How Much Does It Cost To Dock a Boat on Long Island?

Written by Desiree Vilar in Cost of Sailing Updated: July 07, 2023

Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful marinas in the country, offering a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and docking spots, at a cheap price. In this article, we'll provide you with an informative overview of the cost of docking a boat on Long Island to help it fit into your budget.

Transient docking fees can range from $2 to $4 per foot of boat length per day. However, dockage fees can vary from $1 to $12 per foot depending on the location, while mooring fees can range from $30 to $110. Additional fees may also apply for electricity, water supply, or other amenities provided.

Long Island has a wide range of marinas and boat slips available for every budget. Let's check out some of the most popular docking locations on Long Island as we dive into the article below.

Summary

  • The type of decking materials you choose for your boat can add to the cost of docking. While a deck made of wood is the most affordable option, it will require more maintenance than other materials, which can add up to the overall cost.
  • Docking your boat during peak season on Long Island, which typically runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, will set you up for higher docking fees. Consider docking your boat during the off-season to save money.
  • There are five hotspots for docking on Long Island: The Hamptons, Central Pine Barrens, Montauk Harbour, Oyster Bay, and Fire Island, and docking rates can vary from $1 to $12 per foot.

Cost Breakdown of Boat Docking in Long Island

On average, transient docking fees can range from $2 to $4 per foot of boat length per day. However, some marinas may have a minimum charge requirement regardless of the length of stay. Additional fees may also apply for electricity, water supply, or other amenities provided.

Dockage fees can also vary from $1 to $12 per foot, and depending on the location, mooring fees can range from $30 to $110. Long Island has a wide range of marinas and boat slips available for every budget. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious experience, there's availability at marinas for every type of boater.

Below is a breakdown of the costs of boat docking on Long Island and what you can expect to pay.

Item Cost Range
Renting a boat slip $50 per day to $500 per month (for boats under 30 feet)
Maintenance $1,000 to $5,000 per year
Electricity use $50 to $200 per month, depending on boat size and power needs
Insurance $300 to $1,000 per year

Cost of renting a boat slip

The cost of renting a boat slip on Long Island can vary depending on the location and size of the slip. Generally speaking, docking fees for boats under 30 feet long start at $50 per day and $500 per month.

The total fee depends on the boat's size, duration, and docking location. Most marinas charge slip rates in feet, so the bigger the vessel, the higher the docking costs. You may need to take note that some marinas may require a deposit or a reservation fee, so you must inquire about these costs upfront.

Cost of maintenance

Maintaining your boat dock ensures it lasts for years to come. This includes regular cleaning, repairs, and inspections. Depending on the type of dock you have, maintenance costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually.

A stationary dock made of concrete and pressure-treated lumber can cost $5,000 or more to maintain, while a floating dock made of PVC pipes and plywood decking may only cost a few hundred dollars. You can check out 4 examples of the average maintenance costs of sailboats in this article.

Some of the most basic must-have maintenance products for boaters can be found in this article.

Cost of electricity use

If you plan on using electricity at your boat slip, you'll need to factor in the cost of electrical service. Most marinas charge a monthly fee for electricity, which can range from $50 to $200 depending on the size of your boat and the amount of power you need.

Cost of insurance

Boat insurance is a must-have for any boat owner, and the cost can vary depending on the type of boat you have and the amount of coverage you need. In addition to boat insurance, you may also want to consider liability insurance to protect yourself in case of an accident.

The cost of boat insurance can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually, depending on the type of boat you have and the amount of coverage you need.

Factors Influencing Docking Costs in Long Island

The size of your boat can impact your docking costs

Generally, larger boats require more space and resources, which translates into higher docking fees. Most marinas charge slip rates in feet, so the bigger the vessel, the higher the docking costs. A 30-foot boat might cost around $50 per day to dock, while a 50-foot boat could cost $100 or more.

The timing of docking can also have a significant impact on the cost

The time of year that you choose to dock your boat can also have a significant impact on the cost. Peak boating season on Long Island typically runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, during which time docking fees are generally higher. If you choose to dock your boat during the off-season, you may be able to save money on docking fees.

The location of docking plays a significant role in determining the cost

Docking fees are generally higher in popular tourist destinations and major cities. Docking your boat in the Hamptons or Montauk might be more expensive than docking it in a less popular location.

