Yacht Marina Selection: What to Look For

Marina selection affects your yacht's depreciation, your insurance rates, and your overall experience. Choose carefully.

Marina types

**Public marina** Government-operated. Lower rates. Often older facilities. Long waitlists for desirable berths.

**Private marina** Commercial operation. Modern facilities. Higher rates. Better service.

**Yacht club** Membership-based. Best amenities. Often exclusive. Initiation fees plus ongoing dues.

**Mooring field** Anchored buoys offshore. Cheapest option. Boat-by-dinghy to shore. Better for sailing vessels.

Key marina features to evaluate

**Berth type** - Slip: Boat backed in, easier to load - Side-tie: Boat alongside dock, easier docking - Med-mooring: Stern-to with anchor (common in Mediterranean)

**Depth at low tide** Critical for deep-draft vessels. Always verify before committing.

**Protection from weather** Marina layout, breakwaters, prevailing winds. Some marinas are calm; others are rough in storms.

**Power and water** - 30/50/100 amp service available? - Water at each slip? - Cost included or metered?

**Pump-out facilities** Free or paid? Convenient or distant?

**Fuel dock** On-site fuel dock saves time and money. Worth significantly for active boaters.

**Security** 24/7 access? Controlled gates? Security patrols? Camera coverage?

Hidden marina costs

• Slip fees (monthly or annual)
• Electric metered usage
• Water (sometimes metered)
• Dock cart deposits
• Liveaboard fees (extra if applicable)
• Annual surcharges
• Off-season storage (sometimes mandatory)

Geographic considerations

**Year-round marinas** Available in tropical and subtropical climates. Premium pricing.

**Seasonal marinas** Northern climates. Closed November-April typically. Boats hauled and stored on land for winter.

**Hurricane zones** Florida, Caribbean, Gulf Coast. Requires hurricane plan. Marinas may force evacuations.

Reservation timing

Popular marinas have 1-5 year waitlists for permanent berths. Start the application process before buying your yacht.

For transient stops, most marinas accept reservations 6-12 months in advance for peak season.

Live-aboard considerations

If you plan to live aboard, verify: - Live-aboard permitted (not all marinas allow) - Sewage and water connections suitable - Adequate parking - Mail receiving - Local zoning permits residential use

Marina insurance discounts

Vessels in marinas with full-time security, hurricane plans, and good infrastructure get insurance discounts of 5-20%.