Winter marina destination in mid-Florida 2021-22

[Mr. Ed]

I've been dreaming of and planning for this trip down the ICW for many years, and now (post Covid) that it's likely to happen I'm trying to decide on a marina to use as a base of operations and spend most of the winter tied up and plugged in.

Big cities and crowds don't interest me. What I'd like to find is a small, locally owned marina with the usual amenities, a restaurant and tiki bar on site, and shopping in easy walking distance. The marine version of Cheers, if you remember the old tv show.

I met some other cruisers this past week at the Oriental Marina and Inn (spectacular place, BTW, and exactly what I'm looking for in FL) and they recommended the Sunset Bay Marina in Stuart. I visited there, and it would be perfect. Sadly, their reservation list is full, and I'm now on the bottom of a long waiting list with not much chance of success.

I'd be most grateful for suggestions from folks who have local knowledge. Thanks in advance!

 

[fishheadbarandgrill]

Fort Pierce City Marina, Vero Beach City Marina, Titusville, New Smyrna Beach City Marina. Palm Coast Marina, City of DelRey Beach Marina...

 

[knotflying]

Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda, Blackfin marina in Marathon, Aquamarina Palm Harbour in Placida

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

Legacy Marina in Ft Myers.

JIm

 

[Mr. Ed]

Legacy Marina in Ft Myers.

JIm

Thanks, Jim! So far this one looks like the best fit for what I'd like to find. They have a waiting list, and I'm on it just in case something opens up.

I knew I could count on the experience of my fellow tugnuts!

And thanks to everybody else. I've looked at all of the other suggestions, and appreciate your thoughts. Feel free to keep the suggestions coming. :mrgreen:

 

[Brian B]

Also City of Ft Myers Yacht Basin. Downtown Ft Myers has a lot to offer, all within walking distance of the marinas. I live across the river in N Ft Myers.