Haul Out in the Keys or Miami

[off-the-grid]

I pulled my hook to head back to Miami from Key Largo, and barely got a few feet before the yoke on my drive just broke. I don't even think I hit anything. At least I didn't feel it. It just broke! To make things even more fun. Apparently unlimited towing doesn't always mean unlimited towing. Because of my circumstances, BoatUS will only cover 50%.

Is there anyplace to haul out in Key Largo on the bay side?
Preferably that will let you do your own work?
I took a look on Active Captain and didn't find anything.

If not, would you recommend Marathon or Miami?
Where would it most likely be cheaper?
Especially since I'll be paying for part of the tow!

Or...does anyone have any experience replacing an out drive while in the water?
Obviously I'd have someone tow me into shallow water if I go that route.

[capngeo]

Yikes! Can't help that far north.... But if you get down my way, 3D on stock island is great people!

[DeepFrz]

capngeo, is that Robbie's on Stock Island? I was there in the 90's so things have probably changed mega big time, but Robbie's on Stock Island was a great place. Very industrial at the time and we did our own work.

[DaveOnCudjoe]

There is a yard in Key Largo on the ocean side around the 98 or 99 mile marker. Looks farly salty from the highway. Dave

[Richard Harper]

When I was struck by lightning near Key Largo, I was towed to Manatee Bay Marina 99 Morris LN, Key Largo, FL 33037 305 451-3332.
They were very helpful. I was able to do most of the work myself. And they were very good at doing the things I could not do.

[Hudson Force]

I would also recomment Manatee Bay if you're draft allows you access. I don't think it's easy with over five feet. I was pulled there for a rudder repair about ten years ago and they did me well.

[off-the-grid]

Thanks! Does Manatee let you live aboard in the yard. Looks like they're my front runner...especially since I'm going to be paying for half of this tow.

Unless I stay here, pull into shallower water, and attempt the repair in the water.
I draw nothing. Could get in close enough where I can just stand behind the boat. Possibly pull up to one of the sailing club docks. I heard there's someone Key Lime who could probably help with the work too.

[AnchorageGuy]

If Manatee does not work out you have Keys Boat Works and Marathon Boat Yard in Marathon. Chuck

[off-the-grid]

Thanks Chuck. Any experience with Out of the Blue down there? I've had a few people mention them.

[AnchorageGuy]

Nope, sorry. Chuck

[Hudson Force]

I don't know about the living aboard opportunity at Manatee Bay. It is definitely far from any other amenities available on shore,.....nothing for miles!

[Richard Harper]

I stayed aboard at Manatee Bay Marina. There is an extra charge.
There is noting within walking distance so I rented a car for a few days to get supplies and repair parts.

[off-the-grid]

Just in case anyone is looking in the future.

Marathon Boat Yard doesn't allow any sanding or bottom work, and you can't live aboard on the hard.

Marathon Marina and Boat Yard let's you do your own work to a point (they weren't too specific), more importantly, you can't live aboard on the hard.

Grove Key Marina (the only place I found in Miami - lets you do your own work, but once again, no livingaboard on the hard.

[capngeo]

Originally Posted by DeepFrz

capngeo, is that Robbie's on Stock Island? I was there in the 90's so things have probably changed mega big time, but Robbie's on Stock Island was a great place. Very industrial at the time and we did our own work.

No but in the same harbor... 3D is directly across the water from the Hogfish Grill