Reviews: St. Augustine Municipal Marina

Reviewed by: Len Polistina , Here and Now, on Jul 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Clean affordable marina. Great location to walk around town and trolly stop out front of marina. City is beautiful a must stop. O'Sheens fried shrimp across bridge was delicious

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Reviewed by: Brad Valdyke on May 27, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Current as expected, staff did a good job directing us to prep for docking BEFORE coming into the basin. Stayed two nights, staff always attentive, open docks but security is onsite at night. We always enjoy our stay at St Augusine Municipal.

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Reviewed by: Anamarija urh , TiAmo, on May 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 2

The town of St Augustine is worth a stop but marina and moorings could be better run.
We were on the mooring on south field and the current against the wind makes the moorings downright dangerous. We were on mooring No16 and got damage on our boat due to mooring constantly getting stacked under the hulls no matter how we adjusted it. The mooring safety rub rail came off exposing sharp screws. We informed marina staff and they could not care less.
We also witness a monohull beeing grounded while in slip, hanging to one side, no actions were Thales by marina staff. We will be back to St Augustine but won't ever stay on mooring again.
The reason for 2 star is that St Augustine is worth a visit, otherwise it would be 1 star

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Reviewed by: John Newman on May 16, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 4

$2.30/foot plus $17/day for electric (not pleased about that)

It was recommended to go during slack tide. We did that, but the wind was such that we had to try docking twice. The dockhands were great and definitely knew how to handle boats coming in with the tide and wind.
Docks are not keyed and there's a lot of foot traffic during the weekends. It was not a problem.
The bathrooms were a distance away from the transient dock. There were 3 toilets and 3 showers - didn't seem enough for such a large marina. But it was keyed and nice as compared to the public bathrooms around the corner.
The laundry room / lounge was also keyed. This is the place the marina put all the Amazon deliveries, since there really isn't a marina office. I would be concerned that my items were left unattended in the laundry room.

Right in the middle of everything, We waked to the Castillo de San Marco as well as the shops and restaurants downtown.

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

Rating: 5

The staff were great and helped us tie up and get registered in windy conditions. Easy walk to restaurants, shopping and other attractions. Facilities are well kept and clean.

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Reviewed by: Richard Lewis , Sea-Quel, on Apr 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 56'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

Excellent marina and staff was extremely helpful in some very windy conditions. Great location to Old St Augustine. It is a bit unnerving watching folks walk up and down the dock but we had no problems. Come in at slack tide. The tidal flow can be brutal.

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Reviewed by: Kevin Williams , m/v Blue Tortuga, on Apr 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Marina is located perfectly for all the main St. Augustine attractions. Shopping district is easily in walking distance. Lighthouse is an easy bike ride away. Dpon't miss the historic mission North of the marina, and early morning visit there is a treat. Be prepared for tourists to wander the docks. Our particular slip was open to fetch and we had considerable rocking at various times of day and night. Staff is professional and helpful, although the directions into our particular slip could have been better.

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Feb 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

This was my third stay here at St. Augustine Muni. The construction is pretty much done with the far north dock completed. It creates a nice block for wind-driven waves from the north, which is exactly why I was stuck there for three nights. (I'd originally hoped for just one.) The reproduction galleon Nao Trinidad was parked in the marina right near my slip for the entire length of my stay; it was an interesting self-guided tour. This marina has good service, well-maintained docks, a very good laundry facility, and satisfactory bathrooms/showers limited to boater use. Free in-slip pumpout. It's right downtown in St. Augustine so its easy access to everything. Pet friendly. Supermarkets are a short Uber/Lyft/bike ride away. Now that the construction is done, it's a real pleasure to stay there. Recommended.

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Dec 2, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

This was my second stay at St. Augustine Municipal and I would stay there again. Be advised that there is construction going on at the marina and it can be noisy. (They do not start at 4 AM as someone else reported, but they do start early.) Many of the slips are not currently available. The mooring field was full but they had room for my shallow draft Ranger tug close to shore (as they did last time, too). Clean bathrooms and showers, good laundry facilities, and the whole downtown area of St. Augustine is just steps away. Location, location, location! And the price isn't crazy high, either. Pet friendly. We were there during the week for two nights near the start of their Christmas Light festival. Very nice. I've been here on weekends and it's very loud with noise from bars and partiers on the tram and horse carriage tours.

