NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 13


they are also increasingly promoted as safe harbours during major storms, which can be a particularly attractive benefit for absentee owners.


Some of the perceived


disadvantages of rack storage include: limitation and being able to just sit on and enjoy the boat and the views at the dock; having others handle the boat; having to arrange a schedule and timing for having the boat in the water; concerns about another boat stored above yours draining water or other liquids on to your boat; and being able to drive to the marina and just look at and/ or show off the boat. To get around the disadvantage of sleeping on the boat or even just hanging out, some facilities are offering the perk of available dock time – ability to spend time on the boat at a dock, including being able to sleep aboard. This can be particularly attractive for those hoping for a very early start or who may live farther afield from the facility. Of course, while rack storage has been undergoing significant


This attractive dry-stack storage building is located at Marina One in Deerfield Beach, Florida.


advances in technology, there have also been improvements for in- water storage, including with float stability, aesthetic treatments and wave attenuation. In addition, one needs to keep in mind that boats keep getting longer, wider and deeper with more accoutrements. Just a short time ago, the main demand for boats was in the 28-35


ft range. Today, the sweet spot has moved to over 38 ft and up to 50 ft.


Which choice? So, if you are looking to build or improve a marina today, which should you choose? The answer, as is so often the case, is it depends on the site and there are lots of yin yangs.


For rack storage, many local


governments have or are adopting regulations specifically limiting heights of buildings and there are growing local concerns regarding scenic vistas and interruption of views. Many waterfront access land areas are over less stable grounds than inland areas, adding stability costs. On the other hand, technology


MARINA INDUSTRY SOUTH-EAST ASIA & PACIFIC • MAY 2018


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