Captain Dick's Marina in Calabash: Boat Rentals, Fishing, and Waterfront Dining

What Captain Dick's Marina Offers

Captain Dick's Marina sits on the Calabash River in Calabash, North Carolina, just across the state line from South Carolina's Brunswick County. The marina rents fishing boats, pontoons, and deck boats by the hour or day, operates a full-service fuel dock, and runs a seafood restaurant on the property. Most visitors come for the fishing—the Calabash River and nearby Cape Fear River system hold Spanish mackerel, flounder, and drum depending on the season—but the marina also serves as a launch point for casual cruising and sightseeing along the waterway.

The marina operates year-round and can accommodate boats up to roughly 40 feet at its slips. If you're traveling from South Carolina, it's about 90 minutes from Myrtle Beach and roughly two hours from Wilmington. The location puts you in range of both river fishing and ocean access through the Intracoastal Waterway.

Key Takeaways

• Captain Dick's rents fishing boats, pontoons, and deck boats by the hour or full day, with fuel and ice available at the dock.
• The marina sits on the Calabash River, which connects to the Cape Fear River system and offers seasonal fishing for mackerel, flounder, and drum.
• A seafood restaurant on the property serves lunch and dinner, so you can eat without leaving the marina.
• The marina is located in Calabash, North Carolina, about 90 minutes from Myrtle Beach and accessible year-round.

Boat Rentals and What to Expect

Captain Dick's rents several types of boats suited to different activities. Fishing boats are typically center console or open designs with rod holders and fish-finding equipment. Pontoons offer more space and shade, making them popular for families or groups who want to cruise rather than fish. Deck boats split the difference—they have an open fishing area but also a cabin with seating and shade.

Rentals are priced by the hour or by the day. You'll need a valid driver's license and a boating safety certificate or the willingness to take a brief orientation from the marina staff. Fuel is not always included in the rental price, so confirm what you're paying for before you book. The marina provides life jackets, and you're responsible for returning the boat with a full fuel tank or paying an overage charge.

Weather and water conditions can change quickly on coastal rivers. If you're not an experienced boater, ask the marina staff about current conditions and safe routes before you leave the dock. The Calabash River is relatively protected, but the Cape Fear River and ocean access require more caution, especially in wind or rough water.

Fishing from the Marina

The Calabash River and Cape Fear River system hold fish year-round, though the species and bite change with the season. Spanish mackerel run strong in spring and fall. Flounder are present most of the year but bite best in cooler months. Drum and other species are available depending on the time of year and water temperature.

If you rent a boat, you'll need a North Carolina fishing license unless you're fishing from the boat's deck without a rod in your hand. South Carolina residents can purchase a short-term license online or at the marina if they have one available. Bring your own tackle or ask the marina whether rentals include basic rods and reels—policies vary.

The marina can also connect you with charter captains who know the local waters and can take you to productive spots. A guided charter is more expensive than renting a boat on your own, but it removes the navigation and fish-finding work and puts you with someone who knows what's biting on any given day.

The Restaurant and Waterfront Dining

Captain Dick's operates a seafood restaurant on the marina grounds with views of the Calabash River. The menu focuses on local catch—shrimp, flounder, and other fish—prepared simply. You can eat at the bar, at tables inside, or on a deck overlooking the water. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days, though hours vary seasonally.

The restaurant is open to the public, not just marina customers. It's a casual spot, not fine dining, and the draw is fresh seafood and the waterfront setting rather than elaborate preparation. If you're renting a boat for the day, you can return to the marina for a meal without having to leave the property.

Fuel, Ice, and Marina Services

Captain Dick's operates a full-service fuel dock with gasoline and diesel. Ice is available for purchase, which matters if you're fishing and want to keep your catch fresh. The marina also has a ship's store with basic supplies—sunscreen, snacks, drinks, and fishing tackle—though selection is limited. For major repairs or service, you may need to contact a larger facility, but the marina can handle routine maintenance and minor issues.

Parking is available for vehicles and trailers. If you're launching your own boat rather than renting, you can use the ramp and pay a launch fee. Overnight slip rentals are available if you want to stay on the water.

Getting There and Planning Your Visit

Captain Dick's Marina is located at 910 Nance Street in Calabash, North Carolina 28467. From Myrtle Beach, take US 17 North toward North Carolina; the drive is roughly 90 minutes. From Wilmington, take US 17 South; it's about two hours. GPS coordinates and online maps will get you to the property, though cell service can be spotty near the water.

The marina is open year-round, but weather and water conditions vary. Winter months are quieter and cooler but still fishable. Spring and fall are peak seasons for both fishing and boating. Summer brings heat and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Call ahead to confirm hours, boat availability, and current conditions before you make the drive.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Even on cool days, sun reflection off the water intensifies UV exposure. If you're fishing, bring or rent polarized sunglasses to cut glare and see into the water. Seasickness medication is worth considering if you're prone to motion sickness and plan to venture into rougher water.

Nearby Attractions in Calabash

Calabash is known as the "Seafood Capital of the World," and the town has numerous seafood restaurants beyond Captain Dick's. Many are casual waterfront spots similar in style to the marina restaurant. The Calabash area also has small shops, a historic downtown, and access to nearby beaches and nature preserves.

If you're making a day trip from South Carolina, you can combine a morning or afternoon at the marina with a meal in town and exploration of the local waterfront. The area is quieter and less developed than Myrtle Beach, which appeals to visitors looking for a slower pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boating license to rent a boat at Captain Dick's?

North Carolina requires a boating safety certificate for anyone born after January 1, 1988. If you don't have one, the marina can provide a brief orientation, or you can take a course online beforehand. A valid driver's license is required for all rentals.

Can I bring my own boat and launch from the marina?

Yes. Captain Dick's has a boat ramp and charges a launch fee. Overnight slip rentals are available if you want to leave your boat at the marina. Call ahead to confirm availability and pricing.

What's the best time of year to fish from the marina?

Spring and fall offer the most consistent fishing for Spanish mackerel and other species. Flounder bite well in cooler months. Summer is slower and hotter, but fish are still present. Call the marina for current conditions and what's biting before you visit.

Is the restaurant open year-round?

The restaurant operates year-round but hours vary by season. Winter hours may be shorter than summer hours. Call ahead to confirm the restaurant is open on the day you plan to visit.

How far is Captain Dick's from Myrtle Beach?

The marina is roughly 90 minutes north of Myrtle Beach via US 17. It's about two hours from Wilmington, North Carolina. GPS and online maps will provide real-time directions based on traffic.