FORT MYERS, FL – October 14, 2025 — (From Marina World Magazine)

Marina World Consultant Editor Carol Fulford speaks to the President of Golden Marine Systems Mike Shanley about ongoing developments in the US marina industry and how the company is adapting to changes and trends despite market challenges.

How would you describe the current state of play in the US marina industry?

The current state of play in the US marina industry reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape shaped by rising demand, ongoing infrastructure upgrades and increasing emphasis on climate resilience and premium services. From the perspective of dock manufacturing, sales and marina development, several key trends define today’s market.

We have seen strong demand with limited inventory since the post-COVID boating boom, as well as sustained higher-than-normal demand for wet slips, dry storage and marina access. However, supply has not kept pace, especially in high-demand coastal and resort regions, resulting in long waitlists at many marinas. This supply gap presents clear opportunities for new marina developments and dock infrastructure expansion.

Many marinas across the US were built decades ago and are now reaching or exceeding their useful lifespan. Owners and operators are increasingly seeking modern, low-maintenance solutions, fueling growth in the sale of floating dock systems, aluminum gangways and modular upgrades. The shift is toward durable, hurricane-resilient dock systems that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Coastal resilience and sustainability is also a concern. Climate change and extreme weather events like hurricanes have placed pressure on marina owners to build back stronger and smarter. Floating dock systems that withstand storm surges and flooding are now in high demand. Manufacturers that offer engineered resilience, such as high freeboard docks, energy-efficient features and eco-friendly materials, are well-positioned.

The evolution of marinas as lifestyle destinations is another aspect. Many marinas are evolving from basic utility hubs into upscale lifestyle destinations with integrated amenities such as restaurants, retail, boat clubs and concierge services. This trend supports increased investment in premium dock designs, covered slips and specialty features like kayak launches and boat lifts.

Furthermore, the industry is seeing an influx of capital from private equity firms and real estate investment groups who view marinas as high-potential assets with recurring revenue. This is accelerating both new marina development and consolidation, leading to more standardized operations and increased demand for turnkey dock solutions from reliable manufacturers.

Finally, we are seeing greater technological integration. Digital platforms for slip reservations, boat sharing and asset management are reshaping operations. Dock manufacturers and marina developers are beginning to integrate smart dock technologies – power pedestals with metering, security systems, lighting and wireless connectivity – to meet modern boater expectations.

In summary, the US marina industry is in a growth phase marked by opportunity, innovations and modernization. For dock manufacturers and marina developers, this is a prime moment to lead with resilient, modular and service-oriented solutions that align with both the evolving needs of boaters and the long-term vision of waterfront asset owners.

What are the major current challenges facing US dock manufacturers, and how are you dealing with these?

One of the most significant challenges currently facing US dock manufacturers is the rising cost and inconsistent supply of raw materials, particularly aluminum and steel, due to ongoing and looming tariffs. These materials are foundational to high-performance floating docks and gangway systems, and the increased cost pressures are impacting pricing stability, lead times and project forecasting across the industry.

At Golden Marine Systems, we are addressing these challenges through several proactive strategies. Firstly, we’ve deepened relationships with our domestic suppliers and expanded our sourcing network to maintain more consistent access to key materials. Where possible, we are purchasing materials in larger quantities to secure better pricing and insulate against sudden tariff-driven increases. We have also adjusted our production timelines and inventory strategy to allow greater flexibility. This includes maintaining stock on critical components and forecasting future needs based on customer demand and upcoming projects.

We believe in being upfront with our clients about potential pricing shifts and lead time changes, and for this reason we value transparent client communication. We work closely with marina developers and contractors to lock in pricing early and offer flexible options when needed, including phased installations or alternate material options when practical.

Finally, as a Florida-based manufacturer, we remain committed to producing our systems in the US, which not only supports local jobs but allows us to maintain higher quality control and faster response times, even in turbulent supply conditions.

While material tariffs and supply volatility are real challenges, we view them as manageable obstacles. By staying agile, transparent and customer-focused, we continue to deliver premium, hurricane-resilient dock systems that meet the evolving needs of the marina industry.

Is the trend for increased popularity of boat lifts continuing and, if so, is there a specific area – perhaps state, region or type of marina – that shows particular growth?

Firstly, there is a growing trend in boat lift marinas driven by efficiency and return on investment. They are experiencing steady growth, particularly in Florida and the southeastern US, where boating activity is high, real estate is competitive and marina operators are seeking more efficient, profitable models.

