Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida: 15 Top Picks for Boaters

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and amazing boating opportunities. For those who enjoy spending extended periods of time on their boats, liveaboard marinas offer a unique lifestyle. Liveaboard marinas provide a place where boat owners can live on their boats full-time, enjoying the water and all the amenities that come with living at a marina.

Florida has a variety of liveaboard marinas to choose from, each with its own set of amenities and location advantages. From marinas located in bustling cities to those situated in more remote areas, there is something for every boater. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which liveaboard marinas in Florida are the best for your needs.

Why limit yourself to marinas? If you’re an experienced boater, you should consider expanding your horizons and check out our guide to all the different places and ways you can live on a boat in Florida.

Top Liveaboard Marinas in Florida

Florida is a popular destination for liveaboards due to its warm climate, beautiful scenery, and abundance of marinas. If you want to make sure you get the besst out of oyour boating experience, check out our guide to the best spots to boat around Florida.

Here are some of the top liveaboard marinas in Florida:

Marco Island Marinak

Located on Marco Island in Southwest Florida, Marco Island Marina offers a variety of amenities to liveaboards, including a pool, a dog run, fitness center, laundry facilities, and a ship store. The marina also has a full-service boatyard and is close to many restaurants and shops. Most slips are owned by private individuals who set their own rental rates, but you can expect to pay around $960 per month for a 40-foot dock.

Twin Dolphin Marina

Twin Dolphin Marina is located in Bradenton, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a heated pool, hot tub, and multiple on-site restaurants and parks. The marina also has a well-stocked store but it’s also conveniently located near many other stores, restaurants, and businesses. They charge $330 per month for the first liveaboard person and an additional $220 per month per additional person.

Melbourne Harbor Marina

Melbourne Harbor Marina is located on Florida’s Space Coast and offers liveaboards access to a pool, fitness center, laundry facilities, and a ship store. The marina boasts being within ten blocks of more than 20 restaurants, ranging from formal dining to family-style. They charge $150 per month for liveaboards and a nominal dockage fee of around $15 per month.

Hollywood Marina

Hollywood Marina is located in Hollywood, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a pool, fitness center, laundry facilities, as well as pump-out services, and a furnished gazebo. There is a 26-foot minimum for liveaboard boats, and they charge $1.02 per foot per day + tax for liveaboard boaters.

Fort Pierce City Marina

Fort Pierce City Marina is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, just a short distance from the Bahamas, and features a state-of-the-art dock system. It’s pet friendly and features a golf course, sunrise theater, and even offers boat sales. There’s a 30 foot minimum to stay here in a liveaboard capacity and they only charge $175 a month for the first two people and an additional $25 per month for additional people (maximum of 4 people).

Riviera Dunes Marina

Riviera Dunes Marina is located in Palmetto, Florida. Liveabords will get to enjoy fresh seafood and live entertainment in close proximity to their boat at the Dockside Social Bar & Grill. Or make dinner yourself on the Social Deck, equipped with gas grills and two heated pools. They charge $27 per foot per month.

Titusville Marina

Titusville Marina is located on Florida’s Space Coast and offers both fixed and floating docks and can accommodate boats from 30 feet to 130 feet. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of a grocery store and just a few minutes away from the seashore and the Merrittt Island Wildlife Refuge. They charge $11.50 per foot per month.

Green Cove Springs Marina

Green Cove Springs Marina is located in Green Cove Springs, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a bath house with showers and a onsite laundry facilities. This marina’s main boast is their team of experienced mechanics and boat-work professionals to help with any repairs you may need. They charge a total of $245 per month for liveaboards, which includes the fees for laundry, showers, and garbage.

Point South Marina

Point South Marina is located in Panama City Beach, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a pool overlooking the bay, complimentary laundry facilities and coffee, and a serenity spa. Rates start at $17.50 per foot per month.

Harbortown Marina

Harbortown Marina is located in Fort Pierce, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a heated pool, a marina store with snacks, equipment, clothing, and supplies, washers and dryers, and even a dog run for your pets. What’s more, you can watch rocket launches right from your slip! The marina is also close to many restaurants and shops. Rates start at just $10.10 per foot with a contract.

Longboat Key Club Moorings

Longboat Key Club Moorings is located in Longboat Key, Florida. This is the largest resort marina on the west coast of Florida with 291 slips capable of accommodating vessels up to 150 feet in length. In additional to their 24-hour manned guard gate and a fuel dock equipped with pump-out services, guests can enjoy exceptional amenities like slip electricity, cable television, and shower facilities. They charge $44 per foot per month.

Pasadena Marina

Pasadena Marina is located in St. Petersburg, Florida, in a serene and beautiful setting nestled within a well-protected deep water basin on Boca Ciega Bay. It’s renowned for its cleanliness and impeccable maintenance. With 125 full-service slips available, including both covered and open options, Pasadena Marina can accommodate boats up to 55 feet in length. They charge about $185 per month to liveaboard, but they adjust rates depending on your boat, the number of guests, how many vehicles you’ll have, etc.

