Marina Tips For First-Time Yacht Owners
For those who enjoy being out on the water, storage for your yacht can be equally as important as where you float your yacht. Marinas offer upkeep and safety options that most owners can not offer themselves. Keeping a vessel in top working order can mean a lot of manual labor. Maintenance, repair, and security are just a few of the most important benefits provided by a marina.
Communicate and scope out the scene.
Before even considering a marina, communicate with their employees. Schedule a time to visit several locations in the given area, and be prepared to ask questions. Make a list if need be. Check marina rates and special charges. Prices may vary widely even in a similar location. Boat slip prices should be considered along with amenities provided and other features offered when making a final decision. It is worth paying a little more for a more suitable set of facilities.
photo courtesy of boatactuator.com
What type of maintenance does the marina provide?
It is very important to ask the right questions when seeking out a marina home for your new yacht. A location that offers the assistance of on-hand mechanics and technicians is a pearl. Some locations offer pressure washing, fiberglass repair, painting, wash, wax, haul-out, and drop-in services if needed. Decide which services are most important or find a location offering them all. Either way, maintenance is important and must be addressed when choosing a marina.
What type of amenities and dockside services does the location provide?
Depending on the location of the marina, a wide variety of amenities and dockside services may be offered for slip tenants. A few services that are necessary for most water warriors are electricity, pump-out services, waste disposal, WiFi, and cable access.
It may be necessary that the marina be closer to some comforting amenities such as restaurants and bars. Does the chosen location have access to a grocery store? It there a doctor or pharmacy nearby for health issues?
When you find the right price range, the search will come down to the offered benefits of the marina.
What type of security measures are in place?
Prioritizing safety is typically first on the list when choosing a new home for your yacht. When prospecting for a suitable marina home, closely note the organization’s security measures. Do they have plenty of surveillance? Is there gated security around the perimeter?
Traffic around the arena should also be considered for your and your yacht’s safety. Heavy traffic areas can put you at a higher risk of collision with another vessel. Fire prevention and protection from natural elements should be considered as well. Overall, the decision is yours alone. Choose wisely, and happy floating!
Author: Anna Johansson