It is also important to recognize that customer convenience is driving demand. Modern boaters want immediate, hassle-free access to their vessels. Boat lifts allow users to launch and retrieve their boats in minutes, eliminating the need to schedule forklift service, wait in lines or deal with haul-outs. This self-service approach appeals to a new generation of boat owners who value autonomy, speed and convenience – especially in premium, high-traffic marinas.

Reduced staffing requirements is another trend. Traditional dry stack or forklift marinas rely heavily on trained staff to operate lifting machinery and coordinate vessel movements. In contrast, boat lift marinas require far fewer personnel, especially when slips are individually managed by the boat owner or monitored remotely. This significantly reduces operating costs related to labor, training, insurance and liability.

Marina owners also see a quick return on investment. Boat lift slips command premium pricing due to the added convenience and protection they offer. At the same time, the capital expenditure on a lift system – especially when installed on a floating dock – can be lower than constructing or expanding a dry stack facility. With higher slip rates and lower operational overhead, many marina owners see full return on investment within 18 to 24 months, sometimes sooner in high-demand areas.

There is concentrated growth in Florida and the southeastern US. Florida continues to lead the trend, not only because of its massive boating population, but also due to its climate, year-round boating activity and density of waterfront communities. The concept is also spreading rapidly along the southeast US coastline – in states like Georgia, the Carolinas and parts of the Gulf Coast – where marina owners are seeking scalable, hurricane-resilient solutions that maximize slip revenue without requiring major structural expansions.

The growth of boat lift marinas is a direct result of their ability to enhance customer satisfaction, reduce operational complexity and increase profitability. As coastal property values climb and boating demand continues to rise, the efficiency, flexibility and return on investment of boat lift marina models make them increasingly attractive – especially in the southeast where these factors align perfectly with local market conditions.

Have you made any improvements and changes to your product lines of docks, boat lifts and accessories? How have these products improved as a result?

Yes, Golden is continuously improving and innovating our docks, boat lifts and accessories based on field experience, customer needs and market trends – all while maintaining a competitive edge.

Recent advancements include enhanced structural integrity through upgraded materials, improved corrosion resistance and design refinements that allow for easier installation and maintenance. As a result, our products offer greater durability, longer service life and superior performance in demanding marine environments.

Could you outline some ongoing or recently completed projects?

Golden is currently manufacturing and supplying dock and gangway systems for three major projects: City of Clearwater Beach, Tarpon Point Marina and Sunshine RV Resort & Marina. These projects collectively represent approximately 62,000 sq ft (5,760 sq m) of dock space and feature a mix of Golden Marine Systems’ 850 and 950 Series floating dock systems – known for their strength, durability and modular design.

In addition, Golden recently completed phase two of MarineMax Stuart, a premier marina-boat lift combination. This facility now includes over 100 Golden boat lifts, with lift capacities reaching 56,000lbs (25,400kg), as well as 17,000 sq ft (1,579 sq m) of GMS 9 Series fixed docks. This project highlights Golden’s ability to deliver fully integrated marina infrastructure – combining cutting-edge lift systems with heavy-duty fixed dock solutions to meet the demands of high-performance boating environments.

FORT MYERS, FL – July 28, 2025 — Golden Marine Systems has successfully completed Phase One of the new dock system at Tarpon Point Marina in Cape Coral, FL marking a major step forward in the waterfront property’s hurricane-resilient redevelopment. The project comes in response to the failure of the marina’s previous concrete dock system, which proved too rigid to endure the wind and wave energy from recent storm events.

Golden was selected for the project based on its proven track record of survivability in hurricane conditions. The new system features Golden’s 950 Series Double Track Aluminum Dock System, topped with brick paver decking—a combination that offers both stability and standout aesthetics.

The previous concrete docks couldn’t flex with the wave action, and as a result, they suffered significant damage. Golden’s system offers the flexibility and strength needed to protect the marinas investment and provide peace of mind during storm season.

Golden’s aluminum-framed 950 Series provides critical flexibility under load, helping the system move with storm-driven water instead of resisting it. The brick paver decking adds substantial mass for improved stability, while enhancing the overall appearance of the marina.

“We’re proud to complete Phase One of this important project,” said Michael Shanley, President of Golden Marine Systems. “This design reflects the perfect balance between performance and presentation. With hurricane resilience and high-end finishes, the new docks set a new standard for coastal marina infrastructure.”

Phase Two of the Tarpon Point Marina redevelopment is scheduled to begin shortly after the new year.

