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Cruising Guide

Gulf Coast Marina Guide

A comprehensive guide to marinas across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle — covering amenities, nearby accommodations, supply stores, and cruising tips for the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and beyond.

21
Marinas Listed
5
States Covered
1,631
Miles of Coastline
Year-round
Cruising Season

Cruising the Gulf Coast by Boat

The Gulf Coast stretches over 1,600 miles from the Texas-Mexico border to the Florida Panhandle, encompassing some of the most diverse and rewarding cruising waters in North America. From the vast estuary of Galveston Bay and the marshy bayous of Louisiana to the emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle, this coastline offers world-class fishing, year-round warm weather, and a rich maritime culture shaped by centuries of seafaring history.

This guide covers 21 marinas across 5 states and regions, selected for their quality of facilities, transient-friendliness, and relevance to recreational cruisers. For each marina, we provide key details including slip counts, amenities, nearby hotels, and marine supply stores. The guide is organized by state, starting with Texas and moving east along the coast.

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GICW) is the spine of Gulf Coast cruising, providing approximately 1,100 miles of protected inland passage from Brownsville, Texas, to Carrabelle, Florida. The Gulf Coast is also a critical segment of America’s Great Loop, with Mobile, Alabama, serving as the junction between the GICW and the Tenn-Tom Waterway leading to the Tennessee River system. Unlike New England or the Great Lakes, the Gulf offers true year-round boating, though the prime season runs from October through May, outside of hurricane season.

Hurricane season notice: The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity from August through October. All Gulf Coast boaters should have a written hurricane plan and appropriate insurance coverage. Monitor the National Hurricane Center forecasts throughout the season. Many marinas require signed hurricane agreements from all slip tenants.

Texas

TX · 3,359 mi coastline

Texas boasts the longest Gulf coastline of any state, stretching from the Sabine River to the Rio Grande. The protected waters of Galveston Bay, the largest estuary in Texas, form the heart of the state’s recreational boating scene. Corpus Christi Bay, the Laguna Madre, and the Houston Ship Channel area provide diverse cruising options ranging from world-class fishing to coastal island hopping. The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GICW) runs the entire length of the Texas coast, connecting all major boating centers.

Galveston Yacht Basin

Galveston, TX

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One of the oldest and most storied marinas on the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston Yacht Basin sits right off the Galveston Ship Channel with quick access to both the Gulf and Galveston Bay. The 497-slip facility offers covered and uncovered wet slips, dry stack storage, and 24-hour fuel service with four gas pumps and two diesel pumps. Walking distance to the historic Strand District. Coordinates: 29.310°N, 94.790°W.

Slips

497 slips (covered & uncovered) • Max LOA 80 ft

Max LOA

80 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hotel Galvez & Spa (1.5 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Galveston (3 mi)

Fuel dock (24-hr gas & diesel)Pumpout30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryShip storeRestaurant on-siteBait campConciergeDry stack storageTravelift

South Shore Harbour Marina

League City, TX

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One of the largest and most complete resort marinas on the Gulf Coast, South Shore Harbour boasts 855 floating-dock slips with 10-foot depths in a naturally protected hurricane hole on Clear Lake. The facility is surrounded by resort amenities including a 185-foot pool, spa, fitness center, and on-site hotel. Just 20 minutes from Hobby Airport. Coordinates: 29.529°N, 95.091°W.

Slips

855 slips • Max LOA 120 ft

Max LOA

120 ft

Nearby Hotel

South Shore Harbour Resort (On-site)

Supply Store

West Marine League City (4 mi)

Fuel dock (ValvTect gas & diesel)Pumpout30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryPool (185-ft Oasis Pool with swim-up bar)Fitness centerTennis & pickleball courtsFull-service spaResort hotel on-site

Corpus Christi Municipal Marina

Corpus Christi, TX

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The only major downtown marina on the Texas coast, Corpus Christi Municipal Marina is the shimmering centerpiece of the Coastal Bend waterfront. With over 560 wet slips and 70 transient berths, it accommodates vessels up to 150 feet. Steps from restaurants, the Texas State Aquarium, and the USS Lexington Museum. Coordinates: 27.800°N, 97.390°W.

