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
Take marina van to Publix supermarket 5 miles away
LPG (Propane) Availability:
Available. Use marina truck for LPG tank exchange at Zip In convenience store 2 to 3 miles away, or LPG tank exchange at Plantation Hardware (912-756-3316) 4 miles away
Stayed at Ft McAllister Marina on the evening of 27-28 March 2013. Low tide at Hells Gate and Sea Tow advised not making the transit in our boat due to shallows. Trip up the Ogeechee River was nerve wracking. Hit bottom 4 times as the Marina did not provide the kind of directions that an unfamiliar skipper could follow. Markers were all white so no indication of which side to pass. Simple directions, e.g., stay to the north side of the river and when you see the marina sign on the starboard bank make a 45 degree turn to port and head slowly toward the marina, would have probably made this uneventful. Nice people, low rates and fuel prices, and the resturant at the marina is well worth a visit with ample portions, good food and low prices. Tom Callan oo/b Great Escape 53 DeFever POC
This Marina has been completely redone. Dew docks and bot lift. The boat lift is huge. Being new there is plenty of room to dock overnight. The staff falls all over you to help in any way they can. They have a big open patio and usually have a live band on the weekends. Butch Broom runs the restaurant “Fish Tales” http://www.fishtalesrh.com/ He is a great guy and lots of fun. our local sail club and power squadron have events there. You have to party with the locals as there is not much else to do in the area. You can walk to historic Fort McAllister just down the street. Krquinn
If you are cruising up the Georgia coast nearing Savannah, Marian and I recommend Historic Fort McAllister Park. It is 5 miles up the Ogeechee river from the ICW. You can dock at Fort McAllister Marina (and walk less than a mile to the Park. (http://www.fortmcallistermarinaga.com). The owners are Butch & Sherri Broome. They also own the best seafood restaurant on the Georgia coast, Fish Tales, at the marina. Ask Butch if you can use their golf cart to ride to the Park. Our boat is docked at Fort McAllister so if you decide to stop tell Butch or Sherri that Marian & Mike Warlick sent you their way. Michael Warlick
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 were amazed at the flow of current at Ft.McAllister and even stronger at Savannah yacht club. Looked to be 3 or 4 knots! We are use to zero on the Tennessee. 🙂 We did not talk to the owner at Ft.McAllister as it was just not what we wanted for a long term home. But for a short term look good. We thought the restaurant was good. It really does seem to cater to the fishing crowd. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts. Now, we just have to make the arrangements to truck the boat there early next year. Tim
The charts, both paper and Garmin and Navionics are not worth a tinker’s dam [in cruising to Fort McAllister Marina, up the Ogeechee River from the AICW]. Follow the markers until you get to the sign on the right bank that points across the river and says Marina. Then 90 degrees to port at sign and go within 100 yards of left bank where you turn upriver to marina. Now all your charts will tell you that as you cross the river you will run aground in two feet of water but if you continue straight at the sign it is deep water all the way. Nay, it is just the opposite. Alex at the marina saw us and called on the phone to warn me we were going to be in trouble. He saved us just barely. Call ahead and stay in touch with them as you go up. Great stop and great food. Very friendly folks. Current runs fast at dock. Rusty and Jan Carlisle
The river is well marked by green and red buoys all the way to the marina!we went in at low tide, it is much better if you draft over 4 ft to go in at slack tide or high tide, it is so worth the trip if your boat will take you there! Colleen, Stan and Maybea2
The Ogeechee River is an excellent example of a river that follows the “rules of a mud bottom channel”! Look at the chart up to Ft. McAllister Marina and you will see what we’re talking about. DO NOT GO UP THERE FOLLOWING THE CENTER OF THE RIVER!!!! Chuck Gorgen
Colleen, Stan, and Maybea2- April 13, 2012 - 5:07 pm
