Gulf Harbour Marina is a luxury public boating facility located along the Intracoastal Waterway on the south bank of the Caloosahatchee River. Recognized as one of the most protected and high-end harbors in Southwest Florida, it provides boaters with a modern, deep-water environment just five miles from the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The marina serves as a preferred “destination stop” for Great Loopers and offshore yacht owners, offering a combination of professional maritime services and a scenic residential setting. Its blend of superior security, premium amenities, and a naturally sheltered basin makes it a standout choice for discerning boaters.
Strategic Location & Essential Contact Information
The marina’s location is ideal for boaters wishing to explore Sanibel Island, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach, providing a tranquil yet convenient base just minutes from open water and local attractions.
- Address: 14500 Vista River Dr, Fort Myers, FL 33908.
- Official Website: http://www.gulfharbourmarina.com
- Phone: +1 (239) 437-0881
- VHF Radio: Monitors Channel 16.
- Coordinates: N 26° 31.400’ / W 081° 56.400’.
Approaching from the ICW, vessels navigate a well-marked, deep-water channel. The marina basin is known for being extremely well-sheltered from river wake and heavy winds, ensuring a calm and secure berth.
Gulf Harbour Marina
Table of Contents
Where is Gulf Harbour Marina located and how do you get there?
Gulf Harbour Marina is located on the Caloosahatchee River, just off the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Myers. The approach is via a well-marked, deep channel into the protected marina basin.
Approach Coordinates & Navigation:
Use coordinates N 26° 31.400’, W 081° 56.400’ for navigation. From the main ICW channel, follow the marked entrance into the Gulf Harbour community waterway. The marina will be on your port side. The channel and basin are maintained for deep-draft vessels, with no fixed bridges impeding access. The entrance is within a 24-hour security-gated community, providing a safe and monitored arrival.
What services and amenities does Gulf Harbour Marina offer?
Gulf Harbour Marina is a full-service facility offering 186 floating slips, a fuel dock, modern bathhouses, laundry, high-speed Wi-Fi, and the unique convenience of individual pump-out stations at every slip.
Detailed Amenities Breakdown:
- Boater Essentials: A full-service fuel dock offering Rec 90 ethanol-free gasoline and marine diesel. State-of-the-art, air-conditioned bathhouses with private showers and a dedicated laundromat.
- Unique Features: The standout amenity is a dedicated pump-out connection at every single slip, eliminating the need to move your boat for this service. The marina also has an active Social Committee organizing events.
- Security & Comfort: Located within a 24-hour guarded, gated community offering exceptional security. The floating concrete docks provide easy, stable access regardless of tide.
How much does it cost to dock at Gulf Harbour Marina?
Transient dockage is $3.00 per foot per day. Monthly leases average about $22.50 per foot, and annual leases average $20.50 per foot.
Rate Structure & Additional Fees:
The published transient rate is $3.00/foot/day, which includes water and Wi-Fi. Electricity (30/50 AMP) is metered separately. For long-term stays, monthly and annual rates are competitive for this premium location. Many slips are individually owned as condominiums and may be rented directly from owners, with prices for a 48-foot slip typically ranging from $950 to $1,200 monthly.
Can Gulf Harbour Marina accommodate a superyacht?
The marina can comfortably accommodate vessels up to 97 feet in length, making it suitable for large motor yachts and superyachts on the upper end of that scale.
Large Vessel Specifications & Services:
With 186 slips, several are designed for yachts 80 feet and larger. The floating concrete dock system and deep basin (approx. 8 feet MLW) are well-suited for vessels with significant draft. The professional dock staff is experienced in handling large yachts and can assist with coordination for services and provisions.
What are the key differences between Gulf Harbour Marina and other area marinas?
Its defining features are its location within a secured, master-planned community, the unique in-slip pump-out system, and its reputation as one of the best-protected hurricane holes in the region.
Comparative Advantages:
Unlike many marinas, Gulf Harbour offers the security and ambiance of a high-end residential community without requiring residency. The in-slip pump-out is a rare convenience that highlights its focus on boater ease. Its geographic design provides superior natural protection from storms, a critical factor for boat owners in Florida.
