Finding the right place to keep your boat—whether it's at a marina, a yacht club, or other storage facility—can feel like a big decision. After all, your boat is more than just a way to get from point A to point B; it's part of your lifestyle. We get that! 

As a boat insurance company, we want to help make sure your boat is in good hands. So, we’ve got tips to help you find the right fit. Let’s get started! 

1. Location

When it comes to picking the right spot for your boat, location is everything. Think about how often you plan to head out on the water. If you’re the type of person who loves quick rides, having something that’s close to home can be a gamechanger. 

But it’s not just about proximity to your home. You’ll also want to consider the location in relation to your favorite waterways. Is the facility located near your go-to fishing spots or favorite cruising areas? The last thing you want is to dock your boat far from where you want to spend your time on the water.

2. Services & Amenities

You want to find a spot that makes your boating life easier and more enjoyable. One of the first things to think about are the services the facility offers. Picture this: after a long day on the water, you pull into the dock and realize you need fuel or a quick repair. Wouldn’t it be nice if your facility had everything you needed right on-site? 

And let’s not forget about security. Your boat is a big investment, and you want to make sure it’s safe when you’re not around. Look for a facility that takes security seriously. Things like gated access, surveillance cameras, and a good staff presence can give you peace of mind.

» MORE: A Guide to Boat Security 

Finally, think about those extra amenities that can make your time at the dock feel more like a mini-vacation. Many facilities offer more than the basics, with perks like on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and even storage options for your gear. 

At the end of the day, it’s about finding a place that feels like a good fit for your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for a no-frills marina to keep your boat or a full-service yacht club with all the bells and whistles. 

3. Cost

Ah, the “fun” part—cost. If you're eyeing a yacht club, be prepared for membership fees, which can be a greater expense. But these fees often come with added perks, like access to events, social activities, and top-notch amenities. If you love the idea of being part of a boating community and enjoying those extra perks, a yacht club might just be worth the splurge.

On the flip side, marinas typically charge straightforward docking fees. You're paying for a spot to keep your boat, along with basic services like water and electricity. But it's still important to check the fine print. Always ask about hidden charges for things like utilities, maintenance, or special services that might pop up. A little digging can save you from unexpected surprises down the line.

4. Reputation & Reviews

Trust your fellow boaters—they know the ins and outs of local facilities better than anyone. So, before you make any decisions, take the time to chat with other boat owners and get real-life opinions on the place or places you’re considering. They can give you the inside scoop on what a facility is really like. 

But don’t stop there. Take a few minutes to look through online reviews. You’ll get a broader sense of what other boaters have experienced (both the good and the not-so-good.) If a lot of people mention quality service and clean facilities, that’s a good sign. But if you see repeated complaints, you might want to think twice.

5. Community

One of the best parts of boating is the community that comes with it. If you like chatting it up with fellow boaters, then the social scene at a facility is definitely worth considering. 

Yacht clubs usually have a packed calendar of events and activities. But don't overlook marinas—they can be just as welcoming. Many host fun events, even if they’re not as fancy as what you might find at a yacht club.