1976 Jorgensen owned Holly and Bluff dogs (1).jpg

Holly Bluff Resort Marina is dedicated to Rick and Judy Armstrong - in honor of their 30 year legacy on the St. Johns River. Enjoy learning about our history and special thank you to each of you who’ve made it possible all these years.

1972: The Beginning, Holly and Bluff

Terry and Dede Jorgensen bought the riverfront property from Green Valley School in 1972 and created “Holly Bluff Marina”, named after their beloved dogs (pictured below).

Circa 1972!

Terry Jorgensen at the gas pump.

The Jorgensen family with their two dogs, Holly and Bluff.

The Jorgensen family eventually sold the marina to a company that specialized in houseboat rentals. “I remember helping move all the boats around. There used to be so many here — all lined up along the dock — it was crazy!” recalled longtime Holly Bluff friend Bruce.

Take a trip back to the 1980s with timeless news coverage in the Miami Herald and Palm Beach Post highlighting the rise of houseboat rentals on the St. Johns River ⬇️

Courtesy of The Miami Herald

Photo Credit: Florida Memory

Courtesy of The Palm Beach Post

1992: The Armstrong Era

Rick and Judy Armstrong moved their houseboat operation all the way from Kentucky and eventually landed at Holly Bluff. Over the next three decades, they welcomed travelers from near and far, and their marina became a place where crew members, neighbors, and guests all felt like family. “So many crew and customer lives were positively affected in really personal ways” said their daughter, Jen.

Rick at Holly Bluff in 1992. So many would stop by to see Rick and talk about everything from boat challenges to life challenges.

On the dock with the old restaurant pictured in the background!

Go Vacations used to operate out of Holly Bluff Marina prior to the Armstrong's ownership.

In 1996, the restaurant caught fire and was completely destroyed.

Beyond showing folks a slower way of life on the beautiful St. Johns River with their houseboat rentals, the Armstrongs gave advice, meals, shelter, and quiet acts that changed lives of many. Rick and Judy sold in 2023 after 30 incredible years. Holly Bluff feels like home to so many because of them. 💙

The Armstrong Family

2013 Holly Bluff Crew

That one time NASCAR called and wanted a houseboat in the middle of Lake Lloyd for the Daytona 500.

Derby Party! Judy would cook incredible food for everyone to enjoy.

2025: Holly Bluff Is Family-Owned Again

Meet the Millers

Lifelong boaters Tim and Kassie Miller found Holly Bluff and never looked back. In February 2025, they officially took the helm, excited to restore a local treasure and carry it into a new era. “As we upgrade our facilities and fleet, we’re incredibly proud to honor the Armstrongs and what they built, while embracing new opportunities for our community to enjoy,” said Tim.

In doing so, the Millers have dedicated Holly Bluff Resort Marina to Rick and Judy Armstrong. “Their 30 years of hard work and love for this community are what led my family and me to this beautiful property,” Tim explained.

With a long career in construction, the Millers are excited to renovate each houseboat one-by-one.