The Renaissance Vinoy Resort Marina is found in the northernmost of the three downtown St. Petersburg dockage basins, hard by the vibrant downtown St. Petersburg dining and shopping district. I have always been VERY IMPRESSED with this facility and am pleased to hear that Captain Block had such a good experience here.
Of course, cruisers should also consider the adjacent St. Petersburg Municipal Marina, A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR, and, quite simply, one of the largest and best managed city owned and operated marinas it has been my pleasure to review in my 30+ years as a cruising guide author!

We’ve bareboat chartered sailboats in BVI, PNW, and other areas in the Gulf. All the charters were fine but none of the charter companies come close to the quality, service, and value provided by Sailing Florida Charters. The charter company crew was led by Site Manager Patrick H. The entire crew was great but Patrick was totally amazing. He was completely determined to make our charter and sailing experience a delight and he succeeded.
We had planned to visit other anchorages and marinas in the Tampa Bay area but when we became aware of the great service and facilities at St. Petersburg’s Vinoy Marina we couldn’t resist just returning there at the end of the day. Very nice dock area and right across the street from the Renaissance Vinoy Resort. Each day we left the Mediterranean-style docking (backing into the wind) to Patrick and his crew.
We spent only one night on the boat. The Resort was too enticing and we ended up spending the other nights of the charter there. Very nice ‘“ and we were given a room upgrade and a bottle of champagne when they learned we were celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary. We also became well acquainted with the nearby 400 Beach Seafood and Tap restaurant and strongly recommend their seafood salad.
Thanks to Patrick, his crew, and others in St. Petersburg, FL for a great vacation. The only downside is that now we’re really spoiled.
We’ll be back!
Loren Block

We stayed at the Vinoy Marina for most of the Memorial weekend this year. Very pleasant experience. Easy in-out to channel. Harbormaster Wes is wonderful. My bride doesn’t care much for advanced line handling, we rig the finger pier side bow and stern lines, she hands them off to Wes, tosses him line for the springs, and goes below to freshen up. He does the rest. If momma is happy ‘“ everybody is happy. Transient dock is not long, so it’s an easy walk to sea wall and street. Entry and exit is secure, there is a day head at the entry, very thoughtful. Full bathhouse amenities across the street in the Vinoy adjacent to their spa. All Vinoy dining venues are excellent. Great dining also at 400 Beach, Moon Under the Water, and Parkshore just a block away. Bayfront St. Pete is not to be missed. Lots of green park space. Very pet friendly; our dog was given a bowl of water before we were asked what we wanted to drink. Oh, I know it is bumpy when the wind is out of the East (it was while we were there). People who don’t like a little rolling should buy motorhomes. The Vinoy is beautiful. Great Italian illy coffee is available at 6:00AM in the convenience area off the lobby. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Blake Whitney

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