Marina Review for Pickwick Landing State Park Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

What a gem! Beautifully maintained state park. Simple and clean restrooms and laundry, but no showers on site. A recently remodeled park lodge and restaurant is about a 1 mile walk away with stunning views. They will send a van to the marina if requested.

Staff (Connie was on duty) is a first class guy and attentive to your needs. The marina is first-come-first-served, so no reservations. Slips, while plenty wide for a typical cruiser, are likely too narrow to fit two cruisers in. We are 14.5 ft wide and there is no way two of us would fit between a pair of finger piers.

All of that said, get off the boat and enjoy the numerous trails throughout this beautiful park.

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Marina Review for Florence Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Nice marina with extremely helpful staff. Recently re-wired with GFCIs. We had no issues with our 50A service, but heard that others have. If your boat is safe, it shouldn't be a problem.

Restaurant on site as surprisingly good. Just don't look too close...its kind of 'rustic' ;-)

Several restaurants in town which is walkable but have to cross a very busy street. Courtesy car is available for that or for a run for groceries/big box supplies on the other side of the river.

If heading upriver, its a great location for staging prior to Wilson Lock. Call the lock in the AM before casting off to avoid an unpleasant surprise.

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Free Dock Review for Ingalls Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Recently developed floating docks / boat ramp area. Several hundred feet of dock on the port side when entering, slightly less on the starboard. VERY large boat ramp and the far end, but the entire area is posted no-wake and had zero issues during our stay.

Clean restrooms in the grassy area near the docks and a gas station/convenience store a short walk away, other than that, nothing around unless you have a car.

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Free Dock Review for Guntersville City Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Well protected and good condition free dock. No power/water/restrooms (except for a couple of port-a-potties), but the water is deep and its free.

Downtown is a couple blocks away with several bars/restaurants. Its obvious that there is a substantial investment in the area and it will likely only become a better stop.

Word from the 'locals' is that in the same harbor that the free docks is located, there will soon be a couple of new restaurants and more shopping options. Slated to be completed in Spring of 2022.

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Marina Review for Erwin Marine Sales-Riverfront

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Erwin Marine operates several docks, we stayed at the 'Bluff' docks, the furthest upriver of their docks.

Good floating docks with power and water and gated entry. No restroom/showers/laundry or any other 'typical' marina amenities. However, the proximity to downtown Chattanooga can't be beat.

Easy walk to everything the town has to offer including many eating/driking establishments, the Tennessee Aquarium and a pinball museum...where for a flat entry fee, you can play all the machines all day until closing. They even offer 1/2 price admission to the first 30 people that arrive after opening at 1pm.

Publix and Whole Foods about a 1 mile walk across the pedestrian bridge.

Really, no complaints, but took a star off because of the lack of amenities available at the bluff docks.

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Free Dock Review for Shellmound Park Free Dock

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Oct 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Easy in/out Two docks with t-heads both approximately 40ft in length. The dock closer to the lock is slightly longer than the other. Both have good cleats, but they are positioned near the center of the dock. Plan to possibly use the steel pilings for bow/stern. Most of the rub rail is gone from the fixed wooden docks, so be sure to have adequate fenders placed accordingly.

If t-heads are occupied, still room for a total of four 40+ footers on the finger piers. Have not probed the depth, but it appears more than adequate for most cruisers.

Docks are adjacent to a Corp of Engineers park, boat ramp and campground. Clean (and heated) flush toilets in park adjacent to dock. No showers, electricity or water available.

Beautiful, quiet location, great staging spot for a morning down bound passage through Nickajack lock.

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Anchorage Review for Dover Island

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Oct 6, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Easy in/out. Sand/mud bottom with good holding. Only downside is that the anchorage is deep, so be ready to exercise all that rode.

Best shore access for doggo is about a mile down river at the park just downstream of the highway bridge. A short walk up the hill will get you the VERY small town of Dover with a restaurant and convenience store.

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Marina Review for Clarksville Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Oct 6, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Great location near town and in the middle of a large park area with lots of trails and open space for the doggies. Docks and facilities clean and in great shape.

