Opinions Needed: Bying Your Dry Slip - The Hull Truth

Spring Fever · 02-10-2008, 08:17 PM

Marinas converting from dry slip rental to selling their dry slips have definitely been a trend in the past few years in the Morehead City / Atlantic Beach area.

Who has been part of the conversion? How did you feel about it? Has it been a good move for you or not?

Thanks

jhendric · 02-10-2008, 09:14 PM

I did the math on it this fall...Radio Island Marina wanted 70k plus 1k a year for service fees....considering that I could save the cost of a tow vehicle...and the fuel costs associated with it...it really wasn't too far off....they are going to have a "club house" as well which would be pretty cool...

The part that scares me is the annual fee...like a country club, subject to go up at any time.

As long as my Ford is still running, and still paid for, I'll delay my decision...

Ice Cream Man · 02-11-2008, 06:11 AM

The way most of the NC coast is losing marinas to private developers - do you have any other options?
Do you own a boat that's easy to tow & launch?

If you have the money & want to fish as often as possible - without the headaches of towing buy it. It might increase in value........ICM

Graddy-fied · 02-11-2008, 08:44 AM

I've bought and sold a few, from Carolina Beach up to Atlantic Beach. I've made money on all of them, but for the most part I think I was lucky to get in and out at the right time. Sales don't seem to be as quick as they were 2 or so years ago, but, like the housing market, I think you can find some good deals if you look close enough. If you can swing it, I do think it's the only way to go if you plan on boating around here for years to come. I hate the worries of wondering whether or not you'll be able to find a slip each season and, if so, how much the rent will go up. I am sure what seems like an expensive slip today will seem cheap 10 years from now.

Drifter · 02-11-2008, 10:14 AM

Long term, I don't think it's bad move.

You might also consider looking for a slip with a lift as an alternative, as the convenience factor is better (as long as you have a way to remove the boat during hurricanes if required).

b04747 · 02-11-2008, 10:23 AM

Over 500 dry slips scheduled to go in beside the boat ramp in Beaufort starting in the near future. I don't know the pricing details, but I've seen the plan and for what it is it will look nice. With that many more coming on the market I wouldn't buy one in Carteret County for a short term investment. Might be worth waiting to see what their prices will be.

YellowJacket · 02-11-2008, 04:49 PM

Check the insurance before you buy.

You are really only purchasing a slot in the air when the next hurricane blows through.