A Guide To Boat Storage And Marinas
Boat owners can choose between storing their boat at home or in self storage, using dry storage on a rack, cradle or trailer, or keeping it at a marina in either wet storage in a pen or berth, or dry storage out of the water, with the right choice depending on cost, convenience and the amenities a marina offers.
A cheap and very common way of boat storage is storing the boat yourself, at your home or at a self storage facility. Dry storage, where the boat is stored in a rack, cradle or trailer out of the water, is another common option, with forklifts often used to lift and lower boats in the storage racks. Marinas typically offer both wet storage, where the boat sits in the water in a boat pen or berth, and dry storage options. When choosing a marina, there are many factors to consider, and it is important to find a place that has the amenities to suit your needs and wants.
Storing Your Boat Yourself
A cheap and very common way of boat storage is storing the boat yourself, at your home or at a self storage facility.
Dry Storage
Dry storage is where the boat is stored in a rack, cradle or trailer out of the water. Forklifts can be used to lift and lower boats in the storage racks. If you are considering a more specialised dry storage option such as an air dock, boat lift or sea pen, see our guide to boat storage solutions which covers each option in detail.
Marina Storage Options
Marinas often give you two options of indoor and/or outdoor boat storage. Wet storage is where the boat sits in the water in a boat pen or berth. Dry storage, as above, is where the boat is stored in a rack, cradle or trailer out of the water, with forklifts used to lift and lower boats in the storage racks. Some marina berths also accommodate liveaboards, and if you are considering living on your boat full time it is worth confirming whether your preferred marina permits permanent residency and what additional fees may apply.
How to Choose the Right Marina or Yacht Club for Your Needs?
When choosing a marina, there are many factors to consider. There are many marinas, but not all of them may be the right fit for you, so it is important to find a place that has the amenities to suit your needs and wants. If you need to move the boat to reach your preferred marina or storage facility, see our guide on preparing your boat for transport for what to sort out before the boat goes on a trailer or a carrier.
Check out Marina Berths, Pen and Moorings For Rent or For Sale
How To Find The Ideal Marina or Yacht Club Near You
There are many marinas, but not all of them may be the right fit for you. It is important to find a place that has the amenities to suit you needs and wants.