To all you cruisers not in a hurry, this marina/stop is a must! Ft.McAllister Marina is a beautiful newer marina in Richmond Hill, GA. Ritchie Roberts (912) 727-2632 marina #, (912) 213-1368 cell#, is the manager and so nice and helpful! the cost here is very reasonable, just $1.00 foot, plus $5.00 for electric!!! you can afford to stay a few days and tour the historical Civil War Fort McAllister and the “Ford” museum, that’s Henry Ford. Ritchie will let you take his truck during the day sightseeing or go to the local supermarket for provisions. there is a restaurant on site, “Fish Tales” open Mon. – Thur. 4PM – 10 PM, Fri & Sat. 11 AM – 12 AM , Sunday 11 AM – 8PM. well worth the stop heading north in the spring or south in the winter… Just 8 miles up the Ogeechee River off the ICW on Ossabaw Sound! this just might be the New BEST destination. Colleen, Stan, and Maybea2 on the Power Cat, Next Endeavour
Matt Rollberg- August 15, 2011 - 3:57 pm
We stayed at this marina in August , 2011. Yes , there are markers , First 2 red , then 8 green and then 3 red to get you from the North shore to the South shore. Here we read depths of 4.5 to 5 feet at low tide ,flood rising. Our 4 foot draft , no problem. With a tide range of 6 plus feet, mid-tide or higher should be no problem for longer leg boats.Food and service at Fish Tales excellent. A visit to the Fort is a short walk . If you are a civil war afectionato, the well preserved earthwork fortification along with the museum is worth a visit.Hours 9 to 5 daily
Sharon ward- November 22, 2010 - 1:21 pm
Happily, The markers have been updated for easier access to Ft. McAllister Marina. This marina really is a gem; great, friendly service and the restaurant is terrific, and now has Sunday alcohol sales. The marina store is limited but they have a courtesy vehicle available and it is only a few miles into town where you can find plenty of everything. Repair services are available at the marina and there is even a Sea Tow onsite. Winter hours for the marina are 7AM till 6PM, 7 to 7 the rest of the year. The restaurant, Fish Tales, is open at 4PM weekdays and 11AM weekends, with live music on Saturday nights. The restaurant is closed Mondays. Ft. McAllister is worth the visit and is a great place for your yacht or fishing club event. Plus, you’ll see the most gorgeous sunsets on the ICW!
We are currently staying at Ft. McAllister Marina. Our boat draws 7 foot. we came in from the ocean and had no problem naviagating to the Marina. There are some navagation marker but mostly private ones. We had no problem following markers back. You can call the marina and they are more than helpful to give more detailed directions. I would not recommend coming in on low tide if you draw more than 5 foot. There is a shoal just east of the marina on the north side. The marina itself has a depth of 23 ft at low tide. The marina is well maintain full service marina. They can accomodate vessels up to 100 ft. The staff is very friendly and helpful. There are showers and free laundry. The resturant opened this past spring, “Fish Tales”. The food and staff is excellent. The menu varies in tastes and price. There is something for everyone. Just one downer …. no alcohol on Sunday. I would highly recommend this marina. Captain Sherry Eddy
Bob McLeran & Judy Young- October 30, 2009 - 6:07 pm
Now that we’re back home after five months cruising the ICW and Chesapeake Bay, I’d like to provide some navigation information for getting to the Ft. McAllister Marina on the Ogeechee River. It’s a relatively easy trip from ATON #96 until you get about 2 miles from the marina – then you need some local info or the waypoints I’ve provided here. As far as the river is concerned, intially hug the left bank (follow the green) and avoid the center just beyond the departure from the ICW, then in the charted 10 foot tongue cut across to the right side and hug the shore with the greens to port all the way to the first waypoint. Then cut back to the left side to the second waypoint. Then hug the shore again all the way to the marina. Water depths along the shore will run anywhere from 12-18 feet at MLW. Crossing between the waypoints at MLW you might see 7 feet. Tide runs about 8 feet, so if you’re concerned about the depth wait until mid-tide or higher. Don’t be afraid of getting too close to either shore – 50 to 100 yards is about right! Here are the two waypoints you’ll need: first (on the right bank) 31-54.1759N/081-11.2374W then cut to this one on the left bank 31-53.7890N/081-11.3404 (NOTE THE DEGREES ARE IN DEGREES AND MINUTES). You shouldn’t have any trouble if you use these waypoints to get back on the marina side of the Ogeechee. Avoid the stakes in the water near the marina – they mark a shallow area. There may be a red and green ball in the water where you cut across, but you can’t count on them being there or in the correct location. If you have any concerns call the marina by phone and they’ll find someone to guide you in when they can see you. It’s worth the trip!
