Where to go in Marathon?

[MAC-A-TAC]

The wife and I will be taking our trailerable boat to Marathon in the Florida Keys the 2nd week in February to get out of our Canadian winter for a while. Perhaps for 2 weeks. I've got Claiborne S. Young's (RIP) "Cruising the Florida Keys" book, but would like recommendations on any marinas that have decent ramps and would be able to accommodate the truck and trailer. Price is a bit of a consideration.

The plan would include some cruising and anchoring out, as well as time at marinas.

Thank you in advance.

[capngeo]

There isn't much of anything reasonable in the Keys. Not that there aren't free ramps, but I sure wouldn't leave my truck there!

[MAC-A-TAC]

Good point capngeo. Yes security is an issue. It would be hard to get home again to the ice and snow ... then again We'd be stuck in the Keys ... perhaps there's an upside to this.

[AnchorageGuy]

I don't know of any of the marinas in Marathon having a boat ramp. There are afew public boat ramps but no parking for any length of time. Many folks that trailer a boat down find one of the local hotels or motels with docks to be used by their guests. You launch your boat at the public ramp and then park the vehicle and trailer at the hotel/motel. When you book your room, they can tell you where the closest ramp is located. I believe Sombrero Resort and Lighthouse Marina has their own boat ramp and docks for use. Public boat ramps are noted on charts for the area. Chuck

[MAC-A-TAC]

Thanks Chuck. More food for thought.

[fjwiley1]

Holiday Inn Express has dockage, across the street is a double wide concrete ramp,Free. Gulf/Bay Side.

There is a free ramp on the back side of the airport, south end. Gulf/Bay Side.

Behind Publix turn towards Sombreo is a small marina with a ramp. Not sure of current fee nor of the canal will clear your boat length. You'll pass through Boot Key Mooring Field going out. Obvious on Atlantic.

You might call Jolly Roger Camping Park at Duck Key. They had trailer parking but may be for those camping.

As others have said, there are a couple more at Marathon Free as well as a couple more that have Fees and parking.

You should not exclude Bahia Honda just past the 7 Mile Bridge that has a big camp ground facility as well as ramp and storage.

From Key Largo down you will encounter multiple opportunities.

Enjoy your trip and our State.

Life is good if you Keepa Smilin.... 😄





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[Cap Erict3]

You might want to consider Calusa Marina in Goodland. Easy sail to the Keys and some of the best rates around. If nothing else good place to leave ur truck and do Marathon.

[MAC-A-TAC]

As usual people on the forum are always very helpful. Thank You.

[Hudson Force]

Take a look at Mangrove Marina in Tavernier too. Their location would be great. I think they have all you need, but the ramp; however, they lift and launch many boats from trailers.

[Peter1949]

As noted above
Bahia Honda state park
Give them a call for rates
And most important your draft.



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