Owning a boat can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to consider the various costs associated with boat ownership. One of the primary expenses you will encounter is boat storage, particularly dry boat storage. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that influence how much dry boat storage costs, the different types of dry storage options available, and tips for choosing the right storage facility for your needs. We’ll also provide a cost comparison table to help you make an informed decision.
Factors Affecting Dry Boat Storage Cost
Several factors can influence the cost of dry boat storage. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision when looking for a suitable storage facility.
Boat Size
One of the most significant factors affecting the cost of dry boat storage is the size of your boat. Storage facilities typically charge based on the boat’s length overall (LOA), which includes the boat’s total length, including engines, platforms, and bowsprit. The larger the boat, the higher the storage cost. Additionally, some facilities may charge extra for boats with a height or beam over a specific size, so it’s essential to consider these factors when comparing storage options.
Location
The location of the storage facility can also impact the cost of dry boat storage. Facilities in popular boating destinations or urban areas tend to be more expensive due to the higher demand for storage services. Conversely, storage facilities in more remote locations or regions with a lower demand for boating services may offer lower storage rates.
Storage Type
The type of dry boat storage you choose can also influence the cost. There are several dry storage options available, including fully enclosed dry stack storage, outdoor covered storage, and outdoor uncovered storage. Each storage option offers different levels of protection from the elements and may have varying costs associated with them.
Seasonality
The time of year can also affect the cost of dry boat storage. During peak boating season, storage facilities may charge higher rates due to increased demand for their services. Conversely, during the off-season, storage facilities may offer discounted rates to attract customers.
Additional Services
Some storage facilities may offer additional services, such as haul and launch services, fresh water rinses, or maintenance services. These services can add convenience and value to your storage experience, but they may also increase the overall cost of storage. Be sure to consider the additional services offered by a facility when comparing storage costs.
Types of Dry Boat Storage
There are several types of dry boat storage options available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. When considering how much dry boat storage costs, it’s essential to evaluate the various storage options to determine which one best meets your needs.
Fully Enclosed Dry Stack Storage
Fully enclosed dry stack storage is a popular option for boat owners who want to protect their boats from the elements. Boats are stored in a multi-level, fully enclosed building with individual storage racks for each boat. This type of storage provides excellent protection from the sun, rain, and other environmental factors, helping to preserve your boat’s condition and prolong its lifespan.
The cost of fully enclosed dry stack storage will depend on the size of your boat and the location of the storage facility. As an example, here’s a breakdown of monthly and yearly costs for different boat lengths:
| Boat Length | Monthly | Yearly |
| 45-47′ | $1,663.50 | $1,499.00 |
| 43-44′ | $1,416.00 | $1,289.00 |
| 42′ | $875.00 | $777.00 |
| 41′ | $850.50 | $746.00 |
| 40′ | $819.00 | $712.00 |
| 39′ | $776.50 | $677.00 |
| 38′ | $739.50 | $647.50 |
| 37′ | $727.00 | $618.00 |
| 36′ | $702.50 | $606.00 |
| 35′ | $673.00 | $588.50 |
| 34′ | $659.50 | $578.00 |
| 33′ | $641.00 | $559.00 |
| 32′ | $616.00 | $547.50 |
| 31′ | $591.50 | $524.00 |
| 30′ | $579.50 | $506.00 |
| 29′ | $567.00 | $488.50 |
| 28′ | $542.50 | $471.00 |
| 27′ | $511.50 | $459.00 |
| 26′ | $505.50 | $447.50 |
| 25′ | $493.00 | $418.00 |
| 24′ | $462.00 | $406.50 |
| 23′ | $431.50 | $371.00 |
| 22′ | $413.00 | $353.50 |
| 21′ | $382.00 | $335.50 |
| 20′ | $357.50 | $306.50 |
Outdoor Covered Storage
Outdoor covered storage is a more affordable option than fully enclosed dry stack storage, but it still offers a good level of protection for your boat. Boats are stored on trailers or racks beneath a roofed structure, shielding them from direct sunlight and precipitation. This type of storage is a suitable option for boat owners who want to protect their investment without incurring the higher costs associated with fully enclosed storage.
The cost of outdoor covered storage will vary depending on the size of your boat and the location of the storage facility. As an example, here’s a breakdown of monthly costs for different boat lengths:
| Boat Length | Monthly |
| Triple Axle | $105 |
| Double Axle | $85 |
| Single Axle | $75 |
Outdoor Uncovered Storage
Outdoor uncovered storage is the most affordable dry boat storage option, but it offers the least amount of protection from the elements. Boats are stored on trailers or racks in an open lot, exposed to sunlight, rain, and other environmental factors. This type of storage may be suitable for boat owners on a tight budget or those who don’t require maximum protection for their vessel.
The cost of outdoor uncovered storage will depend on the size of your boat and the location of the storage facility. As an example, here’s a breakdown of monthly costs for different boat lengths:
| Boat Length | Monthly |
| 20′ | $70 |
| 26-30′ | $80 |
| 31-35′ | $90 |
| 36-38′ | $100 |
Choosing the Right Dry Boat Storage Facility
When considering how much dry boat storage cost, it’s essential to evaluate the different storage facilities available in your area. Here are some tips for choosing the right dry boat storage facility for your needs:
Research online reviews: Look for customer reviews on Google or other review platforms to get a sense of the quality and reputation of a storage facility.
Visit the facility: Schedule a visit to the storage facility to inspect the storage options available and assess the overall condition of the facility.
Ask about additional services: Inquire about any additional services the facility offers, such as haul and launch services or maintenance services, and factor these into your storage decision.
Compare costs: Obtain quotes from multiple storage facilities in your area to compare costs and find the best value for your needs.
Conclusion
Determining how much dry boat storage cost involves considering several factors, including boat size, storage type, location, and additional services. By researching different storage facilities and comparing costs, you can find the best storage option for your needs and budget. Keep in mind that investing in quality storage can help protect your boat and prolong its lifespan, making it a worthwhile expense for any boat owner.