Word of caution when entering/exiting basin. Be sure to 'square off' the turn from the river. When entering, pass the out of service floating fountain head CLOSE to starboard for best depth. Fountain head is unmarked and easy to mistake for floating trash. Do not attempt this at night! When we visited on 10/3, saw nothing less than 7 foot at the entrance bar. Go slow and use caution, but once inside the basin 12+ foot everywhere.

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Anchorage Review for Quiver Island

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Sep 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

As others have said, enter well downstream of the red boy off the tip of the island. We proceeded mid channel up to about where the anchor symbol is on this listing (just downstream of where the channel narrows a bit). The river was down a couple feet from normal at the time of this review, but we carried 7-8 ft all the way in. Anchor held firm and came up reasonably clean with just a bit of sand/mud.

Quick dingy ride downstream to public boat ramp on the LDB just past the nature center dock. The nature center dock appeared to be aground when we went by and quite high to be used as a dinghy dock. Boat ramp has a small floating dock, just be sure to leave the ramp side of the dock free for boat launching. Ramp is adjacent to a riverfront park with lots of room for doggies to roam.

Up the hill, to the right into town you will find a Dollar General and Ace Hardware as well as several neighborhood bars. Did not see a grocery, but didn't go look either. Continue about 3 blocks into town away from the water and you'll come to a city park. On the north side of the park is a Mexican restaurant with good food and drinks. No outside dining normally, but they did place a table outside and served us there to accommodate us with our dog. Great folks!

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Anchorage Review for Nicolet Bay - Peninsula State Park

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Sep 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Huge anchorage with sandy bottom. Can get busy with day boats however. The entire anchorage is within a very well marked no wake zone which everyone complied with.

Can land a dinghy on some sandy shore near the swimming area, but better choice is a small dinghy/kayak dock adjacent to the boat ramp.

Miles of trails to explore by foot or bike. Nothing except a camp store nearby, but if you're up for about a 4 mile (each way) bike ride, several restaurants and shops are available in Fish Creek.

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Marina Review for Egg Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Sep 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Nice, well protected marina but public has full access to docks. Shouldn't be an issue in Egg Harbor.
Office staff great, but be sure to closely supervise the dock hands. I'm not sure the ones on duty when we arrived ever dealt with a boat bigger than about 20 ft.

Great Mexican restaurant across from marina and one of the finest dogs parks just a short walk away. No water available, so bring your own, but lots of hills, trees and seating. Look for path in field across the street from the market for a shortcut.

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Marina Review for CenterPointe Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Sep 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Friendly, helpful staff, beautiful well maintained docks, restrooms/showers, boaters lounge, heated pool and hot tub. Truly a 'resort' setting.
Lots of wide open spaces for doggo, centrally located for easy access to both sides of town.

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Marina Review for Algoma Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Sep 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Friendly, helpful staff. Small, but well protected basin but only a single 30A service is available at each slip. Space along the river wall outside of the basin has 50A service available, but can get 'rolly' if any swell if coming off the lake.
Very nice winery is a short walk away and an outstanding bakery is very walkable (about 1/2 mile) across the bridge from the marina.

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Marina Review for Manitowoc Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Sep 3, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Great staff and facilities. Well protected and close to everything Manitowoc has to offer. Be sure to check out the Wisconsin Maritime Museum just a few steps away.

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Marina Review for Harrisville Harbor of Refuge

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Aug 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 2

As other harbors in Michigan, it is well sheltered with nice facilities. Unfortunately, the day we were there, the treatment we received from the staff was less than it could have been.

At least four employees on duty, three were obviously temporary 'summer' employees and they were great. Their 'leader' however was overwhelmed and out of control.

We were not the only ones to experience this treatment during our stay. Others on the docks that we spoke to expressed the same frustration.

With better leadership, this could be a nice stop on the lake.

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Marina Review for East Tawas State Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Aug 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Great marina, staff and town. Downtown is literally across the street from the marina and includes many shops, several restaurants, a movie theater and four ice cream shops. What's not to like?

