About Us.
ABOUT US:
Located on a private peninsula in Marathon Florida, White Marlin Marina was originally established in 1954 as an Angel Fish Research Hatchery by The University of Miami. Purchased in 1989 for use as a private residence/marina it has been fully functional since 2014. Subsequently purchased by the Whittington Family in 2020 they immediately began upgrading and improving all aspects of the marina, while embracing the beauty and laid back feeling of this exclusive location.
Owners Shorty and Ro Whittington have clocked 24,000 nautical miles all over US including the Great Loop. Co-owner, John Whittington is often busy raising his 3 children, but enjoys his houseboat on lake Monroe and his fishing boat here in the Keys.
Prior to being hired, Dockmasters Jay & Laura came to White Marlin for shelter during a storm in Nov 2020 and extended their stay for the full winter season of 20/21. The both fell in love with the property and the small community of Marathon. They were excited to apply for and thrilled to accept the Dockmaster position when it came up. They spend their time maintaining the property and are genuinely dedicated to making everyone staying here feel safe and welcome.
When boaters arrive and comment on their nautical trip to the Keys, Jay & Laura know what they are talking about because they've been there, for them the job is about community and the connection with each boater/guest. They are happy to share local knowledge of reefs, fishing, diving/snorkeling, local restaurants & watering holes to make your stay exceptional. Many guests come back season after season to reconnect with friends and enjoy the relaxing, social atmosphere found here at White Marlin.
White Marlin isn’t just a marina.... it’s a true Florida Keys destination and a relaxing home away from home.
Meet the Dockmaster.
Jay and Laura are avid boaters who retired from their 9-5 careers to pursue living on their boat full time in 2020. Laura was a GM for a large Cadillac dealership in Michigan and Jay was a successful insurance salesman. After making their way back to the Florida Keys by boat late in 2020, they needed to find a place to shelter from incoming weather and ducked into White Marlin for the storm. They ended up extending their stay for the Winter 2020-2021 season and when the opportunity arose for a new Dockmaster they threw their hat in the ring.
In their free time Jay and Laura enjoy spending time on their boat, fishing, and hanging out at the many sandbars and reefs close to the marina. So be sure to ask them where the good spots are!
Jay & Laura work tirelessly to maintain the sprawling property and provide the highest level of customer service to all who choose to dock here.