Compare access, launching, maintenance, exposure and total cost before deciding whether the boat should stay afloat or ashore.
01 / THE METHOD
Compare how you use the boat
A wet berth generally supports faster spontaneous departures, while dry storage may require booking, launching equipment or staffed access. Record how often you sail, when you arrive and whether the facility can launch the boat during those hours.
02 / THE METHOD
Understand vessel and handling limits
Ask for maximum length, beam, weight and height for dry-stack racks, forklifts, cranes or ramps. For a wet berth, confirm pen dimensions, depth, fairway and shore connections. The better option is the one the facility can safely handle—not the category name.
03 / THE METHOD
Price the complete arrangement
Include launch and retrieval fees, wash-down, trailer or cradle storage, power, water, parking and out-of-hours access. Consider antifouling and underwater maintenance for a wet berth, and handling lead times or usage limits for dry storage.
04 / THE METHOD
Check exposure and responsibilities
Ask how each arrangement handles severe weather, fire, security, batteries, covers and owner access. Dry storage does not remove every weather or handling risk, and a wet berth is not automatically available during a warning.
ASK THE OPERATOR
Questions about wet berth vs dry storage
- What vessel dimensions and weight can the system handle?
- How much notice is required to launch or retrieve?
- What is included in the total annual cost?
- What access and severe-weather rules apply?
Record berth-specific answers and source dates
A blank field is useful when it becomes a precise question. Record who answered, when they answered and whether the reply applies to the exact berth, vessel and dates.
These questions support a shortlist, not a berth guarantee or navigation plan. Advice can be wrong; consult current official information and the site disclaimer.