Reviews: Alligator River Marina

Reviewed by: Gary & Karen Cervak , My Brown Eyed Girls, on Jul 28, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Not a fancy place but perfectly adequate for the one night we spent on the face dock. Very protected from wind and waves. Entrance was shallow. We draft 3'6" and showed less than 3' under the keel. Dock master was very helpful both over the phone and at the dock. Private bathrooms with showers were functional and clean as was laundry room. This is a gas station on the highway so there is a bit of road noise and some pedestrian traffic from gas station customers interested in checking out the boats on the face dock. Neither was a problem. Station closes at 7:00 so it quiets down after that.

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Reviewed by: Rick Vicars on Jul 25, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 45'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

5-28-24 Arrived at mid tide favoring north side of channel with 5ft draft without any issue. A good stop to be protected from strong winds. I would not attempt at low tide.

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Reviewed by: D. Jenkins on Jun 29, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 31'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

We stopped for fuel and an over-night before heading North across Albemrale Sound early the following morning. We had no issues at all entering the marina and had good help with our lines as we field and docked. We were the only transients in the marina and had a very quiet night sheltered from wind and wake. We liked the remoteness and found the shower and laundry facility to be clean and functional. The Captain's lounge would have been welcome had we stayed multiple days. The personnel working the service station Grill were welcoming and accommodating. She also prepared some outstanding fried chicken for our dinner ! Very much enjoyed the fried thick -slice balogna sandwich with coffee for breakfast. We also enjoyed talking with locals who stopped by for an early breakfast before work. Have we stayed at "fancier" locations - Certainly. Was this an enjoyable stop that met our needs, and with people who made us feel welcome.... definitely.

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Reviewed by: Kevin Williams , m/v Blue Tortuga, on Apr 28, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 3

Good location for a stopover. In other reviews I've read about boats running aground at the entrance, and I witnessed that happen to a sail boat. If they can't accommodate larger draft boats they shouldn't invite them in. When I made the reservation they asked my beam, and I gave it as 14'. As I'm entering the marina the dock attendant asks for my beam and that I standy because he was managing another boat, which I did. It became apparent when I called back that he had forgotten I was still waiting. He instructed me to bow into a slip he was standing at. I could see it had short fingers, so I asked "bow in", and he said yes. As I'm approaching a fellow boater points out to him that my beam won't fit in that slip- so he asks my "is your beam 14'?" I say yes and he asks that I "park behind the big boat", to which I then have to clarify what he means. Overall communication was poor.

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Reviewed by: Amylynn Dodge on Apr 14, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 31'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 4

We had a good stop. Spent 2 nights waiting for winds to calm so we could proceed north. They have all the basics needed. The gas station has a small menu of grill foods/sandwiches. Their burgers were our favorite. Basic supplies like other marina stores including souvenirs. Staff were nice. 4 stars only because they are not near any towns & don't really have a good walking area. We like to walk 2-3 mikes/day when on land. We wouldn't hesitate to stay there again.

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Reviewed by: Jess , Jacinta, on Feb 10, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 40'
Draft: 5.4'

Rating: 1

Tried multiple times to enter but kept getting stuck in the shoaling at the entrance. I draw 5'4" and had called ahead and was told it would not be a problem. Another sailboat that draws 5' got stuck too but was able to push through with some throttle.

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Reviewed by: Jackie Mathews on Jan 30, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 45'
Draft: 6.0'

Rating: 3

Called and confirmed that their max depth is 5'8" so they weren't able to take us as we draft 6'.

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Reviewed by: Jo-Anne Whiteman , Dreamboat, on Jan 5, 2024
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 46'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 3

Beware of shoaling at the marina entrance. We have a draft of 5.5 and were not able to get in. It was windy the day before and that may have added to the shoaling. Dock master tried to help guide us but it was just too shallow.