The amenities available at the marina can also impact the cost

This means if you require access to electricity, water, or other amenities, you may need to pay extra fees. Some marinas also offer additional services like boat cleaning and maintenance, which can add to the overall cost.

Additional Costs to Consider when Docking Your Boat on Long Island

These costs can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Additional budget for a boat lift

If you have a larger boat or plan to keep your boat in the water for an extended period, you may want to consider investing in a boat lift. A boat lift can help protect your boat from damage caused by waves, tides, and other environmental factors.

The cost of a boat lift can vary depending on the size of your boat and the type of lift you choose. The average cost of a boat lift installation can range from $5,000 to $10,000.

The type of decking materials you choose can add to the cost of docking

The type of decking materials you choose can also impact the cost of docking your boat. Some popular decking materials include wood, composite, and PVC. Wood is the most affordable option, but it requires more maintenance than other materials.

Composite and PVC are more expensive upfront but require less maintenance over time. The average cost of decking materials can range from $20 to $35 per square foot.

It's also worth noting that some marinas may have restrictions on the type of decking materials you can use, so you may need to check with your marina before making any decisions.

The Hamptons is a popular destination for boaters on Long Island

Some of the most popular marinas in The Hamptons include Sag Harbor Yacht Club and East Hampton Point Marina. Below is a table summarizing the docking rate per foot for each marina mentioned:

Marina Name Docking Rate per Foot
Sag Harbor Yacht Club $6.00
East Hampton Point Marina $7.00

Port Jefferson offers easy access to nearby attractions

Port Jefferson is a charming waterfront village located on the North Shore of Long Island. It's a popular destination for boaters due to its proximity to the Long Island Sound and its many amenities, including restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks.

The village has a number of marinas that offer docking services, including the Port Jefferson Marina and the Danfords Hotel & Marina. The docking rate per foot at these marinas varies depending on the season and the amenities offered. Below is a table summarizing the docking rate per foot for each marina mentioned:

Marina Name Docking Rate per Foot/Day
Port Jefferson Marina $4.50 - $6.00
Danfords Hotel & Marina $6.25 - $8.25 (base weekday rate)

Montauk Harbor offers a laid-back atmosphere for boat docking

Montauk Harbor is located on the eastern tip of Long Island and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and world-class fishing opportunities.

The harbor has several marinas that offer docking services, including the Montauk Marine Basin and the Star Island Yacht Club. The docking rate per foot at these marinas can vary depending on the season and the amenities offered, but generally ranges from $4 to $6 per foot per night.

Marina Name Docking Rate per Foot
Montauk Marine Basin $2 - $3.50
Star Island Yacht Club $4.75 - $6.50

Oyster Bay is a great, peaceful docking place on Long Island

There are several marinas in the area, including Oyster Bay Marine Center and Sagamore Yacht Club, whose docking rates are summarized below:

Marina Name Docking Rate per Foot
Oyster Bay Marine Center $4.50
Sagamore Yacht Club $4.00

Fire Island is a good docking spot in Long Island

Some of the most popular marinas in Fire Island include Watch Hill Marina and Sailors Haven Marina. The cost of docking your boat on Fire Island can be found below:

Marina Name Docking Rate per Foot
Watch Hill Marina $4.00
Sailors Haven Marina $3.50

Cost-Saving Tips for Boat Docking in Long Island

Here are ways to save money while still enjoying the perks of owning a boat:

Choose a less expensive marina

Some marinas charge exorbitant fees, while others offer more affordable rates.

You might want to do a bit of research and compare prices before choosing a marina. You may find that a less expensive marina is just as good as a more expensive one.

Dock your boat during the off-season

The cost of docking your boat can be significantly lower during the off-season. If you're not planning on using your boat during the winter months, consider docking it during this time. You'll save money on docking fees and may even be able to negotiate a better rate.

Share a dock with another boat owner

If you know another boat owner who is looking to save money on docking fees, try to consider sharing a dock. Splitting the cost of docking can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the perks of owning a boat.

Maintain your boat regularly

Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the line. By keeping your boat in good condition, you'll save money on repairs and may even extend the life of your boat.

You need to make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and keep your boat clean and well-maintained.

Keep an eye on your budget

It's easy to overspend when it comes to owning a boat, but make a budget and try sticking to it. Keep track of your expenses and look for ways to save money.

For example, you may be able to save money on fuel by using a fuel card or by shopping around for the best prices.


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