Owning a boat can change your lifestyle, but the cost of boat storage can be a significant expense. Different storage locations require different storage costs, so if you're wondering how much boat storage costs, this boat storage cost guide will answer your questions.
Cost of boat storage
On average, the cost of storing a boat can range from roughly $100 to $200 per year, with the exact cost largely determined by the specific location where the boat is stored, the size of the boat, the corresponding size of the storage space required, the individual's preferred method of storing the boat, and the type of service chosen for renting the storage space.
Different Storage Types and Costs
Different types of boat storage may have an impact on the cost of storage, and depending on your location, there are four main types of boat storage:
In-water storage
This type of storage is the most expensive, with rates typically ranging between $25 and $50 for in-water storage. A 20-foot boat, for example, could cost as much as $1,000 to store. This type of storage, although more expensive, is very convenient to use, as the boat can be used anytime throughout the year and does not require additional transport. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as inconvenience when it comes to maintenance and the need to pay extra to remove the boat and have it externally maintained.
Open air uncovered storage
This type of storage is relatively inexpensive, with many storage sites charging between $50 and $100 per month. It is cheaper, but offers limited protection for the boat, as it is an uncovered exterior storage and the boat is vulnerable to damage from the natural environment, which needs to be taken into account when choosing a storage option. Additionally, choosing this type of storage requires the boat to be placed on a special trailer for transport.
Covered storage in the open
For boat owners who don't want their boats exposed unprotected, open-air covered storage is a popular option, with rates ranging from about $75 to $150 per month. Although the boat is stored outdoors, a roof or cover creates a layer of protection that can effectively minimize damage from sunlight, rain and other damage to the boat.
Indoor Storage
Indoor storage of a boat can cost approximately $100 to $250 per month. Indoor storage includes indoor self-storage (garages, general storage units), large warehouse storage (usually provided by marinas), and dry rack storage (storing the boat on warehouse shelves). Indoor storage is relatively costly, but it greatly facilitates boat maintenance and also protects the boat from the elements on all fronts. Indoor self-storage is more common in inland areas, while larger warehouses and dry rack storage are more popular in waterfront areas.
Factors affecting boat storage costs
Location of Storage
Where a boat is stored can have an impact on the cost of storage. In popular coastal areas such as Florida, for example, there are a variety of options for storing boats, but the demand for storage is also very high. Storage on the water at some popular marinas tends to be more expensive for storage due to its convenience and unique experience. Conversely, in some inland areas, where there are fewer boats and fewer facilities to store them, the desire for highly specialized boat storage tends to be more expensive, although general purpose storage units are conversely cheaper than on the coasts due to the smaller number of boats that need to be stored.
Boat size
The size of the boat will determine the amount of storage space required and the cost, as the size of the boat will affect the type of location and plot you need to consider. The cost of storing a boat varies by size, an 8ft to 15ft boat with storage space ideally between 15ft and 20ft will cost around $90 to $100 per month to store for these sizes of boat. A 15-foot to 25-foot boat with storage space preferably between 25 feet and 30 feet, and the monthly storage cost for these sizes is about $100 to $200. A boat of 25 feet or more with storage space preferably between 30 feet and above, the monthly storage cost for these size boats is approximately $150 to $250.
