Mariner Cay Marina stands as a distinctive and premier public marina nestled within the exclusive, gated community of Mariner Cay in Stuart, Florida. Situated on the deep, protected waters of the Manatee Pocket, this facility offers boaters a rare and coveted combination: the high-end security and meticulous upkeep of a private residential enclave with full, welcoming accessibility to the public. It presents a serene, professional maritime environment that serves as one of the most protected and sought-after “hurricane holes” in all of Martin County, making it an ideal home base for discerning cruisers, seasonal snowbirds, and local boaters who prioritize safety and tranquility.
Strategic Location & Essential Contact Information
The marina enjoys a prime position just over a mile west of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) at Mile Marker 987.8, making it a convenient and easy detour for travelers navigating Florida’s east coast. Its location deep within the Manatee Pocket provides exceptional shelter from wind, waves, and the wakes of larger vessel traffic.
- Address: 3901 SE St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, FL 34997
- Official Website: https://marina.marinercay.org
- Phone: +1 (772) 283-9990
- VHF Radio: Monitors Channel 16
- Coordinates: N 27° 09.500’ / W 080° 11.700’
A unique aspect of access is that the marina is situated inside a gated community. Visitors arriving by land must stop at the 24/7 attended security gate, identify themselves as marina guests, and will be issued a temporary pass for entry. This process ensures security while remaining straightforward for expected visitors.
Mariner Cay Marina
Table of Contents
Public Status and Professional Management
Despite its location within a private community, Mariner Cay Marina is unequivocally a public-access commercial facility. This model offers the best of both worlds: the amenities and security of a private club without the requirement for membership.
- Public Slip Availability: The marina operates under a specific agreement where approximately 90% of its slips are designated for public rental on a commercial basis.
- Professional Oversight: The marina is professionally managed by Advantage Property Management, ensuring consistent operations, maintenance, and customer service. An on-site dockmaster is available daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Flexible Contracting: Boaters have the flexibility to choose from daily transient, monthly, seasonal, or annual dockage agreements based on their needs.
- Guest Privileges: While the primary community clubhouse is reserved for residents, marina guests are granted specific access rights to key common areas, including the marina bathhouse and the community swimming pool.
The overall atmosphere is one of quiet, order, and meticulous care, catering to serious boaters who prefer a secure, residential setting over a bustling, high-traffic resort or waterfront bar scene.
Slips and Vessel Specifications
Mariner Cay Marina is expertly designed to safely accommodate a wide variety of vessels, from deep-draft sailboats to substantial motor yachts, with a focus on secure, long-term berthing.
- Total Slips: 51 deep-water slips.
- Maximum Vessel Size: The marina can comfortably accommodate yachts up to 80 feet in length overall (LOA).
- Transient Dockage: Approximately 100 feet of face dock is dedicated specifically for transient boaters seeking short-term stays.
- Dock Construction: Fixed wooden docks built with heavy-duty pilings for stability and durability.
- Depth: The marina maintains a consistent depth of 6.0 feet at the approach and dockside at mean low water.
The marina’s advantageous position at the head of the Manatee Pocket provides unparalleled protection from wind, tidal surge, and the wakes from the main river channel, solidifying its reputation as a premier location for secure, long-term vessel storage.
Comprehensive Dockage and Electrical Rates
Mariner Cay Marina offers a transparent, tiered pricing structure that provides value for long-term stays while remaining competitive for transient visitors. All rates are subject to the applicable Florida sales tax.
Dockage Rate Structure:
- Transient Daily Rate: $3.00 per foot (LOA) per day.
- Seasonal Rate (November – April): $24.00 per foot per month.
- Summer Rate (May – October): $18.00 per foot per month.
- Annual Lease Rate: $19.00 per foot per month, offering the best value for year-round boaters.
Liveaboard Policy:
Mariner Cay is notably one of the few marinas in the Stuart area that officially and formally permits liveaboards, making it a true home for cruising couples and individuals.
- Liveaboard Monthly Fee: $150.00 per month, in addition to the base slip rent.
- Policy: Liveaboard status is granted on a case-by-case basis and requires formal approval from the marina management company.
Shore Power Metering:
Electrical service is metered separately to ensure fair usage.
- 30-Amp Service: $7.00 per day or $80.00 per month.
- 50-Amp Service: $10.00 per day or $145.00 per month.
Amenities and On-Site Services
While the ambiance is one of residential calm, Mariner Cay Marina provides a full suite of modern amenities and essential services that cater to the needs of today’s boater.
Core Services:
- Fuel Dock: An on-site refueling station offers high-quality, ethanol-free gasoline and ValvTect marine diesel, known for its cleaning additives and stabilizing properties.
- Pump-Out Service: Mobile pump-out service is available for a fee of $5.00 per service, ensuring environmental compliance and convenience.
Guest Amenities & Comfort:
- Swimming Pool Access: Marina guests have full access to the community’s beautiful swimming pool, located conveniently adjacent to the docks.
- Bathhouse & Laundry: A dedicated, clean marina bathhouse provides private restrooms and hot showers. On-site, pay-per-use laundry machines are available for guest convenience.
- High-Speed WiFi: Complimentary, robust wireless internet is available throughout the marina at all slips.
