Designing a dock for your marina can be challenging. You’ll need to consider several factors, including the type and number of watercraft that will use the dock, choosing the best materials and ensuring the safety of boaters and their passengers. Durability, maintenance and flexibility are also important from an owner’s perspective.
Determining Your Marina’s Size and Needs
Vessel size and docking requirements vary based on the type of watercraft and will impact your dock design. For example, if your marina will accommodate megayachts, you’ll need to create adequate space for side-tying. The extra width of catamarans can prevent them from fitting in standard slips, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. In contrast, if you operate an inland freshwater marina, your design should include slips for smaller boats.
What Features Should a Marina Dock Have?
A dock can include numerous features that optimize functionality and safety for boaters and marina employees. Boat lifts and launches make it easier to move smaller boats in and out of the water and maximize accessibility. Add-ons like gangways, railings and anchoring systems also improve the user experience and enable them to navigate the dock area safely. High-quality lighting is also essential, especially during nighttime and low-visibility conditions.
Aesthetics are important. Attractive dock solutions make users feel comfortable and welcome, helping you establish and retain a thriving customer base. Integrating weather-resistant materials into your dock design can help you maintain your marina’s appearance while maximizing durability and lowering maintenance costs.
How Many Boat Ports Do You Need?
The number of boat ports you should have at your marina docks depends on the size, type and volume of vessels you need to accommodate. EZ Dock offers the EZ BoatPort in multiple sizes that can handle watercraft weighing up to 5,000 pounds. You can purchase a few modular docks of each size or several to provide the best solution for skiffs, fishing boats, jet skis and other watercraft.
Accessories to Include With Your Dock Design
EZ Dock offers an assortment of accessories for floating dock systems to optimize functionality and safety. Examples include:
- Tie-up cleats
- Corner storage boxes
- Dock bumpers
- BoatPort air-assist pumps
- Benches
- Ladders
- Slides
Contact EZ Dock for More Marina Dock Design Ideas
As a leading provider of modular floating dock systems, EZ Dock can offer valuable insight into the design and construction of your marina dock. Contact us for more information about our products and services today.