Bob McLeran and Judy Young- October 22, 2009 - 8:41 am
We stayed in this marina for two nights in mid-October 2009 in order to be close to make a quick driving trip to our home in Florida. The marina is a jewel of a place to stay if you need access to the southern area of Savannah. It’s about 7 miles off the ICW, so may not be suitable for those just passing through the area. The rates are extremely reasonable. Friendly, helpful marina staff. You’ll need to consult them to find your way into the marina through the shoal water about a mile downstream of the marina, but it’s easy enough once you are told how to proceed. Former private ATONS washed away in the tidal current (up to 2.5 knots), but the Coast Guard is in the process of adding light-listed markers. Hopefully they’ll also conduct a bottom survey to update the chart of the area. The Maptech chartbook of the area does not cover the Ogeechee River beyond the ICW, but electronics charts on a laptop and chartplotter did; however, they were not accurate by any stretch of the imagination within 2 miles of the marina – that’s where you need to call for local knowledge. In the lower river, the charted 8 foot shoal extending from the north bank extends much further than shown. Stay close to the south bank (port side when going upstream) until past the 8 foot tongue and then move to the north (starboard) side the rest of the way up the river until coming around the last broad bend to port when you’ll need to switch to the port side of the river (and call for local knowledge). Close to the outer banks on both sides the depths run 12-16 feet at low tide. The on-site casual restaurant specializes in seafood and has a commanding view of the river and docks. Try the shrimp and grits – they’re great!
Subject: Fort McCallister Marina Cruising News: We spent the last 3 days at the Fort McCallister Marina with the district 26 power squadrons and this marina handled our needs with efficiency and first class service. The restaurant on site is excellent and all the staff were right there to fulfill our needs. Vicki Swierkowski
Claiborne, We just spent the weekend at Tybee Island on a Power Squadron cruise and rendezvous and we had about quite a few boats at Ft. McAllister Marina. I understand it has been there a long time, but was recently purchased and upgraded a great deal. They have a large hoist, lots of docks, great restaurant and catering service and the friendliest dockhands around. I had checked my cruising guide before the event and did not find them listed. When I checked with Toby regarding any visits from you; he was all in favor of my contacting you. I will put a link to their site in this email and hopefully, you will be able to recommend them. http://www.fortmcallistermarina.com/ The only weak link was the restroom facilities, but perhaps they will be in the next upgrade phase. Most of the boats were large enough that they probably used their own facilities. Hope all is well with you, Kathy Redford
Cruising News: I recently (6-10 thru 6-12-09) spent several days at the Fl McAllister Marina. The experience was great. It is located 6.1 nm up the Ogeechee River. Getting there is easy and well charted and marked. The only exception is when crossing the river from N bank to S Bank just 1.1 nm E of the marina. This crossing is well marked and has 4.0′ depth at .0′ low tide. The marina is well run by Toby Hansen who has a wealth of knowledge (fishing, cruising) not only local area but from the Pacific to the Atlantic. The restaurant at the marina, Fish Tales, has excellent local cuisine at fair prices. Historical Ft. McAllister Park is a short walk. For provisioning, there is a strip shopping within 6 mi with liquor store and Publix. Currents at the marina are parallel to the docks and the marina staff is very willing and able to get you safely secured to the dock. This area is a great wk end destination for local GA boaters and a great place to cool your heels for several days if moving on the ICW. Charles Wilsdorf
We stopped at Kilkenny Marina just off MM 614 of the ICW for one night in December. The marina is in a lovely location. The dock and facilities are rustic but they have now added one washing machine and one dryer. Only .50 cents a load. Scoot McKinley
Great stop and folks very helpful. Milemarker 107 Resturant very nice and food was great. Don’t judge a book by its cover, this is a very quaint stop between Saint Simons and Beaufort, SC. Would recommend for the adventurous types. Thanks everybody for the hospitality. JP
At approx MM613 is Kilkenny Creek with Kilkenny Creek Marina. Kilkenny has a reputation for being a particularly “quaint” stop in rural outback Georgia. Jim Healy
Rates have increased and are $1.50/ft now. They add a 3% chg if you use credit card. Bathroom/shower is in rough shape and no laundry or boater facilities. Small store with some food and drinks. Nice family that runs the place.
