You don’t always get what you pay for! With such great reviews we decided to use Hinckley to paint our boat. Expensive, but good, right? WRONG. We got a bid to have our 49 Hylas to have our yacht painted in Awlgrip in January 2016. We have used Awlgrip paint before and found it to be durable, easy to clean and long lasting. A few weeks after we got the bid to paint the topsides in Awlgrip by Brian the manager, we were handed off to Chuck to coordinate the work we needed done. Then came the hard sell (emails and phone calls) from Chuck to use Imron paint. Imron paint is cheaper than Awlgrip and in hindsight we felt that was the reason for the big push to use Imron. Although we loved Awlgrip we decided the “professionals” knew better and so we went with their product Imron. We felt that on every step Hinkley pushed us to do more and more work we felt unnecessary. It always started with “at Hinckley we do it this way because it’s the best”. They faired the transom and built it up with a compound to fix a few dings. We were not in Florida when the work was done which was Big mistake. When we arrived in late January the first issues started. First issue was we had covered our boat to protect the deck from the harsh Florida weather .We always do this when leaving our boat in storage. Hinckley removed it when they stepped the mast right after we left and never replaced as they deemed it unnecessary. We reminded them to put it back on after the mast was stepped and were assured they would do so. When we returned the deck needed to be waxed and the sun had damaged fabrics in the boat and other damage from being uncovered and unattended. Next we track down the edges! had new signs put on the boat. When I showed Chuck that they were peeling, he suggested a little clear nail polish on the edges to keep them from peeling off! I was starting to regret using Hinckley. Most worrisome was the paint job. The Imron just wasn’t the right type of paint for a sailboat that actually gets used. This became apparent a few months later. We sailed from Hinckley directly to the Bahamas and Cuba for 4 months. The boat was only in a marina once where it was rinsed down and washed. It was there we noticed that salt had etched the paint. When we returned to Hinckley five months after the initial painting we had to haul the boat and they had to use an acid to remove the salt. Even the yard and paint distributor said they had never seen anything like it. Never in 25,000 miles of sailing with Awlgrip had we ever used anything but Awlgrip wash to clean our boat of salt residue. It always looked great. Next issue was discovered by the guys who polished the boa. He t noticed small cracks all over the transom. Brian tried to explain it as fiberglass from under the bonding they used was suddenly erupting through the paint. Riduculous? Of course. But our choice was to stay in Florida and haggle with Hinckley or just consider this a VERY EXPENSIVE lesson. We realized we would never be satisfied and left. We are currently in Europe and have now noticed that everything scratches this paint. Mooring lines that rub remove the paint down to the primer. Bumpers rubbing wear off the paint, a small bump on a plastic dock scratches. Even my finger nail can scratch through the paint! Two professional painters here in Europe laughed at their explanation on why the transom had cracks. Both explained it was too much compound used and the compound was cracking underneath. This of course makes more sense. I will say that Hinckley did reimburse me the costs of the signs. Lessons learned .Never would I recommend Imron paint and never would I recommend Hinckley Boat yard
Have stayed in Thunderbolt several times this Spring. Once at Morningstar Bahia Bleu and twice at Hinckley Yacht Services. Stayed on the facing docks at both marinas. Plenty of water and easy approach. Bahia Bleu is a “real” marina and has some nice facilities, although the bathrooms/laundry are all on the 2nd deck of the building. Hinckley is a boatyard (wonderful boatyard by the way) so facilities are a little more spartan, i.e., no laundry. We’ve gone to Tubby’s Tank House restaurant everytime. Good food and a lively spot. Very short walk from Bahia Bleu and about half mile from Hinckley Tom Callan o/b Great Escape 53 DeFever POC
If you want to take a cab to Savannah, we recommend staying in Thunderbolt (we use Hinckley for price even though it is not as nice as other marinas there – it is a boat yard), but the cab ride to town is shorter, therefore cheaper. Also, docking at HInckley is a breezeThe bus from Isle of Hope to downtown is ok, but you have to make a transfer and it therefore takes some time. John Winter
By telephone we contacted 7 reputable boat yards including 2 in Florida where we had hauled in prevous years for quotations. For a fair comparison we reduced each quote to a $ per foot cost. The quotation from Hinkley Yacht Services in Thunderbolt GA came right in the middle of our tabulation. After several discussions with Gebel Seese , Hinkley Service Manager, {Contact: {912} 629 2400 } it became apparent to us that Hinkley offerred the best possible value consistent with top quality materials and skilled labor. We found the Sea Hawk web site informative and following Gebel Seese advise we specified Sea Hawk, Tropikote, based on proven longevity and effectiveness of anti fouling properties. Further, via Sea Hawks appointed applicators a written guarrantee is issued which appealed to Jean and I. Haul out day saw LILY MARIA in the slings for a full 8 hours while she was scraped,pressure washed and lightly sanded. Of special note,the running gear and scoops were restored to bare metal by the addition of a small amount of silicone sand added to the pressure wash water.This coupled with the extensive work undertaken the prevous year at the Chesapeake Marine Railway has restored the bottom of LILY MARIA to a clean fair surface. As one interested bystander said “Your 35 year old boat now has the bottom of a 4 year old”. We especially appreciated the care and hard work in prepping the bottom on which the finished job would