Beyond the cleanliness of the marina, it’s also fuel prices that attract customers. Anyone who boats in or around Chicago knows that gas prices are a bit higher than, say, in Indiana. Since Hammond Marina is located on the state line of Illinois and Indiana, it’s able to offer Indiana fuel prices at a lower rate. Add into the mix the marina’s extended hours and location, and it makes the perfect stop for boaters traveling the Great Loop.
A Look Back
Twenty-five years ago, Mayor Thomas McDermott, Sr. envisioned the neglected Lake Michigan waterfront in Hammond becoming a recreational getaway. And so, the Hammond Marina and the Hammond Port Authority were developed under his watch.
The original marina consisted of 1,100 slips, but when the Horseshoe Casino came along and quickly expanded, the slips were cut back to 918. Today, the marina’s slips accommodate both seasonal slip holders and transients.
The current mayor, Mayor Thomas McDermott, Jr., who happens to be the former mayor’s son, has continued his father’s vision by making the area a true recreational destination. Along with the boat slips, the marina has a protected bird sanctuary, a clean beach staffed by lifeguards and scenic walking trails.
Lots to Do
Since Hammond Marina is just a hop, skip and jump away from one of the largest cities in the country, there’s never a shortage of things to do outside of the marina. But for those who would rather avoid the hustle and bustle of city life, the marina offers boaters a variety of activities during the season.
The Horseshoe Casino is on the marina’s property and features many fine restaurants, concerts and, of course, gambling. The nearby town of Whiting, Indiana, has several shops, restaurants and a movie theater. The Lost Marsh Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course, is managed by the port authority.
Wolf Lake Memorial Park has fishing, paddle sports, windsurfing, bike and walking trails, picnic shelters and much more. All of these venues are located within 2 miles of the marina, which provides a shuttle to and from these destinations on Saturdays.
Hammond Marina
701 Casino Center Drive
Hammond, IN 46320
(219) 659-7678
marina@hammondmarina.com
www.hammondmarina.com
Hours: Open daily from May 1 through October 31, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Fuel: Gas and diesel available
Electric: 30/50 amp
Amenities: Water, ice, phone, pumpout, handicap accessible, 24-hour security, restrooms, showers, laundry, launch ramp, mast stepping, ship store, deli, groceries, winter storage, yacht club, boat wash area, sailing lessons, secure parking, marine supplies, fishing platforms, bird sanctuary, beach, pet friendly and electric car charging station.
VHF Channel: 9
Author: Heather Ervin is the associate editor of HeartLand Boating
