FOCUS ON Isle of Hope Marina
|
|
|
|
Named "Best of Savannah" in 2021, Isle of Hope Marina lies along the northwestern shores of the Waterway in the body of a hairpin turn northwest of ICW marker 46A.
|
|
|
So many captains, skippers and crew say one of their favorite spots along the meandering waterway in Georgia is Isle of Hope Marina. A family owned and operated marina that exudes warm hospitality. Located at statute mile 590 on the western shore along the meandering Skidaway River portion of the ICW, the marina is nestled in the heart of the scenic and historic village of Isle of Hope, a small community just minutes from Savannah.
The history of how the marina gradually came into existence is a story to itself, with three families, the Hallmans, Bandys, and Barbees all competing in various forms of marine businesses from boat maintenance, boat rentals and sale of fish bait.
|
|
The area's beauty has been recognized even by Hollywood producers. |
|
As early as 1962, during the production of the well known movie thriller, Cape Fear, specific scenes were filmed at the marina. As usually happens, several local citizens gained their “local movie stardom” with small parts in the movie. So be prepared as you plan your visit, as you just might find yourself in a movie.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty and serenity of Isle of Hope is to take a walk along Bluff Drive. Whether you want to catch a sun rise or sun set, a stroll along this horseshoe bend in the river, with its moss-hung, old Live Oak trees and historic homes will be an enjoyable stroll.
|
|
And no trip to Isle of Hope Marina would be complete without walking, driving, or biking down the majestic, oak-lined avenue of the Wormsloe Plantation located less than a mile from the marina.
Isle of Hope Marina still offers the benefits of being “family owned and operated." Charlie and Kathryn Waller, with their family and staff, have made so many improvements, adding useful and comfortable amenities. Marina dockage provides 4,000 feet of concrete floating docks with 600 feet capable of accommodating mega-yachts drafts.
|
|
Be sure to enjoy complimentary morning coffee in the new, welcoming clubhouse, Marker46A, or their spacious overwater pavilion. Need a little something, go browse the Ship Store for afternoon ice cream treats and Isle of Hope merchandise. Hop in one of their two complimentary loaner cars for provisioning, shopping and eating just a mile and a half down the road in historic Sandfly or a short 15-minute drive to downtown Savannah. If you prefer more physical activity, pedal away on a complimentary bicycle, or swim some laps at the community pool between Memorial Day and Labor Day. There's no shortage of friendly people, pets and scenic views.
|
|
A very important note: if you are southbound, please be sure to check your fuel before leaving Isle of Hope Marina as it is the last fuel stop for the next 90 miles of the ICW.
The marina has been the recipient of several “Best of Savannah” awards recognizing Isle of Hope Marina’s high standards of service, congenial hospitality and nautical ambiance.
|
|
With all that you’ve enjoyed around Isle of Hope Marina and village, you may be interested in knowing that Savannah's favorite native son, Johnny Mercer, wrote the lyrics to the early 1960’s song “Moon River.” Mercer and Henry Mancini composed the song for Audrey Hepburn in the award-winning movie, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” And yes, that is the same Moon River just south of Isle of Hope Marina where Skidway Narrows and the ICW quickly enter the headwaters of Burnside River, between R74 and flashing daybeacon G75. A portion of Moon River is on the Waterways western flank.
|
|
You will always be welcomed at Isle of Hope Marina. The Waller family and staff look forward to meeting you and making sure you enjoy your visit.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