Slips

560+ wet slips (70 transient) • Max LOA 150 ft

Max LOA

150 ft

Nearby Hotel

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel (0.3 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Corpus Christi (5 mi)

Pumpout (free)30/50/100/200 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryDry storagePublic boat rampsLiveaboard allowed

Port Aransas Municipal Marina

Port Aransas, TX

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Officially known as the Dennis Dreyer Municipal Harbor, this city-operated marina provides 240 modern fixed and floating docks on Aransas Pass with direct Gulf access. A premier fishing destination with 12-foot approach depth and 8 boat ramps. Linked with Roberts Point Park, it is the jumping-off point for world-class offshore fishing in the Gulf. Coordinates: 27.836°N, 97.061°W.

Slips

240 slips (40 transient) • Max LOA 100 ft

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Island Hotel Port Aransas (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Fisherman’s Wharf Bait & Tackle (0.3 mi)

Pumpout30/50 amp (single & 3-phase)Wi-FiShowersLaundryCaptain’s LoungeFish cleaning stationIce8 boat ramps

Marina del Sol (JMK5 Marina)

Kemah, TX

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A quiet, family-friendly marina tucked into a protected harbor on Clear Lake, Marina del Sol (now operating as JMK5 Marina) offers 314 floating-dock slips for sail and power boats, including multihull-friendly berths up to 34-foot beam. Easy access to Galveston Bay and the Kemah Boardwalk entertainment district. Month-to-month and annual leases available. Coordinates: 29.542°N, 95.020°W.

Slips

314 floating slips (10 transient) • Max LOA 55 ft

Max LOA

55 ft

Nearby Hotel

Boardwalk Inn Kemah (1 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine League City (3 mi)

30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryPool with palapasClubhouse (A/C)Picnic & grilling areaLiveaboard allowedDry storage

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Texas

West MarineMultiple locations (Galveston, League City, Corpus Christi, Kemah)

National marine supply chain with multiple Texas Gulf Coast locations. Carries electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, paint, hardware, and apparel. The League City store is convenient for Clear Lake boaters.

Local tackle and marine supply shop in Port Aransas near the Municipal Marina. Stocks bait, tackle, fishing gear, marine hardware, and safety equipment for inshore and offshore anglers.

Full-service marine supply and accessories dealer in the Houston metro area. Stocks electronics, outboard parts, trailer components, and boating accessories with same-day availability for the Galveston Bay region.

Louisiana

LA · 397 mi coastline

Louisiana’s boating culture is shaped by the Mississippi River Delta, the vast marshlands of the Barataria and Terrebonne basins, and the sheltered waters of Lake Pontchartrain. New Orleans is a world-class cruising destination, and the state’s barrier islands — especially Grand Isle — offer premier offshore fishing access. The GICW connects Louisiana’s waterways and serves as a vital link for Great Loop cruisers transiting between Texas and the Florida Panhandle.

Orleans Marina

New Orleans, LA

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A premier lakefront marina on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Orleans Marina offers 353 slips ranging from 30 to 90 feet with full-service amenities. Minutes from downtown New Orleans and the French Quarter, it provides a protected harbor with 8-foot approach depth and 10-foot dockside depth. The vibrant community hosts events throughout the year. Coordinates: 30.027°N, 90.095°W.

Slips

353 slips (15 transient) • Max LOA 110 ft

Max LOA

110 ft

Nearby Hotel

Pontchartrain Hotel (2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Metairie (5 mi)

Fuel dockPumpout30/50/100 ampWi-FiCable TVShowersLaundryShip store24-hour securityCovered slips available

South Shore Harbor Marina

New Orleans, LA

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Located on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain adjacent to Lakefront Airport, South Shore Harbor Marina is one of the largest marinas in Louisiana with 479 slips. The harbor offers 13-foot entrance depth and 12-foot inner depth, accommodating vessels up to 150 feet. Just 15 minutes from the French Quarter and the Central Business District. Coordinates: 30.038°N, 90.024°W.

