Marina Jacks: A Comprehensive Guide to Sarasota's Premier Waterfront Destination

Marina Jacks is a premier waterfront dining and entertainment destination located in Sarasota, Florida. The marina offers a variety of services and experiences on the inter-coastal waterway of Sarasota Bay, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

With its award-winning dining options, scenic views, and exceptional menu featuring steaks, seafood, and pasta, Marina Jacks is a must-visit destination for foodies and boating enthusiasts.

Marina Jacks is more than just a restaurant. It is also a full-service marina that specializes in transient dockage and cruise club accommodations for visitors who want to explore nearby Downtown Sarasota and events near the famous Sarasota Bayfront.

The marina includes full amenities, including bathrooms, launderette, and a fuel dock. Visitors can take in some of the many attractions in just a few nights or secure one of the 316 slips on an annual basis. Marina Jacks is also a popular venue for weddings, offering a premier waterfront view, exceptional menu, and professional servers.

Key Takeaways

• Marina Jacks is a premier waterfront dining and entertainment destination located in Sarasota, Florida.
• Marina Jacks is also a full-service marina that specializes in transient dockage and cruise club accommodations for visitors who want to explore nearby Downtown Sarasota and events near the famous Sarasota Bayfront.
• Marina Jacks is a popular venue for weddings, offering a premier waterfront view, exceptional menu, and professional servers.

Marina Jack Overview

History

Marina Jack is a premier marina and waterfront dining destination located in Sarasota, Florida. The marina was established in 1968 and has since then been a hub for boating enthusiasts. Over the years, Marina Jack has undergone several renovations and upgrades to keep up with the ever-changing needs of its customers. Today, it is a state-of-the-art marina that offers a wide range of amenities and services to its patrons.

Location

Marina Jack is located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, Florida, and is easily accessible by land or water. The marina is situated on the Sarasota Bayfront, which provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. The location is not only beautiful but also convenient for boaters who want to explore the surrounding waters.

The marina is close to several popular attractions, including Bayfront Park, Marina Jack II, and the Sarasota Opera House.

Marina Services

Marina Jack offers a wide range of services to its customers, including wet slips, boat lifts, and mooring balls. The marina has 298 wet slips for vessels up to 185', over 20 boat lifts for vessels up to 40,000 lbs, and 85+ mooring balls for traveling sailors.

The marina also has a full-service fuel dock with after-hours fueling, in-slip pump-out, and ship's store. Marina Jack's Yacht Services department provides boat maintenance, repair, and detailing services. The marina also offers boat and jet ski rentals, transient slips, and a boat club.

Dining at Marina Jack

Marina Jack offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and preference. Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal with a waterfront view, Marina Jack has got you covered.

The Dining Room

The Dining Room, located on the second floor of Marina Jack, offers an exceptional menu featuring the region's finest steaks, seafood, and pasta. With an award-winning wine list and a breathtaking view of Sarasota Bay, The Dining Room is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your dining experience. The professional staff provides excellent service, making sure that every guest has an unforgettable experience.

Blue Sunshine Patio

The Blue Sunshine Patio is a pet-friendly outdoor dining area that offers a casual atmosphere with a stunning waterfront view. The patio menu includes a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options. The live daily entertainment adds to the ambiance, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Gulf of Mexico breeze.

Deep Six Lounge & Piano Bar

The Deep Six Lounge & Piano Bar is a cozy spot to enjoy a drink and live music. The bar area features a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as a menu of soups, salads, and desserts. The professional staff and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind after a long day.

Marina Facilities

Docking Information

Marina Jack offers a wide range of docking options for boats of all sizes. The facility boasts 298 wet slips for vessels up to 150' in length, and over 20 boat lifts for vessels up to 40,000 lbs. Visitors can take advantage of transient dockage and cruise club accommodations to explore nearby downtown Sarasota and events near the famous Sarasota Bayfront.

Docking information such as dockage rates, marina map, and on-site charters can be found on Marina Jack's website. The website provides a comprehensive guide to the marina's facilities and services, making it easy for visitors to plan their stay.

Mooring Field

In addition to wet slips, Marina Jack offers a mooring field with 60 mooring balls. Visitors can reserve a mooring ball by contacting the marina office or via Dockwa, a popular online reservation system. The mooring field map is available on Marina Jack's website, making it easy for visitors to choose their preferred location.

The mooring field is a popular choice for boaters looking for a more secluded and peaceful experience. The field is located just outside the marina basin and offers stunning views of the Sarasota Bayfront.