depend. Metal primed, 2 coats of Tropikote applied with 3 on the waterline and LILY MARIA was ready to be launched within 5 working days. Durring the haul out we lived aboard with minimal inconveience. Hinkley provides good clean shoreside facilities adjascent to the work area. The work areas are tidy, well organized and the work scheduled so the job progresses without interruption. The labor force,many of whom worked at the old Palmer Johnson yard, are experienced, skilled craftsmen and proud to carry on the the quality work that Hinkley is renowned for. This full service yard maintains many boats that are not Hinkley built and despite there insistance on customer service and quality there priceing is most competitive.Hinkley is not a do it your self yard. We are extremly satisfied with our Hinkley experience which was beyond our expectations. The job was completed on time, within budget and to a high standard. On the run south we have noted at least a 1.25 increse in speed at cruising RPM plus resultant fuel savings. Jean sums it up best of all by saying “the only problem I see with Hinkley is that we now have no choice but to return for all future haul outs!! Colin Day Jean Henderson
Personally we had very good results from the Hinckley yard that is just south of Savannah. Prices were very reasonable, they work fast and they know what they are doing. David
I can highly and strongly recommend Hinckley Yacht Services, about a mile north of Thunderbolt (suburb of Savannah, GA). They are a full service yard with some of the best marine service staff I have ever seen. They also have a storage yard and 35 ton lift. Their work is not cheap, but reasonable for the results. In spite of what is written in some guidebooks, they do offer transient berthing, but they aren’t very close to shopping. Neither is Thunderbolt. There is a bus line about 3/4 mile away. Check them out at http://www.hinckleyyachts.com Bill
Subject: Hinckley Yacht Services, Cruising News: We just had a long list of repairs and improvements done to our vessel, Docker’s Inn, at Hinckley Yacht Services in Thunderbolt, GA. All the work that we had done was first rate, including the rebuilding of our aft deck wet bar/storage area, which was a major project that our “normal” mechanic at Hilton Head abandoned. Mike Pranschke, the service operations manager, was very accommodating and professional and had good ideas for fixing that which needed repair. In the end, we had a list of over 30 items that needed work and which we could not get done on Hilton Head. The folks at Hinckley can do just about anything, including major refits to very large vessels. The only critique I would have is that they seem to be a bit overbooked, which leads to delays in completing the work on time. All in all, it was a very satisfying experience, and I would return. Ken & Sharon Vogel M/V Docker’s Inn
After a recent electrical fire on board Life’s2Short I wanted to take a moment to thank the crew @ Hinckley Yacht Works in Savannah (Thunderbolt) GA. It’s so refreshing not to hear “Hmmmm, never seen this before?” from a mechanic when they step on board. The guys (Tim & Michele) who helped me rewire a number of items that got fried were fast, very knowlegeable & professional! I would highly recommend Hinckley to those of you who might need assistance as you travel the ICW! I would also suggest to those of you who have a davit motor to check and make sure that it has some type of fuse or breaker in-line, ours did not. What happened was that over years of use the wire on the control box of the davit motor wore through, shorted itself out on the crane and melted the wire and every other wire that was touching it as it passed along 30′ of chase. It’s quite scary when you’re anchored out enjoying the evening on the sundeck and all of a sudden your smoke alarm goes off. You then open the salon door and can’t see 3′ in front of you because of all the smoke rolling through your home! However no one was hurt (physically) and we were able to head back south to Hinckley under our own power. Just thinking about this has made me thirsty, anybody for a Bloody Mary? Brenda & Todd Lanning M/V Life’s2Short
I too heartily agree with Bill and his recommendation for Hinckley Yacht Services. We were at Hinckley off & on this past summer. We left Life’s2Short there for 5 weeks when we went back to MO to visit friends & family. We also had to return back to Hinckley after heading north when we had an elcectrical fire on board just south of Hilton Head. The guys in the yard are outstanding and really know their business!! I never met Dustin when I was there but you can call Mike Pranschke @ 912-629-2400, Mike is the Service Operations Manager. We also found that Hinckley had the best in-the-water transient rate of anyone in the Savannah area. Note that the tides are between 8 & 10 foot in that area, plan your approach at slack tide if at all possible, high slack tide if they are going to put you on the inside of the face dock!! Hinckley is not a true marina when it comes to all the bells and whistles a transient might need but they have clean showers and a great crew to support your mechanical needs!! Tell them Life’s2Short sent you. Brenda & Todd Lanning M/V Life’s2Short
Have stayed in Thunderbolt several times this Spring. Once at Bahia Bleu and twice at Hinckley Yacht Services. Stayed on the facing docks at both marinas. Plenty of water and easy approach. Bahia Bleu is a “real” marina and has some nice facilites, although the bathrooms/laundry are all on the 2nd deck of the building. Hinckley is a boatyard (wonderful boatyard by the way) so facilities are a little more spartan, i.e., no laundry. We’ve gone to Tubby’s Tank House restaurant everytime. Good food and a lively spot. Very short walk from Bahia Bleu and about half mile from Hinckley Tom Callan o/b Great Escape 53 DeFever POC
Stayed here 3 weeks in October, 2012. Good Diesel and gas available, clean, but remote, showers. I was able to ride my bike to stores and restaurants in the area. WIFI was good, AT&T cell phone was good. Downtown Savannah is about 5-7 miles, one way.
