the Islands, Congrejo, (Crab Isles,) on the N. W. and Point Banna, on the S.E.
but the navigable channel is not above three miles, and is crossed by a bar, with 17 kt;
at low water : the approach to this entrance is dangerous, from the shoals runiiini;cil"
seven miles eastward from Congrejo Island, and two miles northward from Poir,!
Banna.
The Flux an 1 TJeHux of the tide, are felt in the month of April, when flie riveris
lowest, beyond Angostura, at a distance of more than Ho leagues in-land. At flu con-
fluence of the C'arnny, 6l) leagues iVom the coast, the water rises one foot three inches
These oscillations of the surface of the river, this suspension of its course, must not be
confounded with a tide that flows up. At the Great Mouth, near Cape Barma, tlic liife
rises to a heiglit of two or three feet; but further to the N. W". towards and in the Gul;
of Paria, the tide rises 7, 8, and even 10 feet. .Such is the efiect of the configuration ol |
the coast, and of the obstacles presented by tlie Bocas del Drago, 6cc.
The currents on the wlude of this coast run from Cape Orange towards the north-
west ; and the variations which the fresh waters of the Oronoco produce in the forced
the general current, and in the transparency and the reflected color of the sea, rarely ex-
tend farther than three or four leagues E. N. E. of Congrejo, or Crab Island. The
waters in the Gulf of Paria are salt, thouah in a less degree than in the rest of the Ca-
ribbean Sea, attributed to the small mouth (Bocas Chicas)of the Oronoco, and the mass
of water furnished by the River Guarapiche. From these reasons there are no salt pits I
on this coast.
The navigation of the river, whether vessels enter by the Great Mouth or by the lahy-
rinth of the Bocas Chicas, requires various precautions, according as the bed may be
full or the wat
luis liiiig been
iiiNlied the |il
similar, and ai
the vernal • ijii
crease of the
re'iioii.H. Tlii
Ne;iro, appear
,i! progress ol
(die pe( ,)lo sa;
ll is, at first, o
i;iiMs its maxin
the end of ,liil
sloulv than it i
Tlie River .
laucli less regii
luiwevcr, to iiK
Iroiii tii^ inoiitl
al the lime win
America can cri
tioii of the groi
liiose of the Ai
results from tin
coiicav.* and coi
very regularly w
suits from the .'■
the risings only
the sun lias cro:
conimence till V
Foreign pilots
who has, in gem
:it 1,'j I'alhonis.
the number of t
the mean rise at
U'lien vessels
January and Fel:
taking the groun
and no buoy has
ol the river, whe
Gena
BLUNT's AMr:ilICAN COAST IMT.OT.
)r vessels comitie
\tion 5" '13' E., U
lave been clcsciiLeii
full or tliP watcru vrry low. The remilariry '»' tlicsc pfriodirnl risings of iIip nronoro
has loMU lit'i'ii iiii oliji'ct (((" '.iiliniriilHiii to tiiivi'llt'is, im llir (imtiIhw iii^s oJ' llif Nilt' liir-
iiJKix'il the |)liil(>Mi>|)!ii'rs ol iiiilii|iniy wiili ii |ii'iililfr:i iliU'ciilt to Hoivf. M'lie cause in
liiinliir, Hiiii acts eiiimliy on all ilie rivers that take their ri^e in the torrid zone. Alter
(lie vernal t i|iiinox, tin; cessatinn ol'the hree/es annoniwes the season of rains. The in-
ri'oase ol the rivers is in pro|)(iriion to ilie (|u:nitity ol water that Talis in tiie (liil'erent
i'(><>ions. 'i'iii^i (|naiiiity, in the centre uf the loresis ol' the u|i|i''r ( >ronoeo, and the Rio
Ne^rt), appeared to nie to extend ')(» or KM) inches annnally. The I'ollowins; is tlie usii-
;ii prn;iress oC the oscillations ol the Oromxo. Iniint^diately alK-r the vernal e(|nin'>x,
(die pel |)lc say on tin- •.•.')tli of iMareh.) the eoinineiieenient of the risiny; is perceived.
Ills, at lirst, only an inch in 'Jl hours; soini'tiines the river a^ain sinUs in April; it at-
iiiiiis its nia\iinnni, or srealesi heii;lil, in .Inly; remains I'ldl, (at ilie same level.) Irom
ihe emi of .Inly till llie 'J')i\\ of Aui;nsi, ami then decreases progressively, hot nioro
slowly than it increased. It is at its minimnin, or least depth, in January and l''el)rnary.
'i'lie River Amazon, according; to the informalinn whieli 1 olitained on its hanks, is
laiicli less reijnlar in the periods of its oscillations than the Oromieo : it uenerally lie^ins,
ii(iwe\cr, to increase in l)ceend)er, and attains its greatest height in .March. It sinks
IroMi tiie month ol .May, and is at the lowest heinht in the months of .Inly and Augnst,
at the time when the lower Oronoco immdates all the snrronndiiiju; land. As no river in
America can cross the eiptator t'roin soiitli to north, on account of the general conli^ura-
tiiiii of the urotmd, the risings of the Oronoco have an iiilhienee on the Amazon; liut
tlidse of the Amazon do not alter the pro;;ress of the osrillations of the Oronoco. It
results from these data, that, in the two basins of the Amazon and the Oronoco, the
coiicavc? and convex snmmils of the curve of proaressive ini reuse and decrease correspond
verv rou;iilarly with each other, since they exliiliit the difference of six months which re-
sults from the, siuiation of the rivers in opposite hemispheres. The commencement of
till' risings only is less lardy in the Oronoco. This river increases sensibly so soon as
the sun has crossed the eijuator; in the Amazon, on the contrary, the risings do not
cunnnence till two months after the eiininox.
Foreign pilots admit ')() feet for the ordinary rise in tho lower Oronoco. M. de Pons,
will) has, in general, collected very accurate notions diiriii;,' his stay at Caraccas, fixes it
;it II) I'alhoms. The heights nal -rally vary, according to the breadth of tlie bed, and
tiie number of tributary streams which the principal trunk receives. It appears that
the mean rise at Angostura does not exceed 24 orSr) feet.
When vessels that draw nuicli water, sail up towards Angostura, in the months of
Jiinuary and February, by reason of the sea breeze and the tide, they run the risk of
taking the ground. IMie navigable channel olten clianges its breadth and (lirc;;iion ;
and no buoy has yet been laid down to indicate any deposite of car''\ formed in the bed
of the river, where the waters have lost their orij^inal velocity.
General Description of, and Directions for, tlic Coast (f Guyana.
[From the " Dcrrotcro do las Atitiliaf--," &c.]
The coast, which extends from Cape North to the (Jreat Month of the Oronoco, which
is in latitude d° 41' N. is very low, and soundings off it reach out a great way to sea.
This circtinistance is the oidy mean of ascertaining with certainty the proximity. Any
oilier mode of recognizing the coast is very difllcult: for, in the clearest day, it is not
possible to discern the land at five leagues off; and the nature of the coast itself im-
pedes a nearer approach than two leagues, on account of the shoahiess of the water, and
the banks of sand and mnd of great extent with which it is obstructed.
The harbors on this coast are the moutl'-: ;if rivers only, all of which have bars, more
, or less navigable; and to enter, a practical i^n iwledge is necessary.
From North Cape to Cape Cassapana, the land is very low and wet, and covered with
la thick wood, without any other mark to iccognize it by, than the hill or mount of
iMayps; a kind of platform, insulated and hilly, which may be seen, in clear weather, at
jthe distance of five or six leagues. Its latitude is 3° 5' N. The soundings hereabout
lextend far out to sea. You may sail along the coast at three leagues from it, and at tliat
Idistance have from 8 to 10 fathoms. At 10 leagues from land, the dejith increases to
[15 and QO fathoms ; and, at lo and 20 leagues distance, there are from 25 to .'iO fathoms,
pith bottom of soft clay, or of fine sand of various colors, 'j'he current runs N. N.
|W, but, close to the shore, varies according to the tide, of which the flood runs W. N.
|W. and the ebb N. E. at tlie rate of about three miles an hour. It flows at six o'clock
on full and change days, and rises from 12 to 15 feet.
The general velocity of the current, outside the influence of the tides, may be esti-
nated at two miles an hour. On this account, in making this coast, it is always neces-
Wry to make it in lesa latitude, (i. e. more to the southward,) than that of your port of
520
BLUNTS AMLHICAN TOAST lMr.<»T.
ilpstiniition. It \h tlip niNtum of thosr lioiiml t(» <'ii)imiiii'. to «Miil<';iV(ir t(i stiiko stniiil.
itiKS alioiit N. K. IroMi Cnpo North, ami '.'U ur'M Wuguvn I'rotii it, Ht mIucIi illMtiitue i||<v
timl Iroin to to /)<) lailimriH of w.itrr.
C.ipr CiiNHcpoiii licH ill liiiiiiiilc ;i ' M' : tn-iir it tlirrpin ii tjrciit Itiiiik of rlny wliicbiv
tends T) or (> IfMmirH tint to (.rii : it-i rxtiiit from N. lo S. is :iliitiil I li-iiuin's ; wiih t m;.;
Tj lallioiiis of water upon it. < )ii aceonnl of this, vessels from llie sonilnvanl nri|,|||_^
fliis cape, oiii»lit not lo rtin aloiij; ilie short' nearer thiin f> or '» ieaunes. After \\\\s»,]
passed this hi-nU, Cape Oraniie Ihmis W. Iiy N.disianI from () to 7 "eaynes; and altli(]i|.i"
fnmi this place it caniiot he discovered. >et ils proximity mny I e ascertained wiiln, ;
any douht : for, stecriiii,' mirtii, yon will deepen tlic water from C> to 1(1 fathoms in hh,.
iiin;; less than a mile; when yon find this filler depth, you oni;hi to sieer W. N. \\
(or even we.st, if tu,'cer*nary,) lo preserve the Hiiiiie depth. It is to lie remarked i||„
when a vessel is near Cape Cassepoiir, and in Ti fathoms of water, nhe oiiyht not tuM
steered so as to mainlain that depih; lint that it is iiecessai'y to .steer north, or evrn \
hy K. until von net 7 lathoins of water, when yon will no longer he aide to see llielmi
from the deck, as it is very low. A(t<'r steerin-^ the same course lor n short lime, n,:
fathoms, you may .steer N. N. \V. and N. \V. witii the same depth : with these cmuv,
you will near ( 'ape Oran^'c insrnsihly, and make it at the distance of -J or .'! leiimiH
wiieii ill H (ir ') faihoms of water. Jh-tween this cape and Cant! (,'asscpour the river ,.1
that name disemlioj;nes itself.
Cape Orange may he known hy a cut point, (I'linta Cortailo,) or rather, more jirnppr.
ly, a point which seems to havP heen cut or shortened, which is on tiie side neM totlie
Bca, and is tln^ highest land to the S. K.of the same cape ; and also liy the Silver .Mdhh.
tains, which form various peaks, appi irinij insulated and detached the one from tlieiiil).
er, and whicli are the more rcmarkalde as they are the first liii^li land discuvered in ri,ii,,
iim from Cape North. Approachinj; Cape Orange, you may discover various reiiKuL
ble hills, over the point which forms tlie cniranee of the Kiver Dyapoc.
Hevond (,'ape Orange the c (ii-st forms a hay, of 1 leaijlies in hreadth, in vvliich tlir •:r^'
river (Jyapoc (lisciiilioi;iies itself, and into whicli also two other rivers of small consiil.r
tioii discharjie llieir waters; the one to the ea-tward is naiiied ('oripe, and that to ii>
westward is called Wanari. Tlie Silver iMonntains .serve not only as a mark I'ur (.'ai-'
Oranjfe, but also for this bay; because, be^innini; to rise on the west coast, in a swainp
country, they tome down almost to the edsieof tlie sea.
The River Oyapoc is twd leajiues widi; at its entrance; and you may anchor in it in,
fathoms, clayey liottom, keepimi Wanary west, at the distance of three ^|ualtll^l|
les'gue. Mount I.ucas is a small, hut tolrralily high hill, on llie point which dindh
the rivers Wanari and Oyapoc. One league up the river, (Oyapoc,) tlierc is a low is|.
and, named Isla de \'enados, which is covered by very liijuh tides, ^"ou may jiiis*!
the westward of it, where you will have ■! fatlioms of water close to the shore. Aiv
the Isla de V'enados, theie arc some other small islands, which do not emliarriiss i!-
navigation of the river. After sailing up tlie river .5 or b leagues, there is a line 1,1,
which serves as a harbor, and in which you may anchor in 4, .'), or G t'athoms of \v;;ifr,
and as near the shore as you please. At this place there is a small fort and a lountn
house.
Ahout 12 leagues to the N. W. from the River Oya|ioc is the River Aiiroiiak, wjiici
also, is of some im|)ortance. Its entrance is two leagues wide, and it has from u to,
fathoms of water. The lands which form it are very low, marshy, and covered wiii
mannrotes. Two leagues up the river, and in the nfnldle of it, there is a low Hiid vi i
•narrow island, of about half a mile in length, covered with wood ami named Fislm-
man's Island. To tho north of it a bank of sand stretches out more than two iniles,i(i|
^vhich it is necessary to give a berth when you enter into the river, '^^fhere is a cliaiiiR
on each side of tin; island. 'JMie one to the eastward has 3 fathoms of water, but thaiio |
the westward not more than 2 fathoms.
Five leagues north of the mouth of this river there is a tolerably higli bare island, in I
shape resembling a half-orange; it is called the (ireat Constable, to distinguish it lioiri
a smaller island, which lies half a league from it nearer the coast, almost level \vitliilit|
water, and which is called the Little Constable.* The Great Constable, (or (hiiiiiet.i
may be discovered 8 or 10 leagues out at sea. Vessels bound to Cayenne direct tlicirl
course to these islands from Cape Orange, from olf which they bear N. N. W., distani
18 leagues. In this passage it is necessary to keep In 8 or f) fathoms. The (heat ton-
stable has .3 fathoms of water all rouiul it, and is very clean. The little one lies E ^
E.and W. S. W. with the great one. You may pass between them in 8 or 9 fathonisoij
water, observing to keep within two musket-shots of the great one, and to leave th<;li
one on the larboard hand.
• These are the Gunners of the English Charts.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
527
\liii'li diKtaiK )' ili.s
k (irdny wliitlifv
»'iis;uf's; witli 4 ;uii!
HoiilliNViiid iirikiii.
[U's. Al'lrr liinii,_
mit'S; illlll lllllldll' 1;
iisccrialnnl \viilii,i|.
I 10 l.itlniiiis ill nil].
til Hicfi- W. N, \V
I lie rfiiiaikcd tlm,
h\\v iiiiulit Milt toi.H
I'l iKirili, <ir t'Vpn \,
lllilf to set' tlie l;ii,l
ir a sliiirt tiiiiH, m:
; witli tlif'sc <(iur>(,
(• dl' 'J or ;> IfiiviiH,
ssfpour the liver i.;
nitlicr, iiinrc |)rnrer.
tlif side lU'Xf tnilie
liy till- Silvfr Muiiii.
In' one from tlitMnh.
il (liscovcretl in cum-
vcr various reiiiarl»;!
ilioc.
li, ill which liio^re
rs of small coiisiiltTv
ripe, and that to lb
,• as a mark lor (';ii-
'st coast, in a swiiini;
iiav aiirhor in it in,
I' ilirt'i' (iiiartdsiii,
point which (iimlfs
,) tlirre is a low i>l.
You may passu
to the siiorc. Alii;
o not ciiiljarrass lie |
, there is a tine In,
C< I'atlioms (if w;;iir.
[ Ibrt and a couniry
ivcr A|)ronak, wliicl
d it iias iVoin o lo , |
, and covered wiii: I
re is a low and veri |
and named Fisiin-
than two inilfsi'
There is a eliaiii!''.
uf water, but thaiio
N. N. W. from the (Ireat Coiistalije iliprc U a rorky !<ho!il, which Mome plarc nt two,
nther-* ill three, and iilju'rs (Veil at Iniir miles disiaiice (Viim it. 'To nwiid this niioal in
iln' principal iei»(iii lor jiassini; lietween the Coiistaldex. '|"||(. i'rciich ship of war r<n
(.iroiiile, liomiil to Cayeiiiie, in l?;!-*, alter haviri4{ passed hetweeii the (onslalde't, Irav-
nv: the «real one on flio Ntiirltoard liaiid, steered N. W. hy \V. for the Mother and
Dniilliters, and soon after dis» oveied the water lireakinc Upon what appeareil to In- rocks,
uliicli liore N. I»y W. alioiit a |ea:;iie distant. At the same time the (ireat Constnlde
Imre K. Iiy S. and the little one S. by K. I'rom this il appears that the shoal liesN.;}')"
\\ . true, ironi the (iri'it Coiisialde, at the distance of lour mik'!*. Its extent may ho
alMiiit five cables' length, ,nnd it lies N. W. and S. K.
The course from tlio (ireat ("onstnlde, to pass outside (lie Mother and Daiijliter^,
HJiich lie almiii (> leai;ni's distant from it, is N. \V. Iiy \V.; with tins conrse von will
»|iii;ilt'ii tile waier, and will not have mort than (> falhoms near the .NIaliii:;re, (one of the
Mnilic and Daughtertj,) near the N. N. K. piirt of which you may anchor in ;> fathoms,
at low water.
Kiiiir leagues* X. W. from the Aprnnak is Kan River, and from it to the Kiver ( )rapu
IS rt'ckoned .'') leayiies more. The Kiver Orapu separates ( 'ayemie on the east from the
iiiiin land, it is a line river, its entrance lieiiiK aliont a leaiiiie wide, and iins ,1 fiithoms,
at low water, 'i'he hanks are pretty hi^h, and covered with lari;e trees.
CAYKNNK. — The Island of Cayenne Ih about nix lesi^ues in extent, from north to
«i)iilb, and its t;reatest breadth may be .'! or I lea',Mies. ( hi the north it is bounded by
the sea ; on the west by the Kiver ( 'ayciiiie ; on the east by the Kiver < 'rajm ; and on the
Miiilii, by a liianch formed by the rivers (trapii and Cayenne, which here unite.
Tilt' ('ity and Fortress of ( 'ayenne are situated on tlu' N. W. point of the island, the
iiniili part of wliich has various hills and eminences, hut the south part is low and wet,
in till- season of the rains. The harboi is to the westward of the city, in the month of
till' Kiver Cay<'niie. The hills, or hiirh lands, of which we have spoken, are named Du
i'liiit, Keiiioiitabo. Mount .lolv, and Mahuri; and all these are dose to the north coast.
A litlle inland are those of Baduel, Tigres, I'apa^uay, and Mathory : and ujioii the banks
ol'tlie Oiiya. that of the Franciscans.
At iihoul a leanriie, or leajjiie and a half, or something more, from the Island of Cay-
piiiic, are the Islets (d' Kemire; they are live in number, vi/„ tin; Child, the Father, the
>liitln'r. and ,lie Two Daiicrhters. The last ar<' two little rocks, very close together,
and ahont a mile distant from the Mother, to the K. S. K. The Father is the largest of
all these islets, and bears F. N. E. true, froiu Mount .loly, on the eastern coast of
Cavrniie Island, 4 miles distant. It uny be about half a mile long, K. .*<. E. and
w: N. \V.
The Child is very small, and lies about a league E. N. E. from Mount Uemoiitabo, and
I'nnr miles from the Father. You may pa^s without them at three miles, or a little less
distance, without any risk, and with a certainty of not having less than 5 or G fathnnis fif
water. Betwixt these islets and the co.ist there is about liftoen feet of water, at low ebb,
hilt the passage is dangerous, on account of a rocky slioal which lies in mid-channe|, al-
most even with the surface of the water. There is also a shallow, which extends between
the Fatlier and Child : this shoal lies N. N. \V. from Mount .loly and nearly east from
Mount Reinontabo. Round the Malingre, the bottom is very shallow, and it is said that
a reef stretches out about two cables' leneth N. N. W. from its western extremity.
besides these isles there is another, at about three leagues to the W. N. W. of the
f'hild, called the Forlorn Hope, or the Lost Child, which lies nearly on the meridian of
the town of Cayenne, at the distance of seven miles.
In order to enter Cayenne, it is (irst absolutely necessary to anchor between Malingre
and tiie Forlorn Hope, both for the purpose of receiving a |)ilot, and to wait for the tide,
so as to pass the shallows at the entrance of the harbor. lietween the Child and the Fa-
Ither, the anchorage is very incommodious; for the N. E. winds raise much sea in it,
j«hich, catching vessels on the beam, makes them roll ns if in a storm. An anchor is
■very apt to drag, and it is necessary to have another all ready to let go ; and often three
or tour days elapse, in which no communication can be had with the shore. In this an-
chorage there are from twenty to twenty-live feet, at low water, the bottom being
of clay.
In general, vessels anchor to the E. N. E., N. E. or north, of the Child, at the dis-
|tance of two miles; but there are some who anchor to the E. N. E. or N. E. of the
"orlorn Hope, nt about two miles distant from it. From the east to the sotith of the
Palter, the depth of water diminishes to l;j, 1'2, or even 10 feet ; and you must take good
hre not to place yourself between it and the coast, because there is even less depth,
* The original says six leagues, which distance appears to be too great.
fM\
528
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
In this '-' je the titles rise 7 or 8 feet ; and it is high water, on full and change davs, at
6 o'clo(
N. \V . by N. from the Forlorn Hope, at the distance of 8 or 0 leagues, are three small
islets, which are so placed as to form a triangle. They are called the Devil's Isjetj.
They form a due and well sheltered harbor. The best aiichorajje at them is K. 8. K.of
the most southerly islet, in 6 or 6 fathoms of water, with a hard clay bottom, nt about a
inusket shot's distance from the islet. In this islet there is a reservoir of fresh water'
but it is necessary to get the water with small kegs, which can be carried, as the roueli-
ness and steepness of the ground render it impossible to get it with large casks.
Between these islets and the Forlorn Hope there are 5, 6, and 7 fathoms of water, ji
3 or 4 leagues from the land ; n(*ar the Devil's Islets are y, and leaving them to the S.
or S. E. you will have 20, ."50, and 40 fathoms, increasing your depth as you increase
your distance from the islets.
Six leagues N. \V. from Cayenne is the River Macouria. The coast between is low,
level, and has many handsome houses. At 15 league^ N. W. from Macouria is the River
Sinaniari. 'JMiis river afilbrds excellent anchorage at 2 or 3 leagues from its uioiiih, jj
which vessels are not incommoded by the sea, because the bottom is of very soft clav,
Nineteen leagues N. W. by \V. from Sinaniari is the River Maroni, which is verv
considerable. Its entrance is about 2 leagues wide, but is of difficult access, on accoiim
of ths shoals of sand and clay which are in it. In this space of coast the rivers lNin;|.
nnri, Aracoubo, and Amanibo, disembogue themselves, and shoals and banks of clav
stretch out about 3 leagues to sea, along the whole of it; so that it is indispensably ne-
cessary to keep at least 4 leagues from the land, in 5 or b fathoms of water. It is also
to be remarked that between Cayenne and Maroni there are many single or detached
rocks, some of which are even two leagues from the shore.
From the River Maroni to Surinam River, the distance is about 34 leagues. Th=
coast trends W. by N. ; it is all so much alike, and so low, that it is totally impossible to
distinguish one part from another, so as to rectify the position of any vessel : hence it is
absi 'utely necessary to make the Maroni, in order to be sure of falling in correctly wiii;
Surinam. This coast, also, has various banks of clay stretching from it, which rendei
it necessary to keep at four leagues off it. The entrance of the Rivcf Surinam, ivjiej
coming from the eastward, may be known by its Crow's-bill Point, which may be seen 3;
4 or 5 leagues oil", and is the only land which, under these circumstances, can be (Ji,.
cerned. It has a beacon on it, as before mentioned. The east shore is that which j,
first seen : the opposite cannot be discerned until you are in the entrance of theriver,ii
being remarkably low land, which, as it were, hides itself to the west.
To anchor in the entrance it is necessary to bring the east point, of which we hart
spoken, to bear S. E. or S. E. by S., at the distance of three leagues, ancJioring thenir.
3,7 fathoms at low water. The tides flow at six o'clock, on full and change days; and a;
the anrhorajie, at the entrance of the river, the flood tide sets from S. to S. S. E., aw
the ebb from N. to N. N. W. The least water is two fathoms and a half. When ik
wind is favorable for entering the river, steer S. E. or S. E. by E. until the east point
bears east ; then steer E . S. E. to anchor in 5 fathoms, on a clay bottom, at a qiiariei
of a league from the east point, which is named Bram's Point, with that point bearic;
N. 92 \V.
At one league up the River Surinam the River Comowinie discharges its waters into
it. The entrance is defended by Fort Amsterdam, on the south side, and by a batten.
wliich is on the north part, so situated as to defend the River Surinam also. On ik
west bank of the latter there are various batteries, which cross their fires with thoseoi
Fort Amsterdam, A little further up is the bar, upon which there are not more than l«o
fathoms at low water. After passing this, you And, on the west shore, Fort Zeelauii.
and the town of Paramaribo, which is the capital of this colony.
Four leagues west of the River Surinam, the River Saramaca and Copename enter
the sea by the same mouth. Tlieir banks are uninhabited, and in their mouth aretwo
fathoms at low water.
Ten leagues west from these rivers, tlic River Corentine disembogues itself. Its eti-
trance is about a league in width, but of dii'ficult access, on account of the sand 'lanks
ofVit, which extend three leagues out to sea. Within the river are three islands, which
are very clean, running north and south : between you may anchor in 5 fathoms of water.
The entrance and anchorage are on the west side. The small River Nikesa also dis-
charges its waters by the same mouth as the Corentine.
Five leagues west from the Corentine is the River of Berbice. It.? mouth is about a
league in width. Its banks are very low, and covered with trees, in the very mouth
lies Crab Island, which divides the entrance into two channels. This island is low and
bushy, and is surrounded by a baidv of sand and clay, which prevents a nearer approac:
to it than at least a long musket shot. It is in length about a mile, and half a niilei'
breadth. Thi
A rocky shoal
tion, as you mi
tivo fathoms ai
[Directions
The River :
islands and sh(
though the isl;
it requires mu(
low, and bush
very narrow, a
the river, xiy.., 1
1.) to '3ii fathou
cluster of them
cliannel that tin
At ten league
the river. 'I'lic
At /ifteen or 1
which is about
east point of the
cm side, is tlie
stands at the foo
From the Ri
Point, wliich foi
nut trees, which
the than mangn
From Coco T
keejjing in .5 or (1
and a half leagut
will see the mou
mouth is very ne
■■'no other ])oint
not only because
count of three 1.
about S. W. at S(
N. E. from thii
two and ti half fa
jiioalen the water
From the moi
figlitjea,',nies abo
Nabanela, which
l'J»'t'r, and the \\
shallow hank of s(
RIVER ORO;
m lat. 8° 51' N.
^ix leagues from i
'sliind; and tliis
' oiist of Sabaneta
'I'l'th of which at
'''^y- Tlie bar is
J:;, to w.
The coast, wjiii
from Point Saban
poundary of this 1
jfiiipties itself.
J The coast whic
former; low, and
iheOronocodisch
[liecause thev are f
GRAND' MOI
aeed only say that
pa,st at the distan
K'ape Barma betir.-
per, keeping the 1
jin shallow water;
piling on the sho
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
529
d change days, at
!s, are three small
he Devil's Isleu,
icinis K. iS. E.cf
jottoni, nt about a
ir of I'resh water;
ied, as the rough,
■re casks.
horns of water, ji
ig them to the S.
li as you increase
sst between is low,
icouriaistheKivfr
(Voiii its month, m
;)f very soli clay.
)ni, which is very
access, on account
rst the rivers Sim-
and banlis of clay
s indispensably ne-
f water. It is also
single or detached
34 leagues. Th»
r)taily impossible to
vessel : hence it i<
ng in correctly wit':
0111 it, which tenilei
iver Surinam, wlie:
hich may be seen a;
tances, can be div
ore is that which li
ranee of the river, ii
t, of which we have
s, anciioringtheiiir. I
hange days: audi;
S. to S. S. Y..,m'
a half. When th;
ntil the east poini
ottoni, at n quartn |
that point beanr,;
rges its waters into
[e, and by a batter), ]
hiam also. Oti the
lir tires with those (?
' not more than t»t'
[lore, Fort Zeeland,
Ind Copennmeetiierl
(their mouth are t«|
Igues itself. Its en-
It of the sand 'rmiil
Ithree island.s, which
5 fathoms of water. I
iver NikesaalsodiJ-
It? mouth is abonta
[in the very iiiouth
liis island is low aiifi
3 a nearer approac-^
:, and half a mile"
breadth. The bank which surrounds it stretches about a league to the northward of it.
A rocky shoal extends from its east point, to which it is necessary to give much atten-
tion, as you must enter by the east channel, on the bar of which there are not more than
mo fathoms at low water.
[Directions for the Dcmerara have already been fully given.]
The River Ksse(|uii)o is very large. Its mouth is three miles wide, but it is full of
islands and shoals, which obstruct the passage, and render it difficult to enter ; and al-
thou'di the islatids and shoals form channels deep enough for all classes of vessels, yet
it re(|iiii'es much care and practical knowledge to enter them. The islands arc numerous,
\o\v, and bushy. The greater part of them are a league or two leagties in length, but
verv narrow, and lie north and south. There are two principal channels for entering
the'river, viz., the east and west channels. The eastern is the best : there are in it from
1.') to 35 t'athoms. After having ptissed the islands at the entrance, you will see tinother
cluster of them, which it is proper to pass on the east side, where they form so deep a
channel that there are from 40 to 70 fathoms in it.
At ten leagues from the entrance, the fort is situated, upon an island in the middle of
the river. The town, or rather village, is situated on the west side, in front of the fort.
Atlifteen or sixteen leagues from the Esserjuibo, is the month of the KiverPauroma,
which is about half a league in width ; its shores are low, and covered with trees. The
east point of the entrance is named Cape Nassau. Six leagues uj) the river, on the east-
ern .side, is the fort named New Zealand ; the town or village, named Middlcburgh,
stands at the foot of the fort.
From the River Pauroma the cotist trends, without varying its appearance, to Coco
Point, which forms a bay to the south, and to the westward ha.s some very high cocoa-
nut trees, which are the only ones on all this coast, on which, in general, there is nothing
else than mangroves.
From Coco Point, you ought to steer N. W. and N. N. W. with the precaution of
keeping in 5 or 6 fathoms of water, in order to shun a bank of mud, which lies about two
and a half leagues N. N. W. from it. Having run twelve leagues on these courses, you
will see the mouth of the (Tuayama, situate in 8^ 2']' N. latitude. The making of this
mouth is very necessary for those who seek the great entrance of the Oronoco, as there
is no other point which ctm be used with certainty as a mark, and it cannot be mistaken ;
not only because it is the sole entrance or opening which can be seen, but also on ac- -
count of three little hills or hillocks, which may be seen, if the day be clear, bearing
about S. W. at some distance inland.
N. E. from this mouth, about three leagues distant, there is a shoal of fine sand, with
I two and a half fathoms of water on it; and to avoid it. you must take good care not to
slioalen the water more than to 5 fathoms, muddy bottom.
From the mouth of the (Tuayama the coast is woody, level, and low, and trends for
eight leagues about N. W. to tlit; jioint of Mocomoco ; after which comes the coast named
Sabanela, which trends west about four leagues: it ;dso is covered with wood, !ev(>l, and
lower, and the water on it shallower, than the former. All this coast is bounded by a
shallow hank of soft clay and shells, and sand with clay and shells.
RIVER OllOXOCC).— The Isle Congrejo (Crab Island) of which the N. K. point is
ill hit. 8^ 51' N. has a shoal of har<l sand, of the color of ground codec, which extends
six leagues from its eastern jjart, and about two leagues from the northern jiart of the
island; and this renders the entrance of the river dangerous: for between it and the
coast of .Sabaneta is formed the Bar of the Grand Entrance of the River Oronoeo, the
li'pth of which at low water, is 15 feet, and at high water only It) feet; the bottom soft
c!;iv. The bar is about three leagues in extent from N. to S. and a little less from
-E.'to W.
The coast, which is rather higher than the former, though still woody, trends .S. W.
jfrom Point Sabaneta, about three leagues, and ends at Cape liarma, which forms the
Iboundary of this line of coast; as after this it forms a great bay, into which the river
|empties itself.
The coast which follows, from Isla de Congrejo to leeward, is very distinct from the
jformer; low, and all broken, forming different mouths, by which the small branches of
Itlie Oronoeo discharge their waters. They are lit for small vessels only, which have pilots,
|because they are full of dangerous sand banks.
GRAND' MOUTH of the RIVER OROXOCO.— After what has been stated, we
[need only say that, having recognized the Uoca de (Juayama, you may run along the
Icoast at the distance of live or six leagues, in 4 or 5 fathoms, in soft clayey bottom, until
ICape Barma bears S. by \V., when you may .shape your course for the bar; still, how-
ever, keeping the lead going, in order to preserve the soft clayey bottom, although even
jin shallow water; as it is better to get ashore on the clayey mud, than to run the risk of
palhng on the shoal of hard sand off Isla Congrejo. If you catch that quality of sound-
67
i Jm.
m\\
If
1
f^M
Pi
I'M
Ki
i
530
BLUiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ings, (hard sand, like ground coffee, ) you must immediately steer south, to recover the
soft bottom. Following these directions, you will near Cape Burma; and, when about
two leagues from it, you will see a large island covered with trees, which is that called
Isla de Congrejo; and, having passed the bar, you will begin to augment the depth of
water until you find 5 fathoms. When it is proper to steer from S. W. by S. to S. \V.
by W. to keep mid-channel, understandini; that, if you are in less than 5 fathoms, soft
bottom, you are too much on the mainland-si<le of the channel, and must steer more to
the westward to recover the mid-channel; but, if you find less than 5 fathoms of water,
with a sand bottom, you are getting upon the shoal olf the Isla de Congrejo; and, in tliij
case, must steer more to tlie southward to recover the mid-channel. With these di-
rections, and attention to the soundings, you may run in, until the S. E. point of Islade
Congrejo covers some woody islets, which lie off the N. E. point of it ; you may then
run close to the island, and anchor in 5 or 6 fathoms of water, the bottom soft clayey
mud. Moor with a cable ashore, and, in this situation, every vessel will be secure and
well-sheltered ; and it is necessary, at this place, to wait for a pilot, to conduct any vessel
up the river ; for, without one, they may be certain of experiencing some misfortune or
other. A pilot may be engaged from any of the small vessels of the country.
On all this coast the tides are rapid and irregular. They are said to be felt as high
up the river as Imataca, a village of the Guaraunas Indians. As to the times of high
water, all that the pilots remark is, that, at one-third ebb, at the rising of the moon, the
water of the Oronoco increases from April to September, and decreases during the other
months of the year. It is navigable for large vessels up to the capital only, between the
monthsof May and December; during the rest of the year, they must stop sixteen leagues
farther down, not being able to ascend higher; in consequence of a bar or pass, named
del Mamo, which at that time has not more than 4 or 5 feet of water on it; and large
merchant vessels, therefore, must employ lighters to load and unload them, which, al-
though there are plenty of them, occasions much expense.
The magnetic variation, at the mouth of the river, is 4° East.
From this mouth the Delta of the River Oronoco extends itself to the interior of the
Gulf of Paria, rendering this portion of the coast useless, either for trade or navigatioD,
being no more than a labyrinth of low muddy isles, which are drowned in the seasoHoi
the floods, in the river. The number of them is unknown ; and it is not easy to makea
plan of them, for they are all formed by the various channels into which the Oronoco di-
vides, and which may be considered as useless for any thing, except boats and canoes.
The termination of this coast may thus be fixed at the Grand Mouth of the Oronoco.
which we have described ; and we now proceed to make some general remarks, which
follow :
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE COAST OF GUYANA.— Although the whole
of this coast may have no great errors in the situation on the charts, yet it must notbesup-
posed that every point of it is accurately placed : for instance. Point Barima had an error
of 22 minutes of latitude in its position. The points which have been observed are in-
serted in the table of latitudes and longitudes : —
The mariner may confide in the situation of these points ; and it is necessary tore-
mark, also, that, on a coast, of which there is scarcely a possibility of recognizing the
different places, except by the latitudes, it is very easy to make a mistake, and get to lee-
ward of your port of destination. For this reason it is proper to nm down the coast
from windward to leeward, taking good care to make the various places out distinctly. Ii
is also proper to examine the mouths, or embouchures, of the rivers : and what renders
this more and more necessary is, that, in the season of the rains, there are often days on
which the latitude cannot be observed.
2d. If such is the uiicoitainty as to the positions of the points, it is no less in respect
of the soundings at the mouths or entrances of the rivers. It ought always to be remem-
bered that all the.s'e rivers form bars, and that the bars generally have very little waterou
them. The best way for those who have not a practical knowledge of these entrances,
is either to obtain such by means of their boats, or not to enter a river without a pilot.
3d. The wind, which from E. N. E. to N. E. or E. S. E. and S. E. always prevails
upon this coast, and the current, which always runs W. N. W. make the lesser latitude |
to windward ; and hence, on all this coast, it is very easy to increase your north latitude,
but almost impossible to decrease it.
4th. The general current, of which we have spoken, must not be confounded with that I
which is produced by the tides, the influence of which is principally felt near the coast;
and twelve leagues out at sea, or 9 fathoms of water, may be considered as their limits : as
at that distance out at sea, no other current but the general one is felt : but, between that
and the land, no other currents than those caused by the tides are felt. The flood sets
towards the coast, and the ebb away from it : the tide flows on full and change days, atj
Cape North, at? o'clock ; on the coast of Mayez, at 6 o'clock ; at Cayenne, at 5 o'clock;
and at Surinam, at 6 o'clock.
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
531
1, to recovet the
and, when about
ch is that called
eiit the depth of
. by S. to S.W.
1 5 i'athonis, soft
ist steer more to
iithonis of water,
rejo ; and, in tliij
With these di-
i. point of Ishule
; you may then
ittom soft clayey
ill be secure anii
onduct any vessel
me misfortune or
>untry.
to be felt as hifli
[he times of high
of the moon, the
3 during the other
only, between the
jp sixteen leagues
ar or pass, named
r on it ; and large
1 them, which, al-
he interior of the
ade or navigation,
id in the season oi
lot easy to makej
h theOronocodi-
boats and canoes.
:i of the Oronoco,
lal remarks, which
Ithough the whole
it must not be sup-
arima had an error
11 observed are in-
lis necessary tore-
pf recognizing the
ake, and gettolee-
In down the coast
|s out distinctly. It !
and what renders ]
are often days (
h no less in respect
1 ways to be remem-
Ivery little wateroii
lof these entrances,
ler without a pilot.
T.. always prevaiU
the lesser latitude |
nir north latitude,
lifonndcdwiththall
Vu near the coast;
as their limits; Ml
but. between that
It. The flood sets
Vd change days, at]
Line, at 5 o'clock;
5th. In addition to what has already been said, it is advisable for vessels bound from
Kurope to Guyaiin, to make the land about tin; coast of Maye/. ; sluinning the vicinity ot'
the River Amazon. Iiecause it produces vast swellii)g.«, which are felt a groat distance out
at sea ; and which, loar the mouth of the river, might prove most fatal to a vessel. This
phenomenon, whicli ii known in the CJanges, and other great rivers, by the name of a
Bore, is here called the I'ororoca, as already noticed.
6th. Having made and recognized tlie coast, it is necessary to run along it, keeping the
lead constantly going, so as to keep in 7, 8, or 9 fathoms, taking care not to get into less
water, from fear of striking on some of the shoals which stretch out from the coast ; and
although with that depth, in some places, the land cannot be seen from the vessel, even
in clear weatiier, tliis can occasion little or no inconvenience ; as, when near the latitude
of your place of destination, it is easy to put the vessel on the larboard tack, and run in to
sight the land. Nor is there any difficulty in examining it, when necessary, as you have
only to keep more away on the larboard tack ; but, in such cases, it is very necessary to
be extremely careful with the lead. When night comes on, and you are near the port of
vuur destination, it is proper to anchor : as also when it is calm, within the limits of the
tides, (described before,) as the current, or set of the flood tide, carries a vessel towards
the coast.
7tli. Getting aground on this coast is not generally attended with much danger, as the
bottom is always of clay, more or less soft. Notwithstanding this, no one ought to navi-
gate this part without due care, as getting ashore not only causes a loss of time, but occa-
sions much work in carrying out anchors, 6cc. to get a vessel off. We notice here that,
even when a vessel is in the regular track, although in 'J fathoms of water, she will raise
the mud, as if ploughing it with her keel. This may cause uneasiness to those who wit-
ness such a thing for the first time, though it is the consequence of a very natural cause.
8th. The islands of Reniire, the Constai)les, and the Health Islands, are the only
points of this coa.«!t which are likely to cause the loss of a vessel, if it gets ashore on
them. In order to avoid this, it is needful to pay attention to the currents, that they do
not drive you upon them; and not to attempt to pass between the Constables, unless
with a free wind ; with the contrary, it is better to anchor at three leagues from them,
or to pass outside of them, taking care to give the shoal, of which we have already spo-
ken, a sufficient berth.
9th. On the whole of this coast there are no other harbor'- than those formed by the
mouths of rivers, the greater part of which retpiirn practical knowledge to enter them,
on account of the bars and shallows which run out from all of them; but as, on all this
coast, storms are unknown, and there is not tlie smallest risk in anchoring where one
deems it to be necessary, there can be no necessity to run rashly for one of these anchor-
ages, but rather wait at anchor outside for a pilot, or till such time as you can obtain a
stiflicient prac(ical knowledge of the place by nieans of your boats, so as to be able to
take the vessel in safety yourself.
10th. When any one wants to beat to windward on this coast, or, what is the same,
wishes to go from the Otonoco or Surinam to Cayenne, he must work along the coast
with the ebb tide, in from 3\ or 4 fathoms water, out to 8 or [) fathoms : for though you
may be shouldered away by the current to the N. K. you will gain very well on the tacb
to the S. E. or E, S. E., but with the llood it is necessary to anchor; for then, both wind
and current being against you, you will irremediably be driven upon the coast.
llth. Those who from the Antillas are bound to any port in Guyana, ought to keep
their larboard tacks on board, until in a convenient latitude to make the land to the south-
ward of their port of destination, which ought to be more or less to the southward, ac-
cording to the practice and knowledge of the navigator who directs the vessel ; but, upon
all this coast, especially from Cayenne to the Oronoco, even the most experienced are
• unable to ascertain the places where they find themselves; and without the assistance of
[observations for latitude, and of priuieiit conjectures on the different appearances to
[windward and leeward, they would often commit very serious mistakes.
I The environs of Demeiara are the parts of the coast easiest known, on account of the
[trees being burnt and cut down to clear the land for cultivation ; and where these trees
[have been cleared away, there are clear spots or gaps in which, (as already stated,)
[houses, &c. may be plainly seen. When at a loss, it is best to anchor till you can clear
[Up your doubts; as, although you lose the time in which you are at anchor, yet you
[keep still to windward, which is what interests you most; and which, if lost, it would
[cost you much time and labor to recover.
12th. DEAD RECKONING in Shoal Water as on the Coast of Guyana, Sfv.—As
[the greatest uncertainty in the situation of a vessel arises from the errors in the dead-
[reckoning, caused by urrents, to diminish such errors, and render the computation more
Jcorrect, it is advisable to take off the log-chip from the log-line, and to substitute a
ileaden weight, weighing 4, 6, or 8 pounds, as may be judged necessary : this, taking the
i'
532
blunt's ameuican coast pilot.
bottom, (when the log is liove with it, in i)Iace of a lo^-chip,) will not so easily (ollnw
ihe vessel, or be inlluenced l)y currents. 15y this niodo it is clear that the lof^ will sIm.h
the whole distance which the vessel runs, whether caused by winds or l)y curnms,
Then, havin<; made fast the lo^- line, l)ut"ore you haul it in, mark the bearing oi ii,
and the opposite ))oint or direction will i)e the cotnse which the vessel makes ^w,A.
It is clear that, by this mode, the course and distance ought to be as rxiictly
I'ound as if no current existed. If you heave the lor with a chip, in the usual niiintKr,
as well as a log with a lead attacheil to it, and compare the distance by it, and the cniiist
which the vessel ap|)ears to make by compasa, with the distance and course found bv
the proposed method, you will be able to ascertain the direction and velocity of ibt
current.
SOUTH AlflERICA, SOIJTBI OF THE E^IUATOR.
We now connnence south of the Equator, with the island of Fernando Noronha ai !
the RiK(;;is, as they are ol'reii fallen in witii in the route to South America.
FMIINANDO NOilOMlA.— This island is remarkable liy a high rocky pcakoiiiis
north sidi!, called the Pyramid, very barren and rugged ; and by its S. AV. ])oint, iiiiinKi
the llole-in-lhe-Wall, which is ])ierced through, and gives a free passage to the su,
The Pyramid ap|/ears, at a distaiH'c, like a very high steeple or tower. The south side
is distiimuishable by a little rocky i.>!e, that appears like a statue. The island is ahont:
miles li)iig, and 2 or 2] i)road. It has been the rendezvous of vessels employeil i;
the southern whale (ishcry, &c. for procuring supplies of cattle, sheep, ))oultry, wooj.
&c.; but water is frecjuently scarce. Kast India ships, have, also, occasionally toiubi
here, when they have lieeii horsed to the westward i)y the currents.
On approacliing the ishmd, no soundings will be found until very close in. Tlitrp n
no danger i)ut what may be seen, excepting a rocky spot off the south side between i«(
and three miies from the shore, and a rock al about a quarter of a mile from the S. W
point.
The road or prmcipal ..nchorage is on the north side of the island, being shelicicdti
the norlli eastern land, and several islets in that direction. The anchorage has iVonilii
to r2 fathoms, loose sandy ground, at about half a mil'j from the citadel point or iiearM
shore. It is unsafe to lie in with northerly or N. W. winds, which are said to prevaf
from Decendjer to April; in the other months the winds are mostly from the S. E,oi
easterly ; sometimes at N. E.
Fernando Noronha was formerly approjuiated exclusively, by the Brazilian govetc.
ment, as a place of exile for their vilest criminals, under the coiUrol of a garrisou. 1
the little sandy bays and anchorages are defended by forts.
Water may be obtained here; i)ut in the dry season it is sometimes very scarce, k
seasons of drought, which are not uncommon, the rivulets vre dried up, and the vejieu-
tion parched. There are but few vegetal)les, hit i)lenty of live stock and fish, withat
immense quantity of doves. The fresh water is obtained from a well near the Gover-
nor's house, in the cove called Water Bay; but the cask nmst be rolled over some rocb
and swung ofl" to the boat over tVie impeding surf.
Wood is cut on the larger islet to the N. E., called Wooding or Rat Island. Thi
islet is nearly surrounded by rocks, and there is risk of staving the boat when t:\kiiigoii
the wood, as it is heavy, and siidis if thrown into the water. .Should the governor per-
jjiit wood to be cut on the main island, it may be conveyed without much danger Irmii
the fine sandy bays to the westward of the roao.
In 1H05 Captain Mortimer found but a small supply of water, few vegetables, biitpleii-
ty of live stock and fish, and an immense quantity of doves. On the 9th day of April,
1827, H. M. Ship Cambridge, Capt. T. .1. Maling, touched here, and there were al
that time about 200 inhabitants on the island : of these ftO were soldiers under the
government of a Prussian officer, who with the assistance of an engineer was repairing
the fortifications and erecting new points of defence.
From Tobacco Point, or the south point of the island, a reef of rocks, even with the
water, extends half a mile to the southward ; and to the S. E. by E. 21 miles froniilif
same point, is the centre of a rocky patch, on which the sea always breaks. Within a
line with these rocks the pyramid is shut in with the highest hill on the south side of the
island. Between this reef and the shore is a channel of from 10 to 15 fathoms.
The current here commonly sets strongly to the westward, for which due allowanci
jmust bo made in rounding the islands to the N. E.
.'«^ibeivV
BLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
533
TllK ROCC'AS. — These arc dangerous low keys, IG or 17 leagues to tho westward
of l''erii:iml-o Noroiiha, and on which tho Britannia Kast Jndia shij) and King (ieorgi:
transport, deceived hy the ttjrrents, were h)st in IHOO. The keys or islets are sandy
witii shrulis upon them; they cannot he seen (Voiu the mast liead in the clearest weather
at the distance of more than .'} leagues. At their IS'. E. end is a higii rock, and the sea
breaks exceedingly liigh all round them. 'JMie ship (Uory, at two miles ?(» ihe west of
the rtef, found bottom at 2H fathoms, coral rock. The current here was found to set 2^
miles hourly, to the westward, /lise and fall of tide (> feet.
COAST OF BRAZIL. — Bi/ Bdron liditissin. The appearance of the coast of Bra-
zil is very difl'erent. From the island of Santa (.'atharinaup to (Jiinda Point, (bO leagues
north of Ca|)e Frio,) the land is very high and woody, and tan b<; discovered in tine wea-
ther from .'JO to ()0 miles distance, and consequently, with little care, a vessel can make
laud without danger. North of this in many i)lac"es the land is very low, and not to be
perceived from that distance; as for example, between Espirito Santo and iMount Pas-
cal; between the bay of Porto Seguro and the bay of All Saints; between the Torre de
Gracia dc Arila and Oape St. Augustine ; and finally, every wliere between Olinda and
the Island of Maranham : In all these places the land is more or less low, few moun-
tains can be perceived, being so far in the interior.
Sounding in general is of very little service to indicate the distance from tlie land, par-
ticularly from Point Santa Catharina Island up to Olinda, on account of the great depth
even at a short distance from the shove, except in the neigliborliood of the Abrolhos.
It may be generally stated that the depth under the following parallels, is nearly this;
70 fathoms at L-* leagues distant from the land of Santa ("atharina; 40 fathoms at 12
leagues frotn the Parairagua; r)0 fathoms at 1"2 leagues east from the island ui' San Se-
bastian; -io fathoms at o leagues soutii-east of .Toatinger Point ; 77 fathoms at IH leagues
south-eastof Rio .Taneiro entrance: Finally, more than 60 fathouis at 7 leagues only irom
Cape Frio. The depth of the sea is very great N. E. of Cape Frio, for at 30 leagues
distant, in a direction E. { S. of Cape St. Thomas, we did not (ind the bottom even with
100 fathoms. Soundings increase again E. and S. E. of Abrolhos; generally speaking,
it is in few instances not to be depended rn, that a less depth than 100 fathoms is to be
met at .'JO leagues from the coast.
\o bottom is to be met even with 200 fathoms, eight leagues only S. E. of St. Sal-
vador, nor at 12 miles south of this, although at a distance of 4 miles, there are but 20
fatiioms; and finally, E. froiu Cape Morro San Palo, we did not fmd tlie bottom with
120 lathoms, although at [) leagues distant. From Bahia to Olinda the coast is not less
bold, for at 'J leagues east of Torre de Cracia de Avilla the sounding is over 180 fa-
thoms; at the same distance 9 leagues east of the bar of Itapierucu it is over 200 fa-
thoms; the soundings a'-e over I'JO fathoms 20 leagues from Rio Real, and 1.5 fathoin.s
are found 10 leacues east of Kio San Francisco. Finally, every where up to Pernam-
biico, there are not less than V>0 to 40 fathoms at') or 10 leagues distant froiu the shore,
and between Olinda and Pernaiubuco, from IH to 20 leagues distant from the shore, the
bottom is not met over 120 fathoms. Though the sounding be less nortli of Olinda,
yet it is too great at a small distance to Ix; of ervice.
North of Cape .San Ro(|ue, the land lieing more low, and extending into the sea, the
soundings decrease gradually towards the shore.
From Monte lAfelaiicia up to the village of Anmfadas there are but 15 fathoms at 16
leagues distant, and farther north the soundings increase, but it may be taken as a gene-
ral rule, that 10 fathoms are to be met with at the distance of 10 or 12 miles, between
Anmfadas and .lericacoara. Opposite tlie village of Cu -ica there is a spot where 24 to
2.5 feet only of water are to be met, over an extetit of tin e leagues, but it is the only
place up to Maranham.
The coast of Brazil offers this particular, vi/.. that there are two banks or shoals at no
great distance from the shore, the first of which is not far distant from the land, and in
many places rises over the level of the sea, and in some other places form the breakers or
shallow waters. The other bank, farther distant frotn the shore, is not etitially distant
anywhere. It cannot be stated as forming shallow \.ater, but it is a fact tliat between
this bank and the former, there is a deep channel separated from the inain sea by this
bank and the small islands of Figuera, (/astillo, Gueiuado, los Alcatroses, los Abrolhos.
Manuel Luis Shoal iriay be considered as the prominent point of this second bank.
The teiuperature of Brazil varies. In the southern latitudes the winter is pretty severe.
Frost and snow are not uncommon at Rio Grande. The seasons luay be divided into two,
viz., the rainy season and dry season, the last of which is from September to February.
The rainy season continues from March to Sejjtember, but the only months in fact which
may be considered as rainy are May, June, an(l .Inly.
On the Brazil coast the south monsoon is from March to September. The northeru
one from September to March. The prevalent winds, according to the saying of the na-
ll
Ml
i
■4 V- I
534
BLUNT's AMKRICAN COAST I'lLOT.
fives, duiirit; the south monsoon, are (Vonn E. S. E. and S. S. E., and during ih;
northern monsoon are (Voni K.N.E. and N.N.E. ; this may be the case at sea. ] will u,,,
oppose this fact, having; no reason for it; hut I can assure, from my own observatiun,
that at a short distance from liie shore J did not (ind tiie monsoon so regular as it i,
supposed ; in fact, tlie most prevalent wind at ail times, is from the eastern part of tlip
compass. The Kahajos are very stronp; winds, blowing from the S. W. diirinf: tin.
rainy season. They last three or four days with great force, not so great when it r;iiii«,
but very heavy in dry weatlier. "^J'his begins at the change of the moon. The ffrwrn
are squalls, and are met more fre(iiiently in the neigliborhood of Abrollios Islands, and
called for this reason, Abrolhos squalls. They are more frr(|uent in the months of iMav,
.Tune, July, and August, and in very rainy seasons tliey blow from E. S. E. They sjv
they arise from a white cloud of a round shape, and of a little appearance at first, andbv
and oy increase to sucli a force as to be dreadful.
Land-bree/.es are very regular on the whole extent of Brazil coast, but not equally
regular and strong, but more so as you approach the equator. At Ilio .Faneiro they are
not very regular, and very often not at all felt. The land-breezes are more ijowerlnjia
the northern monsoon, and in the southern monsoon very often the land-breeze has
quite the same direction as the sea-breeze, this part coming from the 8. \V.
Ft .d a general rule, that the land-breeze will be more powerful in proportion as the
sea-breeze is so. It may be stated, that a vessel can depart from Brazil any day ii
pleases.
Generally the more you proceed south along the coast, the more you must expect to
find the wind coming from the south and west in the rainy season. In this time of the
year, from Abagoados I'atos up to Cape Frio, they blow with great violence from S. K,
to S. W., and even N. W. In this case they turn into hurricanes, and are called Pani-
peiros. In the River Plata they are very dangerous. If at sunset, foggy clouds, aii(i
the land appears more distinct at a small distance, it is an omen the wind will blow from
the S. or S. W., and they will be powerful in general. They last in proportion as tliei
are more heavy, and last longer if not so dreadful. When they turn into a hurricane,
they will never last over twenty-four hours. When the wind hauls towards the east,
you may expect fine clear weather. It is to the contrary when it nears towards the wcsl:
easterly winds bring clear v ather ; westerly winds bring fogs.
Nothing positive can be saul respecting the regularity of the currents : they gcneralh
follow the direction of the wind, for there is no river of a sufficient magnitude on the
whole extent of the Brazilian coast capable of causing a current, according to numerous
observations. The average running of the currents is at the rate of six tenths of a mile
an hour ; in the monsoon time never over that rate, and in many instances below if, even
no current at all. It is oidy north of *Pernambuco, that the current can be con-
sidered as permanent, and cajjablc of causing some errors in the day's work of a ship,
and, even in this case, it is only when you so along the coast at no great distance, fori!
distant at sea no current exists. I'roni wliat has been said respecting winds and cur-
rents, we may inferthat no im|)ediment exists in navigating the Brazilian sea, from Saii!j
Catharina to Olinda Point, and it is entirely useless to endeavor to make land more
south than the place bound to, as formerly prescribed. If going to Olinda, orany other
place more north, up to Maranham, it is better to keep east of the place bound to, in
order to counteract the eft'ects of the currents, which run generally W. N. W. as will
be more particularly stated when describing the several harbors, and the manner to
reach them.
Description of the Cape and Banks of St. Roqve.
The Cape of St. Roque admits hardly any description, for nothing particular enists
hy which this cape may be distinguished from the eandy beach. The color of the sand
is white, but in some places appears of a reddish tinge, owing to the reflection of the
light, and by this reason is not a very certain guide. From place to place bushes are to
be seen on the top of the beach, and some trees can be discovered far in the interior.
which is not the case in coming from the south. Cape St. Roque is not in fact the
most extreme end of this great elbow of the South American land, for the direction of
the shore remains nearly the same 20 miles farther, and it is only at Calcanar Point that
it changes its course to N. N. W.
From St. Roque the land lowers more and more, and 8 miles distant it forms Cape
Petetinga, which cape oilers no more particulars than St. Roque, and the beach is of the
same white sand.
» A lighthouse, which exhibits a revolving light, has been erected at the entrance of Pernambu.
CO, by which that part of the eoastmay be recognized.
blunt's America; joast pilot.
535
., and during the
at sea. 1 will nm
own obseivaliuii,
so regnli\r iis it i,
■astern pint nt' tlip
S. W. durinfj tin.
rent when it ruins,
oon. The gmm
ollios Islands, anj
le months of Mm
S. E. Theyw
nee at first, andliv
?t, hut not rquallv
10 Janeiro Ihcyiire
I more jiowerlul in
le land-breeze has
S. W.
proportion as tlie
Brazil any day ji
ou must expect to
In this time of the
iolence from S, E,
nd are called Pnni-
f'osipy clouds, aiiii
vind will blow from
proportion as tlie»
n into a hurrirane,
i towards the m<i,
s towards the wesi;
its : they jrcnerally
: magnitude on the
rding to numerous
IX tenths of a mile
mces below it, even
irent can be con-
_ 's work of a ship,
reat distance, for if
g winds and cur-
ian sea, from Sai.ia
o make land more
inda, or any other
place bound to, in
W. N. W. as will
nd the mannerlo
particular exists
e color of thesanii
e reflection of the
)Iace bushes are to
far in the interior,
is not in fact the
or the direction of
alcanar Point that
!ant it forms Cape
the beach is ofthc
ranee of Pernambu-
The Portugue.so cosmographer, Piinentel, admits that near Cape Petetinga there is u
t-oud watering place for ships, but we had no cliauce to ascertain that fact.
Near Cape Petetinga the soundings begin to indicate the sliallow water of the Banks
of St. ll')que. Tliis shoal runs in a direction pirallel with the .shore, nearly fiO miles,
and ths average breadth iniy be considered (> miles. Tlie chanmd between them and
the iniiin land is from i> to G miles wide, and it is reported that vessels of a less draught
of water than 7 or 8 feet, can pass without the least danger. The greatest distance from
the northern shoal to St. Roque is iJO miles.
NottvithstanJing the small h'jiglit of the shore near the.sc shoals, in fine and clear
weather, it may be discovered before you reach them.
The whole extent we ascribe to the shallow water is not eijually dangerous, and it is
reported that places exist where large ships may cross tlieiri. As the whole coast is of
very little interest, one will do better to keep at a distance from it.
The eastern breiker stands IJ miles distant from Calcanar I'oint. The sea seldom
breaks over it. The next west of the former, and 8 miles distant t'rom dos tres Irmaos
Point, is called the Lavandera, and the third one, called the ITrca.s, stands 12 miles N.
' N. K. from Tubaroa Point, and opposite St. AII)erto Bay. The sea breaks constantly
with great force on these two last, particularly when the wind blows from the sea.
By keeping at a reasonable distance there is not the least danger to be ap|)rehended.
Wefoimd the soundings increasing regularly and very fast, towards tho sea, the surest
proof that no more shallow water is to be met, though in many charts another shoal is
marked E. "20° N. of this place. This we consider as an error, for the reasons previ-
ously stated.
The soundings are of no service to indicate the approach of this place. The nature
of the bottom seems to be the same every where, and we found it always a mixture of
white madrepores, intermixed with sand, and in some instances with gravel.
The green color of the water, like every shallow water, deserves more notice, and you
may consider yourself safe as long as you have not reached this green water.
The ciurent runs N. N. \V. and X. W. at the rate of nearly '2 miles an hour; aud the
tid« rises from b to 10 feet, according to the new or full moon.
From Cape .St. Roque to Ponta Petetinga, is o leagues to the N. W. and N. W. by
N. At the loot of this hill, or eminence, is a stream, where you may obtain water; and
at about a musket simt from shore, is a high reef, near which you may anchor in 3 or 4
fathoms; bottom of sand and mud. The coast in general is fiat and barren.
At 3 leagues from Petetinga, westward, are some rocks on the shore called Pedra da
Garca, near which any ship may anchor ; and a^ about 15 leagues to the west, is the
Ponta das Pedras, or Point of Rocks, with the rocks called the Tliree Brothers. Of all
the coast between, the country is bare and black, its surface covered with sand, and it
appears like small islands.
Olf the Pta. das Pedras are three shoals of rock, having a channel between them and
the main, of.'? and 4 fathoms. At ,3 leagues outward are reefs above water.
Of the River Guamare to the S. \V. the distinguishing marks are two inland sugar
loaf mountains, of unequal heights. To the west is the island Tubarao; then follow
the rivers Amarg'jsa, Cavallos, and Conchas : of tliese rivers the first two lead to the
Salines or Sail Ponds of Assu; whence many parts of Brazil have been supplied. The
coast hence trends to the Ponta do Mel, or lloney Point, as sho»vn on the chart. The
point may be kuuwn by its high red clilfs ; and hereabout were, and probably still are,
som« palm or cocoa trees.
. the River Upanema, situate as shown on the chart, are natural salinas, which, like
those of Assu, require no artificial means for crystallization. Its entrance has a bar of
little more than one fathom at high water, although within there is a depth of 8 fathoms.
Here the land is very h'vel ; and on the west of the river, there are, as far as a field-piece
can carry, red clifls. Within land is Monte \'ermelhos, a sugar-loaf hill. Ships, how-
ever, should not advance into the bay, as it is full of shallows.
From the River Upanema to the N. W. the next river of any consequence is the lagua-
ripc, which may be known by a round bare hill of sand on the N. W. terminating in a
rock below, and within land a mountain, having seven sugar-loaf points.
Five leagues inland from the laguaripe rises the range of the Guniame Mountains,
which extend ten leagues in the direction of east and wes:.
Commencing at about tliree leagues from the River laguaripe, the land for nearly four
leagues, close to the sea, appears dark and full, with several openings like bays. At about
half a league from the commencement of these openings are some white clifis, in shape
like a schooner, with all sails set, and head at east. So soon as this full land terminates,
the coast assumes a more flat and level appearance.
Upon the south bank of the River laguaripe at the distance of about nine miles from
the entrance, is the town of Aracati. At the entrance is a bar, narrow and dangerous,
owing to sand banks on each side ; and upon these the surf is very violent. The sand is
m
• If.
536
blunt's americain coast pilot.
HO loose at the tnoulb of tlv. river, that, even with the coasting vessels of the coutitr*
every j)rccaiitioii is rcciulrcd. 'J'iie rivor widens iiiiiiic<natcly witiiin tiio bar, and tVtri]:)
rather a spacious hay ; l)Mt (lie port cannot, iVorn tlic uncertainty of its deptli, ever becoine
important, and it has, at titiics, been nearly choked u|).*
Pinientel describes tlie JJay of J^iianpe to the soiilli-eastward of Seara ,wliieh, he savs,
forms a small harbor to the westward of sonic low level land. The bay is. surronndi'il hy
very high perpendicular cliffs, ajiainst wliich the sea breaks at half-tide. It has ;i liijj,
round rock, beliind or within uhieh is shelter and anchorage in two and a half or tlnfe
fathoms. On the N. W. of this bluff rock you may anchor in the very roll of the sea,
as it has 4 and o fatlu)nis , and on the strand are pits for watering. Along side of the
rock of Jguaripe, on the east, the river Xaro falls into the sea : anil, on its west side, tlin.;
leagues out to sea, is a siiallow of green water, off) to 7 fathoms, with bottom of mixi
sand, and, in some places, small shells.
SE AK A — is the most important town upon this part of the coast. The bay on whirl,
it stands is formed by Point Macoripc (in f'.t. .'i^'lO' ."id" S. and long. ."Jri^ ~*7' W.; totlie
eastward, and by the Hiver Papina to the westward, an extent of about 4 leagues. |[
is extremely open ; its greatest depth being li miles.
Abreast of the town, and at tlie distance of half a mile from the shore, extends a ri(|i;p
of rocks, level with the water's edge, and within which small craft generally anchor, ilje
entrance to the anchorage being around the eastern end of the reef.
The land within Point Macoripe is a high and irregular sand-hill, terminating in fhe
point, which has a tower near the extremity. .Ships advaiu:ing irom the N. E. sliotild
not approach the point nearer than thrt'e uiiles, and should ('hoose a berth withoiu ilie
points which form the bay. Tolerable anchorage may be obtained by bringing the point
to bear S. E. by K. and the town of Seara S., about 4 miles distant from shore, inofa-
thorns, sand and uuid. His Majesty's ship Inconstant, in 1814, was the first Etiglisli
ship of war that had anchored here within the memory of tiie oldest inhabitants; hav
ing brought up in a spot which had previously been occujfied by the American frigate
Constitution.
The Recife, or Reef, forms a complete ridge, at a considerable distance from thesliorp,
and is to be seen af low water. It extends parallel with the shore for about one quarter
of a mile, with two openings, one above and the other below the town. A small vessel
may come to anchor between it and the shore; but a ship can bring up only in oiicol
the openings of the ridge, or on the outside of it. A vessel coming in from the north-
ward should make Point Macoripe, which is a league to the eastward of the town, wiili
a small fort on it, and may thence bring up in 6 or .j fathoms. (.)n the appearance ol a
ship, the town fort displays a wliite flag ujion a tall flag-stall".
North-eastward of .Seara, between the reef and shore, is a rock, called Pedra da Vellu,
or the Old Woman's Rock, which may be known by the breakers over it. When a ves-
sel leaves the port she may pass between this rock and tiie shore, giving berth to a shoal
which lies about 100 yards to the northward, or she may run out between the rock and
the principal ridge or reef.
On the 1st of .lanuary, 1824, a vessel, commanded by Mr. J. W. Matthewson, was
wrecked by striking on the Pedra da \"elha, while lyin<r-to for a i)ilot. The rock ap-
))eared to be in si/.e not more than two or three times the length of tlie ship. It lies
about one-third of the way between Point Macoripe and the inner anchorage, and the
depth all round it is 3}, fathoms.
Captain Matthewson says, " In going into the bay, I kept the lead constantly goinj;
and when in .3^ fathoms wore ship, with her head off shore ; at the moment before she
struck we had this depth of water. She struck only twice, did not stop, and, as quirk
as the lead could be hove, we had 3,V fathoms again. The vessel drew scarcely nine feel
of water.
The breach may be seen on the rock at low water; but in fhe daytime, when the sea-
breeze sets in, the water generally tops and shows so much alike that it is not easy todis-
tinguish the place of the rock in the general swell.
The inner anchorage above mentioned, is between the recife or reef and the shore.
You enter by the eastern channel and go out by the western, when you cannot fetch out
by theeastern one. Here a vessel lies at low water, surrounded by breakers, except in
the channels; and as the pilots are very inattentive, it is, altogether, very dangerous.
This is, nevertheless, becoming a place of very considerable trade.
" From Seara the coast trends N. W. by W. to Jericoacoara,t the depth gradually
* Koater's Travels in Brazil, vol. 1, p. 17.5,
t " .Tericoacoara is a bay covered with sea weed, and its coast bare and barren. It is full ol |
shallows, having near the shore only 2 fiiflioins. Its distinguishing mark is a fine high mountain,
almost round, a little inland, the ground breaking near it, and forming others not quite so high."— j
[Pimentel.]
assume a higher an(
BLUXT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
537
increasinc: offslion; ; l)Ut a N. W. coiusp should he pursued, to avoid a spit, the base of
which e>;lriids troin Mount Mciancias to .hricoacoaia, and terniiiiates in a N. E. diiec-
lion tVoiu llie latter, at tiie distance ol't) or 7 h'a^ues oil' shore. Ilavini; run 100 miles
upon the above N. W. course, iiieludint; a mile and a hall per iiour for the current's as-
sistance, in soundin;;3 varyinj; from 1] to "JO fathoms, change tln^ course to W. | N.,
uliich is nearly the direction of the coast from Jericoacoara to Mangues Point, and it
will "ivc >'ou a sif;hl of tlie land as far as the island of St. Anna.
" NV'licn ships are bound to Maranham, from seaward, it is absolutely necessary to
iinke the land considerably to the ea^tuard, as the currents, in general, set very strongly
beiween VV. h '^- "1(1 W. iN. W. If, in endeavoring to make the land, yon should be
ill Int. about .'V^ S., on discovering it you will be offMount iMelancias, or between it and
Se;ira; if the latter, three other mountains will be observed to tlie S. S. K., lying nearly
S. K. and N. W. of each other, which mountains are about 7 leagues to the westward
(il'Seara, and are easily seen from that place. About this part of the coast you will
have a bottom of fine sand and shells.
"If you should make land when yott consider yourself in fromlat. 2^ l.'j' S. to 2"^ 30'
S., and have a bottom of small red and wJiite stones, you will be o(f .lericoaeoara ; if the
bottom consists of yellow, blue, and red stones, you will be oH' I'arnahiba orTamonia;
aiul three mountains, lying nearly in the meridian of each otlicr, in the neighborhood of
the latter, will be seen.
"The whole coast from Point Macoripe to Parnahiba is sandy to about lialf a league
inland, whence it ajjpears well cultivated; so tliat it is easily distinguishable from the
coast between Parnahiba and (ireen Mangues (Mangroves) Point, which consists of
nothing but sand, without the least sign of vegetation."
That part of the sea coast of the province of J'aiuhy, extending from the Earra de Iguar-
rassu, the easternmost branch of the Kio de Parnahiba to the liarra de Tutoia, is in-
correctly laid down in all our charts. The distance between these two mouths is about
oG miles, in which extent the Rio de Parnahiba discliarges itself by four others. Two
of the mouths of this river, namely, those of Iguarrassu and the J5arra Velha, are only
jiid ilown in the charts, while the position of the four others is unknown. Aow litis har-
hr of Tutoia is tlie oiib/ one alnnis this r.rlc.nsive line of eonst from liahia de Tvdosos San-
toslolltc River Aiiiazo)is that iidniits oflliehar heiriff erossedal all limes of the moon h)/ res-
.schdrnwing 14 or \a feet water. Notwithstanding this, the position of the harbor of Tu-
toia is not only incoricctly laid down in some (harts, but in luany which are tolerably
correct in other respects, Tutoia is not even mentioned.
The bar of Tutoia is between 7 and 8 miles wide. The masters of two English ves-
5c|j who sounded on it, never found less than 5 or 6 fathoms water, which corroborated
the extract of a log of a large Braj^ilian brig of war that had entered the harbor a shor'
time previous to our arrival.
The bars of Iguarrassu and Barra Velha are not navigable. Tutoia, as above men-
tionetl, is the only port accessible, and is highly important in a commercial point of view.
"Inclining to the shore and observing the sand banks well, as you pass along, the en-
trance of the Kiver Perguicas will easily be distinguished. The sand will now begin to
assume a higher and more irregular appearance : this height and irregularity docs not,
however, deserve the appellation of hills. Wlien the Perguicas bears S. S. E. you will
ibednto shoalen your water to 8 or 9 fathoms, but a steady course shoiiM be jjursued,
as you will presently pass the spit fornu'd by the sand washed from the river, and which,
[■meeting the natural course of the current in the offing, inclines it to the N. W.
If the day should be far advanced when you are off this i)art of the coast, haul to the
vine) under topsails and foresail for the night ; standing off into 22 or 24 fathoms, and
: on into 12 or 14. It would not be advisable to haul the wind before you are past the
^Perguicas, as, otherwise, you may be short of daylight for the operations of the ensuing
day. At daylight you may bear up under all sail, ])ursuing the former course and dis-
lance from the shore, and towards the conclusion of the sand banks the land will begia
Id appear a little more fertile, and Green Mangues Point will easily be distinguished.
ANGERSTEIN'S ROCKS.— Lat. 4° 28' S. long. ,'J7° G' W. soundings U feet.
Extract of a letter from Mr. .lohn Bouch, master of the Brig Angerstein, dated Rio
^aguaribe, 15th December, 1830.
■In lat. 4° 28' S. and long. .'37^ G' W. I came through a cluster of rocks, tliirteen in
tiumher, from two to three fathoms under water. I ran close along side of one ; it was
[juite visible under water, and I hove the lead on it myself, and had not more than 11 feet
pater. They are not dangerous by day, but I should not like to be among them by night,
f\i\\ a sea on. The rocks being of a dark brown color, they show themselves sufficiently
lor a vessel to pass clear of theiu ; and before the second cast of the lead can be got, you
fK in 10 fathoms water. They he in a triangular form, about H miles from the laud,
68
ul
I'l
n
I
638
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST IMT.OT.
with Ponto do Mel, 8. S. K. J E,, the Reil Mount on the Return, W. by N. i N. 7 nr8
leagues."
Description of St. Marco Bay.
St. Marco Bay is that part of'tlu! sea fi)iii|)ris(Ml Ix-twccMi the wf^trni coant (•fMarjiiilinni
and th(! tiiaiii land ; its ciitraiicc lies N. N. K. and S. S. W.; its Infill is (ivrrscvctitvui,,
miles, and its width six miles : every where the depth of wwler is sndieieni for l;ir;(
vessels, even for frifiatos, which may east anchor near tlio harbor of St. f^uis, Nituatii|i,i;
the western coast of tlie island of Maraidiain.
The prevalent winds beiiu; frcim the east, vessels bound to iMaranliam must en(l(;n,r
to make the first land east of the island, except in case (da fair and favorable wind Inn:,
nortli to w(;st.
The white sandv bea(h, called Lancoe (Jrandes, is the first land a vessel boinuli,
Maranham must endeavor to make : but it is pro|)('i' to observe, that, by an eiror in ili'
day's work, you may be deceived, and mistake the Fiatieoe Pecpietias for the [,;irir,p
(irandes, and in sucli case consider yourself west of the l'eri;uicus, when in (act yoiiHiij
be on the east of this shallow water : to prevent stuh an error, the surest way will In d,
keep at ten or twelve- miles distance from the shore, with from t) to I') fathoms fifn.n.-
an<l sail alon.u; the coast until you reach tin? yreen Manuel slioie ; from this p(iiiit\ri;
must steer west; and very so(mi after you will discover the breakers of St. Arm Mml
and the island itself. Now you must direct your course round the breakers of , St. An,,
at two or three miles distance, until north of them, juid you will be certain to have p;is>r!
them when .St. Ann Island shall stand south a few decrees east of you.
Havinu; passed the northern breakers of St. Ann, you nuist steer ajjain west, a Tph dp.
grees north, tuitil you discover tin; breakers of (.'orao (Jrande, which you may a|i|)ro;ii:
as near as the former. From this point you may proceed to the harbor by two diUcrit
courses: if you intend to follow the first course, then you must steer round ("oino (irn-
de, keeping at a regular distance, with 10 or I'J fathoms of water: if the second, m,
coast along the western shore of Maraidiam island. Maranham Island is easily disii;-
guished from Santa Ann Island by its greater lieight, and its white shore towards ih»
north.
The first point to be discovered, when keeping close to the Maranham Island, is r,i;» |
St. Marcos, from whidi the bay derives its name. It is a high land of very great dcr;
vity, on the top of whicli a house is to be discovered, with a mast for a signal. Tli:
cape and land project into the sea, and 800 yards from the sea-shore there are mam I
rocks and sandy breakers, which you must not approach, being very dangerous.
Keeping always the same course, S. W. and S. VV^. ] S. you will very soon rendu!'
parallel of the small fort of San Anfoni de la Barra, situated at the ])oint of Areias wYn
forms the northern point of St. Luis Harbor. That point being part of the rocks ac:
sandy bank above stated, it will be dangerous to approach too near, as long as you staijl
west of it, but when voii sliall have sailed beyond this cape, you may cast anchor.
SHOAL OF MANOEL LUIZ.— At the distance of 77 miles N. 8^ E. from Itacoioi
you will find one of the most dangerous shoals that you can possibly meet with, nt se
this is called the Shoal of Manoel Luiz, and was only known by the number o',' wreciil
that happened before we were able to discover or assign its true position. It rot
sists of many groups of conical rocks, nearly even with the water's edge, separated W
intervals, irregular both in distance and in de])th.
This shoal, being situated in a sea rarely exposed to violent winds, breaks only fori:!
instant, and that when the tide is quite low, so that it is almost impossible to perccn'T
it even when passing very near. Nevertheless, the rocks on the surface which we liai'|
explored, are not more than Iron: 5 to 15 feet under water at low tide, while there ar:'
12, and 10 fathoms close to them ; thus you may encounter this danger suddenly, andfc
wrecked without the hope of assistance.*
The instantaneous breakings rise in appearance like the back of a whale, when thestil
is calm ; and when these disappear, they leave masses of white foam, which are visible lof
some time. When the sky is clear, you may discover the rocks under water, wjiicil
appear in large black patches ; but as these patches are not perceptible until youaiciol
near, you must not wait for such indications. After two hours of flood, and at the di^l
tance of only half a mile, it is probable you will not see one trace of this danger, if
sea is calm.
The survey which we made of this shoal, has enabled us to be well acquainted witlmi
approaches from the east, the south, and from the west, so as to be certain that iiotliicJ
• The Venus, of Liverpool, in 1814, experienced this misfortune ; for having struck upon ttj
fatal rock, she went down immediately, and entirely disappeared in 10 or V2 minutes.
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
539
. hy N. i N.7nr8
lianifprous exists in tlirse directions. I wish I could slnte ilie .sanif witli confidence re-
«|R>('tiii<; the upproacii frDiii tin; north ; hut this extiniiniilion would inive occupied ms
ei^lit (i;iy» nn»re, ainl »v<! ir.iii rnn tin- (ipixntunity ol' niiikini; it ; lor the followiniu diiv,
filter we Ir.id discovered this shoid, tin- had s('as(»n set in with violence. 'l"he weather
wiMiliI not allow us ti, make any more astronomical olisrrv.iiiuns.
All llie accounts that 1 could collect (d' thi's(! rocks of Manotd liui/, ai;recd, in the
midst of contradictions, in [dacins; I hem more lo tlii' soulliuurd. of the [dai-e which 1 dis-
tdvereil them in, and conllncd them to much narrower limits than those in which i loi'iul
(liiMU ; it was tluMclore nnc-t prohahle that I had seen tluMu all. Nevertheless I do not
iillirin this; and our survey haviiiij iiuludtMl the apiiroaches lo these dangers in the di-
recliiins the ino>l im|)orlaiii to vessels which tVe(|ucnl ^laranham, F am pleased to have
resolved the (piestion of the actual position oC this dainjer in its nujst essential |)arts,
;(i,'ree;d)ly to the instructions given int! ; leaving; to a more t'avorahle o|)portunitv the
cliiuice of disc(»veiin;i whatevisr may he further interestin;^. (or the henelit of navii;nlion
in iicneral. From our ohservations, made at tin? anchoras;e 4(lt) toises to the south of
tJie most westerly roek (d .^Ianoe| Lui/, and under circumstances which assure us of its
correctness, i place these rocks in latitude i)° 51' "J.')" S., lons;itude 44^ 14' 45" VV. and
the viiri;ition observed at the same anchoras;c, .Tan. •."), ]h-,m), was "I) 57' K. Tlie same
(liiv, in the cveniuij; of which it was full moon, we found the rise of the tide was l-J feet,
ami iliiit it was hiv'h water at /ive o'(dock ; that the (lood ran for six hours, at the rate of
six tenths of a mile per hour, to the S. VV, and the ehh ran N. K. for the same period,
iiiiil with the same velocity. Lastly, the nature of the rocks wliicli form this danger,
appears to be of the same kind as those of the AI)rolhos, ami are similar to most of the
titlier rocks and islets at a little distance from the coast of llra/.il, which we have already
described.
Such were our ohservations. nccordine to our .surveys, of these shoals of Manoel Luiz,
wlien, in 18',*5, we were told that anotlier firoup of rocks had been disctovered nearly 7
I IciiLMies more to the northward, and alnu)st on the sami; nieridiau as ours. This dis-
I covery, eniirely a<!cidental, was made by .Mr. Da Silva, an offu cr in the Brazilian Navy,
■will), on his route to I'ara, saw the breakers on his passa-^e, ami discovered these rocks.
I am not ac(|uainte(l with the particulars of this discovery ; but the position jjiven to this
new (lani;er is said to he latitude 0° 3'j' S., longitude 44^ 17' :21" \V. and according to
llie acciuint we received, there does not appear to bo any doubt, at least of their latitude.
One (pu'stion here presents itself, that is, to which of the two shoals, Mr. I)a Silva'g
onuiiic, ou^ht we to i:ive the name of .Manoel Lui/ .' If you consult former charts which
notice this shoal, vou will linil so little a'^recment ainon:j; them, that it will be impossible
t) decide in t'avor of one or the other. They are marked as oidy one jiroup of rocks, and
uutaiiy of them are placed in the jjosition ^iven (jither by Mr. Da Silva or myself'. I am
therefore inclined to think that these two datisiers ouiiht to be considered as a continua-
tion of the same shoal. Its ext(Mit, which would i)i' 7 leagues north and south, havii,^
ercasioneii its beiui; met within many parts, will explain, in some measure, the different
pusitions that have been assigned to it. 1 airree that this hypotliesis would not justify all
these accounts, because I am iidormed that the popular opinion at Maranham, lor exam-
ple, places the shoal one deijree more to the southward than where we found it, and
where we. are cnnjhlent theie exists no sort of" danger ; ;intl we may say the same respect-
iii:j the danger discovered by Mr. i)a Silva; however, it appears, beyoml all doubt, that
what is called the Shoal of Manoel Luiz, is only one of the points of the extensive shoal
|that .Mr. Da Silva and myself have fixed the northern and southern limits of.*
We conclude this subjiict, by observing that it .ippears to us difticult to deterinine from
the soundings, your distance from the shoal of Manoel Lui/. ; the de])tli and the nature
; pi' the ground beinir .so variable, at a certain distance from the danger, that you can de-
duce from them only very uncertain conclusions. The soundings of white sand, speck-
led black and red. as before mentioned, being the most common in that part of the sea,
petween the meridian of the Coroa Grande, and that of the eastern coast of the adjacent
Continent, extend 10 or 15 leagues to the northward of the entrance to tlie Bay of St.
Marcos ; l)ut these are not without exceptions, as you will often find soundings of a very
pilferent a|)pearance.
Beyond this limit, as well as to the eastward of Coroa Grande, sand and broken mad-
ipry
* It is remarkable that Captain Appleton, in 1817, discovered a danjrerous shoal in latitude 0°
I.V S. and about 4 leagues to the westward of the reputed situation of the Bank of Manoel Luiz,
»'h;ch would appear to be placed somewhere between Roussin and Da Silva's Rock?, and proba.
Ily will prove to be a continuation of the same dangers. He states them to be compo.ied of sharp,
loinied coral rocks, with only 14 and 15 feet water over them in some places, while clo.se to theao
fallows the lead will fall into 40 fathoms ; this description, in its principal features, very much ro-
euibles that of the Baron.
540
DLIJIVt's AMF.RrCAN COAST PFIOT.
rpporn nrn the moMt rointiiotily met wiili. 'Plirsc jin* nrurly Jh»' •nmn which VMi m
riitiitniifly mcft wiili ;ill nlmit; llic «ii;isi til' lliir/.il Irdiii llif Alir(illii)<(. Wr i, i
them ill lhi> exlri-iiiily (il :ill our nmUt hi llic r;islu;ml, ami nn ilii' |iHriill*'| di n,,,
shiiiil ; mill it In prdliiiiili; liicy rxinni iiinrli lailhcr to llir iiiirllnv;ii(i ;iiiil ciiNiwiinl.
ill llic t, lirokcti iiiii(li'c|iiiiM arc iiinsi ciiiihikiii in ilic viiiiiily (illliis ilaiii^ci, In llii'tii.r
■oulli, and uost dl ii ; Imt ilicy an- iiilxt'd sdiiiftiiiicN, ili(iii!;li raifly, « iiii cdaisi' i;r;ni|
liriilii'ri sIk'IIh ami idcks, Iml vai yiiii; in ilcplli sn iiiik ii, liiat Vdii cannot, by thu nuuiki!
iiigfl, dctcriiiiiie your (lintaiice Iroiu tlic slioal lo wiiljin 'i dr (i lcaj;iic«j.
Virecliuns for Vessels bound to Murnnhftm, }>>/ L'irul. K. Stnpford, commanding U,}ii
Sr/iijoiiir I'ic/ilc.
VphscIs bound lo Miiriuiham may cross tho c(|i)ntor in lorm. 40'-' W. which Mi||(,p.
blc them to Iclch llic Ijaiiciu's (iraiidcs, a landrail dcscrvidly rcconiincmlcd liy H;i,„„
KoiHsiii. It has lifi'ii ciHtoniary to in ikc tin; li<;liilidnsu on llic island (if Santa An ,
but an error in llic lonuMtiidc will liu df less iiiiporlancc liy making ihc liaticncs (ir
A vessel arriviim oil' Saiila Anna, and tint liavini; NnKicietil davlijilil lo tlnd he
into tlie hay ol' St. Mark, may lay Id (nrtlic nii^lit iill' and on llic li^lillidiisc, kce
illlHi.
liiir.
n:i
as near soiiili dl licr as |idssililc, distant 6 and 7 miles. The light is revolving, iind
be seen distant aliuiit \') miles.
As there is constantly a heavy swell on the coast, anchorage should be avoided il'imj.
sible, as il is Imtli dilliciih anil danucroiis to recover the anchor.
From Sania Anna a \ess(l should sieci \V. ,', N.; liy doint; which she will |insstli>
breakers ot" Coroa (Irandc, at the distance ol' ahont Ii miles, and iMmint llacoloiin »i
be discdvered tiearinir alidiit west. \V hen distant alidiit 10 iir 11 miles iVdiii the M
alter course to .S. }, W., till the tort and (la^-stalJorSl. Mark's arc made out nearly Mn
St. Mark's pc'i,;; should not he passed at a i^rcatcr distance than a mile and a liiiil.
iii)i,t
the hank of Dc (.'erca, (on tin; slariioard hand ^niii^ in,) may he avnided ; a red
rocks runs oil' iVom ihe point; and to tivciid these, it shdiild not he appniached, wnL
three ipiarters ol' a mile. Within these limits a vessel may coast aloni; until Foil A:,
tonio hi;ars K. or 10. by S. uhen shi' should aiiclior and wait liir a pilot.
A vessel by I'dlldwinj; thealmvc route td Maianham. \vill avoid sictliiu: entangled iiinr,
the swash-ways on the C'droa (irandc slniais, menlidiieil hy captain (Juiirtenay iis bm,,
80 very daiiiierdus to straiu'iers.
The inhabitaiits df Maranham, in consciiueiicc df ihcir harbdr fiiliiiL' uji, expert tu'
obliged lo transfer their port of .shipment to Alcaiitra. 1/icnl. Stu|ilord visited this pi'
and is of fipinion that it is jirefcralde in every ropcct In .Marai.liaui, hciiij> easier
111
cess, eai
pahle df cdiitaiiiint; more ships, and allowini; them to j;et in or out, at ;iiiv tn-
of tide, with the prevailiiit; winds. The depth of water is also greater. The Piitl*
was anchored about one third of a cable's lent'th from the slinre, in 7 fathdiiis at I ■
water, heintj; more than in any part of the hari (ir of Maranhani, even at hiuh wiiin.
Captain ( 'ourlcn-.y represents the hotKim. alonuthc whiile line of coast, as heiii^i ',
posed of (|nicksai) Is, to which he attributes ilie l're(|uent loss of anchors by vc.-m'
Lieutenant Stopford is of a dilferent oiiiiiion, liavins: fre(|uently anchored on all pmiM
the coast, between Maranham and I'ara. Jt is, however, indispensab'e, that \i'><':
should ascertain the i|uality of tli:- buttom before aiichdrini,', as it is fdul in many pLu-.
The Pickle lost her small bower hcforc l/ieutcnant Stopldril was aware of this. I)\
choringdii rdcky ground. \'essels shduld he careful not to anchor olf .Si. Mark's |ioi!;,
as the ground is foul, and manv anchors have been lost there.
ROUTE FROM MARANHAM TO PARA.— A vess.d bound from ManinhMJ
■"ara, durms
tl
ic rainv season,
sliouid iret to the northward rif the eiiuator as s
;(i(iii
ail ill';.
It:.
possible. .She \vill thus avoid the light bafllirm winds and calms which jirev
season; and also the current, which sets from K. N. E. to .S. E. abont 2 or .'1 iiiiliv*
hour, occasioned by the waters from the various rivers and hays of the const.
To ihe westward of the island of Salina there are some white cliffs so nearly rpsem-
blinsi those to the eastward of that island, tliat they have been freipiently inislaKfii l"'[
each other. ^'^esseIs inistakin;: the western cliffs for those east of' .Salinas, have sioorl
:er('i!
the lul-l
on until they have become lost on llie Rragan/.a shoal, or in that equally diwvi
place called tlie Well. The utmost caution therefore is necessary to attend to
lo
wing directions for anchorlii!:at Salina
Bring the town of .Salina to bear S.hy E. atid anchor in 9 fathoms. The wholecoa?
from Turnivissais woody, anr| the white sand hills are very remarkable.
Information obtained from .Senhor .Saramanhas, the chief pilot. Lieutenant Vrj^
commander of the U. S. Schooner J3oxer, at Para, South Anierit a.
1. A flag
be obtained.
hoisted on the flag-stalF at Sahna'a village, is the day signal that a pilot
uiai
BLUNTS AMKUICAN COAST IMLOT.
r>ii
no which yen «„
lllON. W'v lull!,, I
II' |i.ir;illr| III (III,
mil fiiNtwiiril.
hxi^cr, to tliPi'a«t.
Mill conrsp uriml.
lint, Ij)' the huuiiil.
immand'tng II. .1/,
»V. which will Hi,
[llllCllllllI I'V li,i ,
iiwl of Siintii All,,,
' Ii;\iicofs (iiiiiiiii.
oht ti) liiiil licr «,,
lithousc, kripiii.,;
s rcviilviiit;, ami , ,,
(1 1)0 avoiili'ii il
•li slic will |i;^<l|y
Diiiit Itariiluini wi;
l«'.s t'roiii tlif Mduiii
lie out nciirlv 'Am
mile '.iihI u hall, iL :
' iivoiili'il ; a reel ,1
i a|)|)rmi(lii'(l, will,:
iliini^ until Foil A:,
liliit.
iii<j;('iitaiisIe(lainop;
Courteiiay as beij; |
iiL' up, expect til'
I'uiil visited tliis|i!
, heiiif; easiei ol ,
(ir out, lit any in
reater. Tlie I'iHM
ill 7 latlioiiis at U\
en at hiuli water,
coast, as l)ein;;'ii|ti.|
aiifliors by vi'sm:.
lioi-cilon ail pmiM
usable, that vesseli
s I'onl in many pbi«
ware of tliis. h) A
idli'St. Mark's puio',
il iVom Maranliniiii)|
ic einiator as sooiim|
which iii-evail in';;
bout 2 i)r ."> niiif>|«1
the coast,
ids so nearly rf»|
jnently mistaKfii fel
f Salinas, have siokI
U cquallv ilan^eroiil
to altciici tutlielolj
iiis. The whole co3n|
jt, Lieutenant Viii^
la.
tiinal that a pilot ma|
'2. It the pilot shiiiilil not, Imwever, cmiie oil' iluriiii; the ilay, anil at ni(;ht there bo
aliiiMn two lii.'htH, the pilot may b« expedfil oil' the InllowinK niDrnini;.
;;. Il tliere be ihiee liijlits slmwii, the pilot has no boat, anil iiiumI have one from tlio
vpMKi'l '*■ bnii:; liim oil'; in wlin li caNe ilie vessel miiHt btin:; the vill.i;;e ot SalinaN to
hear S. S. W . in soiiniliiii;s ol' live or six ratlioiiis water, \tlieii point Atalaia, (iiiipio-
iiirlv callcit in the i liarts, Atisia,) will be (lislanl about ■'> miles. Vou may here iliit-
p.iicli a boat, well nianneil, which must keep eloNO in with the slioreu of Aialaia, ( U-ar
til the snri, until it meets with an openinu in the reel' wliii h lines the i oast in iVont of
tin- villa;ie, thriiii;;h winch it mii-t pass. Inside the red", the water m i|uile smooth, and
villi iiiav land .my where upon the In arli.
' I. 'I'iie boat should be sent at hall tlood, in order that it may return the same tide,
li IS liiiiii water on rull and ehaiiv'c at 7 o'clock, and oil' shore at H. I'ara, June 1, XH'.i'J,
II. M. S. fickle reniained at anclior one ni'.;ht in 7 lathomH, with the town bearini.;
s;. Iiv \]. and had no diliii iilty in re^ainin;; her anchor in the iiioniin;.'. liiiutenanl
Slii|iii>rd observes, that accidents have rrei|uently happened, and lives h^ive bein lost by
boats uoiim tnr the pilots beinn swamped in the surf. They have iVeipieiitly landed iin-
int'iliately under the town, whieli is very wronj;, and liieutenant .*«<toprord recominenil.s
Uii'iii to pass to the westward nl'tiie island : by doin}j this a river will be observed, wliiih
liMils up to the lowii. wiiere boats may land in sat'etv,a!i(l thereby avoid the surf outside.
MMvANIIA.M TO I'AKA. — I'ara, or (Jrand I'ara. is ihe northermnnst |)rovinee of
iha/.ll, ii'i'l i^ celebrated for its cotton, sn^ar, vanilla, chocolati;, and coll'ee. 'ihe coast
Iriiiii the bay of Maranham to I'ara, is n;enerally lirw and sandy, and has many little
jsiis, of llie same deseription, with iiiimeroiis coves and rivulets. I'imenti I has ile-
hcrilied the whole, but his desci iptioii is not adapted to the use of the niodcrn navi-
Katar, utuiseil to creep alim<j; the shore. Some of it may, however, be useful. .\ ves-
si'l, he says, bound from .Nlaranhani to I'ara, should take her departure in the inornin<;,
ativance to tlie ainihoraije olf the Araeaji, or elitf, already described, thence stand out to
se.i, to beyond the shoals of Ciima, (or Oarnaveros banks.) which may be clfecied in a
riiiiof '■* b'a'jiues. Ilavin;:!; passed these, you approach the sand bank stretcliini; from
till' wi'stern sliore, and over which there are G, 111, 7, (), .'), 7, and H falhoms. Thus, you
iiiav i)rocecd to the N. N. W. or N. \V. by N. to the distance of "J-J lea^'ues, when the
eriiiniil of the bank, white sand with black specks, will be succeeded by coarse sand
ami stones, or brown sand and broken shells, with 115 to 17 and UO fathoms of water.*
Here yon ^^'iH be olf the island of St. .loan, or St. .lolm, and near the parallel of one
(le'.'iee south.
Till' island of .St. .loao is nearly level with the sea, and about IJ leai;ues Ions,' from H. N.
F.. to W. S. W. Hetween tlie N. E. end of tliis island and Point Turiva/.o to the W. N.
W.tlie distance is aiioiit ') leaL'iies. The bay between ali'ords shelter, and vessels may
anchor on the .N. W. side of St. .lohn's island, in from b to -l fathoms, sandy ground.
At the distance of IH |caii;ni's W. .N. \\^ frmn Tnrivazo point is Cape (inrupi, over
wliirh is a mountain, insulated and therefore remarkable. This mount is several leagues
inlaiiil, and near it is another, somewhat smaller and rounder. The coast here, as in
otlu'r i)arts. is, however, low", level and sandy, covered with a dark brush-wood, and from
the jmiiit a shoal, with breakers, extends .'! miles out to sea.
From Cape (iurupi to the ITivcr Cayte, on the western bank of wliieh is n small town
of the same name, the distance is 24 leaiiues, on a course nearly west. At the entrance
of this river, on the eastern side, are several low islets, of the same name. Oil' the
.slinie, throuj;hont this extent, the bottcmi is jirenerally ilat, and there is commonly 7 and
Hfatliomsat :< leagues olf, with t lear erouiid.
I'roin the Cayte to the inlet of Maracnno, the distance W. by N. is IJ.'f leagues. In
sailiii:,' alona; it is proper to keep 2 or ;{ leagues oil' shore, in soundin(2;s of 7 and 8 fa-
tlioins. The coast here is distinsuished by a ran::e or chain of white sand-liills, the
]ii:;liest of which, Piraussu Mill, is about 3,'; leasjues westward of Cayte Point, the west-
ern point of the mouth of the Cayte. I'iraussii Hill appears like a high blutf, and per-
pendicular point, close to the sea, with red clilVs'on its eastern side.
At 5t leaa;ne.s \V, by N. from Piraussu Hill is Point Atalaia, distin^^nished by a watch-
tower, havim; a aun which is occasionally fired when a vessel is approachiu};. On mak-
ing; this, and keepiug a good look-out, the smoke may be seen. At this place are two
eminences of wliite sand, and immediately west of the point is the inlet or bay of Mara-
cnno, havin<r .5 and G fathoms of water, and sjood ground.
RIO PARA. — Point Tigioca, the eastern point of the mouth of the Para, is 9 leagues
west from Atalaia Point ; and within tliis, at the distance of 7 miles to the S. W. is Point
Tapua. Here an extensive bank extends 2 leagues from shore between the two points,
and to the northward are tlie Tigioca shoals and breakers, the positions and nature of
* According to a late survey.
V
m\
542
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
which c;in bo understood only by relerenoo lo the cliiirts. Tlie passage in is betwtrn
tlu'se sbotil-i, iuid iiiis a depth of ]t2, 1 1 . mid 15 latii(Miis. at about II miles iVom tlit
soiiilicni siiore, in latitude U^ 2',V .S. Tliere is, also, a cliaiuu'l for small vess(.'ls. ;it .",
miles iVom slioie, and alonio; the edge of the l?axo do Horonoco, tiie bank which exteudj
iVoni I'oint Ticiioea, as already n()tic'(>d.
l)lRl':C''ri(J.\S KOK JWRA.— Vessels bound to Para should endeavor to ni;ikp
the land about Salina or C'avte, whieh lies to the eastward ol'Salina, and is reniaiknlil,.
for its white sand hills, steeiiog to tin,' westward, keeping the land in siijlit G or? nuKs
distant, you will make llie Point Atalaia, which has a house near its extreme point, and
immediately after will see the village of Snlina, w liich faces the sea, and easily percei\(i|
in clear weather by its white i)uil(lings. Here vessels take a pilot for I'ara, and iidi,,.
should not come oil' by making a si<:nal, you will liave to send the i)oat on shore furdiic.
Should you not see Salina, or (ind any ditliculty in |)rocuring a pilot, by attenilin-
to the following directions you will (ind no difficulty in passing the shoals, or going up
the river.
The lanil between Salina and Tigioea runs about W. by N. about 4 leagues. ']'./
the westward of Salina you will sec; a point of land, S. W. of whieh are two reauirk;il,li.
white sand hills, and by keeping a good lookout at the mast-head you cannot p;iss tliii:i
without seeing them, they being the only thing remarkable between Salinas and Tiginci,
and is a good departure to run between the slioals. 1'igioca lies about 17 miles to ili,.
westward of tliisland, and is alow point. You will have running along 11, I'J, 14 nnd
15 fathoms water channel-way, ami be carel'ul in sounding ; come no nearer tlic hm,]
than 9 or 10 miles, as you approach Tigioea, for fear of getting into the Well, which is
a dangerotis place, and oftentimes deceives strangers by supposing it to be a good clian-
nel inside, as most of the books and charts represent, but sliould never be attenipicdbv
any. The Weil (or entrance of do.) is aliout 5 or b miles to the north and eastwani 1 1
Point Tigioea, and has from -Jl) to '.?H fathoms water: by getting tliat soundirii;s voi;
may jud'ie immediately you are in the Well, for there are no such soundings any where
about that ])art of the roast. Haul olV as soon as possible to tlie south and east, to
avoid tlie Pda^anca liank, for in that soundings you are not far off danger : perli;\;is tiif
next soundings you may not have more than 2 or-'! fathoms and less, as I have lijunili;
to be the case in going through that channel with a boat, and sounded all the way. soine-
times not 6 feet, and breakers both sides. ] have been the more exact in pointing om
the danger of this channel, that it may never be attempted by any, and if unt'ortinintilv
you should happen to get in, and your water shoalens, if flood tide, coiue to anclior niii!
wait for the ebb, and then you should not haul olt'tlic land too sudden, for fearoftlio
Braganca Hank, which is inside of you, and which you cannot avoid seeing, as it break'
constantly unless at liigli water, and the sea perfectly smooth, which seldom hapjiciisto
be the case, that a vessel can pass it without seeing.
Running for tin- Channel hchvccn Tigioea and Braganca Banks.
When you make '^Pigioca Point from the mast-head, and runnini alons the lam! so
that you can see it plain from the deck, (say <t or 10 miles.) vou will soon discover th'
Braganca breakers tVom aloft, which lueak very hiiih on the lari)oard band going in. anil
is the best mark to run in Ijy. The tide runs very rapid in this channel, and tjie seaai
times, and for the most considerable. The ripple caused by the tide at times appear*
to a stranger like shoal water, where there are jirobably from 14 to 15 fathoms water,
and while the Hraganca is in sight you need not be a|)preliensive of any danger. I()rtii?
bank is steep close lo the breakers, and you should |)ass within 'i miles of them, or even
less, and when Tigioea Point bears about .^. I'), by 8. Braganca distant about ier"
miles, you may liaul up about S. W. to avoid Tigioea Shoal, which lies outside of ynii.
and streteh(!s to the soutli and west, and breaks heavy at the east part, but seldom sien
going tlirough tliis channel, and should your water shoalen. approaching said shonl.
(which will not be the case whilst the land is in si(rht plain from the deck,) haul mnrp
to the south, and your water will deepen immediately ; you may then procec! up llif
mer by keeping the Braganca in sight, which will always be a sure guide for goin'.' in.
keeping them at a distance about 'J miles, more or less, as the courses given may be al-
fected more or less by the tides.
The land iietween Tigioea and Point Taiper is broken, appearing in spots of small
islands, which makes them more remarkalile, and near to Taiper is a dry sand hank
about 5 miles from the land, amltollie south of which, al)ieas* of Point Taiper, is good
anchorage, in aliout 7 or H fathoms water, and is where pilots come to anchor oiitwani
bound to wait an opportunity of riinning out between the shoals on account ofiieiiicj
less exposed to the heavy sea which sets in with the flood tide, and out of the streugtb j
of it.
BLUxXt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
543
snge ill is between
11 miles iVoin tlir
siiiitll vessels, iit .j
;uiU wliicli exti'iiils
endeavor to nuike
, and is renKiriviiljlc
1 siijlit T) or 7 miles
extreme puint, -.imI
Hid easily perceiMil
for Para, and ildi.e
)at on shore I'or oiie.
1 pilot, l)y attendiif:
sliuals, or going ii|i
[)nt 4 leagups. T»
are two remailiahle
)U eamiot pnss tluw
Salinas and Ti!:iiic:i.
)()ut 17 miles to tli,.
dong 11, 1~'- 14 aiiij
? no nearer tlie Inml
) the Well, whicli IS
it to 1)6 a good cliaii-
ever be attcniplcdby
orth and eastwanl (f
that sonndinsis yoi;
sonndinijs any where
^ sonth and east, tn
dancer ; perha;);, tiie
ss, as I have t'oumli;
led alltlic way, some-
3xa('t in pointiiii; mi!
and it'unt'ortiiniili'iy
come to anchor nml
den. for fear of th"
seeinix, as it bvc;ik«
h seldom liapiiciislo
BanJxS.
nfr alon^: tlie land sn
vill soon discover til*
rd hand goiniff in, ain!
innel, and the seaai
.ide at times appfMi^
0 15 t'athonis waier.
,r any danger, roriii'
iiiles'oi'them, or even
1 distant about '2 ir "
h lies outside ot vox
.art, but seldom seen
vroachinjr said sluml.
the deck.) haul nimf
hen ')rocer! n\) lli'
,c guide for goin': in.
rses given may be at-
ing in spots ol' siiiab
)■ is a drv sand b'.ink
'oint Taiper. istziioJ
le to anchor outw.na
on account otbi'inj
d out of the streiigtli ]
Point Taiper is about 11 miles from Tigioca j'oint. Tlie land between Taiper and
Vi'zia lies about S. W. by W. and N. E. by E. distant about 17 miles, between which,
kiepin
iippro.K
i at a distance from 5 to 4 miles, yon will have ') to 10 fathoms water, and as y
ou
h \
I'fia vour water wil
shoal
en
;ra(
liially to !-! and 7 tathoms. 'J'he point of
V'igia is remarkable in coming from the northward, and as you draw to tlie southward
imuilier point will open which show.s the entrance of Vigia. IJe careful not to ap-
iioacli too near Vigia, as there is a shoal stretches o(f about N. W. by N. 2 miles from
ilhern part of the land, which forms the entrance ; and noith Irom the souther
1
the no
|];u
t which forms the eiurance to \'i
iria.
or nearl
o miles. Iiard sand
th
I)
igia IS a
siiiidl li.'^hing town, and cannot be seen in passmg, as there is an island in front of it,
which stands some distance from the entrance.
Kunniiig along the land, at the distance of 4 miles, you will have 7, P, and 'i fathoms
towards (Jolares, it being a small villagt- which faces the water, and is very easily dis-
tin"uished by its white buildings, distant from the south point of the land (> or 7 miles.
Olf this village, or between it and V'igia, is good anchorage about ;j miles from the land,
sticky bottom. Be careful not to come too close to Colarcs, as there is a reef of rocks
tli;u stretches off nearly tvo miles.
If night is coming on, it is advisable not to ])ass f'olares, but come to an anchor and
wait until morning, and to know when you |)ass Colares, your water will deepen very
soon after as you approach the 15ay de Sal, which will he open to your view. Bay de
Sal is a large deep hay, being about 4 or o miles wide at the entrance.
Be careful not to get into tliis bay, as it is danger(uis, being full of rocks, and no safe
anchorage, and has sometimes been taken for JJay St. Anthony. Between Bay St. An-
thony and Colares there is no good anclun-age that can be recommended with safety,
the water being very deep, particularly abreast the Bay de Sal, where you will have
bom 16 to 18 and 'JO fathoms water, wliich is iM)t the case any where else in the river.
Colares bearing west about 5 miles, steer from S. S. W. to S. S. W. ^ W. You will
then pass two small islands on your larboard haml, one abreast of the land, which forms
the Bay de Sal, (S. part,) the otlier about :', miles to the S. and W. Jn approaching
these islands your course will draw you towards the land, hut come no nearer than two
miles, as there are rocks wliicli stretch ofl' about H mile, with 7 fathoms close to tliem ;
therefore 8 or 9 fathoms is near enough. As you draw up with the south island, you
niiike the island of Taluock nearly ahead. Be ciucful in drawing up to this island not
to come too close to it, as there are rocks stretching oD' it to Xorth Tatuock, between
'J and ;5 miles. Leave this island on your starboard hand after passing the small island
previously mentioned, 4 or o miles; you may then haul in for the land which forms
the Bay St. Anthony. The shore becomes bold and witliout danger. The Bay St.
Anthony is a fine ch^ar bay, good anchorage all lhrf)ns;h from 5 to 7 and 8 fatiioms,
and by liauling into the bay if you want to anchor, |)arlicularly the southern part close
in, which forms a lee, you will have the sea jjerteclly smooth, good shelter trom the
wind, ami out of tlie strength of the tide ; but if you want to proceed to town, steer
across the bay, the wind being always fair for going u|): you will then see several isl-
ands: keep between them and the point which forms the sonth part of the bay, (or
Point Penheiro,) which is close to. Vou will soon see a small island called Paraquet
Island, open to your view, and appears at a distance to be close in to the main land.
When you pass Point Penheiro, steer directly for it, leaving it on your larboard hand
close aboard, as it is on the very edge of the channel. It is so bold close to this island
tiiat you need not he afraid tc- jiass within the length of your vessel of it, and it is re-
quisite you should pass close to it, as the channel becomes narrow as you pass it, hav-
ing a shoal flat of sand on your starboard hand. The fort, which stands on a small isl-
and, wil) open plain to your view. About two miles distant from this island steer for
it, giving it a bertl' 'Tlialf a cable's length on the larboard hand, where you must send
the boat on shore with your papers, or coirie to anchor : tlie latter is |)rei"erable for a
stranger, as the channel is very narrow. When
ou W(!igh anchor steer
for P
ara, or
ty of Belem, which will be open and plain to your view, distant about 5 miles from
fort, keeping the laud distant about one mile ou your larboaid hand, ami as you approach
the town, haul in for tin; shi|)ping, or ( ustom-house, the next large building to St. An-
thony's ('hurcli, which is the (irst or nearest church in co
ming u|) the river
ther
you
m
ly anchor abreast the custom-house, where you will have to land your cargo.
N. B. — There is a shoal of considerabh> length runs between the island of iMarnjo and
the main laiul that runs m^arly north and soulli, which the sea constantly breaks on.
1, being abreast of Colares, or that part
rarest distance of said shoal from the m;
un lam
of the laud which forms the Bay de Sal. distant 7 or 8 milt
High water, lull and change, at I'ara, I'J o'clock.
■m
Do, entrance between the ohoala
10
544
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
From the mouth of the river, within Point Tigioca, the distance to the basin or an-
chorage ot' Para, is tiO leagues. Ail the western side of the river is shoal, but on tho
eastern side are even soundings of d, 7, 8, 9, 10, 7, 10, 1^, 9, 7, and (> tathonis. In the
basin itself are from 5 to 3 fathoms.
A vessel direct from sea, with good observations, may cross tlie equator on the mr..
ridian of 45^^, where soundings, from 50 to 40 I'athoms, may be found. A course iifucp
W. l)y S. will lead towards Alaracuno Inlet, on the east of which a pilot may l)e (,],.
tained. Tiie soundings over the bank decrease gradually, I'rom 40 to 15 fathoms; ami
it is to be observed that the flood tide sets strongly to the west, while the winds arefinm
the east.
The flood sets into the Rio Para at the rate of 4 miles an hour. The beginning from
the eastward is very rapid, and it veers gradually to the N. E. and N. The vertical
rise is 10 feet.
Vessdx outward hound, from point Ikpua, steer according to the tide, keeping tli^t
point S. E. to the distance of fifteen or sixteen miles. With Cape Magoary then in sigln,
haul up N. E. or N. N. E., taking care to avoid the banks of St. Rosa on the wtst. Tl.p
wind here being generally from the eastwanl, with frequent squalls, great caution is ip-
quired. In thick weather, when Cape Magoary cannot be seen, the approach to Si.
Rosa's Bank may be known by the soundings becoming irregular, which is not thecjsf
to the eastward of the channel. The weather shoals should be kept on board as inucli
as possible.
Description of Pernamhiico Bay, and Instructions to sail in and ont of it.
Cape St. Antonio is the land vessels bound to *Pernambuco must endeavor to ma!,e
first. The coast north of Cape Antonio forms a bay, in the centre of which lies IVr-
nambuco. At the extreme end of this coast, N. 17^ E., stands Olinda Point ; half wnv
from Olinda Point to Semambius, the church of Nossa Senhora Do Rosario is l)uilt on
a height; its two towers are easily distinguished when coming from the main sea; do-
ing along the coast at two to four miles distance, there are IL* to 19 fathoms water.
When you have ascertained Cape St. Antonio, you must keep at two or three mile*
from the shore, until you perceive the Fort of Picao, between the N. W. and \V. .\.
W. and then steer in a straight line to the Fort built on the breakers, and you will upv
it until the Cocoa-tree of Olinda (which stands between the two highest i)uil(iin;>
of the city) appears N. -,V E. of you. In this situation you will stand within two or tliw
thousand yards of the breakers, which form a key. This anchorage is not of the best.
large ships ought never go nearer, and it is prudent never to cast anchor in bad wcatlicr.
West of the meridian of the Cocoa-tree of Olinda, notwithstanding the contrary is gpiior-
ally j)rescribed, going to Pernambuco during the northern monsoon, it is best to malielari
on Olinda Point. From Olinda Point up to the Fort of Picao, there is a shoal e.xteiil-
ing two miles from the .shore towards the sea, which makes it necessary to keep at three
miles distance, and by a depth of water from H to 10 fathoms, until the Fort Picao siai:';
west, a few degrees towarrls the north, by which you will avoid the English bank.Hhii::
is formed by sandy rocks lying at the southern end of Olinda bank. That does nnt ex-
tend further east than the meridian of Olinda City, nor farther south than the parallel
of Fort Ciesco. The sea breaks there with great violence in heavy wind, though liieie
are 2 fathoms of water. Small vessels may avoid it to the west and north, keepitig atli;i:i
a mile froiri the main land from Pernand)uco up to Olinda Point, but this vessel sliili
not require over three to five fathoms, and it is indispensable to have on board a pilot lor
the place.
The harbor of Pernaiubuco is not a very safe one, for vessels of a great draiiglitoi
water are not able to cross the bar; for the swell of thj sea is very great outside, amli;
too near the shore, there will be great danger should the anchor drag or the ship tailn
the leeward, when getting under sail, which may become indispensable should the winil
turn S. S. E. or E. N. E. as is the case in the month of March and Septeiuber. Duriii;
the northern monsoon the prevalent winds are from the east, particularly at the timeol
new or full moon, and though the weather is clear and fine generally, yet it reijiiires to
be careful in the anchorage, and the surest will be not to cast anchor too near the sjinrp,
the bottoir ueing very re nky, and requisite to make use of chain cables in this place innrf
than in any other. Large vessels will do well to be all limes in readiness to get uiiiIit
sail, and prudence requires to let fall every evening a second anchor for safety duiiu;
the night. ,
If there is any necessity to remain a long time at Pernambuco, the best way will be
* At the entrance of Pernambuco a lighuhouse is erected, showing a revolving light, as prcv
ously mentioned.
BLUM S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
545
the basin or nn-
shoal, but on the
'athoins. In tlie
untor on tht- mp.
A course liriiiT
pilot miiy he ol..
15 fathoms ; wA
he winds arefiiHii
le beginninc; from
N. The venical
tide, kecr/mg tiw
^oaiy then insight,
on the west. Thf
;reat caution is ip-
lie approach to Si
lich is not theca>e
on board as imich
.nd out of it.
t endeavor to mulie
of which lies IVr-
hi Point ; half wav
Rosario is built rni
1 the main sea; go-
"athoms water,
two or three mile*
N. W. and \V. N.
■s, and you will iiPiir
0 highest buililir:<
1 within two ortlii<e
e is not of the hcM
•hor in bad weather.
]ie contrary is gener-
t is best to niake lanil
|-e is a shoal cxteivi-
arv to keep at thief
lie Fort Picaoslnnii?
nglish bank, wliii'..
That does not e\-
ith than the parallfi
wind, though iliere
lorth, keeping at lia'.l
but this vessel s\d\
on board a pilot I'm
If a great draught oi 1
Threat outside, aiulii
lia or the sliipl'ail:^
[ible should the wbi
Keptember. Dnriiij
jularly at the time ol
ly, yet it recptirestn
1)1- too near tlie shore. |
les in this i)liicc more
[idiness to get under
lor for safety imw; I
the best way will be
Living light, as previ-
to cast the two anchors oft" the cat-head, toward the main sea, with another toward the
\V. N. V'^ • on the stern of the ship, in order to prevent the ship from swinging during
the calm which comes after every squall of wind.
The liarbor of Pernanibuco is sufficiently spacious and deep for vessels from 10 to 12
feet draught of water; it is divided into two parts; the interior pari, which is called the
Poco, (tlie W ell) is an anchorage situated on the northern end. The entrance is formed
1)V several rock., or banks of small stones. There are from 17 to 30 feet water on the bar,
as well as inside. The shore is sandy, and the water decreases in depth, in proportion
as you go toward the land. The only guard vessels have from the winds coining from
the sea, are the rocks or breakers before stated ; but they are very deficient for that pur-
pose, and during the southern monsoon this place is not at all safe. The second part of
the Fort is called Recife Port: it is comprised between the natural quay of rocks and
the city : it is also called Mosqueirao. This harbor is better guarded than the former,
by the quay of rocks, which, at low water mark,Tire from 8 to 10 feet above the sea ; but
to reach in the Mosqueirao, it is necessary to cross the bar, on which, at low water mark,
there are but 7 feet water.
If you wish to carry your vessel in the Poco harbor, you must proceed as follows. —
Being situated as we have already stated, inside of the English bank, the cocoa-tree of
Olinda N. rV K. of you, you must see a small pyramid built on the shore, in a straight
line with the church of San Amarao, which is surrounded with cocoa-trees; in this sit-
uation the church and pyramid stand very near the west of the wood, and you must fol-
low that direction until you perceive south of you the Fort Picao. If you wish to go
into Mosqueirao you will have to steer S. ^ W. from that place.
Small vessels sometimes used to pass through the south entrance to reach Mosqueirao,
which is at the northern end of the quay of rocks, wliereon Fort Picao is built. The
mark to direct your course in this case is, to keep the t vo corner towers of the southern
end of Fort Brun in the same direction, and consequently the one covering the other,
ami true west; sail in this direction until you see the Fort Picao south of you ; then
steer along the western side of the breakers, and you will reach the harbor. There is
no great danger in going near the breakers; it is customary with pilots, when called, to
roine to take vessels lying in the bay. We again repeat, that vessels trading with Per-
nanibuco must not draw over from 10 to T^ feet water.
The two harbors of Pernambuco are safer than the bay, ships being sheltered frotn
the too great swell of the sea by the breakers or (piay of rocks ; but when the wind stands
east and blows hard, it requires to be well secured.
The prevalent winds are, as in the tropical climate, from S. S. E. to N. N. E.; from
March to Se])tember, they are more toward the south, and sometimes S. W.; during the
other six months they stand E. N. E. and N. N. E.
DcscrijHion of the Coast comprised beticrrn Cape St. Antonio, and Olinda Point, the mouth
of the St. Francisco River, and Cape St. Augustine.
Froiu Itapuanzinho Point up to Itapuan, the coast bears no longer the same appear-
ance as it docs previous to your arrival at Bahia. Here the shore is but sandy and low,
few trees are to be perceived at a distance, and from jilace to place some cocoa-trees.
All along the shore a ridge of rocks are to be met, and in many instances they rise above
the level of the sea; the one at the Itapuan Point jiarticularly, seems like small islands.
Thirty-eight miles farther N. 45° E. of Itapuan Point, you are opposite the Torre de
Garcia of Avila, a kind of fort, built on the top of the coast, among the trees, and which
is now used as a house for signals. The coast viewed froin 9 to 10 miles distant, appears
like a wall of great magnitude and equal height, except where the two rivers San Joan-
nes and .Taeuhypc discharge into the sea, where a large cut appears in this wall. The
depth of the sea is very great opjiosite this ])lace, for being only 10 miles distant, no
sounding is to be met. From Torre of Avihi up to Oiteras of San Miguel, the shore is
more high, but with small hills.
All the coast from Rio Real up to Rio St. Francisco is low and sandy, with small broom
j bushes, and small hills are discovered at no great distance in the interior. A vessel may
approach very near the land, the bottom is sandy, with gravel and broken rocks. The
p next river after Rio Real, is Rio Sergipe, which is 1>1 miles distant from Vassa Barris.
The mouth of this river, when viewed at no great distance, is easily distinguished by the
1. three small hills of an equal height, all covered with briars, lying 9 miles S. W. of the
bar. These hills are called the Ostres Irmaos, (or Three Brothers.)
At '.he mouth of the Sergipe River, a very white sand beach is to be seen, whose color
r 'tr' es with the green ground of the coast all around. At the bar the sea breaks with
f; great force at the time; t'rom which we must infer a shallow water. The rivers which
'^ tome next in succession are, Cotombeda River, near the Miserias Point, and Japaratuba
69
I'l
1
msm^\
------- — •""Utiiiiff
546
BLUNT'S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Points, south of the mountains of Pacatuba ; the country round Collndlba Tliver, is nnr
of the most productive in sugar, cotton, tobacco, dec. There are but 7 feet wntor at thr-
bar. When viewing the bar W. the Mount Aracajou stands a lew lenj^nes N, \V, ai,r|
in the west Morro Teiha is discovered. 'J'iie Moiinl Ararajnu seems to run in a \nm\\,\
direction with the coast, and in its northern extremity .i der]) cut is to lie peictivf.,],
The second mount bears tlie sliape of a Quaker's hat. Tlie coast from Kio Idapamuilia
up to Si. Francisco River, is very dant^eroiis in a strong S. K. wind, for vessels gojn,
near the land, they having no good ciiance to escape tlie wind, and the bott-.im too luril
for the anchor to have a good hold in it. Prudence requires to keep at some disianio
from it.
Near St. Francisco River the land is very low, and cannot be seen even at a short djs.
tance, for which reason great care is required to make land near St. Francisco. Th?
only mountains to be discovered at a distance are the Itabayanna and Pacatuba, butor'v
in line clear weather, and when exactly opposite the River St. Francisco. The entranr'e
of this river lies south of Manguinha Point, which is very low, and all covered wnl,
Mongel trees. It jjrojects E. S. E. and, at 1^ mile distant from it, in its direciiori.
there are dangerous breakers. The north of the entrance is formed by a land more m
than the former, having a white sand, and in its projection into the sea there are no k
dangerous breakers than on the other southern points. It is between these breakers vo'i
must cast anchor until a pilot comes on the bar. There are from 12 to 1.3 leet waipr,
the country is very populous, well cultivated, and produces great quantities of sn;ar;
when near, the land from St. Frarcisco River up to Alagoas is low and sandy, and i
ridge of rocks at no great distance from the shorei s to be seen. Many small rivet;
discharge into the sea, but none of a sufficient depth to be navigated; they may be ap-
proached very near without danger.
Opposite Cururippe, three miles distant from the shore, stands the rock of DomEo?.
rigo. This rock, as well as several smaller ones to be seen only at low water mark.
have been designated by some as tlie (Josniographer Banks of St. Francisco, aci
stated to be very dangerous, but without the least reason. We found all around th
place a great depth of water, and the shallow wator will not extend over 3 miles, k
supposing it to extend as fiir as the Iquia, as there is no reason to keep so near the lanii,
one will do better, at all events, to remain at a greater distance than 4 miles. An in:-
portant observation is to be made on this part of the Brazil coast, and agreed to bv tl.»
natives, which is this, that the land-breeze during the night time is hardly periri.od.
when 4 or 5 miles from the land, but at daylight it begins to reach that distance, anj
seems to attract the eastern wind towards the north u.; 1 12 in the morning ; aniiaKer
•wards the eastern wind returns gradually towards the east: from that fact ve.s.sels mm
derive some benefit on either course, when obliged to beat. Near San Miguel the .sliorf
is very bold, and nearly 80 feet high, and the top perfectly even and horizontal for a;
open space of 15 miles. When coming from the southernmost, the village of Macav?
is to be discovered on the top of a highland. The church is easily distinguislie.l ; ati
for this reason the placo deserves notice. Th.; .Jaragua River empties below Maravo,
and the point which forms the northern land of the mouth is covered with coco,i trm
and very animated breakers are to be seen at some distance in its direction. Norih c
Macavo and from the interior, the mount of Marambaya is discovered 'ven at 45 miif;
distal. t. This mount offers this particular, that the country on which it stands, thoiu;
high, is very level on every side of its base. The shore north of Macayo is sanHv, k:
from place to place of a reddish color; low trees are seen not far distant' from the sliorf
The Fort of Tamandare, though not very important, deserves some notice, bpin^rib
only place affording a safe shelter between Bahia and Pernambuco. This anchoracpi'
formed by a deep cut into a bold shore, and is sufficiently large and deep for admiitiii:
large vessels.
Nine miles N. I N. E. of Tamandare Harbor, lies the small island or rocks of Alexo,
situated at the mouth of the small river Serenhen. Previous to your arrival there, llie
bar of Rio Fermoso is discovered. AVhen you observe the two rocks of Alexo toaether,
they stand N. 6° W. ; then north of these two rocks Monte Do Sella is discovered in
the interior, which derives its name from its shape, (Little Saddle,) and may be useliil
to ascertain the situation of a ship.
Being a few miles east of the rocks of St. Alexo, you will distinctly perceive the Caff
of St. Augustine, lying 16 miles N. 18^ E. This cape is hardly covered with woodaiii
not very thick ; it is of a moderate height, which decreases gradually towards the sea. !i
offers the particular remark, that a steep beach of a red yellow <;olor is to be seen ici
many places of it : it has a barren prospect when nearing it ; on its top there is achunbir
towards the north side, a little below the church, fortifications are to be seen.
wind to be me
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
547
idiba "Rivor, is nnr
7 let;! wntor at ihr-
pnrrnos N, W. ai),|
to mil in a \y.\n\\,\
is to lie I)f!IC(ur.,|
111 Kio Idapanuiil.a
, for vessels ccinj
;ie i)ott'.)in too Iwril
[) at some ilislano
even at a short di*.
. Francisco. Tli?
Pacatnl)a, biitnr',
100. The entranfo
1(1 all covered wuh
it, in its (lirectinn,
by a land more 'm
ea there are no Ui
1 these breakers \T,i
2 to l^ I'eet wii'ipr,
[uantities of siinnr;
w and sandy, and \
Many small rivet<
d ; they may be ap-
e rock of DnmRnr.
at low water nip.rt,
St. Francisco, an:
bund all around tk-
id over o miles, i:.
eep so near the laM,
in 4 miles. An iir-
nd aj;;reed to by tl.»
is hardly percei.oii,
h that distanee. wi
morning ; andafiPi-
that fact vessels mav
an Miguel the slior*
nd horizontal for i:
le village of Macav:
distinguisheil: aci
pties below JIaravo,
ed with cocoa tree'.
iiipction. Norlli (
red 'ven at 45 miW
ich it stands, tluni;:
lacayo is santiy, w.:
slant from the shore
nie notice, brine ib
This anchnracpii
.1 deep for admittic;
id or rocks of Alew,!
nir arrival there, the I
(s of Alcxo tojeiher,!
!ella is discovered inl
,) and may be useliil
ly perceive the Tapl
lered witli wood, anil
towards the sea, 111
'olor is to be seen iJ
op iliere isachimli'.|
:t be seen.
Dcsr.rijJlion of the Bay of All Saintii, or Bahia — Instructions to go in and out of tliit
Harbor,
A'essels bound to Bahia during the soutiiern monsoon should make land near Saa
I'aiilo. If during the nortliern monsoon they will do better to make land north of Ita-
fiuiin, which is a little further north than Cape St. Antonio. Upon the whole this will
ile;K'iiii ou the accuracy of the day's work, the actual situation of the vessel, and the
wind to be met with when nci'r the coast. The main entrance of the Bay of Bahia,
failed likewise St. Salvador, is formed by the cape or promontory of St. Antonio on the
..ast, and by the Island of Itaparica on the west. The mean distance from the Cape St.
Antuiiiu to Itaparica Island is not less than 4 miles, but the one half only of this chan-
nel, which is towards the main land, is safe for navigation of large ships. If from the
Morro San Paulo, you steer N. 41)^ E., with a favorable wind, you will pass at the pro-
per (iistiuice of the bold shore of Itaparica Island, and of the breakers of St. Antonio ;
but if yoii are obliged to b'at, it requires care to avoid both places.
Nothing is to be feared by keeping at e(|ual distance from the main land, on which
stand San Paulo, Mount Arod, Itaparica, until you discover towards the north, the Ja-
buru Point, which is the eastern end of Itaparica Island. Arrived opposite Point Ara-
tuba, you are now 7 miles from Jaburu, and 5 miles S. 41° W. of Cape St. Antonio,
and nearly 15 miles W. of the southern extremity of the breakers of St. Antonio. From
iliat situation you must direct your course straight towards the Cape of St. Antonio
until two miles only from the shore : from thence steer straight towards the church of
Bo.n Fiiu, (situated on tlie Point of Moiitferrate,) until you reach the Fort Do Mars, or
J>ant iMarcello, near which is the usual ancho ige.
The Flat of St. Antonio, lying 4 miles S VV^. of Cape St. Antonio, there is no dif-
ficuliy to av((id it, and is altogetli r;ot vc v ( igerous. It is a sandy bank of a reddish
color : no rocks are to be met th.re, and 4 , iionis of waterare to be foutui every where.
Such is the opini(»n of the natives, and of the most experienced 'nen ; but having per-
ceived some places where the sea breaks on this bank during strong wind, I would sug-
gest to keep a distance from this ])lace with a large ship, which is the case when fol-
Kiwing the course we have described. The general anchorage f"or merchant vessels is
iniide of the line drawn from the Fort of Marto Montferrate Point. It is necessary
when going to this anchorage to avoid the sandy bank of Panella. which we Irad no
chance to ascertain, but it is ri'ported by the natives as a very shallow water of 3 to 3^
fathoms only, lying W. ] N. W. from Fort Do Mar.
It is generally the ease that the wind permits you to come to anchor in front of St.
Salvador, the most prevalent wind being from E. and from S. E., and vessels can gene-
rally go in by plying small board. During the night time, the breeze comes from seve-
ral points of the compass, but move generally from the land side. The tides are per-
fectly regular from St. Salvador, and the Hood and low water last an equal time. The
harbor is very safe, and there are only a few instances when a strong wind from S. W,
blows, that the water is much swelled, and the ships do not ride easy.
Tlie course to follow when goinu out of St. Salvador, is very near the reverse to the
•one to proceed in. When one mile distant west of Cape St. Antonio, and steering 4^
miles S. S. W. of the same, the shallow water will be avoided, and afterwards you may
,go round the cape into the open sea. All the lands near Cape St. Antonio are tolerably
tiiljh. if compared to those of the opposite side. They are of a pleasing appearance,
being covered with trees, and a luxurious veiietation of a green color. This shore in
^line weather can bo discovered from ;?0 miles distant. On the end of St. Antonio Cape,
JBt.mds a liirhthouse, not verv lii<rli, which in night time can only he seen from 12 to 15
:nilcs. In the day time, when the lighthouse bears \V., the fort of St. Antonio appears
IS separated at a small distance from the main land. Two and a half miles east, a few
logrees south of the lighthouse, there is another land point, on the top of which stand
[he poles for signals. This last point forms wiih the Itapuanzinho Point, which stands
me mile east of a small bay. Many houses are to be seen along the sea coast.
ISLE OF TIllNIDAD AND MARTIN VAS' ^OCKS.— Descriptions and Di-
kctions. — In approaching Trinidad from the eastward, when running on its parallel, you
iil make the three islets or rocks of Martin Vas', which may be seen at the distance of
light or nine leagnes from a ship's deck. These rocks are very remarkable, and cannot
)e mistaken. They lie north and south of each other, the distance from the outer rock
)eing about three miles. The central rock is very high, with ttifts of withered grasa
Icattered over ils surface. The other two are entirely barren. There is a passage be-
tween the southernmost and central rocks. The northernmost i. most join. In clear
feather Trinidad is distinctly seen froiu tlie rocks of Martiu Vas', and may be descried
'l6 leagues off.
548
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
The island is about G miles in rircuinferrnce, the land very unoqna!, and at hrst nn
more than a cluster of rocks, with some shrubs in the valleys. The northirnniost sid,.
is quite barren, but to the southward all the interstices of the rocivs are lilled witli ever-
greens of several kinds. There is also a <|uantity of sea-fowl and rncU-fish, imd niaijv
wild hogs. The generality of the wood is very small, though the/ 'e trees of eighteen
inches diameter towards the extreme heights.
Trinidad is surrounded by sharp rugged coral recks, with an almost continual siirce
breaking on every part, which renders the landing often precarious, and watering fre.
quently impracticable; nor is there a possibility of rendering cither certain, for the
surge is often incredibly great, and has been seen during a gale at S. W., to break over
a bluff which is 200 feet high.
The island is supplied with very good water from two small streams down the E.niul
S. W. sides of it ; besides a snuill issue from the rock which forms the S. \V. extremiiv,
not one of them will fill a tube of 6 inches in diameter, and there is a doubt whether
these run temporary or perennial, though they always produce a small quantity of wa.
ter, sufficient to preserve the existence of a few wretched inhabitants. Lieut. Tlioiii;n
Harrison, from whose account this detail of Trinidad is chiefly extracted, speakini; ci
the anchorage, says that they anchoi d off the west side of the island, at a mile from
the shore, to be able to weather it on any tack, should the wind happen to blow on,
" being directed," continues that gentleman, " to do so by Captain De Auvergne, mIiq
informed us of the wreck of the Rattlesnake, and the miraculous escape of the Ju|iiitr
and Mercury." They prudently avoided the common anchorage, which is about a
musket shot from the shore, in 18 or 20 fathoms water. On that side there stands a
stupendous arch or hole in the rock, like that of Fernando Noronha, and two verj re-
markable rocks, one called the Monument and the other the Sugar-loaf.
The Monument is 850 feet high, of a cylinclriral form, and almost detached from tlie
island, with large trees growing on its top. This had been named in 1700, by Lr.
Halley, the Nine Pin. The Sugar-loaf, at the S. E. end, is 1160 feet high, of a conitdi
form, with trees likewise on its summit, and whenever it rains hard, a cascade of 7l
feet, makes there a beautiful appearance. 'JMie arch is a natural passage made by tie
sea through a high bluff of about 800 feet high. It is 40 feet in breadth, nearly 50 1'eei
in height, and 420 in length; the depth of water above 3 fathoms. When the sea ii
moderate, you may see through this arch into the only bay in the island, and liavei
view of a distant rock covered with trees, which renders the prospect extremely pic-
turesque.
Lieutenant Hamilton says "we first saw the island on the 5lh of June, on our passaje j
to the Cape of Good Hope, we had then variable winds and calms: and on making ii.|
second time on the 8th of November we had exactly the same winds and weather, sc-
companied with a heavy squall of wind from the westward. During our stay there, aboit
two months, the prevailing wind was from N. N. E. : hence I conclude the S. K. tiaii!!
wind is not to be depended upon, although the island is so far within the tropic oij
Capricorn.
The American commander, Amasa Delano, visited Trinidad in 1803, and hea:a:|
describes it as mostly a barren rough pij." of rocky mountains. What soil there isi:
the island he found on the eastern side, where there are several s;ind beaches, al)oveMt
of which the Portuguese had a settlement, and have he says done much to work sirtu
or roads over the valleys, levelling down small hills to make the roads good. Thcyli.
walled in a number of enclosures for the purjjose of making fields at the cxpensei:
much labor.
This settlement was directly above the most northerly sand beach on the east side:!
the island, and has the best stream of water on the island running through it. It iiiiiihilf
possible, he adds, in pleasant weather to get it off from this ])lacc, but we got ouisii?
the south side from the next best v;atering place or stream. This falls in a casciide ovei|
rocks someway u|) the mountain, so that it can be seen from a boat when passing it.-
Afteryou have discovered the stream you can land on a point of rocks just to tliewejij
ward of the watering place, and from thence may walk past it, and when a little toiLfl
eastward of the stream there is a small cove between the rocks, where you may lit
your casks off.
Wood may be cut on the mountain just above the first landing place, and yon cantaUl
it off if you have a small oak boat. The method in which we filled our water was carnai;|
it in kegs and buckets to the place where we floated our casks on shore.
All the south side, of the island is indented with small bays, but the whole is so irwl
bound a shore, and such a swell surging against it, that it is almost impossible to landzj
boat without great danger in staving it. The south part is a very remarkable hiali«(|i»"l
bluf^head, and is very larae. 'JMiere is a sand beach to the westward of this head, butlf
should caution against landing on the beach till it is well examined ; for just at the loweil
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
549
a!, iirid at brst nn
iiortluTiiMiost .siilc
re lillfd witli ivcr-
ck-'ish, iiiid iiKiiiv
•e trees of eightuen
)st continual siir^e
, and watering fre-
er certain, tor thp
W., to break ovtr
IS down the E.and
le S. \V. extrniiiiy,
18 a doubt wlictlier
lall quantity of wa.
s. Lieut. Thomas
racted, sjieakiiii; cf
and, at a mile from
happen to blow on,
De Auveri^ne, mIio
icape of the Jupiur
, which is about a
side there stands a
lia, and two verj re-
loaf.
it detached from tlie
ned in 1700, by Lr,
■et high, of a cnnir<,
rd, a cascade of 7i.
[jassage made by tlie
eadth, nearly 50 fen
3. When the sta ,i
3 island, and have i
pect extremely pic-
Tune, on our passajf j
and on making it.
nds and weather, at-
ur stay tliere. abon
ude the S. E. traiitl
ithin the tropic oi|
1R03, and he ajar.
,Vhat soil there isc.
I beaches, aliovc oi-
much to work strtt>
•rood. Thcyli.
ds at the expense l|
•h on the east sided' I
roujih it. It niishi-*!
hut we j;ot (iiiis
alls in a cascii(ieovei|
at when passing it.-
jtks iust to the«e«!l
d when a little tait«|
.-here you may tloi;!
ace, andyoncantaUj
r water was canyiui
diore.
the whole is so irK|
, impossible to bi;il|
markable hiali i"!'""?
■d of this head, lull
for just at the lowe-I
cntl of the beach and ainonsst the breakers it is full of rocks, which are not sren till you
arc anionast tliem. Where we landed we saw the remains of at least two or three boats
which had been knocked to jjicces by laiKliDji;. ^\'e found plenty of fjoafs and hogs. —
The latter were very shy, l)ut we killed some of them and a number of goats. We saw
some cats, and these three sorts of (piadnipeds were the only animals we saw on the is-
land. If :» ship is very tnuch in want of wood or water, it may be ^ot at Trinidad; or if
tiie crew should have the scurvy, it is an excellent place to recruit them in, as you can
(ret plenty of <.Mecns on the S. E. |)art of the island, such as fine purslane and several
other kin<ls. These, tojjether with the fine sweet water, would soon recruit a crew.
A ship must never be anchored at this ])lacr' with common cables, or she will be likely
(0 lose her anchors; but if she has chains for hor anchors, the rocks cannot cut them.
The naviijation is safe for a ship all around the island within the distance of a mile.
Martin \'as' rocks, or more ])ro|)erly islets, lie about east, nine leagues distant, but there
do nut appear to be any dangers between them and Trinidad.
MARTIN VAS' ROCKS. — These rocks, as noticed above, are high and barren.
The central one is the largest, and it may be seen from a ship's deck at the distance often
leagues. When bearini; south, the rocks seem neatly in a line. The northern and central
rocks are near each other, but betwi'cn the central and southern rocks is a good channel.
Here the Chesterfield, in l.SOO, observed the latitude 28^ 128', when she hove to in twelve
fathoms, with the largest rock E. N. E. about a mile, the bottom then visible, and caught
plenty of rock-cod arid other fish. The boat in sounding found the depth decrease gra-
dually over a rocky bottom to a fathom and a half, close to the largest rock.
The north rock is small and most westerly, all are steep and inaccessible ; the dis-
tance between the extremities is about three miles ; that to Trinidad, as already noticed,
about nine leagues.
ASCENCAO, or PORTTTCiUESE ASCENSION.— An island distinguished by this
name, has formerly been described, and said to be at the distance of about 100 leagues
to the westward of the Isle of Trinidad. Doubts have long since been entertained as to
its existence, and we have the best reason to believe that they are verified. La Perouse
in 1785 sought for it without success, as far as the longitude seven degrees west of
Trinidad, and M. Krusenstern, in 180:5, prosecuted the search so much further to the
westward, tliat its non-existence within ;^7^ west apjiears certain. Add to this that the
Governor of S. Catharine's informed M. Perouse that the Governor General of Brazil
bad dispatched a vessel in the i)receditig year, to survey the islatui, but it could not be
foinid, and it had consequently been expunged frotn the charts.
Notwithstanding this, it has been said that land was seen by the commander of the
Steamer Telica, on her passage to Peru in 1625, which appeared to lie in latitude 20^ 35'
and long. ;57° 8', or nearly so. At noon the vessel was in or about 20° 20' S. and long,
37" 28'. The island (if land) bore S. E. by E. i E. by compass, distant by estimatioa
about 8 leagues. But we mark this as very doubtful.
CONGRESS BANK. — In Brackenbridge's account of the voyage of the U. S. Frigate
Congress to Buenos Ayres in 1817, it is reported that Commodore Sinclair found some
extensive rocky (coral) soundings of 3-5 fathoms, and lost them in latitude 20^ 30' S. and
37° 30' W.
Description of the Const hrfwcen Bio Janeiro and the Bay of All Saints, sliorvingthe An-
clinruffe in tlie Harbor of Es/nrito S(i)ito, Porto Scuuiro, t^r. ^v. and near Capes Frio,
Tluinias, St. Paul, and Si. Ante
of Ahrolhos.
ntonio, with a description of tlie banks and small islands
Leaving the bay of Rio .Taneiro to proceed eastward, 14 miles distant, E. 15° S. of
the Sugar Loaf, you will find the two islands of Marice, situated nearly one league from
the sea-shore; they are not very high, their southern shore is quite perpendicular, and
there is no danger in going near them.
j.t 14 miles farther N. 77° E. of these islands, you meet Cape Negro, which is formed
by a hill not very high, adjoining to the liighest tnountains to be met with between Rio
Janeiro and Cape Frio, which, with its dark green tinge, (from which it derives its name,)
are quite sufficient to distinguish it. There is not the least danger in nearing it, for even
at the distance of three miles, the soundings are from 30 to 40 fathoius. nmddy bottom.
The sea-shore from Rio .laneiro to Cape Frio is low and sandy : the mountains which
surround that bay run first E. N. E. until you reach the meridian of Cape Negro, and af-
terward N. E., leaving an em|)ty flat between, over 10 leagues in extent, which is to be
seen from the sea in fine weather onlv.
Between Cape Negro and Cape Frio tlie land is low. and a few small hills are to be
perceived at some distance from the sea-shore, which is there sandy and bushy. On the
top of one of these stuall Lllb, 9 miles E. N. E. from Cape Negro, stands a church
550
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
dedicated to Nostra Dama de Nazcreth. At no great distance from the shore a ridge of
rociis and sand are to be seen at low water, and considered daimeroits by the coastini'
traders, bin without frood reason, as there are ;!() and 10 fathoms water at d miles distiiut,
muddy bottom, the depth inereasin-j; very fast toward the sea, and at 10 leagues disUiini.,
from 70 to 90 fathoms, bottom sanely, rocky, and muddy.
Though of little importance, it is proper to state that inside the beach, a flat of watci
can be seen. The depth of the sea near Kio .laneiro is very great, varying from 7(i i,,
90 fathoms, at the distance of 10 or 15 l«;agues, diminishing gradually toward the lanl,
The bottom is a mixture of coarse sand, gravel, broken shells, rocks and mud. In
some charts, S. S. E. from Cape Frio, distant 10 or 12 leagues, from 20 to 25 fathuiiij
have been marked, but we believe it incorrect.
CAPK FKIO, (on which tliere is a lighthouse with a revolving light, wliich is visible
2 minutes and eclipsed 2 minutes, and can be seen 40 miles in clear weather,) is the smit!,.
ern end of an island lying on the eastern end of the beach of Maranbaya. This island ;s
rocky ; there are trees only in some places, and no where is green grass to be seen. In
fine weather it may be discovered from 15 leagues distant. Viewed frotn K. and N., twu
dift'erent hills are to be perceived on Cape I'rio, the northern one of whicli is the lan^t-t
and highest, and on the southern one a kind of rock seems to project and liaug over,
Viewed from the N. N. E. and S. S.E. these two hills appear to be but one with tops,
and at a small distance from the cape, in an E. S. E. direction, lies a small island of a
conical shape. All this shore is so bold that .10 and even 40 fathoms are to be met m
every direction, even at one mile distance, bottom almost every where muii.
Between the island of Frio and the main land there \s a good channel for small ves-
sels, and a good anchorage for others of any size. The channel runs N. E. and S. \V.
It is not fretpiently used, on account of its narrowness at the southern part, but the depth
of water is every where more than sufficient. The northern passage \r, very spacious niiii
safe against any wind except N. E.; but by anchoring more north toward the Island doj
Porcos, you may consider yourself perfectly safe, the atu'horage being (irrii, and oIkmi
resorted to by coasting traders who wait there for favorable winds, and for a chance la
put to sea through the southern or northern passage. In time of war this place mr.yU
useful to get information. Var. 2" ;5' E. 1H1<J.
The northern part of the coast of Cape Frio, together with the islands, runs N. 35° E,
up to Anchora Islands, and forms with this last a deep bay, in the inside of which staiij
the numerous islands of Papagaros ; several of them afford very safe ancliorage in cass
of contrary wind.
The island of Ancoras stands at 4 miles E. | S. from Cape f?usios; the eastern one
has the appearance of a quaker's hat. I do not doubt, as reported by native mariners,
the practicability for alarce ship to pass between them and the main land.
North of Cape Busios lies the small island of Branca, from whence another beach ex-
tends to the Morro San .loao or San Joam, and at no great distance the island of Feno.
The land now runs easterly up to Cape St. Thomas. This gulf, formed by the coast
between the Capes Busios and St. Thomas, is very near 30 leagues in extent, and in the
middle of it, at 3 leagues distance from the shore, lies the island of Santa Anna.
Tlie Morro San .Toam is easy to be distinguished, being entirely separated from the
chain of mountains lying in its rear, and its top having a warlike appearance.
At twenty miles N. \ W. of Morro San Joam, another hill is to be perceived, whicli
offers this particular, that its northern side is quite perpendicularly cut, and its top eml>
in a sharp point. It is known by the name of Father de Macaye, or Macahe.
The islands of St. Ann are three in nund)er. Viewed from S. .S. \V. and N. N. F,.,
they appear as one only. The southern one is the highest. '^IMie atichorage in tlif
channel is one of the safest and most convenient for any kind of rcjiairs, and to refit ves-
sels of any description. Good water and timber arc to be found, and at the distance of
ibur to five miles from the shore, there is, in every direction, from 19 to 30 fathoms of
water, and a good mud bottom.
From the parallel of the island of St. Ann up to Benevenfe, which stands in latitud?
20° 53' 50" S., a (hit land projects considerably into the sea. That low land is i<noivii
by the name of Cranes. Some navigators bound to Rio .Janeiro, state that they Iwve
been deceived by the similar appearance between the coast north of C^e Frio and the
coast forming the bay of Rio .Janeiro. Such an error appears very extraordinary, lor
the entrance of Rio Janeiro is on the angular jioint of two chains of mountains, the
eastern side running E. | N., and the western side running \V. S. W.; whereas the
land north of Cape Frio runs N. and S., which is quite an opposite direction. On the
whole, a sinsle observation will relieve the doubts in that respect.
CAPE THOMAS — From the island of St. Ann to Benevente End, the land extendj
more and more to the sea ; and at Cape Thomas the mountains appear to be thirteen
leagues from the sea shore. This part of the Brazilian coast is very low ; a few trees
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
551
xp sliovp a ritlc;e uf
LIS by tlif coiisiiiig
Mt G miles tlistum,
[) leagues disiaiHc,
acli, a (lat of w;itn
varying iVoiii 7lj tn
y toward the land,
cks and niiid. In
II iJO to 'J5 latlium,
rlit, which is visible
ilher,) is the soiitli-
lya. This island is
ass to be seen. In
Voin K. and N., t\\u
which is the lar;;t-t
ject and hang over.
! but one with tops,
a small island (if ;i
ns arc to be met m
'e muii.
laniiel for small v(\.
ns N. E. and S.W.
II part, but thecleptli
i.j very spacious ami
)\vard the Island dus
liiiio; firm, and ol'it'ii
and for a chanc'' 1 1
ar this pUn;e niiiyU
atids, runs N. 35" E,
side of which stuiiJ
fe anchorage in cass
,ios ; the eastern one
bv native mariners,
. land.
i;e another beach ex-
the island of Fenu.
|formed by the coasi
in extent, and in the
Santa Anna,
separated from tk
[pearance.
be perceived, which
cut, and its top euJs
r Macalie.
k W. and N.N. K.,
lie aiiehoraire in the
airs, and to retit ve*-
lid at the distance of
19 to 30 fathoms of
lich stands in latitude
It low land is Unnwn
(state that they have
]f C^e Frio and tlie
ry extraordinary, In'
is of mountains, tlie
Is. W.; whereas the
direction. On the
Ind, the land extends
Ippear to be thirteen
lery low -, a few trees
and small sand-hills soom as buried in the sea water. Tliis beach pxtend.s far in the sea,
and liirnis what is called the banks of Cape Tliomas. The chart shows how far the
.shallow water extends. y\t the distance of five miles wi- found from 10 to i!l fathoms,
nicreasiii}: reuularly towards the sea. JJy keeping lilieen miles Irom the shore there is
iiDt the hast danger.
Though some coasting traders state that places on the banks are to be met with, hav-
ing - or o fathoms of water only, yet tlie pilot we had on board thinks differently, and
niithiiig has been perceived by us to indicate such a shallowness.
Tilt- nature of the bottom near Cape Thomas is not of a muddy nature, but white sand
and broken shells. It should here be observed, that this white sand, which extends so
far north, ajipears to begin only there, and is never met with fartlier soulli.
At a short distance from Henevente you meet, in succession, the Barra Guarapaya,
(Hald Island,) La Rosa, and the small islands of (iuarapari.
Tiic Iviver tJuarapari empties into the sea between two hills covered with trees. On
the top of the southern hill there is a church with a steeple, many houses, and cocoa
trees. The other hill is called I'erro de Cao. To proceed up the river, it is neces-
.sary to keep (iuarapari Hill N. VV.
Tiic sui.ounding coast is tolerably high, and every wliere covered witli small trees,
and in several places a yellow steep beach not perceived to the southward of Benevente.
The mountains in the interior deserve particular notice, being of a conical shape, and
appearing to incline on one side, which is not to be observed tlic south or north.
ESlMlilTO SANTO.— The Island Calvada lies 4 miles distant from the shore.
There is no danger passing in the channel, being from TJ to 20 fathoms water. Outside
this island, and oil' the Island Rosa, the depth varies from 12 to 20 fathoms up to Es-
pirito Santo Bay. Keeping at the distance of 2 to 7 miles from the shore, at nearly two
thirds the distance from (iuarapari Santo, you meet the rocky island Jien, and a'little
fariher distant the Pacotes rocks, which indicate the entrance of the bay of Espirito
Santo. The particulars wliich distinguish Espirito Santo Bay, are Monte Moreno and
Mertiie Alvara. Monte Moreno is a mountain on the southern end of the bay, its
northern base forming tlie southern entrance of the river of Espirito, is of a conical
shape, covered in part with wood ; no green grass to be seen on its eastern side, and
may be discovered 10 leagues distant. Vessels going up the river must range along it at
no ^reat distance. The two Pacotes rocks stand 2| miles, and are of unequal size.
The inside channel is used only by small vessels.
Nearly one mile distant from Monte Moreno, S. G0° W., stands the Morrode Nozza,
(Semhora de Poria,) a rocky hill with little wood. The church, which is built on its
top, can be discovered 5 leagues distant. What distinguishes the hill called the Mastre
Alvaro, is its great height on a low ground, appearing as entirely separated from the
other mountains.
The greatest part of the bay of Espirito Santo is occupied by two islands, in a direc-
tion N. N. W. of Monte Moreno. Though the space between this island and the
mountain appears to be wholly obstructed by banks, and the two rocks, the Balea (the
Whale) and the Casello, (the Horse,) yet a vessel not drawing over l6 feet water may
easily go through there without danger, as you will not have less than 18 feet water.
The anchorage we occupied in the bay of Espirito Santo \vas not the best one, because
we iiad no knowledge of a submarine rock not more than two cables' distance from us,
where, from time to time, the sea was breaking. The safest place to anchor is the oue
pointed on the chart, with an anchor.
Espirito Santo is of some importance to navigators. At one league's distance from
the city of Victoria, there is good water. Wood and cattle can be got in plenty, and
cheap. The climate appears unhealthy, being extremely damp. A rock called the
Pao de Ilanuar, (Sugar-loaf,) about 2000 yards from the city, is of some service to ma-
[riners, as you steer in its direction after weathering Monte Moreno, if you intend to get
j into the river. The tides are not more than 4 feet, and are regular but in the inside of
the bay.
The coast north of Espirito Santo is low and covered with trees; and the shore,
I which runs N. ."iQ" E. from the Tubaron (the Shark) up to the bar of Rio Doce nearly
16 leagues distant, is of a yellow red color.
