Dry Boat Storage Annapolis: A Guide to Choosing the Best

Giant metallic storage racks or shelves used for motor boats, saving space.

With winter officially upon us, boat owners need to solidify their plans. This is where they’ll store their vessels during the off-season. Unless you have a large, secure backyard where you can store your boat, this likely means finding a dry storage facility near you.

This is where you can safely store your boat this winter. Yet, with so many storage facilities and marinas in the Annapolis area, finding the right storage facility can seem like an overwhelming task.

You’re not alone if you’re unsure where even to begin your search. To help you find the perfect place to store your vessel this winter, take a look at our top tips for choosing the right dry boat storage facility near Annapolis, Maryland.

Location and Accessibility

The first thing to consider when choosing a dry boat storage facility is location. Location is everything.

For most boaters, this means storing their vessel somewhere easily accessible from their home, and/or somewhere close to the water.

Storing your boat where you’ll need it most can make it quicker to get your boat on the water so you can maximize your time when summer arrives. This is why many boat owners choose to store their boats at marinas, as this makes launching a breeze.

However, accessibility is just as important as location. The fact is that it doesn’t matter if your boat is nearby if restricted hours make it difficult for you to access your vessel when you want.

When evaluating dry boat storage options, make sure that you ask the marina what their access hours are. Additionally, if you will be using stacked storage, you should ask how much notice you need to give to retrieve your boat.

Finding a storage facility whose access policies align with your schedule and preferences is essential to ensure you can quickly access your boat. This is if you need to perform maintenance and when it’s time to get back on the water come spring.

Miami Beach, Miami, America - 08.05.2019 - Ships stored in dock in port in Miami, Florida

Safety and Security Considerations

If you’re like many people, then your vessel is likely your biggest asset (aside from your house). It is then important that you protect this investment by finding a dry boat storage facility that is secure.

Take your time when evaluating boat storage options to find a facility that is not only in a good neighborhood. But, that also utilizes state-of-the-art security features to ensure the safety of your vessel on the premises.

At a minimum, a good boat storage facility should be properly fenced. They should also have good lighting, and utilize video surveillance. Also, they should have a system in place to ensure only authorized entries are allowed (particularly after hours). If a facility does not have these basic security measures, it is essential that you look elsewhere to ensure that you have protection for your vessel.

Size and Capacity

Depending on the size of your vessel, another significant factor that could influence your choice of storage facility is the size of boats they can accommodate.

You want to ensure that the facility you choose has plenty of space to store your yacht comfortably. Preferably pick a room to spare. Having a little extra room on all sides is ideal.

This could help protect your prized possession from being damaged by other people, particularly on busy weekends and holidays.

When asking about what size boats a storage facility can accommodate, you should also ask how much capacity they have. Finding a marina with plenty of storage space is essential.

This will ensure that there is extra room if you decide to purchase a dinghy. Also, this would be necessary if you have friends and family that you want at the same marina as you.

Charleston, SC/USA - August 1, 2020 Boat Storage at Daniel Island Marina.

Amenities

If you decide on dry boat storage at a marina vs a standard storage facility, you should also take the time to compare the different amenities offered by each marina.

The fact is that come summer, the marina where you store your vessel will become your home away from home. Also, you have access to the right amenities that can enhance the boating experience.

While every marina offers a different experience, common amenities include wi-fi connectivity, laundry facilities and shower rooms, pools, a clubhouse/restaurant, and a bar. Decide what amenities are important to you in your ideal marina. This can help narrow down your storage options considerably.

Services Provided

When evaluating boat storage facilities, you should also look at what services they provide.

While some storage facilities simply provide a place for you to park your vessel, others offer a wide range of services such as shrink wrapping and winterization, detailing, bottom cleaning, and haul-out and launch services. Choosing a full-service boat storage facility can be extremely useful.

These services can take much of the hassle out of owning a boat. In particular, you should choose a facility that has an on-site mechanic who can perform repairs and preventative maintenance.

This will ensure your yacht is tuned up and ready to go come summer.

Recreational Boats stored up in shelves in wait for the seasons action.

Consider Dry Storage at the Marinas by Trident Marine Group

If you’re looking for dry boat storage in Annapolis, Maryland this winter, consider choosing one of the marinas by Trident Marine Group.

Our marinas offer best-in-class storage facilities. We will ensure your vessel is secure, well-cared for, and ready to go when summer arrives. Our facility also offers 24-hour gated access, ensuring your vessel’s security while allowing you to access your boat whenever you might need to.

Additionally, with our comprehensive concierge services, you can rest assured that your boat is receiving the highest quality of care. Our skilled staff can winterize and shrinkwrap your yacht before putting it in storage.

Then, perform preventative maintenance, detailing, and haul-out and launch services this spring. So, you can get on the water without lifting a finger.

Feel free to contact us today to learn more about our dry boat storage options. With exceptional service, unmatched amenities, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, you will quickly discover why boaters love the marinas by Trident Marine Group.