Reviews: Port 32 Portside Marina

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Port 32 Portside Marina

209 Arendell Street
Morehead City, NC 28557
AIWW, Morehead Channel MM 205.0 green marker 3

4.56(9)
4.56 out of 5 stars

  • Reviews Summary

    The reviews for Portside Marina highlight a generally positive experience, with several key points emerging:

    1. Friendly and Helpful Staff: Many reviewers praised the staff for their friendliness and willingness to assist, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.

    2. Facilities and Amenities: The marina features decent restrooms, showers, and a ship's store. Reviewers noted the new facilities and cleanliness, contributing to a comfortable experience.

    3. Location: The marina is conveniently located near various restaurants and retail options, making it an attractive stop for visitors.

    4. Fuel Stop: Portside Marina is recognized as a great fuel stop, particularly for those in need of diesel and gas, with helpful dock hands available.

    5. Weather Considerations: Some reviews mentioned challenges with strong winds and lack of protection from the south, which could affect the comfort of overnight stays.

    6. Ongoing Improvements: There are mentions of ongoing repairs and improvements following damage from Hurricane Michael, with optimism about the marina's future.

    7. Overall Recommendation: Despite some minor issues, many reviewers expressed a strong likelihood of returning and recommended the marina to others, highlighting the owners' hospitality and the overall quality of service.

    In summary, Portside Marina is well-regarded for its friendly service, good facilities, and convenient location, though visitors should be mindful of weather conditions.


  • Reviewed by: Peter Searles , Schuyler, on May 15, 2024
    Vessel Type: Power
    LOA: 31'
    Draft: 2.5'

    Rating: 4

    This was a nice marina but, unfortunately, we encountered a strong southerly wind (gusts to 39 MPH) and there was zero protection for the marina from the south which made for a lumpy night. On the positive side, there were decent restrooms and showers, there was a nice ship's store, and the location was convenient to a variety of restaurants. We would stay here again but would look for another alternative if there was a southern wind.

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  • Reviewed by: Dave Skolnick on Nov 8, 2023
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 52'
    Draft: 5.0'

    Rating: 5

    New-ish owners Lee and Kirsten continue the performance of previous owners Denard and Kay. Staff are always helpful and go above and beyond. Portside is a go-to stop for me on delivery. Never disappointed.

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  • Reviewed by: Michele Nollner on Nov 14, 2021
    LOA: 39'
    Draft: 4.6'

    Rating: 5

    Great fuel stop with super helpful dock hands!

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  • Reviewed by: Mike Worsley , Islena, on May 20, 2021
    Vessel Type: Power
    LOA: 40'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 4

    Friendly and all new facilities, stayed 1 night. It is next to the commercial port but we had no noise at night. Walking distance from restaurants.

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  • Reviewed by: Dave Skolnick (S/V Auspicious) on Nov 9, 2020
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 50'
    Draft: 4.5'

    Rating: 5

    On a scale of one to five Portside Marina is a seven. This small marina focused on local and offshore fishing has diesel and gas. They are a great place to keep your boat power, sail, or premium. Although they aren't focused on transients they are a great fuel stop and in the event of an emergency they are there to support you. They are the closest place to Beaufort Inlet. Close to groceries, hardware, West Marine, rental cars, and a number of other retail opportunities. Don't miss the opportunity to meet owners Dr. Denard and Kay Harris who exemplify Southern hospitality.

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  • Reviewed by: Rogue Angel on Nov 1, 2018
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 44'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 3

    Hate to give the 3 stars because I feel these guys deserve much more. Docks were destroyed by Michael. Facility is already being repaired and the staff were excellent and very accommodating to everything we needed. They still had fuel and a few working docks. I would say they will be back very quickly to the five star rating.

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  • Reviewed by: Richard , Fleur de Lis, on Sep 26, 2018
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 46'
    Draft: 4.3'

    Rating: 5

    BoatUS towed me here with some diesel issues. The owners and all of the staff were friendly and helpful.
    They recommended a diesel mechanic, but he was over booked. I found a decent one.

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  • Reviewed by: Yuval Ohali , Con el Viento, on Nov 10, 2017
    Vessel Type: Sail
    LOA: 40'
    Draft: 4.0'

    Rating: 5

    Very good service. People are very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend.

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  • Reviewed by: James on Apr 15, 2017
    Vessel Type: Power
    LOA: 85'
    Draft: 5.5'

    Rating: 5

    Great facility, owned and operated by great people.

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