Overview: Nestled in the scenic canyon carved by the Tuolumne River, Don Pedro Lake is one of California’s most cherished recreational gems. With nearly 160 miles of shoreline and 13,000 surface acres of water, the lake is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water sports. Recognizing the need to modernize and expand the marina facilities to cater to evolving market demands, Suntex Marina Investors, LLC embarked on an ambitious $8 million renovation and expansion project. Spanning four years from 2018 to 2021, the project transformed the marina into a flagship property, setting a new standard for marina operations in the region. In our continuous pursuit of innovation, safety, and exceptional experiences on the water, David Collum partnered with Tiger Docks to undertake a comprehensive, multi-year marina modernization initiative. Spanning four distinct phases from 2018 through 2022, each milestone was carefully designed to enhance both capability and size while keeping the marina open and operational throughout the upgrades and construction efforts.

Don Pedro Marina, 2020

Phase One: Laying the Foundation for a Modernized Marina

The journey began in 2018 under the expert direction of Tiger Docks, focusing on replacing the aging B-Dock. This initial phase introduced a 56-slip docking system capable of accommodating various boat sizes. Central to this upgrade was a 12-foot-wide, 290-foot-long floating ADA-compliant walkway, ensuring safe and easy access for all guests. Reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility, the use of enclosed floats instead of open foam minimized the marina’s ecological impact. In addition to modernizing the facility’s core infrastructure, these improvements prioritized a better experience for boaters and marina visitors alike, breathing new life into an old asset.

Phase Two: Premium Amenities and Streamlined Operations

Building upon the momentum of Phase One, Phase Two ushered in a range of premium enhancements. The existing A-Dock was replaced with spacious 50 12' x 26' covered slips, offering customers added protection and comfort for their vessels. Meanwhile, upgrades to the fuel system and key modifications within the ship store transformed foot traffic flow, reducing congestion and significantly improving safety. Extending the shore access walkways and fortifying the anchoring system further ensured structural integrity for years to come. This critical phase successfully laid the groundwork for a more efficient and guest-friendly marina experience.

Phase Three: Expanding Capabilities Through Innovation

Phase Three marked a significant leap in capacity and technology. A split-roof rental operations pier was constructed, along with forty new 12' x 24' slips and twenty 12' x 26' slips. The addition of a 237-foot rental dock provided vital space for houseboats and other rental vessels, meeting the growing demand for on-water entertainment. Technological advancements played a pivotal role in this phase: HyPower’s PowerPort and EnergyMate power pedestals, equipped with MarineSynch remote utility monitoring, elevated both convenience and safety to modern standards. These innovations solidified the marina’s reputation as a forward-thinking, top-tier facility.

Phase Four: Realizing a Vision of Excellence

Phase Four brought the marina’s transformation to completion, exemplifying the dedication and expertise of all involved. Enhancements during this phase included further expansion of docking capabilities and the integration of additional advanced technologies. This phase cemented Don Pedro Lake Marina as a benchmark for excellence in marina operations.

Today, the renovated Don Pedro Lake Marina stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the marina industry. This project underscores Suntex’s commitment to creating world-class marina experiences and showcases their ability to execute complex, phased implementations with precision and care.