Freedom Boat Club Location: Jacksonville

Freedom Boat Club in Jacksonville offers a wide range of activities for a perfect day on the water. Whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, enjoying some spectacular wildlife viewing while heading north from the marina, or exploring nearby island areas like Grand Marsh or Ft. George Island, there’s something for everyone at this marina.

A bright, clear day view of the Jacksonville, Florida, waterfront. In the foreground, several boats are docked at a marina, with calm waters reflecting their hulls. The skyline of downtown Jacksonville dominates the background, showcasing modern skyscrapers like the Wells Fargo building and the Bank of America tower. The iconic blue Main Street Bridge (John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge) is visible on the right side, spanning the St. Johns River. The cityscape contrasts with the tranquil marina, creating a vibrant urban-meets-waterfront scene.

Boat Options at Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Marina offers a diverse selection of boats, making it easy to find the right one for your adventure, whether it’s fishing, watersports, or a leisurely cruise.

Boat types available:

  • Center Consoles: Ideal for both inshore and offshore fishing trips.
  • Deck Boats: Great for family outings and watersports, offering spacious seating and plenty of storage.
  • Bowriders: Perfect for relaxing cruises or enjoying watersports like tubing and skiing.
  • Bay Boats: Designed for navigating shallow waters, these are excellent for coastal fishing.

Additionally, Jacksonville and Camachee Cove are the only two Freedom Boat Club marinas in Northeast Florida that allow boats to go offshore, giving members the added bonus of venturing into deeper waters.

How Busy Is It?

The Jacksonville marina can get busy at times, so it’s a good idea to book your boat in advance. While it’s not as busy as Camachee Cove, it’s a bit more crowded than Julington Creek. Plan ahead, especially on weekends or holidays.

How Far Can You Go?

From Jacksonville, there are limits on how far you can travel, depending on your location:

  • Offshore: You can travel up to 15 miles offshore, which is less than the typical 25 miles available at other locations. For longer offshore trips, Camachee Cove is a better option due to its closer proximity to the inlet.
  • Inshore: You can travel up to a 25-mile radius within inland waterways, providing plenty of space to explore the St. Johns River, nearby islands, and various coastal landmarks.

Map Overview

Here’s a quick guide to the layout of the Jacksonville marina:

  • 1: Drop-off Location
  • 2: Pickup Location
  • 3: Parking Area
A satellite view of a marina complex along Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville, Florida. Several docks stretch into the water, with boats lined up in the marina slips. Key areas are numbered, with "1" marking a dock, "2" marking an area with boats in the water, and "3" marking a parking area. Freedom Boat Club is located in the central part of the image, near the docks, and MarineMax Jacksonville is visible to the right. The McCormick Bascule Bridge crosses the water on the left side. Various streets, including 2nd Ave N, are labeled in the surrounding areas.

The marina provides ample parking with easy access, making it simple to get in and out. There are also nearby food options, making it convenient to grab a meal before or after your boating trip.

Boat Options at Jacksonville

Here are some specific boats available for reservation at the Jacksonville marina:

  • Hurricane SunDeck Sport 201: A versatile boat perfect for watersports and family outings.
  • Key West 203 FS: A popular center console, great for both inshore and offshore fishing.
  • Key West 210 BR: A bowrider model designed for comfort and leisure activities.
  • Key West 239 DFS: A dual console offering additional comfort and protection from the elements.
  • Key West 239 FS: Another top choice for fishing enthusiasts, providing ample space for gear and passengers.

Activities Available

Jacksonville is a gateway to a variety of exciting activities:

  • Inshore and Offshore Fishing: With access to both inshore and offshore waters, you can fish for redfish and trout inshore or larger species like snapper and grouper offshore.
  • Ft. George Island: Take a scenic cruise to this beautiful spot, perfect for exploring, picnicking, or hiking. Be cautious of the depth here, as it can get shallow quickly.
  • Grand Marsh Island: Anchor your boat at Grand Marsh Island to explore the natural surroundings. It’s a great spot for birdwatching or stretching your legs.

Navigating the Waters

Navigating the waters around Jacksonville and Julington Creek is relatively easy, but there are a few key things to remember:

  • Heading North: The channel going north can feel narrow, so it’s important to keep an eye on your depth. A few sailboats have run aground here in the past.
  • Channel Markers: As you head north along the Intracoastal, remember: green on starboard (right) and red on port (left). This rule also applies when traveling up the St. Johns River.

Amenities at the Marina

As part of Windward Marina, the Jacksonville location offers a range of great amenities:

  • Restrooms: Clean and easily accessible facilities.
  • Ample Parking: Plenty of parking spaces near the docks for convenient access.
  • Mavi Waterfront Bar and Grille: A waterfront dining option where you can enjoy a meal after your boating adventure.

Contact Info:

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a day of fishing, wildlife viewing, or just a relaxing cruise along the St. Johns River, Jacksonville Marina offers a wide variety of activities and amenities to ensure a fantastic experience on the water. With diverse boat options, convenient access to both inshore and offshore waters, and top-notch amenities, this marina is an excellent choice for both seasoned boaters and newcomers alike.

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