Garrison Bight Key West City Marina

Overview

This is Key West’s municipal marina on the north side of the island—practical, well‑run, and a favorite with cruisers and charter operators. You’re tucked into a protected bight, so the water stays calmer than the open edges of town. Facilities are legitimately good here, with clean bathhouses and everything you need to turn a boat day into an easy routine.

What You’ll Find

• Slips with shore power (30/50 amp), fresh water, trash, and pump‑out service.
• Bath, shower, and laundry facilities, plus 24‑hour security and trailer storage (no dry‑stack).
• A 149‑ball mooring field for longer stays or when slips are tight.
• Charter Boat Row lines the docks—fishing and boat tours head out morning through late afternoon—so it’s a lively scene even if you’re just strolling.

Approach, Clearance, and the Mooring Field

To reach slips on the bight side you’ll pass under the Palm Avenue causeway; plan on roughly 17–18 feet of air draft. The bight’s shape shelters you from most wind and chop. For the mooring field, know that some balls are held by monthly/annual renters; transients should call ahead to confirm availability. If you’re not renting a mooring here, the dinghy dock gate pass isn’t provided—plan alternative dinghy parking in the old seaport area (typically a small daily fee).

Wildlife

Hang around the fish‑cleaning stations and you’ll often spot tarpon and nurse sharks cruising by. Manatees, pelicans, and other regulars make appearances in the slips—great for a quiet dock‑walk when boats are out.

Vibe and Convenience

You’re close enough to downtown to walk, yet out of the Duval Street chaos. Groceries, marine parts, and other errands are within a mile, which keeps provisioning painless between runs.

Best Time to Visit

Office hours run roughly 7 AM–5 PM daily. For check‑in and dock space wrangling, aim for morning. Midday to mid‑afternoon is the busiest window, especially on weekends when charters cycle guests. Photographers and wildlife spotters will like early mornings for softer light and quieter docks.

Good to Know

• This is the City Marina at Garrison Bight (municipal). Next door, Garrison Bight Marina is a separate, private operation with dry‑stack—easy to mix up when you’re calling around.
• Fuel service is available over in the old seaport; plan to fuel there and call ahead for current hours and pricing.
• Planning a longer stay? Monthly slips book far in advance—think months ahead during peak season.