Super Walmart about a mile from the marina via sidewalks and bike path.

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Marina Review for Harbor Beach Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Aug 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Another nice harbor on Lake Huron. Staff and facilities great, as we have become accustomed. Use the north entrance through the breakwater for easy access to the marina.

As of early August 2021, the marina basin is choked with weed, took considerable power to back out of slip upon departure.

About a mile walk into town via a paved bike/walk path. Unfortunately, most of the town is closed up. Not much going on other than a small grocery, hardware and one restaurant.

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Marina Review for Port Sanilac Municipal Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Aug 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Nice harbor, dock and facilities. The staff on duty while we were there were among the best encountered anywhere.

Short walk into town for groceries, hardware, restaurants. Nice stop for an overnight or a few days.

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Marina Review for Lexington State Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 27, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

Well protected harbor with good docks. 'Typical' state park restroom/shower facilities. Adjacent to a nice park area. Jeff's Market is a short walk for a small but well stocked grocery store.

The day we arrived, tried several calls on VHF and phone to get a slip assignment for our reservation with no answer. Attempted a slow pass by the fuel dock to get the assignment and the dock hand looked at us and walked away. Fortunately a friend was already at the marina and was able to relay the info.

Marina was severely understaffed and the attitude of the employee on duty gave the impression that she would have rather been somewhere else. Hopefully, she was just having a bad day and the reception is not typical.

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Marina Review for St. Clair Boat Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 26, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Excellent docks, facilities and staff. Many shops and restaurants are just a short walk over the bridge away.

Be aware, the Pine River bridge opens on the hour and half hour with downriver (outbound) traffic having right of way. Not a lot of room to maneuver, so plan accordingly.

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Marina Review for Jackson Creek Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Stayed here in early May 2021 and couldn't have been more pleased. Wonderful staff, docks and facilities in great shape. Even offered pumpout service at your slip. Onsite restaurant was closed the days of our visit, but it looked promising.

Courtesy car available for quick (2 hour) run to hardware, grocery and a marine consignment shop (Nauti Nell's) not to be missed.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Jefferson Beach

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Very large, well protected full service marina. Docks in good shape and staff very helpful, except don't expect help when arriving at your slip. Perhaps locals will lend a hand, but be prepared to go it alone.

Clean bath houses, two fenced dog runs, Kroger grocery store West Marine and other local marine supply stores as well as several restaurants within a mile walk/bike on sidewalks.

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Anchorage Review for Severn River - Bryant Bay

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Anchored here in early May 2021. Lots of room, but wasn't crowded when we were there. Good shelter from all quadrants except southeast. No current.

Found good place to land a dog up the cove with the no wake sign. Be sure to use the public landing and not the private one adjacent to it. Approx lat/lon :Lat: N 37° 19.917' Lon: W 076° 26.693'

Very quiet, good cell service.

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Marina Review for York River Yacht Haven

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Stopped here for fuel in early May 2021 and couldn't have asked for more. Nice docks, fast pumps, helpful staff and a fair price.

Fuel dock is kinda tucked away on the northeast side of the marina, but easy in/out once you see it.

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Marina Review for Ford Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

If you're a member of an affiliated club, be sure to inquire about transient availability.

Beautiful grounds, newly remodeled restrooms and a wonderful full bar/restaurant. Be sure to order the new chef's take on Calamari for an appetizer. The BEST Calamari you've ever had.

Dockmaster, club leadership and other members are all gracious and welcoming. Location is a great stopping point before transiting the river northbound.

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Marina Review for Riverwalk Landing Piers

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Located right downtown Yorktown. Docks and dockhands are excellent. Be sure to take the outbound current the flows through the docks into account when approaching.

Several eateries to choose from within short walking distance. The best carrot cake ever at the bakery just to the west of the marina.

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Marina Review for Waterside Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Staff and docks are first rate. The walk to the restrooms/showers can be a bit long depending on where you're located in the marina, but not bad.

Ideal location to visit Norfolk. Too many attractions to list. If you want to visit Portsmouth, its a short ferry ride over, but honestly there is not much there.

