Boat Docking In Tampa Bay: Where To Dock Your Boat

Tampa, Florida, is a great place for boating, with several marinas and docks in and around the city. If you're looking for a place to dock your boat near Tampa Bay, there are plenty of options to choose from, each offering its own unique set of amenities and attractions. From the private Shell Point Marina at the mouth of the Little Manatee River to the convenient Seddon Channel docks, there is something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a quiet, secluded spot or a lively destination with easy access to downtown Tampa, you're sure to find the perfect boat dock to suit your needs.

The Shell Point Marina

The dry storage option at Shell Point Marina caters to boats ranging from 18' to 32' in length. The monthly fee includes unlimited launches, complimentary engine flushing, and hull washdown upon return to the marina. The dry storage area is accessible 24/7 through their web-based boat scheduling program.

For those seeking a more traditional marina experience, the wet slips at Shell Point Marina provide sheltered docking for both powerboats and sailboats. Secluded behind mangrove-covered islands, these slips offer stunning sunset views and can accommodate watercraft up to 50' in length with 5' drafts.

In addition to its boating facilities, Shell Point Marina also boasts an entertainment pavilion with a tiki theme. Here, guests can enjoy games such as pool and air hockey, and even interact with the marina's resident leopard tortoises. The marina also offers guided tours daily from 8 am to 5 pm, showcasing the unique "Old School Florida" charm that sets it apart from corporate marina chains.

Seddon Channel

The Seddon Channel is located in Tampa, Florida, in the northern portion of Hillsborough Bay near the Garrison Channel. It is one of the many branches of water that split in and around the Davis and Harbour Islands area, about five miles southeast of Tampa International Airport. The channel is named after Seddon Island, which is located nearby.

The Seddon Channel is a cultural feature in Hillsborough County, Florida, and is known for its beautiful marinas and state-of-the-art facilities. The area used to be a commercial port and shipping area, but it has recently given way to the construction of hotels, marine basins, and waterfront shopping developments. Despite the modern developments, the channel retains its maritime significance.

There are a variety of marinas and accommodations in the Seddon Channel/Davis Islands area. The Davis Islands Yacht Club, visible in the protected harbor, offers transient slips, a restaurant, a pool, and showers/restrooms. The Marjorie Park Yacht Basin, located off the Seddon Channel on the east side of Davis Islands, is another popular option for boaters.

Navigating the Seddon Channel can be challenging due to the busy ship traffic, ranging from large cruise liners to small commercial barges. To reach the channel, one must navigate up the eastern branch of the Tampa Bay Channel and remain vigilant to avoid large traffic that may have difficulty maneuvering.

The Seddon Channel provides access to various attractions in the area, such as The Sail, a pet-friendly waterfront bar, and Big Ray's Fish Camp, a beloved locally-owned seafood restaurant with outdoor dining. The channel is also within walking distance of several landmarks, including the Florida Aquarium, Amalie Arena, and the Tampa Museum of Art.

Marriott Tampa Water Street Marina

The Marriott Tampa Water Street Marina is a docking destination for boaters in Tampa Bay, Florida. The marina features 32 concrete boat slips that can accommodate vessels of up to 60 feet in length, with both long- and short-term leases available.

Location

The Tampa Marriott Water Street Marina is located in the heart of the vibrant Water Street neighbourhood. It is situated near several area attractions, including the Riverwalk, Sparkman Wharf, Amalie Arena, and the Florida Aquarium. The address for the marina is 505 Water Street, Tampa, Florida, USA, 33602.

Amenities

Access to the marina grants guests entry to all hotel amenities at the Tampa Marriott Water Street and the JW Marriott Water Street, located across the street. These amenities include multiple restaurants and bars with indoor and outdoor seating, three rooftop resort-style pools with sweeping city and water views and private cabanas, a full-service spa with ten treatment suites, a retail boutique, a relaxation lounge, and two state-of-the-art fitness centres.

Rates and Lease Information

The marina offers daily and yearly lease options for boat slips. The daily rate is $10.00 per foot, with a minimum charge of $200 per night. This rate includes shore power (30 or 50 amp) and water. The daily rate is discounted to $7.00 per foot, with a minimum charge of $150 per night, when a hotel room is booked. A three-day cancellation policy applies, with a one-night slip rental charge for cancellations within this period (small craft advisory exempted).

The yearly lease is offered at a monthly rate of $30.00 per foot, with a minimum charge of $800 per month. This rate also includes shore power, water, and valet parking for one vehicle. A security deposit of one month's rent and an active credit card on file are required. Additional valet parking passes are available for $50 per month. This lease option also includes a 20% discount on food and beverage purchases at the on-site restaurants, excluding alcohol.

For slip reservations, guests are requested to email the dock master with their arrival and departure dates, vessel size, contact name, address, and phone number.

The Pointe Marina at Harbour Island

The marina itself is a full-service facility with floating docks and fixed slips capable of accommodating vessels of all sizes, including yachts over 100 feet in length. This makes it one of the only marinas in Tampa Bay with the capacity to handle larger boats. The Pointe Marina is an ideal spot for boat owners looking for a convenient and well-equipped home for their vessels, with direct access to the beautiful waters of Tampa Bay.

In addition to its excellent boating facilities, The Pointe Marina also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. From casual everyday dining to special events and private parties, there's something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy happy hour drinks with friends, a romantic date night, or even a sunset cruise departing from the marina. For those who prefer to stay on land, the nearby restaurants offer patio dining with stunning views of the bay and the downtown Tampa skyline.

The Pointe Marina is also committed to providing opportunities for relaxation and wellness. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, participate in a fitness class, or enjoy a relaxing brunch while taking in the breathtaking bay views. The marina's convenient location on Harbour Island means that a variety of popular attractions are within easy reach, including the Florida Aquarium, Amalie Arena, and the Tampa Bay History Center.

With its combination of first-class boating facilities, dining, entertainment, and easy access to nearby attractions, The Pointe Marina at Harbour Island is a top choice for boaters and visitors seeking a premier waterfront experience in Tampa Bay. Whether you're looking for a place to moor your boat, enjoy a meal, or simply take in the stunning views, The Pointe Marina is a destination that has something for everyone.

Marjorie Park Yacht Basin

The docking rates at Marjorie Park Yacht Basin are $2.00 per hour for up to 4 hours. Daily rates (5-24 hours) are $2.00 per foot per day, and weekly rates are $7.15 per foot plus tax. There are 32 monthly slips available for permanent tenants, but there is currently a waiting list. The building features restrooms, a laundry room, showers, a weather station, and a ship store.

The largest vessel that can be accommodated at the marina is 90 feet, with an approach depth of 21 feet and a dockside depth of 9 feet. The marina is currently temporarily closed due to hurricanes, but it is usually open from 9 am to 5 pm, seven days a week.

Frequently asked questions