How to Choose a Boat Yard

Maintenance and repairs are necessary aspects of boat ownership. How to choose a boat yard will vary depending on your boating needs and the type of boat you own. When the time comes for you to choose a boat yard for your maintenance, whether you choose to do it yourself or if you hire someone to do it, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you are in an area with a bustling boating industry, chances are you will have plenty of boat yards to choose from. If not, finding a boat yard that has just what you need is going to make your maintenance experience as stress free as possible.

Find a Boat Yard with a Boat Repair Specialty

Some boat yards will have a focus, while others offer services across the board. Experts recommend finding a boat yard that has a specific focus, as this will help ensure that your boat will get the attention that it needs. Typically boat yards have mechanics that can fix most boat issues, so finding a boat yard with a focus isn’t crucial, but it does make a difference. If you boat engine takes diesel, but the yard you sent it to isn’t diesel-centric, your boat will get the help it needs, but it might not be done by someone who has the experience you’d like. It’s like going to a general practitioner when you have a heart problem. They can help you fix it, but you would rather a cardiologist help. Finding a boat yard with a specialty will help minimize your stress in this whole process.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Recommendations

If you have local boating friends, ask them what boat yard they use. While people have different standards and expectations, asking someone you trust can help you narrow down your options. If you do not have local boating friends, online boating forums are sometimes a good option to help weed out the not so good boat yards.

Check Your Warranty

If your boat is still under its warranty, take it to the dealership! Because dealerships have certain standards to uphold, they typically have the best trained staff, access to the most resources, and more. If you can send your boat to the dealership, do it.

A good way for learning how to choose a boat yard is to check out some local ones before your boat needs assistance. This will allow you to feel out the facilities, the mechanics, and overall make an opinion on whether or not you trust them.