Waterside is THE place to stay while in Norfolk.

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Free Dock Review for Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Wonderful free dock along the canal. Co-located with a highway rest stop, but not really an issue. Staff in welcome center couldn't be nicer. Adjacent state park has nice trails to stretch your legs.

Room for three 40 foot boats along the fixed dock. No power/water. Canal wide enough to raft three abreast in needed.

Remember to go SLOW along the canal and enjoy the experience.

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Marina Review for Middle Bass Island State Park Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 21, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

State park marine located in west portion of basin. Friendly staff, easy to deal with but be advised, no assistance available with docking unless other boaters are on the docks to help.

VERY well sheltered, well marked, deep entrance channel. Not much happening on the island which might be a welcomed change from Put-In-Bay. If you want to head to Put-In-Bay, a quick ferry ride is a short walk away.

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Marina Review for Portside Marina - OH

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 20, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Outstanding operation. Isn't it great when the dock hands know what they are doing? The entire staff were friendly, knowledgeable and eager to please.

Excellent floating docks and squeaky clean private restroom/shower combinations.

Great location, steps from downtown, but grab bikes or rent a golf cart to explore the island.

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Marina Review for Cedar Point Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 20, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

If you're planning on riding roller coasters, this is the marina for you. Otherwise, there are probably better choices in the Sandusky area.

Be prepared to dock without assistance, however, hands from the fuel dock will help if requested and they are available. Floating docks in very good condition.

Two bath houses on property. The one nearest the main office and transient docks are heavily used. For a better experience, walk to the other end of the marina.

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Marina Review for Lamb's Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We came through in late April 2021 and had planned to stop at a dock in Elizabeth City, but the mayor declared a state of emergency due to protests following a recent police shooting had us change our plans at the last minute.

Fortunately, we found Lamb's Marina at the last minute and they were able to provide room along their wall.

As others have said, its not the fanciest marina you've even been to, but you'd be hard pressed to find a friendlier group of liveaboards.

The entrance looks a little tight, but follow the marks and stay mid channel, no problems in or out. Once in the basin, very protected and quiet.

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Free Dock Review for Edenton Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

A 'must stop' on the Albemarle and well worth the side trip off the ICW.

Do the docks need some maintenance? Absolutely. Are some of the finger piers short? Yes, but not all. Is the courtesy car a bit rough around the edges? Yup, but hey, they offer one and it appears to have been a cop car in a previous life. Come on, how cool is that?

A couple of inconveniences pale in light of everything else about this town. Be sure to seek out Mark and take his electric boat tour of the area. Most enjoyable.

EVERYONE is so friendly in town Several pubs/restaurants to choose from as well as an outstanding coffee shop. The town is so very very rich in history. Spend a few hours on a self guided walking tour and you'll be amazed.

We are looking forward to stopping by again next year.

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Marina Review for McGarvey's Landing

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Capt Ed was a pleasure. McGarvey's Landing is a face dock next door to a restaurant, but other than the occasional 'looky-loos', it was not a problem. Restrooms nearby with secure entrances.

Vermilion is a quaint little town with several restaurants and an old fashioned ice cream/soda shop. Grocery, hardware and marine supply stores about a 1 mile walk/bike.

Dock is fine shape, but be aware as of the the day of this review, the Vermilion River is running very high. Its just a couple of inches below the top of the seawall, so plan to embark/disembark via swim platform or be ready for a BIG step.

Others have mentioned a 3 knot current down the river, but we did not experience that. MAYBE 1/4-1/2 knot at most was running when we were there.

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Marina Review for Alligator River Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Good stop heading north if the Albemarle is not comfortable to cross.

Friendly staff and good docks. Be aware that when the gas station closes down, there is NO security in the area and your boat is adjacent to a parking lot next to a rural road.

Not a big deal, but we had a 'welcome' mat taken from the dock next to our boat overnight. Be sure to lock up and if you have outside lights, I'd leave them on.

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Marina Review for Belhaven Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Gregg is the best! Seemed like he was always there to lend a hand (and sneak a treat to the doggo).