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Reviewed by: David Gallus , Curious, on Dec 7, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

I had a unique situation, I am sure. I had broken down numerous times, with engine problems crossing The Albemarle Sound. I am single-handing; the only crew is my 97 year old mother, with a heart condition-she can't help at all.
I lost my two good anchors, having to cut them due to strong wind and wave action. The first anchor which I set to hold while effecting repairs. After getting started and with no crew to steer, I couldn't ride up on the anchor to break it loose, the boat kept falling off; the wind and waves were too strong. That was my big Danforth anchor. I broke down again about half way across. I then set my big CQR anchor with 60 ft of chain and 5/8" line.
Attempting repairs again was impossible because the weather got worse and my Mother being sea sick, with a heart condition, I called for a tow. I was told it was too rough to come out, and with darkness soon, I would have spend the night on The Sound. I don't think my Mother would have lasted; I had to call the Coast Guard. A crew was dispatched and was on-scene within 1 hour. The crew was very professional and took me in tow with one of their crew onboard with me. Even their best efforts to raise my anchor failed and we had to cut my 2nd anchor. They towed me to The Alligator River Marina where I spent the next 8 days, making repairs and getting supplies. I was so relieved to get to the safe harbor. During that time I could watch The Albemarle Sound boil while I lay on the very protected sea-wall, inside the jetty. I was treated so well it was almost embarrassing. The manager of the Marina, Charles Mc Kenney, contacted West Marine and ordered the ground tackle, made a separate trip to NAPA auto supplies for fuel filters, delivered everything to me on my boat and even offered to grocery shop for me. He even saved me money by using his influence with the distributors. He couldn't have been more helpful. And this generosity was extended from his staff as well; all were very accommodating and helpful. One employee especially was Lisa; my Mother needed medication so I had it sent to the Marina where Lisa delivered it to the boat but then she drove me the 20 miles to town to grocery shop while the rest of the crew covered for her. I can't say enough good about how I was treated by everyone at the Alligator River Marina. Thank you all.

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Reviewed by: Capt Maria Langer , Do It Now, on Nov 3, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 32'
Draft: 2.5'

Rating: 3

I'm with everyone else: this is a gas station with docking facilities. I was "stuck" here three nights waiting out weather and a small craft advisory and I was glad to leave, although it wasn't awful.

Pros:
- Good fuel price
- Very sheltered
- Little tide change
- Sturdy dock wall
- Fried chicken
- Restrooms with showers and laundry
- Pet friendly with lots of grass for a dog to run on

Cons:
- Nothing much there
- Some road noise
- Other than a small food menu, only junk food in the store. (Honestly, I didn't know so many varieties of junk food existed.)
- Slips look flimsy. (Opt for the dock wall.)
- Unskilled/inexperienced dockhands.

More about the dockhands: When I came in before noon after a rough crossing of Arbemarle Sound, I told them I needed fuel and was directed to a spot on the dock wall slightly beyond the diesel pump where I could also stay for the night. An older woman -- older than me -- was there to direct me. I brought my boat right up to the spot where she stood, using steering under power and my thrusters against the breeze. Honestly: it was a perfect landing. But before I could toss her a midship line or get out of the boat, she reached onto the bow rail, grabbed the bow line, and yanked it in. Result: the boat's stern swung away from the dock as the bow came in. I asked her numerous times to slacken the bow line but she just didn't understand until I yelled at her. Finally, with slack in the line, I was able to bring the boat in again and get off with a midship line. I secured the boat. (Single-handing has its own challenges and they're often made worse by a "dockhand" who doesn't know what he/she is doing. I would have done better without the "help" I got there that day.) Later that day I witnessed the "dockmaster" try to guide a large trawler into one of the slips on the opposite side of the marina. The slip was obviously not large enough. Finally, the boat moved to the dock wall where it fit and tied up there. All the other boats that came during my stay parked along the dock wall. Most stayed just one night.

Would I stay there again? If I had to. Again, it's a good sheltered spot along the way. And the price is reasonable, especially with the Boat US discount.

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Reviewed by: Gary Miller on Oct 9, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 76'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

Decent marina, 100 amp works good, dock is solid, saw about 7-8" on way in with not much tide, price is very good, did not try water due to previous comments, food was good.

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Reviewed by: Jessica Knapp , What Could Go Wrong, on Sep 21, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 2

I have committed to reviewing every marina I am staying at along the ICW and Bahamas that is on Waterway, so I am writing this. But essentially, I want to write, "see the review before mine."
This is a gas station with a dock. It was convenient for our overall travel plan, but we pulled out as early as we could after 1 night of docking. It is really noisy and not a great place to sleep. If you are not travelling with dogs and are traveling South and can grab an anchor in the river, I would highly recommend that over this. Just my $.02.

