About Boat Storage

There are many factors to consider before buying a boat. A prospective boat owner must determine his needs and budget. He must have a way to haul the new boat and have a place to store it when it is not on the water. Each storage option comes with advantages and disadvantages.

Dry Storage

Many marinas and resorts offer dry storage for boats. Typically, dry storage is a large enclosed parking lot, where boats are parked and stored. The grounds may be paved or dirt, and the facility sometimes has security. While dry storage can be inexpensive, the stored boats are vulnerable to vandalism and the elements. Boat upholstery will deteriorate at a higher rate when stored outside, even when it has a boat cover. Prices vary considerably, even within the same region. In Lake Havasu City, Arizona, this type of storage ranges anywhere between $55 to $100 a month.

Boat Slip

Marina boat slips are another storage option. Many marinas have long waiting lists, and it may take months, or even years, to finally get a slip. Storing your boat in a boat slip eliminates hauling and launching time. One advantage to storing the boat in a slip is the convenience and ease in using the craft. Yet, storing the boat in the water will expose it to the same problems as dried storage, plus the hull of the boat will need to be cleaned more frequently due to algae build-up. Slip rental prices vary by season and region. In Lake Havasu City, Arizona, a boat slip for a 30-foot craft costs around $200 for a winter month and $380 for a summer month.

Private Docks

Some waterways have private docks with boat houses and boat lifts. Similar to a garage for a car, these are enclosed boat docks that protect your boat from the elements. Some boat docks offer boat lifts, mechanical devices that lift boats out of the water when not in use. Many waterways do not accommodate these types of storage, and the facility can be expensive. Some private docks may simply be covered and include a lift, but don't provide a "boat house." A boat lift for a ski boat begins at around $6,000.

Storage Units

Many boat owners store their boats in garages, under awnings or along the sides of their homes. Some communities have restrictions on what can be parked in visible sight, and some private residences do not offer sufficient room. Storage units or storage condos can be rented or purchased to be used as boat storages. These enclosed buildings, similar to garages, offer greater protection from the environment. These complexes are often located near lakes or bodies of water, or en route to recreational areas. Storage unit prices vary depending on the region and size. Monthly rental prices range between $100 to $600 or more.

Concierge Storage

Professional boat storage facilities are also available, which offer both dry and enclosed storage. Some of these facilities provide concierge services; they launch your boat in the water when you want to use it, and later remove and return it to storage. The services include washing the boat, additional watercraft repair and maintenance services. They are often located near recreational waterways.

Resources

• Boat Storage Places
• Boat Storage