How to Choose the Right Marina
Not everyone has a choice when it comes to marinas. In some parts of the country, there might only be one or two within reach. In other places—like Boston—you’ve got eight or more options within a short stretch of coastline. So the first reality check is this: your decision may be dictated by geography. But if you do have choices, the details matter.
Proximity Matters More Than You Think
The single biggest factor in whether you’ll use your boat regularly is how close the marina is to your home. I live within throwing distance of mine, and it makes it easy to get out on the water whenever I feel like it. Compare that to people I know who keep their boat two hours away. For them, every trip requires planning, logistics, and an all-day commitment. The harder it is to get to your boat, the less you’ll use it. Simple as that.
The Price Reality
Price is the next big factor, and it varies wildly. Over the past decade, many marinas have been bought up and “standardized,” which usually means higher costs. Gone are the days of consistently cheap, family-run marinas.
But it’s not just slip fees. Look at what’s included. At my marina, electricity is an extra $100 a month. At others, it’s rolled into the base price. That adds up. Some marinas tack on surcharges for liveaboards—sometimes over a thousand dollars a year. Everyone’s looking for a profit angle, so know the full picture before you commit.
Seasonal vs. Year-Round
Another consideration: does the marina operate year-round? A lot of boaters still pull their boats every winter out of habit, even in areas that don’t freeze. In Boston, I leave my boat in all winter. The harbor doesn’t ice over, and I have a diver check the bottom periodically. No issues. Even the diver laughs about how most owners don’t realize bottom paint lasts years longer than they think. Pulling the boat every winter can be wasted money if your local conditions don’t require it.
Amenities and Lifestyle Fit
Not all marinas are created equal. Some are bare-bones and budget-friendly. Others cater to the affluent crowd with all the bells and whistles. If you’re planning to live aboard, don’t assume you can—many marinas prohibit it outright. Others will allow it but hit you with fees. Always confirm in writing before you move in, or you’ll regret it.
Mooring balls and anchoring out are cheaper alternatives, but they come with trade-offs. You give up amenities, and even simple tasks like getting to the boat become a chore. That might work for some, but it makes casual use far less likely.
Community and Reputation
Marinas are communities. Some are welcoming, helpful, and full of camaraderie. Others are cold and transactional. Reviews on Google or Dockwa will give you an idea, but the best move is to go there yourself. Walk the docks. Talk to the people who keep their boats there. Boaters are usually honest, and they’ll tell you what the marina is really like.
The Bottom Line
Choosing a marina comes down to three things:
1. Price — Can you afford it, including hidden fees?
2. Proximity — How easy is it to get to your boat?
3. Access & Amenities — Does it make your boating life simpler or harder?
The easier it is to get on your boat, the more you’ll actually use it. If every time feels like a logistical grind….long drives, no parking, constant fees—you’ll find excuses not to go.
Pick the marina that makes boating effortless. Because the whole point of owning a boat is using it, not just paying for it.
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