How Much Does It Cost To Dock a Boat In Cleveland?

Written by Desiree Vilar in Cost of Sailing

Docking your boat in Cleveland provides access to a variety of attractions along the lakefront and Cuyahoga River. But with so many marinas and yacht clubs to choose from, how much does it actually cost to dock a boat in Cleveland? In this article, we'll explore the different factors that affect the cost of docking a boat in Cleveland and provide an overview of some of the most popular marinas in the area.

In Cleveland, docking fees for boats under 30 feet long start at $50 per day and $500 per month. For larger boats, docking fees are priced higher, starting at $1,000 to $2,000 per month. These costs do not yet include fees for electricity, water, insurance, permits, launch service, fuel, and maintenance costs.

The Whiskey Island Marina in Cleveland offers docking options for only $12.00 per foot per month. Let's see what other marinas offer in terms of affordable docking rates, their inclusions, and their set of pros and cons.

Summary

  • A permanent dock measuring 6 x 30 feet can cost around $5,400, while a floating dock of the same size costs around $3,600–$6,300.
  • When building a permanent dock, there are also ongoing maintenance costs that you need to take into account, such as repairs, painting, and cleaning.
  • A floating dock requires less maintenance than a permanent dock, but may not be as durable as permanent docks.
  • If you don't have a trailer or don't want to deal with the hassle of launching your boats yourself, some marinas offer launch services for just $10 to $20.
  • Hiring a professional for your boat repairs will add to the overall cost of docking your boat.

Cost Factors in Docking a Boat in Cleveland

Below is a table showing some of the key cost factors that you should keep in mind when planning to dock your boat, as well as their estimated costs:

Cost Factor Estimated Cost
Dockage and Marina Fees Boats under 30 feet: $50 per day and $500 per month
Large boats: $1,000 to $2,000 per month
Electricity $30 to $50 per month
Water services $20 to $30 per month
Insurance $500 to $1,000 per year
Permits $50 to $100 per year
Launch service $10 to $20 per launch
Fuel $3 to $4 per gallon
Maintenance Cleaning and detailing: $20 to $30 per hour
Repairs: $50 to $100 per hour

Consider the costs of docking in a marina

In Cleveland, docking fees for boats under 30 feet long start at $50 per day and $500 per month. However, the total fee can be much higher for larger boats.

Other factors that can affect the cost of docking at a marina include the type of dock (floating or fixed), the amenities offered (such as electricity, water, and Wi-Fi), and any additional services that may be available (such as fueling, pumping, or maintenance). There may also be added fees such as launch fees, parking fees, or security fees.

In addition to the cost of docking, you might also need to be aware of any regulations or rules that may be in place at the marina. Some marinas may require proof of insurance or registration and may have restrictions on the type of boat or equipment allowed on the dock.

Budget for electricity and water services

Many marinas offer these services for an additional fee. The cost can vary depending on the marina and the amount of electricity and water you use, but the estimated cost for electricity is between $30 and $50 per month, while water services may be included in the dockage fee or charged separately.

Some marinas may charge a flat fee for electricity and water services, while others may charge based on usage. You can inquire about these fees before selecting a marina to ensure that you are aware of all the costs associated with your stay.

Additionally, try to be mindful of your usage to avoid any unexpected charges. Many marinas offer metered electricity and water services, allowing you to monitor your usage and adjust accordingly.

Take into account insurance and permits costs

You'll need to have liability insurance to protect yourself and others in case of an accident or damage caused by the boat. The cost of insurance is based on the size and value of your boat.

In addition to insurance, boaters may also need to obtain permits to dock their boats in certain areas. These permits are typically required for marinas, harbors, and other designated docking areas. The cost of permits depends on the location and duration of your stay.

Include costs for launching your boat

Launch services are necessary for boat owners who don't have a trailer or don't want to deal with the hassle of launching their boats themselves. Launching a boat can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task, especially if you're not experienced with it. By using a launch service, you can save time and effort, and ensure that your boat is launched safely and correctly.

