One major aspect of boat ownership is deciding where to store your boat when it’s not being used. Boat When it comes to storing your boat, you generally have two main options: dry boat storage (where your boat is kept out of the water) and marina boat storage (where it's kept in the water). Each of these choices comes with its own set of steps for getting your boat ready, whether it's prepping the exterior, taking care of the engine and electrical systems, or ensuring the batteries are in good shape.

So, how do you decide which storage option is the best fit for your Yellowfin aluminium boat? Don’t worry! This article will share some tips on where to store your boat efficiently by highlighting the pros and cons of each location. Let’s dive in!

Indoor Dry Stacked Storage

Dry stacked storage is a dry boat storage option that keeps your boat protected inside a warehouse. These facilities store multiple boats at a time, which are stacked and removed with forklifts. They’re also covered, keeping your boat safe from the weather. Not only do they offer good security features, but dry-stacked storage facilities also handle the heavy lifting in retrieving your boat, so all you have to do is call ahead to make sure your boat is ready to go!

Pros:

Your boat is protected from wind, rain, and UV damage.

Dry-stacked warehouses have security measures to prevent theft.

Convenient storage option for smaller boats.

Save money on trailer maintenance.

Less expensive than keeping your boat in a marina.

Cons:

You may not be able to get to your boat when you want it.

Some facilities may limit the number of times you can take your boat out.

This storage option can be pricier and harder to find outside coastal areas.

Larger boats may not fit in dry-stacked storage. The larger Yellowfin models may not be suitable for this option.

Your Garage at Home

Home garages are a convenient and affordable boat storage option that allows you to keep your boat on your property. Attached garages absorb heat from your house, preventing low temperatures from damaging your boat while in storage. Without storage fees or the hassle of driving to a facility to check on your boat, this is an excellent way to keep your boat safe during the off-season!

Pros:

Your boat is on your property and easily available.

Storing your boat in your garage is 100% free.

You can keep up with maintenance without having to pull it out of storage.

A garage offers protection from weather, wind, and UV damage.

Your boat is protected from thieves and vandals.

Cons:

Garage space could be limited for other vehicles.

Protection from rodents and other pests is not guaranteed.

Marina

If you’re looking for convenient boat storage, keep your boat at a marina or a marine centre. This option is ideal for those who live in an area near the coast. Unless you own the entire dock, you’ll need to purchase a marina slip, which is similar to a parking space. Boat slip rates vary depending on your location, but most are priced according to the length of your boat.

Pros:

You don’t have to worry about investing in a boat trailer.

No delay in getting boat season started.

Because several slips are rented out, marinas offer socializing opportunities for boat owners.

Some marinas offer useful amenities.

Sometimes, this is the only storage option for large boats.

Cons:

Dock fees can be high depending on where you live.

Potentially increases the odds of boat damage.

Aquatic pests like barnacles or algae can wreak havoc on your boat.

Security can be minimal.

Boat Lifts

For short-term boat storage at a marina, boat lifts are a great way to keep your boat dry and easily accessible. Boat lifts are available in three types: floating, suspending, and bottom standing. The type of boat lift you’ll need depends on whether your dock is fixed or floating, how deep the water is, and the local climate.

Pros:

You don’t have to worry about a boat trailer.

Your boat is easily accessible.

You can get on the water right away.

Cons:

This storage option is best as a short-term solution.

Boat lifts may not handle extreme weather.

Boats are vulnerable to flooding, aquatic pests, and the elements.

No matter what storage type you choose, make sure it’s convenient for you, and always make sure your plate fishing boat, your tinnie boat, your yacht, or whatever boat you have is properly protected and ready to get back to warm weather fun.