6-19-17 Stopped here and signed up for 4 days. Josh did an excellent job of getting our lines on the dock and secured in high winds and current. He also did a super job describing the facilities and the area. Crispy Crème’s donuts were on the deck of boat at 0700. This yard has major repair facilities and tradesmen on staff. Can’t say enough good about stopping here. They only have daily rates but not a problem. Chief Engr Bob onboard ALLEZ!
We cannot say enough about this marina! Easy in, easy out. FREE laundry! Awesome restaurant (Tuby’s) is just a short walk away. Immaculate shower/bathrooms. A true bargain! Will be back next summer, and every fall here out!
Had a stuffing box failure on the way north from Florida and was lucky enough to make it to Thunderbolt. Their yard treated me as if I was I was their only customer. Stayed at the marina after repairs were done and more than enjoyed the free donuts in the morning. Highly recommended Wayne Johnson svPaws
Thunderbolt Marina is only in walking distance to Tubby’s Tank House. However, they may still have donuts in the morning for transients. Out at Thunderbolt cabs would be my preference to get into town. They may have city bus service out there. I don’t know that they have a courtesy car. Don on “Monstruck”
There are several Marinas in Thunderbolt; we use Thunderbolt Marina for easy access, good facilities and daily Crispy Creme donuts delivered to the boat in the morning by 07h00. Both Isle of Hope and Thunderbolt Marina are good places to stop longer for a visit to the City of Savannah. Jim Healy
I spent 2 weeks at this marina [Thunderbolt Marine] and found it very pleasant and the personnel more than helpful. We dined at Tubby’s 7 times in a 2 week period. They have a great $5.00 lunch, but you need to get there before the 12 noon crowd. On Thursday night, there is an oyster roast for about 1hour outside the bar area and is supposed to be free, but donations are accepted. Happy hour beer is priced right all day long in the bar. Good spot. Philip W. Mullins (Phil)
We spent a night at Thunderbolt Marine on our way south earlier this year and plan to spend a couple of days there on our way north this Spring. The floating docks are easy to tie to and facilities are first-rate. You can hop a bus a couple of blocks away that will take you to Savannah. We had a very enjoyable lunch at Tubby’s, which is a very fun place with great outdoor seating. Captain Mary Intermezzo
Stayed at Thunderbolt Marina in early January. Stopped there with a radar problem. The yacht yard arranged for an electronics technician to be available to address our problem upon arrival. The technician was able to diagnose the problem but did not have parts to fix the problem that evening. The marina was well maintained and clean, had extremely helpful staff, and provided free donuts and a newspaper in the morning in time for our early departure. Ate a late lunch at Tubbies – a huge very good fish sandwich that was very good but bigger than both our appetites. Service was very slow. Howard Rockness Sequel Sabre 47
Were at Thunderbolt last year. Excellent service. Great bathrooms. Close to marine electronics store. Security guard on car park. Easy walk to bus but check that the office has given you the latest timetable. Buses stop around 6.30. Pam and Warrick Morning Star
We stopped here for fuel ($4.37 for diesel) and a night on the dock ($1.75/foot) on April 9th, 2012.
The current rages here and as I motored against the current alongside the gas dock for a port-side tie-up, I tossed a springline to the dockhand. Since my propwalk swings my stern to port and the 23 ponies laboring ahead down in the bilge couldn’t overcome the rush of water, I expertly backed my boat stern-in against the gas dock. Don’t use a springline to land your boat anywhere in Georgia.
After fueling, the dockhand backed us down the pier and we tied alongside the end of the long gas dock for the night. Other boats were tied alongside the inside of the gas dock.
We ate at Tubby’s, a nearby restaurant which has free appetizers if you order a beer before 5:00.
There is a shrimpdock nearby which sports a sign that reads “Open 10:00”. We didn’t try it but were tempted.
The marina has clean restrooms and laundry facilities.
