Before you decide on a marina, weigh the specifications, features, and amenities each one offers. Visit the ones on your shortlist and get a feel for them.
Start by checking how well they can physically accommodate your boat, including how much a slip costs and the waitlist. Also, ask about their overnight protection and storm procedures.
Cost
Depending on where you live, the marina where you dock is often a big part of your boating budget. It is, therefore, essential to weigh all the options and costs to ensure you are getting the best value.
Generally, marinas like GLYS charge by foot for dockage and may have additional charges such as electric (either flat or metered) or a mooring fee. Many marinas also have different rates for those who live aboard or are cruising long-term and others who are storing their boats.
Some more upscale marinas will have showers and laundry facilities for those who live on their boat. It is an excellent convenience to jump off the boat and enjoy a hot shower after spending all day on the lake! Ask the marinas on your list if these amenities are included in the dockage rate. Also, check to see if they have specific dinghy docks and how they handle dinghy parking and securing.
Amenities
Many marina amenities can set it apart from its competitors, boost member retention, foster a sense of community, and enhance property value. In addition to providing well-maintained facilities, these amenities should be cost-effective and easy for members to use.
For example, a good marina should offer a clean and spacious boat storage area that can handle vessels up to 150 feet long and have enough space for trailers. It should also have adequate docking space for busy weekends and peak season. It’s also essential to make sure the docks are in good condition. There’s nothing worse than tripping over rusty nails or slipping on wobbly finger piers.
A marina should also have a convenient, on-demand, and free WiFi service for boaters to stay connected. It should also have a pool for hot summer days and provide a variety of recreational activities like water skis so boaters can have an unforgettable experience at the marina.
Convenience
While most people think of marinas as boat berthing spots, they are much more. Fuel stations, new and used boat dealerships, storage facilities, repair shops, rental locations, and restaurants exist. Providing these amenities to your customers is the best way to make their stay at the marina feel like a vacation.
Dock and Gangway Maintenance
Keeping a clean marina is essential for safety reasons. Ensure that all trash is promptly removed and that docks and gangways are regularly inspected for structural integrity, rust, or other problems. If any issues are found, they should be addressed quickly to avoid injuries from slip-and-fall accidents.
Additionally, marinas that optimize their online presence via search engine optimization (SEO) will have more visibility among potential boaters and attract more business. Effective SEO strategies are designed to solve a boater’s pain points and help them find the right solutions for their needs. For example, a marina providing boaters with an easy way to purchase gas for their boats will improve customer satisfaction.
Safety
The safety of your boat is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a marina. Some marinas will have extra measures to protect your boat from the elements, like a breakwater, a protective levee, or a dock built from composite materials rather than wood, which tends to rot faster. Others will provide security measures like a gated entrance, surveillance cameras, and security patrols.
You will also want to consider whether the marina has amenities that you may be interested in, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and laundry facilities, as well as whether it offers on-site pump-out service, high-speed WiFi, showers/toilets, pet areas, and refueling stations. These services can make your boating experience much more enjoyable and convenient.