As others have said, its all bulkhead tie but the marina provides ample ball fenders. If its blowing hard from the southeast through southwest, you're going to be rocked unless you can get moved 'back' along the wall a bit.

Clean and uniquely decorated restrooms, gas grills, small putting green and loads of 'common areas' to socialize all help to make this a great stop.

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Anchorage Review for Bay River - Vandemere

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Anchored well off of town in 10 ft of water. Anchor set immediately. No current noted and well protected from all except southeast quadrant.

Best shore access is about a 1/4-1/2 mile dinghy ride to boat ramps shown on chart just north of town. Two nice ramps in a large, mostly empty park with lots of room for dogs. Surprisingly clean rest room facilities in small white building southeast of the boat ramp.

Nothing nearby, so very quiet. Be wary of 'fuzzy bills' (midges) at night. Boat was swarmed by them.

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Marina Review for Oasis Marinas at North Coast Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 1

Great location for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and downtown Cleveland. Well protected harbor with good docks and staff. Unfortunately, that's where the good news ends.

$2.25/ft gets you nasty, dimly lit rest rooms which never appeared to be serviced during our 3 day/2 night stay. Two shower stalls but only one has curtains. Even though a strong wifi signal with the name NCHM is visible, there is no wifi service available.

Never again. Pick another marina in the area and grab a taxi/Uber/Lyft to the R&R Hall of Fame.

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Marina Review for Oriental Marina & Inn

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Stayed just one night in mid April 2021, would have stayed longer if we didn't need to keep moving north. Staff is great, facilities are good. No problem backing in with our draft.

Large grassy area under trees behind slips and near tikibar to hang out. Everyone very 'chill' and friendly.

Restaurant on-site is pet friendly, has great food and drinks. Hamburgers are awesome, highly recommended if you're in the mood.

Coffee house and ice cream across the street, West Marine and hardware stores about a mile walk or bike. Limited sidewalks, but road is very lightly traveled.

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Marina Review for Homer Smith Docks and Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 15, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Stayed here for four days in mid April 2021. Facilities are 'ok', nothing extraordinary but very functional. Matt and crew are third generation watermen, not corporate employees and demonstrated great southern hospitality to us while we were there.

Location to downtown is the best and the availability of two courtesy cars and free laundry are nice perks. Granted the cars are a bit rough around the edges but they get the job done.

Will certainly be back during future trips up/down the ICW.

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Marina Review for Church St. Town Dock

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 14, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 3

Nice slips and t-head. Even though reservations are required for transients, the local 'day' boats seem to have the run of the place and reservations don't really mean anything unless you can get someone from the city to come down and sort it out.

Restrooms are about 1/4 mile up the hill in the visitor's center. Pumpout was not working when we were there in mid April 2021.

'Typical' little NC town with several eating/drinking options. Fairly strong current may run parallel to the face dock, so be prepared.

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Marina Review for Geneva State Park Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 14, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

As others have said, transients are generally placed on a face dock a long way from the office, but there are restrooms at the end of the dock. Nothing fancy, but workable. Its a state park. Staff and docks are first class.

Many walking/biking trails within the park and just over a mile walk into the tourist district. If you have a dog, a stop a "Ruff House on the Lake" for VERY pet friendly dining is a must.

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Marina Review for Harbour Village Marina Inc.

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 13, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

During our trip north in early April 2021, couldn't get a slip in Wrightsville Beach, so opted to continue north a bit. So glad we did.

First rate dockmaster and facilities. Completely protected from weather. The only possible downside is that there is nothing nearby except for a pizza delivery service.

We plan to make this a regular stop on the ICW.

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Anchorage Review for Wrightsville Beach

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 13, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Light current reverses with tidal changes but good holding. Local boaters generally very inconsiderate of anchored boats. There is an extensive no-wake zone near the marinas to the west, but its a free for all in the anchorage during daylight hours.

Small boat floating docks in the northeast corner of the anchorage near the bridge that can be used for dingy access.

