Headquartered together in Charleston, South Carolina, PORT 32 Marinas and Acme Marinas have announced the merger of their portfolios. The deal creates an expanded operating platform across established coastal locations in the United States, including major East Coast and Florida markets.

Aerial view of PORT 32 Lighthouse Point Marina

The combined portfolio holds around 4,000 slips across 17 locations. PORT 32’s properties span Palm Beach Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Tampa, Marco Island, Cape Coral, Tierra Verde, Jacksonville, Lighthouse Point and Morehead City.

Backed by Koch Real Estate Investments and founded in 2021, Acme covers Sag Harbor Yacht Yard, Annapolis Landing Marina, Sanibel Marina, MacDougalls’ Cape Cod Marine Service, Falmouth Marine Yachting Center, Falmouth Ferry, Coinjock Marina & Restaurant and Vineyard Haven Marina.

PORT 32 chief executive officer Austin Schell will remain in the role following the merger, leading the combined organisation. Members of the Acme team will also stay in leadership positions, with Stephen Shaw as chief investment officer and Shelby Tucker as chief financial and chief administrative officer.

Acme Sanibel Marina on Florida’s Gulf Coast

Schell commented: “The combination with Acme Marinas accelerates our vision to build a leading coastal marina platform. By bringing together complementary portfolios, additional talent and a shared commitment to service excellence, we are creating a stronger organisation that will deliver greater value to our members, shareholders and employees.”

Co-presidents Tucker and Shaw said: “What drew us to PORT 32 was the quality of its marinas, the strength and complementary nature of its team, and its high standards for customer service. Their focus on infrastructure quality, operational excellence and the boating experience made this the right combination for our portfolio and for the members who call our marinas home.”

Rendering of the PORT 32 Palm Beach Gardens marina redevelopment project

Lazard Frères & Co. LLC acted as exclusive financial adviser to PORT 32 Marinas, with legal counsel provided by Latham & Watkins LLP. Moelis & Company LLC acted as exclusive financial adviser to Acme Marinas, with legal counsel provided by Jones Day.

Images from PORT 32.