From llio Doce (Soft River) the coast runs north and south up to the bar of San Ma-
theo, a distance of 20 leagues. The country in the interior does not appear so low as
' the sea shore, but from Rio Doce to Mount Pascoal the country is very flat. There is
iiconsetpiently no more dilliculty in recognizing Espirito Santo Bay when coming from
the south or from the north, as in the first instance Mount Mastre Alvaro comes next to
^the flat land, and in the second instance it ends a land tolerably high.
The shore from Tubarao end up to San Matheo, may be approached every where at
l^the distance of 2 or 3 miles. From 9 to 10 fathoms water are to be found at such adis-
I i tance, bottom sandy, sometimes muddy, and with broken shells.
ui
'mat
■*«6UMte4rf>|
552
BLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
It is rcporttd Rio Doce runs fnrin the interior, but its mouth dors not admit of large
vcsspIs. It is to he observed here, tliat the muncious iHhindti pointed out in «ome
chiirts, ns existing at its muuih, is not correct.
The b»rof Rio Seca hcs ten lentines north of Rio Doce. Rio Seen is a stream only
in the rainy season. Two miles east of ivio Seca we found no variation in the coin'.
pass, July, IHl').
The bar of .San Matheo is 10 leajjiies di'<tant from Rio Sera. Being far at sea, thisbir
may be distino;uishe(l by ilie breakers of the sea, wiiich are greater tlian on tlie surround-
ing places. Tiie shallowness of the water, the impossibility for a ship to <ross over the
bar, and above all, the little benefit to be derived from thi.< place, are more than sullicient
reasons to keep at a distance from it.
ABROLHU.S. — At a distance of 4 to .'j leagues from San Matheo, in a nortliern dirpr
tion, and at 3 to 4 leagues from the land, the soundings begin to indicate the shallow wa.
terofthe Abrolhos. This shallow place may be considered to extend nortli and somh
from 18 to 20 leagues, and east and west not less than "JO leagues ; and though the w|ii,|c
extent is not to be considered equally dangerous, yet a vessel not particularly bound to tliii
place, will do well to keep away from it.
The Abrolhos Islands, or Sante Barbara Islands, are four in number, not inchulinctwn
or three flat rocks. The two northern islands are the highest. 'J'he western mien
nearly 1.30 feet al)ove the sea ; the other llf}. They may be perceived from the tup of
a frigate in fine weather, from 20 leagues distance.
Nothing is to be found on this island except some reeds and cactus. Numerous tribfj
of birds inhabit them. A few turtles are to i)e met with. Fishes are in plenty, and tlip
fishermen of Porto Securo repair there to fish, and dry what they call garoiijas. Thii
is consequently the only thing a vessel can expect thither.
We have already stated that the whole extent assigned to the shallow water is nc
every where dangerous. In the same extent, by our observations and soundings, itiiji-
pears that from the E. S. E. up to S. by N., and W., large ships may approach from:
to 8 miles, in fine weather. Tlie only part we had no chance of sounding, and whicr.
remains consequently doubtful, is that part coujprised between the S. and S- S. E.
West of this island there is a cliannel, of nearly '.I leagues wide, wliere the soiindinji
show from 10 to 15 fathoms, except in a few places where it shows only 8 fathoms. Tli'
western side of this channel is formed by more shallow water, called the Paredas, (nr
Walls,) which is very dangerous. According to the report of the native mariners, th'
tides are irregular on the Abrolhos ; the current runs according to the wind, and dnp,
not run over j\ of a mile an hour. The sounding shows no mud over the whole pxten;
we ascribed to the shallow water of Abrolhos, and if any is to be perceived, it is a cer-
tain sign you are no longer there. The nature of the bottom in the Abrolhos is white
sandy stone, mixed with broken madrepore* in a powdered state. Sometimes thatsanrtv i
gravel is very firm and combined with sand and rock, particularly in the N. E. direction.
In the direction of S. S. W. or N. E. by W , the bottom is very firm and like tough mor-
tar, in which the anchors have a good hold, though they enter very little into it. AV?
have no correct information respecting the Paredes, which are stated in the chart, ac-
cording to the saying of the native mariners, beginning at the bar of Portalegra, and end
ingat Alcobaca.
Extract of a letter from Capt. Fitzroy, of H. M. Sloop Beagle, to Capt. Bemifort, R. .V |
071 the subject of the Abrolhos Banks,\ dated " Rio de Janeiro, April 10, 183li.
"On the 18th March we sailed from Bahia, and worked our way slowly towards tk
eastern limit of the Abrolhos Banks. The winds, being light and easterly, favored ocrl
fioundings frequently, and taking good observations.
" Having reached the parallel of the islands, to the eastward of the easternmost soiind-j
ings laid down in the charts, and finding no ground with 300 fathoms of line, 1 began tol
Bteer westward, sounding continually, and keeping a sharp look out at the mast-lieadf
At 2 P. M., on the 26th, we had no bottom with 230 fathoms, and at 4 P. M. we founii|
only 30 fathoms, without the slightest change either in the color of the water oriniiil
temperature, or any indication of so sudden a change in its depth.
" I directly hauled to the wind, and worked back again to the eastward, to have ano-l
ther opportunity of confirming the place of the edge of the bank. We lost soundings ai
suddenly as we found them ; and in standing to the westward a second time, with a gra[^|
nel towing astern by 200 fathoms of line, we hooked the rocky bottom, and straightenfil
the grapnel: but my obj»ict in ascertaining the exact beginning of the bank was gained, f
* Every kind of stone supposed to be formed by insects, is called by the French, madrepore-
t From the Journal of the Geographical Society.
IMIIOS. I ilc
tilis inouiitain stu
f'"' f'Jtst, Mount
I II <;:miiot Ijo mist;
'I'lic shore fVoi
liid its goneral ii|
■'•ic;!!: itdiir.M-s
hoards Porto S,
lumerous among
Pss ill SHccessiiH
T^o, and the clii
lecuro: the w;il|
1 wme distance .
a 'lie bar there a
F'ks, extending
r vessels of sola
I'rom Porto Sc.
I-M° E. very wo
l"ce. A new cit
P but two fathoi
IJLUNT S AMEKICAIV COAST PILOT.
553
ot arlniit of Inrje
itt'tl out in Home
a is a stroani only
(titiii in ihc coin-
far at sfia,thiRbr
I oil tlu' suiround-
) to cross overihc
Dte than sunic.fnt
I a norlliorn dirfp-
\r. tlie shallow wa-
1(1 north and s'liuli
I though the wlmlf
lUu-ly bound to iliis
-, not inclndinatwn
The western one i<
jeA from the tup of
Numerous tribe?
e in plenty, and tlif
all garoujas. This
shallow water is w.
11(1 soundings, itii|i-
lay approach froml
ounding, and wliicli
JS.andS. S. E.
where the sonndin;<
nly B fathoms. The
ed" the Paredas, (or
native mariners, tk?
the wind, and iloes
iver the whole pxieni
jerceived, it is a cer-
[he Abrolhos is wliite |
lometimes thatsandv
the N. E. direction.
[i and like tough ninr-
ivy little into it. W'.
ited in the chart, a^-
Portalegra,aiHlciid.
rjapt. Bemifort, R. y
\, April 10, im.
ay slowly towards li'
easterly, favored ok |
lie easternmost soud-
Inis of line, 1 began lol
lout at the mast-heai
1 at 4 P. M. we found
of the water or in iw|
Eastward, to have ano-
We lost soundings"
:ondtime,withagraP'|
»om, and straightene
the bank was gained.
" l'"roin that spot we had soundings hi less llian 10 fatliuiiis, until we anchored near
ihc AI)ndlios Islands.
•' I pa-scil to the soiiiliwani and eastward of llieni, because that side had not been ex-
inmii'il ; lint time would not allow of my doiiii,' what I wislnnl while so favorable an op-
|Mirliriity ollered.
•• At least a fortniglit would be necessary to complete the survey of IJaron Ivoussin,
wliicli appears, so far as we have examined, to be extrciMcly correct. The soundinus ;uo
.11 irii'milar, that little dcpcndeiK e can be placed on the lead. It is only by a multitiidi!
iil'siiiiiidings, by watciiin^ the s('a when there is much swell, and Iraversiiij; every pari,
Willi a siiarp look out at ilie mast-ln-ad. that ilic m'i;,'liborhood of the Abrolhos, particu-
laiiv to till' soiitli-i'ast, ran be llioroiii;lily I'saiiiiiicil.
"More than once we had four or live fathoms under one 8i'<> of the vessel, ami from
filtcrii to twenty under the other side. The saiil.s dc suud:, as the French express it,
ity
The tide, or rather (nirreiit, which we experienced, set continually to the soiitliward
r.irtlii' three days we were near these inlands, varying from half a mile to a mile and a
hilfaii hour.
" I sit|)post!d that the bottom was chielly composed of coral rock, but was surprised to
TmiiI nil coral exceptiiii; small i'i'#;;mcnts niowiii;; on the solid rock, w liieh is cliii lly i^neiss
,111(1 siiiiNtoiK!. As the charts say *• cmuil met,'' 1 have seiil a few of the soiiiidiii!;s for
viiiir iiispeelioii ; and you will see by them that what has here beeii called coral, is the
.. ,.r .. c,.i;,l .',./.l/ <°... ..I I,.' I'l,.. , I.. ......:» ,.r ,1. .....•,,.■ ...:..,,.i ..:.i ii'...„
li coralline
1 French, madrepore.
II Ill.^|/ci Liifii ^ tiirii T»JH I'lii .-tx y. •/» iii\ lit iiiiii. *fL|iii. iih.t ||» ii >n,< ii i 'lin 'I » '»
I'latiiig of a solid rock, formed by the deposit of the sea-water, mixed with
subsraiices, and what a sailor generally calls ' barnacles.'
"My meridian distance of tlw. Abrolhos ItoeUs I'rom Uahia, llieir latitude, and their
!^i/,!.'. ai,'rec precisely with those ^iveii in tiie l-'reiich siir\ey; but between llaliia and Kio
ill' .laiieiro, and coiiseipiently befween (he Alirollms and Kin de .laiieiro, tiierc exists a
ililleri'iice of from four to live mib's between us, (his beiiifi the only point on which I
liavi' found any su(;h liili'ereiice, either on this or on the I'ea^lc's former voyairc.
"Ilaviiin made both jiassa^es, I venture t.» obsc^rve, that .!j;oiiisr within tlie Abrolhos
certainly shortens that ix'lweeii Jlio and Bahia very iiiueh: but yet I should not reconi-
! iiiPinl it to any vessel unless she has reason lo make iiiiiisiial liasti;. 'J'lie souiidiinis are
svi'iy irregular, varying suddenly from :,'!' to (> faihoii^j; and there are both reefs and
I currents."
Tlie little city of i'rado lies on the iimuth of tlio river liicurucu, a very deep cut
iiiiiniigst the trees, which are iiiimeroiis mi tlie shore, al the place Wiicre tlie river dis-
ichiiigos into the sea. There is no danger near the mmith; even at ihr(>(! miles there are
UiDiii 111 to 14 fathoms of water. This depth remains the same ;is far as the village of
M'uruinbiana, situated K. S. E. (jf Mount J'axal. Mount Pascal is to lie perceived oven
■Miom the Abrolhos.
E. by S "iH miles from Moiuit Pascal, in a direction north and south, and at 1'2 miles
ilistiiiit from the coast, the water is very shallow, intermixed with rocks. That danger-
ous place is called the Itacolomis, and runs E. S. E. and S. by \V. There is not the
If'ist daii::er by keeping away ITmiles from the shore, and when north of Mount Pascal
tlie land may be neareil to ."'> miles, the depth iieing from Ii to "34 fathoms.
Mount Pascal, as we stated before, is the highest of the mountains perceived from tlic
Alirollios. The chain it belongs to runs ;iearly S. E. and N. \V. 'V\w southern part of
this mouiitaiu seems as if a largo sijuare tower .ad been built on its top. Viewed from
till' cast. Mount Pascal appears of a conical shape, and being the highest of the whole,
ii cannot be mistaken.
The shore from Villa Prado up to Mount Pascal runs N. 10^ E. Tt is low, woody,
Mill its general appearance is very much like the shore between Itacolomis and Mount
riscid: it dilfers only in its yellow red colors. This red color increases more and more
Vwarils Porto Seeuro, and the shore mon high, and steeji, and the cow-tree is more
jumerous amongst the trees which cover the land. If going along the coast, you will
■iss in succession the bars of (Iraiiiminuaii. ol' .lonsima, of Frade. the small bay of Tran-
pso, and the church of Mossa. In Senhorada .ludea, distant only two miles from Porto
eciiro: the walls of that church being perfectly white, if is perceived amongst the trees
I some distance: there is a small river which empties in the harbor of Porto Sccuro;
ithe bar there are 14 feet at high wate,- anil only 1 1 inside : moreover, there are many
inks, extending very far; taking the whole together, Porto Seeuro is not a good place
|r vessels of small si:^e, and of no use for large ones.
From Porto Seeuro to Rio (Jrande, there are twelve leagues distance; the coast runs
■ 14° E. very woody ; sandy banks and shallow water, are to be found at tlig>c miles dis-
liice. A new city called Ikdmonte, stands on the southern bank of Rio GTaiulc: there
IP but two fathoms of water on the bar. ,
7(1 • • • ■
t;
554
BLUNT 8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
From Bclmonto to Fort St. flcor^cs dos IlliPdH, thrro arn twenty IvaKUcs clistnncr,
•tenp wliorc and i<(|iiiilly woody ; depth of wiilcr iVorii ni-vimi to twenty t'litlioinH : iiml m ;,
i>iilo>4 diHtaiiee, muddy hottoni iind broken niadreiiore. At half ilie (hNtaiii e Irtttn liil
nionto to Kort St. (leoi^eM, you meet the Seras de ilaiaea, a ^loiip ot iniiuntainH on ulndi
torminates tlic (lat country hejiinninu; after INIount I'aseal; lln; Hof! i>rn niouniaui hian
the naititi of Commandatiilia, from wlii<li the Nmall river ih-rives its name, l-'roni iIhih,
up the Itay of All .Saints the coast oliers the (inesl pr(is|)ect, lieitif^ well cultivated mil,,
Tallcy, and tiic small hills covered with wood.
From Fort .St. Cicorj^e, u|) to the two (-'astellianoH Ends, I') IcagiiPH dislanre, ih,-
coa.st JH perfectly secure: the largest sliips may approacli it within Iwu miles, wiilii,iii
the least danger.
The Dos (jastolhanos Ends, heion^ to a hiiih land joining to I'onta do Muta, at die
•xtremity of which stands the small island of (jiiipe. The Alula point and the ishimlut
Quipt! form a kind of liasin, into which empties ilie small river Acarahi, at a slmri (||<.
tance from tlie small town of Camamu. Tlic breakers which obstruct the bay, do ihii
parmit vessels to i^o into it.
Bcginninf; at this place the coast seems divided into two, and appears like two islamk
This appearance is produced by the low land exiitinjj; between the two hilly |)art8, and re-
mains the same, till you arrive at cape or iMorro .San I'anlo.
Morro San I'aulo, from the east end of the bar of I'ha's Kiver, may be very casilj ,|i..
tinj^uished, though not very hii^h, bein:; higher than the highland, which stands (inii»
rear, in llr.; northern direction; there is on its top, two sc^parated yroups of cow-inn
TPry apparent. Morro San I'aulo oilers this particular, that when near it, the (jrwn
▼erdant color of its top seems spoiled on the norlhern sidt; with larf^e while st: ins: in imc
weather tliesc while; stains may be s(!t!n from lilty-lnur miles distance. Two milt!, lasi
of Morro .San I'aulo there arc 17 fathoms, with s;oo(l muddy bottom. North of .San I'liulu
the coast is low, sandy, and a reef of rocks runs abtn;; within a short distance of it. Tim
coast ap|)ears at first connected witli the island of Tamarica; bui the land on thisisl.iiiJ
is hif;her: the space between tlie western side of itaporica Island, and the mam iiiriii,
forms what is called the false entrance of Uahia. This channel is very crooked, uarrn».
and too difficult to admit vessels to pass.
A vessel may steer in a straight direction from Morro San Paulo to Cape St. Antonio;
but if tlie wind blows too strong towards the land, it is belter to keep a little more to ibe
N. W. until the eastern point of Tamarica island stands north t)f you.
Description of the Mountains and other objects ivhich show your approach to Rio Jam;,
At the eastern end of the beach of Maranbaya stands the large point of Guainiiba.
where begin tlie high mountains which surround the Hay of Uio .laneiro. From lliu
point, in clear weather, the Island lledonda (Koiiiid Island) can be seen, although eijlii
leagues distant. That island stands at the entrance' of the Hay of Kio de .laneiro, aiiJ
is easily distinguished by its rouixl sliajx-, and by the green and white color of its shore*.
From the same point the mountain called the (iabia, or Main-top, which by its pcciilur
shape cannot be confounded witli any other, and is, by this reason, the surest iiiiirkui
Rio de .raneiro. When arrived near Ivound Island, there is not the least difficuliv in
reaching Rio .laneiro. It is unnecessary to undertake the course towards tiiat |)la(f,
unless you 'ire sure to reach it before night time, ami lor that to wait for the sea bree/e,
which generally begins at 12 or 1 o'clock.
Some say that it is better to make land near Cape Frio, when bound for Rio Janiim:
though it will do well for vessels coming from the north or east, yet in every other iii-
■tance, it will be wasting time.
The Grand Island, the Morro Maranbaya, and particularly the Main-top JMountaic,
are the surest guides for nearing Rio Janeiro, as they may be seen at a great di>taiice,
and no fear in nearing the land.
There is something peculiar which distinguishes the appearance of the Bay of Rio
Janeiro from every other place. When coming from the E.S.E. uj) to the S.W. the lops
of the mountains bear a perfect resemblance to a man lying on his back, in a direction
W. S. W. and E. N. E., the Mount Main-top seeming to form the head, and Muuut
Sugar-loaf the extremities of the feet.
The Main-top Mount is tiat on its top, and seems not so large at its base as at its top,
from whence it derives its name. Eight mdes distant from the mountain lies the I'aoola-
sucar (Sugar-loaf) Mount, a large rock, which, although generally indicated as the
best mark to ascertain the bay of Rio Janeiro, is not so, according to my observations,
being not so high, so distinct, or so near the shore, as the Main-top Mount. It oilers
this particular, that its shape is very conical, and it appears above all the other moun-
tains of a like shape around it, and it seems to incline a little towards the N. W.
It i« v«ry prudent to keep at somG distance from the shore, when navigating between
■MaMm.
BLUNT*8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
655
y IcaKUcs (li.Mancr,
tatlidiiiH : ami iit :,
(liMtatH'i- iVuin Itil-
luiiintiiiiis oil whicli
1-III iiit)utit;uii lii'4r«
lint'. Kroiii tlh'iiii'
ell CUllivUlL-(l 111 till
a^iirH ilistaiire, th.-
twu iiiilt'ti, witlidiii
ita ill- Miita, at tln'
lint uMil tlic islaiiilni
rahi, at a Hlmrt (li«.
nut tlu- Itay, do imi
pars lik<' two ishiiiik
o hilly parts, and re-
ay he very easily i||..
which staiiils units
[r roups Ol COW-lpi'l
a near it, the |;retn
white sti.ins: inline
cc. 'J'wo inilt's liht
North of San I'.iulo
ilislance of it. 'I'lm
le laiiil oil thinislanil
, and the main liind.
ery crooked, narrnw.
to Cape St. Antonin;
n) a little moietutlie
ou.
roacli to liio Janm.
loint of (Juantiba.
aiieiro. FrotinliH
en, althoiii.'h fiilii
\io dc .latieiri), aiil
e color of its slum*.
,liich by its iieciilur I
the surest niarkui ]
le least difficulty in
towards that |ii.iif,
for the sea bree/.f.
iiid for Rio Janeiro;
et in every other in-
klain-top Mountain,
at a great distance,
of the Bay of Rio
to the S.W. the tops
back, in a direction
e head, and Mouui
ts base as at its top.
tain lies the Paool'a-
lly indicated as ilie
Ito my observations.
p Mount. It nlTcrs
\\\ the other moun-
the N. W.
Inavigating between
Rio Janeiro ontl Capo Krio, because tlio «oa-bree/.n blown generally towards tho shoro,
Mui ill Id"' fii;>"ner the wave?* m mratr a ciirrenf, havini; the same tendency, particularly
wlifii It blows from >S. W., and then in case of a siiddeii storm, lliere will be Homo dun-
Iter ill the anclioraj^e, not iiiiiiK there very Male.
We must repeat that it is ver;' prudent never to apjiroach too near the iHlaniiH wliich
Maud at the entrance of the bay of Kio .Janeiro, ex« ept in case you are certain to reach
the harbor diiriiii; day time; lor if en;;ai,'ed amongst them you may be dan(;erously
situated, in case of as(|iiall ofwind, which is often the cumg ; then if nut uuubleii torcucli
chu liarbor in daylight, it is better to put to sea a^aiti.
Dinrtions/ur tfoirifi in and out of the ILtrhor oj Ii!o Janeiro,
To enter the harbor of Rio .Janeiro it is preferred generally to jiass between the Island
Kasa' (Itare Island) and tin Island of I'ara, (l''atlier and Mother,) the first one nearly 7
milts fr(tin the Sunar-loaf, the two last '>}, miles M. 11 ' K. of Rare Island. They have
hulil shores, antl may be approached very near; and even if necessary a vessel can pass
lit'twcen them and the shore. The depth of water between thcsu islands is from l;] to
•j:i fallioins. Standing one mile abreast of Rare Island, you must perceive tlm western
fiid of the most western island (I'aya) N. 47'^ K. from this point. Direct yoiircoiirso
(luring 7,', miles N. .V K., until you arrive at i^OO yards west ol the fortress of Santa Cruz,
situated at the eastern extremity of the entrance. f During that course yoii will havo
jiassed on your larboard hand several small rocks and small islands, which lie between
the Kouiid Island and thi' land on the iMain-top IMoiint side, and you will pass at one
half mile distance from the small island Toiicinlio, (liam Island,) which is not far dis-
tant from the .Sugar-loaf Mount. There is not thi^ least danger. Y'ou have only to
keep at a |)roper distanci! from the rocks which are to be seen. The least depth of wa-
ter is 7 fathoms at the entrance ; but when in the liarbor it increases very fast, and at a
ffw yards from the .Santa Cruz Rattery there are over lU and Hi fathoms.
Tiie way \v<^ prescribe! to go into the harbor |)ossesses many advantages. First, it
enables you to approach the .^anta Cruz fortress sulficiently near to answer the ques-
tions put to you by tin; g\iard ; second, to keep the sirip at a reasonabh^ distance from
thi' (lat island lying in the middle of the entrance, on which is built the Kort Lage ; and
thirdly, to correct the etfect of tiie current, which sets towards the N. W. with tlic tide.
The passage between Fori aula Cruz and Fort Lage is the only one used in pass-
inj;, and the one formed by S.ui ,loao I'oint is never used ; not on account ol" deficiency
ul water, but because it is narrower, more crooked, and the bottom being rocky, is not
sale, in case of necessity, to anchor. They smy the passage tlirough it is jirohibited.
When at fiOO yards distance west from Fort Santa Cruz, the course to reach tlie best
anchorage is N. 35^ W. until you arrive E. N. E. of Fort Villegagnon, which you may
pass at only bOO yards distance. From that place you will steer toward tho Island dos
Katos, (Rat Island,) and now, being in sight of the city, you may choose your anchor-
age in from 10 to 20 fathoms.
If you draw a line from the flag of Fort Villegagnon to the Cobras (Snake) Island,
that line will separate the anchorage for vessels of war from that of the merchant vessels.
The best for vessels of war is towards the E. N. E. of the palace, and south of a line
drawn from Rat Island to the main church in the city, and the best for merchant vessels
is near the city. The largest reach that place by passing north of Snake Island, and they
are separated from the vessels of war by a bank, or shallow water, where boats only can
pass, and over which the sea is constantly breaking at low water.
The sea and land-breezes are regular, and each last one half of the day. The land-
breeze begins in the evening, continues during the night, and stops at nine oi ten in the
morning; a calm of one hour generally succeeds it, and at about eleven the sea-breeze
commences.
Vessels going to sea will follow the course opposite to that pursued when going in.
It is best to take your departure in the morning, in order to take advantage of the land-
breeze, which, lasting 3 or 4 hours during daylight, enables you to clear all the small
islands, and reach the open sea. Vessels used sometimes to go at some distance from
the city the day ])revious to their departure, in order to have a better chance of getting
to sea the day after, with the laud-breeze. In case the breeze should subside, it would
be better to cast anchor.
Description of the Coast comprised bcficeen the Island of St. Catharina and the Bay of
Rio Janeiro.
VOL AGE BANK, on the coast of Brazil, lat. 26° 44' S.,long. 48° 15' W. Sound-
ings 12J to 14 fathoms.
• On Rasa Island there is a lighthouse with a revolving light.
i A fixed light is exhibited on the fortreis of Santa Cruz.
556
Blum's amkkican coast pilot.
His iMajcsty's .slii|) Volnt'c. on Ik*!* w:iy f(» St. Ciilhaiinos, on llio coast of IJim/.iI, n,
SeptciiihiT, If^;!',', siiiick soumlinus in II laliiotiis, iniicl, on a liank w liicli is not laidddBi,
oil tiiL' (halts in tlio aliov(^ laliliidt; and loniiitndc. (alcnlatcd lioni llic noon oliscrvaiimi.
Kioui thiMicf, wiiilc liie .ship was sailing two niilrs west hy siniili, liotioiii was loiunl wnl;
11 to 1-2,' latlioins ; alter which, on stcM-rini; \V. and \V. S. W.. tlic water dci-pcnrd :
dvniy t(
id -J') lailionis : and tlicsc depths were proscived until iiie island oT A
lii
redo, al the; nortii (mkIoI'Si. ("atliaiines Island, was passed.
'I'll
d)ov<! position ol tl
.SKll
red to he in lat. •J7' 2G' IJU'
<li(ial depends on tliat oC K
oit
an
.lose, whicii was
nid lon;j;. 4^-= ;{y' W. The variation was t
oui,i|
he 7 ' easterly. Ilonssin ])asse(| insiile ol'this slntal. and does not lav it down.
FRO.M Jl'lO .T.VNHIRU TO TilK KIVHK in.ATK.— ( )n (pi'iitinfr l!io .lan.iKi
the sh(n-e hends \V. hy S. towards to. ureal I'oint id' (inaratiha, where the ran^i' i,
nionnlains terminates which surrounds the \];\\ ol' l>io .Janeiro, r'roni tiiis ] oint \,ii
nniy ih Inie \veatljer clear
Iv per(
ceive IvcdoiKla, ol
li
(lunil
Island, distant eiylit
iea';iic.,
w
hicli island is distinguished hy its t'orui, ami the deej) streaks of white and daik ur
wiiicdi sl( , e do
wn on every snic;
\
on wil
■;o div( ern l^a d'ahia at the distanc
I'K;
C (i|.
icai^ucs, lieariui; K. N. K., whicli is a reuiarkaldy I'ornied nionnlain.as alreaiiy descriljii!
ami ( aiinot well he cont'ou'ideil with any other. It iliereliue is tin- most certain imiii
lor Kit) .laneini. particularly when comin<: troni the soutlMvanl.
' From the J'oint of (inaratiha, a W. S. W. course will lead aloni: the low land of Mi-
ranihaya, the western point of whii h terminates in a littli' hill, called the JMorro de .Ma-
raiidiaya, at the entrance to the Uay of lllia(Jrande. The eastern point (d'the Traymlt
M.
ranihaya, or
.M;
iva Island, is sejiaraled I'roiu the lam! of (uiaratil
a l)V a sii
chann(d, which hoats only can enter. This island ocenpies a space of H leajiues K,
\V. It is very low, ami you must not approach it witliont the prentest cant
;ii,i!
ion, fsiif.
cially ^ hen tlic weather is not clear. This circumspection is the more necessjiivdi
fa rock, surrounded with shallow siromid, \\hi( h jirojects ."> miles to tliesdinli.
accouiv o
ward froin the coast, ahoui midway. J'y Ueepin^ ahont -1 mdes from the coast attli.
pa ', you will have from 'J-J to .')(l fa'.homs water, with a iiottoni (d'sand and uravel.
J5AY OF JLIIA (iHANDM.— The great 15ay- of Uha (irande, lornied betwrni lb
rnntinent and tin" island of ihis name, has two entrances. 'J'ln- western one is liniimlfY
uy the. Point of .loatiiiira and the Inland of (iraiide; the eastern one hy the same ishiinl,
and til
e pr(Miiontory or low
mil
M
iraiiiDava.
Eitl
ler o
f th
ese entrances cniimid;
you into the hay, which is calculated to receive the lariiest vesscds.
^ri
le pilots sav,
" whole fleets may enter there, and lind .shelter from every wind. Tlic soun(lini.'sv
from .')() to 7 fathoms in the greatest part of the hay, and you may readily procure «
and wa.ter from many parts of the coast."
Al .'k' distance of 'J miles from the south part of Una (Irande is the little islaiidoM
fieoi.}ii 'ireij, whiidi has a liarren appearance, hut will liirnish you with hoth wikhI iiiiM
water. Tlie largest vessels may find anchorage on its northern side, and refresliiiicm*
may he procured at the little village of d'Angia dos IJeos. which is tliere situated.
[t does r i aj pear tlial I'aroii Koiissm penetrated into the interior ef' the IJayofill
Grande; an,! the iiiforiii; ion Kuropians at |)rcsent possess of this hay is very ini])rrtii:
This hay is hounded on the N. M., ami also on the S. W., hy the main land, ciiiii|)ri'
Jiending a length of full (>() miles, and is studded with numerous islands and placps n
sncliorage, liaving many villages on the northern shore. The Eastern or iMaraiiiliny
(Channel, leading into this hay, is ft miles wide, and may he known hy the siiiirji' 1""
mountain ahont 700 feet high, which stands on tlie low point of jMaramhaya. The >aiiil' I
(lat, or Inland of Maramhaya, is ahont -JO ("eel above the Icvi I of the sea. In most pari-.
especially near the middle of the island, it is rjuite barren ; in otliers it is covered witli
various crce|)iiig plants, whiidi kc(>p tli(> soil together. It exhiliits on its siinimit a lilil'
briishw
ooil, and at its northern extremity some mangroves.
owani
tin
<ea It IS steri'.
and the siirl' breaks with violence against it; hut towards the bay it is level and siiuioiii
This latter side abounds with shidl-lish and sand-larks. The herbage slielters iiiiiiiy
arniadilloes, and there are numerous deer and otlier animals of chase. There isi
church, and some fi
iriii:;s of ^ood water.
The Isl Old (irande, uhich bounds the western side of the channel, is 14 or 15 milt
111
length, and lies in the centre between the two c
hanni
The Wesle
n, (
r (iaii'i:
Chauiiel, is ;> leagues wide, and both cliaiimds have deep water within tliein. On mur-
ing this passage there arc said to he several small bays at the western shore ; and in fil-
tering the ea.stern clianmd there are also tlie bays of Palnias, Albroo, and Ksidiella. a'l
situated on the eastern siile of the Isle of (irandi
Pal
nla^
>ay IS repiii
ted K
good amhoiage, inasmuch as a vesscd may lie landlocked within it, and ride in 'i m ■
fathoms water. The other two are smaller, and have a depth ol .'), d, and 7 fathoms.
The following directions are (Voni the .loiirnals of Mr. IJruce, iMaster of II. M. Sliil
Diamond, in lir'^6 : —
"The west
kiiinvii iiy a n
111 hriii;; -N. b
I'liint. Kee
IS laid dmvii ii
iiiiniicr III is
liiw and ban
■ II. Ill] side, ca
Vc'iAiJIc Isiaiic
li.iij nil where
iiiaiiiii'. that II
llliis nil tlie s
li'iwci'ii them
iii'ii steered i
jibii.'c observe
jtiiii far to the
[nms; have seei
liin:: Point ; iii-
11 liiat they nil
Itii'aiiile ill '), II
Iriiiiiiil .lagesoiis
lilii' extremes o
-liinc. We pa
[ Hr!l-\voo(led or
ailioins water.
[uiiiiily island
i(iai\ !'J I'eet w.i
•Tlic iiest, II
liiiaiii land on b
llaiboaid side, a
jtliiiiiis of water
Itlii' aiiclmrage ol
iMaiinra Island I
|traiiue of Tagiia
J^iiiit Sapatiba I
III sailing fri
jtlic Islands of (i
hvarils (ial)ia (Jra
piii; the shores o
llic reel's on that
Jlii'loic you get tl
Ilia (irande bore
j^liiviii!.; slioaleil jj
StlHiiiis, that the
ICiaiide iNf. E. \]
The Marailil
bfalnl. with coiiii
■nil ','i't within 1
•liouhl nor bring
^etstrongly over
i'aint .loatingji
Klnicit. This
u~;yr\v. Thi
land whicdi forn
[iroached with sa
l-'roni Point (';
"i'''os : thi,.^ (r|.,,
[»'lipr smaller oiii
li'' jiilots assert
|linm;v|i whi(!h la
'^ii't'* of the eoasi
|li'iiild not attemi
•ur. Ih'iice sayi
"llowing hearing
il!'"i'e appear to I
ffnn all winds.
^,t^Sti^'
BLUNT S AMi:UICA]V COAST PILOT.
557
coast of I)ni/.il, n,
ilcli is iKit liiiildimi,
i- iioiiii ohst'iviilii.ii.
lotii wiis CouikI Will:
■ iiU'i" (Ict'pi'ni'd Mii;
ilif island of Aiii
JSC, wllicll WilS K,;.
riiitiou was t'ouiiil ;r,
ly il down.
niHiii^ IJio .laiKiui.
wljcrc tlir irin:;ii
'roiM tliis ] (lint yn
istant eitjlit liM^m ,
liitt' and d:iik i;iii;;
at tlio distance iip
as already ilcscrilin!.
(• most ceitain iikh,
; tlic low land oI'Mv
d ilio Mono (le 31:1-
mint (d'tlif l*i;iy;ii;i
(iiiaratiba by a siik,1I
2 of H leafjut'S K. mi
•atest caution. iv|.p.
p niDic iicccssiiiv nr
.". nidcs to the sdiiiji.
roiii I lie coast at tin,
and and gravel.
, formed between ij.f
'Stern one is liniinilni
e by the same isliiinl. 1
I' entrances coiuiiKi.i
H. The pilots say. I
Mm s()iindins:svaF
•e.idily procure wtm'' j
is the little isliimlo
with both wood ami |
and refreshiiieiiti
ir're situated.
• (>(' the Hay el" ill
w is very im|iei-|ii;
main land. ciiiii|ir''
ands and jilacos !>
tern or IMarainlm'.
bv tlie sin;:!'' l"''''
nbaya. Tlies;iii(k|
sea. In most |i:iri-.
rs it is covered willi
)n its sunnnit a lilt''
(Is the sea it is.sti'fi'.
level and smnuili
ba^e shelters iii.iny
■hase. There i<i
el. is 14 or LO niilf-
A'estern, or (i'ain>~''
in them. On oiitir-
shore : and in •''i'
fo, and I'.schelln. all'
is reported to li;i»'
. and ride in <> >» '
., and 7 fathom^;,
istirof II. M. Slii
••'j'lie westeri'. channid between the Ilha Orande and .Toaliniia Point may readily be
Uiiiwii liv a reniari^id)lt' hill inland, tailed the Friar's llood; this you should endeavor
111 liriiii; N. by '''• •'. ''•' -'H'l tli<'U sleci- towards it until you ;:et within '.'.'. miles of the
riii.'ii. Ktn'j) at this distaiire from the island, in order to avoid the sunken rock, which
I, Liiil down in the chart about luid-channel : we kept about -J miles otf, ami saw n uroat
iiaiiilier (d islands ovc-r towards tj'.e main .M'ter passing Starlins; Point, we |)Preeived
I liiw and barrel; island, lyiim about I', mile from Ilha (iraiidr; this we lel't on the star-
ii.ad side, carrying ') and 10 lalhoms close to it. \\v then discovered what is called
|'i'i'r\ille Island, and also the Town of \'illa (irande; steered tor the Island T«'rville, and
l|i,ii| im where less than (>.', and 7 fathom.s. (ir<'en Island lies so very close to V'illia
(,r;iiide. that until you s;et close to it, it cannot be distinguished as an island. We lel't
filiis 111) the slarboanl side, and Terville island on the larboard, and had ') and (^ fathoms
Iniwci'ii liiem; kept (lose to lilia ( i ramie, until (iabia (irande was distinctly perceived;
liicii .steered towards it. i^radually deepening otir water to Ti and l.'i fathoms." Mr.
1)111, ■(' observes. " I have no hesitation in sayiii!! the wliole of these islands are laid down
[loo liir to the westward in all thecharts; Inr if they had been correctly .'lelineated. wo
[imis; have seen Uarren Island, Klam and (Iretri hdands, the moment we roniided Star-
liii;: I'oint; instead of which, tliey were not visible until we had passed V'ernieille Point,
Imi tliat they must be ne.irer to Hsdudla Point. We rounded close to the Island (labia
[(ir.iiide in '), 10, and 11 fathoms, and tluMi steered for the cluster of islands which lies
lidiuid .la,','esons. or .ia;.'enos [slaml, and came to fortlie niirht in 14 fatlioms. sandy i:round,
jiii'" extremes (d' the islands bearitu; S. !•;. and N. K. by K., distant 1' mile from the
Isliore. We passed through between the islands Kcu'tada and a small, low, round, and
iHcll-wooded one. which lies nearly west, distant -J miles from the former, in 1() and 17
I'.iilmms water, '''his is a very safe pussa,'.:e with a le.idins; wind ; but due east from the
iHiiody island ■ ulcerous reef runs oft' aliiuit the lenulh id' ."! cables, upon which are
[oaU !'.' I'eet walt'r: tliis theret'ore must alwavs lie carelhllv ;;uarded against.
The best, most common, and by tar the safest |)assa}j;e to Sa|)atiba, is by keeping the
liiKiiii land on board, leavins: 'he whole of the Islands of Tacurueu and Madeira on the
[l;irl)oaiil side, and those of .Taj^enos (ui the starboard : yiui will then have 10 and ') fa-
|llioiiis of water until you <;et abreast (d" .Madeira: it then sjradiiallv shoalens towards
:lie ;iii(liiirau<' of Santa Cru/., oil' which we anchored, with the foliowin;j; bearings: —
j^ladeiia IslamI W. by .\. .', N. distant vi; miles; Tacurueu Island W. by S. AS.; en-
pniiice of Ta,t;ua iviver N. W. ^ N., distant l.V tnile; Mount .Maraud)aya S.'W., and
]'(iiiit Sajiatiba H. by S. j S. in •')',' fathoms, miuldv ground.
Ill sailini; from hence. w<> kept the main land on board, and when we were between
;liO Islands ot' (iabia (.'rande and l''ortuda. cauulit a westerly wind, ^'ou nniy stand to-
hv.irds (labia (iran(h> into any depth you choose; but you must be cautious in approach-
Siii: the shores of Marambaya. Stand not into less than 10 fathoms, lest yon tret upon
;lie reefs on that side; you will have 1."), J 7, 10. and in two casts only •'i faii'oms; then,
Jlii'l'ovo y(ui i;et the shi|) round, you will be in 4 fathoms : with the above soundini;s, (ia-
|lii;i (liiiiide bore N. N. \V.. and Point .Marambaya S. by K. It appears by the water
|li;iviii!^ shoaled gradually wlien standing; towards the reef, from 17 to l.'i. It), and 7 fa-
^iioms, that the western ed^e of it lies wiili Point Marambaya 8. E.r, K., and Gabia
tiniiido .\. E. .', N.
'The Marandtaya or Eastern CJhaimtd, is upon the whole very safe, and may be navi-
;;it('(l, with common prudiMice, with very little danger. Slioiild the wimls be light when
lull ;'et within Point .^l uambaya, and the llood or easterly current is making, you
^lioiild not bring (labia (Irande "to tlie northward of N. E. o'r N. E. | N., for the tides
>i't stniiialy over Marambaya lleefs. and there are plenty of jjIiiccs for anchorage."
l",iiiil .loatiiiira, which is the wesieru point of the (lairoso Chamud, has a small islet
•Inn' it. This island, ac( iirdins: lo I'laron Koiissin, lies in "j:! ' j.S' .".il" S. and longitude
II 3') W. This Point, with that of Cariocii, terminates the southern part of the high
laid which forms the vast liay of Illia (Irande: both are very lofty, and may be ap-
pmiK'heil Willi safety by all s,i,ls of vessels.
From I'oint Carioeii the land runs W. -j:',^ S. about ') leagues towards tlie Islands of
"rcos: this group comprehends an island s(miewhat high, and is accompanied by three
^lior smaller ones ; one of these lies to the southward, the others to the eastward.
lie pilots assert " that between this island and the continent there is a very fine channel,
Iiimii2;li which large vessids may pass, and anchor in perfect safety. Yon may at many
prts of the coast procure woo(i and water, also cattle and other necessaries: but you
|lioiilil not attempt this passage without haviiiL^ the advantatre of a fair wind."
Mr. lirnce says, " When I was near the shore about the Island of I'orcos, I took the
fi'llowing hearings of a very interesting cbislcr of islarir/s : between the wliole of which
li!'M'e apjiear to be irood and safe passages, with excellent anchorages inside, sheltered
T'lm all winds. Tho Islaiul of Porcns bore S. W. .} W. distant 12 miles; the <irbt or
556
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
§
inshore island ;il)ont Ir.ilf a mile from the main, and situated abreast of a very finn siiiknI
beach, N. by E. distant tliree-quarters of a mile; second isLmd N. E. by K. distnm'i
mile; a rociv which is 10 feel above tiie level of the sea, E. N. E. distant 1^' mile; aiiiil
an island, wiiicli appeanl to i)e L'.} miles in lenpfh, and forming a sort of cape to tliisliiile|
bay, E. I)y S. distant ;5.', miles; with 6 smaller islets inside of it, running to the N. tiisi.
ward in a semicircular form.
Mr. .1. Enuledue, of 11. M. Ship Bedford, observes, " The bay in Porcos Island fonni |
a fjood roadstead, Ixiini; sheltered from all winds, except those from the N. E. to tiiet
by N. which seldom continue lonjf eiiousih to occasion a sea of any consequence; jtmav i
therefore be considered the best and safest of any on this part of the coast. Tlierciscil
rei^ular tide, and the water does not rise or fall above 1 foot. Shark's Road also
good anchorage with all winds except those from the southward, which occasion a hea\) |
tumbling sea, and render iarge vessels unsafe. "
SAINT SEBASTIAN'S ISLAND.— Point Pirasonungo, * which is the S. eastfrcl
point of the Island of St. Sebastian, bears from Redonda Island W. S. W. i S. {\\a\\\-\
4t).', Ie:'i2;ues, and from the Point Cariocu S. W. ^ S. distant 4') miles. It'is ahouM:
leagues in diameter, and the mountains are as lol'ty as those upon the main land, Irfc; I
which it is separated by a narrow channel. This island is visible 15 leagues off in (hr |
weather: the shores are very steep, the south point projects sensibly, and the coast turm
directly to the E. S. E. so far as the S. S. E. point of the island. The eastern rw;
runs nearly in the direction of the meridian. The whole island is in the form of ainl
angle, and the coast opposite to (he continent forms with it a strait, or channel, mtU
deep bays, where you will fmd excellent anchorage on a bottom of mud, having (Voni5,i|
to H fathoms. " While nuMitioning the ipialities of the soundings," says the lliiron,
may observe that on the Coasts of Hra/.il, muddy ground is most always to be found neai |
the highest lands."
Many islands, or groups of islets, situated to the northward of the Island of St. Sehj<- 1
tian, contribute to shelter the vast basin which the island forms with tlie continent. %
most contiguous is the Island of Victoria. Six miles E. "^H^ N. of Victoria are the thm
little Islets of I'.u/.ios ; and 11 miles N. 15" W. of these lie the Porcos Islands, ;ilreai!i|
noticed. The passages between these islands have water suflicient for the largest ves-
sels, like that between the Island of St. Sebastian and the main : however, the passari |
between Victoria and St. Sebastian's being contracted by a reef, which stretches 2 niiies^
the S. S. \V. of the former, it is somewhat hazardous for large vessels to pass thrnusliit
TIIE S'J'KAIT OF ST. SEBASTIAN is formed between the island and the conti-
nent, and oilers a safe and connuodious port for the largest vessels : its general direitire
is N. 30" E. and .S. IJO" W.. but this course cannot be followed exactly tlirouglioulilif I
strait, on account of the banks which nm out from the continent two thirds of its Jen:"
from north to south. Vessels coming from the northward, and leaving a point situaie:!
half a mile from L'Armacao, which is built at the head of the northwest side ol the islani
should first proceed S. 10" W. for about 5 miles, and then S. 45" W. until they get oii!
of the strait. In this passage, which is about 11 miles in length, the least water wIIImI
10 fathoms, but more frequently from 15 to 20 fathoms, the ground being always of muii,
which holds '.veil. The greatest breadth between the isbmd and the main is about thm I
miles, and this is at the northern entrance ; but two thirds of this space is occupied M
the banks just nientioned, over which there are not above three fathoms water; so tb:
you must range along the shore of St. Sebastian's Island, at the distance of 500or6i}(l
fathoms.
The southern entrance is much narrower : nevertheless, all the natives assure you ita
the largest shi])s may navigate it, by only following the direction of the channel. Yo3 1
could not wish for a harbor tnore tranquil than this of St. Sei)astian ; for, environed k; |
high land, the vessel rides on water which is as smooth as though it wire in a basin.
Von will find at S.. Sebastian the advantages of a good supply of cattle, poultry, arnck,
and other provisions customary to the countries situated within the Tropics. You may |
ol)taiii I hese very easily, and at moderate prices, either at the two principal estabiishmrnts,
or at the habitations of the natives, which are scattered about in great numbers in the]
interior of the coast. Fish are seldom very |)lentiful, but they are of a good qiialiiy.
Tiie ancient town of St. Sebastian is on the continent, at the narrowest partoflhel
strait. Since 1H17 the Brazilians have projected another, to be called Villa Novadil
Prince/.a, sittiated near the north entrance on the island. It is 400 fathoms S. W. oi|
this new establishment, where there is the best anchorage for mc of war, hiivinc 1
fathoms water on a bottom of grey sand. There are a great many watering places on th?|
Island of St. Sebastian : one of the best is at the entrance to the new town and L'Armaf
•This point, according to Baron Rousain, is in latitude 2,3' 57' 32", and longitude 45°20'1&'I
W. ; but Captain Heywood, in 1810, tnndc it only in longitude 45"^ 9' 30".
• This lighthous
'Mmi:
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
559
; of a very fiiio siitiilt )
I. E. by H. ilist:im'j
distant 1^' mile; -.nA
t oC cape to tliislmliJ
ining to the N. i;i>|.
Porcos Island form* |
, the N. E. to tliet,
conse(|uence; itmav |
e coast. There isrii
lark's Road also )i,.
lich occasion a Lean I
lich is the S. eastrrD |
r. s, w. i s. limi
iiilcs. It is abouiC
the main land, liW, i
15 leajmiesofl'indfirl
y, ami the coast turn
I. The eastern cukJ
in the form of airi-
rait, or channel, mth
mud, havinj; iVom'jjl
," says the Biirnn, '
ways to be found neai
e Island of St. Sehsi-
1 the continent. T:-
Victoria are tlic ihm
orcos Islands, aircao I
nl for the largest ve*-
however, the passari I
ch stretdies U niileji*
lels to pass thrniishii
island and the conii-
: its general direiiiK
actly throujihoiii ifct |
vo thirds of its lenrf
ivins; a point situaie:|
ifest side oltheislaM,
W. until they get or. I
le least water wIIIm
leing always of inui
main is about three
space is occupied fc'
loms water; so tk
stance of 500or6i)il|
tives assure you tte
the channel. Vol
n ; for, environed h \
were in a basin,
ittle, poultry, arrack, I
Tropics. You may
eip.il establislimfDtf,
eat numbers in ilie|
f a good qtiality.
arrowest part of the I
ailed Villa Nnvadj
10 fatlioins S. W.ot
(' of war, havincl"!
atiring places on the I
V town and L'Armif
longitude 45° 20' 1&'
fno, situated at the N. W. point of tlie island, where water is goi ' and easily obtained.
Wood for fuel may also be had on all parts of the adjacent coiitmi it.
The winds at St. Sebastian follow, almost always, the directiou of the Strait, except
intni"ht, when the laiul breezes blow alternately from many points, without following
Unv rei^ular law. During the day the winds generally <:ome from the N. N. E. and the
1 s;. s. W., following the direction of the land ; but are frequently interrupted by intervals
|ol* calm.
The currents follow the same directions as the winds, and their velocity is proportion-
ate to the force of the latter: the most common in the Straits, is from ,'„ of a mile per
hour, to 1 ,"„ of a mile.
The tides have no regularity within the Strait; nevertheless, we thought we could
reckon that it is high water on the days of new and full moon, at 2 o'clock. The rise
( ol' the tide has been estimated at 4 feet.
The anchorage is situated in latitude '2:P 47' iifi " S. and In longitude 45^ 2T W. The
{variation was .'i^ 'J5' E., in .June, Iril'J. We have observed that the land of St. Sebas-
I tian's Island, and that of the neighboring parts, is uuu;li elevated ; the hills are covered
[with wood up to their sununit, and have a most agreeable aspect. The coasts are steep,
iauil you may anchor any where at a little distance from them, on a good bottom; and
[tliere is, in general, no danger but what appears above water.
About W. S. VV. \ \V. from the southern eiuraiu;e of the Strait of St. Sebastian is
[that of Santos, the distance being nearly 50 miles. IJetwceri them you will perceive the
[deep bay which forms the coast, and also a immber of islands near the shore, of which
lllie Monte de Trigo, (Stack of Corn,) is the nu)st considerable. The Monte de Trigo
lis nearly conical, high, and woody to its very sununit. At 2 or 3 miles from it, as well
las at the same distance along the neighboring coast, yon will fmd a good passage with
[from 12 to 25 fathoms, on an excellent bottom of iimd. Due east irom this island, at
i about 14 miles distance, is a small rocky islet, called Toquetotjuc; it lies just o(f t) •;
li western entrance of the Strait of St. Sebastian; and in coming out or going in, shouid
6 always be left to the northward. Some small rocky islands also lie close to the shore,
land to the N. E. of Monte de Trigo.
LES ALCATRAZES. — The group of Alcatra/.es is composed of several barren
Irocks above water, the largest of which may be seen 7 leagues olf. Viewed from the E.
]S. E. it has the appearance which ])ainters commonly give to the (lol|)hin; whose head,
ijoined to two little rocks, is turned to the \V. S. W. : another rock, larger than the two
jlatier, lies at the distance of 2 miles to the W. N. \V., while 2 or .'3 others are situated
Jabout a similar distance to the north-eastward. The pilots say the bottom is not safe in
Ithe parts adjacent to this grou|) of rocks, and that it will be prudent not to approach them
[nearer than 4 or 5 miles, and that with a fair wind. This precaution may be rendered
[necessary by the vicinity of the Strait and Island of St. Sebastian, which cause the cur-
irents to be very considerable at this part. Mr. J{ruce asserts, that vessels beating to
Jwindward from Santos, may pass close to the Alcatra/.es, which are steep to, and visible
Klrt or 12 leagues olf in clear weather.
I? The summit of the principal island of the Alcatra/.es is in latitude 24° 6' 5" S. and
' I longitude 45"^ AG' ."52" W. The variation in IHI'), was 5° E.
It will here be proper to mention a roc k first seen by Manoel Madeiros, a Portuguese
ffnmmander, on tlie l.'Uh of February, Lill, who sounded round it at 100 latlnims' dis-
Itance, and was unable to reach the ground. He entertained no doubt of the real exist-
jcnceofthis danger, and described it to be a round naked rock, sometimes abov*; water,
land often covered by the s.vell of the sea. Tim mariiu'is of Hra/.il seem to allow the
|reality of this danger, which is said to lie .^5 leagues S. by E. from the S. K. I'oint of St.
[Sebastian, and 72 leagues E. 2')' N. from the N. E. Point of St. Catharine's Island ; or
linlat. 25^ 41' 20" S., and long. 44° 5'i' \V. from (Jreenwich.
Haron Roussin observes, this danger appeared nearly in a similar situation on two MS.
charts of the Portuguese, then in his possession; and therefore he thought it ought to
he placed on all maritime charts in future.
W. ^ N., distant 11 leagiu-sfrom the Alcatra/.es, is the Island of Moela, upon which
lighthouse is erected.* The island is situated olf the eastern point of the Harbor
of Santos.
SANTOS. — The Port of Santos was formerly much frequeiiled by Portuguese
^essels, but is now only of secondary importance ; for the riches of the provinces ofKio
jJaneiro, Bahia, and Pernambuco, acfpiire every day a predominance more considerable
llliiin all the southern provinces. This jxirt is formed by the continent and the Island S(.
I-^maro, being only separated from tlie former by the little iliver Pertioga. 'J'here are
itwo entrances, but only that of the south is navigable by large vessels; for the other,
'V\
I
560
BLUiNT S AMi;UICAN COAST PILOT.
formed l)y tlic Kivcr Bertio^a, is only (it Cor Hinall craft. The Harbor of .Siititos «ii| ;i,|
luit lar!j;e sliips;, wliicli may ride sheitered (iom all winds, excej)t those from tlic S.^S.W
totlie.S.K.
The Point of Taypu, wliich forms the western point of the cntranie, is in iat. jj |
0' -JU " W. The i'dint olMandiiha is to ihc casiw .-kI ; in,,]
II" S.
(I in I
oni
•)()
on the same paiallcl, about a mile to the suntli-caslward of which is the jiitlu I
lMo(da, whiih may be a|)proaehi'(l wilhonl danger.
TJie Ibllowiii!.^ dircciions arc liy Mr. I5riice, whose name has frLMiinmliy been inn,,.
dueed in the course of this work.
" 111 shH'rinjr fur Santos from the southward, you may pass clust; to tlic Jslauii lidlii,.
da, (the t^uciuiada (irande of JJoiissin.) I)earini; iS. K. ,', iS. distaiU 1 mile; it Is :.' nnk
loDi^ and narrow, and lies about iN. N. K. and 8. 8. W.: the highest part is to the ,8. \\',
which appears lofiy and bhill', and, with ihi- above bearing, seems to be round. ,\. \\\
from this island is aiiotiier, distant nearly G miles : tisis is small and (juite round, In;,,,,
thickly wooded, and visible "JO miles oil". After passiuij; between these islaiKU. j i,,,"
ceivr ' rock T^ or 1.') (eet high, and a little larger than a line of batthvship's iaiuidi'
(neuher ol" these two last appear in tlie charts.) 'J'he following are their beariiiijs im
lerhaps iJedonda, S. K. ,', K. distant about b miliN
miles; and the Koi k N. K. •,' >i. abont (> milts
estimated distances: — Jiargt; Island, perhaps iJedonda, S. K. ,' K. distant about (
small round Woody Island, S. \V
the Rock in one witi
K
ediiiKla,
J"-. ; Kock d Woody Island in one S. \V, h<
When going into Sant(js l!ay, I took the folliMvii,^ bearings: iJii-d or J}uty Islaml,
Laage de Santos of Houssin.) S. E. dislanl. l leagues; Aleatra/es, K. \' i\. ]-,'(i|
leagues; supposed Ixedond.i, S. \V. I \V. lOor 11 leagues; and i'oiiit Kngenho. iKm
nearly *) miles : at this distance we could not see either the Woody Island, or the ;; r,
" In advancing into the River Santos, you will have 10, '). ,-^, and 7 fathoms watr
r, ii; :
lillTll
you near the bar, iii)on which there are only 1', and ■') I'ailiouis : the enlrance is i
but the starboard side is much the boldest, and has 1') fathoms water close to th(
Alter passing the (irst Harra (irande, the water deepens to 1.') and !(> fathoms, wiiliin i.
fathoms of the shore. Keep tin; sf.irboard land close on board, until you get abrcii.-ii
a few huts ; then steer mid-chaiinid, keeping gradually on towards llie highest or ikmiJi.
ernmosl lull, therc^ being two on the wcsti'rnniost Ijaiik of the river, and these art' il,(
Illy ones, therefore you cannot be mistaken. Steer from the huts before niciit
o
towards these t\vo
hills
'he reach is shallow, with not more than .'5 fathoms on it : \h
lllllhi
the starboaril side will be found the fdioalest ; keep therefore close to the
hill.v
water will deeneii to (> fathoms ; but
Living p
d the hills, you may ayain rm
the starboard shore, and when you have passed aiiout -J cables' length, then steer lor
fort on the starboard bank of the river. This is erected upon a perpendicular rock, cji
ami \iiii:
1 U)\\;iPi
to which are "JO fathoms wate
anil wiien yo
u arrive abreast ol tl
IS tort, you will
town of Santos nearly open of the point on the larboard side. Steer to\vard
S II,
•I'I'l!,
M'I'M'
about v! or ;> cables' leimtli from the shore,
and
you \vill then avoid the si
loai whiilnii
from it, and be perfe( tly clear also of the bank which runs oli' the fort in the (liniiiuii
of the town, on the starboard hand, and when almost up to liie town, you can untlior.
The best anchorage will be ai)re;ist nearly of the centre of the town, in 7 fathoi
bottom of miu
V
rovismns are
diundant, and good water may be (djt;iined by
lis, nil ;,
'(■mill).-
a boat about 7 or )^ miles further up the river
"To enter this port a pilot is not absolutely necessary ; for the above directiiii)>,ii
well attended to, will be fully sufficient to carry you in, clear of every danger. Win
you get abreast of the town, you will observe the high land opposite, on the nortiieni-ii
of the river. You may pull towards this, and round Carvailo I'oint preltv cldM', U
which you will open the [jago de St. Ivita. This like is about four miles in circiiiii-
ference. Steer rijiht u]) it for the distanci; of a (|uarler of a mile, and stretch diiccih
over for a low round island, thickly (overed with brushwood ; and when you get
tl
lis, you will jierceive another island, somewliat siinilar m appcMiance
lu'iir
vecp iiiMicr!
ii\i'r.
the first island, and pass between them ; (hen you will ojieii tiu! entrance ol the
and also will observe another branch or opening on the starboard side. Jvee)) the lar-
board shore on board, and jmll up about ;j or 4 miles. You will then find ilie wain
freshen. A boat may with ease make two trips a day ; but as the atmos|)here isliotami
sultry, all boats should endeavor to get on board before half alter .'i o'clocii ; for at lli>
time it commonly begins to rain, and continues to do so until 10 at night. \\ oml h'm
abundance.
The IJarra de St. Vincent is on the west side of the entrance to the i'ort of SantflN
but the eolitiniial iiicre.ise and aeeumulalio
n ol
and was once a good chaiiii
liave choked its entrance up, for now it will searcrdy admit canoes to pass.
Le Laage, or Rock of Santos, lies ]().', miles S. 14" E. of the Island Moela: iti^a
smooth white stone, elevated about 6 or H feet above the surfaoe of the sea; it lies in
latitude 24' 18' S. and in longitude iC^ 17' W. Midway between tliis danger ami tin
Port of Santi
the usual qu;
Leaving th
a distance of
iiirerii r; for i
teisected and
ilie apj)earan(
but continues
The Vdlag
uliicli you ni:
taiit 20 miles,
."iea, which the
,iie from I'J to
jwrt of SantoJ
ami ]'> miles f
The Island."
I each other 1(]
MO the S. E., a
\ Hard of it : yo
ilieni and the 1
In sailing ak
[ Kiver and llill
■ lie Unha, the j
..miles off thr h
' shore becomes
opposite increa;
IGL'APE A
I the River Cana
t.the middle, anc
i sailing along it,
J Ihan in or 12 fii
^f'd from the co
iX'aiiaMea, and is(
pcpth .sntficient
Jiuist not coiifou
icajiues further
liaaied in latitude
L Ton may anci
^excellent nuuhh
jtliis coast access"
|jbi a calm, when
_ After passing ;
[|t the Island Ho
I which the Hrazil
^ver, "you may
w common cha
fhe Island JJom
it a little distance
y it, about 2 mil
[I bottom of sand
'J'lie 13ar of Ca
Jiicnous: one is
pin Bom Abrigi
i»liite sand, int(
hape, a distanc
fthe chain ofuK
•remarkably, thi
I"", will prevent
f low coast wit]
Pnn this part, an
F'ation, 6 league
jl'imentel, indei
Prre de Cananea
fK to the entranc
Fh of which are
P'thern entrauce,
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
561
r of Santos will ;ii|.
iu tVoui tliL' S.fS.W,
ue, is ill lilt, v'l I
tlic ra^lwnul ; ;ii.,|
is the link' lv|,ii,|
(jucntly ijeeii iiuni-
() the Lshiud lUtW
I mile; it is 'J iiii!>s
part h to tlic.S. \\\
l)c idiiiiil. N. \\.
(|nit(' loiiiiil, liiiii;
llu'M' islaixU, 1 [ill.
iittlc-sliii)'s laiiiiili;
re their l)t'ariiij;s wA
istaiit al)oiit <> iiiiir>;
',' >». alioilt !i IlliliN;
I ill one S. \» . I)\ >,
or Duty Islanil. (il,,>
I's, K. V N. l^crl:;
)iiit Hiii;ciili(i, iioiiii,
Ishwid, or tin; Umk.
• I'athiiius water, iiii;i!
entrance is iiiimi,,
er close to tlie >liii\>.
l() i'allionis, within r.
itii you Jiet aliiciisii;
llie liiiiliesl or iiuiiii-
,-er, and these areiLt
Us Ijeibre nieiiliinw
; lallioiiis on il iilicrt
to tlie liills, ami \hi;
lay a^aiii run timwi
ill, then steer I'onk
iciiilicular roeli. (i^'H
lort, you will M'l'ii/'
cr towards il, kir]]'.
the shoal whiclinii.-
i fori in the (iin'ctinii
iwii, you ran aiidi'T
11, ill 7 ralhonis, "U ■■
idjiained by stiiiiin;
i(> above direetinnNii
Ivery (laii.uer. Wim
(uii the ii(irtliorii>iii''
J'oiiit pretty eliiM'. Ii;
lour miles in cliTUiii-
]', and stretch ibiiii>
hen you i,et lU'ar i'
nee. Keep nearer i'
Hitrance ol the livir.
side. Keej) tliPhir-
tlieu lind the «;iur
ituiosphere isliot™'
:; (rclocU; lor m ili>
ui^ht. ^Voolli^":
the Tort of SanliN
leu iiiulal lull of ■'"'
lo pass.
Ishmd Morla: iti*'!
U' the sea; it lies m ]
tliis danger ami tlu
Port of Santos, them are 1!) and 20 fathoms, with a bottom of sand and mud, which is
the usual quality of the ground hereabout.
Leaving the Port of yantos, the coast runs S. \V. towards the Village of Conceicao,
adisiaiice of 8 leagues. The land is generally low at the water's edge, but high in thj
iiiterier; for a chain of mountains runs along 4 or 5 leagues inland, and the shore is in-
insecled and broken by several rivulets, which, in sailing along at a distance, gives to it
ilie apjiearance of islands. This chain of mountains is broken by the Harbor of Santos,
but continues to run E. by N. so far as the Harbor of St. Sebastian.
Tlie Village of Conceicao is situated on a little mountain near the shore, 4 miles off
which you may auchoi in 10 or IJ fathoms water. To the S. W. of Point Taypu, dis-
iiiiit JO iniles, is an isolated rock, elevated about 10 or Ivi feet above the surface of the
sea, which the Portuguese call Laagc de Conceicao, at a pistol-shot distance from which
.iii'froin 112 to 14 fathoms, sand and mud. Olf this part you may distincly perceive the
. port of Santos. This rock lies 7 miles to the E. 31" S. of the Village of Conceicao,
ami If) miles to tlie N. 4^ W. from C^ueimada (irande.
The Islands of (^ueimada are two masses of rocks, nearly barren, and distant from
each other 10 miles, in a S. E. and N. W. direction; the largest, which is farthest
to the S. E., and may be seen 7 or 8 leagues off, has a little rock lying to the north-
«arii of it: you may, without danger, go between the two C^ueimadas, or pass between
tlicm and the land.
Ill sailing along the shore to the south-westward, yo-i will rerogni/e successively the
JPviverand Hill of Piruibe, the two Isles of (^ueimada, the Isles of tiuarahu, the Harra
ide Unha, the Point da J urea, and the River Iguape. At the distance of from 3 to 10
• miles off thr '.and, you will have a depth of from 8 to 15 fathoms. The coast near the
shore becomca rather high, and runs in the direction of S. 50^ W., and the soundings
; opposite increase in proportion to the elevation of the adjacent coast.
IGUAPE ANU CANANEA. — 'J'he coast, from the entrance of the River Tguape to
[the River Cananea, is called the Playa de Iguape ; it is a low sandy ilat, except about
the middle, and cannot be seen unless you are a very little distance off; therefore, in
isailiiij; along it, you ought never to come nearer the land than '2 leagues, nor into less
hhan 10 or 12 fathoms water, with a bottom of sand. This Playa de Iguape is separa-
fiom the continent by a lake, or natural canal, which communicates with the l»arof
Y'aiiaiiea, and is called by the Portuguese, Mar Peiiuina, or the Little Sen, This lake has
'cpth snilicient for large vessels, but the Bar of Iguape will only admit of boats. You
Hist not confounil this opening with the Bar of the River Iguape, which is situated 3
leasiues further to the north-eastward, and forms the entrance of the River Iguape, sit-
. ated in latitude 24'^ .'55' S.
You may anchor all along this coast at the distance of 2 or 3 miles off the Playa, on
excellent imiddy ground, with from (i to 10 fathoms water; but there are no ports on
tliis coast accessible to large ships, and there can be no necessity to .anchor here, unless
l|h a calm, when you have no occasion to expose yourself to danger.
, After passing along the Playa de Iguape, you will arrive at the Rar of Cananea, and
|t the Island Hoin Abrigo, whicVi lies to the southward of the Bar of Cananea, within
which the Brazilians construct their large vessels: and the natives say, that to enter the
Sver, "you may pass with a pilot to the southward of the Island of Bom Abrigo; but
IP common channel is to the northward, althouah it is encumbered with many shoals."
"^hc Island Bom Abrigo is very high, and covered with trees; and vessels may anchor
It a little distance olf to the eastward. There is a little island lying to the southward
f it, about 2 miles to the eastward from which there are 11 and 12 fathoms water, ou
I'l bottom of sand.
The Bar of Cananea may be known from seaward by two objects, both equally con-
Picuous: one is the Mountain of Cardo/., situated inland, about 5 leagues \V. N. W.
|nm Hum Abrigo; tlie other is the Playa de Iguape, or Hat, consisting of little downs
f white sand, intersi)ersed with brushwood, which extends all the way from the Bar of
Ruape, a distance of 10 leagues, Notwithstanding the short distance, and the height
Ttlie chain of mountains, of which Mount Cardo/, constitutes a part, and predominates
I remarkably, the fogs that prevail throughout this part of the coast in the south mon-
pun, will prevent your discovering the land, an<l large vessels should therefore approach
}( low coast with the greatest precaution. Mount Cardoz is the highest mountain
pnn this part, and is situated in lat. 24^^ 54' 45" S., and in long. 48'^ 12' 20" W. The
kriation, G leagues off the land, was 7° E. in 1819.
J Pimentel, in describing this part, proceeds thus : — " From the Barra de Iguape to the
jarre de Cananea the distance is about 30 miles, the shores being low and Hat. Oppo-
fe to the entrance to the latter, lies the Island Abrigo, dividing it into two channels,
Plh of which are dangsrous, on account of the breakers and shoals thereabout. The
prtliern entrance, called Barra Falsa, is narrow and shallow. Corvettes and small boats
71
5rr2
IJI.Um'h AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
only rnfpr thrre. Tlio soiitlicni ontrano! is widrr and (Iccpcr, and in fliis clianiirlsliins
olhiirtht-n (iiid a ])assas;i'. .S.iil in towards llic scmllifrn slioir, kccpiriii close in ;; hikI i
fathoms water ; but observe tin- har is shiriirii;. and ronsf>(|U(Mitlv danf;crons to all Mr;ii].
gcrs. Tlio har is altoiil a mile in brradlli. Wlicn yon arc within you will dc(>|i( n \„||j
water to 5, (>, and 7 fathonis, and may anchor as most convenient lor yonr |)nr|)o>c.'
From Caiianea southward, you will (all in with a small island, called Castdlo. Tl,,,
is nearly o|)|)osite to the Kiver Arr.'pira, which is now mil naviualile. l-'nrtlier dm,
FiiTuera, another small island : and eoastiir,' alon^, von will reach the T.arra de S
iiiii.
gui, admitlin;^ canoes only.
'I'his eri'ek is divided I'lnm the main entrance to tl
Paranagnaby the Island of Pecas, near a mile iVom the southern part ol' which art
rocks. Tliese rocks form the northern lioundary ol' the chamiel, while tin- [si;
«i.iii»
Mel lies to the
nth. Th
iiassaire
between is near a mill' in width. A lcai;ii(
.sea arc o
niv
I, and .') I'athoms ; but as you approach the bar, it deepens to
P fathoms ; in the chamiel are 1
III ■') fathom
mil when within von will
liavp
and 7 fathoms. There is another entrance to the souihwaid of .Mel Island, called II;
do Sul ; but, liiu' the Marra de Supera;^ui, it is fit only for boat.>
Tl
le course to [';
nairiii
md the \'illa .\ntoniiia is due west. The former is on the larbiiariUiip
II
Imost 1 lea;:ues from tlie bar, while the latter is latlier to the northward, and ;il;,
ea2;ues up
(hi
river,
uid
There are several islands scattered about, but the el
V k
laiiiiv
generally clear, ami every known danger is visniji
Konssiii says, that in followiiii; the land to the i*^. westward of I'.om Abriwo, totlicrli^
tatice of 10 miles, you will meet tlw little Island Castillo, and H^' miles beyond tlmi, ;
the same direction, the Island of Ki'^o, or Fii^nera, both which have obtained tlieiriiini^
from their peculiar appearance : the former is somewhat less elevated than the Imif.
but broader, and has a ridj^e risint; up in the middle, which may be mistaken fiiriun>t|f
the latter resembles a iig. They are both nearly barren, and bear from each nilip-v'
35" W. and N. .'i")^ K. In drawing near to them, you will have, at the distance of;
mile, from IT) to 10 fathoms, fine sandy ground.
P.\RAN.\(HT\. — Haviii;^ [lassed to tlie southward id' Fi;j:nera about H or 0 iiiilns.v,:
will open the Bar of Parana:,'ua. This is a bay of '{ or -1 Iea<;-ues diainoter. reeeiviniimj:, |
brooks and little rivers : the entrance is sheltered, and at the same time divided imnn'
channels by a low island, upon which are many little hills, appearinjr, whin vrr:
at a distance, like several islands. '^I'his island, named Isle do Mel, has on its nonh-ps;
ern side, three little Islets das I'almas. The southern entrance is eiiciinibeicil wril
breakers, and not navigable. The northern channel will admit of brigs, and iiianvj.r;|
built in the bay, which is surrounded by forests, fn iiavii;atinn; the northern p;t>>j;^
the pilots say you oui^lit to leave tiie Islands of Falma to tlie starboard : these ymi «'
recognize by the j)alin-trees with which they are covered, but a pilot must al»av!t!|
employed for the interior navigation.
The water which runs out of the Ilay of Paranagua, constantly carries with it tlipafjl
vial soil of the country, wliii h sensibly is diminishing its depth, but there is dilipin^
nothing material to obstruct its navigation ; and 2 leagues from the two entrain c- ilr:
are from •'3 to ') fatliom< water, the bottom beiiii: crev sand and mud. The coastl'r;
hence to the Island of St. C'athariiu!, cene
y speaking, runs south.
iHiiiis, from a!
Aiiicary ; near
these islands I
]);issai:es bet\M'
and the moiull
anil even then
The Kiver .^
.San l''r.uicisco
li;iy of the saiii
shore, .\. X. F
ilioins water, oi
vated, but intei
ill the interior
Directly soul
the eastern exti
and west; here
chor in sufficie
far as the Island
13 leagues.
S. S. E. 7 le:
hetweeii them a
! several bays. '
Piiiu'nlel says,
! 111)111 all winds,
I selves into this
lliirk woods. '|
I eriy to the Jslan
The summit of the southern hills on the island of AFel is in latitude 2.5° 32' 4
and in longitude 48" i'.j' 40" \V. Tlw variation was (,° 1' F. in IHIO.
OUARATUnA.— .*=!. S. W. from the IJarra do .'<nl de Parangiia is the Point of Jf!-!
Diaz, the eastern point of the entrance of Rio San Francisco ; If) miles N. by W.lk
•which is the entrance to the Iviver (iuaratuba, from the northern point of whichap;in».|
or shoal, runs up to the Rarra do Sul ; this shoal extends 4 or .') miles from the sh^;
and is bounded to the eastward by the little Islets of Coral, and by two great mcl;-.
feet high, called tlie ttaculomis. The shoal is not navigable except by boats; hut hi
may approach the rocks to seaward to the distance of one or two miles, where yoa»i'
have from 10 to \2 fathoms water, the ground being sand and innil.
Pinientel says, "the entrance to the River (luar.atiiba is on thi; nortli side, near.iM
rock, where you will have a deep channel with (> and .-^ fathoms water; but from tlii-!|
is shoal to the southward. This river is reiuarkably rapid, and famed for iis iishim'>-
"Whoever runs for the harbor from the northward, should keep dose to the lanil, iiiii|
for the point of the ro(d< above nientiniied, and when about to enter, keep the small
island astern : this island lies about 1 ' mile to sea, and your anchorage will l)c iiiiiiieiliitf'j
behind the hill to the northward, or opposite to the hill on the south side. Thisii
supplied by several others, of which Rio .St. .loao is the most considerable, ami is s;
be navigable for upwards of 11] leagues."
RIO SAN FRANfTSCO.— ".About Ifi miles south from Cuaratuba is the norilifj
entrance to the Rio San Francisco, capable of accommodating any vesscd, and bavins H'l
6 to 13 fathoms in its chauael. To sail in, it is advisttblc to coast up the land which •■ • An A.'-macao is
ULUM's! AMEllICAN COAST PILOT.
GC3
1 fliis cliiinnrlsliips
11^ dose in li iiml i
prions to ill! Mr;ii|.
(I will (lcc|i( II \i,iii
jiiiir pni'iitiM^,
led ('■■istill... Till,
lie. Furl her dUi,
le ri:irn\ dc Sii|iir;i.
i"uici' 111 till' M i\,'
I ol' wllicll ;iir M.|,„
tvliiic 111'' i-^l:iiiil
:li. A It'ii^iii' ir!i •
•epcns to ■'), fi.7. h
voii will ii;iv(< ',.'
Isliuid, cidlnl r,,|,
riif course to l';;r.
Ill tlif liiri)(i;iril >ii|p,
tliwnrtl. ;iii(l abim; i,
, 1)111 till' eliiiiiiii'i :,
111 Ahrign, loiliHis.
liles heyond tlial, \i\
obtaiiii'd tlifirnaiiiH
lied tliau tlio lutir
luistiiluMi fiUiirMlf
ir IVoni eiicli otlic^,
, at the distiinceoi:
Hint f* or •) inilos.y :
11101 er. r('C('iviMs;iii?:i|
tiiiii' divided intiiu
ppeariui:, whon h;:|
Ir.is oil its uiirth-p •
• is eiirninhrii'il » ;i
f l)ri;;s, and iii;uivi!:|
he mirtliern pava:'.[
loaiil : tliese y(in«i!l
pilot must ahvavst'l
arrios willi itilirj!';!
but thi're is oll;eni;'|
le two entrained th»p|
hud. The L'o;bllrc|
ih.
Iilitude 25° 32' 4." >
19.
la is the Point of J'
miles N. by W.fral
lint orAvhiciiaparm.f
miles (Voiii the •
liy two jjrent rock-. I
pt by boats; l)«t )tf
mile's, where ynu»iT
li.
lnorthsidi\nrnr:il4
■ater ; but tVoni l!ii'i|
liH.'d for iis (isluii''
(lose to the laiiil. "'J
[er, keep tlie small 1
,re will beimiiieiii*']
lull side. TbisiH
Mderahle, aiiilUj;i'''i
iiratuba is tlie iuirilif|
l-e.ss(d, and having It;^
up tlie laud which-
i„ ilie soMilr.vard. in <>
,|,is coast eiid.s, y
mil f^ ratlioms ; and w lien v
oil a
rrive at the headland where
oil should make lor tli(> northern point, taking care tu avoid a bank
iiiiiiiiiiu tu tlie X. E., wllicll is HJioal, liaviii); nut mure than one lathom at low water;
;iiiil as sDon as this north point comes abreast, .stand S. by W. tor the lowii, or fur tlie
'iiiaclior Si.
baili
Oh an eminence, opposiie to wliidi you may am liur in clear
h
5; run
lerniiiM
11(1. 'i'his entrance may be known liy the hi^li wdody land of San l'"ranciseo, wiiich
tes at the. hill ; and also liv the iliree islets Ivmi; two or three miles to the west-
wan
I of this hill. The oilier entrance to the river, ealled Aracary, in six leagues tu the
iitlnvard, and (it only lor r-anoes ; but opposite are soiik' islands with anchorage and
slu'lier Iroin the si
a, in I and .') latlioms water, on a
bott
oiii ol will
tisli
d.
'I'lie Islands ol' (iarcia he on the parallel of the Point ol .loan Dia/., which rornis the
eiistt'rii
extreniilv ol'tlie l»av ol' San l''r.incis
and are situated about -J.', miles i'roiii the
iHiiiit. Koiirteeii miles tu the southward uitliis iljroup uf (Jareia are tiie Tamboretes l.s-
Is, rriiiii abreast ol' \\liicli the coast turns more to the westward, so lar as the River
lam
\iaeaiv ; near the
'iitiaiice ol which is anollier uroiip, called the ivcmcdi
ill
these islands lie at the distance oC "J, .i, m 4 miles Irom the coast, and are said lo have
iiiissaues between them. The islands are covered with trei^s; but betwefjii the Remedios
and the mouth ot the River Aracary, the passajje is .said tu admit uf small vessels only;
anil even then it is not lo In" depended on.
The ixiver Aracary. al'ier riimiin;;; a considerable way up, ami separatim; the Island of
.San 1'
rancisco Irom the mam, turns
.\. K
■lerlv.
anil runs m
to th
e sea at a spacious
bav uf the same name, where you may anchor in ^■everal places. At "J leamies from the
shore, N. N. K. ol'tiie entrance of Kiu San Francisco, you will not liiid inure than 6 la-
ihiHiis water, on a hoitom of line sand. The coast is llat, the hind adiacent hut little ele-
vated, bill inteisperscil with desolate spots, w liicli are rather leniaikable. A lew leaj^iies
ill the interior are tiie Sierras of Maraiuha, a chain of vi-ry liiiih moiiiitains.
Directly south of the Remedios Islands, distant !> leajiues, is the Point Itapacornya,
the eastern extremity of a bay, rather deep, and sheltered hy the winds from the suuth
hi( 1
ami west; here are an iirm<irai>*^ 'and two little rocky islands, near w
chur in sufficient depth of water. At the bottom of this bav the land runs N. I E. s
1 vou mav an-
o
far as the Islands Uarcia, where you will see another uinutcuo, the whole distance being
1,'{ leanues.
S. S. E. 7 leaa;nes and a half from I'oint Itapncoroya if? the Point of Bumbas, and
between them are the Points of ("ambecudo, Camboriu, ^'tajieba, and (iar<<ja.s, funning
several hays. Vou may safely sail aloiiii these points at the distance oi '2 or .'J miles. —
Piinentel
says,
the eiitranet^ to (iaropas l>av is 8 or ') miles broad, and well sheltered
I'litiii all winds, w itli depth of water enousih tor any siiip. Two rivers discharge theni-
ise
Ives into this bav over b
of while rocks, and tlie surrounding land is covered with
thick woods. To the southward is Point Manduri, from wlience yuu pruceed un suuth-
erly to the Island ot' St. (,'atharine. "
Dfscrijtlion of the hlaud and Aiichoraiies of Si. Catharine, Jiij Baron lioiissin.
THE ISLAND OF ST. CATHARINE is situated at a little distance from the
riMitiiunt, upon tlie parallel uf 28^ S. ; it is sufliciently elevated to be visible l.j leagues
'ii HI fine weather. At the above distance you will find 70 farhoms ; thence the depth
"liiiiiiiishes giadn.iliv to within I caiiles' len;;th of the coast, where there are 4 fathoms,
ill apDroachiiig from the eastward, this island appears very uneven, being intersected
[with inouiitains and deep valh'ys : its elevation is greater at tlie southward than at the
[niirthward. Acros.', it the mountains on the (;ontinent are a little more ehnated than
jilmsc (HI tlie island: aii.l you will dislingiiisli among these i)rinei|)ally the 3Iorro de
ICaniborella, which is a Inaiich uf the eastern Cordilleras, which extend from Kio Janeiro
|to this island.
About the iniildle of the island, and near the edge n( the sea, is a large lake, which
Ipresents an opening that may serve to distinguish it is a landfall. At three leagues from
jthc eastern (oast, if you bring this opening to hear west, tlie N. E. point of the Island
jwill he about 3 leagu"s to the N. W. All th:- eastern side of this island is safe and rather
Isteep to, and you may run alongside many large rucks on the coast without danger.
The Island of .St. ('atliarine may be entirely circumnavigated, and many anclioiages
jwill he found between the westein coast and the continent; but tlit! northern part nf tlie
jchaiuie! is the only one fitted to receive vessi Is which draw much water, aud it is to this
||)art we shall limit our description.
Tu entf-r hy the ISurth Channel into (he Gulf or Baj/ of St.. Catharine's. — The passage
Imost frequented, leading to the anchurage, is between the nurth puint of St. Catharine's
• An Arniacao is a building used for tlio purpose of converting the blubber of wholes irrto oil.
564
BUJNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
tind the Arvnrrdo, a woody island sitnatrd N. N. E. from the northrrn point ciillpd Point
Rapa. This passajje i.s rather less tiiati 'J h'a;;n«'s in fxtrnt, and dot-s not contain :inv
danjjer. You may approach it on t'ithcr siih-, oltsorvinir only to kecj) clear oCtlic M,,'.
leques*, which you will leave to the southward : thi'se are iarjje rocks, and lie nr;irih».
shore. We may say tlie same of all the points which surround liiis passage, for you ni;iv
sail close, and heat up to them without the least risk or danger. There are 2f) feet w;ii,'r
at Goo toises distance from the N. W. coast of St. Catliarine's, which is the deepest
water in this part of the channel.
The anchorage for larirr. vessels in the li/ti/ of St. Catharine's. — When you are wiilii,,
the hay, you may anchor any where, aL'reeal)ly to the si/e of your vessel ; by keepinuit,
the middle of the channel, the dejjth will he sulhcient for the largest ships, to 1000 toix,
S. by E. o(f tlie little Island Anhatomirim. Having passed this |)oint, in advancing in
the soiithwanl, the depth gradually decreases; and 8. of the Raton Islands there arc noi
more than 10 or 1".' feet water. There is little more depth west of these islands, \\\\\<,
large bay called by the natives Sacco (rrande : it is a (pliot place to ride in, and principiiHv
frequented by vessels in the whale fisheries: but ships drawing any great quantity m'
water could not have access to it.
There is plenty of water in all the anchorages in the Bay of St. Catharine. In tli:;
which vessels of war most conunonly frequent, you will have the following beariii;;*:
North Point of St. Catharine's, N. Gy° 30' E. ; middle of the Fort of Santa Cruz, S, (,,
30' W. ; the Fortress St. Joseph, S. bb'^ 30' E. ; and the point of the Armacaco, oiiihe
continent, N. 1(>° 50' E.
The depth of the above anchorage is 30 feet ; and the bottom is mud of a greenish
cast, and holds well.
Here you enjoy almost always a perfectly tranquil sea, under shelter of the high Imvl,
with which it is surrounded, the only exi)osed part being to the N. eastward ; hut \V.
winds from this part are here very seldom dangerous.
Many places for obtaining water are in the vicinity of this anchorage : the best is aboc;
2 miles north of the Island Anhatomirim, upon the continent, which is supplied dayiiriil
night with excellent water, of which you can obtain an ample quantity. You mnvfe;
permission at a cheap rate to take fire-wood either on the continent or on one of the Isies
of Raton, and also for repairing your vessel, if needful. In short, the principal townei
the island, and the habitations near this anchorage, furnish, at moderate prices, allkindi
of refreshments, (tec. which the country produces. The provisions consist of bidluck
pigs, fowls, maize, rice, spirits, farinha, dried meats, sugar, coH'ee, all tropical fruits, k
The Island of St. Catharine is therefore one of the best jiorts at which a vessel canoe
supplied with necessaries, after or before a long voyage.
The anchorages of this island are sometimes plentifully supplied with fi'h : luitib|
success of the fishing depends upon a variety of causes, with which we are not welhc-
quainted. La Perouse found abundance of fish in November, but 1 was less forums:*
in the same month, and also from May to August. Most of the shores are besides coure; |
with the bones of whales, which it becomes difficult to avoid in hauling the seine.
When you provide yourself with fire-wood from the country, it is better to prefer ttf
young trees ; for the old trunks are commonly hollow, and filled with insects and the ep |
of reptiles, which are very often venomous, and might be highly dangerous on boanlvd:
vessel. It will therefore always be prudent to throw the wood into the sea before ju,
take it on board.
The winds most frequent in the Gulf of St. Catharine f(dlow the direction oftlicrlur-
nel, whether inwards or outwards, but these are seldom violent ; and the storms are:;G:|
dangerous to vessels which are well moored.
From March to September, that is during the time called winter, or the southern nica-
soon, tlie winds in the neighborhood of the islands blow generally from the south orS.
S. W. Sometimes they come on with very areat violence, and are accompanied »iili|
rain ; but these gales seldom last more than 48 hours. l\)wards the nionth of Oclokrl
the winds approach towards the E. and N. ; the six following months form the sM«i»iir,|
and are the hottest throughout the year. There are frequently storms, which coiiiel
from the N. and S. E. round by tlie west ; and if in this season the winds blow fiomtlnl
S. E. they are accom|)anied witli considerable rain : but in general, however, the grealejij
quantity of rain falls during the mouths of August and September, although even at ihiij
period many years have been exem|)t from it. The tides are regular at the aiichorasfT
and it may be remnrke(l 'hat as they blow into tlie north and south entrances of the sirjiil
at the same time, meeting at the anchorage near the town, they return in a siniihir manl
ner, with more or less velocity, according as they are accelerated or retarded by the preT
vailing winds.
* A name generally given to those rocks above water which have a round and dark appearanct V?
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
5()5
n point c;iI1p(1 Point
it's not contitiii iiny
v\) clear of the Mii.
:-l<H, and lie nr;irth(.
)assasf. lor y*>u ni;iv
pre are 2f) I'ei't waie'r
hich is the deepe.,!
Hicn you are within
essel ; by i^ecpini;!;,
shipH, to KHKItdiH,
oint, in advancing m
Islands there arenrn
these islands, in ih"
le in, and iJrincipallv
iiy great quantity i,i
Catharine. Tn ili:;
followin}.' bcariiij;*;
if Santa Cruz, S, ',;
he Armacaco.onilie
is mud of a greenish
>lter of thehighlati'li
i. eastward ; but ibe
[ige : the best is abou:
i;h is supplied day mi
mtity. You may tr,
tor on one of the Isiei
the principal to\vn«!
Jerate prices, all kimii
IS consist of bnliocks,
all tropical fruits. k
wliich a vessel canoe
rd with fii'h; luitil;
1 we are not weliac-
I was less foriiinali;
s are besides tou'rei
uling the seine.
better to prefer ik
1 insects and ibeep
sierous on boani yt,.:
ito the sea before vi.
direction oftbccliac'
lid the storms are no:
, or the southern men-
from the soutli or J.
are accompanied «itli|
the month of October
ilhs form the sumiud
y storms, which coiml
e winds blow frointii(l
, however, the greatest
althoimh even attlui
alar at the aiicborase;!
1 entrances of the strailj
turn in a simil'.tr ii*|
)r retarded b> the pre-
d and dark appearan».|
Tho romnion rai)idity of the current seldom exceeds three tenths of n mile an hour at
li:ilf-tide : and the rise of the water does not in general cNceed .'J feet ; but at the springs
the cinreiits run sometimes one mile and a half per hmir. and then the «aler rises 0 feet,
h e* lii'^h water at the above anchoraire at Kt minutes after two on full and change days.
if vdu should find yourself uniler any circumstances to re(|uire the protection of the
forts, this anehorape will not suit : you must in that ease draw nearer to one of the de-
fences adjacent: these are the forts ol .^aiita Cruz on the Island of Anhatoiiiiriui ; St.
Ji,se|)b, on the Island of St. Catharine; or the Fortress of IJaton, erected upon tho
iarj;est of the two islands of that name. Hut tlie shot from these fortitications do not
cri).>son any of these points etfectually, at least with the artillery with which tliey are at
present protected.
The ( Jovernor of the province resides in the town of \ossa Senhora do Desterro, situ-
ated about 4 leacues to the S. S. K. of the Kort of Santa Cm/. The passage to it being
ill a strait, well sheltered, is almost always easy for small vessels ; and the cormnunica-
tinii between all the points is quick. Your depth decreases from (> to '2 fathoms in going
from the above anchorasjes southward.
The position of the thig-statf of Fort Santa Cru/. on the Island .\nhatomiriin is 27°
l>.j' :i-2" S., and the loi^itude 48= 41' W. Toint Kapa, the north point of St. Catha-
rine's, is in latitude 'J7 ' 22' :U" S., and in longitude iti" 3i' 7" \V. The variation at
the anchorage in IHli), was 7= 29' 2(." K.
The Island of St. Catharine may be made indifierently upon all parts of tlie island,
and it rarely happens that either tiie winds or the cnrreiils are stron<^ enough to occa-
sion any dithculty in correcting your route; however, you ouiiht to prefer making
the southern part of the island in the south monsoon, and the northern part in the con-
trary monsoon.
^lany little isles are visible to the northward of St. Catharine's : the largest of these
is .\rvoredo. which has been already described. Its distance from I'oints (ianxos and
Zanibo on the continent, and from tht! Isle Fedra de (Jalle, is nearly the same as troni
the Point llapa in St. Catharine's; and you may pass through, in great sat'ety, all the
channtds formed between these islands and the continent. The depth varies from '24 to
12 fatlioms, on a bottom of mud and grey sand : you liave only to avoid the rocks and
breakers of San Pedro, situated rather less than 'MOO toises (about 3 miles) W. N. W.
fioiii .Arvoredo.
IJirectly to the northward of the entrance to the harbor of St. Catharine's, is the Bay of
Tijoucas, where there is good anchorage. Three leagues to the eastward of all the
islands, the depths are from 27 to 31 fathoms.
To the above we here add the remarks of Mr. liruce, who says, " There are no par-
ticular dangers in going to tlie atu-horage of Santa Cru/ ; and in entering you will carry
regular soundings, 13, 12, and *) fathoms, gradually shoaling towards St. C'atharine's
Island, until you get abreast of Fapagaios Island. It then shoalens abruptly from 7^ to
5 and 4^ fathoms. The best leading mark for a large ship to enter, wlien she is abreast
of the above island, is to haul over to the westward until Great and Little Katon Islands
are in one ; then steer for them until you are nearly abreast, or a mile from Santa Cruz,
when you may haul over to the eastward, until you get the southernmost Raton Island,
winch is tho smaller of the two, open of the great island. Keep it just open, and you
may anchor witliiu a mile of them in G or 7 fathoms, good holding ground, and well shel-
tered. In working out from this anciiorage, when you are standing to the westward, do
not stand into less than '> fathoms, for there is a bank of 4 fathoms on its eastern edge,
ami only 3', and .3 fathoms on its inner part. It lies rather less tiiaii 2 miles to the south-
ward of S itita CnvA. Standing to the eastward, you may bring the Island of Arvoredo
on witli I'oint Groca, (St. .lose,) and when you get nearly so far as the Points of Groca
and .Santa Cruz, you may stand into any depth you please. There is good anchorage
under .Santa (,'ruz, where shi|)s commonly tont'h for water; but the best anchorage is
with tiie small Island Katoncsjust o|)en to the eastward of the larger one, in 5^ fathoms.
The deeper water will be found on tlie eastern side ; but when off Santa Cru/ the west-
ern side will be the boldest. There is but a scanty supply of water inside of Santa Cruz,
which comes from a small rivulet close to the beach. Here you may fill your casks in
the boat, by baling with buckets ; but tliis supply in dry weather sometimes fails. Wood
may be either cut or jnirchased.''
The Island of Santa Catharine is of siuh height as to be discovered in fine weather
from 45 miles distant, at which distance there are 70 fathoms water, diminishing gradu-
ally towards the shore. Nearing it from the east, it appears witli high mountains and
deep valleys. Taking the whole together, the southern part ajipears higher than the
northern side. The Morro Camborello is a mountain which appears above eviiy other.
Vessels may go round this island with safety. The channel between the main laud af-
i fords good anchorage, but the best place to cast anchor is on the northern part.
18
5GG
HLUNTS AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Snntn Ciitlmrinr iiU'iinls llii- ht-st placf td rolit a vt'ssiil. 'I'liuro is an iiipxliaiisiili|,,
quantity ol uodd water, to In- i;(it witlimit any fxpcnsc ; fuel, and ^divisions nl' ^^\,f^
kind at a clicap rate — sncli as licet", jxirk, |Miiiliry, eoiii. sii'jac, iliied licel', aiack, \i\\,\
It is then tin; must C(inv'eni( nl place i'tir a sliip to sto)), in case ol want, and (or rciiiiiis
Wln-n takinf" on lioard wood tor I'ucl, it is necessary to take yonnij branches otdv, ■,\u,\
even to let tlioni lloat in the sea water, in order to destroy the numerous worms, as i|||,|f
efitjs are very dai\i;erous on hoard ol' a shi|(.
'I'lu' coast north of Santa Catliari ., < every where very liiizh. Woody monntim,
and deep valleys arc to he discovered a ouid. Kroni Santa Catharine to the HayotSin
Francisco, you meet several small isia n and rocks, and the last are the small (iam,
Islands, ',' miles distant (rom .loao Diaz, i'oint, (which point forms the eastern extrrti]|t\
of the River San Krancisco.) San Francisco Kiver is not very deep. Jts niouili ,
turned N. N. K., and emptii-s in a larj^e hay, in which you may anchor any where. '| i,,,
shore of this hay is tiat, the surronmlio!; land t)ot very high, hnt from place in phif,
small hillocks are to he seen, which render that place rennnkahle, |)articularly hv th,
chain ofa very hiijli mountain, to he seen nearly at ') niih s in (Ik; interior. Tlie Isluii
of San Sebastian is to be seen 15 miles distant. 'I'lie shores are very hold. The w||, ;..
island taken tofiethor seems of a trian^ruTar shape. The channel aOords jjood andiMi.
age, but is not to be followed in a straijjht line from end to (Mid. I'.anks connected wnk
the main land, existiriff nearly two tliirds of the wiiole extent, in the direction of N.to
S., iind conse(|ncntly, when comins; from the north, and starting from a point sitii;iii,|
one h.df mile from the Armacao. which is constructed at the head of (he island, it ism.
cessary to steer (irst live miles .S. K)'^ W., and from thence .S. 4.') ' W., until vouarpuiit,
This route is nearly H miles, and tlie depth o(' water from 10 to L'O falhoiiis. 'i'lie
greatest distance between the ojiposite lands, is nearly ."i miles, hut tw(» thirds nf ilmt
space is not safe for navinatiiii:. It is necessary to near the shore of San Sebasiinn K,.
and, at no less distance than from ten to twelve hundred yards. The southern eniiiiiKt
is more narrow. The natives say that very large ships may pass thiDiigii. San SpIjii?.
tian Harbor is one of the safest in the world, and offers the same facilities as Sania
Catharine for provisions of anv kind.
No. 1. FROM THE NORTH POINT OK ST. CATHARTXK TO f'APE SI-
MARTHA (iRAXI)K.»— The land of the Isle St. ("alharine, and the iiei<;hboriin;ri,ii^
tinent to Cape St. .Martha (iraiide, is very liiirli and woody. The highest nunimaiis
perceived from this island, are of the Cnbatao chain, covered with cloiids wlicn tin-
winds from the south ])revail, and clear in N. K. win«ls. At sea with a clear hori/dii,
these coasts can be easily |)erceived at PJ leagues distance. The soundings arc tin iv
.from 70 to 80 fathoms, with a muddy bottom. In approaching the coast, the soiuidiir,
'diminish gradually. At .3 leagues distance the soundings are still from ."7 to 40faiiionK
aud 20 to .'50 at 4 miles distance.
The whole coast is safe. 'J'he Emulation coasted if at .3 or 4 miles off, and passed be-
tween the Irmnas Islands and iMole(|ues do Sul, in 17 fathoms water. The onlv dnii
gers to he avoided are the islands and islets, whicli can be perceived ?, lea-'ucs oil, ;iiiii
round which there are lo fathoms water.
The usual anchorages are at Isle de CaMi|)exc, I*oint IMnheira and La Lairun;!.
The two first form shelters from southerly winds ; the third is only piacticiihjc I'lr
small vessels, drawing at the most liom 7 to H tect of water, bv reason ofa bar at tin- en-
trance of the (liagune, near the borders of the lake where the city of Laguiia is built.
The Island of St. Catharine is about 0 leagues long, and its greatest width ddPs not
(exceed 10 miles. It forms, with the continent, a strait in which vessels find excelji'iii
.anchorages.
The points to distinguish the two entranrps into the strait, arc the followinc •
THE NORTH ENTRANCE.— The Island of Arvoredo, which rises in tlieforraui
a sugar-loaf with two summits (seen at a distance.)
The Islet Badejo, wliich is in the form ofa tiller, and without vegetation.
THE SOUTH ENTRANCE.— Tlie islet of the (ireat I\Io!e.|ue do Sul, which re-
Bcmbles a steep beach when seen from the S. K., and for lliis reason is perfectly de-
lineated on the coa.st, which is woody.
The Isle Coral stretching from north to south, and round wlien perceived in tin*
direction. It is covered with trees, and is about 1 ', mile long.
If you wish to come to anchor north of St. Catharine's, where large ships oii;:iit to
anchor, you must follow the directions given by Admiral Roussin; but if you wish 10
come by the south bar to the city of Nostra Senhora do Desterro, the capital oftiicisl-
* From the surveys of Mr. Barral, (Commander of the French surveying brig thg Emulation,)
who was directed to continue the surveys of Baron Roussin.
BLUNT a AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
5G7
You inny gnvprn your-
;E to cape ST.
'11 perceived in tins
brig the Emulation,)
anil, vnu rnniint do if with a vessel drawing over \'.\ feel water.
scli'li'v tl>" rollowiiin dirrctions :
Sti'f r liir ( 'iijie (^mlirii ( 'ahitco, inavint; the two Rafone Tslnnds on your Inrhoard hand,
not ii'isiliiii a iiiiii" and a liidT distant ; whi'ii yi>ii liriti'^ ilie f<niali Uatfuie Island to hear
(.;ist J iiiih'^ distant, steer S. K. nnlil llii' two rocks ol iia|Mim^a do Noile are in a line
wiiii Cape (Jiiehra ('ahaeo. Von will then have on your starlioard hand a (hit roek, on
>virKl,i, 111 1"^^ water, tin re are hut I or ."> feet. As soon as yon open ihiH ( a[)e to tho
sdiiili lit the rocks ot' Itapilin^a do Norte, steer S. W. and pnx.eed on this coiirsp nntil
ili(- nicks hear N. N. \V.
Knmi thi'iice steer so as to pass within I or .'> caldes' length east of the i-fick of Cape
'I'ps llciirii|nes. a wooded cape, and inoie apparent than Cape (^iiehra Cahaeo. Then
sici'i direct lor the little strait of the city, taking; care to pass ;i or | ealdes' lenpth from
tlic islet of I'oint do Lial, From this islet you will enter the little strait defended hy
Fort Santa Anna on yonr left, and hy the hattcry of San .loao on your rij,'ht. N'ou will
find there a hotloin of IJ to IH fathoms, and you will perceive, in approaching, the Islet
(ifd.ito and the Islet of Vitihas, situated hefore the city. Vnu will leave the fnst on your
Liiliiianl, and cntne to an anchor in I't to •,'ll feet of water, tlie Island of (Jato liearini; hy
roiiijiass N. N. K., the Islet of N'irdias S. S. K., and the steeple of the Cathedral N. K.
Till' eity ot' Nostra Scnhora do Desterro is situated in •j?'' ,'ir)' •J.'i" .S. latitude, and iu
IH' ;!4' 'J" \V. loimitiide. The variation of tlie needle in ()c tidier, IR.'il, was 5"^ 2!)' N. E.
In coining from the nortli har to the eity, we freipu-ntly found hut 7 feet of water,
and a mnddy liottom ; hut the mud is at least .") feet deep, and a vessel lies easy ; at hiii;h
water the passat;"' is made. The Kiniilation, which drew 1.'! feet 4 inches, was ,1 days
coinini,' up to the city. She was dra;,'^' 1 througii the mud hy her anchors, when the
water was low or the tide weak.
In comins; in by tlie South Bar, you must have a fair wind, hish water, smooth sea,
anil fine weather, without wliich the currents may throw you on Fort Isle, or on the
Point dos Naufra^ados, distant from each otlier only -J^^d fathoms. The vessel should
draw less than ]■') l'"('t. The t'ollowin^ is the route to take: steer on a line drawn from
("iinil island to I>'ort Island, towards tiie last Island; when you are abreast of the two
Islands dos Papa£;ios, (they are on your left,) you will liave the three Irinaos Islands,
and the Moleipies do Sul on your ri'.'ht, and you will lirini; the Cape to the N. K. to
(i|)('iitlie passai^e ; arrived at this point, you will steer directly in the middle, until you
lind yiinrself south id' the Isle dos t'ardos, rciiiarkahle by a single tree, elevated on the
siiiiiiiiit. Steer tlien so as to pass K. of the Isle dos Cardos one or two cables' length
distant, and from tlienee continue until you 'ind yourself F. or W. witli the south point
of Kiiceadado Hrito, half a mile distant. Follow tiie coast of the continent, until you
come up to Cape Pes(|uciro Fundo, at 4 cables' leni^th distant. You will pass the vil-
lai;e rf b^nceadorlo Hrito, and at a little distance forward, is a group of houses or cabins
forming the little Village dos Cedros. On yonr right at a great distance, you will per-
ci'ive the village of Robeirao, situated on the Island of St. Catharine's, and almost be-
fore you Isle Largo.
Before arriving to this last, you will have to avoid a reef of rocks always under wafer.
You are on this reef when the towers of the cathedral in the city are W. of the Islo
Largo, and tliose of Cardos by the fort of the soutli bar.
From the Isle Largo steer N. until you are olf the Isle das Cascas, and then steer for
the steeples of the City, till you come to the anchorage indicated between Isles Gata
and Vinhas.
There are on the coast of the Island of St. Catharine, from Point Rupa. tlic north
extremity, the following islands and islets: — The North Moleques, the Islet Badejo, (the
outward one,) the two Aranhas Islands, Pavier Island, (of a middling height and with-
out trees.) Canipexe Island, the three Irmaos Islands, the South JNIoleques, three largo
white rocks which touch each other, (composing the (Jrand iMole(|ue.) On the coast
of the continent, commencing at the south bar, are the t'oUowing islands and islets : — .
Coral Island, S. E. of Point Piiiheira, .\raras Islands, (S. K. of Point Hitiiba,) Toco-
romi Islet, (an elevated and perpendicular rock,) S. E. of Araras Island, Lobos de la
Laguana, (S. VV. of Araras and Tocoromi.)
Ill passing along the coast, we (ind tlie following points and capes: — Point Pinheira,
Cape tluaratuba. Cape Cirui, Cape Uvidor, Point Viracjucra, Point Bituba, or Embi-
tuba, Morro-da-Barra, Morro-da-Fora, Cape Santa-Martha-Pequeno, and (,'ape Santa-
Martha-tirandc.
At Point Bituba commences the beach, behind which is a lake and the cities of Villa
Nova, Santa Anna, and La Laguna. This last is situated on the south side of the lake,
;itnne mile from the bar within, in latitude 28° 28' 23" S. and 48° 50' 17" W. longitude.
This position has been determined on shore.
5GS
BLUNT S AMEUICAN COAST PILOT.
CAPP: saint mart a (}KANf)K is romiirkahlf on arcount of spvpral Inr;;.
wliilt' rocks, siiiiiiiol on lhi> snniuiit ol' tlit- ('ii|)i', tvlncli ni:i) l)*> tiikcn at a (liK(;iti('(> for a
nuMiht'r oC liouM's. 'I'lic liititmlt- is art ' .'I')' S., iind iln- loni^itmlo 4rt ' 49' I'J ' \V. Tfn-
Viiriiilion of tin- nccilli! in Ndvcnihi-r, Irt.'U, was 7 ' 'JO' N. K.
N). J. I'lJOAl (AIM'; SANTA .M \ iri' \ (;i{ANI)K To RK) GRAND!', ;)f;
SAN I'K DKO. — Tins s|i;ic«' of lanil, iilKuii ')') ir;ii:nt'H in cxirMl. Iia.s a coast i'\tii mclv
low, liavini;, uf inti'ivais, little sand liiils ami liiaiiiliN's. 'I'lic land can liardlv 'iv |„|.
ceivcd in cItMr wcitliir, Inim tlir mast head, at the short distance of 7 or H mile , jin.l
tVoni the deck at .'( miles distance at the larlhest. It may lie divided into three p. ri^.
'J'he first rnns N. K. and S. \\'., trne ; "e « ill cull it the Meach das Torres. The ensi,
\y part is in -in" VJ' 4') " W. lonj:iln(le, and the .siiiialion ul' the westernmost part is m
4«J'^.'3^' 4:/' W. lonsitude.
The second ()art runs N. I K. and S. | W., true, and is called the Reach oC i'Vrnnm-
buco. The easterly part is in 'J') ' 5J' S. latitude, and 4'J^ M' l.') " \V. longitude
The thiid part runs N. K. and S. W., trne. and is known by llie name oC the Ilnnrh
of Destretto. The easternmost part is in .'!1 ' 12' S. latitude, and .50^ .'{')' 46 " W. lun-
gitude.
RKAC[1 O!'" TORRKS.— Wo will remark hern that a chain of mountains, diifurj
about 1') leaf;iies from the sea, stretches aloni; in the interior, and ends ahiuptly at Tor
re«, '2!i leai^nes frr>m ('apc.^sania Marta (traiide.
This hciich may he approached within .'! or 4 miles, and has been coasted, at tliissniill
distance, Dv the lOmiilation. It was impossible to find any remarkable points on ilm
route to form a trian^ulation. I conlined myself to fixing the position of the vcssp|,hv
frequent observations, and from thence deduced the <;oast, by estimatins; our distance.
We found .'JO fathoms of water, bottom <d' sand, miiil, and shells, 4 miles S. of ('ap«
Saint Marta (Jrandp, and from then( e to Torres, the soundinjjs <lecrease to .'j fitlidini,
ahnost to touching the sliorf? at this last place. You can judsje of the decrease of ilif
soundiiii^s, as the distance between the firsl soundings in 'M fathoms, and the soundings
at •') fathoms, was •,'•") lea'.iues.
RHACIf OF FIORNA.MIU'CO.— This is also more perpendicular than the fiw,
espei'ially in the latitudes of ;!i) and ;il d(>^rees. The Kmulation found 40 l"athoiii'< mi.
ter, with a bottom of sand, muil, and shells, 4 to o miles from the shore. She coasipti
alnnsT (or half a day.
Ill sieeriiii; o!f shore to the distance of 1.') leacjiies, the soundings aucinent progrF«-
sively to ').> fathoms, with u bottom of muddy sand: at a ureater distance, no b()tt(iiiiii
found with KM) fathoms; at 111 leaijues distance, the soumlinns are about 8.'! fatlioiiis,
RKACII OF DKSTRHTTO.— It terminates at Rio (irande de San Pedro. Ymi
will find 10 to 1.5 fathoms in coastinj; alonj;, at the distance of ;5 or 4 miles. The Emu-
lation coasted along 17 leagues at this short distance, over a bottom of sand. It is not
higher than the bent h of Fernambiico, but there are hills of sand and less vegrtiiiinn.
Twenty to 24 leagues S. K. of this beach we find ,3rt and .'!!) fathoms water, botioiiioi
mud anri sand, and in sailing towards the land, these soundings gradually decrease.
We will also remark that of the tiirei! beaches, that of Fernambuco, the easterninnst,
has more water towards the shore, and also at a distance; on the contrary, that of Des-
tretto lias the least.
RIO GRANDE DE SAN PEDRO.— The approach to Rio Grande de San Pcdrn,
is difficult on account of the want of elevation of the neighboring land, it being low for
a distance of Q.'i leagues north, and 40 leagues south. You should not attempt lliph,ir
except when the wind is N. E., the weather very fine, and appearing as though if wnnli
last several days, ^'ou should coast along the beach of Destretto at a small (listancf,
until you perceive the tower, wliich is situated at tlie north point of the bar, two mile*
inside. You must not, if possible to avoid it, get embayed or wind bound on ihe souih
side, because the sea breaks in the shoal water.
The bar is not practicable for vessels drawing more than 10 or 10.1 feet in oicliiian'
tides.
As soon as they perceive from the tower, a vessel, tliey hoist a red flag. It is the signal
given to the pilot boats to go to the bar and sound it out.
The vessel ought, on lier side, to show her draught of water by means of white, red,
and blue Hags, and a blue pendant.
inml, in .'54'^ 24'
BLUNT'8 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
669
I OR\NI)K DK
>Palms of water. Flair.
10 Wluif.
i(»i niiii!.
11 K.'.l.
, J W lute.
^'j ( I'.liir.
S IHn...
^- \ Wliii.'.
Palms of water, I'l''K'
,.,1 S \Vhiie.
^*i j K.d.
^■' j White.
Ill S IMue.
^"^^ iUe.l.
ij S Red.
^ ) niuo.
TliPsr sijjnuls arn rppeaffd by the tower ; an<I tlie pilot hoiit, nn perceivinn them,
inikiM :» ■ni^iial, il thurc is waicr enoiii^h mi thf^ Imr. It ihi- li;ir he iiiipassiiMi', the tow-
rr i'ikt's the leil (l;i:^, and llii- vi-ssi'l NhouM siti'r (i(l'; it' there he Hiinicii lit water, llio
Ihi.u hoi ••< ;• d i'4 ; il you oii.'lit to stei r lor it, it keeps the (lajj; in the saiiii' situation;
if it hovers it to* i«rd.t the ri^ht you must keep to the starboard ; if it lowers it tovvaid.i
ilip left, you must kee[) to the lari)oard.
The har rhaiiiies every year, diirina; the winter; and as soon as tlie pilots linve well
iKcertaincd the ehaniiel, the iirt-sidcnt of the proviiiie, notifies the goveMimeiil at Kio
JiMi'iro. it sometimes happens, that it is iiii])ossible to cios<s the bar lur a long lime, ut-
icr a great S. K. gale.
The j;eos;rap)iiral position of tlie tower is .'iQ'' 07' 20" ooiitli latitude, and Ti-jo H' 45"
W. lon^itude. The variation of the needle, in the month of November, 1~;J1, was 8"
No. ^. FROM RIO GRANDK I)K S\N I'KDRO, TO CAPK .SAINT iSIARY.
—In this part of the coast the soundiniis are very shallow and variable, you are there-
fire obliijed to keep olf. The Kmulalion, in \V:> ,'{()' [W f>. latitude and 52' 1')' Ab"
W. ioiii^iiude, passed at onee from 22 fathoms, sand and i.iud, to IH falhonis, sand and
shells; she soon ascertained the edcrps of a great hank extending from the coast 7 or ti
ieiimies and exfcndinn to the ('astillos.
The Castillos are black and searped rocks, situated at a very small distance from the
ianii, in .14° 24' .S. latitude and 5;i ' 40' 4.'> ' W. longitude. At the north is found nn
iiiiiiiense bay, in which you find shelter from .S. W. winds, but you should quit this an-
chorage as soon r.s the winds vary to the K. and the N. K.
.South of the Castillos is Rahia Falsa, of which we shall s|)eak liereaftcr.
Some time befoic arrivine; at these rocks, if you coast alonjj the lai.d 11 to 1? miles in
roiiiiii!: from the N. the soundiiis;s show 11 to 12 fathoms water, with a bottom of sand;
when shells are mixed with sand, you are still on the (ireat Bank, and you steer a little
more to the larboard ; you will then perceive two iiills having the form of teats, the only
ones which can be seen to (,'ape .Saint IMarv.
.N'y. 4. WIND.-^, TiDHS AND Cl'llkKNTS.— At the Island of St, Catharines,
the prevailing winds are N. F., N. W., S. W., and S. F. The winds from N. \V, bring
fine weather, and the winds from .S. F. in the winter, are extremely rainy.
The tides are not regular in the strait until the approach of a new and full moon.
The dilVerence between high and low water, is there, scarce above 5 feet.
The sea rises in the .S. basin from the .S. to the N. and it rises in the N. basin from
the N. to the S. in such a manner, that the waters meeting from two sides accumulate
towards the city, built near the little strait, wliich serves as a limit for the whole strait,
of which the two basins are composed. It falls also in a contrary manner from which
it rises.
About the beach of Rio Orande de San Pedro, the winds from tlie S. W., N. E., N.
^W., and .S. F., are e(]ually the most frequent, and those from ilie S. F the most violent
Und dangerous. A vessel surprised by a sudden s(|uall from this (]uarter, on the coast,
(cannot getaway from it. By a wind from the K. S. F. the Fmiilation, under top-gal-
Slant sails, would have been obliged to run on shore on the beach of Torres, if the wind
ihad lasted several hours ; the sea broke in 30 fathoms of water, and the vessel ran great
[risk of being dismasted by reason of the great shocks that she ex])erienced. During
jthese winds from the S. F., the sea runs extraordinarily high, and the currents run
jrapidly towards the shore.
The winds blow usually from the S. F. after having blown from the .S. W. These
M winds do not usually blow until after the N. E. wiiid^ have varied to N. W. and VV.
IN. W.
RIO DE LA PLATA. — The River Plate is 55 leagues wide at its mouth, and runs
nearly W. N. W. and F. S. E., true. It is formed by the waters of the Uruguay and
the Parana, two great rivers which receive the waters of an immense number of other
M
* The palm is !>i English inches.
T4
570
BLUNT's AMKRICAN COAST PH.OT.
rivers, anuirii; ulilcli in;iy hv. moiitioniMl the I';ir;iguay, tin; l'ic()liiia);i, and Kio fi'rand
de(
iirtiha.
'I'lie capes xrliirh mark the fiilraiicf arc llii>sc (ilSaiiil .Maria ami Si. Antony ; liif fi|,,|
is situated on the mirliiera side, and the second i»n llie soiilhern.
Tlie cua.st of till' niirtin'rii side, cinnpriscd hctwi^en Sami .Maria and tlic iiuuitli (iltli,
Urui;
iinv, i.s ill t,'cni'ral lii^li
le coast on ilic soiiilicrn side, coiniirised hetweon Cape St. .\ntony and tlic r
Tl
)ftlie I'arana, is on ll
ic conlrary very 1(
)\V
under tlie name ol' I'ampas, are t'oiind.
it is on this side those iinmcnse |)laiiH |.
■mil
'J'lie river sensihly diminislies in width iVoiii its iiioutii to the confluence of the Rivru
Urnnnay and I'araii.i. It may he divided in two jiarts. nearly eijual in leii:;th
Tl
le Inst extends iVom ( "ape
iiit .^laria .uid Saint ,\iiliiiiv on the iiortli, to the |{
of Santa Lucia, and to the south lo Point das I'ledras dc San liorromhoii * tlie wati i i
the river is there iirackish. Tiie second part extends Vom these last points to the rui..
fliience of the l'riii,'iiay and the Parana; the water is here i;enerally sweet.
The demh id'tl
ater in tlio Kiver Plate increases in i:oin^ (Vom this coiiflin
the •
ofsol't saiiil-stiinc. to the meridian of .Monte \'ideo ; Irom this place it is ofon/v
and the lioltoni hctween the liaiiLs is generally composed of miid, and lie.piri
sand only, sainl and shells, and sand and gravel, as I'ar as ("ape St. .Vnthony, e\ce|
wards the north side, and towards Hnsenada-de-San-l5orniinlion, where it is for
ll III
iiu'd (i|
mud. The south side, from near the I\iv<'r .Salado to near thi' liorders tiir- Knsenad.ni
Barraixan has a horder of sol'i sand-stone two to tliriM! leagues wide, on which it isvirv
shallow.
Wo may consider the hodom of sand, sand and sliells, and sand and fjravel, sitnaihl
enst of the ineri<lian of .Mcmte Video, as forininc; an innnenso bank, the highest paitni
which is known liy the name of the Kn^lish Uank.
The hottom of hard sand found west of the same meridian, forms sundry banks, oc
which the <le|)th of water is from one '.o one and a halt talhoiiis at the most.
Three cities are hnilf on the north ii ink ; the lirst, alter Icavin.^ Cape St. iMary. isMv
donado, the second, Monte Video, and the third the colony of San .Sacramento: ilin
belong to t'..e Ri'puhlic, of l?aiida Orient, il <>{' rnn.'uay. the chief of which i.« .Mdiii-
Vid
Kleo ;
rom
.Monte \'ideo to the colonv o(" I'm 'uav is I' leairues.
r : I! !(
The city of IJueiios .\yrcs is the only one situated on tile south sid(> of the rive
the chief city of the I'liited Provinces of La IMata ; the distance to Parana is 'i lea:;ii(<,
From Ca|)e St. Maria to Maldonado, is (> leagues; from Maldonado to Monte \'iilei).
21 leagues ; and from this last .ity to Colonia, 'i8 leagues; tlio distance from Cape Sin;
Maria to the I'ruL'iiav is tl
111.-
.1 leairues.
From (,'ape St. Anthony to IJiieiios Ayres. is I.'i leagues, and from llience to V;\niv.
60 leagues ; the south side of the river is thus -J.') leagues less in extent than the north miIi
On the north side there are many islands, and a iini'.iber of rocks, above and iiihIh
water: there are no \e on tin' opposite side as far as Hiienos Ay res. f These islam!- n'
Ijohos, ri miles S. S. H. ol' .Maldonado, (iorili, in the Hay o( Maldonado {''lores, 1. ■
Monte Video, l.')mil( ■; ,*^aii (iahriel, Karallon, l,,op('/, liefore Cidonia and lloriiu-. ,
and () miles west ol' this city. The rocks are all a short distance from the shore.
No. ri. li.VNlvS. — The (irst wc meet witli comiiiL; from the sea, is the Knglisli nmil,
which breaks in .').')' 1 1' S. latitude, and .O.j^ .51' 4.3 " W. longitude ; it is 11 miles soiiihn!
the Island of Klores.
The second is Archimedes r.ank, on whicli :m Knglisli frigate of this name toiiriF;
It is very small, and is situated S. | K. (true) from .Monte \'ideo, at I') miles distance.
The third is New i?ank, formed within a few years, very probably by the sand ilriti'
frotn the little bank of Orti/,. It is situated on the southern side of the river. i
The fourth and the largest of the whole is the ( )rli/. ; its eastern extremity is only hnlf? I
mile wide, and is north of .New I'ank : i.'s western extremity stretches to within a veiy slicrt
distance of (Jolonia ; it is nearer the noiih »han the south side of the river. Its grcaiesi
width is 11 to 12 miles.
» The Point das Picrlrns de .Snn Borronilmn forms wiili < 'iijie St. Anioiiy n prent Imy, cnllpiiiiiM
Ensenada of San Horioiiibon, in which two smajl rivers (li.sciiarsri' tln'iiisclvrs, the .'■^nii llorrmnl' »
and the Salndo: this last is the Inrjiest, and diuiiii,'' the war lielwciMi Miieiios .\yics aii'l Mrazil, >r!i'! |
as a refuse to a prent niiinlier of jirivnt' eis ; it is dilliruli to disrovi>r its inoiiiji ; tlic rojlowincli'™-
ever serves as an iiuliciition of ii. The sniilli Bi<le is covered with hushes which leriiiiimie ni !«'
brick towers used formerly lis liiiie kilns ; and a* the N. part of the entraiicc are two luniks nf snii:) |
land, on which two haitcries arc huilt.
tThe islands sitiinled at the Point of Sanlineo of I'nsrnnda hring very small we do not nicnMii
J The American Corvette Vandaha touched on this new bank.
,);i, and Kio Cirande
it. Aiitdiiy ; «h(! first
ml till- iiumtli (il the
)l()iiy ;ui(l tlu' I , .,iili
miiiiisc plains Uiidwi
(liKMici: ol' tlu? RivoK
I in l«'n:itli.
ic iinrtti. In llic lVi\nr
•imilioii * tilt" watii .,|
1st points to the riii;.
ly sUt'Ot.
iin this roi)(Uu'nrpin
I" mini, and In-ipiciiilv
ICC it is of oo/y ^;lll(!,
. Anthony, csccpi in.
whi'if it is l\)iiiii(l i;
dors the KnsrMiadiiii"
c, (Ml which it is vrry
id and gravel, sitiiiitn|
ik, the liii^hi'st paiini
iiiis snn(h'v banks. (,i;
[ tlir most.
Cape St. iMary. isM '
"^an Sacranifiito ; tiit\
iot' of which is Monif
s.
sidf of the rivpr; iii<
to Parana is •'> ic;i!;i;(v
ia(h) to Monlc \ iili i.
ante iVuin Cape Snin;
)m thoncc to I'mni'.
Ill llian the ikmiIimiI'
lis, ahovc and iifi'l"
■f '■JMit'sc islaiiil> .If
Idoiiado Flori's. I, '
'olonia and Umiiov
(Voni tlif shore,
is the Knsilisli I!;iii'k,
it is 11 iiiik's sDUili"!
of this name tourhoi
at 1') niilos distaiicr.
)|y hy the sand dnlV:
iftlic river. i
nxtreniiiy is only h;ilM
>s to within a very slioi
the river. It.s grcaWi 1
nv n grcnt bnv, cnlWiM
•Ives, the Snn l?orritinl'"ii |
Avi-es and Urazil. ■"""■^
loulh; Ilie tullowin^li™-
■s wliieii lerininni'.' at i''
■c nrc two bunks 111 ff>"' ll
small wG do not mcn'i;..
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
571
The lil'th is ihe Thico Dank, a daii'jprons hank, hy reason of the irrpgnlavity of the
souiiilinu^ on the eni;
lie si
xth and hevenlli are llie I'.aii
It is plaeeil lietween liie Ortiz liank and the south side.
ol .Saiitiauo
mil of i^ara, and the eii^htli, ninth
,iii(
lentil, ihosi- of ("nidad. < 'aincroncs, and the i'alnias, all situated on the same side,
«'\cepi the i'ahiias, wliiili is heiwei-n the eonlhi' iiec of the rriinuay and Parana,
on
thti
\\:\\ Ironi
linenos Avrcs to ("ohinia.
jn uoin^ to iMaldonado, tin
hank to fear, hiit in ;;oiiii; to Monte \'idc(), yoi
St avoid I']n!:lish and Architniiles Hank: in j^oin<; to Hiienos .\yres yon have to pass
r< all the hanks. Vessels do not <:enrrally lake a pilot in going to Monte Video, hut tlicy
nnelv (im
it to talic one in piin;i to Hiienos Avre-
The pilots « ho conduct M'ssels lo Miienos Avres, live at .'vlonte \'ideo or Point Tndio.
1 liev Keep nniler sail, or at anclior near tlie coast in srliooners or curers.
The i50veriiinenl of the I'nited Prininces of La Plata, caused to he placed s.-veral
veais since, Inr.'ie bm)ys nn the edj^es of most of the Hanks, Iml had weather and the
slrniiL' enrrnils have caused iheiu to disapjiear. The aoveinmout of Mont(> \'iile i, jiave
creeled a lo.ver with a i.'ood li::iil. on the Isle of l'"loies, <devated ahout I'JO (eel above
the lc\e! of the sea : il can he perceived in the iiii^hl at l.j or 10 miles distamre, and serves
III avoid the f'ti^lish and Arcliiimdes I'anks.
.\i
WINDS, Tli)i:s ANI)( riniKNTS.— Al the enlrance of the river, ;ind at
iMontc Video, the prevailiii<;; \\iiids r.re the N. E. and 8. W
At I'uenos Avres and at ("olonia. thev are N., N. W., S
!•:
aiK
I S. W
I)
nniii; snn
liner, and in line weather, ll
e w 11
ids blow ill the w lude river, with conside-
riilile rei;iilariiy, Iroiii the K. to the S. K. from ten o'clock in the morning, until sunset.
Ill the ni^lit the winds varv to tlie north.
Tl
le winds Iron
s. \v
am
I s. s. w
illOW
n alioiif the I'ivei Plate, hv the name
ot'lliP Pamperos, from the Pam|)os from which thev coiiii'.
The Pain])ero lii^hls iin the sky, ihe same as the N. W. winds in Provence, and tlie
N. K. (in the coasts of Hrilanv ; it blows nsnallv afier rain, (u- when the wind has varied
lioiii the N. to the ,\. W. ai.i
dav. OflenliniPs ii comes nH at once with a stroi
1 lo W. .\. \V. and in summer after a calm and very liot
iL' wind from the N. K. when the skv
is covered with clouds ; the explosimi is then sudden anil veiv dangerous; and it is best
lor vessids in till* P.iver Plate, or the cnira
lo ijet under easy s
lil. as
soon as there
are in
y indications of a Pampero.* The barometer falls previ(Uis to tlie i .;.npcro and
rises afterwards.
As il
rains ofiener in winter than in summer, this wind is more frP(|UPnlIy in iIip win
tcr, anil lasts each lime from two to three ilavs.
n siinimer
b
ilows with more vio
lence
•,ni;i ceases sooner: il is then called in the eminlry tln' Turbonado CTormeiif.)
When the weather is fair, and the wind lii;ht and constant, the lidos on this poast are
ri'iula'-; on the contrary, in bad weather and strnnir winds, the tides are irregular, and
IbviM cnrrents which oftentimes inn from I to 5 miles per liour.t
At I'neiios Avres the sea is lii;rli with tl
10 Willi
Is t'roiii the .S. K. and low with the
viiiils N. W
S. W. At iMonie \'ideo and the remainder of iIk; northern side, the
liver rises with the winds from the S. !•'. and S. W. and falls with those from the north.
The ilitforenee between hi^h and 'ow water on the borders of the river, rartdv exceeds 4
or .') feet ; bill in siro,/)^ <.'al(>s from the S. W. thev sonietiiiips rise 10 feet.
Ill the moiiihs of .March, April, and a jiarl of Mav. the l!iver Plate is higher than in
the other months of the year, opcasioned by the rivers Parana and! ■rn!:uay. It then
liriiiiTsdowii trees and shrubs, whicli form littb^ islands of verdure suflicieiiily romarkahle.
This is the epoch of the finest spasoii in this iiupresling part of South .Xmoripa, of mode-
rate liiee/.es and a mean temperaluro.
n
iiriii
'^ the spring, summer and winter, the winds
are very slroni;. and the tompeiatiire of ihe atmosphere very variablo
No. H. .\N('II( )l\ A(i KS. — Wherever tli(> lead shows mud. yon ean anchor, having
pare however to anchor far enou'zh from the banks, not to be driven on them.
With the winds from the S. the anchorages on the south side are best, with the winds
Iroiii the N. the opjiosito side is iirefeialde.
r arge vessels and frigates may go up to ATonto Video ; vps-els drawing less than 17
fepi
'PI, may go tip to Muoiios .\yres and the Ifiniios Islands.
The anchorages which s'k Iter f'om tlie N. W., N. i;.. 1'., and S. V.. are Maldona-
• The Hiunlaiion, in the niirbf ol die lil si of Aiiu'iisi, i'-'HH, !',") Icnirnes oiri'roin Lulms Islnmi, un-
der (oresiiil ami tiipsails, was sorprlscil by ii Painperi). wbicli in two miniitps cnrried nwnv the top-
sails mill forced Iinr lo scud under bare poles ; n brig was upset in ilie river nnd nn euorni'iis whale
ciiRliiii siiore.
t At the iM'ginninfrof Mareli. 18!M, the Einidntion explored the soiitli side ; she could not Btem the
ciirrrnt from the i\^ W. in sitdit of Point ilus ririlras.(b .San.Borroinboii, nlthoueh she had a fair
wind and all cail set, and a ii.ur knot breeze, bltu v\ us ubhged to come lo anchor twice.
tl;
PI
m
572
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
do, Monte Video and Homos. Those which give slielter from S. W. winds, are Knsf.
nada de J'arag.nn and Jhu-nos Ayres.
Small vessels may anchor at ("ape St. Mary, at tlie entrance of the TTiver Santa Ln.
cia and at (.'ujonia on the north side; at Ilio Salado within Knsenada de iianigan aiidai
Riachnelo near IJuenos Ayres on the south siile.
You can come to anchor at iMaldonado in (> to H falhouis of water; at iMonte Video,
in the road in 5 to 6 laiiioms, in the port in 3 to 3.) ; at the Ifornos Islands in 3', 104;
fathoms : in the road of Eiisenada de B.iraean in about 5 fathoms ; at Huenos Ajres in
the road in 3\ to 4\ fatiioms ; and near the city in 2 to 3 fathoms.
In the anchorages on tlie north side, you should moor for the S. W. winds ; in the
others for the S. E. winds.
Of all these jjoris and roads, the best holding ground is at Maldonado. It is nuiclifd.
vered with sand. In the other places the bottom is of soft n .'d, through which tlic n.
chors dra;,' in sudden (laws of wind. During the I'amperos, the Ilcmos Islaiitis i.n ,
an exceilijut anchorage, because the sea is broken olf l)y the I'alnias JJank. 'i'his Ik
ancliorage was not known when the Emulation was there in Sp()ienibcr. 1H30.
No. <J. DEPTH OF THE Rl\ ER AT THE ENTRANCE AND OFE Tilf,
MOUTH. — When in the parallel of Cape St. Mary, and in the longitude of 5J^ h 4'
which is that of Kio (irande de San Pedro, the soundiniis at l)ie distance of 33 \i':\zi.,.
from the cape aic ')() f.ithoms, mud; at 'J5 leacues the bottom is sand or iiiiid iiiiM.i
with shells, and show 40 to "JH fathoms only. In going towards the cape, the kouihIi;,.,
decrease irregularly.
On the parallel of Castillos, at 33 leagues di>tance, the depth of the water is of fa-
thoms, and the prevailing quality of the bottom is sandy.
In sailinL' on parallels farther south than Cape St. Mary, you will find less uatprin
the sam :' longitude, and the depth diminishes more regularly. At 15 leagues fromt't|)'
St. Antonio, the de|)th is 17 fathoms, bottom of sand. At 28 leagues S. E. from lir
same cape, you will have 4.3 fathoms, same quality of bottom. North of the cape, and;
leagues from the land, you will have 7 to H fathoms water.
If you shai)e your course for the English iJank, that is to say, in the parallel nt ,"y
ir S., you will fmd (> to 7 fathoms, and a sandy bottom, .3 leagues before arriving ilure
You are then nearly in 55'^ 3'J' 45" longitude.
On the parallel of 35' 30', when you read) the longitude of 50° 39' 45" W., tiie Ui-
torn is of line sand, and the depth H fathoms. On the parallel of 35° 35', and tuiLc
parallel of Cape St. Antonio, the bottom is sand mixed witli shells and gravel.
In the latitude ol 35° 20' S., when you have passed the longitude of the English Bant,
the soundings do not reach above 8 fithoms ; on the parallel of 3f)° it reaches to 11 au
12 fathoms; west of the bank, on the same parallel, there are 5 and (> fathoms (inly.
At 20 leagues distance from the entrance to the river, the water loses its bint: (ulir
and becomes green, tinged with yellow.
In coasting along the nortli side, in sijlit or near the land, you will have mud s.(iiini;-
ings; running on a parallel greater than that of Lobos Island, you have no sdiiiiiiiii:^
of mud except in the neighborhood of the meridian of this island ; at two miles ,Miuti; |
you have 10 and 17 fathoms of water; and at (1 miles, 2.3 and 24 fathoms, n)U(l Ikiikmi.
In going from Lobos to Monte Video, the dejjths diininish grndually, but inei^iiliuK
In the passages ("ornu'<l by the hard sand banks, situati'd between Alonte X'idto aii
Buenos Avres, there ;ire from '.i\in 5'; fathoms of wafer.
No. 10.' POINTS TO KECOtiNIZE IN .M.\K1N(; THE LAND.— Tlieie art
tliree. Cape St. Marv, Lobos Island, and Cape St. Antonio.
CAPE ST. ,^I ARV.— Its position determined on shore, is found to be 34^^ 3')' 1' S
lat., and 54° ')' 45" \V. lonciiude. The variation of the needle, in the month of l'ol>
ruarv, lH;n, was 10° 7' N. E.
Alllidimh of but little tdevation, the cape is distinauished by the nei^ihborliond oliifo
little islands named 'J'mia and Palonna, distant from each other otdy 2()() feel, liif
separation forms a passage for small vessels drawing less than 10 feet water, and is ilif
entrance of a bay which is sheltered by the cape and the two islands. You find there
from 11 to 1'.' feet of water. It ^^ill contain peihaps 7 or H vessels.
The Llaiid of Tuna, the smallest and the nearest to the ca|)e, is covered with the cac-
tus, wliich is peculiar to a sandy coast, ^'ou wilr remark also iti comiiii: from IVoiiimx
a hirge sand hill with a double |)eak, S. M'. of the cape, near a very (lat bearli. Al llif
north, on a hill, is sen an establishinent consistini; of a i:nmp of houses called an I-
tancia, for laising «'attle. Nearto these houses are many trees, and all about llieni iiiiny
enclosures.
The coast to tlie nortli forms a larire bay, 1 1 miles in CNteiit, with a point sminniHl''il
by the Palniarone and Castillos Isl inds. The island of I'almarone, the nearest tu the
point, iti verdant : the Castillos are barren. Otherwise, this resemblance to Cape !Jt.
■*iiM^K..:.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
573
W. winds, are Ens?.
lie ITivpr Sant;i Ln-
la de Hariigaii aiidai
er; at Monte Video,
)8 Islands in .'}' id 41
at IJucnos Ayres i;;
S. \V. winds ; in ih?
of the water is ot iV
will find Irs.s Matpr;n
15 leat;ues fromC'i)-
lyups S. K. iVdiii il/
)rth of the capt, and;
in tlio parallel (il':i;
; before arrivinj; llure.
and iiravel.
of the Knslisli Hack,
it reaches to 11 ai.c
(1 (1 fathoms (inly.
loses its bluu (iilit
will have iniid '■(ninii-
u have no s(niiiiiiii;i
It two inilt's siiii'i.
iilioiiis, nnid liiiiKiii.
dly, but irreyiilail)
n Clonic Video au
I. AND.— There at*
id tobenr ;i')' 1 ^.
n the month of Fcl-
nei};liborhond oi'w
only 'J(i(l feet. The
Tect 'water, and is i!:f
Ids. Vuu find lliere
•overed with the cac-
1 1 mini: iVoni front s( a,
!at beach. At ll>e
Ihonses called an K>-
'all about themmuny
I) a point snrrniimlfii
le. the nearest to llie
liblance tu Cape 5ft.
Marv has caused soinefimes one to be taken for the other, ami has caused many ship-
wrecks.
It has been named, for this reason. False I'av.
At two miles east of the ('astilbis, are Inniid Id lathoms of water, bottom of sand.
From tliese islands to ('a|)e .St. Mary, at the same distance, are found ] 1 to 14 fathoms,
same kind of bottom. At the east of the cape, 11 latlionis. a bottom of sand, or sand
and i;ravel ; S. at .'{ miles distance, -JO lathoms, sand ; and S. \V., I'rom 1h to ii'J fathoms^
bottDin of mini.
ISLKOK I.OiU).^.— It is situated in .'!.■) O'.JV .'^. lat iH in .')!' ',i' 15" W. lonp.,
and is oidy a niile in extent. It can be seen 15 to lb iiubs oil. It is inliabited bv a
C>'
avo
en( number of seals, fiimi whuh it takes its name. 'J'he eastern pait outiht to be
idi'd, by reason of a chain of reefs which extends ;j miles oil'.
'i'liis island is without ve;:etatioii. liaise vessels pass easily in the strait between it
and the m.iin land, and find there 17 fathoms of water.
Its ])(isition has been deieruiincd fnuii the sea and the island of (ioriti by trianguhi-
tiun.
The variation of the needle is the same as at Cape St. ^Alary.
CAl'K 8T. A.NT()M(). — We coiTiprehend under this name a hujie collection of
little mountains, or hills composed of sand, which siretc li to the E. and S., and which
are terminated in tbe west by a low coast covered with biisbes.
Its position, deieiiuincfl at the anehoraue, is in .Ib"^ ]•)' .3b" S. lat., .Ob" 47' 15" W,
DIIJ.
The variation of the needl(> was in the
inon
th of December, 1h;!1, l.r- .^O' N. E
The point determined is that where the se|)aralion takes plact; between the .«and liills and
the low verdant coast.
This cape is surrounded by a bank of sand which breaks oftentimes at a considerable
distance from the land, extendiui: N. and E., and ou-rht to be I'arefnlly avoided.
No. 11. NAV'.OA'J'ION AT THE EN'J'KANCE AND IN THE RIVER
rL.\TK, — The description that we have ijiven of this river, naturally indicates tiie pre-
cantions necessary to take to ascertain the points of the entrance. \\'e think it jirefera-
blet(» make tlie north side, as the land is the highest.
.^ome n viijators pretemi that they can always jud};e of their situation, out of si^;hl of
land, by the depth of water and the cpiality of the s(iiin(!ins;s.
We do not partake of their security in this respect, because in exploring the south
coast of iJra/.il, in l.'S.il, we Imind s()iin(lin!:s on all the coast, nearly of the same depth
and quality as towards the entrance of the river. J{esides the (Ireat Rank, whose posi-
tion we have determined between the Rio (irande de San I'edrn and the (,'astillos, luis
the same sort of soundings we meet with west of ('ape St. Mary, and causes by this re-
;Seail)laiice numerous errors.
\\'>
e advise mariners hoi
iiid In the Fvivcr I'l.ite. to be well assured of their position by
frpi|iient observations of latitude and loniiitiKle, and to lake them with the greatest jire-
caiition. as the currents may dec<>ive them between tlie liours of observation.
If the winds are well established from the N E., makinsi the land about Cape Mary
lias ill
lis advanlaiie
that
von (
an rec(n;iii/.e a lari;er exteni of land before eiiterint: the ri-
ver. lUit ill all other circumstances Lolins Isbmil has this a(lvanta<;e, that it offers more
fliancs of success, by the position of tin,' island, to aMiid beiny wind-'ound on the noith
coast, and to beat up with creater advantaiie. Makinj^ the land at Cape St. Antonio,
should be considered th
St diir
icnlt and (lansieroiis.
No. IJ. CoriJSE To MONTE VI DKO.— I'.einirsnuth of Eobos Island, at 2 or 3
null's distance, ilie direct course for {"lores Jsland is
W. 7^ N., t
rue, or
W. J S. bv
compass. Rut we know the River Plate is subject to very variable currents; and
you sliould steer in such a manner as to a|)proach the north border of tiie river, rather
jthaii the s.-mth side, on accmint of the En'ilish 15 ink. ^ on will perceive in ^dod sea-
Ison tlie Tower of .Maldoiiado, and the elev.ited land to the east. In sailing,' aloni: at a
Idist
Inf which, to the riiiht and the b'fi. are sand bcaclu
nice of 5 or (> miles, you will distinmiish a point formed of bla( k rocks, on both sides
This is RIack Point, or Point
s on
jNcjijro, situated 14 miles from Maldonado, near a vast sandy liiiy. The lii<;li land
jthe city side are remarkable for a meat while band, which sliows itself on both siiles of
)!\Vliale Point."
When Point Neijro bears N. (i miles distant, the Island of Flores bears W. 7'' N.,
true. 'Plie Island of Eobos is then on the same bearim: about .'i7 miles distant, and tiio
f^eouiidi
iiijsare from Ki In 14 lathoms, with a ninddv botio
The land N. of Point Neixr
l^alnnj;
!Xro makes a deep iicinl
am
1 1
m.
lecomes lower.
In stf
^riiiEf
hit.,
n si^ht of land, vou can distiiiL'uish the hills of Alilar, situated in ;i4 47' 15" S,
and
65° 31' 8" W. long. When tliey bear by eoinpass N. by W., and the nearest hill
* Whale Point is the wr«!t extremity of the bnv of Mnhlonndo, It is verv ncnr the fame pni-nllel
^01 the tower of the city, alihoui,h the fc^panish and Kii^Hisli churls place it W. S. W. of the tower.
574
blunt's amkrican coas'^ pilot.
b 'iii-s K. \')^ X., ymi ;iro llicn 27 miles dislniit from Flon-s. TIio souih1Iii!,'s iirc il,,,,,
l,' t(t l;; liiilioms, Ixittoiii (iC 11111(1, :ui(l slill on the simif rliiiinl) witli holxiy. 'I'lic 1||||<
of Aliliir iiir isoliilcd, ;\ii<l rcscmlilf two (cuts.
Ill niuiiiii;: W. .', S. hy cominiss, von liiivc to run only I 'J to 111 iiiili-s to pctccivc I'lun,
iiiiist-lnMil till' tower hiiilt on h'lores. This isliiml iit iir.st reseniMes three ishmd.s, the,)
the lower |);irt yriidnnlly shows itseIC, nnd ;il llie distiincp oir> miles, if the sea is low. i.l,,,
wliide islniid is .seen. Jl' the sea is lii^h, tli:' island at the siime ili-'ance appears in tud
part;;.
hit he niijlit, as soon as yon perreive tlie lialit on the tower, steer direct until wiiin,
4 miles distRiiee.
From iheiice keeji on the larlioard side, leaving the i.siand on the starboard hand, ai,:
passiiijr wiiliin 'i or ■') miles south of it.*
J?etween Klores and Kni^lish IJank, the bottom is mud, and the deptli of water 7 in-
Cathoms.
From I'lores to Monte Video is !(> miles in a straight lino, and you must steer ii
compass W. by .'>.; avoid I'oint Mrava.
Point Mrava, situated east oC the eiiy, is formed by a long line of rocks 8trotcliii);.ri,:;
from the land, ^'oll iiiiisf give a good berth to a rock delaelied fri.;>i the rest. .\ 1;,, ,
while house is built N'. of Hiava. and another, a smaller one, is situated towards llieiriv
tile (d'the rocks. In ipiiitiiig Flores you can, at the same time, if the realher bo cifir,
perceive the Orro or hill of Monte Video, and soon after the steeples of the Caiiie-
lira I in the city.
If the wind is from the N. or N. E., you ought to steer in the night, W. Iiy S, ;
doui)le I'oint Hrava. Hut if the wind is from S. K. or K. 8. K., it is prudent to s.-
W. .S. W. \'ou should, by way of precaution, in either case, bring the light ofKlnri
to bear K. by N., or K. N. K., to be assurcil that the currents have not set you tiiwur,
I'oiiit JJr.iva.
When the hill of Moiiie Video bears N. AV. bv compass, the point is doubled, iiuil w
steer gradually towards the starlxiard hand, if you would anchor in the hariior. A hir,
vessel, which can only anchor in the o|)en road, should steer W. by S. from Bniva, ai.
anchor in ."> fathoms.
Sonili oi" I'lava. one mile distant, (here are from .5 to C> fathoms of water.
C'li the passage from Lobos to Monte \'ideo, and also in the navigation of any parly
file river, vmu unist eslimale (he distances run by a ground log, that is to say, by iilii;iii i
nhich (he " chip" has been replaced by a piece of lead. If yon throw the roiiiiiiOD
log immi diately after the deep loi;, the dillerence given by the two logs shows if the cur-
rents are in liviu' of. or against the vessel.
As any jiart of the coast beiween Point Neiiro and Flores. may be apjiroachi'd Miilr
5 or () miles, it may be well, in the night-time, to steer wide to the starboard. Tlierf
volving light on the Island, in this case, m .;■ be i)erceived on the larboard side, bu; imiil
be easy to rectify the vessel's course in steering directly for it. and then leaving' it inihf
fitarboard hand, when you estimate yourself 4 or 5 miles distant. Vou will In il;.! |
means cerlamiy go clear of the Kngiisli Dank.
The Ccrro of Monte X'ideo is 47.'} feet hi<;h. They liave established their a liv:
light, which can be seen in clear weather at only from 5 to b miles distance.
If you wish to go to Monte Video, S. of the English P.aiik, you must, in eiiiiriiij:
viv'-r, place yourself on the parallel of 35^ .'JO', and steer W.by S. with nortlieiiy wu;.,
and W. S. \V. with soiidierly winds.
The soundings are at first line sand, then sand of the usual kind, farther om nun;:
sand, and again mud. \du will be in this last case on the meridian of M<miI(' \'ult. j
and you ought then to see the hill of Monte \'ideo, which can be seen in the (l;iy-i;
in clear weather, ') leai:ues distant. The geographical |)ositiou of this hill is 31
'J" S. latitude, and rib" lb' IW W. longitude.
If in spite of your prerautions you should get in 5 or G fathoms cf water, in pnssip;
S. of Eniilish Maiik, it will be necessary to steer uku'c to the larboard, and keep iiilniiil
7 to ') falhdins.
.Monte \'nleo is in .ni" .'i 1' 11" S. latitude, and 5fi° I.'VIR'' W. longitude. The varu-
tion of the needle in September and December, IB.'H, was 11° 4',*' 24" N. E.
In a thick fog, or in the case of uiu'crtainty of the true position of the ship, it is best I
to anchor, rather than pursue your course iijithe River Plate.
• You can pass norih of Flores, taking the prccnution to pa.s9 ii a pood distance from lliecas-|
em puiiil, lo avoid n bank of rocks iimlcr wnltr, and which cxlcids n niiie and Iialfneriii. }-'•
can anclior only iiorili of ilie tower one or two luilca distant. 'I'.iu Emulation nncliorcJ here in j|
gale of wind, in January, 1831.
wi^ife*
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
575
lib iiortlierlv wiudi
Xo. 13. COURSK TO lUIENOS AYRKS — Vessels tliiit do not wish to takr the
p:».sii;:i' li>' the island ul' Flores, must run on the paniliul ol' I'oint I'ii'dri's dc San JJor-
i,,inl)("in, and stc-or tint- \V. until tlu-y make it. Its geoj^rapliii^d position is ,'5.')'^ -J?' 40"
S, latilinlf, ')7" 'J' W. lon;^itude. 'i'his point is very low, and can only bi; perceived in
clfir wcatiicr. V'ou will remark on the right, many woody hills, amonj; which the high-
est i.ciirs nearly N. W.*
Kriiin I'oint I'iedras dc San Horrombon the course is the same as when the ve.'sel has
nasseil .Monte Video.
V'esstils that draw less than ') I'eet of water, pass generally over all the banks between
this liisl city and lUu-nos Ay res.
'I'liDM! drawui'; l^i feet may pass botwoeu Chico Haidi and the south side.
TiDsc drawing 1.3 feet may pass between the channel form(,'d by Ortiz. Hank and the
norlli .side.
TiiDse drawin::; L'j or 17 feet slu)uld choose the passage between Ortiz- Hank and Chi-
"I'ASSAdF, BKTWKKN ClIKMJ HANK AND THE LAND.— On leaving .AI.,n-
io \'i(l(*o, sleer .S. W. by (;om|)ass .!() mib^s, to avoid being drifteil on the Ortiz, by tliB
nirreiil.". Vou must thf n iiead W. S. W. until you make I'oint Indio, or rather Sal-
\;iilor (irande.
i'oiit Indio is in 'Mi° lit' 20" soutli latitude, and '>7^ U' ■\-2' west longitude, and .'ivj
miles from Monte Video, it is very low, and can oidy be known by the woody hills in
ihc east pari, while the coast to the west has rm hills. When you re(;kon your.self ') to
lOnides from Point Salvador (irande, head \V. N. VV. abmg th'- land. Vou will soon
perceive tlie three Ond)u Treesf of the Magdalena, and then the church of the same
inline. When the first Onibu Tree bears S. by K. by compass, you are then N. and S.
line, from tiie east poiiU of the Chico \. di ; when the ihurch is on the same rhumb,
villi are in the midille o( tiie channel. Vou will distinguish in a short time a large single
Uiiilm Tree on a hill, and more distant, three other Ombu Trees forming a single group.
in sailing along with tlu> land in sight, it is better to steer first one side and then the
•other, to ascertain the limits of the border of soft sandstone, which we have said exists
ill I Ins part of the river, and not to (jtiit it more than 'J or .'5 cables' lengtli, in obtaining
with the leatl alternately soft sandstone and mud, by this means you will avoid the Chico
Rank.
W'lien you distinguish two small elevations covered with buslics and trees, and an Ombu
^iTne by the side of two low houses, you have nassetl the narrow(;st part of the cliannel.
ftAVIieii you are N. and S. true, with these elevations, you are entirely clear. Frniii
Itlieiicc you may follow tin; coast, or steer N. W. until you make the edges of the ( )rtiz.
Ill the first case it is necessary to steer at a distance from the land, twice as great as
^bi'l'iiie, to avoid the Hanks of .Santiago, Lara, and (.'iiidad. In the second case, which
^ is liie most prudent, you must pay great attention to the soundings. The depth iii-
■iciiMscs at fust to '; fathoms at the least, and then diminishes gradrally to .'5'^ and .3 fa-
fctlioiiis. As soon as you have these last soundings you are on the edge of (Jrtiz, and
[Ayou must then head to the west.
This course will bring you towards the south side. You will soon see the village of
(^liiliiies, situated on a little hill on which there are many Ombu Trees, and the towers
nl' Ihu !ios Aytes, and the vessels anchored in the open road. ]t is as well when these
(liifcrent objects are well distinguished to steer \V. N. W. to avoid the Ciudad liank.
, As soon as the Towers of the Cathedral bear S; W. you are in the outward road of the
city.
the city of Buenos Ayres is in :M" .)()' 18" S. latitude, and .58° 2.T 57" W. longi-
Uude. Th'e variation of the needle, in March, IH.'H, was I'i^ r,i)' .50" N. E.
PASSAfiE BETWEEN ORTIZ AND THE NORTH SIDE. — In leaving
^lonte Video, you may follow the land along 6 miles distant, taking care to avoid the
ll'aiiella Rocks, near which is a largo iron buoyt secured by means of a strong anchor
and clinin.
The Panella Rocks are situated in ?,i° .54' 15" S. latitude, and 5()^ \>(V \V. longitude.
Vou are on them when you see I'oint das Veguas of the hill of Monte Video with the
i
* 'fills hill is called Salvador (trando. It is situated between Point Piedrasde San Borronibon
P'and Point Indio; the hill sitiiiited \). of Salvador Cirande, is called Salvador Chico. The jiiiota
Ciiiit'.miul Indian Point wiih tiiese hills.
tTlu^ Oiiilm is a tree which thrives on the borders of the River Plate ; it is as thick and bushy
l^s ,1 walnut tree : its wood is so peculiar, thai it is ^ood for nothing, not even to burn. It grows
fiery rapidly.
t This buoy was placed by the Emulation, in May, 1631, by request of the government of Mont«<
^'idco, to rcjiluce one carried away by bad weather.
576
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
steeples of the city, and Point Espinillo benrs N. by K. by compass, distant 5 mile«,
These rocks are never uncovered, but when the water of the river is very low, it occa-
sions a Ions; eddy which may be easily distinguished.
Point Kspiiiillo, ihouu'h low, is apparent, because it tertninates the coast of the hill of
Monte \'i(U'(), and it forms iliu entrance of the river of fcJanta Lucia, 11 miles trum
Monte Video.
IJeinj; N. and S. true with l^oint Espinillo, you must steer W. by N. by compass, ;ir,i|
follow the land always at the disiiuK e of (> or 7 miles, to avoid the little banks of H;ini|
on the borders of the river. You will soon perceive the high scarped mountains, callij
]3arrancasde San (Jrej^orio, or Santa Lucia. When you are N. and S. with their cisi
extremity, called Point de .lesus Maria, steer \V. N. W. until you brine this poitn i,,
bear E. | N.by compass. Yoti must then head to the W. until yoti make Point Snii(r>.'
the only part of the coast which is woody. The latitude is V-M" :J.j' 20" S.and the Ion ..
tudeTj?^ 2b' -21" \V. '■
From thence you may coast alons; at a short distance, until you pass north of vnn,
great bank of rocks, of which some are out of water, and arc known by the name olij.f
Pijins. Vou will thus arrive olV Point Colonia, with a considerable depth of water,biii
in a very narrow channel between this part of the coast and the Orfi/, Hank.
