Family-Run Essex Marina on the River Crouch

Essex Marina provides a total of 500 deep-water moorings, including around 50 swinging moorings, all accessible at all states of the tide; the facility sits at 51°37.34’N 0°47.85’E on the south shore of the River Crouch opposite Burnham-on-Crouch. The marina’s layout of pontoons running parallel to the river and its on-site travel lift (70‑ton capacity, 6.7m beam) create practical handling and storage logistics for owners, brokers, and commercial service providers working in the area.

Harbour approach and navigational notes

The main commercial and leisure access to the River Crouch is via the Whitaker channel from the Swin Spitway. Mariners should be aware that the approach from the North Sea carries notable sandbank risk; therefore, adherence to the Crouch Harbour Authority’s notices and buoyage updates is recommended prior to making passage. Key lateral marks include Holliwell Point (north) and Foulness Point (south) at the river mouth, with the Inner Crouch and Horse Shoal used as intermediate waypoints. An 8‑knot speed limit begins at the landmark Royal Corinthian Yacht Club building on the north bank.

Berthing and visitor access

Essex Marina is reachable for visitors at any tide but staff request that transient yachts call ahead for berthing instructions and availability. Visitor rates are charged on a 24‑hour basis and vary by length. The marina’s on-site fuel barge supplies petrol and diesel; other day-to-day provisioning is available within a few miles by road.

Facilities, services and yard operations

The facility combines marina services with a significant retail and brokerage presence: Boats.co.uk operates from the site and is one of Europe’s larger boat retailers. Onsite infrastructure includes a working boatyard with cradle hire (limited), shore storage for approximately 300 boats with 240V power and water, a secure compound, and parking for over 200 cars. The presence of a heavy travel lift allows for routine haul-outs and maintenance, supporting both local cruising fleets and brokers handling sales and refits.

Costs and utilities

• Annual berthing (finger berth): from £2,341.25
• Swinging mooring: from £1,240.13
• Visitor fees (24 hours): from £17.88 (6m) to £44.70 (15m)
• Electricity: pay-per-unit; water: included in berthing fees

Passage planning and commercial traffic

The River Crouch remains a working waterway and accepts commercial vessels with drafts up to 6m bound for Baltic Wharf; the Whitaker channel is maintained accordingly. Passage planning should factor in tidal windows for the upper river, up-to-date buoyage, and potential shipping movements. From the mouth to Burnham, keep to the marked fairway and watch for the Roach inflow near Horse Shoal. Local authorities publish navigational updates and harbour notices; consult those sources prior to departure.

Cruising grounds and anchorages

The Crouch provides a variety of sheltered cruising options suitable for weekenders and longer coastal itineraries. The river extends approximately 10nm beyond the marina to Battlesbridge via Fambridge, Brandy Hole and Hullbridge; however, tidal drying is significant between Brandy Hole and Battlesbridge, so only navigate this upper reach on an appropriate tidal window and with local knowledge.

Popular stops and nature highlights

• Cliff Reach — sheltered anchorage close to the marina.
• North Fambridge — stop at the Ferry Boat Inn for food and refreshment.
• Yokesfleet Creek — noted for seal watching at Potton Point and Devil’s Reach.
• Wallasea Island — adjacent RSPB reserve with important birdlife including avocets and marsh harriers.

Local towns and maritime culture

Burnham-on-Crouch is reached easily by ferry from the marina on select days and provides shops, quayside character and a connection to local boating events. Maldon on the Blackwater is another nearby destination, known for salt production and preserved Thames Barges; the visitor pontoon at Hythe Quay offers a convenient landing for guests.

Why owners and charterers value Essex Marina

For owners seeking cost-effective east-coast berthing with strong yard support and broker access, Essex Marina’s combination of storage, travel lift capability and proximity to varied cruising grounds is attractive. The lack of some high‑end glitz is offset by practical service, accessible pontoons, and the convenience of included ashore storage in annual berthing fees.

GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, recognising the importance of practical marina choices for holiday planning, yacht charters and weekend escapes; the platform values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose the vessel and itinerary that suit budget and taste.

Highlights: Essex Marina’s strengths are its 500 deep-water moorings, substantial shore storage, full boatyard services and a prominent brokerage presence; cruising the Crouch offers sheltered anchorages, wildlife on Wallasea Island and easy links to Burnham and Maldon. Experiencing a new location is a multifaceted process — you learn about local culture, nature, the palette of regional colors, the rhythm of life and unique service aspects. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com

Forecast and planning: This local marina profile is unlikely to shift global tourism maps significantly, but it matters for regional cruising patterns and owner decisions. The practical availability of berths, haul‑out capacity and nearby anchorages supports resilient coastal tourism. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!

Summary: Essex Marina offers a pragmatic, family-run base for cruising the River Crouch with ample berthing, on-site boatyard services and accessible anchorages to the north and upriver. The marina’s logistical strengths — fuel barge, travel lift, shore storage and broker presence — make it suitable for owners and charter operators looking for value and convenience. For sailors, charterers and those considering a yacht purchase or sale, the combination of sheltered waters, nearby marinas and wildlife-rich cruising lends itself to varied activities. GetBoat.com supports these choices by offering a transparent, user-friendly way to book or buy yachts, charters and boats worldwide, helping travellers find the right option for their budget and taste. Sail on.