Shell Marina

For boaters and marine enthusiasts along the Connecticut shoreline, particularly those navigating the picturesque Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, a reliable and efficient marine fueling station is just as crucial as a roadside gas station is for cars. It's about more than just filling up; it's about access to quality fuel, knowledgeable staff, and a smooth docking experience. In Old Lyme, CT, one establishment consistently praised for these very qualities is Shell Marina.

Shell Marina, located on Ferry Road, is a dedicated marine fuel and service station that understands the unique needs of boaters. Unlike conventional gas stations for automobiles, this facility is specifically designed to cater to vessels of all sizes, providing not only fuel but also a level of service and expertise that ensures a safe and pleasant stop. For Connecticut’s vibrant boating community, finding a marina that offers prompt, courteous, and knowledgeable assistance can make all the difference to a day on the water.

This article will provide an in-depth look at Shell Marina in Old Lyme, CT. We will explore its strategic waterside location, the specialized services it offers, and the standout features that have earned it glowing reviews from real customers. We'll also provide essential contact information, helping both local boaters and transient visitors plan their next stop with confidence. If you're a boater in Connecticut, understanding the offerings of Shell Marina can significantly enhance your time on the water.

Shell Marina is strategically located at 323 Ferry Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA. Its prime position on the Connecticut River makes it highly accessible by water for boats traveling to and from Long Island Sound. Ferry Road itself is a well-known access point to the waterfront in Old Lyme, ensuring that land-based visitors, or those needing to reach the marina by car, can do so easily.

For boaters, accessibility means a well-marked channel, ample dockage, and ease of approach. Customer reviews consistently highlight the marina's efficiency and the helpfulness of the "Dock staff," who are noted for moving fenders to the "right height when they see your boat coming in." This attention to detail significantly enhances the ease of docking, regardless of your vessel's size. The marina's location offers a protected anchorage, making it a desirable stop even in less favorable weather conditions. Its proximity to the Connecticut River allows for convenient access for those cruising the river or transitioning to and from Long Island Sound, making it an ideal refueling point for local Connecticut boaters and those navigating the Eastern seaboard.

It is important to note that while it is a "Shell" branded location, this specific facility is a marina primarily serving marine vessels, offering marine-grade fuels. It is not a typical roadside Shell gas station for automobiles.

Shell Marina in Old Lyme focuses on providing essential services specifically for the boating community. Based on customer reviews and general marina operations, their core offerings are centered around fueling and supporting docking needs.

• Marine Fuel: The primary service is providing gasoline (various octanes) and diesel fuel designed for marine engines. Waterway Guide fuel reports often list available grades like Regular Gas, Super Gas, and Diesel.
• Docking Assistance: Highly praised for its "Great Dock staff," the marina provides hands-on assistance with docking, including adjusting fenders and guiding boats in. This ensures a smooth and safe arrival and departure.
• Marine Resources Knowledge: Staff are described as "Knowledgeable of Marine Resources and Docking Operations," suggesting they can offer advice or direct boaters to other local marine services if needed.
• Prompt and Courteous Service: Reviews consistently mention "prompt and courteous" service, indicating a high level of professionalism from the dock staff.
• Slips and Moorings: While directly under "Shell Marina" is not explicitly stated to offer full-service slips beyond temporary fueling, marinas generally offer transient or seasonal slips and moorings for vessels. The Old Lyme Dock Company (which may be the operational entity at this address based on public information) lists 25 slips, 4 moorings, and 240 feet of linear docks.
• Restrooms and Showers: Marinas typically provide clean restroom and shower facilities for boaters, as noted in some related reviews for facilities at this address.
• Water Access: Dockside water is usually available, often free, for boaters to top off their freshwater tanks.

Shell Marina in Old Lyme distinguishes itself through several key features and operational highlights that are consistently lauded by its patrons, making it a preferred stop for many boaters in Connecticut.

