Sarasota Bay Mooring Field

Sarasota Bay Mooring Field: A Comprehensive Guide for Boaters

Sarasota Bay Mooring Field, located in downtown Sarasota, Florida, offers a perfect spot for sailors and boating enthusiasts to moor their vessels. Home to over 85 permanent moorings, the field is designed to accommodate vessels up to 80 feet in length. Each mooring anchor is storm-rated and individually tested to ensure a high level of safety, with a regularly scheduled maintenance plan in place.

Managed by Marina Jack, the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field provides a comfortable and convenient location to stop for traveling sailors. The bay itself is a vast watershed, offering a wide range of experiences such as tidal sandbars, isolated beaches, bird rookeries, and fishing spots. The field not only offers utility but also access to the beautiful natural surroundings that Sarasota is known for.

The city of Sarasota has put great effort into making the mooring field a welcoming haven for cruisers, opening up a 99-acre designated area that wraps around the downtown Bayfront Park/Marina Jack complex. This new mooring field highlights the city's commitment to supporting the boating community and providing a safe, secure, and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Sarasota Bay Mooring Field Overview

Location and Accessibility

Sarasota Bay Mooring Field is located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico's west coast. This prime location provides easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway, giving visiting sailors an ideal place to stop and explore the beautiful city and its surrounding areas, including popular destinations like Longboat Key and Manatee County.

The mooring field is managed by Marina Jack and can accommodate vessels up to 80 feet in length for short or long-term stays. It is easily accessible through the main channel, ensuring a safe and convenient approach for boaters.

Facilities and Services

With over 85 permanent moorings, the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field offers a range of services and amenities for boaters. Each mooring anchor is storm-rated, equipped with a regularly scheduled maintenance plan, and individually tested to ensure a high factor of safety.

Amenities at the mooring field include:

• 24-hour access to laundry and shower facilities at Marina Jack
• Freshwater and waste pump-out locations
• Complimentary shuttle service to Marina Jack and Sarasota's downtown area
• VHF communication on Channel 16 for assistance and reservations

In addition to these services, the mooring field is within walking distance to a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options in downtown Sarasota. For long-term mooring customers, additional services and support may be available.

Boaters who choose to stay at the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field benefit from convenient access to the surrounding waterways and nearby marinas while enjoying the beauty and amenities of the vibrant city of Sarasota.

Things to Do and Nearby Attractions

Recreational Activities

Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Sarasota Bay Mooring Field offers various recreational activities for boating enthusiasts. With options to stay for a day, week, or month, visitors can enjoy nearby beaches like Siesta Key and Lido Key, just a short boat ride away. For those interested in fishing, there are several options, including shark fishing charters, charter fishing boats, and sport fishing boats.

Nature lovers can stroll through the Selby Botanical Gardens, admiring its plant collection and greenhouses. Alternatively, they can visit The Bay and explore the half-mile Mangrove Bayou Walkway, which winds through beautiful mangroves, native plants, and waters. Kayaking is another popular activity, with numerous scenic routes through Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

Cultural and Entertainment Options

Sarasota is brimming with cultural and entertainment options, such as the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, where visitors can catch music, dance, and theater performances. Additionally, the Asolo Theater offers a range of productions throughout the year.

Art enthusiasts can explore several galleries, including the Ringling Museum of Art, which houses a significant Baroque art collection and a unique Museum of the Circus. Near the mooring field, visitors can browse shops, galleries, and bars in vibrant areas like St. Armands Circle and Siesta Key Village.

Boat tours and services are readily available, such as MarineMax for boat service, Galati Yacht Sales, and yacht brokers for those interested in purchasing their vessels. Aboard the Marina Jack II, guests can enjoy a sunset dinner cruise, while Key Sailing offers sailing charters and lessons for all skill levels.

Moreover, downtown Sarasota hosts numerous events, such as the weekly Farmer's Market, where visitors can shop for fresh produce and clothing stores appealing to diverse tastes. In summary, Sarasota Bay Mooring Field and its surrounding area offer a wide range of recreational activities and entertainment options, making it a fantastic destination for visiting boaters and cruisers alike.

Marina Jack Mooring Field Amenities

On-site Services

At Marina Jack, they offer various on-site services to make your stay comfortable and convenient. Boaters can take advantage of a dinghy dock, climate-controlled showers, laundry facilities, pump-out services, and wireless internet. The marina also provides easy access to wonderful restaurants, so sailors can enjoy fine dining without venturing far from their vessel. The facility is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, also known as the Cultural Coast, which boasts an array of symphony, ballet, and theaters for your entertainment.

Mooring Gear

The Sarasota Bay Mooring Field is home to over 85 permanent moorings designed for vessels up to 80 ft. in length. Each mooring anchor is storm-rated, and has a regularly scheduled maintenance plan, ensuring safety and durability. The mooring gear is of high quality and has been individually tested with a high factor of safety. This makes it an ideal and safe choice for boaters looking to anchor in the bay.