We heard the sound of “bacon frying” all night which we have been told is the sound of shrimp flicking their tails against your hull to knock the grass from the bottom to score a tasty veggie snack.
Try Thunderbolt Marine on the Wilmington River. Coming North go in via Wassaw Sound, but watch the buoys carefully. Huge facility. Used to be the refit facility for Palmer Johnson. If they can’t fix it, I’d be surprised. We had a turbo replaced there a few years ago. Watch out for the flying teeth, nasty little black fly thang’s that come out just before sundown. Check out Tubby’s Tank House Resturant a short walk from the marina. T
We purchased a classic motorsailor in Southern Georgia and had intended to motor her north. Unfortunately mechanical problems cut that plan short. The folks at Thunderbolt Marine were great. Ernie coordinated stepping the masts, putting us in contact with a trucker and hauled the boat. Less than 30 hours after making the decision to truck the boat we were on our way. As a bonus the bill was significantly less that the estimate due to things going smoothly. I can’t say enough about the way we were treated. Anthony at the marina was great, the complementary morning paper and Krispy Kreme donuts made a nice start to the day.
We have stopped here on a couple of occasions. In May 2008 we stopped and while there celebrated our anniversary at Tubby’s Tank House. A great experience. Because of predicted nasty weather, we stopped again for three days in 2009 (11/30-12/2/09). The facilites again were very good as were the Krispy Kreme donuts. We have not needed to us their yard services, but it’s a great stopover.
We have stopped at Thunderbolt Marina three different times and always found it a great stop with a wonderful dock master and great food nearby. Of course we love the Krsipy Kreme. Bob & Fran Fumanti
Here 4/1-3/2010. Nice docks and very helpful personnel. A taxi ride to Savannah proper is about $18. We had lunch at B Matthews and dinner at The Pink House. The Pink House was pricey but so was everywhere else in the down town area. Both had excellent food. Would recommend a visit to this lovely city.SV Aquarius
Stayed at Thunderbolt Marina at the beginning of July this year. Chose this marina because I had heard that it was a good place to get repairs done and we needed some work on our A/C unit. First the good news: Friendly and helpful dock hands. Easy on and off the ICW and a good place to fuel up. One of the employees has a great business delivering fresh produce and shrimp to your boat – just get an order form in the office and call her the day before. Your food will be delivered the next morning. Everything tasted great, especially the shrimp. Took a short walk to Tubby’s Tank for lunch. This will be a “must do” the next time we pass through. The not so good news: I felt as if the management was a lot more efficient at computing billable hours than actually fixing our mechanical problems. After staying over an extra day just to resolve our problem, we couldn’t even get a call back from our repairman. We did get the bill right on time, however. Shel Rabin (mv Evening Star)
We are currently in Thunderbolt Marina, Savannah, GA and we just wanted to say that it is a wonderful place. We have very few complaints about the marinas we visited but this on is so very acommodating in every way. We have had some repairs done and they have gone beyond expectation to be sure we were satisfied. It is a good location as well. We are pleased. Fair weather to all: Tex and Phyliss
We use Thunderbolt Marine. Their primary business is mega yacht type boats, but they do plenty of smaller boats too, including sailboats of every size and description. Their hourly rates are good, but a few notes: 1) they are very thorough, and don’t do things half baked, so those cheap hours mount quickly 2) they charge for everything: dockage, “yard fee” etc. On the other hand 3) they will give you a very thorough work order/estimate in advance, which tends to estimate on the high side so that “surprises” are minimized unless something is discovered once they open ‘er up. 4) They stand behind their work with the highest degree of integrity. Our most recent experience with them was pretty amazing in this day and age. The project manager for boats under 100’ is a younger guy named Phillip Howe. He was a QC guy (I think) with Mainship prior to Thunderbolt, so is familiar with trawler and simpler craft. He will not BS you, and will steer you away from unnecessary or ill advised repairs and projects. There is a “captain’s lounge” at the yard, and the marina across the basin, which is part of TMI, has very nice shower and laundry facilities. George
Spent the past week in the yard at Thunderbolt Marine in Thunderbolt, GA. Can’t begin to explain how nice it was (if being stuck for repair is nice) Great facility, Great people and Really good service. They fixed everything they promised to do and provided solutions for what would take longer than our stay allowed. Small marina attatched for transients. Wonderful place to spend a few days. Quiet safe and secure, Tranquil setting, but easy access to downtown Savannah without staying on the waterfront. Not an advertising plug, just a satisfied client. Mike Frazier Tortuga
$2.10 per foot, per night. Three night or more stay is $1.90/foot per night. Weekly face dock rate is $12.60/foot and our weekly inside rate is $10/foot.
Type of dockage:
floating concrete decked slips and face docks
Live Aboards Allowed:
yes
Live Aboard Notes:
For vessels over 35ft with a working head and shower.$100.00 liveaboard fee per month.