Especially nice were the people at the Kilkenny marina and the restaurant there was very welcoming. Made the sunset bridge for the 3 :00 opening and then it shut down for the day. Keep up the good work. Next time we will take the time to really enjoy the trip. Captain Ted Richman aboard Siren Song
Jan 30, 2010 If you want to get some insight as to what it may have been like cruising the ICW 40 years ago, plan to stop here. Very straight forward going up Kilkenny Creek. Side tie on port or starbgoard depending on tidal flow. Restaurant is now open. Call ahead to be sure. Restrooms open only during office hours (7am to 7pm). Really nice folks and real country. There is one long floating dock. Very dangerous on a frosty morn’. We left Harbour Town on Hilton Head – stopped at Kilkenny – and proceeded to Brunwick Landing. A perfect stopping point. Capt Dave
Naturally, we got there on Monday so couldn’t try the new resturant. This is our fifth stop in the last three years and we plan on stopping there again. Robert and Bob are super and do their best to please. The peace and quiet is wonderful. Good diesel prices, also.
Subject: Marker 107 Restaurant at Kilkenny Cruising News: Claiborne, a new restaurant opened at Kilkenny in late July, Marker 107. I have eaten there three times, I live new by and boat the waters often. It is a great place, all the meals have been great. You can tie up for free to dine, if you overnight you have to pay the Kilkenny Marina. The view from the open veranda dining area is great. Dexter Brewer
Claiborne, I’ve been up and down the ICW several times and I *still* keep Killkenny on my “must stop” list. It’s a pleasure to talk to the owners and a joy to sleep in absolute peace and quiet. Plus the sky is loaded with stars if you’re lucky enough to pick a cloudless night. I really like to watch them launch those small boats with their ingenious launch rig. It’s right up there with Leland Oil Company as a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of most other stops. Both of these places are examples of what I imagine the ICW was like many years ago. Another excellent one is the B&B Seafood Company. I believe that is what it’s called.
