Port Sanibel Marina, SanCap Chamber celebrate ribbon-cutting
A hub for all things boat- and watersports-related just off-island, Port Sanibel Marina officially celebrated its ongoing comeback this week with a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting at its new boat barn. The marina opened its docks and ramp to government agencies and their subcontractors immediately after Hurricane Ian passed, but was unable to open to the public until Jan. 15, 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 Hurricane Ian. It ran logistics; shuttled people, workers, supplies; and provided fuel for emergency services providers at no cost.
“Most of our docks were washed away, and the ship store and fuel dock were completely flooded,” said JD Miner, general manager. “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 Café 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,” said John Lai, SanCap Chamber president and CEO. “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.”
“Our relationship with the chamber has always been exceptional, and we credit them with improving the local business environment and strengthening communities through advocacy and networking,” said Miner. “In addition, they create an easy line of communication for business owners to connect with government entities and have done a phenomenal job assisting businesses reopening after Hurricane Ian.”
ABOUT SANCAP CHAMBER
The SanCap Chamber is dedicated to promoting the prosperity of its members and preserving the quality of life of our community. The Chamber plays a key role in facilitating communication and cooperation between business, residents, and government to enhance the economic health of the islands. Its website, sanibel-captiva.org, receives over 1.3 million visits per year. For more information about the chamber, visit sanibel-captiva.org or contact John Lai, president and CEO, at 239-472-2348 or [email protected].