BRADENTON BEACH – The city pier and the floating docks were heavily damaged following Hurricane Milton. At the Oct. 17 Community Redevelopment Meeting with an eye on getting ferry service back for Island residents and workers, the board approved up to $500,000 for repairs.

“One of the goals he (Manatee County Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Elliott Falcione) has isn’t for the tourism component so much but for displaced individuals and workers who are trying to access the Island without all of the traffic backup,” City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at the CRA meeting. “This would be something to try to make everybody’s lives a little bit easier for the people who work here and live here to get back onto the Island.”

Perry said the city pier sustained approximately $90,000 of damage.

“It’s largely what I’m going to call cosmetics,” she said. “The pier is structurally sound, it was handrails, boards, possibly a brace or two, but because we were putting the improved bracing system in prior to the hurricane it really did protect that structure,” she said.

She then outlined the damages to the floating dock.

“The piece that manufactured on what I would call part two of the project is in great shape. Golden is the one that manufactured that,” Perry said. “The other portion that was manufactured out of Barcelona is not faring quite as well. Now in fairness, it could be the materials. It could be the fact that we had a tremendous amount of wrecked boats under the floating dock.”

She said those boats included a 42-foot boat. Within that was another boat and underneath those, multiple sunken vessels.

A discussion with Falcione about the possibility of a floating barge was rejected as he didn’t feel it would work particularly well and would require a ramp, Perry said.

“We know financially we’re not in a place where we can drop the money. I believe the price quote that I saw was about $350,000 to redo the floating dock,” Perry said. “Elliott has been looking at ways to market the city and, if we’re able to do this quickly and get the ferry up and running, there is certainly financial assistance to make that happen.”

Perry outlined a discussion she had with Steve Porter of Duncan Seawall about options.

“There was a talk with Steve – do we salvage what’s there from Barcelona and try to work with that? The plan is to salvage what we can, but the system itself he feels is an inferior product and by the time you continue to do these repairs over and over, seeing how well the Golden (Golden Marine Systems) product held out, we are going to reuse that,” she said. “That is 100% salvageable. Even the boards are in good shape. We think it’s probably wiser to spend a little bit more and just get Golden to rip out the first part.”

She said the rollers and floats on the floating dock are salvageable.

Porter committed to getting the work started quickly, Perry said. By the end of the month, he expects to have something for the ferry to operate off of.

“What I would like is a motion that authorizes me and Chief Cosby to make the necessary repairs to the city pier and floating dock with funds to be determined by the city treasurer and ISC (the contractor who manages the FEMA cost reimbursement paperwork) as well as the TDC (Tourist Development Council) at a cost not to exceed $500,000,” Perry said. “That is the motion that I’m looking for so I can get bodies back onto this Island, especially those that don’t have cars. We know that about 80% of the cars were destroyed out here. If we can do anything to help our people come back and forth I think we should do that.”

Mayor John Chappie made the motion to approve and it was seconded by CRA member Jan Vosburgh. The motion passed unanimously.

Following the vote, CRA member Debbie Scaccianoce questioned why boats were allowed to be at the pier during a storm.

“We can’t deny somebody safe port. If they come tie up to your dock and they think it’s safe we can’t do anything about it,” CRA chair Ralph Cole said. “In a storm like that, there could have been boats that came from across the bay or the Seafood Shack. Boats were moving every which way and eventually a lot of them hit something and sank.”

“In the past, we’ve had boats that have come up from Sarasota Bay and crashed into our structure,” Perry said. “Boats are the most destructive force. It’s the vessels that are causing the most damage every single time. And there’s no way to stop it.”

Cole said Chief Cosby and the police department have done a great job getting rid of derelict vessels and there are very few left to be disposed of.

“That wind was blowing stuff every which way,” Cole said. “We’re lucky to have what we have left.”

The Horizon Foundation, Horizon Council and Lee County Economic Development Office have announced the finalists for the 2024 Industry Appreciation Awards.

The Industry Appreciation Awards celebrate Lee County businesses that drive the local economy, employ our workforce and shape their industries. Winners will be announced at an awards luncheon Friday, Oct. 25, at Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers.

