Menu
Welcome to The Boathouse Riverfront in Palatka, Florida—a place where history meets modern recreation along the beautiful St. Johns River.
The Palatka Riverfront has long been a focal point of community life, tracing its roots to the bustling times when the river was the lifeline of trade, transportation, and leisure. Today, the Mary Lawson Brown Marina, renamed to honor Palatka’s longest-serving commissioner, serves as a gateway for both local and visiting boaters to experience the river’s charm. The marina, located at 319 River Street, is managed by the neighboring Palatka Boathouse Marina which has been a cornerstone of the Riverfront for over a century. The Riverfront continues to be a hub of activity, offering transient docking facilities, a bait and tackle shop, river cruises, eco tours, boat and watersports rentals with planned future expansions to provide a coffee and ice cream shop and food concessions.
Palatka’s riverfront is also steeped in fishing history, particularly with its association to bass fishing. Historically, Palatka was known for attracting famous personalities, including sports legends like Babe Ruth, who came for the world-class fishing expeditions. This tradition of fishing is closely linked to Noah’s Ark, a unique vessel built by Noah Tilghman in 1929. This three-deck wooden boat became famous for its luxurious excursions along the St. Johns River, offering passengers a chance to experience the area’s exceptional bass fishing.
Thanks to community efforts, including grants for boat ramp improvements and a dedicated restoration project for Noah’s Ark, there is a strong emphasis on preserving Palatka’s rich maritime heritage. The boat ramp and marina improvements are part of the city’s broader vision to enhance the riverfront and make it a welcoming space for locals and tourists alike.
As you explore the Boathouse Riverfront, you will be stepping into a living history—a place where the legacy of fishing charters, community, and the natural beauty of the St. Johns River are celebrated. Whether you’re here to boat, fish, or simply enjoy the view, you’ll find that The Boathouse continues to be a vital part of Palatka’s connection to the water.