Slips

453 open slips + 26 covered • Max LOA 150 ft

Max LOA

150 ft

Nearby Hotel

The Roosevelt New Orleans (6 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Metairie (4 mi)

Pumpout30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryGated security with personalized codesKey-accessed parking

Grand Isle Marina

Grand Isle, LA

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Louisiana’s premier offshore fishing base, Grand Isle Marina sits on the state’s only inhabited barrier island with direct Gulf access. The facility combines a marina, hotel, restaurant, bar, and full-service ship store. It is the launching point for some of the best yellowfin tuna, red snapper, and marlin fishing in the northern Gulf. Coordinates: 29.257°N, 89.957°W.

Slips

Wet slips + end ties • Max LOA 65 ft

Max LOA

65 ft

Nearby Hotel

Grand Isle Marina Hotel (on-site) (On-site)

Supply Store

Grand Isle Marina Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dockShip storeBar & restaurantHotel on-siteFishing chartersIceBait & tackle

Hurricane Hole Marina

Grand Isle, LA

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One of the newest resort marinas on the Louisiana Gulf Coast, Hurricane Hole combines a state-of-the-art marina with resort-style accommodations on Grand Isle. The facility features furnished suites, a luxury pool, kid’s splash pad, beach access, and a restaurant with three bars. Just minutes from prime Gulf fishing grounds. Coordinates: 29.260°N, 89.980°W.

Slips

Modern wet slips • Max LOA 60 ft

Max LOA

60 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hurricane Hole Resort (on-site) (On-site)

Supply Store

Grand Isle Marina Ship Store (1 mi)

Fuel dockRestaurant & 3 barsLuxury pool & splash padBeach accessFurnished suitesFishing chartersShip store

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Louisiana

West MarineMetairie (Greater New Orleans)

Full-service marine supply store in the Greater New Orleans metro area. Carries electronics, safety gear, maintenance supplies, and boating accessories. Convenient for Lake Pontchartrain boaters.

Regional marine supply dealer serving the Terrebonne Parish boating community. Stocks marine hardware, outboard parts, fishing tackle, and safety equipment for both recreational and commercial boaters in the bayou country.

Mississippi

MS · 44 mi coastline

Mississippi’s Gulf coastline may be the shortest on the Gulf of Mexico, but the state’s marinas punch well above their weight. The barrier islands — Cat Island, Ship Island, Horn Island, and Petit Bois — create protected waters ideal for day cruising and fishing. Biloxi and Gulfport offer full-service marinas rebuilt to modern standards after Hurricane Katrina, and Bay St. Louis provides a charming small-town harbor experience. The GICW runs along the coast, connecting Mississippi’s marinas to Louisiana and Alabama.

Point Cadet Marina

Biloxi, MS

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The largest marina in Biloxi, Point Cadet Marina is a city-owned facility featuring 246 slips including 29 new floating docks with full-length finger piers and in-slip pumpout stations. Located directly behind the Golden Nugget Casino with easy access to the Mississippi Sound and the barrier islands. The floating docks opened in 2024 as part of ongoing post-Katrina rebuilding. Coordinates: 30.389°N, 88.876°W.

Slips

246 slips (fixed & floating) • Max LOA 135 ft

Max LOA

135 ft

Nearby Hotel

Golden Nugget Biloxi (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

Gorenflo’s Tackle (0.3 mi)

Fuel dockPumpout (in-slip)30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryBait shop24-hour securityFish cleaning station

Gulfport Municipal Marina

Gulfport, MS

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Completely rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina and reopened in 2011, Gulfport Municipal Marina is a city-owned, 319-slip facility with large slips, full-length finger piers, and rock-solid construction. The fuel dock operates 24/7/365 with ValvTect fuels. Five-time Active Captain 1st Choice Marina with 24-hour dock staff. The Mississippi Aquarium is right across the street. Coordinates: 30.359°N, 89.090°W.