When you are befort- the cily of ('olonia, you leave in };ood season on your riqlitth*
San (Jabriel Islands, Karallon and Ticper, and steer then S. W. for Hiicnos Ayres.
The naviijation south of the Chico IJank, and north of the Ortiz, IJank, is not pracij.
cable except with a fair wind and a favorable current.
PASSACE HKTWEEN THE CIllCO BANK AND THE ORTTZ BANIU
You may leave Monte Video until within ') or 10 miles of Salvador (irande, tlirn vou
bring the vessel's head W. N. W. to bring the first Onibu Tree of the Magdalina S.L,
and avoid by this course the new bank. From this the course is N. W. J N.
This course leads directly to the edges of the Ortiz Bank, and as soon as you roni'
up to this bank and have .')J to ',]}; fathoms, bring the head W. until you perceive iIk
village of Quilmes and Buenos Ayres.
If the winds are ahead and the currents favorable, you may beat between Cliirnar;
Ortiz Bank, but the tacks should be short, and you sliould [irefer the neighborlmodif
the Ortiz, because this bank is announced by the progressive and regular diminution ci
the soundings. If the currents are contrary, you should anchor between the h,itii,<
taking care to avoid the sol't sand bottom which vou often meet in the River Plalp.
No. 14. C"OlTRSE FOR THE IlOR.NOS ISLANDS.— If you are before Colnri:,.
going from Monte Video to the north of the ( )rti/., leave the islands on the right, and «bz
you bring the island of Farallon to the north, steer N. N. W., and then N. by W.;i ;;
will soon see tlic Hornos Islands on the same line, the last islands after leaving ColoDn,
and covered with small trees, and very bushy.
You will anchor N. W. from the outward one, and at from 1 to 1.', mile ofT.
Tn going from Buenos Ayres, you must steer so as to bring Farallon north of yoii.anJ
then steer as in the preceding case.
Colonia is situated in ;54° -JH' 14" S. latitude, and r,7° .W 37" W. longitude. Th( |
variation of the needle was, in September, Id.'JO, 11° 8' N. E.
Additional Rrmarks, by dipt. Ileyu-ood.
At the entrance of the River Plata, f the prevailing winds, during the summer monih<,
from Se|)tember to March, are north-easterly, witli tolerably clear weather over lieai,
but a dense atmosphere near the horizon. These winds haul gradually to the eiistwar;
as you advance up the river; and, about tin? full and change of the moon, strong hrfp^ti
from the south-eastward are common at this season, accompanied with rain ami W
weather. At Buenos Ayres, during the summer months, flic .S. E. winds are gencralli
fresh in the day-time, liauling round to the northward in the night.
• This point is so named from a little river of the same name, before whicb smnll vessels botnd
to Cojdiiia, or from liie Urngiiny, ancbi.r. The brii,' Star of the South, cniiic near hcinp losiimi.
tempting to approach this jioint, on some rocks covered with water, which wvxv not seen orindi-
catcd on any chitri. Foriiitiaicly a biif,' anclionMl near, prcivcnted the loss by making us a sigiui.
+ Shddl off the l\i() (Ic In I'latii. — Tiir IiMiircl, M'Donald, from London to Vtdparaiso, put iniiuhf
river of La Phita, on tliu l!bh of .lane, 1^^'■J, having been obliged to hear up to repair some daman
sustained l)y a heavy sea breaking on Imard of Ikt. The muster reported as follows: — Timt, hjI
the l.'ith of.Tune, h-t discovered a shoal in !at. .Ki^ 2H ' S., long. 51"^ 3(1' W. ; that it appeared lolfl
nhoiu a mile long, and the same in breailiii, with a sea breaking very high over it, that it had thi' ap-
pearance of sand, and httie water on it. lie passed within half a mile, and then hove to, soundwil
with 90 fathoms of line, and found no bottom. He further states, that he had a good chronomcttroal
board, and wus six niiica out of his longitude when ho made the port of Monte Video.
BLUIMT's AMlilUCAN COAST PILOT.
577
iss, distant 5 miles.
s very low, it ccta-
> const of the hill of
ucia, 11 miifs Irom
N. by compass, and
ittic haiiivs t)t' sjiml
■(I iiioinitains, calltii
cl S. with tlielr lasi
I hrinj: this poim in
inaUe Point SniKc,'
!0" S.anil the Ion:;.
pass north of yoin
1 hy the naniP ol'ih?
• depth of water.biit
i/. liaiik.
on on yonr rij;littht
IJnenos Ayres.
, Bank, is not practi-
ORTIZ B.\NK,-
)r (irande, then you
he Ma<;(hdina S. L,
. W.^N.
as soon as yon rom?
til you perceive ib(
t between Chiro ad
tlie neisiliborhnuiif'
egular diiiiinutiimri
between tlie hanks,
Ifhe River IMate.
are before Colniiij,
the riglit, anflwk.'i
icn N. by \V.;uiii
ter leaving Coloun,
', mile off.
on north of von. an! I
«' Diirinc the winter months, from March to September, the jirevailinu; winds, at tho
piitraiici;
(it' the IMala, are S. \V. or more westerly; hut, up tiie river, nior
I,' iri.neia
iroiii
the n<
liward, than tht; soulinvard, of west.
Uy
The wiiiti-r season is iIki best, in jioint of weather, at ISuenos Ayres; for. the winds
l)ciri„' rine
(Iv from tlie N. W. to S. VV. the water is smooth, and the c
ominniiM-ation can
me-
lie kept up between the- shore and the shipping with mori' I'acilily. The weather is so
times, lint not fnM|iU'ntly, foggy. l'-.i>is ar<' most (ommon in the moiiths ni .liiK, August,
iind September, ami prevail mmi! at tiie entrance of the rivt^r, as far up as the S. K. tail of
the Ortiz, than above the baiik>
' As it eamiot be said that there are regular tides in the Plata, but curreni-i a< inuert;
im
ill tlit'ir duration, as they are irregular in tlieir rate and direction, iio ( i rlain allowaiieu
ran be made lor them ; theret'ore-a ground-log should always he usi'd, to Know the course
111. nil' good, au(
'•The ti(b
1 (list;
nice run.
lerally speaking, when the w(!ather is line and settled, and the wiud.4
moderate, do not, iii any part of this river, rise or fall more than .') or b feet ; tliouuh at
Ihieiios Avres, at llnr distaiice of i-^ miles from the. city, we found, in his .Majestv's .xliip
N'ereiis, when the winils were strong at N. W.
littl
e, sometimes, as i .'i {■,■('1 water
viliile with strong bree/es from K. S. K. to S. S. W. the depth was upwards of.') fatlioins :
liiit, exi-ept on such extraordinary oeirasions, we hud b(,'iweeii 17 and 21 feel water. I
liave heard, howi'ver, some marvellous stories of tho river having been almost dried up
.icross from Itiii'iios Ayres to Colonia, during hi'avy westerly gales.
The Kiv<'r Plata has many singularities, which I think may, in a great meusiir.', bn
ilCCI
united lor, from its formation beiii^ so dill'erent Irom ativ otlir-r known ri\
er.
It
s eii-
II iiiee being very wide and very shallow, it is all'ected by every change of wind in a most
cxtraordinaiy manner ; so much so, that a shift of wind may In; predicteil nlmost to a
certainlv, bv observiiiLr can
the currents, w
hiel
I iisiia
llv
fully tl
le state of the nierciuv in a UaniiMcter am
I ti
ic
■iet of
slllll lielore
111
(; wim
I. 1
II calm \ve.ither tiie cinreiils are
gfiiicraily very slack; and then as regular, almost, as tides: setting up and down the
river alternattdy. W^heii the wiinls are variable, the currents are e((ually
kinnv
II tiie Nereiis to be current rode four dill'erent wavs in less than si\ lioiir.-
W
Have
leii
the current comes in from tlie eastward, alon^j llienorlli bank of the Plata, a nnrtli-east-
erlv wiiiij may generally lie expected to fuliow; and at the same lime ('Iioiild the wind
have been previously to the S. E.) the mercury in the baroMieler will fall a little ; Inu.
iiiucii more if the transition be (|uick from south-west, without stopjiin^ iii th'- sontii-
(H.ilerii (|narler.
WMien tlie wind continues in the iiorlli-east (pi;iri( r. the mercury is inori! deprcsse,!
L'cording to its strength) than with any otlier win
d there is usiiallv, then, a set
iiitd the river on the mu'tli bank, and out on the opposite, indeed, whilst iIk; winds are
ht'tween N. K. ami S. S. I"], the current generally runs to the westward past .Monte X'ideo,
tliinmli without much augmenting the depili dl water olf that jilai e, but liliiii^ the river
above the banks.
Tl
le wiiK
Is between N. N. K. and W. \. W. make the water lowest: t
VV. longitude. Th( | luMiig then strongest along the south bank of the river, past the Poiiit.~
Meiiioria; but very inconsiderable along the. north bank.
lie out-sot
I ndio and
the summer mnnib,
weather over \\n\ |
ually to the eastwat:
noon, strong lirepw
with rain ami inJ
winds are geiicrailj |
ich smnl! vessels bod
ic near being iosiinii-
were not seen or inili- 1
by innUing us iipcM'
Vaipiuaiso, inilini'ii''!
to repair smiieilaiiir.-"«
. ns follows:— Tiia'.,';
; that it appeared M-'
cr it, that it hiultlH''?;
il tlienliovcto, soiinii'--|
npodd cliroiioiiicttru
te Video.
•• lli'lore the setting in ot a S. W. gale, or Pampero, the weather is usuallv verv mi-
settleil, and the winds unsteady and variable in the northern and uorlh-westcrii boards,
preceded by a considerable fall in the iiierciiry, though il usually rises a little ;i:;ain before
the wind shifts to the south-west, and often continues to rise, even though the wind may
increase from that (|uar(er.
" Hefore these winds set in at l>uenns Ayres, iIh; current rims up, and lills tlit? river
|unusually high : at the same time as stnuig an out-set is expi-rienced along the north
[bank, wliii li coutinues whilst the winds are strongest from \V. S. \V. to .S., seeming to
prove that these winds force up, from the southward, a large accumulated body of water
(past Cipe St. Antonio, which can only (ind a jiassa^e out auaiii by the luuih shore,
iwliere tiley increase the depth of water, as wadi as up the river, and |iaitien!arly in tho
|sluiliow liariior of Monte Video.* Whilst these S, W. winds blow the air is cold, and
Ithe atiuosjihere clear and elastic, in a d(><;ree rarcdy to be met with in any other part of
[the world. They are generally succeeded bv some davs of line serene weather, the w iiul
iicoiitiimiii!,' moderate from the siMithward,
I h
or varying lo the castwarrl
live never known the velocity ol the tide or current, in
the I
»ive
Mat:
1, any where
I
to exceed three knots per hour: but I have heanl it said, by some, that they have found
It to run at the rate of six or seven mile
s an hour
;. • There is a lighthouse at Monte Video, the Inntrrn of which is four hundred and sevcnty.five
Jteet above the level of the sea.
\ 7."
\
578
LLl'iNT 3 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Iwiili
Miuhsh J'.;mk, in i(s |i-ii;i||(:,
;'>(1 i)f the iiii'iidiaii u( [.olios,
;('i-(»ii.s, if proniMciirclit
•• As tho vrirnU nutsidn the Illvcr Plafn, and iiiirticiilarly about Capo St. M.ny, fi,f
most frequently ,'tnm tho north-oastward and nortliward, oxropt wlion tlio S. K. sm,,.
iiior and S. W. winfr <.';al('s lilow, ahiiiii ilic times i>{' n<MV ami I'lili moon, I eotisidprn
on the whole, most advisahle, tor shlp>< Ixmtid inlo the rivi-r, lo get in wiih the land aliDui
tlie latitude of that eape.
" In latitude ;{'i S. ilio hank of soundings extends oli' tl;e land full thirty-six lraciiP(i
wiiero the depth of water, in loiujilndo 50' -Ji)' VV. is !>l fathoms, and tho (pialitv ni ihe
bottom darli olive-eolored niiid, or ooze, as if is all al(in;r the fiuterinnst vert'o of tlio W^^
" In lat. ;U ' S. and .'jn leaniies from the land, the hank is stei-p, and the soini(|ji|,K
decrease (pii(kly ; in siandin'; to tin westward, to :.'.j f'.thoms, -Ji) leagues from land.
" In lat. Lil ' -JO' :'>. and lonu;. rjl ' ')n' \V. or about W leagues east of the (heat (';i,.
tellios linek, tho deptli is ()■'{ or '- 1 fallionis, dark mud. Jii sfaiidimj; in for tlie land, i,,,.
twooM tho (ireat Castelhos and ( 'ape St. JMary, the water shoals, in a short distaneo, fi,,,,,
()0 to "^'5 fathoms; and tin- (piaiity of the bottom than?es to sand, which .'^rows cmirv,
as you apjiroaeh the coast; ,ind, as far as seven lea'.'^Hes oil' shore, is inlerinixed «ii|,
shells. M'his bottom is feimd mdy in, ami to the innthward ol', the lalitudr! of ('ape ,s,
Mary, cxoei)t very close in with it.
" To the soutliv.ard of .'! 1' 10' .*^. the bottom is rhielly nnid, informixod with (jni
or f^nivel ; -nd ilashii) happen to be set to tlie southward <d'< 'ape .^t. Alary, as slic
in (or th.' ltt\, yet keeps to the northv.ard of T>(d)os, she will .'^et out of line smid
di . .v\ v'hicli is the (piality of the bottom, ehiedy, l.( tween Cape .St. Marv and |,,|.
bot, ■ t'.ol. • >3 or 9 Icaj^ucs to tho eastward of th.at island ; and the depth of' water |,p.
twci- ■ !ien i- jionorally Hi) to 20 fathoms.
" In lat. '.'li'P ■■ and loiin;. 0:2 ' W. or t-J l(>a^nes true east of Lobos, there arr nliom
90 fathoms watet, dark sandy bottom ; from whemr the bank of soundings takes a S, \V.
direction. East of Lobos, 'J7 lcaj;ues, tin <lepth is -Jo fiilhoms; and, in sleeriii;,' in, m
its parallel, the same depth nearly continiios till very near that island. Hut, if set ;iliii{e
to the southward of hobos, the water v/ill sluval even to HI fathoms, perhaps, on a brj
sandy or t^raveily ridm', that extends all the way from the '■'"
as far as bmij. frl' .'JO' \V.; or lull 1- lea'^ui's to ilie easiv,
"Thus the approach to this livereannot be eon.-iilered dan
taken in navi^atin^, and duo attention paid to the lead, and to the course steered.
" 1 sliall here insert the hoiioralde Cai)!. Moiiverie's dcs.-riplion of Cape St. Marv, ic,
wliich I believe to be v(>ry eorrret, ami his directions jin'icious.
" Cape St. Mtuy is a low point, with rocks all about it. The diicetion of the coaq,
to tlie westward of this Capi-, becomes more westerly tlnii at any other part nortjmarii
of it. About six miles northward of it is a house, with a row of trees northward oltlis
house, (pro!)ably a fence of hii^h prickly-jioar bu-<hes.) «hirdi is v( ry remarkabii'.
" About a mile south of the lniiis;> is a bliili point, wiili a few rocks at the fool, wliifli
is remarkabl(\ bein.; different from ihe rest of the c'o;isl. the ceneral cliaraet(!r of Hhifli
is a sandy beach. < >uc cannot fail (!l' knowin.i? the Cape by tiiese marks, runniii'j (Ur.
the coast near it. If you are at any distaueo oil", you will imt jjerccivo them. Tin- \\:m
off Cape St. Mary is shoaler than to th<' northwar.l. ( )ir the Cape, in a .S. K. dinTtina
you have s', fathoms at tiie distance of 1 or o miles."
1 am inclined to think Capf. 15. may have been somewhat deceived in liis esiimatinr.
hero; for in his .Majesty's ship Nereus, L found more water at the disfanoe he iiipd.
tions. On tho 17th of November, 1^10. at noou, in lat. Ill" -I'J' S., and loiiir. alMHifJ
20' E. of the Momit Video, h:.il lii^ht winds frtun S. by W., and line weather. At h'
past 1 P. M., ta(d.ed in 'SA fathoms, to stand in sln)re, ami carried fnun that deptli to!-
fathoms, wlion sights were taken for the chronometer, which made 2" 13' 'Jl"enst«
Mount Video, Capo St. .Mary beariii'; N. b(» ' \V., and sta-idin;; on, layin;,' up W, d
W. by N., tacking in l"i! fathoms water, the prickly jx-ar hed^i- (mentioned hv Ca|it3ii
Bouverie) being on with Cape St. .^Iary (which is foniied by a low rocky islet ncitijl
joining the sliore) bearing norih by compass, and tin: breaker, stretchinj; to the Jj. E.f
of the cape, N. 7° E., about ;5 miles was our distance from tho cape
Captain Bouverie. in continuation, says, " To the northward of the capo, betwccnill
and Palma, you have 10 or 11 I'athoins at a little distance from the shore
"Ships in general make the l;ind with N. or N. E. winds: tberofore it is best to kcfpl
in the latitude of the cajie, or a little to the northward of it, till you get soundings, aslhtl
current sots to the S. W. It is better not to inaKc the land north of tho capo, nottlia;!
I believe there is any absolute danger, but the water in many places is shoal aloiigwajl
ofl'thc land, and wctuid alarm any one rmt acipiaiiitnd v. 1th ihal circumstance.
" In lat. 33° 27' S., and long, •'i'i '>' W. is a shoal, where we found 9 fathoms water.
believe it is a ridge riuuung in tliat parallel of latitude all tho way to tho shore. In lal
tude 34" S. is some tolerably high land, on which is a Spanish fortress, called Fort Tel
resa. Tt is' a sr(iv.'re. with l»asiioi!s it the angle.«. Tt ha;- three guns iu tho faco Hiulomj
In the Hank, and
It ii a mark set i
'• Heiiiii in 1 iti
Tint! sand and sin
fath.nns, sand an
the land before i
t(i allow for the c
aieriiidiie i N. an
otiier way.
'• I am imdinei
with oil' the moii
suntii-wi'stwarii, >
'•.\greein:; in (
to make the lathi
any where belwei
lisli Hank, passin;.
There is a good |
\^irialion Ili eas
'• When wiih'n
compass, is a fair
witli the wind froi
guarded against.
mid 'JJ ; and sume
ward nor to the sc
then to dark blue
southward, in stoc
.siuidy ; and when
Irt, and 17 fathoms
Iiavt! hard casis of
of the Knglish I Jan
the bottom soften,
foul ridge of the E
tho fair way from
likely to blow, a si
from southerly wii
miles from lj(d)os.
Captain iloin erie s
"The Spanish
lietween any pan o
by small ves.sols, ex
the N. W. point of
or b fathoms, gmnl
heavy swell ; and t
way across in bad v
chorage beloro its
places where there
rocks to the south
'111' iMiter j)art of j',
" In the direct, ii
jwherc there are pai
Ion the rocks, are N
is. \V. point of (lilt
jAzucar, jii.st within
" in mid-chanmd
jdistance from the is
Itheni, all round the
jThe stream loses it>
Irollyour casks aboi
j " Having Lobos
[about 18 fathoms ;
f«iup regard to tho v
^:dipad of you. hi
I 'boms due south ol'
j or ten miles of h'lor,
"Though Captai
aightorday, by ma
DLUiXT 8 AMEUICAN C()Aj?T PILOT.
679
Sf. IM.'iiy, urB
he S. K. sum.
I, I nitisidpr n,
(lie land aliom
i-|y-six Irn^^upd^
' (|Hiility (li'ihe
"j;r of tlio Innii,
the .soniulinos
Vom l;iii(|.
lln" (treat Cm.
or tlic land, In..
t <listancc,|'i(iiii
li i;r(ius cniuMr
iiilcrmixfii wj;ii
inle 111' ( 'ape Si
(1 with (itipsiitij
ary, as slm Imuii
il' (inc saml wu
. Mary ami I,;,.
|illi of water !if
there arr nhuiit
(IS lakes ;i S. W,
ri sleeriii;; in, oi.
Silt, if set iilltilf
rliaps, t)ii iibri
K, ill its |ni;illti,
■ridiaii of [.idIkis,
if proper nirobt
<e strereii.
le St. iMarv,&:.
nil o
f the cni«,
part iKirtliwaH I
orlliward iifilie |
inarlvalile.
tli(> liml. h1i
raeti'r (if wliifil
rimiiiiiiz i\im\
•in. Tlu' wall
S. J'l. (lin.Ttioii,
II Ills (•^liiiinikl
istatiee hi' nifiv
il loii.U. alKiut']-
•atlier. At lul I
lint depth t(i!-j
i:i' -Jl" cnslfij
lyinii up W. aniil
d by CiiptMl
cKy islet nearli
lii
li: to the IS. tl
In the flank, and staiils ahoiit a mile iVom the li< aeh. Almiit 0 leagues N. N. E. iVom
It li a mark set up, as tlie teniiinaiioii of liie Spanish leirilories.
" Hoiiii; ill 1 ititiide of C.ipe St. .A!.iiy,aiiil liaviii;:^ i;of ,';rouiid in ^•- (ir .'>(> fathoms water,
fmi! ^a:id and shells, you iii.iv ricl.on yunr- .11" '.'il lea^mvj olf shore ; with Ironi 15 to 20
fath.iiin, .taiid anil clay iiri\ed, yoii are not Car oil" the land. When yon havo not seen
the land hefore nii;lit, he sure to Keep to the tiortlnvani of the rape hy your reckoning,
for the current, which sets to tin- .southward. This is the ea.si; with the above-
to allow
iiit'ii
liiiiie I N. and N. Iv winds. With S. and S. W. wi;;ds the current runs strong
t)ic
other way.
•' I nin inclined to t'nink that the stronc; nurth-castcrly currents which are to be met
with olf the niouih of the I'lata wiien tiii' wind is about to Mow, or blowinj^, from the
suuth-weslwaid, do not extend inii(!i, if at all, beyond the liank of soundings.
".Vnreeiiiji in opinion \\\\\i ("aplaiii iiouverie. that, tjsenrrally speakint;, it is advisable
to make the land aljoui. ('ape .'«;i. .Mmiv, I >/ould also recomiiM iid, if the wind should be
any where between i-',
I-;
.UK
I N. N. E., to
ent<Mthe river on llu' north side of the Kiig-
[IV
lisli Hank, passing IjoIk'^. on either .side.aceordini; to the wind and state ot the weather.
There is a nood passage hi'twecn Lobos and ilie main, havini^ 17 to 11 fathoms water.
Variation I.) easterly (1 1:5.)
" When within .'J or 1 lea:;ue.i of (^ipe St. .Mary, in IT or l.-< fathoms, S. S. W., by
compass, is ii fair coursi! to steer for passing outside of Ijobos in the niglit time; for,
with the wind from the eastward, or N. K. the set along shore into the river must be
guarded ai.;.iiiist. .Steeling this S. S. W. course, the di|)th of water will increase to 20
and "JJ ; and sitme easis, perhaps, of 'J-j or HI fathoms, (if you are set neilh(<rto the west-
ward nor to the southward ot'it.) and the bottom will (!haiii;e, lirst to sandy mud, and
then to dark blue mud, as you api)roaeh the latitude of Lob' If you arc set to tlie
sou
thward, in sieeriim .'^. .S. \V. you will nut di epen so iiiiiei.
bottom will keep
olios.
you will h • no more than 19,
II
■w miles, VOU Wl
saiuly ; and when you approiudi the latitude nf I.
18, and 17 fathoms; but if you are set to the soulhwaid id"
have hard casts of from Id to lU faihoms. and may rest assured of being on the paralhd
of the Knglish IJaiik, and may therefore make a west northerly course, trim, till you (ind
the bottom soften, as it is all dari; Idm; or ijreenish mud, in hi' ehaiinel, between the
foul ridse ol the i';iiu,ii.di li'.iiik and iin' lunlh .-diore, ail the way up to Monte Video, in
the fair way from Lol.'us. When oil" Lubos, if the we;- er ihreaien, and il should be
likely to blow, a ship will tiiid safe aiiehoraye in the h,. .,or of Maldoiiailo, sheltered
'from southerly winds by the Lsland of (Jorilti. which bear,? N. 42' W., true, 11 or 12
miles from jjolios. .\s I have never lieen in .Maldoiiadu my.udf. I shall insert here what
Captain lloii'.i'rit^ says about it.
"The Spanish survey- ol' this bay lay down a siiflieieiu depth of water for any ship
between any jiari of the island and the main ; hnwcncr. it cannot be sahdy entered, but
by small vessels, e.xc^ept to tli- westward : and you iniist not go farther in tlian to bring
the N. W. point id'tioritti to bear S. ."<. \V. ', W., or S. W. by S., by compass, with 4^
or .i fathoms, good strong clay. With soiitlierly winds tliere is, in the east passage, a
heavy
swei
anil tli(> water.
roni
tin
round lieiiii: iiiieven, breaks almost the whole
way across in bad weatlier. The Dioiuede {lifty-gun ship) passed throui;h it to the an-
chorage before its dangers wore known, and had not less than l.'-t'eet; but there are
places where there is so liitle as 1,', fathom; and it is very irregular. There is a bed of
rocks to the south ol (iuritii : tlie mark:; for it are, the Tower of Maldonado nortli, and
the outer part of I'oint del KpIcE. N. E. .', K.
"In the direct line dt'lii.' entrance ol the bay, frmn the westward, is a bed of rocks
j where there are parts havin^j only :{ and ipiarter less ,'J fathoms. The bearings, taken
jon the rocks, are N. K. point of (loritti. K. ', S. : N. W. point of ditto, E. by S. -}, S.;
S. W. point of ditto, S. K. by S. ; Point I'.allena, W. by N. .' X. ; the hill of Tan (le
jAzucar, jnsl within the cMieme of Point IJaliiMia.
" in mid-channel, between tliese rocks and the ishmd, are f>\ and 7 fathoms. Their
sidistance from the island is about three i|uarters of a mile. Tliere are 7 fathoms close to
eane between ilB *'^*''"' '*" ''omid the wcsieni side. The waleriiiir place is on the main, close by a battery
' ' ' ' KaThe stream loses itstdf in the siind, except when swollen iiy lieavy rains, and you have to
il is best to kcfp
:ounding.s,nslhi
le cape, not tltf.
shoal a long wa;
stance.
itlioms water. 1
1 shore. In lati'
called Fort Te-
the faco amlont
« roll
your casks about bf) yards over tlie sand. The water is very good.
.] " Having liobos bearing N. by AV., liy compass, distant ;i or 1 miles, you will h.ivc
about 18 fathoms; and, in iiiakinu; a compass course. AV. .' S., by ground lo^s (having
^due regard to tlie wind and current at the time.) you wilf make the Island of Klore.s
I ahead of you. In this track your souinliii^s will ijradually ih>erease from JH to IJ fa-
thoms due south of Mlack Point, and to 7 or r! fathoms when you approacli within nine
"orlen miles of Klores.
" Though Captain Honverie says, ' Von may lun quite iiji to Monte Video, cither by
[night or day, by making a due west (ouise, lirst trying the current to make allnwance for
\
580
TUAJNt's AMKKICAN COAHT TII-OT.
it;' iunl ihoiish I li;iv«^ frf(|m'iiily done it iny'*«'lf. y<'f ' woulil not rrronnnoiKl n ;\^^
Kciicral rule to he t'olloucd liy sfr;inst*r'< to tlie Kiver I'liitii. (irciit riirc and attctirinn tir
the ruiiisr im;i(I(' i;oiiil, ami In the soundings, aic iiidi«i|K'iisald_v i«'(|iiisitf in tliuM
who atii'iiiiit to condMri vessels diiiin;.' llie ni!:lii, in an) part of this river; anil ( un
these liave lieen hill too ol'ien insiiClieient to save ships iVoni desH nction. IJnt, in imr.
chant vessels, I Tear wo cannot always expect to lind those (jualities; and, thereldr., [
withhold my opinion of its heinj; advisahh^ lor tlieiii to run in the ni;;ht ; neither c;:!) n
be rione hy men of war. without some risk.
" l-'lores hears, hy the world, W. 1 '.W N. (Voni l.ohos, distant .'>•.' miles, h |,,,
neatly N. !!. and .S. W., has a small hnmniock in the middle, and oim- at each end ; i|,.>
to the .S. \\'., heinsj ."') leet hi^li. Itetween these the land is low and marstiy, and mi;
(lowed soinetinns heiweeii the central anil .\. K. hummock, .t may he seen at tlirni,.
tiuice oC Tne or .six leasiiu's Crom a ship's deck in clear weal her.
"'i'liere is jjiuhI am horau'c all round lliis island. Iiiit a reel' extends in a N. AV. dirrr.
tion I'rom the north point aiioiit a mile. Seals and sea lions, and various nipiaiir li>|,\
resort to the small island as will as to fiohos ; and in tlie months ol' August and S('[jiiii..
her, sivat cpiantities ol'very excellent eiZ!is may he procured. With the wind eiistirk,
hoals may land on the western side of {'"lores, particularly in a small cove very iie;iiii»
S. W. |)ait III llie island. P'roiii {'"lores, W. N. \\'.. the Carefas Rocks (ahovr v,;\Wi
are disiaiil ahoul live miles, and there are .'") fathoms hetween theiii.
rue soiilli.
the distanie of 1 1 miles iViuii Florcs, is tlio north part ol'the Hnulish IJank, on w]
in that lalitiide, .'{")' H' S.. there are ahout TJ leei wator. 'I'lie depth ol' water lift
l'"Iores and llie l'lut.'li--h I>aiik is 7 rallioins all the wav across, to within a verv liitlf
hi
^enerallv hreaks, and, will
tance ol' holli. The Kn^lish l»ank, in lat. .'!.')" J-j, ijeneraiiy nreaks, anil, wiiii,i|„it
river, is ahove water in some places. Its extent, to the soiilliward, has not yet hrcnw.
ciirately deliiied ; and Cor 70 or '^0 miles to the south-eastward of it the ground is va-
to he ("oul and uneven, and has not heeii explored.
"J>etweeii tlie Aicjiimeiles and the Kn;:lish Iiank tliere is a swatch of !'i fatli(iiii« li-
ter, (ac conliii',' to ('apt. I>eaut'urt, of the Royal Navy, who explored tlu'se hanks in Imi;,
and as many miles wide.
" 'J'lu! shoalest part of the Archimedes l?ank, ahoul 2',' fatlioms, is 4 iiiiles in v\ut:
ahout north and south, and there are I fathoms all round it. The rentre of it is inlim
tilde .'IT' IJ' S., and the .Monte N'ideo hears N. 'J'j' W., hy the world, from it, iImmi
'JO miles, r.esidcs this hank, there is a small knoll, in lat. I!.')" It' S., whii h is iiii'!;
from the iMoiite \'ideo 'Jl luiles, and has not more than .■'.', fathoms of water on it, aij
about 1 fatlioms all roinid it.
r
assiii!'
to tlie southward of Flores, at the distance id" a couple of miles, vim
f)', or 7 lalhiiiiis, and may steer W. ', S. to pass I'oint iJralia, which hears tnie \V.
N., distant I leaiiiies from the S. \V. end of Flores. This point is holder tu tlmri
land to tlie westward, between it and tlie town of Monfo N'idco, and may he passpili'|n.e,|
ill l', or .') fatlioms, at a mile or a mile and a half distance. ^Mie best ancliorn!;iMcr
friiiate, off tlie town of Monte \'ideo, is with I'oint l?ralia hearinsr W. by N. ', N.;!!:-
nuns, |»
cathedral N. K. by X.
d the mount about N. W. by M,. in .'!', and 4 fati
till
miles or more from the town, «'itli the harbor (|iiite open. The bottom is all suit
" The harbor of Monte Video is very slioal, havinc; only from 14 to I'J feet water;
the bottom is so very soft that vessels receive no damage by i;rouiidin!j; there. t"n|ite:
Hoiiverie says, ' A S. S. \V. wind, which blows riuht into the harbor, and causes a i
(leal ofse;i, always occasions the waterto rise a fathom or more.'
" In a loiii; conliiiuanee of tine weather, the tides souu'times assuuie the ap|
of regularity : but lliis is not often the case. They arc governed entirely by tl
The winds from the southward cause the waterto run out on the north shore strniis;e>i
Fine weallier and a N. \\\ wind make the water lowest. It is usual, in Monte Viilf?|
hariior. to have an anchor to the i'^. K. and another to the S. W. and to take one iiiate
from the northward; lor the water, forced in by the southerly wind, sometinies rii>lw|
out with astonishing raj)idity ; when the anchorage to the north is of the greatest .serviff
"The .Mount A'ideo is in" latinide :M" ')',',' S. longitude . ''if)" ,']' W. of Creeiiwicli: l)f
iioiirac'f
IC willtiv
ing 1"" 'J4' W. of the island of l.ob
an
d 'J° 10' E. from tlie ralliedral
15llPDl»
Avri's. On the summit of this mount is a fortified buildinc, whose base is I'.' fet't(>ii;-
dies by L'U feet, used sometimes for a light-house.* The diameter of the hiiileiii i
ilJl
* A lanirrn, wiili l.iiiips nnd rcilcciors, for Monie Video, Wius i)ri'])ared in London, by or(ltT:|
tlii^ Poi'iiirui !-c uovcriinieiil, and sliipjicd in May, 181!). It was llieii staled liiat the iJLdiilniiii'r «'-|
to be eroded mi the Isli Flores ; bill, on tlie Sitiili of October following, an ofiicia! notice was issi».l
from tlie I'riiisli Ailiiiirally, .stiiiinjr that " the liiililboiisc, wliicli furniorly stood upon the mouniwl
Monto Video, bad been reestablished, and is to be ligLted every evening." The light liaf, 'li''*|
fore, been maferiully improved.
UM .NT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
581
piMiiiriul it a* ^
inil attciilinn hi
iiisite ill tliiisr
rivfi- ; iiiwl cu'n
I. IJiit, ill imr-
iiid, tlicrt'liiri'. [
; iicillicr c;:]] '
' miles. It \:n
I ciicli ctid ; il,'
liirsliy, mill iiw[
: .scull ill tliriih
I :i .\. \V. (lirK.
)iis ni|iiiiii(' line's
jiist ;iii(l S((i|iii
ic wind (Mstitlt,
Dvc very neanlif
•ks (ididvc Wilier
'rniC SIHllll, ,;
P.iiliK, (III wli:-!!,
ol' \v;il('r lictHiin
II ii very lillloilN
, ;iiid, Willi ;i lh«
.; not yi't hniiiir.
he ground is sar
of .') filtlldlllSHl
se banks in Imc.
4 miles in t'xtfT.'.
Urv of it is inliiii
d, (Voni it, (iistjiii
,. wliicli is trill' S
1)1' wiiter (III it, id
miles, villi bv |
lears tine \\'.\
older to tlKinib
V 1)0 p;issrilii(i>t, I
t iiiiclior;n;i' li''-
liy N. 'N. •,!!:•
d 4 t'litlionis, l»
im is all soft ii.i;
<) leet water; ir.
iS, there. Cnj"':
and causes aiOu
10 tlie apii(';inr,'|
ircly liy the wini'
h shore slroiije?-
in INIonte VhImI
I take one iiiatal
sonietinies n\-y\
10 greatest seivitt
(' (ireeiiwieh;l'f|
lodral of l?ii™"
asp is I-.' I'eet(iit-I
(■ the laiilernisl'
London, by orilct;'!
,1 ihe iiizliiluiiisf'"^
ial notice was issM
1 upon the mouniwl
The light lia". 'Ii'"f
for' ^1 iniliex, niid its rjevalidii ahiivc tlie level of the sea, •t7.''> feet. At the ha«p of the
mount are several runs ol exctdleni water, |iariiciil irly in luo sniall. siiiootli, simdy liayH,
1)11 the S. W. part ol' it, where ships m ihe outer road may supply iheiiiseivos wiiii cane;
,iiid aiiothei oil the east side of the mount, just alircast of Ual island, adapted to NJiips
ni the liarlior.
'•(tivinn the preference to the passa'^e on llie north side of the l',ni;lish liank, CHpe-
riallv ttlieii the wind is any where lietweeu S. S. K. and .\. .\. K. (Ui pasMii;; liohos, bc-
( ause it may lie expected iiio-'l prohahly to shift, if it (hies at all, round hy tlie nortli to
the westward ; thouuh, periiaps, not helore that w ind, and tlic inset, together, mijilit car-
ry a ship up to .Moiiie \ idco; yet il the wind should he to tiie iiorth-westwaid at ttii;
liiiie III iiiakiiiu llie land, it may lie pretty cniilideiilly expected to sliilt next to the west-
ward or S. \\'., and therefore a ship shonjii not strive to heat up. round holios and llie
iiiirtli (lianiK I. against an outset, hut .stand at once over towards Cape .St. Antonio,
where, hv the tini'i shf! could stretch across, slip would, most likely, (ind a S. S. W. wind
and .\. W. current to run up w iih, ahuii: aweatlier shore, to Hiiciios Ayres: orto .Monte
\'ideii, it' liou'id thillicr. pa^.-iiii.; to the westward of the hank of Archimedes, in ahoiit ."J
liithonis wat(" r, if the mount should he sren in ^ood time, never to hriii;; it to hear
to the wc.iiward (d' north, till within ."i ieaniies of if.
"In standing to the southward, froiii ahrcast ol' Capr^ St. Mary, with the wind siuilh-
westerlv, a shi'pwill have Iroiii I -^ to -J I or •.'■'> fathoms when in the latitude of Lobos,
and ahniit I'.' or 1'! leagues to the eastward of it; and, iiiakiiifi; a S. .S. K. cmirse, the
water will then shoal to Ir^, 16, rj, or 1 1 latiioius, in crossint; the ridi'e, which is i;(!ne-
rally eoiiiposcd of sand, ;;rey speckled, mixed with .stones, lu-reahouts; after which the
depth increases jiradiially to I'.') or •"■*> fathoms, ov«'r a sandy bottom, in laiitude ;;.") ' 40'
S. and lonnitiide o.'i ' -J.'/ W. In the latitude (d' .'!()" S. and 1") or-Jil miles farther to the
eastwiud. ymi will deepen off the hank cnlir(dy. A ship, havin:.' i;of as tar to tin; south
as .'J<> ' .S., may coiisider liers(dl in t\\v fair way lor proceediii;^ up on the south sidt; of
the Kniilish Hank ; and, if tlu' wind servo, a true west course may be made good.
"In latitude .'id' .S. the depth of water on the meridian of Cape St. Mary, is .'W fa-
thoms, and the bottom line i;rey sand, like yroiiinl peiiper.
" Keepini; still to the westward, on that parallel of .'id S. the depth decreases to 1') or
IHfatiionis, true south of Lohos; and for 10 leagues I'arlher you have irom that to l.'i
latiioins. Milt if from tin; latitude (d" :{(P S.on tin; iiicridiaii of ii(d)os, you make a W.
hy N., or W. by N. h N. course, true, you will shoal tin; water to H or 7.' fathoms, in
latitniie .''.'j^ 4.')' S. on the meridian of the Knulish Itaiik. 'The (luality of the bottom,
i;('iu'rallv, in this track, is saiidv, mixed « iili small stones ; and the nearer you approach
to the rid^e ol' the lOnulisli liank, it is intermixed with hits of shtdls, and smiietimes
with (lay or mud.
"Krom latitude .'J.')"' 4')' S., (h;<' S. of the Kin;lis!i IJank, a \V. N. W. true cmirse fo
latitude .'!.') .'{.'!' S.will hriiu; Mount \'ideo to hear N. hy the world, in about (j.', fathoms,
imid, at the distance of l.'i leaiiues from Point I'iedras; and Irom this position tlu! same
true course may he made to raise the land alioiii I'oint dtd Indio, it' bound up to Hiienos
Ayres; or N. \V. or more northerly, to get sight of the Mount Video; liavinj;; due re-
iiard to the sot of the rurront, iijjor down the river, (hat you may neither he horsed on
the S. K. tail of the Ortiz Flats, nor on tin western |)art of the Archimedes' Bank.
The hotfom above this is soft iiiiid. or clay, in the (dianiuds, lit for safe anchorage. In
latitude 3')^ .'111' S., or ihereahouts, and due south of the Archimedes' Hank, or some
miles further tn the eastward, I have been told by some persons they liave had as little
y as 4 fathoms, hard ground.
" Ships leaving Monte Video, to proceed up to IJiienos Ayres, must be very attentive
I to the lead; and the course steered across the river must ho very carid'ully regulated by
the set of current at tlie time. If the weather be sufficiently clear, the mount is the
most sure guide, keeping it by an azimuth compass, on the magnetic bearing N. K. by
N. ; and when it sinks to an eye in the top, a more westerly course may he steered to
raise the land about I'oiiil del Indio. This direc lion is iiiteiide(l to apply particularly to
frigates, or any ships drawing mor(^ than Hi feet water; because it is not advisable for
[them to cross the tail of the ( )rliz Klats much farther to the westward than a true S. W.
lurse from the mount will take them; for, with a low river, I have had barely .'!j fa-
^thoins. in the Nereiis, with the mount hearing N. .^.'j'' K. hy ccmipass, distant Id ieagii'^s.
I At other times, 1 have sunk the mount on a N. ."jlf K. magnetic hearing, and had as
nnich as ."i.'r fathoms water; but the river was then wtdl filled.
"The Ortiz Hank extends from hit. :vr •,'.'>' S. to hit. .'i.')^ l.'i' S. Shijis fiassing be-
Itween the Ortiz and the south shore, have only to keep the land in sight, to clear the
jbank. On the C'hico Hank, (tlu; smallest of the Ortiz and the most southern,) there i.s
[the wreck of a vessel, the mast of which serves as a beacon, lying about 12 miles cast
l^rom El Erabudo, and 8 or 10 iriiles west from the S. E. buoy on the Ortix, and may b»
C83
ULUM's AMnUICAN t'OAJ'T IMI.OT.
pnssod on cltbrr »iilp, m thrrc nre H t;it}M»iii« very nciir if nil sirournl, iind also fourhium
Tlinn' in a a.tnu\ piiss;i):t* lii'iwrfrri thi' <Jrti/. Hiiiik nnil C'hii'o, willi iiolliiiifj; Iihh tlim] j
t'iilliiiiiis ; tlir < >rii/, sidf is til)' ifrrpcst.
"Soiiiidiii:"', (III ;i|i|irM;',( liitiL' ilir south nid'" 'if tin- Orii/. n;iiik, tiic i-c*;;iil:ir, iuid «li(,;i||.ij
^riidtiidiy. W'lii'ii vdii ^cI j.nril I'Mtniii, k"i |i nil' ;i litili' uinl iIii'Imii iiiio .'I),, 4 ni ^ij.
tliiiiiiM, Nid't iMiid 'riic ii|'|.i(t;irli Id llic Chicii in niil Mile nil llii' ( )|li/. side, as joit^fi
rroiii /i iiilii 'J rmiitiins diri'illy, in khiik* pliicfs, width iiiakcH it HalfMt In krtpon llndr.
tiz Midi' (d llif tiiiddic piiss;ii;i'. 'I'lii' midiilr |iit^Mij;f is Milt iiiud iiiilil very iiiiiri,,
liiiiiks; till' pansiip)' lii'lunii till' Cliiio and llif ^liuic is loi' ilir iiiuni part snli nuid, ;,^.
ill many plaicsit uill r|i;iiii;c siiddi'iily, anil ap|'rai'-i in lie Iniini'd nl' hard ;ind suit
altcriiatrly. \'nii M ill cany .'>',, .').'. and I lallinins in the cliaiim I, and tin- |i;i
from '1 to () miles liroad. Tide rises in tin* rivt-r idioiit /i (ci f in Hciilcd wrailKr.
nd.
■>>sil:;i'
Kor th<; disiiiuci- nf full 1 7 niilcs to thr sniitli-i'aslM ard nl' tlii- ( )rli/. jicainii. tip
pcn«
rally
nil iiinri'
am
I nl'tni less, than .1' ralhntns: ijir linttnm (nii;;li I'lav, iirari.st
hank ; and in ooiut! placfs lartlii-r to the .south-iiastward, Hiil't iiiiid, not iiiun.' thai
(1
lonis.
•' AricrHinkiii^ tlits mount nhoiit N. K. hy N.and havini,' :!', failmnis, a W. S, W.cnin^
will raise till' land, (if the wcailicr is ehar,) alMiiii. INiuit del liidio to ilii" lyeaiiijt
inasthr.id ; and prolialily yon will iini have more than :!|, or at liest, .">,J ralii(iiiis. XIk
mount and land near I'oiiit del Indin are sniiieiihies visilde at the same time.
"I'nint del Indio is in latitude alunil .'!'» K.' S. and 0 .'id \V. ol the Mount V
from which it hears S. d.T' W. hy I lie world, distant .'iO iiiilns. 'I'lu-rc is litllo mm
Kli'n,
I' Mm
.'{ fathoms at the disiancf of 1(1 nr 1 I miles, when the river is in a mean state ; tarti
the southward, and nil I'nint I'iedras, there is only that depth 11 or l'> miles nlVs
Very threat eaiition, llierelnre, is rei|uired in a|i|irnaehiii:; it ; and a constant Im h, ,1
should he kept lor the land, as it is very low, and cannot he seen I'artiier than iL'irl,
miles ill any weather, from the deck of a frigate.
"When the land is handy raised to an eye 1') or 'JO fret ahove tlie surface of llicm
tor, a W . .N. W. mamieiie eniiisc will lead alniit; slinre, hetweeii it and the snnlli pm
the Ortiz, which is distant altniil II miles from it : and lielween tiieni there is im »|„;,
more water than .';', hut iimsily ;;; r;iiiioms. With a hi^h river, I have had a i|ii,ii' .
less l fathoms. The nearer ilie ( )iti/., the deeper the water.
*' In steeriii'i up W. .\. W'., with the land seen from the deck, (if (dear wcatlur,)! t
will have ;!', or ;>! fathoms, vet if the river is It
I'
some casts of ."J fall
Willi"
raise a remarkalde clump nl liees,
called Kniliudn, wlui h are much lallertliaii
llii'i'-'
highest at tlie west end, and lie in hit. ;!■'• l< S., and in Iniij;. 1 Id' .'JO' W.of liic .\|.
Video, or ii?' .'50" K. of the cathedral of I
Mieiios
A)
res.
At some distance to ili
(■»ij[-
ward of the Kmluido trees, there is another clump almiit the same Iieii,'hl ; but tin .1 it-
in}> highest at the east end, are sullicienlly dislin^uislu'd not to he mistaken InrllifUii.
Emliudo.
" When in .'J^ or."}} lathoiiis, tjie Kmliudn lrec:s bear hy comjiass W. .*>. \V., thc^^.E
end of the Cliico IJank will hear W. N. W., or thereahoiits, 10 or 1 1 miles from \m
and you must now deicrmine from the water that your shiji draws, and the liicn mhh
lion of the wind and si;ile of tiie v.eiulicr, Mlielher you will pass lielween the ('liunn
thesiiore, or lietwicn tlie Ortiz and tti<' Cliieo. I have passed iipand down sever;illimrt|
bi'twcen the Chicoaiid the south shore in the Nereus, lii;htened iii her draft to i^l'tf
inches; hut 1 would never attempt it ajrain from choice, now I am hutter ac(|uaiiittiUiii|
the middle channel lielween the ("hlco and the Ortiz, and have every reason to bcl
that the midille unniiid some cliarls l;iy down in it. does nut exist.
Mien I
A ship not draw ini: more than l.j feet may take either passage, ami of tlie twd.nn:!;:
perhaps to prefer thai to the southward oftlie (Jhico liaiik. particularly it" the wind slii.ii!i|
he well to the sniithwanl, as sjie mijilit take her snundinys from the weather slinri'.ici!
keepini; in someuhai more than lier own draft, run up alniii; it, and by nut defj)i'Diiij|
ahove .'{ fathoms, would ensure lieiii<; in tlie southward ol the Chico.
"The S. K. end of the Chico l>aiik hears from the Kmhudo trees, N. ^2^ K., true,
distant 10 miles, and K. ') ' N., 1.'} miles from Atalaya churcdi. Its latitude tlicro hoi'
fiG' ;]()" S., and Innjiitudu 1" ')' \V. of the .Mount \'ideo. 'J'his hank runs in tlir diiec- 1
tion
of N. 31 \\'., true, or N. (>•'> W.. hv cnmnass. ahout l,'} miles to its N. W. t'
'lUi.
which is in latitude .'il ~ is' .jO" .S.. and 17' K. ofUucnos Ayres Cathedral. Fnim i™
N. W. end, in M feet water, Atalaya Church hears S. ir' W., distant 11 miles; ami
Point Santiago. Inrniiiii; the Knsenada de ]5arraf;an, hears \V. 1° N., 11 miles from ii.
The hreadth oftlie Chico does not e\(;eed two miles, or perliajis n mile and a half, aiii
its inner ediie is ahniu ') miles frnm tlii- short
Tl
le water lielween it and tiie slmrcisnol
where more tlian .T.', fathouis, and tlii; deepest water is alonj; the inner edne of the slinal.
at the tlistancc of lialf a mile from it, or less in some jilaces. Ahout midway liciwic
11 1:
and the shore there is a quarter less three fathnniH. On some parts of tlie Chico tlieifl
BLlJrVT'8 AMERICAN COAsT I'lLOT.
683
, !in»l »Un fourbiKni.
• rciiuliir, mill «li(,;il,n
Mil into '.\}., 4 i)r,)|j.
)rli/. <*i<l<', as ji.u ;.i|
h\ III U('i'|i on (III tif.
tl until vt^rv iii'iiriU
isi |)ai't siil'i iiMiil. u.-
r liaiil ami sntt nil.,,
I, anil llif |iii.sMn;i. ^
lilni wcatlnr.
)iti/. Iiiswiiii, iliipi,
u;;li riay. ncarfxt • ,
mil iiiiir*' than '.'^ i,.
IS, a W . S. W. riii.M
lid to tin- i')i' ill I
St, .".J ratliiini.s. Ti,
<:ini<' tiiiit'.
ol tlic Mount Vi(!,i,,
WW i'. Hull' imiiciluD
iicaii Htato; tarthrrlu
or ir> inilcH oil' s||„ie
ul a roii.slant lodkuiii |
lartlier than IL'urL
ho surface of tlio \»j
ami the soiitli |i:iri>:
(•111 then' is tin \\\m
1 liavo liad :i ijUiiiiti
Ifclrar wratlicr,) ym |
i>ts of .■; latlidiiis ;:iil
:li lailcr lliaii tliin^i, |
wr W.of llic.M,.;:i
(listaiicf to lla»t5i-
ii'i^iit ; but tlicscU-
inisiaUcn liirtlieiruf I
\V. S. W.. iIm'S.E
1 1 mill's fidiii Null
, ami the tlii'ii liiM
twi Til till' Cliiriiiir
1 down srviTiiltiii,'
lici- ilial't Id I -lit:
cttrr ai'(|Uiuiiliii»H'
very roason In bi'lieHl
am] of the twii.u'i.'
Iv if till' wiiiil -In
II' wralliiT siiiiit. ..
mil by not dei:|)tiu;
M's, N. ;i-J' K., tni?.
lalilndi! iIkto iso4'
iiiU runs in ihr (lii«-
li's III its N. \V. onil.
ulii'iir.il. Fiomilii'
islant 11 mill's; iii.i
Nm M miles fioni'i;
mile and n lialf.-'"'
it and the sliinch:"
u'l- ed«c of llif ^'i"''
ut miiiwav Initwiiii '
ts of the C'hico liiei*
|< rnry lilll" water, nni\ wiihin tlie liinitH I liavo iitsi^neil to it no moro than H feet.
p Tlieri' >vas, for sonn' year.s, liie mast of a vi-shi'I ealbd llie I'andora, wliieli was wrei:kt;(l
,11 iliiH shoal, ill lat. .'M" f*\' S., iihoiit 'i miles from its S. K. end, which |M'oveil an ox-
ri-lli'iit lieaeon to i^nlde ships iiasoin; il on eiilirr side; bin ii his di-<a|i|ieari'il. It in
'•isary thil thr>'r Inioys should he plaecd on this dangerous slimil, to mark itn
very iieei
(.,. litre mil
ileael
I em
I I'll
\1
'•'I'll ships drawing less iliaii lifieen feet, it is only further necessary In rerommenri
UP and atteniinn on appro ichiiii; I'oiiit St. las^o, which forms hiishy and distinct; nnd
I, I'll il I ' liroituht 'o hear to the soiilh-westwanl, haul out into tlii> stream of :i', f.ithoms,
III I'llM
iii| Hillside ill" si>lt, v,iiie!l milt abolll .\
W
bv ciiiii;ia'w jnini I'oiiil St
iKo at
|i<;isl till i»r eleven miles; its extreme point, in t'.vo fithoiis. iii-iii.; live miles from the
(thiire. Whnii two remarkable trees on I'oint Lara an; bioui;lit lo bear S, by K. ,', K. or
S. S. K. by compass, you are past ihe .Spit. Tills murk will also KmiI u sliip of tint
ilrain:lii lit water ileur lo ilic wi-siward of liie Spit, in ninniii.' in tow nils ilic Kfiscnaila.
'• Alter passim; till- spit ol' I'liinl Si. iii':ti. in.'l' latlimii :. a W. by ,N. mirihcijy course
liv compass will lead up I) tin- outer road of r.iii'iins Aue", where any sliip may Miifuly
aiirlidr in the water she draws, if the river is low.
" Kriijatcs, or any vessels drawiii'^ more thui Id feet wat"r, nIioiiIiI barely raisp ilip land
aliciiit I'liiiit ill 1 111. (id lo till' eye on deck, and borrow iiearci ijie ( ),ii/, : more particularly
sftrasS. W. bv \V. (ma'iiietic ;) for, with
lli'll till" I'liiiliiido trees are binil
'111 t
liear a
ihe Kiiiliudo beariim from S. \V. to S. S. W. ihi- boitom is Hal, olf to ."> fathoms, full 7
miles Iroiii the shore, and ciiielly hard clay, 'i'iieri'fore, when tlie I'lmbiido trees liear \V.
S. W. Iiy compass, and you are about ') or 10 miles oll'siiore, in :>', fatlioms, if you liave a
li'iidiiiir wind. Il nil to the N. \V. by W. or more ninlherly ; in nny be reipiiied to clear
till' S. I'), tail of till' (.'iiico, on w hich a red buoy is placed, and you will soon deepen your
water to I fathoms, ami more in the middle cliaimel, betwt'in the Chico and the Orti/,
Sliiial. 'I'lie fair course lhioii;;h, between them, is about .N. W. Iiy W. ', W. (magnetic,)
iiiiil in midcliamiel the land can biil just be disiin.'^Miislied from the quarter deck of a
friuale. When tiie Kiiibudo trees bear S. -JO \V. by coinpass. you will be abreast of tl
Us. K. Piid III liie Chico, and may either lake voiir slioal
iOl
•0
iiidin.,'s aloiiu its northern or
outer edije, to about a rpiarK r less lour, if llie wind i< soiiiherly. or if the wind be north-
erly, (ir easterly, borrow iiilo a eoiivenieiit lieplli alom; the soiillierii edt,'e of the ( )rti7,.
I heljeve the breadth of this middle chaiiiiei may be live or six miles, and the deptii of
water from l to .'>',, and even U fatlinms, in the lair way. about the N. \V. part of it, ami
alireast that end of the ( 'liieo. 'I'lie ipiality ol'iiie uroiiml all tlii! way ihrouijh this cliaimol
(is Ceiierally soft miid. and lit fo- safe aiiehorai;e.
' "Tlie iN. W. pilch id" the < hico i'lank, on which is a red f{uoy asbefore mentioned,
'bi'inj; passed, and the depth ul' water !} or .').', fuhoms, you may steer by compass W. I)y
N. ', N'. or \V. Iiy N. for Uiieiios Avres. tikiiii: i are not to shoal under i]iiiirter-less four
oil* Knscnada, till l^uinl ii-ira trees bear S. S. I-!. A littli' more than hairway from INiint
Lara to ilueiios Ayres there arc two oilier remarkahli' trees. Wiieii iiiMured olf Ituenos
Ayres, in the Nereus, in 1"! feel water, and ihe botioiii soft mud. tliese trees bore by com-
pass. S. 17 ' K. the catlicdral S. 07 ' W. and the spire of the iieeoleia Convent .S. 76°
W.
variation
lUA E
P. I IK \ WOOD.
ITII»3 RIVER PLATA TO CAPE EIORI¥, FAT.KLAI\D
IISLAIVD!$, ISOIJTn ISHETLAND, &:c.
The con ' of the Pampas, nr plains of Buenos Ayres, extends from the River Plata
ito till! Colorado or IJed iliver. represented in lal. ;i') ' .50' .S. It is entirely tlat, and des-
liliite of harliois. Tlie interior is one v.ist plain, mostly covered with ^rass and clover,
Ihe food of inillions of liorned cattle. The maritime part, noxt the .sea, has iieen called
'y the Spaniards the Pays-del Diable, or Devil's Country, (no very attractive appella-
liiMi,) yet the coast may be approached with safety, as the soundings arc regular.
AIUKL ROCKS — Coastof Duenos Ayres, lat. 40'=' 1' S., long. 57° 37' W. Ror-i,
iBupposed to be above water.
€ Extract from the log book of the schooner Ariel, of Whitehaven, Thomas Dij...Ui
Imaster, on her passage froai Liverpool to Valparaiso, Dec. ii'2, 1827 :
* Thoro is a <;ooJ harbor ut thia place.
584
BLUM' S AiMERICAM COAST PILOT.
^■tW
■ It. . •*.; /
'• At 1 1 hours 45 mirmtes, A. M., tiioderat'.' hroi'zcs from tlic N. K., steering S. H. W,
by compass, saw somctliiii:,' oT a n-ddi-ili apiiearaiice, a little al)()V(; water, at alxiiii ^
(]iiarti'r ol a inili! disiant. i laiiicd iii lor it, soiiiidi'd, and obtained hditiini at 17 I',
fine ^roy sand. 'I'll'- (ilijci't seen
dxint () Ici-'t aliovi' tin' water, ami -JO or ;!0 |
lllllllN,
ii'H in
circuiid't'icMcc, Imt mor(! fxtcnsivc imdcrricatli. W'Iiimi cIosp to. wi? saw aiioilu-r li
at about J or .'{ cables" length to tlie N. K.oltlie (irsf, also of a reddish appearance. 'Ij
sea was breaking over them, with a noise. There was some sea-weed, and a niinihf r
sea-birds about them. These rocks lie in ilie general track oCveisels round Cape 1|„,,
to the west coast o!' South America. The liiitude >va-i obtained liv a ;;o()d incrnli;,
altitude ol'tlie sun, and the longitude, by ^oml lunar ()ii-;ervatiims taken that day, ami |,
chronometric oiiservatiims. Til. 1)1 \ON, Masifi."
UK) .N'HtilvO. — In coming from the ea-;twanl to Kio Nei;ro, the navigator sli
"li:'
endeavor to make tlie land, in ab(»ut the paralbd <it Id -'r.
and ionuitiidc b"J° 1.") W
when he will liist see I'ouil l!a/.a, which will be readily known by three reniaik.i
huuunocdvs. Alter approaching to within one league of this point, he may steer son'
west towards Ivio Neyro. takin:; caie not to (•ouie into less than '> or -i lathonis «:i:,
w'rth a sandv bottiuu.
Th
le shore is a conii'juap.i ,• o
f low
sam
I hill
s. interspersed
lieath and brushwond, until you approach ;)'»■ 'iver, where tlie iiiilocks become m,.
elevated, and .u'c comi)osed of clean uliite sa, d, lyini; iii ridues or iindnlalions, likii,.
waves of the ocean.
About 4 or .") miles south of Point lla/.a, is a singular hillock of brushwood, k.wn-
small slirnl)s io\vard.> the east end, which from tin* sea appears lik(^ a ilrove of en:!.
Eia;iit iiules to the south and west of this, is a remarkable i,'ap. about 'J.', miles had, ;/
the beach. As voii approach the entrance ol' Kio iVciiro, the ran^e (d while sand lull,
will terminate, and the iiioutl; of the river beariiui W. 8. W. appears iiiuh and liltiilU'i
the eastern side. 'I'hi- western point of the river is low, but rises jL^radiially to the Su\v\
JJaranca, which is lii^h anil bind', terminatiny: in a perpendicular |)oiiif, and this |iiiii,'
i.s a table
itid
liu-
■I or •") miles lo the wesluanl.
> 1>^
To enter the hari)or of Kio Ne^ro, without a jiilot, the siuithcast chaiund is to
fcrred ; and you must keej) ahuii; in 4, .'>, nr f> tallKun-^ ot' water, until you bring I'
de Maine to bear N. W. Tiien steer for tin' mouth ol' the river, obsiu-viiu; to keepI'Mr
Welcome, which is a reiu:irkable bluff iiroiiiontoiy. about lU yards open of a Ioh |ii.|i
oil' the pilot's house. These marks are distinctly seen, when Point de Maine, tliiii,;
ern point o( the river. i)ears .\. \V. J?iU beware ol' the llood tide, which sets vim:-
over the north bank: and if your vessel draws more than Kt feet (d" water, you iinwiv
attempt to enter until thri'e (piarters of flood, when you will liive from 'J to •,", faiinii;
of water between the iiank>i, which will deepe
as you approach I'oint de Alaiiir
breakers on the bank are distinctly seen, and with a southerly wind it freijueiiily lip
all round the channel, ilaviiif; passed through bi-tween the north and south ballk^.
l';iN|r!|l
«il.
Will lind 4, 5, and (> fathoms of water, but you must be careful and keep the
point on board until you are inside of the point id' the borras ; by which means yoii
clear the inner bank, which extends two thuds of its leii;:tli oiilsidi' the harbor's iiidu;!:.
In this river, at the town, there are about two hours (lood tide, and conuiKMily alieiitii;;
hours of el)i) tiije, freijueiitly runniim at the rate id' live or six miles an hour. Ihit Hiih
in the mouth of the river the (lood tide runs four limirs, and the ebb tid(> ei^ht limiiv ;
the rate of three and a half miles an hour. It is liii:li water at the bar, mi the il;iy<.
new and full iiiomi. at a ijiiarter past I 1 ; and the water rise-; there 1 I feet on tlie'.|M;i;
tide.;, and f^ feet on the neap tides; but when liie wind blows strmi^ly frimi the S. 1.
the tide rises from I'J to 1-i i'vi^t. There is a reyular tide aloiij; the coast, (> Inuiis llm '
and (> hours ebb, but the (lood tide inclines rather towards the shore, about N. K.b'
N., at the rate oft' (U- .'? miles an luutr. < 'oiise(|ueiitly in entering; the Ivio Ne^ni, |r^
ticular attention must be paid to the currents and tides wliiidi set strongly to the N, t.
round the Point de Maine.
In this river, refreshments of all kinds can be procured.
FALKLAND l.'^LANDS, the .Maluinas of the Spaniards.— These islands Iw
borne dil)"erent names, successively imi)ailed by the idder navitjators. Keretitly tin)
havf I eeii taken j)oss(!Ssiou id", in a Imanal iiianner, as bidoii^inir to the I'liiteil Pro-
vinces of South America. And on account of some outrage committed by the sctllir*
on American vessels, the settlement was broken up by the I'. S. slooj) of war Lcxiii:'
ton, in the year ]r*:il. Since tlieii they have been talieu i)oss(!ssiou of by order ol ll"
British siov.'rnment.
Tlui ish.ndsand isb-ts, in <reneral. appear ei(ually bleak and desolate, presentina b;irrPii|^
shores and naked limestone uiountaius. with no other vegetation than heatli and gn'^
In the low gn.ui:ds a stratum of peat. '.' feet thick, coveru a bed of stone or slatr.
Thf
quadrupeds art wolves ami foxes, w liich earth themselves alike. .Seals and sea birflsarf
innumerable. The advantages wf the i-shuids are their excellent harbors, a climate com
tnonly tein;
nlaimlant.
Ill,' it in ab
ilic sdiitli a
Our infor
!hi' an", III)
u'ry near ;l
IjieiitPiia
Npw ."^iiiith
on the 'J 1st
.«ntVlv to an
priirePils as
'• Our int
\i'w Islanih
I III .Vew Ish
W. by com
the PMtrancf
n binlf, stani
ver Island, a
" As if is
monts, lo ol)
wTitlier trri)
iliiiik that a
" llaviiiir I
stronjtj, and
iipfpssity eiti
pas<;i2e amoi
iiiil down in
brought us t(
h:inil, a few
near eMnu<,'h
a steep side,
Hh ,1,'ivpn it t'
51' ir soiit'i
hi" liriiunht I
(Ibservinj; th
r;,'lit astern z
tiin'e huinmii
on the left is
ill both, but fi
filler form n
th" tides of f
the rocks on t
iniist go in, u
.riiiiain!! here
is a sandy bea
water to anclii
iflfiil a westerlv
jhe get under
Five smal
together, bear
'lenvc them on
'cnse when we
she attended to
.,fes we were ca
llnin is very foi
*liiiiild the wii
'I'daiiil, if she i
jlioitoin, within
|c;irry a vessel i
' " It is propi
^ler left hand,
4iianl side afte
lying at a cons
Teiable to runn
^"umi^iiii,, k
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
E., steering S. S. W,
i)V(! Wiiifr, lit alioiii ,1
Ixitliiin iit 17 I'iilliiiiiiN,
■, iiiiil 'Jd Di :;o icitii,
wv s:i\v aiiiitlicr In .ii,
ish iipiK'iirimcf. 'ri,,.
'('(>(l. iiiwl a niiinlxr .|
els nmml ( ";i|)i' linn. ,|
il liv ;i ;;()()(l incriilio
iilvfii lliiil <lav, ami \.\
DIXON, M";\st('r."'
tli(< iiMvi^iitor sliiiii!,!
loiiuiludf ()-J° l.VW,
liy tlin'i' n- murk. I"
t, he iiv.iy steer sdi-;;.
(i or H rjitlioiiis wMn
ills, inti'rs|)crsi'il in;!,
iilldcks litToim- Hint.
r niiiluhirniiis, likr 'i.
of hrushwontl. Ii;i\:i.;
liU(> i\ drove ol' nnl.
iholll 'J', miles hiirki)!
Hire of wiiile siiml ||ill<
lears lii^li aii<l liliiiin';
<;ni(Uiiilly to the Smiil
point, iiuii tllis |iiiii;
ist cliiiiinel i.s lo In. |i|.'.
until _Vo\i brim; I'w!.'
)liserviiin tr) keep I'mn'
■(Is open of ;> low |iii:!,i
int (le .Maine, llir la.;-
ide. which sets •^imii;
of water, voii now 111',
from •.' to •,>', fallmm |
)int de Maine. T
I it lre((nenll_v ImiKS
md south l)aiik<. \iii;
and keep llie i';i>iitD
which nu'an.s yeiiwill
the harhor's itiDUlli,
eonunonly aiiiiiitte j
s an hour. I!iit«iih-
lit tide eiL'hl liiiin\'.
u- liar, on the ijiiy^u!
I feel on the <\mf:\
i)wj.\\ Irom the S.I
cijasi. () iionrs llod'
ore, alioiit N. Y..'<i]
^ the Kill .\"e::ro, |m'
stron'ilv to the N.f'.
— These islniwls \m
ators. IJecently ilu) I
;: to the Tnited W
imitted hy the seiilirM
sloop of war Lexin;-
jion of liy onlerot'il''!
late, presentiii;;li;i"''^'
than heath and p'l-
f stone or slatf. 'H''
Seals and sea hirrfsJr'
inrl)or.s, a climate cum
monly temperato and healthy, but subject to great vicissirude.s. The running waters are
nliiindant. Thouijii tlu' islands have no wood, there is no want of fuel, the peat afford-
iti,' it ni abundance. Lar^eciuantilies are sometimes found, which appear to come from
ihc south and west.
Our nifornnition with regard to the islands i.i yet imperfect. The positions in the ta-
ble are, however, given as nearly as we could obtain them. We believe that they are
very near the truth, especially in the western poi'its.
liieiuenant (irant, commander of the f^ady Nelson, in the relation of liis voyage to
New ."^iiuth VV^^les, has given some usefn! remarks on these islands. lie states that,
on the "Jlst .January, l."^()J, having before intended to touch at these islands, they came
sat'civ to an anchor iii Hope I5ay, or J Jttle West Point Harbor, in the N. VV., atid then
proceeds as follows :
'•Our intention had been first to touch at a cluster of island.s to the westward, called
New Islands by the Americans, who are the most constant visitors of Falkland's Islands.
(»ri New Islands are found plenty of goats and hogs. They lie about .'{() miles ,S. S.
W. by comj^ass Irom West Hay, as a N. N. K. course carried us from them clear to
the entrance of West Poi.it. They are distinguished by a particular saddle island and
n liliilf, standing separately froiu each other. Thry are a little to tiie northward of lea-
ver Island, and may be easily found by the two remarkable islands just mentioned.
" As it is of the greatest coiisc(|Uciu'e to mariners, when in want of water or refresh-
ments, to obtain every possible information in order to secure a port amongst this foul-
HPither group of isl mils, which jiurpose may be defeated by the smallest oversight, I
lliiiik that a U^w remarks made in the run may rmt be unacceptable.
" llavinir made New Islands, the westerly wind, which generally )>rcvails, blowingvery
strong, and in sfnialls, would not permit us to anchor. We were therefuro under the
iipcessity either of making the harbor of West Point, or running in the night through a
pas<a!;e among the ,Ia«.ons, well known to be full of rocks and shoals, many of them not
i liil down in any chart. 1 have bei'ore observed, that liO miles N. N. E., by compass
brought us to the entrance of West Point Harbor. In this run there are, on the right
Iniid, a few small flat islands, called Pass Islands. 'JMiese ought to be kept on board
near enough to see the surf breaking on them : and soon after a remarkable island, with
a steep side, will present itself, having the appearance of a split in th.} middle, which-
hts given it tli'> naivie of Split Island. Here we observed the latitude, at noon, to be
,Sr 1 r sout'i, when it bore K. N. E., by compass, distant tliree miles. The split must
bp liroughf to bear south liy west in running in. and north by east in coming out.
|()bserving this, a vessel will fnid itself in the tair-way ; and right ih(;ad coming in. or
.r:zht astern going out. a si:;ht will be had of West Point erUrance, making at first like
tiiri'e hummocks, to the right of which is the moutii of the hariior.- The small harbor
on the lel't is pref'rable to the larger one on the right. lhon;;h anchorage may be fotind
in lioth, but fresh water may more r(>ailily be had in the little harbor. Iloth these to-
gether form nearly an oval, divided by the passage which runs directly through, where
llu' tides of flood and ebb alternately eiUer. .\ vessel must therefore haul close roimd
the rocks on the siniili side, to net into the little harbor tor the ebb tide, with which she
must go in, unless it blir.vs very strong, so as to etialhe her to stem tlie flood, both tides
.rumiing heie with areat ia()idity, and ivlu'ii it blows hard raising a confused sea. There
is a sandy beach at the top of the harbor, off wliidi a vessel may choose her depth of
Wnter to anchor in. In going out of the liarbor, the northern passage is most eligible;
and a westerly wind, with a course N. by K., by compass, will carry a vessel out, provided
she get under way at the lir.-t ol'the ebb.
' Five small perpendicular rocks, called tlie Needle Keys, appear when out, standing
ogether, bearing N. E. by E , or thereabouts, from the harbor's mouth. It is best to
eave them on the ri'.;ht ; but should there Ik; little wind, ami the tide strong, as was the
icase when we passed them, a vessel may go close to the right of them, 'j'he tide must
healtendetl to, as it runs strontrly betwixt them. The water close to them is very dee[),
B.s we were carried by the tide near euouah to throw any thitig upon them. The bot-
oin is very fmil, so that if an anchor is let go, it is a chan( e if it is ever recovered ; and
liiiiild the wind coiuiiute light, the tide of flood making, a vessel may anclior at Sedi'O
*Ii|a!iil, if she can ^et as fir down, where 10 fathoms water will be foiinil, with a sandy
iiiitoni, within -J or :'. miles of the shore. From Sedge Island, a N. by E. course will
•cany a vessel clear out to sea.
i "It is proper to obsurve here, that if a vessel is olillged lo leave the Needle Keys on
licr left hand, the nearer she kei>ps to them the better, and even to haul over on the lar-
tiianl side after she is past, as she will have the more room to weather a ledge of rockit
Ivinijata considerable disiance out from Saundor's Point. This passage is much pre-
jjfeiable to rumiing through the Jasons.
* 74
11^
.": ' ••
5SC
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
" Falkland's IslHtids hnve been doscribed by many voyaj^ors, wliose stay tbrrp (-j,,,
them belter oppditiinity of oljservation. I sliall just observe tlial they lie very eonvi m,,,,
for being touehed at on loii<; voyages, when there happens such a necessity tor a su|ir,|v
of seasto(Mi as we (,'xpcrieneed.
"The soil is light, i)rodueinii a stronc grass, known by the name of ttissaek, wliid, ,,
set fire to, the turf will burn tor a considerable time ; and notwiilislaudiiit; beavy miu,,
it is not to be extinguished. 1 saw but lillie tindicr, and even brushwood did not ;i),jini
to be in plenty. Few birds are to be seen, but geese and penguins are in great nnnilHr>..
"We found the geese excellent eating, without the least taste of (ish, as tbey jivm
grass and sea-weed. Celery was fcuind growing plentilhlly. We used it freely, aju,
anti-scorbulie virtues art; well known.
" We found an American ship lying here, called the Washington, of Nantucket. ||.,
commander, Jedediah Fit/, informed me that the Aiiieriean sailors have discovcinl j,„.
tatoes eaten raw to be a |)owerful anti-seorbutie, and that tlieir whaling v'jssel.«s im.
stantly took a quantity wilh them to sea, to eat raw. as an antidote against the sen,,,
He had planted a ganlt'ii here, as was tlie inistom with \essi Is visiting: ihis place, iiinii,
brouglit some potatoes I'resli dug iVoiii it, which he lecoinmciuled me lo laste, alttr-;,
ting me an example. 1 complied, and must say tiiat 1 liave before taken a iiiini' .
palateable medicine. He made use of the young leaves of the common doc k, Ik ,
them as cabbage, to eat wilh his meat. I le siripjied the lealfiom th'' rib or sk m i; ; .
middle, which he said l/ad a purgative- (|uality. lie made no usr- of the ct'jcrv. ,,> .
tlmught the dock was preferai)le to it. I dined willi him on board his ship, when i, ,.
of the latter vegetable was served upon table, and u|)on eating, 1 thought its tastt i
unpleasant."
it is to be observed that the Eastern or Ijittle Island has never yet been regiil;!iivM;f
veyed, and its true (igure is yet unknown. Many dangers not yet laid down ij i^,
charts may therefore exist in tlie vicinity. CM' this there lias lately been a sij.ii,i| (,
ample, in the sudden loss of the French sloop I'ranie, which was wrecked on the l';
of February, 18v.'0, by striking on a sunken rock near the mouth of French Hav. l;,
vessel, commanded by M. Freyciiiet, was returning from her voyage around the w,.
She had been driven by a dreadful storm fromtiood .Success Hay, in Tierra del |'i,i_,
Happily her people and stores were saved, by an American, which happened to Um:
the spot. The account of this accidi'iit is so vague that wi; cannot gain from it ihi • ■
eition of the rock, but it is clear that by French J5ay is meant the iJerkeley ^wiuu;
our charts.
Ca|)tain Barnard, who was inhumanly left in those islands, where he was a ion.i.ti
resident, by the master and crew of a IJritish vessel, whom hi; took otf a wreck, -iiirtl
that all the dangers with wliich he is acqiiainied (with the exception of the rock oim
the Uranie was wrecked, are covered with kelp); and as a rule all the kelp is ii
avoided. Captain King, ot the J\. N., has given some valuable remarks on kelp, in!,,!
survey of Tierra del Fiiego, republished in this volume, to which we refer the n,nlir.
Mr. Wm. .Marsh, of the brig Nancy, IHI.!, has favored us with a rough skeicli olittl
Maluinas, by which it appears that there is a group id" isles at the S. W. end of SkIk;,'.
or the Little Maiuina, which forms a convenient harlxir, the track to wliich is ilciinicaiil
the Chart, Kelp 15ay, to the eastward of this iirmip is full of «ceds.
The late ('ajit. .lolin M'Hride, (d' the l\oyal Navy, kept a regular jourtial of tlifwii;.!
and weather at the Falkland Islands, from 1st of February, 17()(), to I'ilh .laiiuaiy, K'
which was published in 177."), by Mr. Dalrympie. The journal concludes with tiiPk,.
lowing general remarks :
" From looking over tiie foregoina; journal of the winds, for the space ofoiie vciir, tl'l
will be found to prevail in the western (|uarter, and generally blow a close redtil lii|i-i|
gale, with a cold air. Jn Noveiid)er the vfinds begin to be more frecjueiit in llie.N.ll
quarter, generally ha/.y weather, and for the most part blow about l(> or •.'() hours, ffhul
it begins to rain. The wind then ri'guiarly shifts into the westward, and so on, lilUl
pets to the S. W. by S. and S. S. W., when it blows fresh, and clears np. Tlii''S.>,
W. wind continues for about Itj hours, then dies away, when the wind shifts ;i5;uiii«
the N. W. (|uarter. This continues during December, January, and Kelininrv.asii
changes in the manner above meiiiioned. every three or four days. As iMarrli(iiiiif<
on, you have these ehaiiL'es but seldom, and as the winter advances, they arc seliinnii
the N. W. (|uarter, but rallier incline to the E. N. E., which is generally arcein|iniiiii!|
with sleet and snow. There is not the least proportion in the gales between winie'aril
summer, in summer, (as I have before observed.) as the winds are in the westwiinl.llii.'!
blow in such heavy s(|ualls otf the tops' of the mountains, that it is someiiiiics ;iii 1hiii|
before a eiitte-r can row to the shore, althiiii';h the water is smooth, and the dislaiin' ol
hut one cable and a half (»ll. In winter the winds are pent up by a keen frosty air. 'iiil|
most lusting gales are those from S. by E. to S. by W., and arc extremely cold."
ICOAST OF
losp stay tlirrp pnv,.
\'y lit' vciy coiivi m,,,,
lecessity lor a s\i|i[,iv
■ of Hissack. wliicli, ;;■
sliiiidiiit; licavj riiins,
llWUod dill liUt il|>|l,t
■,\rv. in !;riai niiiiiUh.
if (isli, as till')- livf,,(,
i used it iVucly, as i,,
11, of .Naiiiiickct. ||.,
s liavt' disc-()Vfrci!|i|,.
wlialitij; v'sst'ls i.jn.
t(! aj;aiiist tlif sciuw,
iim lliis plate, aim i.
iiic to lastc, altir-e;.
ire takiii a iiiore i;.
(million doik, liniliuj
til'' ril> or sirni inn.,
(■ of the (••■lery. ;i* i,,
I his sliip, \vli(,tj;n':>ii
L thoughl its taste ij,
^•et been reguIiiiivMit
ji't laid ddwii 1,1 |i,
iit'ly lici'U a si<,iiii| (,
is wrecked on ihe 1';
1)1" Kreiicli 15ay. Tu
aj;e around the w.k,:
,, in TitM-ra del \'w,,
li liappcncd to tiir,M
lot jjain tVoin it the in.
hi' iJerkeU'y Sounds:
i-ro lie was a loir.'!i-t
• k uir a wrt'L'k, • !H
n ol'tlif rock uimiiifk
all the kelp is ion
marks on kelp, iiiliii
wi" relcr I lie rcidcr.
a r(ui;ih skeicli oiiu
\\^ end ol'-SiilfW,
to which is ilen(it('(i;i|
s.
ir journal ol tla-Mir i
r)th .lanuan, K'
includes with llifK,
pace ofoiieveiir, ii/il
a close reeliil Iii]h|
l're(|uent in llie N.'
Id or -'11 hours, hIiiiI
ward, and so on, liiul
lears up. Tlii'^S.M
e wind shifts iii;;iii:H|
y, and Kelirnaiv.aril
ys. As March imvl
es, they arc seldom ii|
renerall'y arc(iin|iaiii"'
es between wiiitrMii
in the westwanl.tlu'll
is sonieiiiiies an 1
h, and the dislmiif »!
keriilVosty ;tii- '^^'
treiuely cold."
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
587
In Jannarv and Fehmary, the thernioinetpr several times rose to 59°, but no higher.
iiiAu^n-!t, it once fell to •/() . hut was seldom lower than ;'.-J .
Of the isles, in general, Captain .M' Bride said, " We I'oiind a mass of islands and bro-
ken lands, hi-aten by storms almost perpetual, ^'et this is summer; and iC the winds
ol winter hold their natural i)roportion, those who lie but -2 cables' length Crom the shore
nuisi iiiss weeks wiiluuit having any cominunicaiion with it."
JiKKhKJjKV sol Nl» is the I'lierto de la .'^idedad ol' the Spaniards; nndit wnuld,
nerliiips. bp more proper to !;ive it that desii;natioii. It was at the i\. W. part of this
harlior that the French, under M. de l5ouj;aiin ille, had their settlement in 1T()4, as no-
ticed iiliovc. A narticular plan ol it is uiven in the journal of (he voyas:e, by whicli it
npiiears to be more than a league wide at the entrance, exlendinn east and west :! leaijues,
til I'inr inlands which lie in the inner part of the harbor: three on the north, and one on
the south side, 'I'he latter is the lar<j;est, and is called l*eii<.'uin. or liurnt Island. 'I'lirt
soundings to the space beiweeu tliesi. islands, decrease I'rom "JO lo 7 I'athoms ; and witliin
the islrs Irom 7 to '.i fathoms. Here, therefore, a ccmvenient slielter may occasionally
be liiiiiid. and a div's -jport. if i'.e->iiable. aiiion<; Jieese, bustards, ducks, seals, tVc.
L'AKil.K SHOAL. — This slioal was seen on the 1st of ( >clober, If^H. Mv. Poole
places it in latitude ;'>1° ;">!' S. and loni'itude bl .')ii' W. It extends about north and
sDiiili, breakinir very hi','h in an extent of -iUO or .■|()l) yards. The shi|) was then sieer-
in^ S. H. and about three (|uarteis of ;i mile from it off and on. .Steering south, about
\!i mile, had soundings in H7 fathoms.
L'AHiLK ItOCK. — This rork is also reported by Captain Saloy, cotumamler of tlie
French bris; of war L'Alerl, who plai es it in lat. .51 ' 4.')' S. lon;i;. ()'>'' HI' W. having
Kiniidinus in a few feet water, vorky bottom. Also seen by several inerchant vessels,
line ol which lowered a boat, anil soumled on it. A depth of only a few feet water was
I'liiuid, .tnd tlie surface of it, neeordini; to the lead, seemed to lu; very uneven. Capt.
Salov also reports that the sea always breaks on it. The jaisiiion of this rock rendeni
it i'\ceedini{ly daii'ierous to vessels uoiiiij; round Cajie Horn into the I'aeilic, us it lies
nearly midway between the I'alkland Islands and the South AaierieaJi Coast.
E/iST AI\D ^VEST PytTA«o:\IA, STRAITS OF ]!IA-
<;amiae\s, ai\d the sea coast of
TIERKA DEf^ Fl E<>iO.
[From the Survey of (."apt. P. P. Kmn, 11. N. F. R. S. ic]
'COAST OF PATACiONIA FJIO.M I'ORT ST. ELENA TU CAPE VIRGINS.
I In the f.)llt)wiiif' Direetifiri.s all the lirariiit,'s. whicli are not otherwise distinpuislied, nre corrected
fir Variation. The latitudes boiiit' all south, mid the Icniiziiiides west of (Jrecnwich, and tha
.nriatioii easterly, tlir disiinijriiishinf,' letters S. W. and H. have been oiiiitted.]
POKT ST. ''LENA.— The plan in the Admiralty Chtirv, which is a copy of the
fxpelleiit anil correct survey by the ollicers of the .Spanish ships Atrevida and Descu-
liierta, is sufficient for the naviijator; there is ;>lso a ])lan in Weddel's Wiyaije that is
|i'ipiallv I'.orrect. 'i'he hariior may be easily known by som«' hummocky hills on the N.
E. projpctin'j; point, on the eastern of which is a remarkable stor.t^ that a]ipears to have
'been plaeed there as a monumcnial record, but which is a uaturi'i iiroiliiction. The best
anchoraiie i-, at the N. W. corner of the b.iy, in U or 7 fathoius, but not too near to tlie
fihore, l"or when the sea is heavy the iirouiid swell breaks for some distaiu'e oil'. In
working into the bay the •.' lathom bank must be avoided, for which the low island is a
good mark.
The projecting head at the jiurth end of the bay is in
Latitude.' J.p 30' 4.')"
Lon<;i(vide by the mean of ][i chronometers from Coritti, (Kiver Plate,) b.')^ 17' 26"
Variation of the compass 1<)" ]l)'
H. \V. at full and change, 1 o'clock.
rise at .springs, 17 feet.
The water that is contained in the wells, the situations of which are given from Mr.
iWeddel's plan, is too brackish to be worth consideration; nor is there any fresh water
to be obtained from any part of the hiirbor. Of luel, a temijorary supply may be pro-
588
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PHOT.
cured from the small shrubby tree that is described in the account of Port Desire, wliidj
is t(ileral)ly iibiindaiit Ix re. (iuanacoes, ostriches, arma'iillos, iind llu- laviw, or }'„•
goiiian hare, are to be procurpd, as arc also wild div^us, juir! 'id}.'e>., i nip' • , and rji;;.! ; | ,
lish seem to be scarce. The utianaco alVords ;ui excellent food, but it is diliicult to
proach them: one that was slntt by us, when ch ai.cl •• i' s i u ;i,Hv»ighed ]iH do .„,.
The Indians sometimes visit this part of the coast, ^.hicli '■ used ')y tiiem pnociiKiHv
for buryinj; tlieir dead.
In approarhint: I'orl St. Klena from tiie northward, tliee .tie icvijrTl rocks near I'ne
shore which arc very little above the water, and there is a ci.nsideraLle reef in the (iliiv,
Bituated 4[ miles S. Tr*^ H. from Cape Kaso, and N. 51" K. 8 milis from the \. K. ti(..,|
of tlie north head of the port. It is a dry rock, and is near the extremity of a rm (
which i)robai)ly projects olf from the liticr point, for thert; are two dry dock.' in i|ie
same line of lit arin;;, one 1.1 milt; and the other ',i\ miles from the point, besides sevci;
})atches which break. The tide sets tatlier strong alonj; the shore, which is (Vontt-un
reefs for 2 or 3 miles olf; great caution >liould therefore be used ;n approacliiiii; ;;
coast, as the water is deep, and if becalmed, it may 1;;; necessary to anch(u-, wlijtlm,,,
be in at least 30 fatlion.s water.
Should the above reef be as continuous as it appears, there sh uld be f,'ood ridin.ia
the bay between Cape Kaso and I'ort St. Klena.
Between the south head of Port .St. MIcna and Cape 'i'wo liays, are two biehlj. inii.^
coast, tilt! soiithermnost of which is (;oMsiilcrable and may probably alford a fjooii .ii,-
ciiorai;e. Cape Two J$ays is a rounded point ; the hill close to the sea on the ii,m<i
j)rojectmg part of the cape being in lat. 11° 58': the small islet of Arce, to the sninh-
east of the cape, is in lat. 45° 0' 50", and )jn. G5° 25' i.'5"; and Rasa Island is in lai.
4*5° ()' :](l". Ion. Grp -20' 11".
The coast trends westerly round Cape Two Bays, and forms the northern part ol >i.
George's Gulf.
The southern limit of St. George's (Julf, Cape Three Points, is very easily discnven;
at sea by its very level ouUine, being a long range of talde land, higher than any pr;
near it, visible from the deck for more than "JO miles ; and to the south-east, (kt;iilii
but near the rani;c, there is a conicid hill, which is easily discerned from the nortli«,r:.
but (Vom the norlii-east is not seen, being concealed by ilie langes of land beliiiid ii ■.
the south-west. At b' miles to the south-east of Cape 'i'!;iee Points is Ca|)e Hlun >..
a low rugged tonsrue of land, terminated by a rounded but very rugged iiillock and Uo
smaller ones; wl;irh, when (irsi seen, appear to l)e i'^lands detached from the ('ii::>!.
The neck of land which t'orms the coiuinunication with the coast is low and sanciv, :::.!
proliably oilers, on its south side, slielter iVoin southerly winds.
There are several shoals off this part of the coast, tli.'f at low water would doiihi.-!
be dangerous. His Majesty's .Sliip Adventure, passed ovr two, and had not less iIkih.j
fathoms, but possibly at low water the deplli may be coi.s'.decably less; they are llinm
up by the force of the tide, which sweejjs rounti the cape, into and out of .St. George*
Gulf, with great strength.
The north and soutli ends i-f the northern shoal bear respectively from Cape Tlim
Points and Cape Blanco ;• -i, .listaiit from the former 7 miles, and from the la'.trr;
miles, consei.uenlly it e>, ; ■ i' in a N. by W. anil S. by K. direction for 5^, miles: it ;
scarcely a (piarter of a I'lii. ivide.
The north end of the southern shoal bears S. 75° E. 7 nules from Cape Bliuico, aii
extends in nearly a south direction for :! miles. 15etween these shoals there is a pa^sa;;
2 n)iles wide, and the de[)th gradually increases to nu)re than 15 fathoms.
Within the outer shoals are 2 otliers seen by the Sjiiuiiards; they are laid down lioa
the authorUy of a chart coninuuiicated to me by Don Feli|)e Bauza. 'J'he uuier nuri!;-
em shoal is probably the one noticed by CJommodore Byron* who described it to Ijmi
from Cape Blanco W. S. W. .'; S. 2 leagues, the de|)th diminishing, as he approadieilit
from the eastward, tVom Hi to 7 fathoms. 'ITiere is, Imwever, much shoal gi-ouiid tolhe
north-east; for in the ye;ir lH-20, having ;ipproiiched the land, and being 14 miles Ircm
Cape Three Points, bearing S. 38'^ \V. mas;, the depth rather suddenly decreased Iroin
40 to 14 fathoms, pebbly bottom, so that the foul ground extends for 14 or 15 niiloto
I
* Shoah off Cape Bhturn. — Mr. Pimpson's Journal Fnys, " Found vnrinns snundinp.'', the i^li'^a'
est water 7 fitlionis oil a lnuik. Then Cnpc lilnnco Vow .'^. W. by \V. ^ AV. i2 lc!if.'i:iF. ami
Bouibiiiosl land in I'iulit south. This slionl .^hows itself by a frrrnt rippliii^r; vve hail 13 Aiili : ■
without it, c' 'SP lo the ripidintr, and were soon over it and sircrcd dirrctlv in for the Inr.d. I't
water poor, aflcrdet penrd very fust; at one Icnpi.c Iron' tl c fhoic wc hnd 42 fnihin .•■■."
Till.! shoals, thrref.ire, that the Advctilure pnpFcd, arc the f-nuie ns the above. IlnwhtfV' •
ban d'NihtlcHS made ati mroncous extract from the Cutumudorc's Journal, ill UcBcribing them luUl j
fourinsiettd of two ieap.ics off tUe shore. f -
;he norih-f
iMlliin the
(•nines irie
mat by atn
avoided.
A good I
hillock of
ble iVoin til
Thp Hoot
whlih .igle
iieii;iiliorh(
produce St I
There IS
that the di~
pared uiili
too soiithei
a.ssigned to
above retell
The ci.a-
witliin the (
patches of
.my known <
within that
with a sliiiig
point of the
point of that
I'roDi this bli
which the d
ledge ; it op
Desire, or m
in (>[ fathom
Tills situatio
mile and a h
lioltimi being
uiound, althi
rose iVoin (>,'
PORT 1)1
strength id i
severid rocky
anchor.ige oli
will he seen,
ally is, wesK
slack water ;
llie somh sIk
ook out for I
ol rocky gro
i entrance to tl
the north she
The river \
tance.t Fo
• Ciipi Blnn
47° 15'. Mr.
of what ou, oh
t Soino year
pose it was sot
mains of a IVui
: I'int Vi'sii
thinks the Inst
"hip should be
:i;i uvi-red ; .sii
The Journal
*wo miles S. V
'!• to point the
rr<T, t Bpsive, wliid,
1 lh» tiivi;., or )',
nip" ■, and ralis ; i ,(
it it is dillicult lo
vpighed Ifrt no,.,,,,.
I '))■ them pnucipullj
evernl rorks nc;ir I'nf
Lie red' in tlu- oHh,,,
iVom the N. K. im i
oxiicMiily (if a rul^e
wo dry doikf iu ihe
point, besides sevir:ii
•, whicli is iVohtcd i\
li in approiiciiiiii; ::
to aiiclior, wliicii Wi,|
uld be good ridin;; ;a
. are two biyhts inil.e
d)ly all'ord a itiodd n,-
I the sea on the 11,1.1
f Arce, to the soiiih-
liasa ishiiid is in lit.
e northern part ul .St.
very easily discoveni
higher than any p 11
south-east, dei'.uiii \
(1 Croin the n(iitii»<r
•s of" land bcliiinl 11 .
'oints is Cape Hliinv.
iiiliied hillock aiid l«;
cht'd iVoni the (ii;>:.
is low and sandy, .ul
iter would douljlle.s
id had not less tlumo
CSS ; they arc tliin»'.
out of St. Cieorjf!
•ly from Cape Tliret
■Uld from tlie Jiittfr ;
ion for i)l miles; it.^
rom Cape Bliinco, ;iic
als there is a pussasij
ithoms.
[■y are laid dowti fnini|
I. Tlie outer iiurit-
described it to Will
:, as he approaclieilii
1 shoal ground to lb]
being 14 miles li'
leidy decreased rrMiii I
for i4 or 15 miles 10
Ills snundinps, tlie slwa
i W. 52 iciijrucs. niidttf
iig ; we had 13 Aitii i;:?
in for tlie land. TS'.t
42 fn I ho n-s."
nliove. IIa«lafV'^';s
in dcBcribiiig ihcm '" ■*
BLUNT's AMERICAN CO.iST PILOT. 589
;|io north-past of the ea;)c, the edge of the baidt, (11 fathoms.) being idiotit P or 10 mdee
williiii therfoiHidlngs tf • '..ihems. Un appr(»ach: lig it, the (|uality of the boitom be-
comes irregular, and changes f'om 00/e to sand. :.iid the shoal patches are pebbly; so
iii.Tt by attention to the soundings aiid nature of the bottom, tin ye shoals may be easily
avoided.
A iiood mark to avoid them is, not to approach :.o 1 .ar to tlie c ,ipe a."* tc «v c tlie ruggi u
hillock of ("ape Ul inco, aim to keep the high land of Cape Tlirce rmnts, which is visi-
ble iVmn the tieck, a! out 20 miles, on the "norizon.
'i'lic llood or noithcily tiiie (teased iti the oiling .it 1h. 15' after the moon's passage,
which .igrces very well with the establishment of the tide oil' i'diguin Ishmd ; but in the
nemliliorhood of the cape and among the shoals, the tides may be less regular; they
produce strong rippli'iirs, and set with cotisider:d)le sirtiglh.
There is reason to think that the two ea[)e,s* are laid down erroneously in latitude, and
that the distance betwei'n them should be greatc r; for by a latitude observed at se;i, com-
paii'd with yood bearings of the two ea])es, the error of the chart would be seven miles
too soiiilierly. We hail no good opporfuni y of investigating this jioint, and the situation
assigned to them i.-. taken from tlie chart comnuiidcatcd to me by JJon Feli[)e ljau:'.a,
above referred to.
'J'lie coast line between Cape lilanco ;,iid Port Desir" has been imperfectly seen;
« llbiii the distance of three to live mile.s (r> tm the shorv!, how ever, there are several small
patches of loi k. which uncover at half tide, but beyond that belt the coast is liee from
aiiv known danger, and may be approai lied by sounding in not less than II or l-'i fatlHims :
within that limit the ground is foul. 'J'o the northward of Port Desire the land is low,
with a shingle beach, excepting for the fust .'i miles, where it is high ami clilfy. The north
point of the entrance of the bay is a steep Idull', wliich is remarkable iti being the only
ponit of that description along the coast to thi! nortliward. At three miles N. "iH^ K. mag.
from this blulf there is a ledge of rocks (Surrel's Ledge,) a (juarier of a mile without
which the depth is 13 fathoms. Tlie 'i'ower Ilock becomes visible alter passing this
ledge; it opens out when the north blulf bears S. ."">() W. mag. A ship bound to Port
Desire, or merely w ishing to anchor in tlie bay w hich fronts it, may procure a good berth
in (jj fathoms, at low water, well sheltered from N. ^ W. to S. .')(H K. mag. with the
North bluff bearing N. 'l'^ ' W. i
Tower rock N. >^-2\ \V.\ "Mir^netic.
Penguin Island S. 50] W. S
This situation being a little to the southwartl of the fair way of the port, and about one
Hide and a half from the nearest shore, is (itiite out of the strength of the tide; the
lioltom beiii^ strewed with rounded stones, is rathi'ir foul for hemp cables, but tlie holding
I'lound, although of such suspicious (juality, seemed to be good; at this place the tide
rose from b,' to ')', fathoms, a dillerem e of 16.' feei".
Pl^)RT ])KS1RK. — The river of Port Desire has rather a dillicult entrance, froi' the
strength ol the tide and its narrow v'.idth, and it i^ rendered still more confined i'rc, i
several rocky reel's that extend oil' the north shore to nearly mid-ciiamiel. 'J'heie is " .■.■!
anchorage otf the mouth. IJy waitinir, therefore, for low water, all the dangers thn' . j,t
will be seen, and the vessel easily dropi in with the tide, should the wind be, as it i- mor-
ally is, westerly. If it be fair, it is advisable for the ship to be in the entrance ,it
slack water; or. if the breeze be strong enough, a little before: as the water is deoji >a
the south shore, there seems to be no real danger that may not he avoided by a careful
look out for kelp, which always grows upon, and therefore jilainly indicates the exist'Mee
of rocky ground. The course in is about S. Tb^ \V. mag. anil the distance from the
entrance lo the anchorage is one mile and a half. The ancliorage is olf the ruins f on
the north shore, and the vessel sliould be moored: tlie tide sets in and out regularly.
The river was examined for lb miles, but is probably navigable to a in:icli g.ealer dis-
i tance.J Four miles above the ruins there is a small peninsula, connected by a narrow
* Ciipi Blanco.— The Spanish chart, from which I have laid down the cape, places it in latitude
472 15'. Mr. Simpson's Journal describes it to be in latitude 47-3 lU', which is only 2 miles short
of what (Ml. observations made it.
t Sonic years since, a Spanish colony was founded at Port Desire, but not nnswerinp the pur.
pose it was soon afterwards given up. The ruins of the ediliccs, which are of stone, and the it?.
; innins of a fruit garden, that at our visit produced quinces and cherries, distinctly point oet the spot.
t Fort Degiie.—ih-dw recommended the river to be entered at vnunc flood, but !\li. Sinipsoti
• thinks the Ipst (piarter flood to bo the best tini\ If the latter be adopted, 1 would advipe that the
Hup should be anchored otf the entrance durin ^ the low water, in order to see the banks and rocks
uncovered ; since they will not be visible after luilf tide.
The Journal also mentions that the Coinmodoie found a small run of good frpnli xtater at about
: uvo miles S. W. of the Tower Rock. Tliey fdled live or bix tuns of it. A p.j|.> was erected neai
{ 1!, to pomt the spot out to future visitors.
^^'A
0-
590
TILUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
smm-f-^
,,.^*^*«^f|
isthmus to the narlh I'hnro; \>y suitliti^ ;i i)iirty "p, and stiitionirii; iiu'ii witii {:iiiis ourhc
isthmus, it is nry !ilioly ihut sfvciiil ;j;iiiniii((i»'s may he sliiit as llicy ;u«Mlrivfii iicrii.ssit;
for tiic petiitisiil.' is thcu' lavorilr place to I'l'i'i! U|)iiti. 'I'licsc animals arc very ahuiidiiii!.
but iitilcss ulrarD^'Mii he u.fil, ilioy nrc vt-ry fiiliiiiili, liom llu-u- i-liyui'ss, ti> he appiinu h,,],
'JMierj Tre s )iui* walcr holes iic.ir the rums, wliicli <>('Mcrally cimtaiu wairr, iiiit o|^,
Itrat'kish a (|uality its scarcely U; l>«^ wortli iioiicf. 'I'he wood, aliliou^h «d titv small m/,.
bums well, aud is mueli prized l»v sealers lor that (juality; it is a low shriiljliy tree, hear,
in:; a yellow flouer, with a jfrickle at the extremity of »;very leal'. 'IMie .seiilers (mI: ,1
pircdlo, Irdiii the small diiin n-^ioas of the stem. The roots also are diii; up and u^i]
tor fuel.
The outer side ol I'enmiiii Island is Indd, and may be passed very close withniit dni;
j;pr, for tin; tide rath-T sets oil' than towards the shore. The tidt; is very rapid, ^1,1
<orms, even in a calm, sirom: ripplinu:s, whiih in a bree/.e must be very danyenms 1 1
boats to passthron^li, and, indeed, noi aa;rceal)le lor vessels ol' any NJ/.e. The llixnj ,, ,
(o the northward, and it.niiii; its streimth, at more ihan :; knots : lor we I'ouiid the 1 hi ■
have set us I,') miles to the south in 6 hours. ( HI" the island, the hii;li naier, or the ;,
niination of ihe northerly stream, takes place at ahoul 111. or Ih. 15m. alter the iihihh,
passable; which is .'1', or -1 hours at least at'leif it is hi;;h water at tli<' shore.
SKA MKAIv BAN", is one of the best anchorai^es that I know of on the coast, Im:
is dilficull of access, without a leading and a lie>h wind, on account of the streir^ili L
the tides, which set to the norlliward ihroiiijh the narrow channels separating the mui
islets thai arR strewc 1 between l'ein;uin Island and the main land. The bottom, btside,,
is not only deep, -J;S to .'<() fathou\s, but is very foul ami rocky ; and althoii<;h a shipniK
be prevented from drilliiiij lhrou','h by drop|tiiii; an amdior, yet iis los>, from the liiui-
uess of the ground, would be almost certain. In entering the bay, border pr(iiv di,,,-
tc the low rocky ■..oliii to the souihwird, tii avoid a Hcf that lies about a (|uarierii| 1
mile witlutut it : bu; as the sea always breaks upon it, the eye aud a <lii(! eoiisideralidn 1
the tide are tin* best jjuidi-s. '['his reef extends for some distam e to the eastward nt th'
hri ikers, and therefor" the tides, when within it, set in or out of the bay, but with hi:;,
streii.'th. Should a ship not l)e able to ( liter the bay. there is an(diora<;e ol?" the |](];i,i
l)elwpeii if and the reef, on, I Indieve, tolerably clean j,'roiiiid. ^'ouwill havi- lv!(ir,;
fathoms otV the reef; then thr- de|)ili shoals for one or two heaves, to 7 fathoms, iil'in
which it deepens aiiaiii : you may then haul across the bay, and aiu hor at about acpiiiir
<»f i) mile wltlilii the low rocky |)imit. l.'eariiii; V.. \ N. or K. by N. by compass. in4'-
thorns low wati'T, avoidiiiLj the kelp which projects o!f from tlic low saiidv beaches; v„,<
IS, however, suffieieiiily distinct, and for further directions ilic plan will be the best uiii':i.
A small vessel may easily lui ■■ in, but I should hesitate takinj; such n step in one tliisl
ronldnot make (|uite certain of. When once in, the an(diora;;e is jjood, and protn'l
at al' points, except between N. 11 and N. 7^^.',° K.; but from the appearance ol !:;■
beaches I ''o not think a iieavy sea is ever thrown into it. There is no wood to lir pi ■
ciU'-d of atiy si/.e, and the i\;w -ialions of water, that are collected in llie wells ,•! i!.
poinf, so very precarious as to be scarcely wortli attention. The passajje to the nmr
inn holes is ov-r asm ill roekv bar. whiidi a boa! may cross at three (|iMrters tlood ; it;>
iiiiM>"diate|v Wiihin the eastern |)oiiiI of the bay : there is a small sprim; at the luni::
mil I the third sandy beach, which a herd n[ ^nanacoes was observed to visit even
morning, but as (he water only Tickles down in a very small quantity, it cannot alliiri
more than a temporary supply. Two of the tiiree wells at the [)oint we found to be I'lil!
of sea water, which h id breaclied over the rocks ; the other contained about 10 :;al!(Mi!
o'' rather a brackish taste. jJesides a jjoud and secure au(diora;;e, this jilace ali(*ril>iM
lather advntai;es : ii is convenient for sealiiij; vessels to uncl.'orin whilst employed iiillitir
occupation upon lVii<>uin Island.
.*2.»a Bear Hay is in latitude 47'^ .5^' 4')", and longitude f)5° 44'; variation 20"; higij
wa\er at full and change IJh. (.')', and the tide rises Jll feet.
.Spi;ini;s IJay is contained between the south head of Sea Rear Hay and tlie piMi:
viithii, I he. Shag Rock ; it forms a conslderablt^ bii,'ht, but is much exposed, beiiii; i|iii:i
o;Vi'n to the soutli aud east, and at the conclusion of the south-west sjale, when ihewini
always veers to .oouth and south by east, there is a considerable sea. The shiiru i*
skirted for some dislam e oil' with many rocks, ami the bay alloaether is (|uite unlit ft
tnchnraijo. The land is of the same height as about Sea Hear Hay, but has inore lunii'<
o. nodules of roekv hills visible on the outline of its summit.
Oil this bay, in the old chart, is laid tlown a rock called the Eddystone. It wmill
seem that this rock and the Hellacn Jiock, dis< overed by Nodales, in Ibl'J. is the .saiiif
dantjer ■, but the whole coast iietween Cape HI luco and Port .St. Julian is mmdi slrewitl
witii slioals, which are ihi; more dangerous horn the strength of the tides which sttln-
tween tliem- In navi-iating upon this part of the coast, the depth and quality ol ila'
soundings is a good guide, ami, a-^ a genejal rule, when the depth is more than 40 la-
ithoms, there exists no known danger.
In direet
tlile, will di
The Sh.i
ImII'oII'sIk.
Hide, S. S.
Oil the 1.1
n little til III
iiinri' to the
to the soutli
Cape is vet'
honi the pi I
oil ,ip|iroac
paiihes, bu
lailioiiis.
The ;;roil
Mere the en
"ard of till'
liling .Mom
it is(alleil
The H.dl
.Noil. lies, in
I'M ('apt. St
had an obsc
.iiid long. ()''
Capi', ami .">
;ilii)ve llie wa
h:ilf a mile 1
and (Ml its e
giouiid aroii
ed. I5el«c(
Wood's M
Port .St. .lull
lieiid of the
bii^lier than 1
lure, no misi
hears N. ^(,
jutting out l(
part is while
Iv"|)iiii; y
head, which
according to
The land t
hy scrubby hi
iViilii the K. .*"
In hit. 4') '
clay dills, tin
about ;!()0 or;
w.islies their
pioily of shin
lie oif certain
the shore. '
perceived wh
Amdiorage
to two miles I
4')^ ■)')' the r
minaies, at 'J
of the eiitran-
hit. .OC ' ')' -JO'
SA.\TA f
Santa Cru/, i
, makes when •
* I',ilili/x/iiiie
, 11 !•< the liellaet
5 and is covered
r 1 J le;iguc8, E
kip^y
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
591
iicii witli mills on (lie
■,\\v <li ivcii iiriii^v ii;
Is ;iic very ;il)tiiiil;i:i!,
ss, ti> In; ;ip|intii(liii|.
till w;iifi. hut III s)
:h III' Tcry Miiiiill M/,
r sliriihliy lift', liiMf.
'IMif scalers (111; |i
ic (lii^ up anil u<il
y clitsc wltlidut (l:i'.
I' is vt'iy raiiiil. ^iil
> very daiu'ennis |.|
.i/«'. 'I'llC lIlKllI M<
we loiiiid till" tlili !,
mil nalcr. <ii llii' ii'.
nil. alicr till' iiiiiniM
sliDrr.
of nil tlio ciiasl, L,
[it of tin- stn'umli.i:
sf|iaratiii^ tlic r(M»v
'I'llC llDtlom, llrMi:r.,
allliou^ll A sllip lint
loss, iViiiii till- liiiii-
, liordcr prrtiy di-e
aliiiiit it i|iiarti'r n| i
iliK' cDii^iili'iatiiiii <;
K the eastward ulili^
ic hay, hut with Im:,
lii)ra<i<! 1)11' the |iMii,i
)U will have I'J (ir ;;
s, til 7 ralliiiiiis, ;iii'[
uir at aliiiut a(|u;iri'r
hy ciiiniiass, in 4 ii-
sandy hraclies; ihi*
kill hi- till' hi'st zw'r.
Ii a sti'p ill mil' ill {'I
(ii)d, and priitri'!i-l
' apprarani'i' nl 'li''
no wood to III' |ii 1-
in I lie wi'lls I'l ihe
ssai;i' to till' w.iitr-
(|iiart(M's IliKid ; il.>
iprini; at tin- rn'rih
crvi'd to visit v\it\
itv, it caimiil altdr'
we round to lir lul
rd ahoiit 40 yallnii*
this place ntl'iiril> II'
St eiiiploycil HI iliHi
variation 20" ; hii;ii
ir l?ay and tlie iioin'-
>xposcij, hcim; i|iii:i'
i;alc, when iIkmmiiI
sea. The sh;iri i-
ler is quite unfit k
, hut has more luiniis
iddvstone. It >vmi!l
iii'lOl',), is thesiiim'
liaii is imifh sirr««i
e tides which set In-
h and (luality oftlic
is more than 40 la-
in ilirectin!; llie shiji's cnitrse hy niiilit near this mast, retard should lie jin'rd to the
tiijc, vviii'h sets with consiileralile slreii:;ili, the ciiiient riiDiiiii^ parallel with the xlinre.
Tin; Sliai; Knek is a whitish mass of rock, perlinly hare, lyinij iilmul iinr mile and a
li:ilfiilf shore ; two miles to the south of it are four s.nall dark eulored rock.s ; and at three
null
\V. from It, there is rallier a lart:e rocky islet.
( 111 llie liiid, iiid at a short distance from the ciia«t, arc tlire»- hills, which afipear, wh^"!!
a lillle til tin: soiiihward ot .'^e.t I'.tMr Kay, like llirec roiiiid topped hills, hut on reaihiiig
re to thr smiiliM aid they extend in length and loiiii inlo two lulls, and, at thrc<> leagues
Mill
til the south of llie .'s ha 4 Ivock, I hey appear to form one mass ot'tahle land. Walehmau's
(ape is very low, and may he distiiitiiiislied hy itn hell-shaped mount: at two leagues
fiiiiii llie poinl is u shoal \Nilh kelp upon it, oti whicli the leisl water is .') tathoms, hut
(III ,i|ipriiachin:; it ill" depth ;_'railiially decreases: there arc also tiiariy other shoal
ililies, hut are all huiiyed with sea weed ; the ship paused hetwecu sevral in 7 und 9
fall
llllllS.
Till' ground is very fmil and iiiicven for more thin four miles iVoin Watchuian'.s Cape.
il
le coast ireiiiis roiiiii
to til
e NM'-lwarii and li;'comis
hiL'l
ler,
lieiiis'
to l\
le south
uarii of the cape, llicre appears a iiiiiiiiil ahoiit two miles Irom its extreme point rescm-
liliti;; .Moiiie \'ideo, in the Kiver I'laie, liotli in !-l,ape and color, hut tiot quite so high.
Il In I ailed Monte N'lileo, and in lal 4f^ 18' .')j ', and loin;. (>•> IS'.
The Mellaco Kock, or San Kstcvan's (Slephen's) Slioal, whicli was discovered hy the
Nodi'.les, in 1(>1'), was searched for in vain in the J)esciiiiierla and Atrevida's voy.ij^e ;
li;,i ( 'apt. Stokes, in the early part ol' 1 HJr-, on lii.s passage dvv, ii the coast, loiiiid it, and
had an ohservation of the sun close to it for tiie lalitmh'. it i.s in latitude IH ,'iir !}U",
iiiid loin;. ()() ')' "J.")'
Jt hears S. 1.1' K., lit' miles from the eXMt'iiiilv of Watch
mail H
('
pe, and S. K., mas;., from Moute \'ideo. The lock is a d.uk mass, ahoul ') or HI feet
aliiive llie water at liiirh lide, and has the apjiearaiu ciif a hoal turned hottoiii up. \\'ilhiu
li;ilf a mile of its soiitii side tlie licaule sounded in 1"J and 1 '> fathoms, rocky hottom,
anil (111 its east side, at the same distance, the depth is Irom Jd to 'J4 falhoms. The
i:niuiiil around it heiii<; foul and uneven, the (ojsl in its iiei<;hhorhood should he avoid-
ed. I)i'lweeii W'atchiiiaii's (v'ape and Port St. .Iiiliin the land is of inoderale heii;ht.
\V
.M
mil
It is \ isihle fioiii llie ilrik for at least 1 1 leagues, and is a yoiid mark for
Port St. .I'lllaii, hi'iii;; llai-toppcil and iiiiich more ehvaled than llie land ahoiit il. 'I'he
trend of the coast may also in; a u;ood mark ; hut as the land ahoiit I'ort St. .liilian is
liiuher than to the soulhw.ird or norlhward, and Wood's Mount h so reinarkahle a fea-
ture, no mislake can he made. In a line with the south poinl ol' entrance the mount
hears N. s(, ■ ', W.(W. Id
111.1^.)
Th
orlli head, ('a(ii ('iirinso, is a low point
intliii'j; out to the norlhward, foinied of dills hiiri/.uiii.illy stralilied, of which the upper
part is white lirown, and the Iowim- j;(Mierally hiack, or with lilack streaks.
Keejiin^ Wood's .Mount hearing; S. (i7 W., hy compass, will leail you to the south
head, which will he easily dislin<^iiished 'Aheii at the dislaiicc of b or b miles, or more,
ari'.irdiii"; to llie stale ol'tlie wealhei.
The land to the siiiitli« aid of i'orl St. .Iiilieii is uniforni, (lat, and low. It is covered
coming
hv si'iiilihv hushes, and Ironied hv a sliiiii;le heach. At ll> or 1 -J miles south of it.
finm the !•;. S. E., a small llal-topped hill is seen over the low coast hills.
Ill lat. 4')' -7', the chaiacler ol'the coast tdiaiii'.es eutirely to a raii<;e of steep white
clay clin's, the average heisiht of which was calculated, hy aiiiiular measurement, to he
aliout ;;iMl iir;i.')ll feet. They rise like a «all from the sea, which, ai hich water, nearly
washes their hase ; hut at low water they are fronted hy a consideiahle extent of beach,
pmtly of shingle and jiartly of mud. Some short rocky ledi;es. which hreak at half tide,
^^ he olf certain parts otthis raiii;e, hut none of the ledges extend loi more than a mile tVom
Ij the shore. This clili'y raiii^e occasionally forms projections, but so ^ighl as not to be
perceived when jiassinij; alireasi of them.
Aiichi)rai;i's aloii<{ the coast may he taken up, witli th*- wind :r sbi»r»-, at firom a mile
to two miles from the heaeh, in from') to 12 and I I fathoms, oo/.y hottom. In latitude
4')" .').')' the raiiiie of steep while cliffs li<-;;ius uradiially lo diininish in liei^hf, and ter-
minates, at ') miles farther to the souiliward, in a low |io»rit, lormiiii^ tlie northern side
iif the entrance of Santa Cruz Kiver. It is called in the chart North Point, and is in
lat. ryC .')' •2(1", and 68^^ .T.
SANTA CHl'Z. — The appearar'<e {>\ the coast about the entrance of the river of
• Santa Cru/. is very remarkahlc, and easy to lie known, from the manner in winch it
; makes when scimi t'i»m the northwani. and is c\en more conspiciUfius when seen from
• Eildi/stiiue.— Myron sjiw this riK-k, but from IiIh [losiiion of it there seems to iie little doubt that
It IS the nellaco Hock i)l .N'miales. Mr. ^ .;|isiiii's jiiMriial sii\», '• ii is ."> jpacurs from the shore.
,'; iiiid isc'oviTcil ar liiirli water. It hears fnini I'enirnin Island S. S. W.. a litile wj-sicrly, distant 14
or 15 k'iigues, a.id is in lat. IS- 3G'. (Tlic laiuude of tho Bclluco is 40=* 30' 5U' .
o
BLUNT S AJIERICAN COAST PILOT.
the sontliwnrd. From ilip latlor flii'i'clion a ronst lineof clifTs and downH of rnn'^idrri
hie ht'lsjlit \'* seen fxtomliir^ to llic sd ;itliw;iril ol the nitr;iiico as Car as tin- eye can r( ;.( l,
and tennin iiinij abiuplly to tlio iiitrihwaid in a hisli, stcrp, flat fopin-d (lid', .\I(,,|,,
Kntranc(>, of whioli tlin upper part descends vcrlirally ; the lower slopes oil", and app^nr,
to l)p. united with some very low hiii I, whirli will be seen extending (accordinj; to ihc
dislanre oil ) two or three points of the compass to the northward of it. Munni K,|.
trance is at the south Kiitrance of the river, and is, by annular lueasurenietit, '^')i,^,,^
hi^ill. 'The low land is ontlie nnrilurn side of the rntrance of tlie river.
The outer part of the bar, on which at low tide there are 14 feet water, is nearly lour
miles S. bS"" J K.from Mount Kntrance. and '( miles from North I'oint, bearing N.o4'E,
Kourteen miles up the river. <ui ihe south bank, is Weddi-ll's lUulV. a r(uispi(ii(ii,
headland; and 11 miles farther is anr flier called Hea'^le I'.hjlV. Weddi I's Mlnli. o|.i:) ,
the .south entrauj-e, and in a line with the centre of Sea Lion Island, bearin;; N. W.
W. \ \V.,* by coir.pa-*s, is the leadir i; mark lor liie j):iss;t;;e over the bar. Willi I'l,
irk
the Meiifflf
d the b;i
fai horns. t The Br
•rosseu me oar m / v lainoms.t i ne upn
Hlull", a little open of the low points of the north side of the river, is also a lending tiur.
to cross the bar.
After passin:; the bar, whieli is about a mile broa<l, there is no impediment tn n ii*'
course up the rivt r, keepin;; midway between the narrow points of entrance, utud renr
ing the siuials which project olf the e.n.st point of Sea Fiion Island. 'I'he best anrliir.
a!;e seems to be that occupied by tiie JJea;;le, on the south side of Sea [jinn |s;„r
where the water is shoalerand the fidfi not so stroni;.
At Weddel's i'.lutfthe river divides into two arms. The northern one, which tnriii
under the east fall of the i5ea<;lc HIiilT, was examined by ("aptain .Stokes for IJ in,!.;
above its commencement, where it eea.'ed to be naviijabic, oven at hii;h water. It«li(|
was divided by banks of sand into sever; I little fordable streams, preservin,j, as fara^il,*
inequalities of the land would permit thr eye to follow their course, a nu-an N. W. livN
direction. The stream at this part wa« <|uite fresli, but still subject to the re^uinni
and How. On the boat's return she wai left dry for six hours, in the middle of th.'fliii!
nel, about two miles above lieagle Rlufl'. At lialf tide tlie boats took in their waterj:
this place.
The shore on the S. W. side is a ranjj''' of clay cIKfs, of tlic average heieht of 2.3flfr'i
with grassy downs, and intersected with valleys and ravines. Cn the eastern siilc. ■ f
land for the most part is low and level, with ,i shingle beach. The aspect of the coiimn
is dreary, the soil gravelly, and the vegetaitinu scanty, the largest production oftlintni.
ture being buslies bearing berries, none of which exceed 7 or S feet in height. Minv
brant geese and ducks were seen, as well as t'le common sea fowl of these parts. sucl;?<
penguins, cormorants, gulls, ducks, and divers. Several ostriches also made tlicir ■■
pearance on the beach, and traces of guanaco's were observed.
The south-western arm, which is th»' lucst lonsiderable one of the two, was exnminfj
for .33 niile.s. It was supposed by W'eddel to be of smdi considerable size and iiKciv-i-
ing appearance as to be likely to communicate with some branch from the Strait dl Mv
galhaens. The first reach of the arm runs .*<. W. by W. (> miles, with a mean liiraiii;
of 2,7 miles. At l.^ league up, the boat, bein ; ancliored for the night in mid-cli;iiiiii'l,[
12 feet, was left dry at low wafer. At the place of the first observation, on the nonh
side, in lat. 40^ ,">~'. and long. ti.S^ 5.3' the inlluerife of thr tides had altogetlier m'o'i
and the water was quite fresh. The stream v\\\ beautifully clear and pure, mIiIi ihiif-
locity of at least 'i miles an hour, over a bed of pebbles mixed with dark sand; its ineis
breadth being three (juarters of a mile, and deptii in inid-( 'iiiiiii.! -^ i">«i. It rnriKliflv.ii^;;
two nearly parallel ranges of hills, about 4 tniles asunder. IJeyond this the reachrs 3'<
short, seldom more than 2 miles long, forming tortuous courses between S. S. K. nnd \V
by S. The wind blew directly down, and the rapidity of the .stream was so great ili;itili(
boat was obliged to he tracked up the river.J
The examination terminated in lat. .')()'^ ')', long. 60^ 21', which is 4.') miles in a Aw
west direction from its inoutli, but by the course of the stream .j.3 miles.
At an anchorage outside the bar. Mount Kntrance bearing .\. .'<2"' \V'., five iiiilc* "if.
and Weddel's IJlulf N. ().'>^ W.. the Heagle rode out a gale from the S. S. V/. anl
south with a heavy sea, without driving. 'I'he soundings fliat are marked in the cliart,
outside the bar, were taken at low water, whilst the ship occupied the above anchor:;''.
* This is the benrinpff^iven by Weddcl in his account of Snnta Cm?..
i Tiic rise of the tide is considcrab'e. In ^^oing out, after crofsin^^ the bar, the nengie anciiorfd,
and at low tide the water had fallen 2() fret.
t Tiic above descnplion of Santa Cruz and the river is taken from the late commander Stokes'
MS. Journal.
The fidi!s
111 turn t»i'
(iliserved li>
Tiie CI I-
(|iy a; hill t
mill's. (^;i
nut a liii> I
IJelivP^ii (
(•e>'iiiiii ol cl
p.iri olthe c
HiMiher.
When wit
southward o
Tln'ri; can li
rniilioiisly
rDi'ks hIik'Ii
<'()\' I.M
Ciptain .Sioi
iiilitrinafion
Coy Inlet
fiDiiled by a
niside there .>
iiuik^, which
|i)>e than to
ill its terimii.i
Thence to
from rocky le
7 to 12 and 1
hcacli is of s!
beyond tlieli)\
ally ileejXMis.
tea breaks; it
Tlie flood s
water at full a
In lat. 51 '1
of iVesh «;iter
it is standing
K'inporarv sn|
('.mm:' k.\
thill extends fi
Ciipe St. ViiK
^ uuiiis, f()i- w
miles dilferen
Aiiventure as '
liuving been ol
A simil.u' erro
tiiaiid of Lova
mil the Noila
liic one fortlic
le Rio (le (ia
liiiiy easily be
On the'old i
idls "like the
iiaik they are
Stri'tified, the
The interio
j)l;uits, among
^buiinds will) i
^ lifsides the
prickling down
The entrani
rn|)e Fairwi'ai
or 5 leagues
S'orlh llill. ]
'atpr, but at 1:
if the shoals, ^
downs of rnnsiilm.
ns the pvc citti rf ;ii|],
topiK^d rliir, MiMit,;
(ipes ulV, hikI ;i|i[if:ir,
ns; (iicconliti;; t(i the
I of it. Miiiinl \.i.
riisiiiemrnt, li'ih i,,,
rivor.
water, is nf-nrlv liinr
iiit, lifitiirij; N. .'>; H,
MliilV. a r(ms|)i(iiiii.
1(1, hniiiiii; N. W. .,
tiip h;ir. Willi |i>,
lottis.f Tho |{i':i.v
s also a Icadinj: ih.it.
iinprdimcnt to a lr»
^iilraiicp, until rni|i-
i. Tho licsl nnrlir-
of Sou Lion Isliinl.
prn one, whicli inriii
S tokos for I'J niilii
; hinli water. It» IcI
■pservin-^, ns far iimIi*
, a iiu-an N. W. l.vN
rrt to the rfcul'ir ''
)«? middle of the char-
took in their \v;itpr;;
n£;e hriclit of -JoOiV'
the easleni side, ">
aspeet til'lhe romiirj
rodiieiion of tint ii"
•t in hci^lil. M:in
il these parts. su(!:?<
s also made their ;'•
le two, wns exntninci
l)ie si/p and iii;fiv<t-
111) tlie Strail ul Mv
wilii a ineaii hitaiii',
;iit in mid-ehaniipLi:
rvation, on liic nnnh
id altoLjefli'T rcn'if I.
nd pure. «llli llir *>'■
dark sand ; its inei;
. It nirisliftrtrfj
d this the rea-hrs v>
,een 8. S. ]•]. niid W,
was so great thatihe
blunt's ameuicax coast pilot.
503
IS 45 miles in a Aw
niies.
■2° W., C\v(' milfii'lT.
in th(> S. S. \V. an
The tidus ill the offiii'j; were observed to (low very rejniarly six hours each way, but
Miiini l»i' iioiin later lli.ui the time of iiiyh water in sliore. The llood, us before, was
.ilisiTved to mil lo the iinithward.
The CDiist to the south of the rivor is bounded by a led:je of rorks, whieli are either
,|iv at half tide, or are then shown by a line oi breakers: iliey exiend as far olf as three
iiiiii't. On one occasino the Mea^le anehortid aiiuinj; tliein, and had some dilficiiliy, and
not a liiile risk, in eseapini;.
MctwPfii Coy Inlet an I .S iiila Cm/, the eriast trends liijlitly in, and is forme I !)y a suc-
ci'ssjoii of clilfan I intervening low beaches. (Joy inlei is eonspieiious, as it is the only
part Dl'the coast that has the appearance of an inlet between Santa Cm/, and Cajie Fair-
HiMllier.
U'lii'ii within seven miles of its latitmie (.")0^ ')7') as well to the northward as lo tho
southward ol it, a ship sjntuld kei'p at the tiislanee of I'oiir or live miles oif the enast.—
There ean be no iiuJueement lo yo iii'arer, as it alfords niuthdr fuel nor water ; and if in-
ciiitioiisly approaelieil mui h trouble and even dan:;er may ensue, from the ledges of
rocks whieli piojecl at least three mih's, anil perhaps mor.- from the coast.
('()^" l-NLpyi . — 'I'linc is no account either of Coy Inlet or of the (iallei;os Hiver in
r.iptain Stokes's .Journal : what is here ;:iveii is taken from the chart, and iVoni what oral
iiilorniation I have received.
Coy Inlet is a shoal salt wafer inlet, terminatins; at 1') miles from the eiitranre, and
iVonled l)y a liar of rocks, leaving a passavje only of six feet water on their .south side;
iiisiile there seems to be liltli- more than Ij I'eet water, and in most parts of tin inlet, l!io
bulks, which are of mini and sand, 'jre dry at low water; it is useh'ss liir any other piir-
|))se than to alford shelter to a .small boat. The southern side of the inlet is dill'y, and
at its terimii.ition receives tlie drains of an extensive llat country.
Thence to Cape I-'airweather the coast is simil i to the northern part, but more fren
from rocky ledi^es, and i^ood aiichoram' may be h.id from •,' to () miles oil' shore, in frimi
7 to I 'J and 11 fathoms, muddy iioltoiii : the water slioalim; i^radually to the slmre. The
beach is of shingle lo hi};h water mark, and then of hard » lay as tar as one htiiidred feet
lifvoiid the low water limit, where aiireen miidily bottom commences, and the water gradu-
ally deepens. Tiie outer c^dye of the clay is bounded by a Icd^^e ul ro( ks, on which tho
tea breaks; it extends lor some distance paralhd with the coast.
Tlie llood sets lo tilt! iN. \V. by N. and the el>l) S. K. by S. U hours each way; high
1>ater at full ami change between •) and 10 o'clock, and the tide rises "Jl feel.
Ill lat. 51 ' H)', a!)out 17 miles north of the cape, there is a ravine (Mintainiiii; almndaneo
nllVesh water, winch may be obtained, when the wind i.s olf sliore, without any difficulty;
it is standiiiii water, and bein;; much grown over with plants, may not keep, but fur a
'icinporarv supplv it seemed to be verv i^ood.
C.M'H' F.\liaVi:.\'nii:it, is the south extremity of the Ion;; rango of clay din's
that extends I'rom Coy Inlet, alninst, without a break. Tlie cajie resembles very mucli
(';i|)p St. Vincent, on the coast of Sjiain ; it also bears a very great resemblance lo Capo
Villains, for which il has (Vecpieiilly in'cii taken, notwilhsiandiiig there is more than '15
miles dilferenee in the latitude of the two headlaiids. 'J'iiis mistake was made in the
Aiiventure as well as in the IJeagle on our lirst visit, when, no observation for the latitude
liaviii;; been obtained, we were two days at aiudioroH'il l<eforo our error was discovered.
A simil.ir error was also nnde by one of the sliips belonging to the fleet under the com-
niaiid of Fjoyasa. in the year 15-,'j (see Biuney's ("(dlection of \'oyages, v(d. i. p. 1,'il ; )
jtoiiil the Nodales, in their description of the coast, warn the navigator from mistaking
^lienne for the oilier, "y veneio lie mar en fuera a buscar la tierra, faeilmeiite podiaii liacer
e Rio (le (iallegos el Cabo ue las Virgines;" (and in making the land Cape N'irj^ins
ay easily be mistaken fur the Hiver (iallegos.) \'oyage of the Nodales, ]>. 5.'J.
On the old charts ol t his part ol the coast the shore is described to be formed ot" chalk
ills "like the coast of Kent : "' the resemblance, certainly, is very great, but instead of
talk they are of clay. 'JMiey are from .'J to 4 hundred feet high, and are horiifioutallv
^tr;>tified, the strata running for many miles without ituerniption.
'I'he interior is formed by open plains of undulating (.ounlry covered with grass and
|)lants, among which is aSiinlan'-e of wild thyme, hut entirely deslitute of tiees: it
marked in the rli;ii;, ^lumiids with guanacoes, which may be procured by laying in wait at the water holes.
the abovi> anchnii;''.
:ir, the Menj^Ic aiidiorfi!.
ate commander Stokes'
J Besides the pond above-inention»'d, there is no want for fresh water; it may be seeo
|il('kliiig down the face of the clills .»t short intervals.
The entrame of the Iliver (Jallegus is formed on the north side by the clilfy land of
Tape Fairweather, and (ui the south by a low shore that is not visible at s»a for more than
^ or 5 leagues^ excepting the hills in the i;iterior, called the Friars, the Convents, and
crossed
by I
igh
but at half ebb they are almost dry. The entrance is round the south extremity
shoals, which bear frutu the south trend of the cape S. 43*^ £., distant 1,0 miles,
75
591
BMNT S AMKIUCAN COAST PILOT.
Tlip pn'«i:ii.'c in i« piii;illc| wiili tlic ((iiisf fd iiic •Kniiliwiiiil n{' the pnfrinc''. fnkiii^' mr
not t«) itpt-n llic IiiikI to tlic iiortliwnnl (i((';ii'c Knirwriiihrr's most « ;istcrn Ircinl, Hhirh,
wIpmi ill the (nil \v;iv, slimild lie n N. Id' W. 111.11^. Tiif "tlim*' itti llic l;iiiii>;irii h.iiiil ti.in
flirii III- 8r.if|ii;iliy !i;>|)r(i;i(li(Ml. iiiiil, in ilic prcHCiif sfiitr of llic ktio" I<'(|>.m' mi- posM ., ,(„
Mliip slioiilil 1)*^ nticliorcii (o iiwnit low wnti-r. in Id tiitlioiiis, at a mile ami a liall I'mniilr
wliorc, so soon as ilic sontli fioint lir^itis to he olisrrvfd to trctnl round lo llir «(■>!« 1,
tilt' anrlioraif llicri' is uooil. and well slicltrifd Ironi the picvaiiini; winds.
Hy iindi nini:, tin' passa^r in will lu- oasilv dctcflcd, and ina\ In- passed \n{< <■ tlirvln ,
are ii;;iiiii covfrcd. wliicli will !>»• a '.:oorl uuidc; I I'atlionis is tlir drpili at low water in:!,.
niirrowijst part of the cltannrl. Aiuhoraijf' may be tak«'n up on the «onth Nide, liirioii,,
liorffiward the banks are extensive.
There is also a middle, ami as it appears lo lie the widest, may he thr tin' l)r«l rhnnnfl
for crossini; the liar. 'The imter part was not coiiipleiely examined ; hut. no doiilit, iir
is a snilieieiit di>|ilh of water at three (piarters llnod loi any vessel to [lass it. 'riiescin
«'rii channel, however, is preferable from haviny; tlie latid as a ctiide.
The riv« r runs in to the westward for .'id miles, and then winds nx " o'liitherly hctw.f
two rari'.x's if hills. Its banks are formed of downs, alionndiii!; wit)'. ^ .anacoes and.,
riches. The water is fresh at 'J.'* miles from the moiith. In the entnf;"!' (he time nf h
water af (nil and cliaii'j;e is Hh .'idm ; the rise of tide, at the springs, is 'lb feet, an(jii.r
Stream runs as much as five miles an hour.
From the south entianre of the (Ja-ile^os Ixiver, the coast, towards Cape \'ircin«,^^
tends in a more easterly direction than it does to the northward of (ape i-'airwculi,,
and. for the (irst half of the distain e, is lurmed by n low slielviin; coast, that ;uaif»
ira'^nes from the shore is not visible, so that a slraii<;er niii;hf readily .sii[i|)(isc it fohrili
entrance of the Strait of .Masralhaeiis. There are, however, some marks by whicji iti,,,,
be known, even should the latitude not have been ascertained. In rleu weather the Frii-.
find the other hills near them would be visible; and in thwk weather the sonn(liii;;> .-
the rape will be an iiifallible i;iiide; for at the distance of four miles o(f no iimrp tli:if:,
fathoms will be touiid, whereas, at that distance tVom < 'ape \'ir<:ins the depth is coiimiI.-
able; the bottom also to the north of Cape Kairweather is of mud, whilst that id'
north of Cape Nirijins is of ijravel or <'oarse sand; and the latter cape has a Ion:; ■
point of shitmie riiiiiiiii>4 o(f it for nearly live mill's to the .S. \\'. and, lastly, ii if.
weather be clear, the distant land of Tierra del Fiieyo will be visible to the .S. .S. W
,\t eiiihti-eii mill's to the soiiihw ird of ('ape l-'airwealher the cliffs ai;ain coiniiii'iu',
nnd ennlimie to Cape Virgins, with only one or two breaks; in one of whicli, ein|itiiii|.i
north of the latter cape, I think a boat may land if necessary. There is jjood am linr .f
iiloii'j the whole coast between the tialle^os and Cape N'ircins, at from two to five riiili- -'
shore; but the bottom is riither stony, and mii^ht injure hempen cables. As tlier;i|>n
approachcil, the ;;roiind becomes more foul.
Of the Wiii(h (tnd Wi-nlhrr, T'ld'.'-^, (uxl J'arlali/in of thr Compass, heticccn C WW
lU.V.XCO aiul C.VPK VIIKJIX.S.
Our experience of the wind and weather upon this part of the coast was not siiffioiP';
to enabje us to form any juds;ment of the chances that are liable to occur. Tin ]r'
vailiiii; winds, particularly towards the southern portiun, are from the soiith-wisi. ir-
whicli ipiarter the <:ales are the strongest ; but near fli" land, duriiii; the smiiiiK rsi'iis-
thev veeraliiiul between south and W. N. W. and in the winter, when the sun tKisncr'/
em declination, they han<; more commonly to tlie northward of west. Northerly \vii;i
nre accompanied by misty or foc<:y weather, particularly on that portion of the coastl"
twern the Rio de la IMata and I'ort St. Klena.
The marine bariimeler here is of si'.Mial advanta;re. It is low with a northerly wind. I;:
as soon ax the coltimii Ins (alien to •.") inches or lower, and ceases to (all, a chaiiL'c <il«!'i
from the S. W. may be expected: which commences with, or very soon follows '
ascent of thr mercury; the wiiul then freshens and blows hard, and the weather "br-
up. The clouds are white, of |ar<;e si/.e, and of rounded form, and the air lipcomf'
elastic, dry. and cold. During; the existence ot', and for some davs preceding, a iinrtli-
eriy wind, there is <;ener illy a very copious deposition of dew ; indeed, the apprnrap'
of it is an ititallilile presa;.'e of the change. With northerly winds the air is iiiilil it
excessively daiii|). but when they blow from the opposite (piarter it is cold ami dry.-
The wind rarely blow.s from east, hut sometimes obliquely towards the coast from .N.F.
or S. S. E.
The Jlond tiilr sets to tlie northward, parallel with the coast. Near Cape Virein'.th
northerly tide ceases at about four hours before tiic moon's passage; in the Gallf:'''
River it is hiu;h water, at full and chansje, at i^h. .OOm., and rises 4f) feet: at Cape Fair
weulher, at 9 o'clock, and rises 28 feet; at Coy Inlet, at between nine and ten o'ciocii
ULUM 8 AMEIUCAN COAST I'lI-OT.
G95
•nfninrr. fnkiii^- r.no
■iiNtcrn tn'iirl, «hirh.
r Iniliniiril linnil niiM
Icilllf Wl- JtiivM-.vlhr
I' ;iiiil ;i li;ill iVdniihr
nnil to till- wcstwiini;
I uliids.
ssimI hell If thrshiuii
till ;it liiw *.-\U>t iiiiK
soiilli side, lur liiilv
tlir tin- ln'«l rliririDr;
; hilt, no (loiilit, tlif-
I pass it. Tlio sdii'i!
e.
' »')iit1irrly hctn.i
tl; ^ .:iniic()»'s iiihl.,
riir.''(* «hp tiiiip nfh.
gs, is 4(> let'l. iind;,..
rds ( 'apr \'irt;in*. n.
f Capf l''aiiw(Miliii;
ig coast, that ;itak»
iiy suppose ii to hnht
narks l)y wliidi iimat
It'll' wcatlirrllii' Vrw
rlicr tlic sonii(liii;< '•
|ps o(V no iMoro lh;in,
1 ilit> tlrptli is consul"
iiul, wliilst tliat 111'
'i- capp has a iiin; .
W. anil, lastlv. il'ib
ililc to tlie S. S. W,
liiVs a^aiii roininfiKV,
n of wliicli. oi';lili!i!<
'I'O is ;;no(l iiiirlmr.i.'f I
n two to (ivr niili-iS'
allies. As the rap »
•jss, hcliccen (\\PF,
nast was not siiffinp'J
to ncrnr. Tin' \v-\
the south-wi'st. Ir(is|
n;: thf> snninirrsi';i«i''
irii the snii liastKir'vl
■St. Norflifi'ly wii;i'j|
imtinii of the l(l;lst^^l
a iiorlheiiy \viniU:;|
I'all, a eliaiiu'eiif«i'i
very soon i'nlliiws. '
UKf the weiilluT "In'
, anil the air bpcoinf*
vs preeeiliniz. n imrtb-
iiileeil, tliP apprnra"
Is tlie air is milil V-
it is cold ami iln-
Is the coast from N.F..
:par Cape Vircini'.tl:!
ssaiie; in tlie Ciallc:^!
4f) fppt : at Cape Fair-
nine and ten o'clock;
y\ Santa Cni/., ahotit lOli. I.^in., rlslnt' .'IH feel, Iml in tlie otVini; two lioiiri* Uter; at Soii
lliar Hiy, r.'ii. I'lin., riiiiii: -Jit ffei ; I'.iri Desire, l.'li. Him., use Im', leei : and at I'orl
.>«i. Kleiia, at I i»i lock in the alternoon. they ri-»e \', teel. In the oilin,' of I'nrl hesire,
(III* tiller are .1' or 4 hniirs later than they are in-8liure, wliieii is pndi.ilily i>wiii<{ tu llie
vdilv tide scttiiiij; out of St. (icoijire'M (jiiif.
'iMiP riiriiilioii i>t' Iht coiii/iuss uradiiiilly iiiereases from ilip Kio de la I'iata. whrro it in
.iliiiut 14 ; ill lat. :(() '.^, liifii;. ;').') |, it is alioiil 1 4 ', : iiilat.4l , and Ion:. (>ii . it in 1()° ;
inlat41 ,', and Ion-;, "(id ;, it is 17'; at I'orl St. Klena, I'j It) ; at I'ort Desire, 10"
4'.' ; at .'^ea Hear Hay, •.'(» 47'; at Tort St. .Iiiliaii, 'J> IH'; at .Santa Crii/, •.•i) ' 64'; at
the Kiver ( Jallcnos, •il'' 47'; and at Capp Virgins, it may he considerpd aliimt •.»;i'^i. At
till l.ixt place, acciirdini; to Sir .lolin Narlioioiii;li.* the variation in the year I'pTO was ]7<3
.Hill W.I I 'is and Carteret,] in I he year 17(>7, found it J I I',')' ; so that it has si artoly ullcrvd
uitinu the la.st liiuidred uiid .tixty yenm.
Strait of Afiiiiitlfiiiens — I'liiir l'ir<ii»s to Furt Fumine,
CAl'K XllKilNS, a steep clilf. alimit :i()l) feet hiuh, (in lat. :>:' IK' af) '. nnd Ion.
ii^ l()' •')■>() is ihe southern exlrenniy of the l*aiai;onian coast, and the north eniraiieo
of lliP .Strait of iMau;alliaeiis. There is im appearance of a reef that may extend oil"
ilie point for half a mile, hut not heyond that distance. The .\dventure passed at l^
mile I'roiii it, sciiindini; in ^ fathoms, stones; and then slandinu; to the south, crossed a
li.iiik o( ijra\e|, soiindinL; reiiulailv in 7 lathoms, until Dun^encss I'oiiil hore .si. W. iiy
W. hy compass, when the water dee|)ened. This hank trends oil' more to the soiit^j-
uard and caslwaril, hut I helieve its leriiiiiialloii is at ') miles ,•<. S7 K. (roiii the extreiiN
I iiy of Diinneness.
1 do nut iiiiaiiine that any part of it is shoal enoii::h to endanger a slTip. hut near itn
eMii'mily tliere are - line overl'alls, amoiii; whiihihc least depth that we found was 5
r (allidins al low water, ■>
III roniidiiii; Cape Virgins, unless the wind he casteily or soullierly. 1 should recoin-
nieiid a ship to pass within one mile and a half <d' the cape, and steer .S. hy K. hy com-
pass until l)iini;eness hears .S. \\'. maii. ; then to cd^e away around the latter pcriiit. and
;iltciH'anls the coast is clear to Capc^ Possession. In moderate wisitlicr ships may an-
chor any where lnlwccu Dmmencss and ("ape rossessiou. The holtoiH is of mood
iiii|ilin:<: ground, and quite clean. At front :i to '> miles from the coast, tiic de|Hh will hu
Irani 1 •") to •,'!» lathoms.
We know noihini; of the Fuejian shore, or south side of the entrnnce. TheReafilc,
III ljeatiii<>; in, made a Imard for ^ miles to the southward ul Dunueness, and had 40 tiw
thoiiis; hut 1 helieve the coast to he id shoal approach, and to he liiicil hy a hank that
is connected to the extensive reefs which project from Ca|H! Oran^ic.
CAl'K P()SSKS.*sl().\ isa clilfy headland on the north shore, and will he seen opcn-
ini: round Duii:;eness. on the nia;;iietic hearing of S. r^d .'{()' \V.; the distance ln'tween
is Ji) miles ; at lO or 12 miles to the west of Duniiencss, Mount Aviiioiid will make
111
Its appearani e, heariiii; .ilio
Hit N. H.V W
'»'*»•
10
I'U.S.SK.SSION IJA^ , which extends froiii Cajie I'ossession to the eiitiiuice of tl
Virst Narrow, curves in to the norlhward round Ihe c.ipe and is fronted hy an extensive
'«.lioal, stretchiiii; oli' for more than 4 miles from the shore, many parts of which aic dry
lall tide: on its south side the depth diminishes inadually. and offers i^ood anihoi-
|a:i' for vessels enterini; the strait, to await the tide for passin;.' the First Narrow.
On the western side of tue hay, there are some remarkahlc hills of a darker ^reetl
Bute than others near tiiem ; 1 have called them the Direction Hills; hccausi; after puss-
jiiii:^ Cape I'ossession, they all'ord a ijood mark for ap| laehini; iIk; Narrows, which are
jliot visihle until well across the hay ; hy allciitioii also to their hearings, ihe shoal that
xteiiils olf Cape Oraui^e may he avoid- d. 'J'o take up an anchorai:;e on the hank, yreal
^^ttention must be paid to the soun(lini;s. which at the ediie decrease suddenly; it would
not he advisable to anchor in less than 10 or 1-J fathoms at hij;li w-ater, for the tide falls
or 7 fatlioins : hut as the stream runs iimcli weaker on approachiiii: the ed^e of the
iiiik, tlie nearer to it the better. A j^ood berth for ancliorinu is to };et the northern Di-
i-ction IJill, (which is dark colored and very conspicuous,) to bear S. 5G^ W. iMouut
* NiirliDroii^di's Vovai.ro, p. III). t Hawkcsworih, vol. i. p. 410.
I Iiy chrononietrical uliscrvation i]8^ 17' IH ".
§ The sh.ial soutiiiiiiiis of .') faihoiiis ulF Cape Viririna bear froni the cape. .'^. 3.1- E. There \a
pn('lK)i'at;e under Uuiigeiicss with westerly winds Vv'alli.s anchoicd in 10 faihoiiif!, pravrl ; Capo
"lir<;:ns bi.'ariiij,' N. by W. J W., and Diiii;ifeiiess .'^. by W. but ihese bearings when laid down in
|liu chart, do not a|i| ■ ar to be correct. Tliu Dolphin anchored at 4 miles oil' the cape, bearing N.
I E. and at ii or 3 luiles from the extremity oi' the Nc3.s, bearing S. S. W, i W.
i
v^.
o^. \^
IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)
V
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i<
.•t' ..^
^
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1.0
I.I
HIM IIM
^ 1^ 12.0
1.25 i 1.4
1.8
1.6
Photographic
Sciences
Corporation
iV
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•1>^
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^9)
V
23 WEST MAIN STREET
WEBSTER, NY. 14580
(716) 872-4S03
o^
593
CLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PiLOT*
Ayriiohd N. 45° to 50° W., and the highest, (easternmost,) peaked hillock pon Csm
OnuiL^e ahoiit .S. S. E. (compass bearings.) When the hill above noticed i)ears S. ,y,'
AV. and .Mount Ayniond between N. 50° and fiO^ W.* you are in 9 or 2[) fatlioms, jii>t
off the edge of tiie bank ; about half to one mile more to tlie northward, or noitli-wcsi.
ward, good anchorage may be selected out of the strength of tlie tide.
There is, however, a more advanced situation about lialf a mile to the eastward nfilip
end of the shoal, that may easily be taken up; namely, that where 14 fathoms is niarktd
on the plan, for which the following are the bearings: — The
Northern Direction Hill, .S. 59° W. i
Mount Aymond N.43° AV. \ Mag.
Peak of Cape Orange, .y. 122° E. )
One mile more in advance to the S. W. would still be a better berth, but great csrc
hiust be taken not to ground on the tail of the shoal. At about half a mile more to n,;
eastward, the situation would be more secure.
Slionld the di.stant land behind Cape Gregory be seen, which makes with a long liljf
level strij) of land, terminating at its S. W. end willi rather a bluff or ))reeij)itons liii;,,;
is a good mark for the above anchorage. The (all, or extremity, should be visible, a
the space between the souiheriimost and central of the Direction Hills. There is akj
conspicuous lump on the same land, which will be seen a little to the eastward ndl'
northern Direction Hill ; and the Asses Ears, nearly out of sight, should be seen a litilei,
the eastward of that part of the shore of Possession Bay where the cliH'y coast coinnunnv
Another mark for the approach of the bank, which is very good when Mount Ayiiiuui
bears more westerly than N. 43^ W. mag. is, not to lose sight of the Asses Ears. Al
our anchorage in 0 fathoms, near the dry part of the bank, they were lost sight ol'bvj
fise in the land; half a mile to the southward, at tlie anchorage marked 11 fathoms, in.-
of them re-appeared above the land ; Mount Aymond at the same time bearing by cfiiii.
pass N. 41° \V. mag. But this rule fails to the westward, or nearer the Narrow, loriM
bank then trends mole southerly, and the Asses Ears are visible at its ed^e; ij.
west limit of this rule is, as before noticed, when Mount Ayinond bears about N. 4u- W.
mag. There is, also, another reiuark worth attending to; which is, that, after pa.^sip;
Cape Possession, Mount Aymond assumes the ap|)earance of a round obtusely-] e;il,(o
hill, with a smaller elevation on each edge of its outline; which appearance is pre.-mej
until it bears N. 50° \V. mag. and then the easternmost of the minor elevations giaa-
ally disap|)ears, while the western one becomes more consiiicuous.
To avoid the north shoals, do not get the North Direction Hill to bear more Bouilit!!v
than S. 56° W. mag. ; and the mark for avoiding the reefs that extend off Cape ()nii:e,
is not to get the same Direction Hill to bear more westerly than W. by S. | S. inas;. (ui
AV. by S. ^ S. will just pass without the edge,) until Mount Aymond bears N.4S'W.
mag. or the peak of Cape Orange south, mag. when the fair way of the First N-imi
will be open, bearing S. W. by S. mag. The north or north-western side of tli" Fir>;
Narrow, is a clitf of moderate height, and makes like a flat table land. When abre;*:
of Ca])c Oranire, a S. S. W. mag. course must be steered. The tide sets right tliri)ii:l;;
so that in driftiu': whicli with the wind against the tide is the safest and best plan,tlitr:
is no danger of being thrown upon the shoals. f
The First Narrow was called by Sarmiento, Angostura de Nuestra SenoradeEv
peranza. He describes itvery correctly to be 3 leagues long, and lessthan half alencw
wide, v.'ith cliffy shores ; the tide running strong ; the dei)th more than 5U fathoms, mi
and pebbles, (callao;) and on the north shore there is a beach of shingle. In tiii.s|aii,
however, as discretion nmst be the best guide, it will be necessary merely to state ill
dangers that exist. To the north of Point Delgada, (meaning thin or slender,) theshcri
is fronted by extensive shoals that dry at half tide, and which, being dry when Sarmiento
passed, was called by him Point Atiegada, (drowned land;) these should not be ap-
proached. The south shoVe also, for nearly 5 miles to the west of Cape Orange, liasa
shoal off it, but it does not extend to a great distance from the beach; beyo d lliisiiis
not safe to approach either shore within half a mile, for each is fronted by a bankibi
dries at low water. The western end of the Narrow on the north shore, Sarmiento's
Point Bananca, (meaning a cliff,) has a considerable reef off it, upon wliich there isi
B
*Thc
t ii\;
'he^e be r rings nrv. by comp'iss; tbc variation of the needle is 22^''.
. Ji:ef i:ff Cojte Oravgc — This reef extends off to the K. N. F]. lor a con.«idcralilc d'slance.
yron snuck upon it, ns did also the Santa Casilda. The Adeoria, a h( ;ding vcppiI. in li^SB, a''o
^triick upon it and was left dry ; and the Pcaglr, in going to hor as.=^i,otancc. crossed the tail ol ;!""
high water, occasionally striking the ground. Bougainville describes it.s position thus: "AVhcn:i:f
hillocks wliich I have named Quatre fils Aymond," (Asses Ears,) "only offer two to sight in fona
of a ^'ate, you are opposite the said rocks.
v^rv large quantit
IS 19 Mules distant
After emerging
tlie course of \\ h
rv, ill order to avi
passed twice thrt)
tlicin, which gav(
only altered I'i fe
and there was sea
he taken up with
securitv of the vi
POINT BAR
in the chart, its I
site side S;iriiiicn
.\fter reaching
lile peaked hilloci
of the tide, in fro;
rhorage is good,
tiling but shtdls ;
It is best to aiK
over the centre ol
The peaked hi
del Valle; to the c
Eleven Thousand
Cape Gregory wil
an island ; for the I
also be seen half w
beroines visible.
The extremity o
73° VV. (.S. 50° y
two miles and a hi
hills that form the
thorns. The bottc
of a stiffer quality,
from the shore ; chi
approach too near.
At the anchorag(
H half or three ho
which should be at
hour or more after
Upon the suinnii
extreme point, is a
bush is in lat. 52° ;
23^ 34' E.
The country abo
westward of the ca]
cipal residence is ii
where guanacoes a
thesoutliward also?
Gregory they have
from the eastward !
anchorage before it
They are very f
fond of beads and o
ter. Swords are }
arming their boias^
triches.
They also barter
^ Paraguay tea,) toll
> eager, but are eonti
muskets, powder ar
men, who left an E
i and it is to be hope
' THE SECOND
tuns five or six kno
reach au anchorage
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
597
v^ry larje t|nantity of kelp. Point Barranca bears from Cniie Gregory N. 4PJ° E. and
IS 19 HiileH distant.