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Marina Review for Ashtabula Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Nice laid back yacht club. No restaurant/bar but full kitchen available for use. Members were very welcoming and made us feel at home. Short walk into town for restaurants, less than a mile to grocery/hardware.

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Free Dock Review for Ashtabula Transient Boat Dock

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Two pumpouts available, both at far north end of dock. Dock, cleats and pumpouts all in great shape.

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Bridge comment on 5th Street Bridge

Comment by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 11, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'

Passed through this bridge on 7/11/21. Clearance while in down position is nowhere near the published 11 ft at current water levels. Would estimate it to be more like 5 ft, perhaps less.

Bridge operator did not respond when called on channel 13. Sign on bridge indicates that vessels requesting opening should should sound one long and one short horn signal.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  As of July 9, 2021 Lake Erie was 50" above Datum.

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Marina Review for Presque Isle State Park Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 11, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Stopped for fuel. Easy in/out with helpful dockhand. Pumpout operation is questionable. Best not to depend on having it working.

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Marina Review for Wolverine Park Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 11, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Spent 5 nights here in early July. Great location, many restaurants within easy walking distance. All city buses are free through late August, so that's an option for getting to Wegman's, Lowes, Walmart, etc.

Theresa is the dock master and great to deal with. Be prepared however for no assistance with docking because the dockhands double as towboat operators and may be out on a call. Also, note that their pumpout is not working and is not likely to be repaired.

Other than those two negatives, it was a great place. Well sheltered and secure.

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Marina Review for Carolina Beach Marina and Mooring Field

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Mooring field in great shape. Pendants are kept in a 'bowl' atop the mooring balls so they are cleaner than most. Entire bay is designated 'no-wake', even with a fair amount of traffic there was never an issue.

Two dingy docks to choose from. The closest is east of the southern end of the mooring field, the other is at the far southern end of the bay.

Easy beach/restroom access from the closer dinghy dock but not much else. To get to restaurants/Publix, head to south end of bay. If walking to Publix, be sure to take the side roads along the bay because the main road is very busy with no sidewalks.

Carolina Beach is quite 'touristy', not at all like Holden Beach to the south.

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Marina Review for Holden Beach Transient Dock

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Spent one night in early April 2021. Great stop for an overnight while moving along the ICW. Floating dock with 30/50 amp in great shape. Directly adjacent to small park, city hall and police department. Online payment system works great.
Several beach restaurants within easy walking distance. Great dog friendly little sea-side town without that touristy feeling.

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Marina Review for Harborwalk Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Stayed one night early April 2021. One of our favorite stops along the ICW. Staff and facilities are top notch. Great location for access to 'downtown' Georgetown. Be sure to visit the SoCo Grille very near the marina for some of the best home cooked southern food you can find.
NAPA is about a 1 mile walk. Grocery and drug store about 1.25 mile walk.

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Anchorage Review for Whiteside Creek

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Spent one night in early April 2021. Tried to anchor up river past the bend but found very poor holding. Came back out and anchored mid channel about 1/2 way between entrance and bend with no issues.
Took dingy about 5 minutes (on plane) east to state park for exploring. Dinghy dock in very poor condition, but usable. Dingy dock is located on the north side of the Capers Inlet channel at Lat: N 32° 51.530' Lon: W 079° 42.474’. See satellite photo for dinghy dock location.

About1/4 mile walk to large deserted beach along trail. Well worth the trip.

No where to land a dog at anchorage, but the dock and park works fine for that.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Charleston City

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We stayed here for 3 days in early April 2021 and were placed the the outside of the 'Megayacht' face dock. Quite exposed to the southeast through southwest as well as passing boats with no regard for their wakes.
Other than being a bit uncomfortable at times, the docks, personnel and facilities were all first rate.
About a 1 mile walk to downtown Charleston and 1.5 miles to a grocery store, but the marina offered a free shuttle to both.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Beaufort

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

In late March 2021 was placed on outer face dock with no issues. Dock hands very helpful and accommodating. Beautiful location close to town and all the history imaginable. Many places for food/drink and even a bakery on one of the side streets off the 'main drag'. Worth searching out. Very dog friendly town.