One winner will be recognized from among the three finalists in the following categories:

• Large Business of the Year: B&I Contractors, Liberty Aluminum Company and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank
• Small Business of the Year: Fire & Rice, LSI Companies, Inc. and TenderCare Pet Salon
• Diverse Business of the Year: Ferrer’s Custom Carpentry and Remodeling Services, International Roofing, LLC and Pirozzi Organizational Development Solutions, LLC
• Supplier Diversity Award: Chris-Tel Construction, Enterprise Mobility and Florida Blue
• Innovative Technology Award: 2D Wellness, Inc., B&I Contractors and MY Shower Door
• Small Manufacturer of the Year: Aerox Aviation Oxygen Systems, Custom Packaging & Products and S4J Manufacturing Services, Inc.
• Large Manufacturer of the Year: D3 Glass, Drake Ready Mix and Golden Boat Lifts & Marine Systems
• Partnership Award: Alair Sanibel, Peyko Venue and Tunaskin Aquatic Apparel
• Community Spotlight Award: Chapman Insurance Group, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and Titan Contracting

“These companies are outstanding representations of the diverse, quality businesses that operate here in Lee County,” said Dr. Guido Minaya, chairman of the Horizon Council and CEO of Minaya Learning Global Solutions. “Each one of them is highly deserving of the award for which they have been nominated.”

The event at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers, starts with networking at 10 a.m. with luncheon and awards at 11 a.m. Tickets for the 2024 Industry Appreciation Awards are $50 each and available online at Industry-AppreciationAwards.com. Tables of eight and 10 are also available. Registration closes today, Oct. 18.

READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE.

After being nearly destroyed when Hurricane Ian made landfall in September 2022, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, is open for the 2024 boating season. The Category 5 hurricane caused widespread destruction to countless businesses, residences and communities in western Florida, making 2023 a year of rebuilding. Faced with an abundance of necessary repairs, Pink Shell owner Boykin Management Co. completed its initial hotel remediation, then immediately called up Golden Marine Systems to rebuild the marina.

Evaluating the Damage
For days following the storm, search and rescue efforts took the place of ordinary operations for most southern Florida businesses. At Pink Shell resort, Ian’s 19-foot storm surge pummeled the first and second floors but failed to compromise the structural integrity of the iconic hotel. In no time, Pink Shell opened its doors to provide accommodation for relief workers, contractors and some displaced residents. On the mainland, Golden Marine Systems’ Fort Myers facility sustained damage as well. After well-being checks to confirm the safety of its employees were conducted, Golden was up and running a week after the storm. “We had the typical roof damage and bay doors blown out,” said Mike Shanley, president of Golden Marine Systems. “Very quickly everything was boarded up and protected until it could be repaired.”

Golden went right back to work manufacturing boat lifts and docks. “Within a matter of days, [Pink Shell] called me to rebuild the marina,” Shanley remembers. “Within a day or two, I got the numbers together, they signed, and we went to work.”

Dave O’Connor, manager of the Pink Shell marina, said all but five of the marina’s 33 original steel piles survived the storm. Two days after the storm, we didn’t have anything except the pilings,” he recalled.

While only the five piles needed replacement, the new docking system would need to meet precise manufacturing specs to fit the existing piles. Tolerance for the new docking system to match the existing piles was 1/8 of an inch. “We had a center point survey done to identify the center of the piles and positions,” Shanley said. “Then our engineers went to work and designed the docks, and we hit them spot on.”

To expedite the project, the new docks matched the same footprint as the original dock layout. Golden replaced the floating main dock and 13 fingers for a total of 41 slips that will serve mostly transient boaters. “We didn’t make any modifications,” O’Connor said. “It’s the exact same footprint.” Maintaining the original marina footprint avoided re-permitting, which allowed construction to begin immediately.

The dock installation was performed by long-time Golden dealer RJ Gorman Marine Construction, based out of Panama City. “Golden did an outstanding job of fabricating the new docks to fit around the undamaged piles,” said Jared Gorman, co-owner of RJ Gorman. “The installation went perfectly.” With the dock system installed successfully, the full opening of the marina waited only for electrical panels, which O’Connor noted, along with switch gears, had been scarce due to local demand following the storm. The marina is currently fully operational and enjoying the best of the 2024 season.

Protection Against Future Storms
The new docking system incorporates the Golden 850 Series Single Track System and Golden 100 Series Commercial Gangways, built of 6061-T6 aluminum to ensure strength against future storms. Proprietary features include the Integrated E-Tracks, which allow the marina to add and move cleats as needed for specific vessel sizes, while Flexi-Block connectors reduce dock noise as sections respond to wave activity.

O’Connor expressed sincere gratitude to the Golden team for their work. “Special thanks goes to Mike Shanley and the Golden production crew for their dedication, which facilitated the transformation of our space into a fully operational marina within 14 months, just in time for the season,” O’Connor said. “Their commitment to our project was much appreciated.”

