If you’re planning to build or upgrade a marina in Florida, you already know it’s not just another construction project. Between strict permitting rules, unpredictable coastal weather, and the need for durable, long-lasting materials, choosing the right marine construction company can make or break your project.
At Fender Marine, we’ve put together this guide to give you something more useful: real insight into the Florida marina construction market + what to look for + a breakdown of reputable companies you can realistically consider.
Let’s get into it.
How to Choose a Marina Construction Company in Florida.
Before you even look at names, here are the things that actually matter, the things people usually learn after a row of mistakes.
1. Experience with Florida’s regulations
Florida has layers of permitting:
- Florida DEP
- Army Corps of Engineers
- Local municipalities
- Environmental impact considerations
You want a builder who handles all of this for you, not someone who leaves you drowning in paperwork.
2. Engineering and materials that survive Florida weather
Saltwater, wake impact, storms, humidity… Florida is brutal.Look for builders using:
- Composite decking
- Marine-grade aluminum
- HDPE systems
- Reinforced piling setups
Cheap materials fail fast here.
3. A portfolio you can actually look at
Any good builder should be able to show you:
- Before/after marina builds
- Project photos
- Real client references
4. Clear communication and transparent pricing
A marina is not a one-day job. You’ll want a builder who:
- Explains timelines
- Breaks down costs
- Keeps you updated
- Offers post-build maintenance
Best Marina Construction Companies in Florida
1. Fender Marine Construction
Not to brag or anything…but for over 15 years, Fender Marine Construction in Orlando, Florida has become one of the leading experts for all types of marine projects.
At Fender Marine Construction, we don’t just build marinas; we bring your waterfront vision to life. Whether you want a simple dock, a full-scale marina, a boathouse with a lift, a seawall, or even a boardwalk, pier, bridge, or gazebo, we’ve got you covered.
We design and build custom docks (for residential or commercial properties), piers and boardwalks, seawalls and retaining walls, pile-driven foundations, cofferdams, boathouses with boat lifts, and more complex projects like bridges and waterfront amenities.
2. Atlantic Marine Construction
Atlantic Marine Construction has built a strong reputation for structures that hold up in Florida’s toughest conditions.
They’re a dependable choice if durability is your top priority. Their focus is mainly on seawalls and dock systems, and they’re known for emphasizing structural strength across both residential and commercial projects. If you’re looking for a company that prioritizes solid engineering over frills, Atlantic Marine is the kind of team that keeps things straightforward and built to last.
3. Midcoast Marine Group
Midcoast Marine Group is known for full-scale marine construction projects, including marinas, docks, seawalls, and shoreline stabilization.
They offer end-to-end solutions, making them a strong competitor for turnkey commercial jobs. If someone needs big-picture project management and complete marine infrastructure services,
4. Megalodon Marine Construction
Operating from Miami up through St. Augustine, Megalodon Marine handles docks, lifts, ramps, seawalls, and general waterfront builds.
Their focus is on durable, long-lasting residential and commercial projects. They’re especially relevant for clients on Florida’s Atlantic coast who need reliable construction without unnecessary extras.
5. Creative Dock Design
Creative Dock Design is a family-owned, certified waterfront construction business based in Eustis, Florida.
They build docks, floating docks, boat-houses with lifts, seawalls, and offer remodeling, repair, and upgrade services,including docks adaptation to changing water levels, metal roofing for boathouses, and custom dock extensions
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Dock Company in Florida
Choosing the right dock builder in Florida isn’t just about picking the company with the nicest photos or the lowest price.
Waterfront construction comes with real risks, poor materials, bad engineering, compliance issues, and costly repairs later.
Asking the right questions upfront helps you avoid all of that and gives you real confidence before signing anything.
Here are the key questions every homeowner or property manager should ask:
1. Are you fully licensed, insured, and permitted to work in my county?
This should always be your first question. Florida has strict rules for marine construction, and unlicensed builders can leave you with fines or a dock the county won’t approve.
2. How long have you been building docks in Florida specifically?
Experience in Florida’s environment matters; saltwater, hurricanes, wake activity, and tide changes aren’t things you want someone “learning on the job.”
3. What materials do you recommend, and why?
Pressure-treated wood, composite decking, aluminum framing, and concrete piles… each option has pros and cons. A good builder should explain what fits your water conditions, not just what’s cheapest.
4. Do you handle the entire permitting process?
Permitting can be confusing and slow if you’re not familiar with Florida DEP, county rules, or coastal zoning. A reputable company should manage this for you, start to finish.
5. Can I see examples of similar projects you’ve completed?
Not just a gallery, ask for local builds. Waterfront conditions vary by area, so real Florida references matter.
6. What’s your typical project timeline?
Dock construction can take weeks or month,s depending on approvals, materials, and weather. You want transparency, not vague promises.
7. How do you handle hurricanes or storm-resilient engineering?
Your dock should be built with Florida storms in mind. Ask what reinforcements they use, how piles are driven, and what options you have for extra durability.
8. What warranties do you offer?
Good companies stand behind their work on both materials and labor.
9. Who will be on-site managing the project?
A dedicated project manager means better communication and fewer surprises.
10. What maintenance will I need after installation?
A trustworthy builder won’t just sell you a dock; they’ll set clear expectations so it lasts longer and performs better.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dock company in Florida isn’t something you rush. With our coastlines, weather, permitting rules, and constant exposure to saltwater, your builder needs more than basic construction skills; they need true marine expertise.
When you compare companies, look past the photos and price tags and pay attention to experience, materials, engineering, and how well they understand your shoreline.
Take your time, ask the right questions, and choose a team that builds docks meant to last, because the water isn’t gentle, and your investment deserves better than good enough.
If you’re ready to explore what a well-designed dock can do for your property, Fender Marine is here to help you make it happen.