We stayed at Kilkenny Marina at the end of June this year. It was strategically located between St. Simons and Savannah. The entrance channel had plenty of depth all the way up the creek, and the dockmaster monitored the VHF and gave us docking instructions before we got there. This is a barebones operation – no restaurant or rest rooms to speak of, just dockside electricity and water,but I was impressed with the friendliness of the people. It was eerily quiet all night, and we saw a lot of stars. A welcome change from the touristy towns of Fernandina and Golden Isles. Sherry Rabin S/V Evening Star
We took a look a couple of years ago at Kilkenny and decided to avoid it. It was just a shack and a dock with some scary looking characters hanging around. A friend of mine dropped by there this year and said the place has changed a lot, with a restaurant added. See if you get more info on this place because it is well located and may have gone through a transformation. Best regards, Woody Norwood
The Deliverance music is only in your head… if you suppress it, you will be fine. Docks are crappy, but hey, its supposed to be an adventure, right! I heard the new restaurant folded again. Not sure of current status Name Withheld By Request
Stayed at Kilkenny Creek Marina in fall. Very bad docks. Bugs. Dockmaster nice man. Restaurant was a find. Very good meal. Anchored in Kilkenny Creek in the spring just off ICW before marina. Good holding (mud) and swing room. Dick and Char Boehm
Your question number sixteen about Kilkenny asked about the restaurant. The restaurant is closed. Apparently, the chef didn’t work out. Also, beware of the 15 feet vertical lift opening used to pull small craft onto trailers. There is no warning or gate and the unsuspecting might take a plunge into the river especially at night. We thought we heard some fiddle music in the background but couldn’t confirm. Overall a unique experience! Sam Vail 40′ MV “Hedyperl
We arrived at Sunbury Crab Co. late afternoon after turning west off the ICW onto the Medway River. Southern charm was evident in every interaction and phone call. Elaine has become our new friend. She saved the BEST table for us for dinner, despite the busy Friday night local crowd. Needless to say, the food was exceptional Southern cooking including fresh fish, okra, stewed tomatoes and Kentucky pie. David and Jacuelyn
This marina is 8 miles up the Medway River from the ICW. Plenty of deep water. Marina facility is basic but docks are good with water and power. Restaurant serving fresh local shrimp was excellent, but only open Wednesday thru Saturday nights. Ask for the owner, Elaine, and she will make sure you have a comfortable stay.
If you haven’t tried it, PLEASE …. Take a brief trip up the River off I C W to Sunbury Crab just south of Savannah, and enjoy a bit of old Key West, and old Florida, in the heart of beautiful “down east Georgia ” with Barney and Elaine. Great place to hang out with some of the best food ever. If you are not on your boat, it is to reach by car too. This is a must ” experience !!” First Mate Sue
We stopped here in May of 2012 on our way north during our Great Loop trip. Elaine welcomed us at the dock and invited us up for a couple of free beers. We were disappointed to find the restaurant closed the day of our visit, so Elaine called her sons, opened the restaurant just for us and cooked us a wonderful meal. True southern hospitality and a very gracious lady. Don’t miss Sunbury Crab Co. Joe Apicella
Although my visit to Sunbury Crab Company and Marina has been over a year ago, I feel compelled to submit kind words and a hearty recommendation for this excellent marina and restaurant whenever I find the opportunity.
Everyone is always looking for a little local knowledge and treasured stopovers when traveling the ICW. Sunbury is one such place that flies below the radar of most cruisers. Located along an isolated stretch of the GA coastline and several miles up the mostly uncharted Medway River, the marina & restaurant are not well known. One trip there and you will never pass this stretch of the ICW without making Sunbury Crab Company & Marina a regular stopover.
The marina & restaurant are owned and run by Elaine and Bernie Maley and their sons. They literally catch the crab from the river, cook them, bring to your table, mix your drink, and do it all! During weekend visits I think Bernie even plays in the band. I wrote a review for TripAdvisor and called this place a little piece of heaven and the keys all bundled together. For Elaine and her family it is their paradise, and they are willing to share with everyone who stops by.
I suggest calling ahead to make reservations. Calling is much better than email for some reason. After the first couple miles off the ICW the Medway River is not marked. There is a tricky crossover point with 5′ or less water at low tide. After my visit there I marked the channel on a chart and sent to Elaine. It is now posted on their web site.
There are many good articles and reviews about Sunbury Crab Company on the facility’s web site. Believe every word you read! While the crabs are excellent, I think the boiled shrimp are the best I’ve ever eaten – and believe me I’ve eaten a lot of shrimp!!
James Newsome Contributing Writer – SOUTHWINDS Magazine
Stayed at Sunbury May 23, 2013. The dock is great and the restaurant is fantastic (see web site for days open). They are very friendly, kind people.
