More time cruising, fishing, and exploring. Less time towing, queuing at the boat ramp, and finding somewhere to park the trailer. It’s easy to see the appeal of dry stack storage!
With your boat stored out of the water in a purpose-built dry stack, the marina team handles launching and retrieval. You book ahead, arrive at the marina, and head out to enjoy your day.
But before you swap the driveway for a dry stack berth, there’s one question to answer: is it the right option for your vessel size?
The answer comes down to your boat’s dimensions, weight and design, along with how you like to use it.
What size boats can use dry stack?
From compact runabouts to larger recreational boats, dry stack storage opens up a world of easier boating for a wide range of vessels.
Across Southeast Queensland, Pelican Waters, Scarborough, East Coast, Pacific Point and Runaway Bay marinas each offer dry stack storage for boats up to 10 metres in length, giving owners plenty of scope to find a convenient base for their next day on the water.
Your preferred marina can talk you through the options for your vessel’s full dimensions, weight and design, helping you find the right fit – and take the next step towards less time at the boat ramp and more time on the water.
Which boat types are worth considering?
Runabouts, bowriders, centre consoles, pontoon cruisers and sports fishing boats can all be a great match for dry stack storage, bringing added convenience to get out on the water. For families, that could mean a bowrider launched ahead of a day exploring the waterways. For keen anglers, a centre console waiting at the pontoon for their next fishing trip. And for weekend cruisers, a pontoon cruiser ready for adventure without taking up space in the driveway.
Cabin boats and larger recreational vessels can also enjoy the benefits, depending on the facility and the boat’s specifications. Suitability comes down to the vessel’s overall dimensions, weight and design.
Look beyond the number on the hull
Your boat’s model name or advertised hull length is only the beginning. A useful enquiry should include four measurements:
Overall length: Ask how the marina measures your boat, including any outboard, bow fittings or extended swim platform.
Beam: This is the boat’s width, which needs to suit the available storage space.
Height: Hardtops, windscreens, aerials and towers can affect clearance. Let the marina know which fittings are fixed and which can fold down.
Loaded weight: Supply the weight of the boat as it will actually be lifted, including engines, fuel, water, batteries and equipment.
Does dry stack suit your boating routine?
Your boat’s size and characteristics are only part of the decision. The launch arrangements should also work with the way you boat.
If you enjoy early fishing trips, ask how launches before operating hours are arranged. If sunset cruises are more your style, check the late-return process. It’s also worth confirming booking notice, peak-period availability, and how you access the boat for maintenance or loading gear.
Service inclusions vary, too. Ask whether launches, retrievals, washdowns and engine flushing are included in your quoted package.
Find the right fit for your vessel
Dry stack can make preparation and launching of a boat so much easier. The key is matching your vessel, and your routine, with a facility equipped to look after you.
Wondering where your boat could fit? Take Discover Boating Australia’s boat storage quiz to explore providers across South East Queensland, then speak with your preferred marina to confirm suitability and availability.