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Reviewed by: Laurie Faraone , Koswekan, on Nov 22, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 43'
Draft: 0.0'

Rating: 4

We love both the marina and the mooring field EXCEPT that the mooring field is full of crab traps. We had one directly behind our boat, and had I not grabbed the ball on the first try, with the winds and the currents, we easily could have wound up with the line around our prop. Unfortunately, Florida law only prohibits crab traps from being placed in navigation channels, no prohibition for mooring fields.

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Reviewed by: Keith Palmer , Odysea II, on Nov 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 31'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

This is the second time we have stayed here primarily for the proximity to downtown restaurants and other activity.

The construction is a nuisance but we were here on the weekend so it was not a big deal.

The dock hands were good. Helpful during docking.

Laundry was good with fairly new machines and not stupid price.

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Reviewed by: Jessica Knapp , What Could Go Wrong, on Nov 11, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 1

DO NOT go here for customer service. The staff is RUDE. Also, neglected to mention anywhere, there is construction going on along the waterfront beginning at 4am. The construction stops on the weekend, which is replaced with the bar noise.

The convenience of the location is great. Except you have to walk around the construction.

The bathrooms are barely clean. Laundry is in good working order.

Would never stay here again after dealing with the staff.

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Reviewed by: Jeffrey Womack , SV Mischievous Mermaid, on Jul 19, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Stayed on a ball for a few nights. Nice marina. Very close to tourist areas. Would definitely stay there again.

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Reviewed by: Lisa Vidor on Jun 18, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

We stayed on a Mooring Ball and it was great. They shuttled us ashore. Loved St Augustine. Easy to walk. Would definitely stay again.

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Reviewed by: Charles Thomas on May 12, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

I stayed at the marina the beginning of 2023 for three months. I only planned one, but the marina was fantastic and I loved St Augustine. Unfortunately, they wouldn't extend me any more time.

I was on South dock which has tour boats so there was a lot of public foot traffic during the day. You will have a lot of noise from the bridge is the only other downside.

Within walking distance has to be 20+ restaurants.

A1A is a fun pub/restaurant that has music every night. The soft pretzel come with a side of beer cheese soup which is like crack. Forgotten Tonic is a fantastic restaurant.

I found O.C. Whites, right at the foot of South dock to be hitter miss food wise, but they have a nice outdoor dining area with music.

There is a small Greek/Polish restaurant behind A1A's, great food.

Alta Marea is a fantastic though expensive restaurant.

Casa Reina was ok, I think a lot of their dishes are pre-made and nuked. Several times my order was delivered within a few minutes and cold in the middle.

The drunken is a fantastic wine bar with a great menu and nice outdoor court yard for dining.

Tini-martini is a short walk to the best martinis and also have good food.

Ice Plant is fantastic, located in an old Ice plant. It's a bike ride or Uber though.

Rosevelt Room has great weekend brunch, attached is Prohibition kitchen. It's a nice gastro pub with live music. Behind these two is Pizza Alley, great pizza/Italian with a dessert/wine and coffee bar in front.

The Floridian is another favorite with a fantastic menu.

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Reviewed by: David Mann , Now or Never, on May 8, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.7'

Rating: 5

The marina has floating concrete docks with 30 and 50 amp power, potable water, dockside pump out connections and good wifi. The facilities are well kept including clean showers and restrooms. Located in an area surrounded by restaurants, taverns, and shops. If you're inexperienced with handling current it would be good advice to wait for slack periods although the staff will work to help you in. Busy marina with a secure feel.

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Reviewed by: John Highsmith , CAT O' MINE, on May 6, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 26'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

Helpful dockhands, clean bath house, close to the action downtown. We didn't find the current to be an issue with twin 150hp outboards. Right in the tourist area with the pros and cons that go with that. Great stop with lots of history.

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Reviewed by: Graeme Walker , Confirmed Aquaholic, on Apr 19, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 54'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Very helpful staff. Had an exciting time docking as we were not at 'slack' tide, would strongly recommend only arriving/departing on as close to slack as you can accomplish. Very exposed to most winds, some boats were bouncing uncomfortably with 20mph winds for two days, we were on lee of concrete dock which helped a lot. We had 50amp power but it did trip several times, looks like they have the new EFCIs. Very close to all shops and downtown entertainment.

