How to Choose the Right Boat Storage: Complete Guide
Published January 2026 · Based on verified data from our directory
How to Choose the Right Boat Storage: A Complete Guide
Picking the wrong storage facility costs money in two ways: you pay for features you do not need, or you underpay and come back in spring to find damage from weather, theft, or deferred maintenance issues. This guide walks through the six main storage types, the criteria that actually matter, and the questions to ask before you sign anything.
The 6 Types of Boat Storage
1. Outdoor / Open Lot Storage
Your boat or trailer sits on a paved or gravel lot with no overhead cover. This is the lowest-cost option. The tradeoff is full exposure to sun, rain, hail, and bird droppings. UV damage to canvas, upholstery, and gelcoat accelerates without a cover or UV-protective tarp. Best for: boats in good shape with quality covers, or owners on a tight budget who perform regular maintenance.
2. Covered / Carport Storage
A metal or fabric roof over your parking space, typically open on the sides. Covered storage protects against rain, snow load, UV radiation, and most hail. It does not protect against wind-driven rain or blowing debris. This middle-tier option is popular because it provides meaningful protection at a reasonable price — usually 30–60% less than enclosed storage. Best for: most trailered boats, travel trailers, smaller Class C motorhomes.
3. Enclosed / Indoor Storage
Your boat is stored inside a building, fully protected from all weather. Some enclosed facilities are climate-controlled; others maintain standard temperatures. Climate-controlled units are rare for boats but common for high-end fiberglass boats stored in extreme-heat climates. Enclosed storage also provides the highest security and is often required by insurance policies for high-value vessels. Best for: boats worth $30,000+, performance boats, any boat stored over a long winter.
4. Marina / Wet Slip
Your boat stays in the water at a dock. Slips are rented by the foot of boat length. This is the most convenient option if you use your boat frequently — you walk down, start the engine, and go. The downsides are cost (slips are the most expensive storage type), biofouling on the hull, and the risk of sinking or damage from wakes, weather, and dock contact. Best for: power boaters and sailors who go out weekly or more.
5. Dry Stack Storage
A marina uses a forklift to stack boats on metal racks inside a large building. You call ahead, and they have your boat in the water when you arrive. This option combines indoor protection with fast water access. It is limited to boats that fit the rack system — usually powerboats under 30–35 feet and a maximum weight. Best for: powerboat owners who want protection without a slip and value quick launch service.
6. Self-Storage Facility with Boat / RV Parking
Standard self-storage companies often designate part of their property for outdoor or covered vehicle storage. These can be more affordable than dedicated marine storage facilities and are common in suburban areas. Security varies widely — some are fully gated; others are open lots. Best for: budget-conscious storage in areas without specialized marine facilities.
Key Selection Criteria
Security
Security is the single most important factor after price. A basic checklist: perimeter fencing (chain link minimum), gated access with a keypad or key card, 24-hour security cameras covering the entire lot, and ideally an on-site manager or regular security patrols. Open lots with no fencing and no cameras have meaningful theft risk. If your boat or RV has a value above $15,000, do not store it somewhere without basic security infrastructure.
Distance from the Water
Every mile between storage and the water costs you time and fuel on each trip. If you boat 20 times a year and the facility is 10 miles farther than the alternative, you are adding 400 miles of towing per year. Factor in your actual usage before choosing a cheaper but distant option.
Access Hours
Some facilities offer 24/7 access; others require you to retrieve your boat during office hours (typically 8am–5pm). If you leave on early-morning fishing trips, office-hours-only access is a dealbreaker. Confirm the exact access policy — not just "extended hours" but the specific gate closing time.
Insurance Requirements
Most reputable facilities require proof of liability insurance before renting. Some require a specific minimum coverage amount (commonly $100,000 liability). If you do not already have a marine insurance policy, factor that cost into your storage budget. The facility's insurance covers the property, not your boat.
Space Dimensions
Measure your boat, trailer, tongue, and motor before visiting any facility. The listed space size at many facilities is the stall length — not the total available length including a gate swing or overhang restriction. A 30-foot space may only accommodate a 28-foot rig once you account for clearance. Confirm dimensions with staff on-site before paying a deposit.
Paving and Drainage
Gravel lots are cheaper to maintain but harder on trailer tires and can cause moisture buildup around trailer frames. Paved lots with proper drainage are preferable for boats stored on trailers. Ask about standing water issues after heavy rain — prolonged moisture contact with wooden bunks or trailer frames accelerates rot and corrosion.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign
- What is the exact space size (length, width, height clearance for covered/indoor)?
- What are the access hours and is there 24/7 access? What are the gate codes or entry procedures?
- What security systems are in place — cameras, fencing, guards, alarms?
- What insurance coverage is required? Is proof required at move-in?
- What is the lease term — month-to-month, annual? Is there a prepay discount?
- What are the rules on performing maintenance, charging batteries, or running engines on-site?
- Is there a dump station, wash bay, or electrical hookup available?
- What happens if I need to terminate early?
- Have there been any break-ins or thefts in the past year?
- Is the lot paved? What drainage is in place?
Boat Storage Checklist
- Measure rig with trailer and tongue included
- Confirm space dimensions with facility staff
- Check Google reviews and look for any theft or damage complaints
- Verify security: fence, gate, cameras, lighting
- Confirm exact access hours
- Get a copy of the lease before signing
- Confirm insurance requirements
- Ask about move-in specials or prepay discounts
- Visit in person to assess lot condition and neighborhood
- Confirm the gate code and backup access procedure
Taking 30 minutes to evaluate a facility properly before signing protects a major investment. The lowest-priced option is rarely the best value once you factor in security risk, access inconvenience, and potential damage from inadequate protection.