Reviews: Thunderbolt Marine

Reviewed by: Gary Miller on Oct 14, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 76'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Frank, dockhand, was very helpful, 50 amp was good for 100 amp boat, dockside fresh water good pressure, 20' depth at dock, no courtesy car after 6 pm,

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Reviewed by: Janeen Axtell , Toes in the Water, on Aug 15, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 53'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

We stayed with Thunderbolt Marina one night until our boat could be hauled out and put on the hard so that the yard could have the props reconditioned. Keith and Glenn in the yard were excellent to work with and the props were worked quickly and the communication was good. We had to move off the boat, of course, while she was on the hard. We had some strange electrical issues while plugged in to 50A power while on the hard so you might watch that. Once a tropical depression moved through town we launched again and we stayed with Thunderbolt Marina a couple of nights. Mark, Greg, and Jeremy were excellent dockmasters and helped in any way possible (Jeremy even carried out my trash.) I had one docking in wind and current and Greg was excellent at guiding my first mate with the rope work. There is a courtesy car for provisioning. We did Uber into downtown Savannah a few times. Fares were $30-$40. Great restaurants are 1/2 mile up the road and very walkable unless it is scorching hot. Be aware that there is a compulsory charge for a pump out. Also, there may be a charge if you bring in an outside contractor to perform work on your boat. This will not be an issue if you coordinate with the yard first. Their mechanics seem to be very good and can handle pretty much everything you need. There are laundry facilities and nice restrooms and showers. They also have screened-in as well as outdoor areas to sit and relax. All in all Thunderbolt Marina is a great place, has a great staff, at a reasonable price to have work done or stay for a while around Savannah.

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Reviewed by: Bruce Krizmanic , S/V Inspiration, on Jun 26, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.7'

Rating: 5

The stop here was due to weather rolling in. The staff was great and made docking under high winds a breeze, pun intended. They were very helpful during our stay and we would stop here again.

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Reviewed by: Robert Hedrick , Morning Starr, on Jun 23, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 34'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Stayed here years ago and had a very bad experience but thought we would try it again. Stayed 5-25-24. Could not have been more pleased!! Jeremy, dock hand, was great. Helped us get tied up and out the next morning. He certainly changed our minds about Thunderbolt! Great stop!

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Reviewed by: David Waugh , Winds of Change, on May 24, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Great docks. Great staff. Bathrooms could use a little updating but still very good.

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Reviewed by: Rick Vicars on May 15, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 45'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

5-10-24 Our second stay at this marina, very friendly helpful staff. Floating secure docks, and a courtesy car for short trips to reprovision. A great place to stay while visiting Savannah.

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Reviewed by: Elizabeth Scott on May 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 51'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

Dockmaster was very helpful. Nice facilities. Walking distance to restaurants. Nice and quiet, well protected and easy to enter and exit.

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Reviewed by: William Mills , Reflections, on Apr 27, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.8'

Rating: 4

Great Dockmaster very helpful. Nice facility and easy in and out with a couple of restaurants close by.

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Reviewed by: Bev Hewitt , Blue Odyssey, on Apr 17, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

We've stayed here 2 times - 3 nights on our first trip, only 1 day this trip but definitely recommend and will stop again. Friendly and helpful on the docks, bathrooms were clean and great covered deck areas near the water. We used the courtesy car on our first visit - there is usually a waiting list and it is only available until 5 - but really nice to have the option for supplies!
We used Uber to get to Savannah quickly and brought our scooters to tour around - their location makes for a quick and easy ride.

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Reviewed by: Stephanie Malady on Apr 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

A positive experience from start to finish. We spent three nights on the face dock, two were reserved and a third was graciously added when we needed to get some engine maintenance completed and sit tight for forecasted high winds. The facilities are in good shape and the courtesy car is still offered. The captain found the 'crew lounge' and--especially if you have younger crew members or enjoy grilling-- you may want to inquire.

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Reviewed by: Tom Brown , Key 2 Cay, on Apr 4, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

The staff and facilities were perfect for what we needed. A courtesy car allowed us to provision both food and supplies. The shower facilities were well-appointed. Laundry facilities provided what we needed at a reasonable rate. Greg and the staff were there to ensure our stays were safe and pleasant.

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Feb 29, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

This is my third stay at Thunderbolt and it remains one of my favorite marinas on the ICW. Excellent service from Dockmaster Greg. I love that the marina is so laid back and has everything I need to catch up after a bunch of nights at anchor: laundry, good showers, courtesy car, restaurants within walking distance, water, power, pumpout, and reasonably priced fuel. This time, I even fired up my ebike and rode into downtown Savannah -- it's just 5.5 miles -- for some shopping. I cannot recommend this place enough.