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Anchorage Review for Ramshorn Creek - New River

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Spent one night here in Late March 2021. Anchored where indicated on Waterway Guide, easy in/out but be mindful of shoal to the northeast between anchorage and ICW. Surrounded by lowlands in all directions so not much protection from wind (which keeps bugs down), and good protection from fetch except to the east. Moderate current with excellent holding. Easy dinghy ride to Daufuski Landing dinghy dock for dog walk and stroll along very lightly traveled roads on island.

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Anchorage Review for North Newport River - Walburg Creek

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Anchored here end of March 2021. We anchored mid channel about a 1/2 mile south of the north end of the mouth of the river in 15-18 feet of depth MLW. Open to to North and South wind but otherwise well protected. Strong current runs through the anchorage, but anchor set immediately, held well and came up clean. Good beach to land dog on the eastern shore at low tide but nearer high tide beach disappears. Bugs are fierce onshore near sunset/sunrise, but bug free in anchorage.

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Marina Review for Oasis Marinas at Fernandina Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Picked up a mooring for one night the end of March 2021. Nice mooring field with good equipment but a bit of a long and possible wet ride to the marina on the other side of the channel. Use the south entrance to the marina to get to the dinghy dock.

Didn't use the marina facilities much but the town looked kinda fun. Wish we could have spent more time exploring.

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Marina Review for Brunswick Landing Marina, Inc.

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Spent two nights here at the end of March 2021, could have easily stayed longer. Facilities, dock masters and 'locals' are great. Brewery and restaurants are a short walk into town. Idigo Coastal Shanty is NOT to be missed. Doesn't look like much but food is outstanding and is the only restaurant we have come across that offers a complimentary bowl of chicken and rice to your doggie.

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Marina Review for Cocoa Village Marina

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 8, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Spent most of the month of March 2021 in the west basin. Great facilities, wonderful staff, and of course easy access to all that Cocoa Village has to offer.
If there is an expected blow from the north, try to get into the west basin because the east basin in a bit more exposed.

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Marina Review for Smith Boys Marine Sales

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

If you can't find space on the wall in Tonawanda, this is the place! The staff are incredibly helpful, friendly and knowledgeable of the area. Transients tie up on a face dock. Clean bathhouse with free laundry. Great on-site dining option - currently open Fri - Sun. Uber to Niagara Falls

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Marina Review for Sun Life Marinas at Buffalo Harbor

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Jul 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Great marina but transient slips are a bit narrow, so be sure to confirm you fit in one or two slips before booking. On-site dock master accommodating.
Very nice clean bathhouse with great showers and nice walking trail for you and fur babies. Good on-site restaurant.

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Anchorage Review for Fort Matanzas G81A

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Mar 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter cut just south of 81A and follow center of channel. Carried 12 feet all the way to the fort on the south side of the channel.

The no-wake zone starts just west of the fort and continues east to the park service dock on the north shore.

Easy dingy ride to beach area for kids, dogs (and adults!)

SWIFT current, but anchor held well and when it finally broke loose upon retrieval, came up with very firm sandy/clay.

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Anchorage Review for Rockhouse Creek

Reviewed by: David Merchberger, Slo Pace, on Mar 24, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Enter mid channel from ICW, carried 10ft well into the anchorage. 7 boats in anchorage with room for more. Easy dingy ride northeast to beach for dog access.

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Marina Review for Cape Marina, Port Canaveral

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Feb 2, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Have used this marina several times over the years for its haul out services and DIY boat yard. The crew has always been professional and timely. The ship store, while not large, is stocked with the basic supplies needed. Unlike other DIY yards in the area, they do not require you to buy supplies from them.

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Marina Review for Port Canaveral Yacht Club-PRIVATE

Reviewed by: David Merchberger , Slo Pace, on Feb 2, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

Spent one overnight in prep for a haulout early the next morning at Cape Marina. Easy access and friendly staff/community, clean facilities. Fixed docks with short finger piers. Power pedestals wired for 30 amp, so if 50 amp required, be sure to bring a splitter.

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