I printed the map on their web site and followed it – be careful not to cut the corner on the entrance to the Sunbury Channel – otherwise navigation is a cake walk, and never less than 14 ft. or water.
There are few alternatives in this area, and although it’s a way off the ICW, it is a great place to visit. This is our second visit, and I am sure we will stop there again as we pass through Georgia.
We stayed there one night in May 2012. We went there for the food and were disappointed to find the restaurant was closed. When we arrived the owner, Elaine, and one of her sons met us at the dock with 2 cold beers in hand, compliments of the house. When we told her how disappointed we were that we couldn’t eat there, she opened up the restaurant for us and had her son prepare a wonderful meal for us. As someone who catches and eats blue crabs every summer on Cape Cod, I wanted to watch how a “professional” crab picker picked crabs. Her son was only too happy to show me. He brought 3 crabs to the table and picked them all within 3 minutes, then gave me the crab meat as an appetizer. Elaine sat with us during dinner and told us about her family, her business, and the area history. Needless to sat we were thrilled with the stay and will make it a point to stop there whenever we go by. Pat and Joe Apicella
I intend never to pass mile 620 again without a visit to the Sunbury Crab Company. The best crabs I have had anywhere, hands down. I saw them in the bottom of the boat a few hours before. They try to catch only what they will serve that night each day. You won’t find fresher without catching your own. The marina and the owners make this a very friendly stop. There is also a very interesting anchorage up the river around the bend with vertical bluffs falling into the water. Very deep but you can find shallow water upstream with some protection from the fast current. I sheltered from very strong winds both here and at the marina. Lots of history here you would never expect. It was once the major trading port in Georgia. My SBO post on Sunbury: http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=148218&#post985358 Roger Long S/V Strider
Cruising up the [Medway River] was easy. It is well marked and has adequate water depths. We draw 3 1/2 ft. Docks at Sunbury Crab are fine and the food there is GREAT. Best fried shrimp we have ever eaten. Captain Bren
We have stayed here in the past for several nights. We love it. The channel has a few markers, but you can follow your chart for the deep water which meanders from one side of the Medway River to the other as you go west to the marina. We encountered nothing less than 8 ft. on our way up, but most was much deeper. If you like fresh Blue Crab, then this is your place. They bring you a big bucket of them and a mallet to open them up. The restaurant owners go out each day to harvest their crabs, so you cannot find anything fresher. Delicious. The docks are OK, not great. You tie along their long face dock and it is a fair walk to shore. There are really no facilities on shore other than the restaurant. There is one reason to go here, and it is the fresh Blue Crabs. So good!! Marc and Shelley Colby M/V Rock Chalk Endeavour 44 Trawlercat
Another neat run. There is one marker that as you travel from the south, and then have to make a turn to starboard to cross over the river appears to be out of place on an island, but as you get closer, it makes sense. It is an easy navigation, but there are many shallow spots that if you watch your charts, they are plotted correctly. Strong currents, but since you tie to a face dock, it is not big deal. Neat old GA area with nothing there, but if you want to eat, make sure the restaurant is open when you go. John Winter
Warm Hospitality With A Tropical Ambiance. Sunbury Crab Company Restaurant and Marina just 6 miles off the AICW at MM 620 on the Medway River provides a safe haven and memorable dinning experience. A convenient overnight stop for the waterway traveller or a pleasant place to tarry awhile. The deep water approach on the Medway River is straight forward as long as the chart is studied before hand. Family owned and operated the restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday. The layout and colored lights are reminiscent of the islands. A varied menu, but dependent on season, the locally freshly caught shrimp, oysters, fish and crab are outstanding. All dishes are cooked to order and the menu moderately priced. Live music on occasion. Floating docks, running in line with the current flow, are wide, stable and supported by tall pilings. Water and electric pedestals allow for dockage for up to 12 boats in the 40 foot range. Diesel fuel and ethnol free gasoline is available dockside. No pump out facility at this time. Head and shower facilities are available ashore. This is much more than just another marina stop as the Maley family, Elaine, Barney and sons Joe and Clay offer a most friendly, helpful welcome to fellow sailors. The shrimp boat, SEA TRAWLER, Captain Dennis Murphy, regularly docks here to unload his daily catch. These delicious freshly caught shrimp are available for sale. Colin Day, Jean Henderson . Trawler: LILY MARIA.