Alter cmcr^inti; from the Narrow, the ship should lie alloued to drift with the tide,
tlie course of which is .S. .S. W. for at least IJ miles, before liauling u)) 'or Cape Grego-
rv, ill order to avoid the ripplinj.'s which rage furiously on each cdi^e of the bank. 1 have
passed twice thronch them for the sake of proving the depth. ;md once anchored within
them, which gave me an opjiortunity of ascertaining the rise and fall of the tide; but it
only altered I'J feet : tlie stream or current, however, set at Sand 4 knots the whole tide,
ami there was scarcely five minutes slack water. It is an anchorage tJiat ought not to
be taken up without the greatest necessity, for the ripplings break over the deck, and the
security of the vessel is very doubtful.
POINT BARRANCA is a flat topped sand hill, the position of which being given
in the chart, its bearing will inf!'"ate the situation of the ship: the point on the oppo-
site side Sarmiento called Point Baxa, (low.)
After reaching thus far, steer AV. S. W. by compass, until abreast of some remarka-
ble peaked hillocks on the north shore ; where, if necessary, anchorage may be had out
of the tide, in from G to 10 fathoms ; at any part of the northern side of the bay the an-
rhorage is good, upon a clay bottom covered with broken shells : the lead brings upno-
tiling but sh(>lls ; underneath, however, it is of day and good holding groun<l.
It is best to anchor near the shore on account of the tide, which ripples very mucuall
over the centre ol" the bay.
The jicaked hillock above mentioned is certainly Sarmiento's Point Nuesfra Senora
del Valle; to the eastward of it is St. .Tago Bay; and to the westward his Bay of the
Eleven Thousand Virgins. \Vhv°n abreast of the point, the land and bay 'o tlie north of
Cape Gregory will be easily distinguished; the former will be seen first, and resembles
an island ; for the land of the bay is (lat and low ; but a very conspicuous hummock will
also be seen halfway between it and the flat table land, as soon as the land of the cape
becomes visible. The hummock is marked on the chart.
The extremity of Cape (Jrc^iory bears from the western end of the First Narrow, S.
7.'P VV. (S. 50" ^ W. mag.) distant twenty-two miles. The anchorage is from two to
two miles and a half to the N. N. E. of the cajie, abreast of the north end of the sand
hills that form the headland, and about one mile from the shore, in from 13 to 15 fa-
thoms. Tlie bottom is eK;;ellent, a soft, but tenacious mud, which, nearer the shore, is
of a stifler quality. At low v. at' r a sand spit extends off for one third or nearly half a mile
from the shore ; close to which there are 7 fathoms water. Care should be taken not to
approach too near.
At the anchorage the tide turns to the south-westward, towards the cape, for two and
a half or three hours before it begins to run to the westward in the Second Narrow;
which should be attended to, for a ship will lose much ground by weighing before an
hour or more after the tide has turned.
Upon the summit of the land of the cape, four fifths of a mile to the northward of the
extreme point, is a remarkable liush ; close to which the ol)servations were inade. The
bush is in lat. 52"^ 38' 3" S., and long. 70° 9' 51" W. The variation of the compass
23^^ 34' E.
The country abounds with guanaooes and ostriches, and the valley, two miles to the
westward of the cape, is frequently the abode of the Patagonian Indians; but their prin-
cipal residence is upon the low land at the back of Peckett's Harbor and Quoin Hill,
where guanacoes are more abundant, and the country more open. Ships coming from
the southward also are seen by them at a great distance, so that by the time she reaches Cape
Gregory they have already arrived to meet her. They do not, however, see ships coming
from the eastward so easily, and we were, on two occasions, two or three days at the
anchorage before it was known that we were present.
They are very friendly, and will supply guanaco meat at a small price. They are
fond of beads and ornaments, but particularly of knives, and the larger they are the bet-
ter. Swords are held in high estimation by them, as well as lead for the purpose of
f arming their tolas, an instrument used to entangle the legs of the guanacoes and os-
] triches.
They also barter their inanlles and skins ; and are fond of sugar, flour, matte, (the
-i Paraguay tea,) tobacco, and horse gear, particularly bits. For spiiits they are very
eager, but are contented with it in a diluted state. At our last interview they asked for
muskets, powder and ball, the use of which they liave learned iVom two Portuguese sea-
men, who left an English sealing vessel to reside with them; but these were not given,
uiul it is to be hoped that such weapons will not be jmt i.ito their hands.
THE SECOND NARROW is about ten miles long; and, with a favorable tide, which
runs five or six knots, is very quickly passed. With an adverse wind a ship will easily
reach aa anchorage to the north of Elizabeth Island.
I". Vi
u
598
Blum's American coast pilot.
The north sule of tlic Socoiid iNarrow is very shoal, and ouffht not to be approaclicd,
for the ground is also very Coiil. Tiiere are two or three very iiivititiy; hiuiiis lor ii shin
that is eaiii;ht wiiii tlie tide, hut it is not advisable to anchor in them : she should ri\ili,r
ireturu to tiie anchorage oH'CJape (Irej^ory.
SUSANNAH COVK is wliere Sarniiento anchored in 8 fathoms, low water, Imli ,,
leagiu; from the land, <;ood bottom ; but, as it was exposed to the strei/^ili of tiie tide, i,.
shifted to another ancliora<:e about half a leai;ne west of (,'apc (Jreyory, wliere tlie ai
was dropped in 8 fathoms, but the vessel tailing on the edge of the shoal in .'3 fatl
he Avas ylad to make his escape.
IUIIl>,
The south shore wf the Second Narrow, which Narborouiili called the Sweepsfukfj
Foreland, is composed of cli/fs, and is. I believe, of bold approach. 'r\\o projectiin; lie ,|
in the centre is Sarmiento's St. Simon's Head, and the western end he named dipt >|
N'inceiit, from its resemblance to that of S|)ain. To the southward of the eastern );(,.,i
of this head, Point St. Isldro, which is a low sandy point, is Fish Cove, where Kiijluiv
and Cuinnrmsjs anchored their boat : and Sarmiento savs, " We anchored behind
befoie noticed, called Saiitisidro, in a small bay. of low land and sandy i)cach, in lofaili
at a ipiarterofa h^aaue from the shore, but upon veering cable tlie vessel was in
thoins ; so that fearing she would be left dry. Iron) the great rise and fal' of the
hereabout, we sliifted farther out to 15 fathoms, but the anchor dragged, and we
quently came to in 'J fathoms, sandy bottom, where, at low water, the deptli w;
th
\ pill
Sllli
Is i;
oms.
Three miles to the westward of Cape Cracia, the western end of the Second X
IITiiW
on the north side, is Oazy Harbor, so culled by Narborough ; it is a secure phwi ih
small vessels. The entranj;'e is nearly two miles long, and too narrow for large fhii,,,
unless the weather be moderate, when they might drop in or out wiili the tide ; i|,;.
depth inside is from .'5 to 10 fathoms. 'J'lure is neither wood nor water to be pi,i, ;i;(i
therefore no indueensent to enter it; a j)lan of it was made, it is described bv Sii J
Narborough, f and Cordova calls it iJirtI Uav (Knseiiatia de los Paxaros).t
iNAKBUKUUCH'S PECKKTT'S HARBOR, or, as Sarmiento called it, St. IW
tholomew's Ray, is 8 miles to the west of Cape (tracia, and, although very shoal, ofi'tr>/
good shelter, if requirtvl, for small vessels ; but the space is very confined ; the ;iiiiu.
rage without is -irhnost as safe, and nuuh more convenient. '^J'he distance between ii,f
two points of entrance is nearly two miles, but fror the nortli-east shore, to ihesii!,!!
island of the- south-wost point, the whole space is a shoal, upon the greater part of Hliia
the sea breaks in a moderate breeze.
Tlie entr;uice is between the soutli-west point and the island, and is rather morrMlisa
one-tifth of a mile wide Half a mile outside, the anchorage is good, in 7 lailidii/:
•shoal ground extends for a quarter of a mile olf the ])oint.
The bay, which is formed by Peckett's Harbor and Elizabeth Island, is exten.siveaiid
well sheltered, with an easy dej)th of wafer all over, between .5 and 7 fathoms ; ilie ii;i!iiif
iof the bottom is clay, and oilers excellent holding ground. In the centre is a |ii;iilii.:
kelp ; but it is not known whether the depth is shoaler in that part, or whether it ])rocec(ii
from the bottom being rocUy.
The tide is not strong to the westward of the north end of Elizabeth Island ;§ l)iitiiif>
with considerable velocity in the deej) channel between it and the Second ISarrdw. l-
the soutliward of the island the stream divides into two directions, and ver; suiiii Icsif
its strength ; one sets down the south side of the island, and the other between the ishiiu'i!
of Santa Martha and Magdalena. This is the Hood ; the ebb sets to the norlhwarii. Tlie
ebb and (low are regular, high water at the full and change, being at about 1-Jii'clmt
There is jrood anchorage, out of the strength of tide, at a mile to the north (if FinU
San Silvestre; it is convenient for a ship to leave with the intention of passiiiii rmwi
Elizabeth Island. I conceive this to be the most difficult part of the entrance of llie
.Strait of Magalhaei's, for the tide sets across the passage with some strength.
The passage to tlie west of the island is clear, and without danger, by keepina; inliie
juiddle of the channel ; but in jiassing down the south side of Elizabeth Island ilie sliore
should be ke|)t close to, to avoid being thrown upon tlie islands of Santa Martha unJ
Magdalena, II although T believe there is plenty of water between them, for Saiiiiifiiio
anchored there in 15 fathoms ; as well as to clear the shoal that extends olf the soiiili-
west end of the latter island, ujion which we did not find less water than o fathoms ii|ioii
* Sarmiento, ji. X^tiT. t Narborputrh, p. G2 and V2l. H'ltimo Viaae, p. 107.
§Eli/al)edi .'sluiiJ was so named by Sir I';-ancis Drake. Sarmiento passed iis north cast end,
and, consideri'ig it a jiart of the Continent, called it Point San Silvestre. — [Sarmiento, p. 255.)
||T!!P ■'■'::. ids of Santa Martha and Magdalena, so named by Sarmiento, (p. 251) have ?i:iff
been called by other names ; the former St. Burtholoniuvv, the latter St. Georjje's, ulso rcnsui"''*'-
and.— [See N arborough's Voyage, p. 62.]
\
■
nnv part;* but t
lo'triist too mil
rhroll'^d) kelp ; I
wherever the i)o
1-,'iideis the few
for it serves as a
out that a ship i
that hv its drift it
LAKE DO l'..\
particuhirly in tl
ainoii;: wliich tin
At litiredo I?
iliaineter at aboii
l'"or the pur))!!
md secure berth
the sonth-west e
Cape Negro, wh
\V'e know scar
twecMi (jape St.
not be api'.roaclu
ter. and the ancin
Two deep inlet
land near Cape (i
tallied.
Between Cape
cliorage may be 1
begins to be thick
in the vieinitv of J
SANDY' PO!
than a mile from
projects olf it in a
on a remarkaldy c
south side of the \
and a half trom tin
To the soutlivva
had at three quarl
ovei clay. At the
so that, with the a\
by keeping outside
nnich so as to lav
jad in coasting th
(iripes, because th
hind stpialls arc de
POINT ST. i\]
pnd may be knowr
Bay. it has also
cepting a few deai
As the bay opens,
markable round h:
south of it, throuc
It is convenient
timber, watering if
no material conse(
When the wind
need be apprehen
from that tpiarter,
does, the holding
In standing into
frnm the coast, in
^ hliiir points at the
I bears W. S. W., \
the bay, among w
Round its edge thi
•ShoaloffSnnta J
the least water foun*
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
>99
nnv pnit;* but tlin a;roiin(l hciri^ irrcszuliir. nnd much Uclp strinved alxiut it, it is not safe
III trust too imicli to apiieiiiaiices. On all occasions, it is a(lvisai)lc to avoid passiiijiy
rl)nm,'li K<'lp ; lor altlioiif;li it tVc(iiieiitly shoots ii]) iVoin ID, and even •?.{) lathonis, yet,
wlii'it'Vi'i- the holtoni is rocky, tlicre it is to he t'ouiid. Tlui presence of this ve!j;etal)le
ii'iiilcis llie fe\.' (lauiiers that exist in tlu; iiavi^ialioii oi' the strait of little c<jiise()iience,
lor it serves as a hiioy to tiiarU the existence oCthein. and it is only l)y a careless look-
out that a ship can he placed in a danj;erous situation. AnothfT advantage in Uelp is,
that l)V its (hill it shows hoth the direction and velocity of the tide.
JiAiiKOO \\X\ oH'crs irood anchorage in the centre and towards tlie north side, and
pariicularly in the north-west corner. < )if the south point is a large patch of kelp,
anion:: which the iirounil is shoal and foul.
At fiaredo Bay wood may he procured, and tliere is a fresli water lake of a mile in
diameter at about half a mile behind the beach, much frecpieiited by wild ducks.
F'orthe purjiose of anchoraa;e only, the bay need not be entered ; because a very good
nnd secnn! berth may be found at from 1 to '2 luiles olf it, in 10 to i;5 fathoms, having
the south-west extremity of Eli/.abeth Island on with, or a little open of, the trend of
Cape Negro, 'vhich is Byron's Porjiesse Poiot.
We know scarcely any thina; of the south side of St. Pliilip's Bay, or of the coast be-
tween Cape St. Vincent and Cape Momuonth. 'I'he latter is a lee shore, and should
lint be ainiroached when the wind is northerly, for there seems to be no harbor or shel-
ter, and the anchorage must be much exposed.
Two deep inlets were seen behind Sweepstakes Foreland, from the summit of the table
hiiul near Cape (iregory, one of which may probably insulate it, but this was not ascer-
tained.
Between Cape Negro and Sandy Point, which is Sarmiento's Catalina Ray, good an-
chorage may be had, from one to two miles and a half from the shore. Here the country
begins to be thickly wooded, and to assume a very picturesque appearance, particularly
in the vicinity of Sandy Point.
SANDY' POINT, Sarmiento's Cape de San Antonio de Padua, projects for more
than a mile from the line of coast, and should not be [lassed within a mile. A shoal
l)rojecfs olf it in an east direction (mag.) Tlie mark for its south edge is a single tree,
on a remarkably clear part of the country, (a park like meadow,) near the shore, on the
south side of the point, in a line wi-h a deep ravine in the mountain behind. One mile
and a half from the point, we had no bottom with IH fathoms.
'i'o the southuud of Sandy Point, as far as Point St. Mary, good anchorage may be
had at three quarters of a mile from the shore, in 11 and IvJ fathoms, sand and shells
nvei clay. At the edge of the kel)), which fronts the shore, there are o and b fathoms;
so that, with the wind offshore, a ship may anchor or sail along it very close to the coast,
by keeping outside the kelp. The squalls olf the land are very strong, sometimes so
much so as to lay a ship on her broadside. It is not jjrudenl, therefore, to carry much
jail in coasting this part; and it is necessary to have the quarter boats secured with
gripes, because the wind, for a moment, blows with the force of a hurricane. These
land stpialls are denominated by the sealers "williwaws."
POINT ST. MARV, in lat'. 5:>° 21' 40", is 12^ miles to the south of Sandy Point,
end may be known by the land trending in to the southward of it, forming Fresh Water
Bay. It has also a high bank close to the beach, with two patches bare of trees, ex~
cepting a few dead stumps. All the points to the northward are low and thickly wooded..
As the bay opens, the blulV points at its south end become visible. There is also a re-
markable round hill a short distance behind the centre of the bay, and a valley to the-
south of it, through whicli a river flows and falls into the bay.
It is convcnietu for wooding at, but from the river being blocked up by much drift
timber, watering is difficult. The proximity, however, cf Port Famine renders this of
no iTiaterial consequence.
When the wind is from the noriliward, a swell is thrown into the bay : but no danger
need be apprehended from its being open to the eastward, for the wind seldom blows
from that quarter, excepting in the winter, and then rarely with great strengtli. If it
does, the holding ground is good, and with good gear there is no danger.
In standing into the bay from the northward, keep within three (juarters to half a mile
from the coast, in 10 or 11 fathoms; and passing Point St. i.Iary, steer on towards the
blulf points at the south end of the bay, until the south pitcii of tlie Ontre Mount
bears W. S. W., when you vvill be clear of the kelp that extends off the north side of
the bay, among which I believe there is a sufficiency of water, but tjie ground is foul.
Round its edge there are 6 and 7 fathoms. Having the mount bearing as above, steer
I
* Shoal off Santa Mngdalcna. Simpson's Journal says there are 3 fathoms on it in manj- places ;
the least water foun<d by us was 5 fathoms.
GOO
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
for it, or a little to tlie south of it, and anchor in ') fathoms, sandy mud over clay, whici,
will be with the followins: beariii^rs :
Point St. Mary N. 15° W. 'I
Outer tnmd N. 9° W.
Centre Mount (south pitch) S. 74°i W.
I^ntranee of Kivor S. 35 ^ W.
South Biufi" S. 21° E.
Mag.
A aood berth may be had much nearer the shore in C> fathoms, towards whirh i|,f
depth gradually decrease.", if the anchorage is used merely as a stopping place, the
first is best, for the wind near the shore is a|)l to (low and veer about.
Between Freshwater Bay and Point Sfuita Anna the coast is very bold, and so stcpp
as to olfcr no anchorage, excepting in the bay that is formed by the reef olV RotU
Point; but it is sni:i'l and inconvenient to weigh from, should the wind be southoilv.
Should the day bo advanced, it is better to anchor in Freshwater Bay tlian run ilio
risk of being under way all night, unless it be in the sununer, with moonlight ;wul ibe
weather likely to be fine. In this climate, however, the latter is very doui)tful, for wea-
ther changes so suddenly that no dependence can be placed upon appearances.
POINT SANTA AiN'NA will appear, on standing down near the conr.t, to be the
termination of the land ; it is a long point extending into the sea, having at the cxtiemiiy
a clump of trees. It bears from Cape Valentyn 8. 47i° W. mag. On approachiiijit,
the distant point of Cape St. Isidro will be seen beyond it ; but there can be no doubt or
mistake in recognizing it.
Along the whole extent of the coast, between the Point Santa Anna and Eliznbeth
Inland, the flood sets to the soi thward and the ebb to the northward, and it is lii^h
water about 12 o'clock at full and change. The variation is about 23° west. T;;e
etrength of the tide is not great, but frequently after a so itherly wind there is, in the
offing, a current to the northward independent of the tide. In winter the tides occa-
sionally rise very high, and on one occasion, in the month of June, nearly overflowed
the whole of the low land on the west side.
PORT FAMINE. — Standing into Port Famine, pass round Point Santa Anns.ii
with a leading wind, at one tifth of a mile, in 17 fathoms ; but if the wind is scanty, do
not get too near, on account of the eddy tide, wliich sometimes se's towards the poim,
Steer in for the bottom of the bay, for the summit of Mount St. Philip, keping it over
the centre' of the depth of the bay ; th«t is, halfway between the rivulet (whicii will lip
easily distinguished by a small break in the trees) and the N. W. end of the clear bni
on the west side of the bay. This bank being clear of trees, and covered with griiss.u
very conspicuous. Keep on this course until the mouth of Sedger River is open, and
upon shutting in the points of its entrance, shorten sail and anchor in 9, 8, or 7 fiitiioim,
as convenient. The best berth, in the summer, is to anchor over towards the west side
in 9 fathoms, with Cape Valentyn in a line with Point Santa Anna ; but in the winter
season with N. E. winds, the best berth is more in the centre of the bay.
The strongest winds are from the south-west. It blows also hard sometimes I'loin
south, and occasionally a fresh gale out of the valley, to the south of Mount St. Pliilip,
Unless a long stay be meditated, it would be sufficient to moor with a kedge to tlie.N,
E. The ground is ex;'ellent all over the port, being a stiff tenacious clay. Lnmlir,;
may be almost always effected, excepting in easterly gales, on one side or the other,
There is fire wood in abundance on the beaches, and wells containing excellent fiesk
water, were dug by us at the N. W extremity of the clear part of Point Santa Aiinn.nn
the bank above the third or westernmost small shingle bay. The water of tiie river, as
well as of the ponds, of which there are many upon the flat shore of the western side of
the port, is very good for present use, but will not keep, in consequence of its llowin;
through an immense mass of decomposed vegetable matter ; but the water of the weiis
drains through the ground, and not only keeps well, but is remarkably clear and wcil
tasted. Their situation is marked on the plan, and for some time our traces will no;
fail to show the road.
Our observatory, the situation of which is indicated by the stem of a tree If) inclifi=in
diameter, placed upright about 8 feet under and 3 above the ground, banked up by a
mound, is in lat. 53° 38' 12", and 70° 54'. High water at full and change at I2o'cloci;;
the ebb sets to the northward, and the flood to the southward ; but the rise anti fall is
very irregular, depending entirely upon the prevalence of the winds, northerly and east-
erly winds causing high tides, and westerly and south-westerly low tides. The varia-
tion is about 23° 30'.
Of the tiues in Pcs3ession Bay and the First Narrow, we have had too little experi-
ence to enable us to give a very clear account: I shall therefore here confine myself
merely to euch observations as may be of service to the navigator.
To the sDiiih-
issage ; but (Ik
cai"il to risi'.
Tlie same is l'
-.11 tne centre of
(tioon's passage, ;
sage. Til is ob-ii
.■U, an aiirliiirage n
leet, and ran at t
tide cDinmenees
At tlieaiicliorai
in ilir First N.irn
later iM'I'ore liii'y t
place regularly \.
a few iiiiiiulcs of
was eight feel.
Stru'.t of JM'ugtdh
US F. LESS 1!
,"^1. Sebastian (Jli
n'a(tliinL;-. p.'cliap^
.!() miles deej), as
ri'irlli slii)r(! alfon!
iiinler the hill em I
'j'hc lenninatin
name of Sannieiii
'J'liis country a!
nil luinting than I
at adistaiiee iVom
D.VWSON LSI
.Sniiiid, is 4() mile-
low, but becoiuea
Freshwater Bay.
the western side oi
Lomas Hay and I
commeiuled. Lo
cx])osed to the uoi
prevalent.
Lieutenant (hw
the prevailing wim
stiii'bliie clay, .■ill'i
jf tlie shores also
thrown up, even ii
cieiitly pleiitil'iil, a
iiiiieli resortcil to 1
beach.
Between Lomas
cepting at Preserv
small size.
POUT S.\N A
posite to San Nicl
ibrtniglit that we
from the violence i
anchors. Wc afst
us well as the iiarn
This place recei
by him to be three
that width, and de.<
indeed, for any ves
on the opposite or
The anchorage i
Island, ill wliich, p
ilroppeil ill from 1(
situated ou the iuuc
ULUNT's AMLIilCAN COAfST IMLOl'.
001
.-eif clay, which
ards which tl,e
)ing place, the
1, and so steep
reef off Rockv
»e *oiuliniy.
y tliaii niiiilic
juliijht and the
iilitful, for wes.
ances.
coar.t, lo be the
It the extifiiiiiv
apiJi'oachiiisii,
1 be no doubt or
and Elizabeth
I, and it is hi:h
!3° west. T.;e
there is. in the
tlie tides occa-
sarly overflowed
Santa Anna, if
lul is scanty, do
vards the point,
», keping it nvfr
(which will he
the cieiir bank
with jiriisj.is
er is open, and
or 7 tiithoim,
s the west siJo
in the wiMicr
ioinetimes I'rnm
lunt St. Plillip,
edge to the.N,
ay. Lnmiiiis
e or the oilier.
excellent fresli
Santa Aiiiin, on
,)!' the river, as
western side of
of its lloffinj
ter of the welis
clear and wil
traces will not
■ee 16 inches in
•anked up l)y a
eat 12 o'clock;
rise and fall is
herly and east-
!S. The varia-
0 little experi-
confine mjs«l(
To iho soiith-e.ist ol' Cape Possession it is high water at Ui. h()n\. hoforc the inoon's
HHii<;e ; Imt the stream of tide conliimes to run in until two hours after the water has
ei^'d to rise. The easterly tide coiniiiences at •,>li. ."jtiin. hefore the ciilmiiiatioii.
Tiie same, is the case as (aras, and evci in, ilii^ [''ir-t Narmw, eseepliiii; in the times,
-n tlie centre of I'ossessiuM I'.iy, near the hink, it was lii^li \»ait.'ral .'ill. olin. hefore the
moon's pass,i;;e, and the tide imiii'd to the eastward at noon, or Oh. ;i')m. after tht; pas-
su.re. This ohservation was made on tlu; day of full mumi. 'i'lie rise was i.'H feet, but
at an aiieliorat;e more tr) tlir^ westwaid, near tlr.; soi^ith-wesl end of the hank, it rose ;55
f(M't, and ran at the rate of six knots and a <ni.irti'r. In the I'irst Narrow the eastern
tide coiiuni'iices at noon (full ami ehaii^^e.)
At tlieaii(;hora;j;e in (ir.v'^'ory i»ay the oastrriy tide commeiieed ■20 minutes earlier than
in (lie Fu'st iNarrow. In th(! .Second Narrow tiie tides are two ami a half or thre<; hours
|;ilcr l)efore they turn. Totli" westward of the Soroiid N.irrowhiuh and low water take
|il:\cc reiiiilarly with llie set of the tide, and the former o(!curs, at full and change, within
;i few mimiies ofiiooi;. The rise and I'all is iucoiisideialde ; the greattist we experienced
was eight feel.
Sira il (if Magidliaem
-Daivtijii. Ishtnil — Adni'irdlhj Suuiid — llic (tah id, Corkburr), and
IJ.SKLKS.S 1>AV was exainined iii ilin hopo of its eommmiicating with the snp))osed
St. Sebastian Channel, of t!ie old ciiari.s; hut it i)roved to he teriuinated liy low land,
roacliiii'j;. p. M-liaps, across the (MHiiiiry, t(»wai(is (.'ai)C St. Iv-ipiriiu Santo, Il is nmrethau
:',i) miles deep, and from 1 -J to -JO wide, ami entirely exp(>se(| to the south-west. The
(Kirlli sliiiri^ afl'orils no shelter, hiU on the soiMh there is an indentation of the coast lino
iinder the hill called Nose I'eak, that may possibly alford a sheltered an( liora^e.
The termination of tli" (hit table ridge.'^extendinj; to the N. V.. from Point Jioqueron, a
n;iino of .Sarmieiito's. meaniii';' an opeiiini^s is alirupt ami very precipitous.
'J'liis conniry abunnds with Lniauacoes, and the Indians an> ))robal>ly more dependent
on himimg than lisliim; for their suljsisteuce, for wt; (djservcd their fires upon the hills,
,it adistiiiice, fromthe coast.
JJAWSON ISLAND, which fronts Useless Hay, and thedeej) iidet called Admiralty
.•■loiiiid, is 4f) milcvs hni!:, and aljoiit -jO broad. Its northern extremity. Cape Valentyn, is
low, i)ut l)Ci;onies visible in passinir down the op|)osite shore, betw* en Sandy Point and
('"rcshwater l>ay. jMoimt (Jrave-, however, is seen I'rom a much i:;ieat(;r distance. On
iiio western side of ihc island there are but U\o places in which vessels can anchor, viz.,
jjoiuas Bay and Port San Antonio, but botli beina; on a le(! shore, they are not to be re-
lommended. Thomas Hay is a di'ep l)i:!;ht, siifliciently sjifdlered from S. W., but quite
I'xposei! to the nortli-west and westerly winds, which, (luring the winter, iire the most
prevalent.
Lieutenant Craves rema.rks that Lomar, Day, although only tolerably sheltered from
(he prevailing winds, would, from its extent (six miles dee|)) and nature of the bottom, a
stiff blue clay, ail'm-d good shelter for vessels of any draft or burden. The a])pearance
.)f the shores also seem to favor studi on opinion, for scarcely any driftwood was found
thrown up, even in those parts whieh were most exposed to the surf. Wood is suffi-
ciently plentiful, and water very abundant. This bay appears at certain seasons to he
much resorted to by the Indians, for Ujjwards of twenty wigwams were seen near the
beach.
Between Loiuas Bay and Cape St. N'^alentyn, there is no landin,g, even for a boat, ex-
cepting at Preservation Cave, which aifords only just room enough to beach one of
small size.
POUT SAN ANTONIO, which is situated about the centre of the west coast, op-
posite to San Nicholas Bay, has the lippearance of being well sheltered, but during a
fortnight that we spent tluu-e we e\|)erienced so nuich inconvenience, and even risk,
from the violence of the siiualls, that we were obliged to secure the vessel with three
anchors. We also fouinl some difficulty in leaving it, on account of the baflling winds,
as well as the narrow width of the i)assage, for we went out by the north entrance.
This ])Iace received the distinguishing c-pithet of Port from Cordova, and is described
by him to be three tpiarters of a mile wide; instead of which, it is scarcely one third of
that width, and deserves the name only of a cove. It is a very unfit ])lace for a ship, or,
indeed, for any vessel to enter, especially when there are so many much better places
on the oi)i)nsite or continental shore
The anchorage is formed by a channel within the islands Norlli Lsland and San .Tuan
Islanil, in which, particularly at the north end, are several islets. The tmchor may be
dropped in from 10 to 15 fathoius, olf a small beach in ilununing-bird Cove, which is
situated on the inner side, and about half a 'mile from the south end of San Juan Island.
7(.
m
m
m
602
BLUNT'h AMEUICAPf COAST PILOT.
From the west end of North Island a reef extends olFfor a (luarter of a mile, and to tlm
southward are two small islets, wliicli may be passed on either side. North Isliind ia
8e|)arated iVom San Juan Island by a narrow and ini])assal)lc strait.
The south entrance is, perhaps, tlio hest, all)i')U!,'h wilii a northerly wind tlie noi ^m
should be preferred. There is no dani;er but what is evident: the ground, however, ,>
not very clean until you reach [lunnuing-bird Cove.
The south entrance is tolerably wide. In entering, haul round the south point .if
San Juan [sland, for near the shore of the eastern side there is a rock under watt,, dp.
posite to Humminjj-bird Cove, in a small bij^lit, there is a stream of fresh water.
POUT VALDEZ is a deep inlet, fronting; \V. N. W., and not at all invitin<; to enipr,
From the appearance of the hills, squi'.lls uuist be very fre(|iit;nt, and blow with tliegrcni.
est violence; for trees are seen torn up by the roots, in long lines, evidently v.auspd U
the destructive force of the winds.
The ebb tide sets to the north through the channel.
THE GAliRIEL CHANNEL separates Dawson Island from the Ticrra del Fiip;,,
It is merely a ravine of the slate formation, into which the water has found its way and
insulated the island. It extends precisely in the direction of the strata, with almost |i;i.
rallel shores. It is 25 miles lonu; and from half a mile to one mile and a half wide, ih»
narrowest part being; in t'e centre. The north shore is -t ridge of slate, rising abruptlv
to a sharp edge, and then as abruptly descending on the opposite side, where it fonnsi
valley, which, had it been a little deeper, would have been tilled by water and havelje-
come another channel like the Gabriel.
'I ha south side of the Gabriel Channel is formed by a high mass of mountains, pro.
bably the most elevated land in the Tierra del t'''uego. Among many of its high peiib
are two more conspicuous than the rest. Mount Sarmiento and Mount liucklaml. The
first is 6,800 feet high, and, rising from a broad base, terminates in two peaked suinniiis,
bearing from each other N. E. and S. W., and are about a quarter of a mile asunder.
From the northward it aj pears very much like the crater of a volcano ; but when viewed
from the westward, the two peaks are in a line, and its volcanic resemblance ceases. I;
is noticed by Sarmicnto as well as by Cordova, in th-^* journals oftheir respe^-tive voyages,
Sarmiento calls iL Volcan Nevado (the .Snowy Volcano.)
It is the most remarkable mountain in the stiait ; but from the state of the climate
and its being clothed with per|)etual snows, it is almost always enveloped in condensed
vapor. During a low temperature, however, particularly with a N. E. or S. E. wind,
when the sky is often cloudless, it is exposed to view, and presents a magnificent ap.
pearance. From its great height and situation it served our purpose admirably to con-
nect the points of the survey. It was seen, and bearings of it were taken, froni tholu'-
lowing distant stations, vi/.., Eli/.abeth Island, Port Famine, Cape Holland, Port Gal-
lant, and Mount Skyring, at the south entrance of the Barbara Channel.
MOUNT BUCKLAND is, by estimation, about 4,000 feet high. It is a pyramidal
block of slate, with a sharp pointed apex, and entirely covered with perpetual snow.
Between these mountains the summit of the range is occupied by an extensive gla-
cier, the constant dissolution of which feeds the innumerable cascades that pour Iar2i
bodies of water down the rocky pneipices overhanging \'-°. south shore of the Gabriel
Channel.
At the extremity of the cliannel is Fitton Harbor ; and on the opposite side of Cape
Rowlett arc Port Cooke and Brookes Harbor.
PORT COOKE is a very convenient and useful port. It is slieltered by a high
wooded island. The anchorage is off the rivulet on the west side, in 9 fathoms.
BROOKES HARBOR, like Fitton Harbor, is spacious, but not good as a port, fui
the water is deep, and the anchorages, being in coves, are not easy of access witlio'U llie
labor of towing.
ADMIRALTY SOUND extends for 43 miles to the S. E. into the land of Tiern
del Fucgo. It is 7 miles wide at the entrance, and gradually diminishes to 3. OnJs
north side the ^hore is very straight, but the south side has two deep inlets, Ainsworth
and Parry Harbors. It terminates in a bay, affording anchorage in from 10 to 15 fa-
thoms, but very much exposed to N. W. winds, which, I should think, from the funnel
shape of the sound, would blow with furious strength. On the north side of the bay is
Mount Hope, a lofty insulated mass of rock, but to the south of it lies a considerable
tract of low land, over which the view was unobstructed for u considerable distance, and
was bounded by a distant mountain, in the direction of the position of Captain Basil
Hall's Volcano,* in lat. 54' 48', long. di-^. If the volcano exists, it is most probably
the abo"e mountain, but we saw nothing to indicate the appearance of its being in an
eroptive state. It is placed o the chart from Captain Hall's authority.
♦ A Loo Choo story, probably. See B. Hall's book.— E. 6u G. W. B.
In Ainsworth H;!
tains at the back ol
(llPSfl).
PAKRV IIAKI
west side there are
.•small vessel.
'J'lie eastern side
l;irlv Mrenton iSonm
witii 1/omas Hay, tl
Till- large (enlral
rciii.iikiibly sii;trp-p(
NO.N'-KNTRV I
(Icpfli hctwccri the p
FOX 1!A\-.— Tl
kelp. A rapid stre;
is iu from 3 to .5 fat
witliiii 20 yards of tl
HARRIS BAV^
AVILLES BAY,
small extent, atl'ords
tide rises and falls a!
At the bottom of Wi
feet security. Thei
part.s, there is the sai
CAP.: ST. VAL
and has a small hum
cape there is a slighi
sels (rom any wind
beach, below high w;
und perfectly unshelt
The opening of M
northward it appear;
Cape San Isidro that
rection for 20 miles,
ticularly on the west
• low narrow tongue o
called by Sarmiento i
' on its s.nnmit.
Under this mount;
bound through the s
rocky bed, on which
basin, with good anch
ofl the high land, whi
This little port is mui
side, some of which
ing ab;ient on a fishin
To the south of IL
I Inlet. It is three mil
I but neither so good ni
three islets, (Rees Tsh
MOUNT BOQUE
cipitous and lofty moi
I but remarkably consp
f a part of the western i
a south-west gale, are
occasion our decked si
than 2i miles wide. (
0 the south-east for 2
• SHOLL BAY is :
; Point. There is a rec
^ On the opposite sho
; and is between 4 and i
In the centre of Ma,
at a short distance to
Labyrinth Islands, am
DLUNT*8 AMERIC;»JJ COAST PILOT.
603
2, and to Hip
rth Island in
[\ (Id Fun;;,
1 its way mul
h almost |i;i.
itlf wide, the
nni; abru|ii|v
ire it fi)riii<'i
and have lie-
untains, pro-
s high peaks
;ivhui(l. The
ted duiiiniiis,
lile asunder.
when viewed
:e ceases, I;
tive voyagej,
' the climate
in condense')
■ S. E. winii,
gnificent up-
djly to con-
om thefo'-
, Port Gal-
I pyraniiila!
al snow,
[tensive gla-
\t jjour hm
the Gabriel
side of Cape
by a high
Ills.
s a port, fui
wiihont the
d of Tiern
[) 3. On :ts
Ainsworth
10 to 15 la-
I the funnel
f the bay is
;onsiderable
[stance, and
plain Basil
St probably
being in an
In Ainswnrth Hf;rhor there is anclioiage at the liottoni, on tlic west sido. Tho nioun-
fains at the back of the liarbor arc capped by an fnormou.s glacier that descends into
(bcst-a.
J'AKllV HAIM50K is about five iiiilcH deej) and tlirre wide. At the entrance on the
vest side there are two coves, cither of which (jllcr a i onvcnicnt .stopping place for a
.small vessel.
'J'lii! ea-stern side of Dawson Island is very much intersected by deep inlets, particu-
larlv lircnton ;->onnd, and its tcnnitiation, i'ort Owen, which very nearly cunimunicates
wiiii hoMias Bay, the dividini; land Ix'ing low and marshy.
Till' lar^e central island in Hniiiuii .'-loiiiid, AVickhaiii Islanil, is liigii, and there is a
rciii;iikiil)l\' siiarp-peakf'd hill upon it, ^vlli<■h i.s seen in clear weather from Port Famine.
i\0.\-i;.\'rilV BAY' was not examine.!. It appciued to offer snug anchorage. The
depth between the points of entrance was from '.) to I') fathoms.
FOX P>AN'. — The bottom and south side are shoal, but the banks are indicated \y
kelp. A rapid stream of water empties itself into tlie bay. The anchorage in Fox Bay
is in from :i to o fathoms. The north liead, Steep Tree IJlull', i.s of bold approach :
within 'JO yards of the shore the depth is ') iVtlioni.s.
HARRIS RAV^ is an indenturi; of the; coast, two miles deep.
AVILLES BAY, oil" which is Offmg Island, by which it may be known, although of
small extent, a/Vords excellent anchorage, upon a mud bottom, in 'J or 10 fathoms. The
tide rises and falls about d feet. It is high water at lull and change, about 12 o'clock.
At the bottom of Willes Ray is Philip (i id ley Cove, where a small vessel may lie in per-
fect .security. There are not less than 3 fathoms in the entrance, and inside, in most
parts, there is the same depth.
CAPi] ST, VALKNTV^N is the northern extremity of Dawson Island. It is low,
and has a small hunmiock near the point. Between the tw(> points which form the
cape there is a slight incui vation of the shore, which would afford shelter to small ves-
sels from any wind to the southward of east or west ; but the water is shoal, and the
beach, below high water mark, is of large stones. The coast to the south-west is open,
und perfectly unsheltered : it is backed by cliHs. I'he beach is of shingle.
Tlie opening of Magdalen Sound was first noticed by Sarmiento. Coming from the
northvvard il appears to be a continuation of the strait, and it is not until after pa.ssing
Cape San Isidro that the true channel becomes evident. It extend.s in a southerly di-
rection for 120 miles, and is bounded on either side by high and i)recipitous hills, par-
ticularly on the west shore The eastern entrance of tlie sound. Anxious Point, is a
low narrow tongue of land, with an island o(f it. Opposite to i( is a steep mountain,
called by Sarmiento the Vernal, (or summer house,) Irom a remarkable lump of rock
on its s.immit.
Under this mountain is Hope Harbor, a convenient stopping place for small vessels
bound through the sound. The entrance is narrow, with kelp across it, indicating a
rocky bed, on which we had not less than 7 fathoms. Inside it opens into a spacious
ba.sin, with good anchorage in 4 fathoms, sheltereil from all winds, excepting the squalls
otl the high land, which must blow with furious violence during a south-westerly gale.
This little port is much frequented by Indians, for we found many wigwams on the south
side, some of which were occupied by the women and children of a tribe, the men be-
ing absent on a fishing excursion.
To the south of Hope Harbor, betweenjthe Vernal and Mount Boqueron, is Stokes'
Inlet. It is three miles long, with deep water all over: there is a cove on its north side,
but neither so good nor so accessible as Hope Harbor. In the entrance of the inlet are
three islets, (Rees Islets.)
MOUNT BOQUERON, the extremity of which is Squally Point, is a very pre-
' cipitous and lofty mountain, about 3000 feet high, and having on its summit three small
but remarkrtbly conspicuous peaks. It is the eastern head of Stokes' Inlet, and forms
a part of the western shore of Magdaien Sound. The squalls that blow off this during'
a south-west gale, are most furious, and dangerous unless little sail be carried. On one
occasion our decked sailing boat was 7 hours in passing it. The sound here is not more
than 2^ miles wide. On the opposite shore, within Anxious Point, is an islet extending
' 0 the south-east for 2 or 3 miles, but is narrow and unimportant.
SHOLL BAY is a small bight of the coast line, 5 miles to the south of Squally
^ Point, There is a reef off it, the position of which is pointed out by kelp.
■k On the opposite shore is Keats' Sound. It extends to the south-east for 6 or 8 miles,
'rt! and is between 4 and 5 miles wide,
*l In the centre of Magdalen Sound, abreast of the above opening, is a rocky islet; and
at a short distance to the southward, on the western coast, is a bay and group, called
Labyrinth Islands, among which small vessels may find good anchorage.
M
n
m'l
li
(iOi
IJI.lJiXT H AMIiniCAN COAST PILOT.
TKANSITIDN JJAY ,^ tlrrp, ;iiiil nlliulf im|»riiliincc. l-'oiir milrs fiiillit'r, iii C,,!,.
'ruin, llii' slum' Iii'ikIn sikIiIchI) huiiiiI. J lire iMiiimIiiIcii Siuind H'liiiiiiiiii s, ;iiii| d.ii^.
burn ( 'liiHitii'l cDinniriici's.
On the (i|>|i(iMlc sliuic, In llic solilli (•(" l\< ills' Sinind, llii'ir ;iic nii dliji its wi.nl ,
lic'um, ('Mr|iluij; iMdunt Saruin'iiiii, v. Iiicli lias hicu ;ilir;i(ly (Ir.sciiln d, iiml r)i;;ii,|,|
Mill, which Wiis 11)1111(1111 Im-','.')!!!! !'< el liii:li.
TiK'ipolKini (if i\I;it;il;ili'ii SiHiikI is d iiiilis «i:lr, liiit sit ('apt' 'I'lilii lln' rlianiMl i,,,,.
riiwslD'J niili's, ami iMtiiic |iarlisiiiii iikhi' tliaii 1/ ii;ili' w i'lc. 'riM'sniitJi sliuir is Mimi,
liidkcn, ami llitic ale man) siiiimis pi'm lialinn <l< rjlv inl<i llir land, u liii li, in lln-; |i;ii
acrnrdiuj; lo (,'aptaiii l''il/,ni_\'s siiivi'V <d' 'rir;r\r--.'M)nnd. is 7 miles w idc. MIcvimi im:.,
more to llic westward, at ('i)iirl<iiav Siuiiid. lin' u idih ol ilic iirninsida is nui mmi' il,,,,
:; mill's.
WAIJI' ^>\^ . ;dilmm;li CNiinKcd tu muiI lici I_v w inds, is a (■iiinniiciil sli)|ipiiii; |)|;,ii ■
a plan >\ as madi' nl il.
.^TOK.MN' WW isavnvwild iiii-lirili i.'d place, unlit I'nr anv vessel In slop al. .\;
l))P !UU'li*ira};(> llie \>ater is deep, \'i to 'JU rallmms, and lin- Imltnui riicUy. 'I'lie Inn |,
strewed iiver wiili slmajs, iIm' exisieiiee id' wiiieli is marked \i\ kelp: lliesc narriiwil,
ell imiid so nuieli as to render tlie eiiiram e and esil linlli iiitrieale and dillienlt li
ir ;in
liiit a small and
hand
V vessi
I'AKK WW is linili VI rv snnu, and sei ure, uilli ^nml anelmrai'e ii
I'all
inlllK, Mill,;
and mud. it lias llm same disadvaiila,<ir as yiorniv l!a\ . in liein^ in the lee ; ide ni
cliaimid, and is, fhercroie, diDieiill lo teavi
Tli'Mi' is, Imi\s ever, here, iiane riMiiii hi U
oul, and no dampers lo enennnlei lint what are \isilile. At the N. I"., amje ol' lli
!■ h.W
s a narrovv isilimns. mil mure than ."idil yaMJs across, separal ,'^ i
I Iriim Mereiirv Si
I'liich was nut examined, it is laiil down Irom an evi'
•tell.
y Siiiiiiii.
Ill working down tlu; elriiiiuel, llie soulli side slimild he prel'erred, as it is a wrailni
shore, and seems to lie In Iter providi-d with coves and liarliors to anchor in.
KIM; AM) i''rr/IM>\' ISI,.\NI)S in uiid-clianml, arrid' Imld approa(di; nsm
also ivirke's IJmdvS more to the wislward.
'.riie llood tide sets to the southward, or lo seaward, liiit was not found lo run will
ih::
fii'ieiit 8tri!nii;tli, Ut lienelit or impede a vessel iicatiiiij; lliroii};li. The rise and fall isiil-K
iiiroiisideralile, not beinjj; more ihaii d, or at most, H feel at spring,' tides.
'riiere are several anchoiave-; anionu I he I'rowsi^ Islandf:, which are very nunieiini*,
and skirl the eoasi lor seveial miles. i>eiiind them the land Ireiidsin and forms ii iluii
sound. The Adidaide Sidiuoii
nchored in a hav on the norlii side of one ol' ih
I' i>:
ands o|)p.osite to ihirrow Head, in li fathoms; liiit there are many phuu's of a sim
lure, e(
h
iiallv convenient and secure. A \
11
cs.-
I, ill
want of aiichoraiie
mil
Id I
iliinij-
lUi-l ,1
loal out and wait in the oilim; itiilil me answeriiifi ihe purpose he found. I'liihiiiii
iliese ilee|)-waler hays, a imal should always he hoisted out, and a hawser kepi niiilyin
luake fast lo the shore, il will he iVeijiienlly necessary lo low up to the head (il llit
harhors; lor, from the liei,^lit of the land, the wind yeiierally fails or heeonies lijitlling
The distance across the cliannel, helwi-eii I'row
lyl
le distance across tiie ciianne
inihs
^e Islands and I'.arrow Head, is
sciirn''
DY'Ni'' Fil'IY SOl'iNI) extends for more than ') miles in a iiorlh-west dire tiim inii
the interior of Clarence Island. < )ii tl
le west
ilfordiiiu several anchoraiies, mITu li the chart will
ol its eiilrance is a iirouj) of
!;iM(l-.
oilers shelter and seeuiilv from all wimh
Th
il out. One of them, Kli/.;iiiav.
oiloni of hvnelev Sounilwas iiutiv
aniiiied
jNlKIAIi/liK SOIXI), N\l
lie
lonns the cmlioucl
Hire o
f the IJarhara and ('(ickliuni
Clianntds, is very extensive, and is compleiely Idled with islands. Some of tliciii aiiui
larije size, and all are of the most minted and desolate character. The oiling is stiCMcl
lillc, ilSHlS
ll'lll.
with clusters of rocks : of these the f'.ast and West furies are the most remark
as the most impoilani: for ihe passage iiiio the ( 'ockluirn ("liaimel lies hetwecii tl
The former are very near the land of ("ajie Schomherg. 'I'he West i'^iries liear I'mi;
the Tower llock, off Cape iNoir, N. 84" E. :.>.') uiiles; and S. ;iO° W. 11 miles Iroii;
Mount Skyriiia;. The Tussatt lioeks, wliieli arc two in numher, hear from tlic AVi^i
Furies iN. 7.'! E. l,', miles; and in a line luiwi'en the I'.ast and West .i'uries, ;! ii)ilf«
from the latter, and :J from the loiiner, is a rock standing; alone. It hears from Mmim
Skyr
in<
S. I'J W. 11
miles
o avoK
I it, in eiiteriii;^ with a westerly wind, pas
s iic;ii
the West Furies, and steer for the 'J'tissae Uorl
After passing these, there are no dangers that we know i
ii. 111
the entrance
Coekburn Channel. A reference to th(" plan a\ ill show every thing else that iici'
of ill.
noted
Mount Skyriiig is a very promineiit ohjeet. Tt rises to a jieak to the height ef SM
feet: and, being visible for a considerable distance, was useful in connecting the trian-
nidation of the sh
IKirlll eilil of the
liiaiiii;: of ;Moiiii
Tl'f variation is 'J
'I'lie sonlliern t
.111(1 nicks, lliat III
tilt- licsl guide lor
ty ; llicrc are niiii
woiilil alford pcrfi
Tlic land hciea
CO isl of Tierra ih
Id iN eastern cMi
coast, and referci
»(irk.'
Among iMagill's
iiood and well she!
Ml Ircipiciil e\('r»
for sealim; vi'-
lliey iisnaily fre(|ii
North ( 'live was o
I'l K\- iJAKIK
is a very wild anci
Tiissac Hocks, 111!
I i;^\()i'; isiiA
' wliicli a plan was
('JiiiiiiKd.
: r.KOWN'S i'.A
llic north cntraiice,
NOIITIi ANCI
c(niimeiid( '.
• iJeUvceii I Jewell
and slioals, some m
, caaliun is ihercl'mi
j 'J'lie lide, to the i
siitlicient coiise(jiie
I i IIS to impede vesscds
The country lieri
;iiid cypress trees;
ur l.S fe(!t. 'I'hcy a
when seasoned, wor
l]K.l)i<'()KI) i'.A
narrow part of the
and |)erfeclly slielte
kelp, the easleiniiu
narrow channel ; wl
I strait, will be of sei
Here, as well as tl
[ (Lieutciianl ( Irav's
iNUTLANI) r.;
liuown by two sinal
] chorage.
Between IVdfon
I channel is open, am
J inlets not here dese
I examined. They;
; the bottom is foul :
The western coa
J FIELDS HAV
i'l place, unless the w
J iVoin with a view o(
* Views of jinrls of
I vessel Beagle, 18:29 ai
t III the winter of '
I and the crew saved h
ni.IIM' H AMKUKJAN (;OAST VJl.fYT.
CO/
illlllIT, lll(',,|i,.
in :., iiiid ('i,(k-
M I S \H , I 1 1
, mill l')i„iii„|
'• •■liamii'l ii„|.
I ^•IllilC is llillij,
li. ill tills |r;,i:,
Mfxt'ii mill.
i tlOl llltllt' III,,,,
•liij'pi'i.i; I'lim:
111 Slll|l ill. \.
). 'I'll.' I.;i, ,<
icsi) nai'ifiw ilif
irCn'llll I'lir ;i'<
J (alllillllK, v;iiii;
Iff : I'll 111 :i,
If I'liimi III U',
llllf til' link*
If rein-)' S(iiiii„
it is ii «i';niin
' ill.
ipioacli; ;is„i
lO run wiiliM:;.
J and r^ll is;ii'
i'l'vy mimcnii:-,
111 luriiis ;i {|i.|
iiiif nl' llii' i>I-
oC a siiiiiiiinii-
liinilil \\»H.\
ml. Kiiti'fiii;
kf|)t rciiilyiii
If lifail III' lit
inifs liali'iii^.
fail, issriuv-
(lin''liuii in'.
iiu|) 111' \^hm\:
111, Kli/iilJav
111(1 was iiotcv
and ('ocklii;ni
)!' tliriii art III
rrni!i; is strcm'i
arkalilo,!isttdi
lie twccii tlicii:
irifs l)t;in' I'rmi.
] 1 miles (ni.
i(ini llio AVl^
"iirics, ;> mil"
I's ("nun ?!in;!.
vind. pass m
ntianco of il'
0 tliat ncci !•
eiglit of ,1.111"'
;ling the triai;-
;;iilalioii 111 tlif Hliait willi lliat nl' llic outer coa.sl. Il wim seen t'lum Kifld Hay. at ilu;
iiiirlli fiiil oi' llif ISailiaia Clianiif I ; and, fVom its Nuniinil, < 'apt. I''il/,niy nlitairifd a
l,i.;iiiii;; 111' :Miimil Sannifiitii. lis .snniinit is in lal. :>i •2\ 1 1", ami Imi';. 1-2''' T 40".
Tl'f varialiiin is '-'') •
'I'll!' siinllirin fiiltani'f nl' llir I'larliaia ('lianiifl i.i mi vc i y iiniiii (iccniiifd liV i'lamlH
,inil I'lu'ks, lliat III) dii'ffl flianiirl fin lie pfici ivi tl. 'i'lii' rhail iiuiaI Ik: rilfiifd In as
iht! lii'st jiuidf liir its navi'^atimi. i''iir small vf.xsr Ih tlif if is ntiilif r danuf i nnr dilVicnl-
ly ; tliiri' arc nnnn'iiiiis ani'lnna.';!' s that liny nii'.^lil if.ii li uiilmnt liuiililr, and lliat
tvnnlil iili'ind iifilfcl si'ciinly.
Till' land lififaliiinl is aUn dr^'iili'd in ( aplaiii l''ll/aii_\'s pnl<li>liril \irws oj' ilic sea
i'i),i>l III' 'I'ii'iia del l''iif,'^ii, uliif II fiinliiin f m f llf nl \if\vs nl' ilir l.md fnini ('ape i'illai'
III its fasicrn fMniniiN at ('apf |)ifj:ii. Sfiliuii \ 1 1, i imlains ilii- dfscnpiidn nl' ilic*
riiast, and ri'tfrfiiifs aif ilififin niadf li
wnik
I (lie \ lews II
r llif land in ( 'aplain l''il/.iiiy's
;\llll•n^ [Niacin's Islands llicif aic scscral cincs and anrhuia'^is. 'ruin's llailiiiriH
(;on(l and Wfll slif llf ifil, f \fipliim rinm tlif vinli nt sipia
ill' llif lii;;li land, which art;
' so rrL't|iit'iil fVfry wln-ri' anmiiK the Cnvfs ul' Tirira dil I'lif.;!!.
I''()r si-aliim vfssfis, hnwfvi'r. if is innif sal'f and sfcnif than Tiny llarlmr, ilif plait-
llii'V usually ('rfi|nrnl. I'.vrry l hini; thai i'"iii':;i,in I larlmis .ili'md is In la- nhlaiiifd in il.
Norlh Ciivf was nrfiipicd liy ('aplain I'ii/niy in llif l>ta;;lf.
I'MIJ^' ilAlir.Oi!, iHi llif sniilh-fast ^idt■ i.t' llif cfnlral island id iMai^ill's (irnnp,
i> a Vfiy wild anchor i>;r. Kiuin its cnnli^nily In llic i'',asl and West |'"nrics, and llic
Tiissac Kiicks. (Ill which seals aif rmind, il is nun h t'lfipicntfd liy scalimi Vf-scls.f
|;\'.\<)l'; l."<li.\.\|) all'iMils an anchora'^f nn its nmlli-fasl .^Idf ; and llfWfll l!ay, td'
wliiili a plan n\ as niadf, is a .^nnd stiippiiii; plaif, lillicr Inr fiilfiini; ur ijiiiniiiL; ihi-
clianiifl.
, l)i{(>\V'N'S l>.\^' is nini'f f \lf iisIm', IhiI also aliords i;imii| slifllfr in a snial! covi- at
llic niirlli cnlraiicf. in H ralliiiins. sand, aniiinii, sinnc kf Ip.
NOKTII AN('ll()|{.\(il';, t'ur a small vissfl, is hdcrahly scciiic luit mil In he rii-
ciininifndt '.
Uetweeii llewftt l>ay and Niirlh Anch(ira«:f , ihc channel is slrcwcd will many nicks
and slioal.s, stiine td' wliitdi, allliniiiili cnvercd willi kelp, only sliow at haH'-lide. Much
caalidti is theidiMc nccessaiy, and all patidics nl" kelp shiinid ht' eaierully aMiided.
The lidi , In ilie noilhwanl nl iNiiilh \iichniai;f , >vliicli, In the '■niillnvard, was nnt of
siillicieiil ciinsei|iience to inlerlen' with the navigation nl the channels, is so huh h Celt
;is to impede vessels liirniiiL' In windward against it.
The country here has a more aureeahle appearance; lieins; heller wimded with heecdi
and cypress trees; hut the laller aie stunted, and dn i:nt attain a greater hcijihl than l.'i
ur 1^ I'tMit. They are very seiviceahle I'nr hnal-hnok spars, hoat's masts, \'e. The wnud,
when seasnni'd, works up well.
1jKJ)1'"( )U I) li.W is a <;notl anchnrai;e. It is situaled nii tiie nnrth-wfst sitio ofthc
narrow part ol' the (dianmd. Its depth is rroin 'JO to '■' latiioms, f;ooil holdinjj; firoiind,
and perfertly sheltered tVom the prevailim.' wimls. At its entrance are several patches of
kelp, tlie easternninst nC which has iraihiiins on it. A jil. in was made, im Indiiiij tho
narrow (diaiinel ; which, as it is a place likidy to he rreiiiiented hy vessids iiavi^al'iiii the
4 strait, will ht; ol' service.
Here, aswidl asihrouglmut tin; J'arhara Channel, the llnod tide sets to the southward.
(Lieutenant (iravs :MS.)
JUTLAND J>A^', liaviiiij B and ]•'> lathnms over a sand and iinid linltoni, may be
known hy two small islands, jliirs Islands, which lie one mile iN'. N. ]\. rroiii the an-
chorage.
Between Bedford and Nutland IV.iys, and, indeed, as far as the Sha'j; Narrows, the
^ cliannel is open, and may he navi^^ated wiihout inipediment. There are many hays anil
inlets not here th'scrihed or noticed, that may he occupied, hut almost all rciinire to he
, cxaniineih They all tiend far enough into tlie land to ari'n.d <:oo(l shelter, hut in many
tlie hottoin is foul and roidiy, and the water too deep i r am;horau;e.
Tlie western coast, heini; the windward shore, should, of (;oiirse, he prefeiied.
FI10T>I)"S 1) \^' is too expo'.-ed to soiitheily winds to he lecommeiided as a steppinf;
|ilace, unless tlie wind he noitheily. Nutianil Ihiy is a more convenient plait; to start
I'lnin with a view of passing the IS'arntws.
■■ "Views of pnrts of the sea coast of Tierra del Fuejjo, taken on hoard IJis Mnieftv's surveying
vessel Beagle, 18^9 and 1S30.
till tlie winter of 18i!fi-7, the Prince of Sa.xe Coburg, scalcj-, wus wrecked in i'liry llnrbor,
iiul the crew saved by the Deagle's boats.
i
GO*'
HMrnT's AmraicAJi coast tilot.
'I'll ilii> imrlli i»f Niilliinil Mity in Knidrrip Iliiy; iit llio liDttoiii, nr iKirthfin |i;irt(if||,
nri> Nitiiic i;iM)il covrx ; Inn tin* liiiml rinivi'iiit'iii oC tlii-in is iil rlir I'lihli'iriti'Miinii'; h „
I'iillril nil lilt' i'li;iil I )ihiH'r ( 'iivc. It ixliiiil^ id iIm' imhiIi loi iilirinl ;i IiiiIhih', ;iii,| mi,,^,,^
Kiiiiii :ilh-liiir,ii;<' ill |(l t:itliiilllM, NlilViriilill)' ucll sllilliiril ;iimI (||s|;iiit jioiii himJi jainl t„
Iw Irrc (111111 tilt' iiitiiiiiliiiii m|Ii;iIIs, tn- willi-winv.
Hiiniiil DiiiiiiT ("tivf iH liy SoiiihI. ii tlt'i'p iiilff with a nliifiiT nC cimMiilciiiliji. r\ii,||
iiJ llic liiillnm, (i(»m uliii'li hunt' iiiiissi's nl in' ;iii' fdiisiiuitly rMlliiii;, ;iiitl tliiHini- , ,,,
t><'fii|iy tlir wiilt'is <il' llif iiili'l. 'i'lif Willi r is tlft'p, and liif ;m(lii>i;i;;f iitil rtiiMJ, wi,,,,
tlicri' ill'f SI) iiiiiliv lii'llfi' pliit't's. Dt'iiii lliillini' is ;i iiiiisiili'iM' 'r iiilfl Mi'iiiliii;; ill liiK'r.
tlif s:uiii' uliiiitr, wliii'li «<xIi>iiiIm rnnii the liriiil iirSinylli Ihiinor, Id a ninsiili'ialiji. |{,
laiicf in till' siiiitli-wt'st. Il'ttl'a iavtualiic tit plIi it iiiiL;lit airiini ^ntiti anilitira^r. \\,
(litl iini Ciller i(.
Till! iniiy iiavii;altic (•ommiiiiiraJinii llial txists jprlwcfii llif Darliara Clianiii'l mikI'!,,
Sirail, is iImi i alltil llii- Sli.iu Namiws, mi llii- wi'sliiii sidf id' ('aM'liiiMi l.shiiid. Ti'
wiillli id'llit; tipi'iiiiii; is at Itasi mif mile and ilirt'f (|iiai'tt'iM, Inil llif fasii'in pniliniiu.,,
tilled Willi roi'Uv islels and sliiials, iliat (lit> actual Incadlli of the iiidy navi^aldc |i:ii! ,
the null lie I II end. is a In ml 101) \anls; and I lie u iilcsl pail at I lie siiiitli end, scarei'lvl ,
a mile — the whide leiii;ih nl' the passage liciiii; laliier h ss lliaii two miles. It is I'drn.i
tin the west side liy a pKijectini^ pnint ol' liiuli land, that uradnaily trends roniMliiui,
xvestwani; anil nn llic nppnsite side liy three islaiiils, the iiiirtlicniniiisl nl' which is U',;
Island; nil ihf sdiilhcrniiHist is IMniint WnndencU, out! of t;iir slaliiins I'tir tin '|'n.
aiiirnliition.
Uelwceii Wet Island, where the Narrows on the nnitli side cnmmcnce, and iIii'hi.;.
erii slinre. the width is not mure than 100 lo l.Ml yaiils, and pciliaps ::00 yards Ion;,..
'riirnii;;h this the tide sets as much as seven miles an hour; the sides td'llie rdcLsirf
sleep tn; sn, that I a|iprehend nn accident can liap| t n tn a sliip in passing; llicm, m,'.
withsfainlin^ the want nl' rnniii I'nr mantcnvriii^. Al llie sniilli end td' Wet IsIiukI, ||.
stream nllide diviiles, — niie sets In the eastward, rnimd Wet Island, whilst llie |inii(i|
runs tlirnin;h the Shas; NarrnwM. And in liit! .same inaniirr, a part of the sniillitininl,,
which is 'he llnnd, alter passim; A\'el Island, runs to the sntitii-east, round the cnsifrt;
side nC .Mniinl Wnmh ik Ix.
All the space In the eastward nl' Mniiiil W'nndcnciv is sn sirewed with isliuids ,im
rtirUs, that the passage must lie dilliciilt it nut ilan:;crnns.
To avt)id the daiij;er of lieiii!.' thrown out <d' the Narrows, it is only necessary tnkfep
the western shore nn hoard: where there are no indentations, llie lidi! will carry ivi.iil
alom; with safety. \t the north end of the .Narrows, on the west sid(>, is a siielvii)!.' I'lim,
on whicli there are .'') I'alhoms ; — here is an iMldy, Imt as soon as the vessel is once Hi^mn
the Narrows, (within Wet Island,) the mid-chamu I may he Kept. In shootinj,' tliisius?.
af;e, it would he helter to furl the sails and tow throtiiih, ftir if the wind he strtnif;, tjicfj.
tlies ;iiid violent s(|iialls wcndd he very inconvenient, from their ha()liii<;, and layin;'llit
vessel u])on Iter heam ends ; which frr(|iienlly happens, even ihoiiuli evi.-ry sail hi'iiirlf!!,
It will he necessary lo have a couple of hoats out, ready, either lo low, the ship's hue
round, or to j)reveiit her heiiij; thrown hy tlu; tide into the ciiannel to tlie sniiihgi
Wet Island.
Tf anchorai;e ho desirahlo after i)asslnj); the Narrows, there is none tn ho recniniiipnd-
ed, until the coves heiween Smyth llarhor and Cape Kd^eworlh he reached.
Of these l)ii!,hton Cove is preferahle. Tlie aiichora};c is oil" llic sandy beach, in'2i
futhoms.
Warrinjiton Cove, the next to the north, also offers good shelter and anchorage, k
both are exposed tn easterly winds.
The tide in the Shai' Narrows, at full and change, commences to set to the soiitliwari
at 12 o'clock. In the Harhara Channel tho (lood tide was found by Lieutenants Skjricj
and (waves, to set to seaward, or to the southward; as was also the case in Corkiiuni
Channel. Our experience of the tides hereabouts was not sufficient to justifiy our
uiakins; any further observation upon them.
SMVTII IIARUOR is about 4 miles deep, and a half to one mile wide, surroiindfii
by high land, and trendinj; in a westerly direction. The water is deep, excepting in Earle
Cove, on the north side, where vessels might lie, if necessary ; but I should think it aver)
■wild i)laee in bad weather.
The hills at the lu!ad are cai)ped by glaciers that communicate with those at the head
.of Icy Sound. It seems possible that all the mountains between this and Whale Sound
are entirely covered with a coating of Ice.
Half a mile south-cast from Cape Edgeworth is a shoal, so thickly covered with kelp
as to be easily seen in passing or approaching it; — there are not more than two feel of
water over its shoalest part.
Ti) pis-i throii.;
,,i |*,irt (I. ill. ml nil
m'ltlinr be safe im
The iiiirlh-wesi
III ci)iH"'(|iieiice III
lierealiiiiils lli.il li
Hehvci'ii ( 'a|it!
f'roiii iHirtli-west,
till) Hlllitll or NUIIll
Sirail of Mit,<r,ilh'.
Is
The Sedizer Ki^
liy boats at half li
hy Nliinips of tree-
mile from iht; entr:
the casks at low tii
mint', is covered
virealile for repairi
The river was ci
ralltid Segar's Riv
was llif;re .stoppivl i
tilt! water." Jlyroi
Imt gives rather a i
serves.
Voces Jfay, or tl
point of I'ort Kami
from 7 to 10 fatlio
Famine. The Sec
valley.
JJetween this ba
^lee|t for anchorage
fliose siiimnit is iM
111 is 'JbOi feet higl
'abreast of Kli/.abelli
tiiienlal shore. W
ciinmicr it has gent
Winter months its si
to the southward of
being a sharp ridge,
a precipitous descci
hif^liest |)eak near it
There is a low, b
of Cape San Isidro
ills extremity that is
HACiLI-rjJAVT, (
inilits ))oiiUsonu mi
from liO to 12 fat hoi
aatcd with decomix
jliound with Wiiitoi
|ends for about a ca
llagle Bay is not us
pe necessary to steai
nre very violent.
; GUN li^Y, the I
Vessel near the slion
JV. and N. G7° E. -.
Discharge themsolve
ilay,and good holdii
Separates it from Ini
distant more than 1|
^t the bottom towari
only sufficient depth
Either side of which
I good bottom, in fro
nUINT'H AMl'.UICAN COAST PILOT.
To rn<t'< llir')ii';li iho Miirliiir;i ('Itiiniiil, tVoiii tlic iiortli, it woiilil lie iiilvisalilc (o Htn^
i ,1 I'mt (i.illiiiil iiiiiil •\ r.ivitiiilili' i)|i|iiirliiiiiiy ollfis ; tnr, vvilli a sttiitli-wcst wind it would
iieillii'r l)t' >iiiri' iii'i |ii.iiMi<iil(li' In pa-'S iln- Slia;; Nainiws.
'I'lic iiitrlli-wrii wind pri'vaiU iniirf tliaii any ntlirr ni llic W(>slcrn ■ .iilinn d' tlu* Nirait,
'' m cini-ii'iliH'ini' nl' tin- n-ailirs liciidin;: in tliat lirannn. !• Hci'nf. ut In- a ;;(nrral ruin
licitMlMiiits lli.a till! wind riiln r lilnws n|i in down llicin.
IJi'lwci'n Ciipt! I''mwaid and ilic wrsicrn rniianrc ol' llii- strait. I'lf wiinl is ;;rncrally
iVnin iiorlli-wtrsi, allhouKli at sea, or in llic ( ;oi;kl»nrii or ISarliara < diantnds, ii may bt; in
llm sdiilli or .soiitli-woHtrrn hoards.
Strait of Miti^iUli'irnii—Fmin I'orl l'\iiniiir In CitPf. Ffowurd, thr. Nurlh ('ottsi of Clarence
i Isluiul, and from C'tpr. Froward to the Jr.roinr. Clidnnd.
The S«'d|,'('r llivrr, whir.li is (VoiiUmI liy a har lliat dries at low wairr, can he rntcrcd
hy lioats at lialT lidi'. and is naviijaldi! lor :j or I niilrs; alter wliicdi its ImmI is so filli-d up
liVHlninpsol Iri'cs, iliat it is diriitiilt to pcin-trate larllii-r. Tlie water is iVrsli at liall a
iiiile I'roin the »'nti".iin;e, hot to mnnre its Itiiini; perCiMlly H'umI, it wonid \ir lii-ttcr to till
llic easks al low liile. Tlie low land near tin; inontli, as well as tin- Ix-arli ol I'ort Ka-
ninie. is envered with drill liinl)er ol' Iarj{e .si/,e, whieli w(! lonnd very iiHcful, and Mor-
viceal)le Cor repairing our !)nats.
'IMie river w.is rditid hy Sanniento, Ilio de San Juan. In Narl»oroiii,'h's voyaj,'ft it is
culled .Se^jar's River, and liis lioat ii* descnihed to liavc^ ;;iMie np it j'or ') (!) miles; Init
was tlifire stopped Iroiii 150011; tarlher liy " reason of the trunk-tiniiicr ami slioidiness (d'
the water." IJyroii describes tins river, whieii he <'alls the .Scd;;(!r, in >;lowin;; lerins,
hut gives rather a more (Ialt(!ritii5 account of the timl)er i;. wiiii^ on its !iatd;s than it de-
serves.
Vociis Hay, or tln^ i'laya-ilc las-Voecs of Sarmienio, is to the snntliward ol tin- -lontli
point of I'ort Kaniine, when; the .SL'd;;('r Kiver falls itilo tiie sea. .\ ship miy anchor in
I'ntin 7 to 10 lathoins, olV the .Sccoinl lliver, hut the shelter is not as t;ood as in I'ort
Famine. The Second Jlivcr has a slioal entrance, hut extends for some distance uj) the
valley.
Itetween this hay ami (!apeSan Tsidro, ( I'oint ."sliiit-np of Mynin,) ihc^ water is too
deep for anehoraiie, even close to the heach. The capi: is the terminal ion of the ridye,
host! summit is iM(»niit 'J'arn, the mostconspieuoiis mountain of this part of the .tn-it.
ill is 'JhO'i feel hi;;h hy haronn irieal measurement, it is readily ilistiiifruished from
fubreast td' Kli/.aheili Island, wliemie it appears to he the most iirojeciiiiL,' part of the eon-
tiaeiUal shore. When viewed from the norlhwani its shape; is peaked, and during' tho
Slimmer it has generally some patclies of snow a little helow its summit; hut in tho
winter months its sides are covered with snow for tw(» thirds down. From ahreasf and
to the southward of I'ort l''amim', it has rather a saddle sliaped appearance ; its summit
beinj^ a sliarj) ridi;e, t^xtiMidini; very nearly for om; mile, mu'lli-west and south-eaat, with
a precipitous descent on the north-east, and a sKiep slope on the south-west sides. Tho
hifjliest i)eak near its north-east end, is in lat. 5:5 ' -hj' (/', and Ion. 7iP 5h' of,".
There is a low, hut conspicuous rounded hillock covered with trees, at t)ie extromity
of Cape San Isidro ; and a rocky patch extends olf it for 2 cables' length, with a rock at
.fits extremity tlmt is a washat liij^h water. Ii is covered with ktdp.
\ IvMiLI'i J).\.Y, (Valcarcel l>ay of (Jordova,) is about ihri'e (piarters of a mile deep;
Rinl its points one mile apart, bearing N. JO. ami .S. \V. Tlie anchorage! is at tlie head, in
fioin ;.'() to rj fathoms, l^lu^re are two streams of water; but, being very much iin|)reg-
iiiitcd with decomposed vegiitable matter, cannot he preserved long. The woods here
ahound with Winters iJark, of which there are many vi^ry large trees. A small reef ex-
HiMuls for about a cable's lenglli olf tlie .S. W. point of the hay, on wliiidi is an islet.
I^agle IJay is not useful for any but a small vessel, that can he towed in, and then it will
pe necessary to steady her hy warps, to the shore. Tlic squalls, or willi-waws, at times,
are very vioh^nt.
: (iUN 13AV", the next to the westward, although small, affords anchorage for a single
»nssel near the shore, at its S. W. part, in from H to ') fathoms. Its points bear .S. .57''
W. and N. (J7° E. and are distant more than thr(!e-(|uarters of a mile. Two rivulets
discharge themselves into it, from which water is easily procured. The bottom is a stiff
xlay,aiid good holding ground. A round hill of moderate eliivation, and thi(;kly wooded,
Ipparates it from Indian IJay, the points of whicli bear S. G'/' W. andN.()')^K. and are
distant more than 1| mile. From the east point the shore runs due west, curving round
^t the bottom towards an islet covered with trees; between which and the shore there is
^inly sulTicient depth for a boat to pass. A rock about 12 feet high lies to the S. E., on
ither side of which is an anchorage, suflleicntly sheltered from the prevailing winds, over
good bottom, in from 7 to 9 fathoms. Tho north side of the bay is shoal, caused, proba-
COS
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
bly, by llin ;illuvial tloposit from a rivor nciuly in tlio centre. A patch of kelp cxu-'nii^
oil' till- .S. I), point for -J rubles' l(Miij;tli, but iiiis ') fatboiiis over it at the centre.
Neitlicr (imi nor liiilian IJays are noticeil in c;or(b)va".s description of tli(! strait, ;i|.
tlion^h tbey are (piite (Mpiai to any other iu liie nei^bl)oriioo(l, for stopj)irij; pbiees.
JUJb'tJilAtJiO J>AY\ wliich is Cor(b)va"s tJantin JJay, is small, and tiie water vm
<i(!(;p, except nearllie bottom, where anchorage may be obtained in ^ fathoms, clay, j,
is separated from IJournand May, ((Jil l!ay of (Cordova,) by ('ajje Kenianpiable, »{' IW,.
gainville, wliieii is a p-'e'^ipitoiis round-topped ijliiif |)rojeetion, woodcMJ to the snninn'.
At two cai)les' len;^th from the base no bottom was "oiind with -JK fatlioms of line, I,;
at the distance of ott yards the deptli was ■.'() fathoms. JJonrnanii Hay is more snug ;„;
convenient than its noriliern neigliljor, J5oiichage Bay, being sheltered from the sotiit.
erly winds i)y \assaii Island. At the .S-. W. end of a stony lieach at the bdrtoni, i,,
rivulet of L';ood water, off wliich there is good anchorage in s fathoms, stiff mud.
J}t)b\;AlNVllJiK l!AV^ (Cordova's Texada J!ay) b.rms a ba^in, or wet dock, .
wliicii a vessel might careen with i)erfccl security. It is Irom its .-mall size, great ilti:;
of water, and the height of the land, ratlier diflicult (d' access, which renders it aliii«.
always necessary to tow in. On entering, the anchor should be dropped in 1-2 fatlion.,
and the vessel steadied i)y wari)s to the trees, at the sides and i)otlom of the cove, h:,
completely sheltered from all winds, ami an exeidlent place lor a vessel to reiniiiii r.
particularly if the obji-ct be to procure timber, wiiicli grows here to ;i great size, iiinl;.
both HNidily cut down and easily einburkcd. A rivulet at the bottom affords a modeni-
supply of water ; but if more be re(pi;red, tlie neiy,hbm-ing bays will al'ford an abundant,
j.i the |)issage between Nassau Jslan 1 and the main, the least water is 7 fathoms, m.
;i slilf clay bottom, gradually dee|)eiiiiig on eacli side. IJiit the winds being baliliiig, v,
the tides irregular and rippling in many parts, a vessel should not attempt it biit'iii:.
necessity.
NASSAU ISLAND'S south extremity is Sarmiento's Point, Santa ]?rigida.
ST. NUJilOLAS ^>AY^ so named by the Nodales in Ibis, (Imt previously, l)y Si:
inieiito, IJahia de Santa l>rigida y Santa Agueda, and French J'iay by IJe Gennes.i
not only of larger size than any of the bays to the south of ( 'ape San Isidro, but is t!
best anelmiagu that exists between that cape and Cape Frv)ward, as well from its hii;.
more easily entered and left, as from th ■ moderate depth of w.uer, and extent of thn.-
choring ground, lis points bear from each other S. ."jH^ \V. and N. 06° K., aiiilir;
distant two miles. Nearly in the centre is a small islet covered with trees, betwft:
which and the shore is a ])assage with [) fathoms water, stiff clay. The shore is, lio»
ever, fronted for its whole length by a shoal bank, wdiich very much reduces the ;iroi.
rent extent ol' the bay. This hank stretches off to the distance of a (juarter of a:;,i!f
from the siiore, Uw. eilge ot wliich is sleep to, and is generally distinguished by tlieriv
l)le, which, with a moderate breeze, breaks at lialf tide. Tin; i>e;igle anchored i;:''j!
bay, at .'] cai)les' length to the N. h). of the small central islet, in 12 fathoms pt'ili'
bottom ; but the best berth is one quarter to one third of a mile to the S. W. ol'fe
islet, in 10 or 11 filhoms, muddy bottom. Captain Stokes recommends in liis inuiiiL
incoming in, to keep sail upon the ship, in order to shoot into a good berth, on accur
of the liigh laud of Nodales Peak becalming the sails; and to avoid the drift ol'ii'
stream of the river setting the ship over to the easterti side of the bay. I do not, lur.
ever, think that the strcti ■'. of the river can affect ;i ship in any position betwcniir
islet iuid the peak. In ta .ig up an anchorage, much ear(; is necijsstwy to avoid tDiic:
ing the bank. Less than 10 fatlioms is not sal'e, but in that de|)th the security is|K;
feet, and the berth very easy to leave. In passing through the strait this bay isvfp
usefiil to stoi) at, ;is well from the farility of entering and leaving it, as for its proximi:'
to Cape Froward. The islet is in latitiiile 'hV^ 50' n.S", and longitude 71° 3' V-i".
In the middle of tlie bay is l)e (iennes River, (Kio del N'alle (^raiide of Sarinieiilf
which is (da larger size than Sedger Uiver. It is 100 yards across, and apparently ev
tends in a winding direction up the valley for some distance. From its entrance beir;
fronted by a shoal or bink, the form of which must be eor-;tantly shifting, and its beC
strewed with trees that drd't out of the river during tlie winter freshes, it is far froiiilf
ing an (di'^ible place for prociiriii',^ wat( r.
From (ilaseott Point, the southern liead of the bay, a mountainous and high rangt't"
hills runs back for some ilistance. On its summit are several sharp peaks, the mo'
conspicuous of which is Nodales Peak.
From (Ilaseott Point the coast extends in nearly a straight line to Cape Froward,
distance of 7 mile<, tjic bmrl at the lia(dv continuing moiuitainous and woody. A poii
formed by a beach of shingle, covered with trees to within 20 yards of the water's eiljel
and distant nearly
and the entrance (
'anchorage at a qui
a westerly wind ;
•sale. The Beagh
' CAPE FROW
jrises abruptly froir
jas did Lieut. Ur;iv
|iiuiiie(lialely above
|(,'a|)e Prow m-I js ii
Iwind, and vj (loo
ffiill 1111(1 el/.inge, at
The north coast
jtliat of the Bariiar;
,ing (leei)ly into the
^ BOUCiAlNVlL
{is sul'ficiently point
;tlie V^ernal, before
jto the entrance oft
|tance apart, and is
asin, there are .5 (
aiitage, since it is (
ard ; for the nort
revent a vessel sai
INMAN BAY,
OR, are all deep i
To the westward
eparated at the bot
ivide.
In the entrance (
mall. They are (
liles and a half.
KEMPE HARli
yell Sound, is rp
lips. Stokes Cre
liorage ; but from i
CASCADE HA
fore more attainable
ounded by high lai
ille describes, from
arbors from Lyell
m lat. 5:V' 57' Ss', i
HIDDEN IIAR
SAN PEDRO S
t extends, in a sout
ng ort" into the land
Itiiough a small, a
ailed Murray Cove
F RES II WATE
nd indilferent place
BELL BAY, (tl
^Jhorage, Bradley C
istern head of the
ock that forms its n
n, by stern-fasts or
lorthward, has good
0 tow both into and
MOL^\T POND
risible from the east
one of which only i:
Between Cape ln|
slaiids and rocks, an
eparated from each
* It was liore that M. dc I'liunainvillo cut limber for the Iveiicb colony, at llic Falkland Ishmi*'!
To scaling vesstjls it is known by the name of Jack's Harbor.
Byron found the i
lidway between St. i;
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
609
aiiJ distant nearly 3 miles from Cape Froward, is tlie only projection. Between thig
1111(1 the entrance of a rivulet, which waters the only valley that exists in tliis space, an
.unliorage at a quarter of a mile from the shore, in 11 fathoms, mif;htlje ocrupierl during
a westerly wind ; but with the wind more southerly it would be too much exjjosed to be
sHl'e. The Beasjle anchored here at 2 cables' length otV the sandy beach, in 11 fathoms.
CAPE FROWARD, the southern extremity of the continent of South America,
rises abruptly from the sea. At its baso is a small rock, on which Bounainville landed,
as did Lieut. Graves, for the purpose of obtaiuins; a set of bearinia;s. The hill that rises
iiuiuediately above the cape, wa*; called by Sarmiento the Morro of Santa Agueda.
jcape b'row u(i is in lat. 53° 53' 43", long. /I'' 14' 31". The ebb tide sets to the'north-
Iwiiid, and .c Hood to the southward, but with very little strength. It is high water at
[full and cli.mge, at 1 P. M.*
The north coast of Clarence Islat 1 extends from the entrance of Magdalen Sound to
fthat of the ljarl)ara Chaimel, the whole length of which is indcntod by sounds stretch-
ing deeply into the island.
j BOUtiAINVlLLK'S PORT OF BEAUBASIN, (the Bahia Darsena of Cordova,)
lis sufficiently pointed out by the small rocky islet called Periagua, and the mountain of
tlie V^ernal, before described. The outer part of the port decreases in width gradually
40 the entrance of the harbor, which is formed by two projecting points, a very short dis-
Atance apart, and is very shoal, the deepest water being only 2f fathoms. Inside, in .he
asin, there are 5 fathoms. It is a very snug place when once in, but possesses no ad-
aiitage, since it is on the wrong side of the strait for vessels bound through to the west-
ard ; for the northerly or easterly wind, which would be favorable to proceed, would
revent a vessel sailing out of it.
INMAN BAY, HAWKlxNS BAY, STAPLES INLET, AND SHOLL IIAR-
OR, are all deep inlets, surrounded by high precipitous land.
To the westward of Greenough Peninsula, is Lyell Sound. It is 9 miles deep, and is
separated at the bottom from Sholl Harbor by a ridge of hills about one mile and a half
wide.
In the entrance of Lyell Sound, are two conspicuous islands, one of ^vhich is very
mull. They are called Dos Ilerinanas, and bear from Cape Froward S. 46" W., five
liies and a half.
KEMPE HARBOR, one mile and a half within the entrance, on the west side of
yell Sound, is rather dilficult of access, but i)erfectly secure, and would hold six
lips. Stokes Creek, on the same side, more to the southward, also ofl'ers good an-
horage ; but from its being out of the way, can be of no utility.
CASCADE HARBOR, AND MAZ^AREDO BAY, are of less size, and there-
re more attainable, but of the same character with Lyell Sound, viz., deej) water, sur-
ounded by high land. The former is known by the cascade which M. de Bougain-
ille describes, from which It derives its name. On the headland that sejiarates these
arbors from Lyell Sound, is a sugar-loaf hill, the position of which is well determined,
a lat. 53'^ 57' 32", long. 71° 24' 13 '.
HIDDEN II ARBOR has a narrow entrance, but, if required, offers good shelter.
SAN PEDRO SOUND is the most extensive inlet that we know in Clarer ■?" island,
t extends, in a southerly direction, for nearly 13 miles, and has three other in!> i , Lianch-
ng oH'into the land, two to the westward and one to the eastward. There td a good,
Itliough a small, anchorage on its west side, one mile and a half within the entrance,
ailed Murray Cove, and another close to it, which is even more sheltered.
FRESH WATER COV^E, the Caleta de agua dulce of Sarmiento, is a confined
nd indifferent ))laee for a ship.
BELL B.VY, (the Bahia de la Campana of Sarmiento,) has a very convenient an-
horage, Bradley Cove, on itc west side, bearing S. 7'J° W. from Point Taylor, the
astern head of the bay. It will be readily distinguished by a small green round hil-
ock that forms its north head. The anchorage is in 17 fathoms, and the vessel hauls
n, by stern-fasts or a kcdge, into <) fathoms, in perfect security. Pond Bay, to the
ortliward, has good shelter, but it is not of such easy access, for it would be necessary
0 tow both into and out of it.
MOUNT POND, a peaked hill over the harbor, is a conspicuous mountain, and is
isible from the eastward as soon as it opens round Cape Froward. It has two summits,
ne of which only is visible from the eastward.
Between Cape Inglefield and Point Elvira, is St. Sitnon's Bay. It is studded with
slaiids and rocks, and at the bottom has two communications with the Barbara Channel,
eparated from each other by Burgess Island, the easternmost of which, called Tom's
Falldund Isliiiil-'ijS. * l^yo" fo"»d the depth of water, at less than a cable's length from the point, 40 fathoms,
lidway between St. Nicholas Buy und Port San Antonio, we had no bottom widi 256 fathoms.
77
610
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Narrows, is the most extensive ; but this, from the irregulnrity and forre of the lidpj,
is not to be prrforri'd to the more direct one of the Shag Narrows, on the western sl'le
of Cayetnno Ishind ; for there is no good anchorage iu St. .Miclraei's Channel, >ilij|.||
leads to it, and it is bounded by a steep and precipitous coast. The Gonsale/ Narmws
on the west side of Burgess Island, is not more than .'50 yards across, and from the force
of the tide and the fail of the rapid, would be dangerous even for a boat to puss.
The only good anchorage in St. Simon's Bay is Millar's Cove. It is about 3 miles
within Point Elvira, and has three rocky islets off its entrance. A conspicuous uidtiut
forms the summit of the eastern hea<l. The anchorage is in 5 fathoms, a good bottum
and entirely sheltered. Wood and water are plentiful.
Immediately round the east head of Millar's Cove, is Port Langara. It is rniLc
more than a mile long, and two thirds of a mile wide, and trends in a W. N. W. clin,-.
tion. The water is deep, excepting at the head, and in a cove on the north shore, in
either of which there is good anchorage. At the former the depth is 8 fathoms, arKlin
the cove, 5 fathoms. On the eastern side of the bay, are Shipton and Mellersli ('(n,^
Both are surrounded by liigh land, and the water being very deep, neither of thrniaf.
ford anchorage. 0!f the head that divides them, are the Castro Islands. On the iiinh
side of the largest is a very convenient cove, with a moderate depth of water. The ( ,|,.
tellano Islands consist of five principal c ries. Tl:ey are situated in the centre of il;f
bay, and have no anchorage among them.
The coast from (>a|)e Froward to Jerome Channel, a distance of 40 miles, is vny
slightly indented. The anchorages, therefore", are few in number, but they are (ifeusn'r
access, and altogether more convenient than those of the southern shore. Takin!;ili,.i„
in succession, Snug Bay, 5 miles N. W. of Ca[)e Froward, is a slight indentation of th'
coast at the embouchure of a small rivulet, the deposits from which have thrown upj
bank near the shore, on which anchorage may be had in 8 and 9 fathoms. Tiic hK
anchorage is half a mile to the K. S. E. of the island, in 9 fathoms, black sand, theriv;,
let mouth bearing N N. W. three quarters of a mile. It is much exposed, beini>opf
fromW. S. W. by S., to S. E.^
Byrrn, who anchored in it, describes it as being fit for his purpose. It is certain!) a
convcnieui siojjijing place in fine weather.
WOOD'S BAY, situated under the lee of Cajjc Holland, is a convenient stoppin;
place for ships, but only small vessels should anchor inside the cove. The ancliorj^r
is very good to the eastward of the river's mouth, at half a mile from the shore, ini;
and 13 fathoms water. Small vessels may enter the cove, by luffing rouiul tlielclj;
patches that extend olf the south point of the bay, on which there are ^i fathoms.
Entering Wood's Bay, steer for the gap or low land behind the cape ; and asyounctr
the south point, keej) midway between it and the river's mouth ; or for a leadini;in;irli,
keep a hillock, or conspicuous clump of trees at the bottom of the bay, in a line ivitlis
remarkable peak, one or two miles behind, bearing, by compass, N. 52° W. Ancliorii)
17 fathoms, immediately that you are in a line between the two points. Small vi^ek
may go farther, into 10 fathoms. The west side of tlie cove may be approaclicd priiii
near, and the depth will not be less than 5 fathoms, excepting upon the two ratliuiii>
patch that stretches off the east point, the extent of which is sufficiently shown bytli'
kelp; but on the eastern side the bank shoals suddenly, and umst be avoided, for the r;
are 115 fathoms close to its edge, upon which there are not more than two f ect watfi
The south luiint of Woods' Bay is in lat. .5:3° 48' 33", and long. 71° 35' 41 ".
CAPE HOLLAND is a bold, high, and, although slightly projecting, yet a viivcoir
spicuous headland. It is precipitous, and descends to the sea in steps, pleutifull)' ci-
vered with shrubs. It is 14 miles to the westward of Cape Froward.
Near (Jape Coventry, and in Andrews Bay, anchorage may be had near the shore, :
the weather ijc line. To the westward of the former, at half a mile from the shore, tlici;
are 13 fathoms.
CORDF.S BAY, four miles to the eastward of Cape Gallnnt, may be known by ilie
small bright green islet, (Muscle Island,) that lies in the entrance; also by a tliree-
peaked mountain, about l,r)(K) or 2,000 feet high, standing detached from the surround-
ing hills, at tlie bottom of the bay. The western entrance, whicli lies between Wtri
Point and the reef off Muscle Island, is two thirds of a mile wide. Within it is a l);iv !
mil« deep, but much contracted by shoals covered with kelp. Between ihein, lioHevcr,
the anchorage is very good and well sheltered. The bottom is of sand, and the deptliJ
and 7 fathoms. At the extremity of the bay is a large lagoon. Port San Miguel, trend-
ing in a north-east direction for two miles, and two thirds of a mile across. The entrance
* SnufC Buy. — At Byron's Anchorage in Snug Bay, " Cape Froward bore E. i S. h miles; the
islet in the bay W. by S. half a niilo ; the river's mouth N. W. I)y W. three quarters of a mi!t'|
Shoaled suddenly from 17 to 9 falhoma, but had no ground until near the island."
bearing N. iP E., a
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Gil
B of the tides,
c western siHe
haniiel, wh,,!,
.sale/, Narnivv.
Croni the force
) pass,
about 3 niiifs
)ieiu)us UKiiiijt
good bottum,
It is riit'f
N. W. direct
orth shore, m
iithoin.s, and in
ellersh r'(,v,s.
er nl" them at-
On the ii'in'i
er. The(,..
3 centre of the
) niiles, isvrry
ey are of^m
Takint; thnu
entatiotiofthf
■e thrown upi
ins. Tlie hf.;
sand, the rivt-
;ed, being ope
t is certainly a
nient stoppiii;
rhe anelior.ui'
18 shore, in i;
round tlieiifii;
fathoms,
nd as yntuK'ir
leadint;in;irk,
n a line h itli a
I. Anciioriii
Small ve»d>
iruacheii pre;!)
two latliuiiii
f shown by ili-
ided, for ther;
two feet wiitfi.
11 '.
y et a very cod-
pjentifully co-
ar the shoio, :
he shore, tlirr:
known by the
Iso by a tiiree-
I tiie surround-
jctwcen We-i
lin it is a b;iy !
hem, however,
nd tliedcptlii
lAJiguel, trend-
The entr;uice
S. 5 miles ; ttic
irters of a m'-'^'
is both narrow and shoal, and not safe for a vessel drawing more than G feet. Inside tho
lagoon the dei)tii is from 3 to 13 fathoms. With Forteseuc 15ay and i'ort (iailant so
near, the probability is that it will never be much used ; hut in turninii; to the westward
it would be belter to anchor here than lose f^round by veturninii; to Woods' I^ay. By
entering the western channel and steering clear of the kelp, a safe and coniuiodious an-
chorage may easily be reached.
FORTE SCUE BAY is the first best anchorage to the westward of St. Nicholas Bay.
It is spacious, well sheltered, easy of access, and of moderate depth. The best berth i.s
to the south-east of the small islet, outside of Wigwam Point, in 7 or 8 fathoms. Hav-
ing the entrance of Port (Jallant open, small vessels may sail into the port, but the chan-
nel is rather narrow. The banks on the western side, oli' Wigwam Point, are distin-
guished by the kel|).
When within, the shelter is perfect ; but Fortescue Bay is quite sufficiently shel-
tereil, and much more convenient to leave. In this part of the strait, as the channel be-
comes narrowed by the islands, the tides are much felt. There are two good anchor-
afijes before reaching the entrance of the Gerome Channel, namely, Elizabeth Bay and
York Roads, off Batcheior's River. They are, however, only fit for stopping places.
There are no anchorages among the islands that can be recommended, excei)ting in the
strait that separates the group of Charles' Islands, in which there is security and a con-
venient depth. AVhen the wind blows frcvsh there is a hollow sea between Charles'
Islands and the north shore, which very much impedes shi|)s beating to the westward.
At a short distance to the E. S. E. of Passage Point, is a shoal, with 2 fathoms upon
it. Elizabeth Bay has a sandy beach, and a rivulet emptying itself into it. Cordova
reconiinends the best anchorage to be in 15 fathoms. Passage Point bearing E. S. E.,
distant half a mile, about 3 cables' length from the river, and to the N. W. of a bank on
which there is much kelp.*
Captain Fitz. Roy descrii)es the anchorage of York Roads, or Batcheior's Bay, to be
good and convenient : " Haifa mile oft", a woody point, (just to the westward of the river,)
bearing N. 6^ E., and the mouth of the river N. E. three quarters of a mile, is a good
berth, because there is plenty of room to weigh from and space to drive, should the an-
chor drag. The bottom is good in 10 or 12 fathoms, but not in a less depth. The
shore is aflat shingle beach for two miles, the only one in this part of the strait." Cor-
dova recommends the following as the best anchorage, at half a mile from the beach, the
river bearing N. 5^ E., and the west pointof the bay N. -27° W.
The set and change of the tide here are very uncertain, on account of tho meeting of
the Jerome Channel tides with these of the strait, which occasions many ri])plings ; and
it would require a better experience than we possess, to give a correct ex|)lanation. Cap-
tain Fit/. Roy says, that "the tide along shore, near Batchelor River, changed an hour
later than in the otifing. At Batcheior's Bay, by the beach, during the first half or one
third of the tide that ran to the south-east, the water fell ; and during the latter half or
two thirds, it rose. In the otfing it ran very strong." The establishment of the tide, at
the entrance of the river, by an observation made by Captain Fitz Roy, with the moon
eight days old, would be, at full and change, at Ih. 4fjm. By an observation made by
Captain Stokes, two years previous, it was found to be 2h. 13m. The tide at the an-
chorage ran three knots.
BATCHELOR RIVER is accessible to boats only ; and in going into or out of its
entrance, they must be very careful to follow exactly the course of the stream, for a bar
lies outside. Large boats cannot enter at half tide. f
To the following islands in the centre of the strait, that fonn the south Umit of Eng-
lish Reach, I have restored the names that were originally given by Sir John Nar-
borough.
SECllETARY WREN'S ISL\ND is a small rocky islet, rising abruptly on all
sides, and forming two summits. Near it are some rocks, and to the S. E. is a group of
small rocks; and at a mile to the E. S. E. are two rocks above water, called Canoas.
The islet has no name on Cordova's Chart.
CHARLES ISLANDS, besides some smaller islets, consist of three principal isl-
ands; and in the centre there is a very good port, having good anchorage within the
* Mr. Simpson describes the Dolphin's nnchornge here in 10 fathoms. Rupert's Island bore
S. by E. 2 or 3 miles ; Passage Point S. E. by S. tlireo (juarters of n inilc ; the west part of the bay
W. by N. 2 miles, and a reef of rocks about a cable's leiif;lli from the shore N. W. by W. a quarter
of a mile. The reef is quite covered at hisb water. Here tho flood set to the eastward, and
flowed, at full and change, until 12 o'clock.
t " At three quarters of a mile to the eastward of Batchelor River, is a shoal which has not more
than 6 foot upon it at low water, and M fn.;t at hiRli water. It is about half u mile from the shore,
tad shows itself by the weeds upon it."— [Simpson's Journal.)
612
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
islets, in 13 fi\thoms. It has an outlet to the N. W., and one to the S. W., filso a nnr-
row point communicates with the strait to the S. E.
Oi<()osite to Cape (4allanl, on the eastern island, near its N. W. end, la a coiis]»irii,,,|u
white rock, called Willis' Mark. Next to (he westward, in succession, are M()iijnoiii(,
and James Islands, (called by Cordova Isia de los Infantes,) then Cordova Tslpt, a,,,)
Rupert's Island, and to the westward of these the island of Carlos III., so named by (;„f.
dova. The last is separated from Ulloa Peninsula by St. David's Sound, which is nmi.
gable throuf^hout.
To the northward of Whale Point the eastern extremity of Carlos III. Island, is ^
cove witii an anchora'^e, in 15 fathoms, close to the shore, on a steep bank, but l,i|
ground. The IJea^le and Adelaide both dragged off the bank, from the violence of i|,(.
squalls off the high land. From the narth point of the cove to Rupert's Island. Isj
rocky ledge, (Lucky Ledge.) ovnr which the tide sets with cons-derable strength, 'flu
Beagle, having dragged her anchor in the cove, was brought up by its hooking a rmi
on the ledge, but it was found broken on being hove uj). Whilst there, the tide set
past her in a north and south direction, at the rate of three knots an hour.
To the westward of Cape Middleton, of Narborough, is Muscle ]5ay. having docpw,.
ter, and of uninviting character. Cordova describes it to be a mile wide, with unfiHii
soxindings, from 12 to 40 fathoms, stones. This bay is not to be recommended, altliun i,
it appears to bo well sheltered. There is an anchorage in from 16 to 30 fatlioms :,,
Ponet Bay, of Cordova, close to Carlos 111. Island. It lies underthe S. E. side ot sdnip
islands opposite to Batchelor River. At a short mile to the eastward of Cape CrosMiiie,
the N. W. end of Carlos III. Island, is Tilly Bay. but it has nothing to recommmd k,
particularly when the much better anchorage off Batchelor River is so close at hnnd
CHOISEUL BA\', AND NASH HARBOR, on the Fucgian Coast, are not miho
least inviting; the former. Captain Fitz Roy describes to be a large, deceiving, limiior.
like bay, full of islets and patches of kelp, under which, of course, there are rocks. Be-
tween the islets, the water is deep and unfit for anchorage.
NASH HARBOR is equally unserviceable.
WHALE SOUND, also on the Fuegian shore, at the back of Ulloa Peninsula, i<i
large inlet, trending eight miles into the land, and terminating in a valley bounded on nA
side by high mountains. There is anchorage only in one place, the west side of Lm
Harbor; and, although this harbor appears large, the anchorage is small, and close to
the shore.
ST. DAVID'S SOUND separates Carlos III. Island from Ulloa Peninsula. At its
north end the water is deep, but where it begins to narrow, there are soundings itiit.on
which anchorage might be found, if there was a necessity ; but I cannot imagine siiclian
occa.siou will ever happen : — should it, the chart will be a sufficient guide.
Strait of Magalhaens — Jerome Cfianncl — Olway and Shyring Waters, Croohi mi
Long Reaches
THE JEROME CHANNEL was only slightly examined by Cordova's officers; ik
their object being merely to confirm or disprove Sarmiento's statement of the insuhiniv
of the land between it and the Gulf of Xaultegua, now called Croker Peninsuln, *ili!
Lago de la Botella was alone explored by them. The continuation of the Jerome, mm-
in the old charts Indian Sound, having never been traced ; and, therefore, being an (ibjiv:
of great interest, it was investigated by Catitain Fitz Roy as carefully as could be doii*
in the middle of winter in an open boat. The period of his absence from the ship, linw-
ever, 32 days, not being sufficient to complete the service, the westerp shores of the Sky-
ring Water were not visited ; and as a further examination of it will, probably, beoneil
the ol)iccts of the voyage he is now preparing for, a brief description will be sufficient.
THE JEROME CHANNEL is narrow, but throughout, free from danger. Tk
western shore is high and steep, and covered with trees: the eastern shore is lower ami
less wooded. In mid-channel, near its western end, are two islets which have no phre
in the Sjjaiiish Chart; utde.ss (lie Tertin Isles be intended to re|)rcsent them; — if sotliej
are badly placed. The Spanish Chart makes the channel 6 miles too long.
On the west side of the Jerome are 2 coves. Wood Cove and Seal Cove, that maybe
used with advantage by small vessels. On the eastern shore, the bights. Three Islnmi Bay
(Cordova's Real Cove,) and Coronilla Cove, appeared to be commodious. ArauzBayis
open and exposed to the N. W.
Where the Lago de la Botella joins the Jerome, the latter winds round the noith-ea^i
On its eastern side, behind the False Corona Isles, is Cutter Cove, affording aiichi)niit
for a small vessel ; a plan was made of it. Opposite is Nunez Creek, with deep «;itfi-
* Sarmiflnto describes it to be an island by the Indian name of Cayrayxayiisgua.
to the N. W. f(
'luce Jslmiii'liay
\
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT. GI3 ^"^
Ahreast of the Corona Isles, one of which, the Sugar Loaf, is about 200 feet high, is
Siilivaii Sound, penetrating for five miles into the land on the western side of the channel ;
and at a league to the n^rihward of the .Sugar Loaf, is another opening to l!ie westward ;
oil the north shore of which is Bending Cove; which, with Cutter Cove, are the only
stopping places between Cape Forty-Five and Child's Uluti'.
Between Child's Bluff and Point Stokes, the Otway water commences. On the west
shore it affords several commodious anchorages. Off Point V^illiers, lat. fi3" 9', at a
(juarterof a mile from the shore, there arc from 10 to 30 fathoms; and the depth decrea-
ses in advancin;: more northerly. There is anchorage all across the north-east part of
tlie water, in from 5 to 20 fathoms, the bottom of sandy mud.
Ingleficid and Vivian Islands, at the west end of the water, are low, but tliickly wood-
ed. An isthmus, 6 to 10 miles across, separates the Otway Water from llie Strait near
Eli/.iibetli Island. From an elevated station on the north side of Fit/. Roy Channel, this
narrow neck appeared to be low and much occupied by lagoons. The south sliore of
Otway Water is formed by liigh land, with three deep ojienings that were not examined.
J.runswick Peninsula, a mass of high mountainous land, is the most southern extremity
of the Continent.
In lat. [y-i^ 40', and long. 71'° W. is the east entrance of Fitz Roy Channel; it forms
a comniuiiication between the Otway and the Skyriiig Waters, and lakes a winding course
to the N. W. for 11 miles, which is easily navigated. A strong tide running during the
neaps at the rate of five or six miles an hour in the entrance, and two or three in other
parts, sets through it, six hours each way. The rise and fall, however, were scarcely
distinguishable.
SKYRING WATER, is 10 leagues long from east to west. Its shores are low. At
the western extremity two openings were observed to wind under a high castellated-
topped mountain, (Dynevor Castle,) which were supposed by Captain Fitz Roy to com-
municate with some of the sounds of the western coast. Through Euston Opening, the
southern one, no land was visible in the distance; but, on a subse(|uent examination of
the termination of the Ancon sin Salida of Sarmiento, by Captain Skyring, no commu-
nication was detected.
Of the TIDES in the JEROME and INTERIOR \VATERS.— The tide was found
to set through the Jerome Channel with great regularity, six hours each way. The
Spanish account, however, says, "The current is always in the direction of the channel,
but rarely sets to the N. W., particularly in mi<I-channel and the western shore ; on the
opposite side, however, the tide sets six hours each way, to the N W. and S. E."
The following observations were made by Captain Fitz Roy for the time of high wa-
ter at full and change, at various parts of the Jerome and its interior waters, viz : in the
entrance of the Jerome, near Arauz Bay, at 1 o'clock ; near Bending Cove, at 3 o'clock ;
at Cutter Cove, at 4 o'clock; on the south shore of Fanny Bay, at Gidley Island, as
also at Martin Point, at 5 o'clock; at Inglefield Island at 4 o'clock; and at the same
hour at the eastern entrance of Fitz Roy Channel; but at the western end of it at Ih.
15m. The variation of the compass was found to be, at tlie
Point of Islets 23° 58'
Donkin Cove 23° 40'
Wigwam Cove 23° 34'
Inglefield Island 23" 56'
Point Martin 23° 58'
The mean of which will be 23° 49'.
The portion of the strait comprised between the western extremity of Ulloa Peninsula
and the entrance of the .Jerome is called Crooked Reach. In the navigation of this part
Wallis and Carteret suffered extreme anxiety ; and no one that has read their journals
would willingly run the risk of anchoring in any port or bay on its southern shore. The
chart will show several inlets deep enough to induce any navigator to trust to them ; and,
probably, for small vessels, many sheltered nooks might be found, but they have all very
deep water, and when the wind blows strong dow- o Long Reach, they a're exposed to
a heavy sea and furious wind. The anchorage of Lorja Bay, within the Ortiz Islands, (the
Island Bay of Byron,) is so much preferable, that it alone is to be recommended. IBoth
Captain Stokes and Captain Fitz Roy speak highly of it in their journals : it is snug and
well sheltered, and tolerably easy of access, but in a gale, like its neighbors, the anchor-
age is much incommoded by the willi-waws, which "drive the ship from one side to the
other, as if she were alight chip upon the water." Captain Fitz Roy says, "let me
recommend Borja Bay as an excellent, although small, anchorage: wood and water are
plentiful ; under the coarse upper sand is a stiff clay, like pipe clay. Avoid the islet off
its west side; as you go in or out."
As this is an anchorage that may be much used. Captain Stokes' account of it is also
subjoined :
11
ii
^
614
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
" BORJA BAY is situated on tlie northern shore of Crooiied Roach, two tnilpsto
the eastward of Cape Quod. Its position is pointed out as well by the islet o(f its west
point, as by its situation with re...pect to VA Morrion, the hchnet-shaped |)oint |)ievi(iihlv
called by the Enj^lisli, St. David's lloail. ^J'he entrance to the bay is to the fastwiinl lif
the largest islet, and presents no dari^c'rs; all the islets and slioi°s of tlm 1 ;iy iniiv l,i
approached to half a cable's length e en to the edge of the kelj). The only (liCfKn;,.
that impedes gettii. g into the bay, arises from the ballling winds and violent gusts that u,:
casionally come off the Miountain-^ and down the deep ravines which form the snirotinil
in;^ coast, and the u.most vigilance must '■<« exercised in beating in under sail to gu;ip|
against their elfects. The aneliorag;; is iJorlVcriy sheltered from the prevj'.iling winds. i|n.
westerly anil soutli-westerly gales, and is o|ien oidy to south-easterly winds, wliich vrrv
rarely blow here, and still more rarely with violence ; and as the holding ground is Pm,)
(small stones and sand) and the depth of water moderate (14 to If) fathoms) and iim
fetch of sea prevented by the narrowness of the strait in this j)art. the greatest hr(;ii||-i
being only three miles, it may be oronounced a very good and secure harbor. Tiic hp,t
plan is to anchor with the bower, and ste. idled to the shore by a hawser or a ke'ii/e. ,\o
surf or swell obstructs landing any wheie : good water anc, plenty of wood are easy t(i Ir
embarked: the trees, a species of beech, aie of a considerable si/.e. The shores nf,
rocky, and the beadi plentifully stocked — as indeed arc all parts of the strait to the insi.
ward — with Itarberries and wild celery.
Byron anchored in Borja Uay, as did also Carteret, in the Swallow, The former give?
a plan of it, and calls it Island Bay. He attempted to anchor in it, but was preTeniedlv
the strength of the tide.
Captain Stokes describes the Morrion, or St. David's Head, to be a lofty granitic rock,
of which the outer face is perpendicular and bare, and of a light grey color, distiii^ubli-
able from a consideiable distance both from the east and the north-west, and forniiii;;ar,
excellent leading mark to assure the navigator of his position.
Narborough thus describes Cape Quod : " It is a steep up cape, of a rocky {ricvbl
face, and of a gooi" height before one comes to it : it shows like a great building olnciis
tie : it points olf with a race from the other uiountains, so nuich into the channel of i||f
streight, that it makes shutling in against the south land, and maketh an elbow in iLc
Btreight."'*
Abreast of Capo Quod, captain Stokes tried and found the current settinjr 'o the cast-
ward at I75 knot an hour.
Between Borja Bay and Cape Quod are two coves, too small to be of any use wlien
Borja Bay is so much superior.
Snowy Sound, a deep inlet, unimportant to the navigator, and not worth any pc^nj
while to enter, excepting for anchorage in a cove at about a mile, ami in another at two
miles, within its western head. It extends in lor 10 miles and terminates in two inliis,
surrounded by high, perpendicular, black rncks. Snowy Sound w^s formeily consiwr-
ed to be a channel communicating with Whale Sound, and insulating Ulloa Peninsula;
but this is disproved by captain Fitz Roy's careful examination of it.
The following descriptions of the bays between Cape Quod and Cape Notch, are
taken principally from the appendix to Cordova's Voyage to the Strait.
BARCELO BAY, the fust to the west of Cape Quod, seems to be large and incom-
modious, and strewed with small islets.
OSORNO BAY follows, and, according to Cordova, has very deep water all over;
there being 40 fathoms within a cable's length of the beach, excepting on the west side,
"»vhere there is a rocky 'edge with from 10 to 20 fathoms.
Next, to the westward, is LANCjARA BA^. It trends in for about a mile to thnnnrtl-
■east, and has 10 to IJ fathoms, stony bottom. It is more sheltered than thctwofoiiner
bays.
POSADAS BAY is, most probably, Wallis' Lion Cove. Its western point is foriiic;
by a high, rounded, and precipitous headland, resembling, in captain Wallis' i(lp;i.i
lion's head ; and although Cordova could not discover the likeness, yet it is sufficientl)
descriptive to point out the hay, were the anchorage worth occupying, which it isiin.
Wallis describes it to have deep water close to the shore; his ship was anchored inW
fathoms.
ARCE BAY. — Cordova describes it to have anchorage in from 6 to 17 fathoms, stone?.
It divides at the bottom into two arms, each being half a mile deep. The outer points
bear from each other W. N. W. and E. S. E. half a mile across.
FLORES BAY is, probably, Wallis' Good Luck Bay, Cordova describes it to be
* At not a league to the eastward of Cape Quod is a rock which has not more than 9 feet upon
it, but shows itself by the weed? growing upon it ; it is a good distance from the north shore, and j
is in the fair way working to the westward round the Cape.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
CIS
e and inconi-
very small ;<ri<l exposed, with from 6 to 20 fatlioms, stones ;ind gnivcl. At the bottom
is ;[riviilft of very gonci water.
VlLLi'lNA ('<'VK lias from 15 to 'JO f;itliotiis, and is very open and exposed.
Then follows (iUlKlOK. liAV. — It is large, and ()|)en to the south, and prohably
alVordspood anchorage in coves. Cordova descriht-s it to extend for more than a league
to the north, the mouth being 2 miles wide. Its west |)oint is ( -ajie Noteh, which will
s(!rve to reeogni/.c it. Near the entranee is an island and several rocks; and within
them, on the west side, are 2 coves, with from ]f) to .'50 fathoms, stones. ISeyond them
is tlip port, wiiich has a narrow entrance. A river falls from a considerable height into
it, and by the rapidity of the current has formed a channel of ooze in the direction of
the entrance, in whicii there is good anchorage in from 20 to 2() fathoms: on either side
of the channel the bottom is stony. The port is too difficult to reach to make it an ob-
ject of any value. Should, however, a strong gale from south or south-west oblige a
ship to run in, she should avoid passing too near the west side of the narrow ; for a reef
extends off it for nearly a cable's length. There is also a bank outside the narrow, but
it is pointed nut by kelp.
From the above description of the bays between CapesQuod and Notch, occupying a
space of 12^^ miles, and from the view we had of them in passing, none seem to be con-
venient, or very safe. 'J'he b(!st port for ;dieltcr for a ship, is .Swallow Harbor, on the
opposite shore': but small vessels may fmd many places, that a ship dare not aj)proach,
where every convenience may be had ; for if the water be too deej) for anchorage, they
may be secured to the shore at the bottom of the coves, where neither the swell nor the
winil can rei'ch thetu.
SWALLOW HARBOR is 1{ mile to tlie westward of Snowy Sound. It is a better
anchorage forsliips than any in the neigliiiorhood. The plan of it is a suHicient guide,
the dangers being well buoyed and pointed out by kelp. It was first used bv captain
Ciirterel in the Swallow ; and ('ordova gives a short description of it.
The anchorage is under the east side of the island which separates the harbor fro. .4 Cor-
dova's Condesa Bay, and which forms its west side. Wallis describes the harbor to be
" sheltered from all winds, and excellent in every respect. There are two channels into
it which are both narrow, but not dangerous, as the rocks are easily discovered by the
weeds that grow upon them." Cordova's account of it runs thus — " To the westward
of Snowy Sound are two bays formed in a bight by an island. The eastern, Swallow
Harbor, has in its mouth three islands and a rock; besides strewed with kelp, which
serves to point otit the dangers in entering. Within, it is very v/ell sludtered from all
winds. The depth is from 40 to 1<> fathoms, stones, and in some parts oo/.e. This bay is
to the south of Ca|)e Notch; and to recogni/.e it, there is a cascade falling down the
centre of a nu)untain at the bottom of the port, to the westward of which are 2 higher
mountains; the sunmiit of tlie eastern being peaked, and the western one rounded.
The bay, to the westward of the island, is Condesa Bay. It is full of islets and rocks,
and the channel behind the island, communicating with Swallow Bay, is very narrow."
At about a cable's length otf the west point of the entrance of .Swallow Harbor, cap-
tain Fit/, Roy saw a rock just awash. This danger should be carefully avioided.
STEWART'S BAY is less than a league from Swallow Bay. Of this place Capt.
Stokes makes the following remarks : — " Stewart's Bay alforded us a quiet resting place
for the night, but it is by no means to be recommended as an anchorage; for though it
is sulTiciently sheltered from wind and sea, yet the rocks, in different parts of it, render
the passage in or out very hazardous: every danger in it is pointed out by rock weed,
but it is so nuich straitened as to require the utmost vigihince. A plan of it was made
and connected with the coast by bearings and angles to Cape Notch, and to other fixed
points. The description of the place by Cordova cannot be improved."
The account in Cordova is as follows : —
" Stewart Bay, (La Bahia de Stuardo,) follows Condesa Bay. It has an island besides
several patches of kelp, an indication of the many rocks that exist. Even the best chan-
nel is narrow and tortuous; the depth from 12 to 16 fathoms, stones. At the bottom is
an islet, forming two harrow channels leading into a port or basin, 2 cables' length wide :
the eastern channel is the deeper and has 13 to 20 fathoms. Inside the basin, and on the
east side, the depth is G and !) fathoms, mud. A reef extends for half a cable's length
to the westward of the south end of the islet. It would be difficult and dangerous to
enter this small basin."
Then follows a deep and extensive channel, of which we know only that it extends to
the south for 5 or 6 miles, and perhaps, is very similar, in its termination, to Snowy
Sound. It is Sarmiento's Snowy Channel. (Ensenadade Mucha Nieve.)
At this part of the strait, the breadth is about 2i miles ; but, at Cape Qiu)d it scarcely
exceeds Ij mile. The shores are certainly much less verdant than to the eastward of
Cape (^uod ; but not so dismal as Cordova's account would make them appear to be ;
G16
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
for, In? says : "As soon as Cape Qiiod is passed, the strait assumes the most horrible aiv
pciirimcc, (I'oii cl asptK-to inns liorriblc,) having hifrli mountains on ho'ii sidrs, Hrpjirniej
by raviui's entirely destitute of trees, (V;>in the inid-hei^ht upwards." To us it appcnrfil
that the liills were <'<'rtaiidy much more l ire of vej^etation above, but l)eiow were nn|i|p.
fieient ; tlie trees and siiriibs, iiowever, are of small size. Korthe purposes of fuel abim.
dance of wood is to !)e obtained. Jn the winter months the hills are covered with stioH,
JVoni the summit to the base; but in the month of April, when the Adventure passed
through, no siu)vv was visible about then.
Captain Stokes remarks, that tlu? mountains in this part, (Cape Notch,) spire up in',
peaks of yreat height, coiuiected by siiij;ularly sharp saw-liki; ridges, a: . are of vrirfi,.
tion as if they hail been ri'iiilcrcd so by the hand of art. About their bases there a,,
geru'rally some green [latches of jutmle. but upontlu- whole notiiiug can be more sterile
and repulsive than this |)ortion of the strait. TliiH account of raptaiti ."^lokes a^;ri'es \ii||
Cordova's; but upon examining the coves, we found iheui so thickly wooded with slini!«
and jtuigle, and small trees, that it was diihcult to penetrate beyond a few yards froinilit
beach.
C!APE N()T('ll is a projecMing point of grey colored rock, about ()5fl feet high, til-
ing a dee|i cleft in its sumnut. It is a cons|)icuons luMilland, and cantH)t be mistakm.
The next place- to the westward of ('ape Notch, tli;,t can be rec()Miniended for an i,.
diorage, is Playa I'arda C'ove, which is well sheltered, and, for chain cables, has a ;, |
bottom, being of sandy nuid, strewed with stones; it is half a mile wide at tin? cnlraui.
and about a quarter deep. Koiind the we.si side of Middle-point is a channel, a quarter
of a M)ilc long and l.")() yards wide, v, ith 6 and 7 fathoms water, c(mimunicating wjilu
very excellent little harbor for a small vessel, of about a f]uarter of a mile in diaini'tcr,
I'laya I'arda Cove is easily known by Shelter Island, that fronts th(! inlet ol I'l.m
Parda. The inlet is 1,^ nule long, and half a mile broad, but with vry deep watcrall
over. Hy lutling round the islaiul, a sliip will fetch the anclu)rage in tlui cove; and, al.
though sail should not be reduced too soon, yet the -stpjalls, if the weather be bad, Llmi
down the inlet of Playa Parda with great violence. Anchor a little within, and \v,\\(v.»
between the points of entrance, at about H cable from the middle point, in 5^ andbli
tlioms.
Of (.f lacier Hay, remarkable for a glacier at the bottom, and of another bay to the casi-
ward of it, we ktmw nr)thing : the former may possess ..'ood shelter and, f)erhaps, anrlur.
age; but the latter is too full of isbuids to be recommen led. JJetween (TJacicr Havami
IMaya Parda, the shore is bold but straight, e.xce[)ting a small cove about 2 /nilcs fo
Playa Parda, which seemed likely to all'ord shelter forsnudl vessels. Oil' /he west inner
point is a reef, but within it there seeiiied to be a basin half a mile deep. Eye skcitlies
of these three indentations were made as we passed by.
To the westward of Snowy Chaiuud are several inlets affording, apparently, good
shelter, but those we examined were found to have very deep water.
Opposite to Playa Parda is a deep opening which has more the appearance of a chnnnel
leading through the Tierra del Fuego, than any opening to the west of the Barbara, lib
evidently tlie inlet noticed by .'■iarm.iento, atid thus described by him: — "a great baj
(Ensenada) which trends mto the land in a \V. S. W. direction for more than 2 lengiu>,
and has an island at its mouth; — we called it the Abra (opening,) because we did iiotsee
its termination. On the opposite shore there is another port and grey beach (Puerto <
Playa Parda,) whicli has an island that shelters it. Within the Abra the land is lowanii
hummocky ; — half a league beyond (i. e. to the eastward of) the Abra is a cove; iiiid
on tlie opposite shore, a league across, is another cove whicl 'onus a port, wliicli the lib
dians call Pelepelgua, and the cove they call ]^\eafjuil." The cove Pelepelgiia, niaj
probably be (ilacier Bay, and Exeaquil must of course be one of the coves to the eiisi-
ward of the Abra.
To us, the ojiening or Abra seemed to be one mile and a half wide, with an islanili".
the ontrance. Within, it ap|)eare(l to take, first, a south, then a S. \V". course, and al'liv
wards to trend round a projecting, low, hummocky jjointof the east shore, and wind umltr
the base of a high precipitous ridgo on the opposite or west shore, towards the S. E.Lt-
yond whicli its course could not be observed.
On the seawan! coast there is a deep o|)enin<f behind Otway Bay, which, probably, iim
communicate with it.
The weather here is generally so thick, that, although the distance across be only Kvo
to three miles, yet one shore is frequently concealed from the other, by the mist; on
which account Captain Stokes found it impossible to form any |)lan of this part -A the
strait, on his passage through it. Captain Stokes, in leaving Stewart's Bay, says, "«
continued our progress to the westward, having westerly and S. W. winds, with tliitk
♦..eather and drizzling rain. The coasts on both sides were very rarely visible to us, by
reason of the thick mist by which they were cai»ped. It is, however, a bold coast on
n
faei; side, othe, ivi
M.MMAN'S CO
anchorage ; at tlic
iiiik- dt'e|»; a plan »
serves, that it aliori
j;(mmI li(dding "rouii
within sixty yards (
slionld be kept abo;
This cove is abo
advatilageous pliice
Opposite to Cap(>
situation. I'^om C
strait ami precipitoi
I are a iVw inlets, but
fliati a league to tin
'leep itdet. It is in
'IMie Heagle ancli
stopping place; the
ill l() fathoms, mudi
ti) bo ill laf. T)!^ U'
'J'lierr' is a plan of t
"T'l' land on III.
|Riiinniit to the water
land tlie trees crookei
.S. W. by \V. from t
, from which a narrow
formed by the desce
. well sheltered from f
are al.Mmdact." — Str
There is an anchoi
and rode out a heavy
trance, on which the
winds. On the wes
3Iedalla,) of which
voyage.
Jt has, according t-
tlie easternmost of w
^»idc ; it is strewed li
ffiood and clear passa
4 fathoms, and insidi
)""rt, there are no dai
only of the islet in it
is plenty of water.
The (iulf of Xaul
trending into the lan(
iniiles of some of the
about four miles acre
entrance is St. Ann's
half a mile wide. St
and E. S. E. directio
W. extremity,
The land forming t
I Jerome Channel, is c
I The plan that was
|who ]iassed through
} arm rale survey be m
I been examined, for i
|think there is any anc
^a mistake and get int
Ms no thornu<^hfarey—
Little has been sail
and fall, they are reall
* More probably by fl
I Channel, is very commc
1 The name Xaultegi
r
t horrible ;i|v
Ics, Hrpjiniifj
IS it apprnrnl
wero iKiiili..
(>r Iticl alum-
il witli siimv,
iituro passiii
si»in! niili;,
il'f of Vt';;i'i|.
st^s thrre :\f,
I', more stfiiif
^s ii;;r('(;s uri,
(I with slini,v
■arils iVoiiiii,.
ret hiirli. In..
lie niisiiikdi.
led Cor aii;T|.
•s, has a yi:
the eiitnii;,!'.
iiiel, a (|iiariit
eatinij; will, j
in (liaiiii'tnf,
niet ol I'layi
deep water iill
i:ove ; and, al.
r he bad, blmi
, and half «Hi
in 5^ and Gil
)ay to the mi
irhaps, anrliir-
aeier Hay ami
2 /niU:s imn
lio west iiiiior
Eye ski'kks
larently, good
:c of a chnniipl
Sarbara. it is
' a great baj
lian 2 leagiifi,
we did not see
eh (Puerto V
and is low ami
a cove; anil
which the 111-
spclfiiia, iiuij
;s to the e;\si-
1 an island is
rse, and alVr
id wind uiiiltr
theS. E.bc
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
cn
fid. side, otlip.w'ise the .strait wonld he utterly iinnavi!j;al)Ie in sucli weather."
, MAiMA.N'S (lOVK. one mile ami a h;df to the "west of ri;iya Parda, is a eonveiiient
I ;>n(borane; at the entranee it is about one third of a mile wide, and more than half !»
Miile denp; a plan was made of it, wiiicli will be a sulheieiu nuide. Captain Stokex, oh-
sirves, that it alfords shelter from i he prevailing winds ; the anchorage is :l"~' fathoms,
i;(ii)d holding "round ; but less wnler may be ((biained. if rtninired, there being f^ fathoms
«iihin sixty yards of the beach, at the bottom of the bay. In entering;, the west sido
.should be t>«'pt al)oard.
This cove is idioiit midway between (,'ape I'Ktoile and IMaya Parda ; and is a very
advantageous place to stop at.
Opposite to (.'ape I'Ktoile, is a bay with anchorage in 17 fathoms, in a well sheltered
I Situation. From ('ape I'l'.toile to the enlrani:e of the (iulf of \aultegua, the shore i.s
] strait and precipitous, and the hills an- barren and rocky. On the opposite shore there
1 are a few inlets, but the most iis'ful one for the navigator is Half I'ort I'.ay, rather more
than a league to the east of Cape Monday. It is immediately rouiitl the south side of a
ileep inlet. It is merely a slight indentation (d the coast.
)robably,
mav
s be onl)' i«(i
the mist ; on
is part -ji lilt
ly, says, "«-e
s, withtlnd
ibie to us, by
bold coast on
■■!
'I'he Meagle anchored lii<re on two or three occasions, and found it to be an excellent
sto|)ping place; the anchorage is within two tliirdsof i cable's length of tlio west point.
ill it) fathoms, muildv boitoiri. The situation of this cove was ascertained by observ uion
to be in lat. ■'J'P IV '.\G", and long. 73^ 14' 37" W. (or i»" 20' 56" west of Port Famine.)
There is a plan of this bav.
"T'l" land on the .S. W. sido of the a' chorage Is high, and thickly wooded from lt«
summit to the water's edge. (_)ii the eastern side it is lower, the vegetation more scanty
and the trees crooked and stunted, and pressed down to the N. K. by the prevailing winds.
, S. \V. by W. from the anchorage, is a remarkable cleft in the Humtnit of the highland,
! from which a narrow stripe cleared of jungle descends to the water's edge, apparently
^ fi)nne<l by the descent of a torrent or of large masses of the rock.* The anchorage i.s
well sheltered from prevailing l)roe/,e9, and the holding grounci is good; water and fuel
are abiindaiU. "—Stokes' MSS.
There is an anchorage under ('ape Monday for small vessels, in whicli Byron anchored,
and rode nut a heavy gale of wind. With the exception of a shoal in midway of the en^
trance, on which there are 4 fathoms, it seems to offer good shelter from the prevailing
iwinds. On the west side of Cape Monday is Cordova's Medal Bay (Puerto de la
fMedalla,) of whicli a very full but llorid description is given in the appendix of thut
'^voyage.
i Jt has, according to the description, an island in the entrance wlilch forms 2 channels,
lllie easternmost of which is only deep enough for boats, hut the western is 25 fathoms
t'wide; it is strewed half way across with kelp; hut between the kelp and the island is a
{rood and clear passage with G fathoms, sandy bottom. In the kelp there is not less than
4 fathoms, and inside il the depth is 'J, 8, and 7 fathoms, sandy bottom. To enter this
P'^rt, there are no dangers that are not visible, and those are easily avoided ; they consist
only of the islet in its entrance, and some patches of kelp, Qver which, however, there
is plenty of water.
The (iulf of Xaultegua, improperly called Bulkeley's Channel, is a deep opening,
trending into the land in an easterly direction for 28 miles, and approaching within two
miles of some of the inlets on the north-west side of Indian Sound. The entrance ia
about four miles across, but afterwards expands to a width of nearly 15 miles. At the
entrance is St. Ann's Island, between which and the south point, is a navigable channel,
half a mile wide. St. Ann's Island is about two iniles long, and extends in a W, N. W,
and E. S. R. direction; oft' its N, W. end ia nn islet, and there is another close to itg S,
W. extremity,
The land forming the north side of the strait, between the Gulf of Xaultcguaf and the
Jerome Channel, is called Crnker Peninsida.
I The plan that was made of the gulf is little more than a sketch- Captain Fita Roy,
hvho passed through it in a boat, and examined it to its termination, says: *'jf ever nn
\arnirate survey be made of the gulf, it must be when all other gulfs in the world have
■Ibeen examined, for it is utterly useless; and from the appearance of its shores 1 do not
think there is any anchorage in it. Therefore, shoiild a ship be so unfortunate as to make
a mistake and jjet into it, she must keep under weigh until she gets out «gain, There
is no thornuiihfarey — Fitz Roy's Journal.
Little has been said of the tides in this part of the strait, and, Indeed, as to their rise
od fall, they are really of no ijnportance, being little more than 4 feet, It is high water
* More probably by the eiTeot of a guat of wind, whiob., to the eastward, particularly in the Gabriel
IChannel, is very common
1 The name Xaultegua is from Sarmiento, who very cojroctly describes it,
78
618
BLUNT*H AMKRICAIV COAST PILOT.
at t'lill iinil clinngo in all parts within a few minutes of noon. The current nets ron»tnnt.
ly to till" eastward with niori- or Ii'mh Ntrerifith.
Hftwi'cn Caprs Notch and (iuocl, tin- iiirrrnt set uh 'wo miles to the eautwaid in v
houi'4; and IVoin Cape (^uod to I'ort (iailant, we found the current had favored usii
miles in 3^ hours. Tlie ebb tide sets to the eastward.
Strait of Ma/raUinens — Sea Reach, includinff Capes Virlory, and Pillar, and the Evan.
gelinls.
Pot ween Eli/al)etli Island atiiltli(! western end of Long Reach, there is very little mui
T ' "iivy pall, or, perhaps, even a slroiig hree/c, a short sea may l)e espci jcni cil i,
;der part (d the strait, piirlitiilarly near, and to llie westward id' Cape I'mwurl:
but nothinc; to be eomiianil lo the (onlusecl, breaKinii swell, that runs in tlic m,i,,,
Western Keach. It was felt by the JJeagU; wlien beatintj to the westward, iiiniiediiut ,
on reaehiiii; ( a|)e Providence. There seems to be no danger for vesstds beat iiiir thnmj
the strait hereabouts, the >hore beiui; liidil to. I'yroii [lassed a night, and a vcrv d' .
jiestuous (Hie, here; as did also the l?ragle, the latter not being able to litid .iiiiiini ,
before night. ( 'afttaiu Stokes u|ii>n this oeeasion, writes: — " We continued beatii,,
windward, the wind scjually and weather rainy. 'JMie enast on both sides is bcdd. ( ,
hoards were directed during the uiglit, which was very dark, by the sight of ('iipc I;.
right when on oru; shore, and of ('ape Providence when on the other. We coinrMi, ,
ta( ketl at the distance of a mile from either shore."
A league to the westward of Cape Monday is an inlet, wliiclj we sup|)ose to he S,
miento's Ptu-rto Angosto. Upon its west lu-ad is a conspicuous round mount, nnd in
the north, between the mount and a projecting point, is a confmed but very sniic %l
commodious cove fora small vessel, in 17 fathoms, at a quarterof a mile within the !im(|
In consulting the appendix to Cordova's voyage, it would seem that this iirojci imri ,
an island, insulated by the inlet here, called Puerto Angosto. The description ni:
thus : — "A bay formed in the Tierradel Kuego, between Cape San lldefonso, (I'lirJilit
and an island in the eastern part of its moutli. The figure of the island is trinii;iil
and its N. E. point lies in the line of bearing of Capes Lunes, (Monday,) and Siui \h.
fonso, (Upright.) At the east end of the island is an inlet nnuiing to the soutli-Mt«t,i.!
mile wide, and a league long, to the bottom of the bay ; the S. E. side of the inihim! ff.
ing 1| mile long. To the westward, tiie distance between the shore and the hhsfn
much more, and the direction of the second channel is N. J W. The bay, whose ;«[•
eat breadth is two leagues, has at its bottom, and towards the S. K. part, the n\mzi,\
an inlet, the course of which disapj)ears behind the mountains, in n S. I E. diriv j,
There appeared to be a good anchorage between the island and the eastern shun. I;;i
we had no bottom with 30 fathoms."
There seems to be no doubt that the island above described is the projectinir pnii)!,'
miles to the west of (!ape Monday, and thai Saruiiento's Puerto Angosto iMsiil;m<i;:
but the Spanish cliart is so vague, and our own so imperfect in its part, that I prelVrlf;.
ing it to future examination, rather than invent an island ; although, from the Spanw
account, there seeiris no reason to doubt its existence.
Of Upright Bay we know little. The Adelaide rode out a gale from the enstirir;
with her stern in the surf of tlie beach, and the Heagle anchored under the enstside'
the cape, at about half a mile .S. W. of the rocky islet, and for shelter froin \vp<tpr'
winds, found it to be very good. Of this captain Stokes says: — "We anchonilai.
cable's length off a small patch of light-colored shingle beach, situated at tlieww
side of the bay, in 22 fathoms, sandy bottom. The anchorage, thoueh affonliiii; exf-
lent shelter from the prevailing winds, is bad with a southerly one ; for the stcrpnt^-
the bottom recpiiring a vessel to anchor close to the shore, sufficient scope is notltlr
veering cai)le. There is a plan of the bay in Hawkesworth froiu Byron's acrnunt. «
anchored in the southern part of the bay, perhaps under the lee of the islands totlif
E. of the cape.
CAPE UPKICriT bears due south 5 miles from Cape Providence. It has a rn'
islet a quarter of a mile off its east extremity, surrounded by kelp, which also rxtc:.
for some distance from the cape towards the islet, at the end of which there arc::-
thorns.*
CAPE PROVIDENCE is a rugged rocky mountain, higherthan the adjacent rs:
it is deeply cleft at the top, and, when bearing about nortli, the western portion nfi'
summit appears arched, the eastern lower and peaked. When the cape bears E. I)VJ
* Mr. Simp.son notices a reef about 3 leagues to the west of Cape Upright, and at some disiisill
from the shore ; we did not observe it.
in.iR. distant aboi
ipi.iricr ol° a pom
'I'lii'ie arc mdiik
to ,i |j1.ui given in
(he »iiy, as well a:
scciiniy to ve>scl.«
Till' di.slance I'l
l;iiiil u'ches iiMvar
dcsirilx-'s tlie co;i>
1.111(1 of ('ape I'ri
wliii li two are coi
,1 diit.dice their (o
>.i^t' til luo good ;
1(1 I" fu inure .shel
i"'our miles to tl
is a Well ^llt;lfercd
Koiiiid l.slaiid and
roiiiiil the bilicr lo
tlicreare •,'.'; lallioi
rocky. On lilt, ea
Hnclioiaiio of Tiiiii
mile dei'p. li.s cii
lotviiii; rlirectioiis, i
of rocky i.slets, one
tlie ea.steru side ol
outer rock a bertli i
of «at(!r, ;illd U|)|||1
?" \n c.\c;elleiii le
hke a tomhstiuie, al
. dial forms the coas
j rucks to be roundeii
The least water fi
^ and near and wiihin
the lead in hand, ai
I there is no real (Ian
a mile from the bac
known of the hdcIk
High water at ful
diciilar rise and fall
'I'he flood tide on
^ rarely exceeds half
I Phillip, to the west
'rows again 4 league
To the westward
the land of the cajx
«. W
end IS a rod
Between Capes
Itwo openings; the
IK. for 10 miles frorii
[Channel. The rod
' W. asf«>- as ,'} miles
Under :he lee, (t
[cboied in 18-27. Ol
j anchorage in 1-5 fat
; westward, inasmuch
Ihere is formed into (
lanchorages on the o
Ithe northward of we
las in every anchorage
■unless we except tht
joose abounds here,
[no quadrupeds."
Of the coast of the
»e know very little;
pain anchorage, but,
h deep, precipitous
Band shelves down to
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
GIO
etR ronntant-
nlwiird in ",'
liivurfd II- ti
nd the Evan-
^■y liltlfSMil
<|)fiii'ii( I'd .'I
I'f l''i-(iw;itil:
n llif SI.;, r
, iiiiiiir-iliiiini
Mliiiii ihriiii.i;
(I ;i vi'iv ti:
ml iiii(li(ii V
H'd liciitiii;',
i.s hold. <'/
(if ( 'iipc I !■
,V«' (.'Dmiiiii:.,
ise to i)P S
inoiint, aii'Jh
^(■ry snuc %'i
tliiii the Vk!
IS projcciion;.
script ion riir.
iiso, (I'liri^k
I is triniisuli;,
I and Sun lllf.
s(iutli-wis|,!
■ the i5i|;iiii!)-i-.
d tlie \Anlii
y, whose ;m|-
, tlio rnnriiji'
I E. dirri'iD,
tern shurc.ljst
jectinir i'"in'l
to iiisiilnie*!!;
t I prefer If Ji-
ll the Spani-i
n the ra^tiri!-
the east side
from wp<ie;'
anchori'ilaii
ed at tlifW":
ffonlini; exp
le stef|)nt'*-
)e is not left'
s acrount, «•
shmds totlie-
It has a rnf't
;h also exlPC'
there arc:!;-
adjacent ri'i:
l)orti(iii "f I''
I bears E.liJ-
innK' ili^t'tnt about l\ league, a hltlu round rocky inlet will br seen open of it, about one
(luirler of a point of the coiupass ?iiore southerly." — Stoket' MSS.
'I'liiie an- soon' •iichoraijes on the rinht, to the N. K. of Cape Providence, aernrdinR
to .1 pi. in niven in llawkesworth's ("ollection of Voyai(e>4, l)iit llu-y are too iinicb out of
(he tvay, da well as very open and exposed to southerly winds, to bu of UHe, or to oiler any
hceiiriiy to vessels bound thron:;li the strait.
Tilt' 'li->*ii"ii;e from Cape I'rovidence to Cape Taniar, is ')\ miles; in this space the
liiiiil iii'hes inwards, and forms a liay about a league and a half det>p. Captain Stokes
tloirilies the ( (last lo the east of Cape 'I'aniar to be fornii-d into two lar^e bights by the
land ul' Cape I'rdvidi'nce. ( )n the western side of the latter are several islands, of
wbii li two are conspicuous; they arc roiiinl and of a ^ood lni;;hl, and uell wooded ; at
a distance their form is conical, the eastern beiiij; the lowest, Itetween them is a pan-
sane to two j;(»od anchorages, which riientenal .Skyrint;, wlio examineil them, consider-
ed ecu mure sheltered tlun 'Paniar llarhur.
Four niib-s to the I'astvvanI of Cape 'i'ainar is Komnl Island, lo the N. W. of whi<.'h
is a well >lit;lteied anch<irai{e, but with deiMi water. In siandin;^ in, pass midway between
ilound Island and an island to the westward, which lies clos(' to the shore, and haul
roniKl the latter lo the mouth of a cove, in the entrance of which, near the south shore,
there are S) latbonis, sand. The shore to the N. and N. K. of Hoiitid Island, is very
ro<'Uv. On the east siili' of the piomuntory of ( 'ape Tamar, is the useful anil e\(-ellent
anclioraze of Tamar Harb.)r. It is scarcely -' miles wiile, and rather mori' i!ian half a
mile deep. lis entrance is not exactly free from danger, but with attention to tiie fol-
lowin;; directions, none need be apprehended. There is a sunken rock between a u;roup
of rocky islets, one thinloveroii the western side, ami a patch of kelp, one third towards
the easierii side of the bay. W^illi a westerly wind it would lie advisable lo i;ive the
outer rock a berth of J cal)l'es' leii<;tli to av(ud this ilaiijjer, on which there are only ') feet
of water, and upon which the J5eaia;le struck.
"An excellent leadiiiL'-mark for this shoal, is a whitened portion of bare rock, looking
like a loinbstune, about one third ol'ihe way up the ijreen side of the moiinlainous land
that forms the coast of the bay. T'his stone bears N. 70° VV., (by compass,; from the
rucks to be rounded on ent rinji the iinchorage."
The least water found aim)iiji the kelp on the east side of the channel was 4,^ fathoms,
and near and within the ed,i;e towards the rocky islt^ts, there arc 7 lathoms; so that with
the lead in hand, and a look out for kelp, which should not utmecessarily be entered,^
there is no real (lander to be appreheiiilc'il. The ]}ea;^le aiuhore I at about one third of
a mile from the hack of the bay. The plan will show what is further necessary to bu
known of the anchorase.
IIii;h water at full and chan?*' takes place in Tamar Harbor at 3h. 5m, and the perpen-
dicular rise and fall is 5 feet.
'I'he (lood tide on this part of he northern shore of the strait sets to the eastward, and
.rarely exceeds haif u mile an hour. At this part the strait is 7 miles wide: at Ca|)o
Phillip, to the westward the breadth increases to o leauues; but at Cape Parker it nar-
Irows a.i;ain 4 leagues, whicli breadth it keeps to the end.
To the westward of Cape Tamar is Tamar Island. It is high, and is separated from
jthe land of the cape by a deep channel from half to one mile wide. Half a mile oil" its
IS. W
eiul IS a
rock.
ut some
disltat*
tain
anchorasje, but, iii general, they are not found in the large harbors, which are most-
' n
I
(
Between Capes Tamar and Phillip, a space of 4 leagues, there is a deep bight, with
[two openings; the easternmost, in which are Clacier and ley Sounds, extends lo the N.
lE. for 10 miles from the mouth, and the westernmost is the comujencenient of Smyth'a
Channel. The rocks, called the Stragglers, extend to a considerable distance to the S.
W. as f^r as 3 miles within the line of bearing between Cape Phillip and Tamar Island.
Under :he lee, (the N. E.) of Cape Phillip is Sholl's IJay, in which the Beagle an-
[chored in 1&27. Of this place Captain Stokes writes: — " We found there an excellent
J anchorage in 15 fathoms. It is valuable for vessels working through the strait to the
westward, inasmuch as, from the discontinuous nature of the northern shore, (which
lere is formed into deep bays,) this place will be much more easily recognized than the -
[anchorages on the ()|)posite coast; besidfis the winds hang here, in general, somewhat to if
[the northward of west, hence a better starting-|)lace tor the westward is obtained. iJerc,
las in every anchorage on the strait, water and fuel are (vasily procured : but nothing more,
inless we exce|)t the wild berries, (Beri)eris, sp.) celery, muscles, and limpets; the wild
oose abounds here, but its nauseous, filthy tcute renders it uneatable. No inhabitants, _._
[no quadrupeds." jjj
Of the coast of the strait on the south side, between Cape Upright and Valentine Bay,
Iwe know very little; there are several deep bights and spacions harbors, which may con- M
ly deep, precipitous chasms or r
iiies
more
in the rock. The smaller coves, or where the
land shelves down to the sea, are more likely lo afford anchorasres
,J
mo
ULUNT's AMCltlCAlV COAH'r IMl,Ot.
In (lie a|)|)('n(lix to ('ur<lovu'!< work urn (iPMcriptiotiM ol'soinn aiicliorn^f!^, wliicli ir tniy
be iisi-l'iil to lilt iitioii lii-rc : it xayM, " In roiiiiiliiii{ ('ii|i<> (lldcruiiNO,) r|iriKl>( wv ruiniil
oursclvfs in a hay, nut vrry ilcfp, J miles atroH.i, (lividcd in itn ffiiiii' hy inaiiy i-^lct,* n j
rocks fxirndinn to ilic north; tin- oimr or northiitiiriost o' whic h lirars W. fron, i|,
cxIiiMiiiiy III' tlio rapt'. One niih; N', \V. { N. Ironi tlic nortiiernniuitt inlt-l ia u ruuinl
ruck, wliirlt in ol' (lati''t>rons approacli."
To tho westward oi this hay is atiollicr, I! miles widp, and ahont »h drep; the wIkjI,
t)f it, |i;irti( iilarly towards thi^ <■; stern part, is tiill of islets, and at the hottoin is h n,,
row eanal trending to the M. S. ]•',. At the wesltru end ot this hay, called hy \V,il ,
the May oC Islands, iVom the lUindier it coiitimid, coonneuces a tiiiiii, which, wiilnl.
two preoediim, niaUe the ^reat hay, called liy the Indian-^, accordiiii; to .S.irinieiiio, \;.
(piili|iia. It is contained hetweeti (.'ape Cpriullt and ahold iirojectin^ point, tl) milts',
the W. N. W., called Point I0clu'ni(|ite. The country ii thcif dcscrihfil to he |i„
«ind the ve;;etalion scimiy.
The j»astern pilitit ol' tlnr Third May has a utrinCof islets rsti'tidin^ a mile to the imr
and tti the soutii-wist are several others. And on its east side is a l»ay called Cu,
^Miil!;ua ; anil a little hevond it, at the buttum ol the hay, is I'ori Criarte, tht: inuiitliM
which is 'J rallies' leii:;lli across.
P()HT rUIAKTK was carelnlly soutidnd, hut the hottom is genernlly had and Mon.
With .3, H, II, to IS lathoMis. The harlmr is snironnded hy hi^li moiiiiiains, ri.-itiLM .
tically, and with only a lew stnnltMl trees on lh»! shores. Its f;reateRt (■xleiit, v»liii|, ,
from north to south, is half a mile; the mouth is not visihie ntitil <lo.se to it: its iicir.
iiiii ' iim Cape I'rovidenct! is .S. i-j^ ;)()' \V, There is no danjicr in vnlerin;; it hut uli;.
is visihin; hut it is not recommended as a i^ood harhor, from (lie loul L'round all iivinl
A little to the eastward also, of I'oinl Kcheni(|ue, is Cape Santa ( asilda — a low iminf
To the west i)f I'oint Koheiiiipuj is a harhor J', miles wide, the points of ftiir«me
beinu; N. W. and S. K. Tliere is an islaml in the centre formhii; two channels, hiitwitli
Very deep water, tiu ;;rotliid heint; foulid with '>.') fathoms. At the hoitoiii is ;i c;!!!]
trending; to tht?S. S. W. and disappearinii helwecn tlie mountains. On the eastfrn >ii;f
of the island the ciiamitd is at first a mile uiile, hut afterwards narrows <:radii;illy; i|,r
western channel is scarcely two caliles' leniilh aCross. The shores are hiuh piici|iii.
ous mountains. The Indians, accordiiii; to Sarmientu, call the pi iv i; l'ueiiacli;iil::i,{.
THK CANAL DK LA THMl»KSTAT), (or .Stormy Channel.) (roni the iltsivi;.
tion is tidf to he recommended. The Water is very ileep all over, and the place .Hirl-
no security for vessels of any ilescription. To the. westward is a hetler liarlmr, '4ir'.i
the Spanish officers thought to he Sarmiento's Port .Simtii .Monica, it hears ,S.>,\\'.
from Cape Taiiiar, and it is 11 miles to the westward of Cape L'pfiyht, hut iiutiiwe
than .3 leaj^ues aeconrm}f to Sarmiento's account.
Two thirds of a mile to the westward, is a point with t\Vo islets oflTit, roiind wliitlil*
Port (-'hurrilca, a deep and spacious hay. two miles witle, the points hi'arln^ K. S. i
and W. N. W. Contailiinj^ two ports and some coves, hut with very deej) waicr, am
therefore useless, for it wonid he necessary to make fast to the rocks to secure n ves>pl
To the westward of this we have l.iid down a useful cove, Darhy Cove, in wliici,
small vessels may ohtain jjood shelter.
From Darby Cove the coast extends to the N. firj^ W. for 7 miles, havin<; in tlieii;
terval several indentations, hut all with deep water; at I'oint Felix the land trends ileei-
ly in to the soutli-west, and forms a hay 5 miles wide anil 2 7 deep. At its western Milt
is Vah'iitine Harhor, in which the Heaule anchored, of which there is no writlcmlf-
3cripti(in in captain StoUiN' Joiiitial : tiie plan, however, will show the nature dfilit'iiv
choraije. which seems to lie coiumodioiis and secure, and of easy approach. On liiiiil
injj; round the island, there are some islets lialf a mile oil', which must he avoided, bi:
otherwise tliere seems to he no dangers.
The anchoraue, as a stopping.; place, is in from 'JO to '2(^ fatlionis, sand, at tioarlv
tjuarter of a iiiile from citiiir .slioiu. A more shclteied .situation may iii^ ohtaiiicd In;:-
south-west.
The latitude of the mount (marked in the plan) '^1)2° 55' 5", anil long. 74° 15'. Va-
riation of the compass 24'^ II*'.
CAPE CCiOV AS, the extiemity of ah island that is close to the shore, is in l;ititiul'
52° a.V 1')", and loii!.'. 7 J ' 17' .'iO". Jietween it and Cape Valentine the coast Coni!* a
bay with islands in it. To the westward, also, of the cape, the < tiast is hroken, and u>m-
some sinuosities. A Ira^iie N. W. V ^^^ fi'om Cape Ciievar;, is the east part of Tins-
ilio I>ay. wliich was not examined.
The Spanisii account describes it to be 1,' mile wide, in the direttion of N. W. nml
S. E., and half a mile deep. At the bottom there is a port with an entfance half a niilf
across, hearing nearly N. and S. It is a well sheltek-ed port, trending W. S. W. fori'
mile, with two small basins at the bottoui. The depth is very great, but close to tlie f
wr^t Hhore ther'e an
14 ureal, and neneri
iHiiie was there less
There IS plenty <
(crelice to Tilesil.iy
sitnaJrd three ipiart
|;ithiMIIH Tuesilay
ship perliaps mi;;hl
( )|i ilie north >-l
. inaii.iMe projecin
over it. To the <
f iM>ierii head of wh
teviral isfinds in ll
iiii: to the moth.
( )n the west side
.ipproai'h is not cle
iMpt! seems to alfi
with two rorkv isle
The liuid ofCap
It coninienees a ran
, never he approacln
|isl,ind is Westminsi
s|ii(Uoiis piiiiits. Sill
'I'lie Meaule ran in a
of asceriainint; its pi
SIR .lOiLN N'A
^iid |n>rhaps, huiidri'
aiiiiini;st them are s
\)H the soiitli coast t
UceesS.
It is a (lan^iProus ^
jsea breaches very hi;
fre(|uenlly in amoiii;i
» A leamiT! to the wi
tlis one mile and a ijii
•\V. for one mile and
!J. K., with lOfatlioi
ained in 27 fathoms,
At ;{', miles from t
<0F iMKKCV, (Pne
JBiid Carteret,) one o
i>iily 4 miles tvithin (
^wait a favoiable opp
'or there is no dance
oldiiii; ground exce
lie oil" the (irst blyht
eiiient for many pui'
The observations f
islets, the summit 0!
he variation is 23°
Three miles to the
hich Capt. Sto'kes I
ifficulty, nwinn to tl
e observed the lati
.82'J, with his inslrui
tscent was so ijreat tl
The extremity of (
ictory in 52" 16' IC
le strait.
"THE EVANGf
|he Isles of Directioi:
estern month of the
iiid some detached r
luited only to afford ;
landing on one oft
id highest may be st
bi.unt's amkuican coa«t IMF.oT.
C'Jl
wliirti if rtiiy
iiiiy iNlctM.li I
VV. friiiii i|,.
I<| i!* a riiu.i
'|i; tin; will,,,
ttdlll iN 11 ti;i,.
Ic.l l.y \v.,r,
'ii<li, Willi II
iiriiiii'iiiii, \.
lit. Id miles',
'il tu be |io<i,
' til tlip nnni;
ciiilt'd Cti
till' lIKJltlt,
lllKJ Iltld Mmi'.
iiiM, ri.-itiL' I !.
itciit, vtiml. ,
(I il : its ii{,ii.
in;: it liiit »!; :
liikI ciII <iw'!,;
— n low |iiiiii;'
Is of cmiciiii..
i>l\c\s, lilil «il':
I toll) is ;i Clin I
le eiistfrn m/
L'r.iiiiially; ii,
hiuii |)M(i|i.
(■ii;i('li;iil;;i,j.
ni the (le»(,i;i-
(• pliice ntinnl*
liiirlxir, 'iliuli
Ix'iics S.>,\\',
, lillt liutli.:e
•oiiiid wlii'l::.
ilii^ K. S, \.
'f|) wilier, ;iii,
(•lire 11 ve^^^■
t)ve, in «liii:.
viiin; in the lu-
ll IfPiids ileei"
s wcslcrn Mih
IK) written ilc-
lire of die an-
il. On li»iil'
le avoided, bt
1(1, at nearlv;
ihtiiiiicd t(i lb
7t= 15'. Vj-
is in Iiitiiiiil'
coast lonii^ 1
;pii. and l'iirin>
jiait (il'Tnix-
of N. W. and
ce half a mile
S. W.lorU
lit close to the
west shnrfl fhi'Cfi nro H, lo, to 1.1 fiiihiMiis, on satiil ami coral. Near the mmitli tlic ilfpili
i4 (jrcat, iiiiil i.M'ii«Mally ol' ntorn'H. Tln'rc inn si-vt-ral lianki luioycd li) nv,\ witd, l»iil in
iiiMif wuM tlicrc IfMM than 7 t'allioinN water.
