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Use this as a research brief, not a final answer. The ranges, fees, and rules below reflect how wet slip basics typically work across the U.S., but every marina sets its own policy. Verify the specifics in writing with the dockmaster before you put money down.
A wet slip is a specific berth in a marina where your boat stays in the water between trips, secured to a dock with cleats, pilings, and dock lines. Renting a wet slip is renting that water space — not the boat itself, the dock, or the parking.
Wet slips come in three formats: finger slips (boat between two parallel fingers), end-ties (along a T-head), and side-ties (alongside a long bulkhead). Finger slips dominate; end-ties and side-ties suit larger or wide-beam boats.
What's included varies. Most slip rents include the slip itself, fresh water, basic dock access, parking, and access to restrooms/showers. Electricity is almost always metered or billed separately. Pump-out, fuel, ice, and laundry are typically pay-per-use.
Slip contracts spell out responsibilities: insurance minimums, hurricane plans, dock-line standards, and rules about overnight guests or pets. Read the agreement carefully — these clauses matter when something goes wrong.
What renting a slip includes
- • Berth (water space)
- • Fresh water hookup
- • Parking
- • Restroom/shower access
- • Dockmaster service
Usually extra
- • Electricity (metered)
- • Pump-out service
- • Fuel
- • Ice
- • Laundry