I, too, have nothing but great things to say about the Sunbury Crab Company. Last year I pulled in there with a very sick admiral (wife). These folks were terrific! Not only did they transport us to the nearest hospital (Savannah), but they also picked us up when she was discharged and brought us back to our vessel. Not only that, they kept their restaurant open so we could eat when we got back. I, we, owe these folks big time, but they never asked for anything extra … I had to practically push it on them. We will stop in there again, whenever we get the chance. Lance Rutallie
I came in on a 40′ sloop Braveheart…Spent two-three days under repair en route to Southport NC Home Port. These People were Great To Me..Helped get me to rebuild shop and I found the Son’s who run the place to be Solid People..I was solo and had broke my finger a week before landing there..I want to Thank Them..Thank You I was the Gunsmith if you have forgotton me.. Thanks Again, Mark Shibles
We made the trip on 9/16/11. 8.4 miles off the ICW per my GPS. Not a bad trip. I just plotted a course using updated charts and the best water and do not remember any real shallow spots, we draw 3′. The marina is a little rough and we were not initially met, perhaps if we had called on the phone. Fuel $4.75 for gas, water, electricity, ice, wi fi are available. No showers but the owner (Elaine-very nice lady) allowed us to shower at her house right next door to the restaurant. The restaurant is a family place and very unique with great food. The clam chowder was excellent. Email r267890@pbtcomm.net and I can send you my GPS data in Garmin or .gpx format. Lady Soul II M & M Rhett
Tom & Sue board m/v Marbles- November 13, 2010 - 3:36 pm
We 2nd that recommendation for stopping at the Sunbury Crab Company! On our way north in June we stopped for a visit…..terrific atmosphere, great food, wonderful service, and friendly staff. It would have been our loss if we had not made the 7 mile trip off the ICW to experience the setting and the hospitality. Tom & Sue board m/v Marbles
Captains Wendy & Lee aboard Peacemonger- November 13, 2010 - 3:28 pm
We spent last night, November 12, 2010 at Sunbury Crab Co. We were the only boaters here. Very nice people, although no one greeted us at the dock, no problem docking ourselves. Elaine, the owner, was great, she even let us take showers in her house! Had a hearty seafood dinner at the restaurant and really enjoyed the southern hospitality. Will come back for sure! Was worth the diversion off the ICW. Captains Wendy & Lee aboard Peacemonger headed for Captiva.
