Frequently Asked Questions

Launches run daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Schedule online through BoatCloud — when your boat arrives for storage you receive an email invitation to join — or call the Ships Store at (239) 495-3222 one hour in advance, subject to available launch times. You can request fuel, ice and live shrimp (October–April) with your launch.

Yes. Request a launch through BoatCloud or call the Ships Store before 3:30 PM and your boat will be tied to the floating dock for your evening. When you return, tie up to the floating dock and marina staff will haul your boat out in the morning.

The marina is open 7 days a week, 8 AM–5 PM, weather permitting, and closes only for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. If you'd like your boat available on one of those holidays, alert the Ships Store the day before.

Call the marina at (239) 495-3222 before your visit so we can clear you through the gate house that day. Visitors arriving by boat can pull up to the transient dock at any time without gate clearance.

Absolutely — boaters are welcome at the marina transient dock any time. Guests arriving by car from outside Bonita Bay need a reservation and gate clearance: call the restaurant at (239) 992-3010.

Maximum draft is 36 inches, per the marina's permitting agreement.

From the back of the engine or platform to the front of the anchor or pulpit. For storage rates and availability, call Captain Tibe Larson at (239) 495-3222.

Storage is billed on the 25th of each month for the upcoming month. Slip holders can pay online through the marina's Online Bill Pay portal.

Follow the marked route north from the marina through Estero Bay to New Pass and into the Gulf. A waterway chart showing the route is available at the Ships Store.

The marina monitors VHF channel 72 during normal operating hours. The U.S. Coast Guard monitors VHF channel 16 for emergencies.

When a Hurricane Watch is issued, the marina may bring some or all outside-moored boats into dry dock; affected boats are billed a hurricane haul-out fee. If a storm concerns you, call (239) 495-3222 or email tibel@bonitabaymarina.net.

Yes — towing insurance is recommended for all boat owners. The marina has partnered with Tow Boat U.S.; call them directly at (239) 945-1664.

Yes. Several independent mobile mechanics serve the marina, and dealers may perform warranty work on site. All vendors must have a Certificate of Insurance on file with the marina — details at the Ships Store.

Several work racks are available first-come, first-served for washing, waxing and repairs. All vessels must be out of the water to be washed; during the busy season please limit washing to 30 minutes as a courtesy.

Boaters are encouraged to use a marina account for purchases. Guests may pay via ACH, cash, Visa or Mastercard. Backwater Jacks is cashless and accepts Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and Discover.

Jack's Pack is Backwater Jacks' annual dining rewards program: 10% off food and beverage (including in-home catering), a $150 beverage credit, 10% off Ships Store purchases, 2% off marine gasoline and VIP advance reservations. Call (239) 992-3010 or email adriannah@bonitabaymarina.net.

Yes — the marina runs a classified ads program for owners. Email the Ships Store at caras@bonitabaymarina.net for an ad form and instructions.

Call Sweetwater Lifestyles at (239) 405-7155 — a Bonita Bay tradition since 1992 — or visit sweetwaterlifestyles.com. Cruises, tours and charters depart right from the marina docks.