Slips

319 slips • Max LOA 140 ft

Max LOA

140 ft

Nearby Hotel

Best Western Plus Gulfport (1 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Gulfport (3 mi)

Fuel dock (ValvTect, 24/7/365)Pumpout (slip-side, 24/7)30/50/100 ampWi-FiShowers (A/C)Laundry24-hour dock staff

Bay St. Louis Municipal Harbor

Bay St. Louis, MS

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Located in the heart of Old Town Bay St. Louis at the intersection of Main Street and Beach Boulevard, this charming municipal harbor offers 201 slips with 8-foot approach depth. The Harbormaster monitors VHF Channel 16. Just steps from excellent restaurants, shops, and the area’s famous southern hospitality. Easy access to Louisiana marshes and barrier islands. Coordinates: 30.303°N, 89.330°W.

Slips

201 slips (13 transient) • Max LOA 125 ft

Max LOA

125 ft

Nearby Hotel

Bay Town Inn B&B (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Bay Bait & Tackle (0.3 mi)

Fuel dock (diesel & non-ethanol gas)Pumpout30/50 ampShowersShip store24-hour security camerasBoat launch rampFishing pier

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Mississippi

Long-established bait, tackle, and marine supply shop near Point Cadet Marina in Biloxi. Full inventory of inshore and offshore fishing gear, live bait, frozen bait, and marine accessories. Also handles fuel dock operations at Point Cadet.

West MarineGulfport

Full-service marine supply store serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Carries electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, paint, hardware, and boating apparel.

Alabama

AL · 53 mi coastline

Alabama’s compact but action-packed Gulf coastline centers on Mobile Bay, one of the largest estuaries in the United States, and the resort communities of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Mobile Bay offers protected cruising with easy access to the GICW, while Orange Beach is a world-class sportfishing destination. The Tenn-Tom Waterway connects Mobile Bay to the Tennessee River, making Alabama a critical junction for Great Loop cruisers and inland river boaters heading to the Gulf.

The Wharf Marina

Orange Beach, AL

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A luxury entertainment-district marina at mile marker 158.8 on the GICW, The Wharf Marina features 200+ premium floating-dock slips ranging from 28 to 70 feet, plus 1,240 linear feet of alongside mooring with quad 100-amp service for mega-yachts over 200 feet. Home to the Orange Beach Billfish Classic and the Blue Marlin Grand Championship. The 10,000-seat Wharf Amphitheater is steps from your slip. Coordinates: 30.281°N, 87.583°W.

Slips

200+ floating slips + 1,240 ft alongside • Max LOA 200+ ft

Max LOA

200+ ft

Nearby Hotel

SpringHill Suites at The Wharf (0.2 mi)

Supply Store

Sam’s Marine Supply (5 mi)

Fuel dock (diesel & ethanol-free gas)Pumpout30/50/100 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryBoaters’ loungeFloating breakwater10,000-seat amphitheaterRestaurants & shopping

Orange Beach Marina

Orange Beach, AL

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A family-owned sportfishing and boating haven run by the Long family for over 30 years, Orange Beach Marina offers 161 covered and open slips minutes from the Gulf via Perdido Pass. Home to the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, which hosts 7 annual tournaments including two of the five largest in the U.S. On-site Saunders Yachtworks provides full marine service. Coordinates: 30.280°N, 87.556°W.

Slips

161 in-water slips • Max LOA 130 ft

Max LOA

130 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hampton Inn Orange Beach (1 mi)

Supply Store

The Dock Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (ValvTect)30/50 ampWi-FiCable TVShowersLaundry24-hour securityTwo on-site restaurantsYacht repair (Saunders Yachtworks)Pet-friendly

Dog River Marina

Mobile, AL

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Mobile’s largest marina and a 2000 Marina of the Year winner, Dog River Marina has provided legendary service for over 60 years at the mouth of the Tenn-Tom Waterway. The 14-acre, full-service complex offers 75 slips with 12-to-17-foot dockside depths, a Travelift with 25-foot beam, and comprehensive repair services. A West Marine store is located on the premises. Just 22 miles from the Gulf. Coordinates: 30.620°N, 88.082°W.