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Reviewed by: Jim Young on Apr 17, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 45'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Just following up on the 50 amp issue! We use 2- 30 amps or split a 50. We had to split 50 amp power and it worked fine. Not sure what to make of it, but we almost didn't stop here because of the breaker tripping concern raised previously and it was a non issue for us! Loved the location of this marina!

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Reviewed by: Ken Dion on Apr 3, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

We arrived on 4/3/23. Docks are nice, staff is helpful but short staffed. Do not come here if you need 50 Amp service. Multiple big boats running on generators and will be all night because all our 50 amp cords are tripping the pedestal outlets. The pedestals have the new ground fault breakers. We have stayed here 2 other times in the past without issues with power. They did not offer to discount our stay. We had planned to stay here for 2 nights - not sure now.

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Reviewed by: Daniel Warthan on Mar 28, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

What a great location! Nice people to deal with; in the middle of everything easy walk to shop, eat, and get your fill of history and just walking. If you can't secure a slip here, they have mooring balls and people say they are happy with that- good size dinghy dock to tie your boat off. Definitely need a few days to enjoy everything the town has to offer!

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Reviewed by: Asea Renning on Mar 13, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Nice marina with floating docks, close to Old St. Augustine with many restaurants and shops nearby. This is a dog friendly town.

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Mar 4, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 5

If you want to experience St. Augustine, this is the place to do it from. The marina is right downtown, walking distance from dozens of shops and restaurants, as well as the fort. A bit longer walk to the Lighthouse, but definitely bikeable.

The marina is well managed, in excellent condition, and staffed 24 hours a day by a professional crew in uniform polo shirts so they're easy to identify. They'll help with anything you need. The restrooms are clean and in good shape. The laundry room features 4 washers and 4 dryers, all of which seemed well maintained. The laundry room was adjacent to a large, comfortable, air conditioned lounge.

There is a very strong tidal current at the dock; the water seems to be always moving. Wake and waves were not an issue during my three-night stay. I was relatively close in (due to my shallow draft, I suspect) and the adjacent empty slips often hosted fishing boats going for the sheepshead that live under the docks.

On the weekend, the marina was busy with day trippers and the town got somewhat loud with live music from a nearby rooftop restaurant. This got too loud on Monday night for a wedding party that never seemed to end. Tourists do tend to stroll the docks during the day, but a chain across the ramp overnight discourages this. And again, the marina is staffed around the clock.

Lots of very friendly people here. I felt like part of a community during my short stay. Recommended, especially if you like to keep busy off the boat. So much to do and see.

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

Rating: 4

We stayed on a mooring twice (Dec 2022 & Feb 2023), both times north of the Lions bridge during light wind nights. Beautiful view of the city and the fort, especially around Christmas with all the lights on. Easy access to the city. Responsive marina staff. Many boats anchored around, so if the mooring field is full that is an option.

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Reviewed by: Janet Gannon on Feb 7, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 37'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 5

The mooring field here is top notch. You need to attach your own dock lines to the thimble. Winn Dixie and West Marine is walkable! Great way to see a cool city.

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Reviewed by: Paul Hoffman , Changes in L'Attitudes, on Feb 5, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 5

Arrived 10 JAN Departed 12 JAN 2023. Reserved slip about a month out.

First visit here in a slip. Second stay here ... first time was on a ball on New Years Eve (31 DEC 2020). No issues with that stay.

Arrived from the south about an hour earlier than desired (slack is about 35-40 minutes after high/low tide). Ebb current was running pretty good out in the channel, but was easily managed with engines in the marina's north basin.

Excellent comms from the dock office (south end of fuel dock) who had us stand off while they got a big cat u/w from the fuel dock. After the cat had cleared we were called to head right in.

No issues on docking. One line handler quickly took our forward running spring and we backed easily into slip 27 (north basin facing north).

Check in at the office was quick and easy. Received gate/bath house keys.

Stay was relaxing. Plenty to do within walking distance. Marina has good security and the area outside the gates seems very safe. There is a stop for the Old Town Trolly a few steps from the marina.

Departure was easy. Turned in key cards, handled lines ourselves. Checked with dock office on VHF to ensure no active traffic at the fuel dock prior to casting off lines. Slight ebb as we got underway posed no challenge to negotiating the basin.

