Boat Docking Options At Bay Town Wharf

Boat docking procedures vary depending on the location of the bay town wharf. For example, in Mattapoisett Town Wharf, boaters can find tie-up space and amenities at the historic wharves, while in Sag Harbor, the Harbormaster's Office manages and collects dockage fees for transient and seasonal dockage and moorings. In Washington, DC, The Wharf Marina offers day docks with hourly dockage rates on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, yacht clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area may provide docking for out-of-town boats, and Boston Harbor has several marinas with docking and mooring availability for visitors.

Docking fees and rules

Location

The location of the marina will impact the docking fees. Marinas located in high-demand areas or with many boaters coming and going will typically be more expensive than those in less popular areas. For example, docking fees in Florida can range from $7 to $12 per foot per month, while in Singapore, they may be as high as $18 per foot per month.

Boat Size

The size of your boat is another crucial factor in determining docking fees. Larger boats will generally cost more to dock than smaller ones. For instance, a 25-foot boat in Glen Burnie, Maryland, could cost around $2500 in the winter and up to $4000 in the summer.

Services and Amenities

The services and amenities offered at the marina will also affect the docking fees. Marinas with more amenities, such as maintenance staff, restaurants, and picnic areas, will typically charge higher fees. For example, at Baytowne Marina in Florida, the daily rate is $5 per foot per day, the weekly rate is $25 per foot, and the monthly rate is $40 per foot, plus tax. These rates include access to various services and amenities.

Dock Type

It's important to distinguish between a "boat slip" and a "boat dock." A boat slip is an enclosed space in a marina where a boat can be kept, while a boat dock is open on three sides and allows boats to dock along a strip of land. Boat slips are generally more expensive than boat docks.

Mooring Options

There are alternative mooring options available besides boat slips and docks. Some boats can be tied to a "mooring buoy," a large, sunken weight that acts as an anchor, typically provided by the marina. Smaller boats can also be stored in a rack storage system, where the marina uses a forklift to place the boat in the water when requested by the owner. These options may be more cost-effective but may not offer the same level of convenience as a boat slip or dock.

Additional Fees and Considerations

When budgeting for docking fees, it's essential to consider other potential expenses. These may include boat maintenance, insurance, utility fees (for water, sewage, and electricity), and liveaboard fees for boaters who live on their vessels. It's also worth noting that docking during the busy season will likely be more expensive than during the off-season.

In summary, docking fees and rules can vary significantly depending on the location, boat size, type of dock or marina, and the services and amenities offered. It's essential to research and compare different options to find the best value for your specific needs.

Wharf amenities

The Baytowne Wharf Marina in Sandestin, Florida, is a full-service marina that offers a wide range of amenities and services for boat owners and enthusiasts. With 210 slips, the marina can accommodate vessels of various sizes, up to 140 feet in length, on a daily, weekly, or yearly basis.

One of the standout features of Baytowne Wharf Marina is its personal marina concierge service. The staff can assist with a range of arrangements, from tee times and restaurant reservations to tram services and golf cart rentals. Marina guests also have exclusive access to certain amenities, such as golf cart rentals, adding a touch of luxury and convenience to their experience.

In terms of watercraft, Baytowne Wharf Marina offers a diverse selection. Visitors can charter or rent various boats, including light tackle fishing charters, pontoon boats, Wave Runners, and YOLO SUP boards. The marina also provides fishing gear, such as lures, hooks, and poles, for those looking to try their luck on the water.

For those who prefer to explore the water in other ways, the marina offers a range of watersports activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and boogie boarding. These activities are available with complimentary one-hour daily rentals for guests who book their stay directly with Sandestin.

Additionally, Baytowne Wharf Marina is part of Florida's Clean Marina Program and has achieved Clean Marina status. This demonstrates the marina's commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible practices, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the water while minimizing their impact on the natural environment.

Another example of a wharf offering amenities is The Wharf Marina in Washington, DC. It provides 400 feet of side-tie hourly dockage on a first-come, first-served basis. The wharf serves as a launchpad for various water activities, including leisure cruises, kayak tours, sailing lessons, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also take advantage of the water taxi service, providing easy access to nearby destinations such as Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor.

Docking for out-of-town boats

If you're an out-of-town visitor looking to dock your boat, there are several options available, depending on your location. Here are some tips and instructions for finding the right docking facility and ensuring a smooth process.

Marina Options:

• The Wharf Marina in Washington, DC: The Wharf Marina offers 400 feet of side-tie hourly dockage on a first-come, first-served basis. Their rates vary depending on the length of your boat and the day of the week, with prices ranging from $30 to $50 for up to four hours of docking. The docks are staffed for new arrivals every day from 10 am to 10 pm between April and November. Be sure to check in with their staff upon arrival and note that rafting up and commercial vessels are prohibited.
• Marina Village in Alameda: This marina accommodates out-of-town boats, and the harbormaster, Alan Weaver, is known for his efforts to accommodate visitors. They offer a monthly rate for longer stays, and the rate for a week or less depends on the size of your boat. Alameda is a yachting-oriented area with numerous sailmakers and other yachting businesses. The weather is typically pleasant, but it is within an estuary, so it may be a longer sail to certain destinations.
• South Beach Harbor: Located near the ballpark, this marina offers convenient access to restaurants and stores. The cost is approximately $1.25 per foot, with a maximum stay of two weeks. If you need to stay longer, you can try negotiating with the harbor master.
• Pier 39 Marina: This marina is in the heart of San Francisco's tourist zone and is a popular choice for visitors. There are plenty of attractions within walking distance. However, keep in mind that it is also home to famous sea lions, which may cause some odor concerns.
• Baytowne Marina in Sandestin, Florida: This full-service marina can accommodate vessels up to 140 feet on a daily, weekly, or yearly basis. They offer personal marina concierge services, and marina guests have exclusive access to golf cart rentals. Their short-term dockage rates are $5 per foot per day, $25 per foot per week, and $40 per foot per month, all plus tax. 90% of the slips are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yacht Club Options:

