“Mindful consideration should be taken when picking out the right marina to rent a slip for your boat,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.
Selecting the right marina makes a significant impact on your overall boating experience. A good marina will have a vacation vibe but also feel like home. It should provide you the peace of mind you need when you cannot be on your boat.
To help you in making a decision, we have created a list of what to look for when you are deciding on a marina for your boat. Location and costs are important as well as availability, amenities and services offered by the marina.
Location
Would you prefer something close to home, or is a little distance, ok? Does the neighborhood feel safe or dicey? For convenience, find a place close to shopping and a grocery store. Also consider traffic and accessibility. If you select a high traffic area, getting in and out could test your patience.
Costs
Finding a marina that fits your budget in an important part of the process. Cost is determined on the size of your craft, location, accessibility, amenities and the condition of the marina. The more luxurious, the higher the cost. Sailing Magazine examines the differences between dockage options.
- Moorings are cheaper than slips, but they are more vulnerable to weather hazards and damage from other boats.
- Slips offer more protection from physical damage.
- Residential moorings are in good condition but lack privacy and are pricey.
- Public docks are less expensive but they offer less security.
- Private marinas are high quality but come at a cost.
Amenities
“Certain amenities should be on your checklist,” says Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency. Required amenities should include, electrical hook-ups, fresh water, dock carts and boxes, private lockers, laundry facilities, trash receptacles, a dinghy dock and convenient parking. If you are interested in a little more luxury, look for private showers, swimming pools, spa, tennis courts, restaurants and a club house. The BoatUS Foundation also stress the importance of selecting a marina that is clean to reduce their environmental impact.
Security/ Services
You not only want to protect your vessel with the proper boat insurance but appropriate security is a must. Look for a facility with 24-hour surveillance, well-lit parking, flood lighting, electric, lockable gates, CCTV surveillance and security patrol.
While you pay more money for services, it is nice to have a marina staffed with professional boat mechanics, helpful dock hands, cleaning crews and a professional staff.
Contact GreatFlorida Insurance for all your boat insurance needs, we cover all types of vessels.
