For the uninitiated boaters, there’s a big difference between a boat dock and a boat slip. Some see them as interchangeable terms and places where boats are tied to the land. Though this is true, the former is an open area where your boat is parked parallel to the dock, and the latter is covered from three angles, and your boat slides into a spot.
That being said, a boat slip is usually offered by marinas. As for the boat dock, if you have the budget, you can build one for your lake house. This brings us to the question: Is a personal dock better or docking at the marina?
Both have their sets of pros and cons. Let’s take a look at them:
Convenience
Private docks offer convenience. You can head out for a sail whenever your mood strikes. You don’t need to go through the hassles of loading your boat on a trailer and hauling it to a waterfront.
As mentioned earlier, a private dock costs more upfront. However, it saves you from the monthly fees you have to pay for the boat slip.
When you are docking at a marina, you have to look around for the perfect spot, which allows you to launch and dock easily. Moreover, in the boating season, marinas are very crowded.
A marina offers a lot of conveniences; some of its best services are dry dock storage, boat lifts, and fueling stations. While the former two can be built and bought at a cost, the latter is not something you can have for your private dock.
Security and Privacy
Some boat owners like a marina’s open nature, while others prefer peace and quiet. As a private boat dock owner, you will completely control who can step foot on your dock. You can take security measures to ensure someone doesn’t enter your lake house through the water.
While marinas have security, it is usually slack. Those offering luxury amenities will have a high monthly fee and personalized services. This brings us to our last point:
Extra Amenities
You can install whatever you want on your private dock — the sky is the limit. Your budget only limits you. However, the beauty of a customized dock furnished with a fire pit and seating is unmatched. You can also install a gazebo, special lighting for dock parties, and a jet ski ramp.
These are all features you don’t get at a marina.
In conclusion, if you are a private person and want a docking space all to yourself, a private boat dock makes much more sense. You might not get all the luxuries a marina offers, but you can upgrade your dock as your boating needs change.
The only drawback of a private dock is maintenance. If you have a wooden dock, it will have to be sealed yearly to prevent it from fading, rotting, and rusting. You can choose other construction materials, such as pressure-treated wood and aluminum, but they have a high upfront cost.
Nor Col has the best options if you want a quality floating dock to install on your waterfront property. For further information, call us at (800) 654-8168 or visit our website at your convenience.
