Mucky Duck Update

Question

Are there any updates on the status of the Mucky Duck? Hoping they are in the process of rebuilding. Such an iconic spot loved by so many. ❤️

Answer

Good question. Yes — there are several meaningful updates on the status of the Mucky Duck on Captiva Island. Here’s the latest (2025), what has been rebuilt, and what concerns remain.

Recent Updates & Rebuild Status

The Mucky Duck sustained major damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Reconstruction is officially underway. Crews have laid a new foundation.
The owner — Andreas Bieri — is restoring the restaurant “as-is” (i.e., preserving the historic look) rather than elevating or significantly altering the layout.
They’ve cleared a key safety/design hurdle: a fire-safety layout for the kitchen has been reconfigured and approved.
The targeted reopening is now December 1, 2025, or by the end of 2025 — which would (if achieved) align nicely with Captiva’s high season, and they’re also eyeing the 50th anniversary for 2026.

Challenges & Concerns

A major issue: the beach renourishment project on Captiva has raised the dunes significantly.
- The Mucky Duck’s owner has publicly expressed concern that these taller dunes will block the restaurant’s iconic sunset view.
- According to CEPD (Captiva Erosion Prevention District), the dunes were built higher (compared to historic levels) to improve storm resilience and adapt to sea-level rise.
Multiple sources indicate the view from the patio may be significantly impacted — from some viewpoints you may no longer see the gulf as before.
Some community members are calling for post-completion modifications to the dune project to mitigate the loss of the view.

Community Sentiment

Locals and longtime visitors are generally supportive of the rebuild — many have said the Duck’s historic character is being preserved.
There’s a mix of optimism and sadness: while people are excited the Duck is coming back, some are disappointed that the sunset views (one of the Duck’s most beloved features) may never feel quite the same.
On social media (Reddit), people staying on Captiva report construction noise (e.g., machinery) related to the beach renourishment, but seem generally supportive: > “Work is progressing … I wouldn’t worry about the beach renourishment … they’ll still be great views.”

Bottom Line

Yes — the Mucky Duck is being rebuilt. The project is well underway, permits are secured, and a reopening is expected by late 2025. However, the character of the restaurant may change a bit: the elevated dunes may block some of those legendary sunset views that made the Duck so iconic.

It’s not fully “back yet,” but things are moving forward in a very committed way. For many, the rebuild is a hopeful sign that Captiva’s spirit is coming back. ❤️

Mucky Duck Update

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