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Reviewed by: Bret Butler , Lucy 2, on Jan 29, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

We have stayed at two other marinas in St Augustine and this is by far the best. Good access to city, nice docks, nice onshore facilities. We will stay here again.

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Reviewed by: Brent Massey , True Story, on Jan 22, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 40'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

Spending a few nights at the foot of the Bridge of Lions, and within sight of the old Castillo, seems like a right of passage for sailors. And unfortunately, it seems that the marina staff knows that. Our dockhand was less than helpful when we were trying to dock in the strong current. He seemed more interested in barking useless orders than he was in catching our lines and helping us into our slip. I think that the marina should be more forthcoming with the fact that the current runs TOWARD shore as well as toward or away from the Bridge. That pearl of wisdom would have been helpful while planning my docking approach, not while trying to recover from a failed attempt.

I had one other interaction with a staff member after our key cards to the heads stopped functioning halfway through our stay. The staff member in the office was very rude to me when I asked for help and seemed to accuse me of some malfeasance. I don't know why they stopped working, and I assumed it was a simple clerical error. But I was treated as if I was trying to get something for free, or trying to scam my way into the bathroom!

The docks are nice, the location and convenience to town are unmatched and I think that is the only saving grace for this marina. Otherwise I have have stayed in much nicer facilities, with much nicer staff, for far less.

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Reviewed by: Eric Ramsey , SunBums, on Dec 13, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

This marina has very easy access to downtown historic St. Augustine. This can sometimes mean its a little loud around the docks. The bathrooms/showers for the marina were very clean and require a key card to get in. There are public restroom right there in the same area. The docks do not have gated access so everyone can walk the docks. The marina is staffed 24hrs a day but they did not appear to be walking the docks or providing any security for the boats. There is a pretty strong current flowing through making it a little bumpy since the breakwater dock was damaged during the hurricane. The marine is working to get this fixed.

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Reviewed by: Lawrence Wolfenden on Nov 26, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 38'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

The facilities are well-maintained, and the prices reasonable. There is not much in the way of provisioning or a ship's store anywhere nearby, but there is a pretty large West Marine within two miles. Only a mile away (west) up King Street is Sailor's Exchange, a great place to buy/sell/trade hardware.

There's something special about sailing into the site of the first colony in what is now the U.S.. Yet, despite the massive daily visitor traffic, there is still a small, home-town feel to St. Augustine. From the marina, you have a very short walk to the historic section of the city and the Castillo.

Pump-out vessel/service and courtesy launch.

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Reviewed by: Brad Valdyke on Jul 17, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

First night had a mooring ball - they gave us a corner spot to make approach easy. Experienced a malfunction after departure x 2 days - each time they welcomed us back early and into an easily managed slip. Dock hands were helpful and friendly. We will return!
For parts - The Marine Supply & Oil Co. (www.marsupco.com) is close & well stocked.

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Reviewed by: James Brace on Jun 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

We used the mooring field north of the bridge. Amazing view of city, fort, Bridge of Lions. Spent two nights there. Will come back!

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Reviewed by: Bill Mcmahon on May 3, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Extremely well run marina in a great location, right in the heart of Old St. Augustine. Helpful and knowledgeable staff. Solid concrete floating docks. New and clean shower and restroom facilities. Excellent laundry (4 washers) lots of space with adjacent lounge area. Recycle bins on the dock.

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Reviewed by: James Holland , Harmony, on Apr 19, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 3.7'

Rating: 5

Best location. Right in the historic district. Great bathrooms. Strong tidal currents can test your docking skills, but not too tough since typically current and wind are on the bow or stern.

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Reviewed by: Captain Bulldog on Feb 22, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Great stop with restaurants close by. Watch your approach. From Bridge of Lions come right in. Don't drift south or you may find yourself on rocks. Little bit of current by the docks when the tides are running.

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Reviewed by: Benjamin Resch on Jan 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 47'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 5

Amazing place. Super organized, professional, and as close as you can get to the center of St. Augustine. Docks are in great shape, and 24/7 on site presence. Even had free coffee in the marina office when I was there.