Total number of slips/berths:
4,000 feet
Dockside Power Connections:
30/50/100 amp power hookups available
30/50/100 Amp Notes:
$10.00/per night for 30 amp hookup, $15.00/per night for 50 amp hookup, $50.00/per night for 100 amp hookup
Dock. Fresh Water Connections:
Available.
Showers:
Available. Climate Controlled
Laundromat:
Available.
Restaurant:
transportation provided (2 loaner cars available)
Restaurant Recommendations:
Driftaway Cafe (912-303-0999), Pearls Saltwater Grill (912-961-0522) – both 1 mile away; use marina courtesy cars
Provisioning Possibilities:
WalMart 1.5 miles away and West Marine 2 miles away - use marina courtesy cars
LPG (Propane) Availability:
Available. Use marina loaner car for LPG tank exchange at Walmart or tank refill at Hester & Zipper 1 1/2 mile away
Waste pump-out:
Available.
Wi-Fi Internet Access:
Free WiFi Available
Fuel Availability:
Gas & Diesel Available
Fuel Notes:
ethanol free
Fuel Prices (All Taxes Included)
Reporting Date:
April 15, 2024
Fuel Notes:
ethanol free
Gasoline Price:
$4.99 (All Taxes Included)
Diesel Price:
$4.55 (All Taxes Included)
Any Quantity Discount:
Available. 5 cents off for 100 gallons, 25 cents off for 200 or more of diesel
Share:
Reviews from Cruisers (24)
Charlie Ridley- May 18, 2016 - 5:15 pm
5-3-16 Now at Isle of Hope Marina at MM590. Went to fuel dock first– $2.09/gal. Dock (34′) and 30 amp for $75.00. great place to walk around old homes, etc. cable not work but pulled several chanells off antennae. Put us on very northern end and very weak wifi. OK for email but not much else. Loaner car and bicycles available and a reasonable ships store. Strong Verizon. Really a great place to stop. Jackie and Charlie on Traveler.
Have been at ISLE of hope now for about 2 1/2 years the staff is and has been great. The showers are always kept clean (you can always come in behind some one who leaves it messed up but the staff jump on it and make sure it’s cleaned. Restraints are close and downtown is full of things to do. Thanks and will probably keep coming back as we start our island hopping. Nick on the Cavalier
Loved this marina! Our first visit here, but will not be our last. Very friendly and helpful – loved the little town and Driftaway Cafe. Be careful to check operating hours, however. They were closed upon our arrival – we had made reservations on line and I had my home phone on contact so they were not able to let me know. Only tiny thing to say could use improvement is washer/dryer needs updating and the free roaming of a dog (boxer) who belongs to a marina resident.
We have moved our boat there from Chattanooga because of the location and staff! Marina is set in a beautiful neighborhood and you feel like you are walking out of your house to your boat! Quiet area and everyone is so friendly. Drift away is about a mile away but there are 5 other restaurants and a nice Piggly Wiggly grocery. Just 1/2 of a mile away we always get greeted by Dolphins. Tim Gaffney
We had a great experience there. Lovely area to walk around. They provided a courtesy car to get some shopping done. Staff was very nice. Patricia Sienstra
We stayed at Isle of Hope marina for 3 weeks in November/December 2012 while my husband was treated for an infection from a cut on his hand. He was in the hospital for 6 days. The marina staff were very supportive, friendly and helpful. I would have liked it much better if the bathrooms were cleaner. I only used them once and showered on the boat after that! Dinner at the Driftaway Cafe in nearby Sandfly was delicious. We went back twice for the Tybee tuna! Harriet Hardy sv Moondance
Spent the night of 4/17/13 at Isle of Hope. It was our second time here. Has many positive attributes-Great dock hands, long face-dock, OK facilities, courtesy cars. You can use cars till after 5 pm. Have mixed feelings due to my problems using their fuel pump, too much air in fuel for my slow speed pumping (can’t slow the fast speed pump). Web advertisement says bring a buddy boat and get a discount. The buddy boat signed up first and after discussion were given the listed discount. When I signed up, no way was I going to get a discount. May stop again but other marinas to try first. s/v/Skye
Spent one night at Isle of Hope in early April. Two courtesy cars. Allowed to retain keys for one overnight to transport a sick pet to a veterinary clinic the next morning. Office stayed open late for our arrival. Gave good information on restaurants and allowed use of courtesy car in evening for transportation to restaurants. Said one of the restaurants provided return transportation but did not pick up. Approximately 1 mile walk to restaurants. Marina in excellent condition. Highly competent, friendly, and helpful staff. Howard Rockness Sequel
We were treated so well by everybody from John Henson or Hanson, the manager at West Marine, who echoed your thoughts on Marinas. To Chris and Rick at Isle of Hope. To the folks at Fish Tales, the restaurant at Ft. Mcallister. We visited both of the Marinas 3 times and fell for Isle of Hope. I can see myself there for a few years, with the town near by and the other things that offers us. Restaurants and hotels if family visit. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts. Now, we just have to make the arrangements to truck the boat there early next year. Tim
Our planned two day stay turned into two weeks, then a month, then two months, and now we’re staying here as liveaboards. Georgia has abandoned the 30 day annual limit on living aboard and now allows full time liveaboards in certified marinas. Isle of Hope was the first certified and now there are a handful of us liveaboards here.
