Back on the Map - Half Moon

Above: Half Moon Marina as it stands today, with the newly reconstructed building, new lift, and evidence of the care and attention given by the new owners. Photo by Amy Thurman

Left: Half Moon once played host to one of the largest kingfish tournaments in the southeast, drawing crowds such as this. Grant and Kevin plan to put the marina back on the map with future tournaments. Photo provided by Half Moon Marina

Bottom: Although there have been changes in the decades since the marina was built in the 1950s, it still serves the community. Photo provided by Half Moon Marina

Opposite Page: A view of the marina store after Kevin and Grant purchased it, and before construction began. Photo provided by Half Moon Marina

By Amy Thurman

Grant Porter and Kevin Hofkin had a vision when they bought Half Moon Marina on Colonels Island, in Liberty County, last April and that vision is taking shape through their determination, hard work, and their belief in the need to preserve community access to the water.

Many small, independent marinas have been snapped up by corporate outfits, some being upgraded to high-end dockage and dry storage, and others being razed and replaced with condos or retail establishments. Half Moon has been a community marina since it was built, in the 50s, and the new owners, who’ve both worked in public service for most of their lives, are determined it will remain such. Both men retired from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Department prior to buying Half Moon.. “Keeping the marina available for the community is just a natural progression. We’ve both been focused on community service for decades,” Grant said.

They started with the marina building, which previously consisted of four 40-foot shipping containers lined up side-by-side, framed in and roofed. On the same footprint they built a cement-block structure constructed to withstand hurricane-strength winds. It now houses a

large general store offering tackle, shirts, local products, snacks and beverages, a kitchenette, and bathrooms with showers.

They’ve also updated the boat hoist with new equipment and are working through the permitting process to improve the docks.

“It’s a diamond in the rough, and we’re polishing it one side at a time,” Kevin said, with a grin. Both are clearly enjoying the work of giving the place new life.

They’re far from done and look forward to putting the marina back on the map. They’ll be working with St. Catherines Fishing Club and Colonels Island Fishing Club to host fishing tournaments in the near future, and have plans to invite food trucks to set up on weekends. They hope to host a variety of family-oriented activities, such as an “art in the park” event at the neighboring Eve Park, and “screen on the green,” showing boating-themed and family-friendly films.

They also plan to offer sunset cruises, beach drops to St. Catherines Island, and possibly host boating skills courses, kids summer camps, and fishing trips to introduce soldiers, and those who are new to the community, to fishing and the water.

“We want to give families the opportunity to create lifelong memories with their kids. I remember spending time outside and on the water with my family,” Grant said, “and we want to make sure others can too. We’re lucky enough to be in a community that’s excited about the marina and wants to see it grow.”

Dale Jones, a resident of the condos behind the marina, and a marina customer, vouched for that. “They’re the best thing that could have happened to this place, they’re great people! We’re all glad to see the improvements.” Look for updates as Half Moon continues to grow and thrive!

After the shipping containers were removed, construction started on the same footprint of the former facility. New concrete was poured and cement walls were erected. Photo provided by Half Moon Marina

The newly remodeled building is inviting and members of the community frequently stop by to socialize. Photo by Amy Thurman

Above: Rustic old tin graces the front of the store lending a touch of nostalgia fitting the history of the place. Left: Apparel bearing the Half Moon logo on display in the marina store. Photos by Amy Thurman

Left Top: A photo of former owner Don Rowe and his late wife, Anne, hangs in a place of honor behind the counter in the marina store. Be sure to ask about the significance of the wood the photo is mounted on. Left Middle: Caitlyn, who helps out with all things computer and runs the store on weekends, along with marine mascot Milo. Left bottom: The back of the marina sign guests see when departing. Stay salty!

Half Moon Marina 127 Azalea Road Colonels Island (Midway) (912) 884-5819 On Facebook at: Facebook.com/HookNReelatHalfmoon

Hoist for boats 35' and under Gas and diesel Dockage and some storage available Live and frozen bait Showers Ice Fishing charters available

General store offerings: Snacks and drinks Half Moon shirts Beach gear Local products Fishing gear and tackle and more to come!