Slips

75 slips (35 sheltered) • Max LOA 150 ft

Max LOA

150 ft

Nearby Hotel

Renaissance Mobile Riverview Hotel (5 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (gas & diesel)30/50/100 ampShip storeCourtesy transportationRental carsGuard service25-ft beam TraveliftFull-service boatyardEngine & generator repair

Fly Creek Marina

Fairhope, AL

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A family-owned marina on the picturesque eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fly Creek Marina is tucked into a well-protected harbor just 1.5 miles north of charming downtown Fairhope. The facility offers wet slips, side-tie slips for larger vessels, and high-and-dry lift slips. The on-site Fly Creek Cafe serves fresh seafood and nightly chef specials on the waterfront. SpeedyDock app launch service available. Coordinates: 30.530°N, 87.895°W.

Slips

50 slips (5 transient) • Max LOA 100 ft

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (7 mi)

Supply Store

Fairhope Marine (2 mi)

Pumpout30/50 ampWi-FiFish cleaning stationLift slipsDry storageMarine service centerOn-site restaurant (Fly Creek Cafe)

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Alabama

West MarineMobile & Daphne

Marine supply stores serving the Mobile Bay region. Full inventory of electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, paint, and hardware. The Mobile location is conveniently located near Dog River Marina.

Regional marine hardware and supply store serving the Alabama Gulf Coast. Stocks boat hardware, fishing tackle, marine electronics, and safety equipment for recreational and commercial boaters.

Florida Panhandle

FL · 1,350 mi coastline

The Florida Panhandle — from Pensacola to Apalachicola — offers some of the most beautiful Gulf Coast cruising, with emerald-green waters, sugar-white beaches, and protected bays. Pensacola Bay is one of the deepest natural harbors on the Gulf, while Destin is renowned as the "World’s Luckiest Fishing Village." The GICW connects the Panhandle’s major harbors, and the region serves as the eastern gateway for Gulf Coast cruisers heading toward Tampa Bay and the Florida Keys. Apalachicola, on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, provides an authentic, uncrowded cruising experience with world-famous oysters.

Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor

Pensacola, FL

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Located in the heart of downtown Pensacola on the waterfront, Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor is a Florida DEP-designated Clean Marina with floating docks in a 15-foot-deep basin. The 88-slip marina accommodates vessels up to 175 feet with 20-foot approach depth and 13-foot dockside depth. Walking distance to historic downtown Pensacola, the Blue Wahoos baseball stadium, and Palafox Street dining. Coordinates: 30.404°N, 87.214°W.

Slips

88 slips (10 transient) + 400 ft bulkhead • Max LOA 175 ft

Max LOA

175 ft

Nearby Hotel

Hilton Pensacola Downtown (0.3 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Pensacola (4 mi)

Fuel dock (non-ethanol gas & diesel)Pumpout30/50/100 amp (single & 3-phase)Wi-FiCable TVShowersLaundryShip storeSecurity gatesHandicap-accessible

HarborWalk Marina

Destin, FL

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Home to the largest fishing fleet in Destin, HarborWalk Marina sits in the center of Destin Harbor with 135 slips and 14-foot dock depth, accommodating vessels up to 250 feet. Part of the vibrant HarborWalk Village entertainment complex featuring Margaritaville, dozens of restaurants, and charter fishing operations. Transient slips available nightly, weekly, and for events. A stop on the Destin Water Taxi circuit. Coordinates: 30.393°N, 86.510°W.