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Reviewed by: James tannahill on Jan 23, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Clean facilities, pleasant helpful staff, close to tourists attraction. No grocery stores close. We took a short 15 minute dinghy ride South towards the fixed bridge, turn right and go up the San Sebastian and you can enjoy a nice dinner/lunch at otters. They have boat parking. From there you are within walking distance of West Marine, Target, Winn Dixie etc.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Jan 16, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Docking and leaving here can be an adventure due to the swift currents. You will usually be given a dock into the current so that part is not too bad. However, when leaving, you may have current with you or against you so take great care. The current is not parallel to the docks, you will be pushed at an angle (maybe 30 degrees), be forewarned. The dockhands are excellent, they've had a lot of practice. The WiFi is first-rate (OnSpotWiFi). Fuel is available and pump-out can be had at your slip, a big plus. The big attraction is St Augustine. It's a big town for the ICW and there are many shops and restaurants to explore. The Castillo de San Marcos fort is nearby which is free if you have a Golden Passport from seniors. Don't miss the local artists on display at the St Augustine Art Association building near the marina.

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Reviewed by: Galli Family on Sep 1, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 50'
Draft: 5.6'

Rating: 5

This is a great location. Very scenic. Walk across street to downtown St Augustine shops and restaurants. Free dinghy dock for mooring field. Staff is friendly and attentive. Floating docks are in great shape. Only one drawback is there is no marina parking. We did find free street parking about 3/4 mi away on Charlotte St. I would highly recommend.

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Reviewed by: Ross Wiltse on Apr 16, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

Good floating docks, staff helped us into the slip as there is strong current when tides are moving. Plan accordingly. Easy access to all the historical locations within walking downtown. Bridge noise was tolerable. There is construction just South of the marina that starts fairly early. Overall, we would 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

Stayed on a mooring for a week. I had a great experience, but only dealt with marina staff once. I would stay again. Dinghy Dock gets crowded, so plan on leaving your outboard down and using a long line to secure the dinghy.

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Reviewed by: Roger Battistoni on Jan 18, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 100'
Draft: 8.0'

Rating: 1

After owning and running boats for the last 10 years, including currently one of the few owner/operators of a 100 foot vessel, I can easily come to the conclusion that St Augustine Municiple Marina is the worst marina that I have ever visited ……. ever….

The word worst means so many things in this case. Having stayed at this marina for almost 6 weeks, the word worst means some of the worst dock hands I have ever experienced, in customer service, quality of work and attitude. Not a day would go by would I see or be told by another boater that they are leaving because of the poor treatment they received by the staff….

Worst also means the facility, during our stay, we never had full power (we required dual 100’s), however the two 50’s we were given were tripping at 30 amps. We were told a 100 amp would be installed for us… it never happened.

Finding a hose is always a challenge, fuel hoses are always uncoiled making a tripping hazard… fuel spills are a common hazard and are never correctly cleaned up, electric on their “mega dock” does not work properly… packages are left at a unsecured location that anyone can access.. the list goes on and on.

Worst also means their leadership, the Dock Master could care less about you, your vessel or your stay. He is a known issue and it was told to us that he has a “stack” of complaints against him. We had been communicating to him months before our arrival, and were given options for 3 slips… one of them the fuel dock. We made it very clear to him that we would not want the fuel dock. Only to find out 2 hours prior to arrival after we had been underway for 72 hours, the fuel dock, was indeed where he planned on putting us. On arrival after trying to seek explanations, we were told it was due to “other reservations”. Only to find out we were flat out lied to, as it was an existing power issue on the mega dock that dates back months … in other words the other two docks were not even a possibility.

Finally .. billing. At marinas, after you stay a month, if you leave the following month in the middle of the month, marinas always will prorate your monthly dockage rate to a daily rate and then charge you only for the additional number of days. Oh no.. not here, they will try to gouge you either for the normal daily rate or ask you to pay another full month. Only after pushback did they indicate they had done the pro-rated monthly rate in the past... just trying to get you to pay more……. Wow .. poor business....

Needless to say there are better marinas around.. Eventually the word will get out (talking to other boats.. it seems to be already happening). Do yourself a favor.. park your asset somewhere else and take a $3 dollar Uber to the city center…

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

Rating: 4

Stayed at the docks. Good and bad here. Great dock help so docking during strong current is not as bad as I had feared. Good that it is right in the center of town so fantastic access to all the tourist sites but also have lots of people walking the docks. Next to Bridge of Lions so bridge noise from passing traffic. Free in-slip pump out on request.

