How to choose a good marina without a huge price tag

The purchase of a boat is a huge investment. However, the expense doesn’t come from just buying the vessel. Instead, the real expense comes with the maintenance and storage of your new boat. Even though the upkeep is a big financial commitment, it’s important it’s done properly. After all, your new boat can go from great to sunk if not properly cared for. Therefore, it’s important to choose a marina wisely. Still, you don’t necessarily need a huge price tag to get a great facility. Here’s how to choose a marina perfect for you and your budget.

Age

            A brand-new marina never used before will most likely ask a lofty docking price. On the other hand, the oldest marina in the area will probably need some upgrades before it can safely house your boat. Try to pick a marina in between these two: not the newly built, but not the historic, either.

Conditions

            Again, be sure to choose a marina that’s practical, but also safe. Make sure conditions are up to standards. This means sturdy, fairly new docks, locks and safety equipment available, good lighting, secure cleats, etc. The presence and proper maintenance of all these elements will create for you a seamless and safe boating experience.

Amenities

            While some amenities like access to electrical hook-ups and fresh water are essential, the other bells and whistles, which come with a high-end marina, are not. Avoid docking where they offer unnecessary add-ons like swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, etc. since these marinas will come at a much higher price. Instead, make sure all the necessities are present for your boat to be safe and hassle-free, but without the extra fluff. After all, you’re there for your boat, not to sunbathe.

Accessibility

            This is perhaps the most important part of choosing the marina that’s right for you; the access the marina presents should be safe and convenient. You don’t need to choose the most scenic marina to benefit from its easy access both by boat and land. Therefore, be sure to choose a marina easy for you to get to by car and easy to leave by boat. You’ll maintain your boat more frequently, cut down on gas expenses and avoid an arduous and possibly dangerous route to open water.