As everyone else says, the staff are great and the facilities top shelf.
DEFINITELY Isle of Hope Marina! We spent one night there on our journey from Fort Myers to Maine. (Still enroute….stranded in Newport RI) . They are very accommodating and friendly. Got an email “Thank You” after we left. Jane and John Linscott The Maine Event
We also recommend Isle of Hope. We spent a month at Isle of Hope last June/July. The people are very knowledgeable and friendly. Laundry on site. Two loaner cars. Restaurants can be reached easily with the loaner cars or by bike. Walmart can also be reached with the loaner cars. John & Gloria Weber Bombay Lady III
I also think that Isle of Hope is definitely the place to stay to see Savannah. The downtown Savannah dock is available, but it is right in the middle of the tourist section; for my money the down side of that outweighs the upside. Jack Robnson
Captain Dave Kuchenbecker- July 13, 2010 - 6:36 pm
Isle of Hope Marine is truly a gem along the waterway. You are not a guest there, you are treated like a local. I can’t imagine what the staff could do to be more accomadating. Swimming at the community pool, showers, laundry, and courtesy car. There is a nice Pavilion at the top of the dock and if your lucky there will be something going on. We were lucky enough to be there for the benefit for the community pool. Live music, food and dancing all while a huge thunderstorm raged outside the confines of the pavilion, We will be stopping here again.
We stayed at Isle of Hope Marina. It is a first class marina and the bus to Savannah is just two blocks away. On a Sunday, however, the bus only returns as far as Walmart and it is necessary to take a taxi for the last two miles. Alan Lloyd Author, Great Loop Navigation Notes http://www.NavigationNotes.com
My wife and I are currently at the Isla of Hope Marina (11/26/09.) It is quiet, spotlessly clean and the staff is excellent. They have two courtesy cars (two hour limit) and there is a Walmart Super Center, a Sam’s Club and all sorts of other shopping within 4 miles of the marina. We went into Savannah yesterday on the local busline. A short walk to the bus stop and 50 minutes later, we were walking along the Savannah Waterfront. If you stay in Savannah after 3:45 pm, it’s a $22.00 cab ride from the waterfront to the marina parking lot. We highly recommend Isle of Hope Marina. Gordon Jump
I can only agree with all the good comments you have read above. they were so generous with their loaner cars, that shopping, eating out, and touring Savannah were all so easy, and the marina itself was as nice as could be. Just wish the pool was on site.
This morning we are starting the great loop from the Isle of Hope Marina, south of Savannah. We have been here for a few days, preparing for the trip and sightseeing. We LOVE the Savannah area. I would happily stay here a month, there is so much to see. We highly recommend the Isle of Hope Marina. The people are super. The town, Isle of Hope, is way too adorable for words with many historic homes in a peaceful, small village. The marina is right on the ICW and you might think there would be uncomforable wake from passing boats. No. During the few days we have been here, our boat has not budged from a passing boat. On one side of the boat is the village and on the other side is a most scenic and peaceful view of an island. I love it. There are dolphins and several pair of hooded mergansers swimming next to the boat The wireless internet is fast and reliable….included too. The area has plenty of good resturants. We especially enjoyed Pearls. It is several miles from the Marina, but they have a Lexus you can borrow. Robert and Glee Finnegan Grand Fromage 65′ McKinna
Not stayed at IOH, but understand they provide complimentary transportation, cable TV, and access to the community pool Name Withheld By Request
Great marina, very helpful staff. Fuel dock has both diesel and gas. No restaurants nearby, but there is loaner car available. Jim
Isle of Hope was excellent stopover for us Northbound. Good service, clean restroom and shower, pricey fuel ($5.50 on June 7), a couple of loaners and good restaurants near by. Will visit them again when Southbound. David Jenkins GB 46-232 At Last
Isle of Hope Marina north bound: Lay over three stormy days. WiFi was not reaching my vessel at slip. They let me use one of their computers right in their business office. Also let us use their car to go to dinner in town. Very nice people Les Rothman, AUTUMN SAGA
We spent two nights there. Very accommodating dock master, docks in good condition, with many recent repairs…new planks, etc. We ate aboard but the restaurant at the dock was busy both nights, a Wednesday and Thursday. Weather was cloudy with occasional rain and cool Easy bike ride to beaches which are wonderful. Was not offered the courtesy car…didn’t ask either. Malcolm Farrel
Subject: Isle of Hope Cruising News: If there is a better group of people on the ICW I don’t know where they are. The people at this marina will go out of their way to make sure your stay is a pleasant experience. The island itself is worth the layover. Watch the current and the wind, at times it can be tricky. Bob Madean Prime Times 42 Grand Banks
Yes, we stayed at Isle of Hope Marina in mid-March 2008 and had a positive experience. The facilities were fine, we were able to use their courtesy car, and ate at local pizza shop (quite good actually). Jim & Rose aboard Radiant
I’d look into Isle of Hope Marina, on the ICW, on the SE side of Savannah. It’s a great place, reasonable rates, easy drive into Savannah, friendly staff, and secure. Bob McLeran and Judy Young
This is an oasis, hidden from almost any perspective. Once you slip in it’s a place you want to stay. Mike was the Dock master and he greeted me with open arms and they are the nicest people you will ever meet. I docked talked to Mike a second and grabbed the golf cart and went to the Village to eat. No fuss no worries just enjoy the many vistas that are around every corner. The facilities are excellently maintained and the dock is clean and free of “things”. No live a boards makes a difference to the transients that frequent here. I am on my way to Houston TX and will be comparing all to follow to this Village. And for the faint at heart they will drive out, drag you off a spoil area, and when you get in treat you like a Captain. Don’t ask how I know.
