Slip considerations

[diungerich]

Right now I keep my boat at a storage place. Outdoor, but covered (under their building cover, I keep the boat covered). I'm kind of considering a slip, but likely only if I can find someone giving up theirs for a decent price. Not fired up about the full monthly cost.

So all that said, my question is on upkeep. I have a Glastron GT205 and we're talking about the DFW, TX area. So, I'm wondering what all really changes when it's kept in the water (maybe a lift if I'm really lucky) as opposed to on the trailer. What kinds of new things would I have to keep up with and what all different/additional maintenance or cost would I have to consider (other than twice the price on gas)?

 

[JoLin]

You need.. zincs, ant-fouling bottom paint, permanent cockpit and bow covers, a bilge pump with float switch, battery charger and electric service at the dock. You need to haul the boat periodically to remove bottom growth from the hull and drive. You need to pay increased attention to recommended annual outdrive service. Good dock lines. The boat needs to be well secured. If a big storm is in the forecast, you need to pull the boat out or add dock lines.

It's mostly about increased vigilance and being able to visit the boat often. I've slipped for years. It's awfully handy, but you need to keep a close eye on things.

My .02

 

[alldodge]

IMO the best way to keep a boat in the water is on a lift. Even if you do your own bottom painting it will cost less if it's on the lift.

 

[25thmustang]

JoLin did a great job explaining what changes. Also plan for better/more fenders than you probably have now. Check in floating verse fixed socks, if your tidal (it will change how you tie your boat off). When a storm hits, be prepared to go down before, sometimes during, and after to check on things. Other than that it makes using the boat a bit easier than when you trailer.

 

[SkaterRace]

I think JoLin covered pretty much everything, only thing I would add is consider getting a fuel caddy. Pretty much a big tank on wheels that has a hand pump. Will save you a ton in gas money.

 

[Grandad]

Check in floating verse fixed socks, if your tidal (it will change how you tie your boat off). When a storm hits, be prepared to go down before, sometimes during, and after to check on things.

I'd like to second this comment. My boat sank once, before I owned it, while stored in a slip on Lake Erie. A storm sucked significant water out of the marina, lowering the boat such that the gunnel hooked under the pier when water levels reversed after the storm passed. The bilge pump couldn't keep up. - Grandad