If you are a member of a yacht club, you may have reciprocal privileges at other clubs in the area. Here are some options:

• St. Francis Yacht Club: They have invited boats to dock for a short time before specific races and may offer guest access.
• Corinthian Yacht Club
• San Francisco Yacht Club
• Golden Gate Yacht Club

Additional Tips:

• Boston Harbor Marinas: If you're heading to Boston, there are 21 marinas with dock and mooring availability. Pricing starts at $2.25 per foot for slips and $25 for moorings. The best time to visit Boston by boat is between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when the weather is warm and sunny.
• Plan Ahead: It's always a good idea to plan your docking in advance, especially if you have specific requirements or need accommodations for an extended period. Contact the marinas or yacht clubs directly to inquire about availability and any special instructions or restrictions they may have.

Boat launching and storage

Mattapoisett Town Wharf, MA

Mattapoisett Town Wharf in Massachusetts offers a public boat ramp, providing access to Mattapoisett Harbor and Buzzards Bay. The wharf consists of five publicly accessible wharves: Mello Wharf, Middle (Makuch) Wharf, Long (Brownell) Wharf, Holmes Wharf, and Barstow Wharf. Local boaters can purchase a wharf slip or dinghy storage to keep their boats at the wharf for the summer, although there is a waitlist. Temporary tie-up spaces are available at Mello Wharf, Middle Wharf, and Barstow Wharf for short-term docking. Long Wharf offers diesel fuel and a pump-out station. The town also offers two transient moorings available for rent by contacting the harbormaster.

Sag Harbor, NY

The Harbormaster's Office in Sag Harbor regulates and manages the waterways of the village, offering both seasonal and transient dockage and moorings. The boating season runs from April 1st to October 31st, and reservations can be made through DOCKWA. Free pump-out service is provided, along with power supply options, heads, and showers for guests. Potable water is also provided for vessels in the mooring field.

The Wharf DC, Washington

The Wharf Marina in Washington, DC, offers 400 feet of side-tie hourly dockage on a first-come, first-served basis. The rates vary depending on the length of the boat and the day of the week, with higher rates on weekends and holidays. The docks are staffed for new arrivals from 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week, from April to November.

Boston Harbor, MA

Boston Harbor, located in downtown Boston, offers docks and moorings just minutes away from attractions like the North End and the Freedom Trail. Pricing for slips starts at $2.25 per foot, and $25 for moorings. The best time to visit Boston by boat is between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when the weather is warm and sunny.

SF Bay Area, CA

The SF Bay Area in California offers various options for docking out-of-town boats, including yacht clubs and marinas. Some popular locations include Marina Village in Alameda, South Beach Harbor, Pier 39 Marina, and Clipper Yacht Harbor in Sausalito. Each location has its own unique features, amenities, and proximity to attractions.

Nearby attractions

The Village of Baytowne Wharf, located in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, is a charming and lively waterfront destination nestled along the picturesque shores of Choctawhatchee Bay in Northwest Florida. This vibrant village offers a multitude of attractions and entertainment options for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit locale for locals and tourists alike.

For those seeking culinary delights, Baytowne Wharf is a food lover's paradise. It boasts an array of dining options, ranging from savory seafood restaurants to international cuisine and waterfront dining experiences. Popular eateries include Acme Oyster House, Hammerhead's Bar & Grille, Marlin Grill, and Osaka Sushi Rocks, among others. The village also hosts the annual Sandestin Wine Festival, attracting wine enthusiasts with its tastings, seminars, and exquisite food pairings.

Beyond its culinary offerings, Baytowne Wharf is renowned for its diverse shopping experiences. The village's quaint cobblestone streets are lined with dozens of unique shops and boutiques, offering everything from fashionable apparel and local artwork to souvenirs and pet supplies. Whether you're seeking trendy beachwear or one-of-a-kind treasures, Baytowne Wharf has something for every taste and budget.

For families visiting Baytowne Wharf, there is no shortage of fun and excitement. The Adventure Zone provides thrilling activities such as a zip line, tower climb, games, and an arcade. The village also features an enclosed, nautical-themed Adventure Land Playground, perfect for children to safely climb, swing, and play. Additionally, the Baytowne Carousel adds a touch of whimsy with its colorful menagerie of horses, zebras, dragons, and reindeer.

Baytowne Wharf truly comes alive during the spring and summer months, with a calendar packed full of captivating events and festivals. From live concerts and outdoor movie nights to weekly fireworks displays and cultural celebrations, there is always something exceptional to experience. The village also hosts seasonal events like the Baytowne Beer Fest and the Baytowne Wharf Art Walk, showcasing the talents of local artists.

With its combination of scenic beauty, exceptional shopping, delicious dining, and endless entertainment options, Baytowne Wharf is the epitome of coastal charm. Whether you're seeking relaxation, family fun, or a vibrant nightlife, Baytowne Wharf has something for everyone.

Frequently asked questions