Recently had the opportunity to visit Delegal Creek Marina at Mile Marker 601 a few miles south of Isla of Hope. This is the best and friendliest marina I have stayed at for a while. Certainly it’s probably a good idea to enter the creek a couple of hours before or after low tide – which gives you an easy channel around 8ft or more. The marina offers a lower transient rate than average while at the same time giving first class facilities well sheltered from inclement weather. Super clean restrooms and showers, laundry, floating slips, clubhouse, and above all a courtesy golf cart giving you a delightful run through the woods of Skidaway Island to the Publix grocery store, Bar & Grill restaurant and other stores at the Village. If you have a motorised dinghy – great fun also visiting nearby tropical island beaches. I give it a Five Star rating. Call Dockmaster Billy in advance for a reservation at (912) 224 3885. Cap’n Parky
When we were there July 1, I created a JPG graphic to show the route in. I sent it to the dockmaster so they could us it on their web site to help boaters feel more comfortable about the entrance. Well since reading your post, I looked on their web site and now they have a fancy graphic of GOOGLE MAPS view showing the approach. It’s a PDF file that can be seen if you click on either of the following hyperlinks: Delegal Creek Approach Chart http://www.landingsmarinas.com/downloads/files/Delegal_Chart.pdf We also found this marina to be very CUSTOMER SERVICE focused. We arrived just minutes before a major thunderstorm. Needed to get milk and bread but didn’t want to take the golf cart into town because of the imminent storm. The girl working the dock actually knocked on our boat and offered to go to the store for us ! We were so grateful ! Ralph Yost
Sanctuary and crew spent a couple of days at Delegal Creek Marina from 11/6 – 11/9/2013. The entrance to Delegal Creek from the Vernon River/Ossabaw Sound IS NOT correctly drawn on the chart (US5GA24M) of the area; the land features have changed since the chart was produced. Cruisers can download a “local knowledge” satellite view chart from the marina website, or contact Billy, the dockmaster at Delegal Marina, for local knowledge. The region has a 6′ – 7′ tidal range, larger during celestial periods. Sanctuary and crew entered Delegal Creek about 1 hr after celestial low tide (16h00, 11/6/2013), which wound up being equivalent to MLLW on our tide almanac. There is only one short stretch of shallow water on the entire route from the Vernon River to the marina. For about 20 – 30 yds immediately upstream of G’3′ and R’4′, we saw as little as 4.9 ft. at MLLW. Except for that stretch, water depths in Delegal Creek are not a concern. Minimum depths in marina slips are 6′ all the way against the inner wall. Depths at the fuel dock and face docks exceed 20 ft. The facility is very well protected, has floating docks, wi-fi, restrooms, showers and laundry. Broadband WLAN coverage is 4 bars and fast. Facilities are “newish,” well maintained and clean. Marina guests can get a “pass” from the dockmaster that allows access to all of the member-only clubs, including the several golf courses, in the Landings community. There is a small commercial center that has banks, ATMs, a food market, shoppes and restaurants. Golf carts are available for touring the Landings communities and Skidaway Island. Billy makes every effort to help visitors. This is an excellent stop. Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary, Monk 36
Have you, like me, bypassed Delegal Creek on Skidaway Island, AICW 601, because you couldn’t figure out how to enter the creek and get to the marina. Don’t fret, call the dock master or look on their website. The marina is first class, the staff very helpful, a courtesy golf cart will take you to get provisions and to restaurants as well as a tour of the island. It is worth the extra effort to call ahead and even ask for a “follow me” boat to come out and lead you into the creek. We did and they were wonderful. You won’t regret this stop. Stay safe, Tom
If you can enter and leave at half tide or more you would enjoy Delegal Creek Marina just North of Hell’s Gate. This is about two hours South of Thunderbolt as there are no-wake zones in the area AND they are looking for speeders ($300). Bruce Elder Inevitable Too
Call ahead to Delegal Creek for a really nice stay. They do have room for a boat like yours, but you must ride the tide. The island is really neat. They have a free golf cart that you can take to the village. Really nice. John Winter
