Boat Docks In Southern Usa: Year-Round Availability?

Boat docks in the Southern USA are a great way to enjoy the region's beautiful weather and explore its waterways. There are many options for boat docks in this area, ranging from private residences to marinas, and even some that are available for purchase. Some docks are simple and stationary, while others are floating and can accommodate fluctuating water levels. When it comes to finding a year-round boat dock in the Southern USA, there are several factors to consider, such as location, budget, and specific needs.

Southern California Marinas

Southern California is known for its endless beaches, year-round sunshine, and impressive marinas. The region offers a perfect blend of convenience and luxury for boating enthusiasts, with easy access to the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.

Some of the top-rated marinas in Southern California include:

• Marina Del Rey Marina: Located in Los Angeles County, this marina receives excellent reviews for its clean and modern docks, attentive maintenance crew, and helpful harbour master.
• Huntington Harbour Marina: This marina offers 99-year leases on boat slips and is conveniently situated in Huntington Beach.
• Holiday Harbor Marinas: Known for its well-maintained facilities and friendly boaters, Holiday Harbor Marinas is another excellent choice in Los Angeles County.
• Cerritos Bahia Marina: This marina is recommended for boats that can fit under the PCH bridge. It is praised for its well-kept docks and convenient location.
• Newport Dunes Marina: Offering a range of amenities at reasonable prices, Newport Dunes Marina is a great option for boat owners seeking value.
• Rainbow Harbor and Marina: Located in Long Beach, this marina provides a beautiful setting to enjoy a day on the water.

In addition to these public marinas, Southern California also offers a selection of private boat docks attached to residential properties. These docks provide 24/7 access to boats, enhancing the waterfront lifestyle and adding long-term value to homes. The most popular cities for houses with private boat docks include Corona Del Mar, Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and San Diego.

Living aboard year-round in the Northeast USA

Living on a boat year-round in the Northeast USA is possible but requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some key considerations and suggestions for making this lifestyle a success:

Choosing a Location

When selecting a location, consider the climate and the availability of liveaboard-friendly marinas. While the Northeast is known for its cold winters, some areas are milder than others. For example, the further south you go, the easier it will be, and locations like Annapolis, Maryland, and Belfast, Maine, are mentioned as possibilities.

Insulation and Heating

To combat the cold, ensure your boat is well insulated. Consider a tent-like cover or shrink-wrapping your boat to create a greenhouse effect and provide some protection from the wind and snow. For heating, electric heaters, diesel heaters, and solid fuel stoves are all popular options. Be mindful of the additional fees that may be incurred for electricity usage.

Condensation and Dripping

Condensation and dripping can be managed by creating "storm windows" using clear plastic or Saran Wrap to create a dead air space barrier. This prevents moisture from forming on cold hatches. Running incandescent lights or small electric heaters in pump areas can also help keep these spaces dry.

Water Access

Water access may be limited during winter, so inquire with marinas about their policies. Some drop water lines into the water during winter, allowing you to haul a hose and refill your tanks. Having a long hose and access to an inside spigot can be helpful.

Marina Rules and Regulations

Marina rules vary, so it's essential to understand the requirements for holding tanks and waste disposal. Some marinas may require you to go out to sea to dump waste or use their pump-out services. Additionally, some marinas may not allow the discharge of sink or shower water into the marina waters.

Boating Experience and Safety

If you're new to boating, consider taking a boating safety course and getting a boating license. Gaining experience through boat deliveries or sailing with a captain can also build your skills and knowledge.

Resale and Boat Choice

When thinking about resale, supply and demand, brand desirability, and the initial boat purchase factors play a role. Trawlers and tugs in the 35-40' range are popular choices, but sailboats between 38' and 40' offer a good balance between liveaboard room and maintenance costs. Fiberglass boats are low-maintenance, and lower engine hours are a good sign.

Chicago Harbors

The Chicago Harbor, in the narrow sense, refers to the artificial harbor on Lake Michigan, located at the mouth of the Chicago River. It is bounded by outer breakwaters to the north and east, Northerly Island to the south, and the Chicago shoreline to the west. The main entrance is marked by the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse.

The greater Chicago Harbor encompasses a more extensive area, including portions of the Chicago River, the Calumet River, the Ogden Canal, the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, Lake Calumet, and Lake Michigan. Within this area are two municipal harbors, DuSable Harbor and Monroe Harbor, as well as the Chicago Yacht Club and the Columbia Yacht Club.

The Chicago Park District's municipal harbor system comprises the following harbors from north to south: Montrose Harbor, Belmont Harbor, Diversey Harbor, DuSable Harbor, Monroe Harbor, Burnham Harbor, 31st Street Harbor, 59th Street Harbor, and Jackson Park Inner and Outer Harbors. Each harbor provides a range of amenities and services for boaters, contributing to a vibrant boating community in Chicago.

Washington Marinas

Washington State is known for its breathtaking mountains and stunning ocean views, and its unique capital city makes it an unforgettable region to visit by boat. With over 100 marinas and numerous coves and harbours to explore, the Pacific Northwest offers a boating experience like no other.

The region is also known for its rainy winters, with tougher boating conditions between October and March. However, the weather can vary across the state, with the northern and southern parts of the coastline experiencing different weather patterns.

John Wayne Marina

A beautiful and clean marina gifted to Sequim by the John Wayne family. It offers a nice dining experience by the docks and is conveniently located close to supermarkets and restaurants.

Cape Sante Marina

This marina receives high praise for its professionalism and helpful staff.

Boyer Park & Marina

Boyer Park & Marina offers great accommodations that are consistently updated. The marina also has a nice local Bible church nearby.

Boston Harbor Marina

Boston Harbor Marina is a great place to stop for yummy ice cream, clean bathrooms, and a dog-friendly environment.

Deer Harbor Marina

Deer Harbor Marina offers an early start to the day with a smile. It has a gift shop, clean bathrooms, and plenty of dining options.

Jarrell's Cove Marina

This marina is a hidden gem, located off the beaten path and offering picture-perfect views. It has a seasonal store offering summer staples and a peaceful atmosphere.

Port of Everett Marina

The Port of Everett Marina offers a pleasant walk to see the many boats and enjoy the restaurants. It is a reasonably priced, full-service marina with plenty of parking and secured facilities, including showers and laundry.

Squalicum Harbor Marina

Squalicum Harbor Marina has something for everyone, featuring a large open field for flying kites, a playground, and a walking trail.

Des Moines Marina

Des Moines Marina provides a nice walking experience, with a lovely sunset to enjoy after dinner. It offers a variety of boats and serves as a great spot for capturing amazing photos.

Port Ludlow Marina

Port Ludlow Marina is a great spot to kayak to and offers a peaceful atmosphere with small inlets for dinghy exploration. The staff are friendly and accommodating, and there are clean restrooms and showers available.

These are just a few of the many wonderful marinas that Washington has to offer. Each marina provides a unique boating experience, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Northwest.

Southern Marine Enterprise

One of their unique selling points is their ability to stay within the client's budget while offering superior quality and services. They build state-of-the-art docks that are aesthetically pleasing, and their projects are built to last for generations. Their commitment to delivering exceptional work has made them a favourite among families and friends.

In addition to Georgia, there are other companies with similar names in Tennessee and Florida that also provide marine construction services. Southern Marine Construction Company in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has been in business for nearly 50 years, specialising in marine construction projects. Meanwhile, Southern Marine Construction in Miami, Florida, has served Dade County for nearly four decades and is the top choice for maritime construction projects in the area.

Frequently asked questions