Reviews from Michael Kwiat (12)

Marina Review for Navy Pier Marina

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Jun 30, 2025
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

A Five-Star First Visit to the New Navy Pier Marina

If you're looking for a top-tier docking experience in the heart of Chicago, the brand-new Navy Pier Marina is a must-visit. We had the pleasure of being among the first boats to use this beautiful, thoughtfully developed facility, and it exceeded every expectation.
From our initial reservation request, General Manager Mark Stevens was prompt and helpful, setting the tone for a smooth, welcoming stay. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a fantastic crew of young dockhands; friendly, attentive, and ready to help with anything. A special shoutout to Amelia, who not only offered to take our trash but made sure we had everything we needed throughout our stay.
One especially impressive feature: the dock cleats slide along the pier, allowing you to position them perfectly for your boat. It's a small detail that makes a big difference, especially for those of us who value secure, custom tie-ups.
Another highlight was witnessing a retired Coast Guard officer on-site training the new staff on pump-out operations. We were proud to be the first boat to use the new system, which is conveniently located on Pier 1, right as you enter the marina.
We also had the chance to meet Randy Podolsky, the developer behind the marina. Randy was personally on-site, talking with boaters, gathering feedback, and making sure every detail was right, a rare and welcome touch.
The location is unbeatable. Right at Navy Pier, you're steps away from restaurants, family attractions, and live entertainment. Heading into the city? Grab a ride share just across from Gate B at Pier 10 (use "Navy Pier Middle Garage" as your pickup point), or hop on a CTA bus at Park Drive and Grand Avenue (Grand runs alongside the pier). If you need supplies, there's a Target and Whole Foods a short walk away.
While the Captain's Lounge isn't open yet, construction was actively underway, and we're excited to see it finished on our next visit.
We experienced two days of strong winds (30–35 mph), and while our boat rocked a bit, the marina's protective design kept us safe and comfortable throughout.
In short: Between the incredible staff, state-of-the-art amenities (like those sliding cleats), and prime location, Navy Pier Marina is a game-changer for Chicago boaters. We'll absolutely be back and recommend you put it in your list.

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Marina Review for Hoppie's Marine Service

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Jun 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

What can I say that has not been said. It is Hoppies, a legend, an oasis on the river. After battling 5 mph current for 3 days. Ray and Deb were great getting us on dock and settled.

Took on Fuel , water , assistance and advice. He also has a small workboat standing by if you need any assistance.

Corp of engineers , winters ice flows and the economy may someday win in taking this 3rd generation marina away from us.

You will not find a pool, tiki bar or an ascot yacht club. You will rock and roll all night by the passing tows, but it is Hoppies and an absolute necessity in a perfect location.

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Free Dock Review for Havana Nature Center Dock

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Jun 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Great stop, beautiful nature center, Had 6 ft water dockside, however the river is 5 ft higher than normal. Worked for us and the price was right...

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Marina Review for Grafton Harbor Marina

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Jun 12, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Nice stop after fighting the current 3 days up the Mississippi River. Plenty of bars and restaurants however most were closed today except for one which had an excellent $6 Cheezburger. Had a courtesy car that we used to reprovision at a Walmart about 25 minutes drive. Very nice pool and I am sure this place rocks on a weekend...

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Anchorage Review for Little River Diversion Channel

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Jun 8, 2024
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Mud bottom. Good holding even though water was extremely high. Felt safe there, no current, very well protected from wing

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Marina Review for Eddy Creek Marina Resort

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Oct 4, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Came for a few weeks , stayed for the season. Nice little Kentucky marina. Not the fanciest place but wonderful people, reasonable fuel and great slip rates. Diesel $4.25 daily transient @ $1/ft It is 1:25 drive to Nashville. nearest towns are Eddyville 8 miles and Cadiz 17. Just got taken over by new company this spring and they have been very accommodating.

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Marina Review for Loggerhead Marina - Marker 1 - Private

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Mar 30, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Caitlin Jewett was kind and helpful when we arrived with a power cord problem Caitlin stayed with is until the problem was resolved! The staff were cery helpful. Thank you!

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Marina Review for Steinhatchee Marina at Deadman Bay

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Mar 30, 2023
Vessel Type: Power
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

We were so fortunate to have the opportunity to spend the night at Steinhatchee Marina a Deadman's Bay! It is a beautiful five star, first class facility! If you find yourself there on Wednesday night, make sure you have the ribs because they were delicious! The staff were all beyond kind. Joey did us a solid this morning, Lexi did a great job checking us in, Victor was the man in the gift shop, tackle shop, provision shop, liquor store, and Tanah makes a delicious margarita! Thank you to all the staff that made our night fantastic! We will definitely find reasons to land here again!

it's a great stop for loopers instead of making that long overhaul from Carrabelle to Tarpon Springs. The diesel price was $4.39 which was equal to the Brunt store which was the cheapest we had found along the entire track from Islamorada.

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Marina Review for Everglades Isle Marina

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Mar 26, 2023
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Beautiful marina in surprising beautiful location. Upscale RV park that is also a fairly nice marina. Surprised to be one 1 of three boats docked here on a Sat night.

Will definitely return and stay a few days on my way south this fall.

One word of caution . The side tie up docks have power pedestals real close to the end of the dock. If you have a larger boat you run the risk of bumping in to them on a side tie unless you put out bumpers all along the width of your vessel before you dock.

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Marina Review for Faro Blanco Marina

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Oct 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 5

Excelent 5 star operation. Excellent restaurant and bar on site. We had a great one night stay.

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Marina Review for The Marina at Factory Bay

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Oct 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Nice marina. Docked at the edge of the T docks. Walking distance to either of 2 tiki bars. Very Upscale area. No Fuel but were met on arrival...

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Marina Review for Roland and Mary Ann Martins Marina & Resort

Reviewed by: Michael Kwiat on Oct 7, 2021
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 47'
Draft: 3.5'

Rating: 4

Another nice evening at R and M. Harbormaster was attentive and the Tiki Bar was awesome as always. Stayed on a weeknight. No loud music as previously reported.

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