The Benefits of Mooring at a Marina

From security to time savings, local marinas are one of the essential aspects of further enjoying the boating lifestyle.

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By Steve Fennell

Marinas are the ideal the home base for recreational boaters enjoying time on the water, whether you’re using a transient slip for a week of vacation or have one booked for the entire season. Although some boaters may consider a marina an added expense in addition to fuel, insurance, and annual maintenance, the many benefits certainly outweigh the cost, especially when you consider marina fees are less than a fraction of your overall investment.

Short of owning or renting waterfront property with an enclosed dock and lift, mooring your boat at a marina is a practical choice, and if you have been thinking about reserving a slip this season here are some top reasons to fuel your enthusiasm.

1. Marinas Keep Your Boat Safe

Many reputable marinas implement effective security measures to keep your boat safe from vandalism and theft. Outboard engines, trolling motors, electronics, fishing gear or even the boat itself are huge dollars signs and targets in the eyes of culprits. Locked gates to the slips or at the waterside entrances; patrolled security; or 12 to 24-hour camera monitoring are common benefits to ensure your vessel is safe all season. It also eliminates the worry-factor if you’re away from your boat for long periods or you’re a transient boater and not familiar with the immediate area. You just may sleep a little better, too.

2. Minimize Wear and Tear on your Boat

Keeping your boat at a marina reduces the chance of potential damage compared to storing it on a trailer and continually putting it in the water at a local launch ramp. Although towing does have its benefits, driving to a boat launch, putting it in the water, running it all day, then taking it out and hauling it home again increases the opportunity for Murphy’s Law to come into play. This is especially true if you’re new to boating and/or you encounter launch ramps with steep grades, lower than expected drafts, and rough gravel or dirt roads. While minor accidents can certainly cause dings, dents, or scratches, they do accumulate and may affect the condition of your boat and engine over time.

3. Increase Your Time on the Water

Vacation time and those moments on the water with family are important. It’s more than ideal just to simply load up your family, drive to the marina, untie the lines, and cruise out to open water. It’s quick, simple and allows you to get the most use out of your boat. It also allows offers the opportunity to go out for evening cruises or quick runs around the lake – no fuss, no muss.

4. Socialization

With a friendly atmosphere, marinas are great places to socialize, lend or receive boating advice, learn about the lake and water conditions, or just mix and mingle with other boaters. Many marinas also have events throughout the summer and on-site restaurants with entertainment to further enhance your time by the water.

5. Service and Convenience

From fuel to convenient parking to parts and storage, marinas are essentially a one-stop haven for recreational boaters. Many even offer designated areas to conduct DIY projects (rather than your garage), and expert staff are nearby to provide technical advice and provide service or maintenance.

The list of the benefits of mooring at a marina is extensive. It may initially appear as an added cost, but the reduced wear and tear costs associated with towing and launching, and overall enhanced boating experience, can make it a lifestyle bargain.