Slips

135 slips • Max LOA 250 ft

Max LOA

250 ft

Nearby Hotel

Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village (0.1 mi)

Supply Store

HarborWalk Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (gas premium & diesel)Pumpout (free)30/50 ampShowersShip storeBait & tackleIceRestaurants & live entertainmentDaily trash collection

Legendary Marina

Destin, FL

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Legendary Marina is one of the largest marina facilities on the Emerald Coast, featuring 180+ wet slips, the nation’s largest dry storage building at 186,000 square feet (780 boats), and a full-service shipyard. Home to Wyland Wall #88 and the world’s largest marine mural. AMI-accredited Clean and Resilient Marina with easy access to both the Gulf and the GICW. Coordinates: 30.382°N, 86.455°W.

Slips

180+ wet slips + 780 dry storage • Max LOA 100 ft

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

Henderson Beach Resort (2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Destin (3 mi)

Fuel dockPumpout30/50 ampWi-FiShowersShip storePool & fitness centerWaterfront restaurant (Lulu’s)Yacht Club amenitiesConciergeDry stack (186,000 sq ft)

St. Andrews Marina

Panama City, FL

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Located in the heart of historic St. Andrews, this city-owned marina on St. Andrew Bay transitioned to new management under Coastal Marina Management in April 2026. The 102-slip facility features a full-service fuel dock with ValvTect ethanol-free fuels, a well-stocked ship store, and charter fishing operations. Walking distance to the charming shops and restaurants of the St. Andrews district. Coordinates: 30.151°N, 85.731°W.

Slips

102 slips • Max LOA 100 ft

Max LOA

100 ft

Nearby Hotel

TownePlace Suites Panama City (2 mi)

Supply Store

West Marine Panama City (5 mi)

Fuel dock (ValvTect ethanol-free)Pumpout30/50 ampWi-FiShowersLaundryShip store (bait, tackle, snacks)Fish cleaning stationNighttime securityCharter fishing fleet

Scipio Creek Marina

Apalachicola, FL

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Apalachicola’s largest marina and boat storage facility, Scipio Creek Marina is a family-owned, full-service center on Florida’s Forgotten Coast with deep-water access to Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf. An authorized Suzuki Repower center with experienced technicians. The on-site Half Shell Dockside restaurant serves fresh-caught seafood. Walking distance to historic Apalachicola’s waterfront shops, galleries, and famous oyster bars. Coordinates: 29.727°N, 84.983°W.

Slips

20 wet slips + 108 dry storage • Max LOA 60 ft

Max LOA

60 ft

Nearby Hotel

Water Street Hotel & Marina (0.5 mi)

Supply Store

Scipio Creek Ship Store (on-site) (On-site)

Fuel dock (gas & diesel)PumpoutShore powerShowersLaundryShip storeRestaurant (Half Shell Dockside)Suzuki dealer (sales & service)Rack & dry storage

Marine Supply & Chandlery — Florida Panhandle

West MarineMultiple locations (Pensacola, Destin, Panama City)

National marine supply chain with multiple Florida Panhandle locations. Full inventory of electronics, safety equipment, maintenance supplies, and boating apparel. The Destin store is particularly convenient for Emerald Coast boaters.

Half Hitch TackleMultiple locations (Destin, Panama City Beach, Navarre)

Regional tackle and marine supply chain across the Florida Panhandle. Comprehensive inventory of fishing tackle, live and frozen bait, marine hardware, safety equipment, and boating accessories. Popular with both inshore and offshore anglers.

On-site marine supply store at Scipio Creek Marina stocking essentials for boaters on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Carries marine hardware, safety equipment, fishing tackle, and boating supplies. Suzuki outboard parts available.

Gulf Coast Cruising Tips

Weather & Hurricane Season

The Gulf Coast enjoys warm temperatures year-round, but weather patterns vary significantly by season. Summer (June–September) brings intense heat, high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and the peak of hurricane season. Winter cold fronts (“northers”) from November through March can produce strong north winds and rough seas for 2–3 days at a time, followed by calm, pleasant conditions. The ideal cruising window is October through May. All Gulf Coast boaters should maintain a written hurricane plan, carry appropriate insurance with named-storm coverage, and monitor NOAA’s National Hurricane Center throughout the season. Many experienced cruisers move their vessels north of 35°N latitude for the summer months.

