Author: O.K. Hogan | REALTOR®/BROKER, CCIM, SFR

When searching for waterfront homes in Morehead City, one of the most crucial factors for boat owners is finding properties with excellent deep water access. The Crystal Coast's premier fishing town offers several neighborhoods where homeowners can enjoy direct access to navigable waters, but some areas clearly stand out above the rest.

Sugarloaf Island: Premium Deep Water Living

Sugarloaf Island consistently ranks as the top choice for serious boaters seeking Morehead City waterfront homes. This exclusive neighborhood offers some of the deepest water access in the area, with many properties featuring 8–12 feet of water at mean low tide. Homes here typically come with private docks and direct access to the Newport River, providing an easy route to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean.

The protected waters around Sugarloaf make it ideal for larger vessels, and the quick ocean access means you can be fishing offshore within 30 minutes.

The Moorings: Convenient Canal Living

The Moorings neighborhood features an intricate canal system that provides excellent deep water access for most boat sizes. Properties in this area typically offer 6–10 feet of water depth, making it suitable for boats up to 40 feet or larger, depending on the specific location within the development.

The canals connect directly to Bogue Sound, offering protected waters and relatively quick access to Beaufort Inlet. Many homes here feature concrete seawalls and floating docks, adding to the convenience factor.

Radio Island: Industrial-Strength Deep Water Access

While Radio Island may not have the residential density of other neighborhoods, the waterfront properties available here offer some of the most robust deep water access in Morehead City. The island’s location provides direct access to the Newport River and Morehead City Port, with water depths often exceeding 12 feet.

This makes it particularly attractive for owners of larger sportfishing boats or small yachts.

Waterfront Drive Area: Historic Charm with Modern Access

The established neighborhoods along Waterfront Drive and surrounding streets offer a mix of deep water opportunities. While water depths can vary significantly from property to property, many homes here provide 6–8 feet at low tide with direct access to Calico Creek and the Newport River.

The area’s proximity to downtown Morehead City adds convenience for provisioning, dining, and boat maintenance.

Important Considerations for Waterfront Buyers

When evaluating Morehead City waterfront homes for sale, it’s essential to verify actual water depths at your specific dock location, as depths can vary dramatically even within the same neighborhood.

Verify Water Depths at Your Dock

Always request a recent survey and consider having the water depth professionally measured during different tide cycles to avoid surprises after closing.

Tide Variations and Professional Surveys

Water depth readings should account for mean low tide and seasonal fluctuations, especially if you plan to dock a larger vessel.

Bridge Clearance and Navigational Limits

Additionally, factor in bridge clearances if your boat has significant height. The Morehead City high-rise bridge provides 65 feet of vertical clearance, but some canal areas may have lower fixed bridges that could limit access for boats with tall towers or outriggers.

Matching Boat Size to Neighborhood Access

Whether you're docking a center console for inshore fishing or a larger sportfisher for offshore adventures, matching your boat’s draft and height to the neighborhood’s access is critical.

Working with a local real estate agent who understands the nuances of waterfront properties will help ensure you find the perfect combination of deep water access and residential amenities.