• Exceptional Dock Staff: This is the most prominent highlight. Customers repeatedly commend the "Excellent service!" and "Great Dock staff!" who are "always accessible, accommodating and Knowledgeable." Their proactive approach, like adjusting fenders for approaching boats, creates a welcoming and efficient experience.
• Efficiency and Promptness: Reviewers describe the service as "Very efficient" and "Prompt," which is crucial for boaters on a schedule or navigating challenging conditions.
• Knowledge of Marine Operations: The staff's expertise in "Marine Resources and Docking Operations" ensures that boaters receive reliable information and assistance, building trust and confidence.
• Prime Marine Location: Situated on the Connecticut River with easy access to Long Island Sound, the marina offers a convenient and strategic refueling point for a wide range of marine travel.
• Competitive Fuel Prices: While prices fluctuate, some related reviews for the Old Lyme Dock Company at this address indicate competitive pricing for marine fuel, stating "Fuel prices lowest I've seen in months" (as of a past review).
• Ample Dock Frontage: For skippers of larger vessels, related information suggests the Old Lyme Dock offers "the most frontage of any of the other local fuel docks!", making it easier to maneuver and secure larger boats for fueling.
• Clean Facilities: Related reviews mention "Clean bathroom and shower," indicating a commitment to maintaining comfortable facilities for transient boaters.

While specific, ongoing promotional programs for Shell Marina are not explicitly detailed, marine fuel stations and marinas often have ways of providing value to their customers. Based on industry practices and related information for this location (Old Lyme Dock Company) from public sources like Waterway Guide, potential offers might include:

• Volume Discounts: Larger vessels or those requiring significant fuel quantities might be eligible for volume-based discounts. It's often advisable to call ahead to inquire about such potential savings.
• Cash Discounts: It is not uncommon for marine fuel docks to offer a slightly lower price per gallon for customers paying with cash or a specific Shell Marine card if available. One related review for this address mentions "10 cents discount for cash or Shell Card."
• Sea Tow/TowBoatUS Discounts: Members of marine assistance programs like Sea Tow or TowBoatUS sometimes receive fuel discounts at participating marinas. One public report mentions "$ .10 off per gallon" for Sea Tow members.
• Seasonal Promotions: Marinas might offer seasonal incentives, perhaps during the off-peak boating season or for winterization services.

To learn about any current promotions or specific offers, the best approach for boaters is to contact Shell Marina directly by phone or VHF radio as they approach the dock. This allows for real-time information on fuel prices, available discounts, and docking arrangements.

For direct inquiries, fuel pricing, docking assistance, or any other needs, boaters can easily reach Shell Marina using the following contact details:

Address: 323 Ferry Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA

Phone: (860) 434-2267

The mobile phone number for convenience is +1 860-434-2267. Boaters often also use VHF Channel 9 when approaching for docking assistance.

For the vibrant boating community of Connecticut, particularly those based in or frequenting the lower Connecticut River and Long Island Sound, Shell Marina in Old Lyme is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its suitability for locals, and indeed for any boater, stems from its unwavering commitment to excellent service, efficient operations, and specialized understanding of marine needs.

The core of its appeal lies in its "Great Dock staff" who consistently receive accolades for being "Excellent," "efficient," "prompt," and "courteous." This level of personal attention, from skillfully adjusting fenders to providing knowledgeable insights on marine resources, transforms a routine fuel stop into a seamless and pleasant experience. For boaters navigating potentially challenging currents or tight schedules, having reliable and proactive assistance upon arrival and departure is invaluable. This professionalism ensures safety and reduces stress, allowing locals to maximize their enjoyment of Connecticut's beautiful waterways.

Furthermore, Shell Marina’s strategic location on Ferry Road provides convenient access by both land and water, making it a practical choice for topping off fuel tanks before a day on the Sound or after a long cruise upriver. While primarily a marine fuel station, its association with the broader operations at this address (Old Lyme Dock Company) suggests access to well-maintained facilities, including potentially clean restrooms and ample docking frontage, accommodating a wide range of vessels. The focus on marine fuel, rather than automotive, perfectly aligns with the specific needs of the local boating community. In essence, Shell Marina offers more than just fuel; it provides a comprehensive, professional, and friendly service environment that truly caters to the unique demands of Connecticut boaters, making it an indispensable part of their maritime life.