Gulfport Municipal Marina

Gulfport Municipal Marina is located in Gulfport, Florida, and features a concrete seawall that encloses its basin, providing one hundred ninety-two wet slips accessible to the public. Additionally, the marina offers ship store equipped with restrooms and showers, a public boat ramp with seventy parking spaces for boat trailers, two fueling stations, multiple fishing docks, serene walking trails, a dock walk, and a kayak launch area. They charge $337.00 per month to liveaboard.

Ortega River Marina

Ortega River Marina is located in Jacksonville, Florida, and offers liveaboards access to a pool, private bathrooms, washers and dryers, a waterfront grill and picnic area, and complimentary bikes. They charge $18 per foot per month plus $40 for 30 Amp service or $65 for 50 Amp service.

Opal Key Resort and Marina

Opal Key Resort and Marina is located in Key West, Florida, a mere stone’s throw away from Duval Street in Old Town Key West. This 37-slip marina can accommodate boats from 25 to 200 feet. Ameneties include a pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, and onsite an restaurant and bars. They charge $7 per foot per per day.

Comparison Chart

Marina	Location	Amenities	Liveaboard Fee
Marco Island Marina	Marco Island	Pool, dog run, fitness center, ship store	~ $960 per month (Private owners set rates)
Twin Dolphin Marina	Bradenton	Heated pool, hot tub, on-site restaurants	$330 per month, $220 per additional person
Melbourne Harbor Marina	Melbourne	Pool, fitness center, laundry, ship store	$165 per month
Hollywood Marina	Hollywood	Pool, fitness center, laundry, pump-out services	$1.02 per foot per day
Fort Pierce City Marina	Fort Pierce	Golf course, theater, boat sales	$175 per month, $25 per additional person
Riviera Dunes Marina	Palmetto	Gas grills, heated pools, seafood, live entertainment	$27 per foot per month
Titusville Marina	Titusville	Fixed and floating docks, walking distance to stores	$11.50 per foot per month
Green Cove Springs Marina	Green Cove Spring	Bath house, laundry facilities, boat-work professionals	$245 per month
Point South Marina	Panama City Beach	Pool, complimentary laundry, serenity spa	$17.50 per foot per month
Harbortown Marina	Fort Pierce	Heated pool, marina store, dog run, rocket launches	$10.10 per foot with contract
Longboat Key Club Moorings	Longboat Key	Guard gate, fuel dock, slip electricity, cable TV	$44 per foot per month
Pasadena Marina	St. Petersburg	Clean, well-maintained, deep water basin	$185 per month
Gulfport Municipal Marina	Gulfport	Seawall, ship store, boat ramp, fishing docks	$337.00 per month
Ortega River Marina	Jacksonville	Pool, private bathrooms, waterfront grill	$18 per foot per month
Opal Key Resort and Marina	Key West	Pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, onsite restaurant	$7 per foot per day

Amenities to Look for in a Liveaboard Marina

When choosing a liveaboard marina in Florida, it’s important to consider the amenities offered. Here are some amenities to look for:

Security

Security is an important consideration for liveaboard marinas. Look for marinas with gated access, security cameras, and regular patrols. A secure marina will give you peace of mind, whether you’re on board or away from your boat.

Laundry Facilities

Laundry facilities are a must for liveaboard marinas. Look for marinas with clean, well-maintained laundry rooms that offer washers and dryers. Some marinas even offer laundry services.

Fitness Center

Some liveaboard marinas offer fitness centers with exercise equipment and classes. If staying fit is important to you, look for marinas with these amenities.

Grocery Store

Some marinas have a grocery store or market on site, making it easy to stock up on essentials without leaving the marina.

Coffee Bar

For coffee lovers, a marina with a coffee bar is a great perk. Some marinas even have cafes or restaurants on site.

Private Bathrooms

Private bathrooms are a luxury for liveaboard boaters. Look for marinas that offer private bathrooms for each slip, or at least a private shower and toilet facility.

Pump-out Station

A pump-out station is a must for liveaboard boaters. Look for marinas with easy access to a pump-out station to make waste disposal easy and convenient.

Security Cameras

Security cameras can provide an extra level of security for your boat. Look for marinas with cameras that monitor the docks and parking areas.

Bike Rentals

Some marinas offer bike rentals, making it easy to explore the surrounding area without having to drive.

Diesel

If you have a diesel engine, look for marinas that offer diesel fuel on site. This can save you time and hassle when you need to refuel.

Deposit

Some marinas require a deposit when you sign a contract. Make sure you understand the deposit policy before you sign.

Cable

If you want to stay connected, look for marinas that offer cable TV and internet access.

Location

The location of the marina is an important factor to consider. It should be easily accessible and close to the amenities you need. It should also be in a safe and secure area.

Budget

Liveaboard marinas vary in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a marina. You should also factor in the cost of electricity, water, and other utilities.

Pet-Friendly

If you have a pet, it’s important to choose a marina that is pet-friendly. Check the marina’s pet policy and make sure it meets your needs.