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Reviewed by: Brenda King , Escapade, on Jun 22, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 53'
Draft: 0.0'

Rating: 2

Not a destination marina but an ok place to tie up for a night. It's basically a gas station with a marina and the docks are right by the highway so it's noisy and also buggy too.

The staff were nice and there was someone on the dock to get us tied up.
What little amenities they have are across the water and inconvenient. The fixed docks are solid but make boarding a bit difficult especially for the pooch.

There is nothing to do here and no way to get to Manteo or anywhere else as Uber and Lyft drivers are scarce.

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Reviewed by: Dave on May 29, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 35'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Charles, Clarissa and the crew at Alligator Marina helped us a ton in making our stay at their marina excellent. Good food, a great slip, diesel and one of the most protected and spacious Marinas we stayed at on the ICW.

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Reviewed by: Daniel Warthan on May 10, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

Would only use when in need to get tied down from bad winds or storm coming through. Definitely needs updating. No help except fellow loopers to tie up.

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Reviewed by: Alison Morrow on Apr 28, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 14.0'

Rating: 3

Very rustic marina in the middle of Nowhere! Showers were in need of update as was the lounge. Washers and dryers were available for $2 each. Cold well water only. We were there 2 nights due to bad weather. Food at gas station was surprisingly good. Docks were reasonably priced and were good in wind. Can be difficult to get off the docks. Dock help was sporadic.

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Reviewed by: Lori Pickette on Apr 24, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 37'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 2

Not that there will be a next time, but I think we'll explore other options or time it so we have other options. Amenities are limited, docks are fixed and short. If you have a pet it could be challenging to get them on/off the boat unless you get a side-tie on the fuel dock.

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Reviewed by: Captain Gene on Oct 29, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

10 23 2022 stayed two nights as weather was lousy. Showers could use some cleaning 5 5 2018 stayed a night. Showers and restrooms OK. Staff was friendly enough and helped us into slip. Called on phone in morning to book slip no problem. Called on VHF on arrival and assigned slip with help waiting to help us dock. Docks are fixed with plenty of pilings to tie to in decent condition.

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Reviewed by: Christopher Pope on Jul 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 3.4'

Rating: 5

Great staff and the perfect location. Prior to crossing the sound - this is a great spot to get fuel and grab some snacks for the boat.

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Reviewed by: Kirk Conners , Fancy Nancy, on Jul 7, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Marina is functional for a one night stopover, but not much else. Fixed dock (face dock close to entry for us) was in good shape. We found plenty of water coming in, as opposed other reviews. Dock hands helped with tying the boat up.
Restrooms and showers are a long walk from the face dock, but they are clean and orderly. Didn't use showers, but 2 of the 3 looked OK.
The grill is good, and the fried chicken was OK.
All in all, good marina, and I'd stop here again.

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Reviewed by: Bill Mcmahon on May 28, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 3

New solid fixed docks. A little shallow getting in. The short finger pier (12') made it hard to get on and off the boat. The boat house had 3 home style bathrooms. Laundry and lounge with big screen TV.\ and Good wifi.
The gas station on site has a fast food grill style restaurant with good fried chicken.
The water there is hard. We filled one tank there and wound up dumping it and filling it again at our next chance. Fortunately it was in only one of 3 water tanks we have.

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Reviewed by: Doug & Judi Pelton on May 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 57'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 2

Functional. Necessary. A good option if you don't want to anchor. Watch the depths on entry. Told we had plenty of room for our 4.5' draft but a neighboring boat w same draft touched. Our depth finder indicated 6 inches when we turned around for bow facing out toward river on the flat gas dock. Bottom is said to be mud...proceed w caution.

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Reviewed by: Laura Briggs , Simpatico, on Apr 18, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 34'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

Nicely improved docks (over a year ago). Great docking assistance (thanks, Ian!). Decent restrooms. Showers a little run down and I'd avoid using the laundry facilities. As others have noted - basically a gas station with a marina in the back. But really nice folks. Good fried chicken! Great launching point for the Albemarle crossing!

