Port 32 Marinas, which already operates 10 facilities in North Carolina and Florida for yacht and megayacht owners, has nearly doubled its holdings. Having taken over Acme Marinas, it now has approximately 4,000 slips across 17 locations. In fact, the seven newest marinas are among the most popular with East Coast cruisers.
Acme’s portfolio comprises high-demand destinations in Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, and Florida’s Gulf Coast. Superyacht owners, captains, and crew particularly seek out Vineyard Haven Marina (below), Coinjock Marina & Restaurant (above), and MacDougall’s Cape Code Marine Service, all in Massachusetts, along with Sag Harbor Yacht Yard in New York and Annapolis Landing Marina in Maryland. Although Acme’s Gulf Coast property in Sanibel can’t accommodate these large yachts, it’s a well-known, longstanding marina.
Port 32 Marinas’ holdings prior to the merger were already on owners’ and captains’ radars. For instance, Port 32 Fort Lauderdale is purpose-made for yachts to 180 feet (55 meters). It additionally can service yachts to 150 feet (46 meters). Furthermore, pre-leasing recently began at Port 32 Palm Beach Gardens. Formerly the PGA Marina in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, the redeveloped site should open this December. Twenty in-water slips can accommodate megayachts.
Austin Schell, Port 32’s CEO, says the merger supports the company’s intention to create a larger coastal marina network. “By bringing together complementary portfolios, additional talent, and a shared commitment to service excellence, we are creating a stronger organization that will deliver greater value to our members, shareholders, and employees,” he says.
Acme Marinas launched in 2021 with a focus on acquiring and operating marinas in strong waterfront markets. Shelby Tucker and Stephen Shaw, its co-presidents, say Port 32’s marina quality, operational standards, and customer-service approach were appealing. Both Tucker and Shaw are remaining involved, with Shaw becoming chief investment officer and Tucker becoming chief financial and chief administrative officer. Other executives remain in place, too.
Furthermore, Vineyard Haven Marina, Sag Harbor Yacht Yard, and the others will retain their individual local identity.
Port 32 Marinas port32marinas.com