Launch services are typically offered by marinas, which have specialized equipment and personnel trained to safely launch boats. They have launch ramps, dock facilities, and other equipment that make it easy to get your boat into the water.

These services typically cost around $10 to $20 per launch, depending on the marina, which is a small price to pay for the convenience and peace of mind that comes with not having to launch your boat yourself.

In addition to this, many marinas also offer other services such as boat storage, fueling, and maintenance. This makes them a one-stop shop for all your boating needs. Some marinas may also offer seasonal launch packages that can save you money if you plan on launching your boat frequently.

Factor in fuel and maintenance costs

Some marinas offer fuel services, which can be very convenient if you need to refuel your boat before or after a day on the water. In Cleveland, the cost of gasoline for boats is typically higher than the cost of diesel fuel. The average price for gasoline is around $4.00 per gallon, while diesel fuel is around $3.50 per gallon.

Maintenance costs can also add up over time, especially if you have an older boat. Some marinas offer maintenance services, such as cleaning, detailing, and repairs. If you're handy with tools, you may be able to do some maintenance tasks yourself. However, if you need to hire a professional, the cost can add up quickly.

Types of Docking in Cleveland and Their Costs

There are two types of docking available in Cleveland: permanent and floating docking. Let's break down the costs of each of these types:

Type of docking Average cost per square foot installed Example cost for 6 x 30 feet
Permanent docking $15 - $60 $5,400
Floating docking $20 - $35 $3,600 - $6,300

Costs of permanent docking

Permanent docking is a great option if you have a larger boat or if you plan to dock your boat for an extended period. Permanent docks are typically made of wood or concrete and are built into the shoreline.

The average cost to build a permanent dock is between $15 and $60 per square foot installed. A permanent dock measuring 6 x 30 feet can cost around $5,400.

In addition to the initial construction costs, there are also ongoing maintenance costs associated with permanent docks. These costs can include repairs, painting, and cleaning, which you might need to factor in.

Costs of floating docking

Floating docks are a popular option for those who have smaller boats or who don't plan to dock their boat for an extended period. Floating docks are typically made of aluminum or plastic and are designed to float on the water's surface. The average cost to build a floating dock is between $20 and $35 per square foot installed.

One of the benefits of a floating dock is that it requires less maintenance than a permanent dock. However, floating docks may not be as durable as permanent docks and may require more frequent repairs.

Comparing Docking Fees at Different Marinas in Cleveland

In this section, we'll compare the docking fees at popular marinas in Cleveland:

Marina Name Docking Fee (per foot per month)
Lakeside Yacht Club $16.50
Edgewater Yacht Club $13.00
Cleveland Yachting Club $13.00
Whiskey Island Marina $12.00

Pros of docking at Lakeside Yacht Club

  • Ideal location behind the Cleveland break wall
  • Can access attractions along the Cleveland lakefront and Cuyahoga River in any weather
  • Average depth of approximately 18 feet

Cons of docking at Lakeside Yacht Club

  • More expensive than other marinas
  • Limited amenities compared to other marinas

Pros of docking at Edgewater Yacht Club

  • Has a pool, bar, and restaurant on site
  • Located in a beautiful park with views of the Cleveland skyline
  • Good value for the amenities offered

Cons of docking at Edgewater Yacht Club

  • Can be crowded during peak season
  • Can be difficult to navigate in and out of the marina due to the shallow water near the entrance

Pros of docking at Cleveland Yachting Club

  • Has a pool, bar, and restaurant on site
  • Located in a quiet, secluded area
  • Good value for the amenities offered

Cons of docking at Cleveland Yachting Club

  • Limited dock space available
  • Can be difficult to navigate in and out of the marina due to the shallow water near the entrance

Pros of docking at Whiskey Island Marina

  • Cheaper than other marinas
  • Located near a park with beach access
  • Offers fuel and pump-out services

Cons of docking at Whiskey Island Marina

  • Limited amenities compared to other marinas
  • Can be noisy due to nearby highway traffic

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