Tlu'ri' IS |iliiiiy ol' wooil ami water in 'I'nixillo llay, Imf iiol ody will visit il in |ire-
tcrciii '■ t«» 'I'lUiday Hay, or, rather, the moic convfiin'iii am lioiani' ol 'I'lH-fday Cove,
si(iia;i d three i|iiarters ol a mile south ol' t 'ape Cortinlo. The aiii hora-:!- \n in I J to II
lallioiiii* 'I'liesilay Kay is lar;:er, ami iherelore more exposed (o ihe M|uall8, iiul lor II
ship perhaps inislii lie nnir« tonveniiMit.
(Ill the north shore ol' the sirait, opposite to Tape Coriado, is Cape Parker, a re-
iiiark'ilde pro|i'ciioii. with three liiinnmiiks on ihe Miiiitnii ul the lii^'h land wiii(-h riscH
over It. To till' eastward the coast lli'iifis deeply in lo the iiorlli, lolinim: '<* hav, tint
I iMitiMii head of whicli. Cape IMiillip, hears .S. ')7 ' K. ') miles. There appeared to lus
I several islandM in the hay, nnd at the hottoni a narrow upeilili;;, perhaps a chaniiel, lead-
■ ins; to the north.
( )ii the west side of the hay the roiisf i.s indented and alVords some aiicliora'.;e's. hut the
.ipprnaiji is not (dear. The first hay, iiowi'ver, to the eastward olthi' S. I',, trend ol llm
I'.ipe seems to alldrd a uood sloppiii',' place; hut it is lioiiied liy a consider. ilde shoal,
with two rocky isleti*. The depth is Iroiii 7 to 'J'J I'athonis.
'I'lie land of' Cape Parker will piohahly turn otif to he an island. To fiie westward of
it comminces a raii^e ol islands, rockn and shoals, Irontini: a hroken coa<it tliat should
never lie approacheil hut lor llic purpose ol' discovery or seal (islieiy. Tlic easfcrnmosi
island is \Vestininsrer Hall, a hi'.:h rm ky island, and tlieic are two or thrc( oiher ( on-
|s|ii('Uoiis points, such as the Cupola and Ohservatioii .Mount, that iiiiuht lie noticed.
■TliP iJeaiile ran in atnoiiL'sf the hreakers, and anchorl'd near the latter, lor tiit- purpose
- (d ascenainin;; its position, and ohtainint,' hearings Cor the suiVcV.
s Sl!{ .lOll.N N.AKMOKOrdirS l.>^L.\M).S consist ol' h or 10 principal islaiidv
hiiid in-rhaps, hundreds ol'snialier ones. I'ehinil them thernseenii'd to he a tiiatiti(d, and
|iiiniiiiij;st tiiein are several ani'liorajjcs, hut nnnn to he recoiiiiiiended, especially when
|viii the .sxmtli coast there arc two or three intich hctlcr, tmich sal'er, ami oririiih easier
''acc(;sS..
It is a tlan<;<'rous coast, as well from the immense iiiimlier of rocks liiion which tlu;
sea iircaches very high, as from the tides, which near the ed;^^ of ilie line ol shoals set
«fre(|iiently in amoii<;st them.
iA h'..\»\\v. to the westwai'd ofCajie ('ortadn, i« .SKVIllNd IIARIJOU. Its entrance
s one mile and a (|uarter wide, and afterwards half a liiile, and trends to the .S. W. Iiy
, iV. for one mite and a half, and then terminates in a (ove extcndintj half a mile to the
*S. K., with 10 fathoms in it. There are .some ishuids in it, and anchorage mij;lit he ub-
itained in 'J7 fathoms.
' .\t .{'. mile!? from the west poifit of .'^kyrin;; llarhor is the east head of the II.M'IUHl
•OF iMKKCV, (Puerto de la .Misericordia of Sarmieiito, .Separation llarliorof W'allis
tiid Carteret,) one of the hest anehorai;es of the weslern part of the strait, and heinij;
jbiily I miles witliiu Cape Pillar, is very conveniently placed for a ship to anchor at tu
Jfiwait a favdiahle op|)ortiinity for leaving the strait. The plan will hea stilficient guide ;
Tor there is no dancer in entering;. The depth is moderate. IJ to M fathoms, and the
loldlng ground exctdlent, being a black clay. A ship may select her position ; but the
me oil' the first hlnht round the point beins; eijually well sheltered, and mlich more con-
'enient for many purposes, is flit! best berth.
The observations for latitude and longitude were made upon the largest of Olisprvafinn
[slets, the summit of which was found to be in hit. i)2^ d-1' 57", and long. 7-1' lio' 31".
'he variation is 23° 48'.
Three miles to the WMfvvard of the largest Observation Tslel, is Cajie Pillar. ni)on
'hich Capt. Sto'kes landed, on the 'i5th of February, IH'J/, but iiol without t:onsiderable
litTiculty, owing to the great swell that then, and indeed alway;*, prevails near it. Here
le observed the latitude. Captain Fit/, Roy also landed iii a cove u' der the ca|)e in
.8-"), with his instruments, to obtain bearings from its summit ; but the dilfuully of tile
iscent was so great that he did not risk the destruction 6\' them.
! The extremity of Cape Pillar is in lat. 3-2° 42' 5:}", and Ioiil'. 74° .V)' 3\", and Cape
Wictory in 52'^ 16' 10", and 74° 50' 55". These points form the western entrance of
"he strait.
"THE EVANGELT.STS, as they were named by the early Spani.sh navigators, but
jlie Isles of nirection by Nariioroiigli, from their forming a capital leadiiii: mark for the
western mouth of the strait, are a group of rocky islets, consisting of four principal ones,
tnd some detached rocks and breakers. The islands are very rugged and barren, and
|uited only to afford a resting place or breeding haunt of seals and oceanic birds. Tliere
landing on one of the islands, and anchorage round them, if necessary. The largest
id highest may be seen ia tolerably clear weather, from a brig's deck, at the distance of
i
()22
Blum's American coast pilot.
7 or 8 leaoriles.* Tl)e southernmost, from its shape called the Sugar Loaf, \s'n\U\
5-2° '2i' Irt", arid h)inf. 7o^ 02' o(>". From the Suijar Loaf the extremity of Cape I'li);,,
bears N. ;J8" \V., 2.1:, miles, aiid from Cape V^ictory, according to Capt. Slokes'surwi
S, 4-2^ W. 11 miles."— [Stokos' M.SS.]
The tides here are very variaMe, and sometimes set to the E. N. E. towards theroiv
that front Cape V^iclory and .Sir John Narborough's Islands.
Of the Sea, or outer Coast of Ticrra d.d Furt^o, from Cape Pillar to Cape Diego, in ^/^ ,
Le Midrc, hy Captain Jiobeit Fitz Roy, K. iV.
[In this section, references (printed in Italics) are made to a work published hy (a
tain Fitz; Roy, entitled " N'icvvs uf the Coast, taken on board his Majesty's siuve\;
vessel, 13eas,'le, Irf-Ji) and 16:)()."]
The western entrance to the Strait of Ma'^alhaens is easily known by the wide okn
inf; between Sir Ji/iin Narborouj^h's Islands and Cape Pillar. The Evan;:elists V;
themselves distinctly at 0 miles distance, 'i'hey are four barren rocks, about lUj.v,
above the sea.
On the north side of the strait, near Cape Victory, is a remarkable height, c.i
Diana's Peak.
WESTMINSTER HALL is remarkable, but the land about Cape Pillar caruiuii:
mistaken, after a glance at the chart.
In nraking the land and a|)proac'hlng the strait, a ship should keep well to the iiur:;.
ward of Cape Pillar, and sliould, indeed, close the Evangelists, unless the wind :,,,
southing, because there is a strong current which sets across the entrance of tliestrii;
directly towards flie dan,'erous cluster of rocks called the Apostles and .ludges. |||.
lows the trend of the coast, ami would set a s'.ip many miles to the southward U](.,i
Pillar if she stood in for it witliout making projjer allowance. It runs from 1 to ;'iiii|.,
an hour, according to the winds that are or have been prevalent.
When fairly within the strait, a shi|} should close the southern shore. If intendiiii;
anchor, the fust anchorage is the Harbor of Mercy, 4 miles from Ca()e Pillar. Its pL.r
is shown by five small islands, round which you pass and haul in to tlie anchorage.
Close to Cape Pillar are two small rocks, called the Launches. They are uotiuMe
than ;j cables' length from the shore.
The cape and the shore on each side are steep to. Off the cape, at 2 miles distancf,
are 60 ami 70 fathoms, line sand.
Proceeding along the outer, or south-west coast, the Apostle and Judge Rockssliow
themselves. They are some feet, from a to 50, above the water, but many breakei5>li]ff
near them, and indicate an extensive reel'. The outer rock is four miles from tijeuul,
i^leven miles from Cape Pillar is Dislocation Harbor, a place of refuge for an eiiibiu;
or distressed ship, but unfit for any other purpose. Its entrance is rendered difticuli.:!
the eye, by rocks, on which the sea breaks violently, and by two rocks under waina-i
which the .sea does not always break, but whose place is accurately shown in the plain:
the harbor. The place of Dislocation Harbor is pointed out by the heights, caiiudL"
:and Shoulder Peaks. They are the most remarkable on that part of the coast, audrii
niediiUely over the harbor.
To fnid the entrance, steer for the peaks ; look out for the weather and lee rocks, boi
■several feet above water, the sea breaking violently on them, and when within 4 miles ;;
the shore you will distinctly see tlie opening from the mast-head. In going iii.aKJidt!.-
two rocks at the entrance, and anchor in the innermost part. Only a small sliip tup
out again without a fair wind. The prevailing winds send in a swell, but the \)\mf
<)uite secure. Water may be obtained very easily. The boats can lie in a stream wliiii
runs from the mountains, and lill alongside. Wood is plentiful. Four small vesM
may lie in security, M"'he bottom is very even, from l.O to "JS fathoms, fine white saiiii.
The entrance is narrow, exposed to the prevailing wind and swell, which might, 1 1
days together, prevent a vessel from getting out to sea. Two miles from Dislucaiw
Harbor, is Cape Deseado, the highest land hereabout, and remarkable. A rock) kki
lies one mile offshore.
From Cape Deseado the coast runs high and unbroken for about two miles, then iber;
IS an opening, not examined.
Several islands succeed for a space of two miles, after whicli you open Barrister Bay.
an exposed place, full of islets, rocks, and breakers, and unlit lor any vessel.
CAPE S[JNDAY is the next headland. It is hisrh and prominent
Two islets and two dangerous rocks lie off it: they are shown in the chart
(Se
This cape is on one of a cluster called the Week Islands. At their south side is a roai
* We saw them 22 miles off, from the Adventure's deck.— [P. P. K j
iptPad, with good h
,,„k. It is expose
iKit advise a vessel t
t^,\. (piite secure, b
I.M tattioms, good h
The eye must b
description — inlets
tlie rocky places.
to tlieiii difficult, ai
There are, howe
>in their (nder.
Nix miles south (
liaiiicd bv ("apt. C(
^ CAPK INMAN
Nos. 7, >" anri ').)
Behind the islanc
an anchorage decid
•north-west winds.
The Beagle rode
in, she was exposei
tirrrd how to find it
Between the islar
feet security, smoot
close to the west si
.^wind blowing from
|Fuegian harbor.
I Behind, or to the
'epace of water, surr
•scattered about, an
•hence to the Straits
;,can reach, from the
Off CAPE INM
nd gives them a fo
ihore, and shows its
CAPE SCHET:
Jie Landfall Islandi
'bourse along shore,
latitude of Cape Ta
* Off CAPE TAT
.ters of rocks, called
THE FINCHAi
many islets and rod
;As a reference to th
is very dangerous ai
ater Sound, but fa
ipon the shelving e
Ifore dark.
Between the Fine
ilace, full of rocks ;
pad neither time noi
[approach of a vessel
lalmost innumerable
1 CAPE GLOUCl
|(.Sce Nos. 13, 14, 15
|but, on a nearer app
sof the Grafton Islan
'mile to the north-w
(close, beins steep to
Cape Gloucester i
ancliorages on this (
[risk, and in which a
|least prevalent of an'
* It seems probable
I «trait, opposite Playa F
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
623
r Loaf, isinht,
ty ofCapePiDj,
Istpn
Slokes'
(1, with good boMing in 18 or 20 fathoms, coarsfi c;invpl and sand, with patches of
k. It is exj)osed to southerly winds and to tiiose (Vom the west; therefore I should
survey,
adv
1 to anchor there. Hetweeii the. islands is a siiui; heiili for a small ves-
awards the rocj
Diego, in Stu
iblished hy Ci .
esty's survey;,,
f the wide ojii.
■jVaiijielists s!i .,
s, about lOji,,;
le height, tir;
Pillar caniiuU:
^ell to the nonj.
■ss the wind !i.i>
uce of thesirsi;
Judges. iii'„i.
uthward oi'l. ,
Ironi 1 lo ■.' II;,,
, Tf iutendin/'
Pillar. Its 1)1;..
i anchorage.
hey are not ui.;:
2 miles dislanc',
ge Rock<sliow
y breakeij>liijiv
es from tlieidii.i,
for au eiii!),i)t:
ered dilticult.A
under waltr. il
n ill the plain:
ghts, caik'dLi*
le coast, audra-
1 lee rocks, be;;
witliiii 4 milts
ng ill, avoid t:,
mail sbij) ciiiii:-
but the phut •
a streiiin wlini
ur small ves^t.^
fine white sam:.
lich iiiiglit. w
Vom Dislocaiiui
A rock) ulei
miles, then tber?
11 Barrister Ba)'
ssel.
It. (See yo. '■
art.
th side is a road
a vessel
^ secure, but dithcult of access. The Beagle lay at anchor there one week, in
■jiJ lathonis, good holding ground.
'J'lie eve must be the chief guide in entering most of these places. They are of one
description — inlets between high land, having, generally, deep wafer, with kelp buoying
the rock V places. Flaws of wind aiul violent uusts olflhe high land render the approach
t(i tln'iii'difficult, and, to a large ship, impracticable.
Tiicie are, however, anchorages on this coast fit for a fleet, which will be mentioned
ill rheir or<ler.
Six miles south of the Week Islands are the Landfall Islands, {Nos. 9, 10 and 11,) so
iMiMcd by ('apt. Cook, from seeing them first when he visited this coast.
('APK INMAN is a very remarkable head-land at their western extremity. (See
Ni>s. 7, r'and'J.)
IJehind the island, of which it fornisthemost conspicuous part. isLATlTl'DK BAY,
an anchorage decidedly good, though somewhat exposed to a swell thrown in by heavy
•north-west winds.
The Bengle rode out a heavy gale from that quarter, though having anchored too far
in, she was exposed to rollers. The plan shows the best anchorage, {and (lie sketch an-
nexed how lojifid it. : see No. 11.)
: Between the islands is a snug berth for a vessel not drawing more than 12 feet, in per-
fect security, smooth water; and a vessel should not moor in less than ten fathoms, as
lose to the west shore as possible, with an anchor to the eastward, in the event of a
ind blowing from that quarter. Water and wood are plentiful, as is the case in every
^Fiiegian harbor.
Behind, or to the eastward of the Landfall Islands, is OTWAY BAY, an extensive
space of water, surrounded by broken land, islets and rocks. Many of the latter are
scattered about, and render it unfit for any vessel. It is probable that passages lead
hence to the Straits of Magalhaens. as deep inlets run in that direction as far as the eye
Jean reach, from the Landfall Islands. They were not explored for want of time.*
Off CAPE IN MAN are several detached rocks, on which the sea breaks violently,
and gives them a formidable appearance. The outermost one is not two miles from the
^shore, and shows itself plainly.
f CAPE SCHETKY is a remarkable double-peaked height, at tl e south extremity of
.the Landfall Islands. Some rocks just awash lie off it, distant one mile. The truo
course along shore, after giving the Apostles a proper berth, is S. 29^ E. as far as the
latitude of Cape Tate, (No. 12,) the southern limit of Otway Bay.
Off CAPE TATE, which is rather high, and rounded at the summit, are several clus-
,ters of rocks, called the C^ollege Rocks. They are only seen when near the land.
. THE FINCHAM ISLANDS next are noticed in passing along shore. There are
many islets and rocks near, and very many scattered between the islands and Cape Tate.
As a reference to the chart will show, there is no good anchorage hereabout. The coast
is very dangerous and unfit to be approached. The Beagle tried to anchor in IJeep-
ivater Sound, but failing to find a proper depth of water, was obliged to drop her anchor
^upon the shelving end of a small island, being too far up the sound to get out again be-
'ffore dark.
Between the Fincham Islands and Cape Gloucester, is BRE A fvER BAY, a large wilcj
Iplace, full of rocks and breakers, and exposed to all the strength of the west winds. I
had neither time nor inclination to examine it, for I never saw a place more unfit for th&
approach of a vessel. The surrounding coast is broken into islands, islets, and rocks,.
ahuost innumerable.
CAPE GLOUCESTER is a very remarkable promontory, and cannot bo mistaken.
){See Nos. 13, 14, 1.5, 16 and 17.) At a distance it appears to be a high, detached island ;
but, on a nearer approach, a low neck of land is seen, which connects it with the largest
of the Grafton Islands. (No. 18.) A rock (on which the sea breaks) lies nearly one
<|mile to the north-west. There is no other danger. The cape may be passed quite
|close, beiiis: steep to.
I Cape Gloucester is a guide to EUSTON BAY, (Nos. 19, 20 and 21,) one of the best
,|anchorages on this coa.st, one which can be approached and left with any wind, witliout
|risk, and in which a fleet may lie in perfect security from all but the S. E. winds, the
Jleast prevalent of any on this coast.
* It seems probable that a communication may exist between this inlet and the Abra, in the
• etrait, opposite Playa Parda.
I
■i ' 1
624
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
THE GRAFTON ISLANDS extend about 20 miles in a S. E. direction from Cnp?
Gloucester. Jk-iwecn them are several nnchorages, but the best and easiest ofacce.sij
Elision J')ay.
Passing Cape Gloucester, you see a high isl.ind to the S. E., distant 7 miles. Tliiji
is I|)swi( 'i Tsland. (i\os. 19 (in(f 20.) lietween it and Cape Gloucester isaBav, :a
which are many rocks and breakers.
Rounding IPS WICMl ISLAND, you must give a good berth to the rocks under wj.
ter, which lie one mile from its S. E. extremity. The sea does not always break uinj
them, but it floes ijennrally. Their place in the chart may be depended upon. Tlifre
is no other hidden danger. Alter clearin.e; these rocks, pass close to Leading; Islnnd,
(ISvs. 1') tind '20,) and steer for the openint; of Laura ]}asin, which you will see nndrri
high-peaked monntain. (yos. 19, 20 aiit/ 21.) Choose your berth by the eye, if intem:.
ing to anchor in the bay, or work as tar up the passage to the basin as you think pioiiff,
then anchor and warp to the berth marked in the plan.
The Hea'^le worked up all the way against a fresh wind blowing directly out. Tlier?
is water for a frigate in the basin, bnt it is better suited to a small vessel. Large sIhn
should anchor in tiie bay; and as the bottom is even and good, and the bay capncin.,
exposed only to .'^. K. winds, which come on gradually and seldom blow hard, it ni,i\>
considered a fit place for ships of any size, or for a stjuadron. Wood and watenrf
jdentiful, and easy to be obtained. The depth of water in the bay varies from 5 to,
fathoms; the l)ottom generally fine speckled sand.
A large patch of kelp lies across the entrance of the harbor, but tliere is no (iiin;,;
benealh it, excei)t for a lineof-battle ship, as in one spot there are four fathoms oniv,
This kelp was very closely examined, and its safety satisfactorily proved.
There are other anchorages among these islands, but none fit or desirable lor a sliip
while so near Euston Bay.
HOPE HARBOR is one of those formerly used b^ sealing vessels.
L'nder ISABEFjLA ISLAND is an anchorage fit for a sealing'vessel, bnt nn nthpr
Rocks lie in the way to it, as the chart shows. The Beagle passed a night there, Ijutiic
by choice.
THE (JRAFTON ISLANDS are high, and the remarks on the general diaram
of the coast are applicable to theiu. {See No. 21.) Behind them lies a passage, ihrmi! ;
which a sealing vessel has passed. To the N. E. of it is a mass of land, broken «
islets and rocks.
Having ])asse(l Cape Gloucester, your attention is drawn to NOIR ISLAND, oIim.
derate heiglit, about GOO feet above the sea, and having a remarkable neck of landiofiie
S. W., ended by a rock like a steeple, or tower. {Sec Nos. 22, "2.3 and 24.) Oniimle
south of this ])oint is a sunken rock, over which the sea occasionally breaks. Twootkr
breakers are in the bight close to the point.
There is aii excellent roadstead under the east side of Noir Lsland. Several shipsmsy
lie there, secure from all winds between north and south by the west, over a clenr s^iniy
bottom. Wood and water jjlentiful, and easily obtained. There is a cove at tlie mjii'i,
part of the island, where boats would be perfectly safe in any weather, but the ciitmiirt
is too narrow for vessels of any kind.
The large space between Noir Lsland and the Agnes Islands is extremely danceraii
for shipping, being scattered with rocks, some just awash, many showing thcniselvcs se-
veral feet above, others under water. Still there is abundant room to go rounil tlip iv
and in perfect security ; therefore no ship need fear being hampered by an east wiiiil, ii
the event of anchoring in Noir Roads. A rock lies in the roads, and another, avei)
dangerous one, four miles to the eastward. They are exactly laid down in the chart.
Seven miles south of Noir Island are the Tower Rocks. {No, 23.) They are Ini
quite steep to, and exactly laid down in the chart. A ship may pass close to either m:^
of them.
Between Noir Island and Cape Schomberg, on London Island, lie many reefs, ant'.
great number of detached out-lying rocks, which render this part of the coast extrnmt
dangerous and unfit for vessels. No chart could guide them. They must trust to il)-
light and clear weather, with a good lookout, if necessary to enter or leave the Barbi
Channel, which opens into this bay.
The Agnes Islands, and those in tlieir neighborhood, do not require any descriplimi.
They are so fortified by outlying rocks as not to be fit places for the approach ol'aiiy
vessel.
Northward of them is Stokes Bay, and to the eastward a number of islands, between
which is the Barbara Channel.
No vessel ought to entangle herself in these labyrinths: if she does, sli must sail !)»
eye. Neither chart, directions, nor soundings, would be of much assistance, and la
thick weather, her situation would be most precarious.
i
Uetweeti Noir
every part of wh
theia the sea con
The Beagle p;
ands ; but 1 shot
ty of its ever beii
This part of tl
At the south
Tlie iSaxe Cobur
ter, ami very bad
Between Fury
nefs. (No. 20 h.
;! Kast and West I
jf by sealing vesseb
J^'our remarkal)
liiictly. The Kt
Peaks, {No. 2G a,
ami 27,) is high,
iiear Fury Island,
The situation o
accurate; but no
.so that she may s:
i At the north si(
I Cove. It is, how
I it nmst be reiiieinl
^ the cove, unless y
' hold you tempori
Tom's Harbor, fit
venture, anchored
There are soun
dom exceeding 00
, London Island
ja safe anchorage c
|j)'iint out its sl(uat
;aiids, and near the
I As there are no so
'into the passage, j
iharbor. The lioldi
off the high land i
lay here moored, d
raised outside by r
moving an -mchor.
The lee side of 1
in this country. >
land lies to the win
ferable, because tin
leeward of them is
Levanter.
Between and to
bers of islets and r(
islands, in which si
BRECKNOCK
4ing or leaving the 1
I CAPE DESOL
Mand; {No. 27,) it i
, Tlie next promo
|reagh; {No. 27,) i
flarge space of wate
and Whale-boat Si
Rocks and break
mall vessels inigh
jways be with much
jail object does not i
Under Cape Cas
large, but for small
wind, having three
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
G25
:tion from Cnnn
siest of accesMs
• 7 miles. Tim
ster IS a Bay, v,
rocks un<ler «j.
v;iys break iipi-i)
il upon. Tlii-
Le-.ulilij; |sl;iii,;,
will see utnlfri
ic eye, if intem;.
ou tliinU \mi\'t[.
:tly out. Til.'.
L'i. Lnrc;e si,:;<
i)!iy caiiaiiii,.,
I' hard, it nm *
(1 and water w
•ies from o to,,
iprc is no dai!;.;
iir fiuhoius uiilv,
1.
sirable for a sliip
sel, but tin mlip.
ilit there, biitii;
Ejeneral cliaracitr
passage, throufi
and, broken )!i:a
SLAND.nfiM.
ck of land tmiie
i 24.) Oneiiiilf.
aks. Two otiiir
evcral ships msy
era clear saiidv
ove at the soulii
but the entrauce
mely dancemiiv
g theniselves se-
go round the is!-
an east wind, n
another, aven
n in thecliari.
They are luji.
ose to either Mii'
nany reefs, nut'.
toast exlren>>
nst tnist tod >•
cave the Barbjn
aiiv descripli™'
ipproach of any
islands, between
si i must sail l)<
isistance, and ia
IJctween Noir and Kempe Islands, {No. 25,) is the Milky Way, a space of sea, in
seen '
riery part of which rocks
(lienithe sea continually breaks.
1 just awash with, or a few feet above the water. On
'Die Beagle passed in shore of them all, close to the Aj;nes, Konpe, and Fury Isl-
:k, nor is there
i»y 1
.'rubabili-
mds; but 1 shoulil not advise any vessel to loUow her trad
ty of its ever being mtempted.
This part of the coast only requires to be known to be the more avoided.
At the south side of Fury Island is Fury Harbor, a iiad place, unfit for any vessel.
The Saxe Coburg sealing schooner was lost in it in the year Id'J?. There is little shel
ter, and very bad ground.
Between Fury and London Islands is the entrance of the ]?arbaia and Coekburn Chan-
nels. (i\o. 20 II.) Rocks show themselves in every direction, — the two clusters called
Kast and West Furies being the most remarkable. They have been much freijucnted
l;y sealing vessels' boats, fur seal being numerous upon them at times.
Four remarkable mountains point out the entrance to the Barbara Channel very dis-
liuctly. The Kempe I'eaks, (No. 25,) are high and show three points. The Fury
J'ealis, (No. 26 a, No. and 27,) are high and divided. Mount Skyring, (No. 2() a, 26 h,
ami 27,) is high, and has a single peak. St. Paul's is similar to, and in one view, fro:ii
near Fury Island, ajjpears very like the dome of the cathedral wliosc name it bears.
The situation of the rocks off the channel's entrance, as laid down in the chart, is
aiccurate; but no vessel should attempt to pass them without daylight and clear weather,
so that she may sail more by a good eye at the mast-head, than by any chart.
At the north side of Fury Island, is a snug and perfectly safe anchorage, called North
Cove. It is, however, only (it for small vessels. When there, thi-y are in security ; but
' it must be remembered that there is no anchorage in the channel, nor until you get into
the cove, unless you close the weather shore, and lind a creek, in which the anchor will
' bold you temporarily. At the north side of Mount Skyring is another anchorage,
Tom's Harbor, lit for small vessels. The Adelaide, tender to His Majesty's sloop Ad-
venture, anchored in it when exjiloring these parts.
There are soundings over all the tract of sea between Noir and London Islands, sel-
dom exceeding 60 fathoms, and near the rocks diminishing to 20, 15, and 10.
, L(ni(lou Island is one of a large group called the Camden islands. At its east end is
|asafe anchorage called To-.vnshend Harbor. (No. 27.) The Horace Peaks, (No. 27,)
|j)oint out Its sifuation. .Some rocks on which the sea breaks violently, lie oil' the isl-
jaiids, and near ilie entrance of Pratt Passage. 'Jliey are exactly 1 lid down in the chart.
As there are no soundings in less than 50 fathoms after jiassing these rocks, and gcttinj;
into the passage, you must depend upon the wind lasting to carry you into or out of the
Jjarbor. The holding ground in it is excciient, and though you have tremendous stjualls
oil" the high land to the westward, there is no fear of an anchor starting. The Beagle
ilay here moored, during the worst weather she had on the coast. A very high sea was
■raised outside by a violent southerly gale, but she remained in perfect security without
moving an iiichor.
I The lee side of high land, as [ have elsewhere remarked, is not the best for anchorage
, in this country. When good holding can be found to windward of a height, and low
land lies to the windward of you, sufficient to break the sea, the anchoragf; is iiiucli jire-
ferable, because the wind is steady and docs not blow home to the heights. JJeing to
leeward of them is like being on the west side of (Gibraltar Rock when it blows a strong
Levanter.
Between and to the northward of these islands, are passages with deep water, num-
bers of islets and rocks, and anchorages opposite to nu)st of the valleys, or between the
f islands, in which small vessels could lie securely, if necessary.
, BRECKNOCK PASSA(}E is wide and clear of all danger. I should jirefer enter-
ling or leaving the Barbara Channel by this way, rather than by passing the l''ury Ro(!ks.
f CAPE DESOLATION, the south point of Basket Island, is a very remarkable head-
land; (No. 27,) it is rugged with many peaks.
The next promontory which is approached in passing ■>..• ig the coast, is Cajie Castle-
reagh ; (No. 27,) it is high and remarkable. Between this and Cape Desolation, is a
parge space of water, called Desolate Bay, leading to Courtenay Sound, Thieves Sound,
land Whale-boat Sound.
Rocks and breakers abound, and make these sounds quite unfit for shipping ; no doubt
mall vessels might, in clear weather, traverse any of these jiassages, but it would al-
Iways be with much risk, and should not be attempted without an adequate object. Such
i|an object does not now, nor is it likely to exist.
Under Capo Castlereagh is an excellent anchorage, called Stewart Harbor. It is not
large, but for small vessels is au exceedingly good place, being easy of access with any
wind, having three openings. A vessel may anchor in the entrance and narp in ; there
7!)
C26
BLUNT rf AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
is no where more than 1(> I'athoms, generally from G to li2. Wood and water, as in cvt/,,
Fu(;i;ian harltor, ait; pU'iitil'iil, and easily obtahied.
Two rocks lie nciuly in th" middle, jn.st awash at high water. The i)ian whows il,
|)laco exactly.
A rock, on which the sea breaks, iics one mile west ol' the niidi
ii'if
bor. There is no otln'r d;
jpenin;^ to the !
i;ir-
inkier.
Farther to the south-east are the (liibert Island.-, oil" which, ■■•< miles S. L!0^ E. |i
Cai)e Castler
(Mun,
are tlie Ni(du)lsi)i
IJetween the Stewart and Ciilljurf Islands, is Adventure Passage, an open space, wi;;
deep water, clear of (knis^ir.
At the noriheastern side of the eastern (Tdbert y\'.\ is Doris Cove, a side an( lion
for a small vessid. Tiie Deaude lay ti;ere nioori'd one week. Tiiere are no hiddrii d,,
rs herfaboiiis ; I hi; eye and tiie ciiari w'.W guide a vessel safely.
I say n;)thiii;: of the large sounds and numerous passages lying to the nortliuanLi
ire
th
esi! and the ,si(.'\va
rt lsi;ui(
l>ecau.
;e they are not likely to be again visited
The liundonilerry islands are ilie next, ilioy extend nearly to Christmas .Soun
'L'lvi:J5i.H l.^l.A-NiJ is a re:i
larUable lu
:lil, 1
lavuig iliree pmu
It IS visible Ir
U,i, I
consi(kMal)li; (lisiaiice; near il are some straggling rucks, shown in the (diart.
i\ine miles S. -^'-J ' il. iVom Tri.'ble Island, are the Phillips' Hocks. Tiiey are dan: ;.
ous, though above water, Ijccansc so far frcnu the hhore, and so low.
CUUK liAV is a largt; spiice between Cape Alikli.-xdij) and Waterman Isb,;.
J5rokcn land, islets a.:d bniakei.:, 'urroniid and make it unlit for lh(va!)[)roa< h of vi';.|.k
Its shores w-jre explored by the JJcagle's boats.
At the north-east is the entrance of tlie iJeagle (Jhannel, and a passage to Wh;iIc-bo;it
Sound, both unlit for sailing vessels, excepting Avilh a fair wind.
WATKILMAN JSIjANU (Ay. -Je,) is soon known by the remarkable heights ,uit<
south part. The s()uthermuo-.r wiis named by ('apt. I'ook, " York Minster," fininii>
fancied resendilancc i> that building, lie well describes it as a " wild looking ruck,
{No. 2S.)
Eight miles west of "York Minsler," and 5 from Point May, are the C;i|M!;.
Rocks, above water a!)out 20 feet. There are no other dangers to seaward of a line liuii
York Minster to tiie I'hillips" Jlocks.
Hauling round York Minster, you may enter Christmas Sound. There is nu liiilib
danger; the chart tmd plan are exact. Adventure Cove, (in which captain Cook an-
chored,) is the easiot of access, but it v.ill only hold one vessel.
M.VliCll liAR15(<il is large, witli good Indding ground; but there arc niamvicly
places; and one rock, under water, (see the plan,) having on it only one I'atlmm; lis
place is marked by very thick kelp. The IJeagle worked through the narrow j);i>m.c,
round Shag Island, from Adventure Cove, and worked into the imicrmost corner ut the
harbor without using a warp ; larger vessels would of course lind themselves inoiecoii-
fined.
1 do not think a vessel of more than iivehuiulred tons should attempt to enter Clin>i-
mas Sound.
The JJeaglc lay moored i.r this harbor all the month of March, in i)erfect sat'ety; Ijm
her chain cables bticanie entangled with the rocks, and were not hove in without iiuuli
dithculty and (hday.
PORT CliElvJvE is a bad place for any vessel, though (piite secure when in it; w-
cess is diflicult, and from its situation, it is exposed to very violent sijualls.
PlCKElvSvilLL COVE, (named by Cook,) as well as Port Clerke, is unworthy oi
notice as an anchorage.
Cook's des;niptiou of Ciiristmas Sound, is as accurate as his accounts of other jili-
ces. His "(ireat Dlack Rock" and "Little JJlaek Rock," show themselves as ynu in-
ter. Near York iMinster arc several rocks and islets, close to the eastward; one roiL
on which tlie sea breaks violently, lies v! miles E. 'JO^ S. from the south extreme of lb
3rmsler. You may pass it (juiti; close. ( )lf the " Great Black Rock," tiien; are twinif
three breakers, caused by rocks under water.
Jiut little current sets among these islands. To seaward of them, and near the lieaJ-
land, it sets as I before described.
The tides between Cape I'illar ;iii(l Cape Horn, are regular, as regards their risc;iiiil
fall, and tim;; of high water, but not so with respect to their vidocity and direction. It
ippeared to me that while the water was rising upon the shore, the tide, (m rati
ler I'll
lie nil
rent,) set along shore from the north-west towards the south-east, at the rate ol o
an hour, or nmre, according to tlit> wind.
During the six hoius of falliiu' water, or ebb tide, tiiere was little or no current settins
along s
ho re.
At Cape Pillar it is high water at one o'clock, on the days of full and change.
York Minster it is high water at U iu the afternoon,
.\t
At the interni
MUitli-enst.
Fnrdier eastv
Tlie rise III' 1 1
Eastward of
aiii'iiii,' tliein.
{),'( i'liint Xa:
Itic sntitli-rnst e
Thelldofmis
iivo inilcs distal
(ive miles in a ii
dreil feet above
.1 mountain, bn.
in a vessel, (or 1
Neither Tref
LE.Vl)IN(i
vend it are Dull
(of Mr. Weddi
n'liere may bi
some coves mi I
holding irround
CLEARI5<)'I
It is described ii
INDIAN CO
(i) be recommei
when there, hav
.lane lay at nncdi
coast with less t
INDIAN S(
of islands.
between Ca]ii
{No. 33) is a tra
ever, a lee shore
cliorage.
On Ilendersoi
From its summi
fifty miles distan
There is no hid
over a space of f
A ship may pr
rocks lie off the
Dnat Island has
on tlu^ point los
,, Their jdace oi
c .nnected by tri;
;. are snnndinsxs oi
"1 where Mr. Wedi
IJetween tlie 1
FALSE C;AI
or west it looks
coast.
"ORANGE :
False Cajie, as c
abreast of Point
if necessary, in g
at the north side
cove, with 18 fat
which you open 1
from I'oiiit Lnrt
SCHAPENH
water, rather to i
bottom, is seen a
There is anchor
recommend a veg
harbor, or ancho
ni.UNT's AMERICAN COAlrJT PILOT.
027
^■ater, as iiunt-iv
|)l:ui «Uows ilit^.
filing to the hiir.
S. ;]0^ E. li,,.;,
jpen space, wn;;
a safo aiK huri.;.
0 no lli(llK'l) (i;|;;.
;lu; iiurtliwani ,(•
iit(Ml.
lias Souiul.
: is visible iVui-n
chart.
."iii-y aro il;iii;;er-
'tUei'iiiaii l>I,iiiii,
ri)a( h of vetstk,
JO to \Vh;ile-bo;it
)le hciglus ,uii<
liiister," tri)mii>
1(1 looking ruck,"
arc the (.';i])'.|,,:.
ird ol' a liiieiru;!
lere is no liiiiiii'n
:;aptaiu (.'uo!; an.
are main 'ncLy
one fatlidm; lis
narrow |i:is>;\j.
ist cornel' ut iln'
selves niorctoii-
t to enter Cliviji-
rl'ect sali'ty; lir,
n witluiut null..
wlien ill it; ai-
nils.
', is umvortliyoi
iits ol" other pla-
lelvcs as you en-
ward ; one rod.
I cMrenie ol'il:'
' tiiere are twnur
(1 near tlic lieail-
Is tlieir riscaiii
ihI direction. 1'
e, (or ratlieri.1"-
rate ol' one mil';
o current setting
Old change. U
At lliB intrrnu'diatc places tlie time gradually rlian:,'rs IVoni I to \i, as you go to the
yoiith-rast.
{•"luili'M ca'^tv.ard Iii^li water is ptill later. At ( 'apo Horn it is at half past 3.
Tlir li^c 111 till'' vaiii's iVoni I to ."-^ feci. (( i-i iiiiii'il ill CK li plan.
Eastward of ( 'hrislmas Sonnfj lii; (he A\'(i(id Islaml- 'riicii- is no irood anchorage
aiii'iMi.' tlieni. J'assas;cs and iiroken land lie iichiiid lliciii to the northward.
Olf Point Nativity arc two islands and an outlying; rock. Hope Island is six miles to
Uie sontli-east of tliis jxiiiit.
Tlie llilpfonsus, a lari;e i.rronp of rocks and islets, n( \f claim attention. Tliey are thirty-
five miles distant from York .Alinster, and l)ear from tli:;t spot S. 4P E. T!icy extend
five miles in a north-west and south-east direction, arc v< i y narrow, and about one liun-
drcil feet above tlie sea. (Sec No, 2').) They appear to he the remains of tlie ridiije of
a moimlain. lirokeii throuijli in many places by tin; sea. You may jiass close by th<-'m
in a vessel, for there is no daii^er. Sealers have nnudi IVecpicnted them for fur seals.
Neifiier 'riefiisis Jhiy nor J'ons Sound afford amdiora^e.
LEAI)lN'(v iirEri,'(of Mr. Woddidl,) is a very remarkable doul)ie leaked bright; be-
voni! it are Duff's l>av, Morton and Henderson Islands, and the entrance of Indian Sound
(of Mr. Wed.lell).
There may be good anchorage between tliese islands. There was not time to examine
some coves on the cast sidt; of Morton Island, whose appeariuice promised shelter and
holdiii!,' ground.
CLEAIM)()TTOM V>\Y is at the norlli end of Morton Island, and a good anchorage.
It is d(>scribed in iMr. W'eddell's useful and interesting .lournal.
INDIAN COX'!''., in which also he anchored, and remained some time, is not a place
to be recommended to vessels. They must go far among the islands to reach it, and
when tliere, have a'bad rocky bottom, witli deep water, excepting one corner, where the
.lane lay at anchor with the jieaufoy. JMany better anchorages may be attained on this
<'oast with less trnulile.
INDIAN S((i ND is a large tract (d' water, extending to the north-west. It is full
of islands.
between ('ape Wcddel], at the east side id' Indian Sounti, and False (!ape Horn,
(.\o. 33) is a tract of broken land, which has not been ])ropcrly examined. It is, how-
ever, a leo shore during south-west and southerly winds, and therefore unfit for an-
chorage.
On Henderson island is a high sliarp-])ointed hill, wliicli is vis'ble at a gicat distance.
I'roin its summit the Diego Ramirez Islands {.Xos. 30, 31, i/nJ 3-?,) were seen, though
fifty miles distant. The hiuhest ])oint of these islands is about 150 feet above the sea.
Tlu're is no hidden danger near t'jem. They lie nearly north and south, and extend
over a sjiaee of liver miles.
A ship may pass between the northern cluster and tliat to the southward. Detached
rocks lie olf the southern island : all the outer ones are above water. The southern or
iioat Island has a cove at its north-east corner, in which boats may land ; there is water
on the point lose to the eastward of tliis landing-place.
Their jdaec on the eliart may be depended upon, because they we"c seen from, and
c nnected by triangulation to, Henderson and Ileriiiito Islands (Kater's Peak.) There
are soundings on e;ieh side, but too deep for iuicliorage, excepting to the south-east,
where Mr. Weddell lays down some soundings (in his chart.) which were not found.
Between the Diego Kamire/, and the Ihuanite Islands there is no danjzer of any kind.
FALSE CAPE HOUN is a very remarkable he;idl;ind. (.Y^ 33.) 'From the east
or west it looks like a large horn. It is a leading mark to tlie best anchorage on this
coast.
"ORANGE BAY." — To anchor in this bay yon must pass to the eastward of the
False Cajie, as close as you jilease. Steering N. E. flrnt ) for four miles will bring you
abreast of Point Lort; a liay two miles wid(> is then opened, in which you may anchor,
if necessary, in 8 or 10 fathoms, over a fine sandy bottom. Some rocks, above water, lie
at the north side. I'eyond the point which forms the north side of this bay, is a small
cove, with IH fathoms water in tlie middle ; beyond it is another cove, ratherlarger, after
which you open Schapenham l>ay (so called by"the Nassau Fleet). A north course (/rue)
from Point Lort will talio you abreast of Orange i'ay.
SCHAPENHAM BAY is one mile and a half wide; there is a small black rock, above
water, rather to the nm-thward of its middle. A great deal of kelp. Iviiig over a rocky
bottom, is seen at the head of the bay. and a large waterfall nr.uks the place distinctly".
There is anchorage in from 10 to 15 fathoms, near the south point; but I sliould not
recommend a vessel to use it, when by going I'urlhersho may get into an unexceptionable
harbor, or anchor off its entrance in'perfcct security.
028
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Tho Iniid boliiiKl tlioso coves that liavo been mentioned is high and rngj^ed : two sin-
jfular ])riil\s sliow thniisrlvos, wliich rescmhie gentry-boxes. Near tlie shore the land m
low, <(nn|)are<l with otlier ])arts of ihc coast, and has not the iron-bound forbiddinfj an-
pi'araiK r oC tiio more westerly sliorcs.
{''roni the h(!ij;lits sudden and very strong squalls blow during westerly winds. Beinc
g»'n< rally a weather shore, and regular soundings extending along it, there is no difliculty
in (dioosiiig or apjjroacliing an anchorage.
Oil" Orange ]>ay anchor soundings extend to two miles from the land. The oppnin;
of tho bay is three miles wide, and in that |)art are eighteen or twenty fathoms, over a fm,
speckled sand. Two islands, the larger having a smooth down-like a])pe:iraiicp, lie jj,
the middle; behind them is the harbor, a square mile of excellent anchorage, without j
single rock or shoal. In the two creeks at tlie south side is good ancli(u-age for .simili
vessels : the depth of the water varies gradually from 5 to 'JO fathoms. The bottDm
every where is a due speckled sand. Tho land hereabouts is low, comparatively speakii;,
and yoii arc not annoyed by the violent squalls which come from the heights in otlpr
places.
You may go close to the shore in every part, therefore no directions are necessar) in
])oint out the way to the best berth which is marked in the ])Um. Wood and water ore
))leiuil'iil ; the best watering place is in a small cove at the north side, called Water Con.
Tliis harbor is (it for a (Icet of line-of-battle ships, and could suiJjdy them withaw
quantity of wood and water.
Off tlie not ill point are several small islets, which nuist not be approached too closely;
they are, however, out of the way.
Six miles N. N. W. of the outer anchorage is a curious island, like a castle, or a pack
saddle.
Orange ]?ay is somewhat open to east winds, but they seldom blow strong, andHoiill
be fair for ships bound westward. No sea can be thrown in, because of the lleriiiitf
Islands.
There is no current here worthy of notice. The tide rises six feet: high water at
lialf-past tiiree.
Opposite to the land lying between New-Years and Tekeinika Sounds, called Ilanly
Peninsula, on the east side of which is Ora^ige Hay, are the Hermite Islands. (AW.IX,
33, and '.](t.) Their northern shores have not yet been examined. The southcriure
accurately laid down in the chart.
NAS.SAL' i>AY extends to the north and north-west into the Beagle Channd.-
There is nothing to lead a vessel into these openings, therefore a description of them
is not necessary. They may jirove useful for boats, and a glance at the chart will be of
more service, for their ])urpose, than any directions.
Nassau Hay is very accessible, and free from dangers. Anchorage may be fonmlon j^
each coast, and the only dangers are some rocks (or islets,) above water, shown in the
chart, and visible at a distance by daylight. The northern shore is low, particularly in-
wards (iuanaco Toint, where the coast first begins to show signs of ajjproaching K:i5t-
ern Patagonia, ( i.anging its rocky heights for level land and low earthy cliffs.
On the soutliei-nmost of the llermite Islands is Cape Horn. There is nothins very
stiiking in the ajipearancc of this promontory, as seen from a distance ; but, in ]);\sslni;
near, it is more remarkable, showing high black clili's towards the south : it is about five
hundred feet above the sea. (7V/r Skclchfs \t)S. .'S4, ;J."), anr/ 'M), are fuithfulh) (Irinnu)
No dangers exist to tVie southward, in ap|)roaching these i''iinds — they may bec'osed
without hesitation.
WEST CAPK is low. The land about St. Martin's Cove is high and rugged.-
Wollaston and Ilerschel Islands have also ridges of mountains. Kater's Peak, the
highest land (excepting Mount Hyde) on the islands, is seventeen hundred fejt above
the sea. ■
In the channel between False Cape Horn and the Hermite Islands, a current is foun^
setting into Nassau ]?ay, and rather towards the Hermite Islands, at the rate of two knols
an hour with the flood tide, and about half a knot with the ebb. As this current sets
rather towards West Cape, a good berth must be given to it in passing.
FRANKLIN SOUND is clear of obstruction, and has no other danger than tliose
\vhich are shown in the chart.
ill Nassau ]5ay the compasses are much affected ; they become very sluggish, and
might cause a serious error if not carefully attended to.f
*Bv baroniclriral iiionsiircnicnt, 1719 fret nitnve liit'li walcrmark. — [P. P. K.]
IThe niairnetie nrodlu was very rciiiarkalily niTcctcd in many parts of llic islands of the group, al
tbousdi I did not observe any great (litlercncc, when ;u a distance from tlie ronk of which tliov are
A strong curie
; tiirongb tlie Hay
* to tlie wind and t
£ of tide.
*' With the sket(
'^i Cove. Temporal
or under the sout
a dear sandy bott
shoals to IT) and
during a westerly
I'OKT MAX'
sipialls, (or willi-
i only two are fit fo
'^ tlioins water, ove
' (piires a little mo
The passages
AVhat few rocks I
Some rocks lie o
sideration.
One mile to tin
The sea always l>
Off the east poi
reit are several r(
or 40 ("eet above t
Off Cape Horn
Cape Pillar, it is
runs two knots ar
the westward at a
The Harnevelt
chart and sketch
refer also to the c
of the coast, from
The space bet\
' as I am aware, bu
; In Goeiee lloa
I bottom.
LENNOX IS
jabouts, may be a|
There are no si
■:, the land near s
At the east side
a cove in which tl
.( is quite secure, ai
s sel would not wis
] opening of the Ik
i profit by its straij
between ranges ol
3 and 4,000 feet a
ral has deep wate
A range of liig
' le Maire. Mout
I formed, or on board
t Port Maxwell, the c
i^to be so much infliK
') numerous crystals u
1 wards made by taki
Istatioiis around, at f
I to 127°. The bloc]
^ of the Geological Sf
No sensible diffe
hvhere the variation
twith astronomical b
[the variation in thai
* In beating up t
[Cape Horn, I foun(
[throughout being so
1 6,800 feet.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
629
K£;p(l : two sin-
lore the land is
I forbiililinjr aj,.
winds. Rcinj
D is no (lifliciiltv
The openin;
onis, over ;i fim
|)e;ir:\ncp, lie i„
i-iisie, without a
Ktragc for sinnji
. 'I'he bottom
lively speakiri?,
leights in oihfr
ire necessary Id
tl iuiii water nrt
t;(l Water C'ovf-.
them withaii\
hed too closelv;
;asth', or a pack
ronfi, and wouM
of tlie lleriiiiii'
: high water at
Is, called Ilanlv
inds. (.Vo.s. .'If
he southern are
gle ChanneL-
ription of them
chart will be (if
ay be fotimlon
>r, shown in the
particularly to-
)r()aching East-
ills.
is nothing very
but, in passins
it is about live
tlifidh/ dram.)
y may be c'osed
and rugged.—
ter's Peak, tlie
dred fe.'t abovf
current is foutid
ate of two knots
his current sets
iger than those
y slngj;ish, and
s of the gToi\]i, al-
»f which they are
A strong can
tiirou
ent set.s, at times, along the outer coast of the Ilermite Islands, nnil
„,. li the Hay of St. Francis. It varies from half a knot to two knots ;in hour, accorling
to tlitTwind and the time of tide; and, in the bay, changes its direction with the chang( •.
With the .sketch or chart, no one would require a direction to point out St. Martin'i )
Cove. Temporarv anchorage may be hail in the small bay leading to St. .loachim'.'* ('ove ,
or under the south head of St. Martin's Cove, wht'rc you find from 'JO to -Jo fatlioms, ove r
a dear sandy bottom. As you approach the western end of St. Martin's Cove the watt r
shoals to L') and 10 fathoms. It is jjerfectly secure, but visited by very violent squall s
I
uring a westerly wind.
I'OKT MAXWELl
L is a ]>erfectly secure anchorage, and iintrotibled by mour.iai n
sijnails, (or willi-waws.) but it is rather out of the way- Though t has four opening!*,
4 oidv two are fit for vessels — those to the north and east. The bcM berth ia it has !(> ft i-
^ tlio'ins water, over a clear sandy bottom. This harbor is decidedly good, though it r(;-
^ {|uires a little more time and trotible in the apiiroach.
The passages between these islands have deep water, and are (vhe from dangers.
■\Vhat few rocks there are, show themselves above water, or are thickly covered with kel] ).
Some rocks lie olV the south ciul of Chanticleer Island, too close to be of mucli con-
sideration.
One mile to the westward of Cape Horn there arc three rocks, generally above water.
The sea always breaks on them.
Off the east |)oint of Horn Island, are soii>^ small rocks and breakers. Ofl'Cape I>e-
reit arc several rocks, all above water ; and m.o miles to the S. K. is a cluster rising (iO
or 40 feet above the sea. «!.
Off Cape Horn the current is as strong as|jii any part of the coast. Between it and
Cape Pillar, it is by no means regular; soinetWies with a strong Aviiid and (lowing tide it
runs two knots an hour — at others it is hardly worth notice.* I never found it set to
the westward at any time of tide, or with at^y wind.
The Harnevelt islands {No. 28) lie 11 miles N. E. by E. from Cape Deceit. The
chart and sketch are a sufficient description. For the Evouts Isles, (Nn. 'AS,) I should
refer also to tlie chart and the accompanying view; and for the appearance of this part
of the coast, from Cape Horn to Cajie (iood Success, to the sketch. (No. ^7.)
t The space between Cape Deceit and New Island, is free from hiJden dangers, as far
I as I am aware, but it has not yet been sufficiently examined.
I In Goeree Koad there is very good anchorage in G or 7 fathoms water, over a sandy
* bottom.
' LENNOX ISLAND, as well as New Island, and indeed any part of the coast here-
;;j|abouts, may be apjuoached with confidence, using the lead and looking out for kelp.
' There are no shoals, but the water is not so deep as to tlie west of Cape Horn, neither
'.; the land near so high.
At the east side of Lennox Island is excellent andiorage. Siriall vessels may go into-
a cove in which tlie Heagle lay moored, but large ships must anchor in the load, which
J is quite secure, and sheltered from all but south-east winds, with which of course a ves-
5 sel would not wish to reiuain at anchor. To the north of Lennox Island is the eastern
; ojiening of the Beagle Channel. It is easy of access, but useless to a ship. Boats may
I profit by its straight course and smooth water. It runs 120 miles in nearly a direct line
• between ranges of liigh mountains covered always with snow. Thehighest are between
' 3 and 4,000 feet above the sea. This channel averages 1^, mile in width, and in gene-
1 ral has deep water ; but there are in it many islets, and rocks near them.
A range of high mountains runs uninterruptedly from the Barbara Cliannel to Strait
le Maire. Mount SarmientOj more than 5,000 feetf above tlie sea, is in this range^
■ ' 4~'- ] ^ ' ~ '
i formed, or on board the ship. On one occasion, on asccndins; the summit of Maxwcli Island, in
I Port Maxwell, the compass was placed fur convenience upon the rock, when the needle was found
I to be so much influenced by the ferruginous nature ol the rock, composed of Quartz with large and
numerous crystals of Hornblende, that its poles became exactly reversed. An experiment was after-
ivvards made by taking a set of bearings of a distant object, (to prevent an error of parallax,) at several
Sstatioris around, at fifty yirds from the above magnetic rork ; when the extreme diflcrencc aniounl ed
I to 127°. The block upor which the compass was placed in the first instance is now in the musei ini
-of the Geological Society.
No sensible difference, however, was found in the valley at the bottom of St. Martin's Cc.'e,
I where the variation of the compass was observed by several different instruments, and compared
pvith astronomical bearings, when the deviation did not amount to more than the usual amount of'
[the variation in that neighborhood.— [P. P. K.]
I * In beating up to the anchorage in St. Martin's Cove, at from 20 to GO miles to the eastward of
I Cape Horn, I found the current setting constantly at from half to one mile per hour, the v\'icd
[throughout being south-westerly.— [P. P. K.l
' 1 6,800 feet.
630
ULUNT S AMKRK'AN COAST PILOT.
Southwiml oC tlirso moniitMiM'' ii :i siirrpssinn of broken Innd, intnrsnctcd f)y ]y,m,j(]^
or IfirL'c sdiinils. A hoiif i-,\\\ l'o iVdiu the WiM^k Tsliinds to tlin ciistcrn cntnmcn oi I'll,,
lU'ii^lc ( 'lia.'iiicl, williout l)('iiii|; once <v\|ins('(| lo tiif oiilsiilc cniist, or ro llic sea «l|||||
is llicrc loiiNd.
Some lici;;lu.s on Now T.-;l;inil w(M-e noticed i)y Cook ; tliey wen; not, Iiowever, so vi,,.
ble from tlie west :is iVoi.i iIk; eiist side.
(iood teiii|)()r;irv anchor;r^e durlir,' westi>rly winils nniy l)e ohl.iined nnder Xcw Isj;,. ;
or near the sliore to tlie nortliwani; lot I know of no ijood liarhor between |{iciimi,i,;
Koad and (Jood Sueeess J5ny, in Stniit lo Maire.
Ilefrular sonndiiius are (hnnd iiMeaboiits, in ;dl directions, and tlie sliore is sleep ti,
Neitlier Aiiuirn^ i>ay, Spanianrs Ilarl)or, nor A'aleiityn's Hay, are fit lor more tim
temporary anclioraij;e diirint; nortin riy or westerly winds, 'i'liey are mncli exposcil in
the sontli. For that purpose llie chart is asMllicienl ;^nide.
The tide is felt strongly on this jiart of the coast, eausinji races and eddies np;ii';,>
projoetin^f points. Tn flie odio'i, the current (or tide) sets towards Strait le Maire, irvn
.1 to .'5 knots an hour, wlien the water is risina; on the shore, and the wind westn;,,
While the water is falling;, it runs with less strength, and with an easterly wind i-;: <
felt at all.
The JSell Mountain is remarkable : it is seen far at sea, from the north as well as from
the sontli. It is liiirh. afid in shape resembles a larjie bell.
CAPK rJOOD SrCCESS is hi^h and IjIuII'. {Xo. 40.) Some rocks lie closeioit,
above water.
The land from the 1>'-I! lArountain to (iood Success Bay is higher than that neiir I, .n.
nox and New Islands, it more resemliles Ae south-west coast.
Between Cape Horn and Staten IslainL regular soundings are found, between ."Kiml
70 fathoms, over a sandy bottom.
The siiundings in Strait Ic Maire are similar near their southern entrance. Townnl;
the north the soundings diminish: anil -J miles from Cape San Diego there are nntiinir.
than 30 fathoms water, over a rocky bottom. The strait is clear of all obstarlc*. i!,.
tide excepted. The land, from Cape Cood .'"uceess to jNIaurice Cove, is high and Imii,
with wat(!r for a ship as near to it as she ought to go.
Rather more than two miles north-<'ast of Cape (Iood Success is a ]irojectiiii.' lii'i'l-
land, wliicli, at (irsi;, appears to be the cape. Two rocky islets show themselvus dii.,>
to it, and from a distance appear like a shij) under sail.
Six miles from these rocks. N. E.I)y N., is the Bay of (!ood Success. (iVr;. Ih.) [|
is a good aiudiorage, ])er('e('tly safe, ];rovided that a vessel does not anchor tnn far in
towards tiie sandy beach at its head ; for, during south-east gales, a heavy swell w'nli
dangerous rollers sets right into tiie bay. The l)est berth is shown in the plan. Ijii^lns
of about 1,200 feet above the sea. surround the liay; therefore, with strong winds, it i<
subject to s(|ualls, Avhieh., during westerly gales, are very violent.
GOOD SUC('KSS P>\\ is an excellent anchorage for vessels of any si/c tostupin
to get wood or water, but it would not answer if a vessel refjuired to lie steady lor n-
pairs, as a swell fref|iu>iitiy sets in. It is (piite safe; but in the winter seasnn, wlnii
easterly winds are common, no vessel should anchor so near the head of the bay iisslic
might in summer.
The "Broad Koad." mentioned by Cook, is a good mark for the bay, if the inhciidfll
the land does not suriicienlly point out its situation. It is a barren strij) of land on tlv
height at the south side of th" hari)or. Maurice C'ove has no good anchorage; iti*
merely a rocky bight.
Hence to C;\\k .San Diego, the land is much lower, and the water near it less (locp,
CAPE S.VN 1)1 ECO is low. A shii) may go close to it. There are shoalersounii-
ings towards the east, for about two miles, than in other parts near here; for a loiU
ledge under water seems to ])roieet fVoni the ca{)e. On this ledge there are overtali-.
strong eddies, and a violent race of tide when the wind is op])osed to it.
Bevond Cape San T^iego the land suddeulv trends awav westward.
CAPE ST. VINCENT is a rocky point, 'with low binds above it.
]ietween this point and Cajie San Diego, is "Thetis Bay," a tolerable anchorage din-
ing west or soiuherly winds, thougli the i)ottom is rocky in many ])laccs. Between tln^
heads the tides run with great strength ; therefore a ship should anchor off a green bliili
at the west side, and within the line of the heads she will have from 6 to 12 fathoms ol
water, over a coarse sandy bottom, luixed with jiatehes of rock.
Beyond Cajie St. Vincent the land trends to the W. and N. W. Jt is rather low near
the sea, t)Ut in shore are many hills ])artially covered with wood.
Regular soundings ext^nrl to seaward Ibr many leagues ; and good anchorage maybe
found near the land, on any part of this coast, during westerly winds.
The tides in Strait le Maire areas regular as in any |)arl of the world. They will as-
sist a vessel materially in her jiassage, if taken at the right time.
•s wind. Tiie ebb i
ni<UIVT's AMHUICAN ('UAST I'lLOT.
G3L
I t'ddirs near 'i,;
lit It^ iM;iin',irr,.||
c witnl wcstPM,
iterly wind Imm
li as well as from
;ks He close to it,
;iii tliat lUMiJ/n-
1, i)t!tweeii;M;iiiil
raiicc. T-nnnl;
icre are luitiimr.
all <)i)stiicles, i!iP
is high and Ii4!,
])voi('('tiii};lip;i!l.
thciiisLdvc's tliw
s. (No.4i\] f(
anchor tnnlarin
lifavy swell w'nli
;(■ plan. llii;lits
itrong winds, it i<
ny size to stup in
IP. steady lorn'-
ter season, when
of the bay as she
, if tlie iulicndnl
rip of liuiil 1)11 till'
anchorage; iti<
par it Ir.xS dpcp.
re shoaior soiiini-
lore ; for a nub
lore are uverl'iiil-.
IS rather low near :|
nchorage maybe
i. They will iis-
As tlie strait is very wide, perfectly free from nl»sta(df.-; ol any kind, th(! sotiiidinns
ro'idar, with (lood Siieet.'ss liay eh).st! at hand, in ease ihr N>in<l or tide slioiild ehan^c,
vfss.'U may pii^.-. llnoii'^li without difficiiliy or ri-U.
When the lidt; opiiose.s tin* wind and swdl, there is a lica\y, and, lur small vessels, a
,l;iM"in)!is, race of tide olf Cape .Sati Dit'j^o, where, ,i • I ^^ald belore, tlien- is a shoal ledge,
;iii,rtli( tide runs very .strongly. We found it so in tlic Mtsi'^lu at even a neap (lood tule;
lint let ii lie nnnarked, that on another day, at the lop of the spriiii;s, Iji'in^ the day af-
ter lull moon, we pa>s>'d the '.ami' .-.poi al hall liouil, wiili pcrt'celly smooth \\ati'r.
Thiiifh the tiile was rnnnin^r tjucu or luur knots an lioiir roniid ihr eajie, and eddies
were sLM'n in every dinrelion, the vessel's steerage was Init little aifi'cled hy tliini.
It is lii^h water on ill'- sliorr in iJood Siiecess J5ay, and slaek water in tin' strait, nt 4
in llir alirriiiiiiii on liir lull and (diaii'^e days, and low water with slack tide in the offing,
at in in the nmriiiiig. The tide rises per|»<'iidiei!larly iVoni 0 to fS f-iT, according to the
At (Jape rillar, as 1 hefore said, the turn of tide is aljoiit I o'eloid^. Along the S. \V.
and S. K. coasts, the time gradually ini rea-rs to 4 in the artcriioon at this place.
l''roin < 'ape San Diego to tin' iioVlliw.ud, tiie lidi- si^ts norlli and west along the shore,
from one kiiol to llirie. 'L'he ebl) sets in a contrary direction, but not »o strongly.
In .Strait le .Maire the Hood tide runs fioiii two to four knots near the cape, and from
one to three in inid-chaunel, more or less, according to the siren-ih and direction ol the
wind. The ebb sets to the southward, about one knot an lnnir.'
At times, wiieii a strong llood tide is ojiposed by a northerly wind, there is an overfall
olf Cajie San Diego, like the " l>ores" on our own coast and (d-ewliere.
STATKN IS LAND is high, ami its niouutains an; geniMally covered with snow. Its
shores lying towards the strait are very bold and rugged. .No danger is near them, ex-
centim: strong eddies and races, caused by the tide near tin; headlands.
CAPK St. A.NTONV, MIDDLH (JAPH, AND (JAl'K SAX r.AllTlIOLO-
MHW, are high, blulf promontories. The soundings to the northward are very regu-
lar, anil give notice of your apjiroach to Staten Island, or the Strait Le Maire.
General Ohserval'mis upon the. appearance and rhanirler of llie Sea Count of Tierra (let.
Finuo; DcsLiiplluii of I'le Andiorugea ; and llciaarLs I'/ion, the Seasons, Wind and
IVcalher.
From Cape Pillar to Capo Horn, the coast of Tierra del I'liego is very irregular, ami
iimch brok(!ii ; being, in fact, composed of an immense number of islands. It is gene-
rally high, bold, and free from shoals or banks; but there are many ro(d<s nearly level
witli the surfiee of the water, distant -J, and even ;; miles from the nearest shore, which
make it very unsafe for a vessel to approach nearer than ."> miles, exci^jting in daylight
and clear weather. The coast varies in height from 3 to 1.300 feet above the sea. Fur-
ther in shore are ranges of mountains always covered with snow, whose height is from
:J to 4000 feet, and in one instance, (.Sarmiento,) .jOOO. '■■
With daylight and clear weather, a vessel may close the shore without risk, because
the water is invariably deep; and no rock is found which is not so marked by sea-weed,
(or kelp, as it is generally called,) that by a good look out at the mast-head, its situation
is as clearly seen as if it were buoyed. l>y avoitling kelp you are%ure of having suffi-
cient water for the largest ships, on any part of this coast. At the same time it must be
remembered that k(dp grows in some jilaces from a depth of oO fathoms, and that on
many parts of this coast you may pass through thick beds of sea-weed without having
less than G fathoms water; still it is always a sign of danger, and until the spot where il
grows has been carefully sounded, it is not safe to pass over it with a ship. As an in*
stance : — after sounding a large bed of this weed in one of the Ueagle's boats, and think-
ing it might be passed safely, a rock was fouiul, not mor(! than 4 feet in diameter, hav-
ing only one fathom water over it.
Viewing the coast at a distance, it appears high, rugged, covered with stmw, and con-
tinued— as if there were no islands. When near, you s('e many inlets which intersect
the land in every direction, and open into large gulls or sounds behind the seaward isl-
ands.
You now lose sight of the higher land, which is covered with snow throughout the
year, and lind the heights close to the sea thickly wooded towards the east, though bar-
* The flood tide sets through Strait Ic Mairc from the southward, and along the north and south
sides of Statcii Island from cast to west. It is high water, at full and change, at the anchorage
within the New Year's Isles, as well as on the cast side of Strait lo Mairc, at .') o'clock. The cur.
rent is very strong, ruiniing from 4 to G knots. Olf Capo St. John there is a tide race, which ex-
tends for some distunco olf the jioiut.— [!'. 1*. K.J
m'2
in.l'XT S AMKIUCAN COAST l»ILOT.
Ten on llioir wrsfj'in .sides, (Mviiit^ t(> tlio prnviiiling winils. TiicHO heights iiro sflii,,,,.
»;()V('if(l Willi sMdw, lirciiiisc (lie SIM wiiiils anil llu! ruin melt it Hiion iii'tcr it inlls. o,,
liotitc 111 till (MHii'iii v,illc),s, wiicii- llii! Liiiil . . lovorcd willi wmnl, anil walrr is ncph | i i
iiii; ilinvii iIh) laviiii'i, m>n(i anclniiiim' ism-iu'iaily round. Hut tliosr valleys an- pximuiiI
to treniLMidons si|nalls, whicli coini! iVoiii llin linnlits. The licsl ot' all anclioranis,,
llli." coast, is win-ii' yon liml i;i»od irionnd on tint western side ol' liiuli land, and air 1,1,
tecteil lioni llie sea liy low islaniU. It never Idows near so hard ai;ainsf lii;;li |;i,|,|
Ironi il, lint the sea on ilie we ither side, is of lourse too lorinidable, uidess .stiipiiiil „
1 nientioneii, liy islets.
Where the land isehielly eoni|iiised oC sandstone or slate, anehorai^Ts aliouiid ; w|i,.
uf granite, it is dil'lienlt to strdu- Noiiiidini^s.
riio dili'erenee lietween liie i^ranile and slate, or sandstone iiills, (an lie disiiiiirnni,,,,
Ijy till! Conner heiny; very barren and rnni^ed, and oC a /^rey or while appearance; wIktm,
ithe laller are j^eneraily eovered with vej;etation, are dark colored, and iiave siiiiiiiilfr
outlines. Tiu^se slatt; or sandslone hills slmw few peaks, and the oidy rnm^ed i,|;,,,^
arc those exposed to wind or sea.
.Souii(rnij;s extend to ;ii) miles (Voni the coast. IJelween 10 and '.'() miles iVoiii i;,
land, tin; depth of water varies iVom dit lo -JOI) I'alhoms, the liotlom almost every \v||i'r»
line while or speckled sand. Kroni 10 to 5 miles distant tin" averai;e depth is oO iatliiiii,.
it varies froni .'!0 to 100, and in soiiii! places no uroiind wiih ','0(1 lathonis of line. („>[
than .'j miles iVom the slmre the soniidiiius are very irremilar indeed, ijenerally li'ssi||,r
40 fathoms, hiii in somi; places dcepeniiii; snddeiily to lUOor more: in others u |„,
rises iic.irly lo, or aliove, the surface of the water.
.\fi(!r carryiri.; .')(), 40, ;!(), or -M) fathoms, towards an inlet which you arc dnsiriiin,i|
cnterim;, you will prol)aldy liiid the water deepen to dO or 100 fatlionis as soon ;is\„i|
enter the opening; : and in the lar^e soiinds, heiiind the seaward islands, the water is ihi,.
sideralily deeper than on the outside.
'J'iiere is a liaiik of soimdint^s alom; the wln)l'j coast, extendin;i; (Vom 'JO to .'id mil,,
from it, winch appears to have l)et!ii foriued by the continued action of tlie sea ii|iiiiiit
sin)re, wearing it away and t'orniini,' a bank with its sand.
IJetween the islands wlieris there is no swell or surf worth notice, the water is ijirr,
and the boltoiii very irreijiilar.
.V small ship may run ainim<j; the islands in many jjlaces, and iind i;ood anclior:i;'{'; Imt
.she runs into a labyrinth, from which her escape may be dilhcult, and, in thick \ve;iilw,
extremely dani;eri)ns. ,
Foi^s are extremely rare on this coast, but thick rainy weather and stronj^ winils|irc.
vail. The sun shows hinrsdf but little ; tlie sky, even in fine weather, jeini,' genimllj
overcast and cloudy. A clear day is a very rare occurrence.
Gales of wind succeed each other at short intervals and last several days. At times
the weather is fine and settled for a fi)rtni;,dit, but those times are i'ow.
Westerly winds prevail dnriim the jjreater part of the year. The east wind blows
chielly in the winter months, and at times very hard, but it seldoai blows in siiniiiu'r.
Winds from the eastern ipiarter invariably rise light, with hue weather; — they iiicriMsi'
gradually — the weather chansjes — and at times end in a determined heavy gale. Morp
frequently they rise to the strength of a treble-reefed topsail breeze, then die away gn-
dually, or shift to another (juarter.
From the north the wind always begins to blow moderately, but with thick weather
and more clouds than from the eastward, and it is generally accomiianied by small rain.
Increasing in strength, it draws to the westward gradually, and blows hardest between
north and north-west, with heavy clouds, thick weather, and much rain.
When the fury of the north-wester is expended, which varies from 12 to 50 hours, 01
even while it is blowing hard, the wind sometimes shifts suddenly into the .soutli-»e.i!
quarter, blowing harder than before. This wind soon drives away the clouds, and in;
,few hours you have (?lear weather, but with heavy squalls passing occasionally.
In the south-west quarter the wind hangs several days, (generally speaking,) blowing
strong, but moderating" towards its end, and granting two or tliree days of fine weather.
Northerly winds then begin again, generally, during the sumnni months; Imt all
manner of shifts and changes arc experienced from north to south l)y the west, ilurins
that season, which would hardly deserve the name of summer, weiu not thedaysso
much longer, and the weather a little warmer. Rain and wind prevail much more dur-
ing the long than the short days.
It should be remembered that bad weather never comes on suddenly, from the east-
ward, neither does a south-west or southerly gale shift suddenly to the northward. >?.
W. and southerly winds rise suddenly and violently, and must bo well considered iu
choosing anchorages, and preparing for shifts of wind at sea.
I The most ""''>'
I umiili-wesl, with a
I Mindi diirereiicc
jMiib's. 1 can mil
pifSDincicr (Adie's
not, of I'ourHC.ciir
liiuli niirthciii I, nil
west rnnainiiig tli<
Tlii're is a ronti
' frmii lliP north we.
their vicinity the c
J wards .Staten Islaii
(iMui'h has been
a serious obstacle
in existence.
I found it run a
west, — less, or ins(
larly near the proj
This current set'
pari of the roast.
There is, in fact
Heing high and bo
ami a bank of son
feared. Rocks, it
out of a ship's wa;
^ A line from hea
i the coast, will clea
and steep to.
(Tales of wind ft
foretold by heavy I
anil appearing very
Winds from the
flying clouds, witli
I height. The sun
i hours, or a day, be
|of the sun, althiu;
Jcausing his limbs
' light between N. P
are succeeded by
It may be as we
iCape Horn, as mu
^ round the cape in
tTlie equinoctial
of the world. Ih
eipiinoxes. In .\i
in the year. We?
Decend)er, .Tan
ynii liave some fin
rain, jjrevail Mirou
any part of the gli
Marcli, as I sail
violent winds, tho
I In April, May
r^ shorten, it is more
I during these nion
I with fine clear set
I few successive an
- altitudes, would h
alike, but easterly
The days being
tliough they are,
wind is much in t
I should say th
a passage from t
easy that it hardl
fer April, May ar
J
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
033
«'"" !irfi fip|,|,„„
K-r it (•,11s. Up
■•Iter iH .srph iiii.
I'7^ ••>•<' «'X|M,„.,|
ml. iiiid iirf|,r„
'^' lii:;li liiml,.
nir.ss Ht..|)|„.,|,,j
:ili()iiiii
«lipri'
lie fiisliiiiitiislifil
iraiicc; wlicn,,
liiivi' sinoiiiliff
y MiKfrud place,
' miles iVoiii!);.
ist t'vrrywlirr»
llsr)() illtllnil,.;
H ol' liiip. [,„„
tii'iiiily Icssiliij
in otlu'is a f,,,^
I iii(! fIfsiroiK,,!
1^ ■''oon as Villi
lit! wiitcr is Vim-
II "JO to .",1) mil,,
lie sen ii|i(ii| iii.
le water is dcpii
iuirlu»ra;'('; l,;it
11 tilick WIMllnT,
rotig winds pre-
iluys. At I
IlllfS
East wind blu*i
vs in suiniiicr.
; — they iiicriMv'
ivy !j;a!f. Mor^
;n die away gri-
ll thick weathei
[m1 by small rain-
lardest betwees
I to 50 hours, oi
the south-»es
clouds, and iii'
ionaily.
aking,) blowin;
of fine weather.
months; but ail
he west, durins
not the days so
luch more dur-
, from the east-
northward. S.
II considered iu
Thf most ii«iial wpntlier in thene latitudes, is a fresh wind lietween a north-west and
smiiliwiwi, with a cinudy overcast sky.
, Much diircreiice of opinion has prevailed as to the utility of a barometer in these lat-
inidns. 1 can only say, that di:riiij{ I'i iiionlhs constant inal of a baroiiiciir and syin-
pit'sijini'ter (Adie'-i,) I found their indications of the utmost value, 'i'luir variations dr»
ni)f, of ciiurse, correspond to ihose of inidille laliludes, liiit they correspund to those of
hi<'ii MDrtheni latitinle." in a remarkable manner, chunking fiouih for north, (cast and
I west rniiainin^ the same.)
I'lierc is a ciuitinual current settinp; along the south-west coast of Tierra del Fuego,
rtli west towards the south-east, as far as the Dieijo Kamire/, Islands. From
I from the no
their
vicinity the ciin
•nt taken a more easterly direction, settiiii; round Cape Horn tu-
h Staten Island, nd olf to seaward to the K. .S. K
I wan
iMiich has been said of tin- slren<;tli of this current, some persons .supiiosinR that it is
|a serious obstacle in passing to the westward of Cape Horn, whilt; others almost deny
t'lta existence.
I I found it run at the average rale of a mile an hour. Its strength is greater during
west, — less, or insensible, during easterly winds. It is strongest near the land, particu-
larly near the projecting capes or detached islamls.
'iMiis current sets rather from the land, w!iii;h diminishes the danger of approacliing this
part of the coast.
There is, in fact, much less risk in a|)proaching this coast than is generally supposed.
4 Being high and bold, without sand-banks or shoals, its position accurately determined,
and a bank of soundings extending 'JO or .10 miles froiti the shore, it cannot be much
feared. Rocks, it is true, abound near the land, but they are very near to the shore, and
out of a ship's way.
A line from headland to headland, (beginning from the outermost Apostle,) along
the coast, will clear all danger, excepting the Tower Rocks, which are high above water,
I and steep to.
I (tales of wind from the south" ard, and squalls from the south-west, are preceded and
foretold by heavy b.mks of large white clouds rising in those quarters, having hard edges,
and appearing very rounded and solid. {Cuinuloni.)
Winds from the northward and north-westward, are preceded and accompanied by low
flying clouds, with a thickly overcast sky, in which the clouds appear to be at a great
1 height. The sun shows dimly through them, and has a reddish appearance. For some
i hours, or a day, before a gale from the north or we^it, it is not [lossible to take an altitude
-of the sun, ahh;)ugh he is visii)|e : the ha/.iness of the afmosiihert- in the upper regions,
causing his limbs to be (piite indistinct. Sometimes, but very rarely, with the wind
light between N. N. W. and i\. N. K., you have a few days of beautiful weather. They
are succeeded by gales from the southward, with much rain.
It mav be as well to say a few worrls respecting the seasons in the neighborhood of
Cape Horn, as much question ha,s arisen respecting ;he propriety of making the passage
. round the cape in winter or in summer.
^ The equinoctial months are the worst in the year, generally speaking, as in most parts
I of the world. Heavy gales prevail at those limes, though not, perhaps, exactly at the
o(|uinoxes. In .\u'j;ust, .Se|)teml)er, October and November, you have the worst months
ill the year. Westerly winds, rain, snow, hail, and cold weather, then prevail.
I December, .Tanuary and February are the warmest iiionths: the days are l"ng, and
you have some fine weather; but westerly wintls, very strong gales at times, with much
rain, jirevail •hrnughout this season, which carries with it less of summer th.in in alinost
I any part of the globe.
• March, as I said, is stormy, and perhaps the worst month in the year wiili respect to
violent winds, though not so rainy as the summer months.
In April, May and .Tune, the finest weather is experienced ; and thougl/ the days
slmrten, it is more like summer than any other time of the year. Had weati.er is found
(luring these months, but not so much as at other times. Easterly winds are frefjuent,
with fine clear settled weather. During this period there is so';ie chance of obtaining a
few successive and corresponding observations. To try to rate chronometers by equal
I altitudes, would be a fruitless waste of time at other seasons. June and July are much
I alike, but easterly gales blow more during July.
I The days being so short, and the weather cold, make these months very unpleasant,
1 though they are, perhaps, the best for a ship making a passage to the westward, as the
I wind is much in the eastern quarter.
I should say that the summer months, December and January, are the best for making
a passage from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean, though that jiassage is so short and
■ easy that it hardly requires a choice of time. For going to the westward I should pre-
fer April, May and June.
80
HLIINT 8 AMKRICAN COART PILOT.
634
Lij?litnint5 ami thumlpr arc nrldoni known. Violent s(|iiall«i come from the «ouihjm|
■oiitli-weHi, giving wiiitiitii; of tlii'ir upproiu h l)y iiiuf«H«!t ul cljuii*. 'I'lit-y iire r«ii(|(i(j
mure rornii(l.il)lc liy itiiow, iiml liail of l.irj^K Hj/.e.
Soulh-wcat Coast, or IVcsUrn Putaffonin, from the Strait of Maf^alluteni to ('<(^,(
Tret Monlin.
Very small portions of the «ra const of this intervi.l were seen by us. The follosip.
descriptions lire prin( ipiilly nhsiractrd from the niiimiscripi journiiN of the line ('apii,
Stokes, Lieutenant (now Captain) .Sky ring, and Mr. Kirke, mate o( his iMajesty'tn,,.
veyinit sloop Deacle.
Between CAI'K VICTORY AND LORD NKI.SON STRAIT, the roa».t !,,»„
mtich brrfken, and intursccled by channels lcadiii>; bciwern the iHlands of (^iH-cnAv.
laido Archipeiano, on the sea ro:ist of whieh, to rile N. N. K. of Cape Victory, is ii,.
markable |)yramidal hill called Diana Peak, which, in clear weather, is visiMe to si ,
entering the strait. Cape lsal)el is a steep rocky promontory of grvM heiubt, u, ,
peaked summit. an<l a sharply serrated rid^e, having; two detached coliinmar niinv. ,
rock. Beadle Island, lyin^ olf it, is wall Hided; but although tolerably hi^h, in m,]
lower thnn the land of tjie cape.
CAFH .SANTA M'('IA, the westrnmiost jmint of (^ambridjje Island, ishij^hmj
precipitous, ('ape (ieor^^e, at the south cikJ, is lower, and lornis a liliilf |)oint.
THK .SANIU.ASCHANNKL, DUCK AM) Dl'NCAiN IlAKHOKS, THi: 1)1%
CAN ROCK, and other rocks oi\ fhent, are inserted from the oral information nfi.
masttr of ui American schooner, and, pr()bal)ly, are very incorrectly laid dowu. .^i;.
gusta Island and the White Horse were seen iiy Lieuten.int Skyrinj;.
CAPE SANTIACiO, tin* south end of iMadre de Dios Archipelago, is correctlt
placed, as are also the general direction of the coast to the northward, and the suniiiin
of the land that are particularized, viz., the openiiij:; of West Channel, April I'n,
Tower Rock, and the bay to the north (d'it, and Cape Three Points, wliidi is (Iipsod;
entrance of the Gulf of Trinidad. Opposite to the latter cape is Cape Priiiiero.y
south point of the niounlainous island of .Mount Corso, the land of which may liisrr:
in clear weather, from the southward, at the distance of ten leagues. It forms tlievisif »
northern termination of the coast line. Viewed when bearing north, or any point i(ii;(
westward of north, its summit makes like a round mount rising conspicuously iiburfihe
contiguous land, from which a siriall portion of low coast extends for two degrf^tf.
yond it to the westward. The b.nd of the northern shore of the gulf uj.nkes innwun-
tainous ridges and peaks, the average height of which Captain JStokes estimaleiliobe
about .3,nC0 feet.
CAPE THREE POINTS rises to a lofty rocky mountain, nearly 2,000 feet in;;!,,
the summit being of peaks and sharj) serrated ridges, with a detached mass of mrk oi
pyramidal form at the base, which shuts in with the land on the bearing of N. 5P E.
The variation here is 20'' ."JH'.
PORT HENRY is 3 miles to the N. E. of Cape Three Points. The shore l-ptweej
them is lined for nearly a league olf with rocks and islets, of which several scort'smljh
be counted in the space of a square mile; but they seem to be of bold approach, and do
dangers probably exist that are not above water, or are not shown by kelp.
Bound to Port Henry, a vessel sliould keep on the south side of the gulf, for th(
northern part is strewed with many rocks, and seemed to be exceedingly dangerous.
The soundings, also, are very irregular, and the bottom is foul and rocky.
The entrance of Port Henry will be easily distinguished by its sandy beach, since i;
is the first that is observed on the south shore on entering the gulf. It is a small, ligl::
colored beach, with a lowish sandy clifT at the back, and a round, rocky and woodf:
mount at its western end. The Seal Rocks, also in the ofTiiig, are a good mark. Tbi
bear N. 12° E.,5 miles from the west point of the entrance, which is about a mile wiJt,
The channel is bounded on each side by low rocks, lying otfhighish round rocky isb,
that may be approached within one and a half cable's length. The soundings are frora
20 to 2G fathoms, on a sandy bottom. Afterwards they decrease pretty gradually totlie
anchorage, which is in 9 and 10 fathoms.
When the sandy beach bears .S. V)° E., mag., the fair way of the entrance will be
quite o))en ; and a vessel may stand in, keeping the round mount at the western emloi
the sandy beach on the larboard bow, until nearly abreast of it. She may then [)roceed
up the harbor as high as convenient, and select her berth ; for the ground is quite clear
of danger to the line of rock weed, which skirts the shores and islets. The depth of
water is between 12 and 8 fathoms, and the bottom generally of sand and mud.
In turning in there are some patches of kelp on each side, growing upon rocks that
wash at high water, which must be avoided. Their positions are given in the plan.
JA« the squalls olf
,|ii|) to luichor as so
,;,.,» (if ilie water, m
, rin- |)l.iii will hhiiw
Wood.inil water lU
It IS high water .»
^ntrciin of the tide,
'hour. The observ,
western side ol tb'-
1 )• . Viiri.ilion ol i
'I'llK (H'LK Ol
It is nearly HI leai;ii
of .Maihe de Dios, i
them were visited
Maud is Port de lii
iVoiii Sarinienlo's ac
» >n llie northern
cominuiiicales with
North Arm, appeurt
Calhedral nidUiil is
• tain reseiiil)les the
Between the two op
idiorage in 1 1 fatlio
Utay.
\ The gulf meets t
/channel is contracle
\X.\\ isles and rocks ii
|nieiitioiied, the Van
I amis extending fi»r
Bay. On the sou'
particnlarized in tli
. reef otf its S. W. er
I The island of Mo
t more than a league
of the west coast of
the shore. There
^deepens immediatel
I PICTONOPK.>
them, of which Caj
miles otf the coast t
'' are more numerous
i are awash, and otlu
Dvnely Bav is very
'CAPE i)VER i
is a rocky islet, call
similarity '* to that
from the southernn
This rock is a gti
S.64°W., (S. W.
At one mile to tl
on approaching Po
by compass, you w
hand. Abreast of i
channel here is on
end of Breaksea Is
about one eighth o
from 6 to 8 fathom
case of being becal
BRKAKSEA I
which are three qii
4 fathoms, and gr
with 6 and 8 fatho:
of anchoring your
out by its vicinity
* There must be i
%
BUINT H AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
635
i«7 »re ri.|i(l„„j
aen» to Cujii
The follow.j
1 iMmjcsI J •»,„,.
lit" I'oam i<i 1,^
111 (^uecii ,v ..
''iciory, \<n,,.
visililc t(i J ,
t hrii;|it, «, ,
niniir riinixi, ,
' ''"«''. is III; 1
ifitl, i*t liislnr,;
r point.
S.THKDLV.
triiiiitioii III 1;.
id duwu. \i.
JO, is correcilt
lid the Hiiniiiii',
I'l. April I'm,
ich is I lie Hill",
)C Priiiifro, :!].
I'll m;iy hi' <.(,.
orms llievbji',
any point in fo
ously iiborpihe
two degrfejtf.
iiakes innioiin-
cstimatedtobe
!,000 fept lid
nass of rnck of
g of N. 5PE,
shore between
al scores mink
jproacli, aadiio
P-
e gulf, for till
gly d;ingcroui.
beach, since i;
IS a small, liet'
ky and vroodn
d mark. Tli"
iUt a mile wio't,
nd rocky isles,
dings are from
raduaily totlie
ritrance will
wpsfern end of
y then proce
d is quite clear
The depth of
mud.
pon rocks tliat
1 the plan-
All the nqnalln ofT the hi^h land are KoiiiotiinrH very dtrotij;, it will be adviRable for a
. hill III •iiiciior iiN Hoiui AH poKMdtle, itiiil wiir|) up lo her berth, wiiicli, Iroin the Htuoolh*
,,■>•* ol ill" »v;ilfr, III ty bi- rusdy ••dectcd. Any security may be iibtiiiiied in this harbor.
rill- pl.iii will show ili»t the baHui ut the bottom of the liurbor m u complete wet dock.
Wiioil .'iiid wiiif'r ill the saiidv be^iih arc in .ibiindiince.
it IS tii,i;li tNati'i at lull ami ('hani<;<> within a tew iiiinuteH of noon, and riiteN i'l feet. The
^Irl•.lln III the tide, however, is very itiionsidfralile, and never fxccciied lialf a mile an
hour. The obseivaliiins for latitude and lon^itudi-, iVe., were made on a ro':k ut tha
niMtern nide of the purl, marked A, in the plan- 'I'he lut. is 50° 00' IH", long. 76° 16'
ill'. Variation ol ihi- compass, '20' !')0'.
TIIK (il'LK OK TKLNIDAI) separates Wellington Island from Madrc de Dion.
It is nearly 1 0 leagues Utujr, and Irom 4 to H miles wide. Its south shore, or north eoust
[of .Maihe de Dios, is very much broken, and, probably, eoutains many ports. None of
llheiu were visited exeepting for niuht amiiorages. Under the east side of Division
iMand is Port ile la Mono, which, with Point Candelaria and I'ort Ki>sario, are inserted
lioin .Sariniento's account.
I )n the northern shore are two openini;-like channeU. The wesi(j*nmost probably
eomiimiiicates with the Kallos ('haiinel; the oiIht, Sarmiento's HmFf> de Norte, or
North Arm, appeared to trend under the bast! of the raojuje of mountains, amon|i; which
Caiheihal mount is a conspicuous (dijecf. Krom the entrance of the strait this moun-
tain resembles the spire and ro(d° of a church, and is visible for more than 'JO leagues,
lletween the two opening's is Neeshain Hay, in which the Adelaide 'ound a secure an-
(lioraiije in 11 fathoms. There is also good am horage for a small vessel in Windward
i'he culf meets the Wide (Channel at its junction with (Conception .Strait, where the
cliaiinel is contracted by an island to the wiiith ol ime mile and a lialf. 'J'here arc seve-
iral isles and roi:lis in the ijull', of which the most remarkable are the .Seal Koi ks, before
[nieiitioiied, the Van Isles, opposite the western channel, and a group of numerous isl-
ands extending for a league lo the southward of the land to the westward of Neeshain
I am
J 15a
I j.„y. On the south sliore are also several isles, but they are near the coast, and are
i particularized in the chart. The most remarkable is Middle Island, which, with the
^ reef o/F its S. W. end, is well described by Sarmiento.
I The island of Mount (Jorso is separated Irorii Cape Brcnton by Spartan Passage. For
I more than a league off Cape I'rimero are some extensive reels; indeed the whole line
I of the west coast of Madre de Uios is fronted liy rocks, some of which are 'J leagues from
I the shore. There are regular soundings in the entrance of the gulf, but the water
♦ deepens immediately after passing totlie eastward of Port Henry.
I PICTON OPKNINti and Dyiiely IJay very probably insulate the land that separates
Jthein, of wliich Cape Montague is the S. W. extreme. There are some rocks 8 or 10
miles olfthe coast to the southward ; but between Cape Montague and Cape Dyer they
' are more numerous. Several are from 8 lo 10 miles off the sliore. Many are dry, some
i are awash, and others show only by the breaking of the sea. The coast to the north of
Dvnely llav is very broken.
'CAPE i3YER is in lat. 48= 5' .55", long. 75° 34' 35". At 5 miles S. 86° W. from it
is a rocky islet, called by Bulkely and Cuimnings "The Rock of Dundee," from its
similarity " lo that island in the West Indies, but not so large. It lieth about 4 leagues*
from the southernmost point of land out at sea."
This rock is a good mark for Port Santa Barbara, from the entrance of which it bears
S. 64° W., (S. W. mag.) distant nine miles.
At one mile to the north of the rock, the depth is 23 fathoms, and gradually decreases
on approaching Port Santa Barbara; in steering for which, as soon as Cape Dyer bears S.
by compass, you will be close to some rocks, whicli you should keep on your larboard
hand. Abreast of this rock, one eighth of a mile olf, the depth will be 11 fathoms. The
channel here is one mile wide, but gradually narrows on approaching the south-west
end of Breaksea Island : and at Wreck Point, the west head of the port, the width is
about one eighth of a mile. There are several rocks in this passage, but as the depth is
from 6 to 8 fathoms, the anchor may be dropped, and the ship warped clear of them, ia
case of being becalmed : calms, however, are of rare occurrence here.
BREAKSEA ISLAND, more than two miles long, tronts the port, the heads of
which are three quarters of a mile apart. In the entrance of the port the depth is 3,j and
4 fathoms, and gradually decreases to 2^ fathoms, but at the bottom there is a basin
with 6 and 8 fathoms in it. This is a very good harbor, and from the rare opportunity
of anchoring your ship in a moderate depth, is of easy access. It is also readily made
out by its vicinity to the Dundee Rock, which serves to point out its position.
* There must be a mistake here : it should probably have been four miles.
636
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
The west head of the port is in latitude 48° 2' 15", and longitude 75° 29' 45" ; vnriniion
19° 10'. High water takes place at lull and change, at Oh. 28m. and rises three to fu^j
feet (neaps).
To the N. E. of Hreaksea Island are many straggling rocks. The 13paj;le ]uivii,T
entered the port by the western entrance, left it by threading the rocks to the eastward^
in doing which, she had not less than 9 fathoms.
Between the island and the mouth of the port, the depth is from C to 7 fathoms, good
ground, which renders the entrance and exit very easy.
FLINN SOUiND is a deep opening to the eastward of the port; that was not ex-
amined.
POINT BYNOE, with the group of islands — Bynoe Islands, extending for two miln
off it, is thv; west head of the Fallos Channel, which was explored for .'iO miles witlini
offering any interesting feature. Mr. Kirke, who examined it, describes it to be penediv
clear of rocks, and abounding in anchorages for small vessels, although the water is (if,;,',
The bottom is sandy. Its general width is one and a half to two miles. The wtsifm
side of the mouth is a ridge of mountains; the eastern side is much lower, and vnv
broken, and formed by many small islands. At five miles within it, on the west .side, ',
our Lady's Bay, of the old charts. Fallos Channel probably communicates with tl i >,.
by Dynely Bay and Picton Opening ; and, beyond the latter, was supposed to comiuw;.
cate with the Gulf of '^I'rinidad by the channel to the west of Neesham Bay.
THE CtUAIANECO ISLANDS, twenty miles in extent, are composed of two pi.
cipal islands, and many smaller islets — the westernmost is called Byron Isliuul, iuiil!i,H
easternmost Waaer Island. They are separated by Rundle Pass, called in Biilkth*
Narrative, The Lagoon ; on the west side, and at the north end of it, is Speedwell ]]l\,
RUNDLE PAS.S is oidy a } of a tnile wide, but perfectly clear in the whole exin,i
of its channel, excepting the northern entrance ; where it is guarded by many detacLw
rocks, which render the entrance to Sjteedwell Bay rather difficult.* Acconlii!;!
Byron's and Bulkely's Narratives, the situation of the wreck of the Wager is ntnru,
west end of the north side of Wager Island. Harvey Bay and Good Iliiihoi y.,
mentioned by Bulkely. Off the western end of Byron Island are some rocky isjei.s;;iti
its north coast is also very much strewed with them, even to a considerable distaiite
from the shore.
Tiie (icaianeco Islands are separated fio)n the land of Wellington Island by a clear,
but, in some parts, narrow ])iissage. At its S. W. end it is contracted by rocks to smile
and a half, and at the south end of Byron Island is scarcely a mile broad; a It (in a id-;,
however, it widens to two and a half and three miles.
The north point of Wellington Island is Cape San Roman. It is the west bead of
the Mesier Channel.
TARN BAY is about five leagues wide. The Ayautau Islands are four miles I'loui
the coast, but the interval is occuj)ied by several rocky reefs, between which Liputcniiii
Skyring thought there seemed to be a sufficiently clear passage. The pilot MihIimIc,
however, thought diUerently. The latter describes a small boat-liaven on tlie hiiiiei
island, but it is among rocks. Opposite to Ayautau is a port, called by the missionary
Voyagers, San Pcdicarpo ; which, from its exposure to the westward, I should not iliirik
very inviting. The ports of Tianitau and Asauriiuan are also mentioned by the mis-
fiionary priests, in their journals. The former is described to have many islands iiiiii
entrance, and to be to the northward of San Policarpo ; and the latter to be to the souii
of Tianitau, and opposite to Ayautau.
The Channel's Mouth of the old chart is laid down, as well as all this part of tt'
coast, from Machado's account, who describes the opening, and gives it lat. 47- 2;
which is only ,3 miles in error. We found it to extend in a S. E. direction for elevr.
miles, and then to divide into two arms, one trending 15 miles to the eastward, and th
other eleven miles south, where they terminate. They are merely de- •,) and niiiiin
arms of the sea, running between steep-sided ranges of mountains. Tiie shores ?ri
rocky, and aft'ord neither coves nor bights, nor even shelter for a boat, and arc pcrlecii)
unproductive; for no seals or birds were seen, and the shores were destitute event;
shell- fish.
CAPE MACHADO, in lat. 47° 27' 35", long. 74° 2C' 10", is the north head of tliis
opening. Two miles olf it are two rocks, which the pilot carefully and correctly de-
*Machado, the pilot who explored this coast in the year 1769, by order of the Governor of CK
loe, Don Carlos de Reranger, describes these islands at some length, but with a little confusion ct j
bearings. The north end of Kundle Pass, he calls the west end, and the south outlet, the enfiern
Byron's Island, he describes as being the southern island. I think his Port Ballenas must be or. j
the south side of Wager Island, for he describes it to be opposite to Cape Roman ; therefore, P^iri [
Eustaquio should be on the north coast, probably in tho strait witlrin San Pedro Island.
scribes, as he also (
\ ueaily a league, 'j
I the entrance, and c
three anchors dow:
Excepting this v
Cuptain Stokes deis
he says, "were in !
rifically violent. ./
rocky islets, upon \
: inevitably driven, il
Between Chanm
than !!.-iual. In lat,
j there was an :ippea
JKSUIT SOU.N
I terminates in two i
high mountains, ai
cier. The latter ei
one part of it is c
trance is a large isl
rendered still more
.Separated by Ch
Byron's Narrative.
and thi( kly woodei
are noticed and nai
cio Bay.
The former is b)
fathoms at eight hi
beach, backed by t
four or five miles, c
backed by mountai
strai','ht-stemme(l t
wiioded with .stuntc
tallv prevents boats
JGNACIO BVY
lined bv reefs extei
KELLY ilAKl
Penas, in the bay t
trends inwards in at
rugged and rocky,
and craggy ranges
miles asunder, and
magnetic bearing h
to 40 fathoms deep,
islets that fringe tli
remarkable muddie
proceeds only from
sive glacier that oci
the depth of water,
ner north point, anc
Then haul up alon:
you please to an ;
locked in with eacl
off the western end
so tenacious, that it
and water, however
I mountains, some fc
ravines — it is chill,
were the only livin:
For knowing Ke
ice, lying on tliti Ic
The water at the t
be fit for immediate
way Sound, will be
bearing W. 1° N.
59', and the Ion. 74
3i miles east south
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
G87
'45"; variMion
is three to louf
Braille having
o tlie eastward,
' fathoms, gooj
lat was not
n-
ig for two mh
I) iiiiles with,, J
t to be iieneiiii
e water isd^n'.
The wtjitrii
owcr, and Vfv
he west .side.'.
tes with il t;M
pti to coni!ijui;i.
;('(! ot two ]i,!,.
Islillui, illllli:.:
erl ill IJniLtn*
Speedwi II i;,'i.
le whole mm
many (IctiirLf;
Accoi(!iii:i
af;er is nt.-ini.
lod Harbnr a,
[)C'ky isipis;ar.i
erabie dis'aiii'
land liy a clf-r,
( rocks los/iiiie
ad ; afKriunds,
he west bead of
Dur miles from
lich Lieiitcii,:i;i
pilot i\hidi;Vo.
1 on the liir;ti
tlie iiii'isiui'.Hv
hoiiid not iliiri!,
ned li_v tlie iiii>-
ny islands inr,;
be to the soull
this part of ll'
s it lat. 47= 25
ction for elevt:
stward, and ti:^
" M and mini*
File shores m
nd arc perfecih
estitute eveiu;
rtli head of tliii
J correctly de^
Governor of Ch'
little confusion c:
utlet, the enWTi
eiins nnist bfor.
1 ; tiiercfoie, Fun
land.
I
scribes, as hc nlso does the rocks and breakers which extend oft' the south head for
iiiMilv a league. The Ueagle twice occupied an anchorage under the Ha/.ard Isles, in
the entrance, and on both occasions was detained many days Irom bad weather, with
tliiee anchors down.
Kxccptiiii^ this very bad and exposed anchorage, there exists none in the channel. —
(Jnptain Stokes describes it to be an extremely perilous anchorage. "The anchors,"
iio savs, "were in '-'3 fathoms, on a bad bottom, sand and coral. The siiualls were tei-
riiically violent. Astern, at the distance of half a ( ablc's length, were rocks, and low
rocky isl^"'*. upon which a furious surf raged, and on which tlie ship must have been
inevitai)ly driven, if the anchors, of which three were down, had started."
Between Channels Mouth and Jesuit Sound, the coast is more unbroken and low
than tvsual. In lat. 47^ 17' are some reefs which project two miles to sea ; behind them
there was an appearancte of a bight, which may afford anchorage.
JKSUIT SOUND, like Channels Mouth, is quite unfit to be entered by any ship. It
terminates in two inlets, IJenito and .Iiilian. The former is bounded on either siile by
high mountains, and terminates in low land, with a rivulet that orginates in a large gla-
cier. The latter ends in high mountainous land, with streains of watipr between the hills :
one part of it is cliffy ; and it has, on the S. W. side, a long sandy beach. In its en-
trance is a large island, making the passages on each side very narrow, and they are
rendered still more so by rocks and islets.
Separated by Chea]) Channel from the main is Xavier Island, the Montrose Island of
IJvron's Narrative. It is eleven miles and a half long, and four wide, and is very high
aiid tliii kly wooded with lofty trees. The only two anclioraces which the island affords
are noticed and named by Machado, the northern one. Port Xavier, the southern Igna-
cio May.
'J'he former is by much the better place, being secure from prevailing winds, with 17
■■ fathoms at eight huiKlied yards from the shore. The south end of the bay is a sandy
beach, backed by tall beach trees. The shore to the south of Xavier Bay, for the first
four or five miles, consists of a high, steep clay clill", with a narrow stony beach at its base,
backed by mountains of twelve or fourteen hundred feet high, and covered by large and
strai<:lit-steiiimed trees. 'J'lie remainder of the coast, to Ignacio Bay, is low, and slightly
wooded with stuntcil trees; and its wliole extent is lashed with a furious surf, that to-
> tally prevents boats from landing.
I ItiNAClO BVY affords anchorage in 9 fathoms. The western coast of the Island is
I lined by reefs extending two miles off, upon which the sea bri-aks high.
I KKLLV II.\l\l)OU is situated at the bottom of the north-east corner of the Gulf of
S Penas, in the bay toriiied between the land of St. Estevan (xulf and Xavier Island. It
trends inwards in an easterly direction for eight miles. The land about the harbor is high,
rugged and rocky, but by no means destitute of verdure. In the interior are lofty-peaked
and craggy ranges of snow covered mountains. The points of the entrances are two
miles asunder, and are thickly wooded, and low, compared with the adjacent land ; their
magnetic bearing is N. 48° E. and S. 48^ W. Between them is a channel of from 35
to 40 fathoms deep, over a mud bottom, without danger, to a cable's length of the rocky
islets that fringe the shore for a quarter of a mile off. On approaching the harbor the
remarkable muddied appearance of the water is rather startling; but the discoloration
proceeds only from the freshes of the river, and the streams produced from a very exten-
sive glacier that occupies many miles of the country to the north. The plan will show
the depth of water. The course in is E. S. E. by compass, until in a line between the in-
ner north point, and an inlet on the south shore that is fronted by five or six wooded islets.
Then haul up along the larboard side of the harbor, as close to the shore and as far as
you please to an anchorige. The best berth is when the two points of entrance are
locked in with each other, and within a cable and a half of the sandy sjiit that extends
off the western end of a high and thickly wooded island. The ground is excellent, and
so tenacious, that it was with difficulty that the Beagle lifted her anchors. Shelter, wood
and water, however, are the only advantages offered by the harbor. Environed by lofty
mountains, some fourteen and eighteen hundred feet high, and ice-filled valleys and
ravines — it is chill, damp and dreary. A few birds, and a small number of hair seals,
were the only living animals seen by us. Not a trace of human beings was observed.
For knowing Kelly Harbor the glacier is a capital leading-mark. It is a large field of
ice, lying on the low part of the coast, about 2 miles to the northward of the harbor.
The water at the anchorage, at half tide, was perfectly fresh, but was too muddietl to
be fit for immediate use. When in the fair way of the harbor, the Sugar-loaf in Hollo-
way Sound, will be seen just on with the end of the land, to the north of Purcell Island,
bearing W. 1° N. by compass. The latitude of the north point of the harbor is 46°
59', and the Ion. 74° 5' 30" ; the variation about 20°. The mountain on the south shore,
^ miles east southerly from the north point, is 1,540 feet high.
63S
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ST. ESTEVAN GULF.— The entrance of this gulf, which is situalerlg miltH north
of the N. E. end of Xavier Island, is 4 miles wide. The land on the western snjc
,Forelius Peninsula, is a narrow tongue of land nearly 6 leagues long. The eastern snip
of the gulf is a long sandy beach, curving round to the N. W. towards the entrance of
the River San Tadeo, between which and Cirujano Island, forming the south, (or lailm
the west,) |)oint of entrance, the width is less than 5 miles; and at a league rurtlierui
the westward, it is not more than 3i miles across. Here, in the centre, there is a small
islet, called Dead Tree Island.
Beyond this is St. Quentin Sound, 10 miles deep; and, at its N. W. corner, Ahiunate
Inlet extends in for about 8 miles. St. Quentin's Sound tern)inateB in continuous lo«
land, with patches of sandy beach, over which, among other lofty mountains, the Uoii,.
of St. Paul's is seen. The shores are thickly wooded with shapely and well-grown tr(e>:
the land near the beach, for the most part, is low, rising into mountainous peaks; a iitij
distance in the interior of which, some are 1,500 feet high, but they are not craggy.
ST. ESTEVAN GULF is one of the best harbors of the coast, being ea.sy oi a.
cess, and with moderate depth of water all over; with good holding ground, and a citjn
bottom. The best anchorage is at about 2 miles above Dead Tree Island, in from 4!j
6 fathoms, sandy bottom. This will be at 2 miles from either shore, but the berijin
perfectly land-locked; and, if necessary, anchorage may be taken up much nearerto,;,
CIRUJANO ISLAND, above mentioned, is tliat on which the surgeon ot the Wi-
ger was buried.* The missionary priests describe a pt)rt on the island, called Sini 'Ju-
mas. The island is separated from the extremity of Forelius Peninsula by a strait, one
mile to three quarters of a mile wide.
The mouth of the RIVER SAN TADEO, is easily distinguished on entering ii«
gull, by the sand hills on each side of its entrance, and the bearing of the east treniiii
Cirujano Island, S. W. ^ S. (by compass, S. by \V. j W.) A sandy beach extends lu
the east and west of it for many miles; the land is low and marshy, and covered wuli
stumps of dead trees. It has a bar entrance, much of which must be nearly dr) a;
spring tides. A heavy swell breaks upon it for its whole length, so that no oijeningtr
swatch-way is left, and excepting in very fine weather, it is very hazardous to cross, .\i
the mou.h the breadth is not more than a quarter of a mile : but, within the entriniceit
opens to a basin of some extent; and at 3 miles up it is 300 yards wide, after wiiicli i;
gradually narrows. Nine miles from the entrance, the stream is divided into two iiiiiis,
the Northern or Black River, takes a northerly, and the other an easterly direction. Tlie
former is a strong and rapid stream, quite uninfluenced by tide, which, however, evtc/idj
for a short distance up the eastern arm; after which, the current down becomes stailu-
ally as strong as in the Black River, The banks of the latter are comparatively bamn
to those of the Black River, where the wood is very thick. The courses of both arms
are very tortuous, and the bed of the river so choked with trunks and branches of trees,
as to jwevent its complete exploration, as well as the detection of the Desecho, the place
where the Indians carry their canoes across the Isthmus of Ofqui.
PUPiCELL LSLAND is separated from the land of Forelius Peninsula, by agood
channel *2 miles wide; it is moderately high and thickly wooded, and about 6 niilesin
circuit. About mid-channel, and nearly abreast of the east end of the island, is » roct
only a few feet above the water. The channel to the south of the rock, is from 18 to 22
fathoms deep, and the bottom sandy.
Upon the peninsula, opposite to the west end of Purcell Island, is an isthmus of low,
sandy land, scarcely a mile wide ; the one over which, I think it may be inferred from
the narrative, that the canoes in which Byron and his companions were embarked, wer'
carried. One day's journey by land to the west of this ithmus, Byron describes a river,
up which the Indian guides attempted to take the Wager's barge. This river, if it ex-
ists, probably falls intc Bad Bay.
The Bea'zle anchored in BAD BAY after dark, in 8 fathoms, sandy bottom, and lei:
it at 9 o'clock the following morning. Of this place, captain Stokes remarks ;—".\i
daylight we found that we had anchored in a small bay about half a mile off a shinjle
beach, on wliich, as well as on every part of the shore, a furious surf raged that etlec;-
ually prevented our landing to get chronometer sights. The mouth of this bay is ^
50° E., mag., 9 leagues from Cape Tres Montes, which, in clear weather, may be sfi
from its mouth. Like all this shore of the gulf, it is completely open to the S. W.a;iii
gul
* Of this circumstance I was informed by Pedro Osorio, an old soldier, whom I saw at Cliilot,
who formed one of the party of the missionary voyages. I asked him why it was called El Ciru-
jano, to which he replied: "Porqiie alii murio el cirujano del Wage " (Because the Sunjeonol
the Wager died there.; Pedro Csorio knew Byron's party well .though it was 68 years since
thej visited the island. — See also Byron's Narrative, p. 147.
a heavy rolling sea
south-east.
To the weslv/arc
give bight, 16 niile:
ands, called Marir
is very conspicuou
main, ol miles N.
called the Dome o
NEUMAN IN
land, where it tertr
is the resort of larji
about 5 miles in ex
S. W. and reachii
isthmus of low an
beach, from whenc
ner Sound, off the
up by the Marine
water. On the so
Port Otwav, an inl
The entrance of
or 15 miles distant
first opening after |
is the Logan Roc
bears. It is broad
connected to the r
the west shore is
Here anchorage n
the port affords. '
age all over it, but
CAPE TRES
the height of 2,0l
south extremity ol
To the northwa
tend off it for half
POINT MITF
46° 43'.
Of the WIND
: gonia, described ir
I N. W.; butif it t
round to the west'
These westerly ga
; the weather, if the
round to the N. V
doubtless, be wors
with fine clear wea
a quick succession
Should a vessel
visable for her to n
to the westward tl
chorages of Port
has very much red
I always be preferabl
T The barometer I
5 is at its minimum 1
The temperature :
i Port Otway, in the
I of .Tune, were 51°
i Of the TIDKS
I an hour on either i
more than 6 feet.
The variation of
Henry, 21°; at Pc
* It was here that
voyage, after the wr<
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
639
rner, Altiimate
ontiiiuouslo*
lins, tlie JJoiii-
ll-grown tree,;
peaks; h liiiie
ot craggy,
ng easy ol s .
nd, and a eltjn
d, in fro 111 4!.j
at the beriliH
eh nearer ti),;,
3n ot' the Wj.
railed SuiiV
by a strait, oce
n entering ii,«
B east trend ii|
ich extends iij
1 covered Huii
: nearly ilrj ai
no opening 01
3 to cross. Ai
the entrance II
after wliicli i:
into two iiniis;
irection. Tiie
wcver, e.Mwids
econies aradu-
ratively bamn
of butli uriiij
iches of iretj,
chi), the place
iula, by a good
out 6 iiiilesin
land, is s rock
i from 18 to 22
ithmus of low,
inferred from
nibarked, wer*
scribes a river,
river, if it ex-
ottom, and Ifi:
•marks :— "Ai
\ off a sliindt
ed that etiec;-
this bay is N.
r, may be sfia
the S. W. asd
4
I saw at Cliiloe,
called ElCirii-
! the Sur>,'eon ot
68 years since
a heavy rolling sea. About 9 A. M. we left it, and proceeded to trace the coast to the
gouth-cast.
To the wesiv/ard, between Bad Bay and the land of Cape Tres iVIontes, is an exten-
sive bight, 16 miles wide and about 12 deep. The centre is occupied by a ^roup of isl-
ands, called Marine Islands,* upon which the Sugar-loaf, a mountain 1,840 feet high,
is very conspicuous; it was seen from the Wager the day before her wreck. Upon the
main, o'l miles N. 15° E. from the Su:;ar-loaf, is another equally remarkable mountain,
called the Dome of St. Paul's, 2,^84 leet high.
NEUMAN INLET, at the N. E. corner of this gulf, extends for 17 miles into the
land, where it terminates ; but it is of no use, as the water is too deep for anchorage. It
is the resort of large numbers of hair seal. At the north-west corner is Hoppner Sound,
about 5 miles in extent. At its south-west end is a deep inlet, extending 7 miles to the
S. VV. and reaching to within 2 miles of the sea coast, from which it is separated by aa
isthmus of low and thickly-wooded land. Captain Stokes walked across it to the sea-
beach, from whence he saw Cape Raper. The Beagle anchored at the bottom of Hopp-
ner Sound, off the luouth of the inlet. The mouth of the sound is very much blocked
up by the Marine Islands ; but the southern channel, although narrow, has plenty of
water. On the south-west side of the Marine Islands is Holloway Sound, in which is
Port Otway, an inlet extending for 5 miles into the land, in a S. W. direction.
The entrance of PORT OTWAY is on the west side of Holloway Sound, about 14
or 15 miles distant from Cape Tres Montcs, and may be readily known by its being the
first opening after passing the cape. Olf the mouth are the Entrance Isles, among which
is the Logan Rock, having a strong resemblance to the celebrated rock whose name it
bears. It is broad and flat at the top, and decreases to its base, which is very small, and
connected to the rock on which it seems to rest. Immediately within the entrance on
the west shore is a sandy beach, over which a rivulet discharges itself into the bay.
Here anchorage may be had in 9 or 10 fathoms. It is by far the most convenient one
the port affords. The plan will show the particulars of the inlet, which contains anchor-
age all over it, but the depth is generally inconveniently great, from 20 to 30 fathoms.
CAPE TRES MONTES is a bold and remarkable headland, rising from the sea to
the height of 2,000 feet. It lies in lat. 46° 58' 57", and Ion. 75'' 27' 30", and is the
south extremity of the Peninsula of Tres Montes.
To the northward of it is Cape Raper, in lat. 46*^ 48' 25". Rocks and breakers ex-
tend off it for half a league to seaward.
POINT MITFORD REES, the northernmost land seen by the Beagle, is in lat.
46° 43'.
Of the \VIND AND WEATHER.— The climate of the coast of Western Pata-
gonia, described in this section, is cold, damp, and tempestuous. The reigning wind is
N. W. ; but if it blows hard from that quarter, the wind is very liable to shift suddenly
round to the westward and blow a heavy gale, which raises a mountainous cross sea.
These westerly gales do not generally last long, but veer round to the southward, when
the weather, if the barometer rises, will probably clear up. Should they, however, back
round to the N. W. again, and the barometer keep low, or oscillate, the weather will,
doubtless, be worse. Easterly winds are of rare occurrence ; tliey are accompanied
with fine clear weather; but westerly winds bring with them a constant fall of rain, and
a quick succession of hard squalls of wind and hail.
Should a vessel be near the coast during one of these northerly gales, it would be ad-
visable for her to make an offing as quickly as possible, to guard against the sudden shift
to the westward that is almost certain to ensue. The discovery, however, of the an-
chorages of Port Henry, Port Santa Barbara, Port Otway, and St. Qiientin's Sound,
has very much reduced the dangers of the lee shore ; and a refuge in either of them will
always be preferable to passing a night on this coast in a gale of wind.
The barometer falls with northerly and westerly winds, but rises with southerly. It
is at its minimum height with N. W. winds, and at its maximum when the wind is S, E.
The temperature is rarely so low as 40 degrees, excepting in the winter months. At
Port Otway, in the (lulf of Penas, the maximum and minimum for 19 days, in the month
of .Tune, were 51° and 27^°.
Of the TIDES.— lli^h water, at most parts of this coast, takes place within half
an hour on either side of noon. The stream is inconsiderable, and the rise and fall rarely
more than 6 feet.
The variation of the compass, at the western entrance of the strait, is 23?" ; at Port
Henry, 21° ; at Port Santa Barbara, 19° ; Xavier Island, 20° ; and at Port Otway, 20^°.
* It was here that four Marines voluntarily remained on ehore during Byron's perilous boat
voyage, after the wreck of the Wager. Byron's Narrative, p. g5,
640
BLUJVT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Of die Interior Sounds and Channels between Uie Strait of Magalhacns and the Gulf of
Fenas.
The western coast, between the Strait of Magalhaens and the Gulf of Penas, is formfd
by a succession of islands of considerable extent, the largest of which, Wellington is|.
and, occupies a length of coast of i:38 miles. It is separated from the main by ilu
Mesier and VVide Channels ; and from Madre de Dios by the Gulf of Trinidad. Mad,,
de Dios, which is probably composed of several islands, has for its inner or easttru
boundary the Conception Strait.
HANOVER ISLAND has the Sarmiento and Esteven Channels on its eastern side
and on the south is separated from Queen Adelaide Archipelago by Lord Nelson Strait
which communicates by Smyth Chaimel with the Strait of Magalhaens.
SiMV'TH CHANNEL commences in the strait at Beaufort Bay, on the eastern sH^
of Cape PhilJi]), N. 78° E. 5^ miles from which are the Fairway Isles; and at a iii;;;
more than G miles from the cape, on the west shore, is the anchorage of Deep lhnk>
the entrance of which is a quarter of a mile wide. The anchorage is about half a ti;=
within the head, ofl' the entrance of a lagoon, in from 30 to 35 fathoms. North arj
south of the port are inlets, each one mile deep. In entering, there is a patch ofL?'
on the starboard hand, and the shore is fronted for a short distance off by rocks.
GOOD'S BAY, the next anchorage, is better than the last, the depth being frnm;«
to 25 fathoms. It is convenient for vessels going to the northward, but when bound u
the opposite direction North Anchorage will be better, from the depth being less; hw
it is small, and the entrance is more fronted by rocks than Good's Bay. It is not inten;*]
to anchor in either of the above places. The widest and best channel is to the fiit.
ward of Middle Island. There is a plan of these anchorages.
OlFthe N. E. point of Shoal Island is a rocky patch, upon which the Adelaide Mnut
The channel for the next four miles is rather intricate ; but all the dangers are poinie;
out.
Opposite to Cape Colworth is Clappcrton Inlet, beyond which is a considerable irat;
of low country, a rare sight in these regions. Two miles further, on the eastern sidp.n
Hose Harbor, suitable for a small vessel; and on the opposite shore is Retreat Bav,
fronted by low rocky islets. The depth within is 24 fathoms.
Onwards the channel is clear, as far as Oake Bay, where the depth is 9 fathoms; fcm
the anchorage is better among the Otter Islands, the depth being 6 and 7 fathoms, and
the ground clean.
The channel, for the next 8 miles, becomes more strewed with islands and rock^.ami
has much shoal water off every low jwint. The const, also, is very low on the ra<'en!
shore, as far as the base of Mount Burncy, which is 5,800 I'eet high, and covered n't
perpetual snow.
The best channel is on the east side of the Otter Islands, and between the Siniiinpr
Isles and Long Island, for which the chart and a good looivout for kelp will be suirKifr.;
guides.
FORTUNE BAY is at the south-east extremity of, ajjparently, an island intlietL-
trance of a deep channel, which is, probably, one that Mr. Cutler, the master of;:
American sealing vessel, passed throu,,h.* Upon the supposition of its lea(lini,Mliroii;:
the land, and insulating the western shore of Smyth Channel, to the north of Point Paliif;
The latter is distinguished by the name of RenncI Island. Fortune Bay is a verym
venient and good anchorage, the depth being moderate, and bottom good, flieb*
berth is within Low Ishuid, in from 8 to 12 fathoms. At the bottom of the bay is;
thickly woo'led valley, with a fresh water stream.
A league to the north of Point Palmer, on the opposite shore, is Isthmus Bny.nllo:
ing excellent anchorage, but open to S. W. which here is not of much inonient, Ion:
channel is only two miles wide. The bottom of Isthmus Bay is formed by a vrryn^
row strip of land separatuig it from what 1 have no doubt is Sarmiento's Oracion Hi;
Five miles north of Point Palmer is AVelcome Bay, also affording an excellent place
anchor in, with moderate depth and good bottom. A plan was made of it.
In SANDY BAY, on the east side of the channel, and off Inlet Bay, on the ni;:-
site shore, there ai-p good anchorages. Both have a moderate depth, and are shelier?;
from the prev;iilina: winds, which generally are north-westerly.
In lat. 52° 1' is Victory Passage, sejiarating Zach Peninsula from Hunter Tslandj';
communicating with Union Sound, which leads to the Ancon Sin Salida of Sariiiiciiii
* We met this intelligent person two or three different times whilst cmplo5Td upon the surf?
nnd received much valuable, and what afterwards proved to be correct information fromb
which I am here much gratified to have an opportunity of acknowledging.— [P. P. K.]
Ou the west side o
and south of the is
Ai the south CXI
15 f;itlii)ms. llfi
fartliL'ron, neiu- Ct
fa'honis, it narrow
Creek seems conlii
ilincf lu {\n'. 111(1
fliirinj,' strong ihui
small vessel in wiw
hi'ulc iincliDrcil am
Jlcywooil Passiigc
(riiiita (id Ocsle,
more- West. Lici
Mtl with the I'oliow
,. " So genccally,
•f even fur working vi
siiiiiil criil't lit any
; (ranee is ri ami '_) ft
V the northward, and
i so that a vessel is i
i be ill the Strait of
I tides. 'I'lic cliaini
I teiiipestiioiis." — [>
p* As the sounds w;
I little need be said ii
I The cliar*^ II be
^ They po<- iiiiiiy
Sanni .j on hi:
[Strait of .\iagalliaei
J All his (lescrij)tioiis
i places he lueiitions
|caniiiit be mistake!
r' the Morro ofAin
Ivater ravine that di
ilarge iiioitth of a c
Ihay without ;i tlion
liiiiiliiiL; ciDschcs CI
■■\\illi :;reiit labor an
itlii' westward, has
|liill' to the Morro e
riic anchorages
SouikIs, \\('ii' iis I'd
LKKWAIM) 15
^neiided.
WHALE no A
A small cove on t
IxetCord.
FOC P.aS', two
EASTER 15 A \
'J'iie. Canal of t!
ligh snow-cai)[)C(l (
laviiiL;- a glacier of
from (.'ape Earnest,
)f alioiit half a iiiih
WOKSLEV B
LAST HOPE
miles tlie ineadtli
.1 lathoiiis deep.
l)ISAPP()l.\'i\^
feicil with stunted i
(bit stj)iiy beacli
[ithiii a ijiiarter ol
* Tlicse islets wci('
'idi birds,
BLINT S AMERICAN COAST I'lLOT.
041
le eastern sHj
and at a liiilj
' Deep Harder,
)ul hair a miif
3. North aid
a patch of k!:|i
rocks,
being frninv
when bound i;
leing less; 1;, ■
t is not inteiviH)
1 is to tiie (a.;.
ulelaideMnuli
;ers are poinier
nsiderable irar
I eastern sidp,;.
is Retreat Bav,
9 fathoms; but
7 fathoms, and
i and rocke.md
on the rib'etc
id covered wiit
en the Hrnmn
will be .sullifif:.;
island in then.
le iiiiistPVdf;
leading llirni:;
jf Point Palirc
y is a vevv cut-
ood. Tliekt:
of the bay is
Tins Bay, ali'ur
moment, Ion:
d l)y a vnv !i
)'s (Jracioii li-
xrelleut place
it.
iiy, on thpn|w-
nd are shelifK:
inter Island, j:.;
la of SarniicDif.
()u the west side of I limtcr Island is Island J5ay, with good anchorage both to the north
iiiul south of the islets. The Adelaide anchored in the latter in 17 fathoms.
Aitlic south extremity of l*ia/,/,i Uiaiid is llamptr 15, ly, with anchorage in from 7 to
16 fathoms. IIitc the cir.iimcl with'iis lo ihrcc miles and a half; but at two leagues
fartliyron, near (.'eres Island, under the ,S, K. end ol which the A<l('laide anchored in 10
fa'honis, it narrows to two miles. Kocky Cove is not lo be recommended, and Narrow
Creek seems confuied.
Iliiice lo the inoulli of the ch;iiuiel, which again widens here to 5 miles, and in which,
durin" strong norlh-west winds, tiu.' se:i runs heavy, w(! Know of no anchorage; but a
small vessel in want will douliiless lind many, by sending her boat in s(tarch. Tlie Ade-
laide anchored among the Diana jshuids, and in Montague l!ay, having passed through
ilcywuod Passage, 'fhe norlljcrn ))oint of Pia/zi Island is Narniiento's West Point,
(Piiiita del Ucsle,) and a league, to the soulii is his Piint;i de Mas-al-C)este, or Point-
more- West. l>ieuten;mt .^kyring concludes the jouriKd of his survey of Sinyth Chan-
nel with the foUouing remarks :
"So genevally, in<leed, do the northerly winds i)rev;iil, that it would be troublesome
even for working vessels to make a pas.s.ige to the mjrtliward ; but it is a safe channel for
snr.dl craft at any time The tides are regular: tli ■ rise and fall at the southern en-
I trance is 8 and ') feet, but at the noriiiern only ■'> ;md (>. The Hood tide always sets to
I the northwaril, and the strength oj'ilic slreimi is frijm hall'toone mile and ahalf anhour ;
^ so that a vessel is not so likely to b(! detained here for any length of time, as she would
')(■ in the Strait of Magalhaen-, where there is little or no assistance felt from westerly
tides. 'I'he channel iivsides is c'om[)aralively free frcjiii sea, and the winds are not SO
'; 'eiiipestuous." — [Skyring's M.S.]
As the sounds within Smyth ( 'li;uuu'l will never be used for any purpose of navigation,
little need be said in a work destined solely for the use of shipping Irecjuenting the coast.
The char^ 11 be sullicient to refer to for every purpose of curiosity or information.
'i'liey po-- niuiy aiiclioi;iges for small vess(.ds, allbrding both sheiler and security.
Sarmi .j <)i\ his third boat voyage to discover a passage through the land into the
Strait of >lagalhaens, gives a detailed and very interesting account of his proceedings.
All his descri|)tions are so good, that wc had no hesitation in assigning positions to those
jilices he mentions, to all of which his names have been appended. Cape Ano-nuevo
ciimiot b(! mistaken, and the description ol' his Ancon Sin Salida is ])erfect. He says
'• ilie 3Iorro of Ano-nuevo trcndsround to the S. 10. and S. .'"'. K. for a league, lo the first
Miller ravine that descends from the sunnnit. In an east direction from tliis, appears a
),ii<:e mouth of a channel, about two leagues off. We went to it, and found it to be a
Ii;iy withoiU a thoroughfare, forming a cove to the north, about a league deep; so that,
iiiiding eniselv(!s embayed, we returned to the entrance, which we had previously reached
|-\vitli tireat labor ;uid fatigue. This bight lias lour islets. The bay, from the islets to
Itlie westward, has a sandy beach, backed by a low couiiliy lor m<»re than a league and a
lidl'fo the Morro of Ano-nuevo."
The ;mcliorages that were useil by the Arlelaide upon the e\;imination of the interior
(Minds, were as follows :
liKKWAJM) i>AV, exposed, and being upmi llie leeward shore, is not to be recom-
neiided.
WliALK noA'L' WAY, about one mile to the cast of Grey Cape.
A small cove on the north shore of Kirke Narrows, about u mile to the east of Cape
E^etford.
I''()(! B.\^', two miles ;md a half lo llio iiortli of ihe east end of Kirke Narrows.
KASTKll ]>A\, a convenient anchorage wiiliin While Narrows.
S The. Canal of tlie Mountains, nearly ill miles long, is bounded on each side by the
migh snow-capped Cordillera, the western side being by very much the higher land, and
^laviiii; a ulacier of -JO miles in eMeiit, ruimiiig p;inill("l wiili the canal. Kighteen miles
^/roni Cape k'.arnest, where the canal ( ommem es, the cliaimel is contracted to the width
|of ah(uit half a mile; oiherwise its width is from one to two miles.
■' WUKSLKN' r>\\ AM) SOCND extend lo miles into the land.
, LAST IJOPK INLF/r is 40 miles in lengili. Its niouih is .'!.', miles wide, but at
f miles the l)re;idth is eontraeled by islands^ to less than ;i mile, the channel being 5 to
1 lathomsdeep. i^eymid this i. arrow the sound trends to the W. N. W.
DISAPPOINT.MKNT BAN'.— The l;uid at the bottom is very low, and thickly co-
lered with stiinled wood. Mr. Kiike traced iis shores, and found ihem to be formed by
at st,ony beach, and tin; water so shallow tluit the boat could seldom a])proach it
[ithui a ijuarter of a mile. A considerable body of water was noticed by him over the
upon tlic surfi.
mniion from o
P.K.J
* These islets were covered widi black-ucekiii
filli liird.«,
81
-v\au.-, and the sound generally is well atockta
642
ULUJNT S AMIMIICAN COAST PILOT.
low laml, probably a laii^cr lagoon, for it coiiirrmnicates with the l)ay by a liipi;! iimn,
GO yards wide. No lii,i;li land was seen in an easterly diruL-lioii ; so that tlio country be-
Iwucii l)isa|)i)oiiitiii(Mit iJay and th(.' cisU'ru coast may [)rol)ably bu a contiiiiK.'d niiuiini
or plain, like tin? coast of I'lastcrn Patagonia. '
OBSTRUCTION SOUND cxf is lor thirty nuirs in a south by cast direction, ami
then for fifteen more to the W. ' \V. wiicr<' it terminates. It is separated from the
bottom of Skyrin-^ Walcr i)y a ridi;(! of hills, perhaps twelve miles across. Some water
was seen from a lieiji,ht, about six miles olf, in tlie intervening space, but the shores utre
so carefully traced that Lieutenant Skyriiif;, who examined it, feels satisfied thai nii
eommunication exists. This (piestion, however, will probably be set at rest by Caniuin
Fitzroy, during his inlended voyage.
A large plan was made of ihes.' sounds, to wliieh a reference will give every dcsireii
information.
SARiMlENTO CIIANNKU, connnunlcating l)et\\een llu- east side of I'ia/./.i Islrml
and Staines Tenin^^ula, continues to lh(> northward of tiie niouih of Peel Inlet, wIkhh
joins the Sail Estevau Chaniitd, from whicii if is .se|)arated by liie islands of \aiiciiii.
ver ami Esi)crau/.a. l>etvveeu these is a passage nearly a league wiue, but strewed hhI,
islands.
RELIEF IL\R]K)H, at the south end of Vancouver island, is a convenient anclK.r.
age; !)ut (he best hereaboiUs is J'uerto I'ueno, (irst noticed liy Sarmicnto. It ali(ii,\
excellent aiu'horagc and a n^oderate depth td' water, the latter of very nnusual ()((|||.
rence. A small cove, round the north point, called Schooner (,'ove, is well adapted lur
a small vessel, and may be used in prel'erence tiven to Puerto lUieno.
In SAN ESTEVAN CHANNEL, Escape Ihiy, altlumgh small, is ccmvenii'iit ;iiiil
well sheltered. Opixisite the south end of Esperai]/.a Island is the deep openinjut
Ellen Ray, which may probably be a chainiel passing through and dividing Ihinoui
Jaland. To the north the anchorages of lUjoice Harbor and Anchor Ray are cuim.iu-
dious and useful.
PEEL INLET extends in for 7 leagues, communicating with Pitt Channel, ami in-
•ulating Ciiatliam Island, whicli is separated from the N. en(l of lIa!U)ver Island hy a rim.
tinuation of the Sarniienfo and San Estevau Cliamiels, ofwliichtln! principal featiupis
the Guia Narrows.* These narrows are (> miles long, and, excepting the nurlli cijil,
where it is only one fifth of a mile wide, is from half to one mile broad. The titles lure
are not very rapid. High walcr at full and change takes place at 2h. 8m., tlie /li;w|
running to the southward. At the south entrance of San Estcvan Channel, tlieievnje
is the case, of which, for vessels passini; through, some advantage may be taken.
The north-west coast of Chatham Island has many bights and coves fronted byislamls,
among which is Cuanl i5ay, where the Adelaide anchored ; but the coast is too exposed
to the sea and prevailing winds, to otl'er much convenient or even secure shelter.
The north-west points of llanoverand Chatli;iiii Islands are more than ten miles apart,
and midway between them is situated Sarmiento's Innocent's Island (Isla de Ins h-
nocentes.)
COiNCEPTION STRAIT separates Madre de Dios and its island to the southivurd
from the Main land. It conmiences at Cape Santiago, in lat. 50^'°, and joins the Wide
Channel, or Rrazo Aneho of Sarmieuto in 50^ 5'. On the west side (the eastern coiisl
of Madre de Dios) arc several convenient anchorages, i)articularly Walker 15ay, a bay to
the north of Point Michael, and Tom Bay, all of Avhich, being on the weather shore,
afford secure anchorage ; but the squalls off the high land are not less felt than in other
parts.
ST. ANDREW SOUND is four leagues wide ; but the mouth is much occupied bv
the Canning Isles, upon the northernnuist of which, at the south-west end, is PortlamI
Bay, a good anchorage for a small vessel, in ') fathoms. The principal entrance ol'ft
Andrew Souiul is to the north of ('hatham Island. It is o miles wide, and at (> leajiif;
withm, divides into two arms : the northern one is 5 or G leagues long, and terniinat'<:
but the southern channel, which is Pitt Chaiuiel, trending behind Chatham Islam.l, anii
communicates, as before mentioned, with Peel Inlet.
The anchorage of Expectation ]5ay, 5 leagues within the Sound, at the east extreniiiv
of the Kentish Isles, was used by the Aflelaide in her examination of these inlets.
At POINT RRAZO ANCIIO the Gulf of Trinidad commences, and the Conception
Strait terminates ; for its continuation to the north-east bears the name of Wide Chan-
nel, which is 40 miles long, and frouT I'j to 3,V miles broad.
At SAUMAPv-EZ ISLAND it joins the Mesier Channel, and to the N. E. oomimi-
nicates with Sir George Eyre Sound, which is 40 miles long, and with an average
* So called after Sanr.icnfo's Boat. If was by this route ho pnsprd down to the pxaniinationol
his Ancon Sin Saiida. lie describes it ns a narrow, .100 paces wide.
Remarks upon the
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST IMI.OT,
643
examination ol
iirendih of 1 miles. Noitr tlio ontrnnrp on tlio rust side \v;is loiiiKi a largo rookery ol
sea!'*, and another, \^> miles Cai'llier up. on tlie saMio side, in lat. 18 ' 'Jl'.
The southern end of tlie Mesier Channel, for iiraily 10 leai,'nes, is named Indian
Reacli. Ft is narrow, and has many isl(!ts, but tic watrr is An-]). Then follows English
Narrows, I'J miles Iomj, and iVom half to one mile and a (|iiarler widi; ; hut miuiy I'arts
art^ eiiritracteil by islands to lOO yards, 'i'liu passage lies (di the west side of the chan-
nel, to the westward of all the islands.
Knini the north end of the narrows to the outlet of tlie Mesier, at Tarn Bay, in the
(Hilf (if I'enas, a distance of 7.j miles, the channel is ([Mite oj)cn and free from all im-
pediiiient.
TflF. ANCIlORAdF.S in tlie Wide and Mcsiei Channels, nre more imiuerous than
we have any aeeonnt of. Tlio-ie (Hvujiieil hy thi^ Adidaih' in her course through, are
as I'oilows, viz. :
FATAL ]?AY", in lat. 47^ oo', on the western shore, al tle^ north entrance of the
cliannd, insnlatim: Millar Island. 'I'his hav is open and e\p!)sed.
ISLAND llAKr.Oll, on thr east shore, in lat. H' ()':'.", is a small hut excellent
land-locked ancliorage, wilii '.axid holding; grounil. Wood anil water (dose at hand, and
abundance of fish.
WATiOivFALL PAV, in lat. 4"P 17'; al the enlraiiee of an inlet on the east side of
the (diannid.
At this |)art (d'llie Mc-;ii'r Channel l!i(- tides aic r:giilar, and run (> hours each way,
the fiooil srltiiei N. bv W.
Wlli'l'i-: KKLP COVI''., on tlio inirtji sidr of liion i'ay, aljont one mile within thn
liead, is conlined, and only fit for a small ves-^id.
HALT l?A V, on the <'ast shore, at the north end of the Knglish Narrows, in lat. 48"
.51'. Here the (Inod sets to tlr- S. S. F,., and tin- tide being eonfmed by the narrow
width of flic channel, riuis witli considerable stren;:tlK
LEVEL 15 VV, on the eastern side of the chamnd, al the south end of the narrows,
is in lat. 4')° 7' .JO".
ROCKY" lUCIIT, opposite the north-east point of Saumnrez Island, in from 17 to
12 faflionis.
Fl'RY^ COVE, near Tied Cape, the exiremity of F.xmouiii I'ldmontory. It is very
confined, there not being room lor more than two sn all vessels ; but the groun(i. is good,
and although open to the S. W., it is a S(<eurG haven.
.SANDY BAY, on the west slnu-e of Wide Chanced, in lat, AV 4;7 ,10".
SMALL CRAFT P.KillT, also on the west shore, near tlie south end of tlie Yv^ide
Channel, is of small si/,(\ bul answers every ))urpose of a sto|);ii.ii; place for the night.
OPICN BAY, on the east sliore, opposite the Cn'f of Trinidad. Tin; anchorage is
sheltered by two islands ; but it is too expensed to tr ist a vessel in, and therefore not to
be recommended.
Besides the aijove aiudiorai^es, there are many eqially e(nivenieiit,a!id, i)erhnps, much
better, that may be occupied by vessels navigating these (diannels. Every bight offers
an anchorage, and almost any may be entered wit!i sa!(;ty. On all occasions the wea
thcr shore should be preferred, and a shelving coast is generally fronted l)y shoaler sound-
ings, and more likely to afford moderate depth of water than the steep-sided coasts; for
in the great depth of water alone consists the difficulty of navi;:ating these channels.
Througlinnt the whole space between the Strait of ?>Ia;;alliaens and the Gulf of Pe-
nas, tliere is abundance of wood and water, fish, shell-fish, cidery, and birds.
Remarks upon the, I'asxnrrcrnimd, Cape Ilnrn, and Id and from tJtc Atlantic and Pacific
Oceans, tlirouqh tlie Strait of ATairalltwiis.
Ships bound from the Atlantic to any of the ports in the Pacific, will find it advantage
ous to keep within 100 miles of the coast of Eastern Patagimia, as well as to avoid the
heavy sea that is raised by the westerly gales whicli prevail to the eastward, and increase ip
strength according to the distance from the land, as to profit by th.e variableness of the
wind when fixed in the western board. Near the coast, from April to September, when
the sun has north declination, the winds prevail more from the W. N. W. to N. N. W.
than from any other quarter. Easterly gales are of very rare occurrence, but even when
they do blow, "the direction being obliquely upon the coast, T do not consider it at all
hazardous to keep the land on board. In the opposite season, when the sun has south
declination, the winds will incline from the southward of west, and frequently blow hard;
but as the coast is a weather shore, tiie sea goes down immediately after the gale. Jn
this season, although the winds are generally against a ship's making quick jirogrcss,
yet as they seldom remain fixed in one point, and frequently shift backward and for-
ward 6 or 8 points in as many hours, advantage may be takcii of the change so as to
keep close in with- the coast.
644
nLUXT's A>IT:riICAN COAST PILOT.
Having onrrniadc llic ImikI, which slumld ho dnjio to iho snutlnviinl of (:ii|m; (!i;i,|(.„
it will be beiicliciiil to kcr]) it tojjpiii^ on the horizon, until the cntiancc oltlic 8tr;iit,,(-
Magalhaens he piisscih
With rcspeet to lliis |)aii ol'ilu- voyajL'f, ulM'tlicr ((« |>ii>s tlii()iii;ii tlie Slcall ic iAhiii,.
or round Siaton Island, innch dil'Criinci' ol (i|iinion csists. I'riidcncc, I iliink, m,,,
gests the latter; jet I hlioiild vi ly ichictanlly uive n|> the oiipminniiy that nii:;hi tii\\;
of clearinj^ the sliait, and llnK luic ui' luinii "o mucli nioic to Hindwanl. Willi;,
southerly wind, il would not Lc aihi>a!ilf to aiieinjii the >tiail ; Iit. \\\\\i a ui ailiciiid,
the sea runs very eross and deep, and nii.uht s( mtcIv injnir and cndanuer tiic salcivdi;
small vess(d, and to a lai:;i' (<iii' do ininli damage. In calm weather il wodid Ix! >iiiri|,„p,
imprudent, (unless the >n'slern sid' of the strait can lie reaclnd, uhere a -lilp iniiilif im.
chor,) on aei-ount of the tide seitin:; o\er lo tie- Stalen Inland side, w hen . ilit l'"i'(,iiirs
necessary to ancdior, it unnld neee^>arily lie in v( ry deep w.iier, and (dusi; tn tlic
land. With a iM)rtherly wind ilie route seems not oidy pra* lieaide. but. mtv ii('v,nii;i;i.
OUS, and it would leipiire sunn' res(diilion to ;;l\-e up llie oppoiliinily so iiiviiin'^ly ((Hcici
I doubt whether nortlii'riy \vinds, nnless they are very siron':. Mow tliroiii:li ihc ^iiMi;-
if not, a ship is drifted over to tin; eastern shores, \vliere, I'rom tlie fni'( e of (lie li.lc. j
must be (piite uninana;^) able.
Captain Fit/. l{oy, whose antlnnity. j'nmi l;i^ experieiiee. nirisl lie veiy !:!»(. d. sreiiM
think there is neither dillienlty nor risk in i)assin'.r the sliail. 'I'lie oidy d in'i'-r that dir,
exist, and that may be an imaginary one. is ilu' failure of the wind. SJiijis p;i-^|.
through it from the south, are not so lialde lo liie t'^iiini-e of the s()nth-\*'<li'rh- «;.
nnless it be lii^ht, and t'.en it will proJialdy bi' iVoui the ;N. \\'. at the nerthcni em! (.iil,,
strait. The anchorage in (iood Success I'ay, however, is admirably situated. sIk.h;,;
the wind or tide fail.
In passing to leeward ol'.'stalen fslainl, tlie fide race. wJilcli extends for ?(nne (li^i; i,,,
off Cape St. Jolui, at tlie N. K. (.-nd of tlie island, uuist be avoided, otherwise llicrcc;.
ist no dangers.
The anchorage under New-\'car's Islands, altho;iL:li it is a wild one and llie liiiii„|,
tad, and the tide very stroiiij;, yet ofl'ers ^ood sin Iter froni sonth-west ^vinds, and miji
be occupied with advantanf; dnrin!>; the existeine of a gale from tiiut quarter, siiicp itj.
unfavorable for .ships boiuid round the Horn.
After passing Staten Island, if the wind he w(>slerly, the ship should lie kept iijKinil.p
starboard tack, ludess it veers to tin- sontliuard of .'<. .<. W. until she reaidies thp];iiini(|.
of 60'' south, and then upon that tack upon which nn)Ht westing may be made. Iiii|ii>
parallel, however, tln^ wind is thought to jnevail more I'rom llie eastward than turn iiuv
other quarter. Never havina passed round f'apc Horn in the sinnmer season. I iiwv
not perhaps be justilied in opposing my opinion to that of otlieis; who, liaviir; tiiii!
both seasons, give the jireferem-e to the summer nionlhs. The advantage of len;^ dnv;
is certainly very great, but from my e\|)erience ol' the winds and weather during tlicso op-
posite seasons at Port Famine, 1 jjreferred the winter passage; ami in onr sid)s('(|iu'iii
experience of it, found no reason to alter my opinion. Easterly ami northerly wimls
prevail in the winter off the cape, whilst southerly and wc^sleriy winds are c(nistaiil (lin-
ing the summer months; and imt oidy ari; the winds more l'a\(irable in the winter, Inn
they are moderate in comparison to the fury of the summer gales.
Having passed the meridian of f'ape Pillar, it will yet jje advisable tf) take rveiy np
portunity of making westing in ])ref(nencc to northinir, until rea( hing the ineridiiiii H
.82° or 84°, which will enable a ship to steer tlirouLrh the norih-westerly winds that pre-
vail between the parallels of oil and .'>l^. (See IlalPs South America, Appendix.)
With respect to the utility of the barometer as an indicator of tlii? weather that ises-
perienced o(f (Jape Horn, 1 do not think it ran be considered so uiifaili.ng a guide as iti<
in the lower or luiddle latitudes. ( 'ajitain Fit/. Roy, however, has a better (ipiiiinii et'lii'
indications shown by this valualile instninient : my opinion is, that although the risii
fall precedes the change, yet it uiore fre(|uently ;iccomi)anies it. 'Ihe following skcid
of the movement of the barometer, and of the weather that we experienced, may notki
without its use.
Being to the north of Staten Island for .1 days preceding full moon, whicli oeciiinv
on the 3d of April, 1829, wc had very foggy weather, with light winds from tlie n-'-
ward and northward, causing a fall of the mercin-y from L")-')(l to 2'j'.')(>. On the diiyfi
full moon the column rose, ami we had a beautiful morning, during which the lii:li
mountains of Staten Island were (jnite unclmided, as were also those of Ticrni ilf!
Fuego. At noon, however, a fresh gale from the S. W. set in, and env<doped the W
with a dense mist. No sooner had the wind changed, than the mercury rose to S')'''!-
but fell again the next morning ; and with the descent the wind veered round to, ami
blew strong from N. W., with thick cloudy weather and rain, wliich continued until the
following noon, when the wind veered to S. W., the barometer at 29*54, having slightly
risen; but after tl
when wc had a fr
,111(1 cdininiied to
inilil il reached -
(It m.'c of wind,
cast, uith sipialls
weather.
The colniiin iio
(lull and showery
from the sonlhwa
After this to ne'
and \V. S. W., tl
more \vesferlv ; b
The mean heiu
The mercury st
With the wind
'JS-8(), a S. W. ga
ceased to descend
In the month of .1
nallv rose to ."le.").
at i'r\
The following
Observatory at I'd
Of the Passage /
The difficulties
well from adverse
great, that the Sti
they may be avoi<
be placed ; but by
and weather, has
and plans of the
descriptions of tl
him with advice a
moved, but there
large, or even anj
unless detention
For a square-ri
useful : —
In the eastern
Narrow; where,
I side of the chann
I and of reaching (
of passing the Si
which place the
bt.um's amf.iucan coast imi.ot.
645
rispn; hut aflcr tho clinngn it Cell iiud continiif.l to ilcvrriHl mMi'irilly until nii(lni;;Iif,
when' we li:i<l :> <V»'sli inalc tVoiii W. S. \V. Wlicii this wind wi-t in. \\v nuMC iiiv rose,
,111(1 CI)!!?)!!!!!'!! to ri-n, iw till! wio'l vccrcii, willio II t (Ircrc-.isiii.r in sirf:r,'ili, to S. S. W.
tiiiiil ii itMcliril •:')■')•"), when ii lill ii-^iiin iiiid iln' wnnliiT inodcnitcd. hut witiumt any
(■|un''o of wind. During lii" di'Sfcnt nt liic nn'iciiiv, lln- sky wlili n> «;is dull and ovcr-
ca.st. with s(|ii;di-< cl' wind and lain, Inil on shore it si'( ini'd to he vtv line sufishiny
wcallicr. . , ,
'riiccidninn now rcl! lo 'J')vj:i, and dm in': ils dcsfcnt the wpafhcr nMiianicd ilio sanio,
(lull and sliowrrv; Imt as soon as the nificniy luianif staiionaiy, a lifsli hrcc/.c set in
iVoin till' sonlhwanl, with i]ur weal her.
Al'ifi-this to new moon, tin- wcatln'r was very mi-<'ltlcd. llic uiiid veering liclwccii S.
anil \V. S. W., tin- liaiomi'ti r lisin^ as it vciiiil lo lli:' rniinir, and lallini^ as it Ix-canie
nirni' wi'stciiv ; lint no no oci iision did il |iicc(m|i' tin (lian'^c.
Tlio nif'an liri'^'n oC ilic haionicln- i> niii.iit -J')-.'*.
Tlio mncnrv staixls lowest with .\. \V . winds, iiiid lii:;hest with S. K.
With the wind at N. W. or noiliit riy. the mercury is low: il' it Talis to 'J') iiuhes or
28'8(), a S. W. jiale niav he e\|)ecied." Imt dues nol eoimiience until tho (■(dnmn lias
ceased to deseend. it lVi(|iienil\. however, tails wilhont iieiim followed l)y this tdianae.
In the month of .lime, al I'ort Kamim-.tlie hanmicter fell lo •.',•^•17. and aflerwards grad-
ually ro.se to ;;()■."). whiih was followed liy cidd ve;;ilier, in wliicdi the ihcrmonietcr stoo(l
at l->^
The foliowini: table shows the n, can lemijeraliiro and pre-siire as resi^tered ;it the
Observatory at I'oit Famine, in the .'*^iiaii.
P F(dirnary,. .
',]■{
•■20-.in
j Martdi, ....
■I')-!
•."j-f).|
1 April,
■! 1 -.'
; 'Jf)-.j7
1
1 :Ma}
35-5
;.")•:;! 1
y .lime,
?y?.-9
'; •J!)-,'.^
1 .Inly ...
.';;!•()
',")-.")7
i Ain;iist,
;;:;-2
L")-2^^
Of the Passage to and from llic Allatitir and J'dciiir Oceans, hij the Strait of Ma gal-
hams.
The difficulties that present themselves to naviifator.s, in passins;; round Cajie Horn, a«
well from adverse winds as the severe jjale and heavy sea that they are (tx])os(!d to, are so
great, that tlie Str;tit of .Maiialhaens lias n;itiirally hecii looked to as a route hy which
they may be avoided. Ilitherio no chart has existed in which uiuch conhdence coxihi
be placed; but by the jiresent survey, the navigation llirouu;h it, independent of wind
and weather, has been reiuhM-ed nmcli easier; since a correct delineation of its shores,
and plans of tlie anchorages, have been made; and in (he I'.recediiijj; padres sufficient
descriptions of them have been given to assure the navii;ator of his ])lace, and furnish
|ia him with advice as to his proeee(rmj»s. The local difculties. therefore, have been re-
'jM moved, but there remain miu h tnore serious ones, which I should not recommend a
^ large, or even any but a very active and fast-sailing stjuare-riiiged vessel, to encounter,
unless detention be iH)t an object of importance,
I For a square-rigged vessel bound through the strait, the following directions will be
I useful : —
'I In the eastern entranre, the winds will fretpiently favor a ship's arrival oil' the First
^ Narrow; where, if she selects a good anchorage onlhe baidi which bounds the northern
side of the channel, she may wait an oppmtunity of ])assing through the First Narrow,
and of reaching (n-egory Uay; where also a delay may safely be made, lor the purpose
1 of passing the Second Narrow and arriving at the neighborhood of Cape Negro ; al
which place the difficulties and dangers of the eastern entrance cease.
646
bt.unt's amkrican coast pilot.
The (lungers licimj; ciin'riilly |)l!irr(l on the rlinrt, nnd siiU'icicntly rlpsriilifd in tfi^
in-rcciliim |i;iir uriliis mciniiir, ?uitliini,' iir'cil he i('|ii'iitc(| here; and in<I«'fMl iiiikIi in,,,,
l)t' li'('t Id lin- jii(l'^:Mi'rit 1111(1 (!i-icictiiiii id llic ii;ivimit(ir.
The |)ii.ss;i>r») of tilt) b'irst Niiiiow, the ;iii( li(iiii:;t! to (lie (MstMiird of, and in. (iirM„rv
IJay, ill'- |iassai;p of tlic Scrdiid Xarnnv, llic aiiclii>iai,'c ii> llic nmtli of Kli/.ilictli I,;.
and, and tli(( pa-^^iaiic iDiind its south side, liavc aliradv hrrn rlcs( rilx'd.
'JMic tiih's aiwwcr hcsi lor vi-.^rU ciil'Tiii'.' the Sliaii al llic iicriod of lull and rh;iii ,.
ol the moon, since llicrc arc two westerly tides in the day. In the winter season, iltli,
inorniiii; tide lie not snUicient to earrv a vessid thn>nt;li tlie l'"irst Narrow, .sln- mavrf.
turn to l*ossessioii I'ay. sideel an am hori'.'e, and he seenred a'_Min hcd'ore nii;lit : cir, n
the sunnner, if she has passed the Narrow, and enalded to an( Inn- (or the tide, ili,.,
will ho snlTicient daylijit I'or her to proceed wiih the lollowini; tide to 'Irei^ory liay,
or at least to a s.il'e an(diora::e oil' tin' peaUed hillo(d<s, on the in)rth slnnc.
