Reviews from David Knopf (3)
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Marina Review for Scudder Marina
Reviewed by:
David Knopf
on Jun 28, 2025
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 36'
Draft: 5.0'Rating: 2
Not a preferred marina, but if you want to take your boat to Pelee it is the only marina on the island. Please note, there is NOT potable water at the marina. It is hard to find drinkable water, other than bottled water, on the island.
The marina itself is adequate, although the current management doesn't seem to prioritize attending to inexpensive details like cleanliness. There is the normal dockage and electricity. There are bathrooms and showers, although are a bit dated. The marina did not clean them daily. The water also gives off an unpleasant odor. There is no wi-fi, although the island now has fiber and the marina manager said they may be adding it (there is very little wi-fi on the island, for example, the Stone House does not offer it).
The marina building itself is relatively small compared to many mainland marinas that may serve as a type of convenience store and/or sell items for boats. The manager said they have drinks and snacks, but "hadn't really stocked the shelves this summer".
The people at the marina, and island in general, are very kind. Customer service at the marina was above average. We did have an issue on the second day of the stay when the office did not open as scheduled. It was posted as opening at 8:00 am. but was still closed at 9:30, and we needed their help.
The island is a nature sanctuary. If you are looking for nature, peace and quiet this is your place. If you are not a nature lover (think mayflies, mosquitoes, biting flies), you may want to consider other locations. Tourist sights include the Pelee Island Winery, Stone House, Vin Villa and Pelee Island Lighthouse (you have to fight insects to reach it from land).
Not the most desirable marina, but if you want to visit Pelee Island with your own boat this is your only choice.View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
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Marina Review for Northport - G. Marsten Dame Marina
Reviewed by:
David Knopf
on Jun 29, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 36'
Draft: 5.0'Rating: 5
A quaint village with a nice marina. Walking distance to all shops and restaurants. Great bathhouse facilities and one of the best boaters lounges. Northport itself is a one night stay, unless you plan to spend time in other parts of the Leelanau Peninsula. If you are interested in birds, make a pass by Bellow Island.
View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
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Marina Review for Suttons Bay Marina
Reviewed by:
David Knopf
on Jun 29, 2022
Vessel Type: Sail
LOA: 36'
Draft: 5.0'Rating: 4
Walking distance to almost every shop and restaurant. Slips are in good shape, but it can be almost a half mile walk to the bathrooms from the furthest slips. Bathhouse is average. Clean, but on the small side and dim lighting. Transient slips go quickly beginning April 15.
View location on the Waterway Guide Explorer
