Chamber, Port Sanibel Marina celebrate ribbon-cutting
A hub for all things boat- and watersports-related just off-island, the Port Sanibel Marina in Fort Myers officially celebrated its ongoing comeback with a SanCap Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting on March 26 at its new boat barn.
The marina opened its docks and ramp to government agencies and their subcontractors immediately after Hurricane Ian, but it was unable to open to the public until January of 2023. By that point, the marina, which had been without power for months, was able to clean up the mess Ian left. In the meantime, it provided dockage, services and full use of the marina starting the day after the storm. It ran logistics; shuttled people, workers and supplies; and provided free fuel for emergency services providers.
“Most of our docks were washed away, and the ship store and fuel dock were completely flooded,” General Manager JD Miner said. “All the boats on ground level were floating away and obstructing roadways. Wind and water damage prevented access to 135 boats in our first barn. Lighthouse Waterfront Cafe and our retail store both sustained water and wind damage and closed for a month or so after the storm.”
The marina complex has built back with more wind resistance, and the new boat barn opened in December for 145 boats up to 40 feet. The marina currently has 99 wet slips and 135 dry slips, with the additional 145 dry slips still under construction. The complex also offers boat and paddlecraft rentals, charters, and excursions.
“Port Sanibel Marina was an invaluable partner in the earliest stages of hurricane recovery,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “Rescue operations ran out of the marina and local, state and federal rescue, law enforcement, and wildlife agencies and power restoration companies used the facilities. We thank them and wish them the best as they continue their own rebuilding.”
The Port Sanibel Marina is at 14341 Port Comfort Road, Fort Myers.