I liav(! twice attempted to pa-is die |''irst Narrow, and heen ol)li'.;ed to relmn tnii,
anrJntrav'e in Possession l>ay: and twice I have passed tliroii'.'h it a'.'ainst a strong; lini .
hlowinv' diri'ctiv throii-li. Iiy aid of the tidi'; wirndi runs, in the narrower pails mil
rato of 1 1) or I J miles an hour. \\'ii"n the tide and wind are opposed to oa(di olln im .
sea is very deep and hi-avy, and hreaUs hiih over llie de(d<s; it is. liierel'ore, adviv ,
to tdoso ro<d', or lower tli(> topsails on the cap, and drift through ; for llie tiile, if ;it:i,
sprinirs, will generally he sii('li( ieni to cairv a ship to an ancdiora^e, aitlioii!:li noi ;i|« u
to one that il would he safe to jiass ihe iii',f|ii al. < )n this acconni, i( woiilii he priic ii
to retiirn ; for, alihoui,'li the Inddiie; ground is exceedin:;ly liood, yet, to pari in ihc m.' ,
or drift towards, or Ihroiiu'li the Narrow, could scarcidy liappen without accident.
In loaviin; the ancdiora^e in (ire^ory l>ay, attention must ho paid to tho tide, whirli
continuos to run to the eastwanl in the Second Narrow,.'! hours after it has connniinei
to sot to the ,^. \V. iit tlie anchoriiro.
With a leadiiii; wind Ihroui^h the .'^iM-ond Narrow, a ship will easily rea(di an ;iii(!ifir.
ago olf Laredo I5ay; hut if the lido fails upon omorgimi from it, she should seek lor
berth in tlio hay to tho north of Kii/,al)otli Island, as near to tho island as possili|i\ Imt
to tho weslwarii of its .\. K, end, to he out of tlie iiilliieiico of the lido. The (|i|ii||„:
water, Iiowcmt, will ix- ihe hesi miide.
Diroctioiis to pass round tho south side of Kli/.alieth l-!and hav(< already liepn siicn;
arid as this part offers some dangers, the (diart and the description should he ciucliiliy
voforrfMl to.
Tho only advice tliat sooms wanting to improve tho diroctioiis of tho coast fpnii iliis
to Port Famine, is, with a south-westerly wind, to keep close to tho weather slmtp, in
order to henoht iiy the Haws down tlu' vallovs; hut this must he done with caiiiinii.in
conse((uonro of tho s(|ualls oli" llio hii:h land, the violeiire of whioii, to a porsoimiiac-
customed to them, cannot ho w(dl ima;:iiiod.
Tho fourtli section (rives an account of tho aiudiora^os hotwoon I'ort FaiiiiiiP iii::
Cape Froward, of wlfndi the only ccMivonieiit one tor a ship is St. Nicdiolas liay, iimltii
which, if defeated in i)assing round tho oapo, a ship iia<l hotter return ; for it isca^yii
reach as well as to h'avo, and oxtromolv roiivonient to stop at, to await an opportunity oi
proceeding.
From Capo Froward to tho westward, unless fivoreil hv a fair wind, it is nrrrs<;iiyti
persevere and take advantage of every opporluiiily of advancing stop hy slop. Tiier'
are several anchorages that a ship mav take up, such as Sniic Hay, o(f Woixrs Day,
near Cape f'ovontrv. in Fortoseue i'av. Klizaboth P.ay, and V'ork Roads. These an
before doscrihod. To tlie westward, in Crooked Rea( h, tho anchorages arc not so gooii.
and, oxc?))ting llorja I5ay, none seem to oiler miudi convonionce. ]}orja ]?ay, however
is well calculated to supply tho dcdlcicncy, altliough for a square-rigged vessel tlier^
must he si le difficulty in reaching it.
LONG RE.\(;iI is hr)th long aiul narrow, and ill supplied with anchnragcs foraslii?
Such asthev are. Swallow llarhor, IMava Parda, Marian's Cove, and Half Port Biiy.sPHi
to be the host. In thick weather, althoiiuh tho (diannol is very narrow, yet (Min siilf'
scarcely visibh; from the other, and the only advantage it has over other parts nl i.r
strait is the smoothness of tho water. In Sea Reach there is a heavy rolling swell, wii't
a short and ileen sea. wdrudi renders il very difrieiilt to beat to windward.
TAM.\R. II.VKUOK, Valentine Harbor, Tuesday Cove, and the Harbor of Mmv,
are the best anchorages ; and the latter is particularly convenient to occupy, to awaiia!i
opportunity of sailing out of tho strait.
In the entrance the sea runs vorv heavy and irregularly during and after a gale: so
that a ship should not leave her anchorage in the liarbor of Mercy, without a fair on
leading wind to get her quickly through it.
For small vessels, particularly if they be fore-and-aft rigged, many, if not all of tlie
local difTicultios vanish ; and inlets which a ship riare not or cannot approach, may of
n
riileiTd with safety
(If jji'tler olf in eiitt
,1 heavy sea ; hut li
ciniau''. ^be has ;
IJie wind he norths
llie Pacific.
One very great ai
lortniiity ol obtain
(iiriicnlly. AiioiIk
imnilhs. from .laiin
Famine, at the (irst
fi-ih are also caiighi
I iiKirning or late in
jilacc where there ;
On the outer coast
'■ Piirdliius for jKts.s
The advantage w
f (ilie lo the AtlaiUi*
' i;le his ship willi ll
«. i After passing throii
il from the innlhwan
1 coast ; or il not, ilii
I' ])aratively smooth ;
'> she must go to the
'1 and a lieavy hi-ani
( adviiitage is iiicalc
i ahled to escape tl
.' the .Sout'i Atlanti(;
Coini.ig iVom the
, trance i/f the strait
northward of Capt;
breakwater to the d
hollow sea almost a
Tho land of Caji
be not very thi(d<, '
'^thc hori/.on from a .s
of them, and steer I
not pass too near t(
the southward : bin
steer along the sho
south .shore ; and i
will be correctly k
weather be thi(d<, b
ceeding with safely
The Adventure c
ing within alfa mi
close reefed topsaib
frequently conceah
smooth, and the co
wo proceeded withe
wind and rain fro(|n
clearl ■ distinguislu
the distance shown
had not been subje
iiiiudi in error, in c
light winds, wliich
daybreak we were I
wc were abreast of
In the summer s
;l)e very tempestuou
less as a precaution
*Froni tho Advent
[liorizou at the distaiic
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAM' IMLOT.
C47
rntfifil Willi siilVty, iiiul iiiiclmiiijjo ciisily ohlaiiicd hy iIk in. A huiiv >h\\) "ill iifihaps
,. Idtiii 1)11111 ••nlfiiiin ;iiiil Itaviiij; tin- .strait wlu-ic llicre is oj en ^\y,\vv, aiitl rrr(ninii|y
licavv sra ; luit Idi' llif iiaviual ion ol the strait, a Miiall \rv-i| Ims 1 1 n^idi lalily llic ad-
viiita"t'. Sill' lias also llif (i|)|)inlmul\ iiliia-siiiu ilniiiiuli iIm' ( ucklmin Cliaiiiiil, slionlil
tile wTihI be iioiili- westerly, which will \r\y nuiili n .ni.c ih. lni:iii 1,1 ilic i:a>,sag»- into
/ One vfiy inreat ailvantago to hv ilorivcd rioiii the passaj^c iliioiisih the strait is, the op-
( piirtiiiiitv nl (d)iainin'; as ininli wood and water as can lie ri(|iiiri(l, without the least
(liliiciiilv. Another iireal advaiitaici' is. that hy liaiiliii;; (he seme diiiiir.' tiie siimnier
luoiitlis,' I'roni .laiiiiary to ;May, al the nioiith (d" iln river 01 nloim lh<' l.i aehes in Tort
Faiiiiiii', at the (iist ipiartrr Hood, a plenliliil Mipply ol lisli ina\ he oliiained. Kxeellent
/i>li an- also eaiinlil at the aiiehorai;e with the hook and line, at all seasons, early in thu
1 iiiiiniiii" or late ni the evei'iii','- I'i'^h may al>o he (ditained with the seine at any other
1 i placf wliere there are riveis. I''resli\vater Hay and I'nri (lallaiit are »(|naliy pmduelive.
ill On tin: outer coast of'Tierra del l'uei;o an exeell' m lisli iiia\ l/r eau!:!!! in the kelp.
]);irrrinns for 2)(iss'ni!i- thruiigli tin' Slruil nf .\l<i,ii(illiiUiis, fii,m ll,r J'ddjir l„ llii AllmUic.
The advantage which a ship "ill deiivc IV passing llncni-h the strait, iVoin the I'a-
cilic to the Atlantic — Cor there iiiiist he some jireat one to iinhiee the seaman to entan-
iile his ship with the land when lair winds and an open sea are helore him— is very fireat.
Alter passim; thron^h the strait, the prevaihn^ winds hein^ wj-sterly, and more Ireiiiiently
iiom the northwarii than iVom the southward (d* west, they are lair lor his riiimiii.t; up the
coast ; or if not, the shiji is not liahie lo receive iiinch injury Irom the sea, u liicli is com-
l)arati'v(dy smooth; whereas, to a ship pas^iiii; roiind the Horn, ilthe wind he north-west
she must f,'» to the eastward ol' the Falkland Islands, and he exposed to sironj,' gales,
ami a heavy heam sea, and hiiij the wiiirl to make her northinj;. To a small vessel tlie
adviiitajii; is inealciilahle ; lor, hesides lilliiij; her hidd with wood and water, she is en-
;il)led to escape the severe weather that so const nitiy reigns in the hij^her latitudes oi'
tiic .Soutli Atlantic Uceaii.
Comi.ii,' Irom the northward it will he advisahle to keep an oirmj; until the western en-
tnince (,1 the strait is well under the lee, to avoid heiiijL' thrown upon the coast to tlie
norihv.ard of Capo Victory, which is rui:i;ed and inliospitahle, and, lormiiiij; as it were a
hreakwater 10 the deep rcdlin;; swell of the ocean, is tor some miles oil' iVinj^ed hy a cross
liollow sea almost amountiii'; to a ripplinu;.
'J'he land id' Cn\)v. \ictory is hi^h and rus;i;ed, and much hroi.en; and if the wcatlicr
bo not very thick, will ho seen long before the Kvaimelists, which are not visible above
the liori/.on from a ship's deck, for imu'c than lour or live leai;ues.' Pa>;s to the southward
of them, and steer forCajJO Pillar, which makes like a hii;li island. In calm weather do
not |)ass too near to the cape, for tht; ('urreiit som-iimes sets out, and round tlie Cape to
the southward ; but with a stroiiji wind get under the lee of it as soon as you jilease, and
steer alonj; the shore. In the iii<;ht it will be advisable to kee|) close to the land of the
south shore ; and if a ])atent loi; he used, which no ship should he without, your distance
will be corre( lly known. The course alom; shore, hy conipiiss, is E. i' S. and if the
weather he tlii(d<, hy keeping sight of the soutli shore, there will he no dKhculty in pro-
ceeding with safety.
The Adventure entered the strait on the 1st of April, IP.TO, at sunset ; and after pass-
ing within alfa mile of the islets off the Harbor of Mercy, steered E. J S., mag., under
close reefed topsails, braced by, the weather being so s(|ually and thick that the land was
frequently concealed from us; hut, it being occasionally seen, the water being quite
smooth, and the course steadily steeied, with the patent log lo mark the distance run,
we proceeded without the least anxiety, although the night was dark and the s(|uall.s of
wind and rain fre(|uent and violent. When abreast of Cape Tamar, that projection was
clearl distiiiguislied, as was also the laud of Cape Providence, which served to check
the distance shown by the pat(?nt log, but both giving the same results proved tliat we
had not been subjected to any current ; whereas the account by the ship's log was very
much in error, in consequence of the violence of the squalls and the huig intervals of
light winds, which rendercMl it imi)ossii)le to keej) a correct account of the distance. At
daybreak we were between Cape Monday and the (Julf of Xaultegua; and at 8 o'clock
we were abreast of Playa Parda, in which, after a calm day, the ship was anchored.
In the summer season there is no occasion to anchor any where, unless the weather
be very tempestuous, for the nights are short and hardly dark enough to require it, un-
iless as a precautionary measure, or for the purpose of procuring wood and water, the
* From the Adventure's dock, the eye being thirteen feet above the water, iliey were seen on the
Iborizon at the distance of fourteen miles.
018
IILII.NTH AMi:itI( AN COAST I'lLOT.
hcMt |il;u;f' (nr wliich ii I'dil Kiimiiic, wlit-ro the heiicliPM iiro Htrowcil with iihumh
]());.s iiMvill sciciMicJ wuDii, wliidi i.s wry Miipnior ti» the j^rffn wtiml that imiitt
\v\M' III' used.
lllo
other.
iNoiMilli^liiriihn.; ihi' Advi'iitun' ••x|)fiii'iii«'il no ctim-iit in the wcHtrrii psirtofii,
Hir.xU, tlii'i-t' in j^t'iii'iiillv a m t lo the iMxhvanI, wliich is more or U's^ U\\
('l^('lllll.<t:lllL'l■^4.
'I'in' ihicclHiii a :.tHii'^ih 111' till.' ciiiiciils an- c
lu'iiirilii
()
llii
,H{sv(\ hy liic ,1,
II'. Ill,
airs.
'I'lli' rliait uill lie a sllllirii'iit i:\w\f I'ol' vrs-.i U liuuiiil liivoliuli rioill til
<• uotw'iinl.
IIMiii
lar as Fiandu I'.ay, alirr uliicli a li'w iliii'<liitiis uill lie lu-cfssarv. Tlif land licii-sl
III- k('|il cliisi- on liiiard, to avoid tlii^ reel oil' tlic hoiitli-ucst mil of Santa Maj^ij
Mciiii.'; ain-ca.st ol'il, licar ;\\\,\\, kri'iiinpi; llic niiitli-»'aMl fxtrfinit) of IHi/ahclli Ul.imi
tlir .siai'l)(iaiil liou, until Mm sec Santa Martha in one w itii, or a littli- In tlif NomJiv,
4)1', the soiiili trend ol'tli" Sicond .Narrow, (Cape St. Vincent,) u liieii is the leadiii^m
lor the lair ehannel until yon I'-i"*'* the .spii of shoal soundings, which oxtonds a<!rii>s
St. Ma^dalena. 'I'here are also shoal somidinijs towards tjie soiith-uest end nl' Kl;
lieth Island. At hall'a mile idl'we had ') latlioiiis, ("ape St. X'incent la in t; then the Im,,
it' Santa .Martha open to liie northward ol liiat island. Keepin'^ the capv just in sj
"K
tl
l(> iioi'tliwarii ol
la .Marili.i, steer on and pass round the low iN. K. cxlreinityi
'Jin; tide here nets ac
Kli/.alielh l-land, oil' which aie sever.d tide eddie.-
channel.
HOW' steer
ild
lor th
<ecolli
I .\
irrow,
icepui
r th
('
M'
(i
t'ernilde as the low pr<i|i'iliii;4 (•.tienie ol llie noiiii sn
.sHirlioard liow
e;;ory, which wi
Ii be
d th
d N
ross i|)t
just 4
until yon are three miles past Saul i .Martha. The course may tl
directed for tin.' (.'ape, opeiiin;; it gradually on tin' larhoard liow as you approach
avoid the shnal that extends oil' it.
irrow, (III •]„.
it, tl)
If vou anchor in (irciiorv Jlav, which Is advisalde
tide Tor rnnnint; llndii.;h llie T'lrsl .Nai
row
haul
order to have tliu whole of the
up and keeji at a null- and a li;i
lni;i,
lie wil:,
the shore. When liie north eMreiuily ol' the sandy land ol' the Cape is in a Ii
the west extreme of tht; hijL;!! lalde land, you will he near the anchorage; then simrtfii
sail, and when the ^rceu slope lie-ins to open, you will have 14 lathoius : you niav iln-n
i: lUllIi,
UK lior or keep away to the N. M. and choose! a eonvenient depth, takinjf car
approach tiie shore, so i.s to liriiiu' Cape (!re;iory to the southward of S. hy W.J \\\
(liy compass.) Thi! Iiest berth is with the Cape heariiii; '^. S. W.
Hence, to the First Narrow the coiuse hy compass is due N. E.liy E.* The bd r
the entrance
heinu
()W, WI
II
not at lirst lie
per(
hut
on stceriii}; on you «ill lir^i
see .some hnnmiockv land, niakiuy; like islands. 'J'hcse an; hills on the eastern ur !■'
lie-
!>\;\\\ siile ol the
.N
iridvv .
ward
and this is at tin;
Soon al'terwards a llat low sand hill will lie seen to tin; mmli-
>. W. extreiiiily id' I'oiut llarranca. On aiiproaciiin;: the
Narrow at I miles oil', keep a cliliy heail, I or -J miles within the east side of the Nar-
row, open of the trend of I'oiiit Ihirranca, liy which you will avoid the shoal that ex-
tends olf the latter point. Vou should not iju into less depih than d fathoms. Almost
times of ihe (ide there are loni^ lines and patches (d'stroiii^ rippling.s through which jou
must pass. The sjioal is easily dislin^uished liy the kidp.
When the cliaiuud through the narrow bears by compass N. by K.J E., steer through
it; and that, or a N. N. K. course will carry you through. Ou each side, tlie baiikes-
tend.s oil' for some distance; but by keeping in mid-ehannel, there is no danger until the
clilly coast ne jiassei
tb
d, v\ hen reefs extend oil" either shore; I'm' souk
(list:
mee, par
ticularlv
off Cape Urange. The N. N. E. cours(> must he kept until the Peak of Cape Orange
bears S., and the northern Direction Hill W. S. W. or W. by S. i S. by compass.
Then steer E. N. E. for Cape Possession, taking care not to approacli too near to tli(
bank oil" Cape Orange, or the one on the north side of Possession IJay, for which tk
chart must lie consulted.
For a small vessel, the jias.sage thniugh the strait from west to east is not only easy,
but to be strongly reeomuiendid as the best and safest route. Indeed, 1 think the jii"
sage would be ipiite as expeditious, and. |ierha|is, much safer to enter the (lulf (d Trii-
idad, and pass down the Conception Strait, tin; Sarmiento or St. Estevan Channt'l.saci
Smyth's Ciiamiid, and enter the strait at Cape Taiiiar. In tli(!se channels luirtherlj
winds prevail, and there is no want of convenient and well-sheltered anchorages fur tlie
night, many of which have already been mentioned, and multitudes of others, and per-
haps much better ones, might be Ibuiul.
* If from the Second Narrow, N. K. \ V.. will he the (■(iinpass course ; hut I slioiild rccommcnil
: sliiji hauling up to the iiorihward until ahreasi of Cape (ireuory, and then to steer as above.
CilJLF
That immenM
In till! norihvvarrf
eii isi of .North A
Three decrees
the .\. E. one mi
the parallel ol' 2ij]
'J(>' K. by S., chii
sissippi, and lat.
lent and exact dir
\V. part of Cuba,
winds round Cap
ward, to the norti
of Florida, into tl
'i'he Derrotttro
space included be
riaveral. The sin
like a river, ciondu
(irst to the E. .\.
by which keys tin
pursues on the pa
dining a little to t
" On the iin-ridi
K. S. E. and S. E
the sdntjierii dilFe
eddy eurr<Mit nv;\
The disiinetion is
only from the ine
out from the ooas
'■ .\s the veloci
its strength as Ire
this (ihaimel, havi
curately to estahl
the velocity of th
We say during tli
use of meridian a
allihidcs of thr /ili
■J//III cannot hr in r
lalitiidcs dediircd
jiro.rimifif nf thr :<
as much a.s possil>li
of the operation i
tained the veloeii
and this knowled
lalitiule ; because
by the current, y(
current, and with
and departure vvh
of the ship with tl
still approximate
seatnan-likecond
For those who
1. Tint it is m
it is the farthest
which is desirabU
2. That, as yoi
notwithstanding
ought, with the u
blunt's amkuican coast pilot.
r»i9
CJULF STttE\:?l, AI\» fJiTRAHT OV 1 LORIDA.
Tint immense ritrrcnt whirli rontiinially "ipfs fn.m llip fiiilfs of Mrxicd niid I'Mor'nh,
U) lilt; iiorlliwiird iiiid iiortli-onstwiird, sIid'.IiI he well iiinliTsfoorl, as ail wlio naviiiatf tlio
coiixt of North Ainrrica, cxiiiTifncc more or ii-ss of its indnciict'.
'J'hrrt! de^rett to the. S. N. K. of Vera Cni/.. the curri'iit liiis Ix-cii foiinil sptting to
thi' N. K. o"u' milf an hour. 'I'hcii N. N. K. and N. Iiy K., mid ayaiii N. K., nearly to
the piiralicl of J'»V^. I"",^- '" '■"• "'"''*' '' channes inirr to the fast, and liccomcs. in lat.
•J()^ K. hv S., chanijini; soiitliward to S. K. hy S. In tliii diriTiioii of ihf Kivcr Mi«-
MSMJppi, luid lat. VJ'j' :W N., the current sets Variously to tlw sonth-easiward. Its ex-
lent ami exact dirertion are here iinkMowii. hiil i; is certain, th it settiiMj; towards the N.
\V. |»;irt ol Cuba, and slrikini,' on tli- hanks of Isahella and Cojorados, a porlion of it
winds round ("ape Antonio to tlie south-eastward, wliile the ^reat l)ody of it sets rnst-
ward. to the norrhwanl of Cuha, windin;; to K. N. K., N. K., and N., through the Strait
of Kloriria, into the Atlantic Ocean.
The Di-rroturo de las Antillas says, " Uy the .><trait of Florida, we understand the
space inrludi'd hetween the lueridian'ol' the 'Dry Tortuuas, anil the parallel of (Jape ('a-
iiaveral. The simple in>i|)cctiori of the chart will show tins to he a hed orcoiirse, which,
like a river, eondurls the water to the nurihvvard. 'I'his river, or f^enrr.ii current, dows
(irst to the K. N. K. as far as the meridian of the western part of the Douiile .Shot Keys,
hy winch keys the stream is diverted from K. N. K. to N. by H., tlie direction wliicli it
pursues on the parallel of Cajie l''lori<Ia; tiienee to ('ape (Janaveral it runs norlli, iu-
clininil a little to the east.
"On the meridian of the Havana; stripes of current are at times found seitinq; to flie
K. S. K. and .S. K. from the Tortusjas soun linns. C'are should he taken not to contuse
liie sdiitiiern diirerences. caused hy this hraiudi of the current, with those causerl hy iha
fildy current near the Colorados — the one giving easit-rn departure, the otiier wpit.
The distinction is very clear, and can admit of no d()ul)t, hecau.e ilie eddy current is met
only from the meridians of Cavanas and ISay Iloinla to Cape Antonio, and not fartlier
out from the coast than the |)aralle[ of -J .'3 de:;rees.
'• .\s tiie velocity of the current varies, it is rerjnisite for every navigator to ascertain
its strenijth as fre:|iiently as |)ossih!e, while wiliiin tlie stream. Kvery one who enters
tills (iliannel, liaviii;; marked well eitlier the lands otCulia or the l-'lorida Keet, so as ac-
curately to establish this point of departure, oui;ht to dftermine in his first day's work,
the velticitv of the current hy the ilid'erence of latitude, hy account anil observation.
We say during the Hist day's work, because the ijenerality of common navigators make
use of meridian altitudes of the sun alone, to find the latitude ; hut it is very clear, that
allUitilrs of ihr ji/iinrfs iiml Ji.vcil stars nii/rfit not to hr iirr^lrctrd ; not onh/ hrrnuse hy this
you cannot hr in (hnitit of your real, httilU'/c, hut also hcnnisc thry may Itc more eravL than
latitudes deduced from meridian altititdi s of the /iiin, n-hm that luminary passes in the
^nonmitij of the zenith, and hcrause these repeated ohsrrrations during the nisht assume^
as much as possihtc, the situation of the ship. Thus you may may s;o on, with a clear idea
of the operation of the current, and the way that the ship is making. Havins; ascer-
tained the velocity of the current, use can be made of it to find the ship's departure,
and this knowledge will be most iin|)ortant when you fail in obtaining observations for
latitude; because, in such a case, wanting a knowledge of the diirerence of latitude given
hy the current, you will he in want of every thing; hut if you know the velocity of the
current, and with it the course which it follows, you may find the dilference of latitude
and de|)arture which the current gives, and which, though it will not give the position
of the ship with that precision with which it might be obtained by latitude observed, will
still approximate sufTiciently to the truth to enable one to avoid danger, if prudence and
seaman-like contluct are combined."
For those who have little experience in the art of navigation, we add —
1. That it is most convenient to direct your course in mid-channel, not only because
it is the farthest from danger, but because you will there have the strongest current,
which is desirable. (.See Remarks of Mr. Romans on the Gulf Stream.)
2. That, as you cannot ascertain with all necessary certainty the position of the ship,
notwithstanding the rftles given to diminish the Trcrs occasioned by the currents, you
ought, with the utmost care, to shun the eastern coast of Florida, as being very danger-
82
650
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ous, the tirade wind blowing upon it, while there is not the least risk in rnnnins; alop*
the Salt Key Banit, and thecdc;e of the Great Hanii of Bahama. Upon the l;\iter. ;iKn^
you meet with good MncJiora^cs, very (it to lie in during the hard northerly gulfs c\y,'.
rienced between NovemI)er and Maich, and which do not fail to cause much dniin ,>
and somctitups even force vessels to heiir away, which is always dangerous, for tlic wp .
ther is generally thick, with such winds, and the greatest danger will be to run, in on. ,,,
theiTi, ashore upon the coast of Cuba, when hoping to have made Havana or Mataiiz,,
Therefore, so soon as there is an appearance of a northerly gale, the best way is, if nc -
the Srilt Key Bank, to anchor on it ; and if near the (Jieat Bank, to approach the edcci;
it, in order to be able to anchor when it may be necessary ; for, although you may \u^..
a hard norther, so long as you can lie to in it, you ought to pursue your voyage, as the
current "'ill certainly carry the ship through the strait.
3. It is very necessary to sight the keys on the bank, even though you have no feara
a norther, and there may be occasions in which every exertion should be made to ^^,
them, especially if, from want of observations, the situation of the ship is not well kiimi,,
4. When, owing to calms or light winds, a vessel not bound to the northward is ,
danger of being carried through the strait by the current, she ought immediately to »;.
preach the edge of the Salt Key Bank, or of the Great Bahama Bank, and rriin
from thence by the Santaren Channel to the coast of Cuba, witlnuit trying to beat L ,
the lost ground ; for by doing this, she would only render the chance of being carriej
through more certain.
6. Should you involuntarily approach the coast of Florida, you should take extrir.
dinary care to examine whether you have advanced out of the general current, and i , '
the eddy. That you may know this, observe the eddy forms a remarkable and visii^
line between it and the general current, which line of division is, in many places, oiiiii
sight of land; that in general you have no soundings on it. anil that i' lows, not oniv
by the change in the color of the water, but that also in it, during th greatest ca!iii<,
there is a kind of boiling or overfalling of the water. From this line of division tlipin.
ter gradually changes color, so that near the Florida Keys it is a beautiful sea green, mi
at last it becomes almost as white as milk.
6. When in the eddy, you have to make the correction of currents on courses entirplv
different from those in the stream. This is the more necessary to be attended to, be-
cause, from ignorance of this circumstance, many have been shi|)wrecked.
7. When you enter the channel, or strait, from the Tortugas Bank, with the/nffn-
tion of passing through, take care to become certain of the land of C!uba, or soiiicpnrt
of the R^ef of Florida, in order to have a good departure ; lor although the lamuiles
and soundings on the Tortugas Bank are more than suflficient to ascertain the place of
the ship, yet the variable set of the current toward the Havana may produce a seniis
error, if not properly attended to. The meridian of the Havana is, in a word, the best
point of departure forshijjs bound to the north-eastward.
At (ibout I3i degrees north of Cape Antonio, the current has at times been found settin;
to the S. W., winding towards the northern edge of the Yucatan Bank ; but at a ikm
thence eastward, setting nearly S. E. 0(f the west end of Cuba, at 10 leagues .\,\V.
from Cape St. Antonio, it has been found setting S. W. by W. one mile an hour. But
these cannot be considered as its "general directions."
The stream in mid-channel, on tlie meridian of Havana, acquires the direction olE.
N. E., and velocity of about 2\ miles an hour. On the meridian of the southcriiiiiost
point of Florida its velocity, at about one third over from the Florida Reel's, is enra
IDonly 4 miles. Between the Bcmini Isles and Cape Florida, its direction is about N.
by E., and velocity nwre than 4 miles.*
On the Cuba side the stream is weak, and it sets to the eastward. On the oppnsiie
side, along the Florida Reefs and Keys, there is a re-flow or counter current, setiiii;; m
the S. W. and W. By the assistance of the latter, ntany small vessels have i)a\matei
through the strait froin the north.vard ; but this navigation is too dangerous to be ii!-
tempted by strangers. The tides set strong among these reefs, and are more paiticii-
larly described in this work.
The winds are found to allect the position of the stream considerably. Between Cii^a
and Florida northerly winds press it southward towards the shore of the former; soiiili-
erly winds have a contrary elject. When turhed to the north, easterly winds press ino
the Florida side, and westerly winds nearer to the Bahamas. Southerly winds cause it
to spread, and so may those from the north.
* " The calculations of the velocity of the Gulf Stream are not to hv depended upon. I lii»«
found it setting at the rate of .5 knots, and even upwards. This was on the Kith and J 7th nl Au.
gust, 1817. On the 19th and 20th B'ebruary, 1819, it seemed to be imperceptible. In September,
1819) it set at much about the rate described in the charts.'-'
In the Strait ol
storm, it opposes
elianiiels and (>\w
coast. Shipping
'I'lie water is siipi
riiiiiiiiig against il
the Strait of Flori
" Sailed from J
was oil" the S. W.
^i' 47' W. Hert
an hour. Al 7h.
W. " says Capt. 1
about three or fot
time the wind was
wind not sot a litt
side, where we fo
the Florida Strea
" After roundin
latter days of Maj
by no mrans so st
we had a right to
in tlu- hour. Tin
an e\eel!cnt cliroi
" When we ele
the inlhience of tl
came on to blow 1
by S. from Cape
favorite track, ant
ring this gale, for
W. S. W. but in
setting finely to tl
"On .lune i23d,
2G' (by altitud"S a
24 hours rim, and
true difference of
had been runninn
miles. Allowing
sequently, on mal
" After the gale
W. and S. \V. n
a fine north-eastei
lat. 43^ 35' and lo
* hi the month o
•.he lii!i;hcst irccs or
master, was carried
The vessel bilsed ir
was found lo have
lantie Pilot.]
t A scientific nav
get ..•'.t of it as carl
the current will not
generally attend tha
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
G51
In the Strait of Florida, within the Baliamns, wlicri a northerly gale increases to a
storm, it opposes the stream in its course, tlioiigli adverse ])ouer causes it to fill all the
ciianiicls and opeiiiriiis among the Martyr Lsles and ilei Is, and to ovortlow all the low
(■((list. Sliippini; have even hcen carried over the low keys, atul left dry on shore.*
'I'iic water is supposed at limes to have arisen to the height ol'oO feet, and to have been
niiiiiiii'j: aj,Minst i he fury of the winds at the rate of 7 miles an hour. During these limes
the Strait of Florida exhibits a scene terrific beyond description.
Remarks on (lit Stream, ^-c. hy Captain J. Steele Park',
".Sailed from Jamaica for London, on the 20th May, 18-34. At noon, on the 27th,
was otf the .S. \V. side of Cuba, in latilude 'Jl° 'J()', longilude by ehronomeiers and lunarf
-1 ^ 47' W. Here was discovered a current settiiifi to the N. \V. at ihe rate of two miles
111 hour. At 7h. .'!0m. Cape Antonio bore N. W. o or (> miles. The current to the N.
W. "' says Capt. Park, "swept us into the (Julf of Mexico ; and there we were beating
about three or four days, making northing and westin? in S|)ite of our teeth. All this
time the wind was easterly, and we miiiht have cruised about there till Christmas, had the
wind not aot a little to the southward of east, which enabled us lo get over to the N. E.
side, where we found the current running directly opposite to the former, being now ia
the Florida Stream.
"After rounding; Cajjc Antonio, the land of Cuba was not seen. At this time, (the
setting finely to the N. E.
"On June i23d, at noon, hit. .37° 51', long. 6l" 54' ; June 24th, lat. 39° 56', long. 57°
2G' (by altitu<l"s and chronometer.) Here the ship really made 4° 28' of easting in the
OJ li/Aiirc viiM 'iiirl tlio \r\tr ir'wm i\ti\\T 'X^ 1^' In tll*» C'll>-ifi tifim nnrfllinrr ivnQ mfi/lA T^M*
24 hours run, and the log gave only 3*^ 16'. In the same time northing was made. The
true dilference of latitude was lv.''> minutes, but the log gave about 80 only. The vessel
had been running all the time E. by N. by compass, and went through the water 173
miles. Allowing half a point of variation, gives the true course N. E. by E. ^ E. Sub-
sequently, on making Scilly, there was not an error in the watch of a single mile.
"After the gale from the northward subsided, the winds became variable between N.
W. and .S. W. Tiie ship passed iie;ir the Tail of the (ireat IJank, and continued to carry
a fine north-easterly current at the i 'te of 30, 25, and 20 miles a day, until she reached
lat. 43° 35' and Ion. 36° 50', where it ceased."
* In the month of Soptrmbcr, 1769, there happened an inundation, w
the highest irces on the Cayo Lar.'ra, &.c., and durinfr wliicii tiie Lrdb
master, was carried over the reef I)> tiie N. W. current of tiie stream, can
The vessel bilged in shallow water, but an anchor was tbrown out, and
was found to have grounded on Elliot's Key, with its anchor among the
lantic Pilot.]
tA scientific navigator says, "When in the Gulf, eastward of Ilatteraa
get ,..:t of it as early aa possible, especially with a strong N. E. wind, for
tiie current will not compensate for the effects of the destructive sea and
generally attend that part of the ocean. "
hich covered the tops ol
ury Snow, John Lorain^
sed liy a gale from N. EJ,
the next day the vessel
trees. — [De Brahm's Au
, I generally endeavor to
I think the advantage of
squally weather, which
652
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Currents from the Bai/ of Honchiras, and Ihence through the Strait of Florida, at ob-
served by Capl. \V. J. Caj/es, in Jan. 1824.
Jan. 16 Lat. 17° 55' Long. 87° 30' Current 16 miles southerly in tlie 24 hours.
17
18
24
87
8
14
do.
do.
18
18
14
86
35
16
do.
do.
ly
1')
31
85
58
5
do.
northward.
20
20
6
85
17
()
do.
do.
21
20
47
85
39
5
do.
do. and 20 eastward.
2-2
22
9
85
44
2')
do.
northward.
2:3
23
13
84
8
11
do.
do.
24
2:j
22
82
42
no current.
25
24
47
80
10
9
mil
es northward, and 55 eastward
26
20
62
79
54
49
do.
northward.
27
28
22
79
50
29
do.
do.
28
30
0
78
34
37
do.
do.
29
30
31
76
6
24
do.
do.
From the S. W. corner of the Tortugas Bank ,the current has, at times, been four,!!
to set S. 8. W. directly over to the Cohtrados. IJut between the Tortugas ami Liv
Hunda, or Port Cavaiias, it takes its rcfiular set to the eastward.
The boisterous east, N. E. and N. winds, wliich atlect the CiuH' Stream, generallr
begin in September, and continue until March.
On the southern edge of the Tortugas Soundincs, lat. 24° 30', lone. 83° 30'. ilif cur-
rent sets about E. by S. 20 miles in the 24 hours ; and in lat. 24°, long. 82° 2U', it ^ds
about E. by N. 42 miles.
ticmarlcs on the Stream, hy Captain W> J. Munteath.
Between latitude 25° 40', and 28° 20', Captain Montcath found the current in the
Strait had set 80 miles in the 24 hours of .June 27, 1820. On the southern border of
the stream, (northward of the parallel of Cape Hatteras,) 6th .Tuly, 1820, lat. 35 -jn to
36° 30', l(in^. 72° 30' to 71° 3', Captain "SI. found the current setting N. E. 7.')niilej
in the 24 hours. Next day, July 7, to lat. 37° 40', long. (.9°, he fout.d it N. b:\ K. i"6
miles in 24 hours. On the following day, July 8, to lat. 38° 38', long. 67°, it ran N.o8'
E. 30 miles. July 9, to lat. 39° 10', lotig. 66° 10' westward, only 10 miles. Tlie ob-
servations were continued each day by Chronometer, which agreed within a few trilcs.
The Stream, from lal. 26° to 28°, generally sets north, rather easterly ; from '.'-"to
about 31°, it appears to run north, inclining a little in the direction of the coast, r.ilhor
westerly ; it thence siuldenly turns to N. E. by E. or a little more easterly, to Intiiiide
35", or about tlie parallel of Cape Hatleras, where it runs within about 18 miles ol the
Cape.
The Stream, in the neighborhood of the const at Cape Hatteras, inclines moro to ilie
eastward, at the rate of about 2.', knots ; then the shoals of Nantucket apjiear to iVotit it,iiti(l
to throw it olfto the E. N. E. and E. by N. northerly, in about the parallel ol' :j'Jr,
longitude 63',°, it has been found to run at the late of two knots between E. by N.anil
E. N. E. "
Col. Williams, in his " Thermomefrical Navigation," states that the whirlpools on the
northern edge of the Stream, have been seen in lat. 41° 57', long. 65° 1'. He also ob-
served great (|uantities of weed, supposed to be on the northern edge o( the Stream in
latitude 41° 5.'!', long. 65° 33'. It has sui)se(jucntly been ascertained by Lieut. Cliarks
Hare, R. N. that on the meridian of 57° W. in the summer season, the nortlirrn edte
of the Stream ranges up to 42^° N. atid even in the winter months to above 42° N. Tlii>
hss been confirmed by twenty-five voyages across the Atlantic, assisted by chronometer,
thermometer. Ale., the last o(' wliich was made in the fidl of the year 1824.
it is. however, to be considered, that a north, N. E. or east wind forces the Stream
towards the coast, contracts its l)readili, aiul thus increases its rapidity. On tlio roc
trary. S. W. west and N. W. winds, ('«. . •; the stream farther into the ocean, anil (limi-
nishes its strength-* It is clear, then, ijat the Stream fluctuates in its direction ad
* An experienced navipator, before quoted, says " It is always found tlint the strongest current
is in the warmest water. I have observed the greatest degree of heat of the (iulf, between the men-
dian of Cape Hatteras, and that of Nantucket, to vory at difl'crent times from "a*^ to 67" of fuh-
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
653
force, according to circunistani «, and no absolute rule can ho (jivcn for ascertaining its
more ordinary boundaries ; it i 'relbre follows, that a description of tlie itidications
bv wliicli it may be known, is of lore ii)ii)ortancc. These are, tlie appearance and letn-
ijer.iture of the water; the Stream in its lower latitudes, and usual eourse in fair wea-
ther, where it (lows uninterrui)ted!y, may l)e known by its siuooth and clear surface, and
bine color. The nuirsin of the Stream is marked by a ripjilc on its edi;e ; the water in
some i)!aces appears like boiling water ; and in other places, it foams like the waters
of a cataract, even in dead calms, and in places which are fathomless ; and during strong
,tV. £■ winds, that part from Cape Roman to the north and cast breaks violently, so much so
llidl it has been mistaken far shoidtt during the night.
Un the outer edge of the .Stream, especially in fair weather, there are great ripplings,
wliich are very percei)tible ; and it has been observed, by many navigators, that in the
(Jiilf the water does not sparkle in the night, but with siiulh-castcrh/ u.'inds it docs as much
as in other par's of the ocean. The appearance of the weed called (iulf-weed is also an
indication of being in or near the Stream, as it is never seen far north of it.
•am, generillT
had the wind a-head all the way : take your departure and stand for the Stream : so soon
as you fnid the water to increase in heat about half as much as you know it would when
in the stream, heave about and stand for the coast; you will infallibly discover the edge
of sonndings by the cooling of the water; theu stand otf again, and so on to the end of
tlie voyage ; when it is almost certain, that the distance would be run in a shorter time
than if there were no .Stream, for you would have a favorable inside current. On the
return passage, take your departure, and run otf till you get into the warmest water,
which will be the middle of the stream, and take the advantage of its currents.
The following fact may serve to illustrate the propriety of these directions. In.Iune,
J 798, the iMail-l'acket for Charleston, iiad 25 days' passage in going, but returned in 7.
'J'he captain accounted for this by having calms, or very light airs and a northerly eur-
This was the true cause, lie was in the middle of the stream, where there gene ■
alms or light winds; the edges only, which come in contact with colder re-
After being in the latitude of Cape Hatteras, he found him-
rent
rally are r
gions, being tempestuous
gums, oeuig leiupesiuous. ^lu^r ueioi; iii ine itiiiiuue oi \^i\\it: niiiit-rits, iie iiiunu iiuvi-
self in that of Cape Henry, (.']7 leagues to the northward.) The vessel, however, ar-
rived at last ; and on the return voyage, the ca|)tain steered the same course back again ;
and, with the sanu? ii;;ht airs, he performed the voyage in 7 days. Had this captain
known the use of the thermometer, need he to have been much longer in going than in
coming .'
The thermometer is not only useful for ascertaining when in the Gulf Stream, but it
is likewise advantageous in discovering the approach to soundings on the Coast of North
America betwcHUi Ca))e Canaveral ami the island of iN'ewfoundland.
In .June, 17')!. ca|)tain \V. Billings, of Philadelphia, iti latitude ."5')'^ long. '}(P, abreast
of the Bank of Newfoundland, found that the mercury in the thermometer fell 10 de-
grees. It was near the same place that a similar observation was made by Dr. Franklin,
in November, 177b, and aiu)ther by Mr. William:, in Novendier, 17f^'J, who has observed
that, '• by the coincidence of these three jomaials, at so great a distance of time, and
without any connitxion with each other, this imptirtant fact seems to be established; A
n:iL'igulor niuji discover his <ij)pro(/rh toirards objects of danger, ichen he is at such a dis-
tance as to be able easibf to avoid them, h>f atlentireh/ e.vaniining the temperature of the sea,
the water over baid<s and shoals being colder than that of the deep ocean."
thedificrence of
ita
( v.>>.|<v 1111 i«i v^ io iiiiiiAi. iii.v.1* cum i^uir,^! in;n i.iiiiii^iY uy Llir; itn^l lliai II v;uiln;S IIUIII IIIC I'rO-
pical reizions, where the mean tem|)erature is 8'2", and it requires a long time before so
large a body of water loses or changes its temperature in a very great degree.
At the edge of the grand Baidv of Newfoundland, the water has beei. found 5 degrees
colder than the deep oceati to the eastward. 'JMie highest part of the bank is lo'deg.
colder still, or 15 deg. colder than the ocean eastward.
i-cnlicit, and ilio strouOTst ciirriMit to ditler fnini 3 to l\ miles per hour; that the breadth of the
Strcuni currcru is much less than is generally supposed, and that the winds cause a great effect on
the Gulf: for instance, a wind that would produce a current of one knot, would retard one of 3
knots to 2 knots if opposed to it ; and would accelerate the same to 4 knots, if in the some direction ;
and that a wind crossing a current obliquely, would atlcet if ns the sine of the ande at which it is
opposed. The direction of a current cannot, however, be materially changed, when forced against
an opposing barrier."
the water over banks and shoals being colder than that of the deep ocean."
Others, also entitled to credit, believe the thermometer only indicates thedificrence
temperature caused by goin<r into or leaving the Oiilf Stream, on the principle that
temperature is inlluenccd and governed entirely by the fact that it comes from the Tr
654
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
On the const of New-Enj^liind, near Cape Cod,* the water out of soundings is R ofjQ
deg. wanner tlian in soundiims; and in the stream it is about H degrees warmer still, so
that, in coining from tiie eastward, a (all of H deg. will indicate your leaving the stream
and a farther I'ail of H deg. will indicatt! your being on soimdings.
On the coast from Cape Ilenlopc ii to Cape Uemy, the water, out of soundings, is 6 dp..
warmer than in soundings; and in the Stream, about o degrees warnuM- still; so tinit.m
coming from the eastward, a fall of 5 deg. will indicate your leaving the stream, anilj
farther fall of 5 deg. will give notice of soundings.
Mr. Williams recommends lo seamen to take three tliernmmeters. " Let tlieni,"l]e
says, " be kept in one place some days previous to sailing, in order to try tlieir unilbrmiiv,
The plate should be made of ivory or nntal, for wood will swell at sea; and as the ehi,;
tube will not yield, it is from this reason very liable to break : bell-metal is the best. Lf|
the instrument be (ixed in a s(piare metal box, the bottom of which, as high as the marjl
30^, should be water tight ; so that, in examining the degree of heat, the ball niavle
kept in the water; the remainder of the length should be open in the front, with onlvuo
or three cross-bars to wanl olf any accidental b\i)\4, like the thernu)meter used by IJrtw.
ers. Fix one instrument in some i)art of the ship, in the shade, and in ojien air, butaj
much out of tlie wind, and in as dry a place as possible. The after part of one of ||,(
after stanchions, under the quarter rail, may answer, if no better place can be found,
Let the secoi instrument be neatly slung, with a sufficiency of line to allow it lo
tow in the dead >> ter of the wake.
Put the other away safely, to be ready to supply the place of either of the others ia
case of aecident.
About the edges of the stream there is generally a current running in a contrarv
direction, which is accelerated by the wind, in proportion to its st. engtli, blowing dn.
trary tc the stream, and retarded, or perhajjs altogether obstructed, by the wind hlmci;
in the direction of the stream. In the latter case, the limits of the stream will he ex-
tended.
In the winter, when the cold upon the land is most intense, which is genernilv hp.
tween December and iMarch, heavy and continued gales very frequently prevail, lilii,];
commonly proceed from between the north and west, across the course of the (JulfSirum,
-from Cape Hatteras until past (ieorge's IJaidi, and bend its direction more to tlieeiist«;iri|;
being aided at the saine time by the discharge of the great bays and rivers, increased
by the force of the wind blowing down upon them, and the constant supply of s(;eam
that passes along the coast of the Carolinas, the whole produces so strong a current to
the eastward as to render it impossible for a ship to approach the coast until tiu'iiisa
change of wind.
During the prevalence of a southerly or easterly wind, which is not so common iiere,
it has been found tint the current is forced close to, and in some parts upon the snuud.
iings. From a scientific nautical genileinan we received the following, viz.. wliile (iff
■Cape Tjookout, in 11 fathoms water, he liad a strong current from the southward, (nviiu
entirely to the Ciulf current. 'J'his also proves the Culf influenced by winds. Bein;
thus peiU in between the wind and the slioal grounds near the shore, the brendihu
greatly diminished, and tlie velocity proportionably increased. This circumstiincebas
"been, in particular, observed from about the longitude of Block Island, along the cil;;cs
of Nantucket Shoals, thence beyond (ieorge's Dank ; it has the same effect aion); the
coast of (ieorgia and jiart of South Carolina. In the first place, the southerly winds
•forced the current to the edge of the soundings, wheie it then ran from l\ to 2 knots;
.and, in the latter place, that the easterly wind forced the current upon soundins;s.
With west and N. W. winds, the Stream would be removed some league^- fintiieroii,
These remarks are sufficient to show the uncertainty of the boundaries or edges of the
Stream. These eddies on the inner edge are inconsiderable ; but on the outer one, in
Sfine weather, they are strong, and of considerable extent.
By an ingenious work, entitled " Therinometrical Navigation," written by Mr. Join
"Williams, and published at Philadelpliia, in 17')'), we are informed that Coininoilor'
Truxton lias often ascertained the velocity of the (Julf Stream, to the norilnvaid of Ca]t
Hatteras, and found it to be seldom less than one knot, and never more than two knoi-,
an hour. The temperature of the air and water witliout the Stream, was generally its
*;ime ; that is, the difference seldom exceeded 2 or 3 degrees ; the air being sonictiiiiti
the warmest, at other times the water.
i
* The bonk, from Cape Cod, extends almost ns far a.s Cape Suble, where it joins the banks of
Nova Scolia, deepening Kradunlly from 2i) to .')l) or 5.') fathoms, which depth there is in lai. 43'.
In crossiiii,' the bank l)elween lat. lOO 41' and hit. 43 \ the bottom is very reninrkabie. On ihe
out&ido it is tine sand, siiualintr gradually for several leagues. On the middle of the bank, it is
coarse sand or shingle, with pebble stones. On the inside it is muddy, with pieces of shells, aad
deepens suddenly from 45 or 18 to 150 or 160 fathoms.
Cnpt. Livingstoi
sidereal and solar
Capt. .loreal Colta
velocity."
Mr.VVilliams ob
deed, I have know
;hat is, between if
as you get on so
poitunity of deter
them a fivod Ihcniu
of the air, every t\
the (Uilf Stream,
temperature of tlif
out my voyage ; w
and afterwards for
gltude. It is of t
be acquainted witl
shorten your voya
it inconceivably ; .'■
rica, spoken Eun
banks of Newfonn
ing out of the St.,
general course of
Blunt, in 1832; ai
never to come nea
])iobability will be
which often runs a
N. W. when appr
course till you are
as before nientiom
bound in, to cross
or adverse winds,
voyage considerab
The course of
trolled, in a great
requires to be add
ports, when passit
tween these siioal
between them and
Bank, is in latitud
of Nantucket Son
Ships crossing i
possible ; or, it is
* By the journals
on the coast of Aiiu
of Mr. .1. Williams i
Gulf Stream at 70°,
1791, June, C
Si
ft.
Strcnm wi
The difference of he
tion hereafter, and a
contains all the reim
Captain A. Livin;
1817, I particularly
fathoms, it stood at
the course of an hoi
ward of Bermuda,
Jamaica it was 82^,
mnica.
t The following n
verpool paper, Janu
navigation of this oc
" The packet shi]
of the shortest passa
BLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
655
ilingsisPorlo
k'liniii'r Mill
iiig tlie strt
I. so
iilings, isoilc-.
till; so ihni.H,
.' stream, ami a
Let tlieiii."!:,
eir iiniforiiiiiv,
11(1 as the gl;i>i
the best. Le;
2;h iis tlie tn;„i
le b:ill innvi,.
, witli onKuo
used by bre«.
^wn air, \m,^
of one ol' i|,5
»n be found.
to allow it i,)
Ihe others
m
>n a contrary
, blowinmnij.
e wind Id im,,;
am will he es"
Seneraliy y.
prcviiil, whiii;
e(iul('Slrt;!|i;,
:)tlieeasi\\;iri|;
vers, iiitriM.sed
pply ofsoeam
:ig a current (0
until tlu-insa
common here,
)on the sniiiid-
:, viz. while otf
ithward, oHiiiJ
winds. lii'i:i;
the brendlhis
ftimstancelias
lona; the cd^ps
'Hect along ilie
ititherly winds
1^, to 2 knots;
undines,
ucs I'artiier oli',
or edsesot'ilif
3 outer one, in
I by Mr. Jolit
t Coninioilur'
hward ofCii:
lan two knoi;,
I generally i!i'
ing soniciinui
ns the bank!) of
c is ill lat. 43^
•kable. On ilie
the bank, it is
38 of £klls, aad
Cnpt. Livingston says, " it set me, ofT Cape Tlntterns, one degree and eight miles, by
siiirrea! and so!:ir observations, to the northward, in 1() hours by dead reckoning; and
(apt. .loreal Coltast, of Philadelphia, informed lue that it set occasionally with greater
vt'liu'ifv.
Tn the Str
:h
than th
*•
Mr.W^illianis observes, " In the r^treatu the water is inucli warmer than the air; in-
deed, I have known it 10 degrees ^varmer ; but so soon as you get within the Stream,
y hat is, between it and the coast,) the water becomes colder han the air; an<l the more
as voij get on soundings ;ind approach the shore.* If mariners who have not the op-
poitmiity of determining their longitude by celestial oliservations, will only cdrry uilh
thrm a ,e»W ihcniiomrter, and try the temperature of the water, and comjjare it with that
of tlie air, every two hours, they may always know when they come into, or go out of,
flip (iulf Stream. Indeed, I have always made a practice, when at sea, of comparing the
temperature of the air and water daily. ;ind often, very frequently during the day through-
out my voyage ; uhercby I immediately discovered any lliin^ ol' a current that way going ;
and afterwards found its strength and direction by observations for the latitude and lon-
gitude. It is of the utmost conse(iuence, in making a passage to and from Europe, to
be acquainted with this Gulf Stream ; as, by keeping in it when hound eastward, you
shorten vour voyage, and l)y avoiding it when returning to the westward, you facilitate
it inconceivably ; so much so, that I have frequently, when bound from Europe to Ame-
rica, spoken European ships, unac(|uaintcd with the strength and extent of it, olT the
banks of Newfoundland, and been in port a very ccmsiderable time before them, by keep-
ing out of the St;\ am, whereas they lengthened their passage by keeping in it. The
general course of the (Inlf .Stream is marked on the chart published by E. & G. W.
IJInnt, in lfi3'2 ; and I would advise those who make the northern passage from Europe,
never to come nearer the inner line of it, by choice, than 10 or XT) leagues ; and then the
probability will be, that their passage will be assisted by the help of a counter current
which often rniis within it. In coming olfa voyage from the southward, be sure to steer
N. W. when approaching the Stream, if the wind will permit you ; and continue that
course till yon are within it, which may be easily known by the temperature of the water,
as before mentioned. I have alway.s considered it of the utmost consequence, when
bound in, to cross the Stream as speedily as possible, lest I should be visited by calms
or adverse winds, and by these means drove far out of my way, which would prolong the
voyage considerably, especially in the winter season.
The course of ships bound from Europe, to the ports of the United States, is con-
trolled, in a great degree, by the operation of the Florida Stream. Little, therefore,
iequires to be added to the subject liere. Those bound to the northern and middle
ports, when passing the shoal grounds on George's Bank, should take care to pass be-
tween these siioals and the Stream. Also, when passing th(> Nantucket Shoals, to keep
between them and the .Stream. 'J'he south part of the most dangerous shoal on George's
Bank, is in latitude 41^ :W N. and the shoals extend to latitude 41° 5;}' 30" N. and that
of Nantucket South Shoal in latitude 41 ' 4' N.
Ships crossing the Stream, when bound to the westward, must get over as quickly as
possible ; or, it is clear that they will be carried far out of their course. |
* By the journals of Caiit. VV, Billings, of Philadelphia, it ajjpcars that in June, 1791, the water
oil the coast of America was at the tetnpcraiure ot 61°, and in the Gulf Stream at 77'^. By those'
of Mr. .1. Williams it appears, that in November, 17b9, the water on the coast was 47^, and in the;
Gulf Stream at 7(J0, viz. :
1791, June, Coast fifo 1789, Nov., Coast 47^ DifTcrencc between > Coast 14°
Str-am 77 Stream 70 June and Nov, ^ Stream 7
Stream warmer 16 Stream warmer i.'3
The difference of heat is therefore greater in winter than in summer. See the concluding observa»
tion bcl-eafter, and also the pamphlet published witii " Hlunt's Chart of the Western Ocean," whicb
contains all the remarks of Mr. Williams on the subject.
Captain A. Livingston says, " On my voyape from P'-iindelphia to Kingston, JamRica, October,
1817, I particularly attended to the thernionteter. Close o(f the mouth of the Delaware, in about 16
fathoms, it stood at 6uo ; on the inner edge of the Gulf Stream it rose pretty rapidly to CAP, and in
the course of an hour to 76°; nr.\t morning 78^, which heat continued till we were to ll'." south-
w'ard of Bermuda, whence it gradually increased until between Cuba and St. Domingo, and at
Jamaica it was 82^, which appears to me to he the mean temperature of the sea water about Ja.
maica.
tThe following notice relative to several short passages aeross the Atlantic, was given in a Li-
verpool paper, January, 1824, and affords a pleasing demonstration of improved knowledge in the
navigation of this ocean :
" The packet ship New- York, Capt. Thomas Bennrt, arrived here on Thursday last, after one
of the shortest passages wo believe yet made between New. York and this port. She sailed on the
656
BLUM S AMERICAIN COAST PILOT.
Tt has been remarked tliat, "ships from sea, approaching any part of the AmonVan
coast botwren hnnii Island and (Jajx! ilattcras, if in doubt aixjut their reckoniiij;, sjujuu
take notice of what is conirriorjly calhid the (inlf-weed, which is in j^reater plenty, iiuiliii
lar<;er clusters, to the eastward of the (iulf Stream than in it, where the spriL's arc tut
small and few. Witliin the Stream tin re is no weed, unless in rare instances, and iluro
the color of the water changes to a still darker and muddy color.
The outer edj^e of the bank olV this part of the coast appears to be very steep; f(,f j,
has been fre(|uently found that, while the lead has been ke|)t i,'oin<;, there hate beenrdiii)
4o fathoms, soon after, .'5"), and a mile nearer shore only 'J''> or 'JO I'athoins; from tiii.i
depths the shoaliuij to the shore varies in di(l'er(;iit directions.
Sir Charl(!s J}lai;den, M. 1). and F. 11. S. in the transactions of the Philosophical Si,,
ciety says, "during; a voyage to America, in the spring of the year 177b, I used iVrrpuiiiv
to examine the heat of sea water newly drawn, in onk'r to compare it with that of tlicinf.
We made our passage far to the southward. In this situation, the greatest heat ol'ijf
water, which f observed, was such as raised the (juicksilver in Fahrenheit's thernionif r
to 77i°. This happened twice; the fnst time, on the lO'.h of A|)ril in latitude 21° l(r\
and longitude, by our reckoning, 5J° \V., and the second time, three days aflerwanU, ■,
hit. 2'2'^ 7', and long, fjo^ ; but in general, the heat of the sea, near the tropic of Caiic-
about the middb? of April, was from 70^' to 77°.
"The rendezvous appointed for the fleet being ofl'Cape Fear, our course, on appni'l,.
ing the American coast, became north-westwiuil. On the •,'.'>d of April, the heat ol He
sea was 74 \ our latitude, at noon, '28'^ T N. Next day the heat was only 71° ; wcvifrj
then in latitude 2'J° 12'; the heat of the water, therefore, was now lessening veiv |m
in proportion to the change of latitude. The 20th, our latitude was , "51° 3'; buttiidij;,
we had thus gone almost 2^^ farther to the northward, (he heat of the sea was this dm ..
creased, it being 72° in the morning, and 72,1° jn the evening. Next day, 2Gth ol .\]>r,|.
at half past eight in the morning, 1 again plunged the thermometer into sea-watei. ;iii|
was greatly surprised to see the (juicksilver rise to 7H°, higher than 1 had ever obvpnriii'
even within the tropic. As the diltVrence was too great to be imputed to any acciilonj
variation, J immedialely conc(Mved that we must have come into the (iulf Slream, i!..
water of which still retained great ])art of the heat that it had acquired in the toniil/nif,
This idea was confirmed by the subsequent regular and (piick diminution of iIicIm;,!;
the ship's run for a (piarter of an hour had lessened it 2°, the thermometer, at i),ree
quarters after eight, being raised by sea-water, fresh drawn, oidy to 7t)'^ ; by niiip, (|;c
heat was reduccrl to 7:i^ ; and in a (juarter of an hour nujre, to 71° nearly ; all tliMime
the wind blew fresh, and we were going seven knots an hour on a north-western inurse.
The water now began to lose the fine transparent blue color of the ocean, and to 7i<^mm
something of a greenish olive tinge, a well known indication of soundings. Accnnlin^lv,
between four and five in the afternoon, ground was struck with the lead, at the ilepilii)!
eighty fathoms, the heat of the sea being then reduced to 6')°. Jn the (M)niso nt" ilip
following night and next day, as we came into shallower water and nearer the land, ilie
temperature of the sea graduallv fell to bo°, which was nearly that of the air attiietime,
Unfortunately, had wea'.her on the 2fith, prevented us from taking an obscivaiion if
the sun; but, on the 27th, t);ough it was then cloudy at noon, we calculated ilirlaiitmlp
from two altitudes, and found it to be X',° 26' N. The difference of this latitude l'ni!!i
that which we had observed on the 2.)th, being 2° 2!)', was so much greater than cukII
be deduced from the ship's run, marked in the loir book, as to convince the seamen tl:;i
we had been set many miles tc 'le northward by the current.
On the 25th, at noon, the longitude by our reckoning was 74° W., and 1 believe ihf
computation to have been ])retty just; but the soundings, together with the latilnii.
will determine the spot where these observations were made, better than any rpclaniiii;
from the eastward. The sliip's run on the 2()th, from 'J in the forenoon to 4 in the afur
noon, was about 10 leagues on a N. W. by N. course: soon afterwards we hove toi:
order to sound, and hnding bottom, we went very slowly all night, till noon tiie nt\:
day."
From these observations, I think it may be concluded that the Gulf Stream, ;il)o :
the 33d degree of north latitude, ami the 7()tli (l(>gree of longitude west of 'ireinwii!:.
is, in the month of April, at least G degrees liotter than the water of the sen tlirniiji
which it runs. As the heat of the sea water evidently began to increase in the eveni.;
of the 25th, and as the observations show that we were getting out of the current wiiea
I first tried the heat in the morning of the 2bth, it is most probable that the ship's run
during the night is nearly the breadth of the Stream, measured obliquely across; tint
16th of December, and arrived here in the morning of the 1st of .Tanuary, being little more than 15
days. The Mary Catherine, which left Charleston on the lUtli of December, made her voyage t'r.nn
port to port in 19 days. The Marmion arrived in the evening of the 7ih January, in 18 days from
Charleston, and two more from that town."
as it blew a fresh b
lime between the I
iriay be estimated ;
jjomiils the stream
excluiliiig the rock
low water that i'.\
correspondence ol
principles of hydr;
from the chtimi'l I
" If the heal ol
formed by compari
Kingston, in Janiai
may iie estimated
the continent, whic
perhajis a d-grei' o
the win)le iiay : Id
bility in the snp|)i)>
surface, agrees in
whole year, in thai
water, as it issues ii
riation of tempi'ral
general mass. At
fore, ill its wiiolr
stantly running tin
on'ly 4- of licit, tl
supjuised original i
diminution ol tin-
of the vast body oi
locily of its niotii
every i)art of' it, in
water in the siirroi
be the best means
stance of its movei
northward, is ctnel
On the 2'')tli Sep
army up (Jhesape;
they were oveitali
wind, which, aftei
without iiitermissi
driven to the soiitl
dangerous shoals v
On the 2-^th. al
about G')^. On th
these 24 hours, bei
perature of the sea
was 35^ 44', only
men aboard, iis we
preceding days, an
concluded that so
whether this was t
* History of .laina
heat recorded in tliat
which appear to me
t Monsier findiii's
ed from the 24ili of,
as is iiulinatcd by 2.1
According to M. dc
degree of Rcaumer's
heat in .lamaica, du
elude that the mean
t The lowest cnlni
cause of the con.sian
which water, not ha
remained some time
Dalrymple, Esq. reli
(See i'hil. Trans, vo
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
057
' the Ampn',Mn
t^oninj:, sli,j,j|,j
"I'riL^.H arc l,m
nces, and tlur?
y steep ; for „
life bccnfoiiii
s; from tin,.
ilosojiliicalSi,.
ised frrrineiiit
thatoftli..;,;
est heat oi' :,'f
9 tlieriiionie>t
iule21° l(i;v
J adoiwardj,;!!
opic of Cnnc-:
•i on appidxl,.
he licat ol' n.^
' 71° ; wen Pre
niiig very fi,.,
3'; hut liidv,;,
A'as tliisil;i\ ,.
, •^GthofA'inl.
sea- water. ;ini
'ver obcrvfiir
aiiv acciilfi;';]
If Strc;ini. ii-
he torriil zo;,e,
n of tllp|ip;il;
leter, at i),reo
by niiip. (Jjc
; iill iliMiine
cstern tnwrse.
and to a->iiine
Accnnlin:lv,
It the ile|i;liiii
course nt" i1:p
r the land, ik
air at till' tiiiir.
ohservaiiim if
ted tliolaliiiiili'
atitude I'rnin
tcr than cdiiH
le seamen tl;at
[1 1 believe ilie
1 tiie latilii'i!'.
any reckoniii:
> 4 in tlir al'tit-
we hove to;:
noon tlie nc\:
Stream, aim-;
of 'frei-nwii!:.
e sea tlndnji
in the evcnm
current when
the ship's run
f across; tli.it
as il blew a fresh breeze, could not be less tlian 'J') lca;:;iies in lo hours, the distance of
Nine between the two observations of the lieat, and iience tin- breailth of the Stream
iiiav be estiniuted at 'JO leagues. The breadth of the (iiiif of l-'lorida, which evidently
l)(Hiii<ls till,' stream of its onj^iii, ajipears by the charts to be •,' or ;J miles less than this,
excluiliii.i,' tlie rocks and sand banks whiili surround ihc ISaliaiiia Islands, and the slial-
luw water that extends to a consideiable distance t'roiii iIk; coast of Florida; and the
correspoii'lence of tlieso measures is very remarkable, since the stream, from well known
piiDciplcs (if hydraulics, must gradually become wider as it gets to a {greater distance
iVuni the cliami ■! by wlTodi it issues.
'• If the heal of I lie ' .'nif (il' .Mexico were knowti, many curious calculations might be
lorineil by cDiiipariii^ it ^viili that of the current. The mean heat of Spanish town and
Jviii,:;stoii, in Jamaica, seems not to exceed Hi";* that of St. Domingo, on the sea coast,
j/iay lie. eslim.ited at the same, from .Aloiis. (lodiu's obser\atii)ns;-f but as tlie coast of
tiie coiilinenl, wliieli bounds the ( iull lo the westw aid and southward, is jirobably warmer,
perhaps a drgree or two luay lie allowed lor the mean temperature of the climate over
the w hole bay ; lei it be slated at HJ or f'-i decrees. Mow there seems to be great proba-
bility in the supposition that the sea, at a certain comparatively small distance below its
surface, agre<'s iti lieit pretty nearly with the average temperature of the air, during the
whole year, in that pari ; and lieuce it may be conjeetiiri d that tli'' greatest heat of the
wat(;r, as il issues out of the i)ay to lorm liie stream, is tdiout .-'J degreo.t the small va-
riation of leiMpi'ratiire uii llie surface not being suijitieiil lo ali'eet mateiially that of the
general ni.iss, \i tlie tropic of ( aneer, 1 found tlic if ii to be 77^; liic stream, there-
lore, in its whole course Irnm tlii' >inll' of Klorida, ma> lie supposed m have been con-
stantly running tliroimli uatir from 1 i i (j degrees colder than itstlf, and yet it had lost
only 4 of he, It, tlioiiuli the surrounding water, where 1 (djst'rved it, was 10' below the
supposed original temjier.iture ot ihe water \vhich I'orms the eiiirent. From this small
diminution of the lie.il, in a disiainc el' pruijably ;j(IO iniles. some idea may be acquired
of the vast lioily of lliiid vijiieii sets oil! from (lie (iidf ot' Mexico, and of the great ve-
locity of its motion. iNiimerous observalions of the temperature of this stream, in
every j)art ot it, and at dilfereiit seasons of the year, coiiijiared with the heat of the
water in the surrounding seas, both wiiliiu and without ilie troiiic, would, I ap|)reliend,
be the best means of ascertaining its miiiire, and determining every nuiterial circum-
.stance of its niovemimt. especially if tin- eii'ect of the current, in piisliing ships to tlie
northward, is carefully attended to, at the s;inie time with the i/bscrvatioiis upon its heat."
On the 'i'jtii .'^epicmher, 1777, as the shijis which had Iraiisporled Sir William Howe's
army up (Jhesapcike l>ay were returning towards the Didawarc wUh the sick and stores,
they were overtaken, between Cape Charles and Cap(' IJenlopen, by a violent gale of
wind, which, alti-r some variation, fixed uhiinatidy at .N. .\. K. anil continued 5 days
without intermission. It blew so hard that they were constantly losing ground, and
driven to the southward. We also pui|)osely made some ca-ting, to kec|) clear of the
dangerous shoals w hie h lie oil' ('ape li;,tteras.
On the -JSth, at noon, our latitude was :U> Ui' \.. an.l the lieat of the sea, all day,
about 6.'}^ On the v!')ih our latitude was :j(j S. V\'e had, therefore, in the course of
these '^M hoiu-s, been driven by the wind :5,-< miiilical mih.'s to the southward. The tem-
perature of the sea continued nearly al (.."j '. Next day, the .'llUh, our latitude, at noon,
was ;3o^ 44', only is miles t'arilier to tli.' soutliwar.j, fliouuli in the oniniou of the sea-
men aboard, as well as my own, it had blown al hast as hard i ii tlii.s as on any of the
preceding days, and we had not been able to carry mo'c sail; canse(|iienlly it may be
concluded that some current had set the sliip -JO miles to the northward." To know
whether this was the Gulf Stream, let us consuk the thermDiiieler. At half i)ast nine
* History of Jninaica, London, 1774, vol. iii. paire (i.")a, 003. 'J'lie diircrcnt observations of the
heat recorded in that work, do not ayrec toi^'eili. r, but iliosc adopted here are taken from that series
which appear to me most correct.
t Monsier (Jodin's e.vperimeiits upon the pendulum were made at the petit irrovc. They continu.
cd from the 24th of August to the lili .September, and the avciaiio heat dminjj that time was such
as is iiulioatcd by 25^ of 1\1. ile Reaumor's iheiinomcter, (sec Mem. Acad, Science, 173.}, \). 5. 7.)
Accordiiifr to M. de Luc's calculation, (see Modilications de I'Atmospherc, vol. i. j). 37^.) the 2ath
degree of Rcaumer's /»•«« therniomeler answers to about the ^.'uli of Fahrenheit's ; but the average
heat in .famaica, durimj; the months of Aulmisi and September, is also Hi'P ; licncc we may con.
elude that the mean heat fur ihc wli.de year is nearly the same on the sea coasts of both i.sla'nds.
t The lowest calculation of the nn an Uiiipi ralmc of the Culf is preferred on this occasion, be.
cause of the constant inllu.x of new waicr tiom the Ailaniie ocean, produced by the trade winds,
which water, not having been near aiiv land, must, I think, be sensiblv colder llian that which has
remained some dme enclosed in the bay. On this subject, the observations made bv Alexander
Dalrymple, Ksq. relative to the heat of the sea, near the coast of Guinea, ought to be consulted.—
(See I'hil. Trans, vol. Ixviii. p. 31>4, &c.)
^\
G58
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
In the foronoon of this dny, tho heat of the water was iG'^, no less than 11° ahnrci|,p
teini)erature oftlicsca, bcroic wc ciiinc into the ciiriPiit.
Towards evening the wiml It 11, uiid wo stood N. \V. by N. close hauled. Astiic
«fa
still ran very hiiili, and the .slii|) scarcely went above two knots an lionr, uedid ikhii^,
less than three points of leeway on this tack. The conrsc we made ;';(io(l, lh('i(|(i|i.,,(.,
W. N. W.. which on the distance run by noon nest day, <i,\\v. us alxuit Jd hhIk,,
nortliin,:^ ; but that day. llie Isi ol Octolier, onr latitude «as ;;()■' -J-J', ;;.- miles liirilur'.
the north tinin we had been the <lay In lore ; the d.licicncc, "J'J miles, must be ;iiiiii
to the (lulf Stream. This, however, is only part of the eliect which the current wi,
have produced upon tlii' ship, if we had contiuued m it the wlude "Jt lumrs ; lor tliin
>[IH
we were still in tlie stream at live in the ailerMciiti <;!' the Ddtli,
of tlic water, beini; then abovi
appeared hy tin
and at einlit in ibe cvcniiij; the lieat beirin stjl
yet by seven the next morniui; we bad certainly j:ot clear of it, the heat oC the .sen lif^
then reduced to its former standard of ().')'. On tliis occasion, tiierefore, we did notfr,,
the stream, but, haviii<:; lallen in with it ol)!i(|uely on the western side, we |Hi.s1ik| ,.
agii
iain on tlu' sanu' skIc, ;is soon as im
th
ited.
These observations liaviicr been made .'! to tlu; northward of my former ours,
to observe that the heat of tiie (lull .Stream
h
Th
curmus to ooserve tnat tne lu-at oi nieiiun .-Mream was :jMess. i lie seasons (jii;.,,
year, indeed, were very diflerent ; but, perhaps under such eircunistanees, fliat iIm
effects were nearly balanced. In the latter observations, the meridian altitude u!i!>
sun was less, but then a hot summer pieeeded them ; whereas in the I'ormer, tli(in!;|;;|i>
sun's power was become very ureat, yet tin- u inter had been passed but a sliiiiii|,f
Calculatini; upon this proporlion, we may be led to suspect, that about tlie "J/tli ilc,;*?
of latitude, which is as soon as the stream has got clear of the (in If of Florida, itlifru,
sensibly to lose its heat from f-^J , the supposed temperature of the (iulf of Mexioiis,;
continues to lose it at the rale of about •,' ' of fahreidieit's scale to every o" of l:i!j||;jf
with some variation, ])robably, as the surrounding sea and the air are warmer or tolilfi
at ditl'erent seasons of the year.
The preceding facts had made nie very desirous of observing the lieat of tlieGi
Stream on my passaiic lionieward, but a violent gale of wind, wliich came on two (b,
after we had sailed from Sandy ilook, disabled every person on board, who knewiKmjr,
harnlle a thermmueter, from keeping the deck. The master of the slii|), however, rum.
telligent man. to whom i had communicated my views, assured me, that on llie.MconiJ
(lay of the gale, the ivater felt to him remarkably warm : we were then near tlii' ;/)/jj||c.
gree of west lonyitude. This a;:rees very will with the common remark o|'-i;„;p|,
who allege that tliey are l're(|ueui!y .sensible of the (iulf .'"•tream oil ISantucku >hij;i|s
a distance oliiKireihan llMio iriiles I'lom (he (iulC of Florida I According to ilinslt^.
latif)n 1 have beliire adopted, of a bjss of "J ' of heal for every o^' of latitude, the iiiii|itra.
lure of the (J nil' Stream here would be nearly To, the diO'erence of whidi from.Vi ,tl;f
heat that i observeil in the sea water, bolli before and after the gale, mi^bt cimIv Le
perceived by the master of the ves^el. 'j'hls was in the winter sci'.son, at tiic ei.il of
Decemlier.
An opinion jirevails anujng seamen, that there is something iieculiar in llie HoailiPt
about the (Jiill' Stream. As far as 1 could judge, the heat of tlu^ air w;is coDsidcriililt
increased by it, as might be expected, but win ilierlo a de^^rce or exIiMit siHIk imt I'Jr
producing any material t luuiges in the atniosplii re, must be detcrniined by liiliire ob-
servations.
Perhaps other currents may b(! found, which, issuing from ])laces warmer nr rnlilci
than the surrdundiug sea, (idler from it in their temperature so much as to he disio
vered by the thermometer. Should there be many such, this ii;siriiment will coiiii;'
be ranked amoni;st the nitist valuable ai .-ea, as the difficully of ;isccrlaiiiiiig ciiuii,:'
is well known to be one of the greatest defects in tlie jiresent art of navigation.
In the mean time, 1 hope the observations which have been here; lelatcd are siiffirifr
to prove that in crossinij the (Julf Stream, very esseiilial advantages may bedcrivdiiw
the use of the iheriiiomeier ; f(;r if a ii:asler of a slii]), iiomid to any ol' tiic soiitjii;
provinces of North Ameri<a, will be caiel'ul to try the heat of the sea l're(|iicntlv,:(
must discover very accurately liis entrance into the <!ulf Stream by the sudden inciPi.-t
of the heat, and a contimiance of the ; ame experiuicnts will show him. with eciuiilft-
actness, liow long he remains in it. Ilence he will always be ai)|«! to ni;ike a |ir(i|i('n!-
lowance for the number of miles a ship is set to the northward, by multiplying tlit'tiiiie
into the velocity of the current. Tliou;j,li this velocity i;. hitherto very iinperfectly kmi«c
from want of some method of determining how long the current acted upon tliesliip.
yet all uncertainty arising from tlience must soon cease, as a few ex[)erinients nponilie
heat of tlie stream, comjiared with theship's run, checked by observations of iliehiii-
tuile, will ascertain its motion with sutficient precision. From dilferences in lliewinil.
and perhaps other circumstances, it is probable that there nuiy be some variations in the
nii; and meridian o
quainted witli tlu
water, have been k
westward, and wliei
of Cape Florida, f
reef.
Il', witli adverse
of the (Julf of .Me\
deavor to make th
der the lee side ; b
fevn extent of tiu> s
|strait, nor along th
[of Cape Florida or
lis the least c 1 of
Iseis may also be br
[of. IJut if at any t
Itlien the Atlantic c
(take the stream : b
[tate the progress, ^
[marks:
" We took our
[leagues; then S. S
IC leaijues, with the
[act of recfmir top-s
on Carysfort Reef.
1 made her course A
" I left," says ar
I steered S. W. by .*■
of the Uouble-lien
from, S. W. by W,
"Augusts'), 181
ran 28 miles W. S
found, by meridian
" Aug. 30.— Wii
miles west to midn
A. M. the ship Th
tant one mile, mad
[ ship and stood olV t
ed with 4^ fathoms
I boat and run out e;
Three Sisters then
by E. direction, an
tion, where we fo
This must have be
! channels to be fou
the same directioi
board, the wind ve
passage, found the
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
659
viner ones.ti,
3 SLMsons oiiie
"«'P>^, that ikr
altitude {,<<•,
im-r, thoiii;!,;,;,
lit a slioiii:i:f
thf 'J7lll ll,.;;,,,'
lorida, itliKfi
of MfxiduK
! 3" of laiiiiijf.
leat of the im
IM.' Oil t\l(i i]ac
llO klR'wllOB-K,
liowfvcr,,iiiin.
t on lliesccnmi
I'iirllicMijjiJe.
larU ol'>(,;niei),
tii('k.tM;oals,
IS '" il^i'iaku-
I'. tlMM('ll;|ieta-
1 Irolll j'l-,|];f
iii,!;lit v;m\\[i(
at till' eul of
ill till' wrailiPf
IS c(iiisiili'r;i!!|i
It siiliiciriit iJr
\>y ruiiMcob-
iniirr nr cnldtr
;is t(i be (lisfu
It will conic If
liiiliii; ciinfi,;'
alidii.
ai'c siilticiir
lie derived licE
r tlie soulk':
rrei|iiriitlv.'!
iddeii iiiciT>!
with e(|U;\l«-
^e a |)ni|;cn!-
lyiiiti; tlu'tiiiie
•iCcctlv kiiiiw
upon the ship.
I en Is ii|i(inilie
MIS of ilie laii-
es ill tlie winil.
Illations in the
rclorltv of tlie cuiroiit ; anil it will In* curious to observe whither tlicse variations may
not liemiciitly lie iioiiitcd out liy a diH\'nMicp in its teiiiiit«iatiire, as the quicker the cur-
leiit iiiovi's the less heat is liUi'ly I'l I"' lost, and ci)iisc(|ii('iilly the lioftcT will the water
lie ill tills oliserv.iliiiii, liowevcr, llie season ol' the year iniist alwuys Ik; considi'red,
iiiirtlv lieeause it may iicrhaps in some (le;;rce allVci the oii'^'iiial tciii|ieraluie of the
water in the (Julf of '.Mexico, but principally because the a(.i;ia! heat of the stream must
be areaicr or less, in pni|Hirtioii as the tract of iho soa throiii;li which it has down, was
wanner or colder. In winter I shall suppose that the heat of the stream itself would bo
rather less than in summer, but that the dili'crcnce lietwcen it airl the surnuindint,' sea
would lie much greater ; and 1 ciuiceive thai in the middle of summer, lliouuh the stream
had lost verv little of its original heal, yet the sea mi'.'ht, in some jiarts, ac(|uire nearly
tile same teinperatiire, so as to render it scarcely possible to distiii'i^uish by the therino-
mefer when a 'diip entered iiilo llie corrrnt.
Vessels may with safety avoid tlie eddy of tlie ;:ulf. or make allowance for it in their
calculations; 'that is, if tliev caiiiiot lielp'tailiiiir into them, after they have taken all the
precanlioiis by souiidin.'s in blue v-ati-r, and when th< y had bottom, stood olf, they will
naturally siilitract what loii-iiiide they make in the eildy, from what they had made in
the stream, and lu-'ii. a new dop.irtnre, beiiiL' at tlie same time very precise in their morn-
injj and meridian obsi-rviilions. Many ships bound l!iroii;;li the ."^trait of Florida, uiiac-
qmiiiited with the stream'^ eddy, and" i'j;iioraiit also of the soundini[s beiii;,' under blue
water, have been lost in fair weather. Tliey were swept insensibly by the eddy to the
w(!stw'aid. and when th-v found liy tlieir calculations that they had a sufficient offms; east
of Cape Florida, they stood iioriii. and instead of eiiterin;; tlie strait ran directly upon a
reef.
If, with adverse noithcrly, easterly, nr N. H. winds, vessids Imppen to be m the mouth
of the (Julf of .Mexico, tha't is. betvveen the Havana and Cape Florida, they had best en-
deavor to make tlr! na!ia!!ia Fslands, or at least the soundings of them, and proceed un-
der the lee side ; but when they are to the north of them, it is best to keep in the east-
ern extent of tlie stre im, or else ihey will not lie abl< to clear their way through the
strait, nor alon^ the coast of East Florida, and may m'et on shore upon the reefs either
of Cape Florida nr Cape Canaveral, if not upon the beach between the two capes, which
is the least ; I of the two : for thus the crew and cara;o may be saved ; and some ves-
sels iiiav also be brou;^ht olf, provided the storm ceases before the vessel is made a wreck
of. Uiit if at any time of the south sun, or at any other time, the winds are westwardly,
then the Atlantic coast affords the most eliirible lee for naviiratms who do not choose to
take the stream; but if the current in the yiilf is well uinleistood, it will ".'really facili-
tate tlie i)ro"ress, when bound to the northwaril, as fully illustrated in the following re-
marks :
" We took our departure from tli" westward of Cat Key, and strercd S. S. W. 24
Icasjues; then S. S. \V. i S. o't leaiuos, when we altered our course to S. S. \V. i W.
C leaijues. with the wiiid's(|iially at N. W., coin^ at the rale of .-< knots. While in the
act of recfmir to|)-sails, juili^in^ ourselves near the I^ouble-headed Sliot Keys, we struck
ion C^arysfort Keel'."' [The course steered by compass was S. S. W., whereas the drift
;made her course W. S. W'.]
"I left," says an experienced navigator, "the Hahaina Hi. k in lat. ','4° .3.T N., and
'steered S. W. by S., by compass, and in the inorninc; discovered myself within fi miles
of the Double-headed Shot Keys, which bear from the latitude 1 took my departure
from, S. W. by W."
" Atigust 2'), \fi\C). — At midnight left the bank with the wind south and south-westerly 5
ran 28 miles W. S. W. ; -Ji iiiiJes W. by S., close hauled upon our larboard tack, and
found, by meridian altitude of the sun, our latitude to be -2-1^ oU' N."
"Aug. 30. — AVinds westerly and lifjht, still on the wind on our larboard tack ; run 25
, miles west to midnight, sounded, no ground ; continued W. and W. by N. 4 miles, to 3
I A. M. the ship Three Sisters, captain Armington, being then on our weather bow, dis-
tant one mile, made a signal she was ashore ; hove the lead and had but . "5 fathoms, tacked
'ship and stood ofVten minutes, sounded, quarter les^'iJ, tacked again and stood in, sound-
ed with 4^ fathoms, when we let go our anchor and brought up at 4 A. M. Manned the
I boat and runout east three quarters of a mile, when the bo it struck on a reef, the ship
Three Sisters then bearing W. S. W. one mile. Went off in the boat again in a N.E.
by E. direction, and found a narrow channel of 12 feet ; tried again in a S. S. E. direc-
tion, where we found a jiassage of 15 feet, one mile wide, current setting N. N. E.
This must have been the channel which we fortunately got in at, there being but two
channels to be found ; the wide channel was the only one which would admit us both in
the same direction we then were. Cut under way the captain of the ship being on
\ board, the wind veering from S. S. W. to N. W. and stood out, but on approaching the
passage, found the current to set strong on the S. end of the N. reef, which set us jnto
OGO
BLUNIH AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
11 fent water, in about tin- li'n<;fh nl' the vessel, wlicn it deRprncd to 3, 4, (>, 7, Ifi, >)
fathninM, ami oil' soiiiKiiii^s, tin- It-ad hcint; liovi; as (jiiick as posiiblc
" The piact' we yot in ;it, appears to hv, Uy the chart, JWiller's inlet and oiillrt, Ivi,,,
between Histaynn "s itnd Li (llnirii's reel', in latitinle -J,") ' -J-J' N."
" During my seveial ernises within the iMarl>rs or l-Moiida Kt'cl," says Air. K(mii;iii,
" I have seen a j^reat nnnilier tif' vessi Is horrtiw so elose nn the reel", that they apptMrhJ
to be within it; anil sonieliines I eoiilfl even see the people wiili the help of ;i {.in,,
tho people, I suppose, were well aetpiainted or very bold; .)nt let tin* inati who dur,
thi.. ' ever no expeiieneed, he ninsl be very carernl to l^eep a strict look-out; Corn,
part .(Hild not eonie nearer than just to raise tlie land, especially as tides may hai,
ihei. I ..inencu lartln'r oil' than we are aware of.
" Besides this reason lor siaiidiiii; lontn-r oil' than in, there is one still greater. Kvin
experienced mariner Uimws that a vessel will run towards shore in less time than she, ||
run the same distance I'lom it; and tiiat the higher the huid she works under, the (|nii!,f
she nuis in, cr)nse(|nentl\ the slower she runs oil'. Ilenee idinosi <'very one in licur ,
,upon a le<^ sln)re \\\\\ stand out a longer lime tli.in in; Iml lew, even amony; the m,.^
cx|)erienced, know the philosophy of this phi'iiomenoii auainst which they mij^i
so carefnlly. It is that ureal law of natnrc. whereby :dl lii;ht bodies must lidl (in i<,
heavier ones — I mean attraction. To explain thi i by an experinit nt ; take any v('«,|
fill it almost will) water, put a cork nr chip in it; while tlnif remains in the centre,!;;,
attracted from every side aliki', and tlierel'iire stands (ixed ; but no sooner is it tjinun
out of the centre liian it will be^in to approach the side ; and, as it draws near, atirn.
tion is iiu'reased, till at last the velocity of the chip beeoim-s ^'o sjreat as to run witlioi.
siderable violeni'e a^^ainst the vessel, where it remains fixed; and, if it is an obloiii;|iifrp
in shape ot a vessel, the same will happen as when a ship runs ashore stern-oii, n/,]'
will wind broadsides to. The explanation of this piienomenon we owt; to .lidin ('iillim,
Esq. of Newport, in Rhode-Island, formerly lirst counsellor of the slate, andaviivn.
perieneed commander."
Speakiny of the (lULI'' STUKAM, Mr. Romans, » whose surveys cd' the Cum,,,
Florida relleeird i^reat credit on him, says: "^'lie All-^raeioiis Kuler of the I'lmcf.!.
has so disposed the several shores ol' this nia/,y iMliyrinth, as to cause this cnrri'iit luriiii
in a direction N. K. and at the rate of .'i, and .'.! miles in an hour; by which iiieiuK «
are enabled better to avoid the imminent danijers of the reef, where it becomes ;i 1^.
shore; for the viidenee of the easterly ii;ales lieals thr- ( Jiilf-water over the reels m, ,i,s
to destroy the ell'eet of llood-iide-;, by c ansini: a constant reverberatiiii,' cnrreiil Iniiiitlie
shore over the reef, insomuch that a vessel ridin;; under the reef will lay witli l;n>ltra
to windward.
"I once eanie out from Malaciimlie. and was scarcely dear of the reef, beli.ie 1 wan
overtaken by a gale from the eastward, wliieh was very violent. It was '> o'clnck in the
eveniuE;, and it bein<4 dark, to aitempi a re-eiitraii(;e of the rei'f, I was forced tn Jieave
the vessel to, which I did under th" balanced niaiii>ail : she was ,i heavy sc.ijoiiiier of
about 70 tons, and a dull sailer. The sin ((M'din^ nii;hi I passed in the deepest (iisircss
of mind, seeing the biimiiiix of llin breakers in eonstaiu snceession on the vct'l'. till past
one o'clock; tlie storm continued till ten next inmnint;, when I made sail to the iiorlli-
ward, and at m)on, to my utter asfunislnneni, I had an observalion of the sun's altitiiile,
which proved nie to be in'-'O ' 30' latitude, by which I liad made a dilference of latitiiile
of 118 miles, in the short space of 1L> hours, 17 id" wliieh I lay to.
♦' I am an utter enemy (continiK's Mr. IvoinaiH.) to all tin oreiie and svsfrniatii posi-
tions, which has caused in me an wndefaiiirable thirst for finding, in my exiiunfiiff,
* Mr. Romans observes, "If by koeiiin^' to tlie iiiMtlr.vai'd, tlie current of tlie Mexiraii riiilflia!
set you on soundings on Tortui;ns Slmal, ;lu"^e soniuliiiirs, in fiirav wenllirr, may lie n t'liiile, k
ing properly laid down in the eluirf. Vmi do not eliiimje llic color of your water till vdii p'
well in with the shoal, Inif there is irenrniilv an eddy current so soon ns yon are on sniiiuliiisi;
therefore, if you stand over to tlie florida shorn, so soon as you are up to the latitmle n{ '2Tii.
keep as much to the eastward as N. N. E. or N. E. by N. till you i;ef sniindintra. And, whaieKt
terrible idea people may have of that shore, if tin wind will allow you. keep it on hoard, especial?
in tho autumn and winter seasons, when the IS. and N. VV. winds are freeiianif, and tho nirrfal
often runs to leeward. In those seasons, you may take an advantage of the tides on soumiinfl,
by carefully observing their times; and this conduct will tend to shorten your |)assai,'r. Wkra,
however, you are got as far windward as the soutii end of jVIataounibe Reef, endeavor to {retal
the easting you can possibly aeipiire, in order to iret the Baliaiiia shore on board, which is iliem«i
eligible in going northward. The proximity of tlie Reef of Florida will manifest itself clcarlyiii
day-light by the white color of the water, and thus there may be no danirer in approachinjf it; I'u'
this is far from being the case at night, when it ought to be carefully avoided, and the lead kept ton-
Btantly going; because, having soimdings to the distance of two miles without the steep part of «,
they^will show t^e proximity of danger."
blunt's amkhu'an coast imlot.
CGI
Piiiifpsfor iill rxfriionlinary appcarancos, lie lli< y what tJn-y may. And my fxprririiPntal
|i()>;iti(tin)r llif! laiisn of the iiicrcaso of ih«i vflnciiy (il ihis ciirn-nt, (liiiini: ilu- ^ah's,
lli;it liliiw conlnry m its <hi«'(tiiiii, is no oiler than tlic n viiliirilinj; ruir<iit ocrasioiuMi
l)V llif »^*»'"'"n "' •'"' water within ihe reef, which in the iiii'Mioralih' i;ale ol ( )(tol)er,
t){,'), when tlie l.pillmry was hint, was no h-ssthan :!(» fei'l ahove it> ordinary h-vel."
Hcsiilfs the coiivfuiciM r ot rorrpctin;,' a ship's tomse, hy knowiiii^ how to m.iUe a pro-
per alliiwaiicc lor thi- dislancf she is set to the iiorth«;od hy llie rnrrent, a method of
deli'iiniiiin;i wilti et riainty when she enters into tlie (JuH' Stream, is attended with llie
farther inestimable advai\ta^(! of showinj; her phae upon the oeean in iht- nmsi { ritical
sitiiatifin ; for, as tlie eiurent s(^ts alon>{ the coast of America, at places on soundin^a,
the mariner when he finds tills sudden increase of heat in the sea, will he warned of his
approach to the coavt. and will thus have tiimdy notice to take tiie necessary precau-
tious lor the safety ol' his vessel. As the course of the ( in If Stream comes to he more
!i(ciirat(dv Unowii, from repeatiil observations of the heat and latitiuh-s, this iiK-thod of
deterininin;,' theshijj's place will he proporlionahly more applicable to use. And it de-
rives additional importance from the |ieculiar ein-unistances of the American (M)ast,
which from the month of the Delaware to the soiitlienimost point of I'^loriila, is every
where low, and beset with lVe(|neiit shoals, rnnnim: out so far into the sea, that a vessel
may be aiiroiiiid in many [daces where the shore is not to be disiinj;uislieil, even from
the mast-head. The (riilf .Stream, therefore, which has hitherto served only to increase
tin- perple\ities of seamen, will iiow, if these observations are found to be just in |)rac-
lice, become one of the chief means of their preservation up(ui this dangerous coast.
I
CG3
UMJIVT H AMEUICAiy COAST PILOT.
Extritet nf n Letter f mm Franrin D Vii.'on, E»q., to Col, John IVillianu, Commnndanl nf i\f
Cor pa oj Euffiiifrrit, ami Aii'hor of " Thrnnomelrical Nnrigotion," at New \'nrk ; ilalni
ri,uri>.y, (Mill,'.) 3<(ili Juiif, l~lii,
" My viiynu'"' Jrciiii \tw York to fliilil'iix, in tin- Hriiisli piirkct Klizii, wum ho very IriniPfsiu,,,;,
mid iiiir<iriiiiiiiU', (liiiviiii; ciirrird asvuy our roriiimMi,) tliiil 1 did not ninki- nny tliertnonn'irii nl >,ii,
NcrviitionN ; bnt wlicn wc xailcd from iliilil'iix, on ilu'iJTili April, I licttnii tlicin, and contiiiiiril in.
til I iinr>irtnn!iii'ly liroke boili iny llicriiionicici'S. ilowi'vcr Mliort llic time wiim, you will |iHrciii>
tlint my oli>'t'iviiiion'< Iimvc liccn viry impoitiiiii, mid I licrcwith kiiiiI the result of tlicm. Ymi »,'
pcrci'ivo Willi wini lidcliiy tin' lliiTiiiDmclrr indiiiiicd ilic Imiiks, and the approxiimilioii tuwan'i
IslandH of ice, The ciipiaiii was wo ronviiH'rd o|' ihi' ii.scfiilncxs (d'llic iln'rmonirtcr, thai lie iiiaii>
rcu'nliir ri'iiiarliH, and in-< ricd ilirni in his loiiiiial. F <;nvi' liini onr of your hookn, thinkiiii: ii w.iulj
he pIcaHiiitr to yon iliai I HJiiiiild cMcnd ilif know Iciltrc of a discovt-ry ko iinclnl ns yours, nnii I
wixli it wurc more ucncrully known. Afirr Imvini; mirnriilinMly cHrniicd the iHJands of ico, and
Bcvcrul Bcveri" t'^'^'^i ^*''' urrivcd ai I'lilmoiitli on the vJiJd <d May, IHIO."
ilR
Exlntrt f
om
the
Elita'ii Journal,
iiui;r!i.
KT OF 1
LAT. i I.ONi>.
DATES.
1
1
RMMAUK^.
A.M.
Ill
p. M. Air.
\Vnt««r.
N. 1 W.
Ap. 'ir'
Il>
KN
1
1 17
41
J303I)' iG2o
■)2'
4 43
8 , 4li
42 1
40
1 ..
Snbic Bank.
..••••••*i..i*
21)
H
i 4."!
43
1
Noon.
49
48
12 27 (III
.54
r,
.'iO
G2
7
48
G4
311
f)
10
48
Gil
G2
Gl
Tnpkinff fownrd? fd^'o of Stream.
Steering in the Stream.
Noon.
la'i"
.5!)"
21
.')
.'•.8
Gl
!)
(iO
iiO
May 1
8
(>((
:^H
1'
i i;o
2 i (!4
40
Sound in 7(1 falhoms, no ImtMni : tlir inii:
at that depth U ' warmer than on the siirl.uc.
ii" .53"
5(>
.52'
3 «;3
4 i M
.') ' (!0
4G
47
47
4.5
An island ot' iee, liearinR S. i^, V.. ' mifi,
Ahri'ast of iee \ mile to leeward.
Island of ice hears S. S. W. 7 miles.
(i
.■iT
8
Mi
48
2
1
:j
8
10
f
.')8
GO
GO
G3
.IO
GO
G2
G3
Noon.
G4
G3
41 25 .53
8
3
Gl
G4
i
(i
9
G2
.')8
.-iG
1....
Sound with 70 fathoms, no bottom.
4
(i
12
.'50
43
40
.'iG
43
3!t
Sound with H(l fathoms, no bottom.
Sound with 8(1 fathoms, no bottom.
All enormous island of ice abreast, 100 yds.
This was about 1.50 feet high, and 1 mile in di.
'...1
amcter. When first discovered, it wa.snotlOO
yards from the vessel, and we were snilinir di.
rectly towards it. The obscurity wns then so
great, that at that distance it appeared only like
a white cloud, extending from the sea over our
masta.
8
10
41
43
■^
Passed several islands of ice, the iargcsi
bearing S. W. 7 miles.
Noon.
44
43
12 1
50
4
No bottom by 80 fathoms.
4
44
.-iO
G
4G
GO
Midn. 12
41)
GO
4
4
8
4(i
43
.'■)2
GO
(
Noon.
M
.59
42 54
4G
2
8
49
GO
12
48
GO
5
G
47
.59
Noon.
.in
59
43 12
41_
43
Hroko the Thermometers.
The Important po
or near ilie ctream,
ditl'ereiH-e between
n eoiirurrcat ubtiei
jiiiiK'uent.
Kruiii April 28, a
nboali) of Sable, Iro
Cy«|0. AtlOl'. >
the coa»t at 54 ^ w
iMoraing, 30th, we «
l( these Ntripes of
In) inure diHtinelly d
About 23 hourn a
the mercury falls 14
an inland of iee, iil>
atmosphere, and oi
ter rose to 51'', 1)111
tanee of 7 miles. I
ocean, ought to iml
11 A. .M., to the ne.\
comes again into oc
stream attain, and t
during 17 hours, till
no hotioiii in 80 faili
Now, from past ex|
heeuiise at that dist
ice abreast, 100 yarc
the thermometer bei
the fate of the ship '
sive answer; ami h
alone cause such ac
Temperature oj' the
March 7 Ai
8
9
10
11
13
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
91
93
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
t West of the
April
* Captain Law's f
•tatef, " April 6, in 1
t
BLUNT H AMKUICAN COAHT IMLOT.
GG3
Ixfmarku on tha fnrff^oini; Jiiiirmit,
Tlieiiiip'^f"'"' l'"i"' "fconipBrimm Ih the ililliTt'iicc iti ilic litiit oCihc wntrr in (lilU'rciitplnrcfi, in
(ir iiriir liic Filrcniii, in iIh' oci'ii'i, oui ol' ilir Mirciiiii, mi ilic riiii.>l, iiriil iiiiir ihIiiikIm oI ici — ii<it (he
iliircmiicr bctwrtii till' Ih'iii ot'lln' uatrr lunl ilir nir, ii^ Muur liii\f iiiini,'iiuil. 'I'lic liiiti r i^ mirrly
n iinicurrt'Mt obnerviilion : it Mrvcn to tutcjiuu I'ur (niiiiiiuy tluinai'N, and tiiiichy tu ;{in(lo liio
jmlt,'"!*'"'-
Jr'rorn April iJH, nt 10 A. M., td April VJH, nt H A. M., we kit the tcnipt riitiirc of i|it> h( it in tlin
jibimla <it Hablo, Ironi ID tolH. A; .') 1'. Al. wo mi' ilie wiirin inlliicniT ol llie (Julf .Stniini Ironi ti'J'^
to (>l'\ At lOl'. M. we HL'f tlicicniprriiiiirc hflwitn the irillu(nL( of ilie Hirriiin in ilnii wiiicrimil
till' I'lmst lit .11 ', whii'h \n nlMHii ii iiitiin ht'twcrn the two; then Hianiling oil' slime, at 1) iho next
iiioriiiiiK, •I'lth, we Hec ihe wiinii iiilh.i'iice ol the Mniiiii ii:,'aiii.
IC tlie.Hc ntripe« ol' water had lieeii disliii;,'iii(ilied hy the colors ol' w hiie, n (I, and IjIiic, could they
he more dixiinetly dincoveruhlr than they are hy tiio coiiNlani ii.-e ol ihe ihernioiiMler ?
Ahout 'S.\ hour>< afterwards, May 1, at M A. M., we liiul the v\alt;r eooiinjr, and in .'< hoiirn iiiorr
the mercury fulln 11'^ (Hi'.) Here no lioitoni could he found hy tin h ad ; and iheie was |iroliuhly
nn inland of ice, ohfciired hy fo>,'. [Let it he reincnihered, iliii' the coldness of ice coiideuse« iho
atmosphere, and of course the coii-rcpience must he fotr.] I'lis.^i.-iir ihisiil 'i V, !\1,, ilie ihi rinoine.
ter rose to .I I'', but in one hour more it fell to W^ a'fnin ; iind an island of ice a|ipcared at the (lis-
tnnce of 7 niiles. Let naviuniors rilleci on this, and say ihal a sudden fall of Ii" in this part of tlio
ocean, ouj;ht to induce lliein to haul to the s<iuiliwnrd, and keep a _;ood lookout. I'Voni May 1, at
11 A. .M., to the next niornini,' at I A. M., we see the uradual ehnii^'es as the ship passes the iceniid
., comes a^'iiin into ocean watiT (.IW'';) hut in x! hours more the ship is in the wnriii iiUluence of ihu
I stream a;,'aiii, and the meieiiry rises III'- (tiO .) i^lie proceeds in ii nearly re;;iihii' dcffree ol heat
■* duriiif,' 17 hours, till at ti 1'. M. the \.aier h'tjins uLraiii lo cool, fallini.' to ,'iti' at iiiidiiit(lii. Here was
no hottoiii in HI) fuihoms. May !hl, at I A. M., the water was at i.'l , .>i,ll no lintioi.i m Mil fatlioinH.
Now, from past experience, we musi say, here is an island of ice in a liss distance than 7 iiiilefi,
lieeuuse at that distance the water was ■Hi'-'. When day appears, helujld an enonnoiiij island of
ice abreast, 10(1 yards, and the heat of the water reduced to '.M^ ! A question now occurs : Jl-id not
the thermometer been thus used, had it not been continued diniiij,' the iii^'hl, what would have been
the fate of the ship .' Let the recollection of the niiserahle faie of the ship *.lupitcr, he an iinpres.
sue answer; and let it he laid down as a luariliine axiom, that want ol caiiiion, or ifjnorancc, can
alone cause such accidents in future. JON A. WILLIAMS.
'Te.mprralure oj the air and water on ii ixiaxnirr frmn New York In hrlninl, Mtirrh, 181G, ;/j the
ship lirand Turk, Juhn (Jurltoii, t'lmiinnittlvr.
Marcli 7
H
9
10
11
\-2
1.3
11
1.-)
Hi
17
18
19
i>0
ai
22
as
ai
25
2(5
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
April
Air, noon. Water.
Lut. N.
41 I.')
4)) 00
47 00
.Iti .'10
(il 00
.lli 00
41 00
58 00
47 00
52 00
5t! 30
51 00
52 30
47 00
48 00
48 00
48 00
45 00
48 00
48 00
49 00
49 08
t West of the Bank.
08 30
(III 00
(i5 00
(il (10
K")!l ;)o
m:i
hi
(III
00
30
57 00
57 00
5(i 00
54 00
50 00
48 00
50 00
50 00
50 00
50 00
50 00
50 00
.ID 00
50 00
39
39
10
40
8N.
3(1
3(J
12
42 00
42 25
42 25
4.3 44
44 22
45 43
4G 4G
49
5L
11
24
15
15
51
51
.50 50
50 44
51 17
50 30
49 54
50 18
X On the Bank.
Long. W. Wind.
N. in the (lulf.
N. do.
S. and W. do.
N. do.
W.
8. W.
N. E.
IS. and W.
S. and W.
S. and W.
S. and W.
fS. and K.
21 57 W.
18 13 S. and E.
E.
N. and E.
N. W.
s.w.
E.
E.
10 4(; N. E.
10 23 N.E.
§ East of the Bank.
Ill
3(;
59
(13
51
1 1
.5-f
17
49
.-)!
47
01
45 42
39
27
37
15
3,3
It
31
.33
17
15
12
10
10
9
55
41
24
24
13
• Captain Law's protest, eontainin;,' the particuhira of the distressing circumstance of tliis ship,
«tate», " April 6, in lat. 44° 20', long. 49°, at 8 A. M., saw several pieces of broken ice, from which
OGl
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
Off-Selfrum the Gulf Sream.
Vnm\ llic supciior cleviiiiiiii of tlin (iiilf .Stream, its water, about the 15ali;iiii;is, i,,,.
pears to liavt; a dfilivity or ifiiileiicy to tlie eastward ; and tliere is reason to bflit\o
that an oll'-scl of llic Stream, I'roiri willioiit the Maternillo Hank, sets, if not ;^eneiHllv
very lre(]uently, to the casiwanl and .S. E. Witli tlie usual set of the currents, alonyil,,
eastern ran^e of tlie Dahama Islands, we are not ..ccuralely ac((uainte(l ; but, Mitli;i.\
\V. wind, uc hav',' no doul)t that it is in a S. K. dirt'(;tioti, '''lie Knropa, a ship ofwi,
returning; to Jamaica, h\ this passaj;c, from a cruise ol'' Havana, in 17- ~, stcer»'(l cj,'
on the parallel of .io N. with a westerly wind, until the rn.i was supiwsed to have broii;-!!-
her on the meriilian of Turk's Islands, by which it was intended to pass soutiiwani, Im'
an ctislcrlji current had swept her aloiiij as hij;h as that of the Mona Passage. Ciipiii-r,
Maiiderson, of the Koyal Navv, who fust noticed this event, observes, " if it werr i.iii>
ascertained that a current was coumion in that |)art of the ocean, mi;^ht it iiot be f;n r.
able for vessels bouinl from .lamaica to the Catibbee Islands, especially i; the suiiiii,fr
months, durins; the prevaletu'c of the sea bree/.es?"
"The ship Fame, t'aptain.i. W. iMonleath, a jiood lunarian, assures me, " says Can.
tain Livingston, "tliat he had been carried three dej;;'„es and upwards to the eaMu;;;
between the time of his departure from the American coast and makinj; the WiiicUir,
Passages; but this may have been partly oc(;asioiied by the (iiill' Stream, wliicli liium
liave crossed loo olili(|uely in proceedim: from Norlolk." The h'ame above inetiiii,|„;
was bound IVoiti Nmlolk, in \'iri:inia, to Kiii^stoii, .lamaica, in May, IHlb; and iiur,!,
of thirteen days, uiilil in the latitude of 'J'J ', and longitude ()1°, it was found that lliiiir.
rent had set the vessel ;; 1(1' K.
"(laptain llall, in the Mrii-; Lowland Lass, pas.sed to windward of Porto Kico, HJiet
lie tliou<;ht that he had run through the .Mom" I'assaj^e. C'aptain I'attersoii, of tliibn,
Clyde, as 1 am informed, passed down the Aiu-gada Passage, when he intended lu liai-
made the Mona.
(Japt. Ivomaus, before (pioted, says, " within tlie ed]t!P of the Stream is a smooilieiljv,
gradu dly changin;;, as it approaches JIawke (.'haiinel and its Islaiuls, from the Siifnni.
deep blue to a IxMutiful sea j;reen, and at last into a milk-wliite. The soun(liti:;s. iii;i|(r
■ the blue colored water, aie generally on a (ice white marl ; under the sea green, mi ih.
said marl, you meet w ith sponge, white coral, sea-feathers, turtle-grass, and son.dmic.;
banks of rucks; and under the white coioreci water, the soundings are on wliin' im;iiI,
with bank or rocks, or white sand. The eddy takes its current in an opposite (iirecimn
from that nt' the contiguous stream, vi/,. sonth-westwardly."
The soundings ol' the e(|dy. |)rovided no reef be in tin' way between the ."'•ti( in: jinl
tlie Hawke ("haiiuel, run from "Jd fathoms to '2\ ; and when tlie reef ilivi<les tlic Siiciin
and the Hawk- (,'liarmel. the soundings, in sinne places, are from l)ott()ndess ;it (niu' m
12 or 11 fathoms. Ilawke ("hamiel is the channel between Florida Reef and kcvs.
"In a.ldition to the ai)ove notices, 1 have l)een assured, by an intelli;ient Spatii<hirir
gator, that, about thirty years since, vessels bound from Havana to Kurojie, usid ^iinr-
ally to cut oil' three degrees of' longitude I'roiii tlii'ir reckoning, on a( coimt of thi^-ei.
which he said, was considered then as certainly existing. At that tiiiu; the cliiirls wire
about a degrees wrong, which would reduce tlie Spaniard's allowance to tv k (Ipgim,
or thereabout.
at 11 tbe same diiy, we fiijipcised ourselves entirely clear, and steeriiii; \V. by N., W., E. \. K .
foggy wcntber. At 2 P. .M. I)eu;an to diseover islands of ice iif,Min, niul at W oVloek .«.iw ii .
field abead, vvliicli apiie.ncd to have no ojieninji;. AVe llieii wore sliip, and kepi otl to the ?i
■ward and enstward, contiiniaily passing small islands of ice, until five P. M., when we liiiinil
ice ex'rtiding so far to norlli and south dial we could not clear it. We then hove aiioiil and sinii'
to the .lortbwaid among the broken ire, till night came on, and no iirnspeet of ireiiing clear. V
hove to under three luptnils dniibie reeled, in hopes tu liav(^ sullicieiit drift to kiep clear nf iIk :
of ice to Jetnvard, until dayliirhi, but found at ahdui 1 1 we were dritiintr fast upon a large tli Id,
were obliged lowcursbip and liaid U\ the snulliwiird under ea.sy spil, liililiig and hcjuiiig .'i":i
the broken ice as occasion reipiired, until baif |iast V-l, when we struck a small piece, whir
found had gone thmugli the starboard Imw.
" Captain Law wouhl reeouniiend loany vessel bound to Europe, noi lo go to the north ni l:i'
as the information of Capiaiti Gniner in the schooner ihiit relieved him, bad been as far ;
soiuhward as 41^' .10', and coi^Id see no soiitliern terminiition."
By u reference to the journal of Capl. t'arllon, who ranks with the first navigators ol lln' "i.'
and an ornanicnt of the I'. S. Navy, the iiii|H)rtanc(; of the iniirine iherniometer is lully illnsira
On the Kllb the shij) crossed the baid<, at wimh time the temperature of the water wii." li I'
colder than the previous and rullowing diivs. A particular use nl' this instniini 'U, as voii apiT'."
the coast, will unqucstion^ibly point out the soundings, and render useful services to the iiavigau'i
I
"Tlie.'p notice:
tbf^ northward o(
slii)) I'roiii the Ha
fullow my own pi;
the aid of this oli-
in tbR southern p
and I know that i
it Ims been foil
N. \V. IbO leagn
li miles per day, '
the current was t
wliicli continued i
ward anil vvestwar
land. This (;urri
more probably a i
accoriling to the (
It has also beer
sets in liii;li latitin
at the rate of a h;i
An experienced
I maile, dtirin,' liv
rent to the soutluv
it gtmerally prevai
lo that of G'J^. A
longitude, found ;
Ktirope, bound to
of latitude 37", or
westward of the B
against the wind t
Upon siiuixfinsi
New Vork, the e
flnenceil by the w
a slow current of
prev.iil. the curren
tlie pilots of this C(
hapiien, yet they
frei|iieiit. It is pre
near the eni ranee
N. K. In th ■ imi
in the latitude of
gins to color ol a
current from the <
» Captain Thomai
ward li)4 miles, in I
7!)J :>\) W. To the
2j', the current was
Oil the Illih Febri
Maternillo Bank, nii
28' 7' N., and 76^.')
lore, evidently in tli(
la proceeding oil'
the northward of the
nier diaii of 57 J, unti
3J3o' K.
(j.ipt. Haniliii, in t
current weslerlv, froi
gale, from the 28:li ti
which, to (he eastwa
ward. The ship pas
apparently the ' !idf
Rlill lindiiig a strong
Bank of .Sable Islam:
The brig afterwan
f23 W. found a sligl
ridian of 64°, had c
current to the wcstw
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
GG5
15iili;iiii;is, ;n.
ISO II to btlun,.
not ^^uiifnlK,
■eiits, illoilytllr
but, \viili;,_\
:> sliip oIh;i,
7, stceie(l CK
o have bioii;'!)'
^mitliwiinl, liii-
i«ge. ('apt;,,;
il it were (.r,,>
it iiot bi' I'm r.
h the suiiiiNT
le, " siiys (',..,.
I) the eiisiw,;|
the Wiiiilui;,
, whicil Ileum
mvo mfniini,..i,
'•; 'and iiiirvi
1(1 that iIkm.,;.
rto Rifo, «!iei:
son, oCtlii'iiii,
tended ut ki-
a snirxiili eiliiv,
in the Sii(;iiii\
nmhiiLis. iii,,iir
x ji,'recii, 1)11 tliv
nid son.ctmies
jn wliiie iiiiiH,
(osite (lireniun
iifi^pep notices tend to prove that an easterly ofl'-srt. from the finlf Stream, sets to
the iiorilnvard of the IJahainas ; of this I am so firmly convinced, ili;it if, in charfjc of a
shii) from the Havana, or even New-Orleans, bound to Jamaica, I should, if allowed to
t"i)llo.v my own plan, run out the Strait of Florida, and attempt niakin«; my pa.ssaj^e with
the ,iid of this oil-set. This is to he understood in case I should not have westerly winds
III the sonthern parallels; for such winds are, I am told, more frequent than formerly;
and i know that they are l»y t means of rare occurrence on the S. W. of Cuba."*
It has been found that when (Jape Henry, (the south point of the Cliesa|)eake,) bore
N. W. IbO leagues distant, a current was settinti to the southward, at the rate of 10 or
12 miles per day, which so continued until Cape Henry bore W. N. W. H'lor'JO leaf^ues ;
the current was then found settinfi! to the N. E. at the rate of ,'i:$ or ,'54 miles per day,
which continued until within :\2 or .'iO leagues of the land ; then a current set to the uoulh-
ward and westward, at the rate of 10 or 15 miles jvm- day, to within 1-J or 15 miles of tho
land. This current, which is considered as the -ddy of the (iulf Stream, (but which is
more probably a continuation of the Labrador current,) sets, more or less, to the S. W.
accorilinE; to "the fijjure «if the coast.
It has also been observed by others, that a southern and western current constantly
■its ill hi;;h latitudes between the (hilf Stream and coast, more particularly in soundings,
ai the rate of a half mile an hour, or more, according; to ilie wind.
Anexjierienced officer of the navy, before quoted, has said, that " In all the observations
I inadi', diuiii,' live years criiisins; on the A 'lerican coast, 1 never foiiml this eastern cur-
rent to the southward of latitude ;il<^, and only once, (ihe above-mentioned time,) so far;
it uenerally pievailini; between the latitudes of .'J7 ^ and 40^, from the loi.L'iiude of 60°
Id that of O'J^. And I have often, about the latitude of .'50' or 37°, and about the above
b)n!,'ilii(h', found a stroiif; current to the south, and south-west. Therefore Khi|)s from
Kuroj)", bound to America, should endeavor to make the passage either to the southward
of latitude 37", or to the northward of latitude 40^ : that is to say, when as far. or to the
westward of the Banks of Newfoundland, they tjiould, as much as possible, avoid beating
against the wind to the westward, between the latitudes of .37' and 40".
rpnn .si)Uii(/in!>s, along the coasts of (ieorgia Carolina, Virginia, New .Jersey, and
New Vo.'k, the current runs, in general, parallel to the shore; and is, in general, in-
(liiciiced by the wind, which mostly prevails from between the south and west, produciiig-
a slow current of aliout one or a half knot to the N. K.; but when the N. and E. winds
|)rfvail. the current along shore to the souii.-west will fre(|uently run two knots; on which,
the pilots of this coast remark, that the south and S. W. currents tliouiiii they but seldom
happen, yet thev are always stronger than those to the iHirtliwaid, whi(li are more
frcipient. It is proliable the tides may have some inllucnce on these ciirreiiis. particulaily
near the enirance of the great bays and inlets. The (lood on this coast nmies Irom the
N. H. In th' months of April and Alay 1 have observed, on crossin'/ the (Jiilf .Stream,
in the laiilude of (.'a|)e Henry, that, when near the inside of the Stream, the water bo-
gins to color ot a deeper green: and thence to the eiiue of soundings there is a strong
current from the eastward. The color of the water from green, turns to muddy when
* Captain Thomas Hamlin, in ihe brifj Rpcnvrry. then in the Gulf Stream, was set to the nor h-
ward lil4 miles, in ilie 24 hours of the 2 lih March, IH'.'i). The ship's pliico, at Dmtn, 28^ 4' N.,
7!)J .)!) W. To tlic iKirth-i'iistward, on tiic ik^xi day. wiihoiit the .Sircaiii in lai. 29-' 35', Jong. 77^
2j', liio current was I'liuiul to liavo set only 1 1 niilcs norlli, but cojisidcrai)iy niorr to the enstwaid.
On the Itiih February, 1818, tlie ship Mars, under the same coiniiuiiuJer, was at the back of tho
Matcruillo Hank, and no northerly current wsis tbuiid ; and nearly two degrees farlhrr castsvnrd,in
2S' 7' N., and 76 J 53' \V. ihv. current, in 24 hours, had set 3' S. and 14' E. The ship was, there,
fore, evidently in the off.srt from the Gulf .'^Ireain.
Ill proceeding onward, towards Ireland, in March, Capi. IlaiiiJin pasFcd nbeut four deirrers to
the northward of the A/ores, and was favored by an imsterly current from the parallel of 3.5^^, and
nier'dian of 57^, until he reached the Sailers, on ihc S. E. coast, where his dilTeronces amounted to
3^3,i' R.
Capt. Hamlin, in the Recovery, on his passaife outward tri Ilalifiix, September, 1819, found the
current wesierlv, from 45' to 3 )' jier day, betwciMi the parallels of 51^' iind 40^, long, 29^ to 37^. A
gale, trom lhe28;h to the 3 lib Sept. disturlnd the ship's course in about 4;P N. and 41'^ W. after
whicli, to i.liu eastward of the Newfoundland IJank, tl e current was found to set strongly to the east,
ward. Tho ship imssed over liii! hank in the jiarallel of 43-' : tho current still strong to the etistward ;
apparently the Gulf Stream. The Recovery ihenc proceeded to the southern edge of liaiuiuereau,
still lindint; a strong easterly current, but with diininisbcd sirengtb, whicli continued iliencu to the
Bank of Sahle Island.
The brig afterwards proceeded from Halifax to Jamaica ; and on the 22d of Nov. 1819, in 40° N.
62^ W. found a slight current to the southward ; which, in the parallel of 2t)'^ to 23^, near the me-
ridian of 64°, had changed to the eastward ; but, on approachiujj the Silver Key Passage, a slight
current to the westward appeared to prevail.
84
666
BLUNT 3 AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
on soundings, the current still continiiinjEj until within the inflnpiicp of tlir tide;; ]},j,
eastern current is. no doubt, occasioned by the discharge of water out of t!ie ( 'bt'sjippnj,,,
by the floods from the snow nipltinu; in the country; and it prevails, in sotiip (|,.j,f,^'
throughout the year, l)ut its ellect is tireatcr at this time. It is probaiilc that a siiijii;,J
current prevails oil the mouth of the Diiawaie.
Round the east end of Long Islaiiil, and thence to the eastward round N;intiirUt
Shoals, across George's IJank, to Ca|)e Sable, a strong tide runs; the Hood setting to it,
north and west, in order to fill up the bays, rivers, anri inlets, and the ebb the cumriirv
The tides that set across (Jeorge's iJank into the Bay of Fundy, arc very much intinrniH
by the winds. ])articularly if after a strong .S. or S. K. wind, it slmuld suddeniv climii.*
to W. or N. W. (circumstances that often lia])|;en,) shiiH will then find iheniscKesdriiii,)
by the outset 50 or (A) miles in the 'J4 hours, or more, to the 8. K. The indraugLiij
also great with S. or 8. E. v :nds, which ought to be jiaid particular altt'iition to.
llpou the Nova Scotia coa^^^t the currents run parallel to the shore, bm more Ircmif-f
from the eastward than from tin; westward, partictilailj in the s[)ring : ilie siiniii. v
winds force them upon the shore by the water riimiiiig in. to fdl up the bays and JnlnJ.
and the N. and N. W. winds have the same eflect iii forcing them olVsliorc. A re'ulir
tide here runs along shore; the Hood from E. N. E.
Remarks on tJu foregoing, and on the Gmcral Charnrter oj the Tiorth Atlantic Curmu
by IV. C. Red field.
It appears from the foregoing observations, that immediately contiguous to the kr-
ders of the (iulf Stream, on the coast of the L'nited .States, a moderate current Kpw.
rally found setting to the southward and westward, or in the direction which is o|)|iii>i;e
to the Stream, and parallel to the American coast. By a familiar association. iIim,
styled, by all the fore-mentioned observers, as an eddij current ; but we shall pnilutv
find, on more ])articular inquiry, that it has little or no claim to this characirr. A'l
eddy, as is well known, is usually caused by some fixed obstacle ojiposed to a sircan,,
and is nearly circular in its action. Moreover, it derives its waters directly (ioni ile
parent stream, and necessarily partakes of the same temperature. I must, thinibrc,
dissent from the views of those persons who refer this current to the •'ddying luiionol
the Gulf Stream, for these reasons:
1st. Because this current, in open sea, nowhere assumes the form of an eddv. hiii,
when unobstructed by violent winds, |)ursues its course towards the south-west, una
line which is parallel to the general directicm of the coast.
2d. Because, on the outward edge of the (Jiilf .Stream at least, there are no ohsiadcs
presented which could divert tlie progress of that portion of the Stream, and circurascnbe
the saiue in eddies.
3d. Because, if this current was derived from the fJulf Stream, it must ntcfsMriiv
partake of its temperature ; but the sudden reduction of tem|)erature on lenviim tlio
margin of the (!ulf Stream is most remarkable, and is almost unparalleled, except in liie
immediate vicinity of ice.
We shall in vain attempt to explain this extraordinary change of temperature liv the
proximity of shallows or soundings, for this cannot avail if the water itself he denved
from the Gulf current, to say nothing here of the general unsoundness of this ex|il;inalioii.
I Lave long since become satisfied that the curriMit in (|uestion is neither mori' rinrlcs!
than a direct continuation of tlie polar or Labrador current, which bears sniiih«;ii(i ilie
great stream of drift ice from Davis' Strait, and which, in its progress to the lower I iii-
4 tudes, is kept in constant proximity to the American coast by the same dynaniiriillm
or influence, which, in the northern hemisphere, causes all currents which |i;issiii;
southerly direction to incline to the westward, in consequence o( the increasing rdialu'
Telocity of the earth's surface in tlie opposite direction, as in the case of the trade wiiiu
in the 'ower latitudes.
In ci)llating the observations of various navigators, we find reason to conclinle tli;;,
in ordinary states of weather, this current may be traced from the coast of .N'ewroiii--
land to Gape Hatteras, and, j)erliaps, to Florida, the reflux influence which fullon'J
violent gale being of short duration.
According to this view of the case, tlie Gulf Stream, in its course from FInriihio
the Bank of Newfoundland, is for the most jiart imbedded or stratiliid upon a ciirrpiit
which is setting in the opposite direction in its progress from the polar regions. The
impulses by which these diverse currents are maintained, being as permanent and un-
changing as the diurnal rotation of our planet, their opposite courses on this coast, nlnle
ia contact with each other, are no more surprising or incxplicuble than those of two op-
posite currents of
ses lor a long peri
From the fact t
oilier ill the polar
inoinftcr ; and wit
teimiiiod with gr
between Nantuck-
rontriliute sometl
itirations are reipi
It is (lesiral)lp, tli«
and record bis ob.'
The drift ice fn
North Ailanlic (
writer in the Lon
after bearing llio i
becomes exiiaiisli
is undoiibloilly ill
tirand Maiik ilsell
jiroccss during a I
ter ill IK) otlipr in;
bosom, the order n
perafiire. The ici
after the latter hai
by the tepid wate
olistriictioiis whic
These Hvo stream
but like other cii
course, the (iulf ."
a((|iiired in latitiu
along the shoals
depths, liy the tar
The writer abo\
Davis' Strait, to b
to tlie elfi'ct of th
drifts which are Ix
spite of the powe
however, like bott
yield greatly to tl
the (iiilf Stream \
Europe, where a I
tlie coast of Ndrvv
The south-easterl
gravitation, bv tlir
merges in the Fli
subordinate gyrati
system of oceanic
wholly unfelt upoi
taiiied, in all its es
coiniiined with an
From the tempr
in some other posil
ture of the sea is 1
satisfactorily for si
deed been ascribei
that siudi radialioi
the colder partich
how the supposed
temperature of a c
source ; for on no
Were it otherwise
in winter, and an i
I tropical latitudes.
work, who has ke[
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
e67
antic Curmu,
>IIS to tiK' Ik:-
urrcnt is unc-
ich is o))|iii>i!e
iciiilion. iliiMs
:li;ir;i(:ifr. An
eil to a sircsiii,
•ctly from il.e
ust, thfrcl'ort',
lying :i(iionof
fTii eddy, bm,
lUlh-ncst, ona
rr HO ohstaflfs
d circuiiiscribe
ist necessarily
HI lt';lvill^ tlie
I, exec jit in the
lonitiirp liv ilie
K'lf l)P ijpriveij
iisex|il;iiinii(in.
r iiioic ruirli-<
soiith«;ini ilie
llie louer I I;-
(lyiiiuiiir.il l,i»
liicli jiiiss in:
riisinjr ro(;ilii'
he tnidcwiiii.!
conrliide lliii.
of Nt'ivl'diii'.-
Iiieh t'ullo»>J
oin FInriil.iin
J poll ;i fiirmii
regions. The
luient and un- j
lis coast, while
lose of two op-
no'ile ciirronts of atmosphere, and the latter are oHen known to maintain opposite cour-
ses tor a loiij |)eriod aiul at hi;ili velocities, while tiiiis su|)eriniposcd one upon the other.
i'roiii the fact that tliose j^n-at currents have their oriiL'iti, one in (he tropica! and the
her in the polar seas, tlicir presence can be nnlailinuly identided hy means of the tlier-
01 .
jnomi'ier; and with the aid of ijood ciirononietiMs ilieir po-^ition and extent may be de-
termined with greater certainty than has yet been done, particularly in the latitudes
between i\antiicket and Florida. In this department of hydrology every navigator may
rontril)ate soniething of value to his profession and to science, for which no other qual-
ifications are re(piired tiian fre(|m!nt observations and proper attention to the ship's place.
It is (lesirid)le, tlierefore, that every ship master wiio traverses this region, should make
and record his observations hourly upon these currents.
The drift ice from the ptdar l)asin is all found in the western portion of the Arctic and
North Atbnlic Oceans, iiotwitlislandiiiK tlie inlluence of violent westerly winds. A
writer in
the I.
onilo
II Nautical Magazine* supposes that a portion of the polar current,
after bearing the ice along the eastern edge of the (Jrand IJank into the Atlantic, there
becomes exhausted, or joins liie l''lori(';! Stream. Hy its action the great stream of ice
is undoubtedly thus brought within the dissolving influence of the (xuif Stream, and the
(irand Maiik itself, perhaps, owes its origin to the deposits which have resulted from this
process during a long course of ages. Hut the former current proiiably "joins" the lat-
ter in no other manner than i)y passing under the same, or yicdding it a |rassage U[)on its
bosom, the order of super-piisition i)eing mainly determined by the great diversity of tem-
perature. The iceberirs being tiius carried southward by the deeper ])nlar current, even
after the latter has lost its induenceat the surface, their rapid destruction is here effected
by the tejiid water of the (iulf Stream, and we are thus relieved from the dangerous
obstructions which would otherwise be found in the lower latitudes of the Atlantic.
These two streams of current, theretore, neither meet nor coalesce in any proper sense,
but like other currents, both atmos|)heric and aqueous, pursue each its determinate
I'onrse, the (Iulf Stream being thrown eastward l)y the greater rotative velocity which it
ar(|uired in latitudes nearer the equator, and the polar current being thrown westward
along the siioals and soundiuj;s of the American continent, and its contiguous ocean
depths, by the tardy rotation which it derived in higher latitudes.
The writer ai)ove alluded to, sui)|)oscs the natural course of the polar current from
i>avis' Strait, to be towards the coast of Moroceo, in North Africa ; but a little attention
til the -ilfi-ct of the earth's rotation mi this current, will show that both it and the ice
drifts whieli are i)orne on its surface must be turned westward as here described, in de-
s|)iie of the powerfiil westerly gales which ])revail in these latitudes. Light articles,
however, like bottles, which are set afloat to (leterniinc the drift of currents, will not only
yield greatly to the influence of these winds, but on falling into the surface current of
the (lulf Stream will, of course, accompany that current in its progress to the coast of
Europe, where a leading brancli of this siream i-; found penetrating the polar sea along
tlie coast of Norway, and appears to be ultimately resolved into the Labrador current.
The south-easterly branch of the Stream assumes the shorter and more direct circuit of
gravitation, by the coast of North Africa to the tropical latitudes, from whence it again
merges in the Florida Stream. If is by this system of compensation, aided by various
subordinate gyrations, such for instance as Keniiprs currei.t, that the great mechanical
system of oceanic circulation is apparently maintained ; and were the influence of windff
wholly unfelt upon the ocean, it is probable that the same system would still be main-
tained, in all its essential features, by the mechanical influences of the earth's rotation,
combined with an unstable state of equilibrium.
Frmn the tem|ieratiire of the sea upon the North American banks and soundings, and
in some other positions which are analogous, it has been assumed that the mean tempera-
ture of the sea is lower on shoals than in deep water, but it seems difficult to acco-int
satisfactorily for such a result, unless upon the ground already mentioned. It has m-
dced been ascribed to increased radiation from the bottom, and again it has been denied
that siudi radiation can be carried on through water from a non-luminous body ; and, as
tlie colder particles can have no tendency to rise towards the surface, it does not appear
how the supimsed reduction in the temperature of the bottom can materially affect the
temperature of a current of fifty or sixty fathoms in depth, which is derived from a foreign
source ; for on none of these shoals or soundings is the water permanently quiescent.
Were it otherwise, we might reasonably expect a diminution of temperature on shoals
in winter, and an increase of lemperalure in summer, with a permanent increase if in
tropical latitudes. I am informed by Mr. (4eo. W. Blunt, one of the proprietors of this
work, who has kept a thermometrical journal while crossing the Atlantic, that on enter-
» Nautical Magazine for Miirch, 1837, p. 139. In this nrticle it \b stated that between 42° and
43^ west, is tho farthest easterly position in vehich floating masses of ice have been found.
C68
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ing upon sonndings in llie Knglisli Chiinnd, he has found an inrrease of temppntiupin
the wiitPr of 'J", Fahreiilu'it. Those who dilier from our views in regard to these ( uriinis
ouji;ht therefore to propose some rational iiyjiothesis to account for the preat reiliur,, J
of temi)erature in tl)e waters wliicli iav(! the Atlantic coast of the L't)ited Stales. Wv,,,
these waters derived as an eddy current from the (Julf .Stream, it is |)rol)ahle iliat ii,y
would no Ian4;er serve for the myriads of codfish which now frequent our shores, arH
wliich are known to inhabit the c(ddest waters.
Many exiieriments ii|)on tlie drift of ctirrents have been made with bottles conlpinir)
memorandums of tiie date and locality in which they were committed to the sea. Tlit-i^
experiments are not without their value, allhoutih it is obvious that a cirrnitous cuuw
is liable to be constriu'd into a direct one, and tluu violent winds may greatly all'ect ij,;
course of such objects upon the surface of the ocean, while an important diversionniiv
result from a mere siiperlicial cross current, as we liave noti('c<l in the case of ilie (iij
Stream. Perhaps tlu! sus'pension of a fmht .veighl to these floats, with a line ricniiif
to twenty fathoms in length, would allbrd results of a more satisfactory ( liarnciei, ,|.
though the duration of such pendulous fixtures can linrdly be relied on. Ifliticdi,
this maimer the fact should be noted upon the memoranilum inclosed, which skiij
specify also the length of line which may be atlachcd.
TIDES.
TIDE is a periodical motion of the water of the sea, by wliich it ebbs and (InwctBicp
a day. The (low coiiliniies about 6 hours, during which the water gradually rises tiHn
arrives to its greatest height; then it bejiiiis to ebb or decrease, and continues to do-o
for about 6 more, till it has fallen to nearly its former level ; then the flow begins ;is L.
fore. When the water has allained its greatest height, it is said to je high water, :i; ;
wlienit has done falling, it is called low water.
The cause ol'tlie tides is supposed to be the unequal attraction of the sun and ii:(/(,i
upon different parts ol the earth. For they attract the i)artst)f the earth's surliKcmu-
est to them, with a ijieater force than they do its centre, and attract ll;e ( entre nion ilin
tliey do the opposite surface. To restore this ecuiililiiiiim the waters lake a s|i||r,i;„|
figure, whose longer axix is directed towards the all rac ling luniieaiy. Ill lie iiki. n nii v
acted upon the water, the time ol high water would be when the iiiO(;ii was ii|Liiil.e
meridian, above or below the horizon, or rather at an hour or two after, (bc(aii,«niiie
moon eoniinues to act with considerable lorce for some time after p.assing the iiieiiiii.iM.)
But the iiiiion passes the Uk ridiaii about I'lni. I;,ler eveiy day : of c(Jin>e. if >!;(' inly
acted on the tides, they would be retarded every lii.y -l';m, and it would be hij;li unierai
the same distance from her passing the mt ridian, ajul it is upon this princi|ilc iLalilie
time of liigh water is calculated in most books of navigation, altliougli the tiiretliis
calculated will sometimes dill'er an liour IVom the iiiiih, o>>iimtotlie negled olilieilis-
turbing force of the sun. The eli'eet of the moon upon the tides is greater lliaii lli;it(,f
the sun, notw itlistaiiding the (|iiantity of matter in the hitler is va.^tly greater limn inil.e
former; but the sun being at a nuudi greater distance from the e.irtli than ilicnicdi,
attracts the dilferent parts of the earth with neaily tlie same force ; wlM-reas the niniin
t;eing at a much less distance, attracts the diliereni pails ot'the earlli wiiii very ililleifiil
forces. According to the latest observations, the mean lorce of the sun for .'aisini: il;e
tides, is to the mean force of the moon as 1 to 2,',. Uy the combined elifM't ol'ihrseiiu
forces, the tides come on sooner when the moon is in her fust and third (piaru is, in:
later in the second and fourth quarters, than they would do if caused only by ibrniiiei.
attraction. The mean (|iiaiitity of this acceleration and retardation is given intlR'Tul-
B, subjoined, the use of which will be explained liereafier.
The tides are greater than common about three days after the new and full iimo':
these are called spring tides. And the tides are lower than common about three il."-
after the first ai)il last (|uarters . these are called the iK.ap tides. In the I'oriner rnseile
sun and the moon conspire to raise the fide in the same idace, but in the latter tlie 'ej
raises the water where the moo*; depresses it. \\'hen the moon is in l.er perigee, ir
nearest approach to the earth., the tides rise higher than they do, under the saiiieiif-
cumstances, at other limes, and are lowest when she is in her apogee, or fariliest dis-
tance from the earth. Tl e spring tides are greatest about the time of the eipiinnxb,
in March and September, and the neap tides are less. All these things woiiiil obtain
exactly, were the whole •••urface of tlie earth covered with sea; but the iutciiupiioii»
raiised by the con
rases. A small in
jjccause the actio
such seas. In ve
Fill in rhc obser
and full moon at t
Tlii'se times are p
onler in the table,
peniling on the g
tardc'l every day.
wliich reason I sh
joined tables A an
water may be obla
Find the time n
ill pay;e dth oltlic
given place, in tin
be apjilied to the
loii<;itiide, but sub
the time that the
Tabic B, and take
of passing the inei
to the direction ol
T ' his correcte
will be the lime o
day. If this sum
the remainder will
if it exceed 'Mb. 4
will be the lime of
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
6G9
faused by the continents, islands, shoals, Arc, entirely alter the state of the tides in many
rases. A small inland sea, such as the 3I('(iiteir;uiean or ]5alti<', is little swlject to tides,
bccanse the action of the sum and iv.nun is aluavs neaily e(iiial at the extremities of
siiih seas. In very hijih latitudes the tides are inconsideral)le.
From rhc observations of many persons, the times of hit;h water on tlie days of new
and lull moon at the |)rin(i|>al places in N'ortli and ."^outli America, have i)een collected.
Thi'sR times are put in a table against the names of the places, arranired in alphabetical
order in the table. The nu)st common rule jirescribed for (indins; liiijh water is that de-
peniiltii; on the golden number and epact, the tide bcinj; supjjosed to be unifoimly re-
tanlod every day. This method will sometimes dilfer two hours from the truili, for
wbicli reason 1 shall not iiise.t it. but shall proceed to exidain the calculation by the ad-
joined tables A anil 1», and the Nautiial Almanac, by means of which the time of hiph
water may be obtained to a greater degree of exactness thim from our conunon almanacs.
RULK.
Find the time of the moon's eomina; to the meridian at Greenwich on the given day,
in page ()th of the Naulicd Almanac. Jlnter the 'J'able A, and (ind the lontiilnde of the
given place, in the left hand colunm. corresponding to which is a miniber of mmutes to
be applied lo the time ot' passiiii; the nu^ridian at (IretMiwich, by adding when in west
Ion<;ituile, but sul)tracting when in east longitude. 'J'lie sum or difference will be nearly
the time that the moon passes the meridian of the given place. With this time enter
Table B, and lake out the corresponding correction, which is to be ap|)lie(l to the time
of pas>;ing the meridian of the place of observation, by adding or subtracti..g, according
to tlie direction of the fable.
T bis corre('ted tinu' add the time of !'ull sea on the full and change days. The sum
will be the time of high water at the given place, reckoning from the noon of the given
day. If this sum be greater than TJh. 'Jim. you must subtract I'Jh. -Mm. from it, and
tlie remainder will bo the time of liitrh water nearly, reckoning from the same noon; or
it it exceed 'Mil. 4^m. you must subtract ^411. -ISni. from that sum, and the remainder
will be the time of high water, reckoning from the same noon nearly.
EXAMPLE L
Re(|uired the titue of high water at Charleston, (S. C.,) March 17, 1820, in the after-
noon, civil account.
By the Nautical Almanac T find that the moon passed tlie meridian of d'reenwieh at
2h. ."Jim. ; to this I add 11m., taken from Table A, corresponding to the longitude of
Charleston. With the sum 'Jh. 4-,'iii. I ent(>r the Table H. and find (by taking propor-
tional parts) that the correi tion is l.")!!!., which is to he subttacted frctiii "Jh. 4'Jm. (be-
cause immediately over it in the table it is marked 8ub. ;) to the remainder, Ih. 67m.,
I add the time of lii<-h water on the full and change days, 7li. l.'im. (which is found in
the tide tal)le following;) the sum 'Jh. 1-Jm. is the time of high water on the afternoon
of march 17, 1820, civil account.
EXAMPLE II.
Required the time of high water at i'ortland, Maine, May 23, 1820, in the afternoon,
civil account.
l?y the Nautical Almanac the moon will pass the meridian of Greenwich at 8 hours 49
muuites. The correction from Table A, corresponding to 70'^, the longitude of Port-
land is 'Jm., which added to 8li. 4ym. gives the time of the moon's siaahintr at Portland
Bh. 'irim. nearly. The number in Table B corresponding to Hh. ,58m. is\>;im., which
IS to be added to Hh. 58m. (because immediately over it, in the table, is marked Add.)
lo the sum f)h. 21 in. 1 add the tiire of liigh water, on the full and change days, lOh.
4.^111., and the sun is 20li. (mi.; conse(iuently the hich water is at 2nh. bin. past noon
of May 2:}, that is, at Hh. 6m. A. M. of May 24. And by subtracting 12h. 24ni. from
2()li. 6m. we have 7h. 42m. which will be nearly the time of high water on the afternoon
of May 2;i, IH-JO. *
In this manner we may obtain tlie i.mc of high water at any place, to a considerable
degree ol accuracy. But the tides are so iniuh influenced by the winds, freshets, <Scc.
that the calculated times will sometimes differ a little from the truth.
Many pilots reckon the time of hiuh water by the point of the compas the moon is
upon at that tune, allowing 45m. for each point. Thus on the full and change days, if
itis high water at noon they .say a north and south moon makes full sea ; and if at llh, •
Urn. they say a S. by E. or N. by W. moon makes full sea : and in likfc manner for
670
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
any other time. Etit it is a very inaccurate way of finding the time of full sea by i|ie
bearing of tiie moon, except in places where it is high water about noon on the full ;ii,i|
change days.
When you liave not a Nautical Almanac, you may find the time of high watPriy
means of the following fables (J and I) ; iuid although the fiinner method is the iiuist m.
curate, yet the i:itter may he useful in many cases. To calculate the time of full seaU
this method, observe the following
RULE.
Enter Table C, and ttke out the number which stands opposite to the year, and under
the month for which the tide is to be cidculatcd ; this number added to the day nfilie
Hionth, will give the moon's age, rejecting ."() when the sum exceeds tliat ninnlier,
Against her age, found in the left hand column of Table 1), is a number of hours ;ir,J
minutes in the adjoined column, which being ailded to the time of high water at lie
given |)Iace on the full and ciiansie days, will give the time of high water recpiired, ov
serving to reject TJli. 24m. or 24h. 4Hmi. when the sum exceeds citlier of those times.
By this rule I shall work the two succeeding examples.
EXAMPLE J II.
Required tlie time of high water at Charleston, (8. C.,) March 17, 1820, in the afier-
noon, civil account.
In the Table C, opposite 1820, and under March, stands Ifi, which added to fhednvrif
the month 17, gives 33, and by subtracting 30 leaves 3. the moon's age. Opposite Sin
Table T), is Ih. 4()m., which added (o 7h. lorn., the time of high water on the fuiliiiil
change days, gives yh. Im. for the time of high water — did'ering llui. from the foriim
method.
EXAMPLE IV.
Required the time of high water at Portland, (Maine,) May 23, 1820, in the afternoon.
civil account.
In tlie Table C, opposite 1R20, and under May, stands IB, which added to tli'd.ivof
the month. 23, gives (by neglecting 30) the moon's age 11. Opposite to this, ii; TiiLle
D, is ')h. I'hn., wliich added to ]0h. 4om., the time of liigh water on the full and (li;iii;;e
days, gives 20h. Im., from which subtracting 12h. 24m., there remains 7h. 40in. I'unlie
time of full sea. May 23, ISJO. This dillVrs 2m. frotn the formermethod.
In the third column of Table D, is given the time of the moon's coming to tlie mni-
dian, for every day of her age : thus, opposite 11 days stands 8h. 57m., which is ihe
time of her coming to the meridian on that day- This table may be of some use wIicq
a Nautical Almanac caniioi be procured ; but being calculated upon the supposiiinnibt
the moon moves uniformly in the equator, the table cannot be very accurate, 'riieiiiiin-
bers in this table are reckoned from noon to noon : thus, Ih. A. M. is denoted bj 131).,
2h. A. M.by 14h., tVc.
The time of new moon is easily found, by subtracting tlie nujuber taken from T.ihle
C from 30. Kx. : Suppose it was required to find the time of new moon for MaVil-iti.
By examining the table we find the number corresponding to that fiiue is 18 : this suV
tjucted from .30 leaves 12 ; therefore it will be new moon the 12th May, 1820.
When the time of hiiih water is known for any day of the irioon's age, we may from
thence find the time of high water on the full and change days, by the following
RULE.
Find the time of the moon's coming to the meridian of Greenwich, in the Gfh pacei
the Nautical Almanac ; to this lime apjily the corrections taken from the tables A iii.
B, (in the same manner as directed in the preceding rule for finding the tiiDC ol hi;:
water.) subtract this corrected time from the observed time of high water, and the re-
mainder will be the time of high water on the full and change days.
NoTK. — If the time to he subtracted be greater than the observed time of full sei.
you must increase the latter by 12h. 24m. or by 24h. 48m. nearly.
EXAMPLE.
Suppose that on the 17th of March, 1820, the time of high water at Charleston (S. CI
was found to be at 9h. 12m. P. M., required the time of high water on the full and
chaDg« days.
I finil, as in exa
taking this from 'J
ami change days.
When you havi
full and charme b
Tal.le (', that the
Table 1), is lb.
high water on the
I
I
I
Tami,!'; a.
'1
3
0
3» ,
^ ■
H(
1
1
1
"3 .
^^
11
i
-3
1
i'H
IVii.
M. ni.
0
111
2(1
.3(1
40
50
(iO
70
80
90
100
110
130
13!)
110
150
IGO
170
180
0
1
3
4
5
7
8
9
11
12
14
15
IG
18
19
20
22
23
24
I
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
j:
2
^, In ill! iho precedin,
A arising from the varii
ferf-nt drclinnlions of
time of high water, I
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
671
I find, ns in example 1st, preredina, that thn miml)nr tri he subtrartcd is lli. ^Tm. ;
taking tliis Croiii 'Jli. l:2in. luavus 7li. IJin., wiiicli is tlio timt! of high water on llie lull
ami (•li;»n};p<li>ys.
Wlini vou linve not a Nautical Almanac, you may find the time of high watoron the
full ;tii(l chaiiiri! I)y means of the tahlt-s Oaiiil i). For in the present exaiuple, [ fitul hy
Talili" (', tliat the moon's as^e was :!, correspondina; to which, in the second column of
Tiibie 1', is 111- 4()m. ; (his subtracted from 9h. 7m., leaves 7h. ^Im. for the time of
high water on the full and change days.
Tai
r.K A.
Taiii.i
3 B
U.
Tadm:
U.
Table D. 1
5
-a i
FOR FINDING THE MOO.n's ACE.
o
fcZ
Of
3 s
to
o
fi ^
0 .
5J eL
2 «
^J
A(/(l the number taken from lliis Tabic tc
•<
-1
5 6C .
Cor.
the da}i uf the month ; the sum (rrjerl-
inti 30 or 60 if necessary) will be the
§
3
-3
J II
^ il
Moon's age, nearly.
Day.
s
S
-
II. M.
H, M.
J3
l>g.
0
10
20
M. m.
Hours.
11. M.
Subi
0 1)
Year ~
i^
<5
CL>
—5
_>.
M
-<
0-
O
"^^
>
0
1
2
0 0
0 35
1 1(1
0 0
0 49
1 3^
0
1
3
0
.^H
<%
<
]
1
2
0 17
0 31
182015
17
1()
18
18
20
20
22
23
23
•lo
25
4
1 46
2 22
2 26
5
3 l.'i
30
4
3
0 .'iO
lri-JIi2(.
28
26
2H
2y
1
O
.*
4
5
6
()
()
3 1
4 4
1
1 '\
3 44
4 35
4 53
5 42
40
5
f)
1 It
1822 7
0
7
')
10
11
12
14
15
l(i
17
17
7
6
1 11
H
5 3!)
6 3(1
i>0
7
7
0 35
182;} 18
2(1
18
1')
2(1
•).)
>)•>
24
•■>(.
2(.
28
28
9
G :.•;
7 19
tiO
8
Add
10
8 15
8 f«
70
9
8
0 2
1824 2'J
1
0
1
>)
4
4
f.
8
8
Id
10
11
9 19
H ..-,
80
90
11
12
9
10
11
12
U 2.1
0 21
0 14
0 0
1
13
11
12
13
14
15
16
In
1!)
19
21
12
13
14
15
10 1(1
10 .--vl
11 .33
12 9
9 46
10 31
11 23
12 12
1825
12
1 8->(> 22
25
23
23
24
25
25
27
29
■J
1
>)
Subi
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
16
12 44
13 1
1011
14
13
14
0 i;
0 3
1827| 3
5
3
5
5
6
7
8
10
10
1
12
17
18
19
13 19
13 .--^l
14 31
13 50
14 38
13 27
110
15
If)
0 50
182814
15
15
16
17
18
19
19
21
•).)
2.3
24
lao
16
16
1 ;i
'
''(I
15 11
16 16
17 6
130
IS
17
I it
182') 25
■2G
25
27
2^
2')
(t
1
O
.3
4
5
21
15 ."iG
18
1 ;i
i
22
16 49
17 54
no
ir)0
19
20
19
0 35
Add
1830 G
8
6
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
23
24
17 57
19 17
18 42
19 31
160
170
22
23
20
21
22
0 2
0 23
0 21
18.3117
18
17
18
19
20
21
23
24
25
26
27
25
26
27
20 32
21 33
22 22
20 20
21 9
21 58
23
0 11
1832
28
2«J
28
0
^
.3
.3
5
7
7
8
9
28
23 4
22 46
180
24
24
0 0
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
29
23 42
23 35
1833!l0
11
')
10
11
_13
14
15
17
17
19
19
29 i
24 0
24 0
; of full sei
In all the preceding calculations of the Time of High Water, we have neglected the correction
nrising from the variation of the distances of the sun and moon from the earth, and from the dif.
foront declinations of those objects. These causes might produce a correction of 10' or 12' in the
tune of high water, but in general will be much less, and may, therefore, be neglected.
'J
G72
BI.UiNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
T A n L E,
Shoiriv-r the TTMi:S of IIKifr WAl'llR, at. tlir Full and Cliansr of the M,,.-
at the piinripal J\)rl.s aiii( Jliirlxiin on the Coasts of Aurth and iiouth Amin.l
villi the verticid rlac if the Tide in ft I,
PLACES.
Anticosii I. (W. cti(l)
A|ii)le River (St. Liiwrcncc)
Aiiiiiipolis (N. S.)
Aiigiisiiiic, St
Aniircws, St
.Ann, Cape
Anit'lia Hiirbor
Aniinpolis (Mary land)
.vinazon River
B
Uristrd Bay (Nova Scotin) ..
road Hay
Benaiuniit.es I'oint (St. Law.
retire)
Ben\ir II irhor
Bai^in of Mines, viz.
Windsor
Seven l:-le.s Harbor
Cape Split
Boston Lighthouse
Boston (town)
Barnstable Bay
Block Lsland
Barbadocs (W. 1.) scarcely
perceptible
Berbice
Bermuda Inlet
Cello Isle, Strait.-* of.
Button Island
Buzzard's Bay
Crane Island (St. Lawrence)
Chat (Cape)
Cocayne to Cape Tornientin,
and thence to Fictou Harbor
Chedabucto Bay
Canso Harbor
Canso Cape
Country Harbor to White I.
Bay
Campbell Port
Cumberland Basin Fort
Casco Bay
Cod (Cape)
Charles (Cape)
Churchill (Cape)
Charleston
Cayenne
Delaware River (cnt.)
Dry Tortiigas
DemeraraBay
E
Elizabeth Islands (Tarpaulin
Cove)
Elizabeth Town Point (New
Jersey)
Eastport
TI.ME.
It.
3
11
11
11
11
H
7
G
.M.
30
1.-)
.31)
31
3!)
17
7 4.'i
10 45
1 3I»
8 45
12
11
11 15
10
11 30
11
7 37
7
7 45
I) 50
7 40
12
7
7
8
8
9
7
10 30
10 45
11 3,)
7
7
7
6
45
30
30
45
20
15
9
8 30
4 45
8 40
8 54
II 30
RISES.
EKET.
32
311
36
31
40
1
12
30
13
8
71
!)
(5\
H
5
15
PLACES.
I'
Fort St. .John (Newfoundland)
Frying Fan Shoals
l''o.\ Island (I'tiiobscol)
I'lorldii Kcy.'<(,Sonil)rcro Keys)
TIME.
II.
(!
6
10
8
Fear (Cape) I 8
Green T.-iland (St. Lawrence)
(Jill ofClUINO
(■olds borough
(Itorfre's River
(Jay Head
(Jeorfretown Bar
(.Jut of Annapolis (entrance ol
St. Liiwrencc)
Guudaloujie (irre^'ular)
H
Halifax
Hampton Roads..
Hillsborough Inlet.
Holme.s' Hole
Harbor Delule
Hatteras (('ape)..
Ileiilopen (Cape) .
Henry ((Jape)
Hood, I'ort
Howe, Fort
I
Isle Vertc or Green Island.
Ire Cove
Jackson, Port
K
Kamoiiraxa Isles, St. Law-
rence
Iveiiiieb(>ek
Kennebunk
L
Louisbourg (Nova Scotia)
M
.Matane (St. Lawrence)
.Maiiiconiijjan Buy
.Vlinjan Harbor 'Gulf of St
Lawrence) ,
.Ma hone Bay to Liverpool Har-
bor ((julf of St. Lawrence)
.Meogeney Bay
.Moose Island
.Mount Desert
.Machias
Marblehead
Monomoy Point
Mouths of the Mississippi
Martinico (irregular)
.Martha's Vinyard (W. Point)
Mary's, St. (Bar)
.May (Cape)
8
8
11
10
7
7
10
G
M.
.Ill
30
45
50
40
30
45
37
45
Rlvfv
itV.
3'i
7 31)
8
7 30
10 10
12
i)
8
7
7
8
41)
3;)
3,)
,5
H
8 40
10
8
4 10 ;
10 4.5 I 9
11 13 9
7 15 ;j
12 15
1
3
1:2 ,
11
8
t
12
11 30
2.i
11
V!
