Marina Review for Safe Harbor Port Royal Landing

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

A big shout out to Michelle, Ivy, and Saber for their fantastic customer service. I made a quick fuel stop passing through, and they are great. The fuel dock is right off the channel, coming into Port Royal/ Beaufort from HHI. The tidal current can rip through there, so just be aware. The facilities are nice, and there is a restaurant on-site for lunch and dinner.

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Marina Review for Osprey Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

It is a nice, quiet marina that is very convenient right off the ICW. There is no restaurant on-site, but there are many options a short Uber away. The dock and facilities are well taken care of. I'll stop there in the future.

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Marina Review for Georgetown Landing Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 4

We just stopped for fuel, and the staff was very helpful. With the tide change, the current can rip through there, and you're exposed to the wind. But overall, it was easy to get in and out and there was good service.

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Anchorage Review for Mile Hammock Bay

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.6'

A great spot that is easy to get into at the end of a long day. You are just off the Marine Corps base so there can be a little noise with helicopters buzzing. But it's cool to see them coming in.

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Marina Review for Dowry Creek Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 3, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 41'
Draft: 3.6'

Rating: 5

I picked up a boat here last week to deliver south and found a gem. It was a little remote from town, but the staff was fantastic, which made up for being way outside of town. The facilities are excellent and right off the main channel. This is at the top of my list for future stops up and down the ICW.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Port Royal Landing

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Apr 23, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 25'
Draft: 2.0'

Rating: 5

I just moved to the Beaufort, SC, area and had the opportunity to meet Michelle getting fuel at Port Royal Landing. She is fantastic and has a wealth of knowledge. The fuel dock is very convenient, just off the channel: fair fuel pricing and a convenient location for transients.

The section of the river between the McTeer Bridge next to the marina and the swing Bridge in downtown Beaufort is a NO WAKE zone. So, as you travel through the area, please observe the no-wake zone.

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Marina Review for Erwin Marine Riverfront

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 7, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 5

Something I forgot to mention in my last review is that the fuel dock has new pay at the pump fuel pumps. They have raised the after-hours limit because of higher $$$, but credit card fraud is an issue. But during their regular work day, they will open it up for whatever amount you need. After-hours if you need a major fill-up you will need to re-start the cc process after each maximum limit it reached.

Their sister location Pine Harbor Marina up on Chickamauga Lake up Soddy Creek at mm 487.5, also has the new credit card pumps. A nice feature when you need to fuel after-hours to keep on a schedule. Another of their locations, Chickamauga Marina near Chickamauga L&D mm 471, is scheduled to get the credit card pumps soon. CC pumps are rare on the Tenn River so this is super convenient.

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Marina Review for Blue Springs Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 4

Good location and place to stop if you are looking for the halfway point between Chattanooga and Knoxville.

Fuel docks are easy to get in and out of. Their fuel pricing was in the middle range. During this delivery, I found gas way higher and some lower. They generally have good facilities, restrooms, showers, a ship's store, and a restaurant only open Thursday - Sunday. Wi-fi seemed to work well, and when we arrived, there were a few staff to help. Transient fees were $1 / foot, which was as low as I had on this trip. The office staff wasn't what I would call friendly, but the facilities were good. I'll stop there the next time through.

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Marina Review for Erwin Marine Riverfront

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 5

Location, location, location. In downtown Chattanooga, you are docked right in the middle of everything. The fuel dock is downriver of the transient docking area, but their fuel prices are about the best I have found on the Tenn River. The only drawback is they do not have your typical marina amenities. But who wants to be doing laundry when you are tied up in one of the best locations on the river? Get off your boat and enjoy the city.

There are some currents, but it is a river, so tie up your bow facing up into the current with an extra spring line, and you are good. This is a busy boating area on weekends so expect to get rocked some.

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Marina Review for Hales Bar Marina and Resort

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 2

This marina is very hard to get into because of the old railroad beds between it and the main channel. Their transient rate is the highest I have seen on the Tenn River at $1.50/foot. Most other marinas are $1 to $1.25/foot. They have fuel and basic supplies, and the people are friendly.

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Marina Review for Guntersville Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 4

Great people and a good transient stop in this area if you need it. They have fuel at a reasonable price and mechanics on staff. The fuel dock is easy to get in and out of as long as you pay attention to the buoys, but if you don't, you can get yourself in trouble. No restaurant or showers, but a clean restroom.

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Marina Review for Joe Wheeler State Park

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 3

Good price for fuel with fast fills. Hours are limited at the fuel dock on the weekdays, but everyone there is helpful. Transient slips are convenient since they are next to the main lodge, and you can arrive anytime and check in at the front desk 24-7. Basic services, fuel, and a place to tie up for the night.

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Marina Review for Grand Harbor Marina, LLC

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Aug 5, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 85'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 3

I just finished a delivery from Grand Harbor to Knoxville, and this marina was by far the highest fuel prices I ran across. The location is super convenient, but it is exposed to boat traffic. The transient slips are open to a ton of boat wakes. Nice facilities but not my first choice in this area.

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Anchorage Review for Fort McRee

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jan 25, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 4.6'

This has to be one of the most beautiful anchorages I have dropped anchor in. It was easy to access with a 4.6' draft boat. We were there in January and the only ones there, but I have been by there in July and it was packed. Watch your chart plotter and stay between the no-wake makers when you approach. in the cove, you will have 9 to 10' to anchor in.

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Marina Review for Loggerhead Marina - St. Petersburg Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jan 25, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 4

A nice, protected location. Limited on the size of boats due to the bridge. Good facilities and easy to access fuel dock. There is a grocery within a 10 to 15 min walk but not much else. You will need to Uber or have a car to get to most places.