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Reviewed by: Wade and Mary Christensen , Lady Gov, on Dec 5, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Our first visit to Thunderbolt Marina has been fantastic. The facilities are top-notch. The dockhands made docking our boat easy, even in tricky conditions with currents and wind, especially since we were on an inside dock and we are new at boating.
We got the recommendation to stay here from brokers and yacht transporters, and it turns out they were spot-on. Thunderbolt has this incredible repair facility, making it our go-to place for any work we might need. . They have outstanding security and regular boat checks and while we were away from the boat, this gave us peace of mind.
Greg and the staff are not only friendly but also super helpful. Besides keeping an eye on our boat they also shared valuable tips about exploring the area. Thunderbolt isn't just a place to park boats; it's a haven for boaters looking for a peaceful spot with top-notch amenities, such as a loaner car, etc., along the Georgia coast. We're confident our boat is in good hands with the Thunderbolt team and we will stop again on our way back north!

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Reviewed by: Tim Fleming on Dec 4, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 5

Reserved a slip here to let some cold weather pass and ended up having some work done to correct a mis-installed boom vang and alternator. The marina staff was great upon arrival and the process of getting work done was easy and professional. John, Grant and staff quickly worked us in and were up front about pricing and set reasonable expectations. The work done was excellent. We will come here to have more service done on our boat for sure! Bonus - Loaner car at the marina was a big help for provisions! Thanks to Greg, Michael and the rest!

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Nov 25, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

This was my second stay at Thunderbolt and I would definitely stay again. Laid back marina with good rates and affordable fuel. Good showers, laundry, and courtesy car. (Please, folks! If a marina gives you a car to use for free, the least you can do is add fuel if the tank gets below 1/2 full!) Savannah is about $12-$15 away by Uber/Lyft. This trip, we bicycled to Bonaventure Cemetery and toured the beautiful grounds on Thanksgiving day.

Good Thai restaurant and several other restaurants within walking distance.

My only complaint is the confusion on my arrival about where I was supposed to park. (Oddly, this happened last time I was there, too.) I would definitely stay there again.

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Reviewed by: David Waugh , Winds of Change, on Nov 6, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Outstanding service (thanks Jeremy). Piers were fine but higher than others so rig your fenders higher. Bathrooms were clean. A short Uber ride to Savannah. We will be back.

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Reviewed by: Jim Louy , M/V Soulmates, on Oct 27, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

We stopped at Thunderbolt Marine for only a short while as we just needed a pump-out. The pump-out is at their fuel dock and is a wide-open approach if coming from the north. The current can be swift around the dock, so definitely do your best to dock against the current. The fuel dock is about a foot higher than most docks, so give your fenders a shorter tie. The dockmaster warned us of that ahead of time, so we were prepared… and thankful! Overall, a very accessible and quick place to stop.

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Reviewed by: Gary Miller on Oct 14, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 76'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

First class operation, 23' at face dock 4 hours after high tide, Dock hand Greg is superb, docks are great, $2.25' plus $15.00 for 50 amp, $30.00 for 100 amp., courtesy car available. Electric service is good.

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Reviewed by: Ron Winders , Three Sheets, on Sep 4, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 30'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Excellent service. The crew at the marina did a wonderful job getting us docked during a rip current and choppy conditions.
They were very knowledgeable and helpful with getting our boat fueled up and pumped out even though we did not have the proper fittings.
I would highly recommend Thunderbolt Marina for any of your fueling and pump out needs.

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Reviewed by: Erin Wreski , Water Wings, on Aug 1, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Great stop for a night as we cruised up the ICW. Pulled up and got fuel then just walked the boat up the dock away from the pumps for the night. We had about a 1 kt current while docking, but dock hand was great. Clean bathrooms, Laundry was $3 a load. Courtesy car for use allowed us to get over to West Marine and Kroger. We walked out the gate to Tubby's Tank house for dinner and drinks. Fun place.

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Reviewed by: Don Westmoreland , Never Land, on Jul 18, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Great dock hands, love the air conditioned large laundry, nice clean restrooms, outdoor screened room, and courtesy car! Easy dockage fuel and pump out.

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Reviewed by: Gary Miller on May 8, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 76'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Stayed here two nights, 5-1-23 and 5-2-23, nice floating docks, 100 amp power, took on diesel @ $4.72 per, dock $2.10 per foot, Boat US, $10.00 electric, great stop, great restaurants in downtown. Ruth Chris downtown.

