The 25 Questions To Ask When Looking For The Right Place To Store Your Boat.
Special Report from Marine Entrepreneur Jonny Boys
Deciding where you want to store your boat is usually based on where you want to use it. Your choices can be varied or limited depending on how popular for boating that area is.
Availability of spaces, facilities and time of year can all affect prices. The size in height and length of your boat will also restrict your choices when shopping around.
Storage is generally quoted in £'s per metre or feet you'll need to have an accurate measurement for your boat including the depth she needs for clearance. Ensure you ask Question 3.
Knowing as much as you can about your shortlisted marinas or storage venues will make a lot of difference to your boating pleasure...and your pocket.
You can use this checklist to compare venues or simply email it to the sales team and get them to fill it in for you. Here's a PDF version to print off or email)
Key Points Checklist For Boat Storage
1 Are you currently running any special offers?___________________________
2 What are the extra costs for launching and retrieval and stepping of masts_________________
3 Does your quote include VAT?____________________________________________________
4 What is the tidal access for my boat and draft ?______________________________________
5 Are your flexible on launch dates/times_____________________________________________
6 Do you wash off the boat with fresh water free of charge?______________________________
7 Do you offer discounts for pre-paying?______________________________________________
8 Can I store my trailer or Cradle for free when I am not using it?__________________________
9 Can I have space around my boat to work on it?______________________________________
10 Do you have showers and toilets available? Are they free?______________________________
11 Do you have businesses on site like engine repairs/sail maker?__________________________
12 Do you provide any discounts for things like anti-foul paint?_____________________________
13 Are there any guest nights included in the package?__________________________________
14 Can I stay overnight on my boat?__________________________________________________
15 What security do you have? Guards, CCTV etc_______________________________________
16 Is there 24 hour access for me in case I want to work late?______________________________
17 Do you have testimonials from other clients?_________________________________________
18 Is there Wi-Fi internet access and how do you charge?________________________________
19 Is there fuel available that I need and how much is it?_________________________________
20 Is there an onsite cafe/bar for socialising?___________________________________________
21 How do you charge for electricity?_________________________________________________
22 Can people I engage come and do work on site?______________________________________
23 Can I bring my dog?____________________________________________________________
24 Can you supply me with your terms and conditions?___________________________________
25 Are you planning any improvements in the next 12 months?_____________________________
25.5 Do I like the venue? Do I like the people that work here?________________________________
Remember, whilst some venues may charge more than others it can pay dividends over the long term to go with the quality venue.
For example, a Drystack for motorboats is proven to reduce overall costs of storage because of better resale values and less maintenance.
This list of questions can be emailed or faxed to your shortlist of venues and you can get the replies sent to you by email/fax/in the post. It will make your decision to visit the venue a lot easier. It will save you time and money and help you to make the right choice.
Jonny Boys - Managing Director
PPS If you are looking for storage or moorings in Chichester area please contact
If you are looking for storage or moorings in the Portsmouth area area please contact Trafalgar wharf
