Dock Storage Ideas to Save Space on a Small Marina
Whether you have a dock at your vacation home or operate a small marina for water vessels, the last thing you want is for someone to trip over something left lying on the dock and fall. Falling onto the dock could cause serious injury, but falling into the water could be a far more severe incident, especially if the individual doesn’t know how to swim.
Luckily, you can avoid any issues with clutter on your dock by considering different dock storage solutions. Read on to discover some dock storage ideas to see how you can improve your deck storage (and dock safety) today!
Dock Box for Storage
All watercraft owners should invest in a dock box (or two). Dock boxes allow boaters to store their items on the deck safely. Made from marine-grade materials like fiberglass or heavy-duty plastic, they are durable, reliable, and sturdy. High-quality stainless steel hinges and latches give the box extra durability and security.
You can use dock boxes in freshwater or saltwater and on various dock systems, including stationary and floating docks.
Dock boxes securely sit on the dockside and come in various designs and sizes to fit different needs. They also range in price and additional features, ensuring there is a storage solution for everyone.
Several dock box brands stand out in terms of durability, functionality, and quality. A dock expert can help you choose the right brand (and dock box style) for your needs.
Speaking of dock box styles, here are four main styles to consider purchasing.
Standard Dock Box
A standard dock storage box is a rectangular box that offers storage for all the essential supplies needed on a dock, such as:
- Beach towels
- Cleaning products
- Brushes and brush handles
- Buckets
- Shining solutions
- Shop towels and sham wows
- Wet/dry vacuum
- Dock lines
- Extension cords
- Fishing gear
- Hoses
- Life jackets
Standard dock boxes are versatile; they can fit in different dock spaces.
Triangular Dock Box
Maximize storage by making use of the corner spaces on your dock. With limited space in these areas, a triangular dock box is best. You can still store many essential items in a triangular dock box without eating away other precious areas of dock space.
Low-Profile Dock Box
The low-profile dock box is for you if you have a narrow dock. It’s longer than a traditional dock box and has a lower height to offer a more compact solution.
Seat-Top Dock Box
Seat-top dock boxes offer both storage and seating. They are ideal for those who want to maximize functionality in a small space. These dock boxes are great for storing smaller dock accessories.
Specialty dock boxes are also available for those needing something more customizable. Investing in a dock box that isn’t the right shape or doesn’t have enough storage isn’t going to help. Sometimes, what you need is a custom solution. With a specialty box, you can have all the storage you need with the convenience of the seat-top design.
Dock Floats: Accessories to Help Optimize Space
While dock boxes provide many storage options, you can buy other dock accessories to enhance functionality.
For instance, you may consider using a dock cart. Dock carts allow you to move heavy items along the dock safely and efficiently. If you have a lot of heavy equipment, like kayaks, paddleboards, or surfboards, installing a sup rack on the dock is one of the best ways to increase storage space.
You can also buy accessories to enhance safety. Bumpers (or fenders) to prevent damage to your dock box or watercraft. The protective barrier and cushioning are essential during docking.
Additionally, floats help keep your dock box secure and afloat in the water. Your items will remain safe and dry regardless of the conditions. Many dock boxes even have a lockable feature to prevent theft.
Lastly, don’t forget to invest in dock lighting. Sure, you can have all items securely in place, so no one trips over them. But without lighting, it’s easy to run into the dock box and fall while walking at night.
Tips to Help You Save Space on a Small Marina
Although boat dock storage ideas can help save space, there are a few more tips you can try. Our top three tips are below.
Declutter & Organize
Before investing in any storage items, take stock of all your belongings. Is it time to toss those damaged water skis you’ll never repair? Do you need 50 life vests on the dock, or could you store some on land?
Remove items you don’t need, then organize the remaining items by category. This will help you know what you have and what you’re missing.
If you need further help organizing and decluttering your dock, plenty of useful tips are available.
Utilize Vertical Space
Most people forget about using vertical space. Because docks are narrow, far more vertical space is available than dock space.
Installing a kayak storage rack is one easy way to maximize vertical space. Despite its name, you can use these racks for many other uses, increasing their functionality.
Custom Design Your Storage Solutions
When in doubt, consider custom dock storage solutions.
Perhaps you have a hammock on your dock and need to find a unique storage solution for when it’s not in use. Or, if you have a lot of water sports gear, you may need to invest in a custom kayak dock that holds all the gear in one place.
Should your marina have too many boats docking at it, causing congestion, boat lifts would be a great solution. This way, all the boats can dock without collision as the lifts securely raise each boat out of the water. The boats will sit on the lift over the water until their next use.
Whatever storage issue your dock faces, a custom solution is always readily available.
In addition to dock storage, also consider your boat storage solutions. If you don’t have the space to store something on the dock, you can likely find a solution to keep the item on the boat instead.
Dock Storage Ideas for Your Marina
To have a safe dock free from clutter, consider one of this article's many dock storage ideas.
You can also explore the dock accessories we offer at Haven Dock & Marine. Then, when you’re ready to checkout and make a purchase, find a local dealer! If you can’t find the storage solution you’re looking for, call us to discuss custom options. We guarantee we have a solution that will meet your dock’s needs.