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Reviewed by: Paul Hoffman , Changes in L'Attitudes, on Jan 4, 2021
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.8'

Rating: 4

We were late settling on a place to stop over for New Year, and didn't request a reservation until the morning of 30 DEC. Mooring field and marina were booked and we went on the waiting list. We received a call just a few hours later telling us a ball had opened and we were in!! On arrival we were given our ball assignment (north field), but found the ball occupied. Hailed the office on VHF and they sent their shuttle/small boat out to chase the boat off the ball (seems he's a local that brings his friends/charters out and ties up to empty balls to eat). Easy tie up to the ball. Ball and painter in good shape. City looked great lit up for the holidays. Pretty good current runs through the area. Only draw back we had was concerns about private boats and professional charters that come through the mooring field fairly regularly. Not sure if this is a 'only during the holiday light period' or a more year round occurance.

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Reviewed by: Bruce Krizmanic , S/V Inspiration, on Jun 22, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.7'

Rating: 4

Spent 4 days in the south mooring field, high winds so a bit choppy and open to wakes.
The marina staff was very friendly and helpful, the location to town is great.

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Reviewed by: Chris Tusa on May 8, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 38'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 2

Dock personnel are mostly friendly. Stayed on a mooring and paid for a week. They stated i would receive a refund for early departure. All I received was a run around and a lot of lame excuses. Still haven't seen any refund and pretty sure I wont.

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Reviewed by: Matt Claiborne, Cruising Editor on Apr 26, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 38'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

St. Augustine is an amazing port for cruisers. Walking distance to nearly everything you need, and easy access to Uber and rental cars.

If planning to dock at the marina, know that slack current occurs 20-35 minutes AFTER high and low tides. It is well worth timing your approach here for slack water, as noted in other reviews. It is not an uncommon sight to see boats pinned by the current.

If planning to stay on a mooring, know that they are all exposed to wakes. Busy weekends can make the river very choppy. The south field (Menendez Moorings) is slightly more protected than the north side of the bridge (San Marco Moorings). The north side is downright uncomfortable in a north wind/frontal passage.

As of 2020, the marina launch operates on the even hours from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. The pump-out boat operates every morning at about 9 a.m.–tell the office the day before you need it to get on the list.

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Reviewed by: Paul Smyers , SV Nova, on Apr 17, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Good staff.

Well built docks.

Excellent access to the city which has loads of restaurants, bars, shopping, history, and entertainment.

Grocery delivery services know how to deal with the limited parking and marina situation.

Great city services like hardware stores and barber shops.

There is lots of current which can make docking tricky.

There are also an absurd amount of fish in the marina. Big fish chase massive schools of small fish that will even just ram into your boat at full speed from time to time. It's crazy.

Highly recommended stop on the ICW. You'd be missing out on one of the east coast boating treasures if you didn't take advantage of this marina to access St Augustine.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Nov 15, 2019
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

St Augustine is one of our favorite stops. You can either pick up a mooring, anchor, or take a slip. We prefer a slip but beware of the swift currents and plan your approach carefully.

The town is great to just explore. Don’t miss the St Augustine Art Association at 22 Marine St, only a couple of blocks from the marina. We always buy fresh bread at the Spanish bakery at 42.5 St George St. The fort is always fun to visit and it’s free if you have a Golden Passport (for seniors). There are many fine restaurants to choose from.

The marina offers free pump outs right at your dock, very convenient and they have washers and dryers for use by transients,

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Reviewed by: Warren Hayes on Nov 12, 2019
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 46'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 4

Busy when we visited (11/11/2019) so there was little time for anyone to brief us about the marina. The dock hands were quick, prepared and helpful. Depending on the tides coming and going can be challenging, so caution could be very appropriate.

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Reviewed by: Craig on Nov 22, 2018
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 34'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

This is our second stay on a dock here. Current is very strong. Schedule arrival and departure at slack tide. We love the easy access to the historic downtown.

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Reviewed by: Rogue Angel on Nov 1, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 44'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Marina is just now coming back online after 2 years of repairs. Staff was excellent and very accommodating. New floating docks, mostly new power and water was being finished while we were there. Perfect location to visit st Augustine, right in the heart of old town. On our last day we found out there is a Publix grocery store a short dingy ride up the icw. Definitely a great stop. We spent 3 days waiting for weather and throughly enjoyed it.

