MARCO ISLAND

• USMRK
• Latitude: 25.9608
• Longitude: -81.7119
• Gulf of Mexico
• Marina in US

Location: US

Marco Island Marine Port - Overview & Specifications

Location: Marco Island is located in Collier County, Florida, United States. It is situated in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 20 miles south of Naples, and is part of the Ten Thousand Islands area.

General Description: Marco Island is a renowned resort destination known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and affluent community. The marine port facilities here are primarily oriented towards recreational boating, tourism, and small-scale commercial endeavors rather than major industrial shipping.

Port Facilities:

1. Marinas:

   • Marco Island Marina:

     • Offers slip rentals for various sizes of boats.
     • Provides amenities like fuel, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and restrooms.
     • On-site services include maintenance, repairs, and boat rentals.

   • Rose Marina:

     • A comprehensive facility providing services for both transient and local boaters.
     • Features include slip rentals, boat sales, storage, fuel docks, and a ship’s store.
     • Offers charter services for fishing and sightseeing tours.

2. Emergency and Support Services:

   • Coast Guard presence to ensure safety and offer search and rescue operations.
   • Local marine patrols to enforce maritime laws and provide assistance.

3. Commercial Operations:

   • Limited commercial fishing activity.
   • Tour operators offering wildlife tours, shelling expeditions, and other eco-tourism activities.

4. Recreational Facilities:

   • Multiple marinas cater to private yachts and smaller boats.
   • Charter services for deep-sea fishing, leisure cruises, and water sports.
   • Public and private docks for transient boaters.

Navigation and Access:

• Approach and Harbor:

  • The main approach to Marco Island is through the Capri Pass in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • The channel is well-marked with navigational aids, ensuring safe passage for vessels.
  • The sheltered harbor provides protection from typical sea conditions in the Gulf.

• Tides and Current:

  • The area experiences tidal fluctuations that should be considered when planning docking or navigation.
  • Tidal range might affect smaller boats during low tide periods.

• Depths:

  • Most marina slips can accommodate recreational boats with varying drafts, generally up to 7-10 feet.
  • Regular dredging activities ensure navigational channels remain accessible.

Environmental Considerations:

• Marco Island and the surrounding waters are home to sensitive ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrasses, and a variety of marine wildlife.
• Boaters are expected to follow environmental regulations to protect these habitats, such as no-wake zones and manatee protection areas.

Tourism and Economic Impact:

• Marco Island’s marine port facilities significantly contribute to the local economy, with thriving tourism that supports hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses.
• Activities like boating, fishing, and eco-tours attract thousands of visitors annually.

Development and Future Plans:

• Potential upgrades and expansions to accommodate growing recreational boating demand.
• Enhancements in infrastructure to support better waste management, environmental protection, and boater amenities.

Marco Island's marine port may not be a major commercial shipping hub, but its well-maintained facilities and strategic location make it an integral part of Florida's recreational boating and tourism industry.