Across the Ogeechee R. as you come through Hell Gate, northbound, is Delegal Creek with Delegal Marina (pronounced: deli-gal). There is a sandbar at the entrance of Delegal Creek, and Delegal Marina will send a boat out to meet you and guide you in. Jim Healy
We echo Chuck’s comments. The only thing to add is that the current can be tough for docking, especially a single screw. With that said, it is a definite stop and try to time for slack tide, especially when leaving. Dock master is excellent for giving advice on how to dock. John Winter
I’ll second the vote for Delegal Creek Marina, at MM 600 on Skidaway Island. Yes, it can be a little tricky getting in there the first time, their channel markers don’t line up with what’s on your chart plotter. Go to http://www.landings.org/delegal-creek-marina-3284 and then click on Delegal Creek Map under Marinas tab for directions on getting in. If you’re coming in with less than + 3′ of water on the tide table, call the marina office for instructions, and if your still a little concerned as to where the deepest water is they will come out and guide you in. Then if you want a special treat for dinner, call Renee at 912-598-7929 and order Chicken Pot Pies delivered to your boat. Call her a few hours before you get there and she will deliver them hot, if you wait to call her until you get in late in the afternoon, they will be frozen. Of course, a delightful dinner at one of the club houses is always a special treat as well. An inexpensive stop you will enjoy, $.94 per foot with Boat US discount. We now stop every time we go by. It’s a nice 61 mile run from our home in Beaufort, SC. Chuck and Claria Gorgen ODYSSEE
Stayed there in Nov., 2012. The creek is shallowest at the entrance. The staff was very helpful on the radio with specific instructions. ie. green side, red side, etc. The marina was fairly quiet in Nov. The amenities were, clean, neat and accessible. The kicker, though, was the free use of the marina’s golf cart. You can run into town for anything you might need. What a deal! Jeff Moore
Was there two times early 2013. A little tricky getting in the first time. Red entrance aid missing. Best to enter at mid tide. Nice docks etc. Part of a private community on Skidaway Island. Not your everyday stop over unless you are stopping to visit some one you know there. Raymond W. Smith “Fire Dog”
Went in at mid-tide and the low spot is only for a few feet and had not difficulty. We saw a huge boat come in. The dock master is maybe the best in the USA. The currents are ripping thru here and with the slips being parallel with the river, when you turn into to alley way, you can be swept into boats. Free cart to take to village is a must. This is a definite return stop for us, but we will work for slack tides in the future, even if it is low tide. Price is very good. John Winter
Chuck and Claria Gorgen- October 22, 2012 - 7:28 pm
What a gem! Almost as nice as DIYC! We have just returned home from a wonderful weekend at the south end of Skidaway Island, GA, where we spent three nights at Delegal Creek Marina. This was the home marina for Bruce and Jeanne Elder when they were “looping” back in 2006-7. Bruce and Jeanne still live in The Landings near the marina. We had a nice visit with them. Delegal Creek is just north of Hells Gate at MM 601 on the ICW. Neat, clean, and friendly, $1.25 per ft. Billy, the Harbormaster makes it happen. This a place to relax, no commercial venues close by, but you can order a very tasty Chicken Pot pie to be delivered to your boat. 96 miles of bike paths and walking trails on the Island. Courtesy vehicle is a golf cart. If you’re just looking for a relaxing evening as you head south this fall, would recommend this to an alternate to Isle of Hope. One drawback, there is a shoal that is about 3.5 ft at 0 water at the entrance to the creek between G3 and R4, follow the channel not your chartplotter, so generally not accessable two hours either side of low tide, but channel is well marked and we had no problems getting in or out. Chuck and Claria Gorgen ODYSSEE
If you will be getting a rental car, check out Delegal Creek Marina on Skidaway Island (ask for directions on getting in. There is plenty of water but there is a dogleg going in.) It’s a nice condo marina with good facilities and walking the neighborhood is quiet and safe. Tammy & Michael
Dry Storage Rates Annual Contract: $12.50/ft/month, plus marina capital fee Monthly Contract: $15.00/ft/month, plus marina capital fee Jet Ski $100/month Kayak $25/monthWet Slips Rates $13.50/ft/month
Monthly Dockage Rate Notes:
Marina Capital fee will be billed at $40 per month per boat and will be included on the monthly Marina bill.Boat owners who do not own property at The Landings must sign an annual contract.
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