Rose Buddies History:
The Rose Buddy tradition has a long history that supports the City’s reputation as the “Harbor of Hospitality.” The first Rose Buddies were Fred Fearing and Joe Kramer. These two hosted an impromptu wine and cheese party for boaters visiting the docks at Mariners’ Wharf after church one evening. This event took place for the first time in September 1983. Kramer clipped roses from his yard, while Fearing collected wine, cheese doodles, chips, and cups.
A memorial to their services can be seen at Mariners’ Wharf. Current Rose Buddies offer roses and help with lines at your arrival. They also help mariners orient to services, supplies, and entertainment in Elizabeth City. We hope you return many times.
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Harbor of Hospitality
Contacts:
Elizabeth City Tourism
400 South Water Street, Suite 100 or (252) 335-5330
Rose Buddies (channel 13)
Dan Smith – North of Bridge, (336) 681-0575 (Maritime Ministries/MACU)
David Fynn – South of Bridge (440) 667-2377 (Pasquotank River Yacht Club)
Barry Keyes – South of Bridge (252) 333-2995 (Pasquotank River Yacht Club)
Whether south or north, any Rose Buddy will help you.
FAQ:
EC Bridge opens “on-demand,” call VHF channel 13, 24 hours a day except 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays.
Docking – Mariners’ Wharf offers free slips on a first-come, first-served basis, located south of the bridge. Mid-Atlantic Christian University (MACU) and Jennette Brothers offer free side-tie docking north of the bridge. However, registration at the offices is required for the Jennette Brothers. If you’re willing to pay a fee, Lambs Marina is an option, offering fuel, power, and water. It’s located three miles north of the EC bridge.
Showers/toilets- Mariners’ Wharf showers and toilets are open 8 AM to 5 PM through the single green door under the green awning. Showers require a code and a $5.00 fee paid to a Rose Buddy or Elizabeth City Tourism office at 400 South Water Street. MACU offers free restrooms and showers at their gym, please get in touch with their dockmaster.
Water – MACU offers free water.
Register Your Stay
We are so excited to have you stay at our docks. Please fill out the registration form below to let us know you are here: