Approaches
The southern approach, up from Gloucester, is discussed in detail under Blynman Canal. Remember that depths in the Annisquam River change year to year, and that even a five foot draft may stumble in places near low tide. In 2002, the controlling depth was about 4-1/2 feet on an average low.
From the north, find Red & White "AR" in Ipswich Bay. The channel into Annisquam is straight and well marked, of no particular difficulty in most conditions. The dredged portion is subject to shoaling, however, adding an unwelcome excitement to transit at low water. In 2002, we saw 5.8 feet down the middle at average low.
Anchorages
There is no room to anchor comfortably in Annisquam. Boats will drop the hook off Wingaersheek Beach for the afternoon, but swinging room is limited by moorings, the bottom drops off steeply into the channel, and the current runs hard.
Moorings
Annisquam is part of Gloucester, but the Gloucester Harbormaster does not maintain a full-time presence at this end of the river. There are two sources for moorings in Annisquam; both organizations have a handful for visitors.
The Annisquam Yacht Club is just west of Lobster Cove. Their guest moorings are big white balls across the channel from the clubhouse, with deep water, room to swing, and good protection from all but a strong northerly. On a pleasant summer evening, though, as the stream of boats passes by, you'll feel the energy of a sidewalk cafe or the charm of a roadside picnic table, depending on your frame of mind. The Annisquam Yacht Club has launch service and showers
Lobster Cove Market and Marina oversees a number of moorings within Lobster Cove, some of which may be available for visitors. The moorings are well sheltered from all weather, and removed from the traffic in the river. Taking advantage of its placid conditions, Lobster Cove is packed as tightly with boats as any harbor in New England. The mouth of Lobster Cove is guarded by a ledge, covered maybe 5 feet, making it inaccessible to most keelboats for an hour or two either side of low water. Note that when entering, Can "11" is a mark for the river, and must be left to starboard. The passage into Lobster Cove is between C"11" and the Green & White beacon near shore.
Slips
There are no slips specifically for transients, although you may be able to arrange for tie-up space at the Lobster Cove Marina float.