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Reviewed by: Brenda King , Escapade, on Apr 30, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 53'
Draft: 4.9'

Rating: 5

Thunderbolt is a very nice marina with nice staff and great amenities including the use of a courtesy car - perfect for grocery store runs. There is also an awesome place nearby to get fresh, local shrimp right off the boat. (Nelson's)

We stayed 6 nights and really enjoyed exploring Savannah. It's such a walkable city with so much history and beautiful architecture.

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Reviewed by: Lori Pickette on Apr 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 37'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

This marina helped us when another marina where we had a reservation couldn't be reached vis VHF or phone once we got close. Because of impending weather, we had no choice but to backtrack an hour to Thunderbolt and I'm glad we did! The dock master was gracious enough to give us newbies an easy side-tie AND guided us in. I'm indebted to his kindness. Clean single sex bathrooms/showers, coin operated laundry ($1.50/load), courtesy car and small ships store make this a great stop if you understand this is an industrial marina not a tourist commercial stop.

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Reviewed by: Abroad Reach on Mar 21, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 37'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

This is a great stop for exploring Savannah and the surrounding area! The staff is helpful with lines coming in which is good because there can be a lot of current. Our stay on March 20th, 2023 was the first time we've been on an inside and not on the face dock which made getting in and out a little tricker as a sailboat with no bow thrusters but we managed even during unfavorable (albeit close to slack) current. The docks are large floating docks with many cleats. The marina is in a no-wake zone, however, there can be the occasional wake that affects those on the outside of the face dock. During three separate visits, we have seen marine patrol pulling folks over so it's surprising how often this still happens.

The bathrooms are clean, and as a plus, each shower/toilet room has a separate lockable door which is always appreciated. There are two washers and two dryers that worked well and were $1.50 a load.

I am sorry to the bearer of bad news, but the local Krispy Kreme has closed so no more donuts. But we were pleasantly surprised to have access to a courtesy car! We were able to take it the short distance to a Publix to stock up on some groceries.

An Uber downtown is about $15 (before tip) and definitely worth it! The city is beautiful and there are many great restaurants. We had a great brunch at the Collins Quarter on this trip! And the famous Leopold's Ice Cream is a must-try!

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Mar 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

I spent three nights here in early March 2023. I didn't get any donuts, but that does not impact my review.

I liked the place. There are several long floating docks and I was fortunate to be put on one of the inside ones. The river current is still strong there, but there was less motion from the wake of passing boats. Dockhand Greg assisted me, which was probably necessary with the current, which moves in either direction depending on the tide. The marina has a working boat yard and works on many very large boats. There was some noise on Thursday and Friday for that, but Saturday was quiet.

There are several restaurants within walking distance in the town of Thunderbolt. There's also a marine supply store in town.

The marina has a courtesy car that I used to visit Walmart, Publix, and yet another local marine supply store. (Ever notice that no one carries Volvo branded oil filters?)

Downtown Savannah is an Uber ride away. It cost $15 + tip each way. I highly recommend Savannah Glides History Tour by Segway if you want something fun and different. If you go on a Saturday, be sure to visit the Farmer's Market in Forsyth Park. From there, it's a long but very enjoyable (and easy) walk all the way to River Street where you'll find the usual tourist shops and restaurants. Vic's was excellent for lunch. The city has lots of history and amazing architecture; don't let $35 worth of cab fares keep you away from it.

The marina offers discounts for Boat US members on docking and fuel: 15¢. I topped off my tank before leaving for $4.76/gallon at a time when most ICW marinas are getting $5.50 or more.

It was a good stay. I'd definitely stay there again.

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Reviewed by: Xiaolun Sun , Anodyne , on Mar 4, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 32'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

Dockmaster Greg was very nice. Helped us with docking and answered all our questions. The marina was spacious with clean bathrooms and laundry and screened deck. Uber to Savannah was $16 OW. No Krispy Kreme, perhaps because we left early the next morning?

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Reviewed by: Michael Grogan , Shining Light, on Oct 29, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 25'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Dockmaster Hal was very helpful along with another dockhand. Nice laundry room and clean bathroom/showers. Gate code needed to access the marina so felt very safe. Tubby's Tank House was just a short walk and was top-notch (great food, great service, very clean restaurant - obviously a local favorite). The Krispy Kreme donuts were such a nice treat!

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Reviewed by: James Brace on Jun 6, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Stayed 2 nights. There is mention of busses to Savannah but that is old info. Used rideshare. Krispy Kreme delivered to the boat first morning!