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Reviewed by: Brian Wicks on Apr 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 27'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 4

Great marina to stop before crossing the Ablemarle Sound. Wonderful staff (Charles and staff in the kitchen). Helped us dock and get situated (note if you want help best to arrive between 12p and 6p when Charles works). Great Fried Chicken and breakfast sandwiches. Clean facilities. Finger docks very narrow and fixed docks so made getting in and out of boat a challenge.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Jan 11, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

The marina is a facedock with a few fixed slips next to a gas station. We usually refuel here and take a facedock (hang fenders horizontally). The WiFi works and the marina is very protected from waves although you're exposed to the wind. They have laundry facilities but we've had problems with getting laundry dry there. We no longer do laundry at this marina. The facedocks are easier to use but there's an additional charge and you must reserve them in advance. The entrance will shoal over time and has to be periodically dredged. In the fall of 2021, the minimum depth was 5.9 ft at the entrance, deeper inside.

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Reviewed by: Jelles Fonda , Talulah, on Nov 19, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 44'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Left off 1 star only because it is not a resort place. It is a plain marina in the middle of nowhere, and it is great just as it is, in our opinion. But we are posting this review to thank the associated gas station/convenience store grill for THE BEST fried chicken we have ever had. Ever.

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Reviewed by: Jeanne N , Telesto, on Oct 30, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 38'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 5

Great place to tuck in out of gale force winds. Diesel, nice docks, ok bathrooms. There's a gas station convenience store that was said to have the best fried chicken so we had to try it. Needed some salt but was delish. Very friendly and helpful staff.

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Reviewed by: Douglas Ellison , Vayu, on Oct 21, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 3

As others have said it's a gas station with slips in an area that cries out for an alternative to anchoring. Saw 6ft on the approach rather than the posted 8ft. Slips are the worst kind - half gangway with pilings. I single hand so docking was a nightmare. Helpful staff to the extent they can from the shoreside. Food is ok but novel. Showers and toilets are substandard.

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Reviewed by: Robert Hedrick , Morning Starr, on Sep 30, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 34'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Stayed here on August 30, 2021 and again on September 20, 2021. It's just a roadside gas station with a dock but we like it! Friendly staff, dock hands know what they are doing. The fried chicken is very good. They close the station at 6pm but open early for the local crabbers that use the marina as a base. Breakfast sandwiches are wonderful.

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Reviewed by: Capt. Sterling on Jul 31, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

If on a trawler or sailboat one of those must stop locations do to it's location. Some wifi and marginal phone service.

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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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Reviewed by: Jacqueline Meyer on Jul 5, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 36'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 3

Staff friendly to customers, but bickered amongst themselves. Bath house and restrooms dirty. Cold water only for washing machine. New wood docks in good condition. WiFi reaches face dock only. It is a gas station with docks. There is food available that is typical gas station fare. Better than Mc Donald's, but not as good as Waffle House. We draw 5'2" and did not bump bottom.

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Reviewed by: David Butziger on Jun 18, 2021
LOA: 42'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

Great little marina with nice staff. Shut off your lights though. The bugs can be crazy.

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Reviewed by: Jim Zeigler on May 25, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

I'll agree with Ross Wiltse. This is a good option when the Albemarle Sound kicks up. Just follow the marks into the marina. Not a resort, but you have power, water, fresh food, fuel and clean showers. There are nearby unmarked anchorage north of the bridge, but not something I want to explore when the wind has kicked up.

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Reviewed by: Ross Wiltse on May 23, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 4

I may be biased on this review: We ran north on the Alligator river in some snotty weather. This marina took us in last minute, and we were very thankful. The staff was on the dock ready for us. The marina is well protected so we were glad to get out of the unpredicted winds and waves. It is a gas station with a marina, but the bathrooms were decent, and there is a lounge if you need it. Fixed docks, but we didn't care. It is a good place to stay waiting out a weather window going across the Albemarle Sound or the Alligator River.

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Reviewed by: Paula Adams , Wicked Good, on Apr 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 48'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 3

Ducked in here for the night as our plans for anchoring were foiled due to high winds. We were concerned about depth on approach but was assured by Marina that they dredge regularly and to stay in the middle of the channel. We draw 5’ 8”; came in at low tide; and had no problem. Lowest reading on depth sounder was 5.5’ but we never bumped or turned up bottom. For this we are very happy! No water dockside as the spigot is broken. Did not use facilities. Husband had a couple of hot dogs from the cafe and they were delish!