Gerald and Cheri Wallace- November 1, 2010 - 5:12 pm
October 31st, 2010, 7:29 pm It is now October 31st and we are at the Sunbury Crab Co and am so pleased that we choose to add this as one of our stops while en-route from Charleston, SC to Jacksonville, FL. The hospitality at the dock and at the restaurant was excellent and the food was delightful, although it has been a long time since I had to work that hard to get the meat from the crab to my mouth. We took a walk after dinner but the only tour site recommended was the cemetery but given that it was Halloween and that the no-see-ums were bad and hungry we chose to be casual and retreat back to the boat after a quick walk. The access to the Sunbury Marina is easy especially on a rising tide, so if in the area don’t waste passing a trip up the Medway River without visiting this location that offers a discount for AGLCA members. Also thanks to the Favors for suggesting the stop on their blog, the owners were still telling stories but for now it is back to scratching the no-see-um bites. Gerald and Cheri Wallace aboard m/v Takes Two
After reading the above postings we called Bernard and secured reservations for last night, a very cold December Sunday. We were directed to their website for directions, which after careful reading took us right in…deep water most of the way, and we did not encounter any real skinny spots Note that it is almost 7 miles in, BUT WELL WORTH THE DETOUR. They are the third set of docks on the Sunbury Creek Canal and have a large flag on their fuel dock, which is up from the face dock. They are the nicest people, so hospitable and the food is GREAT. We had a special shrimp chowder and then a bucket (a big bucket-chock full) of Blue Crabs. It’s also a great place to stretch your legs, a short walk takes you to an old, and now well tended, graveyard. A really lovely family run marina and restaurant. We will definitely stop again on our way north next Spring. Thanks for the tip! Ade & Jo Salzer-M/V Wandering Star Jo & Ade Salzer
We left Savannah today and are currently docked at Sunbury Crab Co Restaurant and Marina up the Medway River @ mile 620 on the AICW. Elaine has extended a discount rate of $1.25 plus elect for AGLCA members (regular $1.75) and the 4 of us boats can attest to the down home hospitality that Sunbury has to offer. It’s one of those unique experiences like Hoppies or Bobbies Fish Camp except with real nice floating docks. They have a restaurant and bar on sight…we’ve been to the bar and it is truly unique…more later on the the restaurant. If you’re an AGLCA member and heading down the coast or when you’re heading up in the spring you should plan on making this a must stop. Jim & Lisa Favors – Kismet
Subject: Sunbury Crab Co. Cruising News: Sunbury Crab Company. We saw the sponsorship ad at the top of this page and took a detour up the Medway River to the Sunbury Crab Co. It’s a new floating dock in front of the restaurant. It was a lovely trip up the river and the owners were friendly and enthusiastic. We found a lobster bucket with coffees and a newspaper when we got up in the morning!) It’s a bare bones marina with electricity and water. More to come in the future? The restaurant is not to be missed if you like blue crabs and other nicely prepared sea food in a rustic setting. Allen Ames
Not been there by water, myself, but talked to those who have. No problem, if you follow the charted deep water. Fun restaurant. Band on the weekends. Pool and a couple of rooms for anyone wanting to get off their boat for a night. Nice family owned restaurant.
Carol and Dick Rosenberg- July 22, 2009 - 11:50 am
Subject: Sunbury Crab Restaurant & Marina Cruising News: WOW!! We usually make the long slog from Isle of Hope to Golden Isles Marina in one day.. Timing the tides makes the treck long and difficlt. Today we took your advice and stopped at Sunbury Crab Restaurant and Marina on the Medway River. Approach is very easy, the welcome is genuine, and the food is wonderful. If you are tired of the long slog……make sure and STOP AT SUNBURY!! Floating docks, fuel and great food!. Carol and Dick Rosenberg Carrousel Fleming 55
The Sunbury Crab Co, on the Medway River, is only 5 mile off the ICW and provides a real nice place to sit until the next day to make the next run down to the Little Mud River & Jekyll Creek. The people are really nice & the food is GREAT !! Larry Hemmerich
Cruising News: Once again we must report that SUNBURY CRAB is a wonderful [lace to stop. The entry up the Medway River is deep, the docks are protected and new, and the food and the people are just first rate! If you want a great place to stop between Isle of Hope and Golden Isles, this is it!! Carol and Dick Rosenberg CARROUSEL Fleming 55
We are staying at a very quaint Marina on the Medway River. Sunbury Marina. A nice stop for us slower boats from Savannah-Brunswick Ga. The food is excellent Bob & Becky M/V SUNCATCHER
Subject: Sunbury Crab Co Cruising News: “Mangos” spent two pleasurable nights at Sunbury recently and enjoyed every minute. The owner/operators are the Maley family. Follow the outstanding directions on their website or call them up and they will guide you in. Foating Docks are new. Seafood at the restaurant is simply outstanding. Call ahead for hours. Friendly and accommodating fokes at the Crab Co and worth the extra time for a little side trip off the ICW.
Reviews from Cruisers (2)
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.