In the rebuilding after Ian’s landfall, Golden was awarded four other large marina rehabilitation projects in the area. “The three marinas that we did have on Fort Myers beach all survived, so that testimony sold itself,” Shanley said.
Golden also assisted in reopening other Fort Myers Beach facilities, Moss Marine and Gulf Star Marina, rebuilding damaged gangways and dock sections. Federal agencies then utilized the marinas during search and rescue efforts on outer islands and coastal areas. “The response from local, state and federal was pretty intense,” Shanley added, “the best I’ve ever seen.”

READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE.

Golden Marine Systems, a prominent provider of marine infrastructure solutions, offers crucial guidance to prepare marinas for hurricane season. Drawing from extensive experience in the marine industry, the company emphasizes proactive measures to mitigate potential damage and ensure safety.

Hurricanes pose significant threats to coastal communities, making marinas especially vulnerable. To assist marina operators and boat owners, Golden Marine Systems advises:

Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan: Create a detailed plan outlining procedures for securing the marina, evacuating vessels, and ensuring personnel safety. Regularly review and update the plan based on past experiences.

Secure Infrastructure: Inspect docks, piers, and other structures for wear or damage. Reinforce weak points and secure loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

Secure Vessels: Ensure all vessels are properly secured with adequate lines and fenders. Consider relocating boats to safer locations or hauling them out of the water.

Remove Potential Hazards: Clear debris, including equipment, trash, and vegetation, to prevent hazards during storms.

Communicate Effectively: Maintain open communication with marina tenants, local authorities, and emergency agencies. Keep stakeholders informed and provide guidance on evacuation procedures.

Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay informed about approaching storms by monitoring forecasts from the National Hurricane Center and local authorities. Take proactive measures based on the latest information.

Prepare for Power Outages: Develop contingency plans for power outages, including backup generators and emergency lighting. Ensure essential equipment remains operational during power loss.

Stay Informed and Flexible: Remain vigilant throughout hurricane season and adjust plans based on evolving weather conditions and guidance from authorities.

Michael Shanley, President of Golden Marine Systems, stresses the importance of proper preparation for minimizing hurricane impacts on marinas and ensuring safety. The company remains dedicated to supporting marinas and coastal communities in preparing for and mitigating hurricane impacts.

During Hurricane Ian’s devastation in Southwest Florida, Golden Marine Systems’ over-engineered products, like Golden Boat Lifts and marinas, withstood the destruction. The company single-handedly rebuilt marinas, restoring Fort Myers Beach to its natural beauty.

For a free Hurricane Preparation Plan for marinas, please visit goldenmarinesystems.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Marina-Hurricane-Prep.pdf

Golden Marine Systems, a leading provider of innovative marine solutions based in Fort Myers, Florida, proudly announces the completion of the ‘B’ dock construction project for Marine Max Pensacola. Renowned for its exceptional specifications and seamless execution, the project underscores Golden Marine Systems’ commitment to excellence in marine infrastructure.

The newly constructed dock, extending an impressive 358 feet, boasts side-to-tie functionality and comprises 19 slips designed to accommodate vessels of up to 70 feet in length. Notably, the addition of a 100-foot fuel dock, featuring custom flotation tailored for a ship store, enhances the dock’s versatility and utility for boaters.

Key components of the project include Golden Marine Systems’ state-of-the-art 850 Series single track system, renowned for its reliability and performance. Further enhancing durability and aesthetics, the dock features Endeck PVC decking, ensuring enduring resilience against the elements. Additionally, the incorporation of 12″ GMS adjustable cleats ensures secure mooring, while pile guides and finger piers enhance functionality and safety for boaters.

GCG Construction, a reputable general contractor based in Fort Myers, Florida, played a pivotal role in overseeing execution, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Furthermore, installation management was expertly handled by Mid-Coast Marine, guaranteeing meticulous attention to detail throughout the project lifecycle.

Mike Shanley, President of Golden Marine Systems, expressed his gratitude for the seamless collaboration between Mid-Coast Marine and GCG Construction, citing their collective efforts as instrumental in the project’s resounding success. “The completion of the ‘B’ dock project for Marine Max Pensacola exemplifies our unwavering commitment to delivering superior marine solutions,” stated Shanley. “We are immensely proud of the craftsmanship and innovation showcased in this project, and we look forward to continuing to exceed the expectations of our clients.”

