Hilton Head Marina Collapse Raises Safety Concerns

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Collapsed gangway at Hilton Head Marina with caution tape

News Summary

On March 12, 2025, a gangway at Hilton Head’s Shelter Cove Marina collapsed, leading to safety concerns about infrastructure maintenance. The incident resulted in 15 to 20 individuals falling into the water, with eight suffering minor injuries. This collapse raises alarms about the state of marina inspections, especially following a tragic dock collapse in Georgia that claimed seven lives last year. The responsibility for maintaining and inspecting the marina lies with the Palmetto Dunes Resort, and recent findings question the efficacy of existing safety regulations.

Hilton Head Marina Collapse Raises Safety Concerns

Hilton Head’s Shelter Cove Marina experienced a gangway collapse on March 12, 2025, prompting concerns over marina safety and infrastructure maintenance.

Incident Overview

The gangway incident involved:

15 to 20 individuals falling into the water.
Eight people suffered minor injuries, primarily scrapes and bruises, and were hospitalized.

Context

This collapse follows a tragic event in October 2024, where a dock collapse in Sapelo Island, Georgia claimed the lives of seven people.

Marina Ownership and Infrastructure

The infrastructure at Shelter Cove Marina, including the affected gangway, is owned and maintained by the Palmetto Dunes Resort. Built in 1983, it remains unclear if the gangway has been inspected or renovated recently.

Inspection Regulations

Key regulations regarding inspections include:

The Town of Hilton Head does not have jurisdiction over private marinas’ inspections.
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services oversees permitting and regulations but does not enforce building safety standards.
Inspections have typically focused on environmental rather than structural safety.

Additional Findings

Recent evaluations have shown the following:

The Harbour Town Yacht Basin has not been inspected by local or state agencies recently.
Inspections at the Palmetto Bay Marina are primarily concerned with environmental compliance.
In contrast, the C.C. Haigh Boat Landing receives inspections from Beaufort County Public Works, occurring bi-weekly or monthly.

Safety Precautions Post-Incident

Following the collapse, the affected gangway has been closed off with caution tape and signs indicating it is “not safe.”

Preliminary photographs suggested that structural failure may have stemmed from bolts failing against deteriorating concrete.

Future Actions

Authorities at both local and state levels are currently discussing responsibilities regarding the inspection and maintenance of docks and gangways to enhance safety measures in the area.