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Reviewed by: Paula Adams , Wicked Good, on Apr 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 48'
Draft: 5.5'

Rating: 3

Ducked in here for the night as our plans for anchoring were foiled due to high winds. We were concerned about depth on approach but was assured by Marina that they dredge regularly and to stay in the middle of the channel. We draw 5’ 8”; came in at low tide; and had no problem. Lowest reading on depth sounder was 5.5’ but we never bumped or turned up bottom. For this we are very happy! No water dockside as the spigot is broken. Husband had a couple of hot dogs from the cafe and they were delish!

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Reviewed by: Rob Dare , Liberty Call , on Apr 17, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 46'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 3

This is a nice marina that is a great stopping spot. There is a lot of work going on to improve the marina including dredging of the entrance. We saw 7 ft all the way thru the channel. The grill is fantastic. We enjoyed both lunch and dinner. Bathroom and lounge are like new. Half the marina already has new wood docking. Lots of green space to walk the dog. Beautiful sunsets and sunrises.

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Reviewed by: Gin Price on Dec 31, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 32'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 1

We grounded here next to the sea wall after the manager assured us there was plenty of water for us in the channel and that we were in the deepest part of the channel. Lots of barely submerged piles near us at the channel edge as we were working to unground. We spent the night on the hook in an exposed Alligator River spot instead. Tides here are wind-driven and have been low, but we would have appreciated more honesty from management.

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Reviewed by: Michael Doherty on Dec 8, 2020
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 40'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 2

We were told that we should have no problems with a 5'1" keel getting in and out. We 'bumped in' and could not get out - had to be towed. If you draw more than 4' keep going. Very nice people who keep everything clean and in good working order. Once they get the channel dredged I'll be back.

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Reviewed by: Ray Parrish on May 20, 2020
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 51'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 3

There are a number of positives here at Alligator River Marina. The people are great and provide a good service. Wi-Fi is great and the marina harbor is well protected. Wi-Fi is very good. We streamed Netflix very successfully with no data limit. The facilities, however, could use some work.
The entrance channel has silted in, but is supposed to be dredged out sometime in the future. I was told by the Dockmaster that I should have plenty of water on the starboard side of the channel, but we did not. We had zero depth below our 4.5’ keel on the way in and bumped the bottom. There are signs of repairing storm damage on the docks with some new decking on the docks over by the showers. The water here is well water and not recommended for putting in your boat. The shower heads were mostly clogged with rust colored mineral deposits. The showers work, but are not ideal. The food is pretty good. The eat-in dining room is closed due to Covid-19, but the take-out is good. The Marina could be much better. I think the gas station/convenience store takes priority over marina operation and maintenance. This is our second time here since this marina is in a good location between Coinjock and Belhaven. We hope they work to improve the facilities here soon.

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Reviewed by: Anita Smith on May 9, 2020
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 4

9’ on approach from main channel. Once at the daymakers at the entrance the depth goes to 5.2 ft until you reach the face dock on the left and then it goes back down to 8’. Great protection inside. We were charged $1.75/ft w/o electric which seemed high for what it is there. Certainly a good stop between Belhaven and Elizabeth City. diesel was $2.43.

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Reviewed by: Len Barton , Short Dog II, on Mar 11, 2020
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 44'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

It’s still being remodeled but is quiet, friendly and affordable. It’s also a gas station and convenience store. They serve meals too and the chicken dinner is fantastic. The 8 piece meal will serve two.

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Reviewed by: Brad on Feb 27, 2020
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 48'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

New docks in 1/2 the marina and understand dredging to be completed before spring. Updates in the store. Friendly staff with great grill. Improves every time we visit.

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Reviewed by: Rob Irvine on Nov 7, 2019
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 35'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

Very good location. Makes for a short trip from Coinjock. Water supply not so good. Docks need some repair. The bathrooms are clean. This marina has potential but it's not there yet.

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Reviewed by: Tina Pickell on Nov 7, 2019
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 62'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Quiet protected marina with minimal facilities, really a gas station, quick mart with dockage. Grassy areas are neatly mowed-- good for pet walking. Dock are in nice shape.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Oct 8, 2019
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Good WiFi, protected.

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Reviewed by: Docford , Last Dance, on Jul 15, 2019
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 40'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 4

Have to agree with the many positive comments about Alligator River Marina. Great people. The dockmaster actually knew how to use a spring line to pull the boat sideways to the dock. Did so without being asked. It is well protected. There is a huge grassy area right next to the dock for dock walking with grass that would make any homeowner proud. Interesting restaurant. Nice individual bathrooms.