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Reviewed by: Elena&Meg on Feb 11, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 46'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 4

Stayed first week Feb 2018:

Marina: 1 star. (See proviso, below)
Moorings: 1 star.
Marina shore amenities: 3 stars.
Marina staff: 5 stars.
Ambiance: 5 stars.
Shopping: 1 star.
WiFi: 1 star. (See proviso)

(Proviso) I was agonizing over the one-star rating for the marina. They are likely a 5 star facility, especially for transients/tourists, there to enjoy the town, and not worry about their boats, but at the time we were there, I have to call it like I saw it: severely restricted capacity. The damage/destruction is heartbreaking, and I feel for the loss of tourist revenue from transient boaters that downtown St. Augustine must be experiencing. With that in mind, please consider my one-star rating for the floating assets of the marina, applicable only to the time of our stay: the beginning of February 2018. We were informed that reconstruction would begin in March, 2018.

Feb 2018 - Marina: Barely operational: There are sort-of two serviceable slips for larger boats. The staff have cobbled together extension cords and hoses for power and water from the fuel dock. We were lucky to have a slip for two nights. South wind against a flood current whips up 2 foot waves in what's left of the marina. Nerves of steel (and a current out of the slip) are required to get into the slip. Once stopped, it's great. The staff go to heroic lengths to accommodate.

Mooring Field: Spent 1 night. Exposed to wakes and south-north wind. 1-2 foot chop with wind opposing a strong current. Boats grind on the buoys in these conditions: Current points the bow at the buoy; wind pushes (sails) the boat forward, overtaking the buoy; buoy snugs up against the hull and grinds up and down against it as the boat porpoises in the chop. Lighter vessels and those without deep keels ride right over the buoys and fishtail like crazy. Watched a catamaran in 15 knots of south wind, cracking the whip, and keel-hauling the buoy from under one hull and then the other.

Old Town - Downtown: Beautiful, as far as you can easily walk. Great dining! Breathtaking architecture and sightseeing. But touristy shopping, only. Practicalities (groceries, hardware, clothing) require wheels. Although, near the St. Augustine distillery (a fun free tour - but not-so-great spirits) there's a Rype & Readi Downtown Farm Market for fresh veggies, organics, eggs, pasta, and dairy, for light galley provisioning.

- - - - - - - - -

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Reviewed by: Brad Baker on Jan 26, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 39'
Draft: 3.7'

Rating: 5

We laid over two days for electrical trouble shooting. The marina staff was very friendly and the dockside amenities were great (50 amp service, water, clean restrooms and showers, laundry). We had time to do some local exploring. Lots of restaurants and historical sites. Great place to stop.

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Reviewed by: Vickie Kurtz , Peaceful Existence, on May 24, 2017
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 50'
Draft: 7.2'

Rating: 5

During the last four years, we have stayed at the dock and in both north and south mooring fields. The strong tidal current can make docking challenging. We prefer the smaller, south mooring field but it has limited space for larger vessels and is full much of the time. Their dinghy docks are easy to access and not usually crowded. The amenities of the marina are excellent with the exception of car parking which they have none other than on-the-street metered parking. The staff and water-taxi service are friendly and helpful with any questions. We try to use this marina whenever we are passing through the area.

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Reviewed by: Andrew Skelton on Dec 16, 2016
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 43'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 4

We used mooring field while here. Nice facilities, friendly staff, pumpout available at mooring and at anchor. You can reserve of mooring in advance. Very affordable. If trying to time bridge from north, beware of strong ebb current which is about 3 knots! Give yourself some extra time. The town is fantastic.

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Reviewed by: Thomas Blaser on Jun 1, 2016

St. Augustine Municipal Marina: Nice mooring field (south). A little lumpy during the day on a weekend as it is not a 'no wake / minimum wake' zone. Single pennant was nice and long – they keep them coiled up in a sailor hat affair on top of the ball. They are dry! Not bad for $20.
All very clean facilities – lounge, laundry, showers, etc.... Enter and exit the mooring field ONLY between red 8 and red 10, closer to 8. Short walk to historic district. 

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