Dry Storage...what to look for.

[haulinvols]

Ok, I am going to take a tour of a couple marinas this weekend to look into dry storage for my boat. After last weeks fun at the local boat ramp, I am looking into something different. Those of you that dry store your boat, what tips do you have for me? Also is there anything I should pay close attention to while looking at their facilities? Any input, good, or bad would be very helpful. I have kept boats in rented slips in the past but never used the High and Dry form. Thanks

[mikeandkimlovethelakeoftheo]

Watch the end of the forks on the fork lifts....a buddy of mine had the bottom edge of the transom smacked with the fork and took a big chunk out of the gelcoat and glass.... And BIRDS....bird crap all over the boat. You sure you want to dry store it? You do intend to have them put it in a rack and using a large fork lift, place it in the water for you, right?

[TeamBajaMarine]

Just make sure that the fork lift operators are experienced and not kids that dont have a clue. Also make sure that the bunks are nicely carpeted, no exposed wood. Take a look at the hulls of other boats for indication of abuse. If you can, go indoors, well worth the extra money.

[Baja Daze]

I also rack store my boat and can agree with the others.

Most important, look at the equipment they're using. Make sure the forks are well protected. Look at the racks, make sure they are in good shape, fresh wood, no cracks, good carpet, etc. Make sure they're long enough to support the whole boat properly. Make sure they have good deep water access. Look for plentiful work racks, with water and power nearby. Look at their rate plans, see if the service is unlimited. Hours of operation is also important. What happens if you come in too late, are the docks well protected for overnight tie-off. Compare fuel prices between the different marinas on the same day. Look at different boats there and inspect their bottoms for damage, scuffs. Compare the services, a marina with a full service shop, parts store, supply store, etc might be worth a few extra bucks a month.

Lastly, any good marina should have a nice little bar/resteraunt to cool off at after a day of boating. ;) :)

[mikeandkimlovethelakeoftheo]

IMHO, the risk of damaging your boat will increase simply because the boat is in others hands...many others who really don't care if it gets scratched or not. A little scratch and I tweak, and I think you are the same way. Not many people are like this about boats. I like knowing my baby is in MY garage where I can just LOOK AT IT if I want to....

[Baja Daze]

Clearly, some are better than others. I've been racking for 4+ years, and not one problem. I've heard horror stories, though.

The most important thing...Get to know everyone there, tip nicely and be friendly...you won't have any problems.

[TeamBajaMarine]

Nick has it covered, I have been indoor racked for 7 years and have never had a problem.

[haulinvols]

Thanks for the tips guys. I have narrowed it down to a couple of the better choices. I will be to those tomorrow for a good tour and to inspect the facilities. The only reason I am even considering this, is because of how crowded the public ramps have gotten already this summer. It is more trouble than it is worth. I have spoken with a few people from each marina and they all seem very pleased with the service. By the way, both places will have my boat indoors, not outside.

[haulinvols]

Thanks for everyones input on this topic. I went and checked out the facilities at a couple of marinas this weekend. The first one, although very nice people, was a complete dump. Does not look like they have spent a penny on the place in a few years. The second one I was very impressed with. New equipment, all new bunks in the storage building. It also had outdoor ground bunks for cleaning and working on the boats. The staff was experienced. The only problem is from the time I called them last week to Saturday, they had filled all the available room. I am on a waiting list, although I doubt there will be a vacancy the rest of the summer. Looks like I will still be trailering the boat this year. At least I have decided on a marina for next summer. Thanks again.

[Baja Daze]

Great to hear. I'm sure you'll be happy once you get in there.

The biggest and best thing about this kind of set-up is having so much more time for actually enjoying your boat. You'll be going out more often due to the convenience. If you're ramps are anywhere as busy as ours and full of idiots, you'll be loving every minute of rack storage. It's a totally different level of simplicity.