Q&A: Hawks Cay Marina completes multiyear rebuild after Hurricane Irma
Published on July 10, 2026
After several years of reconstruction following Hurricane Irma, Hawks Cay Marina in Duck Key, Florida, has completed a major transformation. Marina Director and Dockmaster Chris Groom recently spoke with Marina Dock Age about the project, new amenities, growing transient traffic and what’s next for the marina.
Q: What makes Hawks Cay Marina unique?
Chris Groom: We’re located on Duck Key in the Middle Keys, making us a convenient stop for boaters traveling through the Florida Keys. The marina is naturally protected from weather and offers easy access by both land and water. Our location has always been one of our biggest strengths.
Q: You joined Hawks Cay in 2022 after a Coast Guard career. What did you find when you arrived?
Groom: The marina had suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Irma, but many parts of the infrastructure also needed replacement because of age. The project became much larger than simply repairing storm damage. Every dock, piling and seawall required significant work, and we rebuilt virtually the entire marina.
Q: What were the biggest improvements?
Groom: Every dock was rebuilt using Ipe hardwood, the promenade was redesigned, the marina store was expanded, and we increased the controlling depth from approximately 5 feet to 6 feet at mean low water. That allows us to accommodate more and larger vessels than before.
Q: Was the marina closed during construction?
Groom: No. We remained operational throughout the project, although it required constant coordination. We shifted vessels as work progressed, continued fuel sales using temporary tanks, and kept serving customers while construction continued around us.
Q: What do visiting boaters notice first?
Groom: Most comment on the quality of the docks and the appearance of the waterfront. The new landscaping, pavers and overall consistency throughout the marina create a much different first impression than before.
Q: The marina added several unique amenities. How did those come about?
Groom: We partnered with companies that already had relationships with the resort. Klipsch installed an outdoor audio system throughout the marina, while Killer Dock built custom fillet stations, weigh stations and other dockside equipment. Those additions support both our recreational boaters and our charter fishing fleet.
Q: How has the new waterfront changed the marina?
Groom: The promenade has become a gathering place for both guests and the local community. We’ve started hosting First Friday events with live music and vendors, and we hold events like the Grouper Opener fishing celebration on the waterfront.
Q: Have you seen changes in your customer base?
Groom: Yes. Increasing the depth allows us to accommodate larger cruising yachts. We’re also seeing more transient traffic from boaters traveling between the Gulf Coast, the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Online reservations through Dockwa have also increased our visibility and made booking much easier.
Q: What additional amenities are still being developed?
Groom: We’re finishing a Quarter Deck Lounge exclusively for marina guests. It will eventually include showers, laundry facilities, an ice maker, lounge space and other amenities for overnight visitors.
Q: Customer reviews frequently mention your dock staff. How do you approach customer service?
Groom: My Coast Guard background taught me how stressful arriving at a marina can be, especially in poor weather. Our team tries to meet every arriving vessel, assist with docking and provide as much help as possible so guests can begin enjoying their stay immediately.
Q: Fishing remains an important part of Hawks Cay. How does the marina support anglers?
Groom: We operate 11 charter boats covering offshore, reef and backcountry fishing. The charter fleet creates activity around the docks, and catches like sailfish, mahi and yellowtail snapper help create a lively atmosphere when the boats return each day.
Q: How does the marina fit into Hawks Cay Resort’s overall history?
Groom: The marina has been part of the property for decades. Many guests have been visiting for generations, and rebuilding the marina was also about reconnecting with those longtime customers while welcoming new visitors.
Q: What does success look like moving forward?
Groom: Success is building lasting relationships with guests. We want visitors to feel welcomed, remembered and comfortable returning year after year.
