Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪkwə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the acronym "ICW" is based on the individual letters that comprise it. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription, "ICW" would be spelled as /ˈaɪ.siː ˈdʌb.ljuː/. The first two letters, "I" and "C", are pronounced as separate sounds: /aɪ/ and /siː/. The letter "W" is pronounced as a double-u sound: /ˈdʌb.ljuː/. Therefore, when spoken aloud, "ICW" would be pronounced as "eye-see-double-u."
ICW is an acronym that stands for "Intracoastal Waterway." It refers to a navigable route, primarily used for commercial and recreational boating, along the eastern and Gulf coasts of the United States. The ICW is a continuous inland waterway that enables vessels to travel through protected waters, avoiding the hazards of open seas.
The Intracoastal Waterway typically consists of a series of canals, rivers, bays, sounds, and inlets. It stretches for more than 3,000 miles, connecting rivers, estuaries, and harbors from Boston, Massachusetts to Key West, Florida, and continuing along the Gulf of Mexico to Brownsville, Texas. The ICW provides an alternative to venturing into the open ocean, making it safer for smaller vessels, pleasure boats, and commercial craft carrying goods.
Constructed and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the ICW often has markers, such as buoys, day beacons, and range lights, to guide boaters along the route. These markers indicate channels, shoals, and other navigational information essential for safe passage. Along the ICW, various amenities and services exist to serve the boating community, including marinas, fuel docks, restaurants, and lodging.
While the primary purpose of the ICW is to facilitate maritime transportation, it also provides opportunities for leisure activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It has become a popular travel route and scenic destination, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
