Clinch Park Marina (Duncan L. Clinch Marina) | Traverse City

Duncan L. Clinch Marina, commonly known as Clinch Park Marina, is a key waterfront facility in Traverse City, Michigan, serving as a vibrant hub for boating enthusiasts and visitors seeking access to West Grand Traverse Bay. Located at 111 E. Grandview Parkway, the marina is nestled beside Clinch Park Beach and the popular TART Trail, providing both convenience and scenic beauty in the heart of the city’s waterfront district.

Marina Overview

Clinch Park Marina is a municipally operated marina offering a total of 119 boat slips, which include 65 seasonal slips for long-term boaters and 54 transient slips for visitors or short-term docking. The marina is well-equipped to accommodate vessels of varying sizes, with an approach depth of 15 feet and dockside depth of 8 feet, suitable for boats up to 250 feet in length. It operates seasonally, typically opening from mid-May through late October, aligning with the boating season in the Great Lakes region.

Operating hours vary throughout the season to accommodate peak boating activity, generally running from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM during the busiest summer weeks, with the marina gate closing by 10:00 PM and check-out times set at 11:00 AM. The marina is managed by an experienced dockmaster and staff who assist boaters with docking, reservations, and general inquiries.

Facilities and Amenities

Clinch Park Marina provides an extensive array of amenities designed to support boaters’ needs and enhance their experience:

Utilities: Each slip is equipped with access to water, 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, cable television, and Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and connectivity for boaters.

Fuel Services: The marina features a fuel dock supplying diesel and mid-grade gasoline, facilitating easy refueling for both local boat owners and transient visitors.

Pump-out Station: Boaters can access a pump-out service for waste disposal, available at a reasonable fee, helping maintain environmental standards within the marina and bay.

Restrooms and Showers: These facilities are located in the Boater’s Building and are accessible exclusively to registered marina users through a secure code, providing privacy and cleanliness.

Laundry Facilities: A coin-operated laundry room is available within the Boater’s Building, allowing boaters to manage extended stays with ease.

Picnic and Gathering Area: An outdoor pavilion with a gas grill is on-site for social gatherings, barbeques, or relaxing meals after a day on the water.

Security: The marina maintains safety with uniformed security officers patrolling the grounds and nearby Boardman River during evening and early morning hours, ensuring a secure environment for all guests.

Launch Ramp and Trailer Parking

Clinch Park Marina includes a public boat launch ramp located at the eastern end of the marina. This ramp requires a daily launch fee, payable conveniently via the ParkMobile app, with the option to purchase seasonal launch permits at reduced rates, particularly for seniors. Trailer parking is restricted within the marina itself, but off-site trailer parking is offered nearby for a nominal fee, maintaining the marina area’s organization and safety.

Rules and Regulations

To ensure an orderly and respectful environment, the marina enforces several regulations:

Slip Reservations: Managed through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reservation system, allowing boaters to secure spots ahead of time.

Length of Stay: Transient boaters may occupy a slip for up to 14 consecutive days but must vacate the marina for a minimum of 48 hours before returning.

Quiet Hours: Beginning at 10:00 PM each night, the marina enforces noise restrictions that prohibit amplified music, loud gatherings, generator operation, and other disturbances.

Pet Policy: Leashed dogs are permitted throughout the marina and adjacent park areas, but not on the sandy beach.

Fishing: Fishing within the marina boundaries is not allowed, preserving safety and space for boat operations.

Slip Assignments: Slipholders must personally use their assigned slips and cannot transfer or sublease them to others.

Surrounding Attractions and Connectivity

Clinch Park Marina enjoys a prime location adjacent to several notable Traverse City amenities and attractions:

Clinch Park Beach: Just steps away, this expansive beach offers over 1,500 feet of sandy shoreline along West Grand Traverse Bay. It features lifeguard services during the summer, picnic areas, bike racks, and well-maintained green spaces.

TART Trail: The marina connects seamlessly with the TART multi-use trail system, popular for walking, biking, and running, linking the marina to other parts of Traverse City and enhancing accessibility.

Downtown Traverse City: Within walking distance, the downtown area provides a rich array of dining, shopping, cultural venues, and entertainment, making the marina an excellent base for exploring the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

Summary

Duncan L. Clinch Marina stands out as a full-service, welcoming marina offering modern conveniences and a strategic location that merges boating with the natural beauty and urban vibrancy of Traverse City. Its comprehensive amenities, well-maintained facilities, and thoughtful policies cater to boaters of all kinds, from seasonal residents to transient visitors. Whether docking for a day to enjoy the nearby beach and city or staying longer to explore the waters of West Grand Traverse Bay, Clinch Park Marina provides a safe, accessible, and enjoyable gateway to one of Michigan’s premier waterfront destinations.