Slip Options

At Marina Jack, you can find a variety of slip options available for your convenience. The facility boasts 298 wet slips for vessels up to 150' in length, over 25 boat lifts for vessels up to 53' in length, and over 85 mooring balls for traveling sailors. With these options, you can select the perfect slip, boat storage or mooring solution for your vessel. The marina also offers boat ramp and launch services, making it simple for boaters to get their vessels in and out of the water.

Shopping and Dining in Sarasota

Sarasota Bay offers various shopping and dining opportunities, especially around the St. Armands Circle Shops and Boutiques, as well as the Siesta Key Village dining and nightlife.

St. Armands Circle Shops and Boutiques

Visitors to St. Armands Circle will find an array of shopping options, including fashion stores, gift shops, jewelry stores, and boutiques. These stores cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, making it easy for anyone to find something special. Additionally, there are salons where one can pamper themselves after a day of shopping.

Some popular shops in this area include:

• Evalyn Dunn Gallery: Offering unique artwork, handcrafted jewelry, and home decor items.
• The Met Fashion House: An upscale fashion boutique with clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women.

Siesta Key Village Dining and Nightlife

Siesta Key Village is a lively destination for dining and nightlife near the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field. With options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, visitors will find a variety of cuisine to please their palate.

A few notable restaurants and hotspots include:

• The Old Salty Dog: A popular waterfront restaurant offering seafood dishes and a famous deep-fried hot dog, along with a full bar and live music.
• Brick's Smoked Meats: A BBQ joint known for its smoked meats, cornbread, and a variety of American pub-style dishes.

In addition to dining, Siesta Key Village also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, live music venues, and beachside spots for a fun evening out.

For those interested in yacht ownership, SYS Yacht Sales can be found nearby, providing an opportunity for visitors to browse a selection of high-quality yachts for sale while enjoying their stay in Sarasota Bay.

Practical Information and Reviews

Safety and Reliability

The Sarasota Bay Mooring Field is managed by Marina Jack and offers over 85 permanent moorings designed for vessels up to 80 ft in length. These mooring anchors are storm-rated, regularly maintained, and individually tested with a high factor of safety. Depths in the mooring field accommodate various vessel sizes.

In addition to moorings, the facility provides several amenities for boaters, such as a fuel dock with both diesel and gas options, a dinghy dock for easy shore access, and laundry facilities for convenience.

User Reviews

Many boaters who have visited the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field have left positive feedback on various aspects of their experience. Some highlights include:

• David B., May 24, 2023: A great time with no issues and plenty of room.
• Kevin W., May 22, 2023: A nice mooring field complemented by a first-class marina. Slightly rolly due to traffic.
• Richard H., May 16, 2023: No specific details provided, but a positive review nonetheless.

Recommendations

Visitors to the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field should be aware that anchoring is not permitted within the mooring field. For those seeking ease of shopping and shore access, this location offers a 4.50 out of 5 stars rating on both aspects. Additionally, the mooring field is pet-friendly, with a 4.33 out of 5 stars rating. While the facility provides some wind and wake protection, it is somewhat exposed to the west through southwest and may experience some wakes from passing boats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the mooring field rates in Sarasota?

The mooring field rates at Sarasota Bay Mooring Field are $30 per day for a transient mooring spot. For the most up-to-date rates, it is recommended to visit the official website of Marina Jack.

How do I reserve a mooring spot in Sarasota Bay?

To reserve a mooring spot at the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field, you can use the online reservation platform Dockwa or contact the marina at (941) 955-9488 and use VHF 16 for communication.

What amenities are available at Sarasota Bay Mooring Field?

Sarasota Bay Mooring Field offers a variety of amenities for transient boaters, including waterfront dining and special event facilities. It is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Other amenities include restrooms and showers, pump-out service, fresh water supply, and WiFi in certain locations within the marina.

Are there any restrictions on boat size in the mooring field?

There may be restrictions on boat size due to the mooring field's capacity and design. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on boat size restrictions, it is recommended to contact the marina directly at (941) 955-9488.

What is the process for checking into the mooring field?

Boaters should check-in after 01:00 PM and check-out before 11:00 AM at the Sarasota Bay Mooring Field. Upon arrival, they should contact the marina at (941) 955-9488 or use VHF 16 for instructions on mooring assignments and procedures. Additionally, boaters should also complete the required paperwork and agreements as specified by the marina.

Is there a waiting list for Sarasota Bay Mooring Field?

For information on the availability of mooring spots and waiting lists, it is best to contact the marina directly at (941) 955-9488 or visit their website for the most recent updates and announcements.