Selecting a Dock. Whether you are docking your boat at the Lake Alan Henry, Brazos River, or Lake Bridgeport, you need to do a little research before purchasing a slip. Some lakes have floating docks and other reserved spots, and each one offers a different level of safety.
Unless you own a lakefront property and have a private docking space, you will have to look for a rental just like all the other boating enthusiasts. Purchasing a boat is only half the battle. The other half includes finding the perfect docking spot so that your boat remains secure when parked.
Let’s have a look at five questions that you need to ask before selecting a dock to store your boat:
Does Your Marina Have High Water Congestion?
The money you pay for the rental slip won’t matter if there’s too much traffic at the marina. Not only will it take you a lot of time to reach your docking spot but you will also be subjected to delay when taking your boat out for a cruise. Find out the docking hours and ask how they keep the traffic on the down-low so that everyone can take out their boat without any wait.
What Are the Highest and Lowest Slip Rates, and What Benefits Do They Offer?
Depending on the type of boat you drive, you will find many docking options at a Marina such as PWC docks, covered floating docks, drive on docks etc. Then you have moorings, which is the cheapest option for docking a boat but not secure. So, before renting or buying a slip, find out the prices of all the docking options and then choose one based on the benefits it offers.
It’s better to choose a docking spot over moorings because some marinas are open to the public, which can leave your boat vulnerable to burglars.
Is Your Staff Well-Versed With the Marina Operations?
You are paying good money for docking your boat. Therefore, it’s important to ask the agent if the staff is familiar with boating rules. Make sure that they are knowledgeable, enforce cleanliness, practice safety, provide security and cater to your every boating need. Don’t settle for anything less!
What Facilities and Amenities Does the Dock Offer?
Apart from multiple docking options, a marina should also offer spots for special boats such as kayaks, canoes, etc. Basic amenities that should be provided include:
- Clean water for washing boats
- Electrical outlets for charging batteries
- Private lockers
- Dock steps
A luxury amenity that only a few docks offer is a waterproof dock box for storing supplies. If the marina does not offer this, ask if there’s any storage option for keeping the extra gear and tools.
Is Living Aboard Allowed?
Find out if the marina has a closing hour. If you like to boat at night, then you might not be able to access your board late at night if the marina keeps specific hours. Moreover, this might also mean that you are not allowed to live aboard. Better find this out before you are charged with a penalty for breaking the rules.
One of the best things about getting a rental slip at a dock is that you get to keep your boat out of harm’s way. Deciding on which dock to choose purely depends on what the marina is offering and at what price.
Have more questions about selecting a dock? Contact us at EZ Dock Texas. You can also socialize with us on Facebook.com.