Cape Charles Inner Harbor Nears Construction Milestones; Boating Season Picks Up

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — As boating season ramps up, the Cape Charles Harbormaster reports significant progress on several waterfront improvement projects and a steady uptick in marina activity.

Construction on the Inner Harbor bulkhead and pilings is nearing completion, with the addition of a new piling near the boat ramp to better secure the kayak dock. Simultaneously, Phase 1 of the boardwalk is also close to wrapping up. The newly installed composite decking has already drawn positive feedback for its durability and appearance.

Several finger piers on the center dock were recently upgraded with new decking, and the busy fuel dock remained active throughout the week. Meanwhile, American Water completed a full replacement of all water meters at the harbor, causing only brief interruptions in service last Thursday and Friday.

In anticipation of summer traffic, the harbor has signed two new annual contracts for the 2025-26 season and hired two new seasonal dockhands. Training for the new hires will begin next weekend, although a few seasonal positions remain open.

Harbor staff welcomed several transient vessels over the weekend, including a unique 85-foot World War II crash boat, the P-520, which arrived from Crisfield, Maryland.

As of this week, the harbor has confirmed 163 transient reservations, totaling 578 nights, with an average stay of 3.5 nights.

To enhance comfort for visitors, pergolas have been ordered for the picnic area in front of the bathhouse, with assembly scheduled to begin in late April or early May. A gas grill will also be added to the area for the enjoyment of slip holders and transients.