Jolly Harbour Marina & Boatyard

Antigua, with its stunning Caribbean beauty, is home to the Jolly Harbour Marina & Boatyard, an exceptional destination for sailors and boaters. Jolly Harbour Marina, located in the heart of Antigua’s Leeward Islands, stands as a beacon of excellence in marina services.

Location

Situated on Antigua’s protected west coast, Jolly Harbour Marina enjoys a prime location at coordinates 17deg 04′.46N, 61deg 54′.30W. This ideal positioning serves as a gateway to Antigua’s numerous bays and pristine anchorages, and on clear days, offers views of Montserrat, Redonda, St. Kitts, and Nevis.

Approach to the Marina (Marina Entry and Navigation)

Boaters can find the entrance to Jolly Harbour Marina at 17Deg 04’.5N, 61deg 54’.3W, marked by a safe water marker. The marina operates under the IALA B System, with clearly marked red and green channel markers. A “no wake” zone and a speed limit of 5 knots ensure a safe and mindful approach. It’s recommended to approach the marina during daylight hours for easier navigation and a safer entry. For assistance with docking or any inquiries, visitors can contact the marina staff on VHF Channel 68.

Jolly Harbour Marina, recognized as an official port of entry in Antigua & Barbuda, adheres to specific protocols to ensure a smooth and lawful entry for all incoming vessels. Upon arrival, it’s crucial for boats to fly the ‘Q’ flag, signaling their intention to clear customs. The vessel should then proceed to the dedicated dock designated for incoming boats. It is important that only the skipper leaves the boat to complete the clearance process. The skipper must carry all necessary documents, including boat papers, passports, and onward travel details, to complete customs, immigration, and port authority procedures. A key point to note is that access to the Marina docks and fuel dock is restricted until official clearance into Antigua & Barbuda is granted. This rule is strictly enforced to maintain compliance with local maritime laws and regulations, ensuring a safe and legal entry for all visitors to the Jolly Harbour Marina.

Specifications of the Marina

Jolly Harbour Marina can accommodate a diverse range of vessels:

• Berths: 155 berths across 4 docks in the main marina area, with additional dedicated docks for larger vessels up to 200 feet.
• Boatyard Storage: Capacity for 200 boats, including covered dinghy storage.
• Utilities: Every berth is equipped with power (120V and 220V), water, and free Wi-Fi. Fuel, pump-out services, and propane refills are also available.

Infrastructure, Services, and Facilities

The marina boasts a modern infrastructure:

• Boatyard: Two yard areas for vessels up to 75 feet in length, offering both cradle and stand storage.
• Security and Safety: 24-hour security, CCTV, and ABSAR (Antigua & Barbuda Search and Rescue) base.
• Marine Services: Full-service chandlery, marine tradesmen, boat management, and off-site specialists.

Amenities in the Marina and Nearby

The marina is equipped with:

• Shopping and Dining: A large supermarket, various cafés, bars, and restaurants.
• Recreation: A swimming pool, golf course, and nearby white sand beach.
• Convenience Facilities: Laundry, ATMs, shower facilities, medical facility, and police station.

How to Get There

Access to Jolly Harbour Marina is convenient:

By Plane

• International Access: The V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua is the main gateway for international travelers. Upon arrival at the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Jolly Harbour Marina. The drive is scenic and well-signposted, making it a pleasant journey.
• Regional Flights: For those coming from neighboring Caribbean islands, regional flights to Antigua are frequent and offer a quick way to reach the island.

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By Road

• From the Airport: The marina is a straightforward drive from the airport. Rental cars are readily available, and the route is well-marked, leading you directly to the marina.
• Around the Island: Antigua has a good road network, making Jolly Harbour Marina easily accessible from any part of the island. Regular bus services also run close to the marina, offering an affordable option for those preferring public transportation.

By Sea

• Sailing to the Marina: For those arriving by boat, Jolly Harbour Marina is an accessible destination. The marina’s coordinates are 17deg 04′.46N, 61deg 54′.30W. Boaters should be mindful of the “no wake” zone and the 5-knot speed limit as they approach.
• Marina Entry: Navigational aids, including red and green channel markers, guide sailors safely into the marina. The entrance channel can accommodate boats with a draft of up to 13 feet.

Attractions Nearby

The surrounding area of Antigua offers numerous attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural reserves, enhancing the appeal of Jolly Harbour Marina as a premier Caribbean destination.