Navigation

The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GICW) is the primary navigation route, offering approximately 1,100 miles of protected passage from Brownsville, Texas, to Carrabelle, Florida. Nominal controlling depth is 12 feet, but shoaling is common — particularly in western Louisiana and parts of Texas. Barge traffic is heavy in the Houston Ship Channel and near the Mississippi River crossings. Monitor VHF Channel 16 at all times and Channel 13 for commercial traffic. Opening bridges operate on various schedules; carry a current bridge schedule and monitor VHF Channel 09 when approaching opening spans. For open-Gulf crossings (such as the 170-mile passage from Carrabelle to Clearwater), monitor offshore forecasts carefully and plan for overnight passages.

Provisioning

Major provisioning stops are well-spaced along the GICW. New Orleans is arguably the finest provisioning stop on the entire Great Loop, with world-class restaurants, fresh seafood markets, and specialty grocers all accessible from the Lake Pontchartrain marinas. Other excellent provisioning ports include Galveston, Kemah, Gulfport, Mobile, Pensacola, and Destin. Barrier island marinas (Grand Isle, Apalachicola) have limited grocery selection — stock up before arriving. Fuel is generally available every 30–60 nautical miles on the GICW, but plan stops carefully in western Louisiana where gaps can be longer.

Popular Routes

Texas Coast (1–2 weeks): Kemah → Galveston → Freeport → Port Aransas → Corpus Christi → South Padre Island. Island-hopping along the Texas barrier islands with world-class fishing at every stop.

Louisiana Bayou Run (1 week): New Orleans → Houma → Grand Isle → Venice. Deep into Louisiana’s marsh country with unparalleled offshore fishing access at Venice, the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.”

Emerald Coast (1 week): Pensacola → Destin → Panama City → Apalachicola. The Florida Panhandle’s stunning emerald waters, sugar-white beaches, and charming fishing villages.