Yacht Services

Marina Jack's Yacht Services department provides a wide range of services to keep boats in top condition. The department offers mechanical, electrical, and plumbing repairs, as well as bottom painting, detailing, and waxing services.

Boaters can also take advantage of the marina's fuel dock, which offers both gasoline and diesel fuel. The fuel dock provides after-hours fueling and in-slip pump out services for added convenience.

Events and Entertainment

Marina Jack is a popular destination in Downtown Sarasota, Florida for events and entertainment. With a variety of offerings, there is something for everyone at this waterfront venue.

Live Daily Entertainment

Marina Jack is known for its live daily entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music genres from rock to classical. The performers are talented and provide a lively atmosphere for guests. The events calendar on the Marina Jack website is frequently updated with upcoming events, music events, live music, acoustic singers and more.

Private Events

Marina Jack is a popular location for private events such as weddings, banquets, and other special occasions. With stunning waterfront views and a family-friendly environment, it is the perfect place to celebrate a special day. The venue offers a variety of banquet rooms to accommodate events of all sizes. The staff is knowledgeable and experienced in planning events, ensuring that every detail is taken care of.

In addition to private events, Marina Jack also offers Sarasota boat rentals and is home to the Suntex Boat Club. The boat rentals are perfect for exploring the beautiful Sarasota Bay, while the Suntex Boat Club is a great option for those who want to enjoy boating without the hassle of boat ownership.

Visitor Information

Parking and Accessibility

Marina Jack offers ample parking options for visitors. There is a large parking lot located adjacent to the marina with a capacity of up to 300 vehicles. The parking lot is accessible from both US 41 and Gulf Stream Avenue.

Valet parking is also available for those who prefer the convenience of having their car parked for them. The valet parking service is located in front of the Marina Jack restaurant and is available during business hours.

The marina is easily accessible for people with disabilities. There are designated parking spots for people with disabilities in the parking lot. The marina is also equipped with wheelchair ramps and has an elevator that provides access to the second floor of the Marina Jack restaurant.

Pet-Friendly Options

Marina Jack welcomes pets and has several pet-friendly options available. Visitors can bring their pets to the outdoor patio area of the Marina Jack restaurant. The patio is shaded and has a beautiful view of the marina. Water bowls are available for pets on the patio.

Visitors can also bring their pets on the Marina Jack II sightseeing cruises. Pets must be leashed at all times and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Contact and Reservations

Visitors can contact Marina Jack by phone at (941) 365-4232 or by email at [email protected].

Reservations for the Marina Jack restaurant can be made online through their website or by phone. Reservations are recommended for the Marina Jack II sightseeing cruises, especially during peak season.

Visitors can make reservations for the sightseeing cruises online or by phone.

Community and News

The Jack Gives Back

Marina Jack is not just a place to dock your boat or grab a bite to eat, it is also a proud member of the Sarasota community. The Jack Gives Back program is a testament to this commitment.

This program is designed to support local charities and organizations in their mission to improve the lives of Sarasota residents. The Jack Gives Back program has donated thousands of dollars to local organizations such as the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, the Humane Society of Sarasota County, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County.

Latest News and Updates

Marina Jack is always bustling with exciting events and activities. From live music to boat shows, there is always something happening at Marina Jack.

The Latest News and Updates section of the Marina Jack website is the best place to stay up-to-date on all the latest happenings.

Visitors can find information on upcoming events, special promotions, and new menu items.

In addition to the website, Marina Jack also offers a newsletter that subscribers can receive via email. This newsletter is a great way to stay informed on all the latest news and events at Marina Jack.

Employment Opportunities

Marina Jack is always on the lookout for talented and passionate individuals to join their team. Employment opportunities are available in a variety of areas such as food and beverage service, boat rentals, and maintenance.

Marina Jack offers competitive pay, flexible scheduling, and a fun and exciting work environment. Interested applicants can visit the Marina Jack website for more information on available positions and how to apply.

Customer Experience

Reviews and Feedback

Marina Jacks has received generally positive reviews and feedback from customers. The average rating on TripAdvisor is 4 out of 5 stars, with many customers praising the restaurant's waterfront location and scenic views of the harbor.

Some customers have described the food as "overpriced" or "mediocre," but others have found it to be a good "value" for the quality and portion sizes.

Service and Staff

Customers have generally found the staff at Marina Jacks to be professional and attentive. The BirdEye review platform shows many positive comments about the service, with customers describing the staff as "friendly" and "knowledgeable."