The City of Leesburg, Florida, was in the final stages of an ambitious public waterfront revitalization in October. In order to expand public boating access and enhance recreational opportunities, the city added fixed and floating docks at Venetian Cove Marina, at the north end of Lake Harris.

The fixed aluminum dock system from Golden Marine Systems is designed for greater space between pilings than a comparable wooden structure. That not only saved the city money, but also made the docks more attractive to view from shore. The floating dock section, also from Golden, features adjustable pile guides, cleats and 22 finger piers with power pedestals, water service, and a fire suppression solution. Both docks have composite decking. Golden also supplied four heavy-duty gangways and a security gate.

Kelly Brothers, Inc. of Fort Myers installed the new docks. “The docks turned out great,” said John Folker, City of Leesburg project manager. “We host several bass fishing tournaments that have a lot of boating and pedestrian traffic. Plus, the area ties into many popular islands within Lake Harris and its adjoining lakes. The revitalized waterfront with new docks will be a huge asset for the city.”

Other improvements at the site include a new restaurant and extensive landscaping. The area offers walking trails and access to Rogers Park and Pat Thomas Stadium, both popular event venues.

The Venetian Gardens renewal project was funded through grants from Lake County and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Bayview Harbor, located between New York Harbor and Cape May in Barnegat Light, New Jersey, recently completed renovations on one of its two marina basins. Bayview Harbor has 150 slips that can accommodate vessels 25 to 120 feet in length. The marina recently upgraded its north basin by replacing the old fixed docks with new slips from Golden Marine Systems (GMS). According to Mike Shanley, president of GMS, the project utilized Golden Marine Systems’ 850 Series single track system which features adjustable cleats, pile guides, and finger piers. Golden also manufactured the gangways. The crew at Bayview topped the docks and gangways with Cumaru hardwood decking. The new slips, which comprise over 9,500 square feet of dockage, are equipped with water and either 30 or 50 amp electrical service. Picnic tables, bathrooms, and showers have also been added to the campus.

“Our fixed docks were in need of repair and our new floating docks are so much more accessible,” said owner Tom MacArthur. “Many customers have expressed how happy they are with the investments and improvements.” Bayview has plans to continue the improvements by installing a pumpout station on their fueling dock and constructing new buildings at both of the two basins. Similar to the upgrade in the north basin, the marina plans to overhaul the south basin as well by replacing the old docks.

“Bayview Harbor is comprised of what had been two multi-generational marinas along one of the prettiest stretches of Barnegat Bay,” MacArthur said. “The facilities had become a little tired over time and it has been so exciting to combine them and breathe new life into the marina for another generation. New floating docks, plus gardens and trees, combined with our stunning views of Barnegat Bay makes it beautiful for our boaters.”

The marina’s location near the Barnegat Inlet provides easy entry to the Atlantic for seasonal and transient boaters, as well as access to topside amenities such as restaurants, shops, galleries, and the Viking Village fishing fleet. The marina offers gas and diesel fuel, a 40-ton travel lift, mechanical and hull services, a ship’s store, and winter storage.

Mystic Pointe Marina in Aventura, Florida, has recently completed the first wave of improvements as part of an overhaul to their docking system. The existing docks, made of wood and over 30 years old, had long since passed their projected life of 25 years. “Not only was the exterior deteriorating visibly, but all the utilities were in need of repair and failing from corrosion,” said Todd Tennen, marina HOA president.

The new aluminum dock system, manufactured by Golden Marine Systems of Fort Meyers, Florida, incorporates their 950 Series double-track system for the main docks and their 850 Series single-track docks for the finger piers. The docks allow for adjustable cleats, and pile guides, and include utility troughs that allow for easy topside access to facilitate the installation and maintenance of in-slip utilities. Tennen noted that since the upgrades, the utilities are more reliable and have safety features the old system never had. Tennen was quick to praise the stability of the new docking system. “Walking on our new dock system feels more like walking on a fixed dock or a concrete floating dock, a tremendous improvement in stability and appearance over our old natural wood docks. Phase One is now complete and that section looks better than ever,” he added.

Construction of Phase Two will include an additional 47 slips and is slated to begin in June 2023. Michael Shanley of Golden Marine Systems explained that manufacturing of the second phase docks is set to begin in the fall of 2022.
This time between the two construction phases, where elements of the original wooden docking system co-exist with the new docks, has allowed the opportunity of comparing the old system with the new. “Since the completion of Phase One, you can see the contrast of quality and appearance. It is like night and day and no doubt, one of the reasons sales of slips have been at record speed and at the highest prices ever,” Tennen said.