Checking into a marina for the first time? Here’s what you need to know to make the experience easy.
Summary:
When you’re headed to a new marina or mooring field, prepare ahead of time by checking the layout. Visit their website or use Google Maps. Advanced familiarity will make the marina staff’s instructions clearer later.
Call when you’re ten minutes out to get last-minute details to help you tie up. It gives you a chance to ask for landmarks to help you find the slip or to get information about how to tie up.
Will you be getting help to tie up? If so, in the United States, a tip is customary.
After you’re tied up, get back to the marina office to make arrangements to pay and provide documents.
I preferred to clean up a bit before checking in. It’s simply a sign of respect and helps things go smoother.
I kept all my documents in one place so I was ready. It’s why we developed the Boat Documents Organizer. Look for a link in the show notes.
After checking in, get the lay of the land. Where are the showers? Laundry? What is the WiFi password? And, will the marina be hosting any special events?
To get more details, listen to the full podcast or check out How to Check Into a Marina.
Links:
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Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig
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Carolyn Shearlock has lived aboard full-time for 17 years, splitting her time between a Tayana 37 monohull and a Gemini 105 catamaran. She’s cruised over 14,000 miles, from Pacific Mexico and Central America to Florida and the Bahamas, gaining firsthand experience with the joys and challenges of life on the water.
Through The Boat Galley, Carolyn has helped thousands of people explore, prepare for, and enjoy life afloat. She shares her expertise as an instructor at Cruisers University, in leading boating publications, and through her bestselling book, The Boat Galley Cookbook. She is passionate about helping others embark on their liveaboard journey—making life on the water simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
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