When you’re thinking about where to store your boat, there are several factors to consider:
- Protection from vandals and thieves
- Protection from the elements
- Convenient access to your boat
- Distance from storage location to boating area
- Your budget
Protect your boat during storage with a quality marine boat cover.
When it’s time to choose a boat storage facility, one of the first priorities is to make sure the storage company you choose is known for its tight security. Ask other boat owners where they store their boats and who they recommend. Then ask the storage facility about their security policy and what measures they take to prevent your boat from being vandalized or stolen.
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There are basically two types of off-site storage: outdoor and indoor. Some marine storage locations offer outdoor dry dock storage near the water’s edge. This is convenient if you go boating in that lake or river the majority of the time. If you choose to dry dock your boat outdoors, ask about the protection offered for your boat. Is there a 24-hour surveillance system? How will your boat be secured?
If you store your boat outside, make sure you use a high quality marine boat storage cover to protect your boat from the elements. Outdoor storage can be hard on your boat. If possible, consider indoor marine storage. Try to find a storage location near where you usually use your boat. If you normally travel several hours to get to your favorite boating area, consider storing your boat locally in that area. This will save you the trouble of trailering your boat over long distances and also save on gas. If you boat in several different areas, you may find it more convenient to store your boat close to home.
Some storage places, both indoor and outdoor, offer extra services such as cleaning and winterizing your boat, preparing it for boating season, performing regular maintenance, and transporting your boat to the water. If you don’t want to worry about taking care of your boat and you don’t mind paying for someone else to care for it, these are great options for easy boat storage.
Storing your boat at home is convenient and inexpensive, making it the ideal storage option for many boat owners.
Boat storage at home, such as in the driveway or garage, is convenient for those who have this option available to them. There’s no need to pick your boat up at the storage space before you head to the lake. You can also do any cleaning or maintenance work at your own convenience.
The downside is that storing your boat at home takes up extra room. If garage or driveway storage is inconvenient, consider building a storage shelter or a shed on your property. You could also consider paving a small area to the side of the house or garage where you can park your boat.
If you decide to construct a shelter or make an asphalt or concrete pad, find out whether your local legislation will require a building permit. Check with your local government for laws concerning property development in your area.
Use a quality marine boat cover to protect your boat from damage caused by the elements, especially if you store your boat outside. Another option to consider if you have limited storage options on your property may be to rent or trade favors for storage space at a friend or neighbor’s house.
If you own property on the water and have access to a private dock, you can simply wet dock your boat during the boating season. This is the most convenient option, since your boat is already in the water and ready to go. If you trailer your boat to other locations, having a boat launch near the dock will come in handy.
You may want to consider indoor marine storage during the off-season if you don’t have an enclosed space to store your boat at home, especially if your area is known for its harsh weather during the winter months.