U
VI
U 30
11
11 3J
li
1!
6 45
li
7 37
7 30
7
8 45
K J
' -^
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
C73
e of the Mo,.,,
•iouth Allan,
•10
30
10
2 15
1 12
Rlst\
H. M. yrx
3!)
3(1 1
H
-1,.
.5
7
41)
^
1
3,1
6'
8
3,1
t
K
■III
10
H
1
h
3
11
3
t
■)
I 30
25
[
VI
[
!■•
. 30
11
, 3,)'
ll
li
; 45
li
■ 37
■ 30
! 45
()
rr.AcEs.
N II.
Nuiimi'ki't Town 1((
(1(1 .Slioul 10
Nassiii (N. r.) (i
Ni wlkdhjrd G
Ni wlmi}iiiiit !•
Niw llavt.ii 'J
.N'l'w Loihkiii 7
\(»|M)rt : fi
New Yukk H
Xijutliii >ioniid It)
\,ill..lk ! 7
New iiii.! Old Fcrolici (New-l
t'uilliilluild) ! 11
Niirruifiinsct Bay 6
TIMK.
0
Ocr!iC(jck Inlet
Old I'oint Comfort
r
riaccntia Harbor, (Newfound.
land) 9
Pillars (>![. Lawrence) 4
IVim Mille Vaehes (St. Lav
ronee) 2
I'rince lOdward's IhIcs, Clinr-i
lotte Town (St. Lawrer. )( 9
Port Hood (Breton Island)...! 6
Fassaniaijuiiddy I 11
Pcnohscot River.
Portland
I'urlsniouili
I'lviii.mth
P.Jrt Royal
Port Rico, St. Juan.
Providence
PistolctUay
Q
Quebec (St. Lawrence).
R
Restiironcliey Harbor
Race Point
Rhode Island
Rio Janeiro (South America)
Richmond
Roniain (S. C.)
RoyalPort
Roseway, Port
9
9
9
10
5
8
6
5
.M.
3: 1
41
30
45
41)
24
10
51
50
45
7
30
35
15
45
RISES.
30
15
15
45
4G
ao
55
15
4 30
3
10 45
5 15
3
2 20
6 30
'o 46
6 45
lEF.r.
5
5
7
5
10
b
5
5
6
25
10
9
10
114
6
ri.ACES.
TIME.
IllSF.s.
S
.Siinbiiry
Si. Jolin'.s (N'ewlliuiidland)
S[. I'ierre and .Mniuelon (St.
Law rencc)
Seven Islands Harbor ,
.•^1. IS'icoIks Harbor
SidiK >• Hiirbori IJretoii I.><land)
Souih sjiore ol Madame Island
."^liilp Harbor --ut of Cniiso
Sable Island, .-oriliSide
do .-' mtli Side
Spry Harbor (."?t. Lawrence)
Slicpody jiay (St. Lnwrcnee)
•St. Jolin'.H (i\ew Brunswick)
lelburne Harbor
SlieeiiKcut River
Salem
Sandy Hook
St. Simon's Sound
St. Simon's liar
St. Siin(m's Oiling
St. Mary's Dar
St. HariJiolonicw'a (irre'-'j'ur).
Surinam (IJram's Point;
.Salvador St
Savannah
St. Croix River
St. Genevieve and St. Barbc
Hay
Seven Isles Harbor
Seal Island
Split (Cape)
The Traverse (St. Lawrence]
Torbay (Breton Island)
Townsend Harbor
Tobaco (uncertain)
Trinidad (Port Spain)
Tarpauhn Cove
I II.
8
9
1
12
9
8
8
10
8
8
II
12
8
9
10
7
7
G
5
7
4
2
7
10
10
1
7
9
4
8
10
4
7
Vineyard Sound
Vera Cruz (only one tide in 24
hours, irregular) ,
W
Windsor (Bay ofFundy).
Wood's Hole
M.
30
30
30
3!)
311
30
30
15
37
30
30
30
15
45
30
15
45
30
45
45
30
32
9 30
10 .30
7 10
FEi;r.
G(k7
18
12
G
H
^i
7
8
'4
48
25
8
9
11
7
18
18
8
9
3i
6
5
2
60
5
86
()71
IlLl-iNT'ri AMi;i!irAi>' fOAST rii.o'i.
Ct'llUU^T^.
A Cr IvIvlON'l" is III lire -^r lit 111 III" iimltTstiMnl '.is ;i .slir;nii mi. m .1 |r;iiiirii|,'ii .,,•( mu
ilirfctioii of, llif Niii liici' i>{ ilir mm, i)i(ii>iiiiif(| liv w iniN iiml iiilin imi|iiiIm'<, fMlusn,
(liiU wliicli iiiii)' 111- iiilliiciicfil li_v) llic <;misi's III ilic liili's. It is iin nlisfi valmii ol Ij.m.
\wr lliat t:uiiriils an- scan rly i'MI' Ii'Ii l>iil ^'l "'"iii iiml lult's Imi ii|inii ilu- I'nii.si!*; m,,!
it is icitaiiily an rsialilislinl lact lliat (iiniiits pnvail iirsilv iti llinsr parts wlim; ,|„.
titles are weak, anil .scaicciv |K'HH'|ilil)|(', iir wlicii' ihc m a, a|ipanntly liiili' iiiiliii|,„j
by till' cansi's nl tin; liijr, is ilispuM'd to a ijiiirsci'iii Nlalf. 'i'liis uill lir nliv mils li\ .n, .
H'litivf I'onsiiifialiiin ol llu' liillDwiiii; ili^iiipiimis. 'The nrirssiiy ol' alti'iilinn lu ...
HilfUt, iin|ieiTep(il)l(>, ami tlikirlnu' ilan^iiuiis, npriaiiun nl 1 iim iiis. till hv (mjh,, ,
appaii'iit.
Thf ciini'iits of liii- Allaiiiii- are iil'it'ii nt" a lor a! anil temporary niiliiri'; yet f'\|i(r
en*')' iiiis sliiiwn wiirn' anil liow llii'V pri'iliniiinati', ami hmsihi will iiilorni tlir iniup,,
wliori' 111' is to I'xpi'rl ami alJuw lor tin-ir opri alioii.
Willi tlic! i;ri'atost vrioiiiy ol ilit' i'i|iiinoi'lial i iirrnil wi; cannot prclcnil to lii'm,,.
ratcly acipiaintcil. lis cintral ilncciion, wlicn in lull I'orcr, is W. N. W., and in,,.
rally, it is inia<;ini'il, almni one inili' :inil a hall' in the hour, hut increasinu; to iIumiiv.
wuril ; SI) I hat off 1 lie coast ol ( iii\atia it con in ion l\ m'Is al the rate of tuo or tlirti' ini..,
At any consiileralile liisiame Iroin tiie coa>t ol Ainciiia, the easterly current, imi;..;
by tho .iction of violent \V. or N. W. wiinls, is seliloin leli to the s«uiili\varil iiri;ii.:x
consei|itently the sea alioiii ilie Itcriniiilas, anil ilience soiitjiuanl, is tree Irotiiilni:.
Iluenee of this current. The currents here, tlioii';h slow, are pioilneed in the iliiuMi,
of the winil, parliciilarly when il is of Imiu cdijiimance. 'rinse currents aii' imin
stronger near the isLimls ami rocks ol' i>erniuilas ilian at a distance. In a brisk lmIi. i)|f
current lierc has been experienced from I'J to Jr< miles in "Ji hours, in the diriii:(iiii,|
the wind ; at other times, when the wind was not scllled, no current has been \,\uiii
To continui il westeily winds are to he altribnicd the joininon occurrence ii|;i |m,«.
8ai;e from Halifax to the I-lniilish ('haniicl in Id or IS days, viih such curreiiN;Mliii>p
wiiicli carried the bowsprit of the l/illle IJelt, sloop of war, lost near lialilix.m Ij
nunitiis, to the entrance of l>asi|ne IJoads. 'i'he currents of the .Atlantic liavi' si'mn,
the shores of the llelnidi's the producls of .laniaica and ('nba, and of the soiiliiirii|;arij
of North America.
The easterly and sontli-easterly currrnls are blended in their soulhern ri'iiiniis, « ih
the Florida ortiulf Slreani. already described, and lliey do imi yeem to pn *;iil in lie
S. W. of tlic Azores. On the iimtVary, to the W. S. \V. and S. \V. of lliosc i>l,ii,i|,,
tlie currents appear to follow tlie course of ihe tr.ide winds towards the Carllplii'iin Sn;
aud to the southward of the tropic they blend with the ei|ualorial current, wliirli mi.
from K. S. K. to W. N. W. and \V. 'J'ouards the west, they oeiasionally i"itriiiliii
the northward ol ihe I'.eriiiiulas, and even unite with the soulhern edue or ri'llinr ol ihf
Gulf Stream. The existence of these currents has loiif; been known, but a farllin rv,-
mination, and more precise information are still desiderata. The recent i\;iiii|ilis 1,
them which we have to adduce are mil numerous, lint they are salisfactoiy ; lliry.il>J
accord with natural I'aei-:, ami are in unisDn wiih that theory which derives its nuiniis
from the rotary luovenieni of the eaiih, and llie operation ol the trade winds.
"The currents of the Caribbean ."Sea are probably varied by the inllnemr nl li-
moon, and eoniliine in some decree, with the tides, es|ieeially abmit Ciih.i. .liiiiiiiii
and St. Dominiio."
The J)(!rrolero adds, "This id 'a is confiiined iiy what Don Tonpialo I'l driilii. !.■
captain of a friiiate, has coiiiiiiiiniraled to the 1 1 vdroj;raphi(: l5oard. * Aiilioii :li. ru-
rally,' says this oHieer, 'the eiuri'iits beiweeii the .Spanish main and llie West In ;
Islands set towards the fdiirlh i|iiailrinl, (that is, north-westerly.) vcl i, siniicliiis
thoui;li seldom, happens that liny are foiiml setlin;; to the fii^t ipnidiaiil,' • ' N. I
in proof of whieli he stales that he perfectly remembers, ih()ii;;li he cannot i;i\e tiiii'-
nieiits, in conscipience of having lost his journals, that in .July, 1?'>.") or IT'tb, wlnii vis-
ing with a fresh bree/.e from .Sania Martha to.lamaiea, in a schooner, he steered fiir.Mi-
rant Point ; but coiisiderinj; that by kee|iin^ as close hauled as that i tiiirse rcipiimUie
II iii.ili'
must be unable to iiiaki- il before the day was spent, lie |)iel'eired keeping away, t
the land to leeward of it, and did so at H A. JVI., thus au^mentiui; the rate, ol llie v
sailing. At noon he observed the latitude, in coii|unclion with the jiilol, Dun Mii"'-
I'alinti, anil foun
.eepin.- away
\V
^fe
■(•s«l'l
Si
tiiiii and vi'locily
llifv wiMi' lliiec I
"Oil liMviim t
.s;>ia'ii«li siir\eyiii
diT wliii'li llie eh
in; ill 'V '"''!' '''•'''
tlieiii 111 her aiicli
vcMsi'l wa-* seen a
was a vp.'<sel at an
ih,' I'edro Key, 1
spite of liaviii'i to
aiicIl ue I lii'sidi
tilde lie iiliserved
noilliA ird. In ll
foiiiiil the curreiil
111 ike too free wil
" M iieb cuireii
'lit', as was reinai
is the case on its
fiom ( 'artha'iena
three miles fiiiiii
set all sail and r n
erii point : and tli
iloiiblless passed
" In nnne thai
I'orlo Uico, St. I
them, he ri'inarke
miles daily mii;hl
In the .^k'llloir.
8tniii<; and coiitii
rolls tiie waves ovi
which we have ca
no constant curre
ori;;inal jiapers pi
ditVerent officers,
" 111 the. examii
del Tori), made ii
of .April, siroii:; c
that, heavini; to a(
The winds at the
bian proceoded tc
N. and N. N. K.,
10 leagues to the
E. S. K., so that,
of iMij^uel de ]{or
time, from leavinj
verse. On tlie 1
through the l?oca
bending to the E.
Ai;ain, "The c
.Tilly, WIS bound t
currents to tlie mi
and ill such a ma
able to sinht (lapi
" Don .loaoipii
W. of Cape (Jrai
with sijualls; ami
(■ink the same eoi
inilil he arrived a
"The captain
coast, near Haraii
the rate of rather
Finally, " Don
vana to the ("xulf
»i,u\Ts ,\Mi;i::<\N (OAsr imiot
G75
i<iil;ii !.i'i mil
K'M, »'X(;liisu,.,
Viltiiili (if |;,ii|
llir i'(i;i>l>; ,11
';ii'> will It „,,
III If iiilhifi„„i
ItVlilUS I(J ,11,,.
Itl'lltidli Ui .,
'illl lie ri|ii, ^
I'-: >i'l cxiKi,
nil IIk! lllJllii;.,
"M(l tu he 11 .
\V.. ;iii<l .,
ii.u; ti> till' «,..
()»• til Iff Illl,.,.
Clinclil, (Mi:..
iirtl (if l;il.„i
I'c Iroiii iL,
ill till' liiiii,,, ,
rents iirc ii,iii,,j
I ln'isk L';ili', ihf
till' •lilirt,i,||i,|
^ lif''ii lii'iiii),
rriice III' ;i |i,i,«.
iriciil.s;i>i||(,,«e
I lalil'iix, I'l H
tic liiuc -<-i,\\ii
si)Ullu-rii|)am
n rcji'miis, ttnlj
I) |il'rv;iil Id ike
llio'ic ishiiiilv
MrililiiMll Si;i;
■III. wIllI'llMU
ir.illy t'xiciiil 111
r i'i'(l(i\r iil'ihi
II r;iitliri r\,i-
It .■x;iiii)ili's I
iiv ; tlifv iiN'.
cs iis ciiiri'i;'
lllt'liCI' (ll li.'
'nil, I, ,l.iin;i!i
I l'i-,l|-(il;i. I:-
iliiiir:li. ■:!'.■
If Wr>l III .
i, SdlllCtlll'v
.• . • N. I
i| i;nc lili'i/-
'III, u ill'll >':•
:ciTfil I'lir)!''-
(■ rt'(|iiiml.lie
iwiiv, to iiialie
of I lie vcs^i*
, Dou Miiiif!
i
current
G7G
bi.unt's amicuk'an coast pii.ot.
ranwitli in\irli forrr fo tlip N. H. in tlir nioiilli •)(' Drrpmlx-r ; and he iiiMs tliaf, in d,,,
milf, flH* <MirnMil>« tdlloHcd nil known mil-; that near tin- k»'VN llu-y run wiili vkiI,.,,^,
and into llir rliaiitirlH hrlwrcn llirni; >>ii that liy (licin a vi»<sr|, dnnii!; a <'aliii, iri:iv mi,„'
1)1- c.iiiird iMi tlic riTl'-*. It) till' ( liarmrl IxlwriMi tin' keys and coast ol I liuiiliiriK, ,,
tlif Ndiitli, llio water waHriiiind selling to ilu> N. I',., and, nrar llic ciiasl, t<i llir ciNt,"
Ni-ar till- parallid (it li> N. tlic curnnts prodiirrd l)y the N. K. and S. K. trade wi,,,,
iriav lie inia^'inod liMinitc; and lliis united strtani, liidnji: dividfd liy tlu* island of Tnoi.
(lail and tin* Soutiirrn Aruillas, iIiciki" passes inln llie ( 'arililieau Sea.
From the nioutlis nt the Ama/iin, Onmoeti, and ntlier riveix, a vast e()ht\ o| u;,!^,
falls into the K(|uat(irial Sea, innic jiarlu iilarly in the wet season: what eJliM t tlii»n,.
trr may have un the riirrenl is at |iresent unknown. Hut we learn, rroiii the Dcriuiffi,
(le his Antillas, that, "OUtht! coasiH tiltJuyana there are two rurrents : Isf. Tlic ^11,^.
ral or e(|uinoetial current atid aiiothi'r caused liy the tides; the lioiiiidary of the |i|^|^
\'2 leagues (Voin shore, or in the depth oC '» |:itlioni.s of water, from which tnwiinl, ,,
shore, that ol" the tiile is experienced. 'JMie ilili sr-ts to the N. I'!.an<l the Hood fdu ,, ,
Hhorc. In the (riill ol I'aria, also, the tide inllnenccH the cmrents.
" III the southern .straits, orehaiuiels of the Antillas, the velocity of the riirrrnt iiiH>|
is sfddoin under a mile an hour: liiit its ( hanues are so ureat, that it is inipnsKili|(i.„
point out its exact direction, or to esiiililisji any ueneral ride lur its velocity."
"thithe Coloinhian coast, iVoni 'I'rinidad to Cape la \ . I 1. the f iirrenf s«ee|i<!,.
frontier islands, inidinini; someiliiiii; to the south, accordiny to the straits w iii( li it (on ,
from, and ruimiim aliout 1', mile an hour with little dill'erenee. lletwrentlieislaii(K ,|
the coast, and particularly in the proxiniirv ot the latter, it has lieeii rnnarkcd ilm 1.
current, at times, runs to the west, ami at otlnrs. to the east. From Cape la \(|i, i;,
jirincipal part of the current runs \V. N. \V. : and, as if spi'iids. its velocity diniiiii«i„,.
there is, however, a liranch, which runs with the velocity of aliout a mile an liui.r, li,.
rectintj itstdf towards the coast aliout Cartiiaifcna ; from this poiiu. and in the spun „i
sea com|/rehendeil lietween II decrees of latitude anil the ((last, it has, Imwever. Ikh,
ohservt.'d, that, iti a dry season, the current runs to the west\\:u(l, atnl in the MMMirni
the rains, to the eastward.
"On the iMos(|uito Shore, and in the May of Honduras, no rule can lie <;iveii lor ilie
alterations of the ciurcMit. All that can lie said is, at a t;oo(l distance fruin laiiii. ji II^
generally lieen found settins;; towards the N. W.
" In crossini; from the coast, or from ('artha<;ena, to the islands, it has hven iKnnnl
that, from iia (iuayra to the eastern part of St. J)omiTii;o,on a voyage made in |i,,i„i-
ber, a ditference of 100 miles to the westward, was I'ound during the seven tl.iys tliiM,v.
age lasted." — Derrolrrn ilr las AniUhis,
Mr. Town, iti his Directions for the Coldiidiian Coast, has said. " Althonc'li, licnirpn
the island of .lamaica and the Spanish main, westerly (iirreiits arr' most fre(|iii 111. mi
they do not always prevail; for ships have lieen known to he driven liy the ciirn ni Inni
60 to 6(1 miles to the eastward, in 4 or .') days. l''rom the lieiiimiin;; o( .May till .Nninn-
ber, (the rainy season,) the sea-hree/.e sci<lom or ne^r Mows home to the iniiiii: iiinl
ships going there should never go to the southward of (lie latitude of 11 , iiniii tlm
are, at least, 40 or ."iO miles to the westward of their iniendi'd port ; after wliirli ilm
may make a south course, as the land-lnee/e, which is i;ener;il'y from the S. \\',. niid
the strong easterly current, will set you to the eastwiud of your ititemled port, if L'ni?
care be not taken. When to the eastward, if light winds prevail, you must stand lollic
northward until you meet the sea-bree/.e, which will be between the latitudes of lOiini
11 degrees, anri then run to the westward.
"Being off Porto Hello, in His Majesty's ship Salisbury, on or about the 12tli"l
August, IRlfi, and being a little to the eastward of that port, with liulit varialilr winil>
for several days, the sliip was set to the eastward, at the rate of 5U miles per day: ;inii
having been afterwards placed in the same situation, I found it mcessary In iiKike il
land well to the westward, and to keep close to it. From Novi nher until M ly. (1!
dry season,) you should endeavor to make tiie land well to the ea»*ward, and rnii iilii.
shore; as the sea-broe/.es generally blow very strongly, and the cun cutsets totlifHK
ward at the rate of about 2 or ;? miles in an hour.
" iietween Chagre and I'orto-Midlo. during the rainy season, tin re is geiirriliyi
noriherly current, at the rate of from 1', to -i'r miles an hour. After the end of ill'
rainy season the current sets to the southward and westwanl, and strong southerly inl
easterly winrls prevail here. From November until May, (the dry season,) the soiitliff-
ly and westerly are very light winds, except in squalls, which end with heavy rain. !ii
sudden squalls, you will often have the winds from all points of the coini'riiss.
" If at Chagre, at any time during the rainy season, (.May till November.) and boiinl
to the eastward, endeavor to get 4 or .'i leagues frotn the land, so soon as you cm: lif
the winds are, in general, very light, and the current very strong. The latter sets froiu
f'huiire directly
K. N. K., K. S.
'.", miles in an h
and ram appear 1
ilie I iMupass, am
" III crossini;
is anv, it sets alii
" .Ne.ir Cariha
8i)riin it sets to tl
" lletweeti (Ja
dependence on ll
hdine.
" I should rec
shore close to ; '
but also a stron;
to the land than
C.iptain Ijivin
■lime and .luly, I
at a rate, I am (
.^Iississippi at .\'(
verv fresh sen-lir
I 'poll the ( 'iir
lias said, "lull
niife of the ship
in .Vpril and Dec
Aiiioiiio. I iiivari;
I have heard it u
(yape Antonio, li
this ha^, in tli<> a
Farther on, "
.lutii', \>*\7, liefw
minli J? miles ii
We have ;ilre;
(III the currents (
Captains W. .1. (
Captain Capes
northward and w
the current, and
hour. Metweeil
tude 17^ '.»•,'', Ion
these islands, foi
that the attempt
dark night, a slii
" .\lioiit the so
ships to be lost 01
at all times, the (
every two hours.
partnre troiii Mm
till midnight ; it t
not lift till! siiiiihi
then made all sni
sails over tlieni ; I
morning, we wer
hove the sliip to.
"If a ship he 1;
opinion that the i
to the N. \V. ami
trials, which is tl
or east end of R;
will be N. N. W
when they take t
N. W. from the '
west end of Rati
from the east or
Captain Miirne
the trade wind jir
ni.UNT8 AMKUK'AN TOAST I'll.OT
(u7
•l>"llilf, IfllliH
Willi viol,.,,,,,
i'liii.i'i;i_v Mi,„'|
"iMiiliiriis, ,,
to tlu- IMNt."
K. Iriidr' »!,,,,
•slillldol Till;
OIltN of Uil,,
''H'l'tt llio 1,
till' DiTioii-r.
Iff. 'J'llf cone.
' •'(' till' l',l,, ,
•h tdWiinU • „
' (IiMmI tO«;„.,
nirront inws-j
I iiii|iosHili|r.„
tv."
'lit S(M'(.|i* I ,
ivllicli it („n .
tlir ishiiiiK :,|
iiirkcd i||i| ■,.
[If l;i \'('|i. , ,
I.V tlilllilllvl,,,.
«' nil liiii.r, ,i|.
II tho .s|i;in ,.i
liiiMcvfr. hni:
1 I lie MMm,ii„|
!• Jli veil for ilie
'111 liiiid. II )|,|<
bprn iii'<frif(|
iiilf ill iii'ii'iii-
1 tla)s llini,v.
(iri;.'li, liiiwfHn
t t'lC(|l|ltlI. \,I
!«' ciirmit (h'ni
i\\ till .\ii\iiii-
tlie iiiiiiii: iiiiij
1"', iiniil ilipj
tcr M liicii ilin
lie S. \V„nii(i
I port, if zm^
St st;iii(l tollif
lulr.s of 10 ;inii
lit tlie V:{\\«i
v;iri;il)lr wind-
\)cr (liiv : mil'
V (O IIKlkf \\:
mil MiT. (il
iinil run iiinr.
tS to tllf WK-
is i;('iirr;ill> ■•
If end iifi!'
soiitlieily iiril
) the soiitlifi-
\nvy niiii. '"
II ss.
T,) ;ind boiiml
I yoH cm : li'f
itter sets from
riiiiarP ilireetiv on tlie roeks «>f Torto Mellf., nml tlieneo jilonj; the liinil iVoiii K. by N.,
v.. N. K., K. S. K... iiiid iiiiordiiiu ;is tin- l:iiid Im-s : its i;eMii,il laii' iniii!; iVoin 1', tit
'.",' miles in :in lioiir. (insit tare kIumiIiI Im' tiiki'ii ulicii in' n iIh' IiihI, if :i Immvv si|ii;ii|
itiiil r.iiii :i|i|ie;u' to lie eniiiiiiu on. Dining this mhi uil! Ii;i\i' ilic uiml lioiii ;ill points iiC
ilir I iiiii|iiiss, and often mo stroni; that all sail iiiiisi lie taken in.
"Ill irossini: till' <iiill' of Dirien, little or no i iirient will In' (oiind; MJieiiever there
isaii\, it sets alioiii south, S. Ity W., or S. Iiv K. up ilir (iiilf.
•• Near ( 'arllia^riia llie ciirreiit uencrally coi's li\ tlic « in, I ; Imi nlf (he islands of Uo-
sariio It sets to the N. W. and N. N. W., from om- to two miles an hour.
■• lletweeii <'artlia'.!eii;i anil the IMaixdaletia, in tli« rainy season, voii caiiiiiit put any
di'|iendeiiee on ilie winds or eiirrenls ; Imi, (Voiii Novenilier to May, (lie trade wind Mows
lioine.
•'I should re'iMiiiiii'iid, if tiirniiiu to wimlward, with siroti.; Irid" winds, to Kicp the
shore close to; whereas, liy uoiii:; oil' iVoiii the land, yon will not only have a heavy sea,
liut also a stron'4 .N. VV. current. Il' yon have jiiilit variahle winds, approach no nearer
to the land than I or '> leai^iies. as yon ni iv In- certain of an easterly current."
t'aplain Ijivin^sion savs, " I )nrin;; '> weeks in which I rcinaiiied at ( 'artlia'jnia, in
.liiiii- and .liilv, l-^ir,tlic cinr"nt inshore set consiaiilly and stroii'^ly to the noriliward,
at a rale, I am coiivinciil, of not less than 1 ', mili' an hour, or nearly as slron^ as the
Mississippi at .\ew Orleans. 1 have seen the Ivsk, sloop of war, ciirreiit-nide a;;ainsi a
very (Vesh sea-liree/e. when at anchor, iwarlv west fioiii the city, distant altoiit a mile."
1 'poll the ( 'iirreni lietweeii the < ir and ( 'a\ man and ( 'ape Antonio, ( 'apl.iin ,^Ionteath
has said, '• In the nitnllis of Mav, HI I and I-!'), (Iwo voya<,'es in which I was cliief-
iiiiti' of the ship I'rince K'-'^'eui, from lvin_'stoii,) in .lime, 1H17, in thi' ship l''anie ; and
in April and Decenilier, H.'O, in the ship .^Ial•y, lietweeii (irand (Jayiivaii island and Capo
Antonio. I iiivarialilv foiiinl the current seiiin',' siroii;.' to the eastward, or !•",. S. !•;. ; and
I have heard it ^eiierdlv remailo'd that, vessels shaping; a course I'loiii the ('aymans for
(-.ipe Anioiiio, have found tlieiiisi-lves ot'f, or even to the eastward of ('ape ( 'lU'rieiites ;
tills ha-, ill the aliove eases, invariahly happened lo myself."
Farther on, " In inv passage from KiiiListon. towards Campeche, in the ship {''aiiie,
.liine, 1-117, hetween Cape Antonio and Cape (Iitoehe, I hmiid the current lo set duo
nonli 27 miles in a run <d" IH hours."
We leave already i;iveii, in the precediiej; paue, (lie reiiiarU of the .s^paiiish navigators
on the currents of the .Mosipiito Shore and l>ay of I loiidiiias. We now add tlio.sc of
C.iptains W. .1. (!apes, of fjondon. and .fohn Mnrneit. of I'ort (ilasi;ow.
Captain Capes says, " l?etween .lamaiea and ilonacca the current generally sets to the
northward and westward. Here, in May, l.-^ld. 1 was set (-0 niili^s to tin- westward by
the (uirrent, and fi I that it set rather iiorilierlv. finm one i|iiaiter to half a mile an
hour. Hetween .lam lica ',ind Moiiacca ire the islands called the Swan ls|;iiids, in lati-
tude 17^ o-,'', lonuiliide H.T .Sfi'. I would not advise any one hound to the Hay to make
tliese islands. Cor it cannot be nf service, and the current is so very irregular about them,
that the attempl serves only to bou 'der -he iiavi:.rator: and by falliie,' in with them in a
dark ni<i;lil. a ship would be in daii^'cr of running; on shore, as the land is very low.
" About tile southern Four Keys the currents are very uncertain. I have known three
^llips to be lost on these Keys by lyinsr to for the niiiht," after they have made them ; for,
It all times, the current sets siroiiL'iy on ihem ; and. in two of the cases, the ships wore
every two hours, with an intention to keep their station. In one voyai^e I took my de-
jiarlnre from IJonacca at four P. M. with a stroim bree/e from the east, whicdi continued
nil iuidni:j;ht; it then died away, (no uncommon circiimstanee in this part,) so that 1 did
not lift the southern l''our Keys before four P. M. the next day, from ihe fore-yard. I
then made all snus;, and plied to windward, under sinirle-reefed topsails and top-gallant
sails luer them ; tacked ship every iliree hours dnriii^ ninht. and. to mv siirprisi;, in the
mornins;, we were not more than" one or two miles to windward of iliem; so, if I had
hove the sliip to, I have no doubt but she would have been driven on shore by the current.
" If a ship be lyin'^-to, under Kaftan, it will not be amiss to try the current. It is my
opinion that the current about I'.oiiacea takes two diirerent directiotis ; one part setting
to the N. W. and the othi-r part luaiichini; to the .S. .*<. W. T have found it so on several
trials, which is the reason that I prefer lakinu' a departure (for the bay) from the middle
or east end of Rattan; for, if a ship take her departure from the west end, her course
will be N. N. W,; but it very freijuenllv happens that ships s;et down on those reefs
\r w ^^^ ^^^'^ ^'"^"^ ileparture from the west en ' The reason is this: a ship steering
N. W. Irom the west end has mm-e of the ciirre m her beam, which sweeps round the
west end of Rattan very stidn<; ;,t times: cons uitlv ships that take their departure
troin the east or middle part do not feel so mm:. ,.f the current."
<;aptain Hurnett, in his directions for sailing; from the Hay id' Honduras, says, "when
ilic trade wind jirevails, a current, often very strong, sets down between Mauger Key and
G78
IH-UXT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
the NiirtliPiii 'rriiiniilo; tlirrr, (livuiinj;; itself, it sets to the southward, between T
and tlic .Main llci'l'. and to ilic norlhwaid between tiie Triangle Reef and AndxTL-iis K
Jl is must a;l\ isalili'. witii ilic wind iVuni lln" casi tu K. S. K. lo sail to leeward of the '1
an^lf, as yuu will have a siroiii; cmn'ni in your luvor .so suon as you bring it to liie e
iirneir
inl ol'
ilSl-
\OU.
in the (diannid. Ijctwccn llie isiaiid Co/.nniel and the shore, the current along sli
nins at the rate ol' i.earlv 'J', miles an lionr, till lost in the Mexican 8ea."
idte
.Mi;\l('A.\ .'-'■I'KKA.M, \c.— It
bid
verted lacl, tiiat tlicre
ieve, a\v(dl-estal)lisl)ed, althougli a contra
constant indian<;lit on the western side of the (Jlianiiel
Viicalan, into the Mexican Sea: and that there is coinmonly a rellow on the e«A7cr)> side
of the same (diaimid around ('a|)e Aiiloiiio. iVi
Wil
1 (he lot mc
its favor, liis Maji-stv's ship Resistance, C'liptain Adam.
filF iliP
I'miik of ^'n(•ata^. made a course W. X. W. ,1 W. tiearly .-"() Ieay;iies in the -Jl liour?,
I)eeend)er \C, and 17, If^Ofi;* and we have no doubt tiiat many iiistanee.s may be fum,,!
to prove tlic same effect; on the Cuba side only, it appears that vessels have beeiisctio
the sonihward: and Captain .Mand<Mson has stated tha», when a stroiit; easterly wimj
ha>
)een lilowin^ between
Cnl)
l""!orid
1, vesst
Is 1
leaviiiL' to o
tl
i< sonili side 1,1
Cape Antonio, at about two jcaijues from siiore, have, in the course of one night, been
carried against a strong .sea-brec/.e, nearly as higli as Cape Corrientes, being a distiinee
of It) leaLnles^
Krom Cape .\ntoiiio the current sets, nl limrs, to tli" K. S, K. past the Isle off
has iiifornn-d ns that, in March l.-'l.-*, he found the current bet
ptain fjiviniiston
that di
full
the (ireat Cayman and hlc oC Pine
and a half an hour, or ')(i miles in the -J 1 hours. In August, 1H17. he found the setni-ariv
the same, biu the current not half so strong. The .*>panish Directory says, " Fiiiiii
(! d(^ Cm/, on the south si'de of (luba, it is iwttieed that there is a constant rui, nt
C
lothe westward, with some inclination lo the soutiiward or northward, and which has hcf
known sometimes to set -ju miles in a single day." In oppositi(Hi to this, the e.xactwunls
of C'aptain Livingston are, " 1 have twice experienced a strong eurrent setting about K.
S. K. between the Caymans and Isle (d' Pines ; and on the latter of these occasiiins, iioili
my male and inysidf separately calculated it to set about do miles jier day or '2^, per hour.
This, however, I imline to think a very particular case, such as may but seldom ncrur.
The wiinls at this linn- were li^^ht and westerly. On the other occasion, .so far;i</ri'-
eollect, it set about P2 or 11 miles per day only. All my jiapers on these subjects liave
been lost; bnl the first instance was too remarkable to be forgotten."
On the northern coast of St. l)omiiis;o, and in the windward ])assages, there docs not
appear to be anv general current. ( )n the nf)rth side of Cuba the ease is ru'arly the s;iiiip;
but in the chaimel here is a regular tide throughout the year, subject, however, to
certain variations.
The ci>rreiUs of the Carilibean Sea are probably varied by the inlluence of the monn
and cliange of seasons, and coiid)ine, in .sonn- degree, with the tides; especially ;iliout
Cuba, .lam.iica and ."^t. Domingo. t
In an old book. (Kelly's Xavigation, vol. i. 17:):5,) is an abstract from a journal, which
contains the following ])assag(! : — " Retween the west end of Hispaniola and the hlanil
of .Taman:a, if I took my departure upon a full or chaiiiri" of the moon, 1 foiiiidthatl
made many leamies more than 1 did at the i|uarters of the moon. At tlie lull aiiil
change, 1 was lo(d<ing out for the land lonsj: before I saw it; and, at the (|uarters, I wa>
down upon it long before I looked for it. The reasons, as 1 foinid afterwards, were, tliii
the full ami change made a strong windward eurrent, and the coiUrary on the (puulers,
This has been exeiu))lilied in many instances."
On this subjeet Captain Livingston says, " It is a prevailing opinion witli ninny, tlia!
th moon governs entirely the currents among the West India Islands. No doiiht tli'
moon has some elfect on them, but 1 am of opini(Ui that the wimls have a still mort
powerful iiilhiciice.
"It is rarely, indeed, oti the north side of the Island of .lamaiea that there is a wcs;-
erly current when the north and X. \V. winds prevail ; the current then always, oralni'K
always, setting to tlie eastward.
" On the south side of Cuba, when the wind is westerly, which it often is, you areai-
»Thc n irihenniiosi part of the track extends to 21° .^O' N. loii^ntnde 90° 39' W. .
tCnptaiii RovvImikI l!niuke, when once lyinir-to for llic niijht, oil' Cape Antonio, fcaind hiiimJ
next ninrniiii.i' iitf Cape t'orrieaies, i
tCnptaiii f'niter, of the ship R(d)ert, from the Clvde, sumo years since threw a boule overboaru
to the eiistuan! of .\ho \'ehi, on the south coast of Jlayii, ami about thii'teen inoiitha afterwards lie
saw a Cliarlesiown newspaper, at Kini^'ston, .lamaiea, which stated that the bottle had been picW
»p ..n tlic shore, near St. Mary's, in I'loriila.
ways certain of a
as, when the fre?
some degree, lei
to regain I heir It
In the wii.dwa
ward or S. W., ;
when a curretit r
setting ea.stward
also that, when ;i
j)erteive(! on the
J5iU b» tweeii tl
of the currents tr
Jn the IJaUam;
havintr been font
lect, of the eurre
tilla.s, iVe.
In the channel
west; on the sou
erly. its velocit
J5elween (Jren
but tht! general i
Retween St.
northerly ; ami
these islands it si
lietweeri St. I.
the western side
The eurrrent s
to the nortli-vves
mile hourly. iN
An'igna N. W.
JJelween Jiedo
Witliout Rarb
ward of the N'irgi
At the distanct
the Virgin Island
one mile to one i
In the Mona 1
as fre(|iieiuly sett
but Captain' ^Moi
Rico, in lioni hit
N. N. K. at the r
Porto Rico, it in
the western side
From Trinidad
curretU has been
W. also to Carth
From Cartlia"
W., W. N. \V.,";
mile per hour,
ceding |)ages.
At about 40 mi
W. ; changing ti
distance from the
and Vera (Jru/, tl
The action oft
position of the w;
the rotary unttion
to flioiv, (luring a
and which hits frc
reckonings, wIkmi
On the east coi
soons, as before e
them, as well as t
BLUNT S AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
079
wpon Turneir
nl (if I lie Tn.
it t(i the e;isi.
t :ili)ng shdre
iifili a contr.'.
e ('liannti i,i
le eastern side
^flaiii. otf ilip
till' -21 linurs,
may lie Wnii
,ve hfeii setio
easterly winii
south side (if
If night, Ijwn
ins^ a (list;in(e
Isln of Piiifj.
ITCUt hftHKi,
>f full -J l|||l,i
till- set nnrlv
says, "rnnii
iistaiit ciiii'it
liieli Imsbec
le exact Hiirils
[tiny; ahdiiiL
ecasions, l)uih
<r'2}, per hour.
seldom ncciir.
so far IIS I ri'-
suhjcds Laie
here dopsnnt
Illy thps;iiiie;
however, to
of tli»' iiinnn
pecially iiliuut
)f a reflowing current roiiiul Cape Anti
; easily arToimtiMJ I'l
i
ournal, whirh
iml llic Isliiiiil
'omul ihiit!
Lt the I'lill ami
iiarters, I was
(Is, wore, tlwt
the (luailers.
th iiiaiiv, lli;i:
No (loui)t tlie
i ii still inert
IP re is a wcs:-
ays, or aliui!'
is, you are ai-
), fcund liiinsd;
Mittle ovrrliM"'
s afterward? iif
lad been picked
^..jo „ , - lor:
as, when the fresh trailo wind ceases, and the uesierly wimls -.it in, the harrier i<, in
some (iei:ree, leiuoveil, which conrnied the w;iiers m ihc (inHDf .Mi \ico. :iih1 liny seek
to reiiaiii their level as w(!ll hy the Channel of \ ncatan as liy the Siraii <il i''loiiila.''
Ill the windward ('lianiiel of .laniaici the eiincni i;eiicrally seis wiili the wind to lec-
waid or 8. W'., yet, hotli lure and at .lamaica, it is vaiiaiile. Some liavi' aliiinii d that,
when a current runs to leeward, on the south side of .lamaica, there is frei|in nily one
setting; eastward on the north side ; and, at other times, no current is to lie perceived ;
also tlial, when a lee current runs on the north shore, the same circumstances may be
perceived on the south shore as wi^re lietoie ohscivcd on the noilli.
J{iU 1)( twecn the Mona l'assai;e and the Caynians, smilli ol the islands, the lend.ncy
of the currents towards .short; is most coniinonly found to the north-westward.
In the Haliama I'assafics tlie currents are devious; lidih \veather and lee eurr"nts
liaviiit; Ijct'ii I'ound. 'These also appear to he inlluenced hy the tidal causes ; lor tin; tides
are nperuiivc on the hanks, and somclimes set stidn;:ly.
The foUovvim^ is an additional detail ol th<' liest information wv have lieen aide to col-
lect, of the currents ill the Caribbean and Mexican Seas, from llie Dcrroiero de las Au-
tillas, \'c.
In the channel between 'rrinidud ami ( Irenada the cnrnMit has heen (cimd to set nearly
west; on tlie south side lialf a point sunthtrly, and on the north side half a point nortli-
erly. Its velocity from a mile to ;■ mile and a half jier Imnr.
J Jet ween (irenada and St. \' in cent's, aUKiiiir the (Ircnadiiies, tlie ciirn nts art; devious;
but the j^eneral inset appears to he W. hy N.
J5etwecn St. Vincent's and S'. fiiK ia, the current, I'miii the eastward, sets in more
northerly; and within, on the west, it has been foiind settiiiL: to the N. W. Iletween
tliese islands it seems to be as strong; as in any other part ol the ranm'.
Between St. Lucia and Ahirtinitpie ii has been fcund nearly north. \'ery variable on
the western side ol'tlie latter.
The currrent sets nearly in the same miiincr iietwceii Maiiiiii(|iii' and Dominica; but
to the northwestward of the latter, it has been found nearly S. W. ihree-fourlhs of a
mile hourly. Northward of (iuadaloii[)e it sets W. .', S. ami between .Montserrai and
An'igna N. W.
Between Kedonda and Nevis it has been found W. S. \V . half a mile liourly.
Witliout Marbuda and the northern i^les, it has set about W. by N. and to the liorth-
wanhd'the Virgin Isles and I'orto Jiico about W. S. W.
At the distance of about one de;;r.'e, within the ranue of the Carilibei' Islands, and to
the Viriiin islands, the current has been found setting, in ;;en( ral, to tin' W. N. W. from
one mile to one mile and a half an hour.
In the Mona Tassai^e, between Porto Kieo and llayli, the current has been marked
as fre(|uently settiiiir to the N. W. and we havi insianrcs ol a set ihronuh to the S. W. ;
biU Captain Moiitealh, in February, Inld, uhin jiroccediiii; soutliward towards Porto
Rico, ill liom latitude 'J.ii" to '22^, and lonsiitiide (,l to (..■), found the current setting
N. N. K. at the rate of ii) miles in the ^4 hours : and he says that, olf the N. W. end of
Porto Rico, it invariably set from the ( 'aribiieaii Sea to the north and N. N. E. On
the western side of the passai;e it set north, two miles an hour.
From Trinidad, westward, and oli'the north side ■of the Spanish Leeward Isles, the
current has been found settina; west and 8. W. to the (Inlf of Maraeaybo ; thence S.
W. also to {'arthat;eiia : hut it varies, as has been already noticed.
From Carthauena towards the channel of Yucatan, it' has been found N. N. W., N.
W., W. N. W., and N. \V. by N., from I to marly •,' miles, ami then decirasin-; to U
mile per hour. It has also heen found seltinu' to the easfwaril, as shown in the pre-
ccdin^i; jiai^es.
At about 40 miles northward of Cape Catoche, th(> current has Ir«ii found N. W. by
W. ; ehan^in- thence to S. S. \V. olf the N. \V. point of \ iicatan, m'arlv at the same
fhstanee Irom the coasi. J{aie something less than half a mile an hour. Between this
and Vera Cru/, the cnrient ceases.
The action of the S. E. trade wind, in the e(|uaiorial rej^ions, and t'le apparent dis-
position ol the waters in these reirjons to retire westward, which has breii aliribnted to
the rotary motion ol the earth, are considered as the causes of a current which is known
to low,durino- a -real part of the year, from the Etlihipi.^ ( )ccan to the Caribbean Sea,
an( which has lre(|ueiitly carried ships considerably to the west and \V. N. W. of their
rcek()niii;;s, when olf the N. \V. part of Brazil.
Ontl
soons, as befon; explained, hut
them, as well as the part of the coast
le east coast of Brazil th.' currents generally jiartake of the direcliuii of the inon-
vary in velocity according to the advance and decline of
ULUNT's AMKRICAIV COAST PILOT.
Lieutonixnt IIowett'H'.iys, dining the soutlicily monsoon, the currents to the soiitliwnrd
of (Jiipo St. Aiimistiii lire not so powciliil ;is to thi; northward, where they iticrt'iisnn
streiimh until the montlis ol' .lime iiiid .Inly, ;ind tlien ^riidnally decline. On tlic (on.
trary, in tlic nortlieriy monsoon, they are generally very slroni; to the sontliwar(lot(';i|^
St. Ani^Mstin, wlien lliey are uoak to tlie imrlliuard, a-* they h-ive some dilticnity in ||^,.
tacliini; tiiemselves from tiie stre;Tm, whieii runs from the S. K. trade around Cape :m.
Ko(|ue. ?
Mr. J^indley also notices that " A strons; current runs soutliward Ironi Cape St. An-
f^nstin, uoinniencim; about the niiddle of Octoher, and eontumini; until January. iiHt,
whieli there is no partieolar ( iirre:U till the middle id' Aprd, u lien a powerful out; sci..
in nortlicily tdl .Inly, aild then sulisides in like manner."
'J'he c'lr.ents of ih« Kiver I'lata, and other local currents near the shores, liave beco
het'ore noticed, in the Descriptions and Sailiiii,' iJiredions.
The tullowing I'acts estahlish the existence of tlie comhined current; and they sW,
in some de<;rce, its forc^e anil direction towards the lira/ilian (Mtast :
1. In .lime and .Inly, 17')."». the Homhay Castle, East Jnj^aman, between the Isicdf
I'ahn 1 (of the (Janaries) ;uid tlie coast of Hra/il, experienced a westerly current, ainou'i;.
ing to r,',".
2. On'May 20, 1H()2, the CufVnels. East Indiainan, lost the N. E. trade in 8p noitii,
lonfj. '2:1'^. (lained t!ie S. E. trade .hine 4, in .">- N., loii'.:. -J! ^ From the etpnitortif
current was found to set W. and \V, by N., from 'M to b'2 miles daily, till liie cojimj,
IJra/.il was in sifrht on tiie lltli. in 8"" S.
;!. .May ■,>.!, IHOJ, the Sir Eflward llimlies lost the N. E. trade in ()^ N., long, J.;
and the wind was from S. S. E. on ilie tioth, in 5' N., and 'Jli^ 30' W. The triiileUjii
far at souiliward, and the current set stron;;ly to the west.
■1. October H), !-<()."), tlie European (leet lost the N. E. trade in 11° N., long. 'J^■,,lnn
gained the S. E. trade on the -Jbth, in 4^ N., long. 'J") '. On the 4th of Noveniijcr.iu
land of Brazil was seen in lat. (PS.; the wind near the land was at E. by S» and K.^.i.
l>y proceeding too tar to the westward, two ships (d the lleet were wrecked in tlio iiKin.
ina; of tlie 1st of N'ovemlxM', on the l!ocea<, lU' iiow i\ey>, in lat. ."J- ."JV?' S., and ;j;i', W.,
and several others had nearly shared the same fate. This catastrophe had pruiiiiliK
been avoifled by a due knowledge (d, and attention to, tiie elfects of the curreni, iilncli
was subsei|ueiilly ascertained to set 'J.' miles per hour to the westward, near the Kuccis,
f). On the Istol'.liine, ]7').'i, the Kin<: (iecnge. East Indi.unan. crossed the fnt in, jiH
AV., and from liic 'Jd to the .")lh experienced a westerly current of 1 .■)."!'. < )n tlh oili.
Ca])e .St. KiKpie was in sight, and the ship was kept workim: until the Kith, endcivi'iui;
inellectually to weather it. She then stood to the north-eastwaid, closely liaiilcd, id
lat. 1^ N., in ordi-r to reijain the variable >\ ii ds in north latitude, and then proccediiJK,
cress tiie e(piator, which was at length eli'ected.
6. In May and .luiie, IHDT. the transpmts, laden with (U'dnance stores, for tlic ;iriiiy
at Monte \'ideo, by crossing the e(pialor too far to the wrsi«ard, were carried .so liir in
this direction by the current, thatthey could not get to tlie southward ol Ca|)(' Au;;iis-
tin, (li I. ri^ 2."5' S.,) and were twice obliijed to stand to tlie northward, into variabji' «iiiil<,
to regain easting, after having allempted inelfeeiually to gain the re ular soiiliitM
trade wind.
7. It is a well known fact, that several sliips have made the isle of Fernando Nornnlia,
on their outward bound jiassage to India, by the currents having set thei to tiiewisi-
ward, after the failure of the N. E. trade wind. The current runs strongly about tliij
island.
WIIVDS.
WIND is a sensible current or movement of the atmosphere over the earlli's .siirl
The Winds are divided into I'crcnnial, Periodical, and X'ariablc. They are akso divi
into (Teneral and Particular. Perennial, or Constant Winds, are those whidi al« >•
blow till' same way ; such is that easterly wind, between the trojiics. commonly callidi:
Trade Wind. Periodical Win<ls are those which constantly return at certain tiim-
such are land and sea-bree/,es, blowing alternately from land to sea, and from sea t(i In
Variable, or Erratic Winds, are sufdi as blow now this way, now that, and are ii'
up, now hushed, without regularity either as to time or place: such are the winds prc^
lent to the northward of 30° N. latitude.
*'riiecuu.'<C8of '!
dclphia ;— The iiir,
Ijciu, und it does n
earili, will crive pla
clcviitidii, one sirni
ultitude, as denser
niucli dcii.'icr hy lli
wanner. Hence,
eacli iitlier. Vet.
c.\';eed that in di.
picpoiulcra^e niid
with iiicre:isiMt;\i|(
itioreascN as it falls
it rises, niid Ikmht
tlcnly varving curn
nul, Xo. 1-2.
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
C81
the soutliwarrl
icy iiicriMsc ill
On tlic ((,i|.
tllW;ll(l(ll(';i|,.
liUiiiiiiy III 1,
ouiitl Capi' >
1 Cape St. Ai,
.lanuiiiy, im,.
iverl'ul out! m-
)res, liavc beci
and they slioit,
een the Isle,i
irrent, aniouii;.
le in 8\° nnrili,
tlu' (•(|ir,itiirt!'t
till tlie coHM i,
' N., lone. .'•".
Tiie trade Li;;
, lonj;. 2f-.3ni;
NovenihiT, !!•
S. and K.f^.l.
(mI in till' iiin!:
1., and;!;;: \V„
le liad pri)ii;iliK
curreiii, Him).
ear tho /idcc.is,
I the l;iii'iii:;ii
'. ( )ii ilif .^ili,
th, eii(ie;ivii'mg
iscly iiaiilt'il, iii
■n ijrofcedtMJ to
s, tor tlif iiriiiv
ariicri so far in
t" ( 'a|)(' Aiijiiis-
variaiiji' winds,
liar soiilii-easi
ando Nornnlia,
to llie wi'st-
ugly about thii
*
rartli'ssuit
arc also divi-:
which al«a>'
loidy calli'iliiis
cfiiain liiiifs;
oni sea to \wi
t, and are no«
le windsprcvi
PERENNIAL or TRADE WINT3. — Over extensive tracts of ocean, in the lower
liiiiadfs, or toward the equator, Perennial or Trade Winds are found to prevail, which
lojlinv tin; cour.se of tiie sun : thus, on the Allanli<' Ocean, at about HM) leaf;ue.s from
liie AlVuiiUi shore, between llie latitutb's of 10 anil •,*(> de<;rees, a constant bree/.e |)revails
lioiu tlie iiorili-easlward. Cpon approachinu the .Xincrican side, lliis N. K. wind be-
r (lines more easterly, or seldom blo\vs iu(ue llian one point of the compass from the east,
eiilicrli) the nortlnvard or southward,
Tin; Perennial or Trade Wind, on the American side of tlie Atlantic, extends, at
tunes, to .'>0 dciirees of laii'ude, which is ai)out 1 decrees larl|jer to the northward than
ON tlie .\fricaiJ side. jjikewise on tlii' south ol the e(|uator, the Perennial Wind,
winch is here iVom tile soutli-east, extends 3 or 4 dei;rees farther towar'l- •'.!" I'oast of
Hiazil than (ui the o|)posite side of the ocean. The t'enffid cause of this winil is tlie
iiiKiimi of tiu" earth, in its diuin.d rotation, connected with its orbital movements.
IlllAT iiicriMscs evaporatiim, and renders the atmosphere ca|)able of supportina; a
urcaler (pianlity ol moisture than it \voiil(l lii; in a ecxder slate : — were the atmosphere of
one roiituiiied warmth, and its motion unitorni, there would be no rain ; lor it would not
imbibe more moisture in exhalation than it eonlil siipp(ul. Heat often produces diver-
sitv ill winds and weather, lor near the land, w In n the sun has preat inlluence, it occasions
land and sea-breezes near the shore ; and, in particiil.ir situations, heavy gusts and sijualls
iil'wind *
Small islands, lying at a great distance Irom the main land, ojjcrate very little upon tho
Trade Wind. If elev.ited, these ishuids are more subject to rain than if low : thi.s may
be occasion' d, princi|)ally, by tlie ascent given to the wind, or atmospliere, in rising over
the tops ol the liills ; when, being cooled, it condenses into small dn/,/.ly rain. 'J'his is
an iliect peculiar to all motiiitains, even in the miildle of continents, when tlii' atmosphere
is siiliieienlly chaigi'(| with mnistiire. l'"or the sun's rays, by heating the atmosphere,
according to its density, ren<leis it much warmer at the bottom than at tlie top of liills.
Upon a mountain sloping from th.' .sea towards the top, and about 700 yards in li"iglif, a
pleas, uit biee/.e has bei'ii observed in shore, and fine clear weather ; the air in ascending,
(being condensed by told,) at about half way up, had the ■ippearancf! of fog, or thin light
dying clouds; but at the top was a misiiiig rain; and this may freiiueniiy be seen in
any iiKuintainous country. f
The clouds, in the higher regions of tho air, are frequently seen to move in a direeliou
(onfrary to the wind behiw. The no'tli-eas» Trade Wind has frecjiiently asoiitli-westerly
wind above it ; and a south east « ind often prevails beneath one whose direction is north-
west. It is found th.it, just without the limits of the Trade Wind, the wind generally
blows from the opposite cpiarter. The counter-current of air, above, is often seen in a
tVcsli Trade Wind.
There arc .several heights of clouds tm the coast of North America ; the highest and
those which appear of the linest texture, (if I may be allowed liie expression) ll,p;it highest
in the almos|)here. Cluudsdt' this (lescri|)tion always come from the westward; just
before the appearance of an easterly storm, they gather in the .S. W. and S, S. W., and if
a glim (as the sailors call it) in the N. K. and .\. N. K. their appearance in the sky indi-
e.ites a N. E. storm of snow or ram. All great ?torms which are met with above the hit.
ol .'!()', whether snow or rain, bei>iii to the westward and advance gradiiallv to the east-
ward, along the coast of North .\merica, in ci nformity with ihegeneial atmospheric cur-
rent (if the region. When a .*^. W. wind, in the upper regions of the atmosphere, is at-
tended with a .\. E.oroi)posite wind below, the latter is commonly accompanied with low
fly inir clouds which (hi vebelore the wind, while the higher clouds go in a contrary direction.
Ship .M.isters and Pilots, on leaving tin- coast, outward lio'ind, may notice that so long
as tlie.se higher clouds do not gather and thicken in the W. or S. W. so long a heavy or
*Thecuiisc8ofTornndocs, Hurricanes, and .Squalls, have been thus assigned by Dr.IInrc, ofPhila.
deipliia ;--TIr. nir. bciiiir a pcrf(-(;lly elastic (luid, its deii.sity is dependant on pressure, n.s well as on
lieiu, am It ihjcs not follow that air, winch niny hv heated in con.scpicncc of its proximitv to tho
earili, will jrivp place u> older nir from aiiove. The prcs.-iue of the ntiii(i,«pl,ere varyinif wi,h the
eievatKm.oiiesintnin ol air may be ns much rarer l.v ilie diiniiiiiiioii of pres.mir,. coMs.vnient to its
ultitud.), !iH denser by the cid c.)nse.|iienl to its reiiioi.iicss Iroin the earth, and another niav be as
niucii (tenser l.y the iiieie,-,,.e,| pic...siire nrLoin- iVoiii its proAiimiy to the earth, ns rnicr by beinff
vNarmer llence, when iiii.Mpn.lly heated, dilleienl strata of the atmosphere do not always disturb
eacii otiier. "^ et, alter a lime, the raielieali m in the lower Miatuin. bv greater heat, may so far
exceed t|.:it in the upper slinuim, at-, inbint on an inferior de^r,ee of pressure, that this stratum may
l";''I"m.lera'e and l.e^riii to deseend. Whenever such a movement coininenees, it must proceed
«itii inereasin-yeloeity ; fur the pressure on the up|.crHtrntum, and. of course, its deiisiivand «eit.dil.
icreases as n (alls ; wlinst, on the contrary, the (l.>nsiiv ..ml wei-lii of tlie lower must les.sen it as
It r.ses, ami |i,.iue the cliauKe is, at times, so much aece!eiaied as to ocea.'-ion the furious and .siid
uMilyvarymtr currents ot air which attend tornadoes, hurricanes, and t^'inalU.—SUUmau's Juur,
'"' ■^''- '- t Oriental Nuvigntor, or East India Directory.
8G
.
682
nHJNT'S AMERICAN COAfeT PTLOT.
long storm of snow or rain will not orcnr. Any rain or foul weather, tliat prnrpHsfr,,
wiiulH, wl)ich rise ir'jm t))*- eastward. ,i,(i drive ht'for"' tlie wind to the westward.
vind.
Willi
out a fall ol'llie b iro>' "tir, is not a'tended with violi
Thr, .space Ironi iaiiliido y./'^ to 2ri^ or •J'J'' In-tweti >>..? '^'i\:\r,],]t and Trade M'ind ,
reinarkabhi for a vo-'tiniial iha*^ ^e of winiis, withsud '; ' !i"! Mid rainis, rain. tlnitM.
and hghiniiig. This spat h.^ ijucri c^'iied liic !!•.•' L.ititudes, because it lias oHeii i,,,^
found necessary here ic tlirfw ovr r'l ard the horses wliich were to be transported im),.
W. Indies, tec. To thi- iioriHw^'-d »'\ iliese latitudes, upon the American coa.'^f, and ii;iii(
than one third over the Aii;<nM< . westerly winds prevail nearly nine months in iliivt;.;
In the latitiuit aLove the ri.ulo Winds, the wind fnim the W. S. westward bcin,,,,.
plete with moisture, from the j^real exhalation between the tro[)ics, as it approiiclHsiL-
cold and hisjlier latitudes, becomes condensed info shuwers of hail, rain, or snow.
There is often an interval of calm between tlm Tiade W'mds and the opposite windiij
high latitmies. Tliis is not, however, always the case ; for, if tlie Trade \Vind iniMi„f.
der.s be much to the eastward, it fre(in 'titly chai)i;es irradually round without an iiiii>it]|
of calm. 'IMiere is ticiu-rally also a calm in a certain space between the two |irn;ii!r-
winds blowing in op|)osite directions, as between the 'J'radc Wind ami the wcstrrlv u-i
on the African coast. In the limit.- of the Trade Wind, a dead calm is generally iIk -..
lude to a storm, and it t)Ught always to be consiilercd as a prognostic thert-ot, ilioii:..
storm often appears without this warning.
When the sun is at its greatest declination, north of the equator, the S. E. wind, p,.
ticularly between Brazil and Africa, varying towards the course of the sun. ciinii;i.i
quarter or half a point more to the sonthward, and the N. K. Trade Wind veers iinr ;,
the eastward. The contrary happens nlicii the sun is near the southern troiiic ilcr^lr.
the S. E. wind, south of the line, gets more to the east, and the N. K. wind, on ihi \'.
lantic, veers more to the north.
On the African side of the S. Atlantic, the winds are nearest to the south, and h\i\[,
American side nearest to the east. In tliese seas, Doci. Halley observed, that wiifnih-
wind was eastward, the weather was gloomy, dark, and rainy, with hard gales of n inn;
but, when the wind veered to the southward, the weather generally becomes serene, niia
gentle breezes, next to a caii.i.
The Equatorial LiMir^i of the N. E. Perennial or Trade Wind between tlifmrriii-
ans of 18 and 26 degrees vf<;, have been found, upon the comjiarison (d' iiiirh .Jiii
journals, English and French, to vary consiilerable even in the same months (jI the vp,ir.
We liave shown, by the annexed tabl(>, where tin' N. K. Trade, according totlit|iii).
bable mean, may be e.s[,ected to cease in the dillerenl inontlis: and it will be foiiwi lo
answer the purpose with sufficient precision.
Inthis table the coltunns of Extremes show the uncertain termination of the trndewinii-,
as experienced in dittereo, ships. The annexed columns ,'diow the Probable niriiii: an;
the last column exhibits) lie mean brea<llh of the interval between the N.K. and S.F..hii;iI;.
Thus the table shows, ihat in the month of January, the i\. E. Trade has hcpii found
Bometimes to cease in the parallel of 10°, and sometimes in that of" 3° N'. Thatdie
probable mean of its limit is about .'>'' N. — That the S. E. 'J'rade at the same time, Ira
^een found to cease sometimes at only half a degree north of the line, and sonipriiiit-^-.:
; degrees. That the proi)abl^ mean ol" its limit is, therefore, two degrees and a (|iiniif:
.ind that the interval between the assumed mcai;s of the N. E. and S. E. Trade Wiira
'u equal to 2| degrees : and so of the rest.
Table shomng the Equivortial Limits of the N. E. and S. E. Trade Winds, Ictwm
the Meridians o/'IH and 'JCi Drurrrs Il"r,s7.
ii
N. E. TRADE WIND.
CEASES.
General
Extremes.
3° to 10° N.
2 to 10 ~
2 to 8 —
2ito ') —
4" to 10 --
6' to 1,3 —
In January at
February.
March . . ,
April ....
May
June .
July 8,jtol4
August . . .11 to 15
Septemner 9 to 14
October... 7itol4
November. ^ foil
December. J to 7
Probable
Mean.
3° N.
4 —
8|-;
11 ■—
13 -I
HI- j
10 — '
8 - i
51- I
S. E. TUADE WIND.
(ieneral
Extremes.
0;',° to 4^ N.
to 3 —
to 2', —
T _
0.^
o"
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
to
to 4"
to 5
to 6
to 5
to 5
to 5
to 5
to 4,"
I IMKIiVAl,
I BETWKEN.
Probable ,. „ ,,.
Mean. Mean Breadtl
ol
~li
3
N.
2} degrees.
— 5^
3i
.'5
— 7
1
3 —
'A
Hi
7
-If
2!
1^
111 the spare
Ih'i'ii loiiiiii, llii
(111- -iuii has gie
III!' ciialtled, at
Hbuii tliiv do,
('jvpcneiiccil in
llKirc i,;eiiei-al!y
ar-. litiqii-nlly s
taken, as many
A\'liiil>viiids b.n
On tl»e easier
eral easterly or
direction and to
is rcplace.l by i
prevails from ti
U.t(d)er t«t .Ma\
To ilic smiil
liappcns that, ;
shilis to the op
one vessel h;i
distant, has, at
with the wind i
ol' tiii'se gales.
In the year 1
ships of war, ei
togi'tiier w'itii a
to witb a hurrif
ctpially heavy, ;
The winds w
the eastward of
bc'iuc'Mi thi'iii :
l{EK.Mri)A
<|iicnt ; liiit liie
llikhivt, in his
tliiiniler, lightn'
llie English at i
seeing tlie ship
land, wiii(;h, ac(
of tin- Herinodt
and inhabited w
thunder, storni'
is si> woiidriius
lia/.ard of ship\>
mate of these
purity of its air
" The gcner;
on the coasts ol
nominaliMi diur
and whi( li strik
llie locality and
interior, always
forenoon, and i
luminary augni
altitude decren
maximum of it
has perceptilily
the rlsiii',' of tin
hiiui-hree/.esce
" Tiie annua
of the sun, whi
dry seasons. '
loud ihiinder
east, bi,' iiiterr
the atmo-,pher
" When the
then th? trade
BT.UNT S AMCRICAN COAST PILOT.
683
lat prorprrlsfi „
Trade M'iml,,,
la, r;iin, ilnin ..
I' it }i;i.s often I,,;,
ransportid („ ,).
II coiisf. iindii,,,.
iitlis ill i|ii. ,,
I'slwiiiil brill;;,,.
it ii|)|ir(iiicli(.,s,|,
1, or Midw.
(ini(isiic«iii,ii|j
:' \\'ill(l ill ils!„f.
itlioiit ;ni iiiiriji
'' two prciaiLi'
till' wcstrrlv w.'l
Z(Mi('i-;ill_v ili(.r,,.
lllClCof, ihoil;,!
.S. K. wiml,!:
le sun, clianii.
iiid veers n , ,
II (r(i|iic : !ir"'.
wind, on thf y.
loiith, nnd oiif,
I'd, that wlifn"
i;nles of m;
jmesscroiie, nr,
twpen tliPMiprhi.
on of iii,!r(v ^.
(iiillis ol'ilifvfar.
rdiiii; to tlic'ino-
will be fimuil ui
)f tlio fr;i(!(M\ii!(.
il);tl)le iniMii: in,,
. .iiul S.K.uii;4
le luis licpii found
3° i\. Tim lb
le same liriie, lii!
iind soniPtiiiifsj;
'OS iiiid a (|iiarift.
E. Trade Winii
Wintis, hctwm
l>TKIi\.U
KF.TWKK.S.
Mean Breadil
2\ degrees.
4
H
7
■J!
', tlip : .^urse of the nen-
■ ■■ 8(»iTie ido iitications in
itr-v/.p. . .ilms at nij<hi anu
•I. IV, Uiiiess ;•< strong wind
iif.i".^. ex[»erieuced from
]ii the r^pnre of variatdi; winds between the trades, exhibited in the hist column, it has
liccii loiiml, liiitf soutlaMJy winds |irev'.iil more than ;iii}- other; more particjlrfrly ulien
tin- sun lias j;ieal northern deelination. lldiiieuard brtund East Iiiilia siii|)S art- tl ore-
lorc eiialtlcd, at ill's season, to crost; iIa; space more (quickly *han those out warti bound ;
wiiuii tiny do, in some dcaree, . ; ail other liiiies. ^'et calms ; id vaiihh winds are
expeneiieed \n e.ery inoiiih in th'- year, >vithiii Miis sj>a';e '• it the roiiofr, which are
mori! njeneraily i'l l\<c vii inity of !he N. K. trade, scdtlo-n < <(rtit(Uc Innr. These calms
a'' lieijii.--nt)y siieeeeded by siiddcr s(j;j;iMs, against w!.u:li e\ -rv pf-'MUtiori -h.uld be
i;il,eii, as many ships have lost their topmasts, and have been oiLe''wii,c dari'ui"**! by them.
Wliiilwiiids have sometimes aceiimpaiji d these s(iualls.
On the eastern eii.tst ot North Aiiu'ica, and amoii^ its is'an
era! easterly or trade wind is uninterrupted, ihonijh siibjei:'
direction ami force. At a short dislanee frcM the land the s.
is replaeed by the lami-bree/e. This variation happens eVL._
)jrevails fiuiii the norihward or souilnvard ; the /irst of tin's
O.tiilier to May, and the seeond in .Inly, Aiiynst, and Septonii/er.
To the southward of Newfouiidlaiiil. shifts otwind are very eoiiimon, and it frequently
liappetis that, alter lilo\viii<T a <;ale upon one point of tlu; compass, the wind suddenly
shilis to the oj)|)osile point, and blows e(|iially stron<^. It has been known that, while
one vessel has been lyinjn to. in a heavy (,'ale of wind, another, not more than ."]() leaji^ues
disiant, has, at the very same time, been in anoiher fjale e(|ually heavy, and lying to,
with the wind in (piile an opposite direction. This fact shows the whirlwind character
of these cales. the opjiosite winds bein<;on opposite sides of the circuit of the gale.
In the year 17HJ, at the time the Ville de Paris. Centaur. Raiiiillies, and severalother
ships of war. eiili»'r foundered, or were rendered unserviceable, on or near the Banks,
toiji'ther with a whole lleet of West Indiamen, exci 'iiig five or six, they were all lying
to with a hurricane from E. 8. E. the wind sliifted in an instant to N. W. and blew
equally heavy, and every -hip lying to, under a square course, foundered.
The winds within the (iiilf are not so liable to sudden shifts as on the outside, or to
the eastwiird of, Hreton Island. 'I'he weather to the southward of Magdalen Islands,
beiwe/'ii them and I'rince lOdward Island, is generally much clearer than on the north.
J{KR,Mri)A.S' I.SLK.S. — Near these islands, hurricanes and tem|)C8ts are very fre-
quent ; but the prevailing winds, with fine weather, are from between the south and west.
II tkluyt, in his voyages, 1.3').^, calls the sea about the I'>eniiudas a " hellish place for
tliniiiler, lightning', and storms:" and another writer, in 1()I5, describing the arrival of
the English at these islands in IbO'K lias said, '■ t^ir (ieorge Souiers, sitting at the sterna,
seeing the ship desperate of relief, lookim; every minute when it would sinke, he espied
laud, which, according to his and ('apt. Newport's opinion, sliiu'd be that dreadful coast
of the IJermoiles, which islands were, of all muions, said and ipposed to be inchanted,
and inhabited with wii<'hes and devils; which grew by reason of accustomed monstrous
thunder, storms, and tempests, neere unto those i*'aiids ; also for that the whole coast
is so wondrous dangerous of rocks that lew can a,)iToac!; t'..r m but with unspeakable
ha/.ard of shipwreck." We now laugh at this: ltv> ing tha the mild and regular cli-
mate of these islands is prefer.ible even to that oi ' acieir. and to be piv .erred for ;Le
purity of its air, t<tL;etlier with the abundance an > _i .dity dliuils and vegetables.
" The general easterly wind, of the tropical re;...>ns, is lelt on the coast of tluynna Jind
on the (;oastsof the Caribbean and iMcNJean fteas, b it with variations which ii.iy be de-
nominated diurnal and annual. The diurnal perion is th t which the sea-breeze causes,
and whii h strikes the coast usually at an angle of two p'ov! -i, less or more, according to
the locality and other circm istances; and then r! • laud v.ind, whicli, coming froin the
interior, ahvavs blov»s oli' shore. The sea-bree/.e comes on at about nine or ten in tlie
forenoon, and continues while the sun is abo^ the hori/.on, increasing its force as that
luminary augments its altitude, and diminishing, in a similar proportion, as the sun's
altitude decreases. Thus, when the sun is on the m-ridian, the sea-ttreuze is at the
maximum of its strength; and at the time that .lie ^uii reaches the hori/.on, this breeze
has perceptil)ly ceased. The land-bree/e commences before inidnight, and continues until
the rising o| the sun ; sometimes longer. A space (d some hours intervenes between the
laiid-iiree/.es ceasing and the sea-breezes coming on, during which there is a jierfect cahn.
" The annual jjeriod of the trade wind hero is produced by the proxiinifv or distance
of the sun, which occasions the only two seasons known in the tropic ; the rainy and the
dry seasons. 'J'he first is when the sun is in 'he tro|)ic of Clancer, ami heavy rai-T? with
loud ihiinder ate prevalent. In this season the wind is generally to the southward of
east, bi>< interrupted by trequent calms, yet it occasionally blows with force a:id obscures
the atmosphere.
"When the sun remove- to she trouic of Capricorn, the dry season com), ence.,, and
then thc! trade wind, which is steady at S. E. is cool aiid agreeable. At this season., >i.
i
684
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
and N. W. winds nro somctiiiips foTinrl lilowing with much force, and, indeed, in sr-,,
dcyn'r, tliov n-niiliily nilerniiK! willi thf t;«Mi(;ral wind, as they are more tVcqueni iii.\,.
venilx'r and Ucccnilin-, (iian in Fil)riiarv and .Marcii.
"In th(! chaniit! dl' llie seasons there is a remarkable dill'erenre; for, in Ajirilvj
May, no eiian:;e is experienced in tlie atinospliere, and tiie weatlier is, in ^fiierai, !,(„,.
tit'nily fine; hnt in August, September, and October, tliere are nsnally cahnH, or virv
h'^lit winds: and ihoaihiil hurricanes, in these montlis, sometimes renthr the inm .
tion perib)iis. I''r()ni tiiese perils, however, areexempted the ishiiid Trinidad, ilic (d,,,',
)f (,'oloMibia, (late 'I'erra Kirma,) the (itiifs or Hays of Dfirien 4i\(\ Honduras, and i|,,
Ui^lit of Vera i'ruv., to which the hurricanes do not reacli
in ti
le space o| sc;
tween llie (rreat Antilia.s and the coast of Colombia, tlie t'cncral N. K. or Trade Wn,.
rejjularly prev;iils; but. near the shore, tint following |)eculiarilies are found :
" At the < ireater Antillas, the sea-bice/e consiinlly pretiiils by day, and llie lap;,
brec/i' liy ni^lit. These larid-breezes are the frcsiiol uhii h are known, and assist \»,.
Kfds much in netlini; lo the eastward or remoimiinf; to windwiird, which, wiihout i\;%
would be almost impossible. At the Lesser Antillas,
Lin;ia, icv. there are no land bree/es.
as
Do
mimca.
iMart
miinie,
iuiil ;
" (Jn the Coasts of (iuyana there are no land-breezes, nor more wind than is ti;
rally experienced betwi'cn the Iropics. In .lnn!i;iry, f'cbrnary, and .Marc li, liic «i|
here bb»w from N. to K. N. \'.. and thi" weather is cle;ir. In April, May, and .linic;
winds are from K. lo 8. K. hi July, Anmist, and .September, there are calms, wiilit,
and, inOclolier, November, and December, there aren
nadoes Irom
rom S. ami S. W
tiniial rains, while the sky is, in mneial, obscnred by clonds. In the dry season, \il!
is from .lamiary to .Inne, tin; heat is very great ; and, in the wet season, rains and tin
lers are constant and vio
lent.
♦'On the Coasts of Cnmaiia and Cnraccas, to Cape la Vela, the breeze folldwstli
regular course; but fiom that cape to Cape San 15las the g( iieral wind alters iisiliiM
tion; for it blows from N. K. or N. N. K., exceptiiii; in the months of Mart ii. .\|'r:l
iVIay, and .Inne, when it conies to K. N. K. and is then so uiiconimonly sironi;!>',
render it necessary for vessels lo lie lo. These gales, which are well known to in;ini:n-
extend from ahotii mid-channel lo within two or three leagues of the { oast, wIkmpi
become weak, especially at niyht. On thi« coast, about the (iiilf of Nicaiiii;n;i,
IH'
westerly win
mi
(Is. which the jiilois of that cotiniry c.dl N'endevales, (rainy winds
nitlis from .Inly to December ; but these winds never pass the parallel of li; .V.
1) ill.;
IfMf.ll
! Hi]
;mmI .Vil-
li's aiiil
do they blow constantly, but alleinaie with ih- . la-bvee/e,
"Upon the Mosquito .'^hore, Honduras, ,ind Eastern Coast of Yucatan, llie
winds or breezes prevail in February, March, April, and May ; but. during the lii:
of these months, they are occasionally inlerrupted by norilis. In .Inne. .Inlv.
gust, the winils here are from the eastward and westward of siniih, with toinadi
calms. In Sejiteniber, October, November, December, and .laiinarv. they are li
northward or southward of west, with freijuent gales from W. S. W., W., N. W. aiil
north.
"On the Northern and Western Coast of Yucatan, between Cape Cafoche ,ind Pnini
Piedras, or Descondida and thence lo Campcche, there is no oiher than the N. K. or
general wind, inter'aipted by hard norths in the season of them; and about lliet'iidol'
April, tornadoes commence from N. E. to S. E. "^I'hese tornadoes generally liiiin in
the afternoon, continue about an hour; and, by nightfall, the serenity ol'llir aiiii(is|i|iitp
is re-estaldished. The season of the toinadoes < ontinues until ."^cplemlier. mid itr.iH
the time there are sea-breezes upon the coast, which blow Irom N. N. AV. to N. K. It
has been remarked that, as the sea-breeze is the mure fresh, the more (ierce is the inr-
nado, especially from .Inne to September. The sea-breezes come on at about 11 (d'liif
day : anri at nii;ht the wind gets round to East, E. S. E. or S. E., so that it may be m
some degree considered as a land-liiei'ze.
"On the Coast of the Mexican Sea, from Vera Cruz to Tampico. the breeze finnil
S. E. and E. prevails in April, May, .lune. and July; and, at nis:lit. the iand-biTt-/
conies off from 8. to S. AV.: but, if the land breeze is from the N. W. wiili raiii.i!-
wind, on tlie day following, will be from Xorlli. \. N. E. or i\. E., ])arliciilnrly in .\:
gi'.si and Sept'-mlter; these winds are deniiminated. in tlii; connlry, ' \'ient(is de (
\^Midevales, (head-winds or rainy winds;) they are not strong, nor do iliey r;
llsC I
sea; with tli'Mii, therffore, a vess(d may take an anchoraiie as well a
s wi
til Ih
e t'HP'
bree/je ; but they imp"de ijeliing out, for wlii( h the land breeze is retjiiired. Tin' \
tos de Calieza, or lii'id wiiuN, rea( h to aiiout M or 'M leagues Irom tiic coast. ,»l wii
distance are found tlmse \t E. and E. S. E
♦Ilurricanea have isometinios occurred in these regionp. — W. C. R.
" From tlie m
making Vera Cr
the uiislrnction
from the norths,
for it »vili be imp
here, has been \
lias liceii eiptaiii
'•Although ill
wiiiit than the g
March, the nor
year into two se;
tlie breezes are
nortiis bliiw, is I'l
.sep'aratelv.
"The (ii-il of
moinh and the li
times it happens
ill avv rains anil
Ktrenuth, and co
these months, at
altain their iitini
wards, liiKMuh ll
norllis are obscii
general, not nior
so l'ri'i|neiit. nor
•Jl hours, and li;
we li;ive said, the
blows with great
"There are va
nr<', the wind ste
lioii-ics and strei;
and Villa-Rica, >
the iiicreasi! of li
the southward : I
time of the nort
range, than t^ight
lower than 'i'*,'^
not begin lo bio
north comes on :
to N. I-:.; the se
ings trust not to
'r\m wind szeii
same strength wl
meiices in the e\
happens that, afti
the norihward ai
west, the nortli v
its regular hour:
at the turn of tli
on the day bel'ori
"The Norths
wliich is more i
sky reniaii'ed co'
northward and w
tiler sueceedinj;
it will last to, in I
N. E. m N.. the
•• F.'iamples ar
w hicli tini'\s the\
ui'.i(lef,ile aic cal
" The wet seii
breezes, at the i
plained, are Iron
the sky sonietiiii
contitiue all nigl
every niuht, exc
the rains have be
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
085
ll llllltl is i^i .
iirch, tlip wii .
, illlll .lllMC, -
•;iliiis. vsitlM...
tlicrc iirr (^
r' St'ilSOIl, \,;ii;
;iiiis and i)ii,j.
?/.p (oIlimMlie
allcis iisdiii •
Marcli, Ajrl.
kvii to niiiiiih-.
ast, uliciT i!,n
Nicarai'ii;!, ;,;?
uiiids.) iiiilie
of ia^\'.,ijof
in. lliP ;n,ir;il
ly; I lie lii>t i«o
niv, and An-
toriiaddcs aiii]
art' I'ldin i!;i'
f., iN. W. aiil
clip and Pnini
1 the N. K.or
ont I lie end if
■rallv Inrin ;:-
ir aliiiii>|i!Mii
iior. ami ai ;i i
. to N. K. It
rce is the Uir-
hont 11 (it'llii
t it niav be id
ITC/p rir>ni li.
laiid-liriH/-
Willi rain, li
iilaiiy in A:-
los dp C'alii,'
cv raise ll'
iii(< i.'pn'
Tlio \,i ■
Dast, Hi wliidi
"Frora the middle of SeptPinher until the iiionth of March, caution is nrcrssary in
making Vera Cm/., for the nortliH arp then vory heavy. The narrowness of this harlior,
llic oKstrucfioii formed hy llie shoals at it.s entrance, and the slender shelter it affords
(roiii ilip norths, render an alieinpt to mai»e it (liirinii one of them, exiretnely danf;erons,
lor it mil l»e iinposslljle to tak(^ tlit! aiicliora!:e. 'i'lie following descriplioii of the winds
licre. has bi-en written hy Don Bernardo de Urta, a ea|)tain in the .S|)anish navy, wlio
has l)pen captain of the I'ort, and who surveyed it.
'•Airlioimh in the (Iiilf of Mexico we cannot say that there is any other constant
leral lirce/.e of this re;;ioii, iirilwithslatidiinj lliat, from Septeniher to
wind lliaii the
iMaicli. the iiorlh winds iiiierrupt the jiPiifial course, and, in some decree, diviile the
>
ear into two seasons, w
ci and drv. or of the ilree/.es and Norths: the (irst, in wiiicli
the l)ree/es are settled, is from Manli to September; and the second, in wiiich tho'
nortlis l)lii\v, is from Se|)tciiil)cr to Ma cii. For greater clearness wc shall explain each;
separatelv.
'•'I'lie (ii-t id' the niirili« is res:iilarlv (Vli in the month of Septemlier; hut, in thii-
ii)on:li and the I'ollowiii'.
on
e, t>t.ii>; I, the iiorliis do not blow with iiiiich I'orce
isome
timpN ll happens that ihey do not appear, hut, in that case, the hreeze is interrni)ted by
'll ivv lains and tornadoes. In November the norths are cstablisheil, blow with much
■ireiijiii, and (•(iiiiinue a len<;lli of lime diiriii;: Deeeiiiber, .lanuary, and February. In
iliese months, after they be'^in. they increase last: and in four hours or a little niorH,
atinii their iitinost strength, with which tliey continue blowinjj; for IH hours; but after-
waiils, ilioush they tlo not cease for somed:iys, they are moderate. In tliesi; months the
iiorilis are obscuri! and north-westerly, and they come nnso frc((m'nlly, that there is, in
i;ei,(r,il, not more than \ or b days between tliem. In March and Ajiril they are neiilier
SI) lVei|iieiit. nor last so loii^, and are clearer: but yet tliey art^ umre fierce for the finst
•-'I lioins, and liave less north-westiny;. In the interval belVue Novendier, in which, as
we have said, the norths arc established, tiie w(!ather is beautiful, and tiu' general breeze-
blows witli great rey;nlarity I)y day ; the land breeze as regular by night.
"There are various signs by which the coming on of a n(}rth may be foreseen; su ih
are. the wind sUv.idy at sontli; tin- nmislure of the walls, and of tlic pavements of the
hollies and streets; seeing clearly the Peak of Orizaba and the Mountains of Perote
and Villa-Rica, with the cloiul on those of St. Martin, having folds like a white sheet;
tlie increase of heat and of dew; and a thick fog or a low sciul, flying with Telocity to
tlie Sdiiiliward : but the most c( rtain of all is tiie barom(>ter; for this instrument, in the
time ol the norths at \'eia ("ruz, does not vary nore, betw >en its highest and lowest
raii;;e, than ei;^hl tenths; that is to say, it does not rise higher than .'iUJ'„ inches, nor fall'
hiwerthan i'),'^ inches. The descent of the mercury predicts the norths; but they do
not begin to blow the moment it sinks, which it always does ii short time belore the
iiortli comes on : at these times liuhtnings aj)p(>ar on tiie horizon, espeeially from N.W.
to N. K. ; the sea sparkles, cobwebs are seen on the ringing, if by day : with such wara-
mgs trust not to the weather, for a north will inlailiiily come on.
This wind <;en(Maily inoderalcs at the settiiii; of the sun ; that is, it does not retain the-
same strength whieli it had from') in the morning to three in the afternoon, unless it com
ineiiees in the evening or at night, for then it may increase otherwise. Sometimes it
happens that, after dark, or a little l)ef(H-e midnight, it is found to be the land-wind, from
the iiorihward and westward; in which case, should it get round to the southward of
west, the north will be at an end, and the general breeze will, to a certaintv, come on at
its regular hour: but if that does not happen at the rising of the sun, or afterwards, and
at the turn of the tide, it will return to blow from tin north, with the same violence a»
on the day before, and then it is ealled a North de Miu-ea or Tide-North.
"The Norths also, soiiienni*"s, conclude by taking to the northward and eastward,
which is more certain; for, ii the wind in the evening gets to N. F,., although the
sky reiiiaii'cd covered the «lay followiiat. but by night the land breeze has been from the
northward and westward, the gular breeare will surely ensue in the evening, good wea-
ther sueceedinu and continuing lor 4 or'i .lays: the latter period being the longest that
it win last to. in the season of the norths; but, if the wind retrograde from N. F. to N.
N. K. <»r N., the weather will be still unsettled.
•■ F.\ainplesare not wanting of norths li.ippening in May. .Tune. Tnlv, and August, at
which tim'\s they are most furious, and are called Nortesdc'l Mueso Colorado ; tlie more
modevate aic called Chocolateros, but these are rather uncommon.
"The wer seascm. or the season of the breezes, is from March to September: the
breP7,ps. at the end of .Mar(!h, and throujih the whole month of April, as already ex-
piamed. are trom time to time, imerriipted by norths, and are from E.S. E. very fresh;
the sky sometimes clear, at other tmies obscure. At times these touch from S. E. and
eontitiiii' all night, without giving placv lo the land-bree/e, which prevails, in general,
every ni-ht. excepting when the norlli wind is on. The land-breeze is freshest wheu
ihe rains have begun.
GSG
DLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
" .\ftrr tlif> sun piissi-s the zpiiilh nl' Vera ('riiz. ami until he retinns to it, thai ,^
from llic Killi ul' ^l:iy tn llic 'JTlii ol" July, tlic hrcc/rs, are of tiie ii!<lit("<t <l»«irijiiM,.'
iiliiiiist Collins, wiili iMiirii mist or iia/.c, aii<l .sli;!lit tnriiaiioi^M. Alter llial time, iIu'imj.
sant breezes Irom iN. \\'. to N. K. sometimes ri'iiiain lixed.
" From till! 'jnli of .Inly to tlio midillc of ( )(;tot)cr, wlien the iiorllis i)eeoiric ,.vi,,v
lislieii, tlie tornadoes are lierce, wiili Iie;)vy rains, lliiiMilcr, and li>;litnint;: tliusc ^1,; |
brin': llic lieavi(!st winds are from tiie e;i-<i, lint tin'Y are aisct of the sliortest diiiiitidn,
"III llic season (d' IJree/.es, the lotid tariaiion of tlie liaromcler is four-leiniis; |j^
greatest ascent of the mereiiiy is to ItO inelies iliiriy-five oiie-hiiridre(hlis, and itsjirciniv
descent to 'J'.) inches ninety-six one-hiimhcdtlis. 'J'lie ihermometi'r in .Inly rises to «;
and does not fall to )*:i\" : in Deccmiier it rises to HO',", bm never I'ldls below dd .,_
'i'liis, it must be understood, u as acertained in the siiade, the instrument being pinc^,]
in one of the cixdest and best ventilated halls in the castle.
" In the months ol' Aumist, and .^('iitember. rarely a year passes without hiirririrni
near Florida and the northern Anlillas; but to \'era (-'riiz. or any part of the eoant the ^
to f 'aiiipe<he, they never arise ; all that is fell Ix'ins; the heavy sea, which has iiriscii,!,
in the liii;her latitudes, llurric.ines beain blou in;: from the norlliward and easi\v;iril; m
althoiij;li they do not always ^o round the same way, yet in :;eneral they next ;^o|im,.;
southward and eastward, with thick s(|iially weather and rain."
From 'I'l, mpico to Hay of .^t. Hcriianl. the winds are ronliiinally frnm E. to S„,ii);
)ii;ht from the month of A))ril to Aiuiust ; the contrary is experienceil in the other tnoiiiiii.
This coast is exposed on account of the hardness id ^alcs fr<rii K. and F,. .*^. l",.,»|ini|
blow without intermission for tv.o or llirrc days beinre hauliiig to I he nortliward.
In latitude 20'^ 'M' N. there arc land bree/.es at night, which blow from niidnijn
to nine A. M.
From IJay St. Bernard to the Mississippi, them are land-liiTezps at daylicht, nnddn
(he day's enterin;:, the winds haul lo S. F. and F. S. F. and in the afternoon it ^fnimllv
liauls S. W. In winter the southerly winds are very tempestuous, and blow for llic spare
«1' two or three days. The mouths most to be feared to navigate tliis sea, are Aii;ii,!.
September, October, and November, in which there are hurricanes and winds on slion ,,i
lieavy that no canvass can stand them: upon the M ississi|)|)i, and all its nioiiili'., iluro
are very thick fogs very frequently, especially in February, March and Ajjril, nmj m
June and .Inly.
From the Mississippi to lat. 28° N., in the month of Ajiril to .luly, the rnVnin"
winds are gcn(!rally Irom N. lo E. and from E. to S. in the mornim;, and in the iitir.
noon they haul S. W. These S. W. winds are tempestuous in August, SrpitiiiWr.
and October, an ejioch in winch are also experienced heavy soiithers and luimcmcs,
From Novi'iuber to March the winds blow from the northward, beginning (irst Iniiii S.
E. and .S., with heavy rain, when it hauls to .S. W. and W., and blows very heavy, tillit
hauls to N. W. and N., wlien it clears the weather, and then to N. E.. and is niilil.
From lat. 2H^ N. to the southermnosi of the Florida Keys, the trade wind rt'lcmin
the morning, and at mid-day it hauls in from the sea. 'I'liis happens in sumnicr, luiiin
winter, especially from November to March, the winds blow from S. to W. and raise a
very heavy sea.
In the new channel of Bahama, the reitniing wind is the trade, interrupted inwinfr
by norths, and in summer l)y calms. Although the nortliern limits of this cliiiiiiii'l Ma
2^° 30' N., and conseqjucnlly within the limits of the trades, yet it is necessary in keep
in mind that in winter, that is, from November to April, you will meet with tlip vaiii-
bles at or before you arrive to lat. 27^, which variables are from E. to .S. and from S. lo
W.. and in summer vou iiavc calms and light airs from S. to W. and from W. to N.
ON THE EASTERN (JOAST OF BRAZIL, between the months of Seinombn
and March, the winds generally prevail from N. by E. to N. E. by E. Between March
and September the prevailing winils arc from V.. by N. to E. S. E.
The former of these is generally termed the northerly monsoon, and the latter, liif
southerly one; although there appears, in fact, to be no direct and ou|)osite ciiaiii;ei!
them on or about the equinoxes, as is generally the case w.th the win. Is so cnlletl.
These winds are simply a conlinuation of the .S. F. trade, which cliaiiies its diiv
tion as above described, and is inlluenced by the land on its approach thereto. ^\ li-
the sun is to the northward, no particular dilference is observed in the S. E. trade, I
it may be carried within sight of the coast, with scarcely any deviation: neveitlndf ■
about both equinoxes, but more especially when the sun is advancing In the nortliw !
calms and very light winds, with apparently no settled quarter, will prevail near
coast; and this may be said to be more particularly the case on that part of it l)el»i ■
the Abrolhos and Cape Frio. As the sun advances to the southward, the trade wind
will generally come round to the north-eastward, and will have its ietroi,'rade nioveiiieit
witlf the return of the sun to the equinox. At this latter season, ships, on approafli-
ing the coast, will begin to observe this northerly inclination of the S. E. trade, wh"
BI.UNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
687
fivn (Irirpcs of it, and which thoy will find grarlunlly to increase as they
IXTOIIII- iv,,,.
: lliiisc w!i, ij
St «lui;uioii.
Ul-tClllils; li,
lllli itsyi,.;,.,,,
l_v riNcs til »;
liflow (id _
it bfiiig iiiati;
1 K. to S,.,|.
ollit'f mill I',,
. S. K..(M,,L
tlnviiKJ.
tVoUl lllKiliijii
lyli.chf, nnildii
ion it (.'orniilli
w for tli('S|M(>
•a. nie Aiiju.;.
ids (II) sliiiri'M
iiiiiutlis, tlurt
I April, ami m
tlip rrijnin"
ii: till' iit'iiT.
st, SrpiemWr,
nd Imiricanrs,
2 (ii'st trdiii S.
V lipavv, ijHit
I is mild.
Mnd rciiinsin
luiimcr, hiitin
\V. and raise a
itcd in winter
s cliaiiiii'l i<iu
essarv ti> i^t'^p
itli the varit-
>i(l (Vom .S. tu
u W. t(i N.
of Sf pl'^mliw
etween Marcli
within fonr or
ini liiif III lli<" wi'stward.
Within a (Vw miles of the coast, and in the flilVnrnt roadsteads and liarhnrs, tlie wind
•'fr.prallv blows din-ctly upon it ; and, in ilir dfcp liarhors, and upon the shore, this in
•.•iHndlv snpersedfil by a land bric/.e wliich sometimes lasts a «reater part of the nijiht.
\l)iiiii liio de .laiH-iro iliis lain! bree/e somftiiiiivs t-xiends as far seaward as Kound Isl-
and, wliib-ai l'iMiiaiiil)UC() it rarely reaches the roadstead
'IMie preceiliny; riiiiarKs are tli
f liieiitciiant llrwctt. Pimcntel, and, after him.
,M. !)'.\pres
has >aid that the winds of the nonherly monsoons, between .September
iiid March, are from N. K. and K. N. K., or less northeriy than as above; and tliat
f the soiitlierlv moti-^ooii are from K. S. K. to S. S. K., or more sontherly. It
those o
niav
,■ ilierofore be adiiiilled, tiiat they tlo sometimes prevail more from the south, and
that those near the norih but seldom occur
.Mr. I^indlev, in hi>; narra
live of a vovai;e to Urazil, havinj; resided a eon.sidcrable time
on siiore
Hahia. tVc. has described the inshore wind as follows : — " From Cape St.
") iiKiiitlis in the vear, chiellv north-easterly
Ao.;iiNtine. (•-iiMitliward.) the wind blows, <) iiKiiitlis in the year, chielly northeaste
theiiiornins:. and north- we-terly ilnriti!: the eveniriiz and ni:;hl. 'I'iiis continues i;ra(lu-
allv clnnu'iii" alon;; the coast, till, at Kio de .laneiro and the Kio Plata, it becomes a
reinlar lamrbree/e from evenini; till iiiornin<;, and llirouuhoiit the day the reverse.
Dnri'i',' the three stormy months, that is, from the latter end of February to that of
.M;;v, ilie wind is j^encrally southerly, blowing very fresh and s<iually, at times, from the
SDiilli-west."
liieiiienant Ilcwett has observed, that tlie w itids o(V Cape Frio are seldom found to
the sdiithward of east; and in the nortliern monsoon they are jjenerally to the north-
w ird of N. K. Heavy and violent s(pialls are occasionally met with iti rounding the
Cape, to obvi.iic the cifects of which every precaution is re(|nired.
The same uiiicer adds, that at ilio do .laneiro, the sea brec/,e varies in its commence-
ment from ten to one o'clock in the forenoon, and ceases in the evening between the
lioiirs of seven and eleven. At the full and clian.<;c of tlie moon, vi(deni squalls from
the N. \V., named by the Potlutiucse " Terc Altos," immediately supersede tlie sea
bree/e, fisting from I'our to six hours.
Ciplain I'eter Ileywood, in the British frigate Nereus, was for three yearson the Bra-
zil station, and the '/realer jiart of that time in the River IMala. Tliis gentleman describes
the winds in pa;;e .'jTb of this work.
The late Captain .Fohii M'lJride, of the Royal Navy, kept a recular journal of the
winds ami weather at Hie Falkland Islands, from 1st of February, 17(if), to l<)ih .January,
171)7, which was piiblisiied iu 1775, by Mr. Dalrymple. The journal concludes with
the followiiiii general remarks :
" From lorejioiui; over tlie followins; journal of the winds, for the space of one year,
tliey will be louiid to prevail in tlie western (|uarter, and aeneraily blow a close reefed
topsail gale, with a cool air. In November the winds begin to be more frequent in the
N. W. quarter, generally hazy weather, and lor the most part blow about 16 or20 hours,
when it begins to rain ; the wind then regularly shifts into the westward, and so on, till
it gets to the .S. W. by .S. and S. S. W., when it blows fresh, and clears up. This S.
S. W. wind continues for about Hi hours, then dies away, when the wind shifts again to
the N. W. quarter: this continues during December, .January, and February, and
changes in tin- manner above mentioned every three or four days. As March cornea
on, you have tliese changes but selilom ; and as the winter advances, they are seldom
iu the N. W. (piarfer, out rather incline to the V]. N. E., which is generally accompa-
nied with sleet and snow. There is not the least proportion in the gaies between winter
and summer. In summer, (as I have before observed,) as the winds are in the west-
ward, they blow in such heavy sijualls offthe tojis of the mountains, that it is sometimes
an hour before a cutter can row to the shore, altliough the water is smooth, and the dis-
tance of but one cable and a half olf. In the winter, the winds are jrent up by a keen
frosty air. The »u)st lasting gales are those from S. by E. to S. by W., and are ex-
tremely cold."
Observationx on the Winds, by Captain Frederick Oiamier, R. N.
"The trade winds, in the West Indies, generally blow from N. E. to .S. E., varying
according to circumstances, which will be hereafter expressed. About Barbadoes and
the Windward Islands, that is, from Tobago to Barbuda, the wind will be found to veer
more to the northward in the early part of the year, than in the months of June, .Tuly,
and August. In the more northern islands, such as Dominica, Montstrrat, Antigua.
Nevis, (kcthe wind, in the evenings of .ianuary, February, and .March, veers round to
about north, or N. N. E., blows very fresh in squalls ; and from the extensive space of
r
•688
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
ocenn over wh'ch it travels, bpcniiiP!! cool and very n'fre8liinj». The thprmonirt(r, c,,^
All l'!ii!;lisli ll,irl)<)i-, III (Ik' abiivi* iikmkIis, :il H o'clnck, I'. M., I never .saw iiIkivc 7<i ;,,
tlii.s NiMSDii (il itic year, llii' siikiicss ot' the luil inonihs ih iiii longer ex|ieiii'iiiri|; ,,
general las^iiuile ot (lie iiioriiiii^s ami imkiiihoI .Inly and Aiik;iiNt Heen\xtoi^iiiieii ; ^n,, „,
uian wilt) \ isiied these iHlaiiils during the lirsl tliiti' iiiniiths iiUlie year, wiuilil litiiivi! „
the clian<;e ol' seventy or eighty days could make mkIi an ama/aii^ dilliiiiK c in (lie In,.
as well as in the energy, ot the inlr.iliitants nl the Wiiidwaid Islands. In the i li i:,,
seasons (Iroiii wet to dry) a gnat dillereiiii i> txpeiienLed in the winds. In April,,,
3Iny, ihc atmosplKMe is in general clear, ami line weather (irevails; lint in .\n;:ust, >. .
ti iiilier, and ()< toln i, cuIiiim ur very ligiit winds aie not iiiu oiumun. Strung liiaiii,.!,,
Uhiw in these months.
" In speaking ol hurri( aiies, they are well know ii to have lieen very rarely expemiut:
in Trinidad, 'i'he mainland ol ('olonil<ia, the (iiill id Dam n and llondiita», niiil h^.
Wii»e Vera (Jrii/,, are almost exempt trom this scourge. In the " Denotero de i.is .^i,.
tillas," however, mention is made of a hurricane having been experienced on ihi' in. ;.
.ill'.; oCllie Irtili of August, Ir'U).
" In the greater AiitilU s, such as . tiiaic., Ciilia, St. Domingo (or llaxli.) aiiil I'. ,
Kji'eo, the sea-brec/»! blows by day, a'ul t' l' land wind by night ; bul m the b sm r .\iiii .
fi\t4'[i as Martinieo, Dominica, St. Jiiicia, Antigua, cVc. land winds are very iinciniiii
an/l ccilaiiily, in all my crui/.ing in those seas, about these i.slands, I never expnm
ill'* land wind.
/''roiii the Coast of (jiimana to Piuifa Agii'ia, the common trade wiml con>t.iiiil\ ■
nt K. S. K. to K. N. K., the land wind being uncommon, but still not unknown. .\
riKir, in La (Juayra Road, in February, IHJT, a very light cool land wind, IVoiii ih ^
8. W. oc<!asionally reached the ship, liut I do ii lit its ever exi ending iiioir than r.\')
to sea. On the evening of the ■.'Olli ' )<'lober, Ibid, a heavy s(|iiall came Ironi iIm > -
W. oil' Cape la Vela, and blew lor some time with violetice. I h;ive merely niciiliiii,^
the two above facts, because in the Derrotero it is asserted that land winds .irei.ii'
known on this coast.
"'I'he Coast between Cajie la Vela and Santa M.irtha seems more aecnsimiiij i
clianges of wind than any other part of the West Indi' s. Although the rrmarkMilM.i:
celebrated Spanish navigators would had us to believe that the winds blow so licrolv
from the K. N. K. that ships are obliged to lie to; yet I have, in the iiionlh orAii:ii>i,
by keeping close in shore between I'unta Aguja anil Cape la Vela, had the wind at west
for two or three days together; and until we had passed Kio de la llacha, and I'luml
Cape la Vela, we neither had easterly winds nor westerly currents.
"In that part of the Coast of Vucatan, between (Jape Catoclu! and I'unta l'iiil!ii*, -
Deconoeida, and that coast which trends to the southward to (ampeclie, the tr;iilt «ii,;i>
have generally been at E. N. K. In the evening, tow ards Scplemlier, the wind occ;isiuiwllv
veers to the E. S. E., and this has been called a "land wind" by many authors.
"At all seasons of the year, 1 liavi; experienced land winds on the coast of ( 'ilw; ills!
is, from Cape Corrientes to St. .hii^o de (juba. If the sea biee/,e, which in ('uiiiKiswril
as Jamaica and St. Domingo (or llayti,) g(Mierally begins about nine o'clock in ll;f
morning, and freshens until noon, should in the evening about sun-set dwindle toneiirlv
a calm, you may be certain of a light air olftlie land : — a mark to judge by, and wlmh
I never knew to fail, was the clouds hanging heavily over the blue mountains of .iaiii;ut»,
or Copper Hills of Cuba.
"The winds operate very little uymn the Thermometer. From May to Octoiieriii-Li-
tnaica, at day-dawn, K-J^ will be the average; it will be f^fi° at nuon, and again, f- i!
the evening. To tind the Thermometer at 7."^ during the night, even in a place «lifit
the wind circulates freely, cooled also by the dew, is a luxury so rarely likely to uinir.
that in looking over my private .lournal for two years, 1 cannot discover one instiaiit"'
it in the above months; yet still, the land winds, to those who have been long itsmIui'
in the country, is a luxury most eagerly expected, and most wel'.'(>mely received. Il i-
80 different a kind from the sea bree/.e, that respiration becomes eas\ ; whereas, »iili!!
Thermometer at 90^ at J'orf Royal, and the sea breeze blowing nearly a gale, 1 1
found inhaling the hot wind very oppressive and very relaxing.
"It would very far exceed the limits I propose for these reinarks, to dwell iii"ii
different changes and dilferent winds in these seas, although 1 have kept a most arm'
j)rivate Journal, from which I have extracted the foregoing remarks. It is uk rely n
site to mention, in conclusion, the season of the 'norths' in the Culf of Mexico.
"Don Bernardo de Orta has given one of the best and truest accounts of these "imls
that 1 have seen: comparing this with the accounts of llumlioidt and Don Ciwi'i
Churruca, it will be seen that the norths are so well marked, that uoboiiy could iiii>i:i^
the approach of one. For instance, lying in Sacrificios, near \'era Crii/. if the |itiil;i'l
Orizaba is very clear in the morning, a light thin cloud here and there, .>iui the stite'*
of Vera Cruz, tl
|5ale of wind. I'
• • These wind-
and soini'iiineH ii
the N. K., Ilyiiii
wiml lie^'ins to vt
In tin' iimht tune
ol' the gale; and
reduce sail, and i
" Iteiweeii .lam
po, I II ive alw ly <
it will ireiierally
great advaiita:;c
wiiiii. you will b
one must percei^
CURSORY
The science n
the natural pliein
and comfort of ev
phenomena, as e<
as to the iiieiiilii'i
bilious, or of geo
ried kiio\vli'dge w
In the pioiHMliii
tion of oliservatioi
atiil on dilferent
general and curse
nomiMia which oc
The transparei
the a I III OS j)h ere, fo
ate vicinity of the
expanded and tei
or fifty miles fron
tained by means ^
inches in height,
tual (juantity is w
this limit that nc;
parently develope
siiuare miles ; an
exl-:!)its at the si
thai liy this stand
sujierlii'lal extent
These several t
the phenomena o
altiliide to our eo
thickness jf the ;
face, this is only
I common sheet ol
I view the atmosph
j tion to the actual
thousandth part <
jceive the ioapplii
bi.unt's amkiucan coast imi.ot.
(189
of Vera Cruz, tlin walls cif llio houses, \c. tlamp, — lutoitj iiiii;lit yon will liavr a hard
gait! of wind, lis dnralioii is very unciTtiiiii.
" 'I'lii'te winds, which rommciici! alioiit the riid of July, and conlinnf to T'cliniary,
iinl soinciirriiM to March, hlnw occasionally "ilh yrr.ii mhIciicc, lii';;innin.: j-cncrally at
(In- N. K., dviiii? round the compass, and ulliniaidy sciilinn ;il N. S. \V . When (he
wnid lic'^ins to vci-r n;ain towards cither the cast or the west, ihts ijalc will soon he over.
Ill llif nuhl tiinP, the highly |)hos|thorescent appearance ortiieMCii, marks the apprrtacli
ol' the !jale; and ihi' x{|nill hciiii; visihje Ion.; Iiclorc it approaclies, gives ampli> time to
reduce sad, and to have every thmj: prcparcil
" jjeiweeii .l.iniaica and .Maracaylio, .iiid in the space iielMfcii tjie latter and Si. Domiii-
pi), I li ive ahviy i oliserved, tli il slioiild ihe tr ide wind at daylight lie al K. N. K. at noon
it «ill treneraliy he ahoiit K. Iiy S. if the day is clenr. Tiie kiioulediic of this ijiven !i
prcat advania:ie in ii windw.inl heal; and hy this means, walchio;; ilic vaii^ition ol' lliP
wind, yitii will be ahle to head the currcnl lor some liuurst, — .u\ advanta^i which every
one must perceive."
imstaiill) '•', ..
iiowii. A; .
Ill, Iroiii ll: \
' I hall I'.vt'i,,,.,.
iVom till >. >
rely iiiciiMiiiif;
\iih\s ,ire nmli
accnstdiiml i
rniark> nl >iii;,
)lo\v so liiro'lv
nil ol'.AllJM,
II' \viiii|;itui'<i
la, and uiicni'd
nta Pipilrns, (ir
ijie iriiilcwiiiil'
id (iiT;!>liiii;ilh
iiihnrs.
I (ir('Mi);i:lli;i!
ill ( 'iiiia;istull
o'clock ill li'
'iiidlc tdinMili
hy, and wIki!:
ins ot'.laiiiiiU',
Oclolii'rin.l.i-
II aj^aiii, •".; '■-
a plate wlifit
kely Id ocim.
me insiaiirf'
loiii; rt'siiliir
civcd. lti>
ercas, wiihit'
ll gale, I lia-
hvcll ii|"ni:
most acciir"
< merely rt'ip
Mexico.
ol'ihoo iiii''^
i I Jon rti-i:,'
could iiii>'''"
. il'the peaki'l
iiui thcsticctil
CURSORY REMARFvS AM) Sf(;fn:.«?TlO\S ON VARIOIS
ToiMcs i\ Mi;'ri:()R()i,o(iv. .
BY AN AMATr-TJR OPSiF^R' FR.
The science of Meieortdosy is not only inleresiin:; t() 'lo philosophic ohsprver, hut
tlie natural phenomena of which it takes cocni/aiice ;ire such as daily atl'ect tlie interest
and (111111011 of every iiiiMiiheror the human lamily. I>iil io no ida-^s of persons are ihf so
phenoiiieiiii, as exhiiiited in various piiris ol tlii' world, of so iiiiiidi practical impoilanco
as lo the memhcrs of the nautical prol'cs>ion. A ccmpeleiil knowledce of ihese exhi-
iiilions, or of peouriiphical meleorolocy, is tlieiefore an important eleiiieiit of that va-
ried knowliMl<ie which is aci|uired hy the skilful iiavi<;,ilnr.
In the pi(!cediiin paL'cs of the Aiiierican Coas! I'ilrl. will he found a valwalde collec-
tion of oli-erv;ilions on ilie winds wliiih h ive heen found lo prevail in the Atianiic ( Icean,
;uid on diffcienl portions ot' the Amei-ic;in coast. \\'c ikhv proceed to exhihii a more
general and cursory view of the atmosphere and winds, and ol various atmospheric phe-
nomena which occur in these regions.
(Icnrral I'lnc of tltc. Atmosphere.
The transparent aerial fliTnl which surrounds our (rlohe, and which we denominate
I'w ahiiosplii-rc, forms a comparatively thin stiatiim or envelope, which in the immedi-
ate vicinity of the earth, is <;really compressed hy its own weight, and which in its most
evpanded and tenuous state is supposed lo extend itself lo the heii;lit of only forty-five
or fifty miles from the eartii's surt'ace. Its superincumhent pressure or weight is ascer-
tained hy means of the haroineter, and is eipial to a column of mercury about thirty
inches in hei<rhl. Hy means of this instrument we learn tliat one half its wei'^ht or ac-
tual (jiianiity is wiiliin three milc< and a half of the surface of the ocian; and iTis within
this limit that marly nil ihe visible or important phenomena of the atmosphere are ap-
parently developed The lower surface of the atmosphere is equal to about 'J()0,Ono,000
square miles; and as a compression of the whole mass to the common density which it
exi ,!)its at the sea level, wmld reduce its emire hei<iht to about five miles, it follows
thai hy this siiimlard of comparison the height or thickness of the atmosphere is to its
Bupcrlicial extent in the proportion of only 1 to 40,000,000.
These several facts are too important to be lost sigiit of in our general reasonings upon
the |)henomena of the atm isphere ; and the more so, as we are prone to give too much
iillitude. lo our conceptions on these subjects. If we even consider the proper height or
thickness jf the atmos|dicre as eipial to fifty miles, still, as compared with its entire sur-
face, this is only equal to one five hundredth of the proportion which the thickness of a
common sheet of paper, of the foolscap size, bears to its surface dimensions; and if we
view the atmosphere either as condensed to the mean of the surface pressure, or in rela-
tion to the actual limit of all its tangible phenomena, it will only he equal to one five-
I thousandth part of the proportional thickness above mentioned. We may hence per-
ceive the inapplicability of analogical reasonings that are founded on the movementa
' 87
IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)
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V.
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Photographic
Sciences
Corporation
23 WEST MAIN STREET
WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580
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690
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
which occur in a chimney, or in an inclosed apartment, as attempted to be applied in ex-
planation of the general movements of the atmosphere.
Two instruments of modern invention, the barometer and thermo7ne(er, arc tr\i]\ tn.
valuable as testing the condition of the atmosphere, and their use should be faniiliiirto
evn y navigator. By the first, as we have seen, the amount or weight of the superiiicnm-
beni atmosphere, at any place, may always be accurately known, and by the indiciUions
of the other, the temperature of the air, as well as of the ocean, may be ascertained wuh
equal precision.
Among the most striking peculiarities of the atmosphere, are its rapid and almost con-
stant movements of progression or circulation, which, with some unimportant exccp-
, tions, appear to prevail throughout the globe. These movements evidently sliow ijie
continued operation of some jjoweriul impulse, which, to the writer at least, does not ;i|i.
pear to have been satisfactorily explained. It is estimated from the average rate of sail-
ing of ships during long voyages through did'erciit seas, and from other data, thatilie
average velocity of the wind near th(! surl'ace of the ocean is ecjual to eighteen miles an
hour throughout the year, and in the common region of the clouds the velocity muit
be much greater.
Temperature of Elevation.
Elevation above the level of the sea, or the general level of a country, causes a regu-
lar variation in temperature. The first ;)00 feet usually causes a dilference of abontono
degree of Fahrenheit's thermometer. After ascending .300 feet, it is estimated tluiiilie
thermometer falls a degree in -295 feet, then at '217, "J.S'J, 2C','3, and I'JL'feet ; but 3Uii|tei
to a degree is a common rule. On these j)rinciples the limit of jjerpetual frost hashfeii
calculated. Tt is made a little more than lo,000 feet at the e()untor, and from liiniio
13,000 between the tropics, and from 9,000 to 4,000 feet between latitudes 40° and o'l'.
It has been found, however, that the above rule is subject to great variations, owiiic,
probably, to the course, temperature, and sujer-positioo of the atmospheric curfiiis
which prevail in dilferent regions at dilfercnt altitudes. Colder currents are often louml
resting upon, or interposed between, those of a higher temperature, and vice versa. On
the Himalaya Mountains, in Asia, between the latitudes of 28° and 34° north, liie re-
gion of vegetation has been found to extend several thousand feet above the .siipjioserl
line of congelation in those latitudes. It is also remarkable that the line of |ieij)eiiial
snow is found at a much greater altitude on the northern side of these mountains than
on the southern side, in a lower latitude. From this it niav be inferred that the tern-
perature in high regions, as well as in lower situations, is greatly affected by the geo-
graphical course and physical condition of the currents of atmosphere which [aevaii in
these regions.
Stralification and Elevation of the Currents of the Atmosphere.
It is obvious, from the courses of the clouds and other light bodies which sometimP!
float in the atmosphere, that the movements of the latter are mainly horizontal, or pa-
rallel to the earth's surface. Notwithstanding this, the cftnmon theory of winds sup-
poses a constant rising of the atmosphere in the equatorial regions, connected with a
flow in the higher atiuosphere towards the polar regions, and a counter (low at the sur-
face towards t)ie equator, to supply the ascending current. This ascending movement,
however, has never yet been discovered, and it is easy to perceive that if it existed in the
manner supposed, its magnitude and velocity must be altogether too great to have
eluded observation.
It is apparent, however, that different currents often prevail at diflferent altitudes, su-
perimposed one upon another, and moving at the same time in dilferent directions. These
currents are often of difl'erent temperatures and hygrometrical conditions, and are fotinil
moving with diflerent degrees of velocity. It is by the influence of these currents tlir
volcanic ashes, and other light substances, which are elevated by means of wbirlwiiiiij
to the higher regions of the atmosphere, are conveyed to great distances, and in dire-
tions which are often contrary to the prevailing wind at the surface. On the enipin
in St. Vincent, in 1812, ashes were thus deposited at Barbadoes, which is 60 or a'
miles to the windvard, and also on the decks of vessels still farther eastward, while ite
trade wind was blowing in its usual direction. On the great eruption of the volcano ol
Cosiguina, on the shores of the Pacific, in Guatemala, in .lanuary, 183i3, the volcanic
ashes fell upon the island of Jamaica, at the distance of 800 miles in a direct line Iroin
the volcano. Facts like these ought to put at rest the common theory of the trade
winds, according to which these ashes would sooner have fallen upon the northern
shores of the Gulf of Mexico, or the peninsula of Florida. On the same occasion the
volcanic ashes
that coast, ant
W., more thai
opposite from
cuneiils prevai
meiits, fur proc
The occasio'
rent and the hi
tries situated
lonij periods, b
currents from I
uresencc in thi
The atmosp
vapor, and tin
the thennome
densed in I he
an assemblage
the atmosphere
will not rise, a
fields, are alrnh
It is to circun
great variety in
ance the follow
sidered as pert;
1. Like a lo
2. A cloud i
3. A horizor
4. A system
5. I'he wavy
6. The enmi
7. A cumulu
The cirrus is
Its height is ap
Dew is the c
substance. CI
floating in the
solved. If by
their weight be
then descend ir
drops increase
ground than or
rain are therefc
the same proce
Owing to the
to the lutensit
ever, found at ;
about five mile
perature above
and the earth c
evident by the
usually dim an
unaptly be ten
Hail of smal
the occurrence
a stratum of ai
warmer than th
affords, perhap
Summer hai
of limited exte
nings, or a hea
X
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
691
! applied in ex-
:r, are truly m-
I be fmniliiir to
le superitniim.
the iiKliciUiuns
scertaiueii wiih
md almost cnn-
Iiorlaiit excfp-
emly show iho
St, does tint :i|)-
iige mte ot'sm!-
r data, tliatiliR
;hteeii tiiiksan
u veiocit) luust
causes a rejii-
ce of about i.;i;
imated that the
■t ; but 3(111 1'eei
1 iVost liiis ii-eii
id Iroiii iliiiiiii
2s 40° and o'l",
riations, o«iiic,
iheric ciirmit>
are often I'uiiinl
vice versa, Un
north, ihp re-
e the sii/iposed
ie of |iei|ieiiial
nounialnsiliHn
i that the tern-
ed by the gfo-
hich prevail in
re.
icli sometimf?
izontal, or pa-
of winds siip-
nected with a
low at the silt-
ing movement,
existed in the
great to have
altitudes, su-
ctions. These
, and i;re fniim
e currents tin:
of whlrlwiiit'!
, and in direc-
n the erupii'3
:h is 60 m'.f
:ird, while tie
the volcano ol
5, the volcanic
rect line I'roffl
f of the trade
the northern
I occasion the
volcanic ashes were also carried westward in the direction contrary to the trade wind on
that coast, and fell upon 11. M. ship Conway, in the Pacidc, in hit. 7^ N., long. 105°
\V., more than 1,200 miles distant from the volcano, in the direction which is nearly
opposite from Jamaica. These phenomena were doubtless the eti'ect of two dift'erent
curieiils prevailing at ditTorent elevations; but we shall seek in vain, in these develop-
ments, for proof of the commonly received but imaginary system of the trade winds.
'J^lie occasional interposition ot a warmer current of atmosphere between the lower cur-
rent and the higher regions, has been proved by the observations of aeronauts. In coun-
tries situated like the United States, where the surface i.s often occupied in winter, for
long periods, by an intensely cold stratum of air from the interior elevations, the warm
currents from lower latitudes appear to find their way at a superior elevation ; and their
ureseiice iu this position is often demonstrated by the phenomena whichthey induce.
Clouds, Fogs and Haiti.
The atmosphere is always pervailed by water in the form of transparent or invisible
vapor, and the process of evaporation is continually carried on, except in cases where
the tliennonieter is below what is called the dew point, or when the vapor is being con-
densed in ihe form of clouds, fogs, or rain. "Clouds and fogs are the same thing, b ng
an assemblage, of small vesicles of water floating in the atmosphere. At a distance in
the atmosphere we see the whole as a cloud, but when the vapor sinks to the earth, or
will not rise, and we are immersed in it. we call it a fog. T)ew-fogs which hang over
fields, are .s//-rt/«scloiuls ; and fous which involve elevated objects, are cunivlous c\ouda."
It is to circumstances of distribution, light, shade, distance, tiiid perspective, that the
great variety in the appearance of the clouds is owing ; and on this variety of appear-
ance the following classification has been founded, by which the clouds have been con-
sidered as pertaining to seven classes :
1. Like a lock of hair, or a feather, called cirrua.
2. A cloud in conical or rounded heaps, called cumulus. ^
.T. A horizontal sheet, called stratus.
4. A system of small (If I'cy or rounded clouds, called cirro-cumulus.
5. I'he wavy or unduh'trng stratus, called cirro stratus.
G. The cumulus and ciiro-Mratus mixed, called cumuln-slratus.
7. A. cumulus spreading out in cirrus, and raining beneath, called niinhis.
The cirrus is usually the most elevated— sometimes as a gauze veil, or parallel threads.
Its height is apparently from one to four iniles.
Dew is the condensation of aqueous vapor upon the surface of a condensing body or
substance. Clouds and fogs are watery ])articles condensed from aqueous vapor while
floating in the atmosphere, where they continue to float till precipitated, or again (lis-
solved. If by the concentration of these particles, or by any additional condensation,
their weight be increased beyond that which the extent of their surface can sustain, they
then descend in the form of rain; and as the condensation onlinarily increases as the
drops increase in magnitude, it is common to have more rain fall on 'he surface of the
ground than on an equal space upon the top of a house or church. Clouds, fogs, and
rain are therefore essentially the same, the latter being the continuation or extension of
the same process which produced the former.
Owing to the evaporating qualities of the atmosphere in the higher regions, as well as
to the Ititensity of cold which there uniformly prevails, distinct clouds are seldom, il
ever, found at a greater elevation than the summits of the highest mountains, which is
about five miles. At an intermediate region, however, the clouds are often at a tem-
perature above freezing, while the air at the surCace is much below the freezing point,
and the earth covered with snow. This condition of the clouds seems not unfrequently
evident by their appearance to the eye of an observer. Snowy or frozen clouds are
usually dim and undefined in their aspect or appearance; and a fall of snow may not
unaptly be termed the fall of a frozen cloud.
Of Hail.
Hail of small size, as it falls in wintry storms, appears as frozen rain-drops. From
the occurrence of this phenomenon in a freezing state of weather, we find evidence that
a stratum of air in the region of clouds is at a temperature above the freezing point, or
warmer than that which is found at the surface at the same time. A heavy fall of snow
attords, perhaps, tlie same indication.
Summer hail of large size, which is deposited in a definite path or vein, or in a locality
of limited extent, is usually accompanied by heavy thunder and vivid or continued light-
nings, or a heavy rumbling sound or rapid concussion?, high winds, &c., and is believed
692
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PlLOt.
to be the production of a vortex or whirlwind ii. the atmosphere, which is connected jt
hi iij)j)er oxtifmify with an overlay in<; stratiiiu of iinusually cold air. A portion oii!;,
cold stratum piohably descends on the exlcrior of the vortex, and reachiofr the ciirii;,
surface, is pressed into the vortex and there entwined or laminated with tlie Invf'df
warm and humid air of the surface, wiiich is drawn in at the same time. A rapid cf.
densation, as is known, thus commences at the lower extremity of the whiriiii;,' ni;\»,
column, and the con<lensed drops, ; Iteniately in a free/ins; aiul unfrozen layer of aii, ;„,
carried upward hy the powerful whirlini^ and a. Lending action of the vortex, till, wj;:
tlie successive coatinsjs of condensation received, they are finally discharged into il.j
colli stratum at the upward extremity of the vortex, owing to the reduced teinpeniim
of which, they are prepared to receive a renewed accession during their fall to the cinil)
or perhaps by tlieir accumulated weight they are sometimes thrown through the sidpi
of the vortex before reaching its higher extremity, liy this violent gyratory and tie.
vating action, some of the hail-stones are thrown against each other and broken ; m<l
each successive layer of congelation may often be seen in the fractured sections oi'ihr
liail. In all vorticular condensations of this character, when the cold is not sufficicnik
intense to produce hail, drojjs of rain are produced of a much greater size than 're ever
found in a coinmon and direct fall of rain.
Hail storms of this character are less freijucnt in the tropical regions than in theteni-
perate latitudes, for the reason, probably, that a stratum of suflicient cold to prodiiceilie
hail, is seldom found so near the infeiior stratum that a voi<icular comnumi( ation cm
be e-i|al)lished with the former, by means of an ordinary gust, s|)out, or whirlwind, ^or
does this ordinarily happen in the temperate latitudes ; but only when the lower iviirm
stratum becomes overlaid, in close proximity, by a stratum from a colder region ; aneieiit
whi h is not unfre(pient in most countries within the temperate latitudes. It coiii-
]uoidy hajjpens, therefore, that several hailstorms of greater or less magnitude and vio-
lence, occur on the same day, or about the same period.
ff Of Thunder Storms and Gush,
"When a cold stratum or current f)f the upper atmosphere moves or rests upon a warm
one which is next the earth, lu'ither stratum, as such can penetrate or (l'S|)l;ic(' tin'
other. Nor can a sudden interchange or conuningling take place bet\veen the iikisms
or particles of which these strata are composed, except by the sh-w and tedious prucess
of the successive action and convolution of single particles, or small groups of |);inicl('s,
upon or around each other; l)ut if a communication or interchange between die iwo
strata becomes established by means of the action of !i gradually e«cited whirlwind or
water-spout, or if, owing to any inecpiality of surface or other accident, a (te))re.>.sioiiis
made upon the lower stratuiu, so as to enable the colder air to descend at tbiss point,
then an immediate gyration or convolution will take place in the two masses at tliis
point, the warm air rising as it becomes displaced, and a copiotis condc'isiiiKn will
immediately follow. Jt is movements of this character which produce the dense nril
cotivoluted appearance known as a thunder cloud, and the thunder and lightning, niiii,
and perhaps hail, follow as necessary icsults.
The precipitation of the colder stratum thus commenced, is regularly continiivl inl
enlarged till an eijuilibrium is jiroduccd, and the thunder storm thus engendered,
assumes, of course, the direction of the u|)per current to which it is apijcnded, aiul
which, in the temperate latitudes, is commonly from the western quarter. The warm
surface air whi"'i is thus displaeerl at the comnuMicement of the ])rocess, rises immedi-
ately in front of the colder intruding mass, and by the gyratory action thus commenced,
becomes convoluted in detached masses or layers with the colder surrounding air, ami
by the reduction of temperature thus produced, furni.shes the large supply of aqneoiii
vapor which is first condensed in the heavy thundercloud, and then preripit;itcd ina
heavy fall of rain ; and the electric phenonipna which are induced by this sudden cfin-
tact or interiniiiL^ling of luasses of air of different temperatures and hygrometric toiid)'
tions, beconie highly vivid, and too often dcstiuciive. The active gyration whieli ■
commonly produced wi.'hin the body of the tliunder storm or gtist, is in the directioiu:
the advance of the storm and of the rising warm air which is forced upward, or in lb
direction of forward and upward at the lower front of the storm.
In eonse(|uenee of this gyratory action, a storm which advances at the rate ol iif'f'"
or twenty miles an hour, is often known to exhibit a velocity of wind during the perioil
of its greatest .violence, of sixty or eighty miles an hour. If the axis of this gyraiionina
thurtder storm assumes, from any cause, a vertical i)osition, we then have a |)erlfct
whirlwind or tornado, which, if it be so situated as not to reach the ealth by its dirfd
action, will exhibit to us the phenomena of a heavy thunder storm accompanied bv
rumbling sounds and .oncussions, and a fall of hail in or near some portion ot its paiU'
i^
IJut if the regl
time, great de
winds is genei
From tlie
currcnce ol a
cur on tlie sa
marked in the
often found tl;
(I i lie re lit jiarts
soil to believe
occurred on tl
atmosphere at
change in tlie
after.
Atniospheri
are usually d;'
air of a tempe
tion of (liundi
air at the surf;
liwaws, are ve
of Capt. P. P.
The luMvi
wliicii impli(^
which the viol
jiosition. '^^rii
also the water
sively inert, li
jbrces which
taut sense, res
The charaet
count of hail ;
maiiiiained by
it a,)])ears to hi
From the eq
it results, that
by means of a
A vortex \vi
an external pr
axis towards w
fulfilled to tbe
upper extremi
and the colum
centrifugal eff
into which the
of the surroui
chimney, but
of the preced
discharged at
maintained, is
the mechanic;
active to prod
nearly fifteen
own compass
count for all I
Were then
the up|)er exti
rotation ; but
cause, the pai
yield at a littl
proximating c
itnation as coi
nal pressure b
spiral circuit c
\—
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
C93
Hut if tliR vPgVilar action of the whirlwind should reach the earth, and continue lor some
time, LMcat destruction tnay l)e expecti.'d to follow. 'J'lie pmh of these destructive whirl-
winds is generally narrow, and often l)ut a few luindred yards in width.
Kroni the na'ure of the causes which we have set foith as heinj; fnvorabie to the oc-
currence of a ihunder storm, ii iollows that many of these storms will he likely to oc-
cur nn the same day, in dilferent i)arts of the same country, as has been already re-
marked in the case of hail storms, with which they are often identical ; and the writer has
often foniid tiiis to he true to a remarkaljje extent. 'The fatal accidents by lit;htninji:, in
dilferent ])arts of the country, have often ha|)|)eiied on the same days, ami we have rea-
son to believe that scores of tornadoes, hail storms, and thunder storms, have sonu'times
occurred on the same afferiH)on. It usually ha|)pens that the precipitation.; of colder
alinosphere at these numerous points of distnrbaiu'C. is siilhcient to produce a marked
change in the temperature of the surface stratum within a period of tv.elve hours tliere-
iifter.
Atmospheric disturbances of this kind, which do not produce violent thunder or hail,
are usually d.-noniinated sr/««//,v; and it appears highly probable that the presence of
air of a leinperature considerably above the free/ing point, is necessary to the produc-
tion of (bunder and lightning, in the .Strait of Magalhaeiis, in Patagonia, where the
air at the surface is neither warm nor yet very cold, the squalls, called by the sailors wil-
liwaws, are very frequent, and tremendously severe; but, according to the observations
of Capt. P. P. King, lightning and thunder are seldoiTi known.
The he ivi condensation presented in a thunder cloud, is often spoken of in a manner
whicii ini])!'!^ that the cloud jiossesses sonu' mechanical or other energy, l)y means of
which the violent wiiul is sent forth; but nothing can be more unreal than such a sup-
position. The cloud may indeed be the means of electric development, r-.nd furnishes
also the watery deposition for the hail or rain, but all the ])articles of the cloud are pas-
sively inert, like those of a common fog or mist, and the violent winds and disturbing
.forces which may be jjresent, operate to* produce the cloud, but do not, iu any impor-
tant sense, result from its action. • ,^
Walcr-spouls and Whirlwinds.
TYif' cViaracter of these meteors has already been described in a measure, in our ac-
count of hail and thunder-storius. The identity of whirlwinds and water-spouts, was
maintained by Franklin, and although at a later period this has been called in question,
it a,)pears to have been iloue without sufficient reason.
From the equal distribution of the atmosphere as tlic oceanic envelope of our earth,
it results, that no movement of great violeme can take place in any of its parts, except
by means of a direct circuit of rotation in the form of a vortex or active whirlwind.
A vortex will not be regularly formed, nor continue itself in action, without the aid of
an external propelling force and a constant spiral discharge from that extremity of its
axis towards which is the tendency of m(>tion. IJoth these condition?, it i.s believed, are
fuKilled to the letter in the case of a common whirlwind or water-spout. The air at the
upper extremity of the whirling column, owing to its elevation, is rarer than at the base,
and tlie coluitm itself, particularly in its central portions, is mechanically rarefied by thfe
centrifugal ellect of its own whirling motion. We have thus a sort of rarefied chimney
into which the denser air at the base of the colunm is continually forced, by the ))ressure
of the surrounding atmos])here; not to ascend in a separate current as in the common
chinmey, but entering iiuo the organization of the whirling vortex, to supply the place
of the preceding ptutions of air which are winding inwards and upwards to be again
discharged at the upjier extremity. The condition of force by ^vhich the propulsion is
maintained, is found in the pressure of the surrounding attnospherc upon all sides of
the mechanically rarefied column, and if the expansive whirlii'g tnotion be sufficiently
active to produce nearly a vacuum at the centre, the external projielling force will be
nearly fifteen pounds to the square inch; and as the whirling column turns within its
own compass like a top or any other rotative body, this force is quite sufficient to ae-
count for all the violence (hat is ever produced.
Were there no vorticular or whirling action already exc'ted, and no dischaige from
the upper extremity of the vortex, the external pressure, it is true, could not produce
rotation; but this movement and upward discharge having once commenced, from any
cause, the particles near the exterior of the column, like those of water in a funnel,
yield at a little more than a right ancle, to the external pressure, in their spirally ap-
proximating course fov/ards the rarified centre. By the slowness of this central approx-
imation as compared with the whirling action, the intensity or niagnitude of the exter-
nal pressure becomes merged in the velocity of the rotative action. As the area of the
spiral circuit decreases rapidly as we approach the centre, it follows thiit the velocity of
694
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
the wliirliiijn; movement niustbe proportionably increased, as we perceive it to 1)e in tl;e
funnel and in all rt'miiar I'drMied vortices. 'I'lius, il' ihe rotative velocity near tlu; exie.
teiiire
rior of a column be at the rate of but ten miles an iiour, at one tliird nearer tlie
llie velocity munt be more than doubled, and at two thirds of tlie distance from the ti
named point to the centre, the absolute whirliii!; velocity must be increased nine (u\\
which iv this .-lase is e(|ual to ninety miles an lionr; and in conse(|uence of the rcdiiced
diameter of the circuit of i;yration at the last point, the number of revoliifii,,,,
must here be as four liundred. to one at the jioint (irst mentioned. Tlie increiiseij
ascendins; velocity, however, is not here taken into account, which may perliaps reduce
the number of comparative revolutions in the central portions of the column. Tlie
condensintj and electric clfects w
iicli
olieii attend or follow tliese active whirlwinds, bv,
been cursorily noticed under the head of ihuiider-storms.
It is not intended to dwell here u|uin the causes by wliich whirhvinds and sponts are
excited or fust set in n>otion, but the local disturbam;e of heat is jjiobably the cliielpx.
citini;; cause as in thunder-storms. 'JMie agency of heat may also be etfective in coniiim.
ing the upward discharge and vorticular organization, in cases where there is great dij.
parity in the temperalmes of the air at the upper and lower extremities of the wjiiriinj
mass orcoliinin, lint il is to the mechanii'al expan-:iun of the centrifugal action mid ihe
])owerful impulse of the atmospheric pressure;, that the increased and powerful actiniv
of the whirlwind is cliielly to bi; referred.
The term in/lcr-spoul is undoubtedly a misnomer, as there is no cfl'ect produced of
which this term is jiroperly descriptive, although the term air-spout would not be^rrniv
inap|)ropriate. 'J'he visible column of comlensed vapor whicli often ap|)ear.s in the lan.
fit'i centre of the vortex when tlie latter is not envelojied in cloud, lias jirobably i;i\>a
nam.- to this meteor. But the watcf of the sea is not taken up by the spout or whirl-
wind, except in a slight degree and in the form of fine sprav, like other light inaitet
which is swept from the surface. This cloudy stem or column freciuently appears aini
disappears, while the action of tlie whirlwind continues without any i'liportant chaiiiie.
Owing to this fact, observers sometimes believe that they witness the commeneeincntoi
a water-spout, or tornado, when tlie same has previously been in action for one or nioie
hours, and when the cloudy pipe or pillar happens to disappear the spout is supposed to
have 'burst,' while, often, it lias undergone no important change, except, perhiips, a
slight decrease in its activity. The active and violent portion of the whi'-lwind surrounds
the spout invisibly, and is probably of much greater diameter at a distance from tlipsur-
face of the earth than at the base of tlie spout. Thus, when a spout or whirhvimi has
passed near a ship, the upper spars liave been converted into wreck while no violence
o( wind was felt on the deck.
Water-spouts follow tlie course eitlier of the surface wind or of the higher current
with which they may communicate, or their course may be modified by both these inllu-
ences without being absolutely determined by either. They abound most, however, in
those calm regions wliich are found at the external limits of the trade winds, and iu the
regions near the etjuator.
It has been common to ascriiie whirlwinds and water-spouts, as well as larger wliirl-
wind storms, to an impulse jiroduced by the meeting of contrary currents, but the ia»vs
of distribution and of motion in an oceanic body, are such as do not permit the move-
ments of its different curn nts and gyrations to meet in conflict with each other, besides
any conflicting movement in tlie air would necessarily produce a rise in the barometer,
whereas it is generally known to fall at the commencement of a storm, either of larjieor
small extent. We may observe, also, that whirlwinds and spouts appear to commence
gradually, and to acquire their full activity without the aid of foreign causes; besides,
it is well known that they are most frequent in those calm regions where, apparently,
there are no active currents to meet each other, and they are least frequent where
currents are in full activity.
0/ Trade Winds and the circuitous Character of the Atmospheric Currents.
It is found that in almost every countrv, and in every sea, the wind is more or kss
predominant in a particular direction. In open sea, between the equator and the 30th
parallel of north and south latitudes, the wind, for the most part, blovys from the east-
ward ; bill near the eastern borders of any ocean, below these latitudes, the wind blo«i
in a direction more towards the equator than in its central or western portions.
In the higher latitudes north of 30^ the westerly winds are found greatly to prednni-
inate, although the eddying or rotative action which is acquired by large portions of the
lower stratum of air vi tii?se latitudes, causes much diversity and frequent changes in
the initial direction n'. the wind. But in the common region of clouds where this ed-
dying movement is less frequent, the main atmospheric current, at least in the United
States, is fully
any tropical re
At New- Vol
the easterly, a:
same period, s
elevation to be
the prevailing
by the observat
the easterly, in
prevalence of
ships, from K
America to Imi
The first im
occasions an e
trade winds in
iieiits, across w
or thrown olf
jihere in the hi
it the rotative i
slower rotativi
westerly wind
An entire cir
tor. the most ei
trade winds; an
our atmosphert
by the winds in
perature and (
chiefly to be re
peculiar to cer
The Monsoo
culation ; the r
here deflected
tccslcrly rnonsoi
have, indeed, b
westerly monsoi
of the great P;
The foregoin
I. Between t
for the n
the eartl
II. The space
fugal aci
III. That porti
passes v
of direci
serving
these la'
IV. That porti
having a
previous
winds, i.
loped in
It is by tilt
storms are four
of these storms
currents pursu
courses from v;
other, they exl
quent changes
matic courses
regularity and
lowest portions
The rotative
the trade wind:
cessarily subjec
iu warm region
V
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
G95
it to l)c in ![;e
near tlie ex;^.
nrcr tlio ccmitp
- iVom tlieli-i
isuti nine |'i,l!,
ol' the i-('(iiic,,|'
oC revolntiiMi,
The iiici(M., ;
)erliii|)s rediK,.
coiiiinn. Ti.t
liilwiuds, liavc
md spouts ar,.
y tlie cliieles-
ive in eotiliim.
re is great (lis.
il" the whirlirj
action imd i|i.
wei-l'ul ;ictil||v
t produced :|
I not be {^rrniv
ars ill tilt i;in.
proliabiv i:ii>n
pout orwliiil-
r I'slit iii;it!er
ly appears m
urtant cliai)i;e.
imeneeiiienioi
jr one ormoie
is supposed to
■pt, peiliiips, a
vind suiroiinds
from thesur-
whirhvind \m
le no violence
igher curreDi
th these inllu-
, however, ia
ds, and iu the
larger whirl-
but the liiws
nit the move-
other, besides
le barometer,
ler ofiiirjieor
to commence
ises ; besides,
apparently,
quent where
irrents.
more or les'
mil the 3O1I1
oin the east-
e wind blo«.'
)ns.
y to prednni-
)rtlons of ilie
it changes in
lere this ed-
the United
States, i-i fully as conftant from the westvrard as is the trade wind from the eastward in
any tropical rejiion.
At New-Vork, in four sticcessive years, the westerly winds have been found to be to
the easterly, as nearly two to one. Ubservations on the ourses of the clouds for the
same period, show the ]»revalence of an atmospheric current from the westward at that
elevation to be, as compared with thosu from the eastwiird, nearly as fourteen to one;
the prevailing; wind beiiii; south-westerly. At JMontreal, in Lower Canada, as appears
bv the observations of J. jM'Cord, Esq., the westerly surface wiinls also appear to exceed
the easterly, in the proportion of more than four 10 one. In corisetiucnce of the general
prevalence of westerly winds and currents in these latitudes, the passajies of the fastest
.ships, from Europe to America, arc found to occupy a much longer period than from
America to Kurope.
The first uiDvement of the trade winds towards the equator and wcstwatd, necessarily
occasioiH an equal movement from the higher latitude to supply their ])lace ; and as the
trade winds in their progress westward are opposed by the American and Asiatic conti-
nents, across which these winds do not pass, it follows that the.se winds heroine dellected
or thrown olf towards the pules in order to stijjport an e(]ual distril)Ution of the atmos-
phere in the higher latitudes; but the air thus transferred to these latitudes carries with
it the rotative impulse which it acipiired in the tropical latitudes, and by reason of the
slower rotative motion which here prevails, is thrown to the eastward in the form of
westerly winds.
An entire circuit of atmospheric currents is thus maintained on both sides of the equa-
tor, the most equable and determinate portion of which i.s to be found in the region of the
trade winds; und this appears to be the general outline of the greatsystem of circulation in
our atmosphere, as well as in the ocean itself. It is to the geographical coiirse pursued
by the winds in dilVerent portions of these great circuits, that the peculiarities of tem-
perature and climate |)ertaining to diri'erent countries lying in the same latitudes, are
chielly to be referred, as also the remarkable absence or predominance of rain which is
peculiar to certain regions.
The Monsoons of the Indian Seas are but a modification of the same system of cir-
culation; the regular trade wind instead of firning towards the higher latitudes, being
here dellected across the equator, where it returns to the eastward in the form of the
wcslcdif monsoons ; the casicrLy monsoons being the regular trade wind. The monsoons
have, indeed, been ascribed to local rarefaction in Asia and New-Holland, but the north-
westerly mon.soon, regardless of this liyjwthesis, sometimes sweeps over half the breadth
of the great Pacific in its eastwardly progress.
The foregoing generalization may also be expressed in the following form:
I. Between the two parallels of 30"^ N. and S. the atmosphere at the earth's surface,
for the most part, revolves around the axis of the earth with a slower motion than
the earth's crust, or is constantly being left behind in the movement of rotation.
II. The space previously occupied by the atmosphere so left behind, is by the centri-
fugal action of the earth's rotation, constantly supplied from the higher latitudes.
III. That portion of the atmosphere which is left behind in the tropical latitudes, and
passes westward by the earth's rotation, as above described, is, by the force
of direct gravitation, constantly transferred to the higlier latitudes ; thus pre-
serving the equilibrium of distribution, so far as the same is ever maintained in
these latitudes.
IV. That portion of the atmosphere which is so transferred to t^^e higher latitudes after
having acquired the high rotative velocity of the equatorial regions, is, by this
previously acquired impulse, thrown rapidly eastward in the form of westerly
winds, thus completing the great circuit of perpetual gravitation, which is deve-
loped in each of the oceanic basins on both sides of the equator.
It is by the currents of these natural circuits of gravitation, that hurricanes and
storms are found to be transported from one region or locality to another; and the track
of these storms allbrds demonstrative evidence of the predominating course which these
currents pursue. The currents themselves often become modified in their apparent
courses from various causes, and being often stratified, or as it, were shin tried upon each
other, they exhibit in their crossings, initial movements in different directions, and fre-
quent changes at the surface, \hile still performing with no little regularity the syste-
nntic courses which have been summarily pointed out. One obvious cause of the ir-
regularity and superposition of these currents is found in the retardation to which the
lowest portions are subject, owing to the resistance of the earth's surface.
The rotative motion of the atmosphere and the earth's surface in the latitudes between
the trade winds and the returning westerly winds being nearly equal, this region is ne-
cessarily subject to calms, and to those sudden gusts and squalls which are usually excited
in warm regions m the absence of a prevailing wind. This region, in the North Atlantic,
COG
BLUNt's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
is known to niivigntors na tho horse latitudes, because tlie traders between New Knil.i
and tlie West Indies, in cdnsequfMiee of the lark ot" sustenance occasioned hy \y^^
call. IS, were soi letinies under the necessity of thn/wing overboard tlie whole or ;i ti;irt
oCthe'rdeck loads o( horses. The great circuits ol' winds intersect and cross tlnse i,|||.
tildes in both directions on almost every meridian, but with little sensible ell'i'ct at \^^p
surface, exce|)t towards tho eastern margin of the Atlantic, where the northerly «inil<
tlecidedly prevail; and towards the western niargin of the Atlantic and in the (lull,,,
Mexico, where the southerly winds arc usually prevalent.
SiMiilar results are found in nearly ail the rei;ions which separate the great naliir:il
circuit of winds from each other, and these tracts of ocean are known by thedesi^natiniiin
the calms, and sometimes are called llie rains or the variables. Sucli is the regioii iibnn;
the e(|iiator, whicii separates the northern from the southern trade win<!s, and tli(M;ist.
eriy I'rom the westerly monsoons. The I'asterly monsoons, in approachitii; the e(|ii;iti)r,
wliere they run into the westerly monsoons, necessarily ac(|uire the same vclncnv i,|
rotation as the earth's crust, which of course |)ro(luces calms; the northerly or soutlierlv
tendency of the monsoons being liere too small to produce a leading breeze at thesuriiice,
Land and Sea Breezes.
Near the shores of an island or country it is often found that the wind, during diHcreni
hours of tl'" day and night, blows alternately to and iroin the land. Or in the caseula
general o; trade wind which is parallel to the coast, its course becoines alternately riioili-
tied by an aiiproximation to the above result. This elVect has properly been ascribed lo
the inlluence of diuinal heat and cold. Not that any vacuum is created by the lirntintn
which the surrounding air rushes, as has sometimes been supposed ; for, asnie fiouilie
general error of this notion, a tlat, low, and strongly lieated island or coast, has lesselTect
in producing these breezes than a high sloping country of more even tem|)eratiiip.
The truth appears to be, that when the stratum which lies upon the incline! siiii',k»
of a coast becomes wa-.med and raritied by the daily heat, it is Ibrced by the iiicrciiiii;:
of pressure at its lowest margin to move along the iiclined surface in the diiectiHn m
greatest elevation, or as near that direction as the prevailing tendency of the lower cm-
rent will allow. Owing to the cooling process which goes on during the night, tlif'>|i:-
cific gra-'ity of the inclined stratum becomes predominant, and the, reverse iiioteiiMiii
then commences and continues into the following morning. We find, too, t!i;il nn flio
slopes of certain coasts and islands where there is sufficient elevation, the higher iinisin
of this stratum, at certain seasons, will daily reach an altitude at which it is biouilu in
contact with a higher stratum sufficiently cold to set in operation a scpiall or lluimlii
storm, at a certain hour; after which the equilibrium is restored, and the usual cuiiiitcr
movement again follows in its turn.
Some diurnal effect of this kind upon the wind is observed at times in almost even
region ; and, taken altogether, it is probably the most extensive agency which is exeicised
by beat iu the production of winds.
HI IllllCA
e
* The tracks o
v^
ncd by iiipsg
hole or ;i imft
DSS these |,||.
I cli'i'rt ;it !„,,
irthcrlj uiiid,
u the'dulioi
grc:it natural
(lesi£;nat,l(iiiiii
J rcjjiuii iiljoii;
iiiiil the cast.
i tlio e(|u;\l(ir,
lie vfliicitv ,,|
y or soutliptlv
iinUesurliite,
urine; different
ti tlie case Ola-
ernalely modi-
v.n ascriheilto
y tlie hcntlpin
aside t'niiilip
has lesseiiect
iperatiire,
cliiu"! siiil',iri>
the iiicrciiKii!
lie ilircctiiiii ni
tlie lowi'i cm-
nii;hr, tliespo-
ivsv tnoveniciit
o, th;it III) flm
iiy;li('nii:ir':iii
is hrotulnifi
ill or thunder
usual cuiuilcr
almost every
;h is exercised
'H
e
BLUNT*S AMERICAN COAST PILOT. COt
OBSERVATIONS
ON THE
IIUHlllCANES AND STOJIMS OF Illi: WF.ST IINDIFS AND THE
COAST OF THE IJ.M IFD STATES,
15 Y W. (;. KEDKIKLD.
From a careful attention to the pro^^ress and plienonieiia of sonic of the inorc violen*.
storms which have visited the Western Atlantie, I hav(! f(Mind tlr.u tliey exhiliit cerlaii.
characteristics of ureat uiiilonnity. This appears, not only in the determinate course
which these storms are f.)uiid !<• pursue, hut hi the direction of wind, and »uc(;ossion of
changes which they exhihit while they eoiitiniie in action. The same general charac-
teristTcs appear also to pertain, in some decree, to many of tin; more common Variations
and vicissitudes of winds and weather, at least in the temperate latitudes. The follow-
jiiii points 1 consider as estahlished :
I. The storms of greatest severity often ovi^inate in tlie tropical latitudes, and, not un-
fre(|uently, to the eastward of the' Wc-st India Islands; in the tropical regions they
',vc dist'iiiiuished hy the name of liitrrintius.
I. These storms cover, at the i^aiiie moment of tii.ie, an extent of contiguous surface;
the diameter of which may vary in (.ifl'ereiit storms. Iroiu one hundred to Ave liuridred
miles, and in some cases tlity have !>eeii much more extensive. They act with dimiuishetl
Violence towards tli- exterior, and with iiien:ased energy towards the interior, of the space
■vhicli tlu'V occupy.
;j. W'liiie in the tropical latitudes, or south ai' ih.' parallel of ,30=, these storms pursue
llieir course or are driflrd hy the natural atmospheric current of the region towards the
west, on a track which inclines .gradually to the northward, till it approaches the lati-
tude of o()°. In the vicinity of tiiis par.illel, their course is changed somewhat ahruptly
to the northward and eastward, and the track continues to incline gradually to the eastj
towards which point, after leaving the lower latitudes, they arc found to progress with
an accelerated velocity.
The rate at which these storms are found thus to advance in their course, varied
indilfeifiut cases, hut may he estimated at from 12 to .'}() miles an hour. The extent tb
which their course is finally pursued, remains unknown ; hut it is prohahle that as they
proceed, they hecome gradually extended in their dimensions, and weakened in their
action, till they cease to command any peculiar notice. One of the hurricanes of Au-
gust, 18o0, has heen traced in its daily |)rogicss, from near the Caribhee Islands to thd
coast of Florida and the Caroliiias, and froiu thence to the hanks of Newfoundland, a
distance of more than three thousand miles, w hicli was passed over hy the storm in about
<ix days. The duration of the most violent portion of this gale, at the rlifferent points
over which it passed, was about 12 hours, hut its entire duration was in many places
more than twice that period. Another hurricane which occurred in the same months
passed from near the Windward Islands, on a more eastern hut similar route, and has
'Also heen traced in its daily stages hy means of the journals and reports of voyagers, nearf
iwo thousand five hundred miles. It was in this storm that the Russian Corvette, Ken-
sington, Captain Ramsey, sulfered so severely. The hurricane of August, 1831, which
desolated the island of Barhadoes on the 10th of that month, the daily progress of which
has also been ascert.iined, passed in nearly a direct course to the northern shores of thd
Gulf of Mexico and New Orleans, where it arrived on the iGth of the same month, hav-
ing passed over a distance of twenty-three hundred statute miles in 6 days after leaving
liarhadoes.* Many cases of like character might he adduced.
4. Tiie duration of tlie storm, at any place within its track, depends upon its extent
ind the rate of its progressive velocity, as these circumstances are found to deter-
mine the time which is required for the storm to pass over any given locality falling
.within its route. Storms of smaller extent, or dimensions, are usually found to move
from o:ie placp to another with greater rapidity than larger storms.
5. The course thus pursued by the storm, is found to he entirely independent of thd
direction of wind which it may exhibit at the dilfercnt points over which it passes — th6
wind in all such storms being found to blow after the manner of a whirlwind, around a
common centre or vortex, during their entire progress, and in a determinate direction or
* The tracks of these and other hurricanes appear on the annexed chart.
88
608
BLUNTS AMKUICAN COAST PILOT.
Cuurse of rotation, which is from riij,hl to Irfl (or in tiic (lin!ction from west to sniild)
horizontally. Th<! direction of the wind, therefore, for tiic most part, dors not coliuii,.
with the course of the storm.
(>. In the h)wer latitudes while driflina; to the westward, tlie direction of the wiml ,
the commencement, or innk-r the must ailvanced pdrlion (dilicse storms, is from :i „„, ,
ern quarter, usually at some point from north-east to north-west, and during the lim,,
part of the gale, it blows from a southern ([uarter of the hori/.on, ut all places wlieriiljf
whole effect of the ^ale is experienced.
7. After reachiui; the more northern latitudes, and wliilc pursuing their course toih,
northward and eastward, these storms ciimnienee with the wind from an eastern „,
•outhern quarter, and terminate witii the wind from a western tpiarter, as will iiji|i,.;,|
moie distinctly under the three Ibllowini; heads, the latter portion of the storm liein.
usually attended witli broken or clear weather.
8. On the outer jiortion of the track, north of the parallel of ;;()", or within that por-
tion of h which Vn)>i fiiiilirst. from the, American coast, <hese storms exhibit at lliciidn.
mencenient a soulhcrh/ wind, which, as the storm comes over, Vicis ^railuiillij to
westward, in which quarter it is found to terminate.
9. In the same latitudes, but alonjj; the ciitral porlirnis of (he trtirk, the first foric i
ihe wind is from a point near to saiith-ntsl, but after blow inir for a certain periml,
chansrcs suddcnhj^ and usually alter a short intermission, to a jjoint nearly or diiPfii
Opposite to tiiat from wliich it lias previously I'cen blowing, from which opposite i|i;;ir.
ter it blows with equal violence till the storm has passad over, or has abated. Tbissml
den change of a south-easterly wind to an opposite direct'./n, ihics tiof arrur uunn-.
either margin of the. slonn's trac/c, but only on its more centr.ii portion, and takes (u,.
In regular progression alon<i tliis central part of the route, iVoih the sonlh-inst touinl.
the north-east, in an order of time, which is exactly coincident with the progress uiil,»
ttorm in the same direction. It is under this jxirtion of the storm that we notice iht
greatest fall of the barometer, and thu mercury usually begins to rise a short time pmi
OUS to the change of wind. In this part of the track, the storm is known as a ,w,„:.
taster, and is usually attended with rain previous to the change of wind, and perhaps for
a short time after.