Is this a good stop on the Great Loop?
Yes, it is considered a premier stop on the Great Loop. Its protected location on the Caloosahatchee River, full suite of amenities, and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico make it a favorite layover for Loopers.
Why Loopers Choose It:
Loopers appreciate the exceptional security, the ease of the floating docks, and the ability to handle all chores (laundry, showers, pump-out) without hassle. Its location is perfect for staging before crossing the Okeechobee Waterway to Florida’s east coast or for exploring the islands of Sanibel and Captiva before continuing north.
Can you live aboard your boat at this marina?
The marina primarily caters to seasonal visitors and boat owners rather than permanent liveaboards. Long-term leases are available, but the community’s focus is on recreational boating within a residential setting.
Liveaboard Policies:
While the marina may accommodate extended seasonal stays, it is not typically designated as a liveaboard community. Those interested in a long-term stay should contact the marina office directly to discuss current policies and availability, as these can be subject to the rules of the individual slip owners and the community association.
What are the nearby attractions and activities?
The marina is a perfect base for exploring Southwest Florida’s famous islands, beaches, and cultural attractions, including Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers Beach, and downtown Fort Myers.
Activity Guide:
- On the Water: Direct access to the Gulf of Mexico for offshore fishing, sailing, and cruising to barrier islands. The Caloosahatchee River offers scenic cruising and inshore fishing.
- Beaches & Nature: World-class shelling on Sanibel Island, the pristine beaches of Captiva, and the wildlife at Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge are all a short boat ride or drive away.
- Dining & Culture: Enjoy the restaurants and shops at Fort Myers Beach or explore the historic downtown River District of Fort Myers, known for its art, dining, and the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Public Status | Public, Full-Service Marina |
| Location | Intracoastal Waterway, Fort Myers, FL |
| Total Slips | 186 Floating Concrete Slips |
| Max Vessel LOA | 97 Feet |
| Dock Type | Concrete Floating Docks |
| Depth (MLW) | 8.0 Feet |
| Fuel Types | Rec 90 Gas (Ethanol-Free), Marine Diesel |
| Power Options | 30 / 50 AMP (Metered) |
| Core Amenities | In-Slip Pump-out, Showers, Laundry, Wi-Fi, Fuel Dock, Security |
| Security | 24-Hour Gated Community Guard |
| Primary Contact | (239) 437-0881 / gulfharbourmarina.com |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Gulf Harbour Marina open to the public?
Yes. It is a public commercial marina. Anyone can rent a slip; you do not need to be a resident of the Gulf Harbour community.
What is the largest boat the marina can handle?
The marina can accommodate vessels up to 97 feet in length.
What are the transient dockage rates?
The current daily transient rate is $3.00 per foot.
Does the marina have a fuel dock?
Yes. The fuel station provides ethanol-free gasoline (90 octane) and marine diesel.
Can I pump out my boat in my slip?
Yes. A unique feature of Gulf Harbour Marina is the individual pump-out hookup available at every slip.
Is the marina secure?
Yes. The marina is located within the Gulf Harbour gated community, which features 24-hour security guards at the entrance and roving patrols.
Are there shower and laundry facilities?
Yes. The marina features pristine, air-conditioned bathhouses with private showers and a dedicated on-site laundromat for guests.
How many slips are available?
The marina features 186 floating concrete berths.
Final Verdict: Gulf Harbour Marina stands as a top-tier destination that masterfully combines luxury, security, and practical boater-centric design. Its unique in-slip pump-out system, exceptional natural protection, and setting within a premier guarded community offer an unparalleled experience for transient and long-term boaters alike. For those seeking a safe, sophisticated, and fully-equipped harbor on Florida’s Southwest Coast—whether for a night, a season, or as a home port—Gulf Harbour Marina represents the gold standard.
Contact Information
Gulf Harbour Marina
14500 Vista River Dr
Fort Myers, FL 33908
Marina Office: +1 (239) 437-0881
Website: http://www.gulfharbourmarina.com
VHF Radio: Channel 16
