From the dockmaster's desk
If you called five marinas about marina reservations, you'd get five different answers — not because anyone is hiding the truth, but because every harbor runs on its own contracts, depths, and storm policies. This page is the version we wish every dockmaster had time to give a first-time caller.
Marina reservations work very differently for transient (overnight) and annual slips. Transient operates like a hotel; annual operates like a waitlisted apartment lease.
Transient slips book through Dockwa, marina websites, or phone. Lead time ranges from same-day in low season to 365 days at top destinations. Holiday weekends and major events (boat shows, regattas) fill first.
Annual slips at desirable marinas operate on waitlists — 6 months to 24 months is common in San Diego, Sausalito, South Florida, and Boston. Some marinas charge a nominal waitlist fee ($25–$100) and require an annual renewal of intent.
Cancellation rules tighten in season. Expect 7–14 day cancellation windows on summer transients, non-refundable holiday deposits, and no-show fees equal to one night's stay. Off-season is more forgiving.
Transient booking
- • Dockwa app
- • Marina website
- • Phone direct
- • Captain network
- • Cruising-club referrals
Annual slip waitlists
- • San Diego: 6–24 mo
- • Sausalito: 5–20 yr
- • Annapolis: 6–18 mo
- • South FL: 6–24 mo
- • Boston: 12–36 mo