Some customers have noted that the restaurant can get busy and crowded, which can lead to longer wait times and slower service.

Special Offers and Memberships

Marina Jack offers various special offers and memberships to enhance the boating experience of its customers. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Marina Jack offers a Sunset Dinner Cruise, which is a perfect way to enjoy the beautiful Sarasota sunset.

The cruise takes place on the Marina Jack II, a luxurious yacht with indoor and outdoor seating options.

The Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a delectable four-course meal that includes a salad, an entrée, a dessert, and a beverage of your choice. The menu features a variety of options, including fresh seafood, chicken, and vegetarian options.

The Sunset Dinner Cruise is perfect for a romantic date or a special occasion. The cruise is available every day and reservations are recommended.

Suntex Boat Club Membership

Marina Jack offers a Suntex Boat Club Membership, which is a great option for those who want to enjoy boating without the hassle of owning a boat.

Members of the Suntex Boat Club have access to a fleet of boats that they can use at any time. The boats are well-maintained and come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs.

The membership includes unlimited boat usage, fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Members also have access to exclusive events and discounts on other Marina Jack services.

Gallery and Media

Marina Gallery

Marina Jack's Marina Gallery is a showcase of the premier waterfront view, weddings on the water, private event rooms, and restaurants in Downtown Sarasota, Florida.

The gallery is a visual representation of the luxurious ambiance and exquisite decor that Marina Jack has to offer. It is an ideal location for weddings, corporate events, and private parties.

The gallery features stunning views of the Sarasota Bay, with the boats and yachts docked at the marina adding to the picturesque setting.

The space is adorned with elegant chandeliers, beautiful floral arrangements, and luxurious furnishings, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The gallery is perfect for those seeking an upscale venue for their special event.

Virtual Tour

For those who cannot make it to the Marina Gallery in person, Marina Jack offers a virtual tour of the space.

The virtual tour provides a 360-degree view of the gallery, allowing guests to explore the space from the comfort of their own home.

The tour is an excellent way to experience the ambiance and decor of the gallery, giving guests a taste of what they can expect when they visit in person.

The virtual tour is accessible through the Marina Jack website and is easy to navigate.

The tour is interactive, allowing guests to move around the space and explore every corner of the gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dining options are available at Marina Jack?

Marina Jack offers a variety of dining options, including indoor and outdoor seating.

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with a menu that features seafood, steaks, and other American cuisine.

There is also a bar area that offers a selection of drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails.

How much does the Marina Jack dinner cruise cost?

The cost of the Marina Jack dinner cruise varies depending on the day of the week and the time of year. As of the current date, the price for adults is $69.95 per person, while children ages 3-10 are $34.95 per person.

The dinner cruise includes a buffet-style dinner, live entertainment, and a scenic tour of Sarasota Bay.

Can you provide directions to Marina Jack?

Marina Jack is located at 2 Marina Plaza in Sarasota, Florida.

If you are coming from the north, take I-75 South to Exit 210 (Fruitville Road). Turn left onto Fruitville Road and continue for approximately 3 miles.

Then, turn right onto US-41 South and continue for approximately 0.5 miles. Turn left onto Gulfstream Avenue and continue for approximately 0.5 miles.

Afterward, turn right onto Ringling Boulevard and continue for approximately 0.2 miles. Turn left onto Bayfront Drive and continue for approximately 0.1 miles.

Finally, turn right onto Marina Plaza and continue until you reach Marina Jack.

What items are available for purchase at the Marina Jack gift shop?

The Marina Jack gift shop offers a variety of items, including souvenirs, clothing, and accessories.

Some of the popular items include t-shirts, hats, and keychains. There are also items available that feature the Marina Jack logo, such as coffee mugs and water bottles.

What are the best restaurants near Marina Jack in Sarasota, Florida?

There are several restaurants located near Marina Jack that offer a variety of cuisine options.

Some of the popular options include O'Leary's Tiki Bar and Grill, The Old Salty Dog, and The Cottage.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there is also the Bijou Café and Michael's On East.

What are the prices for the Marina Jack lunch cruise menu?

The cost of the Marina Jack lunch cruise varies depending on the day of the week and the time of year.

As of the current date, the price for adults is $44.95 per person, while children ages 3-10 are $24.95 per person.

The lunch cruise includes a buffet-style lunch, live entertainment, and a scenic tour of Sarasota Bay.