- Picnic Areas: Designated picnic areas with charcoal grills are available for guest use, perfect for a dockside meal.
Security & Policies:
- 24/7 Gated Security: The community features 24-hour guarded gate entry for land access and roving nighttime security patrols, creating an exceptionally safe environment for both vessels and owners.
- Pet-Friendly Policy: The marina welcomes responsible pet owners. Pets must remain on a leash at all times while on community and marina property.
Navigation, Approach, and Safety
Navigating to Mariner Cay Marina is a straightforward process, with the final approach leading into the calm, protected waters of the Manatee Pocket.
Approach Details:
- From the ICW: Follow the well-marked channel west from the Intracoastal Waterway into the Manatee Pocket. The marina is located on the north side of the pocket.
- Tidal Considerations: The tidal range in the area is approximately 2.0 feet. As the marina utilizes fixed docks, boaters should prepare their fender and line strategy to accommodate this swing.
- Currents & Wake: Tidal currents within the sheltered pocket are minimal, allowing for manageable docking maneuvers. The inland location provides excellent shielding from the wake of high-speed traffic on the broader St. Lucie River.
The marina’s design and location contribute significantly to vessel safety, offering peace of mind during both everyday stays and severe weather events.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Public Status | Public Commercial Marina (90% Public Slips) |
| Total Slips | 51 Deep-Water Slips |
| Max Vessel LOA | 80 Feet |
| Draft Capacity | 6.0 Feet at Mean Low Water |
| Liveaboard Policy | Yes ($150/month additional fee) |
| Fuel Types | ValvTect Diesel & Ethanol-Free Gasoline |
| Transient Rate | $3.00 per foot per day |
| Security | 24/7 Gated Access & Roving Patrols |
| Core Amenities | Pool, Bathhouse, Laundry, WiFi, Grill Areas |
| Primary Contact | +1 (772) 283-9990 / marina.marinercay.org |
Why Choose Mariner Cay Marina?
Selecting Mariner Cay Marina means choosing an unparalleled blend of security, serenity, and value in the heart of Florida’s Treasure Coast. It is the definitive choice for boaters whose priorities extend beyond mere dockage to encompass a complete lifestyle of safety and comfort.
Unmatched Security and Peace of Mind: The combination of a 24/7 attended gate, roving security patrols, and a quiet, residential setting creates one of the safest possible environments in Florida to leave a vessel unattended for short or extended periods. Owners can travel with confidence, knowing their investment is well-protected.
A Rare Liveaboard Haven: In a region where liveaboard slips are increasingly scarce, Mariner Cay’s official and welcoming policy is a significant advantage. It fosters a stable, friendly community of experienced cruisers and provides a legitimate, long-term home base for those living the aboard lifestyle.
Superior Natural Protection as a Hurricane Hole: Its geographic position at the furthest inland point of the Manatee Pocket offers legendary protection from storm surge and wind. This has earned it a reputation as a preferred safe haven, providing owners with critical peace of mind during hurricane season.
Tranquil, Residential Ambiance: Free from the noise associated with public waterfront restaurants, bars, or rental boat operations, the marina offers a genuinely peaceful and relaxed environment. It is perfect for rest, quiet enjoyment, and focused boat maintenance or projects.
Commitment to Quality Infrastructure: From the availability of premium ValvTect treated fuels to the well-maintained docks and facilities, the marina demonstrates a commitment to quality that helps boaters protect their vessels and ensure reliable operation.
For the cruiser, seasonal visitor, or local boater seeking a “home away from home” in Stuart—a place that offers the feel and security of a private club with the accessibility of a public facility—Mariner Cay Marina stands as an exceptional and compelling choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Mariner Cay Marina truly open to the public?
Yes. Despite being located within a gated residential community, it is a commercial marina with approximately 90% of its slips available for public rental to any boater on a transient or long-term basis.
What is the process for entering the community by car?
All land-based visitors must pass through the 24/7 attended security gate at the community entrance. Simply identify yourself as a guest of the marina, and the security officer will issue a temporary vehicle pass for the duration of your visit.
Can I live aboard my boat at Mariner Cay?
Yes, liveaboards are permitted. There is a monthly liveaboard fee of $150.00, and status is subject to approval by the marina management following an application process.
What is the depth of the water at the docks?
The marina maintains a depth of 6.0 feet at mean low water at both the approach and dockside.
Do marina guests have access to the swimming pool?
Yes. Access to the community swimming pool, located near the marina bathhouse, is a privilege extended to all registered marina guests.
What types of fuel are available at the fuel dock?
The marina offers both high-quality, ethanol-free gasoline and ValvTect marine diesel, which includes additives for cleaner engine operation and fuel stability.
What is the current transient dockage rate?
The standard daily transient rate is $3.00 per foot of vessel length overall (LOA). It is always advisable to call ahead for confirmation and availability.
Is the marina pet-friendly?
Yes, the marina and community are pet-friendly. All pets must be kept on a leash whenever they are on community property, and owners are responsible for immediate cleanup.
Contact Information
Mariner Cay Marina
3901 SE St. Lucie Blvd
Stuart, FL 34997
Phone: +1 (772) 283-9990
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://marina.marinercay.org
VHF Radio: Channel 16