Great Loop Gulf Transit (2–3 weeks): Carrabelle, FL → Panama City → Destin → Pensacola → Orange Beach → Mobile → up the Tenn-Tom Waterway. The classic Great Loop route connecting Florida to the inland rivers via the GICW and Tenn-Tom.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season to cruise the Gulf Coast?
The prime cruising season on the Gulf Coast runs from October through May, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer as well as the heart of hurricane season (June 1 through November 30). Fall (October–November) and spring (March–May) offer the most comfortable conditions with mild temperatures, moderate winds, and generally calm seas. Winter is also popular, as the Gulf Coast rarely sees freezing temperatures. Many Great Loop cruisers transit the Gulf during October–November southbound and April–May northbound.
How should I plan for hurricane season on the Gulf Coast?
Hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity from August through October. If you keep your boat on the Gulf Coast, have a written hurricane plan that includes haul-out arrangements, inland storage options, or a designated hurricane hole. Many marinas require tenants to sign hurricane agreements. Marine insurance policies for the Gulf may carry named-storm deductibles of 2–5% of hull value. Some cruisers move their boats north of the hurricane zone (typically above 35°N latitude) for the summer months. Monitor NOAA’s National Hurricane Center forecasts religiously from June onward.
What is the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GICW) and how do I navigate it?
The GICW is a protected inland waterway running approximately 1,100 miles from Brownsville, Texas, to Carrabelle, Florida, near the eastern end of the Panhandle. It follows a series of natural bays, rivers, and man-made canals behind the barrier islands. Controlling depth is nominally 12 feet, but shoaling is common, especially in Texas and western Louisiana. Red and green markers follow the “red right returning” rule heading west (from Florida toward Texas). Carry updated charts, monitor USCG Local Notices to Mariners for shoaling reports, and be prepared for barge traffic, particularly in the Houston Ship Channel and Mississippi River areas.
Are there bridge restrictions on the GICW?
Yes. The GICW passes under numerous fixed and opening bridges. Most fixed bridges have a minimum clearance of 65 feet, but some have significantly less. Opening bridges operate on various schedules — some open on demand (24/7), others on fixed schedules (typically on the hour or half-hour), and some restrict openings during rush hours. The most notable restricted bridges are in the Mobile, Alabama area and along the Florida Panhandle. Carry a current bridge schedule and monitor VHF Channel 09 (bridge-to-bridge) when approaching opening spans. Air draft (mast height) above 60 feet may require careful route planning.
How does the Gulf Coast connect to the Great Loop?
The Gulf Coast is a key segment of America’s Great Loop. Most Loopers transit the GICW between Carrabelle, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama, then head north via the Tenn-Tom Waterway to connect with the Tennessee River system. The Tenn-Tom’s controlling depth is 9 feet with lock chambers 110 feet wide by 600 feet long. An alternative route follows the lower Mississippi River from New Orleans to the Ohio River, but this requires careful planning due to strong currents, heavy commercial traffic, and limited recreational facilities. The America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA) provides detailed route planning resources.
What are the offshore fishing opportunities along the Gulf Coast?
The Gulf Coast offers world-class offshore fishing. Key species include yellowfin tuna, blue marlin, red snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and king mackerel. Major fishing centers include Port Aransas and Galveston (Texas), Grand Isle and Venice (Louisiana — arguably the best offshore fishing in North America), Orange Beach (Alabama — home to major billfish tournaments), and Destin (Florida — the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”). Louisiana’s offshore oil platforms create artificial reef ecosystems that concentrate pelagic species. Nearshore, the Gulf’s productive waters support outstanding redfish, speckled trout, and flounder fishing year-round.
What fuel prices and distances should I expect between marinas?
Gulf Coast marina fuel prices typically range from $3.50–$5.50 per gallon for diesel and slightly more for gasoline, with prices varying by location. Grand Isle, Louisiana, and remote barrier island facilities tend to be the most expensive. On the GICW, fuel stops are generally available every 30–60 nautical miles, but distances can be greater in western Louisiana and parts of Texas. Planning fuel stops is essential, especially for sailboats and slower trawlers. The Waterway Guide and ActiveCaptain apps provide current fuel prices and availability along the route.
What are the typical Gulf sea conditions?
The Gulf of Mexico is generally calmer than the Atlantic, with typical summer seas of 1–2 feet and light winds. However, winter cold fronts from November through March can generate 6–10 foot seas with strong north winds (locally called “northers”) that can last 2–3 days. Summer thunderstorms can produce sudden squalls with gusty winds and waterspouts. The Loop Current, a warm ocean current that enters the Gulf through the Yucatan Strait, can influence sea conditions in deeper waters south of the Panhandle. Most recreational cruising on the GICW avoids open Gulf exposure entirely.
Do I need special insurance for keeping a boat in the Gulf hurricane zone?
Yes. Most marine insurance companies consider the Gulf Coast a hurricane zone and impose specific requirements. Policies typically include named-storm deductibles (2–5% of hull value, versus 1% for regular claims), require a written hurricane plan, and may mandate haul-out or relocation above a specified latitude during hurricane season. Some insurers restrict coverage south of 31°N from June 1 to November 30. Premiums for Gulf-based boats are generally 15–30% higher than for boats based in non-hurricane zones. Shop multiple marine insurers and read named-storm provisions carefully.
What are the best provisioning stops along the Gulf Coast?
Major provisioning hubs include Galveston and Kemah (Texas), New Orleans (Louisiana — exceptional food shopping and restaurants), Gulfport and Biloxi (Mississippi), Mobile and Orange Beach (Alabama), and Pensacola and Destin (Florida). New Orleans stands out as arguably the best provisioning stop on the entire Great Loop, with world-class restaurants, fresh seafood markets, and specialty grocery stores within reach of the lakefront marinas. Most Gulf Coast marinas are near grocery stores, but barrier island locations like Grand Isle and Apalachicola have limited selection — stock up before arriving.

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