Simply buying a boat is not enough - there are certain factors you need to consider when buying one, among which is the issue of boat storage. You should first identify a place to store your boat when you are not using it. Analyze the following options before selecting the ideal location for boat storage: location convenience, cleanliness, round-the-clock security, additional pick-up services, wash down, regular maintenance facilities, battery charging, gas station advantages, boat covers, cleaning and waxing facilities prior to long storage. You can hunt for the companies that provide furniture storage because these are generally self-storage units which are climate controlled.

Types Of Boat Storage:

• Dry Storage: This facility is offered by several resorts and marinas where boats are parked in a spacious parking lot. These are sometimes provided with security cover and the grounds are usually paved or dirt. Though this storage is cost-effective, boats may be open to damage. The boat cover is not enough to save the upholstery from wearing out when the boat is stored outside.

• Marina Boat Slips: The demand is so high that getting a slip may take longer than you can imagine. This kind of boat storage cuts down on launching and hauling time and it is very convenient. But the problems faced in dry storage are present here too because of the exposure to water. The boat hull also needs to be thoroughly cleaned to avoid fungal growths.

• Private Docks: Like garage storage for cars, private docks are separately enclosed docks for boat storage which can protect your boat from the elements. Many of these come with devices to pull the boat from the water when not being used. However, these cannot be easily found in every waterway, and many times they are only covered without any such lifts for convenience. This boat storage is quite costly and may not even contain a boat house.

• Storage Units: You can store your boats in the garage or below awnings or even alongside your houses, but these self-storage units are not permitted everywhere. During these times, you can either rent storage condos or units that are similar to car storage facilities. These help to keep your boats safe from the environmental hazards.

• Concierge Storage: Dry and covered storages are offered by professional facilities that may even give concierge services. These services help to load your boat when you wish to use it, or return it to the storage area when not being used. Additional services include maintenance facilities, watercraft repairs and boat washing. RV storage is common in such places because they are usually found alongside recreational waterways.

• Trailer: Perhaps the least costly form of boat storage is by keeping the boat on a trailer in your driveway. With this you can enjoy the benefits of boating on different types of water whenever you want to and you can also save on money that you would have to spend for winter storage!

• Rack Storage: This stores your boat in dry stacks which are basically trailer-like cradles kept in a covered shed like a warehouse. You can contact the facility before taking the boat out and they can arrange for the boat to be launched accordingly.

No matter which location you have picked out for boat storage, you must remember to refer to the manual that comes with your new boat for storage instructions. This way you can be certain that no damage is caused to your boat when you are not using it.