The choice of a marina is an important one. It is your boating home. As such, you want to select it with care. But with so many marinas from which to chose, what exactly should you be looking for?

1. General Appearance
This is a good place to start. Does the marina appear to be clean and well maintained? Are docks and parking areas well lit and free of clutter? Are cleats free of rust and securely fastened to the dock? Are the wiring and fixtures in good condition? Is appropriate signage in place? Is the area free of fuel spills?

2. Security Precautions
Are there adequate security precautions? Some marinas have coded entry gates and/or uniformed guards. There may also be surveillance cameras or other types of crime deterrents on the premises.

3. Fire Protective Measures
Are there sufficient fire protective measures such as stand pipes or fire extinguishers?

4. Dockside Connections
Are there dockside connections for electricity, telephone, Internet and television? What about wash down water? Although these amenities are not offered by every marina, they're mighty nice to have.

5. Fuel Dock
This one's another nice-to-have. It saves you having to bring your own fuel or motoring to another marina to fill your tanks.

6. Boat Repair Facilities
Boat maintenance is just easier to take care of with on-site facilities. If the marina you're considering doesn't have them, be sure to find out where the nearest repair and maintenance facilities are.

7. State of the Neighborhood
Is the marina in a good location – i.e., one that is likely to be relatively free of crime?

8. The Bottom Line
Typically, marinas charge a yearly docking fee. Prices vary considerably and are generally based on the length of your boat and the length of your slip, so request quotes from multiple marinas. Compare not only the yearly cost, but also what is included for that fee. (Some marinas have boat "hotels,' which is yet another price point.)

Finally, talk to people who keep their boats at the marinas you're considering. How happy are they with the marina, the amenities, the service department, etc? Is crime a problem? Armed with the facts, you should be ready to make an informed choice.

- Linda Hoff