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Reviewed by: Patricia And Steven Stanley on Mar 28, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 46'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

We enjoyed our 2 night stay at Thunderbolt marina. We arrived at slack tide (perfect), but there were high wind gusts. Hal, the harbormaster was great and helped us with the lines. This is a 5 star marina with everything we needed (bathrooms, showers, laundry, ships store, captains lounge) and a nice restaurant within walking distance. They also provide a complementary box of 6 Krispy Kreme donuts. Yummy!

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Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Mar 15, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

We had some sail drive problems. At first call Thunderbolt said calendar was full, but a few days later they called back with a schedule to get us in and the repairs done. This is a great facility with some pretty impressive equipment and capabilty. They were very professional and were able to get everything we needed done on time and at the quoted price.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Jan 14, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Thunderbolt has one long facedock for transients although those staying longer may be put on the land side of the facedock. The docks are very high so hang your fenders according. They have fuel but most importantly, they serve Krispy Kreme donuts every morning right to your boat (you'll be asked when you arrive if you want them). They have bus service to Savannah if desired and there are several restaurants within walking distance, most notably, Tubby's Tank House - don't miss the chance to eat there.

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Reviewed by: Joe Nord , Shamrock, on Jun 29, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Stayed here several days late Dec 2020 and had a great visit. Dockmasters Rob and Hal were kind and helpful. Laundry, power, internet, docks, everything worked and other transient folks staying here were very nice.

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Reviewed by: Michelle Dixon , Sunset , on Jun 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 45'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Loved this marina. Stayed June 10th thru 12th. The dockhands are extremely helpful. Donuts in the morning if you choose. We were placed on the face dock and it was perfect to watch the sunrise and sunset. They have a car to use shopping is close by. Gated area so no problem with people walking around. Bathrooms and laundry right on site. We will be back on our way back down the icw.

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Reviewed by: Robert Hedrick on Jun 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 34'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 1

Not a good experience for us. Stayed here one night 5-16-21. Called on the radio three or four times and got no response. Called on cell phone and got voicemail. Called again on 16 and got a person to answer. Was told to just turn into current and dock at end of face-dock. Asked if a dock hand would meet us and was told I was going into the current and shouldn't need any help. Other boaters helped us tie up. Were told men's showers were tore-up, just use the lady's showers. Only one working toilet while we were there. Never saw any Krispy Kreme donuts!

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Reviewed by: Gary Miller on May 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 76'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 1

On 4-25-21 Called 10-12 times and received no answer. Left a couple of messages and never received a return call to this date 5-17-21.

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Reviewed by: Earlene Schanze on May 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

We stayed here one night in May on our way to the Chesapeake. Nice facility and great dock masters. We were hoping for Krispy Kreme donuts in the morning but apparently supplies are limited. We would definitely stay here again.

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Reviewed by: Heath Phillips , Philyria , on Apr 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 5

Very nice facilities. Close to restaurants. Lots of mega yachts.

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Reviewed by: John Tyrell on Jan 11, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Nice location; clean restrooms, showers and laundry. Knowledgeable dockhands, especially Rob. Can be a swift current but easy docking if you take their advice. Extra perk to get six Krispy Kreme donuts dropped off on the boat first thing. Good diesel price and easy pump out at fuel dock.

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Reviewed by: Captain Ed on Jun 24, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 1

Donuts were good.
Nice to have use of courtesy car.
Good laundry room.
Very good marine supply nearby.
BUT
Showers were filthy. Big hair balls in one and thick layers of soap scum in the other.
No hot water.
WIFI did not work.
AND, COCKROACHES on the dock.

I sent these comments to two points of contact and heard back nothing.

Very disappointing experience.

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Reviewed by: Rob Irvine on Feb 9, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Very accommodating staff. Had to leave the boat longer than desired for personal reasons and was able to renew or reservation via Dockwa several times. Enterprise car rental close by. Not much in the way of eateries in the vicinity. Savannah is about 15 min drive from the marina. Laundry and restrooms clean. Gated facility.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Jul 1, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Friendly staff, easy docking, excellent washers and dryers - and - Crispy Creme donuts in the morning! We usually refuel here on our trips north or south.

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Reviewed by: Cliff Knowles on May 23, 2018
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 52'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

One of the best from Miami north to here. Dockmaster is wonderful. Courtesy car without any hassles. Strong current...no problem as docks are in line with current flow. And yes Crispy Cremes and coffee in the morning.

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Reviewed by: Andrew Skelton on Dec 9, 2016
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 4

Very friendly staff. Krispy Kreme donuts delivered to your boat, complimentary! Was surprised by the absence of retail marine supplies. Cheap Uber ride to downtown. Strong current at outside dock but dock is very long.

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