The only drawbacks - not really criticism - is the high sulfur and iron content well water and the fact that they close at 6 pm on Sunday and 7 pm on all other days. Who closes a restaurant and gas station at 6 pm? Just plan dinner early and fill your water tanks elsewhere. Enjoyable stop.

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Reviewed by: Brian McLamb on Jul 2, 2019
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 18'
Draft: 1.0'

Rating: 4

Excellent service at cafe. Very affordable ramp fee and bagged ice. Enjoyed fish sandwiches and gator bites. Clean facilities well maintained. Ramp is solid concrete and gradual incline so easy to use.

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Reviewed by: Harry on Jun 15, 2019
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 39'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 3

Nice protected marina. Pumpout does not work. Dock attendant was helpful explaining the services available and location of bathhouses.
A little noise from the highway but not a problem.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Oct 12, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 3

It’s a gas station with marina slips. However, the marina is very protected from any wave action by two long jetties. It was secure enough that I chose to ride out Hurricane Michael here tied to the bulkhead, we did fine.

They have a small restaurant inside that cooks to order. I would recommend sampling the ice cream cones, very good.

Miss Wanda is no longer there, she sold the marina to the present owners. The dock hand does a good job with your lines. They have washers and dryers. There is nothing else nearby.

A big plus is outstanding WiFi! I measured 40 Mbps!

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Reviewed by: Ontheroad on Jul 31, 2018
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 3.0'

Rating: 5

Met by dockmaster who was attentive with lines. Offered ride to office on golf cart. Easy entrance for face docking. Local water had "taste" so used onboard water. Excellent wifi connection. Does not have unleaded. Has restaurant for meals.

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Reviewed by: Robert Sherer on Jun 30, 2018
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 42'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

The great advantage of this marina is the location. There are anchorages nearby but then you risk fuzzy bills. If you happen to hit an anchorage during spawning, your boat will be covered in green slime.

The marina is a filling station with docks and a small restaurant. The internet works and the people are friendly and refueling is easy with usually good prices. Don't miss getting an ice cream cone before they close at night.

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Reviewed by: Eddy Johnsen , Spiritus, on Apr 24, 2018
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 4

This may not be a "must visit" location, but if the weather turns ugly on the Albemarle you'll be glad it's here! It is safe, protected, and meets the essential needs of cruisers. The friendly staff will make you feel like a local. Grounds are well-groomed and wooden docks are regularly maintained. The boater's lounge is very comfortable and has Direct TV. The wi-fi is exceptionally good. Four clean, individual bathrooms with showers. Note: This marina is located out in the country and only has well water on the property.

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Reviewed by: Robert Alexander on Dec 8, 2017
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 65'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

Have been visiting for many years and my recent visit found the marina and grounds in great condition with the marina and restaurant staff eager to accommodate boaters any way that they can. Hard to beat that fried chicken!

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Reviewed by: Gabriel Mondragon on Oct 6, 2017
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 26'
Draft: 4.0'

Rating: 5

Absolutely fantastic place. Great prices on beer, wonderful staff. 10/10

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Reviewed by: Janet on Jul 7, 2017
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 38'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Read some bad reviews but the marina is under new ownership as of this week. Very friendly and helpful staff. Very dog friendly with large green spaces to run Fido. Showers are clean but not updated yet. They appear to be working on them. Easy to navigate the entry and plenty of water, dockside 6-7 ft. Calm protected basin.

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Reviewed by: Bill Lawrenson on May 24, 2017
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 36'
Draft: 4.5'

Rating: 5

I did not have great expectations for this marina, but I was wrong. Great staff, good food and wonderfully clean showers. Solid dock. What they have is in top condition.

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Reviewed by: Andrew Skelton on Nov 20, 2016
Draft: 0.0'

Rating: 3

Very friendly staff. Great fried chicken at the gas station. Restrooms/showers okay however no hand soap or paper towels. Slips, restrooms, laundry and a gas station. That's it.

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Reviewed by: Jim Hughes on Nov 17, 2016
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

Fine establishment. Everyone made us feel welcomed. Make sure you have breakfast. Excellent

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Reviewed by: Edward Hoyles on Jun 1, 2016

Alligator River Marina: 
Easy entrance, good people, easy fueling, clean and local combo store and diner.

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