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Marina Review for Water Street Hotel and Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jan 25, 2022
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 50'
Draft: 4.6'

Rating: 4

This is a great place to get fuel and spend the night. Right off the ICW and well protected. Nice facilities and there is a restaurant on site. It was closed the night we were there. It was an easy 10-minute walk to downtown with options for dinner. Definitely someplace I will stop at again.

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Lock comment on Fort Loudon Lock and Dam

Comment by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 26, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 80'
Draft: 3.5'

Call the lock for their hours of operation when traveling this section of the river. It can change seasonally. What is listed is not necessarily correct year-round.

• WG Editor Comment:
  

  Waterway Guide will review the schedule and post appropriate changes.

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Marina Review for Joe Wheeler State Park

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 26, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 80'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

This a great stop along the TN River. Good transient docks, restaurant, fuel, and pump out. The lodge handles the transient slips, so they are open 24/7. The fuel dock closes early and typical for most state parks. A well-protected cove and close to Wheeler Lock if you try to get a quick start in the morning or a late arrival coming in after a long day, it's in a great location. Not close to anything for provisioning is about the only drawback.

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Lock comment on Chickamauga Lock & Dam

Comment by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 26, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 3.5'

After decades of going through Locks on the Western River System, after talking to the lockmaster for Chickamauga Lock, TN, I learned something new. I praised one of his lock operators and how professional he was when I was locking through last week during some nasty weather with engine issues. The lockmaster indicated my comment would be put on his operators' performance file and help him receive a bonus. I always like to be professional and pleasant since they catch grief from many people, so I will tell the boss when exceptional service. Be friendly, and they can make your journey much more enjoyable.

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Marina Review for Euchee Marina & Campground

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 22, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 80'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

During a delivery last week, I stopped overnight and fueled up. Everyone, there was accommodating. The marina only has gas, and depending on where on the transient dock you tie up, you may not have power. Please make sure you tell marina staff you need power when you make reservations. They have a restaurant, a bathhouse, and an outside bar by the dock. The transient fee was very reasonable at, I think, $1/foot. Gas $$ is in line with other places on the river. Easy to get into just off the channel and a good halfway point between Ft. Loudoun Lake and Chattanooga. . It was my first time stopping there because I usually need diesel which they don't have. If you are looking for an excellent place to stop, you don't need diesel, I would recommend it.

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Marina Review for Erwin Marine Riverfront

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Here is a quick addition to my earlier comments. They do have a credit card pump on the fuel dock, but after hours, it will only let you put in $100 at a time. Not convenient for a larger boat at the current fuel prices. So, you have to start over after the $100 limit constantly. Plus, the pumps are old, and you can't read the gallons or price. It still is an excellent stop if you are in the area.

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Marina Review for Erwin Marine Riverfront

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on Jun 12, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

The waterfront of Chattanooga is a must-stop if you are in the region. Great location and easy access to downtown. The marina itself provides fuel and a pump-out but not much else. It is the only marina in the area without going through Chickamauga Lock. Easy access with plenty of water depth for bigger boats.

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Marina Review for Ditto Landing Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 10, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Making deliveries up and down the Tenn River, I have stopped here a few times just for fuel and twice for overnight transient. Super convenient just off the Tenn River and a great midway point between Chattanooga and the entrance to the TennTom. Good facilities with a shower, 50 AMP power, easy access fuel dock, and transient slips all reasonably priced. The fuel dock has credit card service, so you can get fuel 24 hours, even when closed, one of the few on the river. There are no restaurants or stores nearby, but the ships store has a few things, and it's a safe harbor with all the basics.

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Marina Review for Gold Point Yacht Harbor

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 36'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Best marina to keep your boat in the Chattanooga area. It is clean and well taken care of. It has a pump-out and bathhouse with laundry facilities but no fuel. You will need to go across the lake to their other marina for fuel and ship store.

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Marina Review for Kingfisher Bay Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 62'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

A great facility and I enjoy stopping every time I make a delivery through there. They have a new fuel dock inside the protected harbor that just opened in April 2021. Great bathhouse with washers/dryers plus access to a courtesy car. Fair rates on everything.

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Marina Review for Bobby's Fish Camp

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 62'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 2

Bobby's has the very basics. The restaurant is closed, and the dock is showing its age. On a 12 day delivery, this was our most expensive stop with the least amount of service or amenities: high fuel prices and unreliable electricity. I had to switch power plugs twice to get one to work. You don't have any options other than here if you have to stop.

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Marina Review for Surfside Marina

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 4

A nice facility but the most expensive stop I have had at $2 / ft. Diesel is in the middle price range, but the facilities are the best I have experienced in the GIWW, TennTom, or most rivers I've traveled. Nice staff with a good ships store. I'd recommend it if you need a good safe, clean, and convenient stop.

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Marina Review for Shell Morgan Landing Inc.

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 60'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

This is one of the only stops along this stretch of the GIWW but a classic. The Morgan family has owned and run this since 1930, so if you have questions about the area, Tony and his brother are a wealth of knowledge. Overnight docking is a $25 flat fee with electricity (50 AMP) and water. Diesel is the cheapest I have found anywhere by a long shot. They do close early but open early since they are mainly there to service the commercial traffic.

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Marina Review for Safe Harbor Aqua Yacht

Reviewed by: Capt. Jeff Gephart on May 9, 2021
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 62'
Draft: 5.0'

Rating: 5

I have traveled through the area 6 times in the last 18 months making deliveries, and Aqua Yacht Harbor has become a must-stop. I have tried others in the area, but Aqua is the best overall. It has the very best service facilities in the region and very professional. The fuel and transient dock is convenient.

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