10. On that portion of the track which is nearest the American coast, or which isi-ir.
thest inland if the storm reaches the continent, the wind commences from a nujiee.iq.
ern or north-eastern point of the hori/on, and afterwards vrers more or lessgrailiiallv, Ijv
north, to a north-western or westerly (luarti-r, wliere it linally terminates, llereulsuthc
first part of the storm is usually, but not always attended with rain, and its latter or west-
ern portion with fair weather. The first or foul weather portion of the storm, i.s on iliii
part of its track, recognized as a north-caslr.r.
It should be noted, however, that near the latitude of 30"^, and on the shores of Caro-
lina, where thestorm enters oblicpiely ui)on the coast, while its track is rapidly '•liangin;
from a northwardly to an eastwardly direction, the wind on the central track of the
Btorm, will commence from an eastern or north-eastern point of tiie compass, and wll!
gradually become south-easterly as the storm approaches its height.
11. A full and just consideration of the facts which have been stated, will show con-
clusively that the portion of the atmosphere which composes for the time bcinj; llif
great body of the storm, whirls or blows as above stated, in a liorizontal circuit, aroiiml
a vortical or somewhat inclined axis of rotation which is carried onwind wiili the
storm; that the course or direction of this circuit of rotation is from riiiht to /<;/'/.• and
that the storm operates nearly in the same manner as a tornado or whirlwind ofsmallir
dimensions; the chief difference being in the more disk-like (ormoftluMvliirliui; body ami
the magnitude of the scale of operation.* This view of the subject, when fully coiii|irf-
hended, affords a satisfactory solution of the otherwise inexplica!)le phenomena of stoniii
and will also be found to accord entirely with the (act which ai)pears in the above stall-
ment, that in the phases or changes whicli pertain to a storm, the wind, on one marg'
of its track, veers ivilJi the sun, or from left to rifiht, while under the opposite margin o
the same storm it veers arxainst the sun, or from r'lffJit to left : for this peculiarity iieces
sarily attends the progressive action of any whirlwind which operates hori/nntallv.
12. Owing to the centrifugal action of these rotative stonris, the barometer, wliPthf:
in the higher or lower latitudes, always siid<s while under tlic first portion or moietvt:
the storm on every part of its track, excepting, perhaps, its extreme outward margio,
nnd commo
The mercm
(if the u;de,
of the storn
The grea
practical uli
mercurial C(
recorded, ot
wlu'M a disti
porfance.
In the foi
tlie prineipa
not attempt
and plienom
which may
oils ;md elas
violent stora
«hara''teri.-.ti
vortex or rot
siderable ra
<-aiie ; and s
lial to the c(
<'onnt for tin
are so offi-n
but of its ex
In rnrdy'
been lying ii
ut the very ;
in (pi e an o
This state
dcr the iwo t
circuit of rot
We will supn
'■
* It is to be understood that the diameter of the whirlwind which constitutes the storm is com-
mensurate with the widdi of the track over which the storm passes. The main body of the siorra
18 supDosed to move in the form of an extensive disk, whirling around its own centre as it ad-
vances in its regular track — with this difference, that the rotative movement is far more rapid in
the interior portions ot| the whirhng body, than towards its exterior hmits.
with due alio
W. Theot
as shown at <
of the storm,
ously been fa
at tne depart
allowance al
the facts coi
Atlantic stor
the two diflfei
mistaken for
The phase
by the cours(
a ship on tak
BLUNTS AMKIIICAN COAST IMI.OT.
C99
f
I
anil roinmonly iilfonls us the oinliost and wurrst indicittioii of tlic apprnnchlnf; tompest.
Tlic iiirrfuiy in tin; hiirniiiL'tfr always rises ai;aiii dniin;' llie passa.ne of the last portion
of the uale, and coniinonly attains tlio tnaxininni ut'it.s elevatinns on the entire departure
<ir the storm.
Till' i.'reat value of the Itaronieter to iiavl^atorH Ih hecoiniiiK well understood, and itt
i)r;ietic:d utility mi^lit he ^'reatly iiicicasi'd hy lionily (intrics of the precise lieif;ht of tlie
mercurial column, in a talde prepareil tor the purpose, its movements, unlens carefully
recorded, often eseap> notice or reconectiun^ which may easily happen at those times
when a distinct knowledge ol' its latest variations mi;ij;ht prove to he of the greatest ini-
j)ortance.
In the foremiiiiu' statements our dc,sif,'ii has hccn to designate in a suiiunary manner
the priiici|»al movements whi<:h, in lln'sc rejjiions at least, constitute a storm; and we do
not attempt to notice the /arious irregularities, and siihordinato or incidental moveinentfl
and |)hen<imen:i of the atmosphere with which a storm may chance to he connected, or
which may necessarily result from such violent movements in a (luiil which is so tenu-
ous and elastic in its character. It may he remarked in general, that the most active or
violent stor.ns are usually the uiost regular and uniform in the developuient of those
«hara<-.teri.4ic movements which we have already descrihed. It is also prohahle, that the
vortex or rotative axis of a violent ijale or hurricane, oscillates in its course with con-
si<leral)le rapidity, in a movinij circuit of moderate extent, near the centre of the hurrj-
<'ane ; and such an eccentric nuivemi'nf ol' the vortex may, f{jr au;;lit we know, Ix! essen-
tial to the continued activity or force of the hurricane. Such a movement will fully ac-
<;ount for tlie violent, //r;ws or,i;//.sV,s of wimi, and the intervening lulls or remissions, which
are so often ex|)('rience(l towards the lieart of a storm or hurricane, wlien in open sea;
l)Ut of its existence we have no positive evidence.
In I'nrdy's IVIemoir of the Atlantic Ocean, it is stated "That while one vessel has
been lyin;!; to in a heavy c;ale of wind, another, not iiu)rc than .'?() leaij;ues distant, has
at the very same time been in another gale c()ually heavy, and lying to with tlie wind
in qu e an ojjposite direction."
This statenuMit is obviously to be iu;derstood as ai)plicahle to two vessels falling un-
«ler the two op|)ositc sides or ijoitions of the same storm, where the wind in its regular
circuit of rotation must, of course, blow from the opposite (|uarters of the horizon.
We will suppose one of the vessels to be at A and the other at U, in the annexed figure.
The stoiinin pursuiufj its course from
W towards N, will strike the first men •
tioned vessel in the direction which is
shown by the wind-arrows at the point
c, which, if the j)osition be in the tem-
jierate latitudes, north of 30°, will be
iVoiu eastward. Now, it is obvious,
that as the storm advances in its
course north-eastward, this vessel, if
nearly stationary, will intersect the
body of tlie gale on the line c A d.
As the stormadvances, the wind must
also veer to the northward, as shown
by the arrows, being at N. E. when
the vessel is brought under the point
A, and near the close or departure of
the storm by its further progress east-
ward, the wind will have furtherveer-
ed to the direction shewn ate?, which,
With due allowance for the progressive motion of the storm, we will set down at N. N.
W. The other vessel, as is equally obvious, will fu-st take the wind from the southward,
ns shown at e, in which quarter it will blow, with no great variation, till, by the advance
of the storm, the ship is brought under the point B. The baiometer, which had previ-
ously been (ailing, will now commence rising, and the wind, veering more westerly, will,
at tne departure of the storm, be found in the direction shown at/, which, after the
allowance already referred to, may be stated at W. N. W. Such, substantially, are
the tacts commonly reported by vessels which fall under the lateral portions of the
Atlantic storms, and it is readily seen, that the opposite winds which are exhibited on
the two different intersections of the storm, as above described, will very naturally be
mistaken for two separate and distinct gales.
The phases of the wind in these gales are, however, in all cases modified more or less
by the course or changing position of the vessel exposed to its action. For example;
a ship on taking the gale, say at E. S. E. at the point h, on the figure, and lying to with
i
N
•hx
W
^' ■
700
BLUNT S AMrniCAN COAST PILOT.
her )ie!u1 to t)io nortliwiinl, may l)y that iiirans Uv. I)i-()ii!;ht Id ititcrsrct the Rtortii on i|,
line h i, and, at thi' point /'. wnulil snddrnly Im> tidoii altack, with lln- wind, n,i) at N, \
W., as in the case ul' thii .laiiiair a lioiinward-liDiinil ll<'<'t in l'^*".', and the liannniiH
whicli reaches its lowest depression nnih-r llu! cential poilion (d tin- sloini, would ;ilj(,;,(
tl^ia period he t'oniid to have eoninieneiMl risinir with some dt^i^ree nl' rapidity.
A (nrther referenen to the (i)i;nre will show that a ship, wliieh may he at the point i
(luring the passage of the ^ale, would he exposed to a heavy swt'll troui the soutlm ,|,,
and westward; hut, \w\u<i heyond the oriiani/e<l limits of the stor'M, may remaineiiiiiiK
unatreeted hy the violence ol the wind, which at the same lime .lay he ra^iiii; wi(||i|,
Btruetive Cury at the distance ol' a lew leagues. The writer has knowh ili;e ol maiiyMui,
examples.
It has heen sujicested that "the larhoard lack is the proper one to lie to on, ns il,,
wind will then he loiind to draw alt-" lull this will tieipiently prove erroneous, ;im|„
wind may draw either way, on either ta(d\, accordiuij; to the position and course (iri|<(
Hhi|), in th(! storm, and the extent and rate ol' pro;.'r»'ss (d'ihe latter. In the case o| t|,r
Meet which encountered the yaleof ITHJ it was prolial)ly the hest course to carry sail tnir.i
northward at the very <'ommeiiceiiieiit ol' lite i^ide, and as Tar anil as loiii; as possihli ..
Ity this means the licet mii;ht, perhaps, have liceii drawn as lar northward as the pum
A on tlie (imire, and the chaii'^'e u( w iiid to the northward and westward would havclnci,
rendered more grailiial. Tin- ('hiel' diriicidly atid danger, is wlien the direction of |||,.
wind at the (irst settiii!,' in ol' ihe gale, is foiind to he nearly at ri^iht angles will; il;,.
known courses of the storms in the region >vliere tli(> gale is encountered, and it istlin
tlesirahle to jnirsuc HU(di a course as to avoid, if possible, ''ailing into the heart ol iln
ptprm.
It frequently liappena that a storm, during the first [lart of its progress over a jiion
point, fails totake ell'eet upon the surface, while il exhihits its fiiP activity at a grcaii'ralii.
tilde. This eommonly happens when this ])ortion of the storm arrives from, orliiistf-
pently hlown ov r a more elevated country, or ts passing or hlowing fiom the lain! to the
Boa. On land, the most viidi'iit elVeets arc? usually felt from those storms whicji tnic
and hlow from the open ocean upon the sliores (d" an island or continent. l'|)(]ii tin:
latter, under sucli circumstances, the ///•>/ part of the gale is iistially the most severe,
and that coast of an island upon which a storm first enters, or Idows, also sulJi'is \uw
from the early part of the gale, hut its laier, or receding part, often acts witli ilie l'itiii-
est fury upon the opposite side of the island, which had previously derived Mime dc-
gree of shelter from tlie intermediiite elevations and other ohstaclcs opjiosed to ikt'ont
of the wind, tiie henefit of which is now lost hy its coiiiiler direction from the oprniHe.ii),
Owing to similar causes, the forct> of the storm is sonictimes very iinetpial at ililieieiit
places, situated in nearly the same part of its track, and siieli iiic(|uality, as we hinebe-
fore intimated, necessarily pertains to two jjlaces, one of which is near tlie centre nnil
|he other towards the margin of the route.
Of the multitude of facts hy which these views might he illustrated, we vill only
ptate, th^t in the late Imrrieane at Hariiadoes. (that of August, iH.'il,) tlie trees near the
northern coast of that island, lay from N. N. W. to S. S. K., having been inostnitedb;
a northerly wind in the earlier part of tlie storm, while in the interior and some nllia
parts of the island, 'they were t'ound to lay from south to nortli, having fallen in tliehiler
period of the gale. 'J'liat after the same hurricane, advices lliat wer(> received Ircm the
islands of St. ("roix and I'orto Rico, (which lay near the nortiier margin of its track,)
stated that no hurricane had heen experienced at these islands; hiu it afterwards ap'
peared that some portions of these islands had suffered damage from this hurricane in
the night of tlie I'Jlh to lIUli of Auiriist, two ihiys after it passed over the island of Bar-
badoes. — That the sea-islands which horiiei the coast of (leorgia and the ('arnlinas,are
known to suflier greatly from these tenijiests, while little or no injury is sustained inllie
interior at the distance of a few miles from the coast. One of the most striking charac
teristics of these storms, is the heavy sircll which in open sea is often known to exteiK
itself on both sides of the track, entirely heyond the range of the gale by which itui:
produced. The last hurricane to which we have alluded, threw its swell with treiim:
dous force upon the northern shores of Jamaica, having passed to the northward of liii
island.
So strons; is the influence of our established modes of thinkine; on this subject, tbi
it seems to be difficult, even for those who admit the rotative character of these hurri-
canes, to understand correctly the true bearing and relations of the different phasescl
the wind, which are presented at two or more points or places visited by the same storti.
unless the subject has been thoroughly and carefully studied. Speculative opinioii.
also, upon the course of a storm, are, usually, if not always, founded upon the erroneous
notion of a rectilinear course in the wind. In the accounts received of the hnrricanf »'
Barbadoes on the 3d of September, 1835, which raged for a few hours from E.'N. E. feats
were expre^Jte
Ikmii (iiiadido
lliid Ihe dire
lehitions, it w
the soutlitvan
the onset ol' I
eastward, the
but il the oils
the southern
ward of the jk
ill order to
on which is ih
iiieroiis aiMii
identified froi
The route
Trini.lad.To
the ( 'aribbe.in
vessels, and it"-
maica on the
the nmthw.'n
the coast ^'uc;
Trinidad to tli
dred hours, a
nearly seventei
peninsula (d° \
ocean level.
Track No. I
night of Aiigii'
St. .lago de Cii
on the 1 ')th ; in
Orleans on the
something mor
f Mincer, was N.
leaving the oce
nies, and wiis pi
pears, however,
ward of the gul
Track No. 11
Islands on the ;
passed the nort
namas on the 21
on 23d and 24t
Nantucket on t
ascertained cou
average rate of
the tropic, may
N. 58° E.
Track No. V
the Windward
the 4th; Turks
coast of Geoiiri
wi.re, and the c
and the states e
highlands of Nc
was widely extt
fact pertains, in
pears to have |
Massachusetts,
than 2,200 mile
Track No. V
tigua, Nevis, a
Thomas, St. Ci
the vicinity of I
• Mr. Purdy sti
t All the distan
4i^
ic dtnriii (III il,
III, s.lV lit .\, \
llir liiiriiiiici,,
III, W (J II III lllll ;
ility.
ill lIlC |Hli||t I
1 tin- SOIllllW II
rciiiiiiii (■niiiii,
riiyiiiK with, I,.
;e of iiiiiiiy ,M„)|
lie to oil, lis ilif
riuifiiiis, Ms i],
il coiir.st' ol II,
tlio casi- ol'il,
(".irry sail idii
i; as |)(issi|i|i._
inl as tlif |;iii!j
k-oulil liavi'liifi,
ilii't'ctioii ol' ||||.
iii};!»'.s with i|,n
il, anil it i-iiliri;
he heart ol il/t
ESS over n civfii
iit a grcnii'ialii.
iVoiii, or )i;i- :
1 the lam! loili.
ins uiiidi fiiii,
ICnt. l'|)(lllll|,:
he most scvfiT,
liSO Slllii'lS llllh'
! witli iIh' iiiciii.
i,'i-iv('il suiiiP lie-
)scd totliel'oufc
tlio open lum
'1'
lal at ililii'tm;
IS \\v hiivelif-
the ceiitit ami
il, we \iill onlj
tn;f's near the
n ]inistr;ue(ll)v
ml soiiiP oilia
en in tlirlalei
•civfil iVoiiithe
n of its track,)
al'tei-waril-s ap-
is hiinicimeiD
island of Bar-
Caiolinas, are
ustained in ll:f
rikinp cliarac-
own to exterri
y which itwi:
1 with treiiiP!:
tliwanloflk
s subject, tl-'
of these liu'i-
rent i)hases;i
ic same storti.
ative opinion^
the erroneoib
e hurricane s!
E.'N. E.fw
^f<
BLUiNT's AMEUKAN TOAST IMJ.OT.
;oi
were rxpre'»Re<i i'l'i' 'ho safely of the ishinds to the iinrthwanl ; hut kiiIisi (iiU'tit iiitclliyenrn
iVoiii (liiailaloiipe anil iMartiiiieo, siieweil lli it llie iiile liail nut ixtendcil li> tlii'M- i'-hiiiils.
llail the ijireitioii ami i lian^es of tin wiinl in this sinrm In en .icwcil in their line
reiaiioiis, it would have heen pereeived that the Inart of the ;;ali' iniist iiave passed to
the siiutl'uvard of Barhadoes ; iiiiil, as a ^reiiera! nih* in the We«' 'ia laliliides, where
.' .1. . : . I'. .1 ».. I... *•.. ,1k.. .•oiii 1 itii-iwr'i.iih ..(* tl. I tf'iilji (fi,wl iti' iiififi.
w ->
nil whieii is delineated the route of several liiiirieanes and storms, as derived Iroiii nii-
iin, liy wiiieli their pmuress is speeiliially
eiiarl.
irieroiiH aeeounfs which are in my possi
iiiridiis ii,,i 1 1 11 in -• ,» ill, 11 fit '■ • I. . ..^T I — ' .' I " I •"
iiieniilied from day to day, dnriiifi tiial part idllitir route wliiili appciirs on the eiiarl.
'riie route designated as No. I, is tliat of the hiirrieaiie wliieh viMited llie islands of
Trinidad, 'rohano, and (Jrenada, mi the ;.';!d of .liine, \f*:'A. I'ursuinK its eonrse tlironuli
the Carililie.in Se.i, il was sulise(|iiently encoiinlered hy II. .M . Seliooiier .Miii\, mil oilier
vessels, and its swell was tlirewn with '.Meat (on e iipoii the -oiilh-easterii idiores of ,1a-
inaiea on the 'J.'jth, ivliile passin;; tliat ishmd, where tiie wind, at this time, was liulil from
the northwi^rd. .After sweejiiii'; tlie ilirou.';li Carihheaii Sea, tliis iiiirriraiie enteied iipmi
tlie coast \'iieatan, on the niiilit of ,luiie 'JTlh. liaviii;: moved over the entire route from
Trinidad to the weslern shore id' the I'.ay of lloiidiiras in a little more than one linn-
rlred hours, a distance of ahoiit seventeen hmidred nautical miles, which is eijiial to
nearly seventeen miles an hour. I h.ive no account ol .''is storm after it crossed the
peninsula of Vmatan, and il is prolialile tliat it did not ayaiii act with violence upon ihn
ocean level. Its course or track to llondiiras was N. 74' W.
Track No. If, is that of the memorahh' hurricane whii h desolated Mariiadoes on the
night of Auijust lOth, 1H;!1. and which passed l'orto-J»ieo on tli^- 1-,Mli. Aus-Cayes, and
St. .laf^o lie Ciihaon the l.Jth, >Iata:i/,as on the 1 Itli, was em oiiiitered off the Tortii;;as
on tire I'jih; in the (uilf of .Afexico on the Jf.tli, and was at Mohile, T'eiisacola, and iNew
^ . I .1 , - , 1- ,•.,.,,., .• 1 . •!_ •. ...1 1 r (> 1 1 ...
L'tllltfl, Wiis 1^, u-l \> ., (M ** . i^. >v . m"iiii>. Ill |/ni.^iiiii^ n^ II, ,1111, III , ,',11-,. , , ,,,..
eaviiif^ the ocean level, it must have encountered the mounlain re.^ion of the Allcga-
lies, and was perhaps disor^'ani/.ed hy tiu; resistance opposed hy these idevation.s. Itap-
lears, however, to have caiiseil heavy rains in a large extent of country lyiiiL; north-east-
Orleans on the ITtli; a distance of -J, (100 nautical miles in ahout l.'jO hours, eijual to
.somethinf; more than 1:5', miles an liour.' Its course, until it crossed the tro|)ic of
f^incer, was N. GV^ \V., or W. N. \V. nearly. In piirsuin,' its northern coiirsi . eftiT
u • • • ■ ■ ■ •. . .1 ... 1- .1 .
nles.
pei
ward of the iriiK of Mexico.
Track No. Ill, is tliat of the destructive hurricane which swept over the Windward
Islands on the 17th of Auuust, 1^-27 ; visited St. iNIartin's and St. Thomas on tlie 18th;
passed the north-east roast of llayti on the l')tli ; Turks' Tslaiid on the •JOlli ; the Ba-
nania.s on tlie 'I'lst and 'J-Jd ; was encountered oil" the coast of I'lorida and South Caro'iiia
on 23d and 24tli ; olf Cape llaiteras on the -i.jth: oil' the Delaware on the 2()th ; off
Nantucket on the 27111; and ofl' Sahle Island, and the I'orpoise J'aiik, on the 2Hth. Its
ascertained course and progress is nearly .'J, 000 miles, f in ahout eleven days; or, at the
average rate of aliotit eleven miles an lioiir. The direction of its loutc; hefore crossing
the tropic, may be .set down at N. 61° W., and in hit. 40° while movini; eastward, at
N. 58° E.
Track No. TV, i.s that of the extensive hurricane of Septemhei-, 1804. It swept over,
the Windward Islands on tlie lid of that month; the X'irgiii Islands and Porto-Rico on
the 4th; Turks' Island on the .^tJi; the i?ahai!ias and gulf id' Florida on tlic fith; the
coast of Georgia and tlie f'aiolinas on the 7th ; tlie great liays of Chesapeake and Dela-
w-.re, and the contiguous portions ol \'irgiiiia, iMarylaiid, and New .lersey, on tlie 8th;
and the states of iMassaehiisctts, New Hampshire and Maine on the !)tli ; being on the
highlands of New Hampshire, a violent snow-storm. Tlie destructive action of this storii'
was widely extended on both sides of tlie track indicated u])on the chart, and the same
fact pertains, in a greater or less degree, to the other storms herein iiientioiied. It ap-
pears to liave passed from IMartiiiieo, and the other Windward Islands, to Boston in
Massachusetts, by the usual curvilinear route, in about six days; a distance of morp'
than 2,200 miles, at an average progress of about 1.5 .'j miles perhour.
Track No. V, represents the i-oute of the hurricane which ravaged tlie islands of An-
tigua, Nevis, and St. Kitt's, on the afternoon and niglit of August 12th, 1R.S5; Saint
Thomas, St. Croix, and Porto-Bico on the I.'3tli ; Hayti and Turks' Island on the 14th ;
the vicinity of Matanzas and Havana on the 15th; was encountered otfthe Tortugas in
^
* Mr. Purdy states that this gale was felt at Natches, 300 milefl up the Mississippi,
t All the distances are expressed in nautical miles.
702
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
the gulf of Mexico on the Kith; in Int. '^7° 21, Ion. 04'', and other points on tlip ];||,
and IHtli ; and also at Mctanioia on the coast of Mexico (lat. 2()° OA) on tlie IHtli, «||,',.,,
it was most violent dnrina; tlie sncceedini; nii;lit.* This stoiin is iTniarka!)le, as iMiivii|(r
more directly, and farther to the west, than is usual for storms whicli pass ricm- ilC
West Iiulia Islands, it havinj; reached the shores of Mexico hefore ccinnionciiii; k
sweep to the iu)rlhward. Its course, so I'ar as known, is N. 7.')'^ W. Its progress, nn.n
than 12,'iOO miles in G days, which is nearly c(|ual to lo.j miles jier hour.
Track No. VI, is tliat of the mein(Hal)!e <;ale of AuL'usf, IF.'in. which, passing eln«f
by the Windward Islands, visited St. Thomas' on the I'Jth; was near 'J'urks' Islnndoc
the 13th; at the Bahamas on the 11th ; on tlie i;ulf and coast of Florida on the ].")i|i;
along the coast of (leorgia and the ('arolinas on the l()ih; oil' Virginia, Maryland. Nen
Jersey, and New York on thi- 17th ; olftJeorge's ]]ank and C'ape Sable on the IStlcamj
over the I'orpoise and Xewfonndlaiid Haiiiis on the llJlh of the sanu' montli : liavip'
ocenpied about seven d;iys in its a-iccrtained c'lurse from near the Windward Islands.^
distance <d" more than ;i(l(l() miles — the; rate of its jirogress being etpial to ]H miles .m
liour.f If we sup|)ose the actu,d velocity of the wind, in its rotary movement, to U
five times greater than this rate of progress, which is not beyond the known velociivof
such winds, it will be found ecpial, in this period, to a rectiliiu'ar course of 15.0(111 ihJIk
The same remark applies, in substance, to all the storms which are passing under wi;
review. Wliat strongerevidence of the rotative action can be re(|uired, than is afl'ordcd
by lliis single consideration .'
Route No. \'II is that cd'an extensive gale, or hurricane, which swept over tlipwpsi.
ern Atlantic in 1H:!(), and which was encotiiitered to the northward of tlie West India
Islands on the •J')th of September. It passed on a more eastern route than am Hiiich
we liave occasion to describe, to the vicinity of the grand I'ank of Newfoundland, wliere
it was found on the L'd of Octcdier, having caused great damage and destruction on its
widely extended track, to the many vessels which fell on its way. Its course is qnjip
analogous to that which we have considered as having been probably jiiirsned bv ilip
hurricane of October . 'id, l".'-'!). The ascertained route may be estimated at IsOfl iiiilfs,
and tlie average progress ol' the storm at "jr) miles an hour.
Route, No. Vill, is that of a much smaller but extremely violent hurriraiip, Mhirli
was encountered o(V Tuiks' Island on the 1st of September 1H21; to the nortliwnrdof
the Bahamas and near the lat. of .■"!()° on the 2d ; and on the coast of the Cavnlinas cur-
ly in the morning of the ."Jd ; and from thence, in the course of that day, alonjtlie sea
coast to New-York and Long Island ; and which, on the night following, coiitiinied it<
course across the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Mniiip.
We are not in jiossession of accounts by which its fartlier jirngress can be successfully
traced. I The diameter of tliis storm appears not to have greatly exceeded 1011 miles:
its ascertained route and progress, is about If 00 miles in (>() hours; equal to ,30 niilesau
hour.
The last mentioned route may also be considered to be nearly the same as lliatofa
similar, but less violent storm, which swept along the same portion of the coast of tli'!
United States on the S.-^tli of Ajiril, 18;!5.
No. IX, represents the route of a violent and extensive hurricane, which was en-
countered to the northward of Turks' Island on the 22d of August, 18.30; nnitliwarii
of the Bahamas on the 2;}d ; ;: i olF the coast of the United States on the 24tli, 'M
and 26th of the same month.
Much damage was done on the ocean by this storm; but it scarcely reached tk
American shores. Its duration off this coast, was about 40 hours, and its progress ap-
pears to have been more tardy than that of some other storms.
No. X, represents the track of a violent hurricane and snow-storm, whicli swept alon;
the American coast from the lat. of 'MP N. on the 5th and Gth of December, 18;!0.
* Since the above was written, if is apccrtnined that this storm nlso passed over Galveston B"
on the coast of Texas, where the hurricane blew with violence fiom the luirlli-cast, wliileat-
tnouth of the Mississippi and along the nortbcrn shores of the cnlf, the trale was not frit. SiicliM ■
appear quite sufficient to overthrow the bj'poihcsis of Franklin relntiiiii; to norlhc-rast storms. :::
«ire eijually fatal to the more common theories. At Galveston this storm, in jmssing over, vir;
■by east to the south-east ; the rationale of which may bo made evident by drawing a lineilir-fi
the northern side of the figure on the chart, pnrnllrl to tlie track of the storm. A little furilu'ii-
tention to the figure will also illustrate the jiPiieral character of the northers, whicii arc so coiaon
:on the coast of Mexico dnriner a considerable portion of the year.
t For a more extended notice of this storm, see American .Tonrnal of Science, vol. xx, pp. JW'"'
% The phenomena and progress of this storm have been more fully noticed in Sillinmn'a J"'"''"''
vol. XX, pp. 24 — 27.
1'
The last men
uhich swept ah
violent winter s
tics, as those w
Track No. X
Whicli swept ov
storm »vas very
a limit at prest
and its access w
barometer: .e
portion of ,ic g
gression ol this
by the writer, fr
sea-coasts of N
We have tliii
canes, which h
ent seasons of
approximations
gales are to be (
more, on each s
mated both iiy
tion of its route,
|)ears upon the <
tratc the cours;'
storm, and, also,
cessivcly at vario
the several storm
Storms of this
tent of interior C(
enter, such violei
sweeps back fruii
sufhcient protect!
Jy to neutralize tl
of the hurricane i
the great whirlinsj
of the barometer,
sitions where the
violence. The ai
turn or current ol
sition, appear to c
overlaying stratun
the storm below,
other causes, the
stratum of curreii
velocity of a viole
with its ordinary
such circiimstanc(
Tiie foregoing rei
I tinned observation
It will hardly e>
the chart, apjicars
obvious if we i.iak
course in the high
struck with the tin
degree of latitude,
of :3()° marks the
, perhaps it may no
the surface area, a
larea between this I
I face between the s
I facts the basis of a
A variety of dei
Isotne of which, th
Jmight be out of pk
lany bondage to exis
rs on the irih
lie IHtli.Nvli,,,.,,
il)l<', ;is iMiiviiiit
puss riciir \W
:iimipricins iis
progress, incr«
passing cloje
iirUs' Islnmlnr.
it on the l;'iili;
Miuylnnd, Xe»
1 the IHtli; niii!
noiitli : bavin;
\v;\r(l Islnnils, a
I to ]8 miles rtn
ovptiient, to V
own vel(i(iiv(if
)!"] 5.011(1 mi'K,
^sinc; nndoroii'
tlian is 'iitlurilrt
t over tlip \vf>|.
he West India
llian any wiiirh
iiindland.wiievp
struction niiits
r()iirs(> is (niiti
piirs'.it'il \)\ tlif
d atlSOOiiiiies,
mrricaiic, Mliioli
he nortliwnril of
iC Cavoliiins cur-
', aloiiitho sp;i
:, coiitimioil its
ire. iinil Mi'.ine.
be stu'ccssfully
•ded 1011 miles:
to 30 miles an
nie as lliatofa ^
le coast of tltt
which waspii-
^:',0 ; nnrllnvarfl
the 24th, 25tl;,
My reached lli(
its progress ap'
ich stcept alot.
nber, IPM.
r rtalveston R-
cast, while a!'
t'elt. Siichi;'
.(-ast storms.:
sing over, vtv.
iifT a lineilir .i
\ little t'uritt:'
li are so coid ■'
Inl. xx,pr.3i-''''
lillininn's Jontaali
..fk^iMi^i
BLUNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT. 703
The hist mentioned track also corresponds to that of another storm, of like character,
ubich swept along the sca-( oast on tlie l.'Jtli, lltli, and loth of January, l,S3l. These
violent winter storms exhibit nearly the same phases of wind and general characteris-
tics, as iliose which appear i:i thesiimmer and autumn.
Track No. XI, reinx'sents a portion of tin* general route of the violent inland storm
which swept over the l.-kes Erie and C'ntario on the 11th of November, IS.'Jo. This
storm was very extensive, si)rea(ling from the sea-coast of N'irginia into the Canadas, to
a limit at present unknown. The anterior portion of this gale was but nnxlerately felt,
and its access was noted, chiedy, by the direcliou of the wind, and the great fall of the
barometer: c violence of thestorm being chielly exhibited i)y the posteiiorand colder
portion of ..lo gale, as is common with extensive overland storms. The regular pro-
gression of this storm in an easterly <'irecti(m is clearly established, by facts, collected
by the writer, from the borders of Lake Michigan to the (iiilf of St. Lawrence and the
sea-coasts of New-England and Nova Scotia.
We have thus given a summary description of tlic route of twelve storms, or hurri-
canes, which have visited the Ann-rican coasts and seas, at various jjcriods, and at dill'er-
ent seasons of the year. The lines on the chi.rt, which represent the routes, are but
the centre of the track, or course, of the several storms; and the
j^.in;.-, ,in i,< .»<; .inisidered as extending their rotative circuit from 50 to oOO miles, or
of the delineations; tin; suiicrlicial extent of the storm being esti-
7
%i
approximations to
gales are to be considercMl as extciK
more, on each side
m:
tio
I
iiore, ou eacu sine oi me (ieMnt.tuuMi>i , iiii; .sii[iri uuiui uaiuul ui mc :mimiii uuiiiji esii-
nated both by actual information and by its duration at any point near the central per-
ion of its route, as comijared with its average rate of progress. The figure which ap-
)ears upon the eliarl, on tracks .No. I, \', and \'l!, will serve, in sonn- degree, to illus^
„...« .1 r .1 ■ ,.1 :.. .1 :.... .:...,.. ..c .1... .,...,. ..r'...;.,. i i... .i._
>; i;()ui.s>- 1)1 nil- wiiKi III iiir viii uiii> |jmiiui].-ui the supcrlicics covered by the
and, also, to explain the changes in the direction of the wind which oecu suc-
y at various points, during the regular progress of thi; gale. The dimensions of
trate the course of the wind in the vaiious i^ortion.s
storm, at '
cessively at varuius pt ,, ., ^^ i---,-,
the several storms appear also to liave gradually expanded diu'ing their course.
Storms of this character do not often act with great violence on any considerable ex-
tent of interior country to which they may arrive. Even upon the coasts on which they
enter, such violence is not often ex|)erienced under the posterior limb of the gale which
sweeps back from its circuit over the land, the usual woodlands and elevations being a
sufficient protection. Often, indeed, tlie interior (devati(uis afford such shelter as entire-
ly to neutralize thoelVect of the wind at wwA near the surface, itud the presence and passage
of the hurricane is, in su(di cases, to be noted chiedy by the unusual dej)r(!ssion, which
the great wliirling iiu)venicnt of the incumbent stratiini of air produces in theneicury
of the barometer, which thus indicates the presence or passage of the hurricane, in po-
sitions where the force of the wind is not felt at all, o.' only witli a moderate degree of
violence. The iu'tion of these storms appears, indeed, to be iit /irst confined to the stra-
tum or current ol'air moving iiexttlie earth's surface, and they seldom, while in this po-
^ sition, appear to exceed :i mile or so in altitude; and the course of the next highest or
I overlaying stratum does not, in these cases, seem to be at all affected by the action of
I the storm below. Du;ing the jirogress, however, by the influence of high land and
other causes, the storms often become translerre<l, in whole or in |)art, to the ne :: Ii'tyher
: stratum of current. Thus we sometimes see a stratiiiu of cloiuls moving with lie full
; velocity of a violent storm, while the stratum of surface wind is nearly at rest, or moves
with its ordinary velocity; and thus, also, it happens that balloons, ascending under
' such circumstances, are carried forward with a velocity of from GO to 100 miles an hour.
.The foregoing remarks are by no means hyiiothetieal, but are the result of long con-
ktinued observation and iiKiuiry.
It will hardly escape notice that the track of nuisi of the Imrricanes, as presented on
the chart, appears to form part of an elliptical or parabolic circuit, and this will be more
obvious if we make correction, in each case, for the slight distortion of the apparent
course in the higher latitudes, which is jiroduced by tlie plane projection. We are nisa
struck with the fact that the vertex of the curve is uniformly found on or near the 30fh
■ degree of latitude. In connection with this fact it may also lie noted, that the latitude
of 30° marks the external limit of the trade winds, on both sides of the equator; and
perha|)s it may imt prove irrelevant to notice, even further, that by the parallel of GO®
I he surface area, as well as the atmosphere, of each hemisphere, isequally divided ; the
, area between this latitude and the equator being about eipial to that of the enfire'sur-
t l:ice betweeii the same latitude and the pole. It is not int(>n(led. however, to make these
v,^ facts the basis of any theoretical inductions on the present occasion.
I A variety of deductions may be drawn from the general facts which we have stated
iisome of which, though deeply interesting to the iihilosopher and votary of science,'
Imight be out of place in a nautical work of this description. For ourselves, we disclaim
lany bondage to existing theories in meteorology ; and shall on the present occasion, only
M
704
BLUJNT's AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
r
proceed to notice a few of tlin more practical inferonces which, to navigators and otlierj
may, i)erlia[)s, be of no tloulitfui utility.
1. A vessel bound to the eastward between the latitudes of 32° and 45° in the westPrn
part of the Atlimtie, on being overtaken by a gale which conunences blowing from any
point to the eastward of S. 10. or K. S. E. may avoid some portion of its violence, U-
puttin;,' her head to tlie northward, and when tlie gale has veered sufficiently in tlit
same direction, may safely resume her course. But by standing to the soutliward under
like circumstances, she will probably fall into the heart of the storm.
2. In the same region, vessels, on taking a gale from S. E. or points near thereto, will
jirobably soon find themselves in the hi.'art of the storm, and after its first fury is spent, mav
ex|)eet its recurrence from the opposite quarter. The most promising mode of niiij.
gating its violence, and at the same time sliortening its duration, is to stand to the soutli-
ward upon the winrl, as long as may be necessary or possible ; and if the movemem
succeeds, the wind will gradually head you off in the same direction. If it becomes
necessary to heave too, and the wind does not veer, be prepared for a blast fromihe
north-west.
3. In the same latitudes a vessel scudding in a gale, with the wind at east ornonii-
east, shortens it duration. On the contrary, a vessel scudding before a south-westerlv
or westerly gale, will iheicby inereasi; its duration.
4. A vessel wliicli is pmsuiiig her course to the westward or south-westward, in this
part of the Atlantic, meets the storms in their course, and thereby shortens the pirioil?
of their occurrence; and will encounter more gales in an ecjual number of dajs, iliat
if stationary, or sailing in a difil-rent direction.
5. On the oilier hand, vessels while sailing to the eastward or north-eastward, or in
the course of the storms, will lengthen the jieriods between their occurrence, and con-
secpiently experience them hjss freijuently than vessels sailing on a dhterent course. The
dill'erenee of exposure \. hich results from these oj)posite courses, on the American coast,
may in most eases be estimated as nearly two to one".
6. The hazard from casualties, and of eonseciuenee the value of insurance, is enhanced
or diminished by the direction of the passage, as shown under the two last head;-.
7. As the ordinary routine of the winds and weather in these latitudes, often corres-
ponds to the phases which are exhibited by the storms as before described, a correct
opinion, founded upon this resemblance, can often be formed of the approaching changes
of wind and weather, which may be highly useful to the observing navigator.
8. It will be perceived from the foregoing facts, that the occurrence of astormata
particular locality, has no immediate coniieenon with astronomical periods, suchasllie
changes of the moon, or the time of the ecpiinoxes.
9. A due consideration of the facts which have been stated, particularly those under
our twelfth head, will inspire additional confidence in the indications of the baromeUr^
and these ought not to be neglected, even should the fall of the mercury be unattended
by any appearances of violence in the weather, as the other side of the gale will be pret-
ty sure to take effect, and olten in a maimer so sudden and violent as to more thali com-
pensate for its previous forbearance. Not the least reliarice, however, should be placed
upon the prognostics, which are usually attached to the scale of the barometer, such as
Sot-Fair, Fair, Change, Rain, &;c.as in this region at least, they serve no other purpose
than to bring this valuable instrument into discredit. It is the mere rising and falliDj
tjf the mercury, which chielly deserves attention, and not its bonformity to a particular
point in the scale of elevation.
l(j. These practical inferences ap])ly in terms, chiefly to storms which have passbdto
the northward of the oOth degree of latitude on the American Coast, but with the neces-
' %ary modification as to the point of the compass, which results from the westerly coursf
pursued by the storm while in the lower latitudes, are, for the most part, equally appli-
bable to the storms and hurricanes which occur in the West Indies, and south of ikf
Jjarallel of 30°. A's the marked occurrence of temjiestuous weather is here lessfe
quent, it may be sufficient to not'ee that the direction of the winds of the West Indi"
seas, is from 8 to II points of the compass more to tlie left than on the coast of the lu-
ted States in the latitude of New-York.
Vicissitudes of winds and weather on this coast which do not conform to the forep
ing sppcilicalions, are more freipient in April, May, and ,lune, than in other ir.oniL*.
At this season it is not uncommon to lind a regular current of easterly wind prevaij
'for many days, prodncing somi'times heavy rains, and always an elevated state ofM
barometer. Easterly or southerly winds under which the barometer rises, or maiiiBio'
its elevation, are not of a gyratory or stormy character; but such winds frequentljt«-
niinate in the falling of the barometer and the usual phenomena of an easterly storm.
The typhoons and storms of the China sea and eastern coast of Asia, appear tot"
gators and others
BLUNT S AMERICAN COAST PILOT.
705
similar in character to the hurricanes of the West Indies and the storms of this coast,
when prevailing in the same latitudes. There is reason to believe that the great circuits
of wind, of which the trade winds form an integral part, are nearly uniform in all the
great oceanic basins ; and that the course of these circuits and of the stormy gyrations
which they may contain, is, in the southern hemisphere, in a counter direction to those
north of the equator, producing a corresponding difference in the general phases of storms
and winds in the two hemispheres.
From the foregoing results we infer the value and importance of correct marine re-
ports relating to violent gales. Those reports should always comprise the date, the latin
iude and longitude, and the principal direction and changes of the wind.
§9
t08
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.
[IViis Tahlc contains the Latitudes and Lonoitudks of the most remarkable Har-
bors, IsUinds, Shoals, Capes, S^c. in this work, fyunded on the latest and most accurate
Astronomical Observations, Surveys, and Charts.]
The Longitudes are reckoned from the Meridian of Greenwich.
I. — Newfoundland.
Cape Norman
Cupe Bauld
Griguet Bay — East point...
White Cape, near St. Lu-
nairc Bay
Lat.
D.
■A
M.
37 N
U 38
51 3a
51 311
>1 2ii
■)1 ai
jl 18
)1 17
U 20
51 12
U 2
50 58
50 48
.'50 54
50 42
50 3l>
50 31
50 22
.)0 U
50 7
49 57
-■>() 9
50 6
Needles Rociis, ncarBrahn5l 2G
Braha Shoal (G ft.)
Cape St. Anthony
Cremallicre Cove ; en. E. i)t.
Goose Cape ; S. E. point...
Home Harbor; en. vV. point
Fishot Isles ; Northern Isle
Croque Harbor; entrance .
Groais Isle ; N. E. point
Southern Belle Isle; N.E. pt.
Rouge Isle; N. point
Canada Bay; entrance ....
Hooping Harbor ; entrance
Fourchet Harbor; ent
Orange Bay; entrance
Little Harbor-deep Head...
Cat-head, extremity
Coney Arm Head
Partridge Point
Fleur de Lis Harbor ; E. pt.
St. Barbs, or Horse Isles;
S. E. point
Pacquet Harbor; entrance
Sa Scie Harbor ; entrance.
Promontory of St. John ;
North Bill
Middle Cape
South Bill
St. John's Gull Isle
Bishop's Rock
Nipper's Isles ; S. E. point
CutwelljHarbor ; E. point.
Triton Harbor ; entrance...
Fortune Harbor ; N.W. pt.
Toulinguet Harbor ; N. ent
Change Isles ; N. E. Islet...
Fpgo Harbor ; E. entrance
Caps Fogo ; S. E. extremity
Ireland rock, always breaks
Inspector rock, sometimes
breaks
Snapjoek, of 10 feet
Funk Island ; Escape or E.
point
Green Island in Rocky Bay
Ragged Point
Oeadman's Point
Outer Cat Island
Freels' Gull Island
Charge Rock [6 feet]
Stinking Islands
Fool's Island, off the N. W,
Arm
Shoe Cove Point
Off Gooseberry Island
IVIalone's Rock
50 11
19 58
49 58
49 59
19 57
49 56
49 59
49 55
49 47
19 37
49 33
49 32
49 36
49 42'
19 44
49 39
49 52
49 47
19 54
Long,
D. M.
55 48W
')5 20
55 21
55 22
55 23
55 20
55 25
')5 3;)
J5 31
i5 51
55 34
55 41
27
55
55 42
56
56
56 11
56 21
)6 27
56 34
)6 40
56 3
56 2
37
55 45
55 31
55 25
55 23
55 23
55 16
55 21
55 46
55 34
55 31
55 10
54 41
54 18
54 17
53 55
53 58
53 51
53 38
49 44
53 7
49 29
54 7
49 30
53 54
19 25
53 37
49 23
53 32
49 19
53 21
49 18
.53 17
49 14
53 16
49 9
53 30
49 5
53 31
48 58
53 27
48 53
53 25
Grcnt Black Island, centre
Little Denier Island
Western Head
Southern Head
Young Harry Reef.
Bonavista, Gull Island
North Head, Catnlina
South Head, Cntalina
Horse Chops
Entrance of Trinity Harbor
Bonaventiirc Head
Hiicaliuu, N. point of
Cape St. Francis
St. John's Church
Cape Spear
Bull Head
Cape Broyle, N. point of ...
Cape Ballard ,
Cape Race
VIRGIN ROCKS
Cape Pine
St. Mary's Cupe
Placentia Harbor
Little Southern Harbor ....
Extremity of Placentia Bay
Bordeaux Harbor
Cape Chapeaurouge
St. Pierre, hghthouse
Cajjc Miquelon
Connaigre Shoal
Pass Island
Cape La Hune
Outer Penguin Island
Eclipse Island
Cape Ray
Cape St George
South Head ,
Cow Head
Point Ferrolle
Anchor Point
Lat.
D. M.
48 SON
48 41
48 37
48 37
48 48
48 43
48 32
48 28
18 21
48 21
18 16
18 9
17 48
17 35
47 31
17 18
17 4
46 47
46 40
16 27
16 .37
46 49
17 15
47 44
47 50
47 45
46 51
46 47
47 8
47 24
47 29
47 32
47 22
47 36
47 37
48 29
49 6
49 55
51 1
51 14
Long.
D. M.
53 32W
J3 31
33 22
53 l(j
52 58
52 5!)
5()
1
8
33 17
■)3 18
.")2 45
52 44
3i)
52 33
52 41
.12 47
52 53
53 8
■)0 .57
53 30
■)4 9
53 55
53 55
.33 57
52 58
55 29
56 14
56 19
55 57
56 11
56 50
56 58
57 3G
59 21
.59 14
58 21
57 51
57 6
156 46
II. — JMbrador and Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Lat.
D. M.
Leveret Islet, at the en-
trance of Netshucktoke,
or Sandwich Bay 53 51
Wolflsland, N.end '.53 45
Spotted Island, N. E. end . 53 31
Round Hill Island
llawke Island, S. E. point.
Cape St. Michael
Cape St. Francis
Point Spear
Cape St. Louis
Cape Charles Island
Belle Island ; N. E. point..'.
S. W. point.
Long.
D. M.
Yi." Point....
Barge Point...
Forteau Point .
53 25
53 4
52 47
52 37
52 32
.52 26
.52 17
52 1
51 52
51 55
51 48
51 27
N^SG 32 w
|55 37
155 27
55 21
55 26
55 27
55 24
55 21
55 20
.55 17
.55 11
55 20
55 43
56 3
56 55
I ^ ,
I '^
I ?
E ^
a
Kichib
St. M
West
Cape
■^
Halifa
^
East I
BearC
Hillsb
ISLE
N.
We
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.
707
^at.
Long.
M.
0. M.
SON
53 32 W
41
53 31
37
53 22
37
53 lb'
48
52 58
43
52 5!)
32
52 5(;
28
53 1
21
53 g
21
53 17
1«
53 \ii
9
52 45
48
52 44
35
52 3!)
31
52 33
18
52 41
4
52 47
47
52 53
40
53 8
27
50 57
37
53 30
49
54 9
15
53 55
44
53 55
50
53 57
45
52 58
51
55 29
47
56 14
8
56 19
24
55 57
29
56 11
32
56 50
22
56 58
3(i
57 36
37
59 21
29
59 14
6
58 21
55
57 51
1
57 6
14
56 46
't, Lawrence.
t.
Long.
M.
D. M.
51 N
56 33w
45 |55 37
31 155 27
25 55 21
4 55 26
47 55 27
37
55 24
32
55 21
26
55 20
17 .
55 17
1 .
55 11
52 .
55 20
55 ;
)5 43
18 [
)6 3
11 i
)6 55
I Luc. Lung.
[ !d. m. d. m.
Green Isle, without Bradoiel
; Hnrbor 51 25N57 12W
Great Mecatiiia Point 50 44 58 59
Cape Whittle, S. W. Island!
j off. '50 II 60 10
JKogashka River entrance .|50 12 ;fjl 19
(Mingan Settlement 50 18 i64 5
lPointde9MontsLighthousu!49 20 67 26
,St. Nicholas Harbor, W.pt. 49 18 :67 50
.Vlanicouagan Point, S. E.
extreme ...49 6 68 16
Bersimis River, 8. E. point
of entrance 48 53 68 40
Jeremy Island, Hudson's
I Bay Post US .53 68 50
tPortNeuf Church 48 37 69 9
I Brandy Pots, S. E. point... 47 52 69 44
, River Saguenay, N.W. store
' at the entrance 48 9 69 46
Isle Aux Coudres 47 25 |70 11
CiuEBEC. Bastion of Citadel. 46 49 j71 16
Gaspe— Ship Hock 48 45 164 12
Magdalen River 49 45 65 22
Matane River, West point. 48 52 !67 34
iLitile Metis Reef 48 41 i68 5
'Bic Island, S. E. Reef 48 25 68 51
^Green Island Lighthouse.. 48 3 69 28
iCrow Island '47 35 69 56
Anticosti Island. I
Kast Point 149 8 16143
:North Point 49 57 164 12
WestPoint ]49 52 j64 35
[South WestPoint 49 24 |63 33
iSoiith Point j49 4 i62 18
iMaudnlen Island N. W. i
! Bird Island U? 50
! N. E. point.. .!47 38
Isle St. Paul 147 13
Cape Hinchinbroks J45 34
Cape Portland 145 48
iLOUISBURGH 45 54
CAPE BRETON
'iScattery Island
IFhnt Island
45 57
46 1
46 9
[Spanish Bay '46 18
46 23
47 2
46*42
46 27
45 58
45 56
45 42
Port Dauphin
^npe North Island .,
Cheticun Harbor ...
Sea Wolf Island ...
Port Hood
fustau Corps Island
GUT OF CANSO, N. en-
trance
Cape St. George or St.Le wis 45 32
Pictou Island
Cape Tormentine
Richibucto Harbor
^
. St. John's Island, (N. Cape)
!;West Point
Cape Egmont
Halifax Bay .'
East Point
Bear Cape ,
Hillsborough Bay' ,
ISLE OF SABLE
N. E. Point
West Point
45 51
46 9
46 44
47 5
46 37
46 28
46 25
46 27
46 3
46 6
43 59
43 57
61 13
61 26
60 11
60 40
60 3
59 55
59 48
59 41
59 48
60 10
60 30
60 27
60 58
61 12
61 35
61 37
61 27
61 55
62 27
63 36
64 36
63 45
64 10
63 51
63 36
61 48
62 12
62 55
59 46i
60 14
Crow Harbor, in Chedabue
to Buy, {Rook I.)
Cranberry Isl, Lighthouse.
Cnpe Canso '45
Canso Harbor.
Northern Entrance
Southern Entrance
Point Gell, near Raspberry
Harbor
Berry Head, on the West
side of Torbay
Cape M(JCodonie, on the 8.
W. of Country Harbor ...
White Point, on the W. side
of Lisconib Harbor
Marie et Joseph
Cnpe Spry
Heron I. near Kepple Harb.
Jedore Head, W. side of Jc-
dore Harbor
Sa.mbro' Lighthouse, near
Halifax Harboii
Holderness Isl. on the S.W.
side of Margaret's Bay...
Green Isl. off Mahone Bay
Cross Island, oO'Luncnburg
Harbor '
Cape Le Have
Port Medway, S.W. head of
Coffins Island Lighthouse,
near Liverpool Harbor...
Mouton or Matoon Island.
Point Hebert
Shelburne or Cape Roseway
Lighthouse ... .
Cape Negro
Cape Sable
Brasil Rock
Seal Island, Souih Point ...
Cape Fourchu, n. Yarmouth
Cape St. Mary
Brier's Island ; Light
Point Prim; Lighthouse en.
of Annapolis Basin
Cape Split, in the Mines
Channel
Capo Chignecto
Apple River, entrance
Cumberland, Fort
St. John's New Bruns., Pt.
M ispeck, on the E. side
Lat.
D. M.
45 21 N
45 194
18
45 21
45 20
45 13
45 11
45 5
44 59
14 57
14 48
44 44
44 42
44 30
44 34
44 27
44 23
44 15
44 10
44 5
43 57
43 51
43 40
43 32
43 26
43 94
43 23
43 51
44 12
44 20
44 45
45 22
45 22
45 27
45 50
45 18
Long.
D. M.
61 15W
60 584
60 57
61 00
60 57
61 3
61 19
61 40
61 59
62 2
62 33
62 41
63 4
63 31
63 55
63 58
64 5
64 17
64 29
64 35
64 42
64 51
65 12
65 17
65 34
65 29
65 58
66 10
66 14
66 19
65 45
64 20
64 49
64 43 '•
64 8
65 58
III. — Coast of the United States of America'
ENTRANCE of St. Croix
River
Island of Campo.Bello, N.
point
Wolf Islands, northernmosl
Quaddy Head Light
Grand Manan, N. E. head
S.W. head
Libby Island Light, en.
Machias Bay ,
Titmanan Light
Mount Desert Rock, Light-
house
L au Haut, S. W. point....
Lat.
D. M.
45 00 N
44 57
44 574
44 474
44 45
44 34
44 33
44 21
43 50
43 .59
Long.
D. M.
67 2W
66 55
66 43
66 68
66 45
66 53
67 22
67 49
68
68
64
344J
708
LATITUPES AND LONGITUDES.
Lut.
D. M.
41 7iN
U 17}
41 12
41 18i
t). M.
71 3,-Jw
71 fWJ
72 9
72 8
71 54
72 41
72 SiiJ
73 7
73 8
73 24;
74 IJ
I
55
Cnatine ...in <
jMatinicus Island Light
Wooden Bald Kock
Manheigin Island Light....
Penmaquid Point Light —
Bantum Ledge
Seguin Island Light
Brunswick.....! n
Cape Small Point
Caslie's Ledge, shoalcst pari
PORTLAND Lighthouse .
Cape Elizabeth, (twohghts)
Wood Island Light, en-
trance Saco River
Agamenticus Hills
Cape Porpoise
Bdd Head
Cape Keddock Nubble ..
Boon Island Light
PORTSMOUTH Light..
Isle of Shoals White I. Light
Portsmouth......
Great Boar's Head *<*.
NEWBURYPORT Lights,
on Plumb Island
Ipswich Entrance^ Ht.
Squam L'ght :'.
CAPE ANN Lights, on
Thatcher's Island
Eiustern Point, Cape Ann
Harbor
Lighthouse on .'''liker's Isl.
Beverly
SALEM
Marblehead
Nahant Point, N. E. point
of Boston Harbor
Boston Lighthouse
BOSTON Statehouse
Cambridge
Soiluate Light
Plymouth Lights
Race Point Light
CAPE COD Light
Chatham Lights
.Monomoy Point Lighthouse
Shoa!8 of St. George's
Great i3hoal, S. E. P
Great Shoal, W, P
N. E. Point
Great North Shoal
Great Third Shoal
Great East Shoal
NANTUCKET Light,
Sandy Point
Sanooty Head
Nantucket South Shoal
Cape Poffe (Vineyard).
Gay Head Liglithuse .
No Man's Land ,
Cutterhunk I. Light, S. W.
point
New Bedford
New Bedford Lighthoi.ise..
Seaconnet Point
NEWPORT
Rhode Island Lighthouse..
Providence Col
Point Judith Lighthouse ..
Block Island Lights
Lut
M. D.
44 22 J N
43 48^
43 51
43 44
43 48
43 42
43 40i
43 5-^J
43 40
43 2
43 35i
43 33
43 27
43 13
43 21
43 13
43 10
43 8
43 3
42 58
43 4i
42 56
42 49
42 42
42 41
42 39
42 35
42 33
42 33
42 32
42 30^
42 26
42 20
42 21
42 22
42 12
2
42
42
1
4i
3
41 41
41 34i
41 34
41 42
41 48
141 53
41 ol
j4l 47
41 23
41 16
41 4
41 25
41 20
41 14
41 24i
41 38
41 35
41 ?7
41 29
41 26i
41 49
41 22i
41 13
Long.
M. D
68 45 W
68 51
68 4'-?
69 15
69 2Si
69 a:i
69 4 1
69 56
69 48i
69 6
70 11
70 lOi
<o
70 18i
70 41
70 25
70 34
70 35
70 29
70 43
70 37i
70 45
70 48
70 49
70 46
70 40
70 34
70 39
70 48
70 54
70 54
70 52
70 56
70 54 J
71 5
71 8
70 43
70 36
70 Hi
70 4
69 57
70 00
67 40
67 59
67 47
67 43
67 26
67 19
70 3
69 58
69 55
70 27
70 52
70 50i
55
13i
70 59
70 56i
70
71
71 21
26^
71 26
71 30i
71 37i
Block Islano, S. E. point.
Watch Hill Lighthouse
Little Gull Liglithousc ....' .
New London Lighthouse...
MONTOCK POINT, east
end L. Island Lighthouse
Fclkiind Island Light ,...,<
NEW HAVEN Lighthouse-
Stratford Point Light .......
Old Field Point Light
Eaton's Point Light
NEW YORK City Hall...
Sandy Hook Light
Neversink Lights
Bartipgat Inlet
Great Egg Harbor
Cape May Light
Ligiithouse on Cupe Hen-
lopen
PHILADELPHIA
4
'^1
41
41
41
41
40 58^
40 57i
40 42i
40 27i
40 24
.19 47
39 19
38 57
'^ Smith's Island Light
g iCape Charles
^ ICape Henry Light
■^ Norfolk
Old Point Comfort
Yorktown
Petersburgh
RICHMOND
vVAsHINGTON City
BALTIMORE
Annapolis, Mar
Currituck Inlet
^ CAPE HATTERAS..
a Deep Soundings off do.
Ocrncock Inlet
CAPE LOOKOUT
Deep soundings off do...
Old Toppail Inlet
Beaufort
Wilmington
Brunswick
Sinithville
New Inlet
CAPE FEAR
Doep soundings off* do.
GEORGETOWN
Georgetown Lighthouse
Cape Roman
CHARLESTON
Charleston Lighthouse..
North Eddisto Inlet
REAOFORT, (S. C.) ..
jPort Royal Entrance, (Bar)
Tvbee Light ..
>;avannah
■It. Catharine's Sound,(Bar)
Sapello Bar
ciDoboyBar
I P j Light on St. Simon's Island.
S. point
Brunswick
!^t. Andrew's Sound
S. Point Cumberland Isl-
and (Light)
;^ Amelia Island, South point
River St. John's, (General'?
Mount)
St. Augustine Lighthouse .
Cape Canaveral
Outer breakers off do
38 47
39 57
.37 13
37 1
36 56
36 51
37 00
37 13
.37 14
37 32
38 53
39 17
38 59
36 33
35
35
35
14
6
5i
34 37
,34 Sti
,34 41
.34 43
,34 14
34 2
33 54
35 56
33 48
33 35
33 22
33 7i
33 00
,32 46
32 40
32 32
.32 25
32 9
,32 00
32 "4
31 41
31 32
31 20
31 8
31 8
31 00
"O 45
30 30
30 26i
29 52i
28 18
28 20
7
74 35
74 58
75
75
75 52
76
76
76 19
76 221
76 34
77 25
77 27
77 3
76 39
76 33
75 :,
75 30
75 59
76 33
76 40
76 40
77 58
77 58
78 1
77 55
77 57
79 9
79 1
79 14
79 49
79 43
80 2
80 32
80 28
80 42
80 58
81 3
81 7
81 16
81 29
81 35
81 32
81 37
81 35
81 33
81 25
80 33
80 13
LATlllDES AND LOXdItUDES.
709
it. iCutijr'
Lui
D. M. If). M
^1 TiNbl 3.^ J,
il 17}
41 12
11 18i
41 4
41 12;
11 ui
11 9|
m 58^
(0 57i
10 42i
10 27i
\0 24
19 47
19 19
18 57
18 47
19 57
7 13
7 7
6 56
6 51
00
13
14
32
53
17
59
33
14
6
5i
37
71 5-11
72 9
72 8
71 54
72 41
72 55j
3
73
3
74
74
74
74
74 35
74 58
7
8
2.1}
7
73
75
75 52
76 2
76
6
i
Sri
41
43
14
2
54
56
48
35
22
00
46
40
32
25
9
00
4
41
i-2
20
8
8
10
4
19
76 22}
6 34
77 25
77 27
77 3
76 39
76 33
75 :.
75 30
75 59
76 33
76 40
76 40
77 58
77 58
78 1
77 55
77 57
79 9
79 1
79 14
79 -19
79 43
80 2
80 32
80 28
80 42
80 58
81 3
81 7
81 16
81 29
81 35
81 32
5
81 37
0
81 35
H
81 33
H
81 25
i
80 33
>
80 13
I n
I D.
a Tortiilasor ITummocka 27
^ Hillsborough Island, N. P.. 27
,1 i Hillsborough Island, S. P. . 27
*< iMouni Pelade or Buld Head 27
"^•Greenville's Inlet 96
Cooper's Hill 26
Sand Hills ^6
New Inlet 26
Middle River entrance 26
CAPE FLORIDA Light... 25
Ca,V() Largo, N, E. point ... 25
Key Tuvernier 24
Old Matacunibe.S.W. point 24
Cayo iSonibrero 24
Looe Key 24
Samboes Keys (centre) 24
Key West, S. W. point ....24
Sand Key, Cayo Arena.... j24
Tortugas islands and Banks!
N. E. part 24
— N. W. part ....'. 24
S. E. part 24
S. W. part 24
at.
M.
.35 N
32
14
1
•17
42
32
18
8
41
19
59
50
37
33
28i
31
26
Bush Key Light 24
Key Vucas 24
F-'ey Axi i24
Cape Sable ;2.5
Cape Romano 25
Boca Grande ent. B. Carlos 26
Spirito Santo Bay, entrance 27
Anclote Keys 28
•^t. Mark's Lighthouse '30
^ I -t. Mark's de Apalachy... .30
£"•, Southwest Cape 29
Cupe St. George 29
Capo St. Bias 29
St. Joseph's Bay, entrance. 29
St. Andrew's Bay, entrance!
Main Pass....'. 30
St. Rosa's Bay, entrance... 30
PENSACOLA, Town ....j.lO
Pen.eacola, Bar 30
Mobile Point, Light 30
Mobile Point, Bar l30
MOBILE 30
Massacre Island, W. pointl30
Ship Island, S. W. point.. .J30
Chandelier Islands, N. poinl!30
S. point Falos Island. 29
Key Breton, N. E. point ... 29
MISSISSIPPI River Pass
a I'ontre 29
The Balize 29
S. E. Pass ;...|29
— — S. Pass [28
S.W 28
NEW ORLEANS b
^
Barrataria
Bayou La Fourche
Timbalier Island, (Tonba.
lier) N. W. point
Derniere Isle, \V. point ....
Bayou Decartes, entrance .
Point au Per
Rabbit Island
Sabine River,. entrance ....
Galveztown entrance
5
27
28
21
16
13
45
15
15
2
41
29
12
6
6
57
57
57i
I7i
6
Long.
D. .M.
80 30 W
80 18
11
11
2
3
3
80 00
80 00
80 20
HO 22
HO 37
HO 52
81 15
81 31
81 45
HI 55
81 59
41 182
39 :83
36 |86
35 ,83
36 83
37 81
57 181
1 ;8i
42 81
42 '82
35 82
25 !83
!84
i84
52 ,84
35 [85
39 i85
55 [85
00
12
7
9
48
15
40
30
39
42
48
26
43
46
,85 56
1^6 42
87 22
87 27
88 10
|88 10
i88 13
88 32
89 3
88 53
88 57
j89 13
i89 5
'89 7
'89 2
89 10
89 29
90 9
90 11
90 20
29 4
90 38
28 59
91 6i
29 12i
91 35i
29 \^
91 52
29 29
92 8
29 37
94 13
29 15
95 5
IV'. — Islands in the West Indies,
55 -
2
55
TRINIDAD,
Spanish Town
Icaquc Point...
Point Galole ...
Point (Jalera...
Tobago, N. E. point
iS. W. point
Grenada, N. E. point
Point Salinua, S.W.pt
Grenada Bank, Middle
Barbndocs, S. P
E. P. do
Bridgetown
N. Point
St. Vincent's, N. point... .
S. point
St. Lucia, S. point
N. point
Martinico, S. E. point
Diamond Rook
Port Royal
Macouba Point ,
Dominica, South point
N. point
The Saint's I., S.W.poi t
Marigalante, N. point
S. point
Guadalonpe, S. W. point...
N. W. point
N. E. point
Poinf Chateaux, S. E.
Deseada, N. point
Antigua, E. point
S. W. point
Montserraf, S. P
N. point.
Redondo Island
Nevis, Charleston
St. Christophers or St. Kitts.
S. E. point
— N. point
"^t. Eustatia Town
Saba ...;
Aves or Bird's I
Barbuda, N. point
St. Bartholomew, E. point,
St. Martin's, E. point
Angui'ia, S. W. points
Anguilleta, N. E. point....
Prickly Pear
Isle of Dogs, Western
Sombrero
St. Croix or St. Cruz, E. pt.
S. W. point
Anegndo, S. P. of Shoal ...
— W.P
Virgin Gorda, E. P
Torto'n, E. P
— W.P
''t. .John's
t. Thomas
Bird Key
'^erpent I., E. part
Crab I., E. part
Cape St. .Tohn or N. E.
PORTO RICO
Point Bruquen or N W.
Point St. Francisco
Lat.
D. M.
10 39 iN
10 4
10 10
10 50
11 20
11 6
12 13
11 59
11 55
13 4
13 10
13 5
13 20
13 22
13 8
13 41
14 6
14 23
14 25
14 36
14 54
15 13
15 .38
15 52
16 2
15 51
15 57
16 19
16 30
16 13
16 20
17 5
17 2
16 41
16 50
16 56
17 7
17 14
17 24
17 29
17 38
15 50
17 47
17 54
18 4
18 10
18 17
18 20
18 19
18 38
17 48
17 40
18 35
18 45
18 30
18 27
18 25
18 22
18 21
18 15
18 19
18 10
18 24
18 29
18 31
18 21
Long.
D. M.
61 34 W
61 57
61 00
60 56
60 33
60 52
61 37
61 51
62 00
59 38
59 29
.59 41
59 42
61 15
61 14
61 1
61 1
60 55
61 5
61 9
^.1 14
61 25
61 29
6' 44
61 18
61 19
61 48
61 54
61 3!)
61 13
61 7
61 45
61 58
62 18
62 19-
62 35
63 43
63 41
63 53
63 4
63 18
63 42
62 3
63 51
63 6
63 16
63 00
63 23
63 24
63 39
64 36
64 56
64 12
G4 27
64 31
64 36
64 46
64 43
64 57
64 55
6.-, 21
65 19
65 39
66 9
67 8
67 15
K
710
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.
I
o
s
e
55
Cope Roxo or S. W. point.
Caxa liii Los Mucrios
Point ("oanio
C. Malu Posqua or S. E. P.
IVfonn I., E. point
Moniro Island
Zachuo or Dcsspcho I.
Lat.
I). M.
17 57 N
17 50
17 55
17 59
18 5
18 9
18 24
Cape Engano il8
Saona I., E. pnri
St. Catharine's I
St. Doniinfjo
La Cafalina
Cape Bcata
Altavcla, Rocii off do...,
Cape Jacqiieniei
Island Baca (a Vaclie).
Point Gravois
Cape Tiberon
18
18
18
18
17
17
IS
18
18
18
Navaza Island !l8
Cape Doniia Maria 18
Jeremy 18
Caymito 18
Petit Guavo 18
Leogane 18
PORT-AU-PRINCE 18
I. Gonave, S. E. P 18
N. W. P il8
Pt. St. Mark 19
St. Nicola Mole 119
rortudas, W. P !20
— E. p jao
CAPE FRANCOIS |l9
Port Dauphin il9
Shoal off M. Chriate '20
\
Monte Christe
Grange Pt
Point Isabella
Old Cape Francois
Cape Samana
Cape Raphael ,
Morant, E. P
KINGSTON
Port Royal
Portland Point
Pedro Bluffs
Black River ,
Savannah la-Mar
Cape Negril, S. point.
N. point
Montego Bay
Falmouth
St. Ann'8
Port Maria
Arnatta Bay
N.E. Point
Worant Keys or Las Panas
Pedro Shoals
— Portland R.,N, E.P,
South Key
Rock 5 feet above winter .
N.Pt. Pedro Shoal
Formigas Shoal, N. E. P.
S. W. P
LitUe Cayman, S. W. P..
Caymanbrack, E. P.
Grand Cayman, S. W. P,
35
12
.8
29
8
42
27
13
4
00
20
24
37
40
C9
24
29
33
40
56
2
48
«5
1
46
42
o
51
54
58
49
16
2
17 55i
17 58
17 55i
17 43
17 52i
18 2
18 14
18 15
18 22i
18 28
IB 28
18 27
18 22
18 16
18 9
17 24
17 7i
16 57
16 48
17 36
18 35
18 27
19 36
19 44
19 14
Luni;.
1). M.
67 law
66 3.>
66 30
)5 52
67 49
(i7 56
67 27
68 22
C>S 33
68 58
69 52
70 11
71 18
1 22
72 36
73 34
73 56
74 29
75 2
74 26
74 7
73 43
72 55
72 38
72 21
72 48
73 17
72 50
73 24
72 55
72 35
72 13
71 56
71 42
71 44
71 44
71 12
69
69
68
57
7
76 12
76 49
76 52i
77 11
77 46
77 51
78 11
78 25
78 24
77 57
77 41
77 15
76 54
76 45
-6 20i
75 59
77 29
77 53
78 15
78 54
75 50
76 GO
80 6
79 37
81 4
; Lat
D. M.
E.P 19 19N
•wan Islands, E.P 17 22
New Shoal, (Sandy Key) .15 52
Cape Maize 20
Port Nejfra 20
Point Entrance, Cumber-
land n ibor 19
ST. .(AGO DECUbA.cn.
trance 19
Turquin'a Peak 19
Cape Cruz 19
Manziinillo 20
Key Breton 21
Trinidad River 21
Bay Xnpua 22
Stone Keys 21
Los .lardinellos, S. E. pointi
of the Cark 21
Canal del Rosario 21
I. Pines, E. P 21
3. W. P 21
Indian Kevs, N. W.P 21
Key St. Philip, E.P 22
Point Piedras 21
Cape Corriertcs 21
Cape St. Antonio 21
Sancli>. Pedro Shoal .21
Shcdl discovered in 1797, .22
Los Colorados, S. W. P.... 22
N. E.P 22
Point .Tuan a.'u Tuanito....i22
Hill Giiajibon 22
Bahia Honda 22
Port Cabanas 22
Mariel 23
HAVANA, (theMoro) ....23
Point Escondido 23
Poii.t Guanos 23
Pan of Matanzas 23
MATANZAS 23
Point Yeacos '. 23
Stone Key off do 23
Key Cruz del Padre !23
Las Cabezas 23
Nicolas Shoal i23
Key Carreno 22
Key Francis, E. P 22
Key William, northeri i08tj22
Pt. St. Juan 22
Centre of Bey Coco, S. sidei
Bahama channel 22
Key Point Paredon do 22
The Barrel ,22
Cayo Confites 22
Cayo or K(;y Verde 122
Guajava, N. W. P j21
Point Maternillos '21
Point de ^'angle ^21
Point de Mulas i21
Tanamo .20
Key Moa i20
Point Guarico 20
Baracoa 20
591
k3
N. Point Bajo Navidad 20 12
13
5
52
58
54
50
20
4
42
2
57
36
33
32
26
55
00
54
43
50
56
6
19
58
22
48
54
58
1
9
8
8
2
2
8
11
14
16
14
52
40
34
17
29
30
25
11
6
55
40
13
5
44
42
38
20
Superb Shoal.
Silver Key, S. E. end.
N. E. uo
N. do
20 58
20 14
20 35
20 55
Loiij;,
D. M.
HO 4li\V
H3 .M
78 49
74 r.
74 13
75 IS
76 no
76 49
77 43
77 8
79 33
80 6
80 35
81 8
81 8
81 i56
82 24
:83 01)
83 13
83 30
«^3 £2
84 24
84 56
85 13
65 2
84 44
'83 8
i84 21
j83 21
83 j
\^-i 52
'89 42
,82 19
l81 43
'81 35
81 37
81 32
81 11
81 9
80 56
80 42
80 20
79 49
'79 13
'78 45
j78 .57
178 17
j78 5
i77 56
|77 3S
|77 33
77 27
76 56
76 11
75 32
75 14
74 50
74 43
74 25
68 46
69 00
69 32
69 17
69 52
Square 1
N.
S. 1
— s. ■
Turk's l!
Turk.
Turk's I
— Snnd
>^ — Endyii
5 Great Cn
^,-N. E.
G Philip
— N. W
North C(
Booby R
Providen
point..
Little Ca
Kpy Frar
Sund Kn
South Po
(iroat Inr
N. E.
— S. E. 1
.5 - S. VV.
= -N. W
■? Liule Hci
t-w.p.
^ Hogsties,
% Lookout I
p^ Mayugua
— N.
— S. W.
E. point F
Planas
Miraporvc
Ca.stle Isl
Fortune I
North Ke
Crooked '.
Acklin's ]
Atwood'a
niana.
— W. P.
Rum Ke>
Watland'
— S W.
-^ Conceptio
0 St. Salva
"^ S. E. P
1 -N.P..
.« Little St.
cS Eleuthera
« — Point ]
2 — James
Ci Harbor I*
Egg Islar
New Proi
— NASS
- E. P..
— W.P.
Andros I
-N. P.
Berry Isl
Stirrups J
Blackwoc
Little Isa
Great Isa
Bernini
fresh M
\
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.
711
Tat
Uma.
). M.
I). M.
9 19iN
HO 4liW
7 22
H3 ,-,1
15 52
7S 48
>0 13
74 f,
20 5
74 13
0 52
75 18
9 58
76 00
9 54
76 19
9 50
77 43
0 20
77 8
1 4
79 33
I 42
80 f,
2 2
80 35
1 57
81 8
1 36
81 8
1 33
Hi ■)(!
1 32
'sa -21
1 26
83 01)
1 55
h3 13
2 00
,s3 •?.{)
1 54
••3 i-2
1 43
84 21
I 50
84 5()
1 56
85 12
2 6
85 2
2 19
84 44
a 58
83 8
2 22
84 21
2 48
S3 21
2 54
83 j
2 58
f-i 52
3 1
82 42
3 9
82 19
3 8
81 43
3 8
81 35
3 2
81 37
3 2
81 32
i 8
81 11
) 11
81 9
) 14
80 56
i 16
80 42
\ 14
80 20
! 52
79 49
» 40
79 13
! 34 '
78 45
17
78 57
29
78 17
30 1
78 5
25 i
77 5G
11
77 33
6
77 38
55
77 27
40 !
76 56
13 i
76 11
i75 32
i75 14
,74 50
74 43
74 25
68 46
69 00
69 32
69 17
69 53
H.junre Handkerchief
N. E. '-'
S. E. f
S. W.P
Turk's Island, N. P. Grand
Turk
Turk's Island Salt Key ....
— Snnd Key
— Endymion'.s Rocka
Great Cnycos Island, S. pt.
— N. E. point or Shoul tit
Philip
— N. W. part....
North Caycos, middle
Booby Rocks olFdo
Providence Caycoa, N. W.
point
Little Caycos, S. W. point.
K^-y Francis
Sund Ki;y
South Point Shoal
Great Inngua or lleneaga,
N. E. P
— S. E.P
— S. W. P
— N. W. P..,
Little Plencaga, £. P
— W. P
Hogsties, or Corrolaes
Lookout Bank, (Cuidudo) .
iVlayuguana E, Reef
-N. do
S. W. point
E. point French Keys, or I.
Planas
Miraporvos S. Key
Castle Island, or S. Key ...
Fortune Island, S. W. P....
North Key, Bird Island
Crooked Island, W. P
rVcklin's Island, N. E. P. .
Atwood's Keys, or I. Sama-
mana, E. P
— W. P
Rum Key, E. P
Watland'8 I. N. E. P.
— S W. P
Conception, or Little I.
St. Salvador, or Guanhari,
S. E.P
— N. P
Litt'e St. Salvador, N. P
Eleuthera, or Hetera I. S. P.
— Point Palmeto
— James Point
Harbor Island
Egg Island
New Providence Ughlhouse
— NASSAU ,
— E.P
— W.P
Andros Islands, S. P
— N. P
Berry Islands, eastern
Stirrups Key, northern
Blackwood's Bush
Little Isaac, eastern
Great Isaac
Bernini Island, northern
fresh water key .■
Lat.
U. M.
21 07 N
20 49
20 55
21 32
21 20
21 11
21 7
21 31
21 44
21 .54
21 56
21 58
21 50
21 36
21 30
21 19
21 2
21 20
21 00
20 55
21 9
21 29
21 29
21 40
21 57
22 20
22 32
22 22
22 41
5
22 7
22 32
22 49i
22 48i
22 44
23 3
23 3
23 41
24 8
23 58
23 50
24 9
24 38
24 33
24 37
25 6
25 23
25 30
25 31
25
25
25
25
24
25 23
25 30
25 48
25 35
25 58
26 3
25 43
71 27
71 22
71 47
71 57
71 58
72 20
72 27
72 8
72 14
71 32
73
73
73 38
3 40
■2 55
'3 6
73 48
72 55
72 40
73 9
73 11
73 30
4 31
74 20
74 24
74 24
74 23
73 55
73 45
73 55
74 43
74 22
74 32
75 2
75 12
75 37
75 52
76 5
76 2
76 18
76 36'
76 50
77 19
77 18
77 14
77 31
77 48
78 5
77 40
77 57
78 5
78 48
79 3
79 12
Lat.
D. M.
Cat Key '25 26N
Riding Rocks l25 15
Orange Keys, north 24 57
— Suuih 124 53
Key (iuinchos l22 46
KcyLobos j22 25
Las Mucaras 22 10
South edL't! of the Bank, ... 22 5
Brother's Rocks |22 00
rit. Vincent's Shoal |21 58
Key Verde Island 22 00
Key Sal, Ragged Island ..22 12
Yuma, or Long I., S. P 22 50
— N.P 23 40
Exumi, N.W. P 23 36
Leeward Stocking 1 23 52
THE HOLE IN THE i
WALL 25 51
N. E. point oi Abaco '26 18
Elbow Reef. 126 37
Man of War Key 126 37^
(Jreat (iuaiio Key !26 42
Lit. Bahama Bank, N. P. .127 35
Memory Rock 26 55
Sand Key 26 49
Wood Key, or C. Leno 26 45
Great Bahama, W.P 26 42
— E. P '26 40
Dog Keys, N. W. P 24 4
vVatpr Key 23 59
Double-headed Shot Key,
elbow 23 55
Salt Key 23 42
AnguiUa, E. P 23 30
GEORGETOWN 32 22
Wreck Hill, westernmost
land 32 15
Best latitude to run for Ber-
muda 132 8
D.
9
7!t
79
9
ng.
M.
9VV
4
G
6
77 57
77 29
77 12
76 20
75 45
75 28
75 14
75 46
74 51
75 25
75 r^Q
7f. 00
77 9
76 55
76 .54
76 57i
/7
79
79
79
79
4
11
2
2
2
79 00
77 48
79 50
80 16
80 26
80 20
80 28
64 33
64 SO
:?
^
V. — East Coast of America, from Gulf of
Mexico to Cape Horn.
Galveston inlet
W. P. Galveston Island.
Rio Brazos
Pasa del Cavallo
Aranzas Inlet ,
Corpus Christi
Brazo dc Santiago
Rio Bravo del Norte
River St. Fernando, ent
Inlets to Laguna Madre.
Bar de la Marine, entrance
river St. Ander
BardelTordo
Mount Commandante ..
Bar de ia Trinidad
Bar Cicga
River Tampico
Point de Xeres
Cape Rojo
Tamiagua City
River Tuspan, entrance
Point Piedras
River Cazones
Tenestequepe
Boca da Lima
29
29
26
25
Lat.
D. M.
15 K
5
29 00
28 18
27 55
27 36
6
56
25 22
2a 2
23 45
22 52
22 48
22 39
22 34
22 16
21 55
21 4.5
21 16
21 1
20 50
20 44
20 40
20 37
Long.
D. M.
95 5W
95 25
95 37
96 33
97 9
97 SiS
97 26
97 26
97 as
97 41
97 58
97 67
97 58
97 57
97 68
98 2
97 45
97 35
97 45
97 30
97 21
97 15
97 12
97 7
712
LATITUDEH AND LONGITUDES.
•0
CO
^
a
Riv(- Toculnta, entrance.
Moun" (Jordo
River Ninitn, viitronce
River Piliiia, entrance
I'oirii Pit droM
River de SSanta Nus
Point n^l^uda
Poiiit M. Andrea
•Bermt
ot. John Angel
Xuinpa
Peak de Ori/.ahu
Point do Zaiiipolu
Rivor St. Carlos
River Antigua
Point Gorda
VKRA CRUZ
St. John de Ulioa
Xaniajm
River Medciin, cnt
Point Anton Lizardo
Bur de Alvurudo
TIacotnlpan
Vigia
Point Rocn Partida
Point Monllos
Pic de San Martin....
Point Zapolitan
Point St. John
Barilla ;...
Bar Guaznconlcos
River Tonelado
River St. Ann
River Cupiico
Dos Bocas
River Chittepeque
River Tabasco
River St. Peter and Paul..
Island Carmen, Wt. P
Point Escondido
Tavinal
Point Morros
CAMPECHE
iPoint Desconocida
Point Gurda
Point Piedras
Igil
St. Clara
Bocas dc Silan
ElCuyo
Island Jolvas, N. P
Island Contoy, N. P
Las Areas Islands
Bank Obispo
Triangles Islands
New Shoal
Bajo Nueva I
Island Arenas
I. Bermeja, or N. W. Shoal
Bajo Sisal
Alacrancs
N. part of Bank off this coast
N. E. do
I. de Mugeres or Women's I.
L Cawkun, S. P
New River
River Bacales
Bay Ascension, ent
Island Cosumel, N. E. P....
— S.W.P
' I.ui.
I). M.
20 :)().\
•.20 1(>
•JO 10
'20 00
I'j r)5
iU 52
1!) 43
I!) 40
1!) 32
1!) 32
19 2
19 3,)
19 2(i
19 20
19
19
19
19
19
19
15
12
6
4
18 4(>
18 35
18 38
18 43
18 40
18 30
18 34
18 20
18 10
18 11
18
18
11
12
18 26
18 26
18 27
18 34
18 40
18 40
18 56
19 12
19 45
19 51
20 46
21 6
21 9
21 20
21 22
21 26
21 30
21 30
21 36
20 16
20 30
20 55
20 33
21 50
22 7
22 33
21 21
22 24
23 43
23 27
21 18
20 42
20 26
20 5
19 26
20 32
20 17
1).
97
'.Hi
!)()
9ti
!)(!
96
96
96
96
96
97
96
96
96
96
96
96
96
95
95
95
95
95
94
94
95
94
94
94
94
94
93
93
93
93
92
92
91
91
91
90
90
90
90
90
89
88
88
87
87
86
91
92
92
91
91
91
91
90
89
88
86
86
86
87
87
88
86
87
iig.
M
IW
57
50
45
35
30
26
21
21
20
50
9
16
15
14
4
4i
4
6
59
15
38
29
18
59
54
00
46
35
30
17
o
49
22
6
0
37
25
52
12
00
43
33
30
19
13
19
45
23
43
11
52
51
7
10
50
48
21
22
13
34
43
37
42
58
15
34
3
45
00
Pt. Tanack
N.Tri. ingle, N. Key
Siuidy Key, S. P
.S. P. Ariihcrgris Key 1. ...
HALIZH
Turnetr Reef, N. Pt
— S. Pt
Kngli.sli Key
llaK Moon Key lightlioube
HtttKey
Tohiiceo Key I
Santanilla or Swan 1
(Jlover's Reef, N. P
— S. P
Rcncgodo Key
Sapotilla's Keys, S. E. P .
Riiitan I. E. P
— W. P
Gunnojn, orF<;;.".acca I. S. P.
Cape Three Points
Oniott
Point Sol
Triunfo de la Cruz
Utilla, N. P
'rruxilio
Cape Delegodo.or Honduras
Cape Cameron
Co])e False,
Cape (iracioa a Dios
Caxones, W. P
S. E. P
Alnf?arte Alia, N. W. P.
S. P
Scranilla, N. E. Breaker.
Seranilla, W. Breaker...
Sarrnna N. P
Sarrann, S, P
Musketeers, centre
Providence I. N.P
Bracman's Bluff.
Little Corn Island
Great Corn Island
I. S. Andrew, middle
E. S. E. Keys
S. S. W. Key or Albuquer-
que
River St. John, S. P
Port Boco Toro
I. Escudo, N. P
River Chagre, ent
PORTO BELLO
Point Manzanillo
PointSt. Bias
Point Moschitoa
Isle of Pines
Cape Tiburon
River Suniquilla, ent
Point Carabana
Point Arboletes
Island Fuerte
I. S. Barnard, N. W. P
CARTAGENA
Punta de la Galera de Sam-
ba
West ent. River Magdalen
St. Martha
Cape Ajuga
Bank Navio quebrador
Hacha
Cape La Vela
M.
54
44
22
53
29
39
10
19
13
10
6 57
7 23
6 55
6 41
6 20
6 10
6 23
6 16
6 24
N
59
47
53
55
6
54
6 00
(i 2
5 14
5 00
6 07
6 02
09
01
45
41
29
31
23
02
2 14
2 09
2 33
2 24
2 08
0 57
9 29
9 14
9 21
9 34
9 39^
35
8
1
9
9
9
8 41
7 55
8 38
8 55
9 24
9 49
10 26
10 47
il 5
'1 15
11 20
11 26
11 33
12 11
'"'IB,
I). M,
H7 in
H7 i:,
H7 ,11
f^T 11
8H 4
N3 51
H7 40
H7 4fl
HH 11
H8 14
H(i 1,5
H(i 51
8() III)
88 34
88 1
87 48
87 .1H
87 a
86 a
86 6
^5 14
H.I ai
Kl] 13
83 18
83 ns
82 a7
82 25
79 41
9 58
80 IB
80 23
80 03
81 ao
83 20
82 58
83 03
81 43
81 28
81 52
83 37
82 5
80 57
80 4
79 45
79 37
79 3
77 58
77 50
77 27
76 56
76 58
76 30
6 16
75 56
75 38
75 30
74 56
74 18
4 16
73 15
'2 59
72 16
I; Point Ml
LATIUDES AND LONGITUDES.
713
l.at.
''iiiii.',~
). M.
1). M
8 54 W
H7 m
8 44
H7 Ij
8 2!2
H7 iH
7 53
8H 1
7 29
HH 12
7 3!)
»1 11
7 10
H7 5i;
7 19
t<» '2
7 13
87 31
7 10
N7 41
() 57
88 4
7 5>3
^3 51
(i 55
1^7 40
(> 41
87 48
(! 20
HH 11
i; 10
8H 1.)
() S.'3
8(i 15
() Iti
H(i 51
(! 24
8(i III)
5 59
88 34
5 47
88 1
5 53
87 48
5 55
87 38
1! G
87 a
5 54
86 3
() 00
h*6 fi
(> 2
^5 14
5 14
H3 ai
5 00
K3 12
6 07
83 18
G 02
83 08
5 09
H2 !J7
5 01
H-2 1)5
5 45
79 41
5 41
79 58
4 29
80 IR
4 15
SO a3
3 31
80 03
3 23
81 20
4 02
83 DO
2 14
82 58
a 09
83 03
2 33
81 43
2 24
81 28
2 08
81 52
0 57
83 37
9 29
82 5
9 14
80 57
9 21
80 4
) 34
79 45
) 39i
79 37
) 35
79 3
) 8
77 58
) 1
77 50
i 41
77 27
7 55
76 56
i 38
76 58
i 55
76 30
» 24
76 16
» 49
75 56
1 26
75 38
) 47
75 30
5
74 56
15
74 18
20
74 16
26
73 15
33
72 59
1 11
72 16
1
Point Gallinai
Monges iHliinds, N. P..
I'mte Chicliibocua
I'oint Espada
St. t'arlos
MAKACAYUU
Coro
Point Cardon
I'uiiit Macullii
Capo St. Koiimii
Inlar.d Oruba, N. W. P.
-S.E.P
Paint Auricula
Point Ziiuiuro
Point Soldado
Key Borraulio
Point Tucatrtfl
i^OilTO CAUHLLO..
i'oint St. John Andres
I'oint Oriunro
I'oint Trinchcra
LA(ilJlRA
'JAIiK.\(JCAS
.Ccntinclla I. or White Rock
iJajjei Codcra
Ciiracoa 1. N. V
-S. H. P
Little Curacoa
I'ucimyro, N. P
— S. P
Birds or Aves I. Western...
— Eastern
Los Uoques, W. P
— S. E. P
Orchilla I. mid
Ulanca 1. mid
E. Point Toitugal
.Seven Brothers, mid
Muryarita, W. P
— E. P
I. Ciiagua or Pearl 1
Friars 1
LSola
Pestigos I
Morro de Unare
New Barcelona
I. Borracho ."
Cumana
Pta. de Araya
.Morro Chocojjata
E?s,ordido or Hiddeii Port
Capi Malapasqua
Cape Three Points
Poini. Galera
Point Pena or Salina
Dragon's Mouth
River Gaurapiche, ent
Point Redondo
Mouth of Oronoco River...
Cape Nassau
Essequebo River
DE.UERARA,
— Lighthouse
River Berbice, ent
Surinam River, ent
Paramaribo
R. Marouri, ent
CAYENNE
Mouth of Oyapock river...
LntT
D. M
12
12
12
12
10
10
U
11
12
12
12
12
11
11
11
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
12
12
11
12
12
12
111
11
11
11
11
r
ii
u
10
10
11
11
11
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
25 N
28
15
4
57
39
24
36
04
11
36
24
56
26
14
57
51
28
30
31
37
36
30
50
36
24
o
59
19
24
00
57
50
47
48
51
•5
47J
59
59
49
11
20
23
6
10
19
28
38
42
40
42
45
43
43
43
12
50
50
32
2
49
23
57
48
53
56
14
l-oriK.
|j). M.
71 44 VV
71 3
71 20
71 13
71 44
71 45
'69 50
'70 23
70 22
70
70
70
9
12
1
69 56
68 59
68 40
68 22
68 21
7
50
18
8
1.)
12
17
49
68 45
•18 31
1)8
(;7
22
46
ii7 32
1)7 1
66 38
66 13
(i4
65
41
18
64 31
64 30
63 52
61 18
63 49
63 40
63 13
65 22
64 48
64 51
64 16
64 30
63 54
63 29
63 7
62 46
62 34
61
61
62
56
51
43
61 43
60 00
58 40
58 26
58 llj
57 11
55 3
55 00
53 49
52 13
51 26
%
Capp Oranijre
B.. ('aanip.inr, ont
<"api! North
Northern mouth of River
/ tun/on
Southern do
^'ap(! Mngoaiiy
'oint Tagioctt
'ara
<:iy iVIarncuno
/'iiite Harbor
Cape (iiira|)i
Shoal oll'do
E. J'oint of I. of St. JoBo
Vigia, I'ell in with by M
du Sylvia, ollicor of iht
Brazilian Nlariiic, in 1824
or 1825
Vijjia of Manuel-Luis West.
crly Rofk
Mundrain Itacolomi
Mt. Allcgre (the summit),.
Alcantara (west church) ..
Rock E. of Isle Medo
City of San Luisde Maran.
ham (Cathedral)
Fort Snnt Antonio das Are-
ias, the flag staff
Fort San Marcos
Isle Marniihain (white sand
hills, north part)
Breakers of Coroa Grande,
the north one
Northwest one
West
ilslc St. Ann, N. E. point...
Breakers of Isle St. Anne
E, point
•M orro Aleirre
Liincoos Grande, E. point.
River Perguicas, E. point...
River Tutoya, entrance
River Tapuyu, entrance....
Mt. 'Pai)uyu, W. summit,,.
Mt. Ticoadiba, summit
Point de Jericaconra, the
highest sand hill
Sand Hill, near the shore...
.Mount Mcmoca
Fernando Noronha
Roccns, (dangerous)
t'ernambuquinho
Vlorro Melancia
Sand hill of Parati
Mountains of Ciara, 1st....
2d. summit
3d. do
4th. do
.5th. do
Ciara, steeple in the city...
Point Macoripe
Morro Aracati, summit......
Point Reteiro Grande
Reteiro Pequeno, remarka-
ble sand hill
Morro Tibao
Point de Mel
Point du Tubarro .......
(Breaker) das Ureas....
(Do) de la Lavandela..
Lat.
1). M.
4 14 N
3 50
1 49
1 ION
0 5B
0 12
0 32
1 28
0 33
0 46
0 3!)
0 36
1 19
0 3:^
0 51
2 9
2 17
2 24
30
31
2 29
2 28
2 25
2 10
2 13
2 17
2 15
2 13
2 20
2 26
2 41
2 41
a 50
2
3
58
11
47
50
18
55
52
2
12
24
58
2
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3 53
50
46
39
43
42
42
36
4 48
4 49
4 55
5 2
4 52
4 55
Long.
I). M.
51 IIW
51 00
50 6
50 00
19 45
18 29
47 58
48 29
47 41
47 6
45 56
45 56
44 50
44 17
41 15
44 25
44 20
44 23
14 19
44 IG
14 17
44 16
44 4
43 58
44 4
44 5
43 38
43 30
43 13
43 00
42 27
42 12
40 50
40 51
40 37
40 27
40 39
40 6
32 24
33 44
39 37
39 30
38 59
38 41
38 46
38 43
38 49
38 48
38 34
38 31
39 55
37 33
37 19
37 18
36 59
36 28
36 19
36 20
714
LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.
I
Point f'alcnnhnr, summit
I'diiit IVtftinj.'n, low . .
CAPK .ST. HOUUE . .
Fort of Ivio Grrinilo . .
Point N«Kra, Mountain ,
I'uint i'ipn, vniid nioiinl .
Hiiliia FurnioHa, S. jioiiit .
iHuhia (la Truiriio, N. point
it'liurcli of St. Tliurt'HU .
|ForlCab(!<l(llo ....
U'aranahyhttdc Norte . .
CdjM' lilmico, «tcc|i |inrt .
Toint do Ciiiya ....
I'oint (luH I'edraH . . .
Villa<»(! of I'ilar . . .
Fort, cnt. of Rio Ay , .
NoHsa Scnoru Kuimha
(•lindo, west Iowit . .
Towi r do Uccifn, Prriiant
Luco
Nossa Scrili n do Honarin
CAIH-: ST. AUGUSTUS
Rivor I|)oj\ica, cnt. . .
Mount Selludii, S. peak .
[sinnds of ^'t. Akxio . •
Fort fl(! I'linianilaro . .
Son Ik-nto
Villn','c of Uuiiita . . .
La Forquilia, hill . . .
Frcncluii'jn's port . . .
Villagu at tlio point of Ui-
vcr Alnfe'oas ....
Morro Sant Antonio . .
Riyer Sun Francisco . .
Tubayana Afluuntuin sum-
mit
Rio Vasa Harris . . .
Rio Real, S. point . . .
Torre de Garcia de Avila
River Jacuipo ....
Rock ofltapuan . . .
Itapuanzinko, the point .
ST. ANTONIO, N. W.
tower
Point Cbbo I'regos, Isle Ita-
porica
Point Aratuba do . . .
Point laburn do . . .
Mount ConceicQo do . .
Morro Sant Amarro do .
Morro de San Paulo . .
UleBoypeda ....
I«Ie duiepi
Point of Muta ....
Villa of Contas . . .
Os Ilhecs, the largest rock
Villa de San George doB
Ilheos
Rio Cachoeira, S. point .
Villa of Unha ....
Morro de Commandatuba,
S. E. summit . . .
Vill. of Commandatut.1 .
Village of Belmont . .
Santa Cruz, steeple . .
Porto Se"uro, steeple of the
Cathedral ....
Isolated Mount ....
Mount Pascal, summit .
Mount Joao de Siam . .
River Cramimuam . .
Columbiana
P.M.
5 as
5 28
5 45
3 hi
(i 13
ti 23
f) 41
(i 57
(i 5H
7 6
7 8
7 2(;
7 35
7 3(J
7 47
7 57
S 1
4
9
21
23
25
3t;
43
5
IC
10
40
9 40
y n
10 29
10 47
11 U
11 28
12 32
12 42
12 58
1
13
13 0
13 8
13 5
12 57
13 3
13 1
13 22
13 38
13 51
13 53
14 18
14 47
14 49
14 49
14 59
15 S2
15 25
15 51
IG 19
16 27
16 52
16 54
17 0
16 51
17 6
Lout;.
I). M.
35 31 W
55 2t)
35 17
35 15
35 U
35 4
35 00
34 57
34 53
34 50
34 53
;i4 18
34 47
M 48
31 48
34 51
34 r.i
34 51
34 53
34 5G
34 57
34 58
3f> 11
35
35
35 17
35 22
35 49
35 41
35 47
35 35
3G 23
37 23
37 17
37 20
38 1
38 7
38 22
38 28
38 32
38 46
38 44
38 36
38 41
38 45
38 54-
38 37
33 57
38 57
39 00
38 59
39 00
:i8 59
38 58
39 8
38 56
38 54
39 2
39 3
39 31
39 25
39 37
39 9
39 12
Villa Prndo, Fort . . .
AhiollioH Ixliwuli; (he larg-
cKt ii-hiiul
Uio lie Son Mathco . .
llio Docc, mtrnni'i! . .
Scrra don llriM Magos, tht
S. t>uniniit ....
Morro Almcyda . . .
Mestri! Alvaro, Hiimmit .
Cape '/.iiharro ....
"litou" lit the north of the
city of Vitloiiu . . .
NoHsa Senhora da Penlia,
church
Mount Morcna . . .
Paeotes roekH ....
I'oint Jii 11
Martin Vn« Rock . . ,
'i'riiiidad Island ....
Guarnpari . • . : .
Morro Ho, (iHolatcd nicun
tiiin)
Morro de Pxncvrnto . .
Serra de (iuarapari . .
Mt. de CauipoH, S. fiuniniit
Mtns. of Funido, higiiest
(JAl'KST. TlldMAS .
\n\f .St. Ann, the larpest .
Pic do Frnd(^ de Maealie
Morro Sun Joao, f iinimit
Cape Ijir/.ioy, S. point
Uies Ani'ora, rasternniOBt
CAl E HtlO, S. point .
( 'ape iS'fijro • . . . •
Itiies MuricuH, FouthernnioHt
Redundo
UK) JANEIRO, giigar loaf
Lti Guhiu
Isle GcnrgiGrcgo . . .
O. Pukugaiu, top of Islt
Grande . ....
Uha Grande, Pt. Aenya .
Point loutinya ....
Pic de Parali, siinimit
Isle Couvcs, largest . .
Isle Victoria • . . . .
Isle Bu«OB, S. E. . . .
Isles do8 Porcon, south sand
hill
Isle St. Sfbnstlan . .
" Highest mountain
" Point PirasBonungo
AlcatraBt:es ....
Mouton de Trigo . .
Luge dc Sanies . . •
ls!e of Santos . . .
Point Grossa ....
" Taypu . . .
Isle Queiniada Grande
Isle Clucimadu Pequcna
Point J urea ....
Mount Cerdoz . . .
Isle Bom Abrigo . .
Rocher Castello . . .
Rocher Figo ....
Isle de Mci, south top .
Roc Coral
Roc Itascolomi . . .
Point Joao Diaz . . .
Isles TamboretcB . .
Isles Remedios . . .
Point Itapacoroya . .
Isle Avoredo, top . .
I.nl. 1
.lltiV
P.M. !
)M
17 21 S
Jl» lltW
17 S8 :
)8 4S
18 57 .
yj 4,-.
19 37
3U 51
10 60
10 22
19 57
10 20
20 9
10 V2
20 16
10 17
20 18
40 S3
20 20
40 20
20 19 !
10 10
20 21
40 17
20 3G
41) 22
20 29
28 54
20 31
JO 21
20 44
40 33
20 48
40 41
20 65
40 49
20 50
41 8
21 23
41 28
21 50
41 4:t
22 3
41 CO
22 25
41 4G
22 12
42 y
22 32
42 G
•22 4*-
41 .m;
122 40
41 51
23 1
42 3
•2'2 57
42 45
•23 1
43 00
23 4
43 17
•J2 nG
43 14
•22 5t)
43 !.'3
i'a 15
44 ID
23 11
44 21
23 15
44 29
23 18
44 3')
23 19
44 54
S3 26
44 58
23 48
45 14
23 44
45 6
23 34
45 10
23 48
45 22
23 58
45 20
24 06
45 47
23 51
45 .^)2
24 18
4G 18
24 04
4G 13
23 59
46 24
24 1
46 30
24 28
40 47
24 21
4C 54
24 33
47 19
24 59
48 12
25 7
47 58
25 16
48 3
25 22
48 10
25 33
48 26
25 46
48 30
25 50
48 33
26 7
48 40
26 21
48 39
26 29
48 42
26 47
48 44
27 17
48 29
.fti;-ri*«'*«^^-
1'
so 10 2'2
87 -to '20
9 '-10 '^y
10 40 17
18
20
19
'21
St;
2'J
31
44
48
f.5
50
'23
50
3
'25
12
: 3'i
[ 4(.
I 40
) 1
I bl
{ 1
5 4
I no
I 51»
i 15
H
15
} 18
It)
120
48
i 44
3 34
48
i 58
00
51
18
04
3 59
1
28
'Jl
33
59
7
10
22
33
40
50
7
!0 21
10 29
!0 47
>7 17
•to 23
40 20
•10 19
40 17
•10 'i-i
|-2M 54
m '21
l40 33
40 41
'40 49
41 H
41 '28
41 43
41 00
l4i 46
42 y
42 i;
i4l ;it'.
|4l 51
4'2 3
ll'J 4r>
13 00
13 17
43 14
13 'J3
44 11»
14 21
44 '29
44 3')
14 54
44 58
5 14
45 6
45 10
45 22
45 20
45 47
45 52
40 18
40 13
40 24
46 30
40 47
40 54
47 19
48 12
47 58
18 3
48 10
48 26
48 30
48 33
48 40
48 39
48 42
48 44
48 29
I.ATITIDES AND LOMGITUDES.
V.
i ID. M.
IIiU at. Ciithnrine, E. itoinl. |J7 "JO H
,lc Point 11,11.11 . . . ■ !^7 -JJ
' ,!(» Sir.-]ili< of .\oi»*i Scnlio
I t^ dii MfMliTW . . •
I'nint Virai|iic!rft ..."
ilxlf iln* Ar.ira« ....
' Point Hitiiliii
Mc <lp I.DtxM ilu la Lii;{iina
\li)rfii (1,1 H.irrn ...
riu' <'ilv ill- lii I.iiijiHia .
(^ipe St! Miirtii I'l-qiic'iii) ,
" St. .Miirta (lr.iU(lo .
Bnrni Villia
As I'ltrrtH
Ili'iicli of Forniiiiil)"co, cu»i
jiiirt
1 11 :»r.
i2.S l.T
■IH Irt
•JS 10
•:«i -21
■!)< '21 »
•2S 2M
■n nil
2rt 311
•28 .'jI
•39 -M
I). M.
IH'iltW
H 32
to
3!)
37
39
1.')
•20 5-3
31 1-2
i32 07
i''ii
Uciicli (1(1 DcHirfitto, K. iiiirt
Ilio (Jriindc (li) San IV.Iro
Hank of Sand and SIicIIh, fvi
,.;irt ...:... 3311
Loi Cii»lillo8, Iho eiiutorn
rock ....;.. l-M 21
I Vipo iU' llopliii, or St. .Muriu3l 39
Irtic di) LohoH, the niiddlo . ;3.') 01
'ity of Maldonado, llie tow(;r 3 1 W.\
U'f' di' ( icriti, I'^ui^lwli Toinli ;j \ 'm
IS 'A
IS .M
IS ,"»()
t!) n;
.->() 0.)
,M)
10
si 09
31
31 r)3
31 47
rv,
.u y.i
:\{ 50
34 55
31 -JS
\Vliiil(< I'.iint
Bl.ick I'oirit .
I'oint d' A'il.ir ....
" (lis Pifdras Nc;;ra9 de
S;iint llina 31 10
Ul(! (1(! i'MoHN, the Tower 31 .MJ
\lont(' Video, tlie (J;illii'dral 31 :')!
hie R.ilcH of Montfi Video |31 '^t
('erro di; Monlo Video
IViiii; do r {•".spinillo . .
Lii Fanella . . . . •
Point (ill Sanro ....
rtie Colony of San Sacra-
mento
"lapc St. Antoinc . . .
Le Sal.ido, tiie entrance .
i nil of Juan Jnroniino . .
IVmt di! I'iedrai de Saint
Boroin'ion
;iill Salvador (Jrande , .
"oinl de 1' India ....
e'irst Oinbu tree of the Mag-
ddcna
l.a Majfiilena. the Cinirch
.'.2 II
r.l 10
.-.I 51
.V) 0!)
.V. Oi)
5'> 4
55 17
55 31
.55 41
,V. 57
.51; 13
.51; 15
.5;5 17
.50 '20
,50 '20
157 -27
31 30
30 55
37 59
4-.
17
1.1
.50
51
45
11
9
3;i
31 2S
30 20
35 41
35 'J9
35 2S
35 19
35 15
51
•17
".it
5f>
".7 -i'y
57 21
35 03
J5 0-2
57 09
)7 10
')7 12
')7 10
57 31
l.nl.
D. M.
Point de la Alalaya . . 34 .55 8
" di> Suniiu({o . . . 31 50
Point dv l<ira . . . . 31 47
UueiK"* AyreM, Florida utrect
No. H7
(;a|Mi l.oliim . . . . •
I 'ii|ie < 'orienleit ....
Point de .Neuva .... 42 .Vi
St. llelemi 41 31
t'ai'" MI'i'"^" '"^ '•''
Point I'oire
Pori St. .Iidicn, f'a|K:CiirioHo
SI. ('rn/. Iliirl'or . . .
i 'ape I'.iirwe illier . . .
I'aiie Vir^in^, norlhorn point
of entrance to iMaaellanV
Straiti*
JJipc Kspirito Santo, Bumaut
5 milcM itditnd ....
rcrrii del Kncgo, C. Pcima
— Cnpe St. |)ie;;o ....
Stateii l.nnd
— ('. St. .lidin, eauternniost
land nearCiipe ll(»rn .
— (.'. St. Il.irtliohnuw . .
— (J. del .Medio, entrance to
[jo Mairc'H Sir.iiti* . .
New Island, K. pirt . .
iKvoiil's iHJand, middle . .
inernalieias Islandu, !•".. point
'CAPh: IIOIJ.V, «uniniit .
I. Oici,'') Raiiiires, S. part
|— N. part
iTerra del Fucijo
— Yorkriiinster . . ; .
I — O. (tloucestrr ....
i— Capt! Pillars, S. W. enl.
I to AlajelJan'a straits :
|-2van!»elirtt I., W. entrance
I to \la'.jellan's straitu
|Capo Victory
l^ape Three Points . , .
j Mount Corso
1. Carnpana, N. W. point
Capo Trns Moiitos . . ,
Capo Taitaolinohuhon
1. Huafo, wcrft part . .
P. (Inilaa
P. St. Carloa
P. Cl'ieqnl . . . .
I.onK.
D. M.
,57 44 W
57 55
,>rt 0-2
58 24
,50 17
■ ri 19
,52 12
1.53 45
{51 41
51 4ft
VI 57
51 49
.55 17
55 33
.55 4!»
55 5!>
.50 27
50 '22
55 24
51 30
52 43
I
1.52 24
|52 10
50 02
49 45
48 00
40 59
45 51
44 00
43 41
41 49
41 5
')7
01
15
;i5
i'.5
39
9
17
47
07 35
M 19
08 55
08 17
OS 41
()7 29
05 0-2
03 42
04 39
01 48
00 '25
00 40
00 40
07 11
OH 30
08 37
70 2
73 S
71 38
75 3
74 51
75 20
75 29
75 19
75 27
75 28
74 42
74 SI
73 53
74 9
The Latitudes and Longitudes in the preceding Table have been selected from the most recent
and best authorities.
Those of the Coast of Newfoundland and Gulf of St. Lawrence have been altered to correBpond
with the recent observations, as far as rec(;ived, of the olHcers under the direction of Sir Charlea
Ogle, and those made by (Japt. Bayfield, R. N , who is now surveying tho .St. Lawrence.
The positions of the principal points of the Coast of the United States are altered to o^ee with
the observations made of the Eclijise of the Sun of February 12th, 1831.
The West Indies are adapted to the most recent observations ; among others, to those of Com.
R. Owen, R. N.
The Coast of South America, from St. Luis, Maranham, to St. Catharines, from the observations
of Baron Roussin ; from St. Catharine's to the River Plate, by M. Barral ; and from Port St. Elena
to Cape Horn, by P. P. King,,R. N., and his associates.
It may be remarked that the recent English and French surveys of the Coast of South America,
differ from 5 to 10 miles in longitude* by their chronometers, in every place where both have ob.
served, we therefore have taken the French observations from St. Luis to the River Plate, as tbore
is a regularly connected chaia of observations, and the English from thence to Cape Horn, for the
same reason.
*Tb« EoglU h maks all their polnu of obMrvatlon to much to the eaalward of the French.
..<..
T
/
Copy of a 1
Gentlem
I have k
has decrea
bar have tl
N. W. by
bank and t
side of the
increasing
the bar to i
changing a
ward of thi
the northw
shoal grou
the N. W.
' distance of
and W. N
This ridge
a considerj
13 fathoms
the water i
the island,
the island.
The eas(
is much gr
but grows
east end, ii
breaks, ext
a distance
water in it.
is sometin
which the
tide across
direction, 1
are flat ant
ground is v
or 80 fathe
setting to t
there is a s
in a S. S.
laid down
along the f
principally
error in th
past the isl
from Euro
upon it. J
ror in thei
foundland,
of from six
westerly ai
istence of;
will be stro
.•iSf***^**'"
APPENDIX.
SABLE ISLAND.
Copy of a Letter from Capt. Joseph Darby, Supcrintendant of Salle tslaml, to the Editors.
Gbntlemen — ■ Sable Island, October, 1836.
I have known the island for the last twenty-eight years, in which time the west end
has decreased in length about seven miles, although the outer breakers of the N. W.
bar have the same bearing from the west end of the island that they then had, about
N. W. by compass, distant about 8 miles, which clearly shows that the whole of the
bank and the bar travels to the eastward. The ground is high and the water shoal out-
side of the breakers. Seven or eight miles more, in a N. W. direction, the variation is|
increasing to the westward, and is now nearly Ij point west. The flood tide sets across
the bar to the northward and eastward very strong, and the ebb tide to the opposite point,
changing alternately at half flood and half ebb. The ground to the southward and west-
ward of the bar is very regular, deepening very slowly to a considerable distance, but to
the northward and eastward the ground is very stee)), and from the breakers, or from very
shoal ground outside of the breakers, you fall into deep water all at once. The bank to
the N. W. is very uneven, and curves round to the northward in a steep ridge, and at the
distance of about 35 miles from the island, in a N. W. direction, are 10 lathoms water,
and W. N. W. and E. S. E. from that the ground falls very suddenly into deep wate(|^
This ridge joins the middle ground, and extends in an easterly and a N. E. direction to
a considerable distance, with shoal water; the bottom in small ridges, with 11, 12, 11,
13 fathoms of water, and so on, over it ; and between this bank and the bar, or the island,
the water is very deep, 80 or 90 fathoms. The bank extends to the eastward abreast of m
the island, the southernmost edge of the bank, from 20 to 25 miles to the northward of
the island.
The east end has alterpd very little since my knowledge of it, except in height, which
is much greater than it was, and the whole island seems to increase in height every year,
but grows narrower. There is a low bar of dry sand running from the highland of tHe
east end, in a N. E. direction, about three miles, from whence shoal water, that alwavs ■
breaks, extends about two miles farther in an E. N. E. direction, outside of which, for
a distance of about six miles, is a passage across the bar, Avith from 2^ to 3 fathoms ot
water in it. Outside of that, again, is a piece of high ground that always breaks, and
is sometimes dry, and extends in an E. N. E. direction between 2 and 3 miles, from
which the shoal ground continues in the same direction some miles farther. The flood
tide across this bar sets very strong to the northward, and the ebb tide in the opposite
direction, but not so strong. The soundings to the southward and eastward of the bsir
are flat and regular for a considerable distance, but to the northward and westward the
ground is very steep— close to the breakers 10 fathoms, and goes down suddenly into 70
or 80 fathoms to 100 or upwards. I believe, in general, there is a very strong current
setting to the "W. S.W., between the Sable Bank and the Gulf of Mexico Stream ; and
there is a strong current sets down the western side of the Gulf of St. Lawrence Stream,
in a S. S. W. direction ; and I have some reasons for thinking that the Banquereau is
laid down a little too far to tne eastward in all charts that I have seen. The curreiit
along the south side of the island is very shoal water, runs both east and we8;t, and ia
principally influenced by the winds. The most of the wrecks that happen here are in
error in their longitude ; for instance, vessels bound to the eastward think themselve*
past the island when they get on shore upon it, and vessels bound to the westward (say
from Europe) do not think themselves so far to the westward whe.i they get on shore
upon it. I have known several cases of vessels from Europe that have not made an er-
ror in their longitude exceeding half a degree, until they came to the Banks of New-
foundland, and from that here, in moderate weather and light winds, have made errors
of from sixty to a hundred miles, which, I think, goes so far to prove the existence of a
westerly and southerly current between the Grand Banks and here, and also of the ex-
istence of a westerly current between the Sable Bank and Gulf of Mexico Stream, which
will be stronger or weaker according to the distance between the stream and the banks.
7t8
APPENDIX.
''&.:
When a casualty has occurred, and you find that you are on the body of the Islam!, f
would recommend that nothing of masts or rigging be cutaway without the vessel shon I
be very tender, and then you may do it to ease her a little; but a vessel of ordinary
strength will bear her spars until she heaves up on the beach, or settles in the sand anil
lays quiet, as lives and property have often been saved by a vessel having her spars staml-
ing, as from the heads of which you may often send a line on shore when it is not possible
to work a boat; and by sending a good hawser after it and securing it well on shore, a
chair or other more efficient article may be rigged for conveying passengers, or others,
or valuable property, over the breakers in safety ; as from the nature of the soft sandy
bottom a vessel will not go to pieces as soon as if she was on rocks, and by the riggitifr
being left standing it may afterwards be saveil, whereas if the masts are cut away the
whole of the rigging goes with them, and all get tangled and buried in the sand, and
are generally totally lost. But if you are on either of the bars, the first consideration
should be to secure the boats and lighten the ship, and leave her as soon as ever you have
■ to abandan the hope of getting her off; endeavor to get to the leeward of the breakers,
and land on the island according to circumstances, endeavoring to land on the north side
if possible, as vessels that get on the bars very soon disappear altogether, either by going
to pieces in the irregular sea and strong currents, or by rolling over the steep bank to the
northward and sinking in deep water. When property can be saved on the island, it is
proper for the master and his crew to do the utmost in their power to save it ; they can
get the assistance of the people of the island with a boat and teams of horses, not (or
hire, for they are employed by government, and the island draws a salvage of whatever
may be saved on it, which is apportioned by the magistrates at Halifax : the more there
is saved by the master and crew the less salvage will be taken ; but it is very often the
case that the crews will not assist to save property, and whatever is saved is done exclu-
sively by the establishment, in which case the salvage is pretty high. There are buikl-
'ings on the island for the shelter of persons cast away on it, with provisions for those
who save none ; also some buildings for the reception of perishable goods. These build-
ings, and whatever is put into them, are under the charge of the superintendant. All
Hproperty saved must be sent to Halifax by the first opportunity : the master can keep
inventories and continue with the goods if he likes, but has no control over their desti-
nation; but I believe, by petitioning the governor at Halifax, he mi^ht get permission to
take them where he pleases, on paying the duty and salvage. When any property is
i*t saved on the island it is sent to Halifax, where it is advertised and sold by order of the
Commissioners, and the proceeds paid into their hands, out of which they pay the king's
dues, the salvage apportioned by the magistrates, the expenses of freight, and other
small charges, and the residue is paid over to the master, or other authorised agent, for
the benefit of the underwriters and all concerned. The superintendant is under the
control of the governor and tlie commissioners, and can take no new step without orders
from them. The above and before mentioned custom is an old and long established
rule, and supported by many acts of the Provincial Legislature, and more particularly
by an act passed the 4th day of April, 1836, and in the sixth year of his Majesty's reign,
which does more fully explain and set forth the rules for the guidance of the establish-
ment.
The north side is very safe, as a vessel may approach any part of it within a mile, and
vessels in distress might, by standing in on the north side and near the west end where
the principal establishment is, get a supply of fresh water or fuel, or a partial supply of
provisions and fresh meat, except in cases of a strong breeze and in heavy sea on shore.
There is no difficulty in working boats on this side of the island. The south side is also
very safe to approach in clear weather, but from the heavy sea that constantly breaks on
it, the communication with a vessel by boats, is extremely difficult, except after a spell
of northwardly winds for three or four days, when the sea becomes smooth, and boats
may work.
Should you deem further information necessary respecting the laws governing the
island, I beg leave to refer you to the commissioner for the affairs of Sable Island, at
Halifax, for an abstract of the Province Laws, passed at the last session of the House
of Assembly. I regret much that this information has been withheld from you so long,
the unavoidable consequence of a very rare and uncertain communication.
\^^^,,^m:.;^.^^^ ^^.^^^
APPENDIX.
719
LIGHTHOUSES, BEACONS, &c.
Appropriations were made at the second session of the twenty-fourth Congress, (.Ta- '
nuiiry, 1837,) for building Lighthouses, Beacons, 6cc., as follows, suoject, however, to
tlie decision of the IJoard of Navy Commissioners, " whether the safety of navigation
requires any additional facilities, and if so, what is most suitable for each place needing
such additional facilities."
STATE OF MAINE.
Lighthouse on Mark Island, Harpswell Sound.
Lighthouse on Mount Desert Island, at the entrance of Frenchman's Bay.
Fog-bell on Seguin Island, at the entrance of Kennebec River.
Buoys in West C^uoddy Bay, and for substituting for the j)resent fog-bell, at the en-
trance of said passage, a cast steel triangular bell, or a bell of the usual form, but in-
creased weight.
Lighthouse on a proper site at Spoon Isle, Penobsoot Bay.
Lighthouse on Saddleback Ledge, in Penobscot Bay.
Lighthouse on Eagle Island Point, in Penobscot Bay.
Lighthouse at the mouth of Pleasant River.
Monuments ou Fort Point Ledge, Adam's Ledge, and Buck's Ledge, in Penobscot
River.
Beacon-light on Ilalf-tide Ledge, and two buoys about a mile and a half from the
town of Sullivan, in the county of Hancock.
Lighthouse on York Nubble, in the county of York.
STATK OF NKW HAMPSHIRE.
Buoys at or near a rock at the mouth of Spruce ( 'reek, in Piscataqua River.
STATE OF MASSACHUSKTTS.
Two small lighthouses, should two be necessary, on proper sites, at or near Ipswich
Harbor.
Lighthouse at or near Ned's Point, contiguous to the village of Mattapoisett.
Tiiree small lighthousf;s on Nanset Beach, Cape Cod.
Buoys ujion the rocks and ledges at the entrance of the harbors of Lynn, Salem,
Beverly, Miulilehead, and Manchester.
Buoys on Aldridge Ledge, False Spit, Hunt's Ledge, Hospital Island Ledge, Scul-
piou Ledge, Governor's Island Point, and Little Farm Bar, in Boston Harbor.
Beacon at the mouth of New Bedford Harbor.
Spindle in the haroor of Edgarton, and buoys.
Lighthouse at Wing's Neck.
Buoys in the harbor of Mattapoisett.
Buoys on Bay Rock, the ledge on the shoal on the west side of Taunton River, op-
posite Fall River.
Buoys at a place called Egypt, in Taunton River.
Beacon on Muscle Bed, and a beacon on Oyster Bed, in Mount Hope Bay.
Lighthouse on Mayo Beach, in Wellfleet Bay.
STATE OF CONNECTICUT.
Buoys on Black Boy Reef, Barney's Reef, Stony Point Reef, and Wheeler's Rock,
in the harbor of Killingworth.
Beacon at Round Island, on Saybrook Bar.
Buoys on the rocks in the harbor of Greenwich.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND.
Lighthouse on Papoose Squaw Point, near the port of Bristol.
Buoy and beacon on South White Rock, and a buoy on Charles Rock, near the har-
bor of Wickford.
Rebuilding and changing the location of the light o; 'ilock Island.
STATE OF NEW YORK.
A revolving or double light upon the south side of Execution Rocks, opposite Sand's
Point, in Long Island Sound.
Buoying out Gedney's Channel, New York Harbor.
Two light-boats, one at Flynn's Knoll, and another south of Sandy Hook, New York
Harbor.
Buoy in the newly discovered channel over Sandy Hook Bar, and a beacon light on
Romer's Shoal, New York Harbor.
Lighthouse on Cedar Island, Sag Harbor.
Buoys in Sag Harbor. ,
Floating light on or near the Middle Ground, so called, in Long Island Sound.
Lighthouse on Robin's Reef, in the harbor of New York.
720
APPENDIX.
STATE OF NEW JERSEf.
Lighthouse at the month of Coliansey Creek.
Lighthouse at or near J]j;g Island, near the entrance of Maurice River.
Lighthouse near Absecuin Inlet, on the sea coast of New Jersey.
STATE OF DELAWARE.
Lighthouse on the lower or soiithern end of Keedy Island, Delaware Bay.
Lighthouse on the Brandywine Shoal, Delaware Bay. '
Buoys in the harbor pf the Delaware Breakwater.
STATE OK MARYLAND.
Lighthouse on Sharp's Island, Cliesapeake Bay.
Buoys on the rivers Nanticoke, Manokin, Annamessex, Pocamoke, and Wicomico,
Hooper's and Cajey's Straits, and Tangier and Pocamoke Sounds.
^ Lighthouse at Love Point.
STATE OF VIRGINIA.
Lighthouse on the scrutli end of Hog Island, on the Atlantic coast.
Light-boat on York River Spit, or a lighthouse.
Removing the lighthouse at Old Point Comfort, Fortress Monroe.
Lighthouse in the Chesapeake.
Lighthouse at Day's Point, on James River.
Light-boat in the Chesapeake Bay.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA.
Lighthouse ofl' Powell's Point, Albemarle Sound.
Lighthouse on Pea Island, near New Inlet.
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Lighthouses or light-boats in the inlets of Saint Helena and Port Royal.
Five beacon-lights in Charleston Harbor.
STATE OF LOUISIANA.
Beacon-light at or near the south-west part of Vermilion Bay.
Lighthouse at the pass between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurcpas.
Lighthouse on St. Joseph's Island, in Lake Borgne.
Two buoys at Dolphin Island Pass, two buoys at Pass Marianne, two buoys at Pass
Christian, and two buoys at Heron Pass.
Beacons and lighthouses at the entrance of the harbor recently constructed on Lake
Pontchartrain.
Lighthouse on Lake Pontchartrain, at the mouth of the Bayou St. John.
TKRRITORY OF FLORIDA.
Lighthouse on the most suitable site at or near the east entrance from the Gulf of
Mexico into Apalachicola Bay.
Lighthouse at the entrance of St. .Toseph's Bay.
Three buoys at the mouth of St. John's River.
Buoys to mark the channel from the eastern pass into Apalachicola Bay to the town
of Apalachicola.
Light-boat to be stationed at the north west passage, twelve miles from Key West.
Buoys at the north-west pasi^a'ge and harbor of Key West.
Rebuilding and changing the location of the lighthouse at Mosquito Inlet.
Buoys on a rock in the outer harbor of Key West.
ERRATA.
CAPE RACE.— Longitude of Cape Race, (see p. 13,) for 52° 59', read 53° 06'.
SOMBRERO, p. 44.— Longitude of Sombrero, for 68° 30', read 63° 30'.
CAPE RAY.— Longitude of Cape Ray, (see p. 66,) for 59° 17', read 59° 20'.
ISLAND OF ST. PAUL, (p. 87.)— In the description of this island it is mention-
ed that there is a lighthouse on it, containing a fixed light : this is erroneous, there be-
ing no lighthouse on the island.
BARRA DE SANTIAGO— The depth of water on the Barra dc Santiago is 7 feet.
"''-**i&>ij*:
ADDITIONAL APPENDIX.
JANUARY 1, 18 3 8.
1 the Gulf of
Page li'4.
WEST (^ODDY HEAD LIGHT "may be seen at sea, in clear weather, six .
leagues.
It is situated on the S. E. side of Quoddy Head, ami contains a fixed light, elevated
ninety feet above the level of the sea. It bears from the Sodihern H'!'«(i of ('rand Ma-
nan N. \ E., distant about 16 miles, and from the northern head of said island, W. N.
W. distant about nine miles.
Sail Rock bears from the light S. S. E. about % of a mile : it 4o iiot covered at high
water, ana at some distance has the appearance of a sail, from which it derives its name.
There is a passage between it and the mam shore, at low watei', but which had better
not be attempted, unless forced by the currents, and light winds. Near the above ii-
tioned lighthouse is an alarm bell, weighing 28 cwt. 2 qrs. (twenty-eight huiiu.ed
weight, and two quarters,) which is, at present, rung by hand, and may be heard at sea,;
from 3 to 6 miles, in thick weather.
Liberty Point bears from the light, E. N. E. about one and a half mile, this being
the southernmost point of Carapo-Bello Island, and forming the eastern side of West
Quoddy Bay.
West from said Point, about % of a mile distant, lies a rock called Black Rock, which
is not covered at high water, antl is bold all around.
The middle ground is a shoal, near the middle of West Quoddy Bay, about ^^ of a
mile in circumference, with a good channel on either side of it. The shoalest part is
often dry. On the western part of the shoal is a Spar Buoy, iioored in five feet at low
water, and which bears from West Quoddy Head, N. N. W ■ lant about one mile.
Prom the above mentioned Buoy, N. W. by N. | N. about 1;^ mile distrat, is a Nun
Buoy, painted red, and moored in two fathoms at low water. To the southward of this
Buoy is a rocky Bar, extending from Campo-Bello Island to the main shore of West
Quoddy Bay, and which is nearly dry at low water. N. N. E. distant \ a mile from the
above Red Nun Buoy, is a similar Buoy, painted black, moored in four feet at low wa-
ter, on the eastern part of the Muscle Bank, so called, which is bai-^ at half tide.
From the Black Buoy to Delesdernier's Pent, it is N. | W. distant about | of a milt,
This point is very bold, and may be known by a number of fish houses upon it, which
may be seen on the larboard hand, in running through the Narrows.
The entrance of West Quoddy Bay is wide, and the shores are bold, and may be
neared, until up with the Spar Buoy. If in want of a pilot, by displaying a signal, one
can be obtained at the lighthouse.
Sailir).cr Direclions for West Quoddy Bay and through the Narrows.
Vessels bound to West Quoddy Bayif and being to the v estward of the lighthouse,
should give tlie shore a berth of ^ of a mile, and steer N. E. by E., which will carry you
clear of Sail Rock ; and when the light, or sound of the bell bears W. N. W. you may
steer N. W. 1;V mile, which course and distance will bring you up with the Spar Buoy
on the Middle Ground, and if low water, here you may anchor and wait for the tide to
go over the Bar, which you cannot cross until 2^ hours flood ; but if high water, and
you wish to continue through the Narrows —
Bring the Red Buoy to bear N. by W. i W., and steer direct for it. You may go on
either side, by keeping it close on board, 'and after passing it one cable's length, steer
N. E. by N. for the Black Buoy, which you leave on your larboard hand, and after pass-
ing it half a cable's length, steer N. by W. for Delesdernier's Point, which yoB must
keep close on board.
After passing this point you must keep in the middle of the Narrows, due regard
being had to the tide, as it runs upon the flood and ebb from .3 to 5 knots.
Page 143.
PENOBSCOT RIVER.— From Seguine to Manheigan, the course is east; but
you must not bring Seguine to bear west, until you have' passed Bantam Ledge, as it
bears east, about 4 miles from S.^guine. Manheican is good land to run for. being bold.
There are several high rocks on the N. W. side, but vliey are also bold. From thence
to Whitehead, the course is N. E.; leaving Georgi <! and Mosquito Island on the lar-
board, and Matinic on your starboard hand. The latter is tbul. There are two rocks
offGror^e's Mrid^, ci!!c>] the Old Man ,^nd 0!u Wcin -.n. wuh a passage betv/aen
them. Th-:: firu i<ii more than a mile off. When'yoa ci \ see Mosquito Island to
91
722
ADDITIONAL APPENDIX.
the eastward of Geornfe's, you nre clenr of them. There U a ledge between George's
Island and Mosquito Island, called Scilly ; and also iinother about one-third of the way
from Matinic to Manheigan, called the Knavini; Bull, which latter bears about N. E.
J E. from Manheigan; but jou have a dear l)ay until jou come near Whitehead.
There is a ledge south by east A a mile from the Head, and several near the land to the
westward The Head is very bold. When a irttlc inside the Head, haul up nearly lor
the N. K. point of a large White Island, with trees on it, on the larboard hand, to avoid
a ledge called the Gangway Ledge. It lies directly off the mouth of Seal Harbour, and
about N. E. from the li^^ht. The course from Whitehead to the point of Ash Island is
N. E. The point of Ash Island is bold at low water, but at h\0\ water some of ihe
rocks are covered. There is a sunken ledge off this point, the kelps on which are seen
at low. water, called also Gangway Ledge, which you leave on the starboard hand.
Thence to Owl's Head, about N. N. E. The course from Owl's Head to Castine, is
N. E. by N. ; passing close to Mark Island, which is the first you come to, and leaving
several small islands and ledges on the starboard hand, Mark Island on the larboard.
The pa.ssage is here rather narrow, but with a fair wind there is no danger. The Bay,
however, is not so clear to the eastward as to the westward of Long Island. From
Owl's Head to Caiuden the course is N. by E. 10 miles, leaving a high rock called the
Graves on your starboard, and Negro Island, on which there is a lighthouse, on your
larboard hand. There are some sunken rocks between the Graves iind the northcin
point of the harbour, nearest the latter, which are on the starboard hand. From Owl's
Head up the Bay the course is N. N. E. easterly, to Sprnce Head, in Northpoit, 7
leagues. You jjuss a good harbour on Long Island side, called Gilkey Harbour. It is
easy of access, but is baf* to find in the night, the bmd back being higher than that in
front of the Harbour. Here a lighthouse is much needed, as it is the best harbour in
the whole Bay. It lies directly o^pposite Ducktrap From Spruce Head to Old Fort
Point, the course isN. E. 5 leagues, leaving Belfast and ^ 'ape JcUison Harbours on tln'
larboard hand. If you wish to harbour in Cape .Tellison, you enter with Brigadier
Island on the larboard hand, keeping it nearest aboard, as there is a long ledge makes oii
fr^m Squaw Point on the starboard hand, wliich is covered at high water. There is u
Icvige off Fort Point in a southerly direction, called Fort Point Ledge, a half a mile or
more. It lies S. S. E. and N. N. W^, and is bare at half tide. There arc two r>uo_vs,
one off each end of it. There is a lighthouse on the Point, near which it is so uoi'
that there is a good channel between that and the ledge for beating. The exlremo
point, however, to the eastward of the light, is shoal, and you must give it a good herili.
When you have turned this point, you have an excellent harbour on the larboard hand,
called Fort Point Cove. There is one small rock near Sandy Point, on which there are
about 7 feet at low water, near which there is a log buoy placed. From Fort Point lo
Bucksport Narrows, the course is north, 5 miles. Above Sandy Point lies. Odom's
Ledge, which is nearly covered at high water. You may go either side of it, but the
eastern is the best channel. When you open Bucksport village, your course is N. E,
f of a mile, when you will open Marsh Bay, N. W., at the head of which is Fianklort
village, 6 miles. Run up midway till youc^me near Marsh lliver, on ilie larboard
hand. The point on the opposite side of the Bay is called Drachm Point, from which a
flat extends f the distance across to Marsh River, on the end of which a buoy is placed.
Should you not see the buoy, shut Pickard's Point on McKeni5ie''=' Point a hanilspike's
]ength, and run until you fairly open the reach to Oak ]*oint ; ickard's Point is the
lahd on the S. E. side'of Marsh lliver, and McKenzie's Point is the first point on the
Starboard hand above Bucksport village. From Marsh River to Oak Point the course
is N. E. 5 miles ; good anchorage all the way. Thence to llinkley's E. by N. ' ol' :i
mile. Thence to Mill C.eek N. by E. 1 mile, leaving Buck's Ledge, on which there is
aspire and ball, on the starboard hand. Thence to Bald Hill, N. W. by W. li mile,
Thence to Higgins', N. N. E. I mile. Thence to Bragdor's Castle, N. E. ^ of a mile.
Thence to Crosby's, N. N. E. 2 miles. Thence through Crosby's Narrows N. E.^l
mile. Thence to' Crosby's Old Wharf N. N. E. \ mile. Thence to Brewer Village',
E. Smiles. Thence to Mitchel's Steam Mill N. E. by N. \ mile. Thence tu
Hip!
;.hhead, N. E. J mile. Thence to Bangor, N. E. by N. J of a mile.
Pa (res 157— IGl.
PORTSMOUTH HARBOUR.— A black spar buoy has been placed on Cod Rod
near P^ort Point, at the entrance of Portsmoutli harbour, in thirteen feet of watei.
Vessels passing into the harbour, by leaving this buoy ou the larboard hand thirty lert
distant, will have six fathoms of water.
A black spar buoy has also been placed on the ledge at the N. E. point of Amazeeii's
Island, in ten feet of water. Vessels passing up the harbour, by leaving this buoy oa
' the larboard hand, thirty ^^'cet distant, will have nine fathoms of water.
water name
ADDITIONAL APPENDIX.
723
A bluck spar buoy lias also been placed at the eastern edge of Sunken Rocks, in ten
feet of water, beiiritij;; about East, from the inouument on said rocks. Vessels passing jjpp
up the harbour, by luaving tins buoy on tlic larboard hand, forty feet distant, will have •
.seven fathoms of water.
Two spar l)Uoys have also been placed as j[;uidcs, in entering Spruce Creek harbour,,
to wit: a White Buoy on the S. W. point of Hitks' Rocks, in fourteen feet of water/^
and a Hiack Buoy on .Tanmica Point, in ten feet of water. Vessels entering Spruce
Creek harbour, by leaving the White Buoy on the starboard hand, thirty feet distant,
will have five fathoms of water; and by leaving the Black Buoy on the larboard hand,
fifty feet distant, will have six fathoms of water.
After passing tlie two last mentioned buoys, about one huiuired fr°t, vessels may
anchor in seven fathoms of water, in good muddy bottom, and by kee])ing in mid-
diannel, and running about N., may anchor in the creek, in six or seifen fathoms.
N. B. Hicks' Rocks are under water at about two-thirds tide; and the depths of
water named in the jireceding directions, were taken at low water.
Page 159.
NEWBURYPORT. — The directions given for entering this harbour, we are in-
formed, are not at |)resent correct, in consequence of the shifting of the Bar. The di-
rections state that " You must keep the lights in a range, and run for them, until with-
in a cable's length of the Eastern Light." We have not been as yet informed of the
correct directions for entering this dangerous harbour; and it is advised in all cases to
take a i>ilot.
Paqe 163.
IPSWICH BAY. — Two lighthouses have been erected on Ipswicli Beach, which
will lie lighted on the first of December next. The lights bear from each other \V. one
(|iiarter N., and E. one quarter S. Keeping the two lights in one, will lead over the
Bar in the best water, a little to the S. of the buoy. Run in close to the beach, and
follow it uj) close to, to avoid the Northern Spit on the starboard hand ; run tip round
the (irst high blullliead, where will be found safe anchorage. There are eight feet of
water on the bar, at low water.
Paircs 191-197.
AVAREnA.M HARBOUR, Buzzard's Bay.— This harbour can only be attempted
in the day time; and the only safety is to keep in between the buoys, of which there
arc nine in number, leaving, in going in, the Black Buoys on the starboard hand, and
the White on the larboard. Lieut. Sturges, of the revenue cutter McLane, has fur-
nished us with a particular description of the buoys, which, however, it is not neces-
sary to insert.
Page 198. Note.
l?LOCK ISLAND Lights. — Two new lights have been recently erected in place of
tlie old ones. Tliey are built one-third of a mile nearly due south of the old ones ; are
a few feet higher, and the distance between them is 40 feet.
Page 201.
FISHER'S ISLAND.— The following remarks and directions, by Capt. Andrew
Mather, of (^. S. revenue cutter Wolcott, are for sailing through" the Race :
Vessels bound eastward through the Race, in the niglit, when abieast of Gull Island
Light, with the tide of flood and a leading wind, should steer E. by S., or E. S. E.,
until Gull Island Light be;irs W. by S.; prei^erve that bearing until they see Stoning-
ton Light over the low land of Fisher's Island ; they are then clear of Race Point and
Race Rock. The spring tides in the Race run about five knots per hour; neap tides
aJjout four knots. High water, full and change, at 11 o'clock. The first half flood
sets N. W., the last half about W. N. W. ; -consequently, when steering E., or £. by N.,
which is the " Sound Course," they have a strong tide on the starboard bow, which cuts
them over to the northward, and instead of making, as they suppose, an East, or East by
North course, which often carries them on Race Point, from which runs off. far o%^ a '
reef of rocks, under water. From conversations with the masters and pilots of ship-
wrecked vessels, I have been led to believe that the cause of most of the losses that have
taken place, may be attributed to their mistaking the tides.
Pages 214-219.
NEW YORK HARBOUR— The' buoys to mark out Gedney's Channel to the
northward and eastward of Romer, are ten in number, and with the following distin-
uuishing marks. Those on the larboard hand coming in, are black and white, iti fe^ti.
y.ontal stripes; those ou the starboard hand, red and black. -■!&
•T/W
ADDITIONAL APPENDIX.
r*
The first buoy on Mi* larboard hand coming in, is iu !20 t'cet water.
The second buoy •' " " " " I'J "
It third *' " " ' " " " " 134 " "
«t fourth '* " " " " " " 24 " "
tt fifth " " " '* " " " 24 " "
The first buoy on the stnrboard hand coming in, is in 19 feet water.
The second buoy " " •' " 19 " "
" third " " " " " " 24 "
«4 fourth " " *' '* " *' 24 "
t( fifth •' '• <' <' •> >< 24 "
II
It
The above nai led buoys arc phiced in the shoalest water in the channel, and on the
edge of the banlis which form the channel; and in no one case must a vessel stretch
beyond the buoys on either side.
There is a true tide setting through the channel, the time of high water the same as
at the Hook, viz. full and change 7h. 35 min.
The course in, after entering the channel, is W. N. W. by compass, until the Hook
and Highland Lights are in range. Keep these in range, and run up for the Narrows,
which will carry you clear of every thing.
To the northward of the bijck buoy off the Bar, the following spar buoys have been
placed. Those on the larboanl hand coming in, are black, with white tops ; and those
on the starboard hand, white, with black tops.
The 1st buoy on the larboard hand is- in 31 feet water.
2d *' " " " " 24 " " tl
1st •' •' starboard " " 30 " " »■
0(] <> i> '( ii 11 ')4 '1 i>
The flood tide sets, first half, N. \V., last half S. W. All the above depths aio at
low water.
The spar buoys at the entrance will bo changed in the spring, and can-buoys, with
the same marks will be put down.
Page 228.
POTOMAC RIVER — A Floating Light is anchored on the end of the Bar that if
runs off Upper Cedar Point, on the Maryland shore, and her light was exhibited fur
the first time, on or about the 11th October, 1837.
Page 245.
ST. AUGUSTINE. — Two miles distant from the Island of Anastasia, and nine
miles from St. Augustine Light, S. E. by S. from the light by compass, there has been
recently discovered a fresh water fountain, about 100 feet diameter, appearing like
breakers.
Page 277. Note.
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 31, 18.37 — In consequence of the injury sustained by the
late gale in the machinery of the lighthouse at South Point, that light will be seeti sta-
tionary until further notice.
Page 279- Note.
TIMB ALTER ISLAND. — A lighthouse is represented to be erected on this island.
This is an error ; there is no lighthouse on this island.
ERRATA.
Page 152. 8th line from bottom, in description of Portland Harbour, for "at the
distance of 3,000 feet, read 300 feet.
Page 148. 15th line from top.— Moose Peake Reach.' — The«course given is N. E
by N. It should be N. E. by E.
Page 138. Note f. The bearing of Baker's Island Light from Titmanan ligii:.
should be W. S. W. instead of £. .S. JE. ; and the bearing ofBaken
Island Light from Moose Peckhead Light, should bo W. S. U.
westerly.
Page 202. Note §. New London Light is represented as bearing E. N. E. tram
Littfe Gull Light, it should be N. by E.
*'-^\>mA
ADDITIONAL APPENDIX.
JULY 1, 1838.
\ on this island,
E. N. E. Iioin
ll
GEORGE'S SHOAL— Pa^c 165.
A survey of this Shoal has been made by Lieut. Wilkes and others, in the U. S. brig
"Porpoise. Wo annex, from his report to Congress —
" The shoalest water found on any part of the Bank was 2J fathoms, or 15 feet, re-
duced to low water ; and this is only to bo found in two small places, viz.
Lat. 41° 40' 13" Long. 67" 44' 10"
Lat. 41 40 33 Long. 67 44 30
" The whole of the Shoal is composed of hard sand-spits — fine sand on the shoalest
places, and coarser as the water dec-pens, until it becomes large pebbles without sand."
" The rise and fall of tides is 7 feet, extremely regular, the first part of the flo6d set-
ting N.N.W., the latter part N. by E., and ebb S.S.E. and S. by W. The flood runs
4^ hours, ebb 5-2 hours ; greatest velocity two and six tenths of a mile, from half an hour
lo two hours in changing, going round with the sun on from North by way of East. The
wind has but little efiect on the velocity. High water, at full and change, at 10 o'clock
•30 minutes. Variation of the compass 8° 15"."
RACE POINT— Prt^Tc' 177.
An accurate and very detailed survey of this point has been made under the direction
of Major J. D. Graham, U. S. engineer. From his observations on the tides, ivhich
are very full, we extract —
" High water, at full and change, from 10 40 to 11 30 A.M. Spring tides rise 14 feet,
neap tides 11 feet.
" Between Long Point and Race Point the tide runs from 3 to 4 knots, generally pa-
rallel to the direction of the shore."
PROVINCETOWN HARBOR— i^a^c 178.
High water, at full and change, from 10 120 to 11 20 A.M. Spring tides 14 feet, neap
tides ') feet.
Page 21] . — A light vessel has been moored on the N.E. point of Stratford Shoal, (the
Middle Ground.)
Page 216. — A light ship with two lights, the forward one 30 feet aboVe deck, and the
after one 40 feet, has been moored in 13 fathoms water, Sandy Hook Lighthouse bear-<
ing W.N.W., distant 13 miles.
ST. AUGUSTINE— Fa^e 245.
The bar at the entrance of this harbor has opened in a new place. In crossing the
bar, with the Lighthouse bearing W. by S., steer W.S.W., which secures 14 feet at high
water.
The following liable of the Times
observation, made
of High Water and Else of the Tide, is from actual
by request of (he British Admiralty.
11. M.
Eastport, Maine 11 13
Mount Desert Island 11 10
Portland, Maine ] 1 10
Portsmouth, N. H 11 30
<Tloucester, Massachusetts. 11 59
Boston 11 31
Newport 7 39
Warren 8 5
Nantucket 12 31
Gardiner's Bay 9 55
New York 8 37
Sandy Hook 7 35
Delaware Breakwater 7 35
FT.
m.
22
10
13
4
12
2
10
4
12
8
14
8
6
6
8
2
6
3
5
6
6
7
1
6
4
Old Point Comfort 8 27
Gosport, Virg. navy yard . . 9
Cape Hatteras 5 43
Cape Fear River 7 14
Charleston , . , 7 21
Savannah 8 9
St. Augustine 8 4
Thompson's Island, Key W.
Florida 9 53
Tampa Bay
Pensacola navy yard ,....,
Mobile Point
FT. ijr.
3 9
4 5
6 6
6 11
7 11
8 5
6 7
2
3
2
2
6
3
3
1
REMOVAL.— The Nautical Establishment of E. & G. W. Blunt is removed tv
179 Water street, corner of Burling slip.
05^ Chronometers, Astronomical, Surveying and Nautical Instruments for sale.
June, 1838.
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June, 18;
]\AUTICAL WORKS,
rUBLISIIKP Art I) SOLD, WIIOLESALK AND RETAIL, BT
EDMUND & GEORGE W. BLUNT.
Ifo. 154 Water itrcct, corner of J!Ialdcn Laiio, Ifvw York.
nooKS.
«OWDTTCH'S NAVIfi/VTOR, stereotype edition.
MLIJNT'S AMERICAN COAS'I' IMI.OT, i:uh edition.
MERCHANT AND SHIi'MAS TKR'S ASSISTANT.
THE EXPEDITIOUS MEASURER, stereotjiHjd, to hIiow the solid contenti of
packnt'es and citsk.s.
SEAMANSHIP AND NAVAL TACTICS, second edition, with PLATES.
NAUTICAL ALMANACS, Cmin IHU to 1H:58, inclusive.
WARD'S LUNAR TABLES, second edition.
CHARTS.
A CHART of Magnetic Curves of eqnal variptions, between the lat. €0° N. and 65° S.
from the most recent observations, by P<-/Kr Barlow, l<\ R. S.
Do. extending from Monf.iuK Point to Cape Antonio, improved by the Ooverniaent
surveys, witli Plans of the piiioipal Harbors.
Do. of the Mississippi River, with plan of Mobile, 8rc.
Do. from New ilew York to Nova Sl^otia, including d'eorge's Bank.
Do. of the Atlantic or Western Ocean, with i)lans of (Jeorge's and Nantucket Shoals,
and the Virgin Rocks, on large scales, from actual surveys up to 1832.
Do. of the South Atlantic Ocean, containing more authentic information than any ex-
tant.
Do. of the Coast of Brazil, from the Line to the River Plate, on a large scale, with
plans of Harl)ors.
A NEW CHART of the West Indies, on six sheets, to be had separate, from the
Spanish, French, Danish, and English surveys; with plans of St. John's Harbor^
Porto Rico, St. Thomas. Port au Prince, Vera Cru/, Havana, Matanzas, dec. Ace, oa
large scales, together with views of land, including Commander R. Owen's receut
surveys of the Windward Passages, the Coast of Honduras, &c. &c.
Do. of the River Plate, on a large scale, from the late surve_ys, with sailing directions.
Do. of the Coast of Guayana. — Do. of the Island of Bermudas, with sailing directions.
Do. of the Coast of Labrador. -Do. of Newfoundland — Do. of New London Harbor.
A NEW CHART of Long Island Sound, surveyed by Edmund Blunt, in the years
1828, '29, and '30.
NEW CHART of New York Harbor, from Barnegat to Fire Island Inlet, on a scale
of 35 inches to a degree, from actual surveys made in the years 1821, '22, '23, and '24,
by Edmund Blunt. The surveys of Long Island Sound and of New York Harbor,
are the only surveys -vcr taken of the entrances of the Port of New York.
Do. of Bahama Banks and Florida Coast, on a square and large scale ; the Bahann
Banks, frona the surveys made in the sloop Orbit, and by the British Go\ ernment by
De Maine; the Coast of Florida, from U. S. Government Surveys, to the present
date, (1834,) intended with the Bahama Banks, to complete tlie whoJe p'lorida Coast
of the United States.
Do. from New York to Nova Scotia, on a square and large scale, in which all the sur-
veys recently made are introduced.
Do. of the Southern Coast, on a square scale, from Fire Island Inlet to St. Augustine,
containing more information than any other chart extant, with plans of New York, St.
Augustine, St. John's, E. F., and Charleston, S. C. Harbors, and Capes Hatteraij
Fear, and Lookout, on large scales.
FOR SALE AS ABOVE, a complete assortment of the most improved Charts and
Nautical Books of all parts of the world. Nautical Instruments of all kinds. Nauli-
cal Instruments repaired with care and despatch.
N. B. This establishment being exclusively Nautical, gentlemen may depind OB
finding the most recent and useful Nautical intelligence.
June, 1837.
91
ClIUONOMKTEUS.
'^hri inrrcsKed n!«p of riir«nt>rnrti<rs by Nmiticiil nirn, nn<l flieir Rrrat imimrlnnrr, bai
Ktlucinl till! iiubHciil)ori» to make Hrnui^eiiieiita (u Niipply llif»t> valustblu iuHtruiiiciiiii to
asir frirnilH. *
In order ti» br enabled to ascertain and rerify the rate of Chronometers, ibe Kuhiicri-
Iters havo erected an Observatory at lirookiyn, and lurniNhed it with a Transit liislrii-
ment, two AHtronoinical Clockrt with Mcrcuriul I'cnduluiiiH, Circle, und other nece8<i;iiy
UixtruincntN.
The subscribers have now on hand Chronometers made by Arnold \ Dent, and olhpr«,
None will be ollered for sale except those which have been subject to a snflicient tri;il,
and which can bo warranted lo perform well, from a critical examination of iheirpre-
rious rates, coinpated with the rates given by the munufacturer, .ind the rates while Id
our possession.
The above named makers have received premiums from the Hoard of Ijongitude in
England, for the excellence of the performance of their instruments. We subjoin 3q
account of the performance of two made by Arnold & Dent, which were placed in tlir
Koyal Observjlory, with ten others of their make, for the purjiose of determining some
experiments on Chronometers, with a view to their improvement.
RATES OF CIIRONOMETKRS.— KOVAL 015SERVATORV.
AkNOLD & J)EiVT. — No. 5'Jl.
Juno. July. Auq. 8c|il. Oct.
// // y/ i/ '/
» Mean daily variation, .... 601
Extreme variation, l-'J
5-lrt
.'j-13
5-.'54
6 -.34
M
1-!)
10
1-05
Arnold A: Dekt. — No. (u(j.
3u\y. Aug. Hu|)t.
Mean daily variation, . 0-00
Extreme variation, . . l-l
Oct.
Nov.
Dee.
0-37
O-.-Jl
0-.'>3
O-.TJ
o-.ir?
11
\-2
1-2
1-0
10
Arnolo 6c Dknt. — No. 114.
Actual extreme variation in 12 months, 0"54.
This Chr^inoraeter took the first premium in 1829, at the Royal Observatory, it haring
the least sanation of any Chronometer yet recorded.
These instruments, though very superior, have been equalled by many others by the
■ame manufacturers. Out of eight Chronometers on board H. M. Surveying Sbip
Blossontf Arnold & Dent's proved the best ; and of twenty-two Chronometers embarked
ftj H. M. Surveying Ship Beagle, Capt. Fitzroy, No. G63, made by Arnold & Dent, was
the moat accurate, and gave the longitude of Rio within one minute in space of the
mean resulting from the whole number. So close an approximation is convincing proof
of the accuracy of their instruments. And it need not be feared that this accuracy will
not continue. It is the result of a division of labor, a profound chemical knowledge of
the qualities of metals, with a series of numerous and singular experiments, fostered bj
the care of the British Government, and rewarded by annual premiums.
These valuable but delicate instruments, besides requiring great care in their use,
are frequently in want of repairs; to make their business complete in relation to Chro-
nometers, they sent for, and now have in their cm|)loy, a workman brought np to the
business, and highly recommended by one of the first Chronometer makers in London.
In many cases an old Chronometer requires but few repairs or alterations to make il
})erform well, and these repairs, made under the direction of the subscribers, will beai
aithfully done as they could be done in London.
The subscribers will determine the rates of Chronometers, and all Chronometers Ifli
with them will be carefully attended to.
New York, June, 1837. E. & G. W. BLUNT.
' .!#"
yWH
importanrr, lai
} iuHtruiiiciitR tu
er«, the subgcri-
, 'rraiisit liiMrit-
other necessiiiy
lent, and others,
it Miiflicieiit triiil,
i«)ii ol their pre-
10 rates while Id
of liongitude is
Wi" «nl>join iQ
!rc phiicd in llie
L-terniining sone
TORY.
•if
Oct.
It
6*34
1'06
Dee.
0-35
•vatory, it haring
ny others by tlie
Surveying Ship
meters embarked
loJd & Dent, wai
in space of the
Ronvincing proof
lis accuracy will
:al knowledge of
ents, fostered bj
I.
ire in their iisf,
elation to Chro-
ought up to the
ikers in London.
:ions to make it
fibers, will be aj
hronometers Ifli
W. BLUNT.
'^||k-
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