Dock Amenities

The dock amenities are important for your comfort and convenience. Check if the marina has laundry facilities, showers, and other amenities you need.

Restaurants

If you enjoy dining out, consider choosing a marina that has restaurants nearby. This will make it easy for you to enjoy a meal without having to travel far.

Entertainment

If you enjoy entertainment, choose a marina that is close to entertainment venues. This will make it easy for you to enjoy a night out without having to travel far.

Climate

The climate of the area is an important factor to consider. Make sure the marina is in an area with a climate that suits your needs.

Attractions

If you enjoy sightseeing, choose a marina that is close to attractions. This will make it easy for you to explore the area without having to travel far.

Customer Service

Good customer service is important for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Choose a marina that has a good reputation for customer service.

Electricity Costs

Electricity costs can vary between marinas, so make sure you factor this into your budget. Check the marina’s electricity rates and make sure they are affordable for you.

Lease

Make sure you understand the terms of the lease before signing it. Check the length of the lease, the renewal options, and any other important details.

What Are Florida Liveaboard Marinas Like?

If you’re considering the liveaboard lifestyle in Florida, it’s important to understand what liveaboard marinas are like. Liveaboard marinas are essentially communities where boaters live on their boats full-time or for extended periods. These marinas offer a unique and enjoyable way of life, but it’s important to know what to expect before making the transition.

In Florida, liveaboard marinas come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from small, rustic marinas to large, luxurious ones. Some marinas offer basic amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and a mail center, while others provide resort-style amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and restaurants.

It’s important to consider what amenities you need and want in a liveaboard marina, as well as what you can afford.

Another consideration is the location of the marina. Florida offers many beautiful and diverse areas for liveaboard marinas, from the bustling cities of Miami and St. Petersburg to boating around the laid-back Keys and scenic Gulf Coast.

Depending on your preferences, you may want to choose a marina that offers easy access to your favorite activities, such as fishing, boating, or exploring the nearby towns and attractions.

When it comes to living on a boat in a marina, there are some challenges to consider. For example, living in close quarters with others can require a level of flexibility and adaptability.

Additionally, the Florida climate can be hot and humid, and weather conditions can impact boating and water activities. However, many liveaboard boaters find that the rewards of the lifestyle far outweigh the challenges.

One of the most appealing aspects of liveaboard marinas in Florida is the sense of community they offer. Boaters who live on their boats often share a love of the water and boating lifestyle, and many marinas host social events and activities for residents.

Whether it’s a potluck dinner, a sunset cocktail hour, or a group fishing trip, liveaboard marinas provide ample opportunities for socializing and making new friends.

When choosing a marina, consider the amenities, location, and community feel, as well as the challenges and rewards of living on a boat. With some research and careful consideration, you can find the perfect liveaboard marina to call home.

Preparing for Storms at a Liveaboard Marina

Living on a boat in Florida can be an amazing experience, but it also comes with the risk of hurricanes and tropical storms. Therefore, it is essential to be prepared for storms while living on a liveaboard marina.

One important thing to consider is the marina’s location. If the marina is located in a high-risk hurricane zone, it is important to have a hurricane plan in place. This plan should include securing the boat, removing any loose items, and evacuating if necessary.

Another important consideration is the boat’s insurance policy. It is essential to have adequate insurance coverage that includes hurricane and storm damage. It is also important to know what the policy covers and what it does not cover.

It is also important to stay informed about the weather. Pay attention to weather reports and updates, and be prepared to act quickly if necessary. In addition, it is a good idea to have a weather radio or other reliable source of information on hand in case of power outages.

When a storm is approaching, it is important to take action quickly. This may include securing the boat, removing any loose items, and evacuating if necessary. It is also important to have a plan for where to go and what to do in case of an evacuation.

By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, liveaboard boaters can enjoy their time on the water while staying safe and protected.

Frequently Asked Question

Conclusion

In conclusion, Florida offers a wide range of liveaboard marinas that cater to the needs and preferences of boaters seeking a unique and enjoyable lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a marina with resort-style amenities or a smaller, more rustic setting, there is something for everyone in Florida. Some of the top liveaboard marinas in Florida include Opal Key Resort and Marina in Key West, The Fort Pierce City Marina, and Pasadena Marina in St. Petersburg. Each marina offers its own set of amenities, location advantages, and community feel.

When chlkfuel, and cable TV/internet access. The location of the marina, climate, nearby attractions, and customer service are also important factors to consider.

Living on a boat in a marina can come with its challenges, such as living in close quarters and dealing with the Florida climate. However, the sense of community and the opportunity to engage in boating and water activities make the lifestyle rewarding for many boaters.

It is essential for liveaboard boaters to be prepared for storms and hurricanes, considering the marina’s location, having a hurricane plan, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage. Staying informed about weather conditions and taking prompt action when a storm approaches is crucial for the safety and protection of liveaboard boaters.

Ultimately, by carefully researching and considering the amenities, location, community feel, and storm preparedness of liveaboard marinas, boaters can find the perfect place to call home and enjoy the unique liveaboard lifestyle offered in Florida.